bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute and Long-term Effects of Saxagliptin on a Set of Cardiovascular Targets Measured at Fasting and Post-prandially in Obese Patients With Impaired Glucose Tolerance: a Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Double-blind Study
Authors: Rezki Amel , Cosson Emmanuel , Fysekidis Marinos , Chiheb Sabrina , Vicaut Eric , Valensi Paul
Published: September 2020

Background: Studies of dipeptidyl peptidase inhibitors (DPP4is) report heterogeneous effects on cardiovascular targets in type 2 diabetes. Little is known about the cardiovascular effects of DPP4is in patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in particular during the post-prandial state. Methods: In this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, single-center pilot study, we included obese individuals with IGT. Participants were randomized to receive for 12 weeks either saxagliptin 5mg a day or placebo. They were explored non-invasively before and after a standardized breakfast for biological markers; microcirculatory blood flow at baseline and after transcutaneous administration of acetylcholine (Periflux System 5000® PERIMED); post-occlusive digital reactive hyperhemia (Endopat2000®); pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, central pulse pressure and subendocardial viability ratio (Sphygmocor®); cardiac hemodynamic parameters and cardiovascular autonomic nervous system activity (Task force monitor®). Results: We investigated 24 individuals (mean body mass index 36.8±4.8 kg/m2, hypertension 33.3%). The results of all the investigations were similar after breakfast in the two groups at Visit 1 (acute post-prandial effects, after the first tablet) and Visit 2 (long-term post-prandial effects), and at fasting at Visit 1 and 2 (long-term effects, after 12 weeks of treatment). Only at Visit 2 the decrease in cardiac vagal activity occurring after breakfast was more sustained in the saxagliptin group than in the placebo group (interaction between treatment and time effect: p=0.016).Conclusion: In obese patients with IGT, among the large set of cardiovascular parameters we measured in the fasting and post-prandial state, the unique change induced by saxagliptin consisted in a more marked post-prandial depression of vagal activity. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT01521312
Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Porphyromonas Gingivalis Strains Isolated From Periodontal Patients by Three Testing Protocols
Authors: Isbej Lorena , Oyarzo Natacha , Contreras María José , Ortuño Duniel , Lam Marusella , García Patricia
Published: September 2020

Background: The main goal of antimicrobials is to eliminate microorganisms that persists despite mechanical treatment. This is the case of Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), frequently isolated in patients with periodontitis. Global antibiotic studies evaluated in randomized clinical trials and in vitro studies have shown mixed results regarding effectiveness and susceptibility, even with different protocols where it is not clear if the laboratory test applied can affect the results. This information is relevant in order to obtain clinical outcomes and prevent antimicrobial resistance for their over-prescription or inadequate choice. The objective of this study was to describe the antimicrobial susceptibility in vitro of Pg to metronidazole, clindamycin, amoxicillin plus clavulanate, moxifloxacin and azithromycin in periodontal patients by three testing protocols.Methods: Microbiological samples were obtained in patients with a diagnosis of generalized moderate or severe periodontitis. They were incubated in anaerobic conditions for up to 7 days, and those morphologically compatible with Pg were isolated and identified by a mass spectrometer (MALDI-TOF MS). The three most frequently protocols for antimicrobials susceptibility tests (Blood agar- McFarland 0.5- Epsilometer test; Brucella blood agar- McFarland 1.0- Epsilometer test; Brucella blood agar- McFarland 0.5-Agar dilution) were applied to the same strain describing their profile and reporting any difference between the tests. The breakpoints considered the guidelines of CLSI and previous publications.Results: 50 patients (25 women, 25 men) with periodontitis between 34-69 years were selected. Finally, 25 Pg positives strains (50%) were recovered for the susceptibility analysis and all of them were highly sensitive to all antibiotics (range 96%-100%). Only one strain was resistant to azithromycin in one protocol, and no differences were found in the susceptibility results between the three tests.Conclusion: The Pg strains were highly susceptible to the five antibiotics evaluated in this population, showed a high level of susceptibility and significant agreement between the three tests applied, therefore the type of laboratory test used had not impacted on clinical interpretation. These findings are positives in terms of susceptibility and would provide several antibiotics treatment alternatives, and its prescription could be the best choice for the patient's specific context.
Solitaire AB thrombectomy system: immediate results in 17 acute limb ischemia patients
Authors: Zhou Yangyi , Sutedjo Janesya , Gong Maofeng , Kong Jie , Zhao Boxiang , He Xu , Su Haobo
Published: September 2020

Background

Solitaire AB stent was approved for mechanical thrombectomy for acute cerebral infarction.
Objectives

To present our initial experience regarding the efficacy and safety of mechanical thrombectomy using the Solitaire AB device for the treatment of acute limb ischemia (ALI).
Patients and methods

17 consecutive patients presenting with acute limb ischemia underwent endovascular therapy using the Solitaire AB device. Immediate angiographic results and early clinical outcomes are presented.
Results

Technical success was achieved in 15 patients (88.2%).Recanalization of more than IIb on the TILI scale was achieved for 15 patients. Mean times of thrombectomy attempts were 3 times.41.2%(n = 7) had excellent results. 41.2%(n = 7) patients had good results. 2 had fair results, and 1 patient had a poor result. 30days amputation rate was 6%(n = 1).There was no death case.
The Burden of Liver Cirrhosis in Mortality: Results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017
Authors: Ye Fei , Zhai Mimi , Long Jianhai , Shu Bo , Liu Chun , Gong Yi , Li Li , Zhang Dan , He Chao , Liu Sushun
Published: September 2020

Background: Liver cirrhosis related death is a serious threat worldwide. Rare study explored the mortality trend of liver cirrhosis caused by specific etiologies. This study aimed to demonstrated the pattern and trend based on GBD data.Methods: The liver cirrhosis mortality data was collected from GBD 2017. The ASR and EAPC were used to estimate the temporal trend of liver cirrhosis mortality by etiologies, regions, SDI and sexes.Results: Globally, mortality cases of liver cirrhosis increased 47.15%. Though the global ASR of liver cirrhosis mortality reminded stable during the period, the temporal trend varied in etiologies. The ASR of liver cirrhosis mortality caused by HCV, alcohol consumption and NASH increased with an EPAC of 0.17 (95% CI 0.14–0.20), 0.20 (95% CI 0.16–0.24), 1.00 (95% CI 0.97–1.04), respectively. A decrease trend of ASR was found in etiologies for HBV and other causes. The increase pattern was heterogeneous worldwide. The most pronounced increase trend was found in middle-high SDI regions and Eastern Europe. In contrary, the most pronounced decrease trend was found in low SDI regions and Western Sub-Saharan Africa.Conclusion: Liver cirrhosis is still a public health problem. The growth trend of liver cirrhosis mortality caused by HCV has been slowed by promoting direct-acting antiviral therapy. Unfortunately, we observed an unfavorable trend in etiologies for alcohol consumption and NASH, suggesting that more targeted and specific strategies should be established to limit alcohol consumption and promote healthy lifestyles in high risk countries, especially in middle-high SDI regions and Eastern Europe.
GM-CSF signaling is critical for HER2+ breast leptomeningeal carcinomatosis
Authors: Ansari Khairul , Bhan Arunoday , Chen Mike , Jandial Rahul
Published: September 2020

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LC), when tumor cells spread to leptomeninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord. HER2+ breast cancer is the most common origin of LC. HER2+ LC remains incurable, with few treatment options and response rates of <20%. One major limitation in development of HER2+ LC therapies has been lack of clinically relevant HER2+ LC primary cell-lines and animal models. To address this, we generated cell lines and patient-derived xenograft models using nodular HER2+ LC. This led to identification of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) as an oncogenic autocrine driver of HER2+ LC. We observed that oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) inhibit growth of HER2+ LC in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, OPC-derived factor TPP1 degrades GM-CSF, decreasing GM-CSF signaling and suppressing HER2+ LC growth. Lastly, we determined that synergistic inactivation of GM-CSF signaling via the intrathecal delivery neutralizing anti-GM-CSF antibodies and a pan-Aurora kinase inhibitor (CCT137690) antagonizes development of HER2+ LC in vivo.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Methylprednisolone Pulse Therapy in Treatment of Covid-19 Adult Patients with Severe Respiratory Failure: Randomized, Clinical Trial
Authors: Farahani Ramin Hamidi , Mosaed Reza , Nezami-Asl Amir , chamanara Mohsen , Soleiman-Meigooni Saeed , Kalantar Shahab , zoshk Mojtaba Yousefi , Malekabad Ebad Shiri , Hazrati Ebrahim
Published: September 2020

Background: Covid-19 is now global concern and widely spread to the world due to high mortality among the nations we tried to evaluate the efficacy of methylprednisolone pulse in COVID-19 patients with severe respiratory failure.Methods: This study was phase2, double-blind, randomized, clinical trial in adults with COVID-19 (aged ≥18 years old) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of *. Patients with intermediate or severe COVID-19 with PaO2/FiO2 less than 300 and progressive disease unresponsive to standard treatments admitted to ICU. Patients were randomly allocated in either control or investigation group. The control group received recommended regimen for COVID-19. The investigation group received the recommended regimen plus Methylprednisolone (1000mg/day for three days) and oral prednisolone 1mg/kg with tapering of dose within ten days. Results: A total of 29 ICU patients with intermediate or severe COVID-19 pneumonia recruited in this study. Fourteen patients (4 female, ten male) allocated in the investigation group, and 15 patients (6 female, nine male) assigned to the control group. The participant’s average age was 64.03±13.545 (case: 61.07±12.83, control: 66.80±14.03). The patients with methylprednisolone pulse had significantly higher systolic (P=0.018) and diastolic (P=0.001) blood pressure, meanwhile, the Glasgow coma scale (GCS) of methylprednisolone group was considerably (P<0.001) higher, and by the improvement in SpO2 of methylprednisolone group none of these patients needed mechanical ventilation.Conclusion: This study demonstrated methylprednisolone pulse in COVID-19 severe respiratory failure dramatically improves the clinical condition of patients including, GCS, and SpO2 of patients.Clinical Trial Registration Number: IRCT20200406046963N1
Do Laboratory Biomarkers Predict Survival in Severe COVID-19? A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bahadur Sher , Rahim Fawad , Amin Said , Noor Mohammad , Mahmood Afsheen , Gul Huma , Usman Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Asif , Ullah Raza , Shahab Khalid , Haq Anwar Ul
Published: September 2020

BackgroundAvailable research compared serum biomarkers such as lymphocyte count, C-reactive protein, ferritin, Lactate Dehydrogenase and D-dimers to predict survival in patients with mild, moderate and severe COVID-19. This study aims to compare these biomarkers among survivors and non-survivors of severe COVID-19. MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study based on patient’s data retrieved from Hospital Information System. Sixty-nine patients for whom a record of the biomarkers and survival status was available, were included in the study. For every patient, baseline and peak values were selected for CRP level, serum ferritin level, serum LDH level and serum D-Dimer level. Similarly, baseline and trough levels were selected for lymphocytes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Mean and standard deviation was used to compare the biomarkers with paired t-test. P value less than 0.05 was taken as significant. ResultsThe mean age of the study population was 55.5±9.1 years and 72.5% were male. Among survivors, the increase in CRP level was not significant (from 15.80±9.8 mg/dl to 17.87 ±8.4 mg/dl, p=0.45) while among the non-survivor, the increase in CRP level was significant (from 16.68± 10.90 mg/dl to 20.77±12.69 mg/dl, p=0.04). There was no significant rise in serum LDH levels in survivors (from 829.59±499 U/L to 1018.6±468 U/L, p=0.20) while there was a statistically significant increase in serum LDH level in non-survivors (from 816.2±443.08 U/L to 1056.61±480.54 U/L, p=0.003). Lymphocyte count decreased significantly in both survivors (p=0.001) and non-survivors (p=0.001). There was no statistically significant elevation in serum ferritin among the survivors and non-survivors (p > 0.05). The D-Dimer level increased significantly in both survivors (p=0.01) and non-survivors (p=0.001).Conclusions In severe COVID-19 patients, serum CRP and LDH can be used for risk stratification and predicting survival. Lymphopenia, increase in serum ferritin and D-dimers may not predict survival.Trial Registration Not applicable
On investigations of the observed thermal anomaly in earthquake precursors: A case study from the 1993 Latur earthquake prone area in western India
Authors: Dimri Vijay P , Padhy Simanchal , Mondal N C , Reddy G K , Ramacharyulu G G. , Singh V S , Sokamble S R , Shanker C
Published: September 2020

We report and discuss monitoring of short-term variations of widely used multi-geophysical parameters in Latur-Killari area in western India, the region that faced a major devastating earthquake in 1993. An abnormal rise in atmospheric temperature of more than 20 ° C at 11200 m height was observed in the air-flight just 100 km away from Latur during a monsoon period. To investigate the causes of such temperature rise, we studied seismicity of the area in relation to the 1993 Latur event, and continuously monitored ground-water level and soil Helium gas for one week immediately following this observation under a precursory ‘quick please’ operation in the study area. There are no precursory seismic signals associated with this temperature rise; hence the operation was suspended after one week time. Although this thermal anomaly is not followed by any major earthquake over the area, it has larger implications in atmosphere research area. While a detailed investigation of such anomaly is beyond the scope this paper, we report here the possibility that the satellite thermal sensor cannot penetrate thick clouds to accurately retrieve the temperature. We are cautious of arriving at a firm conclusion, but the findings of this study certainly call for continuous monitoring of temperature over the earthquake prone areas to gain insight into the physics of short-lived variation in temperature over spatially limited extent, especially over the earthquake prone areas for improved seismic hazard assessment.
Labor efficiency, government spending and productivity nexus based on panel ARDL approach: Evidence from selected European countries
Authors: Xuezhou Wen , Hussain Rana Yassir , Hussain Haroon , Saad Muhammad , Qalati Sikandar Ali , Ali Shaibu
Published: September 2020

The current study advocates the role of efficient labor, average gross earnings per person, government spending, and quality of human life in defining the productivity of thirteen European countries. This study applied panel ARDL approach for data period ranging from 2001 to 2016. The results, in the long run, suggested that more efficient labor, increased gross earnings, and higher HDI causes higher productivity in the selected European countries. However, the results for the gross earnings were positive but insignificant. Government spending and inflation had a significant negative impact on productivity. These results suggest to keep inflation in check and limit the government expenditure to human development and to the productive uses in the selected countries.
Comparing of the reduction accuracy of marker-3D measurement method and traditional radiograph measurement method in the treatment of patients with tibia fracture treated with Taylor Spatial Frame: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu QiXin , Li Hong , Liu SiDa , Fu XueFei , Liu YanShi , Zhang XingPeng , Zhang JinLi , Weng NengYuan , Zhang Tao
Published: September 2020

Background

The Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) has been widely used on tibia fractures. However, traditional radiograph measurement method is complicated and the reduction accuracy is not high enough for correcting residual deformities. We proposed the marker-3D measurement method to solve these problems. This study aimed to compare the reduction accuracy of the traditional radiograph measurement method and the marker-3D measurement method in tibia fracture treated with TSF.
Methods

From January 2016 to June 2019, A retrospective analysis was performed based on the patients with tibia fracture treated with TSF in Tianjin Hospital. Forty-one patients were qualified for this study, including 21 patients in the marker-3D measurement group (experimental group) and 20 patients in the traditional radiograph measurement group (control group). In the experimental group, CT scan was performed for 3D reconstruction with 6 markers installed on the TSF, to determine the adjusting plan; in the control group, the Anteroposterior (AP) and Lateral radiographs were performed for the deformity parameters. All fractures were corrected after TSF adjusting, and then X-rays were taken to measure the residual deformities.
Results

All patients reached functional reduction. The residual displacement deformity (RDD) in AP radiograph was 0.5 (0, 1.72) mm in experimental group and 1.74 (0.43, 3.67) mm in control group; the residual angle deformity (RAD) in AP radiograph was 0 (0, 1.25) ° in experimental group and 1.25 (0.62, 1.95) °in control group. As to the Lateral radiograph, the RDD was 0 (0, 1.22) mm in experimental group and 2.02 (0, 3.74) mm in control group; the RAD was 0 (0, 0) ° in experimental group and 1.42 (0, 1.93) ° in control group. Significant differences in all above comparisons were found between the groups (AP radiograph RDD: P = 0.024, RAD: P = 0.020; Lateral radiograph RDD: P = 0.016, RAD: P = 0.004).
Conclusion

Both groups achieved satisfactory fracture reduction. However, the residual deformities in the experimental group were significantly smaller. This study proved that the marker-3D measurement method could further improve the accuracy of the reduction.
Sex-Specific Impact of Diabetes Mellitus on Left Ventricular Systolic Function and Prognosis in Heart Failure
Authors: Kwak Soongu , Hwang In-Chang , Park Jin Joo , Park Jae-Hyeong , Park Jun-Bean , Cho Goo-Yeong
Published: September 2020

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) aggravates the clinical features and outcomes of heart failure (HF). However, the sex-specific cardiovascular consequence of DM in HF patients remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the sex differences in associations of DM with echocardiographic phenotypes and clinical outcomes of HF.Methods: We studied 4,180 patients admitted for acute HF between 2009 and 2016 (median follow-up, 31.7 months), whose left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS) data were available. Patients were compared by sex and DM. Structural equation model (SEM) analysis was performed to evaluate the moderating effects of two causal paths, via ischemic heart disease (IHD) and LV-GLS, linking DM with mortality by sex. Results: Among 1,431 patients with HF and DM (34.2%), women had more preserved LV systolic function, whereas men had more ischemic etiology. Compared to non-diabetic women, diabetic women had lower LV-GLS (11.3% versus 10.1%, p<0.001), but the difference was attenuated within men (9.7% versus 9.2%, p=0.014). In Cox analyses, DM was an independent predictor for higher mortality in both women and men, with a statistically insignificant but higher relative risk in women than men (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15-1.59 for women versus HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07-1.44 for men, p for interaction=0.669). Restricted cubic spline curves showed that LV-GLS consistently declined, and mortality increased in women as hyperglycemia became more severe, but these trends were not evident in men. In SEM analysis, the main driver from DM to mortality differed by sex; men had a stronger effect via IHD than LV-GLS, whereas effect mediating LV-GLS was the only predominant path in women.Conclusions: DM increases the mortality risk in HF irrespective of sex. However, the main driver leading to mortality differed by sex, suggesting the importance of sex-specific strategies for HF management.
74 Days Dynamic Changes of Chest CT Images of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Hebei Province, China
Authors: Liang jianqin , Liu Guizeng , Yu Shuzhuang , Yang Yang , Li Yanchun , Tian Hongli , Chen Zhe
Published: September 2020

Background

Since December 2019, the COVID-19 infection broke out in many parts of the world with confirmed and death cases rapidly increasing, which posed a great threat to human life and health. Current nucleic acid detection and antibody testing for the SARS-CoV-2 were the main methods for diagnosis of COVID-19, but not so sensitive, with high false negative rate and missed diagnosis rate. Imaging changes of COVID-19 not only precede symptomatic changes, but also have different imaging characteristics in different periods. We conducted 74 days of dynamic chest CT imaging observation on COVID-19 patients in Hebei province, aiming to understand the dynamic characteristics of the chest CT changes of COVID-19, so as to find the source of infection early, take early intervention measures, and judge the prognosis. Methods Chest CT examinations at intervals 1 to 4 days were conducted for 11 patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19. On the 74th day after onset, chest CT was reexamined to analyze the characteristics of chest CT in each stage. Results Of the 11 cases, 1 case was imported from Wuhan, 10 cases were infected for family clustering after close contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases. There were 3 ordinary cases, 3 severe cases and 5 critical cases. Among them, 2 critical cases died for old age and complications of underlying diseases, while 9 cases were cured by April 7, 2020. The changes of chest CT imaging in 1 child appeared prior to the clinical symptoms. 1–4 days after onset of the initial symptom were the early stages: Chest CT was mainly characterized by single lung quasi-circular ground glass shadow and fine mesh shadow. 5–10 days were the progressive stages: The lesion spread along the axial interstitium of the bronchi and gradually diffused to the whole lung, and reach the peak on day 6 to 9, which was characterized by consolidation, paving stone sign, halo sign, reversed halo sign, and even ‘white lung’ for the critical patients. The recovery stages began on day 11 after onset: The fiber cord, ground glass and consolidation shadow were gradually absorbed. After 74 days of follow-up, no serious permanent lung injury was found. Conclusion Chest CT could determine the different stages of COVID-19. Dynamic follow-up chest CT showed a good prognosis of COVID-19 in Hebei Province, China
Identification and Comparative Profiling of microRNAs at Different Diapause Stages of Galeruca Daurica Adults
Authors: Duan Tian-Feng , Li Ling , Tan Yao , Li Yan-Yan , Pang Bao-Ping
Published: September 2020

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs of approximately 22 nt in length, which regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Although the regulatory roles of miRNAs in various physiological processes throughout insect development have been investigated, it is almost unknown about the roles of miRNAs involved in the regulation of diapause in insects.Results: We constructed 12 small RNA libraries from Galeruca daurica adults at different diapause stages: pre-diapause (PD), diapause (D), post-diapause 1 (TD1), and post-diapause 2 (TD2). Using Illumina sequencing, a total of 95.06 million valid reads was obtained, and 230 miRNAs, including 143 conserved and 87 novel miRNAs, were identified from G. daurica. The expression profiles of these miRNAs were assessed across different diapause stages and miRNAs that were highly expressed at different diapause stages were identified. Comparative analysis of read counts indicated that both conserved and novel miRNAs were differently expressed among the four different diapause stages, and the differential expression was validated via qRT-PCR. The 25, 11, 15, 14, 26, and one miRNAs were differentially expressed in D/PD, D/TD1, D/TD2, TD1/PD, TD2/PD, and TD2/TD1, respectively. The KEGG and GO analysis of the predicted target genes suggested the essential roles of miRNAs in the regulation of summer diapause in G. daurica, especially via the juvenile hormone, ribosome, MAPK signaling, mTOR signaling, Ca2+ signaling, and G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathways.Conclusion: Our research results indicate that miRNAs may be involved in the regulation of summer diapause in G. daurica, and these results also provide an important new small RNA genomics resource for further studies on insect diapause.
Continuous infusion of dexamethasone aggravates the damage of cartilage via upregulating p-AKT and impairing articular autophagy in experimental OA model
Authors: chen liang , Ni Zhenhong , Zhang Jinfan , Huang Junlan , Xie Yangli , Zhang Bin , Kuang Liang , Sun Xianding , Zhang Dali , Su Nan , Qi Huabing , Tan Qiaoyan , Yang Jing , Jin Min , Luo Fengtao , Chen Hangang , Zhou Siru , Du Xiaolan , Ouyang Junjie , Wang Zuqiang , Chen Lin
Published: September 2020

Objective

To explore the effect of dexamethasone (Dex) infusion on articular cartilage and the underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo.
Methods

Destabilization of medial meniscus (DMM)-induced OA mouse model was used in this study. The mice with Dex treatment were sacrificed and then the knee joint samples were obtained for pathological analysis. Mouse primary chondrocytes were isolated and cultured in the presence or absence of Dex, which were used for calcification analysis and western blot assay.
Results

Dex accelerated the loss of articular cartilage matrix in mice, while it aggravated the damage of cartilage in DMM-induced OA model at the late stage. The calcium content in calcified cartilage layer in the joints from Dex treated OA mice was significantly higher than that from control mice. Dex treatment enhanced mineralization of articular cartilage matrix and leaded to massive apoptosis of chondrocytes in OA model. In addition, Dex caused autophagy of chondrocytes in the early stage, which was decreased at the late stage of Dex treatment. Moreover, we found that the effect of Dex on the mineralization of articular cartilage matrix in mice was related to AKT activation.
Conclusions

Continuous infusion of Dex can enhance the calcification of cartilage via AKT activation and increase chondrocyte apoptosis through inhibiting autophagy, which aggravates the damage of articular cartilage and accelerates the progression of OA in vivo.
A Functional Variant of CXCL16 Predisposes to Sepsis and MODS in Traumatic Patients
Authors: Sun Jianhui , Zhang Huacai , Liu Di , Cui Li , Wang Qiang , Gan Lebin , Wen Dalin , Wang Jun , Du Juan , Huang Hong , Zhang Anqiang , Deng Jin , Jiang Jianxin , Zeng Ling
Published: September 2020

Background: CXC chemokine famliy genes play an important role in inflammatory and immune diseases. CXCL16 affects the occurrence and development of inflammation through leukocyte chemotaxis, leukocyte adhesion and endotoxin clearance. We selected a set of tagSNPs in CXCL16 gene and investigated their clinical relevance in relation to the development of sepsis and MODS in patients with major trauma in three independent Chinese Han populations.Methods: A total of 1,620 major trauma patients were enrolled in this study. Among which, 920 patients came from Chongqing in western China, 350 patients came from Zhejiang province in eastern China and 350 patients came from Guizhou province in southern China. Improved multiplex ligation detection reaction (iMLDR) was used in the genotyping and genetic association study was used to analyze the association between CXCL16 haplotypes and sepsis morbidity rate and higher MOD Scores in three cohorts. Results: CXCL16 T123V181 haplotype was associated with an increased risk for sepsis morbidity rate and higher MOD Scores in three cohorts. In vitro chemotactic experiment showed that T123V181 protein enhanced the chemotaxis of immunocytes. The adhesion ability of THP-1 cells which expressing T123V181 to immunocytes was also stronger than that of the other three haplotypes. T123 and V181 altered the structure of CXCL16 active center, which led to the change of protein function and the change of adhesion and chemotaxis of CXCL16 expressing immunocytes. The structural change might be the cause of the increased incidence of sepsis and higher score of MODS.Conclusions: We demonstrate that CXCL16 genetic variation regulates sepsis morbidity rate and explore a paradigm for the prewarning diagnosis of sepsis tailored by individual genetic information.Trial registration： ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT01713205. Registered 18 October 2012, retrospectively registered.
An Efficient and Stable Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation System for Rubber Grass ( Taraxacum Spp. )
Authors: Peng Cunzhi , Chang Lili , Wang Dan , Xie Quanliang , Zheng Xingmei , Tong Zheng , Xu Bingqiang
Published: September 2020

BackgroundRubber grass is excellent alternatives to Hevea and ideal model plants for natural rubber research through genetic transformation. However, the transformation is unstable due to the high heterozygosity of rubber grass and the efficiency of the existing transformation system could not well satisfy the needs of the studies on key gene functions of natural rubber biosynthesis.ResultsHere, we report an efficient and stable Agrobacterium-mediated transformation system of rubber grass species using young leaves as explants. An excellent rubber grass species, named as 12-16, that is suitable for tissue culture was selected from a wild germplasm repository collected from Xinjiang. The total regeneration efficiency of 12-16 which cultivated on shoot regeneration medium (Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium plus 1.5 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA) and 0.1 mg/L naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA)) was 100%, and the excellent regeneration shoots reached in 74.1%. Finally, two genes, rubber elongation factors 138 (REF138) and rubber elongation factors 258 (REF258) driven under an enhanced 35S promoter were transformed into 12-16 by Agrobacterium tumefaciens GV3101 mediated genetic transformation. The final transformation efficiency exceeded 20% and the total transformation cycle from leaf explants to hygromycin-resistant seedling lasted approximately 3–4 months.ConclusionsWe provides a highly efficient transformation system based on rubber grass germplasm 12-16 for the introduction of interest genes into rubber grass and provides important technical support for rubber biosynthesis research.
Albedo Solution to Global Warming In the Control of CO2, Hotspots, & Hydro-Hotspots Forcing and Their Albedo-GHG Interactions
Authors: Feinberg Alec
Published: September 2020

Although global warming (GW) albedo solutions are currently not being used worldwide, they are anticipated to be vital as a significant supplement to CO2 reduction efforts. Conservatively, albedo surface controls are seriously lacking. Furthermore, without albedo solutions there is a reasonable probability, as many authors have suggested, for a 1.5oC-3oC GW increase, which is expected to be enough for a tipping point to occur. An important aspect to bring to the attention of policymakers is the albedo-greenhouse gas (GHG) interactions. We model this interaction which has a major influence in assessing climate change. For example, modeling is used to help exemplify the amount of albedo surface area modification required to mitigate CO2 GW effects. Additionally, albedo controls are the only way to mitigate impermeable hotspots and hydro-hotspots surfaces that have increased at an alarming rate. We illustrate their growth rate; discuss their historical recognized significance and known correlations to climate change. Our results are directed toward influencing policymakers on the unique practical aspects of albedo solutions and their imminent need.
Impact of 2017 ACC/AHA Guideline on Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, Control and Risk Factors of Hypertension: a Population-based, Cross-sectional Study in Iran
Authors: Sadeghi Fatemeh , Cheraghian Bahman , Mohammadi Zahra , Sepanlou Sadaf G , Masoudi Sahar , Rahimi Zahra , Danehchin Leila , Paridar Yousef , Abolnejadian Farhad , Noori Mohammad , Mard Seyed Ali , Shayesteh Ali Akbar , Poustchi Hossein
Published: September 2020

Background: In 2017, the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) provided a new guideline for hypertension prevention and management. We aimed to update the prevalence, awareness, control and risk factors of hypertension based on this guideline and to estimate the number of people who are eligible for non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic intervention. Methods: This population-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in Khuzestan, a large province in the southwest of Iran. Comprehensive information about the potential risk factors of hypertension was collected and blood pressure, blood biomarkers, and anthropometric were measured. Moreover, the dietary pattern was evaluated in 10% of the participants, using a qualitative food frequency questionnaire.Results: A total number of 30,506 individuals aged 20-65 years was included in this study. In comparison to previous guideline (JNC8), the prevalence of hypertension in Khuzestan dramatically increased by 27.04% after implementation of ACC/AHA (15.81% vs 42.85%), which was more dominant in the male population and the 50-59 age group. The sex and age adjustment of the hypertension prevalence was estimated to be 39.40%. The number of individuals required antihypertensive treatment was slightly increased from 15.53% to 21.18%; however, the level of awareness and control dramatically dropped by 23.17% & 31.78%, respectively. All hypertension-related risk factors remained significant after applying the new guideline; however, the strength of the association was reduced in the risk factors like age, waist-hip ratio, body mass index, alcohol consumption, water pipe usage, and physical activity. Similarity, the association between hypertension and history of diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases were decreased by 38%, and 62%, respectively.Conclusions: In the ACC/AHA guideline, a higher number of individuals with the pre-hypertension condition had been shifted into the hypertension category and the level of awareness, treatment, and control was dramatically fallen, which highlight a great need to expand the public health infrastructure for further managing the substantial increase in the public health burden of hypertension.
Acute pulmonary embolism in acutely ill COVID-19 patients admitted to internal medicine wards.
Authors: FRIZ Hernan POLO , GELFI Elia , ORENTI Annalisa , MOTTO Elena , PRIMITZ Laura , DONZELLI Tino , INTOTERO Marcello , SCARPAZZA Paolo , VIGHI Giuseppe , CIMMINIELLO Claudio , BORACCHI Patrizia
Published: September 2020

INTRODUCTION. Emerging evidence linking COVID-19 to an increased risk of acute pulmonary embolism (APE). The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of APE in acutely ill COVID-19 patients admitted to internal medicine department wards and to investigate the association of clinical and biochemical variables with a confirmed diagnosis of APE. METHODS. All consecutive patients admitted to the internal medicine department wards of a general hospital with a diagnosis of severe COVID-19, who performed a Computer Tomography Pulmonary Angiography(CTPA) for respiratory deterioration in April 2020, were included. RESULTS. Study populations: 41 subjects, median(IRQ) age: 71.7(63-76) years, CPTA confirmed APE=8(19.51%,CI95%:8.82%-34.87%). Among patients with and without APE, no significant differences were found with regards symptoms, comorbidities, treatment, Wells score and outcomes. The optimal cut-off value of D-dimer for predicting APE was 2454 ng/mL, sensitivity(CI95%):63(24-91), specificity:73(54-87), Positive Predictive Value:36(13-65), Negative Predictive Value: 89(71-98) and AUC:0.62(0.38-0.85). The standard and age-adjusted D-dimer cut-offs, and the Wells score > 2 did not associate with confirmed APE, albeit a cut-off value of D-dimer=2454 ng/mL showed an RR:3.21;CI95%:0.92-13.97;p = 0.073.CONCLUSION. In acutely ill COVID-19 patients admitted to internal medicine department wards who performed CTPA for respiratory deterioration, the prevalence of APE was high, and the traditional diagnostic tools to identify high APE pre-test probability patients did not show to be clinically useful. These results support the use of a lower threshold of suspicion to perform CTPA for excluding or confirming APE as the most appropriate approach in this clinical setting.
Whole-Genome Characterization of Rosa Chinensis AP2/ERF Transcription Factors and Analysis of Negative Regulator RcDREB2B in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wei Li , Geng Ziwen , Cuiping Zhang , Kuiling Wang , Xinqiang Jiang
Published: September 2020

Background: Rose (Rosa chinensis) is a traditional famous flower with valuable ornamental characteristics. However, drought stress restricts its growth and development, leading to abnormal phenotype. APETALA2/ethylene-responsive factor (AP2/ERF) proteins are a kind of transcription factor (TF) protein groups in the plant kingdom, which are crucially involved in the growth and stress responses of most plants. Results: Our investigation focused on exploring the genome of rose and we discovered 135 apparent AP2/ERF TFs. Phylogenic analyses revealed that RcAP2/ERF genes are categorized into DREB, Soloist, AP2, and ERF subfamilies, and further classified these into 17 groups. Analysis of the gene structure revealed that the introns ranged from 0 to 9 in number. Pattern examination demonstrated that the RcAP2/ERF predominantly had typical AP2 domains, of which the 2nd motif is the most ubiquitous. Distributions of cis-acting elements showed members of the AP2/ERF family are involved in growth development and stress response in rose species. We carried out a distribution mapping of the seven rose chromosomes which revealed that AP2/ERF class genes are dispersed among all seven chromosomes. Additionally, we isolated a novel DREB A-2 subgroup gene and named it RcDREB2B. RcDREB2B transcript accumulation was repressed under mild drought and severe drought stress in the root samples of rose. RcDREB2B was targeted to the nucleus and exhibited transactivation in yeast cells. Overexpression of RcDREB2B resulted in enhanced sensitivity to high salt concentration, ABA, and PEG at the germination and post-germination stages. Twelve putative osmotic and ABA-related genes were impaired in RcDREB2B-overexpressing plants. Conclusion: The results provide comprehensive information regarding the gene structure, phylogenic, and distribution of rose AP2/ERF family and shed insight into the complex transcriptional gene regulation of RcAP2/ERF. Findings in this study would also contribute to further understanding of the RcDREB2B gene in rose.
Identification of immunological, inflammatory, hematological, and coagulation abnormalities associated with severity and mortality of COVID-19: a meta-analysis of 64 observational studies
Authors: He Li , Qin Rundong , Yang Zhaowei , Jia Nan , Chen Ruchong , Xie Jiaxing , Fu Wanyi , Chen Hao , Lin Xinliu , Huang Renbin , Luo Tian , Liu Yukai , Yao Siyang , Jiang Mei , Li Jing
Published: September 2020

BackgroundLaboratory abnormalities associated with disease severity and mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported in many observational studies. However, there are significant heterogeneities in patient characteristics and research methodologies in these studies.ObjectivesWe aimed to provide an updated synthesis of the association between laboratory abnormalities and COVID-19 prognosis.MethodsWe conducted an electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, Willey, Web of Science, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) for studies reporting hematological, coagulation, inflammatory, and immunological results during hospital admission of COVID-19 patients with different severities and outcomes.ResultsA total of 64 studies were included in the current meta-analysis, with 8 hematological, 3 coagulation, 5 inflammatory, and 23 immunological variables reported. Of them, white blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil counts (Neu), D-dimer level, procalcitonin (PCT), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), ferretin, serum amyloid A (SAA), interleukins (ILs)–2R, IL-6, and IL-10 were significantly increased in severely ill patients and non-survivors. Meanwhile, non-severely ill patients and survivors presented significantly higher counts of eosinophils, lymphocytes, and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. A majority of included variables presented with significant heterogeneity, some of which resulted from differing disease severities and ages of included patients.ConclusionsThe current meta-analysis provides a comprehensive and updated synthesis of the association between admission laboratory abnormalities with severity and mortality of COVID-19. Our results highlight that increases in the levels of PCT, ESR, CRP, ferretin, SAA, IL-2R, IL-6, and IL-10 were associated with disease deterioration, whereas elevated eosinophils, lymphocytes, and T-cell subsets might serve as indicators of favorable outcomes.
YOUTH MOVEMENT AND ISLAMIC LIBERALISM IN INDONESIA
Authors: Sahrasad Herdi
Published: September 2020

This article examines dynamics of Islamic discourses in Post-New Order Indonesia, focusing on the birth of Jaringan Islam Liberal/JIL (Islamic Liberalism Network). The network which emerged in 2001 was a result of informal meeting and group discussions of young intellectuals at Jl. Utan Kayu 68 H, East Jakarta who later agreed to establish the JIL. Since its earliest foundation, the networks has been at the forefront to attack Islamic extremist and fundamentalist groups while calling for Islamic liberalism. This article tries to portray the emergence of the JIL and its liberalism agenda and offers the contestation on Islamic liberalism in Indonesia. As for the latter, it not only encapsulates responses of fundamentalist groups, but also important Muslim organisation, like the traditionalist Nahdlatul Ulama/NU and the Modernist Muhammadiyah, and important Indonesian Muslim thinkers. This article further argues that Islamic liberalism that takes its root to Muslim activism during the New Order Indonesia has shaken the basic foundation of a religion as introducing liberalism in Islamic discourses. It has invited contestation and responses for a significant Muslim group, including the two-most important Indonesian Muslim organisations, the NU and the Muhammadiyah. As this article further demonstrates, the contestation is mainly because of different opinions among Muslims on the limit of reason to understand religion.
Synthesis of Drugs and Biorelevant N-heterocycles Employing Recent Advances in C-N Bond Formation
Authors: Sofi Firdoos Ahmad , Bharatam Prasad V.
Published: September 2020

C-N bond formation is a particularly important step in the generation of many
biologically relevant heterocyclic molecules. Several methods have been reported for this
purpose over the past few decades. Well-known named reactions like Ullmann-Goldberg
coupling, Buchwald-Hartwig coupling and Chan-Lam coupling are associated with the C-N
bond formation reactions. Several reviews covering this topic have already been published.
However, no comprehensive review covering the synthesis of drugs/ lead compounds using
the C-N bond formation reactions was reported. In this review, we cover many modern
methods of the C-N bond formation reactions, with special emphasis on metal-free and
green chemistry methods. We also report specific strategies adopted for the synthesis of
drugs, which involve the C-N bond formation reactions. Examples include anti-cancer,
antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-histaminic, antibiotics, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic,
antiepileptic and anti-diabetic agents. Many recently developed lead compounds generated using the C-N bond
formation reactions are also covered in this review. Examples include MAP kinase inhibitors, TRKs inhibitors,
Polo-like Kinase inhibitors and MPS1 inhibitors.
Image-guided Cryotherapy for Musculoskeletal Tumors
Authors: Scandiffio Rossella , Bozzi Elena , Ezeldin Mohamed , Capanna Rodolfo , Ceccoli Matteo , Colangeli Simone , Donati Davide M. , Colangeli Marco
Published: September 2020

Background:

This article represents a review of the use of image-guided cryotherapy in the treatment of musculoskeletal tumor lesions. Cryotherapy is able to induce a lethal effect on cancer cells through direct and indirect mechanisms. In this manuscript, we combined our experience with that of other authors who have published on this topic in order to provide indications on when to use cryotherapy in musculoskeletal oncology.

Discussion:

Image-Guided percutaneous cryotherapy is a therapeutic method now widely accepted in the treatment of patients with musculoskeletal tumors. It can be used both for palliative treatments of metastatic bone lesions and for the curative treatment of benign bone tumors, such as osteoid osteoma or osteoblastoma. In the treatment of bone metastases, cryotherapy plays a major role in alleviating or resolving disease-related pain, but it has also been demonstrated that it can have a role in local disease control. In recent years, the use of cryotherapy has also expanded for the treatment of both benign and malignant soft tissue tumors.

Conclusion:

Percutaneous cryotherapy can be considered a safe and effective technique in the treatment of benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumors. Cryotherapy can be considered the first option in benign tumor lesions, such as osteoid osteoma, and a valid alternative to radiofrequency ablation. In the treatment of painful bone metastases, it must be considered secondarily to other standard treatments (radiotherapy, bisphosphonate therapy, and chemotherapy) when they are no longer effective in controlling the disease or when they cannot be repeated (for example, radiotherapy).
Withdrawal Notice: Immobilization of Hemoglobin onto Nanomesoporous MCM-41 and Its Catalytic Performance
Authors: Zhai Qing-Zhou , Wang Qing-Shuang
Published: September 2020

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the authors and editor of the journal Micro and Nanosystems.

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