bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of prevention of delayed gastric emptying on long-term prognosis and nutritional status after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Iwanaga Naoki , Ito Yuzuru , Miyano Shozo , Machida Michio , Watanobe Ikuo , Sugo Hiroyuki
Published: March 2022

Background
Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) remains an unsolved complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a modified reconstruction technique -anchored straight stomach reconstruction (ASSR) - in reducing the incidence of DGE, and its impact on survival after PD.
Methods
A retrospective analysis of 121 consecutive PD patients was conducted: 100 of them had undergone ASSR and the remaining 21 had undergone conventional modified Child method of reconstruction. The two groups were then compared with regard to the incidence of DGE and long-term outcome including postoperative nutritional status.
Results
The incidence of significant DGE in the ASSR group (5%) was significantly lower than that in the conventional group (29%) (p < 0.001). The 5- and 10-year overall survival rates were significantly better in the ASSR group (60% and 49%, respectively) than in the conventional group (45% and 9%, respectively) (p = 0.024). Multivariate analyses showed that the type of reconstruction (ASSR or conventional) was a significant independent post-PD prognostic factor (p = 0.001). Comparison of nutritional status showed that ASSR facilitated a prompt recovery of body weight (BW) and serum albumin level at 6 months after PD. At 12 months after PD, BW gain was significantly better in the ASSR group than in the conventional group (p = 0.032).
Conclusion
Anchored straight stomach reconstruction is able to reduce the incidence of DGE in patients undergoing PD. The prevention of DGE by ASSR might improve their nutritional status, possibly resulting in a better survival rate after PD.
Safety And Preliminary Efficacy Of Sequential Multiple Ascending Doses Of Solnatide To Treat Pulmonary Permeability Edema In Patients With Moderate To Severe ARDS In A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Trial: Preliminary Evaluation Of Safety And Feasibility In Light Of The COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Schmid Benedikt , Kranke Peter , Lucas Rudolf , Meybohm Patrick , Zwissler Bernhard , Frank Sandra
Published: March 2022

Background: In May 2018 the first patient was enrolled in the phase-IIb clinical trial “Safety and Preliminary Efficacy of Sequential Multiple Ascending Doses of Solnatide to Treat Pulmonary Permeability Edema in Patients with Moderate to Severe ARDS” With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, the continuation and successful execution of this clinical study was in danger. Therefore, before the Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) allowed proceeding with the study and enrollment of further COVID-19 ARDS patients into it, additional assessment on possible study bias was considered mandatory. Methods: We conducted an ad hoc interim analysis of 16 patients (5 COVID-19- ARDS patients and 11 with ARDS from different causes) from the phase-IIB clinical trial. We assessed possible differences in clinical characteristics of the ARDS patients and the impact of the pandemic on study execution. Results: COVID-19 patients seemed to be less sick at baseline, which also showed in higher survival rates over the 28-day observation period. Trial specific outcomes regarding pulmonary edema and ventilation parameters did not differ between the groups, nor did more general indicators of (pulmonary) sepsis like oxygenation ratio and required noradrenaline doses. Conclusion: The DSMB and the investigators did not find any evidence that patients suffering from ARDS due to SARS-CoV-2 may be at higher (or generally altered) risk when included in the trial, nor were there indications that those patients might influence the integrity of the study data altogether. For this reason, a continuation of the phase IIB clinical study activities can be justified. Researchers continuing clinical trials during the pandemic should always be aware that the exceptional circumstances may alter study results and therefore adaptations of the study design might be necessary.
High throughput 3D gel-based neural organotypic model for cellular assays with fluorescence biosensors
Authors: Kundu Srikanya , Boutin Molly , Strong Caroline , Voss Ty , Ferrer Marc
Published: March 2022

Three-dimensional (3D) organotypic models that capture native-like physiological features of tissues are being pursued as clinically predictive assays for therapeutics development. A range of 3D neural organotypic models are being developed to mimic brain morphology, physiology, and pathology of neurological disease. Biofabrication of 3D gel-based cellular systems is emerging as a versatile technology to produce spatially and cell-type tailored, physiologically complex and native-like tissue models. Here we produce 3D fibrin gel-based functional neural co-culture models with human iPSC differentiated dopaminergic or glutamatergic neurons and astrocytes. We further introduce genetically encoded fluorescence biosensors for real time functional measurements of intracellular calcium and levels of dopamine and glutamate neurotransmitters, in a high throughput compatible plate format. We use optogenetic activation and pharmacological perturbations to demonstrate that functional responses in 3D fibrin gel neural models are as relevant to be expected from in vivo data, compared to the equivalent 2D neural models.
A novel matrine derivative, WM130, inhibits activation and movement of human hepatic stellate LX-2 cells by targeting cofilin 1
Authors: Xu Yang , Duan Jicheng , Ji Weidan , Liu Chao , Li Xiang , Wu Qiuye , Gao Chunfang , Su Changqing
Published: March 2022

Matrine, one of the active ingredients of Sophora flavescens Ait., has a protective effect in animal models on acute liver injury and liver fibrosis. However, since the protective effects are short-lived, a structural modification of matrine is needed to improve its anti-fibrotic effects. In this study, we obtained a novel matrine derivative, WM130, and explored its anti-fibrotic effects on the human hepatic stellate cell line, LX-2. CCK-8, wound healing, and transwell assays were used to investigate cell proliferation and migration, while 3D mimic study was used to determine the target of WM130. Western blots investigated the levels of α-SMA, cofilin 1, p-cofilin 1, F-actin, PI3K, p-Akt, Akt, and PTEN in LX-2 cells treated with MW130. The results revealed that WM130 can significantly inhibit the proliferation of LX-2 cells at an IC50 of 60 µg/ml. At 30 µg/ml, matrine or WM130 significantly inhibited the migration of LX-2 cells. Moreover, WM130 significantly reduced the expression of α-SMA, cofilin 1, F-actin, PI3K, and p-Akt, and increased PTEN levels. In conclusion, WM130 inhibits the proliferation, activation, and migration of human hepatic stellate LX-2 cells by targeting cofilin 1.
WITHDRAWN: Modulation of CUMS Induced Behaviour Deficits in Rats by Alpha Lipoic Acid: Possible Involvement of Dopaminergic and Serotonergic Neurotransmission
Authors: Akotkar Likhit , Aswar Urmila , Patil Rashmi , Kumar Dileep , Aswar Manoj , Pandey Jyoti
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Stress is an important factor having a high impact on psychological development which alters emotion, cognition and related behavioural outputs. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent neuroprotectant and antioxidant; however, it has not been studied in clinically relevant, chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) induced behaviour deficits model in rats as well as its mechanism of action is unclear. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine its antidepressant activity in CUMS induced depression-like behaviour and to understand its mechanism of action using brain monoamine estimations and molecular docking study.Methods: The Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups. Group I vehicle control (without stress), Group II- CUMS, Group III- fluoxetine (FLX) (50 mg/kg), Group IV, V, and VI were treated with ALA (50, 100, 200 mg/kg, p.o.) respectively. All the groups, except I, were subjected to CUMS along with the treatments which were given orally from day 1 to day 42. The behavioural parameters like sucrose preference test (SPT), Morris water maze (MWM), resident intruder test (RIT), marble-burying test (MBT) were performed on day 0, day 21, and day 42 and forced swim test (FST) on day 42 only. Animals were sacrificed at the end of the study; the brain homogenate was prepared and used for the antioxidant, histopathology and monoamine estimations.Results: When compared with CUMS group, ALA (50, 100, 200) treatment displays improved behavioural parameters, increased GSH, SOD, catalase and reduced MDA, NO. Concentrations of monoamines (5-HT, DA, NE) were also found to be restored in brain homogenate. Histopathological results indicated the protection of CA3 neurons in the hippocampus. Computational molecular docking revealed strong binding of ALA on the 5HT3 receptor. Conclusion: Consequently, the study demonstrates that ALA might be exhibiting antidepressant effects in part by restoring monoamines as well as may be modulating the 5HT3 receptor.
Workload And Workflow Implications Associated With The Use Of Electronic Clinical Decision Support Tools Used By Health Professionals In General Practice: A Scoping Review
Authors: Fletcher Emily , Burns Alex , Wiering Bianca , Lavu Deepthi , Shephard Elizabeth , Hamilton Willie , Campbell John L , Abel Gary
Published: March 2022

Background: Electronic clinical decision support tools (eCDS) are increasingly available to assist General Practitioners (GP) with the diagnosis and management of a range of health conditions. It is unclear whether the use of eCDS tools has an impact on GP workload. This scoping review aimed to identify the available evidence on the use of eCDS tools by health professionals in general practice in relation to their impact on workload and workflow.Methods: A scoping review was carried out using the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework. The search strategy was developed iteratively, with three main aspects: general practice/primary care contexts, risk assessment/decision support tools, and workload-related factors. Three databases were searched in 2019, and updated in 2021, covering articles published since 2009: Medline (Ovid), HMIC (Ovid) and Web of Science (TR). Double screening was completed by two reviewers, and data extracted from included articles were analysed.Results: The search resulted in 5,594 references, leading to 91 full articles after screening. Of these, 33 studies were based in the USA, 20 in the UK and 11 in Australia. A further 22 originated from Canada or Europe, with the remaining studies conducted in New Zealand, South Africa and Malaysia. Studies examined the use of eCDS tools and reported some findings related to their impact on workload, including on consultation duration. Most studies were qualitative and exploratory in nature, reporting health professionals’ subjective perceptions of consultation duration as opposed to objectively-measured time spent using tools or consultation durations. Other workload-related findings included impacts on cognitive workload, “workflow” and dialogue with patients, and clinicians’ experience of “alert fatigue”.Conclusions: The published literature on the impact of eCDS tools in general practice showed that limited efforts have focused on investigating the impact of such tools on workload and workflow. To gain an understanding of this area, further research, including quantitative measurement of consultation durations, would be useful to inform the future design and implementation of eCDS tools.
Urban and Rural Environmental Management Strategy Based on the Cause of Bird Death Investigation: The Context of Wumeng Mountainous Area
Authors: zhu xiongbin , Bo Dong , Chen Xiaoqiao
Published: March 2022

With the continuous deterioration of the ecological environment in the Wumeng mountain area, the number of birds has gradually decreased in recent years. To find out the cause of bird death, the author team up with many bird lovers and zoologists to collect bird corpses in the Wumeng Mountain area with large topographic changes and rich geomorphic types from 2018 to 2020 in this area. With anatomical analysis and pathogen detection, the main findings include: (1) The number of bird deaths has not increased due to the extreme high temperature in 2020 in Wumeng mountainous area. (2) The main causes of bird deaths are pesticide, rodenticide and birds-building collision. (3)Most birds died in summer and winter, which are mainly poisoned by insecticide in summer and killed by glass impact and Rodenticide in winter. (4)The dead birds are mainly local dominant species(sparrows, white babblers, great tits and Northern Redstart). From the findings, we can infer that the main cause of bird death has little to do with weather changes and avian influenza virus in Wumeng Mountain area, but closely related to human agricultural production and construction activities. Accordingly, we put forward some suggestions and Strategies of urban and rural spatial environment management, hoping to provide reference for urban and rural ecological construction and bird protection in Wumeng Mountain area.
CoVID-19 Pandemic consequences on emergency surgery: an observational case-control study from an Italian tertiary referral hospital
Authors: Pirozzolo Giovanni , Bao Quoc Riccardo , Baiano Livio , D’Alimonte Lucrezia , Vignotto Chiara , Piangerelli Alfredo , Peluso Claudia , Cimino Fabrizio Giuseppe Maria , Meneghetti Guido , Grassetto Alberto , Rizzo Maurizio , Scarpa Marco , Recordare Alfonso Giovanni
Published: March 2022

Background In 2020, on March the 9th, the Italian Prime Minister announced the lockdown, which was officially closed on May the 4th. This extraordinary measure was necessary to contain the CoVID-19 pandemic spread in Italy. During this phase, a significant decrease of patient’s access to Emergency Department (ED) was observed. Delayed access to treatment may have led to a delay in the diagnosis of acute conditions also in the surgical field, as already documented in other areas, with consequences on surgical outcome and survival.Aim of this study is to provide a detailed description of abdominal urgent-emergent conditions surgically treated and surgical outcomes during the lockdown in a tertiary referral Italian hospital, compared with historical data.MethodsA retrospective review of urgent-emergent patients surgically treated in our department was conducted in order to compare patients’ characteristics and surgical outcomes during the period March 9th - May 4th 2020 with the same period of the previous year. Results152 patients were included in our study, 79 patients in 2020 group and 77 patients in 2019. We found no significant differences between the groups about ASA score, age, gender and disease prevalence. Significant differences were found about symptoms duration before ER access and abdominal pain as main symptom in non-traumatic conditions. We also performed a sub-analysis on peritonitis which showed significant differences in: hospital length of stay, presence of colostomy vs ileostomy and fatal events in 2020. No differences were found in the use of laparoscopy. ConclusionsWhile the overall number of ER accesses has decreased in 2020 group, the number of patients surgically treated in emergency-urgency conditions has not decreased. However, those patients waited significantly more before the hospital access. This diagnostic delay was associated to a more severe clinical condition and a consequent significantly worse prognosis.
An Enhanced Beetle Antennae Search Algorithm Based Comprehensive Water Quality Index for Urban River Water Quality Assessment
Authors: Gao Zehai , Liu Yang , Li Nan , Ma Kangjie
Published: March 2022

Urban river not only has the important function in urban hydrological environment, but also is an area for entertainment. Water quality assessment is the core technique in water resource management. As the typical urban river, water samples were collected at 5 sampling points in Xi’an moat from January 2018 to December 2020, and 10 physicochemical parameters were analyzed. In this paper, a comprehensive water quality index (WQI) is designed based on the criterion of water quality classes and entropy weight method firstly. Secondly, the crucial water quality parameters is determined by using mutual information, coefficient of variation and the water quality classes. Finally, an enhanced beetle antennae search algorithm is proposed to optimize the weight values of the crucial parameters in the range 0 to 1, which represent the ratio of the crucial parameter in the minimum WQI (WQImin) model. The WQImin models with the various crucial water quality parameters are implemented for water quality assessment. The effectiveness and superiority of the proposed enhanced beetle antennae search algorithm are validated in comparison with other evolutionary algorithms. The results show that the proposed WQImin model can assess the water quality accurately.
Epidemiological Studies Of Malaria In Gboko Metropolis, Gboko Local Government Area Of Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbuefi Emmanuel Okwudili , Aribodor Dennis Nnanna , Joe-Ikechebelu Ngozi Nneka , Aribodor Ogechukwu Benedicta , Okechukwu Ifeoma Chizoba , Orjichukwu Obinna Ndubueze
Published: March 2022

We carried out an epidemiological study of malaria in Gboko metropolis in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, North - Central Nigeria to determine the malaria prevalence, risk factors and perception to malaria control among patients attending the hospital clinics between April and June, 2021. We used Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), thin blood and thick blood film microscopy to sample the blood of 415 patients to determine specie, prevalence and intensity of malaria parasites. Also, structured questionnaire was administered to 400 individuals to obtain information on malaria management practices of the people. Chi-square test P<0.05 was used to check for relationships between prevalence of malaria and other parameters in the study. The prevalence rate was found to be (55.7%) 231/415 and all (100%) were infections of Plasmodium falciparum. There was significant difference (p<0.05) in the prevalence by age with the age groups 20-29 years having the highest prevalence of 68.9% (51/74). General Hospital Gboko recorded the highest prevalence of 74.3% (92/124) while Royal Hospital Gboko recorded the lowest prevalence of 31.6% (12/38) with a significant difference. The intensity of malaria infection showed that 45.9% (106/231) had moderate infection with no significant difference. In the administration of questionnaire, the respondents in Gboko demonstrated a good knowledge of malaria, 93.2% (373/400) opined that they have heard about malaria before. Respondents who do not sleep under LLINs recorded that 32.6% (30/92) do not have the mosquito net recorded, 17.4% (16/92) had no money to buy mosquito net while 10.9% (10/92) averred that it’s not comfortable sleeping under the net. Malaria public enlightenment efforts should be intensified to make malaria elimination not just possible but also achievable in Gboko Metropolis, Benue State.
General Solutions of the Riccati Equation
Authors: Zhao Ji-Xiang
Published: March 2022

By elementary quadrature method, a new integrability condition for the Riccati equation is obtained. Based on it, general solutions with multiple constant parameters to the Riccati equation are discovered.
Efficiency of gestational diabetes mellitus screening and socio-demographics of pregnant subjects attending antenatal care.
Authors: Chukwunyere Chibuike , Awonuga David , Adesina Olubiyi , Udenze Ifeoma
Published: March 2022

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a glucose intolerance of variable severity that can have devastating effect on the fetus.1 Aim: To determine the efficiency of GDM screening and the sociodemograhic variables of mothers among population at risk.Methods: A cross-sectional study among pregnant women booked for antenatal care (ANC) at Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 100 pregnant women attending ANC. The subjects were screened with World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria2 for gestational diabetes mellitus using 75g Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) with either fasting plasma glucose ≥ 5.1 mmol, or the 2 hour post glucose load ≥ 8.5 mmol or both. To determine if gestational diabetes is present in pregnant women, a standard OGTT was performed after overnight fasting (8–12 hours) by giving 75 g anhydrous glucose in 250–300 ml. The pregnant subjects that met the inclusion criteria were scheduled to have overnight fasting of between 8 to 12hours before fasting plasma glucose (FPG) testing, having done random plasma glucose (RPG) test at first presentation. Samples of venous blood were collected into sodium fluoride container. The glucose oxidase method of estimation of plasma glucose was used to assay the samples3. It involved the use of the enzyme glucose oxidase that reacts with glucose, water and oxygen to form gluconic acid and hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide produced oxidizes a chromogen (or the consumption of oxygen) which is measured to estimate the amount of glucose present.Results: During this study, a total of 100 eligible pregnant women were screened for GDM using FPG, RPG and the 75-OGTT. The mean age ± standard deviation (sd) of the participants was 34.81±4.04 yrs; mean BMI was 31.46±7.29 kg/m2 and modal parity was 1 (32%) (Table I). The majority of the pregnant subjects, 74 (74%) had tertiary level of education.The RPG cut off values of ≥7.8 mmol/l gave PPV of 66% and NPV of 72.3% with PLR and NLR of 4.76 and 0.89 respectively. The efficiency of RPG ≥7.8 mmol/l in diagnosing GDM was 72%. Also increasing the cut-off point of RPG to ≥11.1 mmol/l gave efficiency of 72% while the highest efficiency was achieved using FPG of ≥5.1 mmol/l which gave the efficiency of 95%. The greatest positive predictive value of 100% was given by FPG value ≥7.0 mmol/l and RPG value of ≥11.1 mmol/l.Conclusion: GDM screening with FPG revealed high efficiency of 95% at threshold of 5.1 mmol/l. Maternal age of 35-40 yrs had the highest incidence of GDM in our population.
Knowledge, Attitude and Barriers to Maternal Oral Health Among Expectant Mothers at a Tertiary Hospital in Western Kenya
Authors: Kaba Paulina , Chelegat Dinnah , Ochiba Lukandu
Published: March 2022

Background Pregnant women are more susceptible to oral health conditions such as gingivitis due to hormonal changes, frequent vomiting, changes in dietary habits as well as changes in their immunity. In addition, lack of information on oral healthcare during pregnancy may contribute to poor oral health seeking behaviour and increased oral disease burden among expectant mothers. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude and barriers to maternal oral healthcare among pregnant women seeking health services at a referral hospital in Western Kenya. The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive study design. Method A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 379 participants. A total of 309 pregnant women were selected using systematic sampling technique. A census approach was used to recruit 70 nurse-midwives working at the maternal and child health units. The functionalist theory and health belief model were used to generate the conceptual framework for this study. Interviewer administered structured questionnaire were employed for pregnant women and self-administered questionnaires were used in the case of nurse-midwives. Descriptive results were presented in frequency tables, bar charts and pie charts as appropriate. Ordered logistic regressions were conducted to respectively ascertain the predictors of and differences in pregnant mothers’ and nurse-midwives’ knowledge and perceived barriers to maternal oral health. A p value <.05 at 95% confidence level was considered significant. Results A total of 309 pregnant women participated, with a mean age of participants was 28±5 years and a mean parity of 2±1. Almost half 132 (42.7%) of all the participants reported to have some oral disorder such as bleeding gums, sensitive teeth, tooth ache or tooth decay. Only 30 (9.7%) had visited a dentist in the previous 12 months. Majority 266 (86%) had a low level of oral health knowledge by agreeing to the statement that it is normal to have a bleeding gums during pregnancy while 266 (86%) were of the view that dental extraction is unsafe during pregnancy. Women who had basic or secondary education demonstrated poorer knowledge (Coef. =-0.736, p=0.016) and attitude (Coef. =-0.453, p=0.54) compared to women who had tertiary education. Conclusion The greatest barriers to oral healthcare among these expectant mothers was lack of relevant information or oral health 256(83%) and high cost of dental treatment 232(75%). Other perceived barriers included lack of money for transportation and long distance to the nearest health facility.
The association between the level of vitamin D3 and insulin resistance in the general adult population of the United States: A cross-sectional study based on the NHANES database
Authors: Gong Rongpeng , Wang Mingxiang , Yang Lei , Wei Xiaoxing
Published: March 2022

Background Nowadays, the number of patients with type 2 diabetes is increasing yearly, the leading cause of which is insulin resistance. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the causes of insulin resistance in the population. Understanding the mechanism of insulin resistance can effectively prevent and control the occurrence of type 2 diabetes. Few studies been conducted from the perspective of the general population previously, now, we used the NHANES public database to analyze the relationship between vitamin D3 and insulin resistance in the general population of the United States (≥18 years old), to provide clinical evidence and try to find a appropriate level of vitamin D3 in the general population. Methods The Health Center conducted a survey from 2008 to 2018, covering five cycles with 49,696 participants who were eligible for the study. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between vitamin D3 and insulin resistance, excluding other potential confounders, and a smooth curve fitting was drawn. Result This study found a significant association between vitamin D3 and insulin resistance, with an odds ratio and 95%CI of 0.89 (0.83, 0.95). The association was most significant at BMI 24-28, with odds ratio and 95%CI of 0.80(0.69, 0.93). Conclusion This study suggests that keeping vitamin D3 levels as high as possible in the general US population can effectively reduce the incidence of insulin resistance.
Determination of Nephrotoxicity, Hepatotoxicity and Cardiovascular Disturbances following Malayan Pit Viper (Calloselasma rhodostoma) Envenoming: Histopathological study and The Protective Effect of Hemato Polyvalent Snake Antivenom from Thailand
Authors: Chaisakul Janeyuth , Khimmaktong Wipapan , Nuanyaem Nazmi , Lorthong Nissara , Hodgson Wayne C.
Published: March 2022

Calloselasma rhodostoma (Malayan pit viper) is a medically important snake species found widely distributed across Southeast Asia. Systemic coagulopathy causing severe hemorrhage, and local tissue injury, are commonly found following C. rhodostoma envenoming. However, the unusual nephrotoxicity and congestive heart failure have been reported in a patient who had a long length of hospital stay. In this study, we determined the effect of C. rhodostoma envenoming on cardiovascular disturbances and morphological changes of liver, heart and kidney using animal models. We also evaluated the protective effect of Hemato polyvalent antivenom (HPAV; The Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute (QSMI) of the Thai Red Cross Society, Thailand) to neutralise histopathological effect on C. rhodostoma envenomed tissues. Intravenous administration of C. rhodostoma venom (1000 µg/kg, i.v.) caused rapid decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) followed by complete cardiac collapse in anaesthetized rats. Moreover, intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of C. rhodostoma venom (11.1 mg/kg; 3xLD50) for 24 h caused cellular lesions in liver and heart tissues. C. rhodostoma venom also induced nephrotoxicity indicated by the presence of tubular injury, interstitial vascular congestion and inflammatory infiltration in the whole area of kidney. Administration of HPAV at recommended doses by manufacturer 15 min prior to or after experimentally envenoming of C. rhodostoma venom significantly reduced morphological changes of liver, heart and kidneys. This study found that C. rhodostoma envenoming can induce cardiovascular disturbances, hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. We also highlighted the potential broad utility of the HPAV for treating C. rhodostoma envenomings to neutralize histopathological effect of C. rhodostoma venom. However, the early delivery of antivenom in recommended doses by manufacturer appear to capable of preventing envenoming outcomes.
Changes In Retinal Thickness And Vessel Density After Phacoemulsification With OCTA In Cataract
Authors: Jin Ganying , Li Qi , Hu Dongrui , Zeng Qingsen
Published: March 2022

Purpose. To study the effects of phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation on macular thickness, vessel density and optic disc thickness by OCTA.Methods. A retrospective study. Patients with age-related cataract diagnosed were collected, and all of them underwent phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation. All patients had completed ophthalmologic examinations, including UCVA in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), IOP, AL, a slit-lamp microscope, B-scans, corneal endothelioscopy, funduscopic photography and retinal thickness and blood flow drensity were measured by OCTA. Follow-up was 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.Results. A total of 25 patients (38 eyes) were enrolled in this study. The UCVA and macular inner thickness were increased while IOP was decreased(P＜0.001). This study showed that the thickness of macular and RNFL decreased on the first day postoperative (P＜0.001), and increased at 3 months postoperatively (P＜0.001). Meanwhile, vessel density in macular area and optic disc area decreased on the first postoperative day compared with that before surgery, and then showed an increasing trend. However, there was no statistical significance in the changes of vessel density in deep macular area and optic disc area(P＞0.05).Conclusions. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that macular thickness, inner retinal thickness, and RNFL decreased on the first day after phacoemulsification and then increased at 3 months. The vessel density in the deep macular and superficial layers, the whole image and inside disc vessel density were increased, while the blood flow density in peripapillary is decreased. As a non-invasive method, OCTA provides a good guide for the decision of cataract surgery.
A Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model to Predict Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin Disposition in Rats and Human
Authors: Montanha Maiara Camotti , Howarth Alice , Mohamed Doaa Ahmed , Loier Estelle , Main Lauren , Rösslein Matthias , Delmaar Christiaan , Prina-Mello Adriele , Siccardi Marco
Published: March 2022

The use of nanoparticles (NPs) can support an enhancement of drug distribution, resulting in increased drug penetration into key tissues. Experimental in vitro data can be integrated into computational approaches to simulate NP absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) processes and provide quantitative pharmacokinetic predictions. The aim of this study is to develop a novel mechanistic and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (m-PBPK) model to predict the biodistribution of NPs focusing on Doxil.The main processes underpinning NPs ADME were represented considering molecular and cellular mechanisms such as stability in biological fluids, passive permeability, and uptake activity by macrophages. A whole-body m-PBPK rat and human models were designed in Simbiology v. 9.6.0 (MATLAB R2019a).The m-PBPK models was successfully qualified across doxorubicin and Doxil® in both rat and human since all PK parameters AUC0 − inf, Cmax, t1/2, Vd and Cl were within 2-fold, with an AUC0 − inf absolute average-fold error (AAFE) value of 1.23 and 1.16, and 1.76 and 1.05 for Doxorubicin and Doxil® in rat and human, respectively. The time to maximum concentration in tissues for doxorubicin in both rat and human models was before 30 minutes of administration, while for Doxil® the tmax was after 24 hours of administration. The organs that accumulate most NP are spleen, liver, and lungs, in both models.The m-PBPK represents a predictive platform for the integration of in vitro and formulation parameters in a physiological context to quantitatively predict the NP biodistribution.
Research on predicting the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma based on Notch signal-related genes using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Zhou Dingzhong , Cao Sujuan , Xie Hui
Published: March 2022

Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly malignant malignant tumor, and is difficult to diagnose, treat and predict the prognosis. Notch signaling pathway can affect HCC. Therefore, our paper aimed to explore the prediction of the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma based on Notch signal-related genes using machine learning algorithms.Methods:In our presented study, we downloaded HCC data from TCGA and GEO databases. Firstly, we used machine learning methods to screen the hub Notch signal-related genes. Then, machine learning classification was used to construct a prediction model for the classification and diagnosis of HCC cancer. In our presented study, we also used bioinformatics methods to explore the relationship between the expression of these hub genes in the HCC tumor immune microenvironment to further improve the reliablity of the model.Results:After screening, we identified four hub genes of LAMA4, POLA2, RAD51 and TYMS, which were used as the final variables to construct the model. It was found that AdaBoostClassifie was the best algorithm for the classification and diagnosis model of HCC. The area under curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and F1 score of this model in the training set were 0.976, 0.881, 0.877, 0.977, 0.996, 0.500 and 0.932; respectively. The AUC, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and F1 score in the testing set were 0.934, 0.863, 0.881, 0.886, 0.981, 0.489 and 0.926. The AUC in the external validation set was 0.934. In the immune microenvironment, immune cell infiltration played an important role in HCC and was related to the expression of 4 hub genes. Further researches found that patients in the low-risk group of HCC were more likely to have immune escape.Conclusion: Notch signaling pathway were closely related to the occurrence and development of HCC. The HCC classification and diagnosis model established based on this had a high degree of reliability and stability.
Posterior malleolar fractures: Was the incidence of severe adverse 2 events unacceptably high, before increased use of direct posterior 3 fragment fixation?
Authors: Malmberg Catarina , Tengberg Peter , Karimi Dennis , Frederiksen Jonas , Troelsen Anders , Terndrup Mads
Published: March 2022

Background: Fixation of posterior malleolar (PM) fragments remains a controversial topic in ankle fracture management. Our objective was to examine the incidence of severe adverse events (AEs) associated with surgical management of patients with ankle fractures involving the posterior malleolus before increased use of direct PM fragment fixation.Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study including patients from a level III trauma center in the Capital region of Denmark. Adult patients (age >18 years) with ankle fractures involving a PM fragment treated surgically with a minimum of 18 months follow-up were included. The main outcome measurements were adverse events (graded using the Orthopaedic Surgical Adverse Events Severity (OrthoSAVES) System) requiring revision in the first 12 months after surgery. Results: In 75 out of 421 included patients (17.8%), PM fragments were surgically fixed. During the first twelve months after surgery, 34 patients (8.1% (95% CI [5.9–11.1%])) experienced AEs requiring revision. 17 patients (4%) were revised due to deep infection, 10 patients (2.4%) due to malpositioned implants, and 3 patients (0.7%) due to postoperative loss of reduction. Additional causes of revision were impingement of intraarticular fragment, non-union, postoperative joint dislocation, and postoperative vascular insufficiency leading to transmetatarsal amputation. Conclusions: The incidence of AEs requiring revision within the first twelve months after surgery was 8.1%, and the overall risk of severe AEs seemed unacceptably high. If direct PM fragment fixation can decrease the risk of severe AEs, then a change of practice could be justified. Further prospective studies are needed to establish generalizability, safety and efficacy before direct PM fragment fixation can be recommended in clinical guidelines.
African Swine Fever Detection and Transmission Estimates Using Homogeneous Versus Heterogeneous Model Formulation in Stochastic Simulations Within Pig Premises
Authors: Ssematimba Amos , Malladi Sasidhar , Bonney Peter J. , Charles Kaitlyn M. St. , Boyer Timothy C. , Goldsmith Timothy , cardona Carol J , Corzo Cesar A. , Culhane Marie R.
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to assess the impact on within-herd transmission dynamics of African swine fever (ASF) when the models used to simulate transmission assume there is homogeneous mixing of animals within a barn. Barn-level heterogeneity was explicitly captured using a stochastic, individual pig-based, heterogeneous transmission model that considers three types of infection transmission, 1) within-pen via nose-to-nose contact; 2) between-pen via nose-to-nose contact with pigs in adjacent pens; and 3) both between- and within-pen via distance independent mechanisms (e.g., via fomites). Predictions were compared between the heterogeneous and the homogeneous Gillespie models. Results showed that the predicted mean number of infectious pigs at specific time points differed greatly between the homogeneous and heterogeneous models for scenarios with low levels of between pen contacts via distance independent pathways and the differences between the two model predictions were more pronounced for the slow contact rate scenario. The heterogeneous transmission model results also showed that it may take significantly longer to detect ASF, particularly in large barns when transmission predominantly occurs via nose-to-nose contact between pigs in adjacent pens. The findings emphasize the need for completing preliminary explorations when working with homogeneous mixing models to ascertain their suitability to predict disease outcomes.
Synthesis and characterization of copper deposited on MCM-41 synthesized by co-condensation and post-synthesis grafting methods for the synthesis of 5‑substituted 1H‑tetrazoles in water
Authors: Ghadermazi Mohammad , Molaei Somayeh , Khorami Shida
Published: March 2022

Cu-functionalized mesoporous MCM-41 materials were synthesized via two different types of post-functionalization modification of MCM-41, without the ligand (MCM-41@Cu) and with ligand (MCM-41@Histidine@Cu). Cu-functionalized mesoporous MCM-41 sample was also prepared directly via co-condensation of CuCl2 and decyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) (Cu-MCM-41). The textural properties of the samples were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectra, nitrogen adsorption − desorption, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the structure of MCM-41 persisted after modification. These catalysts are efficient catalysts for the synthesis of 5-substituted 1Htetrazoles in water. Cu-functionalized mesoporous MCM-41 materials displayed high catalytic performance at low-temperature. Cu-functionalized MCM-41 sample synthesized with direct co-condensation method displayed better catalytic activity compared to Cu-functionalized mesoporous MCM-41 materials prepared with post-synthesis grafting methods. These catalysts can be easily recovered.
D-Dimer, A Predictor Of Bad Outcome In Gastric Cancer Patients Undergoing Radical Resection
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Xuan , Li Wenxing , Sun Tuanhe , Diao Dongmei , Dang Chengxue
Published: March 2022

Introduction: As a marker of hypercoagulability, plasma D-dimer is associated with progression of many cancers but remains controversial in gastric cancer (GC). We aim to investigate the predictive value of D-dimer for postoperative outcomes after radical gastrectomy of GC patients.Materials and Methods: We enrolled 903 consecutive patients with GC who underwent radical gastrectomy and the clinicopathological characteristics were compared. Risk factors for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were determined using multivariate cox regression analysis. We also compared the difference in survival between the two groups after a one-to-one propensity score matching (PSM).Results: Patients with elevated D-dimer had older age (p<0.001), advanced TNM stage (p<0.001), larger tumor size (p=0.005), lower 5-year OS rate (32.8% vs 62.6%, p<0.001) and DFS (29% vs 59.6%, p<0.001). In multivariate analysis, elevated D-dimer was independently associated with shorter OS [hazard ratio (HR): 1.633, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.178-2.264, p=0.003] and DFS (HR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.151-2.169, P=0.005). After PSM, the 5-year OS rate of patients with elevated D-dimer was still significantly lower than matched group (32.8% vs 40.6%, p=0.005), so was DFS (29% vs 36.6%, p=0.008).Conclusion: Preoperative plasma D-dimer is an independent prognostic factor for GC patients undergoing curative gastrectomy.
Abdominal Massage Regulates the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Sensitivity through Mast Cells mediated Trypase -PAR2-PKCε pathway
Authors: Wang Jingui , Li Huanan , Zhang Wei , Ma Fei , Zhang Xianfan , Wang Yuyan
Published: March 2022

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a clinical disease mainly manifested by abdominal pain and discomfort, which troubles the majority of human aged 20-50. Abdomen massage is of great medical significance for the health of the body, including promoting intestinal peristalsis, relieving constipation, helping to lose weight. However its function and mechanism in IBS was seldom reported. Methods：Firstly, we established IBS and abdomen massage rat model to detect the distribution of mast cells. Then, we used transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence staining and laser confocal focus to visualize the micromorphology of intestinal mucosa, the expression of TRPV1 and the release of trypase. RT-qPCR and Western Blot were used for the mechanism study. Results：We found that compared with the control group, the MC in IBS group was significantly increased and the increased MC was partially decreased by abdominal massage with or without ketotifen treated. We also found that TRPV1 was up-regulated in IBS group. Abdominal massage with or without ketotifen treated could attenuate the up-regulation of TRPV1 in IBS and massage group. Mechanically, results of IHC and Western Blot suggested abdominal massage reduce the sensitivity of IBS by regulating trypase -PAR2-PKCε pathway.Conclusion: Overall, our results suggested that abdominal massage paly a protective role in IBS through inhibiting MC and trypase -PAR2-PKCε pathway. Ketotifen could promote the effect of abdominal massage on IBS treatment, which would be a potential therapeutic strategy for IBS.
Induction Bending Effects on Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of Duplex Stainless Steel UNS S31803 Pipes
Authors: Garcia Pedro Soucasaux Pires , Pardal Juan Manuel , Tavares Sérgio Souto Maior , de Souza Larissa Ribeiro , Meireles Antônio Marcelo , Souza Mauro Carlos Lopes , Areiza Maria Cristina Lopez , Martins Tabatta Regina de Brito
Published: March 2022

Duplex stainless steels are well known austenitic-ferritic alloys which combines good mechanical resistance and excellent corrosion resistance. Due to this fact, this steel family is widely employed in offshore piping applications. However, these alloys require great care in thermomechanical processing, such as welding, since they might present serious decrease in corrosion resistance and toughness at the welded joint when compared to the base metal. Undeniably, welding is one of the major processes employed in pipe and industrial equipment assembly, thus requiring higher expertise and caution in order to achieve the desirable good combination of properties of duplex stainless steel alloys. In this context, induction bending process comes as an efficient alternative to reduce the number of weld joints in piping designs. In this work, induction bent tubes were characterized after bending in temperatures inside and outside the standard recommended range, that is, between 950 and 1150°C. Microstructural characterization, mechanical testing and corrosion tests were performed, indicating that the properties of curved materials remained comparable to a solubilized state. Therefore, the electromagnetic induction bending process proves to be not only a viable tool in thermomechanical processing of these materials, but also more productive.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on congenital diaphragmatic hernia patients: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Yun-Long , Wang Ying , Liu Chao , Jiang Yu-Lin , Wei Yan-Dong , Meng Hua , Jian Shan , Zhu Xi-Ting , Pei Li-Jian , Bai Xiao-Chen , Feng Feng , Lv Yan , Zhou Xi-Ya , Qi Qing-Wei , Li Jing-Na , Ji Wei , Ma Li-Shuang
Published: March 2022

Purpose To investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the treatment of children with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).Methods We retrospectively collected and compared the data of patients with CDH admitted between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021 with the CDH patients admitted before the pandemic between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2019 (control group).Results During the pandemic, 41 patients with CDH diagnosed prenatally were transferred to our hospital, and 40 underwent surgical repair. The number of patients treated in our hospital increased by 24.2% compared with that before the pandemic. During the pandemic, the overall survival rate, postoperative survival rate and recurrence rate were 85.4%, 87.5% and 7.3%, respectively, and there were no significant differences compared with the control group. The average length of hospital stay in patients admitted during the pandemic was longer than that in the control group, and the incidence of nosocomial infection was higher than that in the control group.Conclusions CDH patients confirmed to be SARS-CoV-2 infection-free can receive routine treatment. Our data indicate that the implementation of protective measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with appropriate screening and case evaluation, do not have a negative impact on the prognosis of children.