bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex species on apoptosis and necroptosis state of macrophages derived from active pulmonary tuberculosis patients
Authors: Yanti Budi , Mulyadi Mulyadi , Amin Muhammad , Harapan Harapan , Mertaniasih Ni Made , Soetjipto Soetjipto
Published: July 2020

Objective: The role of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) species in tuberculosis (TB) infection in human is still questioned. The aim of this study was to determine whether M. tuberculosis and M. bovis is associated with apoptosis and necroptosis by measuring the expression of specific signaling pathways components (Fas-associated protein with death domain (FADD) and receptor interacting protein 3 (RIP3)), and the level of apoptosis.Results: We recruited 30 patients of pulmonary TB; 24 patients were infected with M. tuberculosis Beijing strain and six patients with M. bovis BCG strain. M. tuberculosis-infected patients were more likely to have severe lung damage compared to those infected with M. bovis (odds ratio [OR]: 7.60; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-54.09). M. tuberculosis infection was associated with lower expression of FADD and lower apoptosis level of macrophages compared to M. bovis. No significant different of RIP3 between MTBC species groups. In conclusion, M. tuberculosis Beijing strain was associated with severe pulmonary damage, inhibited FADD expression and reduced apoptosis level of macrophages derived from TB. This suggests that the M. tuberculosis Beijing strain is potentially to be used as determinant of disease progressivity and tissue damage in TB cases.
Anti-proliferative activities of Byrsocarpus coccineus Schum. and Thonn. (Connaraceae) using Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ukwade Caroline E. , Ebuehi Osaretin Albert Taiwo , Adisa Rahmat A. , Singh Santosh K. , Singh Rajesh
Published: July 2020

Background: Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is one of the most lethal tumors of gynecologic malignancies, due to lack of early detection, and a high rate of metastasis. The standard treatment for OvCa is surgery and cytotoxic chemotherapy. However, to overcome the high cost and side effects of these treatments, medicinal plants are widely used in developing countries to treat OvCa. Byrsocarpus coccineus plant preparation has been administered to patients traditionally in the management of tumors in Nigeria. In this study, we investigated the anti-proliferative effects of B. coccineus ethanol leaf extract against OVCAR-3 and SW 626 OvCa cell lines. After the treatment of the two cell lines with the extracts, analyses were carried out to determine inhibition of proliferation and expression of cell cycle markers, pro-apoptotic, and anti-apoptotic markers. Results: Results showed that B. coccineus ethanol leaf extract, significantly inhibited cell migration and colony formation in OVCAR-3 and SW 626 treated cells in a dose-dependent manner. Results also show that B. coccineus ethanol leaf extract modulated the expression of tumor suppressor gene (p53), cell cycle progression, pro- and anti-apoptotic gene, and the pro-inflammatory cytokines. Conclusions: These results suggest that B. coccineus have anti-proliferative properties and could induce apoptosis. Further investigation will be carried out to isolate bioactive compounds for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Genetic diversity analysis of a Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) global collection
Authors: Hoque Ahasanul , Fiedler Jason D. , Rahman Mukhlesur
Published: July 2020

Background

A sustainable breeding program requires a minimum level of germplasm diversity to provide varied options for the selection of new breeding lines. To maximize genetic gain of the North Dakota State University (NDSU) flax breeding program, we aimed to increase the genetic diversity of its parental stocks by incorporating diverse genotypes. For this purpose, we analyzed the genetic diversity, linkage disequilibrium, and population sub-structure of 350 globally-distributed flax genotypes with 6,200 SNP markers

Results

All the genotypes tested clustered into seven sub-populations (P1 to P7) based on the admixture model and the output of neighbor-joining (NJ) tree analysis and principal coordinate analysis were in line with that of structure analysis. The largest sub-population separation arose from a cluster of NDSU/American genotypes with Turkish and Asian genotypes. All sub-populations showed moderate genetic diversity (average H = 0.22 and I = 0.34). The pairwise F st comparison revealed a great degree of divergence ( F st > 0.25) between most of the combinations. A whole collection mantel test showed significant positive correlation (r = 0.30 and p < 0.01) between genetic and geographic distances, whereas it was non-significant for all sub-populations except P4 and P5 (r= 0.251, 0.349 respectively and p < 0.05). In the entire collection, the mean linkage disequilibrium was 0.03 and it decayed to its half maximum within < 21 kb distance.

Conclusions

To maximize genetic gain, hybridization between NDSU stock (P5) and Asian individuals (P6) are potentially the best option as genetic differentiation between them is highest ( F st > 0.50). In contrast, low genetic differentiation between P5 and P2 may enhance the accumulation of favorable alleles for oil and fiber upon crossing to develop dual purpose varieties. As each sub-population consists of many genotypes, a Neighbor-Joining tree assists to identify distantly related genotypes. These results also inform genotyping decisions for future association mapping studies to ensure the identification of a sufficient number of molecular markers to tag all linkage blocks.
WISP2 promotes cell proliferation via targeting ERK and YAP in ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Shi Zi-Qing , Chen Zi-Yan , Han Yao , Zhu Heng-Yan , Lyu Meng-Dan , Zhang Han , zhang Yi , Yang Liu-Qing , PAN WEI-WEI
Published: July 2020

Background: Wnt-inducible signaling pathway protein 2 (WISP2) is a wnt1-induced signaling pathway protein 2. Although studies indicate that WISP2 may promote the development of various tumors, its role in ovarian cancer remains unclear. The objective of the current study was to analyze the effects of WISP2 on the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells in vitro and in vivo.Results: Immunohistochemistry and western blotting indicated that WISP2 was highly expressed in various ovarian cancer tissues and cell lines，but weakly expressed in normal ovary tissue. WISP2 deletion inhibited cell growth, clone formation, and migration of ovarian cancer cells while promoting cell apoptosis and affecting the cell cycle. This growth inhibitory effect caused by WISP2 loss is due to the inhibition of phosphorylated extracellular signal-related kinase (p-ERK)1/2, as well as CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (CEBPα) and CEPBβ. In addition, WISP2 deletion also activated the Yes-associated protein (YAP).Conclusion: WISP2 deletion inhibits ovarian cancer cell proliferation by affecting ERK signaling pathways.
Network Analysis, and Experimental Validation to Uncover the Mechanism of the Four Compounds in Artemisia annua (Qing Hao) Antimalarial
Authors: Zhao Yuping , Zhang Xiaobo , Xu Haiyu , Wang Ling , Huang Luqi
Published: July 2020

Background: Artemisinin is widely used to anti malaria, but the antimalaria mechanism and coordinative interaction of Artemisinin, Scopoletin, Arteannuin B and Artemisic acid are not clear.Methods: Based on the existing of antimalarial drugs, the antimalaria targets of Artemisinin, Scopoletin, Arteannuin B and Artemisic acid were explored by molecular docking with the similarity theory of chemical structure, and then the antimalaria mechanism of Scopoletin and its coordinative antimalaria interaction of the mixture with the three other ingredients.Results: Then through using the text information excavation’s method, the relevance proteins of antimalaria effect of Artemisinin were IL-6, ACHE, PC3, IPOB, CYC, TNF-α, UGT1A9, CASP3, XDH, IL-1β, VEGF, CAT, CREB, AMPK, UGT1A6, ADR, MAPK, COX2, LB24AB and CYP450. Meanwhile, the relevance proteins of Scopoletin were TNF-α, PI3K, IL-8, IL- 6, VEGF, IL-1β, MAPK, CD4, SP2, CTNNB, CASP3, PRO1400, IgE, IL-4, ICAM1, p38, STAT3, TLR4 and API4. But Arteannuin B and Artemisic acid had a little relevance with the above proteins. The interaction characteristic between TNF-α and Artemisia annua was the effect of the mixture of Artemisinin, Scopoletin, Arteannuin B and Artemisic acid was greater than Artemisinin, and the synergistic effect of the four elements was found in the progress of antimalaria.Conclusion: Antimalarial target of Artemisia annua ingredients was explored with data mining methods, and the antimalarial effect of Scopoletin may be related to TNF. Combined application of the four elements could achieve the same antimalarial effect and reduce the clinical usage of Artemisinin and Scopoletin.
Effect of AIDS-defining events at initiation of antiretroviral therapy on long-term mortality of HIV/AIDS patients in Southwestern China: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Yunxuan , Zhou Oulu , Zheng Zhigang , Xu Yuexiang , Shao Yi , Qin Chunwei , Qin Fengxiang , Lai Jingzhen , Liu Huifang , Chen Rongfeng , Ye Li , Liang Hao , Qin Xionglin , Jiang Junjun
Published: July 2020

Objective: To evaluate the impact of AIDS-defining events (ADE) on long-term mortality of HIV positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART), a retrospective HIV/AIDS treatment cohort study performed in Southwestern China.

Methods: The retrospective cohort was conducted among 6757 HIV/AIDS patients on ART (2NRTIs+1NNRTI, 2NRTIs+1PI and Single or two drugs) recruited in Guigang city, Guangxi, China, from January 2004 to December 2018. Participants were divided into ADE and non-ADE groups, and were followed-up every six months to observe treatment outcomes. Comparison of mortality between groups was performed using the log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier analysis. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to explore the risk factors of mortality. 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance confounding factors and adjust the mortality risk.

Results: Of 6,757 participants with 29,096.06 person-years of follow-up, 16.86% (1,139/6,757) belonged to ADE group while the others (83.14%) belonged to the non-ADE group. The most common cause of death by ADE was disseminated mycosis (31.65%), followed by recurrent severe bacterial pneumonia (28.48%), herpes zoster (17.72%), and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (8.86%). The mortality of the ADE group was significantly higher than that of the non-ADE group [3.45/100 person-years (95% CI: 2.92-3.97) vs. 2.34/100 person-years (95%CI: 2.15-2.52), P＜0.001]. The death risk of the ADE group was also higher than that of the non- ADE group [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) =1.291, 95% CI: 1.061-1.571, P=0.011], which was confirmed by PSM analysis (aHR=1.581, 95% CI: 1.192-2.099, P=0.002). Cox analysis indicated that ADE, older age, male gender, previous non-use of cotrimoxazole, advanced WHO clinical stage, and low baseline CD4+ cell count were the risk factors for death.

Conclusions: Even on ART, the mortality risk of HIV positive individuals with ADE was higher than those without ADE. Active testing, earlier diagnosis, and timely therapy with ART may reduce the death risk of ADE.
The thermochemical non-equilibrium scale effects of the high enthalpy nozzle
Authors: Shen Junmou , Lu Hongbo , Li Ruiqu , Chen Xing , Ma Handong
Published: July 2020

The high enthalpy nozzle converts the high enthalpy stagnation gas into the hypervelocity free flow. The flow region of the high enthalpy nozzle consists of three parts: an equilibrium region upstream of the throat, a non-equilibrium region near the throat, and a frozen region downstream of the throat. Here we propose to consider the thermochemical non-equilibrium scale effects in the high enthalpy nozzle. With numerical solving axisymmetric compressible Navier-Stokes equations coupling with Park’s two-temperature model, the fully non-equilibrium solution is employed throughout the entire nozzle. Calculations are performed at different stagnation conditions with the different absolute scales and expansion ratio. The results of this study contain twofold. Firstly, as the absolute scale and expansion ratio increase, the freezing position is delayed, and the flow approaches equilibrium. Secondly, the vibrational temperature and Mach number decrease with the increase in the nozzle scale and expansion ratio，while the speed of sound, static pressure, and translational temperature increase as the nozzle scale and expansion ratio increase.
Predictive Value of the Surgical Apgar Score on Postoperative Complications in Advanced Gastric Cancer Patients Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Followed by Radical Gastrectomy: A Single-center Retrospective Study
Authors: Hayashi Masato , Yoshikawa Takaki , Yura Masahiro , Otsuki Sho , Yamagata Yukinori , Morita Shinji , Katai Hitoshi , Nishida Toshirou
Published: July 2020

Background The surgical Apgar score (SAS) or modified SAS (mSAS) has been reported as a simple and easy risk assessment system for predicting postoperative complications in primary surgery for gastric cancer. However, few studies have described the SAS’s utility in gastric surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC).Methods One hundred and fifteen patients who received NAC and radical gastrectomy from 2008 and 2015 were included in this study. The SAS was determined by the estimated blood loss (EBL), lowest intraoperative mean arterial pressure, and lowest heart rate. The mSAS was determined by the EBL reassessed using the interquartile values. The predictive values of the SAS/mSAS for postoperative complications were assessed with univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses.Results Among the 115 patients, 41 (35.7%) developed postoperative complications. According to analyses with receiver operating characteristic curves of the SAS and mSAS for predicting postoperative complications, the cut-off value of the mSAS was set at 8. The rates of anastomotic leakage, pancreatic fistula, and arrhythmia in patients with high mSAS (>8) values were higher than in those with low (0-3) and moderate (4-7) mSAS values. A multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the operation time, body mass index, and diabetes mellitus were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. The mSAS was not a significant predictor.Conclusion The predictive value of SAS or mSAS for morbidity may be limited in patients who undergo gastric cancer surgery after NAC. Future prospective studies with a large sample size will be needed to confirm the present results.
Perspectives and practices of health workers around diagnosis of paediatric tuberculosis in hospitals in a resource-poor setting – modern diagnostics meet age-old challenges
Authors: Oliwa Jacquie Narotso , Odero Sabina Adhiambo , Nzinga Jacinta , Hensbroek Michaël Boele van , Jones Caroline , English Mike , Hoog Anja van't
Published: July 2020

Background Detection of tuberculosis (TB) in children in Kenya is sub-optimal. Xpert MTB/RIF® assay (Xpert®) has the potential to improve speed of TB diagnosis due to its sensitivity and fast turnaround for results. Significant effort and resources have been put into making the machines widely available in Kenya, but use remains low, especially in children. We set out to explore the reasons for the under-detection of TB and underuse of Xpert® in children, identifying challenges that may be relevant to other newer diagnostics in similar settings. Methods This was an exploratory qualitative study with an embedded case study approach. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews; small-group discussions; key informant interviews; observations of TB trainings, sensitisation meetings, policy meetings, hospital practices; desk review of guidelines, job aides and policy documents. The Capability, Opportunity and Motivation (COM-B) framework was used to interpret emerging themes. Results At individual level, knowledge, skill, competence and experience, as well as beliefs and fears impacted on capability (physical & psychological) as well as motivation (reflective) to diagnose TB in children and use diagnostic tests. Hospital level influencers included hospital norms, processes, patient flows and resources which affected how individual health workers attempted to diagnose TB in children by impacting on their capability (physical & psychological), motivation (reflective & automatic) and opportunity (physical & social). At the wider system level, community practices and beliefs, and implementation of TB programme directives impacted some of the decisions that health workers made through capability (psychological), motivation (reflective & automatic) and opportunity (physical). Conclusion We used comprehensive approaches to identify influencers of TB case detection and use of TB diagnostic tests in children in Kenya. These results are being used to design a contextually-appropriate intervention to improve TB diagnosis, which may be relevant to similar low-resource, high TB burden countries and can be feasibly implemented by the National TB programme.
Retrospective study of quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Chen Luning , Ji Jingjing , Tian Yali , Sun Qing , Qiu Xuefeng , Li Xiaogong , Li Bingbing
Published: July 2020

Background: The postoperative analgesic effect of transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (QLB-TM) in patients following lower abdominal surgeries has been identified, however, the efficacy of QLB using the lateral approach (QLB-L) is still in debate. Therefore, this retrospective study was conducted to investigate the effect of a single-shot block with QLB-L on postoperative analgesia for patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).Methods: The medical information of the patients undergoing PCNL was retrieved from the electronic charter system (Medisystem, Suzhou, China) in our Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital during the period of Jan/2019 to Jun/2019. Among the total of 57 patients, there are 17, 18, and 22 patients subjected to QLB-L, QLB-TM, or routine treatment respectively. The primary observational parameter was to assess postoperative pain with visual analog scales (VAS) at rest 30 min after extubation, 24 h, and 48 h after surgery respectively. The secondary observatory endpoints including the consumption of intraoperative opioids, the cumulative dose of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the incidence of adverse events related to postoperative analgesia were evaluated as well.Results: The static VAS score at 24 h after surgery and the intraoperative consumption of sufentanil were significantly lower in patients receiving either intervention of QLB-L or QLB-TM as compared with those receiving routine treatment. However, one shot of QLB had no impact on VAS scores at 30 min post-extubation, 48 h after PCNL procedure compared with the patients receiving routine treatment. The percentage of non-ambulatory patients within 24 h post-PCNL was significantly higher in the QLB-TM group compared with the routine treatment group (P=0.04). There were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomit (PONV), respiratory depression, the time for the first defecation and the length of hospital stay (LOS) among the three groups.Conclusions: QLB-L procedure exerts as equivalent as QLB-TM in terms of abrogating postoperative pain within 24 h post-surgery and decreasing intraoperative sufentanil consumption in patients undergoing PCNL procedure as well. The caution should be taken to avoid lower extremities weakness in the patients after QLB-TM within the first 24 h post-PCNL.
Procalcitonin levels in children with bloodstream infections caused by different species: a cohort study
Authors: Bejarano José Iván Castillo , Ranero Agustín De Colsa , Rivera Oscar Tamez , Lozoya Andrés Guillen , Saldaña Napoleón González , Anaya Alfonso Huante , Benavente Ismael Herrera , Santos Abiel Mascareñas de los
Published: July 2020

Background: Timely diagnosis and accurate identification of the causative microorganism in sepsis is crucial in order to offer directed treatment and increase survival rates. Previous studies have aimed to identify biomarkers that could potentially predict blood culture positivity in patients with bacteremia; however, most of the research has been performed in adult populations. The aim of this study were to analyze procalcitonin levels in confirmed bloodstream infections by species in children and assess its utility in immunocompromised patients. Methods: We included children who met the diagnostic criteria for sepsis, with PCT levels collected within a 72-hour period prior to obtaining a blood culture. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare differences among groups. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate PCT cut-offs. Results: 120 patients were included, mean age of 55 months. Subjects with immunodeficiency mean PCT was 26.68 mcg/L, compared to 8.78 in immunocompetent hosts. Subjects with Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) had the highest mean PCT levels (18.2 ± 34.2). The difference among microorganisms was significant. Sensitivity and specificity were 78% and 53% for Gram-positive cocci, 60.9% and 33.3% for GNB, and 75% with 25% for yeasts. Subgroup analysis showed 87.5% sensitivity and 16.7% specificity of PCT for predicting GNB blood culture in immunodeficiency children. Conclusions: PCT could be considered as a surrogate biomarker in immunocompromised children and a viable tool to differentiate etiology by species. Key words: Procalcitonin; Sepsis; Bacterial sepsis
Growth differentiation factor 15 is associated with cardiovascular outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Li Man , Duan Lei , Cai Yulun , Li Huiying , Hao Benchuan , Chen Jianqiao , Liu Hongbin
Published: July 2020

Background: Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is a marker of inflammation, oxidative stress and it is associated with adverse prognosis in cardiovascular disease. The aim of the present cohort study is to investigate the prognostic value of GDF-15 in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) during long-term follow up.Methods: A total of 3641 consecutive patients with CAD were prospectively enrolled into the study and followed up for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and all-cause death up to 5.3-7.6 years. Plasma GDF-15 was measured and clinical data and long-term events were registered. The patients were subsequently divided into three groups by the levels of GDF-15 and the prognostic value of GDF-15 level with MACEs and all-cause death was evaluated.Results: After a median follow-up at 6.4 years later, 775 patients (event rate of 21%) had developed MACEs and 275 patients died (event rate of 7.55%). Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated that the patients with GDF-15 > 1800 ng/L were significantly associated with an increased risk of MACEs and all-cause death. Cox regression analysis indicated that GDF-15 > 1800 ng/L were independently associated with the composite of MACEs (HR 1.74; 95% CI: 1.44–2.02; P＜0.001) and all-cause death (HR 2.04; 95% CI 1.57–2.61; P＜0.001). For MACEs, GDF-15 significantly improved the C-statistic (area under the curve, 0.583 [95% CI, 0.559-0.606] to 0.628 [0.605-0.651]; P＜0.001), net reclassification index (0.578; P=0.031), and integrated discrimination index (0.021; P=0.027). For all-cause death, GDF-15 significantly improved the C-statistic (0.728 [95% CI, 0.694-0.761] to 0.817 [0.781-0.846]; P＜0.001), net reclassification index (0.629; P=0.001), and integrated discrimination index (0.035; P=0.002).Conclusions: In the setting of CAD, GDF-15 is associated with long-term MACEs and all-cause death, and provides incremental prognostic value beyond traditional risks factors.
Genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum in Grande Comore Island
Authors: Mze Nasserdine Papa , Bogreau Hervé , Diedhiou Cyrille K. , Herdell Vendela , Rahamatou Silai , Bei Amy K. , .Volkman Sarah K , BASCO Leonardo , Mboup Souleymane , Ahouidi Ambroise D.
Published: July 2020

Background Despite several control interventions resulting in a considerable decrease in malaria prevalence in the Union of the Comoros, the disease remains a public health problem with high transmission in Grand Comore compared to neighboring islands. In this country, only a few studies investigating the genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum have been performed so far. For this reason, this study aims to examine the genetic diversity of P. falciparum by studying samples collected in Grande Comore in 2012 and 2013, using merozoite surface protein 1 ( msp1 ), merozoite surface protein 2 ( msp2 ) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genetic markers. Methods A total of 151 positive rapid diagnostic test (RDT) samples from Grande Comore were used to extract parasite DNA. Allelic families K1, Mad20 and RO33 of the msp1 gene as well as allelic families IC3D7 and FC37 of the msp2 gene were determined by using nested PCR. Additionally, 50 out of 151 samples were genotyped to study 24 SNPs by using high resolution melting (HRM). Results Two allelic families were predominant, the K1 family of msp1 gene (55%) and the FC27 family of msp2 gene (47.4%). Among 50 samples genotyped for 24 SNPs, 42 (84%) yielded interpretable results. Out of these isolates, 36 (85%) were genetically unique and 6 (15%) grouped into two clusters. The genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum calculated from msp gene ( msp1 and msp 2) and SNPs was 0.82 and 0.6 respectively. Conclusion In summary, a large genetic diversity of P. falciparum was observed in Grande Comore. This may favor persistence of malaria, and might be one of the reasons for the high malaria transmission compared to neighboring islands. Further surveillance of P. falciparum isolates, mainly through environmental management / vector control, is warranted until complete elimination is attained.
Reliable and rapid smooth extubation after Ketofol for induction of general anesthesia in Laparoscopic Drilling of polycystic ovary: A randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Mahmoud Atef Mohamed Sayed , Ragab Safaa Gaber , Botros Joseph Makram
Published: July 2020

Background : the outcome of ketofol on the hemodynamics and the airway response during induction of general anesthesia has been studied before. Its effect on the smoothness of extubation has not been studied before. So, we aimed to assess the effect of ketofol on the smoothness of extubation and compare it with propofol only for the induction of general anesthesia. Methods: This double-blind, randomized, and controlled study was conducted on one hundred and six American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical status ''ASA PS'' class I and II female patients aged 18-40 years old and scheduled for laparoscopic drilling for polycystic ovary disease under general anesthesia. The patients were assigned into one of two groups (53) patients each; group KP = ketofol and group P = propofol. Results: There was a good sedation score during suction and extubation in the ketofol group. Airway response and smoothness of extubation were better in the ketofol more than the propofol group. Conclusion: Ketofol as an induction anesthetic agent was effective in attenuating the airway response during extubation more than profofol only. Trial registration: This trial was retrospectively registered at the Clinical Trial.gov with the Identification Number: NCT04365686.
Upstream Region of OprD Mutations in Imipenem-Resistant and Imipenem-Sensitive Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Isolates
Authors: Kiani Masoumeh , Astani Akram , Afkhami Hamed , Khaledi Mansoor , Fathi Javad , Rostami soodabeh , Zarei Mohadeseh , Zandi Hengameh
Published: July 2020

Background: The current study was aimed to investigate the prevalence of the mutations of the oprD gene among imipenem-resistant and -sensitive Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from educational hospitals in Yazd, Iran.Methods: In this study, 90 P. aeruginosa isolates were collected from different clinical samples and transferred to the Department of Microbiology, Shahid Sadoghi University of Medical Science, during 2015 to 2016. All isolates were identified by the conventional biochemical tests and antibiotic resistance was determined using disk diffusion method. E. test was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of imipenem. The mutations of upstream of the oprD coding region and its promoters and 54 primary nucleotide of this gene were recognized by the amplification of this region and subsequently sequenced.Results: Seventy (77.7%) of isolates had MIC≥16 and were resistant to imipenem. The results showed that the rate of resistance to imipenem is increasing. Mutations of the upstream of the oprD gene and its promoters were seen in 25 (86.2%) of isolates and 4 strains had no mutation. All of the imipenem-resistant isolates had mutations. One isolate had a base substitution A→ C at nt 25 in coding region and this isolate had a point mutation leading to an amino acid change at positions 9 (I→L). Conclusion: The results showed that imipenem resistance is increasing in P. aeruginosa, also indicated that the point mutations were the most common cause of the inactivation of upstream of the oprD coding region among P. aeruginosa isolates, it seems this mechanism is effective in resistance of isolates to imipenem.
Performance Evaluation of Direction Cosine Matrix and Madgwick’s as 3D Orientation Estimation Algorithm for Estimating Ground Contour
Authors: Wibowo Eri Prasetyo , Purwanto Imam , Christie Dennis Aprilla , Musa Purnawarman , Soerowirdjo Busono
Published: July 2020

Contour interval is elevation difference between two contour lines that are adjacent and parallel. Ground Contour interval is an important information that must be provided in a construction. Ground contour interval estimation problem could be viewed as a 3D trajectory estimation problem. One framework, called dead reckoning, is often used for motion (position and orientation) tracking of a mobile systems over time. Dead reckoning requires a precise 3D orientation estimation algorithm. Two competing algorithms are Direction Cosine Matrix and Madgwick’s. To ensure the 3D trajectory estimation gives an accurate result, these two algorithms must be carefully and thoroughly evaluated. This research is part of a complete research on the development of a ground contour estimation and only focuses on comparison between two 3D orientation estimation algorithm.
Proteomic Profiling Reveals Differentially Expressed Proteins Associated with Amylose Accumulation During Rice Grain Filling
Authors: Zhang Hengdong , Chen Jiana , Shah Shuanglü , Cao Fangbo , Chen Guanghui , Zou Yingbin , Huang Min , Abou-Elwafa Salah Fatouh
Published: July 2020

BackgroundAmylose accumulation in rice grains is controlled by genetic and environmental factors. Amylose content is a determinant factor of rice quality in terms of cooking and eating. Great variations in amylose content in indica rice cultivars have been observed. The current study was to identify differentially expressed proteins in starch and sucrose metabolism and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways and their relationships to amylose synthesis using two rice cultivars possess contrasting phenotypes in grain amylose content.ResultsSynthesis and accumulation of amylose in rice grains significantly affected the variations between rice cultivars in amylose contents. The high amylose content variety have three down-regulated differentially expressed proteins, i.e., LOC_Os01g62420.1, LOC_Os02g36600.1, and LOC_Os08g37380.2 in the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway, which limit the glycolytic process and decrease the consumption of glucose-1-phosphate. In the starch and sucrose metabolic pathway, an up-regulated protein, i.e., LOC_Os06g04200.1 and two down-regulated proteins, i.e., LOC_Os05g32710.1 and LOC_Os04g43360.1 were identified (Figure 4). Glucose-1-phosphate is one of the first substrates in starch synthesis and glycolysis that are catalyzed to form adenosine diphosphate glucose (ADPG), then the ADPG is catalyzed by granule-bound starch synthase Ⅰ (GBSS I) to elongate amylose.ConclusionsThe results indicate that decreasing the consumption of glucose-1-phosphate in glycolytic process is essential for the formation of ADPG and UDPG, which are substrates for amylose synthesis. In theory, amylose content in rice can be regulated by controlling the fate of glucose-1-phosphate.
Qingfei Tongluo formula attenuated pulmonary inflammation and embolism in mycoplasma pneumonia mice
Authors: Jiang Yong-hong , xiao Zhen , Jiang Zhi-Yan , Zhao Xiao-Yang , Lv Jia-jia , Li Qian
Published: July 2020

Background

Qingfei Tongluo formular (QT) is a homemade agent for the Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) treatment developed by pediatrics of Shanghai Longhua hospital, which combining with AZM(azithromycin) has better clinical curative effect. This study aims at exploring the chemical components and clarifying the possible mechanism involved in.
Methods

LC-MS was used for chemical analysis. The mycoplasma pneumoniae infected mice were treated with AZM and QT (46.25 and 92.5 mg/g) for 3 days. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) and monocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured by haemacytometer. IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β and IL-13 in BALF were identified by ELISA assay. HE staining was employed for histological examination. TLR4, COX-2 and NF-κB expressions were assessed by western blot.Student‘s t test was used to compared the differences between two groups, while one-way analysis of variance was used when more than two groups were compared. P < 0.05 was taken as statistical significance.
Results

10 compounds were identified in QT. After QT treatment, PMNs and monocytes in BALF were reduced and release of inflammatory cytokines was also mediated. HE staining showed that QT effectively arbitrated the inflammation and embolism in lung tissue. QT also blocked the TLR4-NF-κB-COX-2 signaling.
Conclusions

QT showed favorable effect in MPP treatment by diminishing the inflammation symptoms and regulating the TLR4-NF-κB-COX-2 signaling, which could act as a new agent for MPP therapy.
China’s bottom trawl fisheries and their global impact
Authors: Zhang Xiong , Vincent Amanda
Published: July 2020

China dominates the world’s highly destructive bottom trawl fisheries (BTF), active in 30 countries and landing 28% of BTF catch. We created the first time series for China’s BTF, from 1950 to 2018, and examined their national and global impacts. Between 1978 and 1997, China’s BTF fleet increased 47 fold (in numbers) and 26 fold (in engine power), driving enormous acceleration in Asia’s fishing capacity. China embarked on BTF globally from 1985, particularly in East Asia and Africa. Such distant water fisheries (DWF) absorb about 20% of China’s BTF capacity. China’s rampant BTF raises significant concerns: fish availability plummeted wherever China fished, domestically and in DWF; there are strong indications of fishing through the food web and fishing indiscriminately in China’s EEZ; and the mean trophic level of catch eaten by humans has declined. Urgent management interventions are needed to stem such ‘slash-and-burn’ fishing practices in China and worldwide.
The Quiet Crisis of PhDs and COVID-19: Reaching the financial tipping point.
Authors: Johnson Rebecca L. , Coleman Ross A. , Batten Nicole H. , Hallsworth Djuna , Spencer Emma E.
Published: July 2020

Before the COVID-19 crisis, existing high levels of financial concerns amongst PhD students increased their vulnerability to disruptive events. Impacts from the pandemic have increased their financial stress to the point that may result in many being forced to exit research studies. An exodus of doctoral students now would impact our future research capacity. The effects of the unfolding crisis on research students at a research-intensive Australian university was documented by a group of doctoral candidates who received 1,020 survey responses from their cohort. Here we show that the pandemic has severely affected research candidates and argue that these results have notable implications for a future research workforce. We found that 75% of students expect to experience financial hardship as a result of the pandemic. Consequently, 45% report being pushed beyond their financial capacities and expect to be forced to disengage from their research within six months. Comparative pre-COVID data from an Australian national survey, reports research student disengagement of 20% over four years. The 25% increase of expected disengagement, in a much-reduced period, signals a deeper PhD crisis. Swift intervention is required to avert substantial impacts to the pipeline of research talent.
Single atom dispersion of silicon as advanced versatile electrode material
Authors: Yang Ze , Song Yuwei , Zhang Chunfang , He Jianjiang , Li Xiaodong , Wang Xin , Wang Ning , Huang Changshui , Li Yuliang
Published: July 2020

Silicon (Si) exhibits highest theoretical charge capacity and low discharge potential, but the associated volume expansion cannot be neglected. Here we report a single atom dispersion strategy to prepare a well distributed Si single atom based electrode material, which can effectively inhibit the volume expansion even when the storage sites are fully occupied. The dispersion of Si single atoms are achieved by bonding Si atom with acetylenic carbon atom, forming a three-dimensional diamond-like skeleton. Owing to the combination of Si and diyne in the stable diamond-like skeleton, the as-prepared material, named as silicon-diamondyne (Si-DY), exhibits extraordinary electrochemical performance. Si-DY has been predicted to exhibit ultrahigh theoretical specific capacity of 3674 mA h g-1, 2810 mA h g-1, and 1945 mA h g-1 in lithium-ion battery (LIB), sodium-ion battery (SIB) and potassium-ion battery (KIB), respectively. Especially, the as-prepared Si-DY samples also achieve very stable measured specific capacity in LIB (2350 mA h g−1), SIB (812 mA h g-1) and KIB (512 mA h g-1), as well as ultra-long cycling stability (up to 5000 charge/discharge cycles). Those excellent results demonstrate the single atom dispersion technology of Si atoms can be an efficient way to prepare high-utilization Si based electrochemical materials.
Effectiveness of Interventions on Early Neurodevelopment of Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Aita Marilyn , Clifford-Faugère Gwenaëlle De , Lavallée Andréane , Feeley Nancy , Stremler Robyn , Rioux Emilie , Proulx Marie-Hélène
Published: July 2020

Background and ObjectiveAs preterm infants’ neurodevelopment is shaped by NICU-related factors during their hospitalization, it is essential to evaluate which interventions are more beneficial for their neurodevelopment at this specific time. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions initiated during NICU hospitalization on preterm infants’ early neurodevelopment during their hospitalization and up to two weeks corrected age (CA).MethodsThis systematic review referred to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses [PRISMA] guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017047072). We searched CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE (OVID), Cochrane Systematic Reviews, CENTRAL, and Web of Science from 2002 to February 2020 and included randomized controlled/clinical trials conducted with preterm infants born between 24 and 366/7 weeks of gestation. All types of interventions instigated during NICU hospitalization were included. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection, data extraction, assessment of risks of bias and quality of evidence.ResultsFindings of 12 studies involving 901 preterm infants were synthesized. We combined three studies in a meta-analysis showing that compared to standard care, the NIDCAP intervention is effective in improving preterm infants’ neurobehavioral and neurological development at two weeks CA. We also combined two other studies in a meta-analysis indicating that parental participation did not significantly improve preterm infants’ neurobehavioral development during NICU hospitalization. For all other interventions (i.e., developmental care, sensory stimulation, music and physical therapy), the synthesis of results shows that compared to standard care or other types of comparators, the effectiveness was either controversial or partially effective.Conclusions and Implications:The overall quality of evidence was rated low to very low. Future studies are needed to identify interventions that are the most effective in promoting preterm infants’ early neurodevelopment during NICU hospitalization or close to term age. Interventions should be appropriately designed to allow comparison with previous studies and a combination of different instruments could provide a more global assessment of preterm infants’ neurodevelopment and thus allow for comparisons across studies.Systematic Review Protocol Registration:Prospero CRD42017047072
Highly selective catalysis at the liquid-liquid interface micro-region
Authors: Zhang Yabin , Ettelaie Rammile , Binks Bernard P. , Yang Hengquan
Published: July 2020

Liquid-liquid interfaces in principle have the potential to regulate the selectivity of chemical reactions because of large polar gradients and highly anisotropic microenvironments, but have not yet been well exploited. Here, we present an oil-water interface-based strategy to boost catalytic selectivity, exemplified by selective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes. The key to this success is the spatially controlled assembly of tubular catalyst particles at the narrow inner interfacial layer of Pickering emulsion water droplets in oil. The catalyst particles that are assembled at the inner interfacial layer of water droplets exhibit much higher selectivity to C=O hydrogenation than ones located either at the outer interfacial layer, in the interior of droplets or at the conventionally-called Pickering emulsion interface. 92.0−98.0% selectivity to the thermodynamically and kinetically unfavorable C=O hydrogenation over the C=C hydrogenation was achieved unexpectedly. The assembly strategy reported here and the unprecedented effects of interface-induced catalytic selectivity enhancement open up a liquid-liquid interface engineering route to tune reaction outcome.
Centripetal Cities: Using Big Data to Measure Job-Housing Separation Based on Employment-Residence-Commuting Trade-off
Authors: Lu Ming , Peng Chong
Published: July 2020

With the advent of postindustrial society, populations are becoming increasingly concentrated in large cities, especially in urban centers. Here we study the “centripetal city” phenomenon. With many new service-industry jobs concentrated in central cities, people face the trade-off between employment, residence, and commuting. Using multisource big data from Shanghai, China, we develop a new job–housing separation index to reflect the trade-off between employment, housing price and commuting. We demonstrate that residents in central urban areas within a radius of approximately 20 km from the central business district tolerate job–housing separation in exchange for lower housing prices. Recent data indicate that job–housing separation accounts for 20% of housing prices. Our framework outperforms previous metrics, which not only provides a basis for understanding the formation and evolution of spatial structure in large cities, but can also guide wise planning and managing interventions for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
A novel optical biosensor for the early diagnosis of sepsis and severe COVID-19: the PROUD study
Authors: Doulou Sarantia , Leventogiannis Konstantinos , Tsilika Maria , Rodencal Matthew , Katrini Konstantina , Antonakos Nikolaos , Kyprianou Miltiades , Karofylakis Emmanouil , Karageorgos Athanassios , Koufargyris Panagiotis , Christopoulos Gennaios , Kassianidis George , Stamatelopoulos Kimon , Newberry Robert , Giamarellos-Bourboulis Evangelos J.
Published: July 2020

Background The accuracy of a new optical biosensor (OB) point-of-care device for the detection of severe infections is studied.Methods The OB emits different wavelengths and outputs information associated with heart rate, pulse oximetry, levels of nitric oxide and kidney function. At the derivation phase, recordings were done every two hours for three consecutive days after hospital admission in 142 patients at high-risk for sepsis by placing the OB on the forefinger. At the validation phase, single recordings were done in 54 patients with symptoms of viral infection; 38 were diagnosed with COVID-19.Results At the derivation phase, the cutoff value of positive likelihood of 18 provided 100% specificity and 100% positive predictive value for the diagnosis of sepsis. These were 87.5% and 91.7% respectively at the validation phase. OB diagnosed severe COVID-19 with 83.3% sensitivity and 87.5% negative predictive value.Conclusions The studied OB seems valuable for the discrimination of infection severity.
The determinants of the global competitiveness of the economy: a dynamic panel approach applied to the WAEMU country
Authors: SIGUE Moussa
Published: July 2020

This article examines the determinants of the overall competitiveness of the WAEMU economy from a dynamic panel approach over the period 2011–2017. The estimate by the method of generalized moments in system (GMM) Reveled that the delayed competitiveness of a period financial development, GDP per head, internal absorption and taxes on foreign trade affects positively and significantly the overall competitiveness of the WAEMU countries while economic openness, the rate of inflation and the quality of institutions have contributed negative and significant. It emerges from this work that an improvement in the overall competitiveness of the Union's economy imperatively requires accelerating the process of development of quality, the financial system as well as protecting local industries from external pressure to through a more adequate commercial policy taking into account the constraints linked to commercial agreements.
The strategies of perioperative management in orthopedic department during the pandemic of COVID-19
Authors: Zeng Hui , Li Guoqing , Weng Jian , Xiong Ao , Xu Chang , Yang Yifei , Wang Deli
Published: July 2020

Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) broken out and spread rapidly nationwide at the beginning of 2020, which has brought huge impacts to people and work. The current situation of prevention and control is severe and urgent guidance for clinicians, especially for the medical systems. In the hope of providing a reference and recommendation for the prevention and control of the epidemic, we carried out research to improve the quality of patients care and prevention during this epidemic.
Methods
All of the involved health care personnel were rapidly trained to use personal protection equipment in our department. The managements of the surgery patients and association of two periods were described and analyzed. We reviewed and compared the patients’ discharged records in our database who underwent surgery in the Department of Bone & Joint Surgery at Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, who were discharged between January 1st to March 1st in 2019 and January 1st to March 1st in 2020. Both chi-squared test and Student’s t-test were performed to determine the relationship between the two periods.
Results
Analysis revealed that gender, surgery class, duration, and anaesthetization had no significantly differences between two periods (p༞0.05). However, age and blood loss had significant relationship of the two periods (p༜0.05).
Conclusions
The results of the study imply that we have been benefited from the strict flow charts in management of perioperative for orthopedic patients, which could be a valid tool in routine clinical practice and a consultation during pandemic of the COVID-19.