bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concentrated Raw Fibers Enhance the Fiber-Degrading Capacity of a Synthetic Human Gut Microbiome
Authors: Steimle Alexander , Neumann Mareike , Grant Erica , Turner Jonathan D , Desai Mahesh S
Published: June 2021

Consumption of prebiotic fibers to modulate the human gut microbiome is a promising strategy to positively impact health. Nevertheless, given the compositional complexity of the microbiome and its inter-individual variances, generalized recommendations on the source or amount of fiber supplements remain vague. This problem is further compounded by availability of tractable in vitro and in vivo models to validate certain fibers. We employed a gnotobiotic mouse model containing an a priori characterized 14-member synthetic human gut microbiome (SM) for their ability to metabolize a suit of fibers in vitro; the SM contains 14 different strains belonging to five distinct phyla. Since soluble purified fibers have been a common subject of studies, we specifically investigated the effects of concentrated raw fibers (CRFs)—containing fibers from pea, oat, psyllium, wheat and apple—on the compositional and functional alterations in the SM. We demonstrate that, compared to a fiber-free diet, CRF supplementation increased the abundance of fiber-degraders namely Eubacterium rectale, Roseburia intestinalis and Bacteroides ovatus and decreased the abundance of the mucin-degrader Akkermansia muciniphila. These results were corroborated by a general increase of bacterial fiber-degrading α-glucosidase enzyme activity. Overall, our results highlight the ability of CRFs to enhance the microbial fiber-degrading capacity.
Evaluating the Potential Health Impact of Obtrusive Light: Application to Montréal, Canada
Authors: Aubé Martin , Houle Julien-Pierre , Desmarais Justine , Veilleux Nikki , Bordeleau Émie
Published: June 2021

This paper describes the use of a new obtrusive light module of the Illumina v2 model to estimate the light that may enter bedroom windows. We used as input to the model, 1- the sources’ flux and spectrum derived from the color images taken by astronauts from the international space station, 2- an association between source spectrum and angular emission, and 3- a per zone inventory of obstacles properties and lamp height. The model calculate the spectral irradiance incident to buildings’ windows taking into account for the orientation of the street. By using the color information from an ISS image, we can classify pixels as a function of their spectra. With the same image, it is also possible to determine the upward photopic radiance for each pixel. Both serve as inputs to the model to calculate the spectral irradiance on any window. By having the spectral irradiance, it is possible to determine the Melatonin Suppression Index and the photopic irradiance on the window. Such information can later be used to perform epidemiological studies. The new methodology is applied to the case of Montréal in Canada for a set of houses’ locations. The computations are made for 2013 (pre-LED era).
TPACK of Prospective Mathematics Teachers at an Early Stage of Training
Authors: Morales-López Yuri , Chacón-Camacho Yerlin , Vargas-Delgado Wilbert
Published: June 2021

The objective of this work is to present the results of an investigation on the technological, pedagogical and content knowledge evidenced by mathematics teachers in the second-level of initial training (preservice) at the Universidad Nacional, from the TPACK model perspective, on the subject of functions. The research has a qualitative approach with an interpretive hermeneutical stance. A sample of 27 teachers in training who were enrolled in courses related to the three base domains of the TPACK model (pedagogical, technological and content of quadratic function) during the first semester (I cycle) of 2020 was used. A theoretical inquiry was carried out that allowed the creation of an instrument that made possible the description of the participants’ knowledge based on this model focused on the topic of quadratic function. The results show that participants possess instrumental dominance over the basic forms of knowledge underlying the model. It is concluded that, although participants have already experimented in courses related to these forms of knowledge, there is insufficient evidence to ascertain that their current knowledge would allow them to integrate technologies as a didactic resource within the teaching of the subject of quadratic function.
Dendrogramic Representation of Data: CHSH-Violation vs. Nonergodicity
Authors: Shor Oded , Khrennikov Andrei , Benninger Felix
Published: June 2021

This paper is devoted to the foundational problems of dendrogramic holographic theory (DH-theory). We use the ontic-epistemic (implicate-explicate order) methodology. The epistemic counterpart is based on representation of data by dendrograms constructed with hierarchic clustering algorithms. The ontic Universe is described as the p-adic tree; it is zero dimensional, totally disconnected, disordered, and bounded (in p-adic ultrametric). Interrelation classical-quantum loses its sharpness; generally simple dendrograms are ``more quantum’’ than complex one. We use the CHSH-inequality as a measure of quantum(-likeness). We demonstrate that it can be violated by classical experimental data represented by dendrograms. The seed of this violation is neither nonlocality nor rejection of realism. This is nonergodicity of dendrogramic time series. Generally, violation of ergodicity is one of the basic features of DH-theory. We also consider DH-theory for Minkovski geometry and monitor the dependence of CHSH-violation and nonergodicity on geometry as well as a Lorentz transformation of data.
Incidence and Characteristics of Retinoblastoma in Poland: The First Nationwide Study 2010-2017
Authors: Nowak Michał Szymon , Romanowska-Dixon Bożena , Grabska-Liberek Iwona , Żurek Michał
Published: June 2021

Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular paediatric eye cancer. It accounts for approximately 11% of primary cancers occurring in the first age of life, with 95% of diagnoses before 5 years of age [1-3]. Since retinoblastoma is very aggressive, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are vital for children to preserve their sight and life. In western countries in Europe and North America, retinoblastoma is diagnosed early so the chances of saving the patient’s life and preserving vision are good. However, in large regions of Africa and Asia, where the diagnosis of retinoblastoma is delayed, the deadly effect is observed [2-5]. In these regions, socioeconomic factors and poor recognition of the seriousness of the disease result in a high mortality rate of up to 70%. At the same time, the mortality rate in Europe and North America is 3-5 % [2]. Besides, the incidence of retinoblastoma also varies by race and region, from 40 to 60 per million live births, which corresponds to 1 per 16,000 - 24,000 live births, with the greatest disease burden recorded in the countries of Asia and Africa where the highest birth rates are recorded [2,3 However, the nationwide studies of the retinoblastoma epidemiology have been conducted in many countries, such as Sweden, Finland, Netherlands, Singapore, Great Britain, United States of America, Korea and Taiwan, there is a lack of data from Eastern European countries like Poland [1,3-11]. The management of retinoblastoma may also differ between developed and developing countries. The current strategy of retinoblastoma treatment aims to save the life, eye, vision and cosmetics of the child, in order of priority. Medical management of retinoblastoma includes surgical treatment (enucleation), external beam radiotherapy, systemic chemotherapy with or without focal therapies such as cryotherapy, laser photocoagulation and plaque radiotherapy. Recently, intra-arterial and intravitreal chemotherapies have been used to treat retinoblastoma with the ability to save globes that otherwise would have been enucleated [2,3]. The present study aimed to investigate the incidence and characteristics of retinoblastoma in the overall population of Poland in the years 2010-2017 and to report the changes that occurred during that period.
Migration of Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells during Wound Healing
Authors: Sorrell J. Michael , Somoza Rodrigo A. , Baber Marilyn A. , Kenyon Jonathan , Caplan Arnold I.
Published: June 2021

Bone marrow derived adult human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) possess therapeutic qualities that enable them to enhance wound repair. However, the mechanisms by which this occurs remains poorly understood. Basic mechanisms may include the directed migration of delivered cells to target sites and/or the production and release of soluble factors that act at a distance. Allogeneic and even xenogeneic cells may effectively participate in wound repair. Labeled hMSCs were delivered to full-thickness skin wounds that were created in immunologically competent mice. The delivery occurred on day 3 post-wounding using two different carriers; one which released cells and one which retained cells. The fates of the delivered cells were tracked for up to 25 days. During this period, released cells migrated as a tight cohort deep into the wound to reach the subdermal vascular plexus. Simultaneously, enhanced formation of granulation tissue was evident. This migration of hMSCs was not essential in that enhanced granulation tissue formation and wound contraction occurred when cells were retained in the carrier matrix. This provided further evidence for the release of therapeutic factors by hMSCs to sites of injury.
Urine LOX-1 and Volatilome as Promising Tools towards Early Detection of Renal Cancer
Authors: Murdocca Michela , Torino Francesco , Pucci Sabina , Costantini Manuela , Capuano Rosamaria , Greggi Chiara , Polidoro Chiara , Somma Giuseppina , Pasqualetti Valentina , Ketchanji Mougang Yolande , Catini Alexandro , Simone Giuseppe , Paolesse Roberto , Orlandi Augusto , Mauriello Alessandro , Roselli Mario , Magrini Andrea , Novelli Giuseppe , Natale Corrado Di , Sangiuolo Federica Carla
Published: June 2021

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) represents around 3% of all cancers, within which clear cell RCC (ccRCC) are the most common type (70–75%). The RCC disease regularly progresses asymptomatically and upon presentation is recurrently metastatic, so an early method of detection is necessary. The identification of one or more spe-cific biomarkers measurable in biofluids (i.e urine) by combined approaches could surely be appropriate for this kind of cancer, especially due to easy obtainability by non invasive method. OLR1 is a metabolic gene that encodes for the Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein re-ceptor-1 (LOX-1), implicated in inflammation, atherosclerosis, ROS and metabolic disor-der-associated carcinogenesis. Specifically, LOX-1 is clearly involved in tumor insurgence and progression of different human cancers. This work reports for the first time the presence of LOX-1 protein in ccRCC urine and its peculiar distribution in tumoral tissues. In parallel, urine samples headspace has been analyzed for the presence of the volatile compounds (VOCs) by SPME-GC/MS and gas sensor array. In particular, it was found by GC/MS analysis that 2-Cyclohexen-1-one,3-methyl-6-(1-methylethyl)- correlates with LOX-1 concentration in urine. Thus, the combined approach of VOCs analysis and protein quantification could led to promis-ing results in terms of diagnostic and prognostic potential for ccRCC tumor.
Use of a Tourniquet and Spinal Anesthesia Increases Satisfactory Outcomes After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Rantasalo Mikko , Palanne Riku , Vakkuri Anne , Olkkola Klaus T. , Madanat Rami , Skants Noora
Published: June 2021

Background:

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is usually performed successfully with or without a tourniquet and under spinal anesthesia (SA) or general anesthesia (GA). However, 10% to 34% of patients experience dissatisfaction and pain after TKA. We aimed to compare the effects of tourniquet use and SA or GA on TKA outcomes.

Methods:

We randomly assigned 404 patients to 4 study groups: SA without a tourniquet (NT/SA), SA with a tourniquet (T/SA), GA without a tourniquet (NT/GA), and GA with a tourniquet (T/GA). The primary outcome was the change in the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) at 1 year postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included a satisfactory TKA outcome assessed using the OKS minimal important change (MIC) and OKS patient acceptable symptom state (PASS), adverse events, and quality of life using the 15-dimensional health-related quality of life tool.

Results:

At 1 year, the OKS was obtained for 381 patients. In the 2-group comparisons, the tourniquet did not affect the OKS improvement. The SA group had more substantial improvement in the OKS than the GA group (16.21 compared with 14.08 a mean difference of 2.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55 to 3.71; p = 0.008). In the 4-group comparisons, the T/SA group had more substantial improvements in the OKS than the NT/GA group (16.87 compared with 13.65, a mean difference of 3.2; 95% CI, 0.28 to 6.17; p = 0.026). The SA group reached the OKS MIC more frequently than the GA group (91.7% compared with 81.7%; odds ratio [OR] = 2.49 [95% CI, 1.32 to 4.69]; p = 0.005). The SA group also reached the OKS PASS more frequently than the GA group (86.0% compared with 75.7%; OR = 2.00 [95% CI, 1.18 to 3.39]; p = 0.010). The T/SA group had significantly more patients reaching the OKS MIC than the NT/GA group (95.7% compared with 79.6%; p = 0.005) and more patients reaching the OKS PASS than the NT/GA group (92.6% compared with 74.5%; p = 0.004). No differences were seen with respect to adverse events in any comparisons.

Conclusions:

The tourniquet had no detrimental effects on the outcomes of TKA. SA had a positive effect on the OKS. The use of SA combined with a tourniquet resulted in the best improvement in OKS and the highest proportion of satisfactory outcomes with TKA.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
A novel laboratory method for the detection and identification of cyanobacteria using hyperspectral imaging : hyperspectral imaging for cyanobacteria detection
Authors: Pokrzywinski Kaytee , Morgan Cliff , Bourne Scott , Reif Molly , Matheson Kenneth , Hammond Shea
Published: June 2021

To assist US Army Corps of Engineers resource managers in monitoring for cyanobacteria bloom events, a laboratory method using hyperspectral imaging has been developed. This method enables the rapid detection of cyanobacteria in large volumes and has the potential to be transitioned to aerial platforms for field deployment. Prior to field data collection, validation of the technology in the laboratory using monocultures was needed. This report describes the development of the detection method using hyperspectral imaging and the stability/reliability of these signatures for identification purposes. Hyperspectral signatures of different cyanobacteria were compared to evaluate spectral deviations between genera to assess the feasibility of using this imaging method in the field. Algorithms were then developed to spectrally deconvolute mixtures of cyanobacteria to determine relative abundances of each species. Last, laboratory cultures of Microcystis aeruginosa and Anabaena sp. were subjected to varying macro (nitrate and phosphate) and micro-nutrient (iron and magnesium) stressors to establish the stability of signatures within each species. Based on the findings, hyperspectral imaging can be a valuable tool for the detection and monitoring of cyanobacteria. However, it should be used with caution and only during stages of active growth for accurate identification and limited interference owing to stress.
Industrialization, Servicification And Environmental Kuznets Curve: Non-Linear Panel Regression Analysis
Authors: Taşdemir Fatma
Published: June 2021

This paper investigates whether the impact of income on CO2 emissions is invariant to endogenously estimated threshold levels for the economic structure (ES) represented by value added in manufacturing, industry and services sector shares in GDP for a panel of 54 economies over the 1971–2017 period. Our panel smooth transition regression estimation results strongly suggest that the sensitivity of CO2 emissions to income is substantially much higher in countries with higher manufacturing and industry sector shares whilst it is much lower in servicified economies. Given the argument that manufacturing is the engine of growth, this finding may not necessarily downgrade the crucial importance of an industrial policy which places the manufacturing at the core. The empirical findings in this paper suggest that countries may better to design and implement a strategic and systematic industrial policy which promote the use of emission reduction technologies and encourage manufacturing and industrial sectors with lower carbon emissions.
Green Remediation And Physiological Responses of Plants To Metal-Contaminated Soils In Jinchang Mining Areas, Western Desert, China
Authors: Li Changming , Tai Xisheng , Chang Guohua , Wan Zidong , Fu Jingwen , Wang Xueying , Zuo Mingbo , Liu Yuan , Gao Tianpeng
Published: June 2021

Jinchang mining area, as a metal mine with a long history of arid and semi-arid mining in western China, has brought a great risk of heavy metal pollution to the local environment. In this experiment, tailings, slag and native soil are mixed in equal proportions for the pot experiment settings. 9 species of sand plants unique to the arid region of the western inland were planted to screen the varieties with green remediation value. After six months of plant growth, the concentration of Zn in the plant was the highest, ranging from 103.27 to 467.63mg/kg, followed by Cu, ranging from 25.07 to 200.35mg/kg. In the early stage (2 months), POD was the main defense, and in the later stage (4\6 months), SOD and CAT were the main defense, accompanied by unknown proteins up-regulated. The results of net photosynthetic rate showed that it was inhibited by metal stress in the early stage, and it was high in the late stage to provide material basis for the accumulation and secretion of adaptable and resistant substances. Seven species of plants, such as Suaeda glauca, Bassia scoparia, Halogeton glomeratus, Kalidium foliatum, Medicago falcata, Atriplex canescens, Artemisia desertorum can be used as enrichment materials for Zn and Cu. While, Atriplex canescens has the highest metal enrichment potential, and can be used as a planting variety to enrich Cd, Ni and Pb in a broad spectrum of metals including Zn and Cu. This study lays a solid scientific foundation for green remediation of contaminated soil in arid desert area of western China.
Surfactant Protein D Gene Polymorphism was Associated with the Susceptibility of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Case Control Study
Authors: Xu Jingwei , Chen Yi , Tang Liangfang , Teng Xinyuan , Feng Lin , Jin Ligui , Wang Guirong , Wang Liquan
Published: June 2021

BackgroundSurfactant protein D (SP-D) is a critical component of the innate immune system intrinsically linked to energetic metabolism. However, the relationship of SP-D gene polymorphisms and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remains unclear yet. In this study, we analyzed SP-D gene polymorphisms in GDM patients and non-diabatic controls, and then determined the association of SP-D gene polymorphisms with GDM.MethodsWe examined a common genetic polymorphism located in the SP-D coding region (rs721917, Met31Thr) with GDM patients (n = 147) and healthy pregnant controls (n = 97) by using a PCR-RFLP technique. The level of SP-D protein in serum of GDM patients and non-diabetic controls was determined by ELISA method. The gene and allele frequencies od SP-D and their association with GDM as well as SP-D protein level were analyzed using SPSS software.ResultsWe found that there exists a significant association of the SP-D polymorphism (rs721917) with GDM. SP-D (T/T) genotype had 11.6% and 21.6% in GDM and matched healthy controls, respectively (P<0.05); indicating women with (T/T) genotype have lower prevalence of GDM (OR = 0.473). Women with T/C genotypes showed an increased risk of GDM (OR = 2.440). We did not observe corrections between glucose homeostasis markers and SP-D genotypes in the women patients with GDM. Furthermore, serum SP-D level was higher in the GDM compared to matched healthy controls.ConclusionsThis study has found the first evidence that SP-D gene polymorphism (rs721917) was associated with GDM, which may provide the basis for further study how SP-D plays a regulatory role in GDM.
COVID-19 in the Intravitreal Injection (IVI) Procedure at a Spanish Urban Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Fernández Jonathan Jesús Cancelliere , García María Muxima Patricia Acebes , Sánchez Francisco Javier Moreno-Alemán , González-Guijarro J. Jacobo
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To describe the rate of COVID-19 in intravitreal injection (IVI) procedure at the onset of the pandemic.Methods: This transversal, observational and retrospective study included patients treated with IVI, in 3 groups. A: from February 20 to March 15, 2020, a period prior to lockdown and the first preventive measures against viral transmission. B: from March 16 to May 3, after the start of both, and C: from May 4 to June 19, after lockdown. Age, sex, diagnosis, drug, IVI laterality, visual acuity, percentage of single eyes, date of COVID-19 diagnosis, incidence among the Hospital attended population and number of COVID-19 patients admitted daily, were collected.Results: 1049 patients were treated, 564 (53.7%) on two or more occasions. COVID-19 rate was 1.51% (8/529) in group A, 0.21% (1/469) in B and 0% in C (0/926) (p=0.0001). The highest incidence peak x105 inhabitants and the mean daily admission rate, for the periods corresponding to the three groups, were 93.70/7.70 (SD 7.32), 418.72/27.83 (SD 24.68) and 24.58/2.28 (SD 1.97), respectively.Conclusion: The favourable trend in the COVID-19 rate among our patients, after implementing preventive measures against viral transmission, may assist in adequately planning IVI procedure in the future.
β2-adrenoceptor Activation Stimulates IL-6 Production via PKA, ERK1/2, Src, and Beta-arrestin2 Signaling Pathways in Human Bronchial Epithelia
Authors: Zhang Rui Gang , Niu Ya , Pan Ke Wu , Pang Hao , Chen Chung Ling , Yip Chung Yin , KO WING HUNG
Published: June 2021

Background: β 2 -adrenoceptor agonists are widely used to treat asthma because of their bronchial-dilation effects. However, a recent study describing a side effect of aggravating eosinophilic inflammation in the mouse airway epithelia by β 2 -adrenoceptor agonists could impact the future clinical use of these bronchodilators. We previously reported that isoprenaline, via the apical and basolateral β 2 -adrenoceptor, induced Cl - secretion by activating cyclic AMP (cAMP)-dependent pathways in human bronchial epithelia. Despite these results, whether and how the β 2 -adrenoceptor-mediated cAMP-dependent pathway contributes to pro-inflammatory cytokine release in human bronchial epithelia remains poorly understood.Methods: We investigated β 2 -adrenoceptor-mediated signaling pathways involved in the production of two pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8, in 16HBE14o- human bronchial epithelia. The effects of isoprenaline or formoterol were assessed in the presence of protein kinase A (PKA), exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC), Src, and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK)1/2 inhibitors. The involvement of b-arrestin2 was examined using siRNA knockdown. Results: Both isoprenaline and formoterol (both β 2 agonists) induced IL-6, but not IL-8, release, which could be inhibited by ICI 118551 (β 2 antagonist). The PKA-specific inhibitor, H89, partially inhibited IL-6 release. Another intracellular cAMP receptor, EPAC, was not involved in IL-6 release. Isoprenaline-mediated IL-6 secretion was attenuated by dasatinib, a Src inhibitor, and PD98059, an ERK1/2 inhibitor. Isoprenaline treatment also led to ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In addition, knockdown of β-arrestin2 by siRNA specifically suppressed cytokine release when a high concentration of isoprenaline (1 mM) was used. Conclusion: Our results suggest that activation of the β 2 -adrenoceptor in 16HBE14o- cells stimulated the PKA/Src/ERK1/2 and/or β-arrestin2 signaling pathways, leading to IL-6 release. Therefore, our data reveal that β 2 -adrenoceptor signaling plays a role in the immune regulation of human airway epithelia.
Combined Opioid Free and Loco-Regional Anesthesia Enhances the Quality of Recovery in Sleeve Gastrectomy Done Under ERAS Protocol: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed , Elnabtity Ali M , Hegab Ahmed , Alnujaidi Omar A. , Sanea Osama El
Published: June 2021

Background: There is still debate as to whether opioid-free anaesthsia (OFA) may offer additional benefit over multimodal analgesia to better achieve the goals of ERAS(Enhanced recovery after surgery) in bariatric surgery.Patients and method: Patients in the OFA group (n=51) were pre-medicated with IV dexmedetomidine 0.1 µg.kg-1 then induced with propofol (2 mg. kg-1) -ketamine (0.5 mg. kg-1) mixture and maintained on dexmedetomidine 0.5µg. kg-1.h-1, ketamine 0.5 mg.kg-1.h-1, and lidocaine 1 mg. kg-1.h-1. Patients in the MMA(Multimodal analgesia) group (n= 52) were induced using IV propofol 2 mg. kg-1, and fentanyl 1 µg. kg-1. Cisatracurium (0.15 mg.kg-1) was given to all patients for muscle relaxation. Ultrasound-guided bilateral oblique subcostal transverse abdominis plane (OSTAP) block was performed in all patients. The postoperative quality of recovery at 6 and 24 hours was measured as a primary outcome. Postoperative pain control; subsequent opioid consumption; time to ambulate; time to tolerate oral fluid; and time to readiness for discharge were measured as secondary outcomes Results: The total QoR-40 (quality of recovery-40) scores at 6 hours were significantly higher in the OFA group (184.84 versus 180.69 in the MMA group with an estimated difference in mean of -4.15, 95% CI, -5.78 to -2.5, and P ˂0.001. The OFA group tolerated oral fluid intake earlier (194.94, 95% CI, 162.59 to 227.30) versus (273, 95% CI, 223.65 to 322.27) for the MMA group (p value=0.009). Readiness for discharge was significantly quicker in the OFA group (447.49, 95% CI, 409.69 to 485.29 versus 544.56, 95% CI, 503.08 to 586.04 in the MMA group, P-value =0.001). The post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) (0 Hour) and the floor 2 and 6-hour numerical rating scales (NRS) for pain were significantly higher in the MMA group. The OFA group needed less opioid rescue analgesia in the PACU and at 24-hours (P value= 0.003 and 0.014; respectively).Conclusion: Combined Opioid free and loco-regional anesthesia provides better early recovery with reduced postoperative pain intensity, and opioid consumption when compared to multimodal analgesia; and is better suited to achieve the goals of ERAS protocol.Clinical trial number: registration number NCT04285255.
Contribution of Statistical Iterative Reconstruction Algorithm For Orthopaedic Applications: A Study With A Cone-Beam CT Prototype
Authors: Uk Stéphanie , Morin Fanny , Bousson Valerie , Nizard Rémy , Bernard Guillaume , Chappard Christine
Published: June 2021

Three-dimensional reconstruction for image-guidance in orthopaedic surgery necessitates a high degree of geometrical precision but not necessary structure details. With the aim to reduce as much as possible the dose, a cone beam CT prototype was tested with decreasing intensities, the number of projections or different angular range. We tested two methods of reconstruction: classical Feldkamp-Davis-Kress (FDK) reconstruction and the Simultaneous Algebraic Reconstruction Technic with Total Variation (SART-TV). Based on this protocol, on a knee cadaveric specimen, we combined qualitative assessment performed by radiologists and orthopedic surgeons, objective metrics of image quality such as signal-to-noise ratio, or related to bone geometric contour, grey level restitution and texture of trabecular bone, and finally the quality of joint space segmentation. Objective indicators related to signal-to-noise ratio, the quality of geometry and segmentation have shown better results for SART-TV than FDK in case of decrease projections number and angular range. On the contrary, qualitative assessment, and indexes about grey level restitution and textural quality of trabecular bone produced the best results for FDK reconstruction. These results showed that SART-TV reconstruction has a good capability to restore the geometry in case of low dose protocol and consequently could be a good candidate for orthopaedic surgery.
Factors associated with screening for preeclampsia in the Democratic Republic of Congo: evidence from a nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Nkamba Dalau Mukadi , Wembodinga Gilbert , Bernard Pierre , Robert Annie
Published: June 2021

BackgroundDelays in identification of women with preeclampsia is a contributing factor to maternal deaths in developing countries. We conducted this study to assess the prevalence of screening for preeclampsia in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and to identify factors associated with the screening. Methods We used data from the 2017-2018 DRC Service Provision Assessment survey, a nationwide survey that samples services, including antenatal care (ANC), in representative health facilities. A pregnant woman was deemed screened for preeclampsia if she had received the two following services: blood pressure measurement and assessment for warning signs of preeclampsia. We used multiple logistic regression, with generalized estimating equations, to identify factors associated with screening for preeclampsia.ResultsOf the 3763 pregnant women, 719 (19.1%; 95% CI, 15.8% – 22.9%) were screened for preeclampsia, 815 (21.7%; 95% CI, 18.2% - 25.6%) were assessed for preeclampsia-related warning signs and symptoms, and 2941 (78.2%; 95% CI 73.6 – 82.1%) had their blood pressure checked.In multivariable analyses, the percentage of women receiving screening for preeclampsia was significantly higher among women with a secondary level of schooling or above (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.21; 95% CI, 1.04-1.42; P=0.016) and among women having a subsequent ANC visit (AOR = 1.39; 95% CI, 1.20-1.62; P<0.001). It was also higher among women receiving care in facilities with a low number of women attended per day (AOR = 1.28; 95% CI, 1.09-1.51; P=0.003) and in urban settings (AOR = 1.36; 95% CI, 1.02-1.82; P=0.036). There was a regional variation in the screening for preeclampsia, with the lowest prevalence observed in the Central (10.7%) and the highest in the Eastern provinces (22.5%). ConclusionOur study shows that screening for preeclampsia during ANC visits in DRC is not systematic, with disparities between provinces. We found that a low schooling level, a low number of ANC visits, rural areas, province of residence, and a high volume of ANC visits at the facility were associated with a low screening for preeclampsia. These factors should be considered for setting up strategies in order to increase the screening for preeclampsia during ANC visits in provinces of DRC with too low screening.
Chemoautotrophy at the Expense of Thiosulphate: A Supplementary Nutritional Source to the Mangrove Clam-Polymesoda Erosa
Authors: Thomas TresaRemya A , Singh Tanya , Kalaimani Tamil S , Khadge Nandakumar H , Shivaramu Mamatha S , Gonsalves Maria-Judith B-D , Adhikesavan LokaBharathi P
Published: June 2021

Chemolithoautotrophy is a primordial process, where chemical energy converts inorganic carbon to organic. The prevalence of chemosynthesis was examined in the mangrove clam, Polymesoda erosa, and the ambient sediment at Chorao Island, Mandovi estuary, Goa. The sediment system is reducing, organically rich, high in electron donors, acceptors, and inorganic carbon. This clam thrives by immersing 75-90% of its body in sulfidic sediments. Hence, it is hypothesized that it could have an adaptive mechanism like microbially mediated utilization of reduced sulfur compound, S2O32- (model compound) coupled to inorganic carbon uptake. During spawning, maximum carbonate uptake rates of 449 and 594 nmole C g dry wt-1 h-1 were recorded in the gill and foot, respectively. Next generation sequencing revealed that Thiothrix and other sulfur oxidizers gathered from ambient sediment were present in gill, mantle and foot in the ratio 1:3:14 and 1:5:6, respectively. It is inferred that the clam and these associated bacteria could make an important contribution to chemosynthetic carbon fixation. The process could serve as an essential supplementary nutritional source especially during the physiologically feeble spawning phase. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of chemolithoautotrophic process in P. erosa of the family Cyrenidae.
Retinal Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Findings of Acute Anterior Uveitis
Authors: Yalçınkaya Gülay , Altan Çiğdem , Başarır Berna , Çakır İhsan
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the changes in retinal microvasculature in eyes with anterior uveitis (AU) using optical coherence tomography angiography.Methods: Foveal avascular zone (FAZ) of superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP), vessel density (VD) of SCP, DCP, and choriocapillaris, and central macular thickness (CMT) and central foveal thickness (CFT) were calculated from 34 healthy and 41 uveitic eyes. The parameters were compared between the two groups.Results: The deep FAZ was significantly lower in the eyes with AU during the attack than after recovery and the control group (p=0.001 and p=0.003, respectively). The VD in deep capillary plexus (DCP) in eyes with AU during the attack was significantly higher than the control group (p=0.048). The VD in the foveal sector of DCP in eyes with AU during the attack and after recovery was significantly higher than the control group (p=0.001 and p=0.031, respectively). There was no significant difference regarding CMT, CFT, VDs of each segment and each sector, and superficial and deep FAZ between eyes with first uveitis attack and those with recurrent uveitis during the attack and after recovery (p>0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study show that there is a reduction in the FAZ and an increase in the VD of the DCP of the retina during active AU, and these findings are reversible. Acute AU may affect the macular microvasculature, which is usually temporary, especially in the DCP.
EZH2 Inhibition Sensitizes BRCA1-Deficient Breast Cancer to Synthetic Lethal Therapy with ATM Inhibitors
Authors: Ratz Leonie , Brambillasca Chiara , Bartke Leandra , de Ven Marieke van , Proost Natalie , Siteur Bjørn , de Korte-Grimmerink Renske , Bouwman Peter , Pulver Emilia M. , de Bruijn Roebi , Isensee Jörg , Hucho Tim , Pandey Gaurav , Lohuizen Maarten van , Mallmann Peter , Reinhardt Hans Christian , Jonkers Jos , Puppe Julian
Published: June 2021

Background: The majority of BRCA1-mutant breast cancers are characterized by a triple-negative phenotype (TNBC) and a basal-like molecular subtype, associated with aggressive clinical behavior. Current treatment options are limited, highlighting the need for the development of novel targeted therapies for this tumor subtype. Methods: Our group previously showed that EZH2 is functionally relevant in BRCA1-deficient breast tumors and blocking EZH2 enzymatic activity could be a potent treatment strategy. To validate the role of EZH2 as a therapeutic target and to identify new synergistic drug combinations, we performed a high-throughput drug combination screen in various cell lines derived from BRCA1-proficient and deficient - mouse mammary tumors. Results: We identified the combined inhibition of EZH2 and the proximal DNA damage response kinase ATM as a novel synthetic lethality-based therapy for the treatment of BRCA1-deficient breast tumors. We show that the combined treatment with the EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 and the ATM inhibitor AZD1390 led to reduced colony formation, increased genotoxic stress, and apoptosis-mediated cell death in BRCA1-deficient mammary tumor cells in vitro. These findings were corroborated by in vivo experiments showing that simultaneous inhibition of EZH2 and ATM significantly increased anti-tumor activity in mice bearing BRCA1-deficient mammary tumors. Conclusion: Taken together, we identified a synthetic lethal interaction between EZH2 and ATM and propose this synergistic interaction as a novel molecular combination for the treatment of BRCA1-mutant breast cancer.
Sec-O-glucosylhamaudol Inhibits RANKL-induced Osteoclastogenesis Via Repressing 5-LO and AKT/GSK3β Signaling
Authors: Cao Jinjin , Zhou Mingxue , Chen Xinyan , Sun Menglu , Wei Congmin , Peng Qisheng , Cheng Zhou , sun Wanchun , Wang Hongbing
Published: June 2021

BackgroundOsteoclast excessive activation was closely related to bone diseases such as osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Sec-O-glucosylhamaudol (SOG), an active flavonoid compound derived from the root of divaricate Saposhnikovia, was reported to exhibit analgesic, anti-inflammatory and high 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) inhibitory effects. However, its effect on osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption remained unclear.MethodsOsteoclast formation, bone resorption pit area formation and F-actin ring formation were examined by TRAP staining, modified Vonkonsa staining and immunofluorescence, respectively. RT-Realtime PCR assay and western blot analysis were performed. siRNA transfection was conducted to silence the expression of 5-LO in cells. LPS-induced bone-loss mice model was prepared and the left and right femurs were collected for Micro-CT and histomorphometric analysis, respectively.ResultsSOG markedly attenuated RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis through decreasing TRAP activity, F-actin ring formation and bone resorption with reduction of mRNA levels of osteoclastogenesis marker genes such as TRAP, CTSK and DC-STAMP. Our results further indicated that SOG markedly reduced the induction of key transcription factors NFATc1 and c-Fos at both mRNA and protein levels during osteoclastogenesis. In addition, SOG treatment did not alter the transient phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 subunit and MAPKs (p38, ERK1/2 and JNK), AKT and GSK3β by RANKL. Interestingly, our results showed that SOG significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT and GSK3β at middle-late stage of osteoclastogenesis, but did not alter calcineurin catalytic subunit PP2B-Aα expression. GSK3β inhibitor SB415286 could partly reverse inhibition of osteoclastogenesis by SOG. 5-LO knockdown at BMMs also markedly reduced RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis. In consistent with in vitro results，SOG could significantly improve bone destruction in LPS-induced mice model.ConclusionsSOG attenuated formation and function of osteoclast through suppressing AKT-mediated GSK3β inactivation, and 5-LO catalytic activity. Moreover, SOG prevented LPS-induced bone loss in mice through inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. Taken together, this study provided the evidence that SOG may have a potential therapeutic effect on osteoclast-related bone lysis disease.
Characterization of Soil and Rock Hosting an Aquifer in Southeast Panama City using Geotechnical, Geophysical and Geochemical Parameters
Authors: Valoys Ana Cristina González , Vargas-Lombardo Miguel , Jimenez-Ballesta Raimundo , Arrocha Jonatha , Gutiérrez Eric , García-Ordiales Efrén , Cienfuegos Pablo , García-Navarro Francisco , Higueras Pablo
Published: June 2021

The aim of the present study is to assess the combined use of geotechnical and electrical geophysical methods to determine water quality and rocks mechanics in an aquifer. The aquifer studied is located in the Tocumen sector of Panamá City, located to the southeast of city, where there is a need to study the possible use of this aquifer to provide drinking and/or irrigation water based on its quality. To this end, a 10 m well was perforated and sampled to characterize the host soil and rock trough granulometry, determine the Atterberg limits, measure the physicochemical parameters and perform a chemical analysis, including reactivity (pH), electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter content, cation exchange capacity, calcium carbonate, sulfates, chlorides, SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, CaO, MgO, SO3, Na2O and K2O. In addition, a 2D electrical resistivity tomography profile was conducted in order to correlate the electric parameters with the physicochemical and chemical ones and extend them laterally to check the continuity of the characteristics measured. The results show a good correlation between geotechnical, geophysical and chemical parameters, thus highlighting the presence of discontinuities that must be overcome by infiltrated rainwater to reach the deepest levels, which are characterized by the presence of water. The water chemistry varies with depth, with sodium bicarbonated water being the predominant facies.
Assessing The Habitat Suitability of Six Coniferous Forests Using Avian Assemblages At High Altitude Ecosystem
Authors: Rajpar M. N. , Khan S. A. , Ullah S. , Rajpar A.H. , Zakaria M.
Published: June 2021

Birds are habitat specialist, i.e. often selects habitat that offers ample services such as a variety of food resources, safe breeding and less disturb sites to satisfy their needs. We aimed to ascertain the conservation status of avian assemblages inhabited in six different coniferous forests. The study employed the point count method to determine the avian assemblages in each forest type. The surveys were conducted employing the distance sampling point count method and determining the floristic composition through direct visual estimation from January 2018 to March 2019. In total, 2465 bird individuals representing 57 species and 29 families were observed in six coniferous forests. Twelve tree species, nine shrub species, and 14 grass species were identified in the forests. Except for the Streptopelia turtur (vulnerable), all bird species are listed as “least concern” according to the IUCN Red List Category and Criteria 2019–2. Notably, the relative abundance of bird assemblages among six coniferous habitats was significantly different (F5, 293 = 22.8, p < 0.05). The CAP results reflected that bird diversity indices varied coniferous forests. Strikingly, dry–temperate coniferous forest (BG) was densely populated (5.831 ± 0.694 birds•ha−1) as compared to other habitats. These findings suggested that subtropical coniferous forests are cradles of life for a wide array of avian assemblages and hence should be declared as protected forests to enhance avian assemblages in this region.
Hydrogenated Cs2AgBiBr6 for High-Efficient Lead-Free Inorganic Double Perovskite Solar Cell
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Sun Qingde , Lu Yue , Lu Feng , Mu Xulin , Wei Su-Huai , Sui Manling
Published: June 2021

Development of the stable, lead-free inorganic perovskite material is of greatly importance on fabricating the third-generation solar cell. Until now, double perovskite, such as Cs2AgBiBr6, has been proved to be one of the most potential candidates to solve the toxicity and stability issues of traditional lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, due to a wide and indirect bandgap of Cs2AgBiBr6 film, its light absorption ability is largely limited and the photoelectronic conversion efficiency (PCE) is normally lower than 2.5%. In this text, by using a hydrogenation method, the bandgap (Eg) of Cs2AgBiBr6 films could be tunable from 2.14 eV to 1.61 eV. At the same time, the highest PCE of hydrogenated Cs2AgBiBr6 perovskite solar cell has been improved more than 150% up to 6.27%. To the best of our knowledge, this is a record high efficiency of Cs2AgBiBr6-based perovskite solar cell. Further investigations confirmed that the interstitial doping of atomic hydrogen (H*) in Cs2AgBiBr6 lattice could not only adjust its valence and conduction band energy levels, but also optimize the carrier mobility from 1.71 cm2V-1s-1 to 9.28 cm2V-1s-1 and enhance the carrier lifetime from 18.85 ns to 41.86 ns. All these works provide a new strategy to fabricate the high performance lead-free inorganic PSCs.
Survey of the Relationship Between Extroversion and Transition in Cigarette and Hookah Smoking Stages in High School Students in Tabriz: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Pashapour Hadi , Mohammadpoorasl Asghar , Dadashzadeh Hossein , Mousavi Saeid
Published: June 2021

Background: Smoking is a major public health problem that specifically affects the adolescent population health and future. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between extroversion and transition in cigarette and hookah smoking stages in high school students in Tabriz city.Methods: A sample of 2256 high school students aged 15-16 years old in Tabriz was included in the study. Demographic characteristics, cigarette, and hookah smoking status, and Eysenck’s extroversion questionnaires were completed by all students in the selected schools. Eight months later, cigarette and hookah smoking status was assessed again to determine transition in smoking stages. Marginal Homogeneity test was used to compare the smoking status at the beginning and eight months later. The Generalized Estimating Equation method with the ordinal link was applied to estimate the effect of extroversion on transition in smoking stages.Results: The mean (SD) age of the students participating in the study was 15.5 (0.5) years old. Marginal homogeneity test results show that, in general, transmission in the stages of both cigarette and hookah smoking in eight months was significant in students (P-Value <0.0001). Extrovert personality had a significant positive effect on the transition from lower stages to higher cigarette and hookah smoking stages according to GEE with ordinal link (P<0.0001). In cigarette and hookah smoking, extrovert persons transited to higher stages 1.56 and 1.68 times than introvert persons.Conclusions: Being an extrovert person had a significant effect in the transitioning to higher stages of smoking cigarettes and hookah.
Levels And Risks of Antineoplastic Drugs In Households of Oncology Patients, Hospices And Retirement Homes
Authors: Bláhová Lucie , Kuta Jan , Doležalová Lenka , Kozáková Šárka , Hojdarová Tereza , Blaha Ludek
Published: June 2021

BackgroundContamination of the indoor environment by the antineoplastic drugs (ADs) is known to pose health risks to the exposed staff in hospitals or pharmacies. ADs may also contaminate households of the patients receiving chemotherapy but the exposure levels and potential risks to family members have not been studied. The objective was to provide an in-depth research of surface contamination by ADs inside homes focusing on the households of oncology patients, hospices and retirement houses. ResultsThe main study included repeated samplings of surfaces (floors, desktops) in households of 17 ambulant oncology patients receiving different chemotherapies with cyclophosphamide (CP), platinum-based drugs (Pt), doxorubicin (DOX), 5-fluorouracil (FU) and others. Screening of AD contamination was further performed in 2 hospices and 2 retirement homes. The wipe samples were analyzed by HPLC-MS/MS and ICP-MS/MS for 11 organic ADs and total Pt as a marker of Pt-based ADs. Patients treated with chemotherapy were found to serve as a source of contamination for their households, representing thus a risk to sensitive family members such as children or elderly people. Carcinogenic CP was commonly found at relatively high concentrations, especially during the first 6 days after the chemotherapy (maximum 511 pg/cm2). Sweat seems to be a major medium for the spread of the contamination, and high and long-time persisting CP levels (traces still found after 6 months post-chemotherapy) were found on various desktops including kitchen dining tables. The pilot studies in hospices and retirement homes indicated rather lower exposure risks of the personnel but pointed to potential long-lasting contamination by Pt or some other persistent ADs such as ifosfamide, IF.ConclusionsThis is one of the first studies investigating the contamination by ADs in indoor environments outside of hospitals or pharmacies. Peak concentrations of the carcinogenic CP in households were comparable to those observed in hospitals. The information guidance flier with practical recommendations was prepared improving thus information as well as prevention of eventual risks for family members.