bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Sustained Release of Chlorogenic Acid from Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Poly(γ-glutamic Acid) Blends Electrospun Mats
Authors: Sandova-Herrera I. E. , Ledezma-Pérez A. , De-León A. , Alvaro-Canche C. , Torres-Lubian R. , Romero-García J.
Published: September 2020

Background: Diabetic foot is a condition that is caused by high levels of glucose in the blood. Poly (γ-glutamic acid) [γ-PGA]/polyvinyl alcohol [PVA] electrospun biopolymers and their use in the release of chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a promising system, thanks to their biocompatibility and the use of (CGA) in the treatment of certain symptoms of diabetic conditions. The use of CGA was reported in 2005 as a capable substance in the treatment of lesions caused by diabetic foot ulcers, thanks to the fact that it has no toxic effects.Methods: In this work, was carried out the bio-synthesis of γ-PGA producing by the Bacillus liqueniformis ATCC-9945a. This material was utilized in the preparation of electrospun nanofibers with solutions of polyvinyl alcohol [PVA] to 10% p/v mixed with γ-PGA to 5 and 10% p/v. These solutions were loaded with chlorogenic acid (CGA) like an active hypoglycemic agent.Results: The morphological analysis shows a size decrease for the fiber with PVA/ γ -PGA, compared to PVA nanofibers; this could be attributed to the hydrogen bonding interactions between γ-PGA and PVA. The use of glutaraldehyde vapors permit the nanofibers crosslinking to maintain a stable structure and allows the CGA release. The in vitro release analysis shows that the PVA membranes reach 28% of delivery after the first 24 hours. Instead of, for the nanofiber mat with PVA blended with γ-PGA at 5% goes up to 57% and nanofiber PVA/γ-PGA at 10% reach to 66% in the same time, the rate constant for release kinetics shows that PVA/γ-PGA at 5% it's higher than the others, being the first in reach the saturation.Conclusions: Biodegradable polymer meshes were fabricated by electrospinning of PVA and PVA/γ-PGA polymer and loaded with CGA. The presence of γ-PGA into PVA solutions increases the in vitro drug release from electrospun fiber mats. The maximal release of CGA was reached at 10% of γ-PGA introduced in the PVA solution, which was 82% release from the electrospun polymer fiber mats. Finally, the use of Peppas and Weibull models indicates the released kinetics of CGA from PVA, PVA/γ-PGA 5, and PVA/γ-PGA 10 electrospun fiber mats are driven by diffusion mechanism.
Reexamining Ophthalmic Drugs, Safety and Tolerability in Phase 1 Clinical Trials
Authors: Villegas Patricia del Carmen Muñoz , Navarro-Sánchez Andrea Anaid , Sánchez-Ríos Alejandra , Olvera-Montaño Oscar , Baiza-Durán Leopoldo Martin
Published: September 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and tolerability profile of drugs used for treating common eye disorders when applied to normal healthy volunteers (NHV) as explored in phase 1 trials. Methods: A total of 166 NHV were identified in six phase 1 trials. These included the exposure to lubricant (n=88), hypotensive (n=48) or antibiotic (n=30) ophthalmic drugs, examined in a retrospective analysis. The primary endpoints were visual comfort, assessed by the ocular comfort index (OCI); and safety, evaluated through laboratory evaluations, vital signs, visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), lissamine green and fluorescein staining, conjunctival hyperemia, chemosis, and the incidence of adverse events (AE). Other measured parameters included discomfort (assessed by burning, itching and foreign body sensation) and conjunctival impression cytology. Results: Compared to baseline, 72.3%, 39.6% and 66.7% of participants (for lubricant, hypotensive and antibiotic treatments, respectively), improved their OCI score by their final visit (p=0.001). As expected for NHV, laboratory evaluations and vital signs were within normal ranges in 88% of NHV, with no significant differences observed between treatments. Similar results were found for VA, corneal and conjunctival staining and chemosis. IOP decreased significantly in the hypotensive agents group (p=0.001), trace to mild hyperemia was reported in 20.7%, 26% and 5.2% of NHV in each group (p=0.006). Additionally, lubricant and hypotensive investigational drugs (ID) had a lower risk of incidence of AE than approved drugs (AD) of these groups (OR 0.856, 95% CI [0.365, 1.999], and OR 0.636, 95% CI [0.096, 4.195], respectively). Meanwhile, on antibiotic drugs the risk for ID related AE was higher (OR 1.313, 95% CI [0.309, 5.583]). Conclusions: Phase 1 trials are important in order to ensure the safety and tolerability of ophthalmic medications. This study demonstrates that NHV do not face a significant risk of harm in these studies, since 98% of the reported AE were mild, and all AE were resolved by the end of the study in which they appeared. Furthermore, it was also demonstrated that the instillation of ID is as safe and tolerable as that of AD in NHV.Trial registration: The studies were registered at clinicaltrials.gov as follows: NCT04081610, NCT03524157, NCT03520348, NCT03966365, NCT03965052 and, NCT03519516.
Giant Intrapericardial Thymic Carcinoma Invading Superior Vena Cava and Right Atrium: A Case Report
Authors: Zhu Kai , Chen Weijie , Liu Guobing , Zhao Yun , Zhang Hongqiang , Pan Sun , Wang Chunsheng
Published: September 2020

Background: Thymic carcinoma is an epithelial malignant tumour that rarely presents in the pericardial cavity.Case presentation: Herein, we describe a patient who suffered giant intrapericardial mass with infiltration of the superior vena cava (SVC) and right atrium (RA). The mass was evaluated by multimodality imaging. Surgeons performed en bloc resection of mass and reconstruction of SVC and RA. Pathological results supported a diagnosis of thymic carcinoma.Conclusions: To our knowledge, this was the largest pericardial thymic carcinoma ever to be reported in the literature. This case demonstrates the utility of multimodality imaging in evaluating the pericardial mass and the validity of surgery for the giant pericardial thymic carcinoma.
Comparison of the Impact of Propofol and Sevoflurane on Early Postoperative Recovery in Living Donors After Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Han Sangbin , Park Jaesik , Hong Sang Hyun , Lim Soojin , Park Yong Hyun , Chae Min Suk
Published: September 2020

Background: Enhancing postoperative recovery of the donor is important to encourage living kidney donation. We investigated the effects of anesthetic agents (intravenous [IV] propofol versus inhaled [IH] sevoflurane) on the quality of early recovery of healthy living kidney donors after hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy (HALN) under analgesic intrathecal morphine injection. Methods: This single-center, prospective randomized controlled study enrolled 80 living donors undergoing HALN from October 2019 to June 2020 at Seoul St. Mary’s hospital. Donors were randomly assigned to the IV propofol group or IH sevoflurane group. To measure the quality of recovery, we used the Korean version of the Quality of Recovery-40 questionnaire (QoR-40K) on postoperative day (POD) 1, and ambulation (success rate, number of footsteps) 6–12 hours after surgery and on POD 1. The pain score for the wound site, IV opioid requirement, postoperative complications including incidence of nausea/vomiting, length of in-hospital stay were also assessed.Results: The global QoR-40K score and all subscale scores (physical comfort, emotional state, physical independence, psychological support, and pain) were significantly higher in the IV propofol group than in the IH sevoflurane group. The numbers of footsteps at all timepoints were also higher in the IV propofol group. The donors in the IV propofol group had a lower incidence of nausea/vomiting, and a shorter hospitalization period.Conclusions: Total IV anesthesia with propofol led to better early postoperative recovery than that associated with IH sevoflurane.Trial registration: Clinical Research Information Service, Republic of Korea (approval number: KCT0004351) on October 18, 2019.https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/search_result_st01_kren.jsp?seq=15768&sLeft=2<ype=my&rtype=my
Metabolic Syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: A post hoc analyses of the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial
Authors: Ferreira João Pedro , Verma Subodh , Fitchett David , Ofstad Anne Pernille , Lauer Sabine , Zwiener Isabella , George Jyothis , Wanner Christoph , Zinman Bernard , Inzucchi Silvio
Published: September 2020

Background
Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are at greater cardiovascular risk than those with T2D without MetS. In the current report we aim to study the characteristics, cardio-renal outcomes and the effect of empagliflozin in patients with MetS enrolled in the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial.
Methods
A total of 7020 patients with T2D and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease were treated with empagliflozin (10 mg or 25 mg) or placebo for a median of 3.1 years. The World Health Organization MetS criteria could be determined for 6985 (99.5%) patients. We assessed the association between baseline MetS and multiple cardio-renal endpoints using Cox regression models, and we studied the change in the individual component over time of the MetS using mixed effect models.
Results
MetS at baseline was present in 5740 (82%) patients; these were more often white and had more often albuminuria and heart failure, had lower eGFR and HDL-cholesterol, and higher blood pressure, body mass index, waist circumference, and triglycerides. In the placebo group, patients with MetS had a higher risk of all outcomes including cardiovascular death: HR = 1.73 (95%CI = 1.01–2.98), heart failure hospitalization: HR = 2.64 (95%CI = 1.22, 5.72), and new or worsening nephropathy: HR = 3.11 (95%CI = 2.17–4.46). The beneficial effect of empagliflozin was consistent on all cardio-renal outcomes regardless of presence of MetS.
Conclusions
A large proportion of the EMPA-REG OUTCOME population fulfills the criteria for MetS. Those with MetS had increased risk of adverse cardio-renal outcomes. Compared with placebo, empagliflozin improved cardio-renal outcomes in patients with and without MetS.
Clinical Trial Registration:
URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT 01131676.
Serum alkaline phosphatase levels and the risk of new-onset diabetes in hypertensive adults
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Zhou Chun , Li Jianping , Zhang Yan , Xie Di , Liang Min , Wang Binyan , Song Yun , Wang Xiaobin , Huo Yong , Hou Fan Fan , Xu Xiping , Qin Xianhui
Published: September 2020

Background: The association between alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and incident diabetes remains uncertain. Our study aimed to investigate the prospective relation of serum ALP with the risk of new-onset diabetes, and explore possible effect modifiers, in hypertensive adults. Methods: A total 14,393 hypertensive patients with available ALP measurements and without diabetes and liver disease at baseline were included from the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT). The primary outcome was new-onset diabetes, defined as physician-diagnosed diabetes or use of glucose-lowering drugs during follow-up, or fasting glucose ≥7.0mmol/L at the exit visit. The secondary study outcome was new-onset impaired fasting glucose (IFG), defined as FG <6.1mmol/L at baseline and ≥6.1 but <7.0mmol/L at the exit visit.Results: Over a median of 4.5 years follow-up, 1,549 (10.8%) participants developed diabetes. Overall, there was a positive relation of serum ALP and the risk of new-onset diabetes (per SD increment, adjusted OR, 1.07; 95%CI: 1.01, 1.14) and new-onset IFG (per SD increment, adjusted OR, 1.07; 95%CI: 1.02, 1.14). Moreover, a stronger positive association between baseline ALP (per SD increment) with new-onset diabetes was found in participants with total homocysteine (tHcy) <10μmol/L (adjusted OR, 1.24; 95%CI: 1.10, 1.40 vs. ≥10μmol/L: adjusted OR, 1.03; 95%CI: 0.96, 1.10; P-interaction=0.007) or FG ≥5.9mmol/L (adjusted OR, 1.16; 95%CI: 1.07, 1.27 vs. <5.9mmol/L: adjusted OR, 1.00; 95%CI: 0.93, 1.08; P-interaction =0.009)Conclusions: In this non-diabetic, hypertensive population, higher serum ALP was significantly associated with the increased risk of new-onset diabetes, especially in those with lower tHcy or higher FG levels.Clinical Trial Registration-URL: Trial registration: NCT00794885 (clinicaltrials.gov). Retrospectively registered November 20, 2008.
Learning From COVID-19: A Systems Approach for Public Health Governance
Authors: Liu Jieling , Wu Yurong , Huang Cunrui
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 spread very quickly worldwide, which has resulted in a global pandemic. All countries in the world have taken measures for the purpose of preventing and controlling the epidemic. China for example, has control the spread effectively, while the Unite States, Brazil and India are still striving to cope with the increasing COVID-19 confirmed cases. The epidemic has impacted the whole world, also revealing quite a lot problems of urban health governance in different countries. This commentary reviews the pandemic response measures in selected countries such as China, Italy, America, Brail and India. On the basis of critical reflection on the problems incurred in each country's pandemic response, we further provide a theoretical framework to reconceptualise public health as multiple types of economic goods. We couple this reconceptualisation with the systems approach to urban health and wellbeing to offer new thinking on the governance of public health. Finally, we propose suggestions for better, preventative and comprehensive epidemic prevention and public health governance.
The Relationship Between Leptin Levels and CPAP Treatment: A Cluster Analysis
Authors: Kozu Yutaka , Hirata Akifumi , Morita Hiroyuki , Kurosawa Yusuke , Yamada Shiho , Fukuda Asami , Mari Hikichi , Okamoto Shinichi , Shikano Sotaro , Hisato Hiranuma , Akahoshi Toshiki , Maruoka Shuichiro , Gon Yasuhiro
Published: September 2020

Background: Leptin is an appetite-suppressing hormone, released by adipose tissues, that plays an important role in severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). However, it is unclear whether leptin levels are a useful OSAS biomarker. This study assessed the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment for OSAS according to leptin levels using a cluster classification based on OSAS clinical features. Methods: Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed on 97 patients with OSAS who had been diagnosed via polysomnography. We also evaluated the adherence of CPAP data after 6 months of CPAP administration. Results: Cluster 1 (49 subjects, 50.5%) had severe OSAS, were obese, and had normal leptin levels. Cluster 2 (6 subjects, 6.2%) had the most severe OSAS, were obese, normal leptin levels, and high adiponectin levels. Cluster 3 (11 subjects, 11.3%) had the most severe OSAS, severe obesity, and the highest leptin levels. Cluster 4 (31 subjects, 32%) had the most severe OSAS, severe obesity, and high leptin levels. After CPAP treatment, EDS improved in all clusters. In Clusters 3 and 4, leptin levels were significantly reduced after treatment. Conclusions: To establish if leptin can be a biomarker for CPAP treatment, it is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of lipid metabolism, leptin, and ventilatory responses in OSAS patients, for which further studies are necessary.
Prevalence Estimates of COVID-19 by Web Survey Compared to Inadequate Testing
Authors: Ku David N , Ku Ben , Leong Traci , Liu Zixiang
Published: September 2020

Background: Current prevalence of COVID-19 drives many policy decisions, but is hampered by ambiguities in testing and reporting. We propose an alternative method for estimating community prevalence that is inexpensive and timely. We test the Hypothesis that the survey sampling provides a quantitative prevalence that is similar to widespread genomic or serological testing. Methods: We have built a simple, web-based survey of signs and symptoms for COVID-19 based on six questions. No personally identifiable information is collected to maintain privacy. Sampling can be directed to a population of interest such as a company, or broadcast widely to get geographic sampling. Data reporting can be real-time and plotted onto zipcode maps. Rates of prevalence were calculated from presumed COVID cases and respondents, with confidence intervals based on the Blaker method.Results: The website was created quickly, and survey results were quantitatively useful after only a few days. Analyzing 3161 cases from CountCOVID.org, we found a community prevalence of 7% in Georgia that was much greater than the reported confirmed cases. Our prevalence estimate of 21% in New York City was similar to the reported 19.6% by surveillance antibody serotesting. Our estimates are validated by five other community surveillance studies using genomic or antibody testing.Conclusions: Prevalence and incidence of COVID-19 symptoms in the community can be estimated by a crowd-sourced website at considerably less expense than widespread testing.
Construction of a risk prediction model for subsequent bloodstream infection in intestinal carriers of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae: a retrospective study in hematology department and intensive care unit
Authors: Wang Yue , Lin Qun , Chen Ju Zhong , Hou Yan Hong , Shen Na , Wang Feng , Sun Ziyong
Published: September 2020

Background
To establish a risk prediction model for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) bloodstream infection (BSI) in intestinal carriers.
Methods
CRE screenings were performed every two weeks in hematology department and intensive care unit (ICU). Patients with positive CRE rectal swab screening were identified using electronic healthcare records from 15 May 2018 to 31 December 2019. All CRE strains were collected and identified. Carriers who developed CRE BSI were compared with those who did not develop CRE infection. The control group 1:1 stratified randomly matched the case group. Univariate logistic analysis, multivariate logistic analysis and stepwise regression analysis were carried out.
Results
A total of 42 cases were included. Multivariate analysis showed that gastrointestinal injury (OR 86.82, 95%CI 2.58-2916.59, P = 0.013), tigecycline exposure (OR 14.99, 95%CI 1.82-123.74 P = 0.012) and carbapenem resistance score (OR 11.24, 95% CI 1.81–69.70, P = 0.009) were independent risk factors for CRE BSI in intestinal carriers (P < 0.05). They were included in the Logistic regression model to predict BSI. According to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the cut-off value of the model was 0.72, and the sensitivity, specificity and area under the curve (AUC) were 90.5%, 85.7% and 0.92, respectively.
Conclusions
The risk prediction model based on gastrointestinal injury, tigecycline exposure and carbapenem resistance score of colonizing strain can effectively predict CRE BSI in patients with CRE colonization. Early CRE screening and detection for inpatients in key departments may early warning and reduce the risk of nosocomial infection of CRE.
Effect of sildenafil citrate in women undergoing assisted reproduction: a meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials
Authors: Rouholamin Safoura , Sepidarkish Mahdi , Razavi Maryam , Nabati Azar , Maroufizadeh Saman , Rezaeinejad Mahroo
Published: September 2020

Background
to evaluate whether the sildenafil citrate in women undergoing assisted reproduction ameliorate the clinical outcomes.
Methods
We performed a comprehensive literature search for published randomized controlled trials (RCT) in Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to 25 Jun 2020. Literature screening, selection of relevant studies, assessment risk of bias and data extraction was conducted independently by two reviewers. We combined study data using the random-effects model.
Results
Sixteen trials including 1,589 women (771 cases and 818 controls) were included in meta-analysis. Pooling results from five trials, which compared clinical pregnancy between sildenafil citrate and placebo, showed a significantly higher probability of clinical pregnancy in sildenafil citrate group (RR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.05, 2.36, I2 = 0%). The probability of clinical pregnancy was significantly higher in women who received the combination of sildenafil citrate and clomiphene citrate compared with clomiphene citrate alone (RR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.53, I2 = 0%). Following the intervention, clinical pregnancy significantly increased in women who received the combination of estradiol valerate and sildenafil citrate compared to estradiol valerate (RR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.05, 2.43, I2 = 0%). Following the intervention, endometrial thickness (ET) increased in women who received sildenafil citrate compared to women who received placebo (SMD: 1.32, 95% CI: 0.30, 2.34, I2 = 92.41%). The mean of ET was significantly higher in women who received the combination of sildenafil citrate and clomiphene citrate compared to women who received clomiphene citrate (SMD: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.49, 1.36).
Conclusion
Our systematic review and meta-analysis showed that luteal supplementation of sildenafil citrate (oral or vaginal), alone or adjuvant therapy can be used for improving the EM and clinical pregnancy rate in women undergoing assisted reproduction. However, given the methodological limitations the current evidence does not support its use in clinical practice yet.
Rapid and complete inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 by ultraviolet-C irradiation
Authors: Storm Nadia , McKay Lindsay , Downs Sierra , Johnson Rebacca , Birru Dagnachew , de Samber Marc , Willaert Walter , Cennini Giovanni , Griffiths Anthony
Published: September 2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has devastated global public health systems and economies, with over 23 million people infected, millions of jobs and businesses lost, and more than 800 000 deaths recorded to date. Contact with surfaces contaminated with droplets generated by infected persons through exhaling, talking, coughing and sneezing is a major driver of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, with the virus being able to survive on surfaces for extended periods of time. To interrupt these chains of transmission, there is an urgent need for devices that can be deployed to inactivate the virus on both recently and existing contaminated surfaces. Here, we describe the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 in both wet and dry format using radiation generated by a commercially available Signify ultraviolet (UV)-C light source at 254 nm. We show that for contaminated surfaces, only seconds of exposure is required for complete inactivation, allowing for easy implementation in decontamination workflows.
Correlation Between Nutritional Deficit and the Presence of Depressive Symptoms: Comparative Study Between Elderly Brazilians and Portuguese in Primary Health Care
Authors: Toscano Gislani Acásia da Silva , Cavalcante Anna Carolynna Vieira , Torres Neidjany Patrícia Lima , Miranda Jéssica Maria Arouca de , Dantas Bruno Araújo da Silva , Jacinto Maria Angélica Gomes , Torres Sandra Maria da Solidade Gomes Simões de Oliveira , Nobre Thaiza Teixeira Xavier , Maia Eulália Maria Chaves , Mendes Felismina Rosa Parreira , Miranda Francisco Arnoldo Nunes de , Torres Gilson de Vasconcelos
Published: September 2020

Background: Among the countless diseases that affect the world population, malnutrition has stood out in several social and demographic contexts; among them, there has been an exponential progression in elderly people, a population group that presents a strong tendency to develop depression and malnutrition. Data from the World Health Organization show that the worldwide prevalence of depressive disorders among elderly people is in the range of 10 to 20%. Similarly, the prevalence of depression, in turn, combined with chronic diseases, accounts for 50% of premature mortality.Objective: To compare the nutritional status and the level of depressive symptoms and to evaluate the correlation between both aspects in Brazilian and Portuguese elderly people assisted in Primary Health Care (PHC).Methods: A cross-sectional, comparative study with a quantitative approach conducted among PHC elderly people in Brazil and Portugal. The sociodemographic and health questionnaire, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Geriatric Depression scale (GDS-15) and Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA) were used.Results: We included 160 participants (110 Brazilians and 50 Portuguese) in the study. In this sample, 81.9% of participants had a risk of malnutrition or malnutrition and 45.0% of participants had mild depressive symptoms. There was a significant association and correlation in Brazil with the presence of a risk of malnutrition and mild symptoms of depression. Portugal also demonstrated a significant association, however, for the chance of not presenting alterations.Conclusion: Our research showed that the risk of malnutrition or the presence of malnutrition was associated with the presence of depressive symptoms in the studied sample. In the intergroup comparison, among Brazilians, those at risk of malnutrition were more likely to have changes associated with depression, while for participants in Portugal, the odds ratio tended to show no changes, as the majority were individuals without nutritional or depressive demands. Screening and prevention measures should be emphasized in PHC to avoid the progression of symptoms in order to refer patients with medium and high complexity since this segment of the public is susceptible to malnutrition and depression.
Electricity Generation and Pollutants Removal of Landfill Leachate by Osmotic Microbial Fuel Cells with Different Forward Osmosis Membranes
Authors: Jiang Nan , Huang Li , Cai Teng , Song Jialing , Zheng Shengyang , Guo Jili , Kong Zhuang , Manhong Huang
Published: September 2020

In this study, thin-film composite with embedded polyester screen (TFC-ES), cellulose triacetate with a cast nonwoven (CTA-NW) and cellulose triacetate with embedded polyester screen (CTA-ES) were examined as the intermediate membranes in osmotic microbial fuel cells (OsMFCs). The reactors were fed with actual landfill leachate and the performance was studied in two operation modes: active layer facing draw solution (AL-DS) and active layer facing feed solution (AL-FS). The OsMFC with CTA-ES exhibited the best energy generation (maximum power density: 0.44 W•m-2) and pollutant removal efficiency (ammonia nitrogen: 70.12 ± 0.28%, total nitrogen: 74.04 ± 0.33%) in the AL-FS mode, which could be ascribed to the lowest internal resistance (236.75 ohm) and highest microbial richness. Pseudomonas was the highest proportion of microbial in OsMFCs. The results of this study has demonstrated the potential of OsMFCs for landfill leachate treatment.
A Systematic Review of the Correlation Between Web-based Query and Outbreak of Emerging Infectious Diseases and Meta-analysis of Influenza-like Illnesses
Authors: Nguyen-Tran Minh-Duc , Nguyen-Tran Nu-Vuong , Phuc Nguyen Nhu Do , Tran Huu Loc Thai , Zayan Ahmad Helmy , Abdelrahman Ahmed Saber , Vu Thao Thanh , Nguyen Khuong An Luu , Nguyen Trang Thi , Vo Y Nhi Le , Chu Nhat Minh Nguyen , Tran Quynh Thuy Huong , Pham My Hoan , Vu Hai Ngoc , Huy Nguyen Tien
Published: September 2020

Background: Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) are among the widespread everchanging threats to public health. Web-based queries using information gathered from social media can enhance global syndromic surveillance to trace EIDs activity. This systematic review aimed to investigate the correlation of web-based queries to outbreak of EIDs. Methods: Nine electronic databases were systematically searched and updated in August 2018 including; PubMed, Virtual Health Library (VHL), WHO Global Health Library (GHL), Scopus, ISI, Google Scholar, POPLINE, and Systems for Information of Grey Literature in Europe (SIGLE), New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM Grey Literature Report). A prior protocol was registered at Prospero (CRD42016038104). In a total five included articles, 47 datasets were included for reviewing. The correlation was assessed through Spearman and Pearson tests using either google trends or number of tweets. Results: Meta-analysis of influenza-like illness data revealed that correlation was significant (0.784 (0.743-0.820, 0.964 (0.918-0.985) for both Spearman and Pearson tests respectively. Conclusions: Web-based surveillance systems could serve as a good method in predicting events of EIDs.
Does substrate colour affect the visual appearance of gilded medieval sculptures? Part II: Study of medieval gold leaf
Authors: Wu Qing , Döbeli Max , Lombardo Tiziana , Schmidt-Ott Katharina , Watts Benjamin , Nolting Frithjof , Ganz David
Published: September 2020

In the previous paper (Part I), the colorimetry and interferometric microscopy measurements on modern gold leaf models have revealed that the visual appearance of a gilded surface, both burnished and unburnished, depends strongly on the substrate type, surface roughness and texture, but not on the colour of the substrate. In this second part, we investigate the materials compositions and technical specifications of medieval gold leaf through combining literature sources and materials analysis such as scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX) on samples taken from gilded artefacts. Our study shows that the late medieval gold leaf has a high purity of about 23.7 carat and has an average thickness of 160 nm (with a peak value of 138 nm), purer and thicker than the modern gold leaves studies in Part I. Supportive Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) measurements on gilded models confirms the accuracy and reliability of the SEM-EDX observations on the medieval gold leaf samples. We additionally present observations of a rarely recorded special variant of medieval gold leaf – “fine reinforced gold leaf”. Combined with the findings from Part I, we conclude that light penetrating the medieval gold leaf and reflected from the substrate could not be a significant, or even perceptible contribution to the visual appearance of the gilding. We argue that the misconception surrounding the correlation between the substrate colour and the gilded surface appearance can be attributed to the historical development of gilding and polychromy technologies.
Suppression of TCAB1 Expression Induced Cellular Senescence by Lessening Proteasomal Degradation of p21 in Cancer Cells
Authors: Niu Jing , Gao Rui-Qi , Cui Meng-Tian , Zhang Chen-Guang , Li Shen-Tao , Cheng Shan , Ding Wei
Published: September 2020

Background: TCAB1, a.k.a. WRAP53β or WDR79, is an important molecule for the maintenance of Cajal bodies and critically involved in telomere elongation and DNA repair. Upregulation of TCAB1 were discovered in a variety types of cancers. However, the function of TCAB1 in tumor cell senescence remains absent. Methods: The TCAB1 knockdown cell lines were constructed. The expression levels of TCAB1, p21, p16 and p53 were detected by qRT-PCR and western blotting. Staining of senescence-associated β-galactosidase was used to detect senescent cells. The ubiquitination of the p21 was analysed by immunoprecipitatation and in vivo ubiquitination assay. TCGA databases were employed to perform in silico analyses for the mRNA expression of TCAB1, p21, p16 and p53. Results: Here, we discovered that knockdown of TCAB1 induced rapid progression of cellular senescence in A549, H1299 and HeLa cells. In exploiting the mechanism underlining the role of TCAB1 on senescence, we found a significant increase of p21 at the protein levels upon TCAB1 depletion, whereas the p21 mRNA expression was not altered. We verified that TCAB1 knockdown was able to shunt p21 from proteasomal degradation by regulating the ubiquitination of p21. In rescue assays, it was demonstrated that decreasing the expression of p21 was able to attenuate the cellular senescence process induced by TCAB1 silencing. Conclusions: This study revealed the importance of TCAB1 for its biological functions in the regulation of cell senescence. Our results will be helpful to understand the mechanisms of senescence in cancer cells, which could provide clues for designing novel strategies for developing effective treatment regimens.
Predictive Value of A Novel lncRNA LINC02518 in Evaluating the Prognosis of Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cui Wei , Huang Jingzhi , Wang Ruiqi , Wang Yu , Chen Xiaoming , Shi Feng , Li Jiaping , Xu Rongde
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND: The potential of lncRNA in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has led to promising insights in therapeutic intervention. The clinical significance of LINC02518 in HCC is unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of a novel long non-coding RNA LINC02518 for the prognosis of patients with HCC. METHODS: Between December 2005 and November 2011, 125 HCC patients in training group and 75 HCC patients in validation group who underwent liver surgery were involved in our study. The LINC02518 expression of HCC and corresponding non-tumor liver tissues was detected by microarray and qRT-PCR. These HCC patients were divided into high and low LINC02518 expression groups based on the threshold of the receiver operating characteristic curve. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to determine the prognosis of HCC patients.RESULTS: LINC02518 expression was upregulated in paired tumor samples compared to that in corresponding non-tumor samples in two groups. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the levels of LINC02518 in the diagnosis of HCC was 0.66, 95% CI: 0.59–0.73. HCC patients with high LINC02518 expression had significantly worse tumor recurrence-free, metastasis-free, disease-free, and overall survival than those with low LINC02518 expression.CONCLUSIONS: LINC02518 is negatively correlated with the prognosis of HCC and provides a promising strategy for the treatment and prognosis of HCC.
Investigating Metalinguistic Written Corrective Feedback Focused on EFL Learners' Discourse Markers Accuracy in Mobile-mediated Context
Authors: Pourdana Natasha , Nour Payam , Yousefi Fariba
Published: September 2020

Among a growing body of research that examined the contradictory role of written corrective feedback (WCF) in development of L2 writing accuracy, this study investigated the possible impact of focused metalinguistic WCF on discourse markers (DMs) in writing performance of an intact group of 42 Iranian English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners over an eight-week period. In an authentic, situated, and personalized learning platform, giving and receiving WCF were made possible only through the mobile-mediated application of WhatsApp. Before participants wrote on selected elicitation topics, they had taken part in a 2004 version of Oxford Preliminary Test in order to be screened for their initial differences in writing performance. After receiving metalinguistic WCF on their scripts, participants were required to work on the coded feedback and try to eliminate the DM errors in their revised writing assignment. After collecting the scripts over an eight-week period, the content of written assignment was thematically analyzed using NVivo 21 Software for the additive, adversative, causal and temporal DMs, following Halliday and Hasan’s (1976) typology. In a convergent mixed-methods design, the content analysis of the qualitative data showed a larger distribution of additive DM than adversative, causal, and temporal DMs in all participants’ written scripts. Exploring the possible impact of metalinguistic WCF on improving the DMs accuracy, analysis of the frequency count data with (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) SPSS multivariate Chi-square test reported the fluctuating and unsystematic patterns of distribution for four types of DMs with no sign of significant long-term improvement in DMs accuracy after receiving metalinguistic WCF. These findings implied further research on practicing alternative WCF strategies focused on variety of error types in actual and virtual L2 writing environment.
Determinants of Modern Family Planning Methods in the Oromia, Amhara, and Somali Regions, Ethiopia: A Community-Based, Cross-Sectional Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Lee Hocheol , Kindane Eshetu Girma , Doh Young Ah , Nam Eun Woo
Published: September 2020

Background: In 2019, Ethiopia had a total fertility rate of 4.2 births per woman with the rates varying significantly across regions. The Federal Ministry of Health of Ethiopia announced “Ethiopia FP 2020” to address the high fertility rate, aiming to reduce it to 3.0 by 2020. This study aimed to identify the determinants of the use of modern family planning services in the Amhara, Oromia, and Somali regions.Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted, using quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data were subjected to binary logistic regression analyses. Participants included over 4,117 married men and women aged 15-65 years old.Results: Respondents in Oromia were 8.673 times more likely to have modern family planning methods than those in Somali. Participants in Amhara were 5.183 times more likely to have modern family planning methods than their Somali counterparts. Women, married respondents, and recipients of media messages were more likely to have family planning experience. Family planning discussions with Health Extension Workers and health professionals played a significant role in modern family planning. Conclusion: Establishing a family planning strategy that considers the sociocultural characteristics of each region might help address regional contexts. Everyone in Somali—especially husbands and religious leaders—must be educated in family planning and funds be made available to deploy advanced measures for the same.
CSF biomarker profiles in CNS infection associated with HSV and VZV mimic pattern in Alzheimer’s disease.
Authors: Shinomoto Makiko , KASAI TAKASHI , Tatebe Harutsugu , Kitani-Morii Fukiko , Ohmichi Takuma , Fujino Yuzo , Allsop David , Mizuno Toshiki , Tokuda Takahiko
Published: September 2020

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) infections have been reported to have a certain etiological relevance to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In particular, herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) infections has been reported as risk factors for AD. The aim of this study was to determine whether or not AD-related biomarkers were changed in patients with HSV or VZV CNS infections.Methods: Nine patients with HSV infection of the CNS, eight patients with VZV complicated by CNS involvement, and eighteen age-matched controls were enrolled. Amyloid β (Aβ)1-42, Aβ1-40, total-tau (t-tau), tau phosphorylated at threonine 181 (p-tau), neurofilament light chain (NfL), phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain (p-NfH), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (sTREM2) in were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and NfL in serum.Results: Compared with the control group, CSF Aβ1-42, Aβ1-40, and the Aβ1-42/ Aβ1-40 ratio were significantly decreased, and CSF t-tau, p-tau, sTREM2, and GFAP were significantly increased in the HSV and VZV combined group, in which biomarker changes were similar to those reported in AD. CSF NfL levels measured on admission were significantly correlated with the disease severity and a poor outcome after age adjustment. Serum NfL on admission was also associated with disease severity after age adjustment.Conclusions: The fact that the biomarker profile in patients with CNS HSV and VZV infections mimicked that in AD patients should be paid attention to as a potential confounding factor in CSF biomarker-based diagnosis of AD, and it suggests an etiological similarity between herpetic virus infection and AD. The CSF NfL concentration on admission may be useful as a predictive marker of severity and prognosis in patients with CNS HSV and VZV infections.
Computerized Cognitive Training in People with Depression: A Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lampit Amit , Launder Nathalie H , Minkov Ruth , Rollini Alice , Davey Christopher G , Finke Carsten , Lautenschlager Nicola T , Gavelin Hanna Malmberg
Published: September 2020

Background
People with depression often present with concurrent cognitive impairment. Computerized cognitive training (CCT) is safe and efficacious strategy to maintain or enhance cognitive performance in a range of clinical populations. However, its efficacy in people with depression and how it varies across populations and design factors is currently unclear.
Methods
We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO from inception to 29 June 2020 for randomised controlled trials examining the efficacy of CCT vs any control condition on cognitive, mood, psychiatric symptoms, psychosocial functioning and daily function in adults with depression. Eligible samples include studies specifically targeting people with major depressive disorder as well as those with other diagnoses where at least 50% of the sample meets clinical criteria for depression, with the exception of major psychiatric disorders or dementia. The primary outcome is change in overall cognitive performance. Multivariate analyses will be used to examine effect sizes on each outcome category as well as possible effect modifiers and correlations between categories. Risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool version 2.
Discussion
To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first systematic review and meta-analysis of narrowly-defined CCT across clinical populations with depression. We aim to investigate not only whether CCT is efficacious for cognition, but also how such effects vary across design factors, what other clinically relevant outcomes might respond to CCT and the extent to which they differ across populations.
Systematic review registration:
Submitted and pending evaluation with PROSPERO.
Transcriptional Expression of Secondary Resistance genes ccdB and repA2 is Enhanced in Presence of Cephalosporin and Carabapenem in Escherichia Coli
Authors: Baishya Somorita , Deshamukhya Chandrayee , Wangkheimayum Jayalaxmi , Das Bhaskar Jyoti , Anbarasu Anand , Talukdar Anupam Das , Bhattacharjee Amitabha , Choudhury Manabendra Dutta
Published: September 2020

Background: The issue of carbapenem resistance in E.coli is very concerning and it is speculated that cumulative effect of both primary resistance genes and secondary resistance genes that act as helper to the primary resistance genes are the reason behind their aggravation. Therefore, here we attempted to find the role of two secondary resistance genes (SRG) ccdB and repA2 in carbapenem resistance in E. coli (CRE).Methods: Influential genes belonging to secondary resistome that act as helper to the primary resistance genes like blaNDM and blaCTX-M in aggravating β-lactam resistance were selected from an earlier reported in silico study. Transcriptional expression of the selected genes in clinical isolates of E.coli that were discretely harboring blaNDM-1, blaNDM-4, blaNDM-5, blaNDM-7 and blaCTX-M-15 with and without carbapenem and cephalosporin stress (2µg/ml) was determined by real time PCR. Cured mutants sets that were lacking (i) primary resistance genes, (ii) secondary resistance genes and (iii) both primary and secondary resistance genes were prepared by SDS treatment. These sets were then subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method.Results: Out of the 21 genes reported in the in silico study, 2 genes viz. repA2 and ccdB were selected for transcriptional expression analysis. repA2, coding replication regulatory protein, was downregulated in response to carbapenems and cephalosporins. ccdB, coding for plasmid maintenance protein, was also downregulated in response to carbapenems except imipenem and cephalosporins. Following plasmid elimination assay increase in diameter of zone of inhibition under stress of both antibiotics was observed as compared to uncured control hinting at the reversion of antibiotic susceptibility by the-then resistant bacteria. Conclusion: SRGs repA2 and ccdB help sustenance of blaNDM and blaCTX-M under carbapenem and cephalosporin stress.
Biomechanical Study of the C5-C8 Cervical Extraforaminal Ligaments
Authors: Zhao Qinghao , Yang Yemei , Wu Penghuan , Huang Chengyan , Zhang Rusen , Li Qingchu , Shi Benchao
Published: September 2020

Background:The anatomical distribution of the extraforaminal ligaments in the cervical intervertebral foramina has been well studied. However, detailed descriptions of the biomechanical characteristics of these ligaments are lacking.Methods: The paravertebral muscles were dissected, and the extraforaminal ligaments and nerve roots were identified. The C5 and C7 or C6 and C8 cervical nerve roots on both sides were randomly selected, and a window was opened on the vertebral lamina to expose the posterior spinal nerve root segments. Five needles were placed on the nerve root and the bone structure around the intervertebral foramen; the distal end of the nerve root was then tied with silk thread, and the weights were connected across the pulley. A weight load was gradually applied to the nerve root (50 g/ time, 60 times in total). At the end of the experiment, segments of the extraforaminal ligaments were selectively cut off to compare the changes in nerve root displacement.Results: The displacement of the C5, C6, C7, C8 nerve roots increases with an increasing traction load, and the rate of change of nerve root displacement in the intervertebral foramen is smaller than that in the nerve root on the outside area (p <0.05). Extraforaminal ligaments can absorb part of the pulling load of the nerve root; the C5 nerve root has the largest load range.Conclusions: Cervical extraforaminal ligaments can disperse the tension load on the nerve root and play a role in protecting the nerve root. The protective effect of the C5 nerve root was the strongest, and this may anatomically explain why the C5 nerve roots are less prone to simple avulsion.
Implementation of An Outdoor Smoke-Free Policy at Sports Clubs: Critical Situations and Factors Influencing Implementation
Authors: Garritsen Heike H , Rozema Andrea D , Goor Ien AM van de , Kunst Anton E
Published: September 2020

Background: Outdoor smoke-free policies (SFPs) at sports clubs have significant potential in reducing adolescent smoking. However, the actual occurrence of such effects may be strongly dependent on how these policies are implemented in practice. The aim of this study is to identify to what extent outdoor SFPs at sports clubs are implemented in practice and which factors contribute to successful implementation.Methods: Semi-structured interviews were held with 46 key stakeholders at 8 Dutch sports clubs (i.e., field hockey, soccer, tennis, korfball) with an outdoor SFP. A thematic approach was used for analysis of the transcripts. Results: Overall, the implementation of an outdoor SFP at sports clubs appears to be successful. The SFP is often enforced, smokers react positively when they are approached, the SFP has led to less (visible) smokers at the venue, and a nonsmoking norm is reinforced. However, we identified three ‘critical situations’ in which implementation is less than optimal: 1) when children are not present at the sports club, 2) when alcohol is involved, and 3) when smokers relocate at the entrance of the sports club. Several factors influenced implementation in those critical situations: 1) factors related to individual smokers and club members (i.e., support, communication towards smokers), 2) factors related to the SFP itself (i.e., clarity of the policy), 3) factors related to the sports club (i.e., communication of the policy, characteristics of the sports club), and 4) factors related to the wider community (i.e., change of social norm with regard to smoking, support from local and national organizations).Conclusions: Successful implementation of an outdoor SFP at sports clubs is feasible since support is high and experiences are mainly positive. Nevertheless, some situations represent challenges to compliance and enforcement. We identified a number of factors through which sports clubs may foster effectively implementation of an outdoor SFP at their clubs.