bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Personalized Machine-Learning-enabled Method for Efficient Research in Ethnopharmacology. The case of Southern Balkans and Coastal zone of Asia Minor
Authors: Axiotis Evangelos , Kontogiannis Andreas , Kalpoutzakis Eleftherios , Giannakopoulos George
Published: June 2021

Ethnopharmacology experts face several challenges when identifying and retrieving documents and resources related to their scientific focus. The volume of sources that need to be monitored, the variety of formats utilized, the different quality of language use across sources, present some of what we call “big data” challenges in the analysis of this data. This study aims to understand if and how experts can be supported effectively through intelligent tools in the task of ethnopharmacological literature research. To this end, we utilize a real case study of ethnopharmacology research, aimed at the Southern Balkans and Coastal zone of Asia Minor. Thus, we propose a methodology for more efficient research in ethnopharmacology. Our work follows an “Expert-Apprentice” paradigm in an automatic URL extraction process, through crawling, where the apprentice is a Machine Learning (ML) algorithm, utilizing a combination of Active Learning (AL) and Reinforcement Learning (RL), and the Expert is the human researcher. ML-powered research improved 3.1 times the effectiveness and 5.14 times the efficiency of the domain expert, fetching a total number of 420 relevant ethnopharmacological documents in only 7 hours versus an estimated 36-hour human-expert effort. Therefore, utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to support the researcher can boost the efficiency and effectiveness of the identification and retrieval of appropriate documents.
Dna Barcodes, a Powerful Tool for a Rapid Construction of a Baseline and Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems in Sian Ka’an Reserve (Quintana Roo State, Mexico) And Adjacent Areas
Authors: Moreno Martha Valdez , Carranza Manuel Mendoza , Rendón-Hernández Eduardo , Alarcón-Chavira Erika , Elías-Gutiérrez Manuel
Published: June 2021

This study is focused to the aquatic environments of the Sian Ka’an reserve, a World Heritage Site. We applied protocols recently developed for the rapid assessment of most animal taxa inhabiting any freshwater system, by using light traps, and DNA barcodes, represented by the mitochondrial gene Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI). We DNA barcoded 1037 specimens of mites, crustaceans, insects, and fish larvae from 13 aquatic environments close or inside the reserve, with a success rate of 99.8%. In total, 167 Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTU’s) were detected. From them we identified 43 species. All others remain as a MOTU. For analyzing the adult fish communities, we applied the non-invasive method of environmental DNA (eDNA), and identified the sequences obtained with the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD). We found 25 fish species, and other terrestrial vertebrates from this region. No alien species was found. After a comparison of the MOTU’s from all systems, we found that each water body was unique respect the communities observed. The reference library presented here represents the first step for future programs to detect any change in these ecosystems, including invasive species, or improve knowledge of freshwater zooplankton, because most of the MOTU’s are possibly new species to science.
Results of Pregnancy Control before and during the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Comparison of Two Cohorts
Authors: Llorca Javier , Lechosa-Muñiz Carolina , Frank de Zulueta Pelayo , Lopez-Gomez Sonia , Orallo Victoria , Alonso-Molero Jéssica , Arozamena-Llano Barbara , Jubete Yolanda , Paz-Zulueta Maria , Cabero Maria J
Published: June 2021

COVID-19 pandemic put pregnant women in high risk, but behavioural changes has also led to lower rates of preterm births in high-income countries. The main goal in this article is to study the impact that COVID-19 pandemic is having on pregnancy control and outcomes. This is a joint analysis of two cohorts. A pre-pandemic one includes 969 pregnant women recruited in 2018. The pandemic cohort comprises 1168 pregnant women recruited in 2020. Information on demographic and socio-economic characteristics, reproductive history, characteristics of the current pregnancy and its outcome were obtained from medical records. Caesarean section was more frequent in the pre-pandemic cohort (24% vs. 18%, p = 0.004). Birth with less than 37 weeks of gestational age was more frequent in the pre-pandemic cohort (6% vs. 5%, p = 0.04). Weight at birth lower than 2500 grams occurred more frequently in the pre-pandemic cohort (9% vs. 6%, p = 0.001). Exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge was more frequent in the pandemic cohort than in the pre-pandemic one (60% vs. 54%, p = 0.005). We are reporting reductions in Caesarean section and preterm birth during the pandemic in a hospital located Northern of Spain. Further analysis would clarify if these lessening are related to changes in health-related behaviour or health-care functioning.
Improving the CO and CH4 Gas Sensor Response at Room Temperature of α-Fe2O3(0001) Epitaxial Thin Films Grown on SrTiO3(111) Incorporating Au(111) Islands
Authors: Serrano Aída , López-Sánchez Jesus , Arnay Iciar , Cid Rosalía , Vila Maria , Salas-Cólera Eduardo , Castro Germán R. , Rubio-Zuazo Juan
Published: June 2021

In this work epitaxial Au islands have been grown on epitaxial α-Fe2O3 thin film by pulsed laser deposition on SrTiO3(111) substrate. Both Au and α-Fe2O3 layer show an island-type growth with an average particle size of 40 and 62 nm, respectively. The crystallographic coupling of lattices is confirmed with a rotation of 30º between the in-plane crystallographic axes of α-Fe2O3(0001) structure and those of SrTiO3(111) substrate and between the in-plane crystallographic axes of Au(111) and those of α-Fe2O3(0001) structure. α-Fe2O3 is the only phase of iron oxide identified before and after its functionalization with Au nanoparticles. In addition, its structural character-istics are also preserved after Au deposition, with minor changes at short-range order. The func-tional character of the complex systems as gas sensor has been proven at room temperature. Con-ductance measurements of Au(111)/α-Fe2O3(0001)/ SrTiO3(111) system show that the incorpora-tion of Au islands on top of the α-Fe2O3(0001) layer induces an enhancement of the gas-sensing ac-tivity for CO and CH4 gas in comparison to a bare α-Fe2O3(0001) layer grown on SrTiO3(111).
Quantitative Investigation of Radiometric Interactions between Snowfall, Snow Cover, and Cloud Liquid Water Over Land
Authors: Takbiri Zeinab , Milani Lisa , Guilloteau Clement , Foufoula-Georgiou Efi
Published: June 2021

Falling snow alters its own microwave signatures when it begins to accumulate on the ground, making retrieval of snowfall challenging. This paper investigates the effects of snow-cover depth and cloud liquid water content on microwave signatures of terrestrial snowfall using reanalysis data and multi-annual observations by the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) core satellite with particular emphasis on the 89 and 166 GHz channels. It is found that over shallow snow cover (snow water equivalent (SWE) ≤ 100 kg m-2) and low values of cloud liquid water path (LWP 100–150 g m-2), the scattering of light snowfall (intensities ≤ 0.5 mm h−1) is detectable only at frequency 166 GHz, while for higher snowfall rates, the signal can also be detected at 89 GHz. However, when SWE exceeds 200 kg m-2 and the LWP is greater than 100–150 g m-2, the emission from the increased liquid water content in snowing clouds becomes the only surrogate microwave signal of snowfall that is stronger at frequency 89 than 166 GHz. The results also reveal that over high latitudes above 60°N where the SWE is greater than 200 kg m-2 and LWP is lower than 100–150 g m-2, the snowfall microwave signal could not be detected with GPM without considering a priori data about SWE and LWP. Our findings provide quantitative insights for improving retrieval of snowfall in particular over snow-covered terrain.
Refraction of Oblique Shock Wave on a Tangential Discontinuity
Authors: Bulat Pavel , Melnikova Anzhelika , Volkov Konstantin , Upyrev Vladimir
Published: June 2021

Refraction of an oblique shock wave on a tangential discontinuity dividing two gas flows with different properties is considered. It is shown that its partial reflection occurs excepting of geometrical diffraction of an oblique shock. Another oblique shock, expansion wave or weak discontinuity that coincides with Mach line, can act as a reflected disturbance. This study focuses on relationships which define the type of reflected discontinuity and its parameters. Domains of existence of various shock-wave structures with reflected disturbances of two types and boundaries between them are defined. The domains of parameters with one or two solutions exist for the characteristic refraction. Conditions of the regular refraction and the Mach refraction are formulated, and boundaries between those two refraction types are defined for various types of gases. Refraction phenomena in various engineering problems (hydrocarbon gaseous fuel and its combustion products, diatomic gas, fuel mixture of oxygen and hydrogen etc.) are discussed.
Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles from Iris Tuberosa as Potential Preservative In Cosmetic Products
Authors: Mondéjar-López Maria , López-Jimenez Alberto José , Abad-Jordá Minerva , Rubio-Moraga Angela , Ahrazem Oussama , Gómez-Gómez Lourdes , Niza Enrique
Published: June 2021

Biogenic-Silver nanoparticles emerge as new nanosilver platfmorm that allow to obtain silver nanoparticles via “green chemistry”. In our study we obtained biogenic-Silver nanoparticles from Iris tuberosa leaves extract. Nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, dinnamical light scattering technique and Transmission electron microscope, showing spheric and irregular nanoparticles with 5 to 50 nm in diameter. Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties were evaluated against typical microbial contaminants found in cosmetic products, showing high antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. We formulated a natural moisturizing cream with biogenic-silver nanoparticles to evaluate the preservative efficiency trought challenge test, confirming that our nanoparticles are a promising alternative to use as cosmetic preservative.
High Vegetables Intake and Response to COPD Rehabilitation. The Role of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Dna Damage.
Authors: Ilari Sara , Vitiello Laura , Russo Patrizia , Proietti Stefania , Milic Mirta , Muscoli Carolina , Cardaci Vittorio , Tomino Carlo , Bonassi Gaia , Bonassi Stefano
Published: June 2021

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory disease associated with airways inflammation and lung parenchyma fibrosis. The primary goals of COPD treatment are to re-duce symptoms and risk of exacerbations, therefore pulmonary rehabilitation is considered the key component of managing COPD patients. Oxidative airway damage, inflammation and re-duction of endogenous antioxidant enzymes are known to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of COPD. Natural antioxidants have also recently been considered as they play an important role in metabolism, DNA repair and fighting the effects of oxidative stress. In this paper we evaluated the response of 105 elderly COPD patients to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), based on high or low vegetable consumption, by analyzing clinical parameters and biological measure-ments at baseline and after completion of the three weeks PR. We found that high vegetable in-take in normal diet, without any specific intervention, can increase the probability to success-fully respond to rehabilitation (65.4% of responders ate vegetables daily vs. 40.0% of Non-Responders, p=0.033). Three weeks of pulmonary rehabilitation are probably too short to reveal a reduction of the oxidative stress and DNA damage, but are enough to show an im-provement in the patient's inflammatory state.
Experimental Validation of a Microwave Imaging Method for Shallow Buried Target Detection by Under-Sampled Data and a Non-Coperative Source
Authors: Brancaccio Adriana , Leone Giovanni , Pierri Rocco , Solimene Raffaele
Published: June 2021

In microwave imaging it is often of interest to inspect electrically large spatial regions. In these cases, data must be collected over a great deal of measurement points which entails long measurement time and/or costly, and often unfeasible, measurement configurations. In order to counteract such drawbacks, we have recently introduced a microwave imaging algorithm which looks for the scattering targets in terms of equivalent surface currents supported over a given reference plane. While this method is suited to detect shallowly buried targets, it allows to independently process each frequency data, hence the source and the receivers do not need to be synchronized. Moreover, spatial data can be reduced at large extent, without incurring in aliasing artefacts, by properly combining single-frequency reconstructions. In this paper, we validate such an approach by experimental measurements. In particular, the experimental test site consists of a sand box in open air where metallic plate targets are shallowly buried (few cm) under the air/soil interface. The investigated region is illuminated by a fixed transmitting horn antenna whereas the scattered field is collected over a planar measurement aperture at a fixed height from the air-sand interface. The transmitter and the receiver share only the working frequency information. Experimental results confirm the feasibility of the method.
Longstanding Nonunion of Metatarsal Fractures in an Adult Patient with Autosomal Dominant Osteopetrosis
Authors: Sidhu Arashdeep , Birk Manjot , Nacht Jeffrey L.
Published: June 2021

Case:

Osteopetrosis is a genetic condition that impairs bone turnover as the result of defects in osteoclast function and abnormal ossification of bone. Autosomal dominant osteopetrosis is often mild; however, the impaired fracture healing, increased density, and hardness of osteopetrotic bone present technical challenges for surgeons leading to complications with both nonoperative and operative treatment modalities. In this case report, we describe a patient treated empirically with ultrasonic bone stimulation for nonunion of fractures of multiple metatarsals after a failure of conventional therapy.

Conclusion:

Ultrasonic bone stimulation may have a role in optimizing nonoperative management of osteopetrosis-related fractures in adults.
Transtibial Osseointegration for Patients with Peripheral Vascular Disease
Authors: Akhtar Muhammad Adeel , Hoellwarth Jason Shih , Al-Jawazneh Shakib , Lu William , Roberts Claudia , Al Muderis Munjed
Published: June 2021

Background:

The management of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) can require amputation. Osseointegration surgery is an emerging rehabilitation strategy for amputees. In this study, we report on 6 patients who had PVD requiring transtibial amputation (PVD-TTA) and either simultaneous or subsequent osseointegration (PVD-TTOI).

Methods:

Six patients (aged 36 to 84 years) with transtibial amputation and preexisting PVD underwent osseointegration between 2014 and 2016 and were followed for 3 to 5 years. Pre- and postoperative clinical and functional outcomes (pain, prosthesis wear time, mobility, walking ability, and quality of life) and adverse events (infection, fracture, implant failure, revision surgery, additional amputation, and death) were prospectively recorded.

Results:

All patients’ mobility improved following osseointegration. Three patients initially had required the use of a wheelchair, precluding baseline walking tests; the other 3 were classified as K level 1 or 2, with mean baseline Timed Up and Go (TUG) test = 14.0 ± 2.2 s and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) = 262 ± 75 m. At the time of the latest follow-up, all patients were K level 2 or 3; mean TUG = 12.7 ± 7.2 s and 6MWT = 353 ± 148 m. Four patients wore their prosthesis ≥16 hours daily. Three patients had superficial soft-tissue infections. One other patient experienced recurrent infections 2.8 years after osseointegration requiring debridements and transfemoral amputation; the patient died 2 days following surgery from myocardial infarction caused by coronary atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

All 6 patients who underwent PVD-TTOI in this case series survived through 2 years. Patients who initially had used a wheelchair achieved and maintained independent, unaided ambulation until PVD-related impairments in the contralateral leg occurred in 1 patient. Patients previously using a traditional socket prosthesis reported improvement in mobility and quality of life. One patient’s death underscores the importance of careful patient selection. However, marked improvement in the other 5 patients suggests cautious optimism that PVD-TTA is not an absolute osseointegration contraindication. Conscientious further investigation seems appropriate.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Complications, Reoperations, and Mid-Term Outcomes Following Anterior Vertebral Body Tethering Versus Posterior Spinal Fusion
Authors: Shin Max , Arguelles Gabriel R. , Cahill Patrick J. , Flynn John M. , Baldwin Keith D. , Anari Jason B.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) is a growth-modulation technique theorized to correct adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) without the postoperative stiffness imposed by posterior spinal fusion. However, data are limited to small series examining short-term outcomes. To assess AVBT’s potential as a viable alternative to posterior spinal fusion (PSF), a comprehensive comparison is warranted. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare postoperative outcomes between patients with AIS undergoing PSF and AVBT. Our primary objective was to compare complication and reoperation rates at available follow-up times. Secondary objectives included comparing mid-term Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 scores, and coronal and sagittal-plane Cobb angle corrections.

Methods:

We performed a systematic review of outcome studies following AVBT and/or PSF procedures. The inclusion criteria included the following: AVBT and/or PSF procedures; Lenke 1 or 2 curves; an age of 10 to 18 years for >90% of the patient population; <10% non-AIS scoliosis etiology; and follow-up of ≥1 year. A single-arm, random-effects meta-analysis was performed. Deformity corrections, complication and reoperation rates, and postoperative SRS-22 scores were recorded.

Results:

Ten AVBT studies (211 patients) and 14 PSF studies (1,069 patients) were included. The mean follow-up durations were similar for both groups. Pooled complication rates were 26% for AVBT versus 2% for PSF, and reoperation rates were 14.1% for AVBT versus 0.6% for PSF with nonoverlapping confidence intervals (CIs). The pooled reoperation rate among studies with follow-up times of ≥36 months was 24.7% in AVBT versus 1.8% in PSF. Deformity correction, clinical outcomes, and mid-term SRS-22 scores were similar.

Conclusions:

Our study showed greater rates of complications and reoperations with AVBT compared with PSF. Reoperation rates were significantly greater in AVBT studies with longer follow-up (≥36 months). Deformity correction, clinical outcomes, and mid-term SRS-22 scores were similar. While a potential fusionless treatment for AIS merits excitement, clinicians should consider AVBT with caution. Future long-term randomized prospective studies are needed.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Hypothyroidism and Leptin in Iraqi Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Luaibi Noori Mohammed , Falhi Athraa K. , Alsaedi Ali J.
Published: June 2021

The present study aims at assessing the effects of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on thyroid hormone and leptin by evaluating the level of: leptin hormone along with thyroid hormone in CKD patients. The study has been conducted on  70 subjects, 50 patients with an age range between 20-50 years (25  males and 25 females) who were diagnosed to have CKD stage-5, and 20 normal controls whose ages ranged between 20-48 years (10  males and 10 females), who attended  the Nephrology and Transplant Center in Medical City of Baghdad- Iraq from April  2018  to July  2018. The study showed a highly significant (P<0.01) increase in TSH level in CKD patients in comparison with controls. While T3 and T4 levels observed highly significant decrease (P<0.01) in CKD patients in comparison with their control groups; on the other hand, in Leptin levels, it has been demonstrated a highly significant (P<0.01) increase in CKD patients compared to the controls. Also there was a significant (P<0.05)   positive correlation between TSH and Leptin, while the results showed a highly significant (P<0.01) negative correlation between T3, T4 and Leptin. To conclude, this study confirms that thyroid dysfunction and hyperleptinemia have been found to be very common in CKD patients and reveals the significant association between CKD progression and thyroid dysfunction and hyperleptinemia.
Methodological approach for determining the Minimal Important Difference and Minimal Important Change scores for the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Head and Neck Cancer Module (EORTC QLQ-HN43) exemplified by the Swallowing scale
Authors: Singer Susanne , Hammerlid Eva , Tomaszewska Iwona M. , Amdal Cecilie Delphin , Bjordal Kristin , Herlofson Bente Brokstad , Santos Marcos , Silva Joaquim Castro , Mehanna Hisham , Fullerton Amy , Brannan Christine , Gonzalez Loreto Fernandez , Inhestern Johanna , Pinto Monica , Arraras Juan Ignacio , Yarom Noam , Bonomo Pierluigi , Baumann Ingo , Galalae Razvan , Nicolatou-Galitis Ourania , Kiyota Naomi , Raber-Durlacher Judith , Salem Dina , Fabian Alexander , Boehm Andreas , Krejovic-Trivic Sanja , Chi Wei-Chu , Taylor Katherine , Simon Christian , Licitra Lisa , Sherman Allen C
Published: June 2021

Purpose The aim of this study was to explore what methods should be used to determine the minimal important difference (MID) and minimal important change (MIC) in scores for the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Head and Neck Cancer Module, the EORTC QLQ-HN43.Methods In an international multi-centre study, patients with head and neck cancer completed the EORTC QLQ-HN43 before the onset of treatment (t1), three months after baseline (t2), and six months after baseline (t3). The methods explored for determining the MID were: 1) group comparisons based on performance status; 2) 0.5 and 0.3 standard deviation and standard error of the mean. The methods examined for the MIC were patients' subjective change ratings and receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curves, predictive modelling, standard deviation, and standard error of the mean. The EORTC QLQ-HN43 Swallowing scale was used to investigate these methods.Results From 28 hospitals in 18 countries, 503 patients participated. Correlations with the performance status were |r|<0.4 in 17 out of 19 scales; hence, performance status was regarded as an unsuitable anchor. The ROC approach yielded an implausible MIC and was also discarded. The remaining approaches worked well and delivered MID values ranging from 10 to 14; the MIC for deterioration ranged from 8 to 16 and the MIC for improvement from -3 to -14.Conclusions For determining MIDs of the remaining scales of the EORTC QLQ-HN43, we will omit comparisons of groups based on the Karnofsky Performance Score. Other external anchors are needed instead. Distribution-based methods worked well and will be applied as a starting strategy for analyses. For the calculation of MICs, subjective change ratings, predictive modelling, and standard-deviation based approaches are suitable methods whereas ROC analyses seem to be inappropriate.
One-year results and safety of femtosecond arcuate incisions for high post-keratoplasty astigmatism treatment: time to rethink the procedure?
Authors: Kwitko Sergio , de Araujo Bruno Schneider , Cabral Felipe Pigozzi , Neubauer Nessana
Published: June 2021

Background/Aims High astigmatism after keratoplasty is the main limiting factor for visual rehabilitation. Among its treatment options the arcuate keratotomy (AK) with the femtosecond laser stands out for its perfection and versatility of the incision making. We designed a study to evaluate the results and safety of femtosecond arcuate keratotomy (femto-AK) in the treatment of high astigmatism after keratoplasty.Methods A prospective interventional cohort study. We enrolled 17 eyes with high degree of irregular astigmatism, scheduled for Femto-AK. IntraLase FS was used to perform arcuate incisions 1.00 mm inside the graft. Patients’ uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BDCVA), and astigmatic change were recorded and followed up to one year after surgery.Results Despite overall improvement in corneal cylinder and visual acuity in one-year follow-up, there was a 52.9% complication rate. Cylinder overcorrection occurred in 6 cases (35.3%) that was managed with compressive sutures; microperforation occurred in two cases (11.7%); and endothelial rejection in one case (5.9%).Conclusion The predictability of astigmatism correction was variable in reducing postkeratoplasty astigmatism and high complication rate was found in our case series. New nomograms and improvements in technique need to be developed in order to reduce the incidence of overcorrections.
Giant Intramuscular Lipoma of Biceps Brachii – A Rare Case Report
Authors: Nizam Saifullah , Kardam Dinesh , Yelamanchi Raghav , Khurana Udit
Published: June 2021

Lipomas are benign mesenchymal tumors. They are the most common type of soft tissue tumors. Intramuscular lipoma is a relatively uncommon condition and accounts for about1.8% of all primary tumors of adipose tissue and are relatively rare in upper extremity. When deep, large and unusual in location, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can identify and localise these tumours and is the best modality to differentiate lipoma and liposarcoma. We report an extremely rare and interesting case of giant intramuscular biceps brachii lipoma. A 22-year male patient presented with insidious onset, firm and non-tender swelling in the left elbow without any distal neurovascular deficits. MRI and biopsy were suggestive of lipoma. Wide local excision was done and patient had an uneventful recovery. Post-operative histopathology was suggestive of lipoma. To conclude, intramuscular giant lipoma of biceps brachii is an infrequent clinical entity due to its location. Imaging is necessary to differentiate it from its malignant counterpart and to plan surgical management.
Experimental and theoretical study of a new CDI device for the treatment of desulfurization wastewater
Authors: Liu Chang , Ma Lan , Xu Yongyi , Wang Feng , Tan Yu , Huang Luyue , Ma shuangchen
Published: June 2021

According to the characteristics of desulfurization wastewater, A new capacitive deionization (CDI) device was designed to study the desalination characteristics of desulfurization wastewater in this paper. The experiments investigated the desalination efficiency under different conditions which find that the best desalination efficiency is achieved at a voltage of 1.2V, pH = 11 and 50℃. Besides, the ion adsorption is more favorable under acidic and alkaline conditions. The anion and cation removal performance experiments showed that the order of cation removal is Mg2+༞Na+༞Ca2+༞K+ and the order of anion removal is Cl−༞CO32−༞NO3−༞SO42−༞HCO3−. The mechanism of CDI was studied and analyzed by isothermal adsorption model and COMSOL simulation software. It was found that the Freundlich model and Redlich-Peterson model have a good fit with the experimental results. The experiments show that the CDI device has excellent stability. CDI device was used to treat actual desulfurization wastewater. Furthermore, the study provides theoretical support for the industrial application of CDI for desulfurization wastewater treatment in the future.
Novel Azabicyclononane (ABN-5d) Derivative Inhibits Carrageenan-Induced Rat Hind Paw Edema
Authors: R Bhavapriya , Manickam Venkatraman , Ramasamy Tamizhselvi , Radhakrishnan Vidya , Iyer Sathiyanarayanan Kulathu
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Recent reports confirm the anti-inflammatory role of 3-azabicyclononane ring-based phytochemicals derived from a variety of plant alkaloids. We recently synthesized and established preliminary cytotoxic activities on different cancer cell lines. Further to characterize the azabicyclononane compounds, in this study we unravelled the mechanism involved in the anti-inflammatory effect of a novel azabicyclononane derivative (ABN-5d). Methods: Carrageenan-induced (1% intraplantar injection) rat hind paw edema model was used for the induction of inflammation. The synthesized azabicycle derivative ABN-5d (0.5, and 1.0 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to rats 1hr before the injection of carrageenan. Paw volume as the index of inflammation was measured before and after the administration of carrageenan.Results: Carrageenan-induced peripheral inflammation in the rat. ABN-5d administration significantly decreased carrageenan-induced paw histopathological changes, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, H2S, NO level, TNF-α, CSE, and iNOS gene expression in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.001). We also demonstrated that ABN-5d significantly reduced carrageenan-induced NF-κB activation and IκBα degradation in the inflamed paw tissue. Conclusion: These results indicate that the anti-inflammatory effect of ABN-5d on carrageenan-induced rat paw edema could be via the inhibition of the iNOS/NO-CSE/ H2S -NFκB pathway.
Ultra-Early Indicators of Acute Hypertriglyceridemic Pancreatitis May Influence Treatment Decision-Making By Chinese Doctors
Authors: Wu Jing , Liang Yizhi , Tang Xiaoting , Rao Zilan , Li Chaowei , Pan Xiaoping , Fang Taiyong
Published: June 2021

Background: This study investigates whether ultra-early indicators can predict severity of acute hypertriyceridemic pancreatitis (HTGP) and affect clinical decisions. Methods: For this observational retrospective study, we analyzed data of 110 HTGP patients enrolled between January 2017 and February 2020. HTGP patients were categorized into mild acute pancreatitis (MAP) and moderately severe acute pancreatitis-severe acute pancreatitis (MSAP-SAP) groups, based on their final clinical outcomes. Demographic and clinical data were collected and ultra-early indicators (serum calcium, triglyceride (TG), interleukin-6(IL-6), D-dimer, hemoglobin A1c(HbAc1), arterial lactate) levels were measured within 6 hours of admission. A multivariate logistic regression analysis model and receiver operating characteristic curve were used to determine ultra-early indicators values of high-risk patients. The chi-square test method was applied to estimate the hospitalization time and associated complications in MSAP-SAP group post-plasma exchange within or more than 24 hours. Results: Among the 110 HTGP patients, 56 were in the MAP group whereas, 54 were in the MSAP-SAP group. TG, IL-6, D-dimer, HbAc1, and arterial lactate levels measured within 6 hours after admission were significantly higher in the MSAP-SAP group, but serum calcium was significantly lower, versus the mild AP group. IL-6, D-dimer and serum calcium were identified as the risk factors for MSAP-SAP and were potential ultra-early indicators for predicting HTGP severity within 6 hours of admission. MSAP-SAP patients that underwent blood purification therapy within 24 hours of admission had a shorter hospitalization time than those treated 24 hours post-admission. Conclusion: The present study reveals IL-6, D-dimer, and serum calcium - ultra-early indicators - as promising biomarkers in the assessment of AP severity in HTGP patients within 6 hours. Early blood purification presents a novel therapy among MSAP-SAP patients within 24 hours and is associated with fewer complications and a shorter hospitalization time. However, traditional therapy can be further integrated to manage MAP patients effectively with less medical expenses.
Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health of Palliative Care Professionals and Services: A Mixed Method Survey Study
Authors: Chan Wallace Chi Ho , Woo Raymond Kam Wing , Kwok Denis Ka-Shaw , Yu Clare Tsz Kiu , Chiu Lawrence Man-Hon
Published: June 2021

Background: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of health care professionals is profound, but few studies have examined this phenomenon. The way palliative care services have been affected during the pandemic remains underexplored. This study aimed to 1. examine the mental health of palliative care professionals during the pandemic and the relationship of mental health with socio-demographic factors; and 2. explore the impact of the pandemic on palliative care services. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted, and 142 palliative care professionals from public hospitals in Hong Kong completed an online questionnaire, which includes measurements on depression, anxiety, perceived stress, post-traumatic stress, professional quality of life, and 15 questions on the effect of COVID-19 on palliative care services. Descriptive and multivariate regression analyses were conducted. Quantitative and qualitative data about the impact of COVID-19 on palliative care services were analyzed and triangulated using a mixed-methods approach. Results: Our findings indicated that 82%, 43% and 42% of the participants felt moderately to highly stressed, anxious, and depressed during the pandemic. Female professionals who are younger or have no religious belief tended to have poorer mental health. Qualitative findings identified three themes which affected the provision of palliative care: 1. the tightening of restrictions on visitors; 2. The limited provision of services; and 3. staff deployment. Conclusions: This study suggests the need for concern about the mental health of palliative care professionals and for developing strategies of coping with the challenges during the pandemic.Trial registration: N/A (This paper does not involve a health care intervention)
The Ripple Effect, Silence and Powerlessness: Hidden Barriers to Discussing Suicide in Australian Aboriginal Communities
Authors: Heard Todd R , McGill Katherine , Skehan Jaelea , Rose Bronwyn
Published: June 2021

Background
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for Aboriginal Australians. There is an urgent need to actively engage with Aboriginal communities to better understand these issues and to develop solutions together to prevent deaths by suicide in Aboriginal communities.
Methods
Utilising a qualitative, thematic, cross-sectional design, we conducted focus groups in three communities in New South Wales (Australia) to explore the perceptions and views of Aboriginal participants in relation to discussing suicide.
Results
The key themes found to influence discussions about suicide in Aboriginal communities included the sense that suicide is a whole of community issue, the ripple effect of suicide deaths, silence about suicide and the impact of this silence, and being powerless to act. Participants described a reluctance to have discussions about suicide; feeling they had limited skills and confidence to have these sorts of discussions; and multiple and interrelated barriers to discussing suicide, including shame, fear and negative experiences of mental health care. Participants also described how their experiences maintained these barriers and prevented Aboriginal Australians from seeking help in suicidal crises.
Conclusion
Future initiatives should address the interrelated barriers by supporting Aboriginal people to build skills and confidence in discussing suicide and mental health and by improving access to, and the experience of, mental health care and psychosocial and community-based supports for Aboriginal Australians. We suggest trying to address any one of these factors in isolation may increase rather than decrease suicide risk in Aboriginal communities.
Risk Factors For Postoperative Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage After Transsphenoidal Surgery For Pituitary Adenoma: A Meta-Analysis And Systematic Review
Authors: Zhou Zhihuan , Zuo Feifei , Chen Xiaoqun , Zhao Qinqin , Luo Mengna , Jiang Xiaobing , Duan Yuyu
Published: June 2021

Objective: Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage represents a challenge even for experienced pituitary surgeons. We aimed to quantitatively synthesize data from studies regarding the risk factors for postoperative CSF leakage after transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for pituitary adenoma (PA).Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database, and VIP database were searched for case–control and cohort studies, focusing on the risk factors associated with postoperative CSF leakage after TSS for PA. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to determine the risk factors.Results: A total of 34 case–control and cohort studies involving a total of 9,144 patients with PA were included in this systematic review. The overall rate of postoperative CSF leakage after TSS for PA was 5.6%. Tumor size, adenoma consistency, revision surgery, and intraoperative CSF leakage were independent risk factors for postoperative CSF leakage (ORs, 3.18–6.33). By contrast, the endoscopic approach showed a slight protective benefit compared with the microscopic approach in TSS (OR, 0.69).Conclusions: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the quality of the evidence base, informing clinical staff of the importance of screening risk factors for postoperative CSF leakage after TSS for PA. More attention should be paid to PA patients at high risk for CSF leakage after TSS to reduce complications and improve prognosis.
Identification of EMT-Related lncRNAs as a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Therapeutic Targets for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Deng Yanyao , Hu Hai , Xiao Le , Cai Ting , Gao Wenzhe , Zhu Hongwei , Wang Shuai , Liu Jixing
Published: June 2021

Background: Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) can promote carcinoma progression by multiple mechanisms, many studies demonstrated the invasiveness of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) associated with the EMT, but how it acts in a lncRNA dependent manner is unclear. Methods: We investigated 146 PAAD samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and 92 samples from the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC). Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) and weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) were applied to explore the EMT related long non-coding RNAs (EMTlnc). Univariate Cox regression analysis was performed to screen their prognostic roles in PAAD patients. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression was used to establish an EMT-related lncRNA prognostic signature (EMT-LPS). We also established a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. Results: 33 prognostic EMTlnc were identified as prognostic lncRNAs and an EMT-LPS were established. We divided the patients into low- and high-risk subgroups according to corresponding risk scores. The EMT-LPS showed a powerful prognostic predicting ability in stratification analysis. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed the low- and high-risk subgroups had distinct EMT status. Enrichment analysis indicated malignancy correlated biological processes, pathways and hallmarks were more common in the high-risk subgroup. Moreover, we constructed a nomogram that had a strong ability to forecast the overall survival (OS) of the PAAD patients in both datasets. Conclusion: EMT-LPS are important factors in the carcinoma progression of PAAD and may help in decision making regarding the choice of prognosis assessment and provide us clues to design the new drugs for PAAD.
A Novel lncRNA, CTD-2017C7.1, Promotes ESCC Tumorigenesis by Binding to PDIA3 and Activating Oncogenic Gene Expressions
Authors: Wang Liang , Ding Peikun , Zhang Kang , Yang Wenhan , Chen Qianqian , Song Yi , Cheng Guogang , Yang Lin , Ye Shaowu , Sun Liyuan , Zhai Rihong
Published: June 2021

BackgroundlncRNAs are dysregulated in many human cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and are associated cancer development and progression. In the current study, we aimed to elucidate the biological roles of lncRNA CTD-2017C7.1 in ESCC. MethodThe biological functions of CTD-2017C7.1 were determined in vitro and in vivo. RNA pull-down, MS, RIP, RNA-seq, and qRT-PCR assays were employed to investigate the mechanisms of CTD-2017C7.1. ResultsCTD-2017C7.1 was up-regulated in ESCC tissues and cells, and associated with poor clinical outcome. Overexpression of CTD-2017C7.1 promoted cell proliferation, invasion and migration. CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of CTD-2017C7.1 resulted in reverse effects. Up-regulation of CTD-2017C7.1 also increased ESCC tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, CTD-2017C7.1 bound to PDIA3 and activated the expressions of oncogenic genes. ConclusionOur study revealed that CTD-2017C7.1 was an oncogenic lncRNA that may be a potential therapeutic target of ESCC.
Clinical Characteristics and Metabolomics Investigation for Patients with Dengue Virus 2 Infection
Authors: Tong Jiepeng , Wu Zhe , Zhang Jiajie , Zhang Li , Yu Wei , Qiu Yunqing
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVES

Dengue is an endemic viral disease affecting tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The aim of this study was to retrospectively study the clinical characteristics of dengue fever (DF) and evaluate the metabolomic changes.
METHODS

The medical records of 50 patients presented with dengue virus 2 (DENV-2) RNA positive were reviewed. Serum was collected from 20 patients diagnosed with DF and 20 healthy volunteers. The changes in serum metabolites were explored by UPLC-Q-TOF MS spectrometer.
RESULTS

Fever, nausea and vomiting, asthenia, skin hyperemia were the most common clinical symptoms. The results of the laboratory examinations showed that leukopenia (76%, 38/50), thrombocytopenia (92%, 46/50), increase of aspartate aminotransferase (96%, 48/50), increase of free fatty acids (FFA) (68%, 34/50), increase of creatine kinase (CK) (44%, 22/50) were more common. Based on orthogonal projection to latent structures-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), 2 up-regulated and 15 down-regulated metabolites were identified, contributing to DF progress to some extent. Among them, LysoPC (18:2(9Z,12Z)) were highly positive correlated with PE (21:0/20:5(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)) and 13'-Hydroxy-alpha-tocopherol. The identified biomarkers were mainly involved in glycerophospholipids metabolism pathway.
CONCLUSIONS

The metabolic abnormalities of glycerophospholipids involved in the occurrence of DF caused by DENV-2.
Efficacy of Abiraterone Acetate For High-Risk Hormone-Naïve Metastatic Prostate Cancer: A Comparison With Combined Androgen Blockade Therapy With Bicalutamide And Androgen Deprivation Therapy Alone
Authors: Kanao Kent , Takahashi Takayuki , Umezawa Yuta , Okabe Takashi , Kaneko Gou , Shirotake Suguru , Nishimoto Koshiro , Oyama Masafumi
Published: June 2021

Background: The treatment landscape for men with metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer (mHNPC) has dramatically changed with the approval of next-generation anti-androgen drugs. We compared the treatment efficacy of abiraterone with that of combined androgen blockade (CAB) therapy and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone in men with high-risk mHNPC.Methods: In total, 146 Japanese men with high-risk mHNPC were retrospectively analyzed. As initial hormonal therapy, 30, 83, and 33 men were treated with ADT plus abiraterone (ABI group), ADT plus bicalutamide (CAB group), and ADT alone (ADT group), respectively. Treatment efficacy was compared using time to castration resistance (TTCR) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response among the groups. Propensity score matching analysis was also performed to adjust for baseline differences.Results: The median (95% confidence interval [CI]) TTCR in the ABI, CAB, and ADT groups were not reached, 10.7 (7.6–13.8) months and 11.0 (7.9–12.4) months, respectively, and it was significantly longer in the ABI group than in the other groups (p=0.0012, p=0.0008). In propensity score matching analysis, the median TTCR was also significantly longer in the ABI group than in the other groups (hazard ratio [HR], 0.47; 95% CI, 0.22–0.98; p=0.010; HR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.12–0.85; p=0.004). The number of men who achieved PSA levels <0.2 ng/mL after propensity score matching were significantly higher in the ABI group than in the other groups.Conclusions: Our results provide important evidence regarding the superiority of abiraterone over CAB therapy and ADT alone for initial treatment for men with newly diagnosed mHNPC.
Prognostic Implications of Valvular Heart Disease in Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Samaras Athanasios , Vrana Eleni , Kartas Anastasios , Moysidis Dimitrios V. , Papazoglou Andreas , Doundoulakis Ioannis , Fotos George , Rampidis Georgios , Tsalikakis Dimitrios , Efthimiadis Georgios , Karvounis Haralambos , Tzikas Apostolos , Giannakoulas George
Published: June 2021

Background: Valvular heart disease (VHD) in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) is a puzzling clinical entity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic effect of significant VHD (sVHD) among patients with non-valvular AF.Methods: This is a post-hoc analysis of the MISOAC-AF trial (NCT02941978). Consecutive inpatients with non-valvular AF who underwent echocardiography were included. sVHD was defined as the presence of at least moderate aortic stenosis (AS) or aortic/mitral/tricuspid regurgitation (AR/MR/TR). Cox regression analyses with covariate adjustments were used for outcome prediction. Results: In total, 983 patients with non-valvular AF (median age 76 years) were analyzed over a median follow-up period of 32 months. sVHD was diagnosed in 575 (58.5%) AF patients. sVHD was associated with all-cause mortality ﻿(21.6%/yr vs. 1.6%/yr; adjusted HR [aHR] 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17-2.06; p = 0.02), cardiovascular mortality ﻿(16%/yr vs. 4%/yr; aHR1.70, 95% CI 1.09-2.66; p = 0.02) and heart failure-hospitalization ﻿(5.8%/yr vs. 1.8%/yr; aHR 2.53, 95% CI 1.35-4.63; p = 0.02). The prognostic effect of sVHD was particularly evident in patients aged <80 years and in those without history of heart failure (p for interaction < 0.05, in both subgroups). After multivariable adjustment, moderate/severe AS and TR were associated with mortality, while AS and MR with heart failure-hospitalization. Conclusion: Among patients with non-valvular AF, sVHD was highly prevalent and beared high prognostic value across a wide spectrum of clinical outcomes, especially in patients aged <80 years or in the absence of heart failure. Predominantly AS, as well as MR and TR, were associated with worse prognosis.