bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exogenous Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1 (SDF-1) Suppresses the NLRP3 Inflammasome and Inhibits Pyroptosis in Synoviocytes from Osteoarthritic Joints via Activation of the AMPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Shuya , Mobasheri Ali , Zhang Yue , Wang Yanli , Dai Tianqi , Zhang Zhiyi
Published: March 2021

ObjectiveNLRP3 inflammasome may play a key role in OA pathogenesis. Stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) is a homeostatic CXC chemokine. Since the role of SDF-1 in OA has not been explored, this study aimed to examine the effect of SDF-1 on NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis in synoviocytes from OA joints.Materials and MethodsHuman synovium was obtained from OA patients for isolation of primary synoviocytes and a murine model of collagen-induced OA was established for testing intra-articular injections of SDF-1. Immunoblotting assays were used to examine the effects and underlying mechanism of action of SDF-1 on NLRP3 inflammasome and synoviocyte pyroptosis in synoviocytes. Inhibitors of AMPK and PI3K-mTOR were utilized to investigate the key signaling pathways involved in SDF-1-mediated OA inflammasome formation and pyroptosis.ResultsSynoviocytes from OA joints exhibited significantly higher expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and biomarkers of synoviocyte pyroptosis relative to healthy individuals. This was confirmed in the collagen-induced OA model, where OA synoviocytes had a significantly lower SDF-1 expression than healthy ones. SDF-1 treatment in synoviocytes of OA patients and collagen-induced OA led to significant downregulation in the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and synoviocyte pyroptosis biomarkers. Inhibition of the AMPK signaling pathway significantly suppressed the inhibitory effect of SDF-1 on NLRP3 inflammasome expression of OA synoviocytes. However, blocking the SDF-1-activated PI3K-mTOR signaling pathway could still suppress the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and synoviocyte pyroptosis biomarkers.Conclusions﻿SDF-1 ameliorates NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis in OA synoviocytes through activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Therefore, SDF-1 may be a novel therapeutic target for OA.
The association between overweight/obesity and double diabetes in adults with type 1 diabetes; a cross-sectional study
Authors: Cantley Nathan , Lonnen Kathryn , Kyrou Ioannis , Tahrani Abd , Kahal Hassan
Published: March 2021

Backrgound: Double Diabetes (DD), type 1 diabetes (T1DM) + insulin resistance (IR), is associated with increased risk of micro/macro-vascular complications and mortality. Obesity can contribute to the development of DD. This study explored the prevalence of overweight/obesity and their association with DD in adults with T1DM.Methods: Cross-sectional study of consecutive adults with T1DM attending diabetes clinics in a secondary care hospital (January-November 2019). Estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) was used as a marker of IR, and an eGDR <8 was used to identify individuals with DD. Results: 107 adults with T1DM were included; female/male: 51/56; age [median (inter-quartile range): 30.0 (23-51) years]; BMI 25.4 (22.8-30.0) kg/m2. Overweight/obesity prevalence was 57/107 (53.3%) [overweight: 30/107 (28%); obesity: 27/107 (25.2%)]. Compared to those with normal BMI, individuals with T1DM and overweight/obesity had longer diabetes duration; higher total daily insulin dose; and higher DD prevalence: 48/57 (84.2%) vs 14/50 (28%) (p<0.01); with similar HbA1c. BMI correlated with total daily insulin dose (rho=0.55; p<0.01). Individuals with DD were older, had longer duration of diabetes, higher HbA1c, and more adverse lipid profile and microalbuminuria compared to those without DD.Conclusions: Overweight/obesity is very common in adults with T1DM, and is associated with double diabetes. BMI is positively associated with total insulin dose. Double diabetes is associated with adverse cardiovascular risk profile and is also common in lean individuals with T1DM. Further research is needed to examine the impact of overweight/obesity in people with T1DM and whether weight loss in this population can improve diabetes-related outcomes.
Environmental Degradation, Economic Growth and Non-renewable Energy in Selected South Asian Countries: Trivariate Analysis From DCCE-MG Approach
Authors: ADELEYE Bosede Ngozi , AKAM Darlington , INUWA Nasiru , JAMES Henry Tumba , BASILA Denis , OSABUOHIEN Evans
Published: March 2021

This study investigates and provides evidence on the impact of economic growth and non-renewable energy on environmental degradation. Using unbalanced panel data from 1990 to 2018 on five South Asian countries and engaging the dynamic common correlated effects-mean group (DCCE-MG) technique of Ditzen (2016, 2018), findings support the energy-led degradation hypothesis while the growth-led degradation hypothesis does not hold but both are supported from FMOLS and DOLS robustness checks. In order words, non-renewable energy and economic growth significantly drive environmental degradation. Country-level results are mixed with Nepal evidencing energy-led degradation, Pakistan shows growth-led degradation while India indicates growth-led sustainability. Supportively, the Dumitrescu-Hurlin (2012) non-Granger causality test establishes: (1) energy-led and growth-led degradation, (2) feedback causal relation between environmental degradation and non-renewable energy, and (3) unidirectional causality from growth to non-renewable energy i.e. “conservation” hypothesis. Policy implications are discussed.
Efficacy of Intraoperative Hemodynamic Optimization Using FloTrac/EV1000 Platform for Early Goal-directed Therapy to Improve Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft with Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tribuddharat Sirirat , Sathitkarnmanee Thepakorn , Ngamsangsirisup Kriangsak , Nongnuang Krisana
Published: March 2021

Background: Early goal-directed therapy (EGDT) using the FloTrac system reportedly decreased mortality, morbidity, and length of stay (LOS) in intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital among high-risk patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the FloTrac/EV1000 platform for improving postoperative outcomes in cardiac surgery. Methods: Eighty-six adults undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were randomized to the EV1000 or Control group. The Control group was managed with standard care to achieve the following goals: mean arterial pressure 65-90 mmHg; central venous pressure 8-12 mmHg; urine output ≥ 0.5 mL/kg/h; oxygen saturation > 95%; and hematocrit 26-30%. The EV1000 group was managed to reach similar goals using information from the FloTrac/EV1000 monitor. The targets were: stroke volume variation (SVV) < 13%; cardiac index (CI) 2.2-4.0 L/min/m2; stroke volume index (SVI) 33‑65 mL/beat/m2; and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) 1600‑2500 dynes/s/cm5/m2. Results: The LOS in ICU of the EV1000 group was significantly shorter (mean difference -29.5 h; 95%CI -17.2 to -41.8, p < 0.001). The mechanical ventilation time was also shorter in the EV1000 group (mean difference -11.3 h; 95%CI -2.7 to -19.9, p = 0.011). The hospital LOS was shorter in the EV1000 group (mean difference -1.1 d; 95%CI -0.1 to -2.1, p =0.038). The EV1000 group received a higher number of inotropic or vasoactive drugs than the Control group in pre-bypass period, but less in post-bypass, postoperative period before transfer to the ICU, and in the ICU. The EV1000 group had less atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and acute renal injury.Conclusions: Compared with standard care, intraoperative hemodynamic optimization using the FloTrac/EV1000 platform for the EGDT protocol in patients undergoing CABG with CPB resulted in shorter ventilator time, shorter ICU and hospital LOS, and fewer postoperative complications. The EV1000 group required more fluid and inotropic or vasoactive drugs in the pre-bypass period to optimize SVV, CI, and SVRI and to maintain the target MAP resulting in better myocardium oxygen supply reflected in fewer drugs required during post-bypass, before transfer to, and in, the ICU.Trial registrationThe study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04292951) on 03/03/2020.
Reconstruction of mandible defect with folded free fibular flap
Authors: Gao Ning , Fu Kun , Cai Jinghua , Chen Hao , He Wei
Published: March 2021

Mandibular defects directly affect a patient’ facial features, masticatory and articulation. This study has analyzed 41 patients with mandibular ameloblastoma who underwent a partial mandibulectomy and reconstruction by folding the free fibular flap. In the preoperative and postoperative (6 months and 24 months after surgery), the QOL of these patients was assessed by using the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW-QOL) and the medical outcome study short form-36 (SF-36) questionnaires. The sf-36 survey showed that body pain, general health, and health changes decreased significantly at 6 months after surgery, but the mean score at 24 months after surgery all exceeded that shown before surgery. The UW-QOL survey showed that chewing, speech and taste had significantly changed in the 6 months after the surgery, and the difference was statistically significant 24 months after the surgery. The total score of the patients almost recovered to the preoperative level at 24 months after the surgery. The folded free fibular flap is an ideal selection for the reconstruction of oral defects after cancer resection. In using this flap, the basic social need of patients after surgery can be satisfied. The folded free fibular flap can improve the patients’ QOL.
Examining Gender Differentials and Correlates of Private Health Insurance Subscription in Zambia
Authors: Mulenga James , Mulenga Mulenga C. , Musonda Katongo M.C. , Phiri Chilizani
Published: March 2021

Background: Health insurance is an essential aspect of health care. This is because it enables the insured to acquire timely and essential health care services, besides offering financial protection from catastrophic treatment costs. This paper seeks to establish gender differentials and correlates of health insurance subscription in Zambia. Methods: The data used in this study was obtained from the 2018 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey. Data was analyzed using STATA 13.0 software and focused on descriptive and Probit regression analyses. Results: The study finds that for women and men, age, wealth category, education and professional occupation are positively associated with health insurance. While, being self-employed in the agricultural sector, negatively influences health insurance coverage for both sexes. Other variables have gender specific effects. For instance, being in marital union and in a clerical occupation increases the probability of having health insurance for women. While, being in the services, skilled and unskilled manual occupations increase the probability of health insurance for men. Further, residing in rural areas reduces the probability of having health insurance for men. Conclusion: The study concludes that there are differences in factors that influence health insurance between women and men. Hence, this study highlights the need to enhance health insurance coverage by addressing the different factors that influence health insurance coverage among men and women. These factors include, enhancing education, job creation, diversifying insurance schemes and gender consideration in the design of NHIS.
Activation of TREK-1 Potassium Channel Improved Cognitive Deficits in Alzheimer's Disease Model Mice by Modulation of Glutamate Metabolic Pathway
Authors: Li Fang , Zhou Shu ning , Zeng Xin , Yang Rui , Wang Xue Xi , Meng Bin , Pei Wei lin , Lu Li
Published: March 2021

Alzheimerʼs disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive dysfunction. Glutamate (Glu) metabolism pathway mediated neurotoxicity is one of main factors causing memory impairment in AD. TWIK-related potassium channel-1 (TREK-1) exerts protective effect in brain ischemia, but the role of it in AD is unknown. In this study, the SAMP8 mice were used as an AD model, the age-matched SAMR1 mice as a control, we investigated the change trend of TREK-1 channel as well as AD related molecules in brains of SAMP8 mice and showed the expression levels of TREK-1 compensatory arose before 3 months of age, then began to decline. Meanwhile the levels of Tau and Glu increased with age while Ach level decreased over age. Next, using α-Linolenic acid (ALA) as an activator of TREK-1 channel, we showed that activation of TREK-1 channel improved the learning and memory deficits of SAMP8 mice aged in 6 months. Furthermore, we explored the possible mechanisms and found that the levels of molecules were closely related to the glutamate metabolism pathway. After the activation of TREK-1 channel, the damaged neurons and astrocyte were rescued, the levels of Glu and NMDAR were down-regulated, while the level of GLT-1 was up-regulated. These findings suggested that TREK-1 played the crucial role in the pathological progression of AD and activation of TREK-1 channel improved the cognitive deficits in SAMP8 mice which is mediated by Glu metabolism pathway. The TREK-1 potassium channel may be expected to be a new potential therapeutic target for AD.
Long-term Hematopoietic Stem Cells as Sanctuary Niche during Treatment Failure in Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Dirkx Laura , Hendrickx Sarah , Maes Louis , Caljon Guy
Published: March 2021

The increasing frequency of treatment failure in visceral leishmaniasis (VL) has already resulted in discontinuation of various first-line drugs. Although most studies focus on associations with parasitic drug resistance, a knowledge gap remains about other factors determining cure versus relapse. The present study used double bioluminescent/fluorescent Leishmania infantum and L. donovani reporter lines to study relapse at the tissue and cellular level. In combination with 123 different treatments in golden Syrian hamsters, the observations provide evidence of parasites surviving in the bone marrow (BM), identifying this tissue as a sanctuary site from where the host can be recolonized. Long-term hematopoietic stem cells (LT-HSC; Lin- Sca1 + cKit + CD48- CD150+) were found to become readily infected through invasion rather than phagocytosis. Compared to other BM cells and macrophages, LT-HSCs constitute a hospitable cellular niche with low nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species levels and harbouring enormous parasite burdens. Moreover, we found that infected LT-HSCs are less sensitive to antileishmanial reference drugs in comparison to macrophages. Given the important clinical implications for the current field situation of increasing post-treatment relapse rates, this study represents an essential step by identifying the BM cellular niches responsible for Leishmania persistence and treatment failure.
Hsp90 inhibitors directly block HSV-1 DNA replication via inducing degradation of pUL42
Authors: Qin Shurong , Hu Xiao , Zeng Qiongzhen , Wang Zhaoyang , Jia jiaoyan , Song Xiaowei , Ren zhe , Wang Yifei
Published: March 2021

Background：Herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-1) is a member of the Alphaherpesvirinae family, which could initiate labial herpes caused by the reactivation of HSV-1 primary infection, and genital herpes caused by secondary infection, even causes herpes encephalitis. The purpose of this study is to study potential viral proteins and the mechanism of antiviral activity of new Hsp90 inhibitors (AT-533 and 17-AAG). In previous studies, the Hsp90 inhibitor geldanamycin has been confirmed to induce the abnormal localization of HSV-1 pUL30, but it is unclear whether Hsp90 inhibitors affect other viral replication proteins.Methods：The anti-HSV-1 activity of AT-533 and 17-AAG were evaluated by CCK-8 assay and fluorescent virus titer assay. The mechanism of action against HSV-1 DNA replication was determined by the previous study and this research. Then we assayed the viral RNA transcription, viral DNA replication and protein expression, respectively. In addition, we identified the replication-related proteins that interact with Hsp90 through protein docking and co-immunoprecipitation, and determined the effects of AT-533 and 17-AAG on the expression of replication-related proteins.Results：CCK-8 and fluorescent virus titer determination showed that Hsp90 inhibitors hasve good anti-HSV-1 activity on HFF cells. Interestingly, AT-533 significantly reduces the synthesis of viral DNA, but it does not affect the expression of viral mRNA. Further, protein docking stimulation and co-IP assay revealed that DNA polymerase pUL42 interacted with Hsp90, which was largely degraded via autophagy by Hsp90 inhibitors. However, AT-533 does not affect the expression of other replication-related proteins, such as ssDNA binding protein UL9 and helicase-primerase UL5/8/52. The results suggested that Hsp90 inhibitors directly inhibited viral DNA replication by affecting the stability of DNA polymerase pUL42.Conclusions：Our results indicate that Hsp90 inhibitors may be potential candidates for HSV-1 therapy by directly inhibiting DNA replication, especially for ACV resistant strains.
Autocrine S100B in Astrocytes Promotes VEGF-dependent Inflammation and Oxidative Stress, and Causes Impairment of Neuroprotection
Authors: wang xuebao , yu he , liu leping , chen baihui , feng shuya , ding saidan
Published: March 2021

Background: Our previous study revealed that minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is strongly associated with neuroinflammation. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism of the induction of inflammatory response in MHE astrocytes remains unclear. Methods: In this study, we further investigated the effect and mechanism of S100B, predominant isoform expressed and released from mature astrocytes, on MHE-like neuropathology in the MHE rat model. Results: We discovered that S100B expressions and autocrine were significantly increased in MHE rats and astrocytes isolated from MHE rats. Furthermore, we found that S100B stimulates VEGF expression via the interaction between TLR2 and RAGE in an autocrine manner. S100B-facilitated VEGF autocrine expression further led to a VEGFR2 and COX-2 interaction, which in turn induced the activation of NFƙB, eventually resulting in inflammation and oxidative stress caused by MHE astrocytes. Compared to WT astrocytes, impairment of MHE astrocytes supported neuronal growth in co-culture.Conclusions: To sum up, comprehensive-understanding of the impact of S100B-overexpressed MHE astrocyte on MHE pathology may provide insights into the etiology of MHE.
Radiotherapy-induced Haematological and Intestinal Toxicity in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Ma Ruishuang , Ye Xiaoxian , Zhou Jianliang , Lou Pengrong , Guo Shenchao , Guo Jianxin
Published: March 2021

Chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression is common and threatening, however, the effect of radiation on bone marrow activity especially leukocyte count has been underestimated in cervical cancer. Pelvic radiation-related intestinal toxicity is prevalent, and the relationship between leukopenia and intestinal toxicity is not clear. The clinical data of 59 patients who underwent conventional radiation alone for cervical cancer were retrospectively analyzed. The patients had normal leukocyte count on admission, and the blood cell count, GTV dose, intestinal toxicity were evaluated. During radiotherapy (RT), 47 patients (79.7%) developed into leukopenia with 38.3% mild and 61.7% moderate. The mean time for leucopenia was 9 days. Compared with leucopenia-negative patients, leucopenia-positive ones had lower baseline leukocyte count, while the neutrophil/lymphocyte (NLR) and monocyte/lymphocyte (MLR) showed no significance. Logistic regression analysis indicated that excluding the factors for age, BMI, TNM stage, surgery and GTV dose, baseline leukocyte count was an important independent predictor of leucopenia (OR=0.383). During RT, the significant reduction was found in leukocyte, neutrophil and lymphocyte count at week 2 while monocyte count after 2 weeks. Furthermore, NLR and MLR showed significant and sustained upward trend. About 54.2% patients had gastrointestinal symptoms, however, no significant difference was noted between leukocyte count as well as NLR/MLR and intestinal toxicity. Our results suggest a high prevalence of leucopenia in cervical cancer patients receiving RT, and those with low baseline leukocyte count are more likely for leucopenia, for whom early prevention of infection may be needed during RT.
Protective role of ERCC4 SNP rs1800067 Minor Allele in Gallbladder Carcinogenesis.
Authors: Anjali Kumari , Singh Deepika , Kumar Puneet , Kumar Tarun , Narayan Gopeshwar , Singh Sunita
Published: March 2021

Purpose: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the most aggressive tumor of the biliary tract. Since DNA damage is one of the common events in GBC, we hypothesized that nucleotide excision repair enzymes may be defective in GBC. We aimed to investigate the association of SNP rs1800067 (G/A) of ERCC4 with the disease predisposition in gallbladder cancer and its prognosis. We have also investigated the expression of ERCC4 in GBC patients and gallstone patients for any possible correlation with the SNP.Methods: In 350 GBC patients and 300 controls, ERCC4 SNP rs1800067 was genotyped by PCR-RFLP. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR was performed using ERCC4 and internal control β-actin primers in gallstone and tumor biopsy. We adopted the Kaplan-Meier plot and log-rank tests to explore the association of rs1800067 and prognosis of gallbladder cancer patients. Results: We demonstrate that the minor allele A is less frequent in GBC patients than healthy controls, suggesting the association of GA genotype with decreased risk of GBC. rs1800067 genotypes have significantly differential frequencies relative to clinical parameters. The relative expression of ERCC4 is significantly differentially expressed among early and late stages of tumors. Patients with combined GA+AA genotypes had longer overall survival in patients with early stages of tumors and with chemotherapy.Conclusion: Our results suggest that minor allele A is significantly associated with reduced risk of gallbladder carcinogenesis. The upregulation of relative mRNA expression of ERCC4 is an early event in the progression of gallbladder cancer.
Emergence of Lanes and Turbulent-like Motion in Active Spinner Fluid
Authors: Reeves Cody , Aronson Igor , Vlahovska Petia
Published: March 2021

Assemblies of self-rotating particles are gaining interest as a novel realization of active matter with unique collective behaviors such as edge currents and non-trivial dynamic states. Here, we develop a continuum model derived from coarse-grained equations of motions for a system of discrete spinners. We apply the model to explore the mixtures of spinners and same-spin phase separation. We find that the dynamics is strikingly sensitive to fluid inertia: In the inertialess system, after transient turbulent-like motion the spinners segregate and form steady traffic lanes. Contrary, at small but finite Reynolds number, the turbulent-like motion is sustained and the spinner population exhibit a chirality breaking transition: only population with a certain sense of rotation survives. The results shed light on the dynamic behavior of non-equilibrium materials exemplified by active spinners.
Classification of Emotional States Inparkinson’s Disease Patients Using Time,Frequency and Time-Frequency Analysis
Authors: K.N Rejith , Subramaniam Kamalraj , Pillai Ayyem Pillai Vasudevan , V Roshini T , Ravi Renjith V. , V Elamaran
Published: March 2021

In this work, PD patients and healthy individuals were categorized with machine-learning algorithms. EEG signals associated with six different emotions, (Happiness(E1), Sadness(E2), Fear(E3), Anger(E4), Surprise,(E5) and disgust(E6)) were used for the study. EEG data were collected from 20 PD patients and 20 normal controls using multimodal stimuli. Different features were used to categorize emotional data. Emotional recognition in Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been investigated in three domains namely, time, frequency and time frequency using Entropy, Energy-Entropy and Teager Energy-Entropy features. Three classifiers namely, K-Nearest Neighbor Algorithm, Support Vector Machine and Probabilistic Neural Network were used to observethe classification results. Emotional EEG stimuli such as anger, surprise, happiness, sadness, fear, and disgust were used to categorize PD patients and healthy controls (HC). For each EEG signal, frequency features corresponding to alpha, beta and gamma bands were obtained for nine feature extraction methods (Entropy, Energy Entropy, Teager Energy Entropy, Spectral Entropy, Spectral Energy-Entropy, Spectral Teager Energy-Entropy, STFT Entropy, STFT Energy-Entropy and STFT Teager Energy-Entropy). From the analysis, it is observed that the entropy feature in frequency domain performs evenly well (above 80 %) for all six emotions with KNN. Classification results shows that using the selected energy entropy combination feature in frequency domain provides highest accuracy for all emotions except E1 and E2 for KNN and SVM classifier, whereas other features give accuracy values of above 60% for most emotions.It is also observed that emotion E1 gives above 90 % classification accuracy for all classifiers in time domain.In frequency domain also, emotion E1 gives above 90% classification accuracy using PNN classifier.
Atiprimod Triggered Apoptotic Cell Death via Acting on PERK/eIF2a/ATF4/CHOP and STAT3/NF-KB axis in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Coker-Gurkan Ajda , Can Esin , Sahin Semanur , YERLIKAYA PINAR OBAKAN , ARISAN Elif-Damla
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The constitutive activation of STAT3 through receptor tyrosine kinases triggered breast cancer cell growth, and invasion-metastasis. Atiprimod impacts anti-proliferative, anti-carcinogenic effects in hepatocellular carcinoma, lymphoma, multiple myeloma via hindering the biological activity of STAT3. Dose-dependent atiprimod evokes first autophagy as a survival mechanism and then apoptosis due to prolonged ER stress in pituitary adenoma cells. The therapeutic efficiency and mechanistic action of atiprimod in breast cancer cells have not been investigated yet. Thus, we aimed to modulate the pivotal role of ER stress in atiprimod-triggered apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells. Results: Dose- and time-dependent atiprimod treatment inhibits cell viability and colony formation in MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. A moderate dose of atiprimod (2 mM) inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation at Tyr705 residue and also suppressed the total expression level of p65. In addition, nuclear localization of STAT1, 3 and NF-kB was prevented by atiprimod exposure in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. Atiprimod evokes PERK, BiP, ATF-4, CHOP upregulation, and PERK (Thr980), eIF2a (Ser51) phosphorylation’s. However, atiprimod suppressed IRE1a-mediated Atg-3, 5, 7, 12 protein expressions and no alteration were observed on Beclin-1, p62 expression levels. PERK/eIF2a/ATF4/CHOP axis pivotal role in atiprimod-mediated G1/S arrest and apoptosis via Bak, Bax, Bim and PUMA upregulation in MDA-MB-468 cells. Moreover, atiprimod renders MDA-MB-231 more vulnerable to type I programmed cell death by plasmid-mediated increased STAT3 expression. Conclusion: Atiprimod induced prolonged ER stress-mediated apoptosis via both activating PERK/eIF2a/ATF4/CHOP axis and suppressing STAT3/NF-kB transcription factors nuclear migration in TBNC cells.
Measurement of Phthalate Acid Esters in Non-alcoholic Malt Beverages by MSPE-GC/MS Method in Tehran City: Chemometrics
Authors: Rezaei Hana , Moazzen Mojtaba , Shariatifar Nabi , Khaniki Gholamreza Jahed , Dehghani Mohammad Hadi , Arabameri Majid , Alikord Mahsa
Published: March 2021

The goal of this research was to assess the phthalic acid esters (DEP, DMP, BBP, DBP, DEHP, DnOP and total PAE) in non-alcoholic malt beverages bottled were magnetized with iron (MWCNT-Fe3O4) using Mass spectrometry is gas chromatography (GC-MS) in Tehran. The results showed that maximum and minimum of total phthalate esters in samples were 9483.93 and 2412.50 ng/l, respectively. The mean of DEHP (which has also been found to be carcinogenic) in all samples was lower than 5944.73 ng/l. The maximum concentration of DEHP in four samples was upper than 8957.87 ng/l. Multivariate techniques and heat-map visualization were used to assess the correlation among the type and levels of PAEs with brand, color, product date, pH, sugar, volume and gas pressure. Therefore, based on heat-map and principal component analysis (PCA) results, the Bis (2- ethyl hexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and total PAEs were the closest accessions, indicating that these variables had similar trends. Based on the results, it can be stated that due to the low average of total phthalate esters in non-alcoholic malt beverages, there is no serious health hazard of these compounds for humans.
LARP7 ameliorates cellular senescence and aging by allosterically enhancing SIRT1 deacetylase activity
Authors: Zhang Bing , Yan Pengyi , Li Zixuan , Xiong Junhao , Geng Zilong , Wei Weiting , Zhang Yan , Wu Gengze , Zhuang Tao , Tian Xiao Yu , Liu Zhijie , Liu Junling , Sun Kun , Chen Alex F , Zhang Yu , Zeng Chunyu , Huang Yu
Published: March 2021

Cellular senescence is associated with pleiotropic essential physiopathological processes including aging and age-related diseases. The persistent DNA damage response (DDR) is a major stress leading to senescence, but the underlying molecular link remains elusive. Here, we identified La Ribonucleoprotein 7 (LARP7), a 7SK RNA binding protein, as a novel aging antagonist. DDR-mediated Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM) activation triggered the extracellular shuttling and down regulation of LARP7, which dampened SIRT1 deacetylase activity, enhanced p53 and NF-κB transcriptional activity by augmenting their acetylation, and thereby accelerated cellular senescence. Deletion of LARP7 led to senescent cell accumulation and premature aging in rodent model. Furthermore, we show that this ATM-LARP7-SIRT1-p53/NF-κB senescence axis was active in vascular aging and atherogenesis, and preventing its activation substantially alleviated aging and atherogenesis. Together, this study identifies LARP7 as a gatekeeper for senescence, and the altered ATM-LARP7-SIRT1-p53/NF-κB pathway plays an important role in DDR-mediated cellular senescence and aging-related atherosclerosis.
A Case Report of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Derived from Rastelli Procedure-Related Congestive Liver Disease
Authors: Sakano Yoshihiro , Noda Takehiro , Kobayashi Shogo , Iwagami Yoshifumi , Yamada Daisaku , Tomimaru Yoshito , Akita Hirofumi , Gotoh Kunihito , Umeshita Koji , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi
Published: March 2021

[Background] The prognosis of congenital heart disease in children has improved, but late complications in adulthood are becoming an important problem. One late complication after congenital heart surgery is congestive liver disease, leading to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The Rastelli procedure is one of the surgical methods for transposition of the great arteries, and patients are thought have a low post-surgical risk of congestive hepatopathy by receiving re-intervention for right ventricular outflow tract obstruction.[Case presentation] We present the first case of HCC derived from Rastelli procedure-related congestive liver disease in a 41-year-old male. The patient underwent the Rastelli operation at 2 years of age and right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction at 10 and 35 years of age due to right ventricular outflow tract obstruction. At 41 years of age, a hepatic tumor was detected by computed tomography. Abdominal enhancing computed tomography revealed a partially hypervascular tumor in segment 2 in early phase and wash-out in late phase. The patient was diagnosed with HCC and underwent left lateral segmentectomy of the liver, splenectomy, and partial gastrectomy. The patient was discharged on the 28th postoperative day without postoperative complications. The resected tumor pathologically revealed moderately differentiated HCC and F3 liver fibrosis.[Conclusions] In the management of patients after the Rastelli operation, surveillance for congestive liver disease and HCC development is important, even if the patients have undergone right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction.
Safe Traffic Behaviors in High School Students: a Predictive Cross-sectional Study Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Ranaei Vahid , Hassani Laleh , Jahanlou Alireza Shahab , Roshanaei Ghodratollah , Rezapur-Shahkolai Forouzan
Published: March 2021

Background: Road traffic injuries are known as one of the leading causes of death of young people in the world. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigating the effective factors on safe traffic behavior of high school students in Hamadan using the theory of planned behavior. Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional-analytical study. The population of this study was all high school male students in Hamadan in the academic year 2020, of which 414 were selected by stratified random sampling method. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire that was conducted and were confirmed its validity and reliability. Results: Findings from Spearman correlation analysis and multiple regression showed that there is a significant positive relationship between knowledge (p<0.001), attitudes towards behavior (p<0.001), subjective norms (p<0.001) and perceived behavioral control (p<0.001) with students' behavioral intention. Also, was significant the effect of perceived behavioral control (P <0.001) and behavioral intention (P <0.001) on traffic safety behavior. Conclusion: Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the theory of planned behavior can be useful in predicting safe traffic behaviors.
First Proof-of-concept Evaluation of the FUSION-X-US-II Prototype for the Performance of Automated Breast Ultrasound in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Schaefgen Benedikt , Juskic Marija , Hertel Madeleine , Barr Richard G , Radicke Marcus , Stieber Anne , Hennings André , Riedel Fabian , Sohn Christof , Heil Joerg , Golatta Michael
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The FUSION-X-US-II prototype was developed to combine 3D-automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) and digital breast tomosynthesis in a single device without decompressing the breast. We evaluated the technical function, feasibility of the examination workflow, image quality, breast tissue coverage and patient comfort of the ABUS device of the new prototype. Methods: In this prospective feasibility study, the FUSION-X-US-II prototype was used to perform ABUS in 30 healthy volunteers without history of breast cancer. The ABUS images of the prototype were interpreted by a physician with specialization in breast diagnostics. Any detected lesions were measured and classified using BI-RADS® scores. Image quality was rated subjectively by the physician and coverage of the breast was measured. Patient comfort was evaluated by a questionnaire after the examination. Results: 106 scans were performed (61 x CC, 23 x ML, 22 x MLO) in 60 breasts. Image acquisition and processing by the prototype was fast and accurate. Breast coverage by ABUS was approximately 90.8%. 16 breast lesions (all benign, classified as BIRADS® 2) were identified. The examination was tolerated by all patients. Conclusion: The FUSION-X-US-II prototype allows a rapid ABUS scan with mostly high patient comfort. Technical developments resulted in an improvement of quality and coverage compared to previous prototype versions. The results are encouraging for a test of the prototype in a clinical setting in combination with tomosynthesis.
Miniaturized MIMO Antenna with Complementary Split Ring Resonators Loaded Superstrate for X-band Application
Authors: S Karthigaiveni , Pandeeswari R , S Deivalakshmi
Published: March 2021

An aperture coupled two element metamaterial (MTM) antenna suitable for multiple input multiple output (MIMO) applications in the frequency band of 7.525-9.1GHz is proposed. This three-layered structure utilizes a vertical array of rectangular complementary split ring resonators (CSRR) between the contiguously placed circular non-bianisotropic complementary split ring resonator (NBCSRR) radiating elements for enhancement of isolation. This antenna achieves a maximum of 47dB isolation through this MNG structure insertion in the frequency band for 0.11 λ0 separation of the two antenna elements. The proposed antenna achieves a fractional -10dB impedance bandwidth of 18.94% and has a peak gain of 8.15dB. The efficiency of the antenna is 84.14% and the envelope correlation coefficient is less than 0.03 in the operating band. The antenna is low profile with an overall size of 0.85 λ0 x 0.45 λ0 x 0.133 λ0 and is suitable for X-band military applications.
Pyriproxyfen-treated bednets reduce reproductive fitness and longevity of pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles gambiae under laboratory and field conditions
Authors: Grisales Nelson , Lees Rosemary S , Maas James , Morgan John C , Wangrawa Dimitri W , Guelbeogo Wamdaogo M , N’Fale Sagnon , Lindsay Steven W , McCall Philip J , Ranson Hilary
Published: March 2021

Background

The efficacy of insecticide treated nets (ITNs) containing the insect growth regulator pyriproxyfen (PPF) and pyrethroid insecticides (PPF-ITNs) is being assessed in clinical trials to determine whether they provide greater protection from malaria than standard pyrethroid-treated ITNs in areas where mosquitoes are resistant to pyrethroids. Understanding the entomological mode of action of this new ITN class will aide interpretation of the results from these trials.
Methods

Anopheles gambiae s.l. mosquitoes from a susceptible laboratory strain were exposed to PPF-treated netting 24 h, 6 h, and immediately prior to, or 24 h post blood feeding, and the impact on fecundity, fertility and longevity recorded. Pyrethroid-resistant populations were exposed to nets containing permethrin and PPF (PPF-ITNs) in cone bioassays and daily mortality recorded. Mosquitoes were also collected from inside houses pre- and post-distribution of PPF-ITNs in a clinical trial conduced in Burkina Faso; female An. gambiae s.l. were then assessed for fecundity and fertility.
Results

PPF exposure reduced the median adult lifespan of insecticide-susceptible mosquitoes by 4 to 5 days in all exposure times (p < 0.05) other than 6 h pre-bloodmeal and resulted almost complete lifelong sterilisation. The longevity of pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes was also reduced by at least 5 days after exposure to PPF- ITNs compared to untreated nets but was unaffected by exposure to standard pyrethroid only ITNs. A total of 386 blood-fed or gravid An. gambiae s.l. females were collected from five villages between 1 and 12 months before distribution of PPF-ITNs. Of these mosquitoes, 75 % laid eggs and the remaining 25 % appeared to have normal ovaries upon dissection. In contrast, only 8.6 % of the 631 blood-fed or gravid An. gambiae s.l. collected post PPF-ITN distribution successfully oviposited; 276 (43.7%) did not oviposit but had apparently normal ovaries upon dissection, and 301 (47.7%) did not oviposit and had abnormal eggs upon dissection. Egg numbers were also significantly lower (average of 138/female prior distribution vs 85 post distribution, p < 0.05).
Conclusion

Exposure to a mixture of PPF and pyrethroids on netting shortens the lifespan mosquitoes and reduces reproductive output. Sterilisation of vectors lasted at least one year under operational conditions. Our findings suggest a longer effective lifespan of PPF-pyrethroid nets than reported previously.
The impact of the work environment of nurses on patients safety
Authors: MALINOWSKA-LIPIEŃ IWONA , Micek Agnieszka , Gabryś Teresa , Kózka Maria , Gajda Krzysztof , Gniadek Agnieszka , Brzostek Tomasz , Fletcher Jason , Squires Allison
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Numerous studies have found that organizational features connected with the work environment of nurses have a significant influence on patients' safety. Aim of research. To capture nurses’ opinions about patients' safety and discern relationships with work environment characteristics. Material and methods. This cross-sectional study surveyed 1,825 nurses. The research used questionnaire consisting of four parts: 1/covered The Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index (PES-NWI), 2/assessed the quality of nursing care and care safety, 3/ contained information on the most recent duty served by the nurses, 4/ captured social and demographic data of participants. Results. The research identified strong association between patient safety assessment and work environment of nurses in the aspect of employment adequacy, cooperation between nurses and doctors, support for nurses from the managing staff, the possibility to participate in the management as well as professional promotion of nurses employed in the hospital (p<0.001). Nurses rated patient safety higher when responsible for a smaller number of patients. Conclusions. Work environment factors such as proper staffing, good cooperation with doctors, support from the management, professional independence as well as a prospect of promotion determine provision of safety for patient according to nurses.
Comparison of Accommodation and Accommodative Micro-Fluctuation After Implantable Collamer Lens and LASIK Surgery for Myopia
Authors: Li Li , Zhang Bo , Wang Zheng
Published: March 2021

Background: To longitudinally analyze and compare the accommodative micro-fluctuation (MFs) and accommodative function between myopic patients after implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation and laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).Methods: Patients with good corrected visual acuity (20/20 or better) that underwent ICL (V4c) and LASIK for myopic-correction (ranging from -3.50 to -8.50 D) were recruited. Refraction, amplitude of accommodation (AMP), accommodative lags, high-order aberrations (HOAs), and MFs were recorded before surgery and 1 and 3 months after surgery. The ACOMEREF automatic refractor was used to measure the high-frequency component (HFC) of the MFs, which suggested tension of the ciliary muscle.Results: The study comprised 120 eyes. At 3 months after surgery, the manifest refractive spherical equivalent of the ICL and LASIK groups were -0.11 and -0.09 D, respectively (p = 0.46). HFC values were significantly higher at 1 month (p = 0.03) and 3 months postoperatively (p = 0.03) in the ICL group compared to that in the LASIK group. The ocular HOAs of the ICL group was 1.08 ± 0.43 μm, which was lower than the LASIK group 1.45 ± 0.54 μm (p = 0.01). No significant differences in AMP and accommodative lags between groups were noted at 3 months postoperatively. There was a positive correlation between HFC and vault of the ICL lens (r2 = 0.14, p = 0.005). There were no correlations between HFC and HOAs and postoperative MRSE in the two groups (all p﹥0.05).Conclusions: The HFC increased significantly after ICL implantation compared to laser in situ keratomileusis for myopic correction, which indicated increased tension of the ciliary muscle, and had a positive correlation on the vault of the ICL lens; However, studies with longer follow-up time and more structural evaluation are needed.
Intraocular Pressure Elevation within Six Days After Vitreoretinal Surgery with Silicone Oil Injection for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Hao Xiaofeng , Xie Like
Published: March 2021

Background: We investigated the incidence of and risk factors for intraocular pressure elevation within 6 days following pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil injection for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Methods: We reviewed the records of 55 patients in whom pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil injection was performed. The intraocular pressure was evaluated before surgery and 1 day, 3 days, and 6 days post-operatively. Results: Intraocular pressure elevation was found in 49% of eyes within 6 days after surgery. A long duration of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was significantly associated with intraocular pressure elevation on day 1 after surgery. Presence of diabetes was significantly associated with intraocular pressure elevation at 3 days post-operation. Intraocular pressure elevation may occur 6 days following topical steroid use. Conclusions: Intraocular pressure should be monitored regularly in the early post-operative period after pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil injection for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, especially in patients with prolonged detachment and diabetic history.
Associations Between Structural and Social Determinants of Health With COVID Infection Rates at a Safety Net Hospital.
Authors: Ogunyemi Dotun , Mantilla Rolando , Markus Abhinav , Reeves Aubrey , Win Suyee , Barrientos Devin Ryan , Lim Dandrich , Raval Niren , Lanum David
Published: March 2021

Background: The reported disproportionate impact of COVID-19 infections on minority populations may be due to living in disinvested communities with high level of poverty, pollution, inadequate unsafe employment, and overcrowded housing.Objective: To determine the association of county, city, and individual risk factors with COVID-19 infection ratesMethods: Retrospective chart review on COVID-19 tests performed from March through July 2020 at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton­, California. Results: A total of 7104 tests were performed with 69% in the drive-through testing center. The mean duration of test-to-results time was 2.36 (+0.02) days. COVID-19 positive tests occurred in 1095 (15.4%). At least one symptom occurred in 414 (33%) with sensitivity of 37.8, specificity of 86.02, positive predictive value of 33.01, and negative predictive value of 72.76. Individual factors significantly associated with testing positive for COVID-19 were diabetes, Hispanic ethnicity, and male gender. Younger age was significantly associated with testing COVID positive with the highest risk in children <10 years. COVID-19 positive persons significantly resided in cities with higher population density, household members, poverty, non-English speaking homes, disability, lower median household income, lack of health insurance and decreased access to a computer and WIFI services. County health rankings showed significant positive association between testing positive for COVID-19 with increased smoking, air pollution, violent crimes, physical inactivity, decreased education and access to exercise. Conclusion: Adverse county health rankings; socially and economically disadvantaged cities are associated with an increased risk of testing positive for COVD-19. This information can be used in strategic planning and invention mitigation.