bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumor MHCII immunity requires in situ antigen presentation by cancer-associated fibroblasts.
Authors: Kerdidani Dimitra , Aerakis Emmanouil , Verrou Kleio , Stamoulis Petros , Goudevenou Katerina , Prados Alejandro , Tzaferis Christos , Vamvakaris Ioannis , Kaniaris Evangelos , Vachlas Konstantinos , Sepsas Evangelos , Potaris Konstantinos , Koutsopoulos Anastasios , Tsoumakidou Maria
Published: January 2021

A key unknown of the functional space in tumor immunity is whether physiologically relevant cancer antigen presentation occurs solely in draining lymph nodes versus tumors. Professional antigen presenting cells, i.e. the dendritic cells, are scarce and immature within tumors, greatly outnumbered by MHCII expressing non-hematopoietic cells, such as antigen-presenting cancer-associated fibroblasts (apCAFs). We hypothesized that after their exit from tumor-draining lymph nodes T cells depend on a second wave of antigen presentation provided in situ by structural cells. We show that dense apCAF regions in human lung tumors define hot immunological spots with increased numbers of CD4 T cells. The transcriptomic profile of human lung apCAFs aligned to that of pancreatic apCAFs across mice and humans and were both enriched for alveolar type II genes, suggesting an epithelial origin. Mechanistically, human apCAFs directly activated the TCRs of adjacent effector CD4 T cells and at the same time produced high levels of c1q, which acted on surface c1qbp on T cells to rescue them from apoptosis. Fibroblast-specific deletion of MHCII in mice impaired local MHCII immunity and accelerated tumor growth, while inducing c1qbp overexpression in adoptively transferred T cells expanded their numbers within tumors and reduced tumour burden. Collectively, our work shows that tumor T cell immunity post lymph node exit requires peripheral antigen presentation by a subset of CAFs and proposes a new conceptual framework upon which effective cancer immunotherapies can be built.
Rehospitalisation Risk Factors and Rates in Preterm Babies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Reed Robert , Morgan Andrei , Zeitlin Jennifer , Dechartres Agnès , Ancel Pierre-Yves , Khoshnood Babak
Published: January 2021

Objective: To systematically review evidence of risk factors and rates for rehospitalisations within one month of discharge for babies born at <37 weeks gestation.Design: Systematic review and meta-analysisData Sources: PubMed (including MEDLINE and life science journals), Web of Science and reference lists of included articles. Study Selection: Inclusion criteria were studies published in English or French between 01 January 2000 to 31 March 2019, recruiting from the year 2000 onwards evaluating risk factors for rehospitalisation within one month of discharge in preterm babies. Two reviewers independently selected relevant studies, extracted study details, baseline characteristics and results of risk factor analyses. Results: Across 14 included studies, five studied babies of <37 weeks gestation, seven studied late preterm babies (34-36 weeks gestation), and two studied very to moderate preterm babies (<34 weeks gestation). Important risk factors were low birth weight, respiratory morbidity, male sex and lower socioeconomic status in <37 week babies, and shorter length of stay among late preterm babies. Pooled rehospitalisation rates were 4.3% (95% CI 1.9-9.7) in <37 week babies and 6.6% (95% CI 3.2-13.4) in late preterm babies. There was high heterogeneity in risk factors included in analyses and studies often lacked clarity on variable measurement and confounder adjustment.Conclusion: We found evidence for clinical and socioeconomic risk factors, high heterogeneity and important limitations. Limitations included a lack of breadth in both the gestational age ranges and risk factors studied, as well as lack of clarity around variable measurement and confounder adjustment
Designated Server-Aided Revocable Identity-based Keyword Search on Lattice
Authors: Guo Ying , Meng Fei , Cheng Leixiao , Dong Xiaolei , Cao Zhenfu
Published: January 2021

Public key encryption scheme with keyword search (PEKS) is a promising technique supporting search on encrypted data without leaking any information about the keyword. In real applications, it's critical to find an effective revocation method to revoke users in multi-user cryptosystems, when user's secret keys are exposed.In this paper, we propose the first designated server-aided revocable identity-based encryption scheme with keyword search (dSR-IBKS) from lattice. The dSR-IBKS model requires each user to keep just one private key corresponding with his identity and does not need to communicate with the key generation center or the server during key updating. We have proved that our scheme can achieve chosen keyword indistinguishability in the standard model. In particular, our scheme can designate a unique tester to test and return the search results, therefore no other entity can guess the keyword embedded in the ciphertext by generating search queries and doing the test by itself. We provide a formal security proof of our scheme assuming the hardness of the learning with errors (LWE) problem on the standard model.
CSF PGRN May be Associated With Postoperative Delirium After Knee Replacement in Elderly Patients: The PNDABLE Study
Authors: Wang Bin , Sun Jie Xiu , Tao He , Deng Yuan Xi , Lin Nan Ya , Liu Hao fang , Lin Xu , Dong Rui , Liu Qiu Yu , Bi Yanlin
Published: January 2021

BackgroundPostoperative delirium (POD) represents a serious complication following anesthesia and surgical procedures for patients undergoing surgical intervention (1). Little is known about the mechanisms underlying similarities in the core features between postoperative delirium (POD) and progranulin (PGRN)-related cognitive disorders. We herein investigated the relationship between preoperative CSF PGRN concentration and POD occurrence in the Han Chinese patients undergoing unilateral total knee arthroplasty.MethodsWe conducted an observational, prospective, and 1:1 matched (on age older than 65, the unilateral total knee arthroplasty, American Society of Anesthesiologist’ (ASA) physical status, duration of surgery, and intraoperative bleeding) case-control study. POD cases and non-POD controls were selected from the overall cohort using Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). Delirium severity was measured by the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale (MDAS). CSF PGRN and core biomarkers were measured by ELISA using the microplate reader. The associations of CSF PGRN levels with POD risk and CSF core biomarkers were assessed.ResultsPOD incidence was 9.7% (53/545). There were significant differences in preoperative CSF PGRN concentration between POD patients and controls (P<0.001), and CSF PGRN levels increased with age, as demonstrated by a significantly positive correlation (r=0.796, P<0.001).CSF PGRN levels to increase with CAM scores and MDAS scores, as demonstrated by significantly positive correlations (r=0.693, P<0.001; r=0.590, P<0.001). There were positive associations of CSF PGRN with T-tau (β = -0.501, P < 0.001) and P-tau (β = -0.470, P < 0.001) and negative associations of CSF PGRN with Aβ1–42 (β = -0.576, P < 0.001), Aβ1–40 (β = -0.488, P < 0.001), Aβ42/p-tau (β = -0.422, P < 0.001), and Aβ42 / T- tau (β = -0.395, P < 0.001) in POD patients. The ROC curve analysis of PGRN showed that PGRN concentrations had high diagnostic value for POD.ConclusionsCSF PGRN may be associated with the POD. Aβ pathology is associated with a decrease in CSF PGRN in the absence of tau deposition and neurodegeneration, whereas tau pathology and neurodegeneration is associated with an increase in CSF PGRN.Clinical Trial Registrationwww.clinicaltrials.gov, identifier ChiCTR2000033439.
Chromosome Analysis and Postnatal Follow-Up of Fetuses With Abnormal Ultrasound Findings
Authors: Pan Lijuan , shi Meizhen , dai Lei , chen Kuifang , Cao chuanding , Zhang Zhenhui
Published: January 2021

Objective—To analyze the correlation between copy number variations (CNVs) and prenatal ultrasound abnormalities, characterize the CNVs in diverse prenatal phenotypes, and provide detailed follow-up results for prenatal diagnosis. Method—The results obtained in 1152 fetuses referred for chromosome testing due to different ultrasound anomalies were analyzed. CNV detection was performed by chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and copy number variation sequencing (CNV-seq). The postnatal outcomes of the fetuses were followed up.Result—Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 149 of 1152 pregnancies (12.9%), including 84 (7.3%) macroscopic and 65 (5.6%) submicroscopic anomalies. The highest proportion of chromosomal defects was found in fetuses with hydrops (38.5%), followed by fetuses with multiple abnormalities (32.1%). The most common CNV number variation was 22q11 deletion (0.7%), followed by 17q12 deletion (0.4%) and 15q11.2 deletion (0.4%). Bilateral hyperechogenic kidneys were identified in all fetuses with the 17q12 deletion, and all cases of 15q11.2 deletion were positive only for soft markers. On postnatal follow-up of 362 live births, 2 cases of esophageal atresia and 2 cases of craniosynostosis were found that were not accurately diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound.Conclusion—we identified chromosomal abnormalities in approximately one eight of the pregnancies with abnormal ultrasound findings. More emphasis should be placed on the improvement of prenatal detection of esophageal atresia and craniosynostosis.
Prediction of Gas Pressure in Thin Coal Seams in the Qinglong Coal Mine in Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhang Yongqiang , Wang Jilin , Wen Xiaobin
Published: January 2021

Thin coal seams in mines lack gas data; thus, gas outbursts of thin coal seams are difficult to prevent and control. In this study, a coal structure index, which is used to express the damage degree of coal, was estimated by logging curve. In accordance with the contour line of the floor of the coal seam, structural curvature was calculated to quantitatively express the complexity of the coal seam structure. Then, the relationships among the burial depth, thickness, coal structure index, structural curvature, with gas pressure of coal seam were analyzed. The gas pressure of coal seam of Nos. 22, 24, and 27 in the study area was predicted by multiple linear regression (MLR) and then was verified and analyzed. The deviation rate of the MLR method was 6.5%–19.7%, with an average of 13.0%. The average deviation rate between the predicted value and the measured value was 11.6%, except for measuring point of No. 2, which had a large deviation. Results show that the prediction accuracy of the above method is acceptable, and it has practical value in the prediction of gas pressure in thin coal seams without measured data. Results of the gas pressure prediction provide a basis for evaluating the risk of gas outbursts in thin coal seams.
The Gender-Specific Effect of Subcutaneous and Visceral Adipose Tissues on Cardiometabolic Risk in a Chinese Population
Authors: Wu Qiong , Chen Qiannan , Lv Qingguo , Xiaohui Sun , Dai Chen , Zhang Xuhui , Zhou Jiaqiang , Zhu Yimin
Published: January 2021

BackgroundPrevious studies demonstrated that visceral adipose tissue (VAT) contributed to increased risks for multiple cardiometabolic factors. However, the effects of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) were controversial. Furthermore, their effects were varied across sexes. The aim of this study was to examine the gender-specific effects of VAT, SAT, and VAT/SAT ratio on cardiometabolic risk factors. Methods1388 eligible subjects were recruited from a metabolic syndrome cross-sectional study in China. Areas of abdominal VAT and SAT were determined by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Multiple logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). ResultsSAT, VAT, and VAT/SAT ratio had significant age-adjusted, positive correlations with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), total triglycerides (TG), and inverse correlations with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) except VAT/SAT ratio with FPG in men. After additional controlled by BMI, consistent results were found in VAT and VAT/SAT ratio except for VAT with FPG, however, women showed significant inverse correlations between SAT and SBP, DBP and TG. Higher SAT exhibited a significantly reduced risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in women, the ORs in third quartile (Q3) and fourth quartile (Q4) group were 0.3 (95% CI: 0.13-0.74) and 0.19 (95% CI: 0.07-0.54). Men had higher ORs of VAT, VAT/SAT ratio than women in higher TG, low HDL-C, and hypertension while the ORs of VAT/SAT ratio in men were lower than women in T2D. Conclusions SAT exhibited a beneficial effect on T2D. VAT and VAT/SAT ratio linked increased risks for high TG, low HDL-C, and hypertension, with men had a more pronounced effect than women. Distribution of abdominal fat associates with its biological effects.
Skeletal Muscle Mass Is Associated With Erythropoietin Response in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Takata Tomoaki , Mae Yukari , Yamada Kentaro , Taniguchi Sosuke , Hamada Shintaro , Yamamoto Marie , Iyama Takuji , Isomoto Hajime
Published: January 2021

Background: Hyporesponsiveness to erythropoietin stimulating agent (ESA) is associated with poor outcome in patients with chronic kidney disease. Although ESA hyporesponsiveness and sarcopenia have common pathophysiological background, clinical evidence linking them are scarce. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between ESA responsiveness and skeletal muscle mass in hemodialysis patient. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed 70 patients on maintenance hemodialysis who were treated with ESA. ESA responsiveness was evaluated by erythropoietin resistance index (ERI), calculated as weekly dose of ESA divided by body weight and hemoglobin (IU/kg/week/dL), and weekly dose of ESA/hemoglobin (IU/week/dL). Dose of ESA was equivalated with epoetin β. Correlations between ESA responsiveness and clinical parameters including skeletal muscle mass were analyzed. Results: Among the 70 patients, ERI was positively correlated to age (p < 0.002), whereas negatively correlated to height (p < 0.001), body weight (p < 0.001), BMI (p < 0.001), skeletal muscle mass (p < 0.001), transferrin saturation (TSAT) (p = 0.049), and zinc (p = 0.006). In the multiple linear regression analysis, TSAT, zinc and skeletal muscle mass were associated with ERI and weekly ESA dose/hemoglobin. Conclusions: Skeletal muscle mass was the independent predictor for ESA responsiveness as well as TSAT and zinc. Sarcopenia is another target for the management of anemia in patients with hemodialysis.
Determinants of Low Birth Weight Deliveries: an Unmatched Case-control Study in Five Referral Hospitals in Western Area Urban District, Sierra Leone
Authors: Kargbo David Kabba , Nyarko Kofi , Sackey Samuel , Addo-Lartey Adolphina , Kenu Ernest , Anto Francis
Published: January 2021

Background: Each year, about 20 million deliveries are Low Birth Weight (LBW) with 96.5% occurring in developing countries. The prevalence of LBW in Sierra Leone is about 7% while the Western Area Urban (WAU) district reports 17.5%. This study sought to determine factors associated with LBW deliveries in five referral hospitals in the WAU district, Sierra Leone.Methods: A hospital-based unmatched 1:2 case-control study was conducted among mothers who delivered live singleton babies from November, 2019 to February, 2020 in five referral facilities. Antenatal care cards of mothers were reviewed and a pre-tested questionnaire also administered to them. The association between maternal socio-demographic, socio-economic, obstetric and lifestyle factors and LBW was assessed using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: A total of 438 mothers (146 cases and 292 controls), mean age: 24.2 (±5.8) and 26.1 (±5.5) years for cases and controls respectively participated in the study. Among mothers, 36.9 % (162/438) had no formal education, 25.8% (113/438) were unemployed and 29.7% (130/438) were unmarried. Multivariable analysis revealed that being unemployed (AoR = 2.52, 95% CI 1.16 - 5.49, p = 0.020), having anaemia during pregnancy (AoR = 3.88, 95% CI 1.90-7.90, p < 0.001), having less than two years inter-pregnancy interval (AoR = 2.53, 95% CI 1.11-5.73, p = 0.026), and smoking cigarettes during pregnancy (AoR = 4.36, 95% CI 1.94-9.80, p <0.001) were significantly associated with having LBW babies.Conclusion: Factors associated with LBW identified were unemployment, anaemia during pregnancy, < 2 years inter-pregnancy interval and cigarette smoking during pregnancy. Health care providers should screen and sensitize mothers on the risk factors of LBW during antenatal sessions.
Risk Factors of Empyema in Children in Suzhou, China
Authors: Li Li-jun , Gu Wen-jing , Wu Yin-yin , Chen Zheng-rong , Ji Wei
Published: January 2021

Background Respiratory tract infection is the most common disease in children, and pneumonia is the main disease. Pleural effusion is a common complication of pneumonia. Data show that up to 57% of hospitalized pneumonia patients have pleural effusion[1]. The parapneumonic pleural effusion (PPE) was divided into three categories: uncomplicated parapneumonic effusion (uppe), complex parapneumonic pleural effusion (CPPE) and parapneumonic empyema (PE)[2].Empyema is a kind of respiratory tract infectious disease with dangerous condition, rapid development and high mortality. Improper treatment can also develop into chronic empyema, and severe complications such as bronchopleural fistula, lung abscess and heart failure may occur. Therefore, timely identification of empyema, active and effective treatment and necessary invasive operation are very important to slow down the disease and reduce the mortality rate.Methods To analyzed the data of children with parapneumonic pleural effusion who were hospitalized in respiratory department of our hospital from January 2010 to December 2018. According to the results of pleural effusion, according to the light classification standard, they were divided into uncomplex parapneumonic effusion (UPPE group) and empyema group (PE group),Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors of empyema in children, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn.Results A total of 63 children were included in the study, including 20 cases in UPPE group and 43 cases in PE group. Univariate analysis showed that children in PE group were younger than those in UPPE group [2.8 (1.1,5.83) vs. 6.54 (2.94,9.0), P < 0.05], clinical manifestations were more prone to shortness of breath (60.46% vs. 8.961, P < 0.05), wheezing (32.55% vs. 5%, P < 0.05), and C-reactive protein (CRP) in laboratory examination was higher [114.76 (54.19160.94) vs. 49.79 (23.68, 84.48), P < 0.05];In cellular immunity, CD3 + was lower (55.31 ± 14.15 vs. 65.76 ± 11.43, P < 0.05), CD3 + CD4 + was lower (27.32 ± 9.58 vs. 34.77 ± 7.99, P < 0.05), CD3-CD19 + was higher (31.61 ± 13.24 vs. 21.98 ± 9.63, P < 0.05), and more susceptible to bacterial infection (44.18% vs. 10%, P < 0.01).Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that shortness of breath (or = 5.099,95% CI: 1.309-19.866) and elevated CRP (or = 1.013,95% CI: 1.001-1.026) were independent risk factors for empyema. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of logistic regression model was 0.707 and 0.716, respectively, with moderate diagnostic accuracy.Conclusions The children with parapneumonic pleural effusion with shortness of breath and CRP > 89.41mg/l should be aware of empyema.
Differences in the Associations Between Sociodemographic and Lifestyle Factors with Dietary Patterns in Mexican Men and Women.
Authors: Solís Cecilia Isabel Oviedo , Hernández-Alcaraz César , Sánchez-Ortíz Néstor Alonso , López-Olmedo Nancy , Jáuregui Alejandra , Barquera Simón
Published: January 2021

Background. Diet is one of the leading risk factors for developing non-communicable diseases and is related to sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, including sex. We aimed to investigate the associated factors of dietary patterns among adults living in Mexico City by sex. Methods. We used data from a city-wide representative survey conducted between May and June 2015 in Mexico City (n=1,142). Self-reported information about sociodemographic and lifestyle variables was collected. Dietary information was collected using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Dietary patterns were constructed by cluster analysis. We used sex-specific multivariable multinomial logistic models to assess the association of demographic and lifestyle factors with dietary patterns using. Results. Three dietary patterns were identified: basic, prudent and fast food. Among men and women, higher school attainment was associated with a lower relative probability of having a basic rather than prudent dietary pattern (women: RRR= 0.8, 95% CI: 0.8, 0.9; men: RRR= 0.8, 95% CI:0.7, 0.9). Compared to single men, divorced or separated men (RRR=3.8, 95% CI: 1.3, 11.2) and those living with a partner (RRR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.1, 6.0) had a higher relative probability of consuming a fast food dietary pattern than the prudent one. Men living with a partner (RRR=3.0, 95% CI:1.1, 8.6) or working long shifts (RRR=3.8, 95% CI: 1.3, 11.1) had a higher probability of consuming a basic pattern rather than a prudent one compared to peers. Conclusion. Differences by sex in the associations between sociodemographic factors and dietary patterns may be due to gender roles. Public policies and programs should consider the gender perspective to accomplish positive results in both men and women.
The Coordination and Jumps along C4 Photosynthesis Evolution in the Genus Flaveria
Authors: Lyu Amy , Gowik Udo , Kelly Steve , Covshoff Sarah , Clayton Harmony , Hibberd Julian , Sage Rowan , Ludwig Martha , Gane Gane , Westhoff Peter , Zhu Xin-Guang
Published: January 2021

C4 photosynthesis is a remarkable complex trait, elucidations of the evolutionary trajectory of C4 photosynthesis from its ancestral C3 pathway can help us better understand the generic principles of the evolution of complex trait and guide the engineering of C3 crops for higher yields. Here, we used the genus Flaveria that contains C3, C3-C4, C4-like and C4 species as a system to study the evolution of C4 photosynthesis. We first mapped transcript abundance, protein sequence, and morphological features to the phylogenetic tree of the genus Flaveria, and calculated the evolutionary correlation of different features; we then predicted the relative changes of ancestral nodes of those features to illustrate the key stages during the evolution of C4 photosynthesis. We found that gene expression and protein sequence showed consistent modification pattern along the phylogenetic tree. High correlation coefficients ranging from 0.46 to 0.9 among gene expression, protein sequence and morphology were observed, and the greatest modification of those different features consistently occurred at the transition between C3-C4 species and C4-like species. Our results show highly coordinated changes in gene expression, protein sequence and morphological features, which support an obviously evolutionary jump during the evolution of C4 metabolism.
Increased Mucosal IL-12 Expression is Associated with Relapse of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Takagi Tomohisa , Mizushima Katsura , Kajiwara-Kubota Mariko , Kashiwagi Saori , Toyokawa Yuki , Tanaka Makoto , Hotta Yuma , Kamada Kazuhiro , Ishikawa Takeshi , Konishi Hideyuki , Kishimoto Mitsuo , Naito Yuji , Itoh Yoshito
Published: January 2021

Background: The role of IL-12/23 in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) is unclear. We analyzed mucosal IL-12/23 expression and its relationship with endoscopic severity, histological activity, and UC relapse.Methods: Rectal biopsies were collected from 70 UC patients with clinical remission. IL-12, IL-23, IFN-g, IL-17A, and IL-17F mRNA expression was measured by real-time PCR. Endoscopic severity and histological activity were evaluated using the Mayo endoscopic subscore (MES) and the Geboes score, respectively. Results: The longest follow-up period was 51 months. Thirty-four patients relapsed during the study period. Samples from these subsequently relapsed patients formed the “relapse” group, while those from patients that did not relapse formed the “remission” group. IL-12 (P=0.0003) and IL-23 (P=0.014) mRNA expression was significantly higher in the relapse than the remission group. Expression of IL-23 (P=0.015) but not IL-12 (P=0.374) was correlated with MES. However, in patients with an MES of 0 and 1, IL-12 expression was statistically higher in the relapse than the remission group (P=0.0015, P=0.0342). IL-12 and IL-23 expression did not vary significantly between histologically active and inactive mucosa; both were higher in histologically inactive patients in the remission group (IL-12: P=0.0002, IL-23: P=0.046).Conclusions: Rectal IL-12 and IL-23 expression was elevated in the relapse group, but IL-12 was more strongly associated with UC relapse, irrespective of endoscopic severity and histological activity. Mucosal IL-12 was elevated in patients with deep mucosal healing. Our results suggest an important role of IL-12 in UC pathogenesis and the molecular mechanism of UC relapse.
Application of the Health Action Process Approach Model for Improving Excessive Internet use Behaviors Among Rural Adolescents in China: A School-Based Intervention Pilot Study
Authors: Tang Chengmeng , Raat Hein , Yan Mingxia , Zhang Qiang , Li Kehan , Jiang Min , Tang Wanjie , Chen Jiayi , Zhao Ying , Liu Qiaolan
Published: January 2021

Objective: There are few studies regarding Internet use behaviors of Chinese rural adolescents based on behavioral theory. The aim of this study is to examine the applicability and effectiveness of the health action process approach model (HAPA) in the intervention of excessive Internet use behaviors among rural adolescents in China.Methods: 327 participants who met the excessive Internet use criteria were involved in this study. Four interventions based on the HAPA model were conducted during 2015-2017. The structural equation model (SEM) was applied to fit the HAPA model.Results: The rate of average daily time spent online on weekends more than four hours dropped from 57.2% to 39.1% (P<0.001). The rate of daily game time more than two hours decreased from 51.1% to 35.2% (P<0.001). The result of SEM showed that both the applicability and effectiveness of the HAPA model were well in the intervention of excessive Internet use behaviors with good fitted indicators (χ2/df＝2.066，GFI＝0.889，CFI＝0.938，TLI＝0.928，IFI＝0.938，RMSEA＝0.057).The direct and indirect effects of the main pathways in HAPA model were statistically significant (P <0.05). The comparison analysis of HAPA model variables identified that outcome expectancy, intention, maintenance self-efficacy had been improved significantly after interventions.Conclusion: The intervention measures based on the HAPA model can effectively improve excessive Internet use behaviors of Chinese rural adolescents, mainly through strengthen outcome expectancy, intention, and maintenance self-efficacy.
Neurodevelopment in Relation to Breastfeeding - Experiences Among Hungarian Preterm Infants at 12 Months of Corrected Age: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Szele Anna Szabina , Nagy Beáta Erika
Published: January 2021

BackgroundPreterm and low birth weight infants are at higher risk of neurodevelopmental outcomes. Breastfeeding offers several beneficial aspects for them both physically and psychologically. This study aimed to describe the average neurodevelopmental outcomes of preterm infants and examine the associations between neurodevelopment and breastfeeding among Hungarian preterm infants at 12 months of corrected age.MethodsOne hundred fifty-four preterm infants with low birth weight (< 2500 g) and gestational age < 37 weeks and their mothers living in Hungary were participated in this cross-sectional examination. Bayley-III Screening Test (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Screening Test, Third Edition) was administered to measure cognitive, language, and motor skills of infants. Breastfeeding data was obtained through parental anamnesis. To analyze data Mann-Whitney tests and Spearmen's rank correlation test were used to.ResultsConcerning risk of developmental delay, receptive and expressive language and fine motor subscales were the lowest. Examination of the duration of breastfeeding and neurodevelopmental performance identified higher neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants who were breastfed, significantly higher cognitive (U = 2047.5, p = 0.023) and fine motor (U = 2096.0, p = 0.037) skills were found. We identified significant positive correlations between the duration of breastfeeding and cognitive, expressive language and fine motor skills.ConclusionsBreastfed infants had better cognitive and fine motor skills at 12 months of corrected age, but we cannot unambiguously conclude that the duration of breastfeeding had a sole positive effect on the neurodevelopment at 12 months of corrected age. With the Bayley-III Screening Test we could identify the most affected skills in terms of risk for developmental delay, which are needed to improve.
Inhibition of Switch-on Fluorescence of Fluorochrome on Loading TiO2 with Gold
Authors: K.I Dhanalekshmi , Jiang Chengchen , K Jayamoorthy , P Magesan , Ujam Oguejiofo T. , Zhang Xiang
Published: January 2021

Gold loaded TiO2 nanoparticles have been synthesized and characterized by powder XRD, HR-TEM, and EDX analysis. The binding interaction of fluorescent sensor 5-amino-2-mercaptobenzimidazole (fluorochrome) with TiO2 and gold loaded TiO2 nanoparticles has been discussed herein. The interaction of fluorochrome with TiO2 and gold loaded TiO2 nanoparticles has been studied by UV-visible, fluorescence, and FT-IR spectral techniques. The fluorescence emission occurs at 421 nm and this has been selectively enhanced by TiO2 nano semiconductor. This technique is sensitive to detect and estimate TiO2 nano semiconductor at a micromolar level. This switch-on fluorescence is suppressed when it is loaded with gold. The strong adsorption of fluorochrome over the surface of nano semiconductor results in the electron transfer between fluorochrome and nano semiconductor. Further, the binding site of nano semiconductor with fluorochrome has been studied theoretically by using the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP). The results show higher electron density at the azomethine nitrogen atom.
Theileria equi claudin like apicomplexan microneme protein contains neutralization-sensitive epitopes and interacts with components of the equine erythrocyte membrane skeleton
Authors: Onzere Cynthia , Fry Lindsay , Bishop Richard , Silva Marta , Bastos Reginaldo , Knowles Donald , Suarez Carlos
Published: January 2021

Theileria equi (T. equi) is a widely distributed apicomplexan parasite that causes severe hemolytic anemia in equid species. There is currently no effective vaccine for control of the parasite and understanding the mechanism that T. equi utilizes to invade host cells may be crucial for vaccine development. Unlike most apicomplexan species studied to date, the role of micronemes in T. equi invasion of host cells is unknown. We therefore assessed the role of the T. equi claudin-like apicomplexan microneme protein (CLAMP) in the invasion of equine erythrocytes as a first step towards understanding the role of this organelle in the parasite. Our findings show that CLAMP is expressed in the merozoite and intra-erythrocytic developmental stages of T. equi and in vitro neutralization experiments suggest that the protein is involved in erythrocyte invasion. Proteomic analyses indicate that CLAMP interacts with the equine erythrocyte α-and β- spectrin chains in the initial stages of T. equi invasion and maintains these interactions while also associating with the anion-exchange protein, tropomyosin 3, band 4.1 and cytoplasmic actin 1 after invasion. Additionally, serological analyses show that T. equi-infected horses mount robust antibody responses against CLAMP indicating that the protein is immunogenic and therefore represents a potential vaccine candidate.
Energy Budget and Carbon Footprint in Ridge–Furrow With Plastic Film Mulch Strategy Under a Wheat–Maize System in Dry Semi–Humid Areas
Authors: Li Changjiang , Li Shuo
Published: January 2021

The well–irrigated planting strategy (WI) consumes a large amount of energy and exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions, endangering the sustainable agricultural production. This work aims to estimate the economic benefit, energy budget and carbon footprint of a wheat–maize double cropping system under conventional rain–fed flat planting (control), ridge–furrows with plastic film mulching on the ridge (RP), and the WI in dry semi-humid areas of China. Significantly higher wheat and maize grain yields and net returns were achieved under RP than those under the control, while a visible reduction was only found for wheat grain yields when compared with the WI. The ratio of benefit: cost under RP was also higher by 10.5% than that under the control in the first rotation cycle, but did not differ with those under WI. The net energy output and carbon output followed the same trends with net returns, but the RP had the largest energy use efficiency, energy productivity carbon efficiency and carbon sustainability among treatments. Therefore, the ridge-furrow planting with plastic film mulch over the ridge was an effective substitution for well–irrigated planting strategy for achieving sustained agricultural development in dry semi-humid areas.
The association between bone mineral density and postoperative drainage volume following primary total knee arthroplasty: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Peerakul Yuthasak , Leeyaphan Jirapong , Rojjananukulpong Karn
Published: January 2021

Background

The prevalence of osteoporosis in patients who undergo a primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is increasing. Low bone mineral density (BMD) is related to unfavorable outcomes following TKA such as migration of uncemented tibia components. Postoperative blood loss in TKA is an important complication. Non-modifying predicting factors for postoperative blood loss in primary TKA patients need further elucidation. Studies on the association between BMD and blood loss after TKA are limited. We aimed to demonstrate the relationship between BMD and postoperative drainage volume following primary TKA.
Method:

A cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2014 and August 2020. A total of 119 primary varus osteoarthritis knees with BMD results were included in the study. Patients with secondary causes for osteoporosis were excluded.
Result

The prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis diagnosed by the lowest T-score among two sites (hip and lumbar spine) were 55.5% and 28.6%, respectively. The median postoperative drainage volume of participants in the normal total hip BMD group and the normal trochanter BMD group was higher than that of patients in the low total hip BMD group and the low trochanter BMD group (285.0 ml vs. 230.0 ml, P = 0.003; 282.5 ml vs. 240.0 ml, P = 0.013, respectively). Multivariate regression analyses showed that operative time, spinal anesthesia, and normal total hip BMD status were significant predictive factors associated with increased postoperative drainage volume (P = 0.014, 0.022, 0.013, respectively). No association was identified between the lumbar spine BMD status and postoperative drainage volume.
Conclusion

The relationship between BMD and postoperative blood loss in primary TKA was identified in this study. Normal total hip BMD was found to be associated with an increased postoperative drainage volume after primary TKA compared with low BMD.
Oxygen Extraction Ratio to Identify Patients at Increased Risk of Intradialytic Hypotension.
Authors: Rotondi Silverio , Tartaglione Lida , De Martini Natalia , Bagordo Domenico , Caissutti Sara , Pasquali Marzia , Muci Maria Luisa , Mazzaferro Sandro
Published: January 2021

Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is a hemodynamic phenomenon recently associated with decreased blood oxygen saturation (SO2). The ratio between arterial SO2 (SaO2) and central venous SO2 (ScvO2) or Oxygen Extraction Ratio (OER), which represents a roughly estimate of the amount of oxygen claimed by peripheral tissues, might be used to estimate haemodialysis (HD) related hypoxic stress. Aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the relationship between OER increments during dialysis sessions (ΔOER) and episodes of IDH. Methods. We enrolled chronic HD patients with permanent central venous catheter (CVC) and no fistula, in whom ScvO2 measurement is at hand. OER ([(SaO2−ScvO2)/SaO2]×100) was measured in three consecutive HD sessions (HD OER sessions) before HD, after 15’, 30’ and 60’ minutes and at the end of HD. Then, a one-year follow-up was planned to record the number of IDH episodes. Results. In the 28 enrolled patients (age 74±2.6 years), during 12±1.2 months of follow up, incidence of IDH was 3.6%. We divided patients into two groups, above or below the median value of ΔOER at the end of HD, which was 36%. In these groups, the average incidence of IDH was 7% and 2% respectively (p<0.01), while OER values before HD were not different. Notably, in the high ΔOER group the OER increment was evident since after 15’ and was significantly higher than in the low ∆OER group (∆OER-15’ = 19±3.0% vs. 9.0±3.0%; p<0.05). By comparison, blood volume changes overlapped in the two groups (average change -9±0.8%). Conclusion. Values of ∆OER >19% after only 15’ of HD treatment or >36% at the end of the session characterize patients with higher rates of hypotension. Intradialytic ∆OER, a parameter of tissue hypoxic stress, identifies more fragile patients at greater risk of IDH.
Physicochemical Properties and Structural Dynamics of Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite [NH3(CH2)3NH3]ZnX4 (X=Cl and Br) Crystals
Authors: Lim Ae Ran , Kim Sun Ha , Joo Yong Lak
Published: January 2021

The physical properties of the organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite crystals having the formula [NH3(CH2)3NH3]ZnX4 (X=Cl and Br) were investigated. The phase transition temperatures (TC; 268 K for Cl and 272 K for Br) of the two crystals bearing different halogen atoms in their skeletons were determined through differential scanning calorimetry. The thermodynamic properties of the two crystals were investigated through thermogravimetric analysis. The structural dynamics, particularly the role of the [NH3(CH2)3NH3] cation, were probed through 1H and 13C magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy as a function of temperature. The 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts did not show any changes near TC. In addition, the 1H spin-lattice relaxation time (T1ρ) varied with temperature, whereas the 13C T1ρ values remained nearly constant at different temperatures. The T1ρ values of the atoms in [NH3(CH2)3NH3]ZnCl4 were higher than those in [NH3(CH2)3NH3]ZnBr4. The observed differences in the structural dynamics obtained from the chemical shifts and T1ρ values of the two compounds can be attributed to the differences in the bond lengths and halogen atoms. These findings can provide important insights or potential applications of these crystals.
Drought Impact on Carbon Assimilation of A Zelkova Serrata Plantation
Authors: Chen Chung-I , Wang Ya-Nan , Lin Heng-Hsun , Wang Ching-Wen , Yu Jui-Chu , Chen Yung-Chih
Published: January 2021

Background: As anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions intensify global climate change, plantations have become an important tool to mitigate atmospheric CO2. Our aim in this study was to estimate carbon assimilation and clarify the impact of environmental factors on the photosynthesis of Zelkova serrata, an important plantation species, which extensively planted in low altitude of East Asia.Results: We measured monthly gas exchange parameters and leaf area to estimate carbon assimilation. The results showed that gas exchange was significantly affected by vapor pressure deficit and temperature, especially in the dry season, and both photosynthetic rate and carbon assimilation decreased. However, drought led to lower daytime assimilation and higher night-time respiration, which caused a 43% decrease in carbon assimilation. Additionally, the poor site quality and environmental stress may impact the growth and carbon assimilation of this species.Conclusions: Z. serrata may not be suitable for planting in a tropical monsoon climate area. Therefore, the effects of extreme weather on the forest carbon budget may be stronger in the future. Leaf area showed seasonal variation and serious defoliation caused by a typhoon in the summer. The monthly leaf assimilation rate was 0.88–4.17 μmol CO2 m-2 s-1, which was estimated to assimilate 3.50 Mg C ha-1 yr-1 in the study area.
Cordycepin Confers long-term neuroprotection via inhibiting neutrophil infiltration and neuroinflammation after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Wei Pengju , Huang Yichen , Luo Chen , Misilimu Dilidaer , Wen Huimei , Jin Peng , Li Chuhua , Zhang Wenting , Gong Ye , Gao Yanqin
Published: January 2021

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) secondary injury, especially white matter injury (WMI), is highly sensitive to neuroinflammation, which further leads to unfavored long-term outcomes. Although the cross-talk between the three active events, immune cell infiltration, BBB breakdown, and proinflammatory microglial/macrophage polarization, play a role in the vicious cycle, its mechanisms are not fully understood. It has been reported that cordycepin, an extract from cordyceps militaris, can inhibit TBI-induced neuroinflammation although the long-term effects of cordycepin remain unknown. Here, we report our investigation of cordycepin’s long-term neuroprotective function and its underlying immunological mechanism.
Methods

TBI mice model was established with a controlled cortical impact (CCI) method. Cordycepin was intraperitoneally administered twice daily for a week. Neurological outcomes were assessed by behavioral tests, including grid walking test, cylinder test, wire hang test, and rotarod test. Immunofluorescence staining, transmission electron microscopy, and electrophysiology recording were employed to assess histological and functional lesions. Quantitative-PCR and flow cytometry were used to detect neuroinflammation. The tracers of Sulfo-NHS-biotin and Evans blue were assessed for the Blood-brain barrier (BBB) leakage. Western blot and gelatin zymography were used to analyze protein activity or expression. Neutrophil depletion in vivo was performed via using Ly6G antibody intraperitoneal injection.
Results

Cordycepin administration ameliorated long-term neurological deficits and reduced neuronal tissue loss in TBI mice. Meanwhile, the long-term integrity of white matter was also preserved, which was revealed in multiple dimensions, such as morphology, histology, ultrastructure, and electrical conductivity. Cordycepin administration inhibited microglia/macrophage pro-inflammatory polarization and promoted anti-inflammatory polarization after TBI. BBB breach was attenuated by cordycepin administration at 3d after TBI. Cordycepin suppressed the activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and the neutrophil infiltration at 3d after TBI. Moreover, neutrophil depletion provided a cordycepin-like effect, and cordycepin administration united with neutrophil depletion didn’t show a benefit of superposition.
Conclusions

The long-term neuroprotective function of cordycepin was via suppressing neutrophil infiltration, thereby preserving BBB integrity and changing microglia/macrophage polarization. These findings provide significant clinical potentials to improve the quality of life for TBI patients.
The Role of Angioembolization In the Management of Blunt Renal Injuries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Liguori Giovanni , Rebez Giacomo , Salonia Andrea
Published: January 2021

Background
Non-operative management is established for low-grade (I-III) blunt renal injuries but it is getting increasingly popular even in high grade BRI thanks to angioembolization of active bleedings. To date a systematic review to assess the role of Angioembolization (RAE) in Blunt Renal Injuries (BRI) is not yet present in the literature.
Methods
a literature search was performed, 169 unilateral BRI were included; 124 high grade BRI (92 grade IV and 32 grade V renal injuries, respectively). Most common indication was hemodynamically stable patients with BRI grades II to IV and active contrast extravasation.
Results
Overall, the clinical success rate of RAE was 90% (range 73% − 100%). The rate of re-do embolization was 4.5% gaining a 100% success rate with a second attempt. Some authors reported successful RAE even in patients with grade V BRI, without major abdominal organ injuries and no pelvic fractures. RAE was performed also as adjunctive therapy prior to surgery. Most used agent was micro coils. Nephrectomy rate was 5.8%, mortality rate was 3.2%.
Conclusions
A multidisciplinary approach between interventional radiology and urology should be pursued to make every effort to perform endovascular therapy unless there are multiple visceral injuries or renal pedicle avulsion or expanding retroperitoneal hematoma necessitating surgery.
Losing Weight; The Experience of Patients With End Stage Kidney Disease: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Freeman Johanne , Konradsen Hanne , Lindhard Kristine , Hansen Ditte
Published: January 2021

Background: Patients with end-stage kidney disease need renal replacement therapy to ensure survival. Kidney transplant is superior to dialysis due to better survival. Patients with obesity cannot be approved for kidney transplant until they lose sufficient weight. Obesity may complicate the surgical procedure, and the risk of graft loss increases with increasing body mass index. Attaining appropriate weight loss is often a hindrance for transplantation for the patient with obesity, and further knowledge of minds, thoughts and attitudes are necessary to better help these patients to lose weight.Methods: Semi-structured interviews with patients who needed to lose weight to be approved to the kidney transplant list at a Danish hospital, were recorded and transcribed. From patients’ responses, we identified descriptive categories using a phenomenological approach. Factors affecting outcomes were derived reflexively from these categories.Results: Ten interviews were analyzed. Experiences of obesity and weight-loss attempts were described across 4 categories; (i) Restrictions and exhaustion, (ii) Hope and hopelessness, (iii) Support and self-discipline, and (iv) Motivation based on severity.Conclusions: Patients with obesity that hinders kidney transplantation need additional help with the dietary restrictions that follow a kidney disease. They need bridging between a kidney-friendly diet and a sustainable diet that will ensure weight-loss. These patients also express how they do not want to be alone in their weight-loss battle. They are looking for help, camaraderie and support to obtain weight-loss.