bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of biodegradable Zn-Mn-Li and CaP coatings on Zn-Mn-Li alloys and cytocompatibility evaluation for bone graft
Authors: Qiang Hui-Fen , Lv Zhao-Yong , Hou Cai-Yao , Luo Xin , Li Jun , Liu Kun , Meng Chun-Xiu , Du Wan-Qing , Zhang Yu-Jue , Chen Xi-Meng , Liu Feng-Zhen
Published: September 2022

Zn-based alloys are considered as new kind of potential biodegradable implanted biomaterials recently. The difficulty of metal implanted biomaterials and bone tissue integration seriously affects the applications of metal implanted scaffolds in bone tissue-related fields. Herein, we self-designed Zn0.8Mn and Zn0.8Mn0.1Li alloys and CaP coated Zn0.8Mn and Zn0.8Mn0.1Li alloys, then evaluated the degradation property and cytocompatibility. The results demonstrated that the Zn0.8Mn0.1Li alloys had profoundly modified the degradation property and cytocompatibility, but Zn0.8Mn0.1Li alloys had particularly adverse effects on the surface morphology of osteoblasts. The results furtherly showed that the CaP-coated Zn0.8Mn and Zn0.8Mn0.1Li alloys scaffold had better biocompatibility, which would further guarantee the biosafety of this new kind of biodegradable Zn-based alloys implants for future clinical applications.
In vivo evaluation of osseointegration ability of sintered bionic trabecular porous titanium alloy as artificial hip prosthesis
Authors: Bai Xiaowei , Li Ji , Zhao Zhidong , Wang Qi , Lv Ningyu , Wang Yuxing , Gao Huayi , Guo Zheng , Li Zhongli
Published: September 2022

Hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings have been widely used for improving the bone-implant interface (BII) bonding of the artificial joint prostheses. However, the incidence of prosthetic revisions due to aseptic loosening remains high. Porous materials, including three-dimensional (3D) printing, can reduce the elastic modulus and improve osseointegration at the BII. In our previous study, we identified a porous material with a sintered bionic trabecular structure within vitroandin vivobio-safety as well asin vivomechanical safety. This study aimed to compare the difference in osseointegration ability of the different porous materials and HA-coated titanium alloy in the BII. We fabricated sintered bionic trabecular porous titanium acetabular cups, 3D-printed porous titanium acetabular cups, and HA-coated titanium alloy acetabular cups for producing a hip prosthesis suitable for beagle dogs. Subsequently, the imaging and histomorphological analysis of the three materials under mechanical loading in animals was performed (at months 1, 3, and 6). The results suggested that both sintered bionic porous titanium alloy and 3D-printed titanium alloy exhibited superior performances in promoting osseointegration at the BII than the HA-coated titanium alloy. In particular, the sintered bionic porous titanium alloy exhibited a favorable bone ingrowth performance at an early stage (month 1). A comparison of the two porous titanium alloys suggested that the sintered bionic porous titanium alloys exhibit superior bone in growth properties and osseointegration ability. Overall, our findings provide an experimental basis for the clinical application of sintered bionic trabecular porous titanium alloys.
Developing a fluorometric urease activity microplate assay suitable for automated microbioreactor experiments
Authors: Lapierre Frédéric M. , Bolz Isabel , Büchs Jochen , Huber Robert
Published: September 2022

Quantifying urease activity is an important task for Microbial Induced Calcite Precipitation research. A new urease activity microplate assay using a fluorescent pH indicator is presented. The method is also suitable for automated measurements during microbioreactor experiments. The assay reagent consists of the green fluorescent pH-indicator fluorescein, urea and a phosphate buffer. After sample addition, the microbial urease hydrolyses urea, which results in a pH and hence fluorescence increase. The fluorescence signal can be measured with a microplate reader or with the microbioreactor system BioLector, allowing for automated urease activity measurements during cultivation experiments. In both measurement systems, the fluorescence signal slope highly correlates with the urease activity measured offline with standard methods. Automated measurement is possible, as no sample preparation such as centrifugation or adjusting of the optical density is required. The assay was developed so that the culture samples turbidity, salinity or buffer concentration does not have a negative impact on the fluorescence signal. The assay allows for straightforward, non-hazardous, parallelized, cheap and reliable measurements, making research on ureolytic bacteria for Microbial Induced Calcite Precipitation more efficient. The assay could be adapted to other enzymes, which have a strong impact on the pH value.
Retinal organoids and microfluidic chip-based approaches to explore the retinitis pigmentosa with USH2A mutations
Authors: Su Ting , Liang Liying , Zhang Lan , Wang Jianing , Chen Luyin , Su Caiying , Cao Jixing , Yu Quan , Deng Shuai , Chan Hon Fai , Tang Shibo , Guo Yonglong , Chen Jiansu
Published: September 2022

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness worldwide, with limited medical treatment options. USH2A mutations are one of the most common causes of non-syndromic RP. In this study, we developed retinal organoids (ROs) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of RP patient to establish a sustainable in vitro RP disease model. RT-qPCR, western blot, and immunofluorescent staining assessments showed that USH2A mutations induced apoptosis of iPSCs and ROs, and deficiency of the extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Transcriptomics and proteomics findings suggested that abnormal ECM-receptor interactions could result in apoptosis of ROs with USH2A mutations via the PI3K-Akt pathway. To optimize the culture conditions of ROs, we fabricated a microfluidic chip to co-culture the ROs with RPE cells. Our results showed that this perfusion system could efficiently improve the survival rate of ROs. Further, ECM components such as laminin and collagen IV of ROs in the RP group were upregulated compared with those maintained in static culture. These findings illustrate the potential of microfluidic chip combined with ROs technology in disease modelling for RP.
Identification of key genes through the constructed CRISPR-dcas9 to facilitate the efficient production of O-acetylhomoserine in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Li Ning , Shan Xiaoyu , Zhou Jingwen , Yu Shiqin
Published: September 2022

O-Acetylhomoserine (OAH) is an important platform chemical for the synthesis of L-methamidophos and l-methionine. It has been produced efficiently in Corynebacterium glutamicum. However, a wider range of key factors had not been identified, limiting further increases in OAH production. This study successfully identified some limiting factors and regulated them to improve OAH titer. Firstly, an efficient clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/dead CRISPR associated protein 9 (CRISPR-dCas9) system was constructed and used to identify the key genes in central metabolism and branch pathways associated with OAH biosynthesis. Then, the gltA gene involved in TCA cycle was identified as the most critical gene. A sequential promoter PNCgl2698, which showed different transcriptional intensity in different strain growth periods, was used to control the expression of gltA gene, resulting in OAH production of 7.0 g/L at 48 h. Finally, the OAH titer of the engineered strain reached 25.9 g/L at 72 h in a 5-L bioreactor. These results show that the identification and regulation of key genes are critical for OAH biosynthesis, which would provide a better research basis for the industrial production of OAH in C. glutamicum.
Preparation and characterization of polyethylene glycol/chitosan composite water-based wound healing lubricant
Authors: Gao Li , He Xinyi , Zhang Taohong , Li Peipei , An Ruifang
Published: September 2022

The proportion of pregnant women giving birth through cesarean section is increasing annually worldwide. However, post-cesarean section scar diverticulum is a common condition that occurs and requires better surgical strategies than the methods currently used. We hypothesized that using biological lubricant topically on the incision area during C-section could be an option to minimize the scar. This water-based polyethylene glycol (PEG)/chitosan (CS) composite lubricant was prepared via ultrasonic blending. The product was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The thermal stability of the materials and their heat absorption and release during heating were analyzed using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. Tribological tests proved that the PEG/CS composite had a better lubrication effect than either the PEG or CS lubricant alone, and the cell viability experiments verified that it had good biocompatibility. Finally, application of the composite lubricant onto the backs of mice modeling full-thickness skin incisions further confirmed that the product improved both the re-epithelialization and the collagen levels of the wounded skin. In conclusion, we expect our newly formulated PEG/CS composite lubricant to be useful not only for managing post-cesarean section scar diverticulum but also for healing skin wounds in general.
The effects of personal green spaces on human’s mental health and anxiety symptoms during COVID-19: The case of apartment residents in Tehran
Authors: Khaledi Hanieh Jafari , Faizi Mohsen , Khakzand Mehdi
Published: September 2022

The governments implemented social distancing and isolation with the spread of COVID-19. However, these ways efficiently prevent coronavirus transmission, but they caused unprecedented changes in most people’s day-to-day lives. One of the concerns is mental health, and many experts are concerned about the tsunami of mental illnesses during and after coronavirus. Being exposed to nature has an efficient role in mental health. Under pandemic conditions, people reduced their outdoor activities, but personal green spaces are still available. This research assessed the impact of these spaces as an alternative to public green spaces and their benefits during COVID-19 on mental health and generalized anxiety disorder. Accordingly, by designing an online self-administered questionnaire, a total of 700 residents of Tehran apartments were evaluated. A structural equation model was created. The results demonstrate that using personal green spaces has a negative correlation and significant impact on general mental health and generalized anxiety disorder. It also plays a more substantial role in reducing depression than its role in reducing anxiety among individuals. Therefore, maximum land use policies should be reviewed. Also, green spaces should be given more attention in post-COVID designs on a macro-scale to a small scale.
Implications of High-Density Cholesterol Metabolism for Oocyte Biology and Female Fertility
Authors: Arias Andreina , Quiroz Alonso , Santander Nicolás , Morselli Eugenia , Busso Dolores
Published: September 2022

Cholesterol is an essential component of animal cells. Different regulatory mechanisms converge to maintain adequate levels of this lipid because both its deficiency and excess are unfavorable. Low cell cholesterol content promotes its synthesis and uptake from circulating lipoproteins. In contrast, its excess induces the efflux to high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and their transport to the liver for excretion, a process known as reverse cholesterol transport. Different studies suggest that an abnormal HDL metabolism hinders female fertility. HDL are the only lipoproteins detected in substantial amounts in follicular fluid (FF), and their size and composition correlate with embryo quality. Oocytes obtain cholesterol from cumulus cells via gap junctions because they cannot synthesize cholesterol de novo and lack HDL receptors. Recent evidence has supported the possibility that FF HDL play a major role in taking up excess unesterified cholesterol (UC) from the oocyte. Indeed, genetically modified mouse models with disruptions in reverse cholesterol transport, some of which show excessive circulating UC levels, exhibit female infertility. Cholesterol accumulation can affect the egg´s viability, as reported in other cell types, and activate the plasma membrane structure and activity of membrane proteins. Indeed, in mice deficient for the HDL receptor Scavenger Class B Type I (SR-B1), excess circulating HDL cholesterol and UC accumulation in oocytes impairs meiosis arrest and hinders the developmental capacity of the egg. In other cells, the addition of cholesterol activates calcium channels and dysregulates cell death/survival signaling pathways, suggesting that these mechanisms may link altered HDL cholesterol metabolism and infertility. Although cholesterol, and lipids in general, are usually not evaluated in infertile patients, one study reported high circulating UC levels in women showing longer time to pregnancy as an outcome of fertility. Based on the evidence described above, we propose the existence of a well-regulated and largely unexplored system of cholesterol homeostasis controlling traffic between FF HDL and oocytes, with significant implications for female fertility.
The glycolytic enzyme ALDOA and the exon junction complex protein RBM8A are regulators of ribosomal biogenesis
Authors: Schwarz Jessica Denise , Lukassen Sören , Bhandare Pranjali , Eing Lorenz , Snaebjörnsson Marteinn Thor , García Yiliam Cruz , Kisker Jan Philipp , Schulze Almut , Wolf Elmar
Published: September 2022

Cellular growth is a fundamental process of life and must be precisely controlled in multicellular organisms. Growth is crucially controlled by the number of functional ribosomes available in cells. The production of new ribosomes depends critically on the activity of RNA polymerase (RNAP) II in addition to the activity of RNAP I and III, which produce ribosomal RNAs. Indeed, the expression of both, ribosomal proteins and proteins required for ribosome assembly (ribosomal biogenesis factors), is considered rate-limiting for ribosome synthesis. Here, we used genetic screening to identify novel transcriptional regulators of cell growth genes by fusing promoters from a ribosomal protein gene (Rpl18) and from a ribosomal biogenesis factor (Fbl) with fluorescent protein genes (RFP, GFP) as reporters. Subsequently, both reporters were stably integrated into immortalized mouse fibroblasts, which were then transduced with a genome-wide sgRNA-CRISPR knockout library. Subsequently, cells with altered reporter activity were isolated by FACS and the causative sgRNAs were identified. Interestingly, we identified two novel regulators of growth genes. Firstly, the exon junction complex protein RBM8A controls transcript levels of the intronless reporters used here. By acute depletion of RBM8A protein using the auxin degron system combined with the genome-wide analysis of nascent transcription, we showed that RBM8A is an important global regulator of ribosomal protein transcripts. Secondly, we unexpectedly observed that the glycolytic enzyme aldolase A (ALDOA) regulates the expression of ribosomal biogenesis factors. Consistent with published observations that a fraction of this protein is located in the nucleus, this may be a mechanism linking transcription of growth genes to metabolic processes and possibly to metabolite availability.
Exploring ionic liquid-laden metal-organic framework composite materials as hybrid electrolytes in metal (ion) batteries
Authors: Urgoiti-Rodriguez Maitane , Vaquero-Vílchez Saloa , Mirandona-Olaeta Alexander , Fernández de Luis Roberto , Goikolea Eider , Costa Carlos M. , Lanceros-Mendez Senentxu , Fidalgo-Marijuan Arkaitz , Ruiz de Larramendi Idoia
Published: September 2022

This review focuses on the combination of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and ionic liquids (ILs) to obtain composite materials to be used as solid electrolytes in metal-ion battery applications. Benefiting from the controllable chemical composition, tunable pore structure and surface functionality, MOFs offer great opportunities for synthesizing high-performance electrolytes. Moreover, the encapsulation of ILs into porous materials can provide environmentally benign solid-state electrolytes for electrochemical devices. Due to the versatility of MOF-based materials, in this review we also explore their use as anodes and cathodes in Li- and Na-ion batteries. Finally, solid IL@MOF electrolytes and their implementation into Li and Na batteries have been analyzed, as well as the design and advanced manufacturing of solid IL@MOF electrolytes embedded on polymeric matrices.
Deep metagenomic characterization of gut microbial community and function in preeclampsia
Authors: Lv Li-Juan , Li Sheng-Hui , Wen Ji-Ying , Wang Guang-Yang , Li Hui , He Tian-Wen , Lv Qing-Bo , Xiao Man-Chun , Duan Hong-Li , Chen Min-Chai , Yi Zhou-Ting , Yan Qiu-Long , Yin Ai-Hua
Published: September 2022

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy complication characterized by severe hypertension and multiple organ damage. Gut microbiota has been linked to PE by previous amplicon sequencing studies. To resolve the PE gut microbiota in a higher taxonomy resolution, we performed shotgun metagenomic sequencing on the fecal samples from 40 early-onset PE and 37 healthy pregnant women. We recovered 1,750 metagenome-assembled genomes (representing 406 species) from the metagenomic dataset and profiled their abundances. We found that PE gut microbiota had enriched in some species belonging to Blautia, Pauljensenia, Ruminococcus, and Collinsella and microbial functions such as the bacitracin/lantibiotics transport system, maltooligosaccharide transport system, multidrug efflux pump, and rhamnose transport system. Conversely, the gut microbiome of healthy pregnant women was enriched in species of Bacteroides and Phocaeicola and microbial functions including the porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, pyridoxal-P biosynthesis, riboflavin metabolism, and folate biosynthesis pathway. PE diagnostic potential of gut microbial biomarkers was developed using both species and function profile data. These results will help to explore the relationships between gut bacteria and PE and provide new insights into PE early warning.
On the seasonal prediction and predictability of winter surface Temperature Swing Index over North America
Authors: Yang Xiaosong , Delworth Thomas L. , Jia Liwei , Johnson Nathaniel C. , Lu Feiyu , McHugh Colleen
Published: September 2022

The rapid day-to-day temperature swings associated with extratropical storm tracks can cause cascading infrastructure failure and impact human outdoor activities, thus research on seasonal prediction and predictability of extreme temperature swings is of huge societal importance. To measure the extreme surface air temperature (SAT) variations associated with the winter extratropical storm tracks, a Temperature Swing Index (TSI) is formulated as the standard deviation of 24-h-difference-filtered data of the 6-hourly SAT. The dominant term governing the TSI variability is shown to be proportional to the product of eddy heat flux and mean temperature gradient. The seasonal prediction skill of the winter TSI over North America was assessed using Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory's new seasonal prediction system. The locations with skillful TSI prediction show a geographic pattern that is distinct from the pattern of skillful seasonal mean SAT prediction. The prediction of TSI provides additional predictable climate information beyond the traditional seasonal mean temperature prediction. The source of the seasonal TSI prediction can be attributed to year-to-year variations of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), North Pacific Oscillation (NPO), and Pacific/North American (PNA) teleconnection. Over the central United States, the correlation skill of TSI prediction reaches 0.75 with strong links to observed ENSO, NPO, and PNA, while the skill of seasonal SAT prediction is relatively low with a correlation of 0.36. As a first attempt of diagnosing the combined predictability of the first-order (the seasonal mean) and second-order (TSI) statistics for SAT, this study highlights the importance of the eddy-mean flow interaction perspective for understanding the seasonal climate predictability in the extra tropics. These results point toward providing skillful prediction of higher-order statistical information related to winter temperature extremes, thus enriching the seasonal forecast products for the research community and decision makers.
Cinematography for female objectification: Analysis of item songs of Pakistani movies
Authors: Aksar Iffat , Jiang Xuege , Gong Jiankun
Published: September 2022

The transition in Pakistani cinema and terming it as a rival of cinema heavily depends on the bowing technique of item songs, which is deliberately fueling the negative representation of females. The qualitative analysis of item songs underlines the representation of women and sheds light on aspects regarding how the objectification of women in item songs is done in a patriarchal society and what values are assigned based on gender. The analysis of item songs revealed that women were sexually objectified and the use of clothing, jewelery, makeup, body movements, and gestures are filmed to enhance their bodies. Hence, most of the songs used females as an object of sensation and enjoyment. On the other side, the notion of women's empowerment is being raised all over the world but still, cinema presents her in a submissive way and defines her role to please men. The dominancy of the male is projected and the close angle of her body gestures and nude body parts show her vulnerability. The visualization of the female reflects that she is presented tactfully to appeal to the audience, and her fragile role is reinforced.
Association between the weight-adjusted-waist index and abdominal aortic calcification in United States adults: Results from the national health and nutrition examination survey 2013–2014
Authors: Xie Feng , Xiao Yuan , Li Xiaozhong , Wu Yanqing
Published: September 2022

Background

Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) is recognized as a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. This study aimed to evaluate the association between weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI) and AAC in United States adults aged ≥ 40 years.

Materials and methods

Data were derived from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). WWI was calculated as waist circumference divided by the square root of weight. AAC scores were quantified by the Kauppila scoring system, and severe AAC was defined as an AAC score ≥ 6. Weighted multivariable regression analysis and subgroup analysis were performed to evaluate the relationship between WWI with AAC scores and severe AAC. The restricted cubic spline model was used for the dose-response analysis.

Results

A total of 2,772 participants were included with the mean WWI of 11.17 ± 0.73 cm/√kg and mean AAC score of 1.48 ± 3.27. The prevalence of severe AAC was 9.64%. WWI was positively associated with higher AAC scores [β = 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.65–1.25, P < 0.001] and increased risk of severe AAC [odds ratio (OR) = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.20–2.75; P = 0.005]. A nearly linear relationship between the WWI and the odds of severe AAC was found after adjustment for multiple potential covariates (P for non-linear = 0.625). Subgroup analysis indicated that the association between WWI and AAC was similar in different population settings.

Conclusion

Higher WWI was associated with higher AAC score and increased risk of severe AAC in United States adults. Further studies are needed to confirm this relationship.
Additional prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance for cardiovascular risk stratification after a cryptogenic ischemic stroke
Authors: Toupin Solenn , Pezel Théo , Sanguineti Francesca , Kinnel Marine , Hovasse Thomas , Unterseeh Thierry , Champagne Stéphane , Garot Philippe , Garot Jérôme
Published: September 2022

Background

One-third of ischemic strokes are “cryptogenic” without clearly identified etiology. Although coronary artery disease (CAD) is the main cause of death after stroke, the interest in CAD screening in patients with cryptogenic stroke is still debated.

Aim

The aim of the study was to assess the incremental prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) beyond traditional risk factors for predicting cardiovascular events in patients with a prior cryptogenic ischemic stroke.

Materials and methods

Between 2008 and 2021, consecutive patients with prior cryptogenic strokes referred for stress CMR were included and followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), defined by cardiovascular death or non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI). Univariable and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of unrecognized MI and silent ischemia.

Results

Of 542 patients (55.2% male, mean age 71.4 ± 8.8 years) who completed the follow-up (median 5.9 years), 66 (12.2%) experienced MACE. Silent ischemia and unrecognized MI were detected in 18 and 17% of patients, respectively. Using Kaplan–Meier analysis, silent ischemia and unrecognized MI were associated with the occurrence of MACE [hazard ratio, HR: 8.43 (95% CI: 5.11–13.9); HR: 7.87 (95% CI: 4.80–12.9), respectively, p < 0.001]. In multivariable analysis, silent ischemia and unrecognized MI were independent predictors of MACE [HR: 8.08 (95% CI: 4.21–15.5); HR: 6.65 (95% CI: 3.49–12.7), respectively, p < 0.001]. After adjustment, stress CMR findings showed the best improvement in model discrimination and reclassification above traditional risk factors (C-statistic improvement: 0.13; NRI = 0.428; IDI = 0.048).

Conclusion

In patients with prior cryptogenic stroke, stress CMR findings have an incremental prognostic value to predict MACE over traditional risk factors.
Automatic view classification of contrast and non-contrast echocardiography
Authors: Zhu Ye , Ma Junqiang , Zhang Zisang , Zhang Yiwei , Zhu Shuangshuang , Liu Manwei , Zhang Ziming , Wu Chun , Yang Xin , Cheng Jun , Ni Dong , Xie Mingxing , Xue Wufeng , Zhang Li
Published: September 2022

Background

Contrast and non-contrast echocardiography are crucial for cardiovascular diagnoses and treatments. Correct view classification is a foundational step for the analysis of cardiac structure and function. View classification from all sequences of a patient is laborious and depends heavily on the sonographer’s experience. In addition, the intra-view variability and the inter-view similarity increase the difficulty in identifying critical views in contrast and non-contrast echocardiography. This study aims to develop a deep residual convolutional neural network (CNN) to automatically identify multiple views of contrast and non-contrast echocardiography, including parasternal left ventricular short axis, apical two, three, and four-chamber views.

Methods

The study retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 855 patients who had undergone left ventricular opacification at the Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Wuhan Union Medical College Hospital from 2013 to 2021, including 70.3% men and 29.7% women aged from 41 to 62 (median age, 53). All datasets were preprocessed to remove sensitive information and 10 frames with equivalent intervals were sampled from each of the original videos. The number of frames in the training, validation, and test datasets were, respectively, 19,370, 2,370, and 2,620 from 9 views, corresponding to 688, 84, and 83 patients. We presented the CNN model to classify echocardiographic views with an initial learning rate of 0.001, and a batch size of 4 for 30 epochs. The learning rate was decayed by a factor of 0.9 per epoch.

Results

On the test dataset, the overall classification accuracy is 99.1 and 99.5% for contrast and non-contrast echocardiographic views. The average precision, recall, specificity, and F1 score are 96.9, 96.9, 100, and 96.9% for the 9 echocardiographic views.

Conclusions

This study highlights the potential of CNN in the view classification of echocardiograms with and without contrast. It shows promise in improving the workflow of clinical analysis of echocardiography.
Comprehensive review of hybrid aortic arch repair with focus on zone 0 TEVAR and our institutional experience
Authors: Singh Saket , Pupovac Stevan S. , Assi Roland , Vallabhajosyula Prashanth
Published: September 2022

Even with increasing operator experience and a better understanding of the disease and the operation, intervention for aortic arch pathologies continues to struggle with relatively higher mortality, reintervention, and neurologic complications. The hybrid aortic arch repair was introduced to simplify the procedure and improve the outcome. With recent industry-driven advances, hybrid repairs are not only offered to poor surgical candidates but have become mainstream. This review discusses the evolution of hybrid repair, terminology pertinent to this technique, and results. In addition, we aim to provide a pervasive review of hybrid aortic arch repairs with reference to relevant literature for a detailed understanding. We have also discussed our institutional experience with hybrid repairs.
Pore structure and fractal characteristics of the marine shale of the longmaxi formation in the changning area, Southern Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Li Hu , Zhou Jiling , Mou Xingyu , Guo Hongxi , Wang Xiaoxing , An Hongyi , Mo Qianwen , Long Hongyu , Dang Chenxi , Wu Jianfa , Zhao Shengxian , Wang Shilin , Zhao Tianbiao , He Shun
Published: September 2022

The pore structure is an important factor affecting reservoir capacity and shale gas production. The shale reservoir of the Longmaxi Formation in the Changning area, Southern Sichuan Basin, is highly heterogeneous and has a complex pore structure. To quantitatively characterize the shale’s pore structure and influencing factors, based on whole rock X-ray diffraction, argon ion polishing electron microscopy observations, and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption-desorption experiments, the characteristics of the shale pore structure are studied by using the Frenkel-Halsey-Hill (FHH) model. The research reveals the following: 1) The pores of the Longmaxi Formation shale mainly include organic pores, intergranular pores, dissolution pores and microfractures. The pore size is mainly micro-mesoporous. Both ink bottle-type pores and semiclosed slit-type pores with good openness exist, but mainly ink bottle-type pores are observed. 2) The pore structure of the Longmaxi Formation shale has self-similarity, conforms to the fractal law, and shows double fractal characteristics. Taking the relative pressure of 0.45 (P/P0 = 0.45) as the boundary, the surface fractal dimension Dsf and the structural fractal dimension Dst are defined. Dsf is between 2.3215 and 2.6117, and the structural fractal dimension Dst is between 2.8424 and 2.9016. The pore structure of micropores and mesopores is more complex. 3) The mineral components and organic matter have obvious control over the fractal dimension of shale, and samples from different wells show certain differences. The fractal dimension has a good positive correlation with the quartz content but an obvious negative correlation with clay minerals. The higher the total organic carbon content is, the higher the degree of thermal evolution, the more complex the pore structure of shale, and the larger the fractal dimension. The results have guiding significance for the characterization of pore structure of tight rocks.
Analysis of fault slip potential of active faults in Tangshan seismic region after the Tohoku-Oki 3.11 M9.0 earthquake based on in situ stress monitoring data
Authors: Fan Yulu , Zhang Peng , Feng Chengjun , Meng Jing , Qi Bangshen , Wang Jiming , Tan Chengxuan
Published: September 2022

In order to ascertain the impact of the Tohoku-Oki 3.11 M9.0 earthquake on the stability of the faults in the Tangshan seismic region, we investigated the adjustment of the in situ stress field of the seismic region after this earthquake based on in situ stress monitoring data. Then, according to the Mohr-Coulomb failure criteria and Byerlee’s law, we used the FSP v.1.0 software package to calculate the fault slip potential (FSP) of the main faults in the seismic region at each adjustment stage of the in situ stress field, and to study the risk of fault activity. The research results show that 1) after the Tohoku-Oki 3.11 M9.0 earthquake, the tectonic environment of the Beijing Plain area changed rapidly from nearly EW extrusion to nearly EW extension, and this state was maintained until June 2012. After this, it began to gradually adjust to the state present before the earthquake. As of September 2019, at the depth of 100m, the maximum horizontal principal stress value in Tangshan seismic region was 7.61–7.81MPa, the minimum horizontal principal stress value was 5.30–5.50MPa, and the maximum horizontal principal stress orientation was N55.1°–59.5°E. (2) Before the Tohoku-Oki 3.11 M9.0 earthquake, the stress accumulation level of the main faults in the seismic region was relatively high with the FSP values of 30–60%. After this earthquake, the stress accumulation level of each fault continued to decrease, as of May 2013, the FSP values were mainly concentrated at 10–35%. Then, the stress accumulation level of major faults in the seismic region began to gradually increase. As of September 2019, the FSP values were mainly concentrated at 23–37%, and the stress accumulation level was still lower than the pre-earthquake state. 3) The fault activity in the central and northern parts of the seismic region was the strongest, followed by the southern part and western part, and the fault activity in the eastern part was the weakest.
Case Report: Composite pheochromocytoma with ganglioneuroma component: A report of three cases
Authors: Araujo Paula B. , Carvallo Mirna S. , Vidal Ana P. , Nascimento João B. , Wo Julia M. , Naliato Erika O. , Cunha Neto Silvio H. , Conceição Flavia L. , Fontes Rosita , de Lima Vinicius V. , Carvalho Denise P. , Soares Paula , Lima Jorge , Lourenço Delmar M. , Violante Alice Helena D.
Published: September 2022

Composite pheochromocytoma (CP) is a very rare tumor originating from neural crest cells, predominantly composed of pheochromocytoma (PCC), a chromaffin cell tumor arising in adrenal medulla, and ganglioneuroma, a tumor derived from autonomic ganglion cells of the nervous system. Moreover, CP may be present in the hereditary syndromes of which pheochromocytoma is part. Literature offers scarce data on this subject, and particularly about its biological behavior, clinical evolution, and molecular profile. We report the phenotype and outcome of three cases of CP (PCC and ganglioneuroma components), followed up at the Endocrine Service of the Clementino Fraga Filho University Hospital, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Two nonsyndromic patients (cases 1 and 2) were negative to germline mutations in genes VHL, SDHB, SDHC, SDHD, SDHAF2, TMEM127, and MAX, while the third case (case 3) had clinical diagnosis of neurofibromatosis syndrome. Cases 1, 2, and 3 were diagnosed at 29, 39, and 47 years old, respectively, and were followed up for 3, 17, and 9 years without no CP recurrence. All cases had apparent symptoms of catecholaminergic excess secreted by PCC. Ganglioneuroma, the neurogenic component present in all three cases, had a percentage representation ranging from 5% to 15%. Tumors were unilateral and large, measuring 7.0 cm × 6.0 cm × 6.0 cm, 6.0 cm × 4.0 cm × 3.2 cm, and 7.5 cm × 6.0 cm × 4.5 cm, respectively. All cases underwent adrenalectomy with no recurrence, metastasis, or development of contralateral tumor during follow-up. Genetic testing has been scarcely offered to CP cases. However, a similar frequency of genetic background is found when compared with classic PCC, mainly by the overrepresentation of NF1 cases in the CP subset. By literature review, we identified a notorious increase in cases reported with CP in the last decade, especially in the last 3 years, indicating a recent improvement in the diagnosis of this rare disorder in clinical practice.
Gastrointestinal adverse events of metformin treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Nabrdalik Katarzyna , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Irlik Krzysztof , Hendel Mirela , Kwiendacz Hanna , Łoniewski Igor , Januszkiewicz Kornelia , Gumprecht Janusz , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Metformin is the first choice drug in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus but its administration may be linked to gastrointestinal adverse events limiting its use.

Objectives

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the risk of gastrointestinal adverse events related to metformin use in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with metformin.

Methods

PUB MED/CINAHL/Web of Science/Scopus were searched from database inception until 08.11.2020 for articles in English and randomized controlled trials related to patients with type 2 diabetes treated with metformin were included.

Results

From 5315 publications, we identified 199 potentially eligible full-text articles. Finally, 71 randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. In these studies, metformin use was associated with higher risk of abdominal pain, diarrhea and nausea comparing to control. The risks of abdominal pain and nausea were highest comparing to placebo. Bloating risk was only elevated when metformin treatment was compared to DPP4i.

Conclusions

The risk of gastrointestinal adverse events such as abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea is higher in type 2 diabetes patients treated with metformin compared to other antidiabetic drugs. There is a higher risk of bloating and diarrhea with metformin immediate-release than with metformin extended release formulation.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021289975, identifier CRD42021289975.
Association between lncRNAs in plasma exosomes and diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Ye Qingqing , Li Lian , Shao Zhoujie , Xu Miao , Li Li , Yan Qianqian , Huang Bin , Zhao Tian
Published: September 2022

Background

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in plasma exosomes is a potential non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for diabetic retinopathy (DR). However, the changes in plasma exosomal lncRNAs and diagnostic relevance in patients with DR patients remain unclear.

Methods

A case–control study with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and patients with comorbid DR were enrolled, and their clinical information and blood samples were collected. Plasma exosomes were extracted, and the relative expression levels of representative differentially expressed exosomal lncRNAs were determined. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationships of DR with relative lncRNA expression and DR-related factors, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the value of exosomal lncRNAs for DR diagnosis.

Results

Sixty-two patients with T2DM and sixty-two patients with DR were matched by age, sex, and disease duration. The fasting blood glucose concentration, glycosylated hemoglobin level (HbA1c), and relative expression of the plasma exosomal lncRNA DLX6-AS1 were significantly higher in the DR group than in the T2DM group, whereas the 2-h C-peptide concentration and relative expression of the lncRNAs PRINS and FAM190A-3 were lower in the DR group. After adjusting for relevant confounders, the fasting blood glucose concentration, HbA1c level, 2-h C-peptide concentration, and relative expression of lncRNA DLX6-AS1, PRINS, and FAM190A-3 were found to be associated with DR. Both DLX6-AS1 [area under the curve (AUC): 0.658 (0.562–0.754)], PRINS [AUC: 0.798 (0.722–0.873)], and FAM190A-3 [AUC: 0.603 (0.503-0.702)] expression had predictive value for DR diagnosis. The combination of DLX6-AS1 and PRINS yielded an AUC of 0.813 (0.740–0.886). In males, the combination of DLX6-AS1 and PRINS yielded an AUC of 0.860 (0.780–0.940).

Conclusion

The fasting blood glucose concentration, HbA1c level, and exosomal DLX6-AS1 expression were identified as risk factors for DR, whereas the 2-h C-peptide concentration and exosomal PRINS and FAM190A-3 were identified as protective against DR. The combination of exosomal DLX6-AS1 and PRINS had good diagnostic value for DR in the general population and males. More attention should be paid to the role of exosomal PRINS expression as a predictive and diagnostic DR biomarker in females.
On the road to sustainable transport: Acceptance and preferences for renewable fuel production infrastructure
Authors: Linzenich Anika , Engelmann Linda , Arning Katrin , Becker Tristan , Wolff Michael , Walther Grit , Ziefle Martina
Published: September 2022

To abate climate change and ameliorate the air quality in urban areas, innovative solutions are required to reduce CO2 and pollutant emissions from traffic. Alternative fuels made from biomass or CO2 and hydrogen can contribute to these goals by substituting fossil gasoline or diesel in combustion engines. Using a conjoint analysis approach, the current study investigates preferences of laypeople (n = 303) for fuel production facilities in terms of siting location, plant size, raw material used in the production, and raw material transport. The location was most decision-relevant, followed by raw material transport, whereas plant size and type of raw material played a less prominent role for the preference choice. The best-case scenario from the point of view of acceptance would be the installation of a rather small bio-hybrid fuel production plant in an industrial area (instead of an agricultural or pristine environment). No transport or transport via underground pipeline were preferred over truck/tank car or overground pipeline. The findings can be used as a basis for planning and decision-making for designing production networks for new fuel types.
The Park city perspective study: Revealing the park accessibility influenced by experiences of visitors under different travel modes
Authors: Tan Renhua , Wang Ruiqi , Wang Yu , Yi Disheng , Chen Yan , Cai Wenting , Wang Xiangchun
Published: September 2022

With social media platforms becoming popular in recent years, Big Data has become an effective way to explore human-oriented service capability of parks. In this research, the spatial accessibility of urban parks under four different travel modes (driving, transiting, biking, and walking) and multiple modes was analyzed by integrating the actual experiences of visitors and real travel time. We took the built-up area of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China as the research area and drew conclusions as follows: 1) park accessibility of Chengdu still has a large space for promotion. 2) Residents living in the east region of Qingyang District and Wuhou District, north area of Jinniu District, and Chenghua District are more convenient to visit parks, as well as the population center of Longquanyi District, Shuangliu District, and Pidu District. In addition, riders and walkers are more likely to go to the nearest park. 3) Accessibility of parks would be affected significantly during peak hours and weekends by driving and multiple modes, while the other travel modes had little influence. 4) Spatial aggregation was more obvious during the peak hours of weekdays under driving modes, while there were obvious cold spot areas distributed continuously for riders. 5) Park desert was found in Yongquan Subdistrict, Jitouqiao Subdistrict, and Chenglonglu Subdistrict, which were near the downtown. Overall, Chengdu must make rational use of small and micro spaces in the city to add greenery to the corners of the city and integrate parks with other surrounding industries to inspire the entertainment, economy, and tourism function of parks. Through the modified 2SFCA method, this study provide a more realistic and human-oriented way to demonstrate the accessibility. Also, the results can guide cities to understand what reasonable and appropriate parks they need to build to achieve the equalization of park recreation services.
Foreign investor engagement: Stock market liberalization and corporate green innovation in China
Authors: Li Tiantian , Liu Xiaoxue , Fan Shuangshuang
Published: September 2022

To confront the growing threat of climate change and achieve carbon neutrality, green governance has come under the spotlight globally. This paper investigates the effect of stock market liberalization on corporate green innovation, aiming to explore whether foreign investor engagement contributes to the green development of Chinese enterprises. Employing a staggered DID estimation, we find that firms generate a higher level of green innovation output after they experience the liberalization, and this effect is more pronounced when foreign investors become the focal firms’ top ten shareholders. Meanwhile, foreign investors who enter China’s A-share market with the implementation of this policy are value investors, indicating that stock market liberalization can help lead firms’ investment decision more future-oriented. We also find that financing constraints play a significant role in the association between stock market liberalization and corporate green innovation. The results of heterogeneity analyses show that the positive implication of liberalization on corporate green innovation is stronger for non state-owned enterprises, firms in high-tech industries and firms in less polluting industries. Our paper provides new insights into the economic effect of foreign investor engagement in emerging capital market and the factors affecting corporate green innovation in China.
Spatial and temporal patterns of microphytobenthos communities along the marine-terrestrial boundary in the German Wadden Sea
Authors: Yong Joanne , Moick Melissa , Dewenter Jana , Hillebrand Helmut , Kröncke Ingrid , Lõhmus Kertu , Pieck Daniela , Rohde Sven , Moorthi Stefanie
Published: September 2022

Microphytobenthos (MPBs) are the main primary producers in shallow marine ecosystems, such as the Wadden Sea. We investigated the spatial and temporal dynamics of MPB communities across the marine-terrestrial boundary over three seasons (spring, summer, and fall) on three East Frisian Islands (Norderney, Spiekeroog, and Wangerooge) in the German Wadden Sea. Natural transects were compared with 12 experimental islands (salt marsh vegetated vs. initially bare islands) established on the tidal flats of Spiekeroog for studying dispersal-mediated community assembly. Sediment cores were taken along triplicate transects and on three elevation levels of the experimental islands, corresponding to the pioneer (pio) zone, the lower salt (LS) marsh, and the upper salt (US) marsh. On both the natural transects and the experimental islands, the highest MPB biomass was observed in the pio zone, where vegetation-driven sediment stabilization and high-mud content could have promoted MPB biomass in this marine-terrestrial transition zone. On the experimental islands, MPB biomass and diversity significantly decreased with elevation regardless of the season, indicating that the rarely submerged upper salt marsh level supported minimal MPB growth. The MPB biomass was also higher on initially vegetated than on bare islands, which was the most pronounced on the US level. On the tidal flat transects, the MPB biomass significantly increased with elevation up to the pio zone before decreasing again in the LS marsh. Temperature, sediment water content, and grain size significantly affected transect MPB biomass. MPB diversity, on the other hand, was not related to elevation but was rather determined by temperature, mean grain size, and mud content. Our study suggests that extending MPB studies into the “terrestrial” domain of salt marshes enhances our understanding of the microalgae–plant interaction in this important boundary zone.