bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Safety Features of Advanced PWR Assembly Using SiC, Zr, FeCrAl and SS-310 As Cladding Materials
Authors: Mustafa Sayed
Published: December 2020

In this work, SiC (Silicon carbide), FeCrAl (ferritic), SS-310 (stainless steel 310) and Zirconium are simulated by MCNPX code as cladding materials in advanced PWR assembly. A number of reactor safety parameters are evaluated for the candidate cladding materials as reactivity, cycle length, radial power distribution of fuel pellet, reactivity coefficients, spectral hardening, peaking factor, thermal neutron fraction and delayed neutron fraction. The neutron economy presented by Zr and SiC models is analyzed through the burnup calculations on the unit cell and assembly levels. The study also provided the geometric conditions of all cladding materials under consideration in terms of the relation between fuel enrichment and cladding thickness from the viewpoint to achieve the same discharge burnup as the Zircaloy cladding. It was found that the SiC model participated in extending the life cycle by 2.23% compared to Zr. The materials other than SiC largely decreased discharge burnup in comparison with Zircaloy. Furthermore, the claddings with lower capture cross-sections (SiC and Zr) exhibit higher relative fission power at the pellet periphery. The simulation also showed that using SiC with a thickness of 571.15 µm and 4.83% U-235 can satisfy the EOL irradiation value as Zr. For reactivity coefficient, the higher absorbing materials (SS-310 and FeCrAl) exhibit more negative FTCs, MTCs and VRCs at the BOL But, at the intermediate stages of burnup Zr and SiC have a strong trend of negative reactivity coefficients. Finally, the delayed neutron fraction of SiC and Zr models is the highest among all the four models.
Epidemiology of Distal Radius Fractures in Children and Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic – A Two-Center Study
Authors: Olech Jarosław , Ciszewski Mariusz , Morasiewicz Piotr
Published: December 2020

Bacground: The purpose of our study was a comprehensive assessment of the impact of theCOVID-19 pandemic on distal radius fractures(DRF)epidemiology,including both children and adults and various fracture fixation methods in two large trauma centers in Poland.Methods: This study compared the data on the treatment of distal radius fractures in Poland in two periods:the period of the COVID-19 pandemic and the corresponding period prior to the pandemic.We assessed detailed data from two trauma centers for pediatric and adult patients.We compared epidemiological data,demographic data,treatment type,and hospital stay duration.Results: The total number of patients hospitalized due to DRF during the pandemic was 15.1% lower than that from the pre-COVID-19 pandemic period.In the case of adult patients, the total number of those hospitalized during the pandemic decreased significantly(by 22%) from132 to103patients.Analysis of the individual treatment methods revealed that the number of adults who underwent conservative treatment was considerably(by 30.3%)significantly lower in the period of the COVID-19 pandemic.Compared to the figures from the pre-pandemic period,the number of surgically treated adults was significantly higher(by 53.8%).Our analyses showed hospitalizations of surgically treated adults to be shorter by 12.7%during the pandemic,with the corresponding hospitalizations of surgically treated pediatric patients to be shorter by11.5%.Conclusions: Our study showed decreased numbers of pediatric and adult patients with DRFs during the COVID-19 pandemic.The pandemic caused an increase in the number of children and significantly increase adults undergoing surgical treatment for DRFs, a decrease in mean patient age,shorter significantly durations of hospital stay, and an increased number of men with DRFs.
Effect of Periodontal Therapy on COPD Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Apessos Ioulianos , Voulgaris Athanasios , Agrafiotis Michalis , Andreadis Dimitrios , Steiropoulos Paschalis
Published: December 2020

Background: Latest evidence suggests that periodontitis is prevalent among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while recent studies have also reported a potential benefit of periodontal treatment on several COPD outcomes. This systematic review aims to determine the impact of periodontal treatment on exacerbation rate, lung function and quality of life of COPD patients. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases of PubMed, Scopus, Virtual Health Library, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, Web of Science, ProQuest Dissertation and Theses Global and Google Scholar was conducted. Search restricted to studies involving human subjects and published from January 2000 to March 2020 in English language. Distiller Systematic Review software was used for data management. Risk of bias was assessed using Risk of Bias 2 (RoB2) and Risk of Bias for non-randomized studies of intervention (ROBINS-I) tools. Overall quality of evidence was judged based on Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) working group methodology.Results: Out of 1442 articles retrieved, 7 full text articles were included in the review. Limited evidence suggests that periodontal treatment in patients with COPD and periodontitis is associated with reduced exacerbation frequency and a slower lung function decline rate, while its effects on quality of life remain unclear. In addition, periodontal treatment in COPD is associated with lower hospitalization rates and reduced all-cause mortality. Overall, the included studies demonstrated high heterogeneity and very low-to-moderate quality of evidence. Conclusions: Although it is reasonable to advise COPD patients not to neglect their dental health, further studies are warranted to determine the role of periodontal therapy on COPD clinical outcomes. Registration: PROSPERO 2020 (CRD42020158481)
InTransBo: An Integrative Transcript Library to Enable Genome-Free Systematic Exploration of Bougainvillea
Authors: Luo Qi , Chen Ziliang , Xu Tingting , Huang Dangzheng , Hou Haitao , Hong Chenjie , Zhan Fulin , Guo Hangqi , Lin Zhe , Guo Xiaoling , Chen Liang , Ji Zhi-Liang
Published: December 2020

Members of the genus Bougainvillea are rich sources of natural dyes, pigments, and traditional medicines. They are also commonly used as ornamentals in roadside landscape construction. However, the horticultural development of Bougainvillea flowers with extended growth periods and coloration is not always feasible. One reason is limited molecular knowledge and no genomic information for Bougainvillea. Here, we compiled an expressed transcript sequence library for Bougainvillea by integrating 20 Illumina-sequencing RNA transcriptomes. The library consisted of 97,623 distinct transcripts. Of these, 47,006 were protein-coding, 31,109 were lncRNA, and 19,508 were unannotated. We also confirmed that the library is an alternative genomic reference for accurate transcriptome assembly and its performance was substantially better than that of the de novo method. We also curated the Integrative Transcript Library database for Bougainvillea known as InTransBo (http://www.bio-add.org/InTransBo/index.jsp). To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first large scale genomic resource for Bougainvillea. Overall, the library helps fill the genomic gap and elucidate the transcriptional nature of Bougainvillea. It may also advance progress in the precise regulation of flowering in horticulture. The same strategy can be readily applied toward the systematic exploration of other plant species lacking complete genomic information.
First Report of the mcr-1 colistin Resistance Gene Identified in Escherichia coli Isolated from a Clinical Sample in Naples in 2020
Authors: SANTELLA BIAGIO , ZANNELLA CARLA , VECCHIO CHIARA DEL , CHIANESE ANNALISA , FOLLIERO VERONICA , FOLGORE ANTONIO , MONTELLA FORTUNATO , PILLONI ARGENIA , FOGLIA FRANCESCO , CARRATURO FEDERICA , GUIDA MARCO , BOCCIA GIOVANNI , GALDIERO MASSIMILIANO , FRANCI GIANLUIGI
Published: December 2020

Background: The emergence of a novel plasmid-mediated colistin resistance mechanism, encoded by the mcr-1 gene, represents a major public health concern. The mechanism of resistance to colistin, mediated by plasmids, is a serious problem, both for its ability to be transferred to other species, and for infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative, in which colistin is used as an antimicrobial drug of last line for the treatment of these infections. The present study highlights the first isolation and genetic evaluation of detecting plasmid-mediated resistance to colistin in a multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolated from a clinical sample in the metropolitan city of Naples, Italy. Results: Colistin-resistant E. coli isolate was identified in August 2020 from the blood culture of a male patient with multiple comorbidities. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of colistin was 8 mg/L. In addition to colistin, the isolate was resistant to third-generation cephalosporins (cefotaxime and ceftazidime), penicillin (amoxicillin and piperacillin), aminoglycosides (gentamicin and tobramycin), and fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin). However, it showed susceptibility to carbapenems (ertapenem, imipenem, and meropenem), tetracyclines (tigecycline), and piperacillin-tazobactam. The results of the PCR confirmed the presence of the mcr-1 resistance gene. Conclusion: This study confirms the presence of resistance to colistin mediated by the mcr-1 gene in a clinical isolate of E. coli. Although resistance to colistin caused by the mcr-1 gene is not common in our region, it should not be ignored. Therefore, further surveillance studies are recommended to monitor the spread of plasmid-mediated colistin resistance genes in Gram-negative MDR bacteria.
The Role of RNA m6A Methylation in the Regulation of Postnatal Hypoxia-induced Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: xu shanshan , Xu Xuefeng , Zhang Ziming , Yan Lingling , Zhang Liyan , Du Lizhong
Published: December 2020

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex pulmonary vascular disease characterized by an imbalance in vasoconstrictor/vasodilator signaling within the pulmonary vasculature. Recent evidence suggests that exposure to hypoxia early in life can cause alterations in the pulmonary vasculature and lead to the development of PH. However, the long-term impact of postnatal hypoxia on lung development and pulmonary function remains unknown. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulates gene expression and governs many important biological processes. However, the function of m6A in the development of PH remains poorly characterized. Thus, the purpose of this investigation was to test the two-fold hypothesis that 1) postnatal exposure to hypoxia would alter lung development leading to PH in adult rats, and 2) m6A modification would change in rats exposed to hypoxia, suggesting it plays a role in the development of PH.Methods: Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to a hypoxic environment (FiO2: 12%) within 24 h after birth for 2 weeks. PH was defined as an increased right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and pathologic changes of pulmonary vasculature measured by α-SMA immunohistochemical staining. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) was performed to analyze m6A modification changes in lung tissue between 2 and 9 weeks following exposure to postnatal hypoxia.Results: mean pulmonary arterial pressure, lung/body weight ratio, and the Fulton index was significantly greater in rats exposed to hypoxia when compared to control and the difference persisted into adulthood. m6A methyltransferase and demethylase proteins were significantly downregulated in postnatal hypoxia-induced PH. Distinct m6A modification peak-related genes differed between the two groups, and these genes were associated with lung development.Conclusions: Our results indicate postnatal hypoxia dysregulates lung development, leading to PH, and may have a long-term effect on adult rat lung development via the alterations in pulmonary vasculature function. METTL3, a m6A methyltransferase, was elevated in rats exposed to postnatal hypoxia in both the postnatal period and in adulthood, suggesting that it contributes to the development of PH following postnatal hypoxia. Our findings provide new insights into the impact of postnatal hypoxia and the role of m6A in the development of pulmonary vascular pathophysiology.
Stem Vacuole-targeted Sucrose Isomerase Enhances Sugar Accumulation in Sorghum
Authors: Liu Guoquan , Zhang Yan , Gong Hao , Li Shan , Pan Yunrong , Davis Christopher , Jing Hai-Chun , Wu Luguang , Godwin Ian D.
Published: December 2020

Background: Sugar accumulation is critically important in determining sugar crop productivity. However, improvement in sugar content has been stagnant among sugar crops for decades. Sorghum, especially sweet sorghum with high biomass, has shown great potential for biofuel. In this study, sorghum was investigated as a C4 diploid model for crops with more complicated genomes such as maize and sugarcane. To enhance sugar accumulation, the sucrose isomerase (SI) gene, driven by stem-specific promoters (A2 or LSG) with a vacuole-targeted signal peptide, was transformed into the sorghum inbred line (Tx430).Results: The study demonstrated that transgenic lines of grain sorghum, containing 50-60% isomaltulose, accumulated sevenfold (804 mM) more total sugar than the control Tx430 did (118 mM) in stalks. Subsequently, the elite engineered lines (A5, and LSG9) were crossed with sweet sorghum (R9188, and Rio). Total sugar contents (over 750 mM), were significantly higher in F1, and F2 progenies than the control Rio (480 mM). The sugar contents of the engineered lines (over 750 mM), including T0, T1, F1, and F2, are higher than that of the field-grown sugarcane (normal range 600-700 mmol/L). Additionally, physiological characterization demonstrated that the superior progenies had notably higher rates of photosynthesis, sucrose transport, and sink strength than the controls.Conclusions: The genetic engineering approach has significantly enhanced total sugar content in grain sorghum (T0, and T1) and hybrid sorghum (F1, and F2), demonstrating that sorghum can accumulate sugar contents as high or higher than sugarcane. This research puts sorghum in the spotlight and frontier as a biofuel crop, particularly as it is a shorter duration crop. The substantial increase in sugar content would lead to enormous financial benefits for industrial utilization. This study could have a substantial impact on renewable bioenergy. More importantly, our results demonstrated that the phenotype of high sugar accumulation is inheritable and shed light on improvement for other sugar crops.
Identification of Key Pathways and Genes in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Based on Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Li Hao , Zong Shimin , Wen Yingying , Du Peiyu , Yu Wenting , Wu Nan , Zong Gang , Xiao Hongjun
Published: December 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify novel molecular markers and potential molecular targets for NPC based on bioinformatics analysis.Methods: We used bioinformatics to analyze one miRNA and two mRNA expression microarray datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The study included nasopharyngeal tissue samples from 57 patients with NPC and 32 patients without NPC. Fifty-one screened differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were evaluated by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signal pathway enrichment analyses, and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. Results: The GO analysis results showed that the DEGs were mainly related to cell cycle checkpoints, cell division, and DNA synthesis during DNA repair. The KEGG analysis results suggested that the DEGs were mainly associated with extracellular matrix receptor interactions. In the PPI network, we identified RAD51AP1, MAD2L1, SPP1, CCNE2, CNTNAP2, and MELK as hub genes, clustered a key module, and identified eight key transcription factors: TFII-I, Pax-5, STAT4, GR-alpha, YY1, C/EBPβ, GRβ, and TFIID. Conclusion: The hub genes and signaling pathways identified above may play an important role in NPC development and provide ideas for the selection of valuable prognostic markers and the development of new molecular-targeted drugs.
Joint Improvements of Radar/infrared Stealth for Exhaust System of Unmanned Aircraft Based on Sorting Factor Pareto Solution
Authors: Zhou Zeyang , Huang Jun
Published: December 2020

In order to reduce the radar cross section (RCS) of the unmanned aircraft while suppressing its infrared signature, a comprehensive design method (CDM) based on sorting factor Pareto solution is presented. The physical optics and physical diffraction theory are used to evaluate the electromagnetic scattering characteristics of the aircraft, and the Monte Carlo and ray tracing method are used to evaluate the infrared radiation intensity of the exhaust system. CDM is used to evaluate and screen each individual in each offspring, and the design parameters and sub-models of the aircraft exhaust system are continuously improved. The results show that the exhaust port model, lower baffle and nozzle height are the main factors affecting the RCS indicators, nozzle stages, exhaust port model, lower baffle and outer width make the main contribution to infrared radiation suppression. The presented CDM is efficient and effective in enhancing the radar/infrared integrated stealth performance of the aircraft.
Effect of Self-Care Education Based on Team Members Teaching Design on Self-Efficacy in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fakhravari Fariba , Dehghani Ali , Hojat Mohsen
Published: December 2020

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis diseases threatens independence and self-efficacy for effective participation in family and community. Patients' low self-efficacy affects their ability to cope with problems and stress, depression their level of motivation in difficult situations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of self-care education by team member teaching on self-efficacy in Multiple sclerosis patients. MethodsIn the randomized controlled trial study, 40 Multiple sclerosis patients from Jahrom MS society were selected by simple random sampling and then were divided into intervention and control groups by random allocation. In the intervention group, 6 training sessions were held twice a week for 60 minutes. Data were collected using Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy Scale before, immediately and one month after intervention in both groups. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 21 and descriptive statistics, chi-square test, repeated measurements and ANOVA at significant level of 0.05.ResultsPatients in intervention and control groups were matched for demographic variables such as age, gender, marital status, education, occupation and so on. The mean score of self-efficacy in before, immediately and one month after intervention significantly different showed in intervention group (p = 0.001), whereas these changes were not significant in the control group (0.228). Self-efficacy scores were also significantly different between control and intervention groups at immediately and one month after intervention (p = 0.001).ConclusionBased on the findings, the team training approach provides a simple and safe learning for patients and leads to the improvement of self-efficacy in Multiple sclerosis patients.
Identification of High-risk Genes in Triple-negative Breast Cancer by Bioinformatics
Authors: Lu Xiang , Chen Caiping , Ni GuiHong , Tao Min
Published: December 2020

Background: Current research has failed to find a target gene for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which has resulted in the treatment for TNBC being less effective than that for other types of breast cancer. Finding high-risk genes for TNBC by bioinformatics may help to identify target genes for TNBC.Methods: The gene expression data of 4 chips (GSE7904, GSE31448, GSE45827, GSE65194) which contains of normal breast tissue and TNBC tissue were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between normal breast tissue and TNBC tissue were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) functional annotation analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of DEGs were performed by the DAVID website. Protein-protein interaction network analysis of DEGs was carried out by the STRING website, and the results were imported into Cytoscape. Then, module analysis was carried out by using the MCODE app. The online tool of the Kaplan-Meier Plotter website was used to analyse associations between relapse-free survival (RFS) and the expression of genes obtained by MCODE, and the metastasis-free survival (MFS) data from GSE58812 were used for survival verification. The difference in the expression of the identified genes was verified by the online tool of the UALCAN website. Results: There were 127 upregulated and 293 downregulated genes in the DEGs. The GO and KEGG analysis showed that the DEGs were particularly enriched in mitotic nuclear division, extracellular space, heparin binding, and ECM-receptor interaction. MCODE obtained a total of 47 genes in 4 gene clusters, 29 of which were related to RFS. Survival verification indicated that 14 out of 29 genes were related to MFS, namely, CCNB1, AURKB, KIF20A, BUB1B, DLGAP5, CXCL11, CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL12, IGF1, FN1, CFD, SGO2 and CDCA5. Conclusions: We identified 14 genes as the high-risk genes for TNBC. Further research on these genes may identify the target genes of TNBC.
A Novel Recessive PDZD7 Bi-Allelic Mutation in an Iranian Family with Non-Syndromic Hearing Loss
Authors: Fahimi Hossein , Behroozi Samira , Noavar Sadaf , Parvini Farshid
Published: December 2020

BackgroundAutosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) is genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous with over 110 genes causally implicated in syndromic and non-syndromic hearing loss (HL). Here, we investigate the genetic etiology of deafness in twoGJB2 and GJB6 negative patients presenting with pre-lingual, progressive, severe hearing loss.MethodsTargeted exome sequencing (TES) using Next Generation Illumina Sequencing was used to analyze the exonic and some other important genomic regions of 154 genes in the proband. Subsequently, the mutation found was confirmed by Sanger sequencing in other affected sibling and healthy family members. The possible impact of the reported mutation on the corresponding protein was also evaluated by using bioinformatics tools. Moreover, the affected patients underwent audiological and ophthalmic evaluations.ResultsTES identified a novel homozygous missense mutation c.251T>C (p.I84T) in exon 3 of PDZD7 gene. In addition, segregation and phenotype-genotype correlation analysis as well as in-silico evaluations confirmed the autosomal recessive inheritance pattern and disease-causing nature of mutation found. Conclusions﻿In overall, our finding could expand the pathogenic mutations spectrum and strengthens the clinical importance of the PDZD7 gene in ARNSHL patients. It can also aid to conduct genetic counseling, prenatal diagnosis and clinical management of these types of genetic disorders.
Identification of Hub Genes Associated With Clinical Characteristics and Potential Therapy of Diabetic Nephropathy by Bioinformatics Analysis.
Authors: Xu Si , Wu Sha , Yang Min , Li Xiaoning
Published: December 2020

Background: To provide molecular markers and potential targeted molecular therapy for diabetic nephropathy by screening hubgenes based on bioinformatic analysis. Results: We found 91 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between diabetic nephropathy tissues and normal kidney tissues. Majority DEGs were significantly enriched in the extracellular matrix structural constituent, collagen-containing extracellular matrix. KEGG pathway analysis showed that most of DEGs participated in PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications. Five high relevant sub-networks and the top 16 genes according to 12 topological algorithms were screened out and also five co-expressed gene modules were identified by WGCNA. Eventually, 5 hub genes were identified by taking the intersection which might be involved in the progression of DN. And 11 microRNAs were associated with related genes in WebGestalt. Conclusions: We identified five hub genes, namely COL1A2, COL6A3, COL15A1, CLU and LUM, and their related microRNAs(especially miR29 and miR196), which might be used as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for diabetic nephropathy.
PTPN22 is a Potentially Diagnostic Biomarker for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Gao Lei , Ruan Peng , Wang Kaijing , Ge Jianjun , Kong Xiang
Published: December 2020

Background: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a severely life-threating disease; it is generally asymptomatic with diagnosis at a very late stage. Moreover, the genetic components and underpinnings in AAA is considerable with an estimated heritability of up to 70% roughly. Therefore, identifying the biomarkers for AAA is valuable toward predicting and eventually inspecting the high-risk populations. Methods: Herein, we used integrative bioinformatics and experimental analyses to reveal that protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22 (PTPN22) can be a potentially diagnostic biomarker for AAA.Results: PTPN22, whose expression is significantly upregulated in aortic tissues of AAA, was primarily identified as a genetic biomarker for AAA, while it has no diagnostic value for patients with thoracic aortic aneurysm. Moreover, CaCl2-based in vitro AAA model was adopted to experimentally show that Garcinia acid could be a therapeutic drug for AAA. Conclusions: Collectively, these results indicate that PTPN22 may be a potentially diagnostic biomarker for AAA.
A New and Reliable Landmark in Parotid Surgery: Tragomastoid Groove (Akil Groove)
Authors: kınış vefa , akıl ferit , yılmaz ümit , akdağ mehmet , ayral muhammed , topçu ismail , toprak serdar , durak hayrullah
Published: December 2020

Background: Parotid surgery is a frequently performed surgery in otorhinolaryngology practice with many possible complications. Due to the high ratio of facial paralysis during parotid surgery, we defined a new landmark for identifying and protecting the facial nerve as early as possible during surgery. Materials and Methods: The study was designed as a prospective anatomical method. The important details and relationship of the tragomastoid groove to the facial nerve truncus were examined during surgery on 30 patients. In addition, the demographics of the patients, the type of surgery and the pathological results of surgeries were evaluated.Results: The mean distance of the tragomastoid groove to the facial nerve truncus was 20.53±1.71 mm, the mean deepness of the tragomastoid groove was 1.91+-0.26 mm, and the mean superficial part of the tragomastoid groove was 0.83±0.23 mm. The tragomastoid groove was situated either across from the facial nerve at the place where the facial nerve truncus exits the stylomastoid foramen or just inferior to the truncus in all patients. Conclusion: The tragomastoid groove was defined for the first time in the literature as a reliable landmark for identifying the facial nerve truncus easily during parotid surgery.
Effectiveness of Combined Tui-Na and Oral Chinese Medicine on Knee Osteoarthritis – a Randomized Wait-List Controlled Trial Study Protocol
Authors: Chan Kin Ho , Ching Jessica YL , Chan Kam Leung , Lau Hoi Yi , Chu Ka Man , Chan Kenny , Pang Hon Fai , Song Tianhe , Ng Bacon Fung Leung , LIN Zhi-Xiu
Published: December 2020

BackgroundKnee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative joint condition that causes disability and pain amongst the elderly. The prevalence of KOA among persons aged 63 or above is approximately 30%. It is estimated that around 10% of the Hong Kong residents will have KOA by the year 2036. Previous studies have reported the positive effect of Tui-na treatment and Chinese herbal formula Du-Huo-Ji-Sheng Decoction (DHJSD) for KOA treatment. However, the therapeutic effect of the combination of both methods is unknown. The current study aims to evaluate the therapeutic effect of the combined therapy of Tui-na and oral administration of DHJSD on KOA using a randomized controlled design.MethodsThis study protocol describes a prospective, randomized wait-list controlled trial which will be conducted in the Yan Oi Tong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centres (in Tuen Mun and Islands Districts). The eligible subjects will be randomly assigned to the treatment group and wait-list control group in a 1:1 ratio. Both the treatment and wait-list control groups will receive 8 sessions of Tui-na manipulation. DHJSD will be given to the subjects in the treatment group but not the wait-list group. The primary outcome will be assessed using the WOMAC score at 4 weeks after randomization. The secondary outcomes include the WOMAC scores at 2 weeks and 8 weeks after randomization and the health-related quality of life, the 5-level EQ-5D version (EQ-5D-5L), which will be conducted at 2 and 4 weeks after randomization and at follow-up (8 weeks after randomization).ParticipantsSeventy subjects aged 50 years or above, who meet the criteria of KOA according to the American College of Rheumatology, with Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score ≥ 39 will be recruited.DiscussionThe study will provide clinical evidence for the effectiveness of the combined Tui-na and oral administration of DHJSD for the treatment of subjects with KOA. The study will also provide information for large-scale randomized placebo-controlled trial in the future.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT04492670. Registered on 28 July 2020.
Emergent Magnetic Monopole and Dipole Screening by Proximity Effect With Noble Metal
Authors: Martins Fernando , Paiva Teônis de , Duarte Daniel , Rodrigues João , Mól Lucas , Borme Jerome , Freitas Paulo , Araujo Clodoaldo de
Published: December 2020

In this work we present emergent screening of magnetic monopole and dipole by the presence of 20nm aluminum cover layer onsquare artificial spin ice (ASI) systems. Our results were obtained in base of magnetic atomic force measurements, performedafter external magnetic field steps application. We show that the evolution of magnetization and monopole population is affectedby the aluminum presence and attribute that phenomena to the proximity effect, which is responsible for the magnetizationvanish of the first atomic layers at the ferromagnetic interface. Using experimental values to estimate the decrease in thenanomagnetic dipole value used in an emergent excitation model and in the switching field distribution heterogeneity usedin simulations, we observe a very good agreement among experimental and simulation results. The presented emergentscreening could be used in new ASI geometries for thermodynamic activation or proposition of devices with selective magneticmonopole mobility.
Adrenergic Alpha-2 Receptor Antagonists Regulate Noise–induced Metabolic and Cognitive Changes in Rats
Authors: Manukyan Ashkhen , Hunanyan Lilit , Grigoryan Artem , Harutyunyan Hayk , Sukiasyan Lilit , Melkonyan Magdalina
Published: December 2020

Background: Noise is a modern life wide-spread stressor produced by urban traffic and the industrial environment. The noise stress causes central nervous system’s dysfunction and neurotransmission impairment in the brain, as well as changes the hormones levels resulting in psychological and behavioral problems. Underscoring the chronic stress implications, this investigation was to study the level of inositol triphosphate (IP3) in the mitochondrial fraction of the brain (MFB), and α-Tocopherol (α-T) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the plasma and erythrocytes’ membrane (EM). At the same time, the behavioral characteristics of experimental animals, and the influence of α2-adrenoblockers to evident their modulating effect during noise exposure were studied. Results: The obtained results imply increase of plasma and erythrocytes’ membrane MDA content and decrease in IP3 and α-T and impacted cognitive functions. Conclusion: The use of α2-adrenoblockers to the noise-exposed animals by the specific tests revealed a regulatory effect on the noise time-dependent delay in behavioral activity manifested by disorientation, and the spatial memory deficit. Reduction of the noise impact by α2-adrenoblockers was expressed by less level of MDA and increased level of IP3 and α-T in the plasma and EM, in the 3rd and the 4th groups.
Epidemiology of Multidrug-resistant Bacteria Isolated from Hospitalized Patients in a Regional Central Hospital in China
Authors: Zhang Jixun , Li Rui , Liu Zhenzhong , Wang Chao
Published: December 2020

Objectives: Considering the dynamic changes of MDR, we did an up-to-date study and analyzed the impact of MDR on the outcome of patients. Design: Collected MDR isolated from hospitalized patients between June 2018 and May 2020 and performed retrospective analysis. Setting: This study was conducted in a public regional central hospital in China.Patients: 1156 patients with MDR infections.Results: Total 1291 MDRS were isolated, intensive care unit (ICU) accounted for 32.3% as the most. The main samples were sputum (75.1%) and 89.6% MDR were Gram-negative. The most common MDR were Acinetobacter baumannii, carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ESBL-producing E. coli. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and ESBL-producing K.pneumoniae. 35.6% were nosocomial infections and 64.4% were community-acquired infections. There was a statistically significant difference in mortality between patients infected with MDR and those with non-MDR (7.4% [32/432] vs 2.6% [17/655]; P = 0.001). The Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae were mainly sensitive to tigecycline. The Pseudomonas aeruginosa was mainly sensitive to amikacin and levofloxacin. More than 80% of the Escherichia coli were sensitive to tigecycline and carbapenems. More than 90% of MRSA were sensitive to vancomycin, linezolid, and quinoprptin / daptoptin.Conclusions: The MDRS are mainly gram-negative bacteria. ICU contributes most MDR and pulmonary infection is the main origin of MDR. MDR infection is an independent risk factor for death. ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, especially carbapenemase producing Enterobacteriaceae, should be paid more attention. This study is helpful to understand the distribution of MDR in hospital and the extent of antibiotic resistance.
Association Between Blood Gas Within 1week of Life and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Preterm Infants With Less Than 32 Gestational Weeks
Authors: Han Xiaoya , Miao Xiaolin , Guo Limin , Li Na , Zhang Cun , Cui Shudong
Published: December 2020

Objective: This study tested wether preterm infants of ＜32 gestational weeks (GWs) with a blood gas derangement within 7days of life are at increased risk for moderate and severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Method: 236 preterm infants with ＜32 GWs from January of 2017 to December of 2019 were included in this study. First, univariate analysing determined wether there existed associations between BPD (moderate and severe) and blood gas values, clinical characteristics, interventions, daily given liquid and eneregy within 7days of life. Then multivarariate regession analysis was performed to know wether there were relationships between BPD (moderate and severe) and risk factors between which and BPD (moderate and severe) univariate analysing showed that P value was less than 0.1. Results: From univariate analysing, we found that PaO2, PaCO2 and HCO3 in 7th day of life, cesarean section (OR=0.508, 95%CI:0.275-0.94), getational age (GA, OR=0.163, 95%CI:0.077-0.344), birth weight (BW, OR=0.122, 95%CI:0.054-0.273), PDA (OR=2.839, 95%CI:1.1463-5.508), early onset infection (OR=3.00, 95%CI:1.483-6.069), and mechanical ventilation (MV, OR=4.562, 95%CI:2.405-8.653) were significantly associated with moderate and severe BPD. Because there existed close relationship between GA and BW (R=0.642, P=0.000) and BW dispersion was big in this group, we excluded BW in multivariate analysing. From multivariate analysing, besides GA (Exp (B)=0.176, 95%CI:0.08-0.389) , MV (Exp (B)=3.515, 95%CI:1.746-7.076), PaO2 (Exp (B)=0.468, 95%CI:0.226-0.969) in 7th day of life was the independent risk factor for moderate and severe BPD in the preterm infants of ＜32 GWs.Conclusion: Preterm infants of ＜32GWs with blood gas derangements within 7days of life could be at risk of moderate and severe BPD.
Health-related benefits and adverse events associated with yoga classes among subjects that are healthy, in poor health, or with chronic diseases.
Authors: Oka Takakazu
Published: December 2020

Background: Our previous study demonstrated that 42% of yoga class participants in Japan had chronic diseases that required medication. This raises the question as to whether those with chronic diseases could benefit from practicing yoga or if they are at higher risk for specific adverse events compared to healthy individuals receiving the same instruction. Methods: To address these questions, 328 adults who started practicing yoga for the first time were asked to complete the Profile of Mood States (POMS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 8, standard version (SF-8TM) and to record any adverse events on the first day of the yoga class and again three months later. The participants consisted of three groups: a healthy (H) group (n=70), a poor health (PH) group (n=117), and a chronic disease (CD) group (n=141). The severity of subjective symptoms was also compared between the pre- and post-intervention period in the PH and CD groups.Results: Typically, yoga classes were held once a week for 60-90 min. The programs included asanas, pranayamas, meditation, isometric yoga and sukshma vyayama. In the PH and CD groups, the POMS tension-anxiety and fatigue scores decreased and the vigor score increased significantly after the first class. Furthermore, PSS scores decreased and the SF-8TM scores increased significantly three months later. The severity of subjective symptoms such as easy fatigability, shoulder stiffness, and insomnia also decreased over three months. Individuals in these groups experienced more frequent adverse events than those in the H group. The PH and CD groups also experienced a greater variety of symptoms, including psychological ones, not reported by the H group. Adverse events were not so serious that subjects stopped practicing yoga during the class. About 60% of all participants were highly satisfied with participating in yoga classes.Conclusions: If yoga classes are conducted with attention to possible adverse events, yoga practice in a studio may have beneficial effects for people with functional somatic symptoms and chronic diseases, as well as healthy subjects. These benefits include reductions in perceived stress and uncomfortable symptoms as well as improved mood and quality of life.
Effect of Youthful Blood Environment and Its Key Factor SCF on Renal Interstitial Fibrosis in Elderly Mice
Authors: Huang Qi , Liu Dong , Cui Shaoyuan , Yin Zhong , Huang Zan , Zhang Yinping , Cai Guangyan , Chen Xiangmei , Sun Xuefeng
Published: December 2020

Background: youthful blood environment was shown to decelerate the aging process of kidney and to attenuate senile renal fibrosis in a young-old parabiotic animal model; in addition, we identified a stem cell factor (SCF) that is closely linked with the process. To further investigate the effect of youthful blood environment on renal interstitial fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms, we bred SCF receptor c-Kit gene loss-of-function Wps/Wps mice and established a combination mice model that was subjected to unilateral ureteral obstructive (UUO) and parabiotic surgeries.Methods: Parabiotic mice were divided into isochronic parabiotic (young-young, Y-IP and old-old, O-IP) and heterochronic parabiotic (young-old, HP) groups. UUO surgery was performed in one of the parabiotic pairs in the IP group (Y-IPuuo and O-IPuuo) and in the elderly mice in the HP group (O-HPuuo). In order to study the role of SCF/c-kit on renal interstitial fibrosis, UUO surgery was performed in wildtype (WT) and Wps/Wps mice. Results: Fourteen days after UUO surgery, the kidney interstitial fibrosis area, kidney function, and the expressions of SCF/c-Kit, pNF-κB, and fibrosis-related proteins in the O-HPuuo group were significantly lower than those in the Ouuo and O-IPuuo groups. Compared with wildtype UUO mice, the expressions of pNF-κB and fibrosis-related proteins, kidney interstitial fibrosis area, and the kidney function were all significantly decreased in Wps/Wps UUO mice.Conclusions: Youthful blood environment downregulated the expressions of SCF/c-Kit in elderly UUO mice, and ameliorated UUO-induced kidney fibrosis and function loss, which may be mediated via the NF-κB pathway.
Effectiveness of Elbasvir and Grazoprevir Combination and 1-year Follow-up Hepatic Function for HCV Genotype 1b Infection: Results From a Chinese Real-world Cohort.
Authors: Liang Jing , Zhang Yaping , Liu Fang , Xia Huan , Lv Hongmin , Xiang Huiling , Yang Yankai , Li Yan , Li Tinghong , Liu Lei , Lu Chengzhen , Wang Fengmei , Han Tao
Published: December 2020

Background: The treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) has entered the interferon-free era since the approval of all-oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy in China. Twelve weeks of Elbasvir and Grazoprevir (EBR/GZR) has been demonstrated to be highly effective and well tolerated in phase III registration trials in Asia. However, real-world data on this regimen are lacking in mainland China. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of EBR/GZR and hepatic function during 1-year follow-up in real-world clinical practice with genotype 1b HCV infection.Methods: A prospective, multicenter, non-interventional cohort study was conducted in Tianjin Third Central Hospital and Tianjin Second People's Hospital of China. All patients diagnosed with HCV-1b infection and treated with EBR/GZR for 12 weeks were included. The sustained virological response (SVR) rate obtained 12 weeks posttreatment (SVR12) and week 48 posttreatment (SVR48), the liver function and safety were also evaluated in patients who received EBR/GZR.Results: A total of 251 patients were enrolled, 215 of whom completed the 12-week treatment and 107 completed the 48-week follow-up after treatment. 47 patients (21.9%) had compensatory cirrhosis. The overall rates at the end of treatment (EOT), SVR12 and SVR48 were 100%, 99.5% and 99.1%, respectively. Two cirrhosis patients relapsed at 12 weeks and 48 weeks posttreatment respectively. At 48 weeks posttreatment, the normalization rate of ALT and AST were increased significantly than that of baseline (97.2% and 95.3% vs 59.5% and 61.4%, P<0.01). The incidence of any adverse reactions was 18.1%, while most reactions were mild in severity. Conclusion: In a real-world cohort, treatment with EBR/GZR in Chinese patients with genotype 1b HCV infection appears to be well tolerated and achieves high SVR12 and SVR48 rates.Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR1900023747. Registered 10 June 2019, Retrospectively registered. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=39926
Evaluation of the combination of Rapid Diagnostic Tests and microscopy for imported malaria surveillance in Anhui province, China
Authors: Li Weidong , Zhang Xinzhou , Feng Jun , Zhang Tao , Xu Xian , Jiang Jingjing , Wang Shuqi , Lyu Xiaofeng , Li Shizhu , Lu Manman
Published: December 2020

Background

In the Anhui province, China, efforts to halt local malaria transmission were successful, with no endemic cases reported since 2014. Contrastingly, imported malaria cases are still being reported, indicating a disease reintroduction risk after years of eradication. To avoid this reintroduction, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) were combined with microscopy methods to strengthen malaria surveillance. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this surveillance strategy in a field setting.
Methods

We conducted a retrospective study using malaria surveillance data from January 2016 to June 2020. Epidemiological characteristics and diagnostic information were analysed using descriptive and comparative statistics. The diagnostic performance of the combined toolbox (RDTs plus microscopy) was evaluated based on its sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and Cohen’s kappa coefficient.
Results

The combined toolbox displayed a higher overall sensitivity for malaria cases than that of microscopy alone (93.74% vs 89.37%; χ2 = 6.09; p = 0.14). In contrast to its high sensitivity, the combined toolbox had a specificity of 69.66%. The species identification rates of the combined toolbox for P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, and P. malariae were 83.15%, 65.00%, 42.11%, and 40.00%, respectively.
Conclusions

The combination of microscopy and RDTs is an effective strategy for malaria surveillance, possibly detecting more P. falciparum infections than microscopy alone. However, the specificity and ability to identify species of the combined toolbox were not optimal. Thus, monitoring malaria cases in non-endemic areas may require employing more than one diagnostic tool in surveillance strategies. Moreover, further understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of different detection methods is necessary for applying optimum combinations in the field setting.
Middle and long-term outcomes of non-ring tricuspid annuloplasty in patients with mitral valve replacement
Authors: Qian Yongjun , Yuan Dou , Chen Liping , Li Tao , Ling Yunfei , Xiao Xijun
Published: December 2020

Objective

To evaluate the middle-period and long-term outcomes of one-stage non-ring TVP in patients with MVR.
Methods

427 patients who received one-stage mechanical MVR and non-ring TVP from January 2005 to January 2009 at Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of West China Hospital; After screening, 400 patients were finally recruited, who reexamined by UCG 10 years after surgery.and recorded UCG data.
Results

The patients were followed up for 10 years after surgery. Compared with the situation before surgery,RV(mm):21.47 ± 3.14 vs.22.37 ± 3.28,TAEDD(mm):32.18 ± 4.94 vs.35.88 ± 4.07 and TESD(mm):25.90 ± 4.90 vs.28.12 ± 4.12 decreased significantly at 5 years after surgery (P < 0.05). However, RA(mm):49.35 ± 13.05 vs. 50.69 ± 12.90 did not change significantly (P > 0.05). LVEF (%): 61.54 ± 8.23 vs. 57.38 ± 8.87 also increased significantly after surgery (P < 0.05). Compared with the preoperative situation, at 10 years after surgery, RA(mm) was 56.90 ± 12.90, RV (mm) 23.12 ± 4.58, TESD (mm) 28.80 ± 5.14 and LVEF (%) 59.81 ± 8.95, all of which increased significantly (P < 0.05); however, TEDD (mm) was 35.41 ± 5.11, which did not change significantly (P > 0.05). Compared with preoperative situation, the ratios of severity of TR at 5 and 10 years after surgery improved significantly (P < 0.05).
Conclusion

It is reasonable to use the tricuspid annular diameter in patients with mitral valve disease as an indication for one-stage TVP. The one-stage non-ring TVP is conducive to preventing aggravation of TR, so as to achieve a better long-term outcome. Besides, oral diuretics are recommended to treat TR after surgery for such patients.