bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility and Acceptability of Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Bladder Storage Symptoms Among People with Multiple Sclerosis.
Authors: Dandan Hawra , Galvin Rose , Robinson Katie , McClurg Doreen , Coote Susan
Published: June 2021

Background: Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction is an abnormality in the presence of underlying neurologic disease. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that storage phase symptoms are the predominant symptoms among people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) is a non-invasive treatment for bladder storage symptoms; however, the potential efficacy of stimulation among PwMS is based on a small number of studies with the absence of high-quality evidence. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of TTNS in PwMS using an affordable transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit.Methods: A total of 23 participants with MS enrolled in the study. The primary outcomes included recruitment/retention rate, completion of the outcomes and the intervention, adherence to the protocol, adverse events, and acceptability of the intervention. The primary outcomes were assessed using diaries and satisfaction questionnaire. The secondary outcomes included changes in urinary symptoms and quality of life assessed using a set of validated outcome measures including 3- day bladder diary, PPIUS, ICIQ-OAB, and KHQ at baseline and post-intervention. Results: 20 participants completed the study. Three participants (13.04%) withdrew. All 20 participants completed the 6-week intervention and all the outcome measures (100%), with no reported adverse events. Participants were satisfied and found the unit acceptable. 3-day bladder diary showed changes in urinary frequency from a daily median of 10 times to 8 times and daily median urgency changed from 6 times at baseline to 2 times post-intervention. PPIUS showed changes in daily median sever urgency from 3 points (IQR=4) to 1 point (IQR=1) post-intervention. ICIQ-OAB total scores changed from 8 points (IQR=2.25) to 4 points (IQR=2.5) post-intervention. Median and mean scores of KHQ showed a clinical meaningful change of QoL in part-two and part-three of the questionnaire. Conclusions: TTNS is feasible, safe, and acceptable for PwMS. Changes of urinary symptoms scores and QoL post-intervention suggested improvements. Future implications need to consider the treatment protocol including frequency of treatment sessions, duration of treatment, and the electrical stimulation parameters as well as the outcome measures followed in the current study for the implementation of the future pilot RCT.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04528784). Registered 27 August 2020, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/LoginUser?ts=1&cx=-jg9qo4
Pulmonary Nodular Lymphoid Hyperplasia in a 53-year-old Man With Malignant Sign: a Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Yang Zhen , Wei Lianshuang , Li Xu , Liu Xin
Published: June 2021

Background: Pulmonary nodular lymphoid hyperplasia (PNLH) is a rare benign illness. Due to atypical clinical and radiographic presentations, diagnosis largely depends on postoperative pathological examination. Thus, preoperative misdiagnosis is often occurred. Case presentation: We present a case of asymptomatic PNLH that was seen as ground-glass opacity (GGO) on computed tomography (CT). After 3-year observation, the diagnosis tends to adenocarcinoma owing to increasing density of the node and vessel convergence sign, which were signs of malignancy. Video-assisted segmentectomy (S10) was carried out. Histopathologic examination of postoperative specimen showed follicular lymphoid hyperplasia with interfollicular lymphoplasmacytosis, consistent with PNLH. The follow-up chest CT images showed no recurrence or metastasis.Conclusion: Although it is a benign disease, PNLH can exhibit malignant signs in the imaging examinations, which could lead to misdiagnosis. This reminds us of the uncertainty between imaging findings and diagnosis. The diagnosis depends on postoperative pathological examination. Surgical resection is not only diagnostic but also curative.
Health-related Quality of Life and Insulin Resistance: a Longitudinal Study
Authors: Nijole Kazukauskiene , Aurelija Podlipskyte , Giedrius Varoneckas , Narseta Mickuviene
Published: July 2021

The aim of the study was to investigate insulin resistance (IR) in association with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among citizens of Palanga in a ten years follow-up. A randomized epidemiological study was performed out for 835 subjects. All study participants were evaluated according to for socio-demographic characteristics, behavioral factors, HRQoL and self-perceived health using questionnaires. Fasting blood samples were draw from all participants and biochemical tests were performed for the glucose, insulin. IR was evaluated by the homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR). In subjects with IR, after adjusting with various factors, logistic regression analysis showed, that within 10 years, a significantly higher chance of deteriorating HRQoL in the areas of: physical functioning (odss ratio [OR] = 1.15, p < 0.001), emotional role limitations (OR = 1.07, p = 0.034), social functioning (OR = 1.26, p = 0.004), pain (OR = 1.09, p = 0.005) and general health perception (OR = 1.07, p = 0.022). People with IR have a worse HRQoL and as they age, they are significantly more likely to have a deterioration in their HRQoL compared to people without IR in the areas of physical functioning, emotional role limitations, social functioning, pain and general health perception.
Simultaneous Detection of Velogenic Genotype XIII 2.2 Avian Avulavirus Type 1 (AAvV-1) From Spot-billed Pelican and Backyard Chicken: Implications to the Viral Maintenance and Spread
Authors: Balam Deepthi , Ratnamma D , Isloor Shrikrishna , BM Veeregowda , Himaja M
Published: June 2021

The present study demonstrates simultaneous isolation of genetically similar velogenic Avian Avula virus-1 from an apparently healthy spot- billed pelican and a naturally infected backyard chicken in the adjacent vicinity. A total of fourty eight cloacal swab samples from migratory birds (Painted storks, n=32 and Spot billed pelicans, n=16) at the Telineelapuram bird sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh, India and tissue samples of dead backyard chicken were collected. Two isolates were recovered, one each from a spot billed pelican (MIG-9) and a dead chicken (SKLM-1). The isolates were confirmed as velogenic based on mean death time, intra cerebral pathogenicity index and the putative fusion protein cleavage site (113R-R-K-R-F117). Phylogenetic analysis based on full- length fusion and attachment (HN) proteins classified the isolates into genotype XIII, sub- genotype 2.2. Sequence analysis revealed that the pelican and chicken isolates were 100% identical. The study isolates demonstrated multiple amino acid substitutions at several critical domains of F and HN proteins when compared with the current vaccine strains. Pathogenic and transmission potential of the AAvV-1 isolates was evaluated in three- week old chicken and the isolates proved to be highly virulent to chicken. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first evidence for the role of spot-billed pelicans in the maintenance of virulent AAvV-1 and its transmission to chicken. This study further highlights the role of wild birds in AAvV-1 transmission and the need for enhanced biosecurity in commercial poultry operations.
Halogen Free Flame-Retardant Glass Fiber Reinforced PA 66 / PPO Alloys
Authors: Zhang Zhenya , Cai Kunpeng , Guo Yaxin , Liu Xiaohua , He Suqin , Liu Hao , Huang Miaoming , Yang Mingcheng , Liu Wentao
Published: June 2021

Halogen-free flame retardants are ideal plastic additives that meet carbon neutral requirements. In this work, halogen free flame retardant with glass fiber reinforced PA66/PPO composites were prepared by using coated red phosphorus (FRM-150B) and phosphorus-silicon flame retardant (WR6002). The mechanical properties, heat resistance, friction and wear properties and flame retardancy were carried out to evaluate the performances of composites using as structural parts that require heat resistance, dimensional stability and accuracy. It was found that the friction coefficient and wear volume of the composites were improved with the contents of glass fiber increased, as a result, PA66/PPO composites was obtained with excellent comprehensive performance when the content of compatilizer is 7%, the glass fiber was 30%, the content of FRM is 8% and the phosphorous-silicon flame retardant is 16%. The flame retardant effect of FRM-150B and WR6002 in PA66/PPO was presented in the condensed phase, the results showed that the composite material with 16% WR6002 forms a carbon layer with excellent thermal stability. On the other hand, the mechanical properties of composites were hardly affected, has important prospects in automotive components and household appliances
LCZ696 Attenuates ROS/NLRP3 Mediated Pyroptosis in Trastuzumab-induced H9C2 Cell Model Via Ameliorating Sirt3 Expression
Authors: ZANG Yanxiang , BAI Nan , LOU Qi , LIU Guangzhong , WANG Hong , DUAN Yuchen , LI Jianqiang , LI Weimin
Published: June 2021

Trastuzumab-induced cardiomyopathy have been a kind of clinical crucial problems in the field of cardio-oncology. LCZ696, clinically named sacubitril/valsartan, was administered to treat the patients with heart failure, so that it may be a substantial prevention to attenuate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. We firstly confirmed that LCZ696 and trastuzumab can affect the content of Sirt3 and NLRP3 in H9C2 cell, which confirmed the concentration of LCZ696 (10μM) and trastuzumab (100nM). Then H9C2 cells were allocated into 3 groups: (1) Con group; (2) TRA group; (3) TRA+LCZ696 group. We investigated the change of mRNA expression and protein synthesis of cultured H9c2 cardiocardiomyocytes on exposure to trastuzumab alone or plus LCZ696. Meanwhile, it turns out that LCZ696 can ameliorate the mRNA expression and content of Sirt3, inhibit the level of ROS, NLRP3, ACS, Caspase-1 and IL-1β in trastuzumab-induced H9C2 cell model. In summary, LCZ696 reduces the oxidative stress caused by ROS and NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis by protecting the activity of Sirt3 in H9C2 cells.
Oxidative Stress and Motion Sickness during Offshore Sailing
Authors: Giacon Tommaso Antonio , Bosco Gerardo , Vezzoli Alessandra , Dellanoce Cinzia , Cialoni Danilo , Paganini Matteo , Mrakic-Sposta Simona
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Offshore Ocean Sailing is a highly demanding activity in which subjects are exposed to psychophysical stressors for a long time. To better define the physiological adaptations, we investigated the stress response of subjects exposed to 3-days long ocean navigation with disruption of circadian rhythms.Methods: 6 male subjects were involved in the study and provided urine and saliva samples before setting sail, during a single day of inshore sailing, during 3-days long ocean navigation, and at the arrival, to measure oxidative stress, cortisol, nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) and metabolic response. Motion Sickness questionnaires were also administered.Results: The crew suffered a mean weight loss of 1.58 Kg. After the long navigation, a significant increase in ROS production and decreased antioxidant capacity and uric acid levels were observed. Lipid peroxidation, NOx, ketones, creatinine, and neopterin levels were also increased. A significant increase in cortisol levels was recorded, but no correlation was found with motion sickness questionnaires that were instead correlated with the rise of NOx.Conclusions: physical and psychological stress response derived from offshore sailing resulted in increased oxidative stress, nitric oxide metabolites, and cortisol levels, unbalanced redox status, transient renal function impairment, and ketosis. A direct correlation between motion sickness symptoms evaluated through questionnaires and NOx levels was also found.
A Fast Engineering Method for Estimating Iron Losses in Induction Type Motor Spindles Based on Equivalent Magnetic Circuit
Authors: Lü Lang , Xiong Wanli , Hu Can
Published: June 2021

The iron losses in the motor of motorized spindles have a significant effect on the heat generation, working efficiency, and speed-torque characteristics of motorized spindles as well as on their thermal deformation and machining accuracy. The existing finite element and analytical methods based on Maxwell’s equations are too complicated to be suitable for engineering designers. A fast engineering method for estimating iron losses in the spindle motor is presented based on equivalent magnetic circuit (EMC) where the problem of solving a complex electromagnetic field inside the spindle motor is simplified into a simple magnetic circuit calculation by the assumption that the magnetic flux density distribution of any cross section along the magnetic flux direction in the spindle motor is uniform. The EMC is combined with the Boglietti’s model. They are integrated into a developed program by compiling source codes to achieve the analysis and prediction of iron losses in the spindle motor. The results obtained from the proposed method are compared with the prototype experiment data to verify its validity. With the purpose of ensuring accurate experiment results of iron losses, a method of no load running combined with a sudden loss of power supply is proposed to eliminate the braking torque and electromagnetic losses of the spindle motor, namely to achieve the separation of the mechanical loss from the total losses.
Association Between Smoking Cessation and Obstructive Spirometry Pattern: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Yoon Yeo Jun , Lee Myung Soo , Jang Kyu Won , Ahn Jae Bum , Hurh Kyungduk , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: June 2021

Smoking cessation aids in restoring lung function. However, whether long-term cessation can fully restore lung function has not been studied thoroughly, especially in Asian countries. This study aimed to evaluate the association between smoking cessation status and obstructive spirometry pattern among Koreans aged 40–79 years. In total, 6,298 men and 8,088 women aged 40–79 years from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2015–2019) were analyzed for smoking cessation status, including the duration after quitting. Current-smokers showed a higher likelihood of having an obstructive spirometry pattern than never-smokers among both men (odds ratio [OR]: 3.15, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.32–4.29) and women (OR: 2.60, 95% CI: 1.59–4.23). In men, the effect tended to decrease with longer duration after cessation, but male ex-smokers who had quit smoking ≥ 20 years ago still showed a higher likelihood of having an obstructive spirometry pattern than male never-smokers (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.05–1.89). In female ex-smokers, there was no significant association with the obstructive spirometry pattern, compared to that in female never-smokers. This study emphasizes the benefits of smoking cessation, possibility of long-lasting harm to lung function due to tobacco smoking, and importance of smoking prevention.
Early Overexpression of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase 4 can Affect Oxidate Stress After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: gao xuan , wu lingyun , gao yongyue , peng zheng , liu xunzhi , chen xiangxin , gao sen , xu huajie , zhang qingrong , hang chunhua , zhuang zong , Li Wei
Published: June 2021

Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), a key enzyme on the mitochondrial outer membrane, has been found to decrease activity notably in early brain injury (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). It has been demonstrated that PDH is associated with the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. Hence, in this study, we aimed to determine the cause of the decreased PDH activity and explore the potential role of PDH in EBI. We investigated the expression changes of PDH and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) in vivo and in vitro. Then, we explored the possible effects of PDH and ROS after SAH. The results showed that early overexpression of PDK4 promoted the phosphorylation of PDH, inhibited PDH activity and may play a protective role after SAH in vivo and in vitro. Finally, we investigated the levels of PDK4 and pyruvate, which accumulated due to decreased PDH activity, in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 34 patients with SAH. Statistical analysis revealed that PDK4 and pyruvate expression was elevated in the CSF of SAH patients compared with that of controls, and this high expression correlated with the degree of neurological impairment and long-term outcome. Taken together, the results show that PDK4 has the potential to serve as a new therapeutic target and biomarker for assisting in the diagnosis of SAH severity and prediction of recovery.
Effect of Flash Glucose Monitoring in T1DM Patients with Multiple Daily Insulin Injections:Improved HbA1C and Reduced Glycemic Variability
Authors: ZHANG Wenhui , LIU Yu , SUN Baosheng , SHEN Yanjun , LI Ming , PENG Lanbo , DUAN Honggang , SU Xudong , LU Shaoxia , TIAN Xiaoqin , Tian Yaqiang
Published: June 2021

Background: Flash glucose monitoring(FGM) was introduced to China in 2016 and it might improve HbA1C and reduce glycemic variability for T1DM therapy.Methods: A total of 146 patients were recruited from October 2018 to September 2019 in Liaocheng. Patients were randomly divided into FGM group or self-monitoring blood glucose(SMBG) group. Both groups wore the FGM for multiple 2 week periods, beginning with the 1st, 24th, and 48th week for gathering data,while blood samples were collected for HbA1c measurement. The dietary guidance and insulin dose adjustment were made in FGM group patients according to the dynamic blood glucose monitoring map as well as SMBG group patients according to SMBG measurements 3-4 times daily. All of the participants would insist on SMBG measurements in the days without wearing the FGM device. At the final visit, HbA1C,time in range(TIR),the duration of hypoglycemia and numbers of diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA) were taken as the main observational indexes.Results: There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics of the two groups. At 24 week,HbA1c level of FGM gruop was (8.16±1.03)%,much lower than that of SMBG group(8.68±1.01)%(p<0.05).Interquartile range(IQR),mean blood glucose(MBG),duration of hypoglycemia of FGM group also showed significant decline, compared with SMBG group(p<0.05),while TIR displayed apparently increase in FGM group [(49.39±17.54)% vs (42.44±15.49)%] (p<0.05). At 48 week,the differences were more pronounced (p<0.01).There was no observed change in the number of episodes of DKA when study was finished [(0. 25±0. 50) vs (0. 28±0. 51),P＝0.75].Conclusion: Intermittent use of FGM in T1DM patients can improve HbA1c and glycemic control without increasing hypoglycemic exposure in insulin-treated type 1 diabetes individuals in the undeveloped country.
Oxidative Stress and Cardiometabolic Biomarkers in Patients with Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Klisic Aleksandra , Kavaric Nebojsa , Ninic Ana , Kotur-Stevuljevic Jelena
Published: June 2021

Objective: Oxidative stress is assumed to be the underlying feature of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). To our knowledge, the mutual involvement of redox status homeostasis parameters [i.e., advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS) and oxidative-stress index (OSI)] and cardiometabolic biomarkers in subjects with NAFLD has not been examined yet. Accordingly, we aimed to investigate this potential relationship.Patients and Methods: A total of 122 subjects with NAFLD were compared with 56 participants without NAFLD. The diagnosis of NAFLD was confirmed by abdominal ultrasound. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were measured. OSI, Castelli’s Risk Index I (CRI-I) and Castelli’s Risk Index II (CRI-II) were calculated. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were used to test the associations between oxidative stress and cardiometabolic markers, respectively and NAFLD. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to explore its mutual effect on NAFLD status.Results: Significant positive associations of CRI-I, CRI-II, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and AOPP with NAFLD were found. PCA analysis extracted 3 significant factors: Oxidative stress-cardiometabolic related factor (i.e., triglycerides, AOPP, HDL-c and HbA1c)-explained 36% of variance; Pro-oxidants related factor (i.e., TOS and PAB)-explained 17% of variance; and Antioxidants related factor (i.e., TAS)-explained 15% of variance of the tested parameters. Moreover, binary logistic regression analysis revealed significant predictive ability of Oxidative stress-cardiometabolic related factor (p<0.001) and Pro-oxidants related factor (p<0.05) towards NAFLD status.Conclusion: In addition to oxidative stress (i.e., determined by higher AOPP levels), dyslipidemia (i.e., determined by higher lipid indexes: CRI-I and CRI-II) and inflammation (determined by higher hsCRP) are independently related to NAFLD status. The mutual involvement of pro-oxidants (i.e., TOS and PAB), or the joint involvement of pro-oxidants (i.e., AOPP) and cardiometabolic parameters (i.e., HbA1c, triglycerides and HDL-c) can differentiate subjects with NAFLD from those individuals without this metabolic disorder. New studies are needed to validate our results in order to find the best therapeutic approach for NAFLD.
Visualizing Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor 1(S1P1) Signaling During Central Nervous System De- and Re-Myelination
Authors: Hashemi Ezzat , Tsai Hsing-Chuan , Yoseph Ezra , Moreno Monica , Yeh Li-Hao , Mehta Shalin B , Kono Mari , Proia Richard , Han May Htwe
Published: June 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) mediated by aberrant immune responses. The current immune modulatory therapies are unable to protect and repair the brain damage caused by the immune attack. One of the therapeutic targets for MS is the sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) pathways, which signals via sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors 1-5 (S1P1-5), in the CNS and immune cells. In light of the potential neuro-protective properties of S1P signaling, we utilized the S1P1-GFP (Green fluorescent protein) reporter mice in the cuprizone-induced-demyelination model, to investigate the in vivo S1P- S1P1 signaling in the CNS. We observed S1P1 signaling in a subset of neural stem cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) during demyelination. Additionally, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in the SVZ and mature oligodendrocytes in the medial corpus callosum (MCC) expressed S1P1 signaling during remyelination. We did not observe S1P1 signaling in neurons and astrocytes in the cuprizone model. This approach was unable to determine S1P1-GFP signaling in the myeloid cells because of their aberrant GFP expression in GFP reporter mice. Significant S1P1 signaling was observed in lymphocytes during demyelination and inflammation. Our findings reveal β-arrestin dependent S1P1 signaling in oligodendrocyte lineage cells, indicating a role of S1P1 signaling during remyelination.
Intra-Articular Bupivacaine Injection is An Ideal Method for Postoperative Pain Control in Children with Supracondylar Humeral Fracture
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhao Jingxin , Wang Yu , He Man
Published: June 2021

Objective: Supracondylar humeral fracture is the most common fracture in children. Currently there are a large number of studies on supracondylar humeral fractures addressing the epidemiology of supracondylar fractures, injury mechanisms, treatments and complications, however there are few studies on how to control the pain in children after fractures and operation. Therefore, we retrospectively analyzed the effectiveness of an intra-articular injection of 0.25% bupivacaine on pain control after CRPP of supracondylar humeral fractures in children. To our knowledge, this is the largest study on the use of an intra-articular injection for pain control after surgery for supracondylar humeral fractures.Methods: This clinical trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy of intra-articular injection of 0.25% bupivacaine as a postoperative pain control in children with supracondylar humeral fractures who underwent closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP).Subjects (n = 120) were randomized to treatment with 0.25% bupivacaine (treatment group) (n = 60) or no injection (control group) (n =71). After surgery, all patients were prescribed Ibuprofen for analgesia. The Ibuprofen doses and the times of administration were recorded. The Faces Pain Scale-Revised (FPS-R) scores were blindly recorded during postoperative day 1.Results: The results suggested that the use of intra-articular injection of 0.25% bupivacaine improved pain control and decreased the need for Ibuprofen on postoperative day 1. FPS-R scores were also significantly lower in the treatment group as compared with those of the control group. No intra-articular injection-associated complications were reported. Conclusion: Therefore, the intra-articular injection of bupivacaine significantly improves postoperative pain control following CRPP of supracondylar humeral fractures in children.
Characteristics of Transmission Radio Waves in Undulating Coal Seams and a Topographic Correction Method For Its Tomography
Authors: WU Rongxin , GU Huanqi , hu zean
Published: June 2021

The transparency of coal seam working face is an important assurance for safe and accurate mining of coal mines. Mine geophysical prospecting is an important means for geological exploration of coal seam working faces, among which the mine radio wave tomography is one of the most common and effective methods. However, the undulating feature of the coal seam will greatly interfere the high-precision attenuation electromagnetic wave imaging. Through two-dimensional numerical simulation experiments, we identified that in a horizontal coal seam, the energy of penetrated radio wave showed an approximate linear attenuation law, while in an inclined coal seam, it showed a very different parabolic attenuation trend. To eliminate the influence of coal seam inclination on the accuracy of radio wave tomography, in this paper, we proposed a correction method for imaging undulating coal seams using radio wave tomography. Further, through three-dimensional numerical simulation experiments, we verified the validity and reliability of the correction method. Overall, both theoretical and numerical simulation experiments indicated that the method could basically eliminate the influence of coal seam inclination and improve the imaging accuracy.
HMGB1-induced NLRP3 Inflammasome Participating in Platelet Activation and Thrombocytopenia in Heatstroke
Authors: Yin Huimei , Wu Ming , Lu Yong , Wu Xinghui , Yu Baojun , Chen Ronglin , Lu Jiefu , Tong Huasheng
Published: June 2021

Background: Previous studies have suggested that NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays an important role in heat stroke (HS). As a common complication in HS, thrombocytopenia has been widely considered as a good predictor of HS-related mortality. However, little is known about the relationship between inflammasome and thrombocytopenia as well as platelet activation in HS. Methods: We established a rat HS model to investigate the roles of NLRP3 inflammasome in both platelet activation and thrombocytopenia, platelet activation was reflected with Flow cytometry while thrombocytopenia was measured by platelet count. The colocalization of NLRP3 inflammasome was detected by confocal fluorescence microscopy. Mitochondrial-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected using the molecular probes. Plasma HMGB1 levels were measured by ELISA.Results: Activation of the inflammasome was detected in platelet of rats in HS. Elevated ROS activated NLRP3 inflammasome in HS group could significantly induce platelet activation and thrombocytopenia. The upregulated P-selectin (CD62P ) and decreased platelet count triggered by NLRP3 inflammasome were attributed to the high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) in plasma. Moreover, inhibition of HMGB1, caspase-1, NLRP3, or ROS in rats with HS suppressed platelet activation and the decline of platelet count. Similar results were obtained when the receptor toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) / advanced glycation end product (RAGE) was blocked. Conclusions: This study indicated that platelets were activated by NLRP3 inflammasome through TLR4/RAGE/HMGB1 signaling pathway. The NLRP3 inflammasome might be the potential target for HS treatment.
Joint Effects of Heat Stress and PM2.5 Exposure on Glucose Metabolism and Hepatic Insulin Signaling
Authors: Gu Weijia , Cai Ziwei , Zhong Mianhua , Chen Lung-Chi , Zhang Lu , Lin Xiujuan , Chen Rucheng , Li Ran , Qin Li , Sun Qinghua , Liu Cuiqing
Published: June 2021

Background: Heatwave events are occurring more frequently, accompanied by a significant increase in the ambient concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Epidemiological studies have suggested that heat stress or PM2.5 exposure would impair glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, but the combined effect and the exact mechanisms are not well understood.Methods: C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into filtered air (FA), fine particulate matter (PM) group, filtered air combined with heat stress (FH) group, and fine particulate matter combined with heat stress (PH) group for a 4-week PM2.5 exposure, followed by a 2-week heat stress exposure, via a whole-body exposure system. Systemic glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and circulating inflammatory cytokines were examined. HSP72 expression and insulin signaling in the liver were measured.Results: Glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were impaired in response to heat stress, accompanied by lessened hepatic GLUT2 expression and inhibited insulin signaling pathway. No synergistic effects of heat stress and PM2.5 exposure on glucose homeostasis were observed, while heat-upregulated HSP72 expression was attenuated with accumulated TNF-α induced by further PM2.5 exposure.Conclusions: Heat stress combined with PM2.5 exposure induced TNF-α, which could inhibit heat-elevated hepatic HSP72 expression. Elevated circulating TNF-α impaired hepatic insulin signaling and GLUT2 expression. Then, glucose homeostasis was perturbed, and insulin action was impaired.
Attack rate and the price of SARS-CoV-2 herd immunity in Brazil
Authors: Filho Tarcisio Rocha , Mendes José , Chow Carson , Phillips James , Cordeiro Antônio , Scorza Fulvio , Almeida Antonio-Carlos , Moret Marcelo
Published: June 2021

We introduce a compartmental model with age structure to study the dynamics of the SARS-COV−2 pandemic. The contagion matrix in the model is given by the product of a probability per contact with a contact matrix explicitly taking into account the contact structure among different age groups. The probability of contagion per contact is considered as time dependent to represent non-pharmaceutical interventions, and is fitted from the time series of deaths. The approach is used to study the evolution of the COVID−19 pandemic in the main Brazilian cities and compared to two good quality serological surveys. We also discuss with some detail the case of the city of Manaus which raised special attention due to a previous report of three-quarters attack rate by the end of 2020. We discuss estimates for Manaus and all Brazilian cities with a total population of more than one million. We also estimate the attack rate with respect to the total population, in each Brazilian state by January, 1 st 2021 and May, 23 2021.
A Stochastic Turbidostat Model With Ornstein-Uhlenbeck Process: Dynamics Analysis and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Jiang Daqing , Mu Xiaojie , Hayat Tasawar , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: June 2021

Many turbidostat models are affected by environmental noise due to various complicated and uncertain factors, and Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process is a more effective and precise way. We formulate a stochastic turbidostat system incorporating Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process in this paper, develop dynamical behavior for the stochastic model, which include the existence and uniqueness of globally positive equilibrium, sufficient conditions of the extinction, the existence of a unique stationary distribution and an expression of density function of quasi-stationary distribution around the positive solution of the deterministic model. The results indicate that the weaker volatility intensity canensure the existence and uniqueness of stationary distribution, and the stronger reversion speed can lead to the extinction of microorganism. The validity of analytical results is verified through numerical simulation, which assess the influence of the reversion speed and the volatility intensity on the long-term behavior of microorganism.
Silencing Acetyl-CoA carboxylase A (ACACA) and Sterol Regulatory Element-binding Protein 1 (SREBP1) Genes Through RNAi Reduce Cholesterol Content in Serum and Eggs of Transgenic Chicken
Authors: Prasad Athe Rajendra , Bhattacharya Tarun , Chatterjee RN , Divya D , Bhanja SK , Shanmugam M , Sagar NG
Published: July 2021

Cholesterol is synthesized in chicken through de novo lipid biosynthetic pathway where two most important genes viz. SREBP1 and ACACA play immense role. To minimize cholesterol synthesis, RNAi approach was adopted and accordingly, we developed transgenic chicken possessing ACACA and SREBP1 shRNA constructs, which showed lower level of ACACA and SREBP1 in serum. The serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol was significantly (P<0.05) lower by 26.8 and 31.3%, and 56.3 and 26.4%, respectively in ACACA and SREBP1 transgenic birds compared to the control. The egg total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol content was significantly (P<0.05) lower in both ACACA and SREBP1 transgenic birds by 14.3 and 13.2%, and 10.3 and 13.6%, respectively compared to the control. It is concluded that the protocol was perfected to develop transgenic chicken through RNAi for knocking down the expression of ACACA and SREBP1 proteins, which minimized the cholesterol and triglycerides contents in serum and eggs.
Two-Photon Interferences of Weak Coherent Lights
Authors: Kim Heonoh , Kwon Osung , Moon Han Seb
Published: June 2021

Multiphoton interference is an important phenomenon in modern quantum mechanics and experimental quantum optics, and it is fundamental for the development of quantum information science and technologies. Over the last three decades, several theoretical and experimental studies have been performed to understand the essential principles underlying such interference and to explore potential applications. Recently, the two-photon interference (TPI) of phase-randomized weak coherent states has played a key role in the realization of long-distance quantum communication based on the use of classical light sources. In this context, we investigated TPI experiments with weak coherent pulses and quantitatively analyzed the results in terms of the single- and coincidence-counting rates and one- and two-photon interference-fringe shapes. We experimentally examined the Hong-Ou-Mandel-type TPI of phase-randomized weak coherent pulses to compare the TPI effect at the single-photon level with that of correlated photons. Further experiments were also performed with two temporally- and spatially separated weak coherent pulses. Although the observed interference results, including the results of visibility and fringe shape, can be suitably explained by classical intensity correlation, the physics underlying the TPI effect needs to be interpreted as the interference between the two-photon states at the single-photon level within the utilized interferometer. The results of this study can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the TPI of coherent light at the single-photon level.
Effect of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles on Plant Enzymatic Activities Under Drought
Authors: Jahantab Esfandiar , Farzadmehr Jalil , Abadi Nikoo , Yazdanshenas Habib
Published: June 2021

The aim of this work was to study the effect of metal oxide nanoparticles (MO NPs) on enzymatic activities (EAs) of two main plant life forms under drought stress (DS). Foliar spray of silver oxide (AgO), iron oxide (FeO), zinc oxide (ZnO) and cadmium oxide (CdO) at levels of 30, 60, 90 and 120 mg.L-1 were used on aerial parts of forb Sanguisorba officinalis L. and grass Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. under DS levels of 25-100% field capacity (FC). Glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured after two weeks of the experiment. The results indicate that the EAs changes varied depending on the plant life form, levels of DS, type and levels of NPs. Overall, application of 30- 60 mg.L-1 MO NPs under 25-50%FC significantly reduced EAs, especially in forb (P<0.001). Higher concentration of MO NPs significantly increase EAs. A decrease in CAT (20.90%, 18.80%), POD (21.30%, 17.67%) and SOD (23.14%, 16.88%) was observed under levels of 60 mg.l-1 of ZnO NPs under 25-50%FC in forb and grass, respectively. High concentration of CdO NPs (90-120 mg.l-1) caused by increase (max= 24.0%) in EAs in both life forms under 25%FC.
COVID-19 pandemic in India: Chronological comparison of the regional heterogeneity in the pandemic progression and gaps in mitigation strategies
Authors: Datta Satabdi , Chakroborty Neloy Kumar , Sharda Deepinder , Attri Komal , Choudhury Diptiman
Published: June 2021

The second wave of COVID-19 exerted more catastrophe in India than the first. The progressions of both waves were heterogeneous in the six different regions involving 28 states and 8 union territories. An analysis of the temporal variations in new cases and fatalities in all the states of India was done for both the 1st (30th January 2020 to 31st January 2021) and 2nd wave (1st February 2021 to 29th May 2021), which showed that India accounted for over 16% and 9% of the cases and fatalities of the world respectively. The Southern and Western regions remained the top contributor of cases and fatalities in both waves. The state of Punjab and Maharashtra reported the highest CFR (3.24 and 2.5 respectively) in the country during the 1st wave, and in the second wave, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (2.6), and Punjab (2.25) reported the highest CFR. The states of Goa and Delhi showed the highest CCR and CDR during the 1st wave respectively, whereas Lakshadweep and Goa reported the highest CCR and CDR respectively in the 2nd wave. The study comprehends the severity of the second wave over all the states of the country and highlights the major hotspots regions and some gaps in mitigation strategies.
The Chaos of Triage: A Model for Early Exclusion of Cardiac Injury in Chest Gunshot Wound Patients
Authors: Fu Chih-Yuan , Bajani Francesco , Saadat Ghulam H , Kaminsky Matt , Dennis Andrew , Starr Fredric , Messer Thomas , Poulakidas Stathis , Bokhari Faran
Published: June 2021

IntroductionHeart injury caused by thoracic gunshot wounds (GSW) is especially life-threatening and require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Heart injury is especially life-threatening and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. During the pre-hospital phase and initial triage in the emergency department (ED), early recognition of a patient with heart GSW is difficult but important. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictability of heart injury in patients with chest GSWs. MethodsThe National Trauma Data Bank was queried for patients with chest GSW treated at all US trauma centres from July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2016. Patients with and without heart injuries (ICD-9: 861.00-03, 861.10-13) were compared and analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to evaluate independent factors of heart injury which could be obtained during the pre-hospital or triage phase only. Step-backward selection was used to establish a model for such patients. We used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to test the accuracy of this model and Youden’s J statistic to find the cutoff value of sensitivity/specificity. Level 1 trauma registry data from Stroger Hospital of Cook County (July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2017) was used for external validation of this prediction model.Results47,044 patients with chest GSW were evaluated in the ED and 8.6% of them had heart injuries. The mortality rates of patients without cardiac injury versus those with cardiac injury were 9.0% (3864/42997) and 21.7% (879/4047) respectively. Patients with heart injuries were significantly younger (28.4 vs. 29.3, p<0.001), had lower SBP (34.7 vs. 103.8 mmHg, p<0.001), had lower GCS (5.1 vs. 11.2, p<0.001) and a higher probability of apnea (58.3% vs. 14.7%, p<0.001), higher rate of pulselessness (59.9% vs. 12.0%, p<0.001), and more self-inflicted injuries (9.7% vs. 8.5%, p<0.001) than patients without heart injuries. The cutoff values of SBP and GCS for prediction of heart injury were 61mmHg (AUC: 0.783) and 5.5 (AUC: 0.768) respectively. Integration of six independent factors (age, SBP, GCS, apnea, lack of pulse and suicide intent) with multivariate logistic regression showed an AUC: 0.823 and specificity of 88.8% in the heart injury prediction model. External validation with the local database showed 95.6% specificity.ConclusionEarly diagnosis of heart injury is important in the management of patients with chest GSWs. Our model has high specificity and can be beneficial for early triage of cardiac injury in patients with GSW to the chest.
Phase-encoded RF signal generation based on an integrated 49GHz micro-comb soliton crystal optical source
Authors: Moss David
Published: June 2021

We demonstrate photonic RF phase encoding based on an integrated micro-comb source. By assembling single-cycle Gaussian pulse replicas using a transversal filtering structure, phase encoded waveforms can be generated by programming the weights of the wavelength channels. This approach eliminates the need for RF signal generators for RF carrier generation or arbitrary waveform generators for phase encoded signal generation. A large number of wavelengths—up to 60—were provided by the microcomb source, yielding a high pulse compression ratio of 30. Reconfigurable phase encoding rates ranging from 2 to 6 Gb/s were achieved by adjusting the length of each phase code. This work demonstrates the significant potentials of this microcomb-based approach to achieve high-speed RF photonic phase encoding with low cost and footprint.
Investigation of time period of activity for on-demand classes among pharmacy students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ikeda Tokunori , Horio Fukuko , Nakayama Yasumune , Uchida Yuji
Published: June 2021

Background

The COVID-19 outbreak brought about major changes in the format in which university lectures were delivered in Japan. Most classes changed from face-to-face classes to remote education methods to prevent infection. This study investigated the relationship between lecture comprehension with on-demand classes and the use of time to complete lecture-related assignments during COVID-19.
Methods

The eligible participants were 139 third-year pharmacy students; they received seven pharmacotherapeutics lectures via on-demand classes from September to November 2020. We classified the participants into three groups according to the period between lecture upload to the submission of related assignments: submission on the day of upload (“early,” n = 42); the 2nd day to the day before the deadline (“intermediate,” n = 58); and on the deadline day (“late,” n = 39). In our analysis, we mainly used Spearman’s correlation coefficients to examine the correlations among end-of-semester examination scores, total assignment scores, and time of assignment submission.
Results

A strong positive correlation was evident between test scores and total assignment scores in the early group (r = 0.68, P < 0.001) and a weak correlation in the intermediate group (r = 0.27, P = 0.038), but there was no correlation in the late group. We observed a negative correlation between test scores and assignment submission time in the early group (r = − 0.59, P < 0.001) but not in the intermediate or late groups.
Conclusions

On-demand classes give university students the opportunity to choose when they wish to study. Remote education offers a certain amount of freedom and encourages students’ initiative; however, our results suggest that some students cannot make the best use of on-demand lecture characteristics and act appropriately. Therefore, while taking advantage of on-demand education during COVID-19, it is necessary to consider students’ use of time.
Awareness of prostate cancer and its associated factors among Ethiopian men, 2021: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gebru Tilaye , Mekonen Hussen , Getahun Negalign Getahun
Published: June 2021

Background: Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer in men worldwide. It is the world's second most diagnosed disease and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In Ethiopia, it is the 3rd most common type of cancer. Awareness of Prostate cancer is key to early detection and prevention. The major risk factors for prostate cancer can be controlled by increasing public awareness. Objective: We aimed to describe what they knew about prostate cancer by asking questions about prostate cancer-related awareness and we also investigated possible relationships between the variables.Methods: In 2021, we conducted a cross-sectional study among a systematic sample of men attending the Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in the Urology unit. We used a researcher-administered questionnaire to collect the data and Descriptive statistics and linear regressions were used for the analysis. The strength of the association between the variables was described using the unstandardized β with a 95% Confidence interval. Results: A total of 250 patients were approached with a response rate of 241(96.4%), with a mean score of awareness of prostate cancer risk factors of 41.2%, symptoms 43.8%, screening 44.7%, and prevention 49.5% respectively. Families with average monthly income >8900ETB (β=2.6, 95%CI:1.1-4.1, P=0.001), heard about prostate cancer (β=5.6, 95%CI:1.5-9.6, P=0.011), having a regular source of care every six months and above (β=4.3, 95%CI: 2.5-6.1, P<0.001), three times, admission history (β=5.4, 95%CI:1.3-9.5, P=0.009), and health care providers (β=10.7, 95%CI 6.6-14.8, P<0.001) as the major source of information followed by the media (β=9.6, 95%CI 5.4-13.8, P<0.001) were significantly associated with awareness of prostate cancer.Conclusion: Prostate cancer is one of the most important health-related problems among men worldwide. Therefore, a well-planned health education program should be implemented to address the observed awareness gaps.