bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of New Candidate Biomarkers to Support Doxorubicin Treatments in Canine Cancer Patients
Authors: Walters Kristine , Stornetta Alessia , Jacobs Foster , Villalta Peter , Razzoli Maria , Grant Marianne , Zordoky Beshay , Bartolomucci Alessandro , Borgatti Antonella , Balbo Silvia
Published: March 2021

Background: Human and veterinary cancer chemotherapy are undergoing a paradigm shift from a “one size fits all” approach to personalized, patient-oriented treatment strategies. Personalized chemotherapy is dependent on the identification and validation of biomarkers that can predict treatment outcome and/or risk of toxicity. Many cytotoxic chemotherapy agents, including doxorubicin, base their mechanism of action by interaction with DNA and disruption of normal cellular processes. We developed a high-resolution/accurate-mass liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry DNA screening approach for doxorubicin-induced DNA modifications (adducts) in vitro and in vivo. We used, for the first time, a new strategy involving the use of isotope-labeled DNA, which greatly facilitates adduct discovery. The overall goal of this work was to identify doxorubicin-DNA markers to be used as tools to predict drug efficacy for use in veterinary oncology. Results: We used our novel mass spectrometry approach to screen for adducts in purified DNA exposed to doxorubicin. This initial in vitro screening identified nine potential doxorubicin-DNA adduct masses, as well as an intense signal corresponding to DNA-intercalated doxorubicin. Two of the adduct masses, together with doxorubicin and its metabolite doxorubicinol, were subsequently detected in vivo in liver DNA extracted from mice exposed to doxorubicin. Finally, the presence of these adducts and analytes was explored in the DNA isolated from dogs undergoing treatment with doxorubicin. The previously identified nine DOX-DNA adducts were not detected in these preliminary three samples collected seven days post-treatment, however intercalated doxorubicin and doxorubicinol were detected. Conclusions: This work sets the stage for future evaluation of candidate DNA-related markers as biomarkers to personalize chemotherapy protocols for canine cancer patients. It demonstrates our ability to combine in one method the analysis of DNA adducts and DNA-intercalated doxorubicin and doxorubicinol, which interestingly, were persistent in samples from canine patients undergoing doxorubicin chemotherapy seven days after treatment. The presence of doxorubicin in all samples suggests a role for it as a promising biomarker for use in veterinary chemotherapy. Future studies will involve the analysis of more samples from canine cancer patients to elucidate optimal timepoints for monitoring doxorubicin-DNA adducts and the correlation of these markers with therapy outcome.
Integrative proteogenomic characterization of early esophageal cancer
Authors: Li Lingling , Jiang Dongxian , Zhang Qiao , Liu Hui , Qin Zhaoyu , Xu Fujiang , Shen Dan , Wang Haixing , Feng Jinwen , Liu Yang , Chen Weijie , Zhang Xue , Bai Lin , Tian Sha , Tan Subei , Xu Chen , Song Qi , Liu Yalan , Zhong Yunshi , Chen Tianyin , Zhou Pinghong , Zhao Jian-Yuan , Hou Ying-Yong , Ding Chen
Published: March 2021

We performed a comprehensive genomic, proteomic, and phosphoproteomic analysis of 756 trace-tumor-samples from 124 esophageal cancer (EC) patients, covering 9 major histopathological stages and 22 substages. The results revealed a significant diversity of proteome patterns in the 22 substages. The integrated multi-omics data identified genomic-proteomic aberrations revealing the association of TP53, ATM, and EP400 mutations that affected cell cycle, DNA repair, and glycolysis, with poor prognosis. Proteome-based analysis elucidated the stage-specific molecular characterization and defined the cancer-driving waves along with the mutation accumulation in esophageal carcinogenesis and progression. Furthermore, the trajectory analysis identified 6 major tracks related to different clinical features during early EC progression. Growingly enhanced and hyperphosphorylated phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1, S203) was detected and considered as a drug target in EC progression. Collectively, this study provides insight into the understanding of the molecular mechanism of EC progression and a valuable resource for the development of therapeutic targets.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance of CuFeO2-ZnO Heterostructures for Methylene Blue Degradation under Sunlight
Authors: Sudarsan Preethi , Seethapathy Vivek , Ranganathan Priya , S Balakumar , Krishnamoorthy Suresh Babu
Published: March 2021

Development of heterostructures is one of the constructive strategies for enhancing the photocatalytic activity. Here, novel CuFeO 2 -ZnO heterostructures with different weight percentage (CuFeO 2 = 0.5, 1, 5, 10%) were prepared by two-step precipitation-hydrothermal process. The structural confirmation was done by XRD and Raman analysis. The photocatalytic efficiency of the heterostructures was assessed by the degradation of methylene blue under sunlight. CuFeO 2 -ZnO heterostructures enhanced the photocatalytic performance compared to pure ZnO and CuFeO 2 . Among all, 5 wt % of CuFeO 2 on ZnO exhibited 100% degradation with 16 fold faster kinetics than ZnO. Time-resolved photoluminescent analysis revealed the increase in lifetime of charge carriers in the heterostructure. The band alignments of ZnO and CuFeO 2 , evaluated by Mott–Schottky revealed the existence of Type 1 heterostructures. Further, the heterostructures exhibited good recyclability. Thus, the present work demonstrates the use of p-type CuFeO 2 and n-type ZnO heterostructures as potential photocatalysts.
Nitrogen process in stormwater bioretention: The impact of alternate drying and rewetting on nitrogen migration and transformation
Authors: Chen Yao , Chen Renyu , Liu Zhen , Yu Xuehua , Zheng Shuang , Yuan Shaochun
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Nitrogen migration and transformation in the stormwater bioretention system were studied in laboratory experiments, in which the effects of drying-rewetting were particularly investigated. The occurrence and distribution of nitrogen in the plants, the soil, and the pore water were explored under different drying-rewetting cycles. The results clearly showed that bioretention system could remove nitrogen efficiently in all drying-rewetting cycles. The incoming nitrogen could be retained in the topsoil (0–10 cm) and accumulated in the planted layer. However, the overlong dry periods (12 and 22 days) cause an increase in nitrate in the pore water. In addition, nitrogen is mostly stored in the plants’ stem tissues. Up to 23.26% of the inflowing nitrogen can be immobilized in plant organ after a dry period of 22 days. In addition, the relationships between nitrogen reductase activity in the soil and soil nitrogen content were explored. The increase of soil TN content could enhance the activity of nitrate reductase. Meanwhile, the activity of hydroxylamine reductase (HyR) could be enhanced with the increase of soil NO3− content. These results provide a reference for the future development of nitrogen transformation mechanism and the construction of stormwater bioretention systems.
Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4 Alpha Attenuated Lipotoxicity, But Increased Bile Acid Toxicity in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Model.
Authors: Noh Yun Jin , Lee Jae Sun , Jun Dae Won , Lee Sung Ryol , Oh Ju Hee , Lee Seung Min , Saeed Waqar
Published: March 2021

Background: It is known that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α) is key master nuclear receptor for hepatic fat and bile acid metabolic pathways. But the role of HNF4α in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is complex. The current study aimed to investigate role of HNF4α in NAFLD. Methods: Hepatic HNF4α expression evaluated in human NAFLD subjects. Free fatty acid induced lipotoxicity evaluated under HNF4α over- and down regulation. Chenodeoxy cholic acid (CDCA) induced bile acid toxicity evaluated under HNF4α in In Vitro NAFLD model. NAFLD activity score and fibrosis assessed after HNF4α silencing in methionine choline deficiency diet fed mice. Results: Hepatic HNF4α expression was higher in NAFLD than in control group. Overexpression of HNF4α reduced intracellular lipid contents via increasing mitochondria beta-oxidation and hepatic fat excretion. HNF4α overexpression attenuated palmitic acid (PA) induced lipotoxicity. Protective effects of HNF4α on cell death were reversed when CDCA co-treated with PA. CDCA mono-treatment did not affect cell viability, but co-treatment with PA and CDCA decreased cell viability. Bile acid toxicity of HNF4α was exaggerated under PA co-treatment with CDCA. HNF4α knock down using small interfering RNA recovered cell apoptosis and increased cell proliferation from PA and CDCA co-treatment condition. Inhibition of HNF4α using sh-HNF4α adenovirus vector did not reduce hepatic fat accumulation, but decreased intrahepatic inflammation and NAFLD activity score compared to control.Conclusions: HNF4α increased free fatty acid oxidation and attenuated lipotixicity, but increased bile acid toxicity in NAFLD animal model. Inhibition of HNF4α attenuated In vivo NAFLD model.
Cause Analysis of PM2.5 pollution during the COVID-19 lockdown in Nanning, China
Authors: Huang Jiongli , Chen Zhiming , Zhou Bin , Zhu Kaixian , Liu Huilin , Mu Yijun , Zhang Dabiao , Wang Shanshan , mo Zhaoyu
Published: March 2021

To analyze the cause of atmospheric PM2.5 pollution occurred during the COVID-19 lockdown in Nanning of Guangxi, China, Single Particulate Aerosol Mass Spectrometer, Aethalometer, Particulate Lidar, coupled with the monitoring of near-surface gaseous pollutants, meteorological conditions, remote fire spots sensing by satellite and Backward Trajectory Models were conducted during 18–24, Feb 2020. Three haze stages of pre-pollution period (PPP), pollution accumulation period (PAP) and pollution dissipation period (PDP) were identified. The dominant source of PM2.5 in PPP was biomass burning (BB) (40.4%), followed by secondary inorganics (28.1%) and motor vehicle exhaust (11.7%). The PAP was characterized by a large abundance of secondary inorganics, which contributed for 56.1% of the total PM2.5 concentration, followed by BB (17.4%). The absorption Ångström exponent (2.2) in PPP was higher than those of the other two periods. The analysis of fire spots monitored by remote satellite sensing indicated that open BB in regions around Nanning city could be one of the main facotrs matters. The planetary boundary layer-relative humidity-secondary particles matter-particulate matter positive feedback mechanism was employed to elucidate the atompheric process in this study. This study highlights the importance of understanding the role of BB and meteorology in air pollution formation to call for policy for emission control strategies.
Integrated Analyses of miRNAome and Transcriptome Reveal The Function of miRNAs in Morphogenesis of Organs and Defense of Endophytes in Pseudostellaria Heterophylla
Authors: Li Jun , Wang Chongmin , Zhou Tao , Jin Haijun , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: March 2021

Background: miRNAs play a crucial role in plant development and growth by inhibiting the function of targeted gene mRNAs at the post transcription level. However, none miRNAs in Pseudostellaria heterophylla has been reported and their function in morphogenesis of organs and continuous cropping obstacles is still unclear. Results: A total of 163 conserved miRNAs (belonging to 66 families) and 303 level miRNAs were identified and some of them showed specifically up or down regulated expression in different tissues. Further, numbers of unigenes involved in Plant-pathogen interaction and MAPK signaling pathway-plant was targeted by miRNAs from P. heterophylla by using GO and KEGG analysis. Significant negative correlation between expression profiles of 30 miRNAs and their targets gene (37 unigenes) were observed. Further, a large number of genes involving with signal transduction of auxin, zeatin, abscisic acid and jasmonic acid were targeted by identified miRNAs in P. heterophylla. A predicated target gene of a conserved and novel miRNA was validated by 5′RLM-RACE, respectively. A large number of mRNA from four kinds of endophytes was targeted by miRNAs of P. heterophylla, and most genes were targeted by miR414. Conclusion: We report a population of P. heterophylla miRNAs from four different vegetative organs by high throughput sequencing, and analyzed combining with the constructed transcriptome. These results may help to explain the function of miRNA in morphogenesis of organs and defense of endophytes in P. heterophylla, and provide theoretical basis for breeding and genetic improvement of P. heterophylla.
Comparison of COPD and Lung Cancer Mechanisms for Identifying MicroRNA Biomarkers By The Reconstruction of miRNA-mRNA Co-Expression Network
Authors: Fathinavid Amirhossein , Mousavian Zaynab , Najafi Ali , Masoudi-Nejad Ali
Published: March 2021

Background: The association between lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is now well established; as people with COPD are more likely to develop lung carcinoma. However, the evidence for this relationship is inconclusive and there is currently little information on the underlying molecular mechanisms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are one of the regulatory factors in lung cancer and COPD that their functions are widely studied in many chronic diseases and cancers. Rationally, determining common miRNAs for both of diseases could provide a more detailed picture of this association and the involved molecular mechanisms. In this study, we applied systems biology approaches to identify and predict miRNAs that potentially play regulatory roles between COPD and lung cancer. Results: We performed differential expression analysis on public miRNA and mRNA expression data sets, for both of diseases, and calculated two correlation matrices between miRNA and mRNA for case and control samples. Then we constructed two miRNA-mRNA co-expression networks and merged these two co-expression networks into a community co-expression network. Results indicated the existence of very common miRNAs (ex. hsa-miR-326 and hsa-miR-1293) and mRNAs (such as FAT2, ALOX5AP, and LDB2) between the two mentioned diseases. Moreover, we discovered specific miRNAs (hsa-miR-574-3p) that targeted common mRNAs. We utilized drug-target interaction networks to identify candidate drugs (e.g. iloperidone) for common mRNAs that could be considered in treatment both of diseases.Conclusions: Generally, our study highlighted common miRNAs between COPD and lung cancer that could be used as new signatures or biomarkers for therapeutic purposes. Moreover, discovered candidate drugs may be applied in the treatment of both mentioned diseases. Investigating the miRNA biomarkers in this study improves our understanding about the shared mechanisms between COPD and lung cancer.
Sp1-Induced Upregulation of LBX2-AS1 Aggravates The Progression of Glioblastoma By Targeting The miR-491-5p/LIF Axis
Authors: Li Wentao , Soufiany Ismatullah , Lyu Xiao , Zhao Lin , Lu Chenfei , Wei Yutian , Shi Zhumei , You Yongping
Published: March 2021

Background: Mounting evidences have shown the importance of lncRNAs in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. LBX2-AS1 is an oncogenic lncRNA that has been found abnormally expressed in gastric cancer and lung cancer samples. Nevertheless, the biological function of LBX2-AS1 in glioblastoma (GBM) and potential molecular mechanism are largely unclear. Methods: Relative levels of LBX2-AS1 in GBM samples and cell lines were detected by qRT-PCR and FISH. In vivo and in vitro regulatory effects of LBX2-AS1 on cell proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis in GBM were examined through xenograft models and functional experiments, respectively. The interaction between Sp1 and LBX2-AS1 was assessed by ChIP. Through bioinformatic analyses, dual-luciferase reporter assay, RIP and Western blot, the regulation of LBX2-AS1 and miR-491-5p on the target gene leukemia Inhibitory factor (LIF) was identified. Results: LBX2-AS1 was upregulated in GBM samples and cell lines, and its transcription was promoted by binding to the transcription factor Sp1. As a lncRNA mainly distributed in the cytoplasm, LBX2-AS1 upregulated LIF, and activated the LIF/STAT3 signaling by exerting the miRNA sponge effect on miR-491-5p, thus promoting cell proliferation, EMT and angiogenesis in GBM. Besides, LBX2-AS1 was unfavorable to the progression of glioma and the survival. Conclusion: Upregulated by Sp1, LBX2-AS1 promotes the progression of GBM by targeting the miR-491-5p/LIF axis. It is suggested that LBX2-AS1 may be a novel diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target of GBM.
Intelligent Fluorescence Image Analysis of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles and Protein Liquid Phase Droplets by Whole Z-stack Analysis
Authors: Lee Il-Hyung , Passaro Sam , Ozturk Selin , Wang Weitian
Published: March 2021

Fluorescence image analysis in biochemical science often involves the complex tasks of identifying samples for analysis and calculating the desired information from the intensity traces. Analyzing giant unilamellar vesicles is one of these tasks. Researchers need to identify many vesicles to statistically analyze the degree of molecular interaction or state of molecular organization on the membranes. This analysis is complicated, requiring a careful manual examination by researchers, so automating the analysis can significantly aid in improving its efficiency and reliability. We developed an intelligent analysis routine based on the 3D information of whole z-stack images. The program identifies the valid vesicles to analyze and calculates the desired data automatically. The program can examine the amount of protein binding on the membranes and determine the state of domain phase separation by calculating the fluorescence intensity trace along the membranes. We also show that the method can easily be applied to similar analyses, such as intensity analysis of phase-separated protein droplets. A deep learning-based classification approach enables the identification of vesicles even from relatively complex samples. We demonstrate that the proposed artificial intelligence-assisted classification can further enhance the accuracy of the analysis close to the performance of manual examination.
Different Methods for Termination of Mid-trimester Pregnancy With Placenta Previa 
Authors: Long Qingyun , Wu Shiyao , Du Shuguo , Li Ruyan , Zhao Yun , Tang Fei
Published: March 2021

Objective: Investigate the different methods for termination at mid-trimester in pregnant women with placenta previa. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 264 cases for termination at mid-pregnancy in our hospital, and 34 cases with placenta previa were set as the observation group, and 230 cases with normal placenta were set as control group. Among them, the preferred methods of termination at first were Mifepristone combined with Misoprostol/Rivanol in the observation group, and Mifepristone combined with Misoprostol/Rivanol/cervical double balloon (CDB) in the control group. If the volume of prenatal bleeding was up to 100 mL in the observation group, emergency artery embolization (UAE) was implemented to stop bleeding, then CDB plus with curettage were used in order. If it failed to induce in the control group, CDB was used subsequently followed with Misoprostol/Rivanol. Then, all those cases were set as the comprehensive-induce group, and the others were set as the simple-induce group.Results: the average maternal age, the number of gravidity/parities, the rate of cesarean section, the hospitalization days and cost, the induction time, the rate of postpartum hemorrhage, puerperal infection were higher in the observation group than those in the control group(p<0.05). There were 4 cases used UAE+CDB+curettage in the observation group and 6 cases used CDB after Misoprostol/Rivanol in the control group. The duration time of termination, the rate of postpartum hemorrhage and transferring to ICU, hospitalization days and cost in the comprehensive-induce group were significantly higher than those in the simple-induce group (p<0.05). All cases were delivered through vaginal successfully.Conclusion: We should pay more attention to the complications of prenatal bleeding, postpartum hemorrhage, puerperal infection during the induction at mid-trimester in pregnant women with placenta previa. Emergency UAE + CDB +curettage is a good combination method in prenatal hemorrhage of placenta previa during termination, and CDB was a good tool for cervical ripen with immature cervical condition in mid-trimester for induction of labor.
Potassium-magnesium Imbalance Causes Detrimental Effects on Growth, Starch Allocation and Rubisco Activity in Sugarcane Plants 
Authors: Garcia Ariani , Crusciol Carlos Alexandre Costa , Rosolem Ciro Antonio , Bossolani João William , Nascimento Carlos Antonio Costa , McCray James Mabry , Reis André Rodrigues dos , Cakmak Ismail
Published: March 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The transformation of mesopelagic structure across polar fronts
Authors: Chawarski Julek , Klevjer Thor , Coté David , Maxime Geoffroy
Published: March 2021

The oceans sequester 31% of atmospheric carbon annually 1, but the magnitude of biologically enhanced sequestration is not evenly distributed across the globe 2. Measuring surface primary productivity offers a reasonable proxy for estimating carbon flux into the ocean 3 but entirely misses the processes that affect carbon export to sequestration depths. A high proportion of carbon flux is broken up 4 or respired 5 by organisms at mesopelagic depths (200-1000 m). At low and mid-latitudes, daytime biomass peaks of mesopelagic organisms are clearly present and detectable as sound-scattering layers, and up to 40% of oceanic carbon passes through these layers 6,7. Here we demonstrate that acoustic backscatter, a proxy for abundance of mesopelagic fish and zooplankton decreases by up to 97% across polar fronts, revealing a distinct pelagic structure in high latitude systems. As mesopelagic fish and macrozooplankton comprise a large component of active carbon transport in the upper ocean, this latitudinal reduction in mesopelagic biomass across thermal fronts, in both the Arctic and Antarctic, suggests different carbon flux attenuation schemes exists in ocean twilight zones of polar ecosystem compared to low latitude systems. Rapid ocean warming projected at mesopelagic depths8 will likely disrupt vertical connectivity and alter biogeochemical cycles at high latitudes.
SARS-CoV-2 transmission in an indoor mass-gathering live music event. A randomized clinical trial.
Authors: Llibre Josep M , Revollo Boris , Blanco Ignacio , Soler Pablo , Toro Jessica , Izquierdo-Useros Nuria , Puig Jordi , Puig Xavier , Navarro Valentí , Casañ Cristina , Ruiz Lidia , Perez-Zsolt Daniel , Videla Sebastià , Clotet Bonaventura
Published: March 2021

The banning of mass-gathering indoor events to prevent SARS-CoV-2 spread cause an important impact on local economies. We designed a randomized-controlled open-label trial to assess the effectiveness of a comprehensive preventive intervention for a mass-gathering indoor event (a live concert) based on systematic screening of attendees with antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic tests, use of facial mask, and adequate air ventilation. According to a RT-PCR test performed on day 8 after the event, none of the 465 assistants in the experimental arm (i.e., event attendants) became infected by SARS-CoV-2 (observed incidence 0%; Bayesian estimated incidence 0.14%; 95%CI: 0% to 0.61%) versus 2 out of 495 controls (not entering into the event) (0.31%; 95%CI: 0.04% to 0.73%). No significant differences were observed between the estimated incidence in the two study arms. Our study provides evidence on the safety of indoor mass-gathering events conducted during a COVID-19 outbreak under a comprehensive preventive intervention. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04668625)
Construction of An Index System of Core Competence Assessment For Infectious Disease Specialist Nurse: A Delphi Study
Authors: Wu Chao , Wu Ping , Li Pei , Cheng Feixia , He Shizhe , Du Yanling , Hongjuan Lang
Published: March 2021

Aim and objective: To establish an index system for the evaluation of infectious disease specialist nurse core competence.Background: An index system for the evaluation of infectious disease specialist nurse core competence has not been established.Design: A two-round Delphi survey sought opinions from experts about the index system for the evaluation of infectious disease specialist nurse core competence.Methods: Based on the methods of literature retrieval, theoretical analysis and qualitative research, the draft of core competence evaluation index system of infectious disease specialist nurses was constructed. A Delphi survey was used for the study of 30 infectious disease experts from 8 provinces and cities around China. A modified recommendation for the Conducting and Reporting of Delphi studies (CREDES) was used to guide this study. A STROBE checklist was used.Results: The evaluation index system of core competence of diseases specialist nurses is composed of 6 primary indicators which includes Nursing Abilities for infectious diseases, Infection Prevention and Control Capabilities, Capabilities in Response to Infectious Disease, Professional Development Capabilities, Communication and Management Capabilities and Professionalism and Humanistic Accomplishment, 16 secondary indicators and 47 tertiary indicators. The authority coefficient, judgment coefficient and familiarity degree of Delphi experts were 0.923, 0.933 and 0.913 respectively.Conclusions: The evaluation index system of core competence of diseases specialist nurses is scientific and reliable. It can be reference for future training and assessment of infectious disease specialist nurses.Relevance to clinical practice: Infectious disease specialist nurses are the main force for infectious disease nursing. Their core competence is related to the quality of infectious disease nursing and treatment. The core competence of the nurses is important for identification of training strategies and can be regarded as reference for nurse assessment and promotion. The construction of the index system is based on the consensus of infectious disease experts, which is helpful to standardize the training strategies and selection standards of infectious disease specialist nurses in the future and meet the needs of clinical infectious disease nursing.
Numerical Implementation of Drop Spin and Tilt Method For Five-Axis Tool Positioning For Tensor Product Surfaces
Authors: Sharma Sandeep Kumar , Duvedi Ravinder Kumar , Bedi Sanjeev , Mann Stephen
Published: March 2021

This paper presents an extension of multi point machining technique, called the Drop Spin and Tilt (DST) method, that spins the tool on two axes, allowing for the generation of multiple contact points at varying distances around the first point of contact. The multiple DST second points of contact were used to manually generate a toolpath with uniform spacing between the two points of contact. The original DST method used a symbolic algebra package to position the tool on a bi-quadratic surface; our extension is a numer- ical solution that allows positioning a toroidal tool on a tensor product Bezier surface. Further, we investigate the spread of possible second points of contact as the tool is spun around these two axes, demonstrating the feasability of using the method to control the machining strip width.
Chiral Phonons in Biocrystals
Authors: Choi Won Jin , Yano Keiichi , Cha Minjeong , Colombari Felippe , Wang Yichun , Lee Sang Hyun , Kruger John , Moura Andre de , Kotov Nicholas A
Published: March 2021

Chiral phonons are concerted mirror-symmetric movements of atomic groups connected by covalent and intermolecular bonds. Finding chiral phonons in biocrystals is fundamentally and technologically important because these lattice vibrations should be highly specific to their short- and long-range organizations. Based on theoretical and experimental data they might be expected but not identified or utilized. Here we show that terahertz chiroptical spectroscopy enables registration and attribution of chiral phonons in microcrystals of numerous amino acids and dipeptides. Theoretical analysis and computer simulations confirm that sharp mirror-symmetric bands observed for left and right enantiomers originate from collective vibrations of biomolecules interconnected by hydrogen bonds into helical chains. Structure-property relationships for strong phonons with rotatory components in biocrystals were also identified. Bladder stones and health supplements display strong spectral signatures of chiral phonons indicating their immediate importance for biomedicine.
Association between healthy lifestyle practices and life purpose among a highly health-literate cohort: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hirooka Nobutaka , Kusano Takeru , Kinoshita Shunsuke , Aoyagi Ryutaro , Nakamoto Hidetomo
Published: March 2021

Background

The national health promotion program in 21st century in Japan (HJ21) correlates life purpose with disease prevention; facilitating the adoption of healthy lifestyles. However, the influence of clustered healthy lifestyle practices on life purpose, in the context of a national health campaign, remains uninvestigated. Hence, this study assessed the association between such practices and life purpose in line with the HJ21.
Methods

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was given to certified specialists in health management. Participants’ demographic information, lifestyle, and purpose in life using a validated tool were measured. The cohort was median-split into two groups based on their clustered health-related lifestyle score. Health-related lifestyle and purpose were compared between the two groups, and the correlation between health-related lifestyles and purpose in life was measured.
Results

Data from 4,820 participants were analyzed. The higher scoring health-related lifestyle group showed a significantly higher life purpose than the lower group (35.3 vs 31.4; t = 23.6, p < 0.001). The association between the scores of clustered healthy lifestyle practices and life purpose was significant (r = 0.401, p < 0.001). The better health-related lifestyle group achieved a higher life purpose than the lower group. This association between healthy lifestyle practices and life purpose denotes a positive and linear relationship.
Conclusions

The present study suggest that individuals who have a better health-related lifestyle gain a higher sense of life purpose. Healthy lifestyle predicted purpose in life. Examining causal relation between healthy lifestyle and purpose in life may provide more efficient approach for health promotion.
Effect of Oral Vitamin E on Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Kidney Disease：A Protocol of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wan Renhong , Miao Pengwei , Ji Yue , Fan Yihua , Liu Xiaohan , Fang Yuxin , Li Xinju
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThe occurrence and progression of diabetic nephropathy is closely related to oxidative stress response. Vitamin E, as a lipid soluble antioxidant, has a long history of use. It may improve oxidative stress response to some extent, but there is no relevant support of evidence-based medicine. The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the effect of oral vitamin E on oxidative stress response in patients with diabetic nephropathy.MethodsA computer was used for retrieving data from English database (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library) and Chinese database (CNKI, Wangfang, VIP, CBMDISC) between the creation time to October 2020, a randomized controlled clinical study on oral vitamin E treatment of diabetic nephropathy. Two investigators conducted data extraction and literature quality evaluation for the included studies, and a Meta- analysis on the included articles was conducted using RevMan5.3 software.ConclusionsThis study will summarize up-to-date high-quality RCTs to assess the antioxidant effects of oral vitamin E on diabetic nephropathy. The findings of this study will help to determine whether oral vitamin E is effective and safe in patients with diabetic nephropathy.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020213945
Optic Disc Neovascularization in Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease- A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Paul Lagan , Shah Shalin , Agarwal Manisha , Singh Shalini
Published: March 2021

BackgroundVogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) disease is an autoimmune disorder which affects numerous organs of the body. We report two cases of Optic Nerve Head neovascularisation (NVD) in diagnosed cases of Vogt Koyanagi Harada(VKH) disease.FindingsCase 1: A 40 years female presented with acute loss of vision in both eyes for 10 days. She had multiple serous detachments in both eyes and diagnosed as acute VKH disease. After treatment, she was observed to have NVD later on OCT Angiography(OCTA). Case 2: A 52 years old man presented with history of sudden blackouts in front of left eye since 4 months. He was a case of chronic VKH and NVD was seen clinically and on OCTA. ConclusionThe exact etiopathogenesis of neovascularization in Harada’s disease is unclear. The low grade inflammations acts as a stimulus and can induce disc neovascularization even in the absence of vascular occlusion. ONH vessels appear to be more susceptible to developing NVD than retinal vessels in presence of chronic inflammation.
Lowered Cognitive Function and the Risk of the First Events of Cardiovascular Diseases: Findings from the Cohort Study in Lithuania
Authors: Luksiene Dalia , Sapranaviciute-Zabazlajeva Laura , Tamosiunas Abdonas , Radisauskas Ricardas , Bobak Martin
Published: March 2021

Background: The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to examine whether the level of cognitive function at the baseline expressed as a cognitive function composite score and score of specific domains predict the risk of first cardiovascular diseases (CVD) events in the middle-aged and older population.Methods: 7,087 participants, men and women aged 45-72 years, were assessed in the baseline survey of the Health Alcohol Psychosocial Factors in Eastern Europe (HAPIEE) study in 2006–2008 in Kaunas city, Lithuania. During 10 years of follow-up, the risk of first non-fatal events of CVD and death from CVD (excluding those participants with a documented history of CVD and/or ischemic heart disease (IHD) diagnosed at baseline survey) was evaluated. Results: During the follow-up, there were 156 deaths from CVD (49 women and 107 men) and 464 first non-fatal CVD events (195 women and 269 men) registered. The total number of first CVD events was 620 (11.5%). After adjustment for sociodemographic factors, biological and lifestyle risk factors, and illnesses, a decrease per 1 standard deviation in different cognitive function scores significantly increased risk of the first event of CVD (immediate verbal recall score - by 17% in men and 32% in women; delayed verbal recall score – by 17% in men and 24% in women; and a composite score of cognitive function – by 15% in men and 29% in women). Kaplan-Meier survival curves for the probability of the first cardiovascular event according to the categories of a composite score of cognitive function, revealed that the lowered cognitive function predicts a higher probability of the events compared to normal cognitive function (p < 0.05).Conclusions: The findings of this follow-up study suggest that men and women with lower cognitive functions have an increased risk for the first event of CVD compared to participants with a higher level of cognitive functions.
Hydrogeochemical characteristics and genesis of Seismic observation wells in Shandong Province
Authors: Su Shujuan , Chen Qifeng , Zou Chunhong , Du Guilin , Wang Heqian , Feng Enguo , Yan Bingdun
Published: March 2021

Hydrogeochemical characteristics, controlling factors, and recharge sources of the seismic observation wells in Shandong Province were investigated by analyzing cation and anion concentrations, hydrogen and oxygen isotopes in well water. A total of 17 water samples in seismic observation wells were collected on April 25-29, 2018. The results show that temperatures of seismic observation wells were in the range of 14.8 to 52.1°C, and the values of δD and δ 18 O ranged from -72.4‰ to -37.9‰ and from -9.4‰ to -4.3‰, respectively. Using C.A. ЩукаЛев’s classification method, the water samples of 17 seismic observation wells were classiﬁed into 7 types: Cl·SO 4 -Na·Ca, SO 4 -Na, Cl-Na, HCO 3 -Na·Ca, HCO 3 -Mg·Na·Ca, HCO 3 -Na and HCO 3 -Mg·Ca·Na. The results indicate that the hydrogeochemical characteristics of 17 seismic observation wells, with a certain spatial distribution pattern, are affected by several factors, such as the tectonic, topography, stratigraphy, hydrology and meteorology. The analyses of ratio coefficients, Schooller diagram, hydrogen and oxygen isotopes compositions, Giggenbach and Gibbs diagram suggest that the atmospheric precipitation is the main recharge source of 17 observation wells. The recharge sources of deep lateral runoff and sedimentation water, moreover, play a significant role in some seismic observation wells. Combined with the amount of precipitation, the distance from recharge areas, the closure degree of observation wells and the stage of water-rock reactions, the development directions of faulting and topography control the directions of groundwater recharge, runoff and discharge, which make hydrogeochemical characteristics represent complex spatial distribution rules.
An exploratory study of the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of community health worker programmes in conflict-affected South Sudan.
Authors: Lutwama George William , Kok Maryse , Jacobs Eelco
Published: March 2021

Background: Community health workers (CHWs) are crucial for increasing access to health services to communities. Due to decades of conflict and under-funding, access to health care in South Sudan remains severely limited. To improve equitable access to healthcare, the government has introduced “the Boma Health Initiative (BHI)”, a strategy to harmonise community health programmes across the country. In order to scale up the BHI, it is necessary to assess the recent CHW programmes and draw lessons for future implementation. This study aimed to explore the characteristics, barriers, and facilitators to the implementation of CHW interventions in South Sudan between 2011 and 2019.Methods: The study used a qualitative approach drawing from 26 key informant interviews and a scoping review of 21 Health Pooled Fund (HPF) programme reports from October 2016 to June 2018 and policy documents from 2011 to 2019. The results were thematically analysed based on a conceptual framework on factors influencing the performance of CHWs.Results: Funding of CHW programmes has come from international donors, channelled through non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that have implemented a variety of CHW programmes. Communities have been participating in the selection of voluntary CHWs, intervention areas, and occasionally in the supervision of activities performed by CHWs. The coordination mechanisms among stakeholders have been weak, leading to wastage and duplication of resources. Although training of CHWs is done, training duration was short, and refresher-trainings were rare. There were and still are disparities in the type of incentives provided to CHWs. Monitoring and supportive supervision activities have been insufficient; drug misuse and stock-outs were common. Conclusion: Despite their challenges, CHW programmes can be implemented in conflict-affected South Sudan if the local human capital is leveraged and engaged by NGOs as implementing partners. Robust coordination efforts are required to build synergies among stakeholders for the effective implementation of the BHI strategy.
A Single Intravenous Infusion of Human Choriodecidual Mesenchymal Stem Cell Decreases Early Burn Mortality in a Rodent Model
Authors: Yeong Eng-Kean , Ling Thai-Yen
Published: March 2021

Background:Systemic inflammatory responses (SIR) are the main cause of pulmonary dysfunction leading to mortality within hours of extensive burns. Based on previous studies showing that cell entrapment occurs in the lungs following the infusion of human choriodecidual mesenchymal stem cells (hcMSCs), we hypothesize that the intravenous infusion of hcMSCs, with an immunomodulatory potential, will decrease the risk of SIR induced pulmonary failure leading to mortality in burn patients. Methods:Forty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into two groups. Group A (sham control, n = 10) received no injury or intervention; the remaining rats (n = 30) were subjected to burns covering 40 % of the total body surface area by immersion of the dorsum in 100 °C water for 15 s under general anesthesia. Injured rats were further randomized into different treatment groups: Group B (saline only control, n = 10), Group C (saline plus culture medium control, n = 10), and Group D (saline plus 2 × 106 hcMSCs, n = 10). Culture medium or hcMSCs were given in a single infusion via the tail vein immediately after burns. Mortality was evaluated on post-burn days 7 and 14. Results:The overall mortality among injured rats was 30 % (9/30). In the first week post-injury, four rats in Group C and three in Group B versus none in Group D died. In the second week, one rat in both Groups C and D died. Altogether, mortality among Group D rats was 10 %, significantly lower than that in groups B and C combined (40 %; p<0.001).Conclusions:We show that a single intravenous infusion of 2 × 106 hcMSCs decreased burn mortality in a severely burned animal model. However, clinical translation requires additional studies to exclude potential adverse effects and to determine the optimal dosage and timing of administration.
Associations between self-rated oral health, subjective oral conditions, oral health behaviours and oral health-related quality of life among college students: A study using structural equation modelling
Authors: Yin Nan , Zheng Suge , Ju Nianting , Hua Tiantian , Ding Wei , Zhang Wei , Zhou Haoyun , Zhang Yanyong , Li Wenhao , Ge Hui , Zhang Shunhua , Liao Shengkai
Published: March 2021

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between self-rated oral health, subjective oral conditions, oral health behaviours, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Chinese college students.Methods: We conducted an online cross-sectional survey inviting college students from eastern China. A total of 1,708 participants were included. We constructed a structural equation model to explain and assess the associations among self-rated oral health, subjective oral conditions, oral health behaviours, and OHRQoL.Results: Self-rated oral health had a direct positive effect on subjective oral conditions and OHRQoL. Oral health behaviours had a direct negative effect on subjective oral conditions and OHRQoL, while oral health behaviours had a direct negative effect on tooth condition perception and oral health interventions. Subjective oral conditions had a direct positive effect on OHRQoL. There was a positive correlation between oral health behaviours and self-rated oral health. In addition, subjective oral conditions partially mediated both the effect of oral health behaviours on OHRQoL and the effect of self-rated oral health on OHRQoL.Conclusion: There were influential associations between self-rated oral health, subjective oral conditions, oral health behaviours, and OHRQoL among college students in eastern China.
Intubation Timing as Determinant of Outcome in Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome by SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Vera Magdalena , Kattan Eduardo , Born Pablo , Rivas Elizabeth , Amthauer Macarena , Nesvadba Annael , Lara Barbara , Rao Isabel , Espíndola Eduardo , Rojas Luis , Hernández Glenn , Bugedo Guillermo , Castro Ricardo
Published: March 2021

Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection presents in many cases with pneumonia and respiratory failure. It is not clear whether the time of intubation and connection to mechanical ventilation (MV) in this condition is associated with an increase in mortality or represents the natural course of the disease.We conducted an observational, prospective, single-center study to describe the characteristics and outcomes of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients with confirmed COVID-19 and treated with invasive MV to determine whether the time-to-intubation following hospital admission is associated with worse outcomes.Methods: We prospectively included consecutive patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and moderate to severe ARDS, admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) and connected to MV between March 17 and July 31, 2020. We examined their general characteristics, ventilatory management, and clinical outcomes. Time of intubation was defined as the time from hospital admission to endotracheal intubation and was categorized as early (<72 hours) or late (≥72 hours). Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis, chi-square, and Fisher’s exact, were used when appropriate. Uni and multivariate analyses between main outcome and explanatory variables were performed.Results: A total of 183 consecutive patients were included, 28% (51/183) were female, and their median age was 62 years [54-70]. One hundred (55%) patients were subjected to early and 83 (45%) to late intubation. Patients intubated after 72 hours were older and presented more comorbidities. Mortality was higher in the group of patients with late intubation (41% versus 21%; p= 0.002), a PaO2/FiO2 ratio <100 mmHg at admission (p= 0.029), and that were older than 60 years (p= 0.008).ConclusionsIn acute COVID-19 patients with moderate to severe ARDS, intubation after 72 hours following hospital admission, age >60 years-old and a PaO2/FiO2 ratio <100 at admission may appear to be associated with increased ICU mortality. Further studies are required to confirm our findings and establish the best timing for intubation in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU with respiratory failure.
Macrophage conditioned media promotes adipocyte cancer-association, which in turn stimulates breast cancer proliferation and migration
Authors: Bosco Dale B. , Ren Yi , Vallega Karin A. , Sang Qing-Xiang Amy
Published: March 2021

Background Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the leading cause of female cancer deaths worldwide. Obesity causes chronic inflammation and is a risk factor for post-menopausal breast cancer and poor prognosis. Obesity triggers increased infiltration of macrophages into adipose tissue, yet little research has focused on the effects of macrophages in early stages of breast tumor development in obese patients. In this study, the effects of pro-inflammatory macrophages on breast cancer-adipocyte crosstalk were investigated.Methods An innovative human cell co-culture system was used to model the paracrine interactions among adipocytes, macrophages, and breast cancer cells, and how they facilitate tumor progression. The effects on cancer cells were examined using cell counts and migration assays. Quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the expression levels of several cytokines and proteases to analyze adipocyte cancer-association.Results Macrophage conditioned media intensified the effects of breast cancer-adipocyte crosstalk. Adipocytes became delipidated and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, even in the absence of cancer cells, although the expression levels were highest with all three cell components. As a result, co-cultured breast cancer cells became more aggressive, with increased proliferation and migration compared to adipocyte-breast cancer co-cultures treated with unconditioned media.Conclusions Macrophage conditioned media promotes adipocyte cancer-association. These macrophage-adipocyte paracrine interactions promote breast cancer cell proliferation and migration. Thus, macrophages may contribute to adipocyte inflammation and cancer-association and promote breast cancer progression.