bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demand- and Supply-side Factors Associated with the Use of Contraceptive Methods in Pakistan: A Contemplative Study of Demographic and Health Surveys, 1990–2018
Authors: Jabeen Sadia , Rathor Adnan , Riaz Maria , Zakar Rubeena , Fischer Florian
Published: October 2020

Background: A remarkable decline in fertility rates has been observed in many countries, with a primary determinant being an increase in the use of contraceptives. However, the birth rate in Pakistan is still higher compared to the other countries of the region. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effect of demand- and supply-side factors associated with the use of contraceptive measures in Pakistan.Method: Secondary data analysis of four data series of the Pakistan Demographic and Health Surveys (PDHS 1990–91, 2006–07, 2012–13 and 2017–18) were used. The data includes ever-married women aged 15–49 years who had given birth in the previous five years and participated in the family planning module of the PDHS. A total of 25,318 women were included in the analysis. Data were analysed by investigating the associations between independent variables (demand- and supply-side factors) and the use of contraceptive measures through unadjusted odds ratios (OR) and adjusted OR (AOR).Results: The results among demand-side factors indicated that in 2012–13, women without media exposure were less likely to use contraceptives and the trend remains almost constant for 2017–18 (AOR = 0.664, 95 % CI: 0.562–0.784) in 2012–13 and (AOR = 0.654, 95 % CI: 0.483–0.885) in 2017–18; however, they still show a lower likelihood of using contraceptives without media exposure. The results among supply-side factors indicated that absence of transport (2012–13) and limited visits by family planning workers over the previous 12 months (2006–07, 2012–13 and 2017–18) remained significant factors for not using contraceptive methods.Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that certain demand- and supply-side factors are associated with the use of contraceptive measures in Pakistan. It highlights the need for the provision of family planning resources and further structural factors, particularly in remote areas.
Incidence of Airway Complications Associated with Deep Extubation in Adults
Authors: Juang Jeremy , Cordoba Martha , Ciaramella Alex , Xiao Mark , Goldfarb Jeremy , Bayter Jorge Enrique , Macias Alvaro Andres
Published: October 2020

Background: Endotracheal extubation is the most crucial step during emergence from general anesthesia and is usually carried out when patients are awake with return of airway reflexes. Alternatively, extubations can also be accomplished while patients are deeply anesthetized, a technique known as “deep extubation”, in order to provide a “smooth” emergence from anesthesia. Deep extubation is seldomly performed in adults, even in appropriate circumstances, likely due to concerns for potential respiratory complications and limited research supporting its safety. It is in this context that we designed our prospective study to understand the factors that contribute to the success or failure of deep extubation in adults. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 300 patients, age ≥ 18, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA PS) Classification I - III, who underwent head-and-neck and ocular surgeries. Patients’ demographic, comorbidity, airway assessment, O2 saturation, end tidal CO2 levels, time to exit OR, time to eye opening, and respiratory complications after deep extubation in the OR were analyzed. Results: Forty (13%) out of 300 patients had at least one complication in the OR, as defined by persistent coughing, desaturation SpO2 < 90% for longer than 10s, laryngospasm, stridor, bronchospasm and reintubation. When comparing the complication group to the no complication group, the patients in the complication group had significantly higher BMI (30 vs 26), lower O2 saturation pre and post extubation, and longer time from end of surgery to out of OR (p<0.05). Conclusions: The complication rate during deep extubation in adults was relatively low compared to published reports in the literature and all easily reversible. BMI is possibly an important determinant in the success of deep extubation.
Analysis and Prediction of COVID-19 Pandemic in Bangladesh by using Long short-term memory network (LSTM) and Adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system(ANFIS)
Authors: Chowdhury Anjir Ahmed , Hasan Khandaker Tabin , Hoque Khadija Kubra Shahjalal
Published: October 2020

Objectives: The dangerously contagious virus named SARS-CoV-2 has hit the world hard that has locked downed billion people in their homes for stopping fur- ther spread. All the researchers and scientists in various fields are working around the clock to come up with a vaccine and prevention methods to save the world from this invisible pathogen. However, reliable prediction of the epidemic may help contain the contagion until cure becomes available. The machine learning techniques is one of the frontier in predicting the future trend and behavior of this outbreak. Our research is focused on finding a suitable machine learning model that can pre- dict on small dataset with higher accuracy.Methods: In this research, we have used the Adap- tive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and the long short-term memory[LSTM] to foresee the newly infected cases in Bangladesh. We have compared both the results of the experiments and it can be forenamed that LSTM has shown more satisfactory results.Results: Upon study and testing on several models, we have showed that LSTM works better on scenario based model for Bangladesh with MAPE 4.51, RMSE6.55 and Correlation Coefficient 0.75.Conclusion: This study is expected to shade light on Covid-19 prediction models for researchers working with machine learning techniques and help avoid proven failures specially for small imprecise dataset.
Genome-wide identification, and phylogenetic and expression profiling analyses, of XTH gene families in Brassica rapa L. and Brassica oleracea L.
Authors: Wu Di , Liu Anqi , Qu Xiaoyu , Liang Jiayi , Song Min
Published: October 2020

Background: Xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase genes ( XTHs ) are a multigene family and play key roles in regulating cell wall extensibility in plant growth and development. Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea contain XTHs, but detailed identification and characterization of the XTH family in these species, and analysis of their tissue expression profiles, have not previously been carried out. Results: In this study, 53 and 38 XTH genes were identified in B. rapa and B. oleracea respectively, which contained some novel members not observed in previous studies. All XTHs of B. rapa , B. oleracea and Arabidopsis thaliana could be classified into three groups, Group I/II, III and the Early diverging group, based on phylogenetic relationships. Gene structures and motif patterns were similar within each group. All XTHs in this study contained two characteristic conserved domains (Glyco_hydro and XET_C). XTHs are located mainly in the cell wall but some are also located in the cytoplasm. Analyses of the mechanisms of gene family expansion revealed that whole-genome triplication (WGT) events and tandem duplication (TD) may have been the major mechanisms accounting for the expansion of the XTH gene family. Interestingly, TD genes all belonged to Group I/II, suggesting that TD was the main reason for the largest number of genes being in these groups. B. oleracea had lost more of the XTH genes, the conserved domain XET_C and the conserved active-site motif EXDXE compared with B. rapa , consistent with asymmetrical evolution between the two Brassica genomes. A majority of XTH genes exhibited different tissue-specific expression patterns based on RNA-seq data analyses. Moreover, there was differential expression of duplicated XTH genes in the two species, indicating that their functional differentiation occurred after B. rapa and B. oleracea diverged from a common ancestor. Conclusions: We carried out the first systematic analysis of XTH gene families in B. rapa and B. oleracea . The results of this investigation can be used for reference in further studies on the functions of XTH genes and the evolution of this multigene family.
Chest X-ray image analysis and classification for COVID-19 pneumonia detection using Deep CNN
Authors: Gao Terry
Published: October 2020

To speed up the discovery of COVID-19 disease mechanisms by X-ray images, this research developed a new diagnosis platform using a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) that is able to assist radiologists with diagnosis by distinguishing COVID-19 pneumonia from non-COVID-19 pneumonia in patients based on chest X-ray classification and analysis. Such a tool can save time in interpreting chest X-rays and increase the accuracy and thereby enhance our medical capacity for the detection and diagnosis of COVID-19. The research idea is that a set of X-ray medical lung images (which include normal, infected by bacteria, infected by virus including COVID-19) are used to train a deep CNN that can distinguish between the noise and the useful information and then uses this training to interpret new images by recognizing patterns that indicate certain diseases such as coronavirus infection in the individual images. The supervised learning method is used as the process of learning from the training dataset and can be thought of as a doctor supervising the learning process. It becomes more accurate as the number of analyzed images grows, and the average accuracy is above 95%. In this way, it imitates the training for a doctor, but the theory is that since it is capable of learning from a far larger set of images than any human, it can have the potential of being more accurate.
BMI, Waist to Height Ratio and Waist Circumference as a screening tool for Hypertension in Hospital out Patients: A Cross-Sectional, Non-inferiority study
Authors: Shrestha Rajan , Upadhyay Sanjib K. , Khatri Bijay , Bhattarai Janak R. , Kayastha Manish , Upadhyay Madan P.
Published: October 2020

BackgroundObesity has become a global epidemic and an important risk factor for non-communicable diseases. Earlier thought to be a problem in the developed world, it has become a problem in low-and middle-income countries, including Nepal. In the absence of routine surveillance or a registry system, the actual burden and trend of obesity in Nepal is unknown. Obesity and overweight are recognized as risk factors for hypertension and associated with cardiovascular diseases. The study aimed to find out the burden of obesity, using three commonly employed metrics in the hospital outpatient setting of a developing country as predictors of hypertension, and compare the ability of different anthropometric measurements through a non-inferiority study to predict hypertension.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted among 40-69 years outpatients in a tertiary Eye, and ENT hospital in a semi-urban area of Nepal among randomly selected 2,256 participants from 6,769 outpatients evaluated in Health Promotion and Risk Factor Screening Service. We did a correlation analysis to determine the relationship between anthropometric measurement and blood pressure. The area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve of Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist to Height Ratio (WHtR), and Waist Circumference (WC) was calculated and compared.ResultsThe prevalence of obesity and overweight by BMI was 16.09% and 42.20%, respectively; by WHtR was 32.76%, which is two times higher than obesity measured by BMI. High WC was observed among 66.76% of participants. Female participants had a greater prevalence of high WC (77.46%) than males (53.73%) (p<0.001). Prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension was 40.67% and 36.77%, respectively. The areas under the curve were significantly higher than 0.5 for BMI (0.593), WHtR (0.602), and WC (0.610).ConclusionWC correlated well with obesity and hypertension. It also had a higher predicting ability than WHtR and BMI to predict hypertension. WC thus proved to be non-inferior to two other commonly used metrics. It proved superior in detecting obesity in female. This inexpensive and simple non-tension tape measurement may play an important role in future diagnosis of obesity and prediction of HTN in resource-constrained settings of developing countries.
The higher expression of monocyte chemotactic protein 1 in mild COVID-19 patients is correlation with the inhibition of IFN signaling
Authors: Xi Xueyan , Guo Yang , Zhu Min , Wei Yuhui , Li Gang , Du Boyu , Wang Yunfu
Published: October 2020

Background: The level of chemokine was markedly elevated in severe COVID-19 patients. But the role of chemokine in mild COVID-19 has not yet been established. However, most of the COVID-19 patients in Shiyan City, China, had mild cases. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the level of chemokine in mild COVID-19 patients and to explore the correlation between chemokine and host immune response.Methods: In this study, the level of chemokine in the serum for COVID-19 patients in Shiyan City was detected by ELISA. The expression of chemokine receptor and other signal molecular was detected by real-time PCR. Results: We first demonstrated that COVID-19 patients are characterized by higher levels of chemokine. Meanwhile, monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) has shown higher expression in patients with mild cases of COVID-19. The receptor of MCP-1, CCR2 was also found to be expressed at higher levels in the same mild COVID-19 patients. Finally, the higher expression of MCP-1 in mild COVID-19 patients is correlated with the inhibition of IFN signaling. Conclusion: These findings add to our understanding of the immune-pathologic mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and provide potential therapeutic targets and strategies. MCP-1 may be an effective indicator in mild patients, and early use of interferon has a good antiviral therapeutic effect.
Long-term Outcomes of Patients with Anti–Leucine-Rich Glioma-Inactivated 1 Encephalitis
Authors: Qiao Shan , Wu Huai-kuan , Liu Ling-ling , Zang Ke-jun , liu Xuewu
Published: October 2020

Background: This report aims to provide a detailed description of the clinical manifestation, immunotherapy, and long-term outcomes of 117 Chinese patients with anti-leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 (LGI1) encephalitis. Methods: We retrospectively selected 117 patients diagnosed with anti-LGI1 encephalitis from the databases of multiple clinical centers from September 2014 to December 2019. The clinical features, ancillary test results, and details of long-term outcomes were analyzed.Results: Among the 117 anti-LGI1 encephalitis patients, 81 (69%) were male and 36 (31%) were female; the median onset age was 51 years (range: 30-77 years). The median time from symptom onset until diagnosis was 8.7 weeks (range: 2-49 weeks). The main features evaluated in our cohort were seizures, cognitive impairment, and mental and behavioral abnormalities. One hundred and nine patients were treated with immunotherapy, After 3-5 days of treatment, the clinical symptoms were somewhat alleviated in all the patients, and their memory, mental ability, and behavior improved. The median follow-up time was 33 months (range: 6-59 months). A total of 19 (16%) patients experienced a relapse; the median duration from onset to the first relapse was 5 (0.3-27) months. There were no mortalities during the follow-up period.Conclusions: The outcome of patients with anti-LGI1 encephalitis is mostly favorable, although some patients continue to suffer from cognitive dysfunction. Early recognition is of great significance for the treatment of anti-LGI1 encephalitis. Prompt adequate immunotherapy has positive implications for the improvement of clinical symptoms of anti-LGI1 encephalitis. Long-term follow-up is important for the assessment of LGI1 antibody-mediated encephalitis.
Apoptosis Repressor with Caspase Domain (ARC) Promotes Bone Regeneration of Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells via Activating Fgf-2/PI3K/Akt Signaling
Authors: Hu Longwei , Wang Yang , Pan Hongya , Kadir Kathreena , Wen Jin , Li Siyi , Zhang Chenping
Published: October 2020

Objectives:This study aims to investigate whether ARC could promote survival and enhance osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).Material and methods:Lentivirus transfection method was used to establish ARC overexpressed BMSCs. CCK-8 method was used to detect cell proliferation. The BD Pharmingen™ APC Annexin V Apoptosis Detection kit was used to detect cell apoptosis. The osteogenic capacity was investigated by OCN immunofluoresence staining, ALP, ARS assay and RT-PCR analysis. Cells were seeded into CPC scaffolds, then inserted into subcutaneous of nude mice and the defect area of rat’s calvarium. Histological analysis was conducted to evaluate in vivo cell apoptosis and new bone formation ability of ARC overexpressed BMSCs. RNA-seq method was used to detect the possible mechanism of the effect of ARC on BMSCs. Results:ARC can promote BMSCs proliferation and inhibit its cell apoptosis. ARC can enhance BMSCs osteogenic differentiation in vitro. In vivo study revealed ARC can inhibit BMSCs’ apoptosis and increase its new bone formation ability. ARC regulates BMSCs mainly by activating Fgf-2/PI3K/Akt pathway.Conclusions: The present study suggested that ARC is a powerful agent to promote bone regeneration of BMSCs and provides a promising method for bone tissue engineering.
Realtime forecasting of COVID 19 cases in Karnataka state using Artificial neural network (ANN)
Authors: Shetty Rashmi P , P Srinivasa Pai
Published: October 2020

COVID-19 is a pandemic that has caused lot of deaths and infections in the last 6 months and is showing an increasing trend not only in the number of infections and deaths, but also in the recovery rate. Accurate prediction models are very much essential to make proper forecasts and take necessary actions. This study demonstrates the capability of Multilayer Perceptron (MLP, an ANN model for forecasting the number of infected cases in the state of Karnataka in India. It is trained using a fast training algorithm namely, Extreme Learning machine (ELM) to reduce the training time required. The parameters required for the forecasting model have been selected using partial autocorrelation function (PACF), which is a conventional method and its performance has been compared with parameters selected using cuckoo search (CS) algorithm, which is a very popular nature-inspired optimization algorithm. The testing of the forecasting model has been done and comparison between the two parameter selection methods has been carried out. Use of CS algorithm has resulted in a better forecasting performance based on mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), with a value of 6.62 % on training data and 7.03% on the test data. Further to check the efficacy of the model, the data of COVID-19 cases of Hungary from 4th March to 19th April 2020 has been used, which resulted in a MAPE of 1.55%, thereby establishing the robustness of the proposed ANN model for forecasting COVID-19 cases for the state of Karnataka.
Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibodies Using a Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Possessing SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Tani Hideki , Tan Long , Kimura Miyuki , Yoshida Yoshihiro , Yamada Hiroshi , Fukushi Shuetsu , Saijo Masayuki , Kawasuji Hitoshi , Ueno Akitoshi , Miyajima Yuki , Fukui Yasutaka , Sakamaki Ippei , Yamamoto Yoshihiro , Morinaga Yoshitomo
Published: October 2020

Background:SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus that emerged in 2019 and is now classified in the genus Coronavirus with closely related SARS-CoV. SARS-CoV-2 is highly pathogenic in humans and is classified as a biosafety level (BSL)-3 pathogen, which makes manipulating it relatively difficult due to its infectious nature. Methods:To circumvent the need for BSL-3 laboratories, an alternative assay was developed that avoids live virus and instead uses a recombinant VSV expressing luciferase and possesses the full length or truncated spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, to measure SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies under BSL2 conditions, a chemiluminescence reduction neutralization test (CRNT) for SARS-CoV-2 was developed. The neutralization values of the serum samples collected from hospitalized patients with COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 PCR-negative donors against the pseudotyped virus infection evaluated by the CRNT were compared with antibody titers determined from an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Results:The CRNT, which used whole blood collected from hospitalized patients with COVID-19, was also examined. As a result, the inhibition of pseudotyped virus infection was specifically observed in both serum and whole blood and was also correlated with the results of the IFA. Conclusions:In conclusion, the CRNT for COVID-19 is a convenient assay system that can be performed in a BSL-2 laboratory with high specificity and sensitivity for evaluating the occurrence of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2.
Assessment of Molecular Markers of Anti-malarial Drug Resistance in Pfk13-propeller, Pfcrt and Pfmdr1 Genes in Plasmodium Falciparum Isolated From Patients Returning for Malaria Retreatment in Democratic Republic of Congo 
Authors: Yobi Doudou Malekita , Kayiba Nadine K. , Mvumbi Dieudonné M. , Boreux Raphael , Kabututu Pius Z. , Situakibanza Hippolyte NT. , Umesumbu Solange E. , De Mol Patrick , Speybroeck Niko , Mvumbi Georges L. , Hayette Marie-Pierre
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) malaria treatment policy recommends two first-line artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria: Artesunate-amodiaquine (ASAQ) and Artemether-lumefantrine (AL). This study investigated resistance to the ACTs currently in use in DRC through molecular markers in pfk13, pfcrt and pfmdr1 genes in Plasmodium falciparum isolated from patients returning for malaria retreatment. MethodsFrom November 2018 to November 2019, dried blood spots were taken from patients returning to health structures for fever within 28 days after an initial malaria treatment in 6 sentinel sites of National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP) across DRC. The new episode of malaria was first detected by a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) and then confirmed by a real-time PCR assay. Fragments of interest in pfk13 and pfcrt genes were amplified by conventional PCR before sequencing and Pfmdr1 gene copy number was determined by a TaqMan real-time PCR assay. ResultsOut of 474 enrolled patients, 364 (76.8%) were confirmed positive by PCR for P. falciparum. Of the 325 P. falciparum isolates successfully sequenced in pfk13-propeller gene, 7 (2.2%) carried non-synonymous (NS) mutations among which 3 previously reported (N498I, N554K and A557S) and 4 not yet reported (F506L, E507V, D516E and G538S). Of the 335 isolates successfully sequenced in pfcrt gene, 139 (41.5%) harbored the K76T mutation known to be associated with CQ resistance. The SVMNT haplotype associated with resistance to AQ has not been found. None of the isolates carried increased copy number of pfmdr1 gene among the 322 P. falciparum isolates successfully analyzed.ConclusionNo molecular marker known to date as associated with resistance to first-line ACTs in use was detected in P. falciparum isolated in patients returning for retreatment. Regular monitoring through in vivo drug efficacy and molecular studies must continue to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment of malaria in DRC.
Dense time-course gene expression profiling of the Drosophila melanogaster innate immune response
Authors: Schlamp Florencia , Delbare Sofie , Early Angela M. , Wells Martin T. , Basu Sumanta , Clark Andrew G.
Published: October 2020

BackgroundImmune responses need to be initiated rapidly, and maintained as needed, to prevent establishment and growth of infections. At the same time, resources need to be balanced with other physiological processes. On the level of transcription, studies have shown that this balancing act is reflected in tight control of the initiation kinetics and shutdown dynamics of specific immune genes. ResultsTo investigate expression dynamics and trade-offs after infection genome-wide and with high temporal resolution, we performed an RNA-seq time course on D. melanogaster with 20 time points post-LPS injection. A combination of methods, including spline fitting, cluster analysis, and Granger Causality inference, allowed detailed dissection of expression profiles, lead-lag interactions, and functional annotation of genes through guilt-by-association. We identified genes encoding antimicrobial peptides and co-expressed, less well characterized genes, as immediate-early response genes with a sustained up-regulation up to five days after stimulation. In contrast, stress response genes and additional immune genes, among which were Bomanins, demonstrated early and transient responses. We further observed a strong trade-off with metabolic genes, which strikingly recovered to pre-infection levels before the immune response was fully resolved. ConclusionsThis high-dimensional dataset enabled the comprehensive study of immune response dynamics through the parallel application of multiple temporal data analysis methods. Multivariate Granger causality analysis proved to be a valuable addition to classical time course analysis methods such as clustering, due to its ability to define directed networks of lead-lag patterns.
Lung cancer with partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection in a different lobe: A case report
Authors: Watanabe Hikaru , Kanauchi Naoki
Published: October 2020

Background: Anomalous pulmonary venous connection (APVC) is a congenital malformation in which the pulmonary veins connect to the systemic venous system but not to the left atrium. APVC can be classified as total or partial (PAPVC). PAPVC is rare among surgical patients with lung cancer, and most cases are detected incidentally during surgery. We herein report a patient with lung cancer in whom PAPVC was diagnosed before surgery, which made it difficult to determine the surgical procedure.Case presentation: A 71-year-old man was followed-up as an outpatient after surgery for renal cell carcinoma. Chest computed tomography showed a 22-mm nodule in the right lower lobe and PAPVC in the right upper lobe. He was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma (cT1cN0M0 stage IA3) and scheduled for surgery. Preoperative catheterization showed a pulmonary to systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs) of 1.64 and mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP) of 16 mmHg. Surgical repair of PAPVC is indicated when a patient is symptomatic and has a Qp/Qs ≥1.5–2.0. The patient was scheduled for right lower lobectomy, but postoperative worsening of right heart strain was considered. Concomitant PAPVC repair was therefore considered, but he had no atrial septal defect and was asymptomatic; therefore, PAPVC treatment was considered unnecessary. However, we planned to perform concomitant PAPVC repair if his circulatory dynamics worsened during surgery or if his MPAP exceeded 25 mmHg. His MPAP was 20 mmHg and his circulatory dynamics remained stable, and right lower lobectomy was therefore completed. His postoperative course was favorable. Follow-up catheterization at 6 months showed a Qp/Qs of 1.19 and MPAP of 18 mmHg, with no evidence of increased right heart strain. There was no evidence of right heart failure or recurrence of lung cancer at last follow-up at 18 months after surgery.Conclusions: We present a case of right lower lung cancer complicated by PAPVC in the right upper lobe. This case suggests that concomitant repair of PAPVC in the right upper lobe may not be necessary when performing right lower lobectomy, although the patient’s Qp/Qs and MPAP should be considered.
Characterization of 17th Century Papers from Valvasor's Collection of the Zagreb Archdiocese
Authors: Dragojevic Andreja , Tomažič Jedert Vodopivec , Gregor-Svetec Diana , Lozo Branka
Published: October 2020

Valvasor's library is a unique example of a 17th-century personal library, which also includes over 7.300 prints. Today, it is part of the Metropolitan Library of the Archdiocese of Zagreb. In this study, the 17th-century papers in Valvasor's collection of unknown origin and composition were analysed. In order to determine the composition of these papers, a dual approach was used, by combining results obtained by non-destructive and destructive analyses from two sets of samples. On 144 paper sheets from Valvasor’s collection only non-destructive analyses were performed, whereas both, non-destructive and destructive analyses were performed on the second set of samples, 10 historical paper fragments, dating from 16th to 19th centuries. Among non-destructive analyses, surface imaging, measurements of thickness, surface pH and optical properties (brightness, yellowness, opacity, and gloss) of papers were carried out. Optical properties characterized the samples as yellowish, opaque papers without gloss. Destructive analyses performed on the historical paper fragments went deeper into their composition and properties. Initially, spot tests were performed to determine absorbency, an identify lignin and starch in paper samples. Of the elementary analyses, SEM-EDS and XRF analyses for the identification of inorganic elements and FTIR analysis to identify chemical bonds in fibers, fillers, and sizes were applied. Microscopic analyses were performed in two ways - the paper surface was imaged with a digital microscope and the morphological characteristics of the fibers were studied using an optical microscope. Different fibers and components were discovered in fragments of historical papers, thus confirming their presence in handmade paper over four centuries. The dominant fibers were flax and hemp, with a smaller proportion of cotton. Also, thick and thin light brown fibers resembling straw were observed. The presence of calcium containing components, probably calcium carbonate as filler, gelatin and alumn could be confirmed. Relating the composition of historical papers with surface pH and optical properties of papers enabled us to predict the composition of 17th-century papers in Valvasor's collection.
Systematic Review of Radiological Analysis of Total Hip Replacement via Direct Anterior Approach in Comparison to Other Approaches – Study Protocol
Authors: Maciąg Bartosz , Radzimowski Kuba , Stępiński Piotr , Szymczak Jakub , Albrewczyński Tomasz , Stolarczyk Artur
Published: October 2020

Background Total hip arthroplasty (THR) is considered as the most effective available method of treatment of end-stage hip osteoarthritis (OA). This surgery can be performed via many different approaches. One of the newly developed technique is called direct anterior approach (DAA). It gains popularity and recognition as the least traumatic to the soft tissues, thus quickening rehabilitation and improving joint stability in the early postoperative period. There are no systematic reviews covering this subject in terms of potential differences in radiological prosthesis placement, and while there is still unsatisfactory evidence concerning long-term outcomes of DAA, such review may prove useful in the debate. The objective of our study was to systematically collect and review available data from randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) regarding radiographic assessment of prosthesis placement after total hip arthroplasty using direct anterior approach compared to other common approaches.Methods A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) will be conducted. SciFinder, Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Embase, Clinical Key and The Cochrane Library databases will be searched without restriction to date up to June 2020. Primary outcomes will include measurements related with the radiological analysis of trials comparing use of DAA to other approaches used for THR, containing at least two of the following: femoral stem alignment, mean radiographic cup inclination, mean radiographic cup anteversion, mean radiographic cup abduction, position in Lewinnek's safe zone. Study selection will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, and the methodological appraisal of the studies will be assessed by the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool for RCTs. Discussion This systematic review will provide missing information regarding influence of differences between DAA and other surgical approaches in total hip replacement on prosthesis implants placement in case of femoral stem and cup. This may result in improving knowledge and awareness of surgeons, improving patients satisfaction and functional outcome and lowering the risk of hip dislocations and other complications. Trial registration International Registration of Systematic reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42019122675
Predictors of Thrombocytopenia After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Retrospective Study at a Single Japanese Center
Authors: Yamada Yasutaka , Miura Daisuke , Takamori Ayako , Nogami Eijiro , Yunoki Junji , Sakaguchi Yoshiro
Published: October 2020

Objective: Thrombocytopenia is common after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and is associated with mortality and major complications, although the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This retrospective single-center study aimed to identify factors associated with the decrease in platelet count (DPC) after TAVI in Japanese patients. Patients with severe aortic valve stenosis who underwent transfemoral TAVI between March 2014 and August 2019 were grouped according to DPC values of <50% or ≥50% (DPC = 100%×[baseline platelet count–nadir platelet count]/[baseline platelet count]). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with a DPC of ≥50%.Results: Among the 131 patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI, 74 patients (56%) had a DPC of ≥50% and 57 patients (44%) had a DPC of <50%. Significant risk factors for a DPC of ≥50% were older age, lower body mass index (BMI), and use of balloon-expandable valves (BEV). The multivariable analysis revealed that a DPC of ≥50% was independently predicted by low BMI (adjusted odds ratio: 0.884, 95% confidence interval: 0.785–0.997; P=0.039) and BEV use (adjusted odds ratio: 3.014, 95% confidence interval: 1.003–9.056; P=0.045). Platelet count monitoring after TAVI, especially when using BEV devices, is essential for Japanese patients with low BMI.
Relationship Between the Triglyceride-glucose Index and Incident Ischemic Heart Disease Risk: A Prospective Study Using National Health Insurance Data
Authors: Park Byoungjin , Lee Yong-Jae , Lee Hye Sun , Jung Dong-Hyuk
Published: October 2020

Background: Ischemic heart disease (IHD) without diabetes is considered an important challenge to human health and is associated with a poor prognosis as well as a lack of health awareness. Until now, the association between early insulin resistance and IHD among nondiabetic adults has been poorly understood. We prospectively investigated the relationship between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, a surrogate marker of early insulin resistance, and incident IHD risk in a large cohort of nondiabetic adults using National Health Insurance data. Methods: We assessed 16,455 participants (8,426 men and 8,029 women) without diabetes using data from a health risk assessment study (HERAS) and Korea Health Insurance Review & Assessment (HIRA) data. The participants were divided into four groups according to TyG index quartiles, calculated as ln [fasting triglycerides (mg/dL) × fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL)/2]. We prospectively assessed hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for IHD, using multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression models, over a 50-month period that followed the baseline survey.Results: During the follow-up period, 322 (2.0%) participants developed IHD. HRs of IHD for TyG index quartiles 1–4 were 1.00, 1.63 (95% CI, 1.06–2.49), 1.88 (95% CI, 1.23–2.87), and 2.35 (95% CI, 1.53–3.61), respectively, after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol intake, physical activity, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, and mean arterial blood pressure.Conclusion: A higher TyG index precedes and significantly predicts future IHD among nondiabetic Koreans. Accordingly, a high TyG index may be a useful additional measure in assessing cardiovascular risks for apparently healthy adults in clinical practice.
High Fidelity Elastic Green's Functions for Subduction Zone Models Consistent With the Global Standard Geodetic Reference System
Authors: Hori Takane , Agata Ryoichiro , Ichimura Tsuyoshi , Fujita Kohei , Yamaguchi Takuma , Iinuma Takeshi
Published: October 2020

Green's functions (GFs) for elastic deformation due to unit slip on the fault plane comprise an essential tool for estimating earthquake rupture and underground preparation processes. These estimation results are often applied to generate important information for public such as seismic and tsunami hazard assessments. So, it is important to minimize the distortion of the estimation results on the numerical models used for calculating GFs to guarantee assessment reliability. For this purpose, we here calculated GFs based on a numerical model that is of high delity to obtain realistic topography and subsurface structural models of the Earth. We targeted two well-known subduction zones in Japan, the Nankai Trough and the Japan Trench. For these subduction zones, databases for realistic topography and subsurface structural models of the Earth are available in the \Japan integrated velocity structure model version 1", which was proposed for earthquake hazard assessments conducted by the Japanese government.Furthermore, in order to eliminate inconsistencies in data processing of the calculated and observed response, we used the same coordinate systems for processing GFs as those adopted widely to process space geodetic observation data for surface displacements. The ellipsoidal shape of the Earth, which is often approximated with a projected plane or a spherical shape, was also incorporated by faithfully following the denitions of the coordinate systems in Geodetic Reference System 1980, which is the global standard for space geodesy. To calculate elastic GFs based on such high delity subduction zone databases with the ellipsoidal shape of the Earth, we introduced the nite element (FE) method. In the FE meshes, the resolution of the topography and subsurface structure is the same as that of the original databases. Recent development of the state-of-the-art computation techniques for the rapid calculation of crustal deformation using large-scale FE models allows for GF calculation based on such a high delity model. However, it is generally not easy to perform such calculations. Thus, we released a library for the GFs calculated in this study to the geoscience community on a web server, aiming to contribute more reliable seismic and tsunami hazard assessment.
Inhibition of EZH2 by chidamide exerts antileukemia activity and increases chemosensitivity through Smo/Gli-1 pathway in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Jiang Xuejie , Jiang Ling , Cheng Jiaying , Chen Fang , Ni Jinle , Yin Changxin , Wang Qiang , Wang Zhixiang , Fang Dan , Yi Zhengshan , Yu Guopan , Zhong Qingxiu , Carter Bing Z , Meng Fanyi
Published: October 2020

Background: Dysregulation of epigenetics plays important roles in leukemogenesis and progression of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) reciprocally regulate acetylation and deacetylation of nuclear histone, aberrant activation of HDAC results in uncontrolled proliferation and differentiated blockage, HDAC inhibitors have been investigated as therapeutic drugs for treatment of AML. Methods: Cell growth was assessed by CCK-8 assay, apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry in AML cell lines, CD45+ and CD34+CD38- cells from patient’s samples after stained with Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/Propidium Iodide (PI). EZH2 expression was silenced by short hairpin RNA (shRNA). The pathway changes were detected by western blot. The effect of chidamide or EZH2 shRNA in combination with adriamycin was studies in vivo in nude mice model bearing leukemia.Results: In this study, we investigated the antileukemia activities of HDAC inhibitor chidamide and its combinatorial effect with cytotoxic agent in AML. We demonstrated in vitro and in vivo that chidamide suppressed expression of EZH2, exerted potential antileukemia activity and increased the sensitivity AML cells and AML stem/progenitor cells to chemotherapeutic drug through Smo/Gli-1 pathway. In addition to decrease the expression of H3K27me3 and DNMT3A, inhibition of EZH2 either pharmacologicall by chidamide or genetically by shEZH2 decreased the activity of Smo/Gli-1 pathway, and increased chemotherapeutic sensitivity in AML cells. Conclusions: Inhibition of EZH2 by chidamide has antileukemia activity and increases chemosensitivity, it provides a potential strategy to improve chemotherapeutic effect in AML.
SEAMHCRD deterministic compartmental model based on clinical stages of infection for COVID-19 pandemic in Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Varghese Abraham , Kolamban Shajidmon , Sherimon Vinu , Lacap Eduardo M. , Ahmed Saad Salman , Sreed Jagath Prasad , Harthy Hasina Al , Shuaily Huda Salim Al
Published: October 2020

The present novel corona virus (COVID-19) infection has engendered a worldwide crisis across the world in an enormous scale within a very short period. The effective solution for this pandemic is to recognize the nature and spread of the disease so that appropriate policies can be framed. Mathematical modelling is always at the forefront to understand and provide an adequate description about the transmission of any disease. In this research work, we have formulated a deterministic compartmental model (SEAMHCRD) including various stages of infection, such as Mild, Moderate, Severe and Critical to study the spreading of COVID-19 and estimated the model parameters by fitting the model with the reported data of ongoing pandemic in Oman. The steady state, stability and final pandemic size of the model has been proved mathematically. The various transmission as well as transition parameters are estimated during the period from June 8th - July 30th, 2020. Based on the current estimated parameters, the pandemic size is also predicted for another 100 days. Sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the key model parameters, and corresponding basic reproduction number has been computed using Next Generation Matrix (NGM) method. As the value of basic reproduction number (R0) is 0.9761 during the period from June 8th - July 30th, 2020, it is an indication for the policy makers to adopt appropriate remedial measures like social distancing and contact tracing to reduce the value of R0 to control the spread of the disease.
Sars-Cov-2 And Betacoronavirus: What Have We Learned In 8 Months?
Authors: Kwiatek Agnieszka , Adamczyk-Popławska Monika
Published: October 2020

In 2019, a new human pandemic coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan, China. We present the knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 compared to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. The SARS-CoV-2 is similar to other coronaviruses, nevertheless, differences were observed. Cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 is facilitated by cleavage of spike protein by furin. The receptor-binding motif of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein forms a larger binding interface and more contacts with host receptor ACE2 compared those of in SARS-CoV. Unlike other coronaviruses, the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein has a motif, known to bind integrins. Nucleocapsid protein and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase of SARS-CoV-2 display some structural differences compared to those of SARS-CoV as well. These features may increase the efficiency of the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and indicate the putative targets for specific antiviral therapy.

1. Taxonomy of Coronaviridae. 2. Structure of Betacoronavirus virion. 3. Genome of Betacoronavirus. 4. Proteins of Betacoronavirus. 5. Betacoronavirus replication cycle. 6. Pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. 6.1. Tissue and cellular pathogenesis. 6.2. Molecular basis of pathogenesis. 6.3. Immunopathological changes in COVID-19. 7. Conclusions
Microbiological Causes Of Defects In Fetal Development And Miscarriage
Authors: Matusiak Dominik M.
Published: October 2020

During pregnancy many agents can be teratogenic i.e. can be dangerous for embryo or fetus and cause differentiated adverse effects. Teratogenic agents include substances (e.g. many pharmaceuticals, mycotoxins – e.g. aflatoxins and ochratoxin A), radiation (e.g. X/RTG, γ) and infectious agents. The latter include bacteria (e.g. Listeria monocytogenes, Treponema pallidum), protozoa (e.g. Toxoplasma gondii) and viruses (e.g. ZIKV, parvovirus B19, herpesviruses: CMV, HSV, VZV). Quite a few pathogens can be vertically transmitted, i.e. through placenta (poorly understood mechanism), but not all are typical teratogenic agents (TORCH group). Infection during gestation can be oligosymptomatic or asymptomatic for the mother, nevertheless can also be fatal for the child, causing among others IUGR, SNHL, malformation (e.g. microcephaly, limb defects), abortion. Some (but not all) of these abnormalities can be non-invasively diagnosed by ultrasonography (USG) and prevented by vaccination (in case of the rubella and varicella). In some countries routine serological diagnostics for selected pathogens are performed during pregnancy. Generally transplacental transmission occur mostly during initial (primary) infection and are most dangerous during the first and second trimester (intensive morphogenesis and organogenesis). Conversely chance of fetus infection usually increases with time and is highest in the third trimester.

1. Introduction. 2. Placenta. 3. Preterm delivery and vaginosis. 4. TORCH group. 5. Teratogenic microorganisms and viruses. 5.1. Bacteria. 5.2. Protozoa. 5.3. Viruses. 6. Mycotoxins. 6.1. Description of selected mycotoxins. 7. Summary
Beneficial Effect Of Lactoferrin On The Microbiota From Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Artym Jolanta , Zimecki Michał
Published: October 2020

Our organism is colonized by trillions of symbiotic bacteria. The most numerous and varied bacterial population colonizes colon, upper respiratory airways and urogenital system. They act multidirectionally supporting our health. Symbiotic microbiota helps in acquirement of nutrients, regulates action of the immune system protecting mucosa and whole organism against pathogens, neutralizes some xenobiotics, thus acts as a preventive measure against carcinogenic mutations. This beneficial microbiota may be supported by uptake of probiotics and/or prebiotics in foods, diet supplements and drugs. They can be found in milk and dairy products, in particular fermented ones (e.g kefir, yoghurt and cheese), which contain both probiotics and prebiotics, including lactoferrin. This protein has a confirmed action promoting growth of symbiotic microbiota of intestine and urogenital tract. Such activity, associated with antimicrobial action regarding pathogenic microorganisms, restores equilibrium of microbiota within mucous membranes that effectively eliminates pathogens and inflammatory processes. Youngest children are supported by lactoferrin acquired with maternal milk. Later we can relay on our own, endogenous proteins, secreted by mucous membranes and neutrophils and supply of dairy products (not subjected to aggressive thermal processing) or diet supplements. We can find in the market the products containing lactoferrin alone, with another prebiotic, e.g inulin or oligosaccharides, and also with probiotics. Orally taken lactoferrin is effective as proved in a number of clinical studies. The protein is relatively resistant to digestion, may reach intestine, where acts on gut microbiota and local lymphoid tissue. In this way lactoferrin may enhance immunological status of our mucous system.

1. Introduction. 2. Gut microbiota. 3. Lactoferrin in gastrointestinal tract. 4. Prebiotic activity in gastrointestinal tract – in vitro tests. 5. Prebiotic activity in gastrointestinal tract – in vivo tests. 6. Lactoferrin in diet and nutritional supplements. 7. Summary