bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angiotensin-(3–4) (Val-Tyr) Normalizes the Elevated Arterial Blood Pressure and Abnormal Na+/Energy Handling Associated With Chronic Undernutrition by Counteracting the Effects Mediated by Type 1 Angiotensin II Receptors
Authors: Pereira-Acacio Amaury , Veloso-Santos João , Nossar Luiz , Costa-Sarmento Gloria , Muzi-Filho Humberto , Vieyra Adalberto
Published: December 2021

Purpose To investigate the mechanisms by which chronic administration of a multideficient diet after weaning alters bodily Na+ handling, and culminates in high systolic blood pressure (SBP) at a juvenile age.Methods From 28 to 93 days of age, weaned male Wistar rats were given a diet with low content and poor-quality protein, low lipid, without vitamin supplementation, which mimics the diets consumed in impoverished regions worldwide. We measured food, energy and Na+ ingestion, together with urinary Na+ excretion, Na+ density (Na+ intake/energy intake), plasma Na+ concentration, SBP), and renal proximal tubule Na+-transporting ATPases. Results Undernourished rats aged 93 days had only one-third of the control body mass, lower plasma albumin, higher SBP, higher energy intake, and higher positive Na+ balance accompanied by decreased plasma Na+ concentration. SBP was normalized with Losartan and with Ang-(3–4), and the combination of the 2 substances induced an accentuated negative Na+ balance as a result of strong inhibition of Na+ ingestion. Na+ density in undernourished rats was higher than in control, irrespective of the treatment, and they had downregulated (Na++K+)ATPase and upregulated Na+-ATPase in proximal tubule cells, which returned to control levels after Losartan or Ang-(3–4).Conclusions Na+ density, not only Na+ ingestion, plays a central role in the pathophysiology of elevated SBP in chronically undernourished rats. The observations that Losartan and Ang-(3–4) normalized SBP together with Na+ distribution and handling give support to the proposal that Ang IIÞAT1R and Ang IIÞAT2R axes have opposite roles within the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system of undernourished juvenile rats.
An Observational, Non-Interventional Study for the Follow-up of Patients with Amyloidosis Who Received Miridesap Followed by Dezamizumab in a Phase 1 Study
Authors: Richards Duncan , Millns Helen , Cookson Louise , Lukas Mary Ann
Published: December 2021

Background: Miridesap depletes circulating serum amyloid P (SAP) and dezamizumab (anti-SAP monoclonal antibody) targets SAP on amyloid deposits, triggering amyloid removal. In a Phase 1, first-in-human study (FIHS), progressive amyloid removal was observed in some patients after ≤3 cycles of miridesap/dezamizumab.Methods: This observational, non-interventional study in patients who received miridesap/dezamizumab during the FIHS (planned follow-up: 5 years) evaluated response to treatment based on routine assessments of disease status and key organ function. In a post hoc analysis, patients responding to treatment in the FIHS during follow-up were identified as responders and further categorized as sustained or declining responders.Results: In the FIHS, 17/23 patients were treatment responders. Of these patients, seven (immunoglobulin light chain [AL], n=6; serum amyloid A, n=1) were considered sustained responders and ten (fibrinogen-a alpha chain [AFib], n=5; AL, n=4; apolipoprotein A-I, n=1) were considered declining responders. We primarily present responder patient-level data for functional, cardiac, laboratory and imaging assessments conducted during the follow-up period, with non-responder data presented as supplementary.Conclusion: No further development of miridesap/dezamizumab is planned in amyloidosis. However, long-term follow-up of these patients may provide insight into whether active removal of amyloid deposits has an impact on disease progression. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01777243. Registered 28 January 2013, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT01777243.
“Pain Management in Intensive Care Patients, a Retrospective Observational Research.”
Authors: Dinse Christoph Moritz , Bucher Michael , Burgdorff Anna-Maria , Christel Annett , Flöther Lilit
Published: December 2021

Background
Sepsis and septic shock are the most common causes of death in non-cardiac surgery intensive care units. The treatment of sepsis is difficult. Adequate analgesia is essential for a positive outcome. There are differences in pain management between septic and non-septic patients. Septic ICU patients receive higher doses of opioids than non-septic ICU patients.
Methods
A retrospective observational study was carried out in an anesthesiological intensive care from 1.1.2014 to 30.6.2016. The cases were divided into four different groups according to the criteria: Sepsis “yes/no” and communication ability “yes/no”. After adjusting the number of cases by pairing method, 356 cases were recruited. The endpoint of our study was defined as the "total opioid dose". A statistical evaluation was carried out by T-tests and two-factor variance analyses.
Results
There is a significant difference in opioid dose between communicative and non-communicative ICU patients. The mean sufentanil dose is significantly higher in the non-communicative patients than in the communicative patients. Sepsis has no significant effect on the dose of sufentanil.
Conclusion
The hypothesis that sepsis decreases the pain threshold could not be proven in this study. The effect of the higher opioid requirement is not directly caused by sepsis, but by the factor of communication ability. Furthermore, we were able to show through our investigations and especially through the data of the pain recording instruments that the septic and non-septic intensive care patients receive sufficient pain therapy treatment.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing of Peripheral Blood Reveals That Monocytes With High Cathepsin S Expression Aggravate Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Xie Lexing , Zhang Shuang , Huang Li , Peng Zhouzhou , Lu Hui , He Qian , Hu Linlin , Wang Bingqiao , Sun Baoliang , Yang Qingwu , Xie Qi
Published: December 2021

Background: Stroke persists as a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. After a stroke, peripheral immune cells are rapidly activated and then infiltrate the central nervous system to cause inflammation in the brain. However, it is not clear when and how these peripheral immune cells affect the central inflammatory response and whether there are intervention targets that can alleviate ischemia-reperfusion injury. In this study, we collected mouse peripheral blood samples at different time points after stroke for single-cell sequencing to reveal the dynamic changes in peripheral immune cells. Methods: We performed single-cell sequencing on peripheral blood of mice at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days after ischemia-reperfusion to analyze the changes of subpopulations after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion; Real-time PCR, western blot and ﻿enzyme‑linked immunoabsorbent assay were used to perform mRNA and protein levels verification; ﻿Immunoprecipitation verifies the interaction of proteins and between junctional adhesion molecule (JAM-A) and Cathepsin S (CTSS) protein, in vitro enzyme digestion and silver staining method to detect the protease digestion effect of CTSS.Results: Peripheral monocyte subpopulations increased significantly after ischemia-reperfusion. Pseudo-time trajectory analysis and gene function analysis further suggested that CTSS may play an important role in regulating monocyte activation and leading to proteolysis. Next, we found that the expression of CTSS was significantly increased in monocytes after I/R in mice. Then, we used CTSS inhibitors and knockout mouse experiments to prove that inhibiting its expression can significantly reduce infarct volume and reduce blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakage. In addition, we found that CTSS destroys BBB by binding to JAM family proteins to cause them degradation. Conclusion: Inhibition of Cathepsin S attenuated cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury and Cathepsin S can be used as a novel target for drug intervention after stroke.
Clinical Characteristics and Economic Burden of Asthma in China: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Shang Bin , Li Xiangguo , Xu Yu , Ren Wenxin , Wang Junren , Jiang Shujuan , Sun Jian
Published: December 2021

Background: Asthma is a common chronic airway inflammation that produces a healthcare burden on the economy.Objective: To obtain a better understanding of the clinical status and disease burden of patients with asthma in China. Methods: A retrospective study based on the computerized medical records in the Jinan Health Medical Big Data Platform between 2011 and 2019 (n = 31,082) was carried out. The asthma severity of each patient was assessed retrospectively and categorized as mild, moderate, or severe according to GINA 2018. Results: The results revealed that the majority (75.0%) of patients suffered from mild asthma. Patients treated with ICS/LABA at emergency department visits had lower frequencies of exacerbations in the following year compared with non-ICS/LABA treated patients.The incidence rates for 1 exacerbation are 14.49% vs 15.01 for the patients treated with ICS/LABA and without. The rates are 11.94% and 19.12% for 2 exacerbations above. The numbers are 6.51% vs 12.92% for 3 exacerbations above. The rates are 4.10% vs 9.35% for 4 exacerbations above. Also the difference got the statistical significance (p <0.001), COPD and GRED, two comorbidities related to asthma, were risk factors for asthma exacerbation. Finally, patients who suffered from exacerbations produced a heavier economic burden compared to the patients who never suffered exacerbations(mean costs are ￥3,339.67 vs ￥968.45 separately). Conclusions: These results provide a reference for clinicians and patients to obtain a better treatment and therapy strategy management for asthma sufferers.
Identification of Enhancer RNA CDK6-AS1 as a Potential Novel Prognostic Biomarker in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yang Shifeng , Zou Xiaoming , Yang Hao , Li Jiacheng , Zhang Ange , Zhang LIsha , Li Changjian , Zhu Lei , Ma Zhen
Published: December 2021

Background:The aim of this study was to confirm enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) in gastric cancer and its clincial utility. Methods:We used cox survival analysis and relevance analysis to identify the candidate eRNAs in gastric cancer. Moreover, we performed GO and Reactome pathway enrichment to found the potential functions of eRNAs.Correlation between eRNA, tumor-infiltrating immune cells and drug sensitivity was then analyzed. Results: CDK6-AS1 may serve as a poor independent prognostic biomarker candidate in gastric cancer with positive correlation with its target gene CDK6. Low CDK6-AS1 expression group showed more frequent mutated driver genes than high expression ones. Moreover, CDK6-AS1 is involved in key oncogenic pathway as cell cycle and RNA transcription. CDK6-AS1 also shows dysregulations and associations with prognosis at pan-cancer level. This eRNA may also associated with immune cell infiltration and drug sensitivity. Conclusion:CDK6-AS1 may be a potential prognostic biomarker for gastric cancer, predict chemotherapeutic drugs sensitivity of gastric cancer.
A Phosphite-Based Sscreening Platform for Identification of Enzymes Favoring Nonnatural Cofactors
Authors: Liu Yuxue , Li Zhuoya , Guo Xiaojia , Wang Xueying , Zhao Zongbao K.
Published: December 2021

BackgroundEnzymes with dedicated cofactor preference are essential for advanced biocatalysis and biomanufacturing. However, directed evolution of an enzyme to switch its cofactor preference is often hindered by the lack of efficient and affordable method for screening as the cofactor per se or the substrate can be prohibitively expensive. Here, we developed a growth-based selection platform to identify nonnatural cofactor-dependent oxidoreductase mutants.ResultsThe growth-based selection platform was designed by coupling with nonnatural cofactor-dependent phosphite dehydrogenase (Pdh) mediated the conversion of non-metabolizable phosphite into phosphate in the culture media. Thus, Pdh variant that strongly favors nicotinamide cytosine dinucleotide (NCD), a NAD analogue, the feasibility of this strategy was successfully demonstrated using derived NCD-active malic enzyme as well as for the directed evolution of NCD synthetase in Escherichia coli.ConclusionsHere, we built a phosphite-based screening platform for identification of enzymes favoring nonnatural cofactor NCD. In the future, once Pdh variants favoring other biomimetic or nonnatural cofactors are available this selection platform may be readily redesigned to attain new enzyme variants with anticipated cofactor preference, providing opportunities to further expand the chemical space of redox cofactors in chemical biology and synthetic biology.
Ovarian Estrogen Synthesis Reduced by Peritoneal Endometriosis in Rat Autologous Transplantation Model
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhang Yu , Luo Jiali , Yu Lin , Li Panpan , Wang Xinyue , Zhang Tingting , Sun Zhaogui
Published: December 2021

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of peritoneal endometriosis on rat ovaries. METHODS: A rat model of peritoneal endometriosis was established by autologous transplantation. qPCR was performed to measure mRNA levels of steroid hormone and steroid synthesis-related genes in the ovaries of endometriosis rats. Immunohistochemistry was performed to characterize the distribution of FSHR in the ovaries of endometriosis rats. RNAseq was performed to find pathological changes in the ovaries of endometriosis rats. RESULTS: By qPCR, it was revealed that mRNA levels of steroid hormone synthesis-related genes were decreased in the ovaries of rats with endometriosis; With IHC, observed that FSHR expression was significantly decreased in the antral follicles of rats with endometriosis. RNAseq revealed that endometriosis affected transcription of the genes related to the microtubule structure and tight junctions of rat ovarian cells. CONCLUSION: Peritoneal endometriosis decreased the genic expression of ovarian steroid hormone synthetases and FSHR protein level in granulosa cells of antral follicles, and reduced the mRNA levels of the microtubule structure and tight junctions in rat ovarian cells, which contribute to the impairment of ovarian function.
Changes in Hard and Soft Tissue During the First 6 Months After Immediate Implant Placement and Provisionalization of a Single Anterior Maxillary Incisor: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wei Donghao , Jiang Xi , Di Ping , Tian Jiehua , Lin Ye
Published: December 2021

Background: To evaluate changes in hard and soft tissue during the first 6 months after immediate implant placement and provisionalization (IIPP) of a single maxillary incisor.Methods: Failed maxillary incisors were replaced with IIP implants in 34 patients. Intraoral scans and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) were performed before and 6 months after IIPP. Changes in soft tissue thickness, soft tissue contour, and hard tissue contour were measured by a three-dimensional superimposition method. The correlations of hard and soft tissue contour changes were assessed.Results: A total of 31 patients completed the study. Soft tissue contour tended to collapse after 6 months. Soft tissue was significantly thickened 1–3 mm below the gingival margin. Correlation analysis showed strong correlations between the hard and soft tissue contour changes at 0–5 mm apical to the implant platform. The mid-facial recession at 6 months was −0.46 ± 0.55 mm.Conclusions: Soft tissue contour collapsed after tooth extraction, regardless of IIPP. Both soft and hard tissue change affected the soft tissue contour change.
The Morbidity Analysis of 17 Notifiable Bacterial Infectious Diseases in China, 2004-2019
Authors: zhu yuliang , Lin Shenghong , Dong Shuaibing , Zhang Cuihong , Shi Lusha , Ren Xiang , Li Zhongjie , Fang Liqun , wang Liping
Published: December 2021

Background

To better understand the epidemic dynamic of notifiable BIDs in China, and to provide scientific evidence for the prevention and control measures.
Methods

we gathered data from the NIDRIS in China from 2004 to 2019. The methods of descriptive epidemiology were applied to analyze the data of BIDs. The Joinpoint Regression analysis was utilized to examine trends in the incidence rates of BIDs.
Results

During 2004‒2019, the average annual incidence rate reported for notifiable BIDs was 134.00 of 100 000. The overall average annual percent changes (AAPC) for RTDs and DCFTDs was -1.98% and -11.66%, respectively. Both of BSTDs and ZVDs showed increasing trends with AAPCs of 4.74% and 4.46%, respectively. Pertussis and scarlet fever showed the fastest increase of the incidence rate in the age group of 0~5 years with AAPC of 15.17% and 12.05%. RTDs had the highest incidence rate in Northwest China. South and East China represented a higher morbidity in BSTDs. The proportion of laboratory confirmation of BIDs have increased from 43.80–64.04%.
Conclusions

RTDs and DCFTDs showed an overall downward trend in China for a dozen years, while BSTDs and ZVDs indicated significantly upward trends.
Rock Fragment Content in Soils Shift Root Foraging Behavior in Xerophytic Species
Authors: Hu Hui , Bao Weikai , Eissenstat David M. , Huang Long , Li Fanglan
Published: December 2021

Aims Root traits associated with resource foraging, including fine-root branching intensity, root hair and mycorrhiza, may change in soils with various physical structure indicated by rock fragment content (RFC), while how these traits covariate at the level of individual root branching order is largely unknown.Methods We subjected two xerophytic species, Artemisia vestita (subshrub) and Bauhinia brachycarpa (shrub), to increasing RFC gradients (0%, 25%, 50% and 75%, v v-1) in an arid environment and measured fine-root traits related to resource foraging.Results Root hair density and mycorrhizal colonization of both species decreased with increasing root order, but increased in 3rd- and 4th-order roots at high RFCs (50% or 75%). The two species tend to produce more root hairs than mycorrhizas under the high RFCs. For both species, root hair density and mycorrhizal colonization intensity were negatively correlated with root length and root diameter. Rockiness reduced root branching intensity in both species comparing with rock-free soil. At the same level of RFC, A. vestita had thicker roots and lower branching intensity than B. brachycarpa, and tended to produce more root hairs.Conclusion Our results suggest the high RFC soil conditions stimulated greater foraging functions in higher root orders. We found evidence for a greater investment in root hairs and mycorrhizal symbioses as opposed to building an extensive root system in rocky soils. The subshrub and shrub species took different approaches to foraging in the rocky soil through distinctive trait syndromes of fine-root components.
Serum Lactate/Albumin as a Predictor of In-Hospital Mortality in ICU Pancreatitis Patients: an Analysis of the MIMIC-III Database
Authors: Bao Peng , Cui Xiaoli , Shen Haoliang , Wang Yiping , Lu Yang
Published: December 2021

Background: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common serious illness, and is characterized by rapid deterioration and a high mortality rate. Several biomarkers can evaluate and guide the treatment of acute pancreatitis, but there is currently no consensus on which markers are the most effective, simple, and economical for treating early-onset AP. In this study, we used the MIMIC III database to conduct a retrospective study on the relationship between early lactate/albumin (LAC/ALB), in-hospital mortality, and complication rates in patients with acute pancreatitis in the ICU.Methods: Basic data and indicators of laboratory tests, hospital deaths, and hospitalization days of acute pancreatitis patients were extracted from the database, after which the relationship between LAC/ALB and hospital mortality, ICU hospitalization days, and organ failure were evaluated using a t-test, a rank-sum test, a chi-square test or Fisher's exact probability method, and a Cox proportional hazard model.Results: 894 patients met the requirements and were selected from the MIMIC III database. They were subsequently grouped according to the lower limit ratio of the LAC/ALB normal value of 0.7. The group with LAC/ALB>0.7 showed higher hospital mortality rates, and the Lac, Inr, nitrogen, blood sugar, AKI incidence, Tbil, Sapsii score, and Sofa scores were all higher than the group with LAC/ALB<0.7. A multivariate Cox regression analysis model was used to explore the relationship between LAC/ALB levels and inpatient mortality. After including different adjustment variables, we determined that LAC/ALB is a risk factor for in-hospital death. The results of the subgroup analysis of LAC/ALB levels and mortality of hospitalized patients indicate that higher levels of LAC/ALB are risk factors for in-hospital deaths in patients with acute pancreatitis.
Comparative Outcomes of Standard Perioperative Eye Drops, Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide-Moxifloxacin, and Intracameral Dexamethasone-Moxifloxacin-Ketorolac in Cataract Surgery
Authors: Kuriakose Robin , Cho Soungmin , Nassiri Saman , Hwang Frank S.
Published: December 2021

Background: Since the advent of cataract surgery, topical eye drops have been the mainstay of postoperative prophylaxis and treatment. Due to factors such as high expenses and poor patient compliance, there has been a growing interest and acceptance of “dropless” alternatives. The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide-moxifloxacin and intracameral dexamethasone-moxifloxacin-ketorolac to a standard eye drop regimen in controlling postoperative inflammation, corneal edema, and intraocular pressure (IOP) among cataract patients.Methods: A retrospective longitudinal comparative study among 619 consecutive eyes receiving either a standard eye drop regimen, intraoperative triamcinolone acetonide-moxifloxacin or dexamethasone-moxifloxacin-ketorolac was performed between October 2016 and December 2020. Primary endpoints at postoperative day one (POD1), week one (POW1), and month one (POM1) included corneal edema, anterior chamber inflammation (ACI), and IOP.Results: Throughout the postoperative time points, there were no significant differences in corneal edema between intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide-moxifloxacin versus the standard eye drop therapy (OR [95%CI]: 1.09 [0.82, 1.45], P = .54) and intracameral dexamethasone-moxifloxacin-ketorolac versus the standard eye drop treatment (OR [95% CI]: 1.22 [0.89, 1.67], P = .22). The postoperative ACI severity was lower in the dexamethasone-moxifloxacin-ketorolac group compared to the triamcinolone acetonide-moxifloxacin group by 35% on postoperative day 1 (P = .01). The differences at subsequent postoperative time points were not statistically significant (P = .27 and P = 1.00 for POW1 and POM1 respectively). IOP at POM1 follow up visit was statistically significantly higher for the triamcinolone acetonide-moxifloxacin group [mean (±SD): 15.64 (4.26)] compared to the dexamethasone-moxifloxacin-ketorolac [mean (±SD): 14.16 (4.02)] (P < .01). There was no statistical difference in rates of CME (P = .16) and there were no cases of endophthalmitis.Conclusions: Intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide-moxifloxacin and intracameral dexamethasone-moxifloxacin-ketorolac demonstrate similar levels of efficacy to a standard eye drop regimen after cataract surgery. This study reinforces them as viable alternatives to traditional postoperative drops.
Genetic Introgression Between Different Groups Reveals the Differential Process of Asian cultivated Rice
Authors: Gong Hao , Han Bin
Published: December 2021

Genetic introgression plays an important role in the domestication of crops. The Asian cultivate rice consists of two major subspecies, they are indica and japonica. There are already many reports about existence of genetic introgression between the two subspecies. However, those studies often use few limited markers to characterize the genetic introgression that exists in some specific small populations. In this study we use the genome wide variation data of Asia cultivated rice to investigate their genetic introgression on the whole genome level. We detect a total of 13 significantly high introgression loci between the tropical japonica and indica population. Two different methods are used to identify the genetic introgression regions. For most of the detected introgression regions they generally get consistent results. Some previous known introgression genes are detected in the identified introgression loci, such as heat resistance gene TT1 and GLW7. The biological functions for these genetic introgression regions are annotated by the published QTL mapping results. We find that genetic introgression plays an important role in both the determination of the phenotype and the domestication process of different groups. Our study also provides useful information and resources for the study of rice gene function and domestication process.
Nanocluster Mediated Photothermia Improves Eradication Efficiency and Antibiotic Sensitivity of Helicobacter Pylori
Authors: Meng Fansen , Tao Hongjin , Mi Yan , Yang Tianyu , Wang Xuanping , Go Yuyo , Lin Yunjuan , Wang Gangshi
Published: December 2021

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication plays a crucial role in gastric cancer prevention, but the antimicrobial resistance of H. pylori is obstructing this elimination process. In this study, we developed nanoclusters (NCs) from Zn0.3Fe2.7O4 nanoparticles using a poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(ε-caprolactone)-based nanocarrier as an innovative antibiotic-independent H. pylori management. The nanocluster showed minimal toxicity and maximal biocompatibility. With a low concentration (50 µg/mL) of NCs under a short time period (～2 min) of near-infrared (808nm) irradiation, we kept the culture medium temperature to 41 °C for 20 minutes with continuous irradiation. The heated NCs exhibited efficient photothermal effects and resulted in an excellent inhibition of H. pylori growth, adhesion ability and cell vacuolization ability in in vitro investigation. Transmission electron microscopy showed a dramatic morphologic change after NCs photothermia on H. pylori, including cell wall and membrane rupture, as well as ribosome damage. Besides, levofloxacin and clarithromycin resistance were improved after photothermal treatment in H. pylori NCTC 11637 and/or clinical strains, however metronidazole resistance was unchanged. We also discovered a significant decrease in the biofilm formation of H. pylori under the NCs-based photothermal application, while efflux pump function was unchanged. In summary, using this novel NCs-based photothermal approach, we were able to demonstrate in vitro a significant inhibition of both H. pylori growth and molecular toxicity, and its improvement in antibiotic resistance alone with the eradication of H. pylori biofilms previously believed to be resistant to conventional antibiotics.
Dual Attention Multiscale Network for Vessel Segmentation in Fundus Photography
Authors: Yin Pengshuai , Fang Yupeng , Wu Qingyao , Wan QiLin
Published: December 2021

Background: Automatic vessel structure segmentation is an essential step towards an automatic disease diagnosis system. The task is challenging due to the variance shapes and sizes of vessels across populations.Methods: A multiscale network with dual attention is proposed to segment vessels in different sizes. The network injects spatial attention module and channel attention module on feature map which size is 1 8 of the input size. The network also uses multiscale input to receive multi-level information, and the network uses the multiscale output to gain more supervision. Results: The proposed method is tested on two publicly available datasets: DRIVE and CHASEDB1. The accuracy, AUC, sensitivity, specificity on DRIVE dataset is 0.9615, 0.9866, 0.7693, and 0.9851, respectively. On the CHASEDB1 dataset, the metrics are 0.9797, 0.9895, 0.8432, and 0.9863 respectively. The ablative study further shows effectiveness for each part of the network. Conclusions: Multiscale and dual attention mechanism both improves the performance. The proposed architecture is simple and effective. The inference time is 12ms on a GPU and has potential for real-world applications. The code will be made publicly available.
Diversity And Antibiograms of Secondary Bacterial Isolates From Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Wounds
Authors: Yeboaa Comfort , Boamah Vivian Etsiapa , Odoi Hayford , Owusu-Ntim Rhoda , Boakye Yaw Duah , Nuako Godwin Kwakye , Agyare Christian , Badu Kingsley
Published: December 2021

Background: Leishmaniasis is a vector borne disease caused by an intracellular protozoan parasite. The presence of secondary bacterial infections in cutaneous leishmaniasis wounds exacerbate lesion development and could lead to delay in the healing process. Little is also known about the different bacteria species co-infecting leishmaniasis wounds and their sensitivity patterns in Ghana. This study sought to determine the resistance patterns of bacteria co-infecting cutaneous leishmaniasis wounds from selected communities in the Nkwanta district.Methods: Various bacteria were isolated and characterized from exudates obtained from wound swabs collected with sterile cotton tipped applicators. Confirmation of bacterial identity was done using the analytical profile index and the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed using agar disc diffusion method according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute breakpoint values.Results: A total of 42 secondary bacteria were isolated from the wounds among which S. aureus was the most predominant (31%). Other pathogenic bacteria that colonized the wounds included Bacillus subtilis (23.8%), Pantoea spp(11.9%), Klebsiella pneumoniea (7.1%), Enterobacter cloacae (7.1%), Aeromonas spp (4.8%), Serratia marcescens (4.8%),Serratia liquefacien (2.4%), Serratia plymutheca (2.4%), Providencia rettgeri (2.4%) and Cronobacter spp (2.4%). Majority of the isolates were obtained from Agoufie (21.4%), Baasare (19%), and Gekrong (16.7%). Most of the isolates were resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics and the third generation cephalosporin. Notably, 84.6% of the S. aureus isolates were methicillin and ciprofloxacin resistant whilst 92.3% were resistant to ampicllin. About sixty-nine percent (69.2%) showed intermediate susceptibility to Erythromycin. Additionally, S. plymutheca was resistant to all the test antibiotics. All the K. pneumoniae and E. cloacae isolates showed resistance to ampicillin, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, amikacin, aztreonam and meropenem but only 66.7% of these isolates were resistant to piperacillin. All isolates of Providencia rettgeri, Cronobacter spp, S. marcescen, S. liquefacien were resistant to all the beta-lactam antibiotics.Conclusion: This study suggests colonization of cutaneous leishmaniasis wounds with varied bacterial species that are mostly resistant to beta-lactam group of antibiotics.
Association between Meningococcal Meningitis and Santa Ana Winds in Children and Adolescents from Tijuana, Mexico, a need for Vaccination.
Authors: Chacon-Cruz Enrique , Lopatynsky-Reyes Erika Zoe , Garcia Esbeydy , Montaño-Duron Jesus Gilberto
Published: December 2021

Background

Based on several previous studies (regional and national), Tijuana, Baja-California, Mexico (across the border from San Diego, California, USA), has shown the highest rate of Meningococcal Meningitis (MeM) in the country, however, the reason for this has not yet been known. In the “African Meningitis Belt”, the Harmattan seasons are associated with MeM outbreaks. The Santa Ana winds seasons (SAWs) are hot and dry winds (similar to Harmattan seasons) that occur seasonally in southwestern California, USA, and North of Baja-California, Mexico.
Objectives

Our aim was to demonstrate, as a short communication, a potential association of SAWs with MeM in Tijuana, Baja-California, Mexico, which in turn, may partially explain the high rate of this disease in the region.
Methods

Based on own previously published data obtained from thirteen years of active surveillance of MeM, and a 65 years review showing the occurrence of SAWs, we estimated the risk ratio (RR) of total cases number by MeM vs. bacterial non-MeM (bacterial meningitis not caused by Neisseria meningitidis) during seasons with and without SAWs.
Results

We found an association of SAWs seasons with MeM, but not with bacterial non-MeM (RR = 2.06, p = 0.02 (95% CI 1.1 to 3.8), which may partially explain the high endemicity of this deadly disease in this part of the globe.
Conclusion

This study shows a new potential climatic association with MeM, and provides more information that justifies universal meningococcal vaccination in Tijuana, Mexico.
Efficacy And Safety of Jian-Pi Huo-Xue Granule For Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Study Protocol For a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Sun Yuanlong , Chen Gaofeng , Chen Si , Wang Yanjie , Hu Yiyang , Zhao Yu
Published: December 2021

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease with a prevalence of 25% worldwide, but there is a lack of consensus treatment drugs. Previous studies have shown that Jian-Pi Huo-Xue granule (JPHX) can reduce hepatic steatosis by ultrasound image, but lacks quantitative observation of liver fat content. This study aims to improve the efficacy and safety evaluation of JPHX for NAFLD using magnetic resonance imaging-proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) as the primary outcome. Methods: This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. This trial will enroll 84 participants with NAFLD, which will be randomized into JPHX or placebo granule groups in equal proportions, and receive JPHX or placebo granules treatment for 24 weeks. A follow-up will be performed 12 weeks after intervention. The primary outcome is the change of MRI-PDFF from baseline to week 24. Secondary outcomes are the body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), serum hepatic function, serum lipids, blood glucose-related indicators, life quality measuring health surveys, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Syndrome Scale. Outcomes will be monitored at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks after enrolment. Adverse events that occurred in this trial will be managed and recorded in time. Discussion: We design a clinical trial for NAFLD management with JPHX, a TCM formula. The results of this trial will present the efficacy and safety of JPHX, and provide clinical evidence for the treatment of NAFLD. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ID: ChiCTR2100046132. Registered on May 4, 2021.
A Novel Framework for Efficient Multiple Signature on Certificate with Database Security
Authors: Tanwar Sarvesh , Badotra Sumit , Rana Ajay
Published: December 2021

PKI gives undeniable degree of safety by transferring the key pair framework among the clients. By constructing, a PKI we combine digital identities with the digital signatures, which give an end-to-end trust model. Basically, PKI is an attempt, which can simulate the real-world human analyzation of identity and reliability in a computerized fashion. In any case, the existing applications are centered on a tight trust model which makes them inadequate as an overall device for trust examination. After years of research, development and deployment, PKI still facing strong technical and organizational challenges such as attacks against Certificate Authorities (CA). CAs are the primitive component of PKIs which plays powerful role in the PKI model. CA must be diligent, creditable and legitimate. In any case, a technocrat who picks up control on a CA can use CA's certificate to issue bogus certificate and impersonate any site, such as - DigiNotar, GobalSign, Comodo and DigiCert Malaysia. In this paper we proposed an approach to reduce the damage of compromised CA/CA’s key by imposing Multiple Signatures (MS) after verifying/authenticating user’s information. One single compromised CA is not able to issue a certificate to any domain as multiple signatures are required. Private key and other perceptive information are stored in the form of object/blob. Without knowing the structure of class no one can access the object and object output stream. Proposed MS achieve better performance over existing MS schemes and control fraudulent certificate issuance with more database security. The proposed scheme also avoids MITM attack against CA who is issuing certificate to whom which is using the following parameters such as identity of Sender, Receiver, Timestamp and Aadhar number.
The Value of CT-based Radiomics Nomogram in Differential Diagnosis of Different Histological Types of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Huang hao , Xu fang yi , Chen Qing Qing , Hu hong jie , Qi Fangyu , Zhao Jiaojiao
Published: December 2021

Purpose: To establish and verify a nomogram based on computed tomography (CT) radiomics analysis to predict the histological types of gastric cancer preoperatively for patients with surgical indications.Methods: A sum of 143 patients with gastric cancer in Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital from January 2019 to December 2020 (differentiated type: 46 cases; undifferentiated type: 97 cases) were included into this retrospective study, and were randomly divided into training (n=99) and test cohort (n=44). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator(LASSO) was used for feature selection while the multivariate Logistic regression method was used for radiomics model and nomogram building. The area under curve(AUC) was used for performance evaluation in this study.Results: The radiomics model got AUCs of 0.755 (95%CI, 0.650-0.859) and 0.71 (95%CI,0.543-0.875) for histological prediction in the training and test cohorts, respectively. The radiomics nomogram based on radiomics features and Carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) achieved an AUC of 0.777 (95%CI:0.679-0.875) in the training cohort with 0.726 (95%CI:0.559-0.893) in the test cohort. The calibration curve of the radiomics nomogram also showed good results. The decision curve analysis(DCA) shows that the radiomics nomogram is clinically practical.Conclusion: The radiomics nomogram established and verified in this study showed good performance for the preoperative histological prediction of gastric cancer, which might contribute to the formulation of a better clinical treatment plan.
A DESIGUALDADE DE GÊNERO NA FÓRMULA 1, FUTEBOL E RUGBY: DESCONSTRUÇÃO DISCURSIVA
Authors: Bertoncini Carla , Caldonazzo Tayana Roberta Muniz
Published: December 2021

O presente trabalho trata da desigualdade de gênero nos esportes, possuindo um viés interdisciplinar entre Direito Constitucional e seu diálogo com questões de Gênero. A pesquisa justifica-se pela existência de discursos que tendem a perpetuar a desigualdade de gênero no mundo esportivo. Objetiva-se demonstrar referidos discursos, a partir de uma revisão bibliográfica, e a importância de desconstruí-los. Parte-se do seguinte problema: as desigualdades de gênero nos esportes têm bases biológicas ou são construídas a partir de reflexos de uma sociedade patriarcal? A hipótese – que se confirmou - é de que há um discurso – criado em um contexto de desejo de manutenção de poder masculino – que contribui para as desigualdades de gênero no campo esportivo. Nesse sentido verificam-se afirmações de uma suposta incapacidade da mulher que a impediria de participar de modalidades, além de outras barreiras à inclusão feminina, como questionamentos acerca de seus corpos que fugiriam de um padrão de feminilidade. Para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa trabalha-se com o ideal de igualdade, investigam-se questões de gênero no universo esportivo, bem como se adentram em especificidades de modalidades como futebol, rugby e Fórmula 1. Utilizou-se o método dedutivo, além de pesquisas bibliográficas e eletrônicas em teses, livros, dissertações, periódicos e notícias.
EDUCAÇÃO DOMICILIAR: DIREITO FUNDAMENTAL, LIMITES E POSSIBILIDADES JURÍDICAS
Authors: Cimadon Aristides , Lückmann Luiz Carlos
Published: December 2021

O presente estudo tem por objetivo discorrer sobre as possibilidades jurídicas e os limites para legalizar a Educação Domiciliar no Brasil. Traz uma breve reflexão sobre o momento regulatório da educação brasileira e distingue os conceitos de educação, ensino, aprendizagem, instrução e escola. Em seguida passa a conceituar Educação Domiciliar como uma possibilidade de aprender sem seguir rigidamente os programas escolares, por meio de um percurso mais personalizado. É um tema controverso. Apesar da proibição regulatória, há inúmeras famílias, no Brasil, que optaram pela escolarização em casa. Todavia, ações judiciais têm condenado os pais que praticam a Homeschooling à litigância de “abandono intelectual”.      Discutem-se os limites legais a partir dos ditames das leis brasileiras, além dos Tratados e Convenções internacionais. Apresenta-se a possibilidade da regulação e normatização dessa modalidade de ed
SOCIEDADE DE CONSUMO E A (IN)SUSTENTABILIDADE DO SISTEMA CAPITALISTA VIGENTE
Authors: Cenci Daniel Rubens , Heineck Willian Matheus
Published: December 2021

RESUMO: O presente trabalho aborda a relação entre homem e natureza na perspectiva existencial, qual seja, a dependência do ser humano no que tange a sua vida e bem-estar, frente a necessidade de consumir. Tal prática causa uma gama de consequências que podem comprometer a própria existência humana na Terra. O objetivo é analisar os impactos causados pela escolha consumista de vida e a organização capitalista da economia, sua condição insustentável frente a crise ambiental cotidiana. Em termos metodológicos, trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, uma vez que se busca apresentar formas de (re)interpretar a sociedade de consumo e a construção de saberes outros, para uma sociedade sustentável, voltada para o respeito à natureza e a todas as formas de vida, superando o modelo capitalista de produção e consumo vigente.
“The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”? The influence of dark triad personality traits on formation of entrepreneurial intentions
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Bogatyreva Karina A. , Laskovaia Anastasia K. ,   St. Petersburg State University, Klemina, Tatiana N. Tatiana N. ,   St. Petersburg State University, Orekhova Yulia A. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: December 2021

This article examines the influence of the “dark triad” personality traits — narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy — on the development of entrepreneurial intentions through the prism of the theory of planned behavior. The theory explains entrepreneurial intentions formation trough emergence and development of the attitude towards entrepreneurship, relevant subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. These personality traits are considered in the study in their non-clinical manifestations. The proposed theoretical model has been tested on a sample of 191 students and graduates from 13 Russian universities. The empirical data were collected through an online survey. The analysis was carried out with OLS estimation. To assess the mediation effects, the PROCESS macro for the SPSS data analysis package was employed. The study identifies the key role of narcissism as an antecedent of intention to start one’s own business, while the main element of the theory of planned behavior mediating psychological effects is the attitude towards entrepreneurship. In addition, a negative relationship between psychopathy and subjective norms as well as perceived behavioral control has been established. With this study, we contribute to the theory of personality traits in the context of entrepreneurship and expand knowledge about the role of negatively perceived individual psychological characteristics in the entrepreneurial process. In addition, this work details the theory of planned behavior in terms of identifying possible antecedents of attitudes towards entrepreneurship, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. The results of this study can be used by entrepreneurship educators, especially in courses and trainings on the psychology of entrepreneurship.
Human resource management in times of crises 2008–2009 and 2020–2021: Comparative analysis
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Shpringer Anastasia S.
Published: December 2021

The purpose of the study is to identify the features of human resource management (HRM) in the context of the crises (2008–2009 and 2020–2021). A review of secondary sources on HRM during both crises revealed five HRM practices necessary to mitigate the impact of the crisis on the organization and its employees: optimization of the organization's work; maintaining transparency of communications between employees; recruiting; training and development; retention and motivation. The implementation of these practices was considered for each of the crises and a comparative analysis was done. The study showed that HRM has been transformed: the key features of HRM in the crisis of 2008–2009 was a decrease in personnel costs, while in the crisis of 2020–2021 the main issue for HRM was the transfer of employees to a remote work, the introduction of digital technologies to maintain the functioning of all business processes, actions aimed to combat the stress of employees and to maintain their well-being as well as physical and psychological health. The scientific novelty lies in the comparative analysis of HRM in Russian companies during the crises of 2008–2009 and 2020–2021 and identifying aspects of HRM transformation over this period. The results of this study can be used by modern organizations as an agenda to improve the effectiveness of HRM practices during a crisis as well as to plan further HRM development, and prepare a crisis management plan.
New possibilities of screening for mental disorders in cardiology practice
Authors:   St. Petersburg Multidisciplinary Hospital No. 2, Zadvorev Sergei , Dorofeikova Mariia ,   Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Petrova Natalia ,   St. Petersburg State University, Yakovlev Artyom ,   St. Petersburg Multidisciplinary Hospital No. 2,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: December 2021

Aim of the study: validation of novel algorithm for screening of mental comorbidity in general medical practice. Based on retrospectively formed registry of patients, we assessed an effectiveness of the previously proposed Psycho-cardiac comorbidity Index. An external validation was provided, with subgroup analysis on cohort of patients who presented with suspected “Non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome” (N = 577), with assessment of psychopharmacotherapy prescription rate and prevalence of anxiety and depression. Another validation was carried out via comparison with patients with verified mental disorders (N = 235). A positive association was found between magnitude of Psycho-cardiac comorbidity index and Hospital anxiety and depression subscales (r = 0.26, p < 0.001 for anxiety subscale, r = 0.17, p = 0.026 for depression subscale), over-diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome at pre-hospital stage (r = –0.27, p < 0.0001), as well as with neurotic, affective and somatoform mental disorders (average Index 8.59 vs. 7.52 points, U = 6040.5, p = 0.041). The found pattern may be useful for clinicians for screening for patients who require a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment.