bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Journey Mapping To Investigate Quality and Cultural Safety in Burn Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Families – Development, Application and Implications
Authors: Fraser Sarah , Mackean Tamara , Grant Julian , Hunter Kate , Ryder Courtney , Kelly Janet , Holland Andrew JSA , Griffin Bronwyn , Clapham Kathleen , Teague Warwick J , Darton Anne , Ivers Rebecca Q
Published: July 2021

Background

Quality and safety in Australian healthcare is inequitably distributed, highlighted by gaps in the provision of quality care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Burns have potential for long-term adverse outcomes, and quality care, including culturally safe care, is critical to recovery. This study aimed to develop and apply an Aboriginal Patient Journey Mapping (APJM) tool to investigate the quality of healthcare systems for burn care with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Study Design

Interface research methodology, using biomedical and cultural evidence, informed the modification of an existing APJM tool. The tool was then applied to the journey of one family accessing a paediatric tertiary burn care site. Data were collected through yarning with the family, case note review and clinician interviews. Data were analysed using Emden’s core story and thematic analysis methods. Reflexivity informed consideration of the implications of the APJM tool, including its effectiveness and efficiency in eliciting information about quality and cultural safety.
Results

Through application of a modified APJM tool, gaps in quality care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families were identified at the individual, service and system levels. Engagement in innovative methodology incorporating more than biomedical standards of care, uncovered critical information about the experiences of culturally safe care in complex patient journeys.
Conclusion

Based on our application of the tool, APJM can identify and evaluate specific aspects of culturally safe care as experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and be used for quality improvement.
Rear 4-minute Schirmer Test, A Modified Indicator of Schirmer Test in Diagnosing Dry Eye
Authors: Wang Xin , Fan Xiaojing , Wu Yaying , Mou Yujie , Min Jinjin , Jin Xiuming
Published: July 2021

This study was desgined to find a reliable and convenient indicator (a modified Schirmer test) to improve the accuracy of assessing tear secretion and diagnosing dry eye. This is a prospective continuous study on 180 volunteers. Schirmer test I without anesthesia was performed once on both eyes to determine the value of normal Schirmer test. The values of tear secretion were recorded in each minute. Examined individuals also underwent other examinations: the standard patient evaluation of eye dryness (SPEED), the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), fluorescein stain, tear film breakup time (BUT), and Meibomian gland (MG)grading. The participants were divided into two groups: dry eye (DE) groupand non-dry eye (ND) group. The mean age was 39.41±14.05 years in DE group and 37.62±13.17 in ND group. The value of 2-minute Schirmer test, rear 3-minute Schirmer test, rear 4-minute Schirmer test and 5-minute Schirmer test was 5.36±4.63, 5.57±2.11, 7.21±4.13 and 10.93±6.30 respectively in DE group. And these indicators was 8.25±6.80, 2.73±2.31, 7.36±3.42, 11.84±6.16 in ND group. The rear 4-minute ST has significant correlation with OSDI and SPEED in DE group (r =-0.242/-0.183) and in ND gruop(r =-0.316 /-0.373). Meanwhile, rear 4-minute ST had stronger connection with fBUT(r =0.159) and MG (r =-0.162) in DE gruop. And rear 4-minute ST also had higher accuracy in diagnosing severe dry eye and borderline dry eye.The rear 4-minute Schirmer test may be a supplement indicator in assessing tear secretion and diagnosing dry eye.
Cardiac MyD88 Mediates Inflammatory Injury and Adverse Remodeling in Diabetes
Authors: Luo Wu , Wu Gaojun , Chen Xiaojun , Zhang Qiuyan , Zou Chunpeng , Liu Jun , Chattipakorn Nipon , Wang Yi , Liang Guang
Published: July 2021

Background: Hyperglycemia-associated inflammation contributes to adverse remodeling and fibrosis in diabetic heart. MyD88 is an adapter protein of many Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and is recruited to TLRs to initiate inflammatory signalling pathway in endotoxin-activated innate immunity. However, the role of MyD88 in diabetic cardiomyopathy is unknown. Methods: For genetic deficiency, cardiomyocyte-specific MyD88 knockout and littermate control mice were induced type 1 diabetes (T1D) by intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg/kg/day streptozotocin for five days consecutive and then fed for 4 moths. For pharmacological inhibition, MyD88 inhibitor LM8 were administered daily for 8 weeks by oral gavage in T1D and T2D (db/db) mice. The effect of genetic and pharmacological inhibition MyD88 to myocardial injure which were induced by 33 mM glucose in vivo.Results: In this study, we first found that MyD88 expression was increased in cardiomyocytes of diabetic mouse hearts. Cardiomyocyte-specific MyD88 knockout protected mice against hyperglycemia-induced cardiac inflammation, injury, hypertrophy, and fibrosis in T1D model. In cultured cardiomyocytes, MyD88 inhibition either by siRNA or by small-molecular inhibitor LM8 markedly blocked TLR4-MyD88 complex formation, reduced pro-inflammatory MAPKs/NF-κB cascade activation and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression under high glucose condition. Moreover, pharmacologic inhibition of MyD88 by LM8 showed significantly anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertrophic and anti-fibrotic effects in the hearts of both T1D and T2D mice. These beneficial effects of MyD88 inhibition were correlated to the reduced activation of TLR4-MyD88-MAPKs/NF-κB signaling pathways in the hearts.Conclusion: Taken together, MyD88 in cardiomyocytes mediates diabetes-induced cardiac inflammatory injuries and genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of MyD88 shows significantly cardioprotective effects, indicating MyD88 as a potential therapeutic target for diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Profiling the Urinary Microbiota in Men with Positive versus Negative PD-L1 Expression for Non-muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Chen Chunxiao , Huang Zehai , Huang Pengcheng , Li Kun , Zeng Jiarong , Wen Yuehui , Li Biao , Zhao Jie , Wu Peng
Published: July 2021

Background

Urinary microbiota is associated with the recurrence of bladder cancer, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The notion that microbiota can upregulate PD-L1 expression in tumors to promote immune escape have been demonstrated. We hypothesized that the urinary microbiota may be involved in the recurrence and progression of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) by upregulating the PD-L1 expression. For proving this hypothesis, we firstly performed this study to characterize the potential urinary microbial community possibly associated with PD-L1 expression in male patients with NMIBC.
Results

The subjects (aged 43–79 years) based on their PD-L1 immunohistochemical results were divided into PD-L1-positive group (P group) and PD-L1-negative group (N group) respectively. We observed that P group exhibited higher species richness and diversity (based on Observed species and Ace index, both P < 0.05). Significantly different composition of urinary microbiota was found between P group and N group (based on weighted Unifrac and unweighted Unifrac distances metric, both P < 0.05). Enrichment of some bacterial genera (e.g., Leptotrichia, Roseomonas, and Propionibacterium) and decrease of some bacterial genera (e.g.,Prevotella and Massilia) were observed in P group as compared with N group. These findings indicate that these genera may affect the expression of PD-L1 through some mechanisms to be studied. PICRUSt analysis showed that several pathways involved in the metabolism of chemical compounds and immune-related disease were enriched in the PD-L1 negative group.
Conclusion

Our data indicate that urinary microbiota may be an important determinant of PD-L1 expression in male NMIBC patients. The findings of our study may facilitate subsequent study on the role and mechanism of urinary microbiota in the recurrence of NMIBC and may also pave a new way for the better application of PD1 or PD-L1 blockers in bladder cancer in the future.
Identification of Mycoplasma Species and Related Organisms From Ruminants in England and Wales During 2005 – 2019
Authors: Deeney Alannah S. , Collins Rachael , Ridley Anne M.
Published: July 2021

Background: Mycoplasma species have been associated with economically important diseases affecting ruminants worldwide and include contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) and contagious agalactia, listed by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). The Mycoplasma Team at the Animal and Plant Health Agency provides an identification service for Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma species of veterinary importance to the United Kingdom (UK), supporting the detection of new and emerging pathogens, as well as contributing to the surveillance of endemic, and the OIE listed diseases exotic to the UK. Mycoplasma and other Mollicutes species were identified from diagnostic samples from farmed ruminants in England and Wales using a combination of culture and 16S rRNA gene-based PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, submitted between 2005 and 2019.Results: A total of 5578 mollicutes identifications, which include mycoplasmas and the related acholeoplasmas and ureaplasmas, were made from farmed ruminant animals during the study period. Throughout the study period, the pathogen Mycoplasma bovis was consistently the most frequently identified species, accounting for 1411 (32%) of 4447 molecular identifications in cattle, primarily detected in the lungs of pneumonic calves, followed by joints and milk of cattle showing signs of arthritis and mastitis, respectively. M. bovirhinis, M. alkalescens, M. dispar, M. arginini and Ureaplasma diversum, were also common. Mixed species, principally M. bovis with M. alkalescens, M. arginini or M. bovirhinis were also prevalent, particularly from respiratory samples. The non-cultivable blood-borne haemoplasmas Candidatus ‘Mycoplasma haemobos’ and Mycoplasma wenyonii were identified from cattle, with the latter species most often associated with milk-drop. M. ovipneumoniae was the predominant species identified from sheep and goats experiencing respiratory disease, while M. conjunctivae preponderated in ocular samples. The UK remains free of the ruminant mycoplasmas listed by OIE. Conclusions: The continued high prevalence of M. bovis identifications confirms its ongoing dominance and importance as a significant pathogen of cattle in England and Wales, particularly in association with respiratory disease. M. ovipneumoniae has seen a general increase in prevalence in recent years, notably in coughing lambs and should therefore be considered as a primary differential diagnosis of respiratory disease in small ruminants.
Bioelectrical impedance phase angle as a diagnostic indicator in thyroid cancer
Authors: Du Zhenhong , Xiao Zhanwen , Zhu Jingqiang
Published: July 2021

Background: Bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) is a non-invasive and easy-to-use technique to distinguish tissue properties. Phase angle, determined by BIS, detects changes in tissue electrical properties. We aimed to study the feasibility and validity of phase angle in diagnosis of thyroid cancer for the first time. Methods: 226 invitro thyroid specimens in 210 patients from Department of Thyroid in West China Hospital of Sichuan University from March to November 2013 were collected. According to the location from thyroid cancer, thyroid specimens were divided into four groups: A, B, C and D. All of the groups were analyzed with phase angles respectively. The results were compared with final pathologic diagnosis. Results: Results showed that the phase angle is the characteristic parameter. The rank-sum test showed, the significant difference between the four groups and between two groups (P<0.05), with statistical significance. Our study showed 86% sensitivity and 72% specificity of mean phase angle difference (MPAD). The corresponding positive and negative predictive values were 78% and 82%, overall accuracy was 80%, the area under the ROC curve is 0.838. Conclusions: The study demonstrated that phase angle can be used to diagnose thyroid cancer. With further research, the phase angle may be a potential diagnostic indicator for the thyroid cancer.
Effect of Volcano-like Textured Coated Tools on Machining of Ti6Al4V: An Experimental and Simulative Investigation
Authors: Zhou Yun , Fu Yonghong , Yang Jie
Published: July 2021

In this work, the main aim is to reduce the adhesion and wear that happened during machining of the Ti6Al4V alloy by employing volcano-like texture on the rake face of coated tool. A combination of experimental and simulative investigation was adopted. DEFORM-3D software with updated Lagrangian formulation was used for numerical simulation, and the thermo-mechanical analysis was performed using Johnson-Cook material model to predict the cutting temperature, cutting forces, chip morphology and tool wear. In cutting experiments, volcano-like textures with different area densities (10%, 20%, 30%) were fabricated by fiber laser on the rake face of cemented carbide tools close to the main cutting edge. Then, these textured tools were deposited with CrAlN coating through cathodic vacuum arc ion plating technique. Experiments in cutting Ti6Al4V alloy were carried out with the textured coated tools and non-textured coated tool under dry and wet cutting conditions. Then, the chip morphology, chip size and tool wear were investigated. The results showed that textured coated tools were superior to conventional tool. Especially in wet cutting, compared with those of non-textured coated tool, the adhesion area and the chip curling radius of the coated tool with texture area density of 20% (VCT2) were reduced by 31.2% and 49.7%, respectively. Therefore, VCT2 tool showed a better cutting performance. Finally, the mechanisms of textured coated tools under dry and wet cutting conditions were proposed.
Isolation and molecular identification of microorganisms isolated from soils contaminated with heavy metals in Mosul city
Authors: Qasim Sana , Fadhel Mazin N. , Khalil Mohammad I.
Published: July 2021

This research is concerned with organisms isolated from soils contaminated with heavy metals in industrial and residential areas in the city of Mosul, the center of Nineveh Governorate, and the diagnosis of these organisms using molecular biology technique. Samples were collected from four locations in the city between the industrial area and residential neighborhoods. Soil samples were analyzed and dilutions were prepared, then the dilutions were grown on potato extract and dextrose (PDA) medium for the development of fungi and Nutrient agar for bacterial development. The dilutions were planted by casting method by three replications, then the process of purifying the fungal and bacterial colonies was carried out using the traditional methods. For the purpose of diagnosing these pure colonies using PCR technique, colonies of fungi were grown on the medium of PDA, and bacteria were grown on the medium of nutritious broth. As a result, nine fungal species were diagnosed, two of them are new undiagnosed genera that have been registered in the gene bank, four of them contain genetic mutations, and three of them are known and previously diagnosed fungi. As for bacteria, two new strains were isolated and registered in the gene bank among the four types that were diagnosed. And some of these genera exhibited severe resistance to antibiotics, while others showed moderate resistance, in contrast to the control, which was very sensitive to antibiotics.
Graded Reconstruction Strategy Using a Multi-Layer Technique without Lumbar Drainage After Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery
Authors: Ha Chang-Min , Hong Sang Duk , Choi Jung Won , Seol Ho Jun , Nam Do-Hyun , Lee Jung-Il , Kong Doo-Sik
Published: July 2021

Introduction Sellar reconstruction following endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) requires modification based on the degree of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. For high-flow (grade II or III) intraoperative CSF leak, lumbar drainage (LD), in addition to the multi-layer closing technique, is generally recommended. However, LD has complications occasionally, including post-puncture headache, over-drainage symptoms, and increased length of stay (LOS). We retrospectively evaluated the outcome of our graded reconstruction strategy using a multi-layer technique with a novel material, without LD, after EES.Methods Ninety-seven patients who underwent EES with grade II or III intraoperative CSF leak between June 2020 and March 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. For grade II CSF leak, fibrin sealant and a nasoseptal flap (NSF) were placed; for grade III CSF leak, a multi-layer technique was utilized in combination with collagen matrix, an acellular dermal graft, injectable hydroxyapatite (HXA), and an NSF. Postoperatively, routine LD was not performed.Results This study included 48 (49.5%) grade II and 49 (50.5%) grade III CSF leaks. Upon follow-up period (mean, 8.7 months), no patient showed postoperative CSF leak in either group. The postoperative LOS was not significantly different between the grade II (6.68 [range, 3–14] days) and grade III CSF leak groups (7.38 [range, 4–15] days) (p>0.05). No HXA-associated complications occurred.ConclusionsA graded surgical repair strategy after EES could avoid postoperative CSF leak. Combined use of injectable HXA and acellular dermal grafts for high-flow CSF leak can limit LD requirement, without significant risks.
A Study of the SORL1 Gene in the Pathogenesis of Late-onset Alzheimer’s Disease by Affecting the Expression of BDNF
Authors: Zhao Mingri , Liu Jiangfeng , He Jingli , Chen Xun , Feng Yanjin , Wang Chen , Liu Wanxi , Liu Xionghao , Liu Mujun , Hou Deren
Published: July 2021

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive memory impairment and other cognitive disorders. It is divided into Familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD) and Sporadic Alzheimer's disease (SAD). SAD is also called delayed Late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD). Sortilin Related Receptor 1 (SORL1) is a high-risk pathogenic gene of LOAD, which can participate in the occurrence and development of AD by affecting the transport and metabolism of intracellular β-amyloid precursor protein (APP). The expression of SORL1 is significantly downregulated in patients with LOAD.ResultsIn the SORL1 knockout (SORL1 KO) mouse model constructed by CRISPR/cas9, we found that the expression of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the brain of SORL1 KO mice was significantly down-regulated and Amyloid β-protein (Aβ) deposition was found in the brain ofSORL1 KO mice. Through the SORL1 knockdown N2a cell model constructed by shRNA, we also found that when the SORL1 expression was knocked down, the BDNF expression was also downregulated and the cell viability decreased. The results of immunohistochemistry and in vitro cell model experiments suggest that the downregulation of BDNF caused by SORL1 knockdown may be mainly achieved by affecting the expression and distribution of N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDAR).ConclusionsSORL1 knockout changes the expression and distribution of NMDAR in cells, downregulates the expression of BDNF, and thus affects the learning and memory of mice.
An Electromagnetic Cloaking Scheme Using Magnetic Dipole Based Scattering Cancellation
Authors: VP Sarin , PV Vinesh , M Manoj , P Mohanan , K Vasudevan
Published: July 2021

This paper explores the possibility of creating a cylindrical electromagnetic cloaking scheme using resonant magnetic dipole excitation. Split-ring resonators are arranged around the cylindrical metal target to generate strong subwavelength resonant magnetic dipole moments to cancel far-field scattered power from the target. We used the multipole scattering theory to identify the actual reason behind scattering cancellation. The scattering from resonant circulating magnetic dipoles interferes destructively with that from the non-resonant electric dipole moments of the target resulting in a significant reduction in the Scattering Cross Section. The results are verified using full-wave simulation software and subsequently validated with backscattering measurements inside an anechoic chamber.
TRPM7 Silencing Modulates Glucose Metabolic Reprogramming to Inhibit the Growth of Ovarian Cancer by Enhancing AMPK Activation to Promote HIF-1α Degradation.
Authors: Liu Lu , Chen Yongchang , Xia Longzheng , Wu Nayiyuan , Wang Ying , Li He , Chen Xue , Zhang Xiaoye , Liu Zhaoyi , Zhu Miaochen , Liao Qianjin , Wang Jing
Published: July 2021

BackgroundTumor cell metabolic reprogramming is crucial for the malignant behavior of cancer cells by promoting their proliferation. However, little is known on how transient receptor potential 7 (TRPM7) modulates metabolic reprogramming in ovarian cancer.MethodsThe effects of TRPM7 silencing on transcriptome profile, glucose uptake, lactic acid production, extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), oxygen consumption rate (OCR), intracellular ROS and ATP levels, and NAD+/NADH ratios in ovarian cancer cells were examined. The impacts of TRPM7 silencing on the levels of glycolysis-related HK2, PDK1 and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS)-related IDH3B and UQCRC2, HIF-1α expression and AMPK phosphorylation were determined in ovarian cancer. The effect of AMPK activity on HIF-1α ubiquitination degradation was investigated in ovarian cancer cells.ResultsCompared with the control, TRPM7 silencing suppressed the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells and promoted their apoptosis by shifting preferable glycolysis to OXPHOS. In parallel, TRPM7 silencing decreased the glucose uptake of tumor-bearing mice and TRPM7 levels were negatively correlated with IDH3B and UQCRC2, but positively with HK2 and PDK1 expression in ovarian cancer tissues. Mechanistically, TRPM7 silencing significantly increased AMPK phosphorylation and decreased HIF-1α protein levels in ovarian cancer, particularly in HIF-1α silencing cells. The shifting from glycolysis to OXPHOS by TRPM7 silencing was abrogated by HIF-1α over-expression and impaired by inhibiting AMPK activity in ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, enhanced AMPK activation inhibited glycolysis, which was abrogated by HIF-1α over-expression in ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, the enhanced AMPK activation promoted HIF-1a ubiquitination degradation.ConclusionsTRPM7 silencing enhanced AMPK activation to shift glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation by promoting HIF-1α ubiquitination degradation in ovarian cancer. Hence, TRPM7 may be a therapeutic target for intervention of ovarian cancer.
The value of early positive nucleic acid test and negative conversion time of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the clinical outcome of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Zhai Yongzhen , Zang Xin , Xiong Liangkun , Zhu Junyao , Zhao Fangfang , Wang Shihong , Zeng Wenhui , Yu Kaihuan
Published: July 2021

Background

The outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) poses a great threat to the global public health. At present, the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases and new deaths is increasing worldwide. The strategy of comprehensive and scientific detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19) through real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for special populations and environments provides great support for the prevention and control of this pandemic in China. Our study focused on determining the factors associated with the length of time from symptom onset to the first positive nucleic acid test of throat swabs in COVID-19 patients, evaluating the effect of early positive nucleic acid detection on the disease severity and its significance in prognosis, and predicting the factors associated with the time from positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA test to negative conversion in COVID-19 patients.
Methods

This study included 116 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 from January 30, 2020 to March 4, 2020 in Wuhan, China. Throat swabs samples were collected for real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, and all patients included in this study were positive for this test.
Results

Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model showed that disease severity and the duration of disease before admission to hospitals were protective factors for the time from symptom onset to positive nucleic acid detection, and the time from positive nucleic acid test to negative conversion was a risk factor for the time from symptom onset to positive nucleic acid detection. Meanwhile, the time from symptom onset to positive nucleic acid detection was an independent risk factor for the prolonged negative conversion of SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Conclusions

Patients with more severe disease and longer duration of disease before admission to hospitals had a shorter time from symptom onset to positive nucleic acid test. Prolonged time from symptom onset to positive nucleic acid test was an independent risk factor for the prolonged negative conversion time of SARS-CoV-2 virus, and the severity of the disease had no correlation with negative conversion time of SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Molecular Differences Between Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma Cervical Cancer Subtypes: Potential Prognostic Biomarkers
Authors: Campos-Parra Alma , Perez-Quintanilla Milagros , Martínez-Gutierrez Antonio Daniel , Pérez-Montiel Delia , Millan-Catalan Oliver , Perez-Plasencia Carlos , de León David Cantú
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Cervical cancer (CC) remains a health problem. Persistent infection by high-risk papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is the main cause of this disease. The most frequently diagnosed histological types of CC are squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (ADC). Clinically, the prognosis of both types is controversial. Our aim was to search for a molecular profile that distinguishes each histological subtype and predicts the prognosis of one or both subtypes would be of great benefit to these patients.
Methods

The transcriptome of CC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was analyzed using the DESeq2 package to obtain the differentially expressed genes between ADC and SCC. The differentially expressed genes obtained from the TCGA database were validated with an online, publicly available transcriptome dataset (GSE56303) containing data for a Mexican-Mestizo independent cohort. The global biological pathways involving differentially expressed genes between SSC and ADC were obtained by performing an analysis using the Webgestalt platform. In addition, associations of the differentially expressed genes with Overall Survival (OS) were assessed.
Results

The molecular profile of 70 altered transcripts between ADC and SCC patients from the TCGA cohort was determined. These transcripts were also deregulated in the Mexico-Mestizo cohort with the same Log2FoldChange values. The molecular pathways involved were IL-17, JAK/STAT and Ras signaling. Higher GABRB2 and TSPAN8 expression and lower TMEM40 expression were associated with better OS in the Mexican-Mestizo cohort.
Conclusion

We were able to detect molecular differences between the ADC and SCC subtypes of CC; however, further studies are required to define the appropriate prognostic biomarker for each histological type.
Prognostic Significance of Lymphocyte to Monocyte Ratio in Gallbladder Carcinoma
Authors: Xu xiaomeng , Ji xiaomeng , yuan shengli , Wan shiyang , Zhang yan
Published: July 2021

Background: Increasing evidence indicates cancer-associated inflammatory biomarkers show great promise for predicting prognosis of cancer patients. The objective of this study aims to evaluate the prognostic significance of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio in patients with gallbladder carcinoma. Methods: Receiver operating characteristic curves was used to determine cut-off values for the LMR at detecting death. The primary outcome was overall survival, which was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate survival analysis was performed using a log rank test. Multivariate analysis using the Cox regression proportional hazard model was performed to identify the factors associated with the prognosis.A retrospective cohort of 80 GBC followed by operation was recruited between March 2008 and August 2014 at the Qingdao Municipal Hospital. Counts for absolute lymphocytes and monocytes were obtained and used to calculate the LMR.Results: For the LMR, the area under the ROC curve was 0.675 (95%CI: :0.530-0.820).The cut-off value for the LMR was determined to be 4.62. Patients in the high-LMR group experienced significant improvements in median survival time compared with patients in the low-LMR group(P = 0.03).The univariate analysis demonstrated that LMR, differentiation degree, TNM stage,CA199, CEA, Resection margin and operative methods were associated with overall survival (P < 0.05). The multivariate analysis identified that Differentiation grade , TNM stage, and CRP as independent prognostic factors in the patients with GBC(P <0.05). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that LMR is closely correlated with GBC prognosis and could be useful for the evaluation of prognosis of patients with GBC.
Coping with the financial hardships caused by ill health – Urban Slums of Jaipur, India
Authors: Awasthi Neha , Chaudhary Monika
Published: July 2021

Accountability of any health system does not ends with improving health. The vulnerability (to incur catastrophic health expenditure and coping mechanism) of this slum population was mostly pertaining to availability of acceptable healthcare services, accessing healthcare services and being forced to pay for it out-of-pocket. Determinant factors for vulnerability to incur catastrophic health expenditure and coping mechanism majorly included services availed. Determinants that affected the choice of coping mechanism were availing ANC/PNC services (OR = 3.8; P < 0.05); availed out-patients services for two or more times (OR = 2.6; P < 0.05); and availed in-patients services for one or more times (including deceased members in last one year) (OR = 10.2; P < 0.001). Similarly, households vulnerable to incur CHE were those which paid to avail in-patients services for one or more times (OR = 55.3; p < 0.001), childbirth services for one or more times (OR = 6.5; p < 0.05) Out-patient services (OR = 11.3; p < 0.001), and ANC/PNC services (OR = 6.7; p < 0.05. The household with more number of the households were two times more likely to incur CHE (OR = 2.5; p < .0001).
Selected ‘Starter Kit’ energy system modelling data for Myanmar (#CCG)
Authors: Cannone Carla , Allington Lucy , Pappis Ioannis , Barron Karla Cervantes , Usher Will , Pye Steve , Brown Edward , Howells Mark , Walker Miriam Zachau , Ahsan Aniq , Charbonnier Flora , Halloran Claire , Hirmer Stephanie , Taliotis Constantinos , Sundin Caroline , Sridha Vignesh , Ramos Eunice , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Gritsevskyi Andrii , Moura Gustavo , Rouget Arnaud , Wogan David , Barcelona Edito , Rogner Holger , Cronin Jen
Published: July 2021

Energy system modelling can be used to assess the implications of different scenarios and support improved policymaking. However, access to data is often a barrier to energy system modelling, causing delays. Therefore, this article provides data that can be used to create a simple zero order energy system model for Myanmar, which can act as a starting point for further model development and scenario analysis. The data are collected entirely from publicly available and accessible sources, including the websites and databases of international organizations, journal articles, and existing modelling studies. This means that the dataset can be easily updated based on the latest available information or more detailed and accurate local data. These data were also used to calibrate a simple energy system model using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) and three stylized scenarios (Fossil Future, Least Cost and Net Zero by 2050) for 2020–2050. The assumptions used and results of these scenarios are presented in the appendix as an illustrative example of what can be done with these data. This simple model can be adapted and further developed by in-country analysts and academics, providing a platform for future work.
Selected ‘Starter Kit’ energy system modelling data for Taiwan (#CCG)
Authors: Cannone Carla , Allington Lucy , Pappis Ioannis , Barron Karla Cervantes , Usher Will , Pye Steve , Brown Edward , Howells Mark , Walker Miriam Zachau , Ahsan Aniq , Charbonnier Flora , Halloran Claire , Hirmer Stephanie , Taliotis Constantinos , Sundin Caroline , Sridha Vignesh , Ramos Eunice , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Gritsevskyi Andrii , Moura Gustavo , Rouget Arnaud , Wogan David , Barcelona Edito , Rogner Holger , Cronin Jen
Published: July 2021

Energy system modelling can be used to assess the implications of different scenarios and support improved policymaking. However, access to data is often a barrier to energy system modelling, causing delays. Therefore, this article provides data that can be used to create a simple zero order energy system model for Taiwan, which can act as a starting point for further model development and scenario analysis. The data are collected entirely from publicly available and accessible sources, including the websites and databases of international organizations, journal articles, and existing modelling studies. This means that the dataset can be easily updated based on the latest available information or more detailed and accurate local data. These data were also used to calibrate a simple energy system model using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) and two stylized scenarios (Fossil Future and Least Cost) for 2020–2050. The assumptions used and results of these scenarios are presented in the appendix as an illustrative example of what can be done with these data. This simple model can be adapted and further developed by in-country analysts and academics, providing a platform for future work.
Management and Control Issues for Native, Invasive Species (Reed Canarygrass): Evaluating Philosophical, Management, and Legislative Issues
Authors: Anderson Neil O. , Smith Alan G. , Noyszewski Andrzej K. , Ito Emi , Dalbotten Diana , Pellerin Holly
Published: July 2021

The issue of native invasive species management rarely occurs and is fraught with biological, social, and economic challenges as well as posing difficulties in decision-making for land managers. The terminology for categorization of invasive species is examined in the context of their bias(es), which complicates control. An example of a newly determined native species, which is also invasive, is used as an example to navigate control and regulatory issues. Native, invasive reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) occurs throughout Minnesota and most likely the entire midwest region of central United States and Canadian provinces. The species was previously assumed to be an exotic, nonnative Eurasian import but recent molecular evidence supports its status as a native but invasive species. We address how this change to being a native but highly invasive species modifies approaches to mitigate its potential control for state, Tribal, and local authorities. The implications of these new findings will require differential shifts in land managers’ perspectives and approaches for control. Particular differences may exist for Tribal Land Managers vs. departments of natural resources and private agencies. Additionally, regulatory challenges have yet to be decided on how to legislate control for a native invasive species that had been previously assumed as exotic or foreign in origin. These opportunities to change attitudes and implement judicial control measures will serve as a template for other invasive species that are native in origin.
A Reliable and Cost-Effective Method for Determination of Endocrine-Disrupting Compounds in Coastal Waters, Suspended Particulate Matter, and Sediments by Ultrafast Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Photodiode Array and Fluorescence Detectors
Authors: de Souza Gabriel , Fahning Cristiane , Hatje Vanessa , da Rocha Gisele
Published: July 2021

Analytical methods for determining 14 endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) in coastal waters, suspended particles, and sediment samples were successfully performed by ultrafast liquid chromatography with photodiode array and fluorescence detections (UFLC-PDA-FLD). Solid‑phase extraction (SPE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (USE) were used for sample preparation. Two chromatographic methods have been developed. An isocratic separation method was used to separate bisphenol A (BPA) and steroids and another gradient elution method to separate phthalates and alkylphenols. The detection by fluorescence was used for alkylphenols, BPA, and steroids and photodiode array (PDA) for phthalates. Limits of detection (LOD) ranged from 0.41 (4-tert-octylphenol (4tOP)) to 63 ng L-1 (dibutylphthalate (DBP)), 0.41 (4tOP) to 63.2 ng g-1 dried weight (dw) coastal waters, and solid samples (suspended particulate matter (SPM) and sediment samples), respectively. Recoveries ranged from 52 (diethylphthalate (DEP)) to 116% (DBP) for water, from 54 (DEP) to 108% (estrone (E1)) for SPM, and from 62 (4-n-nonylphenol (4nNP)) to 117% (4-n-octylphenol (4nOP)) for sediment samples. Finally, with the minimization of reagents and energy, the proposed methods were applied to samples collected from Todos os Santos Bay (BTS), Bahia, Northeastern Brazil.
A decision support tool for optimising groundwater-level monitoring networks using an adaptive genetic algorithm
Authors: Parasyris Antonios , Spanoudaki Katerina , Varouchakis Emmanouil A. , Kampanis Nikolaos A.
Published: July 2021

Mapping of the spatial variability of sparse groundwater-level measurements is usually achieved by means of geostatistical methods. This work tackles the problem of deficient sampling of an aquifer, by employing an innovative integer adaptive genetic algorithm (iaGA) coupled with geostatistical modelling by means of ordinary kriging, to optimise the monitoring network. Fitness functions based on three different errors are used for removing a constant number of boreholes from the monitoring network. The developed methodology has been applied to the Mires basin in Crete, Greece. The methodological improvement proposed concerns the adaptive method for the GA, which affects the crossover–mutation fractions depending on the stall parameter, aiming at higher accuracy and faster convergence of the GA. The initial dataset consists of 70 monitoring boreholes and the applied methodology shows that as many as 40 boreholes can be removed, while still retaining an accurate mapping of groundwater levels. The proposed scenario for optimising the monitoring network consists of removing 30 boreholes, in which case the estimated uncertainty is considerably smaller. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to compare the performance of the standard GA with the proposed iaGA. The integrated methodology presented is easily replicable for other areas for efficient monitoring networks design.
¿Ethos de ciudad? Acciones de gobierno e identidad local en Hermosillo, Sonora
Authors: Rodríguez Pérez Ana Gabriela
Published: July 2021

Se presenta un análisis sobre las relaciones que existen entre acciones implementadas por el Gobierno Municipal (2010-2015), la conformación de identidad local y de orgullo ciudadano, con el objetivo de evaluar si es posible construir ethos de ciudad dominante desde un programa de gobierno en una ciudad intermedia de un país emergente. La hipótesis plantea que ello es posible a través de la planeación urbana. Es un acercamiento mixto y la evidencia se recogió mediante encuesta (muestreo por cuotas), entrevistas a profundidad y análisis de discurso de los Planes Municipales de Desarrollo en el periodo 2010-2012. La información se trianguló con fuentes oficiales. Se encontró que en Hermosillo no existe ethos dominante de ciudad porque en la ciudad se ejerce una planeación urbana jerarquizada vertical-descendente que ha contribuido a la fragmentación de la identidad local, la invisibilidad de la ciudad y sus habitantes en el contexto glocal, así como la exclusión social en el espacio público.
Compendium of Conventional and Targeted Drug Delivery Formulation
Used for the Treatment and Management of the Wound Healing
Authors: Baboota Sanjula , Singh Ajay , Maqsood Zeba , Iqubal Mohammad Kashif , Ali Javed
Published: July 2021

Wound healing is a complex and dynamic phenomenon that involves the restoration of
normal physiology and functioning of injured tissue. The process of wound healing is primarily regulated
by various cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and growth factors at the molecular level.
Any intervention in the normal wound healing process leads to further tissue damage, which in turn
leads to delayed wound healing. Several natural, synthetic drugs and their combinations were used
to restore and accelerate the wound healing process. However, the conventional delivery carriers
were not much effective, and thus, nowadays, nanocarriers are gaining much popularity since they
are playing a pivotal role in drug delivery. Since nanocarriers have their own applicability and benefits
(enhance the bioavailability, site-specific targeting) so, they can accelerate wound healing more
efficiently. This review briefly discussed about the various events that take place during the wound
healing process with emphasis on various natural, synthetic, and combination drug therapy used for
accelerating wound healing and the role of nanotechnology-based approaches in chronic wound
healing.
Discovery and Development of Macrolides as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Liu Rongli , Hou Yani , Gu Yijun
Published: July 2021

:

Cancer is a life-threatening destructive disease. In the past several decades, the incidence
of cancer has been dramatically increased mostly due to lifestyle changes. Chemotherapy
plays an important role in the treatment of cancer, but the development of resistance against chemotherapeutic
agents, the side effects, and non-specific toxicity threatens the efficiency of anticancer
agents. Accordingly, it is important to develop novel anticancer drugs. Beyond the classical
antibacterial activity, macrolides also demonstrated potential effects against both drug-sensitive
and drug-resistant cancers through modulating diverse targets and signaling pathways, so rational
design of macrolides may generate valuable therapeutic interventions for the treatment of cancers.
The purpose of the present review article is to outline the current developments in macrolides with
an emphasis on anticancer activity, structure-activity relationships, and mechanisms of action to
lay the path for the development of novel macrolide anticancer candidates.
Promising Perspective to Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Treatment: Nutraceuticals and Phytochemicals
Authors: Hangül Ceren , Karaüzüm Sibel Berker , Akkol Esra Küpeli , Demir-Dora Devrim , Çetin Zafer , Saygılı Eyüp İlker , Evcili Gökhan , Sobarzo-Sánchez Eduardo
Published: July 2021

Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD) is in the top three list of all dystrophies
with an approximate 1:8000 incidence. It is not a life-threatening disease; however, the progression
of the disease extends over being wheelchair bound. Despite some drug trials continuing,
including DUX4 inhibition, TGF-ß inhibition and resokine which promote healthier muscle, there is
not an applicable treatment option for FSHD today. Still, there is a need for new agents to heal, stop
or at least slow down muscle wasting. Current FSHD studies involving nutraceuticals as vitamin C,
vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, zinc, selenium, and phytochemicals as curcumin or genistein, daidzein
flavonoids provide promising treatment strategies. In this review, we present the clinical and molecular
nature of FSHD and focus on nutraceuticals and phytochemicals that may alleviate FSHD. In
the light of the association of impaired pathophysiological FSHD pathways with nutraceuticals and
phytochemicals according to the literature, we present both studied and novel approaches that can
contribute to FSHD treatment.
Hydroxychloroquine and Azithromycin Combination in the Management of COVID-19 Infection: Safety and Effectiveness Challenges
Authors: Abou Warda Ahmed E. , Tammam Mahmoud , El-Gazar Rabab A. , Sarhan Rania M. , Gaber Sayed
Published: July 2021

Background:

The treatment of COVID-19 disease remains a dilemma so far because
there is no approved therapy for it. This study aimed to evaluate the use of hydroxychloroquine and
azithromycin combination in treatment.

Objective:

This study was carried out to determine the safety and effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine
and azithromycin combination in COVID 19 patients.

Methods:

This study included 90 adult COVID 19 patients. Treatment of all patients followed
Egyptian Ministry of Health COVID-19 protocols, receiving a combination of hydroxychloroquine
400mg twice on day 1, then 200 mg twice daily in addition to azithromycin 500mg/day for 5 days.
ECG findings, especially the QTc interval, were assessed before and after 5 days from the administration.

Results:

All patients showed a statistically significant higher post-treatment QTc readings (433.6 ±
37.2) compared to baseline QTc (402.4 ± 31.3) at p<0.005 with a median QTc prolongation by 26
mSec and IQR (17.8-41.3), but without serious clinical complications. Only 5.6% of patients
showed QTc more than 500 mSec and no torsade de points or cardiac arrest. Geriatric patients
were at higher risk for QTc prolongation compared to patients aged less than 65 years but without
a significant difference as regards the median max QTc difference p<0.65. The expected therapeutic
effectiveness was 82.5% for moderate patients compared to 26% for severe patients (P<0.005).

Conclusion:

In a modest safety profile, we support the evidence that HQ/AZ therapy can be used
to treat Covid-19 infection with more effectiveness in moderate rather than severe cases, which
might be a reflection of the time of administration in the disease course.
Pembrolizumab for First-Line Treatment of Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Analysis of Prognostic Factors of Outcomes
Authors: Tibaldi Carmelo , Mazzoni Francesca , Scotti Vieri , Vasile Enrico , Pozzessere Daniele , Stasi Irene , Camerini Andrea , Federici Francesca , Meoni Giulia , Caparello Chiara , Turrini Marianna , Rossi Virginia , Ciccone Lucia Pia , Pecora Irene , Fantechi Beatrice , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Giannarelli Diana , Baldini Editta
Published: July 2021

Background:

In advanced non-small-cell lung cancer, without activating mutations and with PD-L1≥50%,
Pembrolizumab monotherapy is the therapeutic standard in Europe.

Objective:

To evaluate retrospectively the safety and efficacy of this drug and to investigate potential prognostic factors
in daily clinical practice.

Methods:

From September 2017 to September 2019, 205 consecutive patients from 14 Italian Medical Oncology Units
were enrolled in the study. Gender, Age (> or <70 years), ECOG-PS (0-1 or 2), histology (squamous or nonsquamous),
presence of brain, bone and liver metastases at baseline, PD-L1 score (>90% or <90%), smoking status
(never or former or current) were applied to the stratified log-rank. Cox’s proportional hazards model was used for
multivariate analysis.

Results:

At a median follow-up of 15.2 months, median progression-free and overall survival (mPFS and mOS) were
9.2 months (95% C.I., 4.8-13.5) and 15.9 months (95% C.I., not yet evaluable), respectively. Patients with Eastern
Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) 2 had mPFS of 2.8 months (95% C.I., 2.1-3.4) and mOS
of 3.9 months (95% C.I., 2.5-5.3). Patients with liver metastases at diagnosis had an mPFS of 3.2 months (95% C.I.,
0.6-5.8) and an mOS of 6.0 months (95% C.I., 3.7-8.4). At multivariate analysis for OS gender, ECOG-PS 2, and presence
of liver metastases were independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion:

Patients with ECOG-PS 2 derived little benefit from the use of first-line pembrolizumab. In patients with
liver metastases, the association of pembrolizumab with platinum-based chemotherapy could be a better option than
pembrolizumab alone.