bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metagenomic next-generation sequencing for pathogenic diagnosis in patients with acute exacerbation of interstitial lung disease
Authors: Zhang Rui , Zhu Mengjing , Zhang Maowei , Shan Chuxiao , Ji Lei , Zhang Wenhui , Chen Bi
Published: March 2022

Background: Acute exacerbation is regarded as a risk factor for prediction of poor outcome in patients with interstitial lung disease. There is no unified view on the cause of acute exacerbation of interstitial lung disease (AE-ILD), among which infection is considered as an important cause, however, there are few related studies. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has been applied for pathogen determination for infectious diseases. However, the clinical significance of mNGS in AE-ILD remains unclear.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 33 cases confirmed of AE-ILD from Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine at Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University in Jiangsu, China, between Jun 2020 and May 2021. Patients were enrolled and the potential pathogens in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) or deep sputum were detected simultaneously by conventional microbial examination and mNGS. We evaluated the etiological diagnostic effect of mNGS in patients with AE-ILD.Results: In 96.8% (32/33) of the patients with AE-ILD, various pathogens were determined positively by mNGS, including 46% infected with viral, 28% with bacterial and 26% with fungal. Of these, 78% were considered to have mixed infection, mainly manifested as fungus + virus (39.74%), fungus + virus + bacteria (32.05%), and bacteria + virus (28.21%). In addition, the overall survival after admission for AE-ILD was 42.42% at 1 month and 51.51% at 3 months. Conclusions: mNGS showed that infection played an important role during the acute exacerbation of ILD, there are a variety of pathogens including bacteria, viruses and fungi, among which mixed infections were common.
Preparation and characterization of PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA for gene transfer to MCF-7 cells
Authors: Afrouz Mehdi , Ahmadi-Nouraldinvand Farnaz , ajirlu Yahia yaghooti , Arabnejad Fateme , Eslamian Saeid , Eskanlou Hadi , Yaghoubi Hashem
Published: March 2022

The ability of Chitosan-Folic acid and PLA-PEG polymers for gene delivery into MCF-7 cells was evaluated. The PLA-PEG copolymer is one of the most appealing nanoparticles for gene transfer to human cells because of its biocompatibility and high blood circulation. However, one of the barriers to the use of these polymers in gene therapy has always been the low effectiveness of these nanoparticles. In this study, Chitosan and folic acid were utilized to improve gene transfer efficiency and encapsulation of PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA nanoparticles. PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA nanoparticles with different concentrations of Chitosan-FA were prepared using double emulsion-solvent evaporation technique. The biological properties (i.e., biocompatibility, DNA release, and gene transfer ability to MCF-7 cells in vitro) as well as the physical and chemical properties (i.e., particle size, zeta potential, and the morphology of the resultant nanoparticles) of PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA nanoparticles were investigated. The results showed that increasing the Chitosan-FA concentration in the PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA nanoparticles resulted in an increase in zeta potential, DNA release, encapsulation, and gene delivery efficiency. The MTT assay showed PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA nanoparticles exhibit low cytotoxicity and good compatibility. On the other hand, fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry were used to test the ability of PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA nanoparticles with varied concentrations of chitosan-folic acid to transfer the gene to MCF-7 cells. Flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy analysis showed that increasing the concentration of chitosan-folic acid in PLA-PEG/Chitosan-FA/DNA nanoparticles improved gene transfer efficiency to MCF-7 cells.
Pandemic Vulnerability Index of US Cities: A Hybrid Knowledge-based and Data-driven Approach
Authors: Rahman Md. Shahinoor , Paul Kamal Chandra , Rahman Md. Mokhlesur , Samuel Jim , Thill Jean-Claude , Hossain Md. Amjad , Nawa G. G. Md.
Published: March 2022

Cities become mission-critical zones during pandemics and it is vital to develop a better understanding of the factors that are associated with infection levels. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many cities severely; however, there is significant variance in its impact across cities. Pandemic infection levels are associated with inherent features of cities (e.g., population size, density, mobility patterns, socioeconomic condition, and health & environment), which need to be better understood. Intuitively, the infection levels are expected to be higher in big urban agglomerations, but the measurable influence of a specific urban feature is unclear. The present study examines 41 variables and their potential influence on COVID-19 cases and fatalities. The study uses a multi-method approach to study the influence of variables, classified as demographic, socioeconomic, mobility and connectivity, urban form and density, and health and environment dimensions. This study develops an index dubbed the PVI-CI for classifying the pandemic vulnerability levels of cities, grouping them into five vulnerability classes, from very high to very low. Furthermore, clustering and outlier analysis provides insights on the spatial clustering of cities with high and low vulnerability scores. This study provides strategic insights into levels of influence of key variables upon the spread of infections as well as fatalities, along with an objective ranking for the vulnerability of cities. Thus it provides critical wisdom needed for urban healthcare policy and resource management. The pandemic vulnerability index calculation method and the process present a blueprint for the development of similar indices for cities in other countries, leading to a better understanding and improved pandemic management for urban areas and post-pandemic urban planning across the world.
Endothelin-1, pentraxin-3, acute phase proteins and oxidative stress before and after treatment in neonatal calves with sepsis caused by Escherichia coli K99
Authors: Akyüz Enes , Merhan Oğuz , Sezer Mert , Coşkun Mustafa Reha , Erkılıç Ekin Emre , Batı Yusuf Umut , Bozukluhan Kadir , Kuru Mushap , Şahin Mitat , Gökce Gürbüz
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to detect changes in acute-phase proteins endothelin-1 (ET-1), pentraxin-3 (P-3), ceruloplasmin (Cp), haptoglobin (Hp), and albumin, in calves with diarrhea caused by Escherichia coli K99 neonatal sepsis before and after treatment. Diagnostic and prognostic clinical, biochemical, and hematological parameters were evaluated. A total of 30 calves, divided into a sepsis group and a healthy control group, were assessed. The sepsis group was composed of 20 newborn calves (0–10 days old) which met neonatal sepsis criteria, did not receive any treatment, and were referred to the clinics of the Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, within 24 hours after the detection of clinical findings. The control group consisted of 10 healthy calves (0–10 days old) for comparison. Clinical examinations (respiratory rate, rectal temperature, heart rate, capillary refill time, sucking reflex) were performed before (0th h) and after (7th d) treatment. Blood samples were drawn via the jugular vein from sick calves before and after treatment and once from control animals. The P-3, ET-1, Cp, Hp, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in the sepsis group before treatment were statistically higher than post-treatment and control group values (P < 0.001); while the glutathione (GSH) concentration was statistically lower (P = 0.002). In conclusion, the high pre-treatment concentrations of P-3, ET-1, Cp, Hp, and MDA in the sepsis group were of diagnostic importance. The approximation of these parameters after treatment to the mean values of the control group was also of prognostic value.
Whole-genome sequencing, trajectory tracking, and field investigation reveal origin and long-distance migration routes of wheat stripe rust in China
Authors: Li Yuxiang , Dai Jichen , Zhang Taixue , Wang Baotong , Wang Conghao , Zhang Jiguang , Yao Qiang , Li Mingju , Li Chengyun , Peng Yueling , Cao Shiqin , Zhan Gangming , Tao Fei , Gao Haifeng , Huang Weili , Feng Xiaojun , Bai Yingwen , Qucuo Zhuoma , Shang Hongsheng , Huang Chong , Liu Wancai , Xu Xiangming , Zhan Jiasui , Chen Xianming , Kang Zhensheng , Hu Xiaoping
Published: March 2022

Understanding the origins and migration routes of phytopathogen inoculum is essential in predicting disease development and formulating control strategies. Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), the causal agent of wheat stripe rust, is an airborne fungal pathogen threatening wheat production by long-distance migration. Due to large variation in geographic features, climatic conditions, and wheat production systems, inter-regional Pst dispersal routes in China remain largely unknown. In the present research, we sequenced 154 Pst isolates sampled from all the major wheat-growing regions in China to study the Pst population structure. Western Qinling Mountains, Himalayan region, and Guizhou Plateau were found to be centers of Pst origin in China. Combined with trajectory tracking and field disease surveys, long-distance Pst migration routes from individual origins were proposed. The present findings will improve current understanding of Pst origin and migration in China and emphasize the need for managing stripe rust at the national scale.
Intestinal stiffness in Crohn’s disease treated by biologics: Comparison of ustekinumab and infliximab using ultrasound shear wave elastography
Authors: Matsumoto Hiroshi , Hata Jiro , Imuamura Hiroshi , Yo Shogen , Sasahira Momoyo , Misawa Hiraku , Oosawa Motoyasu , Murao Takahisa , Handa Osamu , Umegami Eiji , Shiotani Akiko
Published: March 2022

Background: Intestinal strictures represent an important serious complication of Crohn’s disease (CD). Shear wave elastography (SWE) is one of the promising noninvasive ultrasound techniques for assessing tissue stiffness. This study was aimed to evaluate stiffness at the areas of intestinal stricture in CD patients using SWE, and the changes of stiffness after biologics. Methods: Bowell wall thickness was examined by ultrasound sonography (US) and the stiffness of CD stricture lesions was evaluated using Shear wave speed (SWS) before and one year after anti-TNF-alpha antibody infliximab (IFX), anti-interleukin (IL) 12/23 antibody ustekinumab (UST), and bio-switch from IFX to UST. Results: Bowell wall thickness was significantly improved after IFX, UST, and the bio-switch. However, SWS indices only in the UST group significantly decreased after treatment (p=0.028), but not in the other group. Conclusion: UST may lead to suppression of obstruction in CD naïve patients with stricture lesions.
Revealing the Dominant Source of Cosmic Rays in a Nearby Galaxy
Authors: Michiyama Tomonari , Inoue Yoshiyuki , Doi Akihiro , Khangulyan Dmitry
Published: March 2022

Cosmic rays are ultrarelativistic particles that are integral components of the cosmic background. The cosmic-ray energy spectrum suggests the existence of so-called galactic PeVatrons– local sources that are capable of boosting the particle energy beyond 1 PeV (1,2). In the Milky Way, the birth and death of massive stars give rise to sufficient cosmic-ray sources for supplying the required accelerating power. Through observations in the gamma-ray band, several nearby galaxies with cosmic ray power significantly exceeding the calorimetric limit of the star formation activities have been identified (3–6) such as NGC 1068, which is a nearby Seyfert galaxy (7–9). Compared to other galaxies, NGC 1068 features a modest-power kiloparsec-scale jet and one of the most active regions surrounding the central supermassive black hole (10,11). While synchrotron emission was confirmed at the jet by centimetre interferometers, the particle spectrum and acceleration site could not be identified due to limited frequency coverage and angular resolution. Here we report the high-resolution radio observations of NGC 1068, which reveal the ultrarelativistic electrons at the apex of its jet. Spectral and morphological studies of the parsec-scale radio blobs in the jet termination region show that these blobs are efficient sites of cosmic-ray acceleration with a strongly amplified magnetic field. The physical conditions revealed in the blobs imply that they are capable of accelerating protons to energies beyond the petaelectronvolt range. The estimated cosmic-ray power at the jet head exceeds the limit set by the star formation activity in this galaxy. This result suggests that even modest-power jets significantly increase the galactic cosmic-ray content while propagating through the galactic bulge.
Methyl Jasmonate Induces Oxidative/Nitrosative Stress and the Accumulation of Antioxidant Metabolites in Phoenix Dactylifera L.
Authors: Romdhane Amal Ben , Chtourou Yassine , Sebii Haifa , Baklouti Emna , Nasri Ameni , Drira Riadh , Maalej Mohamed , Drira Noureddine , Rival Alain , Fki Lotfi
Published: March 2022

Objectives
The present study aimed at exploring the eliciting effects of increasing concentrations (50, 100, and 200 µM) of MeJA. We cultivated actively proliferating buds of Phoenix dactylifera L. cv. Barhee in a temporary immersion system and we monitored the bioactive compounds accumulation after 7 days of culture.
Methods
Total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), and radical scavenging activity using DPPH and ABTS assays. We also explored the activity of phenylpropanoid pathway enzymes, namely phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), tyrosine ammonia-lyase (TAL) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO).
Results
Our results revealed that high MeJA concentrations induced an increase in the PAL, TAL and PPO activities. Several stress markers such as Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), Nitric oxide (NO), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Guaiacol peroxidase (GPOD) were also found to rise. Beside, MeJA caused subsequent elevations in the amount of catechin, 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid, caffeic acid and p-Coumaric acid and antioxidant capacity with the lowest DPPH and ABTS IC50 values. Microscopic observations using fluorescence probes such as fluorescein diacetate (FDA) and acridine orange/ethidium bromide demonstrated that the supplementation of MeJA to culture media induced cells death in a dose dependent manner.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that in vitro cultures elicited by MeJA of Phoenix dactylifera L. have the capacity to produce secondary metabolites.
Knowledge on Anemia Causes and Associated Risks Improve with Education and Better Socioeconomic Standards among Students of Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing and Other Allied Health Professions in Palestinian Territories
Authors: Natour Nihal , Tell Mariam Al , Shakhshir Marah
Published: March 2022

IntroductionAnemia is a global nutritional problem with consequent mortality and morbidity on females of reproductive age and infants and children.Aims and Objectives:The aims of this study was to assess knowledge about anemia and associated factors among Palestinian medical and allied health students and to evaluate their response to study course on the topic.MethodsData was collected using an electronic questionnaire that evaluated the students' knowledge on anemia, their sociodemographic variables, nutritional health and study of anemia as part of course that was offered to them in varying times. Anemia knowledge score was calculated and socioeconomic status scores (SES) were calculated. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS.Results117 students from schools of medicine, nursing, pharmacy and other health disciplines participated in the study. Average age was (19.9 ± 2.24 y), average score on anemia knowledge out of 26 was (19.4 ± 3.6 points). Only 29.9% of the study participants were males. Age, SES based on income and father education were the major significant predictors of knowledge on anemia score. Taking the nutrition course improved anemia knowledge score (p = 0.09) and specialty was not significant predictor of anemia knowledge.ConclusionMedical and health related profession student could benefit from taking nutrition courses on anemia
Water demand in watershed forecasting using a hybrid model based on autoregressive moving average and deep neural networks
Authors: Liu Guangze , Yuan Mingkang , Chen Xudong , Lin Xiaokun , Jiang Qingqing
Published: March 2022

Water resource shortage is a realistic problem faced by water supply systems in river basins. Forecasting water demand is crucial for sustainable management of water supply systems. In this paper, the ARMA—DNN model is established to predict the water demand of the basin by combining the deep neural network (DNN) and the autoregressed-moving average (ARMA) mixed model. Taking the economic growth water demand and the actual social water demand as the main prediction targets, a mixed prediction model based on 14 statistical indicators is built. The model uses data from 2010 to 2020 to forecast water demand in the Minjiang River Basin. The results show that :(a) the model can accurately predict the future water consumption of the basin under the condition of actual water consumption changes; (b) The forecast of future water consumption has a significant impact on agricultural grain yield, industrial economic output value and domestic water satisfaction. In each region of the basin, agricultural grain yield and industrial economic output value and domestic water satisfaction are mutually restricted; (c) When climate conditions deteriorate and water shortages become severe, effective water demand forecasting can alleviate water demand contradictions to some extent. In a word, watershed managers need to make industrial water allocation schemes in different regions based on the forecast results of future water consumption, so as to balance the relationship among agricultural and food output, economic output value and domestic water satisfaction.
Effects of back-up position on tracheal intubation using a Macintosh-geometry videolaryngoscope in patients with a simulated difficult airway: A prospective randomized crossover study
Authors: Jun Joo Hyun , Chun Eun Hee , Chung Mi Hwa , Kim Jung Eun , Kim Kyung Mi , Lee Hye Sun , Son Jung Mo , Park Jiho
Published: March 2022

Background: Both Macintosh-geometry and hyper-angulated videolaryngoscopes provide a better laryngeal view than conventional direct laryngoscope. However, the Macintosh-geometry videolaryngoscopes may not provide as dramatic an improvement in the laryngeal view as the hyper-angulated videolaryngoscopes because they lack the capacity to view structures around corners, so glottic exposure using the Macintosh-geometry videolaryngoscopes may be incomplete in some difficult airway. Patient positioning has an important effect on laryngeal visualization and successful tracheal intubation. However, the ideal head and neck position for videolaryngoscope has not yet been evaluated. We evaluated the effects of the back-up position on laryngeal visualization and ease of intubation using a Macintosh-geometry videolaryngoscope in patients with a simulated difficult airway.Methods: Sixty-four patients were included in this prospective, crossover, randomized controlled trial. Limited neck movement and mouth opening were simulated using a cervical collar. The laryngeal view was assessed in both neutral and back-up positions, in a randomized order, using a Macintosh-geometry videolaryngoscope, based on the percentage of glottic opening (POGO) score and modified Cormack–Lehane (MCL) grade. When scoring laryngeal visualization, external laryngeal manipulation was not permitted. The trachea was intubated only once (in the second position). The ease of intubation was assessed based on the need for optimization maneuvers, Intubation Difficulty Scale (IDS) scores, and time to intubation.Results: The mean POGO score improved significantly in the back-up position (59.4 ± 23.8%) compared with the neutral position (37.5 ± 24%) (P <0.0001). MCL grade 1 or 2a was achieved in 56 (85.9%) and 28 (43.7%) of patients in the back-up and neutral positions, respectively (P <0.0001). Optimization maneuvers for intubation were required in 7 (21.9%) and 17 (53.1%) patients in the back-up and neutral positions, respectively (P <0.0001). The IDS and time to intubation did not differ significantly between positions. Conclusion: The back-up position significantly improved the laryngeal view during Macintosh-geometry videolaryngoscope-guided intubation. It also improved ease of intubation, reflected in a reduced need for optimization maneuvers.Trial registration: This trial was registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04716218, on 20/01/2021.
Feasibility of a Group-Based Telerehabilitation Intervention for Long COVID Management.
Authors: King Meredith , Byrne Anthony , Denehy Linda , Graham Petra , Douglas Ben , de Toni Priscilla , Santos Angelo , Kitson Emily , Pang Alison , Bartos Elena , Plit Marshall , Mungovan Sean
Published: March 2022

Background and objective:
The increasing awareness of the prevalence and chronic nature of the COVID-19 disease burden requires a better understanding of effective interventions in large scale clinical trials. Telerehabilitation is effective in other chronic disease groups and the aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a specific, group-based telerehabilitation exercise intervention for Long-COVID.
Methods
People with Long-COVID symptoms, defined as persistent dyspnoea, fatigue or chest pain, at least 110 days post COVID-19 diagnosis and who had not undertaken exercise training three months prior to randomisation into the trial were included. Participants were randomised to receive a twice-weekly supervised group telerehabilitation program for ten weeks or continue with usual care. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment rate, adherence, completion rate, adverse events and technological issues. Exploratory clinical outcomes including exercise capacity, fatigue and health-related quality of life were also assessed.
Results
21 participants with mean age 53 ± 14 yrs, 17 of whom were not hospitalised, were recruited 365 ± 67 days after diagnosis of COVID-19. The recruitment rate was 39% of possible participants. Nine (82%) of the intervention group completed the follow-up assessments. The telerehabilitation participants completed 18 ± 2 sessions, with 100% completing 16 sessions or more. There were no adverse events and two technological problems reported for the intervention group.
Conclusion
Supervised group telerehabilitation appears to be feasible and safe for people with Long-COVID. A future study is required to examine the efficacy and generalizability of the supervised group-based telerehabilitation exercise intervention.
Trial registration:
Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (Trial ID: ACTRN12621000031864)
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Undernutrition Among Pregnant Women in Lamwo District Northern Uganda
Authors: Alanyo Linda Grace , Ngabirano Tom Denis , Ayebare Elizabeth , Masereka Enos Mirembe , Mukunya David , Ndeezi Grace , Tumwine James K.
Published: March 2022

Background: Maternal undernutrition is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality among pregnant women. While undernutrition is a common problem in Uganda, the magnitude of undernutrition especially among pregnant women in a post-conflict area where food may be scarce has not been documented. We determined the prevalence and factors associated with undernutrition among pregnant women in Lamwo District, Northern Uganda.Method: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out in four health facilities in Lamwo District in Northern Uganda from January, 3rd 2019 to February, 2nd 2019. A total of 522 pregnant women were consecutively enrolled into the study. A Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) of ≤23cm was used as a cutoff for undernutrition. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire. We used descriptive statistics to understand the socio-demographic characteristics of the pregnant mothers and their nutrition status. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine factors independently associated with undernutrition. Statistical significance was considered at a p-value of < 0.05.Results: In this study, most 402 (77.01%) of the participants were 20-35 years of age, slightly more than half 270 (51.72%) had attained secondary or tertiary education, most 422 (80.84%) were married, and 367 (70.31%) had at least two meals a day. The prevalence of undernutrition was 8.6% [95% CI (6.4%, 11.4%)]. Single mothers were 4.2 times more likely to be undernourished compared to married women [OR= 4.24, 95%CI (1.73, 10.35)]. Women who had three or more meals were 86 percent less likely to be undernourished compared to those who had one meal [OR=0.14, 95% CI (0.02, 0.78)].Conclusion: The prevalence of undernutrition among pregnant women in Lamwo, a rural post conflict district in Northern Uganda was 8.6 percent. Spousal support and having a diversified diet at least three times daily might reduce undernutrition among pregnant women.
Impact of Patent Ductus Arteriosus Shunt Size and Duration on Risk of Death or Severe Respiratory Morbidity in Preterm Infants Born in China
Authors: Deng Yingping , Zhang Haiyan , Zhao Zhuoyu , Du Juan , Bai Ruimiao , McNamara Patrick J.
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To assess whether duration and size of the arterial duct was associated with severe respiratory morbidity and mortality in preterm infants.Methods: All echocardiography evaluations for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in a cohort of preterm infants, born at a gestational age less than 28 weeks, from birth up to 36 weeks of postconceptional age or final ductal closure were reviewed. Ductal size was measured at the pulmonary end. PDA was classified as small (E1: ductal diameter(DD)≤ 1.5 mm), moderate (E2: 1.5mm < DD ≤ 2.5 mm) or large (E3) (DD > 2.5 mm). The primary outcome was adverse outcome defined by the composite outcome of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) or death. Infants in whom the primary outcome occurred were classified as “high-risk”, whereas patients who did not satisfy this outcome were classified as “low-risk”. Intergroup comparison (high vs low risk) was performed using univariate and multivariate analyses.Results: A total of 135 infants, born between 2010 and 2020, were evaluated. The primary outcome was satisfied in 46 (34.1%) patients. The high-risk group was characterized by increased duration of exposure to PDA of any (E1/E2/E3) grade (44 vs. 25.5 days, p=.0004), moderate or large (E2/E3) PDA (30.5 vs. 11.5 days, p<.0001), moderate (E2) PDA (10.8 vs.6 days, p=0.05) and large (E3) PDA (11.5 vs.0 days, p<.0001) compared with low-risk group. Lower gestational age, prolonged duration of mechanical ventilation, higher rate of inotrope use, pharmacological therapy and PDA ligation were also associated with development of BPD or death (high-risk group). After adjusting for confounders, the rate of inotrope use [OR 2.688, 95% CI (1.011-7.142), p=0.047], duration of large (E3) PDA [OR 1.060, 95% CI (1.005-1.118), p=0.03], and mechanical ventilation [OR 1.130, 95% CI (1.064-1.200), p=0.0001] were independently associated with the composite of BPD or death. Among infants who developed BPD, 27 were classified as grade I and 18 as grade II BPD, respectively. Infants with grade II BPD had prolonged MV (20.0 vs. 9.0 days, p=0.024), prolonged exposure to PDA of any grade (55.8 vs. 36.0 days, p=0.03) and prolonged exposure to large (E3) PDA compared with infants with grade I BPD.Conclusions: Prolonged exposure to a larger PDA was associated with severe respiratory morbidity and mortality in preterm infants. The modulator role of early intervention, in the most pathologic shunts, on severe respiratory morbidity in preterm infants should be tested in well-designed clinical trials.
Embracing the Choices of Now: Wisdom from those at End-of-Life
Authors: Stahnke Brittany , Davis Roxxi
Published: March 2022

Background: There is little research focused on the elderly, despite this being the fastest-growing age group. The last phase of life brings with it unique wisdom and life advice that can be used to guide all people in their journeys. Illness or coming to an older age can begin a journey of growth and acceptance. The purpose of this study was to provide scholarship detailing advice and learnings of those in this unique and final life stage.Methods: Nine participants were interviewed, and transcripts were analyzed in a phenomenological manner.Results: Participants discussed topics of pain, family, and marital success. The importance of choice in the lives we live, as well as marriage as hard work, were some main trends that presented.Conclusions: Family was the most important part of these lives; however, with or without family, one also benefits from a sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves.Trial registration: N/A
Self-Care Practice and Associated Factors Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at a Referral Hospital in Northern Ethiopia – a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Zewdie Segenet , Moges Getachew , Andargie Assefa , Habte Bruck Messele
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Diabetes self-care is important to maintain optimal glycemic control and prevent debilitating and costly complications. Diabetes self-care may be improved through the identification of individual and group barriers to regimen adherence and subsequent development of specific plans to overcome these barriers. This study assessed the self-care practice and associated factors among type 2 diabetes patients attending their treatment at Dessie Referral Hospital, Dessie, North-Eastern Ethiopia. Methods: The study employed parallel mixed methods design which followed a cross-sectional interview and in-depth interview methods respectively from September to October 2019. The collected data were subjected to descriptive and inferential analysis for the quantitative part and a thematic analysis for the qualitative part. The protocol for this study was ethically approved (CMHS/013/519/12). Results: A total of 328 type 2 diabetes patients participated in the study of which 50.3% reported good self-care practice. Being in the age category of 60–69 years old (AOR = 0.334, 95% CI (0.135, 0.951)), being ≥ 70 years old (AOR = 0.359, 95% CI (0.135,0.951)), having complications (AOR = 1.956, 95% CI (1.172, 3.262)), having co-morbidity (AOR = 0.443, 95%CI (0.262, 0.749)) and diabetes education (AOR = 2.684, 95%CI (1.633,4.412) were significantly associated with good diabetes self-care. Accessibility, social support, knowledge and beliefs and diabetes related morbidities were identified as barriers to diabetes self-care by the patients. Conclusion: The findings from this study revealed that only half of the type 2 diabetes patients who participated in this study reported good self-care practice. Different factors including diabetes education were significantly associated with good diabetes self-care according to the quantitative study. This was supported by the findings from the qualitative part and thus the recommendation to strengthen diabetes health education to patients and their families.
Different Responses of Banana Classical AGP Genes and Cell Wall AGP Components to Low-temperature between Chilling Sensitive and Tolerant Cultivars
Authors: Liu Jing , Meng Jian , Chen Houbin , Li Xiaoquan , Su Zuxiang , Chen Chengjie , Ning Tong , He Zhenting , Dai Longyu , Xu Chunxiang
Published: March 2022

Classical arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) belong to glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins, which are proved to be involved in signaling and cell wall metabolism upon stresses. However, rare information is available on the roles of classical AGPs in low temperature (LT) tolerance. Cultivation of banana in tropical and subtropical region is seriously threatened by LT stress. In the present study, 17 classical MaAGPs and nine MbAGPs in banana A and B genome were identified and characterized, respectively. Great diversity was present among different classical MaAGP/MbAGP members while five members (AGP3/6/11/13/14) showed 100% identity between these two gene families. We further investigated different responses of classical AGPs to LT between a chilling sensitive (CS) and tolerant (CT) banana cultivars. In addition, different changes in the temporal and spatial distribution of cell wall AGP components under LTs between these two cultivars were compared using immunofluorescence labeling. Seven classical MbAGPs were upregulated by LT(s) in the CT cultivar. Classical MaAGP4/6 was induced by LT(s) in both cultivars while MaAGP1/2/9/16/17 only in the CT cultivar. Moreover, these genes showed significantly higher transcription abundance in the CT cultivar than the CS one under LT(s) except classical MaAGP4. Similar results were observed with the epitopes of JIM13 and LM2 antibodies. The antigens of these antibodies and classical MaAGP1/2/6/9/16/17 might be related to LT tolerance of banana. These results provide additional information about plant classical AGPs and their involvement in LT tolerance, as well as their potential as candidate genes to be targeted when breeding CT banana.
miR-517b-3p promotes the progression of portal vein tumor thrombus via activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in Hepatocellular carcinoma.
Authors: Ke Rui-Sheng , Huang Kun-Zhai , Bao De-sheng , Yang Jing-Rui , Wang Hua-xiang , Lv Li-Zhi , Jiang Yi , Liu Zhao-Hui , Zhang Fu-Xing
Published: March 2022

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the expression patterns and prognostic value of microRNA-517b-3p (miR-517b-3p) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT).Methods: Expression of miR-517b-3p in PVTT tissues and cells was estimated using qRT-PCR. The significance of miR-517b-3p were explored by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Cox regression assay and ROC analysis. Cell experiments were performed to examine the functional role of miR-517b-3p during progression of PVTT. The Biological process and Biological pathway analysis analyses were conducted through GSEA and FunRich. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the DEGs was established through cBioPortal website. Results: miR-517b-3p upregulated in both PVTT tissues and cells compared with the controls. The upregulated miR-517b-3p served as a potential diagnostic biomarker to distinguish PVTT from PT and controls, associated with poor overall survival and acted as an independent prognostic factor. The cell proliferation, migration and invasion were proved to be enhanced by overexpression of miR-517b-3p. Wnt/β-catenin signaling was suppressed by miR-517b-3p knockdown and might be involved in progression of PVTT. Conclusion: miR-517b-3p may promote PVTT cell proliferation, migration and invasion via activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. miR-517b-3p overexpression in PVTT samples, and serves as a candidate diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in HCC patients with PVTT.
Alkaline Phosphatase to Albumin Ratio: A Novel Prognostic Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Microwave Ablation as the Initial Treatment
Authors: Chen Bin , An Tailai , Li Xinming , Sun Xinfeng , Sheng Cuiyun , Wang Yan , Xie Zonggui , Quan Xianyue
Published: March 2022

Background
As a new serum-based biomarker, albumin to alkaline phosphatase ratio (AAPR) has been studied among several cancers. However, alkaline phosphatase to albumin ratio (APAR) has not been investigated among hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergoing microwave ablation (MWA) as the initial therapy.
Methods
228 HCC patients undergoing MWA as the initial treatment were included in this study. Firstly, receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis was performed to identify the optimal cutoff values for APAR and other biomarkers. Then, the associations between APAR and clinicopathological variables were assessed. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier analysis was accomplished to evaluate the impacts of APAR on prognosis of HCC patients. Ultimately, Cox regression analysis was performed to identify independent prognostic factors for HCC patients.
Results
It was initially revealed that the optimal cutoff value for APAR was 2.44 (P < 0.001). Then it was demonstrated that high APAR was significantly associated with tumor size (P = 0.043). Subsequently, through Kaplan-Meier analysis, it was revealed that high APAR was significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS, P < 0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS, P < 0.001). Ultimately, along with tumor size (P = 0.018, HR = 2.292, 95%CI: 1.152–4.561), high APAR (P < 0.001, HR = 5.881, 95%CI: 3.093–11.185) was demonstrated to be an independent predictive factor for overall survival (OS). Similarly, along with Child-Pugh grade (P = 0.001, HR = 3.467, 95%CI: 1.705–7.050), GAR (P = 0.004, HR = 2.152, 95%CI: 1.281–3.613), and number of tumors (P = 0.015, HR = 2.678, 95%CI: 1.213–5.917), high APAR (P = 0.032, HR = 1.572, 95%CI: 1.040–2.377) was demonstrated to be an independent predictive factor for disease-free survival (DFS).
Conclusion
APAR was a reliable biomarker predicting survival of HCC patients.
Gypenosides inhibits the growth and induces apoptosis of glioma cells by promoting autophagy
Authors: Liu HaiYun , Ji YuLong , Lv QiaoLi , Chen JunJun , Du Hong , Wu JinTao , Lin QianXia , Fang YongQing , Wang LiChong , Yu Kai , Lu TianZhu , Zhang Zhe , Tan ZiLong , Wang DaPeng , Chen ShuHui
Published: March 2022

Gypenosides (Gyp), a Chinese medicine and an effective ingredient extracted from Gynostemma pentaphyllum, plays vital roles in the progression of various cancers. However, its biological functions and mechanisms in glioma remain unclear. We evaluated the anti-cancer mechanism of Gyp in glioma to determine its potential therapeutic value. In human glioma cells, we evaluated cell viability using MTS assays and cell mobility using Transwell invasion and scratch migration assays. Additionally, we assessed apoptosis using flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342 staining, and autophagy flow was detected by Fluorescence microscope. The levels of migration, apoptosis and autophagy-related protein were examinated by Western blot. Gyp inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of glioma cells by down-regulating the level of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9. Moreover, Gyp promoted apoptosis of glioma cells by inducing Bax and cleaved-caspase-9 activation and down-regulating Bcl-2. Notably, autophagy was activated by treating with Gyp in U251 and U87 cells through down-regulation of p62 protein and up-regulation of Beclin1 and LC3 II proteins. Interestingly, treatment with autophagy flux inhibitor Baf-A1 or 3-MA blocked the inhibitory effects of Gyp in glioma cells. Combined application of Gyp with Baf-A1 or 3-MA slightly increased cell death, suggesting that induction of autophagy impaired enzyme accumulation and contributed to the growth inhibition of glioma cells. In summary, Gyp suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion and induced apoptosis of glioma cells by promoting autophagy, suggested the potential value of Gyp in the combined treatment of glioma.
Reduced performance of community bednets against pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles funestus and Anopheles gambiae, major malaria vectors in Cameroon
Authors: Yipmo Emilie S. L. , Tchouakui Magellan , Menze Benjamin D. , Mugenzi Leon M.J , Njiokou Flobert , Wondji Charles S.
Published: March 2022

Background: Long-lasting insecticidal nets are a vital tool in the fight against malaria vectors. However, their efficacy in the field can be impacted by several factors including patterns of usage, net age, resistance, and the delayed mortality effect that could influence malaria transmission. Here, we investigated the effectiveness of various brands of LLINs from markets and households in Cameroon, on pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes and assessed their post-exposure effect.Methods: After quality control on susceptible lab strain, immediate and delayed mortality effects of LLINs (bought and collected from households in Elende in 2019) exposure were evaluated using standard WHO cone tests on Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles funestus populations collected from the Centre region of Cameroon. Alive female mosquitoes were genotyped for various resistance markers at different time-points post-exposure to evaluate the impact of insecticide resistance on the efficacy of bednets.Results and conclusion: High mortality rates were obtained with the laboratory susceptible strain when exposed to all pyrethroid-only brands of purchased nets (Olyset®Net, Super Net, PermaNet®2, Yorkool®, Royal Sentry®) (68.66 ± 8.35% to 93.33 ± 2.90%). However, low mortality was observed against wild An. funestus mosquitoes (0±0% to 28±6.7%) indicating a reduced performance of these nets against field mosquitoes. In addition, bednets collected from households showed reduced efficacy on the laboratory strain (19%- 66% mortality) and displayed a significant loss of efficacy against the local wild strains (mortality 0 ± 0% to 4 ± 2.6% for An. gambiae s.l. and 0 ± 0% to 8 ± 3.2% for An. funestus). However, compared to the unexposed group, mosquitoes exposed to bed nets showed a significantly reduced longevity indicating that the efficacy of these nets is not completely lost. CYP6P9a-RR and L119F-GSTe2 resistant mosquitoes had greater longevity after exposure to the Olyset net compared to their susceptible counterparts pointing the impact of resistance on bed nets efficacy and delay mortality. These findings present evidence of the actual impact of resistance on the quality and efficacy of LLINs in use in the community but also on the level of resistance of local vector populations to these nets highlighting the need to use new generation nets not relying only on pyrethroids.
Land use pattern optimization method in national territory spatial planning: A case study of Changzhi City, Shanxi Province
Authors: Wang Juan , Lv jiaqi , Zhang Wenping , Chen Tianqian , Yang Yang , Wu Jinjin
Published: March 2022

Land use pattern has always been affected by urban development, and its optimization is of great significance to high-quality urban development, but the land use structure in coal cities has been rarely explored. Changzhi City, as a central city in the southeast region of Shanxi Province, is a large coal province with a superior ecological environment. Under the background of land spatial planning and ecological civilization construction, the land use structure and ecological problems of this city have attracted great attention. This research aims to explore the land use structure optimization method and provide new ideas for the national territory spatial planning of Changzhi City. On the basis of the 2010–2018 land use data of Changzhi City, the current problems in land use are analyzed, the construction land intensiveness, the potential of cultivated land reserve resources, and the potential of rural construction land consolidation are evaluated, and GeoSOS-FLUS is used to justify the conversion of various land types, providing the focus and direction of land use structure optimization and layout adjustment. Results show that the spatial distribution of land in Changzhi City presents the “forest-farm-forest” characteristic, the construction land intensive utilization of Changzhi City is low, and the potential of rural construction land consolidation is high. In addition, the conversion probability of cultivated land in Tunliu district and the conversion probability of construction land close to Luzhou district are relatively higher, which can be used as key areas for the future development of Changzhi City. In the process of urban development, cultivated land protection and construction land demand should be balanced.
Observation and identification of autofluorescent urine crystals may be linked to a sign of urolithiasis
Authors: Chiang Huihua Kenny , Lin Syue-Liang , Chung Chen-Yuan , Chen Zih-Ting , Huang Chih-Chia , Li Yun-Zhen , Huang Eric Yi-Hsiu
Published: March 2022

Urolithiasis is a common disease of the urinary system. Its recurrence rate is high and may increase medical expenses. Urine stones are composed of urine crystals and other impurities. We discovered the existence of autofluorescence in some of the urine crystals, especially in urolithiasis patients. The fluorescent molecule existed in urine crystals was verified and identified. We have applied micro-Raman and fluorescence microscopy to classify the urine crystals, used confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) to examine the 3D images and spectra of autofluorescence in crystals, used Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and mass spectrometry (MS) to identify the type of fluorophore in the autofluorescent urine crystals in urine. Riboflavin was identified as one of the major fluorophores in these autofluorescent urine crystals. The prevalence rates of the autofluorescent crystals in urolithiasis patients and subjects without the history of urolithiasis were to gather statistics. We observed that 80% of urolithiasis patients had autofluorescent crystals. Contrastingly, such crystals existed in only 7% of subjects without the history of urolithiasis. The presence of autofluorescent urine crystals may be linked to a sign of urolithiasis.
Identification of hub genes in the subacute spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Yan Lei , Fu Jiawei , Dong Xiong , Chen Baishen , Hong Hongxiang , Cui Zhiming
Published: March 2022

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a common trauma in clinical practices. Subacute SCI is mainly characterized by neuronal apoptosis, axonal demyelination, Wallerian degeneration, axonal remodeling, and glial scar formation. It has been discovered in recent years that inflammatory responses are particularly important in subacute SCI. However, the mechanisms mediating inflammation are not completely clear.Methods: The gene expression profiles of GSE20907, GSE45006, and GSE45550 were downloaded from the GEO database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) were performed using R software, and functional enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were performed using Metascape. Module analysis was performed using Cytoscape. Finally, the relative mRNA expression level of central genes was verified by RT-PCR.Results: A total of 206 candidate genes were identified, including 164 up-regulated genes and 42 down-regulated genes. The PPI network was evaluated, and the candidate genes enrichment results were mainly related to the production of tumor necrosis factors and innate immune regulatory response. Twelve core genes were identified, including 10 up-regulated genes and 2 down-regulated genes. Finally, seven hub genes with statistical significance in both the RT-PCR results and expression matrix were identified, namely Itgb1, Ptprc, Cd63, Lgals3, Vav1, Shc1, and Casp4. They are all related to the activation process of microglia.Conclusion: In this study, we identified the hub genes and signaling pathways involved in subacute SCI using bioinformatics methods, which may provide a molecular basis for the future treatment of SCI.