bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The roles of community resilience and risk appraisal in climate change adaptation: the experience of the Kannagi Nagar resettlement in Chennai
Authors: Haas Sarah , Gianoli Alberto , Van Eerd Maartje
Published: February 2021

This study sheds light on the effects of community resilience and risk appraisal on climate change adaptation behaviour within the context of the resettlement site of Kannagi Nagar in Chennai, India. The residents of Kannagi Nagar, built on flood-prone marshlands, are exposed to the risks of flooding and water scarcity. Data were collected at the household level through a questionnaire and interviews to investigate activities contributing to community resilience, their interrelatedness, and the influence of community resilience and risk appraisal on household adaptation behaviour. Findings show that community resilience – assessed using the five core dimensions of trust, place attachment, collective efficacy, social networks and social support – significantly and positively influences adaptation actions. This implies that only when the inhabitants of Kannagi Nagar are supported by their social networks and have confidence in their community’s capabilities, can greater risk awareness increase the number of adaptation measures taken.
Genetic Toxicity Studies of the Ketogenic Ester Bis Hexanoyl (R)-1,3-Butanediol
Authors: Stubbs Brianna J. , Nikiforov Andrey I. , Rihner Marisa O. , Weston Sari , Higley Nancy , Roy Shambhu , Dakoulas Emily , Verdin Eric , Newman John C.
Published: February 2021

A series of studies was conducted to assess the genetic toxicity of a novel ketone ester, bis hexanoyl (R)-1,3-butanediol (herein referred to as BH-BD), according to Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development testing guidelines under the standards of Good Laboratory Practices. In bacterial reverse mutation tests, there was no evidence of mutagenic activity in any of the Salmonella typhimurium strains tested or in Escherichia coli strain WP2 uvrA, at dose levels up to 5,000 μg/plate in the presence or absence of Aroclor 1254-induced rat liver (S9 mix) for metabolic activation. In the in vitro micronucleus test using human TK6 cells, BH-BD did not show a statistically significant increase in the number of cells containing micronuclei when compared with concurrent control cultures at all time points and at any of the concentrations analyzed (up to 100 μg/mL, final concentration in culture medium), with and without S9 mix activation. In the in vivo micronucleus test using Sprague Dawley rats, BH-BD did not show a statistically significant increase in the incidence of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes relative to the vehicle control group. Therefore, BH-BD was concluded to be negative in all 3 tests. These results support the safety assessment of BH-BD for potential use in food.
Borders as penal transplants: Control of territory, mobility and illegality in West Africa
Authors: Stambøl Eva Magdalena
Published: February 2021

This article explores an increasingly significant trend in crime and mobility control that has received scant criminological attention: border externalization, specifically scrutinizing land border security-building by international actors in West Africa. Going beyond the usual focus on migration in border studies, it develops a criminologically grounded theorization of the border as a political technology of crime control and its relationship to the state. This is done by arguing that borders, theorized as ‘penal transplants’ embodying specific (western) visions of state, political power, social control/order and territoriality, are transformed and often distorted when performed in ‘heterarchical’ contexts in the global South. Further, empirically based concepts from ‘the periphery’ are suggested to enrich border criminology, broadening its geographical scope and spatial awareness.
The COVID-19 pandemic and war
Authors: Gugushvili Alexi , Mckee Martin
Published: February 2021

Could there be a symbiotic relationship between COVID-19 and conflict? On the one hand, circumstances associated with armed conflicts may give rise to greater spread of the virus, while, on the other hand, the COVID-19 pandemic may create conditions for violence through heightened xenophobia and nationalism or may change the dynamics of existing conflicts. We illustrate this with the example of war in the South Caucasus, one of the hot spots of the pandemic. Elsewhere, COVID-19 may have reduced the intensity of conflicts in some places, but it also may have contributed to anti-government protests and communal violence. We call for greater emphasis on traditional public health measures in unstable settings coupled with actions to hasten the peaceful resolution of ongoing conflicts.
Effect of multipass cold plastic deformation and heat treatment on the mechanical properties of C250 marageing steel for aerospace applications
Authors: Kasana Shivraj Singh , Pandey OP
Published: February 2021

The present investigation is aimed to reduce the cost of production of various components fabricated by using cold rolled C250 marageing steel in the aerospace applications like landing gears of aeroplane and spacecraft. As cast C250 marageing steel was forged and solution annealed as per the specification of the customer. Forged C250 steel was cold rolled from 15 to 300%. Microstructure analysis revealed that grains got refined and elongated in the direction of cold working. Cold drawing increases the hardness, tensile strength and yield strength. However, loss in ductility and impact strength was observed. Scanning electron microscope fractographs of tensile and impact samples showed elongation of the dimples in cold working direction. The increase in cold working reduces the size of dimples indicating the transformation of fracture nature from the ductile-to-brittle regime. At higher cold working, >170% led to intergranular tearing and resulted in a loss of impact and mechanical properties of the steel. Further, cryogenic treatment of cold rolled C250 steel delayed ageing causing increase in tensile and yield strength with a marginal loss in ductility. The cost estimation of C250 steel revealed a significant cost saving (Indian Rupees [INR] 7500/1000 kg) for components made from different diameters of cold rolled steel over the solution annealed steel.
Hybrid Repair With Endovascular Debranching of the Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery for Complicated Type B Aortic Dissection in Patients With Kommerell’s Diverticulum
Authors: Chien Yu-Chen , Chou Nai-Kuan , Wu I-Hui
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

Aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) associated with Kommerell’s diverticulum (KD) is a common congenital arch anomaly. It can be complicated by type B aortic dissection (TBAD) or aneurysmal formation at its ostium. Recently, hybrid repair with thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has appeared to be more favorable. Due to the normal anatomic proximity of the ARSA to the left subclavian artery (LSA) orifice in KD, coverage of the bilateral subclavian arteries (SCAs) to obtain an adequate proximal landing zone (PLZ) is usually required, and double cervicotomy for SCA revascularization potentially increases the risk of complications.

Technique:

This technique was demonstrated on a 50-year-old man presenting with progressive aneurysmal formation of KD with ARSA after chronic TBAD. A 3-step technique, namely left cervical debranching with a left common carotid artery to LSA bypass graft, TEVAR, and an LSA-to-ARSA endovascular debranching with a self-expanding covered stent by a through-and-through wire from the right brachial artery to the bypass graft, was performed in a 1-stage repair to cover the primary tear of TBAD and preserve the bilateral SCAs. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusion:

This technique can prevent complications from double cervicotomy and achieve an adequate PLZ with preservation of the bilateral SCAs for TEVAR.
Label-Free Quantitative Comparison of Cervical Mucus Peptides in Subjects With Endocervical Adenocarcinoma and Adenocarcinoma in Situ
Authors: Shi Feng , Li Xiaohui , Ma Zhifang , Luan Ting , Zhong Tianying , Gu Yun
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

To uncover potential diagnostic biomarkers for endocervical adenocarcinoma (EAC) and adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS).

Experimental design:

Quantitative label-free liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) peptidomics strategies were employed to profile 8 cervical mucus (CM) samples, including 3 EAC cases, 2 AIS cases and 3 normal controls (Ctrl).

Results:

Among the 3721 exclusive peptides identified, 12 (5 up-regulated and 7 down-regulated) endogenous peptides were significantly expressed in EAC compared to healthy controls (EAC/Ctrl); 10 (7 up-regulated and 3 down-regulated) endogenous peptides were significantly expressed in AIS compared to healthy controls (AIS/Ctrl); 11 (6 up-regulated and 5 down-regulated) endogenous peptides were significantly expressed in EAC compared to AIS (EAC/AIS) (absolute fold change ≥1.5, Benjamini-Hochberg adjusted p-value ≤0.05). Among these identifications, annexin A1 (ANXA1) was found to be down-regulated both in EAC and AIS, and its unique peptide (FIENEEQEYVQTVK) may be promising indicators for cervical glandular epithelial lesions.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to utilize CM peptidomics in cervical glandular malignancies, which may reveal the novel noninvasive biomarkers for EAC and AIS.
Clever Cats: Do They Utilize Change Blindness as a Covered Approaching Strategy?
Authors: Pastukhov Alexander , Carbon Claus-Christian
Published: February 2021

Sometimes, we do not notice big changes in our environment, if these changes occur while we perform eye movements or external events interrupt our perception. This striking phenomenon is known as “change blindness.” Research on chimpanzees, macaques, and pigeons suggests that change blindness may not be unique to humans, but our understanding is limited by the difficulty of carrying out change blindness experiments in animals. However, let’s have a look to the habitats of some of our most beloved four-legged friends: cats and dogs. Here, we list several online videos with cats and a husky appear to use humans’ change blindness to their advantage to sneak upon them. Thus, we might be able to deduce the effects of change blindness and other perceptual phenomena from animals’ behaviour. Our clear message: Watch more (cat) videos! Watch them as perceptual scientists by means of observing and analysing the cat’s behaviour.
Posterior Vertebral Column Resection (pVCR) for Severe Thoracolumbar Kyphosis in Patients With Achondroplasia
Authors: Wang Hai , Wang Shengru , Wu Nan , Wang Shujie , Qiu Guixing , Zhang Jianguo
Published: February 2021

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the safety and validity of posterior vertebral column resection (pVCR) for severe thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK) in the achondroplasia (ACH) patients.

Methods:

Seven ACH patients (male: female = 6:1) who underwent pVCR procedures due to severe TLK from December 2008 to December 2017 in the authors’ hospital were included in this retrospective study. Their mean follow-up duration was 67 ± 35 months. Their clinical characteristics, radiologic characteristics, surgical characteristics and surgical complications were reviewed.

Results:

A total of 8 vertebrae were removed with an average of 5 ± 2 levels of decompression and 9 ± 2 segments instrumented. The mean correction rates of TLKs and the main curves were 73 ± 15% and 87 ± 6%, respectively. Five patients (71%) had preoperative neurological symptoms with a mean Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score of 8 ± 3 points. Their neurological functions were all improved, with a recovery rate of 78 ± 32% for the JOA score at the last follow-up. Four patients (57%) suffered from surgical complications, including rod breakages (43%), neurological complications (28%), dural tears (14%), cerebrospinal fluid leaks (14%) and proximal junction kyphosis (14%).

Conclusions:

pVCR can offer a good correction for TLK and improve neurological function with extensive laminectomies in ACH patients. But the morbidity of surgical complications is relatively high. Therefore, it is a reserved surgical option for severe TLK in ACH patients by experienced spinal surgeons, especially with apical markedly hypoplastic vertebrae.
M. K. Gandhi, Our Moral Action Compass: His Selected Guiding Communications for the Changing India
Authors: Khare R. S.
Published: February 2021

This paper discusses M. K. Gandhi’s selected short writings of the early and mid-twentieth century by topics, themes and some major timely issues. Gandhi’s April 1933 advice to his readers, spelling his central moral–spiritual experiential truths, frames this writing. In an apperceptive view of Gandhi, he morally, spiritually, and socially ‘contextualized’ and ‘nuanced’ his direct, concise writings. These expressed his life’s core: ‘truth and nonviolence’. Three following topics exemplify his daily regimens in ‘food, health and hygiene’, commentaries on independence-seeking India during the troubled and violent 1940s, and his last 1947 radio speech. The two concluding sections overview how twenty-first-century 3.4 billion modern Indians still lack unity across different castes, religions and regional socioeconomic inequalities. Gandhi’s self-cultivated, disciplined moral, social, and civil bonds are needed. The drivers of such change must be the morally inspired, self-disciplined diverse younger Indians.
Patient-Reported Outcomes and Radiographic Assessment in Primary and Revision Stage II, III, and IV Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity Surgery
Authors: Nayak Rusheel , Patel Milap S. , Kadakia Anish R.
Published: February 2021

Background:

Progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) is a progressive hindfoot and midfoot deformity causing pain and disability. Although operative treatment is stage dependent, few studies have looked at patient-reported and radiographic outcomes stratified by primary vs revision stage II, III, and IV reconstruction surgery. Our goal was to assess operative improvement using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) and to determine whether radiographic parameter improvement correlates with patient-reported outcomes.

Methods:

PROMIS Physical Function (PF) and Pain Interference (PI) scores were prospectively obtained on 46 consecutive patients who underwent PCFD reconstruction between November 2013 and January 2019. Thirty-six patients completed pre- and postoperative PROMIS surveys, 6 patients completed only preoperative PROMIS surveys, and 4 patients completed 12-month postoperative PROMIS surveys but did not complete preoperative PROMIS surveys. Minimum follow-up was 12 (average, 23) months. Radiographic correction was measured with pre- and postoperative weightbearing radiographs and correlated with PROMIS scores. Measurements included the talonavicular uncoverage angle, talonavicular uncoverage percentage, anteroposterior talo–first metatarsal angle, Meary angle, medial cuneiform height (MCH), and medial cuneiform–fifth metatarsal height.

Results:

For the overall cohort, PROMIS PF increased significantly from 37.5±5.6 to 42.3±7.1 ( P = .0014). PROMIS PI improved significantly from 64.5±6.0 to 55.1±9.8 ( P < .0001). Preoperative, postoperative, and change in PROMIS scores were not statistically different between PCFD stages. Change in PROMIS PI was significantly greater in primary (–12.3) vs revision (–3.7) surgery ( P = .0157). Change in PROMIS PF was greater in primary (+6.0) vs revision surgery (+2.3) but did not reach statistical significance. All radiographic measurements improved significantly ( P < .05). In primary stage II PCFD, postoperative PROMIS scores correlated with postoperative MCH (PF: r = 0.7725, P = .0020; PI: r = –0.5692, P = .0446).

Conclusion:

Patient-reported and radiographic outcomes improved significantly after PCFD reconstruction. We found no significant difference in preoperative, postoperative, or change in PROMIS scores between PCFD stages. However, stage III patients had smaller improvements in PROMIS PF, which we feel may be secondary to change in function after arthrodesis. Primary operations had better patient-reported outcomes compared to revision operations. In primary stage II PCFD, reconstructing the medial arch height correlated significantly with improvement in pain and functionality.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective cohort study.
Multidisciplinary care models for patients with lung cancer
Authors: Hardavella Georgia , Frille Armin , Theochari Christina , Keramida Elli , Bellou Elena , Fotineas Andreas  , Bracka Irma , Pappa Loukia , Zagana Vaia , Palamiotou Maria , Demertzis Panagiotis  , Karampinis Ioannis
Published: February 2021

Multidisciplinary care is the cornerstone of lung cancer treatment in the developed world, even though there is a relative lack of consistent evidence that this care model improves outcomes. In this review, we present the available literature regarding how to set up and run an efficient multidisciplinary care model for lung cancer patients with emphasis on team members’ roles and responsibilities. Moreover, we present some limited evidence about multidisciplinary care and its impact on lung cancer outcomes and survival.

This review provides simple guidance on setting up and running a multidisciplinary service for lung cancer patients. It highlights the importance of defined roles and responsibilities for team members. It also presents concise information based on the literature regarding the impact of multidisciplinary care in lung cancer outcomes (e.g.survival of patients undergoing lung cancer surgery).
Proteomic analysis of decidua in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) reveals mitochondrial oxidative stress dysfunction
Authors: Yin Xiang-Jie , Hong Wei , Tian Fu-Ju , Li Xiao-Cui
Published: February 2021

Background

Pregnancy is a complicated physiological process. The multifaceted regulation of maternal–fetal interface is of great importance for maintaining normal pregnancy and avoiding fetal rejection and secondary abortion. Previous studies have focused on the clinical features or pathological biomarkers of fetal rejection and abortion. However, no significant breakthrough has been made. Therefore, it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) to identify potential therapeutic strategies. The aim of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis of RPL.

Methods

In this study, Relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) technology integrated with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis was used to identify differentially expressed proteins in decidual from RPL patients and matched normal controls. Further, Molecules NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] 1 beta subcomplex subunit 3 (ndufb3) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were validated by immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, CCK8 and mitochondrial red fluorescent probe (Mito-Tracker Red CMXRos).

Results

A total of 456 proteins reached the threshold of a 1.5-fold change were identified for further bioinformatics analysis. Upon mapping the differentially expressed proteins using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways database, iTRAQ results were confirmed by assessing NDUFB3 and COX-2 protein levels in specimens of decidual tissue by Western blotting. Our study indicates that the level of COX-2 and NDUFB3 were significantly increased in decidual cell from RPL patients. Overexpression of NDUFB3 inhibited cell vitality and oxidative stress of decimal cell. Further, our found that overexpression NDUFBD3 in decidual cell decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential expression levels. These results suggest that NDUFB3 might play an important role in promote the pathological process of RPL.

Conclusions

This comprehensive analysis of RPL proteomics reveals novel candidate: NDUFB3, which could be further investigated for explanation of the pathological mechanism of RPL.
Retrograde intrarenal surgery for the treatment of renal stones in patients with a solitary kidney: Does access sheath matter?
Authors: Mahmood Sarwar Noori , Babarasul Mohammed Hussein , Fakhralddin Saman Salih , Tawfeeq Hewa Mahmood
Published: February 2021

Background

Treating renal stones in patients with a solitary functioning kidney is challenging. The present study was aimed to assess the competence and safety of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for the treatment of renal stones in a solitary kidney.

Methods

Between August of 2017 and August of 2019, 25 ensuing patients with a solitary kidney and renal calculi and who were treated with RIRS were prospectively enlisted in the study. All patients were assessed by non-contrast computed tomography before surgery. Stone-free status was determined if there were no residual fragments. The final stone-free rates (SFRs) were assessed 3 months after the last treatment session by plain X-ray KUB and ultrasonography. Patient demographics, perioperative and postoperative outcomes were prospectively evaluated. Serum creatinine levels and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) pre-procedure and during follow-up were correlated.

Results

Twenty-five patients underwent 26 procedures. The mean patient age was 42.81 ± 12.3 (range 22–67) years. The mean stone size was 18.23 ± 6.27 mm (range 9–25 mm) and the mean operative time was 46.15 ± 15.34 min (range 25–100 min). A ureteral access sheath (UAS) was used in five (19.2%) pre-stented patients. One patient (3.8%) required the second stage RIRS for residual stones. The SFR after the initial and final procedures, the SFR was 84% and 92%, respectively.

The mean serum creatinine levels were significantly reduced post-surgery compared to preoperative levels (1.76 ± 1.21 mg/dL; 1.37 ± 0.60 mg/dL; p value 0.001) while GFR not encounter any significant variation post-surgery (63.04 ± 33.16 ml/min) compared to preoperative rates (61.12 ± 34.76 ml/min, p value 0.502). Minor complications classified as Clavien I or II developed in 5 patients (20%). Clavien IIIb, a major complication, developed in one (4%) patient, which was caused by steinstrasse and necessitated emergency surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Renal stones in a solitary kidney can be managed using RIRS safely and effectively with and without the use of UAS, without compromising renal function.
Effects of Cell Proteostasis Network on the Survival of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Khomari Fateme , Nabi-Afjadi Mohsen , Yarahmadi Sahar , Eskandari Hanie , Bahreini Elham
Published: February 2021

The proteostasis network includes all the factors that control the function of proteins in their native state and minimize their non-functional or harmful reactions. The molecular chaperones, the important mediator in the proteostasis network can be considered as any protein that contributes to proper folding and assembly of other macromolecules, through maturating of unfolded or partially folded macromolecules, refolding of stress-denatured proteins, and modifying oligomeric assembly, otherwise it leads to their proteolytic degradation. Viruses that use the hosts’ gene expression tools and protein synthesis apparatus to survive and replicate, are obviously protected by such a host chaperone system. This means that many viruses use members of the hosts’ chaperoning system to infect the target cells, replicate, and spread. During viral infection, increase in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress due to high expression of viral proteins enhances the level of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and induces cell apoptosis or necrosis. Indeed, evidence suggests that ER stress and the induction of unfolded protein response (UPR) may be a major aspect of the corona-host virus interaction. In addition, several clinical reports have confirmed the autoimmune phenomena in COVID-19-patients, and a strong association between this autoimmunity and severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Part of such autoimmunity is due to shared epitopes among the virus and host. This article reviews the proteostasis network and its relationship to the immune system in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Anoctamin 1 antagonism potentiates conventional tocolytic-mediated relaxation of pregnant human uterine smooth muscle
Authors: Hyuga Shunsuke , Parry Robert C. , Danielsson Jennifer , Vink Joy , Fu Xiao Wen , Wu Amy , Dan William , Yim Peter D. , Gallos George
Published: February 2021

Background

Currently available tocolytic agents are not effective treatment for preterm labor beyond 48 h. A major reason is the development of maternal side effects which preclude the maintenance of an effective steady-state drug concentration. One strategy that can mitigate these side effects is utilizing synergistic drug combinations to reduce the drug concentrations necessary to elicit a clinical effect. We have previously shown that three anoctamin 1 (ANO1) antagonists mediate potent relaxation of precontracted human uterine smooth muscle (USM). In this study, we aimed to determine whether a combination of sub-relaxatory doses of tocolytic drugs in current clinical use [the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) blocker, nifedipine (NIF); and the β2-adrenergic (β2AR) agonist, terbutaline (TRB)] will potentiate USM relaxation with two ANO1 antagonists [benzbromarone (BB) and MONNA (MN)].

Objective

This study sought to examine the synergistic potency and mechanistic basis of two ANO1 antagonists with currently available tocolytic drugs. Functional endpoints assessed included relaxation of pre-contracting pregnant human USM tissue, inhibition of intracellular calcium release, and reduction of spontaneous transient inward current (STIC) recordings in human uterine smooth muscle cells.

Methods

Human myometrial strips and primary human USM cells were used in organ bath and calcium flux experiments with different combinations of sub-threshold doses of ANO1 antagonists and terbutaline or nifedipine to determine if ANO1 antagonists potentiate tocolytic drugs.

Results

The combination of sub-threshold doses of two ANO1 antagonists and current tocolytic drugs demonstrate a significant degree of synergy to relax human pregnant USM compared to the effects achieved when these drugs are administered individually.

Conclusion

A combination of sub-threshold doses of VGCC blocker and β2AR agonist with ANO1 antagonists potentiates relaxation of oxytocin-induced contractility and calcium flux in human USM ex vivo. Our findings may serve as a foundation for novel tocolytic drug combinations.
Transcriptome sequencing and metabolome analysis of food habits domestication from live prey fish to artificial diets in mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi)
Authors: He Shan , You Jun-Jie , Liang Xu-Fang , Zhang Zhi-Lu , Zhang Yan-Peng
Published: February 2021

Background

As economical traits, food habits domestication can reduce production cost in aquaculture. However, the molecular mechanism underlying food habits domestication has remained elusive. Mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi) only feed on live prey fish and refuse artificial diets. In the present study, we domesticated mandarin fish to feed on artificial diets. The two groups were obtained, the fish did not eat artificial diets or ate artificial diets during all of the three domestication processes, named Group W or X, respectively.

Results

Using transcriptome and metabolome analysis, we investigated the differentially expressed genes and metabolites between the two groups, and found three common pathways related to food habit domestication, including retinol metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, and biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids pathways. Furthermore, the western blotting and bisulfite sequencing PCR analysis were performed. The gene expression of TFIIF and histone methyltransferase ezh1 were significantly increased and decreased in the fish of Group X, respectively. The total DNA methylation levels of TFIIF gene and tri-methylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) were significantly higher and lower in the fish of Group X, respectively.

Conclusion

It was speculated that mandarin fish which could feed on artificial diets, might be attributed to the lower expression of ezh1, resulting in the decreased level of H3K27me3 and increased level of DNA methylation of TFIIF gene. The high expression of TFIIF gene might up-regulate the expression of genes in retinol metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism and glycerophosphoric metabolism pathways. Our study indicated the relationship between the methylation of DNA and histone and food habits domestication, which might be a novel molecular mechanism of food habits domestication in animals.
Identification and functional analysis of the SARS-COV-2 nucleocapsid protein
Authors: Gao Tianyi , Gao Yingdong , Liu Xiangxiang , Nie Zhenlin , Sun Huilin , Lin Kang , Peng Hongxin , Wang Shukui
Published: February 2021

Background

A severe form of pneumonia, named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by the World Health Organization is widespread on the whole world. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was proved to be the main agent of COVID-19. In the present study, we conducted an in depth analysis of the SARS-COV-2 nucleocapsid to identify potential targets that may allow identification of therapeutic targets.

Methods

The SARS-COV-2 N protein subcellular localization and physicochemical property was analyzed by PSORT II Prediction and ProtParam tool. Then SOPMA tool and swiss-model was applied to analyze the structure of N protein. Next, the biological function was explored by mass spectrometry analysis and flow cytometry. At last, its potential phosphorylation sites were analyzed by NetPhos3.1 Server and PROVEAN PROTEIN.

Results

SARS-COV-2 N protein composed of 419 aa, is a 45.6 kDa positively charged unstable hydrophobic protein. It has 91 and 49% similarity to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV and is predicted to be predominantly a nuclear protein. It mainly contains random coil (55.13%) of which the tertiary structure was further determined with high reliability (95.76%). Cells transfected with SARS-COV-2 N protein usually show a G1/S phase block company with an increased expression of TUBA1C, TUBB6. At last, our analysis of SARS-COV-2 N protein predicted a total number of 12 phosphorylated sites and 9 potential protein kinases which would significantly affect SARS-COV-2 N protein function.

Conclusion

In this study, we report the physicochemical properties, subcellular localization, and biological function of SARS-COV-2 N protein. The 12 phosphorylated sites and 9 potential protein kinase sites in SARS-COV-2 N protein may serve as promising targets for drug discovery and development for of a recombinant virus vaccine.
Body mass index changes: an assessment of the effects of age and gender using the e-norms method
Authors: Jabre Joe F. , Bland Jeremy D.P.
Published: February 2021

Background

To validate e-norms methodology in establishing a reference range for body mass index measures. A new method, the extrapolated norms (e-norms) method of determining normal ranges for biological variables is easy to use and recently was validated for several biological measurements. We aimed to determine whether this new method provides BMI results in agreement with established traditionally collected BMI values.

Methods

We applied the e-norms method to BMI data from 34,384 individuals and compared the ranges derived from this method with those from a large actuarially based study and explored differences in the normal range by gender, and age.

Results

The e-norms derived range of healthy BMI in adults is from 22.7 to 30.6, and showed that BMI is consistently higher in men than in women and increases with age, except in subjects aged 80–98 years in whom healthy BMI appears to be lower.

Conclusions

Our e-norms derived healthy BMI ranges agree with traditionally obtained actuarially based methods, supporting the validity and ease of use of our method.
Access to chronic medicines: patients’ preferences for a last kilometre medicine delivery service in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Adams Siraaj , Mulubwa Mwila , van Huyssteen Mea , Bheekie Angeni
Published: February 2021

Background

Chronic patients are required to access their chronic medicines on a regular basis, often only to refill their repeat prescriptions. Adherence to chronic medicines is challenging and has stimulated health care providers to devise differentiated service delivery models of care to decentralise chronic medicine distribution to decrease the frequency of medicine collection at health care facilities. One such option includes a last kilometre medicine delivery service. This study investigated chronic patients’ preferences for a last kilometre medicine delivery service model.

Methods

An exploratory non-randomised quantitative study was conducted over 4 weeks at four public sector primary health care facilities in Cape Town, South Africa. Data was collected on a structured questionnaire from chronic patients queuing to receive medication at each facility’s pharmacy waiting area. Patient demographics were noted to align with preferences for chronic medicine service delivery characteristics including; mobile ordering, fee for service and location for delivery. Chi-square test and frequencies were employed to analyse data using SPSS version 23.

Results

A total of 116 patients participated in this study. Most were interested in a medicine delivery service (80.2%) and were willing to use a mobile application to order their medicines (84.5%). Almost all patients (96.8%) preferred that their medicines be delivered to their home. More than three quarters of participants were willing to pay for the service (77.6%). Chi-square test showed that gender, age group, employment status, distance to the health facility and /or average waiting time at the clinic significantly influenced the preference for certain characteristics of the medicine delivery service (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Most participants were interested in a last kilometre medicine delivery service, especially those older than 45 years, waiting for more than 6 h at the facility, and staying within one kilometre radius of the clinic. More studies are needed to establish the influence of patients’ employment status and the distance to health facility on interest in the medicine delivery service.
Prevalence of comorbidity in Chinese patients with COVID-19: systematic review and meta-analysis of risk factors
Authors: Yin Tingxuan , Li Yuanjun , Ying Ying , Luo Zhijun
Published: February 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease characterized by cough, fever, and fatigue and 20% of cases will develop into severe conditions resulting from acute lung injury with the manifestation of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) that accounts for more than 50% of mortality. Currently, it has been reported that some comorbidities are linked with an increased rate of severity and mortality among COVID-19 patients. To assess the role of comorbidity in COVID-19 progression, we performed a systematic review with a meta-analysis on the relationship of COVID-19 severity with 8 different underlying diseases.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI were searched for articles investigating the prevalence of comorbidities in severe and non-severe COVID-19 patients. A total of 41 studies comprising 12,526 patients were included.

Results

Prevalence of some commodities was lower than that in general population such as hypertension (19% vs 23.2%), diabetes (9% vs 10.9%), chronic kidney disease (CKD) (2% vs 9.5%), chronic liver diseases (CLD) (3% vs 24.8%) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (3% vs 8.6%), while some others including cancer (1% vs 0.6%), cardiovascular disease (6% vs 1.8%) and cerebrovascular disease (2% vs 0.9%) exhibited greater percentage in COVID-19. Cerebrovascular disease (OR = 3.70, 95%CI 2.51–5.45) was found to be the strongest risk factor in disease exacerbation, followed by CKD (OR = 3.60, 95%CI 2.18–5.94), COPD (OR = 3.14, 95% CI 2.35–4.19), cardiovascular disease (OR = 2.76, 95% CI 2.18–3.49), malignancy (OR = 2.63, 95% CI 1.75–3.95), diabetes (OR = 2.49, 95% CI 2.10–2.96) and hypertension (OR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.81–2.51). We found no correlation between CLD and increased disease severity (OR = 1.32, 95% CI 0.96–1.82).

Conclusion

The impact of all eight underlying diseases on COVID-19 deterioration seemed to be higher in patients outside Hubei. Based on different comorbidities, COVID-19 patients tend to be at risk of developing poor outcomes to a varying degree. Thus, tailored infection prevention and monitoring and treatment strategies targeting these high-risk subgroups might improve prognosis during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Anemia among Chinese patients with chronic kidney disease and its association with quality of life - results from the Chinese cohort study of chronic kidney disease (C-STRIDE)
Authors:   the Chinese Cohort Study of Chronic Kidney Disease (C-STRIDE), Shen Yan , Wang Jinwei , Yuan Jing , Yang Li , Yu Fangfang , Wang Xiaolei , Zhao Ming-Hui , Zhang Luxia , Zha Yan
Published: February 2021

Background

Anemia is one of the common complications in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there is no systematic investigation on the prevalence of anemia in CKD patients and its relationship with the quality of life in China.

Methods

The data for this study comes from baseline data from the Chinese Chronic Kidney Disease Cohort Study (C-STRIDE), which recruited predialysis CKD patients in China. The kidney disease quality of life summary (KDQOL-TM) was used to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Use linear regression model to estimate the relationship between hemoglobin level and quality of life.

Results

A total of 2921 patients were included in this study. The adjusted prevalence of hemoglobin (Hb) less than 100 g/L was 10.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.9,11.4%), and showed an increased trend through reduced eGFR levels from 4.0% (95%CI:2.3,5.9%) in the 45-60 ml/min/1.73m2group to 23.4% (95%CI:20.5,26.2%) in the 15–29 ml/min/1.73m2group. The prevalence of anti-anemia treatment was 34.0% (95%CI: 28.7,39.3%) and it is shown by reducing eGFR levels from 15.8% (95%CI:0,36.7%) in the 45-60 ml/min/1.73m2group to 38.2% (95%CI: 30.7,45.2%) in the 15–29 ml/min/1.73m2group. All five dimensions of the KDQOL scores in patients with CKD decreased as hemoglobin declined. After multivariable adjustments,the degrees of decrease became somewhat blunted. For example, compared with hemoglobin of ≥130 g/L, regression coefficients in the hemoglobin of < 100 g/L were − 0.047(95%CI: − 0.049,-0.045) for Symptoms and Problems(S), − 0.047(95%CI: − 0.049,-0.044) for Effects of the Kidney Disease(E), − 0.207(95%CI: − 0.212,-0.203) for Burden of the Kidney Disease(B), − 0.112(95%CI: − 0.115,-0.109) for SF-12 Physical Functioning (PCS), − 0.295(95%CI: − 0.299, -0.292) for SF-12 Mental Functioning (MCS), respectively.

Conclusions

In our cross-sectional analysis of patients with CKD in China, prevalence of both anemia and anti-anemia treatment increased with decreased eGFR. In addition, anemia was associated with reduced HRQoL.
Symptoms of anxiety disorders in Iranian adolescents with hearing loss during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ariapooran Saeed , Khezeli Mehdi
Published: February 2021

Background

Anxiety symptoms have been reported in many populations during the COVID-19 pandemic, but not in adolescents with a hearing loss. This study aimed to investigate the presence of symptoms of anxiety disorders (ADs) in adolescents with hearing loss (HL) during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020.

Methods

In this cross sectional study, 56 adolescents with HL (aged 12 to 18 years) including 23 deaf, and 33 hard of hearing (HH) were selected from four counties located in western Iran using a census method. Adolescents with HL filled out the self-report of the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED).

Results

The results showed that the presence of symptoms of ADs in adolescents with HL was 37.5%, and higher in deaf than in HH adolescents (60.9% in deaf vs. 21.2% in HH, p = 0.003). Among the subscales, only the Social Anxiety Disorder (39.1% in deaf vs. 9.1% in HH, p = 0.009) and the School Avoidance (52.2% in deaf vs. 24.2% in HH, p = 0.031) significantly differed. The mean score of Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders in the deaf adolescents were higher than in HH ones.

Conclusions

Our study showed the presence of significant symptoms of ADs in a sample of Iranian adolescents with HL, especially in deaf adolescents, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cluster analysis-based clinical phenotypes of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias: associations with acute exacerbation and overall survival
Authors: Aoshima Yoichiro , Karayama Masato , Horiike Yasuoki , Mori Kazutaka , Yasui Hideki , Hozumi Hironao , Suzuki Yuzo , Furuhashi Kazuki , Fujisawa Tomoyuki , Enomoto Noriyuki , Nakamura Yutaro , Inui Naoki , Suda Takafumi
Published: February 2021

Background

The precise classification of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) is essential for selecting treatment as well as estimating clinical outcomes; however, this is sometimes difficult in clinical practice. Therefore, cluster analysis was used to identify the clinical phenotypes of IIPs, and its usefulness for predicting clinical outcomes was evaluated.

Methods

Cluster analysis was performed using clinical features including patients’ demographics; histories; pulmonary function test data; and laboratory, physical and radiological findings.

Results

In 337 patients with IIPs, four clusters were identified: Cluster I, in which > 80% of the patients had autoimmune features; Cluster II, which had the lowest rate of smoking, the lowest percent predicted forced vital capacity (%FVC) and the lowest body mass index (BMI); Cluster III, which had the highest rate of smoking, the highest rate of dust exposure, the second lowest %FVC and normal BMI; and Cluster IV, which exhibited maintenance of %FVC and normal BMI. Cluster IV had significantly longer overall survival than Clusters II and III. Clusters I and III had significantly longer overall survival than Cluster II. Clusters II and III had a significantly higher cumulative incidence of acute exacerbation than Cluster IV.

Conclusion

Cluster analysis using clinical features identified four clinical phenotypes of IIPs, which may be useful for predicting the risk of acute exacerbation and overall survival.
Effect of platelet inhibition with perioperative aspirin on survival in patients undergoing curative resection for pancreatic cancer: a propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Pretzsch E. , D’Haese J. G. , Renz B. , Ilmer M. , Schiergens T. , Miksch R. C. , Albertsmeier M. , Guba M. , Angele M. K. , Werner J. , Nieß H.
Published: February 2021

Background

The importance of platelets in the pathogenesis of metastasis formation is increasingly recognized. Although evidence from epidemiologic studies suggests positive effects of aspirin on metastasis formation, there is little clinical data on the perioperative use of this drug in pancreatic cancer patients.

Methods

From all patients who received curative intent surgery for pancreatic cancer between 2014 and 2016 at our institution, we identified 18 patients that took aspirin at time of admission and continued to throughout the inpatient period. Using propensity score matching, we selected a control group of 64 patients without aspirin intake from our database and assessed the effect of aspirin medication on overall, disease-free, and hematogenous metastasis-free survival intervals as endpoints.

Results

Aspirin intake proved to be independently associated with improved mean overall survival (OS) (46.5 vs. 24.6 months, *p = 0.006), median disease-free survival (DFS) (26 vs. 10.5 months, *p = 0.001) and mean hematogenous metastasis-free survival (HMFS) (41.9 vs. 16.3 months, *p = 0.005). Three-year survival rates were 61.1% in patients with aspirin intake vs. 26.3% in patients without aspirin intake. Multivariate cox regression showed significant independent association of aspirin with all three survival endpoints with hazard ratios of 0.36 (95% CI 0.15–0.86) for OS (*p = 0.021), 0.32 (95% CI 0.16–0.63) for DFS (**p = 0.001), and 0.36 (95% CI 0.16–0.77) for HMFS (*p = 0.009).

Conclusions

Patients in our retrospective, propensity-score matched study showed significantly better overall survival when taking aspirin while undergoing curative surgery for pancreatic cancer. This was mainly due to a prolonged metastasis-free interval following surgery.
Effect of Guanxin V in animal model of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Shao Changle , Cheng Songyi , Zhu Yao , Liang Bo , Gu Ning
Published: February 2021

Background

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the most serious and lethal manifestation of coronary heart disease worldwide, presenting extremely high disability and mortality. Our previous studies have shown that Guanxin V (GXV) could significantly improve the cardiac function and the blood flow dynamics, and reduce serum levels of inflammatory factors in AMI rats, thus triggering ventricular remodeling (VR) at post-AMI.

Methods

An in vivo AMI model was established in Syrian hamsters by performing the ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Syrian hamsters were randomly divided into four groups, namely Sham operation group (n = 12), AMI group (n = 12), GXV group (GXV 6 g/Kg/d, n = 12), and Tranilast group (Tra 105 mg/Kg/d, n = 12). Drug intervention was conducted for consecutive 8 weeks. Relative biological indicators were measured in the 4th and 8th week, respectively.

Results

Cardiac functions were improved, and the infarcted size and heart weight index were limited in Syrian hamsters of GXV and Tra groups compared with those in AMI group. Furthermore, GXV was able to decrease the number of mast cells and chymase level in Syrian hamsters with AMI. Administration of GXV remarkably inactivated the renin-angiotension-aldosterone system, and alleviated myocardial fibrosis and cardiomyocyte apoptosis, thus slowing down VR at post-AMI.

Conclusion

GXV slows down the process of VR at post-AMI by reducing chymase level and mast cells number, as well as inactivating the reninangiotension-aldosterone system..