bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of an Automatic Insulated Isothermal PCR System for Rapid and Reliable Field-Deployable Detection of African Swine Fever Virus
Authors: NGA TRAN THI HUYEN , NHI-CONG LE THI , PHUONG PHAM BANG , QUYNH LUU VAN , Nguyen Viet-Linh
Published: June 2021

In the present study, we evaluate an automatic sample-to-answer insulated isothermal PCR system for rapid and reliable field-deployable detection of African swine fever virus in comparison to that of OIE recommended real-time PCR counterparts with samples collected in Vietnam. For analytical sensitivity, the system could detect ASFV up to a dilution of 106 whereas the real time PCR systems could detect up to a dilution of 105 to 106. For specificity test, the system showed high specificity to ASFV in compare to different other types of swine pathogens: PRRSV, FMDV, PCV2, CSFV. The diagnostic performance comparison on 6 different types of samples showed 97.3% to 100% agreement with reference real-time PCR. The results of this study indicated that POCKIT Central-based insulated isothermal PCR system is a rapid, reliable and sample-flexible method for effective detection of ASFV.
N6-Methylandenosine-Related lncRNAs are Potential Biomarkers for Predicting the Overall Survival Rate of Patients Bladder Cancer
Authors: Zhang Haihang , Xie Panpan , Shi Kaijia , Xu Danni , Cai Xingrui , Yang Changcheng , Zeng Jiangzheng , Lu Yanda
Published: June 2021

Background: The prognostic value of N6-methylandenosine-related long non-coding RNAs (m6A-related lncRNAs) was investigated in 414 bladder cancer (BLCA) and 19 normal bladder tissue samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets. Methods: We implemented Pearson correlation analysis to explore the lncRNAs associated with m6A, and then performed univariate Cox regression analysis to identify nine m6A-associated lncRNAs with prognostic value. The patients with BLCA were divided into two subgroups by consistency clustering. Analysis of the two groups of immune cell infiltration, immune microenvironment and clinical results were significantly different. We identified the prognostic significance of m6A-related lncRNAs by bioinformatic and statistical analysis of data from patients with BLCA.Results: We constructed an m6A-related lncRNA prognostic signature (m6A-LPS, including AL136295.2, AC104564.3, ATP1B3-AS1, EHMT2-AS1 and AC116914.2) to predict the OS of BLCA patients. It is proved that m6A LPS has independent prognostic value.
The Impacts of Integrated Health Hydroponic Planting On Green Space Exposure, Happiness, Anxiety and Stress Among Secondary School Students: A Feasibility Quasi-Experiment
Authors: Kwok Stephen Wai Hang , Mak Yim Wah , Chiu Alice Pui Ying , Chong Yan Kit , Suen Lorna Kwai Ping , Kam Edmond , Wong Cecilia K.C. , Wu Cynthia Sau Ting
Published: June 2021

Background: Mental health of adolescents have been exposing to risk factors associated with stress from a variety of sources. Previous studies identified that green space exposure might be effective for promoting mental health and reduction of stress. However, previous literature focused on adults, and for those which studied children and adolescents, the effects of planting and similar green activities remain to be explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a pioneer school-based program on green space use and satisfaction, and mental wellbeing indicators, among early adolescent students. Methods: This was a feasibility quasi-experiment in which intervention and control groups were studied sequentially. Three secondary schools and 55 grade 7-8 students were sampled conveniently. In the intervention school, the green space program consists of learning hydroponic planting and group practice in creating green areas at school. In the two control schools, the activities consisted of a standardized stress management program including relaxation exercise such as stretching, extension and massage. Both groups learned green diet, tasting and had green living activity, stress awareness games and learned stress coping. The activity schedule for each group (intervention and control) consisted of three one-hour sessions, each was conducted two to three weeks apart. Key outcomes were assessed with questionnaires at baseline and one month after the completion of the activity period as for each school. Data were fit with mixed model applying GEE. Results: At baseline, students were not sure whether they know how to plant herbs or prepare herbal tea. Control group at posttest had lower frequencies of using green facilities in the community and using school gardening facilities in the previous four weeks compared with intervention group and pretest. Females at posttest were associated with higher confidence in planting, and higher level of enjoyment from green activities. Other moderate to small but non-significant effects were also identified. Conclusions: In this study, the school-based green space programme was found feasible for early adolescent students with statistically supported results. Limitations have also been identified and future study with larger scale, more frequent intervention, longer follow-up and RCT design are required.
Lesion of The Hippocampus Selectively Enhances LEC's Activity During Recognition Memory Based On Familiarity
Authors: Mahnke Liv , Atucha Erika , Pina-Fernàndez Eneko , Kitsukawa Takashi , Sauvage Magdalena M.
Published: June 2021

The sense of familiarity for events is crucial for successful recognition memory. However, the neural substrate and mechanisms supporting familiarity remain unclear. A major controversy in memory research is whether the parahippocampal areas, especially the lateral entorhinal (LEC) and the perirhinal (PER) cortices, support familiarity or whether the hippocampus (HIP) does. In addition, it is unclear if LEC, PER and HIP interact within this frame. Here, we especially investigate if LEC and PER's contribution to familiarity depends on hippocampal integrity. To do so, we compare LEC and PER neural activity between rats with intact hippocampus performing on a human to rat translational task relying on both recollection and familiarity and rats with hippocampal lesions that have been shown to then rely on familiarity to perform the same task. Using high resolution Immediate Early Gene imaging, we report that hippocampal lesions enhance activity in LEC during familiarity judgments but not PER’s. These findings suggest that different mechanisms support familiarity in LEC and PER and led to the hypothesis that HIP might exert a tonic inhibition on LEC during recognition memory that is released when HIP is compromised, possibly constituting a compensatory mechanism in aging and amnesic patients.
Richards' equation reconsidered
Authors: Vodák Rostislav , Fürst Tomáš , Šír Miloslav , Kmec Jakub
Published: June 2021

Semi-continuum modelling of unsaturated porous media flow is based on representing the porous medium as a grid of non-infinitesimal blocks that retain the character of a porous medium. Semi-continuum model is able to physically correctly describe diffusion-like flow, finger-like flow, and the transition between them. This article presents the limit of the semi-continuum model as the block size goes to zero. In the limiting process, the retention curve of each block scales with the block size and in the limit becomes a hysteresis operator of the Prandtl-type used in elasto-plasticity models. Mathematical analysis showed that the limit of the semi-continuum model is a partial differential equation with a hysteresis operator of Prandl's type. This limit differs from the standard Richards' Equation (RE), which is not able to describe finger-like flow.
Since the physics behind both RE and the semi-continuum model is almost the same, we suggest a way to reformulate the RE so that it retains the ability to describe finger-like flow. We conclude that RE should be reconsidered by means of appropriate modelling of the hysteresis and correct scaling of the retention curve.
Potential of Prevention Strategies for the Modifiable Risk Factor Type 2 Diabetes on the Future Number of Dementia Patients in Germany– A Multi-State Projection Through 2040
Authors: Fink Anne , Demuth Ilja , Doblhammer Gabriele
Published: June 2021

Background: We assess the impact of prevention strategies regarding type 2 diabetes as a modifiable risk factor for dementia and its consequences for the future number of dementia patients in Germany. Methods: We used a random sample of health claims data (N=250,000) of insured persons aged 50+ drawn in 2014, and data on population size and death rates in 2015 from the Human Mortality Database. Using exponential hazard models, we calculated age- and sex-specific transition probabilities and death rates between the states (no diabetes/no dementia, diabetes/no dementia, no diabetes/dementia, diabetes/dementia). In multi-state projections, we estimated the future number of dementia cases aged 75+ through 2040 depending on the development of the incidence of diabetes among persons without diabetes and without dementia, and the dementia incidence among persons with and without diabetes. Results: In 2015 there were 1.34 million people with dementia aged 75+ in Germany. A relative annual reduction in death rates of 2.5% will increase this number to 2.68 million by 2040. A relative reduction of diabetes incidence by 1% annually would decrease dementia cases by around 26,000, while a reduction of dementia incidence among people with diabetes by 1% would result in 175,000 fewer dementia cases. Both prevention strategies combined would prevent 191,000 dementia cases in 2040.Conclusions: The increase in life expectancy is decisive for the future number of people with dementia. Strategies of better diabetes treatment have the potential to lower the number of dementia patients in the coming decades.
Quantifying Root Colonization in Arbuscular Mycorrhizas by Image Segmentation and Machine Learning
Authors: Sciascia Ivan Arcangelo , Andrea Crosino , Novero Mara , Politi Mara , Genre Andrea
Published: June 2021

MotivationArbuscular mycorrhizas are the most widespread plant symbioses and involve the majority of crop plants. The beneficial interaction between plant roots and a group of soil fungi (Glomeromycotina) grants the green host a preferential access to soil mineral nutrients and water, supporting plant health, biomass production and resistance to both abiotic and biotic stresses. The nutritional exchanges at the core of this symbiosis take place inside the living root cells, which are diffusely colonized by specialized fungal structures called arbuscules. For this reason, the vast majority of studies investigating arbuscular mycorrhizas and their applications in agriculture require a precise quantification of the intensity of root colonization. To this aim, several manual methods have been used for decades to estimate the extension of intraradical fungal structures, mostly based on optical microscopy observations and individual assessment of fungal abundance in the root tissues. ResultsHere we propose a novel semi-automated approach to quantify AM colonization based on digital image analysis and compare two methods based on image thresholding and machine learning. Our results indicate in machine learning a very promising tool for accelerating, simplifying and standardizing this critical type of analysis, with a direct potential interest for applicative and basic research.Contactivan.sciascia@unito.it; andrea.genre@unito.it
Seamens’ Sign: A Novel Electrocardiogram Prediction Tool for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Walker Philip , Jenkins Cathy , Hatcher Jeremy , Freeman Clifford , Sr Nickolas , Rosell Bryant , Hanna Eriny , March Cooper , Robinson Taylor , Wollenman Lucas , Pfister Tyler , Pope Rand , Azose Aaron , Henry Olivia , O'Shea Jessica , Kunnath Ansley , Storrow Alan , Seamens Charles , McCoin Nicole
Published: June 2021

Study Objective:

We developed a novel, quick, easy to use electrocardiogram (ECG) screening criterion (Seamens’ Sign) for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). This new criterion was defined as the presence of QRS complexes touching or overlapping in two contiguous precordial leads.
Methods:

This study was a retrospective chart review of 2184 patient records. The primary outcome was whether Seamens’ Sign was noninferior in confirming LVH compared to other common criteria. Test characteristics were calculated for each of the LVH criteria. Inter-rater agreement was assessed on a random sample using Cohen’s Kappa.
Results:

Median age was 63, 52% of patients were male and there was a 35% prevalence of LVH by transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE). Nine percent were positive for LVH on ECG based on Seamens’ Sign. Seamens’ Sign had a specificity of 0.92. Tests assessing noninferiority indicated Seamens’ Sign was non-inferior to all criteria (p < 0.001) except for Cornell criterion for women (p = 0.98). Seamens’ Sign had 90% (0.81-1.00) inter-rater agreement, the highest of all criteria in this study.
Conclusion:

When compared to both the Sokolow-Lyon criteria and the Cornell criterion for men, Seamens’ Sign is noninferior in ruling in LVH on ECG. Additionally, Seamens’ Sign has higher inter-rater agreement compared to both Sokolow-Lyon criteria as well as the Cornell criteria for men and women, perhaps related to its ease of use.
The Effect of Early Mobilisation on the Sagittal Alignment and Clinical Outcome Following Conservative Treatment of the AO A3 and A4 Thoracolumbar Spine Fracture in Comparison to A1 Fractures. A Retrospective Study
Authors: Elshamly Mahmoud , Toegel Stefan , Grohs Josef G
Published: June 2021

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to correlate the clinical and radiological outcomes following the conservative treatment of neurologically intact patients with AO A4, A3, and A1 thoracolumbar (TL) fractures.MethodsRetrospective study included 3 cohorts of conservatively treated patients with AO A4, A3, and A1 TL fracture without the use of bracing or casting. At the final follow up segmental kyphotic angle (SKA), regional lordotic angle (RLA), lordosis gap (LG), pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), lumbar lordosis (LL), thoracic kyphosis (TK), and femoral obliquity angle (FOA), and the Oswestry disability index (ODI) were assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, non-parametric inferential statistics, and Spearman correlation analyses.ResultsAge was significantly higher in A4 group than in A1 group (p=0.04). The median 1ry SKA of the A3 group (15 ± 3) was significantly higher than in A1 group (7 ± 7, p=0.04). The median of total ODI in the A4 group (42 ± 53) and A3 group (31.3 ± 27) was clinically higher than in A1 group (11.1 ± 25), however, this difference was not statistically significant. Age as well as SVA correlated significantly with PT, FOA, SKA at the follow up, and the total ODI.ConclusionAge of the patient is a significant confounder that has an important impact on the type of fracture, sagittal malalignment, its compensatory mechanisms, and the resulting clinical outcome following conservative treatment of AO A4 and A3 TL fracture.
In-Vivo Staging of Regional Amyloid Progression In Healthy Middle Aged To Older People At Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Levin Fedor , Jelistratova Irina , Betthauser Tobey J. , Okonkwo Ozioma , Johnson Sterling C. , Teipel Stefan J. , Grothe Michel J.
Published: June 2021

Background We investigated regional amyloid staging characteristics in 11C-PiB-PET data from middle-aged to older participants at elevated risk for AD enrolled in the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention. Methods We analyzed partial volume effect-corrected 11C-PiB-PET distribution volume ratio maps from 220 participants (mean age = 61.4y, range: 46.9-76.8y). Regional amyloid-positivity was established using region-specific thresholds. We used four stages from frequency-based staging of amyloid-positivity to characterize individual amyloid deposition. Longitudinal PET data was used to assess temporal progression of stages and to evaluate emergence of regional amyloid-positivity in participants who were amyloid-negative at baseline. We also assessed the effect of amyloid stage on longitudinal cognitive trajectories.Results The staging model suggested progressive accumulation of amyloid from associative to primary neocortex and gradually involving subcortical regions. Longitudinal PET measurements supported the cross-sectionally estimated amyloid progression. In mixed-effects longitudinal analysis of cognitive follow-up data obtained over an average period of 6.5 years following the baseline PET measurement, amyloid stage II showed a faster decline in executive function and advanced amyloid stages (III and IV) showed a faster decline across multiple cognitive domains compared to stage 0.Conclusions Overall, the 11C-PiB-PET-based staging model was generally consistent with previously derived models from 18F-labled amyloid PET scans and a longitudinal course of amyloid accumulation. Differences in longitudinal cognitive decline support the potential clinical utility of in-vivo amyloid staging for risk stratification of the preclinical phase of AD even in middle-aged to older individuals at risk for AD.
Comparison of Sampling Methods in Assessing the Microbiomefrom Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Kim Dan , Jung Jun-Young , Oh Hyun-Seok , Jee Sam-Ryong , Park Sung Jae , Lee Sang-Heon , Yoon Jun-Sik , Yu Seung Jung , Yoon In-Cheol , Lee Hong Sub
Published: June 2021

Background: Dysbiosis of ulcerative colitis (UC) has been frequently investigated using readily accessible stool samples. However, stool samples might insufficiently represent the mucosa-associated microbiome status. We hypothesized that luminal contents including loosely adherent luminal bacteria after bowel preparation may be suitable for diagnosing the dysbiosis of UC.Methods: This study included 16 patients with UC (9 men and 7 women, mean age: 52.13 ± 14.09 years) and 15 sex- and age-matched healthy individuals (8 men and 7 women, mean age: 50.93 ± 14.11 years). They donated stool samples before colonoscopy and underwent luminal content aspiration and endoscopic biopsy during the colonoscopy. Then, the composition of each microbiome sample was analyzed by 16S rRNA-based next-generation sequencing.Results: The microbiome between stool, luminal contents, and biopsy was significantly different in alpha and beta diversities. However, a correlation existed between stool and luminal contents in the Procrustes test (p = 0.001) and Mantel test (p = 0.0001). The stool microbiome was different between patients with UC and the healthy controls. Conversely, no difference was found in the microbiome of luminal content and biopsy samples between the two subject groups. The microbiome of stool and lavage predicted UC, with AUC values of 0.85 and 0.81, respectively.Conclusion: The microbiome of stool, luminal contents, and biopsy was significantly different. However, the microbiome of luminal contents during colonoscopy can predict UC, with AUC values of 0.81. Colonoscopic luminal content aspiration analysis could determine microbiome differences between patients with UC and the healthy control, thereby beneficial in screening dysbiosis via endoscopy. Trial registration: This trial was registered at http://cris.nih.go.kr.Registration No.: KCT0003352), Date : 2018-11-13
Exosomal Micro RNA-107 Reverses Chemotherapeutic Drug Resistance of Gastric Cancer Cells Through HMGA2/mTOR/P-gp Pathway
Authors: Jiang Lu , Zhang Yan , Guo Linghui , Liu Chaoyang , Ren Weihong
Published: June 2021

Background: RNA cargo in exosomes，especially microRNAs (miRNAs), play an important role in the chemotherapy drug resistance of human cancers. However, the role and mechanism of exosomal miR-107 on multidrug resistance of gastric cancer cells was still not clear. In this study, we sought to explore whether exosomal miR-107 could reverse theresistance of gastric cancer cells to the chemotherapy drugs. Methods: We extracted exosomes from sensitive (SGC-7901, MGC-803) and resistant (SGC-7901/5-FU) gastric cancer cells by ultracentrifugation and the isolated exosomes were identified using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering analysis (DLS). The expression of miR-107 and high mobility group A2 (HMGA2) were detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). MTT assay was used to investigate the effect of exosomes on gastric cancer cells growth in vitro. The uptake of exosomes by recipient cells were observed using a fluorescence microscope. The predicted target relationship between miR-107 and HMGA2 was verified by gauss-luciferase reporter assay. The expression of HMGA2, p-mTOR/mTOR, P-gp and other exosomal indicated marker proteins were detected by western blot. Results: Our results indicated that the isolated exosomes were demostrated typically cup-like lipid bilayer membrans structure. SGC-7901/5-FU cells were cross-resistant to chemotherapy drug cisplatin (DDP), and the sensitive cells-secreted exosomes drastically reversed the resistance of the resistant gastric cells to the chemotherapeutic drugs,which was verificated by exosomal inhibitor GW4896. Mechanistically, the reversal effect were mainly mediated by exosome-secreted miR-107 through downregulating the expression of targert molecular HMGA2, and inhibiting HMGA2/mTOR/P-gp pathway, which were proofed by luciferase reporter assay and rescue assay. Conclusions: These findings demonstrated that exosome-transmitted miR-107 significantly enhanced the sensitivity of resistant gastric cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents by mediating the HMGA2/mTOR/P-gp axis and appling exosomal miR-107 may be a novel target in gastric cancers treatment.
L-Carnitine Ameliorates the Muscle Wasting of Cancer Cachexia through the AKT/FOXO3a/MaFbx Axis
Authors: Wu Changpeng , Zhu Mingxing , Lu Zongliang , Zhang Yaowen , Li Long , Li Na , Yin Liangyu , Wang He , Song Wei , Xu Hongxia
Published: June 2021

Recent studies suggest potential benefits of applying L-carnitine in the treatment of cancer cachexia, but the precise mechanisms remain unknown. This study was conducted to determine the mechanism by which L-carnitine reduces cancer cachexia. We found that L-carnitine increased the gastrocnemius muscle (GM) weight in the CT-26-bearing cachexia mouse model and the cross-sectional fiber area (CFA) of the GM and myotube diameters of C2C12 cells treated with TNF-α. Additionally, L-carnitine reduced the protein expression of muscle RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase 1 (MuRF1), muscle atrophy F-box protein (MaFbx) and FOXO3a, and increased the p-FOXO3a level in vivo and in vitro, indicating that L-carnitine inhibits muscle protein ubiquitination in models of cachexia. Inhibition of Akt, upstream of FOXO3a, reversed the effects of L-carnitine on the FOXO3a/MaFbx pathway and myotube diameters, without affecting FOXO3a/MuRF-1. In addition to regulating the ubiquitination of muscle proteins, L-carnitine also increased the levels of p-p70S6K and p70S6K, which are involved in protein synthesis. Akt inhibition did not reverse the effects of L-carnitine on p70S6K. Hence, L-carnitine ameliorated cancer cachexia via the Akt/FOXO3/MaFbx and p70S6K pathways. Moreover, L-carnitine reduced the serum levels of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), factors known to induce cancer cachexia. However, there were minimal effects on TNF-α, another inducer of cachexia. Taken together, these results revealed a novel mechanism of action by which L-carnitine protects muscle cells and reduces inflammation related to cancer cachexia.
Assessment of Iron Overload in a Cohort of Sri Lankan Patients with Transfusion Dependent Beta Thalassaemia and its Correlation with Pathogenic Variants in HBB, HFE, SLC40A1, and TFR2 Genes
Authors: Dissanayake Ruwangi , Samarasinghe Nayana , Waidyanatha Samantha , Pathirana Sajeewani , Dissanayake Vajira HW , Wettasinghe Kalum , Gooneratne Lallindra , Wickramasinghe Pujitha
Published: June 2021

Background. Iron overload (IO) is a complication in transfusion dependent beta thalassaemmia (TDT). Pathogenic variants in genes involving iron metabolism may confer increased risk of IO. The objective of this study was to determine the magnitude of the cardiac and hepatic IO and determine whether pathogenic variants in HFE, SLC40A1 and TFR2 genes increase the risk of IO in a cohort of TDT patients in Sri Lanka.Materials and Methods. Fifty-seven (57) patients with TDT were recruited for this study. Serum ferritin was done once in 3 months for one year in all. Those who were ≥ 8 years of age underwent T2* MRI of the liver and heart. Fifty-two (52) patients underwent next generation sequencing (NGS) to identify pathogenic variants in HBB, HFE, SLC40A1 and TFR2 genes.Results. The mean age (SD) of this cohort was 9.5 (±4.6) years. It comprised of 30 (52.6%) boys and 27 (47.4%) girls. The mean serum ferritin was 3405 (±2670.5) ng/dl. Hepatic IO was seen in 38 (95%) patients and cardiac IO was seen in 17 (42.5%) patients. All patients with cardiac IO were asymptomatic and had normal echocardiogrammes. There was no statistically significant correlation between serum ferritin and hepatic or cardiac IO.32 (61.5%), 18 (34.6%), 2 (3.8%) of patients were homozygotes, compound heterozygotes and heterozygotes for pathogenic variants in the HBB gene. 9 (17.3%) and 3 (5.8%) patients were heterozygotes for pathogenic variants of HFE and SLC40A1 genes respectively. There were no pathogenic variants for the TfR2 gene. The heterozygotes of the pathogenic variants of the HFE and SLC40A1 genes were not at increased risk of IO.Conclusions. Cardiac T2* MRI helps to detect cardiac IO prior to the onset of symptoms when the echocardiogramme is normal. It is important to perform hepatic and cardiac MRI T2* to detect IO in patients with TDT.
Landslide Hazard Zonation and Evaluation Around Debre Markos Town, NW Ethiopia—A GIS-Based Statistical Approach
Authors: Manderso Dawit Asmare
Published: June 2021

The main goal of this research was to perform a landslide hazard zonation and evaluation around Debre Markos town, North West Ethiopia, found about 300 km from the capital city Addis Ababa. To achieve the aim, a GIS-based probabilistic statistical technique was used to rate the governing factors, followed by geoprocessing in the GIS setting to produce the landslide hazard zonation map. In this research, eight internal causative and external triggering factors were selected: slope material (lithology and soil mass), elevation, aspect, slope, land use land cover, curvature, distance to fault, and distance to drainage. Data were collected from field mapping, secondary maps, and digital elevation models. Systematic and detailed fieldwork had been done for image interpretation and inventory mapping. Accordingly, the past landslides map of the research area was prepared. All influencing factors were statistically analyzed to determine their relationship to previous landslides. The results revealed that 17.15% (40.60 km2), 25.53% (60.45 km2), 28.04% (66.39 km2), 18.93% (44.83 km2), and 10.36% (24.54 km2) of the research area falls under no hazard, low hazard, moderate hazard, high hazard, and very high hazard respectively. The validation of the landslide hazard zonation map reveals that 1%, 2%, 3%, and 94% of past landslides fall in no hazard zone, low hazard, moderate hazard zone, and high hazard or very high hazard zones respectively. The validation of the landslide hazard zonation map thus, it has been adequately demonstrated that the adopted approach has produced acceptable results. The defined hazard zones can practically be utilized for land management and infrastructure construction in the study area.
Decoupled Soil Labile Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics Triggered by Urban Vegetation
Authors: Dou Xiaolin , Lu Meng , Chen Liding
Published: June 2021

Purpose Studies about soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics with land use change are urgently needed for urban ecosystems. We used fractionation of soils combined with stable isotopic analysis to examine soil C and N cycles after decadal forest and lawn planting in the Pearl River Delta, China. Methods Soil samples from bare soil (CK) and four land use treatments (55 and 20 years of forest plantation, F-55 and F-20; 55 and 20 years of lawn plantation, L-55 and L-20) were split into different chemical fractions. Then we analyzed the C and N contents, C/N ratio, δ13C and δ15N, C and N recalcitrant indices (RIC, RIN), and a C pool management index (CPMI).Results Forest vegetation substantially enhanced soil organic carbon (SOC) caused by the recalcitrant (RC) and labile C (LC) pools, while the larger soil organic nitrogen (SON) was ascribed to the increased recalcitrant N (RN). Enhanced LC but minor changes in labile N (LN) suggested a decoupled C and N in labile fractions of the forest soils. In contrast, the larger LN, and the enhanced decomposition of SOC, indicated that the lawns may have inhibited N mineralization of labile pools, also suggesting a decoupled C and N turnover and leading to low RIN values. Conclusions Urban forest and lawn plantations significantly changed the soil C and N dynamics, and emphasized the inconsistency between C and N processes, especially in labile pools, which would eventually lead to minor changes in N and limit the ecosystem C sequestration.
Extracorporeal CO2 Removal in Acute Exacerbation of COPD Not Responding to Non-Invasive Ventilation: a Single Center Experience
Authors: Azzi Mathilde , Aboab Jerome , Alviset Sophie , Ushmorova Daria , Ferreira Luis , Ioos Vincent , Memain Nathalie , Issoufaly Tazime , Lermuzeaux Mathilde , Laine Laurent , Serbouti Rita , Silva Daniel
Published: June 2021

Background: Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (ae-COPD) has a gold standard treatment: non-invasive ventilation (NIV). However, this treatment sometime fails, and an invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) is required. The extracorporeal CO₂ removal (ECCO₂R) device can be an alternative to intubation. The aim of the study is to evaluate ECCO₂R efficiency and safety and enlighten ECCO₂R benefit/risk compared to IMV.Methods: Consecutive ae-COPD patients for whom NIV failed were retrospectively analyzed during two periods: before and after the ECCO₂R device implementation in our ICU in 2015. We considered the before period as standard of care and patients were treated with IMV. The ECCO₂R device was a pump-driven veno-venous system (Xenios AG).Results: The two groups (ECCO₂R n = 26 and Control group n = 25) were comparable at baseline except for the BMI which was significantly higher in the ECCO₂R group (30kg/m² versus 25kg/m²). The pH and PaCO₂ improved significantly in both groups. The mean time on ECCO₂R was 5,4 days whereas IMV lasted 27 days in the control group. Four patients needed IMV in the ECCO₂R group (of which 3 occurred after ECCO₂R weaning). There were 7 major bleeding events with ECCO₂R and 3 led to premature termination of ECCO₂R. In the control group, there were 8 ventilator associated pneumonia, 25 haemodynamic instability and 6 self extubations. The mean time in ICU and hospital stay in the ECCO₂R and control groups were 18 vs 30 days, 29 vs 49 days, respectively and the 90-day mortality rates were 15% vs 28%.Conclusions: ECCO₂R brings significant improvement on pH and PaCO₂ in ae-COPD patients failing NIV therapy and permit to avoid intubation in 85% with low complication rates compared to IMV. These results have yet to be proven in a larger randomized study.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04882410. Date of registration May 12th 2021, Retrospectively registered.https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04882410
Evaluation of the Implementation of a Multidisciplinary Fast Track Program for Geriatric Acute Hip Fracture Patients at a University Hospital in Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Sura-amonrattana Unchana , Tharmviboonsri Theerawoot , Unnanuntana Aasis , Tantigate Direk , Srinonpras Varalak
Published: June 2021

Background: Hip fractures are common among frail, older people and associated with multiple adverse outcomes, including death. Timely and appropriate care by a multidisciplinary team may improve outcomes. Implementing a team to jointly deliver the service in resource-limited settings is challenging, particularly on the effectiveness of patient outcomes. Methods: A retrospective cohort study to compare outcomes of hip fracture patients aged 65 or older admitted at Siriraj hospital pre- and post-implementation of the Fast-track program. The primary outcome was the incidence of medical complications. The secondary outcomes were time to surgery, factors related to the occurrence of various complications, in-hospital mortality, and mortality at month 3, month 6 and month 12 after the operation. Results: 302 patients were enrolled from the Siriraj hospital’s database between October 2016 and October 2018; 151 patients in each group with a mean age of 80 years were analyzed. Clinical parameters were similar between groups except the Fast-track group comprising more patients with dementia (37.1% VS 23.8%, p<0.012). In the Fast-track group, there was a significantly higher proportion of patients underwent surgery within 72-hours (80.3% VS 44.7%, p<0.001) and the length of stay was significantly shorter (11 days (8-17) VS 13 days (9-18), p=0.017). There was no significant difference in medical complications and mortality. Stratified analysis by dementia status showed a trend in delirium reduction in both demented and non-demented groups, and a pressure injury reduction among patients with dementia after the program was implemented but there was no statistical significance.Conclusions: The implementation of a multidisciplinary team for hip fracture patients is feasible in resource-limited settings. In the Fast-track system, time to surgery was reduced and the length of stay was shortened. Other outcome benefits were not shown, which may be due to incomplete uptake of all involved disciplines.
Cough Hypersensitivity in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome: A Clinical Finding and Its Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Cheng Jiafen , Xie Zhuangli , Wang Shengyuan , Wen Siwan , Niu Shanshan , Shi Cuiqin , Yu Li , Xu Xianghuai
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate the changes of cough sensitivity in patients with metabolic syndrome and its possible mechanisms. Method: A total of 29 metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients with OSAHS (group-1), 22 MetS patients without OSAHS (group-2), and 25 healthy controls (group-3) were included. All participants underwent a routine physical examination and completed the gastroesophageal reflux disease questionnaire (GerdQ), and the inflammatory mediator profile were determined. The cough threshold for capsaicin, induced sputum cell count and cell classification, and inflammatory mediators in induced sputum supernatants were compared. The correlation between capsaicin cough sensitivity and various indicators in the MetS population was analyzed. Results: The minimum concentration of inhaled capsaicin needed to induce ≥2 coughs (C2) was significantly different among three groups (H = 13.856, P < 0.001) and lower for group-1 and group-2 than it for group-3 (P = 0.001, P = 0.003), which was similar with the C5 concentrations (the minimum concentration of inhaled capsaicin needed to induce ≥5 coughs). The percentage of neutrophils in induced sputum and the concentrations of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP), and interleukin 8 (IL-8) in the sputum supernatant of group-1 and group-2 were significantly higher than those of group-3. Besides, the pepsin concentrations were significantly different among the 3 groups (F = 129.362, P < 0.001), which significantly was highest in group-1(P < 0.001) and lowest in group-3 (P < 0.001). In group-1, lgC2 and lgC5 were both negatively correlated with the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI, r = -0.577, P = 0.001; r = -0.394, P = 0.035). Conclusion: Increased capsaicin cough sensitivity in MetS patients is closely related to sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux. For patients in MetS patients without OSAHS, gastroesophageal reflux is an important factor for increased capsaicin cough sensitivity. Airway inflammation, especially airway neurogenic inflammation, may also play a role in the pathogenesis of increased capsaicin cough sensitivityTrial registration: The protocol was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trials Register (http://www. chictr. org. cn/) (ChiCTR1800014768). Written informed consent was obtained from all participants before enrollment.
Are Optimised CBCT Protocols Suitable to Detect Simulated Vertical Root Fracture in the Presence of Metal Outside and/or Inside the Fov?
Authors: Candemil Amanda Pelegrin , Salmon Benjamin , Vasconcelos Karla F , Oenning Anne C , Jacobs Reinhilde , Freitas Deborah Q , Haiter-Neto Francisco , Mangione Francesca , Oliveira Matheus L
Published: June 2021

Dose optimisation has been revisited in the literature due to the high frequency of cone-beam CT (CBCT) scans and, the reduction of the field-of-view (FOV) size has shown to be an effective strategy. However, small FOV scans have negative influences of the truncation effect from the exomass.The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of an optimised CBCT protocol for the detection of simulated vertical root fracture (VRF) in the presence of metallic artefacts from the exomass and/or endomass.Twenty teeth were endodontically instrumented and VRF was induced in half of them. All teeth were individually placed in a human mandible, metallic materials were placed in the exomass and/or endomass, and CBCT scans were obtained at two dose protocols: standard and optimised. Three radiologists evaluated the images and indicated the presence of VRF using a 5-point scale. Sensitivity, specificity and area under the ROC curve (AUC) were obtained and compared using ANOVA (α=0.05). Overall, sensitivity, specificity and AUC did not differ significantly (p>0.05) between the dose protocols.In conclusion, optimised protocols should be considered in the detection of simulated VRF irrespective of the occurrence of artefacts from metallic materials in the exomass and/or endomass.
The Impact of a Faculty Development Program, the Leadership in Academic Medicine Program (LAMP), On Self-Efficacy, Academic Promotion and Institutional Retention
Authors: Tung Judy , Nahid Musarrat , Rajan Mangala , Logio Lia
Published: June 2021

BackgroundAcademic medical centers invest considerably in faculty development efforts to support the career success and promotion of their faculty and to minimize faculty attrition. This study evaluated the impact of a faculty development program called the Leadership in Academic Medicine Program (LAMP) on participants’ (1) self-ratings of efficacy, (2) promotion in academic rank, and (3) institutional retention. MethodParticipants from the 2013-2020 LAMP cohorts were surveyed pre and post program to assess their level of agreement with statements that spanned domains of self-awareness, self-efficacy, satisfaction with work and work environment. Pre and post responses were compared using McNemar’s tests. Changes in scores across gender were compared using Wilcoxon Rank Sum/Mann-Whitney tests.LAMP participants were matched to nonparticipant controls by gender, rank, department, and time of hire to compare promotions in academic rank and departures from the organization. Kaplan Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine differences. ResultsThere were significant improvements in almost all self-ratings on program surveys (p < 0.05). Greatest improvements were seen in “understand the promotions process” (36% vs. 94%), “comfortable negotiating” (35% vs. 74%), and “time management” (55% vs. 92%). There were no statistically significant differences in improvements by gender, however women faculty rated themselves lower on all pre-program items than men.There was significant difference found in time-to-next promotion (p = 0.003) between LAMP participants and controls. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that LAMP faculty achieved next promotion more often and faster than controls. Cox-proportional-hazards analyses found that LAMP faculty were 61% more likely to get promoted than controls (hazard ratio [HR] 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16-2.23, p-value= 0.004).There was significant difference found in time-to-departure (p<0.0001) with LAMP faculty retained more often and for longer periods. LAMP faculty were 77% less likely to leave compared to controls (HR 0.23, 95% CI 0.16-0.34, p<0.0001).ConclusionsLAMP is an effective faculty development program as measured subjectively by participant self-ratings and objectively through comparative improvements in academic promotions and institutional retention.
How Can We Meet the Needs of Young People in Vulnerable 'NEET' Situations? A Realist Research Protocol to Evaluate the Delivery and Implementation of (Re)Engagement Initiatives in Northern Sweden
Authors: Jonsson Frida , Hjelte Jan , Sundberg Linda Richter , Nordström Annika , Goicolea Isabel
Published: June 2021

Background

Situated in the northern Swedish context, the project presented in this protocol aims to explore and establish how multi-component ‘(re)engagement’ initiatives work, while providing directions for strengthening the delivery and implementation to better meet the needs of young people in vulnerable ‘NEET’ situations (‘not in employment, education or training’). In this regard, the research emerges from international and national concerns about the challenges faced by young people who are marginalised from mainstream institutions. It is also a response to the ‘(re)engagement’ initiatives that have been implemented, but never rigorously evaluated, in Sweden, which means a substantial body of relevant knowledge is at risk of being lost, and that we currently lack evidence about what works to reengage young people that are neither studying nor working.
Methods

To address the aim and three subsequent research questions, two methodologies will be combined in three phases. Following an iterative analytical process, where results from a realist evaluation will inform a concept mapping study, the project will involve: 1) a realist review of international academic and grey literature to identify underlying programme theories and explore how ‘(re)engagement’ initiatives are expected to work; 2) a realism-based case study to scrutinise the programme theories and assess whether the ‘(re)engagement’ initiatives work as intended; and 3) a participatory concept mapping study to provide directions for strengthening the delivery and implementation of ‘(re)engagement’ initiatives in northern Sweden.
Discussion

While ‘(re)engagement’ initiatives may not be a solution to the problems that exist in labour markets and educational systems today, they may be a partial and perhaps provisional saviour for young people who have already ended up at the margins of society. By evaluating how these initiatives work while providing directions for action, the current project will contribute knowledge useful to improve the support to young people in vulnerable ‘NEET’ situations who need the courage to dare enter a world that has let them down once before.
Testing the Bounds of Compassion in Young Children
Authors: Kirby James N. , Wilks Matti , Green Mitchell , Tanjitpiyanond Porntida , Chowdhury Nafisa , Kirkland Kelly , Nielsen Mark
Published: June 2021

Extensive research shows that, under the right circumstances, children are highly prosocial. Less in known about their capacity for compassion. Across five experiments (N = 285), we aimed to capture the bounds of 4-5-year-old children’s compassionate behaviour. In the first three experiments we varied cost of compassion by changing the reward (study 1), using explicit instructions (study 2), and ownership (study 3). In the final two experiments we varied the target of the compassionate behaviour, examining adults compared to puppet targets (study 4), and whether the target was an in-group member (study 5). We found strong evidence that cost reduces compassionate responding. By contrast, the recipient of compassion did not appear to influence compassionate responding: children were equally likely to help a human adult and a puppet, and an in-group member and neutral agent. Thus, personal cost appears to be a greater inhibitor to compassionate responding than who compassion is directed toward. These findings demonstrate the environmental factors that may reduce compassionate responding in young children, and call for careful consideration of how to mitigate these to create more positive and socially connected environments for children to flourish.
Development of a miR-3648-Targeted Immune-Related 4-Gene Signature as a Prognostic Biomarker in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma Based on ehe WGCNA Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Donglei , Yin Hang , Xu Ping , Qian Xiaozhe
Published: June 2021

Background: Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) has a poor prognosis and is a typical immunogenic malignant tumor. Abnormal expression of miR-3648 has been reported in EA, but its value in prognosis prediction and immune cell infiltration imbalance mediation is still unknown. We aimed to mine immune-related genes (IRGs) targeted by miR-3648 and construct a multigene signature to improve the prognostic prediction of EA.Methods: The gene expression data of EA tumor or normal tissues from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and GTEx database were downloaded. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), the CIBERSORT algorithm and Cox regression analysis were applied to identify IRGs and to construct a prognostic signature and nomogram.Results: miR-3648 was obviously highly expressed in EA tumor tissues and was correlated with patient survival time [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09-1.49, p = 0.002]. A total of 70 miR-3648-targeted genes related to immune cell infiltration were identified, and a novel 4-gene signature (C10orf55, DLL4, PANX2 and NKAIN1) was established. The prognostic signature-based risk score has superior capability to predict overall survival (AUC = 0.740 for 1 year; AUC = 0.717 for 3 years; AUC = 0.622 for 5 years). A higher score was indicative of a poorer prognosis than a lower score (HR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.08-2.64, p = 0.20, adjusted by TNM stage).Conclusion: miR-3648 might play a crucial role in the progression of EA. The novel miR-3648-targeted immune-related 4-gene signature is expected to become a potential prognostic marker in EA.
Cellulase Production by a Newly Isolated Soil Fungus Penicillium Griseofulvum A2
Authors: Guan Fachun , Liu Jie , Cai Jinling , Qi Chunyan , Wang Chao , Cui Yanru , Hou Ligang , Jiao Xie , Li Zhonghe
Published: June 2021

Rice straw is one of the most abundant resources in the world. Returning straw to field is an effective method facilitating sustainable agricultural production in many countries. However, the crop residues cannot be degraded easily due to recalcitrant structure and composition of lignocellulosic material. A straw-degrading fungus Penicillium griseofulvum A2 was isolated from rice straw culture medium and identified by morphology and ITS rRNA gene sequencing. Enzyme-producing condition of A2 was optimized, including nitrogen source ((NH4)2SO4, NH4Cl, urea, and peptone), pH value (5.0 to 7.5), and incubation time (1 to 20 d). Results showed that P. griseofulvum A2 produced the highest CMCase (33.97 ± 0.33 U/mL) utilizing urea as nitrogen source and growing at pH 7.0-7.5 after 15 d cultivation. While, NH4Cl was more suitable for β-glucosidase (15.40 ± 1.77 U/mL) production under pH 7.0 condition after 10 d cultivation. The isolated fungus P. griseofulvum A2 is a good potential strains to decomposed rice straw.