bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dangerous Zoning and Stability Assessment of Slopes at Antaibao Open Pit Coal Mine in China
Authors: TAO Zhigang , LIU keyuan , YANG Xiaojie , LI Jingtao , ZHANG Peng , LI Gengzhao
Published: December 2020

With the depletion of shallow coal resources in China, the depths and scales of mining have increased. For several coal mines, the extraction has changed from open-pit to underground. Due to open-pit and underground mining disturbance, landslide disasters frequently occur at high and steep slopes of open-pit mines. The effective identification of danger zone of slope and accurate determination of corresponding stability is important in the field of geotechnical engineering. Herein, Antaibao open-pit coal mine was employed as the research object. Firstly, as per the composition and structural characteristics of on-site slope rock mass, six typical disaster factors were summarized, while the assignment criteria for discrete and continuous variables were divided according to the landslide body characteristics and spatiotemporal distribution. Thereafter, based on the comprehensive evaluation principle of fuzzy mathematics, high and steep side stability in the multi-factor influence regions was comprehensively evaluated, while the spatial division of the unstable region was determined. Finally, the slope potential slip surface in the unstable zone of the western side was utilized as the calculation model object, and sensitivity analysis of the slope impact factor was conducted using the MSARMA method. Therefore, the earthquake as well as drainage rate (groundwater dynamics) were determined as the sensitivity factors. The numerical simulation of FLAC3D finite difference method was performed to analyze the evolution law of displacement field under natural, seepage, and vibrational conditions of the northwest slope.
The Painful Anterior Apprehension Test – An Indication of Occult Shoulder Instability
Authors: Ng Yau Hong , Law Gin Way , Ng Zhaowen Dennis , Tan Jun Hao , Wong Keng Lin Francis , Kumar V Prem
Published: December 2020

Background To evaluate the clinical relevance of the painful anterior apprehension test in shoulder instability.MethodsWe performed a retrospective study of 155 patients that underwent arthroscopic anterior Bankart repair between 2014–2016. Exclusion criteria were previous ipsilateral shoulder surgery, bony Bankart lesions, glenohumeral osteoarthritis and concomitant surgery involving rotator cuff tears, biceps tendon pathology and SLAP lesions. The study cohort was divided into 3 groups: apprehension test with apprehension only, apprehension test with pain only, and apprehension test with both apprehension and pain. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, radiological imaging, arthroscopy findings and surgical outcomes (Constant, ASES, SF-36 scores) were evaluated.Results115 (74.2%) had apprehension only, 26 (16.8%) had pain only and 14 (9.0%) had pain and apprehension with the apprehension test. Univariate analysis showed significant differences between the groups in patients with traumatic shoulder dislocation (p=0.028), patients presenting with pain (p=0.014) and patients presenting with recurrent dislocations (p=0.046). Patients with a purely painful apprehension test were more likely to have a traumatic shoulder dislocation, more likely to present only with pain, and less likely to present with recurrent shoulder dislocations. Multivariate analysis showed that none of these factors alone were significant as single predictors for shoulder instability. All 3 groups were otherwise similar in patient profile, MRI and arthroscopic assessments, and clinical outcomes of surgery. Excellent clinical outcomes were achieved in all groups with no difference in preoperative and postoperative scores across all groups at all time points.ConclusionsThe painful apprehension test may suggest underlying shoulder instability.
Lay Persons Views on Current and Novel Methods of Fertility Assessment and Supporting Conception: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ng Ka Ying Bonnie , Glowacka Marta , Dennison Laura , Cheong Ying
Published: December 2020

BackgroundThere is an ongoing trend towards delayed childbearing; 1 in 6 couples suffer from subfertility. For couples needing IVF, one factor hindering advances in this area is lack of knowledge on in-vivo uterine conditions. A novel intrauterine sensor is currently under development to measure the intrauterine environment, as an innovative means of fertility assessment. Our study explored women’s views of current and novel methods of fertility assessment. Methods A qualitative study was performed. A purposeful sampling method was used to recruit participants from public spaces within Southampton. Women were eligible if they were of reproductive age, planning a pregnancy, nulliparous and not undergoing clinical investigation/fertility treatment. Semi-structured interviews explored pregnancy planning, understanding and experiences of current/novel methods aiming to assess and improve fertility. Interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached (n=16). Inductive thematic analysis was performed. Results The main factors influencing the decision of when to ‘start trying’ were education, financial stability and relationship status. Pregnancy was seen as a ‘physiological’ event without the need for intervention. Participants lacked knowledge of fertility indicators and had limited knowledge of available products to assess fertility/support conception. Although participants generally perceived a novel intrauterine sensor as acceptable and valuable, the main concerns centred around invasiveness, safety and discomfort.ConclusionsWhen developing a novel medical device, healthcare professionals should be aware of the user’s knowledge and views at each stage. A clear added benefit over conventional methods is needed and addressing invasiveness, safety, and comfort may improve the acceptability of the device.
Production Forecast and Estimation of the Recovery Factor of the Los Humeros Geothermal Field, Mexico.
Authors: Gonzalez-Garcia Hector , Francke Henning , Sass Ingo , Huenges Ernst
Published: December 2020

Production data from the Los Humeros geothermal field in Mexico are used to develop a forecast method for operation of the field in the future. This method supports understanding the limitations of sustainably exploiting a geothermal reservoir. Using such forecasts, fluid extraction could be scheduled in order to fulfill the steam demand of the installed capacity. Moreover, the forecast of the extraction can diminish the commercial risk involved and therefore clear the way for new investments. Herein, we determined the total extracted heat from the Los Humeros geothermal system, with the aim to forecast the next phase of fluid extraction. We took the information from 29 producing wells to analyze their historic geothermal fluid production. From their statistical distribution of data, we estimated the amount of extracted fluids for a future phase. The size of the heat reserve previous to exploitation was calculated from the forecasted and the extracted heat. Thus, the recovery factor of the system was calculated as the ratio of the accumulated production of heat and the initial heat content. The general recovery factor for 60 years of production was calculated as 37…44 %. Due to the heterogeneity of the system, we conducted individual assessments. The forecasted heat extraction for the next thirty years of production, amounts to 580 PJ assuming a constant extraction rate between 6 and 56 ton·[hr]-1. The results of this study potentially complement the existing models of the geothermal exploitation and offers an estimation of the future production of the Los Humeros, which could be a good basis for decision-making and management of the site.
Hypoxia Modulation by Dual-drug Nanoparticles for Enhanced Synergistic Sonodynamic and Starvation Therapy
Authors: Wang Jingxue , Huang Ju , Zhou Weichen , Zhao Jiawen , Qi Peng , Zhang Liang , Wang Zhigang , Li Pan , Li Rui
Published: December 2020

Background: Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is an emerging non-invasive therapeutic technique. SDT-based cancer therapy strategies are presently underway, and it may be perceived as a promising approach to improve the efficiency of anti-cancer treatment. In this work, multifunctional theranostic nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized for synergistic starvation therapy and SDT by loading glucose oxidase (GOx, termed G) and 5,10,15,20-tetrakis (4-chlorophenyl) porphyrin) Cl (T (p-Cl) PPMnCl, termed PMnC) in Poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) NPs (designated as MG@P NPs). Results: On account of the peroxidase-like activity of PMnC, MG@P NPs can catalyze hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in tumor regions to produce oxygen (O2), thus enhancing synergistic therapeutic effects by accelerating the decomposition of glucose and promoting the production of cytotoxic singlet oxygen (1O2) induced by ultrasound (US) irradiation. Furthermore, the NPs can also serve as excellent photoacoustic (PA)/magnetic resonance (MR) imaging contrast agents, effectuating imaging-guided cancer treatment. Conclusion: Multifunctional MG@P NPs can effectuate the synergistic amplification effect of cancer starvation therapy and SDT by hypoxia modulation, and act as contrast agents to enhance MR/PA dual-modal imaging. Consequently, MG@P NPs might be a promising nano-platform for highly efficient cancer theranostics.
Delivery of Melittin Loaded Niosomes for Breast Cancer Treatment: an in-vitro and in-vivo Evaluation of Anti-cancer Effect
Authors: Moghaddam Farnaz Dabbagh , Akbarzadeh Iman , Marzbankia Ehsan , Farid Mahsa , Khaledi Leila , Reihani Amir Hossein , Javidfar Mehrnoosh , Mortazavi Pejman
Published: December 2020

BackgroundMelittin, a peptide component of honey bee venom, is an appealing candidate for cancer therapy. In the current study, Melittin and Melittin loaded niosome had been optimized and assessed the anticancer effect an In-Vitro on 4T1 and SKBR3 breast cell lines and In-Vivo on BALB/C inbred mice. "Thin-layer hydration method" was used for preparing the Niosomes; different niosomal formulations of Melittin were prepared and characterized in terms of morphology, size, Polydispersity index, encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics, and stability. A niosome was formulated and loaded with Melittin as a promising drug carrier system for chemotherapy of the breast cancer cells. Hemolysis, apoptosis, cell cytotoxicity, invasion and migration of selected concentrations of Melittin, and Melittin loaded niosome were evaluated on 4T1 and SKBR3 cells using hemolytic activity assay, flow cytometry, MTT assay, soft agar colony assay, and wound healing assay. Real-time PCR was used to determine the genes expression. 35 BALB/c inbred mice were used; then, the histopathology, P53 immunohistochemical assay and estimate of renal and liver enzyme activity for all groups had been done.Results: This study showed Melittin loaded niosome is an excellent substitute in breast cancer treatment due to enhanced targeting, encapsulation efficiency, PDI, and release rate and shows a high anticancer effect on cell lines. The Melittin loaded niosome affect the genes expression by studied cells were higher than other samples; down-regulates the expression of Bcl2, MMP2, and MMP9 genes while they up-regulate the expression of Bax, Caspase3 and Caspase9 genes. Also enhanced the apoptosis rate and inhibitored cell migration, invasion in both cell lines compared to the Melittin samples. Results of histopathology showed reduce mitosis index, invasion and pleomorphism in Melittin loaded niosome. Renal and hepatic biomarker activity did not show a significant difference in Melittin loaded niosome and Melittin compared to healthy control. In immunohistochemistry, P53 expression did not show a significant change in all groups.Conclusions: Our study successfully declares that Melittin loaded niosome had more anti-cancer effects than free Melittin. This project has demonstrated that Niosomes are suitable vesicle carriers for Melittin, compare to free form.
A Simple and Effective Method for Bleeding Control During Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomies
Authors: Du Xiuyu , Zhai Xiaodong , Liu Zhi , Teng Jinliang , Liu Chunyan
Published: December 2020

Objectives: This study describes an intradermal injection technique for reducing bleeding during a percutaneous dilatation tracheotomy (PDT).Methods: Fifty-two consecutively recruited patients who underwent PDTs were analysed in a prospective study that was conducted between May 2019 and January 2020. This is a prospective study and fifty-two patients who underwent PDT were recruited from May 2019 to January 2020. They were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group. The patients in the observation group accepted the execution of the intradermal injection technique during their local anaesthesia. A comparison was made between the two groups’ intraoperative bleeding, postoperative bleeding, operation time and length of incision.Results: A total of 52 patients were enrolled in this study, 33 males (63.5%) and 19 females. The mean age was 63.0±9.9 years, with the patients’ age ranging from 45 to 80 years. The mean BMI was 29.2±5.1 kg/m2. There was no significant difference in gender, age, BMI index and whether they had an endotracheal tube between the two groups (P > 0.05). The observation group’s intraoperative bleeding was less than that of control group (χ2 = 8.308, P = 0.009). There was no significant difference in operation time between the two groups (t = -0.904, P = 0.372). There was no PDT-related death.Conclusion: The intradermal injection technique can be used to effectively and safely reduce bleeding during PDTs. This technique provides a lower intraoperative bleeding grade without increased the procedure’s duration.
Activity and Function Studies of The Promoter Cis-Acting Elements of The Key Enzymes in Saponins Biosynthesis of DS From Panax Notoginseng
Authors: Zheng Yujie , Shao Rongyu , Xia Pengguo , Liang Zongsuo , Yan Kaijing
Published: December 2020

Background：Panax notoginseng is a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of blood diseases, in which saponins were the main active components. Dammarenediol synthase (DS) is a key enzyme in the saponin synthesis pathway of P. notoginseng.The promoter is an important region to regulate gene expression, and the study of the promoter sequence provides important evidence for revealing the mechanism of gene expression regulation. Methods: However, there was still little research on the promoter function of P. notoginseng. In this study, the 1382 bp promoter upstream of DS from P. notoginseng was cloned and sequenced. The promoter sequence was analyzed by online databases. The plant expression vector fused with the β-glucuronidase gene was constructed, transferred into Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Then tobacco was injected, and its response to exogenous hormones (gibberellin and abscisic acid) was studied by transient expression to verify its unique action elements. Results: The results showed that the tobacco leaves transferred with DS promoter had significantly increased GUS protease activity after spraying GA and ABA, indicating that both DS promoter can specifically and significantly respond to exogenous GA and ABA signal. Conclusions: These findings will help us to better understand the regulatory mechanisms of the upstream region of the DS gene and provide a basis for future research on the interaction of cis-acting elements of promoters with related transcription factors.
Does High Protein Intake Cause Glomerular Injury in Very Preterm Neonates?
Authors: Puspitasari Henny , Trihono Partini , Wahidiyat Pustika
Published: December 2020

Background: Very preterm birth rate was 10.8% of all preterm in Asia. Early aggressive nutritional strategies in very preterm neonates is important for catching up growth; however, preterm kidneys have fewer, immature functional nephrons. Studies have showed that high protein intake induces nephron hypertrophy, proteinuria, and glomerular sclerosis through single nephron glomerular hyperfiltration (SNGHF), which leads to glomerulotubular injury. Aim: to analyse the correlation between protein intake and glomerulotubular injury in very preterm neonates. Method: A prospective cohort study was conducted in neonatal units of two hospitals in Jakarta. Urine samples were taken three times at post-natal ages 0-48 hours (T1), 72 hours (T2), and 21 days (T3) for determining the urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin to creatinine (uNGAL/Cr) ratio. Protein intake were given in accordance with local guideline while considering the clinical condition of participants. Protein levels from formula milk were recorded daily from 14-21 days of age, while breastmilk protein was measured twice by using a human milk analyser. Urinary NGAL (uNGAL) was tested with an ELISA. Glomerulotubular injury was defined as a uNGAL/Cr ratio ≥1 SD (22.74 ng/mg) at post-natal age 21 days. High protein intake was defined as average protein intake ≥ 3 g/kg/day.Results: Fifty-nine very preterm neonates were recruited, of which 39 completed the study. Glomerulotubular injury was found in 9 of 39 participants (23%). The proportion of glomerulotubular injury in very preterm neonates who had received high protein intake vs low protein intake was 5 of 29 vs 4 of 10 participants, respectively. The median of uNGAL/Cr ratio was not significantly different in the high vs low protein intake group (3.54 (range: 0.69-89.16) ng/mg vs (6.88 (range: 0.32-66.64)) ng/mg, respectively. The uNGAL/C ratio was not correlated with protein intake. However, it was inversely correlated with gestational age and birth weight.Conclusions: The proportion of glomerulotubular injury in very preterm neonates given high protein diet was 5 of 29. The uNGAL/Cr ratio was increased at the post-natal age of 72 hours and decreased in 21 days in both high and low protein intake groups. High protein intake was not correlated with glomerulotubular injury.
Costal Cartilages Overgrowth Doesn’t Induce the Deformation of the Chest Wall in Experimental Animals
Authors: David Vlad , Stanciulescu Maria , Horhat Florin , Abhinav Sharma , Kundnani Nilima , Ciornei Bogdan , Popoiu Marius , Boia Eugen
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Many consider overgrowth of the costal cartilages to be the etiological factor for chest wall deformities in children. The aim of this study is to investigate if induced overgrowth of the costal cartilages leads to the deformation of the chest wall in an animal model. Material and Methods: We injected insulin growth factor 1 (IGF1) solution directly under the perichondrium of the last three costal cartilages of rat pups. We used two different concentrations: 50 μg/ml (E50) and 100 μg/ml (E100). The procedure was repeated once per week for five consecutive weeks. Seven days from the last administration of injections, the animals were euthanized. We assessed the shape and measured the diameters of the thoracic cage. The last three costal cartilages were dissected; the samples were prepared and examined in light microscopy. Results: In E100 the sagittal and coronal diameters of the rib cage were larger than E50 and control groups but without any deformation of the chest wall. The microscopic examinations revealed an anabolic pattern in E100.Conclusion: Locally administered IGF1 stimulates, in a dose dependent manner, in-vivo cellular growth and multiplication in the costal cartilages. The induced overgrowth of the costal cartilages however, didn’t result in the deformation of the chest wall.
The Mechanism of Aloe-emodin in the Treatment of Colon Cancer based on Network Pharmacological Analysis
Authors: Jiang Dongxiao , Ding Shufei , Mao Zhujun , You Liyan , ruan yeping
Published: December 2020

Background: Colon cancer is a malignant gastrointestinal tumor with a high incidence, high mortality and high metastasis in the world. Aloe-emodin is a monomer compound derived from hydroxyanthraquinone. It makes a wide range of anti-tumor effects and exists in Rhubarb, Aloe, and other plants. However, the mechanism of aloe-emodin against colon cancer still not clear. Here, we predict the potential targets and mechanisms of aloe-emodin based on network pharmacology analysis. Methods: First, determine the intersection target of aloe-emodin and colon cancer, analyze and construct PPI, Gene Ontology, and KEGG pathway analysis. In addition, we selected apoptosis pathways for experimental verification including cell viability determination, cell proliferation, caspase-3 activity determination, DAPI staining, cell cycle determination and western blot to evaluate the apoptosis effect of aloe-emodin on colon cancer cells.Results: The MTT assay and cell colony experiment showed that AE inhibited cell proliferation (P<0.01). DAPI staining confirmed that AE induced apoptosis. AE activates caspase-3, caspase-9 and Bax and down-regulates the expression of Bcl-2. Furthermore, the expression level of cytochrome C protein increased in a time-dependent manner in the cytoplasm but fell in a time-dependent manner in the mitochondria.Conclusion: These results indicate that aloe-emodin may induce apoptosis of human colon cancer cells through mitochondrial related pathways.
LncRNA HOXA-AS3 Promotes Gastric Cancer Progression by Regulating miR-29a-3p/LTβR and Activating NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Qu Feng , Zhu Bin , Hu Yi-Lin , Mao Qin-Sheng , Feng Ying
Published: December 2020

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is among the most common and deadliest cancers globally. While many long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key regulators of GC pathogenesis, the role of HOXA-AS3 in this oncogenic context remains to be defined. Methods: Levels of HOXA-AS3 expression in GC were quantified, after which the functional role of this lncRNA in vitro and in vivo was assessed via HOXA-AS3 knockdown. The localization of HOXA-AS3 within cells was also confirmed, and predicted microRNA (miRNA) targets of this lncRNA and its ability to modulate downstream NF-κB signaling in GC cells were evaluated.Results: GC cells and tissues exhibited significant HOXA-AS3 upregulation (P<0.05), and the levels of this lncRNA were found to be correlated with tumor size, lymph node status, invasion depth, and Helicobacter pylori infection status. Knocking down HOXA-AS3 disrupted GC cell migration, proliferation, and invasion in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo. At a mechanistic level, we found that HOXA-AS3 was able to sequester miR-29a-3p, thereby regulating the expression of LTβR and modulating NF-κB signaling in GC. Conclusion: HOXA-AS3/miR-29a-3p/LTβR/NF-κB regulatory axis contributes to the progression of GC, thereby offering novel target for the prognosis and treatment of GC.
SPIB Acts as a Tumor Suppressor by Activating NFkB and JNK Signaling Pathways Through MAP4K1 in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhao Xunping , Li Lin , Yuan Shiyun , Zhang Qia , Jiang Xianyao , Luo Tao
Published: December 2020

BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the major cancers in the world. Spi-B Transcription Factor (SPIB) is one member of the E-twenty-six (ETS) transcription factor family. Previous studies have shown that the expression of SPIB is down-regulated in human colorectal cancer tissues. However, its biological function in colorectal cancer cells is not reported. The purpose of our study is to explore the biological function and related mechanism of SPIB in colorectal cancer cells, to provide reference for the molecular detection and targeted drug therapy of colorectal cancer.MethodsThe biological function of SPIB in colorectal cancer cells were studied by colony formation assay, CCK-8 cell proliferation assay, transwell assay, tube formation assay, flow cytometry analysis. Growth inhibition assay was used to measure the impact of SPIB on oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Double luciferase reporter assay and western blot were used to detect mechanism of SPIB in colorectal cancer cells. ResultsSPIB mRNA was down-regulated in CRC cell lines and CRC tissues. SPIB can inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells; can inhibit angiogenesis; and induce the cell cycle of CRC cells arrest in G2/M phase and promote the apoptosis of CRC cells. In the growth inhibition assay we found that compared with the control group, the 50% inhibitory concentration(IC50) values of oxaliplatin and 5-FU in the SPIB overexpression group were significantly reduced. Western blot results showed that the overexpression of SPIB up-regulated cleaved-PARP(c-PARP), nuclear factor kB p65 (NFkB p65), phospho-NFkB p65(p-NFkB P65), JNK1, and C-Jun proteins expression level compared with the control group. Double luciferase report experiment showed that SPIB can activate the promoter of MAP4K1 and enhance the expression of MAP4K1. After silencing MAP4K1, the protein expressions of c-PARP, NFkB P65, p-NFkB P65, JNK1, and C-Jun were down-regulated. ConclusionsIn this study, we found that SPIB is a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer cells, SPIB sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to oxaliplatin and 5-FU. we also found that MAP4K1 is a target gene of SPIB, SPIB exerts its anti-colorectal cancer effect by activating NFkB and JNK signaling pathways through MAP4K1. The above findings may provide reference for new molecular markers and therapeutic targets for CRC.
Chinese Version of the Illness Cognition Questionnaire-Parent ICQ-P(C): Psychometric Properties of Parents of Chinese Children with Cancer
Authors: han jing , Zhang Li , Gao JiZhao , Yang Feng , Zhang Yao , Tang RuiJin
Published: December 2020

Background：Parental cognition of a child’s illness influences the psychological adjustment of the entire family and the child’s quality of life. This cross-sectional study aimed to translate the Illness Cognition Questionnaire-Parent version (ICQ-P) into Chinese and to evaluate its psychometric properties. Methods The translation process was complied with international recommendations. Using a convenient sampling method, 334 parents of cancer children completed the 18-item ICQ-P online. The psychometric properties of the scale were evaluated using Principle Component Analysis (PCA) with Promax with Kaiser Normalization. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to confirm the factor structure using Chi-squared/Degrees of freedom (χ2/df), Goodness-of-Fit Index (GFI), incremental fit index (IFI); Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA). Cronbach’s α was calculated for the final scale version, revealing adequate internal consistency.Results: Using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), we found that the Chinese version of the ICQ-P (ICQ-P[C]) had 18-item, three-factor structure (six items each, factor loadings >0.5) which explained 56.39% of total variance. Based on the structure matrix, three factors were labeled “Helplessness,” “Acceptance,” and “Perceived benefits.” After addressing some errors in covariances, χ2/df =1.890 CFI=0.931, IFI=0.933, GFI=0.884, RMSEA=0.060. The standardized coefficients of factors 1, 2, and 3, ranged from 0.50 to 0.84, (p<0.001). The final scale showed moderate-to-high reliability scores (Factor 1 α=0.819; Factor 2 α=0.835; Factor 3 α=0.802; Overall α=0.868).Conclusions: The ICQ-P is a reliable tool to measure parental cognition of a child’s illness, especially cancer. It may help medical staff to identify parents with difficulty understanding these illnesses.
Difficult Tracheal Intubation is More Common among Hazara Tribe and Females in Afghanistan
Authors: Oria Mohammad Sharif , Asady Abdullah , Halimi Sultan Ahmad , Negin Fahima , Shah Jaffer , Mousavi Sayed Hamid
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Airway management is a considerable challenge for anesthesiologists. The diagnostic value of the screening tests differs in various studies. This is due to the variety in the incidence of intubation, insufficient statistical power, and different test inception. To have a safe intubation, it is essential to perform a precise preoperative airway assessment. However, there is still an argument about which tests and anatomical landmarks would be the best predictors.Objective: This study is aimed to determine the best predictors and socio-demographic characteristics of difficult intubation among adult patients scheduled for elective surgeries under general anesthesia in Aliabad Teaching Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan. Method: A total of 341 patients were selected based on consecutive sampling method. Informed consent forms were obtained before inclusion in the study. Data were collected using a data collection form. Age, gender, ASA physical status and tribe were recorded for each participant. Airway assessment test was conducted before operation for additional consideration. Data were initially entered into an excel data sheet, and then exported to SPSS Statistics version 22 for analysis. Results: From a total of 341 patients, 193 (56.6%) were males and 148 (43.4%) were females. The mean age of the subjects was 36.98 ± 15.048 years. More than half (54.5%) of the study population were Tajiks. Hazara tribe, female patients, increasing age and systemic disease patients had more difficult intubation. We recognized that, Mallampati classes, mouth opening, thyromental distance, ability to prognath and neck mobility and size were associated with difficult intubation. Multiple logistic regression analysis of the associated factors determined that increase age, ability to prognath and mouth opening were independent predictors of difficult intubation. Conclusion: Female patients and Hazara tribe were found to have a significant association with difficult intubation on bivariate analysis. Multiple logistic regression analysis determined that increase age, ability to prognath and mouth opening were independent predictors for difficult intubation.
Duration of Colonisation With Extended-spectrum Beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia Coli: Results of an Open Cohort Study With Dutch Nursing Home Residents (2013 – 2019)
Authors: Weterings Veronica , Goede Tineke de , Hendriks Yvonne , Kilsdonk Linda , Mulders Ans , Wier Bregje van de , Kluytmans Jan
Published: December 2020

Background Escherichia coli sequence type ST131 is a recently emerged worldwide pandemic clonal group. Antibiotic resistance, virulence factors or colonisation fitness are mentioned among other as possible factors contributing to the worldwide success. In this study, we assessed the duration of rectal ESBL- producing E. coli colonisation in the residents, and compare duration of colonisation for ESBL-ST131 versus ESBL-non-ST131.MethodsRectal or faecal samples were obtained from residents of nursing home A between 2013 and 2019 and nursing home B between 2017 and 2019, with repeated point prevalence surveys at intervals of three to six months. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains of E. coli were identified on selective culture and selective enrichment broth, and examined by antimicrobial susceptibility testing. In nursing home A multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and cluster analyse was performed by respectively O25:ST131-specific PCR and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP). In nursing home B whole genome sequencing data were used to determine MLST and to perform a cluster analyse. Kaplan Meier survival analysis was performed to calculate the median time of rectal colonisation of ESBL-EC with a Log-Rank analysis to test for differences between ESBL-ST131 and ESBL-non-ST131.ResultsA total of 144 residents were included: 84 residents (58%) with ESBL-ST131 rectal colonisation and 60 residents (42%) with ESBL-non-ST131 rectal colonisation. Survival analysis showed a median colonisation length of 13 months for ESBL-ST131 (95%CI: 7,2 – 18,7) versus 8,3 months (95%CI: 2,8 – 13,8) for ESBL-non-ST131 (p = 0,028). Remarkably, in the subgroup ST131 the median colonisation length was significantly longer in female than in males: 25,7 months versus 8,1 months (p = 0,013).ConclusionHere we found a prolonged colonisation duration of ESBL-ST131 compared to ESBL-non-ST131 in residents of Dutch nursing homes. Prolonged colonisation duration complicates the controlling and ending an ESBL-ST131 outbreak, especially in long stay settings such as nursing homes.
WITHDRAWN: Identification of a Novel MICU1 Nonsense Variant Causes Myopathy with Extrapyramidal Signs in an Iranian Consanguineous Family
Authors: Bitarafan Fatemeh , Khodaeian Mehrnoosh , Sardehaei Elham Amjadi , Darvishi Fatemeh Zahra , Almadani Navid , Nilipour Yalda , Garshasbi Masoud
Published: December 2020

Background: Ca2+ as a universal second messenger regulates basic biological functions including cell cycle, cell proliferation, cell differentiation and cell death. Lack of the protein mitochondrial calcium uptake1 (MICU1) which has been regarded as a gatekeeper of Ca ions, leads to the abnormal mitochondrial Ca2+ handling, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and increased cell death. Mutations in MICU1 gene (NM_006077.3) causes a very rare neuromuscular disease, Myopathy with extrapyramidal signs (MPXPS), due to primary alterations in mitochondrial calcium signaling which demonstrates the key role of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. To date 6 variants have been reported in MICU1 gene in approximately 21 pedigrees.Case presentation: here we report a 44-year-old Iranian patient presented with learning disability, muscle weakness, easy fatigability, reduced tendon reflexes, ataxia, elevated hepatic transaminase, elevated serum creatine phosphokinase and gait disturbance. We Identified a novel nonsense variant c.385C>T; p.(R129*) in MICU1 gene by whole exome sequencing and segregation analysis.Conclusions: Our finding along with previous studies provides more evidence on the clinical presentation of the disease caused by pathogenic mutations in MICU1. Finding more variants and expanding the spectrum of the disease increases the diagnostic rate of molecular testing in screening of this kind of diseases and in turn improves the quality of counseling for at risk couples and helps them to minimize the risks of having affected children.
In Situ-formed Fibrin Hydrogel Scaffold Loaded With Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promotes Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Hu Lvzhong , Zhou Jinhua , He Zhisong , Zhang Lin , Du Fangzhou , Nie Mengting , Zhou Yao , Hao Hang , Zhang Lixing , Yu Shuang , Zhang Jinzhong , Chen Youguo
Published: December 2020

Background: Full-thickness skin wound healing remains a major challenge. Recently, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have exerted their brilliant potential to promote skin repair in clinical applications. However, low survival rate of hUC-MSCs after transplantation limits their therapeutic efficiency in treating full-thickness skin wound. The fibrin hydrogel is considered an ideal cell transplantation vectors owing to its three-dimensional mesh structure and low cytotoxicity. The objective of this study was to investigate the skin wound healing effect of fibrin hydrogel scaffold loaded with hUC-MSCs.Methods: The cytotoxicity of the fibrin hydrogel was determined via cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. A total of 36 mice aged 8 weeks were randomly divided into four groups: control group (n = 9); hydrogel-alone group (n = 9); hUC-MSC-alone group (n = 9); and hydrogel-hUC-MSC combination group (n = 9). PBS, fibrin hydrogel, hUC-MSCs or fibrin hydrogel loaded with hUC-MSCs were injected into wounds, respectively. The wound of each mice was recorded with a digital camera to calculate the wound healing rate. On days 3, 7 and 14, serial sections of the wound and surrounding tissues were prepared. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescent staining for green fluorescent protein, keratin 10, and keratin 14 were performed. Meanwhile, the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were detected using RT-PCR. Results: We found that the fibrin hydrogel owned three-dimensional mesh structure and low cytotoxicity, and could prolong the cell survival time around the wound. The combination therapy of hydrogel and hUC-MSCs sped up wound closure. The combination therapy of hydrogel and hUC-MSCs upregulated the relative gene expressions of EGF, TGF-β1, VEGF, and VEGFA, which promoting epithelial regeneration and angiogenesis.Conclusions: The fibrin hydrogel scaffold provides a relatively stable sterile environment for cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration and prolongs cell survival at the wound site. The hydrogel-hUC-MSC combination therapy can promote wound closure, re-epithelialization, and neovascularization. It exhibits a remarkable therapeutic effect than hUC-MSCs or the hydrogel alone.
The Co-Culture of ASCs and EPCs Promotes Wound Healing by Promoting Angiogenesis in Full Thickness Skin Defects
Authors: Lin Shuang , He Xiaoning , He Yuanjia
Published: December 2020

Background The repair of large-scale full-thickness skin defects represents a challenging obstacle in skin tissue engineering. To address the most important problem in skin defect repair, namely insufficient blood supply, this study aimed to find a method that could promote the formation of vascularized skin tissue. Method The phenotypes of ASCs and EPCs were identified respectively, and ASCs/EPCs were co-cultured in vitro to detect the expression of dermal and angiogenic genes. Furthermore, the co-culture system combined with dermal extracellular matrix hydrogel was used to repair the full-scale skin defects in rats.Result The co-culture of ASCs/EPCs could increase skin and angiogenesis-related gene expression in vitro. The results of in vivo animal experiments demonstrated that the ASCs/EPCs group could significantly accelerate the repair of skin defects by promoting the regeneration of vascularized skin.Conclusion It is feasible to replace traditional single seed cells with ASC/EPC co-culture system for vascularized skin regeneration. This system could ultimately enable clinicians to better repair the full-thickness skin defects and avoid donor site morbidity.
Thrombin-activated platelet rich plasma (PRP) enhanced osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by activing autophagy through miR-140-3p/SPRED2 axis
Authors: Jiang Shuting , Liu Hongyan , Zhu Weiyan , Yan Hui , Yan Beizhan
Published: December 2020

Background Mesenchymal stem cells transplantation gradually become a potential treatment for bone defect in clinic practice. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism of PRP and autophagy for osteogenic differentiation in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Methods Thrombin activated PRP was prepared and the BMSCs were treated with activated PRP with different concentration and transfected with miR-140-3p vector (mimics or inhibitor), si-SPRED2 or co-transfected with miR-140-3p inhibitor and si-SPRED2, respectively. qRT-PCR and Western blotting were used to determine the mRNA expression and protein expression. A luciferase reporter assay was conducted to identified the targeting relationship between iR-140-3p and SPRED2 Subsequently, cell proliferation was detected by MTT and ALP activity was also determined. Alizarin red staining was used for the evaluating the formation of calcium nodules. Results MiR-140-3p expression was found to be inhibited by PRP in a dose-dependent manner, besides, cell proliferation, ALP activity, the expression of COL-I, OPN, Runx2 and OCN, and the formation of calcium nodules related to osteogenic differentiation were enhanced by PRP. Subsequently, we found that PRP activated autophagy and up-regulated SPRED2 expression in BMSCs through suppressing miR-140-3p expression. Moreover, we confirmed that miR-140-3p targeted SPRED2 and negatively regulation its expression. Finally, the findings showed that inhibition of miR-140-3p enhanced cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and autophagy of BMSCs by negatively regulating SPRED2 expression. Conclusion Thrombin activated PRP accelerated osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by activing autophagy through miR-140-3p/SPRED2 axis.
CD157 mediates mitochondrial production and transfer from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to improve neuronal apoptosis and functional recovery after spinal cord injury
Authors: Li Jing , Li Heyangzi , Cai Simin , Bai Shi , Cai Huabo , Zhang Xiaoming
Published: December 2020

Background: Recent studies demonstrated that autologous mitochondria derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) might be valuable in the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the mechanisms of mitochondrial transfer from BMSCs to injured neurons are not fully understood. Methods: We modified BMSCs by CD-157, a cell surface molecule as a potential regulator mitochondria transfer, then transplanted to SCI rats and co-cultured with OGD injured VSC4.1 motor neuron. We detected extracellular mitochondrial particles derived from BMSCs by transmission electron microscope and measured the CD157/cyclic ADP-ribose signaling pathway related protein expression by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting assay. The CD157 ADPR-cyclase activity and Fluo-4 AM was used to detect the Ca2+ signal. All data were expressed as mean ± SEM. Statistical analysis was analyzed by GraphPad Prism 6 software. Unpaired t-test was used for the analysis of two groups. Multiple comparisons were evaluated by one-way ANOVA or two-way ANOVA.Results: CD157 on BMSCs was upregulated when co-cultured with injured VSC4.1 motor neurons. Upregulation of CD157 on BMSCs could raise the transfer extracellular mitochondria particles to VSC4.1 motor neurons, gradually regenerate the axon of VSC4.1 motor neuron and reduce the cell apoptosis. Transplantation of CD157 modified BMSCs at the injured sites could significantly improve the functional recovery, axon regeneration and neuron apoptosis in SCI rats. The level of Ca2+ in CD157 modified BMSCs dramatically increased and when objected to high concentration cADPR, ATP content and MMP of BMSCs also increased.Conclusion: This study evidences that CD157 can regulate the produce and transfer of BMSCs-derived extracellular mitochondrial particles, enriching the mechanism of the extracellular mitochondrial transfer in BMSCs transplantation and providing a novel strategy to improve the stem cell treatment on SCI.
Niche Partitioning in the Rimicaris Exoculata Holobiont: The Case of the First Symbiotic Zetaproteobacteria
Authors: Cambon-Bonavita Marie-Anne , Aubé Johanne , Cueff-Gauchard Valérie , Reveillaud Julie
Published: December 2020

Background Mutualistic symbioses between invertebrate animals and chemosynthetic bacteria are the basis of life in hydrothermal vent ecosystems. The shrimp Rimicaris exoculata , which dominates animal communities along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, houses a complex bacterial community in its enlarged cephalothorax, including the dominant Campylobacteria , Desulfobulbia (formerly Deltaproteobacteria ), Alpha proteobacteria , Gammaproteobacteria and some recently discovered iron oxyhydroxide-coated Zetaproteobacteria . This epibiotic consortium uses iron, sulfide, methane, and hydrogen as energy sources. Here, we generated shotgun metagenomes from Rimicaris exoculata cephalothoracic epibiotic communities to reconstruct and investigate symbiotic genomes. We collected specimens in three geochemically contrasted vent fields, TAG, Rainbow, and Snake Pit, to unravel the specificity, variability, and adaptation of Rimicaris –microbe associations. Results Our data enabled us to reconstruct 49 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from the TAG and Rainbow vent fields, including 16 with more than 90% completion and less than 5% contamination based on single copy core genes. These MAGs belonged to the dominant Campylobacteria , Desulfobulbia , Thiotrichaceae as well as some novel candidate phyla radiation (CPR) lineages. In addition, most importantly, two MAGs in our collection were affiliated to Zetaproteobacteria and had no close relatives (average nucleotide identity ANI < 77% with the closest relative Ghiorsea bivora isolated from TAG, and 88% with each other), suggesting potential novel species. Genes for Calvin-Benson Bassham (CBB) carbon fixation, iron, and sulfur oxidation, as well as nitrate reduction, occurred in both MAGs. However, genes for hydrogen oxidation and multicopper oxidases occurred in one MAG only, suggesting shared and specific potential functions for these two novel Zetaproteobacteria symbiotic lineages. Overall, we observed highly similar symbionts co-existing in a single shrimp at both the basaltic TAG and ultramafic Rainbow vent sites. Nevertheless, further examination of the seeming functional redundancy among these epibionts revealed important differences. Conclusion These data highlight microniche partitioning in the Rimicaris holobiont and support recent studies showing that functional diversity enables multiple symbiont strains to coexist in animals colonizing hydrothermal vents.
Clearance of Circulating Bacteria and Recovery of Microbiota Diversity Following Adoptive Cellular Therapy in Advanced Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Yang Duo , Wang Xiaoli , Zhou Xinna , Wang Shuo , Zhao Jing , Yang Huabing , Morse Michael A. , Wu Jiangping , Yuan Yanhua , Li Sha , Hobeika Amy , Ren Jun , Lyerly Herbert Kim
Published: December 2020

Objective: There is increasing evidence of a human blood-microbiome that may have an immune modulatory effect. Anticancer therapies including adoptive cellular therapy (ACT) may influence this blood microbiome. The purpose of this study was to investigate impacts of biological ACT infusions on the blood microbiota. Materials and Methods: Plasma was collected from colorectal cancer patients (CRC) treated with either chemotherapy alone (oxaliplatin and capecitabine) (XELOX alone group, CT, n=19), or a mixed dendritic cell/cytokine induced killer cell product (DC-CIK) + XELOX (group, ICT, n=20). Circulating microbiota analysis was performed by amplifying and sequencing variable regions V3~V4 of bacterial 16S rRNA genes. The association of microbiota with clinical immunotherapeutic response was evaluated. Results: The plasma bacterial DNA copy number decreased and diversity of plasma microbiota significantly increased after administration of the DC-CIK product. The plasma bacterial DNA copy number correlated with the CD3-/CD16+/CD56+ NK cells in circulation. The diversity index was associated with CD3-/CD16+/CD56+ and CD8+/CD28+ cells infused. A more diverse blood microbiome including bifidobacterium, lactobacillus and enterococcus was identified among responders to immunotherapy compared with non-responders.Conclusions: Cellular immunotherapy can affect the plasma microbiota’s diversity in a manner favorable to clinical responses. Sustainable bacteria diversity was associated with benefit from immune therapy in CRC patients.