bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Shows Involvement of the p38 MAPK Pathway in Bovine Parainfluenza Virus type 3 Replication
Authors: Li Liyang , Li Pengfei , Chen Ao , Li Hanbing , Liu Zhe , Yu Liyun , Hou Xilin
Published: August 2021

Background: Bovine parainfluenza virus type 3 (BPIV3) infection often causes respiratory tissue damage and immunosuppression and results in bovine respiratory disease complex. Bovine respiratory disease complex is one of the major diseases in dairy cattle and causes huge economical losses every year. The pathogenetic and immunoregulatory mechanisms involved in the process of BPIV3 infection, however, remain unknown. Proteomics is a powerful tool for high-throughput identification of proteins and has been widely used to understand how viruses interact with host cells.Methods: In the present study, we report a proteomic analysis to investigate the whole cellular protein alterations of MDBK cells infected with BPIV3. To investigate the infection process of BPIV3 and the immune response mechanism of MDBK cells, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation analysis (iTRAQ) and Q-Exactive mass spectrometry-based proteomics were performed. The differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) involved in the BPIV3 invasion process in MDBK cells were identified, annotated, and quantitated.Results: A total of 116 proteins, which included 74 upregulated proteins and 42 downregulated proteins, were identified as DEPs between the BPIV3-infected and the mock-infected groups. These DEPs included corresponding proteins related to inflammatory response, immune response, and lipid metabolism. These results might provide some insights for understanding the pathogenesis of BPIV3. Fluorescent quantitative PCR and western blotting analysis showed results consistent with those of iTRAQ identification. Interestingly, the upregulated protein MKK3 was associated with the p38 MAPK signaling pathway.Conclusions: The results of proteomics analysis indicated BPIV3 infection could activate the p38 MAPKpathway to promote virus replication.
Optimal futures hedging strategies based on an improved kernel density estimation method
Authors: Yu Xing , Wang Xinxin , Zhang Weiguo , Li Zijin
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we study the hedging effectiveness of crude oil futures on the basis of the lower partial moments (LPMs). An improved kernel density estimation method is proposed to estimate the optimal hedge ratio. We investigate crude oil price hedging by contributing to the literature in the following two-fold: first, unlike the existing studies which focus on univariate kernel density method, we use bivariate kernel density to calculate the estimated LPMs, wherein the two bandwidths of the bivariate kernel density are not limited to the same, which is our main innovation point. According to the criterion of minimizing the mean integrated square error, we derive the conditions that the optimal bandwidths satisfy. In the process of derivation, we make a distribution assumption “locally” in order to simplify calculation, but this type of “local” distribution assumption is far better than “global” distribution assumption used in parameter method theoretically and empirically. Second, in order to meet the requirement of bivariate kernel density for independent random variables, we adopt ARCH models to obtain the independent noises with related to the returns of crude oil spot and futures. Genetic algorithm is used to tune the parameters that maximize Quasi-likelihood. Empirical results reveal that, at first, the hedging strategy based on the improved kernel density estimation method is of highly efficiency, then it achieves better performance than the hedging strategy based on the traditional parametric method. We also compare the risk control effectiveness of static hedge ratio vs. time-varying hedge ratio, and find that static hedging has a better performance than time-varying hedging.
Predictors of in-Hospital Mortality Among Suspected Stroke Patients, Mashhad, Iran: An Application of Autologistic Regression Model
Authors: Hadianfar Ali , Sasannezhad Payam , nazar Eisa , Saki Azadeh , Yousefi Razieh , Shakeri Mohammad Taghi , jafari Zahra
Published: August 2021

Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of death in adults worldwide. There are remarkable geographical variations in the accessibility to emergency medical services (EMS), and transport delays have been documented worldwide to affect stroke outcomes significantly. Therefore, this study examines whether there are spatial variations in in-hospital mortality among suspected stroke patients transferred by EMS and attempts to determine its related factors using the auto logistic regression model.Methods: In this historical cohort study, suspected stroke patients transferred to Ghaem Hospital of Mashhad by the EMS from March 2018 and March 2019 were included. Using emergency mission IDs, the baseline EMS data were integrated with the follow-up hospital records. The autologistic regression model was applied to examine the possible geographical variations in in-hospital mortality and its related factors. All analysis was carried out by SPSS version 16 and R 4.0.0 at the significant level of 0.05. Results: 1,222 suspected stroke patients were included in this study, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 14.2%. Overall in-hospital stroke mortality was related to age, accessibility rate of an ambulance, screening time, and length of stay (p<0.05). After stratifying by sex, we observed that mortality in men was related to age and length of stay, whereas, in women, variables of age, length of stay, accessibility rate of an ambulance, and screening time had a significant effect on in-hospital mortality among suspected stroke patients (p<0.05).Conclusion: Our results showed considerable geographical variations in in-hospital stroke mortality in Mashhad neighborhoods. Also, age- and sex-adjusted results from this study highlight the direct association between accessibility rate of an ambulance, screening time and length of stay, and in-hospital stroke mortality. The prognosis of in-hospital stroke mortality could be improved by reducing delay time and increasing the EMS access rate.
Knockdown of C3G Mitigates Post-Infarct Remodeling via Regulation of ERK1/2, Bcl-2 and Bax in Rat Myocardial Cells
Authors: Li Gang , Deng Qin , Hu Sulei , Laukkanen Jari A. , Liu Cheng , Tang Ning
Published: August 2021

Background: Cardiomyocyte-specific knockout of pro-survival integrin β1 subunit and its downstream components have been demonstrated to aggravate remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). However, as a component of integrin pathway, it is unclear whether knockdown of pro-survival C3G (rap guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1) in cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts could have effect on myocardial remodeling. Methods and results: A rat model of MI was established by ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery. Infarcted myocardium and its border zones in Sprague-Dawley rats were transiently infected with C3G knockout lentivirus via local injection to knockdown C3G in the myocardium. Twelve weeks after injection with the lentiviruses, cardiomyocytic apoptosis and collagen in surviving myocardium, and left ventricle (LV) end-diastolic diameter were decreased, whereas LV weight / body weight ratio and LV ejection fraction were increased in MI group via down-regulation of pro-survival C3G, phosphorylated (p) ERK1/2 (phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase 1/2) and Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma-2), and up-regulation of pro-apoptotic Bax in the surviving myocardium. On the other hand, treatment with the lentiviruses was found to delete C3G and diminish cell proliferation in vitro cardiac myocytic and fibroblastic cell lines respectively via down-regulation of p-ERK1/2 and Bcl-2, and up-regulation of Bax. Conclusions: Knockdown of pro-survival C3G in myocardium may mitigate surviving myocardial remodeling after MI, possibly through regulation of p-ERK1/2, Bcl-2 and Bax in vivo cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts.
Prenatal Diagnosis and Prognosis of Fetal Hyperechogenic Kidney: A Study of 80 Cases
Authors: HAN Jin , Huang YanJun , Ji Bing , liu Zequn , Xu Shuzheng , Zhen Li , Li Ru , Liao Can
Published: August 2021

Background
Prenatal diagnosis of fetal hyperechogenic kidney poses a challenge. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic reasons and prognosis of fetal hyperechogenic kidney diagnosed on prenatal ultrasonography.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 80 cases of prenatally diagnosed fetal hyperechogenic kidney by the obstetric ultrasound. The genetic characteristics and pregnancy outcomes were analyzed using chromosome karyotype analysis, chromosome microarray analysis, and whole-exome sequencing.
Results
Of the 80 cases, 48 (60%) were those of isolated fetal hyperechogenic kidney and 32 (40%) were those of non-isolated cases, including 4 cases (5%) of urinary system abnormalities, 7 (8.75%) of central nervous system abnormalities, 5 (6.25%) of cardiac abnormalities, and 16 (20%) of multiple abnormalities. Chromosome karyotype analysis and microarray analysis revealed 17 (21.25%) abnormalities, including isolated fetal hyperechogenic kidney (9, 11.25%) and chromosome microdeletion microduplication (17q12 microdeletion syndrome, Williams-Beuren syndrome, 4p16.3-p16.1 microduplication syndrome) (8, 10%). Moreover, 9 patients had single gene mutations, including those of BBS2, BBS7, HNF1B, ACE, CEP290, COL4A5, and PKHD1. Total 48 pregnancies were terminated (57.3%), and the remaining 32 fetuses survived and grew normally, the neonatal renal function tests were normal.
Conclusions
Fetal hyperechogenic kidney chromosome abnormalities are common, in particular, there is considerable prevalence of isolated fetal hyperechogenic kidney. Therefore, advances in prenatal diagnosis are crucial, if necessary, with the combined use of whole-exome sequencing and other comprehensive detection methods.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Associated New-Onset Primary Adrenal Insufficiency: A Retrospective Analysis Using The FAERS
Authors: Lu Difei , Yao Jun , Yuan Geheng , Gao Ying , Zhang Junqing , Guo Xiaohui
Published: August 2021

Background

Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence and demographic characteristics of immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated primary adrenal insufficiency (ICI-PAI), and to explore the risk factors of clinical outcome using data from the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).
Methods

This is a retrospective study. All cases of new-onset or newly-diagnosed primary adrenal insufficiency associated with FDA approved ICIs from 1st January 2007 to 31st December 2020 were identified and collected using FAERS. Data of age, sex category, body weight of participated individuals, the reporting year and the prognosis of cases, and other accompanied endocrinopathies related to ICIs were analyzed.
Results

The incidence of ICI-PAI was 1.03% (1180/114121). The application of the combination therapy of anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 was related to higher risk of PAI compared with anti-PD-1 group (χ2 = 92.88, p < 0.001). Male and elder individuals showed higher risk of ICI-PAI (male vs. female, 1.17% vs. 0.94%, χ2 = 12.55, p < 0.001; age < 65 vs. ≥65, 1.20% vs. 1.41%, χ2 = 6.89, p = 0.009). The co-occurrence rate of other endocrinopathies aside from PAI was 24.3%, which showed a higher trend in patients on nivolumab-ipilimumab treatment compared with those on PD-1 inhibitors (χ2 = 3.227, p = 0.072). Body weight was negatively associated with the risk of death in the study population [p = 0.033 for the regression model; B=-0.017, OR 0.984, 95%CI (0.969–0.998), p = 0.029].
Conclusions

ICI-associated PAI is a rare but important irAE. Male and elder patients have higher risk of ICI-PAI. Awareness among clinicians is critical when patients with lower body weight develop PAI, which indicates poor clinical outcomes.
Transcriptome Analysis Identified Core Genes Involved in Maize Resistance to Rhizoctonia Solani
Authors: Cao Hongxiang , Yang Zhangshuai , Song Shu , Liu Jiazong , Li Ning
Published: August 2021

BackgroundBanded leaf and sheath blight (BLSB) caused by the necrotrophic fungus Rhizoctonia solani is a devasting disease on maize worldwide, especially in China and Southeast Asia. It is important to understand the interaction mechanism between maize and R. solani for control of invasion and expansion.ResultsIn this study, the expression profile of maize infected by low virulence strain (LVS) and high virulence strain (HVS) of R. solani for 3 and 5 d was analyzed by RNA-sequencing. A total of 3015 and 1628 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified under LVS and HVS infection, respectively. Meanwhile, these DEGs were classified by Gene Ontology (GO) for biological process analysis. Only defense-related GO terms were commonly enriched in LVS- and HVS-regulated genes. Furthermore, a core set of 388 up-regulated genes that are involved in maize response to R. solani infection were identified. Additionally, among the core genes, overexpressing ZmNAC41 and ZmBAK1 enhanced rice resistance to R. solani.ConclusionThe results in this study provide additional insight into maize defense mechanisms against R. solani, and the core genes identified in this study will be important resources for improving BLSB resistance in the future.
Surgical Case Order is an Independent Risk Factor for Postoperative Infection in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Wu Dengying , Jia Chao , Lu Hongwei , Zhou Shuoyi , wu Zheng , Xie Chenglong , Xue Enxing
Published: August 2021

Background: Total knee arthroplasty is regarded as the most effective treatment for severe knee joint problems. Surgery case order influences operative outcomes according to previous studies. This study aims to evaluate the effect of surgical case order on operative outcomes for TKA.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 4,267 TKAs performed by three surgeons at our hospital from February 2008 to February 2018. Variables, such as surgical time, loss of blood, and hospitalization stay, were also recorded and analysed. Logistic regression was used to analyse every variable as a potential risk for a surgical site infection.Results: Of the 4267 cases in this cohort, 1531 TKAs were classified as first-round cases, 1194 TKAs were second-round cases, 913 TKAs were third-round cases, 490 TKAs were fourth-round cases, and 139 were fifth-round or later cases. The mean operating time was shorter in intermediate cases (P< 0.01). Perioperative adverse events were increased in later surgical cases (P< 0.01). Later case order (OR= 1.29 [95% CI: 1.17–1.56], P<0.01) was a significant risk factor for severe arthroplasty complications. The operative time and length of stay were increased for cases performed later in the day. However, blood loss is not statistically associated with case order. Conclusions: Surgical case order is an independent risk factor for surgical infection. Significantly increased operative time and longer LOS were noted for third-round or later TKA cases. Our results identify potentially modifiable risk factors contributing to infection rates in TKA, and cases operated on later in the day in the same room were more likely to have a higher infection risk.
Maternal Exposure to Sevoflurane Disrupts Oligodendrocyte Myelination of the Postnatal Hippocampus and Induces Cognitive and Motor Impairments in Offspring
Authors: Fan Ze , Liang Lirong , Ma Ruixue , Xie Rougang , Zhao Youyi , Zhang Ming , Guo Baolin , Zeng Tian , He Danyi , Zhao Xianghui , Zhang Hui
Published: August 2021

Maternal exposure to sevoflurane can impose significant neurocognitive risks on the developing brain of infants. Several studies have indicated that oligodendrocytes may be involved in sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity, but the concrete effects of sevoflurane on the development and myelination of oligodendrocytes remain unclear. In this study, we assessed fetal myelination and neural behavior after maternal exposure to sevoflurane. Pregnant C57BL/6J mice (gestational day 15.5) were exposed to sevoflurane (2.5%) for 6 h. The cognitive function and motor coordination of offspring (8 weeks of age) were determined via the novel object recognition test, the Morris water maze test and the accelerating rotarod test. Proliferation and differentiation of cultured oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) were detected via immunocytochemistry. Expression and ultrastructure of myelin in the fetal hippocampus were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Myelin-associated genes and proteins were tested via qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence and western blotting. The functionality of myelin was evaluated by electrophysiology. The results showed that maternal exposure to sevoflurane induced cognitive and motor impairments in infants, accompanied by inhibitions of OPC proliferation and differentiation, and damages of myelin structure. Myelin-associated genes and proteins (including MBP, Olig1, PDNFRα, Sox10, etc.) were downregulated. The conduction velocity of axons also declined. These results suggested that maternal exposure to sevoflurane could induce detrimental effects on cognitive and motor functions in offspring, which might be associated with disrupted myelination of oligodendrocytes in the hippocampus.
Effect of Vasopressin and its Analogs versus Catecholamines on the Renal Outcomes in Septic Shock:A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Yusuf Amina Elmi , He Wei , YU Rongjie , Sun Liqun
Published: August 2021

Background: This current systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association of Vasopressin and its analogs and adverse renal outcomes compared to Catecholamines in adult patients with septic shock. Method: We performed a systematic review of the literature published from inception to March 31, 2021, using online databases of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library. Randomized controlled trials reporting any renal function and comparing Vasopressin and its analogs with Catecholamines among adult septic shock patients. Our primary outcomes relating to acute renal failure were acute kidney injury incidence and the need for Renal replacement therapy. Our secondary outcomes were three: Renal replacement therapy free-days and 48h post-administration change in creatinine level and urine output. We applied a fixed-effects model to estimate the risk ratio (RR) for (dichotomized outcomes) and standard mean difference (SMD) for (continues outcomes). Results: 18 trials met the inclusion criteria with a total of 4,024 patients. 13 studies were eligible for quantitative meta-analysis and 5 studies were eligible for qualitative data. For the primary outcome, Vasopressin or its agonist are associated with a lower AKI incidence (Risk ratio 0.93, 95% CI [0.86, 1.00], P = 0.04, I² = 5%) and a reduced need for renal replacement therapy (Risk ratio 0.84, 95% CI [0.73, 0.97], P = 0.02, I² = 11%). We found no statistical significance in the pooled estimates for the secondary outcomes: RRT free-days (28 or 30 days) (P = 0.65, I² = 0%), 48h creatinine level (P = 0.81, I² = 39%), and 48h urine output (P = 0.46, I² = 8%). Conclusions: Vasopressin and its analogs are associated with a reduced AKI incidence and a lower RRT use rate in septic shock compared to catecholamines. Furthermore, we did not find a significant effect of Vasopressin on the number of RRT- free days (up to 28 or 30 days) or in creatinine level and urinary output in 48 hours. However, due to the high mortality associated with S-AKI, large blinded RCTs addressing renal function impairment in septic shock are warranted.
Pre-Earthquake Ionospheric Anomalies Associated with the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake of Nepal Detected by GPS-TEC Measurements
Authors: Karki Monika , Silwal Ashok , Chapagain Narayan Prasad , Poudel Prakash , Gautam Sujan Prasad , Adhikari Binod , Dahal Ranjan Kumar , Ghimire Basu Dev , Mishra Roshan Kumar , Orue Yenca Migoya , Calabia Andres
Published: August 2021

The present study analyses the variations in the ionospheric total electron content (TEC) prior to and during the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake in Nepal (Mw = 7.8) on 25 April 2015, utilising data from the widely distributed Global Positioning System (GPS) network. This study aimed to determine the association between ionospheric TEC anomalies and the occurrence of earthquakes. The finding shows that anomalous TEC changes occurred several days to a few hours prior to the major impending events. The results reveal that deviations in vertical total electron content (VTEC) at distant locations from the epicentre are less than those observed at the epicentre, implying that variation in ionospheric VTEC is nearly inversely proportional to the distance of GPS stations from the epicentre. In view of the solar-terrestrial environment, the pre-earthquake ionospheric anomalies could be associated with the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake. The VTEC anomaly was identified when it crosses the upper bound (UB) or lower bound (LB). The outcomes additionally show that TEC variation was dominant in the vicinity of the earthquake epicentre. We also observed contrast in TEC throughout the globe using global ionospheric maps at regular 2-hour UT intervals, the day before, during and after the earthquake. As a result, we observed that areas heavily influenced by TEC were found to be transposed from eastern sectors to western sectors through the equatorial plane. TEC Maps indicate that most of the Indian regions, Northern China, Nepal, Bhutan, were heavily affected, indicating the earthquake's onset influence on the day of the event. Furthermore, we examined the cross-correlation of the SGOC station's TEC with the rest of the stations and discovered that the correlation increased gradually with epicentral distance from the surrounding stations, which was an intriguing result.
Genotypic Characteristics of African Swine Fever Virus Maintained in Various Outbreaks in Vietnam During 2019-2021
Authors: Nguyen Nam Minh , Ngo Tram Thi Ngoc , Nguyen Duyen Thi Minh , Nguyen Hai Ngoc , Nguyen Trang Thi Phuong , Lee Jason , Nguyen Toan Tat , Do Duy Tien
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to identify potential genetic diversity among African swine fever virus (ASFV) strains circulating in central and southern Vietnam. Thirty ASFV strains were collected from domestic pigs and convalescent pigs with ASFV-infected clinical signs from 19 different provinces of central and southern Vietnam during 2019–2021. A portion of the B646L (p72) gene and the entire E183L (p54), CP204L (p30), and B602L (CVR) genes were amplified, purified, and sequenced. Web-based BLAST and MEGA-X software were used for sequence analysis. Analysis of the partial B646L (p72) gene, the full-length E183L (p54) and CP204L (p30) genes, and the central hypervariable region (CVR) of the B602L gene sequence showed that all 30 ASFV isolates belonged to genotype II and were 100% identical to the previously identified strains in Vietnam and China. Analysis of the p72, p54, and p30 regions did not indicate any change in the nucleotide and amino acid sequences among these strains in 3 years of research. No novel variant was found in the CVR within the B602L gene. Analysis of the CVR showed that these ASFV strains belong to subgroup XXXII. The results of this study revealed that these ASFVs shared high homology with ASFV isolates detected previously in northern Vietnam and China. Taken together, the results of this study and a previous study in Vietnam showed high stability and no genetic diversity in the ASFV genome.
Effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on mental health in a UK student sample.
Authors: Catling Jon , Bayley Anna , Begum Zaynah , Wardzinski Charlotte , Wood Amy
Published: August 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions placed upon society have had a profound impact on both physical and mental health, particularly for young people.
Aims

The current study assesses the impact of COVID-19 on student mental health
Method:

Four hundred and thirty four first year Undergraduate students completed a battery of self-report questionnaires to assess the variables of interest with data being collected over a two year period. The data from each year was compared (216 and 218 students respectively).
Results

A MANOVA revealed that COVID-19 had a significant impact on self-reported levels of depression, anxiety and smartphone addiction – which all significantly increased from the 2020 to the 2021 cohort. The percentage of students who had a score which warranted a clinical diagnosis of depression increased from 30–44%, and for anxiety increased from 22 to 27% – those students who had a comorbid diagnosis rose from 12–21%. Smartphone addiction levels rose from 39–50%. Correlational analysis showed a significant relationship between Smartphone usage and depression and anxiety.
Conclusions

This research suggests that COVID-19 has had a major impact upon student mental health, and smartphone addiction. The importance of identifying predictive factors of depression and anxiety is emphasised, and suggestions for intervention are discussed.
New 3-D Combined Inversion Scheme Using Response Functions Free From Galvanic Distortion
Authors: Usui Yoshiya , Uyeshima Makoto
Published: August 2021

The combined inversion using distortion-free response functions is an effective approach to robustly estimate the 3-D electrical resistivity structure against the distortions caused by near-surface resistivity anomalies. However, previous combined inversion analyses have presented a significant dependency of the inversion results on initial and prior models. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of the following two new types of 3-D combined inversion using distortion-free response functions: one uses the phase tensor and the vertical and inter-station horizontal magnetic transfer functions, while the other uses the Network-MT response functions, in addition to the former. Because long dipoles are used, the Network-MT response function is negligibly affected by galvanic distortion. To access the combined inversion approach, we developed a novel 3-D inversion scheme combining the response functions of the usual magnetotelluric measurements and the Network-MT response function. The synthetic inversion analysis demonstrated that both of the proposed combined inversions can recover the characteristic resistivity distributions of the target model without a significant dependence on the initial models, at least in the shallow part. These results demonstrate that the combined inversions using only distortion-free response functions have the potential to estimate subsurface resistivity more robustly than what was previously thought. Furthermore, we confirmed that the combined inversion using the Network-MT response function can make the resultant resistivity structure closer to the actual one and enhance the stability of the inversion. This result suggests that the combined use of the Network-MT response function is the preferred approach.
Prevalence and Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Schistosomiasis in the City of Barra Mansa, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Espírito-Santo Maria Cristina Carvalho , Chieff Pedro Paulo , de Paula Fabiana Martins , França Francisco Oscar Siqueira , Gomes Filumena Maria Silva , Castilho Vera Lúcia Pagliusi , Gonçalves Elenice Messias Nascimento , Luna Expedito José Albuquerque , Pinto Pedro Luiz Silva , Pinto João Renato Rebello , Gryschek Ronaldo Cesar Borges
Published: August 2021

Background Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are caused by several species of protozoa and helminths and are among the most frequent infections in many regions of the world, particularly in countries with limited access to adequate conditions of hygiene and basic sanitation, and have significant morbidity. There are few studies that assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites in Latin America. We investigated the prevalence of intestinal infections in five neighborhoods in the city of Barra Mansa / RJ / Brazil. Objective To evaluate the prevalence of geohelminths, protozoa and Schistossoma mansoni infection, using two parasitological methods in a population in a city in the state of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). Methods Cross-sectional cohort study, conducted from September 2010 to April 2011, in individuals over five years old, to assess the prevalence of IPIs in 5 peripheral neighborhoods of Barra Mansa, a city located in the state of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil): Siderlândia, Cantagalo, São Luiz, Nova Esperança and Santa Clara, through the combination of two parasitological methods, Kato-Katz and Hoffman, having analyzed a total of six slides for each of the research participants. Results Results of samples from 610 individuals were collected and analyzed using the Kato-Katz (KK) and Hoffman (HH) methods. Approximately 60% of the individuals were female, with an average age of 39.72 years. Five hundred and fifty-one (84.8%) had access to treated water and 486 (74.8%) to the sewage network. The neighborhood of Siderlândia contributed most of the casuistry (42.9%). About 4% of participants reported a previous history of schistosomiasis. Six hundred and ten stool samples were evaluated using the Kato-Katz and Hoffmann methods. The results of parasitological examinations by the KK method showed low positivity for any diagnosed parasitosis. The HH method showed a more significant number of parasitic infections, with a higher frequency of Endolimax nana (17.4%), followed by Blastocystis spp (10.8%). The positivity in stool tests using the KK or HH methods was significantly higher in the Santa Clara neighborhood (p = 0.038), in people who use river water (p <0.001) and in people who reported having had schistosomiasis previously (p = 0.021). Conclusions The use of two stool samples examined by the KK and HH methods improved the detection sensitivity and evidenced the low prevalence of IPIs in the city of Barra Mansa (RJ) / Brazil.
Fly Ash Based Geopolymers With Refractoriness Properties in the Context of Circular Economy
Authors: Zarębska Katarzyna , Zabierowski Piotr , Gazda-Grzywacz Magdalena , Czuma Natalia , Baran Paweł
Published: August 2021

Nowadays appropriate waste management, along with efficient use of natural resources and implementing the concept of circular economy are an issue of high concern. The aim of the research was to synthesize geopolymers showing insulating properties, with specific strength and refractoriness parameters. For this purpose, waste from the energy sector was used which is produced in large quantities. The analyses were an attempt to manage fly ashes according to the concept of circular economy. For the synthesis of geopolymers perlite additive was used, the literature on the subject indicated that its addition had a positive effect on the refractoriness of the obtained materials. The SII4 geopolymer fully meets the requirements for thermal insulation in Poland (0.086 W/m∙K), as a material for single-layer walls. Of the two variables analyzed in the study, i.e., the influence of the mixture composition on the synthesis and the curing temperature of the geopolymer, only the first had a significant influence on the value of the thermal conductivity coefficient.
Effect of Continuous Hypertonic Saline Infusion on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury: A Retrospective Causal Analysis
Authors: Peng Chi , Yang Fan , Zhang Chenxu , Bo Lulong , Yu Jian , Peng Liwei , Li Weixin , Jin Zhichao
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Intracranial pressure (ICP) control has long been recognized as an important requirement for traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. Nevertheless, the long-term effect of hypertonic saline (HTS) remains unknown. The aim of this study was to elucidate the effect on clinical outcomes in TBI patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) settings.Methods: We retrospectively identified moderate to severe TBI patients from two public databases named Medical Information Mart for the Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV and eICU Collaborative Research Database (eICU-CRD). A marginal structural Cox model (MSCM) was used, with time-dependent variates designed to reflect exposure over time during the ICU stay. A trajectory modeling, based on intracranial pressure evolution pattern, allowed identification of subgroups. Results: Overall, in our cohort of 1955 eligible patients, 130 (6.65%) received HTS. MSCM indicated that the HTS was significantly associated with better Glasgow coma score [(GCS): hazard ratio (HR) 1.19, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.01-1.40, p = 0.041], higher infection complications [eg. urinary tract infection (HR 1.88, 95% CI 1.26-2.81, p = 0.002)], and increased ICU LOS (HR 2.02, 95% CI 1.71-2.40, p < 0.001). A protective effect from GCS by the HTS was found in the subgroup with medium and low ICP. Conclusion: Our study revealed no significant difference in the all-cause mortality rates between patients receiving HTS or not. Increased occurrence rates of infection and electrolyte imbalance were inevitable outcomes caused by continuous HTS infusion. Although the study suggested the slight beneficial effects including better neurological outcome, the results warrant further validation.
Resection and Reconstruction of Acetabular Tumors involving Ischium and Inferior pubic bone with a Total Hip Replacement Using Posterior K-L Approach
Authors: ZUO DONGQING , Yu Mingyang , Mu Haoran , Sun Mengxiong , Shen Jiakang , Wang Chongren , Wang Hongsheng , Ma Xiaojun , Ruan Qi , Lv Yu , Sun Wei , Cai Zhengdong
Published: August 2021

Background: To explore the feasibility and short-term effect of posterior K-L (Kocher Langenbeek) approach in treating pelvic acetabular tumors involving ishium, inferior ramus of pubis. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients with acetabular tumors involving ishium, inferior ramus of pubis underwent surgery in Shanghai General Hospital from January 2016 to June 2020 with modified K-L approach, including 8 women and 12 men, patients aged from 19-76 years, including 6 chondrosarcomas, 6 osteosarcomas, 3 metastatic pelvic tumors, 2 epithelioid sarcomas, 3 giant cell tumor of bone. 20 patients were defined as pelvic Ennecking zone II + pelvic zone III involvement. All patients were followed up regularly in clinic, operation time, intraoperative bleeding, methods of reconstruction, duration of hospitalization, perioperative complications were recorded, and MSTS functional score was used to evaluate the patients' functional status.Results: All patients were followed up regularly in clinic with a mean 32 months (20-48 months). No patient died in the perioperative period, the average intraoperative bleeding was 1250 ml (800-2400 ml) in 10 patients, the mean operation duration was 2.6 hours (2-3.5 hours), no wound infection and delayed healing, the average duration of hospital stay was 12 days (10-16 days), the main complications during the follow-up included nervus cutaneus femoris posterior paralysis, 2 tumor recurrence, MSTS score was 22.5 points. 4 patients died during follow-up. Conclusions: The posterior K-L approach can be employed to effectively resect and reconstruction pelvic acetabular tumors invoving ishium, inferior ramus of pubis and reconstruct them properly. It is mainly suitable for malignant pelvic tumors involving the pelvic III and II + III regions. It also can often be available for biological reconstruction by using the acetabulum tantalum metal block, acetabulum reinforcing ring or autograft femur head. It is of highly safety and few perioperative complications, which is worth popularizing.
Comparison of Standard and Point of Care CD4+ T Lymphocyte Measurement Methods in HIV-1 Infected Turkish Patients
Authors: Deniz Müge Toygar , Akhan Sıla , Sayan Murat
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: CD4 + T lymphocytes are the primary targets of HIV infection. Absolute CD4 + T lymphocyte count is an indicator of immune competence in evaluating the stage of the disease, delayed diagnosis, need for prophylaxis against opportunistic infections and the treatment success. In this study, we aimed to compare standard flow cytometry and point of care CD4 + T lymphocyte measurement analysis techniques in terms of cost, effectiveness, compliance, reliability, time and the use of this method for disease progression for the HIV-1 infected Turkish patients. Methods: This study includes 116 patients with chronic HIV infection. Patients under treatment, over 18 years old are included. CD4 + T lymphocyte count and percentage were enumerated by flow cytometry, which is the gold standard method. Also hemoglobin level was studied. These parameters were also studied with a new POC method called Cartridge. The data obtained by two methods are compared. Results: Of the 113 patients, 96 (85%) were male, 17 (15%) were female, and the mean age of the group was 43. When compared two methods, Spearman's correlation coefficients demonstrated good correlation for hemoglobin (r = 0.764). For CD4 + T lymphocyte measurements, correlation coefficients were lower (r = 0.725 and 0.515 respectively) but still statistically significant (p < 0.001). According to Bland-Altman analysis, the average difference for hemoglobin shows strong correlation for different measurements. Conclusions: In resource-limited countries, not all patients can receive ART. Therefore, this test is important in order to instantly detect patients who are in urgent compliance to initiate treatment with CD4 measurement. Hemoglobin measurement is the best parameter between the two methods that can be compared in our opinion because it is determined in a more standardized way. As we found in our study, the high correlation of hemoglobin values may give an idea about the reliability of the new method.
What Is the Regional Differences in Carbon Emission Performance: Evidences From Energy-intensive Industries in China?
Authors: Chen Yao , Wu Jing
Published: August 2021

As the major energy consumers, energy-intensive industries are the key players in achieving carbon emission reduction targets. Grasping the carbon emission reduction potential has a direct impact on the implementation of the carbon emission reduction policies of China. The paper builds a super-Slack Based Model(SBM) considering this undesirable output, and calculates the carbon emission efficiency. Then, the Meta-Frontier Malmquist-Luenberger productivity index (MF-MLPI) is constructed to dynamically analyse the growth rate changes of the carbon emission efficiency and the regional differences in energy-intensive industries. Furthermore, the carbon emission reduction potential of the energy-intensive industries in various economic regions of China is discussed and the conclusions are as follows: there is a big difference in the carbon emission Technology Gap Ratios (TGRs) of the energy-intensive industries in different economic regions; the growth rate of the carbon emission efficiency of energy-intensive industries shows a trend of first declining and then slowly recovering while the carbon reduction potential generally shows a trend of decreasing and then rising; and the carbon emission reduction potential in the eastern region keeps decreasing. The following is recommended: the government should rationally distribute energy-intensive industries, promote industrial structure adjustment, optimize the energy structure according to the regional industrial advantages; increase investment in R&D, promote energy technology innovation in energy-intensive industries; prioritize the promotion of carbon peaks on key emission industries and regional, formulate differentiated plans for the regions and industries with different carbon emission reduction potentials.
Precordial Heart Image Disappearance: An Uncommon New Specific Ultrasound Sign for Diagnosing Neonatal Pneumothorax and its Thoracentesis Treatment at the Precardiac Area- an Pilot Study Reports from Two Centers
Authors: Liu Jing , Yan Wei , Yang Jian-Wei , Guo Guo , Qiu Ru-Xin
Published: August 2021

Background: Use of lung ultrasonography (LUS) to diagnose neonatal pneumothorax (PTX) has been well documented. This study aimed to emphasize the value of precordial heart image (PHI) disappearance as an ultrasound sign to diagnose neonatal PTX and to perform thoracentesis at the precardiac area in patients with PTX.Methods: From March 2017 to May 2021,a total of 288 infants were included in this retrospective study, including 48 patients with PTX,48 patients with respiratory distress syndrome,48 patients with transient tachypnea,48 patients with meconium aspiration syndrome,48 patients with pneumonia,and 48 patients with normal lung tissue.LUS was performed routinely,and thoracentesis was performed under LUS guidance.Results: Eight of 48 patients with PTX (16.7%) presented with PHI disappearance on LUS,which exhibited a sensitivity of 16.7% and a specificity of 100% for diagnosing neonatal PTX.Needle aspiration was performed on 42 patients with PTX (87.5%),8 of whom underwent puncture at the precardiac area. Satisfying results were obtained in 40 patients (95.2%) without any complications.Conclusion: PHI disappearance is an uncommon ultrasound sign on LUS that can be used to diagnose neonatal PTX.Selection of the precardiac area as the puncture site is safe for the treatment of neonatal PTX in patients with PHI disappearance.
Effect of a Community Based Social Marketing Strategy on the Uptake of Clean Delivery Kits in Peri-Urban Communities of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Usmani Asra , Sultana Shazia , Nisar Imran , Zaidi Shehla , Jehan Imtiaz , Zaidi Anita
Published: August 2021

Background: Neonatal and maternal mortality is high in Pakistan. More than half of all deliveries take place at homes by unskilled birth attendants and unhygienic practices are common. The objective of our study was to determine the effect of a community based strategy of social marketing promoting clean delivery kits on the uptake of clean delivery kits for use in home deliveries in peri-urban communities of Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: Following a baseline survey of women who delivered in previous three months as a reference group, end line survey was conducted of women who delivered post intervention to assess need, use and availability of clean delivery kits. Availability of these kits was ensured at accessible stores in these communities. Quantitative component comprised of the baseline and post intervention surveys while qualitative information was sought from focus group discussions. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze quantitative data and ground theory to analyze qualitative data.Results: 603 women were surveyed in the baseline survey and 568 women in the end-line survey. The proportion of women using CDKs in home deliveries increased from 9.3% in the baseline survey to 23.8% (p=<0.05) after the social marketing intervention in the end-line survey. 40% of women reported non-use of kits due to inability to pay for it. However, focus group discussions revealed that many women thought that the kits should be free or should be included in the amount charged by birth attendants. After adjusting for other variables, age of the woman and education of the husband were found significantly associated with use of clean delivery kits in home deliveries. Conclusions: Social marketing strategy targeting pregnant women and their family members can play a significant role in improving use of clean delivery kits in home deliveries. However, many women expect that the cost of the kit to be included in charges paid to birth attendants. A combined approach targeting both pregnant women as well as traditional birth attendants may improve clean delivery kit use to higher levels and be sustainable in the long-run.
Effect of Ozone on Apelin and APJ Expressions in Rat Peritonitis-Constituted With Colon Anastomosis
Authors: Kilinc Leyla , Avci Sema , Soylu Hakan , Cakir Tugrul , Aslaner Arif , Akkoyunlu Gökhan , Ustunel Ismail
Published: August 2021

Background: Analyze the effect of ozone therapy on Apelin and APJ expressions in peritonitis constituted colon anastomosis.Methods: Eighteen male Wistar albino rats weighing 250-300 g were used in this study. The rats were randomly assigned into three groups. In the colonic tissue samples Hematoxylin-Eosin staining (HE) and the Apelin and APJ immunostaining was applied. Also, Apelin and APJ protein levels between groups were determined with the Western-Blot method.Results: In the ozone therapy group, Apelin and APJ immunoreactivity was decreased compared to the anastomosis group. The protein levels of Apelin and APJ according to Western-Blot analysis are consistent with immunostaining. Conclusion: As a result, increased levels of Apelin and APJ in cecal punctuation and colonic anastomosis process can be deduced and said to contribute to worsening of tissue while it may be involved in return to normal of with treatment.
Semiconducting Poly (1-Aminoanthroquinone) Nanoscale Materials: Synthesis, Morphological Aspects and Novel Catalytic Applications
Authors: Sakthivel C. , Nivetha A. , Philip C. Suresh , I PRABHA
Published: August 2021

The intrinsic semiconducting poly (1-aminoanthraquinone) (PAAQ) was synthesized by simple oxidative polymerization of 1-aminoanthraquinone (1-AAQ) as a starting monomer at 25, 40 and 50 °C in the biphasic system. In this study 70 % of perchloric acid (HClO4) was used to enhance the acidity and 30 % of hydrogen peroxide was acted as an oxidant. The synthesized polymers were undergone studies for their crystalline nature, surface morphology, optical behavior, and electrochemical potential using XRD, SEM, UV-Vis, Fluorescence, FT-IR, DLS, and CV techniques respectively. The average crystalline size were found to be 45.47, 45.88, 45.51 nm and its band gap energies were 3.95, 3.89, 3.70, 3.55 eV at 25, 40 and 50 °C respectively. The SEM images reveal the formation of well-defined nanocubes with sheets and the average particles size was 75 nm. The efficiency in electrochemical properties of synthesized PAAQ polymerare evident from its redox peaks and in impedance curve. The synthesized PAAQ polymer at 25 °C have showed an optimized catalytic conversion of CO2 to CO3 and the stabilized shielding property against X-Ray irradiation during radiation therapy.
Risk and protective factors for acute mountain sickness: a meta-analysis
Authors: Recalde Sergio , Alargunsoro Leire , Milagro Fermin I. , Ibañez Ricardo , Villegas Andrea , Sáez Victor J. , Cires Manuel , Garcia-Garcia Laura
Published: August 2021

BackgroundCurrently, many people reach 3000-meter summits or greater. Some of these climbers suffer from acute mountain sickness (AMS), while others remain symptom-free. Some risk factors for AMS are well defined, such as lack of pre-acclimatization, rapid ascent, maximum altitude, and resilience at low altitude. However, there are other poorly described associated factors, such as sex, age, smoking, body mass index, medication use, and awareness or history of AMS. The objective of this meta-analysis was to establish the risk and protective factors associated with AMS. MethodsPubMed, UNIKA, and Scopus databases were searched in July 2020 for articles to include in the analysis. AMS was separately evaluated by the Lake Louise Score (LLS) and Hackett’s Score (HS). After screening and application of eligibility criteria, 14 articles were included in the meta-analysis (LLS = 12 and HS = 2). ResultsA total of 18,938 participants were included in the study with 17,450 in the LLS group and 1,488 in the HS group. In the LLS group, smoking (odds ratio [OR] 0.76 [0.63-0.92]; χ2 = 10.3; I2 = 61.2%), history of AMS (OR 1.16 [1.03-1.32]; χ2 = 12.2; I2 = 67%), altitude preexposure (OR 0.68 [0.5-0.91]; χ2 = 22.21; I2 = 82%; τ2 = 0.06), and maximum altitude (OR 2.01 (1.07-3.77) (χ2 = 19.15. I2 = 89.6%. τ2 = 0.26) were statistically significant. In the HS group, age >35 years (OR 0.72 [0.52-0.99]; χ2 = 2.14; I2 = 6.7%) and a history of AMS (OR 8.2 [3.28-20.54]; χ2 = 3.7; I2 = 73%; τ2 = 0.32) were found to be statistically significant. ConclusionsThis study suggests that younger age, non-smoking, history of AMS, nonacclimatization, and hiking to a high maximum altitude (>2500m) increases the possibility of suffering from AMS.