bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical-Laboratory Effectiveness of Immune-Replacement Therapy of Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
Authors: Nikolaeva I. V. , Mikhailova O. S. , Tkacheva S. V. , Isaeva G. Sh. , Reshetnikova I. D. , Ziatdinov V. B. , Aleshkin V. A. , Lyutov A. G.
Published: February 2021

Currently, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) remains the most common natural focal disease of viral etiology in the Russian Federation. Effective antiviral drugs have not yet been developed. Pathogenetic and symptomatic drugs are mainly used in the treatment of HFRS.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical and laboratory effectiveness of intravenous gabriglobin in the treatment of moderate forms of HFRS.

Materials and methods. The study included 22 patients with a diagnosis “HFRS of moderate severity” in the febrile stage of the disease. In the febrile period of HFRS, patients of the main group (n=10) were given gabriglobin via intravenous route at a dose of 0.1 g/kg per day along with pathogenetic therapy. The course of treatment was 2–3 infusions. The control group (n=12) received only pathogenetic therapy.

Results and conclusions. As a result of the studies, the clinical and laboratory efficacy of intravenous administration of gabriglobin in the treatment of patients with moderate-grade HFRS was revealed, which was manifested by a decrease in the duration of the febrile period by 2.1 days, the severity of oliguria and a decrease in the duration of thrombocytopenia by 3.5 days compared with the group of patients receiving only pathogenetic therapy.
Ritmos biológicos e fotoperíodo em peixes
Authors: Veras G. C. , Murgas L. D.S. , Zangeronimo M. G. , Oliveira M. M. , Rosa P. V. , Felizardo V. O.
Published: February 2021

Os ritmos biológicos são definidos como qualquer evento que se repete de maneira regular em um organismo, sendo um evento cíclico caracterizado por um ambiente do qual o animal pode se adaptar. Os peixes, quando submetidos ao ciclo diário de luz/escuro do fotoperíodo demonstram um padrão de atividade locomotora que os podem classificar como diurnos, noturnos e crepusculares. Este ciclo de luz/escuro tem sido considerado um dos mais importantes fatores ambientais sincronizadores do ritmo biológico, sendo o fator chave para sincronização do ritmo de atividade em peixes. O ciclo alimentar também atua como um potente sincronizador sobre o controle da atividade locomotora. Este é demonstrado através da atividade alimentar antecipatória como ritmo biológico, isto é, a capacidade em que os peixes conseguem prever com habilidade e antecipar um recorrente evento que é a alimentação. Estas respostas antecipatórias à alimentação provavelmente funcionam sob um controle endógeno, onde os peixes precisam otimizar a captura do alimento, assim como os processos digestivos e metabólicos, para poder concentrar a ingestão de alimento em um menor intervalo de tempo, melhorando, portanto, a utilização dos nutrientes. O controle do relógio biológico em peixes é considerado como um multifotorreceptor e sistema multioscilador. A existência de um oscilador circadiano tem sido sugerida através da pineal, retina e o cérebro, estando estas estruturas envolvidas na transdução do sinal fótico para estabelecer um rítmo circadiano em peixes. O acoplamento entre essas estruturas pode variar em cada indivíduo de acordo com as condições fisiológicas e ambientais, resultando em uma plasticidade no sistema circadiano de peixes teleósteos. A manipulação do fotoperíodo com objetivo de aprimorar o crescimento dos peixes tem se tornado cada vez mais frequente dentro da produção de várias espécies de interesse comercial. O fotoperíodo, dentre outros fatores ambientais, é o que apresenta maior influência sobre o relógio biológico dos peixes ao afetar o ganho de peso, a ingestão de alimento, a eficiência alimentar, o gasto de energia, a atividade locomotora, a reprodução, bem como outros parâmetros fisiológicos relacionados ao estresse. Portanto, o controle e o conhecimento fisiológico deste ritmo biológico torna-se fundamental para otimização da produção de peixes.
Tide-dominated deltas responding to high-frequency sea-level changes, Pre-Messinian Rifian Corridor, Morocco
Authors: Beelen Daan , Wood Lesli , Zaghloul Mohamed Najib , Haissen Faouziya , Arts Michiel , Ouahbi Ismail , Redouane Meryem , Cardona Sebastian
Published: February 2021

The Rifian Corridor was an ancient sea strait that connected the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean during the Miocene. Key outcrop exposures of this corridor's sedimentary fill are exposed at the Ben Allou, El Adergha, and Driouate localities, in the Fez–Meknes region, Morocco. These display cyclic successions that formed immediately before the disappearance of the Rifian Corridor, and the associated isolation and desiccation of the Mediterranean Sea. Sedimentary cycles at Ben Allou consist of: facies 1, Organic-matter-bearing blue claystones; facies 2, gray marlstones intercalated with turbidites; and facies 3, yellow-brown, coarse-grained calcarenites. Based on their coarse grain size, presence of reactivation surfaces, bidirectional current structures, and mud drapes as well as microfossil, macrofossil and trace fossil assemblages, we interpret the calcarenites (facies 3) as prograding, strait-adjacent tide-dominated deltas transitioning from large subtidal compound dunes to intertidal sand sheets that are composed mostly of authigenic carbonate sediment. The two fine-grained facies were deposited in deeper prodelta (facies 2) and shelfal (facies 1) environments, as shown by our combined sedimentological and paleontological evidence. Cross-sectional channel geometries provide a means for reconstructing the delta's paleo–tidal range, suggesting that it was macrotidal, and likely amplified by the paleogeometry of the Southern Rifian Corridor, to at least 4.2 m. The cyclic succession of corridor fill exposed here likely is the result of three, roughly 70 m fluctuations of eustatic rise and subsequent fall, possibly linked to ∼ 100,000-year glacial–interglacial climate fluctuations. Broadly similar, contemporaneous sedimentary successions from the outcrop at El Adergha, 40 km east of Ben Allou, show that these sea-level variations affected a wide range of the Corridor, while rocks at the locality of Driouate, 9 km south of Ben Allou, show evidence for lagoonal environments on the landward side of the corridor, which were subject to periodic marine regressions and floodings. These results are reinterpretations of previous work on these sediments, with implications for depositional processes in the Rifian Corridor, Miocene paleoclimate, and the Messinian salinity crisis.
STRATEGY SURVIVELY IN THE MIDDLE OF UNCERTAINITY PANDEMI COVID-19 MARITIME SECTOR BUSINESS
Authors: Prasutiyon Hadi , Gurning R.O Saut
Published: February 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic crisis of 2020, different from previous crisis / disasters, given the uncertainty, no one can predict or look ahead, when the end of this crisis is over. Global impact that touches almost all sectors and is directly related personally and family. Fast-moving events, we talk day by day, with a situation that is changing and unprecedented. This requires us to make policies, responses and rapid mitigation of impacts on shared covid-19. Management policies must reach the infrastructure, work and engagement sectors required to be fast and appropriate. In dealing with such situations, it is necessary to apply crisis management, so that the main things that must be prioritized can be found. The government is expected to provide fiscal incentives, especially to national companies, in the form of tax breaks, small loans, or other assistance. So that the company can survive to avoid layoffs and be able to rise again after going through this crisis.
Analysis Of Load Variations On ST 60 Steel Using Vickers Method
Authors: Hidayat Hidayat
Published: February 2021

The use of metal in the industrial world, especially ST60 Steel, is a very vital need, this can be seen from the increasing number of machine or equipment components or construction parts made of steel. Hardness is one of the mechanical properties that is often used as a guide in selecting materials for an equipment component. To find out the hardness price of a material, various testing methods can be used, including the Vickers method, which is tested by applying a force to the indented diamond pyramid against the material for which the hardness value is determined. The amount of hardness value is determined by the magnitude of the loading force divided by the area of indentation. In this study, what was investigated was the effect of force on the hardness of the Vickers method. The results showed that the load variation had little effect on the results of the Vickers hardness value, especially for high loads (100 Kgf). The average hardness value for the mild steel being tested is 163 HV and 168 HV, the highest hardness value is 174 HV and the lowest hardness value is 156 HV, so that a tolerance of ± 10 HV commonly used in the Vickers test is sufficient.Keywords: Hardness, ST 60 Steel , Loading Variations, Vickers Test
Competing risk between in-hospital mortality and recovery: An application of DeepHit on COVID-19 clinical data
Authors: M.K. Lintu , Kamath Asha
Published: February 2021

BackgroundUnexplained pneumonia appeared in Wuhan was soon determined to be a novel coronavirus disease, referred to as COVID-19. On March 11, 2020, WHO characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic. A plethora of studies on this pandemic is being carried out using various statistical and mathematical models. Though most of them are focusing on building predictive models, concentrating on the length of hospital stay can improve decision making and treatment plans. While modeling the length of stay, possible outcomes observed are either discharge or mortality.ObjectiveThe study aimed to analyse the survival data of COVID-19 patients with the competing risk methodology.MethodologyThe performance DeepHit, a deep learning-based competing risk model is compared with Fine-Gray, a traditional statistical model using a time-dependent concordance index. ResultsThe deep learning-based competing risk model outperformed the statistical model in terms of discriminative power.ConclusionModeling the duration of recovery and death provides valuable information for health officials to design proper strategies during the outbreak. These outcomes should be considered as competing events to model the data adequately.
Effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors on the levels of serum asprosin in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jiang Aijun , Feng Zhanrong , Yuan Lu , Zhang Ying , Li Qian , She Yuqing
Published: February 2021

Background: Asprosin, a novel adipokine that raises glucose levels and stimulates appetite, has been proved to be pathologically increased in populations predisposed to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. The mechanisms of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for hypoglycemic effect and cardiovascular protection have not been fully clarified. Therefore, we conducted this study to assess change in the levels of serum asprosin after treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with newly diagnosed T2DM.Methods: This study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 29 participants with newly diagnosed T2DM with body mass index (BMI)≥23.0 kg/m² and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels of 58~85 mmol/mol (7.5%~10%) were randomized to SGLT2 inhibitors dapagliflozin 10 mg/d (n=19) or placebo (n=10) treatment for 24 weeks. We analyzed asprosin concentrations by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Besides, body weight, BMI, HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and lipid levels were measured at baseline and 24 weeks. Results: At 24 weeks, participants with SGLT2 inhibitors treatment exhibited lower levels of serum asprosin (22.87 vs 45.06 ng/ml in the placebo group; P<0.001) after adjusting for baseline values. The levels of body weight, BMI, HbA1c, FPG, and triglyceride (TG) were decreased, while high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) was increased after SGLT2 inhibitors dapagliflozin treatment compared with placebo (P< 0.05 for all). Low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol (TC) levels were unchanged in the SGLT2 inhibitors group and placebo group. No statistical correlation was found between the levels of serum asprosin and body weight, BMI, HbA1c, FPG, and lipid levels during the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin treatment.Conclusions: These findings indicated that SGLT2 inhibitors can lower serum asprosin levels and improve glucolipid and weight in patients with newly diagnosed T2DM, which may benefit the cardiovascular system.Trial registration: CTR20131268 Registered 20 March 2014 CTR20150102 Registered 03 March 2015 http://www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn/clinicaltrials.searchlistdetail.dhtml
Depicting developing trend and core knowledge of hip fracture research: a bibliometric and visualized analysis
Authors: Peng Guan Rong , Guan Zhen Hua , Hou Yun Fei , Gao Jia Xiang , Rao Wen Qun , Yuan Xian Yun , Guo Jiu Sheng , Huang Xiao Hua , Zhong Zhangrong , Lin Jian Hao
Published: February 2021

Background: Hip fracture is common and carries high morbidity and mortality; thus, it has become a vital concern. We aim to analyse the present status, worldwide trends in hip fracture, and state of clinical research.Methods: Publications from 2000 to 2019 were retrieved from the Web of Science database and analysed using a bibliometric methodology. VOSviewer software was utilised for analysis.Results: In total, 6,139 publications were included, and publications increased annually from 152 in 2000 to 592 in 2019. U.S. researchers have produced the most publications, the highest H-index, and the greatest number of citations. Osteoporosis International has published the most papers on the topic. Leading researchers, contributing institutions, their cooperative relationships, and scientific masterpieces have been identified. The publications can be divided into five clusters: "mortality", "surgical management", “rehabilitation”, “osteoporosis” and "epidemiology". A clear developing trend was described, which began with fracture epidemiology and prevention, transitioned to perioperative management, orthogeriatric care and patient safety, and then to functional recovery, disease burden, and national audits in recent times.Conclusions: Hip fractures result in conditions that extend far beyond orthopaedics concerning epidemiology and preventive medicine, internal medicine and endocrinology, as well as critical care and gerontology. Interest, research, and publications are on the rise.
Curcumin and its analog alleviate diabetes-induced damages by regulating inflammation and oxidative stress in brain of diabetic rats​
Authors: Miao Chengfeng , Chen Hanbin , Li Yulian , Guo Ying , Xu Feifei , Chen Qi , Zhang Yanyan , Hu Mengjun , Chen Guorong
Published: February 2021

Background: Diabetic encephalopathy is a severe diabetes complication with cognitive dysfunction and neuropsychiatric disability. The mechanisms underlying diabetic encephalopathy is believed to be relevant with oxidative stress, vascular amylin deposition, immune receptors, inflammation, etc. This study wanted to evaluate the ability of curcumin and its analog A13 to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation in diabetes-induced damages in brain. Methods: Sixty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups: normal control (NC) group, diabetes mellitus (DM) group, curcumin-treated diabetes mellitus (CUR) group, high dose of A13-treated diabetes mellitus (HA) group, low dose of A13-treated diabetes mellitus (LA) group. Activation of the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB p65) pathway was detected by RT-qPCR, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and Western blot; oxidative stress was detected by biochemical detection kit; brain tissue sections were stained with hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining and Myelin staining. Results: RT-qPCR, IHC staining and Western blot showed that curcumin and A13 treatment could inhibit the NF-κB p65 pathway. Curcumin and A13 increased the activity of superoxide dismutase and decreased the malondialdehyde level in the brain of diabetic rats. Furthermore, HE staining and Myelin staining demonstrated that the histological lesions of the brain in diabetic rats could be significantly ameliorated by curcumin and A13.Conclusion: Curcumin analog A13 could alleviate the damages in the brain of diabetes rats by regulating the pathways of inflammation and oxidative stress. A13 may be a new potential therapeutic agent for diabetic encephalopathy.
GCKR Common functional polymorphisms are associated with metabolic syndrome and its components: a 10-year retrospective cohort study in Iranian adults
Authors: Zahedi Asiyeh Sadat , Akbarzadeh Mahdi , Sedaghati-khayat Bahareh , Seyedhamzehzadeh Atefeh , Daneshpour Maryam S
Published: February 2021

Background: Previous studies reported that common functional variants (rs780093, rs780094, and rs1260326) in the glucokinase regulator gene (GCKR) were associated with metabolic syndrome despite the simultaneous association with the favorable and unfavorable metabolic syndrome components. We decided to evaluate these findings in a cohort study with a large sample size of Iranian adult subjects, to our knowledge for the first time. We investigated the association of the GCKR variants with incident MetS in mean follow-up times for nearly ten years.Methods: Analysis of this retrospective cohort study was performed among 5666 participants of the Tehran Cardiometabolic Genetics Study (TCGS) at 19-88 years at baseline. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the metabolic syndrome (JIS criteria) association and its components with rs780093, rs780094, and rs1260326 in an additive genetic model. Cox regression was carried out to peruse variants' association with the incidence of metabolic syndrome in the TCGS cohort study.Results: In the current study, we have consistently replicated the association of the GCKR SNPs with higher triglyceride and lower fasting blood sugar levels (p<0.05) in Iranian adults. The CT genotype of the variants was associated with lower HDL-C levels. The proportional Cox adjusted model regression resulted that TT carriers of rs780094, rs780093, and rs1260326 were associated with 20%, 23%, and 21% excess risk metabolic syndrome incidence, respectively (p<0.05).Conclusions: Elevated triglyceride levels had the strongest association with GCKR selected variants among the metabolic syndrome components. Despite the association of these variants with decreased fasting blood sugar levels, T alleles of the variants were associated with metabolic syndrome incidence; so whether individuals are T allele carriers of the common functional variants, they have a risk factor for the future incidence of metabolic syndrome.
Susceptibility to smoking and associated factors among the youth in central and eastern European countries.
Authors: Polanska Kinga , Znyk Malgorzata , Kaleta Dorota
Published: February 2021

Background

Tobacco use among young people still remains a major public health problem. The aim of this study was to examine the association between a variety of factors and susceptibility to smoking initiation and experimentation among the youth from central and eastern European countries.
Methods

The data used in the current analysis, focusing on current non-smokers, is available from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey, which was performed in five countries (the Czech Republic (2016), n = 3191; Slovakia (2016), n = 3178; Slovenia (2017), n = 2255; Romania (2017), n = 4681; Lithuania (2018), n = 2260).
Results

Among the never smokers, nearly a quarter of the students were susceptible to smoking in 4 of 5 countries (16% of those susceptible to smoking were identified in Romania). Moreover, 60% of the students in the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia, and about 50% of the students in Lithuania and Romania were found to be vulnerable to smoking experimentation (an analysis among ever smokers). The multiple regression models provided results that are consistent among all the examined countries, with the following factors identified as significant correlates of smoking initiation and experimentation: being girls, having more money available for own expenses, experiencing exposure to passive smoking in public places, as well as indicating peer smoking. Moreover, adolescents who have declared lack of antismoking education and knowledge on harmful effects of passive smoking, those who saw people using tobacco on TV, in videos or in movies as well as advertising of tobacco products at point of sales were susceptible to smoking. Finally, the students who shared an opinion that smoking helped people feel more comfortable at celebrations, parties or in other social gatherings were at higher risk of smoking susceptibility.
Conclusions

A high proportion of the youth from central and eastern European countries is susceptible to smoking. Personal and social factors and those related to educational and policy issues were strongly and consistently correlated with smoking susceptibility. These factors should be considered when designing and implementing anti-smoking activities among young people.
Controlled activation of cortical astrocytes can reverse neuropathic chronic pain
Authors: Takeda Ikuko , Yoshihara Kohei , Cheung Dennis , Agetsuma Masakazu , Tsuda Makoto , Eto Kei , Moorhouse Andrew , Nabekura Junichi
Published: February 2021

Chronic pain is a major public health problem that currently lacks effective treatment options. Here, we report a novel combination therapy that can effectively reverse chronic pain induced by nerve injury in mice. By combing transient nerve block to inhibit noxious afferent input from injured peripheral nerves, with transient concurrent activation of astrocytes in the somatosensory cortex (S1) by either transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) or via the chemogenetic DREADD system, we could reverse allodynia previously established by partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSL). Activation of astrocytes initiated spine plasticity to reduce synapses formed shortly after PSL. The cure from allodynia persisted long after ceasing active treatment. Thus, our study represents the first report of a robust, readily translatable approach for treating chronic pain that capitalizes on the causative interplay between noxious afferents, sensitized central neuronal circuits and astrocytic-activation induced plasticity.
Direct Comparisons of Efficacy and Safety Between Actinomycin-D and Methotrexate in Women With Low-Risk Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hao Jiatao , Zhou Weihua , Zhang Mengzhao , Yu Hui , Zhang Taohong , Xue Yan , An Ruifang
Published: February 2021

Background: Actinomycin-D (Act-D) and Methotrexate (MTX) are both effective first-line agents for low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (LRGTN) with no consensus regarding which is more effective or less toxic. The primary objective of this meta-analysis is to compare Act-D with MTX in the treatment of LRGTN.Methods: We systematically searched electronic databases, conferences abstracts and trial registries for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and high-quality non-randamized controlled trials (non-RCTs), comparing Act-D with MTX for patients with LRGTN. Studies were full-text screened for quality assessment and data extraction. Eligible studies must have reported complete remission rate. A fixed-effects meta-analysis was conducted to quantify the efficacy and safety of Act-D and MTX on odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs), respectively.Results: A total of 8 RCTs and 9 non-RCTs (1674 patients) were included. In terms of efficacy, Act-D is superior to MTX in complete remission (OR 2.15, 95%CI 1.70 to 2.73). In the stratified analysis, patients from RCTs and non-RCTs both had a better CR from Act-D-based regimen (RCTs: OR 2.17, 95%CI 1.49 to 3.16; non-RCTs: OR 2.14, 95%CI 1.57 to 2.92). In terms of safety, patients receiving Act-D had higher risks of suffering nausea (OR 2.35, 95%CI 1.68 to 3.27), vomiting (OR 2.40, 95%CI 1.63 to 3.54), and alopecia (OR 2.76, 95%CI 1.60 to 4.75). Notably, liver toxicity (OR 0.38, 95%CI 0.19 to 0.76) was the only one that was conformed to have a higher risk for patients receiving MTX. In addition, the pooled results showed no significant difference of anaemia, leucocytopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopnia, constipation, diarrhea, anorexia, and fatigue between Act-D and MTX.Conclusions: Our meta-analysis suggests that Act-D had better efficacy profile in general, and MTX had less toxicities in LRGTN. Future clinical trials should be better orchestrated to provide more valid data on efficacy and toxicity.
A Super-Potent Tetramerized ACE2 Protein Displays Enhanced Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 Virus Infection
Authors: Miller Ami , Leach Adam , Thomas Jemima , Bentley Emma , Mattiuzzo Giada , John Lijo , Mirazimi Ali , Harris Gemma , Gamage Nadisha Nadisha , Carr Stephen , Ali Hanif , Montfort Rob Van , Rabbitts Terence , McAndrew Craig
Published: February 2021

Approaches are needed for therapy of the severe acute respiratory syndrome from SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19). Interfering with the interaction of viral antigens with the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor is a promising strategy by blocking the infection of the coronaviruses into human cells. We have implemented a novel protein engineering technology to produce a super-potent tetravalent form of ACE2, coupled to the human immunoglobulin g1 Fc region, using a self-assembling, tetramerization domain from p53 protein. This high molecular weight Quad protein (ACE2-Fc-TD) retains binding to the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding spike protein and can form a complex with the spike protein plus anti-viral antibodies. The ACE2-Fc-TD acts as a powerful decoy protein that out-performs soluble monomeric and dimeric ACE2 proteins and blocks both SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus and SARS-CoV-2 virus infection with greatly enhanced efficacy. The ACE2 tetrameric protein complex promise to be important for development as decoy therapeutic proteins against COVID-19. In contrast to monoclonal antibodies, ACE2 decoy is unlikely to be affected by mutations in SARS-CoV-2 that are beginning to appear in variant forms. In addition, ACE2 multimeric proteins will be available as therapeutic proteins should new coronaviruses appear in the future because these are likely to interact with ACE2 receptor.
Cereal Mycotoxins Contamination and Associated Risk Factors: A Consideration of Lringa Municipality in Tanzania.
Authors: Rajabu Rahma , Chilipweli Peter , Mang'ara Revocatus
Published: February 2021

Background: Mycotoxins have various serious health effects when consumed by humans and animals including, acute aflatoxicosis when consumed in high levels. Chronic exposure to low levels of contamination in crops increases liver cancer risk and can suppress the immune system, particularly for populations that test positive for the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Also when contaminated foods are consumed by young children can lead to stunting and growth impairment.Methods: A cross-sectional study design was carried out at one-time point .A total of 296 participants were enrolled. Surveys were conducted to determine risk factors for mycotoxin contamination in cereal in Iringa municipality. The study involved 4 wards namely Kwakilosa, Mlandege, Kihesa and Ruaha, in which 2 streets were selected from each ward where a minimum of 25 respondents were selected in each street by using quota and convenience sampling techniques. A questionnaire was administered to assess community‟s level of knowledge on mycotoxin contamination in cereals. A checklist was used to explore the conditions and facilities used store cereal,Results: Majority of respondents 71(36.2%) their age ranged 29-39 years, few being above 61 making up 3.6%. Also 87.2% did not have knowledge on mycotoxin contamination in cereals, while only 12.8% had knowledge on mycotoxin contamination in cereals which showed that 56.6% of the storage rooms were not properly ventilated, with proper ventilation were 43.4% of the total storage rooms. The study also revealed that majority 67.1% placed cereals in rooms with no ceilings, while also 60.8% leaned their cereal bags directly against the wall without leaving space contributing to favorable conditions for fungal growth as it increases the likelihood of cereal bags to absorb moisture from the wall, 86.7% cleaned their packaging material before use while only 46.9% and 44.8% cleaned their rooms and milling machines before storage or processing respectively. Majority 80.4% used woven sacks while 22.4% and 46.9% had pallets and tarpaulin respectively.Conclusion: Majority of respondents 171 individuals equivalent to 87.2% did not have knowledge on mycotoxin contamination in cereals, while only 25 individuals equivalent to 12.8% had knowledge on mycotoxin contamination in cereals. While the storage conditions and facilities used, showed that majority of individuals 111(77.6%) piled up bags of cereals on bare floors (no pallets) and 87(60.8%) leaned them directly against the walls with majority of them 96(67.1%) placed under roofs with no ceiling.
First Trimester Pregnancy Outcomes in a Large ART Center From the Lombardy County (Italy) During the Peak COVID-19 Pandemic.
Authors: Levi-Setti Paolo Emanuele , Cirillo Federico , Immediata Valentina , Morenghi Emanuela , Canevisio Valentina , Ronchetti Camilla , Baggiani Annamaria , Albani Elena , Patrizio Pasquale
Published: February 2021

This study evaluates if the pandemic has influenced ART outcome in an asymptomatic infertile population treated at one of the major COVID-19 epicenters during the weeks immediately preceding the lockdown. All ART procedures during two time periods were used for comparison: November 1st, 2018 to February 28th, 2019 (non COVID-19 risk) and November 1st, 2019 to February 29th, 2020 (COVID-19 risk). We analyzed 1,749 fresh cycles (883 non COVID-19 risk and 866 COVID- 19 risk), 1,166 embryo and 63 oocytes warming cycles (538 and 37 during non COVID and 628 and 26 during COVID-19 risk respectively). Clinical pregnancies per cycle were not different: 370 (25,38%) in non COVID vs 415 (27,30%) (p=0.237) during COVID-19 risk. There were no differences in biochemical pregnancy rates 52 (3,57%) vs 38 (2,50%) (p=0.089) nor in ectopic pregnancies 4 (1,08%) vs 3 (0,72%) (p=0,594), spontaneous abortions 84 (22,70%) vs 103 (24,82%) p=0,487, intrauterine ongoing pregnancies 282 (76,22%) vs 309 (74,46%) p=0.569. A multivariate analysis investigating differences in abortion rate showed no differences between the two times frame. Our results support no differences in asymptomatic infertile couples’ ART outcomes between pre COVID and COVID-19 period in one of early and most severe pandemic area.
Prevalence of Human Leukocyte Antigen HLA-B*57:01 in Individuals with HIV in West and Central Africa
Authors: KOLOU Malewe , PODA Armel , DIALLO Zellica , KONOU Esther , DOKPOMIWA Tatiana , ZOUNGRANA Jacques , SALOU Mounerou , MBA-TCHOUNGA Lionèle , BIGOT André , OUEDRAOGO Abdoul-Salam , BOUYOUT-AKOUTET Marielle , EKOUEVI Didier K. , EHOLIE Serge P.
Published: February 2021

Background: The presence of the human leukocyte antigen HLA-B*57:01 is associated with the development of a hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir (ABC). Limited data exist on HLA-B*57:01 prevalence in individuals with HIV-1 in Africa. This study aimed to estimate HLA-B*57:01 prevalence in individuals with HIV-1 in West and Central Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four countries in West and central Africa (Burkina-Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, and Togo) from January 2016 to February 2020 to determine the status of HLA-B*5701 in adults with HIV-1. The presence of HLA-B*57:01 was determined by using Single Specific Primer-Polymerase Chain Reaction (SSP-PCR) in blood samples. Prevalence rates were stratified based on country. Results: A total of 4,016 (69.8% women) individuals with HIV were enrolled. Their median age was 45, and the interquartile range was 38-52. We included 500 (12.4%) patients in Burkina-Faso, 1,453 (36.2%) in Côte d’Ivoire, 951 (23.7%) in Gabon, and 1,112 (27.7%) in Togo. The overall HLA-B*57:01 prevalence was 0.1% [95% CI: 0.0–0.2%]. The prevalence of HLA-B*57:01 was similar according to the four countries. Only one case was reported in each country except Togo, with no cases.Conclusions: HLA-B*57:01 prevalence is low in individuals with HIV in West and central Africa, and there is no difference among countries. This study does not confirm the utility of HLA-B*57:01 allele testing in this region.
Proteomic Analysis of the Spineless Cuttlefish Sepiella Japonica: Exploratory Analyses on the Phenomenon of Death after Spawning
Authors: Guo Baoying , Lin Shuangrui , Qi Pengzhi , Fan Meihua
Published: February 2021

Senescence and death occur after the spawn of female cuttlefish, which results in an immense loss of reproductive resources. To better understand the physiological mechanisms involving death after spawning in Sepiella japonica (Japanese spineless cuttlefish). We used proteomic methods to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the optic glands of S. japonica at three distinct growth stages: pre-spawning after sexual maturity (group A); spawning (group B) and post-spawning before death (group C). About 955, 1000, and 1024 DEPs were identified for each comparative group analysis (i.e. group B vs A, group B vs C, and group C vs A). The gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that the function of DEPs was correlated with peptidase activity, metal-ion binding and structural molecule activity, and the majority of DEPs were involved in signal transduction and energy metabolism. It was also identified some aging-related pathways in the results of KEGG annotation. Based on previous studies of anti-aging effects in cephalopods, our study provides a new insights about the death of S. japonica after spawning at the protein level.
Association of Genetic Variants of Oxidative Stress Responsive Kinase 1 (OXSR1) with Asthma Exacerbations in Non-Smoking Asthmatics
Authors: Kim¹ Min-Hye , Chang Hun Soo , Lee Jong-Uk , Shim¹ Ji-Su , Park Jong-Sook , Cho¹ Young-Joo , Park Choon-Sik
Published: February 2021

Background: Asthma exacerbation threatens patient's life. Several genetic studies have been conducted to determine the risk factors for asthma exacerbation, but this information is still lacking. We aimed to determine whether genetic variants of Oxidative Stress Responsive Kinase 1(OXSR1), a gene with functions of salt transport, immune response, and oxidative stress, are associated with exacerbation of asthma.Methods: Clinical data were obtained from 1,454 asthmatics and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of OXSR1 were genotyped. Genetic associations with annual exacerbation rate were analyzed depending on smoking status. Results: Eleven SNPs were selected using Asian data in the International HapMap database. The common allele of rs1384006 C>T of OXSR1 showed a significantly higher annual exacerbation rate than the rare allele in non-smoking asthmatics (CC vs. CT vs. TT: 0.43 ± 0.04 vs. 0.28 ± 0.03 vs. 0.31 ± 0.09, P=0.004, Pcorr=0.039). The frequent exacerbators had a significantly higher frequency of the common allele of rs1384006 C>T than did the infrequent exacerbators (74.4% vs. 55.2%, P=0.004, P corr=0.038). Conclusion: The common allele of rs1384006 C>T of OXSR1 was associated with the asthma exacerbation rate and a higher risk of being a frequent exacerbator, indicating that non-smoking asthmatics who carry common alleles may be vulnerable to asthma exacerbations.
High Resolution Endoscopic Classification of Chronic Gastritis and Helicobacter Pylori Infection Through Microvascular Pattern
Authors: Ko Weon Jin , Shin Hee Kyung , Shin Hyekyeong , Park Yu Sun , Cha Boram
Published: February 2021

Background and Aims The aim of this study was to validate the usefulness of high resolution (HR) endoscopy for predicting chronic gastritis and H. pylori (HP) infection status.Method Based on microvascular (MV) patterns, HR endoscopic findings were classified into three types; Class I: present with regular arrangement of collecting venule (RAC) and subepithelial capillary network (SECN), Class II: loss of RAC with uneven SECN, Class III: loss of RAC with loss of SECN. These findings were analyzed to determine how well it is correlated with histologic findings, serological analysis, and rapid urease test.Result Diagnostic accuracy compared with biopsy results were described. In the MV pattern, accuracy of class I in antrum and body were 56.3% and 100%, class II in antrum and body were 90% and 94.4%, and class III in antrum and body were 89.5% and 70%. In the PGI / PGII correlation with MV pattern classification, PGI / PGII was significantly higher in class I compared to class II or III (p<0.001). In the endoscopic prediction of HP infection, class I with negative HP infection rate 94.1%, however Class II and III showed positive HP infection in 100% and 90%.Conclusion Chronic gastritis classification algorithm through microvascular changes including RAC and SECN showed high accuracy in diagnosing chronic gastritis by HR endoscopy. In addition, the algorithm helps us to distinguish recent HP infections.
Isolation and Characterisation of Lymphatic Endothelial Cells from Lung Tissues Affected by Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Authors: Nishino Koichi , Yoshimatsu Yasuhiro , Muramatsu Tomoki , Sekimoto Yasuhito , Mitani Keiko , Kobayashi Etsuko , Okamoto Shouichi , Ebana Hiroki , Okada Yoshinori , Kurihara Masatoshi , Suzuki Kenji , Inazawa Johji , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Watabe Tetsuro , Seyama Kuniaki
Published: February 2021

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare pulmonary disease characterised by the proliferation of smooth muscle-like cells (LAM cells), and an abundance of lymphatic vessels in LAM lesions. Studies reported that vascular endothelial growth factor-D (VEGF-D) secreted by LAM cells contributes to LAM-associated lymphangiogenesis, however, the precise mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis and characteristics of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) in LAM lesions have not yet been elucidated. In this study, human primary-cultured LECs were obtained both from LAM-affected lung tissues (LAM-LECs) and normal lung tissues (control LECs) using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). We found that LAM-LECs had significantly higher ability of proliferation and migration compared to control LECs. VEGF-D significantly promoted migration of LECs but not proliferation of LECs in vitro. cDNA microarray and FACS analysis revealed the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-3 and integrin α9 were elevated in LAM-LECs. Inhibition of VEGFR-3 suppressed proliferation and migration of LECs, and blockade of integrin α9 reduced VEGF-D-induced migration of LECs. Our data uncovered the distinct features of LAM-associated LECs, increased proliferation and migration, which may be due to higher expression of VEGFR-3 and integrin α9. Furthermore, we also found VEGF-D/VEGFR-3 and VEGF-D/ integrin α9 signaling play an important role in LAM-associated lymphangiogenesis.
Organozinc Pivalates for Cobalt-Catalyzed Difluoroalkylarylation of Alkenes and Mechanistic Insights
Authors: Cheng Xinyi , Liu Xingchen , Wang Shengchun , Hu Ying , Hu Bingjing , Lei Aiwen , Li Jie
Published: February 2021

A set of cobalt-catalyzed regioselective difluoroalkylarylation of both activated and unactivated alkenes with bench-stable solid arylzinc pivalates and difluoroalkyl bromides through a cascade Csp3‒Csp3/Csp3‒Csp2 bond formation has been developed under mild reaction conditions. Indeed, a wide range of functional groups on difluoroalkyl bromides, olefins, 1,3-dienes as well as (hetero)arylzinc pivalates are well tolerated by the cobalt-catalyst, thus furnishing three-component coupling products in good yields and with high regio- and diastereoselectivity. Kinetic experiments comparing arylzinc pivalates and conventional arylzinc halides highlight the unique reactivity of these new organozinc pivalates. Detailed mechanistic studies strongly support that the reaction involves direct halogen atom abstraction via single electron transfer to difluoroalkyl bromides from the in situ formed cobalt(I) species, thus realizing a Co(I)/Co(II)/Co(III) catalytic cycle.
Maternal Serum EG-VEGF as A First Trimester Predictor of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zeng Shiyu , Yu Ling , Ding Yiling , Yang Mengyuan
Published: February 2021

Background

This study aims to explore whether plasma endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF) in the first trimester can be used as a predictor of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), and compare it with placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) to evaluate its prediction of HDP value.
Methods

This is a prospective cohort study that records the medical history of the pregnant women included in the study at 11–13 weeks’ gestation, and analyzes serum biochemical markers including EG-VEGF, PIGF, sFlt-1 and sFlt-1/PIGF. The predictive values of these tests were determined. We used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to find the optimal cut-off value for each biomarker and compare the operating characteristics (sensitivity, specificity). Logistic regression analysis was used to create a prediction model for HDP based on maternal characteristics and maternal biochemistry.
Results

Data were obtained from 205 pregnant women. 17 cases were diagnosed with HDP, the incidence rate was 8.2% (17/205). Women who developed HDP had a significantly higher body mass index (BMI) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Serum EG-VEGF levels in the first trimester are significantly higher in pregnant women with HDP. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value(NPV) of serum EG-VEGF levels more than 227.83 pg/ml for predicting HDP were 43%, 93%, 86% and 62%, respectively. We established a prediction model in the first trimester include maternal BMI, MAP, and EG-VEGF, with an AUC of 0.8861 (95%CI: 0.7905–0.9818), which is better than using EG-VEGF alone (AUC: 0.66).
Conclusion

This study demonstrated that serum EG-VEGF is a promising biomarker for predicting HDP in the first trimester. It has better predictive performance compared with the currently used biomarkers like PIGF and sFlt-1. Combining maternal clinical characteristics and biochemical tests at 11–13 weeks can effectively identify women at high risk of HDP.
Comparative Study of Structural and Optical Properties of SiO2 Nanoparticles Prepared by DC Reactive Sputtering and Sol-Gel Route
Authors: Mutesher Nora H. , Kadhim Firas Jawad
Published: February 2021

In the present work, silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanostructures were synthesized using two different techniques: sol-gel deposition and dc reactive plasma sputtering deposition. Amorphous structural phase of silica films was observed for the samples synthesized by two decomposition methods. The results of scanning electron microscopy indicated the nanostructural characteristic of such compounds. In addition to, the dependence of such nanostructures on the synthesis parameters in each preparation method. The FT-IR spectroscopic measurements showed the formation of siloxan bonds as well as the high content of hydroxyl groups in silica sol-gel samples compared with samples derived sputtering. The UV-Vis. Spectroscopic measurements were used to investigate the optical properties of such nanostructure films in order to select the optimum samples that can be employed in different optoelectronics applications such as scatters in amplifying media.
Cost-Effective Fabrication, Antibacterial Application and Cell Viability Studies of Modified Nonwoven Cotton Fabric
Authors: Nawaz Rahat , Naqvi Sayed Tayyab Raza , Fatima Batool , Zulfiqar Nazia , Farooq Muhammad Umer , Javeed Asghar , Khan Waheed Qamar , Rasul Azhar , Jafari Laila , Hussain Dilshad , MAJEED Saadat
Published: February 2021

Nonwoven cotton fabric has been fabricated and designed for antibacterial applications using low cost and ecofriendly precursors. The treatment of fabric with alkali leads to formation of active sites. The surfaces were dip coated with silver nanaoparticles and chitosan. The surface was chlorinated in next step to transform amide (N-H) groups in chitosan into N-halamine (N-Cl). The modified and unmodified surfaces of the nonwoven cotton fabric have been characterized by FTIR, SEM, and XRD. The active chlorine loading is measured with iodine/ sodium thiosulphate. The antimicrobial activity and cell toxicity assay were carried out with and without modifications of nonwoven cotton fabric. The antimicrobial efficacies of loaded fabric were evaluated against four bacterial species (Micrococcus lutes, Staphylococcus aurea, Enterobacter aerogenes, and E.coli). It was found that modified fabric exhibited superior efficiency against gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains as compared to their bulk counterparts upon exposure without destroying and affecting fabric nature. The overall process is economical for commercial purposes. The modified fabric can be used for antimicrobial, health, and food packaging industries, and in other biomedical applications.
The effect of the interaction between fall-related self-efficacy and gait function on the occurrence of falls in community-dwelling older people
Authors: Kamide Naoto , Sato Haruhiko , Sakamoto Miki , Shiba Yoshitaka
Published: February 2021

Background Fall-related self-efficacy and gait function are known to be associated. However, whether the interaction between fall-related self-efficacy and gait function affects future falls has not been investigated.Aim The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the interaction between fall-related self-efficacy and spatiotemporal gait parameters on the occurrence of falls in community-dwelling older people. Methods A total of 265 elderly persons (age ≥65 years) living independently in the community were recruited. For gait function, spatiotemporal gait parameters at usual and maximum effort paces were measured using a 2.4-m walkway system with embedded pressure sensors. Furthermore, changes in gait parameters between usual and maximum paces were calculated (Δgait parameters). Fall-related self-efficacy was assessed using the short version of the Falls Efficacy Scale International (Short FES-I). The occurrence of falls was prospectively investigated 6 months later. The effect of the interaction between Short FES-I and gait parameters on falls was analyzed using logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounding factors.Results Several gait parameters were significantly different by self-efficacy level. As for the effect of the interaction of fall-related self-efficacy and gait parameters on falls, smaller Δgait parameters in those with high efficacy were associated with higher odds ratios of falls, whereas Δgait parameters in those with low efficacy were not associated with falls.Discussion and conclusions The interaction between fall-related self-efficacy and gait function appeared to affect future falls. Assessments combining fall-related self-efficacy and gait function may improve the accuracy of prediction of future falls.