bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Characteristics of Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with EGFR Exon 20 Insertions
Authors: Morita Chie , Yoshida Tatsuya , Shirasawa Masayuki , Masuda Ken , Matsumoto Yuji , Shinno Yuki , Yagishita Shigehiro , Okuma Yusuke , Goto Yasushi , Horinouchi Hidehito , Yamamoto Noboru , Motoi Noriko , Yatabe Yasushi , Ohe Yuichiro
Published: June 2021

Background: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 20 insertion mutations account for 4%–10% of all EGFR mutations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, data on the differences in clinical characteristics between patients with EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations and major mutations (exon 19 deletion and L858R) are limited. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed advanced NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations, including EGFR exon 20 insertions and major mutations, who were treated with systemic therapy between January 2011 and December 2019.Results: We identified 23 patients with EGFR exon 20 insertions and 534 patients with EGFR mutations. Among patients with exon 20 insertion, the median age was 60 years (range: 27–88 years), and females and never smokers were predominant. The clinical characteristics of patients with exon 20 insertions were similar to those with major EGFR mutations. Regarding the clinical outcomes in patients with exon 20 insertions, 17 patients received platinum doublet as first-line therapy, and the overall response rate (ORR) and median progression-free survival (mPFS) were 11.8% and 8.9%. Additionally, eight patients received anti-PD-1 antibodies and seven patients received EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in any-line therapy, and their ORR and mPFS were 0%, 25% and 2.2, 3.1 months, respectively. Overall survival was significantly shorter in patients with exon 20 insertions than in those with EGFR major mutations (29.3 vs. 43.4 months, p=0.04). Conclusions: The clinical outcomes in patients with exon 20 insertions were not satisfactory compared to those in patients with major EGFR mutations.
Development of a Novel Self-Sanitizing Mask Prototype to Combat the Spread of Infectious Disease and Reduce Unnecessary Waste
Authors: Crawford Matthew J. , Ramezani Sepehr , Jabbari Roghaie , Pathak Pawan , Cho Hyong Jin , Kim Brian N. , Choi Hwan
Published: June 2021

With the spread of COVID-19, significant emphasis has been placed on mitigation techniques such as mask wearing to slow infectious disease transmission. Widespread use of face coverings has revealed challenges such as mask contamination and waste, presenting an opportunity to improve the current technologies. In response, we have developed the Auto-sanitizing Retractable Mask Optimized for Reusability (ARMOR). ARMOR is a novel, reusable face covering that can be quickly disinfected using an array of ultraviolet C lamps contained within a wearable case. A nanomembrane UVC sensor was used to quantify the intensity of germicidal radiation at 18 different locations on the face covering and determine the necessary exposure time to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 in addition to other viruses and bacteria. After experimentation, it was found that ARMOR successfully provided germicidal radiation to all areas of the mask and will inactivate SARS-CoV-2 in approximately 180 seconds, H1N1 Influenza in 130 seconds, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in 113 seconds, proving that this design is effective at eliminating a variety of pathogens and can serve as an alternative to traditional waste-producing disposable face masks. The accessibility, ease of use, and speed of sanitization supports the wide application of ARMOR in both clinical and public settings.
Breastfeeding, Nutrition, Parental Smoking And Type 1 Diabetes: A Case-Control Study At Ege University Children's Hospital
Authors: Çiçekli İpek , Durusoy Raika
Published: June 2021

Background: It has been suggested that may be a link between many environmental factors, including dietary antigens affecting diabetes epidemiology. The main objective of this study is to investigate nutritional risk factors, especially breastfeeding early in life that may be associated with the development of Type 1 DM and to determine the relationship of these factors with the disease.Methods: The research is a case-control study and was carried out in Ege University Children's Hospital. A total of 248 children aged between 4-14 years were included in the study. The case group was reached from patients diagnosed with Type 1 DM, who applied the Ege University Children's Hospital’s; the control group was reached non-diabetic children applying to the same hospital.Results: The mean age was found 10.4±3.3 years for cases and 7.4±2.5 years for controls. It was found that each monthly increase in exclusive breastfeeding duration provided a 0.78 fold decrease in the risk of Type 1 DM. Introduction of cereals in the diet at 6th month or earlier was associated with an increased risk of 3.42 fold. Each unit increase in the total number of cigarettes that parents smoked at home had increased the risk of Type 1 DM by 1.15 times. Conclusions: Prolonged exclusive breastfeeding duration was found to be a protective factor for Type I DM, while introducing cereals before the 6th month and parental smoking were found an important risk factor, which might be another subject for further studies.
Thermodynamics control precipitation in NE Mexico on orbital to millennial timescales
Authors: Wright Kevin , Johnson Kathleen , Marks Gabriela Serrato , McGee David , Bhattacharya Tripti , Goldsmith Gregory R. , Tabor Clay , Lacaille-Muzquiz Jean-Louis , Lum Gianna , Beramendi-Orosco Laura
Published: June 2021

Northern Mexico is projected to become more arid in the future, however the magnitude, timing and spatial extent of precipitation change is presently poorly constrained. To address this, we have developed a multi-proxy (δ18O, δ13C, Mg/Ca) U-Th dated speleothem record of past rainfall variability spanning 4.6 to 58.5 ka from Tamaulipas, Mexico. Our results demonstrate a dominant thermodynamic control on hydroclimate via changes in Atlantic SSTs. Our record robustly demonstrates this response during major paleoclimate events including the Last Glacial Maximum, the Younger Dryas and Heinrich Stadials 1, 3, 4, and 5. While previous work has suggested the magnitude of the Caribbean Low-Level Jet as the predominant driver of regional rainfall, we utilize a state-of-the-art climate model to isolate cool Atlantic SSTs as the dominant mechanism of drying. We also demonstrate this response is consistent across large parts of Mesoamerica, suggesting drying in the future may be more spatially homogenous than currently predicted.
TCF-1+ PD-1+ CD8+T Cells Are Associated With The Response To PD-1 Blockade In Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Fang Xia , Wu Gang , Hua Jing , Zhao Pei , Shan Mengtian , Wang Na , Zeng Yu , Ding Tingting , Zhu Hailong , Zhu Xuyou , Zhang Long , Liu Yuting , Zheng Ling , Yi Xianghua , Gao Shaoyong
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To determine whether TCF-1+ PD-1+ CD8+T cells are associated with the response to PD-1 blockade in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods: We investigated the expression of TCF-1+ PD-1+ CD8+T cells and elucidated their predictive role in NSCLC patients. Pretreatment specimens from fifteen advanced NSCLC patients who underwent PD-1 immunotherapy or combined with chemotherapies were analyzed. The frequency of TCF-1+ cells in PD-1+ CD8+T cells were determined in these biospecimens by using multi-label immunofluorescence staining and multi-spectral acquisition technology. The clinical role of TCF-1+PD-1+CD8+T cells were evaluated via analyzing our patients’ clinic parameters and public NSCLC database. Results: A high frequency of TCF-1+ PD-1+ CD8+T cells were identified in responders compared with non-responders (p=0.0427), and the patients with high expression of this cell subset had durable clinical benefit of anti-PD-1 therapy. There were no significant association between the expression of TCF-1+ PD-1+ CD8+T cells and patients’ age, gender, smoking history, pathologic type and genetic status. In univariate logistic regression analysis, high frequency of TCF-1+ PD-1+ CD8+T cells were significantly correlated with patients’ benefit of PD-1 blockade (p=0.035). Conclusion: Our study indicated that TCF-1+ PD-1+ CD8+T cells are associated with the response to PD-1 blockade, and may be a predictor of anti-PD-1 therapy.
PCr/ATP Ratios and Mitochondrial Function in The Heart. A Comparative Study in Humans.
Authors: de Wit-Verheggen Vera HW , Schrauwen-Hinderling Vera B , Brouwers Kim , Jörgensen Johanna A , Schaart Gert , Gemmink Anne , Nascimento Emmani BM , Hesselink Matthijs KC , Wildberger Joachim E , Segers Patrique , Montaigne David , Staels Bart , Schrauwen Patrick , Lindeboom Lucas , Hoeks Joris , de Weijer Tineke van
Published: June 2021

Objectives The objective of the study was to validate PCr/ATP ratios as an in vivo marker for cardiac mitochondrial function.Background Cardiac energy status, measured as PCr/ATP ratio with 31P-MRS in vivo, was shown to be a prognostic factor in heart failure and is lowered in cardiometabolic disease. As mitochondrial function is also hampered in these diseases and oxidative phosphorylation is the major contributor to ATP synthesis, the PCr/ATP ratio might be a reflection of cardiac mitochondrial function.Methods Thirty-eight patients scheduled for open heart surgery were enrolled in this study. Before surgery, cardiac 31P-MRS was performed. During surgery, tissue specimens from the right atrial appendage were obtained for the ex vivo assessment of mitochondrial function using high-resolution respirometry.Results The patient population included was heterogenous resulting in wide ranges of PCr/ATP ratios and ADP-stimulated respiration rates (PCr/ATP ranging from 0.533 to 1.717; ADP-stimulated respiration rates ranging from 28.5 to 94.6 pmol/mg/s). Correlation analysis however showed no relationship between PCr/ATP and ADP-stimulated respiration rates fueled by various substrates (octanoylcarnitine R2 < 0.005, p = 0.74; pyruvate R2 < 0.025, p = 0.41). Also, no correlations between PCr/ATP and maximally uncoupled respiration were found (octanoylcarnitine R2 = 0.005, p = 0.71; pyruvate R2 = 0.040, p = 0.26).Conclusions Our results do not support the use of cardiac energy status (PCr/ATP) as a surrogate marker of mitochondrial function in the heart. The dissociation of the two parameters in the present study suggests that mitochondrial function is not the only determinant of cardiac energy status.Condensed abstractThis study does not support the use of in vivo cardiac energy status (PCr/ATP ratio) as a surrogate marker of ex vivo mitochondrial function (maximal oxidative respiration). Although both PCr/ATP and mitochondrial function are reduced in cardiovascular disease, the dissociation of the two parameters in the present study shows that PCr/ATP is determined by more factors than only mitochondrial function. Hence, PCr/ATP is not a good marker for mitochondrial function, but it can be a valuable marker for cardiometabolic health in cardiometabolic studies.Trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03049228).
SPAG1 Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Tumor Growth of Lung Adenocarcinoma via the AKT/mTORC1 Signaling Axis
Authors: Li Aili , Huang Kai , Guo Jinyong , Wu Youru , He Qiufeng , Guo Ruolin , Gou Yi , Huang Guojin
Published: June 2021

Background Sperm-associated antigen 1 (SAPG1) expression is increased in multiple cancer tissues, but the role and mechanisms of SPAG1 in lung cancer remain unknown. The present study was aimed to investigate SPAG1’s function and mechanisms in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). MethodsSPAG1 expression in LUAD tissues was evaluated by analyzing three LUAD datasets, and its association with prognosis of patients with LUAD was accessed by using Kaplan-Meier Plotter. The role of SPAG1 and its mechanisms were investigated in LUAD cells in vitro. The effect of SPAG1 on tumor growth was evaluated in LUAD tumor xenografts. In addition, the molecular domain involved in the regulation of cell proliferation was mapped. ResultsThe bioinformatical results showed that SPAG1 expression was increased significantly in LUAD tissues compared with normal lung tissues, and its high expression was associated with favorable prognosis, including overall survival (OS), first progression (FP) and post-progression survival (PPS). The results of in vitro experiments showed that SPAG1 suppressed cell proliferation, but enhanced autophagy via inhibiting AKT/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 signaling axis, and that the region of 130~170 amino acid residues in SPAG1 is involved in the regulation of AKT and cell proliferation. The results of tumor xenografts demonstrated that SPAG1 knockdown promotes LUAD tumor growth and enhances AKT/mTORC1 signaling. ConclusionSPAG1 is upregulated in LUAD tissues and associated with favorable prognosis of patients with LUAD, and plays an inhibitory role in cell proliferation and tumor growth of LUAD through the AKT/mTORC1 signaling axis.
Rail Roughness Acceptance Criterion Based on Interior Noise
Authors: LIU Xiaolong , HAN Jian , LIU Moukai , WANG Jianuo , XIAO Xinbiao , WEN Zefeng
Published: June 2021

Severe rail roughness leads to a series of problems in metro systems, particularly the vehicle noise problem. To ensure a better acoustic environment, rail roughness control is therefore one of the main concerns for the metro operators. But the existing roughness acceptance criteria are not suitable for metro interior noise control. It is an appropriate method to determine the rail roughness limit based on interior noise. A rail roughness acceptance criterion based on metro interior noise is accordingly proposed in this paper. The relationship between rail roughness and interior noise can be derived with wheel–rail noise as link. With this objective, a combined test and simulation method is adopted. A validated wheel–rail noise prediction model is thus established to determine the relationship between rail roughness and wheel–rail noise. Moreover, the transfer function of wheel–rail noise to interior noise is developed based on extensive field test. Using this method, the noise sensitivity to roughness wavelength and acceptance criteria at different speeds and track structures are investigated. Finally, an eclectic rail corrugation acceptance criterion on curved track is suggested in consideration of practical application.
Association of dietary inflammatory potential (DIP) and endothelial function biomarkers among female nurses of Isfahan hospitals
Authors: Gholizadeh Mohammad , Falahi Ebrahim , Keshteli Ammar Hassanzadeh , Nik Ahmadreza Yazdan , Saneei Parvaneh , Esmaeilzadeh Ahmad , Saedisomeolia Ahmad
Published: June 2021

Dietary inflammatory index (DIP) is a new dietary index designed to evaluate individuals’ diets. In addition, adhesion molecules are important biomarkers for assessing endothelium inflammation that they related to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Also, there is no study for assessing the association between adhesion molecules and DIP until now as well as other studies that assessed the relationship between dietary inflammatory index or DIP have controversy. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to determine the correlation between DII and endothelial markers such as E-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) among female nurses from Isfahan. In this study, dietary inflammatory potential (DIP) was used instead of DII. This study was performed on 420 healthy nurses. The nurses were selected by random cluster sampling method from private and public Isfahan hospitals. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was applied to assess the dietary inflammatory potential. A fasting blood sample was collected for measuring the plasma levels of the endothelial markers and other variables. After adjusting different potential confounders, no statistical association was found between DIP and sICAM-1, E–selectin and sVCAM-1 in model I (P=0.57, 0.98 and 0.45), model II (P=0.57, 0.98 and 0.45) and model III (P=0.67, 0.92 and 0.50) in comparison to the crude group (P=0.35, 0.83 and 0.49, respectively). The results revealed that the plasma levels of endothelial markers including E-selectin, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1 were not significantly associated with DIP in female nurses.
Isolated Single-Atomic Cu Catalyst Supported on P-doped Carbon for Hydrochlorination of Acetylene
Authors: Wang Ting , Jiang Zhao , Tang Qi , Wang Bolin , Wang Saisai , Yu Mingde , Chang Renqin , Yue Yuxue , Zhao Jia , Li Xiaonian
Published: June 2021

As an environmentally friendly non-mercury catalyst for the hydrochlorination of acetylene, Cu-based catalysts have always attracted attention. In this study, a series of phosphorus-doped Cu-based catalysts supported on activated carbon were prepared by the wet impregnation method, the difference of them is that the calcination temperature of phosphorus-doped carrier is 200 ℃, 400 ℃, 600 ℃ and 800 ℃ respectively. In the test conditions of T = 150℃, GHSV(C2H2) = 90 h− 1 and V(HCl): V(C2H2) = 1.2, the highest acetylene conversion was 83.1%. The type of phosphorus configuration and the distribution on the surface of the carrier can be adjusted by changing the calcination temperature. Among the different phosphorus species formed by the phosphorus doping treatment at different temperatures, the P-C bond formed after the phosphorus element is incorporated into the carbon lattice also accounts for an increasing proportion with the increase of the calcination temperature,which is accompanied by a higher and higher acetylene conversion. It can be seen that the P-C bond plays a key role in the acetylene hydrochlorination reaction in this system. Meanwhile, Cu2+ was identified as the main active component in the catalyst by XPS. The representative HAADF-STEM image shows isolated copper species, confirming that the single-center copper species supported on the carbon support is the active center of the acetylene hydrochlorination reaction. The coordination structure formed by the interaction between the P-C bond and the atomically dispersed Cu2+ species is an effective and stable active site in the reaction. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the reaction is proposed to proceed according to the Langmuir-Hinshelwood (L-H) mechanism. This work is the first to identify which phosphorus species plays a role in the hydrochlorination of acetylene, which may provide some ideas for the design and optimization of phosphorus doping catalysts in the future.
Inverse Identification for the Balanced Biaxial Yield Stress of AA5182-O Alloy Sheet
Authors: Zhang Yong , Zhang Qing , Sun Yuantao , Zheng Dateng
Published: June 2021

Advanced yield functions, such as Yld2004, could describe the elastic boundary of materials better than the traditional. However the balanced biaxial yield stress σb which is essential to determine the parameters of advanced yield functions is hard to measure using frequently used test equipment. This work presented an inverse method to calibrate σb of AA5182-O alloy sheet based on the Erichsen test. The maximum punch force (MPF) measured from this test was used for the inverse identification. A modification coefficient was used to drop down the simulation MPF from shell element, as the application of shell element result in higher simulation punch force. Then the relationship between σb and MPF was established based on the plane stress Yld2004. With this relationship and the real measured MPF, σb could be inversely identified. Additionally, a hydraulic bulge test was performed to verify the accuracy of this inversely obtained σb.
Effectiveness of Topical Vancomycin in the Prevention of Spinal Surgical Site Infections: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tafish Rawan , Alkhaldi Ahmed F. , Bourghli Anouar , Althunian Turki Abdulaziz
Published: June 2021

BackgroundThe risk of surgical site infections (SSIs), particularly methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) SSIs, post spinal surgeries is one of the most daunting experiences to patients and surgeons. In some practices, vancomycin powder is applied directly on the wound before skin closure to minimize the risk of SSIs; however, this practice is not supported by well-established evidence. This study sought to assess the effectiveness of topical (i.e. intra-wound) vancomycin in minimizing the risk of SSIs in patients who underwent spinal surgeries at the Kingdom Hospital (a private Saudi hospital).MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted using the hospital database. Patients who underwent spinal surgeries from the period of 09/2013 to 09/2019 were included and followed up to 30 days (surgeries without implantation) or 90 days (with implantation). The odds ratio (OR) of the primary outcome between vancomycin users vs. non-users was estimated using logistic regression adjusting for the measured confounders. A sensitivity analysis was conducted using propensity score analysis (inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) with stabilized weights) to control for confounding by indication. All study analyses were completed using RStudio Version 1.2.5033.ResultsWe included 81 vancomycin users vs. 375 non-users with 28 infections. The adjusted OR of SSIs between the two groups was 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.11 to 1.34). The result of the propensity score analysis was consistent (OR: 0.97 [95% CI 0.35 to 2.68]). ConclusionWe could not find a lower association of SSIs with intra-wound vancomycin in patients who underwent spinal surgeries. Further studies are needed to assess benefits of using topical vancomycin for this indication vs. the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Prospective Validation of Smartphone-based Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate Measurement Algorithms
Authors: Bae Sean , Borac Silviu , Emre Yunus , Wang Jonathan , Wu Jiang , Kashyap Mehr , Kang Si-Hyuck , Chen Liwen , Moran Melissa , Cannon Julie , Teasley Eric , Chai Allen , Liu Yun , Wadhwa Neal , Krainin Mike , Rubinstein Michael , Maciel Alejandra , McConnell Michael , Patel Shwetak , Corrado Greg , Taylor James , Zhan Jiening , Po Ming
Published: June 2021

Measuring vital signs plays a key role in both patient care and wellness, but can be challenging outside of medical settings due to the lack of specialized equipment. In this study, we prospectively evaluated smartphone camera-based techniques for measuring heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR) for consumer wellness use. HR was measured by placing the finger over the rear-facing camera, while RR was measured via a video of the participants sitting still in front of the front-facing camera. In the HR study of 95 participants (with a protocol that included both measurements at rest and post exercise), the mean absolute percent error (MAPE) ± standard deviation of the measurement was 1.6% ± 4.3%, which was significantly lower than the pre-specified goal of 5%. No significant differences in the MAPE were present across colorimeter-measured skin-tone subgroups: 1.8% ± 4.5% for very light to intermediate, 1.3% ± 3.3% for tan and brown, and 1.8% ± 4.9% for dark. In the RR study of 50 participants, the mean absolute error (MAE) was 0.78 ± 0.61 breaths/min, which was significantly lower than the pre-specified goal of 3 breath/min. The MAE was low in both healthy participants (0.70 ± 0.67 breaths/min), and participants with chronic respiratory conditions (0.80 ± 0.60 breaths/min). These results validate the accuracy of our smartphone camera-based techniques to measure HR and RR across a range of pre-defined subgroups.
Endoscopic Endonasal Supraoptic and Infraoptic Approaches for Complex “Parasuprasellar” Lesions: Surgical Anatomy, Technique Nuances, and Case Series
Authors: Bao YouYuan , Yang YouQing , Zhou Lin , Xie ShenHao , Wu Xiao , Ding Han , Wu Jie , Xiao Li Min , Yang Le , Tang Bin , Hong Tao
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Surgical management of lesions involving the lateral area of the suprasellar region, including the lateral aspect of the planum sphenoidale and a tight junction region of the optic canal (OC), the anterior clinoid process (ACP), and the internal carotid artery (ICA) and its dural rings, is extremely challenging. Here, the authors introduce two novel endoscopic endonasal supraoptic (EESO) and endoscopic endonasal infraoptic (EEIO) approaches to access these regions, namely, “parasuprasellar” area.Methods: Surgical simulation of the EESO and EEIO approaches to the parasuprasellar area was conducted in 5 silicon-injected specimens. The same techniques were applied in 12 patients involving the parasuprasellar area.Results: The EESO and EEIO approaches can be used independently or in combination, but are more often employed as a complement to the endoscopic endonasal midline approach and transcavernous approach. In clinical application, the EESO and EEIO approaches were successfully performed in 12 patients harboring tumors and multiple aneurysms involving the parasuprasellar area. Gross total and subtotal tumor resection was achieved in 9 patients and 1 patient, respectively. For two patients with multiple aneurysms, the lesions were clipped selectively according to location and size. Visual acuity improved in 7 patients, remained stable in 4, and deteriorated in only 1. No postoperative intracranial infection or ICA injury occurred in this series.Conclusion: The EESO and EEIO approaches can be combined with the current endoscopic endonasal midline approach and transcavernous approach to remove extensive pathologies involving the intrasellar, suprasellar, sphenoid, and cavernous sinuses and even bifurcation of the ICA.
Effectiveness of the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccines in Pregnant Women
Authors: Butt Adeel , Abou-Samra Abdul-Badi , Chemaitelly Hiam , Khal Abdullatif Al , Coyle Peter , Saleh Huda , Kaleeckal Anvar Hassan , Latif Ali Nizar , Bertollini Roberto , Abu-Raddad Laith
Published: June 2021

Pregnancy may increase the risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in pregnant women is not known. Using a test-negative case-control study, we determined the vaccine effectiveness of mRNA vaccines in preventing confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women at a national referral hospital, which handles > 75% of the deliveries in Qatar. Among 2,020 pregnant women who met the study criteria, 397 had a positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR and 1,623 had a negative test. Vaccine effectiveness ≥ 14 days after the second dose was 67.7% (95%CI 30.5–86.9), while vaccine effectiveness ≥ 14 days after the first dose but before the second dose was 40.3% (95%CI 0.0-80.4). There were nine severe/critical disease cases, and no deaths in the PCR-positive pregnant women, all among unvaccinated. The mRNA vaccines provide high level of protection against documented SARS-CoV-2 infection, which supports including pregnant women in vaccination campaigns.
Appropriateness of using vitamin K for the correction of INR elevation secondary to hepatic disease in critically ill patients: An Observational Study
Authors: Sulaiman Khalid Al , Mutairi Mashael Al , Harbi Omar Al , Duraihim Alanoud Al , Aldosary Sara , Khalil Haifa Al , Shaya Abdulrahman Al , Harbi Shmeylan Al , Alotaibi Nouf , Aamer Kholoud Al , Vishwakarma Ramesh , Asiri Mohammed Al , Katheri Abdulmalik Al , Bekairy Abdulkareem M. Al
Published: June 2021

Background: Hepatic diseases have been associated with an increased risk of coagulopathy and increased odds of secondary thrombosis and bleeding. Using vitamin K for correction of coagulopathy in critically ill patients is controversial with limited evidence. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vitamin K in the correction of international normalized ratio (INR) elevation secondary to liver disease in critically ill patients.Method: A retrospective study of adult ICU patients with coagulopathy secondary to liver disease admitted to a tertiary teaching hospital in Saudi Arabia. The primary outcome was to evaluate the association between vitamin K administration and the incidence of new bleeding events in critically ill patients with INR elevation secondary to liver disease. Secondary outcomes were to evaluate the incidence of a new thrombotic event, and the degree of INR correction with vitamin K. Patients were divided into two groups based on vitamin K administration to correct INR elevation. The propensity score was generated based on disease severity scores and the use of pharmacological DVT prophylaxis. Results: A total of 98 patients were included in the study. Forty-seven patients (48%) received vitamin K during the study period. The incidence of the new bleeding event was not statistically different between groups (OR 2.4, 95% CI 0.28-21.67, P=0.42). Delta of INR reduction was observed with a median of 0.63 when the first dose is given (p-value: <.0001). However, other subsequent doses of vitamin K were not statistically significant.Conclusion: Using vitamin K for INR correction in critically ill patients with coagulopathy secondary to liver disease was not associated with a lower incidence of new bleeding events. Vitamin K was efficient in reducing INR level at the first dose, and other subsequent doses were not.
Gradual Increasing Dyslipidemia in Male Patients With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Primarily Treated With Tenofovir Plus Lamivudine Plus Efavirenz for Three Years
Authors: Liu Dafeng , Zhang Xinyi , Kang Jun , Gao Fengjiao , He Yinsheng , He Shenghua
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Since the development of antiretroviral therapy (ART) with TDF plus 3TC plus EFV, this specific regimen has not been studied enough with long-term lipid and uric acid monitoring.Methods: A prospective follow-up cohort study was performed. Sixty-one treatment-naive male patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) were divided into three groups based on their baseline CD4+ cell count (26, 12, and 23 patients in the <200, 200 to 350, and >350 groups, respectively). The lipid and purine metabolism parameters of the patients over 144 weeks were analyzed.Result: Within 144 weeks, TG, LDL-c, TC and HDL-c gradually increased, especially the latter two (P=0.001, 0.000, respectively). Moreover, the percentages of hypercholesterolemia, hyper LDL cholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL cholesterolemia also gradually increased, especially the latter (P=0.0007). The lower the baseline CD4+ cell counts were, the higher the TG levels were and the lower the TC, LDL-c and HDL-c levels were. But there was significant difference of only baseline LDL-c levels between the three groups (P=0.0457). No significant difference of the UA level and the percentages of hyperuricemia was found between the different follow-up time point groups or between the three groups (all P>0.05). The risk factors for dyslipidemia included age, anthropometric parameters and follow-up weeks, and for hyperuricemia was virus load.Conclusions: Gradual increasing dyslipidemia was found in male patients with human immunodeficiency virus primarily treated with tenofovir plus lamivudine plus efavirenz for three years. There-fore lipid metabolism parameters should be closely monitored during long-term ART with the TDF plus 3TC plus EFV regimen.
Six Year Trend Analysis of Malaria Prevalence in Bati District, Northeastern Ethiopia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Daba Chala , Kebede Edosa , Atamo Amanuel , Reda Semere
Published: June 2021

Background: Malaria is still the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries including Ethiopia. Ethiopia is planned to minimize forty percent of malaria incidence at the end of 2020 by applying different prevention and control method. There is limited information about trend of malaria in the study area. Therefore, this study was designed to address this gap. Methods: Institutional based retrospective study was conducted from to determine a six-year trend analysis of malaria prevalence in the Bati district. All malaria cases were carefully reviewed by trained laboratory technologists from the laboratory record books of Bati hospital and health center. The data was entered in to excel 2013 and descriptive statistics were used to determine frequencies and percentages of malaria cases, trends of malaria transmission in terms of years and seasonal distribution. Result: A total of 84,269 and 22,185 malaria suspected patients were requested for blood films and Rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) respectively. Of this, 12,032 (11.3%) malaria cases were microscopically confirmed. Plasmodium falciparum were the most dominant parasite detected, which accounted for 57.6 %. The highest peak of malaria cases was reported during the summer season. The majority of the cases (57.2%) were reported among the >15 years age groupConclusion: Malaria is still a major public health problem in the study area. In order to decrease the number of malaria cases further, government, all healthcare workers, and community should strengthen and scale up malaria prevention and control strategies in the study area.
A closer look: High-resolution pore-scale simulations of solute transport and mixing through porous media columns
Authors: Sole-Mari Guillem , Bolster Diogo , Fernandez-Garcia Daniel
Published: June 2021

Mixing is pivotal to conservative and reactive transport behaviors in porous media. Methods for investigating mixing processes include mathematical models, laboratory experiments and numerical simulations. The latter have been historically limited by the extreme computational resources needed for solving flow and transport at the microscopic scale within the complex pore structure of a three-dimensional porous medium, while dealing with a sufficiently large domain in order to generate meaningful emergent continuum-scale observables. We present the results of such a set of virtual column experiments, which have been conducted by taking advantage of modern High-Performance Computing infrastructure and Computational Fluid Dynamics software capable of massively parallel simulations. The computational approach has important advantages such as full control over the experimental conditions as well as high spatial and temporal resolution of measurements. We study the roles of Péclet number and grain size variability on emergent conservative and reactive transport behaviors. Hydrodynamic dispersion results agree with the empirical and theoretical literature and link dispersivity to median grain size, while elucidating the impact of grain-size variability on the critical Péclet number. Reactive transport results also indicate that the relative degree of incomplete mixing is related to the granular material's mean hydraulic radius, and not to the median grain size. When compared to a well-known laboratory experiment with similar configuration, less incomplete mixing is observed in our simulations. We offer a partial explanation for this discrepancy, by showing how an apparent non-linear absorbance-concentration relationship may induce laboratory measurement error in the presence of local concentration fluctuations.
Changes in Neonatal Morbidity and Neonatal Care Practices of Infants Born Very Preterm in the Netherlands in the 1980s and 2000s
Authors: Sexty Reka , Pal Sylvia van der , Reijneveld Sijmen A. , Wolke Dieter , Lüchters Guido , Bakker Leonhard , Buuren Stef van , Bos Arend F. , Bartmann Peter
Published: June 2021

This study evaluates changes in neonatal morbidity and care practices of very preterm (VP) infants born in the Netherlands in the 1980s and 2000s and analyzes whether these changes were associated with infant and maternal characteristics, risk factors during pregnancy, and obstetrical outcomes.The community-based cohorts of POPS (1983) and LOLLIPOP (2002-03) provided perinatal data for the study. The analysis enrolled 1,228 participants born VP (before 32 weeks of gestation) and survived to 2 years of age. In 2003, mothers were on average 3.3 years older when giving birth than in 1983. Multiple birth rates increased by 50% and significantly more parents had higher education. Prevalence of severe IVH and sepsis decreased in VP infants between 1983 and 2003. LOLLIPOP infants received more often continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), mechanical ventilation, and caffeine therapy than POPS infants. Antenatal corticosteroids and surfactant therapy were introduced only in the LOLLIPOP cohort. In 2002-03, length of stay in the NICU was reduced by 57% in LOLLIPOP (median 16 days) compared to POPS (median 38 days). LOLLIPOP infants also spent 11 days less total time in hospital after birth (median 54 days). This is a reduction of 17% compared to POPS (median 65 days). Differences persisted after adjustment for infant and maternal characteristics, risk factors during pregnancy, and obstetrical outcomes.Conclusions: Infant and mother characteristics changed considerably as well as obstetric and neonatal care practices. Outcomes of several severe neonatal morbidities improved. Length of NICU and hospital stay were significantly shorter in the 2000s.
Dysbiosis of the faecal and biliary microbiotas in biliary tract cancer
Authors: Ito Zensho , Koido Shigeo , Kato Kumiko , Odamaki Toshitaka , Horiuchi Sankichi , Akasu Takafumi , Saruta Masayuki , Hata Taigo , Kumagai Yu , Fujioka Shuichi , Misawa Takeyuki , Xiao Jin-zhong , Sato Nobuhiro , Ohkusa Toshifumi
Published: June 2021

Background

Characteristic bile duct and colonic microbiotas have been identified in patients with chronic biliary tract disease. Therefore, a characteristic microbiota is likely also formed in cholangio- and gallbladder carcinoma patients. This study aimed to characterize the faecal and bile microbiotas in biliary tract cancer (BTC) patients and their relationship to each other.
Methods

Patients with BTC (n = 30) and benign biliary disease (BBD) without cholangitis (n = 11) were prospectively included. Ten healthy, age-matched subjects were also recruited for faecal microbiota comparison. The colon and bile duct microbiotas were analysed by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene V3-V4 region. We also obtained live bacteria in the bile collected from three BTC patients by culture and performed metagenomics-based identification.
Results

The faecal microbiota composition differed in the BTC patients. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) showed a higher Enterobacteriaceae abundance and a lower Clostridia abundance, including that of butyrate-producing bacteria including Faecalibacterium and Coprococcus, in the BTC patients than in the other subjects. Notably, 10 of 17 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) assigned to Enterobacteriaceae in the bile samples were matched with the OTUs found in the BTC subject faecal samples. Further metagenomic approaches revealed a bile-isolated strain that possessed the carcinogenic bacterial colipolyketide synthase (PKS)-encoding gene.
Conclusions

Enterobacteriaceae was enriched in the BTC faeces. Taken together with the finding that more than half of Enterobacteriaceae in the bile matched that in the faeces at the OTU level, our data suggest that faecal microbiota dysbiosis possibly contributes to BTC onset.
Design of Two-Dimensional Photonic Crystal Based Biosensors for Abnormal Tissues Analysis
Authors: Asuvaran A , Elatharasan G
Published: June 2021

The recognition of different classifications of brain irregular tissues is an incredible test in robot-helped Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) that includes connection with the tissues. In this paper, an optical sensor was designed in order to assess the Refractive Index (RI) of various brain tissues while the robotic surgery is performed. This research work is based on the 2-Dimensional (2D) Photonic Crystal (PC) bio-sensor powered by electromagnetic radiation. It reaches the range from UV to IR and is deeply intended to profoundly touch the changes in the refractive index of different tissues. Due to the fact that the refractive index of the abnormal tissues is very different from the normal tissues, the sensor can easily be distinguished the tumors, cancer-infected brain tissues, and normal brain tissues. As a result, the sensor exhibits a different range of frequency, wavelength and amplitude spectra which respond to the small changes that occur in the refractive index of the brain tissue.
Cues to Danger: Contour Features Predict Valence and Threat Judgements in Scenes
Authors: Damiano Claudia , Walther Dirk B. , Cunningham William A.
Published: June 2021

Quickly scanning an environment to determine relative threat is an essential part of survival. Scene gist extracted rapidly from the environment may help people detect threats. Here, we probed this link between emotional judgements and features of visual scenes. We first extracted curvature, length, and orientation statistics of all images in the International Affective Picture System image set and related them to emotional valence scores. Images containing angular contours were rated as negative, and images containing long contours as positive. We then composed new abstract line drawings with specific combinations of length, curvature, and orientation values and asked participants to rate them as positive or negative, and as safe or threatening. Low curvature, long, horizontal contour scenes were rated as positive/safe, while short, high curvature contour scenes were rated as negative/threatening. Our work shows that particular combinations of image features help people make judgements about potential threat in the environment.
Development and Validation of Prediction Model to Estimate Risk of Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li You , Meng Yan , Fu Bowen , Xue Shuanglong , Kang Mengyang , Duan Zhenzhen , Chen Yan , Wang Yifan , Tian Hongyan
Published: June 2021

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE), clinically presenting as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). Not all DVT patients carry the same risk of developing acute pulmonary embolism (APE).Methods: Patients who were diagnosed as symptomatic VTE between June 2013 and June 2018 (n=1582) at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University were enrolled in this study, of whom 783 had the DVT and APE confirmed by angiography or computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). Using the LASSO and logistics regression, we derived predictive model with 16 candidate variables to predict the risk of APE and completed internal validation.Results: Overall, 52.9% patients had DVT+APE (773 vs 1460), 47.1% patients only had DVT (687 vs 1460). The APE risk prediction model included one pre-existing disease or condition (respiratory failure), one risk factors(infection), three symptoms (dyspnea, hemoptysis, syncope), five signs (skin cold clammy, tachycardia, diminished respiration, pulmonary rales, accentuation/splitting of P2, tricuspid murmur), and six ECG indicators (SⅠQⅢTⅢ, right axis deviation, left axis deviation, S1S2S3, T wave inversion, Q/q wave), of which all were positively associated with APE. The ROC curves of the model showed AUC of 0.79 (95% CI, 0.77-0.82) and 0.80 (95% CI, 0.76-0.84) in the training set and testing set. The model showed good predictive accuracy (calibration slope, 0.83 and Brier score, 0.18).Conclusion: Based on a retrospective single-center population study, we developed a novel prediction model to identify patients with different risks for APE in DVT patients, which may be useful for quickly estimating the probability of APE before obtaining definitive test results and speeding up emergency management processes.
Manganese Limitations and the Enhanced Soil Carbon Sequestration of Temperate Rainforests
Authors: Kranabetter J Marty , Philpott Tim , Dunn Dave
Published: June 2021

Manganese (Mn) has been identified as a regulatory bottleneck in carbon (C) turnover because of its role as an enzymatic co-factor in the oxidative decomposition of C by Mn-peroxidase (MnP). We tested this limit on decay using forest soils from coastal British Columbia with contrasting Mn concentrations. Moderately weathered soils (Brunisols) had an average 3.6-fold increase in MnP activity within the upper soil profile in comparison to highly weathered Podzols. Ordination of the Agaricomycete fungal community, which are responsible for MnP production, confirmed significant differences in assemblages between soil types for saprotrophic fungi, particularly species within Agaricales, Trechisporales and Auriculariales. Ectomycorrhizal fungi of Pseudotsuga menziesii were equally aligned with soil type and select taxa more abundant on Brunisols may have supplemented MnP activity. A laboratory incubation with an Mn amendment produced significant interactions in MnP activity by soil type. Surprisingly, MnP activity of both Brunisol substrates declined substantially with an amendment (-56% and − 40% for forest floor and mineral soil, respectively), in contrast to Podzols (-30% and + 26%, respectively). This inhibitory response was linked to considerable uptake of the added Mn in Brunisols, and underscores how Mn2+ likely operates directly on fungi as a regulator of mnp transcription for MnP production. Our study highlights a new perspective concerning the abiotic drivers underpinning the expansive soil C stocks across perhumid temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest.
FURIN Correlated with Immune Infiltration Serves as a Potential Biomarker in SARS-CoV-2 Infection-Related Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Luo Lianxiang , Li Manshan , Su Jiating , Yao Xinyue , Luo Hui
Published: June 2021

Background: FURIN, as a proprotein invertase, has been found to be expressed in a variety of cancers and plays an important role in cancer. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 requires FURIN to enter human cell. However, the role of FURIN in lung adenocarcinoma remains unclear. And the expression of SARS-CoV-2 related gene in lung adenocarcinoma have not been clarify. Methods: In this study, we obtained the expression data of Oncomine, TIMER, GEPIA, HPA. Then we used UALCAN database to analyze the expression of FURIN in different clinical feature subgroups. In PrognoScan and Kaplan-Meier plotter databases, we found a certain association between FURIN and poor OS outcomes in LUAD patients. Then we used the cBioPortal database to determine the type and frequency of FURIN changes in LUAD patients. Studies based on the TIMER database show a strong correlation between FURIN expression and various immune cell infiltrates and markers. Analysis in UALCAN database showed that the decreased promoter methylation level of FURIN in LUAD may lead to the high expression of FURIN. Furthermore, we used the LinkedOmics database to evaluate gene co-expression of FURIN in LUAD and to investigate their role in tumor immunity. Finally, we evaluated the expression of FURIN in LUAD patients who infected with SARS-CoV.Results: FURIN was highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma. And FURIN expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival. FURIN expression was found to be correlated with six major permeable immune cells and with macrophage immune marker in LUAD patients. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 infection might affect the expression of FURIN. Conclusions: FURIN, as SARS-CoV-2 related gene, was highly expressed in LUAD. Furthermore, FURIN can be used as a promising biomarker for determining prognosis and immune infiltration in LUAD patients.