bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Membrane transport in cell ensembles is modulated by the membrane state
Authors: Westerhausen Christoph , Färber Nicolas , Reitler Jonas , Schäfer Julian 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Employing fluorescence microscopy, we measure the uptake of various fluorescent dyes into adherent HeLa cells and determine simultaneously the degree of membrane lipid chain order on a single cell level. The latter is measured by spectral analysis of the membrane-embedded dye Laurdan with different filter sets and quantified by determining the generalized polarization GP. First, we find that the mean GP value of single cells varies within a cell population in a range that is equivalent to a temperature variation of 9 K. We exploit this natural variety of lipid membrane chain order to examine the uptake of fluorescent dyes as a function of GP at constant temperature. Using this approach, we experimentally show that transport across the cell membrane quantified by uptake of fluorescent dyes correlates with the membrane phase state. Specifically, we observed higher membrane transport with increasing lipid chain order. As a result, HeLa cells that adapted to lower culture temperatures by reducing lipid membrane chain order show less rhodamine B transport than the 37°C culture. Aside from the cell intrinsic membrane phase state environmental factors have impact on the transport across the cell membrane as well. While temperature reduces lipid order, we found that locally high cell densities increase lipid order of cell membranes, and in turn leading to increased dye uptake. To demonstrate the physiological relevance of this concept, we analyzed cell phase state and transport at different stages of an in vitro wound healing process. While the uptake within a confluent cell layer is high due to the high degree of lipid chain order it decreases from the wound edge towards the wound center where the membrane lipid chain order is lowest.
Efficient autotransporter-mediated extracellular secretion of a heterologous recombinant protein by Escherichia coli
Authors: Henderson Ian , Beriotto Irene , Icke Christopher , Sevastsyanovich Yanina , Rossiter Amanda , Romagnoli Giacomo , Savino Silvana , Cole Jeffrey , Saul Allan , MacLennan Calman , Cunningham Adam , Micoli Francesca 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: The autotransporter protein secretion system has previously been used to target the secretion of heterologous proteins to the bacterial cell surface and the extracellular milieu at laboratory scale. The platform is of particular interest for the production of “difficult” recombinant proteins that might cause toxic effects when produced intracellularly. One such protein is IrmA. IrmA is a vaccine candidate that is produced in inclusion bodies requiring refolding. Here, we describe the use and scale-up of the autotransporter system for the secretion of an industrially relevant protein (IrmA).Results: A plasmid expressing irmA was constructed such that the autotransporter platform could secrete IrmA into the culture supernatant fraction. The autotransporter platform was suitable for the production and purification of IrmA with comparable physical properties to the protein produced in the cytoplasm. The production of IrmA was translated to scale-up protein production conditions resulting in a yield of 29.3 mg/L of IrmA from the culture supernatant.Conclusions: The autotransporter platform is a viable method for the production, secretion, and purification of a “difficult” to produce protein on an industrially relevant scale. Use of the autotransporter platform could reduce the number of downstream processing operations required thus accelerating the development time and reducing costs for recombinant protein production.
Both Methanol and Water Mixture Extracts of Panax Notoginseng Flower Affect Platelet Function and Thrombus Growth by Down-Regulating PI3K/AKT and MAPKs Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zuo Xiao , Qin Nan , Mao Yu-Heng , Ma Lijuan , Li Qing , Tian Zezhong , Zhao Mingzhu , Ji Qiuhua , Chen Yiting , Wan Jian-Bo , Yang Yan 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Platelet dysfunction plays a central role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). We previously found that two sapon in monomers isolated from Panax notoginseng flowers (PNF) have shown to exhibit anti-platelet activity, and here we used methanol and water extraction methods to gain two mix extracts of PNF (PNFM and PNFW) and further investigated the effects and the underlying mechanisms of PNFM and PNFW on platelet functions and thrombosis.Methods:Healthy human PRP or gel-filtered platelets were collected for in vitro assay the PNFM and PNFW on the function and activation of platelets, while FeCl3-injured thrombosis formation in mice mesenteric arteriole was applied for in vivo assessment. Western blot analysis was applied to study the mechanic pathways. Results:The results showed that both PNFM and PNFW significantly inhibited human platelet aggregation and activation stimulated with either ADP or thrombin with a dose-effect relationship, and inhibited platelet granule-secretion and spreading in vitro. Furthermore, PNFM and PNFW attenuated thrombus formation in mice. The effects might be associated with inhibition of platelet PI3K, Akt, P38, JNK and Erk phosphorylation.Conclusion:These findings suggest that PNF mixture extracts could be developed as a functional ingredient to improve cardiovascular health through inhibiting platelet hyper reaction.
Shoulder traction as a possible risk factor for C5 palsy in anterior cervical surgery: A cadaveric study
Authors: Yoon Ja-Yeong , Lee Byung-Ho , Moon Seong-Hwan , Kim Hak-Sun , Suk Kyung-Soo , Kwon Ji-Won , Lee Wonwoo , Jang Dong-Su 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
BackgroundMany risk factors for postoperative C5 palsy (PC5P) have been reported about “cord shift” after a posterior approach. However, there are few reports about shoulder traction as a possible risk factor of anterior cervical surgery. So, we tried to observe stretched nerve roots when shoulder traction was applied and to assess the risk factors for PC5PMethodsOne cadaver(A 72-year-old male) was chosen out of six that were available based on age and the presence of foramen stenosis. After dissecting sternocleidomastoid muscle of the cadaver, the shoulder joint was pulled with a force of 2, 5, 8, 10, 15, and 20 kg. Then, stretched length of the fifth nerve root was measured in the extra-foraminal zone. In addition, the same measurement was performed after cutting of the carotid artery to accurately identify the nerve root origin. After additional dissection was performed so that the superior trunk of the brachial plexus could be seen, the stretched length of the 5th and 6th nerve roots was measured again.ResultsIn the first experiment, the 5th nerve root began to elongate by 2 mm at 8 kg and increased to a maximum of 5 mm. Also, after carotid artery dissection, when 8 kg of traction force was applied, it was elongated by 2 mm, and increased by up to 7 mm. After the second dissection, the length of the 5th and 6th nerve roots began to increase from 8 kg, and then increased to a maximum of 6 mm and 5 mm, respectively.ConclusionAlthough this was a cadaveric experiment, it suggests that shoulder traction could be the risk factors for PC5P after anterior cervical surgery. In addition, for patients with foraminal stenosis and central stenosis, the risk would be higher. Our results suggest the possibility that shoulder traction applied in actual surgery can lead to PC5P. Therefore, the surgeon should be aware of this, and the patient will need sufficient explanation.
Identification of MARCO and PCSK6 As Key Genes Promoting Hepatic Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer via Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: He Hang , Liang Minrui 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Hepatic metastasis occurred frequently in pancreatic cancer and leads to a poor prognosis. Genes promoting hepatic metastasis would help finding out the way to improve survivals of patients. Methods and results: GSE42952 and GSE71729 out of 181 data serials from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) with samples of both hepatic metastasis and primary tumor of pancreatic cancer were chosen to generate differentially expressing genes (DEGs). 217 up-regulated and 257 down-regulated genes overlapped between the two data serials and were defined as hepatic metastasis related DEGs (H-DEGs), among which 27 up-regulated and 2 down-regulated H-DEGs were verified by both tumor tissues and cell lines of pancreatic cancer. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis were performed and showed reprogramming of tumor metabolism might promote hepatic metastasis. The prognostic significance of H-DEGs were investigated. Up-regulation of MARCO and PCSK6 were both correlated to decreased overall survivals in pancreatic cancer. Immune cell infiltration analysis indicated MARCO involved in regulating tumor immune microenvironment. Gene set enrichment analysis found PCSK6 was related to activations of critical pathways and regulation of glycolysis. Conclusions: MARCO and PCSK6 might promote hepatic metastasis of pancreatic cancer via modulating tumor immune microenvironment and tumor metabolism respectively.
Review of Locking Alleviation Methods for Continuum-based ANCF Elements
Authors: Obrezkov Leonid , Mikkola Aki , Matikainen Marko 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
The absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) is a nonlinear finite element approach proposed for the large deformation dynamics analysis of beam- and plate/shell-type structures. In the ANCF approach, elastic forces can be defined using three-dimensional elasticity based continuum mechanics. This approach is often straightforward, and it makes it possible to use advanced material models in the ANCF framework. However, it has been pointed out in several studies that continuum ANCF-based elements with a full three-dimensional elasticity description can suffer from locking phenomena. In this study, a comparison between various combinations of locking alleviation techniques and their applicability to different ANCF beam variants is studied using numerical examples. Furthermore, the enhanced deformation gradient (EDG) technique, which has been proposed recently in finite element literature, is demonstrated for high-order ANCF beam elements. Based on the numerical tests, none of currently available techniques are suitable for all types of ANCF elements. The paper also shows that the efficiency and accuracy of the techniques are case dependent. For the ANCF beam element involving higher-order terms with respect to trapezoidal mode, however, the EDG-based techniques are preferable to reduce locking phenomena.
Use of a 3D Inkjet-Printed Model to Access Dust Particle Toxicology in the Human Alveolar Barrier
Authors: Kang Dayoon , Lee Hyomin , Jung Sungjune 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Fine dust particles in the air travel into our body via the airway tract and cause severe respiratory diseases. Thus, the analysis of the effects of dust particles on the respiratory system has been receiving significant research interest. However, most studies on the toxicity of dust particles involve two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures, animal models, and epidemiology. Here, we inkjet-printed an three-dimensional (3D) alveolar barrier model to study how dust particles cause respiratory diseases. The three-layered in vitro model was exposed to A2 fine test dust with varying concentrations and exposure durations. Results: The results highlighted the destruction of the tissue architecture along with apoptosis in the bioprinted alveolar barrier. The damage at the cellular level induced an increase in the amount of pro-inflammatory cytokines secreted, followed by triggering of the signal transduction pathway and activation of transcription factors. As a consequence of the release of cytokines, the extracellular matrix was degraded, which led to the collapse of the cell structure, loss of cell polarity, and a decrease in the barrier tightness. Further, the pulmonary surfactant protein-related genes in the dust-treated alveolar tissue were investigated to evaluate the possible role of dust particles in pulmonary surfactant dysfunction. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the use of 3D-printed tissue model to evaluate the physiological impact of fine dust particles on cytotoxicity, alveolar barrier rigidity, and surfactant secretion of an alveolar barrier.
Occurrences and Virulence Genes Detection of Salmonella Typhi Isolates Among Patients With Typhoid Fever
Authors: Al-Khafaji Angham Najah 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
in low and middle-income countries, Typhoid fever is a major public health problem globally. The intensity of Salmonella's pathogenesis is determined by the presence of numerous virulence factors expressed on Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPIs). Study objectives included determining the occurrence of Salmonella typhi in typhoid fever by age, gender and determine the antibiogram profile against many routinely administered antibiotics. 166 samples of blood and feces were obtained from clinically suspicious patients at the Al-Najaf Public Health Department. This study took place between October 2020 and April 2021. Cultural and biochemical testing was used to identify the specimens, followed by identification using the Vitek2 system. The current work used a simple PCR technique, It was shown that genes are often associated with Salmonella typhi pathogenicity. Antibiotic sensitivity testing was performed on each isolate with the use 10 different antibiotics. A simple PCR experiment was performed to determine the presence of genes often associated with virulence in Salmonella typhi; 95(57%). This study identified two genes associated with pathogenicity (ctdB and tviA). 95 (57%) of the 166 total isolates tested positive for ctdB, but additional virulence genes were discovered in all 71 (42.7%) tviA (typhi Vi) gene isolated strains. This gene may contribute to the S. typhi strain's invasiveness. In conclusion, We demonstrated that typhoid infection is a significant public health risk, affects people of all ages, although it is more common in children aged 1-10 years. The rise of multidrug-resistant Salmonella spp. has created a significant issue for clinicians in terms of disease treatment. However, the current investigation discovered that the antibiotics Imipeneme and Cefotaxime are still effective against Salmonella spp. As a result, suitable criteria for prescribing these antibiotics should be followed to avoid multi-drug resistance concerns.
4D Flow Component Reveals Left Ventricular Function In Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Zhao Chengchen , Chen Guanzhong , Jin Chunna , Sun Jianzhong , Xiang Meixiang 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Purpose: Applicating cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) 4D flow to evaluate left ventricular systolic and diastolic function in atrial fibrillation (AF).Methods: In this study, from May 2021 to October 2021, 26 AF patients and 15 healthy participants were recruited and underwent multiparametric CMR and echocardiogram scans before discharge. The CMR protocol incorporated an assessment of 4D flow, cardiac function. Notably, the AF patients maintained irregular heart rhythm during the CMR scan. The 4D flow components were compared with echocardiogram results.Results: AF patients had a lower proportion of direct flow (33.5% (8.43; 47.5) in AF vs. 69.1% (63.4; 74.4) in healthy), higher delayed ejection (24.1±12% in AF vs. 14.7±6.8% in healthy), retained inflow (32.5% (24.6; 36.9) in AF vs. 14.5% (12.5; 18.2) in healthy) and residual volume (4.73% (1.47; 15.0) in AF vs. 0.62% (0.46; 1.62) in healthy). A high correlation was observed between flow EF and CMR EF (R=0.78, P<0.001) in AF patients. The mean bias among the methods was higher for flow EF than CMR EF (24.86%). Multivariable linear regression showed that the correlation between retained inflow and E/e’ (β=0.152, P=0.048) remained significant when adjusted for confounders. Direct flow (β= -0.170, P=0.038) and retained inflow (β=0.350, P=0.024) significantly correlated with the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire score. Conclusion: CMR 4D flow component revealed a significantly different flow pattern in AF patients compared with healthy participants and provided de novo flow biomarker indicating LV systolic function (direct flow and flow EF) and diastolic function (retained inflow).
Comparison of the Reproductive Outcomes of Patients With Incomplete and Complete Uterine Septum
Authors: YANG JIAN , Li Congqing , Wang Jing , Zhu Wenjing , Xia Jingxian , He Wei , Wang Qingyuan , Wei Bing , Wang Wenyan 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the effects of transcervical resection of the septum (TCRS) for two kinds of uterine septum on reproductive outcomes among women of reproductive age.Methods In this retrospective cohort study, we evaluated the reproductive outcomes after TCRS of 57 women with incomplete uterine septum and 23 women with complete uterine septum from January 2010 to December 2018 at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University.Results In group A, the spontaneous abortion and embryo arrest rates were significantly reduced by TCRS (P<0.001), and the rate of term delivery was improved (P<0.001) after TCRS. In group B, the pregnancy rate was significantly increased (43.5% vs. 82.6%), the rate of spontaneous abortion was significantly reduced (P<0.05), and the rate of term delivery was significantly improved (P<0.001) after operation. The cesarean section rate was significantly higher in group B than in group A after operation (76.5% vs. 47.7%). The pregnancy rate was highest at approximately the 6th month in group A and at approximately the 12th month in group B after operation.Conclusion We found that in patients who underwent TCRS, the rate of spontaneous abortion decreased, and the rates of pregnancy and full-term birth increased; however, the rates of cesarean section and placenta previa increased. Considering the high miscarriage and infertility rates before operation, TCRS seems effective. An incomplete uterine septum resection can lead to an earlier pregnancy than a complete uterine septum resection after surgery, thus ensuring the best time for pregnancy is not missed.
Diagnostic Validity of Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (K-ADOS-2) in the Korean Population
Authors: Kim So Yoon , Oh Miae , Bong Guiyoung , Song Da-Yea , Yoon Nan-He , Kim Joo Hyun , Yoo Hee Jeong 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background

Although the Korean version of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (K-ADOS-2) is widely being used to diagnose autism in South Korea, no previous study has examined the validity and reliability of all modules of K-ADOS-2 across a wide age range, particularly older children, adolescents, and adults.
Method

Data from 2,177 participants were included (mean age = 79.2 months; 73.5% male); 1480 participants with autism and 697 participants without autism (Module-T, n = 296; Module-1, n = 654; Module-2 n = 574; Module-3 n = 411; Module-4, n = 233). Participants completed a battery of tests, including the K-ADOS or K-ADOS-2 and other existing diagnostic instruments. Sensitivity, specificity, area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), Cohen’s kappa (k), and agreement with existing diagnostic instruments were computed. Cronbach’s α values were also calculated.
Results

All five modules of the K-ADOS-2 showed sufficient ranges of sensitivity 98.2–100.0%; specificity, 83.1–93.5%; area under the ROC curve, .91-.97; PPV, 88.1–97.6%; NPV, 87.3–100.0%; and k values, .83–.92. The kappa agreement with existing diagnostic instruments ranged from .20 to .90. Cronbach’s α values ranged from .83 to .90 across all modules.
Limitation

: The best-estimate clinical diagnoses made in this study were not independent of the K-ADOS-2 scores. Some modules did not include balanced numbers of participants in terms of gender and diagnostic status.
Conclusion

The K-ADOS-2 is a valid and reliable instrument in diagnosing autism in South Korea. Future studies exploring the effectiveness of the K-ADOS-2 in capturing restricted, repetitive behaviors and differentiating autism from other developmental disabilities are needed.
Microstructure Study And Linear/Nonlinear Optical Properties of Bi-Embedded PVP/ PVA Films For Optoelectronic And Optical CUT-OFF Applications
Authors: Ali H. Elhosiny , Abdel-Aziz M. , Sayed M.A. , Abd-Rabboh Hisham S.M. , Awwad Nasser S. , Algarni H. , Khairy Yasmin 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Hybrid polymer films of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP)/ polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) embedded with gradient levels of Bi-powder were prepared using a conventional solution casting process. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FT-IR), and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques have been used to examine the micro/molecular structural and morphological of the synthesized flexible films. The XRD peak intensity and FTIR spectra of the PVA gradually decline as Bi-metal is introduced. In addition, filler changes the microstructure surface of the pure film. The modification in the microstructure leads to an enhancement in the optical characteristic of the blend films. The indirect allowed transition energy was calculated via Tauc's and ASF models. The decrease in the hybrid film’s bandgap (\({E}_{gi}^{opt}\)) returns to the localized states in the forbidden region, as illustrated by the Urbach energy (Eu) values. The optical absorption parameters, including absorption coefficient (α) and edge (Ee), have also been evaluated. The relation between the transition energy and the refractive index (n) was studied. The rise of Bi-metal concentrations leads to an improvement in the nonlinear (χ(3)) susceptibility and (n2) refractive parameters. The optical limiting characteristics (OLC) revealed that the higher concentration dopant films reduce the light transmission intensity. The results suggest that hybrid films are promising materials in a wide range of applications, especially optical devices, and optoelectronics.
Ultra-high-risk group of multiple myeloma: a real-world study based on two different prognostic evaluation systems
Authors: ye jiannan , MA KE-WA , CAO Yong-Qin , HE Guang-Sheng , SUN CHAO , ZHOU XIN 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Recently, two prognostic evaluation systems based on different angles, UK Myeloma Research Alliance proposed UK Myeloma Research Alliance Risk Profile(MRP) and chinese inflammatory prognostic scoring index(IPSI), have shown prognostic differences in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma(MM) patients without transplantation. However, there is no relevant research on whether there is a difference in the evaluation of the two systems. Methods: The study used these two systems to evaluate the prognosis of 160 patients with MM based on bortezomib without transplantation from January 2007 to June 2018. Results: It was found that the evaluation of patients at medium and low risk was similar, but in the high-risk group of MRP, IPSI could be further stratified, and in the high-risk group of IPSI, MRP could also be further stratified. Conclusions: It is suggested that myeloma patients with high risk factors of MRP and IPSI are ultra high risk patients with poor prognosis.