bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Algorithms for the quantitative Lock/Key model of cytoplasmic incompatibility
Authors: Calamoneri Tiziana , Gastaldello Mattia , Mary Arnaud , Sagot Marie-France , Sinaimeri Blerina
Published: July 2020

Cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) relates to the manipulation by the parasite Wolbachia of its host reproduction. Despite its widespread occurrence, the molecular basis of CI remains unclear and theoretical models have been proposed to understand the phenomenon. We consider in this paper the quantitative Lock-Key model which currently represents a good hypothesis that is consistent with the data available. CI is in this case modelled as the problem of covering the edges of a bipartite graph with the minimum number of chain subgraphs. This problem is already known to be NP-hard, and we provide an exponential algorithm with a non trivial complexity. It is frequent that depending on the dataset, there may be many optimal solutions which can be biologically quite different among them. To rely on a single optimal solution may therefore be problematic. To this purpose, we address the problem of enumerating (listing) all minimal chain subgraph covers of a bipartite graph and show that it can be solved in quasi-polynomial time. Interestingly, in order to solve the above problems, we considered also the problem of enumerating all the maximal chain subgraphs of a bipartite graph and improved on the current results in the literature for the latter. Finally, to demonstrate the usefulness of our methods we show an application on a real dataset.
Region-specific astrogliosis: differential vessel formation contributes to different patterns of astrogliosis in the cortex and striatum
Authors: Yang Haijie , An Jiawei , Choi Insup , Lee Kihwang , Park Sang-Myun , Jou Ilo , Joe Eun-Hye
Published: July 2020

Brain injury causes astrocytes to become reactive (astrogliosis). In this study, we compared astrogliosis in acutely injured cortex and striatum of adult FVB/N mice induced by stereotaxic injection of ATP, a component of danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Interestingly, MR analysis showed that same amount of ATP induced smaller damage in the cortex than in the striatum. However, in histological analysis, thick and dense scar-like astrogliosis was found in the injured cortex near meninges within 2 wk., but not in other regions, including the striatum and even the cortex near the corpus callosum for up to 30 d. There was little regional difference in the number of Ki67(+)-proliferating astrocytes or mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines. The most prominent difference between regions with and without scar-like astrogliosis was blood vessel formation. Blood vessels highly expressing collagen 1A1 formed densely near meninges, and astrocytes converged on them. In other regions, however, both blood vessels and astrocytes were relatively evenly distributed. Consistent with this, inhibition of blood vessel formation with the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-blocking antibody, Avastin, attenuated scar-like astrogliosis near meninges. These results indicate that region-specific astrogliosis occurs following brain injury, and that blood vessel formation plays a critical role in scar formation.
Molecular detection and genetic characteristics of Babesia gibsoni in dogs in Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Guo Wen-Ping , Xie Guang-Cheng , Li Dan , Su Meng , Jian Rui , Du Luan-Ying
Published: July 2020

Background

Several members of genus Babesia are important pathogens causing babesiosis in dogs. In China, at least five Babesia species have been described in dogs or ticks. This study sought to determine the prevalence and molecular characteristics of various Babesia spp. in dogs in cities in Shaanxi Province in China, including Xi’an and Hanzhong.

Methods

A total of 371 blood samples were collected from pet dogs presenting to veterinary clinics in the cities of Xi’an and Hanzhong in Shaanxi, China. Babesia spp. DNA was detected via amplification of partial 18S rRNA genes by semi-nested PCR. Almost full-length 18S rRNA, ITS, partial TRAP and complete cytb genes were recovered for analysis of the genetic characteristics and relationships with known isolates.

Results

A single species, Babesia gibsoni, was identified in dogs in Xi’an and Hanzhong. Consistently, B. gibsoni was also detected in 14 ticks collected from positive dogs. Sequence similarities and phylogenetic analysis suggested that the isolates identified herein showed a closer genetic relationship with isolates from East Asian countries rather than India, Bangladesh, or the USA. Sequence analysis based on tandem repeat analysis of the TRAP gene further revealed that specific haplotypes were circulating in both Xi’an and Hanzhong, with no specific regionality. In addition, 10.9% of all isolates with atovaquone (ATV)-resistance were identified because of M121I mutation in the deduced cytb protein.

Conclusions

This study revealed a high prevalence rate of Babesia infection. Babesia gibsoni was the only Babesia species identified in cases of canine babesiosis in the cities of Xi’an and Hanzhong cities in Shaanxi, China. In addition, the TRAP gene presented high genetic diversity across isolates. Such information is useful for elucidating the epidemiological characteristics of canine babesiosis, as well as the overall genetic diversity of Babesia spp. circulating in dog populations in Shaanxi Province.
Differences in serum markers of oxidative stress in well controlled and poorly controlled asthma in Sri Lankan children: a pilot study
Authors: Fernando Yenuli , Wickramasinghe Pujitha , De Silva Udani , Alahakoon Malintha , Anuradha K. W. D. A. , Handunnetti Shiroma
Published: July 2020

Background

Asthma is a disease characterised by hyper responsiveness and bronchoconstriction of airways, and is a major health burden globally. A dysfunction of the oxidant-antioxidant balance, termed oxidative stress, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of asthma. The present study aims to assess the changes in oxidative stress markers, namely nitric oxide metabolites and antioxidant capacity, in children with poorly controlled and well controlled asthma, in comparison to healthy controls.

Methods

The present study enrolled 72 children (ages 5-15 years) classified into three groups: (1) poorly controlled asthma (n = 20), (2) well controlled asthma (n = 24) and (3) healthy controls (n = 27). An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to record socio-demographic data of the participants. The serum concentrations of the oxidant markers (nitrite, nitrate and total nitric oxide metabolites [NOx]) were determined using the Griess test, and the total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) was determined using the ABTS decolorisation method. The concentrations of these markers were compared across the three groups.

Results

The three study groups were similar in terms of socio-demographic data. The differences across the three groups were statistically significant for serum concentrations of nitrate and NOx(but not nitrite) and serum TAOC. Further analyses showed that the disparity for nitrate and NOx concentrations was greatest between poorly controlled asthma and healthy controls (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001) compared to the well-controlled asthmatics and healthy controls (p = 0.036 and p = 0.049). A significant difference in serum nitrate and NOxconcentrations was not observed between the two asthma groups (p = 0.311 and 0.203). The TAOC were significantly lower in poorly controlled asthmatics as compared to well-controlled asthmatics (p = 0.003) and healthy controls (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the serum TAOC between healthy controls and well-controlled asthmatics (p = 0.496). These findings may indicate that it is perhaps the higher TAOC that contributes to the well controlled state of asthma.

Conclusions

The present study indicated that an imbalance of oxidants and antioxidants in the serum may have an underlying role in asthma pathophysiology, and how these markers may be effective in asthma management.
Reconstruction of right ventricular outflow tract stenosis and right ventricular failure after Ross procedure – comprehensive assessment of adult congenital heart disease with four-dimensional imaging: a case report
Authors: Takigami Masao , Itatani Keiichi , Nakanishi Naohiko , Morichi Hiroko , Nishino Teruyasu , Miyazaki Shohei , Nakaji Kosuke , Yamano Michiyo , Kajiyama Yo , Maeda Yoshinobu , Matoba Satoaki , Yaku Hitoshi , Yamagishi Masaaki
Published: July 2020

Background

Re-intervention after Ross procedure into the right ventricular outflow tract might be needed in patients in the long term. However, right ventricular outflow tract re-intervention indications are still unclear. Comprehensive assessment of total hemodynamics is needed.

Case summary

A 42-year-old Japanese woman was referred to our hospital for moderately severe pulmonary regurgitation and severe tricuspid regurgitation after a Ross–Konno procedure. Thirteen years after surgery, she developed atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter and complained of dyspnea. Electrophysiological studies showed re-entry circuit around the low voltage area of the lateral wall on the right atrium. Four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging revealed moderate pulmonary regurgitation, severe tricuspid regurgitation, and a dilated right ventricle. Flow energy loss in right ventricle calculated from four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging was five times higher than in normal controls, suggesting an overload of the right-sided heart system. Her left ventricular ejection fraction was almost preserved. Moreover, the total left interventricular pressure difference, which shows diastolic function, revealed that her sucking force in left ventricle was preserved. After the comprehensive assessments, we performed right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction, tricuspid valve annuloplasty, and right-side Maze procedure. A permanent pacemaker with a single atrial lead was implanted 14 days postoperatively. She was discharged 27 days postoperatively. Echocardiography performed 3 months later showed that the size of the dilated right ventricle had significantly reduced.

Discussion

A four-dimensional imaging tool can be useful in the decision of re-operation in patients with complex adult congenital heart disease. The optimal timing of surgery should be considered comprehensively.
Mesenchymal stem cells: current clinical progress in ARDS and COVID-19
Authors: Xiao Kun , Hou Fei , Huang Xiuyu , Li Binbin , Qian Zhi Rong , Xie Lixin
Published: July 2020

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) develops rapidly and has a high mortality rate. Survivors usually have low quality of life. Current clinical management strategies are respiratory support and restricted fluid input, and there is no suggested pharmacological treatment. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been reported to be promising treatments for lung diseases. MSCs have been shown to have a number of protective effects in some animal models of ARDS by releasing soluble, biologically active factors. In this review, we will focus on clinical progress in the use of MSCs as a cell therapy for ARDS, which may have clinical implications during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
TNFα-TNFR2 signaling pathway in control of the neural stem/progenitor cell immunosuppressive effect: Different experimental approaches to assess this hypothetical mechanism behind their immunological function
Authors: Shamdani Sara , Uzan Georges , Naserian Sina
Published: July 2020

Background

Stem cells have a vast range of functions from tissue regeneration to immunoregulation. They have the ability to modulate immune responses and change the progression of different inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. Tumor cells share many characteristics of stem/progenitor cells too. Both can inhibit effector T cells and other immune cells, while inducing regulatory T cells (T regs), thus, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory ones. In this context, some cytokines like TNFα are able to control the direction of the immune response. TNF-TNFR signaling plays a dual role: while the interaction of TNFα with TNFR1 mediates pro-inflammatory effects and cell death, its interaction with TNFR2 mediates anti-inflammatory effects and cell survival.

Main body

We think the expression of TNFR2 confers a level of immunomodulatory properties to its expressing cell and this could be crucially important, particularly, for stem/progenitor and tumor cells. This idea has been already proven in many TNFR2+ cells. Different immunosuppressive cells like T regs, regulatory B cells (B regs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) express TNFR2 and are able to suppress immune cells in presence of TNFα. The other category of rare cells that express TNFR2 is neural cells (NCs). Although little is known about the immunological function of these latter cells, few studies showed their progenitors are able to suppress T cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that the immunosuppressive effect of neural stem cells (NSCs) is potentially TNFα-TNFR2 dependent.

Conclusions

NSCs are among the rare cells that express TNFR2 marker and are able to supress T cells. We believe TNFα-TNFR2 immune checkpoint signaling pathway could be responsible for this immunosuppressive effect.
Formation and optimization of three-dimensional organoids generated from urine-derived stem cells for renal function in vitro
Authors: Sun Guoliang , Ding Beichen , Wan Meimei , Chen Liang , Jackson John , Atala Anthony
Published: July 2020

Background

Organoids play an important role in basic research, drug screening, and regenerative medicine. Here, we aimed to develop a novel kind of three-dimensional (3D) organoids generated from urine-derived stem cells (USCs) and to explore whether kidney-specific extracellular matrix (kECM) could enable such organoids for renal function in vitro.

Methods

USCs were isolated from human urine samples and cultured with kECM extraction to generate 3D organoids in vitro. Eight densities from 1000 to 8000 cells per organoids were prepared, and both ATP assay and Live/Dead staining were used to determine the optimal USC density in forming organoids and kECM additive concentration. The morphology and histology of as-made organoids were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H.E.) staining, immunofluorescence staining and whole mount staining. Additionally, RT-qPCR was implemented to detect renal-related gene expression. Drug toxicity test was conducted to evaluate the potential application for drug screening. The renal organoids generated from whole adult kidney cells were used as a positive control in multiple assessments.

Results

The optimized cell density to generate ideal USC-derived organoids (USC-organoids) was 5000 cells/well, which was set as applying density in the following experiments. Besides, the optimal concentration of kECM was revealed to be 10%. On this condition, Live/Dead staining showed that USC-organoids were well self-organized without significant cell death. Moreover, H.E. staining showed that compact and viable organoids were generated without obvious necrosis inside organoids, which were very close to renal organoids morphologically. Furthermore, specific proximal tubule marker Aquaporin-1 (AQP1), kidney endocrine product erythropoietin (EPO), kidney glomerular markers Podocin and Synaptopodin were detected positively in USC-organoids with kECM. Nephrotoxicity testing showed that aspirin, penicillin G, and cisplatin could exert drug-induced toxicity on USC-organoids with kECM.

Conclusions

USC-organoids could be developed from USCs via an optimal procedure. Combining culture with kECM, USC-organoid properties including morphology, histology, and specific gene expression were identified to be similar with real renal organoids. Additionally, USC-organoids posed kECM in vitro showed the potential to be a drug screening tool which might take the place of renal organoids to some extent in the future.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Overexpression of TGFβ1 in murine mesenchymal stem cells improves lung inflammation by impacting the Th17/Treg balance in LPS-induced ARDS mice
Authors: Chen Jianxiao , Zhang Xiwen , Xie Jianfeng , Xue Ming , Liu Ling , Yang Yi , Qiu Haibo
Published: July 2020

Background

T helper 17 cells (Th17)/regulatory T cells (Treg), as subtypes of CD4+ T cells, play an important role in the inflammatory response of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, there is still a lack of effective methods to regulate the differentiation balance of Th17/Treg. It was proven that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could regulate the differentiation of CD4+ T cells, but the mechanism is still unclear. TGFβ1, a paracrine cytokine of MSCs, could also regulate the differentiation of Th17/Treg but is lowly expressed in MSCs. Therefore, mouse MSCs (mMSCs) overexpressing TGFβ1 were constructed by lentivirus transduction and intratracheally transplanted into LPS-induced ARDS mice in our study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effects of mMSCs overexpressing TGFβ1 on inflammation and immunoregulation by impacting the Th17/Treg balance in LPS-induced ARDS mice.

Methods

mMSCs overexpressing TGFβ1 were constructed using lentiviral vectors. Then, mouse bone-marrow-derived MSCs (mBM-MSC) and mBM-MSC-TGFβ1 (mBM-MSC overexpressing TGFβ1) were transplanted intratracheally into ARDS mice induced by lipopolysaccharide. At 3 and 7 days after transplantation, the mice were sacrificed, and the homing of the mMSCs was assayed by ex vivo optical imaging. The relative numbers of Th17 and Treg in the lungs and spleens of mice were detected by FCM. IL-17A and IL-10 levels in the lungs of mice were analysed by western blot. Permeability and inflammatory cytokines were evaluated by analysing the protein concentration of BALF using ELISA. Histopathology of the lungs was assessed by haematoxylin and eosin staining and lung injury scoring. Alveolar lung fibrosis was assessed by Masson’s trichrome staining and Ashcroft scoring. The mortality of ARDS mice was followed until 7 days after transplantation.

Results

The transduction efficiencies mediated by the lentiviral vectors ranged from 82.3 to 88.6%. Overexpressing TGFβ1 inhibited the proliferation of mMSCs during days 5–7 (p < 0.05) but had no effect on mMSC differentiation or migration (p > 0.05). Compared to that in the LPS + mBM-MSC-NC group mice, engraftment of mMSCs overexpressing TGFβ1 led to much more differentiation of T cells into Th17 or Treg (p < 0.05), improved permeability of injured lungs (p < 0.05) and ameliorative histopathology of lung tissue in ARDS mice (p < 0.05). Moreover, IL-17A content was also decreased while IL-10 content was increased in the LPS + mBM-MSC-TGFβ1 group compared with those in the LPS + mBM-MSC-NC group (p < 0.05). Finally, mMSCs overexpressing TGFβ1 did not aggravate lung fibrosis in ARDS mice (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

MSCs overexpressing TGFβ1 could regulate lung inflammation and attenuate lung injuries by modulating the imbalance of Th17/Treg in the lungs of ARDS mice.
Management and prevention of anemia (acute bleeding excluded) in adult critical care patients
Authors: Lasocki Sigismond , Pène Frédéric , Ait-Oufella Hafid , Aubron Cécile , Ausset Sylvain , Buffet Pierre , Huet Olivier , Launey Yoann , Legrand Matthieu , Lescot Thomas , Mekontso Dessap Armand , Piagnerelli Michael , Quintard Hervé , Velly Lionel , Kimmoun Antoine , Chanques Gérald
Published: July 2020

Objective

Anemia is very common in critical care patients, on admission (affecting about two-thirds of patients), but also during and after their stay, due to repeated blood loss, the effects of inflammation on erythropoiesis, a decreased red blood cell life span, and haemodilution. Anemia is associated with severity of illness and length of stay.

Methods

A committee composed of 16 experts from four scientific societies, SFAR, SRLF, SFTS and SFVTT, evaluated three fields: (1) anemia prevention, (2) transfusion strategies and (3) non-transfusion treatment of anemia. Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) questions were reviewed and updated as needed, and evidence profiles were generated. Analysis of the literature and formulation of recommendations were then conducted according to the GRADE® methodology.

Results

The SFAR–SRLF guideline panel provided ten statements concerning the management of anemia in adult critical care patients. Acute haemorrhage and chronic anemia were excluded from the scope of these recommendations. After two rounds of discussion and various amendments, a strong consensus was reached for ten recommendations. Three of these recommendations had a high level of evidence (GRADE 1±) and four had a low level of evidence (GRADE 2±). No GRADE recommendation could be provided for two questions in the absence of strong consensus.

Conclusions

The experts reached a substantial consensus for several strong recommendations for optimal patient management. The experts recommended phlebotomy reduction strategies, restrictive red blood cell transfusion and a single-unit transfusion policy, the use of red blood cells regardless of storage time, treatment of anaemic patients with erythropoietin, especially after trauma, in the absence of contraindications and avoidance of iron therapy (except in the context of erythropoietin therapy).
Clinical characteristics and time trends of hospitalized methadone exposures in the United States based on the Toxicology Investigators Consortium (ToxIC) case registry: 2010–2017
Authors: Mehrpour Omid , Hoyte Christopher , Amirabadizadeh Alireza , Brent Jeffrey ,   On behalf of the Toxicology Investigators Consortium (ToxIC)
Published: July 2020

Background

Methadone is well known for its long duration of action and propensity for mortality after an overdose. The present research was aimed at evaluating the clinical manifestations and time trends of methadone exposure in patients in US hospitals.

Methods

We queried the American College of Medical Toxicology’s Toxicology Investigators Consortium case registry for all cases of methadone exposure between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2017. The collected information included demographic features, clinical presentations, therapeutic interventions, poisoning type (acute, chronic, or acute on chronic), and the reason(s) for exposure. Descriptive data and relative frequencies were used to investigate the participants’ characteristics.

Our data analysis was performed using SPSS version 19 and Prism software. The trends and clinical manifestations of methadone poisoning over the time period of the study were specifically investigated.

Results

Nine hundred and seventy-three patients who met our inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 41.9 ± 16.6 years (range: 11 months-78 years) were analyzed. Five hundred eighty-two (60.2%) were male. The highest rate of methadone poisoning was observed in 2013. There was an increasing rate of methadone exposures in 2010–2013, followed by a decline in 2014–2017. The most common clinical manifestations in methadone-poisoned patients were coma (48.6%) and respiratory depression (33.6%). The in-hospital mortality rate of methadone poisoning was 1.4%.

Conclusion

ToxIC Registry data showed that inpatient methadone exposures enhanced from 2010 to 2013, after which a reduction occurred in the years 2014 to 2017.
Impact of frailty on inpatient outcomes in thyroid cancer surgery: 10-year results from the U.S. national inpatient sample
Authors: Xu Dong , Fei Mengjia , Lai Yi , Shen Yuling , Zhou Jiaqing
Published: July 2020

Background

Frailty is linked to perioperative morbidity and mortality. We evaluated the impact of preoperative frailty on inpatient outcomes of patients undergoing surgery for thyroid malignancy.

Methods

This population-based, retrospective observational study extracted data of hospitalized patients who were 18 years and older with a primary diagnosis of thyroid cancer undergoing thyroidectomy from the US Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (2005–2014). Participants were stratified into frail and non-frail using the Johns Hopkins (ACG) frailty-defining diagnosis indicator. Study endpoints were in-hospital mortality, incidence of surgical and medical complications and prolonged length of stay. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to determine associations between the endpoints and frailty.

Results

Data of 38,202 patients were included. After adjusting for possible confounders, frailty remained significantly associated with higher odds of in-hospital mortality (OR: 3.839, 95% CI: 1.738–8.480), prolonged length of stay (OR: 5.420, 95% CI: 3.799–7.733), surgical complications (OR: 3.144, 95% CI: 2.443–4.045) and medical complications (OR: 6.734, 95% CI: 5.099–8.893) compared with non-frailty. In patients > age 65 years, adjusted odds ratio for frailty was 4.099 (95% CI: 1.736–9.679) for in-hospital mortality, 6.164 (95% CI: 3.514–10.812) for prolonged length of stay, 3.736 (95% CI: 2.620–5.328) for surgical complications, and 5.970, 95% CI: 4.088–8.720 for medical complications, all with significance.

Conclusion

Frailty is associated with increased risk for adverse inpatient outcomes, including prolonged hospital stay, surgical and medical complications and mortality independent of age and comorbidities in thyroid cancer patients undergoing surgery. Study findings may provide valuable information for preoperative risk stratification.
Range of plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels in hemodialysis patients at a high risk of 1-year mortality and their relationship with the nutritional status: a retrospective cohort study in one institute
Authors: Kumagai Etsuko , Hosohata Keiko , Furumachi Kazuhiro , Takai Shinji
Published: July 2020

Background

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels are used as a marker of heart failure, which is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in dialysis patients. BNP levels increase as renal function declines. The range of BNP levels associated with satisfactory longevity in dialysis patients currently remains unknown.

Methods

In total, 660 patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis were enrolled. BNP levels were measured at the end of the year and in a follow-up to assess 1-year mortality between 2008 and 2012. Patients were divided into six groups according to BNP levels: < 50 (reference), 50 to < 100, 100 to < 300, 300 to < 500, 500 to < 1000, and ≥ 1000 pg/mL. One-year mortality at each BNP level was analyzed using Cox’s proportional hazards model after adjustments for confounding factors.

Results

During the follow-up period, 78 (11.8%) deaths were recorded. After adjustments for confounding factors, such as gender, age, hemodialysis vintage, and primary disease, the risk of 1-year mortality was significantly high with BNP levels of 500 to < 1000 (hazard ratio [HR] 3.010; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.065–10.729; P = 0.037) and more than 1000 pg/mL (HR 5.291; 95%CI 2.014–18.170; P = 0.0003). After adjustments for Kt/V, the risk of 1-year mortality was also significantly high with BNP levels of 500 to < 1000 (HR 3.045; 95%CI 1.065–10.929; P = 0.037) and more than 1000 pg/mL (HR 5.221; 95%CI 1.943–18.165; P = 0.0006). Following further adjustments for nutritional factors, such as albumin levels, total cholesterol levels, the normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR), body mass index (BMI), and percent creatinine generation rate (%CGR), BNP levels of 500–1000 (HR 1.990; 95%CI 0.639–7.570; P = 0.244), and more than 1000 pg/mL (HR 2.100; 95%CI 0.663–8.105; P = 0.213) were no longer risk factors.

Conclusion

In dialysis patients, a BNP level ≥ 500 pg/mL is a risk factor for 1-year mortality. The risk associated with high BNP levels is reduced by nutritional factors, which suggests a relationship between high BNP levels and the nutritional status. In conclusion, efforts are needed to maintain BNP levels at lower than 500 pg/mL and improve the nutritional status.
Shear wave velocity by quantitative acoustic radiation force impulse in the placenta of normal and high-risk pregnancy
Authors: Hefeda Mohamed Mohamed , Zakaria Alshymaa
Published: July 2020

Background

Traditionally, the placental functional integrity is suggested by indirect ultrasound measurements like fetal growth, amniotic fluid index, and uterine and umbilical artery Doppler indices. Only recently the elasticity of the placenta is studied as a measure of placental consistency and biomechanical prosperities and may reflect the placental function. Shear wave velocity is the quantitative parameter of the shear wave elastography. A high-risk pregnancy is a situation which puts the mother, the fetus, or both at greater risk than a normal pregnancy.

Results

The shear wave velocity (SWV) showed no significant difference between the placenta of normal pregnancies in the second and third trimesters (0.85 ± 0.43 m/s and 0.89 ± 0.57 m/s, respectively). The placenta of patients with preeclampsia/eclampsia had high SWV in the second and third trimesters (2.13 ± 1.48 m/s and 2.23 ± 1.48 m/s) with a highly significant difference from the normal placenta (P < 0.001). The placentas with abnormal location (placenta previa) and penetration (placenta accreta) had higher SWV than the placenta of normal pregnancies. The mean SWV for placenta previa was 1.1 ± 0.74 m/s and 1.3 ± 0.81 m/s in the second and third trimesters, respectively, with a mildly significant difference with the normal placenta. The placenta accreta shows high mean SWV in the second and third trimesters (1.6 ± 0.65 m/s and 1.961.6 ± 0.65, respectively) which differed significantly (P < 0.001) from SWV in the normal placenta in the second and third trimesters.

Conclusion

Shear wave velocity measurement as the quantitative parameter of acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography reflects the placental elasticity in normal and high-risk pregnancies. The SWV increases in conditions like hypertension, preeclampsia, maternal renal disease, and diabetes and reflects the structural and biomechanical abnormalities in such diseases. High shear wave velocity correlates with the incidence of growth restriction and abnormal Doppler parameters especially in the hypertensive disease. The virtual touch quantification (VTQ) can be used as a complementary diagnostic and prognostic tool in high-risk pregnancy.
Role of Fibroscan for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in hepatitis C cirrhotic patients
Authors: Ebrahim Ahmed Elhosieny , Shehata Mona Ahmed Helmy , Abou-saif Sabry , Hamisa Manal fathy , Abd-Elsalam Sherief , Yousef Mohamed
Published: July 2020

Background

Liver cancer (HCC) ranks as the fifth most prevalent cancer worldwide and is ranked third as a common cause of death due to cancer. The benefit of Fibroscan in assessing the risk of developing liver cancer that was evaluated in this work was not fully demonstrated. The aim of this work was to study the role and clinical significance of Fibroscan for early detection of liver cancer in hepatitis C patients with cirrhosis.

Results

As regards binary logistic regression for predictors of HCC, it was found that Child C, AST, Fibroscan, and AFP were predictors for developing HCC. Liver stiffness values were significantly high in all groups, and the specific cutoff value for hepatocellular carcinoma detection was above 24 kPa in hepatitis C virus patients. Therefore, liver stiffness of more than 24 kPa can be considered as an independent risk factor for the development of liver cancer in HCV patients.

Conclusion

Liver stiffness of more than 24 kPa was an independent risk factor for developing new liver cancer in HCV patients.
Clinical Trials for Treatment and Prevention of HIV-Associated Malignancies in Sub-Saharan Africa: Building Capacity and Overcoming Barriers
Authors: Lin Lilie L. , Lakomy David S. , Chiao Elizabeth Y. , Strother Robert M. , Wirth Meg , Cesarman Ethel , Borok Margaret , Busakhala Naftali , Chibwesha Carla J. , Chinula Lameck , Ndlovu Ntokozo , Orem Jackson , Phipps Warren , Sewram Vikash , Vogt Samantha L. , Sparano Joseph A. , Mitsuyasu Ronald T. , Krown Susan E. , Gopal Satish
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to review the current status of clinical trials for HIV-associated malignancies in people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and efforts made by the AIDS Malignancy Consortium (AMC) to build capacity in SSA for HIV malignancy research.

METHODS

All malignancy-related clinical trials in 49 SSA countries on ClinicalTrials.gov were reviewed and evaluated for inclusion and exclusion criteria pertaining to HIV status. Additional studies by AMC in SSA were compiled from Web-based resources, and narrative summaries were prepared to highlight AMC capacity building and training initiatives.

RESULTS

Of 96 cancer trials identified in SSA, only 11 focused specifically on people living with HIV, including studies in Kaposi sarcoma, cervical dysplasia and cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and ocular surface squamous neoplasia. Recognizing the increasing cancer burden in the region, AMC expanded its clinical trial activities to SSA in 2010, with 4 trials completed to date and 6 others in progress or development, and has made ongoing investments in developing research infrastructure in the region.

CONCLUSION

As the HIV-associated malignancy burden in SSA evolves, research into this domain has been limited. AMC, the only global HIV malignancy-focused research consortium, not only conducts vital HIV-associated malignancies research in SSA, but also develops pathology, personnel, and community-based infrastructure to meet these challenges in SSA. Nonetheless, there is an ongoing need to build on these efforts to improve HIV-associated malignancies outcomes in SSA.
A New Insight into the Surgical Treatment of Primary Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Yoshiaki Tanno Fabio , Srougi Victor , Almeida Madson Q , Ide Yamauchi Fernando , Morbeck Almeida Coelho Fernando , Nishi Mirian Yumie , Claudia Nogueira Zerbini Maria , Silvia Correa Soares Iracy , Adelaide Albergaria Pereira Maria , Laiz Silva Charchar Helaine , Meneses Ferreira Lacombe Amanda , Balderrama Brondani Vania , Srougi Miguel , Carlos Nahas Willian , Mendonca Berenice B , Luis Chambô José , Candida Barisson Villares Fragoso Maria
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This prospective study presents the results of a new approach in the treatment of primary macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PMAH), with simultaneous total adrenalectomy of the larger adrenal gland and partial adrenalectomy of the contralateral adrenal gland (adrenal-sparing surgery).

Materials and Methods

We performed a prospective study including 17 patients with PMAH treated surgically with adrenal-sparing surgery in a tertiary referral hospital, with a median follow-up of 41 months. Clinical, hormonal, and genetic parameters were evaluated before surgery and during follow-up. All patients had at least 1 radiological examination before and after the procedure.

Results

Among the 17 patients, all but 1 patient had complete hypercortisolism control, and 12 recovered normal adrenal function after surgery. Significant improvement in clinical parameters was observed: weight loss (P = .004); reduction of both systolic (P = .001) and diastolic (P = .001) blood pressure; and reduction in the number of antihypertensive drugs (P < .001). Intra-, peri-, and postoperative complications were not observed.

Conclusion

Adrenal-sparing surgery is a safe and feasible procedure to treat patients with PMAH, providing a substantial chance of hypercortisolism control without the disadvantages of lifetime corticosteroid replacement.
Common principles of early mammalian embryo self-organisation
Authors: Płusa Berenika , Piliszek Anna
Published: July 2020

Pre-implantation mammalian development unites extreme plasticity with a robust outcome: the formation of a blastocyst, an organised multi-layered structure ready for implantation. The process of blastocyst formation is one of the best-known examples of self-organisation. The first three cell lineages in mammalian development specify and arrange themselves during the morphogenic process based on cell-cell interactions. Despite decades of research, the unifying principles driving early mammalian development are still not fully defined. Here, we discuss the role of physical forces, and molecular and cellular mechanisms, in driving self-organisation and lineage formation that are shared between eutherian mammals.
Functional Mesoporous Silica Nanomaterials for Catalysis and Environmental Applications
Authors: Singh Baljeet , Na Jongbeom , Konarova Muxina , Wakihara Toru , Yamauchi Yusuke , Salomon Carlos , Gawande Manoj B
Published: July 2020

Silica materials are used in a wide range of applications such as catalysis, photocatalysis, CO2 capture, and environmental remediation. These nanomaterials (NMs) have been extensively investigated since the advent of Stöber silica. However, the absence of pores and small surface area of Stöber silica limits its applications. Later, the discovery of MCM-41 type mesoporous silica using surfactants as structural directing agents became revolutionary in the field of silica NMs. This review focuses on the methods used for synthesizing mesoporous silica nanomaterials (NMs), especially mesoporous nanoparticles (NPs), and their applications in various fields including catalysis (i.e., support for nanoparticle catalysts) and environmental remediation (CO to CO2 conversion, volatile organic compound (VOC) removal, and CO2 capture). The current issues/challenges in realizing the practical applications of these conventional materials are also highlighted. This review also compares the characteristics and applications of MCM-41, SBA-15, and KCC-1 to demonstrate the effect of the morphology and pore architecture of silica on the properties of silica-based NMs. The scope for future developments in the synthesis and applications of silica materials with different pore sizes and morphologies is discussed.
The Effect of the Leaving Group in N-Heterocyclic Carbene-Catalyzed Nucleophilic Aromatic Substitution Reactions
Authors: Yasui Kosuke , Kamitani Miharu , Fujimoto Hayato , Tobisu Mamoru
Published: July 2020

We report here that the reactivity order of the leaving group is F > Cl ≥ Br > I in N-heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed CSNAr reactions of aryl halides bearing an α,β-unsaturated amide. Based on a qualitative Marcus analysis, the nature of the transition state in this catalytic CSNAr is primarily determined by the potential energy of the Meisenheimer complex, even though it is not involved as a discrete intermediate in the reaction pathway.
Όταν η κατασκευή σεισμογράφου συναντά το Μουσείο Φυσικών Επιστημών Μαγούλας!
Authors: Βαγενάς Αθανάσιος , Καραμπέκος Γεώργιος , Μανταλιά Παναγιώτα
Published: July 2020

Οι σεισμοί έχουν ως κύρια αιτία της δημιουργίας τους τις κινήσεις των λιθοσφαιρικών πλακών, κατά συνέπεια οι ζώνες έντονης σεισμικής δράσης ταυτίζονται με τις παρυφές των πλακών. Ο ελληνικός χώρος βρίσκεται στα όρια επαφής και σύγκλισης της Ευρασιατικής με την Αφρικανική πλάκα, γι’ αυτό είναι χώρος με έντονη σεισμικότητα. Η Θεσσαλία έχει ωστόσο 2 μεγάλα ρήγματα τα οποία έχουν 300 χρόνια να δώσουν κάποιο φαινόμενο. Οι μαθητές εξοικειώνονται με τη σεισμολογία και με τα δεδομένα που προκύπτουν από τη λειτουργία του σεισμογράφου. Λειτουργούν ως πολλαπλασιαστές και μεταφέρουν όλη αυτή την πολύτιμη πληροφορία στις οικογένειές τους. Επίσης, μαθαίνουν πώς να είναι καλύτερα προστατευμένοι στην περίπτωση ενός σεισμού και αυτό με τη σειρά του επικοινωνείτε και πέρα από το σχολικό περιβάλλον.
Δημιουργία ενός συστήματος πτήσης για προσγείωση σε προκαθορισμένες συντεταγμένες
Authors: Κανδρέλη Παρασκευή – Μαρίνα , Λώλος Κωνσταντίνος , Καλαμπόκης Νικόλαος , Οικονόμου Γεώργιος , Πήλιος Κωνσταντίνος , Μαρέτας Νικόλαος , Σκαργιώτης Γεώργιος , Κονετάς Δημήτριος
Published: July 2020

Αντικείμενο μελέτης της παρακάτω εργασίας αποτελεί η δημιουργία ενός συστήματος πτήσης αυτόνομης προσγείωσης σε προκαθορισμένες συντεταγμένες για τον έγκαιρο εφοδιασμό των επιζώντων μέσω αέρος σε καταστάσεις υψηλού κινδύνου. Έτσι, τέθηκε το ερευνητικό ερώτημα “τι μορφή έχει και πώς λειτουργεί ένα τέτοιο σύστημα πτήσης;". Στην τρέχουσα εργασία θα παρουσιαστούν τα αποτελέσματα του εγχειρήματος Zephyrus II στο πλαίσιο του διαγωνισμού CanSat in Greece 2018, στη δεύτερη συνεχόμενη συμμετοχή της ομάδας. Αρχικά, μέσα από εκτενή έρευνα και μελέτη αποφασίστηκε η κατασκευή ενός μικροδορυφόρου -εκτυπωμένου με 3D εκτυπωτή- ενωμένου με αλεξίπτωτο παραπέντε που ελέγχεται από σερβομηχανισμό. Ο κεντρικός χειρισμός γίνεται από μικροεπεξεργαστή -γραμμένο σε κώδικα C++- πάνω στον μικροδορυφόρο, που παίρνει δεδομένα από GPS και επιταχυνσιόμετρο-γυροσκόπιο-μαγνητόμετρο (ΕΓΜ).Έτσι, καθώς το GPS και το ΕΓΜ βρίσκουν την απόλυτη θέση του συστήματος, ο μικροεπεξεργαστής τη συγκρίνει με τις προεπιλεγμένες συντεταγμένες, υπολογίζει την απόσταση σε μέτρα και την απόκλιση σε μοίρες και στέλνει εντολές στον σερβομηχανισμό. Για την υλοποίηση αυτής της ιδέας, διεκπεραιώθηκε μια σειρά πειραμάτων, όπου δοκιμάστηκαν η σταθερότητα, η ευελιξία και η οριζόντια μετατόπιση, προκειμένου να καθοριστούν οι τελικές διαστάσεις του συστήματος πτήσης. Τα αποτελέσματα είναι πολύ θετικά, αν ληφθεί υπ' όψιν ότι παρόμοια επίπεδα επιτυχίας έχουν επιτευχθεί μόνο από πανεπιστήμια αεροναυπηγικής στο εξωτερικό. Συμπερασματικά, το παραπάνω σύστημα πτήσης θα ήταν μια ιδανική λύση για διανομή προμηθειών σε επείγουσες καταστάσεις, χάρη στην δυνατότητά του να προσγειωθεί αυτόνομα και στον απλό σχεδιασμό του που επιτρέπει τη μαζική παραγωγή του.
Η Ελλάδα μέσα από τα μάτια της Πληροφορικής και των Βιντεοπαιχνιδιών
Authors: Κώστας Γεώργιος-Αλέξανδρος , Λαλιώτου Ευσταθία
Published: July 2020

Το αντικείμενο που πραγματεύεται η παρούσα εργασία είναι η δημιουργία ενός διαδραστικού βιντεοπαιχνιδιού με στόχο την προβολή γνωστών τουριστικών προορισμών της Ελλάδας και την ανάδειξη της καθοριστικής συμβολής της χώρας μας στην παγκόσμια πολιτιστική κληρονομιά και εκπονήθηκε στο πλαίσιο της Νεοελληνικής Γλώσσας Γ’ Γυμνασίου. Το βιντεοπαιχνίδι ζητεί από τον παίκτη να ακολουθήσει την πορεία ενός αλλοεθνούς επισκέπτη σε διάφορες περιοχές και αξιοθέατα της Ελλάδας, όπως η Ακρόπολη και ο Λευκός Πύργος. Το παιχνίδι, είναι τρίτου προσώπου, δισδιάστατο, με Retro γραφικά και μπορεί να “τρέξει” σε περιβάλλον Windows. Δημιουργημένο με το λογισμικό Unity, το παιχνίδι βασίζεται στο συνδυασμό εικόνας, ήχου και λόγου για να δημιουργήσει ένα αποτέλεσμα φιλικό προς το χρήστη και ιδίως τα παιδιά. Το πλεονέκτημα της εν λόγω υλοποίησης έγκειται στο γεγονός ότι ο τελικός χρήστης δεν είναι απλώς παθητικός αποδέκτης πληροφοριών, αλλά μέσω των πραγματικά ανεξάντλητων δυνατοτήτων αλληλεπίδρασης που τα σημερινά βιντεοπαιχνίδια προσφέρουν, ο ίδιος θα κινητοποιηθεί να αναζητήσει την πληροφορία, έτσι ώστε να του εντυπωθούν ορισμένες γνώσειςτόσο για τη χώρα μας όσο και για την ουσιαστική επίδραση που αυτή άσκησε στη διαμόρφωσητου πανανθρώπινου κώδικα αξιών. Ένα ακόμη πλεονέκτημα της παρουσίασης πληροφοριών υπό τη μορφή αυτή είναι η πληθώρα δυνατοτήτων επέκτασης που διαθέτει μια τέτοια υλοποίηση. Το συγκεκριμένο είδος παιχνιδιού διαθέτει μεγάλο εύρος εφαρμογών. Αρχικά, μπορεί να συμβάλλει αποτελεσματικά στην προβολή της χώρας μας στους αλλοδαπούς -και όχι μόνο- τουρίστες. Επίσης, μπορεί να αξιοποιηθεί στο πλαίσιο ευρωπαϊκών προγραμμάτων συνεργασίας σχολείων ως ένας τρόπος διάδοσης πληροφοριών σχετικά με τα αξιοθέατα και την κουλτούρα των συμμετεχουσών χωρών.
Ο αριθμός π=3,14
Authors: Αντύπα Αναστασία , Πιτσούνης Κώστας
Published: July 2020

Ο λόγος της περιφέρειας του κύκλου προς την διάμετρό του ονομάζεται π. Ο υπολογισμός της τιμής του απασχολεί χιλιάδες χρόνια την ανθρωπότητα από τον Πυθαγόρα έως τον Αρχιμήδη και από την αρχαιότητα μέχρι σήμερα. Όλοι οι κύκλοι ανεξαρτήτου διαμέτρου έχουν το ίδιο π και αυτό ισούται κατά προσέγγιση με 3,14. Άλλοι επιστήμονες πάλι ορίζουν τη σταθερά pi ως τον αριθμό που το γινόμενο του με τη διάμετρο, συμπίπτει με την πλήρη στροφή που κάνει ένας κύκλος για να κυλίσει πάνω σε μια ευθεία γραμμή. Με αρκετές στρογγυλοποιήσεις, το π ισούται με 3,14 όμως στην πραγματικότητα τα δεκαδικά του ψηφία είναι άπειρα και οι μαθηματικοί και όλοι όσοι έχουν ασχοληθεί με την αναζήτησή τους, δεν έχουν εμφανίσει παρά μόνο ένα μέρος από αυτά.
Πειραματική μελέτη ενός προσεγγιστικού αλγορίθμου για το πρόβλημα του «περιοδεύοντος πωλητή»
Authors: Ροντογιάννης Δημήτριος , Καράμπελας Ανδρέας
Published: July 2020

Το πρόβλημα του «Περιοδεύοντος Πωλητή» (Travelling Salesman Problem,TSP) είναι ένα από τα σημαντικότερα αλγοριθμικά προβλήματα. Οι υπάρχοντες αλγόριθμοι έχουν κακή πολυπλοκότητα, μπορούν δηλαδή να λύσουν το TSP σε αποδεκτό χρόνο μόνο για μικρό αριθμό πόλεων. Λόγω της δυσκολίας του TSP, έχουν προταθεί προσεγγιστικοί αλγόριθμοι που είναι πιο αποτελεσματικοί από τους υπάρχοντες ακριβείς αλγορίθμους, αλλά των οποίων οι λύσεις δεν είναι υποχρεωτικά βέλτιστες. Ο πιο γνωστός προσεγγιστικός αλγόριθμος για το TSP είναι ο αλγόριθμος του Χριστοφίδη. Ο σκοπός της παρούσης εργασίας είναι η πειραματική μελέτη του αλγορίθμου του Χριστοφίδη σε σχέση με έναν ακριβή αλγόριθμο και εν συνεχεία η διερεύνηση της δυνατότητας βελτίωσης της προσέγγισης που επιτυγχάνεται. Υλοποιούμε έναν αλγόριθμο που επιστρέφει τη βέλτιστη λύση στο TSP και έχει εκθετική πολυπλοκότητα, καθώς και τοναλγόριθμο του Χριστοφίδη, ο οποίος έχει πολύ καλύτερη πολυπλοκότητα αλλά επιστρέφει μια προσεγγιστική λύση. Θεωρούμε διαφορετικές τοποθετήσεις πόλεων στο επίπεδο, καιεξετάζουμε την προσέγγιση που επιτυγχάνει ο αλγόριθμος του Χριστοφίδη σε σχέση με τη βέλτιστη. Προτείνουμε μια επέκταση στον αλγόριθμο του Χριστοφίδη την οποία εξετάζουμε πειραματικά και δείχνουμε ότι οι προσεγγιστικές λύσεις που επιστρέφει είναι κατά μέσο όρο καλύτερες από τον πρωτότυπο αλγόριθμο. Αυτή η επέκταση θα μπορούσε να χρησιμοποιηθεί στις περιπτώσεις εκείνες που είναι αναγκαίο να εξασφαλίσουμε μια καλύτερη προσεγγιστική λύση από αυτή που επιτυγχάνει ο αλγόριθμος του Χριστοφίδη.
A dataset for the perceived vulnerability to disease scale in Japan before the spread of COVID-19
Authors: Yamada Yuki , Xu Haoqin , Sasaki Kyoshiro
Published: July 2020

The COVID-19 outbreak is a worldwide medical and epidemiological catastrophe, and the number of psychological studies concerning COVID-19 is growing daily. Such studies need baseline data from before the COVID-19 outbreak for comparison, but such datasets have not yet been accumulated and shared. Here, we provide a dataset on the perceived vulnerability to disease scale for 1382 Japanese participants obtained through an online survey conducted in 2018 that will be useful for comparison with current or post-COVID-19 perceived vulnerability to disease data.