bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiomyopathy of Friedreich's Disease. Modern Methods of Diagnostic
Authors: Fomicheva E. I. , Myasnikov R. P. , Selivyorstov Y. A. , Illarioshkin S. N. , Dadali E. L. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: March 2021

Friedreich's disease is a hereditary neurodegenerative multiple organ disease, primarily affecting the most energy-dependent tissues (cells of the nervous system, myocardium, pancreas), the lesion of which is characterized by progressive ataxia, dysarthria, dysphagia, oculomotor disorders, loss of deep tendon reflexes, pyramid signs, diabetes mellitus, visual impairment. Friedreich's ataxia is the most common of all hereditary ataxias; nevertheless, this disease is considered orphan. By its pathogenesis, Friedreich's disease is mitochondrial ataxia, caused by a deficiency in the transcription of the FXN gene, leading to a decrease in the synthesis of the frataxin protein. Frataxin is a protein associated with the inner mitochondrial membrane, which in turn is involved in the formation of iron-sulfur clusters, the lack of which leads to a decrease in the production of mitochondrial ATP, an increase in the level of mitochondrial iron and oxidative stress. The basis of the clinical picture of Friedreich's disease is ataxia of a mixed (sensitive and cerebellar) nature. The steady and gradual progression of neurological symptoms significantly affects the quality of life of patients and is most often the leading reason for seeking medical attention. However, the prognosis is primarily due to the involvement of cardiac tissue in the pathological process. The main causes of death in patients with Friedreich's ataxia are severe heart failure and sudden cardiac death due to cardiomyopathy. The overwhelming majority of foreign and domestic publications on Friedreich's ataxia are devoted to the neurological manifestations of this disease, and little attention is paid to this problem in the cardiological scientific and practical society. The purpose of this review is to provide up-to-date information on modern methods of diagnosing myocardial damage at various stages of Friedreich's disease.
Existing problems and new possibilities in the treatment of dyslipidemia Joint Conclusion Based on the Results of the Expert Council
Authors: Ezhov M. V. , Kukharchuk V. V. , Sergienko I. V. , Akhmedzhanov N. M. , Voevoda M. I. , Gurevich V. S. , Kashtalap V. V. , Konstantinov V. O. , Skibitsky V. V. , Shaposhnik I. I.
Published: March 2021

The meeting of the expert council of cardiologists-lipidologists, organized with the support of Novartis and dedicated to the discussion of the existing system of medical care for patients with familial hypercholesterolemia / mixed dyslipidemia, the modern evidence base for lipid-lowering therapy and the practical value of the strategy of early combined lipid-lowering therapy for doctors and these categories of patients was held in Moscow on November 11, 2020.
Transforming Growth Factor β1 and Myocardial Remodeling in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure of Ischemic Genesis
Authors: Zakirova N. E. , Zakirova A. N. , Nizamova D. F.
Published: March 2021

Aim. To study the presence and nature of correlations between the level of transforming growth factor β1 (TFR-β1) and structural and functional parameters of the heart in the development of myocardial remodeling and fibrosis in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) of ischemic origin.

Material and methods. The study included 120 men with class II-IV CHF who have history of myocardial infarction, which are divided into 3 groups depending on the CHF class. The control group included 25 healthy men. Assessment of left ventricular (LV) structural-functional state was carried out by echocardiography. Investigation of TFR-β1 and N-terminal precursor indices of cerebral natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) was performed by enzyme immunoassay.

Results. Patients with class II-IV CHF were hyperexpression of ТФР-β1, the levels of which increased significantly as NYHA class increased and CHF progressed. The most significant structural-geometric rearrangement of LV and hyperactivation ТФР-β1 recorded in patients with class IV CHF (77.2±6.33 ng/ml with class IV CHF versus 46.7±3.74 ng/ml and 58.9±4.75 ng/ml with class II and III CHF; р< 0.05). In patients of class III-IV CHF, correlation relationships between ТФР-β1 level and echocardiographic parameters (LV myocardial mass index are established: r = 0.56, p = 0.05; end systolic volume index: r = 0.52, p = 0.05; value of LV ejection fraction: r = -0.48, p=0,05). Significant direct relationships are established in patients with class III-IV CHF between ТФР-β1 level and NT-rgo BNP levels (r=0,44; р=0,05).

Conclusion. The intensity of myocardial remodeling and fibrosis processes in patients with a progressive course of CHF is related to ТФР-β1 hyperexpression and is associated with a high level of activity of natriuretic peptides.
Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Ischemic Stroke: Risk Factors, Prognosis, Unresolved Problems and Possible Methods of Prevention
Authors: Zykov M. V. , Butsev V. V. , Suleymanov R. R.
Published: March 2021

The present work is devoted to the analysis of modern publications on various aspects of the development and course of ischemic stroke in the presence of acute myocardial infarction. A literature search was conducted on the websites of cardiological and neurological societies, as well as on the PubMed, EMBASE, eLibrary databases using the keywords: myocardial infarction, acute coronary syndrome, stroke, acute cerebrovascular accident, myocardial infarction, acute coronary syndrome, stroke. The authors of this review found that although stroke is a relatively rare complication of myocardial infarction, its prevention is an extremely significant task, since it is associated with high mortality, disability and a significant increase in the cost of treatment. So, it is extremely important to detect thrombosis of the left ventricular cavity in a timely manner, to register preexisting atrial fibrillation that occurs earlier or for the first time, followed by the appointment of anticoagulant therapy. Timely reperfusion treatment, the use of statins and modern dual antithrombotic therapy can reduce the risk of developing cerebrovascular accident in patients with myocardial infarction. It is likely that a decrease in the activity of subclinical inflammation after myocardial infarction will also reduce the risk of stroke, as was recently shown in the COLCOT study. Currently, it remains relevant to search for new knowledge about the risk factors for stroke, which complicated the course of myocardial infarction, which will allow developing more effective and personalized preventive measures in a patient with acute coronary syndrome.
Features of Risk Stratification, Diagnosis and Secondary Prevention in Patients with Multifocal Arterial Disease. Part 1: Risk Stratification and Diagnosis
Authors: Grachev V. G. , Vedenskaya S. S. , Smolenskaya O. G.
Published: March 2021

Multifocal arterial disease is common in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular complications and death. The possibility of improving the prognosis of patients with multifocal arterial disease is associated with a more efficient diagnosis of both the underlying disease and obstructive atherosclerotic lesions of other localizations and with a more intensive secondary prevention. According to observational studies, the presence of significant stenoses of the carotid arteries and, especially, lower extremities arterial disease can be predictorы of similar lesions in other vascular beds and their detection with screening methods available in clinical practice allows improvement of the diagnosis in patients with suspected coronary artery disease. On the other hand, screening of lower extremities artery diseases in patients with acute coronary syndrome can clarify indications for the use of invasive diagnostic and treatment strategy, in patients with chronic coronary artery disease it can justify more aggressive approaches to secondary prevention.
Mean States and Future Projections of Precipitation Over the Monsoon Transitional Zone in China in CMIP5 and CMIP6 Models
Authors: Piao Jinling , Chen Wen , Chen Shangfeng , Gong Hainan , Wang Lin
Published: March 2021

The mean states and future projections of precipitation over the monsoon transitional zone (MTZ) in China are examined based on the historical and climate change projection simulations from phase 5 and phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5 and CMIP6, respectively). Ensemble means of CMIP6 models exhibit a clear improvement in capturing the annual mean and seasonal cycle of the precipitation over the MTZ, both in its spatial pattern and magnitude, compared to the counterparts of CMIP5 models. In addition, both CMIP5&6 models project a significant increase in the annual total precipitation amount and annual precipitation range, but with slightly stronger changes in CMIP6. For the climatological mean precipitation amount, the two versions’ model ensembles show high consistency in the substantial role played by local evaporation in the supply of moisture in both the present-day and future-projection scenarios, with little contribution from the horizontal and vertical advection of moisture. The precipitation amount is projected to increase in all seasons, but with the strongest signals in summer. An analysis of the moisture budget indicates that the increase in summer precipitation is mainly due to evaporation and vertical moisture advection changes in both CMIP5&6 models. However, the change in vertical moisture advection in CMIP5 is primarily attributable to the thermodynamic effects associated with the humidity changes. By contrast, the dynamic effects induced by the atmospheric circulation changes play a dominant role for CMIP6, which is likely related to the stronger warming gradient between the mid–high latitudes and the tropics.
Decompression Effects on Suppurative and Sclerosing Osteomyelitis in the Jaw
Authors: Sodnom-Ish Buyanbileg , Eo Mi Young , Oh Ji Hye , Seo Mi Hyun , Yang Hoon Joo , Lee Jong Ho , Kim Soung Min
Published: March 2021

Background: Osteomyelitis (OM) of the jaw is usually caused by a chronic odontogenic infection. Decompression is the release the intraluminal pressure in the cystic cavity allowing gradual bone growth from the periphery. The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of decompression in an OM jaw model.Methods: A 4-mm-diameter defect was made on mandibles of fourteen Sprague-Dawley rats and inoculated with S. aureus (20 μl of 1x107 CFU/ml) injection. Two weeks later, four groups were made as non-treatment (C1), only curettage (C2), curettage and decompression (E1), and curettage and decompression with normal saline irrigation (E2). After four weeks, each group was analyzed.Results: Most micro-CT parameters of C1 and C2 were significantly lower, and bone mineral density with bone volume was enhanced in E2. E1 and E2 groups in histology showed prominent bone healing with a significantly high number of osteocytes, E2 had the weakest expression of IL-6 compared to that of C1. TNF-α and OPN were expressed strongly in the E1.Conclusion: Decompression drains induced advanced bone healing compared to that of curettage alone in an OM jaw model. Therefore, it could be recommended to use decompressive drain for the enhancement of jaw OM management.
Redesign of an innovative new extrusion system for a printing machine for ceramics
Authors: Mesbahi Jihad EL , Corral Irene Buj , Mesbahi Abdelilah EL
Published: March 2021

Today, the introduction of ceramic materials in the medical field is becoming a vital necessity because of its stable physicochemical characteristics, high biocompatibility, and good osteoconductivity. On the other hand, machining of ceramic components is difficult, owing to their extreme hardness and brittleness. Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies are an appropriate alternative to obtain the complex shapes of implants, which can have porous structures. Thus, since the development of 3D printing, Direct Ink Writing (DIW) is one of the most promising and inexpensive techniques for shaping free-form ceramic medical components such as prostheses or dental implants from liquids or pastes. However, the assurance of performance criteria of the extrusion system for simultaneous usage becomes the major challenge for most Direct Ink Writing (DIW) platforms, for instance for printing large parts, for multi-material printing, to decrease printing time, and to increase efficiency in terms of motor usage and weight of the extruders. To address the current deficiencies, a new extrusion system is redesigned for a 3D printing machine for ceramics that is compatible with different low-cost, open-source 3D printers. The proposed extrusion model enables printing with a loader with different syringes simultaneously, without stopping the operational process while switching the syringe. Pugh concept analysis was used to select the optimum design shape. After that, the 3D CAD environment was used to combine the strength of Pugh’s method and the design space. This brings a new concept into the mechanical design field for 3D printers, which is in line with the technological trends prevalent in industry.
Glycemic Control by Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promotes Effects of Fasting-Mimicking Diet on Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zhao Na , Gao Ying-Feng , Bao Lei , Lei Jing , An Huan-Xiao , Pu Feng-Xing , Cheng Rui-Ping , Chen Ji , Ni Hua , Sui Bing-Dong , Ji Fan-Pu , Hu Cheng-Hu
Published: March 2021

Background Hepatic steatosis is a big hurdle to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D). Fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) has been shown to be an effective intervention in dyslipidemia of T2D. However, fasting might impair the normal glucose metabolism. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) transplantation has been discovered to regulate immune reactions and reduce hyperglycemia in diabetes. However, the effects of UC-MSCs on improving the lipid metabolism disorder are not quite satisfactory. We have investigated the efficacy comparison and interaction between two typical therapies of FMD and UC-MSC infusion, aiming to pave an avenue for their synergistic use, establish effective T2D therapies and explore its mechanism.Methods C57/BL6 mice were fed with high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks to induce a diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse model. Six-week-old leptin-receptor-deficient (db/db) mice were used for follow-up experiments. DIO or db/db mice were divided into 4 groups: PBS, UC-MSCs (1*106), FMD (entails 4-day FMD and 7-day of refeeding (RF)) and UC-MSCs + FMD. At the end of the study period, mice were fasted for 6 h with the measurement of blood glucose and body weight, and then sacrificed. Blood was collected to determine levels of HbA1c, serum insulin, and cytokines. In addition, the fresh liver, skin and white adipose tissue were analyzed by histology.Results FMD restored the lipid metabolism in DIO mice, whereas its capacity to rescue hyperglycemia was uncertain. Infusion of UC-MSCs was effective in T2D glycemic control but the impact on dyslipidemia was insufficient. Furthermore, both the glucose and the lipid alterations of DIO and db/db mice recovered after UC-MSCs combined with FMD. It was proved that UC-MSCs promoted FMD effects on ameliorating hyperglycemia and restoring the lipid metabolism in T2D mice, while FMD had little promotion effect on UC-MSCs. Mechanistically, we discovered that UC-MSC infusion significantly modulated systematic inflammatory microenvironment, which contributed to concerted actions with FMD.Conclusions We established a strategy that combined UC-MSC infusion and FMD were effective in treating T2D, which synergistically attenuated hyperglycemia and improved the lipid metabolism through immunoregulation. The significance of the work is to provide potential approaches for developing novel clinical T2D therapies.
Identification of 3-miRNA Signature for Predicting Prognosis in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Qiu Xinze , Wu Jiangni , Huang Zichen , Luo Shibo , Huang Jiean , Liu Shiquan
Published: March 2021

Background: Vascular invasion is closely related to the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Increasing evidence suggests that miRNAs can serve as biomarks to predict prognosis in various tumors. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop a novel, vascular invasion-related miRNA signature for prediction of HCC prognosis.Methods: Differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) between HCC samples with vascular invasion and without vascular invasion were obtained from GSE67140. MiRNAs expression profiles and clinical information for 344 patients were collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas database, and the patients were randomized (1:1) to training set and validation set. LASSO regression model was employed to identify survival-associated DEMs and establish risk score in the training set. Moreover, risk score was verified in the validation set. And nomogram based on risk score and clinical information was constructed to improve the prediction of prognosis. Meanwhile, four online tools were used to predict target genes and enrichment analysis was utilized to explore the biological pathway of the miRNAs.Results: A novel three-miRNA signature was screened including hsa-mir-210, hsa-mir-149 and hsa-mir-99a, and risk score was established for HCC prognosis prediction. Patients were divided into the low-risk group and high-risk group according to risk score. High-risk group both have higher hazard of death compared with low-risk group in training set and validation set. And the 5-year AUC of risk score were 0.718, 0.674 and 0.697 in training set, validation set and the total set, respectively. The C-index of nomogram was 0.724, and calibration curves showed nomogram had high concordance to predict 1- ,3- , and 5-year survival rates among HCC patients. Furthermore, enrichment analysis identified several tumor-associated pathways including Ras signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and MAPK signaling pathway and so on, which may contribute to explain the potential molecular mechanisms of above miRNAs.Conclusion: This study developed a risk assessment model based on three miRNAs, which could accurately predict the prognosis of HCC.
Efficacy and safety of Azithromycin and Amoxicillin/clavulanate for otitis media in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Tesfai Gabriel , Abay Solomon , Makonnen Eyasu
Published: March 2021

BackgroundResistance, prolonged therapy and more adverse reactions made amoxicillin less preferred for treating otitis media. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of azithromycin and amoxicillin/clavulanate for treatment of otitis media in children.MethodologyThis study was a systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed, Cochrane library and Google scholar databases were searched. Comparative RCT studies between azithromycin and amoxicillin/clavulanate to treat otitis media in children published up to 30 September 2019 were included. Risk of bias was assessed and Data was extracted by the first author and checked by second author. Meta-analysis was performed by STATA software version 16, and Mantel-Haenszel statistical method with effect measure odds ratio was employed for analysis.Result751 records were identified and 14 studies were eligible for analysis. In 12 studies azithromycin had equivalent clinical efficacy and 2 had less to amoxicillin/clavulanate. Meta-analysis results showed small statistical difference on efficacy in favor of amoxicillin/clavulanate after completion of treatment OR 0.75, 95% CI (0.62–0.91). On subgroup analysis for children less than 2 year (OR 0.96 95% CI (0.49–2.29), and greater than 2 year (OR 1.40 95% CI (0.93–2.11) and also efficacy on follow up (OR 0.97 95% CI (0.83–1.15) there is no statistical significant difference. The clinical adverse events are more in amoxicillin/clavulanate group than in azithromycin with statistical significant difference OR 0.46 95% CI (0.43–0.56).ConclusionAzithromycin is not inferior to amoxicillin/clavulanate to treat otitis media in children, and it is safer and more tolerable.
Simulation-based Machine Learning for Optoelectronic Device Design: Perspectives, Problems, and Prospects
Authors: Piprek Joachim
Published: March 2021

Numerical simulation and machine learning represent opposite approaches to computational analysis of the real world, deductive vs. inductive. However, both methods suffer from various uncertainties and even their combination often fails to link theory and reality. Focusing on GaN-based light-emitting diode (LED) design optimization, this paper evaluates examples of simulation-based machine learning from a physics point of view. Strategies are suggested for achieving more realistic predictions.
Age-appropriate vaccination coverage and its determinants in children aged 12-36 months in Nepal: a national and subnational assessment
Authors: Rauniyar Santosh Kumar , Iwaki Yoko , Yoneoka Daisuke , Hashizume Masahiro , Nomura Shuhei
Published: March 2021

Background Vaccination is one of the effective ways to develop immunity against potential life-threatening diseases in children in early age. This study is focused on analysing the age-appropriate vaccination coverage at national and subnational levels and identify the factors associated with age-appropriate coverage in Nepal.Methods 460 children aged 12-36 months were included in the study. The data was obtained from Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2016-17. Age-appropriate coverage of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccine (BCG), oral polio vaccine (OPV) doses 1-3, pentavalent vaccine (PE) doses 1-3, and first dose of measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR) were estimated using Kaplan Meier method. Multilevel logistic regression with random intercept was used to identify the factors associated with age-appropriate vaccination. Results The crude coverage of the vaccines included in the study ranged from 91.5% (95% CI, 88.5-93.7) for PE3 to 97.8% (95.8-98.7) for BCG. Although the crude coverage of all the vaccines was above 90%, the age-appropriate coverage was significantly low, ranging from 41.5% (36.5-46.6) for PE3 to 73.9 % (69.2-78.1) for PE1. Furthermore, high disparity in timely vaccination coverage was observed at regional level. Compared to the age-appropriate vaccination coverage in other provinces, Province 2 had the lowest coverage of all, followed by that in Province 6. The timeliness of vaccination was significantly associated with subnational regions i.e., provinces and the season of childbirth.Conclusion Although the immunization program in Nepal has achieved the target of 90% crude coverage of all the childhood vaccines, the age-appropriate coverage is significantly low which undermines the effectiveness of the vaccines administered. Thus, along with crude coverage, timeliness of the vaccines administered should be taken into consideration and thoroughly monitored at national and subnational levels. Provincial government should formulate tailored strategies to ensure the timely administration of the childhood vaccines.
WD40 Repeat 43 Mediates Cell Survival, Proliferation, Migration and Invasion via Vimentin in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Zijian , Feng Min , Zhang Jie , Wang Xingzhou , Xu En , Wang Chao , Lin Fengcen , Yang Zhi , Yu Heng , Guan Wenxian , Wang Hao
Published: March 2021

BackgroundWD40 repeat (WDR)43 is an RNA-binding protein that belongs to the WDR domain protein family. Its biological function is largely unclear, particularly in colorectal cancer (CRC). MethodsIn the present study, we searched the TCGA database and found the correlation between WDR43 and CRC. Subsequently,the high expression of WDR43 in human clinical samples of CRC was validated and we further examined the biological functions of it in CRC cells.Finally,we explored potential downstream proteins or pathways and established subcutaneous xenograft model to verify our findings.ResultsImmunohistochemistry of 16 patient specimens confirmed that the expression of WDR43 was elevated in CRC. WDR43 knockdown was shown to increase apoptosis and inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells in vitro and reduce tumorigenesis in animal models.In addition, it was found that WDR43 knockdown inhibited vimentin (VIM) expression in CRC cells and overexpression of VIM can partially reverse the effects of WDR43 both in vitro and in vivo. ConclusionIn conclusion, the role of WDR43 in the occurrence and development of CRC was investigated in the present study. WDR43 may serve as a valuable biomarker and provide new options for the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer.
Anatomical Identification of Ischial Spines Applicable to Intrapartum Transperineal Ultrasound Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Pregnant Women
Authors: Yano Eriko , Iriyama Takayuki , Hanaoka Shouhei , Sayama Seisuke , Ichinose Mari , Toshimitsu Masatake , Seyama Takahiro , Sone Kenbun , Kumasawa Keiichi , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Kobayashi Koichi , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka
Published: March 2021

Intrapartum transperineal ultrasound (ITU) is considered useful in judging fetal head descent; however, the inability to detect ischial spines on ITU has been a drawback to its legitimacy. The current study aimed to determine the anatomical location of ischial spines, which can be directly applied to ITU. Based on magnetic resonance imaging of 67 pregnant women at 33+ 2 [31+ 6-34+ 0] weeks gestation (median [interquartile range: IQR]), we calculated the angle between the pubic symphysis and the midpoint of ischial spines (midline symphysis-ischial spine angle; mSIA), which is theoretically equivalent to the angle of progression at fetal head station 0 on ITU, by determining spatial coordinates of pelvic landmarks and utilizing spatial vector analysis. Furthermore, we measured symphysis-ischial spine distance (SID), defined as the distance between the vertical plane passing the lower edge of the pubic symphysis and the plane that passes the ischial spines. As a result, mSIA was 109.6 ° [105.1–114.0] and SID 26.4 mm [19.8–30.7] (median, [IQR]). There was no correlation between mSIA or SID and maternal characteristics, including physique. Our results provide valuable evidence to enhance the reliability of ITU in assessing fetal head descent by considering the location of ischial spines.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Research on Rubber Flexible-Die Forming Limitation with New Position-Limited Back Pressure Mechanism
Authors: Han Zhi-ren , Wei Chuang , Du Si-min , Jia Zhen , Du Xin-yang
Published: March 2021

The forming limitation and the wall thickness distribution are two main parameters for estimating the forming quality of T-shaped tube. In this paper, the effects of three key factors on the forming limitation and the wall thickness distribution are investigated, which are punch front distance l1, reverse height h1 and matching relationship between rubber hardness and axial feed Δl. A new position-limited back pressure mechanism is proposed which is made up of rigid position-limited lever, flexible back pressure medium and rigid spacer. The simulations and experiments are carried out. Both results show the thinning rate of the wall thickness decreases first and then increases and the thickening rate decreases gradually with the increase of l1. The branch reaches the highest with the l1 of 5mm under the requirements of thinning rate and thickening rate. With the increase of reverse height h1, the bigger h1 is beneficial to the wall thickness thinning suppress at the top of branch, the highest branch was formed when h1 is 7mm. When Δl is fixed, the rubber hardness has a great influence on the forming defects, higher rubber hardness causes the top of branch to rupture and lower causes the wall to wrinkle. When rubber hardness is fixed, the thickening rate decreases with the increase of Δl. The best forming limitation and thickness distribution are achieved with the punch front distance l1 of 5mm, the reverse height h1 of 7mm, the rubber hardness of 70HA and the axial feed Δl of 24mm.
Virtualized Clinical Studies to Assess the Natural History and Impact of Gut Microbiome Modulation in Non-Hospitalized Patients with Mild to Moderate COVID-19 a Randomized, Open-Label, Prospective Study with a Parallel Group Study Evaluating the Physiologic Effects of KB109 on Gut Microbiota Structure and Function: A Structured Summary of a Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Haran John P , Pinero Jose C , Zheng Yan , Alonzo-Palma Norma , Wingertzahn Mark
Published: March 2021

Objectives These 2 parallel studies (K031 and K032) aim to evaluate the safety of KB109 in addition to supportive self-care (SSC) compared with SSC alone in outpatients with mild to moderate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). KB109 is a novel synthetic glycan that was formulated to modulate the gut microbiome composition and metabolic output in order to increase beneficial short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production in the gut. The K031 study is designed to evaluate the safety of KB109 and characterize its impact on the natural progression of COVID-19 in patients with mild to moderate disease. The K032 study is evaluating the effect of KB109 on the gut microbiota structure and function in this same patient population. Additionally, both studies are evaluating measures of health care utilization, quality of life (QOL), laboratory indices, biomarkers of inflammation, and serological measures of immunity in patients who received SSC alone or with KB109. Noteworthy aspects of these outpatient studies include study design measures aimed at limiting in-person interactions to minimize the risk of infection spread, such as use of online diaries, telemedicine, and at-home sample collection.
Increases in Adipose Tissue and Muscle Function are Longitudinally Associated with Better Quality of Life in Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Authors: Kenkhuis Marlou-Floor , Roekel Eline H. Van , Koole Janna L. , Breedveld-Peters José J.L. , Breukink Stephanie O. , Janssen-Heijnen Maryska L.G. , Keulen Eric T.P. , Duijnhoven Fränzel J.B. van , Mols Floortje , Weijenberg Matty P. , Bours Martijn J.L.
Published: March 2021

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors need evidence-based guidelines pertaining to post-treatment body composition, which could benefit health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We aimed to describe the course of several body composition measures, and to assess longitudinal associations of these measures with HRQoL, fatigue and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Methods: In a prospective cohort among stage I-III CRC survivors (n=459), five repeated home visits from diagnosis up to 24 months post-treatment were executed. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and fat percentage were assessed as measures of adiposity, and muscle arm circumference and handgrip strength as measures of muscle mass and function. We applied linear mixed-models to describe changes in body composition over time and to analyze overall longitudinal associations.Results: Of included participants, 44% was overweight and 31% was obese at diagnosis. All body composition measures followed similar trends, decreasing from diagnosis to 6 weeks and then increasing up to 24 months post-treatment. In confounder-adjusted mixed models, increases in adipose tissue and muscle function were longitudinally associated with better HRQoL and less fatigue, regardless of pre-treatment body composition.Discussion: With regards to improving HRQoL, decreasing fatigue and CIPN, clinical practice should also focus on restoring body tissues after CRC treatment.
Flood Hydrograph Coincidence Analysis of the Upper Yangtze River and Dongting Lake, China
Authors: Zhang Chao , Ji Changming , Wang Yi , Xiao Qian
Published: March 2021

In hydrological research, flood events can be analyzed by flood hydrograph coincidence. Existing flood hydrograph coincidence research mostly focuses on the analysis of the coincidence risk probability of the annual maximum flood event using the 15-day maximum annual flood volume; the actual duration of the flood hydrograph is neglected. The duration of the flood hydrograph is a key variable in (1) determining whether flood hydrograph coincidence occurs, and (2) accurately calculating the flood hydrograph coincidence risk probability. This paper creatively proposes a novel method to analyze the flood hydrograph coincidence risk probability by establishing a five-dimensional joint distribution of flood volumes, durations and interval time for two hydrologic stations. More specifically, using the annual maximum flood of the upper Yangtze River and input from Dongting Lake as an example, the Pearson Type III and the mixed von Mises distributions were used to establish the marginal distribution of flood volumes, flood duration and interval time. Subsequently, the five-dimensional joint distribution based on vine copula was established to analyze the flood hydrograph coincidence risk probability. The results were verified by comparison with a historical flood sequence. The flood hydrograph coincidence volume-risk probability curve was also obtained, providing theoretical support for flood control safety and risk management in the middle and lower Yangtze River. This study also demonstrates the significant beneficial role of regulation by the Three Gorges Water Conservancy Project in mitigating flood risk of the Yangtze River.
Dissolved silica-catalyzed disordered dolomite precipitation
Authors: Fang Yihang , Xu Huifang
Published: March 2021

There is a great abundance of sedimentary dolomite in the Proterozoic and Lower Paleozoic, but examples of primary dolomite are scarce in the Cenozoic. This discrepancy suggests a poorly understood but dramatic shift in the geochemical system that inhibited dolomite formation. Previous research on microbial-mediated dolomite formation demonstrated that microbial activity could promote disordered dolomite precipitation through the catalytic role of polysaccharides. However, the microbial-mediated model cannot explain some of the Precambrian dolomite for which there is no evidence of microbial origin. Here, we present an abiotic mechanism with dissolved silica catalyzed dolomite precipitation that provides new insight into this long-lasting “dolomite problem.” In this study, we demonstrate that the presence of 1–2 mM of aqueous Si(OH)4 in high Mg:Ca ratio solutions at room temperature will promote disordered dolomite precipitation (with up to 48.7 mol% MgCO3) and inhibit aragonite formation. Dissolved silica in solution also promotes Mg incorporation into the Ca-Mg carbonates. Dissolved silica possesses low-dipole moment and dielectric constant similar to hydrogen sulfide, dioxane, polysaccharide, and exopolymeric substances (EPS), which are catalysts in previously established room-temperature dolomite synthesis. The molecules with low-dipole moment adsorbed on the dolomite surface can lower the dehydration energy barrier of a surface Mg2+-water complex and promote dolomite nucleation and growth. This study provides a new model for abiotic sedimentary dolomite formation, which is likely to be responsible for the significant amount of primary dolomite in Earth history.
Element mobility and oxygen isotope systematics during submarine alteration of basaltic glass
Authors: He Miaohong , Zhang Shudi , Zhang Le , Yang Fan , Zhang Yanqiang , Huang Xiaolong , Wei Gangjian
Published: March 2021

Studies of the submarine alteration of basaltic glass may improve the understanding of crust-seawater interactions and the oceanic elemental cycle. Natural alteration processes such as the palagonitization of basaltic glass are complex, and their elucidation is crucial to the understanding of fluid-rock interactions. This study involves major and trace element and isotope mapping of a submarine-altered basaltic glass grain and reveals sequential development of alteration textures toward the grain core through the transition between unaltered glass and palagonite. The conversion from basaltic glass to palagonite in a low-temperature submarine environment results in enrichment in B, Rb, K, Li, H2O, U, Nb, Th, Ti, Cu, Ta, Zr, Hf, Ni, Sc, Fe, Cr, Pb, and Zn; and depletion in Si, Mg, Al, Sr, Na, Co, rare-earth elements, Ca, P, and V (in order of decreasing distribution coefficient). The glass-palagonite interface region has the highest high field strength element (HFSE) and Fe-Ti contents but the lowest Mg content, indicating that the Fe-Ti phases that host HFSE were precipitated first during initial palagonitization. At the same time, an inferred exchange of oxygen occurred, based on variation in δ18O, with values increasing from basaltic glass to palagonite. However, initial palagonite compositions were affected by subsequent precipitation and/or incorporation/adsorption of additional compounds such as Mg(OH)2 scavenged from pore water.
The study of Cu/Fe-doped Al-MCM-41 to degrade Rhodamine B
Authors: Li Shunyi , Wang Shaohua , Chen Qiang , Jiang Suyu , Sun Shaohui
Published: March 2021

Textile wastewater has been recognized as one of the most difficult to treat environmental problems. Aiming to acquire an excellent treatment effect that could meet the stringent discharge regulations, a series of Cu- and Fe-doped Al-MCM-41 heterogeneous Fenton catalysts with different metal contents (1.21–3.45 wt%) were successfully synthesized by co-precipitation method to degrade Rhodamine B. Their physicochemical properties were analysed by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nitrogen physisorption and scanning electron microscopy. The incorporation of metal did not alter MCM-41's mesostructure, but increasing the contents of metal would decrease the order of MCM-41s’ structure. The effects of temperature, pH, H2O2 dosage, dye concentration and the dosage of catalysts on Rhodamine B degradation were also investigated. It was found that M2 with 2.71 wt% of active metals performed best on Rhodamine B degradation. For the high concentration of Rhodamine B (400 mg/L), the decolorization efficiency could reach 96.0% using only 40 mM H2O2 within 50 min at 60 °C. Further adding 40 mM of H2O2, the chemical oxygen demand removal reached 75.1% after 100 min. M2 showed excellent stability and could be reused at least three times without any obvious deterioration in catalytic activity. M2 fitted well with the Freundlich isotherms and the first-order rate model.
Recent Advances in Natural Products with Antiviral Activities
Authors: Sun Zhi-Gang , Li Zhi-Na , Miao Xiang-Wan , Li Shuang , Zhu Hai-Liang
Published: March 2021

Virus is a type of noncellular organism, which is simple in structure, small in size and contains
only one kind of nucleic acid (RNA or DNA). It must be parasitized in living cells and proliferates
by replication. Viruses can infect plants or animals, which leads to many epidemic diseases, such
as the current pandemic COVID-19. Viral infectious diseases have brought serious threats to the
health of people around the world. Natural products are chemical substances that are usually produced
by living organisms and have biological or pharmacological activity. Many of these natural products
show antiviral activity. Based on the increasing importance of antiviral research, this paper focuses on
the discovery and development of antiviral natural products since 2010.
Exploration of Potent Multi-target-directed-ligands as Anti-alzheimer’s
Disease Agents: A Moiety Based Review
Authors: Teli Pankaj , Sahiba Nusrat , Soni Jay , Sethiya Ayushi , Agarwal Dinesh Kumar , Agarwal Shikha
Published: March 2021

Dementia is a chronic neurodegenerative disease, and a maximum number of the cases are
directly related to Alzheimer’s disease. More than 4 million people are living with Alzheimer’s
disease-related dementia in India, making it a national crisis. Alzheimer’s disease deteriorates
cognitive functions with the passage of time and consists of multi-faceted factors, such as the decline
of acetylcholine level, amyloid β-aggregation, tau hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, etc. The
classical drugs used to date, are focused on only one target and are not serving the cause properly.
Hence, the community of scientists is rigorously working on multi-target-directed agents that
incorporate two or more active scaffolds in one compound or hybrid of active moieties. This article
aims to evaluate novel potential compounds and moieties, such as quinolines, chalcones, coumarins,
chromenes, piperazine, carbazoles, cinnamic acids, tacrine hybrids, donepezil hybrids, etc., that have
been introduced as multi-target-directed agents in the recent five years.
Acceptance of Telerheumatology by Rheumatologists and General Practitioners in Germany: Nationwide Cross-sectional Survey Study
Authors: Muehlensiepen Felix , Knitza Johannes , Marquardt Wenke , Engler Jennifer , Hueber Axel , Welcker Martin
Published: March 2021

Background

The worldwide burden of musculoskeletal diseases is increasing. The number of newly registered rheumatologists has stagnated. Primary care, which takes up a key role in early detection of rheumatic disease, is working at full capacity. COVID-19 and its containment impede rheumatological treatment. Telemedicine in rheumatology (telerheumatology) could support rheumatologists and general practitioners.

Objective

The goal of this study was to investigate acceptance and preferences related to the use of telerheumatology care among German rheumatologists and general practitioners.

Methods

A nationwide, cross-sectional, self-completed, paper-based survey on telerheumatology care was conducted among outpatient rheumatologists and general practitioners during the pre-COVID-19 period.

Results

A total of 73.3% (349/476) of survey participants rated their knowledge of telemedicine as unsatisfactory, poor, or very poor. The majority of survey participants (358/480, 74.6%) answered that they do not currently use telemedicine, although 62.3% (291/467) would like to. Barriers to the implementation of telemedicine include the purchase of technology equipment (182/292, 62.3%), administration (181/292, 62.0%), and poor reimbursement (156/292, 53.4%). A total of 69.6% (117/168) of the surveyed physicians reckoned that telemedicine could be used in rheumatology. Surveyed physicians would prefer to use telemedicine to communicate directly with other physicians (370/455, 81.3%) than to communicate with patients (213/455, 46.8%). Among treatment phases, 64.4% (291/452) of participants would choose to use telemedicine during follow-up. Half of the participants would choose telecounseling as a specific approach to improve rheumatology care (91/170, 53.5%).

Conclusions

Before COVID-19 appeared, our results indicated generally low use but high acceptance of the implementation of telerheumatology among physicians. Participants indicated that the lack of a structural framework was a barrier to the effective implementation of telerheumatology. Training courses should be introduced to address the limited knowledge on the part of physicians in the use of telemedicine. More research into telerheumatology is required. This includes large-scale randomized controlled trials, economic analyses, and the exploration of user preferences.
The Effect of Noise-Masking Earbuds (SleepBuds) on Reported Sleep Quality and Tension in Health Care Shift Workers: Prospective Single-Subject Design Study (Preprint)
Authors: Duggan Nicole M , Hasdianda M Adrian , Baker Olesya , Jambaulikar Guruprasad , Goldsmith Andrew J , Condella Anna , Azizoddin Desiree , Landry Adaira I , Boyer Edward W , Eyre Andrew J
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Shift work is associated with sleep disorders, which impair alertness and increase risk of chronic physical and mental health disease. In health care workers, shift work and its associated sleep loss decrease provider wellness and can compromise patient care. Pharmacological sleep aids or substances such as alcohol are often used to improve sleep with variable effects on health and well-being.

OBJECTIVE

We tested whether use of noise-masking earbuds can improve reported sleep quality, sleepiness, and stress level in health care shift workers, and increase alertness and reaction time post night shift.

METHODS

Emergency medicine resident physicians were recruited for a prospective, single-subject design study. Entrance surveys on current sleep habits were completed. For 14 days, participants completed daily surveys reporting sleep aid use and self-rated perceived sleepiness, tension level, and last nights’ sleep quality using an 8-point Likert scale. After overnight shifts, 3-minute psychomotor vigilance tests (PVT) measuring reaction time were completed. At the end of 14 days, participants were provided noise-masking earbuds, which they used in addition to their baseline sleep regimens as they were needed for sleep for the remainder of the study period. Daily sleep surveys, post–overnight shift PVT, and earbud use data were collected for an additional 14 days. A linear mixed effects regression model was used to assess changes in the pre- and postintervention outcomes with participants serving as their own controls.

RESULTS

In total, 36 residents were recruited, of whom 26 participants who completed daily sleep surveys and used earbuds at least once during the study period were included in the final analysis. The median number of days of earbud use was 5 (IQR 2-9) days of the available 14 days. On days when residents reported earbud use, previous nights’ sleep quality increased by 0.5 points (P<.001, 95% CI 0.23-0.80), daily sleepiness decreased by 0.6 points (P<.001, 95% CI –0.90 to –0.34), and total daily tension decreased by 0.6 points (P<.001, 95% CI –0.81 to –0.32). These effects were more pronounced in participants who reported worse-than-average preintervention sleep scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Nonpharmacological noise-masking interventions such as earbuds may improve daily sleepiness, tension, and perceived sleep quality in health care shift workers. Larger-scale studies are needed to determine this interventions’ effect on other populations of shift workers’ post–night shift alertness, users’ long-term physical and mental health, and patient outcomes.
Collaborative Strategy for the Supply Chain of Rice: A Case Study on Demak and Sukoharjo Regency, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Guritno Adi Djoko , Kristanti Novita Erma , Tanuputri Megita Ryanjani
Published: March 2021

The problems associated with rice production in Indonesia appear very complicated, due to poor management of the sufficient national rice stock and various unfavorable public policies. Recently, government’s directives on rice importation instigated polemics from several interests, as a result of inappropriate decisions on general rice production, with possible yearly increment. Therefore, there is need to embrace strategy development to balance demand and supply. The purpose of this study was to analyze the rice supply chain in Demak and Sukoharjo, Central Java Province, in an effort to provide effective and collaborative distribution policies at individual levels. In addition, in-depth interviews were conducted for 98 respondents in a bid to acquire relevant and current information for the conceptual framework development. Furthermore, sampling methodologies, termed purposive and snowballing, were applied, followed by the preparation of interview guidelines. The results showed the farmers obtained the lowest revenue margin among other tiers, while several technical challenges were also identified. Consequently, the activities of middlemen with excessive dominant roles in market price determination, were overemphasized, leading to an inefficient supply chain. Meanwhile, government’s position through the Indonesia Logistics Bureau (BULOG) is assumed to be vulnerable in the control of direct supply from farmers or collectors. Based on this study, intense comprehension of rice supply chain was achieved, with further provision of collaborative strategies towards promoting the balance of demand and supply.