bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum soluble (pro)renin receptor level as a prognostic factor in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Amari Yoshifumi , Morimoto Satoshi , Suda Chikahito , Iida Takeshi , Yurugi Takatomi , Oyama Yasuo , Aoyama Naoki , Nakajima Fumitaka , Ichihara Atsuhiro , Okuda Hidenobu
Published: April 2021

The (pro)renin receptor [(P)RR)] is a multifunctional protein that is cleaved to generate the soluble (P)RR [s(P)RR], reflecting the status of the tissue renin-angiotensin system and/or activity of the (P)RR. The serum s(P)RR level is associated with arteriosclerosis, independent of other risk factors, in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This study was conducted to investigate whether the s(P)RR level was associated with new-onset cardiovascular events or malignant diseases and poor prognosis in patients undergoing HD. Overall, 258 patients [70 (61–76) years, 146 males] undergoing maintenance HD were prospectively followed up for 60 months. We investigated the relationships between s(P)RR levels and new-onset cardiovascular events/ malignant diseases and mortality during the follow-up period using Cox proportional hazard analyses. The cumulative incidence of new-onset cardiovascular events (P = 0.009) and deaths (P < 0.001), but not of malignant diseases, was significantly greater in patients with higher serum s(P)RR level (≥ 29.8 ng/ml) than in those with lower s(P)RR level (< 29.8 ng/ml). A high serum s(P)RR level was independently correlated with cardiovascular mortality (95% CI 1.001–1.083, P = 0.046). The serum s(P)RR level was associated with cardiovascular events and mortality, thus qualifying as a biomarker for identifying patients requiring intensive care.
Conservative Versus Tailored Surgical Treatment in Patients With First Time Lateral Patella Dislocation: a Randomized-controlled Trial
Authors: Liebensteiner Michael , Keiler Alexander , Attal Rene El , Balcarek Peter , Dirisamer Florian , Giesinger Johannes , Seitlinger Gerd , Nelitz Manfred , Keshmiri Armin , Frings Jannik , Becher Christoph , Kappel Paola , Wagner Daniel , Pagenstert Geert
Published: April 2021

BackgroundPatellar instability has a high incidence and occurs particularly in young and female patients. If the patella dislocates for the first time, treatment is usually conservative. However, this cautious approach carries the risk of recurrence and of secondary pathologies such as osteochondral fractures. An initial surgical treatment could possibly avoid these consequences of recurrent patella dislocation.MethodsA prospective, randomized-controlled trial design is applied. Patients with unilateral first-time patella dislocation will be considered for participation. Study participants will be randomized to either conservative treatment or to a tailored patella stabilizing treatment. In the conservative group patients will use a knee brace and will be prescribed outpatient physical therapy. The surgical treatment will be performed in a tailored manner, addressing the pathologic anatomy that predisposes to patella dislocation.The Banff Patellofemoral Instability-Instrument 2.0, recurrence rate, apprehension test, joint degeneration and the Patella Instability Severity Score will serve as outcome parameters. The main analysis will focus on the difference in change of the scores between the two groups within a two-year follow-up.Statistical analysis will use linear mixed models. Power analysis was done for the comparison of the two study arms at 2-year follow-up with regard to the BPII score. A sample size of N=64 per study arm (128 overall) provides 80% power (alpha=0.05, two-tailed) to detect a difference of 0.5 standard deviations in a t-test for independent samples.DiscussionAlthough several studies have already dealt with this issue, there is still no consensus on the ideal treatment concept for primary patellar dislocation. Moreover, most of these studies show a unified surgical group, which means that all patients were treated with the same surgical procedure. This is regarded as a major limitation as surgical treatment of patella dislocation should depend on the patient’s anatomic pathologies leading to patellar instability. To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating whether patients with primary patella dislocation are better treated conservatively or operatively with tailored surgery to stabilize the patella.Trial registrationThe study will be prospectively registered in the publicly accessible database www.clinicaltrials.gov.
The viral accelerated NF-κB pathway drives COVID-19-associated coagulopathy via excessive transcription of tissue factor and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 – case report
Authors: Leitzke Marco , Correia Joao-Carlos , Schönknecht Peter Oskar Dieter
Published: April 2021

The current COVID-19 pandemic creates new clinical challenges almost daily, especially in terms of individual prognoses, diagnostics involving newly discovered pathogenic mechanisms, and the appearance of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. In terms of the thromboembolic complications frequently occurring in COVID-19 patients, there is new evidence that pathognomonic COVID-19-associated coagulopathy (CAC) differs considerably from the coagulant malfunction of common disseminated intravascular coagulation. Thus, bleeding is a rare complication in the initial stages of the disease, whereas thrombotic formations can be seen autopticly in the vasculature of several organs. Therefore, it is speculated that most thromboembolic complications are thrombotic rather than embolic, and CAC is more likely to be a pro-coagulant form of coagulopathy. The reasons for these key differences have remained unknown until very recently. The relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the virus-related acceleration of the transcriptional nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)-pathway, with the accompanied excessive downstream release of NF-κB-dependent proteins, is undisputed. Therefore, the roles of the NF-κB-transcribed anti-fibrinolytic plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI 1) and NF-κB-dependent tissue factor (TF) have become worthy of attention. Inappropriate TF action results in enhanced fibrin clot formation, whereas overexpression of PAI 1 prevents appropriate fibrinolytic reactions. CAC is interpreted as critically contributing to overall COVID-19 pathology and is most likely an independent risk factor for mortality.
Changes in Urban Heat Island Effect with the Development of Newtowns
Authors: Lee Kyungil , Kim Yoonji , Sung Hyun Chan , Kim Seung Hee , Jeon Seong Woo
Published: April 2021

Newtown is a planned city built over a short time period. It is suitable for climate and thermal research, particularly formulating urban planning strategies to analyse problems such as urban heat islands (UHIs). Herein, a comprehensive approach was demonstrated for determining changes in UHI distribution during 1989–2048 in two Newtowns with different urban planning. A significant increase in built-up areas was observed from 1989 (< 5%) to 2018 (> 40%) in both Newtowns. However, this increase significantly varied (approximately 12.25%) with urban planning in the areas where UHIs occurred before and after development. Moreover, without effective mitigation, the built-up area in each Newtown is estimated to increase to approximately 60%, and the surface UHI intensity in most areas to increase by 4 °C in 2048. Thus, these results combined with architectural assessment models can improve the understanding of thermal environmental impacts of urbanisation and help mitigate heat island hazards.
Synthesis, Characterization and Comparison of Photo-catalytic Efficiency of Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2, SrFe12O19/SiO2/TiO2 and Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO Core/shell/shell Nano-structures
Authors: Bavarsiha Fatemeh , Dadashian Saeideh , Montazeri-Pour Mehdi , Ghasemy-Piranloo Fardin , Rajabi Masoud
Published: April 2021

In this research work, three magnetic composites of Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2, SrFe12O19/SiO2/TiO2 and Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO with core/shell/shell structures were successfully prepared by the sol-gel method. For this purpose, in the first step, soft magnetic and hard magnetic powders of Fe3O4 and SrFe12O19 were synthesized using carbon reduction and co-precipitation routes, respectively. In the second step, silica coating was performed by controlling the hydrolysis and condensation of the tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) precursor on the magnetic cores. In the third step, a coating of TiO2 or ZnO photo-catalytic shells was made on as-prepared composites using precursors of titanium n-butoxide (TNBT) or zinc nitrate hexahydrate, respectively. The as-prepared magnetically separable photo-catalysts were characterized using XRD, FESEM, TEM and VSM. The results of the FESEM and TEM analyses confirmed the formation of the core/shell/shell structures. The saturation magnetization of the Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2, SrFe12O19/SiO2/TiO2 and Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO photo-catalytic materials was 41.5 emu/g, 33 emu/g and 49 emu/g, respectively. Evaluation of the photo-catalytic activity of Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2, SrFe12O19/SiO2/TiO2 and Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO composites by using methylene blue (MB) shows degradation percentages of 84%, 80% and 58%, respectively, under UV illumination.
Protective Effect and Mechanism of Shengmai Formula in Ultrafine Particle Matter-Mediated Atherosclerosis and Myocardial Ischemic Injury
Authors: Yang Ting , Qu Shuiqing , Yang Yuanmin , Zhang Yu , Deng Shuoqiu , Zheng Zhongyuan , Liu Hui , Wang Xi , Chen Lina , Zhu Xiaoxin , Li Yujie
Published: April 2021

Background: Long-term exposure to ultrafine particulate matter (UFPM) has been shown to enhance the development of atherosclerosis and impair myocardial function, leading to myocardial infarction (MI). The Shengmai (SM) formula is a kind of traditional Chinese medicine for cardiovascular diseases, which has been used in clinic for thousands of years. It is composed of Red ginseng, dwarf lilyturf tuber (Ophiopogon japonicus), and Chinese magnolia vine fruit and has been reported to improve myocardial ischemia and combat oxidative stress (OS) injury. The aim of this study was to explore the protective role of SM and the mechanism by which it acts against UFPM-induced cardiovascular injury. This study is expected to provide a basis for the development of potential adaptive signature of SM in the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and premature death from global air pollution exposure.Results: Pretreatment with SM reduced plaque vulnerability, improved cardiac systolic function, decreased the OS response, and attenuated UFPM-induced reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial damage. In addition, mice pretreated with SM showed a smaller MI area. In vitro data further demonstrated that compared with the UFPM group, pretreatment with SM significantly increased the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor2 (Nrf2) and HO-1, and to some extent protected the antioxidant defense system.Conclusion: These results indicate that SM can inhibit the OS reaction in myocardial infarction mice, avoid cardiovascular injury induced by UFPM in atherosclerosis (AS)+MI mice, and improve cardiac function. Furthermore, the Keap1-Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant signaling pathways might be involved during these processes. It is suggested that SM has a potential protective effect on the ASCVD population with prolonged exposure to excess particulate matter concentration.
Usefulness of SS18-SSX antibody as a diagnostic marker for pulmonary metastatic synovial sarcoma
Authors: Miura Kentaro , Shimizu Kimihiro , Eguchi Takashi , Koike Sachie , Matsuoka Shunichiro , Takeda Tetsu , Hamanaka Kazutoshi , Uehara Takeshi
Published: April 2021

Background

The novel SS18-SSX fusion-specific antibody is reported to have high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of primary synovial sarcoma (SS), which often metastasizes to the lung. Thus far, no study has validated the diagnostic efficacy of SS18-SSX antibody for pulmonary metastatic SS, and this is the first study to report these findings. We aimed to investigate the usefulness of the SS18-SSX antibody in the diagnosis of pulmonary metastatic SS.
Methods

We evaluated the immunohistochemistry of SS18-SSX fusion-specific antibody (E9X9V) in 10 pulmonary metastatic SS cases and the corresponding five primary sites (four limbs and one mediastinum) in five patients (SS diagnosis of was already confirmed by fluorescence in-situ hybridization in the metastatic and primary sites), and in 93 clinical and histologic mimics including 49 non-SS, pulmonary metastatic sarcomas, 39 primary lung cancers, and five intrathoracic solitary fibrotic tumors. All specimens were surgically resected at Shinshu University Hospital during 2001–2019. For primary and metastatic SS, we also evaluated SS18-SSX immunohistochemistry in needle biopsy and touch imprint cytology specimens from the primary site.
Results

SS18-SSX had stained diffusely strong in all 10 pulmonary metastatic SS cases and the corresponding five primary sites without staining of SS18-SSX in all 93 clinical and histologic mimics (100% sensitivity and 100% specificity). SS18-SSX had sufficiently stained in the biopsy and cytology specimens.
Conclusions

Immunohistochemistry of the SS18-SSX fusion-specific antibody is useful for the differential diagnosis of pulmonary metastatic SS in clinical practice. This simple and reliable method can replace traditional genomic tests.
Effect of FM0807 Inhibits the Proliferation and Migration of RA-FLS through the JAK 2 / STAT3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Nanwen , bian yize , Zheng Ningning , Lai Liangming , Luo Hongbin , Xu Jianhua , Luo Dunxiong , Chen Xiaole
Published: April 2021

Context: It is urgent to develop drugs with independent intellectual property rights and more reasonable price, safe and effective treatment of RA.Objective: To study the inhibitory effect of curcumin derivative FM0807 on the proliferation of RA-FLS cells and its possible mechanism.Materials&Methods: Rheumatiod arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocyte (RA-FLS) were cultured in alone or in the presence of FM0807 (25μM, 50μM and 100μM). MTT method was used to analyze the effect of cell proliferation, Hoechst 33342/PI staining was used to observe the effect of apoptosis. Cell migration assay was used to observe the effect of migration ability of RA-FLS. The expression of JAK2,STAT3, IL-6 and IL-1β gene was determined by RT-PCR method. Western blotting assay was used to detect the expression of JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway related proteins.Results: A 72-hour exposure FM0807 result in cell proliferation inhibition significantly(IC50=41.38μM). The migration of RA-FLS is inhibited by FM0807 100µM in 72 h (P<0 05). High Content Screening showed that the apoptosis rate of RA-FLS was up regulated after treated FM0807. Presence of FM0807 in the culture medium strongly inhibited JAK2,STAT3,IL-6 and IL-1βmRNA expression in a concentration-dependent manner. Western blot demonstrated a substantially reduced protein expression of phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3. At the same time, the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and the key proteins of PI3K cell pathway including Akt and mTOR were down-regulated. on the contrary, the expression of apoptosis execution protein Cleaved-caspase3 and Bax were up-regulated.Conclusion: Curcumin derivative FM0807 may inhibit the proliferation of RA-FLS and promote its apoptosis by inhibiting JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway.
Next Generation Sequencing Based In-house HIV Genotyping Method: Validation Report
Authors: Ayitewala Alisen , Ssewanyana Isaac , Kiyaga Charles
Published: April 2021

BackgroundHIV genotyping has had a significant impact on care and treatment of HIV/AIDS. At clinical level, the test guides physicians on the choice of treatment regimens. At surveillance level, it informs policy on consolidated treatment guidelines and microbial resistance control strategies. Until recently, the conventional test has utilized Sanger sequencing (SS) method. Unlike Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), SS is limited by low data throughput and the inability of detecting low abundant drug resistant variants. NGS has the capacity to improve sensitivity and quantitatively identify low-abundance variants; in addition, it has the potential to improve efficiency as well as lowering costs when samples are batched. Despite the NGS benefits, its utilization in clinical drug resistance profiling is faced with mixed reactions. These are largely based on lack of a consensus regarding the quality control strategy. Nonetheless, transitional views suggest validating the method against the gold-standard SS. Therefore, we present a validation report of an NGS-based in-house HIV genotyping method against SS method in Uganda. ResultsSince there were no established proficiency test panels for NGS-based HIV genotyping, fifteen (15) clinical plasma samples for routine care were utilized. The use of clinical samples allowed for accuracy and precision studies. The workflow involved four (4) main steps; viral RNA extraction, targeted amplicon generation, amplicon sequencing and data analysis. Accuracy of 98% with an average percentage error of 3% was reported for the NGS based assay against the SS platform demonstrating similar performance. The coefficient of variation (CV) findings for both the inter-run and inter-personnel precision showed no variability (CV ≤0%) at the relative abundance of ≥20%. For both inter-run and inter-personnel, variation that affected the precision was observed at 1% frequency. Overall, for all the frequencies, CV registered a small range of (0-2%).Conclusion The NGS-based in-house HIV genotyping method fulfilled the minimum requirements that support its utilization for drug resistance profiling in a clinical setting of a low-income country. For more inclusive quality control studies, well characterized wet panels need to be established.
Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Atrial Fibrillation-Based Tachyarrhythmia After Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis 
Authors: Wang Wenzhu , Liu Jian , Ye Haibo , Wang Mingshan , Wang Tao
Published: April 2021

Background: The incidence of tachyarrhythmia with atrial fibrillation as the main manifestation increases after adult cardiac surgery, which leads to an increase in adverse events. Dexmedetomidine has been widely used in the perioperative period, but the effect of dexmedetomidine on tachyarrhythmia after cardiac surgery in adults remains controversial.Objective: To evaluate the effect of perioperative use of dexmedetomidine on tachyarrhythmia with atrial fibrillation as the main manifestation after cardiac surgery.Methods: We searched six databases, including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, CNKI, Wanfang, and Sinomed, for literature published up to November 2020, without restrictions on language. The primary endpoint was the number of patients with atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. The secondary endpoints included: the number of patients with supraventricular tachycardia, the number of patients with ventricular tachycardia, the number of patients with ventricular fibrillation, the number of patients with myocardial infarction, the number of dead patients, mechanical ventilation duration, and the length of ICU stay and hospitalization. We used Stata (Version 12.0) and Review Manager (Version 5.3) provided by Cochrane Collaboration for data analysis. If the included studies have high statistical heterogeneity (P≤0.1, I2>50%), we will use a random-effects model. Otherwise, a fixed-effects model will be used for calculation.Results: Among the 1388 studies retrieved, a total of 18 studies met our inclusion criteria (N=3171 participants). The use of dexmedetomidine reduced the incidence of atrial fibrillation by 17% (RR=0.83, 95% CI 0.73-0.93; Z=3.06, P=0.002), reduced the incidence of supraventricular tachycardia by about 70% (RR=0.29, 95% CI 0.11-0.77; Z=2.47, P=0.01), reduced the incidence of ventricular tachycardia by about 80% (RR=0.23, 95% CI 0.08-0.63; Z=2.85, P=0.004), but had no effect on the incidence of ventricular fibrillation (RR=1.02, 95% CI 0.14-7.31; Z=0.02, P=0.99）.There was no significant difference in the incidence of myocardial infarction between the two groups (RR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.37-2.18; Z = 0.24, P = 0.81). There was no significant difference in mortality between the two groups (RR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.31-2.44; Z = 0.28, P = 0.78). Dexmedetomidine group can reduce the time of patients in ICU (SMD = - 0.35, 95% CI -0.69 to -0.02; Z = 2.07, P = 0.04), but the heterogeneity between studies is high (I2 = 93%). There was no effect on duration of mechanical ventilation (SMD = -0.10, 95% CI -0.25 to 0.06; Z = 1.18, P = 0.24) and length of hospitalization (SMD = -0.46, 95% CI -1.08 to 0.16; Z = 1.46, P = 0.14).Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine can reduce the incidence of atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, and ventricular tachycardia after cardiac surgery in adults but does not affect the occurrence of ventricular fibrillation.Trial registration: CRD42021233613; Registration: Jan 2021
Getting to Zero: Micro-Foci of Malaria In the Solomon Islands Requires Stratified Control
Authors: Russell Tanya L , Grignard Lynn , Apairamo Alan , Kama Nathan , Bobogare Albino , Drakeley Chris , Burkot Thomas R.
Published: April 2021

Background:

The Solomon Islands has made significant progress in the control of malaria through vector control, access and use of improved diagnostics and therapeutic drugs. As transmission is reduced there is a need to understand variations in transmission risk at the provincial and village levels to stratify control methods.
Methods:

A cross-sectional survey of malaria in humans was conducted in the Solomon Islands during April 2018. Nineteen villages across 4 provinces were included. The presence of Plasmodium species parasites in blood samples was detected using PCR.
Results:

Blood samples were analysed from 1,914 participants. The prevalence of DNA of P. falciparum was 1.2% (n = 23) and for P. vivax was 1.5% (n = 28). Twenty-two percent (n = 5/23) of P. falciparum DNA positive participants were febrile and 17% of P. vivax DNA positive participants (n = 5/28). The prevalence of both P. falciparum and P. vivax was extremely spatially heterogeneous. For P. falciparium, in particular, only 2 small foci of transmission were identified among 19 villages. Plasmodium infections were uniformly distributed across age groups. Insecticide-treated bed net use the night prior to the survey was reported by 63% of participants and significantly differed by province.
Conclusions:

Malaria transmission across the Solomon Islands has become increasingly fragmented, affecting fewer villages and provinces. The majority of infections were afebrile suggesting the need for strong active case detection with the predominance of P. vivax requiring implementation of radical cure with primaquine. Village-level stratification of targeted interventions based on passive and active case detection data could support the progress towards a more cost-effective and successful elimination program.
Early ART-initiation Reduces HIV-1 Proviral DNA Levels in Children from the CHER Trial
Authors: Payne Helen , Chan Man , Watters Sarah , Otwombe Kennedy , Hsiao Yuan , Babiker Abdel , Violari Avy , Cotton Mark , Gibb Diana , Klein Nigel
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND: Reduction of the reservoir of latent HIV-infected cells might increase the possibility of long-term remission in individuals living with HIV. We investigated factors associated with HIV-1 proviral DNA levels in children receiving different antiretroviral therapy (ART) strategies in the Children with HIV Early Antiretroviral Therapy (CHER) trial. METHODS: Infants with HIV <12 weeks old with CD4% ≥25% were randomized in the CHER trial to early limited ART for 40 or 96 weeks (ART-40W, ART-96W), or deferred ART (ART-Def). For ART-Def infants or following ART interruption in ART-40W/ART-96W, ART was started/re-started for clinical progression or CD4% <25%. In 229 participants, HIV-1 proviral DNA was quantified by PCR from stored peripheral blood mononuclear cells from children who had received ≥24 weeks ART and two consecutive undetectable HIV-1 RNA 12-24 weeks apart. HIV-1 proviral DNA was compared between ART-Def and ART-96W at week 96, and in all arms at week 248. Factors associated with HIV-1 proviral DNA levels were evaluated using linear regression.FINDINGS: Longer duration of ART was significantly associated with lower HIV-1 proviral DNA at both 96 (p=0.0003) and 248 weeks (p=0.0011). Higher total CD8 count at ART initiation was associated with lower HIV-1 proviral DNA at both 96 (p=0.0225) and 248 weeks (p=0.0398). Week 248 HIV-1 proviral DNA was significantly higher in those with positive HIV-1 serology at week 84 than those with negative serology (p=0.0042).INTEPRETATION: Longer ART duration is key to HIV-1 proviral DNA reduction. Further understanding is needed of the effects of “immune-attenuation” through early HIV-1 exposure.FUNDING: Wellcome Trust, National Institutes of Health, Medical Research Council.
The Protective Effects of Metoprolol Against Arginine Vasopressin (AVP)-Induced Cellular Senescence in Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Li Qiang , Huang Kang , Ma Tianyi , Lu Shijuan , Tang Shilin , Wu Miao , Yang Hui , Zhong Jianghua
Published: April 2021

Cellular senescence of cardiomyocytes is reported to be involved in the pathological mechanism of cardiac diseases. Metoprolol is a blocker of β1 receptor used for the treatment of hypertension, which is recently reported to protect cardiomyocytes from injury. The present study aims to investigate the protective effects of Metoprolol against Arginine vasopressin (AVP)-induced cellular senescence in cardiomyocytes. CCK-8 and LDH release assays were used to evaluate cytotoxicity. ELISA was used to detect the release of 8OHdG. SA-β-gal activity and telomerase activity were measured to index cell senescence. The iNampt activity, NAD+/NADPH ratio, and Sirt1 activity were detected by commercial kits. Levels of acetylated p53 were measured by immunoprecipitation and the expression of p21 was determined by RT-PCR and western blot analysis. We found that the elevated level of 8OHdG, percentage of SA-β-gal positive cells, and decreased telomerase activity induced by AVP were significantly reversed by the treatment of Metoprolol. Metoprolol elevated the suppressed iNampt activity, NAD+/NADPH ratio, and Sirt1 activity in cardiomyocytes challenged with AVP. The upregulated expression of acetylated p53 and p21 induced by AVP were dramatically downregulated by the presence of Metoprolol. Taken together, our data revealed that Metoprolol protected the cell senescence in cardiomyocytes induced by AVP.
Beneficiation and Physiochemical Characterization of Coal Deposits in Achibo-Sombo Area, South-Western Ethiopia
Authors: Usman Temam , Abicho Samuel , Meshesha Daniel , Workneh Getachew Adam
Published: April 2021

This study was conducted to upgrade the quality of Achibo-Sombo coal deposits by physiochemical beneficiation methods particularly by using froth floatation technique to minimize the ash and sulfur content from coal particles. During the floatation test, proximate, ultimate, calorific value, functional groups, surface morphology and crystal structure analysis of Achibo-Sombo coal was carried out through different methods. The moisture content of a raw sample and treated sample is found in the range of 11.81 to 20.27% and 8.12 to 14.02 % respectively. The volatile matter is ranging from 22.74 to 34.85 % for raw coal and 21.92 to 30.64 % for treated coal samples. The ash content of the raw coal sample is ranging from 22.47 to 36.58 % which became in the range 7.49 to 13.62 % after treatment. The fixed carbon is also changed from 23.85–38.31% of raw sample to 44.47–55.87 % for treated coal samples. The calorific value of a raw sample is found in the ranges of 5838.46 Btu/lb. to 9531.29 Btu/lb. whereas for treated coal samples it is found in the ranges of 9438.12 Btu/lb. to 11756.63 Btu/lb. The sulfur and nitrogen contents of the raw coal sample which were ranged from 0.57 to 1.9 % − 1.22 to 1.44 % are reduced to 0.25 to 0.41% -0.52 to 0.92% respectively after treatment. Generally, the Achibo-Sombo raw coal is falling under the coal grade of lignite B to sub-bituminous B whereas the treated coal sample is grouped under sub-bituminous C to high volatile bituminous C. Accordingly, the results obtained indicate that the Achibo coal streams are upgraded relatively with better calorific value and fixed carbon and with lowest ash contents as compared to samples collected from other sites.
Screening Risk Factors and Interaction Analysis of Hypertension in Overweight and Obesity Population based on Three Statistical Models
Authors: Wei Li Lu , jian Yu
Published: April 2021

Background Hypertension is a common chronic disease in the world, and it is also a common basic disease of cardiovascular and brain complications. Overweight and obesity are the high risk factors of hypertension. In this study, three statistical methods, classification tree model, logistic regression model and BP neural network, were used to screen the risk factors of hypertension in overweight and obese population, and the interaction of risk factors was conducted Analysis, for the early detection of hypertension, early diagnosis and treatment, reduce the risk of hypertension complications, have a certain clinical significance.Methods The classification tree model, logistic regression model and BP neural network model were used to screen the risk factors of hypertension in overweight and obese people.The specificity, sensitivity and accuracy of the three models were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). Finally, the classification tree CRT model was used to screen the related risk factors of overweight and obesity hypertension, and the non conditional logistic regression multiplication model was used to quantitatively analyze the interaction.Results The Youden index of ROC curve of classification tree model, logistic regression model and BP neural network model were 39.20%,37.02% ,34.85%, the sensitivity was 61.63%, 76.59%, 82.85%, the specificity was 77.58%, 60.44%, 52.00%, and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.721, 0.734,0.733, respectively. There was no significant difference in AUC between the three models (P>0.05). Classification tree CRT model and logistic regression multiplication model suggested that the interaction between NAFLD and FPG was closely related to the prevalence of overweight and obese hypertension.Conclusion NAFLD,FPG,age,TG,UA, LDL-C were the risk factors of hypertension in overweight and obese people. The interaction between NAFLD and FPG increased the risk of hypertension.
The association between polymorphisms in long non-coding RNA and lung cancer in non-smoking women
Authors: Tong Guanghui , Li Sixuan , Tong Weiwei , Gao Min , Zhou Baosen , Yin Zhihua
Published: April 2021

Background

The relationship between long non-coding RNA and lung cancer has become a research hotspot.
Methods

Four polymorphisms, including rs10188946, rs11246867, rs2288947, and rs8105637 were evaluated in 556 patients with lung cancer and 395 age-matched controls in the present study.
Results

This study showed that the associations of the four polymorphisms of long non-coding RNA with the risks of lung cancer were not statistically significant. In the age stratification study, AG of rs2288947 was associated with the reduce risk of both lung cancer and adenocarcinoma (OR = 0.597,P = 0.017 and OR = 0.506, P = 0.005,respectively), and AG of rs8105637 was also protected both lung cancer and adenocarcinoma (OR = 0.636,P = 0.037and OR = 0.577, P = 0.023,respectively). We found that when the risk genotypes of the three SNPs rs10188946, rs11246867, rs2288947 and oil exposure worked together, the risk of lung cancer was higher than either of these two risk factors acted alone.
Conclusions

Four polymorphisms (including rs10188946, rs11246867, rs2288947, and rs8105637) were not associated with lung cancer risks in the present study. After age stratification, rs2288947 and rs8105637 were associated with the risks of lung cancer and adenocarcinoma among the individuals older than 60.
Critical Illness-related Corticosteroid Insufficiency is Common in Covid-19 and Treatment Provide Survival Benefit
Authors: Sari Hakan , Sevdi Mehmet Salih , Erkalp Kerem , Aydin Hasan
Published: April 2021

PurposeCovid-19 is a severe lethal disease characterized with pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. We aimed to analyze the prevalence of critical illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency (CIRCI) in Covid-19 patients treated in intensive care unit and whether treatment of it would create any survival benefit. MethodsA total of 119 Covid-19 patients in intensive care unit were enrolled into the study. All patients received treatment for Covid-19 according to national guideline including hydroxychloroquine, favipiravir, antibiotics including azithromycin and oseltamivir in some patients. Basal cortisol below 10 µg/dl were accepted as CIRCI and above 34 µg/dl as intact HPA axis. Patients between them were introduced 1 µg cosynthropin stimulation test and delta cortisol below 9 µg/dl were also accepted as CIRCI. All patients who got diagnosis received hydrocortisone 300 mg/day until clinical condition stabilized. Mortality rate was recorded, then. ResultsCIRCI was detected in 50.4% of cases and mean plasma ACTH level was 14.8±6.0 pg/ml. Patients below age 65 had a statistically higher risk (63.4 % vs. 40.2%, p=0.012). Presence of comorbidity did not increase the risk of CIRCI (47.3% vs. 62.5%, p=0.18). Also, severity of pulmonary involvement and intubation did not increase the risk of CIRCI. Total mortality rate was 49.5% and not different in patients with and without CIRCI (45.0% vs. 54.5%, p=0.31) indicating benefit of corticosteroid treatment. ConclusionCIRCI is common in Covid-19 patients treated in intensive care unit and treatment of CIRCI provide survival benefit.
A Phase I Study of K-001 in Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Cui Jiujie , Yang Haiyan , Liu Jue , Chen Donghui , Hu Jiong , Zhang Haiyan , Wang Yu , Han Ting , Mao Tiebo , Jiao Feng , Biskup Ewelina , Pan Yaotian , Liu Min , Wang Liwei
Published: April 2021

Background:K-001 is an oral antitumor drug made from active ingredients of marine microorganisms. The current study aimed to evaluate safety and antitumor activity of K-001 in patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).Methods:In this phase I, open-label trial, patients with advanced PDAC were recruited to a dose-escalation study in a standard 3+3 design. K-001 was administered twice daily in 4-week cycles, and dose escalation from 1350mg to 2160mg twice daily was evaluated. Physical examination and laboratory tests were done at screening and then weekly. The safety, dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of K-001 were assessed, and tumor response was estimated by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor (RECIST).Results:Eighteen patients with advanced PDAC were screened, and twelve eligible patients were analyzed in the study. No DLT was observed. Totally, 47 adverse events (AEs) presented, and 14 drug-related AEs were reported in 7 patients, including 8 grade 1 events (57.1%) and 6 grade 2 events (42.9%). There was no grade 3 or 4 drug-related AE. In these 14 drug-related AEs, the most frequent ones were dyspepsia (21.4%), followed by flatulence, constipation, and haemorrhoids bleeding (above 10% of each). Among all 12 patients, 10 patients (83.3%) maintained stable disease (SD), and 2 patients (16.7%) had progressive disease (PD). The objective response rate (ORR) was 0% and the disease control rate (DCR) was 83.3%.Conclusions:K-001 has satisfactory safety and tolerability, as well as meaningful antitumor activity in advanced PDAC patients. Further evaluation of K-001 in phase II/III appears warranted.Trial registration: NCT02720666. Registered 28 Match 2016 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02720666.
Effects of Gold Nanoparticles Combined Human β-defensin 3 on The Alveolar Bone of Experimental Periodontitis
Authors: Zhou Jing , Li Lingjun , Cui Di , Xie Xiaoting , Yang Wenrong , Yan Fuhua
Published: April 2021

Background

Nanomaterials of biomedicine and tissue engineering have been proposed in the treatment of periodontitis recently. This study aimed to investigate the effect of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) combined human β-defensin 3 (hBD3) on the repair of alveolar bone of experimental periodontitis in rats.
Methods

A model of experimental periodontitis was established by ligating of the maxillary second molars with silk thread in rats, which were treated with or without AuNPs combined hBD3. Micro-focus computerized tomography (micro-CT) scanning, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and histological and immunohistochemical staining, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteoprotegerin (OPG) tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and receptor activator of NF-κB Ligand (RANKL), were used to analyze.
Results

Micro-CT demonstrated that the alveolar bone resorption was significantly reduced after the treatment of AuNPs combined hBD3. Levels of TNF-α and IL-6 decreased markedly compared with the ligation group. HE and Masson staining showed that AuNPs combined hBD3 group had less inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen fibrosis and fracture, but higher calcification in the new bone tissue. Moreover, the administration of AuNPs combined hBD3 increased the expression of ALP and OPG (related to bone formation) expression, while decreased TRAP and RANKL (related to bone resorption) expression.
Conclusions

AuNPs combined hBD3 had a protective effect on the progress of experimental periodontitis in rats, and also played a certain role in promoting osteogenesis.
Source Tracking of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Outbreaks in Neonatal Patients Revealed Rivers Contaminated with NDM Genes
Authors: Wang Jianshjeng , Yin Changfu , Lv Yuanpeng , Yang Weiwei , Zhao Peng
Published: April 2021

Background

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) prevalence in neonatal patients continues to rise in china. However, very few epidemiological data are available to uncover the underlying mechanisms for the increase. This study aimed to elucidate their transmission modes and explore potential sources.
Methods

The genotypic features of CRE isolates were analyzed by PCR and sequencing. The elucidation of transmission and sources involved in electronic medical record review, environmental cultures, screening cultures, and prospective case-control analysis.
Results

A total of 450 CRE isolates recovered from 369 infant patients were genotypically characterised. Carbapenemase genes NDM-1, KPC-2 and IMP-4 accounted for 86.22% (n = 388), 8.89% (n = 40) and 4.44% (n = 20), respectively. After implementation of intensified control measures, CRE rectal prevalence rates in both the 0–3 days and the 4–28 days age group were decreased from 15.53% (100/644) and 27.37% (52/190) to 11.78% (51/433) and 19.59% (19/97) (P = 0.082 and P = 0.148), respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that gastric lavage (odds ratio [OR]) 3.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.49–6.39) and enema (OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.65–4.91) were independent risk factors for rectal colonisation in the 0–3 days age group, whereas Cephalosporins (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.14–3.94), gastric lavage (OR 3.44, 95% CI 1.44–8.22) and residence in rural area (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.19–4.13) were independently associated with rectal colonization in the 4–28 days age group. The strict management of aseptic procedures eventually halted the silent spread. The transmission tracking of neonatal NDM-1 strains outbreaks revealed rivers contaminated with NDM genes.
Conclusions

Continued vigilance for importations should be maintained to reduce CRE threat. Community awareness raising campaigns are urgently needed to reduce CRE threat.
Expression of IL-23 in gilt endometrium and oviduct after insemination with seminal plasma, spermatozoa or semen extender
Authors: Svensson Anna , Jiwakanon Jatesada , Fossum Caroline , Dalin Anne-Marie
Published: April 2021

Objective: Insemination with spermatozoa, seminal plasma and extender, cause a rapid inflammatory response in the pig endometrium, which is characterized by an influx of neutrophils into the uterus. The transient inflammatory response to semen involves cytokine induction. Potential functions for Interleukin-23 (IL-23) in the inflammatory response to different insemination treatments were examined by studying mRNA expression and immunostaining in gilt oviduct and endometrium 35-40 h after insemination. Insemination was performed with seminal plasma (SP), spermatozoa (SPZ) without SP in the extender Beltsville thawing solution (BTS), or BTS alone. In control gilts an insemination catheter was inserted without anything being inseminated. Results: Results showed that IL-23 mRNA was expressed in oviduct and endometrium. There was an approximate 2-4-fold increase in expression of IL-23 mRNA in catheter-only control compared with SPZ, SP and BTS treatment groups. IL-23 immunolabelling was detected in a small number of separate cells as well as in the sub-epithelial connective tissue of the endometrium, the endosalpinx of the isthmus and infundibulum. In conclusion, all fluids used for insemination decreased the expression of IL-23 mRNA in the endometrium compared to catheter-insertion alone, indicating a possible role for IL-23 in the inflammatory response after insemination in gilts.
Molecular-genetic identification of microorganism strains isolated from activated sludge based on an analysis of nucleotide sequences of the 16s rRNA gene
Authors: Ivanchikov E. A. , Bubeev A. T. , Tsyrenov V. Zh. , Arbatsksaya A. V.
Published: April 2021

A molecular-genetic identification of four bacterial strains isolated from activated sludge of urban wastewater treatment plants (Ulan-Ude) and the industrial enterprise OJSC “Selenginsky Pulp and Paper Mill” (Selenginsk) was carried out. Bacterial strains were identified by a capillary sequencer ABI 3130XL Genetic Analyzer (Applied Biosystems) using 16S primers 27F and 1492R at the Genomics Collective Use Center of the Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, SB RAS, Novosibirsk. The results were obtained using the method of determination of the direct nucleotide sequence of a 16S rRNA fragment followed by comparison of the nucleotide identity with the sequences deposited in the international database GenBank. Bacterial strains isolated from activated sludge were identified according to the GenBank database: strain B 1.1 corresponds to Paenibacillus dendritiformis strain P411 (similarity 99.93%), strains B 1.2 and B 1.3 correspond to Bacillus licheniformis strain PB399 (similarity 86 and 100%, respectively), strain P 1.1 corresponds to the Paenibacillus polymyxa strain ISSDS-85 (similarity 99.86%). The biochemical properties of the identified strains were determined: amylolytic, proteolytic and lipolytic activity; the ability to ferment carbohydrates in Hiss’ nutrient medium; the ability to form ammonia, urea and nitrate reduction. The bacterial strains isolated from activated sludge may be promising for the destruction of wastewater pollutants. On their basis, it is planned to create a consortium of microorganisms for the destruction of protein and fatty pollutants in wastewater.
Acidophilic chemolithotrophic microorganisms: prospects for use in biohydrometallurgy and microbial fuel cells
Authors: Kalashnikova O. B. , Kashevskii A. V. , Vardanyan N. S. , Erdenechimeg D. , Zhdanova G. O. , Topchy I. A. , Ponamoreva O. N. , Vyatchina O. F. , Stom D. I.
Published: April 2021

Acidophilic chemolithotrophic microorganisms are used in biohydrometallurgy for the extraction of metals from sulphide ores. Some types of microorganisms belonging to this group are capable of generating electricity under certain conditions. This circumstance determined a recent upsurge of research interest in their use in biofuel cells. Under a constant supply of the substrate to the bioelectrochemical system, acidophilic chemolithotrophic microorganisms are capable of producing electricity for a prolonged period of time. The use of extremophiles in microbial fuel cells is of particular interest, since these microorganisms can serve as bioelectrocatalysts at extreme pH, salinity and temperature, while the vast majority of microorganisms are unable to survive under these conditions. Therefore, selection of optimal conditions and approaches to controlling the work of acidophilic chemolithotrophic microorganisms in such fuel cells is of particular importance. On this basis, a technology for the simulteneous bioleaching of metals from poor ores and the generation of electricity can be developed. Biofuel cells operating at low pH values using acidophilic chemolithotrophic microorganisms are yet to be investigated. The number of studies on acidophilic electroactive microorganisms is very limited. In this regard, the purpose of this review was to consider the prospects for the use of acidophilic chemolithotrophic microorganisms as bioagents in microbial fuel cells. The reviewed publications demonstrate that chemolithotrophic microorganisms can act as both anodic (metal-reducing, sulphur-oxidizing microorganisms) and cathodic (metal-oxidizing prokaryotes, sulfate reducers) highly efficient bioagents capable of using mining wastes as substrates.
Predicting groundwater rise in historical centres of Eastern Siberian cities
Authors: Auzina L. I.
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the research work is to develop a procedure for on-line prediction of the groundwater hydrodynamic mode change caused by the barrage effect of deep foundation structure construction. The main method used is the development of an analytical model as a result of variant solutions of the Laplace equation. The solutions have been elaborated in the course of studies conducted in historical centers of Irkutsk and other cities of Eastern Siberia. As a result, diagrams predicting the formation depth of groundwater level have been created, and the territories have been assessed according to their flooding conditions. An analytical model has been developed for backwater prediction. The model is rather simple, universal and can be applied for predictive calculations on the territories of historical cities located in similar geological and hydrogeological conditions. The available material analyzed, it is concluded that preliminary vertical planning of the territory, correct approach to foundation type selection as well as seasonal rise of underground water play a significant role in the formation of a new headwater elevation.
Building Religious Harmony Among Young Children: Experience from Indonesian Elementary School
Authors: Syafar Djunawir , Damopolii Mujahid
Published: April 2021

This article is a study of the harmonization of Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism in SD Negeri (State Elementary School) 46 Hulontalangi, Gorontalo City. The school plays important roles because it is the first state school in Gorontalo City that develops and implements the concepts of religious harmony and pluralism in a school environment. This research is a qualitative study which uses three data collection methods, namely: (1) observation, (2) in-depth interviews, (3) documentation. The findings show that the implementation of religious harmony is manifested in religious, social, and cultural cooperation. The cooperation has become a habit that affects the outlook and actions of all school members in their daily lives. The habit is inseparable from the role of teachers, parents, students, and all school residents who become teachers and learners from their environment. It results in harmony cooperation, namely cooperation that is not only in the form of ideas and words but also affects the social environment. Thus, what has been implemented at this institution can be an alternative solution for schools or other institutions on how religious pluralism can be facilitated and placed in the right position and needs.