bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Sensor Time-Domain Electromagnetic Measurements for Quantitative Evaluation of Multi-Barrier Corrosion
Authors: Dutta Sushant , Iqbal Pervaiz , Olaiya Joseph
Published: November 2020

A state-of-the-art time-domain electromagnetic tool is presented that is capable of quantifying four barriers individually, and inspecting a fifth barrier qualitatively. The working physics and salient features of the tool and its underlying technology are described.

The new tool uses time-domain electromagnetic (TEM) or pulsed eddy current (PEC) technology, which has set the benchmark for individual quantitative tubular corrosion evaluation in multi-annular well systems (multiple concentric tubulars) in recent years. Time-domain electromagnetic tools widely used in the industry are currently capable of quantifying the individual metal thickness/loss in up to three barriers. The new tool employs three highly sensitive sensors to provide high-resolution analysis of the inner barrier, while providing sufficient radial depth of investigation for up to five barriers.

The above features and advantages of the new tool are supported by modeling and fixture test results. Additional modeling is shown to compare and contrast the resolution and radial depth of investigation of the three sensors. Case studies from actual wells are also presented that illustrate how three sensors enhance the performance of this technology. Corrosion evaluation of multi-barrier systems is a major component of well integrity management because it can provide timely and cost-effective information for planning well repairs if needed. The ability of the new tool to inspect more barriers is important because it gives the operator better information for more proactive well integrity management.

The novelty of the tool is in its ability to exploit the information-rich wideband pulsed excitation using three sensors that enhance the sensitivity to multiple barriers.
Experimental Investigation of Transport Mechanisms of Coal Particles and Gas-Water Interfacial Friction Factor for Stratified Flow in Coal-Bed Methane Horizontal Wellbore
Authors: Wang Dongying , Wang Zhiming , Chen Sirui , Wang Xiaoqiu , Zeng Quanshu
Published: November 2020

In coal-bed methane (CBM) horizontal wells, coal particles generally deposit on the low side of the wellbore to form a particle bed, which increases well pressure loss and even blocks the well. The coal particle bed undergoes changes in height and geometry with the fluctuation of gas and water production. Besides, with a low water flow rate, the water layer in CBM well is extremely thin. Both the dynamically changing particle bed and thin water layer make the conventional gas/water interfacial friction factor (fi) prediction method for stratified flow in horizontal pipe not suitable for that of CBM well.

Based on the large-size multiphase complex flow experimental equipment, a gas/liquid/solid three- phase flow experiment in horizontal pipe was carried out. In the experiment, gas flow rate, water flow rate and coal particle size were the three main factors considered. During the experiment, the gas/water flow pattern, migration of coal particles and evolution of blocked section could be investigated through the transparent pipe. Furthermore, due to the significant effect of coal particle bed on the height of gas-water interface, a non-negligible gravitational pressure drop calculated using water level differences is taken into consideration when obtaining the friction pressure drop.

In the experiment, three gas/water flow patterns including slug flow, stratified smooth flow and stratified wavy flow were observed. The coal particles mainly transport by means of rolling and saltating in the thin water layer under stratified flow and migrate by way of dispersing in water under slug flow. Besides, for particles no larger than 20-30 mesh, the blocked section tended to be overall driven forward like fluid by local high differential pressure and then led to the discontinuity of coal particle bed. However, for blocked section with particles not less than 10-20 mesh, instead of being driven forward, the coal particles on the top surface of it would be carried away layer by layer until the raised part was eroded off. Furthermore, as with the situation in gas/liquid two-phase stratified flow in horizontal pipe, fi in the experiment increases with liquid Reynolds number (ReL). However, it is much larger than that of gas/liquid stratified flow under the same ReL,. The analysis of experimental data presents a closely negative correlation between fi and the equivalent diameter of effective flow channel. As for the coal particle size, it has some indirect effects on fi through the equivalent diameter of effective flow channel.

This work is helpful for coal particle management and productivity prediction during CBM development, which may provide guidance to particle-bailing operation and also serve as a basis for theoretical mechanistic models to predict the gas/liquid interfacial friction factor of gas/liquid/solid three-phase stratified flow.
A Needs Assessment for Postgraduate Training in Selected Public Health Disciplines: Evidence from Health Services Organisations in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Bulawayo Maio , Silumbwe Adam , Munakampe Margarate Nzala , Mukumbuta Nawa , Musabula Juliet , Chewe Mwimba , Mweemba Chris , Michelo Charles , Hangoma Peter
Published: November 2020

Background: As most low and middle-income countries seek to achieve universal health coverage targets, there is an ever-increasing need to train human resources with the required core skills and competencies. This study reports on a needs assessment conducted among health services organisations (HSOs) to understand postgraduate training needs and service gaps for selected public health disciplines – Health Policy and Systems, Health Economics, and Healthcare Management and Planning – at the University of Zambia. Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional design, comprising qualitative and quantitative components. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews administered to 32 representatives of purposively sampled public and private health service organisations based in Lusaka Zambia. The health services organisations included regulatory authorities, research institutions, government ministries, insurance firms and other cooperating partners. Results: Overall (n=22), more than 68% of the stakeholders reported that they had no employees that were formally trained in the three disciplines. More than 90% of the stakeholders opined that training in these disciplines would be beneficial in providing competencies to strengthen service provision. The horizontal skills mismatch for health economics, and health services management and planning were found to be 93% and 100%, respectively. Among the critical public health training needs were: policy development and analysis, economic evaluation, and strategic management. Conclusions: This study confirms that introducing post-graduate training in the proposed public health disciplines will not only benefit Zambian health services organisations but also help strengthen the health systems in general. For other empirical contexts, the findings imply the need for the introduction of academic programmes which respond to ever-changing public health skills demanded. They should be matched with local priorities and service delivery.
Active constituents of Zanthoxylum nitidium from Yunnan Province against leukaemia cells in vitro
Authors: Deng Ying , Ding Tongtong , Deng Lulu , Hao Xiaojiang , Mu Shu Zhen
Published: November 2020

Zanthoxylum nitidium (Roxb.) DC (Rutaceae) is well known for inhibiting the proliferation of human gastric, liver, kidney and lung cancer cells, though research on its potential use in treating leukaemia is relatively rare. Twenty-six compounds were isolated from the chloroform and petroleum ether extracts of the roots and leaves of Z. nitidium. They were (+)-9′-O-transferuloyl-5, 5′-dimethoxylaricriresinol (1), 8-(3′-oxobut-1′-en-1′-yl)-5, 7-dimethoxy-coumarin (2), 5, 7, 8-trimethoxy-coumarin (3), 5-(3′, 3′-dimethyl-2′-butenyloxy)-7, 8-dimethoxy-coumarin (4), 2-(5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl) methyl acetate (5), 2′-(5, 6-dihydrochleletrythrine-6-yl) ethyl acetate (6), 6-acetonyldi-hydrochelerythrine (7), 6β-hydroxymethyldihydronitidine (8), bocconoline (9), zanthoxyline (10), O-methylzanthoxyline (11), rhoifoline B (12), N-nornitidine (13), nitidine (14), chelerythrine (15), 4-hydroxyl-7,8-dimethoxy-furoquinoline (16), dictamnine (17), γ-fagarine (18), skimmianine (19), robustine (20), R-(+)-platydesmine (21), 4-methoxyl-1-methyl-2-quinoline (22), 4-methoxy-2-quinolone (23), liriodenine (24), aurantiamide acetate (25), 10-O-demethyl-12-O-methylarnottianamide (26). Four among them, compounds 4-6 and 16, were first confirmed in this study by UV, IR, 1D, 2D NMR and HR-ESI-MS spectra. Compounds 1-2 and 11 were isolated from Z. nitidium for the first time. Of the assayed compounds, 1, 2, 9, 10, 14, 15 and 24, exhibited good inhibitory activities in the leukaemia cell line HEL, whereas compound 14 (IC50: 3.59 µM) and compound 24 (IC50: 15.95 µM) exhibited potent inhibitory activities. So, to further investigate the possible mechanisms, cell cycle and apoptosis assays were performed, which indicated that compound 14 causes obvious S-phase arrest in HEL cells and induced apoptosis, whereas compound 24 only induced apoptosis. The present results suggested both compounds 14 and 24 are promising potential anti-leukaemia drug candidates.
Long-term outcomes of fluoroscopy-guided tracheal stents removal under fluoroscopy guidance: comparison of tracheal fistulas and tracheal stenosis
Authors: Bi Yonghua , Li Jindong , Bai Liangliang , Han Xinwei , Ren Jianzhuang
Published: November 2020

Background: Endoscopic removal is the most common method for removal of tracheal stents. Few studies have reported the technique of fluoroscopy-guided stent removal for tracheal fistula and tracheal stenosis. We aimed to study the safety and efficacy of fluoroscopy-guided stent removal as well as the optimal duration for stent usage. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 152 patients who underwent fluoroscopy-guided stent removal from January 2011 to June 2017. Reasons for stent implantation were tracheal fistula in 85 patients (TF group), and tracheal stenosis in 67 patients (TS group). All patients underwent tracheal CT scans before stent removal and during follow up. The technical success rate, complications, and survival rate were compared between the two groups. Results: The technical success rate of stent removal was 98.9% and 97.4%, respectively for the TF and TS group. Removal was routine for half of patients, and in the remainder, excessive granulation tissue was the common indications for stent removal, which was found after stenting at 142.1±25.9 days in the TF group, and at 89.9±15.0 day in the TS group. The total incidence of complications was 21.1% and 22.4%, respectively, for the TF and TS groups. Perioperative death occurred in one patient in the TF group, and two patients in the TS group. Recurrence of fistula or stenosis requiring re-stenting was the most comment complication in both groups. The 0.5-, 3-, 6-year survival rates were 90.3%, 59.6%, and 36.1% for TF group, and 80.4%, 75.7%, 75.7% for TS group. Conclusions: Fluoroscopic removal of tracheal stents is safe and effective for both tracheal fistula and tracheal stenosis, with no significant difference in outcomes. Clinicians should pay attention to the risk of hemoptysis for patients with malignant tumors and a combination with endoscopic hemostasis may help improve its safety.
The Influence of Dust Levels on Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide and Global Temperature
Authors: Allen David , Sandakchiev Danail , HOOPER VINCENT , Ivanov Ivan
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this paper is to examine the causality between DUST, CO2 and temperature for the Vostok ice core data series [Vostok Data Series], dating from 420 000 years ago, and the EPICA C Dome data going back 800 000 years. In addition, the time-varying volatility and coefficient of variation in the CO2, dust and temperature is examined, as well as their dynamic correlations and interactions. We find a clear link between atmospheric C02 levels, dust and temperature, together with a bi-directional causality effects when applying both Granger Causality Tests (1969) and multi-directional Non-Linear analogues, i.e. Generalized Correlation. We apply both parametric and non-parametric statistical measures and testing. Linear interpolation with 100 years and 1000 years is applied to the three variables, in order to solve the problem of data points mismatch among them. The visualizations and descriptive statistics of the interpolated variables (using the two periods) show robustness in the results. The data analysis points out that variables are volatile, but their respective rolling mean and standard deviation remain stable. Additionally, 1000 years interpolated data suggests positive correlation between temperature and CO2, while dust is negatively correlated with both temperature and CO2.

The application of the non-parametric Generalized Measure of Correlation to our data sets, in a pairwise fashion suggested that CO2 better explains temperature than temperature does CO2, that temperature better explains dust than dust does temperature, and finally that CO2 better explains dust than vice -versa. The latter two pairs of relationships are negative.

The summary of the paper presents some avenues for further research, as well as some policy relevant suggestions.
Physical Activity in Sahara Moroccan Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: bahadi abdelaali , lagtarna Hamza , benbria sanae , zajjari yassir , kabbaj Driss El , zemraoui nadir
Published: November 2020

Objective: The evaluation of physical activity for chronic hemodialysis patients is a new approach for the patient global care. The objective of this work is to evaluate the physical activity in chronic hemodialysis patients and identify the risk factors associated with reduced physical activity. This is a prospective study during 6 months including 150 chronic hemodialysis patients in the Guelmim-Oued Noun Regionin moroccan sahara. We use Baecke's survey, translated and validated in Arabic local language. The socio-demographic, Clinical and biological data were completed during the interrogation and from the medical records of the patients. Results: The mean age of our patients was 54.6 +/- 16.4 years, with male predominance (59%). Most patients have a low education level and 60% were illiterate. Hypertension was found in 54% of our patients, diabetes in 39% and cardiovascular disease in 10% of patients. Low Physical activity was associated with gender (OR=4.05), age (OR=1.03) and education level (OR=0.2). Our work has met the various pre-established objectives, however other more specific studies must be conducted to better characterize the profile of physical activity in chronic hemodialysis patients.
Sestrin-mediated leucine sensing by mTORC1 is essential for detecting and adapting to a low leucine diet in Drosophila
Authors: Sabatini David , Perrimon Norbert , Gu Xin , Jouandin Patrick , Valenstein Max , Binari Richard , Locasale Jason , Allen Annamarie , Reid Michael
Published: November 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
How Can India Achieve Sustainable Transportation Goals Through Electrification?
Authors: De Krishnarti , Majumder Suman , Kumar Praveen , Biswas Pabitra
Published: November 2020

Air pollution has led to global temperature increases and health hazards. Emission reduction is a global
mission, and countries worldwide are working towards this goal. Transportation network electrification is a possible
solution. Electrifying only transit systems will not have much impact without energy policy evolution and renewable
source share enhancement. Since transportation needs rise with increasing population, emission intensity reduction steps
should be implemented soon to affect global emission reduction. This work proposes reducing the share of vehicles with
high per-passenger emissions and replacing them with mass transit systems under a generation scenario. It primarily
establishes emission trends under the current vehicle scenario with only fossil fuel-burning vehicles and electric vehicle
(EV) scenarios. It also considers different fuel mixes and finally compares all vehicle and fuel mix combinations. Results
reveal that the proposed transport and fuel mix options help to reach the target set by India under the Paris Agreement.
The Role of Undegraduate Medical Students Training in Respect for Patient Confidentiality
Authors: Beltran-Aroca Cristina M , Ruiz-Montero Rafael , Labella Fernando , Girela-López Eloy
Published: November 2020

Background: Encouraging professional integrity is vital in providing a standard of excellence in the quality of medical care and education, promoting a culture of respect and responsibility. The main objective of this work consisted of studying the relationship of medical students with the right to intimacy of patients in Spain, specifically analysing the conditions of accessing patients’ Clinical History (CH).Methods: A questionnaire was sent by e-mail to final-year students at 41 Spanish universities. It had 14 multiple choice and closed questions framed in 3 large blocks. The first one addressed basic general knowledge issues on the right to intimacy and the obligation of confidentiality. The two remaining blocks were made up of questions directed towards evaluating the frequency with which certain requirements and steps of action related to the students in attending the patient were performed, and regarding the guarantees in accessing and handling their CH both on paper and in the Electronic Medical Record.Results: A total of 245 valid replies was considered. 67.8% of participants were women, with an average age of 24.05±3.49 years. Up to 90.6% were aware that confidentiality affected the data in CHs, although 43.3% possessed non-anonymized photocopies of patients’ clinical reports outside healthcare context, and only 49.8% of the students were always adequately identified. 59.2% accessed patients’ CHs on some occasions by using passwords of healthcare professionals and 77.2% of them did not have patients’ express consent and 71.9% accessed a CH that was not anonymised.Conclusions: The role of healthcare institutions and universities is considered to be fundamental in implementing educational measures regarding the risks and ethical and legal problems arising from the use of CHs among professionals and students. A profound study of medical ethics is needed through the analysis of clinical cases, and direct exposure to situations in which the patient’s confidentiality is questioned.
Carbon Sequestration Using a Hypersaline Environment: A New Use for Solar Energy
Authors: David Eichler
Published: November 2020

BackgroundClimate change motivates consideration of alternative energy, including solar energy and conversion of biomass to fuel.ResultsIt is suggested here that a more economical way of reducing CO2 emission would be to preserve existing biomass with salt, and perhaps other sterilizing agents. It is found that the required solar energy to produce the salt from ocean water can produce an order of magnitude more mass in salt than the mass of combusted carbon needed to yield an equivalent amount of energy.ConclusionsPreservation, by salt alone, of biomass in the amount needed to offset global use of fossil fuel - would presently require increasing the world's salt production by an order of magnitude or so. On the other hand, this would require much less area per unit of avoided CO2 emission than converting solar energy directly to electricity.
The Role of Personality Associated with In-Hospital Delay in Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lu Zhenchan , Qiu Caixia , Yang Xiangyan , Ma Honggang , Shen Shuang , Xia Shenlin
Published: November 2020

Background: Decreasing the in-hospital delay is one of the critical effective strategies for thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke. we examined whether physician personality traits are associated with in-hospital delay in conducting treatment of intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke among neurologists.Methods: Overall 354 consecutive patients who received intravenous thrombolysis during a 2.5 year-period in emergency department were included. Self-reported questionnaires of the Big Five Inventory and demographic characteristics were distributed among 13 neurologists. Multivariable analysis was performed to explore the effects of the Big Five Personality Traits on in-hospital delay for acute ischemic stroke. Results: The traits of agreeableness in all physicians decreased the likelihood of in-hospital delay (OR: 0.831, 95% CI: 0.766-0.901, p<0.001). The traits of openness in female physicians (OR:0.646; 95% CI:0.469-0.890; p=0.008) and the traits of extraversion in male physicians (OR:0.613; 95% CI: 0.475-0.791; p<0.001) decreased the likelihood of in-hospital delay. The traits of conscientiousness in female (OR: 1.713, 95% CI: 1.209–2.427; p=0.002) and the traits of openness in male (OR: 1.431; 95% CI: 1.802-1.892; p=0.012) increased the likelihood of in-hospital delay. Conclusions: The study demonstrate that the personality traits of physician are associated with in-hospital delay for thrombolytic therapy in acute ischemic stroke.
Using Redox Potential as a Feasible Marker for Banked Blood Quality and the State of Oxidative Stress in Stored Red Blood Cells
Authors: Daniels Rodney C , Jun Hyesun , Davenport Robertson D , Collinson Maryanne M , Ward Kevin R
Published: November 2020

Background Stored Red Blood Cells (RBCs) may undergo oxidative stress over time, with functional changes affecting critical tasks such as oxygen delivery. Central to these changes are oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions and the redox potential (RP) that must be maintained for proper cell function. RP imbalance can lead to oxidative stress that may contribute to storage lesions and transfusion-related morbidities. Direct measures of RP may allow for evaluation of erythrocyte quality and enable corrections of RP prior to transfusion. Methods Multiple random RBC segments were tested, ranging in age from 5 to 40 days at 5 day intervals. RP was recorded by measuring open circuit potential of RBCs using novel nanoporous gold electrodes with Ag/AgCl reference. RP measures were also performed on peripheral venous blood samples from 10 healthy volunteers. RP measures were compared between groups of aged RBCs, and with volunteer blood. Results Stored RBCs show time-dependent increases in RP. There were significant differences in Day 5 RP compared to all other groups (p≤0.005), Day 10-15 vs ages ≥ Day 20 (p≤0.025), Day 20-25 vs Day 40 (p=0.039), and all groups compared to healthy volunteers. RP became more positive over time suggesting ongoing oxidation as RBCs age. However, storage time alone does not predict the ultimate RP value measured from a given unit.Conclusions There are significant differences in RP between freshly stored RBCs and all others, with RP becoming more positive over time. However, storage time alone does not predict RP, indicating RP screening may be important independent of storage time and may serve as a marker of RBC quality and state of oxidative stress. RP measurements may also provide a target by which to restore RP balance in aged pRBCs, improving their clinical effectiveness while reducing associated morbidities.
Association between insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin resistance in obese prepubertal boys: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kuang Jiangying , Zhang Li , Xu Yueqin , Xue Jiang , liang shuang
Published: November 2020

Background

As one of the most common features of obesity, insulin resistance is central to the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. Low insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) levels have been proven to be associated with many traditional cardiovascular risk factors, but it still remains controversy with the relationship between IGF-1 and insulin resistance. Accordingly, the main purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between IGF-1 and insulin resistance in obese prepubertal boys.
Methods

We used whole body insulin sensitivity index (WBISI) to represent insulin resistance. 70 obese prepubertal boys were included in this study, and the obese subjects were divided into two groups by using 1.285 as a threshold value for WBISI. Clinical examination and laboratory examinations were assessed for all participants.
Results

Among obese boys, the group of children with WBISI ≤ 1.285 had lower IGF-1 standard deviation scores (SDS) (p = 0.021) than WBISI > 1.285 group. The results of multivariate stepwise regression analysis show that WBISI was positively correlated with IGF-1 SDS (β = 1.726, p = 0.002) after adjusting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Conclusion

IGF-1 SDS was negatively associated with insulin resistance in obese prepubertal boys, independent of other traditional cardiovascular disease risk markers.
Comparison of Ictal Brain Perfusion SPECT With 99mTc-HMPAO Versus 99mTc-ECD for Identification of The Epileptic Seizure Onset Zone
Authors: Jaber Mariam , Taherpour Jila , Voges Berthold , Apostolova Ivayla , Sauvigny Thomas , House Patrick M. , Lanz Michael , Lindenau Matthias , Klutmann Susanne , Martens Tobias , Stodieck Stefan , Buchert Ralph
Published: November 2020

Background: The chemical microspheres 99mTc-HMPAO and 99mTc-ECD are widely used as tracers in ictal brain perfusion SPECT for identification of the seizure onset zone (SOZ) in presurgical evaluation of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy and uncertainty of SOZ localization after standard diagnostic workup. For both tracers there are theoretical arguments to favor it over the other for this task. The aim of this study was to compare the performance of ictal brain perfusion SPECT between 99mTc-HMPAO and 99mTc-ECD in a rather large patient sample.Methods: The study retrospectively included 196 patients from clinical routine in whom ictal perfusion SPECT had been performed with stabilized 99mTc-HMPAO (n = 110) or 99mTc-ECD (n = 86). Lateralization and localization of the SOZ was obtained by the consensus of two independent readers who visually inspected the SPECT images retrospectively. Results: The 99mTc-HMPAO group and the 99mTc-ECD group were well matched with respect to age, sex, age at first seizure, duration of disease, seizure frequency, history of previous brain surgery, and findings of presurgical MRI. The tracer groups differed significantly with respect to the latency of tracer injection (median latency 4 s longer in the 99mTc-HMPAO group), duration of the seizure after tracer injection (25 s shorter in the 99mTc-HMPAO group), tracer dose (70 MBq higher in the 99mTc-HMPAO group), and delay of the SPECT acquisition after tracer injection (63 min longer in the 99mTc-HMPAO group). The fraction of lateralising ictal SPECT did not differ significantly between the 99mTc-HMPAO and the 99mTc-ECD group (65.5% versus 72.1%, p = 0.355). Sensitivity of ictal perfusion SPECT (independent of the tracer) for correct localization of the SOZ in 62 patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and at least worthwhile improvement (Engel scale ≤ III) 12 months after temporal epilepsy surgery was 63%.Conclusions: This study does not provide evidence to favor 99mTc-HMPAO or 99mTc-ECD for identification of the SOZ by ictal perfusion SPECT in patients with drug resistant epilepsy.
Assessment of the Effects of Stretch-Injury on Primary Rat Microglia
Authors: Shaughness Mike , Byrnes Kimberly
Published: November 2020

Background: Mechanical stretch-injury is a prominent force involved in the etiology of traumatic brain injury (TBI). It is known to directly cause damage and dysfunction in neurons, astrocytes, and endothelial cells. However, the deleterious effects of stretch-injury on microglia, the brain’s primary immunocompetent cell, are currently unknown. Methods: The Cell Injury Controller II (CICII), a validated model of cellular neurotrauma, was used to induce a mechanical stretch-injury in primary rat microglia. Statistical analysis utilized student t-test and one and two way-ANOVAs with Tukey’s and Sidak’s multiple comparisons, respectively. Results: Cells exposed to stretch-injury showed no signs of membrane permeability, necrosis, or apoptosis, as measured by media derived lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cleaved-caspase 3 immunocytochemistry, respectively. Interestingly, injured cells displayed a functional deficit in production nitric oxide (NO), identified by media assay and immunocytochemistry, at 6, 12, 18, and 48 hours post-injury. Furthermore, gene expression analysis revealed the expression of inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-10 and enzyme arginase-1 was significantly down-regulated at 12 hours post-injury. Time course evaluation of migration, using a cell exclusion zone assay, showed stretch-injured cells display decreased migration into the exclusion zone at 48 and 72 hours post-stretch. Lastly, coinciding with the functional immune deficits, was a significant change in morphology, with process length decreasing and cell diameter increasing following an injury at 12 hours. Conclusions: Taken together, the data demonstrate that stretch-injury produces significant alterations in microglial function, which may have marked impact on their response to injury or their interaction with other cells.
Indoleamine-2,3-Dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) Deficiency Attenuates Spontaneous Recurrent Seizures (SRS) after Status Epilepticus(SE) in the Lithium-Pilocarpine Model of Epilepsy
Authors: Deng Ning , Deng Ning , Hu Jiao , Hu Jiao , Hong Yu , Hong Yu , Ding Yuewen , Ding Yuewen , Xiong Yifan , Xiong Yifan , Wu Zhiyong , Wu Zhiyong , Xie Wei , Xie Wei
Published: November 2020

BackgroundIDO1 is the initial and rate-limiting enzyme that metabolizes tryptophan (TRP) to kynurenine (KYN). IDO1-dependent neurotoxic KYN metabolism plays a crucial role in pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders. However, the function of IDO1 in epilepsy is still unclear. MethodsPatients with epilepsy and controls were enrolled. Male C57BL/6 mice and IDO1 knockout (KO) mice were subjected to intraperitoneal injection of lithium and pilocarpine to induce epilepsy. The level of IDO1 and concentrations of TRP and KYN in the patients with epilepsy and epileptic mice were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) respectively. Then, SRS and neuronal damage was compared between KO and wild-type (WT) mice in lithium-pilocarpine-induced epilepsy. To explore underlying pathways involved in IDO1 deficiency, concentrations of kynurenic acid (KYNA) and quinolinic acid (QUIN), glial cells activation, major pro-inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidant enzymes activity were measured by LC-MS, immunohistochemistry and ELISA.ResultsIn this study, IDO1 level and KYN/TRP ratio were increased in the patients with epilepsy and epileptic mice. IDO1 deficiency attenuated the frequency, duration and severity of SRS and improved neuronal survival. Additionally, IDO1-/- epileptic mice showed a progressive decline in QUIN production, glial cells activation and pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhanced antioxidant enzymes activity.ConclusionsIDO1 deletion alleviated SRS and neuronal damage in the chronic period after SE through a reduction in IDO1-dependent neurotoxic metabolites, which finally inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokine production and glial cells activation and improved antioxidant enzymes activity. Our study demonstrates that IDO1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of epilepsy and has potential to be a therapeutic target for the treatment of epilepsy.
The Pathogen Genomics in Public HeAlth Surveillance Evaluation (PG-PHASE) Framework: An Implementation Science Approach to Evaluating Pathogen Whole Genome Sequencing in Public Health
Authors: Ferdinand Angeline S , Kelaher Margaret , Lane Courtney R , Silva Anders Gonçalves da , Sherry Norelle , Ballard Susan A , Andersson Patiyan , Hoang Tuyet , Denholm Justin T , Easton Marion , Howden Benjamin P , Williamson Deborah A
Published: November 2020

Background Pathogen whole genome sequencing (WGS) is being incorporated into public health surveillance and disease control systems worldwide and has the potential to make significant contributions to infectious disease surveillance, outbreak investigation and infection prevention and control. However, to date, there are limited data regarding: (i) the optimal models for integration of genomic data into epidemiological investigations, and (ii) how to quantify and evaluate public health impacts resulting from genomic epidemiological investigations. Methods We developed the Pathogen Genomics in Public HeAlth Surveillance Evaluation (PG-PHASE) Framework to guide examination of the use of WGS in public health surveillance and disease control. We illustrate the use of this framework with three pathogens as case studies: Listeria monocytogenes, Mycobacterium tuberculosis and SARS-CoV-2. Results The framework utilises an adaptable whole-of-system approach towards understanding how interconnected elements in the public health application of pathogen genomics contribute to public health processes and outcomes. The three phases of the PG-PHASE Framework are designed to support understanding of WGS laboratory processes, analysis, reporting and data sharing, and how genomic data are utilised in public health practice across all stages, from the decision to send an isolate or sample for sequencing to the use of sequence data in public health surveillance, investigation and decision-making. Importantly, the phases can be used separately or in conjunction, depending on the need of the evaluator. Subsequent to conducting evaluation underpinned by the framework, avenues may be developed for strategic investment or interventions to improve utilisation of whole genome sequencing. Conclusions Comprehensive evaluation is critical to support health departments, public health laboratories and other stakeholders to successfully incorporate microbial genomics into public health practice. The PG-PHASE Framework aims to assist public health laboratories, health departments and authorities who are either considering transitioning to whole genome sequencing or intending to assess the integration of WGS in public health practice, including the capacity to detect and respond to outbreaks and associated costs, challenges and facilitators in the utilisation of microbial genomics and public health impacts.
Quality of Life of University Students During The COVID-19 Pandemic: Age, History of Medical Illness, Religious Coping, COVID-19 Related Stressors, Psychological Factors and Social Support Were Predictive of Quality of Life
Authors: Abdullah Mohammad Farris Iman Leong Bin , Murad Nor Shuhada , Teoh Soo Huat , Mohamad Mohd Afifuddin
Published: November 2020

Background: In Malaysia, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) began to spread in March 2020, and the infection has not been fully controlled since then. Despite the significant impact of COVID-19 on mental health among university students, data on the related quality of life (QoL) are lacking in this group of the population. This study aimed to evaluate QoL and determine its association with various factors and social support in a cohort of Malaysian university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This online, cross-sectional survey recruited 316 university students from the medical faculties of two Malaysian public universities. They were administered a self-reported questionnaire to gather data on demographic, personal, clinical and psychological characteristics; the 21-item depression, anxiety and stress scale (DASS-21) to assess the severity of their depressive, anxiety and stress symptoms; the multidimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS) to assess the degree of social support; and the World Health Organization quality of life-BREF (WHOQoL-BREF) to assess QoL. Results: The psychological and social QoL scores were lower than the non-pandemic norms of the general population, while the physical health and environmental QoL scores were comparable. Religious coping; greater number of hours of online classes attended; and greater social support from family, friends and significant others were found to be significantly associated with higher QoL among the participants. Older age, frustration because of loss of daily routine and study disruption, living in areas with a high prevalence of COVID-19 cases, a history of pre-existing medical illness, and a higher severity of depressive and anxiety symptoms were significantly associated with lower QoL. Conclusion: COVID-19 impaired the QoL of university students even after the movement control order (MCO) was lifted. Our findings indicated the pivotal role of online mental and physical healthcare services to improve the QoL of university students during the uncertain time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Heart Rate Variability Using The Analgesia Nociception Index as A Predictor of Illness Severity and Mortality in Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19.
Authors: Aragón-Benedí Cristian , Oliver-Forniés Pablo , Galluccio Felice , Altinpulluk Ece Yamak , Ergonenc Tolga , Allam Abdallah El Sayed , Salazar Carlos , Fajardo-Pérez Mario
Published: November 2020

Introduction A balance between the autonomic nervous system and the immune system against SARS-COV-2 is critical in the resolution of its severe macrophage proinflammatory activation. To demonstrate that most severely ill COVID-19 patients will show a depletion of the sympathetic nervous system and a predominance of parasympathetic tone. We hypothesized that a low energy of an autonomic nervous system and a high level of the high frequency component of heart rate variability may be related to the number of proinflammatory cytokines and could have a predictive value in terms of severity and mortality in critically ill patients suffering from COVID-19; Materials and Methods Single-centre, prospective, observational pilot study which included COVID-19 patients admitted to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. High frequency (HF) component of heart rate variability (HRV) and energy of the autonomic nervous system were recorded using analgesia nociception index monitor (ANI). To estimate the severity and mortality we used the SOFA score and the date of discharge or date of death.Results A total of fourteen patients were finally included in the study. High-frequency component of heart rate variability (ANIm) were higher in the non-survivor group (p = 0.003) and were correlated with higher IL-6 levels (p = 0.002) Energy was inversely correlated with SOFA (p = 0.029). Limit value at 80 of ANIm, predicted mortalities with the sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 85.7%. In the case of energy, a limit value of 0.41 predicted mortality with all predictive values of 71.4%.Conclusion The different components of the spectral analysis of HRV allow us to infer the association between the autonomic nervous system and critically ill patients’ immune system. A low autonomic nervous system activity and a predominance of the parasympathetic system due to sympathetic depletion in patients are associated with a worse prognosis and higher mortality.
Influence of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Gene Expression in Women with Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Costa-Silva Danylo Rafhael , Barros-Oliveira Maria da Conceição , Campos-Verdes Larysse Cardoso , Pereira Renato de Oliveira , Tavares Cleciton Braga , Melo Mariella de Almeida , Neto Fidelis Manes , Cardoso Arquimedes Cavalcante , Coelho Eid Gonçalves , Vale Edison de Araujo , Santos Alesse Ribeiro dos , Viana Jackeline Lopes , Vieira-Valença Samara Fernanda , Vasconcelos-Valença Rodrigo José de , Pinho-Sobral André Luiz , Sousa Emerson Brandão , Lopes-Costa Pedro Vitor , Gebrim Luiz Henrique , Silva Benedito Borges da
Published: November 2020

Background: Breast cancer, the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, one of the major risk factors for breast cancer is genetic changes. Changes in the expression levels of the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) gene have been associated with increased risk and aggressiveness of breast cancer. The IGF-1 gene encodes the IGF-1 peptide that is present in most human tissues, as in the normal and neoplastic mammary gland. Here, we conducted a systematic review to investigate the influence of IGF-1 gene expression levels in women with breast cancer.Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant studies published between February 2 and May 15, 2019, using inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. We analyzed the studies to find association between IGF-1gene expression and breast cancer.Results: A growing number of studies in women with breast cancer support, with controversial results, the influence of IGF-1 gene expression levels on clinical-pathological factors, disease-free survival, overall survival, and resistance to tamoxifen.Conclusions: Therefore, the elucidation of IGF-1 gene expression patterns through further studies may enable the characterization of women at high risk for breast cancer, as well as the development of effective prognostic and therapeutic strategies.
The Tissue Expression of MCT3, MCT8, and MCT9 Genes in Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Sohrabi Ehsan , Moslemi Masoumeh , Rezaie Ehsan , Nafissi Nahid , Afkhami Hamed , Khaledi Mansoor , Fathi Javad , Zekri Ali
Published: November 2020

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is a common malignancy with a high mortality rate. Malignant cell transformation is associated with metabolic changes. One group pf proteins that are affected are the monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs-SLC16A). The MCTs comprise 14 members, and they play an important role in the growth, proliferation, and metabolism of cancer cells by transporting monocarboxylates such as lactate, pyruvate and thyroid hormones. We aimed to evaluate the expression of MCT3 (SLC16A8), MCT8 (SLC16A2) and MCT9 (SLC16A9) genes in breast cancer samples, comparing to normal adjacent tissues.Methods: Forty paired breast cancer tumor samples, the adjacent non-tumor and five healthy tissues were collected. Three cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and SKBR3) were also analysed. The expression of SLC16A8, SLC16A2 and SLC16A9 were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The relationship between gene expression with the pathological features of the tumors, and the hormone receptors status [estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)] of the patients tumors were also analyzed. Microarray data and survival analyses for each of the candidate genes was undertakenResults: There was a significantly lower expression of the MCT3 gene in tumor samples compared to adjacent normal tissue and healthy samples (P-value < 0.05). There was a significant difference in the expression of all three candidate genes between the BC tissues and normal tissues, and for the, tissues with different hormone receptor status (ER, PR and HER2) and the molecular subtypes. Altered MCT8 and MCT9 gene expression was associated with a reduced survivalConclusion: MCT3 expression is significantly downregulated in breast cancer tissue. MCT3 may represent a novel therapeutic target in breast cancer patients, or in some hormone receptor subgroups, such as HER2-negative or triple-negative.
Identification of Novel Genome-Wide Associations for Oral Inflammatory Traits
Authors: Jin Yanjiao , Yang Jie , Zhang Shuyue , Li Jin , Wang Songlin
Published: November 2020

Background: Oral diseases impact the majority of the world’s population. The following traits are common in oral inflammatory diseases: mouth ulcers, painful gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth, and toothache. Despite the prevalence of genome-wide association studies, the associations between these traits and common genomic variants, and whether pleiotropic loci are shared by some of these traits remain poorly understood. Methods: In this work, we conducted multi-trait joint analyses based on the summary statistics of genome-wide association studies of these five oral inflammatory traits from the UK Biobank, each of which is comprised of over 10,000 cases and over 300,000 controls. We estimated the genetic correlations between the five traits. We conducted fine-mapping and functional annotation based on multi-omics data to better understand the biological functions of the potential causal variants at each locus. To identify the pathways in which the candidate genes were mainly involved, we applied gene-set enrichment analysis, and further performed protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses.Results: We identified 39 association signals that surpassed genome-wide significance, including three that were shared between two or more oral inflammatory traits, consistent with a strong correlation. Among these genome-wide significant loci, two were novel for both painful gums and toothache. We performed fine-mapping and identified causal variants at each novel locus. Further functional annotation based on multi-omics data suggested IL10 and IL12A/TRIM59 as potential candidate genes at the novel pleiotropic loci, respectively. Subsequent analyses of pathway enrichment and protein-protein interaction networks suggested the involvement of candidate genes at genome-wide significant loci in immune regulation.Conclusions: Our results highlighted the importance of immune regulation in the pathogenesis of oral inflammatory diseases. Some common immune-related pleiotropic loci or genetic variants are shared by multiple oral inflammatory traits. These findings will be beneficial for risk prediction, prevention, and therapy of oral inflammatory diseases.
Acceleration Of Performance Recovery And Competitiveness Through Non – Banking Financing In SMEs Based On Green Economy: Impact Of Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sriy Sriyono , Biduri Sarwendah , Prayogi Bayu
Published: November 2020

The recovery of SMEs' performance due to the impact of Covid-19 is significant because SMEs have an essential role in the economy. Many previous studies have examined the effects of covid-19 on SMEs, but this research is only on fundamental recovery. This study will be very different because this research prioritizes the acceleration of performance recovery and SMEs' competitive advantage to conduct activities immediately. This study aims to accelerate the recovery of SMEs' performance affected bhealing19 and the benefits of competing through non-banking financing. This research type is interpretive qualitative using primary data through in-depth interviews; each in-depth interview lasts 45 t0 60 minutes on several important informants and secondary data as data support. Data validity test using credibility and transferability test, Data analysis technique using research data reduction, presenting data, drawing conclusion drawing. Based on the research results in the field and analysis, alternative non-banking financing is suitable for SMEs affected by covid-19. The conclusion of this study is to accelerate the recovery of performance and competitive advantage through non-banking funding because there are no complex requirements required, and the payment model is very light.