bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urinary SARS-CoV-2 RNA is An Indicator For The Progression and Prognosis of COVID-19 Disease
Authors: Tian Maoqing , Zhang Lu , Zhu Kai , Shen Bo , Wang Gang , Song Yuan , Chen Cheng , Liang Wei , Guan Yang , Ding Guohua , Lei Tiechi , Li Xiaogang , Xie Jingyuan , Tong Yongqing , Wang Huiming
Published: February 2021

Background: We aimed to analyse clinical characteristics and find potential factors predicting poor prognosis in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: We analyzed the demographic and clinical data of COVID-19 patients and detected SARS-CoV-2 RNA in urine sediments collected from 53 COVID-19 patients enrolled in Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from January 31, 2020 to February 18, 2020 with qRT-PCR analysis, and then classified those patients based on clinical conditions (severe or non-severe syndrome) and urinary SARS-CoV-2 RNA (URNA- or URNA+). Results: We found that COVID-19 patients with severe syndrome (severe patients) showed significantly higher positive rate (11 of 23, 47.8%) of urinary SARS-CoV-2 RNA than non-severe patients (4 of 30, 13.3%, p = 0.006). URNA+ patients or severe URNA+ subgroup exhibited higher prevalence of inflammation and immune discord, cardiovascular diseases, liver damage and renal disfunction, and higher risk of death than URNA- patients. To understand the potential mechanisms underlying the viral urine shedding, we performed renal histopathological analysis on postmortems of patients with COVID-19 and found that severe renal vascular endothelium lesion characterized by increase of the expression of thrombomodulin and von Willebrand factor, markers to assess the endothelium dysfunction. We proposed a theoretical and mathematic model to depict the potential factors determining the urine shedding of SARS-CoV-2. Conclusions: This study indicated that urinary SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected in urine specimens can be used to predict the progression and prognosis of COVID-19 severity.
Predictors of antibiotic prescriptions: a knowledge, attitude and practice survey among physicians in tertiary hospitals in Nigeria
Authors: Ogoina Dimie , Iliyasu Garba , Kwaghe Vivian , Otu Akan , Akase Iorhen Ephram , Adekanmbi Olukemi , Dalhat Mahmmod , Iroezindu Micheal , Aliyu Shamsudin , Oyeyemi Abisoye Sunday , Rotifa Stella , Adeiza Mukhtar Abdulmajid , Unigwe Uche Sonny , Mmerem Juliet Ijeoma , Dayyab Farouq Muhammad , Habib Zaiyad Garba , Otokpa Daniel , Effa Emmanuel , Habib Abdulrazaq Garba
Published: February 2021

BackgroundAs part of the Global Action Plan against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), countries are required to generate local evidence to inform context-specific implementation of national action plans against AMR (NAPAR). We aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding antibiotic prescriptions (APR) and AMR among physicians in tertiary hospitals in Nigeria, and to determine predictors of KAP of APR and AMR. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we enrolled physicians practicing in tertiary hospitals from all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASP) by each selected hospital were assessed using a 12 item ASP checklist. We used a structured self-administered questionnaire to assess the KAP of APR and AMR. Frequency of prescriptions of 18 different antibiotics in the prior six months was assessed using a Likert’s scale. KAP and prescription (Pr) scores were classified as good (score≥80%) or average/poor (score<80%). Independent predictors of good knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAPPr) were ascertained using an unconditional logistic regression model. ResultsA total of 1324 physicians out of 1778 (74% response rate) practicing in 12 tertiary hospitals in 11 states across all six geopolitical zones participated in the study. None of the participating hospitals had a formal ASP programme and majority did not implement antimicrobial stewardship strategies. The median KAPPr scores were 71.1%, 77 %, 75% and 53.3%, for the knowledge, attitude, practice, and prescription components, respectively. Only 22.3%, 40.3%, 31.6% and 31.7% of study respondents had good KAPPr, respectively. All respondents had prescribed one or more antibiotics in the prior six months, mostly Amoxicillin-clavulanate (98%), fluoroquinolones (97%), and ceftriaxone (96.8%). About 68% of respondents had prescribed antibiotics from the World Health Organization (WHO) reserve group. Prior AMR training, professional rank, department, and hospital of practice were independently associated with good KAPPr.ConclusionsOur study suggests gaps in knowledge and attitude of APR and AMR with inappropriate prescriptions of antibiotics among physicians practicing in tertiary hospitals in Nigeria. Nigeria’s NAPAR should also target establishment and improvement of ASP in hospitals and address institutional, educational, and professional factors that may influence emergence of AMR in Nigeria.
High strain response and low hysteresis in BaZrO3-modified KNN-based lead-free relaxor ceramics
Authors: Zhang Jian , Liu Zixuan , Zhang Tao , Liu Yunfei , Lyu Yinong
Published: February 2021

The high driving electric field and the large strain hysteresis was subject to a challenge for piezoelectric actuators’ practical applications. In order to obtain the piezoceramics with giant strain and low hysteresis at small electric field, a ternary solid solution (0.97- x )(K 0.48 Na 0.52 )Nb 0.965 Sb 0.035 -0.03Bi 0.5 (K 0.18 Na 0.82 ) 0.5 ZrO 3 - x BaZrO 3 ( x = 0-0.06) was designed and synthesized by the traditional solid-state reaction method. The relationships among phase transition, microstructure, and electrical properties of the ceramics samples were systemically investigated. Under a low electric field of 4 kV/mm, the ceramic with x = 0.02 obtained a high strain of 0.29 % ( S max / E max = 729 pm/V) and a low hysteresis of 13.8 %. The excellent piezoelectric properties are mainly attributed to rhombohedral-orthorhombic-tetragonal (R-O-T) phase boundary and the relaxor-to-ferroelectric phase transition. We believe that our research can not only provide the pathway of achieving KNN-based ceramics with high strain and low hysteresis but also promote the practical application of lead-free piezoelectric actuators.
Scrutinizing the Stability and Exploring the Dependence of Thermoelectric Properties on Band Structure of 3d Metal-Based Double Perovskites: An ab-initio Analysis
Authors: Mir Shabir Ahmad , Gupta Dinesh C.
Published: February 2021

Through the conventional DFT computation, we have designed new oxide double perovskites Ba2BNiO6 (B = Fe and Co). The structural and thermodynamic stabilities are defined by optimizing the crystal energy and determination of tolerance factor and cohesive energies. Thereafter, at the optimized lattice constant, we have explored the different physical properties. The GGA+mBJ electronic band-structure depicts the semiconducting nature for Ba2CoNiO6 while half-metallic with 100% spin polarization for Ba2FeNiO6. The origin of such a diverse band profile upon changing Fe to Co is explained with the help of the orbital diagram and exchange interaction. The eg-eg interaction is strong in these perovskites compared to eg-t2g and t2g-t2g hybridization. The strong exchange interaction among eg states via O-p states happens because the B-O-Ni angle is strictly 180°. Furthermore, due to the narrow bandgaps, we have explored the transport properties to express the applicability of these materials towards thermoelectric technology. Also, herein we have investigated the dependency of transport properties on band profile. The semiconducting nature in Ba2CoNiO6 results in a high ZT~0.8 at room temperature makes it suitable for energy restoration.
Identification of prognostic biomarkers and potential regulatory axes for acute myeloid leukemia based on a competitive endogenous RNA network
Authors: Li Mingde , Chen Ying , Chen Zhaowu , Chen Ming , Huo Xingxing , Bu Su
Published: February 2021

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common heterogeneous hematological malignancy with unclear pathogenesis and high mortality. Non-coding RNAs have recently received extensive attention. This study explored the potential mechanisms of interaction during the development of AML by analyzing a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network.
Methods

To obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs), the transcripts and clinical AML data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Bioinformatic analysis was used to predict the function annotation and RNA interaction. The data were used to construct a ceRNA regulatory network and survival analysis was used to discover key genes and predict potential regulatory axes. Quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to detect DEGs in HL-60 and THP-1 cell lines to verify the prediction.
Results

A ceRNA regulatory AML network with 164 lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory axes was constructed and visualized by Cytoscape software. Six lncRNAs were screened as potential prognostic factors for AML by survival analysis. Additionally, hsa-mir-206 and NFAT5 were discovered as key nodes in the ceRNA network. A CTB-193M12.1/hsa-mir-206/NFAT5 axis that was consistent with the ceRNA theory was identified. The qRT-PCR result showed that, compared with the normal control group, the expression of hsa-mir-206 in HL-60 and THP-1 cells was significantly decreased, while that of NFAT5 was moderately increased.
Conclusions

Therefore, the obtained ceRNA network and the CTB-193M12.1/hsa-mir-206/NFAT5 axis here may provide new view for exploring the pathogenic mechanisms of AML. NFAT5 and hsa-mir-206 were novel clinical predictors that may become key genes in AML.
Numerical optimization for the geometrical configuration of ceramics perform in ZTAP/HCCI wear resistant composites based on actual particle model
Authors: Xu Ruiju , Lu Tianlong , Zhang Jiankang , Jiang Yehua , Chong Xiaoyu , Feng Jing
Published: February 2021

In order to reduce the thermal stress in high chromium cast iron (HCCI) matrix composites reinforced by zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) ceramic particles, finite element simulation is performed to optimize the geometrical configuration of ceramics perform. The previous model simplifies the overall structure of the ceramic particle preform and adds boundary conditions to simulate the particles, which will cause uncontrollable error in the results. In this work, the equivalent grain models are used to describe the actual preform, making the simulation results closer to the actual experimental results. The solidification process of composite material is simulated and the infiltration between molten iron and ceramic particles was realized. Thermal stress in solidification process and compression stress distribution are obtained. The results show that adding 10mm round holes on the preform can improve the performance of the composite, which is helpful to prevent the cracks and increases the plasticity of the material.
Cervico-thoracic pain and associated impairments in air force personnel: a cross-sectional cohort study
Authors: Tegern Matthias , Aasa Ulrika , Larsson Helena
Published: February 2021

Background:Pain and impaired function in the cervical region is common in Air Force personnel (AFP), but evidence is limited regarding the thoracic region. This cross-sectional cohort study examined associations between cervico-thoracic pain and physical performance among Swedish AFP and explored possible differences and similarities in test performance between fighter pilots (FP), helicopter pilots (HP) and rear crew (RC).Methods:AFP (n=73) from one airbase performed eight tests of movement control of the spine, active cervical range of motion (ROM) in all six directions and isometric strength and endurance of the cervical flexors and extensors. The association between test performance and cervico-thoracic pain (based on the ´Musculoskeletal screening protocol´ questionnaire) were analysed in a multiple binary logistic regression model.Results:For AFP with cervico-thoracic pain (30%), movement control was impaired in neck flexion (OR=3.61) and forward lean (OR=3.43) tests, together with reduced flexion ROM (OR=0.93). Test performance was in general similar between the three groups, but FP and HP could control the forward lean test to a higher degree than RC (p=0.000), FP were more flexible in lateral flexion to the right compared to HP and RC (p=0.000) and they showed higher flexor strength than RC (p=0.015).Conclusions:The impaired function associated with cervico-thoracic pain highlights the need for a deeper understanding of such relationships when designing tools to systematically optimize the physical performance and prevent pain among AFP. Studies with a longitudinal design are warranted to examine any causative associations between pain and impairments.
The predictor for Preoperative Coronal Imbalance in patients with Degenerative Lumbar Scoliosis--A related analysis on spinopelvic parameters
Authors: ZHANG Zifang , QI Dengbin , WANG Tianhao , WANG Zheng , WANG Yan
Published: February 2021

Background: The mechanism of coronal imbalance is still unclear. The relationships among CBD and major curve, L4 and L5 tilt have been reported, which were not explicit although. The aim of this retrospective study was to explore and examine the association between spinopelvic parameters and coronal balance distance (CBD) in degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) patients.Methods Following institutional ethics approval, the radiographs of 161 DLS patients were retrospectively reviewed. The coronal measurements involving CBD, L4 coronal tilt, L5 coronal tilt, fractional curve, pelvic coronal tilt, the Cobb angle and included vertebras of major curve were documented. All of those participants were divided into group A (CBD≥30mm) and group B (CBD < 30mm). Statistical analysis was performed to compare the difference of continuous and categorical variables. Pearson-Correlation, and Multiple-Regression Analysis were performed to explore the related parameter with CBD.Results The CBD in 31 (19.25%) DLS patients at pre-operation was over 30mm. With similar major Cobb angle, main curve of patients in the group A had less involving vertebras (P=0.009), but more rotation of the apical vertebra (P<0.001) compared with that in the group B respectively. Additionally, the L4 coronal tilt in group A was much larger (P=0.02). Pearson-correlation analysis showed that CBD had significant relationship with L4/L5 coronal tilt(P<0.001), weak relationship with fractional curve (P=0.027), but linearly independent with pelvic tilt and major Cobb. Stepwise Multiple- regression analysis revealed that only L4 tilt was the independent predictor for major Cobb and CBD.Conclusions The prevalence of coronal imbalance at pre-operation in DLS patients is about 20%. With similar major Cobb, the less the number of involving vertebra, the higher the incidence of coronal imbalance in DLS patients. L4 coronal tilt would be the predictive variable for progression of scoliosis and global coronal malalignment. Pelvis, the foundation of spine, had less effect on full-spine coronal balance.
Scientific Workflow Scheduling in Mobile Edge Computing Based on a Discrete Butterfly Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Lansky Jan , Mohammadi Mokhtar , Mohammed Adil Hussein , Karim Sarkhel H.Taher , Rashidi Shima , Rahmani Amir Masoud , Hosseinzadeh Mehdi
Published: February 2021

Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) is an interesting technology aimed at providing various processing and storage resources at the edge of the Internet of things (IoT) networks. However, MECs contain limited resources, and they should be managed effectively to improve resource utilization. Workflow scheduling is a process that tries to map the workflow tasks to the most proper set of computing resources regarding some objectives. For this purpose, this paper presents DBOA, a discrete version of the Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA) that applies the Levy flight to improve its convergence speed and prevent the local optima problem. Then, DBOA is applied for DVFS-based data-intensive workflow scheduling and data placement in MEC environments. This scheme also employs the HEFT algorithm's task prioritization method to find the task execution order in the scientific workflows. For evaluating the performance of the proposed scheduling scheme, extensive simulations are conducted on various well-known scientific workflows with different sizes. The obtained experimental results indicate that this method can outperform other algorithms regarding energy consumption, data access overheads, etc.
Feasibility and acceptability of “active” classroom material among French university students and lecturers: a pilot study
Authors: Grosprêtre Sidney , Ennequin Gael , Peseux Sophie , Isacco Laurie
Published: February 2021

Background: Sedentary lifestyles are a plague of today's society in terms of physical, psychosocial and cognitive health. Students are particularly at risk because they spend most of their daily time sitting and inactive. The current pedagogical model must be rethought in order to promote their health, well-being and therefore their success. The objective of this project was to equip one classroom of the sport university with various active workstations (steppers, pedalboards, cycling desk, Swiss-ball, etc...) and to evaluate the feasibility and the influence of this type of material on cognitive and psychological factors of the students and to collect the feedback of lecturers during this experience. The global adherence to such material among students and lecturers also need to be assessed before generalizing the use of such material, which represent a certain cost for institutions. Methods: A total of 663 students and 14 lecturers took part in a survey that aims at evaluating various aspects of lecture’s quality after their first experience in the classroom. Results: The majority of students and lecturers reported positive effects of such material, by a reduction in fatigue, distraction and boredom. The most plebiscited materials were the cycling-desks and the swiss balls. Finally, 89.4 % of students were in favor of using active material in future lectures if they had the possibility to, as well as 71% of lecturers, demonstrating the global acceptance of such material. Conclusion: The present study brings promising results toward a more general implementation of such material in universities. Once a familiarization period is observed, such material in classroom could help prevent the deleterious effect of sedentary behavior as well as promoting a more active dailylife for the future workers represented by students.
Predialysis Serum Lactate Levels Can Predict Dialysis Withdrawal in Type 1 Cardiorenal Syndrome Patients
Authors: Pan Heng-Chih , Wu Vincent
Published: February 2021

Type 1 cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a complication with grave outcomes, and renal replacement therapy (RRT) is an effective rescue therapy. Serum lactate has been correlated with the risk of mortality in patients with sepsis. However, the association between serum lactate level and the prognosis of type 1 CRS patients requiring RRT is unknown. We prospectively enrolled 500 type 1 CRS patients who received RRT from August 2011 to January 2018. The 90-day mortality rate was 52.8% and the incidence rate of RRT independence was 34.8%. Lower pre-dialysis lactate was correlated with a higher rate of dialysis withdrawal and lower rate of mortality. A generalized additive model showed that 4.2 mmol/L was an adequate cut-off value of lactate to predict renal recovery. Taking mortality as a competing risk, Cox proportional hazards analysis indicated that a low lactate level (≦ 4.2 mmol/L) was an independent prognostic factor for the possibility of dialysis withdrawal, as also shown in external validation. The interaction of quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score and lactate was associated with dialysis dependence in a disease severity-dependent manner. In summary, we identified that pre-dialysis serum lactate level could predict the possibility of dialysis withdrawal in type 1 CRS patients.
Dietary and Plasmodium challenge effects on cuticular hydrocarbons in Anopheles albimanus
Authors: Claudio-Piedras Fabiola , Recio-Tótoro Benito , Cime-Castillo Jorge , Condé Renaud , Maffei Massimo , Lanz-Mendoza Humberto
Published: February 2021

The cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profile reflects the insect’s physiological states. These states include age, sex, reproductive stage, or gravidity. Environmental factors such as diet, relative humidity, or exposure to insecticides also affect the CHCs composition in mosquitoes. In this work, the CHC profile was analyzed in two Anopheles albimanus phenotypes with different degrees of susceptibility to Plasmodium: the susceptible-White and resistant-Brown phenotypes. The effects of the CHC profile were considered under a carbon-rich diet (sugar), a protein-rich diet (blood), and an infectious challenge (blood containing Plasmodium berghei ookinetes). The CHCs were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with either mass spectrometry or flame ionization detection, identifying 19 CHCs with chain lengths ranging from 20 to 37 carbons. The qualitative and quantitative changes observed in the CHCs composition were dependent on the diet and parasite challenge, and independent of the phenotype. The exception was the challenged condition, where significant differences between the phenotypes were observed in Z-12 pentacosane, hexacosane 9-octyl, methyl-nonacosane, and methyl-hentriacontane. Since the lipid metabolism in Anopheles mosquitoes has been shown crucial for Plasmodium development, the changes in the CHC profiles associated with infection could have multiple effects on mosquito fitness and impacts on disease transmission.
Can Web Based Learning be the New Normal for the National Radiology Didactics in Singapore during COVID-19?
Authors: Seng Michael Che Hao , Sia Soon Yew , Wong Daniel , Liew Charlene Jin Yee , Sim Jocelyn Yan Fen , Lim Winston Eng Hoe
Published: February 2021

Objectives: The objective of this study aims to quantify and share the experiences of the residents and tutors during the transition to web-based learning during this time of COVID-19. Normally radiology residents would visit the different public hospitals to attend the different didactic teachings. However this is no longer possible and web-based learning has been implemented instead. Methods: Online anonymized surveys were given to the residents and tutors to gather feedback regarding the web-based learning exercise to help quantify the effectiveness of the sessions and to gather suggestions for improvement going forward. Results: The feedback from the web-based learning experience was generally positive from both the tutors and the residents and quality of learning was not compromised. Issues faced gradually improved as participants get more accustomed to web-based learning. The quality of learning also increased as tutors started to get more familiar and integrated their teaching material with the tools available in the software. Conclusions: As such, it is strongly recommended that the use of web-based learning should be considered the new norm going forward, even as the end of social distancing measures locally and worldwide remain uncertain.
Oral Manifestations of Patients with Systemic Sclerosis: A Meta-analysis for Case-controlled Studies.
Authors: Zhang Suhan , Zhu Junfei , Zhu Yanshan , Li Siying , Zhang Xiaochao , Wu Ruifang , Su Yuwen
Published: February 2021

Background：Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem rheumatic disease. Orofacial manifestations are commonly in SSc but maybe usually ignored and overshadowed by other systemic complications. Multiple comparative studies have been conducted to investigate the possible links between SSc and oral manifestations. The present study aimed to investigate the oral health status in patients with SSc. Methods：Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched up to July 2020. Following outcomes were evaluated: Probing depth (PD), Attachment loss (AL), Bleeding on probing (BOP), Number or percentage of Sites with PD ≥ 4 mm, Prevalence of periodontitis, Number of teeth, Decayed Teeth, Missing teeth, Filled teeth, DMFT index, and the interincisal distance. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) were applied for quality assessment. The statistical analysis was processed using the software STATA.Results: 11 eligible studies were included. The maximum interincisor distance was significantly restricted in SSc patients (SMD -1.061; 95%CI [-1.546, -0.576]; Z=4.29, P=0.000).The prevalence of Periodontitis (OR 7.007; 95%CI [3.529,13.915]; Z=5.56, P=0.000) , PD (SMD 3.101; 95%CI [1.374, 4.829]; Z=3.52, P=0.000), AL(SMD 2.584; 95%CI [0.321, 4.846]; Z=2.24, P=0.025) , sites with PD≥4mm (SMD 2.071 ; 95%CI [0.267, 3.875]; Z=2.25, P=0.024) and the number of decayed teeth (SMD, 0.186; 95%CI [0.007, 0.365]; Z= 2.04, P=0.041) were increased significantly in SSc population in comparison with the controls. Conclusions: SSc patients have limited mouth opening, higher periodontitis prevalence, and worse periodontal status, as well as an increased number of decayed teeth. Routinely oral hygiene instruction and initial periodontal treatment is recommended for SSc patients.
Sevoflurane and isoflurane inhibit KCl-induced, Rho kinase-mediated, and PI3K-participated vasoconstriction in aged diabetic rat aortas
Authors: Yang Shaozhong , Liu Yu , Huang Shanshan , Jin Feihong , Qi Feng
Published: February 2021

Background The mechanism of volatile anesthetics on vascular smooth muscle (VSM) contraction in diabetes mellitus (DM) remains unclear. The current study was designed to determine the effects of sevoflurane (SEVO) and isoflurane (ISO) on KCl induction. PI3K and Rho kinase participate in vasoconstriction in aged type 2 DM (T2DM) rats.Methods KCl-induced (60 mM) contractions were examined in endothelium -denuded aortic rings from aged T2DM Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats (65–70 weeks old), control age-matched nondiabetic Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats and young Wistar rats (6–8 weeks old). The effects of SEVO and ISO on KCl-induced vasoconstriction, as well as those of LY294002 and Y27632, were measured in aortic rings from the three groups using an isometric force transducer.Results KCl induced rapid and continuous contraction of aortic smooth muscle in the three groups, and the contraction was more obvious in OLETF rats.SEVO and ISO inhibited KCl-induced vasoconstriction in a concentration-dependent manner and were suppressed by LY294002 (10 mM) and Y27632 (1 µM). SEVO had a stronger inhibitory effect on the aortas of young Wistar rats than ISO, especially at 2 MAC and 3 MAC (P<0.05). In aged rats, the inhibitory effect of ISO was stronger than that of SEVO, especially OLETF rats. There was no significant difference in the effects of different concentrations of ISO on arterial contraction among the three groups. However, the effects of 1 MAC SEVO on Wistar rats and 3 MAC SEVO on OLETF rats were noticeably and significantly different (P<0.05).Compared with the control condition, LY294002 and Y27632 had the most noticeable effect on the KCl-induced contraction of aortic rings in OLETF rats (P<0.01).Conclusion KCl significantly increased the rapid and sustained contraction of aortic rings in aged patients with T2DM. SEVO and ISO reduced vascular tension in the three groups to different degrees. ISO had a smaller inhibitory effect on young rats, and SEVO had a smaller inhibitory effect on aged rats. The mechanism of SEVO and ISO in vascular tension in T2DM is due to changes in PI3K and/or Rho kinase activity.
Efficacy and Safety of Remimazolam Besylate Versus Propofol during Hysteroscopy: Single‐centre Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqiang , Li Shuang , Liu Jing
Published: February 2021

Background: Remimazolam besylate is a new type of benzodiazepine that has the characteristics of quick effects, short maintenance and recovery times, and no accumulation. Compound opioids can have a sedative effect in some endoscopic examinations. This trial was conducted to confirm the efficacy and safety of remimazolam besylate versus propofol during hysteroscopy.Methods: Patients undergoing hysteroscopy were randomly assigned to either the remimazolam (Group R, n=41) or the propofol group (Group P, n=41). Group R was administered an induction dosage of 0.2 mg/kg/min and a maintenance dosage of 1 mg/kg/h. Group P was started at 1.5-2.0 mg/kg propofol for up to 60-100 s and then maintained at 3.0-6.0 mg/kg/h. In both groups, remifentanil was infused using a target-controlled infusion system with a target concentration of 1.5 ng/ml and titrated during the procedure. The incidence rates of body movement and various adverse events in both groups were compared.Results: Eighty-two patients were included in this study. The incidence of adverse events in Group R (8.5%) was significantly lower than that in Group P (36.6%) (P < 0.05). Injection pain, postoperative dizziness and low SpO2 were the most common adverse events (P < 0.05). Compared with Group P patients, Group R patients recovered faster, had a shorter residence time in the PACU, and exhibited a higher quality of recovery (P < 0.05).Conclusion: Remimazolam besylate can provide safe and effective sedation for hysteroscopy. The depth of sedation is sufficient and effective, and the quality of recovery is high. Moreover, adverse events such as haemodynamic fluctuation, excessive sedation depth, low SpO2 and injection pain caused by propofol are largely avoided.Trial registrationThis study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Mengcheng County No.1 People's Hospital (2020MYL20003) and registered at http:// www.chictr.org.cn (15/09/2020, ChiCTR-2000038252). The study protocol is performed in the relevant guidelines.
Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis urogenital infections in patients with infertility. Results from a large cross-sectional study.
Authors: Paira Daniela Andrea , Molina Guillermo , Tissera Andrea Daniela , Olivera Carolina , Molina Rosa Isabel , Motrich Ruben Dario
Published: February 2021

Female and male infertility have been associated to Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis urogenital infections. However, evidence from large studies assessing their prevalence and putative associations in patients with infertility is still needed. The study design was a cross-sectional study including 1554 female and 3610 male patients with infertility in Cordoba, Argentina. In women, the prevalence of C. trachomatis, U. urealyticum and M. hominis urogenital infection was 4.3%, 31.1% and 12.1% whereas in men it was 5.8%, 19.2% and 5.3%, respectively. C. trachomatis infection was significantly more prevalent in men whereas U. urealyticum and M. hominis infections were more prevalent in women. Besides, C. trachomatis and U. urealyticum infections were significantly higher patients younger than 25 years. Moreover, U. urealyticum and M. hominis infections were associated to each other in either infertile women or men. Our data revealed that C. trachomatis, U. urealyticum and M. hominis are prevalent uropathogens in infertile patients. Of clinical importance, C. trachomatis and U. urealyticum infections were more prevalent in young patients whereas U. urealyticum and M. hominis are reciprocal risk factors of their co-infection. These results highlight the importance of including the screening of urogenital infections in the diagnostic workup of infertility.
Topical Betaxolol Hydrochloride for the Treatment of Superficial Infantile Hemangiomas: A Single Institutional Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Hong , Li Chen-Xi , Zhou Yu-Chuan , Gong Zhong-Cheng , Ling Bin
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives:

Beta-blockers have gradually become an attractive option for the treatment of infantile hemangiomas (IHs). Topical application of beta-blockers is more preferred over oral administration since their potential systemic adverse effects. Besides timolol, as the mainstream medication for superficial IHs, however other types of beta-blockers are rarely reported. To develop a brand-new effective approach, in this present study, betaxolol as a topical treatment for IHs was specifically observed and recorded.
Methods

83 infants with superficial hemangiomas admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from January 2018 to May 2019 were all treated by topical application of betaxolol. The changeable indicators such as color, size, tension and thickness were monthly recorded and evaluated according to visual analog scales. Multi-factor analysis of variance (MANOVA) with repeated measurements and Kruskal-Wallis H nonparametric test were performed to compare the clinical effectiveness across different groups.
Results

After six months of treatment, 33.78% (25/74) got excellent results, 55.41% (41/74) had good response, 8.11% (6/74) had moderate response and 2.70% (2/74) had poor response respectively. During the whole procedure, neither local discomforts nor systemic complications had been found. There was no significant difference in gender and location of occurrence among groups (P > 0.05), while the effect of topical application of betaxolol was optimum in the children aged 0–3 months (P = 0.002). None of three age groups had statistically significant discrepancy of heart rate and blood pressure after accepting treatment (one month, P = 0.618; four months, P = 0.138; six months, P = 0.757).
Conclusions

Our study showed that topical administration of betaxolol was effective and well-tolerated for superficial IHs, particularly in the early proliferative stage. However, its safety and efficacy need continuous studies to be confirmed.
Determinants of Non-Disclosure to Sexual Partner among Human immune virus Infected Adults on Anti-Retroviral Therapy Follow-Up Care at North Shewa Zone public Hospitals in Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2020.
Authors: Alemineh Tiliksew Liknaw , Shifraew Mengistu Benayew , Shibabaw Muluken Ayenew , Kebede Andualem Gezahegn , Birlie Mihretie Gedfew , Mulu Atsedemariam Andualem , Kidani Bekalu Bewketu
Published: February 2021

BackgroundHIV positive status non-disclosure to sexual partner remains challenging for the prevention and control of Human Immune Virus infection as it results in poor antiretroviral treatment adherence, high risk of transmission and limits women’s ability in the prevention of mother to child transmission. ObjectiveThe study tried to identify determinants of non-disclosure to sexual partner/s among Human immune virus infected Adult on Anti-Retroviral Therapy Follow-Up Care at North Shewa zone public Hospitals in Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2020. MethodsA hospital based unmake case control study was conducted from December 1 to February 30/2020 among 378 (94 cases and 284 controls) Human immune virus infected adults on Anti-Retroviral Therapy Follow-Up Care at North Shewa zone public Hospitals in Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2020. Epi data version 3.1 for data entry and SPSS version 25 for analysis were used. To find factors significantly associated with non-disclosure to sexual partner/s, Bivariable and Multivariable logistic regression analysis were done. ResultOf a total of 378 sampled study respondents, 369 were interviewed (92 cases and 277 controls) giving response rate of 97.5%. Among the study participants 39.3% (36 cases and 109 controls) were in the age group of 31-40 years and more than half of the respondents, 53.4% (61 cases and 136 controls) were females. Regarding educational and marital status, 39.3% (100 controls and 45 cases) were unable to read and write and 69.6% (211 controls and 46 cases) were married. Variables that showed significant association with non-disclosure to sexual partner were male sex (AOR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.13-0.47), ART duration <36 months (AOR:2.13, 95% CI: 1.14-4.01), Being on WHO clinical staging one (AOR: 3.00, 95% CI: 1.26-7.12), Having more than one lifetime sexual partner (AOR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.22-0.95) and not seeing person/s publically disclosed HIV status (AOR: 3.12, 95% CI: 1.47-6.65). Conclusions﻿This study endorsed that promoting public HIV disclosure and having one sexual partner helps disclosure to sexual partner/s. Deep and continuous HIV disclosure counseling service is needed for Female, for those being in WHO clinical staging one and ART duration <36 months.
MicroRNA 33 Potentially Participates in the Development of Goose Fatty Liver via Its Target Gene CROT
Authors: Lin Xiao , Xing Ya , Zhang Yihui , Dong Biao , zhao Minmeng , Wang Jian , Geng Tuoyu , Gong Daoqing , Zheng Yun , Liu Long
Published: February 2021

Background

Previous studies indicate that microRNA33 (miR-33) and its target gene, CROT, are implicated in hepatic lipid metabolism, but it is unclear whether miR-33 participates in the development of goose fatty liver via CROT.
Methods

The expression of miR-33 in goose fatty liver, muscle and fat tissues, as well as the mRNA and protein expression of CROT in goose fatty liver was determined by q-PCR or Western-blot. The targeting regulatory relationship between miR-33 and CROT in goose liver cells was validated by miR-33 overexpression and interference assays. The effects of miR-33 mimic and CROT overexpression on lipid deposition and the expression of downstream genes were determined in goose primary hepatocytes. The treatment of high concentrations of glucose and insulin was performed to determine their regulation on the expression of miR-33 and CROT in goose primary hepatocytes.
Results

Here, data showed that miR-33 expression was significantly increased in the liver, muscle and fat tissues of overfed geese. Consistently, miR-33 mimic promoted lipid deposition in goose primary hepatocytes. Moreover, the regulatory targeting relationship between miR-33 and CROT was validated in goose primary hepatocytes. Consistently, the mRNA and protein expression of CROT were significantly reduced in goose fatty liver. Interestingly, CROT overexpression could induce the expression of fatty acid oxidation associated genes including CRAT, PEX5, EHHADH, CAT and ACOT8 in goose primary hepatocytes, but only the expression of PEX5 was significantly inhibited in goose fatty liver. However, it seemed conflicting that CROT overexpression increased lipid deposition and reduced lipid peroxidation in goose primary hepatocytes. Additionally, high glucose inhibited miR-33 expression and induced CROT expression in goose primary hepatocytes.
Conclusions

These findings suggest that miR-33 potentially participates in the development of goose fatty liver via CROT, and that miR-33/CROT may partially mediate the effect of glucose in goose liver cells.
Graphitic-Phase C3N4 Nanosheets Combined with MnO2 Nanosheets for Sensitive Fluorescence Quenching Detection of Parathion-Methyl
Authors: Liu Bicheng , Wu Sihao , Peng Zoujun , Rui Jiahan , Qiu Ping
Published: February 2021

In this study, we have developed a sensitive approach to measure organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) using graphitic-phase C3N4 nanosheets (g-C3N4) combined with a nanomaterial-based quencher MnO2 nanosheets (MnO2 NS). Because MnO2 NS could quench the fluorescence of g-C3N4 via the inner-filter effect (IFE), the enzymatic hydrolysate (thiocholine, TCh) can efficiently trigger the decomposition of MnO2 nanosheets in the presence of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and acetylthiocholine, resulting in the fluorescence recovery of g-C3N4. OPs, as inhibitors for AChE activity, can prevent the generation of TCh and decomposition of MnO2 nanosheets, accompanied by fluorescence quenching again. So the AChE-ATCh-MnO2-g-C3N4 system can be utilized to detect OPs quantitatively based on the g-C3N4 fluorescence. Under the optimum conditions, the linear range for the determination of parathion-methyl (PM) and 2,2-dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate (DDVP) were found in the range of 0.1-2.1 ng/mL with a limit of detection of 0.069 ng/mL, and 0.5-16 ng/mL with a limit of detection of 0.069 ng/mL, respectively. Finally, this method was exploited for the monitoring of PM in real samples. The advantages of the assay are user-friendly, easy-to-ease, cost-effective compared to sophisticated analytical instruments.
Evaluation of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Parkinson's Disease Patients With Constipation
Authors: Kuai Xiao-yi , Yao Xiao-han , Xu Li-Juan , Zhou Yu-qing , Zhang Li-ping , Liu Yi , Pei Shao-fang , Zhou Chun-li
Published: February 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and 70–80% of PD patients suffer from gastrointestinal dysfunction such as constipation. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for treating PD related to gastrointestinal dysfunction. We conducted a prospective, single- study. Eleven patients with PD received FMT. Fecal samples were collected before and after FMT and subjected to 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) gene sequencing. Hoehn-Yahr (H-Y) grade, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score, and the Non-Motion Symptom Questionnaire (NMSS) were used to assess improvements in motor and non-motor symptoms. PAC-QOL score and Wexner constipation score were used to assess the patient's constipation symptoms. All patients were tested by the small intestine breath hydrogen test, performed before and after FMT. Community richness (chao) and microbial structure in before-FMT PD patients were significantly different from the after-FMT. We observed an increased abundance of Blautia and Prevotella in PD patients after FMT, while the abundance of Bacteroidetes decreased dramatically. After FMT, the H-Y grade, UPDRS, and NMSS of PD patients decreased significantly. Through the lactulose H2 breath test, the intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) in PD patients returned to normal. The PAC-QOL score and Wexner constipation score in after-FMT patients decreased significantly. Our study profiles specific characteristics and microbial dysbiosis in the gut of PD patients. FMT might be a therapeutic potential for reconstructing the gut microbiota of PD patients and improving their motor and non-motor symptoms.
Effect of Different Types of Polymers as Well as Different Preparation Techniques on the In-Vitro Release of Dyphylline Controlled Release Matrix Tablets
Authors: Yassin Heba A. , Sharaf Mohamed A. , El-Ghamry Hanna A. , Abdelaziz Abdelaziz E.
Published: February 2021

Dyphylline, xanthine derivatives, is used to manage asthma, cardiac dyspnea, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. This work aimed to develop controlled release matrix tablets of Dyphylline using different types of polymers, and different preparation techniques such as direct compression, wet granulation, and hot melt methods. The prepared matrix tablets were evaluated by Infrared spectral analysis, differential thermal analysis, evaluation which included hardness, friability, content uniformity, and the in-vitro drug release. Kinetic analysis of the release profiles was investigated using different kinetic orders. All Dyphylline formulae obey Higuchi’s diffusion model. The diffusion is the mechanism of Dyphylline release from its controlled matrix tablets. IR and DSC revealed no incompatibility between Dyphylline and the polymers used in the prepared formulae. The obtained results revealed that the wet granulation technique using water as the granulating liquid is the best method for the formulation of Dyphylline hydrophilic matrix tablets compared with the other techniques. The high content of polymers led to the high value of T1/2, and a decrease in Dyphylline's extent due to the improvement of the retention of drug release. A synergistic effect was obtained using PVP-K-25 in the hydrophilic matrix tablets, which led to the retention of the drug release.
Knowledge of Nurses About the End of Life Care Towards Terminal Illnesses: a Cross-sectional Design
Authors: Subih Maha , AL-amer Rasmieh , Alomari Domam , Randall Duncan C , Darwish Rima , Mosleh Sultan
Published: February 2021

The preparedness of nurses in relation to providing palliative care is not always adequate, indeed, it is sometimes unsatisfactory; this may be caused by lack of knowledge and limited experience in end-of-life care. The purposes of the study were to assess the levels of registered nurses' knowledge about end of life care (EOLC), examine the relationships between EOLC knowledge and demographic variables, and explore predictors of EOLC knowledge. A cross-sectional design survey was conducted on Jordanian registered nurses (N =220). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression.The results showed that End-of-Life Professional Caregiver Survey (EPCS) mean total score was moderate to high (72.1 (SD ±13.6), Range 0-112). For EPCS subscales: Patient and family-centered communication, cultural and ethical values were moderately high, while effective care delivery subscale was low. Predictors were attending training in palliative care (p = 0.02), and working in the intensive care unit (p = 0.04). Thus, nurses need palliative care education, more attention is required in palliative care education on clinical skills, as well as weakness of effective care delivery. Also build palliative education into the core nursing curriculum.
Aging exacerbates the brain inflammatory micro-environment contributing to α-synuclein pathology and functional deficits a mouse model of DLB/PD
Authors: Iba Michiyo , McDevitt Ross , Kim Changyoun , Roy Roshni , Sarantopoulou Dimitra , Tommer Ella , Kwon Somin , Siegars Byron , Sallin Michelle , Sen Jyoti , Sen Ranjan , Masliah Eliezer
Published: February 2021

ɑ-synuclein (ɑ-syn) progressively accumulates in age related neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Although ɑ-syn spreading has been extensively investigated, the role of aging in the manifestation of disease remains unclear. Thus, we explored the role of aging in the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies in a mouse model of DLB/PD initiated by intrastiatal injection of ɑ-syn preformed fibrils (pff). We found that aged mice showed more extensive accumulation of ɑ-syn and behavioral deficits that was associated with greater infiltration of T cells and microgliosis. Microglial inflammatory gene expression induced by ɑ-syn-pff injection in young mice had hallmarks of aged microglia, indicating that enhanced age-associated pathologies may result from inflammatory synergy between aging and the effects of ɑ-syn aggregation. We propose that aging related inflammation influences outcomes of pathological spreading of ɑ-syn and suggests that targeting immune responses might be important in developing treatments for DLB/PD.
Melatonin Suppresses Iron-Induced Apoptosis by Activating the Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway in Osteoblast
Authors: Ma Hongdong , Li Zhiqing , Chu Jiao , Yin Dali
Published: February 2021

Objective To investigate the effect of melatonin on the apoptosis of hFOB1.19 cells induced by excess iron. Methods The hFOB1.19 cells were treated with ferric ammonium citrate (300 μmol/L) and melatonin (100 μmol/L) for 24 h. The apoptosis rate and the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were analyzed using flow cytometry. Expression of proteins associated with apoptosis, such as Bax and caspase-3, and those associated with the Nrf-2 signaling pathway such as Nrf2 and HO-1 were analyzed using western blotting. Results The level of ROS and the apoptosis rate increased after intervention with excess iron. The levels of Bax in the mitochondria and cleaved caspase-3 in the cytosol increased. However, after pretreatment with melatonin, the level of ROS, apoptosis rate, and expression of apoptosis-associated proteins decreased, and the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 increased. Conclusion Melatonin inhibits the level of oxidation in osteoblasts via the Nrf2/HO-1 signal pathway, resulting in the reduction of apoptosis induced by excess iron.