bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seroprevalence of human coronaviruses among patients visiting Hospital-Based Sentinel Sites in Uganda
Authors: Mulabbi Elijah , Tweyongyere Robert , Wabwire Fred , Mworozi Edison , Koehlerb Jeff , Kibuuka Hannah , Millard Monica , Erima Bernard , Tugume Titus , Aquino Ukuli , Byarugaba Denis
Published: December 2020

Background: Human coronaviruses are causative agents of respiratory infections with several subtypes being prevalent worldwide. They cause respiratory illnesses of varying severity and have been described to be continuously emerging but their prevalence is not well documented in Uganda. This study assessed the seroprevalence of antibodies against the previously known human coronaviruses prior 2019 in Uganda.Methods: A total 377 serum samples collected from volunteers that showed influenza like illness in five hospital-based sentinel sites and archived were analyzed using a commercial Qualitative Human Coronavirus Antibody IgG ELISA kit. Although there is no single kit available that can detect the presence of all the circulating coronaviruses, this kit uses a nucleoprotein, aa 340-390 to coat the wells and since there is significant homology among the various human coronavirus strains with regards to the coded for proteins, there is significant cross reactivity beyond HCoV HKU-39849 2003. This gives the kit a qualitative ability to detect the presence of human coronavirus antibodies in a sample. Results: The overall seroprevalence for all the sites was 87.53% with no significant difference in the seroprevalence between the Hospital based sentinel sites (p=0.8). Of the seropositive, the age group 1-5 years had the highest percentage (46.97), followed by 6-10 years (16.67) and then above 20 (16.36). The volunteers were divided into two broad categories, those below five years and those above five years, to calculate the odds ratio. The odds ratio of those seropositive with an age above 5 years with reference to those below 5 years was 0.62. This shows that those below 5 are more likely to be seropositive compared to those above 5 years. The seropositivity was generally high throughout the year with highest being recorded in March and the lowest in February and December. Conclusions: The seroprevalence of Human coronaviruses is alarmingly high which calls for need to identify and characterize the circulating coronavirus strains so as to guide policy on the control strategies.
Endometrial Receptivity on Assisted Reproductive Technology Cycles – a correlation between Serial Serum Estradiol levels and Serial Endometrial Volume Assessment
Authors: Martins Renato Silva , Oliani Antonio Helio , Oliani Denise Vaz , de Oliveira Jose Martinez
Published: December 2020

Background: Diagnosis of endometrial receptivity is still unclear and conflicting. Despite advances in embryo development during assisted reproductive technologies (ART) cycles, the intricate process of implantation is still matter for debate and research. Materials and Methods: Serial serum estradiol levels and 3D transvaginal ultrasound performed in women on ART cycle to evaluate a pattern that better predicts implantation rates. 169 subjects on a prospective case control study were assessed. Serial biochemical and biophysical parameters were assessed during ovarian controlled stimulation and results compared in terms of pregnancy outcome.Results: No statistical difference was noted between the two groups in terms of demographics and ART procedures and scores. Serum estradiol was significantly higher in the positive group from day 8 after ovarian controlled stimulation. Endometrial volume and adjusted endometrial volume were significantly higher in the positive group as soon as day 6 of ovarian controlled stimulation. Conclusions: Continuous serum estradiol and 3D endometrial volume and adjusted endometrial volumes may reflect endometrial changes during ART procedures and provide a useful real time tool for clinicians in predicting endometrial receptivity.
Origin of N-Type Thermoelectric Properties in Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Films With Anionic Surfactants Investigated by Experimental Analyses and First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Yonezawa Susumu , Chiba Tomoyuki , Seki Yuhei , Takashiri Masayuki
Published: December 2020

We investigated the origin of n-type thermoelectric properties in single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films with anionic surfactants via experimental analyses and first-principles calculations. Several types of anionic surfactants were employed to fabricate SWCNT films via drop-casting, followed by heat treatment at various temperatures. In particular, SWCNT films with sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) surfactant heated to 350°C exhibited a longer retention period, wherein the n-type Seebeck coefficient lasted for a maximum of 35 days. In the color mapping of atomic distribution, SWCNT films with SDBS surfactant exhibited a larger amount of sodium than oxygen on the SWCNT surface. The electronic band structure and density of states of SWCNTs with oxygen atoms, oxygen molecules, water molecules, sulfur atoms, and sodium atoms were analyzed using first-principles calculations. The calculations showed that sodium atoms and oxygen molecules moved the Fermi level closer to the conduction and valence bands, respectively. The water molecules, oxygen, and sulfur atoms did not affect the Fermi level. Therefore, SWCNT films exhibited n-type thermoelectric properties when the interaction between the sodium atoms and the SWCNTs was larger than that between the oxygen molecules and the SWCNTs.
Identification of Regulatory Factors Promoting Embryogenic Callus Formation in Barley Through Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Suo Jingqi , Zhou Chenlu , Zeng Zhanghui , Li Xipu , Bian Hongwu , Wang Junhui , Zhu Muyuan , Han Ning
Published: December 2020

Background: Barley is known to be recalcitrant to tissue culture, which hinders genetic transformation and its biotechnological application. To date, the ideal explant for transformation is still limited to immature embryos; however, the mechanism underlying embryonic callus formation remains elusive.Results: The aim of this study was to uncover the differential transcription regulation pathways between immature embryo (IME)- and mature embryo (ME)-derived callus formation through transcriptome sequencing. We showed that incubation of embryos on auxin-rich medium caused dramatic changes in gene expression profiles within 48 h. A total of 9330 and 11318 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found in the IME and ME systems, respectively. Protein phosphorylation, regulation of transcription, and oxidative-reduction process were the most common gene ontology categories of DEGs specific to the IME system. Twenty-three IAA, 14 ARF, 8 SAUR, 3 YUC, and 4 PIN genes were found to be differentially expressed during callus formation. The effect of callus-inducing medium (CIM) on IAA genes was broader in the IME system than in the IM system, indicating that auxin response and transport cooperate in regulating cell reprogramming during callus formation. BBM, LEC1 and PLT2 exhibited a significant increase in expression level during IME system but were not activated in the ME system, WUS showed a more substantial growth trend in the IME system than in the ME system, suggesting that these embryonic, shoot, and root meristems genes play crucial roles in determining the acquisition of competency. In addition, epigenetic regulators—including SUVH3A, SUVH2A, HDA19B/703—exhibited differential expression patterns between the two induction systems, indicating that epigenetic reprogramming might contribute to gene expression activation/suppression in this process. Furthermore, we examined the effect of ectopic expression of HvBBM and HvWUS on Agrobacterium-mediated barley transformation. The transformation efficiency was increased by three times in the group expressing the PLTPpro:HvBBM +Axig1pro:HvWUS construct, compared to that in the control (empty vector), which was due to an enhancement of plant regeneration capacity. Conclusions: We identified some regulatory factors that might contribute to the differential responses of the two explants to callus induction and provide a promising strategy to improve transformation efficiency in barley.
Feeding Efficiency Gains Can Increase the Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Potential of the Tanzanian Dairy Sector
Authors: Hawkins James , Yesuf Gabriel , Zijlstra Mink , Schoneveld George , Rufino Mariana
Published: December 2020

We use an attributional life cycle assessment (LCA) and simulation modelling to assess the effect of improved feeding practices and increased yields of feed crops on milk productivity and GHG emissions from the dairy sector of Tanzania’s southern highlands region. We calculated direct non-CO2 emissions from dairy production and the CO2 emissions resulting from the demand for croplands and grasslands using a land footprint indicator. Baseline GHG emissions intensities ranged between 19.8 - 27.8 and 5.8 - 5.9 kg CO2eq kg-1 fat and protein corrected milk for the Traditional (local cattle) and Modern (improved cattle) sectors. Land use change contributed 45.8 - 65.8% of the total carbon footprint of dairy. Better feeding increased milk yields by up to 60.1% and reduced emissions intensities by up to 52.4 and 38.0% for the Traditional and Modern sectors, respectively. Avoided land use change was the predominant cause of reductions in GHG emissions under all the scenarios. Reducing yield gaps of concentrate feeds lowered emission further by 11.4 – 34.9% despite increasing N2O and CO2 emissions from soils management and input use. This study demonstrates that feeding intensification has potential to increase LUC emissions from dairy production, but that fertilizer-dependent yield gains can offset this increase in emissions, through avoided emissions from land use change.
SCD5 Expression Correlates with Prognosis and Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhao Weipeng , Sun Linlin , Li Xichuan , Wang Jun , Zhu Ye , Jia Yan , Tong Zhongsheng
Published: December 2020

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) represents a standard option for breast cancer. Unfortunately, about 55% to 80% of breast cancer patients do not have a favorable response to chemotherapy. Highly specific tumor biomarker that can predict the pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy is lacking. Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 5 (SCD5) is an integral membrane protein of the endoplasmic reticulum that participates in lipid metabolism. However, the role of SCD5 in breast cancer remains unclear. Our study aims to understand its expression signature, prognosis value and correlation with pathological response to NACT in breast cancer using public databases. Analysis of samples from public databases showed that SCD5 expression was down-regulated across human cancers and associated with more aggressive breast cancer phenotypes. Survival analysis revealed that SCD5 expression was related to prognosis in breast cancer, especially triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Integrated analysis of multiple public datasets indicated that SCD5 expression signature was associated with response to NACT, particularly in TNBC. Based on functional enrichment analysis, SCD5 was implicated in pathways involved in metabolism and cell cycle. SCD5-related biological functions included negative regulation of cell cycle, cell division and DNA repair. Moreover, a significantly negative correlation between SCD5 expression and several cell cycle regulators was noted. Taken together, SCD5 was involved in the development and progression of breast cancer and might be a predictive biomarker for response to NACT. These results provided information for us to better understand SCD5 from the perspective of bioinformatics and highlighted the clinical importance of SCD5 in breast cancer, especially TNBC.
The association between opening a short stay paediatric assessment unit and trends in short stay hospital admissions
Authors: Turner Steve , Raja Edwin
Published: December 2020

Background. Rising acute paediatric hospital admissions in Scotland are explained by rising numbers of admissions lasting less than 24 hours (zero day admissions). Many inpatient facilities in Scotland have opened short stay paediatric assessment units (SSPAU) which are clinical areas separate from the usual inpatient ward area and these are where most zero day admissions are accommodated. Here we describe the effect of opening short stay paediatric assessment units (SSPAU) on the proportion of zero day admissions relative to all emergency admissions.Methods. Details of all emergency medical paediatric admissions to Scottish hospitals between 2000 and 2013 were obtained, including the number of zero day admissions per month and health board (i.e. geographic region). The month and year that an SSPAU opened in each health board was provided by local clinicians.Results. SSPAUs opened in 7 health boards, between 2004 and 2012. The rise in zero day admissions was greater in health boards with no SSPAU compared to those with an SSPAU. Across all 7 health boards, opening an SSPAU was associated with a 13% [95% CI 10, 15] increase in the proportion of zero day admissions. When considered individually, zero day admissions rose in four health boards after their SSPAU opened, were unchanged in one and fell in two health boards. Independent of SSPAUs opening, there was an increase in the proportion of all admissions which were zero day admissions (0.1% per month), and this accelerated after SSPAUs opened.Conclusion. Opening an SSPAU may increase in the proportion of zero day admissions, but in some settings may reduce this proportion. Zero day admissions could be reduced in some health boards by understanding differences in clinical referral pathways between health boards with contrasting trends in zero day admissions after their SSPAU opens.
Mechanotransduction Channel Piezo is Widely Expressed in the Spider, Cupiennius Salei, Mechanosensory Neurons and Central Nervous Systems
Authors: Johnson Jessica , Liu Hongxia , Höger Ulli , Rogers Samantha , Sivapalan Kajanan , French Andrew , Torkkeli Päivi
Published: December 2020

Mechanosensory neurons use mechanotransduction (MET) ion channels to detect mechanical forces and displacements. Proteins that function as MET channels have appeared multiple times during evolution and occur in at least four different families; the DEG/ENaC and TRP channels, and the TMC and Piezo proteins. We found twelve putative members of MET channel families in two spider transcriptomes, but detected only one, the Piezo protein, by in situ hybridization in their mechanosensory neurons. In contrast, probes for orthologs of TRP, ENaC or TMC genes that code MET channels in other species did not produce any signals in these cells. An antibody against C. salei Piezo detected the protein in all parts of their mechanosensory cells and in many neurons of the CNS. Unspecific blockers of MET channels, Ruthenium Red and GsMTx4, had no effect on the mechanically activated currents of the mechanosensory VS‑3 neurons, but the latter toxin reduced action potential firing when these cells were stimulated electrically. It is possible that the Piezo protein contributes to mechanosensory transduction in spider mechanosensilla, but it must have other functions in peripheral and central neurons.
Factors predicting long-term outcome of early stage hepatocellular carcinoma after primary curative treatment - the role of surgical or nonsurgical methods
Authors: Kuo Ming-Jeng , Chen Chi-Ling , Mo Lein-ray
Published: December 2020

Background The effect of putative factors on the clinical course of early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after primary surgical or nonsurgical curative treatment, which remains elusive, was quantified. Methods Patients with newly diagnosed early HCC who received surgical resection (SR) or percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with or without transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) from January 2003 to December 2016 were enrolled. The cumulative overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared. A polytomous logistic regression was used to estimate factors regarding early and late recurrence. Independent predictors of OS were identified using Cox proportional hazard regression. Results One hundred twenty-five patients underwent SR, and 176 patients underwent RFA, of whom 72 were treated with TACE followed by RFA. Either match analysis based on propensity score or multiple adjustment regression showed no significant difference in DFS and OS between the two groups. Multivariate analysis showed high AFP (>= 20 ng/mL), and multinodularity significantly increased risk of early recurrence (<=1year). In contrast, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus and multinodularity were significantly associated with late recurrence (>1year). Multivariate Cox regression with recurrent events as time-varying covariates identified older age (HR=1.55, 95% CI:1.01-2.36), clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) (HR=1.97, 95% CI:1.26-3.08), early recurrence (HR=6.62, 95% CI:3.79-11.6) and late recurrence (HR=3.75, 95% CI:1.99-7.08) as independent risk factors of mortality. A simple risk score showed fair calibration and discrimination in early HCC patients after primary curative treatment. In the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage A subgroup, SR significantly improved DFS comparing to those received RFA with or without TACE. Conclusion Host and tumor factors rather than the initial treatment modalities determine the outcomes of early HCC after primary curative treatment. Statistical models based on recurrence types can predict early HCC prognosis but further external validation is necessary.
Clinicopathological factors associated with synchronous distant metastasis and prognosis of stage T1 colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Chen Weiping , Li Qiken , Wang Gang , Luo Jun , Li Bo
Published: December 2020

It is rare and understudied for patients with stage T1 colorectal cancer to have synchronous distant metastasis. This study was to determine the clinicopathological factors associated with distant metastasis and prognosis. T1 colorectal cancer patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2015 were obtained from the SEER database. Logistic regression was applied to determine risk factors related to distant metastasis. Cox-proportional hazard models were used to identify the prognostic factors for patients with distant metastasis. Among 21,321 patients identified, 359 (1.8%) had synchronous distant metastasis and 1807 (8.5%) had lymph node metastasis. Multivariate analysis revealed that younger age, positive serum CEA, larger tumor size, positive tumor deposit, perineural invasion, lymph node metastasis, histology of non-adenocarcinoma and poorer differentiation were significantly associated with the increased risk of synchronous distant metastasis. Older age, female, African American, positive CEA, positive lymph node metastasis, positive tumor deposit, larger tumor size, no chemotherapy, inadequate lymph node harvesting and no metastasectomy were correlated with worse survival in these patients with synchronous distant metastasis. Patients with metastasis to the liver displayed the highest rate of positive CEA. We conclude that T1 colorectal cancer patients with multiple risk factors need thorough examinations to exclude synchronous distant metastasis. Chemotherapy, adequate lymph node cleaning and metastasectomy are associated with improved survival for those patients with distant metastases. Positive serum CEA may be useful in predicting distant metastases in patients at stage T1.
Effects of panretinal photocoagulation on macular vascular density and Foveal avascular zone area in patients with severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy by optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Zhu Hongjing , Zhang Weiwei , Liu Qinghuai
Published: December 2020

Aim: To describe the changes of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) characteristics in severe non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy(S-NPDR) eyes. And study the effect of Panretinal photocoagulation(PRP) on these characteristics.Methods: This is a prospective study including 31 eyes from 18 consecutive patients with S-NPDR and 31 eyes of healthy subjects. We measured macular vascular density (VD) and foveal avascular zone(FAZ) area by an OCTA device. All patients with S-NPDR underwent PRP treatment. In S-NPDR eyes, the VD and foveal avascular zone(FAZ) area were assessed at 1 week before PRP, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months following PRP.Results: Compared with the normal control group ,in superficial retinal capillary plexus (SCP), macular VD decreased in S-NPDR group expect foveal VD. In foveal ,p=0.7;In parafoveal and perifoveal, p＜0.001. In deep retinal capillary plexus (DCP), macular VD was also lower in S-NPDR group. In foveal, p=0.01.In parafoveal and perifoveal, p＜0.001. And FAZ area expanded in S-NPDR eyes(p=0.05). In S-NPDR eyes , at 3 months after PRP, foveal VD in DCP increased significantly(p=0.04). At 6 months after PRP, foveal VD increased both in SCP and DCP (P=0.01,P=0.008,respectively). At 6 months after PRP,FAZ area decreased (p=0.04).Conclusions : Patients with S-NPDR have retinal microcirculation disorder, and PRP can partially improve the macular microcirculation. VD and FAZ can be used as sensitive indicators for follow-up observation of diabetic retinopathy.
Amyloid conformation-dependent disaggregation revealed by a reconstituted yeast prion system
Authors: Tanaka Motomasa , Nakagawa Yoshiko , Shen Howard C.-H. , Sugiyama Shinju , Tomabechi Yuri , Krayukhina Elena , Okamoto Kenji , Yokoyama Takeshi , Shirouzu Mikako , Uchiyama Susumu , Inaba Megumi , Niwa Tatsuya , Sako Yasushi , Taguchi Hideki
Published: December 2020

Disaggregation of amyloid fibrils is a fundamental biological process required for amyloid propagation. However, due to the lack of experimental systems, the molecular mechanism of how amyloid is disaggregated by cellular factors remains poorly understood. Here, we established a robust, in vitro reconstituted system of yeast prion propagation and found that Hsp104, Ssa1, and Sis1 chaperones are essential for efficient disaggregation of Sup35 amyloid. Real-time imaging of single-molecule fluorescence coupled with the reconstitution system revealed that amyloid disaggregation is achieved by ordered, timely binding of the chaperones to the amyloid. Remarkably, we uncovered two distinct, prion strain conformation-dependent modes of disaggregation, fragmentation and dissolution. We characterized distinct chaperon dynamics in each mode and found that transient, repeated binding of Hsp104 to the same site of amyloid results in fragmentation. These findings provide a physical foundation for otherwise puzzling in vivo observations and for therapeutic development for amyloid-associated neurodegenerative diseases.
Increased RNA virus population diversity improves adaptability
Authors: Mattenberger Florian , Vila-Nistal Marina , Geller Ron
Published: December 2020

The replication machinery of most RNA viruses lacks proofreading mechanisms. As a result, RNA virus populations harbor a large amount of genetic diversity that confers them the ability to rapidly adapt to changes in their environment. In this work, we investigate whether further increasing the initial population diversity of a model RNA virus can improve adaptation to a single selection pressure, thermal inactivation. For this, we experimentally increased the diversity of coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) populations across the capsid region. We then compared the ability of such high diversity CVB3 populations to achieve resistance to thermal inactivation relative to standard CVB3 populations in an experimental evolution setting. We find that high diversity viral populations are better able to achieve resistance to thermal inactivation at both the temperature employed during experimental evolution as well as at a more extreme temperature. Moreover, we identify mutations in the CVB3 capsid that confer resistance to thermal inactivation, finding significant mutational epistasis. Our results indicate that even naturally diverse RNA virus populations can benefit from experimental augmentation of population diversity for optimal adaptation and support the use of such viral populations in directed evolution efforts that aim to select for viruses with desired characteristics.
A prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted prodrug with a favorable in vivo toxicity profile
Authors: Boinapally Srikanth , Ahn Hye-Hyun , Cheng Bei , Brummet Mary , Nam Hwanhee , Gabrielson Kathleen , Banerjee Sangeeta , Minn Il , Pomper Martin
Published: December 2020

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a promising target for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer (PC) and various solid tumors. Although PSMA-targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) has enabled significant imaging and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) responses, accumulating clinical data are beginning to reveal certain limitations, including a subgroup of non-responders, relapse, radiation-induced toxicity, and the need for specialized facilities for its administration. To date non-radioactive attempts to leverage PSMA to treat PC with antibodies, nanomedicines or cell-based therapies have met with modest success. We developed a non-radioactive prodrug, SBPD-1, composed of a small-molecule PSMA-targeting moiety, a cancer-selective cleavable linker, and the microtubule inhibitor monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). SBPD-1 demonstrated high binding affinity to PSMA (Ki = 8.84 nM) and selective cytotoxicity to PSMA-expressing PC cell lines (IC50 = 3.90 nM). SBPD-1 demonstrated a significant survival benefit in two murine models of human PC relative to controls. The highest dose tested did not induce toxicity in immunocompetent mice. The high specific targeting ability of SBPD-1 to PSMA-expressing tumors and its favorable toxicity profile warrant its further development.
Alloying effect-induced electron polarization drives nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Yin Haibo , Peng Yue , Xiong Shangchao , Chen Jianjun , Wang Chizhong , Wang Rong , Chen Zhen , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Luo Jingshan , Yamashita Hiromi , Li Junhua
Published: December 2020

Electrocatalytic conversion of nitrate (NO3-) to ammonia (NH3) holds significant potential in the control of nitrogen oxide (NOx) from stationary sources. However, previous studies on reaction intermediates remain unclear. Here we report that Pd/Cu2O hybrids with mesoporous hollow sphere structure show high selectivity (96.70%) and Faradaic efficiency (94.32%) for NH3 synthesis from NO3-. Detailed characterizations demonstrate that (1) Pd enables electrons transfer (Pd 3d → Cu 3d) and makes the polarization of Cu 3d orbitals by forming partial PdCu alloys, which makes Pd electron-deficiency but offers empty orbits to adsorb NO3-; (2) electron-rich Cu are more conducive to the occurrence of NO3- reduction. The mutual confirmation of online differential electrochemical mass spectrometry and density functional theory calculations demonstrates that PdCu alloys block the generation of *NOH intermediate and facilitate the formation of *N, finally leading to a higher catalytic performance.
Interdisciplinary approach in emergency revascularization and treatment for acute mesenteric ischemia
Authors: Zientara Alicja , Domenghino Anja-Rebeka , Schwegler Igor , Bruijnen Hans , Schnider Annelies , Weber Markus , Gutknecht Stefan , Attigah Nicolas
Published: December 2020

Background
Mesenteric ischemia is associated with poor outcome and high overall mortality. The aim was to analyze an interdisciplinary treatment approach of vascular and visceral specialists focusing on the in-hospital outcome and follow-up in patients with acute and acute-on-chronic mesenteric ischemia.

Methods
From 2010 until 2017, 26 consecutive patients were treated by an interdisciplinary team. Data were prospectively collected and retrospectively evaluated. Throughout the initial examination, the extent of bowel resection was determined by the visceral and the appropriate mode of revascularization by the vascular surgeon. The routine follow-up included ultrasound- or CT-imaging.

Results
Out of 26 patients, 18 (69.2%) were rendered for open repair. Ten patients received reconstruction of the superior mesenteric artery with an iliac-mesenteric bypass. Seven patients (26.9%) underwent thrombembolectomy of the mesenteric artery. One patient received an infra-diaphragmatic aorto-celiac-mesenteric bypass. Out of the 8 patients, who were not suitable for open revascularisation, 2 patients (7.7%) were treated endovascularly and 6 (23.1%) underwent explorative laparotomy.

The in-hospital mortality was 23% (n=6). The mean survival of the revascularized group (n=20) was 51.8 months (95% CI 39.1-64.5) compared to 15.7 months in the non-revascularized group (n=6) (95% CI -4.8-36.1; p=0.08). The median follow-up was 64.6 months. Primary patency in the 16 patients after open and 2 after interventional revascularisation was 100% and 89.9% in the follow-up.

Conclusion
The interdisciplinary treatment of mesenteric ischemia improves survival if carried out in time. Hereby open revascularization measures are advantageous as they allow bowel assessment, resection, and revascularization in a one-stop fashion especially in advanced cases.
Typology of fish nurseries in shallow Mediterranean coastal zones: all habitats matter
Authors: Cheminée Adrien , Direach Laurence Le , Rouanet Elodie , Astruch Patrick , Goujard Adrien , Blanfuné Aurélie , Bonhomme Denis , Chassaing Laureline , Jouvenel Jean-Yves , Ruitton Sandrine , Thibaut Thierry , Harmelin-Vivien Mireille
Published: December 2020

Coastal zones are ecosystems of high economic value but exposed to numerous disturbances, while they represent nurseries for many fish species, raising the issue of the preservation of their functions and services. In this context, the juvenile fish assemblages of all types of habitats present in shallow coastal zones were studied on the south-east coast of France using underwater visual censuses. The abiotic and biotic descriptors of the 14 habitat types individualized did not vary with time, except for a higher cover percentage and canopy height of macrophytes in the warm period, which increased the three-dimensional structure of some habitats. The taxonomic composition and density of juvenile fish assemblages were analyzed using both multivariate and univariate descriptors, after grouping the 57 fish species recorded into 41 well-individualized taxa. Juvenile fishes were recorded in all habitat types, with higher mean species richness and abundance during the warm than the cold period. The richest habitats in terms of both species richness and abundance were the natural rocky substrates and the interfaces between Posidonia beds and the other habitats. Although juvenile fish assemblages differed among habitat types and between periods, the most abundant fish species (Atherina sp., Sarpa salpa, Gobiidae, Symphodus spp., Pagellus spp. and several Diplodus species) colonized different habitat types (from 7 to 14) during their juvenile life. This study provided evidence of the role of all types of shallow coastal habitats as fish nurseries and their varying pattern of occupation in space and time by the different juvenile stages. It highlighted the importance of the mosaic of habitats and interfaces for the complete development of all juvenile life stages of fishes, and for the preservation of a high diversity of coastal fish assemblages and fisheries resources in the Mediterranean Sea.
Mediating effects of empowerment on the relationship between global function and recovery among community-dwelling patients with schizophrenia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Wen I , Hsieh Wen Ling , Lee Shih Kai , Lee Kuen-Tai
Published: December 2020

Background: Functional degradation among community-dwelling patients with schizophrenia can negatively influence their recovery. Given the importance of patient empowerment during recovery, the current study aimed to examine the mediating effects of patient empowerment on the relationship between global function and recovery among such patients.Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited community-dwelling patients with schizophrenia from northern and central Taiwan. Questionnaires with verified reliability and validity were provided and collected on site by trained nurses. The causal steps approach proposed by Baron and Kenny and the Sobel test were utilized to verify the mediation effect.Results: A total of 373 participants completed the survey. After controlling for factors associated with recovery, empowerment was determined to exert “full mediation” over the effects of global function on patient recovery, with the mediation effect reaching 85.9% and the Sobel test indicating significant mediation.Conclusions: Although improving the global function of community-dwelling patients with schizophrenia could likely encourage recovery, the present study suggested that offering empowerment-oriented care services may be more effective than global function improvement on recovery among these patients.
Mentha longifolia and Citrus reticulata Essential Oils: Potential wood-biofungicide and MNDO Quantum Chemical Studies
Authors: Ali Hayssam M , Elgat Wael AA Abo , EL-Hefny Mervat , Salem Mohamed ZM , Taha Ayman S , Farraj Dunia A Al , Elshikh Mohamed S. , Hatamleh Ashraf A , Abdel-Salam Eslam M
Published: December 2020

Essential oils (EOs) from aerial parts from Mentha longifolia (Saudi cultivar) and Citrus reticulata grown in Egypt, were analyzed by GC/MS to identify their chemical compounds. The EOs were tested for their antifungal activity against four common fungi Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. fumigatus, and Fusarium culmorum. The most abundant compounds identified in the EO from M. longifolia were menthone, and eucalyptol with percentages of 48.00%, and 21.66%, respectively. The main chemical compounds from C. reticulata EO were β-caryophyllene, β-caryophyllene oxide, and β-elemene with values of 15.57%, 7.04%, and 6.39%, respectively. At the concentrations of 500 and 250 µL/mL, the EOs from M. longifolia and C. reticulata showed potent antifungal activity against A. flavus and A. fumigatus with 100% fungal mycelial inhibition growth (FMIG). FMIG with values of 98% and 95% were observed against A. fumigatus by C. reticulata and M. longifolia EOs, respectively, at 125 µL/mL. At 500 and 250 µL/mL levels of concentration from the EO of M. longifolia, potent antifungal activity found against A. niger with 100% FMIG. F. culmorum completely inhibited (100% FMIG) as EOs from M. longifolia and C. reticulata applied at 500 µL/mL. Pinus halepensis wood treated with M. longifolia at 125 µL/mL showed inhibition zone values of 7.33 mm, 21.33 mm A. flavus and Aspergillus niger, respectively. The results suggested the potential values of the EOs as potent antifungal activity against some common molds that grows over wood packaging during transportation of vegetables and fruits or can cause food spoilage.
Breast cancer and Chemotherapy Resilience: Exploring the experiences of female survivors in Ghana
Authors: Gbande Sulleh , Ohene Lillian , Aziato Lydia
Published: December 2020

Background: Chemotherapy is the most common treatment option for breast cancer in Ghana. Chemotherapy brings about unpleasant and traumatic experiences due to the effects of drugs on patients. Despite contexts specific variations, recent literature show improvement in breast cancer survival rates globally. Methods: This study aimed to explore factors that influenced resilience among women who completed chemotherapy for breast cancer in the Greater Accra Metropolis of Ghana. A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was adopted to study fifteen breast cancer survivors. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted in English using a semi-structured interview guide. Data collection and analysis occurred concurrently. All interviews were audio-recorded with consent from the participants. Using a thematic and content analysis approach, all interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded and themes and subthemes generated. Results: Two major themes and eight subthemes were generated. Thus, 1. The Burden associated with breast cancer diagnosis and treatment; with subthemes; Physical, Psychological, Social, Financial burdens. 2. Personal traits; and the subthemes; Hope, Optimism, Self-esteem, Confidence.Conclusions: The study concluded that chemotherapy is associated with biopsychosocial pain and economic burden. In the absence of organized support systems, surviving breast cancer treatment is influenced by individuals’ personality and emotional orientation to the disease.
5-day flooding followed by 3-day drainage wet-dry alternation cycle is highly effective in reducing Cd and As content in rice
Authors: Bao Qiongli , Bao Wankui , Li Yan , Zhang Shengnan , Huang Yizong
Published: December 2020

To comparatively and simultaneously investigate the reducing efficiency of the different wet-dry alternation cycles on the Cd and As absorption and transportation in rice organs, and synthesis of amino acids (AAs) in rice in two soils with different levels of Cd and As contamination, controlled pot experiments were conducted in this study. Results showed that wet-dry alternation treatments reduced Cd and As concentrations in grains by 18.8%-80% and by 77.4%-86.7% in W soil, respectively; and 76.1%-90.8% and 73.1%-80.6% in H soil, respectively. Cd and As concentrations in the soil solution were negatively and positively correlated with soil pH, respectively; but positively and negatively correlated with soil redox potential (Eh), respectively. The minimum “trade-off” values were observed in the 5 d Flooded followed by 3 d Drained treatment in both soils. The Drained treatment greatly improved AAs contents in rice organs in both soils. The changes of AAs were negatively explained more than 70% by the rachises As. Totally, the F5D3 treatment was identified as the optimal measure for simultaneously minimizing Cd and As accumulations in rice in studied soils, and water management regimes regulated the synthesis of AAs in rice organs by affecting the accumulation of As in rachises.
Metabolically Healthy Obesity and Physical Fitness in Military Males in the CHIEF Study
Authors: Wang Sheng-Huei , Chung Pei-Shou , Lin Yen-Po , Tsai Kun-Zhe , Lin Ssu-Chin , Fan Chia-Hao , Lin Yu-Kai , Lin Gen-Min
Published: December 2020

The metabolically healthy obese (MHO) characterized by the absence of abdominal obesity have been reported to have superior cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) than the metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO). However, this finding might be biased by the baseline sedentary behavior in the general population.This study utilized 3,669 physically active military males aged 18-50 years in Taiwan. Obesity and metabolically unhealthy were respectively defined as body mass index ≥27.5 kg/m2 and waist circumference ≥90 cm, specifically for Asian male adults. Four groups were accordingly classified as the metabolically healthy lean (MHL, n=2,607), metabolically unhealthy lean (MUL, n=234), MHO (n=208) and MUO (n=620). CRF was evaluated by time for a 3-kilometer run, and muscular strengths were separately assessed by numbers of push-up and sit-up within 2 minutes. Analysis of covariance was utilized to compare the difference in each exercise performance between groups adjusting for age, service specialty, smoking, alcohol intake, and physical activity.The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in MUO, MHO, MUL and MHL was 45.3% 13.0%, 29.1% and 3.7%, respectively. The performance of CRF did not differ between MHO and MUO (895.3±5.1 sec and 891.5±3.1 sec, p=0.68) which were both inferior to MUL and MHL (877.5±4.8 sec and 849.5±1.4 sec, all p-values <0.05). The performance of muscular strengths evaluated by 2-minute push-ups did not differ between MUL and MUO (44.8±0.2 and 45.2±0.5, p=0.40) which were both less than MHO and MHL (48.1±0.8 and 50.5±0.2, all p-values <0.05). However, the performance of 2-minute sit- ups were only superior in MHL (48.0±0.2) as compared with MUL, MHO and MUO (46.0±0.5, 46.7±0.5 and 46.2±0.3, respectively, all p-values <0.05).Our findings suggested that in a physically active male cohort, the MHO might have greater muscle strengths, but have similar CRF level compared with the MUO.
Kinetic Comparative Study on Aerodynamic Characteristics of Hypersonic Reentry Vehicle from Near-Continuous Flow to Free Molecular Flow
Authors: Li Jin , Jiang Dingwu , Geng Xiangren , Chen Jianqiang
Published: December 2020

A scaled model of the X38-like configuration was simulated under hypersonic conditions by the direct simulation Monte Carlo method and the unified gas kinetic scheme. The inflow conditions considered several different flow regimes, from the near-continuum though the slip-transitional to the free molecule regime. Flow fields and surface properties were compared in details between two methods. Not only the density and temperature contours distribution but also the surface pressure, heat flux, friction distribution, both kinetic methods give fairly consistent results. Aerodynamics of the model under hypersonic rarefied conditions were also obtained and compared. The results given by both methods agreed with each other very well. The effects of the Knudsen number and angle of attack were assessed. At the absence of experimental results, it is meaningful to carry out comparative studies and accelerate both methods to further progress.
Facilitating Harmonized Data Quality Assessments. A Data Quality Framework for Observational Health Research Data Collections With Software Implementations in R
Authors: Schmidt Carsten , Struckmann Stephan , Enzenbach Cornelia , Reineke Achim , Stausberg Jürgen , Damerow Stefan , Huebner Marianne , Schmitt Börge , Sauerbrei Willi , Richter Adrian
Published: December 2020

Background No standards exist for the handling and reporting of data quality in health research. This work introduces a data quality framework for observational health research data collections with supporting software implementations to facilitate harmonized data quality assessments. Methods Developments were guided by the evaluation of an existing data quality framework and literature reviews. Functions for the computation of data quality indicators were written in R. The concept and implementations are illustrated based on data from the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP).Results The data quality framework comprises 34 data quality indicators. These target three aspects of data quality: compliance with pre-specified structural and technical requirements (Integrity), presence of data values (completeness), and error in the data values (correctness). R functions calculate data quality metrics based on the provided study data and metadata and R Markdown reports are generated. Guidance on the concept and tools is available through a dedicated website. Conclusions The presented data quality framework is the first of its kind for observational health research data collections that links a formal concept to implementations in R. The framework and tools facilitate harmonized data quality assessments in pursue of transparent and reproducible research. Application scenarios comprise data quality monitoring while a study is carried out as well as performing an initial data analysis before starting substantive scientific analyses.
A Mechanical Parts Image Segmentation Method Against Illumination for Industry
Authors: Xie Xin , Wan Tiancheng , Wang Bin , Xu Lei , Li Xinlei
Published: December 2020

Most of the current image edge detection methods rely on manually features to extract the edge, there are often false and missed detections when the image has adverse interference. The surface of mechanical parts is smooth, when taking photos in the industrial field, it is easy to have specular reflection and shadow at the same time, which will affect the edge detection results. In order to achieve excellent edge detection performance, we propose a semantic segmentation model based on encoder-decoder structure. It adopts joint learning strategy, using two decoders to process image decomposition task and segmentation task respectively, and sharing their parameters to eliminate the influence of illumination, so as to improve segmentation performance. In the training phase, the asymmetric convolution and BN fusion are combined to improve the detection efficiency. In addition, we built a gear part dataset for experimentation. The result shows that in the task of edge detection of mechanical parts affected by illumination, our method has better performance than classical method.
Efficacy of broflanilide (VECTRONTM T500) a new meta-diamide insecticide, for indoor residual spraying against pyrethroid-resistant malaria vectors.
Authors: Ngufor Corine , Govoetchan Renaud , Fongnikin Augustin , Vigninou Estelle , Syme Thomas , Akogbeto Martin , Rowland Mark
Published: December 2020

The rotational use of insecticides with different modes of action for indoor residual spraying (IRS) is recommended for improving malaria vector control and managing insecticide resistance. Insecticides with new chemistries are urgently needed. Broflanilide is a newly discovered insecticide under consideration. We investigated the efficacy of a wettable powder (WP) formulation of broflanilide (VECTRON T500) for IRS on mud and cement wall substrates in laboratory and experimental hut studies against pyrethroid-resistant malaria vectors in Benin, in comparison with pirimiphos-methyl CS (Actellic 300CS). There was no evidence of cross-resistance to pyrethroids and broflanilide in CDC bottle bioassays. In laboratory cone bioassays, broflanilide WP treated substrates killed >80% susceptible and pyrethroid-resistant An. gambiae sl for 6-14 months. At application rates of 100mg/m2 and 150 mg/m2, mortality of wild pyrethroid-resistant An. gambiae sl entering experimental huts in Covè, Benin treated with VECTRON T500 was similar to pirimiphos-methyl CS (57%-66% vs. 56%, P>0.05). Throughout the 6-month hut trial, monthly wall cone bioassay mortality on VECTRON T500 treated hut walls remained >80%. IRS with broflanilide shows potential to significantly improve the control of malaria transmitted by pyrethroid-resistant mosquito vectors and could thus be a crucial addition to the current portfolio of IRS insecticides.