bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Percutaneous Cortical Bone Trajectory Screw Fixation Vs. Traditional Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation for Traumatic Type a Lumbar Fractures Without Neurological Deficits
Authors: Zheng Zhangan , Zhang Li , Zhu Yu , Chen Jun , Yan Zheng , Zhang Pengpeng , Liu Chunhong , Zhang Yinshun , Xu Hongguang , Wang Bing , Gui Zhaoliu , Xue Shuangtao , Yin Zongsheng
Published: October 2021

Objective: The purposes of this study were to examine the clinical and radiological outcomes after percutaneous cortical bone trajectory screw fixation (PCBT) for traumatic type A lumbar fractures without neurological deficits and to compare these outcomes with those after traditional percutaneous pedicle screw fixation (PPSF) technique.Methods: The study included 22 consecutively treated patients who underwent PCBT technique (PCBT group) and a historical control group of 24 consecutively treated patients who underwent traditional PPSF surgery (PPSF group). Clinical outcomes (including Visual analogue scores (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores) and radiographic assessments including Vertebral wedge angle (VWA) and Sagittal index were recorded and compared between the two groups.Results: Incision length and hospital stay in the PCBT group were significantly better than the PPSF group (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in clinical and radiographic outcomes, including blood loss, X-ray exposure, surgery time, VAS, ODI scores, VWA and sagittal index (p > 0.05 each). However, after multiply adjustment, PCBT group had better postoperative restoration in terms of VWA than the PPSF group (p < 0.05).Conclusions: The present study showed that PCBT is a safe and feasible method for the treatment of lumbar fractures without neurological deficits. It resulted in smaller incisions and shorter period of hospital stay, yet yielded equivalent or superior clinical and radiographic outcomes compared to the traditional PPSF.
Translational Imaging of the Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP) Using the New Ligand [68Ga]Ga-OncoFAP-DOTAGA
Authors: Backhaus Philipp , Gierse Florian , Burg M.C. , Büther Florian , Asmus Inga , Dorten Paulina Marie , Cufe Juela , Roll Wolfgang , Neri Dario , Cazzamalli Samuele , Millul Jacopo , Mock Jacqueline , Galbiati Andrea , Zana Aureliano , Schäfers Klaus P. , Hermann Sven , Weckesser Matthias , Tio Joke , Wagner Stefan , Breyholz Hans-Jörg , Schäfers Michael
Published: October 2021

PurposeThe fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is an emerging target for molecular imaging and therapy in cancer. OncoFAP is a novel small organic ligand for FAP with very high affinity. In this translational study, we establish [68Ga]Ga-OncoFAP-DOTAGA (68Ga-OncoFAP) radiolabeling, benchmark its properties in preclinical imaging and evaluate its application in clinical PET scanning.Methods68Ga-OncoFAP was synthesized in a cassette-based fully automated labelling module. Lipophilicity, affinity, and serum stability of 68Ga-OncoFAP were assessed by determining logD7.4, IC50 values and radiochemical purity. 68Ga-OncoFAP tumor uptake and imaging properties were assessed in preclinical dynamic PET/MRI in murine subcutaneous tumor models. Finally, biodistribution and uptake in a variety of tumor types were analyzed in 12 patients based on individual clinical indications that received 163 ± 50 MBq 68Ga-OncoFAP combined with PET/CT and PET/MRI.Results68Ga-OncoFAP radiosynthesis was accomplished with high radiochemical yields. Affinity for FAP, lipophilicity and stability of 68Ga-OncoFAP measured are ideally suited for PET imaging. PET and gamma counting-based biodistribution demonstrated beneficial tracer kinetics and high uptake in murine FAP expressing tumor models with high tumor-to-blood ratios of 8.6 ± 5.1 at 1 h and 38.1 ± 33.1 at 3 h p.i. Clinical 68Ga-OncoFAP PET/CT and PET/MRI demonstrated favorable biodistribution and kinetics with high and reliable uptake in primary cancers (SUVmax 12.3 ± 2.3), lymph nodes (SUVmax 9.7 ± 8.3) and distant metastases (SUVmax up to 20.0).ConclusionExcellent preclinical and clinical imaging characteristics validate 68Ga-OncoFAP as a powerful alternative to currently available FAP tracers.
Crosstalk between SUMOylated PPARγ1 and FOXO1 Exerts a Positive-feedback Effect on Vascular Endothelial Insulin Resistance
Authors: Kong Ying , Niu Ailin , Yuan Wanwan , Xia Min , Xiong Xiaowei , Lu Yanli , Yin Tingting , Zhang Yanan , Chen Sheng , Huang Qianqian , Zeng Guohua , Huang Qiren
Published: October 2021

Background: PPARγ and FOXO1 are key regulators of transcription factors that mediate insulin sensitivity. We previously showed that a small ubiquitin-related modifier of PPARγ1 at K77 (SUMOylation) favors endothelial insulin resistance (IR) induced by high-fat/high-glucose (HF/HG) administration. However, whether and how the crosstalk between SUMOylated PPARγ1 and FOXO1 mediates the development of IR remains unclear. Here, we place emphasis on elucidating how PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation interacts with FOXO1 and participates in the development of endothelial IR.Methods: Adenovirus or adeno-associated virus carrying a truncated PPARγ1 containing AF1 and DBD domains fused with SUMO-1 (PPARγ1[1-182 aa]-SUMO-1 fusion protein) was utilized to simulate PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation. Furthermore, we carried out PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation imitating-IR and worsening-IR experiments in vitro and in vivo. The vascular diastolic function and levels of p-IKK, IKK, p-PI3K, PI3K, p-Akt, Akt, p-eNOS, and eNOS were measured. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, the interaction of PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation and FOXO1 was examined by co-immunoprecipitation. The recruitment of PPARγ1 or FOXO1 to PPRE was analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation, followed by measuring the PPARγ1 transcriptional activity and translocation of FOXO1.Results: Our results show that like HF/HG, PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation imitates endothelial IR and dysfunction, presenting decreased NO levels and elevated ET-1 levels, with PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway inhibited, and endothelium-dependent vasodilation function impaired. Moreover, combination of HF/HG and PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation exhibits a synergistic worsening effect on endothelial IR. Mechanistically, the results reveal that PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation readily interacts with FOXO1, and the PPRE binding site of PI3K is competitively blocked by FOXO1, which represses PPARγ1 transcriptional activity and downregulates the PI3K-Akt pathway. Inhibition of the PI3K-Akt pathway promotes the nuclear accumulation of FOXO1, which interacts with SUMOylated PPARγ1 in the nucleus, exerting a positive feedback effect on IR pathogenesis.Conclusion: These results reveal a novel association between PPARγ1-K77 SUMOylation and FOXO1, which inhibits PPARγ1 transcriptional activity and contributes to vascular endothelial IR. These findings will be beneficial for better understanding the pathogenesis of endothelial IR and providing novel pharmacological targets for diabetic angiopathy.
Impaired JAK-STAT Pathway Signaling in Leukocytes of Frail Elderly
Authors: Samson Leonard Daniël , Engelfriet Peter , Verschuren W. M. Monique , Picavet H. Susan J. , Ferreira José A. , de Zeeuw-Brouwer Mary-lène , Buisman Anne-Marie , Boots A. Mieke H.
Published: October 2021

Background: Elderly often show reduced immune functioning and develop chronic low-grade inflammation. Why some elderly are more prone to become frail is unknown. We investigated whether frailty is associated with differences in cytokine signaling through the JAK-STAT pathway in leukocytes of 34 individuals aged 65-77 years. In addition, we investigated how this relation is affected by chronic low-grade inflammation during the previous 20 years. Cytokine signaling was quantified by measuring intracellular STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5 phosphorylation in monocytes, B cells, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells upon stimulation with IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFNα and IFNγ, using phospho-flow cytometry. Plasma inflammatory markers had been measured repeatedly in the same individuals over the previous 20 years. Frailty was assessed as a score on a frailty index. Results: We found that lower cytokine-induced pSTAT responsiveness in the various cell subsets was seen with higher frailty scores in both men and women, indicative of dysfunctional pSTAT responses in frailer individuals. Associations differed between men and women, with frailer women showing lower pSTAT1 responses in monocytes and frailer men showing lower pSTAT5 responses in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Notably, lower IL-10-induced pSTAT3 responses in men were related to both higher frailty scores and higher CRP levels over the past 20 years. This might indicate poor resolution of low-grade inflammation due to defective regulatory pSTAT signaling in older men. Conclusions: Our results emphasize the importance of preserved JAK-STAT pathway signaling in healthy aging and reveal cellular pSTAT levels as a candidate biomarker of frailty.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Bone Mineral Density
Authors: Lima Luana da Costa , Grilo Evellyn Câmara , Cunha Thais Alves , de Araújo Bárbara Gurgel Magalhães , Brandão-Neto José , Vale Sancha Helena de Lima
Published: October 2021

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients are at risk of developing conditions that can compromise their bone health, such as fractures and walking impairment. We aimed to assess bone mineral density as a function of the age of DMD patients. The cross-sectional study included 48 patients distributed into four groups by age: G1 (5.1-9.2 years), G2 (9.3-10.7 years), G3 (11.2-15.9 years), and G4 (18-24.7 years). Lumbar spine and total body bone mineral density (BMD) measurements were performed with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. There was a moderate negative correlation between age and the lumbar spine BMD z-score (p = 0.001; r = -0.45) and a strong negative correlation between age and the total body BMD z-score (p = 0.001; r = -0.79). The lumbar spine BMD z-scores in G3 and G4 were significantly lower than those in G1 and G2 (p < 0.05). The total body BMD z-score in G3 was lower than those in G1 and G2 (p < 0.05), and in G4 was lower ​​than those in the other groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The older patients had lower lumbar spine and total body BMD z-score values than younger patients. Moreover, these values ​​were negatively correlated with the age of the patients.
Low-Dose 68 Ga-PSMA Prostate PET/MRI Imaging Using Deep Learning Based On MR Priors
Authors: Deng Fuquan , Li Xiaoyuan , Yang Fengjiao , Sun Hongwei , Yuan Jianmin , He Qiang , Xu Weifeng , Yang YongFeng , Liang Dong , Liu Xin , Zheng Hairong , hu zhanli
Published: October 2021

Purpose: 68 Ga-prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/MRI has become an effective imaging method for prostate cancer. The purpose of this study was to use deep learning methods to perform low-dose image restoration on PSMA PET/MRI and to evaluate the effect of synthesis on the images and the medical diagnosis of patients at risk of prostate cancer.Methods: We reviewed the 68 Ga-PSMA PET/MRI data of 41 patients. The low-dose PET images of these patients were restored to full-dose PET images through a deep learning method based on MR priors. The synthesized images were evaluated according to quantitative scores from nuclear medicine doctors and multiple imaging indicators, such as peak-signal noise ratio (PSNR), structural similarity (SSIM), normalization mean square error (NMSE), and relative contrast-to-noise ratio (RCNR).Results: The scores of the full images synthesized from 25%- and 50%-dose images based on MR priors were 3.84±0.36 and 4.03±0.17, respectively, which were higher than the scores of the target images. Correspondingly, the PSNR, SSIM, NMSE, and RCNR values of the full-dose images synthesized from 25%-dose PET images based on MR priors were 37.86±4.16, 0.916±0.063, 0.015±0.012, and 1.004±0.126, respectively.Conclusion: According to a combination of quantitative scores from nuclear medicine doctors and evaluations with multiple image indicators, the synthesis of full-dose images based on MR priors using 25%- and 50%-dose PET images did not affect the clinical diagnosis of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer patients can undergo 68 Ga-PSMA prostate PET/MRI scans with radiation doses reduced by up to 75% through the use of deep learning methods to synthesize full-dose images.
Soybean Meal Extract Preserves Memory Ability By Increasing Presynaptic Function and Modulating Gut Microbiota in Rats
Authors: Yeh Kun-Chieh , Hung Chi-Feng , Lee Hui-Ling , Hsieh Ting-Yang , Wang Su-Jane
Published: October 2021

Age-related degenerative brain diseases frequently manifest as memory deficits. Dietary interventions or nutraceuticals may provide efficacious treatments through prevention and cure. Soybean meal, a byproduct of soy oil refining, has health benefits, but its effect on memory function is unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of the oral administration of soybean meal extract (SME) for 2 weeks on memory function using the Morris water maze (MWM) test in healthy rats and investigated the possible underlying mechanisms. First, analysis of the composition revealed that SME is rich in isoflavones; SME did not exhibit hepatotoxicity or renal toxicity at the different doses tested. The MWM results revealed that the escape latency and movement distance of rats were significantly shorter in the SME group than in the control group, indicating that SME can help in memory preservation. In addition, SME increased the levels of presynaptic proteins such as synaptophysin, synaptobrevin, synaptotagmin, syntaxin, synapsin I, and 25-kDa synaptosome-associated protein as well as protein kinases and their phosphorylated expression, including extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), protein kinase C (PKC), and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII)] in the hippocampal nerve terminals (synaptosomes). Transmission electron microscopy also indicated that SME increased the number of synaptic vesicles in hippocampal synaptosomes. Furthermore, SME rats exhibited increased gut microbiota diversity and altered microbiota composition compared with control rats. Therefore, our data suggest that SME can increase presynaptic function and modulate gut microbiota, thus aiding in memory preservation in rats.
Influence of Discharge Gap On Material Removal and Melt Pool Movement in EDM Discharge Process
Authors: Yue Xiaoming , Fan Ji , Li Qi , Yang Xiaodong , Xu Zuoke , Chen Zhiyuan
Published: October 2021

In electrical discharge machining (EDM), gap control is the key to stable processing; the discharge gap plays a significant role in EDM. To determine the influence of the discharge gap on material removal and melt pool movement, which are two fundamental issues in EDM, high-speed photography and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to study the discharge process. Research results demonstrate that the discharge gap has a significant influence on material removal during the discharge process. A smaller gap width produces more and larger removed materials. The influence mechanism of the gap width on material removal is explained as follows. A smaller gap width produces discharge plasma with a smaller diameter and greater heat flux. Discharge with a greater heat flux generates more material removed during the discharge process. In addition, a smaller gap width and greater heat flux produce a stronger interaction of metal vapor jets, generating a stronger shear force acting on the melt pool. The discharge gap also influences the movement of the melt pool and the final topography of the discharge crater through external pressure acting on the melt pool. Smaller gap width produces greater external pressure acting on the melt pool, generating a bowl-shaped melt pool and a discharge crater with a depression in the center and a bulge around the edge. A larger gap width produces less external pressure acting on the melt pool, generating a flat melt pool and a discharge crater with swelling in the center and a depression around the edge.
Photodynamic therapy using mannose-conjugated chlorin e6 stimulates tumor immunity by increasing cell surface calreticulin in cancer cells and promoting macrophage phagocytosis
Authors: Kimura Yuka , Aoki Hiromasa , Soyama Tatsuki , Sakuragi Akira , Otsuka Yuto , Nomoto Akihiro , Yano Shigenobu , Nishie Hirotada , Kataoka Hiromi , Aoyama Mineyoshi
Published: October 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) damages cancer cells via photosensitization using harmless laser irradiation. We synthesized a new photosensitizer, mannose-conjugated-chlorin e6 (M-chlorin e6), which targets mannose receptors that are highly expressed on M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (M2-TAMs) and cancer cells. In our previous study, we demonstrated that M-chlorin e6 PDT reduces tumor volume and decreases the proportion of M2-TAMs. Whether M-chlorin e6 PDT–treated cancer cells activate tumor immunity remains unclear, although the decrease in M2-TAMs is thought to be a direct injurious effect of M-chlorin e6 PDT. Calreticulin (CRT) is exposed at the surface of the membrane of cancer cells in response to treatment with chemotherapeutic agents such as anthracycline and oxaliplatin. Surface-exposed CRT induces phagocytosis of CRT receptor–positive cells, including macrophages, resulting in antigen processing and the induction of T cell–mediated anticancer immune responses. In the present study, we found that M-chlorin e6 PDT increases CRT on the surface of cancer cells, leading to macrophage phagocytosis of cancer cells. Furthermore, M-chlorin e6 PDT increases CD80+CD86+ macrophages. These results suggest that M-chlorin e6 PDT stimulates T cell–mediated tumor immunity by enhancing the macrophage phagocytosis of cancer cells and the antigen-presenting capability of macrophages.
Clozapine Induces Astrocyte-Dependent FDG-PET Hypometabolism
Authors: Rocha Andreia Silva da , Bellaver Bruna , Souza Débora G. , Schu Guilherme , Fontana Igor Camargo , Venturin Gianina Teribele , Greggio Samuel , Fontella Fernanda Urruth , Schiavenin Manoela L. , Machado Luiza Santos , Miron Diogo , Costa Jaderson Costa da , Neto Pedro Rosa Neto Rosa , Souza Diogo O. , Pellerin Luc , Zimmer Eduardo R.
Published: October 2021

Purpose
Advances in functional imaging allowed us to visualize brain glucose metabolism in vivo and non-invasively with [18F]fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. In the past decades, FDG-PET has been instrumental in the understanding of brain function in health and disease. The source of the FDG-PET signal has been attributed to neuronal uptake, with hypometabolism being considered as a direct index of neuronal dysfunction or death. However, other brain cells are also metabolically active, including astrocytes. Based on the astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle hypothesis, the activation of the glutamate transporter 1 (GLT-1) acts as a trigger for glucose uptake by astrocytes. With this in mind, we investigated glucose utilization changes after pharmacologically downregulating GLT-1 with clozapine (CLO), an antipsychotic drug.
Methods
Adult male Wistar rats (control, n = 14; CLO, n = 12) received CLO (25/35mg kg−1) for six weeks. CLO effects were evaluated in vivo with FDG-PET and cortical tissue was used to evaluate glutamate uptake, GLT-1 and GLAST levels. CLO treatment effects were also assessed in cortical astrocyte cultures (glucose and glutamate uptake, GLT-1 and GLAST levels) and in cortical neuronal cultures (glucose uptake).
Results
CLO markedly reduced in vivo brain glucose metabolism in several brain areas, especially in the cortex. Ex vivo analyses demonstrated decreased cortical glutamate transport along with GLT-1 mRNA and protein downregulation. In astrocyte cultures, CLO decreased GLT-1 density as well as glutamate and glucose uptake. By contrast, in cortical neuronal cultures, CLO did not affect glucose uptake.
Conclusion
This work provides in vivo demonstration that GLT-1 downregulation induces astrocyte-dependent cortical FDG-PET hypometabolism - mimicking the hypometabolic signature seen in people developing dementia - and adds further evidence that astrocytes are key contributors of the FDG-PET signal.
First-line Osimertinib for Poor Performance Status Patients With EGFR Mutation-positive Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Igawa Satoshi , Fukui Tomoya , Kasajima Masashi , Ono Taihei , Ozawa Takahiro , Kakegawa Mikiko , Kusuhara Seiichiro , Sato Takashi , Nakahara Yoshiro , Hisashi Mitsufuji , Sasaki Jiichro , Naoki Katsuhiko
Published: October 2021

Objective: The clinical outcomes of poor performance status (PS) patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who are treated with osimertinib as a first-line treatment have not been sufficiently evaluated. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of osimertinib in chemotherapy-naive and poor PS (2 or more) patients with NSCLC harboring sensitive EGFR mutations.Materials and Methods: We assessed the clinical effects of osimertinib as a first-line treatment for patients with poor PS NSCLC with an exon 19 deletion or exon 21 L858R mutation in EGFR. All patients were administered osimertinib (80 mg/day) as the initial treatment.Results: Sixteen patients (nine women and seven men) who were treated between August 2018 and July 2021 were included in this study; their median age was 78 years. The overall objective response rate was 56.3%. The median progression-free survival (PFS) of the entire patient population was 10.5 months and the PS score improved in 8 of 16 patients (50%). The most common adverse event was acneiform rash (42%), followed by diarrhea (36%) and paronychia (36%); none of these were of grade ≥ 3. Interstitial lung disease occurred in 2 patients (12.5%); however, no treatment-related deaths occurred. Conclusion: Considering the findings of this study, osimertinib appears to be an effective and safe treatment option for patients with poor PS and advanced NSCLC harboring sensitive EGFR mutations. To obtain conclusive results, further studies with larger cohorts are warranted.
Phenotyping and Validation of Molecular Markers Associated With Rust Resistance Genes in Wheat Cultivars in Egypt
Authors: Elshafei Adel , El-Orabey Waled M , Fathallah Fathallah B. , Esmail Ramadan M. , Abou-Zeid Mohamed A.
Published: October 2021

Thirteen Egyptian wheat cultivars were evaluated and characterized for adult plant resistance (APR) to yellow, leaf, and stem rusts. Markers linked to yellow, leaf and stem rust resistance genes were validated and subsequently used to identify wheat cultivars containing more than one rust resistance gene. Results of the molecular marker detection indicated that several genes, either alone or in different combinations, were present among the wheat cultivars, including Yr, Yr78 (stripe rust), Lr, Lr70 (leaf rust), Sr. Sr33, SrTA10187, Sr13, and Sr35 (stem rust), and Lr34/Yr18 and Lr49/Yr29 (leaf/stripe rust). The cultivar Sakha-95 was resistant to leaf and stem rusts, and partially resistant to stripe rust; however, this cultivar contained additional rust resistance genes (Lr, Sr and Lr/Yr). The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) type for the various wheat cultivars differed depending on the type of rust infection (yellow, leaf, or stem rust, indicated by Yr, Lr, and Sr). The cultivars Gem-12, Sids-14, Giza-171, and Giza-168 had AUDPC types of partial resistance (PR) and resistance (R). All six cultivars, however, contained additional rust resistance genes.
Inhibition of Micro-pitting by Tribofilm-forming ZrO2 Nanocrystal Lubricant Additives: A Micro-pitting Rig and Transmission Electron Microscope Study
Authors: Lahouij Imène , Gould Benjamin , Demas Nicholaos G , Greco Aaron C , Chen Zhiyun , Cooper Gregory D , Jackson Andrew , Carpick Robert W
Published: October 2021

The drive to reduce fuel consumption in transportation has encouraged the emergence of low viscosity lubricants to reduce viscous losses in the engine, drivetrain, and other components. However, viscosity reduction increases the risk of surface damage, thus motivating the development of new anti-wear (AW) additives. Capped ZrO2 nanocrystals (NCs) in base oils have been shown to form AW tribofilms within microscale sliding contacts. However, the potential of ZrO2 NCs to protect surfaces subjected to rolling-sliding contact from macroscale damage, such as micro-pitting, remains unexplored. Here, we explore the ability of ZrO2 NCs to form protective tribofilms under harsh conditions using a micro-pitting rig (MPR), consisting of a three ring-on-roller configuration. The experiments were conducted in polyalphaolephin (PAO) base oil, with and without 5 nm diameter ZrO2 NCs, at two levels of slide-to-roll ratio (SRR) (30% and 0%) and at variable test durations up to long durations (119 hours). MPR results showed the use of ZrO2 NCs gives rise to the formation of a tribofilm covering the roller surfaces and decreases the initiation and propagation of micro-pits compared to tests in pure PAO base stock. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) performed on focused ion beam (FIB) milled cross-sectional samples of the roller surfaces revealed the growth of dense and 50- 100 nm thick ZrO2-based tribofilms independent of (SRR), indicating the potential for robust micro-pitting fatigue protection. Nevertheless, small cracks localized within the near surface region of the roller tested at the most severe conditions (30% SRR and 119 hours) were observed. The initiation of these cracks was directly related to the presence of manganese sulphide (MnS) inclusions in the steel, revealed using TEM combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results highlight the benefits of the protective tribofilms formed by ZrO2 NCs and suggest approaches for further optimizing their use.
Numerical Modelling of Reinjection And Tracer Transport In A Shallow Aquifer, Nesjavellir Geothermal System, Iceland
Authors: Gomez-Diaz Esteban , Scott Samuel , Ratouis Thomas , Newson Juliet
Published: October 2021

Reinjection of excess water from the power production process in Nesjavellir geothermal field has increased the temperature of the shallow groundwaters, posing a risk to cold water wells used for the power plant as well as the ecosystem in Lake Thingvellir. Here, we present a numerical model of the fluid flow and heat transport in the re-injection zone to elucidate the flow path of reinjected liquid and the impact of reinjection on the temperature of groundwaters. The permeability model is based on a 3D geological model of the area and the numerical simulation is calibrated against underground water temperature data measured between 1998-2018 and also data from a tracer test data performed in 2018-2019. We find that the dual-porosity approach is necessary to reproduce the fast and high tracer returns measured in some wells. The model reproduces the overall temperature field and shows how rift-parallel normal faults act as permeable channels controlling fluid transport. If injection continues, the temperature along the lava field increases considerably and spreads vertically to much deeper levels, generating a narrow warm zone along the main fault. If shallow injection ceases, the temperature drops rapidly at the surface, but around the reinjection zone temperatures decrease slowly and the subsurface temperature anomaly remains for the next 20 years. The numerical model in this study allowed a better characterization of the fracture matrix interface and the porosity of postglacial lava flows providing solutions for sustainable water management of the geothermal resource and the surrounding environment.
DNA methylation marker to estimate ovarian cancer cell fraction
Authors: Ebata Takahiro , Yamashita Satoshi , Takeshima Hideyuki , Yoshida Hiroshi , Kawata Yoshiko , Kino Nao , Yasugi Toshiharu , Terao Yasuhisa , Yonemori Kan , Kato Tomoyasu , Ushijima. Toshikazu
Published: October 2021

Evaluation of cancer cell fraction is important for accurate molecular analysis, and pathological analysis is the gold standard for evaluation. Despite the potential convenience, no established molecular marker for evaluation is available. In this study, we aimed to identify ovarian cancer cell fraction markers using DNA methylation highly specific to ovarian cancer cells. Using genome-wide DNA methylation data, we screened candidate marker genes methylated in 30 ovarian cancer FFPE samples and 14 high-grade serous ovarian cancer cell lines and unmethylated in two female leucocytes and two normal fallopian epithelial cell samples. Methylation levels of three genes, PALLD, SIM1, and ZNF154, showed high correlations with pathological cancer cell fractions among the 30 ovarian cancer FFPE samples (R = 0.56 for PALLD, 0.61 for SIM1, 0.71 for ZNF154). For cost-effective analysis of FFPE samples, pyrosequencing primers were designed, and successfully established for SIM1 and ZNF154. Correlation between pathological cancer cell fraction and methylation levels obtained by pyrosequencing was confirmed to be high (R = 0.52 for SIM1, 0.64 for ZNF154). Finally, an independent validation cohort of 20 ovarian cancer FFPE samples was analyzed. ZNF154 methylation showed a high correlation with the pathological cancer cell fraction (R = 0.81, P < 0.0001), and SIM1 methylation retained its correlation (R = 0.50, P = 0.03). Therefore, the ZNF154 methylation level was considered to be useful for the estimation of ovarian cancer cell fraction, and is expected to help accurate molecular analysis. (237 words < 250 words)
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Results for Patients With 10-19 Versus ≥20 Brain Metastases: Retrospective Studies of 1482 Cohort and 936 Matched Patients (JLGK2107 Study)
Authors: Yamamoto Masaaki , Serizawa Toru , Sato Yasunori , Higuchi Yoshinori , Kasuya Hidetoshi
Published: October 2021

Background and purpose

The role of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for patients with ≥20 brain metastases (BMs) is not fully understood as yet. We compared SRS treatment results for ≥20 versus 10-19 BMs.
Materials and methods

This IRB-approved, retrospective cohort study used our prospectively accumulated database including 1482 patients (906 with 10-19 BMs, 576 with ≥20 BMs) treated with gamma knife SRS during a 20-year period (1998-2018).
Results

Because there was considerable bias in pre-SRS clinical factors between the two groups, a case-matched study was conducted and 936 (468 in each of the two groups) patients were selected for this study. The post-SRS median survival time in patients with ≥20 BMs, 5.9 (95% CI; 5.1-6.8) months, was the same as that in patients with 10-19 BMs, 5.9 (95% CI; 5.2-7.2) months. Crude and cumulative incidences of neurological death, neurological deterioration, local recurrence, repeat SRS, salvage whole brain radiotherapy and SRS-related complications, as determined by competing risk analyses, did not differ significantly between the two tumor number groups. Univariable analyses of these 1482 patients demonstrated female gender, Karnofsky Performance Status ≥80%, neurologically asymptomatic, synchronous presentation, controlled primary cancer and no extra-cerebral metastases to be factors significantly favoring longer survival in both the 10-19 and the ≥20 BM groups. To minimize the complication risk, either cumulative or the largest BM volume ≤10 mL and minimum dose ≤20.00 Gy should be taken in consideration when planning treatment.
Conclusions

We conclude that carefully-selected patients with ≥20 tumors are not unfavorable candidates for SRS alone.
REA: Resource Exergy Analysis - A basic guideline for application
Authors: Jentsch Andrej
Published: October 2021

This publication provides a basic guideline to the application of Resource Exergy Analysis (REA). REA is an application of exergy analysis to the field of technology comparison. REA aims to help decision makers to obtain an indicator in addition to GHG emissions, that is grounded in science. Resource exergy consumption can replace the less comprehensive primary energy consumption as an indictor and reduce the risk of suboptimal decisions.
Transcriptomic Analyses Provide Insight Into Adventitious Root Formation of Euryodendron Excelsum H. T. Chang During Ex Vitro Rooting
Authors: Xiong Yuping , Zeng Songjun , Chen Shuangyan , Wei Zhenpeng , Chen Xiaohong , Guo Beiyi , Zhang Ting , Yin Yuying , Yu Xincheng , Pang Jinhui , Niu Meiyun , Zhang Xinhua , Li Yuan , Wu Kunlin , Fang Lin , Silva Jaime A. Teixeira da , Ma Guohua
Published: October 2021

Euryodendron excelsum H. T. Chang, a critically endangered species endemic to China, is a source of valuable material for the furniture and construction industries. However, this species has some challenges associated with rooting during in vitro propagation that have yet to be resolved. In this study, we optimized rooting and conducted a transcriptomic analysis to appreciate its molecular mechanism, thereby promoting the practical application of in vitro propagation of E. excelsum, and providing technical support for the ecological protection of this rare and endangered species. Results showed that ex vitro rooting performed the highest rooting percentage with 98.33% at 25 d. During ex vitro rooting, there was a wide fluctuation of endogenous levels of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at the stage of root primordia formation. Transcriptome analysis revealed multiple differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in AR development. DEGs involved in plant hormone signal transduction, such as genes encoding auxin-induced protein, auxin-responsive protein, and IAA-amido synthetase Gretchen Hagen3, and in response to H2O2, oxidative stress, abiotic and biotic stimuli were significantly up- or down-regulated by ex vitro treatment with 1 mM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). Our results indicate that ex vitro rooting is an effective method to induce AR from E. excelsum plantlets during micropropagation. DEGs involved in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway played a crucial role in AR formation. H2O2, produced by environmental stimulation, might be related to AR induction as a result of the synergistic action with IBA, ultimately regulating the level of endogenous IAA.
An Autism Spectrum Disorder Adaptive Identification Based on the Elimination of Brain Connections: A Proof of Long-Range Underconnectivity
Authors: Benabdallah Fatima zahra , Maliani Ahmed Drissi El , Lotfi Dounia , Jennane Rachid , hassouni Mohammed El
Published: October 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is theoretically characterized by alterations in functional connectivity between brain regions. Many works presented approaches to determine informative patterns that help to predict autism from typical development. However, most of the proposed pipelines are not specifically designed for the autism problem, i.e they do not corroborate with autism theories about functional connectivity. In this paper, we propose a framework that takes into account the properties of local connectivity and long range under-connectivity in the autistic brain. The originality of the proposed approach is to adopt elimination as a technique in order to well emerge the autistic brain connectivity alterations, and show how they contribute to differentiate ASD from controls. Experimental results conducted on the large multi-site Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE) show that our approach provides accurate prediction up to 70% and succeeds to prove the existence of deficits in the long-range connectivity in the ASD subjects brains.
Formability Enhancement of Ultra-Fine Grained Pure Copper Sheets Produced by Accumulative Roll Bonding Aided by Electromagnetic Forming
Authors: afrasiab Mohammad , Hojjat Yousef , Faraji Ghader , Naeini Hassan Moslemi
Published: October 2021

Accumulative roll bonding (ARB) is a new and cost-effective process for the production of ultrafine-grained sheets by applying severe plastic deformation. Various mechanical properties of sheets improve after ARB process. However, the material formability severely decreases in the ARBed sheets restricting their usage in industrial applications. The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of the high strain rates on the formability improvement of ultrafine-grained sheets manufactured by the ARB process. For this purpose, the electromagnetic forming (EMF) has been performed for applying high strain rates on ARBed pure copper sheets and its capability to resolve the low toughness issue of the ultrafine-grained products of the ARB process has been investigated. In the first step, several sheet samples have been subjected to one, two, and three ARB passes, and their mechanical properties such as microhardness, mechanical strength, and formability have been determined after each pass. The results have indicated a substantial increase in the sheets hardness and mechanical strength and a significant decrease in their formability especially after the first pass. Afterwards, the Nakazima test and the EMF have been used to form the ARBed sheet samples in the quasi-static and high strain rate conditions and then the forming limit diagram and formability of formed samples have been compared in these conditions. It has been found that the formability of the one-, two-, and three-pass ARBed sheets in plane strain conditions have been, respectively, increased 102%, 113%, and 99% in the high strain rate with respect to the quasi-static condition.
Double Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound for the Preoperative Gross Classification of Gastric Cancer: a Comparison With Multidetector Computed Tomography
Authors: He Ping , Zeng Lan , Miao Liying , Wang Tianli , Ye Juxiang , Meng Lingmei , Xue Heng , Zhang Fan , Zhao Bo , Ge Huiyu
Published: October 2021

Purpose To compare the diagnostic performance of double contrast-enhanced ultrasound (DCEUS) and multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) in the gross classification of gastric cancer (GC) preoperatively. Methods 54 patients with GC proved by histology were included in this study. The sensitivity and specificity of DCEUS and MDCT for gross classification were calculated and compared. The area under the curve (AUC) from a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to evaluate the difference of the diagnostic performance between these two methods.Results There were no significant differences between DCEUS and MDCT in terms of AUC values for early gastric cancer (EGC) and Borrmann Ⅰ-Ⅲ (P = 0.248, 0.317, 0.717 and 0.464, respectively). However, the sensitivities of DCEUS for EGC, Borrmann Ⅰ and Borrmann Ⅲ were higher than those of MDCT (75% versus 62%; 100% versus 50%; 90% versus 73%). The specificity of DCEUS for Borrmann Ⅲ was lower than that of MDCT (50% versus 75%). The AUC value of MDCT for Borrmann Ⅳ was significantly higher than that of DCEUS (0.927 versus 0.625; P=0.001). The accuracy and specificity of DCEUS and MDCT for Borrmann Ⅳ were similar, but the sensitivity of MDCT was significantly higher than that of DCEUS (88% versus 25%).Conclusion DCEUS may be considered as a useful complementary imaging modality to MDCT for the evaluation of the gross classification of GC preoperatively.
Five Year Trends in the Utilization of Robotic Bariatric Surgery Procedures, United States 2015-2019
Authors: Marroquin Elisa M , Khatiwada Shreeya , Xie Luyu , Cruz-Muñoz Nestor de la , Kukreja Sachin , Schneider Benjamin , Qureshi Faisal , Messiah Sarah E.
Published: October 2021

Background: To evaluate the national 5-year utilization trends and outcomes in robotic metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS).Study design: Retrospective analysis of 2015-2019 MBSAQIP data. Kruskal-Wallis test/Wilcoxon rank-sum test and generalized linear models were used to compare continuous/categorical variables. Chi square tests were used to compared robotic versus laparoscopic approaches.Results: The use of robotic MBS increased from 6.2% in 2015 to 13.5% in 2019 (N= 775,258). Robotic MBS patients had marginally higher age, body mass index, and likelihood of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, renal insufficiency, gastroesophageal reflux, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnea, vena cava filter, coronary angioplasty, anticoagulation therapy, mobility devices, and dependency, but lower organ transplantations compared to laparoscopic patients. Robotic MBS patients showed higher 30-day reinterventions and readmissions alongside a longer surgery time (26-38 min).Conclusion: Robotic MBS shows higher reintervention and readmission rates which could be driven by the higher baseline comorbidity rates of this group.
Amanita sect. Phalloideae: Two Interesting Non-Lethal Species from West Africa
Authors: Codjia Jean Evans Israel , Wang Pan Meng , Ryberg Martin , Yorou Nourou S. , Yang Zhu L.
Published: October 2021

The members of Amanita sect. Phalloideae (Fr.) Quél. are responsible of a lot of fatalities worldwide. However, a limited number of species in this section were described as non-lethal because of the lack of deadly toxins. Sequences of species belonging to the section from tropical Africa, America, Asia, Australia, and Europe were involved in this study. Sequences of five genes (ITS, nrLSU, RPB2 , TEF1-α , β-tubulin ) were used to elucidate the phylogenetic affinities among the species. The results indicated that the section has three subclades, one lethal subclade (subclade I) and two non-lethal subclades (subclade II and subclade III). Moreover, two non-lethal species from tropical Africa, namely A. ballerinoides and A. bulbulosa were newly described based on both morphology and molecular approaches. Phylogenetically, they cluster in the same subclade (subclade III) with other known non-lethal amanitas, including A. ballerina, A. chuformis, A. franzii, A. levistriata, and A. pseudogemmata . Neither amatoxins nor phallotoxins were detected in A. ballerinoides and A. bulbulosa by LC-HRMS, which agree with their placements in the non-lethal subclade III within A. sect. Phalloideae . Finally, a key to the West African species of Amanita sect. Phalloideae is provided.
Identification of SNP Markers Associated With Pyrenophora Teres f. Maculata Resistance/susceptibility Loci in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Amezrou Reda , Rehman Sajid , Verma Ramesh Pal Singh , Brueggeman Robert S , Belquadi Loubna , Arbaoui Mustapha , Gyawali Sanjaya
Published: October 2021

Spot form of net blotch (SFNB), caused by the necrotrophic fungus Pyrenophora teres f. maculata (Ptm), is considered one of the emerging and devastating foliar diseases of barley. Deployment of host resistance against this pathogen remains one of the most effective strategies for its sustainable management. The SFNB resistance in a panel of 336 diverse barley genotypes (AM-2014) was evaluated against three isolates (FGO-Ptm [USA], SM4-2 [Morocco], and SM30-1 [Morocco]), at the seedling stage and under natural conditions in seven environments in Morocco at the adult-plant stage. We identified nine barley genotypes that confer high SFNB resistance in at least five distinct environments and against two isolates. The AM-2014 panel was genotyped with 9K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) using an Illumina Infinium select assay. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were carried out using mixed linear models accounting for population structure as covariates. Significant marker-trait associations were subject to false discovery rate (FDR) at q<0.05. At the seedling stage, we identified 23 isolate-specific loci associated with SFNB resistance/susceptibility. At the adult stage, 19 QTLs were detected. Fourteen of the identified QTL corresponded to previously mapped SFNB resistance QTL, including QRpts4, QRpt6, QRpt7, and SFNB-3H-58.64, while the remaining may represent novel loci. Together, the associated SNPs and resistance sources identified in this study will be useful resources for SFNB resistance breeding.
Antigenic and Histopathologic Searching with Molecular Characterization and Identification of BPIV3 in Cattle with Symptoms of Respiratory System Infection
Authors: KÜÇÜK Ali , Yıldırım Yakup
Published: October 2021

Parainfluenza virus is one of the viral agents causing crucial respiratory system diseases in cattle. In this study, we aimed to determine the role and genotype of BPIV3 in circulation in respiratory system diseases in cattle. For this purpose, analyses by molecular and virological ways were applied on the samples taken. During the study, a total of 570 samples as nasal swabs, conjunctival swabs and leukocyte from 190 cattle of various race, age and gender not vaccinated against the agent with symptoms of respiratory system infection were taken. Inoculums prepared from swab samples for virus isolation were planted into MDBK cell lines using adsorption method, their blind passages were performed for two times but BPIV3 could not be isolated. As a result of RT-PCR technique applied on 570 samples for molecular diagnosis, viral genome was detected in two nasal swab samples while nucleic acid could not be found in conjunctival and leukocyte samples. As a result of the sequence analysis applied on one of these samples, the agent was proved to exist in BPIV3 genotype. In addition, as a result of DIF antibody staining test applied on preparates prepared from 380 nasal and conjunctival swab samples, antigenic structures belonging to the agent were seen in 6 swab samples while virological diagnosis could not be performed in conjunctival swab samples. In two samples where viral genome presence was detected, virological diagnosis was performed by DIF test. Histopathological studies were carried out on a lung tissue sample of an animal found with molecular and virological BPIV3. At the end of these studies, some pathological findings were revealed such as septal tissue thickening indigenous to pneumonia cases and inflammatory cell infiltrations. This study has stated that in cattle with respiratory system infection in southwest regions of Turkey, PIV3 is an etiological agent and the BPIV3 genotype C of the agent is in circulation.
Structural, Optical and Electrical Properties of Copper Doped Alkali Borate Glasses
Authors: G Srinivas , Srini Boora , Komaraiah D. , Shareefuddin Md. , Sayanna R. , Samudrala Raj Kumar
Published: October 2021

The compositional effect on Physical properties, Optical absorption and Electrical properties of glass composition xK2O - (25-x) Li2O-12.5BaO-12.5MgO-49B2O3-1CuO (x =0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25mol %) was prepared by the melt-quenching technique. From optical absorption spectra few parameters, like Urbach energy, indirect allowed, reflection loss (R), refractive index (n), molar polarizability(αm) molar refractivity (Rm), and theoretical optical basicity (Λth) values of prepared glass samples were measured. The values of Rm, αm, and Λth were increase with increasing of x mol%. The Eopt, R, and n values were changed very small with x mol%, which may be due to the non-bridging oxygen’s moments in the glass matrix. The FTIR spectrum of prepared borate glasses indicates that the influence of BO3 and BO4 units of boron atoms. The explicit vibrational peaks were exhibited of Li–O, K–O, Mg–O, and Ba–O bonds in glass network, and A.C conductivity study was devised to know the structural information about the glass network. The drastic change in the ionic conductivity as a function of the alkali content in the glass composition was analyzed by considering both the ionic mobility and the glass structure. Some physical, optical, and electrical values varied non-linearly with the K2O content, which may influence of non- bridging oxygens or mixed alkali effect.