bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilateral Erecta Luxation
Authors: Stirma Guilherme Augusto , Secundino Armando Romani , Baracho Filipe Ribas , Dau Leonardo
Published: September 2020

Case:

A 69-year-old man fell from a height, resulting in direct axial loading while both shoulders were fully abducted. He was referred to the surgical ward, and both shoulders were reduced by closed reduction using the traction-countertraction maneuver. After little improvement of complaints of pain in the right shoulder over 45 days, magnetic resonance demonstrated traumatic rupture of the supraspinatus.

Conclusion:

Inferior dislocation (luxation erecta) is an uncommon event, with bilateral dislocation being even rarer. Treatment should be initiated urgently via closed reduction or, if this is not possible, through open reduction. The long-term prognosis is favorable after appropriate treatment.
Musicians Have Thicker Median Nerve Cross Sectional Area and More Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Than Non-Musicians
Authors: Pratt Emily , Vauth Henning , McIlvain Gary , Timmons Mark K
Published: September 2020

AIMS: Musicians spend numerous hours perfecting their skills and art, often leading to overuse injuries of the hand; of specific concern to musicians is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This study evaluated the median nerve cross-sectional area and hand function of musicians and made comparisons
to non-musicians. METHODS: Seventy-six participants took part in the study, 38 music students and professors in the musician group and 38 participants in the control group. Participants completed patient-reported questionnaires to assess the level of pain and hand function. Ultrasound images
were collected at the carpal tunnel inlet and outlet. The median nerve cross-sectional area and the depth of the carpal tunnel were measured on ultrasound images using software imbedded in the ultrasound unit. RESULTS: Musicians showed higher levels of hand dysfunction and CTS symptoms than
the non-musicians. The median nerve cross-sectional area was greater in musicians than in the non-musician group on both the right (mean difference 1.5 mm2, p=0.002) and left sides (mean difference 0.9 mm2, p=0.036). The depth of the carpal tunnel at the carpal tunnel inlet and outlet did
not differ between the groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The current research identified between-group differences in median nerve cross-sectional area and the level of hand dysfunction. Understanding the interaction between the anatomy of the wrist and wrist and hand dysfunction will benefit
clinicians when evaluating and treating musicians.
Violists and Violinists Report More Intense Hand Pain on NRS Than Other Orchestra Musicians
Authors: Vastamäki Martti , Vastamäki Heidi , Ristolainen Leena , Laimi Katrinas , Saltychev Mikhail
Published: September 2020

AIMS: Among musicians, string players have the highest prevalence for musculoskeletal overuse. Playing a violin or viola requires rapid, repetitive, and complicated movements of the hands and fingers. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine whether violin/viola, violin/cello, and
violin/French horn players experience more intense musculoskeletal pain than other instrumentalists. METHODS: The study sample consisted of 590 orchestra musicians (354 male, 236 female, mean age 36 yrs). Self-administered questionnaires were used to assess pain of the back, neck, shoulder,
face, jaw, and upper extremity. Pain intensity during the last 7 days was measured by an 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS) with a score from 0 to 10, as well as was disadvantage at work and leisure. RESULTS: Of the interviewed musicians, 20% presented playing-related musculoskeletal disorders
at the time of the interview. Compared to other professional orchestra musicians, violin and viola players reported significantly more intense pain in the hand during the last week. Also, they had experienced more frequent neck pain ever and in 5 years than the others. During the past 30 days,
violin and viola players had also perceived more harm in their upper limb joints. Violin/cello and violin/French horn players did not differ from the others. CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed that musicians playing the violin or viola have more intense hand pain and more frequent neck pain than
other musicians, but these seem to disturb their daily tasks only a little.
Apresentação
Authors: Módolo Marcelo
Published: September 2020

.
Advantages of an APS/AES Seawater-Based Surfactant Polymer Formulation
Authors: Southwick Jeffrey G. , van Rijn Carl , van den Pol Esther , van Batenburg Diederik , Azhan Arif , Kalantar Ahmadanis , Zulkifli Nazliah
Published: September 2020

A low-complexity chemical flooding formulation has been developed for application in offshore environments. The formulation uses seawater with no additional water treatment beyond that which is normally performed for waterflooding (filtration, deoxygenation, etc.). The formulation is a mixture of an alkyl propoxy sulfate (APS) and an alkyl ethoxy sulfate (AES) with no cosolvent. With seawater only (no salinity gradient), the blend of APS and AES gives substantially higher oil recovery than a blend of APS and internal olefin sulfonate (IOS) in outcrop sandstone. This formulation also reduces complexity, increases robustness, and potentially improves project economics for onshore projects as well.

It is shown that the highest oil recovery is obtained with surfactant blends that produce formulations that are underoptimum (Winsor Type I phase behavior) with reservoir crude oil. Also, these underoptimum formulations avoid the high-injection pressures that are seen with optimum formulations in low-permeability outcrop rock. The formulation recovers a similar amount of oil in reservoir rock in the swept zone. Overall recovery in reservoir rock is lower than outcrop sandstone due to greater heterogeneity, which causes bypassing of crude oil.

A successful formulation was developed by first screening surfactants for phase behavior then fine tuning the formulation based on insights developed with corefloods in consistent outcrop rocks. The consistency of the outcrop is essential to understand cause and effect. Then, final floods were performed in reservoir rock to confirm that low interfacial tension (IFT) is propagated through the core.
Fracture Prevention Following Offshore Well Blowouts: Selecting the Appropriate Capping Stack Shut-In Strategy
Authors: Michael Andreas , Gupta Ipsita
Published: September 2020

Following uncontrolled discharge during loss of well control events, fracture initiation occurring during the post-blowout capping stage can lead to reservoir fluids broaching to the seafloor. A classic example is Union Oil's 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara Channel, where fracture initiation at various locations caused thousands of gallons per hour to broach onto the ocean floor over a month before it could be controlled (Mullineaux 1970; Easton 1972). Disasters such as these could be prevented if the effects of the post-blowout loss of well control stages (uncontrolled discharge and capping) are incorporated into the shut-in procedures, and the wellbore architectures are modified accordingly.

In this study, analytical models are used to simulate the loads on the wellbore during the different stages of loss of control. Capping pressure buildup during the shut-in is modeled to indicate fracture initiation points during the capping stage. Using these models, the critical capping pressure for a well is determined, and subsequent critical discharge flow rates are calculated. Fracture initiation would occur if the actual discharge flow rate is below the calculated critical discharge flow rate. A hypothetical case study using typical deepwater Gulf of Mexico (GOM) parameters is performed demonstrating the likelihood of fracture initiation during different discharge flow rates, discharge periods, and capping stack shut-in methods (single-step/“abrupt” or multistep/“incremental”). An abrupt shut-in for this case study leads to fracture initiation at approximately 8 hours after shut-in, while a five-step incremental shut-in is shown to prevent any fracture initiation during the 48 hours after the beginning of the shut-in. Reservoir depletion through longer discharge periods or higher discharge flow rates, despite the adverse environmental effect, can delay or even prevent fracture initiations during post-blowout capping.

The ability to model these fracture failures enhances the understanding of wellbore integrity problems induced during loss of control situations and helps create workflows for predicting possible broaching scenarios during the post-blowout capping stage. Dimensionless plots are used to present fracture initiation for different cases—this is useful for drilling and wellbore integrity engineers for making contingency plans for dealing with loss of well control situations.
Primary Outcomes of Combined Cataract Extraction Technique with Ab-interno Trabeculectomy  and Endoscopic Cyclophotocoagulation  in Patients with Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Izquierdo Juan Carlos , Mejias Josefina , Cañola Laura , Agudelo Natalia , Rubio Barbara
Published: September 2020

Background: To determine the outcome of using combined phacoemulsification technique, ab-interno trabeculectomy dual blade and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) surgeries in patients with primary open angle glaucoma. Methods:  A retrospective case series was performed on 27 consecutive eyes with both primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and cataract; each eye was treated with combined phacoemulsification, ab-interno trabeculectomy-Kahook Dual Blade and Endocyclophotocoagulation at Instituto de ojos Oftalmosalud, Lima, Peru, between April 2017 and May 2017. Inclusion criteria: 1) Patients with uncontrolled mild to advanced POAG (according to Glaucoma Grading Scale HODAPP) 2) cataract condition 3) treatment with two or more glaucoma medications due to rapid progression in the visual fields (at least two in a short period of time). Intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) logMAR and number of glaucoma medications were recorded prior to the study, at day 1, week 1, and 1,3,6 and 9 months after surgery. Primary outcome measure was surgical success defined in terms of IOP <14 mmHg either with no medications (complete success) or with medications (qualified success). Results: A total of 27 eyes from 27 patients were included. The mean basal IOP was 17.0±3.7 mmHg and postoperatively was 11.6±1.9 mmHg and 11.4±1.8 mmHg (P<0.001) at 6 and 9 months respectively. Glaucoma medications decreased from 1.9±1.4 to 0.56±1.05 at 9 month follow-ups (P<0.001). Preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) showed and improvement from 0.4± 0.4 LogMAR to 0.2 ± 0.4 logMAR at 9 months. The main complication was blood reflux intra-operatively (66.7%), which resolved without re-operation. The mean IOP was reduced by 32.9% from baseline and the surgical success was 92,6%, (complete success 70,3% and qualified success 29,6%) at 9 months.Conclusions: In patients with POAG, combined treatment with phacoemulsification, ab-interno trabeculectomy and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation effectively reduced IOP and glaucoma medication dependence.
The growing use of the WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist: Lessons learned at the Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: DOHBIT Julius Sama , WOKS Namanou Ines Emma , KOUDJINE Carlin Héméry , TAFEN Willy , FOUMANE Pascal , ASSUMPTA Lucienne BELLA , OGU Rosemary Nkemdilim , III Fru Fobuzshi ANGWAFO
Published: September 2020

Background: Safe childbirth remains a daunting challenge, particularly in low middle-income countries, where most pregnancy-related deaths occur. Cameroon's maternal mortality rate, estimated at 529 per 100,000 live births in 2017 is significantly high. The WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist (SCC) was designed to improve the quality of care provided to pregnant women during childbirth. It was implemented at the Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital to improve the quality of care during childbirth. Methods: A retrospective study to determine the adoption rate of the SCC and its association with maternal (eclampsia, perineal tears, post-partum haemorrhage) and neonatal (foetal death, neonatal asphyxia and neonatal death) complications. Data was collected six months after the introduction of the SCC at the maternity. The Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables, while the student's T-test was used to compare continuous variables. Results: Out of 1611 deliveries conducted, 1001 records were found, giving a retrieval rate of 62%. Twenty-five records were excluded. During the study period, checklists were used in 828 of 976 clinical notes, giving a mean adoption rate of 84.8% and utilization rate of 93.9% at six months. Severe pre-eclampsia/eclampsia were associated with the non-use of SCC (2.1% Vs 5.4%, p = 0.017). Stillbirth, neonatal asphyxia, and neonatal death rates were not statistically different between checklist and non-checklist groups. However, in all neonatal outcomes, the proportion of complications was less when the checklist was used.Conclusion: The use of the safe childbirth checklist was associated with significantly reduced pregnancy complications, especially reducing severe pre-eclampsia/ and eclampsia. The use of the safe childbirth checklist increased to 93.9% of all deliveries within six months. We advocate for the use of the WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist in maternity units.
Catalytic hydrolysis of Dichlorodifluoromethane over MoO3/ZrO2 -TiO2 solid acid
Authors: Li Zhiqian , Zhou Tong , Ren Guoqing , Tan Xiaofang , Jia Lijuan , Liu Tiancheng
Published: September 2020

The catalytic behaviors of solid acid of MoO3/ZrO2-TiO2 calcined at different temperature for the catalytic hydrolysis of Dichlorodifluoromethane have been studided. The effects of catalytic hydrolysis temperature and water vapor concentration on catalytic hydrolysis of Dichloro difluoromethane were also studied. The Results show 98.65 % of Dichlorodifluoromethane is degraded over MoO3/ZrO2-TiO2 catalyst calcined at 500 ℃ with a concentration of water vapor of 83.18% when the hydrolysis temperature is 350 ℃ and the Dichlorodifluoromethane flux rate is 1 mL/min with main degradation products were CO, CO2, HF and HCl. A maintained degradation rate of 65.34% of Difluoromethylene Chloride has been observed through 30 hours’ continuous reaction over the catalyst of MoO3/ZrO2-TiO2. The XRD result reveals the main phase of solid MoO3/ZrO2-TiO2 catalyst is the tetragonal Zr (MoO4)2 that dopedTiO2 of anatase.
Worse treatment response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in young patients with locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Yiyi , Yan Liangliang , Wu Yong , Xu Meifang , Liu Xing , Guan Guoxian
Published: September 2020

Background: To evaluate the impact of age on the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).Method: LARC patients undergoing NCRT and radical surgery from 2011 to 2018 were divided into young (<40 years) and old (≥40 years) groups. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictive factors for pathological complete response (pCR). Predictive nomograms and decision curve analysis were used to compare the models including/excluding age groups. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to detect CD133 expression in LARC patients.Result: A total of 901 LARC patients were analyzed. The young group was associated with poorly differentiated tumors, more metastatic lymph nodes, higher perineural invasion, and a lower tumor regression grade (P = 0.008; P < 0.001; P < 0.001; P = 0.003). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that age <40 years (HR = 2.190, P = 0.044), tumor size (HR = 0.538, P < 0.001), pre-NCRT cN stage (HR = 0.570, P = 0.036), and post-NCRT CEA level (HR = 0.877, P = 0.001) were significantly associated with pCR. Predictive nomograms and decision curve analysis demonstrated that the predictive ability of models including the age group was superior to that of models excluding the age group. Higher CD133 expression was more common in young LARC patients.Conclusion: Young patients with LARC were associated with lower pCR rates following NCRT. The ability of the predictive model was greater when based on the age group. Young LARC patients were associated with a higher CD133+ tumor stem cell burden, which contributed to the lower pCR rates.
Comparative Evaluation of Posterior Percutaneous Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy Using 3.7mm Endoscopic and 6.9mm Endoscopic for Cervical Disc Herniation: a retrospective comparative cohort study.
Authors: Yu Tong , Wu Jiu-Ping , Zhang Jun , Yu Hai-Chi , Liu Qinyi
Published: September 2020

Background. Posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (p-PECD) is an effective strategy for cervical diseases which working cannula ranges from 3.7 mm to 6.9 mm. However, no studies were performed to compare the clinical outcomes of endoscopes with different diameters in cervical disc herniation (CDH) patients. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of unilateral CDH patients treated with p-PECD applying the 3.7mm endoscopic with those treated with the 6.9mm endoscopic. Methods. From January 2016 to June 2018, totally 28 consecutive patients presented with single-level CDH who received p-PECD using the 3.7mm endoscopic or the 6.9mm endoscopic were enrolled. The indications for this study were as follows: (1) Unilateral cervical spondylotic radiculopathy with pain irradiated to upper extremity, (2) MRI and CT scan show that foraminal CDH located lateral to the edge of spinal cord, from C4–C5 to C7–T1, (3) Unilateral symptoms caused by foraminal stenosis, (4) Failure after conservative treatment for at least 6 weeks or neurological symptoms aggravated. Patients were evaluated neurologically pre- and postoperatively. The clinical outcomes, including the operation time, the hospitalization, the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the modified MacNab criteria, were evaluated. Cervical fluoroscopy, CT, and MRI were performed during follow up.Results. The mean surgical duration of the 3.7mm endoscopic was 76.5 minutes compared with 61.5 minutes for 6.9mm endoscopic (P<0.05). Moreover, there was significant difference with regard to average identification time of “V” point (18.608±3.7607min vs. 11.256±2.7161min, p＜0.001) and mean removal time of overlying tissue (16.650±4.1730 min vs. 12.712±3.3079 min, p＜0.05) between 3.7mm endoscopic and 6.9mm endoscopic. The VAS and MacNab scores postoperatively of the two endoscopies were significantly improved compared with that before operation (p＜0.05).Conclusion. Both 3.7mm endoscopic and 6.9mm endoscopic are effective methods for CDH in selected patients, and there is no significant difference in clinical outcomes. 6.9mm endoscopic is superior to 3.7mm endoscopic in the efficiency of “V” point identification, overlying soft tissue removal and spinal cord injury prevention. Furthermore, 6.9mm endoscopic is inferior to 3.7mm endoscopic in anterior decompression of the intervertebral foramen.
Sample preparation and imaging procedures for fast and multiplexed superresolution microscopy with DNA-PAINT-ERS
Authors: Civitci Fehmi , Shangguan Julia , Zheng Ting , Tao Kai , Rames Matthew , Kenison John , Zhang Ying , Wu Lei , Phelps Carey , Esener Sadik , Nan Xiaolin
Published: September 2020

DNA point accumulation for imaging in nanoscale topography (DNA-PAINT) facilitates multiplexing in superresolution microscopy but is practically limited by slow imaging speed. We have developed DNA-PAINT-ERS, where E=ethylene carbonate, R=repeating sequence, and S=spacer, for fast and multiplexed superresolution imaging with DNA-PAINT. Here we describe detailed procedures for DNA-PAINT-ERS including reagent preparation, sample labeling, as well as image acqusition and analysis.
Knowledge, awareness and practices of malaria in Western Area Rural District, Sierra Leone: a household-based cross-sectional survey in the middle of National Malaria Strategic Plan (2016-2020)
Authors: WANG Lili , Yin Jianhai , Zheng Canjun , Smith Samuel Juana , Ngegba Esther , Huang Xiaoxia , Kamara Anitta , Chen Xia , Wang Xu , Luo Wei , Kan Biao
Published: September 2020

Background The malaria epidemic is high in Sierra Leone, and the implementation of the National Malaria Strategic Plan (2016-2020) has reached its middle stage. In order to guide the interventions more specifically in future, a household-based cross-sectional survey was conducted to understand the public perception of knowledge, attitudes and practices of malaria and its control.Methods Three communities (Grafton, Jui and Kossoh) in Western Area Rural District within close proximity to Sierra Leone’s capital city of Freetown were included. Households were randomly selected and interviewed with a structural questionnaire covering malaria infection, diagnosis, treatment and prevention, as well as the knowledge of malaria prevention, in collaboration with the National Malaria Control Program of the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Sierra Leone. Results A total of 262 qualified questionnaires were included. The average cost for meals per day is around 30000 Leones in each household. The awareness rate of having heard of malaria is 98.1% (257/262) and knowing mosquito biting as its main route of transmission is 86.6% (227/262) respectively. And 80.9% (212/262) of the respondents sought health advice or treatment for the illness, and similar percentage of them could be tested for malaria, mostly through RDTs. A great demand of long-lasting insecticidal nets (72.1%) was raised to fulfill the high shortage (61.8%, 162/262) in households, and of them there were 66 families having children under five years old.Conclusion Malaria burden is still high. Although public awareness of malaria prevention sounds well in this survey, the fact that the coverage of supplies and the use of preventive measures against malaria is low in households within the three communities. It is suggested that an advanced campaign should be carried out to scale up not only the knowledge on malaria but also the actual coverage and usage of malaria prevention measures, contributing to the achievements of planned objectives.
Managing diabetes mellitus with comorbidities in primary healthcare facilities: a qualitative study among physicians in Odisha, India
Authors: Pati Sandipana , Pati Sanghamitra , Akker Marjan van den , Schellevis F. (François) G. , Sahoo Krushna , Burgers Jako S.
Published: September 2020

AimTo explore the perceived barriers and facilitators in the management of the patients having diabetes with comorbidities by primary care physicians.MethodsA qualitative In-Depth Interview study was conducted among the primary care physicians at seventeen urban primary health care centres at Bhubaneswar city of Odisha, India. The digitally recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and translated into English. The data were analysed using content analysis.ResultsBarriers related to physicians, patients and health system were identified. Physicians felt lack of necessary knowledge and skills, communication skills and overburdening due to multiple responsibilities to be major barriers to quality care. Patients’ attitude and beliefs along with socio-economic status played an important role in treatment adherence and in the management of their disease conditions. Poor infrastructure, irregular medicine supply, and shortage of skilled allied health professionals were also found to be barriers to optimal care delivery, as was the lack of electronic medical records and personal treatment records.ConclusionComprehensive guidelines with on the job training for capacity building of the physicians and creation of multidisciplinary teams at primary care level for a more holistic approach towards management of diabetes with comorbidities could be the way forward to optimal delivery of care.
Analysis of Six Chloroplast Genomes Provides Insight into the Evolution of Chrysosplenium (Saxifragaceae)
Authors: Wu Zhihua , Liao Rui , Yang Tiange , Dong Xiang , Lan Deqing , Qin Rui , Liu Hong
Published: September 2020

Background: Chrysosplenium L. (Saxifragaceae) is a genus of plants widely distributed in Northern Hemisphere and usually found in moist, shaded valleys and mountain slopes. This genus is ideal for studying plant adaptation to low light conditions. Although some progress has been made in the systematics and biogeography of Chrysosplenium, its chloroplast genome evolution remains to be investigated. Results: To fill this gap, we sequenced the chloroplast genomes of six Chrysosplenium species and analyzed their genome structure, GC content, and nucleotide diversity. Moreover, we performed a phylogenetic analysis and calculated non-synonymous (Ka) /synonymous (Ks) substitution ratios using the combined protein-coding genes of 29 species within Saxifragales and two additional species as outgroups, as well as a pair-wise estimation for each gene within Chrysosplenium. Compared with the outgroups in Saxifragaceae, the six Chrysosplenium chloroplast genomes had lower GC contents; they also had conserved boundary regions and gene contents, as only the rpl32 gene was lost in four of the Chrysosplenium chloroplast genomes. Phylogenetic analyses suggested that the Chrysosplenium separated to two major clades (the opposite group and the alternate group). The selection pressure estimation (Ka/Ks ratios) of genes in the Chrysosplenium species showed that matK and ycf2 were subjected to positive selection.Conclusion: This study provides genetic resources for exploring the phylogeny of Chrysosplenium and sheds light on plant adaptation to low light conditions. The lower average GC content and the lacking gene of rpl32 indicated selective pressure in their unique habitats. Different from results previously reported, our selective pressure estimation suggested that the genes related to photosynthesis (such as ycf2) were under positive selection at sites in the coding region.
A systematic review of PTSD to the experience of Psychosis: Prevalence and associated factors
Authors: Buswell Georgina , Haime Zoë , Lloyd-Evans Brynmor , Billings Jo
Published: September 2020

Background: Psychosis can be a sufficiently traumatic event to lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Previous research has focussed on the trauma of first episode psychosis (FEP) and the only review to date of PTSD beyond the first episode period is potentially outdated.Methods: We searched electronic databases and reference lists using predetermined inclusion criteria to retrieve studies that reported prevalence rates and associated factors of psychosis-related PTSD across all stages of the course of psychosis. Studies were included if they measured PTSD specifically related to the experience of psychosis. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted version of the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Results were synthesised narratively.Results: Six papers met inclusion criteria. Prevalence estimates of psychosis-related PTSD varied from 14% to 47%. Studies either assessed first-episode samples or did not specify the number of episodes experienced. Depression was consistently associated with psychosis-related PTSD. Other potential associations included treatment-related factors, psychosis severity, childhood trauma, and individual psychosocial reactions to trauma.Conclusions: Psychosis-related PTSD is a common problem in people with psychosis. There is a lack of published research on this beyond first episode psychosis. Further research is needed on larger, more generalizable samples. Our results tentatively suggest that prevalence rates of psychosis-related PTSD have not reduced over the past decade despite ambitions to provide trauma-informed care.Prospero registration number: CRD42019138750
A Novel Automobile Antenna for Vehicles Communication of IoT Systems in 5G Network
Authors: Luo Wei , Chen Wuquan , Feng Yulu , Yang Yuqi
Published: September 2020

The Internet of vehicles (IoV) is an important part of mobile communication system with the development of Internet of things (IoT). A novel multiband automobile antenna is proposed, which can cover all frequency bands for the long-term evolution (LTE), the 5th generation wireless systems (5G), the wireless local area network (WLAN) and the dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) (from 690 MHz to 944 MHz and from 1.46 GHz to 6 GHz). The antenna is designed based on the monopole antenna, and the impedance matching performance of the antenna is improved by loading the toothed capacitor and the impedance matching disc. The simulation results show that the automobile antenna achieves good impedance matching in the working bandwidth and obtains omnidirectional radiation pattern in the horizontal direction. The electric field distribution of the antenna placed on the vehicle roof is simulated to evaluate the network performance of the antenna system in the urban environment. The transmission coefficient of the transceiver system using the automobile antenna is also analyzed based on the electromagnetic simulation results and statistical model. The blind area of mobile communication system is effectively covered with the automobile antenna, which could be used to connect the LTE cell and the IoV system.
Physiological and molecular characterization of active fungi in pesticides contaminated soils for degradation of glyphosate
Authors: Njoku Kelechi L. , Eludini Peter O. , Adesuyi Adeola A. , Ude Emea O. , Oyelami Ayodeji O.
Published: September 2020

Understanding the physiological and molecular characteristics of naturally occurring fungi in glyphosate pesticide contaminated environment is crucial to managing its contamination. The study was aimed at isolating and characterizing soil fungi for their physiological roles towards glyphosate degradation. Pure cultures of fungi were isolated from soil contaminated with glyphosate at farms in Lagos, Nigeria. The cultures were grown on minimal salt agar media amended with glyphosate. The best isolates exhibiting good tolerance to the glyphosate were characterized using molecular techniques. The BLAST search indicated that the fungi belong to four Aspergillus species (Aspergillus flavus strain JN-YG-3-5, Aspergillus niger strain APBSDSF96, Aspergillus fumigatus strain FJAT-31052 and Aspergillus flavus strain APBSWTPF130, Trichoderma gamsii and Penicillium simplicissimum. The biodegradation study of the glyphosate by the selected fungi species showed the presence of Aminomethylphosphonic Acid (AMPA) except for Aspergillus fumigatus strain FJAT-31052. Annotation analysis of the partial gene sequence shows that the strains possess protein coding gene clusters for glyphosate utilization and other physiological activities. The GhostKOALA output confirmed that CYP2W1 gene (Cytochrome P450, fungi type) was present in Aspergillus fumigatus strain FJAT-31052 which was absent in genome of other fungi. The physiological and molecular characteristics of Aspergillus fumigatus strain FJAT-31052 clearly show that this isolate is a useful organism for managing contamination by glyphosate pesticide.
Griseococcin(1) from Bovistella radicata (Mont.) Pat and antifungal activity
Authors: Ye Yong , Zeng Qinghua , Zeng Qingmei
Published: September 2020

BackgroundTo evaluate the antimicrobial and microbicidel activity of B. radicata fermentation broth, the broth was purified by DEAE-cellulose and sephadex LC-20 column. The compounds were submitted to spectral analyses (HPLC, FT-IR, 1D and 2D NMR etc.). ResultsThe purified compounds were identified as the Griseococcin(s) which were naphthoquinone derivatives, the Chemical formula and MW of Griseococcin(1) was determined as C37O10H43N and 661Da. only Griseococcin(1) has good antimicrobial activity among the Griseococcin(s). The zone of inhibition (ZOI), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) or minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Griseococcin(1) were used to investigate the antimicrobial activity. Antifungal activity of Griseococcin(1) was significant, especially for main pathogenic fungus Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, MFC/MIC of Griseococcin(1) was 1, while MFC/MIC of postive control was greater than 4, the fungicidal effect of Griseococcin(1) was better than that of positive control.ConclusionsIn this paper, the secondary metabolite compound Griseococcin(1) from B. radicata was purified. The purified compound can restrain main pathogens (T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes) leading to tinea pedis. The antifungal activity of Griseococcin(1) was similar to that of the positive control and the fungicidal effect of Griseococcin(1) was better than that of positive control, it might be suitable for pharmaceutical industries.
Dysphagia and Masticatory Performance as a Mediator of the Xerostomia to Quality of Life Relation in the Older Population
Authors: Lu Ting-Yu , Chen Jen-Hao , Du Je-Kan , Lin Ying-Chun , Ho Pei-Shan , Lee Chien-Hung , Hu Chih-yang , Huang Hsiao-Ling
Published: September 2020

Background: The impact of poor oral health in older adults affecting their quality of life is a public health problem. This study assessed the mediating effects of dental status, occlusal condition, dysphagia and masticatory performance on the association between xerostomia and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in the older population. Methods: Stratified cluster sampling method was used to recuit 1100 community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older from Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Community care centers were randomly selected based on their geographic classifications (urban, rural, and mountainous areas). Assessments of dental status and occlusal condition were performed by dentists. Information on demographics, physical function, xerostomia dysphagia and depression was collected using face-to-face interview. Masticatory performance was evaluated using color-changeable chewing gum. OHRQoL was measured using Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index. Hierarchical regression models were utilized to assess the relationship between OHRQoL and physical function, dental status and oral function in older adults. Path analysis was used to estimate direct and indirect pathways between xerostomia and OHRQoL.Results: Participants with xerostomia had a 0.17 OHRQoL reduction (p< .001) comparing to the non-xerostomia, and the direct effect was accounted for 85.0% of the total effect. The dysphagia and the poor masticatory performance were found to have a significant mediating effect on the association between xerostomia and OHRQoL (βs = 0.17 and −0.09, respectively, both p< .001; βs = 0.05 and −0.08, respectively, both p< .001) moreover, potential mediating influences of the number of functional teeth (βs = −0.11 and −0.44, respectively, both p < .001) and poor occlusal condition (βs = 0.09 and 0.12, respectively, both p < .05) on the relationship between xerostomia and masticatory performance were obervered.Conclusions: Dysphagia and poor masticatory performance may serve as a pathway of which xerostomia affects quality of life. Providing early oral function intervention may be a valuable and actionable target for older adults to maintain their quality of life. Our results further suggest that checkup and screening for oral dysfunction is essential to prevent or delay the onset of complications.
Specific shifts in the endocannabinoid system in hibernating brown bears
Authors: Boyer Christian , Cussonneau Laura , Brun Charlotte , Deval Christiane , de Barros Jean-Paul Pais , Chanon Stéphanie , Bernoud-Hubac Nathalie , Daira Patricia , Evans Alina L. , Arnemo Jon M. , Swenson Jon E. , Gauquelin-Koch Guillemette , Simon Chantal , Blanc Stéphane , Combaret Lydie , Bertile Fabrice , Lefai Etienne
Published: September 2020

In small hibernators, global downregulation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is involved in modulating neuronal signaling, feeding behavior, energy metabolism, and circannual rhythms, has been reported to possibly drive physiological adaptation to the hibernating state. In hibernating brown bears ( Ursus arctos ), we hypothesized that beyond an overall suppression of the ECS, seasonal shift in endocannabinoids compounds could be linked to bear’s peculiar features that include hibernation without arousal episodes and capacity to react to external disturbance. We explored circulating lipids in serum and the ECS in plasma and metabolically active tissues in free-ranging subadult Scandinavian brown bears when both active and hibernating. In winter bear serum, in addition to a 2-fold increase in total fatty acid concentration, we found significant changes in relative proportions of circulating fatty acids, such as a 2-fold increase in docosahexaenoic acid C22:6 n-3 and a decrease in arachidonic acid C20:4 n-6. In adipose and muscle tissues of hibernating bears, we found significant lower concentrations of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), a major ligand of cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2). Lower mRNA level for genes encoding CB1 and CB2 were also found in winter muscle and adipose tissue, respectively. The observed reduction in ECS tone may promote fatty acid mobilization from body fat stores, and favor carbohydrate metabolism in skeletal muscle of hibernating bears. Additionally, high circulating level of the endocannabinoid-like compound N-oleoylethanolamide (OEA) in winter could favor lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation in peripheral tissues. We also speculated on a role of OEA in the conservation of an anorexigenic signal and in the maintenance of torpor during hibernation, while sustaining the capacity of bears to sense stimuli from the environment.
Development and validation of a novel stem cell subtype for bladder cancer based on stem genomic profiling
Authors: Tang Chaozhi , Ma Jiakang , Liu Xiuli , Liu Zhengchun
Published: September 2020

Background: Bladder cancer (BLCA) is the fifth most common type of cancer worldwide, with high recurrence and progression rates. Although considerable progress has been made in the treatment of BLCA through accurate typing of molecular characteristics, little is known regarding the various genetic and epigenetic changes that have evolved in stem and progenitor cells. To address this issue, we have developed a novel stem cell typing method.Methods: Based on six published genomic datasets, we used 26 stem cell gene sets to classify each dataset. Unsupervised and supervised machine learning methods were used to perform the classification. Results: We classified BLCA into three subtypes—high stem cell enrichment (SCE_H), medium stem cell enrichment (SCE_M), and low stem cell enrichment (SCE_L)—based on multiple cross-platform datasets. The stability and reliability of the classification were verified. Compared with the other subtypes, SCE_H had the highest degree of cancer stem cell concentration, highest level of immune cell infiltration, and highest sensitivity not only to predicted anti-PD-1 immunosuppressive therapy but also to conventional chemotherapeutic agents such as cisplatin, sunitinib, and vinblastine; however, this group had the worst prognosis. Comparison of gene set enrichment analysis results for pathway enrichment of various subtypes reveal that the SCE_H subtype activates the important pathways regulating cancer occurrence, development, and even poor prognosis, including epithelial mesenchymal transition, hypoxia, angiogenesis, KRAS signal upregulation, interleukin 6-mediated JAK-STAT signaling pathway, and inflammatory response. Two identified pairs of transcription factors, GRHL2 and GATA6 and IRF5 and GATA3, possibly have opposite regulatory effects on SCE_H and SCE_L, respectively.Conclusions: The identification of BLCA subtypes based on cancer stem cell gene sets revealed the complex mechanism of carcinogenesis of BLCA and provides a new direction for the diagnosis and treatment of BLCA.
COVID-19: Famotidine, Histamine, Mast Cells, and Mechanisms
Authors: Malone Robert W. , Tisdall Philip , Fremont-Smith Philip , Liu Yongfeng , Huang Xi-Ping , White Kris M. , Miorin Lisa , Olmo Elena Moreno Del , Alon Assaf , Delaforge Elise , Hennecker Christopher D. , Wang Guanyu , Pottel Joshua , Smith Nora , Hall Julie M. , Shapiro Gideon , Mittermaier Anthony , Kruse Andrew C. , García-Sastre Adolfo , Roth Bryan L. , Glasspool-Malone Jill , Ricke Darrell O.
Published: September 2020

SARS-CoV-2 infection is required for COVID-19, but many signs and symptoms of COVID-19 differ from common acute viral diseases. Currently, there are no pre- or post-exposure prophylactic COVID-19 medical countermeasures. Clinical data suggest that famotidine may mitigate COVID-19 disease, but both mechanism of action and rationale for dose selection remain obscure. We explore several plausible avenues of activity including antiviral and host-mediated actions. We propose that the principal famotidine mechanism of action for COVID-19 involves on-target histamine receptor H2 activity, and that development of clinical COVID-19 involves dysfunctional mast cell activation and histamine release.
Application of compound material alleviates saline and alkaline stress in cotton leaves through regulation of the transcriptome
Authors: An Mengjie , Wang Xiaoli , Chang Doudou , Wang Shuai , Hong Dashuang , Fan Hua , Wang Kaiyong
Published: September 2020

Background: Soil salinization and alkalinization are the main factors that affect the agricultural productivity. Evaluating the persistence of the compound material applied in field soils is an important part of the regulation of the responses of cotton to saline and alkaline stresses. Result: To determine the molecular effects of compound material on the cotton’s responses to saline stress and alkaline stress, cotton was planted in the salinized soil (NaCl 8g kg -1 ) and alkalized soil (Na 2 CO 3 8g kg -1 ) after application of the compound material, and ion content, physiological characteristics, and transcription of new cotton leaves at flowering and boll-forming stage were analyzed. The results showed that compared with saline stress, alkaline stress increased the contents of Na + , K + , SOD, and MDA in leaves. The application of the compound material reduced the content of Na + but increased the K + /Na + ratio , the activities of SOD, POD, and CAT, and REC. Transcriptome analysis revealed that after the application of the compound material, the Na + /H + exchanger gene in cotton leaves was down-regulated, while the K + transporter, K + channel, and POD genes were up-regulated. Besides, the down-regulation of genes related to lignin synthesis in phenylalanine biosynthesis pathway had a close relationship with the ion content and physiological characteristics in leaves. The quantitative analysis with PCR proved the reliability of the results of RNA sequencing. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the compound material alleviated saline stress and alkaline stress on cotton leaves by regulating candidate genes in key biological pathways, which improves our understanding of the molecular mechanism of the compound material regulating the responses of cotton to saline stress and alkaline stress.
Effects of sarcopenia on short- and long-term outcomes in patients with gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms after radical gastrectomy: Results from a large, two-institution series.
Authors: Wang Jia-bin , Xue Zhen , Lu Jun , He Qing-liang , Zheng Zhi-fang , Xu Bin-bin , Xie Jian-wei , Li Ping , Xu Yu , Lin Jian-xian , Chen Qi-yue , Cao Long-long , Lin Mi , Tu Ru-hong , Huang Ze-ning , Lin Ju-li , Huang Chang-ming , Zheng Chao-Hui
Published: September 2020

Background: The relationship between sarcopenia and the prognoses of patients with gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms (g-NENs) is unclear. This study was designed to explore the effects of sarcopenia on short-term and long-term outcomes of patients with g-NENs after radical gastrectomy.Methods: This study retrospectively collected data from 138 patients with g-NENs after radical gastrectomy. The skeletal muscle index (SMI) diagnostic threshold for sarcopenia was determined using X-tile software. Cox regression analyses were performed to determine the independent risk factors for 3-year overall survival (OS) and 3-year recurrence-free survival (RFS).Results: In this study, 59 patients (42.8%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia. Among patients in the sarcopenia group and nonsarcopenia group, the incidences of total postoperative complications were 33.9% and 30.4%, incidences of serious postoperative complications were 0% and 3.7%, incidences of postoperative surgical complications were 13.6% and 15.2%, and incidences of postoperative systemic complications were 20.3% and 15.2%, respectively (all p>0.05). The 3-year OS and RFS rates were significantly worse in the sarcopenia group than in the nonsarcopenia group (OS: 42.37% vs 65.82%, p=0.004; RFS: 52.54% vs 68.35%, p=0.036). The multivariate analysis revealed a relation between sarcopenia and the long-term prognoses of patients with g-NENs. A stratified analysis based on the pathological type revealed that the Kaplan-Meier curve was only significantly different in patients with gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (gMANEC) (OS: 40.00% vs 71.79%, p=0.007; RFS: 51.43% vs 74.36%, p=0.026); furthermore, the multivariate analysis identified sarcopenia as an independent risk factor for patients with gMANEC (p<0.05).Conclusions: Sarcopenia is not related to the short-term prognoses of patients with g-NENs. Sarcopenia is an independent risk factor for patients with gMANEC after radical surgery.
Carfilzomib Induced Cardiotoxicity in a Multiple Myeloma Patient
Authors: Toro Arnold Mendez , Diaz-Brochero Candida , Acosta-Gutierrez Estivalis
Published: September 2020

Proteasome inhibitors such as carfilzomib are indicated in multiple myeloma patients showing relapse and/or refractoriness of clonal activity. However, this therapy has been associated with a significant incidence of cardiotoxicity, especially in patients with known cardiovascular risk factors. Here we report a case of a 60-year-old woman with multiple myeloma, who developed severe congestive heart failure with positive myocardial injury biomarkers together with impaired LVEF and GLS, after treatment with carfilzomib. Therefore, chemotherapeutic drug was discontinued and neurohormonal blocking and diuretic therapy was started resulting in amelioration of symptoms, without changes in LVEF but with significant GLS improvement. Although high-grade cardiotoxicity is relatively rare in patients with non previous cardiac risk factors, it was a predictable side effect of carfilzomib use. Recognition of this syndrome is critical to instauration of appropriate therapy and prevention of morbimortality
Ceramic bricks containing Ni ions from contaminated biomass used as an adsorbent
Authors: Simón Daiana , Quaranta Nancy , Gass Sebastián , Procaccini Raúl , Cristóbal Adrián
Published: September 2020

This article shows how pine sawdust residues can be used to adsorb nickel ions from synthetic solutions and then to produce porous bricks for civil construction using a mixture of natural clay and biomass containing the adsorbed metals. The adsorption tests were performed by mixing NiCl2 solutions with pine sawdust during a fixed stirring period of 24 h. The set was filtered and the filtrate was analysed. Highest efficiency adsorbate/adsorbent ratio was 1 mol L-1 of NiCl2 solution and 20 g L-1 of pine sawdust. This was the contaminated biomass sample used in the manufacture of the bricks. This paper analyses the properties of the bricks achieved and compares them with bricks without added biomass, porous bricks containing zinc and commercial bricks. The obtained values ​​of bulk density (apD), apparent specific weight (apsW), apparent porosity (apP), water absorption (H2OAbs), apparent volume (apV), weight loss on ignition (LOI), compressive strength (σstr), flexural modulus of rupture (MOR) and efficiency retention of metal in the brick (RE), demonstrate that the ceramic pieces obtained are optimal for construction.