bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life data for individuals affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A baseline dataset from the Cure SMA Community Update Survey
Authors: Belter Lisa , Cruz Rosángel , Jarecki Jill
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Individuals and/or caregivers of individuals affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) completed the 2019 Cure SMA Community Update Survey, online, assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL), loss of work productivity, and fatigue using the Health Utilities Index Questionnaire (HUI), the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI), and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Fatigue Short Form (PROMIS Fatigue SF), respectively. The purpose was to collect baseline quality of life results among individuals affected by SMA using the above Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs).

RESULTS

Of 666 surveys completed between March and May 2019, 478 were included in this analysis, accounting for duplicates, missing data, or deaths. The breakdown across SMA type I, II and III was 25%, 47% and 28%, respectively. Responses were characterized by current functional status/milestone, with subsets for “permanent ventilation,” “non-sitters,” “sitters,” “walk with support,” and “walk alone.” WPAI and HUI respondents included affected adults and caregivers. The PROMIS Fatigue SF was completed by the primary caregiver of affected children.

Overall, those affected by a less severe form of SMA and with a higher functional status reported higher HRQoL and lower work productivity and activity impairment. All affected individuals reported higher fatigue levels than the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers useful insights into the burden of SMA among affected individuals and their caregivers. The results provide a baseline picture of the patient and caregiver experience with SMA in a post-treatment era from which to measure year-over-year changes in quality of life scores from new therapies and improved care. The WPAI demonstrates the significant impact of work productivity among SMA populations. Aspects of the HUI seem more appropriate to certain SMA sub-populations than others. Measures from the PROMIS Fatigue SF appear to under-represent the burden of fatigue often reported by SMA individuals and caregivers; this may, perhaps be due to a lack of sensitivity in the questions associated with fatigue in the SMA affected population, when compared with other studies on this topic. Overall, these results suggest the need for SMA-specific quality of life outcome measures to fully capture clinically meaningful change in the SMA population.
The Samuel F. B. Morse Statue in Central Park: Scientific Study and Laser Cleaning of a 19th-Century American Outdoor Bronze Monument
Authors: Basso Elena , Pozzi Federica , Reiley Matthew C.
Published: July 2020

Many of Central Park’s bronze statues were coated with lacquer as a protective measure between the late 1970s and early 1990s. In several cases, these coatings outlasted their performance life and were no longer adequately protecting the sculptures. In 2010, a cyclical campaign to remove and refurbish the coatings provided an opportunity to closely assess the condition of de-coated surfaces and to develop suitable, sustainable treatment approaches. The Samuel F. B. Morse statue, created in 1870 by Byron Pickett, commemorates the 19 th -century painter and inventor known for the telegraphic code that bears his name. Initially, samples from this statue were collected on the field and analyzed with various techniques to characterize the degradation products that were heavily affecting its surface and the organic coatings used to protect the bronze. Various corrosion species, mainly sulfates and chlorides, were identified by X-ray powder diffraction, while pyrolysis – gas chromatography / mass spectrometry revealed that the organic coatings were based on mineral wax and acrylics. These results informed a decision to relocate the statue to a controlled workshop space to aid in the manipulation of the large figure and optimize cleaning by laser ablation. Treatment was monitored through three campaigns of analysis using portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) spectroscopy, performed on select locations, to characterize the extent of corrosion across the sculpture’s surface and monitor changes on the target areas throughout the cleaning. Following the initial phase of treatment, pXRF showed the substantial removal of iron- and lead-rich compounds from the brownish-toned coating and atmospheric pollution deposition. In the subsequent treatment phases, variations in the relative amounts of sulfates and chlorides were noted and further investigated through the examination of a cross section by means of scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Based on the findings of iron-containing pigments in the organic coating, a decision to apply a new, similar, translucent, brown-toned coating containing such coloring materials was made to achieve the desired visual nuance for the finish and provide additional corrosion inhibition to the bronze. Scientific analysis on the Morse statue has helped characterize its materials, methods of fabrication, and current conditions on a microscopic scale; in addition, it has guided the means and methodologies of treatment and relays essential information useful for future preservation.
The First Evidence for SLFN11 Expression As An Independent Prognostic Factor for Patients with Esophageal Cancer After Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Kagami Takuma , Yamade Mihoko , Suzuki Takahiro , Uotani Takahiro , Tani Shinya , Hamaya Yasushi , Iwaizumi Moriya , Osawa Satoshi , Sugimoto Ken , Miyajima Hiroaki , Baba Satoshi , Sugimura Haruhiko , Murai Junko , Pommier Yves , Furuta Takahisa
Published: July 2020

Background:Schlafen 11 (SLFN11) was recently identified as a dominant determinant of sensitivity to DNA-targeting agents including platinum-based drugs. SLFN11 also reportedly enhances cellular radiosensitivity. In this study, we examined the prognostic value of SLFN11 expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT), including the platinum derivative nedaplatin.Methods:Seventy-three patients with ESCC who received dCRT were examined. SLFN11 expression was analyzed using immunohistochemistry and evaluated using a histo-score (H-score). Correlation between the H-score and overall survival was analyzed. An H-score ≥ 51 was provisionally defined as indicating high SLFN11 expression.Results:High SLFN11 expression was independently associated with better prognosis in ESCC patients (hazard ratio = 0.295, 95% CI = 0.143–0.605, p = 0.001 for multivariate analysis). Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that the prognostic value of high SLFN11 expression was most evident in patients at clinical stages II and III (p = 0.004).Conclusion:SLFN11 expression is an independent prognostic factor for ESCC patients treated with dCRT and a potential biomarker for treatment selection of ESCC. Examination of SLFN11 may be particularly useful for clinical Stage II–III patients who wish to choose dCRT (instead of surgery) to preserve esophageal function.
Prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of hepatitis E virus in pigs in Vietnam
Authors: Lee Hu Suk , Dao Duy Tung , Bui Vuong Nghia , Bui Anh Ngoc , Le Duy Thanh , Nguyen-Viet Hung , Randolph Delia Grace , Thakur Krishna K. , Hagiwara Katsuro
Published: July 2020

Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the important zoonotic diseases with a worldwide distribution. The main objective of this study was to assess the sero-prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of HEV in Vietnam. Pig blood and fecal pooled samples were used to determine the prevalence of HEV. We evaluated the true prevalence (TP) of HEV from apparent prevalence (AP) by taking into account the sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic tests using a Bayesian approach. For phylogenetic analysis, the data compared with worldwide HEV reference strains illustrating all eight genotypes (G1-G8) which were identified in previous study.Results: A total of 475 sera and 250 fecal pooled samples were collected at slaughterhouses and pig farms from five provinces, in Viet Nam. Overall, the AP of HEV was 58.53% (95% CI: 53.95-62.70) while the TP was slightly higher (59.96%, 95% credible interval: 54.49-65.41). In terms of pooled samples, overall, the AP (13.38%, 95% credible interval: 9.89-17.30) of HEV was much higher than TP (6.80%, 95%CI: 4.01-10.66). One strain in Hanoi, two strains in Dak Lak, seven strains in An Giang, four strains in Son La and two strains in Nghe An were isolated. The phylogenetic tree demonstrated that 19 Vietnamese strains were clustered into HEV 3 and 4.Conclusions: This study provided evidence that HEV is circulating in domestic pigs in Vietnam. From a public health perspective, it is very important to raise public awareness for high-risk groups (e.g. slaughterhouse workers, pig traders, farmers and market sellers) who have more opportunities to come in contact with pig and contaminated meats.
The low fresh gas flow anesthesia and hypothermia in neonates undergoing digestive surgeries: A retrospective before-after study
Authors: Cui Yu , Wang Yu , Cao Rong , Li Gen , Deng Lingmei , Li Jia
Published: July 2020

Background: Based on the previous investigation in our institution, the incidence of intraoperative hypothermia in neonates was high. Since September 1st, 2019, the recommendation had been launched to utilize ≤1 L/min fresh gas flow during the neonates’ surgical procedure. We therefore intended to evaluate the association between low fresh gas flow anesthesia and the occurrence of hypothermia in neonates undergoing digestive surgeries. Methods: A retrospective chart review, before-after study was conducted for neonates who underwent digestive surgeries. The primary outcomes were the incidence of hypothermia. The secondary outcomes included hospital mortality, the value of lowest temperature, blood loss, mean body temperature during the surgery, the length of hypothermia during the surgery and postoperative hospital length-of- stay (PLOS). Results: 249 neonates fulfilled the eligibility criteria. The overall incidence of intraoperative hypothermia was 81.9%. The low fresh gas flow anesthesia significantly reduced the odds of hypothermia [routine group: 149 (87.6%) versus low flow group: 55 (69.6%); p ＜ 0.01]. Moreover, the low fresh gas flow anesthesia could reduce the length of hypothermia [routine group: 104 mins (50, 156) versus low flow group: 30 mins (0,100); p ＜ 0.01], as well as elevate the value of lowest temperature for neonates [routine group: 35.1℃ (34.5, 35.7) versus low flow group: 35.7℃ (35.3, 36); p ＜ 0.01]. After adjustment for confounding, low fresh gas flow anesthesia and the length of surgical time were independently associated with intraoperative hypothermia.Conclusions: Low fresh gas flow anesthesia is an effective way to alleviate hypothermia in neonates undergoing open digestive surgery.
High burden of Self-reported Sexually Transmitted Infections among Key Populations in Mozambique: The Urgent Need for an Integrated Surveillance System
Authors: Boothe Makini A.S. , Comé Charlotte , Baltazar Cynthia Semá , Chicuecue Noela , Seleme Jessica , Langa Denise Chitsondzo , Sathane Isabel , Raymond Henry Fisher , Fazito Erika , Temmerman Marleen , Luchters Stanley
Published: July 2020

Background: Key populations - men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSW) and people who inject drugs (PWID) – are at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (STI) given their sexual risk behaviours along with social, legal and structural barriers to prevention, care and treatment services. The purpose of this secondary analysis is to assess the prevalence of self-reported STIs and describe associated risk factors among participations of the first Biological Behavioural Surveillance (BBS) in Mozambique.Methods: Responses from the first BBS surveys conducted in 2011-2014 were aggregated across survey-cities to produce pooled estimates for each population. Aggregate weighted estimates were computed to analyse self-reported STI prevalence. Unweighted pooled estimates were used in multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors associated with self-reported STI. Results: The prevalence of self-reported STI was 11.9% (95% CI: 7.8-16.0), 33.6% (95% CI: 29.0-41.3), and 22.0% (95% CI: 17.0-27.0) among MSM, FSW and PWID, respectively. MSM who were circumcised, had HIV, reported drug use, reported receptive anal sex, and non-condom use with their last male partner had greater odds of STI self-report. STI-self report among FSW was associated with living in Beira, being married, employment aside from sex work, physical violence, sexual violence, drug use, access to comprehensive HIV prevention services, non-condom use with last client, and sexual relationship with a non-client romantic partner. Among PWID, risk factors for self-reported STI included living in Nampula/Nacala, access to HIV prevention services, and sex work.Conclusion: The high-burden of STIs among survey participants requires integrated HIV and STI prevention, treatment, and harm reduction services that address overlapping risk behaviours, especially injection drug use and sex work. A robust public health response requires the creation of a national STI surveillance system for better screening and diagnostic procedures within these vulnerable populations.
Role of the SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling pathway in cartilage and subchondral bone in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis induced by overloaded functional orthopedics in rats
Authors: yang jing , Li Yazhen , Liu Ying , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Qi , Chen Junbo , Yan Xiao , Yuan Xiao
Published: July 2020

Objectives: To: (i) use a mandibular-advancement appliance in rats to investigate the role of the stromal cell-derived factor/ CXC receptor 4 (SDF-1/CXCR4) signaling pathway in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA) induced by overloaded functional orthopedics (OFO); (ii) provide a cellular and molecular basis for efficacious treatment of skeletal class-II malocclusion and avoidance of TMJ OA.Method: Male Sprague–Dawley rats (6 weeks) were divided randomly into control+normal saline (NS), EXP+ADM3100 (SDF-1 antagonist), EXP+NS, and control+ADM3100 groups. Changes in articular cartilage and subchondral bone after TMJ OA in these four groups were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Immunofluorescence double staining (IDS), Safranin-O staining, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and micro-computed tomography at 2, 4, and 8 weeks.Results: OFO led to increased expression of SDF-1, CXCR4, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)13 and decreased expression of collagen II. The thickness of the hypertrophic cartilage layer was reduced at 4 weeks in the EXP+NS group, and damage to subchondral bone was observed at 2 weeks. Using ADM3100 to inhibit SDF-1 signaling could attenuate expression of MMP13, cartilage damage, and osteoblast differentiation. IDS showed that the areas of expression of SDF-1 and OSX in subchondral bone overlapped.Conclusions: Overloaded functional orthopedics (OFO) induced TMJ-OA. The destruction of subchondral bone in TMJ OA caused by OFO occurred before damage to cartilage. SDF-1/CXCR4 may induce the osteogenic differentiation and cause cartilage degradation in TMJ OA caused by OFO.
Children with oligoarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis have skewed synovial monocyte polarization pattern with functional impairment – a distinct inflammatory pattern for oligoarticular juvenile arthritis
Authors: Schmidt Tobias , Berthold Elisabet , Arve-Butler Sabine , Gullstrand Birgitta , Mossberg Anki , Kahn Fredrik , Bengtsson Anders A , Månsson Bengt , Kahn Robin
Published: July 2020

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an umbrella term of inflammatory joint diseases in children. Oligoarthritis is the most common form in the Western world, representing roughly 60% of all patients. Monocytes and macrophages play an important role in adult arthritides, but their role in oligoarticular JIA is less studied. Polarization highly influences monocytes’ and macrophages’ effector functions, broadly separated into pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Here, we set out to investigate the polarization pattern and functional aspects of synovial monocytes in oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

Paired synovial fluid, blood samples (n=13) and synovial biopsies (n=3) were collected from patients with untreated oligoarticular JIA. Monocytes were analyzed for polarization markers by flow cytometry and qPCR. Effector function was analyzed by a phagocytosis assay. Polarization of healthy monocytes was investigated by stimulation with synovial fluid in vitro . Monocyte/macrophage distribution, polarization and mRNA expression were investigated in biopsies by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and in situ hybridization.

Results

Children with oligoarticular JIA have polarized synovial fluid monocytes of a specific M1(IFNγ)/M2(IL-4)-like pattern. This was evidenced by increased surface expression of CD40 (p<0.001), CD86 (p<0.001) and CD206 (p<0.001), but not CD163, as compared to paired circulating monocytes. Additionally, polarization was extensively explored at the mRNA level and synovial fluid monocytes differentially expressed classical markers of M1(IFNγ)/M2(IL-4) polarization compared to circulating monocytes. Synovial fluid monocytes were functionally affected, as assessed by reduced capacity to phagocytose (p<0.01). Synovial fluid induced M2 markers (CD16 and CD206), but not M1 (CD40) or CD86 in healthy monocytes and did not induce cytokine production. Single and co-expression of surface CD40 and CD206, as well as mRNA expression of IL-10 and TNF, was observed in monocytes/macrophages in synovial biopsies.

Conclusion

Children with untreated oligoarticular JIA have similar and distinct synovial fluid monocyte polarization pattern of mixed pro- and anti-inflammatory features. This pattern was not exclusively a result of the synovial fluid milieu as monocytes/macrophages in the synovial membrane show similar patterns. Our study highlights a distinct polarization pattern in oligoarticular JIA, which could be utilized for future treatment strategies.
Type of discrepancy between glycosylated hemoglobin and fasting plasma glucose is associated with in-hospital outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome and diabetes: findings from the Improving Care for Cardiovascular Disease in China - Acute Coronary Syndrome (CCC-ACS) Project
Authors: Ye Nan , Yang Lijiao , Wang Guoqin , Bian Weijing , Xu Fengbo , Ma Changsheng , Zhao Dong , Liu Jing , Hao Yongchen , Liu Jun , Yang Na , Cheng Hong
Published: July 2020

Background The discrepancy between glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in clinical practice may be related to factors such as acute stress, renal dysfunction, and anemia, and its relationship with in-hospital outcomes is uncertain. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between the type of discrepancy between HbA1c and FPG and in-hospital outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and diabetes. Methods The Improving Care for Cardiovascular Disease in China - Acute Coronary Syndrome (CCC-ACS) project is a national, hospital-based quality improvement project with an ongoing database. Patients with ACS, diabetes and complete HbA1c and FPG values at admission were included. The consistent group included patients with HbA1c < 6.5% and FPG < 7.0 mmol/L or HbA1c ≥ 6.5% and FPG ≥ 7.0 mmol/L. The discrepancy group included patients with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% and FPG < 7.0 mmol/L (increased HbA1c group) or HbA1c < 6.5% and FPG ≥ 7.0 mmol/L (increased FBG group).Results A total of 7,762 patients were included in this study. The numbers of patients in the consistent group and discrepancy group were 5,490 and 2,272 respectively. In the discrepancy group, increased HbA1c accounted for 77.5% of discrepancies, and increased FPG accounted for 22.5% of discrepancies. After adjusting for confounders, patients in the increased FPG group had a 1.6-fold increased risk of heart failure (OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.08-2.44), a 1.6-fold increased risk of composite cardiovascular death and heart failure (OR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.09-2.43), and a 1.6-fold increased risk of composite major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) and heart failure (OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.08-2.24).Conclusions Patients with an increased FPG but normal HbA1c had a higher risk of in-hospital adverse outcomes than those with increased HbA1c but normal FPG. This result may indicate that when HbA1c and FPG are inconsistent in patients with ACS and diabetes, the increased FPG that may be caused by stress hyperglycemia may have a more substantial adverse effect than increased HbA1c, which may be caused by chronic hyperglycemia. These high-risk patients should be given more attention and closer monitoring in clinical practice.Trial registry: Clinicaltrial.gov, NCT02306616. Registered 29 November 2014, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02306616?term=NCT02306616&draw=2&rank=1
Patterns of pesticides usage in agriculture in rural Tanzania call for integrating agricultural and public health practices in managing insecticide-resistance in malaria vectors
Authors: Matowo Nancy S. , Tanner Marcel , Munhenga Givemore , Mapua Salum A. , Finda Marceline , Utzinger Jürg , Ngowi Vera , Okumu Fredros O.
Published: July 2020

Background Unrestricted use of pesticides in agriculture is likely to increase insecticide resistance in mosquito vectors. Unfortunately, strategies for managing insecticide resistance in agriculture and public health sectors lack integration. This study explored the types and usage of agricultural pesticides, and awareness and management practices among retailers and farmers in Ulanga and Kilombero districts in south-eastern Tanzania, where Anopheles mosquitoes are resistant to pyrethroids. Methods An exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach was employed. First, a survey to characterise pesticide stocks was conducted in agricultural and veterinary (agrovet) retail stores. Interviews to assess general knowledge and practices regarding agricultural pesticides were performed with 17 retailers and 30 farmers, followed by a survey involving 427 farmers. Concurrently, field observations were done to validate the results. Results Lambda-cyhalothrin, cypermethrin (both pyrethroids) and imidacloprids (neonicotinoids) were the most common agricultural insecticides sold to farmers. The herbicide glyphosate (amino-phosphonates) (59.0%), and the fungicides dithiocarbamate and acylalanine (54.5%), and organochlorine (27.3%) were also readily available in the agrovet shops and widely used by farmers. Although both retailers and farmers had at least primary-level education and recognised pesticides by their trade names, they lacked knowledge on pest control or proper usage of these pesticides. Most of the farmers (54.4%, n=316) relied on instructions from pesticides dealers. Overall, 93.7% (400) farmers practised pesticides mixing in their farms, often in close proximity to water sources. One-third of the farmers disposed of their pesticide leftovers (30.0%, n=128) and most farmers discarded empty pesticide containers into rivers or nearby bushes (55.7%, n = 238). Conclusion Similarities of active ingredients used in agriculture and malaria vector control, poor pesticide management practices and low-levels of awareness among farmers and pesticides retailers might enhance the selection of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors. This study emphasises the need for improving awareness among retailers and farmers on proper usage and management of pesticides. The study also highlights the need for an integrated approach, including coordinated education on pesticide use, to improve the overall management of insecticide resistance in both agricultural and public health sectors.
Clinical Characteristics of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica Ophthalmic infections
Authors: LEUNG KAI CHING PETER , KO TAK CHUEN SIMON
Published: July 2020

Background: Elizabethkingia is a Gram-negative, obligate aerobic, oxidase positive bacillus that is known to cause a variety of nosocomial infections and has emerged as an important pathogen because of multiple anti-microbial resistance. We present the first case series of Elizabethkingia ophthalmic infections, with specific emphasis on its clinical spectrum, risk factors, treatment and outcome.Method: Microbiological specimens growing Elizabethkingia were reviewed retrospectively at a regional tertiary hospital from 2005-2019. Clinical manifestation, risk factors, treatment including types of antibiotics, treatment duration and clinical outcome were documented. Results: Ten cases of culture positive Elizabethkingia ophthalmic infection were identified, which all cultured E. meningoseptica. Four cases of keratitis, three cases of conjunctivitis, two cases of blepharitis and one case of blepharitis-conjunctivitis were observed. Four cases were found to be associated with contact lens use and were discovered to colonize E. meningoseptica. One case of blepharitis was associated with an ocular prosthesis (scleral shell) in an eviscerated eye. Fluoroquinolone and chloramphenicol were most commonly used topical antibiotics for treatment. The mean treatment duration for all infections were averaged at 6.5 weeks. Conclusion: E. meningoseptica is the predominant species that causes ophthalmological related Elizabethkingia infections and is found most frequently manifested on the ocular surface. Contact lens use and ocular prosthesis appears to be a risk factor for infection due to ocular surface barrier disruption and bacteria colonization. Combination of fluroquinolone and chloramphenicol is a safe and effective treatment against Elizabethkingia ocular infections. Further studies are required to determine the susceptibility of commonly used topical anti-microbial agents to Elizabethkingia species.
Effectiveness of Scoliosis-Specific Exercise for Alleviating Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fan Yunli , Ren Qing , TO Michael KT , Cheung Jason Pui Yin
Published: July 2020

Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common pediatric spinal deformity with reported complications including pain, mental health concern and respiratory dysfunction. The Scoliosis-specific exercise (SSE) is prescribed throughout pubertal growth to slow progression although effects are unclear. This review aims to establish the effectiveness of SSE in alleviating AIS in terms of reducing Cobb angle, improving trunk asymmetry and quality of life (QoL). Additionally, it aims to define the effects of age, skeletal maturity, curve magnitude and exercise compliance on the outcomes of SSE. Methods: A systematic reviewed was conducted to net SSE articles. Searched databases included PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CINAHL and Google scholar. The quality of study was critically appraised according to the PEDro scale. Results: A total of ten trials with an average PEDro score of 6.9/10 were examined in this study. Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and two clinical controlled trials suggested that SSE alone and with bracing or traditional exercise had clinical significance in reducing Cobb angle more than 5°. One RCT specifically implicated no comparable effects between bracing and SSE in prevention of curve progression for moderate scoliosis. Insufficient evidence demonstrated the positive effects of SSE in improving truck asymmetry (n=4) and QoL (n=3). Five studies evaluated the interaction effects of age (n=2), skeletal maturity (n=1) and curve magnitude (n=2) with SSE in reducing Cobb angle yet without drawing any firm conclusions. Conclusions: Insufficient evidence is available to prove that SSE with or without other conservative treatments can reduce Cobb angle, improve trunk balance and QoL. The interaction effects of age, skeletal maturity, curve magnitude, and exercise compliance with SSE in reducing Cobb angle are not proven. Future studies should investigate the relationship of influencing factors and SSE in treating AIS but not only testing its effectiveness.
Vital signs assessed in initial clinical encounters predict COVID-19 mortality in an NYC hospital system
Authors: Rechtman Elza , Curtin Paul , Navarro Esmeralda , Nirenberg Sharon , Horton Megan K
Published: July 2020

Timely and effective clinical decision-making for COVID-19 requires rapid identification of risk factors for disease outcomes. Our objective was to identify characteristics available immediately upon first clinical evaluation related COVID-19 mortality. We conducted a retrospective study of 8770 laboratory-confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 from a network of 53 facilities in New-York City. We analysed 3 classes of variables; demographic, clinical, and comorbid factors, in a two-tiered analysis that included traditional regression strategies and machine learning. COVID-19 mortality was 12.7%. Logistic regression identified older age (OR, 1.69 [95%CI, 1.66-1.92]), male sex (OR, 1.57 [95%CI, 1.30-1.90]), higher BMI (OR, 1.03 [95%CI, 1.102-1.05]), higher heart rate (OR, 1.01 [95%CI, 1.00-1.01]), higher respiratory rate (OR, 1.05 [95%CI, 1.03-1.07]), lower oxygen saturation (OR, 0.94 [95%CI, 0.93-0.96]), and chronic kidney disease (OR, 1.53 [95%CI, 1.20-1.95]) were associated with COVID-19 mortality. Using gradient-boosting machine learning, these factors predicted COVID-19 related mortality (AUC=0.86) following cross-validation in a training set. Immediate, objective and culturally generalizable measures accessible upon clinical presentation are effective predictors of COVID-19 outcome. These findings may inform rapid response strategies to optimize health care delivery in parts of the world who have not yet confronted this epidemic, as well as in those forecasting a possible second outbreak.
Soft Tissue Facial Changes Among Adult Females Receiving Orthodontic Treatment: A Spatially Dense 3D Geometric Morphometric Study
Authors: Hou Si Yu , Zhou Wenwen , Dai Hongwei , Wong Hai Ming , Wen Yi Feng , Zhou Jianping
Published: July 2020

Background: To investigate changes in facial morphology during the first six months of orthodontic treatment among adult females receiving orthodontic treatment.Methods: 18 adult females receiving orthodontic treatment were randomly recruited. 3D facial images were taken at baseline (T0), three months (T1), and six months (T2) after treatment initiation. Spatially dense facial landmarks were digitized to allow for sufficient details in characterization of facial features. 3D geometric morphometrics and multivariate statistics were used to investigate changes in mean and variance of facial shape and facial form associated with treatment.Results: We observed statistically significant changes in facial shape across the three treatment stages (p = 0.003). Pairwise comparisons suggested significant changes from T0 to T1 (p = 0.0059) and from T0 to T2 (p = 0.0098). Heatmap visualization indicated that the buccal and temporal region were invaginated while the labial region became protruded with treatment. The magnitude of shape change was 0.009, 0.004, and 0.010 from T0 to T1, T1 to T2, and T0 to T2, respectively, in unit of Procrustes distance. The average magnitude of change per-landmark was 1.31 mm, 0.22 mm, and 1.33 mm, respectively. Changes in mean facial shape were not statistically significant (p = 0.103). No changes in variance of facial shape were observed across treatment stages (p > 0.05).Conclusion: Rate of facial changes was twice as fast during the first three months as that during fourth to sixth month. Buccal and temporal region became invaginated while labial region became protruded with treatment.
Decrease in cell size and cell wall components under ectopic expression of the CaRLK1 gene
Authors: Lee Dong Ju , Kim Il-Chul , Jeong Seungwoo , Wi Seung Gon , Kim Suk Weon , Ahn Woo Seok
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThe Capsicum annuum receptor-like kinase 1 (CaRLK1) gene encodes a transmembrane protein with a cytoplasmic kinase domain and an extracellular domain. It functions as a negative regulator of plant cell death. Ectopic expression of CaRLK1 showed the hypoxia-resistance and enhanced cell division and proliferation. In this study, it was investigated which genes were controlled by ectopic expression of CaRLK1 because it decreased its average cell size of transgenic RLK1ox cells compared with that of wild-type cells (BY-2). ResultsThe average diameter (AD) of the protoplast of RLK1ox cells was about 10 µm shorter than the AD of BY-2 cells. The diameter distribution of the circular protoplasts is mainly from 20 to 40 μm (71.7%) in RLK1ox cells, whereas from 30 to 50 μm (73.0%) in BY-2 cells. Furthermore, cell volume of RLK1ox cells is also 2.5-times smaller than that of BY-2 cells. Smaller cell size of the RLK1ox cells may be related with the inhibited cell expansion because expressions of 12 expansin A genes, 6 expansin-like B genes, 2 ACC synthase genes, and 5 ACC oxidase genes were suppressed, but expressions of 7 gibberellin 2-oxidase genes were induced. The cell walls between two RLK1ox cells are approximately 138.83±4.12 nm thick on average, while those between two BY-2 cells are approximately 156.58±4.54 nm thick. Furthermore, the total content of neutral sugars in the cell wall of RLK1ox cells is less than that of BY-2 cells (about 25%). The RLK1ox cells contained 30% less glucose content than did the BY-2 cells. Thinner cell wall of the RLK1ox cells is related with the decreased cellulose biosynthesis and hemicellulose biosynthesis. Expressions of 7 CESA genes, 5 sucrose synthase 1 genes, 3 mannose-1-phosphate guanyltransferase genes, and 6 glucomannan-4-beta-mannosyltransferase genes were suppressed. The suppressed expressions of 14 polygalacturonase genes may also contribute to make the cell wall of RLK1ox cell thinner than that of BY-2 cell. ConclusionOf special emphasis is its impact of CaRLK1 gene on cell size control and cell wall thickness. Smaller cell size of the RLK1ox cells correlates with the inhibited cell expansion.
Carbon-Involved Near-Surface Evolution of Cobalt Catalyst during Reaction: An in-situ Study
Authors: Yang Feng , Zhao Haofei , Wang Wu , Liu Qidong , Liu Xu , Hu Yuecong , Zhang Xinrui , He Dongsheng , Xu Yingying , He Jiaqing , Wang Rongming , Li Yan
Published: July 2020

When carbon-containing species are involved in reactions catalyzed by transition metals at high temperature, the diffusion of carbon on/in catalysts dramatically influence the catalytic performance. Acquiring information on the carbon-diffusion-involved evolution of catalysts at atomic level is crucial for understanding the reaction mechanism yet also challenging. For the chemical vapor deposition process of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), we developed methodologies to record in-situ the near-surface structural and chemical evolution of Co catalysts with carbon permeation using an aberration-corrected environmental transmission electron microscope and the synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The nucleation and growth of SWCNTs were linked with the partial carbonization of catalysts and the alternating dissolvement-precipitation of carbon in catalysts. The dynamics of carbon atoms in catalysts brings deeper insight into the growth mechanism of SWCNTs and also sheds light on inferring mechanisms of more reactions. The methodologies developed here will find broad applications in studying catalytic and other processes.
Structural insights into TSC complex assembly and GAP activity on Rheb
Authors: Yang Huirong , Yu Zishuo , Chen Xizi , Li Jiabei , Li Ningning , Cheng Jiaxuan , Gao Ning , Yuan Hai-Xin , Ye Dan , Guan Kun-Liang , Xu Yanhui
Published: July 2020

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) integrates upstream stimuli and regulates cell growth by controlling the activity of mTORC1. TSC functions as a GTPase-activating protein (GAP) towards small GTPase Rheb and inhibits Rheb-mediated activation of mTORC1. Mutations in TSC genes cause tuberous sclerosis. In this study, the near-atomic resolution structure of human TSC complex reveals an arch-shaped architecture, with a 2:2:1 stoichiometry of TSC1, TSC2, and TBC1D7. This asymmetric complex consists of two interweaved TSC1 coiled-coil and one TBC1D7 that spans over the tail-to-tail TSC2 dimer. The two TSC2 GAP domains are symmetrically cradled within the core module formed by TSC2 dimerization domain and central coiled-coil of TSC1. Structural and biochemical analyses reveal TSC2 GAP-Rheb complimentary interactions and suggest a catalytic mechanism, by which an asparagine thumb (N1643) stabilizes γ-phosphate of GTP and accelerate GTP hydrolysis of Rheb. Our study reveals mechanisms of TSC assembly and GAP activity.
Triple null mutations in starch synthase SSIIa gene homoeologs lead to high amylose and resistant starch in hexaploid wheat
Authors: Schoen Adam , Joshi Anupama , Tiwari Vijay K , Gill Bikram S. , Rawat Nidhi
Published: July 2020

Background
Lack of nutritionally appropriate foods is one of the leading causes of obesity in the US and worldwide. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) provides 20% of the calories consumed daily across the globe. The nutrients in the wheat kernel come primarily from the starch composed of amylose and amylopectin. Resistant starch content, which is known to have significant human health benefits, can be increased by modifying starch synthesis pathways. Starch synthase enzyme SSIIa, also known as starch granule proteins isoform-1 (SGP-1), is integral to the biosynthesis of the branched and readily digestible glucose polymer amylopectin. In this study, a triple knockout mutant genotype (ssiia ∆ ABD) at the SSIIa locus was developed in elite hard red winter wheat variety ‘Jagger’.
Results
Knock-out mutations in SSIIa in the three genomes of wheat variety ‘Jagger’ were identified using TILLING. Subsequently, these loss-of function mutations on A, B, and D genomes were genetically combined to generate a triple knockout mutant genotype ssiia ∆ ABD. The ssiia ∆ ABD had an amylose content of 35.70% compared to 31.15% in Jagger, leading to ~ 118% increase in resistant starch in the ssiia ∆ ABD genotype of Jagger wheat. The single individual genome mutations also had various effects on starch composition.
Conclusions
This marks the first time a full null ssiia knockout has been achieved in a single elite cultivar background and shows the potential for developing nutritionally superior foods in a non-GM approach. Since all the mutants have been developed in an elite wheat cultivar, their adoption in production and supply will be easy.
Scalable thermoelectric fibers for multifunctional textile-electronics
Authors: Ding Tianpeng , Chan Kwok Hoe , Zhou Yi , Wang Xiaoqiao , Cheng Yin , Li Tongtao , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: July 2020

Textile electronics are poised to revolutionize future wearable applications due to their wearing comfort and programmable nature. Many promising thermoelectric (TE) wearables have been extensively investigated for green energy harvesting and pervasive sensors connectivity. However, the practical applications of the TE textile are still hindered by the current laborious p/n junctions assembly of limited scale and mechanical compliance. Here we develop a gelation extrusion strategy that demonstrates the viability of digitalized manufacturing of continuous p/n TE fibers at high scalability and process efficiency. With such alternating p/n-type TE fibers, multifunctional textiles are successfully woven to realize energy harvesting on curved surface, multi-pixel touch panel for writing and communication. Moreover, modularized TE garments are worn on a robotic arm to fulfill diverse active and localized tasks. Such scalable TE fiber fabrication not only brings new inspiration for flexible devices, but also sets the stage for a wide implementation of multifunctional textile-electronics.
Self-perception: Does Obesity Influence Quality of Life
Authors: Zalihic Amra , Barbaric Maja , Mabic Mirela , Palameta Marnela , Maric Ankica Mijic , Grubisic Ana Marija , Pivic Gordana , Markota Nina Pinjuh , Markotic Vedran
Published: July 2020

Background:The number of obese and overweight people around the world rapidly grows and takes on epidemic proportions. Obesity has become one of the leading causes of death although it can be prevented.The aim of this research is to determine the influence of body weight on quality of life and to investigate our patients' consciousness about their body weight and its impact on their quality of life. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted by interviewing 1067 respondents, using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Results: Out of 1067 patients, 684 were females. 65.5 % of patients had BMI ≥25 kg/m2. 21.7 % of 699 patients who had BMI ≥25 kg/m2 think that their increased body weight doesn’t affect their health, 27.9 % of respondents think that their overweight is unrelated to physical activity, 41.8 % of respondents have no problems purchasing the clothes due to their weight and 31.6 % of respondents with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 think that it doesn’t affect their quality of life. Conclusion: Quality of life is significantly better in respondents with BMI <25 kg/m2. The alarming result is that slightly less than half of respondents think that overweight doesn’t affect their health and don’t understand the seriousness of the problem.
Mechano-responsive hydrogen-bonding array of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer captures both strength and self-healing
Authors: Eom Youngho , Kim Seon-Mi , Lee Minkyung , Jeon Hyeonyeol , Hwang Sung Yeon , Park Jeyoung , Oh Dongyeop
Published: July 2020

Self-repairable materials strive to emulate curable and resilient biological tissue; however, their performance is currently insufficient for commercialization purposes because mending and toughening are mutually exclusive. Here, we report a carbonate-type thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer that self-heals at 35 °C and is as strong as footwear elastomers. This elastomer exhibits the highest tensile strength to date (43 MPa). Distinctively, it has abundant carbonyl groups in soft-segments and is fully amorphous with negligible phase separation due to poor hard-segment stacking. It operates in dual mechano-responsive mode through a reversible disorder-to-order transition of its hydrogen-bonding array; it heals when static and toughens when dynamic. In static mode, non-crystalline hard segments promote dynamic exchange of disordered carbonyl hydrogen-bonds for self-healing. The amorphous phase forms stiff crystals when stretched through a transition that orders inter-chain hydrogen bonding. The phase and strain fully return to the pre-stressed state after release to repeat healing process.
Dexamethasone and Lidocaine Suppress Eosinophilopoiesis from Umbilical Cord Blood Cells
Authors: Muraki Masato , Kita Hirohito , Gleich Gerald J
Published: July 2020

Background: Eosinophils play an important role in allergic inflammation . Glucocorticosteroids have been used as an anti-inflammatory medication for inflammatory diseases involving eosinophil infiltration. Likewise, lidocaine, a local anaesthetic, is used to treat certain patients with asthma, which is also an inflammatory disease. The goal of this study was to examine the effects of dexamethasone and lidocaine on eosinophil proliferation and differentiation using a model of human umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells (UCMC) cultured with IL-5.Methods: UCMC were cultured with IL-5 (5 ng/mL) for 4 weeks. The effects of dexamethasone and lidocaine on the number and morphology of eosinophilic cells were visualized with Wright-Giemsa and cyanide-resistant peroxidase stains . Moreover, the effect on eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) and eosinophil peroxidase (EPX) contents in cultured cells were evaluated using radioimmunoassay.Results: The number of eosinophilic cells and EDN and EPX content in cultured cells increased in a time-dependent manner in the presence of IL-5. Dexamethasone treatment slightly decreased the number of eosinophilic cells in one week, but this effect was lost in 2–4 weeks. Macrophages in cultured cells treated with dexamethasone contained more eosinophil granule proteins when UCMC were treated with dexamethasone. Both EDN and EPX content in cultured cells were reduced by dexamethasone. Lidocaine decreased the number of eosinophilic cells and reduced both EDN and EPX contents in cultured cells. Conclusions: These findings suggest that dexamethasone suppresses eosinophil maturation while lidocaine suppresses both production and maturation. Dexamethasone may also induce apoptosis of eosinophils.
Investigation of interaction between close and open types of SARS-Cov-2 spike glycoprotein with synthesized and natural Compounds as inhibitor; Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Jomhori Masume , Mosaddeghi Hamid
Published: July 2020

Purpose Viral diseases are increasingly endangering universal public health because of a shortage of successful antiviral therapies. The novel pandemic 2019 n-Cov2 disease (COVID-19) is recently identified as viral disorder triggered by a new type of coronavirus. This type of coronavirus binds to the host human receptors through the Spike glycoprotein(S) Receptor Binding Domain (RBD). Two types of spike protein have been identified in open and closed states in which the open type causes severe infection. Thus, this receptor is a significant target for antiviral drug design.Methods Totally 111*2 natural and synthetic compounds were chosen from the PubChem database as ligands. To recognize the ability of direct contact between ligands and the binding site of 2019 n-Cov 2 -ACE2 protein, we have docked all compounds to the protein using AutoDock Vina. The FaF3-Drugs, Pan Assay Intrusion Compounds (PAINS), absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME) and Lipinski's rules were used to evaluate the drug-like properties of the identified ligands. Antiviral compound prediction (AVC pred) also was used to assess antivirus properties.Results The results showed that seven ligands out of all had interactions with spike protein-angiotensin converting enzyme 2 binding site. We have found that six out of seven ligands show drug-like characteristics. We also found that the fluorophenyl and propane groups of ligands had the best interaction with the binding site of the protein.Conclusion Further, our results showed the ability of these ligands to prevent receptor binding of the spike protein SARS-CoV-2, so they would be considered as novel compounds of COVID-19 therapy drugs.
Postmortem Tissue Proteomics Reveals the Pathogenesis of Multiorgan Injuries of COVID-19
Authors: Qiu Yang , Wu Di , Ning Wanshan , Zhang Jiancheng , Shu Ting , Huang Chaolin , Chen Rong , Huang Muhan , Xu Jiqian , Yang Qingyu , Li Ruiting , Bie Yuanyuan , Yang Xiaobo , Mu Jingfang , Wang Yaxin , Han Yang , Zou Xiaojing , Ren Yujie , Pan Shangwen , Zhang Ding-Yu , Xue Yu , Shang You , Zhou Xi
Published: July 2020

Multiorgan injuries are a major complication of severe COVID-19; however, its pathogenesis is barely understood. Herein, we profiled the host responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection by performing quantitative proteomics of COVID-19 postmortem samples, and provided a comprehensive proteome map covering the protein alterations in eight different organs/tissues. Our results revealed that lung underwent the most abundant protein alterations mainly enriched in immune-/inflammation-related or morphology-related processes, while surprisingly, other organs/tissues exhibited significant protein alterations mainly enriched in processes related with organ movement, respiration, and metabolism. These results indicate that the major cause of lung injury was excessive inflammatory response, and subsequent intravascular thrombosis and pulmonary architecture/function destruction, while other organs/tissues were mainly injured by hypoxia and functional impairment. Therefore, our findings demonstrate the significant pathophysiological alternations of host proteins/pathways associated with multiorgan injuries of COVID-19, which provides invaluable knowledge about COVID-19-associated host responses and sheds light on the pathogenesis of COVID-19.