bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in COVID-19 Vaccine Intentions during the COVID-19 Pandemic; a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cross-Sectional Studies
Authors: Terry Emily , Cartledge Sapphire , Damery Sarah , Greenfield Professor Sheila
Published: September 2021

BackgroundA high COVID-19 vaccine uptake is essential to achieve herd immunity to combat the current strain of COVID-19 and potential future variants. This review aimed to identify factors associated with public intention to receive COVID-19 vaccines until February 2021 to provide accessible data to policymakers to inform framing and targeting of messages designed to optimise vaccine uptake.MethodsMedline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, Sociological Abstracts and Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts were searched for cross-sectional studies reporting data regarding COVID-19 vaccine intentions, published between 01/01/2020 and 12/02/2021. Title/abstract and full-text screening were performed independently by two authors. The Appraisal Tool for Cross-sectional Studies (AXIS) was used to assess bias and quality. Both random-effects meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were used to describe vaccine intentions and associated factors. A subgroup analysis assessing the impact of sex, sampling method and time of survey on COVID-19 vaccine intention was performed. ResultsSearches identified 4739 studies, and 23 cross-sectional studies were deemed eligible for the review; 22 used online surveys and one used a mixed-methods study design. Eighteen surveys were conducted in the first half of 2020 and five were conducted in the latter half of 2020. Fifteen countries were represented, with the most common being the United States (n=4) and the United Kingdom (n=4) sampling 41403 participants across all surveys. Most studies employed convenience sampling and 11 non-responder rates raised concerns over non-response bias. From the 18 studies included in the meta-analysis, the pooled proportion of survey participants willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine was 73.3% (n=18, 95% Confidence Interval 64.2% to 81.5%, I2= 99.7%). Factors associated with a higher COVID-19 vaccine acceptance included greater perceived risk of COVID-19, lower level of perceived vaccine harm, higher educational attainment and household income, older age, being of White ethnicity and male sex.ConclusionsThere was a high willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine which was influenced by multiple sociodemographic factors and individual risk perceptions. The findings suggest that future research should explore the reasoning behind vaccine intentions for different sociodemographic groups to allow targeted communication strategies to be formulated by public health agencies.
Complementary Catalysis and Analysis Within Solid-State Additively Manufactured Metal Micro-Flow Reactors
Authors: Monaghan T. , Harding M. J. , Christie S. D. R. , Harris R. A. , Friel R. J.
Published: September 2021

Additive Manufacturing is transforming how researchers and industrialists look to design and manufacture chemical devices to meet their specific needs. In this work, we report the first example of a flow reactor formed via the solid-state metal sheet lamination technique, Ultrasonic Additive Manufacturing (UAM), and featuring directly integrated catalytic sections and sensing elements. The UAM technology not only overcomes many of the current limitations associated with the additive manufacturing of chemical reactionware but it also significantly increases the functionality of such devices. A range of biologically important 1, 4-disubstituted 1, 2, 3-triazole compounds were successfully synthesised and optimised inflow through a Cu mediated Huisgen 1, 3-dipolar cycloaddition using the UAM chemical device. By exploiting the unique properties of UAM and continuous flow processing, the device was able to catalyse the proceeding reactions whilst also providing real-time feedback for reaction monitoring and optimisation.
Effects of Rosemary Oil (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Supplementation on the Fate of the Transplanted Human Olfactory Bulb Neural Stem Cells Against Ibotenic Acid-Induced Neurotoxicity (Alzheimer Model) in Rat
Authors: Rezk Shaymaa , Lashen Samah , EL-Adl Mohamed , Elshopakey Gehad E. , Elghareeb Mona M. , Hendam Basma M. , Caceci Thomas , CenciarelliC Carlo , Marei Hany E.
Published: September 2021

Rosemary oil (ROO) is known to have multiple pharmacological effects: it is an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective. In the present study, we examined the effects of ROO on Human olfactory bulb neuronal stem cells (hOBNSCs) after their transplantation into rats, with the ibotenic (IBO) acid-induced cognitive deficit model. After 7 weeks, cognitive functions were assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM). After two months blood and the hippocampus were collected for biochemical, gene expression, and histomorphometric analyses. Learning ability and memory function were significantly enhanced after hOBNSCs transplantation and were nearly returned to normal in the treated group. The IBO acid injection was associated with a significant decline of total leukocyte count (TLC) and a significant increase in total and toxic neutrophils. As well, the level of IL-1β, TNF-α CRP in serum and levels of MDA and NO in hippocampus tissue were significantly elevated, while antioxidant markers (CAT, GSH, and SOD) were reduced in treated tissue compared to controls. The administration of ROO before or with cell transplantation attenuated all these parameters. In particular, the level of NO nearly returned to normal when rosemary was administrated before cell transplantation. Gene expression analysis revealed the potential protective effect of ROO and hOBNSCs via down-expression of R-βAmyl and R- CAS 3 and R-GFAP genes.
Toripalimab Used on the Same Day or Third Day With Chemotherapy for Neoadjuvant Chemoimmunotherapy in Locally Advanced Esophageal Squamous Cell Cancer—A Phase II Study
Authors: Xing Wenqun , Zhao Lingdi , Zheng Yan , Liu Baoxing , Liu Xianben , Li Tiepeng , Zhang Yong , Ma Baozhen , Yang Yonghao , Shang Yiman , Fu Xiaomin , Liang Guanghui , Yuan Dongfeng , Qu Jinrong , Chai Xiaofei , Zhang He , Wang Zibing , Lin Hongwei , Liu Liang , Ren Xiubao , Zhang Jiangong , Gao Quanli
Published: September 2021

Background

There is no standard neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer in China. The role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy plus immunotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer is still being explored.
Methods

This open-label, randomized phase II study was conducted at a single center between July 2019 and September 2020, 30 patients with locally advanced ESCC (T3, T4, or lymph-node positive) were enrolled. Patients were randomized according to the enrollment order at a 1:1 ratio to receive chemotherapy on day 1 and toripalimab on day 3 (experiment group) or chemotherapy and toripalimab on day 1 (control group). The chemotherapeutic regimen was paclitaxel and cisplatin. Surgery was performed 4 to 6 weeks after the second cycle of chemoimmunotherapy. The primary endpoint was pCR rate, the secondary endpoint were safety and disease-free survival.
Results

Thirty patients completed at least one cycle of chemoimmunotherapy; 11 in the experimental group and 13 in the control group received surgery. R0 resection was got in all these 24 patients. Four patients (36%) in the experimental group and one (7%) in the control group achieved pCR. The experimental group showed a statistically non-significant higher pCR rate (P = 0.079). PD-L1 combined positive score (CPS) examination was performed in 14 patients; one in control group had a PD-L1 CPS of 10 and pCR was achieved, while the left 13 were all ≤ 1, 11 of the 13 patients received surgery in which two (in the experimental group) got pCR. Two patients endured from ≥ grade 3 adverse events, one suffered from grade 3 immune-related enteritis after one cycle of chemoimmunotherapy and dropped off the study. Another patient died from severe pulmonary infection and troponin elevation after surgery.
CONCLUSIONS

Although the primary endpoint was not met, initial results of this study showed that delaying toripalimab to day 3 in chemoimmunotherapy might achieve a higher pCR rate than that on same day, and further large-sample clinical trials are needed to verify this.
Trial registration:
NCT 03985670, registered 10 June 2019.
Intra-Amniotic Administration of l-Glutamine Promotes Intestinal Maturation And Enteroendocrine Stimulation In Chick Embryos
Authors: Reicher Naama , Melkman-Zehavi Tal , Dayan Jonathan , Uni Zehava
Published: September 2021

Initial nutritional stimulation is a key driving force for small intestinal maturation, and is mediated by enteroendocrine L-cells signaling. In chick embryos, administration of specific nutrients into the amniotic fluid stimulates early development of the small intestine. In this study, we examined the effects of intra-amniotic administration of l-glutamine (Gln) on enterocyte morphological and functional maturation and L-cell signaling before and after hatch. Gln stimulation at embryonic day 17 caused an increase in enterocyte and microvilli dimensions by 10 and 20%, respectively, within 48h. Post-hatch, enterocytes and microvilli were 20% longer in Gln-treated chicks. Correspondingly, mRNA expression of brush border nutrient transporters PepT-1 and SGLT-1 and tight junction proteins TJP-1, TJP-2 and Occludin was significantly upregulated before and after hatch (P<0.05) in Gln-treated chicks. We then evaluated the effects of Gln stimulation on enteroendocrine signaling by locating L-cells in the developing jejunum and observed significant increases in mRNA expression of L-cell signaling components GLP-2R, IGF-1 and IGF-1R before and after hatch, in response to Gln stimulation (P<0.05). Our findings link primary nutrient stimulation of L-cells to enterocyte morphological and functional maturation and provide a model for investigating the effects of specific nutrients on enteroendocrine signaling in the developing small intestine.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Taiwanese Version of the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index
Authors: Chu Kuo-Min , Ma Hsiao-Li , Lin Li-Hwa , Hsu Hsiu-Chu , Shun Shiow-Ching
Published: September 2021

Background: The Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) index is a self-report questionnaire that measures the disease-specific quality of life in patients with rotator cuff injuries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Taiwanese version of WORC (T-WORC) in patients with rotator cuff tear (RCT) before surgery. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. The study was composed of two phases: translation of the WORC into Taiwanese version of WORC, and 210 patients with rotator cuff tear before surgery completed the questionnaire twice within 2 weeks. The main outcome measures included reliability and validity. Reliability was assessed with internal consistency and test-retest. Internal consistency was assessed using the Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Construct validity was evaluated by examining convergent, divergent, known-group validity, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Results: The T-WORC demonstrated satisfactory reliability with the Cronbach's alpha of .94, and ICC (2 week-interval) of .79. The convergent validity showed that the T-WORC was significantly positively correlated with the disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand and numerical rating scales of pain, but negatively correlated with the Short Form-12. The divergent validity was shown by the low correlation between T-WORC and state anger scale. The known-group validity showed a significant difference between the high pain group and the low pain group. The EFA revealed 4 factors, daily activities and function, physical symptoms, emotion, and shoulder clicking and recreation, which explained 66.13 % of the variance. Conclusions: The findings of this study did not support the 5-domain structure proposed by the original version. Nevertheless, the T-WORC still demonstrated adequate psychometric properties and could be a useful instrument for assessing the RCT patients' quality of life before surgery.
LncRNA SAL-RNA1 Knockdown Suppressed Pink1-Mediated Mitophagy Protects Against CS-Induced Alveolar Cells Senescence Through Regulation of Sirt1
Authors: Jiang Hui , Li Yaqing , Xu Yuanri , Jiang Yaona , Yuan Dong
Published: September 2021

Background

LncRNAs pays an important roles in the regulation of alveolar cells in cigarette smoke (CS) induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the role of lncRNA SAL-RNA1 in promoting mitophagy and reduces senescence of alveolar cells in COPD is unknow.
Methods

This study is aims to elucidate the underlying mechanism of LncRNA SAL-RNA1 and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-induced putative protein kinase 1 (PINK1) expression were upregulated in alveolar of emphysema mice and CS treated alveolar epithelial cells. LncRNA SAL-RNA1 knockdown suppressed mitophagy and induced senescence of alveolar cells while overexpressing lncRNA SAL-RNA1 promoted mitophagy and reduced the senescence of alveolar cells. In addition, lncRNA SAL-RNA1 interacted with Sirt1 and regulated the upgradation of Sirt1.
Results

We further found lncRNA SAL-RNA1 regulated Pink1 expression through Sirt1. Mechanistically, lncRNA SAL-RNA1 regulated PinK1-mediated mitophagy and senescence of alveolar cells through regulation Sirt1.
Conclusion

Finally, overexpression lncRNA SAL-RNA1 promote mitophagy and relieved emphysema.
Shoot Proliferation, Callus Induction And Plant Regeneration In Tripsacum Laxum Nash
Authors: Xiong Yuping , Pang Jinhui , Wu Kunlin , Silva Jaime A. Teixeira , Zhang Xinhua , Li Yuan , Zeng Songjun , MA Guohua
Published: September 2021

The peduncles of Tripsacum laxum Nash were used as explants to induce axillary shoots. Multiple shoots were proliferated on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium to establish, for the first time, efficient shoot proliferation and plant in vitro regeneration systems. Optimal shoot proliferation medium was MS with 3.0 mg/L 6-benzyladenine (BA) and 0.2 mg/L α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), resulting in a shoot proliferation coefficient of 11.0 within 45 d. Optimal rooting medium was MS with 0.1 mg/L NAA and/or 0.1 mg/L indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), inducing 100% root formation from shoots within 30 d. When young roots, leaf sheaths and shoot bases were used as explants, MS medium with 1.0 mg/L thidiazuron (TDZ) and 0.2 mg/L BA induced most shoots, with the least callus. Shoot bases induced beige-white callus and shoots directly on MS medium with 1.0 mg/L TDZ and 0.2 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), while leaf sheaths induced beige-white callus and shoots directly on MS medium with 1.0 mg/L TDZ and 0.2 mg/L BA. Rooted plantlets showed 99.3% survival when transplanted into a substrate of vermiculite: peat soil (1:3, v/v).
Effectiveness Assessment of Using Riverine Water eDNA to Simultaneously Monitor the Riverine and Riparian Biodiversity Information
Authors: Yang Haile , Du Hao , Qi Hongfang , Yu Luxian , Hou Xindong , Zhang Hui , Li Junyi , Wu Jinming , Wang Chengyou , Zhou Qiong , Wei Qiwei
Published: September 2021

Both aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity information can be detected in riverine water environmental DNA (eDNA). However, the effectiveness of using riverine water eDNA to simultaneously monitor the riverine and terrestrial biodiversity information remains unidentified. Here, we proposed that the monitoring effectiveness could be approximated by the transportation effectiveness of land-to-river and upstream-to-downstream biodiversity information flows and described by three new indicators. Subsequently, we conducted a case study in a watershed on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The results demonstrated that there was higher monitoring effectiveness on summer or autumn rainy days than in other seasons and weather conditions. The monitoring of the bacterial biodiversity information was more efficient than the monitoring of the eukaryotic biodiversity information. On summer rainy days, 43-76% of species information in riparian sites could be detected in water eDNA samples, 92-99% of species information in riverine sites could be detected in a 1-km downstream eDNA sample, and half of dead bioinformation (i.e., the bioinformation labeling the biological material that lacked life activity and fertility) could be monitored 4-6 km downstream for eukaryotes and 13-19 km downstream for bacteria. The current study provided reference method and data for future monitoring projects design and for future monitoring results evaluation.
Mindfulness & Music Interventions in the Workplace: Assessment of Mind Wandering and Working Memory Using a Crowdsourcing Approach
Authors: Axelsen Johanne , Meline Jacob Stig Jarnot , Staiano Walter , Kirk Ulrich
Published: September 2021

Background

Occupational stress has huge financial as well as human costs. Application of crowdsourcing might be a way to strengthen the investigation of occupational mental health. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess Danish employees’ stress and cognition by relying on a crowdsourcing approach, as well as investigating the effect of a 30-day mindfulness and music intervention.
Methods

We translated well-validated neuropsychological laboratory- and task-based paradigms into an app-based platform using cognitive games measuring mind wandering and working memory and measuring stress via. Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale. A total of 623 healthy volunteers from Danish companies participated in the study and were randomized into three groups, which consisted of a 30-day intervention of either mindfulness or music, or a non-intervention control group.
Results

Participants in the mindfulness group showed a significant improvement in the coefficient of mind wandering, working memory capacity and perceived stress (p < .001). The music group showed a 38% decrease of self-perceived stress. The control group showed no difference from pre to post in the survey or cognitive outcome measures. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between usage of the mindfulness and music app and elevated score on both the cognitive games and the Perceived Stress Scale.
Conclusion

The study supports the nascent field of crowdsourcing by being able to replicate data collected in previous well-controlled laboratory studies from a range of experimental cognitive tasks, making it an effective alternative. It also supports mindfulness as an effective intervention in improving mental health in the workplace.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Potential Roles of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Feed Efficiency of Chicken
Authors: Karimi Parastoo , Bakhtiarizadeh Mohammad Reza , Salehi Abdolreza , Izadnia Hamid Reza
Published: September 2021

Feed efficiency is an important economic trait and reduces the production costs per unit of animal product. Up to now, few studies have conducted transcriptome profiling of liver tissue in feed efficiency-divergent chickens (Ross vs native breeds). Also, molecular mechanisms contributing to differences in feed efficiency are not fully understood, especially in terms of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Hence, transcriptome profiles of liver tissue in commercial and native chicken breeds were analyzed. RNA-Seq data along with bioinformatics approaches were applied and a series of lncRNAs and target genes were identified. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction network construction, co-expression analysis, co-localization analysis of QTLs and functional enrichment analysis were used to functionally annotate the identified lncRNAs.In total, 2,290 lncRNAs were found (including 1,110 annotated, 593 known and 587 novel), of which 53 (including 39 known and 14 novel), were identified as differentially expressed genes between two breeds. The expression profile of lncRNAs was validated by RT-qPCR. The identified novel lncRNAs showed a number of characteristics similar to those of known lncRNAs. Target prediction analysis showed that these lncRNAs have the potential to act in cis or trans mode. Functional enrichment analysis of the predicted target genes revealed that they might affect the differences in feed efficiency of chicken by modulating genes associated with lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, growth, energy homeostasis and glucose metabolism. Some gene members of significant modules in the constructed co-expression networks were reported as important genes related to feed efficiency. Co-localization analysis of QTLs related to feed efficiency and the identified lncRNAs suggested several candidates to be involved in residual feed intake. The findings of this study provided valuable resources to further clarify the genetic basis of regulation of feed efficiency in chicken from the perspective of lncRNAs.
One Pot Synthesis of Ternary MWCNTs/ZnO/Chitosan Nanocomposite for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Dyes and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Malekkiani Mitra , Magham Abbas Heshmati Jannat , Ravari Fateme , Dadmehr Mehdi
Published: September 2021

Developing a cheap, stable and effective photocatalyst is necessary for remediation of persistent organic pollutants. To address this challenge, we proposed a unique interfacial engineering technique and proper bandgap matching strategy to synthesize MWCNTs/ZnO/Chitosan ternary nanocomposite for effective photocatalytic application. The features of the prepared samples were determined by FESEM, TEM, EDX, elemental mapping, AFM, FT-IR, XRD, UV-Vis spectroscopy and BET surface analysis. The obtained results showed successful fabrication of synthesized nanocomposites. Degradation effect of nanostructures on methylene blue (MB) and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) pathogenic strains were investigated. The proposed photocatalytic mechanism illustrated the electron transfer facilitated by MWCNTs/ZnO/Chitosan structure which results in spatial separation of electron-hole pairs. Compared with ZnO and ZnO/Chitosan, the prepared MWCNTs/ZnO/Chitosan ternary nanocomposite showed high usage of UV illumination and superior separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. MWCNTs/ZnO/Chitosan illustrated outstanding increased photocatalytic activity on MB degradation efficiency of 98.76% after 20 mins. In addition, the ternary nanocomposite also exhibited remarkable bactericidal activity against gram-positive (S. aureus) and (B. subtilis) and gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria strains. Due to the obtained results, the prepared nanocomposite would be an efficient candidate photocatalyst with antibacterial properties.
A Novel Defined Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signature for Predicting the Prognosis of Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Ming , Liu Hui , Zhang Ming-Hao , Wan Li-Lin , Shi Nai-Peng , Pan Ke-Hao , Hu Qiang , Xu Bin
Published: September 2021

Objective: Currently, the mechanism of ferroptosis in the progression of kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is still unclear. This paper aims to explore the potential mechanism of ferroptosis-related genes in KIRC.Methods: Using KIRC chip data in Gene Expression Synthesis (GEO) database, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between normal and tumor group were screened in GSE168845, GSE105261 and GSE11151 by limma package. Ferroptosis-related DEGs were gained by the intersection of DEGs and ferroptosis-related genes, which from the FerrDb database. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of ferroptosis-related DEGs was carried out by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Univariate and multivariate Cox risk regression model was used to screen and establish gene prognosis risk prediction model. For ferroptosis-related DEGs, targeted small molecules are predicted for the treatment of KIRC.Results: In GSE168845, GSE105261 and GSE11151, 2532 DEGs were screened from normal group and tumor group. And 149 ferroptosis-related genes were obtained from the FerrDb database. Through the intersection of DEGs and ferroptosis-related genes, 17 ferroptosis-related DEGs were obtained. GO enrichment analysis indicated that primary biological processes of 17 ferroptosis-related DEGs enrichment had iron ion binding, microvillus membrane and regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter in response to stress. Based on univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, the multivariate prognostic risk prediction model composed of three ferroptosis DEGs including MT1G, LAMP2 and MIOX was constructed. The results of patient risk score indicated that the prognosis with high score was worse than those with low score. Meanwhile, we found that the exprssion of MT1G, LAMP2 and MIOX were related with methylation and immune infiltration in KIRC. Terroptosis-gene interaction and terroptosis-miRNA coregulatory network of MT1G, LAMP2 and MIOX were collected by Network Analyst. Then, the ferroptosis-related prognosis nomogram, including age, gender, grade, TNM and risk score, was found to predict the overall survival (OS) of KIRC patients. Finally, according to ferroptosis related DEGs, the potential therapeutic effects of emetine, cephaeline,scoulerline, sanguinarine, cicloheximide, tolfenamic acid, phenoxybenzamine and calmidazolium were predicted in KIRC.Conclusion: The risk prediction models of MT1G, LAMP2 and MIOX can effectively predict the prognosis of patients with KIRC. And MT1G, LAMP2 and MIOX are related to methylation and immune infiltration in KIRC, which is expected to play a guiding role in the clinical treatment of KIRC. Targeted these three genes, potential therapeutic drugs of emetine, cephaeline,scoulerline, sanguinarine, cicloheximide, tolfenamic acid, phenoxybenzamine and calmidazolium were also predicted in KIRC.
The Tobacco Metabolite NNK Enhances Pancreatic Cancer Cell Stemness and Chemoresistance by Activating The β2AR-Akt Autophagy Axis
Authors: Chen Xin , Zhang Weifan , Liu Rujuan , Zhu Zeen , Gong Mengyuan , Wang Qiqi , Qian Weikun , Wu Zheng , Ma Qingyong , wang zheng
Published: September 2021

Background: Low responsiveness to chemotherapy is an important cause of poor prognosis in pancreatic cancer. Smoking is a high-risk factor for pancreatic cancer and its resistance to gemcitabine; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. 4-(Methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) is the main metabolite of tobacco burning and has been shown to be associated with cancer development and chemoresistance, but in pancreatic cancer, its mechanism remains poorly understood.Methods: The effect of NNK on pancreatic cancer cell viability was confirmed by using Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays. Stem cell sphere formation assays and western blotting/qPCR measurements of stemness-related molecules were used to detect pancreatic cancer cell stemness. The pancreatic cancer autophagy status was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining of LC3 and western blotting/qPCR analysis of autophagy-related molecules.Results: NNK promoted stemness and gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer cell lines. Furthermore, NNK intervention increased autophagy and changed the expression levels of autophagy-related markers, which preliminarily confirmed the activation of autophagy by NNK. Finally, the results showed that NNK-promoted stemness, and gemcitabine resistance was activated by the autophagy pathway, which was mediated by the β2AR-Akt signalling pathway.Conclusions: Autophagy induced by activating the NNK-induced β2AR-Akt signalling pathway promoted stemness and gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer cells.
Effect of a Digital Precision Public Health Intervention for Care Coordination During Covid-19 Pandemic in Australia: A Real World Study
Authors: Andrade Andre Q , Calabretto Jean-Pierre , Pratt Nicole L , Kalisch-Ellett Lisa M , LeBlanc Vanessa T , Roughead Elizabeth E
Published: September 2021

Background: Emergencies disproportionally affect vulnerable populations. The COVID-19 pandemic affected older patients with co-morbidities both directly due to more severe infection and indirectly by affecting care provision. To promote continuity of care, public health professionals require tools to quickly and precisely coordinate with primary care providers. This study evaluated whether digital interventions powered by current existing infrastructure are more effective than conventional interventions in promoting primary care appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We developed a digital intervention delivered by secure messaging and compared it to a post delivered intervention to promote continuity of care for vulnerable veterans during COVID-19 in a real world, non-randomised, interventional study. The study was implemented as part of the Veterans’ MATES program, an Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs program to promote improvements in health care for veterans. The intervention provided patient specific information to general practitioners (GPs) to support continuity of care, alongside mailed education to veterans. The intervention key messages were to maintain regular contact with care providers and to continue to adhere to health plans. The intervention took place in April 2020, during the first weeks of COVID-19 social distancing rules in Australia. The main outcome was time to first appointment with the primary general practitioner (GP) measured using a Cox proportional hazards model.Results: GPs received digital messaging for 51,052 veterans and post messaging for 26,859 veterans. The proportion of patients seeing their primary GP during the three months following intervention was higher in the digital group (77.8%) than the post group (61.5%) (p<0.01). Being in the digital group was associated with earlier appointments. Conclusion: Current infrastructure coupled with innovative solutions is effective in promoting care coordination at scale during national emergencies, opening up new perspectives for precision public health initiatives.
Decreased Serum Iron Concentration and Total Iron Binding Capacity Are Associated With Serious Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Su Jingling , Ren Yandan , Liu Lupeng , Hu Yiqun , Shi Huaxiu , Ren Jianlin , xie chenxi
Published: September 2021

Background
This study aimed to investigate whether serum indicators related to iron stores in the body are associated with clinical and endoscopic disease severity.
Methods
Eighty-four patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and twenty-four healthy volunteers were included in this retrospective study. Clinical and endoscopic severity of disease was recorded by Crohn’s disease activity index (CDAI) scores and the simple endoscopic score of Crohn’s disease (SES-CD), respectively. The indicators related to iron stores included serum iron (SI), total iron binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, transferrin (Tf), and transferrin saturation (TSAT%). They were detected within one week after endoscopic and CT enterography examinations.
Results
Patients were divided into three groups according to the CDAI scores. Serum iron levels were decreased in all patient groups (p < 0.05), and the values of remission group were higher than those of moderate group (p < 0.001). The TIBC values of the moderate group were lower than those of the controls and the other patient groups (p < 0.05). The above two indicators were negatively correlated with CDAI scores (p < 0.05). None of the indicators differed significantly among the patients classified by SES-CD (p > 0.05). Underweight, decreased serum iron and TIBC were independent risk factors for moderate clinical disease. Combined detection of decreased serum iron and TIBC was helpful in differentiating severe patients. The sensitivity and specificity were 32.7% and 100%, respectively (AUC = 0.812, p < 0.01).
Conclusions
Decreases in serum iron and TIBC were associated with the clinical activity of CD. Combined detection of the two indicators was conducive to screening patients with serious disease.
Risk Factors for the Development of Nosocomial Pneumonia and Its Clinical Impact in Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Gerod Ferdinand Jr Rivera , Ongjoco Edgar , Castro Rod , Masbang Armin , Repotente Elmer Casley , Cruz Darwin Dela , Gata Heidi Louise , Nierras Christine Megan
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe development of nosocomial pneumonia after cardiac surgery is a significant post-operative complication that may lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and hospital cost. We aimed to identify risk factors associated with it and to determine its clinical impact in terms of in-hospital mortality and morbidity.MethodsThis is a retrospective cohort study conducted among all adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery from 2014-2019 in St. Luke’s Medical Center, Quezon City, Philippines. Baseline characteristics and possible risk factors for pneumonia were retrieved from medical records. Nosocomial pneumonia was based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Clinical outcomes include in-hospital mortality and morbidity. Odds ratios from logistic regression was computed to determine risk factors associated with pneumonia using STATA 15.0.ResultsOut of 373 patients included in this study, 104 (28%) patients acquired pneumonia. Most surgeries were coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) (71.58%), followed by valve repair/replacement (29.76%). Neither age, sex, BMI, diabetes, LV dysfunction, renal dysfunction, COPD/asthma, urgency of surgery, surgical time, nor smoking showed association in the development of pneumonia. However, preoperative stay of >2 days was associated with 92.3% (95%CI 18–213%) increased odds of having pneumonia (p=.009). Also, every additional hour on mechanical ventilation conferred 0.8% (95%CI, 0.3–1%) greater odds of acquiring pneumonia (p=.003).Patients who developed pneumonia had 3.9 times odds of mortality (95%CI 1.51–9.89, p=.005), 3.8 times odds of prolonged hospitalization (95%CI 1.81–7.90,p<.001), 6.4 times odds of prolonged ICU stay (95%CI 3.59–11.35,p<.001), and 9.5 times odds of postoperative reintubation (95%CI 3.01–29.76,p<.001). ConclusionAmong adult patients undergoing cardiac surgeries, prolonged preoperative hospital stay and prolonged mechanical ventilation were both associated with an increased risk for nosocomial pneumonia. Those who developed pneumonia had worse outcomes with significantly increased in-hospital mortality, prolonged hospitalization, prolonged ICU stay, and increased postoperative re-intubation. Clinicians should therefore minimize delays in surgery to avoid unnecessary exposure to pathogenic organisms. Also, timely liberation from mechanical ventilation after surgery should be encouraged.
Spatial Distributions of 226Ra and 228Ra in the Indian and Southern Oceans in 2020 and Their Implications for Unique Currents
Authors: Inoue Mutsuo , Hanaki Shotaro , Kameyama Hiroaki , Kumamoto Yuichiro , Nagao Seiya
Published: September 2021

We examined the spatial variations in 226Ra and 228Ra concentrations from the surface to a depth of 830 m in the Indian and Southern Oceans during December 2019–January 2020. Notably, 226Ra concentrations at the surface increased sharply from 30°S to 60°S along an ~55°E transect (1.4 to 2.9 mBq/L), exhibiting small vertical variations, while 228Ra became depleted, particularly in the Southern Ocean. These distributions indicated the ocean-scale northward lateral movements of 226Ra-rich and 228Ra-depleted currents originating from the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC). Using 226Ra concentrations, the fractions of the ACC at depths of 0–800 m were estimated to decrease from 0.95 to 0.14 from 60°S to 30°S through 0.56 at 43°S. The fractions in the subantarctic area the western Indian Ocean were higher than those previously reported from the eastern, indicating the preferential transport of the ACC. The fractions obtained were approximately equivalent to those in the western Indian section in the 1970s. This could be attributed to the minimal effects of the southward shift of the polar front due to global warming over the last 40 y, implying no notable changes in soluble material transport systems from the Southern Ocean to southern Indian Ocean.
Post-resuscitation partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide and outcome in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Okada Nobunaga , Matsuyama Tasuku , Okada Yohei , Okada Asami , Kandori Kenji , Nakajima Satoshi , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Ohta Bon
Published: September 2021

We aimed to estimate the association between PaCO2 level in the patient after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) resuscitation with patient outcome based on a multicenter prospective cohort registry in Japan between June 2014 and December 2015.Based on the PaCO2 within 24-h after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), patients were divided into six groups as follow; severe hypocapnia (<25mmHg), mild hypocapnia (25–35mmHg,), normocapnia (35–45mmHg), mild hypercapnia (45–55mmHg), severe hypercapnia (>55mmHg), exposure to both hypocapnia and hypercapnia. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to calculate the adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the 1-month poor neurological outcome (Cerebral Performance Category ≥3). Among the 13491 OHCA patients, 607 were included. Severe hypocapnia, mild hypocapnia, severe hypercapnia, and exposure to both hypocapnia and hypercapnia were associated with a higher rate of 1-month poor neurological outcome compared with mild hypercapnia (aOR 6.68 [95% CI 2.16–20.67], 2.56 [1.30–5.04], 2.62 [1.06–6.47], 5.63 [2.21–14.34]; respectively). There was no significant difference between the outcome of patients with normocapnia and mild hypercapnia. In conclusion, maintaining normocapnia and mild hypercapnia during the 24-h after ROSC was associated with better neurological outcomes than other PaCO2 abnormalities in this study.
A Novel Model to Predict Academic Satisfaction on Scientific Research Among Medical Postgraduates in China: a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Luo Ting , Yang Mengyuan , Wang Yongxiang , Guo Fei , Mei Peng , Jin Shengyang , Xie Xiaohui , Ding Yiling , Lei Mingxing
Published: September 2021

Academic satisfaction with scientific research is an important reflection of whether the process or result of academic research meets researchers’ expectations. However, the status quo and associated factors among medical postgraduates have not been studied extensively. We carried out a cross-sectional study. This study was based on an online questionnaire that was designed and extended to medical postgraduates in hospitals affiliated with Chinese universities between November 12, 2020, and January 12, 2021. An 11 Likert scale (from 0 to 10) was used to measure self-satisfaction, and the mean score among academic masters, professional masters and doctors was 4.43, 3.70 and 4.65, respectively. For a total of 1067 medicine participants, low academic satisfaction significantly correlated with depression or anxiety. Research learning manner of self-learning without guidance is another important risk factor (OR=1.88). Medical school year of training, number of projects participated, research working time per day and marital status are other considerable associated factors but less association between papers and satisfaction. The results suggested that academic satisfaction among medical postgraduates improves with the guidance and projects participated. Assessing low satisfaction early and intervention measures are needed to improve academic satisfaction, especially for master candidates.
Denonvilliers’ Fascia Acts as the Fulcrum and Hammock for Continence After Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Lu Xuwei , He Chang , Zhang Sihong , Yang Fan , Guo Zhuifeng , Huang Jiaqi , He Minke , Wu Jiawen , Sheng Xia , Lin Wenyao , Cheng Jie , Guo Jianming , Wang Hang
Published: September 2021

Background: Radical prostatectomy (RP) is the primary treatment of localized prostate cancer. Immediate urinary incontinence post-RP was still common and depressing without specific reason.Methods: A multicenter cohort of 154 consecutive patients from 2018 to 2020, who was diagnosed with localized prostate cancer underwent either modified mini-incision retropubic radical prostatectomy (Mmi-RRP) or laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) or robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Seventy-two patients with DF spared were included in DFS group. Whereas eighty-two patients with DF completely or partially dissected were set as Group Control. The primary outcome was Immediate continence (ImC). Continuous data and categorical data were analyzed with t-test and Chi-square test, respectively. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with logistic regression.Results: Urinary continence of Group DFS was significantly better than that of Group Control at each time point within one year after operation. Incidence rate of continence in Group DFS and Group Control were 83.3% vs 13.4% (P<0.001) for ImC, 90.3% vs 30.5% (P<0.001) at 3months, 91.7% vs 64.6% (P<0.001) at 6months, and 93.1% vs 80.5% (P=0.023) at 1year after operation, respectively. Positive surgical margin (PSM) showed no significant difference (20.8% vs 20.7%, P=0.988). In multivariate analysis, DFS showed importance for ImC post RP (OR=26.418, P<0.001).Conclusions: Denonvilliers’ fascia acted as the fulcrum and hammock for continence post RP. Preservation of DF contributed to better continence after RP without increase of PSM.Trail registration: Our research was conducted retrospectively and approved by the ethical committees of Minhang Hospital, but not registered.
Anxiolytic Effects of Chewing Gum During Preoperative Fasting and Patient-centered Outcome in Female Patients Undergoing Elective Gynecologic Surgery: Randomized controlled study
Authors: Bang Yu Jeong , Lee Jong-Hwan , Kim Chung Su , Lee Yoo-Young , Min Jeong-Jin
Published: September 2021

Although previous studies reported that chewing gum during the preoperative fasting has the benefits of alleviating anxiety and dry mouth, preoperative chewing gum has yet to be accepted as a standard practice due to conventional anesthetic custom. Our study aimed to prospectively evaluate the effects of gum chewing on preoperative anxiety and patient’s discomfort in female patients undergoing gynecologic surgery. Ninety-three patients were enrolled and randomized either into conventional fasting group (control group) or chewing gum with fasting group (gum group). The control group was instructed to fast from 3 p.m on the day before surgery. The gum group performed preoperative fasting in the same manner, but was encouraged to chew gum freely during the fasting period. The primary endpoints were the degree of preoperative anxiety and discomfort immediately before surgery. For the evaluation of preoperative anxiety, Amsterdam preoperative anxiety and information scale (APAIS) was used. Preoperative gastric fluid volume and acidity were also measured as the secondary outcomes. Preoperative anxiety using APAIS was significantly lower in the gum group compared to the control group (17.8 vs. 20.9, p = 0.009). The APAIS sub-score of anxiety and information desire domain were also lower in the gum group. However, there was no significant difference in the gastric fluid analysis between the groups. In the female patients for elective gynecologic surgery, chewing gum during the preoperative fasting period helped to alleviate preoperative anxiety without additional increase of pulmonary aspiration risks. Trial registration: KCT0004422 (05/11/2019, https://cris.nih.go.kr; registration number)
The Association of Demodex Infestation With Pediatric Chalazia
Authors: Huang Jing , Guo Meng-Xiang , Yan Li-Feng , Yu Ying , Han Ling , Wang Jian-Xun , Lu Xiao-He
Published: September 2021

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the association of Demodex infestation with pediatric chalazia. Methods: In a prospective case-control study, 446 children with chalazia and 50 children with non-inflammatory eye disease (controls) who underwent surgical treatment were enrolled from December 2018 to December 2019. Patient ages ranged from 7 months to 13 years old. All patients underwent eyelash sampling for light microscope examination, and statistical correlation analysis between Demodex infestation and chalazia, including the occurrence, recurrence, and course of disease, morphological characteristics, and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) in chalazia patients was performed. Results: Demodex was found in 236 (52.91%) patients with chalazia and zero control patients. Demodicosis was significantly more prevalent in chalazia patients than the control group (P<1x10-14). Recurrent chalazia (P=0.006) and skin surface involvement (P=0.029) were highly correlated with Demodex infestation. Demodicosis was also associated with multiple chalazia (P=.023) and MGD(P=.024). However, Demodex infestation was comparable in the course of disease (P=0.15), seasonal change (P=0.68) and blepharitis subgroups (P=0.15). Within the group of chalazia patients who underwent surgical removal of cysts, 4 (0.9%) patients with concurrent demodicosis experienced recurrence. Conclusions: Demodex infestation was more prevalent in pediatric chalazia patients than healthy children, and was associated with recurrent and multiple chalazia. Demodicosis should be considered as a risk factor of chalazia. In children with chalazia, Demodex examination and comprehensive treatment of Demodex mites should be applied to potentially prevent recurrence.
Association Between Life-style, Metabolic Syndrome and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Its Impact on Quality of Life in Men ≥ 40 years
Authors: Jeong Ji Bong , Lee Jung Hoon , Choo Min Soo , Ahn Dong-Won , Kim Su Hwan , Lee Dong Seok , Cho Min Chul , Son Hwancheol , Jeong Hyeon , Yoo Sangjun
Published: September 2021

Purpose: We aimed to assess the relationship between lifestyle-related variables, metabolic syndrome, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men ≥40years. We also assessed the impact of these variables on quality of life. Materials and methods: From 2014 to 2020, 5,355 men who underwent health check-ups with I-PSS questionnaires at our institute were included in the analysis. The impact of LUTS on sleep disorders and moderate to severe degrees of stress were assessed. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine the variables associated with LUTS and prostate volume. Results: Moderate and severe LUTS were present in 1,317 (24.6%) and 211 (3.9%) men, respectively. Moderate and severe LUTS were significantly associated with the presence of sleep disorders and stress. On multivariable analysis, age, amount of life-long smoking, marital status, income, job, and decreased HDL-cholesterol were associated with the presence of moderate to severe LUTS. Central obesity and decreased HDL-cholesterol levels were also significantly associated with prostate volume, in addition to age. Conclusions: In men ≥40years, stable socioeconomic status is negatively associated with moderate to severe LUTS, which worsens sleep quality and stress level. In addition, quitting smoking and maintaining HDL-cholesterol over 40mg/dL might be effective for preventing moderate to severe LUTS.