bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ventricular Function in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Prasad Rameshwar , Saha Bijan , Kumar Amit
Published: August 2021

There is emerging evidence supporting ventricular function as a prognostic factor in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the predictive value of early ventricular function for survival and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) requirement in newborns with CDH. PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Central Register, Clinical Trial Registry, and Opengrey were accessed. Studies evaluating associations between echocardiographic ventricular function measured ≤ 48 h after birth and survival or ECMO requirement were included. Two independent authors extracted the following data: study and participant characteristics, prognostic factors, and outcome-related data. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Five studies reported on survival, two on ECMO, and four on both outcomes. A moderate risk of bias was found in most of the studies, mainly because of selection, prognostic factors, and confounding biases. For survival (899 participants), pooled sensitivity and specificity were 86% (95% confidence interval [CI], 77–92%) and 44% (95% CI, 25–65%), respectively, in normal left ventricular function. For ECMO need (815 participants), pooled sensitivity and specificity were 39.8% (95% CI, 27–52%) and 88% (95% CI, 80–96%), respectively, in left ventricular dysfunction. Overall certainty of the evidence was graded very low for survival and low for ECMO. Inconsistent reporting of echocardiographic measurements and lack of adjustment for confounding factors were major limitations. Conclusions: Early ventricular dysfunction is a potential prognostic factor in CDH. Standardized echocardiographic measurement reporting and high-quality studies are needed to further elucidate its prognostic significance.
A novel Long-noncoding RNA LncZFAS1 prevents MPP+-induced neuroinflammation through MIB1 activation
Authors: Zhu Ziman , Huang Peiling , Sun Ruifeng , Li Xiaoling , Li Wenshan , Gong Weijun
Published: August 2021

Parkinson’s disease remains one of the leading neurodegenerative diseases in developed countries. Despite well-defined symptomology and pathology, the complexity of Parkinson’s disease prevents a full understanding of its’ etiological mechanism. Mechanistically, α-synuclein misfolding and aggregation appears central for disease progression, but mitochondrial dysfunction, dysfunctional protein clearance and ubiquitin/proteasome systems, and neuroinflammation have also been associated with Parkinson’s disease. Particularly neuroinflammation, which was initially thought to be a side effect of Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis, has now been recognized as driver of Parkinson’s disease exacerbation. Next-generation sequencing identified a plethora of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) with important transcriptional regulatory functions. Moreover, a myriad of lncRNA are known regulators of inflammatory signaling and neurodegenerative diseases including IL-1β secretion and Parkinson’s disease. Here lncZFAS1 was identified as a regulator of inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in human neuroblast SH-SY5Y cells following MPP+ treatment, a common in vitro Parkinson’s disease cell model. Mechanistically, TXNIP ubiquitination through MIB1 E3 ubiquitin ligase regulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation in neuroblast cells. In contrast MPP+ activates the NLPR3 inflammasome through miR590-3p up-regulation, and direct interference with MIB1-dependent TXNIP ubiquitination. LncZFAS overexpression inhibits this entire pathway through direct interference with miR590-3p exposing a novel therapeutic target to prevent excessive inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in neuroblast cells during Parkinson's disease.
Adherence to Antiretroviral and Cancer Chemotherapy, and Associated Factors Among Patients with HIV–Cancer Co-Morbidity at the Uganda Cancer Institute: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Achieng Caroline , Bunani Nelson , Kagaayi Joseph , Nuwaha Fred
Published: August 2021

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a major global public health issue affecting millions of people, and sub-Saharan Africa where Uganda lies is is disproportionately affected. There has been an increase in cancer among HIV patients which has resulted into use of co-medications that sometimes affect ART and cancer chemotherapy adherence. We aimed to determine adherence to antiretroviral and cancer chemotherapy and the associated factors among patients with HIV-cancer co-morbidity at the Uganda Cancer Institute.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 200 randomly selected adult cancer patients infected with HIV, attending Uganda cancer institute. Antiretroviral and anti-cancer chemotherapy adherences with associated factors were assessed quantitatively. We collected the data using interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaires. Modified Poisson regression with robust standard errors was used to estimate prevalence ratios at 95% confidence intervals for factors associated with adherence to ART and cancer chemotherapy.Results: Overall, 54% (107/200) of the study participants adhered to both ART and chemotherapy, and 55% (110/200) adhered to ART while 65% (129/200) adhered to cancer chemotherapy. A majority, 61% (122/200) of the respondents were males. The mean age of the respondents was 42(SD±11years), and at least 43% (86/200) belonged to protestant religion. More than half, 56.5% (113/200) were married and at least 45% (90/200) had attained a primary level of education. Patients with good adherence to antiretroviral therapy and chemotherapy were 107(54%, 95% CI=46.5-60.4). No knowledge of cancer stage (PR=0.4, 95% CI=0.25-0.56, P<0.0001), having an AIDS defining cancer (PR=0.7, 95% CI=0.50-0.88, P=0.005), ART clinic in district not near Uganda Cancer Institute (PR=0.7,95% CI=0.84-0.96, P=0.027) and affordability of cancer chemotherapy (PR=1.4, 95% CI=1.02-1.87, P=0.037) were associated with adherence to both ART and cancer chemotherapy.Conclusion: Adherence to both ART and cancer chemotherapy was low. Factors significantly associated with adherence were: knowledge of the cancer stage by the patient, the type of cancer diagnosis, source of ART and affordability/ availability of medications. There is need to provide information on stage of cancer and adherence counseling to patients. Furthermore, Integration of HIV- cancer care will be necessary for efficient and effective care for the patients.
Trends in Opioid Prescribing by County Following Pennsylvania PDMP Implementation.
Authors: MILLER CHAIM , SHERMAN MATTHEW B. , ILYAS ASIF M.
Published: August 2021

Background: The opioid epidemic has hit all corners of the United States but has disproportionately affected geographical areas to varying extents over the last thirty years. Rural areas have had higher rates of opioid prescribing than urban areas. However, urban counties have higher rates of opioid overdose deaths than rural counties. This study aims to outline the trends in opioid prescribing between rural and urban counties in the state of Pennsylvania since the implementation of a statewide prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP).Methods: Data pertaining to opioid prescribing habits as listed below were obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Health who administers the PDMP in Pennsylvania. Study data that were of interest and provided by the PDMP were: Drug name, quantity of prescriptions, average daily morphine milligram equivalents (MME), and days supplied. Urban and Rural categorizations were provided by The Center for Rural Pennsylvania, a legislative agency of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. The timeline for this study analyses began from Q1 2017 through Q1 2020. T-tests were used to compare the county informationResults: Opioid prescriptions from 2017 to 2020 decreased on average by 35% (SD= 0.13) in rural counties and 33% (SD= 0.10) in urban counties (P= 0.114). Change in average daily MME was 0.13 (SD=0.06) in the rural group and 0.14 (SD=0.03, p=0.229). Days supplied per prescription showed no significant changes between rural and urban counties with regards to; less than 3 days, 4-7 days, 8-21 days, and 31+ days. A significant decrease was seen in the 22–30-day subgroup between the rural (0.36 SD=0.08) and urban counties (0.31 SD=0.04 p=0.003).Conclusion: No significant changes were seen in the decline of opioid prescribing habits between rural and urban counties in Pennsylvania from 2017 to 2020. This compounds on similar state-specific studies showing no significant difference in the rate of decline between rural and urban counties.
Cotton Stalk Compost as a Substitution to Farmyard Manure Along with Mineral Fertilizers and Microbials Enhanced Bt Cotton Productivity and Fibre Quality in Rainfed Vertisols
Authors: Velmourougane Kulandaivelu , Manikandan Angamuthu , Blaise D. , Vellaichamy Mageshwaran
Published: August 2021

Cotton stalks, remaining after the cotton is harvested, are considered waste material and disposed of by burning. Presently, the supply of good quality manure, such as farmyard manure (FYM) is low. Thus, recycling of cotton stalks as compost can reduce the dependency on FYM apart from reducing inorganic fertilizer use and soil health enhancement. Some studies have reported on the conversion of cotton ginnery wastes into organic manure. However, no studies have reported about the composting of cotton stalks. We conducted field studies over three years on Vertisols to evaluate the impact of integrated use of microbially enriched cotton stalk compost (ECC) as an alternative to FYM along with mineral fertilizers in cotton production. Additionally, we evaluated an option of using native microbial consortia as seed treatment and their synergistic effect along with ECC application on cotton yield, fibre quality, and soil properties. Results indicated that the substitution of FYM with ECC in integrated nutrient management (INM) produced effects similar to that of FYM use in enhancing cotton yield and soil properties. Application of ECC + inorganic fertilizers (modified nutrient management practice) in soil increased boll numbers (8.4%), boll weight (9.9%), seed cotton yield (13%), fibre properties, soil nutrient, and biological activities, which were on par with FYM + inorganic fertilizer application. The use of ECC is estimated to reduce 50% costs on nitrogenous, phosphatic, and potassic fertilizers, and can save approximately US$ 34 ha− 1 on inorganic and manures in the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) and INM practice.
The ROCK-Ezrin Signaling Pathway Mediates LPS-Induced Cytokine Production in A549 Cells
Authors: Ding Ning , Li Huiqing , Gao Baofeng , Lei Yunlong , Zhang Zengzhen
Published: August 2021

Background: Ezrin/radixin/moesin proteins (ERMs) are members of the protein 4.1 superfamily and function as linkers that connect the actin cytoskeleton to the plasma membrane of cells. ERMs also play critical role in the Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response. However, the signaling mechanisms involved remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential role of the rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase (ROCK) pathway in LPS-induced ezrin phosphorylation and cytokine production in A549 cells. Methods: Cultured A549 cells were treated with LPS. The expression and localization of ezrin in A549 cells were analyzed by Western bloting and immunoflurescence. The activation of RhoA/ROCK was assessed by Western bloting and RhoA activity assays. The interaction of ezrin with Syk and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/IL-1R-associated kinase 1 (IRAK-1) was investigated using co-immunoprecipitation. The activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was measured with electrophoretic mobility shift assay and Western blotting. ELISA and Western bloting were performed to detect tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) release into the culture supernatant and cellular HMGB1 levels.Results: Here, we show that LPS induced ezrin phosphorylation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The blockade of RhoA/ROCK inhibited LPS-induced ezrin phosphorylation and its translocation from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane. Co-immunoprecipitation assays further revealed that ezrin associated with Syk constitutively, but only associated with MyD88/IRAK-1 upon LPS challenge. Moreover, LPS-induced p38 and nuclear NF-κB activation was found to be ezrin dependent. The suppression of ezrin by siRNA or the blockade of ROCK activation with Y-27632 reduced the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and HMGB1 in response to LPS. Conclusions: Our findings reveal a novel regulatory mechanism involving ezrin in LPS induced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and highlight the importance of the RhoA/ROCK-MyD88/IRAK1-ezrin/Syk axis. Data presented in this manuscript provide novel insights into the signaling pathways activated in A549 cells by LPS.
Genetic Variation And Association Mapping of Phenolic, Flavonoid Content And Antioxidant Capacity In USDA Rice Mini-Core Collection
Authors: Li Qingzhu , Ge Yongyi , Wang Lily Yan , Li Kehu
Published: August 2021

Genotypic diversity of total phenolics, flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity in the USDA rice mini-core collection was analyzed. Wide genotypic variation was found in total phenolics, flavonoid content and ABTS antioxidant capacity. Genome-wide association mapping between the three antioxidant traits and 155 SSR markers was conducted using Q + K model which takes both population structure (Q) and relative kinship (K) into consideration. A total of 23 marker trait association were identified with markers from Rc gene showed the strongest association with the three antioxidant traits. Rid12, RM484, RM162, RM5371 were commonly detected for phenolic content, flavonoids content and antioxidant capacity.
Color Doppler Ultrasonography of an Agitated Solution is Predictive of Accurate Catheter Placement for a Continuous Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block
Authors: Bowens Clifford , Badiola Ignacio , Allen Brian , Canlas Christopher , Gupta Rajnish , Jaeger Lisa , Briggs Eric , Corey John , Shi Yaping , Schildcrout Jonathan , Malchow Randall
Published: August 2021

Background: Continuous peripheral nerve catheters (PNCs) have been shown to provide superior postoperative analgesia, decrease opioid consumption, and improve patient satisfaction compared with single injection techniques. In order to achieve success and reliability, accurate catheter positioning is an essential element of PNC placement. An agitated solution of normal saline, D5W, or a local anesthetic solution can be produced by the introduction of air to the injectate, creating air bubbles that can enhance ultrasonographic visualization and possibly improve block success.Methods: Eighty-three patients were enrolled. Ultrasound-guided continuous popliteal sciatic nerve blocks were performed by positioning the tip of a Tuohy needle between the tibial and common peroneal branches of the sciatic nerve and threading a catheter. An agitated local anesthetic solution was injected through the catheter, viewed with color Doppler ultrasound and video recorded. A peripheral block score (lower score = greater blockade, range 0-14) was calculated based upon the motor and sensory testing at 10, 20, and 30 minutes after block completion. The color Doppler agitation coverage pattern for the branches of the sciatic nerve was graded as follows: complete (> 50%), partial (> 0%, ≤ 50%), or none (0%).Results: The degree of nerve blockade at 30 minutes as judged by median (10 th, 90 th percentile) peripheral block score was significant for partial or complete color Doppler coverage of the sciatic nerve injectate compared to no coverage [3 (0, 7) vs 8 (4, 14); p < 0.01] and block onset was faster (p = 0.03). The block success was higher in groups with partial or complete coverage of the branches of the sciatic nerve vs no coverage (96% vs 70%; p = 0.02).Conclusions: Injection of an agitated solution through a popliteal sciatic perineural catheter is predictive of accurate catheter placement when partial or complete coverage of the sciatic nerve branches is visualized with color Doppler ultrasound.Trial Registration: NCT01591603
Heterologous Expression, Characterization and Evolution Prediction of a Diaphorase From Geobacillus sp. Y4.1MC1
Authors: Shang Jinzhao , Yue Shuohao , Zeng Fang , Chen Yun , Jia Longgang
Published: August 2021

β-hydroxybutyric acid is the most sensitive indicator in ketoacidosis detection, and accounts for nearly 78% of the ketone bodies. Diaphorase is commonly used to detect the β-hydroxybutyric acid in clinical diagnosis. However, the extraction of diaphorase from animal myocardium is complex and low-yield, which is not convenient for large-scale production. In this study, a diaphorase from Geobacillus sp. Y4.1MC1 was efficiently heterologous expressed and purified in E. coli a yield of 110 mg/L culture. The optimal temperature and pH of this recombinant diaphorase (rDIA) were 55 °C and 6.5, respectively. It was proved that rDIA was a dual acid- and thermo-stable enzyme, and which showed much more accurate detection of β-hydroxybutyric acid than the commercial enzyme. Additionally, we also investigated the molecular interaction of rDIA with the substrate, and the conformation transition in different pH values by using homology modeling and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The results showed that 141-161 domain of rDIA played important role in the structure changes and conformations transmission at different pH values. Moreover, it was predicted that F105W, F105R and M186R mutants were able to improve the binding affinity of rDIA, and A2Y, P35F, Q36D, N210L, F211Y mutants were benefit for the stability of rDIA.
Percutaneous Full Endoscopic Posterior Decompression for Revision of Lumbar Spinal Dynamic Stabilization
Authors: Zheng Changkun , Liao Zhong , cui Weiliang
Published: August 2021

Objective: The objective of this article was to analysis the efficacy of percutaneous full endoscopic posterior decompression for revision of lumbar spinal dynamic stabilization.Methods: Twenty consecutive patients with failed lumbar spinal dynamic stabilization presenting with leg pain that had supporting imaging diagnosis of lateral stenosis and /or residual / recurrent disc herniation, or whose pain complaint was supported by relief from diagnostic and therapeutic injections, were offered percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy and foraminoplasty over a repeat open procedure. Each patient sought consultation following a transient successful, partially successful or unsuccessful open lumbar spinal dynamic stabilization surgery for disc herniation or spinal stenosis. Endoscopic foraminoplasty was also performed to either decompress the bony foramen for foraminal stenosis, or foraminoplasty to allow for endoscopic visual examination of the affected traversing and exiting nerve roots in the axilla. The average follow up time was, average 37.9 months, minimum 24 months. Outcome data at each visit included Macnab, VAS and ODI.Results: The average leg Visual Analog Scale improved from 8.9 ± 2.6 to 1.08± 0.7 (p < 0.005). Fifteen patients had excellent outcomes, four had good outcomes, one had fair outcomes, and no had poor outcomes, according to the Macnab criteria (Table 2). Nineteen of 20 patients had excellent or good outcomes, for an overall success rate of 95%. No patients required reoperation. There were no incidental durotomies, infections, vascular or visceral injuries. They were also relieved to be able to avoid "open" decompression.Conclusion: The transforaminal endoscopic approach is effective for failed lumbar spinal dynamic stabilization surgery due to residual/recurrent nucleus pulposus and lateral stenosis. Failed initial index surgery may involve failure to recognize patho-anatomy in the axilla of the foramen housing the traversing and the exiting nerve. The transforaminal endoscopic approach effectively decompresses the foramen and does not further destabilize the spine needing stabilization. It also avoids going through the previous surgical site.
Topical Corticosteroid Therapy for Facial Acneiform Eruption due to EGFR Inhibitors in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Starting with a Very Strong or a Weak Topical Corticosteroid (FAEISS Study, NCCH1512, Colorectal Part)
Authors: Kikuchi Katsuko , Yamazaki Naoya , Nozawa Keiko , Fukuda Haruhiko , Shibata Taro , Machida Ryunosuke , Hamaguchi Tetsuya , Takashima Atsuo , Shoji Hirokazu , Boku Narikazu , Takatsuka Sumiko , Takenouchi Tatsuya , Nishina Tomohiro , Yoshikawa Shusuke , Takahashi Masanobu , Hasegawa Akiko , Kawazoe Akihito , Masuishi Toshiki , Mizutani Hitoshi , Kiyohara Yoshio
Published: August 2021

Background: Althoughpre-emptive therapy with oral tetracycline, moisturizer, sunscreen and topical corticosteroid isuseful for preventing acneiform eruption (AfE) due to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, no studies have examinedthe efficacy of topical corticosteroids themselves, or investigated the optimal strength of the corticosteroid for treating facial AfE (FAfE).Patients and Methods: Screened patients with RAS wild-typecolorectal cancerstarted pre-emptive therapy with oral minocycline and moisturizeron initiation of cetuximab or panitumumab therapy. Patients who developed grade 1 or 2 FAfEwere randomly allocated to two groups:a ranking-down (RD) group,started with a very strong corticosteroid, and serially ranked down every 2 weeks unless FAfE exacerbated, and a ranking-up (RU) group, started with a weak corticosteroid and serially ranked up at exacerbation. FAfE grade, patient quality of life, and adverse events (AEs) with topical corticosteroid were evaluated every 2 weeks.The primary endpoint was the total number of times grade 2 or higher FAfEidentified in thecentral review of the 8-weektreatment period.Results: No significant differences in total numbers of grade 2 or higher FAfE and inAEs caused by topical corticosteroids were observedbetweengroups during the 8-week. Incidence of grade 2 or higher FAfEwas tended to lower inthe RD group during the first 2 weeks.Conclusion: Considering long-term care of FAfE, the RU regimen appears suitableand should be considered the standard treatment for FAfEdue to EGFR inhibitor therapy. Trial registration: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000024113)
Long COVID in Hospitalized and Non-Hospitalized Patients in a Large Cohort in Northwest Spain, A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: González Alexandre Pérez , Araújo Alejandro , Fernández-Villar Alberto , Crespo Manuel , Poveda Eva
Published: August 2021

Background. Survivors to COVID-19 have described long-term symptoms after acute disease. These signs constitute a heterogeneous group named long COVID or persistent COVID.Objective: The aim of this study is to describe persisting symptoms six months after COVID-19 diagnosis in a prospective cohort in the Northwest SpainDesign. This is a prospective cohort study performed in the COVID-19 Cohort of Galicia Sur Health Institute (COHVID-GS). Participants: This cohort includes patients in clinical follow-up in a health area of 569,534 inhabitants after SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 diagnosis. Clinical and epidemiological characteristics were collected during the follow up.Main measures and key results. A total of 284 patients completed 6 months follow-up, 176 (69.4%) required hospitalization and 29 (10.2%) of them needed critical care. At six months, 119 (48.0%) patients described one or more persisting symptoms. The most prevalent were: extra-thoracic symptoms (39.1%), chest symptoms (27%), dyspnoea (20.6%), and fatigue (16.1%). These symptoms were more common in hospitalized patients (52.3% vs 38.2%) and in women (59.0% vs 40.5%). The multivariate analysis identified Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), female gender and tobacco consumption as risk factors for long COVID.Conclusions. Persisting symptoms are common after COVID-19 especially in hospitalized patients compared to outpatients (52.3% vs. 38.2%). Based on these findings, special attention and clinical follow-up after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection should be provided for hospitalized patients with previous lung diseases, tobacco consumption, and females.
Agro-Waste Mediated Silica Nanoparticles and Their Application to Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Goswami Pooja , Mathur Jyoti
Published: August 2021

Sustainable managing of environment implies the utilization of green approaches in agronomy for growth and crop protection. Since crop production is determined by extensive application of pesticide to resist plant infection and fertilizers to increase fertility of soil, these processes result in ecological unit deterioration as well economic cost. The current research aims at assessment of the potential of nanofertilizers and fungicidal activity of Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) which have synthesized from agro-waste (sugarcane bagasse and corn cob).SiNPs Nanoparticles display exceptional biological functions and might behave as novel antifungal agents. SiNPs were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX).The plant reaction to SiNPs treatments were observed in relation to germination, growth characteristics, protein, chlorophyll, antioxidant and antifungal activities. Germination rate was enhanced upto 95.5% with SiNPsconcentration and growth parameters were increased upto1000ugL-1. The physiological changes showed the increment in protein and chlorophyll content upto 14.8mg g-1 and 4.08 mg g-1, respectively. Other than this, maximum mycelia growth inhibition was reported for Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger as73.42% and 58.92%, respectively. SiNPs positive response on Eruca sativa plant might improve its productivity and act as a potential antifungal agent against pathogenic fungi.
The Effect of Amendment Addition Drill Cuttings On Heavy Metals Accumulation In Soils And Plants: Experimental Study And Artificial Network Simulation
Authors: Kujawska Justyna , Pawłowska Małgorzata
Published: August 2021

A greenhouse experiment was carried out to evaluate the influence of drill cuttings addition on the accumulation of heavy metals in soil, in plant biomass (Trifolium pretense L.) cultivated on soils with the addition of this type of waste. The transfer and transformation of heavy metals in the soil with drill cuttings– Trifolium pretense L were discussed.Drilling waste in the amount of 2.5%, 5%, 10% and 15% of dry weight were added to acidic soil. The concentrations of heavy metals in the soil and plant materials were determined by an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method. Results indicated that drilling wastes addition had a positive influence on the growth of Trifolium pretense L. However, the concentrations of heavy metals increased in the prepared mixtures along with the dose of drilling wastes. The drilling wastes addition also changed the metal accumulation capacity in plant parts. Nevertheless, the concentrations of heavy metals in soils and above-ground parts of plants did not exceed the permissible values in respective legal standards. The values of the heavy metals bioconcentration coefficient in Trifolium pretense L at the highest dose of drill cuttings were as follows: in the above-ground parts Cd>Cu>Ni>Cr>Pb>Zn, in roots Cd>Ni>Cr>Zn>Pb>Cu.An artificial neural network model was developed in order to predict the concentration of heavy metals in the plants cultivated on the soils polluted with drill cuttings. The input (drill cuttings dose, pH, organic matter content) and the output data (concentration of heavy metals in the shoot cover) were simulated using an artificial neural network program. The results of this study indicate that an artificial neural network trained for experimental measurements can be successfully employed to rapidly predict the heavy metal content in clover. The artificial neural network achieved coefficients of correlation over 90%.
The Anatomical Position and Size of Greater Palatine Foramen and Canal in an Iranian Sample Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Valizadeh Solmaz , Ahmadi Seyedeh Mahshid , Ahsaie Mitra Ghazizadeh , Vasegh Zahra , Jamalzadeh Navid
Published: August 2021

IntroductionDetection of exact location of greater palatine foramen and its anatomical variations are vital prior to posterior maxillary surgeries and gingival grafts. The aim of this study is to determine the anatomical position and size of the greater palatine canal (GPC) and foramen (GPF) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.Materials and methodsIn this descriptive-analytic study, CBCT images of 148 patients were assessed. To determine the anatomical foramen position, the posterior maxilla area was divided into five regions on the axial view (A: from the mesial surface of the second molar to the center of the second molar, B: from the center of the second molar to its distal, C: from the mesial surface of the third molar to the center of the third molar, D: from the center of the third molar to the distal of the third molar, E: distal to the third molar.). The length of the canal was investigated on both coronal and sagittal views. Independent and paired T-test were used to analyze the data.ResultsAmong 80 females -68 males, the anatomical position of the GPF was mainly located in region E on the left (55%) and the right (50%), and then, respectively, in region D and region C. The mean diameter of GPF was 4/48 mm on the left and 4/63 mm on the right side (P-value = 0/01). The average length of the canal on the coronal view was 29.46 mm on the left side and 29.75 mm on the right (P-Value = 0/005). The average length of the canal on the sagittal view was 29.62 mm on the left and 30.02 mm on the right (P-value = 0/001).ConclusionThe anatomical position of the GPF was primarily located distal to the third maxillary molar. CBCT is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluation of vital anatomic landmarks in the maxillofacial region prior to surgeries and interventions.
Pickering Emulsion Stabilized By Hydrophobically Modified Spherical Cellulose Nanocrystals With Special Response To pH
Authors: Dong Hui , Jiang Yifei , Li Xia , Han Wenjia , Ding Qijun , Lou Jiang , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2021

The aims of this study were to study the performance changes of S-CNCs (spherical cellulose nanocrystals) modified by OSA (octenyl succinic anhydride) stabilized Pickering oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and contact angle change of the MS-CNCs (modified spherical cellulose nanocrystals) prove the successful modification of OSA and the improvement of hydrophobicity. The effect of a series of MS-CNCs concentration on the volume mean diameter, emulsion ratio, stability and micro-rheological characteristic viscosity of the emulsion was studied. The results show that the emulsifying ability of the S-CNCs have been greatly improved. In addition, at a concentration of 10g/l, the volume mean diameter reaches the nanometer level (0.95 µm), and the emulsion ratio reaches 100%, while still maintaining its unique ultra-low viscosity characteristics. Furthermore, the emulsion still exhibits high-strength resistance to ionic strength, but exhibits unique responsiveness to pH (pH≤5) at special stages.
Co-Creation of HIVST Delivery Approaches for Improving Urban Men’s Engagement with HIV Services in eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal: Nominal Group Technique
Authors: Mashamba-Thompson Tivani , Lessells Richard , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Drain Paul , Thabane Lehana
Published: August 2021

Background: HIV self-testing (HIVST) is one of the recommended approaches for HIV testing services, particularly for helping reach populations who would not normally access facility-based HIV testing. HIVST must be tailored to different populations to ensure uptake. Objective: The main objective of this study was to develop an acceptable HIVST delivery strategy to help improve urban men’s engagement with HIV services. Methods: We invited key stakeholders for urban men’s HIV services to participate in a co-creation workshop aimed at developing HIVST delivery approaches for urban men, using eThekwini municipality as a study setting. We conducted purposive sampling to include health care users and health care providers, representing a range of views across the public sector and voluntary sector. We employed the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) method for data collection. The NGT workshop was conducted in two consecutive phases: phase one was focused on determining barriers for men’s engagement with the current/facility-based HIV testing services; phase two was aimed at determining HIVST delivery strategies. We used the results of the NGT to design a tailored HIVST strategy for urban men in eThekwini District. Results: Participants identified the following psychological factors as the most important barriers to uptake of HIV testing services by urban men: stigma, ignorance about the importance of testing and testing process as well as fear of positive test results. Key stakeholders suggested internal motivation strategies as a potentially effective approach to support HIVST delivery strategy. Guided by the NGT results, we designed a HIVST delivery strategy that is supported by a risk communication approach. Conclusion: We designed an evidence-based risk communication mobile health (mHealth) strategy coupled with SARS COV-2 self-testing tailored to improve men’s uptake of HIVST. A follow-up study to evaluate the feasibility of implementing these approaches is recommended.
The Influence of the Femoral Condyle Sagittal Curvature on ACL Rupture
Authors: Milovanović Darko , Bumbaširević Marko , Kadija Marko , Begović Ninoslav , Djulejić Vuk , Aleksić Dubravka , Starčević Ana , Stijak Lazar
Published: August 2021

Purpose: The femoral condyle diameter may influence anterior tibial translation whose main stabilizer is the ACL. The aim of this study is to determine the influence of the size of the lateral and medial femoral condyles on ACL rupture. Methods: 41 matched pairs of subjects were included in the study who had suffered knee injury and were either professional or recreational athletes engaged in track and field or sports involving intensive rotation movements. The experimental group was composed of patients with ACL rupture, while the control group comprised patients with joint distortion without ACL. The diameter of the medial and lateral condyles were measured on sagittal MRI images of these patients’ knees. Results: Subjects with ACL rupture had a highly statistically significantly shorter diameter of the lateral condyle as compared to their matched pairs from the control group (p<0.01). Also, the lateral condyle of the subjects with ACL rupture had a significantly lesser diameter as compared to the medial condyle (p<0.01), which was not the case in patients without ACL rupture (p>0.05). Patients with intact ACL demonstrated significant indirect correlation of the diameter of both femoral condyles with the valgus angle of the lower leg (p<0.01). Conclusions: The shorter diameter of the lateral femoral condyle is connected with ACL rupture, both in women and men. The lack of correlation between the diameter of the femoral condyles and the valgus angle of the lower leg also represents a factor connected to ACL rupture.
WITHDRAWN: Exosomes Derived from Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Preconditioned by Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Stimulation Promote Bone-Tendon Interface Fibrocartilage Regeneration and Ameliorate Rotator Cuff Fatty Infiltration
Authors: Wu Bing , Chen Huabin , Shi Xin , Wang Lingfeng , Zhang Tao , Guan Changbiao , Huang Tingmo , Yang Yuying , Hu Jianzhong , Lu Hongbin
Published: August 2021

Fibrovascular scar healing of bone-tendon interface (BTI) instead of functional fibrocartilage regeneration is the main concern associated with unsatisfactory prognosis in rotator cuff repair. Mesenchymal stem cells exosomes have been reported to be a new promising cell-free approach for rotator cuff healing. Whereas, controvercies abound in whether exosomes of native MSCs alone can effectively induce chondrogenesis. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of Exosomes derived from low-intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation (LIPUS)-preconditioned bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (LIPUS-BMSC-Exos) or un-preconditioned BMSCs (BMSC-Exos) on rotator cuff healing and the underlying mechanism. Specifically, C57BL/6 mice underwent unilateral supraspinatus tendon detachment and repair were randomly assigned to saline, BMSCs-Exos or LIPUS-BMSC-Exos injection therapy. The results indicated that the biomechanical properties of the supraspinatus tendon-humeral junction were significantly improved in the LIPUS-BMSC-Exos group than that of the BMSCs-Exos group. The LIPUS-BMSC-Exos group also exhibited a higher histological score and more newly regenerated fibrocartilage at the repair site at postoperative 2 and 4 weeks and less fatty infiltration at 4 weeks than the BMSCs-Exos group. In vitro, co-culture of BMSCs with LIPUS-BMSC-Exos could significantly promote BMSCs chondrogenic differentiation and inhibit adipogenic differentiation than the BMSCs and BMSC-Exos co-cultured group did. Subsequently, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed significantly higher enrichment of chondrogenic miRNAs and less enrichment of adipogenic miRNAs in LIPUS-BMSC-Exos compared with BMSC-Exos. Moreover, we demonstrated that this chondrogenesis-inducing potential was primarily attributed to miR-140, one of the most abundant miRNAs in LIPUS-BMSC-Exos. Collectively, our results highlight the regenerative potential of LIPUS-BMSC-Exos to promote BTI fibrocartilage regeneration and ameliorate supraspinatus fatty infiltration by positive regulation of pro-chondrogenetic and anti-adipogenetic of BMSCs differentiation which was primarily through delivering miR-140.
Adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells can Alleviate Hypertrophic Scars and Affect the Biological Activity and Oxidative Stress-related Factors of Hypertrophic Scar Fibroblasts
Authors: Li Shiyi , Yang Jinxiu , Chen Minliang
Published: August 2021

Background As a fibrotic disease with a high incidence, the pathogenesis of hypertrophic scarring is still not fully understood, and its treatment is also very difficult. In recent years, human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) have been considered an effective treatment for fibrotic diseases, such as keloids. This study mainly explores the therapeutic effect and possible mechanism of ADSCs on hypertrophic scars.Methods After coculture, western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR) were used to detect gene and protein expression in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (HSFs). Flow cytometry was used to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS), and apoptosis, cell proliferation and migration were also detected. A nude mouse animal model was established, the effects of ADSCs on hypertrophic scars were observed, and H&E staining, Masson staining and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein content detection were performed.Results Our experimental results show that ADSCs can inhibit HSF proliferation and migration and promote apoptosis. Our experimental results show that ADSCs can inhibit the proliferation and migration of HSFs and promote apoptosis. ADSCs also increase the ROS of HSFs, reduce superoxide dismutase (SOD), NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and reduce the expression of Nrf2 and BCL2. In in vivo experiments, we found that ADSCs can reduce the weight of hypertrophic scars, rearrange collagen fibres, and significantly reduce the Nrf2 content in tissues.Conclusion ADSCs can alleviate hypertrophic scars, promote the rearrangement of collagen fibres, and affect the biological activity of hypertrophic scar fibroblasts and oxidative stress-related factors.
Performance Assessment Across Different Care Settings of A Novel Heart Failure Hospitalisation Risk Score For Type 2 Diabetes Patients Developed Using Administrative Claims Only
Authors: Guazzo Alessandro , Longato Enrico , Sparacino Giovanni , Franco-Novelletto Bruno , Cancian Maurizio , Fusello Massimo , Tramontan Lara , Battaggia Alessandro , Avogaro Angelo , Fadini Gian Paolo , Camillo Barbara Di
Published: August 2021

Predicting the risk of cardiovascular complications, in particular heart failure hospitalisation (HHF), can improve the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Most predictive models proposed so far rely on clinical data not available at the higher Institutional level. Therefore, it is of interest to assess the risk of HHF in people with T2D using administrative claims data only, which are more easily obtainable and could allow public health systems to identify high-risk individuals. In this paper, the administrative claims of >175,000 patients with T2D were used to develop a new risk score for HHF based on Cox regression. Internal validation on the administrative data cohort yielded satisfactory results in terms of discrimination (max AUROC=0.792, C-index=0.786) and calibration (Hosmer-Lemeshow test p-value<0.05). The risk score was then tested on data gathered from two independent centers (one diabetes outpatient clinic and one primary care network) to demonstrate its applicability to different care settings in the medium-long term. Thanks to the large size and broad demographics of the administrative dataset used for training, the proposed model was able to predict HHF without significant performance loss concerning bespoke models developed within each setting using more informative, but harder-to-acquire clinical variables.
Ecological Niche Modeling Predicting the Potential Distribution of African Horse Sickness Virus from 2020 - 2060
Authors: Assefa Ayalew , Tibebu Abebe , Bihon Amare , Dagnachew Alemu , Muktar Yimer
Published: August 2021

African horse sickness is a vector-borne, non-contagious and highly infectious disease of equines caused by African Horse Sickness viruses (AHSv) that mainly affect horses. The occurrence of the disease causes huge economic impacts because of its fatality rate is high, trade ban and disease control costs. In planning of vectors and vector borne diseases, the application of Ecological niche models (ENM) used an enormous contribution in exactly delineating the suitable habitats of the vector. We developed an ENM with the objective of delineating the global suitability of AHSv outbreaks retrospective based on data records from 2005–2019. The model was developed in R software program using Biomod2 package with an Ensemble modeling technique. Predictive environmental variables like mean diurnal range, mean precipitation of driest month(mm), precipitation seasonality (cv), mean annual maximum temperature (oc), mean annual minimum temperature (oc) mean precipitation of warmest quarter(mm), mean precipitation of coldest quarter (mm) mean annual precipitation (mm), solar radiation (kj /day), elevation/altitude (m), wind speed (m/s) were used to develop the model. From these variables, solar radiation, mean maximum temperature, average annual precipitation, altitude and precipitation seasonality contributed 36.83%, 17.1%, 14.34%, 7.61%, and 6.4%, respectively. The model depicted the sub-Sahara African continent as the most suitable area for the virus. Mainly Senegal, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Madagascar and Malawi are African countries identified as highly suitable countries for the virus. Besides, OIE-listed disease-free countries like India, Australia, Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia have been found suitable for the virusThis model can be used as an epidemiological tool in planning control and surveillance of diseases nationally or internationally.
GSTpi Reduces DNA Damage And Cell Death By Regulating The Ubiquitination And Nuclear Translocation of NBS1
Authors: Zhou Jinyi , Gu Lili , Shi Yingying , Huang Ting , Fan Xirui , Bi Xiaowen , Lu Shuai , Liang Juanjuan , Luo Lan , Cao Peng , Yin Zhimin
Published: August 2021

Glutathione S-transferase pi (GSTpi) is an important phase Ⅱ detoxifying enzyme that participates in various physiological processes, such as antioxidant, detoxification, and signal transduction. The high expression level of GSTpi has been reported to be related to drug-resistant and anti-inflammatory and it functioned via its non-catalytic ligandin. However, the previous protection mechanism of GSTpi in DNA damage has not been addressed so far. Nijmegen breakage syndrome 1 (NBS1) is one of the most important sensor proteins to detect damaged DNA. Here, we investigated the interaction between GSTpi and NBS1 in HEK-293T cells and human breast adenocarcinoma cells during DNA damage. Our results showed that overexpression of GSTpi in cells by transfecting DNA vector decreased the DNA damage level after Methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) or Adriamycin (ADR) treatment. We found that cytosolic GSTpi could increase NBS1 ubiquitin-mediated degradation in unstimulated cells, which suggested that GSTpi could maintain the basal level of NBS1 during normal conditions. In response to DNA damage, GSTpi can be phosphorylated in Ser184 and inhibit the ubiquitination degradation of NBS1 mediated by Skp2 to recover NBS1 protein level. Phosphorylated GSTpi can further enhance NBS1 nuclear translocation to activate the ATM-Chk2-p53 signaling pathway. Finally, GSTpi blocked the cell cycle in the G2/M phase to gain more time for cells to repair. Thus, our finding revealed the novel mechanism of GSTpi via its Ser184 phosphorylation to protect cells from cell death during DNA damage and it enriches the function of GSTpi in drug resistance.
Triggering Mechanisms of Gayari Avalanche, Pakistan
Authors: Saif Bilal , Tahir Muhammad , Sultan Amir , Iqbal Muhammad Tahir , Iqbal Talat , Shah Mohammad Ali , Gurmani Samia
Published: August 2021

A massive snow avalanche occurred on April, 2012 at Gayari, located in NE part of Pakistan, close to India and China Border. The catastrophic avalanche killed nearly 148 people, majority of which were Pakistan army personnel destroying army base camp. To mitigate its future hazard, different triggering mechanisms have been investigated in this study. We contemplate that the avalanche was triggered due to snow pack existence on favorable slope in combination with different meteorological conditions and anomalous ground vibration. The avalanche occurrence clock was advanced by two earthquakes: M4.1 at a distance ∼ 125 km that occurred about 21 hours before and another comparatively larger (M5.6) earthquake that occurred comparatively at larger distance (∼ 370 km) and longer time (∼ 25 days) before which have significantly changed the loading conditions. The latter event (M 5.6) has imparted maximum peak dynamic stress and cumulative seismic moment a month before the avalanche. Interestingly the avalanche occurred within the seismic coda of M2.8 earthquake from Hindu Kush region, located at 560 km distance. Although the size and its expected impact on avalanche might be minor but its role in instantaneous triggering cannot be ruled out. Even smaller events at larger distance have been reported to cause snow avalanches in same environments. The presence of cracks within the avalanche, were further weaken by persistence of extremely low temperature (lowest in the past decade), causing high precipitation rate along with altering the mechanical properties of the weak layer within the snow pack. Robust wind pressure pattern highest and lowest in March and April, 2012 respectively might be responsible for abrupt changes in loading conditions.