bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manifestation of Atithi Devo Bhavah maxim on Sri Lankan Tamil refugees treatment in India
Authors: Panakkeel Maneesh , Alaoui Aicha El
Published: November 2020

This study discusses the reflection of Indian’s Athithi Devo Bhava policy towards Sri Lankan Tamil refugees during the hostility staged in the island since 1983. The enduring Indian practices of tolerance and goodwill resulted in following a benevolent policy towards all those who sought asylum. In ancient India, there were four cultural maxims: (1) Matru Devo Bhava, your mother is like God; (2) Pitru Devo Bhava, your father is like God; (3) Acharya Devo Bhava, your teacher is like God, and (4) Athithi Devo Bhava, your guest is like God. The refugee has considered as an Athithi (guest) to the country and treated them as God. India has accorded asylum to more than 25 million people in spite of the absence of strong refugee laws, but the treatment has been given on an ad hoc basis. The study is descriptive in nature. The information was collected from secondary sources. It underlines that the Indian government has been providing accommodation, food, and security to refugees. Subsequently, the services enjoyed by the Indian citizens are extended to refugees. There is a harmony between Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils in language and culture. Tamils in India and the Indian government has treated the refugee as a guest.
Identification of Forearc Sediments in the Milin-Zedong Region and Their Constraints on Tectonomagmatic Evolution of the Gangdese Arc, Southern Tibet
Authors: Zhang Shao-Hua , Ji Wei-Qiang , Zhang Hao , Chen Guo-Hui , Wang Jian-Gang , Meng Zhong-Yu , Wu Fu-Yuan
Published: November 2020

The Xigaze forearc sediments revealed the part of the tectonomagmatic history of the Gangdese arc that the bedrocks did not record. However, the sediments’ development is restricted to the region around and west of Xigaze City. Whether the eastern segment of the arc had a corresponding forearc basin is yet to be resolved. In this study, a field-based stratigraphic study, detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology (15 samples), and Hf isotopic analyses (11 of the 15 samples) were carried out on four sections in the Milin-Zedong area, southeast Tibet. The analytical results revealed the existence of three distinct provenances. The lower sequence is characterized by fine-grained sandstone, interbedded mudstone, and some metamorphic rocks (e.g., gneiss and schist). The detrital zircon U-Pb age distribution of this sequence is analogous to those of the Carboniferous-Permian strata and metasediments of the Nyingtri group in the Lhasa terrane. The middle and upper sequences are predominantly composed of medium- to coarse-grained volcaniclastic/quartzose sandstones, which are generally interbedded with mudstone. The detrital zircon U-Pb ages and Hf isotope signatures indicate that the middle sequences are Jurassic to Early Cretaceous in age (~200–100 Ma) and show clear affinity with the Gangdese arc rocks, that is, positive εHft values. In contrast, the upper sequences are characterized by Mesozoic detrital zircons (150–100 Ma) and negative εHft values, indicative of derivation from the central Lhasa terrane. The overall compositions of the detrital zircon U-Pb ages and Hf isotopes of the middle to upper sequences resemble those of the Xigaze forearc sediments, implying that related forearc sediments may have been developed in the eastern part of the Gangdese arc. It is possible that the forearc equivalents were eroded or destroyed during the later orogenesis. Additionally, the detrital zircons from these forearc sediments indicate that this segment of the Gangdese arc experienced more active and continuous magmatism from the Early Jurassic to Early Cretaceous than its bedrock records indicate.
Cohort Profile: The Nigerian HIV Geriatric Cohort Study
Authors: Dakum Patrick , Avong Yohanna Kambai , Odutola Michael Kolawole , Okuma James , Kayode Gbenga Ayodele , Nta Iboro Ekpo , Ndembi Nicaise , Mensah Charles , Khamofu Hadiza , Okonkwo Prosper , Okpanachi John Oko , Ezeanolue Echezona
Published: November 2020

Background: The Nigerian HIV Geriatric Cohort (NHGC) is a longitudinal cohort setup to learn how elderly people living with HIV (EPLHIV) in Nigeria fare, despite not being prioritized by the national treatment program, and to deepen knowledge for their differentiated care and achieve better outcomes. In this paper, we describe data collected on sociodemographic and clinical data from EPLHIV from the inception of Nigeria’s national HIV program to 2018.Methods: Patient-level data spanning the period 2004 to 2018, obtained from comprehensive HIV treatment hospitals, that are supported by four major PEPFAR-implementing partners in Nigeria were used. These 4 entities collaborated as member organizations of the Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance. We defined elderly as those aged 50 years and above. From deidentified treatment records, demographic and clinical data of EPLHIV ≥50-year-old at ART initiation during the review period was extracted, merged into a single REDcap® database, and described using STATA 13.Results: A total of 101,652 EPLHIV were analysed. Women accounted for 53,608 (53%) women, 51,037 (71%) of EPLHIV identified as married and 33,446 (51%) unemployed. Median age was 57.1 years (IQR 52 – 60 years) with a median duration on ART treatment of 4.1 years (IQR 1.7 – 7.1 years). ART profile showed that 97,586 (96%) were on 1st-line and 66,125 (65%) were on TDF-based regimens. Median body mass index (BMI) was 22.2 kg/m2 (IQR 19.5 – 25.4kg/m2) with 43,012 (55%), 15,081 (19%) and 6,803 (9%) showing normal (18.5 – <25kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25 - <30kg/m2) and obese (BMI ≥30kg/m2) ranges respectively. Prevalence of hypertension (systolic-BP >140mmHg or diastolic-BP >90mmHg) was 16,201 (21%). EPLHIV Median CD4 count was 381 cells/μL (IQR 212 - 577 cells/μL) and 26,687 (82%) had a viral load result showing <1000copies/ml within one year of their last visit. As for outcomes at their last visit, 62,821 (62%) were on active-in-treatment, 28,463 (28%) were lost-to-follow-up and 6,912 (7%) died. Poor population death records and aversion to autopsies makes it almost impossible to estimate AIDS-related deaths.Conclusions: This cohort describes the clinical and non-clinical profile of EPLHIV in Nigeria. We are following up the cohort to design and implement intervention programs, develop prognostic models to achieve better care outcomes for EPLHIV. This cohort would provide vital information for stakeholders in HIV prevention, care and treatment to understand the characteristics of EPLHIV.
Dental care for drug users in Norway: Dental professionals’ attitudes to treatment and experiences with interprofessional collaboration
Authors: Hovden Ewa , Ansteinsson Vibeke , Klepaker Ingrid Volden , Widström Eeva , Skudutyte-Rystad Rasa
Published: November 2020

Background: The present study aimed to assess dental professionals’ attitudes and experiences related to the dental treatment of drug users and to interprofessional collaboration with the rehabilitation institutions (RIs).Methods: The study population comprised 141 dentists and dental hygienists (response rate 73%) working in the Public Dental Service (PDS) in three counties in Norway. All of the participants completed an electronically distributed questionnaire on existing practices and experiences regarding dental treatment for drug users and interprofessional collaboration with RIs. The Norwegian Centre for Research Data (NSD) approved the study.Results: Thirty-five percent of the dentists and 10% of the dental hygienists had treated five or more drug users per month (p < 0.05). The majority of dentists and dental hygienists used more time for examination and treatment of drug users compared to other patient groups. Over 70% of dental clinicians considered drug users as demanding patients due to fear, missing appointments, and poor compliance with oral hygiene advice. Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that attitudes and experiences with dental treatment of drug users were significantly associated with background characteristics of professionals. The overall perception was that drug users often had higher expectations of dental treatment than what could be defined as necessary care and provided by the PDS. One-third of dental professionals reported that they were satisfied with the collaboration they had with RIs . Most of the respondents agreed that personnel from RIs could positively influence interprofessional collaboration by having sufficient knowledge of drug users statutory rights to free of charge dental treatment, as well as by close follow-up and motivation of patients before dental treatment.Conclusions: Dental professionals perceived the management of drug users as demanding due to dental fear, difficulties in coping with appointments, poor compliance to preventive measures, and disagreement between dental treatment defined as necessary and drug users’ expectations. Attitudes and experiences related to dental treatment of drug users were significantly associated with background characteristics of clinicians. Organizational barriers regarding leadership, accessibility, and collaborative routines, as well as lack of interprofessional communication, suggest current models of health care delivery to drug users need reviewing.
The deleterious effect of the HLA-C1/KIR2DL3 receptor-ligand combination in Chinese HIV patients
Authors: Sun Jian-jun , Shen Jia-yin , Zhang Feng-di , Zhang Ren-fang , Liu Li , Shen Yin-zhong , Wang Jiang-rong , Qi Tang-kai , Wang Zhen-yan , Tang Yang , Song Wei , Chen Jun , Guan Li-qian , Sun Mei-yan , Zhang Shu-ye , Lu Hong-zhou
Published: November 2020

Background The combination of KIR-HLA affects the prognosis of HIV infection, and polymorphisms of KIR and its ligand HLA differs between regions and races. Few research has focused on the effects of the KIR-HLA combination on the prognosis of HIV-infected individuals in China. Methods Peripheral blood samples were collected from newly diagnosed and treatment naïve HIV-infected patients and processed according to the study design. Their clinical data and other demographic information were recorded. The genomic DNA of the host was extracted from whole blood samples, and KIR genotyping was performed using sequence specific primer amplification (PCR-SSP). The HLA genotyping was performed using sequence analysis (PCR-SBT), and the HLA-KIR genotyping and combination information were obtained. Fisher’s exact test was used for the comparison of categorical variables between groups, and the Mann-Whitney test was used for continuous variables. Results The baseline HIV level in patients with an HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3+ background was significantly higher than that in patients with an HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3- (4.34 log10 copies/ml vs. 3.72 log10 copies/ml, P=0.02). The baseline CD4/CD8 ratio of HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3+ patients was significantly lower than that of HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3- patients (0.33 vs. 0.56, P=0.02). The plasma soluble CD14 level at baseline was significantly lower in HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3- infected persons than HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3+ patients (P=0.03). Conclusions HIV-infected persons with the combination of HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3+ had a much higher HIV set point, higher baseline sCD14 levels and lower baseline CD4/CD8 than patients without this combination. The receptor-ligand combination of HLA-C1+/KIR2DL3+ has a deleterious effect in Chinese HIV patients.
CircHYBID Regulates Hyaluronan Metabolism in Chondrocytes by Promoting the Expression of the hsa-miR-29b-3p Target Gene TGF-β1
Authors: Liao Hong xing , Zhang Zhi Hui , Chen Hui Lin , Huang Ying-Mei , Liu Zhan-Liang , Huang Jian
Published: November 2020

Background: Hyaluronan (HA) metabolism by chondrocytes is essential for cartilage development and homeostasis. However, the function of circular RNAs (circRNAs)in HA metabolism is limited. In this study, we profiled the role of the novel HA-related circRNA circHYBID in the progression of osteoarthritis.Methods: The function of circHYBID in HA metabolism in chondrocytes was investigated using gain-of-function experiments. The mechanism of HA-binding protein involved in hyaluronan depolymerization (HYBID) was confirmed through bioinformatics analysis and luciferase assays. The expression correlation of the circHYBID–hsa-miR-29b-3p–transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 axis was examined by qRT-PCR and western blotting. CircHYBID, TGF-β1, and HA levels in cartilage samples were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. ELISA assay was used to assess HA accumulation in chondrocyte supernatant.Results: CircHYBID expression was significantly downregulated in damaged cartilage samples comparing with that in the corresponding intact cartilage samples. CircHYBID expression was inversely correlated with the Mankin score and positively correlated with HA expression. Interleukin-1β stimulation in chondrocytes downregulated circHYBID expression and decreased HA accumulation. Gain-of-function experiments revealed that circHYBID overexpression in chondrocytes increased HA accumulation by regulating HA synthase 2 and HYBID expression. Further mechanism analysis illustrated that circHYBID upregulated TGF-β1 expression by sponging hsa-miR-29b-3p. Conclusions: Our results describe a novel HA-related circRNA that could promote the synthesis and accumulation of HA. The circHYBID–hsa-miR-29b-3p–TGF-β1 axis may play a powerful regulatory role in HA metabolism and Osteoarthritis (OA) progression. Thus, these findings will provide new perspectives for studies on OA pathogenesis, and circHYBID may serve as a potential target for OA therapy.
Putative Pleiotropic Effects of the Knock-Down Resistance (L1014F) Allele on the Life-History Traits in Anopheles Gambiae.
Authors: Medjigbodo Adandé A. , Djogbénou Luc Salako , Djihinto Oswald Y. , Akoton Romaric B. , Abbey Emmanuella , Kakossou Rosaria M. , Sonounameto Eric G. , Salavi Esther B.J. , Djossou Laurette , Badolo Athanase
Published: November 2020

BackgroundExisting mechanisms of insecticide resistance have been known to help the survival of mosquitoes following contact with chemical compounds, even though they could negatively affect the life-history traits of resistant malaria vectors. In West Africa, the knock-down resistance mechanism, kdrR (L1014F) is the most common. However, little knowledge is available on its effects on mosquito life traits. We investigated the fitness effects associated with this knock-down resistance allele in Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto (s.s.).MethodsTwo laboratory reference strains of An. gambiae s.s., Kisumu (susceptible) and KisKdr (kdr resistant) were used. Female mosquitoes were fed and allowed to lay eggs. Fecundity and fertility were assessed by examining the number of eggs per mosquito and larval hatching rates. Larval survivorship and pupation rates were also measured. Female mosquitoes of both strains were fed through membrane feeding assays, then the blood feeding success, blood volume and adult survivorship were monitored. ResultsAn. gambiae carrying kdrR allele (KisKdr) showed a lower ability to lay eggs. The mean number of larvae in the susceptible strain Kisumu was overall threefold higher than that seen in KisKdr strain with significant difference in the hatching rates (81.89% in Kisumu versus 72.89% in KisKdr, p= 0.003). KisKdr larvae had a significant higher larval survivorship than Kisumu. The blood feeding success was significantly higher (p= 2.2.10-16) in the resistant mosquitoes (84%) than that in the susceptible ones (34.75%). However, the mean blood volume was 1.36 µL/mg, 1.45 µL/mg and 1.68 µL/mg in Kisumu, homozygote and heterozygote KisKdr respectively. After blood feeding, the heterozygote KisKdr displayed highest survivorship when compared to that of Kisumu.ConclusionsOur findings provide novel insights on fitness effects of the kdrR (L1014F) allele in An. gambiae. The presence of this resistance allele tends to have an impact on mosquito life-history traits such as fecundity, fertility, larval survivorship and blood feeding behaviour. These data could help to guide the implementation of more reliable strategies for the control of malaria vectors.
Estimating the Tolerance of Brachial Plexus to Hypofractionated Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy – A Modelling-based Approach from Clinical Experience.
Authors: Kapitanova Irina , Biswas Sharmi , Divekar Sabrina , Kemmerer Eric J , Rostock Robert A , Forster Kenneth M , Grimm Rachel J , Scofield Carla J , Grimm Jimm , Emami Bahman , Mahadevan Anand
Published: November 2020

Background: Brachial plexopathy (BP) is a potentially serious complication from stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) that has not been widely studied. Therefore, we compared datasets from two different institutions and generated a brachial plexus dose-response model, to quantify what dose constraints would be needed to minimize the effect on normal tissue while still enabling potent therapy for the tumor.Methods: Two published SBRT datasets were pooled and modeled from patients treated with SBRT at Indiana University and the Richard Roudebush VAMC from 1998 to 2007, as well as the Karolinska Institute from 2008 to 2013. All patients in both studies were treated with SBRT for apically located lung tumors localized superior to the aortic arch. Toxicities were graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) and a probit dose response model was created with maximum likelihood parameter fitting.Results: This analysis includes a total of 89 brachial plexus Dmax values from both institutions. Among the 14 patients who developed BP, the most common complications were grade 2, comprising 7 patients. The median follow-up was 30 months (range 6.1-72.2) in the Karolinska dataset, and Indiana had a median of 13 months (range 1-71). Both studies had a median range of 3 fractions, but in the Indiana dataset 9 patients were treated in 4 fractions and the paper did not differentiate which ones were which, so our analysis is considered to be in 3-4 fractions, which is one of the main limitations. The probit model showed that the risk of BP with Dmax of 26 Gy in 3-4 fractions is 10%, and 50% with Dmax of 70 Gy in 3 -4 fractions.Conclusions: This analysis is only a preliminary result because more details are needed, and more comprehensive datasets are needed from a much broader cross-section of clinical practices. When more institutions join the QUANTEC and HyTEC methodology of reporting sufficient details to enable data pooling, our field will finally reach an improved understanding of human dose tolerance.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Gastroesophageal Reflux in Symptomatic Very Preterm Neonates
Authors: Hu Yu , Fu Jian-Hua , Zhang Shu-Cheng
Published: November 2020

Background Because of immature development, preterm infants are prone to respiratory and digestive symptoms of dyspnea, vomiting, and aspiration pneumonia. These symptoms are often observed in infants with gastroesophageal reflux (GER). However, the relationship between GER and these symptoms remain unclear.Methods A cohort of 61 preterm infants born at 32 weeks of gestation or earlier with respiratory or digestive symptoms were retrospectively reviewed. All the preterm infants underwent 24-hour pH-multichannel intraluminal impedance monitoring. Clinical data were analyzed using logistic regression analyses.Results Among the 61 symptomatic preterm infants, 34 were positive for pathologic GER with a prevalence of 55.7%. The GER associated symptoms included apnea (42.6%), cyanosis (19.7%), vomiting (14.8%), pneumonia (9.8%), and poor weight gain (13.1%). These respiratory and digestive symptoms were more frequent in infants with pathologic GER than in those without. (p<0.05) The risk factors for GER included severe BPD (odds ratio [OR], 6.890; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.125-42.209). Probiotics and delayed full oral feeds reduced the risk of GER (odds ratio [OR], 0.642; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.457-0.901, p<0.05; OR, 0.234, 95% CI, 0.069-0.794, p<0.05). Conclusions The prevalence of GER is high in the symptomatic preterm infants. GER aggravates the respiratory and digestive symptoms holding that not all the symptoms are GER associated. Probiotics and delayed full oral feeds can decrease the prevalence of GER.
The effects of workplace health education on smoking-related behaviour and unequal gains by job position in China: ABWMC programme findings
Authors: LIN Haoxiang , CHEN Meijun , Chang Chun , LIU Zhao
Published: November 2020

Objective: Although the Chinese government has introduced a series of regulations to promote tobacco-related health education in workplaces, the implementation impact has been far from satisfactory. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of company level tobacco-related health education and the potential unequal gain across job positions.Methods: Data from the 2018 Asia Best Workplace Mainland China programme were employed to address these aims. This was a cross-sectional study that included 14195 employees from 79 companies in mainland China. Spearman correlation tests were used to examine unadjusted correlation between the study variables, and binary logistic regression was used for multivariable analysis.Results: Tobacco-related health education was associated with better smoking harm awareness, lower second-hand smoke exposure, better perceived workplace environment and positive health information-seeking behaviour. Job position interacted with health education, suggesting that positive effects of health education were smaller for general employees than employees who held an administrative position.Conclusions: We conclude that workplace tobacco-related health education was not only associated with tobacco control effects but also had spillover effects, which were significant for higher-ranking employees. Policy makers should recognize and reduce the potential health disparities.
Converting Habits of Antibiotic Use for Respiratory Tract Infections in German Primary Care (Change-3) - Process evaluation of a complex intervention
Authors: Poß-Doering Regina , Kuehn Lukas , Kamradt Martina , Glassen Katharina , Thomas Fleischhauer , Kaufmann-Kolle Petra , Koeppen Martina , Wollny Anja , Altiner Attila , Wensing Michel
Published: November 2020

Background: Antimicrobial resistance remains a global challenge. In Germany, the national health agenda supports measures that enhance the appropriate, guideline-oriented use of antibiotics. The study “Converting Habits of Antibiotic Use for Respiratory Tract Infections in German Primary Care (CHANGE-3)” aimed at a sustainable reduction of antimicrobial resistance through converting patterns of prescribing and use of antibiotics and an increase in health literacy in primary care patients, practice teams, and in the general public. Embedded in a cluster-randomized trial of a multifaceted implementation program, a process evaluation focused on the uptake of program components to assess the fidelity of the implementation program in the CHANGE-3 study and to understand utilization of its educational components. Methods: A mix of qualitative and quantitative methods was used. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with General Practitioners, Medical Assistants, patients treated for respiratory tract infection and outreach visitors who had carried out individual outreach visits. A two-wave written survey (T1: 5 months after start, T2: 16 months after start) was conducted in general practitioners and medical assistants. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic framework analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey data. Results: Uptake of intervention components was heterogenous. Across all components, the uptake reported by General Practitioners varied from 20% to 88% at T1 and 31% to 63% at T2. Medical Assistants reported uptake from 22% to 70% at T1 and 6% to 69% at T2. Paper-based components could by and large be integrated in daily practice (64% to 90% in T1; 41% to 93% in T2), but uptake of digital components was low. A one-time outreach visit provided thematic information and feedback regarding actual prescribing, but due to time constraints were received with reluctance by practice teams. Patients were largely unaware of program components, but assumed that information and education could promote health literacy regarding antibiotics use. Conclusions: The process evaluation contributed to understanding the applicability of the delivered educational components with regards to the appropriate use of antibiotics. Future research efforts need to identify the best mode of delivery to reach the targeted population. Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN15061174. Registered 13 July 2018 – Retrospectively registered, http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN15061174
Factors Influencing the Deterioration from Cognitive Decline of Normal Aging to Dementia among Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Hayajneh Audai A. , Rababa Mohammad , Alghwiri Alia A. , Masha'al Dina
Published: November 2020

Background: A dearth of differential research exists regarding the determinants of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and moderate cognitive impairment or dementia among nursing home residents. This study aimed to identify and examine the association between medical factors (number of comorbidities, hospitalization, disability, depression, frailty and quality of life) and moderate cognitive impairment or dementia in nursing homes residents.Methods: A cross-sectional design was used in this study. Convenience sampling of 182 participants was conducted in nursing homes located in the central part of Jordan. Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) was used to screen both MCI and moderate cognitive impairment or dementia. Bivariate analysis, including t-test and ANOVA test, and logistic and linear regression models were used to examine and identify the medical factors associated with moderate cognitive impairment or dementia compared to mild cognitive impairment.Results: Most nursing home residents had MCI (87.4%) compared to a few with moderate cognitive impairment or dementia. Age (t = -2.773), number of comorbidities (t = -4.045), depression (t = -4.809), frailty (t = -4.038), and quality of life physical (t = 3.282) and mental component summaries (t = 2.469) were significantly different between the stages of cognitive impairment. Marital status (t = -4.050, p < 0.001), higher-income (t = 3.755, p < 0.001), recent hospitalization (t = 2.622,p = 0.01), depression (t = -2.737, p = 0.007), and frailty (t = 2.852, p = 0.005) were significantly associated with mental ability scores among nursing home residents.Conclusion: The coexistence of comorbidities and depression among nursing home residents with MCI necessitates prompt management by healthcare providers to combat depressive symptoms in order to delay the dementia trajectory among at-risk residents.Trail registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04589637
Correlation between blood group type and Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CA-UTI) in critically ill patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sulaiman Khalid Al , Qahtani Nouf Al , Muqrin Mashael Al , Dossari Maram Al , Wabel Ali Al , Sulaiman Tareq Al , Vishwakarma Ramesh
Published: November 2020

Background: CA-UTI consider one of the most common hospital acquired infections. Several risk factors for CA-UTI have been identified. There is no enough evidence regard the impact of ABO type and the risk of CA-UTI acquisition. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between ABO types and the risk of having recurrent, reinfection CA-UTI, and MDR reinfection in critically ill.Methodology: A retrospective cohort study of adult ICU patients through 2018 in ICU at tertiary hospital who have confirmed CA-UTI to investigate the correlation between ABO type with the susceptibility of recurrent, reinfection and MDR reinfection CA-UTI in critically ill. 1730 patients were reviewed to screen patients for inclusion into the study,203 patients have confirmed CA-UTI using 2010 IDSA guideline definition.81patients meeting inclusion/exclusion criteria were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups based on ABO type (O-group Vs. Non-O group). We considered a P value of < 0.05 as statistically significant.Results: Among 81 patients, 37 patients (45.6%) had O blood group type. Patients with O blood group type were associated with lower rate of recurrent CA-UTI (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.085-0.952, P = 0.0414), multidrug resistant (MDR) organisms (OR 0.05, 95% CI 0.003-0.752, P = 0.0304), shorter ICU LOS (Est (SE): -0.024 (0.045), P = <0.001) and mechanical ventilation duration (Est. (SE): -0.41 (0.066), P = <0.001) compared with non-O blood group type. On the other hand, neither CA-UTI reinfection (OR 1.47, 95% CI 0.357-6.054, P = 0.5538) nor ICU mortality (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.219-2.257, P = 0.5538) were statistically significant.Conclusion: Patients with non-O group type were statistically significant associated with higher rate of recurrent CA-UTI and MDRO. These data confirm the need for randomized controlled trials with a larger sample size to clarify and confirm our study findings.
Flexible Brain Transitions Between Hierarchical Network Segregation and Integration Predict Human Behavior
Authors: Wang Rong , Su Xiaoli , Chang Zhao , Wu Ying , Lin Pan
Published: November 2020

Cognition involves locally segregated and globally integrated processing. This process is hierarchically organized, linking to evidence from hierarchical modules in brain networks. However, it remains a mystery how flexible transitions between these hierarchical processes are associated with human behavior. Here, we used a multisource interference task and measured hierarchical segregation and integration across multiple levels. Our results show more flexible transitions between segregated and integrated brain states in the task state. Crucially, brain flexibility in resting and task states was associated with human behavior. To achieve a better performance, the resting brain is optimized to be more flexible, such that it is prepared to more efficiently switch into a task state where the brain needs less flexibility to stably perform the task. Our hierarchical modular analysis was more effective in detecting the alterations in functional organization and the phenotype of human behavior than graph-based network measures at a single level.
Phase Engineering of Mo-V Oxides for Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Qu Gan , Qiu Chuntian , Wang Jun , Tan Jiewen , Jia Shuangfeng , Chen Zhesheng , Rueff Jean-Pascal , Zheng Guangyuan , Su Chenliang , Tian Bingbing
Published: November 2020

With the ever-increasing demands of grid-scale energy storage, aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have garnered increasing attention around the world. However, limited Zn2+ host materials have hindered the commercialization of ZIBs. Hence, Mo-V oxides with different phase structures (orth-, tri-, and tetra-MoVO) were precisely constructed to develop phase-dependent Mo-V oxide cathodes for Zn2+ storage in ZIBs. The open frameworks and varied tunnel structures formed a favorable alternative for achieving suitable Zn2+ diffusion kinetics. With optimized phase engineering, a high specific capacity of approximately 400 mAh g−1 and the excellent cyclic stability of 1000 cycles were achieved with orth-MoVO as the cathode. The large amount of six- and seven-member rings in the orth-MoVO phase, which allow for alternative Zn2+ insertion, played a vital role in hosting Zn2+ ions reversibly. The proposed phase engineering strategy provides a new approach toward cathode design in ZIBs.
MiR-375 gene therapy attenuates drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by inhibiting cell autophagy
Authors: Wang Dan , Yang Jingbo
Published: November 2020

Objective

To probe into the regulatory mechanism of miR-375 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells under sorafenib treatment.
Methods

Western blotting and qRT-PCR were applied to measure the expressions of miR-375 and SIRT5 in parental HCC cells (HepG2 and Huh7) and sorafenib-resistant HCC cells (HepG2/so and Huh7/so). HepG2/so cells were accordingly transfected with miR-375 mimic, miR-375 inhibitor, sh-SIRT5, pcDNA3.1-SIRT5 or negative control. Western blotting measured the expressions of p62, LC3I and LC3II in HCC cells. CCK-8 and flow cytometry assessed the survivability and apoptosis of HCC cells, respectively. Bioinformatics techniques and dual-luciferase reporter assay predicted and verified the targeting relationship between miR-375 and SIRT5.
Results

MiR-375 was under-expressed and SIRT5 was over-expressed in HCC cells. Autophagy inhibitor impaired the survival of HepG2/so cells transfected with miR-375 inhibitor. Autophagy activator enhanced the drug resistance of HepG2/so cells transfected with miR-375 mimic. MiR-375 suppressed the drug resistance of HepG2/so cells by inhibiting autophagy. SIRT5 enhanced the drug resistance of HepG2/so cells by promoting autophagy and it could be targeted by miR-375.
Conclusion

MiR-375 suppresses autophagy to attenuate the drug resistance of HCC cells by regulating SIRT5. The findings of this study may provide new therapeutic targets for treating hepatocellular carcinoma.
Antimicrobial resistance profile and multidrug resistance patterns of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates from patients suspected for pneumococcal infections in Ethiopia
Authors: SHAREW BEKELE , Moges Feleke , Yismaw Gizachew , Abebe Wondiwossen , Fentaw Surafal , Caugant Dominique A. , Vestrheim Didrik , Tessema Belay
Published: November 2020

Backgrounds: Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the leading causes of bacterial meningitis and pneumoniae in elderly people and children. Antimicrobial resistant strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae has been detected in all parts of the world and become one of the greatest challenges to global public health today. The aim of this study is therefore, to assess the antimicrobial resistance profiles and multidrug resistance patterns of S. pneumoniae isolates from patients suspected for pneumococcal infections in Ethiopia. Methods: A hospital-based prospective study was conducted from 2018 to 2019 at Addis Ababa and Amhara region referral hospitals. Antimicrobial resistance tests were performed on 57 isolates of S. pneumoniae that were collected from pediatric and adult patients. Samples (cerebrospinal fluid, blood, sputum, eye discharge, ear discharge, pleural and peritoneal fluids) from all collection sites were initially cultured onto 5 % sheep blood agar plates and incubated overnight at 370C in 5% CO2 atmosphere. S. pneumoniae was identified and confirmed by typical colony morphology, alpha-hemolysis, Gram staining, optochin susceptibility and bile solubility test. Drug resistance testing was performed using E-test method according to recommendations of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute.Results: Of the 57 isolates, 17.5% were fully resistant to penicillin. Corresponding value for both cefotaxime and ceftriaxone was 1.8%. Resistance rates to erythromycin, clindamycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole were 59.6%, 17.5%, 38.6%, 17.5% and 24.6%, respectively. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was seen in 33.3% isolates. The most common pattern was co-resistance to penicillin, erythromycin, clindamycin and tetracycline.Conclusions: Most bacterial isolates were susceptible to Ceftriaxone and Cefotaxime. Penicillin has been used as a drug of choice for treating S. pneumoniae infection. However, antimicrobial resistance including multidrug resistance was observed to a number of commonly used antibiotics including penicillin. Hence, it is important to periodically monitor the antibiotic resistance patterns to choose empirical treatments for better management of pneumococcal infection.
Consequences of Ignoring Clustering in Linear Regression
Authors: Ntani Georgia , Inskip Hazel , Osmond Clive , Coggon David
Published: November 2020

BackgroundClustering of observations is a common phenomenon in epidemiological and clinical research. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of using multilevel analysis to account for such clustering, but in practice, methods ignoring clustering are often used. We used simulated data to explore the circumstances in which failure to account for clustering in linear regression analysis could lead to importantly erroneous conclusions. MethodsWe simulated data following the random-intercept model specification under different scenarios of clustering of a continuous outcome and a single continuous or binary explanatory variable. We fitted random-intercept (RI) and cluster-unadjusted ordinary least squares (OLS) models and compared the derived estimates of effect, as quantified by regression coefficients, and their estimated precision. We also assessed the extent to which coverage by 95% confidence intervals and rates of Type I error were appropriate. ResultsWe found that effects estimated from OLS linear regression models that ignored clustering were on average unbiased. The precision of effect estimates from the OLS model was overestimated when both the outcome and explanatory variable were continuous. By contrast, in linear regression with a binary explanatory variable, in most circumstances, the precision of effects was somewhat underestimated by the OLS model. The magnitude of bias, both in point estimates and their precision, increased with greater clustering of the outcome variable, and was influenced also by the amount of clustering in the explanatory variable. The cluster-unadjusted model resulted in poor coverage rates by 95% confidence intervals and high rates of Type I error especially when the explanatory variable was continuous. ConclusionsIn this study we identified situations in which an OLS regression model is more likely to affect statistical inference, namely when the explanatory variable is continuous, and its intraclass correlation coefficient is higher than 0.01. Situations in which statistical inference is less likely to be affected have also been identified.
Osteoarthritic Infrapatellar Fat Pad Aggravates Cartilage Degradation via Activation of p38MAPK and ERK1/2 Pathways
Authors: Zhou Zuoqing , Tang Su'an , Nie Xiaoyu , Zhang Yiqun , Li Delong , Zhao Yang , Cao Yumei , Yin Jianwen , Chen Tianyu , Ruan Guangfeng , Zhu Zhaohua , Bai Xiaochun , Han Weiyu , Ding Changhai
Published: November 2020

Background: Although existing studies have suggested the involvement of the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) during the development of knee osteoarthritis (OA), the role of IPFP is still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the biochemical effects of osteoarthritic IPFP on cartilage and the underlying mechanisms.Methods: Human IPFP and articular cartilage were collected from end-stage OA patients during total knee arthroplasty. IPFP derived fat-conditioned medium (FCM) was used to stimulate human primary chondrocytes and cartilage explants. CCK8 was used to detect the viability of human chondrocyte. qRT-PCR and western blotting was performed to evaluate the balance of extracellular matrix (ECM) catabolism and anabolism in human chondrocytes with FCM stimulation. Functional effect of osteoarthritic IPFP was also demonstrated in human articular cartilage by ex vivo assay. Activation of relative pathways and its effects on chondrocytes were assessed through immunoblotting and inhibition experiments, respectively. Neutralization test was performed to identify the main factors and their associated pathways responsible for the effects of IPFP. Results: Osteoarthritic IPFP-derived FCM significantly induced extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation in both human primary chondrocytes and cartilage explants. Several pathways, such as NF-κB, mTORC1, p38MAPK, JNK, and ERK1/2 signaling were significantly activated in human chondrocytes with osteoarthritic IPFP-derived FCM stimulation. Interestingly, inhibition of p38MAPK and ERK1/2 signaling pathway could alleviate the detrimental effects of FCM on chondrocytes while inhibition of other signaling pathways had no similar results. In addition, IL-1β and TNF-α instead of IL-6 in osteoarthritic IPFP-derived FCM played a key role in cartilage degradation via activating p38MAPK rather than ERK1/2 signaling pathway.Conclusions: Osteoarthritic IPFP induces the degradation and inflammation of cartilage via activation of p38MAPK and ERK1/2 pathways, in which IL-1β and TNF-α act as the key factors. Our study suggests that modulating the effects of IPFP on cartilage may be a promising strategy for knee OA intervention.
Association of the X-chromosomal hsa_circ_0140271 with Female Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Chen Yufeng , XU Xianghe , Li Xuegang , Shang Jie , Jiang Ning , Wang Bin , Wu Biao , Zhong Junlong , Zhong Shuping , Lu Huading
Published: November 2020

Background:Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) commonly affects women. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be related RA progress. However, it is still unknown the role of circRNA in female RA. Methods: In this study, we extracted total RNA of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from four RA patients and four healthy control donors, then performed RNA sequencing analysis. To validation, we recruited PBMC samples from 47 RA patients and 47 healthy control donors. The diagnosis ability of candidate circRNA in female RA was explored by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Levels of inflammation factors in serum, such as IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8,TNF-α and INF-γ, were detected in female RA patients and female healthy donors to analysis the correlation between those factors and candidate circRNA. KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were also performed to predict function of candidate circRNA.Resuluts: By analyzing circRNA expression profiles, we identified hsa_circ_0140271, generated from X chromosome gene-MED14, was specifically expressed in female RA patients. We verified hsa_circ_0140271 expression in PBMC samples from a cohort of 47 RA patients and 47 healthy control subjects via RT-qPCR and found hsa_circ_0140271 was also specifically highly expressed in female RA. In addition, ROC curve analysis indicated that the specificity of hsa_circ_0140271 in female RA patients was 1 comparing to female healthy subjects, osteoarthritis (OA) patients or Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients. Levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α was higher in serum from female RA patients than that from female healthy subjects. Furthermore, KEGG analysis indicated that hsa_circ_0140271 might regulate fatty acid metabolism in female RA patients.Conclusion:Our results suggested that hsa_circ_0140271 has a potential role in detect female RA and may contribute RA progress by fatty acid metabolism.
Thread Migration After Polydioxanone Thread Lift
Authors: Jeong Tae Kwang , Chung Chang Ho , Min Kyung Hee
Published: November 2020

Background: The thread-lift has gained popular interest as a minimally invasive procedure because it is simple and reliable. Additionally, it has shorter recovery time and fewer complications than facelift surgery. However, complications including hematoma, infection, facial asymmetry, thread exposure, thread migration, dimpling, alopecia, parotid gland injury, and scarring can occur. We report a case of thread migration after a polydioxanone (PDO) thread lift.Case presentation: A 40-year-old woman underwent a thread lift using a PDO cogged thread. Insertion sites were marked along the temporal hairline. The expected distal ends of threads were marked at least 1.5 cm apart from the nasolabial and marionette folds and 2.5 cm apart from the mandibular border. All threads were inserted into the deep subcutaneous plane. After 1 month, she complained of a foreign body sensation and pain just lateral to the left mouth corner. She showed a linear elevation with oblique direction, and a linear material was palpated with little mobility. The removed material was confirmed to be a part of the inserted thread.Conclusion:During thread lift, it is important to remove the cannula gently and straightly to avoid breaking the thread. Also, it is better to avoid strong manual massage on the path of the thread.
Clinical Evidence of Vestibular Dysregulation in Colicky Babies Before and After Chiropractic Treatment Compared to Non-Colicky Babies.
Authors: Hoeve Jan
Published: November 2020

Aim: to present a five-point clinical index of vestibular (hyper)activity and its application as a tool to investigate vestibular dysregulation in colicky and non-colicky babies.Methods: 120 consecutive colicky babies, before and after treatment, were evaluated using this index and compared to 117 non-colicky babies.Results. Before treatment out of 120 colicky babies 118 (98.3%) scored 1-5 and only 2 (1.7%) scored 0. Out of 117 non-colicky babies 89 (76,1%) scored 0 and 28 (23.9%) scored 1-3, none scored 4-5. Odds ratios are OR (CI 95%) 187.54 (43.52-808.09). After treatment 111 (92.5%) scored 0 and 9 (7.5%) scored 1-3, none scored 4-5. A McNemar test showed the difference before and after to be significant (χ² = 109.00, p < .001). For colicky babies the mean vestibular score is 2.88(SD 1.22), compared to 0.37(SD 0.73) for non-colicky babies, a difference of 87.2%. After treatment the score decreased from 2.88 (SD 1.12) to 0.10 (SD 0.40), or 96.5%. Conclusion: colicky babies are not just infants who cry a lot. They also show clinical evidence of vestibular dysregulation. The vestibular index opens the prospect that it could be developed into a tool towards an objective clinical diagnosis of infantile colic.
NPAS4 Polymorphisms Contribute to Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Risk
Authors: Yan Yuping , Yin Xiangli , Li Jingjie , Sun Yao , Wu Jiamin , Xiong Zichao , Tian Gang
Published: November 2020

Background: As genetic inheritance is an inevitable risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease (CHD), it is critical to identify the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) locus of CHD risk. This case-control study exported whether the NPAS4 polymorphisms are related to the CHD risk in the Chinese Han population. Methods: The Agena MassARRAY platform was used to genotype the five SNPs in NPAS4 from 499 CHD patients and 500 healthy controls. We used χ2 test to compare the distributions of gender, allele and genotypes frequencies between cases and controls. The logistic regression analysis was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Results: The rs4466842 in NPAS4 was found to be correlated with an increased risk of CHD in overall, males and age ≤ 60. The rs117186164 and rs12785321 in NPAS4 were significantly related to an increased risk of CHD in the male and the age ≤ 60, respectively. Moreover, the haplotype AC (rs117186164 and rs4466842) in NPAS4 was significantly correlated with an increased risk of CHD. Conclusions: Our results indicated that polymorphisms (rs117186164, rs12785321, and rs4466842) in NPAS4 were significantly correlated with increased the risk of CHD in the Chinese Han population. Further association and functional studies are required to confirm the results and investigate the role of this SNP in the development of CHD.
Echocardiographic Characteristics and Prognosis of the Fetuses with Ebstein Anomaly in Pregnancy
Authors: Wu Yuduo , Gu Xiaoyan , Zhang Hongjia , He Yihua
Published: November 2020

Objective: This study aimed to describe the fetal echocardiographic features of Ebstein anomaly (EA) and evaluate the prognosis of those fetuses.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 53 fetuses with EA. They were enrolled from January 2011 to December 2018 in Beijing Anzhen Hospital and analyzed the fetuses' ultrasonic features and prognosis. Results: In this single-institutional study, we screened 53 fetuses during 23~39 weeks of gestation with EA. In these fetuses, patients with complications accounted for a more significant percentage (69.81%). Ultrasound imaging showed that the posterior lobe shifted down further than the septal leaflets, and the anterior lobe changed less than 50%. Severe tricuspid valve (TV) regurgitation showed the highest proportion in these fetuses (56.60%). Among the enrolled fetuses, 20 cases were classified into grade -Ⅱ, 40 cases (75.47%) were inducted, and 13 cases (24.5%) were continued pregnancy. However, only one of those fetuses successful delivery. Conclusion: Echocardiography has become an essential diagnostic tool in identifying fetuses with EA. The prognosis of the fetuses with EA is relatively low in our center. Therefore, understanding the echocardiographic characteristics and the prognosis of the fetuses with EA is of great value for pregnancy consultations during the perinatal period.