bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre- and Post-home Visit Behaviors using an after-hours House Call (AHHC) Medical Services: A Questionnaire-based Survey in Tokyo, Japan
Authors: INOKUCHI Ryota , MORITA Kojiro , JIN Xueying , ISHIKAWA Masatoshi , TAMIYA Nanako
Published: March 2021

Background: To reduce the burden caused by emergency department (ED) visits and ambulance use, after-hours house call (AHHC) medical services have been implemented. Examining the pre-and post-home visit behaviors of those who use AHHC medical services, stratified by age and illness severity, may help determine the populations these services should target effectively to reduce ED visits and ambulance use.Methods: This questionnaire-based study used data from anonymized medical records and internet-based questionnaires completed by patients who used AHHC medical services in Tokyo, Japan, between January 1 and December 31, 2019. The questionnaire consisted of two questions: what action would the patient have taken in the absence of AHHC services, and what action was taken within three days following the use of the AHHC services.Results: Of the 15,787 patients who used AHHC medical services during the study period, 2,128 completed the questionnaire (13.5% response rate). Individuals aged <15 years and 16–64 years were the most common users of AHHC services (≤15 years, 71.4%; 16–64 years, 26.8%). Before using the AHHC service, the majority of patients in each patient age group would have visited the ED if the AHHC service had not been available (≤15 years, 47.8%; 16–64 years, 42.8%; ≥65 years, 43.6%), and the proportion of patients originally planning to call an ambulance was higher among those in higher age groups (≤15 years, 1.1%; 16–64 years, 6.0%; ≥65 years, 20.5%). After using AHHC services, the majority of patients (68.1%) did not visit a hospital within three days, but the proportion of patients who visited an ED and called an ambulance within that time increased as their illness severity increased.Conclusions: Increasing AHHC medical services awareness among older adults and encouraging repeated use of AHHC services for patients with severe illnesses may help reduce ED visits and ambulance use.
Analysis of Viral Load Change in Case of HIV/AIDS Patients Under ART Follow-up in Arba Minch General Hospital
Authors: Erango Markos Abiso , Gergiso Kabtamu Tolosie , Hebo Sultan Hussen
Published: March 2021

Background: Monitoring human immunodeficiency virus plasma viral load over time is critical to identify virologic treatment failure in patients taking antiretroviral therapy. The aim of this study was to determine whether the overtime viral load changes depends on patient characteristic measured at baseline of human immunodeficiency virus patients at Arba Minch General Hospital.Methods: This prospective follow up study was conducted using data obtained from medical records, patient interviews, and laboratory workup for six months. The study was employed among 152 adult patients that were selected by systematic random sampling. Longitudinal data analysis that accounts for the correlated nature of the data handled through linear mixed effect models were used to fit the data set in this study.Result: The mean viral load declines over time for each of the adherence level groups. The estimates of linear (p = 0.0006) and quadratic visit time (p=0.0256) effects and the baseline characteristics sex, age, adherence level, and Isoniazid preventive therapy had significant effects on change of viral load of patients over time. Conclusion: In order to improve the status of the patient’s viral load over time, considering the patients’ differences in adherence to antiretroviral therapy, sex, age, and Isoniazid preventive therapy are important.
Irreversibility Analysis in Darcy-Forchheimer Flow of Nanofluid by a Stretched Surface
Authors: Hayat T , Kainat Zobia , Alsaedi A , Khan Sohail A.
Published: March 2021

The aim of this articles is to investigate the entropy optimization in unsteady MHD flow Darcy-Forchheimer nanofluids towards a stretchable sheet. The surface we tend to think about is porous and stretchy under acceleration. Flow occurs due to the stretching of the surface. Four distinct types of aqueous nanostructures are taken in this examination where copper oxide (CuO), copper (Cu), titanium dioxide (TiO2) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) are the nanoparticles. Irreversibility analysis are discussed through second law of thermodynamics. The expression of energy is mathematically designed and discussed according to heat generation / absorption, dissipation, thermal radiation, and joule heating. The nonlinear PDE (partial differential conditions) is first changed to ODE (normal differential conditions) through the use of appropriate similarity variables. Here we used the numerically embedded solution technique to develop a numerical result for the obtained nonlinear flow expression. Influence of various flow parameter velocity temperature distribution and entropy generation are discussed. Reduction occurs in velocity profile for larger porosity and magnetic parameters. An enhancement in entropy generation and temperature distribution is seen for Brinkman number. An opposite effect is noticed in velocity and temperature through solid volume friction.
Determinants of Utilization of Institutional Delivery Services in Zambia: An Analytical Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rashid Mamunur , Hiswåls Anne-Sofie , Chowdhury Mohammad Rocky Khan , Macassa Gloria
Published: March 2021

IntroductionInstitutional delivery at birth is an important indicator of improvements in maternal health, which remains one of the targets of sustainable development goals intended to reduce the maternal mortality ratio. Despite the importance of delivering at institutions with skilled attendants, approximately 15% of women prefer to give birth at home, according to the 2018 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey (ZDHS). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify determinants of utilization of institutional delivery in Zambia. MethodsA population based cross-sectional study design was used to examine 9841 women between 15 and 49 years of age from the 2018 ZDHS. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Logistic regression was applied to calculate crude odds ratio (OR), adjusted OR, 95% confidence interval (CI). The level of significance was set at p ≤ 0.05 for all analyses. ResultsThe proportions of institutional and home delivery were 93.6% and 6.2%, respectively, in urban areas. The corresponding figures were 80.2% and 19.8% in rural areas. Sociodemographic factors – woman’s (OR 1.76; 95% CI: 1.04–2.99) and husband’s secondary/higher education (OR 1.83; 95% CI: 1.09–3.05), higher wealth index (OR 2.31; 95% CI: 1.27–4.22) and rural place of residence (OR 0.55; 95% CI: 0.30–0.98) – were significantly associated with institutional delivery. Healthcare-related factors – 5-12 visits to antenatal care (ANC) (OR 2.33; 95% CI: 1.66–3.26), measuring blood pressure (OR 1.65; 95% CI: 1.02–2.66) and testing blood samples (OR 2.01; 95% CI: 1.04s–3.88) during pregnancy – were found to be significantly associated with institutional delivery. ConclusionsThe present study shows that sociodemographic factors such as women’s and husband’s secondary or higher education, higher wealth index, place of residence as well as healthcare-related factors such as 5-12 ANC visits, measuring blood pressure and testing blood samples during pregnancy were found to be significantly associated with institutional delivery. To improve institutional delivery and reduce maternal and newborn mortality, policymakers and public health planners should design an effective intervention program targeting these factors.
A Distributed Content-Based Video Retrieval System for Large Data-sets
Authors: SAOUDI ElMehdi , Andaloussi Said Jai
Published: March 2021

With the rapid growth of the volume of video data and the development of multimedia technologies, it has become necessary to have the ability to accurately and quickly browse and search through information stored in large multimedia databases. For this purpose, content-based video retrieval ( CBVR ) has become an active area of research over the last decade. In this paper, We propose a content-based video retrieval system providing similar videos from a large multimedia data-set based on a query video. The approach uses vector motion-based signatures to describe the visual content and uses machine learning techniques to extract key-frames for rapid browsing and efficient video indexing. We have implemented the proposed approach on both, single machine and real-time distributed cluster to evaluate the real-time performance aspect, especially when the number and size of videos are large. Experiments are performed using various benchmark action and activity recognition data-sets and the results reveal the effectiveness of the proposed method in both accuracy and processing time compared to state-of-the-art methods.
NAG-1/GDF15 Exerts Anti-diabetic Effects through the Insulin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lertpatipanpong Pattawika , Lee Jaehak , Eling Thomas , Oh Seung Yon , Seong Je Kyung , Baek Seung Joon
Published: March 2021

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-activated gene-1 (NAG-1) has a role in various diseases. Here, the anti-diabetic effects of NAG-1 were evaluated using a high-fat diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse model. NAG-1-overexpressing transgenic (NAG-1 Tg) mice exhibited lower bodyweight and fasting blood glucose and insulin levels than wildtype (WT) mice. The homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance scores of NAG-1 Tg mice were three times lower than those of WT mice. Hematoxylin and eosin staining demonstrated that NAG-1 Tg mice exhibited a smaller lipid droplet size in the adipose tissues, lower lipid accumulation in the hepatocytes, and larger beta cell area in the pancreas, compared to WT mice. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed downregulated expression of cleaved caspase-3, an apoptosis marker, in the beta cells of NAG-1 Tg mice. The adiponectin and leptin mRNA levels were upregulated and downregulated in NAG-1 Tg mice, respectively. Additionally, the IRS1/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, especially Foxo1, which regulates gluconeogenesis in the muscle and WAT, was downregulated in NAG-1 Tg mice. Furthermore, NAG-1 overexpression promoted As160 (AKT substrate of 160 kDa) expression in both muscles and adipocytes and the mRNA levels of the Nlrp3 pathway members were downregulated in NAG-1 Tg mice. Our findings suggest that NAG-1 expression alleviates diabetes in mice.
Clinical efficacy and immunity of a novel immune-modulatory peptide vaccine against IDO/PD-L1 (IO102/IO103) in combination with nivolumab in patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: Kjeldsen Julie , Lorentzen Cathrine , Martinenaite Evelina , Ellebaek Eva , Donia Marco , Holmstroem Rikke , Klausen Tobias , Hendel Helle , Ehrnrooth Eva , Zocca Mai-Britt , Pedersen Ayako , Andersen Mads , Svane Inge Marie
Published: March 2021

Anti-PD-1 (aPD1) therapy is an effective treatment for metastatic melanoma (MM); however, >50% of the patients progress due to resistance. Improved combination therapies enhancing aPD1 efficacy without leading to increased toxicity are needed. In this non-randomized phase I/II study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03047928), we treated 30 aPD1 naive MM patients with a novel immune-modulatory vaccine (IO102/IO103) activating indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) specific T-cells combined with nivolumab. The vaccine has a dual mechanism of action, targeting both immunosuppressive cells and tumour cells expressing IDO/PD-L1. The vaccine was administered every two weeks for the first 6 injections and every fourth week thereafter, for up to 15 vaccines. Nivolumab was administered every two weeks (3mg/kg) for a maximum of 2 years. The primary endpoint was safety and feasibility; the systemic toxicity profile was comparable to nivolumab monotherapy, except for local and transient reactions at the vaccination site. Secondary endpoints were clinical efficacy and immunogenicity. An ORR of 80% (CI: 62.7-90.5%) was reached, with the majority of 43% (CI: 27.4-60.8%) achieving a complete response. After a median follow-up of 22.9 months, the median PFS was 26 months (CI: 15.4-69). Vaccine-specific responses were detected in vitro in blood from >93% of the patients on vaccination, suggesting the induction of memory response up to 6 months after the last vaccine. Vaccine reactive T-cells comprised both CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells. Paired biopsies from five patients with matched longitudinal PBMCs showed T-cell influx at the tumour site of peripherally expanded T-cells in responding patients and general enrichment of IDO and PD-L1 clones after treatment. These unprecedented clinical efficacy data support further validation in a larger randomized trial, to confirm the clinical potential of this first-in-class immunomodulating vaccine.
Genetic Chinese Medicine Network Pharmacology Research, Quercetin Improves Drug Resistance in Acute Myeloid Leukemia by Targeting CXCL10
Authors: Linjun Hu , LU QILIANG , LIU YANG , ZHAO JUNJUN , ZENG ZHI , SHI ZHAN , TU YIFENG , XIAO ZUNQIANG , XU QIURAN , TONG XIANGMIN
Published: March 2021

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common acute leukemia in adults and is a highly heterogeneous and fatal disease. At present, the main method of treatment of AML is chemotherapy, but patients who relapse often develop resistance and are not sensitive to chemotherapy. Chinese medicine network pharmacology can provide new ideas about improving AML resistance.Methods: The gene expression data of relapsed drug-resistant AML and primary AML are from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Based on the network pharmacology of traditional Chinese medicine, the effective components and target genes of Jiedu Huayu Decoction were analyzed. we performed Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Gene Ontology (GO) analyses, Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and construction on overlapping genes. We will perform prognostic analysis and gene correlation analysis of overlapping genes in GEPIA. The binding energy between the differential gene and the active ingredient of the drug was studied by molecular docking.Results: We found that quercetin, the active ingredient in Jiedu Huayu Decoction, can target CXCL10, thereby improving AML resistance.Conclusions: In this study, we found that quercetin improves drug resistance in acute myeloid leukemia by targeting CXCL10 based on the GEO database and the network pharmacology study of Chinese medicine.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Rare Fungal Keratitis Caused by Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Huang Qing , Zhang Wenlu , Sun Yu , Li Xiaofeng , Zhang Xiaoyu , Lu Xiuhai , Qi Xiaolin
Published: March 2021

PurposeTo observe clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of fungal keratitis cause by Verticillium dahliae. MethodsClinical data of 7 patients diagnosed as fungal keratitis cause by V. dahliae were retrospectively analyzed. The clinical manifestations, mycology, in vitro antifungal susceptibility, treatment regimens and prognoses of the patients were evaluated. ResultsAll 7 patients were farm worker, of which 5 cases were caused by plant trauma. The corneal ulcer had a round shape and a relatively limited range with the diameters mainly in the range of 2-7 mm. The stromal infiltration was mild, and had no pseudopodia, mossiness or endothelial plaques. Intact hyphaes were detected in corneal scrapings and confocal microscopy, isolates were identified by morphology and by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA. In vitro antifungal susceptibility testing showed that the most sensitive antifungal drug was Amphotericin B. In the 6 patients with an ulcer less than 2/3 of the corneal thickness, the ulcer healed after 18 days of antifungal treatment only in one eye. The other five patients underwent corneal ulcer debridement or conjunctival flap covering surgery. The remaining one patient with ulcer depth more than 2/3 of the corneal thickness underwent lamellar keratoplasty. ConclusionFungal keratitis caused by V. dahliae has typical signs of a mild inflammatory response, and is not sensitive to antifungal drugs. It is recommended that patients undergo corneal ulcer debridement as soon as possible to promote rapid healing of the ulcers.
RNA methylation-mediated LINC01559 suppresses colorectal cancer progression by regulating the miR-106b-5p/PTEN axis
Authors: Shi Ke , Yang Shuaixi , Zhou Quanbo , Chen Chen , Shao Bo , Guo Yaxin , Wu Xiaoke , Zhao Luyang , Yang Xiuxiu , Zhang Qiuge , Wang Guixian , Yuan Weitang , Liu Jinbo , Sun Zhenqiang
Published: March 2021

BackgroundLong noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate multiple biological effects in cancers. Recently, RNA methylation has been found to modify not only coding RNAs but also some noncoding RNAs. How RNA methylation affects lncRNAs to affect colorectal cancer (CRC) progression remains elusive.MethodsRNA-sequencing of cancer and normal tissues was analysed. LINC01559 in CRC was selected and verified by western blot (WB), quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH). Functional experiments in vitro and in vivo were used to explore the biological functions of LINC01559 in CRC. The LINC01559/miR-106-5p/PTEN axis was explored at different levels of analysis, including fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), luciferase assays, and rescue experiments. RIP-sequencing, m6A RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) assays and bioinformatic analysis were conducted to determine the upstream mechanism of LINC01559.ResultsLINC01559, identified by RNA-sequencing analysis, was downregulated in CRC tissues and cell lines compared with normal controls. Lower expression of LINC01559 in CRC patients predicted a poor prognosis. In addition, PTEN was found to be positively correlated with LINC01559, and bioinformatic analysis and in vitro experiments indicated that miR-106b-5p could be the link between LINC01559 and PTEN. Then, downregulated LINC01559 restored the malignant phenotype of CRC cells in vivo and in vitro, while cotransfection of si-LINC01559 and miR-106b-5p inhibitor neutralized this effect. Notably, METTL3 was found to be highly expressed in CRC, and the downregulation of METTL3 could inhibit the migration and invasion of CRC cells. Mechanistically, we found abundant m6A modification sites on LINC01559. Then, we uncovered these sites as potential targets of METTL3 through experiments in vivo.ConclusionThe results revealed a negative functional regulation of LINC01559/miR-106b-5p/PTEN axis in CRC progression, and explored a new mechanism of METTL3-mediated m6A modification on LINC01559 formation. These results elucidate a novel potential therapeutic target for CRC treatment.Trial registrationThe human cancer tissues used in this study were approved by Ethnics Committee of The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University in December 19, 2019, and the TRN is 2019-KW-423.
Yaw stability control of automated guided vehicle under the condition of centroid variation
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhang Qingjie , Wan Yidong , Liu Ping , Yu Yue , Guo Jun
Published: March 2021

The centroid of an automated guided vehicle changes due to the irregular position and unbalanced weight of the merchandises on the load platform, which affects the completion of the handling task between stations in intelligent factories. This paper presents a hierarchical control strategy to improve yaw stability considering centroid variation. Firstly, the vehicle body and hub motor models are established based on dynamics. Secondly a hierarchical controller is designed by using the method of extension theory, model predictive control (MPC) and sliding mode control. Then based on CarSim and Simulink, the step co-simulation of the low-speed condition of the automated guided vehicle is carried out. Compared with the uncontrolled condition, the maximum deviation of the yaw rate is reduced from 0.58 rad/s to 0.52 rad/s, and the error with the theoretical value is reduced from 16% to 4%; the maximum deviation of the centroid sideslip angle is reduced from -0.84 rad to -0.77 rad, and the error with the theoretical value is reduced from 12% to 3%. Finally, a four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering automated guided vehicle is manufactured to carry out inter station steering experiments in simulated factory environment. The error between simulation and experiment is less than 5%. The results show that the designed controller is effective, and the research can provide theoretical and experimental basis for the low-speed steering control stability of automated guided vehicle.
Patients Acceptance and Comprehension to Written and Verbal Consent (PAC-VC)
Authors: Kashur Rabia , Ezekowitz Justin , Kimber Shane , Welsh Robert
Published: March 2021

Background:Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) research is challenging as it requires enrollment of acutely ill patients. Patients are generally in a suboptimal state for providing informed consent. Patients’ understanding to verbal assents have not been previously examined in AMI research. Patients Acceptance and Comprehension to Written and Verbal Consent (PAC-VC) compared patients’ understanding and attitudes to verbal and written consents in AMI RCTs.Methods: PAC-VC recruited patients from 3 AMI trials using both verbal N=12 and written N=6 consents. We compared patients’ understanding using two survey questionnaires. The first questionnaire used open-ended questions with multiple choice answers. The second questionnaire used a 5-point Likert scale to measure patients understanding and attitudes to the consent process. Overall answers average scores were categorized into three groups: Adequate understanding (71-100) %, Partial understanding (41-70)% and Inadequate understanding (0-40)%. Results:Responses showed patients with verbal assent had adequate understanding to most components of informed consent, close to those of written consent. Most patients did not read written information entirely and believed that it is not important to make a final decision. Patients favoured to have written information be part of the consent but not necessarily presented during the initial consent process. Patients felt less pressured in the verbal assent arm than those of written consent.Conclusion: Patients had adequate understanding to most components of verbal assent and comparable to those of written consent. Utilizing verbal assents in the acute care setting should be further assessed in larger trials.
Polymicrobial and Monomicrobial Necrotizing Fasciitis: Clinical, Laboratory, Radiology, Pathological Hallmark and Differences, a Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Naamany Eviatar , Shiber Shachaf , Daskin-Bitan Hadar , Yahav Dafna , Bishara Jihad , Sagy Iftach , Granat Nadav , Drescher Michael
Published: March 2021

Background: Necrotizing fasciitis(NF) is a life-threatening infection with high morbidity and mortality rates which should be diagnosed and treated with surgical and antibiotic therapy. Many studies have addressed NF and its subtypes, but few have reviewed the clinical, radiological and pathological differences between the poly-microbial and the mono-microbial groups. Objective: The objective of our study is to describe a relatively large cohort of patients with NF and study and compare the clinical, radiological and pathological differences between the poly-microbial(Pm) and the mono-microbial(Mm) groups.Methods: The charts of hospitalized patients with NF diagnosis from 2002-2019 at the Rabin Medical Center were reviewed. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at 90 days, secondary outcomes included duration of hospitalization, intensive care unit(ICU) admission, LRINEC score and the need for vasopressor use. Results: 81 patients with NF were included in the study, 54(66.6%) had Mm growth and 27(33.3%) had Pm growth. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the 90 days mortality, and moreover in hospital mortality was also insignificantly different. In a multivariate analysis, we found that 90 days mortality was more prevalent in the Mm group compared to Pm group. In addition, we found that in hospital mortality, ICU admission and vasopressors use were more frequent among the Mm-group compared to the Pm-group. Conclusions: our study is the first to compare the differences between the two most prevalent entities of NF. The results demonstrate better prognosis for Pm-NF, with minimal ICU stay, lower mortality, and lower use of vasopressors.
Plants used for grilling fish in two ethnic groups in Guizhou, Southwest China
Authors: He Jianwu , Lan Daoying , Zhang Ruifei , Bai Yu , Long Chunlin
Published: March 2021

Background

Dong and Miao, two major ethnic groups in Qiandongnan Prefecture of Guizhou Province, China, have practiced an ancient cooking technique, grilling fish or fish barbecue, to boost their spirits and enrich their spiritual life as well. Using a variety of edible plants and fish from the famous rice-fish agricultural ecosystem, they made the grilled fish as sacrificial objects and food for the festivities. The knowledge of plants used for grilling fish has not been studied.
Methods

Data were collected using direct observation, semi-structured interviews, individual discussions, key informant interviews and focus group discussions administered to 279 informants living in ethnic villages of Congjiang County between September 2017 and March 2019. The fish-grilling plant voucher specimens were collected in the field excursions. The data were analyzed using ethnobotanical descriptive statistics, fidelity level (FL), and the cultural important plants index (CII). In addition, a cultural important plants matrix design was used for comparative analysis of the plant cultural importance among two major ethnic groups.
Results

A total of 52 plant species in 21 families and 43 genera were recorded as edible plants for fish-grilling. The families Lamiaceae, Apiaceae and Lauraceae were more important sources among all plant groups. Herbaceous plants were the most species for fish-grilling, and leaves were the main part used. Wild edible plants were mainly collected for fish-grilling and a small number of species were from kitchen gardens, such as Coriandrum sativum, Luffa aegyptiaca and Lagenaria siceraria. Both Dong and Miao people had a high-fidelity level towards fish-grilling plants, which some given species received higher cultural important plants index in two groups. The integration of formal education and traditional culture in the local communities is conducive to the transmission of local knowledge. The traditional culture of the Dong and Miao’s fish-grilling was very commonly related. The cultural preference is not particularly strong. Only a few species represent the characteristics of each group. In addition, this traditional barbecue ceremony was related to the ancestor worship of local people.
Conclusion

The present study is the first systematic ethnobotanical survey of traditional fish grilling knowledge in Congjiang County, Guizhou Province, China, which shows close relationship between local residents and local plant resources. Results from this study will be helpful to protect agricultural cultural heritage of fish-grilling plants in southeast Guizhou, and provide a basis for the development of new food types.
Genome-resolved metagenomics suggests a mutualistic relationship between Mycoplasma and salmonid hosts
Authors: Rasmussen Jacob Agerbo , Villumsen Kasper Rømer , Duchêne David A. , Puetz Lara Christine , Delmont Tom O. , Sveier Harald , Præbel Kim , Jørgensen Louise von Gersdorff , Martin Michael D. , Gilbert M. Thomas P. , Bojesen Anders Miki , Kristiansen Karsten , Limborg Morten Tønsberg
Published: March 2021

Salmonids are important sources of protein for a large proportion of the human population. Interaction between the gut microbiota and host has been shown to affect the host phenotype in mammals, but relatively little is known about microbiota-host interaction in fish. Mycoplasma species are a major constituent of the gut microbiota of salmonids, often representing the majority of microbial cells. Despite the frequent reported dominance of intestinal Mycoplasma species, very little is known about their phylogenetic placement, functions and potential evolutionary relationships with their salmonid hosts.In this study, we utilise 2.9 billion metagenomic reads generated from 12 samples from three different salmonid host species to I) characterise and curate the first metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) of Mycoplasma dominating the intestines of three different salmonid species, II) establish the phylogeny of these salmonid candidate Mycoplasma species using known Mycoplasma genomes, III) perform a comprehensive pangenomic analysis of Mycoplasma, IV) decipher the putative functionalities of the salmonid MAGs and reveal specific functions expected to benefit the host.Our data provide a basis for future studies examining the composition and function of the salmonid microbiota, with a potential for being further exploited in order to increase animal health and growth in aquaculture.
Effect of domestication on phenotypic plasticity in chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Mill) I.M. Johnstone)
Authors: Munguía-Rosas Miguel A.
Published: March 2021

It is widely recognized that phenotypic plasticity may increase the survival of plants in environmentally variable habitats. However, the manner in which artificial selection affects the phenotypic plasticity of crops is poorly understood and there is no previous study in clonally propagated crops. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of domestication on phenotypic plasticity in leaf traits, growth rates and allocation patterns, under contrasting light environments, in the clonally propagated crop chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolious (Mill) I.M. Johnstone). Leaf area, leaf perimeter, leaf specific area, leaf production, trichome density, growth in height, growth in stem diameter and slenderness were measured in 97 clones belonging to 20 genotypes (10 wild and 10 domesticated). The clones were allocated to two contrasting light environments: fully exposed to sun vs. placement beneath a shade cloth. Reaction norms for each trait were compared between wild and domesticated clones. Results suggest that domestication and light environment had a non-additive effect on phenotypic plasticity in leaf production and slenderness. Reduced plasticity in these traits was observed in domesticated plants compared to that of their wild relatives. Leaf production and slenderness are associated with the shade avoidance syndrome, which is evident in wild plants but not manifested in domesticated plants. Reduced plasticity in leaf production also suggests yield stability, since the leaves form the edible part of chaya. I conclude that artificial selection reduces phenotypic plasticity in the yield of chaya and in its response to variation in the light environment.
Efficacy and Safety of Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy in Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ergun Yakup , Karacin Cengiz , Akagunduz Baran , Turker Sema , Acikgoz Yusuf , Dirikoc Merve , Esen Selin Akturk , Ucar Gokhan
Published: March 2021

Aim: In this meta-analysis; The efficacy and safety of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using immunotherapy in the neoadjuvant treatment of triple negative breast cancer were investigated.Material and Method: To determine the studies to be evaluated in this meta-analysis, PubMed, Cochrane Library databases, and the studies published/presented in ASCO, ESMO, and SABCS congresses were thoroughly searched. Studies published/presented until January 01, 2021, were included. PCR, by definition, was defined as the absence of invasive cancer cells in the breast and axillary lymph nodes (ypT0 / Tis and N0). If there were at least two studies that shared the same subgroup results, subgroup analyzes were also performed. This meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager, version 5.4 (RevMan), a proprietary software provided by Cochrane Collaboration.Results: A total of 5 RCTs were included in the study, and 1498 patients were analyzed. In a pooled analysis of these studies, pCR was 58.8% in the immunotherapy arm and 42.6% in the placebo arm. According to the random-effects model, OR was found to be 1.77 (95% CI 1.23-2.56). In the pooled analysis of 3 studies reporting results according to PD-L1 level, immunotherapy significantly increased pCR in the PD-L1 positive group (67% vs. 49%, OR: 1.99, 95% CI 1.47-269). In the PD-L1 negative group, although immunotherapy increased pCR numerically, it was not statistically significant (42% vs. 33%, OR: 1.44, 95% CI 0.97-2.14). According to the lymph node status, the results were shared in 2 studies. In the joint analysis of these two studies, pCR was significantly increased with immunotherapy in those with positive lymph nodes (63% vs. 39%, OR: 2.52 95% CI 1.69-3.77). In those with negative lymph nodes, although immunotherapy increased pCR numerically, the difference was not significant (62% vs. 54%, OR: 1.36 95% 0.94-1.97).Conclusion: The addition of immunotherapy to neoadjuvant chemotherapy increases pCR. This increase was especially pronounced in high-risk patients with lymph node-positive and in the group with positive for PD-L1.
Managing everyday life with chronic pain and interaction with healthcare: a qualitative study
Authors: Ranås Ebba , Dahlrot Amanda , Grimby-Ekman Anna , Ahlstrom Linda
Published: March 2021

Background: Chronic pain is a costly, widespread condition that often reduces the quality of life of individuals who suffer from it, for whom healthcare interaction is seldom efficient or free of problems. Outcomes of coping with chronic pain can depend upon patients’ approaches towards their pain, their defensive or offensive behaviours and their choices based upon their self-efficacy. Thus, even when their symptoms and diseases seem homogeneous, patients should be regarded as multidimensional individuals and their care plans should be individually tailored. The aim of our study was to examine how individuals with chronic pain manage their everyday lives and, from their perspectives, how primary care organisations should support them. Method: We conducted qualitative content analysis on the written narratives of 21 patients with chronic pain and held a focus group discussion with 15 of them. Results: The overarching theme in the patients’ narratives was that individuals with chronic pain develop adaptability in managing their everyday lives. Therein, the first sub-theme captures how such individuals use their bodies and souls to condition themselves and adapt to the people around them, take control of their everyday lives and find empowerment, whereas the second sub-theme captures how they interact with primary care organisations, their experiences with such interaction and the need to be treated with respect. Conclusions: For patients living with chronic pain, managing everyday life, the accompanying challenges and ongoing interactions with healthcare organisations requires developing adaptability. Although the individuals indeed bear great responsibility for their own health and wellbeing, healthcare personnel can ease that burden by adopting person-centred approaches in their care. However, to that end, healthcare personnel need more knowledge about supporting individuals living with chronic pain in order to ease their suffering.
The Effect of Cognitive Functional Therapy for Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Miki Takahiro , Kondo Yu , Kurakata Hiroshi , Buzasi Eva , Takebayashi Tsuneo , Takasaki Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

Background: To apply the Bio-Psych-Social (BPS) model into clinical practice, it is important not to focus on psychosocial domains only since biomedical factors can also contribute to chronic pain conditions. The cognitive functional therapy (CFT) is the management system based on the BPS model for chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP). Objectives: To compare CFT with the other interventions for CNSLBP regarding pain, disability/functional status, QoL and psychological factors.Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Method: Literature Search was conducted in electronic search engines. Enrolled participants included 1) CNSLBP and 2) primary, secondary, or tertiary care patients. CFT was the interventions included. Comparisons were any types of treatment.Results: Three studies met the eligibility criteria. The total number of participants was 336. For pain intensity, MD [95% CIs] was -2.78 [-2.78−0.02] and -1.01 [-1.92−-0.10] at intermediate and long term for two studies, respectively. About disability/functional status, SMD [95% CIs] was -0.76 [-1.46−-0.07]　at the intermediate for three studies and MD [95% CIs] was -0.84 [-11.47−-5.49] at long term for two studies. About fear of physical activity, MD [95% CIs] was -3.01 [-5.14−-0.88] and -3.56 [-6.43−-0.68] at intermediate and long term for two studies, respectively. No studies reported scores associated with QOL. All the quality of the evidence was very low. Conclusions: Three studies were included and the quality of all the evidence was very low. Although the study found statistically significant differences in some measures, the effectiveness of the CFT will need to be re-evaluated in the future.PROSPERO registration number CRD42020158182
Multivariate analysis of heavy metals content of beef from Soroti, Uganda
Authors: Kasozi Keneth Iceland , Otim Eric Oloya , Ekou Justine , Matama Kevin , Zirintunda Gerald , Ayikobua Emmanuel Tiyo , Tamale Andrew , Mujinya Regan , Baty Roua S. , Albrakati Ashraf , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Otim Ochan
Published: March 2021

Information about food hygiene and quality in the sub-Saharan African countries remains scarce at a time when many of their citizenry are beginning to acquire the much coveted middle income status. Compounding this are challenges linked to monitoring the safety of food produced by such lucrative industries as the beef industry on a continuous basis. The objective of the study was to begin some how the process of encouraging changes to the status quo and showing by example how a start in that direction might look like. Using heavy metal contents of representative beef samples from butcheries in Soroti, Uganda typical of a sub-Saharan country, we demonstrate how relationships and common sources of metals could be identified among samples in a multivariate space. Beef samples from 40 sites were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry for iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co) and cadmium (Cd). The study showed that all beef samples contained these metals, the extent of which were in the order: Fe > Zn > > Ni, Cr > Pb > Cu, Co > Cd. By correlation analysis, the pairs Ni and Cr, Cd and Co, Ni and Fe or Cr and Fe were most likely coming from the same sources. We also found that there are at least three distinct characteristics of beef consumed in Soroti, a distinction perhaps arising from three major categories of feedlots used to raise donor cattle. The incremental risk of children or adults developing cancer over a lifetime was estimated and found to fall into three categories, two of which are separately explained by the presence of Cr or Ni. The sources of these metals remain a matter of speculation on our part. More studies are needed to determine these sources and to understand the nature of cancer risk in the three categories of beef identified here.
‹Also natürlich wurde ich auch beleidigt›
Authors: Nickel Julia
Published: March 2021

Mit Blick auf das Medienhandeln Jugendlicher, das sich als digital, online und sozial beschreiben lässt, nimmt der Beitrag aus einer sozialisationstheoretischen Perspektive die Erfahrungen in den Blick, die Jugendliche im Kontext medienvermittelter (Online-)Kommunikation mit (wert-)verletzendem Handeln machen und versteht dabei ihr moralisches Denken, Fühlen und Handeln als Ausgangspunkt der Auseinandersetzung. Vor diesem Hintergrund wurde eine qualitative Befragung mit Jugendlichen im Alter von zwölf und 13 Jahren durchgeführt. Deutlich wird, dass die Jugendlichen das, was sie online sehen, lesen und (mit-)erleben, moralisch reflektieren bzw. beurteilen und sich dabei an gesellschaftlichen, freiheitlich-demokratischen Grundwerten und sozialen Normen orientieren. Erfahrungen mit Verletzungen dieser Werte und Normen und der Umgang damit gehören dabei für die befragten Jugendlichen gewissermassen zu ihrem Medienalltag dazu. Die qualitative Forschung bestätigt zum einen (Wert-)Verletzungen, die bereits in quantitativen Studien zum Medienhandeln Jugendlicher als Herausforderungen und Problembereiche thematisiert werden, und erweitert den Forschungsstand zum anderen um die spezifische Perspektive der Jugendlichen selbst. Der Beitrag liefert damit wichtige Impulse für die medienpädagogische Praxis und Anknüpfungspunkte für weitere Forschungsarbeiten.
First report of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, infecting hops, Humulus lupulus, in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Gonsaga R. F. , Pollo A. Souza , Nascimento D. D. , Ferreira R. J. , Braz L. T. , Soares P. L. M.
Published: March 2021

In 2019, during a nematologic survey in Jaboticabal, Brazil, root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita parasitizing hops (Humulus lupulus) was identified with based on morphological characters of adults, esterase phenotypes (n = 16), and molecular analysis. Modified Koch’s postulates was carried out and after 90 days, the average total population recovered had different stages of development, with a reproductive factor (RF) of 4.81. This is the first report of H. lupulus as a host of M. incognita in the state of São Paulo and in Brazil.
Crecimiento y viabilidad celular de microalgas: efecto del medio de cultivo
Authors: Oviedo-Montiel Harold , Herrera-Cruz Edwin , Hoya-Florez Jenny , Prieto-Guevara Martha , Estrada-Posada Ana , Yepes Blandón Jonny Andrés
Published: March 2021

En acuicultura, el uso de microalgas es fundamental en la primera alimentación de especies nativas de peces, pues su óptimo nivel nutricional favorece la sobrevivencia. El éxito de la producción de microalgas depende, entre otras, del medio de cultivo empleado. Los fertilizantes agrícolas usados como medio de cultivo son una alternativa de bajo costo que favorece el crecimiento celular y la criopreservación. El objetivo fue evaluar el efecto de dos medios de cultivo sobre el crecimiento poblacional (CP) y la viabilidad celular post-descongelación (VCP) de microalgas Chlorella sp., Desmodesmus sp., y Ankistrodesmus sp. Se evaluó el CP y VCP los medios de cultivo F/2 Guillard, y Nutrifoliar®. Para el CP en ambos tratamientos se determinó: crecimiento (k), tiempo de duplicación (td), rendimiento (r) y densidad máxima (dm). Para VCP se empleó metanol al 5 y 10 %, en seis tratamientos. La VCP se clasificó: sin daño celular (SDC), daño celular (DC) y lesiones marcadas (LM). El crecimiento poblacional fue igual para las tres microalgas (p>0,05). El T1 tuvo el menor td para Desmodesmus sp. (p<0,05). El T2 presentó el mayor r y dm para las tres microalgas (p <0,05). En la viabilidad celular post-descongelación, el mayor porcentaje SDC para Chlorella sp., al día (d) cero, fue similar en T3 y T4 y al d cinco fue en T6; para Desmodesmus sp, al d cero fue en T6 y al d cinco fue similar en T6 y T1; mientras que, para Ankistrodesmus sp, al d cero y cinco se presentó en T3. Se concluye que el medio de cultivo Nutrifoliar®, es una alternativa viable y de bajo costo para el cultivo y la criopreservación de microalgas de agua dulce.
Análisis físico-químico y fitoplanctónico de la ciénaga Puerto Caimán, vertiente Caribe, Colombia
Authors: Blanco-Muñoz Esperanza , De la Parra-Guerra Ana Cristina , García-Alzate Carlos , Villarreal-Blanco Eduardo
Published: March 2021

Se evaluaron las condiciones ambientales en la ciénaga de Puerto Caimán, vertiente Caribe, Colombia, teniendo en cuenta las variables físico-químicas y su influencia en la taxocenosis del fitoplancton de la ciénaga. Cinco estaciones fueron establecidas, teniendo en cuenta algunas características del cuerpo de agua (entrada de arroyos y agua de mar, morfología y extensión). En cada una de las estaciones, se filtraron 24 L de agua superficial, con una malla de diámetro de poro de 24 μm para la recolección de fitoplancton. Adicionalmente, se registraron in situ variables físico-químicas y se evaluaron índices de contaminación ambiental (ICOS). El comportamiento de variables físico-químicas tales como alcalinidad, conductividad, sólidos totales suspendidos, pH, oxígeno disuelto y temperatura superficial del agua mostró variación espacio-temporal en el cuerpo de agua. La composición del fitoplancton registró cambios en la riqueza y densidad. La mayor densidad (1,045 Cél.mL-1) se observó en el tercer muestreo. Nitzschia acicularis presentó la mayor densidad en todos los muestreos (994 Cél.mL-1), seguida por Entomoneis alata (243 Cél.mL-1) y Anabaena flos-aquae (181 Cél.mL-1). Los ICOS, por su parte, evidenciaron contaminación en la ciénaga de Puerto Caimán por efectos de los sólidos totales suspendidos (ICOSUS), la mineralización (ICOMI) y efectos antrópicos tales como la ganadería, destrucción de la vegetación ribereña y vertimientos domésticos. La ciénaga de Puerto Caimán es un ambiente contaminado-eutrofizado, caracterizado por especies de fitoplancton que han sido reportadas como indicadores de aguas contaminadas.
Integrated Nutritional Supports for Diabetic Patients During COVID-19
Infection: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Huq A.K. Obidul , Bazlur Rahim Abu Naim Mohammad , Moktadir S.M. Golam , Uddin Ielias , Manir Mohammad Zahidul , Siddique Muhammad Abu Bakr , Islam Khaleda , Islam Md. Sirajul
Published: March 2021

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is an endocrine metabolic disorder, which affects the major
organs in human and comorbid with others. Besides, diabetic patients are more prone to various
infectious diseases as well as COVID-19 sporadic infection which is a high risk for patients with diabetes
mellitus. To combat these infections and comorbid situations, an integrated balanced nutritional
supportive could help in maintaining sound health and increase immunity for prevention and
management of such type of viral infections.

Objectives:

While information regarding nutritional supports in COVID-19 pandemic in diabetic
patients is not available, this review aimed to accumulate the evidence from previous publications
where studied about nutrition-based supports or interventions for viral diseases with special emphasis
on respiratory infections.

Methods:

For reviewing, searches are done for getting journal articles into Google Scholar, Pub
Med/Medline, Database of Open Access Journal and Science Direct for relevant data and information.

Results:

Integrated nutritional supports of both macronutrients and micronutrients guidelines, including
home-based physical exercise schedule, is summarized in this comprehensive review for
possible prevention and management of diabetic patients in COVID-19 infections. The immuneboosting
benefits of some vitamins, trace elements, nutraceuticals and probiotics in viral infections
of diabetic patients are also included.

Conclusion:

There is an urgent need for a healthy diet and integrated nutritional supports with
home-based physical activities for diabetic patients during the self-isolation period of COVID-19
Infection.