bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Study tool to Assess Gaps in Respectful Maternity Care in Health Facilities of India
Authors: Singh Shalini , Gogoi Aparajita , Caleb-Varkey Leila , Manoranjini Mercy , Ravi Tina , Rawat Deewanshi , Goel Richa
Published: February 2021

Background: Maternal mortality perdures to be a major challenge for India like in other developing countries. Though the efforts to increase the institutional deliveries have resulted in appreciable results, it has not translated to the corresponding decline in maternal mortality rates. Dearth in quality of care especially concerning respectful maternity care in health facilities is considered as a major reason for this phenomenon. This work describes the development process of the study tool to assess respectful maternity care in the health facilities of India. Methods: A collaborative approach was employed for the development of a comprehensive tool to be used to assess respectful maternity care in the Indian setting. The tool development process comprised of four steps: 1) literature review and meeting with Technical Advisory Group; 2) the National Stakeholders workshop and development of the initial tool; 3) feedback on the tool from twenty tertiary care public health facilities from various regions of India; 4) the final tool and its validity approval by Technical Advisory Group. Results: A comprehensive tool was made comprising of indicators for assessing deficits in respectful maternity care, and for assessing contextual data of the health care facility. The initial tool was tested at twenty facilities. The changes suggested and observed were adapted, and the final tool was prepared. The Technical Advisory Group approved the content validity of the tool.Conclusions: A comprehensive tool was made to assess various aspects of respectful maternity care provided in tertiary Indian institutional settings aiding in in a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. This tool is recommended, especially to health care providers of India, for assessing the status of maternity care in health facilities and bringing the required interventions in the health care facilities.
Comparison of syntax score and syntax score II to predict peri-procedural myocardial injury during percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Bayramoğlu Adil , Hidayet Şıho , Dereli Seçkin
Published: February 2021

Background

Peri-procedural myocardial infarction(PPI) is an increase in cardiac enzymes during percutaneous coronary intervention. The development of this condition is associated with a poor prognosis. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the development of PPI in patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention and the factors that predict patients who developed PPI.
Method:

A total of 160 consequtive patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into two groups as PPI developing and not developing PPI. The clinical characteristics, laboratory and angiographic features of groups were compared. The SS and SS II was calculated by using the online calculator.
Results

PPI was devoloped in 44 (27.5%) patients during PCI procedure. SS ,SSII, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), age were identified as independent predictors of PPI. A higher rate of PPI was observed in those with SSII over 35. When compaired of the ROC curves showed that area under curve of SS II was larger than that of SS (AUC 0.855 vs. 0.741, p = 0.039)
Conclusion

In the study; age GFR, SS and SSII were observed to be independent predictors of PPI. SSII may be a more useful tool than SS for prediction PPI during elective percutaneous coronary intervention.
Potential Distribution of Fall Armyworm in Africa and Beyond, Considering Climate Change and Irrigation Patterns
Authors: Timilsena Bipana Paudel , Niassy Saliou , Kimathi Emily , Abdel-Rahman Elfatih. M. , Seidl-Adams Irmgard , Wamalwa Mark , Tonnang Henri E. Z. , Ekesi Sunday , Hughes David P. , Rajotte Edwin G. , Subramanian Sevgan
Published: February 2021

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (FAW), first invaded Africa in 2016 and has since become established in many areas across the continent where it poses a serious threat to food and nutrition security. We re-parameterized the existing CLIMEX model to assess the FAW global invasion threat, emphasizing the risk of transient and permanent population establishment in Africa under current and predicted future climates, considering irrigation patterns. FAW can establish itself in almost all countries in eastern and central Africa and a large part of western Africa under the current climate. Climatic barriers, such as heat and dry stresses, may limit the spread of FAW to North and South Africa. Future predictions suggest that FAW invasive range will retract from both northern and southern regions towards the equator. However, a large area in eastern and central Africa is predicted to have an optimal climate for FAW persistence. These areas will serve as FAW ‘hotspots’ from where it may migrate to the north and south during winter seasons and then pose an economic threat. Our projections can be used to identify countries at risk for permanent and transient FAW-population establishment and inform timely integrated pest management interventions under present and future climate in Africa.
A systematic review protocol to explore the prevalence and impacts of neurodevelopmental disorders in the care experienced by looked after population
Authors: Heady Nicola Jane , Watkins Alan , John Ann , Hutchings Hayley
Published: February 2021

Background: Looked after children (LAC) placed in either a foster care, kinship, residential or adoption care settings continue to develop debilitating disorders that significantly impact their future overall wellbeing. Prevalence of these disorders are often depicted under broad categories such as mental, behavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Limited in research, is the prevalence of specific disorders that fall under these broad categories.NDDs such as autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which cannot be medically tested for and fall under an umbrella group in the current, expert field of genetics and neuropsychiatry will be explored. Unsupported, these disorders can lead to suboptimal health and social outcomes for both the child and family. In the general population, prevalence of these NDDs and impacts on health and social wellbeing are relatively well documented but for minority groups such as LAC; research is extremely limited. This review will aim to estimate the prevalence of NDDs in LAC and compare to those children who are not looked after. Additionally, it will identify if NDDs have any impact on the health and social wellbeing of this vulnerable group.Methods: This review will report in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. PubMed, ASSIA, IBSS, Web of Science, PsychINFO, Scopus, Psych articles, Social Care Online, secondary, grey literature and government publications will be searched to identify any eligible studies. No restrictions will be placed on age or design of publication. Eligible studies must include participants, 25 years of age or under and have confirmed diagnoses using standardised international diagnostic codes or tools. Odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals using the random-effects model will be utilised to analyse the data. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools will be utilised to assess quality and bias.Discussion: Attaining an estimated prevalence of these NDDs in the LAC group and identifying any impacts on health and social wellbeing will contribute to the existing but limited LAC literature. From a preventative perspective, the results will inform key stakeholders in health, educational and social sectors with important information to aid in safeguarding and meeting the unique needs of these vulnerable children.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO Registration number: CRD4201913103
Radical Resection of T3N2M0 Esophageal Cancer Under Bilateral Thoracoscopy: A Case Report
Authors: Gao Mingcheng , Zhu Yulin , Yan Gu , Shi Zhan , Chang Huiwen , Wu Jixiang , Song Jianxiang
Published: February 2021

Background: Many esophageal cancer patients with lymph node metastases during surgery are recommended for postoperative radiation therapy. However, postoperative radiation could cause many serious adverse reactions. Here, we introduce a new radical operation for esophageal cancer under bilateral thoracoscopy to reduce the adverse reactions of postoperative radiation.Case presentation: A 50-year-old man was diagnosed with Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by gastroscopy. Because the tumor was found to have obvious invasion and rapid pathology showed positive lymph nodes during the operation, which is in line with the postoperative chemotherapy indication, we adopted a bilateral thoracic approach for esophageal cancer to reduce adverse reactions of postoperative radiotherapy. We successfully guided the tubular stomach through the left thoracic aortic arch to the left thoracic cavity, and then performed an esophageal-tubular stomach anastomosis on the left neck under bilateral thoracoscopy to reduce radiation exposure to the remnant stomach. The operation went well.Conclusion: For patients with esophageal cancer who are found to have radiotherapy indications during the operation, bilateral thoracoscopic radical resection of esophageal cancer should be preferred during the operation to improve the postoperative radiotherapy effect.
Immunogenicity of Oral Vaccine Candidate in Recombinant Lactococcus lactis Expressing HBcAg and IFNα-2b for Hepatitis B Prevention
Authors: Mustopa Apon Zaenal , Meilina Lita , Budiarti Sri , Darusman Huda Shalahudin , Triratna Lita , Kusumawati Arizah , Sukmarini Linda , Mihardi Arief Purwo , Utami Dian
Published: February 2021

Background: Hepatitis B is a liver inflammation caused by virus infection leading to acute and chronic conditions. Antigenic compound of HBcAg could induce specific T and B cell that generating high immunity response rather than HBsAg. Therapeutic agent for hepatitis and cancer treatment which has been approved by USFDA is Interferon α-2b (IFNα-2b). This type of class I cytokine plays a role in inhibiting viral replication and modulating adaptive immune system. Objectives: In this study, we analyzed immunogenicity of recombinant HBcAg and IFNα-2b expressed in L. lactis NZ3900. Methods: In vivo test was carried out using female Balb/c mice. Antibody responses for oral immunization were quantified as total IgG using ELISA on days 21, 35 and 51. Safety compound of this oral vaccine candidate was also described by liver and spleen condition after immunization. The differential leukocyte counting was performed to confirm the inflammatory process. Results: Post immunization with L. lactis recombinant strains could induce optimum total humoral immune responses on day 35, with IgG concentration at 4.96±1.03 mg/mL. Single treatment with HBcAg was more potent in inducing immune response (IgG) rather than HBcAg-IFNa-2b combination. Immunization for 51 days could not alleviate animal body weight in each group. The maintaining IgG production until 51 days was just because lymphocytes activities persisted above 70%. The lymphocytes number which achieved 76.3% (P2) and 78.3% (P3) compared to Control group with 62%. Conclusion: Single treatment with recombinant HBcAg expressed in L. lactis NZ3900 was better inducing IgG production and maintaining for 51 days. This result suggested, L. lactis recombinant strain can be as potential vaccine candidate to induce immune response protecting from hepatitis B virus. Moreover, no organ damage was found in liver and spleen of Balb/c mice.
Application of a 2D hydrodynamic model for the assessment of the influencing factor in Xiangxi Bay of the Three Gorges Reservoir
Authors: DUTTA RANOJIT KUMAR , Das Baishakhi
Published: February 2021

A two-dimensional (2D), laterally averaged, hydrodynamic and water quality model, CE-QUAL-W2, was used to simulate the hydrodynamics and water temperatures of Xiangxi Bay (XXB) of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR). Algal blooms occurred seasonally in XXB which is influenced by density currents. The CE-QUAL-W2 model was calibrated using data collected in XXB from January to December 2010. The model was then used to examine the environmental factors that affect the density currents. The model predicted density currents such as overflows, interflows and underflows of the XXB. The results suggest that more than 25%, 58.33% and 16.67% of the density currents that occurred in the XXB were overflow, interflow and underflow, respectively. Field observations were conducted including travel distance and thickness of intrusion layer for 24 days in 2010. The average travel distance of overflow, interflow and underflow in XXB was 15.50 km, 8.78 km, and 9 km based on observations and 16 km, 9.40 km, 9.60 km based on the model results. Therefore, numerical simulations of density currents can be predicted to better understand the hydrodynamics and aquatic ecosystems in XXB of TGR.
Glycosylated Hemoglobin levels and the Risk for Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Diabetic Patients Undergoing Coronary arteriography/Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Zhang hong , Fu han , Zhang jing , Zhang peng , Yang shicheng , Fu xiaofeng , Zeng zhican , fu naikuan
Published: February 2021

Backgrounds: Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients undergoing Coronary arteriography (CAG)/percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is the gold standard to measure blood glucose control, which has important clinical significance for evaluating blood glucose control in diabetic patients in the past 3 months. This study aimed to evaluate whether preoperative hemoglobin a1c levels in diabetic patients who received CAG/PCI had an impact on the occurrence of postoperative CIN.Methods: We reviewed the incidence of preoperative HbA1c and postoperative CIN in 670 patients with CAG/PCI from January 1, 2020 to October 30, 2020, and divided the preoperative HbA1c levels into 5 groups. Blood samples were collected at admission, 48h and 72h after operation to measure the Scr value of patients. Categorical variables were compared using a chi-square test, and continuous variables were compared using an analysis of variance. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare the percentages when the expected frequency was less than 5. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to exclude the influence of confounding factors and P for trend was used to analyze the trend between HbA1c levels and the increased risk of CIN. Results: Patients with elevated HbA1c had higher BMI, FBG and LDL-C, and they were more often on therapy with hypoglycemic agents, Insulin and PCI. They also had higher basal, 24h and 48h Scr. (Table 1) The incidence of CIN in the 5 groups of patients were: 9.8%, 11.9%, 15.2%, 25.3%, 48.1%. (p<0.0001) The multivariate analysis confirmed that in the main high-risk subgroup, patients with elevated HbA1C levels (≥8.8%) had a higher risk of CIN disease. (Figure 2) Trend test showed the change of HR (1.000,1.248,1.553,2.625,5.829). (Table 2)Conclusions: Studies have shown that in diabetic patients undergoing CAG/PCI, elevated HbA1C is independently associated with the risk of CIN, and with the increase of HbA1C level, the incidence of CIN gradually increases.
Necessity for subsequent surgery in women of child-bearing age with positive margins after cold knife conization: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Xinmei , Xu Juan , Gao Yang , Qu Pengpeng
Published: February 2021

Background: Risk factors for positive margins and residual lesions after cold knife conization (CKC) for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CIN) were assessed in women of child-bearing age. A design for postoperative management and avoiding these situations is offered.Methods: This was a retrospective study on 1,309 premenopausal women with high-grade CIN (including CIN3 and CIN2) based on a cervical biopsy under colposcopy used to diagnose a positive or negative margin. Age, gravidity, parity, HPV species, cytology, transformation zone type, results of endocervical curettage (ECC), quadrant involvement, glandular involvement, and CIN grade were analyzed. Among those with positive margins, 245 underwent surgery within three months, including CKC, a loop electrosurgical excision procedure, and total hysterectomy. Residual lesions were also assessed.Results: There was no significant difference in age, gravidity, parity, glandular involvement, and CIN grade between the two groups (P>0.3). There was a significant difference in HPV species, cytology, ECC results, and quadrant involvement (P<0.002). Multivariate analysis showed a major cytology abnormality, high-risk HPV infection, type III transformation zone, positive ECC result, and multiple quadrant involvement were independent risk factors for positive margins and residual lesions (P<0.02). Age >35 years was also a risk factor (P<0.03).Conclusion: High-risk women should be treated appropriately considering fertility. Patients with positive margins should be managed uniquely. Surgery for women without fertility may be appropriate. Close follow-up is necessary for women who have fertility requirements or are unwilling to undergo subsequent surgery if they have no risk factors, especially for women <35 years.
Lysine-selective molecular tweezers are cell-penetrant and concentrate in lysosomes
Authors: Li Zizheng , Siddique Ibrar , Hadrović Inesa , Li Jiwen , Zhang Ye , Klärner Frank-Gerrit , Schrader Thomas , Bitan Gal
Published: February 2021

Lysine-selective molecular tweezers are promising drug candidates against proteinopathies and viral infection. Despite demonstration of their efficacy in multiple cellular and animal models, important questions regarding their mechanism of action, including cell penetrance and intracellular distribution, have not been answered to date. The main impediment to answering these questions has been the low intrinsic fluorescence of the main compound tested to date, called CLR01. Here, we address these questions using new fluorescently labeled molecular tweezers derivatives. We show that these compounds are internalized in neurons and astrocytes, at least partially through dynamin-dependent endocytosis. In addition, we demonstrate that the molecular tweezers concentrate rapidly in acidic compartments, primarily lysosomes. Accumulation of molecular tweezers in lysosomes may occur both through the endosomal-lysosomal pathway and via the autophagy-lysosome pathway. Moreover, by visualizing colocalization of molecular tweezers, lysosomes, and tau aggregates we show that lysosomes likely are the main site for the intracellular anti-amyloid activity of molecular tweezers. These findings have important implications for the mechanism of action of molecular tweezers in vivo, explaining how administration of low doses of the compounds achieves high effective concentrations where they are needed, and supporting the development of these compounds as drugs for currently cureless proteinopathies.
Identification of Differentially Expressed Proteins in the Serum of Minority Children With Epilepsy by iTRAQ-coupled LC-MS/MS and Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Liu Youjiang , Li Zhuoxian , Tang Zixi , Gong Wenhao , Chen Shasha , Qin Yaozhen , Ai Jun
Published: February 2021

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to screen differentially expressed proteins between minority children with epilepsy and healthy subjects using the iTRAQ8plex proteomics technique. The screening results were further used to identify specific signalling pathways and potential protein molecular markers of epilepsy in the Guangxi minority population. METHODS: Blood samples were collected from 17 epileptic children (experimental group) and 9 healthy children (control group) from ethnic minority groups. Quantitative proteomics with iTRAQ8plex markers was used to detect differentially expressed proteins between the two groups. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Gene and Genomic Encyclopedia (KEGG) pathway analyses were used to conduct functional annotation, functional enrichment analysis and clustering analysis based on functional enrichment. RESULTS: Compared to healthy subjects, a total of 113 differentially expressed proteins were identified in the serum of minority children with epilepsy (including 29 upregulated proteins and 74 downregulated proteins). The results of GO enrichment showed that the differentially expressed proteins were mainly involved in biological processes, such as immune system processes and acute phase reactions, and in cellular components, such as actin filaments and the immunoglobulin complex. The KEGG analysis results showed that the differentially expressed proteins were mainly involved in dilated cardiomyopathy and insulin secretion. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis showed that the key node proteins were serum α1-acid glycoprotein (AAG), platelet activating factor (PAF), actin, and serum albumin (ALB). CONCLUSION: iTRAQ8plex proteomics technology was able to identify the differential protein expression profiles of minority children with epilepsy and showed significant enrichment in various biological activities. TAGLN2, FGB and IGHA1 may be representative proteins associated with the ethnicity-specific characteristics of Zhuang and Yao people with epilepsy.
Predictive Nomogram of the in-Hospital Mortality of Patients with Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Tien Yu-Tzu , Chen Wen-Jone , Huang Chien-Hua , Chen Wei-Ting , Hung Chi-Sheng , Lin Jr-Jiun , Huang Ching-Chang , Chang Wei-Tien , Tsai Min-Shan
Published: February 2021

BackgroundDespite advances in treatment, the mortality rates of patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) remain high. The aim of this study was to develop a risk-predictive model for in-hospital mortality in patients admitted to the cardiac care unit (CCU) because of CS. Methods This retrospective study enrolled 509 adult patients who received inotropic support at the emergency room with subsequent admission to the CCU from January 2017 to December 2019. Patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, inotrope use for conduction disorders, and non-CS were excluded. A total of 246 patients were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. ResultsA history of coronary artery disease (OR 3.44), multiple inotropic use (OR 17.70), ejection fraction less than 40% (OR 0.27), longer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) duration (OR 1.11), albumin infusion (OR 4.66), and renal replacement therapy (OR 3.08) were associated with higher in-hospital mortality. These factors were used to develop a risk-predictive nomogram. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn using scores from 0 to 198.5 (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.92), and the cut-off score of 65 was identified. The model accurately predicted mortality (AUC = 0.81) in a validation set of 68 patients, with a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 74%. Conclusion Factors were used to develop a highly accurate risk-predictive nomogram for the in-hospital mortality of patients with CS, which may aid physicians in making prognoses.
The Efficacy of Albumin with Diuretics in the Mechanically Ventilated Patients with Hypoalbuminemia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Itagaki Yuki , Yoshida Naofumi , Banno Masahiro , Momosaki Ryo , Yamada Kohei , Hayakawa Mineji
Published: February 2021

Background Hypoalbuminemia is associated with fluid overload, the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome, and mortality. Co-administration of albumin and diuretics for treatment of patients with hypoalbuminemia is expected to increase urinary output, without hemodynamic instability, and improve pulmonary function; however, these effects have not been systematically investigated. Here, we aimed to clarify the benefits of co-administration of albumin and diuretics for mechanically ventilated patients.MethodsWe searched for randomized, placebo-controlled trials that investigated the effects of co-administration of albumin and diuretics compared with placebo and diuretics, in mechanically ventilated patients with hypoalbuminemia. We searched these trials via the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE via PubMed and EMBASE. Primary outcomes were hypotensive events after intervention, all-cause mortality, and the length of mechanical ventilation. Secondary outcomes were improvement in the ratio of partial pressure arterial oxygen and fraction of inspired oxygen (P/F ratio) at 24 h, total urine output (mL/d), and the clinical requirement of renal replacement therapy (RRT).ResultsAmong 1574 records identified, we included three studies for quantitative analysis. The results of albumin administration were as follows: hypotensive events [risk ratio (RR) -1.05 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.15 to 0.81], all-cause mortality [RR 1.0 (95% CI: 0.45 to 2.23], the length of mechanical ventilation in days [mean difference (MD) -1.05 (95% CI: -3.35 to 1.26)], improvement of P/F ratio [RR 2.83 (95% CI: 1.42 to 5.67)]. None of the randomized controlled trials reported the total urine output, whereas one reported that no participants required RRT. Adverse events were not reported during the trials. The certainty of evidence was low (in the hypotensive events after intervention, all-cause mortality) to moderate (in the length of mechanical ventilation in days, improvement of P/F ratio, clinical requirement of RRT, and adverse events).ConclusionsAlthough this treatment combination reduced the number of days for which mechanical ventilation was required, it did not reduce the all-cause mortality at 30 days. Taken together, co-administration of albumin and diuretics may reduce hypotensive events and improve the P/F ratio at 24 h.
Ophthalmic Emergency-Room Visits During The COVID-19 Pandemic – A Comparative Study
Authors: Yehezkeli Veronika , Rotenstreich Ygal , Haim Liron Naftali Ben , Sher Ifat , Achiron Asaf , Belkin Avner
Published: February 2021

Purpose: To compare ophthalmic emergency room (OER) visits during the COVID-19 pandemic to those during a control period.Methods: We compared all visits to the OER from March 15th to April 15th, 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic and government mandated quarantine, to the same period in 2019. Factors analyzed were patient demographics, chief complaints, referral patterns, exam findings, treatments given, hospitalizations and surgical interventions.Results: We included in this study 1311 visits of 1158 patients, 477 during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and 834 during the same period in 2019. The demographic distribution (age, gender, and ethnicity) was similar between the two periods. LogMAR visual acuity at presentation was worse during the COVID-19 pandemic (0.42±0.6 and 0.34±0.5 in 2020 and 2019 respectively; p=0.025) and the number of emergent surgeries was higher (3.8% in 2020 vs 1.8% in 2019, p=0.024). There was a higher likelihood of involvement of both segments of the eye (4.82% versus 1.2%, p<0.01) and more diagnoses were given to each patient (1±0.5 versus 0.93±0.35, p=0.001; During the COVID-19 pandemic medications (both topical and systemic) were prescribed more often (1.22±0.95 in 2020 and 0.84±0.67 in 2019, p < 0.001).Conclusions: OER visits were less frequent during the COVID-19 pandemic as compared to 2019, though the demographics of the patients remained unchanged. Visits during the pandemic tended to be for more severe ocular conditions and required more medical and surgical treatment. This analysis can aid healthcare resource management in similar scenarios in the future.
Different Diagnostic Performance of Fibrinogen and D-Dimer in Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Propensity Score Matched Study
Authors: Chen Xi , Qian Wenwei , Weng Xisheng , Lin Jin , Jin Jin , Wang Yiou , Zhu Shibai
Published: February 2021

Background: Fibrinogen(Fbg) and D-dimer were introduced as biomarkers for the diagnosis of PJI. However, previous researches have reported controversial outcome on the diagnostic value of D-dimer in comparison to Fbg, CRP and ESR.Aim: This study aims to: 1.Determine the optimal threshold of plasma Fbg and D-dimer in the diagnosis of PJI and compare their diagnostic value to that of CRP and ESR. 2.Investigate if Fbg and D-dimer performs differently than CRP and ESR in different types of PJI.Methods: 115 revision cases after total hip arthroplasty(THA) and total knee arthroplasty(TKA) were identified. 30 PJI cases were matched to 60 Aseptic cases based on demographic characteristics using propensity score matching. Sensitivity, Specificity, Receiver operating characteristics(ROC), Negative predictive value(NPV) and Positive predictive value(PPV) were calculated and compared.Results: The optimal threshold is 1.69 mg/L for D-dimer and 3.655g/L for Fbg. Plasma Fbg, D-dimer, CRP and ESR were significantly higher in the PJI group than the Aseptic group. Fbg, D-dimer, CRP and ESR showed sensitivity of 0.83, 0.67, 0.83 and 0.8 respectively and showed specificity of 0.87, 0.77, 0.92 and 0.82 respectively. ROC curve showed that CRP has the highest AUC(0.90), followed by Fbg(0.89), ESR(0.88) and D-dimer(0.77).Conclusion: Plasma Fbg exhibited similar diagnostic performance comparing to CRP and ESR. Plasma D-dimer is of limited diagnostic value. In our study, Fbg and D-dimer did not show better diagnostic performance in any subtypes of PJI. Further studies are required to investigate the difference between serum D-dimer and plasma D-dimer in arthroplasty population.
The Changing Health Convergence For Life Expectancy and Spatial Interactions
Authors: Rodríguez Irene González , Sáez Marta Pascual , Prieto David Cantarero
Published: February 2021

Background: Health convergence between the European Union countries and Spanish provinces is studied considering the spatial interactions among several territories. Health status measured through life expectancy in four ways: life expectancy at birth, life expectancy at age 65, disabilityadjusted life expectancy and healthy life expectancy based on self-perceived health. The period analyzed differs from one indicator to another, for the period 1998-2018. Methods: Two kinds of convergence are studied: σ-convergence, through standard deviation, and absolute β-convergence, estimating a determined regression. Furthermore, the Moran Test is performed in order to know the degree of spatial dependencies and two models of spatial regression (Spatial Lag Model and Spatial Error Model) are used to include these dependencies in the absolute β-convergence estimation. Results: Our findings suggest that there is a convergence process, both in σ and β, between the European Union countries and between the Spanish provinces. Therefore, dispersion is reduced, and growth rates have been higher where had lower life expectancy values at the beginning. On the other hand, β-convergence is higher in women among European countries and in men among Spanish provinces, whether we consider the model without spatial dependencies or the one which include them. Conclusion: In general, there have been convergence processes (both in sigma and beta) inside Europe and Spain. Otherwise, the rise of the dispersion means that there is not a clear evidence about the trend in the following period. This study has a double contribution. First, it provides an updated vision of the health convergence. Secondly, it contributes to consider spatial econometrics in Health Economics research. These insights can be considered to reduce health population inequalities.
Exploring The Association Between School-Based Peer Networks And Smoking According To Socioeconomic Status and Tobacco Control Context: A Systematic Review
Authors: Littlecott Hannah Jane , Moore GF , McCann Mark , Melendez-Torres G.J. , Mercken Liesbeth , Reed Hayley , Mann Mala , Dobbie Fiona , Hawkins Jemma
Published: February 2021

Background: Whilst prevalence of youth smoking in middle and high income countries has decreased, inequality has prevailed. The introduction of legislation regulating tobacco use in public spaces varies across countries, impacting the tobacco control context. There is a need to revisit our understandings of the influence of social networks on smoking among adolescents to inform subsequent exploration of this relationship and context-specific intervention design.Methods: The search, conducted on 31st May 2019, included terms relating to smoking, schools, adolescents, peers and social networks. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied throughout the title and abstract screening and full text screening. Quality assessment and synthesis followed. Studies were charted against a timeline and narratively synthesised to identify changes according to legislative context. This synthesis was conducted separately for findings relating to three categories: socioeconomic status; social selection and influence; and network position.Results: Thirty studies were included. Differences in the relationship between network characteristics and smoking according to socioeconomic status were measured in five out of fifteen studies in Europe. Results varied across studies, with differences in network characteristics and their association with smoking varying both between schools of a differing and those of a similar socioeconomic composition. For studies conducted both before and after the introduction of comprehensive smoking legislation, the evidence for selection processes was more consistent than influence, which varied according to reciprocity. Findings showed that isolates were more likely to smoke and in-degree and out-degree centrality were related to smoking both before and after the introduction of legislation. The relationship between popularity and smoking was contingent on school level smoking prevalence in studies conducted before the introduction of legislation, but not after. Conclusions: Overall, effects according to socioeconomic status were underreported in the included studies and no consistent evidence of change after the introduction of a comprehensive smoking ban was observed. Further network analyses are required utilising more recent data to obtain a comprehensive understanding of how network processes may influence smoking differently according to socioeconomic status after the introduction of a comprehensive smoking ban, and how adaptation could be used to enhance intervention effectiveness.International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) registration number: CRD42019137358
Sequential Non-Invasive Following Short-Term Invasive Mechanical Ventilation in the Treatment of Tuberculosis with Respiratory Failure: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Kang Nai-Min , Zhang Nan , Luo Bao-Jian , Wu En-Dong , Shi Jian-Quan , Li Liang
Published: February 2021

Background: Invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) have been combined as sequential MV (SMV) in the treatment of respiratory failure. However, the effectiveness remains unclear. Here, we performed a randomized controlled study to assess the efficacy and safety of SMV in the treatment of tuberculosis with respiratory failure.Methods. Forty-four tuberculosis patients diagnosed with respiratory failure were randomly divided into SMV group (n=24) and conventional MV (CMV) group (n=20). Initially, the patients in both groups received invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV). When the patients' conditions were relieved, the ventilation modality in SMV group was switched to oronasal face continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) until weaning. Results. After treatment, the patients in SMV group had similar respiratory rate, heart rate, oxygenation index, alveolo-arterial oxygen partial pressure difference (A-aDO2), blood pH, PaCO2 to those in CMV group (all P value>0.05). There was no significant difference in ventilation time and ICU stay between the two groups (P>0.05), but SMV group significantly reduced the time of invasive ventilation (mean difference (MD):-36.2 hrs,95% confidence interval (CI):-53.6,-18.8 hrs,P<0.001). SMV group also reduced the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP;relative risk (RR):0.44,95% CI:0.24,0.83,P=0.006) and atelectasis (RR:0.49,95% CI:0.24,1.00,P=0.040). Conclusions. SMV was effective in treating tuberculosis with respiratory failure. It showed advantages in reducing invasive ventilation time and ventilator-associated adverse events.
Prognostic and Functional Impact of Perioperative LAＭA/LABA Inhaled Therapy In Patients With Lung Cancer and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease 
Authors: Azuma Yoko , Sano Atsushi , Sakai Takashi , Koezuka Satoshi , Otsuka Hajime , Tochigi Naobumi , Isobe Kazutoshi , Sakamoto Susumu , Takai Yujiro , Iyoda Akira
Published: February 2021

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an important risk factor for postoperative complications and mortality. The utility of several perioperative bronchodilators in patients with COPD requiring surgery for lung cancer has been reported, but the most suitable agent and its specific effect on postoperative long-term prognosis remain unclear. To determine the effects of perioperative combination therapy, using a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and a long-acting β2 agonist (LABA), on preoperative lung function, postoperative morbidity and mortality, and long-term outcome in COPD patients.Methods: Between January 2005 and October 2019, 130 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed COPD underwent surgery for lung cancer. We conducted a retrospective review of their medical records. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to perioperative management: LAMA/LABA (n=64), LAMA (n=23) and rehabilitation only (no bronchodilator) (n=43). Results: Patients who received preoperative LAMA/LABA therapy showed significant improvement in lung function before surgery (p<0.001 for both forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and percentage of predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1 %pred). Compared with patients who received preoperative LAMA therapy, patients with LAMA/LABA therapy had significantly improved lung function (ΔFEV1, 223.1 mL vs 130.0 mL, ΔFEV1 %pred, 10.8% vs 6.8%; both p<0.05). There was a trend toward a lower incidence of postoperative complications in the LAMA/LABA group compared with the LAMA and rehabilitation-only groups. In patients with moderate to severe air flow limitation (n=61), those who received LAMA/LABA therapy had significantly longer overall survival and disease-free survival compared with patients in the other groups. Perioperative LAMA/LABA therapy was also associated with lower recurrence rates. Conclusions: Patients who receive perioperative LAMA/LABA for moderate to severe COPD have improved prognosis and better pulmonary function with surgery for lung cancer. We believe this treatment combination is optimal for patients with lung cancer and COPD.
The Role of Vitamin D on the Prognosis and Incidence of Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qian Mingxia , Guo Dina , Fu Rongrong , Qi Shuping , Fu Xiaojun , Yuan Lingling , Qian Lilin
Published: February 2021

Background: The correlation between vitamin D intake and lung cancer development is controversial. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D and the prognosis and incidence of lung cancer. Methods: A comprehensive database search on Pubmed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library was carried out from the beginning to November 2020. Long-term survival and the incidence rate of patients with lung cancer were the primary outcomes of the study. Results: Ten eligible studies were selected for the meta-analysis following specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Four included studies, covering 5007 patients, compared the overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) of lung cancer patients among total vitamin D users with non-users. Significantly, the estimated pooled hazard ratio (HR) revealed that vitamin D could improve OS and RFS of lung cancer patients [HR=0.83, 95% CI (0.72-0.95); HR=0.79, 95% CI (0.61-0.97), respectively]. Vitamin D intake was inversely associated with lung cancer incidence in six studies [OR=0.90, 95% CI (0.83-0.97)]. Conclusions: The present meta-analysis shows vitamin D not only improves the long-term survival of lung cancer patients but has a beneficial effect on the incidence of lung cancer. Notwithstanding, more studies are needed to confirm the study results.
Mapping the functional brain state of a world champion freediver in static dry apnea
Authors: Annen Jitka , Panda Rajanikant , Martial Charlotte , Piarulli Andrea , Nery Guillaume , Sanz Leandro R. D. , Valdivia-Valdivia Juan M. , Ledoux Didier , Gosseries Olivia , Laureys Steven
Published: February 2021

Voluntary apnea showcases extreme human adaptability in trained individuals like professional free divers. We evaluated the physiological and psychological adaptation and the functional cerebral changes using EEG and fMRI to 6.5 minutes of dry static apnea performed by a world champion free diver. Compared to resting state at baseline, apnea was characterized by increased EEG power and functional connectivity in the alpha band, along with decreased delta band connectivity. fMRI connectivity was increased within the DMN and visual areas but decreased in pre- and postcentral cortices. While these changes occurred in regions overlapping with cerebral signatures of several meditation practices, they also display some unique features that suggest an altered somatosensory integration. As suggested by the self-reported phenomenology, these findings could reflect the ability of elite free divers to create a (functional) dissociation between the body and the mind when performing prolonged apnea.
Effect of storage conditions and sodium hypochlorite treatment on germination of Cucumis prophetarum (Cucurbitaceae) seeds from arid Arabian deserts
Authors: Shabana Hatem Ahmed , Mahmoud Tamer , Gairola Sanjay , Ketbi Asma Al , Aljasmi Mariam , Sallani Mariam Al
Published: February 2021

Background

This is the first study on seed germination of Cucumis prophetarum in the Arabian Peninsula. Light and temperature as the main environmental factors and seed storage conditions greatly affect the germination of many Cucurbitaceae species. C. prophetarum is the perennial prostrate with woody rootstocks that grow throughout the year in the arid Arabian deserts. We examined the effects of seed storage conditions and sterilization by sodium hypochlorite (NaOCL) on germination of C. prophetarum seeds. Matured, fresh and field stored seeds were collected in March of 2016 and 2017 from a population in the United Arab Emirates. Fresh and the stored seeds (field, freeze, and room temperature) were germinated at three temperature regimes (15/25, 20/30 and 25/35°C) in both continuous darkness and alternating 12 h light/12 h darkness.
Results

The fresh and freeze stored seeds had higher germination percentage than the field and room temperature stored seeds. High germination was recorded in both lower and moderate temperatures (15/25 and 20/30°C) in light conditions. Sterilization of the seeds by NaOCl had a negative effect on the speed and germination percentage under all storage conditions, and it changes light and temperature requirements of seeds for germination.
Conclusions

Germination of C. prophetarum is sensitive to incubation light and temperature as well as to the seed storage conditions. The germination ability of stored seeds indicates that seed storage behaviour of C. prophetarum is orthodox. Light and temperature requirements for seed germination reflects a suitable place, habitat, and time for seedling emergence of C. prophetarum. The effect of NaOCl treatment on the germination may be associated with concentration and exposure periods of seeds. Therefore, we suggest that when using NaOCl for seed sterilization or to stimulate the germination, caution must be taken for using its concentration and exposure time, especially for species with thin and soft seed coats like C. prophetarum. Further studies on seed germination ecology would help to understand better the adaptive strategy of the C. prophetarum in the arid desert environments.
Production of palmitoleic acid by oleaginous yeast Scheffersomyces segobiensis DSM 27193 using systematic dissolved oxygen regulation strategy
Authors: Zhou Xinhai , Zhou Dawei , Bao Xinhui , Zhou Jie , Xin Fengxue , Zhang Wenming , Qian Xiujuan , Dong Weiliang , Jiang Min , Ochsenreither Katrin
Published: February 2021

Background: Recently, a newly isolated oleaginous yeast strain Scheffersomyces segobiensis DSM 27193 was identified with the capability of accumulating high contents of palmitoleic acid (POA) in its intracellular lipid (13.8%). However, high amounts of ethanol as the main by-product were also produced in this system. To eliminate ethanol formation and to further improve POA production, process optimization focused on dissolved oxygen (DO) regulation was conducted in this study.Results: As a result, agitation control was found to be highly beneficial for cell growth and lipid production. When keeping pO2>40% through dynamic agitation control, significant improvements toward lipid (70.12% increase) and POA (1.44 fold) production have been obtained, and the accumulation of ethanol was decreased to 2.3 g/L. While increasing the aeration rate to 2 vvm, no significant decrease has been found in ethanol accumulation. Further application of a two-stage agitation regulation (600 rpm in the first 48 h fermentation then adjusted the agitation speed to 1000 rpm) gave 10.23 g/L of lipid (50% increase) with 2.02 g/L of POA (1.15 fold) production. At last, under the best condition of 1000 rpm of agitation and 1 vvm of aeration, no ethanol was detected during the whole fermentation process, while a dry biomass concentration of 44.8 g/L with 13.43 g/L of lipid and 2.93 g/L of POA was achieved. Transcription analysis revealed that ethanol synthetic pathway was down regulated under the condition of high agitation, while the expression of the key enzymes responsible for lipid and POA accumulation were enhanced.Conclusion: This study introduces the oleaginous yeast chassis S. segobiensis DSM 27193 and an effective pO2 regulation strategy for efficient biological production of POA.
Methylobrevis albus sp. nov., isolated from freshwater lake sediment
Authors: Zou Qi-Hang , Feng Xi , Wang Tao-Jie , Du Zong-Jun
Published: February 2021

An aerobic, Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped bacterium with flagellum, designated L22T, was isolated from freshwater of Hulun Lake, Inner Mongolia, China. The organism was found to grow optimally at 30 ℃ in medium containing 0-0.75%(w/v) NaCl at pH 7.5. The major fatty acid identified was summed feature 8 (C16:1ω7c). The dominant polar lipids were phosphomonoester, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine. The main ubiquinone was Q-10. The G + C content of genomic DNA was 69.8 mol%. The 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain L22T was affiliated with the genus Methylobrevis within the family Pleomorphomonadaceae, being most closely related to M. pamukkalensis JCM 30229T with 95.9% sequences similarity. Based on taxonomic results in this study, we proposed that strain L22T was placed into a novel species in the genus Methylobrevis of the family Pleomorphomonadaceae, for which the name Methylobrevis albus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is L22T (= KCTC 72858T = MCCC 1H00432T).