bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR-124-3p enhances dendritic cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity by targeting CYLD/4-1BBL pathway
Authors: Lei Yujie , Li Wujin , Chen Yangming , Chen Kai , Huang Yunchao , Chen Ying , Jiang Guicheng , Zhang Jiguang , Lin Xing
Published: January 2021

Objective: To investigate miR-124-3p regulation of DC-mediated immune response via CYLD/4-1BBL pathway, and the inhibitory effect of miR-124-3p on lung cancer.Methods: DCs were cultured and amplified in vitro, and then transfected with miR-124-3p mimic, miR-124-3P inhibitor, or siRNA CYLD. Double luciferase reporter genes were used to detect the target relationship between miR-124-3p and CYLD. qRT-PCR and western blotting were used to detect the expression levels of CYLD and 4-1BBL. Flow cytometry was used to assess the proliferation rate of CD4+ T cells co-cultured with untransfected DCs and those transfected with miR-124-3p mimic or miR-124-3p inhibitor. C57BL/6 tumor bearing mice, implanted with LL/2 lung adenocarcinoma cells, were administered DCs transfected with the miR-124-3p mimic or untransfected DCs. The tumor size and weight of mice were then measured. Results: miR-124-3p and CYLD3’UTR contained target-binding site, and overexpression of miR-124-3p enhanced the expression of CYLD and 4-1BBL. CD4+ T cells co-cultured with miR-124-3p mimic-transfected DCs showed significantly increased proliferation. In tumor-bearing mice, tumor inhibition rate was 73.5%, and tumor volume and weight were significantly decreased after the administration of DCs containing the miR-124-3p mimic.Conclusions: The expression of CYLD was regulated by miR-124-3p, which, in turn, increased the expression of 4-1BBL. miR-124-3p regulated DCs function via CYLD/4-1BBL cascade. miR-124-3p plays important roles in DCs-induced T cells, thereby enhancing anti-tumor immunity.
Climate change and Forest disturbances in Europe: an economic analysis of the losses
Authors: Sempere Jaume , Da-Rocha Jose Maria , García-Cutrín Javier , Chas-Amil María-Luisa , Sánchez-Llamas Eduardo , Gutiérrez María-José
Published: January 2021

Climate warming is expected to increase the frequency and magnitude of extreme events in the mid to long term (Lindner et al., 2010; Bolte et al., 200); Morin et al., 2018; Dale et al. (2000), Seidl et al., 2011)). Here, we combine a (dynamic general equilibrium) model of forest management with inter-country input-output tables (Remond-Tiedrez et al., 2019)) to estimate the economic effect on the EU-28 and USA economies of changes in the output of the forestry and logging sectors due to extreme forest disturbance events. Given our model results, we estimate that the impact on the EU-28 economy will be equivalent to the value of wood damaged multiplied 3.32 fold [3.00-3.44]. We find that the economic cost of a global pan-European extreme event (a pulse of 450 M m3) could be 120.4 billion Euros in the EU-28 and and 1.7 billion in the USA (i.e. 0.926 and 0.015% of their respective GDPs). Finally, we explore how to design incentives to increase the economic resilience of the response of forestry and logging companies to expected future climate change. Using a heterogeneous companies model, we show that payments to landowners to conserve forest increase economic resilience.
High Throughput Viscoelastic Particle Focusing and Separation in Spiral Microchannels
Authors: Kumar Tharagan , Ramachandraiah Harisha , Iyengar Sharath Narayana , Banerjee Indradumna , Mårtensson Gustaf , Russom Aman
Published: January 2021

Passive particle manipulation using inertial and elasto-inertial microfluidics have received substantial interest in recent years and have found various applications in high throughput particle sorting and separation. For separation applications, elasto-inertial microfluidics has thus far been applied at substantial lower flow rates as compared to inertial microfluidics. In this work, we explore viscoelastic particle focusing and separation in spiral channels at two orders of magnitude higher Reynolds numbers than previously reported. We show that the balance between dominant inertial lift force, dean drag force and elastic force enables stable 3D particle focusing at dynamically high Reynolds numbers. Using a two-turn spiral, we show that particles, initially pinched towards the inner wall using an elasticity enhancer, PEO (polyethylene oxide), as sheath migrate towards the outer wall strictly based on size and can be effectively separated with high precision. As a proof of principle for high resolution particle separation, 15 µm particles were effectively separated from 10 µm particles. A separation efficiency of 98% for the 10 µm and 97% for the 15µm particles was achieved. Furthermore, we demonstrate sheath-less, high throughput, separation using a novel integrated two-spiral device and achieved a separation efficiency of 89% for the 10 µm and 99% for the 15µm particles at a sample flow rate of 1 mL/ml – a throughput previously only reported for inertial microfluidics. We anticipate the ability to precisely control particles in 3D at extremely high flow rates will open up several applications, including the development of ultra-high throughput microflow cytometers and high-resolution separation of rare cells for point of care diagnostics.
Factors Influencing Primary Care Physicians’ Prescribing Behavior of Anticoagulant Therapy for the Management of Patients With Non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation in the Community: a Qualitative Research Study
Authors: Chaterji Shera , Lian Lay Geok , Lee Ting Yee , Chua Liwei , Wee Sabrina , Yap Sui Ling , K Dhana Letchimy , Tan Ngiap Chuan
Published: January 2021

Background: Oral anticoagulant therapy use in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) remains suboptimal despite the availability of both warfarin and non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Primary care physicians’ (PCP) decision-making to initiate and select appropriate anticoagulant medication is pivotal in reducing complications among patients with AF.Aim: This study explored the factors influencing PCPs’ decision-making in anticoagulant initiation and adjustment for patients with non-valvular AF. Design of study: Qualitative research based on the theoretical framework of the Generalist Wheel of Knowledge, Understanding and Inquiry. Method: In-depth interviews or focus group discussions were conducted with 27 PCPs in general practice in urban Singapore. The audio-recordings were transcribed, audited and coded to identify themes, which are framed according to the “clinician”, “patient”, “medical condition and treatment” and “healthcare system and policy” domains.Results: Personal training and experience with anticoagulant therapy; understanding patient risk-stratification; AF detection during clinical practice; medication cost; clinical support services for anticoagulation monitoring and constraints in existing care model influenced PCPs in their anticoagulant prescription. PCPs preferred to seek guidance from cardiologists in managing patients with newly diagnosed AF and attempted to engage their patients in decision-making regarding anticoagulant therapy. They perceived sub-specialized primary care clinics focusing on AF co-management with cardiologists as an ideal setting for initiation and maintenance of anticoagulant therapy.Conclusion: PCPs’ decisions on anticoagulant therapy is influenced by personal attributes, patients, clinical presentations, anticoagulant properties and healthcare system. Their proposed care model to address the barriers awaits feasibility and acceptance assessment in future research.
Analysis of a Change in the Structure of Japanese Power Supply Using the using the GTAP-E-Power Model
Authors: Higashi Akiko , Itakura Ken , Inoue Yushi , Otake Hiroaki
Published: January 2021

This study analyzes the effect of a change in the structure of Japanese power supply, which disaggregates the power sector based on the GTAP-E model framework. We also discuss the update of the GTAP-E-Power model database from GTAP 9.0 to GTAP 10.0. The study further analyzes the impact of a change in the power structure on Japan’s macro-economy, the power sector, and industry by comparing the results of four scenarios. In our simulations, which are divided into two periods, shocks are introduced to the growth rate in real GDP, the labor force, the population, and Japanese zero-emission power supply. First, simulations from 2014 to 2018 are performed to update the GTAP-E-Power database. Next, simulations from 2019 to 2030 are performed for policy scenarios with different growth rates of zero-emission power supply in Japan.The simulation results show that with the same growth rate of zero-emission power supply as the Sustainable Development Scenario of the World Energy Outlook 2019, the share of zero-emission power supply in Japan in 2030 will be close to the government’s target. The simulation results show that an increase in zero-emission power supply would have a positive effect on the Japanese economy.
The Impact of Trade Openness and Export Expansion Grants in Nigerian Economy (1986-2019): New Evidence from Quantile Regression.
Authors: Cavusoglu Behiye , Usman Mohammed A. M
Published: January 2021

Trade openness and export promotion policies such as export expansion grants are the furthermost competent yardstick for measuring growth and development, approved by various countries since 1970s. Looking at the Nigeria economy whose depends almost largely on external trade is inclusive. Therefore, this analysis explores the effects of trade openness and export expansion grants on Nigerian economy using annual data from 1986-2019. This analysis makes use of coefficient covariance metrics, stability leverage plots and pairwise granger causality and quantile regression to portray the impact of trade openness and export expansion grants on Nigerian economic growth. The outcomes confirm that, there was a positive relationship between trade openness (TOPN) and economic growth (GDPR) in the first and last quantiles (seventh) quantile while the remaining quantiles has negative effect on GDP growth rate of Nigeria and were statistically insignificant during the study era. While the coefficients of export expansion grants (EEXG) have positive effect on GDP growth rate of Nigeria in all quantiles but statistically significant only in sixth as well seventh quantile. Also, the result of pairwise granger causality showed strong bi-directional causality between trade openness and GDPR at 5% level of significance as well as uni-directional causality running from GDPR to export expansion grants. Therefore, it recommended that, Nigerian government should adjust the structure of its trade through concentrating on high value-added products instead of exporting semi-finished goods as well by given more support to domestic industries (such as subsidies, tax holiday, more export expansion grants) to compete internationally. Also, government should maintain stable exchange rate as well policies through effective monetary policies that would reduce inflation rate in the economy in order to attain Nigeria's Economic Recovery and Growth Plan which is in line with SDGs goal of 2023 in Nigeria.
The Association of Dietary Acid Load with Resting Metabolic Rate and Metabolic Components in Overweight and Obese Women: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Mirzababaei Atieh , Shiraseb Farideh , Setayesh Leila , Tavakoli Atefeh , Clark Cain C. T. Clark , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: January 2021

Background: Several epidemiologic studies have reported that dietary acid load is associated with metabolic profiles; however, to our knowledge, the relationship of this dietary pattern with resting metabolic rate (RMR) among obese and overweight females remains unreported. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association of dietary acid load RMR and metabolic components among overweight and obese adult women.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 375 Iranian adults, aged 18–48 years. Dietary acid load indexes were calculated by using a validated 147-item semi-quantitative FFQ. Biochemical and anthropometric measures were assessed using standard methods. An impedance fat analyzer was used to obtain the body composition and an indirect calorimeter was used to assess the RMR. Result: It was observed that after correction for potential confounders, DBP and NEAP and PRAL scores were inversely associated (P<0.05). NEAP index was inversely associated with RMR (β= -0.25, 95% CI=-0.1.5 to 2.08, P=0.02), and positively associated with WC (β= 1.009, 95% CI=-1.43 to 3.45, P=0.05) and WHR (β= 0.01, 95% CI= -0.01 to0.04, P=0.03), such that subjects with higher scores in NEAP had lower RMR and higher WC and WHR. We also observed that DAL (β= -0.02, 95% CI= -0.08 to0.03, P=0.08) and PRAL (β= -0.037, 95% CI= -1.05 to 0.03 P=0.07) were marginally associated with RMR.Conclusion:The results of the present study suggested that higher dietary acid load scores may be negatively associated with lower RMR, while directly associated with greater WC, WHR, DBP, and HOMA-IR.
The use of Ventilator Parameters in the Prediction of Development and Outcome of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Postoperative Patients
Authors: Kor Chew-Ten , Lin Kai-Huang , Wang Chen-Hsu , Lin Jui-Feng , Kuo Cheng-Deng
Published: January 2021

Background: To investigate the usefulness of ventilator parameters in the prediction of development and outcome of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in postoperative patients with esophageal or lung cancer on admission to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU). Methods: A total of 32 post-operative patients with lung or esophageal cancer from SICU in a tertiary medical center were retrospectively analyzed. The study patients was divided into ARDS group (n = 21) and non-ARDS group (n = 11). ARDS group were the post-operative patients who developed ARDS after lung or esophageal cancer surgery. The ventilator variables were analyzed in this study. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to reduce the correlated ventilator variables to a small set of variables. By using the PCA selection method, top three ventilator variables with large coefficients can be considered as sensitive variables and were included in the analysis model based on the rule of 10 events per variable. Firth logistic regression with selective stepwise elimination procedure was performed to identify the most important predictors of morbidity and mortality in patients with ARDS. The ventilator parameters including rapid shallow breath index during mechanical ventilation (RSBIv), rate pressure product of ventilation (RPPv), rate pressure volume index (RPVI), mechanical work (MW), and inspiration to expiration time ratio (IER) were analyzed in this studyResults: The newly defined parameter MW/IER was the most important predictors for the development of ARDS, and both RPPv and RPVI were the significant predictors of mortality in patients with ARDS.Conclusion: Some ventilator parameters can be derived from ventilator readings and be used to predict the development and outcome of ARDS in mechanically ventilated patients on admission to the SICU, such as RPPv, RPVI and MW/IER defined in this study.
The Investigation of P1 gene in Mycoplasma pneumonia Isolated from atypic pneumonia by molecular methods, determine IgG antibody and MIC to ciprofloxacin antibiotic
Authors: Darabi Zohre , Niakan Mohammad , Khaledi Mansoor , Afkhami Hamed , Javdan Saeid , Darabi Zahra
Published: January 2021

Objective
Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which causes atypical pneumonia, is a well-established pathogen of the respiratory tract. This bacteria is intrinsically susceptible to fluoroquinolones. But Recently, drug-resistant forms of this bacteria have been reported. This study aims to determine the prevalence of this bacteria by ELISA and PCR and MIC to ciprofloxacin.
Methods
The clinical samples (blood and nasopharyngeal swab) were collected from 100 patients who were referred to selective hospitals in Tehran with respiratory complaints were enrolled in 2017.Nasopharyngeal swab sample collections were cultured on PPLO broth and PPLO agar. After culturing and DNA extraction, PCR was performed by specific P1 genes primers. Ciprofloxacin's MIC of Mycoplasma pneumonia isolated was determined by Micro-broth dilution method. Also, measure serum IgG antibody titers were measured by ELISA Mycoplasma pneumonia.
Results
In this study, out of 100 samples 12, bacteria were isolated on PPLO agar.Using specific primers,7 samples of Mycoplasma speciesism-specific were positive for the presence of M.pneumoniae. 2 Ciprofloxacin resistant isolates were evaluated. ELISA results show that the IgG titre antibody In 19 samples is existent. Also,5 samples are intermediate. IgG antibody titre average in the whole sample is 27/66 U/ml but it is in Positive samples by P1 PCR is 45/75 U/ml.
Conclusions
This study showed that PCR is a sensitive and reliable method for rapid detection of M. pneumoniae bacteria in respiratory infectious samples.but the results of this method are different from the ELISA method. also, It seems that the Resistance to ciprofloxacin is relatively common among M. pneumoniae.
Risk Factors for rectal colonization with carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in hospital: a matched case-control study
Authors: meschiari marianna , Kaleci Shaniko , Orlando Gabriella , Selmi Silvia , Santoro Antonella , Bacca Erica , Menozzi Marianna , Franceschini Erica , Puzzolante Cinzia , Bedini Andrea , Sarti Mario , Venturelli Claudia , Vecchi Elena , Mussini Cristina
Published: January 2021

Background
During the last decade carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) became hyper-endemic in hospitals due to difficult to control spreading. Our aim is to identify risk factors for nosocomial rectal CRAB colonization in an endemic hospital.
Methods
A retrospective matched case-control study (ratio 1:2) with a prospective inclusion of cases and concurrent selection of controls was conducted from January 2017 to December 2018 in a tertiary-care hospital. Universal active surveillance for CRAB was implemented. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was carried out using a stepwise selection method to compare prognostic factors between cases and controls. A sub-analysis was carried out according to the type of department.
Results
Forty-five cases with nosocomial rectal CRAB colonization and 90 controls were included. One hundred and two (75%) patients were hospitalized in medical departments. At multivariable analysis significant risk factors associated with CRAB colonization were: use of permanent devices (OR: 10.15, 95%CI: 2.27–45.39; P = 0.002), mechanical ventilation (OR: 40.01, 95%CI: 4.05–395.1; P = 0.002), urinary catheters (OR: 4.9, 95%CI:1.52–16.19; P = 0.008), McCabe score (OR: 5.45, 95%CI: 1.87–15.89; P = 0.002), length of stay (OR: 1.03, 95%CI: 1.01–1.05; P = 0.002), carbapenem use (OR: 5.39, 95%CI: 1.14–25.44; P = 0.033). The sub-analysis showed that patients admitted to different departments had different risk factors. In geriatric department a fatal disease and a longer hospital stay represented significant risk factors both in univariate and multivariate analysis, while in internal medicine department the use of permanent devices, current antibiotic therapy and antibiotic polytherapy represented significant risk factors for CRAB at the univariate analysis, also confirmed in multivariate analysis.
Conclusions
Our data suggest that active surveillance for rectal CRAB colonization should be addressed to patients with an unfavourable prognosis, longer hospitalizations and carriers of multiple devices. To counter CRAB spreading in endemic settings, clinicians must limit the use of carbapenems, and reinforce interventions aimed at proper use of devices.
Outcomes of COVID-19 in a cohort of pediatric patients with rheumatic diseases
Authors: Villacis-Nunez Diana Sofia , Rostad Christina A. , Rouster-Stevens Kelly , Khosroshahi Arezou , Chandrakasan Shanmuganathan , Prahalad Sampath
Published: January 2021

Background

There are few reports of COVID-19 in pediatric patients with rheumatic diseases. This study describes the clinical presentation and outcomes of COVID-19 in this population.
Methods

We analyzed a single-center case series of pediatric patients with rheumatic diseases and laboratory-confirmed COVID-19. Demographic, baseline and COVID-19 associated clinical features were compared between ambulatory and hospitalized patients using univariate analysis.
Results

Forty cases were identified: 32 (80%) in the ambulatory group and 8 (20%) hospitalized. Older age (median age 18 years vs 16 years; p = 0.01) and African American race (OR 8.42; 95% CI [1.20-101.69]; p = 0.01) predominated in hospitalized patients. Systemic lupus erythematosus (OR 6.77; 95% CI [1.01–56.71]; p = 0.02), medium/high-dose corticosteroid use (OR 10.62; 95% CI [1.46–99.57]; p = 0.008), mycophenolate use (OR 11.91; 95% CI [1.64-149.35]; p = 0.005), and severe immunosuppression (OR 16.83; 95% CI [1.74-861.43]; p = 0.004) were associated with increased odds of hospitalization. Patients with fever (OR 11.91; 95% CI [1.64-149.35]; p = 0.004), dyspnea (OR 16.51; CI [1.10-998.37]; p = 0.02), and myalgias (OR 13.40; 95% CI [1.43-194.56)]; p = 0.009) were more commonly encountered in the hospitalized group. Rheumatic disease flares were almost exclusive to hospitalized patients (OR 42.13; 95% CI [3.40-2463.87]; p < 0.001).. All patients recovered.
Conclusions

Medium/high-dose corticosteroid use, mycophenolate use, and severe immunosuppression were risk factors for hospitalization. Fever, dyspnea and myalgias were high-risk symptoms. The type of rheumatic disease, as well as disease flare could be contributing factors to the need for hospitalization.
Identifcation of Pathways and Genes Associated With Meniscus Degeneration Using Bioinformatics Analyses 
Authors: Huang Hui , Zheng Jiaxuan , Tian Haiquan , Fang Yehan , Wang Wei , Wang Guangji , Deng Ming , Lin Jianping
Published: January 2021

There are few studies on the genetic changes of meniscus degeneration. We used anterior cruciate ligament resection of Wuzhishan pig to prepare a meniscus degeneration model, and applied gene chip technology to detect differentially expressed genes in degenerative meniscus tissue. Then we applied GO analysis, Pathway analysis, Core gene network analysis and Relevant miRNAs analysis to discover relevant regulatory networks of meniscus degeneration. As a result, we detected 893 differentially expressed genes, mainly involving hormone, apoptosis, inflammation and other mechanisms, and obtained MUC13, Inflammatory mediator regulation of TRP channels, MDFI, mir-335-5p and so on that may play a key role. In summary, we have established a reliable animal model of meniscus degeneration and found that meniscus degeneration involves several possible molecular mechanisms, which will provide molecular targets for further research of the disease in the future.
Development of a Patient Safety Care Activity Scale for Clinical Nurses in Korea
Authors: Yang Ya Ki
Published: January 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to develop a scale measuring the patient safety care activity scale for clinical nurses and to verify validity and reliability it. Methods: A conceptual framework and construct factors were extracted through extensive literature review and in-depth interviews with nursing professionals. In total, 55 items were derived based on the pilot survey. Data were collected from 428 nurses working at general hospitals and analyzed for verifying the reliability and validity of the scale. Results: 8 factors containing 44 items were extracted from the exploratory factor analysis to verify the construct validity. The 8 factors were security, patient identification, operation (invasive procedure), medication, blood transfusion, management of infection, management of falls & sores, management of firefighting. These items were verified by convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validity testing. The internal consistency reliability was acceptable (Cronbach’s α=.96). Conclusion: The developed patient safety care activity scale is expected to be used as the tool for the development of theory and improvement of patient safety care activities, the empirical testing for cause and effect of patient safety care activities, the development of interventions, education and training programs for improving patient safety care activities, and indicators for evaluation or accreditation of hospital service quality.
Biosynthesis of Pinene in Purple Non-Sulfur Photosynthetic Bacteria
Authors: Wu Xiaomin , Ma Guang , Liu Chuanyang , Qiu Xin-yuan , Min Lu , Kuang Jingyu , Zhu Lingyun
Published: January 2021

Background: Pinene is a monoterpene, that is used in the manufacture of fragrances, insecticide, fine chemicals, and renewable fuels. Production of pinene by metabolic-engineered microorganisms is a sustainable method. Purple non-sulfur photosynthetic bacteria belong to photosynthetic chassis that are widely used to synthesize natural chemicals. To date, researches on the synthesis of pinene by purple non-sulfur photosynthetic bacteria has not been reported, leaving the potential of purple non-sulfur photosynthetic bacteria synthesizing pinene unexplored. Results: Rhodobacter sphaeroides strain was applied as a model and engineered to express the fusion protein of heterologous geranyl diphosphate synthase (GPPS) and pinene synthase (PS), hence achieving pinene production. The reaction condition of pinene production was optimized and 97.51 μg/L of pinene was yielded. Then, genes of 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase, 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase and isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase were overexpressed, and the ribosome binding site of GPPS-PS mRNA was optimized, improving pinene titer to 539.84 μg/L. Conclusions: In this paper, through heterologous expression of GPPS-PS, pinene was successfully produced in R. sphaeroides, and pinene production was greatly improved by optimizing the expression of key enzymes. This is the first report on pinene produce by purple non-sulfur photosynthetic bacteria, which expands the availability of photosynthetic chassis for pinene production.
SLAM/SAP Decreased Follicular Regulatory T Cells in Patients With Graves’ Disease 
Authors: Geng Lina , Yang Jun , Tang Xinyi , Peng Huiyong , Tian Jie , Hu Zhigang , Liu Yingzhao , Xu Huaxi , Wang Shengjun
Published: January 2021

Background: Signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM) and SLAM-associated protein (SAP) play important role in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Our study aimed to detect the expression of SLAM and SAP in patients with Graves’ disease (GD) and analyze the effect of SLAM/SAP on circulating blood CD4+CXCR5+ Foxp3+ follicular regulatory T (Tfr) cells.Methods: The expression of SLAM and SAP was assessed by flow cytometry and real-time PCR. The percentages of IFN-γ+ cells, IL-4+ cells, IL-17+ cells and Foxp3+ cells in CD4+CXCR5+ T cells and circulating CD4+CXCR5+ Foxp3+ Tfr cells after treatment with anti-SLAM and anti-CD3 antibodies were also assessed by flow cytometry. The correlations between the percentages of Tfr cells and the levels of autoantibodies as well as SAP were analyzed.Results: The level of SAP in CD4+CXCR5+ T cells and the level of SLAM on CD19+ B cells were significantly increased in the patients with GD, but no significant difference in the level of SLAM on CD4+CXCR5+ T cells was observed between the patients with GD and the healthy controls. A decrease in the percentage of Foxp3+ cells in CD4+CXCR5+ T cells was observed following anti-SLAM treatment, but the percentages of IFN-γ+ cells, IL-4+ cells and IL-17+ cells showed no obvious differences. The proportion of circulating Tfr cells was decreased in the patients with GD, and the proportion of circulating Tfr cells had a negative correlation with the level of SAP in CD4+CXCR5+ T cells and the levels of autoantibodies in the serum of the patients with GD.Conclusions: Our results indicate that the SLAM/SAP signaling pathway regulates Tfr cells, which may be involved in the pathogenesis of Graves’ disease.
The Effect of Tartaric and Citric Acid as a Complexing Agent on Defect Structure and Conductivity of Copper Samarium Co-doped Ceria Prepared by a Sol-Gel Auto-Combustion Method
Authors: Duangsa Kornrawit , Tangtrakarn Apishok , Mongkolkachit Charustporn , Aungkavattana Pavadee , Moolsarn Klitsada
Published: January 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Risk Factors for Periprocedural Ischemic Stroke following Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Zhang Yisen , Wang Chao , Tian Zhongbin , Zhu Wei , Li Wenqiang , Yang Xinjian , Liu Jian , Zhang Ying
Published: January 2021

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the risk factors of periprocedural ischemic stroke associated with endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms using a real-world prospective database.MethodsFrom August 2016 to March 2017, 200 patients with 217 aneurysms who underwent 206 endovascular procedures were enrolled. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to examine the risk factors for periprocedural ischemic stroke.ResultsAmong the 206 endovascular procedures, periprocedural ischemic stroke occurred in 23 procedures (11.17%). After univariate analysis, the ischemic group had a higher proportion of large (≥ 10 mm) aneurysms than the control group (39.1% vs. 20.2%, p = 0.040). The incidence of periprocedural ischemic stroke was higher in cases treated by flow diverter (18.60%) or stent-assisted coiling (12.28%) than in cases treated by coiling only (2.04%), and the differences were statistically significant (p = 0.036). After multivariate logistic regression analysis, treatment modality was the independent risk factor for periprocedural ischemic stroke. Compared with the coiling-only procedure, flow diverter therapy was associated with a significantly higher rate of periprocedural ischemic stroke (OR 13.839; 95% CI 1.617–118.416; p = 0.016). Stent-assisted coiling also tended to present more often with periprocedural ischemic stroke than coiling alone (OR 7.559; 95% CI 0.958–59.618; p = 0.055).Conclusions﻿Aneurysm size and treatment modality were associated with periprocedural ischemic stroke. Larger aneurysms were associated with increased risk of periprocedural ischemic stroke. Flow diverter therapy was associated with significantly more periprocedural ischemic stroke than the coiling procedure alone.
Effectiveness of Photon-initiated Photoacoustic Streaming in Root Canal Models With Different Width or Taper
Authors: Wen Cheng , Kong Yuanyuan , Zhao Jian , Li Yang , Shen Ya , Yang Xuechao , Jiang Qianzhou
Published: January 2021

Background: To evaluate the sterilization effect of photon-initiated photoacoustic streaming (PIPS) in different widths or different tapers root canal systems.Methods: Artificial root canal samples (n=480) were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=160/group). The canals were prepared into size #10/.02, #25/.02 or #25/.06. Four different irrigation solutions were activated with conventional needle irrigation (CNI) or laser-activated irrigation (LAI). Bacterial suspensions and biofilms were assessed with adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) assay kit and fluorescent microscopy.Results: When the root canal taper is 0.02, size #10 with LAI had a significant reduction of the bacteria than #25 with CNI (P < .05). When the apical width is 25, taper 0.02 with LAI had a significant reduction of the bacteria than taper 0.06 with CNI (P < .05). 5.25% NaOCl attained superior antibacterial and bacteriostatic effects as compared to the other irrigants, followed by 2% NaOCl. 2% and 5.25% NaOCl combined with PIPS can effectively enhance the long-term antibacterial effect of root canal after incubation for 6 hours.Conclusions: Compared with CNI, PIPS have stronger ability to remove bacteria in root canals with a small preparation width and a small taper. PIPS with 2% and 5.25% NaOCl can have superior antibacterial and bacteriostatic effects.
Blood Mercury Levels in Relation to Overweight in Korean Children and Adolescents: Results From The Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010-2013
Authors: CHO KY YOUNG
Published: January 2021

Background: Previous researches for adults have demonstrated a substantial role of mercury exposure in the development of overweight and obesity development, but those findings are inconsistent. Although children and adolescents are more susceptible to the toxic effect of mercury compared to adults, the research of overweight and obesity related to mercury exposure in children and adolescent is scarce. This study aimed to investigate the association of blood mercury levels with body mass index (BMI) in Korean children and adolescents.Methods: The cross-sectional data analyzed were obtained from 1327 participants (age: 10-18 years, 672 males and 655 females) who completed the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010-2013. The adjusted covariates were age, sex, household income, total intake of seafood in the previous 24 hours, and current status of alcohol consumption and smoking. Results: The adjusted geometric mean blood mercury level was 2.19 µg/L and increased significantly in the overweight group and the highest seafood consumption quartile compared with the level in the normal weight group and lowest seafood consumption quartile, respectively (P < 0.001). The adjusted blood mercury levels were significantly positively correlated with BMI in all participants and females (P < 0.05). When stratified by age and sex, all participants and males in the highest blood mercury level quartile were at higher risk of overweight than those in the lowest quartile (odds ratios [95% confidential intervals, CIs]: 1.78 [1.06-2.98], and 2.06 [1.01-4.23], respectively) after adjusting for the covariates (P < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic analysis of blood mercury levels for predicting overweight revealed that the area under the curve was 0.603 (P < 0.001).Conclusions: Our study suggested a significant association between mercury exposure and the risk of overweight in Korean children and adolescents.
Public Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices towards COVID-19 and assessment of risks of infection: An online cross-sectional survey in India
Authors: Suresh Arumuganainar , Konwarh Rocktotpal , Singh Anand Pratap
Published: January 2021

The global debacle, ushered in by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) needs no elaboration. India has documented 10.5 million cases, of which 10.1 million have recovered while more than 151 thousand people have succumbed to the pandemic as of January 10, 2021. Of late, the second wave of the infection and new variants of the virus have also surfaced across various latitudes and longitudes of the globe. Various control measures have been adopted globally, however, the success and effectiveness of the control measures are affected by people’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards the pandemic. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the level of KAP toward COVID-19 among the Indian public. A cross-sectional online survey of Indian public was conducted between 18th May 2020 and 24th June 2020. The survey questionnaire consisted of demographic characteristics, pertaining to knowledge (15 items), attitude (10 items), and practices (7 items), modified from a previously published questionnaire on COVID-19. A total of 566 persons completed the survey. The overall correct rate and the average score of the knowledge questionnaire were 75.8 % and 13.6 ± 2.7 respectively. Attitude and practice scores were respectively 3.55 ± 0.45/5 and 2.75 ± 0.43/3 towards COVID-19, respectively. Maximum respondents demonstrated moderate level of knowledge (67.6 %) and attitude (96 %) while 81.9 % were found to follow good practices towards the pandemic. A positive correlation was observed between knowledge towards practice and attitude towards practices. Despite the good practice skills, a considerable percentage (6 %) of respondents never wore nose masks, washed hands, and maintained social distance during the outbreak. By the same token, 3.2 %, and 14.9 % of the public were in high and in the medium risk of infection, respectively. Due to the limited sample, we must be cautious when generalizing these findings to whole populations. Nevertheless, the study highlighted the indispensability of befitting health education programs aimed at improving KAP among the mass.
Gene Expression Profiles Underlying Aggressive Behavior in the Prefrontal Cortex of Cattle
Authors: Eusebi Paulina G. , Sevane Natalia , O´Rourke Thomas , Pizarro Manuel , Boeckx Cedric , Dunner Susana
Published: January 2021

Background: Aggressive behavior is an ancient and conserved trait habitual for most animals in order to eat, protect themselves, compete for mating and defend their territories. Genetic factors have been shown to play an important role in the development of aggression both in animals and humans, displaying moderate to high heritability estimates. Although, such types of conducts have been studied in different animal models, the molecular architecture of aggressiveness remains poorly understood. This study compared gene expression profiles of 16 prefrontal cortex (PFC) samples from aggressive and non-aggressive cattle breeds: Lidia, selected for agonistic responses, and Wagyu, selected for tameness. Results: A total of 918 up-regulated and 278 down-regulated DEG were identified. The functional interpretation of the up-regulated genes in the aggressive cohort revealed enrichment of pathways such as the Alzheimer disease-presenilin, integrins or the ERK/MAPK signaling cascade, all implicated in the development of abnormal aggressive behaviors and neurophysiological disorders. Moreover, gonadotropins, are also up-regulated as natural mechanisms enhancing aggression. Concomitantly, heterotrimeric G-protein pathways, associated with low reactivity mental states, and the GAD2 gene, a repressor of agonistic reactions associated with PFC activity, are down-regulated, promoting the development of the aggressive responses selected for in Lidia cattle. We also identified six upstream regulators, whose functional activity fits with the etiology of abnormal behavioral responses associated with aggression. Conclusions: These transcriptional correlates of aggression, resulting, at least in part, from controlled artificial selection, can provide valuable insights into the complex architecture that underlies naturally developed agonistic behaviors.This analysis constitutes a first important step towards the identification of the genes and metabolic pathways that impulse aggression in cattle and, hence, we are providing a novel species as model organism for disentangling the mechanisms underlying variability in aggressive behavior.
Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Epidemiology of Knee and Shoulder Arthroscopy Procedures in a University Hospital Department in Poland
Authors: Kazubski Krystian , Tomczyk Łukasz , Morasiewicz Piotr
Published: January 2021

Background: The purpose of our study was to comprehensively assess the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on knee and shoulder arthroscopies performed in an orthopedic department of a university hospital in Poland.Methods: This study compared the data on shoulder and knee arthroscopy procedures performed in two different periods: the period of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland (from March 4, 2020 to October 15, 2020) and the corresponding period prior to the pandemic (March 4, 2019–October 15, 2019). The study evaluated epidemiological data, demographic data, and hospital stay duration.Results: The total number of arthroscopy procedures conducted in the evaluated period in 2020was approximately 8.6% higher than that in the corresponding 2019 period.The mean duration of hospital stay for orthopedic patients after their knee or shoulder arthroscopy was 3.1 days in 2020 and 2.8 days in 2019. Our study revealed the mean age of arthroscopy patients during the pandemic to be lower at 48.4 years than the 51.2 years recorded in 2019.The male-to-female ratio was shown to be lower at 0.85 during the pandemic, having decreased from 1.5 in 2019Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic did not reduce the number of arthroscopies performed at our center and the mean age of the patients did not change. However, the pandemic had a marked effect on the mean duration of hospital stay and male-to-female ratio.
The Anterior Capsule of the Hip Joint Is a Major Hindrance to the Surgical Treatment of Basicervical Intertrochanteric Fractures: A Single Center, Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Shin Won Chul , Moon Nam Hoon , Jang Jae Hoon , Jung Seok Jin
Published: January 2021

BackgroundThe basicervical intertrochanteric fracture has recently received considerable attention as one of the major risk factors for failure of internal fixation. We aimed to analyze the anatomical characteristics of basicervical intertrochanteric fractures related to their surgical outcomes using three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) and to determine the causes for the high failure rate of surgery.MethodsBetween May 2015 and October 2019, 226 patients with intertrochanteric fracture of the femur including 58 basicervical types who were treated with femoral nail were evaluated. Following data were collected to find out the risk factors for surgical failure: fracture patterns (unstable or basicervical type), tip apex distance, type of postoperative reduction (acceptable or unacceptable), and continuity of anterior capsule for logistic regression analysis to determine the risk factors for surgical failuresResultsUnion was achieved in 215 patients (95.1%), with 11 surgical failures (4.9%), including 10 non-unions (4.6%) and 1 osteonecrosis of the femoral head (0.4%). Seven surgical failures (8.7%) were identified in the unstable fracture group, 6 (10.3%) in the basicervical type group, and 10 (19.6%) in the unacceptable reduction group. Multivariate analysis showed that unstable fracture (OR 10.311, 95% CI 1.165 – 91.229, p = 0.036), basicervical type (OR 11.564, 95% CI 1.339 – 99.872, p = 0.026), and unacceptable reduction (OR 28.364, 95% CI 3.428 – 234.695, p = 0.002) were significant predictors for surgical failure. Unacceptable reduction (OR 13.180, 95% CI 1.336 – 130.059, p = 0.027) was the only risk factor for surgical failure in the basicervical intertrochanteric fracture group. A chi-square test showed that an intact anterior capsule was statistically correlated with surgical failure (p = 0.043) and unacceptable reduction (p = 0.008).ConclusionsBecause the intact anterior capsule of the hip joint may hinder achieving acceptable reduction, the evaluation of the anterior capsule should be included as an important preoperative assessment for the surgical treatment of basicervical intertrochanteric fracture.Level of Evidence﻿Level III, retrospective cohort study
Individualized, Low-Cost And Accessible Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Based On Functional Clinical Tests For Individuals With Copd– A Study Protocol Of A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: SILVA Marcela Maria Carvalho da , ARCURI JULIANO FERREIRA , LORENZO VALERIA AMORIM PIRES DI
Published: January 2021

Backgroud:Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) present pulmonary and extrapulmonary impairments. In order to mitigate these impairments, pulmonary rehabilitation programs (PRP) it is an important strategy but the access to PRP in specialized center is limited and the studied of low-cost home rehabilitation programs had non-individualized prescription, which might have led to insignificant positive effects. So, it is important to develop new low-cost protocols that involves individualized prescription, and the influence of physiotherapist supervision. The aim of this study was to describe an accessible, low-cost and individualized pulmonary rehabilitation protocol and compare its results when performing it with or without a weekly physiotherapist-supervised session on patients with COPD. Methods: This is a descriptive protocol of a clinical trial with parallel equivalent groups, conducted at the Spirometry and Respiratory Physical Therapy Laboratory of the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar). The trial was registered at Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBec) URL: http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-533hht/ with Register Number RBR-533hht. The sample size was 40 patients and was calculated using the results of a pilot study.Discussion- potencial impact and significance of the study: It is expected that the low cost and new supervised rehabilitation program complemented with home exercises will present positive results especially on exercise capacity, which will make available a more accessible and effective PRP for patients with COPD.Trial registration: The name of the registry was Responsibility of functional tests on supervised rehabilitation program and education program in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,with registration number: RBR-533hht. The date of registration and start data was September 20, 2018.
Syphilis Infection During Pregnancy will Increases the Risk of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy- Results from A Case-Control Study in China
Authors: Zhang Xiangyi , Yang Huixin , Sun Lixin , Hu Jing , Li Mujinyan , Li Fande , An Shuqi , Zhang Siwen , Wang Taijun , Zhen Qing
Published: January 2021

BackgroundThe incidence of pregnancy syphilis remains at a high level in China. Studies investigating the influencing factors of pregnancy syphilis are mainly concentrated in economically developed areas. Limited studies were conducted in northern China. This study mainly aimed to explore the related factors of pregnancy syphilis and examine the association with the risk of Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.MethodsThis case-control study compared pregnancy syphilis cases, matched (1:1) to non-syphilitic pregnant women controls by age, which was diagnosed in Changchun between January 2014 and December 2018. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify potential correlates of HDP in syphilis populations. Then a propensity score-matched method was conducted to match pregnancy syphilis with and without HDP, and further we explore the related factors of HDP in syphilis by multivariable logistic regression.ResultsIn our study, the median age of syphilis in the case group was 28 years (range 16-53 years). A high rate of syphilis-HDP co-infection（49/349, 12.3%）was observed in syphilis patients and further research revealed an association between syphilis and HDP. Multivariate analysis indicated HDP in syphilis was independently associated with Dysmenorrhea [adjusted odds ratio (a OR) 5.413, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.410-12.158], Maternal anemia (a OR 3.808, 95% CI 1.833-7.911), Total cholesterol (a OR 3.144, 95% CI 1.485-6.655).ConclusionSyphilis infection in pregnancy associate with the increased risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, attention should also be paid to the occurrence of HDP in the lower age group, to further prevent the occurrence of stroke, cardiovascular disease. Besides, Dysmenorrhea, Maternal anemia, Total cholesterol may be risk factors for HDP in syphilis.
Chamber Specification During Direct Cardiac Reprogramming
Authors: Zhang Zhentao , Villalpando Jesse , Zhang Wenhui , Nam Young-Jae
Published: January 2021

Forced expression of core cardiogenic transcription factors can directly reprogram fibroblasts to induced cardiomyocyte-like cells (iCMs) in vitro and in vivo. This cardiac reprogramming approach provides a proof of concept for induced heart regeneration by converting a fibroblast fate to a cardiomyocyte fate. However, it remains elusive whether chamber-specific cardiomyocytes can be generated by cardiac reprogramming. Therefore, we assessed the ability of the cardiac reprogramming approach for chamber specification in vitro and in vivo. We found that in vivo cardiac reprogramming post-myocardial infarction exclusively generates ventricular-like iCMs, while a major fraction of iCMs generated in vitro fail to determine their chamber identities. Our results indicate that in vivo cardiac reprogramming may have an inherent advantage of generating chamber-matched new cardiomyocytes as a potential heart regenerative approach.