bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel method for solving the impact of clay on concrete workability: dimensional design and mechanism analysis
Authors: Liu Xiao , Xu Qian , Ma Xiaoyu , Zheng Yunsheng , Lu Lei , Bai Xiabing
Published: April 2020

Clay often has severe detrimental impacts on cement-based materials. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the mechanism causing the deterioration to improve the service life of cement-based materials. Based on accurate dimensional analysis, a mechanism that influences clay is proposed: the intercalation of the side chains of superplasticizer molecules in the interlayer space of the clay. To lessen this harmful effect, a new clay-resistant admixture (CRA) possessing cationic groups of small molecular size was synthesized through a novel dimensional design. The length and width of the side chains of this superplasticizer molecule were 9.50–17.50 and 0.25–0.40 nm, respectively, with a radius of ~3.74 nm in solvent, which is larger than the interlayer spacing of montmorillonite (i.e. 1.09–2.14 nm). The longitudinal and latitudinal lengths of the CRA molecule were 0.468 and 9.456 nm, respectively, ensuring intercalation in the interlayer of montmorillonite. The increase in interlayer spacing of the clay was 0.364 nm following addition of polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PCE) plus CRA and 0.632 nm following addition of PCE, which suggests that the CRA plays the role of a ‘sacrificial agent’ that is preferentially intercalated into the interlayer space of clay to further prevent the side chains of the superplasticizer molecules from entering the interlayer. The aim of this study was to propose a suitable means of synthesizing a new CRA to address the impact of clay through dimensional design and mechanism analysis, which contributes to the theoretical study and technological improvement of cement-based materials.
Personal strategies to minimise effects of air pollution on respiratory health: advice for providers, patients and the public
Authors: Carlsten Christopher , Salvi Sundeep , Wong Gary W.K. , Chung Kian Fan
Published: April 2020

As global awareness of air pollution rises, so does the imperative to provide evidence-based recommendations for strategies to mitigate its impact. While public policy has a central role in reducing air pollution, exposure can also be reduced by personal choices. Qualified evidence supports limiting physical exertion outdoors on high air pollution days and near air pollution sources, reducing near-roadway exposure while commuting, utilising air quality alert systems to plan activities, and wearing facemasks in prescribed circumstances. Other strategies include avoiding cooking with solid fuels, ventilating and isolating cooking areas, and using portable air cleaners fitted with high-efficiency particulate air filters. We detail recommendations to assist providers and public health officials when advising patients and the public regarding personal-level strategies to mitigate risk imposed by air pollution, while recognising that well-designed prospective studies are urgently needed to better establish and validate interventions that benefit respiratory health in this context.
EpiMOLAS: an intuitive web-based framework for genome-wide DNA methylation analysis
Authors: Su Sheng-Yao , Lu I-Hsuan , Cheng Wen-Chih , Chung Wei-Chun , Chen Pao-Yang , Ho Jan-Ming , Chen Shu-Hwa , Lin Chung-Yen
Published: April 2020

Background

DNA methylation is a crucial epigenomic mechanism in various biological processes. Using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) technology, methylated cytosine sites can be revealed at the single nucleotide level. However, the WGBS data analysis process is usually complicated and challenging.

Results

To alleviate the associated difficulties, we integrated the WGBS data processing steps and downstream analysis into a two-phase approach. First, we set up the required tools in Galaxy and developed workflows to calculate the methylation level from raw WGBS data and generate a methylation status summary, themtable. This computation environment is wrapped into the Docker container imageDocMethyl, which allows users to rapidly deploy an executable environment without tedious software installation and library dependency problems. Next, themtablefiles were uploaded to the web serverEpiMOLAS_webto link with the gene annotation databases that enable rapid data retrieval and analyses.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, the EpiMOLAS framework, consisting ofDocMethylandEpiMOLAS_web, is the first approach to include containerization technology and a web-based system for WGBS data analysis from raw data processing to downstream analysis. EpiMOLAS will help users cope with their WGBS data and also conduct reproducible analyses of publicly available data, thereby gaining insights into the mechanisms underlying complex biological phenomenon. The Galaxy Docker imageDocMethylis available athttps://hub.docker.com/r/lsbnb/docmethyl/.

EpiMOLAS_webis publicly accessible athttp://symbiosis.iis.sinica.edu.tw/epimolas/.
High inter-observer reliability in standardized ultrasound measurements of subcutaneous adipose tissue in children aged three to six years
Authors: Kelso A. , Müller W. , Fürhapter-Rieger A. , Sengeis M. , Ahammer H. , Steinacker J. M.
Published: April 2020

Background

A procedure to measure subcutaneous adipose (SAT) using brightness-mode ultrasound has recently been standardized and applied to various groups of adults including underweight, overweight and obese adults. High reliability of this procedure was found in each of the examined groups. The purpose of this study was to determine inter-observer reliability of the standardized brightness-mode ultrasound measurement of uncompressed SAT in three to six-year-old children.

Methods

Three experienced observers independently captured the ultrasound images at the eight standardized measurement sites in each of the 20 children and evaluated their images using an interactive software that detects the SAT contour and automatically measures multiple thicknesses in each image; the mean of these represents SAT thickness at a given site. The children were aged 4.9 ± 1.0 years; their body mass index ranged from 13.6–17.7 kgm− 2. Sound speed was set to 1450 ms− 1for SAT.

Results

SAT thickness sums with fibrous structures included (DI) ranged from 25.7–86.4 mm, meanDIwas 48.1 ± 15.5 mm. ForDI, resulting from 160 measurements by each observer, the intra-class correlation coefficient was 0.998 (95% confidence interval 0.980–0.999), standard error of the estimate was 1.1 mm, and 95% limits of agreement were within ±2.1 mm. The median difference inDIwas 0.8 mm, i.e. about 1.9% of meanDI.

Conclusions

Inter-observer results in children are comparable to previously described high reliability in adults. This method, which provides a technical thickness measurement accuracy of about 0.1 to 0.2 mm, enables monitoring of subcutaneous adipose tissue in children with a similarly high reliability as was obtained in adults previously.

Trial registration

German Institute of Medical Documentation and Information, German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) ID:DRKS00010089; Date 24/02/2016.
Quantification of hand muscle volume and composition in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis
Authors: Friedberger Andreas , Figueiredo Camille , Grimm Alexandra , d’Oliveira Isabelle , Bäuerle Tobias , Rech Jürgen , Kleyer Arnd , Simon David , Uder Michael , Schett Georg , Engelke Klaus
Published: April 2020

Background

Psoriasis (Pso), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are inflammatory diseases. PsA and RA are characterized by bone and muscle loss. In RA, bone loss has been extensively characterized, but muscle loss has, to the best of our knowledge, not been quantified to date.

Methods

A random forest based segmentation method was used to analyze hand muscle volume in T1 weighted MRI images of 330 patients suffering from Pso, PsA or RA. In addition, fat volume was quantified using MRI Dixon sequences in a small subset (n = 32).

Results

Males had a higher relative muscle volume than females (14% for Pso, 11% for PsA, n.s. for RA). Between 40 and 80 years male Pso patients lost 13%, male PsA patients 16%, male RA patients 23% and female PsA patients 30% of their relative muscle volume. After adjustment for age, relative muscle volume in males RA patients was 16% and in female RA patients 9% lower than in Pso patients. In male RA patients relative muscle volume was 13% lower in than in male PsA patients. There was no difference in females. A significant negative correlation (R2 = 0.18) between relative intramuscular fat content relative hand muscle volume was observed.

Conclusion

These preliminary data showed that relative hand muscle volume significantly decreased with age in male and female patients with Pso, PsA and RA patients. Independent of age, relative hand muscle volume was significantly smaller in patients with RA compared to the patients with Pso and the difference was twice as large in males compared to females. Also in male but not in female RA patients relative hand muscle volume was significantly smaller than in PsA patients.
Investigation of the impact of the NICE guidelines regarding antibiotic prophylaxis during invasive dental procedures on the incidence of infective endocarditis in England: an electronic health records study
Authors: Quan T. Phuong , Muller-Pebody Berit , Fawcett Nicola , Young Bernadette C. , Minaji Mehdi , Sandoe Jonathan , Hopkins Susan , Crook Derrick , Peto Timothy , Johnson Alan P. , Walker A. Sarah
Published: April 2020

Background

Infective endocarditis is an uncommon but serious infection, where evidence for giving antibiotic prophylaxis before invasive dental procedures is inconclusive. In England, antibiotic prophylaxis was offered routinely to patients at risk of infective endocarditis until March 2008, when new guidelines aimed at reducing unnecessary antibiotic use were issued. We investigated whether changes in infective endocarditis incidence could be detected using electronic health records, assessing the impact of inclusion criteria/statistical model choice on inferences about the timing/type of any change.

Methods

Using national data from Hospital Episode Statistics covering 1998–2017, we modelled trends in infective endocarditis incidence using three different sets of inclusion criteria plus a range of regression models, identifying the most likely date for a change in trends if evidence for one existed. We also modelled trends in the proportions of different organism groups identified during infection episodes, using secondary diagnosis codes and data from national laboratory records. Lastly, we applied non-parametric local smoothing to visually inspect any changes in trend around the guideline change date.

Results

Infective endocarditis incidence increased markedly over the study (22.2–41.3 per million population in 1998 to 42.0–67.7 in 2017 depending on inclusion criteria). The most likely dates for a change in incidence trends ranged from September 2001 (uncertainty interval August 2000–May 2003) to May 2015 (March 1999–January 2016), depending on inclusion criteria and statistical model used. For the proportion of infective endocarditis cases associated with streptococci, the most likely change points ranged from October 2008 (March 2006–April 2010) to August 2015 (September 2013–November 2015), with those associated with oral streptococci decreasing in proportion after the change point. Smoothed trends showed no notable changes in trend around the guideline date.

Conclusions

Infective endocarditis incidence has increased rapidly in England, though we did not detect any change in trends directly following the updated guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis, either overall or in cases associated with oral streptococci. Estimates of when changes occurred were sensitive to inclusion criteria and statistical model choice, demonstrating the need for caution in interpreting single models when using large datasets. More research is needed to explore the factors behind this increase.
MiR-30a and miR-379 modulate retinoic acid pathway by targeting DNA methyltransferase 3B in oral cancer
Authors: Shiah Shine-Gwo , Hsiao Jenn-Ren , Chang Hsiao-Ju , Hsu Yuan-Ming , Wu Guan-Hsun , Peng Hsuan-Yu , Chou Sung-Tau , Kuo Ching-Chuan , Chang Jang-Yang
Published: April 2020

Background

Epigenetic silencing of retinoic acid (RA) signaling-related genes have been linked with the pathogenesis and clinical outcome in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) carcinogenesis. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the abnormal silencing of RA signaling-related genes in OSCC have not been well investigated.

Methods

Using combined analysis of genome-wide gene expression and methylation profile from 40 matched normal-tumor pairs of OSCC specimens, we found a set of retinoid signaling related genes are frequently hypermethylated and downregulated in OSCC patient samples, including alcohol dehydrogenase, iron containing 1 (ADHFE1) and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family, member A2 (ALDH1A2), which are the important rate-limiting enzymes in synthesis of RA. The expression of ADHFE1 and ALDH1A2 in OSCC patients was determine by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry. The binding sites of miR-30a and miR-379 with DNA methyltransferase 3B (DNMT3B) were predicted using a series of bioinformatic tools, and validated using dual luciferase assay and Western blot analyses. The functions of miR-30a, miR-379, and DNMT3B were accessed by growth and colony formation analyses using gain- and loss-of-function approaches. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) was performed to explore the molecular mechanisms by arecoline and 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) treatment.

Results

We demonstrated that deregulated miR-30a and miR-379 could represent a mechanism for the silencing of ADHFE1 and ALDH1A2 in OSCC through targeting DNMT3B. Ectopic expression of miR-30a and miR-379 could induce re-expression of methylation-silenced ADHFE1 and ALDH1A2, and lead to growth inhibition in oral cancer cells. Furthermore, the dysregulation of the miRNAs and DNMT-3B may result from exposure to tobacco smoking and betel quid chewing.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that tobacco smoking and betel quid chewing could repress miR-30a and miR-379, which upregulate the DNMT3B expression, in turn, lead to the hypermethylation of ADHFE1 and ALDH1A genes, consequently, promote the oncogenic activity. These findings highlight the potential use of retinoids in combination with epigenetic modifiers for the prevention or treatment of oral cancer.
Expedition to the missing link: Long noncoding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Yeh Chih-Fan , Chang Yu-Chen Eugene , Lu Cheng-Yuan , Hsuan Chin-Feng , Chang Wei-Tien , Yang Kai-Chien
Published: April 2020

With the advances in deep sequencing-based transcriptome profiling technology, it is now known that human genome is transcribed more pervasively than previously thought. Up to 90% of the human DNA is transcribed, and a large proportion of the human genome is transcribed as long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a heterogenous group of non-coding transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides. Emerging evidence suggests that lncRNAs are functional and contribute to the complex regulatory networks involved in cardiovascular development and diseases. In this article, we will review recent evidence on the roles of lncRNAs in the biological processes of cardiovascular development and disorders. The potential applications of lncRNAs as biomarkers and targets for therapeutics are also discussed.
The gut microbiota, environmental factors, and links to the development of food allergy
Authors: Lee Khui Hung , Song Yong , Wu Weidong , Yu Kan , Zhang Guicheng
Published: April 2020

Food allergy appears to have its roots in an insufficient exposure to a diverse range of environmental microbiota during early life. Microbial exposure ensures the colonization of the gastrointestinal tract with commensal microbes, which is necessary for the induction of a balanced and tolerogenic immune function. High-throughput sequencing technology has facilitated in-depth studies of the gut microbiota as well as bacterial-derived metabolites. Although the role of the microbiota in allergies is now widely studied, its importance for food allergy was only recently noted. Studies in human cohorts have shown that there is an association of dysbiosis and pathogenesis of food allergy, while studies from animal models have demonstrated the capacity of specific species in the gut microbiota to alter immune response, which may lead to the desensitization of food allergy. This article reviews the role of the gut microbiota in food allergy, and discusses the influence of environmental factors as well as prevention and management strategies relating to such regulatory mechanism.
Hypoxia-induced complement dysregulation is associated with microvascular impairments in mouse tracheal transplants
Authors: Khan Mohammad Afzal , Shamma Talal , Kazmi Shadab , Altuhami Abdullah , Ahmed Hala Abdalrahman , Assiri Abdullah Mohammed , Broering Dieter Clemens
Published: April 2020

Background

Complement Regulatory Proteins (CRPs), especially CD55 primarily negate complement factor 3-mediated injuries and maintain tissue homeostasis during complement cascade activation. Complement activation and regulation during alloimmune inflammation contribute to allograft injury and therefore we proposed to investigate a crucial pathological link between vascular expression of CD55, active-C3, T cell immunity and associated microvascular tissue injuries during allograft rejection.

Methods

Balb/c→C57BL/6 allografts were examined for microvascular deposition of CD55, C3d, T cells, and associated tissue microvascular impairments during rejection in mouse orthotopic tracheal transplantation.

Results

Our findings demonstrated that hypoxia-induced early activation of HIF-1α favors a cell-mediated inflammation (CD4+, CD8+, and associated proinflammatory cytokines, IL-2 and TNF-α), which proportionally triggers the downregulation of CRP-CD55, and thereby augments the uncontrolled release of active-C3, and Caspase-3 deposition on CD31+ graft vascular endothelial cells. These molecular changes are pathologically associated with microvascular deterioration (low tissue O2 and Blood flow) and subsequent airway epithelial injuries of rejecting allografts as compared to non-rejecting syngrafts.

Conclusion

Together, these findings establish a pathological correlation between complement dysregulation, T cell immunity, and microvascular associated injuries during alloimmune inflammation in transplantation.
Normalization of magnesium deficiency attenuated mechanical allodynia, depressive-like behaviors, and memory deficits associated with cyclophosphamide-induced cystitis by inhibiting TNF-α/NF-κB signaling in female rats
Authors: Chen Jia-Liang , Zhou Xin , Liu Bo-Long , Wei Xu-Hong , Ding Hong-Lu , Lin Zhi-Jun , Zhan Hai-Lun , Yang Fei , Li Wen-Biao , Xie Jun-Cong , Su Min-Zhi , Liu Xian-Guo , Zhou Xiang-Fu
Published: April 2020

Background

Bladder-related pain symptoms in patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) are often accompanied by depression and memory deficits. Magnesium deficiency contributes to neuroinflammation and is associated with pain, depression, and memory deficits. Neuroinflammation is involved in the mechanical allodynia of cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced cystitis. Magnesium-L-Threonate (L-TAMS) supplementation can attenuate neuroinflammation. This study aimed to determine whether and how L-TAMS influences mechanical allodynia and accompanying depressive symptoms and memory deficits in CYP-induced cystitis.

Methods

Injection of CYP (50 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, every 3 days for 3 doses) was used to establish a rat model of BPS/IC. L-TAMS was administered in drinking water (604 mg·kg−1·day−1). Mechanical allodynia in the lower abdomen was assessed with von Frey filaments using the up-down method. Forced swim test (FST) and sucrose preference test (SPT) were used to measure depressive-like behaviors. Novel object recognition test (NORT) was used to detect short-term memory function. Concentrations of Mg2+ in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were measured by calmagite chronometry. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining measured the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α/nuclear factor-κB (TNF-α/NF-κB), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor type 2B subunit (NR2B) of the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor in the L6–S1 spinal dorsal horn (SDH) and hippocampus.

Results

Free Mg2+ was reduced in the serum and CSF of the CYP-induced cystitis rats on days 8, 12, and 20 after the first CYP injection. Magnesium deficiency in the serum and CSF correlated with the mechanical withdrawal threshold, depressive-like behaviors, and short-term memory deficits (STMD). Oral application of L-TAMS prevented magnesium deficiency and attenuated mechanical allodynia (n = 14) and normalized depressive-like behaviors (n = 10) and STMD (n = 10). The upregulation of TNF-α/NF-κB signaling and IL-1β in the L6–S1 SDH or hippocampus was reversed by L-TAMS. The change in NR2B expression in the SDH and hippocampus in the cystitis model was normalized by L-TAMS.

Conclusions

Normalization of magnesium deficiency by L-TAMS attenuated mechanical allodynia, depressive-like behaviors, and STMD in the CYP-induced cystitis model via inhibition of TNF-α/NF-κВ signaling and normalization of NR2B expression. Our study provides evidence that L-TAMS may have therapeutic value for treating pain and comorbid depression or memory deficits in BPS/IC patients.
LipoDDx: a mobile application for identification of rare lipodystrophy syndromes
Authors: Araújo-Vilar David , Fernández-Pombo Antía , Rodríguez-Carnero Gemma , Martínez-Olmos Miguel Ángel , Cantón Ana , Villar-Taibo Rocío , Hermida-Ameijeiras Álvaro , Santamaría-Nieto Alicia , Díaz-Ortega Carmen , Martínez-Rey Carmen , Antela Antonio , Losada Elena , Muy-Pérez Andrés E. , González-Méndez Blanca , Sánchez-Iglesias Sofía
Published: April 2020

Background

Lipodystrophy syndromes are a group of disorders characterized by a loss of adipose tissue once other situations of nutritional deprivation or exacerbated catabolism have been ruled out. With the exception of the HIV-associated lipodystrophy, they have a very low prevalence, which together with their large phenotypic heterogeneity makes their identification difficult, even for endocrinologists and pediatricians. This leads to significant delays in diagnosis or even to misdiagnosis.

Our group has developed an algorithm that identifies the more than 40 rare lipodystrophy subtypes described to date. This algorithm has been implemented in a free mobile application, LipoDDx®. Our aim was to establish the effectiveness of LipoDDx®.

Forty clinical records of patients with a diagnosis of certainty of most lipodystrophy subtypes were analyzed, including subjects without lipodystrophy. The medical records, blinded for diagnosis, were evaluated by 13 physicians, 1 biochemist and 1 dentist. Each evaluator first gave his/her results based on his/her own criteria. Then, a second diagnosis was given using LipoDDx®. The results were analysed based on a score table according to the complexity of each case and the prevalence of the disease.

Results

LipoDDx® provides a user-friendly environment, based on usually dichotomous questions or choice of clinical signs from drop-down menus. The final result provided by this app for a particular case can be a low/high probability of suffering a particular lipodystrophy subtype. Without using LipoDDx® the success rate was 17 ± 20%, while with LipoDDx® the success rate was 79 ± 20% (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

LipoDDx® is a free app that enables the identification of subtypes of rare lipodystrophies, which in this small cohort has around 80% effectiveness, which will be of help to doctors who are not experts in this field. However, it will be necessary to analyze more cases in order to obtain a more accurate efficiency value.
Design, synthesis, in silico studies and biological evaluation of 5-((E)-4-((E)-(substituted aryl/alkyl)methyl)benzylidene)thiazolidine-2,4-dione derivatives
Authors: Kumar Harsh , Deep Aakash , Marwaha Rakesh Kumar
Published: April 2020

Background

Looking at the extensive biological potential of thiazolidine-2,4-dione (TZD) moiety, a new series of thiazolidine-2,4-dione analogues was synthesized. Different spectral techniques (1H-NMR, IR, MS etc.) were used to confirm the chemical structures of the synthesized analogues. These synthesized compounds were screened for their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential.

Results and discussion

The antimicrobial screening was carried out against selected strains of fungi and bacteria using serial tube dilution method. The antioxidant potential was assessed using stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging method. Further, the interaction between synthesized thiazolidine-2,4-dione compounds and DNA gyrase was explored using molecular docking studies. Various ADME parameters were also studied to evaluate the drug likeness of the synthesized compounds.

Conclusion

In antimicrobial evaluation, the compounds 4, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15 and 16 displayed promising activity against selected strains of microbes. Antioxidant evaluation found compound 6 having IC50 = 9.18 μg/mL to be the most potent compound in the series. The molecular docking study revealed compounds 4 (dock score = − 4.73) and 7 (dock score = − 4.61) with decent docking score, possess good interaction inside the ATP binding pocket of DNA gyrase and therefore can be used as lead structure for further optimizing into potent antimicrobial molecule.
Biotransformation of keratin waste to amino acids and active peptides based on cell-free catalysis
Authors: Peng Zheng , Mao Xinzhe , Zhang Juan , Du Guocheng , Chen Jian
Published: April 2020

Background

Keratin is the primary constituent of the vertebrate epidermis and epidermal appendages, as well as the main waste product generated during poultry processing from feathers, hair, scales, nails, etc. Keratin is generally hard, stubborn and difficult to hydrolyze; however, it is also inexpensive and contains more than 85% protein. Currently, tens of millions of tons of keratin waste are produced each year worldwide; however, no effective methods for the recovery of keratin waste have been reported thus far, making such research urgent. Keratinase has been reported to be useful for keratin waste recovery; however, nearly all keratinases are unable to hydrolyze keratin after they are detached from living cell systems. This may be due to low keratinase activity and lack of synergistic factors.

Results

Herein, the keratinase gene from Bacillus licheniformis BBE11-1 was successfully expressed in Bacillus subtilis WB600, allowing for improved activity of the recombinant keratinase KerZ1 to 45.14 KU/mL via promoter substitution and screening of the ribosome-binding sites. Further, real-time control of temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and feed strategy allowed the activity of KerZ1 to reach 426.60 KU/mL in a 15-L fermenter, accounting for a 3552-fold increase compared to the wild-type keratinase (120.1 U/mL). Most importantly, we proposed a method based on the synergistic action of keratinase KerZ1 and sodium sulfite, to hydrolyze feathers into amino acids. In specific, 100 g/L of feather waste can be successfully converted into 56.6% amino acids within 12 h, while supporting the production of dozens of bioactive peptides.

Conclusions

The activity of recombinant keratinase can be greatly enhanced via transcription and translational regulation in Bacillus subtilis. The synergistic action of keratinase and sulfite can rapidly degrade feather waste and produce amino acids and polypeptides.
B cells induced by Schistosoma japonicum infection display diverse regulatory phenotypes and modulate CD4+ T cell response
Authors: Xiao Junli , Guan Fei , Sun Li , Zhang Yijie , Zhang Xiaoyan , Lu Shengjun , Liu Wenqi
Published: April 2020

Background

The increased activity of regulatory B cells (Breg) is known to be involved in immunosuppression during helminth infection, which is characterized by inducing IL-10-producing Breg cells. However, the current knowledge of B cell subsets differentiation and IL-10-independent immunoregulatory mechanisms of B cells in schistosomiasis is insufficient.

Methods

BALB/c mice were percutaneously infected with cercariae for investigating the profile of B cell subsets duringSchistosoma japonicuminfection. B cells isolated from the spleen or peritoneal cavity were analyzed for the regulatory phenotype after stimulation with soluble egg antigens (SEA)in vitro. CD4+T cells were then cocultured with B cells pretreated with or without anti-PD-L1 antibody for investigating the role of B cells from infected mice on regulating CD4+T cells. Furthermore, thein vivoadministration of anti-PD-L1 antibody was conducted to investigate the role of PD-L1 in regulating host immunity during infection.

Results

The percentages of peritoneal and splenic B-1a cells, as well as marginal zone B (MZB) cells were decreased at eight and twelve weeks after infection compared to those from uninfected mice. In splenic B cells, TGF-β expression was increased at eight weeks but declined at twelve weeks of infection, and PD-L1 expression was elevated at both eight and twelve weeks of infection. In addition, SEA stimulationin vitrosignificantly promoted the expression of IL-10 in peritoneal B cells and CD5 in splenic B cells, and the SEA-stimulated splenic and peritoneal B cells preferentially expressed PD-L1 and TGF-β. The splenic B cells from infected mice were able to suppress the function of Th1 and Th2 cellsin vitrobut to expand the expression of Tfh transcription factor Bcl6, which was further enhanced by blocking PD-L1 of B cells before co-cultivation. Moreover, Th2 response and Bcl6 expression in CD4+T cells were also increasedin vivoby blocking PD-L1 after infection, although the hepatic pathology was slightly influenced.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed thatS. japonicuminfection modulates the differentiation of B cell subsets that have the capability to affect the CD4+T cell response. This study contributes to a better understanding of B cells immune response during schistosomiasis.
Air ambulance outcome measures using Institutes of Medicine and Donabedian quality frameworks: protocol for a systematic scoping review
Authors: Edwards Kristin H. , FitzGerald Gerard , Franklin Richard C. , Edwards Mark Terrell
Published: April 2020

Background

Dedicated air ambulance services provide a vital link for critically ill and injured patients to higher levels of care. The recent developments of pre-hospital and retrieval medicine create an opportunity for air ambulance providers and policy-makers to utilize a dashboard of quality performance measures to assess service performance. The objective of this scoping systematic review will be to identify and evaluate the range of air ambulance outcome measures reported in the literature and help to construct a quality dashboard based on a healthcare quality framework.

Methods

We will search PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (from January 2001 onwards). Complementary searches will be conducted in selected relevant journals. We will include systematic reviews and observational studies (cohort, cross-sectional, interrupted time series) in critically ill or injured patients published in English and focusing on air ambulance delivery and quality measures. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. The study methodological quality (or bias) will be appraised using appropriate tools. Analysis of the characteristics associated with outcome measure will be mapped and described according to the proposed healthcare quality framework.

Discussion

This review will contribute to the development of an air ambulance quality dashboard designed to combine multiple quality frameworks. Our findings will provide a basis for helping decision-making in health planning and policy.

Systematic review registration

PROSPEROCRD42019144652
On the Hurwitz zeta function with an application to the beta-exponential distribution
Authors: Arbel Julyan , Marchal Olivier , Nipoti Bernardo
Published: April 2020

We prove a monotonicity property of the Hurwitz zeta function which, in turn, translates into a chain of inequalities for polygamma functions of different orders. We provide a probabilistic interpretation of our result by exploiting a connection between Hurwitz zeta function and the cumulants of the beta-exponential distribution.
Global and blow-up solutions for a nonlinear reaction diffusion equation with Robin boundary conditions
Authors: Tian Huimin , Zhang Lingling
Published: April 2020

In the paper, we investigate global and blow-up solutions for a class of nonlinear reaction diffusion equations with Robin boundary conditions. By using auxiliary functions and a first-order differential inequality technique, we establish conditions on the data to prove the existence of global solution. Moreover, based on maximum principles, we obtain a criterion that guarantees the occurrence of the blow-up. When blow-up occurs, we discuss an upper bound and a lower bound on blow-up time. At last, we apply two examples to illustrate our main results.
Retraction Note to: Solutions of the Dirichlet–Schrödinger problems with continuous data admitting arbitrary growth property in the boundary
Authors: Wang Jianjie , Pu Jun , Zama Ahmed
Published: April 2020

The Editors-in-Chief have retracted this article [1] because it significantly overlaps with an article by different authors [2] that was simultaneously under consideration at a different journal. The article also shows evidence of authorship manipulation and peer review manipulation. In addition, the identity of the third author could not be verified: the University of Mosul has confirmed that Ahmed Zama has not been affiliated with their institution. The authors have not responded to any correspondence regarding this retraction.
Calpain proteolytic systems counteract endothelial cell adaptation to inflammatory environments
Authors: Miyazaki Takuro , Akasu Risako , Miyazaki Akira
Published: April 2020

Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) make up the innermost surface of arteries, veins, and capillaries, separating the remaining layers of the vessel wall from circulating blood. Under non-inflammatory conditions, ECs are quiescent and form a robust barrier structure; however, exposure to inflammatory stimuli induces changes in the expression of EC proteins that control transcellular permeability and facilitate angiogenic tube formation. Increasing evidence suggests that dysfunction in intracellular proteolytic systems disturbs EC adaptation to the inflammatory environment, leading to vascular disorders such as atherosclerosis and pathological angiogenesis. Recent work has highlighted the contribution of the calpain–calpastatin stress-responsive intracellular proteolytic system to adaptation failure in ECs. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of calpain–calpastatin-mediated physiologic and pathogenic regulation in ECs and discuss the molecular basis by which disruption of this system perturbs EC adaptation to the inflammatory environment.
State of the art in selection of variables and functional forms in multivariable analysis—outstanding issues
Authors:   for TG2 of the STRATOS initiative, Sauerbrei Willi , Perperoglou Aris , Schmid Matthias , Abrahamowicz Michal , Becher Heiko , Binder Harald , Dunkler Daniela , Harrell Frank E. , Royston Patrick , Heinze Georg
Published: April 2020

Background

How to select variables and identify functional forms for continuous variables is a key concern when creating a multivariable model. Ad hoc ‘traditional’ approaches to variable selection have been in use for at least 50 years. Similarly, methods for determining functional forms for continuous variables were first suggested many years ago. More recently, many alternative approaches to address these two challenges have been proposed, but knowledge of their properties and meaningful comparisons between them are scarce. To define a state of the art and to provide evidence-supported guidance to researchers who have only a basic level of statistical knowledge, many outstanding issues in multivariable modelling remain. Our main aims are to identify and illustrate such gaps in the literature and present them at a moderate technical level to the wide community of practitioners, researchers and students of statistics.

Methods

We briefly discuss general issues in building descriptive regression models, strategies for variable selection, different ways of choosing functional forms for continuous variables and methods for combining the selection of variables and functions. We discuss two examples, taken from the medical literature, to illustrate problems in the practice of modelling.

Results

Our overview revealed that there is not yet enough evidence on which to base recommendations for the selection of variables and functional forms in multivariable analysis. Such evidence may come from comparisons between alternative methods. In particular, we highlight seven important topics that require further investigation and make suggestions for the direction of further research.

Conclusions

Selection of variables and of functional forms are important topics in multivariable analysis. To define a state of the art and to provide evidence-supported guidance to researchers who have only a basic level of statistical knowledge, further comparative research is required.
Different strategies in the management of thalamic space-occupying lesions
Authors: Fayed Ahmed Abdel Aziz , Abdel Aziz Osama , Eshra Mohamed
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Thalamic space-occupying lesions (SOL) are considered challenging for microsurgical removal. Unfortunately, the pathological features of lesions occurring in the thalamic region are different with a wide variation in clinical behavior and outcome. Although microsurgery is still the gold standard in the management of these lesions through different approaches, questions remain whether surgery is feasible and safe in these patients and what are the alternatives? It is well known that stereotactic techniques may be favorable especially in cystic, small, multiple lesions and in combination with adjuvant therapy. Transventricular endoscopic approach is also an alternative technique to combine tumor biopsy and treatment of hydrocephalus.

Aim of the study

The identification of the different procedures for the management of thalamic SOL in respect to the age of the patient, the clinical condition, and the site of the lesion as well as its extent and pathology.

Patients and methods

This prospective study included 35 patients having thalamic lesions with a mean age of 27 years old who were treated with different approaches including microsurgical, stereotactic, and endoscopic approaches. The clinical outcome was assessed as the same, improved, deteriorated, or died in comparison to the initial clinical status, while the radiological control was measured as no gross residual, residual < 10% and residual > 10%. Chi-square test was used to test the association between two categorical variables.

Results

Thirty-five patients were included in this study, 20 were males and 15 were females. Eight cases were children, and 27 cases were adults. The most common clinical presentation was contralateral hemiparesis. The most common pathology was pilocytic astrocytoma. Radiological studies showed that the total thalamic type was the most common topographic variant and that 10 cases had hydrocephalus treated with CSF diversion procedures. For the definitive lesion, 2 cases underwent endoscopic biopsy and cystoventriculostomy and 18 cases had stereotactic technique in the form of biopsy, aspiration, and ommaya reservoir application, while 15 cases had microsurgery through different approaches with stereotactic technique preceding surgery in 2 of them.

Conclusion

The main factors involved in choosing the appropriate approach included nature of the lesion (solid or cystic, multiplicity), suspected pathological type, and diffusion tensor imaging. Abscesses are best treated with stereotaxy, while non-neoplastic cystic lesions (other than abscesses) related to the ventricles are best treated with endoscopy. For the remaining pathologies, maximum surgical removal is the best management. Best lesion control was provided by microsurgery.

Trial registration

ISRCTN 1380 registered 6/11/2018
Controversies in Rectal Cancer Treatment and Management
Authors: Sun Weijing , Al-Rajabi Raed , Perez Rodrigo O. , Abbasi Saquib , Ash Ryan , Habr-Gama Angelita
Published: April 2020

Incorporation of new treatment modalities has significantly increased the complexity of the treatment and management of rectal cancer, including perioperative therapy for local advanced disease and organ preservation for those with response to the preoperative treatment. This review may help practitioners better understand the rationale and selection.
Gamma Gap: A Point-of-Care Test That Correlates With Disease Burden and Treatment Response in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Dupuis Megan M. , Paul Barry , Loitsch Gavin , Mathews Parker , Feinberg Daniel , Barak Ian , Li Zhiguo , Tuchman Sascha A. , Kang Yubin
Published: April 2020

PURPOSE:

We performed a retrospective chart review on 393 patients with multiple myeloma (MM) to determine the utility of the gamma gap (GG).

METHODS:

We calculated the difference between a patient’s total serum protein and albumin as a point-of-care test for assessing disease status in MM.

RESULTS:

GG is highly correlated with the level of M-spike, and the change in GG correlates with myeloma treatment response. In addition, fitted linear models were established that allow for the calculation of M-protein level from the GG within hours from blood draw.

CONCLUSION:

Our study has important implications in the care of MM, particularly in countries/areas with limited resources.
Essential Role of Patient Blood Management in a Pandemic: A Call for Action
Authors: Shander Aryeh , Goobie Susan M. , Warner Matthew A. , Aapro Matti , Bisbe Elvira , Perez-Calatayud Angel A. , Callum Jeannie , Cushing Melissa M. , Dyer Wayne B. , Erhard Jochen , Faraoni David , Farmer Shannon , Fedorova Tatyana , Frank Steven M. , Froessler Bernd , Gombotz Hans , Gross Irwin , Guinn Nicole R. , Haas Thorsten , Hamdorf Jeffrey , Isbister James P. , Javidroozi Mazyar , Ji Hongwen , Kim Young-Woo , Kor Daryl J. , Kurz Johann , Lasocki Sigismond , Leahy Michael F. , Lee Cheuk-Kwong , Lee Jeong Jae , Louw Vernon , Meier Jens , Mezzacasa Anna , Munoz Manuel , Ozawa Sherri , Pavesi Marco , Shander Nina , Spahn Donat R. , Spiess Bruce D. , Thomson Jackie , Trentino Kevin , Zenger Christoph , Hofmann Axel ,   on behalf of the International Foundation of Patient Blood Management (IFPBM) and Society for the Advancement of Blood Management (SABM) Work Group
Published: April 2020

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a pandemic. Global health care now faces unprecedented challenges with widespread and rapid human-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and high morbidity and mortality with COVID-19 worldwide. Across the world, medical care is hampered by a critical shortage of not only hand sanitizers, personal protective equipment, ventilators, and hospital beds, but also impediments to the blood supply. Blood donation centers in many areas around the globe have mostly closed. Donors, practicing social distancing, some either with illness or undergoing self-quarantine, are quickly diminishing. Drastic public health initiatives have focused on containment and “flattening the curve” while invaluable resources are being depleted. In some countries, the point has been reached at which the demand for such resources, including donor blood, outstrips the supply. Questions as to the safety of blood persist. Although it does not appear very likely that the virus can be transmitted through allogeneic blood transfusion, this still remains to be fully determined. As options dwindle, we must enact regional and national shortage plans worldwide and more vitally disseminate the knowledge of and immediately implement patient blood management (PBM). PBM is an evidence-based bundle of care to optimize medical and surgical patient outcomes by clinically managing and preserving a patient’s own blood. This multinational and diverse group of authors issue this “Call to Action” underscoring “The Essential Role of Patient Blood Management in the Management of Pandemics” and urging all stakeholders and providers to implement the practical and commonsense principles of PBM and its multiprofessional and multimodality approaches.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: Effects on Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Bong Choon-Looi , Brasher Christopher , Chikumba Edson , McDougall Robert , Mellin-Olsen Jannicke , Enright Angela
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is spreading rapidly around the world with devastating consequences on patients, health care workers, health systems, and economies. As it reaches low- and middle-income countries, its effects could be even more dire, because it will be difficult for them to respond aggressively to the pandemic. There is a great shortage of all health care providers, who will be at risk due to a lack of personal protection equipment. Social distancing will be almost impossible. The necessary resources to treat patients will be in short supply. The end result could be a catastrophic loss of life. A global effort will be required to support faltering economies and health care systems.
COVID-19: Role of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities in This Global Pandemic
Authors: Rajan Niraja , Joshi Girish P.
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has now become a global pandemic. This has led the United States to declare a national emergency and resulted in a ban on all elective diagnostic and therapeutic procedures as well as elective surgery in inpatient and outpatient settings. Ambulatory surgery facilities (ASF) that perform only elective procedures are thus likely to be closed. However, these facilities may be able to assist acute care hospitals as essential (urgent and emergent) surgeries and diagnostic and therapeutic procedures will still need to be performed. The aim of this article is to explore the potential contribution of ASFs in the current health care crisis. It is important to understand that COVID-19–related information is continually evolving, and thus, the discussion provided here is subject to change.
Preoperative Correction of Anemia to Allow a 3000 ml Blood Loss Without Transfusion in a Jehovah’s Witness Presenting for Explantation of an Infected Hip Joint Prosthesis: A Case Report
Authors: Perez-Chrzanowska Hanna , Cruz Pardos Ana , Burgueño Gonzalez Maria Dolores , Gomez Barrena Enrique
Published: April 2020

A 70-year-old Jehovah’s Witness was treated with iron carboxymaltose intravenously, recombinant human erythropoietin alpha subcutaneously, and vitamin B12 and folate orally for 9 weeks to raise hemoglobin (Hb) from 10.8 to 17.0 g/dL before explantation of an infected hip joint prosthesis. The target Hb was calculated from the following formula: Hbtarget = Hbfinal/(1 − ABL/EBV), where Hbtarget= Hb to achieve before surgery, Hbfinal = lowest Hb patient could tolerate taking into consideration his comorbidities (7 g/dL), ABL = volume of blood the surgeon estimated the patient would lose intra- and postoperatively (3000 mL), and EBV = estimated blood volume (75 mL/kg for an adult man). Spinal anesthesia was provided with a single shot hyperbaric bupivacaine and fentanyl. Acute hypervolemic hemodilution was achieved with lactated Ringer’s solution and hydroxyethyl starch. To further minimize blood loss, controlled hypotension to a mean blood pressure of 55 mm Hg was achieved with a propofol infusion and tranexamic acid was administered. Surgical blood loss was estimated to be 2500 mL. Hb at the end of surgery was 13.3 g/dL; on postoperative day 5, 11.7 g/L. No blood products were utilized.