bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Construction of a new T7 promoter compatible Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 strain for recombinant production of heme-dependent proteins
Authors: Fiege Kerstin , Frankenberg-Dinkel Nicole 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Heme proteins and heme-derived molecules are essential in numerous cellular processes. Research into their in vitro functionality requires the production of large amounts of protein. Unfortunately, high yield expression is hampered by the lack of E. coli strains naturally capable of taking up heme from the medium. We recently reported the use of the probiotic E. coli strain Nissle 1917 (EcN) to sufficiently produce heme containing proteins, as it encodes the outer membrane heme receptor, ChuA, which allows for natural uptake of heme. The EcN strain however lacks the gene for T7 RNA polymerase, which is necessary for the expression of genes under the control of the T7-promotor, widely used in expression vectors like the pET or Duet series.Results: A new T7-promoter compatible EcN strain was constructed by integrating the gene for T7-RNA polymerase under the control of a lacUV5 promoter into the malEFG operon of EcN. Test expressions of genes via T7 promoter-based vectors in the new EcN(T7) strain were successful. Expression in EcN(T7) resulted in the efficient production of recombinant heme proteins in which the heme cofactor was incorporated during protein production. In addition, the new EcN(T7) strain can be used to co-express genes for the production of heme-derived molecules like biliverdin or other linear tetrapyrroles. We demonstrate the successful recombinant production of the phytochromes BphP, from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Cph1, from Synechocystis sp. PCC6803, loaded with their linear tetrapyrrole cofactors, biliverdin and phycocyanobilin, respectively. Conclusion: We present a new E. coli strain for efficient production of heme proteins and heme-derived molecules using T7-promoter based expression vectors. The new EcN(T7) strain enables the use of a broader spectrum of expression vectors, as well as the co-expression of genes using the Duet expression vectors, for expressing heme containing proteins. By utilizing E. coli strains EcN and EcN(T7), capable of being fed heme, the rate limiting step of heme biosynthesis in E. coli is eliminated, thereby permitting higher heme saturation of heme proteins and also higher yields of heme-derived molecules.
Pilot Trial of High-dose vitamin C in critically ill COVID-19 patients
Authors: Zhang Jing , Rao Xin , Li Yiming , Zhu Yuan , Liu Fang , Guo Guangling , Luo Guoshi , Meng Zhongji , Backer Daniel De , Xiang Hui , Peng Zhi-Yong 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: No specific medication has been proven effective for the treatment of patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Here, we tested whether high-dose vitamin C infusion was effective for severe COVID-19.Methods: This randomized, controlled, clinical trial was performed at 3 hospitals in Hubei, China. Patients with confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in the ICU were randomly assigned in as 1:1 ratio to either the high-dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) or the placebo. HDIVC group received 12 g of vitamin C/50 ml every 12 hours for 7 days at a rate of 12 ml/hour, and the placebo group received bacteriostatic water for injection in the same way. The primary outcome was invasive mechanical ventilation-free days in 28 days(IMVFD28). Secondary outcomes were 28-day mortality, organ failure, and inflammation progression.Results: Only fifty-six critical COVID-19 patients were ultimately recruited due to the early control of the outbreak. There was no difference in IMVFD28 between two groups. During the 7-day treatment period, patients in the HDIVC group had a steady rise in the PaO2/FiO2 (day 7: 229 vs. 151 mmHg, 95% CI 33 to 122, P=0.01). Patients with SOFA scores ≥3 in the HDIVC group exhibited a trend of reduction in 28-day mortality (P=0.06) in univariate survival analysis. IL-6 in the HDIVC) group was lower than that in the placebo group (19.42 vs. 158.00; 95% CI -301.72 to -29.79; P=0.04) on day 7. Conclusion: This pilot trial showed that HDIVC might show a potential signal of benefit for critically ill patients with COVID-19, improving oxygenation even though it failed to improve IMVFD28. Clinicaltrial.gov identifer and date: NCT04264533. Registered February 14 2020.
Clinical differences between toric intraocular lens (IOL) and monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation when myopia is determined as target refraction
Authors: Shin Da young , Hwang Ho Sik , Kim Hyun Seung , Kim Man Soo , Kim Eun Chul 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The aim of this study is to analyze and compare the clinical results of toric intraocular lens (IOL) and monofocal IOL implantation when the target refraction value is determined -3 diopter (D) in cataract patients with corneal astigmatism >1.5 diopters (D).Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review for patients with corneal astigmatism >1.5D who underwent cataract surgery and their target refraction is determined -3D. 100 eyes (100 patients; monofocal IOL, 60; toric IOL, 40) were enrolled in the current study. Near and distant uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), corrected VA, spherical equivalent and refractive, corneal astigmatism were evaluated before and after surgery.Results: The near UCVA of the toric IOL group (0.26±0.33) after cataract surgery was significantly better than that of the monofocal IOL group (0.48±0.32) (p=0.030). The distant UCVA of the toric IOL group (0.38 ± 0.14) was also significantly better than that of the monofocal IOL group (0.55 ± 0.22) (p = 0.026). There were no significant intergroup differences in postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (p = 0.710) and mean spherical equivalent (p = 0.465). In the toric IOL group, postoperative refractive astigmatism was -0.80 ± 0.46D and postoperative corneal astigmatism was -1.50 ± 0.62D, whereas the corresponding values in the monofocal IOL group were -1.65 ± 0.77D and -1.45 ± 0.64D; residual refractive astigmatism was significantly lower with toric IOL implantation compared with monofocal IOL implantation (p = 0.001). There were no postoperative complications and no adverse events were reported.Conclusions: When myopic refraction such as -3D was determined as the target power in patients with corneal astigmatism, toric IOL implantation led to excellent improvement in both near and distant UCVA.
A Load Sharing Principle in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction. Communication and Collaboration Among Plastic &amp; Reconstructive Surgeons, Oncologic Surgeons, and General Surgeons.
Authors: Dickinson Brian P , Vu Monica , Vu-Huynh Nikkie , Shadid Alexander , Harris Todd S , Selby Robert , Perl Larry , Mori Kristina , Wang Peter , Beanes Steven , Mendivil Alberto , Hurwitz Michael 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Abdominal wall reconstruction of ventral hernias can be challenging. Patients have undergone successful treatment of cancer or other intra-abdominal processes and have worked hard to get back to a “normal” life. Successful repair of abdominal wall hernias can be difficult as many comorbidities persist. Previous radiation, ongoing smoking, or overall protein malnutrition may affect wound healing and overall outcome. Surgical teams need to communicate to maximize repair success and decrease recurrence. Purpose: To create a systematic approach from our current method of abdominal wall reconstruction that facilitates communication between general surgeons and plastic and reconstructive surgeons for optimizing hernia repair outcomes. Methods: A retrospective chart review was done on patients who underwent abdominal wall reconstruction of ventral hernias and recurrent hernias with component separation and placement of strattice acellular dermal matrix or synthetic mesh over a 10 year period. Pre-op imaging consisted of an abdominal/pelvic CT-scan. A surgical flight plan was created to determine a plane of Strattice insertion and abdominal wall exposure. Pre/post-operative CT-scans were compared as well as before and after photographs. Patient satisfaction was assessed subjectively in follow-up appointments. Results: The most commonly encountered clinical scenarios were placed into a pictorial essay and a step by step approach to abdominal wall reconstruction was then created. Strattice or synthetic mesh were placed using a “load-sharing” principle and restoration of a dynamic abdominal wall was associated with high patient satisfaction, a more functional repair, and a lower incidence of recurrence. Conclusions: Successful repair of primary and recurrent abdominal wall hernias requires communication between general surgeons and plastic & reconstructive surgeons. Incision placement is important for adequate exposure and the ability to place transfascial sutures. T-junction skin breakdown and seroma formation can be minimized by maintaining blood supply and minimizing dead space. High protein nutritional stores are important for expeditious healing.
Arabic Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire in a Saudi Population
Authors: Malaekah Haifaa , Almedbal Haifaa Saud , Almuwallad Sameerah , asiri Zahra Al , Albadrani Alhanouf , Abduallah Hussam 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Introduction and hypothesis: The aims of the study were the translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of self-administered Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire (APFQ) on a Saudi population. Methods: The translation and cultural adaptation was performed in 854 women over 18 and not pregnant who agreed to answer the Arabic version of the questionnaire. The content/face validity, internal consistency (reliability), and construct validity (factor analysis) were assessed. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 24.0 statistical software.Results: The Cronbach’s alpha results were above 0.8 for the questionnaire’s overall reliability (bladder function: 0.877, bowel function: 0.834, prolapse symptoms: 0.784, sexual function: 0.762) showing adequate internal consistency reliability and high statistical significance. A statistically significant correlation was observed among the 40 items of the questionnaire. The issue of multicollinearity was not found, and the determinant of the correlation matrix was 0.001. A value of >0.5 was achieved when the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett’s tests measured 0.806 and the Bartlett’s test of sphericity was statistically significant χ2 (780)=4150.46 (P<0.001). The values of loading indicate that all 4 factors (bladder function, bowel function, prolapse symptoms, sexual function) contributed to each of their items.Conclusions: This study provides the Arabic version of the self-administered APFQ as a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating symptom severity and impact of pelvic floor dysfunction on the quality of life (QOL) of Arabic women. It also will enable the researchers from Arab countries to use this instrument to assess pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) prevalence in their settings.
Small-Molecule Antagonist of VLA-4 (GW559090) Attenuated Neuro-Inflammation by Targeting Th17 Cell Trafficking across the Blood-Retinal Barrier in Experimental Autoimmune Uveitis
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsing , Eskandarpour Malihe , Zhang Xiaozhe , Galatowicz Grazyna , John Greenwood , Lightman Sue , Calder Virginia 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The integrin VLA-4 (α4β1) plays an important role in leukocyte trafficking. This study investigated the efficacy of a novel topical α4β1 integrin inhibitor (GW559090, GW) in a mouse model for non-infectious posterior uveitis (experimental autoimmune uveitis; EAU) and its effect on intraocular leukocyte subsets.Methods: Mice (female; B10.RIII or C57Bl/6; aged 6-8 weeks) were immunized with specific interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP) peptides to induce EAU. Topically administered GW (3, 10, and 30 mg/ml) were given twice daily either therapeutically once disease was evident, or prophylactically, and compared with vehicle-treated (Veh) and 0.1% dexamethasone-treated (Dex) controls. Mice were sacrificed at peak disease. The retinal T cell subsets were investigated by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. The immune cells within the retina, blood and draining lymph nodes (dLNs) were phenotyped by flow cytometry. The effect of GW559090 on non-adherent, adherent and migrated CD4+ T cell subsets across a central nervous system (CNS) endothelium was further assayed in vitro and quantitated by flow cytometry.Results: There was a significant reduction in clinical and histological scores in GW10 and Dex treated groups as compared to controls either administered therapeutically or prophylactically. There were fewer CD45+ leukocytes infiltrating the retinae and vitreous fluids in the treated GW10 group (P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry data identified decreased levels of retinal Th17 cells (P ≤ 0.001) in the GW10 treated eyes, leaving systemic T cell subsets unaffected. In addition, fewer Ly6C+ inflammatory monocyte/macrophages (P = 0.002) and dendritic cells (P = 0.017) crossed the BRB following GW10 treatment. In vitro migration assays confirmed that Th17 cells were selectively suppressed by GW559090 by adhering to endothelial monolayers.Conclusions: This α4β1 integrin inhibitor may exert a modulatory effect in EAU progression by selectively blocking Th17 cell migration across the blood-retinal barrier without affecting systemic CD4+ T cell subsets. Local α4β1 integrin-directed inhibition could be clinically relevant in treating a Th17-dominant form of uveitis.
Dietary Patterns and Their Associations With Overweight/Obesity Among Preschool Children in Dongcheng District of Beijing: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Min Kaiyuan , WANG Jing , LIAO Wei , Astell-Burt Thomas , FENG Xiaoqi , CAI Shuya , LIU Yang , ZHANG Peiwen , SU Fenghua , YANG Kexin , SUN Liang , ZHANG Juan , WANG Lianjun , LIN Gang , JIANG Yu 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundFew studies investigated associations between dietary patterns and overweight/obesity among Chinese preschool children. Thus, the study aimed to explore dietary patterns among preschool children in the Dongcheng District of Beijing, and their associations with overweight/obesity.MethodsWith a stratified proportionate cluster sampling, the study included 3,373 pairs of preschool children and their guardians. Children’s weight and height were measured by school nurses, and their food and beverage consumption frequencies were reported by guardians via a food frequency questionnaire. Children’s age, gender, physical activity time, and sedentary time, as well as their parents’ highest level of educational attainment, occupation, weight, and height were also collected. Dietary patterns were identified through an exploratory factor analysis. Among these identified dietary patterns, the one with the largest factor score was defined as the predominant dietary pattern for each child. Associations between predominant dietary patterns and overweight/obesity were tested by two-level random-intercept logistic models with cluster-robust standard errors.ResultsFour dietary patterns, i.e., a “Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and snack” pattern, a “Chinese traditional” pattern, a “Health conscious” pattern, and a “Snack” pattern, were identified. Among the children, 21.02% (95% CI: 19.68% to 22.43%) were predominated by the “SSB and snack” pattern, 27.78% (95% CI: 26.29% to 29.32%) by the “Chinese traditional” pattern, 24.90% (95% CI: 23.47% to 26.39%) by the “Health conscious” pattern, and 26.30% (95% CI: 24.84% to 27.81%) by the “Snack” pattern. After controlling for potential confounders, the “SSB and snack” pattern characterized by fresh fruit/vegetable juice, flavored milk drinks, carbonated drinks, flavored fruit/vegetable drinks, tea drinks, plant-protein drinks, puffed foods, fried foods, and Western fast foods was associated with a higher risk of overweight/obesity (OR: 1.61, 95% CI:1.09 to 2.38), compared with the “Chinese traditional” pattern.ConclusionsA preference for foods high in energy density but low in nutritional value was prevalent among preschool children in the Dongchen District of Beijing. Comprehensive measures to simultaneously reduce consumption of SSBs and unhealthy snacks among preschool children should be taken urgently to fight against rising childhood obesity in China, particularly in metropolises.
Structure of a single palladium nanoparticle and its dynamics during the hydride phase transformation
Authors: Suzana Ana , Wu Longlong , Assefa Tadesse , Williams Benjamin , Harder Ross , Cha Wonsuk , Kuo Chun-Hong , Tsung Chia-Kuang , Robinson Ian 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Palladium absorbs large volumetric quantities of hydrogen at room temperature and ambient pressure, making the Pd-H system a promising candidate for hydrogen storage. Here, we use Bragg coherent diffraction imaging to map the strain associated with defects in three dimensions before and during the hydride phase transformation of an individual octahedral palladium nanoparticle, synthesized by using the seed-mediated approach. The displacement distribution imaging unveils the location of the seed nanoparticle in the final nanocrystal. By comparing our experimental results with a finite-element model, we verify that the seed nanoparticle causes a characteristic displacement distribution of the larger nanocrystal. During the hydrogen exposure, the hydride phase is predominantly formed on one tip of the octahedra, where there is a high number of lower coordinated Pd atoms. Our experimental and theoretical results provide an unambiguous method for future structure optimization of seed-mediated nanoparticles growth and in the design of palladium-based hydrogen storage systems.
Three Dimensional Movement Analysis of Maxillary Impacted Canine Using TADs: A Pilot Study
Authors: Migliorati Marco , Sinfonico Giordana , Drago Sara , Dalessandri Domenico , Isola Gaetano , Cevidanes Lucia , Silvestrini-Biavati Armando 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe aim of the present study was to compare two different anchorage systems efficiency to disinclude impacted maxillary canines using as evaluation tool superimposed Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCTs).MethodsThe study has been conducted with two parallel groups with an allocation ratio of 1:1. Group test received treatment using as anchorage a miniscrew, control group was treated using an anchorage unit a trans palatal arch (TPA). Both groups received a calibrated traction force of 50 grams. CBCT before treatment and 3 months after traction were superimposed and canine tip and root movement were evaluated in mm/month ratio. ResultsNo differences were observed between groups for apex displacement, tip displacement and observation timespan. 22 patients (12 female, 10 male, mean age:13.4 years) undergoing orthodontic treatment for impacted maxillary canines were recruited for this study. No differences were observed between groups for apex displacement, tip displacement and observation timespanConclusionsThe present pilot study provided no evidence that indirect anchorage on miniscrews could make canine disimpaction faster than anchorage on a TPA. An apex root movement of 0.4-0.8mm per month was found, while average canine tip movement ranged between 1.08mm and 1.96mm per month.No miniscrews failures were observed.Trial RegistrationThe study reports the preliminary results of the randomized clinical trial registered at www. register.clinicaltrials.gov (registration number: NCT01717417)
“why Would I Use a Condom When I Want to Have a Child?” Men’s Unmet Needs Regarding Sexual and Reproductive Health Information in the Context of HIV in Zambia
Authors: Matenga Tulani Francis L. , Zulu Joseph Mumba , Nkwema Shanny , Shankalala Perfect , Hampanda Karen 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundAlthough health care providers are beginning to focus on men's roles as fathers and husbands, there is limited understanding of how men view their ability to promote sexual and reproductive health in families affected by HIV and their experiences with receiving education through antenatal care. This paper aims to explore men’s perceptions of the education they need regarding sexual and reproductive health within the family in the context of HIV. MethodsWe interviewed a convenient sample of 18 male partners of pregnant women living with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia. Atlas.ti was used to facilitate data management and content analysis.ResultsMen reported being the primary decision-makers regarding sexual and reproductive issues in the family; however, they admitted far-reaching unmet needs in terms of information on sexual and reproductive health in the context of HIV. Most men felt that antenatal care was not a conducive setting to fully educate men on sexual and reproductive health because it is a woman's space where their health concerns were generally neglected. There was a strong desire for more education that was specific to men’s sexual and reproductive health, especially because all the couples were affected by HIV. Men especially requested education on sexual preparedness, safe sex, the use of condoms in sero-concordant and sero-discordant relationships and general health information. Although men stated they were the main decision-makers regarding sexual and reproductive issues such as pregnancy, most men were not confident in their ability to promote sexual and reproductive health in the family because of limited knowledge in this area.ConclusionThere is need to change the environment and messaging of antenatal care, as well as offer relevant education opportunities outside health facility settings to empower men with essential information for meaningful involvement in sexual and reproductive health in the context of HIV.