bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The epidemiology of vertebral fractures in the adult German population and an analysis of the socio-economic burden: Trends from 2009 to 2019.
Authors: Lang Siegmund , Walter Nike , Freigang Viola , Neumann Carsten , Loibl Markus , Alt Volker , Rupp Markus
Published: January 2022

ObjectiveTo present nationwide rates of hospitalized patients with vertebral fractures over one decade and a comprehensive analysis of treatment characteristics and incurred costs in 2019.MethodsTrends in the incidence were quantified based on annual ICD-10 diagnosis codes from all German medical facilities between 2009 and 2019, provided by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). The ICD-10 Codes “S12.0-2; S22.0; S32.0; S32.1-2” were evaluated. The relative change from 2009 through 2019 was determined and data on the secondary diagnoses, OPS-codes, treatment on an intensive care unit (ICU), in-hospital mortality, proportion of G-DRGs and cumulative costs were assessed based on the Institute for the Hospital Remuneration System (InEK) data for 2019.ResultsThe incidence increased by 45.6% between 2009 and 2019 to 150.7 per 100,000 inhabitants. Lumbar spine fractures showed the highest incidence in 2019 with 70.5/100,000 inhabitants (46.8% of all vertebral fractures). The highest increases were seen in subaxial cervical fractures (+121.2%) and sacral fractures (+306.6%). 63.7% of vertebral fractures in 2019 were diagnosed in women and 69.0% in patients ages 70 years or older. Osteoporosis was documented in 17.9% of cases. In 10.1% of cases an ICU treatment was documented. The in-hospital mortality was 2.0%. The most frequently applied G-DRG code was I68D (33.3%). The total costs in 2019 were €589,205,715.ConclusionThe evaluation of 955,091 vertebral fractures showed a sharp increase in the incidence rate with incurred cost of approximately €590 million in 2019. The age and gender distribution suggests an increase in the diagnosis of osteoporotic fractures.
Recursive Hilbert transform method: algorithm and convergence analysis
Authors: Hu Zhi-Xiang , Zhu Hui-Yu , Huang Xiao , Zhi Lun-Hai
Published: January 2022

The Hilbert transform (HT) is an important method for signal demodulation and instantaneous frequency (IF) estimation. The modulus of the analytic signal constructed by the HT is regarded as the amplitude, and the derivative of the instantaneous phase of the extracted pure frequency modulation signal is the IF. When the spectrums of the amplitude function and the oscillation term overlap so as not to satisfy the Bedrosian condition, the instantaneous amplitude (IA) and frequency calculated by the Hilbert transform will contain errors. The recursive Hilbert transform (RHT) is an effective method to overcome this problem. The RHT regards the pure frequency modulation signal obtained by the previous HT as a new signal and recursively computes its Hilbert transform until convergence. The final pure frequency modulation signal of the recursive procedure has the same zero-crossing points as the original signal, and its corresponding quadrature error signal vanishes. We emphasize the convergence analysis of the algorithm and study the convergent tendency of the quadrature error signal in each recursive step. The key to the proof is that the discrete Fourier transform value of the quadrature error signal is regarded as a vector, and the length/norm of the vector decreases with the recursion process. Finally, three examples are used to demonstrate the effective application of this method in signal demodulation, IF identification and damped vibrating signal analysis, which indicate the application potential of the RHT method in mono-component signal processing.
Do urban/rural and educational differences influence diabetes patients’ risk of developing Common Mental Disorders? Indonesian cross-sectional Community Health Survey analysis
Authors: Isfandari Siti , Mubasyiroh Rofingatul , Siahaan Selma , Idaiani Sri , Mihardja Laurentia
Published: January 2022

Background Depression is one of the major comorbid conditions associated with chronic diseases like diabetes. There are a several studies of diabetes and CMD including diabetes depression (DD) and diabetes-related distress (DRD) in Indonesia mostly performed in health facilities. To the authors’ knowledge, there are yet to be studies exploring the risk of diabetes comorbid on CMD. This analysis is the first to explore urban-rural and educational level differences of diabetes patients risk for also having comorbid CMD using the latest Indonesian community health survey.MethodsThis is secondary cross-sectional data analyzed using the latest 2018 Indonesian community health survey Riskesdas comprised of 240703 respondents aged 30 or higher. CMD data based on face to face interviews using the SRQ-20. Diabetic conditions and other chronic diseases based on doctor's diagnosis were reported by the respondents in the interview. Descriptive bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out for identify risk profiles on Common mental disorders (CMD) for diabetes patients by geographic and social factors.ResultsThree-point three percent of the sample had diabetes-related diagnoses, and almost 20% of diabetes patients had CMD. The analysis identifies different risk of CMD among diabetes patients according to place of residence and education. The highest risk of diabetes without complications diagnosed for developing a CMD is among poorer educated rural patients, while the lowest was among poorer educated urbanites. Being more highly educated in both rural and urban settings shared almost the same risk. Higher educational attainment in a rural setting is most protective – these diabetes patients have the lowest risk of developing a CMDConclusionsThe differing risk profiles of CMD among diabetic patients underpin the importance of tailoring mental health service delivery among diabetics in different geographic settings for patients of differing educational backgrounds.
Preoperative Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components Are Predictive of the Incidence of Hypoxemia After Surgery for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: An Observational Study
Authors: Zhang Like , Zhang Lei , Zhao Zengren , Liu Yun , Wang Juzeng , Niu Mengye , Zhao Xiansheng
Published: January 2022

Objectives. The aim of this study was to explore whether or to what extent metabolic syndrome (METs) and its components were associated with the incidence of hypoxemia in acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) patients after surgery. Design. Observational study. Methods. This study involved 271 ATAAD patients with surgery. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Subgroup analysis, mixed model regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed, and a scoring system was evaluated. Results. According to the PaO2/FiO2 ≤300 mmHg after the operation, the 271 inpatients were assigned to the hypoxemia group (n = 48) or no hypoxemia group (n = 223). Compared to the no hypoxemia group, the hypoxemia group had higher incidence of METs. Hypoxemia was present in 0%, 3.7%, 19.8%, 51.5%, 90.0% and 100% in the groups of individuals who met the diagnostic criteria of MetS 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 times, respectively. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, METs was an independent risk factor of hypoxemia in several models. After established the score system and assigned score for each METs component, the AUCs were 0.852 (95% CI: 0.789–0.914) in all patients, 0.728 (95% CI: 0.573–0.882) in patients with METs and 0.744 (95% CI: 0.636–0.853) in patients without METs by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Conclusions. METs was an independent risk of the incidence of hypoxemia in ATAAD after surgery.
Surgical Bowel Preparation Acutely Impacts Intestinal Microbiota Composition and Recovery Following Colon and Rectal Surgery
Authors: Nalluri-Butz Harika , Bobel Matthew C , Nugent Julia , Boatman Sonja , Emanuelson Ryan , Melton-Meaux Genevieve , Madoff Robert D , Jahansouz Cyrus , Staley Christopher , Gaertner Wolfgang B
Published: January 2022

The intestinal microbiota has been implicated in the pathogenesis of complications following colorectal surgery, yet perioperative changes in gut microbiome composition are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to characterize the perioperative gut microbiome in patients undergoing colonoscopy and colorectal surgery and determine factors influencing its composition. Using Illumina amplicon sequencing coupled with targeted metabolomics, we characterized the fecal microbiota in: (A) patients (n = 15) undergoing colonoscopy who received mechanical bowel preparation, and (B) patients (n = 15) undergoing colorectal surgery who received surgical bowel preparation, composed of mechanical bowel preparation with oral antibiotics, and perioperative intravenous antibiotics. Microbiome composition was characterized before and up to six months following each intervention. Colonoscopy patients had minor shifts in bacterial community composition that recovered to baseline at a mean of 3 (1-13) days. Surgery patients demonstrated substantial shifts in bacterial composition with greater abundances of Enterococcus, Lactobacillus, and Streptococcus. Compositional changes persisted in the early postoperative period with recovery to baseline beginning at a mean of 31 (16-43) days. Our results support surgical bowel preparation as a factor significantly influencing gut microbial composition following colorectal surgery, while mechanical bowel preparation has little impact.
Estimating Social Contacts in Mass Gatherings for Disease Outbreak Prevention and Management (Case of Hajj Pilgrimage)
Authors: Tofighi Mohammadali , Asgary Ali , Tofighi Ghassem , Najafabadi Mahdi , Arino Julien , Amiche Amine , Rahman Ashrafur , McCarthy Zachary , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Thommes Edward , Coudeville Laurent , Grunnill Martin David , Bourouiba Lydia , Wu Jianhong
Published: January 2022

Background: Most mass gathering events have been suspended due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, with vaccination rollout, whether and how to organize some of these mass gathering events arises as part of the pandemic recovery discussions, and this calls for decision support tools. The Hajj, one of the world's largest religious gatherings, was substantively scaled down in 2020 and 2021 and it is still unclear how it will take place in 2022 and subsequent years. Simulating disease transmission dynamics during the Hajj season under different conditions can provide some insights for better decision-making. Most disease risk assessment models require data on the number and nature of possible close contacts between individuals.Methods: We sought to use integrated agent-based modeling and discrete events simulation techniques to capture risky contacts among the pilgrims and assess different scenarios in one of the Hajj major sites, namely Masjid-Al-Haram.Results: The simulation results showed that a plethora of risky contacts may occur during the rituals. Also, as the total number of pilgrims increases at each site, the number of risky contacts increases, and physical distancing measures may be challenging to maintain beyond a certain number of pilgrims in the site.Conclusions: This study presented a simulation tool that can be relevant for the risk assessment of a variety of (respiratory) infectious diseases, in addition to COVID-19 in the Hajj season. This tool can be expanded to include other contributing elements of disease transmission to quantify the risk of the mass gathering events.
Identification and Introgression of Bacterial Blight Resistance From African Rice (Oryza Glaberrima Steud.)
Authors: V Ajitha , V Udaya , S Anantha M , S Laha G. , M Sundaram R , P Senguttuvel , B Muralidhara , G Ishwarya Lakshmi V , Dasari Aleena , M Honnappa , Ch Raveendra , Ghazi Irfan Ahmad , V Subbarao L , V Padma , V Ramana J , C Gireesh
Published: January 2022

Bacterial blight (BB) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is one of the major diseases affecting rice production. In the present study, 31 accessions of O. glaberrima were screened for BB resistance consecutively for four seasons and identified 28 stable BB resistant accessions with a mean lesion length of < 3cm. Molecular characterization revealed absence of xa5, xa13, Xa21, Xa38, xa41(t) and xa45, indicating the possibility of presence of novel gene(s) conferring BB resistance. In order to transfer BB resistance from O. glaberrima, resistant accession EC861812 was crossed to the susceptible cultivar, IR64 and BC2F2 population developed. Genetic studies in BC2F2 population showed transgressive segregation which indicates that O. glaberrima also harbor beneficial alleles for yield related traits. Six resistant BC2F2 plants with mean lesion length of 0.1-0.8 cm were genotyped with 70 parental polymorphic SSR markers which revealed recurrent parent genome 65.1 to 84.5% with average of 67.5%. The BB resistant introgression lines identified in the present study will serve as pre-breeding lines for mapping of BB resistance derived from O. glaberrima.
Manufacturing technique advances in tool and die production
Authors: Ufomba Emmanuel C. , Gadzama Samuel W. , Seboni Lone
Published: January 2022

Extant research on fabrication of machine parts have contributed to an understanding of manufacturing processes for a tank cover, using conventional methods. However, the gap lies in the need to tap on advanced manufacturing processes in the production of a leak-proof tank cover, to achieve not only precision, dependability, and mass production but also to promote the issue of context in the manufacturing industry. To respond to this gap, we present research that utilizes novel experimental techniques for tool and die production, to demonstrate superiority over existing research in terms of using modern trends in the production line. The contribution lies in buttressing the synergy between conventional ways of fabricating machine parts in the workshop by using current trends to achieve same results as conventional ways of fabricating machine parts by exploiting advantages of using computer numerically controlled machines in the production of the minting ink tank cover. A numerically controlled milling machine was used to achieve better results compared with conventional methods. Engineering design software was used to generate 2-D coordinates of the work piece diagram with which a computer program was written, duly simulated and certified fit to produce the work piece. Results showed an exact replication of the minting ink tank cover that is more importantly, capable of producing 25 pieces per hour and an annual volume of 48000 pieces. These results are significant to the manufacturing industry in achieving four things: time and energy management, mass production, super surface finish, and consistent quality.
Development of a New Hybrid Adsorbent Based on Polyaniline@Chitosan and Its Application to Acetaminophen Removal From Aqueous Solution
Authors: Daikh Samia , Ouis Dalila , Abdelghani Benyoucef , Mouffok Benali
Published: January 2022

The polyaniline (PANI) with chitosan (CS) (PANI@CS) was synthesized using in-situ polymerization process and its preparation was assured by surface area, XPS, TPD, XRD, FTIR, TGA and SEM analysis. PANI@CS, CS and PANI were used for the removal of acetaminophen (AAP). The maximum value of adsorption capacities were found to be 385.25 mg.g−1 for PANI@CS, 359.84 mg.g−1 for CS and 242.49 mg.g−1 for PANI which reveal that the adsorption capacity of hybrid adsorbent is major than CS and PANI respectively. Moreover, H–bonding, π–π bonding, pore-filling and chemisorption have been suggested as probable mechanism for the elimination of AAP by PANI@CS. Furthermore, AAP elimination was preferable at pH 7.0. Pseudo-second-order (PSO) and Langmuir models reported the kinetic and isotherm data acceptably. This shows that the adsorption processes of AAP are a monolayer chemical adsorption, and it was endothermic, spontaneous, and favorable for the three adsorbents. Moreover, when reused, the hybrid adsorbent remains at around 69% of their original capacities after five adsorption cycles.
Tool Life and Surface Integrity Characteristics of SLM and C&W Inconel 718 in Dry and MQL Condition
Authors: Periane Sasidharan , Duchosal Arnaud , Vaudreuil Sébastien , Chibane Hicham , Morandeau Antoine , Xavior Michael Anthony , Cormier Jonathan , Leroy René
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a tool life test was performed using PVD coated insert on Inconel 718 (IN718) samples. The tool life was tested on IN718 workpiece fabricated through conventional (Cast & Wrought) and additive (Selective Laser Melting) process routes. The as-built SLM samples were subjected to two heat treatments such as Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) and Aeronautic Heat Treatment (AHT). This study aimed to evaluate the machining behavior of C&W and SLM IN718 from the machining point of view such as tool wear, chip appearance, surface roughness, and residual stresses. The tool life tests were performed under a dry and near dry environment like using Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL). Meanwhile, the tool wear propagation under different cutting conditions is also explored. Under both the cutting conditions flank wear and fracture of the cutting edge are the most predominant failure modes minimizing the tool life. The microhardness, surface roughness, and residual stress measurements were analyzed. The result indicates that the microstructural difference between the C&W and SLM has more influence on the tool life compared to the machining environment. On machining, the SLM sample has 80% and 43% more tool life than the C&W in dry and MQL machining. Comparing the dry and MQL machining of SLM, on using MQL the tool life is 30% less compared to the dry machining.
EndoCost Aotearoa New Zealand: a Cross-sectional Survey of Chronic Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis
Authors: Tewhaiti-Smith Jordan , Semprini Alex , Bush Deborah , Anderson Augustus , Eathorne Allie , Johnson Neil , Girling Jane , East Michael , Marriott Joy , Armour Mike
Published: January 2022

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) causes important negative effects on quality of life. Endometriosis is the most common cause of CPP in females, and diagnostic delay is over six years internationally. Data remain scarce for CPP impact or diagnostic delay in Aotearoa New Zealand. This study used an online survey to explore the impact of CPP on various life domains for those aged over 18. Additionally, for those with an endometriosis diagnosis, diagnostic delay and factors affecting this over time were explored. There were 800 respondent (620 with self-reported endometriosis). CPP symptoms, irrespective of final diagnosis, started prior to age 20 and negatively impacted multiple life domains including employment, education, and relationships. Mean diagnostic delay for those with endometriosis was 8.7 years, including 2.9 years between symptom onset and first presentation and 5.8 years between first presentation and diagnosis. Five doctors on average were seen prior to diagnosis. However, there was a reduction in the interval between first presentation and diagnosis over time, from 8.4 years for those presenting before 2005, to two years for those presenting after 2012. While diagnostic delay is decreasing, CPP, irrespective of aetiology, continues to have a significant negative impact on the lives of those affected.
Receptor for Activated C Kinase 1 promotes cervical cancer lymph node metastasis via glycolysis-dependent AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Xu Lixiu , Li Jinqiu , Tursun Mikrban , Hai Yan , Tursun Hatila , Mamtimin Batur , hasimu Ayshamgul
Published: January 2022

Background

Cervical cancer (CC), an aggressive squamous cell carcinoma, is characterized by early lymph node metastasis and extremely poor prognosis. We previously showed aberrant glycolysis in patients with CC. The upregulation of Receptor for Activated C Kinase 1 (RACK1) is associated with CC lymph node metastasis. However, its role in mediating aerobic glycolysis in CC lymph node metastasis remains unclear.
Methods

104 cervical cancer and 31 cervicitis tissue were enrolled. RACK1, insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), POU class 2 homeobox 2 (POU2F2) and Hexokinase 2 (HK2) expression in cervical cancer patients were detected by Immunohistochemistry analysis. 1H-NMR experiment was used for metabolomics of cell supernatant after RACK1 knockdown. Tube formation assay, Transwell assay, determination of glucose consumption and lactate production assay were performed to detected MS751 and SiHa cells lymphangiogenesis, migration, invasion, glucose consumption and lactate production. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-PCR assay and Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay was performed to detect the binding among POU2F2 and RACK1. Co-immunoprecipitation and Immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect the binding among RACK1 and GF1R. Xenograft footpad lymph node metastasis was performed using nude mice. Xenograft tumor and metastatic lymph node tissues of mice were experienced immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin–eosin staining.
Results

Here, 1H-NMR analysis revealed significantly correlated RACK1 expression with glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway. Additionally, RACK1 knockdown inhibited aerobic glycolysis and lymphangiogenesis in vitro and suppressed CC lymph node metastasis in vivo. Furthermore, AKT/mTOR signaling was identified as a critical RACK1-regulated pathway that led to increased lymphangiogenesis in CC. Co-immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, and Western blot showed that RACK1 activated AKT/mTOR signaling by interacting with IGF1R. POU2F2 binds to RACK1 promoter and regulates RACK1 transcription, thus functionally contributing to glycolysis and lymphangiogenesis in CC. Importantly, administration of 2-deoxy-D-glucose, which attenuates glycolysis, inhibited RACK1-induced lymphangiogenesis in CC. The positive correlations between RACK1, IGF1R, POU2F2, and HK2 were further confirmed in CC tissues.
Conclusion

RACK1 plays an important role in CC tumor lymph node metastasis by regulating IGF1R/AKT/mTOR signaling mediated glycolysis pathways. Targeting the POU2F2/ RACK1/IGF1R/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway may provide a novel strategy for CC treatment.
Comparative Analyses of Scylla Olivacea Gut Microbiota Composition and Function Suggest the Capacity for Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Biosynthesis
Authors: Lau Nyok-Sean , Ting Seng Yeat , Sam Ka-Kei , M. Janaranjani , Wong Swe Cheng , Wu Xugan , Waiho Khor , Fazhan Hanafiah , Shu-Chien Alexander Chong
Published: January 2022

Multiple studies have linked lipid metabolism with intestinal bacterial structure in aquatic organisms. However, the possibility of the gut microbiota participating in synthesizing beneficial long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) remains vague. We profiled the gut microbiota of mud crab Scylla olivacea fed with either a LC-PUFA rich diet (FO), a LC-PUFA-poor but C18-PUFA substrate rich diet (LOCO), and diet with a similar profile as LOCO but with the inclusion of an antibiotic, oxolinic acid. Additionally, the microbiota of wild-caught S. olivacea was also analyzed. Compared to diet FO treatment, crabs fed diet LOCO contain a higher proportion of Proteobacteria, represented by Vibrio and Shewanella, two known taxonomy groups with PUFA biosynthesis capacity. Annotation of metagenomic datasets also suggests functional contribution by these two genera in terms of the KEGG pathway of unsaturated fatty acids biosynthesis and the keto-acyl synthase domains in the microbiota of LOCO treatment. Diet LOCOAB impeded the presence of Vibrio and Shewanella within the gut, and concurrently, the abundance of PUFA biosynthesis pathway-related genes. However, there was an increase in the function of short-chain fatty acids production within this diet, which was accompanied by a shift towards the abundance of phyla Bacteroidota and Spirochaetota, represented by Sunxiuqinia and Carboxylicivirga and Sediminispirochaeta, respectively. Collectively, these results exemplified bacterial communities and their corresponding PUFA biosynthesis pathways in the microbiota of a farmed crustacean species.
Whole-Genome SNP Analysis for Typing the Pandemic Pathogen Fusarium Graminearum Sensu Stricto
Authors: Kulik Tomasz , Molcan Tomasz , Fiedorowicz Grzegorz , Diepeningen Anne van , Stakheev Alexander , Treder Kinga , Olszewski Jacek , Bilska Katarzyna , Beyer Marco , Pasquali Matias , Stenglein Sebastian
Published: January 2022

Recent improvements in microbiology and molecular epidemiology were largely stimulated by whole- genome sequencing (WGS), which provides an unprecedented resolution in discriminating highly related genetic backgrounds. WGS is becoming the method of choice in epidemiology of fungal diseases, but its application is still in a pioneer stage, mainly due to the limited number of available genomes. Fungal pathogens often belong to complexes composed of numerous cryptic species. Detecting cryptic diversity is fundamental to understand the dynamics and the evolutionary relationships underlying disease outbreaks. In this study, we explore the value of whole-genome SNP analyses in identification of the pandemic pathogen Fusarium graminearum sensu stricto (F.g.). This species is responsible for cereal diseases and negatively impacts grain production worldwide. The fungus belongs to the monophyletic fungal complex referred to as F. graminearum species complex including at least sixteen cryptic species, among them a few may be involved in cereal diseases in certain agricultural areas. We analyzed WGS data from a collection of 99 F.g. strains and 33 strains representing all known cryptic species belonging to the FGSC complex. As a first step, we performed a phylogenomic analysis to reveal species-specific clustering. A RAxML maximum likelihood tree grouped all analyzed strains of F.g. into a single clade, supporting the clustering-based identification approach. Although, phylogenetic reconstructions are essential in detecting cryptic species, a phylogenomic tree does not fulfill the criteria for rapid and cost-effective approach for identification of fungi, due to the time-consuming nature of the analysis. As an alternative, analysis of WGS information by mapping sequence data from individual strains against reference genomes may provide useful markers for the rapid identification of fungi. We provide a robust framework for typing F.g. through the web-based PhaME workflow available at EDGE bioinformatics. The method was validated through multiple comparisons of assembly genomes to F.g. reference strain PH-1. We showed that the difference between intra- and interspecies variability was at least two times higher than intraspecific variation facilitating successful typing of F.g. This is the first study which employs WGS data for typing plant pathogenic fusaria.
In Silico Study for Acyclovir and Its Derivatives Against Mpro of nCoV: Temperature Dependent Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Babu Madhur Singh , Jain Pallavi , Kumari Kamlesh , Kumar Vinod , Singh Prashant , Bahadur Indra
Published: January 2022

In the present work three molecules acyclovir (A) and ganciclovir (B) are reported to cure the infection from herpes virus and others. We have designed a derivative of hydroxymethyl derivative of ganciclovir (CH2OH of G, that is D) and investigated its potential against the Mpro of nCoV and compared with A & B. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations of A, G and D were performed using Gaussian on applying B3LYP under default condition to investigate the delocalization of electron density in their optimized geometry. Free energy of A, G and D were found to be -810.66964, -925.16575 and -1039.66047 Hartree per particle. It can be clearly seen that D have least free energy. Further, the molecular docking of the A, B and D against the Mpro of nCoV performed using iGemdock and the binding energy for A, B and D are found to be -105.068, -110.605 and -119.226 kcal/mol. It can be clearly seen the D showed effective binding, that is maximum inhibition. For better understanding for the inhibition of the Mpro of nCoV by A, B and D, molecular dynamics simulations were performed at different temperatures, (290, 300, 310 and 320 K). Various trajectories like RMSD, RMSF, Rg and hydrogen bond were extracted and analyzed. The results of molecular docking corroborate the MD simulations that is, a better inhibitor of Mpro of nCoV.
Whole-brain Irradiation With or Without Hippocampal Sparing in Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma: Impact of Sites of Primary Lesions and Recurrences on Personalized Treatment
Authors: Mazzarella Ciro , Chiesa Silvia , Toppi Lucrezia , Hohaus Stefan , D’Alo Francesco , Dinapoli Nicola , Gaudino Simona , Bartoli Francesco Beghella , Frascino Vincenzo , Davide Resta , Gambacorta Maria Antonietta , Colosimo Cesare , Valentini Vincenzo , Balducci Mario
Published: January 2022

PurposeOne of the main limiting factors of whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) for primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is the impairment of neurocognitive functions (NCFs), which is mainly caused by radiation-induced injury to the hippocampus. With a view to preventing NCF impairment and personalizing treatment, we explored the feasibility of sparing the hippocampus during WBRT by correlating the sites of PCNSL lesions with the hippocampus. Methods and MaterialsPre-treatment MR images from patients who underwent WBRT between 2010 and January 2020 - and post-radiotherapy images in cases of relapse - were imported into the Varian Eclipse treatment-planning system and registered with the simulation CT. We constructed three 3-dimensional envelopes around the hippocampus at distances of 5, 10 and 15mm and also contoured primary lesions and recurrences.ResultsWe analyzed 43 patients with 66 primary lesions: 9/66 (13.6%) involved the hippocampus and 11/66 (16.7%) were located within 5mm of it. Thirtysix lesions (54.5%) were situated more than 15 mm from the hippocampus, while 10/66 (15.2%) were between 5 and 15 mm from it. The most common location was in deep brain structures (31%). Thirty-five of the 66 lesions relapsed: 14/35 (40%) in the same location and 21/35 (60%) in different sites. Globally, 16/35 recurrences (45.7%) were located in the hippocampus or within 5mm of it.ConclusionThese data show that routinely sparing the hippocampus is not feasible. This approach could be considered in selected patients, when the lesion is more than 15 mm from the hippocampus.
Identification of Novel Hub Genes in Atherosclerosis Induced by Abnormal Endothelial Shear Stress via Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Zhu Guoqi , Lai Yan , Chen Fei , Qian Jun , lin Hao , Yuan Deqiang , Yao Tongqing , Liu XueBo
Published: January 2022

Background: Abnormal endothelial shear stress (ESS) is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis (AS); however, the genes and pathways between ESS and AS are poorly understood. Here, we screened hub genes and potential regulatory targets linked to the progression of AS induced by abnormal ESS. Methods: GSE45225, GSE23289 and GSE43292 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The limma package in R was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The common DEGs of GSE45225 and GSE43292 were regarded as low-ESS-AS related genes. Co-DEGs obtained from GSE23289 and GSE43292 were considered as high-ESS-AS related genes. Next, Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were conducted. Molecular interaction networks were assembled and their crucial genes were identified using Cytoscape. Our findings were also verified in GSE28829, GSE100927. Results: A total of 85 low-ESS-AS related genes and 118 high-ESS-AS related genes were identified. FBXO32, ICAM1 and TNFRSF1B were identified as key hub genes and validated in the GSE28829, GSE100927. ROC analysis indicates that FBXO32 (AUC=0.782), ICAM1 (AUC=0.822) and TNFRSF1B (AUC=0.801) could effectively distinguish the atherosclerotic plaque and normal arterial. Conclusion: We identified ICAM1, TNFRSF1B and FBXO32 as key genes associated with abnormal ESS and AS and may provide potential prevention and treatment target of AS induced by abnormal ESS.
Long-Term Straw Return Increases Biological Nitrogen Fixation by Increasing Soil Organic Carbon and Decreasing Available Nitrogen in Rice–Rapeseed Rotation
Authors: Fan Huishan , Jia Shengqiang , Yu Man , Chen Xijing , Shen Alin , Su Yao
Published: January 2022

Background

Straw return can affect the soil nitrogen (N) balance by changing soil carbon (C) and N components and contents. To understand how straw return affects soil N fixation capacity, relations between biological N fixation and changes in soil C and N contents at different depths need to be examined.
Method

Soil samples were collected at 20-cm intervals from 0 to 100 cm after 5 years of a rice–rapeseed rotation system with straw return (ST) and without (CK). Organic C and inorganic N contents, potential N fixation rate, and abundance and population composition of N-fixing bacteria were analyzed at different soil depths.
Results

Compared with CK, ST increased soil organic C (SOC), particulate organic C (POC), mineral-associated organic C (MOC), and total N (TN) but decreased nitrate-N (NO3−-N). Straw return also increased abundance of N-fixing bacteria 2.9 to 18.2-fold at depths from 0 to 40 cm and potential N fixation rate at 0–20 cm by 24.78%, which was equivalent to an annual increase in N fixation of approximately 0.01 to 0.54 kg·ha−1. Long-term ST significantly affected the composition of N-fixing bacteria at depths from 0 to 40 cm.
Conclusions

Long-term straw return can effectively increase potential N fixation rate in soil and change the structure of the N-fixing bacterial community by increasing SOC and decreasing N availability. The experiment showed that SOC, POC, TN, and NO3−-N were the main environmental factors driving changes in abundance, activity, and population composition of soil N-fixing bacteria under ST.
Managing Metabolic Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases: A Field Trial
Authors: Asadi-Aliabadi Mehran , Karimi Seyed M , Mirbaha-Hashemi Fariba , Tehrani-Banihashemi Arash , Janani Leila , Babaee Ebrahim , Nojomi Marzieh , Moradi-Lakeh Maziar
Published: January 2022

Background: Non-communicable diseases can be controlled and managed by reducing their associated metabolic risk factors. In this study, a set of intervention packages were designed to reduce the prevalence of metabolic risk factors in the community by motivating non-physician health workers. Methods: A field trial study was conducted in 4 districts of Iran. Thirty-two community health centers were randomly selected in the districts. A survey of 30 to 70-year-old participants in each community health center was conducted to measure baseline metabolic risk factors. The intervention packages focused on improving hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity and overweight. The interventions included goal-setting, evidence-based education, operational planning, and incentive payments for non-physician health workers. A second survey to measure the final metabolic risk factors was performed after one year. The difference-in-difference method was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention packages.Results: The average age of participants in both surveys was 49 years, and the sex ratio did not change. In percentage of surveyed individuals with a college education was greater in non-intervention centers. The interventions had statistically significant effects only on decreasing the prevalence of overweight and obesity. The package with all the interventions except pay-for-performance decreased the odds of overweight and obesity to 0.57 (95% CI: 0.34, 0.95). Conclusion: Involving non-physician health workers and having action plans based on the health needs of the covered population, as well as holding training courses, and introducing new prevention and control strategies, can decrease obesity and overweight in the community. However, longer trials are needed to observe the effects on hypertension and hyperlipidemia.Trial Registration: This trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20081205001488N2) on 3 June 2018 (https://en.irct.ir/trial/774).
Health resource utilization and cost before versus after initiation of second-generation long-acting injectable antipsychotics among adults with schizophrenia in Alberta, Canada: a retrospective, observational single-arm study
Authors: Wong Kai On , Klarenbach Scott W , Martins Karen JB , Chue Pierre , Dursun Serdar M , Snaterse Mark , Guigue Alexis , So Helen , Luu Huong , Richer Lawrence
Published: January 2022

Background

Long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics, along with community treatment orders (CTOs), are used to improve treatment effectiveness through adherence among individuals with schizophrenia. Understanding real-world medication adherence, and healthcare resource utilization (HRU) and costs in individuals with schizophrenia overall and by CTO status before and after second generation antipsychotic (SGA)-LAI initiation may guide strategies to optimize treatment among those with schizophrenia.
Methods

This retrospective observational single-arm study utilized administrative health data from Alberta, Canada. Adults (≥18 years) with schizophrenia who initiated a SGA-LAI (no use in the previous 2-years) between April 1, 2014 and March 31, 2016, and had ≥1 additional dispensation of a SGA-LAI were included; index date was the date of SGA-LAI initiation. Medication possession ratio (MPR) was determined, and paired t-tests were used to examine mean differences in all-cause and mental health-related HRU and costs (Canadian dollars), comprised of hospitalizations, physician visits, emergency department visits, and total visits, over the 2-year post-index and 2-year pre-index periods. Analyses were stratified by presence or absence of an active CTO during the pre-index and/or post-index periods.
Results

Among 1,211 adults with schizophrenia who initiated SGA-LAIs, 64% were males with a mean age of 38 (standard deviation [SD] 14) years. The mean overall antipsychotic MPR was 0.39 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36, 0.41) greater during the 2-year post-index period (0.84 [SD 0.26]) compared with the 2-year pre-index period (0.45 [SD 0.40]). All-cause and mental health-related HRU and costs were lower post-index versus pre-index (p<0.001) for hospitalizations, physician visits, emergency department visits, and total visits; mean total all-cause HRU costs were $33,788 (95% CI -$38,993, -$28,583) lower post- versus pre-index ($40,343 [SD $68,887] versus $74,131 [SD $75,941]), and total mental health-related HRU costs were $34,198 (95%CI -$39,098, -$29,297) lower post- versus pre-index ($34,205 [SD $63,428] versus $68,403 [SD $72,088]) per-patient. Forty-three percent had ≥1 active CTO during the study period; HRU and costs varied according to CTO status.
Conclusions

SGA-LAIs are associated with greater medication adherence, and lower HRU and costs however the latter vary according to CTO status.
Clinical Presentation and Surgical Management of Peptic Ulcer Perforation in a Tertiary Hospital in Mogadishu- Somalia: A 5 Years Retrospective Study
Authors: Ali Abdihamid Mohamed , Mohamed Abdulkadir Nor , Mohamed Yahye Garad , Keleşoğlu Salim İdris
Published: January 2022

Background: Peptic ulcer perforation is a common surgical emergency condition worldwide, which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality if early diagnosis and immediate surgical management was not carried out. Perforation occurs in roughly 5% of PUD patients during their lifetime.Methods: A 5 years Retrospective observational study on the clinical Presentation and Surgical Management of Peptic Ulcer Perforation in a Tertiary Hospital in Mogadishu- Somalia, department of General Surgery from January 2017 to December 2021. We included all patients undergoing operations with an intra-operative confirmed diagnosis of peptic ulcer perforation at the general surgery department. For operated patients, follow-up evaluation was performed in the outpatient department.Results: Fifty-one patients underwent an emergency operation for peptic ulcer perforation during the study period. The socio-demographic distribution of patients was 45(88.2%) males and 6 (11.8%) females, giving a male to female ratio of 7.5:1.The mean age of patients was 35.5±16.8 years, and the peak frequency was in the third decade. The commonest presenting symptoms were sudden onset of severe epigastric pain in 42 (82.4%) patients. Patients who presented perforated peptic ulcer within 24 hours of initiation of symptoms were free from complications.Age group and delayed presentation > 48 hours after onset of symptoms were linked to post-operative complications and were statistically significant (P 0.032), (P0.005) respectively. Four patients died (mortality rate of 7.8%). Two patient was reoperated because of the failed primary repair and 4 patients had >5cm intra-abdominal abscess image-guided percutaneous drainage was performed and the rest antibiotic therapy according to peritoneal fluid culture and sensitivity results.The most common microorganism isolated was E. coli 22% and Klebsiella 11%. Other rare microorganisms (pseudomonas, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida spp) were identified. Half 51% of Peritoneal fluid culture no micro-organism growth was seen.Conclusion: The distribution of peptic ulcer perforation is common in the young age group in the third decades of life. Delayed presentation of the disease is linked because most patients arrived from remote areas where proper facilities of health care and health education are not available and the patient might come to the hospital in an advanced stage of the disease. We suggest conducting further researches, health awareness related to complications over-the-counter drugs self-medication, and bad habit including smoking, and to improve health-seeking behaviors of society.
MED15-TFE3 Renal Cell Carcinoma: a Xp11 Translocation Renal Cell Carcinoma Subtype With Distinct Clinicopathological Features and Superior Prognosis
Authors: Gan Weidong , Dong Xiang , Guo Wei , Zhou Peng , Pan Jun , Guo Hongqian
Published: January 2022

Background: MED15-TFE3 renal cell carcinoma is a rare subtype of the Xp11 translocation renal cell carcinoma. To data, only 14 cases of MED15-TFE3 renal cell carcinoma have been reported worldwide.Methods: MED15-TFE3 gene fusion was identified in two cases of Xp11 translocation renal cell carcinoma by using RNA-sequencing. We reviewed and summarized the clinicopathological characteristics, imaging features and prognosis of the MED15-TFE3 renal cell carcinoma. Results: Morphologically, MED15-TFE3 RCC have the typical cystic-solid (mostly cystic) structure. The tumor cells had round nuclei with inconspicuous nucleoli and abundant clear or eosinophilic cytoplasm. Psammoma bodies were randomly distributed within the stroma. Immunohistochemically, the typical TFE3 positive staining could be observed in both cases. The split red-green signal also revealed the positive results in fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assay. Finally, RNA sequencing detected the existence of MED15-TFE3 gene fusion. One pediatric patient developed renal hilar lymph node metastasis before surgery. However, during the follow-up period, no disease recurrence and metastasis happened to both patients. Conclusions: Different from the traditional Xp11 translocation RCC, MED15-TFE3 RCC may have the distinctive cystic-solid structure and superior prognosis. These findings enhanced our understanding of the heterogeneity in Xp11 translocation RCC.
Identification of Hub Genes and Molecular Mechanism Associated With the Progression of Pediatric Low Grade Gliomas
Authors: Tao Hualin , Zeng Chuyi , Zuo Zhihua
Published: January 2022

Background: To explore hub genes and underlying molecular mechanism about the malignant progression of pediatric low grade gliomas (PLGG). Methods: The microarray were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus database and hub genes were identified by bioinformatics analysis. Results: Ten hub genes were confirmed to increase with the development of PLGG, and their high expression was correlated with poor prognosis. Additionally, the encoding protein expression level of CDK1, KIF11, TRIP13, MAD2L1, PBK were significantly higher in high grade glioma tissues than that in PLGG. Finally, functional enrichment analysis demonstrated these genes were mainly enriched in cell cycle activities. Conclusion: Our results offer novel insights of the molecular mechanisms and identify potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for PLGG progression.
The potential effect of blood glucose on the obesity paradox in patients with severe stroke: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Ma Zisheng , Li Shunxian , Lin Xinjiang
Published: January 2022

Background: On the one hand, according to the obesity paradox, patients with excessive BMI will have lower mortality after onset. On the other hand, due to higher levels of glucose induced by excessive BMI, they will suffer a worse prognosis. This is contradictory. In the present study, we aim to prove the obesity paradox in critically ill stroke patients and find out the potential role of increased glucose.Methods: This was a retrospective observational study about patients with acute stroke in the intensive care unit (ICU) and all data were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC-III) database. The main exposure was BMI classified into normal group (18.5≤ BMI＜25), excessive group (BMI≥ 25). The outcome concluded 30-day, 90-day and 1-year mortality. The association between two BMI groups and mortality was elucidated by Cox regression models, propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). The underlying effect of blood glucose on the “obesity paradox” was analyzed by causal mediation analysis. Results: A total of 522 patients were included in our study, of which 177 were the normal group and 345 were the excessive group. According to Cox regression models, a significant beneficial effect of excessive BMI in terms of mortality was observed: 30-day mortality (HR 0.57, 95%CI 0.35-0.90, p = 0.017), 90-day mortality (HR 0.53, 95%CI 0.36-0.78, p = 0.001) and 1-year mortality (HR 0.65, 95%CI 0.46-0.91, p = 0.013). The conclusions were stable after propensity score matching and inverse probability of treatment weighting. There were no interactions between BMI, gender, age, and diabetes. The causal mediation analysis showed that the increased glucose level would reduce the protective effect of excessive BMI on 30-day mortality.Conclusions: In severe stroke patients, those with excessive BMI are linked to lower mortality, while the protective effect on 30-day mortality weakened accompanied by the acute increase of glucose level.