bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperspectral imaging and artificial intelligence to detect oral malignancy – part 1 - automated tissue classification of oral muscle, fat and mucosa using a light-weight 6-layer deep neural network
Authors: Thiem Daniel G. E. , Römer Paul , Gielisch Matthias , Al-Nawas Bilal , Schlüter Martin , Plaß Bastian , Kämmerer Peer W.
Published: September 2021

Background

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a promising non-contact approach to tissue diagnostics, generating large amounts of raw data for whose processing computer vision (i.e. deep learning) is particularly suitable. Aim of this proof of principle study was the classification of hyperspectral (HS)-reflectance values into the human-oral tissue types fat, muscle and mucosa using deep learning methods. Furthermore, the tissue-specific hyperspectral signatures collected will serve as a representative reference for the future assessment of oral pathological changes in the sense of a HS-library.

Methods

A total of about 316 samples of healthy human-oral fat, muscle and oral mucosa was collected from 174 different patients and imaged using a HS-camera, covering the wavelength range from 500 nm to 1000 nm. HS-raw data were further labelled and processed for tissue classification using a light-weight 6-layer deep neural network (DNN).

Results

The reflectance values differed significantly (p < .001) for fat, muscle and oral mucosa at almost all wavelengths, with the signature of muscle differing the most. The deep neural network distinguished tissue types with an accuracy of > 80% each.

Conclusion

Oral fat, muscle and mucosa can be classified sufficiently and automatically by their specific HS-signature using a deep learning approach. Early detection of premalignant-mucosal-lesions using hyperspectral imaging and deep learning is so far represented rarely in in medical and computer vision research domain but has a high potential and is part of subsequent studies.
Multimodal Peri-articular Injection with Tranexamic Acid can reduce postoperative blood loss versus Intravenous Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Peng Hui-ming , Wang Wei , Lin Jin , Weng Xi-sheng , Qian Wen-wei , Wang Wen-da
Published: September 2021

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has shown significant reductions in blood loss and transfusion rates in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the optimal administration route continues to be debated. The aim of this trial was to compare the effectiveness of intravenous (IV) versus peri-articular injection (PAI) application of tranexamic acid in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled, double-blinded study. A total of 93 patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA were randomly distributed between 2 groups: the IV group (47 cases; 1 g TXA IV) and the PAI group (46 cases; 1 g TXA injected peri-articularly). The amount of total and hidden blood loss (HBL), drainage, transfusion rate, hemoglobin and hematocrit drift, and complications were recorded.

Results

Peri-articular injection of TXA reduced total blood loss (P < 0.001) and HBL more than IV use of TXA (P < 0.001). No patients in either group received a transfusion. No symptomatic deep venous thrombosis or other severe complications occurred.

Conclusion

Peri-articular injection of TXA significantly reduced total blood loss and hidden blood loss to a greater degree than IV injection in total knee arthroplasty without reduction of drainage volume.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-INR-16010270. Date of registration: December 27, 2016.
Surgical and percutaneous revascularization outcomes based on SYNTAX I, II, and residual scores: a long-term follow-up study
Authors: Martins Eduardo Bello , Hueb Whady , Brown David L. , Scudeler Thiago Luis , Lima Eduardo Gomes , Rezende Paulo Cury , Soares Paulo Rogério , Garzillo Cibele Larrosa , Filho Jaime Paula Pessoa Linhares , Batista Daniel Valente , Ramires Jose Antonio Franchini , Filho Roberto Kalil
Published: September 2021

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of SYNTAX scores I, II, and residual with cardiovascular outcomes of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and compare both procedures in a long-term follow-up.

Methods

This is a retrospective single-center study from the MASS registry at the Heart Institute of the University of São Paulo, Brazil in which 969 patients with stable coronary artery disease undergoing CABG (559) or PCI (410) were included. We assessed the SYNTAX scores I, II and residual in both interventions. Clinical endpoints were the first occurrence of a composite of overall death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or repeat revascularization (MACCE) and the total occurrence of each component of MACCE.

Results

In the CABG sample, SSI had a median of 23 (IQR 17–29.5), median SSII of 25.4 (IQR 19.2–32.8), and median rSS of 2 (IQR 0–6.5); in PCI SSI had a median of 14 (IQR 10–19.1), median SSII of 28.7 (IQR 23–34.2), and median rSS of 4.7 (IQR 0–9). Total of 174 events were documented and CABG patients had a lower rate of MACCE (15.6% vs. 21.2%; adjusted HR 1.98; 95% CI 1.13–3.47; P = 0.016) and repeat revascularization (3.8% vs. 11.5%; adjusted HR 4.35; CI 95% 1.74–10.85; P = 0.002) compared with PCI. No SYNTAX score tertile found a difference in death rate between procedures. In a multivariate analysis, the rSS was an independent predictor for MACCE (HR 1.04; 95% CI 1.01–1.06; P = 0.001). Regarding death, the only independent predictors were ejection fraction and renal function.

Conclusion

Surgical revascularization resulted in a more complete revascularization and lower rates of major cardiac or cerebrovascular events in a long-term follow-up. Also, grading the incompleteness of revascularization through the residual SYNTAX score identified a higher event rate, suggesting that complete revascularization is associated with a better prognosis.
Impact of glycogen storage disease type I on adult daily life: a survey
Authors: Garbade Sven F. , Ederer Viviane , Burgard Peter , Wendel Udo , Spiekerkoetter Ute , Haas Dorothea , Grünert Sarah C.
Published: September 2021

Background

Glycogen storage disease type I (GSD I) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of carbohydate metabolism characterized by recurrent hypoglycaemia and hepatomegaly. Management of GSD I is demanding and comprises a diet with defined carbohydrate intake and the use of complex carbohydrates, nocturnal tube feeding or night-time uncooked cornstarch intake, regular blood glucose monitoring and the handling of emergency situations. With improved treatment, most patients nowadays survive into adulthood. Little research has been performed on the impact of GSD I on daily life, especially in adult patients.

Results

In this multi-centre study we assessed the impact of GSD I on adult daily life in 34 GSD I patients (27 GSD Ia, 7 GSD Ib) between 17 and 54 years (median 26 years) using a self-designed questionnaire that specifically focused on different aspects of daily life, such as job situation, social life, sports, travelling, composition of the household, night-time and day-time dietary management and disease monitoring as well as the patient’s attitude towards the disease. At the time of investigation, the majority of patients either attended school or university or were employed, while 3 patients (9%) were out of work. Most patients ranked GSD I as a disease with moderate severity and disease burden. Dietary treatment was considered challenging by many, but the vast majority of patients considered life with GSD I as well-manageable.

Conclusions

Although the management of GSD I poses a significant burden on daily life, most patients live an independent adult life, have a positive attitude towards their disease and seem to cope well with their situation.
Pilot investigation of circulating angiogenic and inflammatory biomarkers associated with vascular malformations
Authors: Wetzel-Strong Sarah E. , Weinsheimer Shantel , Nelson Jeffrey , Pawlikowska Ludmila , Clark Dewi , Starr Mark D. , Liu Yingmiao , Kim Helen , Faughnan Marie E. , Nixon Andrew B. , Marchuk Douglas A.
Published: September 2021

Background

Vascular malformations in the central nervous system are difficult to monitor and treat due to their inaccessible location. Angiogenic and inflammatory proteins are secreted into the bloodstream and may serve as useful biomarkers for identifying patients at risk for complications or with certain disease phenotypes.

Methods

A validated multiplex protein array consisting of 26 angiogenic and inflammatory biomarkers (Angiome) was assessed in plasma isolated from healthy controls and patients with either sporadic brain arteriovenous malformation (BAVM), familial cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM), or hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). These samples were obtained from archives of ongoing research studies at the University of California San Francisco and through prospective collection at the Toronto HHT Centre at St. Michael’s Hospital.

Results

We compared circulating biomarker levels from each patient group to healthy controls and analyzed each pairwise combination of patient groups for differences in biomarker levels. Additionally, we analyzed the HHT samples to determine the association between biomarker levels and the following HHT-specific phenotypes, BAVM, pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM), liver vascular malformation (LVM), and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Compared to controls, levels of SDF1 were significantly elevated in HHT patients (Proportional Increase [PI] = 1.87, p < 0.001, q = 0.011). Levels of sENG were significantly reduced in HHT patients compared to controls (PI = 0.56, p < 0.001, q < 0.001), reflecting the prevalence of HHT1 patients in this cohort. Levels of IL6 (PI = 3.22, p < 0.001, q < 0.001) and sTGFβR3 (PI = 0.70, p = 0.001, q < 0.029) differed significantly in CCM patients compared to controls. Compared to controls, ten of the biomarkers were significantly different in sporadic BAVM patients (q-values < 0.05). Among the pairwise combinations of patient groups, a significant elevation was observed in TGFβ1 in CCM patients compared to sporadic BAVM patients (PI = 2.30, p < 0.001, q = 0.034). When examining the association of circulating biomarker levels with HHT-specific phenotypes, four markers were significantly lower in HHT patients with BAVM (q-values < 0.05), and four markers were significantly higher in patients with LVM (q-values < 0.05).

Conclusions

This pilot study suggests that the profile of circulating angiogenic and inflammatory biomarkers may be unique to each type of vascular malformation. Furthermore, this study indicates that circulating biomarkers may be useful for assessing phenotypic traits of vascular malformations.
Addressing the COVID-19 emergency during the ongoing political and economic crisis in Fragile Lebanon: a call to action
Authors: Lobkowicz Ludmila , Lahoud Julien , Bou-Orm Ibrahim
Published: September 2021

This Letter to the Editor aims to reflect on the current challenges to increase the coverage of COVID-19 vaccination in the fragile and conflict-affected setting of Lebanon, which is currently experiencing one of the biggest economic crises globally as well as a recent surge in COVID-19 cases. Addressing the supply- and demand-related factors affecting vaccination would increase COVID-19 vaccine coverage and prevent the complete collapse of an already overwhelmed Lebanese health care system.
Evaluation of different approaches for missing data imputation on features associated to genomic data
Authors: Petrazzini Ben Omega , Naya Hugo , Lopez-Bello Fernando , Vazquez Gustavo , Spangenberg Lucía
Published: September 2021

Background

Missing data is a common issue in different fields, such as electronics, image processing, medical records and genomics. They can limit or even bias the posterior analysis. The data collection process can lead to different distribution, frequency, and structure of missing data points. They can be classified into four categories: Structurally Missing Data (SMD), Missing Completely At Random (MCAR), Missing At Random (MAR) and Missing Not At Random (MNAR). For the three later, and in the context of genomic data (especially non-coding data), we will discuss six imputation approaches using 31,245 variants collected from ClinVar and annotated with 13 genome-wide features.

Results

Random Forest and kNN algorithms showed the best performance in the evaluated dataset. Additionally, some features show robust imputation regardless of the algorithm (e.g. conservation scores phyloP7 and phyloP20), while other features show poor imputation across algorithms (e.g. PhasCons). We also developed an R package that helps to test which imputation method is the best for a particular data set.

Conclusions

We found that Random Forest and kNN are the best imputation method for genomics data, including non-coding variants. Since Random Forest is computationally more challenging, kNN remains a more realistic approach. Future work on variant prioritization thru genomic screening tests could largely profit from this methodology.
Combinational blockade of MET and PD-L1 improves pancreatic cancer immunotherapeutic efficacy
Authors: Li Enliang , Huang Xing , Zhang Gang , Liang Tingbo
Published: September 2021

Background

Dysregulated expression and activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are associated with a range of human cancers. However, current RTK-targeting strategies exert little effect on pancreatic cancer, a highly malignant tumor with complex immune microenvironment. Given that immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer still remains challenging, this study aimed to elucidate the prognostic role of RTKs in pancreatic tumors with different immunological backgrounds and investigate their targeting potential in pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.

Methods

Kaplan–Meier plotter was used to analyze the prognostic significance of each of the all-known RTKs to date in immune “hot” and “cold” pancreatic cancers. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis-2 was applied to assess the differential expression of RTKs between pancreatic tumors and normal pancreatic tissues, as well as its correlation with immune checkpoints (ICPs). One hundred and fifty in-house clinical tissue specimens of pancreatic cancer were collected for expression and correlation validation via immunohistochemical analysis. Two pancreatic cancer cell lines were used to demonstrate the regulatory effects of RTKs on ICPs by biochemistry and flow cytometry. Two in vivo models bearing pancreatic tumors were jointly applied to investigate the combinational regimen of RTK inhibition and immune checkpoint blockade for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.

Results

MET was identified as a pancreatic cancer-specific RTK, which is significantly associated with prognosis in both immune “hot” and “cold” pancreatic cancers. MET was observed to be highly upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues, and positively correlated with PD-L1 levels. Elevated MET and PD-L1 expressions were closely associated with lymph node metastasis, tumor TNM stage, and overall survival in pancreatic cancer. Mechanistically, MET could interact with PD-L1, and maintain its expression level in multiple ways. MET deficiency was found to facilitate lymphocyte infiltration into pancreatic tumors. Finally, significant benefits of combining MET inhibition with PD-1/PD-L1 blockage were verified in both orthotopic and subcutaneous mouse models of pancreatic cancer.

Conclusions

This study systematically investigated the potential effectiveness of a novel pancreatic cancer immunotherapy targeting RTKs, and revealed the function of MET in PD-L1 regulation as well as the combined therapeutic efficacy of MET and PD-L1 in pancreatic cancer.
The efficacy and safety of Anyu Peibo Capsule in the treatment of patients with major depressive disorder in China: study protocol for a randomized placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Huang Jingjing , Yu Yimin , Jiang Yi , Chen Wu , Li Yan , Shen Yifeng , Zheng Qingshan , Li Huafang
Published: September 2021

Background

Major depressive disorder is the second leading cause of years lost to disability worldwide. Anyu Peibo Capsule has been shown to be effective and safe in phase II trials.

Methods

This clinical study is a multi-center, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, phase III trial of Anyu Peibo Capsule in China. The aim is to test whether the administration of Anyu Peibo Capsule compared to placebo improves clinical outcomes in adults (aged 18 to 65 years) with MDD. Patients will receive an 8-week treatment of Anyu Peibo Capsule 1.6 g per day or placebo. The primary outcome will be the change from baseline in the total score for the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale at the end of the 8-week treatment.

Discussion

The trial aims to provide pivotal evidence for the efficacy and safety of Anyu Peibo Capsule in patients with major depressive disorder.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04210973. Registered on December 26, 2019
Effects of intrinsic-foot-muscle exercise combined with the lower extremity resistance training on postural stability in older adults with fall risk: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lai Zhangqi , Pang Hongbo , Hu Xiaoyue , Dong Kun , Wang Lin
Published: September 2021

Background

Falls are one of the most common accidents in older adults, often leading to injury, disability and quality-of-life declines. Foot core function contributes to postural stability in most static postures and dynamic activities. As efficient foot core training, the intrinsic-foot-muscle exercise has been proposed to improve postural control. However, the effects of the exercise on postural stability in the elderly remain unclear. Therefore, this study attempts to investigate the effect of 12-week intrinsic-foot-muscle exercise on postural stability in older adults with fall risk.

Methods

We will conduct a prospective, single-blind randomised controlled trail on 120 older adults with fall risk. Participants will be randomly assigned to an intrinsic-foot-muscle exercise combining the lower extremity resistance training group (IFM group), an extrinsic-foot-muscle exercise combining the lower extremity resistance training group (EFM group) and a control group. The control group will perform lower extremity resistance training. The IFM and EFM groups will be given additional short-foot exercise or towel-curl exercise training, respectively. After the intervention, participants will be followed up for another 12 weeks with no active intervention. The outcome measures will include the postural stability measurements, self-reported postural stability, number of falls, intrinsic-foot-muscle strength and foot arch function. Furthermore, adverse events will be recorded and analysed. If any participant withdraws from the trial, an intention-to-treat analysis will be performed.

Discussion

The trial is designed to investigate the efficacy of a 12-week intrinsic foot muscle training combined with the lower extremity resistance training on postural stability outcomes in elderly people with fall risk. The trial will also examine the comprehensive outcomes of postural stability during static standing and dynamic movements. The function of intrinsic foot muscle to support the arch will also be evaluated. Important features of this trial mainly include intervention setting, outcome measure selection and study duration. The results of this study will determine the effectiveness and provide scientific evidence to establish comprehensive fall prevention intervention.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000033623. Registered on 7 June 2020. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=54741
Latrocimicinae completes the phylogeny of Cimicidae: meeting old morphologic data rather than modern host phylogeny
Authors: Hornok Sándor , Szentiványi Tamara , Takács Nóra , Kovács Áron Botond , Glaizot Olivier , Christe Philippe , Fasel Nicolas , Gyuranecz Miklós , Kontschán Jenő
Published: September 2021

The family Cimicidae includes obligate hematophagous ectoparasites (bed bugs and their relatives) with high veterinary/medical importance. The evolutionary relationships of Cimicidae and their hosts have recently been reported in a phylogenetic context, but in the relevant study, one of the six subfamilies, the bat-specific Latrocimicinae, was not represented. In this study the only known species of Latrocimicinae, i.e.,Latrocimex spectans, was analyzed with molecular and phylogenetic methods based on four (two nuclear and two mitochondrial) genetic markers. The completed subfamily-level phylogeny of Cimicidae showed that Latrocimicinae is most closely related to Haematosiphoninae (ectoparasites of birds and humans), with which it shares systematically important morphologic characters, but not hosts. Moreover, in the phylogenetic analyses, cimicid bugs that are known to infest phylogenetically distant bat hosts clustered together (e.g.,LeptocimexandStricticimexwithin Cacodminae), while cimicid subfamilies (Latrocimicinae, Primicimicinae) that are known to infest bat hosts from closely related superfamilies clustered distantly. In conclusion, adding Latrocimicinae significantly contributed to the resolution of the phylogeny of Cimicidae. The close phylogenetic relationship between Latrocimicinae and Haematosiphoninae is consistent with long-known morphologic data. At the same time, phylogenetic relationships of genera within subfamilies are inconsistent with the phylogeny of relevant hosts.

Graphical abstract
Caffeine improves work durability and physical performance in anaerobic exercises among active adults in Tripoli Lebanon
Authors: Tayba Zeina , Sacre Yonna , Attieh Randa , Mannan Haider
Published: September 2021

Background

People worldwide have a high intake of caffeine. Active adults are among the group of people who have always been interested in caffeine as an ergogenic aid. This study aims at examining the association between caffeine consumption and perceived performance (aerobic and anaerobic exercises) among active people attending different gyms in Tripoli, Lebanon.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 206 participants attending seven gyms in Tripoli. Participants were recruited using simple random sampling for a face-to-face individual interview. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data have been coded, entered, and analyzed using SPSS software.

Results

The prevalence rate of active people practicing both aerobic and anaerobic exercises is 63.6%. More than half of our sample (54.8%) has been working out for a duration of more than 6 months and 84.6% of respondents spend at least 30 min during their workouts. Caffeine consumption was popular in our sample with 92.2% indicating that they use caffeinated products. The findings of this study showed an association between anaerobic exercise and caffeine, perceived as physical performance enhancer and work durability enhancer. Yet no association was found between aerobic exercise and caffeine consumption.

Conclusions

Perhaps, future research could focus on the safe doses of caffeine that could be given for anaerobic exercises to have an ergogenic effect. This could help us to build scientific guidelines for caffeine’s association with sports performance.
RAPD and ERIC-PCR coupled with HRM for species identification of non-dysenteriae Shigella species; as a potential alternative method
Authors: Pakbin Babak , Basti Afshin Akhondzadeh , Khanjari Ali , Azimi Leila , Brück Wolfram Manuel , Karimi Abdollah
Published: September 2021

Objective

Species identification ofShigellaisolates are so prominent for epidemiological studies and infection prevention strategies. We developed and evaluated RAPD and ERIC-PCR coupled with HRM for differentiation of non-dysenteriaeShigellaspecies as potential alternative methods. After isolation of eighteenShigellastrains from faecal specimens collected from children under 2 years of age with diarrhea (n = 143), the species of the isolates were identified by slide agglutination assay. Also, species were identified using developed RAPD-PCR-HRM and ERIC-PCR-HRM techniques. Differentiation of the data sets was measured by principal component analysis as a dimension reduction method. Then, sensitivity and specificity of the methods were evaluated.

Results

We found RAPD-PCR-HRM method with high sensitivity and specificity (100 and 85% respectively) to identify non-dysenteriaeShigellaspecies in clinical specimens. However, sensitivity and specificity of ERIC-PCR-HRM were evaluated 33 and 46% respectively and significantly lower than that of RAPD-PCR-HRM assay. Regardless of inherent poor reproducibility of DNA fingerprinting-based methods, RAPD-PCR-HRM assay can be considered as a potential alternative method to identify non-dysenteriae species ofShigellain clinical specimens. As we observed in the current study, HRM technique is more rapid, inexpensive, and sensitive than gel electrophoresis method to characterize PCR amplicons.
Leukotriene receptor antagonist use and cognitive decline in normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s dementia
Authors: Xiong Lisa Y. , Ouk Michael , Wu Che-Yuan , Rabin Jennifer S. , Lanctôt Krista L. , Herrmann Nathan , Black Sandra E. , Edwards Jodi D. , Swardfager Walter
Published: September 2021

Background

Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) alleviate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology and improve cognition in animal models; however, clinical evidence is limited. This study aimed to explore the associations between the use of LTRAs (montelukast or zafirlukast) and cognitive performance in people with normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or AD dementia. We hypothesized that LTRA use would be associated with better cognitive performance over time.

Methods

This longitudinal observational study used data from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center. Within groups of participants with normal cognition, MCI, or AD dementia, LTRA users were matched 1:3 to non-users using propensity score matching. Cognitive domains including immediate and delayed memory (Wechsler Memory Scale Revised-Logical Memory IA and IIA), psychomotor processing speed (Digit Symbol Substitution Test), and language (animal naming, vegetable naming, and Boston Naming Test) were compared between users and non-users in mixed-effects linear or Poisson regression models.

Results

In AD dementia, LTRA use was associated with a slower decline in psychomotor processing speed, as measured by the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (Β = 1.466 [0.253, 2.678] symbols/year, n = 442), and language, as measured by animal naming (Β = 0.541 [0.215, 0.866] animals/year, n = 566), vegetable naming (B = 0.309 [0.056, 0.561] vegetables/year, n = 565), and the Boston Naming Test (B = 0.529 [0.005, 1.053] items/year, n = 561). Effect sizes were small but persisted after controlling for a 10% false discovery rate. LTRA use was not associated with changes in memory performance in AD, nor was it associated with changes in cognitive performance in people with normal cognition or MCI. In a post hoc analysis, LTRA use was associated with a slower decline in clinical progression in MCI (B = −0.200 [−0.380, −0.019] points/year, n = 800) and AD dementia (B = −0.321 [−0.597, −0.046] points/year, n = 604) as measured by CDR Sum of Boxes.

Conclusions

The use of LTRAs was associated with preserved function in non-amnestic cognitive domains in AD dementia. The role of leukotrienes and their receptors in cognitive decline warrants further investigation and the leukotriene pathway may represent a target for AD treatment.
Influence of Trichoderma asperellum and Bacillus subtilis as biocontrol and plant growth promoting agents on soil microbiota
Authors: Senkovs Maris , Nikolajeva Vizma , Makarenkova Galina , Petrina Zaiga
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The manipulation of soil microbiota can involve changes in microbial diversity and microbial activities, and it is carried out for practical purposes. The microbial diversity can be modified by the inoculation of beneficial microorganisms into soil or by agricultural management practices. This study provides information on the influence of introducing beneficial soil microorganisms on soil indigenous microbiota. The aim of this study was to determine how biocontrol and plant growth promoting agents Trichoderma asperellum and Bacillus subtilis and their consortium affect indigenous soil microbiota without placing emphasis on the plant as a determinant of change.

Methods

Experimental soil samples were treated with B. subtilis and T. asperellum and their consortium. The shift of number of bacterial and fungal CFUs in soil was determined. Biolog EcoPlate assay demonstrated the metabolic activity of microorganisms in soil. The concentration of Trichoderma genus, Firmicutes, Gammaproteobacteria and Acidobacteria DNA in soil samples was determined by molecular methods. A correlation analysis was performed between microbiological and molecular data.

Results

Soil treatment with T. asperellum, B. subtilis and the plant pathogenic fungus Botrytis cinerea changed the number of CFUs and amplified DNA fragments of certain taxa. The study showed that added microorganisms did not significantly affect the metabolic diversity of the community and Shannon-Wiener biodiversity index but change the utilization of carbohydrates, complex carbon compounds and organic phosphorus compounds.

Conclusion

Introduced biocontrol and plant growth promoting agents T. asperellum and B. subtilis survive in soil during a 60-day experiment and influence composition and functionality of indigenous populations. Whereas B. subtilis and T. asperellum and their consortium are inhibitors of the pathogenic fungus B. cinerea, this could further positively affect specific crops.
Spontaneous massive hemothorax as a complication of necrotizing pneumonia in a patient with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 induced acute respiratory distress syndrome: a case report
Authors: Jung Carolin , Gillmann Hans-Joerg , Stueber Thomas , Hinken Lukas
Published: September 2021

Background

We present an unusual bleeding complication in a patient with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome in coronavirus disease 2019.

Case presentation

The patient, a 63-year-old Caucasian man, received venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support after rapid deterioration of lung function on day 6 after admission to hospital. After initial stabilization on lung protective ventilation and prone positioning, he started to develop mild bleeding complications until he went into occult profound hemorrhagic shock. Causative was a massive hemothorax of the right hemithorax with mediastinal shifting due to spontaneous bleeding from a pulmonal artery in a heavily remodeled right inferior lobe. Histopathological examination of the resected tissue showed signs of an organizing fibrinous pneumonia with focal parenchyma necrosis. After surviving a massive bleeding event caused by necrotizing pneumonia, the patient made a swift recovery and was discharged to rehabilitation 31 days after initial hospital admission.

Conclusions

The combination of severely elevated inflammatory markers and pulmonary hemorrhage should arouse suspicion of necrotizing pneumonia. In necrotizing pneumonia, the possibility of severe intrathoracic bleeding complications should be kept in mind if it comes to sudden deterioration of the patient.
Bovine-associated non-aureus staphylococci suppress Staphylococcus aureus biofilm dispersal in vitro yet not through agr regulation
Authors: Toledo-Silva Bruno , de Souza Fernando N. , Mertens Kristien , Piepers Sofie , Haesebrouck Freddy , De Vliegher Sarne
Published: September 2021

Biofilm formation is a significant virulence factor in Staphylococcus (S.) aureus strains causing subclinical mastitis in dairy cows. A role of environmental signals and communication systems in biofilm development, such as the agr system in S. aureus, is suggested. In the context of multispecies biofilm communities, the presence of non-aureus staphylococci (NAS) might influence S. aureus colonization of the bovine mammary gland, yet, such interspecies interactions have been poorly studied. We determined whether 34 S. chromogenes, 11 S. epidermidis, and 14 S. simulans isolates originating from bovine milk samples and teat apices (TA) were able to affect biofilm formation and dispersion of S. aureus, and if so, how isolate traits such as the capacity to regulate the S. aureus agr quorum sensing system are determinants in this process. The capacity of an agr-positive S. aureus strain to form biofilm was increased more in the presence of S. chromogenes than in the presence of S. simulans and S. epidermidis isolates and in the presence of NAS isolates that do not harbor biofilm related genes. On the other hand, biofilm dispersion of this particular S. aureus strain was suppressed by NAS as a group, an effect that was more pronounced by isolates from TA. Furthermore, the observed effects on biofilm formation and dispersion of the agr-positive S. aureus strain as well as of an agr-negative S. aureus strain did not depend on the capacity of NAS to repress the agr system.
Physical activity, resilience, emotions, moods, and weight control, during the COVID-19 global crisis
Authors: Zach Sima , Fernandez-Rio Javier , Zeev Aviva , Ophir Miki , Eilat-Adar Sigal
Published: September 2021

Objectives

This study aimed at exploring the relationships between physical activity, weight control, and psycho-social aspects of the COVID-19 lockdown, which have characterized the Israeli population’s behavior during the COVID-19 global crisis.

Design

Cross-sectional survey research.

Methods

Participants included 1855 men and women aged 18 and above, from different regions in the country and representing different sectors. They were recruited through the social media in a “snowball” sampling, and filled out a self-administered six-part survey: Demographic background, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the positive and negative affect scales (PANAS), the Conor and Davidson resilience scale, a questionnaire for measuring depressive symptoms, and questions regarding weight change based on the Israeli National Health and Nutrition (MABAT) survey.

Results

Routine physical activity (PA) was reported by 76.3% of the participants before the lockdown, 19.3% stopped exercising during this period, and 9.3% began exercising during the lockdown. The participants who were physically active during the lockdown period reported a higher level of resilience and positive feelings, and a lower level of depression, compared with those who were not physically active.

People who were physically active during the lockdown maintained their weight compared with those who were inactive. Concerning weight change, 44.8% of the respondents maintained their weight, and a higher percentage of people reported weight gain than those who reported weight loss.

Conclusions

Continuous PA before and during the COVID-19 lockdown were associated with higher resilience and positive emotions, and depressive symptoms, in people aged 18 and above. Although a causal link cannot be established, in light of the results of the present study, encouraging physical activity may contribute to improving mental health and a sense of self-efficacy, as well as to maintaining weight during a crisis.
Application of some special operators on the analysis of a new generalized fractional Navier problem in the context of q-calculus
Authors: Etemad Sina , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Imran Atika , Hussain Azhar , Baleanu Dumitru , Rezapour Shahram
Published: September 2021

The key objective of this study is determining several existence criteria for the sequential generalized fractional models of an elastic beam, fourth-order Navier equation in the context of quantum calculus (q-calculus). The required way to accomplish the desired goal is that we first explore an integral equation of fractional order w.r.t. q-RL-integrals. Then, for the existence of solutions, we utilize some fixed point and endpoint conditions with the aid of some new special operators belonging to operator subclasses, orbital α-admissible and α-ψ-contractive operators and multivalued operators involving approximate endpoint criteria, which are constructed by using aforementioned integral equation. Furthermore, we design two examples to numerically analyze our results.
Impact of climate change on biodiversity and food security: a global perspective—a review article
Authors: Muluneh Melese Genete
Published: September 2021

Climate change is happening due to natural factors and human activities. It expressively alters biodiversity, agricultural production, and food security. Mainly, narrowly adapted and endemic species are under extinction. Accordingly, concerns over species extinction are warranted as it provides food for all life forms and primary health care for more than 60–80% of humans globally. Nevertheless, the impact of climate change on biodiversity and food security has been recognized, little is explored compared to the magnitude of the problem globally. Therefore, the objectives of this review are to identify, appraise, and synthesize the link between climate change, biodiversity, and food security. Data, climatic models, emission, migration, and extinction scenarios, and outputs from previous publications were used. Due to climate change, distributions of species have shifted to higher elevations at a median rate of 11.0 m and 16.9 km per decade to higher latitudes. Accordingly, extinction rates of 1103 species under migration scenarios, provide 21–23% with unlimited migration and 38–52% with no migration. When an environmental variation occurs on a timescale shorter than the life of the plant any response could be in terms of a plastic phenotype. However, phenotypic plasticity could buffer species against the long-term effects of climate change. Furthermore, climate change affects food security particularly in communities and locations that depend on rain-fed agriculture. Crops and plants have thresholds beyond which growth and yield are compromised. Accordingly, agricultural yields in Africa alone could be decline by more than 30% in 2050. Therefore, solving food shortages through bringing extra land into agriculture and exploiting new fish stocks is a costly solution, when protecting biodiversity is given priority. Therefore, mitigating food waste, compensating food-insecure people conserving biodiversity, effective use of genetic resources, and traditional ecological knowledge could decrease further biodiversity loss, and meet food security under climate change scenarios. However, achieving food security under such scenario requires strong policies, releasing high-yielding stress resistant varieties, developing climate resilient irrigation structures, and agriculture. Therefore, degraded land restoration, land use changes, use of bio-energy, sustainable forest management, and community based biodiversity conservation are recommended to mitigate climate change impacts.
Localizing hot spots in Poisson radiation data matrices: nonnegative tensor factorization and phase congruency
Authors: Thomason Michael G. , Jordan Benjamin S.
Published: September 2021

Detecting and delineating hot spots in data from radiation sensors is required in applications ranging from monitoring large geospatial areas to imaging small objects in close proximity. This paper describes a computational method for localizing potential hot spots in matrices of independent Poisson data where, in numerical terms, a hot spot is a cluster of locally higher sample mean values (higher Poisson intensity) embedded in lower sample mean values (lower background intensity). Two numerical algorithms are computed sequentially for a 3D array of 2D matrices of gross Poisson counts: (1) nonnegative tensor factorization of the 3D array to maximize a Poisson likelihood and (2) phase congruency in pertinent matrices. The indicators of potential hot spots are closed contours in phase congruency in these matrices. The method is illustrated for simulated Poisson radiation datasets, including visualization of the phase congruency contours. The method may be useful in other applications in which there are matrices of nonnegative counts, provided that a Poisson distribution fits the dataset.
Public and decision-maker stated preferences for pharmaceutical subsidy decisions in Iran: an application of the discrete choice experiment
Authors: Afsharmanesh Gita , Rahimi Farimah , Zarei Leila , Peiravian Farzad , Mehralian Gholamhossein
Published: September 2021

Background

The argument about funding criteria poses challenges for health decision-makers in all countries. This study aimed to investigate the public and decision-maker preferences for pharmaceutical subsidy decisions in Iran.

Methods

A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was used for eliciting the preferences of the public and decision-makers. Four attributes including health gain after treatment, the severity of the disease, prevalence of the disease, and monthly out of pocket and relevant levels were designed in the form of hypothetical scenarios. The analysis was done by using conditional logit analysis.

Results

The results show all of four attributes are important for pharmaceutical subsidy decisions. But a medicine that improves health gain after treatment is more likely to be a choice in subsidy decisions (by relative importance of 28% for public and 42% for decision-makers). Out of pocket, severity, and prevalence of disease subsequently influence the preferences of the public and decision-makers, respectively. The greatest difference is observed in changing the health gain after treatment and out of pocket levels, between public and decision-makers.

Conclusion

This research reveals that the public is willing and able to provide preferences to inform policymakers for pharmaceutical decision-making; it also sets grounds for further studies.
Point-of-care 3D printing: a low-cost approach to teaching carotid artery stenting
Authors: De Backer Pieter , Allaeys Charlotte , Debbaut Charlotte , Beelen Roel
Published: September 2021

Background

Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS) is increasingly being used in selected patients as a minimal invasive approach to carotid endarterectomy. Despite the long standing tradition of endovascular treatments, visual feedback during stent-deployment is impossible to obtain as deployment is performed under fluoroscopic imaging. Furthermore, the concept of stent-placement is often still unclear to patients. 3D Printing allows to replicate patient-specific anatomies and deploy stents inside them to simulate procedures. As such these models are being used for endovascular training as well as patient education.

Purpose

To our knowledge, this study reports the first use of a low-cost patient-specific 3D printed model for teaching CAS deployment under direct visualization, without fluoroscopy.

Methodology

A CT-angiogram was segmented and converted to STL format using Mimics inPrint™ software. The carotid arteries were bilaterally truncated to fit the whole model on a Formlabs 2 printer without omitting the internal vessel diameter. Next, this model was offset using a 1 mm margin. A ridge was modelled on the original vessel anatomy which was subsequently subtracted from the offset model in order to obtain a deroofed 3D model. All vessels were truncated to facilitate post-processing, flow and guide wire placement.

Results

Carotid artery stents were successfully deployed inside the vessel. The deroofing allows for clear visualization of the bottlenecks and characteristics of CAS deployment and positioning, including stent foreshortening, tapering and recoil. This low-cost 3D model provides visual insights in stent deployment and positioning, and can allow for patient-specific procedure planning.

Conclusions

The presented approach demonstrates the use of low-cost 3D Printed CAS models in teaching complex stent behavior as observed during deployment. Two main findings are illustrated. On one hand, the feasibility of low-cost in-hospital model production is shown. On the other hand, the teaching of CAS deployment bottlenecks at the carotid level without the need for fluoroscopic guidance, is illustrated. The observed stent characteristics as shown during deployment are difficult to assess in radiologic models. Furthermore, printing patient-specific 3D models preoperatively could possibly assist in accurate patient selection, preoperative planning, case-specific training and patient education.
Evaluation of the antioxidant and cytotoxic potency of Euphorbia rigida and Arbutus andrachne methanol extracts in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines in vitro
Authors: Aslantürk Özlem Sultan , Yılmaz Ebru Şebnem , Aşkın Çelik Tülay , Güzel Yelda
Published: September 2021

Background

Ethnobotanical studies on plants and their active compounds take a great interest in traditional medicine. After pharmacological and toxicological studies, there will be a possibility to be used in therapy. This study aimed to examine the in vitro antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of the methanol extracts ofArbutus andrachneL. andEuphorbia rigidaM.Bieb. 10, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 150 µg mL−1concentrations ofA. andrachneandE. rigidawere tested for antioxidant activity by using DPPH radical scavenging assays, total antioxidant capacity (phosphomolybdate assay) and and metal ion chelating activity. In addition, in vitro cytotoxic effects of this plants methanol extracts on Hep3B and HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines were evaluated at 24, 48 and 72 h. The cytotoxicity test was carried using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] assay.

Results

Methanol extract obtained from both plants showed increased antioxidant activity depending on the increase in concentration. WhenA. andrachneandE. rigidamethanol extracts were compared in free DPPH scavenging activity, total antioxidant capacity and metal ion chelating activity,A. andrachnemethanol extract was found more effective thanE. rigida. Results from MTT assay revealed that except for 72 h treatment of HepG2 cells with 400 and 500 µgmL−1extract concentrations,A. andrachnemethanol extract did not show significant cytotoxic effects on either Hep3B or HepG2 cells at any concentration and treatment time. On the contrary, it significantly increased proliferation in Hep3B cells from 48 h and at a concentration of 100 µg mL−1.E. rigidamethanol extract exhibited statistically significant cytotoxic activity on HepG2 cells after 48 and 72 h treatment. However, the treatment concentrations ofE. rigidamethanol extract were not as effective on Hep3B cells as on HepG2 cells.

Conclusions

According to our findings, it was determined thatA. andrachnemethanol extract did not have cytotoxic activity on neither Hep3B nor HepG2 cells, whileE. rigidamethanol extract had cytotoxic activity especially on HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Further research is needed to identify and purify the active ingredients inE. rigidaextracts.