bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mannose-binding lectin reduces oxidized low-density lipoprotein induced vascular endothelial cells injury by modulating autophagy via LOX1
Authors: Zhou Xue-lian , Chen Xue-feng , Zhang Li , Yuan Jin-na , Lin Hu , Zhu Ming-qiang , Xu Xiao-qin , Dong Guan-ping , Fu Jun-fen , Wu Wei
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate the role of mannose-binding lectin (MBL) in modulating autophagy and protecting endothelial cells (ECs) from oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) induced injury.
Materials and Methods

Rapamycin and chloroquine were used to confirm the role of autophagy in ox-LDL induced ECs injury. Dendritic cells (DCs) were co-cultured with ECs, after which inflammatory factors and DCs maturation rate were detected. Autophagy was detected by LC3 and Lamp2a or autophagosomes. Cell viability was analyzed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Flow cytometry was utilized to analyze cell proliferation and apoptotic rate. ECs transfected with lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1)-siRNA or MBL over-expression plasmid were treated with ox-LDL to explore the mechanism of MBL in ECs injury. HE, Oil Red O, TUNEL staining, and immunofluorescence were used to evaluate the atherosclerotic plaque, ECs injury, and autophagy, respectively. Retro-eyeball injections of MBL over-expression adenovirus were conducted every 4 weeks, after which ECs injury, autophagy, the uptake of ox-LDL, and expression of LOX1 were further analyzed.
Results

ECs treated with 100 ug/mL ox-LDL for 24 h significantly increased the expression of LC3, Lamp2a, and ET1. Rapamycin aggravated, chloroquine alleviated ox-LDL induced ECs autophagy and injury. LOX1-siRNA transfected ECs inhibited the uptake of ox-LDL and reduced ECs autophagy and injury compared with siRNA group. MBL over-expression in vitro decreased the binding of LOX1 and ox-LDL, ameliorated ECs autophagy and injury compared with the control plasmid group. MBL over-expression in vivo alleviated the formation of atherosclerotic plaque in HFD fed ApoE-/- mice, influenced the maturation of DCs, and down-regulated IL-6, IL-12, and TNF-a level compared with the control group. Also, mannan could reverse the protective role of MBL.
Conclusion

MBL exerts a protective role in ox-LDL induced ECs injury and HFD induced atherosclerosis model by regulating DCs maturation and modulating ECs autophagy via blocking the binding of LOX1 and ox-LDL.
Prevalence and Determinants of Home Delivery in Eastern Africa: Further Analysis of Countries Recent Demographic and Health Survey Data
Authors: Regassa Lemma Demissie , Tola Assefa , Weldesenbet Adisu Birhanu , Tusa Biruk Shalmeno
Published: February 2021

Background: Despite the high proportion of maternal mortality ratio in East African countries primarily attributed to home delivery, overall magnitude of home delivery and its determinants remains unclear. Therefore, the current study aimed to determine magnitude of home delivery and its determinant factors in East Africa using Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data.Methods: We pooled the DHS survey data of the 11 East African countries, and a total weighted sample of 125,786 women were included in the study. Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMM) was fitted to identify factors associated with home delivery. Variables with Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI), and p-value < 0.05 in the final GLMM model were reported to declare significantly associated factors with home delivery.Result: The weighted prevalence of home delivery was 23.79% [95% CI: 23.55 – 24.02] among women in East Africa countries. Home delivery was highest among Ethiopian women (72.5%) whereas, it was lowest among women from Mozambique (2.8%). In GMM, respondent’s age group, marital status, educational status, place of residence, living country, wealth index, media exposure and total children ever born were shown significantly associated with the home delivery in the East Africa countiesConclusion: Home delivery was varied between countries of East African zone. The home delivery was significantly increased among women aged 20-34 years, higher number of ever born children, rural residence, never married or formerly married participants. To the contrast home delivery was decreased with higher educational level, media exposure, and higher wealth index. Wide range interventions to decrease home delivery should focus on addressing inequities associated with maternal education, family wealth, increased access to media, as well as narrowing the gap between the rural and the urban areas, poor and rich families, and married and unmarried mothers.
Astrocytic YAP Protects the Optic Nerve and Retina in an Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Model Through TGF-β Signaling
Authors: Wu qian , Miao Xuemeng , Zhang Jingjing , Xiang Ludan , Li Xiuchun , Bao Xiaomei , dong Haoru , Du Siyu , Wang Wei , Xu Xingxing , Zhang xu , Shen Xiya , Yang Danlu , Wang Xiwu , Miao shuangda , fang yuanyuan , Wang hui , hu lixin , Fan Yiren , pan xuyi , Wang Ying , huang zhihui
Published: February 2021

BackgroundOptic neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve (ON), is one of the main symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS) and leads to visual disability. Astrocytes are pivotal regulators of neuroinflammation in MS. However, it remains unclear that the detailed roles and mechanisms of astrocytes in the neuroinflammation and demyelination in optic neuritis of MS. MethodsTo assess the role of YAP in ON and retina in response to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), mice that conditionally knockout (CKO) YAP in astrocytes, namely YAP GFAP -CKO mice, were successfully generated. Immunostaining, Nissl staining, Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining, TUNEL staining, luxol fast blue (LFB) staining, electron microscopy (EM), qRT-PCR and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) by RNA sequencing were used to examine the roles of YAP pathway in EAE based on these conditional knockout mice. Inhibitors including SRI-011381 [an agonist of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway] and XMU-MP-1 (an inhibitor of Hippo kinase MST1/2 to activate YAP) were used to further explore the molecular mechanism of YAP in ON and retina of EAE mice. Additionally, microglia and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) counts, and demyelination and astrocytes were assessed by immunohistological staining. ResultsWe found that yes-associated protein (YAP) was significantly upregulated and activated in the astrocytes of ON in EAE. Conditional knockout YAP in astrocytes caused more severe inflammatory infiltration and demyelination in ON, and damage of the RGCs in EAE mice. Moreover, YAP deletion in astrocytes promoted the activation of astrocytes and microglia, but inhibited the proliferation of astrocytes of ON in EAE mice. Mechanically, TGF-β signaling pathway was significantly down-regulated after YAP deletion in astrocytes . Additionally, both qPCR and immunofluorescence assays confirmed the reduction of TGF-β 1 in YAP knockout ON astrocytes of EAE mice. Interestingly, SRI-011381 partially rescued the deficits in ON and retina of YAP knockout EAE mice. Finally, activation of YAP pathway relieved the neuroinflammation and demyelination in optic neuritis of EAE mice. ConclusionsThese results suggest astrocytic YAP may prevent the neuroinflammatory infiltration and demyelination through upregulation of TGF-β signaling and provide targets for the development of therapeutic strategies tailored for optic neuritis in MS.
Norovirus outbreaks in long-term care facilities. Catalonia, 2017-2018
Authors: Parrón Ignacio , Barrabeig Irene , Alseda Miquel , Rius Cristina , Cornejo-Sánchez Thais , Jané Mireia , Pérez Cristina , Guix Susanna , Domínguez Àngela , Group Working
Published: February 2021

Norovirus is the leading cause of outbreaks of acute viral gastroenteritis. We carried out this study to investigate outbreaks in long-term care facilities reported in 2017 and 2018 in Catalonia (Spain). The characteristics of the centres, exposed persons and the genogroups responsible were analyzed. Viral loads were estimated. The attack rate (AR), rate ratios (RR) or the odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The mean cycle thresholds (Cq) were compared using the t-test for independent means. We included 30 outbreaks (4,631 exposed people). The global AR was 25.9%. The RR of residents vs. staff was 2.28 (95%CI 2.0-2.6). In residents with total or severe dependence the attack rate was 85.16% and in residents with moderate and low dependence or independent was 69.13% (RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.05–1.45). ARs were higher in smaller centres than in larger ones (34.4% vs 19.5%; RR 1.76 (95%CI 1.60–1.94). GII was responsible for 70% of outbreaks and 78.5% of identifications. No association was found between the genogroup and presenting symptoms (OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.41 to 2.26). Viral loads were higher in symptomatic than in asymptomatic patients (p = 0.001). Because norovirus was detected in asymptomatic persons, control measures should be applied not only to people with symptoms but to all persons in LTCF where norovirus outbreaks occur.
Ag2O/GO/TiO2 Composite Nanostructure: an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for one pot synthesis of Bis (dihydropyrimidinone) and tetrahydro-4H-chromenes derivatives
Authors: Zadeh Fatemeh Samandi , Mohammadi Mohammad Kazem , Raeiatzadeh Ayeh , Hasanzadeh Neda
Published: February 2021

The simple and efficient synthesis reaction was used for preparing Bis (dihydropyrimidinone) derivatives through Biginelli condensation reaction of terephthalic aldehyde, 1, 3-dicarbonyl compounds and (thio) urea or guanidine and tetrahydro-4H-chromenes via one pot condensation of aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile and dimedone with Ag2O/GO/TiO2 composite nanostructures as a catalyst. The structural functionalities and morphological observations of catalyst were obtained using characterization techniques of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transfer infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The structures of Bis (dihydropyrimidinone) and tetrahydro-4H-chromenes confirmed by FT- IR, NMR and mass spectroscopy. Excellent yields of the products, simple reaction process and simple work-up are attractive features of these effective synthesis methods.
Resilience and Its Relationship With Occupational Stress and Professional Quality of Life Among Nurses in COVID-19 Isolation Wards
Authors: Mostafazadeh Ali , Ghorbani-Sani Somayyeh , Seyed-Mohammadi Najmadin , Ghader-jola Kazhal , Habibpour Zeinab
Published: February 2021

Background: Nurses’ direct and continuous contact with patients afflicted by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes them stress due to fear over affliction and reduces their professional quality of life (PQOL). Resilience has potential protective effects against different stressors. This study aimed to assess resilience and its relationship with occupational stress (OS) and PQOL among nurses in COVID-19 isolation wards.Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2020. Participants were nurses in the COVID-19 isolation wards of healthcare centers affiliated to Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran. In total, 158 eligible nurses were recruited through a census. Data were collected using a researcher-made demographic questionnaire, the short version of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, the Nursing Stress Scale, and the PQOL Scale. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS software (v. 16.) and through the independent-sample t test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson’s correlation analysis, and linear regression analysis.Results: The total mean scores of resilience and OS were 26.19±6.2 (in the possible range of 0–40) and 73.3±14.5 (in the possible range of 34–136), respectively. The mean scores of the compassion satisfaction, job burnout, and secondary traumatic stress dimensions of PQOL were respectively 38.02±8.16, 30.84±5.45, and 27.66±6.13, (all in the possible range of 10–50). Most participants experienced moderate OS (57.9%). The mean scores of participants’ resilience and OS had no significant relationship with their demographic characteristics (P > 0.05). Resilience had significant negative relationship with OS (r = –0.376, P < 0.001) and significant positive relationship with the compassion satisfaction dimension of PQOL (r = 0.373; P < 0.001). Resilience was also a significant predictor of OS and the compassion satisfaction dimension of PQOL (P < 0.001).Conclusion: Nurses’ OS can be reduced through resilience-promoting strategies such as development of their social support network, improvement of their optimism, and provision of resilient role models and quality resilience-related education.
Exosomal Proteomic Signatures Correlate With Drug Resistance and Carboplatin Treatment Outcome in a Spontaneous Model of Canine Osteosarcoma
Authors: Weinman Marcus A , Ramsey Stephen A , Leeper Haley J , Brady Jacqueline V , Schlueter Andrew , Stanisheuski Stanislau , Maier Claudia S , Miller Tasha , Ruby Carl , Bracha Shay
Published: February 2021

BackgroundOsteosarcoma patients often experience poor outcomes despite chemotherapy treatment, likely due in part to various mechanisms of tumor cell innate and/or acquired drug resistance. Exosomes, microvesicles secreted by cells, have been shown to play a role in drug resistance, but a comprehensive protein signature relating to osteosarcoma carboplatin resistance has not been fully characterized. MethodsIn this study, cell lysates and exosomes from two derivatives (HMPOS-2.5R and HMPOS-10R) of the HMPOS osteosarcoma cell line generated by repeated carboplatin treatment and recovery, were characterized proteomically by mass spectrometry. Protein cargos of circulating serum exosomes from dogs with naturally occurring osteosarcoma, were also assessed by mass spectrometry, to identify biomarkers that discriminate between good and poor responders to carboplatin therapy. ResultsBoth cell lysates and exosomes exhibited distinct protein signatures related to drug resistance. Furthermore, exosomes from the resistant HMPOS-2.5R cell line were found to transfer drug resistance to drug-sensitive HMPOS cells. The comparison of serum exosomes from dogs with a favorable disease-free interval [DFI] of >300 days, and dogs with <100 days DFI revealed a proteomic signature that could discriminate between the two cohorts with high accuracy. Furthermore, when the patient’s exosomes were compared to exosomes isolated from carboplatin resistant cell lines, several putative biomarkers were found to be shared. Conclusions﻿The findings of this study highlight the significance of exosomes in the potential transfer of drug resistance, and the discovery of novel biomarkers for the development of liquid biopsies to better guide personalized chemotherapy treatment.
Characteristics of T lymphocyte subsets and their apparent effect on infection in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Zhang Yali , Ji Ying , Yu Lei , Zhao Ye , Liu Guoping , Dong Lina
Published: February 2021

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with Immune deficiency. T lymphocytes are significant components of the adaptive immune system. Previous studies have found dysfunction of T lymphocytes in patients with CKD,but the changing trend of the absolute number of T lymphocytes and the relationship with infection has been still unclear in CKD.
Methods

We collected 447 patients with CKD, tested the absolute counts of T lymphocyte subsets, explored the relationship between the absolute count of T lymphocytes and renal function, and explored these impacts on infection.
Results

absolute counts of T lymphocyte gradually decrease as CKD progresses. The patients with infection demonstrated fewer T lymphocyte cells compared with non-infected patients. CD4+ (cluster of differentiation 4) T lymphocytes are closely related to infection and CD4+ T < 469 cells/µl has a certain value in predicting infection in patients with CKD.
Conclusion

With the gradual decline of renal function in CKD patients, the level of T lymphocytes gradually decreased and the risk of infection gradually increased. The CD4+T absolute count has a specific predictive power for infection in patients with chronic kidney disease. Our results suggest a new feasible strategy for preventing infections in CKD patients.
Primary Colonic Lymphoma: Report of Two Cases and a Literature Review
Authors: Chen Li , Chen Engeng , Jin Dongai , song zhangfa
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Primary colonic lymphoma is a highly rare malignant tumor. There is no standard treatment method for this disease. We report two cases of primary lymphoma of the colon successfully treated with chemotherapy and surgery respectively.Case Presentation: In the first case, a 61-year-old female presented with the symptoms of abdominal pain for more than one month. The patient was diagnosed with a colonic tumor. However, immunohistochemical examinations conﬁrmed the initial diagnosis of colonic lymphoma. The patient underwent laparoscopic assisted right hemicolectomy and followed by postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy with CHOP regimen (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone), combined with targeted therapy of rituximab. In the second case, a 78-year-old male presented with complaints abdominal distention for more than one year. Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma was definitely diagnosed by immunohistochemical examinations. And this patient treated by the systemic chemotherapy with R- CHOP regimen.Conclusions: Primary colonic lymphoma is a rare type of NHL. The clinical treatment is not standardized unlike many other types of lymphomas. Maybe it is mainly based on the symptoms to determine whether surgery or systemic chemotherapy. Rituximab is effective in some patients which may play an important role in the treatment of unresectable or asymptomatic colonic lymphoma.
A Correlation Study Between Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Serum Triglyceride Level After an Oral Fat Tolerance Test
Authors: Hou Xiaoyu , Guan Yunpeng , Tang Yong , Song An , Zhao Jiajun , Ren Luping , Chen Shuchun , Wei Limin , Ma Huijuan , Song Guangyao
Published: February 2021

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most common chronic liver diseases worldwide. High postprandial serum lipid concentrations have been reported in patients with metabolic syndrome. Meanwhile, postprandial triglyceride (TG) was found to be a potential replacement when fasting TG is not available. We aimed to investigate the relationship between postprandial TG concentration during oral fat tolerance testing (OFTT) and NAFLD. Methods : A total of 472 Chinese adults, aged 25 to 65 years enrolled in this study. All the participants underwent OFTT. Serum triglyceride and other lipid concentrations were measured, and their relationships with NAFLD were analyzed. Results: Of the 472 participants, 155 were diagnosed with NAFLD. The fasting and postprandial TG concentrations of the participants with NAFLD were higher than those of healthy participants (P<0.05). The TG concentrations of the healthy participants peaked 4 h postprandially, whereas those of the participants with NAFLD peaked 6 h postprandially and had higher peak values. Postprandial triglyceride concentration showed significant association with higher risk of NAFLD.Conclusions: Higher postprandial TG concentration is positively related to higher risk of NAFLD, and postprandial TG concnetrations of NAFLD patients were higher than healthy individuals with a delayed peak time. Hence, 4h postprandial TG maybe a potential indicator for NAFLD.Trial registration number: ChiCTR1800019514
Clinical Feature and Prognostic Factors for Repeatedly Recurrent Spinal Chondrosarcoma: A Retrospective Study of 49 Patients in One Single Institution.
Authors: Zhang Yue , Xu Yuduo , Miao Wenzhi , Wei Haifeng
Published: February 2021

Background: To investigate the clinical feature in prognostic prediction of repeatedly recurrent spinal chondrosarcoma (RRSC). The purpose of this study was to illustrate the clinical parameters of RRSC and to discuss the prognostic factors by statistical analysis.Methods: Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate independent prognostic factors for recurrence and death of patients with RRSC. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated by Kaplan-Meier curve, and differences were analyzed by log-rank test. Factors with P < 0.1 extracted by univariate analysis were subjected to multivariate analysis by Cox regression analysis. P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.Results: Included in this study were 49 patients with RRSC who were followed up by a mean of 31.7 months (median, 25 months; range, 5-93 months). Local recurrence was detected in 33 patients, with death in 28 patients. The final statistical analysis indicated that wide surgical margin (> 4 mm) was the most favorable prognostic factor for both recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Meanwhile, fewer number of recurrences (NOR) was in favor of RFS, and lower pathological grade was a significant favorable prognostic factor for OS.Conclusion: Wide surgical margin should be considered in predicting the prognosis of RRSC, including RFS as well as OS. NOR was significant prognostic indicator for RFS, and pathological grading was significantly associated with OS.
Forensic Pathological Analysis of Death Due to Pulmonary Thromboembolism: a Retrospective Study Based on 145 Cases
Authors: Chen Ziyuan , Wang Pengfei , Zhang Mengzhou , Wen Shuheng , Cheng Hao , Wang Ning , Wu Mingzhe , Li Bingxuan , Guo Xiangshen , Zhang Yujian , Guan Dawei , Wang Linlin , Zhao Rui
Published: February 2021

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is a common cause of sudden unexpected death in forensic practice following deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It remains easy to overlook the special procedure used for the detection of PTE during autopsies; therefore, the relationship between PTE and the associated risk factors is in need of analysis. In the present study, 145 fatal cases of PTE found during autopsies performed from 2004 to 2019 at the Center of Forensic Investigation of China Medical University were retrospectively evaluated; the demographic data, risk factors, original location of DVT, and time interval from the formation of DVT to PTE were analyzed. In addition, the difference in lung-to-heart weight ratio between the PTE and disease-free accident groups was calculated with matching for gender and age. The 40–59 age group accounted for more than half of the total cases (51.03%). Immobilization, trauma or fracture (especially of the pelvis, femur, tibia, or fibula), surgery, pregnancy and cesarean section, mental disorders and the use of antipsychotics were the top 5 high-risk factors for fatal PTE. Among the victims, 92.9% (130/140) died within 60 days of the first exposure to risk factors. Most DVT were formed and shed in lower limb veins, especially popliteal veins and their branches, which caused 87.6% of the thrombi distributed in bilateral pulmonary arteries. No significant difference in the lung-to-heart weight ratio was found between the PTE and control groups. The present study provides valuable information for the prevention and treatment of thrombosis during clinical events and may also be important for alerting forensic examiners to conduct special PTE detection in cases with potential risk factors.
Shared clinical decision-making experiences in nursing: A qualitative study
Authors: Chung Fen-Fang , Lin Shu-Chuan , Lee Yu-Hsia , Wang Pao-Yu , Wu Hon-Yen , Lin Mei-Hsiang
Published: February 2021

Background

Shared decision making (SDM) is a patient-centred nursing concept that emphasises the autonomy of the patient. It is a co-operative process of exchanging information, communication and response, and treatment decisions made between medical staff and patients. In this study, we explored the experience of clinical nursing staff participating in SDM.
Methods

We adopted a qualitative research method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 nurses at a medical centre in northern Taiwan. The data obtained from interview recordings were transferred to verbatim manuscripts. Content analysis was used to analyse and summarise the data.
Results

Clinical nursing staff should have basic professional skills, communication and response skills, respect and cultural sensitivity, the ability to form a co-operative team, the ability to search for and integrate empirical data, and the basic ability to edit media to participate in SDM.
Conclusions

The results of this study describe the experiences of clinical nursing staff participating in SDM, which can be used as a reference for nursing education and nursing administrative supervisors to plan and enhance professional nursing SDM in nursing education.
Non-Intubated Uniportal Subxiphoid Thoracoscopic Extended Thymectomy for Thymoma Associated with Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Zhong Jian , Sun Yang , Liu Zhengcheng
Published: February 2021

Background: To describe a technique of non-intubated uniportal subxiphoid thoracoscopic extended thymectomy.Methods: Data were collected retrospectively. A single 3-cm transverse incision was made below the xiphoid process. This method for extended thymectomy entails adoption of uniportal subxiphoid VATS combined with use of non-intubated anaesthesia for thymoma associated with myasthenia gravis.Results: 10 consecutive patients underwent this procedure successfully. Mean operative time was 102.5 minutes. Conversion to intubated ventilation or thoracotomy was not required. Mean chest tube duration was 3.5 days. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 4.7 days. Histologic examination showed early-stage thymomas. Complications were rare. Quantitative MG scores decreased during follow-up. Conclusions: Patients were uneventfully discharged with fast recovery. This technique may merge the potential benefits of a subxiphoid incision and the non-intubated anesthesia protocol.
Quantitative Characterization of Tumoural Leakage Phenomena Using Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast Perfusion Imaging 
Authors: Vankayalapati Sriharish , Kulanthaivelu Karthik , Lanka Vivek , Chakrabarti Dhritiman , Saini Jitender , Bhat Maya , Prasad Chandrajit , Pendharkar Hima , Kotwal Abhishek , Mangla Rajiv , Mankad Kshitij , BN Nandeesh , Rao Shilpa , Srini Dwarakanath
Published: February 2021

Purpose:Microvascular Leakiness varies between tumours. Extravascular leakage, hitherto the Achilles heel of Dynamic-Susceptibility-Contrast-Perfusion-Weighted-Imaging (DSC-PWI), has lately been quantified by leakage coefficient “K2”. To evaluate K2's diagnostic potential for differentiation of PCNSL, GBM and Mets and assess its relationships with other DSC-PWI metrics.Methods:Retrospective analysis of T2*-weighted DSC-PWI of PCNSL, Mets (n=10 each )and GBM n=16) was performed using a “Leakage Correction” model to generate K2 , uncorrected relative CBV (rCBVucor) and corrected rCBV (rCBVcor). Peak Signal Recovery (PSR) was calculated. Group-level statistical comparisons was made.Results:All PCNSL showed high-magnitude-positive K2 value with mean [SD] 846.1[462] while Mets showed high-magnitude-negative K2 value with mean [SD] -754[546]. In contrast, GBM showed varied values (overall with lower magnitude and positive) of K2 with mean [SD] 391.9[294.1]. The intergroup differences in K2 were statistically different (P 0.000). Lesion K2 (magnitude) exhibited a significant strong positive correlation with the magnitude of CBV correction (ρ 0.63) and with PSR (ρ 0.70). Conclusion:PCNSL had greater high-magnitude-positive-K2 compared with other tumour groups, while Mets were notable for a high-magnitude-negative-K2. K2 parameter obtained from T2*-weighted DSC technique characterizes and quantifies microvascular leakage of contrast and thus provides an alternative means of measuring permeability in tumours. K2 quantification adds adjunctive value to pre-operative discrimination of intra-axial neoplasms. Given the widespread acceptance that DSC-PWI has, K2 holds promise as an attractive alternative to (the methodologically challenging) DCE-PWI-derived permeability metric, Ktrans.
Phytoplankton and Zooplankton Diversity and Water Quality Assessment of Three Ponds in Hooghly District (West Bengal, India)
Authors: Karmakar Soudip
Published: February 2021

The present study focuses on the Phytoplankton and Zooplankton Diversity and Water quality assessment of three ponds in Hooghly District using the physiochemical and biological parameters, with due consideration to the Planktonic species. The study was carried out during the Spring and Summer season for a period of two months from 28th March to 28th July, 2020. The pollution levels of the ponds were determined with the help of Palmer’s Indices and were further supported by the physicochemical parameters. The Plankton assessment (qualitative) was associated with the physicochemical parameters like pH, TDS, EC, Calcium, Chlorides, Dissolved Oxygen, Phosphates, Nitrates, Bromides and Nitrites. Each pond are a well-managed fishpond, showed and Highest Shannon-Wiener Index diversity value 1.917, contaminated with organic waste matter, from adjacent cattle sheds, show higher Zooplankton abundance.
Is There a Role for Bronchial Biopsies in Patients Undergoing Bronchoscopy for Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis?
Authors: Kuint Rottem , Abutbul Avraham , Fridlender Zvi Gregorio , Laxer Uri , Berkman Neville
Published: February 2021

Background: Diagnosis of bronchiectasis mandates workup for etiology, and microbiological characterization often being sought via Bronchoscopy. However, whether to perform bronchial biopsies, is unknown. We aimed to assess the current practice and yield of different bronchoscopic procedures in this setting. Methods: Data from an adult cohort undergoing bronchoscopy for bronchiectasis was reviewed, including demographics, etiology, imaging and results of different bronchoscopic procedures performed. Results: 127 subjects were analyzed (mean age 61, 56% female). Inspection of the airways was abnormal in 31%; however, management changed in only one with a foreign body. BAL culture was positive in 44%. Frequent pathogens were Hemophilus Influenza (20%), pseudomonas aeruginosa (8%) and Staphylococcus aureus (7%). NTM and tuberculosis were found in 6% and 1.5% respectively. BAL cytology was performed in 125 procedures, EBB in 51 (40%) and TBLB in 38 (30%). EBB did not contribute to diagnosis in any of our subjects, while TBB showed positive findings in only a single case. Pathology and tissue culture had no benefit over BAL with respect to microbiological diagnosis. Conclusions: In adult subjects with Non-CF bronchiectasis requiring bronchoscopy, BAL cytology and bronchial biopsies are frequently performed but are of minimal additional benefit and should probably be avoided.
Comparison of Three Prediction Rules for Assessing the Risk of Gastric Cancer in Chinese Health Examination Populations
Authors: Xie Xiaolao , Lai Yuexing , Xu Ping , Xu Kai , Wang Jing , Wang Libo
Published: February 2021

Background The current consensus regarding gastric cancer screening in China recommends Li’s Scoring System to assess the risk of gastric cancer. Objectives To compare the predictive capacity of three prediction rules: the ABC method, the Scoring System from the Japan Public Health Center (JPHC), and Li’s Scoring System in Chinese health examination populations. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 1,436 patients undergoing gastroscopy. The patients were classified into three groups (low, medium and high risk) according to each rule. The predictive capacity of three rules to assess the risk of gastric cancer was compared. Results A total of 28 (1.95%) cases with gastric cancer were detected. The Scoring System from JPHC and Li’s Scoring System performed similarly, and the areas under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves (AUC) were 0.745 (95%CI: 0.722–0.767), and 0.739 (95%CI: 0.715–0.761), respectively. And the AUC for the ABC method was 0.642 (95%CI: 0.617–0.667), significantly lower than that for the Scoring System from JPHC (p < 0.05).Li’s Scoring System had the highest sensitivity, significantly higher than that of the Scoring System from JPHC (85.71% vs 53.57%, p<0.05). Larger proportions of low-risk patients were diagnosed as gastric cancer by the Scoring System from JPHC (1.99%) and ABC method (0.99%) than by Li’s Scoring System (0.55%). Conclusions The Scoring System from JPHC and Li’s Scoring System have a similar performance in assessing the risk of gastric cancer, but Li’s Scoring System is more effective in Chinese health examination populations because of the lowest probability of missed diagnosis.
Comparative Evaluation of the Visual and Refractive Outcomes Following SMILE, FS-LASIK, and T-PRK Surgery: A Retrospective, Non-Blinded Clinical Study
Authors: PIAO Junjie , Li Ying
Published: February 2021

Background: To comparatively evaluate of the visual and refractive outcomes after small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE), femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK), and transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (T-PRK) surgery.Methods: This was a retrospective, case-series, non-blinded clinical study. Consecutive eligible patients underwent SMILE, FS-LASIK, and T-PRK at the Department of Ophthalmology of Peking Union Medical Hospital, a tertiary referral center. All myopic patients were treated with corneal refractive surgery (SMILE, FS-LASIK, and T-PRK) using the VisuMax (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany) 500-kHz femtosecond laser system and the Amaris 750S excimer laser platform (SCHWIND eye-tech solutions, Kleinostheim, Germany). Visual and topographic astigmatism changes at 6 months were the main outcome measure. Secondary outcomes were the efficacy index at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively.Results: We recruited 75 consecutive patients (mean age, 27.88 ± 5.76 years; 68% women; all Asian) with no significant differences between groups in terms of preoperative demographic data, except in preoperative spherical equivalent (SE) (-5.54 ± 1.86 D, -5.64 ± 1.66 D, and -3.78 ± 1.30 D, respectively; P<0.001), astigmatism (1.24 ± 1.62 D, 1.16 ± 0.75 D, and 0.72 ± 0.42 D, respectively; P=0.008), and residual bed thickness (313.08 ± 32.18 μm, 427.59 ± 30.69 μm, and 427.09 ± 41.07 μm, respectively; P<0.001). A superior efficacy index was shown in SMILE and FS-LASIK compared to T-PRK 1 month after surgery.Conclusions: The results from this retrospective, non-blind, case-series clinical study suggest that all of the corneal refractive surgery options are safe and effective. However, while SMILE and FS-LASIK procedures have equal visual outcomes, they have superior efficacy index values in the early postsurgical period.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of genomic profiling in early breast cancer in Colombia
Authors: Rojas Leonardo , Rojas-Reyes María , Rosselli Diego , Cardona Andres F.
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe best strategy to establish indication for adjuvant chemotherapy in early breast cancer (EBC) in Colombia is unknown. This study aimed to identify the cost-effectiveness of various strategies to establish the necessity of adjuvant chemotherapy.MethodsThis study used an adapted decision-analytic model to compare cost and outcomes of care that includes Oncotype DX™ (ODX) or Mammaprint™ (MMP) test with routine care without ODX or MMP tests (application of adjuvant chemotherapy for all patients) over a 5-year time horizon, and the from the perspective of the Colombian National Health System (NHS) perspective (payer). Data were obtained from published literature and clinical trial database. The study population was composed of women with EBC, hormone-receptor positive (HR+), Her2-negative, lymph-node negative (LN0), with high-risk clinical criteria for recurrence. The outcome measures were incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER; 2019 United States Dollar [USD] per quality-adjusted life years [QALY] gained) and net monetary benefit (NMB).ResultsODX increases QALYs by 0.05 and MMP by 0.03 with savings of $2,445 and $570 compared with the standard strategy, respectively. The ICER for ODX was −$41,857 and that for MMP was −$18,253 per QALY; NMB was $2,821 and $771, respectively. Both tests were cost effective under defined threshold. When the two tests were compared, ODX was more cost effective than MMP. Sensitivity analysis revealed that, with a threshold of 1 GDP per capita, ODX will be cost effective in 95.5% of the cases compared with 70.2% of MMP. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed that ODX was a consistently superior strategy.ConclusionsGenomic profiling using ODX or MMP tests to define the need of adjuvant chemotherapy treatment in patients with HR + and Her2 − EBC is a cost-effective strategy that allows Colombian NHS saving money.
Air of Uncertainty from pollution profiteers: Status of ambient air quality of sawmill industry in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Raimi Morufu , Samson Timothy Kayode , Sunday Ajayi Bankole , Olalekan Adio Zulkarnaini , Emmanuel Odipe Oluwaseun , Jide Ogunleye Temitope
Published: February 2021

We can’t stop breathing, but we can do something about the quality of air that we breathe. Clean fresh air is indispensable ingredient for a good life quality. Individuals poses the right towards expecting that the breathed air will not harm people. Thus, fighting air pollution will not only improve health outcomes, productivity, and well-being, it’s also essential toward reducing the emissions of greenhouse gas as well as fighting climate change. For examples, a third of the global population is at risk from unhealthy of ambient air pollutants concentrations, with the loss of approximately 6.4 million healthy-life-years attributed specifically to chronic exposure to ambient particulate matter. Expert panels have consistently rated air pollution as a greater health hazard than water pollution. Pollution of air is the leading source of unexplained and undiagnosed diseases, besides have remained associated with a variety of serious human health risks, and in fact, a threshold has not been established under which these pollutants exert no adverse effects. This study evaluates ambient air quality at major sawmill sites in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria. “Measurements of Air pollution were accurately carried out using direct reading, automatic in situ gas monitors; Hand held mobile multi-gas monitor with model AS8900 [Combustible (LEL), and Oxygen (O2)], BLATN with model BR – Smart Series air quality monitor (PM10, Formaldehyde) and air quality multimeter with model B SIDE EET100 (Dust (PM2.5), VOC, Temperature and Relative Humidity)”. The outcomes disclosed among others, the average concentrations of CO, O2 as well as other measured parameters for instance formaldehyde (HcHo) etc., they are also consistently low as well as within acceptable range in terms of National as well as Global monitoring standards for air quality indices. However, there are few exceptions for instance the average volatile organic compounds (VOCs) concentrations, PM2.5, PM10 as well as Combustible (LEL) respectively, which are higher when compared to National and Global standards. This high figure is due to pollutant amount existing in the sawmills air environment resulting from input of influents from activities of the sawmill. However, as a result, air pollution in the city of Ilorin is found to be increasingly polluted and are of major health concern because of their synergistic action. Due to the high evidences and values, it can lead to a remarkable rise in over-all figure of hospital visits/ patients’ admissions with acute respiratory illnesses as soon as air pollutants level remained high. Hence, there is the need for an aggressive control of ambient air pollution.
Elevated preoperative D-dimer is associated with acute kidney injury after non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Zhou Yan , Yang Hong-Yun
Published: February 2021

aimed to analyze the relationship between preoperative D-dimer level and AKI following non-cardiac surgery.Method: This was a single-center retrospective cohort study for elective non-cardiac surgery from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2018. The endpoint was the occurrence of AKI 7 days postoperatively in the hospital. The non-linear relationship was described using the generalized additive model. ROC and minimum P-value approach identified possible cut-off points. D-dimer's odds ratio as continuous, quantile, and dichotomous variables by various cut-off points for postoperative AKI were calculated in multivariate logistic regression models before and after propensity score weighting.Results: Of the 55439 surgery, 5.0% (2779 cases) suffered postoperative AKI. Non-linearity was found between D-dimer and postoperative AKI. The odds ratio for D-dimer before and after propensity score weighting was (≤ 0.380 µg/mL as reference, minimum P-value cut-off point) 1.35 (1.20-1.49), P < 0.001 and 1.25 (1.09-1.43), P = 0.001, respectively; (≤ 0.165 µg/mL as reference, ROC cut-off point) 1.24 (1.12-1.37), P < 0.001 and 1.18 (1.06-1.31), P = 0.002, respectively. Sensitivity analysis showed similar results. Heterogeneity subgroup analysis showed that patients with normal preoperative creatinine, hemoglobin level, and intraperitoneal surgery or more complex surgery seemed to be more vulnerable to elevated D-dimer.Conclusions: Preoperative D-dimer was significantly associated with postoperative AKI following non-cardiac surgery. The optimal cut-off point for preoperative D-dimer was 0.165 µg/mL by ROC approach and 0.38 µg/mL by minimum P-value approach.
“I enjoy sex more without condoms": revisiting barriers and facilitators of consistent condom use among adolescents and young adults in South Africa
Authors: Ajayi Anthony Idowu , Omonaiye Olumuyiwa , Nwogwugwu Charlotte
Published: February 2021

Background Previous studies have examined consistent condom use correlates in South Africa, focusing on sociodemographic factors, HIV risk perceptions, relationship conflict, multiple sexual partners, and masculinity. However, the effect of family financial support, HIV testing, partner communication and self-efficacy for HIV prevention is less studied. We drew from a cross-sectional survey to address this gap and highlight the key barriers and facilitators of consistent condom use among young people. Methods We analysed data obtained from 631 unmarried sexually active male and females students selected using stratified sampling from a university in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Consistent condom use was defined as regular use of condoms in all sexual encounters in the past year. We used an open-ended question to probe the reasons for inconsistent condom use. Adjusted and unadjusted regression analysis were fitted to examine factors associated with consistent condom use. Results The prevalence of consistent condom use was 39.3% (CI: 35.5%-43.2%), with no significant gender and age differences. After adjusting for relevant covariates, living with foster parents (AOR; 1.80 95% CI; 1.09-2.97), adequate family financial support (AOR; 2.49 95% CI; 1.71-3.62), partner knew status (AOR; 1.91 95% CI; 1.09-3.37) and feeling confident in one's ability to prevent HIV (AOR; 1.77 95% CI; 1.09-2.86) were associated with increased odds of consistent condom use. However, self-report of low condom self-efficacy (AOR; 0.58 95% CI; 0.40-0.85) and alcohol use (AOR; 0.83 95% CI; 0.58-1.19) were associated with lower odds of consistent condom use. Young people who inconsistently used condoms reiterated that sex is often unplanned and condoms are not always available. The desire for maximum pleasure, partner's objection, trust, and use of hormonal contraceptives were further reasons others inconsistently use condoms.Conclusions Inconsistent condom use remains a challenge among unmarried sexually active young people in South Africa. Education of young people on the need for partner communication about HIV, HIV testing uptake, and condom use should happen more rigorously in school and through the media to improve their consistent use of condoms.
COVID-19 epidemic in the Brazilian state of Amazonas was driven by long-term persistence of endemic SARS-CoV-2 lineages and the recent emergence of the new Variant of Concern P.1
Authors: Naveca Felipe , Nascimento Valdinete , Souza Victor , Corado André , Nascimento Fernanda , Silva George , Costa Ágatha , Duarte Débora , Pessoa Karina , Mejía Matilde , Brandão Maria , Jesus Michele , Gonçalves Luciana , Costa Cristiano da , Sampaio Vanderson , Barros Daniel , Silva Marineide , Mattos Tirza , Pontes Gemilson , Abdalla Ligia , Santos João , Arantes Ighor , Dezordi Filipe , Siqueira Marilda , Wallau Gabriel , Resende Paola , Delatorre Edson , Gräff Tiago , Bello Gonzalo
Published: February 2021

The Northern Brazilian state of Amazonas is one of the most heavily affected country regions by the COVID-19 epidemic and experienced two exponential growing waves in early and late 2020. Through a genomic epidemiology study based on 250 SARS-CoV-2 genomes from different Amazonas municipalities sampled between March 2020 and January 2021 we revealed that the first exponential growth phase was driven mostly by the dissemination of lineage B.1.195 which was gradually replaced by lineage B.1.1.28. The second wave coincides with the emergence of the variant of concern (VOC) P.1 which evolved from a local B.1.1.28 clade in late November and rapidly replaced the parental lineage in less than two months. Our findings support that successive lineage replacements in Amazonas were driven by a complex combination of variable levels of social distancing measures and the emergence of a more transmissible VOC P.1 virus. These data provide unique insights to understanding the mechanisms that underlie the COVID-19 epidemic waves and the risk of disseminating SARS-CoV-2 VOC P.1 in Brazil and potentially worldwide.
Water quality evaluation and apportionment of pollution sources: a case study of the Baralia and Puthimari River (India)
Authors: Singh Kunwar Raghvendra , Goswami Ankit Pratim , Kalamdhad Ajay S. , Kumar Bimlesh
Published: February 2021

Water quality monitoring programs are indispensable for developing water conservation strategies, but elucidation of large and random datasets generated in these monitoring programs has become a global challenge. Rapid urbanization, industrialization and population growth pose a threat of pollution for the surface water bodies of the Assam, a state in northeastern India. This calls for strict water quality monitoring programs, which would thereby help in understanding the status of water bodies. In this study, the water quality of Baralia and Puthimari River of Assam was assessed using cluster analysis (CA), information entropy, and principal component analysis (PCA) to derive useful information from observed data. 15 sampling sites were selected for collection of samples during the period May 2016- June 2017. Collected samples were analysed for 20 physicochemical parameters. Hierarchal CA was used to classify the sampling sites in different clusters. CA grouped all the sites into 3 clusters based on observed variables. Water quality of rivers was evaluated using entropy weighted water quality index (EWQI). EWQI of rivers varied from 61.62 to 314.68. PCA was applied to recognise various pollution sources. PCA identified six principal components that elucidated 87.9% of the total variance and represented surface runoff, untreated domestic wastewater and illegally dumped municipal solid waste (MSW) as major factors affecting the water quality. This study will help policymakers and managers in making better decisions in allocating funds and determining priorities. It will also assist in effective and efficient policies for the improvement of water quality.