bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NDR1 functions as tumor suppressor in glioblastoma by phosphoralation of YAP
Authors: Chen Bin , Liu Bin , Yu Tao , Han Yunfeng , Wu Chao , Wang Zhenyu
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The NDR1(Nuclear Dbf2-related) kinase is a member of the NDR/LATS family which was a supplementary of Hippo pathway. However, whether NDR1 could inhibit glioblastoma (GBM) growth by phosphorylating YAP remains unknown. Meanwhile, the role of NDR1 in GBM was not clear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of NDR1-YAP pathway in GBM. Materials and Methods: Bioinformation analysis and immunohistochemistry was performed to identify the expression of NDR1 in GBM. The effect of NDR1 on cell proliferation and cell cycle was analyzed utilizing cck-8, clone formation, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry respectively. In addition, the xenograft tumor model was established as well. Protein interaction was examined by Co-ip and immunofluorescence. Results: Bioinformation analysis and immunohistochemistry of our petients’ tumor tissues showed that expression of NDR1 in tumor tissue was relatively lower than that in normal tissues and was positively related to lower survival rate. NDR1 could markedly reduce the proliferation, colony formation of U87 and U251. Furthermore, the results of flow cytometry showed that NDR1 led to cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Tumor growth was also inhibited in xenograft nude mouse models in NDR1-OE group. Western blotting and immunofluorescence showed that NDR1 could integrate with and phophoralate YAP at S127 site. Meanwhile, NDR1 could mediate apopptosis process. Conclusion: In summary, our findings pointed out that NDR1 functions as a tumor suppressor in GBM. NDR1 was identified as a novel regulator of YAP, which give us a in depth comprehension in Hippo signaling pathway.
Post-treatment Mac-2-Binding Protein is a Useful Predictor of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development after Hepatitis C Virus Eradication
Authors: Sato Shunsuke , Tsuzura Hironori , Kita Yuji , Ikeda Yuji , Kabemura Daishi , Sato Sho , Amano Nozomi , Yatagai Noboru , Murata Ayato , Shimada Yuji , Genda Takuya
Published: March 2021

Background and aims: Recent advances of direct-acting antiviral drugs for hepatitis C virus (HCV) have dramatically improved the sustained virologic response (SVR) rate, but hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development not rarely occurs even in patients who achieve an SVR. Wisteria ﬂoribunda agglutinin-positive Mac-2-binding protein (WFA+-M2BP) was recently developed as a noninvasive biomarker of liver fibrosis. However, the association between the WFA+-M2BP level and HCC development after the achievement of an SVR is unclear. Methods: We examined the association between WFA+-M2BP and HCC development in 552 HCV patients who achieved an SVR (Interferon [IFN]-based therapy, n=228; IFN-free therapy, n=294). Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that a high WFA+-M2BP level at SVR week 24 after treatment (SVR24) (hazard ratio [HR]=1.215, P=0.020), low platelet counts (HR=0.876, P=0.037) and old age (HR=1.073, P=0.012) were independent risk factors for HCC development regardless of the treatment regimen. Receiver operator characteristics curve analysis revealed that an WFA+-M2BP level at SVR24 of ≥1.62 cut off index (COI) was the cut-off value for the prediction of HCC development (adjusted HR = 12.565, 95% CI 3.501-45.092, P<0.001). The 3- and 5-year cumulative incidences of HCC were 0.7% and 0.7% in patients with low WFA+-M2BP at SVR24 (<1.62 COI), and 4.8% and 12.4% in patients with high WFA+-M2BP (≥1.62 COI) were, respectively (P<0.001).Conclusion: The assessment of liver fibrosis using the WFA+-M2BP level at SVR24 is a useful predictor of HCC development after HCV eradication even in the IFN-free therapy era.
Associations Between Reading and Writing Posture and Myopia Among School Students in Ningbo, China
Authors: Jiang Danjie , Shi Bijun , Gao Hua , Guo Yanbo , Zhou Shaoying , Zhang Yan
Published: March 2021

Purpose: We conducted this study to examine the prevalence of myopia among school students in Ningbo, and to explore the associations between reading and writing posture and myopia.Methods: A population-based and cross-sectional investigation was performed and 3256 school students aged 8 to 19 years old were recruited. Each enrolled subject underwent uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) assessment using a standard logarithmic visual acuity E chart and non-cycloplegic autorefraction examination. Self-administered questionnaires were used to investigate myopia-related reading and writing posture and behavior habits.Results: Myopia prevalence of primary school students, middle school students and high school students were 61.49%, 81.43% and 89.72%, respectively. In the associations between reading and writing posture and myopia, we identified keeping the distance between the eyes and the book could be the protective factor in female students, and in both primary school students and middle school students.Conclusions: Keeping appropriate distance between the eyes and the book may be good for myopia prevention and control. We hope this work will bring educational and public health benefits to form appropriate reading and writing posture.
Economic Feasibility Studies for Carbon Capture and Utilisation Technologies: A Tutorial Review
Authors: Assche Hanne Lamberts-Van , Compernolle Tine
Published: March 2021

Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) involves the capture and use of CO2 as a resource to create valuable products. The economic viability of CCU technologies is crucial for its implementation in real life. The competitiveness of various CCU technologies has been investigated frequently resulting in a variety of economic feasibility studies and economic indicators. This study performs a tutorial review, in which practical guidance is given on the implementation of TEAs for chemical CCU technologies. The tutorial review will critically examine the economic feasibility studies that have been performed in this field and will advise how these studies can be improved in the future. A thorough review of the literature set is performed, in which we evaluate the quality of the economic feasibility studies in the literature set by comparing these studies to the guidelines from Zimmermann et al. (2020). The five phases of an exhaustive TEA are (I) goal and scope, (II) data inventory, (III) calculation of indicators, (IV) interpretation, and (V) writing the report. We evaluate the implementation of these five phases in the economic feasibility studies in the literature set. The tutorial review shows that economic feasibility studies for chemical CCU technologies can and should be improved in various manners. Phase I and II are often skipped or incomplete. Phase III, the calculation of assessment indicators, shows diversity in the indicator base which hampers comparability across CCU technologies of the technical and economic criteria that are key for the feasibility. Phase IV, the interpretation of results, is often missing in the literature set or lacks thorough uncertainty and sensitivity analyses. These findings suggest that future economic feasibility studies should be made in a more standardized way to improve both the quality and comparability of economic feasibility studies. This tutorial review has raised important questions about the management of uncertainty and flexibility in economic feasibility studies. The integration of Real Options Analysis (ROA) within the TEA is proposed to analyse the investment decision in CCU technologies in a dynamic setting.
Out-of-hospital Resuscitation of a 3 Month Old Boy Presenting With Recurrent Ventricular Fibrillation Cardiac Arrest: A Case Report
Authors: Kingsley Peter , Merefield Jonathan , Walker Robert , Chapman Fred , Faulkner Mark
Published: March 2021

A 3 month old boy, with no known health conditions, suffered a sudden collapse at home. On first EMS arrival, ventricular fibrillation (VF) cardiac arrest was identified and resuscitation following UK national guidelines was initiated. He remained in cardiac arrest for over 25 minutes, during which he received 10 defibrillation shocks, each effective, but with VF reoccurring within a few seconds of each of the first 9. A return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved after the 10th shock. The resuscitation was conducted fully in his home, with the early involvement of Advanced Paramedic Practitioners specialising in critical care (APP- CC). Throughout his resuscitation, there remained a strong focus on delivering quality resuscitation in situ, rather than a ‘load and go’ approach that would have resulted in very early conveyance to hospital with on-going CPR.

The patient was subsequently discharged home and is making an excellent recovery. The arrest was later determined to have been caused by a primary arrhythmia as a result of a previously unidentified non-obstructive variant hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

We present data downloaded from the defibrillator used during the resuscitation that illustrates clearly the recurrent nature of his fibrillation.
Sex-Dependent Association of DNA Methylation in the Coding Region of the Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Gene and Schizophrenia
Authors: Qing Lili , Xiong Peng , Lu Yumei , Jiang Hongyan , Nie Shengjie
Published: March 2021

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a common mental disease causing severe chronic disability. Epigenetic changes in HPA axis-related genes are considered to play an important role in SCZ pathogenesis. Unfortunately, the methylation status of the corticotropin-releasing hormone ( CRH ) gene, which is the central driving force in the HPA axis, has not been reported in SCZ patients. Here, we used the sodium bisulfite and MethylTarget methods to detect the DNA methylation status of the CRH gene coding region in peripheral blood samples from 70 schizophrenic patients and 68 healthy controls. The results showed that the methylation level of the CRH gene CDS was significantly increased in SCZ patients, especially in the male subgroup. In conclusion, this study showed that differences in CRH gene CDS methylation were detectable in the peripheral blood of SCZ patients and that epigenetic abnormalities in the CRH gene were closely related to SCZ, revealing that epigenetic processes may mediate the pathophysiology of SCZ. Further research should address the underlying mechanism whereby CRH gene methylation regulates the occurrence and development of SCZ.
Raw cassava rhizome waste as a binder in sugarcane bagasse and straw briquettes
Authors: De Conti Andrea Cressoni , Granado Marcos Paulo Patta , Padilla Elias Ricardo Durango , Nakashima Gabriela Tami , De Conti Cláudio , Yamaji Fábio Minoru
Published: March 2021

The objective of this study was to analyze the cassava rhizome as a natural binder in blend briquettes from cassava rhizome, bagasse, and sugarcane straw. For this study, 20 kg of material (cassava rhizome sugarcane bagasse and straw) were dried to a moisture content closer to 12%. Six treatments were used for briquette production. Three blends and three 100% materials (without mix) were analyzed. The briquettes were produced in a lab-scale press with heating (120 ºC). The results showed that the energy index comparison varied from 6.20–8.25. The fracture limit for the resistance compressive test and the ultimate strength of the briquettes were found for B6 (100% cassava rhizome), followed by the B2 blend (75% cassava rhizome + 15% bagasse + 10% straw). Treatment B2 was the best composition for an energy source by proximate analysis. All treatments (briquettes) had a durability closer to 97%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) revealed the presence of Ca, K, and Si. The raw cassava rhizome behaves like a natural binder, and treatment B2 was the best blend for briquette production.
WITHDRAWN: High matrix vegetation decreases mean seed dispersal distance but increases long wind dispersal probability connecting local plant populations in agricultural landscapes
Authors: Gobilard Sissi Donna Lozada , Jeltsch Florian , Zhu Jinlei
Published: March 2021

Background Seed dispersal plays an important role in population dynamics in agricultural ecosystems, but the effects of surrounding vegetation height on seed dispersal and population connectivity on the landscape scale have rarely been studied. Understanding the effects of surrounding vegetation height on seed dispersal will provide important information for land use management in agricultural landscapes to prevent the spread of undesired weeds or enhance functional connectivity. Methods We used two model species, Phragmites australis and Typha latifolia, growing in small natural ponds known as kettle holes, in an agricultural landscape to evaluate the effects of surrounding vegetation height on wind dispersal and population connectivity between kettle holes. Seed dispersal distance and the probability of long-distance dispersal (LDD) were simulated with the mechanistic WALD model under three scenarios of “low”, “dynamic” and “high” surrounding vegetation height. Connectivity between the origin and target kettle holes was quantified with a connectivity index adapted from Hanski and Thomas (1994). Results Our results show that mean seed dispersal distance decreases with the height of surrounding matrix vegetation, but the probability of long-distance dispersal (LDD) increases with vegetation height. This indicates an important vegetation-based trade-off between mean dispersal distance and LDD, which has an impact on connectivity. Conclusions Matrix vegetation height has a negative effect on mean seed dispersal distance but a positive effect on the probability of LDD. This positive effect and its impact on connectivity provide novel insights into landscape level (meta-)population and community dynamics — a change in matrix vegetation height by land use or climatic changes could strongly affect the spread and connectivity of wind-dispersed plants. The opposite effect of vegetation height on mean seed dispersal distance and the probability of LDD should therefore be considered in management and analyses of future land use and climate change effects.
A Putative Tumor Suppressing Role of hsa-miR-154 in Breast Cancer that acts by Targeting CLOCK Gene
Authors: Ibrahim Eiman , Fritz Alison , Fu Alan N , Ehrlich Barbara E , Zhu Yong
Published: March 2021

BackgroundMicroRNA-154 (hsa-miR-154) is a novel miRNA. Emerging information shows that hsa-miR-154 participates in multiple physiological and pathological processes and is generally identified as a tumor suppressor in multiple types of cancers. Methylation of the hsa-miR-154 gene could also be altered by circadian disruption associated with night shiftwork. ResultsIn this study, we tested whether hsa-miR-154 expression is downregulated in breast cancer and whether hsa-miR-154 targets any circadian genes. Using publicly available datasets and bioinformatics analysis, we first demonstrated that expression levels of hsa-miR-154 were significantly lower in breast tumors compared to normal breast tissues and its expression correlated with clinical outcomes. Downregulation of hsa-miR-154 was also confirmed in breast cancer cell lines and restoration of hsa-miR-154 by transfection significantly inhibited growth of these cells. Further bioinformatics screening indicated that the circadian gene CLOCK is likely a hsa-miR-154 target. ConclusionsThese findings suggest a potential tumor suppressing role of hsa-miR-154 in breast cancer that acts by targeting CLOCK gene. Exploration of hsa-miR-154 for its anti-cancer effect may provide information on its potential for therapeutic application.
Clinical Features and Treatment of Inactive Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: An Weiting , Zhao Qi , Zhang Longli , Han Jindong
Published: March 2021

Background To investigate the clinical features and results after vitrectomy for inactive proliferative diabetic retinopathy (IPDR).Methods Retrospective review of 40 eyes of 21 IPDR patients who underwent 23G or 25G minimally invasive vitrectomy between January 2018 and December 2019 in Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital.The average follow-up period was 8.7 months. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), clinical features and intraoperative findings of IPDR.Results All eyes were performed with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) for average 1.6 years before operation. Fundus examination showed the optic disc was pale, and a mass of yellowish-white fibroproliferative membrane was around the optic disc and vascular arcade. Thirty-three eyes (82.5%) were accompanied by tractional retinal detachment, and macula was involved in 9 eyes (22.5%). The vitreous adhered with the retina tightly. The mid-peripheral retina was thin. Thirty-one eyes (77.5%) were accompanied by small branch retinal artery and vein occlusion. Fourteen eyes (35.0%) occurred iatrogenic retinal break during vitrectomy. The median LogMAR of BCVA significantly improved from 1.0 (20/200)preoperatively to 0.92 (20/167) postoperatively (P = 0.000).Conclusions The fundus manifestation of IPDR was quiet and special. Vitrectomy could improve patients’ visual acuity, but the incidence of iatrogenic retinal break was high.Vitrectomy could be performed by well-skilled vitro-retinal surgeons according to the minimum quantitative principle.
Managing Borders During Public Health Emergencies of International Concern: A Proposed Typology of Cross-border Health Measures
Authors: Lee Kelley , Grépin Karen A , Worsnop Catherine , Marion Summer , Piper Julianne , Song Mingqi
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThe near universal adoption of cross-border health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide has prompted significant debate about their effectiveness and compliance with international law. The number of measures used, and the range of measures applied, have far exceeded previous public health emergencies of international concern. However, efforts to advance research, policy and practice to support their effective use has been hindered by a lack of clear and consistent definition. ResultsBased on a review of existing datasets for cross-border health measures, such as the Oxford Coronavirus Government Response Tracker and World Health Organization Public Health and Social Measures, along with analysis of secondary and grey literature, we propose six categories to define measures more clearly and consistently – type of movement (travel and trade), policy goal, level of jurisdiction, use by public versus private sector, stage of journey, and degree of restrictiveness. These categories are then be brought together into a proposed typology that can support research with generalizable findings and comparative analyses across jurisdictions. The typology facilitates evidence-informed decision-making which takes account of policy complexity including trade-offs and externalities. Finally, the typology can support efforts to strengthen coordinated global responses to outbreaks and inform future efforts to revise the WHO International Health Regulations (2005). ConclusionsThe widespread use of cross-border health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted significant reflection on available evidence, previous practice and existing legal frameworks. The typology put forth in this paper aims to provide a starting point for strengthening research, policy and practice.
Angiotensin Receptor Blockade and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Early Stage Lung Cancer
Authors: Maloney Lauren , Tormoen Garth , Latour Emile , Chen Yiyi , Rice Douglas , Grossblatt-Wait Alison , Nabavizadeh Nima , Thomas Charles , Young Kristina , Walker Joshua , Holland John , Grossberg Aaron
Published: March 2021

BackgroundStereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) demonstrates excellent local control in early stage lung cancer, however a quarter of patients develop recurrence or distant metastasis. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) supports metastasis and treatment resistance, and angiotensin receptor blockade (ARB) indirectly suppresses TGF-β signaling. This study investigates whether patients taking ARBs while undergoing SBRT for early stage lung cancer exhibited improved overall survival (OS) or recurrence free survival (RFS) compared to patients not taking ARBs. MethodsThis was a single institution retrospective analysis of 272 patients treated with SBRT for early stage lung cancer between 2009-2018. Patient health data was abstracted from the electronic medical record. OS and RFS were assessed using Kaplan-Meier method. Log-rank test was used to compare unadjusted survival between groups. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs). ResultsOf 247 patients analyzed, 24 (10%) patients took ARBs for the duration of radiotherapy. There was no difference in mean age, median tumor diameter, or median biologic effective dose between patients taking ARBs or not. Patients taking ARBs exhibited increased OS (ARB=96.7 mo.; no ARB= 43.3 mo.; HR=0.25 [95% CI: 0.10 to 0.62, P = .003]) and increased RFS (median RFS, ARB=64.3 mo.; No ARB=35.1 mo.; HR=0.26 [95% CI: 0.10 to 0.63, P = .003]). These effects were not seen in patients taking angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or statins. ConclusionsARB use while undergoing SBRT for early stage lung cancer may increase OS and RFS, but ACEI use does not show the same effect.
Does Vein-first Lobectomy Control Postoperative Circulating Tumor Cells in Lung Cancer?: a Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Sawabata Noriyoshi , Nakane Shigeru , Yoshikawa Daiki , Watanabe Takashi , Kawaguchi Takeshi , Kushibe keiji
Published: March 2021

Background: Vein-first dissecting lobectomy in lung cancer surgery is speculated to limit the amount of circulating tumor cells. We aimed to assess the clinical significance and prognostic impact of Vein-first dissecting lobectomy according to changes in circulating tumor cell status throughout the perioperative period.Methods: Among patients with pulmonary nodule who underwent surgery, we extracted and evaluated patients who underwent lobectomy for lung cancer and had underwent circulating tumor cell testing before and immediately after the completion of lobectomy. The primary evaluation item was the detection rate of postoperative circulating tumor cell according to the sequence of pulmonary vessel processing. The secondary evaluation items were the 2-year recurrence-free survival and overall survival rates according to the status of Vein-first dissecting lobectomy and postoperative circulating tumor cell. Results: Between June 2014 and June 2018, 302 patients with pulmonary nodule underwent surgery, among them we selected 86 patients who underwent lobectomy for lung cancer and had circulating tumor cell testing done before and immediately after the completion of lobectomy. The circulating tumor cell identification rates in the postoperative period were 54.4% (37/68) and 66.7% (12/18) (p=0.8) in vein-first dissecting lobectomy group and no-vein-first dissecting lobectomy group, respectively. The mean postoperative circulating tumor cell count was not significantly different between the vein-first dissecting lobectomy and no-vein-first dissecting lobectomy groups (3.0 ± 3.6 vs 3.2 ± 5.0, p=0.8). The 2-year recurrence-free survival and overall survival rates were also not significantly different. However, the presence of circulating tumor cell after surgery was a predictor of recurrence.Conclusions: Although the detection of circulating tumor cell after surgery is a predictor of cancer recurrence, no significant difference was observed in the status of postoperative circulating tumor cell s between vein-first dissecting lobectomy and no- vein-first dissecting lobectomy groups in lung cancer surgery.
Porphyromonas gingivalis induces entero-hepatic metabolic derangements with alteration of gut microbiota in a type 2 diabetes mouse model
Authors: Kashiwagi Yoichiro , Aburaya Syunsuke , Sugiyama Naoyuki , Narukawa Yuki , Sakamoto Yuta , Takahashi Masatomo , Uemura Hayato , Yamashita Rentaro , Tominaga Syotaro , Hayashi Satoko , Nozaki Takenori , Yamada Satoru , Izumi Yoshihiro , Kashiwagi Atsunori , Bamba Takeshi , Ishihama Yasushi , Murakami Shinya
Published: March 2021

Periodontal infection is thought to generate systemic inflammation, thus aggravating diabetes. Furthermore, orally administered periodontal pathogens may directly alter the gut microbiota. To elucidate this, using an obese db/db diabetes mice, orally treated with Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), we screened for Pg-specific peptides in intestinal fecal specimens and examined whether Pg localization affected the intestinal microbiota profile altering gut metabolite levels. Finally, we screened whether deterioration of fasting hyperglycemia was related to changes in intrahepatic glucose metabolism, using proteome and metabolome analyses. As results; (1) Oral Pg treatment aggravated both fasting and postprandial hyperglycemia (P < 0.05) with a significant (P < 0.01) increase in dental alveolar bone resorption. (2) Pg-specific peptides were identified in fecal specimens after oral Pg treatment and intestinal Pg profoundly altered gut microbiome profiles at the phylum, family, and genus levels. Prevotella showed the largest increase in abundance. Furthermore, Pg-treatment significantly altered intestinal metabolite levels. (3) Fasting hyperglycemia was associated with increases in gluconeogenesis-related enzyme and metabolite levels without changes in proinflammatory cytokine expressions and insulin resistance. This work reveals that oral Pg administration induced gut microbiota changes, leading to entero-hepatic metabolic derangements, thereby aggravating hyperglycemia in an obese type 2 diabetes mouse model.
Arterial spin labeling: Adaptive thresholding for epileptogenic zone detection in MRI-negative epilepsy
Authors: Gajdoš Martin , Říha Pavel , Kojan Martin , Doležalová Irena , Mutsaerts Henk-Jan , Petr Jan , Rektor Ivan
Published: March 2021

Drug-resistant epilepsy is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, mainly in patients with negative MRI findings. State-of-the-art imaging methods complement standard epilepsy protocols with new information and help to epileptologists to increase reliability of their decisions. In this study, we investigate if arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion MRI can help localizing the epileptogenic zone (EZ). To that end, we developed an image processing method to detect the EZ as an area with hypoperfusion relative to the contralateral unaffected side, using subject-specific thresholding of the asymmetry index in ASL images. We demonstrated three thresholding criteria (minimal product criterion, minimal distance criterion, and elbow criterion) on 29 patients with MRI-negative epilepsy (age 32.98 ± 10.4 years). The minimal product criterion showed optimal results in terms of positive predictive value (mean 0.12 and 0.22) and true positive rate (mean 0.71 and 1.82). Additionally, we found high accuracy in determining the EZ side (mean 0.86 and 0.73 out of 1.00). In conclusion, the ASL can be easily incorporated to the standard presurgical MR protocol and it provides an additional benefit in EZ localization.
Perinatal events associated with birth asphyxia and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in a middle-income country: A multicenter, observational study.
Authors: Kitsommart Ratchada , Thamwiriyakul Nirucha , Asawakitipong Rawee , Taesiri Usakorn , Wongsinin Thananjit , Paes Bosco
Published: March 2021

Background: Risk factors for neonatal encephalopathy differ across high- and low-income countries. Evidence of demographic characteristics and factors associated with perinatal hypoxia of infants who are at-risk for HIE in Southeast Asia is needed. Our primary objective was to investigate the intrapartum characteristics of infants ≥32 weeks’ gestational age (GA) born with low Apgar scores. Secondary objectives were to determine perinatal hypoxic events, and the characteristics and outcomes of infants ≥35 weeks GA with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Methods: A multicenter, retrospective, study was conducted. Individual charts were reviewed of infants with 5-minute Apgar scores ≤5 who were admitted to 4 tertiary centers in Thailand over 5 years. Events associated with perinatal hypoxia and outcomes were extracted. Variables were compared using chi-square, Fisher-exact test, two-independent sample t tests, ANOVA and Mann-Whitney. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics version 18.0. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: Among 120235 infants, 454 had 5-mintue Apgar scores ≤5 (average: 3.8 per 1000 live births). The estimated frequency of HIE in ≥32 weeks’ GA infants was 1.5 per 1000 livebirths. Ninety-seven percent of the mothers’ received antenatal care. After exclusions, 316 infants and 314 mothers comprised the final sample. Common intrapartum complications were abnormal fetal heart rate (38.5%) and meconium-stained amniotic fluid (19.1%). Infants ≥35 weeks GA had mean ± standard deviation (SD) birthweight of 3003.4 ± 590.5 g; 10% were small-for-GA. Among ≥35 weeks GA infants with HIE, 42% had metabolic acidosis, 53% experienced sentinel, hypoxic perinatal events and advanced resuscitation was instituted in 92%. The severity of encephalopathy was reported in 99% of subjects. Eighty-five infants (62.5%) met all eligibility criteria for therapeutic hypothermia (TH) and 48 (56.5% of eligible infants) received treatment. The overall mortality rate was 29.4%.Conclusion: Maternal and intrapartum characteristics of infants at-risk for perinatal asphyxia in Thailand were comparable to reports from high-income countries. To improve recruitment for TH in middle-income, South-East Asian countries, strategies to raise HIE awareness among practitioners and more simplified TH eligible criteria are warranted to encourage timely transfer to referral centers for treatment.
Association Between Cervical Dysplasia and Female Genital Schistosomiasis Diagnosed by Genital PCR in Zambian Women
Authors: Rafferty Hannah , Sturt Amy , Phiri Comfort Rutty , Webb Emily , Mudenda Maina , Mapani Joyce , Corstjens Paul , Dam Govert Van , Schaap Ab , Ayles Helen , Hayes Richard , Lieshout Lisette Van , Hansingo Isaiah , Bustinduy Amaya L.
Published: March 2021

Background: Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a neglected tropical gynaecological disease that affects millions of women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). FGS is caused by Schistosoma (S.) haematobium, a parasitic carcinogen involved in the pathogenesis of squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder. Cervical cancer incidence and mortality are highest in SSA, where pre-cancerous cervical dysplasia is often detected on screening with visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). No studies have evaluated the association between VIA positivity and FGS diagnosed by genital PCR. Methods: Women were recruited from the BILHIV study in Zambia, which compared genital self-sampling to provider obtained cervicovaginal-lavage for the diagnosis of FGS in women aged 18-31. FGS was defined as positive Schistosoma DNA from any genital PCR. Urogenital schistosomiasis diagnostics included urine circulating anodic antigen, urine microscopy and portable colposcopy. Participants were offered cervical cancer screening using VIA at Livingstone Central Hospital. Associations of PCR confirmed FGS and other diagnostics with VIA positivity were assessed using multivariable logistic regression.Results: VIA results were available from 237 BILHIV participants. A positive Schistosoma PCR in any genital specimen was detected in 14 women (5.9%), 28.6% (4/14) of these women had positive VIA compared to 9.0% (20/223) without PCR evidence of schistosome infection. Schistosoma PCR positivity in any genital specimen was strongly associated with VIA positivity (OR: 6.08, 95% CI: 1.58-23.37, P=0.02). Conclusions: This is the first study to find an association between FGS and positive VIA, a relationship that may be causal. Further longitudinal studies are needed.
Performance of the DLPNO-CCSD and Recent DFT Methods in the Calculation of Isotropic and Dipolar Contributions to 14N Hyperfine Coupling Constants of Nitroxide Radicals
Authors: Gromov Oleg
Published: March 2021

In the present study, the performance of a set of density functionals: BP86, PBE, OLYP, BEEF, PBEpow, TPSS, SCAN, PBEGXPBE, M06L, MN15L, B3LYP, PBE0, mPW1PW, B97, BHandHLYP, mPW1PW, HSE06, B98, TPSS0, PBE1KCIS, SCAN0, M06, M06-2X, MN15, CAM-B3LYP, ωB97x, B2PLYP, and the B3LYP/N07D and PBE/N07D schemes in the calculation of the 14N anisotropic hyperfine coupling (HFC) constants of a set of 23 nitroxide radicals is evaluated. The results are compared with those obtained with the DLPNO-CCSD method and experimental HFC values. Harmonic contribution to the 14N HFC vibrational correction was calculated at the revPBE0/def2-TZVPP level and included in the evaluation. With the vibrational correction, the DLPNO-CCSD method yielded HFC values in good agreement with the experiment (MAD = 0.3 G for the dipole-dipole contribution and MAD = 0.8 G for the contact coupling contribution). The best DFT results are obtained using the M06 functional with mean absolute deviation (MAD) = 0.2 G for the dipole-dipole contribution and MAD = 0.7 G for the contact coupling contribution. In general, vibrational correction significantly improved most DFT functionals' performance but did not change its overall ranking.
Periodicity in Extreme Weather in the ‘Maritime Region’ of Eastern North America
Authors: Walsh Carling Ruth , Patterson R. Timothy
Published: March 2021

Spectral and wavelet analysis were used to identify trends and cycles in extreme temperature and precipitation events based on historical data (~100-150 years) from six climate stations within the “Maritime Region” of eastern North America. Many statistically significant climate cycles were identified using both spectral and Morlet wavelet analyses at each of these locations for both extreme high and low temperature and precipitation (rain, snow) data, with periodicities typically ranging from ~ 2–30 years. To assess potential drivers of these cyclical extreme weather events, the records of these events were compared, using cross wavelet analysis, to the climate indices of several teleconnections, including the 11-year Schwabe solar cycle, Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, North Atlantic Oscillation, Arctic Oscillation, El Niño Southern Oscillation and the Quasi–Biennial Oscillation. It was found that the 11-year solar cycle had the strongest influence over extreme temperature and precipitation in this region, whereas the remaining oscillations, with the exception the Quasi–Biennial Oscillation, exhibited complex interactions with one another, characterized a variety of both positive and negative modulating effects. The Quasi–Biennial Oscillation was found to drive high–frequency oscillations in extreme weather, particularly extreme precipitation. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that extreme weather events in this region have not substantially increased or decreased in number over time, but have been predominantly influenced by several cyclic climate phenomena.
The clinical efficacy of novel vacuum suction ureteroscopic lithotripsy in the treatment of upper ureteral calculi
Authors: zhang LvWen , Song Yan , Fei Xiang
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the clinical efficacy of a novel vacuum suction ureteroscopic approach in the treatment of upper ureteral calculi. A total of 160 patients with impacted upper ureteral calculi were included in this study. 50 patients underwent rigid ureteroscopic lithotripsy, 54 patients underwent flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy, and 56 patients underwent vacuum suction ureteroscopic lithotripsy. The operative time, length of hospitalization, stone-free rate, complication rate and total treatment cost were compared among the three groups. Subgroup analysis was performed based on the stone diameter over and below 1.5 cm. Compared with the other two groups, the vacuum suction ureteroscopy group had higher stone-free rate at 3–5 days (90.0% vs. 61.9% vs. 55.6%, P < 0.05) and 1 month (96.4% vs. 77.7% vs. 74.0%, P < 0.05) postoperatively. In subgroup analysis, the stone-free rate of the vacuum suction ureteroscopy group was significantly higher when the stone diameter was > 1.5 cm at 1 month postoperatively ( P < 0.05); however, there were no differences in postoperative complications.( P > 0.05). In conclusion, the novel vacuum suction ureteroscopic lithotripsy has significantly improved the stone-free rate especially in complicated cases; however the complication and cost was not increased.
E-cigarette Aerosols Versus Cigarette Smoke: Harm Reduction in Levels of Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Wu Zehong , Xu Jing , Xu Te , Li Xinduo , Luo Quan , Luo An , Huang Yilan , Jiang Xingtao
Published: March 2021

Background: Worldwide adoption of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) has increased exponentially over the past decade due to the perception that they may represent a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes (CS) and as an effort to reduce smoking-related diseases. Various types of e-cigarettes from different brands have been emerged in the market with different design and quality. However, whether the safety risks of e-cigarettes held ﻿the trends toward positive changes need to be further certified by more scientific evidence. Methods: A systematic comparison study on the selected harmful and potentially harmful constituents (HPHCs) levels, including carbonyls, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and metals in aerosols of two typical commercially available e-cigarettes and one cigarette smoke (CS) in Chinese market were proceeded, together with their cytotoxicity on Jukart, CNE-1, HONE1, Hep-2 cell lines by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Results: The results showed that the levels of vast majority HPHCs in e-cigarette aerosols are either undetected or obviously lower than those in CS, which indicating the exposure to HPHCs was markedly reduced in the tested e-cigarettes. The CCK-8 and colony formation assay also indicated that the TPM extracts of e-cigarette aerosols also exhibited much weaker cytotoxicity than CS. Conclusion: The comparison of HPHCs levels in e-cigarette aerosols revealed that the use of e-cigarettes could lead to a significant reduction in exposure to harmful substances compared to CS. In tandem, the potential cytotoxicity of e-cigarettes on cell levels also showed potential for improvement compared to smoking. However, more attention needs to be paid to the differences in safety risks between different brands of e-cigarettes.
The attainment of herd immunity with reduced risk of contact infection in modelling
Authors: Law Kian Boon , Peariasamy Kalaiarasu M , Ibrahim Hishamshah , Abdullah Noor Hisham
Published: March 2021

The risk of contact infection among susceptible individuals in a randomly mixed population can be reduced by the presence of immune individuals and this concept is referred to as herd immunity1–3. The conventional susceptible-infectious-recovered (SIR) model does not feature a reduced risk of susceptible individuals in the transmission dynamics of infectious disease, therefore violates the fundamental of herd immunity4. Here we show that the reduced risk of contact infection among susceptible individuals in the SIR model can be attained by incorporating the proportion of susceptible individuals (model A) or the inverse of proportion of recovered individuals (model B) in the force of infection of the SIR model. We simulated the conventional SIR model and both new SIR models under the exact condition with a basic reproduction ratio of 3.0 and an expected herd immunity threshold of 0.667 (66.7%). All three models performed likewise at the initial stage of an epidemic. In the conventional SIR model, the epidemic continued until 94.0 % of the population had been infected and recovered, way above the threshold for eradication and control of the epidemic. Both models A and B simulated the epidemic waning when 66.7% and 75.6% of the population had been infected, as a result of the herd effect. As a result, model A provides a better framework for modelling vaccine-induced herd or population immunity, while model B provides a better framework for modelling infection-induced herd or population immunity. Our results demonstrate how the new modelling framework overcomes the drawback of the conventional SIR model and attain the effect of herd immunity in modelling outputs, which is important for modelling infectious disease in a randomly mixed population, especially for the COVID-19 pandemic.
Efficacy, Mechanism, and Safety of Herbal Medicine for Respiratory Disease Induced by Particulate Matter: a Protocol for a Scoping Review
Authors: Leem Jungtae , Kim Yohwan , Kim Kwan-Il
Published: March 2021

Background: Particulate matter (PM) is an important environmental risk factor in the initiation and exacerbation of respiratory disease. Various herbal medicines have exhibited a reduction in symptoms of respiratory diseases induced by PM in animal models; however, their efficacy, mechanism, and safety have not been reviewed. This review will evaluate the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of herbal medicines in respiratory diseases caused by PM. Methods:We will follow the scoping review framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley. MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials will be searched for relevant English-language publications, and only peer-reviewed, controlled comparative in-vivo/in-vitro studies examining the effects of herbs in animal models of respiratory disease induced by PM will be included. The basic characteristics, research method, possible mechanism, and results will be extracted. The primary outcome will be pulmonary function; secondary outcomes will be inflammatory markers, reactive oxygen species, histology and mechanisms, and adverse events. Two researchers will independently perform the study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. RevMan software (version 5.3) will be used for the quantitative data synthesis. When appropriate, data will be pooled for meta-analysis using fixed or random effects models; otherwise, evidence will be summarized qualitatively. Ethics and Dissemination: Ethical approval is not required because individual patient data will not be included. The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations.Registration number: This review protocol has been registered with the Open Science Framework on February 12, 2021 (https://osf.io/s7uvk/)
Integrated exome and RNA sequencing of TFE3-translocation renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Sun Guangxi , Chen Junru , Liang Jiayu , Yin Xiaoxue , Zhang Mengni , Yao Jin , He Ning , Armstrong Cameron , Zheng Linmao , Zhang Xingming , Zhu Sha , Sun Xiaomeng , Yang Xiaoxia , Zhao Wanbin , Liao Banghua , Pan Xiuyi , Nie Ling , Yang Ling , Chen Yuntian , Zhao Jinge , Zhang Haoran , Dai Jindong , Shen Yali , Liu Ji-Yan , Huang Rui , Liu Jiandong , Wang Zhipeng , Ni Yuchao , Wei Qiang , Li Xiang , Zhou Qiao , Haojie Huang , Liu Zhenhua , Shen Pengfei , Chen Ni , Zeng Hao
Published: March 2021

TFE3-translocation renal cell carcinoma (TFE3-tRCC) is a rare and heterogeneous subtype of kidney cancer that has no standard treatment for advanced disease. We described comprehensive molecular characteristics of 63 untreated primary TFE3-tRCCs based on whole-exome and RNA sequencing. TFE3-tRCC is highly heterogeneous, both clinicopathologically and genotypically. ASPSCR1-TFE3 fusion, certain fusion isoforms and high somatic copy number alteration burdens were associated with aggressive features and poor outcomes. Apart from tumors with MED15-TFE3 fusion, most TFE3-tRCCs exhibited low PD-L1 expression and low T-cell infiltration. Unsupervised transcriptomic analysis revealed five molecular clusters with distinct angiogenesis, stroma, proliferation and KRAS down signatures, which showed association with fusion patterns and prognosis. Specifically, the high angiogenesis/stroma/proliferation cluster exclusively consisted of tumors with ASPSCR1-TFE3 fusion, which was likely to benefit from combination of immune checkpoint and anti-angiogenesis inhibitors. Our findings reveal the genomic and transcriptomic features of TFE3-tRCC and provide insights into precision medicine for this disease.
Clinical experience in anti-synthetase syndrome: a monocentric retrospective analytical study
Authors: Maloir Quentin , Laurence Seidel , Christian Von Frenckell , Fanny Gester , Renaud Louis , Julien Guiot
Published: March 2021

OBJECTIVES
Anti-synthetase syndrome (ASS) is a rare auto-immune disorder combining autoantibodies and specifics clinical manifestations. One of the particularities of the ASS is the pleiomorphic radiological presentation seen at the initial work-up. Evaluating treatment response can also be challenging and requires a specific clinical, functional, biological and radiological monitoring. For these reasons is fundamental to identify specific radiological and clinical features of ASS to improve diagnosis and therapeutic approach.
METHODS
We retrospectively studied all patients suffering from ASS in CHU of Liège from 2008 to 2019. The diagnosis of ASS was made according to ERS's criteria. We analyzed clinical features, pulmonary function test (PFT), computed tomography (CT), and longitudinal evolution with regard to their treatments.
RESULTS
In the whole cohort of 30 patients, we identified 19 anti-JO1, 5 anti-PL12 & 6 anti-PL7. The sex-ratio is slightly in favor of male. Interestingly PL-12 syndrome was present in younger patients than those with others antibodies (mean age 39,8 vs 53,1 (JO1) & 73,3 (PL7) (p < 0.01)). 77% of the overall cohort exhibited specific pulmonary involvement without any significant difference with regards to the severity assessed by PFT at diagnosis. Whereas the radiological presentation was pleomorphic in the anti-JO1 syndrome, the anti-PL12 syndrome exhibited mainly ground glass opacities (GGO) as well as reticular abnormalities while those with anti-PL7 showed reticulations and bronchiectasis. The longitudinal CT analysis mainly showed up a reduction of consolidations and GGO with specific therapies.
CONCLUSION
In our single center retrospective study, we found different profile of autoantibodies according to age and radiological appearance.
Metabolic flux analysis of simultaneous production of vitamin B12 and propionic acid in a coupled fermentation process by Propionibacterium freudenreichii
Authors: Zhang Yuhan , Li Xiaolian , Wang Ziqiang , Wang Yunshan , Ma Yuanyuan , Su Zhiguo
Published: March 2021

The metabolic processes involved in simultaneous production of vitamin B12 and propionic acid by Propionibacterium freudenreichii are very complicated. To further investigate the regulatory mechanisms of this metabolism, a simplified metabolic network was established. The effects of glucose feeding, propionic acid removal, and 5,6-dimethylbenzimidazole (DMB) addition on the metabolic flux distribution were investigated. The results showed that synthesis of propionic acid can be increased by increasing the metabolic flux through the oxaloacetate and methylmalonyl-CoA branches in the early and middle stages of the coupled fermentation. After DMB addition, the synthesis of vitamin B12 was significantly enhanced via increased metabolic flux through the δ-aminolevulinate branch, which promoted the synthesis of uroporphyrinogen III, a precursor of vitamin B12. Therefore, the analysis of metabolic flux at key nodes can provide theoretical guidance for the optimization of P. freudenreichii fermentation processes. In an experimental coupled fermentation process, the concentrations of vitamin B12 and propionic acid reached 21.6 and 50.12 g/L respectively, increased by 105.71% and 73.91% compared with batch fermentation, which provides a new strategy for industrial production.