bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic Surgery vs. Open Surgery for Older Patients with Rectal Cancer: A Comparative Study of Propensity Score
Authors: Li Qiang , Gao Hong , Wang Jin-Zhong , Zhu Yu-Bing
Published: July 2021

Background The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of laparoscopic surgery to open rectal cancer surgery in patients aged 70 years and older. Methods Consecutive patients (≥70 years old) who underwent rectal cancer surgery were retrospectively selected. Based on the covariates (age, gender, body mass index (BMI), ASA, TNM staging), the propensity score was calculated for paired comparison. The Tumor Distance from the Anal Verge (TDAV), history of abdominal surgery, combined diseases, time of operation, amount of blood loss, anastomosis method, postoperative hospital stay, time to first exhaust, time to first oral diet, postoperative complications, postoperative 30-day mortality and postoperative pathological staging of two groups were collected. Results Shorter operating time, higher intraoperative blood loss, slower intestinal function, longer time to first exhaust, longer postoperative hospital stay, higher incidence of postoperative complications (no statistical difference), and shorter duration of analgesics were observed in the OS group (all P<0.05). The sphincter preserving rate was basically the same in the two groups. For low rectal cancer with TDAV < 5 cm, more patients tended to choose LS (P=0.051); for middle rectal cancer with TDAV of 5-10 cm, more patients tended to choose OS (P=0.032). There was no significant difference in postoperative survival rate between the two groups. Conclusions In older patients, laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery led to less trauma, and a faster recovery compared to open surgery, with significant short-term advantages and no significant long-term advantages. For low rectal cancer, the advantage of LS was more prominent.
HERV-K18 Env Expression and the Potential Association With TGF-β and Epstein–Barr Virus Infection in the Presence and the Absence of Vitamin D in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Latifi Tayebeh , Teymoori-Rad Majid , Nejati Ahmad , Shahmahmoodi Shohreh , Rezaei Farhad , Marashi Sayed Mahdi
Published: July 2021

Previous studies have reported that Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) such as HERV-K18 is associated with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). The present study aimed to evaluate the association between the expression of HERV-K18 env, TGF-β, and in vitro effect of EBV infection on the expression level of HERV-K18 env in PBMC of MS patients in both presence and absence of vitamin D (1,25-OHD). The levels of HERV-K18 env was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 20 MS patients and 20 healthy controls by quantitative real-time PCR. PBMCs were further treated with EBV in the presence or the absence of vitamin D. After 72 hours, cells were collected for measurement of HERV-K18 env expression using Real-time PCR. While the expression of HERV-K18 env was significantly higher in MS patients than healthy controls, the expression of TGF–β was found to be significantly lower in MS patients compare to healthy controls. Interestingly, an inverse correlation was found between HERV-K18 env expression and TGF-β expression in MS patients but not for healthy controls. Although in vitro stimulated PBMCs with EBV showed no significant differences in terms of HERV-K18 expression, EBV infected cells revealed different patterns in the presence and the absence of vitamin D treatment. These findings not only support the important role of HERV-K18 env expression but also highlight the plausible interactions with different risk factors in MS.
Correlation Analysis Between Preoperative Systemic Immune Inflammation Index and Prognosis of Gastric Carcinoma Patients: Based on Propensity Score Matching Method
Authors: Xu Zhaojun , Chen Xiaobin , An Juan , Yuan Jiaqi , Jiang Shuyun , Liu Tao , Cai Baojia , Wang Cheng , Ma Xiaoming
Published: July 2021

Background: To explore the correlation between the preoperative systemic immune inflammation index (SII) and the prognosis of patients with gastric carcinoma (GC).Methods: The clinical data of 771 GC patients surgically treated in the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital from June 2010 to June 2015 were retrospectively analyzed, and their preoperative SII was calculated. The optimal cut-off value of preoperative SII was determined using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the confounding factors between the two groups were eliminated using the propensity score matching (PSM) method, and the correlation between preoperative SII and clinicopathological characteristics was assessed by chi-square test. Moreover, the overall survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier method, the survival curve was plotted, and log-rank test was performed for the significance analysis between the curves. Univariate and multivariate analyses were also conducted using the Cox proportional hazards model.Results: It was determined by the ROC curve that the optimal cut-off value of preoperative SII was 489.52, based on which 771 GC patients were divided into high SII (H-SII) group and low SII (L-SII) group, followed by PSM in the two groups. The results of Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that before and after PSM, the postoperative 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates in L-SII group were superior to those in H-SII group, and the overall survival rate had a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05). Before PSM, preoperative SII [hazard ratio (HR) =2.707, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.074-3.533, P<0.001] was an independent risk factor for the prognosis of GC patients. After 1:1 PSM, preoperative SII (HR=2.669, 95%CI: 1.881-3.788, P<0.001) was still an independent risk factor for the prognosis of GC patients.Conclusions: Preoperative SII is an independent risk factor for the prognosis of GC patients. The increase in preoperative SII in peripheral blood indicates a worse prognosis.
Paeonol Inhibits the Development of Rheumatoid Arthritis Through the Formyl Peptide Receptor 2
Authors: yubao shao , Dan Ji , Lanxin Bao , Wenhao Li , Jinchen Dai , Mengmeng Chen , Taorong Wang , Jing Ye , Dahai Zhao , Xiaoyu Chen
Published: July 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a refractory systemic autoimmune disease associated with synovial inflammation. Previous studies postulate that paeonol has good anti-arthritis effects on RA. However, its systematic description remains unknown. Herein, we used bioinformatics tools to evaluate the mechanism of paeonol in arthritis systematically. A macrophage model was employed to study the differentially expressed genes between the inflammation and normal group, revealing 169 inflammation-related genes. Another 275 key genes affected by paeonol were identified in the same model. Three key genes, FPR2, Cd83, and Cfb, were obtained after combining the two data sets. Paeonol inhibited the release of inflammatory factors and the proliferation of synovial. However, its inhibitory effect was blocked by Fpr2 blocker WRW4. In summary, paeonol can inhibit the development of arthritis through FPR2. This provides new scope for the design and development of FPR2 ligands.
Selection of Species Specific Panel of Reference Genes Across Native Livestock Species Adapted to Trans-Himalayan Region of Leh-ladakh
Authors: Tiwari Manish , Sodhi Monika , Verma Preeti , Vivek Prince , Kataria Ranjit S , Niranjan Saket K , Bharti Vijay K , Masharing Nampher , Gujar Gayatri , Chanda Divya , Mukesh Manishi
Published: July 2021

The identification of appropriate references genes is an integral component of any gene expression-based study for getting accuracy and reliability in data interpretation. In this study, we evaluated the expression stability of 10 candidate reference genes (GAPDH, RPL4, EEF1A1, RPS9, HPRT1, UXT, RPS23, B2M, RPS15, ACTB) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of livestock species that are adapted to high altitude hypoxia conditions of Leh-Ladakh. A total of 37 PBMCs samples from six native livestock species of leh-Ladakh region such as Ladakhi cattle (LAC), Ladakhi yak (LAY), Ladakhi donkey (LAD), Chanthangi goat (CHG), Double hump cattle (DHC) and Zanskar ponies (ZAP) were included in this study. The commonly used statistical algorithms such as geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and RefFinder were employed to assess the stability of these RGs in all the livestock species. Our study has identified different panel of reference genes in each species; for example, EEF1A1, RPL4 in Ladakhi cattle; GAPDH, RPS9, ACTB in Ladakhi yak; HPRT1, B2M, ACTB in Ladakhi donkey; HPRT1, B2M, ACTB in Double hump camel, RPS9, HPRT1 in Changthangi goat, HPRT1 and ACTB in Zanskar ponies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic attempt to identify panel of RGs across different livestock species types adapted to high altitude hypoxia conditions. In future, the findings of the present study would be quite helpful in conducting any transcriptional studies to understand the molecular basis of high altitude adaptation of native livestock population of Leh-Ladakh.
Gut Microbiota and Host Cyp450s Co-contribute to Pharmacokinetic Variability in Mice With Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis: Vary From Drug to Drug
Authors: Guo Jing , Xu Ying , Chen Li-Jie , Zhang Song-xia , Rao Tai , Peng Jing-bo , Guo Ying , Tan Zhi-rong , Ou-yang Dong-sheng , Chen Xiao-ping , Liou Yu-Ligh , Zhang Wei , Chen Yao
Published: July 2021

Background: Pharmacokinetic variability in disease state is common in clinical practice, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We aim to investigate the effects of gut microbiota and host Cyp450s on pharmacokinetic variability in mice with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).Methods: The pharmacokinetic variability of mice with NASH was explored under intragastric and intravenous administration of a cocktail mixture of omeprazole, phenacetin, midazolam, tolbutamide, chlorzoxazone, and metoprolol compared with the control group. The pharmacokinetic variability of the drugs and its relation with changes of gut microbiota and host Cyp450s were compared and analyzed.Results: The exposure of all drugs, except metoprolol, significantly increased in the NASH group under intragastric administration. However, no significant increase in the exposure of all drugs, except tolbutamide, was observed in the NASH group under intravenous administration. The pharmacokinetic variabilities of phenacetin, midazolam, omeprazole, and chlorzoxazone were mainly associated with decreased elimination activity of the gut microbiota. By contrast, the pharmacokinetic variability of tolbutamide was mainly related to the change in host Cyp2c65. However, gut microbiota and host Cyp450s exerted minimal effect on the pharmacokinetic variability of metoprolol.Conclusions: Gut microbiota and host Cyp450s co-contribute the pharmacokinetic variability in mice with NASH, and the degree of contribution varies from drug to drug.
Research on the Method of Solving Kinematics Parameters of Three-axis Dynamic Centrifuge
Authors: Zhou Bang-Zhao , Zhang Shuai , Yang Min , Chen Sheng-Lai , Ou Feng , Zhang Ya-Hong
Published: July 2021

With the development of aerospace technology, the maneuverability of various types of aircraft continues to improve, and these aircraft experience an overload environment with high acceleration and high acceleration rate. Due to the special influence brought by the high acceleration rate, the dynamic centrifugal test technology, which is different from the traditional steady-state centrifugal test technology, came into being. The steady-state centrifuge has only one rotor, while the dynamic centrifuge has multiple rotors; so, the relationship between the acceleration of the control point and the motion parameters of the rotors is more complicated. Therefore, a key issue of the dynamic centrifugal test technology is the inverse kinematics of the dynamic centrifuge, which is to calculate the kinematic parameters of the dynamic centrifuge according to the expected acceleration environment that needs to be simulated on the centrifuge. After the kinematic parameters is calculated, the control target of each rotor of the dynamic centrifuge could be known, then the expected acceleration environment could be produced. In this paper, 1) on the basis of the predecessors, the equation for solving the angular velocity of the main arm of the centrifuge is improved; 2) and then a time step adaptive method is proposed, which takes into account the calculation accuracy and efficiency. As a result, an inverse kinematics algorithm that is more accurate and adaptable to various acceleration history curve is obtained. Finally, the inverse kinematics algorithm in this paper is verified through experiments and numerical simulations.
Clinical Treatment Options for Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative Infections in China: a Single Centre Real-world Experience
Authors: Sheng Ruanmei , Wang Xuemin , Hou Yanqiang , Liu Jun , Yang Zhiwen
Published: July 2021

Carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria constitute a serious threat to public health worldwide. However, as a result of the complexities of clinical therapy, antibiotic options against carbapenem-resistant pathogens have not yet been fully standardized. Here, we conducted a retrospective study in 65,000 inpatients over a 2-year period that involved a total of 86 patients from whom carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria were isolated. Monotherapy using trimethoprim/ sulfamethoxazole, amikacin, meropenem, and/or doxycycline in our hospital exhibited a clinical success rate of 83.3% for carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, monotherapy using moxifloxacin, piperacillin/tazobactam, cefepime, and/or ceftazidime for carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited a clinical success rate of 77.7%, and monotherapy using cefoperazone/sulbactam or combination therapy with tigecycline and cefoperazone/sulbactam for carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii exhibited a clinical success rate of 62.1%. Our findings highlight the clinical strategies used in our hospital to successfully treat carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacterial infections.
Whole-Genome Identification and Salt- and ABA-Induced Expression Trends of the Nicotiana tabacum CKX gene family
Authors: Chen Wenwen , Wang Genhong , Yi Meiqin , Song Chunman , Gao Qian , Xia Qingyou , Xiang Haiying
Published: July 2021

Cytokinin hormones are indispensable for plant growth and development. Cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase (CKX) helps regulate the dynamic balance of endogenous cytokinin levels. However, little is known about the CKX genes of Nicotiana tabacum (NtCKXs). In silico analyses were used to isolate, characterize, and elucidate the phylogenetic relationships of 15 NtCKX genes. Multi-species phylogenetic tree construction placed NtCKX1–15 on five of the eight branches of the CKX phylogenetic tree. Protein structure and network analyses revealed that NtCKX genes located on the same phylogenetic branch generally contain several conserved motifs and have highly similar structures, with structural domains related to flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and cytokinin-binding found on all of the predicted NtCKX-encoded proteins. The upstream promotor region of NtCKX genes contained a large number of abiotic stress-responsive cis-acting elements, including DRE, ERE, MBS, MYB, and MYC. Gene expression analysis revealed that each NtCKX gene has a different response to salt- and exogenous ABA-stress. Four NtCKX genes exhibited ABA-induced expression trends with varying peak times. Under salt-stress, NtCKX expression was significantly suppressed in two genes and upregulated in five others. In summary, we have provided basic in-formation about the CKX gene family of N. tabacum, and elucidated their gene expression patterns under abiotic stresses, including ABA- and salt-stress. The findings of this work can serve as a foundation for future study of the functions of N. tabacum CKX genes.
VHL Expression Level in the Pathological Tissue is Significantly Associated with Hematotoxicity of Platinum-based Chemotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients.
Authors: Cao Yejun , Zhang Qiying , Han Yang , Huang Zhiyuan , Chai Zhengjun , Liu Jie , Wang Jinyi , Sun Zhengliang , Zhao Tian , Wang Guangxue , Chen Guohan , Li Qinchuan , Hong Xuan
Published: July 2021

Objective To investigate the association between expression level of Von Hippel-Lindau(VHL) in pathological tissue and hematotoxicity of platinum-based chemotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods The pathological samples of NSCLC patients were obtained for immunohistochemical staining to evaluate the expression level of VHL. Furthermore, their clinical data were collected and prognosis was traced by phone. The correlation between gene expression level and the hematotoxicity was evaluated by chi-square test. The influence of VHL expression level on the risk of hematotoxicity was tested by logistic regression model. The survival curve was plotted by Kaplan-Meier method and the survival rate between the two groups was compared by log-rank test. Results A total of 110 NSCLC patients were enrolled in this study, the median follow-up time of these patients was 27.5 months. In the whole group, 31 patients had died by the last date of follow-up to get their survival information (Nov.10,2020), with a median survival time of 24.3 months. Though immunohistochemical analysis,we found that 59 patients(53.6%) had weak expression level of VHL or lack of expression in their tumor tissues,while 51 patients(46.4%) presented moderate or high expression. We found that the patients with weak expression of VHL in their carcinoma tissue or lack of expression had more opportunities to occur neutropenia after platinum-based chemotherapy(OR=0.264,95%CI=0.085-0.818,P-value=0.021).And the expression level of VHL was correlated with OS(Logrank test: P-value= 0.007，HR= 4.219,95%CI: 1.75-10.174, P-value=0.001), while not related with DFS(Logrank test：P-value=0.256，HR= 1.334,95%CI:0.642-2.769, P-value=0.440). Conclusion The expression level of VHL gene in pathological tissue is related with granulocytopenia and leukocytotoxicity after platinum-based chemotherapy in NSCLC patients. It can be used as a biomarker to predict the risk of neutropenia and the prognosis of NSCLC patients.
Procalcitonin, Pentraxine 3, and Molecules of the Vascular Endothelium are Hallmark of Pathogenicity and Predict Coma and Mortality Among Children with Severe and Cerebral Malaria
Authors: Tornyigah Bernard , Blankson Samuel , Adamou Rafiou , Moussiliou Azizath , Rietmeyer Lauriane , Tettey Patrick , Dikroh Liliane , ADDO Bernard , Lamptey Helena , Alao Maroufou , Annick Amoussou , Padounou Caroline , Roussilhon Christian , Pons Sylvie , Mensah Benedicta , Ndam Nicaise , Tahar Rachida
Published: July 2021

Background: Malaria-related deaths could be prevented if prompt diagnosis and prognostic biomarkers are available to allow rapid adequate treatment. Understanding of the mechanisms implicated in the progression from P. falciparum asymptomatic and uncomplicated malaria infections to severe life-threatening disease is necessary to identify such indicators. Methods: Using quantitative ELISA, we assessed the plasma concentrations of Procalcitonin, Pentraxine 3, Ang-2, sTie-2, suPAR, sEPCR, and sICAM-1 in a cohort of 337 Beninese children who presented with pediatric malaria to investigate the potential association with clinical manifestations and outcomes. Results: The molecules showed higher levels in children with severe or cerebral malaria compared to those with uncomplicated malaria. Plasmas concentrations of PTX3, PCT and the soluble receptors suPAR, sTie-2, sICAM-1 were significantly higher in children with deep coma as defined by a Blantyre Coma Score < 3 (P <0.001 for PTX3, suPAR, sTie-2, p=0.004 for PCT and p=0.005 for sICAM-1). Moreover, the concentrations of PTX3, suPAR and sEPCR were higher among children who died from severe malaria compared to those who survived with (p=0.037, p=0.035, and p=0.002 respectively).Conclusion: Our findings indicate the ability of these seven bioactive molecules to discriminate among the clinical manifestations of malaria and therefore, given their potential utility as prognostic biomarkers for severe and fatal malaria, they might be useful to improve severe cases management.
An Insight into the Botanical Origins of Propolis from Permanent Preservation and Reforestation Areas of Southern Brazil
Authors: Sartori Alan Giovanini Oliveira , Spada Fernanda Papa , Ribeiro Victor Pena , Rosalen Pedro Luiz , Ikegaki Masaharu , Bastos Jairo Kenupp , de Alencar Severino Matias
Published: July 2021

Brown propolis from permanent preservation and reforestation areas of southern Brazil have attracted international commercial interest and have a unique composition, although little is known about their botanical origins, which are the plant resins used by bee foragers to produce propolis. Hence, the volatile profiles of organic and non-organic brown propolis and resins of suspected botanical origins – Araucaria angustifolia, Pinus elliott and Pinus taeda – were determined using static headspace gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (SHS-GCMS) and compared. Nighty nine volatiles were tentatively identified, and monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes were the most abundant classes. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed similarity between organic propolis and A. angustifolia volatile profiles (p < 0.05). Hierarchical clustering analysis showed singularities among propolis, even between propolis produced 1 km away from each other. Heatmaps were used to identify peaks present in similar relative intensities in both propolis and conifer resins. Hence, the approach using volatile profiles shed light to propolis botanical origins, which is important for authentication and traceability purposes.
Various Histological Types of Renal Cell Carcinoma Associated With Hereditary Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma (HPRCC): a Case Report
Authors: FERLICOT Sophie , Just Pierre-Alexandre , Compérat Eva , Rouleau Etienne , Tissier Frédérique , Vaessen Christophe , Richard Stéphane
Published: July 2021

Background: Hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma (HPRCC) is a rare autosomal dominant disease characterized by the development of multiple and bilateral papillary type I renal cell carcinomas (RCC) and papillary adenomas caused by activating mutations in the MET proto-oncogene. Classically, distinctive histological features of RCC are described according to the familial renal cell carcinoma syndrome. To date, no clear cell RCC has been reported in HPRCC syndrome. Case presentation: We describe the case of a 51-year-old man with a germline MET mutation, who developed numerous papillary tumors but also unexpectedly clear cell renal cell carcinomas. During the follow-up, an adrenal metastasis was observed seven years after the initial diagnosis corresponding to a clear cell RCC metastasis. Using FISH, the metastatic tumor presented a trisomy of chromosomes 7 and 17. These genomic alterations are usually detected in papillary RCC, highlighting the potential link between both histological subtypes of tumors and the HPRCC syndrome.Conclusions: The pathologist must be aware that the presence of a non-papillary RCC associated with numerous papillary tumors should not exclude the diagnostic suspicion of HPRCC and thus to perform a thorough genomic study.
Experiment and Kinetic Modeling of Soil Extract Effects on Dunaliella Primolecta Growth
Authors: Ahmad Dzulkarnain , Ghani Intan Faraha A , Yaacob Nor Suhaila , Mokhtaram Mokhtazul Haizad , Ahmad Mohd Fadzli , Badli Mohammad Iqbal
Published: July 2021

Recent studies have shown that extracted soil has the potential to enhance microalgae growth. An experiment was conducted, and a kinetic model was developed to understand and predict the growth rate of Dunaliella primolecta with consideration of soil extract effects. Dunaliella primolecta was cultured and mixed with extracted soil from the Raja Musa Forest Reserve, Malaysia. At present, no model of microalgal growth associated with the soil extract effect has been developed to predict cell density and growth rate. A mathematical model was derived to describe the growth rate and cell density production of microalgae with soil extract in the cultured microplate. The prediction model of microalgae concentration agrees with the experimental data, with R2 ranging from 0.94 to 0.98. Culturing microalgae with 1% of soil extract concentration yielded a significant increment of growth rate. However, the growth rate remained constant at a higher concentration, suggesting the percentage as an optimal value. Thus, the soil extract acts as a growth enhancer that doubles the growth rate of cultured microalgae. A parametric study was conducted to characterize the light intensity and temperature effect on the growth model concerning soil extract effect.
Effect of COVID-19 on Patient Access to Health Services in Latin America: A Key Informant Survey
Authors: Kruse Meredith H , Durstine Alessandra , Evans Dabney P
Published: July 2021

BackgroundCOVID-19 has been felt acutely in Latin America with several countries having among the highest numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of COVID-19 on access to health services in Latin America, as reported by patient advocacy organizations representing autoimmune, chronic, and noncommunicable diseases.MethodsIn August 2020, we conducted an online key informant survey in Spanish and Portuguese among patient advocacy organizations in 18 countries in Latin America. Univariate and bivariate analysis was conducted across two main subject areas: perceived patient effects from COVID-19 and patient access to health services. The main outcomes of analysis considered patient access to care during COVID-19 based on type of chronic illness and geographical region in Latin America.ResultsA total of 81 survey responses were analyzed. A majority (83%) of patient advocacy organizations reported their patients experienced delays receiving their treatment and care services; 52% experienced delays of 30 days or more. Telemedicine was considered available, but not accessible to patients (37%) and a majority (76%) of patients faced challenges with electronic prescriptions. Patients were not likely to receive a multi-month prescription from their doctor (38%) or successfully fill it at the pharmacy (26%).ConclusionsPeople living with noncommunicable diseases in Latin America have been seriously impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As countries re-evaluate their health systems, it is critical that chronic diseases are considered so that all can fully realize the right to health.
The Decreased Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Could Predict a Good Prognosis in Patients with Oligometastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Single-Center Cohort Retrospective Study
Authors: Huang Xiaojuan , Cui Jin , Li Xiaohui , Liu Chao , Sun Jujie , Yue Jinbo
Published: July 2021

Background Inflammation markers have an important effect on tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Oligometastatic disease (OMD) is an intermediate state between widespread metastases and locally confined disease, where curative strategies may be effective for some patients. We aimed to explore the predictive value of inflammatory markers in patients with oligometastatic colorectal cancer (OMCC) and build a nomogram to predict the prognosis of these patients.Methods 209 patients with OMCC were retrospectively collected in this study. The Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox regression analysis were used to estimate overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). A Multivariate Cox analysis model was utilized to establish the nomogram. The concordance index (C-index), calibration curve, and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) were established to verify the validity and accuracy of the prediction model.Results According to the multivariate analysis, decreased platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) might independently improve OS in patients with OMCC (HR = 2.396, 95%CI: 1.391- 4.126, P = 0.002). Metastases of extra-regional lymph nodes indicated poor OS (HR = 2.472, 95%CI: 1.247-4.903, P = 0.010). While the patients with early N stage had better OS (HR = 4.602, 95%CI: 2.055-10.305, P = 0.001) and PFS (HR = 2.100, 95%CI: 1.364-3.231, P = 0.007). Primary tumor resection (HR = 0.367, 95%CI: 0.148-0.908, P = 0.030) and lower fibrinogen (HR = 2.254, 95%CI: 1.246-4.078, P = 0.007) could significantly prolong the OS in patients with OMCC. PLR, metastases of extra-regional lymph nodes, N stage, primary tumor resection, and fibrinogen were used to make up the nomogram. The C-index and area under the curve (AUC) of the ROC in nomogram were 0.721 and 0.772 respectively for OS, showed good consistency between predictive probability of OS and actual survival.Conclusions Decreased PLR could predict a good prognosis in patients with OMCC. The nomogram including inflammatory factors and clinicopathological markers was credible and accurate to predict survivals in patients with OMCC.
The Psychological Impact and suicidal behaviour in the context of COVID-19 pandemic, A Four Case report from Oman
Authors: maqbali Mandhar Al , Al-Huseini Salim , Eltanahy Ahmad Mohamed , Elawdy Mohamed
Published: July 2021

Background: Mandatory quarantine during COVID-19 has disrupted normal social and economic life and many people became trapped and isolated with increasing levels of anxiety and financial difficulties. Especially for vulnerable people, COVID-19 pandemic had shown by many studies to increase the depressive and anxiety symptoms as well as suicidal ideation and suicidal attempts. Increased suicidal attempts had been associated with the increased burden of the health and economic impacts of the pandemic.Cases Presentation: Here, we report four cases of suicidal attempts during the COVID 19 outbreak due to the lockdown and related economic difficulties. Those cases were admitted in a general hospital from the period April 2020 to June 2020.All patients were males, tested negative for corona virus and used violent methods of suicide. After receiving the appropriate treatment, all cases were discharged from hospital.Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic and its economic and social impacts could result in significant consequences on vulnerable persons. As shown by many studies, Screening and early treatment are of paramount importance in preventing the mental health complications of the pandemic
Influence of dextran solution and corneal collagen crosslinking on Corneal Biomechanical Parameters Evaluated by Corvis ST
Authors: Qin Xiao , Tian Lei , Zhang Hui , Zhang Di , Guo Li-Li , Zhang Hai-Xia , Jie Ying , Li Lin
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To analyze the influence of dextran solution and corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) on corneal biomechanical parameters evaluated by Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology (Corvis ST). Materials and Methods: Forty porcine eyes were included in this study. Twenty porcine eyes were soaked in dextran solution for 30 minutes (10 eyes in 2% dextran solution and 10 eyes in 20% dextran solution). CXL treatment was performed in 10 porcine eyes, the other 10 porcine eyes were regarded as a control group. Each eye was fixed on an experimental inflation platform to carry out Corvis measurements at different IOPs. Corneal biomechanical parameters were calculated based on Corvis measurement. Statistical analysis was used to analyze the influence of dextran solution and CXL on corneal biomechanical parameters based on Corvis parameters. Results: Corneal energy absorbed area (Aabsorbed) decreased after being soaked in dextran solution under IOP of 15 mmHg; Corneal elastic modulus (E) decreased after being soaked in 2% dextran solution and increased after being soaked in 20% dextran solution; SP-A1 increased after CXL. Conclusion: Both dextran solution and CXL can change corneal biomechanical properties; SP-A1 may be used as an effective parameter for the evaluation of CXL.
Examination of the Missense Mutation (rs74653330, Ala481Thr) of the Oculocutaneous Albinism 2 Gene to the Facial Skin Characteristics
Authors: Lee Dasom , Choi Ja-Eun , Park Da-Hyun , Hong Kyung-Won
Published: July 2021

ObjectiveA melanin pathway gene, oculocutaneous albinism 2 (OCA2) operates the first step of the melanin synthesis pathway and is known to associate with the albinism and pigmentation. Our previous study identified a significant association (p-value<5x10-8) between a OCA2 missense mutation (rs74653330, Ala481thr) and skin pigmentation. Since melanin pigment protects the skin from damage by ultraviolet light and we hypothesize that the rs74653330 SNP effect on the skin phenotypes not only the melanin, but also the other skin characteristics such as wrinkle formation, moisture level and sebum levels. We examined the association of the rs74653330 SNP to 19 skin characteristics consisting of wrinkle, moisture, melanin, erythema, brightness, and sebum using eight cosmetological instruments. ResultsThe rs74653330 SNP showed significant association with melanin phenotypes, specifically in young and middle groups. The melanin levels of pigmented area showed more melanin in middle age group but less in old group. Also, the rs74653330 SNP affect to wrinkle formation and sebum secretion. Conclusively, the analyses in this study clearly indicate that rs74653330 SNP affects to the melanin related skin phenotypes, and to the wrinkle formation or sebum secretion.
LncRNA EPB41L4A-AS1 Regulates Cell Proliferation, Apoptosis and Metastasis in Breast Cancer
Authors: FAN YANG , shixu Lv
Published: July 2021

Background: Breast cancer is a leading global public health problem. In our previous study, we identified that lncRNA EPB41L4A antisense RNA 1 (EPB41L4A-AS1) was significantly downregulated in breast cancer. However, the functional role of EPB41L4A-AS1 in breast cancer has not been clarified. Here, we further confirmed the expression and biological function of EPB41L4A-AS1 in breast cancer. Methods: To demonstrate the role of EPB41L4A-AS1 in breast cancer, we transfected breast cancer lines with pcDNA3.1-EPB41L4A-AS1 expression vector to induce ectopic overexpression of EPB41L4A-AS1. Then, to explore the role of EPB41L4A-AS1 overexpression in breast cancer cell growth, cell cycle, apoptosis, invasion and migration capacity, we performed CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry analysis, wound recovery and transwell assay, respectively. We also constructed a co-expression network to explore the potential effect mechanism of EPB41L4A-AS1. Results: Our research showed EPB41L4A-AS1 expression was significantly lower in tumor tissues than in adjacent non-cancerous tissues. overexpression of EPB41L4A-AS1 significantly reduced the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Flow cytometric analysis showed that forced expression of EPB41L4A-AS1 significantly increased the apoptosis rate of breast cancer cells. In addition, we found that upregulated EPB41L4A-AS1 significantly inhibited the migration and invasive ability of breast cancer. Functional analysis of co-expressed mRNAs suggested that EPB41L4A-AS1 may be involved in ribosomal, cell cycle, spliceosomal and p53 signaling pathways. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that EPB41L4A-AS1 is a tumor suppressor gene in breast cancer.
Healthcare workers' Attitude and Knowledge Towards the Safety of Nucleotide-Based Vaccines.
Authors: Madadha Mohammad Emad Al , E.Ahmed Khalid , Rayyan Rama , Ahram Mamoun , Al-Sanouri Nancy , Demour Saddam Al , Ahmad Muayyad
Published: July 2021

Background and objectives: With the implementation of nucleotide-based vaccines (NBVs) in the COVID-19 vaccination campaigns, a wide controversy surrounding NBVs has become a heated subject of debate, and it did not spare healthcare workers and staff. The latter group has a powerful influence on the acceptance of NBVs by the general public. Hence, the aim of this study to assess the knowledge and attitude of healthcare workers regarding this new vaccine technology.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study using an online survey involving health workers in Jordan. The survey assessed the participants' socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitude about the safety and efficacy if NBVs. The study population was divided into two groups, educated and uneducated groups, whereby the former received a small educational pamphlet on NBVs. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare between the response of the two groups.Results: A total of 330 health workers participated in this study. Respondents believed that RNA-based NBVs would be a safer option compared to DNA-based ones, with the educated group showing significant difference. The notion of NBVs being a form of gene therapy was more common among the educated group. The majority of the participants, particularly amongst the uneducated group, were concerned about undiscovered effects of NBVs. Respondents also agreed that NBVs must be reevaluated in phase 1 trials. As for efficacy, our study population agreed that these vaccines would prevent severe illness. Conclusions: Although healthcare workers have positive knowledge and attitude towards NBVs, misconceptions and skepticism exist and must be addressed with more education efforts.
Medical training alongside Covid-19: A qualitative analysis of the junior doctor experience
Authors: Grafton-Clarke Ciaran , Uraiby Hussein , Abraham Shalin , Kirtley Joanne , McCarthy Mark
Published: July 2021

Background

Covid-19 has had a seismic impact on medical training, in ways that are continually being realised. In response to the call to establish a ‘new normal’, we performed a detailed evaluation and thematic analysis of recent trainee experiences, which identifies the priorities for developing an innovative training framework that is adaptable during the peaks and troughs of a pandemic.
Methods

A 14-item survey was sent to junior doctors at a large teaching hospital. Data was analysed using a grounded theory framework and cycles of open and axial coding allowed for identification of emergent themes. Explanatory models were developed using inductive analysis to postulate thematic relationships.
Results

137 junior doctors responded to the survey. Respondents across all grades reported benefits to themselves, clinical teams and the profession. A notable benefit to junior trainees was the greater consultant support, fostering a more supportive work environment. Respondents also identified several challenges to working practice, including the availability of suitable PPE, burnout and the general pressures on physical and mental wellbeing.
Discussion

Trainees’ perceived value was inferred typically from how ‘busy’ they were, possibly as postgraduate training is largely competence based. Educational bodies should attempt to highlight the equal value of non-technical skills, such as mentorship and problem-solving for a rounded curriculum. Trainees highlighted the inequity of opportunities due to sometimes inappropriate redeployment, suggesting that educational bodies should strive to develop personalised training programmes. Covid-19 has shown that a sense of personal physical and psychological safety to be of paramount importance to trainees.
Estrogen Receptor β Activation Inhibits Colitis by Promoting NLRP6-Mediated Autophagy
Authors: Fan Wentao , Ding Chenchen , Liu Shuihui , Gao Xiaona , Shen Xiaofei , De Boevre Marthe , Gao Zhangshan , Li Mengcong , Zhang Shuo , Miao Yufan , Guan Wenxian , Liu Guangliang , Yan Liping , DeSaeger Sarah , Song Suquan
Published: July 2021

Estrogen receptor β (ERβ) and NLRP6 are highly expressed in intestinal tissues. Loss of ERβ and NLRP6 exacerbate colitis in mouse models. However, the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. Here, we report that ERβ attenuates inflammation by inducing NLRP6-mediated autophagy. Specifically, ERβ directly activates the NLRP6 gene expression via binding to estrogen responsive element (ERE) of Nlrp6 gene promoter. ERβ also physically interacts with the NLRP6 nucleotide-binding domain and promotes NLRP6 inflammasome assembly. The ERβ-NLRP6 axis then interacts with multiple autophagy-related proteins including ULK1, BECN1, ATG16L1, LC3B, p62 to affect the autophagosome biogenesis and control autophagic flux. Finally, NLRP6-mediated autophagy suppresses the inflammatory response by promoting the K48-linked polyubiquitination of ASC, Casp-1 p20, IL-1β, TNF-α, and prohibitin-2. Thus, ERβ-NLRP6 direct an anti-inflammatory response by promoting autophagy. Our work uncovers an ERβ-NLRP6-autophagy pathway as an unrecognized regulatory mechanism that maintains intestinal epithelial cell homeostasis and facilitates tissue repair in colitis.
Role of Leishmanin Skin Test (LST) as Epidemiological Indicators for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Al-tragma Village, River Nile State, Sudan
Authors: Osman Abdelgani Mohamed , Abakar Adam Dawoud , Abdalla Nazar Mohamed , Hussain Kamal , Hassan Rasha Slaha El-deen , Mohamedahmed Khalid Abdelsamea , Mahmoud Saseed Bakiker
Published: July 2021

Background

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a common health problem in the world and the zoonotic form reported to occur in Sudan. Leishmaniasis has been considered the second parasitic health problem after malaria. Therefore we determine the role of Leishmanin Skin Test (LST) as epidemiological indicators for CL infection in Al-tragma village; one of the endemic areas for the disease in Sudan.
Methods

The study is a cross-sectional study, 410 individuals inhabiting Al-tragma village were enrolled in the study. Two methods used in this study; structure questionnaire and LST. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect and tested socio-demographic characteristics. The LST was performed by intradermal injection of 0.1 ml LST antigen on the volar surface of the left forearm. The result of LST was read after 48–72 hours using the ballpoint pen technique. SPSS (v 20.0) was used for data analysis.
Results

LST results showed that 70.7% of respondents were positive and 29.3% were negative. The most infected age groups were 31–40 years (80%) and more than 40 years (82%). The result showed there was a significant difference between LTS and age groups, occupation, domestic and pets animals found in and around the houses, and those having the disease before (P-value < 0.05).
Conclusion

The overall positive rate for LST was (70.7%). The exposure duration had no effect on LST results. It seems that those patients acquired long-lasting immunity. LST is still a promising tool to evaluate the epidemiological status in endemic areas.
Infrared Nanoscopy and Tomography of Intracellular Structures
Authors: Kanevche Katerina , Burr David , Elsaesser Andreas , Hass Pascal-Kolja , Nuernberg Dennis , Heberle Joachim
Published: July 2021

The few microscopic techniques that simultaneously gather morphological and chemical data often rely on the use of specific markers. To eliminate this flaw, we have developed a method of examining cellular cross sections using the imaging power of scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy at a spatial resolution far beyond the diffraction limit. Herewith, nanoscale surface and volumetric chemical imaging is performed using the intrinsic contrast generated by the characteristic absorption of mid-infrared radiation by the covalent bonds. We employ infrared nanoscopy to study the subcellular structures of eukaryotic (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii) and prokaryotic (Escherichia coli) species, revealing chemically distinct regions within each cell such as the microtubular structure of the flagellum. Serial 100 nm-thick cellular cross-sections were compiled into a tomogram yielding a three-dimensional infrared image of subcellular structure distribution at 20 nm resolution. The presented methodology is able to image biological samples competing current fluorescence nanoscopy but at less interference due to the low energy of infrared radiation and the absence of labeling.
Environmental impact assessment of preventive emulsion based on heavy oil residue on organic pollution of water
Authors:   Perm Federal Research Center UB RAS, Bachurin Boris
Published: July 2021

Introduction. Dusty surfaces insulation with preventive emulsions based on heavy oil residue (HOR) is a promising environmental technology in open-pit mining. To assess the environmental safety of these emulsions, it is required to assess the possible scale of organic pollutants emission into the technogenic leakage fluxes occurring due to the interaction of HOR insulation with precipitation. Research aim is to assess the scale of organic pollutants leaching occurring due to the interaction of HOR insulation with precipitation. Research methods. Laboratory modeling of HOR samples and water interaction and assessment of the scale of organic compounds (bitumen and oil products) discharge into the water environment. Results. Studies have shown that the addition of an insulating emulsion based on heavy oil residue leads to the creation of an organo-mineral mixture with hydrophobic properties, determining low solubility of hydrocarbons in water and posing no threat of excess organic pollution to the hydrosphere.
Physical modeling of a skip pneumatic winder
Authors:   Ural State Mining University, Leontiev Aleksandr
Published: July 2021

Introduction. The analytical phase of research on mine skip pneumatic winders has been passed, so the theoretical provisions have to be tested by the methods of physical modeling which is aimed at confirming the mathematical model adequacy and assessing the effectiveness of different types of sealing devices. Research methods. Physical modeling phases have been formulated, including modeling by geometric and aerodynamic similarity criteria, constructing aerodynamic characteristics of the installation, carrying out experiments with non-contacting and combined seals, and calculating the values of the installation volumetric efficiency based on the experimental data obtained. Research results. The lifting time of the skip model with different masses of material and seal types has been determined. The installation working points in the “flow rate–pressure” coordinate system have been identified, and the values of the volumetric efficiency have been calculated for each working point. Analysis of the results. A satisfactory convergence of calculated and experimental parameters of the physical model has been established. The model's volumetric efficiency has reached a technically acceptable level. The expected value of the experimental model’s volumetric efficiency has been calculated according to the similarity constants. Conclusions. The model's study revealed the convergence of the experimentally obtained volumetric efficiency of the model with its calculated values and proved the applicability of the mathematical model to experimental sample parameters calculation. The volumetric efficiency of the installation with both non-contacting and combined seals is quite high allowing to recommend the studied sealing devices for mine pneumatic winders.