bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Treatment Failure Among Patients With Gunshot Wounds and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Kuchyn Iurii , Horoshko Vasyl'
Published: January 2021

Background: The 82.1% treatment failure of post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD), associated with gunshot wounds, is related to high incidence of chronic pain syndrome as well as resistance to the PTSD treatment. Defining treatment failure predictors among the PTSD patients with gunshot extremity wounds and the following therapy would improve treatment outcomes. Methods: A total of 218 patients completed the study. The Mississippi Scale for Combat-Related PTSD (M-PTSD) was used for assessment of the treatment outcome rate. The risk relation between treatment failure and factors was assessed by a univariate or multivariate logistic regression method, with the model accuracy measured by the AUC – Area under the ROC curve. The odds ratio (OR) was considered for the qualitative factor assessment. Results: The predictors of the PTSD treatment failure among the patients with gunshot wounds to the extremities are: 1) anesthesia type: the risk of failure is higher with the general anesthesia compared to the regional (p=0.002), OR=0.30 (95% CI 0.13-0.69) and the regional one with sedation (p=0.004), OR=0.30 (95% CI 0,14-0.65); 2) severe postoperative pain: the risk of treatment failure rises with increased pain intensity assessed by the visual analogue scale (p=0.02), OR=3.2 (95% CI 1.2-8.3). Conclusions: The analysis showed that administration of general anesthesia compared to the regional one (regardless of the sedation) and high postoperative pain intensity are associated with higher risk of the PTSD treatment failure among patients with gunshot wounds to the extremities. The preference of regional anesthesia and postoperative pain control may potentially improve the treatment outcomes. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: Retrospectively registered on December 28, 2020, NCT04689022
Improvement and Prediction of Secondary Metabolites Biosynthesis Under Yeast Extract Elicitation of Neem Cell Suspension Culture Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Farjaminezhad Reza , Garoosi Ghasemali
Published: January 2021

Neem is the medicinal plant used as antimalarial, antibacterial, antiviral, insecticide and antimicrobial. The aim of this study was investigate effect of yeast extract and sampling time on cell growth, secondary metabolites synthesis, SQS1 and MOF1 genes expression and prediction of secondary metabolites synthesis by response surface methodology. Highest fresh and dry cell weight were 580.25 g/L and 21.01 g/L obtained 6 days after addition 100 mg/L yeast extract. Highest azadirachtin accumulation and production were 16.08 mg/g DW and 219.78 mg/L obtained at 25 mg/L yeast extract for 2 and 4 days. Maximum mevalonic acid accumulation and production were 1.746 mg/g DW and 23.77 mg/L observed 2 days after addition 50 mg/L yeast extract addition. Highest amount of squalene accumulation (0.215 mg/g DW) and production (4.526 mg/L) were achieved 4 days after application of 50 mg/L yeast extract. Prediction results showed that highest azadirachtin accumulation (13.607 mg/g DW) and production (190.50 mg/L), mevalonic acid accumulation (0.500 mg/g DW) and production (5.57 mg/L) and squalene accumulation (0.301 mg/g DW) obtained by using 245 mg/L yeast extract for 2 days, 71 mg/L yeast extract for 2 days, 200 mg/L yeast extract for 4.96 days, whitout yeast extract for 6.54 days and 4 days, respectively and predicted that highest squalene production is achieved by long-term exposure to high concentrations of yeast extract. qRT-PCR analysis showed the maximum relative gene expression of SQS1 and MOF1 by addition 150 mg/L yeast extract for 4 days and 25 mg/L yeast extract for 2 days, respectively.
Spin Structure Factors of Doped Monolayer Germanene in the Presence of Spin-Orbit Coupling
Authors: rezania hamed , azizi farshad
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we present a Kane-Mele model in the presence of magnetic field and next nearest neighbors hopping amplitudes for investigations of the spin susceptibilities of Germanene layer.Green's function approach has been implemented to find the behavior of dynamical spin susceptibilities of Germanene layer within linear response theory and in the presence of magnetic field and spin-orbit coupling at finite temperature.Our results show the magnetic excitation mode for both longitudinal and transverse components of spin tends to higher frequencies with spin-orbit coupling strength.Moreover the frequency positions of sharp peaks in longitudinal dynamical spin susceptibility are not affected by variation of magnetic field while the peaks in transverse dynamical susceptibility moves to lower frequencies with magnetic field.The effects of electron doping on frequency behaviors of spin susceptibilities have been addressed in details.Finally the temperature dependence of static spin structure factors due to the effects of spin-orbit coupling, magnetic field and chemical potential has been studied.
Safety and Effectiveness of High-Dose Vitamin C in Patients with COVID-19; A Randomized Controlled open-label Clinical Trial ‎
Authors: JamaliMoghadamSiahkali Saeidreza , Zarezade Besharat , Koolaji Sogol , Alinaghi Seyed Ahmad Seyed , Zendehdel Abolfazl , Tabarestani Mohammad , Moghadam Ehsan Sekhavati , Abbasian Ladan , Manshavi Sayed Ali Dehghan , Salehi Mohamadreza , Hasannezhad Malihe , Ghaderkhani Sara , Meidani Mohsen , Salahshour Faeze , Jafari Fatemeh , Manafi Navid , Ghiasvand Fereshteh
Published: January 2021

Background: To assess the effectiveness of vitamin C treatment against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Methods: An open-label, randomized, and controlled trial was conducted on patients with severe COVID-19 infection. The case and control treatment groups each consisted of 30 patients. The control group received lopinavir/ritonavir and hydroxychloroquine and the case group received high-dose of vitamin C (six gr daily) added to the same regimen. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between two groups with respect to age and gender, laboratory results, and underlying diseases. On the 3rd day of hospitalization, the mean core body temperatures was significantly lower and SpO2 was higher In the case group (p value = 0.001, and 0.014, respectively). The median length of hospitalization in case group which was significantly longer than the control group (8.5 days vs. 6.5 days) (p value = 0.0280). There was no significant difference in SpO2 levels at discharge time, the length of ICU stay, and mortality between the two groups.Conclusions: We did not find significantly better outcomes in the group who were treated with high-dose vitamin C in addition to the main treatment regimen at discharge.Trial registration: The project was registered by Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials.IRCT20200411047025N1
Diabetes Outbreak During COVID19 Lock-down in a Prediabetic Patient with Cystic Fibrosis Long Treated With Glargine
Authors: Rosanio Francesco Maria , Mozzillo Enza , Cimbalo Chiara , Casertano Alberto , Sepe Angela , Raia Valeria , Franzese Adriana , Tosco Antonella
Published: January 2021

Background: Cystic Fibrosis Related Diabetes (CFRD) is a frequent comorbidity of patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). A worsening of clinical conditions appears before CFRD. It has been demonstrated a decline in pulmonary function and nutritional status also in patients with prediabetes. Few trials show that insulin may be beneficial in prediabetic CF patients, to date guidelines do not recommended for this condition. Case presentation: we report a case of a patient treated with insulin glargine at 13, due to glycemic intolerance, and with Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor at 15. A reduction of pulmonary exacerbations was observed after glargine therapy, also confirmed after the starting of Lumacaftor/ Ivacaftor in this patient. Pulmonary function improved only after the first year of glargine therapy, then a deterioration appeared due to the natural history of CF lung damage. During the COVID-19 lockdown, poor adherence to care contributed to diabetes onset needing high insulin requirements. After two weeks the patient returned to prediabetic condition and his previous dose of glargine. Conclusions: our case highlights firstly that insulin glargine has contributed to preserve him from further clinical worsening due to prediabetes in the years before pandemic, secondly the negative impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the clinical course of a chronic disease as CF.
Comprehensive Analysis of Autophagy-related Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Li , Qu Jialin , Zhou Na , Jiang Man , Zhang Xiaochun
Published: January 2021

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the common type of cause of cancer-related death among human cancers. There are ample evidences to showing that autophagy-related genes (ARGs) may play a significant role in the biological process of HCC. Methods: In this study, we aim to identify survival model and nomogram that could effectively predict the prognosis of HCC based on ARGs. First, we download the data of HCC patients from TCGA database. Second, we analysis the function of ARGs by utilized GO and the KEGG analysis. Finally, we screen 5 ARGs (SQSTM1, CAPN10, EIF2S1, ATIC, RHEB) for survival model by performed the Cox regression and Lasso regression analysis. We further built and verified a prognostic nomogram base on prognostic ARGs. Moreover, its efficacy was validated by the ICGC database. The expressions level of 5 ARGs was performed using Oncomine database, the Human Protein Atlas and Kaplan-Meier plotter.Result: We found patients the survival of patients in the different groups was significantly different both in the TCGA cohort and ICGC cohort. The survival model showed good performance for predicting the prognosis of HCC patients by having a better area under the receiver operating characteristic curve than other clinicopathological parameters. Conclusion: our survival models and prognostic ARGs nomogram can be independent risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
Complementary Feeding: Is It The Forgotten Factor of The First 1000 Days of Life?
Authors: Njeru Catherine Muthoni , Ngugi Anthony , Kathomi Caroline , Limbe Mary Slessor
Published: January 2021

Background:Appropriate complementary feeding is a practice with great potential for reduction of nutrition-related diseases and mortalities in children. However, uptake of the recommended World Health Organisation (WHO) infant and young child feeding practices in Kenya remains low. Most previous studies have been done in rural or urban poor populations hence the need to provide practical guidelines for the complementary feeding period in a typical middle-class urban setting. This study investigated complementary feeding practices by caregivers of infants and young children on follow up at Aga Khan University Hospital-Nairobi (AKUH-N) well-baby clinic and the factors influencing compliance with the WHO guidelines.Methods:A total of 290 caregivers of infants and young children aged between nine and twenty-four months were interviewed using a questionnaire. Out of these, 21 were purposively sampled to participate in a qualitative study using in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data while descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used for quantitative data. A convergent parallel design was used to integrate the qualitative and quantitative data.Results:Out of 290 caregivers interviewed, 125 (43.1%) complied with WHO complementary feeding guidelines. Proportions of underweight and stunting were 6.9% and 1.7%, respectively, while that of overweight was 8.6%. Factors that affected complementary feeding practices included education level of the caregiver, access to information, support from healthcare workers and fear of allergic reactions. Conclusions:Full compliance to WHO complementary feeding guidelines remained below 50%. In addition, the proportion of children who were overweight in this study was double the national average, highlighting a growing trend of obesity in childhood. Some of the factors positively associated with compliance with complementary feeding guidelines included access to multiple sources of information, and support from health workers and family members. Lack of tertiary education of the caregiver, absence of specific and practical guidelines, resource constraints and fear of allergies were found to negatively impact compliance with complementary feeding guidelines.
Lumbar Instability Induces Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy in a Rat Model
Authors: Wang Baojian , Gao Chunyu , Zhu Liguo , Zhang Ping , Sun Wu , Zhang Jingru , Gao Jinghua , Wei Xu
Published: January 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to establish a novel rat model for ligamentum flavum (LF) hypertrophy using lumbar instability and to elucidate the etiology of LF hypertrophy. Methods: A total number of 30 male rats were used. Lumbar instability was induced by surgical resection of L5/6 posterior elements (n=15). The other rats underwent a sham operation (n=15). After 8 weeks, all rats were taken lateral plain X-rays. The LF from L5/6 in both groups were harvested to investigate histological, immunohistological, and real-time PCR analysis. Results: According to radiological results, the disc height ratio and extension ratio were larger in the rats in the experimental group than that of in the control group. The HE staining showed that the LF thickness in the experimental group significantly increased in comparison to the control group. The Masson trichrome staining showed that the ratio of elastic fibers to collagen fibers in experimental group was lower than that in the control group. The protein and gene expression of TGF-β1, TNF-α, IL-1β, and Col 1 were significantly higher in the experimental group than that in the control group. Conclusion: It is the first time that lumbar instability directly induced LF hypertrophy in a reproducible rat model. Lumbar instability could lead to high expression of inflammatory and fibrotic factors in LF, causing the accumulation of collagen fibers and decreasing of elastic fibers.
Valid 3D Surface Superimposition References to Assess Facial Changes During Growth
Authors: Häner Simeon , Kanavakis Georgios , Matthey François , Gkantidis Nikolaos
Published: January 2021

Currently, the primary techniques applied for the assessment of facial changes over time utilize 2D images. However, this approach has important limitations related to the dimensional reduction and the accuracy of the used data. 3D facial photography has been recently introduced as a risk-free alternative that overcomes these limitations. However, the proper reference areas that should be used to superimpose serial 3D facial images of growing individuals are not yet known. Here, we tested various 3D facial photo superimposition reference areas and compared their outcomes to those of a standard anterior cranial base superimposition technique. We found that a small rectangular area on the forehead plus an area including the middle part of the nose and the lower wall of the orbital foramen provided comparable results to the standard technique and showed adequate reproducibility. Other reference areas that have been used so far in the literature were less reliable. This is the first study to identify a valid superimposition reference area for serial 3D facial images of growing individuals. The utilization of the suggested method greatly expands the possibilities of this highly informative, risk free, and easily obtained 3D tool for the assessment of facial changes in growing individuals.
Kallistatin in Follicular Fluid of Women with Endometriosis and Its Correlation with IVF Outcome
Authors: Mao Yuling , Zhan Shaoquan , Qiao Jingda , Li Lei , Liu Hanyan , Chen Rui
Published: January 2021

Background: Endometriosis (EM) affects 10% of women in reproductive age and alters fertility. Its management is still debated notably the timing of surgery and ART in infertility. Kallistatin (KS) is an endogenous protein that regulates differential signaling pathways and biological functions. However, the function and the underlying molecular mechanism in endometriosis and its correlation with IVF outcome have not been determined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate KS concentrations in follicular fluid of women with EM and controls women without EM who underwent IVF with embryo transfer (IVF–ET). Methods: Follicular fluid KS concentrations from 40 patients with EM and 40 non-EM patients were measured by ELISA. Results: Compared with the non-EM patients, patients with EM had lower KS levels in follicular fluid (281.67±104.60 pg/ml vs. 490.70 ±216.33pg/ml). The rates of fertilization(61.64±22.42% vs. 71.00±24.39%) , available embryo (45.96±19.83% vs.50.61±26.26%) and top-quality embryo(12.71±21.01% vs.16.04±16.87%) were significantly lower in the EM group than in the control group. The KS concentrations in the follicular fluid of women who conceived consequent to the treatment were significantly higher than those from women who did not in the combined EM and control groups.Conclusions:The present results indicate that the KS concentration in follicular fluid could be used as a predictor for IVF–ET outcomes. This may contribute to the pathologic mechanism responsible for the poor outcome of IVF in patients with EM.
Metabolic resuscitation therapy in critically Ill patients with sepsis and septic shock: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Feng Fang , Yang Huyong , Yang Weiwei , Li Min , Chen Yu
Published: January 2021

ObjectiveTo further clarify the effectiveness and potential pathophysiological principles of metabolic resuscitation therapy in critically ill patients with sepsis and septic shock.MethodsProspective randomized controlled trial. Patients with sepsis and septic shock who were admitted to the ICU from Sep. 2019 to Mar. 2020 were prospectively enrolled. According to the computerized random sequence table, patients were randomly divided into the experimental group and the control group. All patients with sepsis were included in the research of cluster of initial therapy. The experimental group received metabolic resuscitation: vitamin C (1.5 g in an intravenous infusion q6h for 3 days), vitamin B1 (200 mg in an intramuscular injection q12h for 3 days), and hydrocortisone (50 mg in an intravenous infusion q6h for 7 days).ResultsOne hundred thirty-six patients with sepsis and septic shock were included in our study. Pneumonia was the main cause of sepsis and septic shock, including 33 (49%) and 41 (60%) patients in the experimental group and control group, respectively, and gram-negative bacilli were the main pathogenic bacteria (112/136, 82.4%). The ICU length of stay for the experimental group and the control group was 9 (7–12) and 11 (9–14) days, respectively, P = 0.002. The duration of vasoactive drugs (hours) was 20.8 ± 9.9 and 46.7 ± 12.8, respectively, P༜0.001. The 6-hour lactate clearance rate was 66.2% (55.5, 76.7) and 30.1% (15.6, 50) in the experimental group and control group, respectively, P = 0.000. The 72-hour PCT clearance rate was 70% (57.5, 80.3) and 40.7% (24.8, 52.2), respectively, P = 0.001. The ICU mortality rate was 8.8% (6/68) and 15% (15/68), respectively, P = 0.033.ConclusionsMetabolic resuscitation therapy is beneficial for patients with sepsis and septic shock, shortening the length of ICU stay, reducing the duration of vasopressor use, and reducing the ICU mortality rate of patients with sepsis and septic shock. However, large, multi-center, prospective randomized controlled trials are needed to further verify these results.Trial registrationChiCTR, ChiCTR1900026084. Registered 20 September 2019 - prospective registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=40910&htm=4
Feasibility of Non-Rebreather Masks and Nasal Cannula as a Substitute for High Flow Nasal Oxygen in Patients with Severe COVID-19 Infection
Authors: kabak mehmet , Cil Baris
Published: January 2021

Objective: Severe pneumonia and respiratory failure may develop in patients with coronavirus infection, placing a very significant burden on healthcare systems due to the need for both emergency and intensive care treatment. Therefore, treatment of hypoxemia is a clinical priority in the treatment of such patients. In this regard, newer strategies such as High Flow Nasal Oxygen (HFNO) and non-invasive mechanical ventilators that can provide non-invasive high fraction of inspired oxygen are gaining clinical significance. Our objective was to compare oxygen supply by HFNO with Non-Rebreather Masks and Nasal Cannula (NRMs + NC) in terms of treatment costs and mortality in a group of COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care unit admission. Material and Methods: This was a retrospective and single-center study involving 54 patients who were admitted to an Intensive Care Unit with a diagnosis of COVID-19 infection between July 2020 and August 2020. Results: HFNO was compared with NMRs + NC in terms of mortality and duration of hospital stay. The two groups were comparable in age (p=0.45), gender (p=0.33), and mortality (p=0.43). Also, there was no significant difference in oxygen saturation at admission (p=0.63), duration of intensive care (p=0.35), total length of hospital stay (p=0.057), and need for invasive mechanical ventilator (p=0.39) between the study groups. The levels of WBC (p=0.36), platelets (p=0.12), lymphocytes (p=0.98), CRP (p=0.11), pro-calcitonin (p=0.20), D-dimer (p=0.74), ferritin (p=0.14), urea (p=0.74), and creatinine (p=0.35) were also similar between the two groups. Conclusion: Oxygen support by NRMs + NC was comparable to HFNO in terms of mortality, need for invasive mechanic ventilation, length of intensive care, and length of hospital stay. We believe that NRMs + NC may represent an inexpensive and easily accessible therapeutic substitute for HFNO, particularly when the risk of transmission and costs related with HFNO use are considered.
A High-Throughput, Time-Resolved Fluorescence Approach Increases γ-H2AX Detection
Authors: Noubissi Felicite , McBride Amber , Leppert Hannah , Millet Larry , Wang Xiaofei , Davern Sandra
Published: January 2021

Phosphorylation of the histone protein H2AX to form γ-H2AX foci directly represents DNA double-strand break formation. Traditional γ-H2AX detection involves counting individual foci within individual nuclei. Here, we present the development of a sensitive high-throughput assay to quantify γ-H2AX using dissociation-enhanced lanthanide fluorescence immunoassay and time-resolved fluorescence. For comparison, standard fluorescence detection was employed and analyzed either by bulk fluorescent measurements or by direct foci counting using BioTek Spot Count algorithm and Gen 5 software. Etoposide induced DNA damage in A549 carcinoma cells was compared across all test platforms. Time resolved fluorescence detection of europium as a chelated complex enabled quantitative measurement of γ-H2AX foci with nanomolar resolution. Comparative bulk fluorescent signals achieved only micromolar sensitivity. Lanthanide based immunodetection of γ-H2AX offers superior detection and a user-friendly workflow. These high throughput approaches can potentially improve screening of compounds that either enhance DNA damage or protect against its deleterious effects.
The CYP450 Multigene Family of Fontainea and Insights Into Diterpenoid Synthesis
Authors: Mitu Shahida , Ogbourne Steven , Klein Anne , Tran Trong , Reddell Paul , Cummins Scott
Published: January 2021

Background: Cytochrome P450s (CYP450s) are enzymes that play critical roles in the biosynthesis of physiologically important compounds across all organisms. Although they have been characterised in a large number of plant species, no information relating to these enzymes are available from the genus Fontainea (family Euphorbiaceae). Fontainea is significant as the genus includes species that produce medicinally significant epoxy-tigliane natural products, one of which has been approved as an anti-cancer therapeutic. Results: A metabolome analysis showed that Fontainea species possess a chemical profile different from various other plant species. The diversity and expression profiles of Fontainea CYP450s were investigated from leaf and root tissue. A total of 103 and 123 full-length CYP450 genes in Fontainea picrosperma and Fontainea venosa, respectively (and a further 127/125 partial-length) that were phylogenetically classified into clans, families and subfamilies. The majority of CYP450 identified are most active within root tissue (66.2% F. picrosperma, 65.0% F. venosa). Fontainea CYP450 associated with diterpenoid biosynthesis were classified into 2 subfamilies (CYP71D and CYP726A), of which CYP726A1, CYP726A2 and CYP71D1 appear to be exclusive to Fontainea species, and significantly more highly expressed in root tissue compared to leaf tissue. Conclusion: This study presents a comprehensive overview of the CYP450 gene family in Fontainea that may provide important insights into the biosynthesis of the medicinally significant epoxy-tigliane diterpenes found within the genus.
Substrate stiffness-mediated YAP activation modulates endothelial function via Dll4-Notch1 signaling
Authors: Matsuo Eri , Okamoto Takayuki , Ito Atsushi , Kawamoto Eiji , Asanuma Kunihiro , Wada Koichiro , Shimaoka Motomu , Takao Motoshi , Shimamoto Akira
Published: January 2021

Vascular stiffness becomes progressively altered during vascular development and the formation of vascular lesions. Endothelial cells adapt their functions as a consequence of sensing extracellular substrate stiffness; these alterations allow them to maintain their vascular structure and function. In this study, we investigated the impact of stiffness of cell adhesion substrates on endothelial cell functions. We confirmed that endothelial cells on softer substrates not only elongate cellular aspects in a manner similar to that of angiogenic phenotype, but also attenuate yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) activation compared to cells on stiffer substrates. Endothelial cells on softer substrates also upregulate the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) and VEGFR2 mRNA expression that is enhanced by VEGF stimulation. We determined that endothelial cells on softer substrates increased Delta-like ligand 4 (Dll4) expression, but not Notch1 expression, via YAP signaling. Moreover, elevated Dll4-Notch1 signaling in endothelial cells on softer substrates contributed not only to VEGFRs upregulation, but also to suppression of pro-inflammatory IL-6 and PAI-1 mRNA expression and to the facilitation of anti-coagulant thrombomodulin and pro-coagulant tissue factor mRNA expression. Our results suggest that endothelial cells activate the YAP-Dll4-Notch signaling pathway in response to substrate stiffness and dictate cellular function.
Psychological Distress in Caregivers for People With Dementia: A Population-Based Analysis of A National Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sugawara Norio , Yasui-Furukori Norio , Maruo Kazushi , Shimoda Kazutaka , Sumiyoshi Tomiki
Published: January 2021

Background: Informal caregivers (CGs), also called family caregivers, play an important role in supporting the well-being of and providing care to older people with dementia. However, taking care of patients with dementia is often stressful and exhausting. To facilitate the sustainable provision of care to people with dementia at home, it is crucial to reduce the burden placed on CGs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychological distress experienced by CGs for care recipients with dementia (CRDs) and identify the sociodemographic factors affecting that distress.Methods: We utilized the 2013 Comprehensive Survey of the Living Conditions for CRDs and CGs. Linked data from 643 pairs of CRDs and CGs were extracted. The psychological distress experienced by CGs was measured by Kessler’s Psychological Distress scale (K6) with a cutoff point of 13. Factors predictive of psychological distress were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression analysis with the forward selection method.Results: Overall, the mean age of the CGs was 63.5 ± 11.6 years, and 5.3% (34/643) experienced serious psychological distress. Male sex of CRDs, knowing how to access consulting services, spending almost all day for nursing care, and having subjective symptoms within a few days were associated with having serious psychological distress, while older age, participating in shopping as part of the nursing, and having their own house were related to freedom from serious psychological distress.Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of the risk factors for psychological distress in CGs and consider providing support to reduce the burden imposed by modifiable factors. Further studies are warranted to examine whether such efforts would improve the mental health of CGs for CRDs.
The Contribution of Microorganisms to Soil Organic Carbon Stock Under Fertilization Varies among Aggregate Size Classes
Authors: Lu Jinjing , Li Shengping , Liang Guopeng , Wu Xueping , Zhang Qiang , Gao Chunhua , Li Jianhua , Jin Dongsheng , Zheng Fengjun , Zhang Mengni , Abdelrhman Ahmed Ali , Degré Aurore
Published: January 2021

Long term fertilization alters soil microbiological properties and then affects soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks. However, the interrelations of SOC with biological drivers and their relative importance are rarely analyzed quantitatively at aggregate scale. We investigated the contribution of soil microbial biomass, diversity and enzyme activity to C stock in soil aggregate fractions (> 5 mm, 2 − 5 mm, 1 − 2 mm, 0.25 − 1 mm and < 0.25 mm) at topsoil (0–15 cm) from 27-year long term fertilization regime. Compared to CK (no fertilization management), NPS and NPM (inorganic fertilization plus the incorporation of maize straw or composted cow manure) significantly reduced the impact of NP (inorganic fertilizers application alone) on the growth of microbial community, and increased the microbial contribution to C stock. The results showed that microbial variables were significantly correlated with SOC content in > 0.25 mm aggregates rather than in < 0.25 mm aggregates. Fungal variables (fungal, AM biomass, and F/B ratio) and enzyme activities (BXYL and LAP) in > 0.25 mm aggregates explained 21% and 2% on C, respectively. Overall, organic matter (OM) addition could contribute to higher C storage by boosting fungal community and enzyme activity rather than by changing microbial community diversity in macro-aggregates.
The Association of Dietary Acid Load with Resting Metabolic Rate and Metabolic Components in Overweight and Obese Women: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Mirzababaei Atieh , Shiraseb Farideh , Setayesh Leila , Tavakoli Atefeh , Clark Cain C. T. , Mirzaei Khadijeh -
Published: January 2021

Background: Several epidemiologic studies have reported that dietary acid load is associated with metabolic profiles; however, to our knowledge, the relationship of this dietary pattern with resting metabolic rate (RMR) among obese and overweight females remains unreported. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association of dietary acid load RMR and metabolic components among overweight and obese adult women.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 375 Iranian adults, aged 18–48 years. Dietary acid load indexes were calculated by using a validated 147-item semi-quantitative FFQ. Biochemical and anthropometric measures were assessed using standard methods. An impedance fat analyzer was used to obtain the body composition and an indirect calorimeter was used to assess the RMR. Result: It was observed that after correction for potential confounders, DBP and NEAP and PRAL scores were inversely associated (P<0.05). NEAP index was inversely associated with RMR (β= -0.25, 95% CI=-0.1.5 to 2.08, P=0.02), and positively associated with WC (β= 1.009, 95% CI=-1.43 to 3.45, P=0.05) and WHR (β= 0.01, 95% CI= -0.01 to0.04, P=0.03), such that subjects with higher scores in NEAP had lower RMR and higher WC and WHR. We also observed that DAL (β= -0.02, 95% CI= -0.08 to0.03, P=0.08) and PRAL (β= -0.037, 95% CI= -1.05 to 0.03 P=0.07) were marginally associated with RMR.Conclusion:The results of the present study suggested that higher dietary acid load scores may be negatively associated with lower RMR, while directly associated with greater WC, WHR, DBP, and HOMA-IR.
Study of Combustion Pattern in Oblique Detonation Engine
Authors: Namala Dheeraj Kumar , Mishra Kajal
Published: January 2021

Oblique detonation engines are being a centre of multiple kinds of research. Likewise, this paper provides the simulation at various Mach numbers to observe the pattern of combustion in an oblique detonation engine. considering Rahul et al paper[5] as a reference same conditions of pressure, temperature and wedge angles were used in this paper. yet, a different model of a chemical designed by M.O Conaire and H.J Curran[7] was used and simulation was performed at several Mach numbers until a fully developed combustion had been achieved.
Aberrant ROS Served as an Acquired Vulnerability of Cisplatin-resistant Lung Cancer
Authors: Xin Qian , Ji Qinghong , Zhang Ying , Ma Weihong , Tian Baoqing , Liu Yanli , Chen Yunsong , Wang Fei , Zhang Ran , Wang Xingwu , Yuan Jupeng
Published: January 2021

BackgroundLung cancer has become a global health issue in recent decades. Despite of high rate of resistance, cisplatin-base chemotherapy is still the main treatment of lung cancer patients who are not suitable for TKI-based targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Thus, overcoming cisplatin resistance is urgently needed.MethodsA small panel is established to screen chemicals and compounds overcoming cisplatin resistance. Survival fractions as well as proliferation are determined by MTT assay. Colony formation assay, JC-1 assay, EdU assay, ROS assay as well as apoptosis and cell cycle assay are performed to verify vitalities of different groups. Quantifications of NADP+/NADPH and GSH/GSSG are carried out according to standard protocols. Xenograft model is generated to evaluate the in vivo role of APR-246.ResultsIn this study, we identify NADPH metabolism and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels as the main cause accounting for cisplatin resistance of H460. Based on a small panel consisting common chemotherapy drugs and compounds, APR-246 is proved an effective compound specifically inhibiting proliferation and colony formation of cisplatin resistant H460 (H460-Cis) cells. APR-246 significantly causes G0/G1 accumulation and S phase inhibition of H460-Cis cells. Besides, APR-246 can obviously lead to severe mitochondria dysfunction as well as elevated apoptosis by altering apoptosis-related protein expressions in H460-Cis cells. Further study proves that it is the aberrant ROS levels as well as NRF2/SLC7A11/GSH axis dysfunction accounting for the specific anti-tumor effects of APR-246. Mechanistically, NRF2 is specifically ubiquitylated degraded in APR-246 treated H460-Cis cells, which in turn decrease NRF2/SLC7A11/GSH axis activity.ConclusionOur study uncovered new insights into the biology driving cisplatin resistance of lung cancer and highlights potentials of APR-246 as future therapeutic agents again cisplatin resistance.
The long noncoding RNA AATBC promotes breast cancer migration and invasion by interacting with YBX1 and activating the YAP1/Hippo signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Maonan , Dai Manli , Wang Dan , Tang Ting , Xiong Fang , Xiang Bo , Zhou Ming , Li Xiaoling , Li Yong , Xiong Wei , Li Guiyuan , Zeng Zhaoyang , Guo Can
Published: January 2021

BackgroundLong noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in the regulation of gene expression and are involved in several pathological responses. However, many important lncRNAs in breast cancer have not been identified and their expression levels and functions in breast cancer remain unknown.MethodsWe used the microarray data to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs between breast cancer and adjacent breast epithelial tissues. In vitro and in vivo assays were used to explore the biological effects of the differentially expressed lncRNA Apoptosis-Associated Transcript in Bladder Cancer (AATBC) in breast cancer cells. The mass spectrometry and RNA pulldown were used to screen AATBC interacting proteins. Using the Kaplan-Meier method, survival analysis was performed.ResultsThe expression of AATBC was significantly high in breast cancer samples, and this high AATBC level was tightly correlated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. In vitro and in vivo experiments indicated that AATBC promoted breast cancer cells migration and invasion. AATBC specifically interacted with Y-box binding protein 1 (YBX1), which activated the YAP1/Hippo signaling pathway by binding to macrophage stimulating 1 (MST1) and promoting the nuclear translocation of Yes associated protein 1 (YAP1), allowing its function as a nuclear transcriptional regulator. ConclusionsAATBC is highly expressed in breast cancer and contributes to patients’ progression, indicating that it could serve as a novel prognostic marker for the disease. Mechanistically, AATBC affects migration and invasion of breast cancer cells through an AATBC-YBX1-MST1 axis, resulting in activating the YAP1/Hippo signaling pathway. This is also an important supplement to the composition of the YAP1/Hippo signaling pathway. The model of “AATBC-YAP1” may bring a new dawn to the treatment of breast cancer.
The Oncogenic Capacities of Long Noncoding RNA SNHG1 in Bladder Cancer by inducing proliferation and repressing apoptosis via upregulation of microRNA-9-3p-targeted MDM2
Authors: Xu Weizhang , Hu Yun , Xu Haifei , Liu Haofeng , Wang Xiaolin , Zou Qing , Yang Xuejian , Cai Hongzhou
Published: January 2021

Background

The involvement of long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (lncRNA SNHG1) was documented in numerous cancers, including bladder, pancreatic and prostate cancers. However, the further mechanistic investigation of SNHG1 in bladder is still needed to conduct. With this purpose, tissue, cell, and animal experiments were implemented in our research to figure out the specific mechanism of SNHG1 in bladder cancer via microRNA-9-3p (miR-9-3p).
Methods

In harvested bladder cancer tissues, RNA-FISH and RT-qPCR were adopted for SNHG1 expression measurement and RT-qPCR for miR-9-3p expression determination. The impacts of SNHG1, miR-9-3p, MDM2, and PPARγ on cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis were evaluated by gain- and loss-of-function approaches. RT-qPCR and western blot analysis were performed to detect expression of MDM2, PPARγ, and apoptosis-related factors. RNA pull-down, RIP, dual luciferase reporter gene assay, and IP experiment were utilized to assess the modulatory relationship among SNHG1, miR-9-3p, MDM2, and PPARγ. Tumorigenic ability of bladder cancer cells was measured in vivo.
Results

High SNHG1 and poor miR-9-3p expression was identified in bladder cancer tissues and cells. Mechanistically, SNHG1 bound to miR-9-3p which negatively targeted MDM2. MDM2 augmented PPARγ ubiquitination to downregulate PPARγ. Bladder cancer cell proliferation was diminished and cell apoptosis was enhanced by silencing SNHG1 or MDM2 or overexpressing miR-9-3p. Similarly, SNHG1 silencing orchestrated miR-9-3p/MDM2/PPARγ axis to depress bladder cancer cell tumorigenesis in vivo.
Conclusion

In summary, the obtained data provided the novel insight of the anti-oncogenic mechanism of silencing SNHG1 in bladder cancer by activating PPARγ via downregulation of miR-9-3p-targeted MDM2.
Diffusion Basis Spectrum Imaging Measures Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroprotective Effects of Fingolimod on Murine Optic Neuritis
Authors: Yang Ruimeng , Lin Tsen-Hsuan , Zhan Jie , Lai Shengsheng , Song Chunyu , Sun Peng , Ye Zezhong , Wallendorf Michael , George Ajit , Cross Anne. H , Song Sheng-Kwei
Published: January 2021

Background A readily implemented noninvasive imaging modality for evaluating underlying disease pathology of optic neuritis (ON) and effectiveness of therapeutics in people with CNS demyelinating diseases is currently lacking. This study aims to prospectively determine whether diffusion basis spectrum imaging (DBSI) detects, differentiates and quantitates coexisting inflammation, demyelination, axonal injury and axon loss in mice with ON due to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), and to determine if DBSI accurately measures effects of fingolimod on underlying pathology.Methods EAE was induced in 7-week-old C57BL/6 female mice. Visual acuity (VA) was assessed daily to detect onset of ON (VA ≤ 0.25 cycle/degree of either eye) after which daily oral treatment with either fingolimod (1 mg/kg) or saline was given for ten weeks. In vivo DBSI scans of optic nerves were performed at baseline (before immunization), 2-, 6- and 10-weeks post treatment. DBSI-derived metrics including restricted isotropic diffusion tensor fraction (putatively reflecting cellularity), non-restricted isotropic diffusion tensor fraction (putative reflecting vasogenic edema), DBSI-derived axonal volume, axial diffusivity, λ∥ (putative reflecting axonal integrity), and increased radial diffusivity, λ⊥ (putatively reflecting demyelination). Mice were killed immediately after the last DBSI scan for immunohistochemical assessment.Results Optic nerves of fingolimod-treated mice exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) VA scores than saline-treated group at each time point. During ten-week of treatment, DBSI-derived non-restricted and restricted isotropic diffusion tensor fractions, and axonal volumes were not significantly different (p > 0.05) from the baseline values in fingolimod-treated mice, suggesting protection in the fingolimod treated mice. In contrast, in the saline-treated mice, transient DBSI-λ∥ decrease and DBSI-λ⊥ increase were also detected during Fingolimod treatment. DBSI-derived metrics assessed in vivo significantly correlated (p < 0.05) with the corresponding histological markers.Conclusions DBSI was used to assess changes of the underlying optic nerve pathologies in EAE mice with ON, exhibiting great potential as a noninvasive outcome measure for monitoring disease progression and therapeutic efficacy for MS.
Challenges in providing surgical procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic: Qualitative study among Operating Department Practitioners in Pakistan
Authors: Jafree Sara Rizvi , Momina Ain ul , Malik Nudra , Naqi Syed Asghar , Fischer Florian
Published: January 2021

Background

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are neglected human resources for health with regard to both professional development and research for patient safety. The surgical theatre is associated with the highest mortality rates and with the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic. ODPs are key practitioners with respect to infection control during surgeries. Therefore, this study aims to describe challenges faced by ODPs. The secondary aim is to use empirical evidence to inform the public health sector management about both ODP professional development and improvement in surgical procedures, with a specific focus on pandemics.
Methods

A qualitative study has been conducted. Data collection was based on an interview guide with open-ended questions. Interviews with 39 ODPs in public sector teaching hospitals of Pakistan who have been working during the COVID-19 pandemic were part of the analysis. Content analysis was used to generate themes.
Results

Ten themes related to challenges faced by ODPs in delivering services during the pandemic for securing patient safety were identified: (i) Disparity in training for prevention of COVID-19; (ii) Shortcomings in COVID-19 testing; (iii) Supply shortages of personal protective equipment; (iv) Challenges in maintaining physical distance and prevention protocols; (v) Human resource shortages and role burden; (vi) Problems with hospital administration; (vii) Exclusion and hierarchy; (viii) Teamwork limitations and other communication issues; (ix) Error Management; and (x) Anxiety and fear.
Conclusions

The public health sector, in Pakistan and other developing regions, need to invest in the professional development of ODPs and improve resources and structures for surgical procedures, during pandemics and otherwise.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease increases the risk of biochemical recurrence in high-grade metastatic prostate cancer patients
Authors: Cui Jie , zhang Wei , Wang Zhenlong , Chang Yanxiang , Zhang Hongyi
Published: January 2021

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been reported to be helpful to identify high-risk individuals of developing prostate cancer. In the retrospective cohort study, our aim is to investigate the relationship between NAFLD and biochemical recurrence in metastatic prostate cancer patients.
Methods

We retrospectively investigated 602 patients with metastatic prostate cancer receiving androgen deprivation therapy. Liver fat was estimated with liver-to-spleen ratio by CT scans. The relationship between NAFLD and biochemical recurrence was investigated with Cox models. The model for biochemical recurrence was adjusted for multiple variables.
Results

NAFLD was significantly associated with biochemical recurrence in patients with Gleason score ≥ 4 + 3 when adjusting for each of body mass index (hazards ratio [HR] = 1.38; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08–1.77; p = 0.01), visceral adipose tissue (HR = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.07–1.74; p = 0.01), hypertension (HR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.10–1.80; p = 0.01) and diabetes mellitus (HR = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.11–1.82; p = 0.01), using age and prostate-specific antigen level as potential confounder. The 2-year biochemical recurrence rate in Gleason score ≥ 4 + 3 patients with and without NAFLD was 84.0% (100/119) and 72.2% (130/180), respectively (p = 0.018). The median biochemical recurrence free survival of Gleason score ≥ 4 + 3 patients with and without NAFLD were 17 and 21 months, respectively (p = 0.005).
Conclusions

NAFLD is an independent risk factor for biochemical recurrence in patients with high-grade metastatic prostate cancer. If validated in prospective studies, future research should test whether treatment of NAFLD can lead to better prognosis.
Identification of hepatocellular carcinoma risk using a novel prognostic model based on apoptosis-related genes
Authors: Liu Renjie , Wang Guifu , Zhang Chi , Bai Dousheng
Published: January 2021

Background
Dysregulation of the balance between proliferation and apoptosis is the basis in human hepatocarcinogenesis. There is a possible association of apoptosis dysregulation with poor prognosis in many malignant tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the prognostic effect of Apoptosis-related genes (ARGs) on HCC is still unclear.
Methods
A total of 161 ARGs expression levels were analyzed based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database(https://cancergenome.nih.gov/) to screen for differentially expressed ARGs. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms of screened ARGs in HCC. ARGs prognostic values were identified using Cox regression to subsequently establish a prognostic risk model and scoring in patients. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to determine the prognostic value in the model.
Results
Compared to normal specimens, 43 highly upregulated and 8 downregulated ARGs respectively and their normal counterparts in HCC specimens were screened. KEGG analysis demonstrated pathways correlated with these 51 genes which included MAPK, P53, TNF, PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. With Cox regression, 5 prognostic correlated with ARGs (PPP2R5B, SQSTM1, TOP2A, BMF, and LGALS3) were obtained to develop the prognosis model. According to the median of risk scores, patients were categorized into high-risk and low-risk groups. Patients in low-risk groups had a significantly higher two-year or five-year survival probability (p < 0.0001). The risk model had better potency than other clinical characteristics, with the area under the ROC curve (AUC = 0.741). Prognosis of HCC patients was established from a plotted nomogram.
Conclusion
This present study established a novel prognostic risk model for predicting HCC according to the expression of ARGs. The present advancement can potentially contribute to prediction prognosis and individualized treatment of HCC patients.