bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A conserved role of CBP/p300 in mitochondrial stress response and longevity
Authors: Li Terytty Yang , Sleiman Maroun Bou , Li Hao , Gao Arwen W. , Mottis Adrienne , Bachmann Alexis , Alam Gaby , Goeminne Ludger , Li Xiaoxu , Schoonjans Kristina , Auwerx Johan
Published: October 2020

Organisms respond to mitochondrial stress by activating multiple defense pathways including the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt). However, how different layers of UPRmt regulators are orchestrated to transcriptionally activate the stress responses remains largely unknown. Here we identified CBP-1, the worm ortholog of the mammalian acetyltransferases CBP/p300, as an essential regulator for UPRmt activation, as well as for mitochondrial stress-induced immune response, reduction of amyloid-β aggregation and lifespan extension in Caenorhabditis elegans. Mechanistically, CBP-1 acts downstream of histone demethylases, JMJD-1.2/JMJD-3.1, and upstream of UPRmt transcription factors including ATFS-1, to systematically induce a broad spectrum of UPRmt genes and execute multiple beneficial functions. In mouse and human populations, transcript levels of CBP/p300 positively correlate with UPRmt transcripts and longevity. Furthermore, CBP/p300 inhibition disrupts, while forced expression of p300 is sufficient to activate, the UPRmt in mammalian cells. These results highlight an evolutionarily conserved mechanism that determines mitochondrial stress response, and promotes health and longevity through CBP/p300.
Organisational Implementation Climate in implementing internet-based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for depression
Authors: Vis Christiaan , Kleiboer Annet , Mol Mayke , Pedersen Claus Duedal , Finch Tracy , Smit Jan , Riper Heleen
Published: October 2020

Background. In the MasterMind project, Internet-based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (iCBT) services for depression have been implemented in routine care in 14 European regions. This study aimed to advance understanding of the nature and value of organisational implementation climate in implementing iCBT services from the perspectives of implementers and service deliverers.Methods. A mixed method approach was applied. Based on principles of concept mapping, a structured workshop with implementers was conducted to qualitatively conceptualise organisational implementation climate conducive to optimizing iCBT use in routine practice. Mental health service delivers involved in the provision or referral of patients to the implemented iCBT services were invited to participate in a cross-sectional survey assessing levels of satisfaction and usability of iCBT, and organisational implementation climate. Associations between satisfaction, usability and implementation climate were explored.Results. 16 implementers representing 14 service delivery organisations participated in the workshop. The top-3 characteristics of a strong organisational implementation climate included: (1) clear roles and skills of implementers, (2) feasible implementation targets, and (3) a dedicated implementation team. The top-3 tools for creating an implementation climate included: (1) job performance feedback, (2) progress monitoring in relation to achieving implementation targets, and (3) guidelines for assessing the impact of iCBT. In total 111 respondents (73% female) completed the survey. Mental health service deliverers were generally satisfied delivering iCBT services (MCSQ = 9.11, SD = 1.96, range = 3-15, n = 108) and found their usability slightly below average (MSUS = 63.76, SD = 15.53, range = 0-100, n = 103). They regarded their organisational implementation climate as supportive in implementing iCBT services (MICS = 43.21, SD = 5.62, range = 12-60, n = 89). Organisational implementation climate was weakly associated with the system usability scale (r = 0.25, p =.03) and moderately with the satisfaction scale (r = .51, p £ .00).Conclusions. Organisational implementation climate as part of the wider organisational context in which implementation processes take place, is a relevant factor to implementers and service deliverers in implementing iCBT in routine care. The qualitative conceptual findings align with the quantitative approach applied in this study for measuring organisational implementation climate. Implementers can use various practical tools to shape organisational implementation climate to increase acceptance and subsequently improve implementation of iCBT in mental health care.
Comparative Study of the Biochemical Behavior of some Highly Toxic Minerals on Selenosis in Rats
Authors: Williams Mike
Published: October 2020

Objective: An investigation of the potential influences of As, Hg, Tl and Pb on Se metabolism, which can suggest new drugs to cope the poisonousness of Se. Methods: Chronic cases were carried out with the nursing of rats with a purified diet of water-soluble vitamin mix, fat-soluble vitamin mix, saccharides, oil, and salts. One week after the basic diet, the rats taken Se have received diets containing 10 ppm of the element as sodium selenite or selenate added in the salts. Result: As, Hg, and Tl were repressed the volatized Se excreted from the lungs. As has assisted the biliary excretion of Se and inhibited the chronic selenosis. Tl has increased the retention of Se in the liver and kidney, but, had no chronic effect on the amount of Se deposited in all the studied tissues. Similarly, Hg has increased the retention of Se but in the spleen and carcass of rats indicating to the high Se concentration in blood. Hg and Tl have inhibited the Se in urine. Conclusion: No effects of the doses rich in As, Hg, and Tl on the Se excretion in fecal. Even though, we suggest As as a possible medication to chronic selenosis.
Automated Detection of Paleoenvironmental Proxy, Eucampia Index, in a Microscopic Slide Using a Convolutional Neural Network System
Authors: Ishino Saki , Itaki Takuya
Published: October 2020

The Eucampia Index, which is calculated from valve ratio of Antarctic diatom Eucampia ainarctica varieties, has been expected to be a useful indicator of sea ice coverage or/and sea surface temperature variation in the Southern Ocean. To verify the relationship between the index value and the environmental factors, considerable effort is needed to classify and count valves of E. antarctica in a very large number of samples. In this study, to realize automated detection of the Eucampia Index, we constructed a deep-learning (one of the learning methods of artificial intelligence) based models for identifying Eucampia valves from various particles in a diatom slide. The microfossil Classification and Rapid Accumulation Device (miCRAD) system, which can be used for scanning a slide and cropping images of particles automatically, was employed to collect images in training dataset for the model and test dataset for model verification. As a result of classifying particle images in the test dataset by the initial model "Eant_1000px_200616", accuracy was 78.8%. The Eucampia Index value prepared in the test dataset was 0.80, and the value predicted using the developed model from the same dataset was 0.76. The predicted value was in the range of the manual counting error. These results suggest that the classification performance of the model is similar to that of a human expert. This study revealed that a model capable of detecting the ratio of two diatom species can be constructed using the miCRAD system for the first time. The miCRAD system connected with the developed model in this study is capable of automatically classifying particle images at the same time of capturing images so that the system can be applied to a large-scale analysis of the Eucampia index in the Southern Ocean. Depending on the setting of the classification category, similar method is relevant to investigators who have to process a large number of diatom samples such as for detecting specific species for biostratigraphic and paleoenvironmental studies.
Which Factors Affect Ankle Joint Swelling in Ankle Fracture Patients? - Radiological Measurement Method
Authors: Lee Sang-June , Ha Cheungsoo , Jung Kyunghun , Choi Young Rak
Published: October 2020

Background: Ankle joint swelling (AJS) in fracture patients is important for predicting soft tissue complications and deciding urgent surgery. Most surgeons still predict the progression of AJS based on their extensive experience. This study was conducted to identify factors that may affect the progression of AJS.Methods: The clinical data and radiographic images of 120 patients who have undergone surgical treatment for ankle fracture were obtained. The immediate radiographs after surgery were representative of the swelling of the ankle joint, and the radiographs 2 weeks after device removal were representative of the normal ankle joint. We defined AJS as the sum of the ankle joint skin contour diameters in the anteroposterior and lateral views. We performed multivariate regression analysis to compare the correlation between variables and AJS.Results: A total of 90 patients were included and followed up for an average of 18.1 months (range, 14–20). Three significant factors (preoperative serum glucose level, injury mechanism, and duration of surgery) were identified to affect AJS.Conclusion: Elevated preoperative serum glucose level, high-energy injury, and extended duration of surgery were more likely to aggravate AJS. These findings will help surgeons to predict the prognosis of patients with AJS and to provide proper management for patients with an ankle fracture.Level of Evidence: Retrospective cohort study, III
IGF2 is a Potential Factor in RAI-refractory Non-medullary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Crezee Thomas , Tesselaar Marika H. , Jaeger Martin , Rabold Katrin , Corver Willem E. , Morreau Hans , Grunsven Adriana C.H. van Engen - van , Smit Jan W.A. , Netea-Maier Romana T. , Plantinga Theo S.
Published: October 2020

Background: Non-medullary thyroid cancer (NMTC) is the most frequent endocrine tumor with in most cases a good prognosis after thyroidectomy and 131I radioactive iodide (RAI) ablation. In contrast, 30-40% of patients with metastatic NMTC are unresponsive to 131I RAI treatment as a result of tumor dedifferentiation. Currently, underlying molecular mechanisms of NMTC dedifferentiation still remain elusive and predictive biomarkers are lacking. In the present study we therefore aim to identify molecular biomarkers in primary tumors that are associated with RAI refractoriness. Methods: A retrospective cohort of 63 NMTC patients, including all histological subtypes, was gathered for this study and consisted of RAI-sensitive differentiated NMTC patients (N=35) and RAI-refractory (poorly) differentiated NMTC patients (N=28). RAI sensitivity was defined as the response to RAI of residual disease after primary surgery (persistence and/or progression versus regression). Total DNA and RNA were extracted from archived formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tumor tissues. Extensive intratumoral mutation profiling, gene fusions analysis, TERT promoter mutation analysis and FFPE-compatible RNA sequencing were performed in all patients. In eight NMTC patients, available from an independent cohort, total circulating IGF2 concentrations were determined using ELISA before and after undergoing primary treatment.Results: RAI-refractory NMTC patients were diagnosed at an older age and displayed less favorable TNM staging as compared to RAI-sensitive NMTC patients. Genetic analyses revealed an increased mutational load in RAI-refractory NMTC, including mutations in AKT1, PTEN, TP53 and TERT promoter. Transcriptomic analyses revealed profound differential expression of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) with up to 100-fold higher expression in RAI-refractory NMTC as compared to RAI-sensitive NMTC cases. By ELISA we found significant lower IGF2 plasma concentrations after surgery and subsequent 131I RAI therapy in patients with NMTC compared to pretreatment baseline. Conclusions: Important clinical, genetic and transcriptomic differences between patients with RAI-sensitive NMTC and RAI-refractory NMTC were identified. Most notably an increased expression of IGF2 in RAI-refractory tumors. Plasma levels of IGF2 decreased post-therapy in NMTC patients from an independent cohort. These findings suggest that the tumor-promoting growth factor IGF2 has a potential role in acquiring RAI refractoriness.
Time to Develop Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Predictors Among HIV Infected Children Receiving Anti-Retroviral Therapy in Assosa and Pawe General Hospitals, North West Ethiopia 2020
Authors: bizuneh Fassikaw kebede , Boneya Dube Jara , Dessie Abebe Abate
Published: October 2020

Recently, pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) incidence is a serious co-infection and an emerging global concern for children living with human immune deficiency virus (HIV). However, the incidence of PTB among adult HIV patients is exhaustively studied; the incidence of PTB among children on ART is overlooked. This research provides invaluable time based relevant actionsclues.Objective:- Hospital-based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 359 HIV infected children those registered on ART since 2009-2018. Time to develop PTB defined as the time from enrollment for ART care until the development of PTB. The proportional hazard assumption was checked for each variable and no variable was found with Schoenfeld test <0.05. Variables with P-value <0.25 at bivariate Cox regression analysis were entered into the multivariable Cox model. Multivariable Cox regression model with 95%CI and AHR used to identify significant predictor. Result:-Totally 359 HIV infected children followed and produced 686.5 Person per Years of observation (PYOs) with minimum and maximum follow up time on ART was 0.34 & 5.1 years, respectively. The median age of the children was 9 (SD±3.78) years. The overall incidence density of PTB was 7.2 Person/100years in 95%CI (5.52--- 9.24).Notably being age group >= 11 years (AHR=5.1 95% CI 1.4--18.), who stage 3&4 (AHR= 3.4 times increase the risks of PTB developed was compared WHO clinical stage 1& 2 (AHR=3.4 95%CI: 1.2-9.7). Being sever underweight (AHR=3.2 95%CI: 1.3--7.8), not started INHAHR =2.8, 95%CI: 1.1 -7.2) and having previous opportunistic infections (AHR= 2.34 95%CI: 1.3--4.1) significantly associated with PTB incidence. Conclusion:-The incidence of PTB in HIV infected children were found higher as compared with evidence from previous findings. Strengthening intensified screening of INH and therapeutic feeding needs for risk children highly recommended.
Surgical Stabilization of Clavicle Fractures Reduces Organ Failure Rates in Multiply-injured Patients with Thoracic Trauma: An Analysis Based on the TraumaRegister DGU®.
Authors: Eberbach Helge , Lefering Rolf , Hager Sven , Schumm Klaus , Bode Lisa , Jaeger Martin , Maier Dirk , Kalbhenn Johannes , Hammer Thorsten , Schmal Hagen , Bayer Jörg
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Thoracic trauma has decisive influence on the outcome of multiply-injured patients and is often associated with clavicle fractures. The affected patients are prone to lung dysfunction and multiple organ failure. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of surgical stabilization of clavicle fractures in patients with thoracic trauma on specific outcome parameters. Methods: A multi-center, retrospective analysis of patient records documented in the TraumaRegister DGU® between 2009 and 2015 was performed. The inclusion criteria were multiply-injured patients with thoracic trauma and associated clavicle fracture, maximum AIS severity ≥ 3 and admission to the intensive care unit. The influence of operative vs. non-operative clavicular fracture treatment and timing of surgery on lung failure, multiple organ failure, sepsis, length of ICU stay, intubation time and length of hospital stay was assessed by regression analysis. Results: A total of 3,209 patients were included in the analysis. In 1,362 patients (42%) the clavicle fracture was treated operatively after 7.1 ± 5.3 days. Surgically treated patients had a significant reduction in lung failure (p = 0.013, OR = 0.74), multiple organ failure (p = 0.001, OR = 0.64), intubation time (p = 0.004; -1.81 days) and length of hospital stay (p = 0.014; -1.51 days) compared to non-operative treatment. Moreover, surgical fixation of the clavicle within five days following hospital admission significantly reduced the rates of lung failure (p = 0.01, OR = 0.62), multiple organ failure (p = 0.01, OR = 0.59) and length of hospital stay (p = 0.01; -2.1 days). Conclusions: Based on our results, multiply-injured patients with thoracic trauma and concomitant clavicle fracture seem to benefit significantly from surgical stabilization of a clavicle fracture, especially when surgery is performed within the first five days after hospital admission.
Successful Management of Rhabdomyolysis with Acute Infection Resulting from Chronic Sacrococcygeal Pressure Ulcers in a Paraplegic Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Huang Kai , Zhu Yansheng
Published: October 2020

Background: Rhabdomyolysis, a potentially life-threatening syndrome, is caused by the breakdown of skeletal muscle cells and leakage of intramyocellular contents into the bloodstream. The treatment of cases with rhabdomyolysis resulting from chronic sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers have been rarely reported.Case presentation: A 62-year-old man suffered from high fever and dark-colored urine. For the past 30 years, the patient has lived with paraplegia, which led to his immobility. According to his physical examination, the wound on his sacrococcygeal region was dehisced and exuded repeatedly with loss of skin sensation. Upon corroboration of a physical examination and laboratory tests, the patient was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis with an acute infection resulting from sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers. We first debrided the necrotic tissue, and then the chronic ulcer was repaired. The wound dressing was changed frequently, and antimicrobial therapy and nutritional support were included in the treatment. The fever and dark-colored urine were gradually relieved post-operatively. Renal function was also improved according to the typical indicators in laboratory tests. Additionally, the size of the pressure ulcers was reduced, to some extent. The patient was discharged after one month of hospitalization.Conclusions: Accurate diagnosis is critical for clinicians to administer precise treatment to paraplegic patients with progressive rhabdomyolysis.
Influence of Television Food Advertisements Related Purchasing Behaviours on Dietary Intake and Obesity Among Children in China
Authors: Xian Jinli , Zeng Mao , Cai Zhengjie , Xie Changxiao , Xie Yuqian , Sharma Manoj , Zhao Yong , Shi Zumin
Published: October 2020

Background: This study aims to examine the effects of Television (TV) food advertisements (ads) related purchasing behaviours on children’s dietary intake, overweight and obesity in China. Methods: Data from 1,417 children (aged 6–17.99 years) in the 2011 China Health and Nutrition Survey were analysed. TV food ads related purchasing behaviours were assessed through the frequency of children’s requests to purchase advertised foods and the frequency of parents’ purchases of these advertised foods, as well as the frequency of children’s purchases of advertised foods. The height and weight of children were measured. Logistic regression models were used to identify the associations between TV food ads related purchasing behaviours and overweight/obesity of children.Results: TV food ads related purchasing behaviours were positively associated with children’s dietary intake of energy, protein, fat and carbohydrates. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, TV food ads related purchasing behaviours were positively associated with children’s overweight/obesity: OR (95% CI) for overweight/obesity were: 1.46 (1.01–2.11) for children purchasing advertised foods, 1.59 (1.15–2.18) for parents purchasing advertised foods for their children and 1.39 (0.99–1.95) for children requesting advertised foods.Conclusions: TV food ads related purchasing behaviours are associated with children’s dietary intake. Moreover, TV food ads related purchasing behaviours can increase the risk of overweight and obesity of children. Regulations on TV food ads should be considered in China.
Establishment of a New Orthotopic Perirenal-Space-Grafted Mouse Model of Retroperitoneal Sarcoma
Authors: Xie Fu'an , Qin Dongmei , Lian Lanlan , Li Ming , Kong Xu , Xia Xiaogang , Huang Liyong , Chen Jun , Yu Chundong , Luo Chenghua , Li Wengang
Published: October 2020

Background: Retroperitoneal sarcoma is a group of tumour originating from mesenchymal tissue in the retroperitoneal space. Although its incidence is lower than other tumours, retroperitoneal sarcoma has attracted increasing attention due to their high degree of malignancy, high recurrence rate and younger tendency. At present, the available treatments for retroperitoneal sarcoma are limited due to a lack of basic research and appropriate animal models. Results: In this study, two human sarcoma cell lines (dedifferentiated liposarcoma cell line SW872 and fibrosarcoma cell line HT1080) were selected to establish an orthotopic xenotransplantation retroperitoneal sarcoma mouse model. To achieve this, sarcoma cells labelled with GFP-Luc-Puro tag were inoculated into the perirenal space of nude mice. We evaluated the model by live imaging, histopathology and transcriptome analysis. Doxorubicin and Cisplatin were used to test the response of this model to chemotherapy drugs. The abdominal bulge of mice was obvious after 15 days for HT1080 and 30 days for SW872. Obvious chemical signals could be detected by an imaging system (IVIS Lumina Ⅱ), and a solid tumour was visible in the abdominal cavity of live mice by MRI in vivo. Solid tumours inoculated in the perirenal space were significantly larger than subcutaneous tumours. Moreover, solid tumours treated with doxorubicin and cisplatin were significantly smaller than those treated with PBS. Through transcriptome analysis, we found serval signal pathway associated with tumorigenesis including TNF and NF-κB signaling pathways. Notably, a significant increase in copy number of MDM2 and a significant reduction in TP53, consistent with a shift in the MDM2/TP53 axis, with the most decisive genomic event contributing to liposarcoma development.Conclusions: In summary, we successfully established an orthotopic xenotransplantation model of retroperitoneal sarcoma, which can be used to study the initiation and development of retroperitoneal sarcoma, drug screening, diagnostic methods and new surgical procedures.
Online, face to face and hybrid meetings. What is the new normal in the COVID-19 era? A global collaborative survey by iTRUE group and UroSoMe working group
Authors: Castellani Daniele , Hameed BM Zeeshan , Tanidir Yiloren , Naik Nithesh , Teoh Jeremy Yuen-Chun , Shah Milap , Wroclawski Marcelo Langer , Kunjibettu Afrah Budnar , Ibrahim Sufyan , Silva Rodrigo Donalisio da , Rai Bhavan , Rosette J.J.M.C.H. de la , TP Rajeev , Gauhar Vineet , Somani Bhaskar
Published: October 2020

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic there was a significant increase in online webinars, which were universally available and advertised via Social Media, eliminating geographic restrictions thereby achieving a broader audience.Objective: The primary outcome of our survey was to see how virtual meetings would fare vis a vis face-to-face meeting, and if there would any future role of a “hybrid" meeting concept. The secondary outcome was to find out the best webinar/ virtual meeting settings.Design, setting, and participants: An online global survey was done between 6th June, 2020 to 5th July 2020 via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/K26B5RQ. Using Delphi method, the survey questions were designed regarding webinars, face to face meetings and hybrid meetings, and circulated.Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: Categorical data were presented with counts and percentages, and comparison was done using Chi-square test and answers to Likert-like scale questions using the Mann-Whitney U test.Results and limitations: A total of N=526 urologists from 56 countries responded to the survey, of which N=386(73.38%) completed the questionnaire. The overall experience of participants was better in the face-to-face meeting followed by a hybrid meeting and webinar. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the preference for the type of conference was that of a hybrid meeting N=199(51%) than the webinar N=95(25%), using Zoom platform N= 283(73%) on laptop/desktop as the device of choice N=267(69%) and believed that a 1-hour webinar N=196(51%) was ideal at evening time N=277(72%) with 3-5 speakers N=242(62%) for each meeting. Although urology residents rated face-to-face meetings to have better cost-effectiveness when compared to consultants.Conclusions: The current pandemic has shown a trend towards online webinars; however, they are not a substitution to face-to-face meetings. Our survey shows an increased preference towards a hybrid meeting in the coming future which would be ideal for global participation, adding value to money and time.
Digital Identification and Reconstruction of Degraded Regions in the Ancient Temple Murals Using Exemplar Based Region Filling Algorithm
Authors: V Rakhimol , Maheswari Uma
Published: October 2020

A mural is any piece of artwork sculpted or applied directly on a wall, ceiling, or other permanent surfaces. This artwork symbolizes various cultures, traditions, historical events, spiritual stories, and civilizations of respective societies of ancient times. But these mural paintings are subjected to degradation either by various natural causes as well as pollution or by human beings without knowing its value. Hence, there is a need to develop a digitized model using advanced image processing techniques to reconstruct them for portraying the ancient heritage and wisdom hidden in the temple mural paintings to public and foreign visitors and transferring the knowledge to the young generations. This Work uses an exemplar-based region filling algorithm for the reconstruction of ancient deteriorated temple murals. Most of the existing inpainting algorithms use pixel-based reconstruction criteria, this type of technique does not work well for images with large degraded portions. So the proposed exemplar-based region filling algorithm uses a patch-based reconstruction procedure and masked images are created automatically using an averaging pixel algorithm. The deteriorated portions are identified by creating masks, masks are created in such a way that degraded portions have a pixel intensity value of one and the remaining part has a value of zero, and filling is done by analyzing the surrounding pixel values of the degraded pixel. The proposed work reconstructs both the structure and texture information and ensures an efficient reconstructed result compared to existing inpainting techniques. The system performance is evaluated by metrics such as Mean Square Error, Peak Signal To Noise Ratio (PSNR), and Structural Similarity Index(SSIM).
Role of Chemoradiation (CRT) in the Adjuvant Treatment of Radically Resected Pancreatic Cancer (PC) Patients: A Mono-Institutional Retrospective Analysis.
Authors: Mattiucci Gian Carlo , Salvatore Lisa , D'Aviero Andrea , Bagalà Cinzia , Bensi Maria , Castronovo Francesco Mosè , Cellini Francesco , Franco Paola De , Stefano Brunella Di , Macchia Gabriella , Masiello Valeria , Menghi Roberta , Quero Giuseppe , Reina Sara , Morganti Alessio Giuseppe , Alfieri Sergio , Tortora Giampaolo , Valentini Vincenzo
Published: October 2020

BackgroundPancreatic cancer (PC) represents an unfavorable prognosis disease, even in patients with resectable disease. The aim of this series was to investigate the role of treatment intensification with adjuvant chemoradiation (CRT) in radically resected PC patients. MethodsData from PC patients undergone radical surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy (CT) and CRT throughout a 20-year period were retrospectively collected. Actuarial local control (LC) and the overall survival (OS) were the primary endpoints, while secondary end-points were the disease-free-survival (DFS) and metastases-free-survival (MFS). ResultsThe analysis included 108 PC patients treated with adjuvant CRT and CT from January 2000 to August 2019. Median age was 66 years (range: 40-83), all patients underwent radical surgical resection with adjuvant chemotherapy (88, 81,5%) plus concomitant chemoradiation (101, 93,5%) or radiotherapy alone (7, 6,5%). The median dose delivered on tumor bed was 50,4 Gy (range: 45-50,6 Gy), while median dose on regional lymphatic drainage stations was 39,6 Gy (range 39,6-45 Gy. Concomitant CT was gemcitabine-based regimen in the vast majority of patients (87, 80.6%). Median follow-up time was 21 months; the 2- and 5-years LC rate were 75,8% and 59,1%, respectively. Perineural invasion (PNI) at pathological assessment was found significantly associated to LC (p=0.028). Median OS was 40 months with 2- and 5-years OS rate of 73.9% and 41,6 % respectively.ConclusionsThe outcomes of this series strongly suggest that the impact of adjuvant CRT should be deeply investigated in PC patients. Timing, combination of modern CRT with new systemic therapies need to be further investigated to personalize therapy and optimize clinical advantages.
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate Impairs Erythropoiesis via Inducing Klotho Expression and not via Bioenergetic Reprogramming
Authors: Tsai Chang-Yi , Fang Te-Ping , Chen Shuoh-Wen , Chen Hsiao-Wen , Lin Eric Chang-Yi , Lin Ting-An , Tarng Der-Cherng , Chang Yuan-I
Published: October 2020

Background: Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) is one of the phthalates most widely used to manufacture various plastic products. However, the potential effects of DEHP on erythropoiesis have not been investigated comprehensively. Here, we aimed to investigate whether DEHP modulate the function of haematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) to influence erythropoiesis, and to explore the associated mechanism.Results: In the present study, human cell lines with a capacity to differentiate into erythroid cells and murine bone marrow cells were treated with DEHP. DEHP not only impaired HSPC function but also suppressed erythroid differentiation in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, DEHP removal restored HSPC activity. To explore how DEHP interferes with erythroid differentiation, we focused on energy metabolism and Klotho expression. DEHP suppressed erythroid differentiation via upregulation of Klotho expression in erythroblasts and not via cellular bioenergetic modulation.Conclusion: Here, we have demonstrated a novel pathophysiological role of DEHP in erythroid differentiation. DEHP impaired erythroid differentiation by inducing Klotho expression and not by reprogramming cellular bioenergetic profiles during differentiation.
Migration among Farmers in Delta State, Nigeria: Is it a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy?
Authors: Ofuoku Albert , Okompu Davina
Published: October 2020

Objective: The study has the purpose of evaluating the nexus between climate change and migration of farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. The influence exerted by cognitive situations and climate – driven stress on farmers’ decisions to migrate and the socioeconomic attributes of migrating and non-migrating farm families are examined. The emphasis is the function of migration in accessing climate and agricultural extension services as well as the contribution made by migration to promote farmers’ climate change coping capacity.Methodology: Survey was articulated using farming households in three agricultural zones of Delta State, Nigeria. Perceptions of farmers about alterations in climate were examined with the use of mental map technique. Binary logistic regression model was applied to assess the function of socioeconomic attributes of farm families while descriptive statistics was employed in evaluating the adaptive capacities of the migrating farming households.Findings: Climate – driven livelihood variables form part of the main propellers of migration among farmers. Migration as well as the socioeconomic attributes are influenced by perception of farmers about climate change. These appears significant difference between migrating and non-migrating farm families with respect to utilization of information, technology and knowledge emanating from agricultural and climate extension services. The gains from remittances, knowledge and social networks from host communities or zones raises migrating farm families capacity to adapt to climate change.Theoretical Implications: This paper contributes to the progressively dynamic body of knowledge by pointing out migration as an alternative climate change adaptation strategy to promote agriculture food security in any part of the world.Originality/Value: Micro – evidence is offered by this study with respect to contribution made by migration to adaptive capacity of farmers and their ability to have access to agricultural and climate extension services. This will be useful in the analysis of climate – driven migration in other nations that are agricultural economies. Insight is also offered regarding policy needs for the scaling down of farmers’ vulnerability to climate change.
Locking Plate Fixation versus Hemiarthroplasty for Complex Proximal Humeral Fractures: an Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Li Xugang , Qiu Xusheng , Qi Xiaoyang
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThis updated systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to compare clinical efficacy and safety of locking plate fixation (LPF) and hemiarthroplasty (HAP) for surgical treatment of complex proximal humeral fractures (PHFs).MethodsFive electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, Wanfang database and the Cochrane Library) were searched from their start dates to July 2020 to identify all relevant studies. Our main endpoints were Constant–Murley score (efficacy), and method-related complications and revisions (safety). Cochrane Collaboration’s RevMan 5.3 was used for meta-analysis.ResultsSixteen retrospective trials and one randomized controlled trial involving a total of 936 patients (506 patients in the LPF group and 430 patients in the HAP group) were included in this analysis. The Constant–Murley score was significantly higher with LPF than with HAP [SMD=0.73, 95%CI: (0.23, 1.22)]. In subgroup analysis however, there was no significant difference in Constant-Murley score between LPF and HAP for four-part fractures [SMD=0.35, 95%CI (-0.07, 0.77)] or for subjects over 60 years of age [SMD=0.54, 95%CI: (-0.45, 1.52)]. Revision rate [OR=3.61, 95%CI (1.99, 6.56)] and postoperative complications [OR=1.80, 95%CI (1.24, 2.61)] were significantly lower with HAP than with LPF.ConclusionsIn general, for treatment of complex PHFs, LPF was superior to HAP in postoperative shoulder joint function assessed by the Constant–Murley score. However, there was no significant difference in efficacy for patients with four-part fractures or those older than 60 years of age. Since LPF was associated with significantly higher revision and postoperative complications rates, we suggest that HAP should be considered the preferred procedure for patients older than 60 years with four-part proximal humeral fractures.
Ensemble Machine Learning of Factors Influencing COVID-19 Across US Counties
Authors: McCoy David , Mgbara Whitney , Horvitzc Nir , Getz Wayne M. , Hubbard Alan
Published: October 2020

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) the causal agent for COVID-19, is a communicable disease spread through close contact. It is known to disproportionately infect certain communities due to both biological susceptibility and inequitable exposure. In this study, we investigate the most important health, social, and environmental factors impacting both the early and later phases of COVID-19 transmission and mortality in US counties.Methods: We aggregate county-level physical and mental health, environmental pollution, access to health care, demographic characteristics, vulnerable population scores, and other epidemiological data to create a large feature set to analyze COVID-19 outcomes. Because of the high-dimensionality and multicollinearity of the data, we use ensemble machine learning and marginal prediction methods to identify the most salient factors associated with several COVID-19 outbreak measures.Findings: Our variable importance results show that measures of ethnicity, public transportation and preventable diseases are the strongest drivers for both incidence and mortality. Specifically, the CDC measures for minority populations, CDC measures for limited English, and proportion of Black/African-American individuals in a county were the most important features for COVID-19 cases at day 25 and to date. For mortality at day 100 and total to date, we find that public transportation use and proportion of Black/African-American individuals in a county are the strongest predictors. The methods predict that, keeping all other factors fixed, a 10% increase in public transportation use increases mortality at day 100 by 2012 (95% CI [1972, 2356]) and likewise a 10% increase in the proportion of Black/African-American individuals in a county increases total deaths to date by 2067 (95% CI [1189, 2654]). In terms of cases to date, ethnicity turns out to almost twice as important as the next most important factors, which are location, disease prevalence, and transit factors.Interpretations: Our findings indicate that a more focused approach should be taken when managing COVID-19, by considering features of the economy most responsible for transmission and sectors of society most vulnerable to infection and mortality. In particular, our results strongly reinforce others pointing to the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on minority populations. They also suggests that mitigation measures, including rolling out vaccinations as they become available, will be most efficacious for the US population as a whole when, beyond healthcare workers and first responders, are focused first on the highest-risk communities.Funding: UC Berkeley, Biomedical Big Data Training Fellowship; NSF Grant 2032264 to WMG and AH.
PM2.5 can Promote the Alzheimer's Disease-like Changes through Microglia Related Mechanism in Mice
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Li Jie , Wang Jia , Sun Wenping , Fang Qiuyuan , Meng Meiling , Zhang Xiao , Jia Ruxue , Li Xiaojing , Meng Xianzong , Song Laiyu
Published: October 2020

Background: PM2.5, the main particulate air pollutant, poses serious hazard to human health. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major neurodegenerative disease characterized by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Recent studies reported that PM could promote AD-like pathologies in human brain. However, the mechanism of PM2.5-induced AD-like changes is still unclear and more investigations are needed for further understanding.Methods: In this study, we established experimental model of long-term PM2.5 exposure with young/old wildtype C57BL/6 and APP/PS transgenic mice. Behavior assessments were monitored after four weeks of exposure. The changes of blood cells were detected by Complete Blood Count and splenic macrophages were detected by flow cytometry. Immunohistochemical staining was used to observe the damage of PM2.5 on neurons, the deposition of Aβ and the changes of microglia. RNA-seq was used to analyze the whole genome changes of hippocampus after PM2.5 exposure. In addition, microglia related genes were analyzed via Real-time PCR. Results: After mice were exposed to PM2.5 for a month, some AD-like behavioral changes, such as learning and memory impairment were detected especially in old and transgenic mice. The histopathological changes, such as β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition, morphological changes of microglia, as well as great impairments of hippocampus neurons but not cortex neurons were observed. The analyze of whole-genome expression in the hippocampus suggested long term PM2.5 exposure changed the expression of genes related with AD process (mouse behavior and microglia differentiation). Furthermore, the mRNA level, which related to microglia, of CD86, CD22, IL-1β was upregulated and CD206, TREM2, TGF-β2 was downregulated. Conclusions: Aged population were more susceptible to long-term PM2.5 exposure and PM2.5 could promote AD-like phenotype through microglia related mechanism.
A comparative Study of Physic-Chemical Properties of Certain Cerium Doped Li7La3-xCexZr2O12 Ceramic Oxides
Authors: jaisankar v , Dharanibalaji KC , Sivakumar E K T
Published: October 2020

Solid-state electrolytes have emerged as a promising alternative material for next-generation Li-ion batteries due to their safety and reliability. In this investigation, we report the synthesis of Cerium(Ce) doped Li7La3Zr2O12(LLZO) ceramic oxide which has a garnet-like structure and in which Ce3+ typically occupies La3+ sites. The synthesised LLZO ceramic oxide is doped with various weight percentages of cerium(Ce3+) by sol-gel method using oxalic acid as a complexing agent and ethane-1,2-diol as a surface-active agent. The synthesised Li7La3-xCexZr2O12 garnet is screened for surface morphology, chemical composition, and phase transition by various analytical techniques. The surface morphology and composition were analysed by HR-SEM with EDX analysis respectively. The cubic face formed was confirmed by XRD results. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates the thermal stability of the prepared materials. The effect of addition of various weight percentages of cerium with LLZO on ionic conductivity was analysed using ac impedance spectroscopy and compared. The maximum ionic conductivity measured was 6.34×10-5Scm-1. The potential window was examined by cyclic voltammetry (CV), which showed that the lithium deposition and dissolution peak appeared around 0V.Li+/Li and no further reaction beyond 5.8V vs Li+/Li.The results showed that these materials could be used as a potential alternative material in the fabrication of lithium-ion batteries.
The Relationship Between the PPARδ-87T>C Polymorphism and Colorectal Cancer Risk in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Zhou ZongGuang , Dong Bo , Yang Lie , Zhou Bin , Zhang Dan , Meng Wen-Jian , Wang Mo-Jin , Liu Yong , Li Yuan , Sun Xiao-Feng
Published: October 2020

BackgroundPeroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-β/δ (PPARβ/δ) is a transcription factor that has the potential to be associated with the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the exact role of PPARδ in the context of CRC development remains to be clarified. This present study was thus designed to understand the association between CRC risk and the PPARδ-87T>C single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in a western Chinese Han population. MethodsThe PPARδ-87T>C (rs2016520) polymorphism was analyzed via the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) approach in 410 CRC patients and 496 frequency-matched healthy controls via a case-control study design. Relationships between PPARδ-87T>C polymorphisms and clinicopathological parameters were assessed using Pearson chi-squared tests or Fisher's exact test, Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to evaluate the association between the PPARδ-87T>C SNP and CRC risk. ResultsWe observed significant differences in genotypic frequencies when comparing CRC patients (TT 62%, TC 32%, and CC 6.1%) and controls (TT 65.5%, TC 32,3%, and CC 22%). In addition, PPARδ-87T>C genotype was associated with tumor differentiation (P=0.033), but was unrelated to clinicopathological parameters in CRC patients. An unconditioned logistic regression model analysis revealed that individuals harboring the homozygous CC genotype exhibited an elevated CRC risk relative to those harboring the TT genotype (OR=2.931,95% CI =1.41- 6.08; P=0.004).ConclusionsOur findings indicate that the homozygous PPARδ-87T>C CC genotype is associated with an elevated CRC risk as compared to the homozygous TT genotype, indicating that PPARδ-87T>C polymorphisms have the potential to serve as a marker for CRC risk. Keywords PPARδ, Colorectal cancer (CRC), Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP)
Analysis of COVID-19 Case Fatality Rates in the States and Union Territories of India
Authors: Upadhyay Ashwini Kumar , Shukla Shreyanshi
Published: October 2020

Although the Covid-19 Case Fatality Rate (CFR) in the Indian States and UTs has been changing with time, some states constantly appear to show significantly higher CFR than the national average. Our objective is to calculate the CFR of all the states/UTs of India and analyse the possible factors behind the disparities in it. Research papers and news articles on Covid-19 were explored to understand the factors responsible for the CFR disparities in the States/UTs. State-wise CFR was calculated and Correlated with Covid-19 Testing Rates and data from Demographic & Healthcare factors, using Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient Methodology. The overall Covid-19 CFR in India was among the lowest (1.76%) in the world but varied vastly from one state to another. Where the states like Punjab and Maharashtra constantly have the highest CFR in the country, states like Assam, Kerala, and Bihar have the lowest. In the correlation analysis, a weak agreement (+0.33) between state-wise CFR and ‘Test Positive Rate’ was found. CFR and ‘Life Expectancy at 60’ showed a moderate agreement (+0.49). Healthcare components like ‘Number of Doctors Per Million People’ and ‘Number of Hospital Beds’ showed very weak agreement with CFR. Where the higher Life Expectancy and Test Positive Rates clearly tend to increase CFR, Healthcare Facilities had surprisingly little effect on it. Analyses of various news articles suggested that Comorbidities, Availability of Essential Drugs, Trained Manpower, Contact Tracings, and Hospital Referral Time were also some of the major factors affecting CFR.
Incidence of Bacteremia at the Time of ICU Admission and its Impact on Outcome
Authors: Jose B Cherayath  , Jitin George
Published: October 2020

Background: For patients admitted in ICU, if they are suspected with infection, at admission time, blood culture is taken. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the bacteraemia incidence at the ICU admission time, and assess its impact on the outcome.Subjects and Methods:This is a retrospective study which was conducted in a tertiary hospital. At time of admission, data from all the ICU admissions with suspected sepsis were analysed over a period of July 2016 to June 2018. The positive blood culture group (Group A) consisted of patients with clinically significant BSI.Results:600 patients were selected in the study. 250 patients out of 600 patients (42%) were on antibiotics. 380 patients out of 600 patients (63%) were direct ICU admission from casualty, 70 patients from hospital wards (11%), 45 patients from other ICU’s in the hospital (8%) and 105 patients from other hospitals (18%). Blood cultures were positive only in 70 patients (11.6%) with significant BSI. ICU mortality was significantly higher in positive blood culture group (i.e. 30/70), when compared with negative blood culture group (i.e. 68/530). Mortality was higher in patients with pseudomonas aeruginosa (75%) though it was not statistically significant.Conclusion:In the ICU, only in minority of patients with suspected infection, blood cultures may be positive. Even though the patients are administered with antibiotics, prognosis of the patients with positive blood culture is worse.