bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antenatal Care Visits of Child-Bearing Mothers Having a Child Five Years Preceding in the Survey and Associated Factors in Benchi-Sheko Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gelaw Assaye Belay , Andargie Solomon Abebaw , Terefe Abiyot Negsh
Published: February 2021

Background: Antenatal care (ANC) is the service given by the caregiver for pregnant women to make safe the health of both pregnant women and babies during the pregnancy period. The objective of the current study was to persuade high-quality public health service and plan the mothers and their households expressively and mentally for being motherhood by ever-increasing antenatal care visits from health institutions.Methods: Community-based cross-sectional study design was applied. Cross-sectional survey design mainly used for the collection of information on the Utilization of Antenatal Care Visit of Women During Pregnancy and its Related Factors in Bench-Sheko Zone, South Nation Nationalities Peoples of Region, Southwestern Ethiopia: Cross-sectional study. The study populations are all populations who are living in the study area, South Nation Nationalities peoples of Region, Southwestern Ethiopia.Results: Evidence tells us, one hundred twenty-nine (16.9%) of pregnant women were not visited by the caregiver during pregnancy. Around eighty-three percent of pregnant women were visited in health institutions at least once prior in the five years in the survey. The Poisson regression model was preferred to fit the data. As the output indicated in analysis, the odds ratio of women whose husband education status is illiterate is equal to exp(-0.272)=0.76(95% CI:-0.507,-0.038) (other variables are adjusted), it indicates that the women whose husband education status is 0.76 less likely to ANC visit than women whose husband education status is higher and above. Conclusions: The remark conclusion that the source of information, religion, educational status, birth order, knowledge of danger signs for pregnancy, and service satisfaction were significant at the alpha level of significance on the ANC visit of Women during pregnancy.
Lung Inflammation from Single and Repetitive Exposure to Glyphosate
Authors: Pandher Upkardeep Singh , Kirychuk Shelley , Schneberger David , Thompson Brooke , Aulakh Gurpreet , Sethi RS , Singh Baljit
Published: February 2021

Background: Glyphosate is an active ingredient in herbicides used in agriculture worldwide. Exposure to glyphosate has been associated with respiratory dysfunctions in agricultural workers. However, the ability of glyphosate to induce inflammation in the lung is not well studied. Therefore, we evaluated lung inflammatory response to glyphosate at agricultural relevant dose for single and repetitive exposures. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were intranasally exposed to glyphosate (1 μg/40 μl) for 1-day or once daily for 5-days, and 10-days. After the exposure periods, mice were euthanized to collect the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and lung tissue. Results: Repetitive exposure to glyphosate for 5-days and 10-days showed an increase of neutrophils in BAL fluid and eosinophil peroxidase levels in lungs, a marker for eosinophils. Leukocyte infiltration in lungs was further confirmed through lung histology. Th2 cytokines including IL-5 and IL-13 were increased in BAL fluid after 10-days of glyphosate exposure whereas IL-4 was not increased. Lung sections from all glyphosate groups showed higher expression for ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and vWF adhesion molecules. TLR-4 and TLR-2 expression was increased in lungs after repetitive exposure to glyphosate. Conclusions: We conclude that repetitive exposure to glyphosate induces migration of neutrophils and eosinophils and release of Th2 cytokines. This study, for the first time, provides evidence for the role of ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and vWF in lungs of glyphosate-treated animals.
Seasonal Variation and Sources of Carbonaceous Species and Elements in PM2.5 and PM10 Over the Eastern Himalaya
Authors: Sharma Sudhir Kumar , Mukherjee Sauryadeep , Choudhary Nikki , Rai Akansha , Ghosh Abhinandan , Chatterjee Abhijit , Vijayan Narayanswami , Mandal Tuhin Kumar
Published: February 2021

The study represents the seasonal characteristics (carbonaceous aerosols and elements) and contribution of prominent sources PM2.5 and PM10 in the high altitude of the eastern Himalaya (Darjeeling) during August 2018-July 2019. Carbonaceous aerosols [organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC) and water soluble organic carbon (WSOC)] and elements (Al, Fe, Ti, Cu, Zn, Mn, Cr, Ni, Mo, Cl, P, S, K, Zr, Pb, Na, Mg, Ca, and B) in PM2.5 and PM10 were analyzed to estimate their possible sources. The annual average concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 were computed as 37±12 µg m-3 and 58±18 µg m-3, respectively. In the present case, total carbonaceous species in PM2.5 and PM10 were accounted for 20.6% of PM2.5 and 18.6% of PM10, respectively. Whereas, trace elements in PM2.5 and PM10 were estimated as 15% of PM2.5 and 12% of PM10, respectively. Monthly are seasonal variations in concentrations of carbonaceous aerosols and elements in PM2.5 and PM10 were also observed during the observational period. The positive relationship between OC & EC and OC & WSOC of PM2.5 and PM10 during all the seasons (except monsoon in case of PM10) indicate rheir common sources. The enrichment factors (EFs) and significant positive correlation of Al with othe crustal elements (Fe, Ca, Mg and Ti) of fine and coarse mode aerosols indicates the influence of mineral dust at the Darjeeling. Principal component analysis (PCA) resolved the four common sources (biomass burning + fossil fuel combustion (BB+FFC), crustal/soil dust, vehicular emissions (VE) and industrial emissions (IE)) of PM2.5 and PM10 in Darjeeling.
Lipid profile of bovine grade-1 blastocysts produced either in vivo or in vitro before and after slow freezing process
Authors: Idrissi Sarah Janati , Bourhis Daniel Le , Lefevre Antoine , Emond Patrick , Berre Laurene Le , Desnoës Olivier , Joly Thierry , Buff Samuel , Maillard Virginie , Schibler Laurent , Salvetti Pascal , Elis Sebastien
Published: February 2021

Currently, in vitro embryo production (IVP) is successfully commercially applied in cattle. However, the high sensitivity of embryos to cryopreservation in comparison to in vivo (IVD) embryos slows the dissemination of this biotechnology. Reduced cryotolerance is frequently associated with lipid accumulation in the cytoplasm mainly due to in vitro culture conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the lipid composition of biopsied and sexed embryos, produced either in vivo or in vitro from the same Holstein heifers before and after a slow freezing protocol. Lipid extracts were analysed by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry, which enabled the detection of 496 features. Our results highlighted a lipid enrichment of IVP embryos in triglycerides and oxidised glycerophospholipids and a reduced abundance in glycerophospholipids. The slow freezing process affected the lipid profiles of IVP and IVD embryos similarly. Lysophosphatidylcholine content was reduced when embryos were frozen/thawed. In conclusion, the embryonic lipid profile is impacted by IVP and slow freezing protocols but not by sex. Lysophosphatidylcholine seemed highly sensitive to cryopreservation and might contribute to explain the lower quality of frozen embryos. Further studies are required to improve embryo freezability by modulating the lipidome.
A Field Trial of an Educational Intervention to Promote Safe Behaviors in Pedestrians: Study Protocol
Authors: Harofteh Fateme Zare , Hidarnia Alireza , Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali , Eslami Mohammad
Published: February 2021

Background: Pedestrians are vulnerable in traffic, and unsafe behaviors often lead to their injury. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a theory-based training package (TBTP) on improving pedestrians’ safe traffic behaviors.Methods: This study is a protocol for a field trial with parallel arms to examine the effect of educational intervention on 204 pedestrians that are selected using multi-stage cluster sampling. In order to prepare a training package, a sequential exploratory mixed study will be performed in 4 phases: 1) A questionnaire will be designed using a qualitative study and constructs of the theory of planned behavior (TPB). 2) A cross-sectional study will be performed to evaluate the psychometrics of the questionnaire and current situation, 3) The training package will be designed based on the previous phase findings, results of related studies, opinions of a panel of experts and effective techniques for behavior and belief change. 4) The effect of training will be measured using pre and posttest to comparing the mean scores of different theory constructs on pedestrians’ behavior between the intervention and control groups before and three months after the intervention. The between-group differences in terms of demographic variables, awareness, risk perception, beliefs, intention and behavior will be examined first. Paired t-test and ANCOVA will be applied to evaluate the effect of the intervention between the two groups.Discussion: The present research provides good information about pedestrians’ needs and evidence-based approach to promoting traffic culture, and reducing pedestrian injuries.Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials ≠ IRCT20180228038896N1
Experimental Study of Blasting Excavation for Large Cross-Section Tunnel in Horizontal Layered Rock Mass
Authors: Mei Jie , Zhang Wanzhi , Xu Bangshu , Zhu Yongxue , Wang Bingkun
Published: February 2021

The drilling and blasting method is still the main method in mountain tunnel excavation. For large cross-section tunnel in horizontal layered rock mass, tunnel blasting often causes serious overbreak and underbreak. In this study, blasting excavation tests of tunnel upper face were conducted and failure mechanisms of surrounding rocks with weak beddings and joints were analyzed based on the Panlongshan tunnel. Then, the blasthole pattern, the cut mode, a variety of peripheral holes, the charge structure and the maximum single-hole charge were optimized. Compared with the failure characteristics, overbreak and underbreak, and deformations of surrounding rocks before and after optimization, the latter was better in tunnel contour forming and surrounding rock stability. The results show that after optimization, the large-area separation of vault rock mass is solved, the step-like overbreak of spandrel rock mass is reduced and the large-size rock blocks and underbreak are avoided. The maximum linear overbreak of vault, spandrel, and haunch surrounding rocks is decreased by 42.3%, 53.7% and 45.1%, respectively. The underbreak at the bottom of the upper face is reduced from -111.5 to - 16.5 cm. The average overbreak area is decreased by 61.1%. In addition, the displacements after optimization finally converge to the smaller values. The arch crown settlement and the horizontal convergence of haunch are reduced by about 21.6% and 18.3%, respectively. Furthermore, from the completion of blasting excavation to the stabilization of surrounding rock, it takes less time by using the optimized blasting scheme.
Effects of NRF-1 and PGC-1α Cooperation on HIF-1α and Rat Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis Under Hypoxia
Authors: Niu Nan , Li Hui , Du Xiancai , Wang Chan , Li Junliang , Yang Jihui , Liu Cheng , Yang Songhao , Zhu Yazhou , Zhao Wei
Published: February 2021

Background: Hypoxia is a primary inducer of cardiomyocyte injury, its significant marker being hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF-1) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) are transcriptional regulatory elements implicated in multiple biological functions, including oxidative stress response. However, their roles in hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis remain unknown. The effect HIF-α, together with NRF-1, exerts on cardiomyocyte apoptosis also remains unclear. Methods: We established a myocardial hypoxia model and investigated the effects of these proteins on the proliferation and apoptosis of rat cardiomyocytes (H9C2) under hypoxia. Further, we examined the association between NRF-1 and HIF-1α to improve the current understanding of NRF-1 anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Results: The results show that NRF-1 and HIF-1α are important anti-apoptotic molecules in H9C2 cells under hypoxia, although their regulatory mechanisms differ. NRF-1 could bind to the promoter region of Hif1a and negatively regulate its expression. Additionally, HIF-1β exhibited competitive binding with NRF-1 and HIF-1α, demonstrating a synergism between NRF-1 and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1α. Conclusion: These results indicate that cardiomyocytes can regulate different molecular patterns to tolerate hypoxia, providing a novel methodological framework for studying cardiomyocyte apoptosis under hypoxia.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Nasal Liposome and Nanoparticle Based Rivastigmine Formulations in Acute and Chronic Models of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Rompicherla Sampath Kumar L , Arumugam Karthik , Bojja Sree Lalitha , Kumar Nitesh , Chamallamudi Mallikarjuna Rao
Published: February 2021

With the increasing ageing population and progressive nature of the disease, Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses to be an oncoming epidemic with limited therapeutic strategies. It is characterized by memory loss, behavioral instability, impaired cognitive function, predominantly, cognitive inability manifested due to the accumulation of β-amyloid, with malfunctioned cholinergic system. Rivastigmine, a reversible dual cholinesterase inhibitor is more tolerable and widely used choice of drug for AD. However, rivastigmine being hydrophilic and undergoing first pass metabolism, exhibits low CNS bioavailability. Nanoformulations including liposomes and PLGA nanoparticles can encapsulate hydrophilic drugs and deliver efficiently to brain. Besides, the nasal route is receiving considerable attention recently, due to its direct access to brain. Therefore, the present study attempts to evaluate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of nasal liposomal and PLGA nanoparticle formulations of rivastigmine in scopolamine induced amnesia model and validate the best formulation by employing pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) modelling. Nasal liposomal rivastigmine formulation showed the best pharmacokinetic features with rapid onset of action (Tmax=5 minutes), higher Cmax (1489.5 ± 620.71), enhanced systemic bioavailability (F=118.65 ± 23.54; AUC= 35921.75 ± 9559.46), increased half-life (30.92 ± 8.38 minutes), and reduced clearance rate (Kel (1/min) = 0.0224 ± 0.006) compared to oral rivastigmine (Tmax= 15 minutes; Cmax= 56.29 ± 27.05; F=4.39 ± 1.82; AUC=1663.79 ± 813.54; t1/2= 13.48 ± 5.79; Kel (1/min) =0.0514 ± 0.023). Further, the liposomal formulation significantly rescued the memory deficit induced by scopolamine superior to other formulations as assessed in Morris water maze and passive avoidance tasks. PK-PD modelling demonstrated strong correlation between the pharmacokinetic parameters and acetylcholinesterase inhibition of liposomal formulation.
The Weight Enumerator of GRM codes
Authors: Thakran Seema , Kumari Sonu
Published: February 2021

The distribution of weight enumerator gives the new idea to contract the information about the code for finding the error probability of a code. In this paper, we have extended the result of the weight enumerator of GRM codes [3]. The weight enumerator of GRM codes for order (m - 3) , m ³ 3,r ³ 0 has been developed and analyzed.
Genetic variants of TLR9 Gene and Chronic Kidney Disease Susceptibility
Authors: Kwak Jin Ho , Yu Gyeong Im , Park Woo Yeong , Paek Jin Hyuk , Kim Yaerim , Shin Dong Hoon , Jin Kyubok
Published: February 2021

Objectives Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common condition that can lead to renal dysfunction and is closely in relation to an increased cardiovascular risk and mortality risk. CKD is an important public health issue, and recent genetic studies have verified common CKD susceptibility variants. In this research, we examined the interrelationship between candidate genes polymorphisms of IFNL induction and signaling pathway and CKD. Methods 92 CKD patients and 330 healthy subjects as control were participated in this research. Replication set consisting 137 CKD with CGN patients and 446 controls was used for additional analysis. The genotype of SNPs was determined by the Axiom Genome-Wide Human Assay and SNaPshot assay. Results The SNPs of IFNL3 and IFNL2 were significantly associated with chronic kidney disease in the codominant (p = 0.015, p = 0.013, respectively). The SNP of IFNRA2 was significantly associated with chronic kidney disease in the codominant (p = 0.029). The SNP of TLR9 was significantly associated with chronic kidney disease in the codominant (p = 0.016), dominant (p = 0.047) and recessive (p = 0.049). The SNP of IL-22 was significantly associated with chronic kidney disease in the codominant (p = 0.049). No significant associations involving IFNL3, IFNL2 and IL22 were observed in the replication set whereas concerning the rs187084, in the TLR9 gene, a significant association was observed pooling the original and the replication sets. Conclusions This results shows a possibility that IFNL induction and signal pathway genes polymorphisms as a risk factor for CKD. Secondly, our results seem to TRL9 gene variant may be play a risk factor on CKD with CGN.
Cross-national Comparisons of Cognitive and Physical Health Across China, Japan, and Korea: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nam Sanghun , Pritchard Kevin T , Bae Suyeong , Hong Ickpyo
Published: February 2021

Background: Cross-national studies are an emerging research area in public health. Specifically, cross-national health comparisons are important for understanding the factors driving the success or failure of public health policies. Findings from cross-national studies can be used to improve the current health policies and practices in each country. Therefore, this study systematically analyzes studies that compared health status (physical health and cognition) using national panel data for three Northeast Asian countries—China, Japan, and South Korea. Methods: Google Scholar and PubMed were used for the literature search. The search strategy targeted papers published between 2005 and 2020, yielding a total of 205 studies, of which eight were selected for the review. Results: Two studies conducted cognitive comparisons, five undertook physical health comparisons, and one article demonstrated cross-national comparisons using national panel surveys. The cognitive comparison items were verbal memory, orientation, visuoconstruction, numeracy and numeric ability, and executive functioning. Health comparisons were conducted by measuring the proportion of the population with chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, arthritis, and having difficulty in activities of daily living. None of the eight studies utilized a common measure for cognitive and physical health status across the three countries. Conclusion: While survey items measured cognitive function and general physical health status in each country, there was no common measure for undertaking cognitive and physical health status comparisons across the three countries. A valid cross-national outcome measure is needed to accurately compare the population-level health status across the three countries.
One dimensional efficient photocatalyst based on plasmonic grating
Authors: Alisa Yaser , Hamidi S. M. , Shahnazi A. , Nabid M.
Published: February 2021

We can summarize the benefits of the water photocatalysis by two words: clean energy and purification of pollutants, and its problems as the large energy gap and electron-hole recombination. Scientists are still looking for a semiconductor whose energy gap lies in the visible region, with electron-hole pairs of longer life time. One of the proposed solutions in this field is combining the available semiconductors (such as TiO2) with a metal of plasmonic properties. The existing of the plasmonic metal will ensure that the visible portion of the solar region will involve in the photocatalysis action. It will be absorbed by the plasmonic metal, be transformed into a local energy that leads to excitation processes in the semiconductor. Also, the existing of the metal will guarantee a longer life time for the electron-gap pairs generated in the semiconductor, as the metal acts as a sink for the electrons generated in the semiconductor. In this paper, we created a unique photocatalyst based on one dimensional grating coated by gold thin film and covered by TiO2 cap layer. By examining the sample with visible radiation, we obtained a rate of sabotage of 25 percent within three hours.
Long-term Efficacy of GPi DBS for Cranio Facial Dystonia: a Retrospective Report of 13 Cases
Authors: Ren Haibo , Wen Rong , Wang Wei , Li Denghui , Wang Mengqi , Gao Yuan , Xu Yang , Wu Yang
Published: February 2021

Objective: This study evaluated the long-term efficacy of globus pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of Cranio Facial dystonia (Meige syndrome) and investigated the correlation between the volume of tissue activated (VTA) of the GPi and each subregion and movement score improvement.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 13 patients with drug-refractory Meige syndrome who were treated with GPi DBS. Pre- and postoperative Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) scores were compared. Relationships between preoperative baseline variables and improvement in the BFMDRS-Movement (BFMDRS-M) score were analyzed. LEAD-DBS software was used for three-dimensional reconstruction of the GPi and implanted electrodes. Correlations between the GPi-VTA and score improvement were analyzed.Results: The average follow-up period was 36.6±11.0 months (18-55 months). The improvements in the BFMDRS-M score were 58.2% and 54.6% at 3 months after stimulation and at the final follow-up visit, respectively, and the improvements in the BFMDRS-Disability (BFMDRS-D) score were 53.6% and 51.7%, respectively. At the final follow-up visit, the improvements in BFMDRS-M scores for the eye, mouth, and speech/swallowing were significant (P<0.001). Age was an independent predictor of improvement in the BFMDRS-M score after DBS (P=0.005). A decrease in the BFMDRS-M score had significant positive relationships with the GPi-VTA (r=0.757, P=0.003). Conclusions: GPi DBS is an effective method to treat drug-refractory Meige syndrome. LEAD-DBS software can be used as an effective aid for visualization programing after DBS.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Chronic Pain in the Chinese Community-dwelling Elderly: A Cross-sectional Study.
Authors: Li Xiahui , Zhu Wei , Li Jiping , Huang Chan , Yang Fan
Published: February 2021

Background: Chronic pain has adverse impacts on health and daily life in the elderly. Gaining insight into chronic pain that affects the Chinese community-dwelling elderly is important for pain management in China, which possesses the largest elderly population in the world.Methods: This was a cross-sectional design that followed the STROBE Guideline. A randomized cluster sampling method was used to recruit participants in the Sichuan Province from Dec 2018 to May 2019. Face-to-face interviews were performed in order to collect socio-demographic data, characteristics and health seeking behaviors of chronic pain through a self-designed questionnaire.Results: A total of 1,381 older adults participated in this study. Among these participants, 791 (57.3%) had chronic pain. Here, prevalence and pain intensity were both found to increase from the 60-69 group to the 70-79 group, which then decreased in the ≥80 group with no significant differences in sex (p>0.05). The most common pain locations were observed to be in the legs/feet (53.5%), head (23.6) and abdomen/pelvis (21.1%). Among the elderly suffering from chronic pain, only 29.4% sought medical help while 59.2% received medication and 59.7% adopted non-drug therapy.Conclusion: Chronic pain is a common health concern in the Chinese community-dwelling elderly, which possesses different characteristics compared to populations from other countries. In this regard, easier access to medication assistance and provision of scientific guidance for non-drug therapy may serve as satisfactory approaches in improving pain management.
Structural, Ferroelectric, Pyroelectric, and Dielectric Study of Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 Ceramics synthesized with Precursors Obtained by Sol-Gel Method doped with Lanthanum
Authors: Serralta-Macías1 José de Jesus , Calderón-Piñar Francisco de Paula , Zaldivar Osmany García , Olguin Daniel , limon jose martin yañez
Published: February 2021

In this work, the ferroelectric, pyroelectric and dielectric properties of La-doped bismuth sodium titanate ceramics (BNLT) using amounts from 0 to 6.7 at.% La were studied. The precursor powders used to make dense BNLT ceramics were obtained by the sol-gel method using the acetic acid route. All samples were calcined at 700°C for 1hr and sintered at 1150°C for 30 min in an encapsulated crucible to avoid Na and Bi volatilization, obtaining relative densities equal or higher than 94%. The obtained X-ray diffraction patterns typical of the perovskite structure, confirm the incorporation of lanthanum into the lattice, evolving from rhombohedral phase to a mixture of rhombohedral and cubic structure for higher concentrations. Thermogravimetry (TG) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) results indicate that the crystallization of precursors powders of BNT takes place between 500 and 700°C. Additionally, the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs reveal a decrement of grain size from 4.5 to 0.5 μm with increasing La content. The ferroelectric hysteresis curves show that the best ferroelectric properties were obtained for BNT 1.3% La, where the obtained values of remnant polarization and coercive field were Pr=29 μC/cm2 and Ec=39 kV/cm respectively. Also, at this concentration, the pyroelectric response shows the higher value, 4 times the pyroelectric signal of the pure BNT.
Fully-Automated SPE Coupled to UPLC-MS/MS Method for Simultaneous Detection of Trace Sulfonamides, Quinolones, and Macrolide antibiotics in Water
Authors: Zheng Ming , Tang Suwen , Bao Yangyang , Daniels Kevin D , How Zuo Tong , El-Din Mohamed Gamal , Tang Liang
Published: February 2021

A fully automated solid-phase extraction (SPE) coupled ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method was developed for analysis of antibiotics (sulfonamides, quinolones, and macrolide) in water matrices. Sample preparation optimization included the selection of the best SPE material and configuration (HLB disks), sample volume (500−1000 mL water sample (pH = 3)) with a flow rate at 1−2 mL min− 1, and an elution procedure with 2 ⋅ 6 mL methanol, 2 ⋅ 6 mL acetone-methanol (V/V = 1/1). Meanwhile, the parameters for UPLC-MS/S detection of each analyte was optimized, including LC retention time, and MS parameters. The instrumental limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) of analytes ranged from 0.01−0.72 µg L− 1 and 0.05−2.39 µg L− 1, respectively, with good linear correlation (R2 > 0.995) and precision (< 9.9%). Matrix spike recoveries ranged between 63.3−99.2% in pure water, 60.8−91.3% in surface water (SW), and 59.9−102.8% in wastewater effluent (WWE) with relative standard deviations (RSD) below 11%. The matrix effects (MEs) observed for most of the analytes were ion suppression (0−25.8%) except for four compounds that had enhancement (0−8.0 %) in SW or WWE. This method can basically meet the needs of trace antibiotic residues detection in waters. Trace levels of sulfonamides, quinolones and macrolides using the developed antibiotic method were below LOQ (BQL) −94.47 ng L− 1 in WWEs and BQL−15.47 ng L− 1 in SW in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River Basin.
The C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio as a New Predictor for Bacterial Culture in Patients with Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis.
Authors: lu zhenfeng , guo jingsheng , song lin , ni haibin , zhang aiping , hong zujian , zhang xiaozhen
Published: February 2021

Background: Severe sepsis and septic shock with a high mortality rate are common critical illnesses in the emergency department. Early detection and intervention are a key to improve patient outcomes. The CAR is a fresh inflammation-based prognostic score and widely used in clinics. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between CAR and blood culture. Methods: 331 adult subjects admitted to the Emergency Intensive care unit via the emergency department from December 1, 2018 to June 30, 2020 were included in this analysis. The study population was divided into positive group and negative group according to the results of blood culture, ROC curves was used to assess the diagnostic performance of CAR, PCT and other risk factors for predicting blood culture, and Youden’s index derived cut-offs were calculated. Results: The patients were subdivided into the positive group and the negative group, 72 cases and 259 cases, respectively. The university analysis indicated that admission PCT, review of PCT, CAR, hepatobiliary system infection, urinary tract infection (relative to lung infection) was significantly corelated with the risk of bloodstream infection. Albumin was negatively correlated with the risk of bloodstream infection. A prediction value of CAR>5 was a significant marker in predicting bloodstream infection (sensitivity:50%; specificity: 71.43%; PPV32.73%; NPV83.71%; P<0.001). Admission PCT and reviewed PCT exhibited greater predictive significance compared with CRP or CAR. At a cut-off of 3.98 ng/ml, reviewed PCT offered the best accuracy in predicting bloodstream infection with the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 84.72%,54.83%, 34.08% and 92.76%; There was no difference in hospital stay and 28-day mortality between the two groups.Conclusion: A higher CAR is associated with increased incidence of bloodstream infection in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.
Male Adolescents with Contralateral Blebs Undergoing Surgery for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax May Benefit from Simultaneous Contralateral Blebectomy
Authors: Kao Chieh-Ni , Chou Shah-Hwa , Tsai Ming-Ju , Chang Po-Chih , Liu Yu-Wei
Published: February 2021

Background: In adults with primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP), contralateral recurrence occurs in about 25-28% when there are asymptomatic blebs. How to treat contralateral recurrence of PSP in pediatric populations remains controversial. This study evaluated the outcomes of excising contralateral blebs to prevent recurrence in adolescents being operated on for PSP under the same anesthesia. Methods: One hundred thirty-two male PSP patients under age 19 were surgically treated in a single institution between January 2008 and December 2016. Thoracoscopic blebectomies with pleurodesis were performed in all patients. For the purpose of this study, the patients were categorized into those with contralateral blebs receiving one-stage bilateral surgeries (32 patients), those with contralateral blebs only receiving unilateral surgery (40 patients), and those without contralateral blebs only receiving unilateral surgery (60 patients). Perioperative details and postoperative outcomes were retrospectively analyzed.Results: Significant differences in contralateral recurrence were found among the three groups (0%, 30%, and 1%, respectively; P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that being under 16.5 years old was a risk factor for overall recurrence (hazard ratio [HR]=2.81, P =0.034). Moreover, patients had contralateral blebs who only received unilateral surgery were at greater risk of overall recurrence (HR=6.06, P =0.004). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that contralateral and overall recurrence-free survival differed among the three groups (P<0.0001, P =0.0002). Conclusions: Although younger male PSP adolescents treated with surgery were more likely to have postoperative recurrences, the performance of simultaneous contralateral blebectomy in those receiving one-stage bilateral surgeries significantly reduced future contralateral recurrence without compromising patient safety.
Expression analysis of 19 bZIP genes in Tartary buckwheat and it’s response to abscisic acid (ABA)
Authors: xiao shuya , Liu Yaodong , Wang Anhu , Liu Yu , Li Xiaoyi , Liu Zhibin , Li xufeng , Yang Yi , Wang Jianmei
Published: February 2021

Tartary buckwheat is a kind of plant which can be used as medicine as well as edible. ABA signaling is important for plants to respond to drought. In this study, the germination, root length, stoma, and anthocyanin accumulation of Tartary buckwheat were all significantly affected by ABA. In ABA signaling, the bZIP gene family is a critical member of the ABA signaling pathway in plants, which plays an important role in plants response to drought. Through the analysis of the origin relationship between the bZIP family and related species, found that 19 bZIP genes in Tartary buckwheat were relatively conservative, which laid a foundation for the further study of the bZIP family. qRT-PCR showed that most of the group members were induced by ABA stress, including different times or concentration of ABA. In addition, the expression patterns of FtbZIPs in plant organs were different, indicating that they may have different functions in Tartary buckwheat responding to drought. In a word, this study will be helpful to further analyze and provide clues to improve the genetic breeding of Tartary buckwheat for drought resistance and its economic value.
APOL1 risk variants and kidney transplantation: a protocol for systematic review andmeta-analysis
Authors: Alao Michael Abel , Raji Yemi Raheem , Asinobi Adanze Onyenunachi , Akinboro Adeolu Oladayo , Ngene Samuel Osobuchi , Olayinka Ibrahim Rasheed , Okoye Prof Ifeoma , Nna Emmanuel
Published: February 2021

BackgroundGraft survival post-kidney transplant may be influenced by APOL1 risk variant status of both donors and recipients. There are several conflicting reports on screening, eligibility and inclusion of APOL1 risk variant testing in the Kidney Donor Risk Index. We aimed to produce a protocol for synthesizing evidence from available data on Apoprotein L1 risk variants and kidney transplantation.METHODS:We developed a search strategy using MeSH, text words and entry terms. Nine databases will be searched: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, AJOL, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Research gate and Scopus. Only observational studies retrievable in the English Language will be included. The primary measurable outcome is the recipient’s post-transplant graft survival time from APOL1 high-risk variant donors. The secondary outcomes are the proportion of APOL1 high-risk variants in End-Stage Kidney Disease requiring a kidney transplant, the proportion in graft recipients and kidney donors; the effect of APOL1 high-risk variant on donor's kidney function post-kidney donation, recipient kidney allograft survival in APOL1 low and high-risk recipients. Deduplication, screening, and selection of identified studies will be done using Covidence software while CMA software version 3 will be used for meta-analysis. All studies will be assessed for methodological, clinical, and statistical heterogeneity. Publication bias will be visually assessed using the funnel plot. Results will be presented in forest plots with pooled survival time, standard error, and variance. Subgroup analysis will be performed using moderators such as socio-demographics: race, age, gender, and socio-economic status; hypertension, HIV status, forms of rejection, and other environmental factors.Discussion: The effect size for the primary outcome is a standardized mean difference in survival time for APOL1 high-risk variants in kidney transplants. The changes in kidney functions of donors and recipients pre and post-transplantation would be examined. The suitability of donors who have APOL1 high-risk variants will be explored in relation to graft survival time, donors' kidney function, and moderating effects of socio-demographic and environmental determinants.Trial Registration Number: This protocol is registered in PROSPERO, with registration number CRD42021230358
Complete genome sequence analysis of a novel bunyavirus isolated from Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis
Authors: Chen Zeli , Anane Rex Frimpong , Wang Zhe , Gao Like , Chen Lu , Li Shangyun , Wen Guosong , Zhao Mingfu
Published: February 2021

A novel negative-stranded (ns) RNA virus tentatively named “Yunnan manyleaf paris rhizome negative-stranded virus 1” (YMPrNSV1), was isolated from a Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis plant exhibiting leaf chlorosis and mosaic symptoms in Yunnan. Its complete genome sequence was determined using Illumina and Sanger sequencing. The genomes composed of three RNA segments (L, M and S) with each one containing a single open reading frame. Based on sequence identity and the presence of typical bunya-like domains/motifs, the proteins encoded by YMPrNSV1 were predicted to be: RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), putative movement protein (MP), and nucleocapsid protein (NP). Sequence comparison analyses showed that the RdRp, MP and NP of YMPrNSV1 are highly similar to those of watermelon crinkle leaf-associated virus 2 (WCLaV-2), with 69.1%, 50.4% and 60.9% amino acid sequence identities respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on deduced amino acid sequences of RdRp and NP suggested that YMPrNSV1 clustered with coguviruses in a clade, and that WCLaV-2 is the known closely related species to YMPrNSV1. Base on the above results, YMPrNSV1 should be regarded as a new member of genera Coguvirus, within the family Phenuiviridae.
In Situ Reduced MXene/AuNPs Composite Toward Enhanced Charging/discharging and Specific Capacitance
Authors: Zheng Zixiang , Wu Wei , Yang Tao , Wang Enhui , Du Zhentao , Hou Xinmei , Liang Tongxiang , Wang Hailong
Published: February 2021

In this work, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) decorated Ti3C2Tx nanosheets (MXene/AuNPs composite) are fabricated through a self-reduction reaction of Ti3C2Tx nanosheets with HAuCl4 aqueous solution. The obtained composite is characterized as AuNPs with the diameter of about 20 nm uniformly disperse on Ti3C2Tx nanosheets without aggregation. The composite (MXene decorated on 4.8 wt.% AuNPs) is further employed to construct supercapacitor for the first time with a higher specific capacitance of 278 F g-1 at 5 mV s-1 than that of pure Ti3C2Tx and 95% of cyclic stability after 10000 cycles. Furthermore, MXene/AuNPs composite symmetric supercapacitor with filter paper as separator and H2SO4 as electrolyte, respectively, is assembled. The supercapacitor exhibits a high volumetric energy density of 8.82 Wh L-1 at a power density of 264.6 W L-1 and ultrafast-charging/discharging performance. It exhibits as a promising candidate applied in integrated and flexible supercapacitors.
Antiarrhythmic Properties of Phenytoin
Authors: Mahmoodi Ehsan , Brienesse Stephen , Boyle Andrew , Laver Derek , Jackson Nicholas
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND: Phenytoin has long been used to treat epilepsy and for some time as an antiarrhythmic drug (AAD). It is known that the diastolic calcium leakage through dysfunctional cardiac ryanodine receptors (RyR2) is a mechanism for arrhythmias in heart failure. Recent evidence suggests that phenytoin inhibits dysfunctional RyR2, reduces the calcium leak during diastole in heart failure, and may improve cardiac systolic function. This indicates the potential for repurposing phenytoin as an AAD in patients with heart failure.METHODS: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases was performed in March 2019. The search was limited to the studies published in the English language from 1946 to 2019. Studies on the antiarrhythmic effects of phenytoin in adults compared to no treatment or other AADs were included. Studies were excluded if there was insufficient clinical data regarding antiarrhythmic effects, dosing and administration of phenytoin and other ADDs. Conference abstracts, editorials, case studies and review articles were also excluded. RESULTS: A total of 157 non-duplicate titles were screened, and 25 articles underwent full-text review. 13 studies met the inclusion criteria, representing a total of 985 patients. Phenytoin was found to be effective in treating arrhythmias associated with digitalis toxicity, and in suppressing premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). In a recent animal study, phenytoin inhibited diastolic calcium leak through dysfunctional RyR2 in failing sheep hearts and improved cardiac systolic function without affecting normal functional RyR2.CONCLUSION: Phenytoin has an acceptable safety profile when used as an AAD. It has some utility in treating digitalis-induced arrhythmias and suppressing PVCs, however, further study is needed to determine its efficacy as an antiarrhythmic in heart failure patients given new evidence of its RyR2 stabilising properties.TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO database (CRD42019129125).
Primary Effusion Lymphoma Occurring in the Setting of Transplanted Patients: A Systematic Review of a Rare, Life-Threatening Post-Transplantation Occurrence
Authors: Zanelli Magda , Sanguedolce Francesca , Zizzo Maurizio , Palicelli Andrea , Bassi Maria Chiara , Santandrea Giacomo , Martino Giovanni , Soriano Alessandra , Caprera Cecilia , Corsi Matteo , Ricci Stefano , Ricci Linda , Ascani Stefano
Published: February 2021

Background: Primary effusion lymphoma is a rare, aggressive large B-cell lymphoma strictly linked to infection by Human Herpes virus 8/Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpes virus. In its classic form, it is characterized by body cavities neoplastic effusions without detectable tumor masses. It often occurs in immunocompromised patients, such as HIV-positive individuals. Primary effusion lymphoma may affect HIV-negative elderly patients from Human Herpes virus 8 endemic regions. So far, rare cases have been reported in transplanted patients. The purpose of our systematic review is to improve our understanding of this type of aggressive lymphoma in the setting of transplantation, focusing on epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathological features, differential diagnosis, treatment and outcome. The role of assessing the viral serological status in donors and recipients is also discussed.Methods: Based on the PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a systematic search on PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE and Cochrane Library using the search terms “primary effusion lymphoma” and “post-transplant”. Results: Our search identified 13 cases of post-transplant primary effusion lymphoma, predominantly in solid organ transplant recipients (6 kidney, 3 heart, 2 liver and 1 intestine), with only one case after allogenic bone marrow transplantation. Long-term immunosuppression is important in post-transplant primary effusion lymphoma commonly developing several years after transplantation. Kaposi Sarcoma occurred in association with lymphoma in 4 cases of solid organ recipients. The lymphoma showed the classical presentation with body cavity effusions in absence of tumor masses in 10 cases; 2 cases presented as solid masses, lacking effusions and one case as effusions associated with multiple organ involvement. Primary effusion lymphoma occurring in the setting of transplantation was more often Epstein Barr-virus negative. The prognosis was poor. In addition to chemotherapy, reduction of immunosuppressive treatment, was generally attempted.Conclusions: Primary effusion lymphoma is a rare, but often fatal post-transplant complication. Its rarity and the difficulty in achieving the diagnosis may lead to miss this complication. Clinicians should suspect primary effusion lymphoma in transplanted patients, presenting generally with unexplained body cavity effusions, although rare cases with solid masses are described.
Health system delay in the treatment of tuberculosis patients in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tegegne Kenaw , Wagnew Fasil , Belay Yihalem Abebe , Eyayu Dawit , Bekele Daniel
Published: February 2021

Background: Delay in diagnosis and initiation of effective treatment associated with increase in morbidity, mortality and on-going person-to-person transmission in the community at large. In Ethiopia, several studies have been conducted regarding health system delay among tuberculosis patients. However, studies assessing the health system delay in treatment of tuberculosis patients in Ethiopia had inconsistent and inconclusive findings. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled median time of the health system delay in the treatment of tuberculosis and its determinants in Ethiopia. Methods: We systematically searched from different databases: Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Springer link databases for studies published from June 6, 1997 up to December 20, 2020. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale adapted for observational studies. Heterogeneity was evaluated using I squared statistic. We conducted a meta-analysis for the pooled median time of health system delay and its determinants using random-effects model in R version 4.0.3 software(for median estimation) and Stata version 14 (for metan). The pooled estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were presented using forest plots. Results: A total of 14 studies which comprising 6161 patients satisfying a priori set criteria were included. Our meta-analysis showed that, the estimated pooled median time of the health system delay was 15.29(95%CI: 9.94–20.64) days. In the subgroup analysis, studies conducted from 1997 to 2015 the pooled median health system delay was 21.63(95% CI: 14.38-28.88) days, whereas studies conducted after 2015 the pooled median time of 9.33(95% CI: 3.95-14.70) days. Living in rural area (pooled OR: 2.42, 95%CI: 1.16-5.02) was significantly associated with health system delay. Conclusions: In Ethiopia, patients are delayed more-than two weeks in the treatment of tuberculosis. Being from rural residence was more likely to lead prolonged health system delay. Implementing efforts by targeting rural residence may help to shorten the health system delay and important implications for the success of tuberculosis control.
LncRNA STK4 antisense RNA 1(STK4-AS1) affects the osteosarcoma cell cycle by regulating p53 protein
Authors: Yao Weitao , Hou Jingyu , Liu Guoqing , Wu Fangxing , Yan Qiang , Guo Liangyu , Wang Chuchu
Published: February 2021

Background: LncRNA STK4-AS1 has been identified as a potential biomarker associated with multiple cancers. We proposed that STK4-AS1 plays a role in the proliferation of osteosarcoma by regulating its cell cycle. Methods: We compared the expression of STK4-AS1 in osteosarcoma vs normal samples both in clinical tissues and cell lines. We overexpressed and knockdown STK4-AS1 in p53 expressing osteosarcoma cells U2OS and p53 muted expressing osteosarcoma cells MG63 and analyzed cell viability and cell cycle. We overexpressed p53 in STK4-AS1 knockdown cells to explore the association of STK4-AS1 and p53 in the cell cycle. Results: The STK4-AS1 expression was higher in osteosarcoma tissue than adjacent normal bone tissues and was higher in osteosarcoma cell lines (U2OS, MG63, and SAOS-2) than in osteoblast cell lines (hFOB and HOB). Knockdown of STK4-AS1 in U2OS decreased the cell viability, increased cells in the G0/G1 phase, decreased cells in the S and G2/M phase, decreased expression of cyclin A and B, increased p53 and p21, and had no effect on cyclin D and cyclin E, while overexpression did the opposes. MG63 cell viability was not affected by altered STK4-AS1 levels. P53 overexpression in STK4-AS1 knockdown cells recovered cell viability, p21, cyclin A, and cyclin B expression. Conclusion: LncRNA STK4-AS1 affected p53 expressing osteosarcoma cells U2OS cell viability through regulating cell cycle, which is mediated by p53/p21 pathway.