bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediation effect of body mass index on the association between spicy food intake and hyperuricemia in rural Chinese adults: the Henan Rural Cohort Study
Authors: Dong Xiaokang , Li Yuqian , Yang Kaili , Zhang Lulu , Xue Yuan , Yu Songcheng , Liu Xiaotian , Tu Runqi , Qiao Dou , Luo Zhicheng , Liu Xue , Wang Yan , Li Wenjie , Zheng Zhaohui , Wang Chongjian
Published: October 2020

Background: The relationship of spicy food intake with hyperuricemia remains unknown. The objective of this study was to examine the association between spicy food intake and hyperuricemia, and whether this association was mediated by body mass index (BMI) in Chinese rural population.Methods: 38, 027 adults aged 18–79 years were recruited from the Henan Rural Cohort Study. Information on spicy food intake was obtained using a validated questionnaire survey. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to estimate the association between spicy food intake and hyperuricemia, multiple linear regression model was performed to estimate the relationships between spicy food intake, BMI and serum urate level. BMI was used as a mediator to evaluate the mediation effect.Results: After adjusting for potential confounders, compared with no spicy food flavor, the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of mild, middle, and heavy flavor for hyperuricemia were 1.09 (1.00-1.19), 1.10 (0.97-1.24), and 1.21 (1.10-1.46), respectively (Ptrend=0.017). Similarly, compared with those without intake in spicy food, the multivariable adjusted OR (95% CI) of 1-2days/week, 3-5 days/week, and 6-7 days/week were 1.15 (1.01-1.31), 1.14 (1.01-1.30) and 1.15 (1.05-1.26), respectively (Ptrend=0.007). However, when we further controlling for BMI, the associations were substantially attenuated. Furthermore, mediation analysis showed that BMI play a full mediating role in the relationship of spicy food intake with hyperuricemia.﻿Conclusion: Spicy food flavor and intake frequency are positively related with hyperuricemia in Chinese rural population. BMI may play a full mediating role in the relationship.
Can Computed Tomography-Based Radiomics Potentially Discriminate Between Anterior Mediastinal Cysts and type B1 and B2 thymomas?
Authors: Liu Lulu , Lu Fangxiao , Pang Peipei , Shao Guoliang
Published: October 2020

Background: Anterior mediastinal cysts (AMC) are often misdiagnosed as thymomas and undergo surgical resection, which caused unnecessary treatment and medical resources waste. The purpose of this study is to explore potential possibility of computed tomography (CT)-based radiomics for the diagnosis of AMC and type B1 and B2 thymomas.Methods: A group of 188 patients with pathologically confirmed AMC (106 cases misdiagnosed as thymomas in CT) and thymomas (82 cases) and underwent routine chest CT from January 2010 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The lesions were manually delineated using ITK-SNAP software, and radiomics features were performed using the Artificial Intelligence Kit (AK) software. A total of 396 tumor texture features were extracted from enhanced CT and unenhanced CT, respectively. The general test, correlation analysis and LASSO were used to features selection and then the radiomics signature (radscore) were obtained. The combined model including radscore and independent clinical factors were developed. The model performances were evaluated on discrimination, calibration curve.Results: Two radscore model were constructed from the unenhanced and enhanced phases based on the selected 4 and 3 features, respectively. The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of the enhanced radscore model were 0.928, 89.3% and 83.8% in the training dataset and 0.899, 84.6%, 87.5% in the test dataset (higher than the unenhanced radscore model). The combined model of enhanced CT including radiomics features and independent clinical factors yielded an AUC, sensitivity and specificity of 0.941, 82.1%, and 94.6% in the training dataset and 0.938, 92.3%, and 87.5% in the test dataset (higher than the unenhanced combined model and enhanced radscore model). Conclusions: The study suggested the possibility that the combined model in enhanced CT provided a potential tool to facilitate the differential diagnosis of AMC and type B1 and B2 thymomas.
Imaging analysis of 13 rare cases of renal collecting (Bellini) duct carcinoma patients in northern China: a case series and literature review.
Authors: Lyu Zhehao , Liu Lili , Li Huimin , Wang Haibo , Liu Qi , Chen Tingting , Xu Meiling , Tian Lin , Fu Peng
Published: October 2020

Background: Collective duct carcinoma (CDC) is a highly malignant kidney tumor which is rare in clinical. We report our 12-year experience of Collecting (Bellini) duct carcinoma (CDC) and retrospectively analyzed patients and tumour characteristics, clinical manifestations, different imaging characteristics including CT, MRI and PET/CT. Methods: From January 2007 to December 2019, we retrospectively examined all renal tumors and identifed 13 cases of CDC from 3 medical centers in the northern China. All 13 patients underwent CT scan, 8 of whom underwent dynamic enhanced CT scan, 2 underwent PET/CT scan and 1 underwent MRCP examination. The lesions were divided into nephritis type and mass type according to the morphology of the tumors.Results: The study group included 10 men and 3 women, with an average age of 64.23±10.74 years old. Of these 13 patients, the main clinical manifestations include gross hematuria, flank pain or waist discomfort. The mean tumour size was 8.48 ± 2.48 cm. In this group of cases, 6 (46.2%) cases are cortical-medullary involved type, 7 (53.8%) cases are cortex-medullary-pelvis involved type. 11 (84.6%) cases were nephritis type and 2 (15.4%) cases were mass type. The lesions appeared solid or complex solid and cystic on CT and MRI. The parenchymal part of 13 CDC tumors showed isodensity or slightly higher density on unenhanced CT scan. Two patients with PET/CT showed increased radioactivity intake. Evidence of intra-abdominal metastatic disease was present on CT in 9 ( 69.2% ) cases.Conclusions: The Collecting (Bellini) duct carcinoma has its certain imaging characteristics which were different from the other renal cell carcinoma. A renal tumor should be considered as CDC when it locates in the junction zone of the renal cortex and medulla, with unclear border, slight enhancement and metastases in early stage. PET/CT can greatly enrich the key information of diagnosis, surgery and treatment options, which provide significant help to the clinic.
Metabolomics coupled with integrated approaches reveals the therapeutic effect of higenamine combined with [6] -gingerol on doxorubicin-induced chronic heart failure in rats
Authors: Wen Jianxia , Ma Xiao , Niu Ming , Hao Junjie , Huang Ying , Wang Ruilin , Li Ruisheng , Wang Jian , Zhao Yanling
Published: October 2020

Background: This study was aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and potential mechanism of higenamine combined with [6]-gingerol (HG/[6]-GR) against doxorubicin (DOX) - induced chronic heart failure (CHF) in rats.Materials and methods: Therapeutic effects of HG/[6]-GR on hemodynamics indices, serum biochemical indicators, histopathology and TUNEL staining of rats were assessed. Moreover, a UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS-based serum metabolic approach was performed to identify the metabolites and possible pathways of HG/[6]-GR on DOX-induced CHF. Results: HG/[6]-GR had effects on promoting of hemodynamic indices, alleviating serum biochemical indicators, improving the pathological characteristics of heart tissue and reducing the apoptosis of myocardial cells. Serum metabolisms analyses indicated that the therapeutic effects of HG and [6]-GR were mainly associated with the regulation of eight metabolites, including acetylphosphate, 3-Carboxy-1-hydroxypropylthiamine diphosphate, coenzyme A, palmitic acid, PE(O-18:1(1Z)/20:4(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)), oleic acid, lysoPC(18:1(9Z)), and PC(16:0/16:0). Pathway analysis showed that the treatment of HG/[6]-GR on CHF treatment was related to twelve pathways, including glycerophospholipid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, citrate cycle (TCA cycle), pyruvate metabolism, and arachidonic acid metabolism. Serum metabolites and metabolic pathways regulated by HG/[6]-GR appear to be related to energy metabolism.Conclusion: Multivariate statistical analysis has provided new insights for understanding CHF and investigating the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of HG/[6]-GR, which influencing the metabolites and pathways related to energy metabolism pathway.
Strengthening Retina Eye Care Services in Nepal: Retina Eye Care of Nepal project
Authors: Shrestha Arjun , Shrestha Chunu , Karki Pratap , Gurung Hara Maya , Naito Takeshi
Published: October 2020

Background: Retinal diseases are very difficult to treat. So, early diagnoses and preventions are very important. But, few eye doctors can treat patients with retinal diseases in Nepal. Retina Eye Care of Nepal (RECON) project was designed to strengthen retina eye care services in Nepal.Methods: RECON was implemented from May 2016 to February 2019 in Nepal. Four Master Eye Doctors (MED) received Training of Trainers (TOT) from Tokushima University, Japan. MEDs developed training materials for different cadres of ophthalmic human resources, enhanced retina eye care facilities, and conducted retina-screening camp in Nepal. Results: Twenty ophthalmologists, 16 optometrists, 48 ophthalmic assistants and 17 ophthalmic nurses, 76 physicians and 28 health workers were trained in retina care. Eight outreach retina camps were conducted.Conclusions: The project was a novel approach to strengthen retina services in Nepal. The aim of the project was accomplished with the ultimate benefits to the needy retina patients who otherwise were going to miss the retina services.
Relationship between social support status and mortality in a community-based population: a prospective observational study (Yamagata study)
Authors: Uzuki Tsutomu , Konta Tsuneo , Saito Ritsuko , Sho Ri , Osaki Tsukasa , Souri Masayoshi , Watanabe Masafumi , Ishizawa Kenichi , Yamashita Hidetoshi , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Kayama Takamasa
Published: October 2020

Background: Social support, defined as the exchange of support in social relationships, plays a vital role in maintaining healthy behavior and mitigating the effects of stressors. This study investigated whether functional aspect of social support is related to 5-year mortality in health checkup participants.Methods: This study recruited 16,651 subjects (6,797 males, 9,854 females). Social support was evaluated using five-component questions: Do you have someone 1) whom you can consult when you are in trouble? 2) whom you can consult when your physical condition is not good? 3) who can help you with daily homework? 4) who can take you to hospital when you don't feel well? and 5) who can take care of you when you are ill in bed? The association between the component of social support and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was examined using Cox proportional hazard analysis.Results: The percentage of subjects without social support components was 7.7%-15.0%. They were more likely to be male, non-elderly, and living alone. During the follow-up period, there were 166 all-cause and 38 cardiovascular deaths. Cox proportional analysis adjusted for confounders showed that only the lack of support for transportation to hospital was significantly associated with all-cause (hazard ratio [HR] 2.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-3.05) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 3.30, 95% CI 1.41-6.87). These associations were stronger in males than females.Conclusion: This study showed that the lack of social support for transportation to the hospital was independently associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in a community-based population.
Silencing of KNTC1 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma cells progression via suppressing PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Tong Hui , Xie Junjie , Liu Xiaohui , Peng Chenghong , Shen Baiyong , Zhu Zhecheng
Published: October 2020

Background: Kinetochore associated 1 (KNTC1) encodes a kinetochore component in Rod-Zwilch-ZW10 (RZZ) complex which is essential for the segregation of sister chromatids during mitosis and participates in the spindle checkpoint. Recent research demonstrated that kinetochore proteins may be potential biomarkers and may contribute to the development of human malignancies. Here, we sought to identify the biological significances of KNTC1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Methods: KNTC1 expression was studied in HCC tissues by immunohistochemistry. Lentivirus delivered short hairpin RNA (shRNA) was performed to generate KNTC1 knockdown HCC cell lines. The effects of KNTC1 on HCC cells proliferation, migration, apoptosis and tumor formation was analyzed by MTT assay, colony formation assay, wound-healing assay, transwell migration assay, annexin V assay in vitro and in nude mouse models in vivo.Results: Our immunohistochemistry experiment showed that KNTC1 was highly expressed in HCC tissues and correlated with terrible prognosis, indicating that KNTC1 acts a pivotal role in HCC development. Furthermore, shRNA KNTC1 (Lv‑shKNTC1) was applied to infect BEL-7404 and SK-HEP-1 to identify roles of KNTC1 on HCC. Lv‑shKNTC1 cells showed reduced proliferation ability, increased apoptosis and decreased migration ability. In vivo experiments suggested that xenografts grow significantly slower upon the silencing of KNTC1. Mechanistically, the protein levels of PIK3CA, p-Akt, CCND1, CDK6 are all down-regulated in Lv-KNTC1 SK-HEP-1 cells. Therefore, KNTC1 may affect the biological activity of HCC cells through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.Conclusions: In summary, the key finding of this report highlighted the significance of KNTC1 in tumor regression of HCC, demonstrating KNTC1 as an innovative target for adjuvant treatment of HCC.
Imaging biomarkers of contrast-enhanced computed tomography predict survival in oesophageal cancer after definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Zeng Chengbing , Zhai Tiantian , Chen Jianzhou , Guo Longjia , Huang Baotian , Guo Hong , Liu Guozhi , Zhuang Tingting , Liu Weitong , Luo Ting , Wu Yanxuan , Peng Guobo , Li Derui , Chen Chuangzhen
Published: October 2020

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the predictive potential of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT)-based imaging biomarkers (IBMs) for the treatment outcomes of patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) after definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT).Methods: Altogether, 154 patients with OSCC who underwent definitive CCRT were included in this retrospective study. All patients were randomised to the training cohort (n=99) or the validation cohort (n=55). Pre-treatment contrast-enhanced CT scans were obtained for all patients and used for the extraction of IBMs. An IBM score, was constructed by using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator with Cox regression analysis, which was equal to the log-partial hazard of the Cox model in the training cohort and tested in the validation cohort. IBM nomograms were built based on IBM scores for individualised survival estimation. Finally, a decision curve analysis was performed to estimate the clinical usefulness of the nomograms.Results: Altogether, 96 IBMs were extracted from each contrast-enhanced CT scan. IBM scores were constructed from 11 CT-based IBMs for overall survival (OS) and 8 IBMs for progression-free survival (PFS), using the LASSO-Cox regression method in the training cohort. Multivariate analysis revealed that IBM score was an independent prognostic factor correlated with OS and PFS. In the training cohort, the C-indices of IBM scores were 0.734 (95%CI, 0.664–0.804) and 0.658 (95%CI, 0.587–0.729) for OS and PFS, respectively. In the validation cohort, C-indices were 0.672 (95%CI, 0.578–0.766) and 0.666 (95%CI, 0.574–0.758) for OS and PFS, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a significant difference between risk subgroups in the training and validation cohorts. Decision curve analysis confirmed the clinical usefulness of the IBM score.Conclusions: The IBM score based on pre-treatment contrast-enhanced CT could predict the OS and PFS for patients with OSCC after definitive CCRT. Further multicentre studies with larger sample sizes are warranted.
Epidemiological scenario of leprosy in a province in China: long delay in diagnosis and high rate of deformity.
Authors: Zhang Qing-Ping , Li Ge , Li Chao , Lin Zhao-Xing , Chen Ping
Published: October 2020

Background: This epidemiological study aimed to analyze both the distribution and the characteristics of leprosy in an endemic province in the Chinese Northwest. Methods: The medical records of leprosy in the province of Shaanxi, China, 1998-2018 were collected from the leprosy management information system in China (LEPMIS). Epidemiological variables were analyzed in this study. Results: 477 new cases were diagnosed between 1998-2018 in this area. The average rate of annual detection was 0.070/100,000 population, and the average annual prevalence was 0.305/100,000 population. The mean age of new patients was 46.7 years, and the ratio of male to female was 2.5:1. There were 399 cases (83.6%) of multibacillary (MB) forms. 148 cases (31.0%) had grade 2 disability. The mean delay in diagnosis for new cases was 62.0 months. Conclusion: The epidemiological study showed that the characteristics of the new leprosy cases in our province were still long delay in diagnosis and high rate of deformity, which indicated the need of actions of stimulating early diagnosis and treatment, and strengthening the detection of leprosy in low prevalent areas.
Patient-reported impact of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease: protocol for a real-world digital lifestyle study
Authors: Thomas Florian P , Saporta Mario , Attarian Shahram , Sevilla Teresa , Mascaró Rafael Sivera , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Genovese Filippo , Gray Amy , Bull Simon , Tanesse Daniel , Rego Manuel , Moore Allison , Hollett Courtney , Monteiro Katia , Paoli Xavier , Llewellyn Samuel , Larkin Mark , Boutalbi Youcef
Published: October 2020

Background
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a rare, chronic, progressive motor and sensory neuropathy that affects the peripheral nervous system, leading to progressive, predominantly distal muscle weakness, atrophy, sensory loss and progressive limb dysfunction. As with many rare diseases, there is a lack of patient-reported data with which to understand and address patient needs. This study aims to explore the real-world impact of CMT from the patient perspective.
Methods
This is a prospective, digital lifestyle study of at least 2,000 people with CMT, >18 years, resident in the following countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and the USA. Participants will be recruited using community-based methods, via patient advocacy groups, social media, and word of mouth. Participants will use a smartphone application (CMT&Me) to check eligibility, provide consent, and contribute data. The dataset will include: 1) personal profile on enrolment – demographics, lifestyle characteristics, diagnosis, and current and previous treatments; 2) a selection of validated generic and disease-specific patient-reported outcome instruments: EuroQol 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L), Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS™) Pain Intensity 3a, Pain Interference 6b and Sleep Disturbance 8a, Work Limitations Questionnaire (WLQ), Falls Efficacy Scale – International (FES-I), Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS), and Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder & Hand (QuickDASH). Descriptive data analysis will be conducted upon registration of the 1,000th participant and at 12-monthly intervals from study launch.
Conclusions
This digital, patient-reported study is designed to help researchers and clinicians understand the real-world impact of CMT and the unmet needs of patients.
Important Aedes Spp. Density Levels in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Francis Wat’senga Tezzo , Sylvie Fasine , Zola Manzambi Emile , Carmen Marquetti Maria del , Guillaume Binene Mbuka , Gillon Ilombe , Richard Mundeke Takasongo , Nathalie Smitz , Andre Bisset Juan , Wim Van Bortel , Vanlerberghe Veerle
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika are among the most important emerging infectious vector-borne diseases worldwide. Besides sporadic dengue cases, yellow fever and chikungunya outbreaks have been increasingly reported in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the last decade. The main vectors of these arboviruses, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, were reported in DRC, but there is a lack of detailed information on their presence and spread hampering transmission risk assessments in the region. METHODS: In 2018, two cross-sectional surveys were realized in Kinshasa province (DRC), one in the rainy (January/February) and one in the dry season (July). Four hundred houses were visited in each of the four selected communes (N’Djili, Mont Ngafula, Lingwala and Kalamu). Breedings sites were recorded, larvae and pupae collected and reared to obtain adults for genus and species identification. A subset of specimens was DNA-barcoded for validation of the morphological species identification. RESULTS: The most rural commune (Mont Ngafula) had the highest density levels, with a Breteau Index of 82.2 and 19.5/100 houses in rainy and dry season, respectively. The Breteau Index in the other communes Kalamu, Lingwala and N’Djili elevated to 21.5 (4.7), 36.7 (9.8) and 41.7 (7.5) in the rainy (and dry) season. The House index was on average 27.5% and 7.6%; and the Container Index 15.0% and 10.0% in rainy and dry season, respectively. The vast majority of Aedes positive containers was found outside the houses (adjusted OR 27.4 (95%CI 14.9-50.1)). The main breeding sites were used tires, water storage containers and trash. Anopheles larvae were also found in Aedes breeding sites, especially during the rainy season.CONCLUSIONS: These results show that Kinshasa is highly infested with Aedes spp. which indicates a high potential for arbovirus transmission in the area. During the dry season, the most productive containers (for Aedes pupae production) are containers used for water storage, whereas in the rainy season this is trash and tires. The present study also evidences that Aedes breeding sites are mainly located outdoors. Based on the results of this study, a contextualized Aedes control strategy can be designed for Kinshasa.
Mitigating Implicit Bias in Patient-Clinician Communication in Clinical Encounters: Protocol from the COmmuNity-engaged SimULation Training (CONSULT) Trial
Authors: Tjia Jennifer , Pugnaire Michele , Calista Joanne , Esparza Nancy , Valdman Olga , Garcia Maria , Yazdani Majid , Hale Janet , Terrien Jill , Eisdorfer Ethan , Zolezzi-Wyndham Valerie , Chiriboga Germán , Puerto Geraldine , Dykhouse Elizabeth , Potts Stacy , Sifuentes Andriana Foiles , Stanhope Sylvia , Allison Jeroan , Duodu Vennesa , Sabin Janice
Published: October 2020

Background : Healthcare professionals have negative implicit biases toward minority and poor patients. Few communication skills interventions target implicit bias as a factor contributing to disparities in health outcomes. We report the protocol from the COmmuNity-engaged SimULation Training for Blood Pressure Control (CONSULT-BP), a trial evaluating a novel intervention targeting graduate medical and nursing trainees designed to mitigate the effects of implicit bias in clinical encounters. The CONSULT-BP intervention combines knowledge acquisition, bias awareness, and practice of bias mitigating skills in simulation-based communication encounters with racially/ethnically diverse standardized patients. The trial evaluates the effect of this 3-part program on patient BP outcomes, self-reported patient medication adherence, patient-reported quality of provider communication, and trainee bias awareness.Methods : We are conducting a cluster randomized trial of the intervention among cohorts of internal medicine (IM), family medicine (FM), and doctorate nurse practitioner (DNP) trainees at a single academic medical center. We are enrolling entire specialty cohorts of IM, FM, and NP trainees over a 3-year period, with each academic year constituting an intervention cycle. There are 3 cycles of implementation corresponding to 3 sequential academic years. Within each academic year, we randomize training times to 1 of 5 start dates using a stepped wedge design. The stepped wedge design compares outcomes within training clusters before and after the intervention, as well as across exposed and unexposed clusters. Primary outcome of blood pressure control is measured at the patient-level for patients clustered within trainees. Eligible patients for outcomes analysis are: English-speaking; non-White racial/ethnic minority; Medicaid recipient (regardless of race/ethnicity); hypertension; not have pregnancy, dementia, schizophrenia, bipolar illness, or other serious comorbidities that would interfere with hypertension self-control; not enrolled in hospice. Secondary outcomes include trainee bias awareness. A unique feature of this trial is the engagement of academic and community stakeholders to design, pilot test and implement a training program addressing healthcare.Discussion: Equipping clinicians with skills to mitigate implicit bias in clinical encounters is crucial to addressing persistent disparities in healthcare outcomes. Our novel, integrated approach may improve patient outcomes.Trial registration : NCT03375918Protocol version : 2.0 (October 16, 2020)
Impact of Robinia pseudoacacia stand conversion on soil properties and bacterial community composition in Mount Tai, China
Authors: li kun , han xu , ni ruiqiang , shi ge , de-Miguel Sergio , li chuanrong , shen weixing , zhang yikun , Zhang xingzhong
Published: October 2020

Background: Robinia pseudoacacia is a widely planted pioneer tree species in reforestations on barren mountains in northern China. Because of its nitrogen-fixing ability, it can play a positive role in soil and forest restoration. After clear-cutting of planted stands, R. pseudoacacia stands become coppice plantations. The impacts of shifting from seedling to coppice stands on soil bacterial community and soil properties have not been well described. This study aims to quantify how soil properties and bacterial community composition vary between planted seedling versus coppice stands.Methods: Nine 20×20 m plots were randomly selected in seedling and coppice stands. The bulk soil and rhizosphere soil were sampled in summer 2017. Bulk soil was sampled at 10 cm from the soil surface using a soil auger. Rhizosphere soil samples were collected using a brush. The soil samples were transported to the laboratory for chemical analysis, and bacterial community composition and diversity was obtained through DNA extraction, 16S rRNA gene amplification and high-throughput sequencing.Results: The results showed that, compared to seedling plantations, soil quality decreased significantly in coppice stands, but without affecting soil exchangeable Mg2+ and K+. Total carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) were lower in the rhizosphere than in bulk soil, whereas nutrient availability showed an opposite trend. The conversion from seedling to coppice plantations was also related to significant differences in soil bacterial community structure and to the reduction of soil bacterial α-diversity. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that bacterial community composition was similar in both bulk and rhizosphere soils in second generation coppice plantations. Specially, the conversion from seedling to coppice stands increased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Rhizobium, but reduced that of Actinobacteria, which may result in a decline of soil nutrient availability. Mantel tests revealed that C, N, Soil organic matter (SOM), nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) and available phosphorus positively correlated with bacterial community composition, while a variation partition analysis (VPA) showed that NO3--N explained a relatively greater proportion of bacterial distribution (15.12%), compared with C and SOM. Surprisingly, N showed no relationship with bacterial community composition, which may be related to nitrogen transportation.Conclusions: The conversion from seedling to coppice stands reduced soil quality and led to spatial-temporal homogenization of the soil bacterial community structure in both the rhizosphere and bulk soils. Such imbalance in microbial structure can accelerate the decline of R. pseudoacacia. This may affect the role of R. pseudoacacia coppice stands in soil and forest restoration of barren lands in mountain areas.
SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies in patients with varying severity of acute COVID-19 illness
Authors: Jeewandara Chandima , Jayathilaka Deshni , Gomes Laksiri , Wijewickrama Ananda , Narangoda Eranga , Idampitiya Damayanthi , Guruge Dinuka , Wijayamuni Ruwan , Manilgama Suranga , Ogg Graham , Tan Chee Wah , Wang Lin-Fa , Malavige Gathsaurie Neelika
Published: October 2020

In order to support vaccine development, and to aid convalescent plasma therapy, it would be important to understand the kinetics, timing and persistence of SARS-CoV2 neutralizing antibodies (NAbs), and their association with clinical disease severity. Therefore, we used a surrogate viral neutralization test to evaluate their levels in patients with varying severity of illness, in those with prolonged shedding and those with mild/asymptomatic illness at various time points.Patients with severe or moderate COVID-19 illness had earlier appearance of NAbs at higher levels compared to those with mild or asymptomatic illness. Furthermore, those who had prolonged shedding of the virus, had NAbs appearing faster and at higher levels than those who cleared the virus earlier. During the first week of illness the NAb levels of those with mild illness was significantly less (p=0.01), compared to those with moderate and severe illness. At the end of 4 weeks (28 days), although 89% had Nabs, 38/76 (50%) in those with >90 days had a negative result for the presence of NAbs. The Ab levels significantly declined during convalescence (>90 days since onset of illness), compared to 4 to 8 weeks since onset of illness. Our data show that high levels of NAbs during early illness associated with clinical disease severity and that these antibodies declined in 50% of individuals after 3 months since onset of illness.
An automated workflow to screen alkene reductases using high-throughput thin layer chromatography
Authors: Garabedian Brett M. , Meadows Corey W. , Mingardon Florence , Guenther Joel M. , de Rond Tristan , Abourjeily Raya , Lee Taek Soon
Published: October 2020

Background: Synthetic biology efforts often require high-throughput screening tools for enzyme engineering campaigns. While innovations in chromatographic and mass spectrometry-based techniques provide relevant structural information associated with enzyme activity, these approaches can require cost-intensive instrumentation and technical expertise not broadly available. Moreover, complex workflows and analysis time can significantly impact throughput. To this end, we develop an automated, 96-well screening platform based on thin layer chromatography (TLC) and use it to monitor in vitro activity of a geranylgeranyl reductase isolated from Sulfolobus acidocaldarius (SaGGR). Results: Unreduced SaGGR products are oxidized to their corresponding epoxide and applied to thin layer silica plates by acoustic printing. These derivatives are chromatographically separated based on the number of epoxides they possess and are covalently ligated to a chromophore, allowing detection of enzyme variants with unique product distributions or enhanced reductase activity. Herein, we employ this workflow to examine farnesol reduction using a codon-saturation mutagenesis library at site Leu377 of SaGGR. We show this TLC-based screen can distinguish between 4-fold differences in enzyme activity for select mutants and validated those results by GC-MS. Conclusions: With appropriate quantitation methods, this workflow can be used to screen polyprenyl reductase activity and can be readily adapted to analyze broader catalyst libraries whose products are amenable to TLC analysis.
Sustaining Aquifers and their Water Economies
Authors: Baah-Kumi Bernard , Amer Saud , Ward Frank
Published: October 2020

A long-established practice of managing aquifers relies on pumping restrictions to curtail drawdowns, in spite of their high economic impacts and the serious disputes that can follow such decisions. This paper applies an empirical, quantitative hydro-economic model that helps aquifer managers reverse aquifer drawdowns while minimizing the economic losses from pumping restrictions. We develop and present an innovative optimization framework for identifying pumping restrictions that minimize economic losses from current economic activities while eliminating the unsustainable threats from falling aquifers. We investigate several alternative measures to reduce economic costs of pumping limitations, including a proportional sharing of reductions across uses, several priority allocation methods, and permitted pumping caps augmented by permit trading. Results show that the largest reduction in costs of aquifer protection occurs when permitted pumping caps are combined with trading. The model is applied to improve management of two heavily-pumped aquifers in Kenya, but are generalizable to many aquifers worldwide experiencing unsustainable pumping.
Light manipulation using organic semiconducting materials for enhanced photosynthesis
Authors: Zorz Jackie , Richardson William , Laventure Audrey , Haines Marianne , Cieplechowicz Edward , Aslani Alireza , Vadlamani Agasteswar , Bergerson Joule , Welch Greg , Strous Marc
Published: October 2020

Photosynthetic microorganisms, such as algae, are sources of bioproducts and pharmaceuticals. As they require only sunlight and carbon dioxide to grow, they have potential for future mitigation of CO2 emissions. However, inefficiencies in the growth of these organisms remains an issue for realizing these emission reductions, primarily in terms of photosynthetic efficiency, photoinhibition, and photolimitation. Here, we show how the use of light filtration through semi-transparent films comprised of organic π-conjugated molecules and subsequent organic photovoltaic devices, has the potential to improve the photosynthetic efficiency of algae, and the total power generation of a combined organic photovoltaic/algae system. Experimental data is used to fit a photosynthetic model predicting algal photosynthetic growth given light intensity and light transmission through an organic photovoltaic device. This work demonstrates the feasibility of using a system combining photosynthetic growth with electricity-producing organic photovoltaics and provides a template for exploring other blended applications of these technologies.
Enhanced Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction with Defective TiO2 Nanotubes Modified by Single-Atom Binary Metal Components
Authors: Pan Honghui , Wang Xiaoguang , Xiong Zhiwei , Sun Minghui , Murugananthan Muthu , Zhang Yanrong
Published: October 2020

A binary component catalyst consists of single atoms (SAs- Pt and Au) anchored on self-doped TiO2 nanotubes (TNTs), was developed for photocatalytic CO2 reduction. The defects introduced TNTs substrate was stabilized with atomic Pt and Au via strong metal support interactions (MSI), due to which, the covalent interactions of Pt-O and Au-Ti facilitated an effective transfer of photo-generated electrons from the defective sites to the SAs, and in turn an enhanced separation of electron–hole pairs and charge-carrier transmission. The Pt-Au/R-TNTs with 0.33 wt% of SA metals, exhibited a maximum of 149 times higher photocatalytic performance than unmodified R-TNT and a total apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 17.9%, in which the yield of CH4 and C2H6 reached to 360.0 and 28.8 µmol g− 1 h− 1, respectively. The metals loading shifted the oxidation path of H2O from •OH generation into O2 evolution, that inhibited the self-oxidization of the photocatalyst.
Thermolabile Drug Storage in an Ambulatory Setting
Authors: Pazo-Oubiña Fernando do , Alorda-Ladaria Bartomeu , Gómez-Lobon Ana , Vallespir Bàrbara Boyeras , Estelrich Maria Margalida Santandreu , Puigserver Clara Martorell , Zamora María Gómez , Bosch Pere Ventayol , Sánchez Olga Delgado
Published: October 2020

BackgroundMore and thermolabile drugs are becoming available, and in most cases, these medications are dispensed to ambulatory patients. However, there is no regulation once medications are dispensed to patients and little is known with regard to what happens during transport and home storage. Previous studies suggest that these drugs are improperly stored. The present study was designed to determine the storage conditions of thermolabile drugs once they are dispensed to the patient in the Hospital Pharmacy Department.MethodsThis is a prospective observational study to assess the temperature profile of 7 thermolabile drugs once they are dispensed to ambulatory patients at a tertiary care hospital. A data logger was added to the medication packaging. Temperature was considered inappropriate if one of the following circumstances were met: any temperature record less than or equal to 0ºC or over 25ºC; temperatures between 0-2ºC or 8ºC-25ºC for a continuous period over 30 minutes. The time series of temperature measurements obtained from each data logger were analyzed as statistically independent variables. The data shown did not undergo any statistical treatment and must be considered directly related to thermal measurements.ResultsOne hundred and fourteen patients were included and 107 patients were available for the analysis. On the whole, a mean of 50.6 days (SD 18.3) were measured and the mean temperature was 6.88ºC (SD 2.93). Three data loggers (2.8%) maintained all the measurements between 2ºC and 8ºC with less than 3 continuous data (< 30 minutes) out of this range but no data over 25ºC or below or equal to 0ºC. 28 (26.2%) data loggers had at least one measurement below zero, 1 data logger had a measurement greater than 25ºC and 75 (70.1%) were between 0ºC and 2ºC and/or between 8º and 25ºC for more than 30 minutes.ConclusionsOnce dispensed to patients, most thermolabile drugs are improperly stored. Future studies should focus on clinical consequences and possible solutions.
Alleviation of EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-induced Skin Toxicity by Modified Huang-Lian-Jie-Du Decoction Cream in Cancer Patients
Authors: Lee Ming-Yang , Lin Mei-Yi , Chang Yu-Ju , Tseng Yu-Ting , Huang I-An , Siao Ying-Yu , Liu Yi-Wen
Published: October 2020

Background. The EGFRIs and TKIs are effective for cancer target therapy, but the acneiform rashes or called inflammatory papulopustular exanthemas are common (50% to 100%). The conventional therapy for EGFRIs/TKIs-induced skin toxicity is steroids and antibiotics, but their effect is still limited. In this study, a modified Chinese herbal medicine Huang Lian Jie Du decoction cream with Yin-Cold (YC) medicine characteristic was investigated for the effect on patients suffering EGFRIs/TKIs-induced skin toxicity.Methods. The modified Huang Lian Jie Du (mHLJD) decoction cream was made from 10 herbal medicines including 4 major medicines (Huanglian, Huangqin, Huangbo, and Zhizi) in traditional HLJD decoction. Patients with EGFRIs/TKIs-induced skin toxicity were enrolled. Patients were excluded if they also used other cream for the skin toxicity. Skin conditions were follow up every 2 weeks. The patients’ characteristics, the skin toxicities and treatment response were recorded and analyzed after using mHLJD decoction cream for 1~2 months.Results. The mHLJD decoction cream and its subpackages were stored at 4℃ before use. Thirty-four patients who had grade 1-3 skin toxicities after receiving EGFRIs or TKIs were enrolled. Five patients were withdrawal or excluded, 2 patients with paronychia syndrome had no improvement and were excluded, too. Finally, data from 27 patients were analyzed. The mean grade of rash acneiform was decreased from 2.23 (ranged 1 to 3) to 0.38 (ranged 0 to 1) after mHLJD decoction cream treatment for 1~2 months. And the mean grade of dry skin was decreased from 1.57 (ranged 1 to 2) to 0.77 (ranged 0 to 1). The changes of skin toxicity were significant and no obvious adverse events.Conclusions. In summary, the mHLJD decoction cream is effective for alleviation of EGFRIs/TKIs-induced skin rash acneiform and dry skin. And mHLJD decoction cream has no effect in patients with paronychia syndrome.
Global Scenarios of Resource and Emissions Savings from Systemic Material Efficiency in Buildings and Cars
Authors: Pauliuk Stefan , Heeren Niko , Berrill Peter , Fishman Tomer , Nistad Andrea , Tu Qingshi , Wolfram Paul , Hertwich Edgar
Published: October 2020

Material production now accounts for 23% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Resource efficiency and circular economy policies promise emission reductions through reducing material use, but their potential contribution to climate change mitigation has not yet been quantified. Here we present a high-resolution approach for tracking material flows and energy use of products throughout their life cycles, focusing on passenger vehicles and residential buildings. We estimate future changes in material flows and operational energy use due to increased yields, light-weight designs, material substitution, increased service efficiency, extended service life, and increased reuse and recycling. Together, these material efficiency strategies can reduce cumulative global GHG emissions until 2060 by 16-39 Gt CO2e (passenger vehicles) and 28-72 Gt CO2e (residential buildings), depending on climate policy assumptions. The use of wood and more intensive use are promising strategies in residential buildings. Ride sharing and car sharing are best for residential buildings.
A Modified Method to Treat Severe Asymptomatic Pre-Existing Degeneration of Adjacent Segment: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Zhang Xinliang , Zhu Jinwen , Li Yibing , Hao Dingjun , Gao Wenjie
Published: October 2020

Background: Pre-existing degeneration of adjacent segment is an important risk factor for adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), but limited and controversial studies have addressed its management.Methods: Patients with symptomatic degeneration of the L5/S1 segment warranting surgical interference and severe asymptomatic degeneration of the L4/5 segment were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, those who underwent interbody fusion in the causative (L5/S1) segment and distraction of the intervertebral space and facet fusion in the adjacent L4/5 segment were included as Group A (n=103). Patients who underwent interbody fusion in both L5/S1 and L4/5 segments were included as Group B (n=81). Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated.Results: Mean follow-up was 58.5 months (range, 48-75 m). No significant difference in clinical outcomes or the incidence of adjacent segment degeneration in L3/4 segment was found between Groups A and B. Compared with Group B, less bleeding (315±84 vs. 532±105 ml), shorter operation time (107±34 vs. 158±55 min) and lower costs (13,830±2640 vs. 16,020±3380 US$) were found in Group A (P<0.05). In Group A, disc height ratio (DHR) of L4/5 segment was significantly increased from preoperative value of 0.40±0.13 to last follow-up value of 0.53±0.18 (P<0.05), while the degree of canal stenosis (DCS) was decreased from preoperative value of 34.3±11.2% to last follow-up value of 15.9±9.3% (P<0.05). Conclusions: This modified method could be effective in treating severe asymptomatic pre-existing degeneration of adjacent segment in lumbar spine.
Concomitant Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia Repair with Cholecystectomy: A Multicentric Study
Authors: Preda Silviu-Daniel , Konstantinos Sapalidis , Zarogoulidis Paul , Bințintan Vasile Virgil , Cristian Daniel Alin , Bică Marius , Pătrașcu Ștefan , Pantea Stelian , Patru Daniela , Romanidis Konstantinos , Șurlin Marin Valeriu
Published: October 2020

Background Concomitant surgery refers to performing two or more surgical operations on one patient under the same anesthesia. Methods We performed a retrospective multicenter study from October 2016 to October 2019, analyzing patients who underwent laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair. We extracted data of patients who underwent concomitant laparoscopic surgery for both hiatal hernia repair and cholecystectomy in the following Clinics: 1st Clinic of Surgery of Craiova Emergency Clinical County Hospital, “Colțea” Hospital, 3rd Clinic of Surgery of Cluj-Napoca and 3rd Surgery Clinic of University General Hospital of Thessaloniki and identified 20 patients who underwent hiatal hernia repair and had an added cholecystectomy. Allocation of data by hiatal hernia type showed 6 type IV hernia (complex hernia), 13 type III hernias (mixed type) and 1 type I hernia (sliding hernia). Out of the 20 cases analyzed; 19 were chronic cholecystitis and one patient presented with acute cholecystitis. Average operating time was 168 minutes. Blood loss was minimum. Cruroraphy was performed in all cases, mesh reinforcement was added in 5 cases, and fundoplication was added in all cases: 3 Toupet, 2 Dorr and 15 Floppy-Nissen. Fundopexy was routinely added in cases with Toupet fundoplication. Cholecystectomy was performed in the following manner: 19 retrograde, 1 bipolar. Results All patients had favorable postoperative hospitilisation. Patient follow up was at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months, with no sign of recurrence for hiatal hernia (anatomical or symptomatic) and no postcholecystectomy syndrome. Conclusion Concomitant laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair and cholecystectomy is a safe and feasible option for patients with indication of surgery for both pathologies.
hMAGEA2 Promotes Cell Growth and Tumorigenicity in Melanoma
Authors: Yi Junkoo , Park Song , Huang Hai , Zhang Haibo , Kim Eun Gyung , Liu Kang Dong , Choi Seong Kyoon , Ryoo Zae Young , Kim Myoung-Ok
Published: October 2020

Background: Melanoma is one of the most malignant skin cancers, and its incidence continues to rise worldwide, especially in fair-skinned populations. A clinical challenge with melanoma is that it has no unique or specific clinical presentation. The clinical presentation of melanoma varies with the anatomic localization, type of growth, and histopathology. Proteins belonging to the melanoma-associated antigen (MAGEA) gene family are typically expressed in germline cells but differentially expressed in a variety of human cancers, particularly melanoma. Melanoma-associated antigen 2 (MAGEA2) is such a protein. In this study, we investigated whether the expression of human MAGEA2 (hMAGEA2) is associated with melanoma. Methods: SK-MEL-5 and SK-MEL-28 cell lines were used to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the progression and invasiveness of melanoma. A melanoma human tissue array was used to examine the correlation between the progression of melanoma and expression of hMAGEA2Results: hMAGEA2 is overexpressed in human melanoma tissues, including metastatic tissues. In SK-MEL-5 and SK-MEL-28 cells, overexpression of hMAGEA2 increased cellular proliferation and colony formation, whereas hMAEGA2 knockdown suppressed cellular proliferation, colony formation, and migration. Conclusion: These results show that the hMAGEA2 protein plays a role in the growth and invasiveness of melanoma cells, and it is correlated with melanoma metastasis. Therefore, hMAGEA2 contributes to the progression of melanoma and may be a diagnostic and novel therapeutic target for the treatment of melanoma metastasis patients.