bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical Application of a Modified Bone Cement Pusher in Percutaneous Vertebroplasty Combined with Multi-Target Negative Pressure Rotary-Cutting Technique in Puncture Biopsy for Bone Tumors
Authors: Yang Zongqiang , Tang Jing , Ma Hongbao , Wang Linan , Shi Jiandang , Niu Ningkui 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Purpose To assess the efficiency and safety of a modified bone cement pusher in percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) combined with a multi-target negative pressure rotary-cutting technique in puncture biopsy of bone tumors. Methods The biopsy performed with the modified bone cement pusher commonly used in PVP, and a multi-target negative pressure rotary-cutting technique. A total of 120 patients with spinal and pelvic tumors undergoing needle biopsy in our department were recruited and assigned to new biopsy device group (group A, n=60) or and conventional biopsy device group (group B, n=60). The puncture time, positive rate, consistency rate, and dependence rate between group A and B were compared to assess the efficiency and safety of the new device. Results No biopsy-related complications were reported in both groups. The puncture time (39.44±8.885 min vs. 61.61±9.880 min), positive rate (96.67% vs. 61.67%), consistency rate (96.55% vs. 81.8%), and dependence rate (100% vs. 83.33%) were significantly superb in group A compared with those in group B (all P<0.05). Patients in group A did not require repeated biopsies, and sufficient samples were obtained through the needle trajectory in PVP. All patients with a definite diagnosis were managed with appropriate treatments. Conclusions Featuring high safety, positive rate and consistency rate, the new device can be performed to collect sufficient pathological samples from multiple angles. Wide clinical replication can be expected considering its evident diagnostic efficiency for bone tumor.
Observational Study: Application of Therapy with Equine Serum for Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19 in Tucumán, Argentina
Authors: Chahla Rossana Elena , Ruiz Luis Medina , Contreras Miguel Enrique Ferré , Raya Mario , MsC Natalia Herrera , Ortega Eugenia Silvana , Gustavo Daniel Gustavo Goroso , de Bruno María de los  Ángeles Peral 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Purpose: The objective of this work is to make an observational study of the usage in moderate or severe state COVID-19 patients of a new therapeutic commercial product obtained after immunization of horses: CoviFab® ELEA F(ab')2 fragmented equine immunoglobulins anti SARS-CoV2.Methods: Participant Centres depend on the Public Health System of Tucumán, Argentina were recruitment. Subjects were assigned to the Moderate Patient Group (MPG) and the Severe Patient Group (SPG), classified according to WHO criteria.In total, n = 84 were enrolled for this study. The subjects were divided into MPG and SPG. All participants were evaluated by physical examination and COVID-19 infection was diagnosed with positive RT-PCR. Each subject received two doses of 0.16 ml / kg, according to the subject's body weight. A generalized linear model with binomial distribution was adjusted for the number of symptoms. Data was analysed using proportion, bivariate and logistic regression. P-value was considered significant at the p< 0.05 threshold.Results: Both groups were similar in age, sex, and comorbidities. A higher proportion of patient with medical discharge was observed in MPG (91.4%) vs. SPG (55.3%) (p= 0.004). MPG showed 9 times more chance of receiving medical discharge than SPG (9.33 CI= [1.65, 52.81]; p= 0.012). Then, the chance to get medical discharge was independent of variables sex, age, and comorbidities. Conclusions: Treatment with Equine Serum in patients with moderate and severe disease of COVID-19 managed to slightly reduce hospitalization time. This treatment improved the clinical state to obtain medical discharge. The bivariate analysis showed 8 times more chance in MGP versus SGP to receive of medical discharge and this chance was independent of the pre-existent comorbidities.
A Dual/Single Wideband Switchable Metamaterial Absorber at Low Frequency
Authors: Wang Liansheng , Xia Dongyan , Fu Quanhong , Ding Xueyong , Wang Yuan 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Based on PIN diode and resistive film, a dual/single wideband switchable metamaterial absorber at low frequency is presented in this paper. Its absorption is over 90% from 0.8GHz to 1.5GHz and from 4.2GHz to 5.2GHz while the PIN diode operates in forward biased condition. On the contrary, with the PIN diode acting in reverse biased condition, the above 90% absorption occurs from 1.1GHz to 3.2GHz. The surface current distributions at the absorption frequencies are monitored to explain the reason of wideband absorption. The simulation results show that the absorption property of the metamaterial absorber is polarization-sensitive. The metamaterial absorber possesses the advantages of simple structure, wideband, dual/single band, and switchable performance.
Radiologists Detect A Higher Frequency of Incidental Findings On Radiotherapy-Planning CT Scans of Breast Cancer Patients Than Oncologist
Authors: Nyby Stine , Hansen Signe Hertz , Yammeni Sophie , Delekta Agnieszka Monika , Naujokaite Gintare , Falkmer Ursula G. , Bøgsted Martin , Carus Andreas 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Purpose: Breast cancer patients scheduled for postoperative radiotherapy undergo radiotherapy-planning computed tomography (CT), and incidental findings (IFs) may appear. This study investigated the interobserver variability between radiologists and oncologists when assessing IFs on radiotherapy-planning CT scans in breast cancer patients prior to adjuvant radiotherapy. Methods: We included 383 breast cancer patients who underwent planning CT at the Aalborg University Hospital between February 1, 2017 and February 28, 2018. IFs noted by the oncologists were identified from medical records. Two specialized radiologists reviewed the scans and described their IFs. IFs were classified as benign or potential malignant lesions. Cohen’s kappa statistic was used to measure interobserver agreement.Results: A total of 513 IFs were registered. The radiologists registered 433 findings, and the oncologists noted 80 (1.1 and 0.2 IFs per patient, respectively). Most potential malignant IFs were found in the liver, lungs, bones, and lymph nodes. The radiologists and oncologists detected potential malignant lesions in 94 (25%) and 34 (9%) patients, respectively. The oncologists’ sensitivity for detecting IFs in the liver and lungs were 29% and 20%, respectively. The agreements on IFs in the liver and lungs were fair (Cohen’s kappa values of 0.33 and 0.28, respectively).Conclusion: Radiologists reported a significantly higher frequency of IFs and potential malignant lesions than oncologists. Additionally, the oncologists had a low sensitivity when reporting IFs in both the liver and lungs. These results emphasize the need for specialized radiologists to scrutinize planning CT scans of breast cancer patients to ensure the intention to treat.
Monitoring and Ecological Risks of Heavy Metals of Urban Soils in Different Functional Areas Based on Plasma Technology
Authors: Jin Meng-Ting , Yuan Hao , Xu Quan , Xu Li-Ping , Yang De-Zheng 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Heavy metal pollution in soil has become a global environmental problem in recent years. This study assessed heavy metals' pollution distribution, level and ecological risk in soils from different functional areas in Shihezi City, China. Heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, and Cd) were measured using atmospheric pressure discharge plasma and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. The mean concentration of all heavy metals in soil was higher than heavy metals' background values. The spatial distribution of Cr is the most different, and the distribution of Cu and Zn are similar in other functional regions. The single pollution index indicated that the heavy metals in industrial, traffic, and residential areas were enriched, and the pollution of Cd was more severe than others. The Nemerow pollution index showed that the near Manas River basin coast is alert (still clean), the industrial area is moderately polluted, and all other functional areas are lightly polluted. The potential ecological risk index demonstrated that only the nearshore Manas River Basin is at a mild ecological risk level, while all other functional areas are at a moderate ecological risk level. The determinate power of DEM, temperature, and precipitation were all over 65%, which meant that the topographic and climatic factors were the main factors affecting the change of heavy metal content. Secondly, socio-economic factors are important factors to promote the change of heavy metal content in soil.
The relationship between white tongue and gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Jamali Raika , Goodarzi Neda , Jamali Arsia , Moslemi Neda 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background

Signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are limited, therefore, follow up of treatment are mainly based on patients’ symptoms. The aims of study were: 1) to compare the prevalence of white tongue (WT) between individuals with GERD and control group, 2) to evaluate the correlation between WT extension and severity of symptoms in GERD.
Materials and methods

This case-control study consisted of 100 consecutive individuals with GERD who were referred to the gastroenterology clinic of a referral hospital during 2019-2020. The diagnosis of GERD was made by a gastroenterologist if heart burn or regurgitation existed. The same number of healthy accompanies of patients without GERD participated as the control group. A single examiner defined WT if whitish-gray discoloration of tongue surface existed in two separate sessions [Kappa = 0.93; p < 0.01]. WT extension was estimated based on the approximate white discoloration of the tongue surface.
Results

All participants with GERD showed white tongue in the first observation and 98% in the second observation, while only 5% of the individuals in the control group revealed WT in both observations (p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between the WT extension and GERD symptom severity (r: 0.44; p < 0.001).
Conclusion

It seems that WT might be a reliable sign of GERD. Considering the association between GERD symptoms severity and the extent of WT in this observation, further studies may assess the utility of WT extension as a reasonable objective in monitoring treatment response.
Ancestral SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells cross-recognize Omicron (B.1.1.529)
Authors: Gao Yu , Cai Curtis , Grifoni Alba , Müller Thomas , Niessl Julia , Olofsson Anna , Humbert Marion , Hansson Lotta , Österborg Anders , Bergman Peter , Chen Puran , Olsson Annika , Sandberg Johan K. , Weiskopf Daniela , Price David A. , Ljunggren Hans-Gustaf , Karlsson Annika C. , Sette Alessandro , Aleman Soo , Buggert Marcus 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 variant-of-concern Omicron (B.1.1.529) has destabilized global efforts to control the impact of COVID-19. Recent data have suggested that B.1.1.529 can readily infect people with naturally acquired or vaccine-induced immunity, facilitated in some cases by viral escape from antibodies that neutralize ancestral SARS-CoV-2. However, severe disease appears to be relatively uncommon in such individuals, highlighting a potential role for other components of the adaptive immune system. We report here that SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells induced by prior infection and, more extensively, by mRNA vaccination provide comprehensive heterologous immune reactivity against B.1.1.529. Pairwise comparisons across groups further revealed that SARS-CoV-2 spike-reactive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells exhibited similar functional attributes, memory distributions, and phenotypic traits in response to the ancestral strain or B.1.1.529. Our data indicate that established SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses, especially after mRNA vaccination, remain largely intact against B.1.1.529.
Performance Modelling and Design Techniques for Efficiency Improvement in On-chip Switched-Capacitor DC-DC Converter
Authors: Saini Sunita , Saini Davinder Singh 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Fundamental charge vector method analysis is a single parameter optimization technique limited to conduction loss assuming all frequency-dependent switching (parasitic) loss negligible. This paper investigates a generalized structure to design DC-DC SC converters based on conduction and switching loss. A new technique is proposed to find the optimum value of switching frequency and switch size to calculate target load current and output voltage that maximize the efficiency. The analysis is done to identify switching frequency and switch size for two-phase 2:1 series-parallel SC converter for a target load current of 2.67mA implemented on a 22nm technology node. Results show that a minimum of 250MHz switching frequency is required for target efficiency more than 90% and the output voltage greater than 0.85V where the switch size of a unit cell corresponds to 10Ω on-resistance. MATLAB and PSpice simulation tools are used for results and validation.
Toxicity Evaluation of Chlorpyrifos Metabolite 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol to Eisenia Fetida in Different Soils
Authors: Hou Kaixuan , Yang Yue , Zhu Lei , Wu Ruolin , Du Zhongkun , Li Bing , Zhu Lusheng , Sun Shujuan 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
The present study utilized a biomarker response method to evaluate the effect of 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP) in artificial and natural soils on Eisenia fetida after 7, 14, 28, 42 and 56 days exposure. Results indicated that TCP induced excessive reactive oxygen species, caused oxidative stress and DNA damage to Eisenia fetida. Biomarker responses were standardized to calculate the Integrated Biomarker Response (IBR) index. The IBR index of three enzymes activities showed that TCP induced the enzymes activities of earthworm in red clay was stronger than the other three soils. Specifically, chlorpyrifos exposure group showed a lower toxicity than TCP exposure group after 28 days exposure but a higher toxicity than TCP exposure group after 56 days exposure. Despite the deficiencies of this study, the above information is of great significance for assessing the risk of chlorpyrifos and its metabolite TCP pollution in soil ecosystems.
Microsatellite Instability as a Maker of Prognosis: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer Survival Data
Authors: Xiao Jing-ping , Wang Ji-sheng , Zhao Yuan-yu , Du Jiang , Wang Yunzi 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Introduction To investigate whether microsatellite instability (MSI) is an important prognostic biomarker for endometrioid endometrial cancer (EEC).Methods The PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Cooperative Library databases were searched from inception to July 2021. Overall survival, disease-free survival, progression-free survival, EEC-specific survival, recurrence-free survival and the recurrence rate were pooled to analyze the correlation between MSI and EEC. In addition, Egger’s regression analysis and Begg’s test were used to detect publication bias.Results 17 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in our meta-analysis with a sample size of 4723, and the included patients with endometrioid cancer (EC) all were EEC. The pooled hazard ratios (HR) in patients with EEC shown that MSI was significantly associated with shorter overall survival [HR=1.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.00-1.86), p=0.048, I2=60.6%], shorter disease-free survival [HR=1.99, 95% CI (1.31-3.01), p=0.000, I2=67.2%], shorter EEC-specific survival [HR=2.07, 95% CI (1.35-3.18), p=0.001, I2=31.6%] and a higher recurrence rate [Odds ratios (OR)=2.72, 95% CI (1.56-4.76), p=0.000, I2=0.0%]. In the early-stage EEC subgroup, MSI was significantly associated with shorter overall survival [HR=1.47, 95% CI (1.11-1.95), p=0.07], shorter disease-free survival [HR=4.17, 95% CI (2.37-7.41), p=0.000], and shorter progression-free survival [HR=2.41, 95% CI (1.05-5.54), p=0.039]. No significant heterogeneity was observed in overall survival (I2=20.9%), disease-free survival (I2=0.0%), or progression-free survival (I2=0.0%) in patients with early-stage EEC. Meanwhile, publication bias was not observed, and the p-value for Egger’s test of overall survival, disease-free survival, and EEC-specific survival were p=0.131, p=0.068 and p=0.987, respectively.Conclusion MSI is likely an important biomarker for poor prognosis in patients with EEC, and this correlation is even more certain in patients with early-stage EEC.
Comprehensive Genome-wide Identification, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of CCHC Zinc Finger Gene Family in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Sun Aolong , Li Yongliang , Zou Xiaoxiao , Chen Fenglin , Cai Ruqiong , Xie Hai , Xiao Wenjun , Guo Xinhong 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: The CCHC zinc finger proteins (CCHC-ZFPs) are transcription factors that play versatile roles in plant growth, development, and responses to biotic/abiotic stress. However, little is known about the CCHC-ZF genes in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), an important food crop.Results: In this study, 50 TaCCHC-ZF genes were identified and distributed unevenly on 21 wheat chromosomes. According to the phylogenetic features, the 50 TaCCHC-ZF genes were classified into eight groups with specific motifs and gene structures. 43 TaCCHC-ZF genes were identified as segmentally duplicated genes that formed 36 segmental duplication gene pairs. Additionally, the collinearity analyses between wheat and eight other representative plant species showed that wheat had closer phylogenetic relationships with monocots compared to dicots. A total of 636 cis-elements related to environmental stress and phytohormone responsiveness were identified in the promoter of TaCCHC-ZF genes. Moreover, GO enrichment results revealed that all 50 TaCCHC-ZF genes were annotated under metal ion binding and nucleic acid binding. 91 miRNA binding sites within the 34 TaCCHC-ZF genes were identified by miRNA targets analyses, indicating that the expression of TaCCHC-ZF genes could be regulated by the miRNAs. Based on published transcriptome data, 38 TaCCHC-ZF genes were identified as DEGs, and 15 TaCCHC-ZF genes among them were verified by qRT-PCR assays, which showed response to drought, heat, or simultaneous response of them.Conclusions: This study systematically explored the gene structures, evolutionary characteristics, and potential roles during environmental responses of TaCCHC-ZF genes, providing a foundation for further investigation and application of TaCCHC-ZF genes in the molecular breeding of T. aestivum.
AXL/GAS6 Inhibition Induces Apoptosis and Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Migration by Blocking the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways in Thyroid Cancer Cells in Vivo
Authors: Zhang Zhenhua , Su Zijie , Zhang Ji 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: The Gas6/Axl-PI3K/Akt pathway is known as one of the most critical molecular signaling pathways involved in the regulation of key cellular processes. GAS6 has emerged as the perfect target for many malignancy treatments, but its role in thyroid cancer remains less described. This study aimed to evaluate both knockdown and overexpression effects of GAS6 on thyroid cancer cell proliferation, migration, and viability.Methods: Both RT-PCR and western blot analysis were performed to evaluate mRNA and protein expressions of GAS6; cell viability was assessed by MTT assay; then, TUNEL apoptosis, Transwell and migration assays were monitored to determine the effects of GAS6 knockdown or GAS6 overexpression on 850-5C and CAL62 thyroid cancer cells. Results: The mRNAs and protein expressions of GAS6 were the highest in CAL62 cancer cells. AXL/GAS6 knockdown through the application of siGAS6 and XL184, an AXL inhibitor, strongly diminished the proliferation and migration levels of CAL62 by inducing cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, overexpression of GAS6 produced the inversed effects, and the protein levels of PI3K, AKT, and p-AKT were significantly up and downregulated, accordingly. Conclusion: GAS6 inhibition promotes apoptosis and represses the proliferation of thyroid cancer cells by activating PI3K/AKT pathway; thus, provides a novel target for thyroid cancer therapy.
The Role of Neutrophil Elastase in Aortic Valve Calcification
Authors: Liu Yan , Jiang Peng , An Liqin , Zhu Mengying , Li Jin , Wang Yue , Huang Qin , Xiang Yi , Li Xiaorong , Shi Qiong , Weng Yaguang 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is the most commonly valvular disease in the western countries initiated by inflammation and abnormal calcium deposition. Currently, there is no clinical drugs for CAVD. Neutrophil elastase(NE) plays a causal role in inflammation and participates actively in cardiovascular diseases. However, the effects of NE on valve calcification remains unclear. So we next explore whether it is involved in valve calcification and the molecular mechanisms involved.Methods: NE expression and activity in calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) patients (n=58) and healthy patients (n=30) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Porcine aortic valve interstitial cells (pVICs) were isolated and used in vitro expriments. The effects of NE on pVICs inflammation, apoptosis and calcification were detected by hochest 33258 staining, MTT assay, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot. The effects of NE knockdown and NE activity inhibitor Alvelestat on pVICs inflammation, apoptosis and calcification under osteogenic medium induction were also detected by RT-PCR, western blot, alkaline phosphatase staining and alizarin red staining. Changes of Intracellular signaling pathways after NE treatment were measured by western blot.Results: The level and activity of NE were evaluated in patients with CAVS and calcified valve tissues. NE promoted inflammation, apoptosis and phenotype transition in pVICs in the presence or absence of osteogenic medium. Under osteogenic medium induction, NE silencing or NE inhibitor Alvelestat both suppressed the osteogenic differentiation of pVICs. Mechanically, NE played its role in promoting osteogenic differentiation of pVICs by activating the NF-κB and AKT signaling pathway.Conclusions: Collectively, NE is highly involved in the pathogenesis of valve calcification. Targeting NE such as Alvelestat may be a potential treatment for CAVD.
Trigeminal Herpes Zoster: Case Report
Authors: Killner Marcos André , Sum Fernanda Noguez , Melzer Rafaela Savio , Milani Cintia Mussi 
Published: January 2022

Herpes Zoster is an acute, self-limiting, viral infection caused by the reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) that remains latent in the dorsal root ganglion. It commonly affects the older people and immunocompromised individuals. Diabetes patients present an increased risk for Herpes Zoster due to their impaired cell-mediated immunity. Clinically it manifests with tingling, pruritus and painful vesicular eruptions along the affected nerve. The most commonly affected dermatomes are the thoracic and lumbar; trigeminal nerve can be involved and the ophtalmic nerve is the mostly affected. The diagnosis is based on clinical examination and laboratory confirmation. Treatment consists of antiviral therapy and is indicated to reduce acute pain symptoms, limit the spread and duration of the lesions, and prevent complications. The objective of the present study was to present a case report of Herpes Zoster involving the first and second division of the trigeminal nerve, in a 55 year old, male, diabetes patient.