bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microendoscopy-assisted extraforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for treating single-level spondylodesis
Authors: Shibayama Motohide , Li GuangHua , Zhu LiGuo , Ito Zenya , Ito Fujio
Published: January 2021

Background: Lumbar interbody fusion is a standard technique for treating degenerative lumbar disorders involving instability. Due to its invasiveness, a minimally invasive technique, extraforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (ELIF), was introduced. On surgically approaching posterolaterally, the posterior muscles and spinal canal are barely invaded. Despite its theoretical advantage, ELIF is technically demanding and has not been popularised. Therefore, we developed a microendoscopy-assisted ELIF (mELIF) technique which was designed to be safe and less invasive. Here, we aimed to report on the surgical technique and clinical results.Methods: Using a posterolateral approach similar to that of lateral disc herniation surgery, a tubular retractor, 16 or 18 mm in diameter, was placed at the lateral aspect of the facet joint. The facet joint was partially excised, and the disc space was cleaned. A cage and local bone graft were inserted into the disc space. All disc-related procedures were performed under microendoscopy. The spinal canal was not invaded. Bilateral percutaneous screw-rod constructs were inserted and fixed. Results: Fifty-five patients underwent the procedure. The Oswestry Disability Index and visual analogue scale scores greatly improved. Over 90% of the patients obtained excellent or good results based on Macnab’s criteria. There were neither major adverse clinical effects nor the need for additional surgery.Conclusions: mELIF is minimally invasive because the spinal canal and posterior muscles are barely invaded. It produces good clinical results with fewer complications. This technique can be applied in most single-level spondylodesis cases, including those involving L5/S1 disorders.
Validation of bioactive components from traditional Chinese medicine for lifespan extension
Authors: Chen Chin-Chuan , Wang Tong-Hong , Tseng Wei-Che , Leu Yann-Lii , Chen Chi-Yuan , Lee Wen-Chih , Chi Ying-Chih , Cheng Shu-Fang , Lai Chun-Yu , Kuo Cheng-Hsin , Yang Shu-Ling , Shen Jiann-Jong , Yang Sien-Hung , Feng Chun-Hao , Wu Chih-Ching , Hwang Tsong-Long , Wang Chia-Jen , Wang Shu-Huei
Published: January 2021

In long history of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), some single herb and complex formulas have been recorded to increase lifespan in TCM pharmacopeia. However, the mechanism of these TCMs increasing lifespan is insufficient. Here, we collected a list of TCMs from pharmacopeias for lifespan extension. By utilizing the mother enrichment program (MEP), we systematically screened these TCMs and identified a single TCM herb, Psoralea corylifolia, that increases lifespan in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Next, twenty-two pure compounds were isolated from P. corylifolia, and one of the compounds, corylin, was shown to extend the replicative lifespan (RLS) by targeting the Gtr1 protein. Furthermore, in HUVECs, the RNA sequencing data showed that corylin ameliorated cellular senescence. Finally, corylin reduced the risk of death of mice fed a high-fat diet. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that corylin has long-term benefits for longevity and could be a potential treatment for age-related disease.
Risk factors associated with mortality in COVID-19 patients: a retrospective case control study
Authors: Mahmood Majid , Khurshid Sana , Khan Muhammad , Nadeem Saneeza , Ilyas Noor-ul-ain , Hasrat Muhammad , Ahmad Khawaja , Mehmood Ansar
Published: January 2021

Background: COVID-19, a novel disease, appeared in December 2019 in China and rapidly spread across the world. This study aimed to investigate and find out the factors responsible for death of COVID patients by comparing with recovered patients. Methodology: A retrospective, case control study was conducted from August 2020 to October 2020 in three hospitals of Poonch division, AJK. Total 192 patients who have been admitted in a hospital with symptoms of COVID-19 and positive PCR test, including 152 recovered from the infection and 40 died, were enrolled in the study. Data of age, gender, occupation, body weight, temperature, diabetic status, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, lungs disorder, kidney disorder, tuberculosis, cancer and smoking was collected for all patients and entered in a datasheet. Different factors were than compared statistically between recovered and dead patients. Results: Died patients had significantly higher age (P=0.000) and body temperature (P=0.000) as compared to recovered patients. Heart disorder, lungs disorder, older age, diabetes and hypertension were found to be significant risk factors of the death in COVID-90 patients. Mortality rate was found to be significantly higher in patients with heart disorder (P=0.000; OR=5.07), lungs disorder (P=0.000; OR=4.0), older age (P=0.000; OR=3.44), diabetes (P=0.001; OR=2.49) and hypertension (P=0.024; OR=1.84) as compared to the COVID-19 patients without these factors. Mortality rate was also higher for the patients with smoking and some kidney disorder but not significant (P=0.170 and 0.191 respectively). Among the died patients, 39 (97.5%) had 1 (2.5%) or more than one of the risk factors were present while 1 patient had no obvious risk factor.Conclusion: The study concludes that heart disorder, lungs disorder, older age, diabetes and hypertension are significant risk factors of the death in COVID-90 patients. More the risk factors accumulate in a person, higher will be the risk of death.
IFITM proteins promote SARS-CoV-2 infection and are targets for virus inhibition
Authors: Bozzo Caterina Prelli , Nchioua Rayhane , Volcic Meta , Krüger Jana , Heller Sandra , Stuerzel Christina , Kmiec Dorota , Conzelmann Carina , Müller Janis , Zech Fabian , Schütz Desiree , Koepke Lennart , Braun Elisabeth , Groß Rüdiger , Wettstein Lukas , Weil Tatjana , Weiss Johanna , Sauter Daniel , Münch Jan , Diofano Federica , Goffinet Christine , Catanese Alberto , Schön Michael , Boeckers Tobias , Stenger Steffen , Sato Kei , Just Steffen , Kleger Alexander , Sparrer Konstantin , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: January 2021

Interferon-induced transmembrane proteins (IFITMs 1, 2 and 3) are thought to restrict numerous viral pathogens including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronaviruses (SARS-CoVs). However, most evidence comes from single-round pseudovirus infection studies of cells that overexpress IFITMs. Here, we verified that artificial overexpression of IFITMs blocks SARS-CoV-2 infection. Strikingly, however, endogenous IFITM expression was essential for efficient infection of genuine SARS-CoV-2 in human lung cells. Our results indicate that the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein interacts with IFITMs and hijacks them for efficient viral entry. IFITM proteins were expressed and further induced by interferons in human lung, gut, heart and brain cells. Intriguingly, IFITM-derived peptides and targeting antibodies inhibited SARS-CoV-2 entry and replication in human lung cells, cardiomyocytes and gut organoids. Our results show that IFITM proteins are important cofactors for SARS-CoV-2 infection of human cell types representing in vivo targets for viral transmission, dissemination and pathogenesis and suitable targets for therapeutic approaches.
A Fibular Notch Approach for the Treatment of Ankle Fractures Involving the Distal Tibial Plafond
Authors: Liu Tong , Cheng Yiheng , Qu Wenqing
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND: Although efficacy is related to many factors, the surgical approach is one of the most important intervention factors for complex ankle fractures. Ankle fractures involving the distal tibial plafond frequently present a surgical challenge in choosing which incisions will be best for surgical treatment. Here we present an innovative fibular notch approach for the treatment of some specific ankle fractures and present a series of patients with either functional or radiographic outcomes.METHODS: Twenty two patients with distal tibial plafond fractures with concomitant fibular and distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injuries were treated through a fibular notch approach in this retrospective study. The details of the surgical technique were reviewed from the operative notes. Relevant data were reviewed from the medical records. The quality of fractures and syndesmosis reduction was examined using CT scans, and lateral stability of the ankle was assessed by physical examination and stress radiographs. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS) score was implemented for clinical functional assessment.RESULTS: All surgeries were successfully performed via the fibular notch approach as the primary approach with excellent intraoperative visualization. Postoperative radiography revealed satisfying restoration of all fractures and syndesmosis. All fractures healed with an average time of 17.3±3.6 weeks. Mild posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) was present in 4 patients. The average AOFAS score was 88.8 at the last followup.CONCLUSIONS: The fibular notch approach is a safe and reliable approach for the treatment of specific ankle fractures involving the distal tibial plafond. This approach provides excellent direct visualization of the fragments and articular surface without significantly increasing iatrogenic injuries. Satisfactory radiographic and clinical results were observed, and further clinical and anatomical studies are recommended to ascertain the feasibility of this approach in the treatment of complex distal tibial fractures.
The Efficacy and Safety of Anti-bodies Targeting PD-1 for Treatment in Advanced Esophageal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Lu Yao , Guan Lulu , Xu Mengli , Wang Feng
Published: January 2021

Background: A novel therapy based on programed death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors has been proved to be effective in advanced esophageal cancer. This article is a meta-analysis aiming to compare the efﬁcacy and safety of anti-PD-1 therapy with chemotherapy in esophageal cancer.Patients and methods: Data were collected from eligible studies searched from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and objective response rate (ORR) was estimated to assess the efﬁcacy of PD-1 inhibitors versus chemotherapy. The subgroup analysis were also performed to evaluate the OS benefits. The OR for occurrence of treatment-related adverse effect was calculated to assess the safety of anti-PD-1 therapy.Results: A total of 4 studies were analyzed. Compared with patients with chemotherapy, patients with anti-PD-1 therapy had a signiﬁcant improvement in OS (HR=0.79, 95% CI: 0.71-0.88, P<0.001), but no signiﬁcant relationship was observed in PFS (HR=0.96, 95% CI: 0.76-1.20, P=0.69) and ORR (OR=1.92, 95% CI: 0.98-3.72, P=0.06). A similar result was observed in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The significant predictor for treatment benefit with combination therapy versus chemotherapy alone were histology (P=0.009). The incidence of grade 3 to 5 treatment-related adverse effect in anti-PD-1 therapy was distinctly lower than that in chemotherapy, but there is no statistical difference in all treatment-related adverse effect.Conclusion: Anti-PD-1 therapy signiﬁcantly prolonged the OS, simultaneously lowered grade 3 to 5 treatment-related adverse effect versus chemotherapy.
Ebola Virus VP35 Hijacks PKA-CREB1 Pathway for Replication and Pathogenesis by AKIP1 Association
Authors: Cao Cheng , Zhu Lin , Gao Ting , Liu Xuan
Published: January 2021

Ebola virus (EBOV), one of the deadliest viruses, is the cause of fatal Ebola hemorrhagic fever (EHF)1,2. The underlying mechanism of viral replication and EBOV-related hemorrhage is not fully understood. Here, we show that EBOV VP35, a cofactor of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, binds human A kinase interacting protein (AKIP1), which consequently activates protein kinase A (PKA) and PKA-downstream transcription factor CREB1. During EBOV infection, CREB1 is recruited into EBOV ribonucleoprotein complexes in viral inclusion bodies (VIBs) and employed for viral replication. AKIP1 depletion or PKA-CREB1 inhibition dramatically impairs EBOV replication. Meanwhile, the transcription of several coagulation-related genes, including THBD and SERPINB2, is substantially upregulated by VP35-dependent CREB1 activation, which may contribute to EBOV-related hemorrhage. The finding that EBOV VP35 hijacks the host PKA-CREB1 signal axis for viral replication and pathogenesis provides novel potential therapeutic approaches against Ebola virus disease.
Socio-Economic Determinants of Maternal Health Care Utilization in Kailahun District, Sierra Leone, 2020
Authors: Kangbai Desmond , Bandoh Delia Akosua , Manu Alexander , Kangbai Joetrice , Kenu Ernest , Addo-Lartey Adolphina
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND: Ascertaining the key determinants of maternal healthcare service utilization and their relative importance is critical to priority setting in policy development. Sierra Leone has one of the world’s highest maternal death ratios in the context of a weak health system. The objectives of this study were to determine; the level of utilization of Antenatal Care (ANC), Skilled Delivery Attendants (SDA), Postnatal Care (PNC) services, and factors that influence the utilization of these services.METHODS: We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study involving 554 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) who had at least one delivery in the last 3 years and lived in the Kailahun District, Sierra Leone from November 2019 to October 2020. Stata IC version 15.0 was used to analyse factors affecting maternal care utilization use.RESULTS: The median age of respondents was 25 years (Q1=17 years, Q3=30 years). Eighty-nine percent (89%) had 4 or more ANC visits. Only 35.9% of women were delivered by SDA. Women residing in urban areas had over six-fold increased odds of utilizing SDA as compared to women residing in rural areas (AOR=6.20, 95% CI=3.61-10.63). Women whose husbands had a primary level of education had 2.38 times increased odds of utilizing SDA than women whose husbands had no education (AOR=2.38, 95% CI=1.30-4.35). Women that walked longer distances (30-60 minutes) to seek healthcare had 2.98 times increased odds of utilizing SBA than those that walked shorter distances (<30 minutes) (AOR=2.98, 95% CI=1.67-5.33). Women who had a secondary/vocational level of education had 2.35 times increased odds of utilizing the standard PNC category as compared to those with no education (OR=2.35, 95% CI=1.19-4.63).CONCLUSION: The majority of women had 4 or more ANC visits yet the use of skilled birth attendants was low. Urban residence and education were significantly associated with the use of the standard PNC category. Education level and occupation of women, Husband's education, urban residence, and longer distance to health facilities were significant determinants of SDA use. To improve the utilization of maternal health care services, national healthcare policies should target the advancement of education, rural infrastructure, and the empowerment of women.
Microparticles Immobilized Tamarindus Indica Extract Bioremediates Toxic Chromium in Tannery Effluent and Contaminated Soil
Authors: Katsayal Babangida Sanusi , Muhammad Aliyu , Ahmed Ambi , Sallau Abdullahi Balarabe
Published: January 2021

Bioreduction of certain environmental toxic metals using plant-derived antioxidants has been proven effective and promising bioremediation approach. The Redox state of specific metals, in particular chromium, determines its environmental solubility and toxicity. Antioxidant-rich extract of tamarind leaves was extracted and its Cr(VI) reduction potentials in tannery effluent and Cr(VI) contaminated soil determined under acidic and neutral pHs. Microparticles immobilized tamarind extract were produced and similarly tested for Cr(VI) reduction capacity in tannery effluent and contaminated soil. The particles were initially characterized to evaluate their physicochemical properties, encapsulation efficiency as well as release kinetics. The particles produced were irregular in shape with a very high extract adsorption efficiency (87.06%). The particles shows high release kinetic constant and a lower half-life. About, 50 and 60% Cr(VI) reduction was achieved by tamarind extract immobilized microparticles in tannery effluent and 60 and 80% in Cr(VI) contaminated soil after 4hrs at pH 6.7 and 2.0, respectively. Cr(VI) in tannery effluent and contaminated soils was efficiently reduced and immobilization enhanced and preserved the extract effectiveness for a longer period of time. Therefore, immobilization of antioxidant-rich extract into microparticles was found to be essential in attaining maximum Cr(VI) reduction. Therefore, findings from this work could be very helpful in industrial waste treatment and environmental cleanliness.
Can Nutrition Education Improve the Nutrition Behavior and Anthropometric Indexes among Patients with Hypertension based on the Health Promotion Model?
Authors: Mirkarimi Kamal , Charkazi Abdurrahman , Heidari Alireza , Davaji Rahman Berdi Ozouni-
Published: January 2021

Background: Following the rapid urbanization, unhealthy diet, enhanced life expectancy, and sedentary lifestyle has led to an increase in the prevalence of CVD and its risk factors, such as hypertension. Self-care is introduced as “behaviors directed toward oneself or the environment to formulate one’s functioning in the interest of one’s life, and well-being. Can nutrition education improve the nutrition behavior and anthropometric indexes among patients with hypertension based on the Health Promotion Model?Methods: A quasi-experimental and single-blind study was conducted on patients with hypertension attended to the Health Houses of Gorgan city of Iran between June 2018 and February 2019. To collect information, 68 patients in the control and 68 ones in the intervention arm were investigated. Data were collected by distributing self-administered questionnaires about HPM constructs, and testing 3-day diet record. Education was just conducted in the intervention arm including six sessions during three weeks, and in final, measurement was run two and six months after intervention. Results: There was no difference between the two groups about constructs of the HPM, anthropometric indexes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and nutritional behavior before education, while after education all variables were significantly changed in two and six months’ follow-ups. Conclusion: HPM-based education might be likely useful to improve nutritional behaviors in patients with hypertension and it can also be applied in the health system of Golestan Province.
Poor Adult Nutrition Impairs Learning and Memory in a Parasitoid Wasp
Authors: Farahani Hossein Kishani , moghaddassi Yasaman , Pierre Jean-Sebastien , kraus stephane , Lihoreau Mathieu
Published: January 2021

Animals have evolved cognitive abilities whose impairment can incur dramatic fitness costs. While malnutrition is known to impact brain development and cognitive functions in vertebrates, little is known in insects, whose small brain appears particularly vulnerable to environmental stressors. Here, we investigated the influence of diet quality on learning and memory in the parasitoid wasp Venturia canescens. Newly emerged adults were exposed for 24h to either honey, sucrose solution 20%, sucrose solution 10%, or no food, before being conditioned in an olfactory associative learning task in which an odor (orange) was associated to a reward (host larvae). Wasps fed honey showed 3.5 times higher learning performances and 1.5 times longer memory retention times than wasps fed sucrose solutions and starved wasps. Poor diets also reduced longevity and fecundity. Our results demonstrate the importance of early adult nutrition for optimal cognitive function in these parasitoid wasps that must quickly develop olfactory memories for choosing high quality hosts for their progeny.
Dynamics of the compartmentalized Streptomyces chromosome during metabolic differentiation
Authors: Lioy Virginia , Lorenzi Jean-Noël , Najah Soumaya , Poinsignon Thibault , Hervé Leh , Saulnier Corinne , Aigle Bertrand , Lautru Sylvie , Thibessard Annabelle , Lespinet Olivier , Leblond Pierre , Jaszczyszyn Yan , Gorrichon Kevin , Varoquaux Nelle , Junier Ivan , Boccard Frédéric , Pernodet Jean-Luc , Bury-Moné Stéphanie
Published: January 2021

Streptomyces are among the most prolific bacterial producers of specialized metabolites, including antibiotics. The linear chromosome is partitioned into a central region harboring core genes and two extremities enriched in specialized metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters (SMBGCs). The molecular mechanisms governing structure and function of these compartmentalized genomes remain mostly unknown. Here we show that in exponential phase, chromosome structure correlates with genetic compartmentalization: conserved, large and highly transcribed genes form boundaries that segment the central part of the chromosome into domains, whereas the terminal ends are transcriptionally, largely quiescent compartments with different structural features. Onset of metabolic differentiation is accompanied by remodeling of chromosome architecture from an ‘open’ to a rather ‘closed’ conformation, in which the SMBGCs are expressed forming new boundaries. Altogether, our results reveal that S. ambofaciens’ linear chromosome is partitioned into structurally distinct entities, indicating a link between chromosome folding, gene expression and genome evolution.
General Practitioners’ Perceived Indicators of Vulnerability in Pregnancy- A Qualitative Study
Authors: Venø Louise , Jarbøl Dorte , Pedersen Line , Søndergaard Jens , Ertmann Ruth
Published: January 2021

Objective To explore general practitioners’ (GPs’) perceived indicators of vulnerability among pregnant women in primary care. Design A qualitative study with semi-structured in-depth focus group interviews. Setting General practices located in a mixture of urban, semi-urban and rural practices throughout the Region of Southern Denmark Subjects Twenty GPs between 32 and 56 years of age. Main outcome measures Through qualitative analysis and systematic text condensation of the interview data, the following themes emerged: (1) obvious indicators of vulnerability - i.e. somatic or psychological illnesses, or complex social problems and 2) intangible indicators of vulnerability – i.e. identification depended on the GPs’ gut-feeling. From the GPs’ perspective, the concept of vulnerability in pregnancy were perceived as the net result of risk factors and available individual and social resources, with a psychosocial etiology was the dominant framework. Conclusions The GPs demonstrated a broad variety of perceived indicators of vulnerability in pregnancy; most importantly, the GPs were aware of a group of pregnant women with intangible vulnerability. Despite not fitting into the GPs perceived concept of vulnerability, the GPs had a gut feeling that these women might be vulnerable. Misjudging the resources of pregnant women due to their physical appearance could delay the GPs’ identification of vulnerability. Future studies should explore the challenges GPs experiences when assessing vulnerability among pregnant women.
Effects of High-Intensity Training on the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients and Survivors: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lavín-Pérez Ana , Collado-Mateo Daniel , Mayo Xián , Liguori Gary , Humphreys Liam , Copeland Robert , Jimenez Alfonso
Published: January 2021

Cancer and associated medical treatments affect patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) by decreasing functional dimensions of physical, social, cognitive, and emotional well-being, while increasing short and late-term symptoms. Exercise, however, is demonstrated to be a useful therapy to improve cancer patients and survivors’ HRQoL, yet the effectiveness of high-intensity training (HIT) exercise is uncertain. This systematic-review and meta-analysis aimed to analyse the effects of HIT on HRQoL dimensions in cancer patients and survivors as well as evaluate the optimal prescription of HIT. The search followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA) and examined Web of Science and PubMed (Medline) databases. Data was analysed utilizing Review Manager Software. Twenty-two articles were included in the systematic review and seventeen in the meta-analysis. Results showed HIT improved global quality of life, physical functioning, role functioning, social functioning, cognitive functioning, fatigue, pain, dyspnoea, and insomnia, compared to an inactive control group. Whereas no differences were found in contrast to low to moderate-intensity exercise compared to inactive controls. Particular improvements in HRQoL were observed during the cancer treatment and with the following prescription: a training duration of more than eight weeks, a frequency of 2 days/week, a volume of at least 120 minutes/week including 15 minutes or more of HIT. Our findings whilst encouraging, highlight the infancy of the extant evidence base for the role of HIT in the HRQoL of cancer patients and survivors.
Non-Abelian Three-Loop Braiding Statistics for 3D Fermionic Topological Phases
Authors: Zhou Jin-Ren , Wang Qing-Rui , Wang Chenjie , Gu Zheng-Cheng
Published: January 2021

Fractional statistics is one of the most intriguing features of topological phases in 2D. In particular, the so-called non-Abelian statistics plays a crucial role towards realizing universal topological quantum computation. Recently, the study of topological phases has been extended to 3D and it has been proposed that loop-like extensive objects can also carry fractional statistics. In this work, we systematically study the so-called three-loop braiding statistics for 3D interacting fermion systems. Most surprisingly, we discovered new types of non-Abelian three-loop braiding statistics that can only be realized in fermionic systems (or equivalently bosonic systems with emergent fermionic particles). The simplest example of such non-Abelian braiding statistics can be realized in interacting fermionic systems with a gauge group Z2 × Z8 or Z4 × Z4, and the physical origin of non-Abelian statistics can be viewed as attaching an open Majorana chain onto a pair of linked loops, which will be naturally reduced to the well known Ising non-Abelian anyons via the standard dimension reduction scheme. Moreover, due to the correspondence between gauge theories with fermionic particles and classifying fermionic symmetry-protected topological (FSPT) phases with unitary symmetries, our study also gives rise to an alternative way to classify FSPT phases. We further compare the classiﬁcation results for FSPT phases with arbitrary Abelian unitary total symmetry Gf and ﬁnd systematical agreement with previous studies using other methods. We believe that the proposed framework of understanding three-loop braiding statistics (including both Abelian and non-Abelian cases) in interacting fermion systems applies for generic fermonic topological phases in 3D.
Angiopoietin 1 release from Human Neutrophils is Independent from Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs)
Authors: Charles Elcha , Dumont Benjamin , Bonneau Steven , Neagoe Paul-Eduard , Villeneuve Louis , Rakel Agnès , White Michel , Sirois Martin
Published: January 2021

Background: Neutrophils induce the synthesis and release of angiopoietin 1 (Ang1), a cytosolic growth factor involved in angiogenesis and capable of inducing several pro-inflammatory activities in neutrophils. Neutrophils also synthesize and release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), comprised from decondensed nuclear DNA filaments carrying proteins such as neutrophil elastase (NE), myeloperoxidase (MPO), proteinase 3 (PR3) and calprotectin (S100A8/S100A9), which together, contribute to the innate immune response against pathogens (e.g., bacteria). NETs are involved in various pathological conditions through pro-inflammatory, pro-thrombotic and endothelial dysfunction effects and have recently been found in heart failure (HF) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of NETs on the synthesis and release of Ang1 by the neutrophils in patients with T2DM and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) (stable or acute decompensated; ADHFpEF) with or without T2DM. Results: Our data show that at basal level (PBS) and upon treatment with LPS, levels of NETs are slightly increased in patients suffering from T2DM, HFpEF ± T2DM and ADHF w/o T2DM, whereas this increase was significant in ADHFpEF + T2DM patients compared to healthy control (HC) volunteers and ADHFpEF without T2DM. We also observed that treatments with PMA or A23187 increase the synthesis of Ang1 (from 150 to 250%) in HC and this effect is amplified in T2DM and in all cohorts of HF patients. Ang1 is completely released (100%) by neutrophils of all groups and does not bind to NETs as opposed to calprotectin. Conclusions: Our study suggests that severely ill patients with HFpEF and diabetes synthesize and release a greater abundance of NETs while Ang1 exocytosis is independent of NETs synthesis.
Global Analysis of Expression, Maturation and Subcellular Localization of Mouse Liver Transcriptome Identifies Novel Sex-biased and TCPOBOP-responsive Long Non-coding RNAs
Authors: Goldfarb Christine , Waxman David
Published: January 2021

Background: While nuclear transcription and RNA processing and localization are well established for protein coding genes (PCGs), these processes are poorly understood for lncRNAs. Here, we characterize global patterns of transcript expression, maturation and localization for mouse liver RNA, including more than 15,000 lncRNAs. PolyA-selected liver RNA was isolated and sequenced from four subcellular fractions (chromatin, nucleoplasm, total nucleus, and cytoplasm), and from the chromatin-bound fraction without polyA selection.Results: Transcript processing, determined from normalized intronic to exonic sequence read density ratios, progressively increased for PCG transcripts in going from the chromatin-bound fraction to the nucleoplasm and then on to the cytoplasm. Transcript maturation was similar for lncRNAs in the chromatin fraction, but was significantly lower in the nucleoplasm and cytoplasm. LncRNAs were 11-fold more likely to be significantly enriched in the nucleus than cytoplasm, and 100-fold more likely to be significantly chromatin-bound than nucleoplasmic. Sequencing chromatin-bound RNA greatly increased the sensitivity for detecting lowly expressed lncRNAs and enabled us to discover and localize hundreds of novel regulated liver lncRNAs, including lncRNAs showing sex-biased expression or responsiveness to a xenobiotic agonist ligand of constitutive androstane receptor (Nr1i3). Conclusions: Integration of our findings with prior studies and lncRNA annotations identified candidate regulatory lncRNAs for a variety of hepatic functions based on gene co-localization within topologically associating domains or transcription divergent or antisense to PCGs associated with pathways linked to hepatic physiology and disease.
The Occurrence of Aflatoxins and Human Health Risk Estimations in Randomly Obtained Maize from Some Markets in Ghana
Authors: Kortei Nii Korley , Annan Theophilus , Akonor Papa Toah , Richard Seidu , Annan Helen , Kyei-Baffour Vincent , Akuamoa Felicia , Akpaloo Princess , Esua-Amoafo Paul
Published: January 2021

Maize and its products are most often prone to fungal contamination especially during cultivation and storage by toxigenic fungi. Aflatoxicosis still persist in Ghana despite the numerous education on several ways of its prevention at the farm as well as its adverse health implications which are food safety concerns. A random assessment and human risk analysis was conducted on 90 maize (72 white and 18 colored) samples from markets across all the regions of Ghana. Total aflatoxins (AFtotal) and the constitutive aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2) were analyzed by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Out of a total of ninety (90) samples investigated, 72 (80%) tested positive for AFB1 and the contamination levels ranged from 0.78 ± 0.04–339.3 ± 8.6µg/kg. Similarly, AFG2 was detected in only 14 (15.5%) samples, and their values ranged between 1.09 ± 0.03–5.51 ± 0.26 µg/kg while AF total ranged between 0.78 ± 0.04- 445.01 ± 8.9 µg/kg constituting approximately 72 (80%). Limits of AFB1 and total aflatoxins (AFtotal) for the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) (5 and 10 µg/kg) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (2 and 4 µg/kg), were used as checks. A total of 33 (41.25%) samples were above the limits for both. Risk assessments recorded for Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Hazard Quotient (H.Q), Hazard Index (H.I), Margin of Exposure (MOE), av. Potency, and population risks ranged 0.087–0.38 µg/Kg.bw/day, 1.5–6.9, 0.0087-0.38, 3.64–12.09, 0-0.0396 ng Aflatoxins kg− 1bwday− 1 and, 3.5x10− 1 – 0.015 respectively for total aflatoxins. While ranges for aflatoxins B1 (AFB1) recorded were 0.068-0.3 µg/Kg.bw/day, 2.43–10.64, 0.0068-0.030, 4.73–20.51, 0-0.0396 ng Aflatoxins kg− 1bwday− 1 and, 2.69 x10− 3-0.012 for Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Hazard Quotient (H.Q), Hazard Index (H.I), Margin of Exposure (MOE), Av. potency, and population risks respectively. It was deduced that although there was some observed contamination of maize across the different ecological zones, the consumption of maize (white and colored) posed no adverse health effects on the population of Ghana since computed H.I was less than 1 (< 1).
Erythrocyte-derived Extracellular Vesicles Aggravates Inflammation via Facilitating pro-inflammatory Phenotype of Macrophages
Authors: Gao Yuhan , Jin Haiqiang , Tan Hui , Hou Ruiqin , Tian Wenqin , Zhang Jianhua , Yang Ying , Qin Ranran , Sun Yongan
Published: January 2021

Transfusion of aged erythrocytes is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in the critically infections with incompletely understood mechanism. Previous studies suggested red blood cell (RBC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) may be potential risk factors for the occurrence of transfusion-related immunomodulation (TRIM). The purpose of our study is to evaluate the effects of EVs under the inflammation condition and explore the underlying mechanisms. In vivo, the activity of EVs was evaluated in the caecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis. Our results showed EVs significantly aggravated the inflammatory response of sepsis in serum and lung tissue by promoting the production of pro-inflammatory factors, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and reduced the survival rate of septic mice in vivo. Importantly, adoptive transfer EVs pretreated bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) obviously aggravated the systemic pro-inflammatory factors in mice after CLP surgery. In vitro, the pro-inflammatory properties of EVs were shown as elevating the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1βin LPS-stimulated BMDM. Moreover, EVs promoted the LPS-induced macrophages polarization into pro-inflammatory phenotype. The underlying mechanism was possibly that EVs could up-regulate NF-κB and MAPKs activity to favor macrophage cytokines production.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Intervention for People with Severe Mental Illness in a Low-Income Country Primary Care Setting: A Randomized Feasibility Trial Protocol
Authors: Ng Lauren , Serba Eyerusalem Getachew , Dubale Benyam W. , Fekadu Abebaw , Hanlon Charlotte
Published: January 2021

BackgroundIn this protocol, we outline a mixed-methods randomized feasibility trial of Brief Relaxation, Education and Trauma Healing (BREATHE) Ethiopia. BREATHE Ethiopia is a culturally and contextually adapted intervention for PTSD in participants with severe mental illness. BREATHE Ethiopia maps onto the World Health Organization’s guidelines for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment in low- and middle-income country primary care settings. MethodsSpecifically, this study includes a non-randomized pre-pilot (n=5) and a randomized feasibility trial comparing BREATHE Ethiopia to Treatment as Usual (n=40) to assess trial procedures, acceptability and feasibility of intervention delivery, and investigate potential effectiveness and implementation. In a process evaluation we will collect data that will be critical for a future fully randomized controlled trial, including the numbers of participants who are eligible, who consent, who engage in treatment, and who complete the assessments, as well as the feasibility and acceptability of assessments and the intervention. Qualitative data on facilitators and barriers to intervention delivery and quantitative data on provider fidelity to the intervention and participant and provider satisfaction will also be collected. Quantitative assessments at baseline, post-treatment, one-month follow-up, and three-month follow-up will assess change in mental health symptoms and functional impairment and hypothesized intervention mechanisms, including knowledge about PTSD, stigma, trauma-related cognitions, and physiological arousal. DiscussionFindings from this study will inform a future fully-powered randomized controlled trial, and if found to be effective, the intervention has the potential to be integrated into mental healthcare scale-up efforts in other low-resource settings. Trial RegistrationRegistered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04385498) first posted May 13th, 2020; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04385498?term=ethiopia&cond=PTSD&draw=2&rank=1.
Initial Experience of Video-assisted Thoracic Surgery Lobectomy After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Plus Toripalimab in a Patient With Locally Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Zhai Chunbo , Li Wei , Che Jianpeng , Wang Weiqian , Liu Bingchun
Published: January 2021

BackgroundImmune checkpoint inhibitors were used for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) more and more frequently and the effects were thrilling. Toripalimab as a new immune checkpoint inhibitor has been shown to be effective in patients with advanced NSCLC. However, data regarding the safety and feasibility of surgical resection after treatment with toripalimab for NSCLC remain scarce. Here, we present a case with locally advanced NSCLC that received video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy after treatment with toripalimab in combination with chemotherapy. Case Presentation A 62-year-old male patient with a history of coronary artery stenting operation for two times was found a 3.4 × 3.2cm cavity mass in the upper lobe of the left lung and enlarged left hilar and mediastinal lymph nodes. Pathological results identified squamous cell carcinoma. The patient was diagnosed with a locally advanced NSCLC and received VATS left upper lobectomy and lymph node dissection after neoadjuvant chemotherapy plus toripalimab for 3 cycles. The postoperative pathological results showed complete tumor remission. Short-term follow-up results were excellent, and long-term results remain to be revealed. ConclusionsOur preliminary results showed that the use of neoadjuvant toripalimab and chemotherapy for the locally advanced NSCLC before surgical resection is safe and feasible.
Unraveling the Neuroprotective Effect of Tinospora Cordifolia in Parkinsonian Mouse Model Through Proteomics Approach.
Authors: Birla Hareram , Keswani Chetan , Singh Saumitra Sen , Zahra Walia , Dilnashin Hagera , Rathore Aaina Singh , Singh Richa , Rajput Monika , Singh Surya Pratap
Published: January 2021

BackgroundStress-induced dopaminergic (DAergic) neuronal death in the midbrain region is the primary cause of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Approximately 2% of the global population aged above 65 years is affected with PD. Various factors are responsible for the death of DAergic neurons, among which mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, misfolded protein aggregation and neuroinflammation are the primary factors. From the discovery of L-dopa, multiple drugs were discovered to improve lifestyle of PD patients, but they failed due to their multiple side effects. Tinospora cordifolia (Tc), a medicinal herb has been used in traditional medicines to treat neurodegenerative diseases. In our previous study, the neuroprotective role of Tc against MPTP-intoxicated Parkinsonian mice was reported. Here, we further explore the neuroprotective molecular mechanisms of Tc in Rotenone (ROT) intoxicated mouse model through proteomics approach.MethodsMice were pretreated with Tc extract by oral administration, followed by ROT-intoxication (2mg/kg body wt. for 35 days, subcutaneous). Rotarod, catalepsy, footprint and pole tests were carried out at 35th day to observe the neuroprotective effects of Tc on motor impairment caused by ROT in PD mice. Protein from nigrostriatal region of the mid brain was isolated, and label free quantification (LFQ) was carried out to identify differentially expressed protein (DEPs) in control vs. PD and PD vs. treatment group. Bioinformatics analysis of DEPs was carried out to explore the molecular pathway, cellular location, molecular function of proteins.ResultsIn this study, we report 800 DEPs in control vs. PD and 133 in PD vs. Treatment group. In silico tools clearly demonstrate significant enrichment of biochemical and molecular pathways with DEPs which are known to be important for PD progression, including, mitochondrial gene expression, hypothetical network for drug addiction, PD pathways, TGF-β signaling, Alzheimer’s disease, Odorant GPCRs and chemokine signaling pathway.ConclusionThis study provides a novel insight for the disease progression in PD mouse. More importantly, it demonstrates that Tc exerts the therapeutic effects through the regulation of multiple pathways to protect DAergic neurons.
Seasonal Variation of Biosynthetic Path Selectivity of Flavonoids, and Content and Antioxidant Activity of Metabolites in Tetrastigma Hemsleyanum Diels Et Gilg
Authors: Shi YanShou , Yang Li , Yu MinFen , Li ZhaoHui , Ke ZhiJun , Ruan Xiao , He LiPing , Wei Feng , Zhao YingXian , Wang Qiang
Published: January 2021

This work investigated the seasonal variations in biosynthetic path selectivity of nine individual flavonoids, and content and antioxidant activity of three major metabolites in Tetrastigma hemsleyanum. The results revealed that under conditions of precipitation (2.0~6.6 mm), temperature (17.5~24.1°C), humidity (67.3~80.2%) and sunshine duration (3.4~5.8 h) in April and May, the total content of flavonoids reached higher levels between 282 and 394.5 μg/g; in the second half of April with the highest accumulation of flavonoids, the production selectivity (PS) of isoorientin, orientin, rutin, isoquercitin, kaempferol-3-0-rutinoside, astragalin, quercetin, apigenin and kaempferol were 0.30, 0.06, 0.07, 0.07, 0.00, 0.04, 0.38, 0.05 and 0.03, respectively; also according to the reaction network consisting of three main pathways for flavonoids syntheses in T. hemsleyanum, the selectivity of reaction Path II to synthesize quercetin, isoquercitin and rutin in April, May and June fluctuated between 0.52 and 0.66, much higher than that of reaction Path I or Path III.
Dual Edge Classifer for Robust Cloth Unfolding
Authors: Gabas Antonio , Kita Yasuyo , Yoshida Eiichi
Published: January 2021

Compared with more rigid objects, clothing items are inherently difficult for robots to recognize and manipulate. We propose a method for detecting how cloth is folded, to facilitate choosing a manipulative action that corresponds to a garment's shape and position. The proposed method involves classifying the edges and corners of a garment by distinguishing between edges formed by folds and the hem or ragged edge of the cloth. Identifying the type of edges in a corner helps to determinate how the object is folded. This bottom-up approach, together with an active perception system, allows us to select strategies for robotic manipulation. We corroborate the method using a two-armed robot to manipulate towels of different shapes, textures, and sizes.
Efficiency and Fermentative Yield of Sweet Sorghum Using Cat-1 And Pedra-2
Authors: Freita Lidyane Aline de , Freita Cristhyane Millena de , Roviero Juliana Pelegrini , Costa Gustavo Henrique Gravatim , Ferreira Osania Emerenciano , Silva Aline Ferreira , Teixeira Vitor , Tralli Letícia Fernanda , Ribeiro Natália Novais , Mutton Márcia Justino Rossini
Published: January 2021

Background: The increase in demand for fuels has intensified the search for renewable energy sources, mainly biomass, with sugarcane being the most important factor in the production of bioethanol. In addition, sorghum cultivation presents high potential mainly for using the same industrial production complex and being processed in the off-season of sugarcane. However, information on the chemical and technological characteristics of sweet sorghum in the national literature is scarce. These are of extreme importance considering the preparation and adaptation stages of musts and yeasts, preceding the process of ethanolic fermentation. The objective of this research was to evaluate the fermentation process of the CVSW80007 genotypes; CVWS80147 and BRS610 in laboratory scale, evaluating the performance of CAT-1 and PEDRA-2 yeasts by determining yields and fermentative efficiencies and alcohol production (L.ha-1 and L.t-1). Results: The experimental design was the randomized blocks in a 3x2x6 Factorial model in the fermentation process (for each of the yeasts studied). The results indicated that CAT-1 and PEDRA-2 yeasts demonstrate similar behavior, being efficient in the fermentation process. The fermentation of must was prepared from stalks with leaves and without leaves (135 days after sowing) of the three genotypes, results in 47.0 and 39.8 L.t-1 ethanol, respectively, using sweet sorghum.Conclusions: The conditions studied on a laboratory scale demonstrate that the different sweet sorghum genotypes have potential for ethanol production, with the stalks with leaves and panicles increasing the alcohol content and fermentative efficiency.