bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Current Third Stage Management to Expedient Squatting Third Stage Management
Authors: Cohain Judy Slome , Buxbaum Rina
Published: January 2021

Background: Active management of the delivery of the placenta results in 5% postpartum hemorrhage, 1% blood transfusions and an average blood loss of 500 cc. Shorter third stages are associated with decreased hemorrhage rates. The third stage can be shortened by instructing the birthing woman to squat and push out the placenta at 3 minutes postpartum. The objective of this study was to compare blood loss and PPH rates using Judy's 3,4,5 minute third stage expedient squatting protocol to variations of active and expectant third stage management among similar populations.Methodology: A retrospective cohort study was carried out comparing 1,098 planned homebirths attended in Israel, in which Judy’s 3,4,5 expedient squatting third stage technique was practiced, to 2,899 planned homebirths attended by midwives in British Columbia, Canada, where currently accepted third stage management was used. The inclusion criteria for both groups were: Singleton fetus in cephalic presentation; gestational age 37+0 to 41+6 weeks; spontaneous onset of labor; history of up to one previous cesarean; absence of significant pre-existing disease and absence of significant disease arising during pregnancy. The main outcomes were postpartum hemorrhage and manual removal of the placenta. Results: Using identical inclusion criteria and similar management, variations of active and expectant management resulted in 4% PPH over 1000 cc and 1.0% manual removal. Expedient squatting resulted in 2/1098 cases of PPH>500 cc, zero cases of PPH over 1000 cc and 0.7% manual removal. Conclusion: Judy’s 3,4,5 minute third stage management minimizes postpartum bleeding compared to other third stage protocols, reproducing postpartum hemorrhage rates indigenous to primates.
Trimester-Specific Reference Ranges for Thyroid Hormones of Pregnant Females at Tertiary Care Hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Mumtaz Asim , Sadiq Fauzia , Zaki Saima , Batool Hijab , Ibrahim Muhammad , Khurram Muhammad , Awan Usman Ayub , Saeed kiran , Afzal Muhammad Sohail
Published: January 2021

Background: The significance of investigation for diagnosing and managing thyroid dysfunction in pregnant females has been extensively documented in the medical literature. This study aimed to determine trimester-specific reference ranges for thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH), Free T3 (FT3), and free T4 (FT4) in apparently healthy pregnant women attending tertiary care hospitals in Lahore. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at two tertiary care Hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. In this multi-centric study, initially, 500 pregnant females were enrolled from September 2019 to December 2019 who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. For measurement of serum freeT3, free T4, TSH, anti-TPO, and Thyroglobulin antibodies, 5 ml of the blood sample was drawn, under aseptic conditions, from each subject using Maglumi 800 chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) system. Results: Out of 500 subjects, 23 subjects with positive anti-TPO, 19 subjects with anti-TG antibodies, and 12 subjects due to less volume of serum yielded from whole blood (serum less than 3 ml) were excluded from the analysis. Ten samples were hemolyzed and not included in the analysis. A total of 436 samples were examined for analysis. Of the remaining 436 subjects, 133 (30.5%) were from 1st Trimester, 153 (35.1%) from 2nd Trimester, and 150 (34.4%) from 3rd Trimester. As the data were non-normal, the 2.5th, 50th and 97.5th percentiles were calculated to express each group's results. Trimester specific range of TSH 0.168-4.294, 0.258-4.584 and 0.341-4.625, FT3 1.857-4.408, 1.958-4.621 and 2.025-4.821 pg/mL and FT4 8.815-18.006, 8.306-17.341 and 7.402-17.292 pg/mL. Conclusion: In this study, we established a trimester-specific reference range for our local population's thyroid function test. The results of this study have complemented the results of previous studies.
Development of novel immunotherapy based on nanoparticle co-delivering PLK1 and PD-L1 inhibitors for lung cancer treatment
Authors: Reda Moataz , Ngamcherdtrakul Worapol , Siriwon Natnaree , Bejan Daniel , Reda Sherif , Wang Ruijie , Nelson Molly , Zaidan Husam , Hoang Ngoc , Bindal Akash , Mills Gordon , Gray Joe , Yantasee Wassana
Published: January 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD-L1 and PD-1 have improved survival in a subset of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, only a minority of NSCLC patients respond to ICIs, highlighting the need for superior immunotherapy. Herein, we developed a nanoparticle-based immunotherapy termed ARAC (Antigen Release Agent and Checkpoint Inhibitor) to enhance the efficacy of PD-L1 inhibitor. ARAC is nanoparticle co-delivering PLK1 inhibitor, volasertib, and PD-L1 antibody. PLK1 is a key mitotic kinase that is overexpressed in various cancers including NSCLC and drives cancer growth. Inhibition of PLK1 selectively kills cancer cells and upregulates PD-L1 expression in surviving cancer cells thereby providing opportunity for ARAC targeted delivery in a positive feedback manner. ARAC reduced effective doses of volasertib and PD-L1 antibody by 5-fold in a metastatic lung tumor model and the effect was mainly mediated by CD8 + T cells. We also observed abscopal effect of ARAC in bilateral NSCLC tumor model and achieved complete cures in some mice when incorporating immune-stimulant CpG onto ARAC. Further, ARAC was well-tolerated in non-human primates. This study highlights a rationale combination strategy to augment existing therapies by utilizing our nanoparticle platform that can load multiple cargo types at once.
Development of An Implementation Process Model: A Delphi Study
Authors: Parker Gillian , Kastner Monika , Born Karen , Berta Whitney
Published: January 2021

Background: There is general scarcity of research on key elements of implementation processes and the factors which impact implementation success. Implementation of healthcare interventions is a complex process. Tools to support implementation can facilitate this process and improve effectiveness of the interventions and clinical outcomes. Understanding the impact of implementation support tools is a critical aspect of this process. The objective of this study was to solicit knowledge and consensus from relevant implementation science and knowledge translation healthcare experts in order to refine and validate a process model of key elements in the implementation process.Methods: A two round consensus-based modiﬁed Delphi study involving international experts in knowledge translation and implementation (researchers, scientists, professors, decision-makers) was conducted. Participants rated and commented on all aspects of the process model, including the organization, content, scope, and structure. Delphi questions rated at 75% agreement or lower were reviewed and revised. Qualitative comments supported the restructuring and refinement. A second-round survey followed the same process as Round 1. Results: Fifty-four experts participated in Round 1, and 32 experts participated in Round 2. Twelve percent (n=6) of the Round 1 questions did not reach consensus. Key themes for revision and refinement were: stakeholder engagement throughout the process, iterative nature of the implementation process; importance of context; and importance of using guiding theories or frameworks. The process model was revised and refined based on the quantitative and qualitative data and reassessed by the experts in Round 2. Consensus was achieved on all items in Round 2 and the Delphi concluded. Additional feedback was obtained regarding terminology, target users and definition of the implementation process.Conclusions: High levels of agreement were attained for all sub-domains, elements, and sub-elements of the Implementation Process Model. This validated model will be used to develop an Implementation Support Tool to be used by healthcare providers to facilitate effective implementation and improved clinical outcomes.
Photodynamic Diagnostic Ureteroscopy Using The VISERA ELITE® Video System For Diagnosis of Upper-Urinary Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: A Prospective Cohort Pilot Study
Authors: Wada Koichiro , Araki Motoo , Tanimoto Ryuta , Sadahira Takuya , Watari Shogo , Maruyama Yuki , Mitsui Yosuke , Nakajima Hirochika , Acosta Herik , Katayama Satoshi , Iwata Takehiro , Nishimura Shingo , Takamoto Atsushi , Sako Tomoko , Edamura Kohei , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Watanabe Masami , Watanabe Toyohiko , Nasu Yasutomo
Published: January 2021

Background: The advantages of photodynamic diagnostic technology using 5-aminolevulinic (ALA-PDD) have been established. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to evaluate the usefulness of ALA-PDD to diagnose upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UT-UC) using the Olympus VISERA ELITE® video system.Methods: We carried out a prospective, interventional, non-randomized, non-contrast and open label cohort pilot study that involved patients who underwent ureterorenoscopy (URS) to detect UT-UC. 5-ALA HCl was orally administered before URS. The observational results and pathological diagnosis with ALA-PDD and traditional white light methods were compared, and the proportion of positive subjects and specimens were calculated.Results: A total of 20 patients were enrolled and one patient who had multiple bladder tumors did not undergo URS. Fifteen of 19 patients were pathologically diagnosed with UT-UC and of these 11 (73.3%) were ALA-PDD positive. Fourteen of 19 patients were ALA-PDD positive and of these 11 were pathologically diagnosed with UC. For the 92 biopsy specimens that were malignant or benign, the sensitivity for both traditional white light observation and ALA-PDD was the same at 62.5%, whereas the specificities were 73.1% and 67.3%, respectively. Of the 38 specimens that were randomly biopsied without any abnormality under examination by both white light and ALA-PDD, 11 specimens (28.9%) from 5 patients were diagnosed with high grade UC. In contrast, four specimens from 4 patients, which were negative in traditional white light observation but positive in ALA-PDD, were diagnosed with carcinoma in situ (CIS).Conclusions: Our results suggest that ALA-PDD using VISERA ELITE® is not sufficiently applicable for UT-UC. Nevertheless, it might be better particularly for CIS than white light and superior results would be obtained using VISERA ELITE® II video system.Trial registration: The present clinical study was approved by the Okayama University Institutional Review Board prior to study initiation (Application no.: RIN 1803-002) and was registered with the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR), Japan (Accession no.: UMIN000031205).
Development and Validation of a Nomogram for Predicting Severity in Patients With Hemorrhagic Fever With Renal Syndrome: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Yang Zheng , Hu Qinming , Feng Zhipeng , Sun Yi
Published: January 2021

Background: Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a zoonotic disease caused by hantavirus infection. China is one of the most endemic countries of HFRS in the world. Patients with severe HFRS may develop multiple organ failure or even death, which makes HFRS a serious public health problem in China. Therefore, we constructed and verified a reliable nomogram to predict the severity in patients with HFRS and provide guidance for medical practice.Methods: In this retrospective study, we included a total of 155 consecutive patients with HFRS who were diagnosed from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019, of which 109 patients served as a training cohort and 46 patients as an independent verification cohort. 54 laboratory and clinical indicators were applied to assess the severity of HFRS patients. In the training set, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was used to screen the characteristic variables of the risk model. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to construct a nomogram containing the characteristic variables selected in the LASSO regression model. The nomogram's performance was evaluated by the discrimination, calibration, and clinical applicability in the training set and validation set.Results: The prediction nomogram included six predictors such as neutrophils, hemoglobin (Hb), platelets, creatinine, calcium (Ca) and dyspnea, which were screened by LASSO regression. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of the nomogram in the training and validation cohorts was 0.969 (95%CI:0.935-1.000) and 0.934(95%CI: 0.847-1.000), respectively, indicating that the model has good discrimination. The calibration curve exhibited that the nomogram was in good agreement between the prediction and the actual observation. Decision curve analysis and clinical impact curve indicated that the predictive nomogram had clinical utility.Conclusion: In this study, we established a simple and feasible model to predict severity in patients with HFRS, with which HFRS will be better identified and patients can be treated early.
Whether Sutures Reduce the Graft Laceration Caused by Interference Screw in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction a Biomechanical Study in Vitro
Authors: Teng Yuanjun , Da Lijun , Zhang Xiaohui , Wang Hong , Han Hua , Wu Meng , Zhang Shifeng , Xia Yayi
Published: January 2021

Background: Interference screw is commonly used for graft fixation in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction However, previous studies h a d reported that the insertion of interference screws significantly caused graft laceration . The purpose of this study was to determine whether sutures reduce d the graft laceration from the insertion of interference screws in ACL reconstruction. Methods: Porcine tibias and bovine extensor tendons were used for establishing a knee model of ACL reconstruction in vitro . The ends of grafts were sutured using three different sutures, including the bioabsorbable, Ethibond and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) sutures Poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) interference screw s w ere used fortibial fixation Biomechanical tests were performed to investigate the protective effects of different sutures on grafts Results : All prepared tendons and bone specimens showed similar characteristics (length, weight, and pre tension of the tendons, tibial bone mineral density) among all groups ( P 0.05). The biomechanical test s demonstrated that PEEK interference screw s significantly caused the graft laceration P 0.05). However, all sutures (the bioabsorbable, Ethibond and UHMWPE sutures) did not reduce the graft laceration in ACL reconstruction P 0.05). Conclusions : PEEK interference screw s significantly weakened the biomechanical properties of grafts during tibial fixation in ACL reconstruction. Absorbable Ethibond and UHMWPE sutures did not provide protective effects on grafts during ACL reconstruction.
Folliculin Haploinsufficiency Causes Cellular Dysfunction of Pleural Mesothelial Cells
Authors: Okamoto Shouichi , Ebana Hiroki , Kurihara Masatoshi , Mitani Keiko , Kobayashi Etsuko , Hayashi Takuo , Sekimoto Yasuhito , Nishino Koichi , Otsuji Mizuto , Kumasaka Toshio , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Seyama Kuniaki
Published: January 2021

Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome (BHDS), an autosomal dominant inheritance disease caused by folliculin (FLCN) mutations, is associated with lung cysts and spontaneous pneumothorax. The possibility of FLCN haploinsufficiency in pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs) contributing to development of pneumothorax has not yet been clarified. Electron microscopy revealed exposed intercellular boundaries between PMCs on visceral pleura and decreased electron density around the adherens junctions in BHDS. To characterize cellular function of PMCs in BHDS patients (BHDS-PMCs), during surgery for pneumothorax, we established the flow cytometry-based methods of isolating high-purity PMCs from pleural lavage fluid. BHDS-PMCs showed impaired cell attachment and a significant decrease in proliferation and migration, but a significant increase in apoptosis compared with PMCs from primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) patients (PSP-PMCs). Microarray analysis using isolated PMCs revealed a significant alteration in the expression of genes belonging to Gene Ontology terms “cell-cell adhesion junction” and “cell adhesion molecule binding”. Gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated that CDH1, encoding E-cadherin, was identified in the down-regulated leading edge of a plot in BHDS-PMCs. AMPK and LKB1 activation were significantly impaired in BHDS-PMCs compared with PSP-PMCs. Our findings indicate that FLCN haploinsufficiency may affect the E-cadherin-LKB1-AMPK axis and lead to abnormal cellular function in BHDS-PMCs.
Three Logistic Predictive Models for the Prediction of Mortality and Major Pulmonary Complications after Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Bignami Elena , Guarnieri Marcello , Giambuzzi Ilaria , Trumello Cinzia , Saglietti Francesco , Gianni Stefano , Belluschi Igor , Tomasso Nora Di , Corti Daniele , Alfieri Ottavio , Gemma Marco
Published: January 2021

BackgroundPulmonary complications after cardiac surgery are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to develop predictive models for postoperative lung dysfunction and mortality.MethodsThis was a single-center, observational, retrospective study, which took place in a tertiary care University Hospital. We retrospectively analyzed data regarding 11285 adult patients who underwent all types of cardiac surgery from 2003 to 2015. We developed logistic predictive models for in-hospital mortality, for postoperative pulmonary complications (PPC) occurring in the intensive care unit (ICU), and the need for postoperative non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) when clinically indicated.ResultsAge, preoperative ejection fraction, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, emergency surgery, pharmacological and mechanical circulatory support, creatinine peak in the ICU, tracheostomy, and a lower PaO2/FiO2 ratio at ICU discharge were predictors of mortality. Age, ejection fraction, body mass index, creatinine peak in the ICU, blood-product use, inotropic support, and a lower PaO2/FiO2 ratio were predictors of postoperative NIMV. Preoperative lung disease, ejection fraction, NYHA class, inotropic and mechanical support, and preoperative serum creatinine were predictors of PPC.ConclusionsWe provide three models for the prediction of major pulmonary complications and mortality following cardiac surgery.
Image Bio-Markers and Gene Expression Data Correlation Framework for Lung Cancer Radio-Genomics Analysis Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Sui Dong , Guo Maozu , Ma Xiaoxuan , Baptiste Julian , Zhang Lei
Published: January 2021

Background: Precision medicine, a popular treatment strategy, has become increasingly important to the development of targeted therapy. To correlate medical imaging with prognostic and genomic data, researches in radiomics and radiogenomics have provide many pre-de_ned image features to describe image information quantitatively or qualitatively. However, in previous researches, there are only statistical results which proves high correlation among multi-source medical data, but those can't give intuitive and visual result. Results: In this paper, a deep learning based radio-genomics framework is provided to construct the linkage from lung tumor images to genomics data and implement generation process in turn, which form a bi-direction framework to map multi-source medical data. The imaging features are extracted from auto-encoder under the condition of genomics data. It can obtain much more relevant features than traditional radio-genomics methods. Finally, we use generative adversarial network to transform genomics data onto tumor images, which gives a cogent result to explain the linkage between them. Conclusions: Our proposed framework provides a deep learning method to do radio-genomics researches more functionally and intuitively.
A Rich Gallery of Carbon Dots based Photoluminescent Suspensions and Powders Derived by Citric acid/urea
Authors: Kelarakis Antonios , Krysmann Marta , Stachowska Joanna , Murphy Andrew , Mellor Claire , Gibbons Ella , Fernandes Diogo , Burgaz Engin , Yeates Stephen , Moore Joshua
Published: January 2021

In this study we demonstrate simple guidelines to generate a diverse range of fluorescent materials in both liquid and solid state by focusing on the most popular C-dots precursors, i.e. the binary systems of citric acid and urea. The pyrolytic treatment of those precursors combined with standard size separation techniques (dialysis and filtration), leads to four distinct families of photoluminescent materials in which the emissive signal predominantly arises from C-dots with embedded fluorophores, cyanuric acid-rich C-dots, a blend of molecular fluorophores and a mixture of C-dots with unbound molecular fluorophores, respectively. Within each one of those families the chemical composition and the optical properties of their members can be fine-tuned by adjusting the molar ratio of the reactants. Apart from generating a variety of aqueous dispersions, our approach leads to highly fluorescent powders derived from precursors comprising excessive amounts of urea that is consumed for the build-up of the carbogenic cores, the molecular fluorophores and the solid diluent matrix that suppresses self-quenching effects.
Design, Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Kinetic Study of 3-Amino-2,4-Diarylbenzo[4,5]Imidazo[1,2-a]Pyrimidines as Novel, Potent Α-Glucosidase Inhibitor
Authors: Peytam Fariba , Takalloobanafshi Ghazaleh , Saadattalab Toktam , Emamgholipour Zahra , Norouzbahari Maryam , Moghimi Setareh , Firoozpour Loghman , Bijanzadeh Hamid Reza , Faramarzi Mohammad Ali , Mojtabavi Somayeh , Rashidi-Ranjbar Parviz , Foroumadi Alireza
Published: January 2021

In an attempt to find novel, potent α-glucosidase inhibitors, a library of poly-substituted 3-amino-2,4-diarylbenzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidines 3a-ag have been synthesized through heating a mixture of 2-aminobenzimidazoles 1 and α-azidochalcone 2 under the mild conditions. This efficient, facile protocol has been resulted into the desirable compounds with a wide substrate scope in good to excellent yields. Afterwards, their α-glucosidase inhibitory activities were investigated. Showing IC50 values ranging from 16.4 ± 0.36 µM to 297.0 ± 1.2 µM confirmed their excellent potency to inhibit α-glucosidase which may provide new drug candidates in the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus. Among various synthesized 3-amino-2,4-diarylbenzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidines, compound 3k exhibited the highest potency against α-glucosidase (IC50 = 16.4 ± 0.36 μM) which was 45.7 times more potent than acarbose as standard inhibitor (IC50 = 750.0 ± 1.5 μM). Moreover, the role of amine moiety on the observed activity was studied through substituting with chlorine and hydrogen resulted into a considerable deterioration on the inhibitory activity. Kinetic study and molecular docking study have confirmed the in-vitro results.
Response to Perturbation During Quiet Standing Matches Delayed State Feedback With Precisely Tuned Control Gains
Authors: Zelei Ambrus , Milton John , Stepan Gabor , Insperger Tamas
Published: January 2021

Postural sway is a result of a complex action-reaction feedback mechanism generated by the interplay between the environment, the sensory perception, the neural system and the musculation. Postural oscillations are complex, possibly even chaotic. Therefore fitting deterministic models on measured time signals is ambiguous. Here we analyse the response to large enough perturbations during quiet standing such that the resulting responses can clearly be distinguished from the local postural sway. Measurements show that typical responses very closely resemble those of a critically damped oscillator. The recovery dynamics is modelled by an inverted pendulum subject to delayed state feedback and is described in the space of the control parameters. We hypothesize that the control gains are tuned such that (H1) the response is at the border of oscillatory and nonoscillatory motion; (H2) the response is the fastest possible; (H3) the response is a result of a combined optimization of fast response and robustness to sensory perturbations. Parameter fitting shows that H1 and H3 are accepted while H2 is rejected. Thus, the responses of human postural balance to “large” perturbations matches a delayed feedback mechanism that is optimized for a combination of performance and robustness.
Response of Sclerotinia Sclerotiorum to Long Exposure of Isothiocyanates by Transcriptomics Approach
Authors: Madloo Pari , Lema Margarita , Cartea Maria Elena , Soengas Pilar
Published: January 2021

White mold disease, caused by the necrotrophic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum affects Brassica crops. Brassica crops produce a broad array of compounds such as glucosinolates that contribute to defense against pathogens. From their hydrolysis arise several products with antimicrobial activity called isothiocyanates (ITCs) which toxicity is structure-dependent. It is recognized that S. sclerotiorum is able to overcome the toxic effect of moderate concentrations of ITCs after a prolonged exposure to their action. Our objective was to identify the molecular mechanism underlying response of S. sclerotiorum to long exposure of two chemically diverse ITCs: the aliphatic allyl-ITC (AITC) and the indolic indol-3-carbinol (I3C). We found, with a transcriptomic approach, that the response is dependent of the type of ITC and to their initial target, involving cell membranes in the case of AITC or DNA in the case of I3C. Mechanisms of response include the reorganization of chromatin, mediated by histones chaperones hip4 and cia1, synthesis of ribosomes controlled by the pair kinase-phosphatase aps1-ppn1, catabolism of proteins, synthesis of ergosterol and induction of efflux-pumpers and glutathione transferases. These mechanisms probably help S. sclerotiorum to grow and survive in an environment where ITCs are constantly produced by Brassica plants upon breakdown of glucosinolates.
Bio-convective and Chemically Reactive Hybrid Nanofluid Flow Upon a Thin Stirring Needle with Viscous Dissipation
Authors: Khan Arshad , Saeed Anwar , Tassaddiq Asifa , Gul Taza
Published: January 2021

In this work the thermal analysis for bio-convective hybrid nanofluid flowing upon a thin horizontally moving needle is carried out. The chemical reaction and viscous dissipation has also considered for flow system in the presence of microorganism. The hybrid nanoparticles comprising of Copper (Cu) and Alumina (Al2O3) are considered for current flow problem. Mathematically the flow problem is formulated by employing the famous Buongiorno’s model that will also investigate the consequences of thermophoretic forces and Brownian motion upon flow system. Group of similar variables is used to transform the model equations into dimensionless form and have then solved analytically by homotopy analysis method (HAM). It has established in this work that, flow of fluid declines due to increase in bioconvection Rayleigh number, buoyancy ratio and volume fractions of nanoparticles. Thermal flow grows due to rise in Eckert number, Brownian, thermophoresis parameters and volume fraction of nanoparticles. Concentration profiles increase due to growth in Brownian motion parameter and reduces due to increase in thermophoresis parameter and Lewis number. Motile microorganism profile declines due to augmentation in Peclet and bioconvection Lewis numbers. Moreover, the percentage enhancement in the drag force and rate of heat transfer using nanofluid and hybrid nanofluids are observed and discussed. The hybrid nanofluid increases the skin friction and heat transfer rate more rapidly and efficiently as compared to other traditional fluids. A comparison of the present study with the existing literature is also conducted with a closed agreement between both results for variations in thickness of the needle.
A Lipid Metabolism-Related Genes Prognosis Biomarker Associated With The Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: YANG Chao , Huang Shuoyang , ZHENG Yongbin , CAO Fengyu
Published: January 2021

Background: Lipid metabolic reprogramming was considered as a new hallmark of malignant tumors. It has been reported to play a crucial biological role in cell proliferation, energy homeostasis and signal-transduction. However, the important value of lipid metabolism-related genes(LMRGs) in prognostic prediction and the tumor immune microenvironment has not been explored by large sample studies in colorectal cancer(CRC). Methods: In this study, the lipid metabolism status of 1086 CRC samples was analyzed using RNA expression profiles and clinical data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, of which the former was determined as training set and the latter as validation set. The risk signature was constructed by the univariate Cox regression and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator(LASSO) COX regression. The patients were stratified into high- and low-risk groups according to the median value of the risk score. Immune and mutation landscape between low- and high-risk CRC patients were also explored. Additionally, we established a nomogram integrating the risk signature and clinical factors to improve risk assessment of CRC patients. Results: A four LMRGs signature, including PROCA1, CCKBR, CPT2 and FDFT1, was constructed to predict the prognosis of CRC. The risk signature as an independent prognostic factor for CRC was associated with a variety of parameters. Survival analysis showed that patients with low risk score had a better prognosis. There were different immune landscapes between low and high-risk CRC patients, especially in monocytes, dendritic cells, M0 and M2-like macrophages. Patients in the low-risk group were more likely to have higher tumor mutation burden, stem cell characteristics and level of PD-L1 expression. In addition, it was found that genes that played crucial biological functions in tumorigenesis (including TP53, PI3K and MUC16) had significant differences in mutation frequency between two groups. Conclusion: A lipid metabolism-related risk signature for predicting the prognosis of CRC was identified in this study. Furthermore, this prognostic signature may be a potential biomarker for predicting the efficacy of chemotherapy and anti-PD-L1 therapy in CRC.
CD4/CD8 Ratio of Pleural Effusion Is A Prognostic Predictor for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Under Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatments
Authors: Lee Po-Hsin , Yang Tsung-Ying , Chen Kun-Chieh , Huang Yen-Hsiang , Tseng Jeng-Sen , Hsu Kuo-Hsuan , Wu Yu-Chen , Liu Ko-Jiunn , Chang Gee-Chen
Published: January 2021

Pleural effusion is a rare immune-related adverse event for lung cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We enrolled 281 lung cancer patients treated with ICIs and 17 were analyzed. We categorized the formation of pleural effusion into 3 patterns: type 1, rapid and massive; type 2, slow and indolent and type 3, with disease progression. CD4/CD8 ratio of 1.93 was selected as the cutoff threshold to predict survival. Most patients of types 1 and 2 effusions possessed pleural effusion with CD4/CD8 ratios > = 1.93. The median OS time in type 1, 2, and 3 patients were not reached, 24.8, and 2.6 months. The median PFS time in type 1, 2, and 3 patients were 35.5, 30.2, and 1.4 months. The median OS for the group with pleural effusion CD4/CD8 > = 1.93 and < 1.93 were not reached and 2.6 months. The median PFS of those with pleural effusion CD4/CD8 > = 1.93 and < 1.93 were 18.4 and 1.2 months. In conclusion, patients with type 1 and 2 effusion patterns had better survival than those with type 3. Type 1 might be interpreted as pseudoprogression of malignant pleural effusion. CD4/CD8 ratio > = 1.93 in pleural effusion is a good predicting factor for PFS.
Vestibular Rehabilitation to the Patients With Vestibular Migraine and Vestibular Neuritis
Authors: Goto Fumiyuki , Sugaya Nagisa , Okami Kenji , Iida Masahiro
Published: January 2021

BackgroundIt is not yet clarified the effect of vestibular rehabilitation on patients with vestibular migraine (VM) .Aims/Objectives In this study, we aimed to compare the effect of vestibular rehabilitation on patients with VM and those in the chronic stage of vestibular neuritis (VN). Material and Methods A total of 26 patients with VM and 31 patients in the chronic stage of VN who were treated. All patients underwent an in-hospitalized vestibular rehabilitation program. A variety of data including the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), POMS, and posturography were compared. ResultsBefore treatment, there was no significant difference in the parameters between the two groups, except for a higher confusion score of Profile of Mood States (POMS) in the VM group. In both groups, the DHI score significantly improved. In the VM group, the confusion score of POMS, physical component score (PCS) of SF-8, and some parameters in posturography significantly improved. In the VN group, anxiety, depression, and PCS of SF-8 significantly improved.Conclusions and Significance The higher confusion score of POMS in patients with VM reflects the known increased comorbidity risk of psychiatric disorders. In both groups, in-hospitalized vestibular rehabilitation was effective in alleviating the subjective and objective parameters of vestibular symptoms within a month.
Dominant Egg Surface Bacteria of Holotrichia Oblita (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) Inhibit The Multiplication of Bacillus Thuringiensis and Beauveria Bassiana
Authors: Wang Kui , Liu Qi , Liu Chunqin , Geng Lili , Wang Guirong , Zhang Jie , Shu Changlong
Published: January 2021

Many species of scarabs (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) are important pests. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and Beauveria bassiana (Bb) are entomopathogens that have been used as biocontrol agents of various pests. However, neither provides adequate control of scarab pests in the field. In this study, we used Holotrichia oblita, an important scarab pest in China, as a model to explore the reason of difficult to control. Compared to other scarabs, H. oblita could form a unique egg cocoon structure, in which the young larvae complete the initial development process. We analyzed the microbiome of eggs surface, egg cocoon and bulk soil respectively, and investigated the role of these microorganisms in pathogen infection. 16S rRNA gene analysis revealed low bacterial richness in egg surface with Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria dominating in terms of OTUs number, and indicated that the microbial community structure varied among egg and soil samples. Some dominant species of the egg surface have been reported to exhibit antimicrobial activity, which may contribute to the low susceptibility of young larvae to entomopathogens. The further confrontation culture analysis verified this hypothesis. We found that 11 of 28 cultivable isolates possessed antimicrobial activity against both Bt and Bb, and all isolates from egg surface samples showed antagonistic ability. Four isolates belonging to Pseudomonas showed strong Bt- and weak Bb-antagonistic ability, and this genus significantly increased in egg surface samples. This study demonstrated that H. oblita egg has a unique microbial community structure, containing microorganisms with antimicrobial activity against entomopathogens. These microorganisms protect the newly hatched larvae from pathogen infection.
Gene Expression Analysis of Induced Plum Pox Virus Resistance in Peach (Prunus Persica) by Almond (P. Dulcis) Grafting
Authors: Rubio Manuel , Martínez-García Pedro , Azam Nikbakht-Dehkordi , Prudencio Angela , Gómez Eva , Rodamilans Bernardo , Dicenta Federico , García Juan , Martínez-Gómez Pedro
Published: January 2021

No natural sources of resistance to Plum pox virus (PPV, sharka disease) have been identified in peach. However, previous studies have demonstrated that grafting ‘Garrigues’ almond onto ‘GF305’ peach seedlings heavily infected with PPV can progressively reduce disease symptoms and virus accumulation. Furthermore, grafting ‘Garrigues’ onto ‘GF305’ has completely prevented virus infection. This study aims to analyse the rewiring of gene expression associated with this resistance to PPV transmitted by grafting through phloem using RNA-Seq and RTqPCR analysis. A total of 18 candidate genes were differentially expressed after grafting ‘Garrigues’ almond onto healthy ‘GF305’ peach. Among the up-regulated genes, a HEN1 homolog stands out, which, together with the differential expression of RDR- and DCL2-homologs in some of the conditions assayed, suggests that the RNA silencing machinery is activated by PPV infection and can contribute to the resistance induced by ‘Garrigues’ almond. Glucan endo -1,3-Beta D-Glucosidase could be also relevant for the ‘Garrigues’-induced response, since its expression is much higher in ‘Garrigues’ than in ‘GF305’. We also discuss the potential relevance of the following in PPV infection and ‘Garrigues’-induced resistance: several pathogenesis-related proteins, No apical meristem proteins, the transcription initiation factor TFIIB, the Speckle-type POZ protein and a number of proteins involved in phytohormone signalling.
PSI-Guided Mandible-First Orthognathic Surgery: Maxillo-Mandibular Position Accuracy and Vertical Dimension Adjustability.
Authors: Badiali Giovanni , Bevini Mirko , Lunari Ottavia , Lovero Elisa , Ruggiero Federica , Bolognesi Federico , Feraboli Liliana , Bianchi Alberto , Marchetti Claudio
Published: January 2021

In orthognathic surgery, patient-specific osteosynthesis implants (PSIs) represent a novel approach for the reproduction of the virtual surgical planning on the patient. The aim of this study is to analyse the quality of maxillo-mandibular positioning using a hybrid mandible-first mandibular-PSI guided procedure on twenty-two patients while the upper maxilla was fixed using manually-bent stock titanium miniplates. The virtual surgical plan was used to guide the design of PSIs and positioning guides, which were then 3D printed using biocompatible materials. A CBCT scan was performed one month after surgery and postoperative facial skeletal models were segmented for comparison against the surgical plan. A three-dimensional cephalometric analysis was carried out on both planned and obtained anatomies. A Spearman correlation matrix was computed on the calculated discrepancies, in order to achieve a more comprehensive description of maxillo-mandibular displacement. Intraoperatively, all PSIs were successfully applied. The procedure was found to be accurate in planned maxillo-mandibular positioning reproduction, while maintaining a degree of flexibility to allow for aesthetics-based verticality correction in a pitch range between-5.31 and +1.79 mm. Such correction did not significantly affect the achievement of planned frontal symmetry.
Safety evaluation of a medical congress held during the COVID-19 pandemic – a prospective cohort
Authors: Flury Domenica , Sumer Johannes , Albrich Werner C. , Kahlert Christian R. , Mueller Nicolas J. , Risch Lorenz , Nigg Susanne , Seneghini Marco , Vernazza Pietro , Schlegel Matthias , Kohler Philipp
Published: January 2021

Background

Worldwide, scientific congresses are cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, scientific exchange is more important than ever, especially for infectious diseases and infection prevention specialists. Within a prospective cohort of congress attendees, we evaluated the safety concept of the 2020 congress of the Swiss Societies of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Hygiene.
Methods

The congress was held between September 2nd and 4th 2020 in Geneva (Switzerland), where COVID-19 incidence in the week during the congress was 65 cases /100 000 population within 7 days. A rigorous safety concept was implemented including universal face masking, physical distancing during sessions, and maximal reduction of social events. We invited congress attendees to participate in this prospective cohort and used an anonymized online questionnaire to assess risk perception, risk exposures, symptoms and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 of attendees before, during and after the congress. Dried blood spots were taken from attendees on-site and four weeks later to detect specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and to document seroconversions.
Results

A total of 365 people attended the congress, thereof 271 healthcare professionals. Of these, 196 (54%) either answered the questionnaire (N = 150) or provided baseline and follow-up blood samples (N = 168). None of the study participants reported a positive PCR result in the 2 weeks after the congress. Five of 168 (3%) participants were seropositive at follow-up, all of which had already been positive at baseline. The safety concept was deemed appropriate by 92% of the study participants and hygiene measures were performed correctly by the vast majority.
Conclusion

In this prospective cohort of congress attendees, no PCR positive cases or seroconversions could be documented after attending an on-site medical congress. These findings indicate that congresses with a rigorous safety concept may take place, even in areas with moderately-high COVID-19 activity.
Non-prescription use of Antibiotics and its Associated Factors in Drug Retail Outlet in Ambo Town, Oromiya, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bule Mohammed , Alemayehu Hika , Sileshi Tesemma , Chaka Eshetu E.
Published: January 2021

Background

The non-prescription use of antibiotics is a major challenge faced by all nations. The practice is pronounced in developing and low-income countries where legislation and regulations are weak. The present study assessed the non-prescription use of antibiotics and associated factors in Ambo town, West Shoa, Oromiya, Ethiopia.
Methods

Institutional based cross-sectional study design supported with the qualitative study was conducted in Ambo town from February 1to March 1, 2020. Data were collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire and in-depth interview guide questions. Simple random sampling was used to select retail outlets and systematic random sampling to select study participants. The data analysis was done using SPSS and univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were performed to identify factors associated with non-prescription use of antibiotics. Thematic framework analysis was applied for the qualitative data.
Results

From a 421 study sample, a total of 399 participants were interviewed with a 94.8% response rate. Among the study participants 214 (53.6) were males, 228 (57.1%) were married, 191(47.9%) were orthodox by religion and, 343(86%) were Oromo by ethnicity. One hundred seventy two (43.1%) 95% CI= (38.6, 48.1) of the participants had used non prescribed Antibiotics. Being male [AOR = 2.21 95%CI 1.276,3.835], residing in rural area [AOR = 3.659, 95%CI 1.479, 9.054], holding Diploma[AOR = 0.120, 95% CI 0.025, 0.591], and hold BSC Degree [AOR = 0.050, 95% CI 0.007, 0.378], and being farmer [AOR = 0.034, 95% CI 0.004, 0.285] showed significant association with the non prescription use of Antibiotics.
Conclusion

This study concluded that the non-prescription use of antibiotics 172 (43.1%) was relatively high. Being male, residing in a rural area, holding a diploma, BSc Degree, and being a farmer were significantly associated with non-prescription use of antibiotics. So West Shoa Zone regulatory body should actively focus on the prevention of non-prescription use of Antibiotics through health communication and public awareness on the demerits of non-prescription use of Antibiotics
The potent cytotoxicity effect of thymoquinone on Chinese ovarian carcinoma cell line HO-8910 mediated by activating autophagy pathway.
Authors: zhu runzhi , Ye Fei , Wang Xitong , Xia Tian , Yuan Xiao , Da Lanyue , Yin Qian
Published: January 2021

Ovarian cancer is known for its highest mortality rate in gynecological malignancy. Previous studies demonstrated that thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive compound isolated from Nigella sativa L., is a potent anti-ovarian cancer agent, which inhibit tumor growth by modulating apoptotic activity. In this study, we found that the effect of chemotherapy on ovarian cancer cells in vitro varies by race/ethnicity. HO-8910 was established from Chinese patient with ovarian serous carcinoma. The results showed that HO-8910 displayed higher resistance to platinum than SKOV3. And further cell variability assay indicated that TQ exhibited dramatically inhibitory activity on HO-8910 and SKOV3. However, apoptosis and cell cycle analysis suggested TQ had multiple mechanisms for its cytotoxic effect. As for HO-8910, TQ could modulated expression level of several pivotal factors involving autophagy, including PI3K, ATG-7, Bectlin-1 and p62, but has little effect on p53, PARP and caspase-3, and no effect on Bax. Our results sustained that TQ was a promising anti-ovarian cancer candidate and its potential application in Chinese patients, even Asian patients , treatment in clinic.
Investigating Partner Involvement in Pregnancy and Identifying Barriers and Facilitators to Participating as a Couple in a Digital Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Intervention.
Authors: Rhodes Alexandra , Smith Andrea , Llewellyn Clare , Croker Helen
Published: January 2021

BackgroundMaternal obesity and excessive gestational weight gain are associated with adverse maternal and foetal health outcomes. Interventions targeting dietary and physical activity behaviours during pregnancy have typically been directed at women only. A digital intervention targeting couples could encourage expectant parents to support each other in improving energy balance behaviours. AimsThis study aimed to investigate the role partners play in pregnant women’s energy balance behaviours, and to identify barriers and facilitators to participating as a couple in a digital intervention to encourage healthy eating and physical activity in pregnancy. MethodsA qualitative design combined online focus groups and telephone interviews. Three focus groups were held with men (n=15) and one mini focus group (n=3) and 12 telephone interviews were conducted with women. Participants were either in the last trimester of pregnancy or had a baby under 18 months old. Most were from more deprived population groups where prevalence of maternal obesity is higher. Data were analysed thematically. Barriers and facilitators to participating as a couple in a digital intervention were mapped to the COM-B model and the Theoretical Domains Framework.ResultsFour main themes were identified; partner involvement and support; partner understanding of good energy balance behaviours; couple concordance of energy balance behaviours; partner influence on her energy balance behaviours. Most facilitators to participating in a digital intervention as a couple fell within the Reflective Motivation domain of COM-B. Men were motivated by the desire to be supportive partners and good role models. Women were motivated by their belief that partner involvement would improve their success in achieving goals and enhance couple bonding. Other facilitators included concordance in dietary behaviours (Physical Opportunity), healthcare practitioner recommendation, perceptions of pregnancy as ‘ours’ (Social Opportunity) and feeling supported and involved (Automatic Motivation). Barriers were rarely mentioned but included potential for partner conflict, perceptions of pregnancy as ‘hers’ and economic constraints.ConclusionsAn opportunity exists to harness partner support to improve maternal energy balance behaviours. Barriers and facilitators to participating in a digital intervention as a couple indicate its potential to benefit emotional and relationship wellbeing in addition to physical health.