bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Singularity Detection on Forbush Decrease at High Latitude Stations During Geomagnetic Disturbances
Authors: Mishra Roshan Kumar , Silwal Ashok , Baral Rabin , Adhikari Binod , Braga Carlos Roberto , Gautam Sujan Prasad , Das Priyanka Kumari , Migoya-Orue Yenca
Published: May 2021

We analyzed the behavior of Cosmic Ray (CR) intensity during geomagnetic events of different nature and strength, using ground-based CR measurements from the World Neutron Monitoring Stations Network. We took account of interplanetary triggers and the geo-effectiveness while choosing the events. Forbush Decrease (FD) was observed when the magnetic fields entangled in and around CME exerts a shielding effect on galactic cosmic radiation, causing a sudden reduction of count rate in the neutron monitors. The results revealed that the FD plunged between -4% and -20% in the chosen events. The FD examined was abnormal and a multi-stage decrement in FD was observed during the event period. The reduction in Cosmic ray intensity was found to be inversely proportional to the cut - off rigidity at the specified neutron monitoring stations. Furthermore, we have also used the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) technique to detect singularity on Forbush decrease at the stations described. The first three decomposition levels have proved sufficient to isolate singularity patterns associated with Forbush decrease in conjunction with events of different nature and intensity, ranging from intense geomagnetic storm to super intense geomagnetic storm to HILDCAA event. Also, we found that the cosmic ray flux was correlated with the IMF-Bz values and the SYM-H index during the process, as indicated by the cross-correlation technique. No noticeable lag has been found between the parameters discussed, which indicates a clear correlation between the IMF Bz and the SYM-H index and the FD.
Climate-smart, 3-D protected areas in the high seas
Authors: Morales Isaac Brito , Schoeman David , Klein Carissa , Dunn Daniel , Everett Jason , Molinos Jorge García , Burrows Michael T. , Dominguez Rosa Mar , Possingham Hugh , Richardson Anthony
Published: May 2021

Marine species are moving rapidly in response to warming, often in different directions and with variations by location and depth. This poses challenges to conventional reserve design. We develop a three-dimensional planning approach for the high seas that conserves biodiversity, minimises exposure to climate change, retains species within reserve boundaries, and reduces fishing conflict. Resultant climate-smart networks cover 11% of the high seas (5% of the ocean) and represent low-regret conservation options that are the first places to designate as new high-seas marine reserves. With the current push to increase the area of ocean under protection to 30%, we must confront the challenges of climate-smart three-dimensional conservation in the 41% of the ocean that is beyond countries’ jurisdictions.
Development of a Mathematical Model for Calculating Accumulated Solid Waste: An Experimental and Statistical Sampling
Authors: Alare Taiwo , Alare Kehinde
Published: May 2021

In newest development, waste is being refined into a biofuel or recycled. Waste management has being an important factor in community development. The transformation of waste into useful materials has received much work. Therefore, database must be developed to know the amount of waste accumulated or generated over a given period of time. Taken into consideration the burning and recycle reduction factor, incremental factor and degradable waste ratio. This paper look for a mathematical formula that can be used to generate data for amount of solid waste accumulated over time for geographical location in respect of mass.
Effect of Hydrogen Gas Inhalation on Patient QOL After Hepatectomy: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kaibori Masaki , Kosaka Hisashi
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Molecular hydrogen had been considered inactive in vivo but is an antioxidant that selectively reduces highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). Animal studies have reported that hydrogen gas inhalation helped alleviate cerebral and cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injuries. In humans, hydrogen inhalation therapy is presently approved as a treatment under Advanced Medical Care B in Japan (jRCTs031180352: limited to adult patients who suffered out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and are in a continuous coma) and its effectiveness is being examined in a clinical trial. The Japanese government has introduced the “Advanced Medical Care System” to promote the development of drugs and devices under governmental regulations. Advanced Medical Care B is a system designed for unapproved or off-label drugs or medical technologies used in a clinical trial setting. Hepatectomy is generally performed with repeated hepatic blood-flow occlusion and then reperfusion (ischemia and reperfusion). No report, however, has been made on ROS inhibition by hydrogen inhalation therapy or its effectiveness in post-hepatectomy patients. Hydrogen gas inhalation in the early stages after hepatectomy is anticipated to inhibit liver dysfunction by inhibiting ROS.Methods and analysis: This study is a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial which will be conducted as a “specified clinical trial” in accordance with the Clinical Trials Act in Japan. The subjects will be patients who will undergo hepatectomy and will be allocated randomly into group A with hydrogen gas inhalation or group B with air inhalation after hepatectomy. The study will examine if hydrogen gas inhalation improves QOL of post-hepatectomy patients. The primary endpoint is patient QOL (score of a 40-item quality of recovery questionnaire, QoR40) on postoperative day 3 and the secondary endpoints are QoR40s besides that on postoperative day 3, grade of postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo score), level of pain (NRS: Numerical Rating Scale), amount of dietary intake, liver function, inflammation level, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (urinary 8-OHdG) level, and number of pedometer-assessed steps.Ethics and dissemination: The protocol has been approved by the Niigata University Central Review Board of Clinical Research. The findings of this study will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.Trial registration number: jRCTs No. 03220332. Approved on 21 January 2021.
A “shuttle-relay” lithium metal battery enabled by heteroatom-based gel polymer electrolyte
Authors: Wu Junru , Devaraj Shanmukaraj , Wang Xianshu , Liu Qi , Wang Shuwei , Zhou Dong , Kang Feiyu , Rojo Teófilo , Armand Michel , Li Baohua , Wang Guoxiu
Published: May 2021

Employing high-energy electrode couples and releasing the capacity of anions in the electrolyte are promising avenues to increase the energy density of existing lithium (Li)-based batteries. Herein, we develop a “shuttle-relay” Li metal battery (SRLMB) based on a hybrid Li-rich oxide cathode with graphite as conductive agent and a heteroatom-based gel polymer electrolyte (HGPE). The HGPE was facilely prepared by polymerizing diethyl allyl phosphate (DAP) monomer in-situ in an all-fluorinated electrolyte, which features high ionic conductivity, high oxidation stability up to 5.5 V vs. Li/Li+, high safety, and superior compatibility with Li metal (a plating/striping Coulombic efficiency of 99.7 %). When applied to SRLMBs, this quasi-solid-state electrolyte enables a reversible insertion of hexafluorophosphate (PF6−) anions into the conductive graphite after the stripping of Li ions from Li-rich oxide, thus improving the overall energy density of batteries. Our findings provide new insights into the upgrading of Li-based battery technology.
Monoclonal Antibody Against Sortilin Induces Apoptosis in Human Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: simonian miganoosh , Ghaffari Mozhan Haji , Salimi Ali , Mirzadegan Ebrahim , Sadeghi Niloufar , Ebrahimnezhad Nasim , Fazli Ghazaleh , Fatemi Ramina , Bayat Ali-Ahmad , Negahdari Babak , Rabbani Hodjattallah
Published: May 2021

Sortilin has an important role to play in various malignances and can be used as a promising target to eradicate cancer cells. The expression of sortilin in 4T1 and MDA-MB231 was evaluated by flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry. Apoptosis test was also performed. Based on cell surface flow cytometry results 2D8-E3 mAb could recognize sortilin molecules in 45.9% and 90.3% of 4T1 and MDA-MB231 cells respectively. The immunocytochemistry staining results verified sortilin surface expression. Apoptosis assay indicated that 2D8-E3 mAb could induce apoptosis in 4T1 and MDA-MB231 cell lines. Our study revealed the important role of surface sortilin in breast carcinoma cell survival and its possible usage as a therapeutic agent in cancer targeted therapies.
High-wearable EEG-Based Detection of Emotional Valence for Scientific Measurement of Emotions
Authors: Apicella Andrea , Arpaia Pasquale , Mastrati Giovanna , Moccaldi Nicola
Published: May 2021

An emotional-valence detection method for a very–high wearable EEG-based system is proposed. Valence detection occurs along the interval scale theorized by the circumplex model of emotions. The binary choice, positive valence vs negative valence, represents a first step towards the adoption of a metric scale with a finer resolution. Wearability is guaranteed by a wireless cap with conductive-rubber dry electrodes and 8 data acquisition channels. Experimental validation was realized on 25 volunteers without depressive disorders. The metrological reference was built by combining the rating of a standardized set of pictures from dataset Oasis and results from the Self Assessment Manikin questionnaire. Two different strategies for feature extraction were compared: (i) based on a-priory knowledge (i.e. Hemispheric Asymmetry Theories) and (ii) automated. A pipeline of a custom 12-band Filter Bank and Common Spatial Pattern algorithm is the method proposed for automated feature extraction. Four machine learning classifiers were tested for validating the proposed method in discriminating two classes (high or low emotional valence). An intra-individual average accuracy, 96.2 %, was obtained by a shallow artificial neural network, while K-Nearest Neighbors allowed obtaining 80.3 % of inter-individual accuracy. Considering the wearability, and the well-founded metrological reference, results are the state of the art in emotional valence detection.
Albumin Levels Predict Mortality In Sepsis Patients With Acute Kidney Injury Undergoing Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy: A Secondary Analysis Based On A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sheng Song , Huang Ye
Published: May 2021

Background Albumin (ALB) levels are negatively associated with mortality in patients with sepsis. However, among sepsis patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), there has been no similar study on the correlation between ALB levels and mortality alone. This study tested the hypothesis that ALB levels are negatively associated with mortality among such patients. Methods We conducted a secondary analysis of 794 patients with sepsis who were diagnosed with AKI and underwent CRRT in South Korea. For the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, Cox proportional hazards models were used to study the hypotheses, with adjustments for the pertinent covariables. Results The ALB level was an independent prognostic factor for death at 28 and 90 days after CRRT initiation (HR=0.75, 95% CI: 0.62–0.90, P=0.0024 for death at 28 days and HR=0.73, 95% CI: 0.63–0.86, P<0.0001 for death at 90 days). A nonlinear association was not identified between ALB levels and the endpoints. Subgroup analyses and tests for interactions indicated that patients with low HCO3 levels (<22 mmol/L) had a higher rate of death at 28 days (P for interaction=0.0235), and there was a significantly increased mortality at 90 days among patients with high CRP levels (P for interaction=0.0195). Conclusion A 1 g/dL increase in ALB levels was independently associated with a 25% and 27% decrease in the risk of death at 28 and 90 days, respectively. It is feasible to predict mortality using ALB levels in sepsis patients with AKI undergoing CRRT.
An Economic Evaluation of Triage Tools For Patients With Suspected Severe Injuries In England
Authors: Pollard Daniel , Fuller Gordon , Goodacre Steve , Rein Eveline A. J. van , Job F. Waalwijk , Heijl Mark van
Published: May 2021

BackgroundMany health care systems triage injured patients to major trauma centres (MTCs) or local hospitals by using triage tools and paramedic judgement. Triage tools are typically assessed by whether patients with an Injury Severity Score (ISS)≥16 go to an MTC and whether patients with an ISS<16 are sent to their local hospital. There is a trade‐off between sensitivity and specificity of triage tools, with the optimal balance being unknown. We conducted an economic evaluation of major trauma triage tools to identify which tool would be considered cost-effective by UK decision makers.MethodsA patient-level, probabilistic, mathematical model of a UK major trauma system was developed. Patients with an ISS≥16 who were only treated at local hospitals had worse outcomes compared to being treated in an MTC. Nine empirically derived triage tools, from a previous study, were examined so we assessed triage tools with realistic trade-offs between triage tool sensitivity and specificity. Lifetime costs, lifetime quality adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated for each tool and compared to maximum acceptable ICERs (MAICERs) in England. ResultsFour tools had ICERs within the normal range of MAICERs used by English decision makers (£20,000 to £30,000 per QALY gained). A low sensitivity (28.4%) and high specificity (88.6%) would be cost-effective at the lower end of this range while higher sensitivity (87.5%) and lower specificity (62.8%) was cost-effective towards the upper end of this range. These results were sensitive to the cost of MTC admissions and whether MTCs had a benefit for patients with an ISS between 9 and 15. ConclusionsThe cost-effective triage tool depends on the English decision maker’s MAICER for this health problem. In the usual range of MAICERs, cost-effective prehospital trauma triage involves clinically suboptimal sensitivity, with a proportion of seriously injured patients (at least 10%) being initially transported to local hospitals. High sensitivity trauma triage requires development of more accurate decision rules; research to establish if patients with an ISS between 9 and 15 benefit from MTCs; or, inefficient use of health care resources to manage patients with less serious injuries at MTCs.
Assessment of Factors Affecting Inactivated COVID-19 (CORONAVAC) Vaccine Response and Antibody Response in Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Özdemir Hülya Özkan , Tosun Selma , COŞKUNER Seher Ayten , Demir Seval
Published: May 2021

BackgroundAlthough COVID-19 pandemic Phase III trial results of many vaccines were reported, the literature about community results is inadequate. This study aims to evaluate the experience gained during the vaccination process of healthcare workers (HCW), the measured antibody responses and the factors affecting the response, and to contribute to the literature in this field by presenting the data. MethodAnti-RBD anti-SARS Cov2 IgG antibodies were measured by the ELISA method in blood samples taken at least a month after the second vaccine from 264 HCW vaccinated twice with an interval of 28 days. Information from individuals were collected with an online participation form. Results264 HCW (166 females (63%), 98 males (37%)) were included in the study whose age are between 23-69 (mean 44.22 ± 11.58). After vaccination, 22 (8.3%) were unresponsive, 25 (9.5%) had weak response, and 217 (82.2%) had a response. The overall rate of weak response and the high response was 91.6%. In our study, that the antibody response was found to be statistically significantly lower in males (p: 0.022), there was a significant decrease in antibody response with advanced age (p <0.005), and the difference was highly significant (p: 0.0005) above the age of 60.ConclusionIn this study, 91.6% anti spike antibodies were detected with CoronaVac which an inactivated vaccine and the antibody response is was lower in cases of advanced age, male gender, not having COVID-19, not developing PVAE, and having pandemic H1N1 vaccine.
Crystalline Structure Analysis of All-cellulose Nanocomposites Films Based on Corn and Wheat Straw
Authors: BIAN Hongxia , Yang Yanyan , Tu Peng
Published: May 2021

The cellulose and nanocellulose which was extracted from corn straw and wheat straw was used to fabricate all-cellulose nanocomposites film (ANF). The crystal structure (CS) of ANFs was analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR). The result shows that cellulose-I and cellulose-II are coexisting within regenerated cellulose films (RCF) and ANFs and can transfer each other with the change of nanocellulose content. The characteristics of cellulose transformation depend on the raw material and preparing method of cellulose. When cellulose is prepared from corn straw, under two preparing methods, the cellulose type tends to transform from cellulose-I to cellulose-II with low nanocellulose content and transform from cellulose-II to cellulose-I with high nanocellulose content. However, when cellulose is prepared from wheat straw, under extracting methods, the cellulose type tends to transform from cellulose-I to cellulose-II with nanocellulose content increase; under acid-alkali methods, the transformation is from cellulose-II to cellulose-I. The crystalline index (CI) of RCFs and ANFs is no obvious regularity, and the either content of cellulose-I or cellulose-II alone cannot determine the CI. Based on above result, the transformation characteristics of cellulose type should affect the property of ANFs, but further research methods and strategies are needed on what the effects are.
Construction of an MRI-based decision tree to differentiate autoimmune and autoinflammatory inner ear disease from chronic otomastoiditis with sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Lee Boeun , Bae Yun Jung , Choi Byung Yoon , Kim Hyojin , Choi Byung Se , Kim Jae Hyoung
Published: May 2021

Purpose Autoimmune and inner ear diseases (AIED/AID) are characterized by the symptom of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). To date, standardized diagnostic tools for AIED/AID are lacking, and clinically differentiating AIED/AID from chronic otomastoiditis (COM) with SNHL is challenging. This retrospective study aimed to construct an MRI-based decision tree using classification and regression tree (CART) analysis to distinguish AIED/AID from COM.Methods In total, 67 patients were enrolled between January 2004 and October 2019, comprising AIED/AID (n = 18), COM (n = 24), and control groups (n = 25). All patients underwent 3T temporal bone MRI, including post-contrast T1-weighted images (postT1WI) and post-contrast FLAIR images (postFLAIR). Two radiologists evaluated the presence of otomastoid effusion and inner ear contrast enhancement on MRI. A CART decision tree model was constructed using MRI features to differentiate AIED/AID from COM and control groups, and diagnostic performance was analyzed.Results High-intensity bilateral effusion (61.1%) and inner ear enhancement (postFLAIR, 93.8%; postT1WI, 61.1%) were the most common in the AIED/AID group. We constructed two CART decision tree models; the first used effusion amount as the first partitioning node and postT1WI-inner ear enhancement as the second node, whereas the second comprised two partitioning nodes with the degree of postFLAIR-enhancement of the inner ear. The first and second models enabled distinction of AIED/AID from COM with high specificity (100% and 94.3%, respectively).Conclusion The amount of effusion and degree of inner ear enhancement on MRI may facilitate the distinction between AIED/AID and COM with SNHL using decision tree models, thereby contributing to early diagnosis and intervention.
Comparative Analysis of Nutritional Quality of Dendrobium Officinale Kimura Et Migo After Transplantation of Artificially Cultivated Plants From South to North China During Different Growing Years
Authors: Guo Xiaohui , Zhang Shijing , Yan Ting , Yuan Guoqiang , Dai Yafeng , Dong Lanying , Wang Zengli
Published: May 2021

Background: Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo is a traditional functional food and medicinal plant in China. Due to low natural regeneration rates, habitat destruction, excessive collection and commercial trade, D. officinale is severely threatened, and commercial artificial-sheltered cultivation has been massively used to meet the needs of the market. Aim: To comprehensively compare the accumulation of nutritional compounds during 3-5 years of introduced, artificial-sheltered cultivation from southern to northern China.Methods: D. officinale of the same species were artificially cultivated in the southern traditional cultivation area, Anhui and the new northern cultivation area, Beijing. First, samples were collected in the third, fourth, and fifth years of growth, and nutritional quality indexes, including polysaccharides, alkaloids, flavonoids and total phenolic content, were determined. Second, an untargeted metabolomics method was used to investigate metabolic variations in D. officinale stems between Anhui and Beijing cultures in the fifth year.Results: After comparing the nutrient accumulation in different growing years, the idea harvest time was found in the third growing year in both cultivation areas. Of them, the contents of polysaccharides, flavonoids and total polyphenol were higher in cultivation in Anhui than Beijing, but the accumulation of alkaloid content was much lower in Anhui. The highest amount of polysaccharides of Dendrobium officinale was found in the three-year cultivation in Anhui, which reached 515.75 mg/g. When metabolites were analysed, a total of 272 metabolites were detected in the current study, including 27 up-regulated and 73 down-regulated metabolites in D. officinale cultivated in Beijing compared with samples from Anhui. Conclusion: D. officinale artificially and transplanted cultivated from southern to northern China showed some significant differences in the accumulation of nutrient compounds. Planting in northern China has some specific advantages, but the overall nutritional value is not as good as planting in southern China. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the nutrient profiles of D. officinale through artificial cultivation in different areas.
Estimation of Geographic Origin from Dust Using Plant DNA Metabarcoding
Authors: Lennartz Chelsea , Kurucar Joel , Coppola Stephen , Crager Janice , Bobrow Johanna , Bortolin Laura , Comolli James
Published: May 2021

Information obtained from the analysis of dust, particularly biological particles such as pollen, plant parts, and fungal spores, has great utility in forensic geolocation. As an alternative to manual microscopic analysis, we developed a pipeline that utilizes the environmental DNA (eDNA) from plants in dust samples to estimate previous sample location(s). The species of plant-derived eDNA within dust samples were identified using metabarcoding and their geographic distributions were then derived from occurrence records in the USGS Biodiversity in Service of Our Nation (BISON) database. The distributions for all plant species identified in a sample were used to generate a probabilistic estimate of the sample source. With settled dust collected at four U.S. sites over a 15-month period, we demonstrated positive regional geolocation (within 600 km 2 of the collection point) with 47.6% (20 of 42) of the samples analyzed. Attribution accuracy and resolution was dependent on the number of plant species identified in a dust sample, which was greatly affected by the season of collection. In dust samples that yielded a minimum of 20 identified plant species, positive regional attribution improved to 66.7% (16 of 24 samples). Using dust samples collected from 31 different U.S. sites, trace plant eDNA provided relevant regional attribution information on provenance in 32.2%. This demonstrated that analysis of plant eDNA in dust can provide an accurate estimate regional provenance within the U.S., and relevant forensic information, for a substantial fraction of samples analyzed.
Potential of Cell Tracking Velocimetry as an Economical and Portable Hematology Analyzer
Authors: Gómez-Pastora Jenifer , Kim James , Weigand Mitchell , Palmer Andre F. , Yazer Mark , Desai Payal C. , Zborowski Maciej , Chalmers Jeffrey J.
Published: May 2021

Anemia and iron deficiency continue to be the most prevalent nutritional disorders in the world, affecting billions of people in both developed and developing countries. The initial diagnosis of anemia is typically based on several markers, including red blood cell (RBC) count, hematocrit and total hemoglobin. Using modern hematology analyzers, erythrocyte parameters such as mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), etc. are also being used. However, most of these commercially available analyzers pose several disadvantages: they are expensive instruments that require significant bench space and are heavy enough to limit their use to a specific lab and leading to a delay in results, making them less practical as a point-of-care instrument that can be used for swift clinical evaluation. Thus, there is a need for a portable and economical hematology analyzer that can be used at the point of need. In this work, we evaluated the performance of a system referred to as the cell tracking velocimetry (CTV) to measure several hematological parameters from fresh human blood obtained from healthy donors. Our system, based on the paramagnetic behavior that methemoglobin containing RBCs experience when suspended in water after applying a magnetic field, uses a combination of magnets and microfluidics and has the ability to track the movement of thousands of red cells in a short period of time. This allows us to measure not only traditional RBC indices but also novel parameters that are only available for analyzers that assess erythrocytes on a cell by cell basis. As such, we report, for the first time, the use of our CTV as a hematology analyzer that is able to measure red cell volume or MCV, red cell hemoglobin mass or MCH, hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red cell distribution width (RDW) and the percentage of hypochromic cells, which is an indicator of insufficient marrow iron supply that reflects recent iron reduction. Our initial results indicate that most of the parameters measured with CTV are within the normal range for healthy adults. Only the parameters related to the red cell volume (primarily MCV and RDW) were outside the normal range. We observed significant discrepancies between the MCV measured by our technology (and also by an automated cell counter) and the manual MCV measured through the hematocrit obtained by packed cell volume method, which are attributed to the artifacts of plasma trapping and cell shrinkage. While there may be limitations for measuring MCV, this device offers a novel point of care instrument to provide rapid RBC parameters such as iron stores that are otherwise not rapidly available to the clinician. Thus, our CTV is a promising technology with the potential to be employed as an accurate, economical, portable and fast hematology analyzer after applying instrument-specific reference ranges or correction factors.
Effect of Magnesium Reduction Process on Oxygen Content of Pickling Niobium Powder
Authors: Wang Jingfeng , Liu Fang , Zhang Yue , Li Qinkui
Published: May 2021

Aiming at the problem of high oxygen content in industrial niobium powder, the oxygen reduction process of high oxygen niobium powder magnesium was studied. Based on the thermodynamic analysis of magnesium thermal reduction of niobium powder, the effects of reduction temperature, magnesium addition, reduction time and reduction atmosphere on oxygen content of pickling niobium powder were studied. The results show that: with the increase of magnesium addition, the oxygen content of pickling niobium powder gradually decreases to a certain value and then remains unchanged. In a certain temperature range (953k-1203k), with the increase of reduction temperature, the oxygen content of pickling niobium powder first decreases and then increases, and the best oxygen content is 356ppm at 1133k; with the extension of reduction time (2-6h), the oxygen content of pickling niobium powder first decreases and then remains unchanged. Finally, the oxygen content of pickled niobium powder is reduced to about 356 ppm at 400% Mg addition, 1133 K reduction temperature and 4 h reduction time.
Xuebijing Injection Affects the Dynamic Change of Metabolism in CLP-Induced Septic Rats
Authors: Liu Yanjuan , Zeng Qi , Xiao Wen , Chen Fang , Zou Lianhong , Liu Xiehong , Zhu Yimin , Jiang Yu
Published: May 2021

Xuebijing injection has been widely applied to treat sepsis. However, its roles in the dynamic change of metabolism in sepsis are still unknown. In our study, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) combined with multivariate statistical techniques was used to detect the metabolic change in septic rats with or without XBJ injection treatment. The KEGG pathway analysis was used to further analyze the related metabolic pathways in which the identified metabolites were involved. Based on the fold change, variable important in projection, and P value, we found 11, 33 and 26 differential metabolites in the sepsis group at 2, 6 and 12 hours post CLP, compared with the control group. Besides, we also found 32, 23 and 28 differential metabolites in the XBJ group at 2, 6 and 12 hours post CLP. The related pathways of differential metabolites were glycometabolism at 2h, glycometabolism and amino acid metabolism at 6h and amino acid metabolism at 12h post CLP in the sepsis group compared with the control group. Besides, glycometabolism, amino acid metabolism and lipid metabolism changed markedly after XBJ injection for 2 hours; while only amino acid metabolism changed significantly with the treatment of XBJ injection for 6 and 12 hours, compared with the sepsis group. Further analysis showed 3, 6 and 6 differential metabolites were overlapped in the sepsis group and XBJ group at 2, 6 and 12 hours post CLP. These identified differential metabolites were majorly involved in arginine and proline metabolism, suggesting that XBJ injection is capable of improving metabolic disorders in CLP-induced septic rat to a certain extent.
Proof of Concept of a Multimodal Intravital Molecular Imaging System for Tumour Transpathology Investigation
Authors: Liu Zhen , Cheng Tao , Düwel Stephan , Jian Ziying , Topping Geoffrey J. , Steiger Katja , Wang Qian , Braren Rickmer , Reder Sybille , Mittelhäuser Markus , Hundshammer Christian , Feuerecker Benedikt , Huang Sung-Cheng , Schwaiger Markus , Schilling Franz , Ziegler Sibylle , Shi Kuangyu
Published: May 2021

Background: Transpathology highlights the interpretation of underlying physiology behind molecular imaging. However, it remains challenging due to the discrepancies between in vivo and in vitro measurements and difficulties of precise co-registration between multi-scaled images. This study aims to develop a multimodal intravital molecular imaging (MIMI) system as a tool for in vivo tumour transpathology investigation.Methods: The proposed MIMI system integrates high-resolution positron imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and microscopic imaging on a dorsal skin window chamber on a nude rat. The window chamber frame was designed to be compatible with multimodal imaging and its fiducial markers were customized for precise physical alignment among modalities. The co-registration accuracy was evaluated based on phantoms with thin catheters. For proof of concept, the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line HT-29 was imaged. The tissue within the window chamber was sectioned, fixed, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) stained for comparison with multimodal in vivo imaging.Results: With the physical alignment via fiducial markers, the co-registration errors of the MIMI system were 0.18 ± 0.27 mm between MRI and positron imaging, 0.19 ± 0.22 mm between positron imaging and microscopic imaging, and 0.15 ± 0.27 mm between MRI and microscopic imaging. A pilot test demonstrated that the MIMI system provides an integrative visualization of the tumour anatomy, perfusion and metabolism of the in vivo tumour microenvironment.Conclusions: The established MIMI system provided a co-registered in vivo platform for trans-scale and transparent investigation of the underlying pathology behind imaging, which has the potential to enhance the translation of molecular imaging.
Anlotinib versus Chemotherapy as a Third-line or Further Treatment for Advanced Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Yue , Nie Wei , Ling Xuxinyi , Cao Shuhui , Li Jingwen , Zhou Yan , Hua Zhong
Published: May 2021

Purpose The optimal third-line or further treatment for advanced small cell lung cancer (SCLC) remains unclear.Anlotinib,which is a novel multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor,could inhibit tumor angiogenesis and proliferative signaling.This retrospective study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of anlotinib versus chemotherapy of patients with advanced SCLC progressing after second-line or further treatment.Methods This study included 55 advanced SCLC patients (n=28 for anlotinib group and n=27 for chemotherapy group) from Shanghai Chest hospital between January 2017 and September 2019.Detailed demographic,survival data,and safety data were collected.Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to assess median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).Results PFS was significantly longer in the anlotinib group [median PFS 3.58 versus 2.56 months;hazard ratio (HR)=0.42,95% CI:0.24-0.75,P=0.003] than that in the chemotherapy group.Although anlotinib did not improve OS (median OS 5.32 versus 6.57 months;HR=1.21,95% CI:0.60-2.46,P=0.592),non-smokers derived more survival benefit from anlotinib than ever/current smokers (Pinteraction for OS=0.04).In addition,similar result was found for PFS (Pinteraction for PFS=0.08).Considerable improvement in disease control rate was observed in the anlotinib group over the chemotherapy group.Four (14.3%) patients in the anlotinib group versus five (18.5%) patients in the chemotherapy group had treatment-related grade 3-4 adverse events.Conclusion Anlotinib treatment resulted in an improvement of PFS versus chemotherapy in previously treated SCLC,with a favourable safety profile.Non-smoking seemed to be a predictive factor of anlotinib efficacy.Prospective studies were needed to confirm our findings.
Perilipin1 Promotes the Synthesis of Milk Fat by Regulating the Activity of SREBP1 in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Wang Meng , Wang Yu juan , Wu Xiao hua , Jia Hong ru , Yang Chaoqun , Zhang Li , Zan Linsen , yang wucai
Published: May 2021

BackgroundMilk fat content is an important index of milk product quality and one of the main traits of dairy cattle breeding. Perilipin1 is a predominant binding protein that mainly surrounds lipid droplets. Perilipin1 is important in the regulation of lipid metabolism. SREBP1 is a transcription factor that controls the expression of a variety of lipogenic genes and is the main regulator of milk fat synthesis. Here, we investigated the effect and mechanism of Perilipin1 on milk fat synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells ( BMECs ). ResultsWe found that the number and volume of lipid droplets increased following periplipin1 overexpression, leading to increased triglyceride accumulation, increased relative expression of lipid synthesis-related genes, decreased expression of lipid lipolysis genes, and increased SREBP1 activity . On the contrary, periplipin1 silencing reduced the number of lipid droplets, inhibited the synthesis of triglycerides, decreased the relative expression of lipid synthesis-related genes, increased the expression of lipid lipolysis genes, and downregulated the activity of SREBPI. ConclusionsPerilipin1 promotes the synthesis of milk fat via up-regulating the activity of SREBP1 in BMECs. These findings laid the foundation for Holstein dairy cows to increase their milk fat content in molecular breeding.
SPP1 Promotes Enzalutamide Resistance and EMT Activation in CRPC Progression via PI3K/AKT and ERK1/2 Pathways
Authors: Pang Xiaocong , Zhang Junling , He Xu , Gu Yanlun , Yu Wei , Shi Xuedong , Li Teng , Zhang Xiaodan , Zhang Zhuo , Zhou Ying , Cui Yimin
Published: May 2021

The bottleneck arising from castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) treatment is its high metastasis potential and anti-androgen drug resistance, which severely affects survival time of prostate cancer (PCa) patients. In our previous study, we firstly revealed SPP1 was a potential hub signature for predicting metastatic CRPC (mCRPC) development. Herein, we integrated multiple databases to explore the association of SPP1 expression with prognosis, survival, metastatic levels in CRPC progression, and also investigated SPP1 expression in PCa tissues and cell lines. Next, PCa cell lines with overexpression or depletion of SPP1 were established to study the effect of SPP1 on enzalutamide sensitivity, and adhesion and migration of prostate cancer cell lines and further explore the underlying regulatory mechanisms. Bioinformatics analysis, PCR, immunohistochemical staining and western blot results suggested SPP1 upregulation had strong relationship with the malignant progression of CRPC. SPP1 knockdown repressed enzalutamide sensitivity, invasion and migration of prostate cancer cells in vitro. Importantly, upregulating SPP1 promoted, while silencing SPP1 attenuated epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT). Our results further demonstrate that SPP1 overexpression maintains the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling and ERK1/2 pathways. Overall, our findings unraveled the functional role and clinical significance of SPP1 in PCa progression, and help to discover new potential targets against mCRPC.
Mucic Acid Loaded Polyethylenimine@Gold Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Cui Yixia , Zhang Junwei , Liu Yanwu , Meng Guolin , Lv Changwei
Published: May 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) could be a common autoimmune disease that involves severe Joint deformation. The main off-target medicines unable to cure RA, that permits associate in nursing infection with the unwellness. The nanomaterials-based RA medical aid is a good strategy to enhance the treatment efficaciousness within the inflammatory region. Specifically, metal-based nanomaterials are a wonderful choice for a possible delivery vehicle for inflammatory disease agents, attributable to their novel properties. Herein, we have got developed a small-sized Polyethylenimine (PEI) coated gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with an average diameter of 80 nm, that area unit used for top loading of carboxylic acid (MA). Various microscopic and qualitative analysis tools like high-resolution transmission microscopy (HR-TEM), Field-emission scanning microscope (FE-SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis studies were accustomed to make sure as-made PEI-AuNPs. The invented PEI-coated AuNPs (PEI-AuNPs) exhibited higher contrast with an extended expanse that's promising to store giant amounts of MA medicine. MA is attributed to deduce the inflammatory response by inhibiting the pro-inflammatory cytokines and averting undesirable ancient drug aspect effects in Collagen-induced inflammatory disease (CIA). Numerous organic chemistry parameters like weight, hind paw volume, protein estimation, anti-serum protein analysis, and microscopic anatomy examination were conducted in Collagen-induced arthritis mice treated at a dose (10 µg) of MA packed PEI-AuNPs. The obtained results showed the MA-PEI-AuNPs were used with success within the treatment of Collagen-induced arthritis, relative to PEI-AuNPs and MA. Therefore, MA loaded PEI-AuNPs as a stimulating candidate in future RA applications.
Morning Report Goes Virtual: Learner Experiences in a Virtual, Case-Based Diagnostic Reasoning Conference
Authors: Penner John C. , Le Stephenie , Shipley Lindsey C. , Murdock H. Moses , Minter Daniel J. , Nematollahi Saman
Published: May 2021

Background: Participation in case-based diagnostic reasoning (DR) conferences has previously been limited to those who can attend in-person. Technological advances have enabled these conferences to migrate to virtual platforms, creating an opportunity to improve access and learner participation. We describe the design and evaluation of virtual morning report (VMR), a novel case-based DR conference.Methods: VMR took place on a videoconferencing platform. Participants included health professions students, post-graduate trainees, and practitioners. In designing VMR, we adapted concepts from experience-based learning theory to design opportunities for learner participation. Teaching strategies were informed by information-processing and situativity theories. We evaluated learner experiences in VMR using a survey with open and closed-ended questions. Survey items focused on accessing case-based teaching conferences outside of VMR, participant perceptions of the educational value of VMR, and VMR’s impact on participants’ confidence in performing DR. We used qualitative content analysis to manually code open-ended responses and identify themes. Results: 203 participants (30.2%) completed the survey. 141 respondents (69.5%) did not otherwise have access to a DR conference. The majority of participants reported increased confidence performing DR. Respondents highlighted that VMR supplemented their education, created a supportive learning environment, and offered a sense of community.Conclusions: VMR can expand access to DR education, create new opportunities for learner participation, and improve learner confidence in performing DR.
Extracellular Fluid, Cerebrospinal Fluid and Plasma Biomarkers of Axonal and Neuronal Injury Following Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Tobieson Lovisa , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Marklund Niklas
Published: May 2021

Background: Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most devastating form of stroke. To refine treatments, improved understanding of the secondary injury processes is needed. We compared energy metabolic, amyloid and neuroaxonal injury biomarkers in extracellular fluid (ECF) from the perihemorrhagic zone (PHZ) and non-injured (NCX) brain tissue, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma. Method: Patients (n=11, age 61 ± 10 years) undergoing ICH surgery received two microdialysis (MD) catheters, one in PHZ, and one in NCX. ECF was analysed at three time intervals within the first 60 hours post- surgery, as were CSF and plasma samples. Amyloid-beta (Aβ) 40 and 42, microtubule associated protein tau (tau), and neurofilament-light (NF-L) were analysed using Single molecule array (Simoa) technology.Results: Median biomarker concentrations were lowest in plasma, higher in ECF and highest in CSF. Biomarker levels varied over time, with different dynamics in the three fluid compartments. In the PHZ, ECF levels of Aβ40 were lower, and tau higher when compared to the NCX.Conclusion: Altered levels of Aβ peptides, NF-L and tau may reflect brain tissue injury following ICH surgery. However, the different biomarker levels, and their dynamics, in the different fluid compartments should be considered when used to monitor ICH patients.
Assessing the Quality of Life Among Pediatric Population After Surgery for Recurrent Patellar Dislocation: a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Herdea Alexandru , Adham Charkaoui , Toma Alexandra , Dragomirescu Mihai-Codrut , Pencea Vlad , Ulici Alexandru
Published: May 2021

Patellofemoral instability is a common cause of knee pathology that is affecting the quality of life among pediatric population. Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study, including patients that underwent surgical management by using the Lateral Release and Medial Imbrication approach (LRMI) or Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction (MPFL-R). The purpose of this study was the assessment of the quality of life among pediatric population that underwent surgery for patellar dislocation. The quality of life was evaluated before and after surgery using the Pediatric International Knee Documentation Committee form (Pedi-IKDC). The postoperative scar was evaluated using The Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale. 108 patients were selected and grouped according to the type of procedure. Results: before surgery, the calculated Pedi-IKDC scores were similar between the two groups of patients. We identified substantial improvement in the postoperative score after surgery and the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction technique showed better results. The difference regarding the Pedi-IKDC score between the two groups was significant, in favor of the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction. By using the Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale, an important difference emerged between the two groups of patients in favor of the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction technique, revealing that it is a minimally invasive approach, improves recovery, reduces postoperative stay and increases the patients quality of life.Conclusions: This study provides further evidence based results that support the recommendations regarding the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction technique as the gold standard for the patellofemoral instability.Trial registration: The Ethics Committee of „Grigore Alexandrescu” Children’s Emergency Clinical Hospital of Bucharest approved this study on 1st of March 2013. The project code is 7/01.03.2013. An informed parental consent was obtained for every participant.
Effect of different bowling surfaces on bowling speed of pace bowlers: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Singh Amrinder , Joshi Ghosha , Sathe Abhinav , Shenoy Shweta
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Cricket is a popular game played across many countries in varied playing conditions ranging from ball, bowling surface, outfield and weather. Speed of bowling is a significant factor that can decide result of any match; and therefore, it always attracts sports professionals to study and analyse it in detail.
Methods

This research presents an original field-based study carried out to understand the effect of different bowling surfaces (natural turf and concrete) on bowling speed of 41 fast and medium pace asymptomatic bowlers having no injuries, especially to the shoulder joint and back, during 3 months before participation in this study. This single occasion cross-sectional design study comprised of Physical profile evaluation and Bowling velocity assessment performed with SRA 3000 Tracer Precision Radar gun.
Results

This research discusses the statistical analysis of the observations with the help of mean value, standard deviation and t-value and concludes that the ball speed decreases less after pitching on the cement-based pitch than natural turf. The data signify that on the concrete-based pitch the post pitching speed remains slightly higher and Pitch pace which is difference at 2 ends of the pitch is decreased.
Conclusion

Potential applications of this field research are also presented, which include development of judgement and accurate bat swing according to ball speed; fair degree of confidence in replacing season cricket ball with a tennis ball for practice sessions from the speed point of view and ascertaining the need of safety equipment.