bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upgrading of Food Waste in-vessel Composting Process: Effects of Biochar-rich Digestate Addition
Authors: Chaher Nour El houda , Nassour Abdallah , Nelles Michael , Hamdi Moktar
Published: December 2020

Nowadays, Tunisia faces challenging environmental and energic issues which concern mainly the implementation of an appropriate solid waste management system dealing with the high production of biowaste in one hand and the increased need for water and energy resources in the other hand. Therefore, the current study intended to develop a technical concept on closed cycle ‘biowaste to bioenergy’, treating mainly food waste (FW) through combined biological processes. In this approach, FW anaerobic digestion (AD) residue was destined to feed FW in vessel-composting as a valuable input material. To this end, the produced digestates from amended and unamended anaerobic reactors were entirely examined to select later the most appropriate AD-effluent. Therefore, the identification of the convenient digestate was achieved based on technical criteria ; moisture content (MC), C : N ratio and heavy metals concentrations. The findings showed that the digestate obtained from different digesters was characterized by a high moisture content which inspired its utilization as an unconventional moisturizing agent (MA) reducing the fresh water consumption during the composting process. Because of the high C : N ratio, relatively significant rate of the needed macro and micro-nutrients, the exploitation of biochar-rich digestate was recomended to be used as an unconventional MA in one hand and an aerobic co-substrate booster in the other hand. Results showed that D3 addition promoted the composting process performance comparing to the blank test (A1). Indeed, the thermophilic phase of the amended reactor (A2) lasted 15 days and reached higher temperatures of about 67 °C, while the unamended one (A1) was characterized by a thermophilic temperature of around 63 °C indicating that the end-products were of a pathogen-free compost. When it comes to the physico-chemical factors examined demonstrating that the biological conditions were sufficiently developed. The findings showed overall decreasing profiles during the composting period for moisture, C : N ratio as well as nitrification index (NI). From the quality-point of view, it was found that heavy metal concentrations had lower limits than those values set by German standards. Moreover, all the compost samples appeared to be stable and classified as class IV and V end-product.
Comparative Transcriptomics Provides Insight into Rind Color Polymorphism in Watermelon
Authors: Liu Dongming , Yang Huihui , Sun Dongling , Zhang Minjuan , Dou Junling , Yang Sen , Zhu Huayu , Hu Jianbin , Sun Shouru , Yang Luming
Published: December 2020

Background: As an important agronomic trait affecting breeding and consumption choice, the rind color of watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. and Nakai] receives considerable attention from breeders. Although rind color occupies an important place in watermelon breeding work, the underlying molecular mechanism governing this complex trait has still not been determined. Results: In the present study, chlorophyll and carotenoid contents were hypothesized to be the main factors determining rind color. Clearly different structures and numbers of chloroplasts and grana lamellae were found among materials with different rind colors. To study the genes involved in the coloration process of the yellow, dark green, light green, and light green-gray rinds, 84,516 unigenes were obtained from the rind transcriptome. Through DEGs screening and pathway analysis of chlorophyll and carotenoid mechanism, the genes with abnormal expression levels were identified. Then, the nucleotide sequences and expression levels of the putative genes responsible for different rind colors were studied.Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive insight on the factors affecting rind coloration and investigated expression levels of the critical genes concerning pigment metabolism in watermelon. These results would help to analyze the molecular mechanisms of rind coloration regulation and development of the related organelles.
Comparative metabolites profiling of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua seed during sand storage and germination
Authors: Jin Qing , Tong Jinfeng , Zhang Wenwu , Xia Long , Zhu Xiaoyun , Ran Rui , Chang Yan , Zhang Jie , Cai Yongping
Published: December 2020

Background: The seeds of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua have dormancy phenomenon. Previous studies have shown that sand storage factors effects of the seed dormancy of P. cyrtonema Hua seeds and enhance the seed germination process. Subsequently, metabolic activities and different changes during the sand storage and germination process of P. cyrtonema Hua seed has not been heavily researched.Results: In this study the changes in the metabolites of P. cyrtonema Hua seeds at different sand storage times and germination stages, we used untargeted metabolomics to determine them. Most of the sugar and glycoside contents in seed coat increased after 30 d on the other hand, in peeled seeds increased at 30 d and decreased at 60 d after sand storage treatment. The content of proline and benzoic acid decreased in the seed coat after sand storage. PCA, OPLS-DA and HCA showed that the contents of most metabolites increased after 7 d and decreased after 14 d of seed germination. The process of 7 d to 14 d was the key stage of seed germination of P. cyrtonema Hua. Differential metabolic pathway analysis showed that seed germination was controlled by multiple metabolic pathways. Metabolic correlation revealed the interdependence between seed germination metabolites and metabolic pathways. Conclusion: Sand storage can significantly increase the rate of seed germination and play a vital role in seed dormancy of P. cyrtonema Hua. There was inherent differences in metabolites during different storage time and germination stages in P. cyrtonema Hua. Our work provides a first glimpse of the metabolome in seed germination of P. cyrtonema Hua, and provides a valuable informations for revealing the mechanism of breaking seed dormancy.
Genetic analysis of DNA methylation in dyslipidemia: a case-control study
Authors: Ma Yi-Tong , Liu Shuai , Li Yang , Wei Xian , Adi Dilare , Wang Yong-Tao , Han Min , Liu Fen , Chen Bang-Dang , Li Xiao-Mei , Yang Yi-Ning , Fu Zhen-Yan
Published: December 2020

In our previous study, we explored the relationship between TBL2 gene DNA methylation and high-low-density lipoproteinemia (Hyper-LDL). However, Hyper-LDL is only one type of dyslipidemia. In order to expand the scope of clinical application, we explored the correlation between DNA methylation of genes related to lipid metabolism and dyslipidemia in this study. This study is a case-control study. A total of 180 samples were included in this study from the Heart Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. The BSAS method was used to detect the DNA methylation levels and haplotypes of AMFR, FBXW7, INSIG1, INSIG2, MBTPS1 and GRINA genes. A total of 259 CpG sites and 14 regions were detected. The study found that a total of 24 CpG sites DNA methylation and 20 haplotypes were statistically different. The GRINA gene DNA methylation level in the dyslipidemia group was higher than that in the control group (2.68 vs 2.36, p = 0.04). ttttttttttttcttttttttttt is significant methylation haplotype of GRINA (p=0.017). Through logistics analysis, it is found that GRINA gene DNA methylation is an independent risk factor for dyslipidemia, and the increase of GRINA gene DNA methylation level will increase the prevalence of dyslipidemia.
EARN: an ensemble machine learning algorithm to predict driver genes in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Mirsadeghi Leila , Hosseini Reza Haji , Banaei-Moghaddam Ali Mohammad , Kavousi Kaveh
Published: December 2020

BackgroundToday, there are a lot of markers on the prognosis and diagnosis of complex diseases such as primary breast cancer. However, our understanding of the drivers that influence cancer aggression is limited.MethodsIn this work, we study somatic mutation data consists of 450 metastatic breast tumor samples from cBio Cancer Genomics Portal. We use four software tools to extract features from this data. Then, an ensemble classifier (EC) learning algorithm called EARN (Ensemble of Artificial Neural Network, Random Forest, and non-linear Support Vector Machine) is proposed to evaluate plausible driver genes for metastatic breast cancer (MBCA). ResultsThis study is an attempt to focus on the findings in several aspects of MBCA prognosis and diagnosis. First, drivers and passengers predicted by SVM, ANN, RF, and EARN are introduced. Second, biological inferences of predictions based on gene set enrichment analysis are discussed. Third, statistical validation and comparison of all learning methods based on evaluation metrics are done. Finally, the pathway enrichment analysis (PEA) using ReactomeFIVIz tool (FDR<0.03) for the top 100 genes predicted by EARN leads us to propose a new gene set panel for MBCA, including HDAC3, ABAT, GRIN1, PLCB1, and KPNA2 as well as NCOR1, TBL1XR1, SIRT4, KRAS, CACNA1E, PRKCG, GPS2, SIN3A, ACTB, KDM6B, and PRMT1. Furthermore, we compare results for MBCA to other outputs regarding 983 primary tumor samples of breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA) obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The comparison between outputs shows that ROC-AUC reached 99.24% using EARN for MBCA and 99.79% for BRCA. This statistical result is better than three individual classifiers in each case.ConclusionsThis research using an integrative approach assists precision oncologists to design compact targeted panels that eliminate the need for whole-genome/exome sequencing.
Health Determinants of Life Satisfaction Among Elderly Persons: A multivariate Analysis
Authors: Hong Rou-Qin , Rahman Hanif Abdul , Ali Mursidi , Hoon Chang-Yau , Slesman Ly , Tengah Armah , Yusof Yusnani Mohd , Abdul-Mumin Khadizah H.
Published: December 2020

Purpose: Level of satisfaction is significantly influenced by health-related factors across human life course. Multidimensions of health and other factors such as religion and culture influence life satisfaction that differ across different societies. Prior research shows that there are variations in the relationship between health factors and life-satisfaction between Western and Asian countries. Nevertheless, it is still unknown to what extend health factors are related to life satisfaction in Brunei Darussalam—a country with small population but increasing in proportion of elderly population. This study aimed to explore health determinants of life satisfaction among elderly population in Brunei Darussalam. Methods: A cross-sectional study on a sample of 645 adults aged above 50 years, recruited nationally. Descriptive statistics and multivariate regression analysis were applied. Results: A robust model (R2=49.3%, alpha>0.7) suggested that life satisfaction in this population could largely be explained by musculoskeletal pain, difficulty to perform daily activities, psychological and emotional issues, and family support. Gender has significant moderating effects on this relationship. Conclusion: Impacts of life satisfaction from health, social, cultural, and related perspectives were discussed. These findings in this research may contribute to ongoing multi-sectorial efforts to design a comprehensive model of elderly care to achieve high quality of life.
Who are the beneficiaries and what are the reasons for non-utilization of respite care? A cross-sectional study on family caregivers
Authors: Huang Jianan , Münzel Nadja , Scheel-Sailer Anke , Gemperli Armin
Published: December 2020

BackgroundFamily caregivers assume substantial caregiving responsibilities for persons with chronic conditions, which leads to negative impact on their lives. Respite care is provided as a temporary relief for them. The design of appropriate respite care programs requires the identification of beneficiary subgroups for different types of services. The objectives of the study were to quantify the uptake of respite care services by family caregivers of persons with spinal cord injury, and to identify the main beneficiaries of the respective offers and the reasons for non-use.MethodsA cross-sectional survey of family caregivers of persons with spinal cord injury was conducted nationwide in Switzerland. The use of 11 different respite care services during the last 12 months was investigated, along with caregivers’ reasons for not using any respite service. Classification trees were used to characterize the beneficiaries and reasons for not using respite services.ResultsOne-third of family caregivers used at least one type of respite care service during the last 12 months. Utilization of respite care was found to be greater among those who employed professional home care (57% vs 24% among those without professional home care). There were marked cantonal differences in the utilization of respite care. The primary reason for not using respite services was “no demand” (80% among non-users of respite services), mainly among caregivers who were less emotionally affected by their caregiving tasks. Conclusions Utilization of respite care services primarily depends on living arrangements and place of residency and less on the functional status of the care recipient. Programs should thus be tailored to the cultural context of their potential users. This is best achieved through coordination with local health care professionals who can identify the needs, provide information, initiate referrals, and integrate the care into a larger support plan.
Construction and Characterization of EGFP Reporter Plasmid Harboring Putative Human RAX Promoter for in vitro Monitoring of Retinal Progenitor Cells Identity
Authors: Atefi Atefeh , kojouri Pendar Shojaei , Karamali Fereshteh , Irani Shiva , Esfahani Mohammad Hossein Nasr
Published: December 2020

Background : In retinal degenerative disease, progressive and debilitating conditions result in deterioration of retinal cells and visual loss. In human, retina lacks the inherent capacity for regeneration. Therefore, regeneration of retinal layer from human retinal progenitor cells (hRPCs) is a challenging task and restricted in vitro maintenance of hRPCs remains as the main hurdle. Retina and anterior neural fold homeobox gene ( RAX ) play critical roles in developing retina and maintenance of hRPCs. In this study, for the first time regulatory regions of human RAX gene with potential promoter activity were experimentally investigated. Results: For this purpose, after in silico analysis of regulatory regions of human RAX gene, the expression of EGFP reporter derived by putative promoter sequences was first evaluated in 293T cells and then in hRPCS derived from human embryonic stem cells. The candidate region ( RAX -3258bp) showed the highest EGFP expression in hRPCs. This reporter construct can be used for invitro monitoring of hRPC identity and verification of an efficient culture medium for maintenance of these cells. Conclusions: Furthermore, our findings provide a platform for better insight into regulatory regions of human RAX gene and molecular mechanisms underlying its vital functions in retina development.
Green Solvent Improving Mechanical Disruption of Palm Kernel Oil Extraction
Authors: Sitepu Eko K. , Chandra Andy , Zaidar Emma F. , Vika Annur , Sebayang Firman , Dewi Fera Roswita , Karo-karo Justaman , Tarigan Juliati Br
Published: December 2020

Even though the mechanical extraction process offers a simple and environmentally friendly process, the recovery of oil is relatively low. Thermal pre-treating the oilseed increases the oil yield but produces unwanted oil colour. A new method which combines grinding and extraction using green solvents was developed to extract palm kernel oil. The performance of six different green solvents such as water, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, dimethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, and d-limonene in extraction palm kernel oil was determined using a controllable blender extractor (CBE), new extraction equipment modified from a household blender appliance. Further, ethyl acetate, which produced the maximum oil yield, was used to study the effect of the operating parameters of the CBE. The oil yield of 34.2 ± 0.02% was obtained in the extraction condition of the ratio of palm kernel to ethyl acetate of 1:7, rotational speed of 5000 rpm and 10 minutes extraction time. Compared to other green extraction methods, the CBE-intensified palm kernel oil extraction could save >70% energy consumption. In terms of extraction time, the CBE-intensified could extract palm kernel oil faster than existing extraction methods.
Sphingosine 1-phosphate, a Novel TREM2 Ligand, Promotes Phagocytosis and Reduce Ischemic Injury
Authors: Sun Xiu-Lan , Xue Teng-Fei , Ji Juan , Guo Ruo-Bing , Sun Yu-Qin , Wang Xi-Peng , Guo Wei , Cai Zhen-Yu , Huang Xin-Xin , Yang Jin , Cheng Hong , Shi Hai-Bin
Published: December 2020

Background: Activation of TREM2 protects against brain injury in ischemic stroke via immunoregulation. However, the endogenous ligand of TREM2 remains unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that S1P, an immunoregulator, functions as TREM2 ligand to promote microglial phagocytosis.Methods: SD rats, C57BL/6J mice and TREM2-/- mice were subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion, and primary microglia were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation. Phagocytosis was investigated via immunofluorescence and two-photon microscope. LC-MS/MS, microscale thermophoresis and surface plasmon resonance were used to confirm the TREM2-S1P interaction.Results: FTY720, an analog of S1P, promoted microglial phagocytosis in ischemic stroke independent of S1PRs expressed on microglia. S1P was confirmed to be a novel endogenous ligand for TREM2 and promote cellular debris clearance. The enhanced cellular debris clearance ameliorated neurological score and infarct volume, relying on TREM2. Moreover, FTY720 was demonstrated to promote hemoglobin clearance in intracerebral hemorrhage and ameliorate hemorrhagic injury.Conlusions: The present work reveals for the first time that S1P acts as a novel endogenous ligand of TREM2 to effectively promote microglial phagocytosis, and provides a new lead compound for developing TREM2 modulator.
Can Gamma Glutamyle Transferase Predict Unhealthy Metabolic Phenotype in Healthcare Workers in Azar Cohort Study?
Authors: Somi Mohammadhossein , Zakavi Sina , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Frounchi Negin , Gilani Neda , Faramarzi Elnaz
Published: December 2020

Background: There is a close connection between serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), insulin resistance, and the increased number of the components of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, there are no studies evaluating the correlation between GGT and cardiometabolic phenotype. Thus, the main objective of the current study is to evaluate the relationship between GGT and cardiometabolic phenotypes among healthcare workers in Azar Cohort Study.Method: In this cross-sectional study, anthropometric measurements, fasting blood sugar (FBS), triglyceride (TG), cholesterol, high lipoprotein density (HDL), GGT, and blood pressure of 1458 healthcare workers were evaluated. MetS was determined according to the report by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III). We classified participants into four cardiometabolic phenotypes. These phenotypes consist of metabolically-healthy lean (MHL) (no MetS and BMI < 25 kg/m2), metabolically-unhealthy lean (MUHL) (MetS present and BMI < 25 kg/m2), metabolically-healthy obese (MHO) (no MetS and BMI ≥25 kg/m2), and metabolically-unhealthy obese (MUHO) (MetS present and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2).Results: The first and third GGT tertiles have the highest prevalence of MHL (31%) and MHO (65.1%), respectively, which is statistically significant (P-value ≤ 0.001). In comparison with the lowest GGT tertile, the odds of MHO and MUHO increased by 2.84 (95% CI 2.01-4.01) and 9.12 (95%CI 5.54-15), respectively. However, the correlation between MUHL and GGT tertile does not show a similar trend. According to the ROC curve, the cutoff value of 18.5 U/l for GGT allowed us to distinguish between MHO and MUHO.Conclusions: Based on the findings of the study, the GGT can be used as a biomarker to reveal the risk of MetS, and we believe that the GGT level can be used for the early detection of MHO at risk of MetS and for administering proper interventions.
Venous Thromboembolism and Ovarian Torsion-detorsion in Pregnancy: a Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature 
Authors: Zhao Peng , Zhao Ying , Zhang Quan , Zhou Zhu , Zhou Jianhong , Ruan Fei
Published: December 2020

The safety of adnexal detorsion in pregnant women is debatable as the hypercoagulable state during pregnancy intensifies the risk of thromboembolism. The diagnosis and treatment is challenging because its rarity and complexity due to the foetal health. Here we presented a rare case of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after ovarian detorsion during early pregnancy and conducted a review of the literature. VTE after ovarian torsion-detorsion in pregnancy is an infrequent event and is more likely to occur in the first and second trimester. The diagnosis depends mainly on the clinical manifestation, D-dimer level and imaging tests such as compression ultrasonography and computed tomography pulmonary angiogram. Low-molecular-weight heparin remains the drug of choice for both prophylactic measurement and therapeutic strategy. With prompt diagnosis and immediate treatment, VTE after ovarian torsion-detorsion is usually uneventful.
Experience and Challenges for Establishing Quarantine Facility for Suspected COVID-19 Cases: Field Briefing
Authors: Garg Shubha , Kumar Akshay , Nale Tushar , Verma Navin , Dhuria Meera , Jain S. K. , Singh Sujeet Kumar
Published: December 2020

Due to unprecedented SARS-CoV2 pandemic, in late January 2020, many countries in the world imposed travel ban. The governments across the world initiated repatriation operations for stranded nationals. It was important to instantly develop quarantine facilities for evacuees. As the disease was fairly new, data on it was sparse to fulfil the requirement. With this article, we are sharing our experience of establishing and managing India’s first quarantine facility for repatriate nationals focusing on key parameters including infection prevention & control, environmental cleaning and bio-medical waste management along with basic living requirements. The facility housed a total of 617 evacuees from China and Italy out of who 17 turned out positive on initial testing constituting 27.55% and one tested positive on the 14th day testing. Mindful of the level of exposure 25 contacts were traced and were prescribed additional quarantine period of fourteen days in the facility and discharged accordingly. All evacuees were put on community surveillance under State Surveillance Units by the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme. Supply of logistics, manpower management and ensuring compliance to protocols were some of the major challenges faced. Appropriate actions were designed and taken to address them. In conclusion, impeccable collaboration and coordination between different stakeholders is most essential ingredient for successful operation of any quarantine facility in the context of current pandemic.
Progress Towards Unique Patient Identification and Case-Based Surveillance within the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
Authors: Govender Kerensa , Long Lawrence , Miot Jacqui
Published: December 2020

Background: Despite significant advances within the South African Development Community (SADC) in making HIV care more accessible through universal prevention, testing, and treatment policies, the mobile nature of the population presents a challenge to tracking and linking of patients to HIV care, and other health services. Case-based surveillance (CBS) through individual-level clinical data linked and tracked with a unique patient identifier (UPI) has been recommended to create a more person-centred health information system, and is an important policy consideration within PEPFAR-supported countries.Methods: We conducted a landscape analysis of UPI and CBS implementation within selected SADC countries through a mixed-methods study design that included the following activities: 1) a literature review to gather evidence around UPI implementation and patient-tracking in the SADC region; 2) an assessment of progress towards UPI and CBS implementation within relatively high HIV prevalence SADC countries; and 3) a case-study of UPI implementation within selected South African primary healthcare (PHC) facilities.Results: Research into UPI implementation and movement towards CBS for the SADC region is lacking. Existing patient identification methods, such as name and surname, may not uniquely identify a patient or guarantee confidentiality. If a UPI has been assigned these are often facility specific, i.e. a patient can be tracked within a facility, but not across facilities. Other challenges include multiple identifiers allocated to one patient, incorrectly captured UPIs, preference for paper-based records and a lack of integration between numerous stand-alone health-information systems, e.g. laboratory databases and electronic health records, resulting in fragmented health information which limits patient-tracking and monitoring. Our analysis revealed that most countries were in the early-middle stages of the shift towards CBS and had challenges with UPI implementation. Our South African case-study found that the required identifier, which is critical for record-linkage and systems-integration, may often not be recorded.Conclusions: Until a fully functional and reliable UPI is in place difficulties tracking patients across prevention and care cascades will continue. Progress towards CBS was lagging in all countries, consistently hampered by a preference for paper-based records and difficulties implementing the UPI, underscoring a need for increased policy efforts and support to address this gap.
Prebiotic Food Intake may Improve Bone Resorption in Japanese Female Athletes
Authors: Ishizu Tatsuya , Takai Eri , Torii Suguru , Taguchi Motoko
Published: December 2020

Background: Several studies have reported that prebiotics are beneficial in improving bone health due to their balancing effect on the gut microbiota. As numerous Japanese female athletes have issues related to bone health, a better understanding of the bioactivity of prebiotics are essential. The present study aimed to attempt continuous intake of prebiotic food would balance the gut microbiota, resulting in improved bone metabolism turnover marker among the Japanese female athletes.Methods: The participants included 29 female athletes aged 18–25 years. They were requested to consume their habitual foods or drinks with one pack of prebiotic food every day for 12 weeks. Dietary intake, energy expenditure, body composition, blood sample, and faecal gut microbiota was assessed during this intervention period.Results: Body composition, total energy intake, and total energy expenditure of the participants revealed no significant changes during the intervention period. The occupation ratio of Bifidobacterium spp. was significantly increased at 3 and 4 weeks (18.0% ± 8.3% and 17.6% ± 8.5%, respectively) compared to that of pre-intervention (11.7% ± 7.3%) (p = 0.019 and p = 0.035, respectively). Serum TRACP-5b level was significantly decreased at 12 weeks (363 ± 112 mU/dL) compared to that at baseline (430 ± 154 mU/dL) (p = 0.018).Conclusions: These results suggest that continued intake of inulin and lactulose fortified prebiotic food might have beneficial effects on bone health and gut microbial environment among the female athletes. Further studies are warranted to identify the mechanism of the prebiotics-gut-bone axis.Trial registration: Umin Clinical Trials Registry, UMIN000029589. Registered 17 October 2017.
Diagnostic Value of the Microbiome in the Bronchoalveolar Fluid of Patients with Lung masses and its Relationship with their Clinical Features
Authors: Ye Maosong , Zhou Jian , Wu Shengdi , Xia Jingrong , Wei Sulan , Song Yuanlin , Tong Lin , Zhang Xin , Xu Nuo
Published: December 2020

Background: Bacterial communities were demonstrated to be correlated with patients with several respiratory diseases. Although some studies have been performed on the composition of the microbiota in lung cancer, the issue has not been fully addressed. Therefore, we characterized the microbiomes of patients with lung cancer and benign mass-like lesions and evaluated the relationship between microbiota and clinical features.Methods: Bronchoalveolar fluid of patients with lung masses was collected and analyzed by 16S rRNA-based next-generation sequencing. Then, the relationships between the composition of the microbiota and clinical features were evaluated. Results: The relative abundance of two genera, Megasphaera and Norank_p_saccharibacteria, and two phyla, Firmicutes and Saccharibacteria, were significantly increased, while one phyla Proteobacteria was decreased in patients with lung cancer. The genera Atoprevotella and 1 phylum, Bacteroidetes, were increased in patients with SCLC, while 1 phylum, Chloroflexi, was more abundant in patients with NSCLC than those with SCLC. Moreover, the patients whose BALF was enriched with the genus Capnocytophaga seemed to have a better response to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The area under the curve of a combination of two genera (megasphera and norank_p_Saccharibacteria) used to predict lung cancer was 0.803. The area under the curve of the genus Capnocytophaga in predicting the response to chemotherapy was 0.850.Conclusions: There are differences in the composition of the microbiome of patients with lung cancer and those with benign mass-like lesions. The lung microbiota may be used as a biomarker for diagnosing lung cancer and differentiating the cancer subtype and might have an impact in the response to cisplatin-based chemotherapy among patients with lung cancer.
Cost-Effectiveness of Lenalidomide Plus Rituximab Versus Rituximab Monotherapy in Patients with Previously Treated Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Thielen Frederick , Kersten Marie-José , Kuizenga Pim , Hoogendoorn Mels , Posthuma Eduardus FM , Stevens Wendy BC , Groot Carin A Uyl-de , Blommestein Hedwig M
Published: December 2020

Background: Efficacy of lenalidomide plus rituximab (R-LEN) compared to rituximab monotherapy (R-mono) for patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma (FL) was investigated in AUGMENT (NCT01938001). Our aim was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of R-LEN versus R-mono in this setting from a Dutch perspective.Methods: Cost-effectiveness was assessed through a partitioned survival model with three health states from three perspectives (i.e. societal, healthcare and societal including future non-medical costs). Patient-level data from AUGMENT informed effectiveness parameters (i.e. long-term survival) and health state utilities. Resource use and prices were based on AUGMENT and the literature. Clinical experts validated efficacy input parameters and results. Uncertainty was explored through sensitivity and scenario analyses.Results: R-LEN resulted in 1.7 incremental discounted QALYs. Total incremental discounted costs were 67,161 EUR from a societal perspective, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 40,493 EUR/QALY (healthcare: 37,951 EUR/QALY; societal including future non-medical costs: 49,296 EUR/QALY). Sensitivity analyses indicated some uncertainty in the model results. In some scenarios R-LEN exceed an ICER of 50,000 EUR/QALY.Conclusion: R-LEN was cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of 50,000 EUR/QALY in the base-case analyses. Scenario and sensitivity analyses indicated some level of uncertainty regarding this conclusion, depending on the chosen WTP-threshold and perspective.
Association of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism LEP-R 668 A/G (Gln223Arg, rs1137101) of Leptin Receptor Gene with Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Bieńkiewicz Jan , Romanowicz Hanna , Wilczyński Miłosz , Jabłoński Grzegorz , Stepowicz Anna , Obłękowska Anna , Malinowski Andrzej , Smolarz Beata
Published: December 2020

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to analyze the frequencies of genotypes and alleles of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) LEP-R 668 A/G (Gln223Arg, rs1137101) of leptin receptor gene and to assess the influence this DNA marker has on endometrial cancer (EC) with respect to total body fat content.MethodsThe study comprised 120 patients treated for endometrial cancer and 90 female controls treated for uterine fibroids. In total, 210 patients were included in this research. DNA was isolated from archival post-operative specimens. Polymerase Chain Reaction – Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism was employed to analyze the SNP.ResultsIn this paper we have demonstrated that heterozygous genotype AG of SNP LEP-R 668 A/G (Gln223Arg, rs1137101) is statistically less frequent in women with endometrial cancer (EC) than in controls: 33 versus 57%, respectively. Similarly, this heterozygous genotype is statistically significantly less frequent in obese (BMI>30) women with EC than in lean controls (BMI<25): 30 versus 63%, respectively.ConclusionsAG polymorphic variant of SNP LEP-R 668 A/G (Gln223Arg, rs1137101) in LEP-R may be considered a protective factor in the development of endometrial cancer.
Plasma and Cerebrospinal Fluid Inflammation and the Blood Brain Barrier in Older Surgical Patients: The Role of Inflammation after Surgery for Elders Study
Authors: Vasunilashorn Sarinnapha , Ngo Long H. , Dillon Simon T. , Fong Tamara G , Carlyle Becky C , Kivisakk Pia , Trombetta Bianca A , Vlassakov Kamen V , Kunze Lisa J , Arnold Steven E , Xie Zhongcong , Inouye Sharon K , Libermann Towia A , Marcantonio Edward R
Published: December 2020

Background

Our understanding of the relationship between plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) remains limited, which poses an obstacle to the identification of blood-based markers of neuroinflammatory disorders. To better understand the relationship between peripheral and central nervous system (CNS) markers of inflammation before and after surgery, we aimed to: examine whether surgery compromises the blood-brain barrier (BBB), evaluate postoperative changes in inflammatory markers, and assess the correlations between plasma and CSF levels of inflammation.
Methods

We examined the Role of Inflammation after Surgery for Elders (RISE) study of adults aged ≥ 65 who underwent elective hip or knee surgery under spinal anesthesia who had plasma and CSF samples collected at baseline and postoperative 1 month (PO1MO) (n = 29). Plasma and CSF levels of three inflammatory markers previously identified as increasing after surgery were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay: interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and chitinase 3-like protein (also known as YKL-40). Integrity of the BBB was computed as the ratio of CSF/plasma albumin levels (Qalb). Mean Qalb and levels of inflammation were compared between baseline and PO1MO. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to determine correlation between biofluids. For the plasma-CSF biofluids with significant correlations, we determined whether the markers were associated by using linear regression models.
Results

Mean Qalb did not change between baseline and PO1MO. Plasma and CSF levels of IL-6, CRP, and YKL-40 were higher on PO1MO relative to baseline, with a disproportionally higher increase in CSF levels relative to plasma levels (IL-6 doubled and CRP tripled in CSF). Significant plasma-CSF correlations for CRP (baseline r = 0.70 and PO1MO r = 0.89, p < .01 for both) and IL-6 (PO1MO r = 0.48, p < .01) were observed, with higher correlations on PO1MO compared with baseline.
Conclusions

In this elective surgical sample of older adults, BBB integrity was similar between baseline and PO1MO, inflammation levels were higher PO1MO than baseline, and plasma-CSF correlations were observed for CRP and IL-6. Our identification of potential promising plasma markers of inflammation in the CNS may facilitate the early identification of patients at greatest risk for neuroinflammation and its associated adverse cognitive outcomes.
The Reconsitution of the Weld Pool Surface in Stationary TIG Welding Process With Filler Wire
Authors: Huang Jiankang , Guangyin LIU , Jing HE , Shurong YU , Shien LIU , Huizi CHEN , Wei PAN , Ding FAN
Published: December 2020

In order to study the dynamic characteristics of the weld pool surface during the TIG welding process of the filler wire, an observation test platform for the study of the three-dimensional surface behavior evolution of the TIG weld pool based on the grid structure laser was used to observe the weld pool surface and obtain the reflection grid laser image. The three-dimensional surface evolution of the fixed-point TIG welding pool is accurately restored by the three-dimensional recovery algorithm of the weld pool surface, so as to obtain the three-dimensional surface morphology of the weld pool. The difference between the obtained weld pool height and the experimental results is very small, and the results are basically the same.
EML4-ALK-mediated Activation of the JAK2-STAT Pathway is Critical for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Transformation
Authors: Li Ying , Li Yongwen , Zhang Hongbing , Shi Ruifeng , Zhang Zihe , Liu Hongyu , Chen Jun
Published: December 2020

Background: The echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like-4 anaplastic lymphoma kinase (EML4-ALK) fusion gene was identified in a small subset of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, who responded positively to ALK inhibitors. The aim of this study was to characterize the mechanism of NSCLC transformation by EML4-ALK.Methods: HEK293 and NIH3T3 cells were transfected with EML4-ALK-V3 or pcDNA3.1-NC, and H2228 cells were transfected with siRNA-EML4-ALK or siRNA-NC. Cell viability and proliferation were measured by CCK-8 and EDU methods, respectively. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Gene expression profiles were generated from a signal pathway screen of EML4-ALK-regulated lung cancer cell transformation and verified by qPCR and western blotting. The interaction and colocalization of JAK2-STAT pathway components and EML4-ALK were determined by co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and immunohistochemistry/ immunofluorescence, respectively. Results: Several genes involved in the JAK2-STAT pathway were identified by Microarray.JAK2 and STAT6 were constitutively phosphorylated in H2228 cells, which was downregulated by EML4-ALK silencing. Ectopic expression of EML4-ALK in HEK293 and NIH3T3 cells resulted in activating of JAK2 and STAT1, STAT3, STAT5, and STAT6. In EML4-ALK-transfected HEK293 and EML4-ALK-positive H2228 cells, activated STAT6 and JAK2 colocalized with ALK.STAT3 and STAT6 were found to be phosphorylated and translocated to the nucleus of H2228 cells following IL4 or IL6 treatment. Apoptosis increased and cell proliferation and DNA replication decreased in H2228 cells following EML4-ALK knockdown. In contrast, HEK293 cell viability increased following EML4-ALK over-expression, while H2228 cells viability significantly decreased after treatment with ALK or JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors.Conclusions: Taken together, our data suggest that aberrant expression of EML4-ALK leads to JAK2-STAT signaling pathway activation, an essential part of the development of non-small cell lung cancer.
Reinforcing Adherence to Lipid-lowering Therapy after an Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zafeiropoulos Stefanos , Farmakis Ioannis , Giannakoulas George , Kartas Anastasios
Published: December 2020

Aims: Achieving the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal following an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a milestone often missed due to suboptimal adherence to secondary prevention treatments. Whether improved adherence could result in reduced LDL-C levels is unclear. We aimed to evaluate an educational-motivational intervention to increase long-term lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) adherence and LDL-C goal attainment rate among post-ACS patients.Methods: IDEAL-LDL was a parallel, two-arm, single-center, pragmatic, investigator-initiated randomized controlled trial. Hospitalized patients for ACS were randomized to a physician-led integrated intervention consisting of an educational session at baseline, followed by regular motivational interviewing phone sessions or usual care. Co-primary outcomes were the LLT adherence (measured by Proportion of Days Covered (PDC); good adherence defined as PDC>80%), and LDL-C goal (<70 mg/dl or 50% reduction from baseline) achievement rate at one year.Results: In total, 360 patients (mean age 62 years, 81% male) were randomized. Overall, good adherence was positively associated with LDL-C goal achievement rate at one year. Median PDC was higher in the intervention group than the control group [0.92 (IQR, 0.82–1.00) vs. 0.86 (0.62–0.98); p=0.03] while the intervention group had increased odds of good adherence (adjusted odds ratio: 1.76 (95% confidence interval 1.02 to 2.62; p=0.04). However, neither the rate of LDL-C goal achievement (49.6% in the intervention vs. 44.9% in the control group; p=0.49) nor clinical outcomes differed significantly between the two groups.Conclusion: Α multifaceted intervention improved LLT adherence in post-ACS patients without a significant difference in LDL-C goal attainment. (IDEAL-LDL, ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02927808)
Reinforcing Adherence to Lipid-lowering Therapy after an Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zafeiropoulos Stefanos , Farmakis Ioannis , Kartas Anastasios , Arvanitaki Alexandra , Arvanitakis Konstantinos , Nevras Vasileios , Pagiantza Areti , Zanos Stavros , Giannakoulas George
Published: December 2020

Aims: Achieving the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal following an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a milestone often missed due to suboptimal adherence to secondary prevention treatments. Whether improved adherence could result in reduced LDL-C levels is unclear. We aimed to evaluate an educational-motivational intervention to increase long-term lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) adherence and LDL-C goal attainment rate among post-ACS patients.Methods: IDEAL-LDL was a parallel, two-arm, single-center, pragmatic, investigator-initiated randomized controlled trial. Hospitalized patients for ACS were randomized to a physician-led integrated intervention consisting of an educational session at baseline, followed by regular motivational interviewing phone sessions or usual care. Co-primary outcomes were the LLT adherence (measured by Proportion of Days Covered (PDC); good adherence defined as PDC>80%), and LDL-C goal (<70 mg/dl or 50% reduction from baseline) achievement rate at one year.Results: In total, 360 patients (mean age 62 years, 81% male) were randomized. Overall, good adherence was positively associated with LDL-C goal achievement rate at one year. Median PDC was higher in the intervention group than the control group [0.92 (IQR, 0.82–1.00) vs. 0.86 (0.62–0.98); p=0.03] while the intervention group had increased odds of good adherence (adjusted odds ratio: 1.76 (95% confidence interval 1.02 to 2.62; p=0.04). However, neither the rate of LDL-C goal achievement (49.6% in the intervention vs. 44.9% in the control group; p=0.49) nor clinical outcomes differed significantly between the two groups.Conclusion: Α multifaceted intervention improved LLT adherence in post-ACS patients without a significant difference in LDL-C goal attainment. (IDEAL-LDL, ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02927808)
Death by SARS-CoV 2 - a Romanian COVID-19 multi-centre comorbidity study
Authors: Stoian Anca Pantea , Pricop-Jeckstadt Mihaela , Pana Adrian , Ileanu Bogdan-Vasile , Schitea Ruxandra , Geanta Marius , Catrinoiu Doina , Suceveanu Andra Iulia , Serafinceanu Cristian , Pituru Silviu , Poiana Catalina , Timar Bogdan , Nitipir Cornelia , Parvu Simona , Arsene Andreea , Mazilu Laura , Toma Antonela , Hainarosie Razvan , Ceriello Antonio , Rizzo Manfredi , Jinga Viorel
Published: December 2020

Evidence regarding the relation between SARS-CoV-2 mortality and the underlying medical condition is scarce. We conducted an observational, retrospective study based on Romanian official data about location, age, sex and comorbidities for COVID-19 fatalities. Our findings indicate that males, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and chronic kidney disease were most frequent in the COVID-19 fatalities, that the burden of disease was low, and that the prognosis for 1-year survival probability was high in the sample. Evidence shows that age-dependent pairs of comorbidities could be a negative prognosis factor for the severity of disease for the SARS-CoV 2 infection.
Risk factors for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver disease among the patients admitted to a Teaching Hospital in Sri Lanka: Case Control study
Authors: Nissanka Ayoma , Abeysena Chrishantha
Published: December 2020

Background: The burden of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) was rising globally. It is the disease condition where there is an increased fat deposition (≥5%) in the hepatic cells. The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors for NAFLD among the patients admitted to a Teaching Hospital in Sri Lanka.Methods: A case control study was conducted among the 106 cases with NAFLD and 212 unmatched hospital-based controls without having NAFLD. A case was defined based on the presence of fatty liver, according to the diagnostic ultrasonographic criteria. Three factors were used in diagnosing a patient with NAFLD. They include, increase echogenicity of the liver compared to kidney and spleen, obliteration of vascular architecture and deep attenuation of ultrasonic signals. Presence of at least two out of the above was considered as NAFLD. The data was collected by using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The risk factors were determined by performing a multiple logistic regression and the results were expressed as adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95 % confidence interval (95% CI).Results: Risk factors for NAFLD include consumption of fast food ≥2 time per week (AOR=9.34, 95% CI= 4.47-19.5), infrequent coffee consumption (AOR=2.78, 95% CI= 1.32-5.88), family history of liver disease (AOR=12.2, 95% CI= 2.16-67.9), methotrexate usage (AOR=32.0, 95% CI=1.45-tet707.3), inadequate physical activity (AOR=8.10, 95% CI= 4.04-16.3), having a high BMI value more ≥23Kg/m2 (AOR=6.17, 95% CI=2.93-13.0) and being a Sinhalese (AOR=12.7, 95% CI=2.03-79.3).Conclusion: Most of the risk factors were modifiable such as inadequate physical activity, overweight, infrequent coffee consumption and frequent consumption of fast-food. Primary preventive strategies for those modifiable risk factors should be implemented to prevent NAFLD.
L’affaire Ryniker et l’abolition des peines corporelles en droit suisse
Authors: Abbet Stéphane
Published: December 2020

La bastonnade infligée en 1865 par les tribunaux uranais au citoyen argovien Ryniker pour avoir distribué une brochure panthéiste connaît un etentissement dans toute la Suisse. L’affaire intervient dans un contexte de Kulturkampf et aboutira, après deux échecs, à l’interdiction des peines corporelles et des peines pour motifs religieux dans la constitution de 1874. La fustigation continuera cependant à être appliquée par certains cantons durant l’instruction pénale ou à titre de sanction disciplinaire en prison jusqu’au début du XXe siècle.