bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isotopic signature in integration with hydrochemistry to infer the groundwater quality in alluvial aquifer, Jhajjar district, Haryana, NCR, India
Authors: Kumari Rina , Kumar Sudhir , Rao Mavidanam Someshwar , Mukherjee Saumitra , Sen Ratan
Published: July 2021

In many Asian megacities, millions of human inhabitants are dependent on groundwater for fulfilling daily water demand due to lack of public water supply and infrastructure. Many of these megacities are situated on alluvial plains which are more susceptible to contamination also. The present study has been carried out in Jhajjar District, Haryana, a part of Indo-Gangetic Plain, India. Indo-Gangetic plain, harbour one of the most productive alluvial aquifer of the world and plays an important role in Indian economy. After green revolution, in a large part of Indo-Gangetic plain groundwater salinization and contamination has been reported. In past few decades, groundwater in Jhajjar district is continuously degraded by fluoride, sulphate, chloride, salinity, etc. problems. So, the present study aims to assess the groundwater quality of the alluvial aquifer of Jhajjar district using integrated approach. Hydrochemistry in integration with stable isotopes (δ18O and δD), GIS and multivariate statistical analysis has been to decipher the sub-surface geochemical processes taking place. Twenty-one groundwater samples were collected and a total 14 hydro-chemical parameter and water stable isotopes (δ18O and δD) has been analyzed. Hierarchical clustering of hydro-chemical and isotopic data classified the water in three groups, varying from fresh to brackish/salt waters. Sampling location with higher salinity is showing enriched fluoride signature. Depletion in water level, insufficient flushing with freshwater is affecting fresh-saline water interface which favors the dissolution and mobilization of salts from the unsaturated zone as well as pollution in aquifer. Understanding the recharge processes and the groundwater dynamics is critical to assess the vulnerability and protection of groundwater resources.
Theta Burst Stimulation in Adults with Symmetric and Asymmetric Visual Acuity
Authors: Tuna Ana Rita , Lc Nuno Pinto , Fernandes Andresa , Brardo Francisco Miguel , Pato Maria Vaz
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Theta Burst Stimulation can influence adult neuro-visual response in imbalanced visual pathways, possibly by influencing cortical excitability. Our objective was to compare suppressive imbalance (SI) and visual acuity (VA) after applying repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) between groups of subjects with normal binocular vision, visual asymmetry and amblyopia. Methods: Thirty – five volunteers between 19 and 51 years of age, were split into three groups: 6 volunteers with asymmetric VA (group A); 19 amblyopes (group B); and 10 subjects with normal binocular vision (group C). VA and SI of all groups were evaluated before and after a single session of continuous theta-burst stimulation (cTBS) or placebo stimulation over the right occipital cortex. Results: In both groups A and B we found a significant VA improvement in the non-dominant eye after cTBS (p=0.04 and p=0.01, respectively). In SI evaluation, group A and group B also revealed a significant improvement after the cTBS session (p=0.03 and p=0.01, respectively).Finally, in the group of volunteers with normal binocular vision and for placebo groups A and B, there were no significant differences in VA and SI after cTBS. Conclusions: Amblyopic and visually asymmetric individuals improved VA and SI of the non-dominant eye after cTBS when compared to baseline and to placebo stimulation. These enhancements were not found in the group of volunteers with normal binocular vision. We can therefore reasonably assume that cTBS may interfere with the visual system of subjects that present some kind of asymmetry, possibly by improving neuronal imbalances.
Contamination Level, Source Identification And Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements In Drinking Water Sources of Mining And Non-Mining Areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Bhatti Zahid , Ishtiaq Muhammad , Khan Said , nawab javed , Khan Sardar , Baig Shams , Muhammad Ihsan , Din Zia , Khan Asad , Ghani Junaid
Published: July 2021

Accelerated mining activities have increased water contamination with potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and their associated human health risk in developing countries. The current study investigated the distribution of PTEs, their potential sources and health risk assessment in both ground and surface water sources in mining and non–mining areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Water samples (n=150) were taken from selected sites and were analyzed for six PTEs (Ni, Cr, Zn, Cu, Pb and Mn). Among PTEs, Cr showed high mean concentration (497) μg L–1, followed by Zn (414) μg L–1 in mining area, while Zn showed lowest mean value (4.44) μg L–1 in non-mining areas. Elevated concentrations of Ni, Cr and moderate level of Pb in ground and surface water of Mohmand District exceeded the permissible limits set by WHO (2017). Multivariate statistical analyses showed that pollution sources of PTEs were mainly from mafic-ultramafic rocks, acid mine drainage, open dumping of mine-wastes and mine tailings. The hazard quotient (HQ) was highest for children relatively to adults, but not higher than the US-EPA limits. The hazard index (HI) for ingestions of all selected PTEs were lower than the threshold value (HIing <1), except Mohmand District which showed (HI >1) in mining areas through ingestion. Moreover, the carcinogenic risk (CR) values exceeded the threshold limits for Ni and Cr set by the US-EPA (1.0E−04 to 1.0E−06). In order to protect the drinking water sources of the study areas from more contamination, the management techniques and policy for mining operations need to be implemented.
Potential Contribution of the Uterine Microbiome in Early Missed Abortion
Authors: shu junjun , Lin ShiXin , Wu Yu , Gong Dan , Zou Xia , Zhu Hong , Gao Jun
Published: July 2021

BackgroundMissed abortion is a kind of pregnancy failure caused by various reasons. The etiology is complicated, and the incidence of miscarriage is increasing in recent years. Previous studies shown microbiota contributes to multi-systemic function, whereas the relationship between microbiota and early missed abortion remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the composition of uterine microbiota in missed abortion and the potential role.MethodsWe enrolled 19 patients diagnosed with missed abortion and 12 healthy pregnant who subsequently had 6-8th week pregnant. All samples were taken from the endometrial fluid by a special disposable endometrial sampler. After samples were collected, DNA was extracted and amplified. The high-throughput next-generation sequencing (MiSeq) of the 16S rDNA V3-V4 region was used to identify the present of microbiota. The α-diversity of microbiota data was used to reflect species richness and evenness within bacterial populations, β-diversity was used to reflect the shared diversity between bacterial populations, and Nonmetric Multidimensional Scaling based on Weighted Unifrac distance. Statistical was determined by use of multiple testing, including the generalized mixed-effects model.ResultsThe microbiome sequencing (16S rDNA V3-V4 region) revealed that low abundance microbiome was detected in uterine cavity of patients with missed abortion and normal pregnancy. The diversity of intrauterine microflora in patients with missed abortion was higher than that in patients with induced abortion in normal pregnancy. There was no significant difference in alpha diversity between the two groups, but a significant difference was observed in beta diversity. PCoA moment array analysis did not show significant differences. Proteobacteria and Firmicutes in missed abortion patients were significantly more than those in normal pregnancy group.ConclusionThere are low abundance of microflora in uterine cavity of missed abortion patients, and the diversity of microflora is higher than that of normal pregnancy patients. Also, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes may be potential biological markers in missed abortion. New observations may prompt further investigations to understand the potential mechanism of microbiology on pathologic human pregnancy in the future.SubjectsMicrobiology, Molecular Biology, Gynecology and Obstetrics, missed abortion, Female Reproductive Tract,
Trend Analysis of Regulatory Approval Pathways and Major Shifts in Pivotal Clinical Trial Designs for Antineoplastic Drugs Approved by the Japanese Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) From 2004 to 2019.
Authors: Hirai Takehiro , Suzuki Asuka , Yamori Takao , Matsuura Masaaki
Published: July 2021

BackgroundThe Japanese Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) was established in 2004. Since then, various pieces of legislation, notices, and guidelines have been issued, and the regulatory approval pathways for domestic drugs have been diversified. However, the effects of these measures have not been fully examined. We examined the impact of these measures on the approval of antineoplastic drugs and the design of pivotal clinical trials for efficacy assessment by the PMDA. MethodsWe collected data on the antineoplastic drugs approved by the PMDA in fiscal years 2004–2019. We extracted the approval review pathways and the pivotal clinical trial designs from the PMDA review reports, and analyzed them to identify patterns. ResultsIn total, 387 indications in oncology were approved by the PMDA in fiscal years 2004–2019, or 365 indications excluding multiple regulatory pathways. The number of approved indications generally increased year on year (p < 0.001). The largest number of approved indications was under the Orphan Drug Designation (31%, 114/365) and this continues to increase (p < 0.001). In the 288 indications for which clinical trial data were submitted for review, the pivotal clinical trial designs changed significantly (p < 0.001) after the guideline on clinical evaluation for antineoplastic drugs was revised in 2006. ConclusionThe number of indications in oncology approved by the PMDA has been increasing over the past 16 years, alongside changes in regulatory pathways. The 2006 guideline on clinical evaluation had a particular impact on pivotal clinical trial designs.
A scenario analysis of Chinese Carbon Neutral based on STIRPAT & System Dynamic model
Authors: Wen Lei , Zhang Jie , Li Zhao
Published: July 2021

With the statement of Chinese government on energy saving in 2020 at the United Nations General Assembly, carbon neutral was widely spread as a new concept. As a big country, China has the responsibility and obligation to make its own contribution to global climate change. This paper aims to explore and find effective ways for China to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. We identify the main factors affecting carbon emissions by STIRPAT model, combined with the scenarios analysis we divide the year 2020 to 2060 into three stages： year 2020-2030 is Carbon Peak stage, year 2030-2050 is Rapid Emission Reduction stage, year 2050-2060 is Complete Carbon Neutralization stage. At each stage, three development models, high, medium and low level, were established. A total of 27 different scenarios in three stages. A system dynamics model was established to simulate the effects of carbon emission factors and changes in carbon sinks in different scenarios. Finally, 8 paths were found which in line with Chinese current goal of achieving carbon neutrality with treating reach Carbon peak in 2030 as an additional filter condition. Comparing per capita GDP levels in different scenarios, we eventually find that keep economic development at a low level in the first stage, a high level in the second stage and a medium level in the finally stage, the point where net carbon emissions are less than zero for the first time will appear between year 2056-2057.By then, the per capita GDP will reach 144,500 yuan (based on year 2000), nearly four times 2000’s. In all, these findings are helpful for policymakers to implement reasonable policies to achieve carbon emission peaking & carbon neutral in China.
Planar photonic chips with tailored angular transmission for high-contrast-imaging devices
Authors: Kuai Yan , Chen Junxue , Zou Gang , Lakowicz Joseph , Zhang Douguo
Published: July 2021

A limitation of standard brightfield microscopy is its low contrast images, especially for thin specimens of weak absorption, and biological species with refractive indices very close in value to that of their surroundings. Here, we demonstrate, using a planar photonic chip with tailored angular transmission as the sample substrate, a standard brightfield microscopy can provide both darkfield and total internal reflection (TIR) microscopy images with one experimental configuration. The image contrast is enhanced without altering the specimens and the microscope configurations. This planar chip consists of several multilayer sections with designed photonic band gaps and a central region with dielectric nanoparticles, which does not require top-down nanofabrication and can be fabricated in a large scale. The photonic chip eliminates the need for a bulky condenser or special objective to realize darkfield or TIR illumination. Thus, it can work as a miniaturized high-contrast-imaging device for the developments of versatile and compact microscopes.
Investigation of the Pathophysiology of the Retina and Choroid in Parkinson's Disease by Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Kamata Yasuaki , Hara Naoto , Satou Tsukasa , Niida Takahiro , Mukuno Kazuo
Published: July 2021

PurposeThe pathology of Parkinson's disease (PD) is suspected to affect the retina and choroid. We investigated changes in the retina and choroid of patients with PD using optical coherence tomography (OCT).MethodsWe examined 14 patients with PD and 22 patients without PD. Patients without PD had no ophthalmic pathology other than cataracts and neurodegenerative disorders. The retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell layer + inner plexiform layer, and choroidal thickness were compared between both groups. Additionally, the choroidal image was divided into the choroid area, luminal area, and interstitial area using the binarization method, and the area of each region and the percentage of luminal area in the choroid area was analyzed. ResultsPatients with PD had a significantly thinner ganglion cell layer + inner plexiform layer compared to those without PD. The choroid area, luminal area, and interstitial area were significantly decreased in patients with PD compared to those without PD. Seven patients with PD who were successfully followed-up for 3 years showed decreased retinal nerve fiber layer and interstitial area after 3 years.ConclusionAutonomic nervous disorders and neurodegeneration in PD can cause thinning of the retina and choroid, as well as a reduction of the choroid area.
Phytate Exudation by the Roots of Pteris Vittata Can Dissolve Colloidal Fepo4
Authors: khan Sangar , Milham Paul J. , Eltohamy Kamel Mohamed , Jin Yingbing , Wang Ziwan , Liang Xinqiang
Published: July 2021

Phosphorus (P) is limiting nutrient in soil system. The P availability in soil strongly depend on Iron (Fe) speciation. Colloidal iron phosphate (FePO4coll) is an important phosphorus (P) fraction in soil solution that carry P from soil to water bodies. This study tested the hypothesis that phytate exudation by Pteris vittata (P. vittata) can dissolve FePO4coll that leads to release of P and Fe. The phytate exudation in P. vittata increased from 434−2136 mg kg−1 as the FePO4coll concentration increased from 0−300 mM. The total P in P. vittata tissue increased from 2.88 to 8.28 g kg−1, the trichloroacetic acid P fractions (TCA fractions) were: inorganic P (0.86–5.10 mg g−1), soluble organic P (0.25–0.87 mg g−1), and insoluble organic P (0.16–2.03 mg g−1) which leads to higher biomass as FePO4coll increased from 0−300 mM. The linear regression analysis showed that FePO4 solubilizing activity has a positive correlation with TP, TCA P fractions in P. vittata, TP in growth media, and root exudates. This study shows that phytate exudation dissolved the FePO4coll due to the chelation effect of phytic acid on Fe, and due to the high Fe–P solubilizing activity in root exudates of P. vittata.
Sustainable Groundwater Management in A Two-Cell Aquifer Model
Authors: Augeraud Emmanuelle , Pereau Jean Christophe
Published: July 2021

The design of optimal water policies between farmers, municipalities and groundwaterdependent ecosystem is analysed in a hydro-economic model with physical interactions between a confined aquifer and a shallow aquifer having a natural drainage. Based on the Pecos Basin case study, we analyse the optimal trajectories of the water tables and the water allocation between users and environment flows for the ecosystems. We also explore the consequences for the water manager to use a one-cell model instead of the two-cell model. Our results show the importance to consider hydraulic conductivities for the preservation of groundwater-dependent ecosystems.
Method of Extracting Fetal QRS for Single-Lead Abdominal ECG Signal Based On Combined Compressive Sensing and Clustering Analysis
Authors: Dong Yapeng , Ju Wenbo , Hu Jiancheng , Hu Lijuan , Ding Dayu , Yang Bo
Published: July 2021

Objective: The fetal electrocardiogram (ECG) is an objective index that reflects a fetus’s health status. Non-invasive abdominal ECG (aECG) was obtained by placing silicone electrodes on pregnant women’s abdominal wall. However, fetal QRS (fQRS) extraction is very challenging due to maternal ECG interference, motion artifacts, and other noise. Approach: This paper introduces a new single-lead non-invasive fQRS extraction method based on compressive sensing and clustering analysis. This method can be applied to portable, low-power remote fetal ECG (fECG) acquisition equipment based on the Internet of Things (IoT). It is mainly divided into the following steps: (1) optimal component extraction of single-channel signal based on compressive sensing theory; (2) location of maternal QRS (mQRS) using the clustering method based on extreme value; (3) maternal ECG (mECG) elimination; (4) The preliminary location of fQRS based on double clustering and the correction of fQRS based on fetal RR interval. Main results: The new algorithm proposed in this paper is verified on two publicly available data sets. The averages of these indicators are Se=98.53%, PPV=98.28%, ACC=96.95%, F1=98.43% for the Silesia datasets and Se=97.59%, PPV=97.63%, ACC=95.44%, F1=97.62% for the Challenge datasets A. Significance: The results show that it is feasible and reliable to locate fQRS from a single-channel aECG signal under the condition of reducing power consumption. It lays a foundation for implementing the low-power wireless transmission of fECG signal and remote fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring based on the IoT.
Predictive Value of Matrix Metalloprotease 9 On Surgical Outcomes After Pericardiectomy
Authors: Fang Likui , Yu Wenfeng , Yu Guocan , Ye Bo , Chen Gang
Published: July 2021

Background
The effects of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) expressions on the patients with constrictive pericarditis undergoing pericardiectomy remain unclear. This study explored the associations of MMPs and TIMPs expressions with postoperative outcomes in these patients.
Methods
Pericardial specimens were obtained during pericardiectomy from the patients with constrictive pericarditis. The levels of MMP1, MMP2, MMP9 and TIMP1 in pericardium were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The enrolled patients were divided into two groups according to the optimal cutoff value of gene expression predicting postoperative complications. Postoperative outcomes were compared between the two groups. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the degree of contribution of gene expression on postoperative outcomes.
Results
A total of 22 patients and their pericardial specimens were included. The level of MMP9 was significantly associated with postoperative complications and the optimal cutoff value predicting postoperative complications was 3.67. The patients with low level of MMP9 (< 3.67) had lower incidence of postoperative complications (P = 0.002), shorter postoperative intensive care unit (P = 0.040) and hospital stay (P = 0.043) in comparison to those with high level of MMP9 (≥ 3.67). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that high level of MMP9 increased risk of postoperative complications (OR, 27.096, 95%CI 1.166-629.886, P = 0.040).
Conclusions
High level of MMP9 in the pericardium was associated with poor postoperative outcomes and was the independent risk factor of postoperative complications. The level of MMP9 could be used as a potential marker for prediction of surgical outcomes.
The Distinct Disrupted Plasticity in Structural and Functional Network in Mild Stroke With Basal Ganglia Region Infarcts
Authors: Zhu Hua , Zuo Lijun , Zhu Wanlin , Jing Jing , Zhang Zhe , Ding Lingling , Wang Fengjuan , Jian Cheng , Wang Yongjun , Li Zixiao , Liu Tao
Published: July 2021

ObjectiveTo characterize brain structural and functional networks in post-stroke patients with or without cognitive impairment. MethodsGraph theory analysis was applied to diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) data and resting-state functional MRI (fMRI) data from 23 post-stroke patients with cognitive impairment (PSCI), 17 post-stroke patients without cognitive impairment (NPSCI), and 29 healthy controls (HC). Structural and functional connectivity between 90 cortical and subcortical brain regions was estimated and thresholded to construct a set of undirected graphs. Network-based statistics (NBS) was used to characterize altered connectivity patterns among the three groups. ResultsCompared to HC, the PSCI group demonstrated substantial reductions in all three types of connections - rich club, feeder, and local - in structural and functional networks. Specifically, in structural network analysis, reduced connections were observed within basal ganglia and basal ganglia-frontal networks, whereas in the functional network analysis, reduced connections were observed in fronto-parietal network (FPN) and cingulo-opercular networks (CON). Meanwhile, compared to HC, the NPSCI group demonstrated reductions in both feeder and local connections only within occipital area and occipital-temporal structural networks. ConclusionsThe findings of reduced structural connectivity in regions stemming from a basal ganglia core and reduced functional connectivity in FPN and CON may indicate a bottom-up cognitive impairment induced by stroke. Graph analysis and connectomics may aid clinical diagnosis and serve as potential imaging biomarkers for post-stroke patients with cognitive impairment.
Gene Expression Profile of HCAEC Cells Exposed to Serum From Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: Role of MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Rangel-López Angélica , Pérez-González Oscar , Juárez-Méndez Sergio , López-Romero Ricardo , Mata-Rocha Minerva , López-Sánchez Dulce María , Villegas-Ruiz Vanesa , Méndez-Tenorio Alfonso , Mejía-Aranguré Juan Manuel , Orihuela-Rodríguez Oscar , Álvarez-Aguilar Cleto , Majluf-Cruz Abraham , Amato-Martínez Dante , Paniagua-Sierra Ramón
Published: July 2021

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients have an elevated risk of cardiovascular (CV) complications including acute myocardial infarction (AMI); endothelial dysfunction and accumulation of uremic toxins have been associated with such CV-events. To explore which molecular pathways are involved in this CV-complication and the effects of the uremic serum on gene expression, an endothelial dysfunction model was studied through microarrays and pathway analysis. mRNA was isolated of human coronary arterial endothelial cells (HCAEC) primary cultures supplemented with 20% uremic serum from two groups of patients, USI: ESRD-patients; UCI: ESRD-AMI-patients. Affymetrix GeneChip® microarray and the LIMMA-package (Linear Models for Microarray Data) of the Bioconductor sofware17 was implemented to identify relevant DEGs between the two groups of uremic patients. Protein-protein interaction networks and pathway analysis were made to analyze the interaction and expression tendency of differentially expressed genes. 100 differentially expressed genes were identified from two data sets triggered by uremic state using bioinformatics, from 16,607. After in a new cohort, 30 genes were overexpressed in UCI group, which we identified 500 ontological genetic terms and one KEGG-pathway with p < 0.05. The metabolic pathway significantly represented was the MAPK signaling pathway. Network analysis showed six genes (PTGS2, SELE, ICAM1, HMOX1, EGR1, and TLR2) that represent potential markers for ESRD with AMI, as an approximation to their underlying mechanisms. The results obtained suggest that uremic toxins in patients with ESRD can alter HCAEC and modify the gene expression profile, which could have an impact on the development of cardiovascular complications in these patients.
Does Renewable Energy Use Enhance Exchange Rate Appreciation and Stable Rate of Inflation?
Authors: Deka Abraham , Cavusoglu Behiye , Dube Sindiso
Published: July 2021

The current study is aimed at investigating the causal link among the use of renewable energy, rate of currency exchange and the rate of inflation of Brazil with the ARDL model. The findings of the ECM show that in the long-run a bidirectional causal association between exchange rate and renewable energy of Brazil exists. This shows that the rate of currency exchange causes use of renewable energy, and the use of renewable energy causes the rate of currency exchange in Brazil. Inflation rate also causes renewable energy and exchange rate of Brazil in the long-run. The rate of adjustment to equilibrium is also very low, below 50%, indicating that it will take long to adjust to long-run equilibrium. In the short-run, we ascertain that renewable energy use in Brazil has a significant negative effect on the rate of currency exchange, showing that a rise in the use of renewable energy in Brazil significantly cause the exchange rate to appreciate. Thus, on top of lowering carbon-dioxide emissions and global warming effects, renewable energy use in Brazil significantly improves the currency’s value. Therefore, the use of renewable energy should be promoted and nations should shift to using renewable energy. This move will also encourage zero carbon in the future.
Association Between Ambient Air Pollution And Daily Hospital Visits For Cardiovascular Diseases In Wuhan, China: A Time-Series Analysis Based On Medical Insurance Data.
Authors: Meng Yongna , Liu Zhihui , Hao Jiayuan , Tao Fengxi , Zhang Huihui , Liu Yuehua , Liu Suyang
Published: July 2021

Although a large number of studies have proved the adverse effects of exposure to air pollution on cardiovascular disease, few studies have done such research focusing on the medically insured population, a group of relatively healthier people representing the working population. We used generalized additive model (GAM) to estimate the short-term effects of ambient air pollution on CVDs in Wuhan, China. We extracted daily air pollution data, meteorological data, and daily hospital visits for CVDs (including hypertension, coronary heart disease [CHD], and heart disease [HD]) from November 1st, 2013 to October 31st, 2018. For each increase of 10 μg/m3 in SO2, NO2, PM10, and PM2.5, the relative risks (RRs) of daily hospital visits for hypertension increased by 3.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8%, 5.9%), 2.5% (95% CI: 1.9%, 3.2%), 0.5% (95% CI: 0.2%, 0.7%), and 0.7% (95% CI: 0.3%, 1.1%) at lag 0, respectively; For CHD, the RRs increased by 3.6% (95% CI: 1.8%, 5.5%), 2.6% (95% CI: 1.9%, 3.4%), 0.4% (95% CI: 0.1%, 0.7%), and 0.5% (95% CI: 0.1%, 0.9%) at lag 0, respectively; For HD, the RRs increased by 3.6% (95%CI: 1.4%, 5.8%), 2.1% (95%CI: 1.4%, 2.7%), 0.3% (95%CI: 0.1%, 0.6%), and 0.4% (95%CI: 0, 0.8%) at lag 0, respectively. We found that the influence of air pollution on daily hospital visits for CVDs is greater in the cold season than in the warm season. The results indicate that NO2 and SO2 may be potential confounders for co-pollutants in the multi-pollutant model. In conclusion, air pollutants including SO2, NO2, PM10, and PM2.5 may be associated with the risk of hypertension, CHD, and HD. Our findings not only can be used as reference for studying the financing and the allocation of medical resources in the future, but also served as a piece of evidence that supports the policymaking on air pollution and CVDs.
Evaluation of the Correlation Between Depression and Physical Activity Among Elderly Patients with Osteoporosis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Shi Linjun , Deng Xuexue , Zhou Xiaoping , Liu Wenjing , Gao Yueshan , Fang Ronghua
Published: July 2021

Background: Depression and osteoporosis are two chronic diseases that affect many people and have a significant impact on incidence, mortality, and quality of life. An association between osteoporosis and depression has been described in the literature. However, few studies have reported the correlation between depression and physical activity in elderly patients with osteoporosis in China.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 1, 2020, to January 29, 2021. Eligible participants were aged ≥60 years and identified as having osteoporosis. One hundred and seventy-three patients were recruited in the outpatient department of West China Hospital. A self-designed demographic data questionnaire, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS), and physical activity scale in the elderly (PASE) were used to evaluate anxiety and depression status and physical activity of the participants. Multivariate linear regression was performed to evaluate the factors affecting physical activity. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation among physical activity, anxiety, and depression in elderly patients with osteoporosis.Results: Of the 173 participants with osteoporosis, 114 (65.9%) were aged 60-75 years. The physical activity scores were 78.17±3.03.131 (75.72%) for participants with anxiety and 122 (70.52%) for participants with depression. Multiple linear regression showed that age, education, smoking, participation in social activity, activity of daily life, frailty phenotype, SAS, and SDS were independent risk factors for physical activity in elderly patients with osteoporosis. Physical activity was negatively correlated with anxiety and depression. This means that the higher the physical activity score was, the lower the incidence of anxiety and depression.Conclusions: We found that anxiety and depression were prevalent, and physical activity was negatively correlated with anxiety and depression in elderly patients with osteoporosis in China. Medical staff should focus on the factors that influence anxiety and depression among elderly patients with osteoporosis and reduce the incidence of anxiety and depression.
Keqinzhangia Aquatica Gen. et sp. nov. And Pseudocoronospora Hainanense gen. et sp. nov., Isolated From Freshwater In Southern China
Authors: Zheng Hua , Qiao Min , Guo Jishu , Castañeda-Ruiz Rafael F. , Peng Jie , Yu Zefen
Published: July 2021

During the investigation of the diversity of aquatic hyphomycetes from southern China, two interesting isolates were collected. Then, the two isolates were cultured and sequenced, and a BLAST search of its LSU sequences against data in GenBank revealed that the closest related taxa in the genus Microthyrium. Phylogenetic analyses, based on the combined sequence data from the small and large nuclear subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU and LSU), revealed that our isolates belong to the Microthyriaceae. Combined morphological characters, we finally described our isolates as two new genera and species in Microthyriaceae, named as: Keqinzhangia aquatica and Pseudocoronospora hainanense. The full descriptions, illustrations and a phylogenetic tree showing the position of the two new genera were provided in this paper.
Cancer Stem Cell Regulated Phenotypic Plasticity Protects Metastasized Cancer Cells from Ferroptosis
Authors: Wu Mingming , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Weijie , Chiou Yi Shiou , Qian Wenchang , Liu Xiangtian , Zhang Min , Yan Hong , Li Shilan , Li Tao , Han Xinghua , Qian Pengxu , Liu Suling , Pan Yue-yin , Lobie Peter , Zhu Tao
Published: July 2021

Cancer cells display phenotypic equilibrium between the stem-like and differentiated states during neoplastic homeostasis. The functional and mechanistic implications of this subpopulation plasticity remain largely unknown. Herein, it was demonstrated that the breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) secretome autonomously compressed the stem cell population. Co-implantation with BCSCs decreased the tumor-initiating capacity yet increased metastasis of accompanying cancer cells, wherein DKK1 was identified as a pivotal factor secreted by BCSCs for such functions. DKK1-promoted differentiation was indispensable for disseminated tumor cell metastatic outgrowth. In contrast, DKK1 inhibitors substantially relieved the metastatic burden by restraining metastatic cells in the dormant state. DKK1 increased the expression of SLC7A11 to protect metastasizing cancer cells from lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis. Combined treatment with ferroptosis inducer and DKK1 inhibitor exhibited synergistic effects in diminishing metastasis. Hence, this study deciphers the contribution of CSC-regulated phenotypic plasticity in metastatic colonization and provides therapeutic approaches to limit metastatic outgrowth.
Polygenic profiles define aspects of clinical heterogeneity in ADHD
Authors: Schork Andrew , LaBianca Sonja , Brickell Isabell , Helenius Dorte , Loughnan Robert , Mefford Joel , Palmer Clare , Walker Rebecca , Gådin Jesper , Krebs Morten , Appadurai Vivek , Vaez Morteza , Agerbo Esben , Pedersen Marianne Giørtz , Børglum Anders , Hougaard David , Mors Ole , Nordentoft Merete , Mortensen Preben , Kendler Kenneth , Jernigan Terry , Geschwind Daniel , Ingason Andres , Dahl Andy , Zaitlen Noah , Dalsgaard Søren , Werge Thomas
Published: July 2021

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex disorder with heterogeneous clinical presentations that manifest variability in long-term outcomes. The genetic contributions to this clinical heterogeneity, however, are not well understood. Here, we study 14 084 individuals diagnosed with ADHD to identify several genetic factors underlying clinical heterogeneity. One genome-wide significant locus was specifically associated with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis among individuals diagnosed with ADHD and it was not previously associated with ASD nor ADHD, individually. We used a novel approach to compare profiles of polygenic scores for groups of individuals diagnosed with ADHD and uncovered robust evidence that biology is an important factor in on-going clinical debates. Specifically, individuals diagnosed with ASD and ADHD, substance use disorder (SUD) and ADHD, or first diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood had different profiles of polygenic scores for ADHD and multiple other psychiatric, cognitive, and socio-behavioral traits. A polygene overlap between an ASD diagnosis in ADHD and cognitive performance was replicated in an independent, typically developing cohort. Our unique approach uncovered evidence of genetic heterogeneity in a widely studied complex disorder, allowing for timely contributions to the understanding of ADHD etiology and providing a model for similar studies of other disorders.
Effect of Hemadsorption in Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19 (CYTOCOV-19): A Prospective Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Jarczak Dominik , Roedl Kevin , Fischer Marlene , de Heer Geraldine , Burdelski Christoph , Frings Daniel Peter , Sensen Barbara , Boenisch Olaf , Tariparast Adel , Kluge Stefan , Nierhaus Axel
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Immunomodulatory therapies have shown beneficial effects in patients with severe COVID-19. Patients with hypercytokinemia might benefit from removal of inflammatory mediators via hemadsorption.Methods: Single-center prospective randomized trial at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (Germany). Patients with confirmed COVID-19, refractory shock (norepinephrine ≥0.2 μg/kg/min to maintain a mean arterial pressure ≥ 65 mmHg), IL-6≥500 ng/l and an indication for renal replacement therapy (RRT) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) were included. Patients received either hemadsorption therapy (HT) or standard medical therapy (SMT). For HT, a CytoSorb® adsorber was used for up to 5 days and was replaced every 18–24 hours. The primary endpoint was sustained hemodynamic improvement (norepinephrine ≤0.05 µg/kg/min≥24h). Secondary endpoints included 28-day mortality, SOFA, and reduction of IL-6, PCT, and MR-proADM. Results: Of 242 screened patients, 24 were randomized and assigned to either HT (N=12) or SMT (N=12). Both groups had similar severity as assessed by SAPS II (median 75 points HT group vs. 79 SMT group, p=0.590) and SOFA (17 vs. 16, p=0.551). At randomization, 22 (92%) patients were on RRT and 11 (46%) had vv-ECMO. Median IL-6 levels were 2269 (IQR 948–3679) and 3747 (1301–5415) ng/l in the HT and SMT group at baseline, respectively (p=0.378). Serum IL-6 reduction in the first 24h of treatment compared between both groups was 83% vs. 46% (p=0.235). Shock resolution (primary endpoint) was reached in 33% (4/12) vs. 17% (2/12) in the HT and SMT group, respectively (p=0.640). 28-day mortality was 58% (7/12) in the HT compared to 67% (8/12) in the SMT group (p=1.0).Conclusion: HT was associated with a non-significant trend towards clinical improvement within the intervention period including reduction of IL-6 levels and shock resolution. In selected patients, HT might therefore be an option for stabilization and bridge to transfer and decision. (Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04344080, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04344080, trial registration date 04/14/2020)]
Incidence and Risk Factors for Urolithiasis Recurrence After Endourological Management of Kidney Stones: A Retrospective Single-Centre Study
Authors: Baowaidan Faris , Zugail Ahmed S. , Lyoubi Youssef , Culty Thibaut , Lebdai Souhil , Brassart Elena , Bigot Pierre , Azzouzi Abdel Rahmene
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Almost half of the patients have had recurrent nephrolithiasis despite undergoing effective treatment. Our objective is to determine the recurrence rate of lithiasis after endourological management of nephrolithiasis and identify the risk factors for these recurrences.Methods: Data were gathered retrospectively from all patients who were treated for nephrolithiasis by endourological management from May 2014 to January 2017 in our university hospital. All patients who had postoperative renal colic and/or stone upon an imaging study were considered to have recurrent disease. The patients were devised into two groups: with and without recurrence. Many variables were also compared between these two groups.Results: A total of 190 patients were included in our study. At the end of a median follow-up of 32 months (range, 13–61 months), 25.8% of patients had a recurrent stone. In the multivariate analysis, the risk factors for recurrence were diabetes (HR: 7.9; p <0.001) and smoking (HR: 3.5; p <0.029). While the body mass index greater than 25 kg/m2 (HR: 2; p <0.05) appears as a risk factor for recurrence only in the univariate analysis. However, age (HR: 0.96; p <0.003) and blood hypertension (HR: 0.37; p <0.027) were protective factors. The stone characteristics, urological history, and alcoholism had no apparent effect on stone recurrence.Conclusion: Stone recurrence is common after the management of urinary stones. In this study 25.8% of patients had recurred stone disease after endourological management with a median follow-up of 32 months. Our study findings showed that diabetes and smoking are risk factors for recurrence, while age and blood hypertension are protective factors that decreased the risk of recurrence.
Emotional Dysregulation And Quality of Life In Young Adults With ADHD- A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Cohen Maayan Ben Dor , Eldar Eran , Maeir Adina , Nahun Mor
Published: July 2021

Objective: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with emotional dysregulation (ED) and impaired quality of life (QoL). However, the role of ED in explaining the relationship between ADHD and QoL is unclear. The purpose of the present study was to do so in a sample of non-referred young adults with and without ADHD.Method: The study design was cross-sectional. A non-clinical sample of 62 young adults with ADHD (mean age = 24.86 years, SD = 3.25) and 69 controls (mean age = 23.84 years, SD = 2.59) were recruited. The Adult ADHD Quality-of-Life scale was used to measure QoL; The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale was used to measure ADHD symptoms. The Self-Report Wender-Reimherr Adult Attention Deficit Disorder Scale and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale were used to measure ED. Group differences on all measures were tested using univariate and multivariate analyses of covariance, while controlling for age. Univariate analyses of variance were conducted to investigate the possible effect of medication on all outcome measures in the ADHD group. Finally, a moderation analysis was used in order to examine the impact of ED on QoL beyond that accounted for by ADHD symptoms.Results: Both QoL and ED were significantly worse for the ADHD group compared to the control group. The medication status of the ADHD group participants had no significant effect on the level of ADHD symptoms, ED or QoL. ED moderated the effect of ADHD symptoms on QoL for the ADHD group.Conclusion: The findings support the centrality of ED in ADHD and its crucial influence on QoL. Young adults with ADHD and high levels of ED are at risk for aversive impact on their well-being regardless of their ADHD symptoms level.
Multi-fault Diagnosis of Rolling Bearing using Two-dimensional Feature Vector of WP-VMD and PSO-KELM Algorithm
Authors: jiang tingyu , Hong Sheng , Liu Hao
Published: July 2021

In order to achieve accurate fault diagnosis of rolling bearing under random noise, a new fault diagnosis method based on wavelet packet-variational mode decomposition (WP-VMD) and kernel extreme learning machine (KELM) optimized by particle swarm optimization (PSO) is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the time-frequency domain feature vectors of the original rolling bearing fault signals are effectively obtained by preprocessing of WMD and decomposition and reconstruction of VMD. Then, the extracted two-dimensional feature vector is input into the KELM neural network for fault identification, and combined with PSO, KELM parameters were optimized. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively diagnose the rolling bearing under random noise, with the features of fast speed, stable performance and high accuracy. By comparison, this paper obtains better accuracy and real-time performance with fewer features, which provides a simple and efficient solution for fault diagnosis of rolling bearings.
Substance Use Among Students of Arba Minch University, College of Medicine and Health Science; Prevalence, Associated Factors and Its Relation With Academic Performance, 2018: a Cros-sectional Study.
Authors: Hailu Meron , Alamirew Birhanu , Daniel Beniam
Published: July 2021

Background: Substance abuse has become the major health and health related behavioral problem worldwide. Substance related problems occur in most segments of most societies mainly in the youth. They result in decreased work and school performance, accidents, absenteeism, violent crime, and theft. The objective of this study was to assess the status of substance use and its effect on the academic performance among students of Arba Minch University, Ethiopia.Methods: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted on 510 university students. Semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the desired information. Data was analyzed using SPSS V. 23 statistical software. Descriptive statistics, binary logistics regression and multinomial regression were employed. Independent sample t-test was also used to indicate the effect of substance use on academic performance.Results: The data was collected from 498 students making a response rate of 97.6%. The overall proportion of students with substance use was 21.3% and among them, the current prevalence was 79.2%. Being Male and having family member or a friend who uses substance were associated with substance use. The results show that, substance users have a lower mean CGPA than non-substance users.Conclusion: The study revealed the prevalence of substance use among the youth to be comparable with other studies conducted the country and that the problem is as worrisome as it is everywhere else. The findings also indicated a negative association between substance use and academic performance.
Posterior Corneal Elevation Changes and Characteristic Analysis 1 Year After Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking for Keratoconus
Authors: Li Jing , Wei Shengsheng , Zhang Yaohua , Yang Dan , Tian Zhen , Du Jing , Li Yong , Liu Jianguo , Wang Yan
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the changes in posterior corneal elevations (PCEs) in the circular areas and local points after corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) for the treatment of keratoconus.Methods: Method 1 divided the cornea into 0–2, 2–4, 4–6, and 6–8 mm regions centering on the apex. Method 2 obtained other 34 PCE values of local point that were identified on the nasal, supra-nasal, sub-nasal, superior, inferior, temporal, supra-temporal, and sub-temporal sides of the circle with diameters of 2, 4, 6, and 8 mm, and the apex and thinnest point.Results: Method 1 showed a forward displacement of PCE at 1 month after CXL and then a backward displacement at 3 months. In Method 2, the points on the temporal side of 2 mm and 4 mm showed the same trend. The backward displacements of PCE on the temporal side of 2 mm at 6 months and on the temporal side of 4 mm at 12 months after CXL were both statistically different than those at 1 month after CXL (P < 0.05). The PCE of the thinnest point was correlated with other corneal points, except the points on the nasal and sub-nasal sides of 4 mm.Conclusion: The PCEs in circular areas and characteristic points of different diameters in keratoconic eyes after CXL change with time. Local point assessment of the PCE is more clinically significant. In points selected in different quadrants of the cornea, the change in temporal points was more significant after CXL.