bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrical conduction and noise spectroscopy of sodium-alginate gold-covered ultrathin films for flexible green electronics
Authors: Barone Carlo , Maccagnani Piera , Dinelli Franco , Bertoldo Monica , Capelli Raffaella , Cocchi Massimo , Seri Mirko , Pagano Sergio
Published: January 2022

Green electronics is an emerging topic that requires the exploration of new methodologies for the integration of green components into electronic devices. Therefore, the development of alternative and eco-friendly raw materials, biocompatible and biodegradable, is of great importance. Among these, sodium-alginate is a natural biopolymer extracted from marine algae having a great potential in terms of transparency, flexibility, and conductivity, when functionalized with a thin gold (Au) layer. The electrical transport of these flexible and conducting substrates has been studied, by DC measurements, from 300 to 10 K, to understand the interplay between the organic substrate and the metallic layer. The results were compared to reference bilayers based on polymethyl-methacrylate, a well-known polymer used in electronics. In addition, a detailed investigation of the electric noise properties was also performed. This analysis allows to study the effect of charge carriers fluctuations, providing important information to quantify the minimum metallic thickness required for electronic applications. In particular, the typical noise behavior of metallic compounds was observed in samples covered with 5 nm of Au, while noise levels related to a non-metallic conduction were found for a thickness of 4.5 nm, despite of the relatively good DC conductance of the bilayer.
Cardiovascular Outcomes in the J-DAVID Based on Alkaline Phosphatase: A Post-hoc Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Oka Tatsufumi , Sakaguchi Yusuke , Isaka Yoshitaka , Ishii Haruka , Kabata Daijiro , Shintani Ayumi , Nakatani Shinya , Morioka Tomoaki , Mori Katsuhito , Inaba Masaaki , Emoto Masanori , Shoji Tetsuo
Published: January 2022

In the Japan Dialysis Active Vitamin D (J-DAVID) trial, oral alfacalcidol numerically, but not significantly, increased the risk of cardiovascular events among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Because the cardiovascular effect of alfacalcidol could be modulated by bone turnover status, this post-hoc analysis of the J-DAVID examined how alkaline phosphatase (ALP), a more precise marker of bone turnover than parathyroid hormone (PTH), modifies the impact of alfacalcidol. The J-DAVID was a 48-month, open-label, randomized controlled trial comparing oral alfacalcidol with no vitamin D receptor activators (VDRAs) use in terms of cardiovascular events among 976 hemodialysis patients without secondary hyperparathyroidism. This post-hoc analysis included 959 patients with available data on baseline ALP. The median [25–75th percentile] baseline ALP level was 234 [183–296] U/L. In a Cox proportional hazards model, ALP did not significantly modify the effect of alfacalcidol on the rate of cardiovascular events or all-cause death (P for effect modification=0.54 and 0.74, respectively). The effect of alfacalcidol on time-series changes in calcium, phosphate, and intact PTH were similar across ALP subgroups. In conclusion, oral alfacalcidol did not significantly affect cardiovascular outcomes irrespective of bone turnover status.
Rejuvenation of Facial Skin by Transplantation of the Autologous Stromal Vascular Fraction Isolated Using a New Type of Clinical-Grade Collagenase
Authors: Qin Jiaqi , Fang Bin , He Jizhou , Cheng Chen , Zhou Jia , Zhou Shuangbai , Huang Rulin , Tan Poh-ching , Zhang Tianyu , Jiang Taoran , Liu Wenhui , Wang Hairong , Xie Yun , Li Qingfeng
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to detect the yield, activity and safety of the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) isolated by a new clinical-grade collagenase with a specific process and to validate the efficacy of the method.
MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the in vitro study, adipose tissue specimens were obtained from women undergoing elective liposuction (n = 5). The SVF was isolated by new clinical-grade collagenase for the experimental group and research-grade collagenase NB4 for the control group. The surface markers of the SVFs isolated by the two collagenases were detected by flow cytometry. The yield, activity and morphology of the SVFs were compared, together with their proliferation, migration and differentiation. Furthermore, we conducted a clinical trial to evaluate the improvement of skin texture after transplantation of autologous SVF isolated by clinical-grade collagenase.
RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in the yield, viability or morphology of the SVFs isolated by the new collagenase and collagenase NB4. Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) surface marker expression was consistent between the two products. The differentiation potential of the cells was not different, which was consistent with previously published results. The SVF isolated by the new collagenase had a higher proliferation and migration. After administration of autologous SVF isolated by the new collagenase, the VISIA score improved significantly with regard to wrinkle scores and texture scores.
CONCLUSION

We concluded that this new type of clinical-grade collagenase can replace current research-grade products without any negative effect on the yield or function of the SVF, which can be applied to antiaging and rejuvenation of facial skin.
Considerable variability in the clinical and ciliary features of primary ciliary dyskinesia in patients with DNAH5 mutations
Authors: Guo Zhuoyao , Chen Weicheng , Li Mengru , Wang Libo , Qian Liling
Published: January 2022

Background: Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder, but the relationship between genotype and phenotype is poorly established. We aimed to characterize the detailed clinical characteristics, ciliary phenotype and mutational spectrum of PCD patients with DNAH5 mutations.Methods: Whole exome sequencing followed by targeted copy number variation (CNV) analysis was used to screen 114 Chinese patients with highly suspected PCD. In cases with DNAH5 mutation, detailed demographic and clinical data, as well as ciliary beat pattern and ciliary ultrastructure, were comprehensively reviewed. Results: Thirty patients (median, 15.3 years; range, 0.6 to 43 years), who carried DNAH5 mutation, were identified. We characterized 38 novel and 7 known DNAH5 mutations (10 nonsense, 5 frameshift, 10 splicing, 16 missense mutations, 2 in-frame deletions and 2 large deletions). Despite bearing the same genotype, patients presented a highly variable phenotypic picture, including milder respiratory symptom, normal nasal nitric oxide levels (2/21, 9.5%) and “nontypical” ciliary beat pattern (4/21, 19.0%). Conclusions: DNAH5-associated PCD disease demonstrates dramatic phenotypic heterogeneity, contributing to the challenges of diagnosis. A composite work-up and cautious interpretation of the results are necessary during the PCD diagnosis process.
Effectiveness of High-Flow Nasal Cannula For Tracheal Intubation In The Emergency Department
Authors: Mitsuyama Yumi , Nakao Shunichiro , Shimazaki Junya , Ogura Hiroshi , Shimazu Takeshi
Published: January 2022

Background: Tracheal intubation in the emergency department (ED) can cause serious complications. Available evidence on the use of high-flow nasal canula (HFNC) during intubation in the ED is limited. This study evaluates the effect of oxygen therapy by HFNC on oxygen desaturation during tracheal intubation in the ED.Methods: This was a single-center before and after study designed to compare two groups that received oxygen therapy during intubation: one received conventional oxygen; the other received oxygen therapy using HFNC. We included non-trauma patients who required tracheal intubation in the ED. A linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between oxygen therapy using HFNC and the lowest peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) during intubation in the conventional and HFNC groups.Results: The study population included 87 patients (conventional group, n=67; HFNC group, n=20). The median lowest SpO2 in the HFNC group was significantly higher than that in the conventional group (94% [84–99%] vs. 85% [76–91%], p=0.006). The percentage of cases with oxygen desaturation to <90% during the intubation procedure in the HFNC group was significantly lower in comparison to than in the conventional group (40% vs. 63.8%, p=0.037). The use of HFNC was significantly associated with the lowest SpO2 and the use of HFNC increased the lowest SpO2 during intubation procedures by 7.7% (p=0.029).Conclusion: We showed that the use of HFNC during tracheal intubation was associated with a higher lowest SpO2 during the procedure in comparison to conventional oxygen administration in non-trauma patients in the ED.
The Validation of Left Atrial Strain Imaging for the Assessment of Diastolic Functions in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Durmaz Eser , Karpuz Mehmet Hakan , Ikitimur Baris , Karadag Bilgehan , Koca Damla , Tokdil Kardelen Ohtaroglu , Raimoglu Utku , Gulfidan Asli , Incesu Gunduz , Tokdil Hasan , Pirdal Betul Zehra , Ongen Zeki
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

Assessment of left ventricular filling pressure(LVFP) is crucial in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction(STEMI).Since current guideline recommended echocardiographic parameters have limited value, more comprehensive assessment methods are required in this patient subset.In this study, we aimed to investigate the clinical utility of left atrial reservoir strain(LARS) imaging in patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention(pPCI).
Methods:

Patients who underwent successful pPCI were included.Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure(LVEDP) was measured invasively following pPCI. Left atrial strain imaging was performed following pPCI within 24 hours of pPCI. Normal LARS value was accepted as above 23%.
Results:

We prospectively enrolled 69 patients; there were 18 patients with LARS below 23% who were included into group 1 and rest of the study population included into group 2.There was no significant difference between groups in terms of comorbidities.Troponin and pro-BNP levels were significantly higher in group 1(p: 0.036 and 0.047 respectively). Left atrial volume and tricuspid regurgitation velocity were similar between groups(p: 0.416 and p:0.351 respectively). Septal tissue velocity was higher(p:0.001) and Septal E/e’ ratio was lower(p:0.004) in group 2. Left ventricular(LV) global longitudinal strain value was higher in group 1 which is consistent with observed lower ejection(LVEF) fraction in group 1(p: 0.001 for LV strain and p: 0.001 for LVEF). Estimated mean LVFP was also higher in group 1(p: 0.003).Correlation analyses revealed moderate correlation between LARS and LVEDP(r: -0.300).
Conclusion

Our results indicate that left atrial strain imaging is a promising tool for the assessment of left atrial pressure in patients with STEMI.
Increased Terrigenous Input from North America to the Northern Mendeleev Ridge (Western Arctic Ocean) Since the Mid-Brunhes Event
Authors: Park Kwangkyu , Wang Rujiang , Xiao Wenshen , Polyak Leonid , Cho Hyen Goo , Khim Boo-Keun
Published: January 2022

Mid-Brunhes Event (MBE) occurred at approximately 420 ka between Marine Isotope Stage 11 and 12, and is considered the most pronounced climatic shift during the last ~800 kyrs. On the other hand, it is unclear if the MBE was global, despite being observed in the high-latitude Northern Hemispheric cryosphere in terms of climate systems. A 5.35-m long gravity core ARC5-MA01 was obtained from the northern Mendeleev Ridge in the western Arctic Ocean to track the paleoenvironmental changes in terms of the terrigenous sedimentation in response to the glacial-interglacial climate changes across the MBE. Geochemical proxies (biogenic opal, total organic carbon, C/N ratio, carbon isotope of organic matter, and calcium carbonate) of MA01 suggest that the terrigenous input was generally higher during the interglacial periods. Based on a mineralogical examination, most of the terrigenous input was attributed to the abundance of dolomite and the increased kaolinite content from North America. In particular, most paleoceanographic proxies showed that the terrigenous input from North America was enhanced distinctly during the post-MBE interglacial periods. These results suggest that the MBE in the western Arctic Ocean was a global climatic shift closely linked to cryospheric development in North America during the middle Pleistocene.
Changes in the upper airway microbiota in pediatric obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Guan Jian , Xu Huajun , Li Xinyi , Fu Zhihui , Wang Fan , Huang Weijun , Zhang Xiaoman , Wu Kejia , Li Chenyang , Liu Yupu , Zou Jianyin , Zhu Huaming , Yi Hongliang , Kaiming Su , Gu Meizhen , Yin Shankai
Published: January 2022

Background: A few clinical studies have demonstrated that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with dysbiosis of the oral and nasal microbiota. However, how upper airway microbial diversity, composition, and structure are altered in pediatric OSA has not been systemically explored. Methods: In total, 30 polysomnography (PSG)-confirmed OSA patients with adenoid hypertrophy, and 30 controls who did not snore or adenoid hypertrophy, were enrolled. Swabs from four surface oral tissue sites (tongue base, soft palate, both palatine tonsils, and the adenoids) and one nasal swab from both anterior nares were collected. The 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) V3–V4 region was sequenced to identify the microbial communities. Results: Alpha and beta diversity were not significantly different between the pediatric OSA patients and controls at the five upper airway sites. However, the microbial profiles were significantly different among the five upper airway sites. The abundances of Haemophilus, Fusobacterium, and Porphyromonas were higher in the adenoids and tonsils of pediatric patients with OSA. Functional analysis revealed that the differential pathway between the pediatric OSA patients and controls involved amino acid metabolism and signal transduction. Conclusions: In this study, the upper airway microbiome of pediatric OSA patients only exhibited minor differences in composition compared with the controls. However, the microbiota data could be useful as a reference for studies on the upper airway microbiome or other relevant clinical phenomena.
Electroacupuncture vs topical diclofenac sodium gel for patients with hand osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Zhishun , Wang Weiming , Yu Shudan , Long Zilin , Liu Yan , Yan Yan , Sun Tianheng
Published: January 2022

Background: Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint disorder and a great burden to both patients and society. While electroacupuncture (EA) and topical diclofenac sodium gel (DSG) are both currently used to treat OA, no head-to-head study of EA and topical DSG for hand OA exists. Thus, it remains unknown whether one intervention offers improved outcomes over the other. This study aims to compare the effects of EA and topical DSG in patients with hand OA.Methods: A total of 108 participants with hand OA according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria will be recruited and randomly assigned to the EA group or topical DSG group with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Participants in the EA group will receive EA treatment thrice weekly for 4 weeks, followed by a 12-week follow-up. In the topical DSG group, topical DSG at a dose of 2 g over the affected joints per hand will be applied four times per day for 4 weeks. The outcomes will be measured at weeks 4, 8, and 16. The primary outcome will be the change in average overall finger joint pain intensity in the dominant hand from baseline to week 4. All outcome variables will be analyzed on an intention-to-treat principle. All statistical tests will be two-sided. Discussion: This study will help determine which of the two treatment protocols, EA or topical DSG, is more effective for the clinical treatment of hand OA.
Expression of heat shock protein D1 is up-regulated in canine mammary tumors
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Kumar BV Sunil , Gupta Kuldip
Published: January 2022

Background-
Mammary tumors are frequently seen in female dogs. Conventionally, these tumors are diagnosed by histopathology. Differentially expressed biomarkers could aid in non-invasive diagnosis of canine mammary tumors but their number is scanty. The present investigation focuses on assessing HSPD1 as a diagnostic biomarker of canine mammary tumors.
Methods and results-
Expression of HSPD1 transcript was analyzed by SYBR green based real time PCR (qRT-PCR). Gene encoding immuno-dominant region of HSPD1 was cloned using the expression vector pPROEX-HTa and expressed in a prokaryotic system. Upon purification by affinity chromatography, a 60KDa recombinant protein was obtained which was confirmed by Western blotting. Hyperimmune serum was raised against the rHSPD1 in mice and immunohistochemistry was standardized to assess expression of this protein in various histotypes of canine mammary tumors. Elevated level of HSPD1 mRNA expression (4.92 ± 0.65folds) was observed in canine mammary tumors as compared to the healthy mammary tissue. Further, HSPD1 protein expression in 80% of healthy tissues showed mild immunoreactivity whereas, moderate to high expression of HSPD1 was seen in 80% CMT tissue samples.
Conclusions-
The findings suggest that HSPD1 could act as molecular marker for the diagnosis of mammary tumors in canines and also to assess the response to these subjects to treatment.
Postoperative morbidity and health-related quality of life in children with delayed reconstruction of esophageal atresia: a nationwide Swedish study
Authors: Dellenmark-Blom Michaela , Ax Sofie Örnö , Öst Elin , Svensson Jan F , Kassa Ann-Marie , Jönsson Linus , Abrahamsson Kate , Gatzinsky Vladimir , Stenström Pernilla , Tollne AnnaMaria , Omling Erik , Lilja Helene Engstrand
Published: January 2022

Background In 10-15% of children with esophageal atresia (EA) delayed reconstruction of esophageal atresia (DREA) is necessary due to long-gap EA and/or prematurity/low birth weight. They represent a patient subgroup with high risk of complications. We aimed to evaluate postoperative morbidity and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in a Swedish national cohort of children with DREA. Methods Postoperative morbidity, age-specific generic HRQOL (PedsQLTM 4.0) and condition-specific HRQOL (The EA-QOL questionnaires) in children with DREA were compared with children with EA who had primary anastomosis (PA). Factors associated with the DREA group’s HRQOL scores were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U-test and Spearman’s rho. Clinical data was extracted from the medical records. Significance level was p<0.05.Results Thirty-four out of 45 families of children with DREA were included and 30 returned the questionnaires(n=8 children aged 2-7 years; n=22 children aged 8-18 years). Compared to children with PA(42 children aged 2-7 years; 64 children aged 8-18 years), there were no significant differences in most early postoperative complications. At follow-up, symptom prevalence in children aged 2-7 with DREA ranged from 37.5% (heartburn) to 75%(cough). Further digestive and respiratory symptoms were present in ≥50%. In children aged 8-18, it ranged from 14.3%(vomiting) to 40.9%(cough), with other digestive and airway symptoms present in 19.0-27.3%. Except for chest tightness(2-7 years), there were no significant differences in symptom prevalence between children with DREA and PA, nor between their generic or condition-specific HRQOL scores(p>0.05). More children with DREA underwent esophageal dilatations (both age groups), gastrostomy feeding(2-7 years), and antireflux treatment (8-18 years), p<0.05. Days to hospital discharge after EA repair and a number of associated anomalies showed a strong negative correlation with HRQOL scores (2-7 years). Presence of cough, airway infection, swallowing difficulties and heartburn were associated with lower HRQOL scores (8-18 years), p<0.05. Conclusions Although children with DREA need more treatments, they are not a risk group for postoperative morbidity and impaired HRQOL compared with children with PA. However, those with a long initial hospital stay, several associated anomalies and digestive or respiratory symptoms risk worse HRQOL. This is important information for clinical practice, families and patient stakeholders.
Impact of NMDA receptor activation on DNA damage in PC12 neuron-like cell cultures in the presence of β-amyloid peptides
Authors: Wiatrak Benita , Mieszała Przemysław , Gąsiorowski Kazimierz
Published: January 2022

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of low nanomolar concentrations of Aβ1-40 and Aβ25-35 on DNA double-strand breaks following NMDA activation of cells.Materials and Methods: After PC12 cells were incubated with Aβ1-40 or Aβ25-35 for 24 hours, the culture was washed and stimulated for 15 min with NMDA. Then, tests were performed at four-time intervals from stimulation to assess the viability of the culture, the level of oxygen free radicals, and the γH2AX and pATM kinase.Results: It was found that amyloid peptides in nanomolar concentrations reduce double-stranded DNA breaks after NMDA neurons activation. A slight antioxidant effect was also demonstrated when measured 120 minutes after NMDA cell activation.Conclusion: The NMDA stimulation of PC12 cells led to a rapid increase in the number of double-stranded DNA breaks in the cells and is assumed to be the initial step in IEG activation and LTP induction. The effect of Aβ on the reduction of double-strand breaks after NMDA cell stimulation indicates that at concentrations similar to physiological amyloid peptides, it may reduce the mobilization of the neuronal response to stimuli, leading to inhibition of LTP induction and decrease synaptic plasticity in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.
Cross-Seasonal Precursors of Strong Persistent Freezing Rain and Snow Events in South and Southwest China
Authors: Siyan Li , Xiaojuan Sun , Wang Julian X.L. , Li Chen
Published: January 2022

We used daily temperature and precipitation data from 753 stations provided by the National Meteorological Information Center of China for the time period 1950–2018 and NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data to explore winter weather events in southwest China (100–110° E, 22.5–32.5° N). We found a cross-seasonal precursor signal for the occurrence of freezing rain and snow events. Key zones of the tropical Pacific (160° E–90° W, 5° S–5° N) sea surface temperature (SST), the north Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO)-like SST mode and the Indian Ocean (40–100° E, 10° S–20° N) SST in the previous autumn were significantly correlated with the key anomaly combination index in winter. Forcing of the atmosphere by these three key areas in terms of SST led to significant atmospheric circulation anomalies in the north Pacific and its lower reaches. The coupling effect of the cold SST at (160° E–90° W, 5° S–5° N) and the north Pacific PDO-like cold SST mode in the previous autumn caused an abnormal longwave disturbance over the north Atlantic Ocean in winter, which was dispersed downstream. This caused mid- to high-latitude circulation anomalies in East Asia that favored the diffusion of cold air. The cold SST at (40–100° E, 10° S–20° N) deepened the southern branch trough, favoring the occurrence of freezing rain and snow events. The CESM air–sea coupling model simulated the forcing effect outside the three key areas of SST in November, consistent with the observed statistical results. An inter-seasonal prediction index for strong persistent freezing rain and snow events in southwestern China was established based on the average SST anomalies in key areas in the previous November. This index provides a reference for the inter-seasonal prediction of winter freezing events in southern China.
Conversion Therapy in Gastric Cancer – Curative Intent in Stage IV Patients is Beneficial
Authors: Muduly Dillip Kumar , Imaduddin Mohammed , Sultania Mahesh , Mohakud Sudipta , Panigrahi Manas Kumar , Majumdar Saroj Kumar Das , Patra Susama , Kar Madhabananda
Published: January 2022

Background
Stage IV Gastric cancer is associated with a poor prognosis and is often managed with palliative chemotherapy. Conversion therapy in gastric cancer is a growing concept in the treatment of stage IV gastric cancer, wherein an R0 resection is attempted following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The present studied aimed to evaluate the role of conversion therapy in gastric cancer.
Methods
Retrospective analysis of a surgical database was performed. Clinically stage IV patients who received chemotherapy were divided into Group 1 with R0 resection (conversion surgery group) and Group 2 without R0 resection (Stage IV noncurative). Upfront operated stage III patients were identified as Group 3. The primary endpoint was overall survival.
Results
The database included 212 gastroesophageal patients, of which 47 patients were eligible for conversion therapy. Group 1 included 26 patients, Group 2 21 patients and Group 3 43 patients. The overall survival of Group 1 was significantly higher when compared with Group 2 (p-value: 0.03; HR: 2.14 with 95% CI: 1.04 -4.39). The overall survival in Group 3 was higher when compared to Group 1 but did not attain statistical significance (p-value: 0.30; HR: 1.44 with 95% CI: 0.71 – 2.90).
Conclusion
Stage IV gastric cancer has improved survival and offers a chance at potential cure if R0 resection is achieved after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. This group of patients have similar survival to upfront resected stage III gastric cancer patients treated with curative intent.
Non-invasive Diagnostic Potential of microRNA-203 in Liquid Biopsy of Urothelial Carcinoma of Bladder
Authors: Singh Pradeep , Singh Aishwarya , Gupta Nidhi , Raja K David , Singh Prabhjot , Agarwal Sarita , Sharma Alpana
Published: January 2022

PurposeIncreased CD44 antigen activity has been reported in recurrent cases of UBC. To date, no reliable biomarker is available with high significance and specificity for non-invasive detection of UBC. This study aimed to identify a CD44-linked microRNAs (miRNAs) panel for non-invasive diagnosis of bladder cancer from other urinary tract malignancies.MethodsThe expression of CD44-linked miRNAs was examined in serum, urine, and tissue specimens of Indian UBC patients (N = 25). For this purpose, healthy subjects (N = 25) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (N = 10) patients were taken as controls. The relative expression of miRNAs was analysed in serum, urine and tissue samples using real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). The diagnostic potential of these miRNAs was accessed by plotting ROC curve.ResultsIncreased miR-9 expression was observed in serum of UBC patients than healthy and BPH controls. In UBC patients, miR-34a expression was lower than healthy controls but non-significant as compared to BPH. miR-203 expression was considerably higher in serum of UBC patients but non-significant as compared to BPH controls. miR-203 was found to be considerably higher in urine samples from UBC patients as compared to BPH and healthy controls. The diagnostic potential of these miRNAs was evaluated using the ROC curve. Higher miR-203 levels in the urine of Indian UBC patients demonstrates its non-invasive diagnostic ability out of the three miRNAs studied.ConclusionsOur results characterize the non-invasive diagnostic potential of CD44-linked miR-203 in the urine of Indian UBC patients, which could be utilized in clinical settings in future after validation in larger patient cohort.
Intravenous Uptake of NMN is Safely Metabolize and Increases NAD+ Levels in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Kimura Shintarou , Ichikawa Misa , Sugawara Suzuka , Katagiri Tomoko , Hirasawa Yumi , Ishikawa Takahiro , Matsunaga Wataru , Gotoh Akinobu
Published: January 2022

Increasing nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels alleviates the progression of age-related diseases and promotes healthy life expectancy. Several studies have demonstrated that NAD+ levels can be efficiently replenished via intake of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), and the safety of oral ingestion of NMN has been confirmed in recent clinical trials on healthy Japanese men. However, the efficacy and safety of intravenous NMN administration in humans remains unclear. Therefore, we verified the safety of NMN via venous intake in 10 healthy volunteers. Intravenous administration of NMN did not affect electrocardiograms, pulse, and blood pressure, nor did it affect metabolic markers in the liver, heart, pancreas, and kidneys. Furthermore, NMN administration not only significantly increased blood NAD+ levels without damaging blood cells, but also significantly improved sleep quality. Therefore, our findings indicate that intravenous NMN administration in humans is safe and beneficial for the prevention of aging-related diseases.
Pregnancy May Have Little Influence on Ground-glass Opacities Suspected for Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Bai Jinsong , Deng Chaoqiang , Fu Fangqiu , Li Di , Ma Zelin , Ma Xiangyi , Zhang Yang , Chen Haiquan
Published: January 2022

Purpose: Due to the popularity of low-dose computed tomography in lung cancer screening, young women spotted with ground-glass opacities (GGO) is a growing subgroup in clinical practice. We aim to investigate the influence of pregnancy on GGOs suspected for lung adenocarcinoma.Methods: This retrospective study collected a series of female patients who were pregnant in follow-up of GGO lesions. The last CT images of GGO before pregnancy (CT1) and the first CT images after pregnancy (CT2) were reviewed to assess any radiologic change. Young female patients who were not pregnant in long-term (> 12 months) follow-up of GGO were enrolled as a comparison group. We also enrolled patients who gave birth within two years before surgical resection of GGOs.Results: Four patients were enrolled according to the criteria. There was no significant change of the GGOs in all four patients with a median follow-up duration of 45.5 (range: 17-86) months. Two patients were diagnosed pathologically to be minimally invasive adenocarcinoma, one was invasive adenocarcinoma and one did not underwent surgery. Six patients were enrolled in the comparison group and no significant change was witnessed in all the nodules. In those patients who gave birth within two years before surgical resection of GGOs, we found that the majority present as pre-invasive lesions, and those with invasive adenocarcinomas were bigger in size and possess more solid component radiologically.Conclusion: Pregnancy seems to have little impact on GGOs suspected for lung adenocarcinoma. Therefore, pregnancy might be safely planned during the follow-up of GGOs.
Sequential acquisition of tyrosine kinase domain mutations in a case of chronic myeloid leukemia: A dormant clone war against TKI
Authors: Dhangar Somprakash , Ghatanatti Jagdeeshwar , Shanmukhaiah Chandrakala , Vundinti Babu Rao
Published: January 2022

The tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy has a high response rate in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However majority of patients relapse due to high mutation susceptibility of tyrosine kinase domain (TKD) of BCR/ABL fusion gene. We report a case of CML which was diagnosed and monitored for 10 years as per the ELN guidelines. Mutational analysis using Sanger sequencing (SS) and Next generation sequencing (NGS) and In-silico study was performed. The present case describes the acquisition pattern of TKD mutation against the TKIs (Imatinib, Dasatinib and Nilotinib) at different time points. Interestingly, NGS identified a dormant mutant clone with p.G250E mutation in 2019 which was first detected by SS in 2011 along with one novel mutation p. Ala287Thr, which likely explain the dormant nature of these mutant clones. Bioinformatics analysis (Modelling and docking) of novel variant revealed that mutation detected through deep sequencing technique reducing the IM efficacy by increasing inhibition constant and suggests higher concentration of IM to overcome such mutations. The study highlights the importance of NGS in CML, as it can detects clinically relevant low level mutant clones in CML patients.
Exploring the perspectives of healthcare providers on providing HIV prevention and treatment services for Key Populations in Rwanda: a qualitative study.
Authors: Igihozo Gloria , Sichali Junious Mabo , Medhe Sandip , Wong Rex
Published: January 2022

Background:The HIV prevalence and incidence among the general population in Rwanda have decreased significantly in the past decade, with only about 3% prevalence as of 2019. However, opposite trends are seen among the key populations (KP). The prevalence among commercial sex workers is as high as 51%, and the HIV rates among this group continue to rise. While the prevalence among key populations remains high, their adherence to HIV treatment is low compared to the general population. Healthcare providers play a vital role in ensuring key populations’ access to HIV treatment, adherence, and program retention. This study aimed to explore the experiences of healthcare providers in providing HIV services to key populations in Rwanda.Methods:A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted with nurses, doctors, social workers, and psychologists who provide HIV services in health facilities in Rwanda. In-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Transcribed and translated data were coded according to a structured code book. All data were organized and analyzed using Dedoose software (version 8.3.35).Results: Interviews with 18 healthcare providers were conducted; participants included 1 doctor (5.6%), 5 social workers (27.8%), and 12 nurses (66.7%). All participants had worked with key populations, especially commercial sex workers and men who have sex with men. Three overarching themes emerged from the interviews: healthcare providers’ intrinsic feelings affect the ways they provide HIV services to key populations, key populations face a multitude of challenges related to accessing treatment and preventing the spread of HIV, and a more comprehensive and sensitive approach should be used to improve HIV services for key populations. Conclusion: Healthcare providers expressed difficulties in providing services to key populations as they tend not to adhere to treatment and prevention guidelines, caused by some structural barriers, their lack of trust in the system, and the discrimination and abuse they have faced. More comprehensive services including clinical, financial, and psychosocial support from trusted sources are needed. Some important policy changes may be needed to allow KPs to purchase community-based health insurance.
Sex differences in long-term outcomes after revascularization for three-vessel coronary disease
Authors: Liu Yuguo , Zhu Yifan , Wang Junjie , Lv Haichen , Meng Shaoke , Qu Shenglin , Yin Da , Zhou Xuchen , Zhu Hao , Guo Lei , Li Yuming
Published: January 2022

Background: To investigate the impact of gender on long-term outcomes of after revascularization in patients with three-vessel disease (TVD), a severe type of coronary artery disease (CAD).Methods: A total of 3776 patients with TVD who underwent revascularization between 2013 and 2018 were analyzed and were divided into the female group (n = 1039, 27.5%) and the male group (n = 2737, 72.5%). We performed a propensity score matching (PSM) to balance the baseline characteristics. The primary outcome was the frequency of major adverse and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). The secondary outcome was the incidence of all-cause death. Results: Through 2.4-year follow-up, no significant differences in MACCE (25.8% vs. 27.5%, p = 0.279) and all-cause death (2.1% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.888) were observed between the two cohorts. Similar results as with the early detection were obtained in propensity-matched patients. Multivariable analysis revealed that female gender (hazard ratio 0.99, 95% confidence interval 0.88-1.17, p = 0.820) was not an independent predictor of MACCE but hypertension, diabetes mellitus, atrial fibrillation, left main trunk involvement and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% were independently associated with a higher MACCE rate in these patients. Conclusions: For patients with TVD after coronary revascularization, there were no sex-related differences in the long-term outcomes and female gender was not an independent predictor of MACCE.
Underweight Among the Children Under Five Years Age in Northeastern States, India
Authors: Chauhan Kirti , Chiero Vekutulu , Mandal Debarghya , Singh Kh Jitenkumar
Published: January 2022

BackgroundAge-appropriate weight or underweight is one of the normative indexes of physical development that describe the nutritional state of children. Northeast India has a wide range of sociocultural child-rearing activities due to the region's varied tribal and ethnic populations which in some or the other way affect the nutritional status among children in early ages. An attempt has been made to assess the prevalence and determine the risk of underweight among children in northeast region in India.MethodsThe present study is based on a publicly available National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4), 2015-16 data. Multilevel random intercept model approach has been used to investigate the impact of independent variables at different social hierarchical levels on the underweight status in the study population.ResultsChildren whose mother's level of education was no education or primary were 1.13 and 1.34 times more likely to be underweight respectively than those with secondary or higher level of education. The risk of being underweight were 2.4 times higher among children of 4 years of age compared to those with age less than 1 year. Poorest wealth quintile had 2.45 times higher chance of being underweight.ConclusionStudy suggests that education of mother’s education, child's sex, age, type of residence, social status, and household’s wealth index affect the underweight among children. Hence, to combat the situation in northeast states, policymakers must make policies with a strong reliance on communities with a higher prevalence and risk.
Only vaccinations cannot reduce mortality and stop the COVID-19 pandemic because of manifold environmental and socioeconomic factors driving diffusion
Authors: Coccia Mario
Published: January 2022

One of the fundamental problems in COVID-19 pandemic crisis is whether vaccinations are a sufficient strategy to reduce mortality and mitigate negative effects of this novel infectious disease in society. This study confronts the problem here by developing an analysis of the relation between people fully vaccinated and mortality between countries to clarify sources and effects of COVID-19 pandemic in society. Methodology applies correlation and regression analyses based on global data of more than 150 countries. Findings reveal a strong positive correlation between share of people fully vaccinated and COVID-19 mortality in January 2022 (r= .65, p-value <.01). Multiple analysis of regression shows that a 1% higher share of people fully vaccinated, increases the expected deaths per 100 000 people by 0.7% (p-value < 0.001), controlling GDP per capita between countries. These results seem to suggest that COVID-19 vaccinations are not a sufficient strategy to reduce the negative impact of the new infectious disease in society, because socioeconomic and environmental factors, mutations of the novel coronavirus and technological aspects of countries (e.g., equipment of non-invasive ventilators in countries) affect the spread and mortality of this pandemic between countries. Overall, then, a pandemic policy only based on vaccinations cannot cope with the eradication of COVID-19 pandemic because manifold factors drive the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 and generate a lot of negative impacts in economic systems, though high levels of vaccinations in some countries.
Urbanization Affects the Occurrence of a Large Stingless Bee Species in a Large City
Authors: Antonini Yasmine , Martins Rogerio Parentoni
Published: January 2022

Insightful studies of habitat fragmentation and bees will consider fragmentation, alteration, and loss of nesting habitats, not just patches of forage plants, as well as the permeability of the surrounding matrix to interpatch movement. Most previous studies on bees defined habitat fragments as remnant patches of floral hosts or forests, overlooking the nesting needs of bees, with their conclusions being that habitat fragmentation is broadly deleterious, but there still remain contrasting results in the literature. We investigated the effects of fragmentation, caused by urbanization, and the permeability of the surrounding matrix on the occurrence of one species of large-sized stingless bee. Individuals of Melipona quadrifasciata were collected at flowering plants in 11 Atlantic Forest fragments (ranging 64–1,406 ha) in southeastern Brazil and analyzed the vegetation structure of the fragments and classified the urbanized matrix. We examined the effects of forest fragment size, fragment isolation and the urban landscape context on the occurrence of M. quadrifasciata. We found the species to be highly dependent on large and tall trees and was found in large fragments with high tree species richness and tree density. The urbanized landscape context was also found to be directly related to the presence of M. quadrifasciata, with the species’ absence from fragments in a highly urbanized landscape. We conclude that habitat quality within a fragment (vegetation structure), as well as matrix quality, are directly related to the occurrence of M. quadrifasciata, as shown by the direct relationship between environmental structural diversity and fragment age. The matrix holding recent fragments, probably due to the sprawl of the city, is more heterogeneous than the one with the oldest fragments. The most heterogeneous matrices possess a certain balance between trees, buildings and bare soil or herbaceous vegetation coverage, making them less impermeable to bees.
Biotic and Abiotic Sources of Stress on Wild Rocket Classified by Leaf-Image Hyperspectral Data Mining with an Artificial Intelligence Model
Authors: Navarro Alejandra , Nicastro Nicola , Costa Corrado , Pentangelo Alfonso , Cardarelli Mariateresa , Ortenzi Luciano , Pallottino Federico , Cardi Teodoro , Pane Catello
Published: January 2022

Background: Wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) is prone to soil-borne stresses under intensive cultivation systems devoted to ready-to-eat salad chain, increasing needs for external inputs. Early detection of the abiotic and biotic stresses by using digital reflectance-based probes may allow optimization and enhance performances of the mitigation strategies.Methods: Hyperspectral image analysis was applied to D. tenuifolia potted plants subjected, in a greenhouse experiment, to five treatments for one week: a control treatment watered to 100% water holding capacity, two biotic stresses: Fusarium wilting and Rhizoctonia rotting, and two abiotic stresses: water deficit and salinity. Leaf hyperspectral fingerprints were submitted to an artificial intelligence pipeline for training and validating image-based classification models able to work in the stress range. Spectral investigation was corroborated by pertaining physiological parameters. Results: Water status was mainly affected by water deficit treatment, followed by fungal diseases, while salinity did not change water relations of wild rocket plants compared to control treatment. Biotic stresses triggered discoloration in plants just in a week after application of the treatments, as evidenced by the colour space coordinates and pigment contents values. Some vegetation indices, calculated on the bases of the reflectance data, targeted on plant vitality and chlorophyll content, healthiness, and carotenoid content, agreed with the patterns of variations observed for the physiological parameters. Artificial neural network helped selection of VIS (492-504, 540-568 and 712-720 nm) and NIR (855, 900-908 and 970 nm) bands, whose read reflectance contributed to discriminate stresses by imaging. Conclusions: This study provided significative spectral information linked to the assessed stresses, allowing the identification of narrowed spectral regions and single wavelengths due to changes in photosynthetically active pigments and in water status revealing the etiological cause.
PERAN AKUNTANSI KARBON PADA PERUSAHAAN DALAM PENCEGAHAN GLOBAL WARMING
Authors: Rahmawati Ayuni , Tsamrotussaadah Indah , Salsabila Zahrah , Maulana Agus
Published: January 2022

ABSTRAK Pada tahun 2018-2019 tingkat deforestasi Indonesia mengalami peningkatan dari tahun sebelumnya. Salah satu penyebab terjadinya ialah hilangnya sebagian fungsi hutan sebagai penyerap karbon akibat penebangan hutan yang sebagian dilakukan untuk kepentingan perusahaan. Hal ini mempengaruhi perubahan iklim yang menyebabkan terjadinya pemanasan global. Sehingga, muncullah akuntansi karbon yang bertujuan untuk menghitung jumlah emisi karbon yang dihasilkan oleh perusahaan setiap tahunnya. Metodologi penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif kajian pustaka yang bersumber pada buku-buku teks, website resmi di internet, hasil penelitian dalam bentuk skripsi, dan jurnal-jurnal ilmiah. Adapun tujuan penulis melakukan penelitian ini ialah untuk mengetahui peran akuntansi karbon pada perusahaan dalam pencegahan global warming. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa akuntansi karbon berperan untuk membantu perluasan daerah penyerapan gas rumah kaca (GRK) dan juga membantu para pemegang kepentingan perusahaan untuk mengatur strategi agar emisi karbon yang dihasilkan dapat diminimalisasi. Selain itu, akuntansi karbon juga dapat memberikan banyak manfaat bagi lingkungan sekitarnya. Jadi, dengan diterapkannya akuntansi karbon di perusahaan dapat memperluas lahan penyerapan GRK. Dengan begitu, akuntansi karbon akan membantu global warming untuk tidak semakin memburuk atau bahkan dapat menurunkannya.Kata Kunci: akuntansi karbon, pemanasan global, peran akuntansi karbon, gas rumah kaca, emisi karbonABSTRACT In 2018-2019 the rate of deforestation in Indonesia has increased from the previous year. One of the causes of the increase in deforestation is the loss of part of the forest's function as a carbon sink due to deforestation, partly for the benefit of companies. This affects climate change which causes global warming. Therefore, carbon accounting emerged, which aims to calculate the amount of carbon emissions produced by companies every year. This research methodology uses qualitative research methods literature review sourced from text books, the official website of the internet, research results in the form of a thesis, and scientific journals. The purpose of this research is to determine the role of carbon accounting in companies in preventing global warming. The results of this study indicate that carbon accounting plays a role to expand the absorption area of greenhouse gases and also to help corporate stakeholders to set strategies so that the resulting carbon emissions can be minimized. In addition, carbon accounting can also provide many benefits to the surrounding environment. That way, carbon accounting will help global warming not get worse or even reduce the level of global warming. Keywords: carbon accounting, global warming, the role of carbon accounting, greenhouse gases, carbon emission