bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suprachoroidal Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide Plus Intravitreal Bevacizumab in Diabetic Macular Edema: A Randomized Pilot Trial
Authors: FAZEL FARHAD , MALEKAHMADI MOHAMMAD , FEIZI AWAT , OLIYA BEHROOZ , DINANI MEHDI TAVAKKOLI , FAZEL MOHAMMADREZA
Published: April 2022

Background: to investigate the efficacy of injecting suprachoroidal triamcinolone acetonide (SCTA) plus intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) into patients with center-involving diabetic macular edema (CI-DME).Methods: In this phase 2/3 randomized controlled pilot trial, sixty-six eyes with CI-DME and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of at most 20/50 Snellen chart were randomly assigned into two groups. Monotherapy arm received sham injection plus 3 monthly IVB doses and combination arm received a single dose of SCTA and 3 monthly IVB doses. The mean improvements in BCVA and Central subfield thickness (CST), over the three-month was considered the main efficacy outcomes. Results: The mean BCVA improvements were obtained respectively as -0.20±0.20 log [minimum angle of resolution (MAR)] (P=0.004) and 0.37±0.24 log MAR (P<0.001) in monotherapy and combination arms [between-group analysis (P=0.014)]. Significant improvements were also observed in CST (P=0.019) in the combination arm compared to the other. No adverse events (elevated intraocular pressure, cataract) were observed in any of the study arms.Conclusion: Significant improvements in BCVA and retinal anatomical outcomes demonstrated the additive effects of SCTA to those of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors with no short-term side effects and this combination appears to be a promising option in the management of patients with CI-DME.Trial Registration: The trial was registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20200314046761N1).
Synthesis of Amino Acids by Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2 on Chiral	Cu	Surfaces
Authors: Fang Yuxi , Liu Xi , Liu Zhipan , Han Lu , Ai Jing , Zhao Gui , Terasaki Osamu , Cui Cunhao , Yang Jiuzhong , Liu Chengyuan , Zhou Zhongyue , Chen Liwei , Che Shunai
Published: April 2022

CO2 reduction and fixation products ranging from small molecules to biomolecules, are highly diverse in natural systems. Athough various multicarbon products of CO2 reduction were artificially obtained, the C3+ products with various functional groups (e.g., C-N and C=O bonds), especially biomolecules, have never been reported. Herein, we synthesized C3+ amino acids via electrocatalytic reduction from CO2 and NH3 using chiral Cu films (CCFs) as electrodes. Electron microscopy and theoretical calculations suggested that chiral kink sites Cu(653) is the most likely formed on the surface of CCFs fabricated by electrodeposition in the presence of Histidine (His). Serine (Ser), with an enantiomeric excess (ee) greater than 90% is the main component of various amino acids. Experimental and computational data showed that the 3-hydropyruvic acid formation from OCH2CO* is the stereo-determining step in the Ser formation pathway. The Cu(653) was speculated to be restricting the configuration changes of C3+ intermediates to involve a thermodynamically and kinetically favourable formation of enantiomeric Ser.
DDIT4 overexpression promotes cervical cancer metastasis via the activation of an epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Lin Xinxin , Yoshikawa Nobuhisa , Liu Wenting , Matsukawa Tetsuya , Nakamura Kae , Yoshihara Masato , Koya Yoshihiro , Sugiyama Mai , Tamauchi Satoshi , Ikeda Yoshiki , Yokoi Akira , Kajiyama Hiroaki
Published: April 2022

Metastasis is a major challenge in the treatment of cervical cancer patients. This study was aimed to identify a novel metastasis-promoting molecule and elucidate its functional role in cervical cancer. Multiple databases was used to identify molecules associated with metastasis of cervical cancer. DDIT4 (DNA-damage-inducible transcript 4), a hypoxia-inducible gene, was identified in this analysis. Correlation between DDIT4 expression and lymph node metastasis was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Transwell® assay and wound-healing assay to determine cell migration and invasion was performed. DDIT4 was knocked down using siRNA and lentiviral vectors. The potential downstream effects of DDIT4 were explored and verified by a gene set enrichment analysis and western blotting. The in vivo metastatic capability of cervical cancer regulated by DDIT4 was determined with the use of an intraperitoneal-injection mouse model. DDIT4 was an independent prognostic factor for patients with early-stage cervical cancer, according to both public database and our cohort. In our clinical samples, the expression of DDIT4 in immunohistochemistry was strongly associated with metastasis and hypoxia. The knockdown of DDIT4 attenuated the migration and invasion activity of tumor cells in vitro, and reduced the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) related proteins and the NF-κB pathway in cervical cancer cells. DDIT4 also promoted metastasis in the mouse model. Our results define the DDIT4 as a novel metastasis-promoting pathway of EMT and NF-κB pathway that mediates cancer migration and invasion. DDIT4 may thus become a prognostic marker and a potential target for cervical cancer metastasis.
Modeling a BCG Birth Dose-based Vaccination Program for Improved Hepatitis B Control in Uganda: Mixed-methods study
Authors: Makhoba Anthony , Nakibuuka Victoria , Mugenyi Martin , Nanjobe Plaxeda , Lwetabe Michael , Nyaranga⁶ Felistas , Kyoyagala Stella , Kumbakumba⁷ Elias , Scheifele David
Published: April 2022

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is mainly transmitted perinatally. Delaying the first dose of HBV vaccine to 6 weeks of age as is the current practice in Uganda may increase the risk of perinatal transmission. In this study, we aimed to assess the uptake of BCG vaccine within 24 hours after birth and to assess the feasibility of BCG/HBV vaccine co-administration in Uganda.Methods: This was a mixed-methods study. We retrospectively collected data on BCG vaccine uptake, the timing of vaccination, and reasons for missed/delayed vaccination, at two hospitals: capital city-based St. Francis Hospital Nsambya (SFHN), and upcountry-based Mbarara Regional Referral hospital. We also conducted a cross-sectional study at SFHN to explore factors associated with delayed or missed BCG vaccination within 24 hours after birth.Results: Of the 2,002 newborn babies randomly sampled, 1,534 (76.5%) received BCG vaccine within 24 hours. On chart review, 140 participants had identifiable reasons for delayed BCG vaccination as follows: admission to neonatal unit with birth asphyxia (56.2%, n= 73), and birth weight <2.5kg (30.8%, n=40). On interviewing 73 mothers at vaccination clinics, admission to a neonatal unit for prematurity (n= 42, 57.5%), birth asphyxia (n= 73, 56.2%) or birth weight < 2.5kg (n=40, 30.2%) were the reasons for missed/delayed vaccination. The median human cost for the BCG vaccination process was $0.14.Conclusions: Over three-fourth of neonates received their BCG vaccine within 24 hours after birth, providing a convincing basis for co-administration of BCG and HBV vaccines.
Serum bilirubin association with estimated glomerular filtration rate and other risk factors in the progression of chronic kidney disease among CKD patients: A Hospital-based cross sectional study design
Authors: Seyoum Fikadu , Zawdie Belay
Published: April 2022

Background
Chronic kidney disease is one of the most serious public health burdens globally, with significant morbidity, mortality, and reduced in patient life expectancy. Although the current marker of kidney disease is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), the serum creatinine used for GFR determination is influenced by many factors. Therefore, it has become increasingly important to search for possible additional parameters related to estimated glomerular filtration rate to enhance early detection of disease progression. This study aims to evaluate serum bilirubin parameter and its correlation with eGFR in the progression of chronic kidney disease among CKD patients on follow-up at Jimma University Medical Center.
Method
A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Jimma University Medical Center from November 5 to January 13, 2022. Using consecutive sampling technique, a total of 140 CKD follow-up patients were recruited into the current study. Data were collected using interviewer-based structured questionnaires, record reviews, and physical examinations. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25.0. The correlation between eGFR as well as other explanatory variables with serum bilirubin (total and direct) concentrations was examined by Pearson’s correlation analyses. Univariate and multivariate linear regression were used to test predictors of serum bilirubin (total and direct bilirubin) in the study participants.
Results
A total of 140 study participants were recruited for this study. Subjects included (54.3% [n = 76]) men and (45.7% [n = 64]) women, respectively. The mean (SD) age of study subjects was 51.04 ± 9.02 years with a minimum and maximum age of being 30 and 70 years old, respectively. A positive correlation was found between serum bilirubin and eGFR; total bilirubin(r = 0.868, P < 0.001), direct bilirubin (r = 0.641, P < 0.001). BMI was negatively correlated (r=-0.221, P < 0.009) with serum bilirubin value. Moreover, the eGFR value was positively associated (β = 0.04, P = < 0.001) with serum total bilirubin among study participants.
Conclusion
According to the results of the current study, estimated glomerular filtration rate were positively correlated with both serum total and direct bilirubin. Furthermore, eGFR was positively associated with serum total and direct bilirubin in the study subjects, whereas BMI was negatively associated with serum bilirubin in CKD participants. Therefore, low serum bilirubin (total and direct bilirubin) and increased body mass index are independent risk factors for disease progression in patients with CKD.
Gene sequencing and result analysis of balanced translocation carriers by third-generation gene sequencing technology
Authors: Zeng Xiaoqi , Lin Dandan , Liang Danhong , Huang Jingwen , Yi Jinsong , Lin Dianliang , Zhang Zhengmian
Published: April 2022

Because the total gene copy number remains constant and all genes are normally expressed, carriers of balanced chromosomal translocations usually have a normal phenotype but are able to produce many different types of gametes during meiosis, and unbalanced gametes lead to increased risks of infertility, recurrent spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, neonatal death or malformations and intellectual abnormalities in offspring. The key to balanced translocations lies in finding the breakpoints, but current genetic testing techniques are all short-read sequencing, with the disadvantage of procedural complexity and imprecision for precisely identifying the breakpoints. The latest third-generation sequencing technology overcomes these drawbacks and uses robust long-read sequencing to accurately and rapidly detect genome-wide information and identify breakpoint locations. In this paper, we performed whole genome long-read sequencing using an Oxford Nanopore sequencer to detect the breakpoints of four balanced chromosomal translocation carriers. The results showed that employing about ~ 10 × coverage confirmed 6 of the 8 breakpoints, of which, 2 had microdeletions / insertions identified near the breakpoints and 4 had breakpoints that disrupted the normal gene structure and were simultaneously tested for genome-wide SVs. The results show that whole genome long-read sequencing is an efficient method for pinpointing translocation breakpoints and providing genome-wide information, which is essential for medical genetics and preimplantation genetic testing.
Unit indicators of the greenhouse effect for CO2 and steam from H2O and their anthropogenic impact on the climate
Authors: V.M. Vladimir Zhmakin
Published: April 2022

The greenhouse effect from anthropogenic CO2 emissions into the atmosphere is currently determined at the level of expert assessments, and the unit is adopted as a unit for measuring the impact of greenhouse gases on the climate. The article is devoted to the establishment by mathematical methods of physical units of the greenhouse effect for CO2 and steam from H2O and their influence on the climate. The formula of the radiation equilibrium of the surface and atmosphere is derived for the evening time from the formula of the radiation balance of the Earth's surface. Data from Mars Pathfinder on this equilibrium were used to determine the unit greenhouse index for CO2, which was 0.0138 ±0.001 K m2kg-1. A similar indicator was found for H2O vapor equal to 0.0696 ± 0.004 K m2kg-1 based on the difference in temperature and humidity of desert and coastal areas. The integral temperature index of 0.263 ± 0.021 K m2 kg-1 of H2O vapors was determined by modeling and establishing the relationship between humidity and temperature during statistical processing of meteorological data. The greenhouse effect of CO2 and steam from H2O is insignificant due to the low average content. However, a small anthropogenic increment of CO2 contributes to the formation of a small portion of steam, which increases the temperature by heat transfer and gives a new portion of steam, etc., with an increase in temperature until noon exponentially. The anthropogenic increase in CO2 caused a rising in the H2O vapor content in the atmosphere and from him the near-surface temperature by 1.43 ± 0.11, and for human habitation areas - by 1.55 ± 0.12 K. The results of this work can be used to predict climate change and take measures to neutralize it.
Eicosanoid Lipidome Activation in the APOE4 Brain with Dementia
Authors: Yassine Hussein N. , Ebright Brandon , Assante Isaac , Poblete Roy , Wang Shaowei , Duro Marlon Vincent , Bennet David A. , Arvanitakis Zoe , Louie Stanley
Published: April 2022

Background: Chronic neuroinflammation is one of the hallmarks of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia pathogenesis. Carrying the Apolipoprotein ε4 (APOE4) allele has been associated with an accentuated response to brain inflammation and increases the risk of AD dementia progression. Among inflammation signaling pathways, aberrant eicosanoid activation plays a prominent role in neurodegeneration. Methods: Using brains from the Religious Order Study (ROS), this study compared measures of brain eicosanoid lipidome in older persons with AD dementia to age-matched controls with no cognitive impairment (NCI), stratified by APOE genotype. Results: Lipidomic analysis of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex demonstrated lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and DHA-derived neuroprotectin D1 (NPD-1) in persons with AD dementia, all of which associated with lower measures of cognitive function. In persons with dementia. A significant interaction was observed between carrying the APOE4 allele and higher levels of both pro-inflammatory lipids and pro-resolving eicosanoid lipids on measures of cognitive performance and on neuritic plaque burden. Furthermore, analysis of lipid metabolism pathways implicated activation of calcium dependent phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) enzymes. Conclusion: These findings implicate activation of the eicosanoid lipidome in the chronic unresolved state of inflammation in AD dementia, that is increased in carriers of the APOE4 allele, and identify potential therapeutic targets for resolving this chronic inflammatory state.
Pharmacokinetics, Bioequivalence and Safety of Cloperastine in Chinese Healthy Subjects under the Fasting and Postprandial Conditions
Authors: Gao Li-Chen , Luo Hong-Yu , Long Hui-Zhi , Zhou Zi-Wei , Xu Shuo-Guo , Li Feng-Jiao , Cheng Yan , Wen Dan-Dan , Deng Ping
Published: April 2022

Background: Cloperastine is a preferred pivotal antibechic drug, mainly used for the cough caused by respiratory diseases. Previous studies have proved that it is effective and safe in the patients. Methods: The present phase I trial was designed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics (PK), bioequivalence (BE) and safety of 10 mg cloperastine in Chinese healthy subjects after single-dose administration under the fasting and postprandial conditions. A total of 60 subjects were enrolled in either the fasting (28 subjects) or postprandial group (32 subjects). A two-cycle test was carried out with an interval of 7 days. The whole blood samples were collected for the PK and BE analysis before and after administration (0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 36, 48 h). The primary endpoints of the PK parameters for BE trial were the area under the plasma concentration time curve from zero to t and 72 h (AUC0-t), the maximal plasma concentration (Cmax), and the safety parameters as secondary endpoints were mainly the occurrence of adverse events (AE), vital signs, physical examination, electrocardiogram, and laboratory tests before and after the trial. Results: A total of 25 and 30 subjects in the fasting and postprandial groups completed this clinical trial, respectively. The geometric mean ratio (GMR) of test/reference (T/R) for Cmax and AUC0-72h were 102.05 % and 103.80 % in the fasting trial, respectively. And their 90% confidence interval (CI) were 93.63 %~111.22 % and 95.74 %~112.54 %, respectively. In the postprandial condition, the GMR of T/R for Cmax and AUC0-72h were 94.20 % and 98.78 %, respectively. And their 90 % CI were 87.44 %~101.49 % and 93.53 %~104.33 %, respectively. All the values were fell within the range of 80.00 %~125.00 %. Furthermore, no adverse reactions (ADR) and serious adverse events (SAE) occurred during the whole clinical trial. Conclusions: The results of this trial showed that the T and R tablets were bioequivalent under both conditions. Moreover, both preparations were tolerated well.Clinical Trial Registration: http://www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn/m_index.html, CTR20212515
Ways to Unravel the Clinical Potential of Carbon Ions for Head and Neck Cancer Reirradiation: Dosimetric Comparison and Local Failure Pattern Analysis as Part of the Prospective Randomized CARE Trial
Authors: Held Thomas , Tessonnier Thomas , Franke Henrik , Regnery Sebastian , Bauer Lukas , Weusthof Katharina , Harrabi Semi , Herfarth Klaus , Mairani Andrea , Debus Jürgen , Adeberg Sebastian
Published: April 2022

Background: Carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) yields biophysical advantages compared to photons but randomized studies for the reirradiation setting are pending. The aim of the current project was to evaluate potential clinical benefits and drawbacks of CIRT compared to volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) in recurrent head and neck cancer. Methods: Dose-volume parameters and local failure patterns of CIRT compared to VMAT were evaluate in 16 patients from the randomized CARE trial on head and neck cancer reirradiation. Results: Despite an increased target dose, CIRT resulted in significantly reduced organ at risk (OAR) dose across all patients (−8.7% Dmean). The dose-volume benefits were most pronounced in the brainstem (−20.7% Dmax) and the optic chiasma (−13.0% Dmax). The most frequent local failure was type E (extraneous; 50%), followed type B (peripheral; 33%) and type A (central; 17%). In one patient with type A biological and/or dosimetric failure after CIRT, mMKM dose recalculation revealed reduced target coverage. Conclusions: CIRT resulted in highly improved critical OAR sparing compared to VMAT across all head and neck cancer reirradiation scenarios despite an increased prescription dose. Local failure pattern analysis revealed further potential CIRT specific clinical benefits and potential pitfalls with regard to image-guidance and biological dose-optimization.
Independent-Effect Comparison of Five Crosslinking Procedures for Progressive Keratoconus Based On Keratometry and ABCD Grading System Using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE)
Authors: Liu Yu , Shen Dan , Wang Haoyu , Liang Dengfeng , Zeng Qingyan
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) is a newly treatment for progressive keratoconus. Several CXL modalities were developed clinically. However, few comparative researches about the effectiveness of multiple CXL modalities exist. This study is to compare the 1-year outcomes of five CXL procedures for progressive keratoconus using generalized estimating equations (GEE) to remove the effect of age, baseline data and bilateral surgery in a Chinese population. Methods: This retrospective study included 213 eyes of 154 patients with keratoconus who underwent CXL and were observed for 1 year. Five CXL procedures were assessed, including accelerated transepithelial corneal-crosslinking (ATE CXL), iontophoresis corneal-crosslinking (I-CXL) for 10 min, CXL plus phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK), high-fluence accelerated corneal crosslinking (High-Fluence A-CXL), and accelerated corneal cross-linking (A-CXL). Patients treated with A-CXL represented the reference group. Primary outcomes were the changes of visual acuity, spherical equivalence, endothelial cell density (ECD)，mean keratometry (Kmean), maximum keratometry (Kmax), minimum corneal thickness (MCT), A (staging index for ARC; ARC = anterior radius of curvature), B (staging index for PRC, PRC = posterior radius of curvature), and C (staging index for MCT) value 1-year postoperatively compared with baseline. Secondary outcomes were comparisons of corrected GEE from each procedure versus the A-CXL group.Results: The A-TE CXL group performed worse than A-CXL group with Kmean and Kmax. The CXL-plus-PTK group performed significantly better than the reference group as reflected by Kmax (β = -0.907, P = 0.049). However, the CXL-plus-PTK group performed worse on B and C, which the I-CXL for 10 min group performed better. The corneal capacity of five eyes from three pediatric patients who underwent High-Fluence A-CXL procedure was measured.Conclusions: The CXL-plus-PTK procedure appeared to have better efficacy than the A-CXL procedure based on Kmax, and the I-CXL for 10 min procedure performed better based on the ABCD Grading System. Stronger protection of the cornea should be taken for pediatric patients who undergo the High-Fluence A-CXL procedure.
Professional identity and related factors of general practitioners in Western China: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Deng Jingzhi , Xu Yang , Li Qiaoya , Li Rao , Yang Wen , Tan Wenhao , Yu Yue , Zhou Xingyun , Deng Huisheng
Published: April 2022

Background
The higher professional identity of general practitioners (GPs) helps to promote the establishment of hierarchical diagnosis and treatment in China. However, previous studies focus on the investigation of specialists. As the main provider of residents’ health services, GPs are the basis of primary health care services in China. This study aims to investigate the professional identity of GPs and its influencing factors.
Methods
A cross-sectional online questionnaire survey was conducted from December 2021 to January 2022, and subjects were selected by two-stage stratified random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 2,200 GPs (99.1% response rate) in Chongqing, a municipality in western China. Practicing identity was measured by the Practicing Identity Scale, psychological capital was measured by the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ-24), and patients were measured by the Perceptual Patient Slowness Questionnaire. Through the construction of a multiple linear regression model to analyze correlation, the related factors of GPs’ professional identity are discussed.
Results
The total score of professional identity of GPs was 65, with an average score of 53.59 (SD = 6.42). The scores of self-efficacy, hope, optimism, and resilience in psychological capital were 26.87 ± 5.70, 26.47 ± 5.74, 26.97 ± 5.55, and 26.86 ± 5.59, respectively. The score of perceived patients was 34.19 ± 7.59. Average monthly income, management responsibility, work tenure, self-efficacy, hope, resilience, and patient’s contempt are related to practice identity (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
GPs in Chongqing, a municipality directly under the central government in western China have high professional identity and strong psychology.
RubikONNs: Multi-task Learning with Rubik's Diffractive Optical Neural Networks
Authors: Li Yingjie , Gao Weilu , Yu Cunxi
Published: April 2022

Optical neural networks (ONNs) are emerging as a high-performance machine learning (ML) in terms of power efficiency, parallelism, and computational speed. There are broad interests in leveraging ONNs into medical sensing, security screening, drug detection, and autonomous driving. However, it is challenging to implement reconfigurability for ONNs at specific frequency, e.g., Terehertz (THz), and thus deploying multi-task learning (MTL) algorithms on ONNs requires re-building and duplicating physical diffractive systems, which significantly degrades the energy and cost efficiency in practical application scenarios. This work presents a diffractive ONNs targeting MTL with unreconfigurable components, namely, RubikONNs. This architecture utilizes the physical properties of optical systems to encode multiple feed-forward functions by physically rotating the hardware similarly to rotating a Rubik's Cube. We demonstrate two domain-specific training algorithms RotAgg and RotSeq to optimize MTL performance of RubikONNs. Our analytic results demonstrate more than 4x improvements in energy and cost efficiency with marginal accuracy degradation compared to the state-of-the-art approaches for MTL-ONNs. Moreover, we perform a comprehensive RubikONNs design space analysis and explainability, which offers concrete design methodologies for practical uses.
Pilot Study: Utilization of Telemedicine and Enhanced Recovery after Surgery in Adolescent Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Kang Hae Sung , McHargue Cody , Kraus Samuel , Kang Joshua , Malkawi Dima , Dao Vinh , Thompson Nancy , DeAntonio Jonathan , Oiticica Claudio , Lanning David A.
Published: April 2022

Introduction:
Principles of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) have been successful in improving adult perioperative care. We have previously shown the feasibility of telemedicine in pediatric postoperative care. This study assesses the effectiveness of telemedicine and ERAS (TERAS) to facilitate early discharge while improving perioperative care of adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery (AMBS) patients.
Method
TERAS principles included: minimization of fasting, emphasis on non-narcotic analgesia, minimization of indwelling catheters, aggressive patient mobilization and close interval telemedicine visit. Length of stay (LOS), narcotic use, perioperative complications, ED visits and readmissions were compared between enrolled patients (n = 8) and historic controls (n = 10). Caregiver satisfaction with telemedicine was surveyed.
Results
The study group showed shorter LOS and less narcotic use than the control group with comparable pain control. There was no difference in ED visit, readmission or complication rates. Every caregiver was very satisfied with the telemedicine visit and stated they preferred it over an in-person visit.
Conclusion
Implementation of the TERAS protocol in AMBS may result in shorter LOS and decreased narcotic use. TERAS protocol appears to be feasible and has the potential to be beneficial for AMBS patients.
Validity and Reliability of the “Oral Health Assessment Tool” Applied by Speech-language Therapists in a Population of Older Chilean People
Authors: Morales Camilo , Henríquez Felipe , Muñoz Sergio
Published: April 2022

Background: A good state of oral health allows people to communicate and eat. This topic is relevant in older people given its close relationship with their general health. At present, health challenges are directed at detecting and preventing oral disorders and are seen to exclusively by dentists, because the existing instruments can only be applied by them. However, speech-language therapists undergo similar training, which would allow them to collaborate in these processes. In this context, the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT) is a detection instrument with good psychometric properties that is currently available for non-dental use, and the objective of this study is the translation into Chilean Spanish of the OHAT and validation of that version for application by these professionals. Materials and methods: A mixed qualitative-quantitative study was carried out. The OHAT instrument was adapted to Chilean Spanish and subsequently subject to construct validation and evaluation of internal consistency reliability, as well as a valuation of its reproducibility in 286 older people (138 female, 100 male) from different health contexts. Results: The cultural adaptation of the instrument proved to be semantically consistent with the original instrument. Its application was considered to be speedy and simple in the pre-test. The minimum rank factor analysis evidenced the unidimensionality of the OHAT, explaining 64.4% of the common variance. In addition, the instrument shows good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Conclusions: The OHAT instrument was considered to possess adequate validity and test-retest reliability properties. Its usefulness in the context of oral health disorders of this population in Chile is discussed.
Lepidium meyenii Walp (red maca) supplementation prevents acrylamide-induced oxidative stress and liver toxicity in rats: Phytochemical composition by UHPLC–Q/Orbitrap/MS/MS
Authors: Ybañez-Julca Roberto O. , Palacios Javier , Asunción-Alvarez Daniel , Quispe-Diaz Ivan , Nwokocha Chukwuemeka R. , de Albuquerque Ricardo Diego Duarte Galhardo
Published: April 2022

Lepidium meyenii Walp (red maca) is a high Andean plant cultivated since the time of the Incas, and has innumerable therapeutic properties. The study aims to identify its phytochemical composition using UHPLC–Q/Orbitrap/MS/MS, and to evaluate its effects on acrylamide-induced oxidative stress. The lyophilized aqueous extract of red maca (LAqE-RM) was orally administered in doses of 1 and 2 g/kg body weight for 4 weeks. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in erythrocytes, brain and liver, as well as hepatic levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were determined. Administration of acrylamide for 2 weeks and 4 weeks significantly increased (p <0.001) MDA levels in erythrocytes, brain, and liver. However, LAqE-RM was able to prevent (p <0.001) an increase in MDA levels in all tissues studied. Likewise, the groups treated with LAqE-RM presented significantly (p <0.001) lower levels of ALT and AST compared to the control. Treatment with LAqE-RM ameliorated the acrylamide-induced oxidative stress by reducing MDA levels in erythrocytes, brain, and liver, and by reducing liver levels of ALT and AST in a dose dependent manner. Twenty-five secondary metabolites were identified and characterized from LAqE-RM based on UHPLC mass spectrophotometry, these include; carbolines, alkamides, fatty acids and macamides, which are probably involved in their antioxidant protective role.
Mehar approach to solve neutrosophic linear programming problems using possibilistic mean
Authors: Bhatia Tanveen Kaur , Kumar Amit , Sharma M K , Appadoo S S
Published: April 2022

Khatter (Soft Computing 24 (2020) 16847–16867) pointed out that although several approaches are proposed in the literature to solve single-valued neutrosophic linear programming problems (SVNLPPS) (linear programming problems in which all the parameters except decision variables are either represented by single-valued triangular neutrosophic numbers (SVTNNS) or single-valued trapezoidal neutrosophic numbers (SVTrNNS)). However, all the methods for comparing single-valued neutrosophic numbers (SVNNS), used in existing approaches, are independent from the attitude of the decision maker towards the risk. To fill this gap, Khatter (2020), firstly, proposed a method for comparing two SVNNS by considering the attitude of the decision maker towards the risk. Then, using the proposed comparing method, Khatter (2020) proposed an approach to solve SVNLPPS. In this paper, it is pointed out that a mathematical incorrect result is considered in Khatter’s approach. Hence, it is inappropriate to use Khatter’s approach. Also, it is pointed out that some mathematical incorrect results are considered in other existing approaches for solving SVNLPPS. Hence, it is inappropriate to use other existing approaches for solving SVNLPPS. Furthermore, to resolve the inappropriateness of Khatter’s approach and other existing approaches, a new approach (named as Mehar approach) is proposed to solve SVNLPPS. Finally, correct optimal solution of some existing SVNLPPS is obtained by the proposed Mehar approach.
Adaptive posture-balance cardiac rehabilitation exercise significantly improved physical tolerance in patients with cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Li Ting , Ma Mei , Zhang bowen , Yan Xinxin , Qin Deyu , Pu Chaodong , Zhao Jingxiang , Zhang Qian , Lowis Heinz , Ji Xiang
Published: April 2022

Background: This study aimed to assess the effect of a self-created therapy with adaptive posture-balance cardiac rehabilitation exercise (APBCRE) on physical tolerance in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), in terms of the measurements from the exercise cardiopulmonary function measurement system.Methods: The CVDs patients were selected into this study, in which every subject was guided to take an APBCRE evenly twelve times per month. At baseline and after one-month APBCRE, participants underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) measurements, resting metabolic rate (RMR), and filled in questionnaires about quality of life (QoL). The results of CPET and QoL at multiple time points were statistically analyzed to evaluate the clinical therapeutic effects of one-month APBCRE. The factor of age was addressed in data analysis as well.Results: 93 samples (80.65% male, 53.03±12.02 years) were included into the analysis. After one-month APBCRE, oxygen update (VO2, 11.16±2.91 to 12.85±3.17 mL/min/kg, p<0.01), ventilation (VE, 28.87±7.26 to 32.42±8.50 mL/min/kg, p<0.01), respiratory exchange ratio (RER, 0.93±0.06 to 0.95±0.05, p<0.01) in anaerobic threshold and oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) (1426.75±346.30 to 1547.19±403.49, P<0.01) of the participants improved significantly. Moreover, compared with the >55-year group, the ≤55-year group acted much higher increment (VO2 at anaerobic threshold, 23% vs. 16%; OUES, 13% vs. 6%). The quality of life score (SF-12) was also improved with rehabilitation (47.78±16.74 to 59.27±17.77, p<0.001). Conclusions: This study proved that APBCRE was a potentially available exercise rehabilitation modality for patients with cardiovascular diseases, which significantly improved physical tolerance and quality of life, more effectively for ≤55-year patients.
Rapid characterization of a Delta-Omicron SARS-CoV-2 recombinant detected in Europe
Authors: SIMON-LORIERE Etienne , Montagutelli Xavier , Lemoine Frederic , Donati Flora , Touret Franck , Bourret Jerome , Prot Matthieu , Munier Sandie , Attia Mikael , Conquet Laurine , Nguyen Scott , amara faustine , Maisa Anna , Fournier Lucie , Brisbarre Angela , dehan oceane , Levillayer Laurine , Gunalan Vithiagaran ,   The Danish COVID-19 Genome Consortium (DCGC), Fonager Jannik , Rasmussen Morten , Kemeny Stephan , Zrhidri Abdelali , Duret Thomas , Behillil Sylvie , Enouf Vincent , Rodriguez Christophe , Fourati Slim , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Capron Nicolas , Leroy Hugues , Alessandri-Gradt Elodie , Juszczak Florian , Gheysen Laetitia , Brodard Véronique , Moret Hélène , Bos Martine , Welkers Matthijs , Scholz Claus , Paraskevopoulou Sofia , Josset Laurence , Cervi Claire , Couzon Brigitte , Marque-Juillet Stéphanie , Delaune Deborah , Khiari Slim El , Fumey Julien , Hallouin-Bernard Marie-Charlotte , Rey Félix , Yazdanpanah Yazdan , Coignard Bruno , de Lamballerie Xavier , Werf Sylvie van der , Paquin Axelle
Published: April 2022

Recombination is a crucial process in the evolution of many organisms. Although the evolutionary reasons behind its occurrence in RNA viruses are debated, this phenomenon has been associated with major epidemiological events such as virus host range expansion, antigenic shift or variation in virulence 1,2, and this process occurs frequently in positive strand RNA viruses such as coronaviruses. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has been associated with the repeated emergence of variants of concern presenting increased transmissibility, severity or immune escape 3. The recent extensive circulation of Delta worldwide and its subsequent replacement by viruses of the Omicron lineage 4 (BA.1 then BA.2), have created conditions for genetic exchanges between viruses with both genetic diversity and phenotypic specificities 5-7. Here we report the identification and in vitro and in vivo characterization of a Delta-Omicron recombinant in Europe. This recombinant exhibits immune escape properties similar to Omicron, while its behavior in mice expressing the human ACE2 receptor is more similar to Delta. This recombinant provides a unique and natural opportunity to better understand the genotype to phenotype links in SARS-CoV-2.
C/EBP-β LAP regulates chemo-immuno-resistance in hypoxic non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Salaroglio Iris C. , Belisario Dimas Carolina , Akman Muhlis , Vecchia Sofia La , Godel Martina , Anobile Dario Pasquale , Ortone Giacomo , Digiovanni Sabrina , Fontana Simona , Costamagna Costanzo , Kopecka Joanna , Riganti Chiara
Published: April 2022

Background: Solid tumors subjected to intermittent hypoxia are characterized by resistance to chemotherapy and immune-killing by effector T-lymphocytes, particularly tumor-infiltrating Vγ9Vδ2 T-lymphocytes. The molecular circuitries determining this double resistance are not known. Methods: We analyzed a panel of 28 human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) lines, using an in vitro system simulating continuous and intermittent hypoxia to. Chemosensitivity to cisplatin and docetaxel was evaluated by chemiluminescence, ex vivo Vγ9Vδ2 T-lymphocyte expansion and immune-killing by flow cytometry. Targeted transcriptomic identified efflux transporters and nuclear factors involved in chemo-immuno-resistance. The molecular mechanism linking Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein-β (C/EBP-β) isoforms LAP and LIP, and ABCB1, ABCC1, ABCA1 transporters were evaluated by immunoblotting, RT-PCR, RNA-IP, ChIP. Oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial ATP, ROS and depolarization were measured spectrofluorimetrically. The role of ROS/HIF-1α/LAP axis was validated in HIF-1α/LAP knocked-out/overexpressing cells, and in humanized (Hu-CD34+NSG) mice bearing LAP-overexpressing tumors. The clinical meaning of LAP was assessed in 60 NSCLC patients prospectively enrolled, treated with chemotherapy.Results: By up-regulating ABCB1 and ABCC1, and down-regulating ABCA1, intermittent hypoxia induced a stronger chemo-immuno-resistance than continuous hypoxia in NSCLC cells. Intermittent hypoxia impaired the electron transport chain, increasing mitochondrial ROS that favor the stabilization of C/EBP-β mRNA mediated by HIF-1α. HIF-1α/C/EBP-β mRNA binding increases the production of LAP isoform that transcriptionally induces ABCB1 and ABCC1, promoting the efflux of cisplatin and docetaxel. LAP also decreases ABCA1, limiting the efflux of isopentenyl pyrophosphate, i.e. the endogenous activator of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells, and reducing the immune-killing. In NSCLC patients subjected to cisplatin-based chemotherapy, C/EBP-β LAP was abundant in hypoxic tumors and was associated with lower response to treatment and survival. Accordingly, in Hu-CD34+NSG mice, LAP-overexpressing tumors were more chemo-immuno-resistant than parental tumors. Interestingly, the ROS scavenger mitoquinol re-induced chemo-immuno-sensitization, by disrupting the ROS/HIF-1α/LAP cascade. Conclusion: The impairment of mitochondrial metabolism induced by intermittent hypoxia increases the ROS-dependent stabilization of HIF-1α/LAP complex in NSCLC, producing chemo-immuno-resistance. Clinically used mitochondrial ROS scavengers may counteract such double resistance. Moreover, we suggest C/EBP-β LAP as a new predictive and prognostic factor in NSCLC patients.
ATP-Binding Cassette Cholesterol Transporter–1 (ABC1) G1051A, and G2706A Gene Polymorphism in patients with primary hyperlipidemi
Authors: Karadeniz Muammer , Ozgen Ahmet Gokhan , Vardarlı Asli Tetik , Cetintas Vildan Bozok , Eroglu Zuhal , Erdogan Mehmet
Published: April 2022

Objective: we aimed to investigate the effects of ABCA1 G2706A and G1051A gene polymorphisms on glycemic levels, and inflammatory markers as hs-CRP, and fibrinogen in patients with primary hyperlipidemia.Material, and Method:Sixty male and 78 female patients participated in the study. DNAs of white blood cells were isolated, and ABCA1 G2706A, and G1051A gene polymorphisms were analyzed using PCR. Results: Among patients included in the study, systolic blood pressures of the patients carrying AA genotype in ABCA-1 2706 gene polymorphism were lower relative to those having AG, and GG genotypes. (p=0.027). Statistical analysis performed between ABCA1 G1051A (R219K) gene polymorphism, and HDL-cholesterol levels revealed that HDL-cholesterol level was statistically significantly higher in patients with GG genotype when compared with those having AA, and AG genotypes (p=0.047). The presence of metabolic syndrome did not differ statistically significantly among patients carrying ABCA1 G2706A polymorphism. [GA genotype vs GG genotype (p=0.321, OR: 0.364), AA genotype vs GG genotype (p=0.438, OR: 0.534)]. Incidence of metabolic syndrome in ABCA1 gene G1051A polymorphism in patients carrying GG genotype was significantly more frequently detected in those having GA (p=0.001, OR: 5.816) or AA (p=0.039, OR: 3.619) genotype. On the other hand, the individuals with AA genotype had lower systolic blood pressures.Conclusion: ABCA1 gene polymorphism has been seen to be correlated with hypertension, and metabolic syndrome apart from HDL-cholesterol metabolism
BGM, a newly synthesized boron compound, induces apoptosis and reduces oxidative stress by inhibiting lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes via PPARγ and CTRP3
Authors: KOLDEMİR-GÜNDÜZ Meliha
Published: April 2022

Obesity is a chronic disease associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The rapidly increasing prevalence of obesity makes it a global health problem, while treatment options remain limited. Given the potential of boron in the treatment of obesity, the aim of this study is to investigate the anti-adipogenic activity of the newly synthesized boron glycine monoester compound (BGM) using 3T3-L1 adipocytes by analysing lipid accumulation, CTRP3 and PPARy gene expression, oxidative stress and apoptotic effects. 3T3-L1 fibroblast cells (ATCC® CL − 173) were transformed into adipocyte cells in vitro. Fat accumulation in the 3T3-L1 adipocyte cells was detected by oil red O staining. Gene expression levels were determined with qPCR. Biochemical analyzes were performed using spectrophotometric method (CAT, ALP and ACP) and ELISA kit (TAS, TOS, NADP-IDH). Apoptosis studies were performed on the Muse Cell Analyzer using the Muse Annexin V & Dead Cell Assay Kit. When BGM-treated cells were compared to control adipocyte cells, lipid accumulation decreased in a dose-dependent manner. BGM-treated adipocyte cells had higher CTRP3 expression levels and lower PPAR-γ gene expression levels compared to control adipocyte cells (p < 0.001). While BGM application increased the TAS level, it showed an antioxidant effect by regulating the activity of oxidative metabolism enzymes (p < 0.001). BGM application increased total apoptosis by 1.5 fold. These results show that BGM is a potential therapeutic agent for obesity by regulating the expression of genes related to adipogenesis and lipogenesis in adipocyte cells and by affecting the activity of enzymes of oxidative metabolism and apoptosis.
Pneumonia Due to Mixed Infection From Atopobium Vaginae and Gardnerella Vaginalis Detected by Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing: A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wenying Xia , Suming Zhou , Yi Han
Published: April 2022

Background
Atopobium vaginae and Gardnerella vaginalis are commensal vaginal bacteria. They are common pathogens of bacterial vaginosis and rarely cause pneumonia.
Methods
We report a case of a 27-year-old female with severe pneumonia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and hyperthyroidism. Notably, a mixed infection from A. vaginae and G. vaginalis was confirmed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS).
Results
The mNGS of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid showed a total of 10,548 reads of A. vaginae, with a genome coverage rate of 26.63% and 5,237 reads of G. vaginalis, with a genome coverage rate of 34.76%. The patient recovered after ceftriaxone and ornidazole treatments.
Conclusion
This case demonstrated the advantage of mNGS in detecting unusual pathogens in pneumonia. Our diagnostic and treatment approaches could provide a reference for the future management of pneumonia due to a mixed infection from A. vaginae and G. vaginalis.
Environmental extremes at high altitudes drive clutch size patterns in a wide-ranging lizard
Authors: Deme Gideon Gywa , Wu Nicholas C. , Sun Baojun , Hao Xin
Published: April 2022

Latitudinal patterns in reproductive output such as clutch size are linked to resource abundance and seasonal climate variation across taxa. Understanding if these patterns hold across local altitudinal gradients and within species can provide insight into key drivers of life-history evolution across scales. In this study, we examined geographical variations in clutch size and climate conditions in a wide-ranging lizard. We collected clutch data from ten populations of E. argus of varying elevation in China from both field observation and from the literature. A total of 369 clutches were obtained and generalized linear mixed-effects models were used to test the relationship between clutch size with body mass, habitat type, elevation, and climate conditions. Body mass strongly correlated with clutch size across all populations. Females from populations at high altitudes with low mean annual temperature and variability, and drier conditions had smaller clutches, while females at lower altitudes with higher mean temperatures and rainfall had larger clutch sizes. Poor climate conditions at high altitudes suggest fewer resources for females to invest in larger clutch sizes, likely due to reduced foraging and activity times, and growth under unfavourable conditions. These constraints match macroecological patterns of clutch size diversity in egg-laying taxa, suggesting local climate constraints can translate across scales to explain the diversity of reproductive output.
Families of exact solutions of a Generalized (2+1)-dimensional Boussinesq type equation
Authors: Li Mao-Hua , Chen Cai-Feng
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we study a Generalized (2+1)-dimensional Boussinesq type equation. Through the Hirota bilinear method, we give the $N$-order bright soliton solutions and dark soliton solutions. For the one-soliton solution, the bright soliton solution and the dark soliton solution have the same limit line and different extreme values. Based on soliton solutions, we give higher-order bright and dark breather solutions and mixed solutions. The dynamic behavior is characterized by images. Through the long-wave limit method, we obtain the bright and dark lump solution. It is worth noting that they have the same extreme points and different extreme values. In addition, we also get two semi-rational solutions as lump-soliton and lump-breather. It is found that the collision between lump and soliton is elastic.