bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Security among People who Inject Drugs in West Virginia
Authors: Rouhani Saba , Allen Sean T , Whaley Sarah , White Rebecca H , O'Rourke Allison , Schneider Kristin E , Kilkenny Michael E , Weir Brian W , Sherman Susan G
Published: January 2021

Background. The substance use epidemic in the United States continues to drive high levels of morbidity and mortality, particularly among people who inject drugs (PWID). Poor access to food co-occurs with illicit drug use and contributes to associated sequelae, such as HIV and diabetes. The objective of this study was to examine factors associated with food security among PWID in a rural Appalachian community. Methods. Cross-sectional surveys were used to collect data in a sample of 420 PWID aged 18 and older Cabell County, West Virginia. Frequency of food access and sociodemographic, structural and drug use characteristics were measured. Food security was defined as reporting ‘never’ going to bed hungry at night in the past six months. Pearson’s χ2 and t-tests were used to identify factors associated with food security. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to estimate adjusted odds of being food secure.Results. Only 71 individuals (17%) reported never going to bed hungry night in the past six months. Adjusted odds of being food secure were higher among PWID who completed high school (aOR 2.94; P=0.010) and usually using drugs alone (aOR 1.97; P=0.025), and lower among PWID who were female (aOR 0.51; P=0.037), experienced homelessness (aOR 0.23, P<0.001), were recently arrested (aOR 0.50 P=0.049), and engaged in receptive sharing of injection equipment (aOR 0.52, P=0.035).Conclusions. We found extremely low levels of food security in a population of PWID in Appalachia who are vulnerable to overdose and infectious disease transmission. Integrated interventions that approach food provision as harm reduction are needed to address the overlapping factors that jeopardize the health and wellbeing of people who inject drugs.
Prevalence and Molecular Characteristics of Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium Tuberculosis in Hainan, China: From 2014 to 2019
Authors: zhao xiujuan , Liu Lin , Wu Xingyong , Li Sijing , Liu Biao , Rajaofera Mamy Jayne Nelly , Zeng Yingfei , Dong Sufang , Bei Zheng , Pei Hua , Xia Qianfeng
Published: January 2021

BackgroundThe emergence of antimicrobial resistance against mycobacterium tuberculosis has become the major concern in global tuberculosis control due to its limited therapy options and high mortality. However, the clinical and molecular characteristics of drug-resistant strains vary in different geographical areas. Hainan Island located in southern China, is a high drug-resistant tuberculosis burden area. This study aimed to determine the dynamic changes of drug-resistance patterns and drug-related gene mutation types of mycobacterium tuberculosis in Hainan from 2014 to 2019. ResultsA total of 1484 culture-confirmed mycobacterium tuberculosis were included in this study. It was found that the proportions of drug resistance to isoniazid and rifampin were 31.3% and 31.1% respectively. Overall, the proportion of multidrug resistant mycobacterium tuberculosis was 24.9%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age and the treatment history were independent influencing factors of drug resistant tuberculosis. The proportions of drug-resistant tuberculosis in retreatment patients were considerably higher than those in new patients. The most common mutation types of isoniazid were Ser315 → Thr (66.3%), and the most common mutation types of rifampin were Ser 531 → Leu (41.5%). ConclusionsOur data suggests that the prevalence of drug resistant TB remains high in Hainan, and the risks for developing drug resistance with diversified and complicated mutation types increased significantly in retreatment patients. These results contribute to the knowledge of the prevalence of drug resistance in Hainan Province and also expand the molecular characteristics of drug resistance in China.
The Study of Laccase Immobilization Optimization and Stability Improvement on CTAB-KOH Modified Biochar
Authors: Wang Zhaobo , Ren Dajun , Li Zihang , Yu Hongyan , Zhang Shuqin , Zhang Xiaoqing , Chen Wangsheng
Published: January 2021

Background: In this paper, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-KOH modified biochar (CKMB) was used to immobilize laccase by adsorption method (laccase@CKMB). Based on the results of the single-factor experiments, the optimal loading conditions of laccase@CKMB were studied with the assistance of Design-Expert 12 and response surface methods. Results: The predicted optimal experimental conditions were laccase dosage 1.78 mg/mL, pH 3.1 and 312 K. Under these conditions, the activity recovery of laccase@CKMB was the highest, reaching 61.78 %. Then, the CKMB and laccase@CKMB were characterized by TGA, FT-IR, XRD, BET and SEM, and the results showed that laccase could be well immobilized on CKMB, the maximum enzyme loading could reach 57.5 mg/g. Compared to free laccase, the storage and pH stability of laccase@CKMB was improved greatly. The laccase@CKMB retained about 40 % of relative activity (4 ℃, 30 days) and more than 50 % of relative activity at pH 2-6. In addition, the laccase@CKMB indicated the reusability up to 6 reaction cycles while retaining 45.1 % of relative activity. Moreover, the thermal deactivation kinetic studies of laccase@CKMB showed a lower k value (0.00275 min-1) and higher t1/2 values (252.0 min) than the k value (0.00573 min-1) and t1/2 values (121.0 min) of free laccase. Conclusions: In summary, we explored scientific and reasonable immobilization conditions of laccase@CKMB, and the laccase@CKMB possessed relatively better stabilities, which gave the immobilization of laccase on this cheap and easily available carrier material the possibility of industrial applications.
Effects of inducible and constitutive expression vectors on heterologous expression of LEH mutants BE3 and BG5
Authors: Yong Jie , Liu Binghuan , Wang Kunlun , Yang Hui , Tian Yun , Zhou Haiyan
Published: January 2021

Background

Limonene epoxide hydrolase (LEH) is a class of enzymes in Epoxide hydrolases (EHs) that can form chiral products only by one step catalysis. High purity S or R chiral intermediates play an important role in the application of biomedical industry, and can be used to synthesize various drugs such as ibuprofen, linezoline, cilastatin, etc. Therefore, it has application value to find the expression system which can realize the stable and efficient conversion of LEH to produce high purity S and R chiral products.
Results

We explored the constitutive expression system of LEH for the first time, and tried to realize the expression of LEH in B.subtilis WB800. Firstly, the LEH mutant on the original inducible vector pBAD-Myc-HisA was obtained and connected to the constitutive vector pHY-p43 containing strong promoter p43. E. coli TOP10 and B.subtilis WB800 were used as the host bacteria to realize the non induced and secretory expression of LEH.
Conclusions

The results showed that the non induced expression of LEH could be achieved successfully by using the constitutive promoter vector pHY-p43, and the substrate affinity and enzyme catalytic efficiency of the mutants have increased. The catalytic decomposition of the substrate and the formation of chiral products by LEH were determined by GC-MS, which also had stable enzyme activity in the system. This study laid a foundation for large-scale fermentation of LEH and catalytic production of chiral products.
Impact of Maternal Chronodisruption on Female Offspring Puberty. A Role of Kisspeptin and Irisin
Authors: Alonso Ana , Medina Beatriz , González Celestino , Díaz Elena
Published: January 2021

The neuroendocrine mechanisms regulating the onset of puberty are unclear. Kisspeptin is a potent gatekeeper of pubertal onset, but it has also been proposed that the time of puberty is dictated by kisspeptin independent mechanism. In this way, the myokine irisin could be involved in the puberty onset process serving as a metabolic trigger. Puberty is influenced by environmental factors like photoperiod. Maternal photoperiod influences postnatal development; thus alterations in maternal melatonin rhythm may affect the offspring’s reproductive axis development, especially at puberty. There is no research regarding the influence of maternal photoperiod on kisspeptin and irisin profile in offspring close to puberty. We investigated the influence of maternal photoperiod on serum kisspeptin and irisin levels during sexual development in female rat offspring.The study was carried out on female offspring Wistar rats at 25 and 30 days of age and in the vaginal opening day. Pregnant mother rats were included in three groups; control (12L/12 D), other exposed to continuous light during pregnancy (24L/0D), and the third exposed to continuous light as well as receiving daily melatonin during pregnancy. Serum kisspeptin and irisin were determined and vaginal opening day were registered. The results demonstrated that both continuous light exposure and melatonin treatment during intrauterine life affects kisspeptin and irisin secretion in the offspring during sexual maturation; these point out to an important role of the cytokine irisin in the onset of puberty.
Dexmedetomidine might improve postoperative cognitive dysfunction in older patients undergoing pulmonary surgery
Authors: LIU Tao , Liu Chao Fang , Luo Jun Tai , YU Xia , Chen Bin , Wang Chun , Gao Kuo Guang , Shi Guo Zhi , Zhai Ting Wen , Liu Wei
Published: January 2021

Background

The effect of dexmedetomidine on cognitive function after various surgeries were reported, however no consensus is made on pulmonary surgery. In this study we aimed at investigating the effect of dexmedetomidine anesthesia on postoperative cognitive function (POCD) in pulmonary surgery.
Methods

A prospective randomized placebo-controlled study was conducted with blinded to patients. The study was performed on 60 patients (29 in the dexmedetomidine group; 31 in the placebo group). Dexmedetomidine-group patients received dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg, i.v.) and Placebo-group patients received an equal volume of physiologic (0.9%) saline for 20 min before anesthesia induction. Cognitive function was evaluated using Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) 1 day before surgery, as well as on postoperative day (POD)1, POD3 and POD7. The regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) was monitored continuously by near-infrared spectroscopy before anesthesia.
Results

The MoCA score between the two groups was significantly different on POD1 (Dex 26.4 ± 0.73 vs Placebo 25.5 ± 0.96, p < 0.001) and POD3 (Dex 27.1 ± 0.79 vs Placebo 26.6 ± 0.80, p = 0.032). In detail, attention and orientation scores were increased in the dexmedetomidine group on POD1 and POD3. The rSO2 between the dexmedetomidine group or placebo group was not significantly different (Dex 64.9 ± 2.73 vs. Placebo 64.3 ± 3.29, p = 0.483), and no significant difference was found before drug administration and after regaining consciousness (Dex 63.5 ± 2.52 vs. Placebo 64.2 ± 3.22; p = 0.390).
Conclusion

We showed, for the first time, that dexmedetomidine (1.0 µg/kg) could reduce the risk of POCD and might not decrease rSO2. Hence, dexmedetomidine could be employed in pulmonary surgical procedures, especially for older patients facing high risk of delirium.
Determination of the median effective dose of dexmedetomidine for the prevention of emergence agitation in geriatric patients undergoing major open surgery with general anesthesia: A prospective, double-blinded, dose-response trial
Authors: wang weibing , Sun AiJiao , Xiao JingBo , Dong JingChun , Xu Huang , Zhou Hui
Published: January 2021

BackgroundDexmedetomidine can effectively decrease the incidences of emergence agitation (EA) in adult patients, but there are major side effects related to increased dose of dexmedetomidine. The purpose of this study was to determine of the median effective dose of dexmedetomidine in the prevention of EA among geriatric patients undergoing major open surgery with general anesthesia.MethodsA total of 50 geriatric patients were enrolled in this study. Dexmedetomidine 0.5µg·kg-1·h-1 continuous intravenous infusion was administered to the first patient. The next dose was increased or decreased by 0.05 depending on the response of the previous patient, according to the Dixon up-and-down method. An “effective” or “ineffective” response was determined based on the Riker sedation-agitation score(RSAS), we defined “effective” as RSAS < 5, and “ineffective” as RSAS ≥ 5.ResultsThe ED50 of dexmedetomidine in prevention of EA was 0.30µg·kg-1·h-1 (95% CI, 0.27–0.33) and the predicted ED95 was 0.42µg·kg-1·h-1(95% CI, 0.38–0.51). The incidence of bradycardia was significant increased in group without EA compared to the group with EA (57.1% vs 13.6%, P = 0.002).ConclusionsThe ED50 of dexmedetomidine in prevention of EA was 0.30µg·kg-1·h-1 (95% CI, 0.27–0.33) and the predicted ED95 was 0.42µg·kg-1·h-1 (95% CI, 0.38–0.51). Bradycardia was the main complication.Trial registrationThis study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration number: ChiCTR1900023769) on June 11th, 2019.
Identifying Contextual Determinants of Problems in Tuberculosis Care Provision in South Africa: A Theory-Generating Case Study
Authors: Murdoch Jamie , Curran Robyn , Rensburg André J van , Awotiwon Ajibola , Dube Audry , Bachmann Max , Petersen Inge , Fairall Lara
Published: January 2021

BackgroundDespite progress towards meeting End TB strategy targets for reducing tuberculosis (TB) incidence and deaths by 2035, South Africa remains among the top ten high-burden tuberculosis countries globally. A large challenge lies in how policies to improve detection, diagnosis and treatment completion interact with social and structural drivers of TB. Detailed understanding and theoretical development of the contextual determinants of problems in TB care is required for developing effective interventions. This article reports findings from the pre-implementation phase of a study of TB care in South Africa, contributing to ASSET - a broader five-year research programme developing and evaluating health system strengthening interventions in sub-Saharan Africa. The study aimed to develop hypothetical propositions regarding the contextual determinants of problems in TB care to inform intervention development to reduce TB deaths and incidence whilst ensuring the delivery of quality integrated, respectful person-centred care. MethodsTheory-building case study design using the Context and Implementation of Complex Interventions (CICI) framework to identify contextual determinants of problems in TB care. Between February and November 2019, we used mixed methods in six public- sector primary healthcare facilities and one public sector hospital serving impoverished urban and rural communities in the Amajuba district of KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. Qualitative data included stakeholder interviews, observations and documentary analysis. Quantitative data included routine data on sputum testing and TB deaths. Data were inductively analysed and mapped onto the seven CICI contextual domains. ResultsDelayed diagnosis was caused by interactions between fragmented healthcare provision; limited resources; verticalised care provision; poor TB screening, sputum collection and record-keeping. One nurse responsible for TB care, limited integration with other conditions, and policy focus on treatment adherence contributed to staff stress and limited focus on patients’ psychosocial needs. Patients were lost to follow up due to discontinuity of information, poverty, employment restrictions and limited support for treatment side-effects. Infection control measures appeared to be compromised by efforts to integrate care.ConclusionInterventions are required that strengthen early detection, diagnosis, treatment initiation and completion. TB policy needs to promote person-centred support for healthcare professionals and patients through the TB treatment pathway.
ZRANB1 Drives Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression through SP1-LOXL2 Axis
Authors: Xie Peiyi , Li Qing , Chao Qing , Fang Jiayu , Xie Jing , Liu Yue , Zhen Jing , Ding Yongqi , Fu Bidong , Ke Yun , Xiao Fan , Wu Honghu , Huang Zhaoxia , Hao Haibin , Huang Da
Published: January 2021

BackgroundDeubiquitinase (DUB) zinc finger RANBP2-type containing 1 (ZRANB1/TRABID) has been reported to have a close relationship with cancers. However, its underlying role and molecular mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain elusive. MethodsGene and protein expression of ZRANB1 in HCC tissues were determined by qRT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. A series of gain- and loss-of-function assays were used to investigated the role of ZRANB1 in HCC cells progression. Moreover, RNA-seq were used to identify the downstream targets of ZRANB1 in HCC cells. The interaction between ZRANB1 and SP1 was examined through co-IP experiment and in vitro ubiquitination assay.ResultsZRANB1 was highly expressed in HCC tissues and ZRANB1 can regulate HCC cell growth and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Through RNA-seq, we identified that Lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) was the most significantly downregulated gene after ZRANB1 knockdown. Furthermore, the scatter plots indicated a significant positive correlation between ZRANB1 and LOXL2 expression in clinical HCC specimens. Additionally, LOXL2 was essential for ZRANB1-mediated HCC growth and metastasis. More importantly, specificity protein 1 (SP1) was critical in ZRANB1-mediated regulation of LOXL2 expression. Mechanistically, ZRANB1 bound with SP1 directly and stabilized the SP1 protein by deubiquitinating it. The expression patterns of ZRANB1, SP1 and LOXL2 were evaluated in HCC patients. ConclusionZRANB1 overexpression facilitates the carcinogenesis of HCC through stabilizing and upregulating SP1 to promote LOXL2 expression, suggesting ZRANB1 can be novel prognostic biomarker for HCC treatment.
An Integrative Workflow to Prioritize Toxicity Initiation Events From Air-liquid-interface Exposure of Human Lung Cells to Combustion Aerosols: First Application to Emissions From a Heavy Fuel Oil or Diesel Fuel Operated Ship Engine
Authors: Gupta Suchi Smita , Orasche Jürgen , Streibel Thorsten , Passig Johannes , Czech Hendryk , Schnelle-Kreis Jürgen , Sklorz Martin , Sippula Olli , Jokiniemi Jorma , Hirvonen Maija-Riitta , Dittmar Gunnar , Kanashova Tamara , Öder Sebastian , Buters Jeroen , Stengel Benjamin , Harndorf Horst , Dilger Marco , Schlager Christoph , Hiller Karsten , Sapcariou Sean , Gupta Shailendra , Wolkenhauer Olaf , Zimmermann Ralf
Published: January 2021

BackgroundAdvancement in the instrumentation techniques made it possible to identify the compositions and concentrations of various chemicals, such as organic compounds or metals in combustion aerosols. However, the prediction of combustion aerosol-induced toxicity end points in lung epithelium cells is difficult due to the large number of non-linear chemical-biological interactions. It is evident that some chemicals present in the combustion aerosols upregulate certain genes/ proteins while other chemicals downregulate them, making the prediction of toxicity of a mixture of chemicals a challenging task. Also, the presence of large numbers of feedback and feedforward regulatory loops makes the entire prediction process highly dynamic. MethodsHere we present an integrative workflow to construct and analyze combustion aerosol-type specific chemical-gene regulatory network. For this, we develop an algorithm to estimate the combined regulatory effect of chemicals present in the combustion aerosol on each of the genes/proteins in the network. Further we rank the nodes by combining various network topological and non-topological parameters using a multi-objective optimization function. The top ranked nodes were used to identify aerosol-type specific key regulators that contributes toward the understanding of adverse outcomes due to the exposure of combustion aerosols. ResultsThe integrative workflow is evaluated using transcriptomics analysis carried out on human bronchial epithelium cell line BEAS-2B exposed at the air liquid interface (ALI) to the combustion aerosols generated by ship engine running either on distillate Diesel Fuel (DF) or on Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) along with chemometric analysis. Based on the prioritized chemicals, we prepared DF and HFO combustion aerosols-specific chemical-gene regulatory network. Our study reveals the large differences in the observed biological effects caused by operating the same ship engine on the different fuels.ConclusionThe presented workflow can be used to investigate key regulatory processes associated with the toxicity outcomes of mixture of chemicals and also for the hazard classification and assessment of various combustion aerosols.
The Pathways to Seeking Treatment, Diagnose and Follow Up of Esophageal Cancer Patients in Arsi Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia: Qualitative Phenomenological Study
Authors: Deyabsso Haji Aman , Roba Kedir Teji , Belachew Tefera
Published: January 2021

Background:- Esophageal cancer patients experience multifaceted challenges but studies often focus on the prevalence and risk factors of esophageal cancer with no documentation of the lived experiences of patients. This study aimed at exploring the lived experiences of esophageal cancer patients with the concept of uncovering pathways to seeking treatment, diagnosis, and follow-up. Methods:- A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted from September 01 to October 30, 2019. Data were collected from 25 patients (14 males and 11 females) through in-depth interviews using semi-structured interview guides and audio recordings. The data collectors’ notes and audio recordings were transcribed verbatim. The transcribed data were translated into English and coded using Atlas.ti.7.0.71 version software. Data were analyzed by the inductive thematic analysis method. Results:- The study demonstrated four main themes; experiences of symptoms of esophageal cancer, pathways to seeking treatment and diagnosis, barriers to treatment follow-up, and challenges of survival with esophageal cancer. The pathways to seeking and diagnosis were described with the concepts of self-care, visiting traditional healers, and hierarchical layers of health care delivery systems. The barriers to treatment follow-up were related to inaccessible and unaffordable health care services, and attitudes towards treatment. The challenges of survival with esophageal cancer were designated as problems with food intakes, treatment side effects, reduced quality of life, psychological and physical impairments. Conclusion:- Esophageal cancer patients in this study experienced complex pathways to treatment-seeking, multidimensional obstacles to treatment follow-up, and live with unbearable challenges.
The Sensitivity to Change of the Cluster Headache Quality of Life Scale Assessed Before and After Deep Brain Stimulation of the Ventral Tegmental Area
Authors: Cappon Davide Balos , Ryterska Agata , Akram Harith , Lagrata Susie , Cheema Sanjay , Hyam Jonathan , Zrinzo Ludvic , Matharu Manjit , Jahanshahi Marjan
Published: January 2021

Background: Cluster headache (CH) is a trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia (TAC) characterized by a highly disabling headache that negatively impacts quality of life and causes limitations in daily functioning as well as social functioning and family life. Since specific measures to assess the quality of life (QoL) in TACs are lacking, we recently developed and validated the cluster headache quality of life scale (CH-QoL). The sensitivity of CH-QoL to change after a medical intervention has not been evaluated yet.Methods: This study aimed to test the sensitivity to change of the CH-QoL in CH. Specifically our aim was to i) assess the sensitivity of CH-QoL to change before and following deep brain stimulation of the ventral tegmental area (VTA-DBS), ii) evaluate the relationship of changes on CH-QoL with changes in other generic measures of quality of life, as well as indices of mood and pain. Ten consecutive CH patients completed the CH-QoL and underwent neuropsychological assessment before and after VTA-DBS. The patients were evaluated on headache frequency, severity and load (HAL) as well as on tests of generic quality of life (Short Form-36 (SF-36)), mood (Beck Depression Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Rating Scale), and pain (McGill Pain Questionnaire, Headache Impact Test, Pain Behaviour Checklist). Results: The CH-QoL total score was significantly reduced after compared to before VTA-DBS. Changes in the CH-QoL total score correlated significantly and negatively with changes in HAL, the SF-36, and positively and significantly with depression and the evaluative domain on the McGill Pain Questionnaire.Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that changes after VTA-DBS in CH-QoL total scores are associated with the reduction of frequency, duration, and severity of headache attacks after surgery. Moreover, post VTA-DBS improvement in CH-QoL scores are associated with an amelioration in quality of life assessed with generic measures, a reduction of depressive symptoms, and evaluative pain experience after VTA-DBS. These results support the sensitivity to change of the CH-QoL and further demonstrate the validity and applicability of CH-QoL as a disease specific measure of quality of life for CH.
Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in Patients with Hematologic Malignancies in the Intensive Care unit: A Single-Center Cohort Study of 233 Cases in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chieh-Lung , Wang Sing-Ting , Cheng Wen-Chien , Chen Chih-Yu , Chen Wei-Cheng , Lin Yu-Chao , Wu Biing-Ru , Liao Wei-Chih
Published: January 2021

BackgroundPatients with a hematologic malignancies (HM) have one of the highest mortality rates among cancer patients admitted to the medical intensive care unit (ICU). The aim of this study was to identify outcomes and risk factors that predict the prognosis of critically ill patients with HM in the ICU.MethodsA retrospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary referral hospital in Taiwan over 40 months (January 1, 2017–April 30, 2020). All adult patients with HM who were admitted to medical ICU were enrolled. Clinical data upon hospital and ICU admission were collected. The predictors of ICU mortality were evaluated using a multivariate analysis.ResultsA total of 233 patients with HM met the inclusion criteria. The median age (SD) was 59.3 (15.1) years, and 76% of the HMs were classified as high-grade disease. The median (IQR) Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score at ICU admission was 11 (9–15); Simpliﬁed Acute Physiology Score II, 64 (51–80); and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, 28 (23–34). The most common reasons for ICU admission were acute respiratory failure (63.1%) and septic shock (19.7%). The ICU and hospital mortality rates were 54.1% and 67.8%, respectively. A multivariate analysis revealed that the initiation of renal replacement therapy in the ICU (odds ratio [OR], 3.88; 95% CI, 1.66–9.08) and SOFA score (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.03–1.31) were independently associated with ICU mortality.ConclusionsThe ICU and hospital outcomes of critically ill patients with HM are improving. Performance status, cancer status, invasive mechanical ventilation, severe neutropenia, and transplantation status were not identified as predictive factors of ICU outcome. Initiation of renal replacement therapy in the ICU and the SOFA score upon ICU admission were independently associated with ICU mortality. We suggest early and timely ICU admission of patients at risk of multiorgan failure.
Pivot burrowing of scarab beetle (Trypoxylus dichotomus) larva
Authors: Adachi Haruhiko , Ozawa Makoto , Yagi Satoshi , Seita Makoto , Kondo Shigeru
Published: January 2021

Scarab beetle larvae do not have appendages to shovel soil and their trunk is thick compared to their body length; hence, their movement through the soil is perplexing. Here, we found that the last larval instars of Trypoxylus dichotomus burrow in two different ways, depending on the hardness of the soil. If the soil is soft, the larvae keep their body in a straight line and use longitudinal expansion and contraction; if the soil is hard, they flex and rotate their body. It is thought that the larvae adapt to diverse soil conditions using two different excavation methods.
In vitro resorbability and granular characteristics of 3D-printed hydroxyapatite granules versus allograft, xenograft, and alloplast
Authors: Taecha-apaikun Kongkrit , Pisek Poonsak , Suwanprateeb Jintamai , Thammarakcharoen Faungchat , Arayatrakoollikit Uthaiwan , Angwarawong Thidarat , Kongsomboon Supaporn , Pisek Araya
Published: January 2021

BackgroundThree-dimensionally printed hydroxyapatite (3DP HA) was investigated in regards to its functional properties supporting bone regeneration and tooth movement. The material’s high porosity and nanocrystal structure were investigated in terms of degradability, wicking property, and granular agglomeration in order to identify its potential for use as bone graft in alveolar cleft applications. Materials and methodsCommercially available bovine xenograft (Bio-Oss), biphasic calcium phosphate alloplast (BoneCeramic), and two types of freeze-dried bone allograft granules (SureOss Plus and RegenOss) were employed as control samples for comparison. In vitro degradability was studied by submerging the samples in pH 7.4 buffered solution at 37 o C for 28 days and determining subsequent weight loss percentage. The wicking property and granular agglomeration were evaluated by putting the granules in contact with deionized water, whole blood, and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS).ResultSureOss Plus and RegenOss showed the greatest weight loss at 28 days (6.64 and 8.91%, respectively) followed by 3DP HA (2.82%), Bio-Oss (0.21%), and BoneCeramic (0.20%). In contrast, 3DP HA showed significantly greater wicking ability than other samples for all types of tested liquids. SureOss Plus exhibited the greatest granular agglomeration for all liquid types followed by 3DP HA and Bio-Oss, Regenoss, and BoneCeramic, respectively.Conclusion3DP HA was found to be a favorable candidate for bone grafting in alveolar cleft treatment. Its resorption ability and exceptionally high wicking ability would be beneficial in bone healing and tooth movement. In addition, its moderate granular agglomeration capacity would help in graft handling and manipulation.
Radial Extracorporeal Shock Wave Reduce Myogenic Contracture and Muscle Atrophy via inhibiting NF-κB/HIF-1α Signaling Pathway in Rabbit
Authors: Wang Feng , Li Wen , Zhou Yun , Huang Peng Peng
Published: January 2021

BackgroundRecent studies have shown that radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) modulates viability and gene expression of human skeletal muscle cells in vitro. However, the underlying biological effects and mechanisms of rESWT on muscle atrophy and myogenic contracture in animal mode have not yet been investigated.ObjectiveTo investigate the underlying biological effects and mechanisms of rESWT on myogenic contracture and muscle atrophy in a rabbit model of extending knee joint contracture.MethodsForty rabbits were randomly divided into eight groups. In group Control, the left knee joint was not fixed. In group I-4w, the left knee joint was only fixed for four weeks. In groups SR-1w, SR-2w, and SR-4w, the left knee joint was fixed for four weeks before the rabbits underwent one, two, and four weeks of self-recovery, respectively. In groups rESWT-1w, rESWT-2w, and rESWT-4w, the left knee joint was fixed for four weeks before the rabbits underwent one, two, and four weeks of rESWT, respectively. The degree of myogenic contracture was measured, the cross-sectional area and key protein levels for NF-κB/HIF-1α signaling pathway and myogenic regulatory factors of the rectus femoris were evaluated.ResultsDuring the recovery period, biological findings in this study showed that the levels of myogenic contracture and muscle atrophy were milder in group rESWT by compared with group SR at the same time point. Molecular biological analysis in the present study showed that MyoD protein levels in the group rESWT was significantly higher than those in the group SR, and importantly, phospho-NF-κB p65 and HIF-1α protein levels in the group rESWT were significantly lower than those in the group SR at the same time point.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that rESWT has the potential to reduce myogenic contracture and muscle atrophy after long-term immobilization in animal model. It is a possible mechanism that changing the low oxygen environment in skeletal muscle through rESWT may inhibit activation of NF-κB/HIF-1α signaling pathway, thereby enhancing the expression of myogenic regulatory factors.
Preoperative anxiety as predictor of clinical events following carotid surgery: a prospective observational study
Authors: Aspalter Manuela , Enzmann Florian K. , Hölzenbein Thomas J. , Hitzl Wolfgang , Primavesi Florian , Algayerova Lucia , Nierlich Patrick , Kartnig Christoph , Seitelberger Reinald , Linni Klaus
Published: January 2021

BackgroundPsychological factors like anxiety and depression are recognized to play a causal role in the development of cardiovascular disease and they may also influence outcome after vascular surgery procedures. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of anxiety and depression with postoperative outcome following elective carotid surgery.MethodsSingle centre prospective observational study of patients treated for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis at an academic vascular surgery centre. Preoperative anxiety and depression were evaluated using self-reporting questionnaires: Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S/-T) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A/-D). Postoperative morbidity and mortality were assessed with the primary composite endpoint of stroke, myocardial infarction (MI) and death. Standard reporting guidelines for carotid disease were applied.ResultsFrom 06/2012 to 11/2015, 393 patients underwent carotid endarterectomy CEA at our institution. Out of those 109 carotid reconstructions in 98 asymptomatic patients were available for analysis (76% male; median age: 71 years). Median scores of self-reporting questionnaires did not differ from published data of the general population (STAI-T, trait component, median: 36; IQR: 31-42.25; STAI-S, state component, median: 38; IQR: 32–43; HADS-A median: 6; IQR: 3–8; HADS-D median: 4; IQR: 2–7). Cardiovascular risk factors were similar in anxious and non-anxious patients. The composite endpoint of stroke, MI and death occurred significantly more often in patients presenting with a preoperative HADS-A score higher than 6 (95% CI: 7.4–12.1; p = .018). Additionally, the secondary endpoint of cranial nerve injuries was seen significantly more frequently in patients who presented with a higher preoperative STAI-T (p = .021) and STAI-S score (p = .049).ConclusionsThe present study indicates that preoperative anxiety is associated with the occurrence of intra- and postoperative neurological events in patients undergoing CEA. Patients who had a preoperative HADS-A score of 6 or less had a very low probability of experiencing these complications.
Challenges and Opportunities of India’s Micro Small Medium Enterprises in the New Era of Post COVID
Authors: Ranjan Rahul
Published: January 2021

This paper examines the possible changes from the new definition of Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Manufacturing and Services sector using NSS 73rd round data and Annual Survey of Industry (ASI). The paper further analyses the nature of registered/unregistered enterprises in MSMEs. Analysis reveals that 16.1 percent (3.2 million), 38 percent (16.6 million), and 31.2 percent (19.8 million) enterprises are registered in manufacturing, services, and whole economy respectively. It is worthy to note that share of unregistered enterprises in overall loan taken by the enterprises is only 2 percent, the remaining 98 percent of loan has been provided to registered enterprises. Registered enterprises easily access the loan from the formal channels while unregistered enterprises face problems in accessing loan from the formal channels. The regression result shows that the number of skilled workers, the firm’s registration, modernization, and environmental monitor variables have a positive impact on the MSMEs output value. The large enterprises need to make structural changes with focus on generating employment at a larger scale in order to take advantage of the recent trade war between China and other developing countries. There is a simultaneous scope to promote larger enterprises with MSMEs.
The Prevalence of Human Cytomegalovirus Infection in Children Leukemia by Chip Digital PCR
Authors: Wang Wen-Jun , Feng Miao , He Feng , Song Juan , Song Qin-Qin , Dong Xia , Shi Bing-Tian , Chen Ping , Yao Hai-Lan , Han Jun
Published: January 2021

Background

To establish a method for detecting HCMV viral load to guide clinical treatment by chip digital PCR (cdPCR).
Methods

5.67×106TCID50/ml of HCMV AD169 was serially diluted to evaluate sensitive of cdPCR, HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, EBV, HHV-6 and HHV-7 were used to evaluate the specificity of HCMV cdPCR. HCMV infection were analyzed in 110 children leukemia whole blood by RT-qPCR and cdPCR.
Results

The sensitive of HCMV cdPCR was up to 71 ± 32 copies/ml, which is higher than that of RT-qPCR. HCMV cdPCR did not cross react with other herpesviruses. The cdPCR effectively detected 7 HCMV positive samples, making the laboratory diagnosis rate of HCMV increased by 6.36% (7/110) for children leukemia patients. And the prevalence of HCMV infection increased from 28.18–34.54% in 110 children leukemia patients by cdPCR.
Conclusion

cdPCR is more sensitive to detect viral load than RT-qPCR. The cdPCR may be used to evaluate relationship between viral load and progression of HCMV infection in patients.
An innovative ovine model of severe cardiopulmonary failure supported by veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Heinsar Silver , Jung Jae-Seung , Colombo Sebastiano Maria , Rozencwajg Sacha , Wildi Karin , Sato Kei , Ainola Carmen , Wang Xiaomeng , Abbate Gabriella , Sato Noriko , Dyer Wayne Bruce , Livingstone Samantha Annie , Pimenta Leticia Pretti , Bartnikowski Nicole , Bouquet Mahe Jeannine Patricia , Passmore Margaret , Vidal Bruno , Palmieri Chiara , Reid Janice D , Haqqani Haris M , McGuire Daniel , Wood Emily Susan , Rätsep Indrek , Lorusso Roberto , Suen Jacky Y , Bassi Gianluigi Li , Fraser John F
Published: January 2021

Background

Refractory cardiogenic shock (CS), frequently complicated by pulmonary failure, often requires veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) to sustain end-organ perfusion. Currently available animal models, such as the coronary ligation model, result in highly variable injury profiles and unacceptably high levels of subsequent ventricular fibrillation, cardiac arrest, and death. As the use of ECMO increases, there is a growing need for a clinically relevant, robust, and titratable model of severe cardiopulmonary failure supported by VA-ECMO.
Methods

Six sheep (60 ± 6 kg) were anaesthetized, intubated and mechanically ventilated. VA-ECMO was initially carried out at a flow rate of 1 L/min. CS was induced through 1-mL left ventricle myocardial injections of 96% ethanol and confirmed when systolic blood pressure (SBP) was < 90 mmHg and lactate > 4 mmol/L. Then, pulmonary failure was confirmed when PaO2 was < 60 mmHg through substantial decrease in the ventilatory support. Thereafter, VA-ECMO support was increased to obtain a mean arterial pressure of 65 mmHg. Echocardiography and cardiac Troponin I (cTnI) analysis were performed at baseline, upon CS confirmation, establishment of pulmonary failure and hourly thereafter. After 5h, the animals were euthanised and the heart collected for histological and macroscopic assessment.
Results

Ethanol (58 ± 23 mL) rapidly induced CS in all animals. cTnI levels increased near 5000-fold. SBP decreased from 97 ± 18 mmHg at baseline to 67 ± 14 mmHg upon CS, and lactate from 1.4 ± 0.8 to 4.7 ± 0.9 mmol/L, respectively. Echocardiography studies demonstrated a decrease in the left ventricular fractional area change from 34 ± 9% upon baseline to 16 ± 7% after CS. Analysis of myocardial tissue samples corroborated extensive cellular necrosis and inflammatory infiltrates.
Conclusions

We present a novel titratable model of severe cardiopulmonary failure in animal on VA-ECMO, through intramyocardial ethanol injections and reduction in ventilatory support. This model could be essential to further characterize left-sided heart failure and develop future treatments.
Suppressing ERK Pathway Impairs Glycochenodeoxycholate-Mediated Survival and Drug-Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Li Bingxin , Zhou Maojun , Wang Jue , Xu Hongjuan , Yang Manyi
Published: January 2021

Background This research aims to examine the mechanism of glycochenodeoxycholate (GCDA)-mediated survival and drug-resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCC). Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) were extensively expressed in liver cancer cells.Methods GCDA-induced survival of human liver carcinoma cells and chemoresistance was determined by CCK8 and flow cytometry, respectively. Functional of ERK1/2 and interaction of Bcl-2 family members was determined in western blot and immunofluorescence.Results Silencing ERK1/2 by RNA interference suppressed GCDA-stimulated survival and promoted apoptosis. Furthermore, phosphorylation of endogenous ERK1/2 could be potently stimulated by GCDA in combination with enhanced chemoresistance in QGY-7703 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. And such GCDA-mediated proliferation and chemoresistance could be impaired by PD98059, who acts as an inhibitor to block phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Mechanistically, PD98059 was able to potently suppress GCDA-stimulated nuclear aggregation of ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2, up-regulation of pro-survival protein Mcl-1 and decrease of pro-apoptotic protein Bim.Conclusions Our work verified the function of ERK1/2 in GCDA-induced chemoresistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Disruption of ERK1/2 by blocking phosphorylation or nuclear translocation may put forward new methods for treating of GCDA-related proliferation and drug-resistance in liver cancer.
Impact of Doxycycline on COVID-19 Patients with Risk Factors: DYNAMIC, a Multi-Centre, Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Trial
Authors: Poinas Alexandra , Boutoille David , Vrignaud Florence , Nguyen Jean-Michel , Bonnet Fabrice , Rat Cédric , Garcia Gilles , Dompmartin Anne , Leccia Marie-Thérèse , Piroth Lionel , Maubec Eve , Gandon Pierre , Jobert Alexandra , Boinet Soizic , Cassecuel Julie , Flet Laurent , Khammari Amir , Dréno Brigitte
Published: January 2021

Background: The DYNAMIC study is based on three properties of tetracyclines. (1) Tetracyclines are known to chelate zinc from matrix metalloproteinases. It is possible their chelating activity may help inhibit COVID-19 infection by limiting its ability to replicate in the host. (2) As seen with dengue virus, tetracyclines may also be able to inhibit the replication of positive polarity single-stranded RNA viruses, such as COVID-19. (3) Tetracyclines are also modulators of innate immunity (anti-inflammatory activity), a property that has been used to treat inflammatory skin diseases for many years. They could therefore participate in limiting the cytokine storm induced by COVID-19. Moreover, the lipophilic nature of tetracyclines and their strong pulmonary penetration could allow them to inhibit viral replication at this level. Among the tetracyclines, doxycycline has three advantages: its long safety history (side effects are uncommon with no notable risks), its short treatment duration and its low cost.Methods: The trial will involve 330 patients who are positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection and have one or more risk factors for worsening the disease. These patients will be included as outpatients for early treatment of illness. For logistical reasons and in order to be able to standardise the study as much as possible, recruitment will take place in 6 hospital departments covering the whole of France. For 14 days they will be given either 200mg of doxycycline a day or placebo. Our hypothesis is a considerable reduction in the number of patients hospitalised due to COVID-19 thanks to the treatment of doxycycline.Discussion: This study could have an impact on the overcrowding of patients with COVID-19 at the hospital which is one of the major world-wide problems of this pandemic. This treatment would therefore contribute to supporting the deconfinement strategy by blocking the viral infection early and reducing the infectious period.Trial Registration: On ClinicalTrials.gov, registration number NCT04371952, first published on 30 April 2020.
Automatic Segmentation of Coronary Lumen and External Elastic Membrane in Intravascular Ultrasound Images Using 8-layer U-Net
Authors: Dong Liang , Jiang Wenbing , Lu Wei , Jiang Jun , Zhao Ya , Song Xiangfen , Leng Xiaochang , Zhao Hang , Wang Jian’an , Li Changling , Xiang Jianping
Published: January 2021

Background: Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is the golden standard in accessing the coronary lesions, stenosis, and atherosclerosis plaques. In this paper, a fully-automatic approach by an 8-layer U-Net is developed to segment the coronary artery lumen and the area bounded by external elastic membrane (EEM), i.e. cross section area (EEM-CSA). The database comprises of single-vendor and single-frequency IVUS data. Particularly, the proposed data augmentation of MeshGrid combined with flip and rotation operations is implemented, improving the model performance without pre- or post-processing of the raw IVUS images.Results: The mean intersection of union (MIoU) of 0.937 and 0.804 for the lumen and EEM-CSA respectively were achieved, which exceeded the manual labeling accuracy of the clinician. Conclusion: The accuracy shown by the proposed method is sufficient for subsequent reconstruction of 3D IVUS images, which is essential for doctors’ diagnosis in the tissue characterization of coronary artery walls and plaque compositions, qualitatively and quantitatively.
Association of spectroscopically determined leaf nutrition related traits and breeding selection in Sassafras tzumu
Authors: Liu Jun , Sun Yang , Liu Wenjian , Tan Zifeng , Jiang Jingmin , Li Yanjie
Published: January 2021

Background: Plant traits related to nutrition have an influential role on tree growth, tree production and nutrient cycling. Therefore, the breeding program should consider the genetics of the traits. However, the measurement methods could seriously affect the progress of breeding selection program. In this study, we tested the ability of spectroscopy to quantify the specific leaf nutrition traits including Anthocyanins (ANTH), flavonoids (FLAV) and Nitrogen balance index (NBI), and estimated the genetic variation of these leaf traits based on the spectroscopic predicted data. Live fresh leaves of Sassafras tzumu were selected for spectral collection, after which concentrations of ANTH, FLAV and NBI were analyzed by standard analytical methods. Partial least squares regression (PLSR), five spectra pre-processing methods, and four variable selection algorisms were conducted for the optimal prediction model selection. Each trait model was simulated 200 times for error estimation.
Results: The Standard Normal Variate (SNV) to the ANTH model and 1st derivatives to the FLAV and NBI models, combined with significant Multivariate Correlation (sMC) algorithm variable selection are finally regarded as the best performance model. The ANTH model produced the highest accuracy of prediction with a mean R2 of 0.72 and mean RMSE of 0.10 %, followed by FLAV and NBI model (mean R2 =0.58, mean RMSE = 0.11 % and mean R2 =0.44, mean RMSE = 0.04 %). High heritability was found of ANTH FLAV and NBI with h2 of 0.78, 0.58 and 0.61 respectively. It shows that it is benefitting and possible of breeding selection for the improvement of leaf nutrition traits.
Conclusions: Spectroscopy can successfully characterize the leaf nutrition traits in living tree leaves and the ability to simultaneous multiple plant traits provides a promising and high-throughput tool for the quick analysis of large size samples and serves for genetic breeding program.