bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A deficiency of Dec2 triggers periodontal inflammation and pyroptosis
Authors: Oka Shunichi , Li Xiaoyan , Sato Fuyuki , Zhang Fengzhu , Tewari Nitesh , Kim Il‐Shin , Zhong Liangjun , Hamada Nobushiro , Makishima Makoto , Liu Yi , Bhawal Ujjal K. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesPeriodontal pathogens initiate various diseases and induce inflammatory host responses. The activation of inflammasomes triggers caspase‐1 and interleukin (IL)‐1β‐mediated pyroptosis via gasdermin D (GSDMD). Differentiated embryo chondrocyte 2 (Dec2) is a transcription repressor that controls the expression of genes involved in innate immune and inflammatory responses. However, the effects of Dec2 on inflammasome‐induced pyroptosis in periodontal tissues remain elusive. This study aimed to characterize the activation of Dec2 inflammasomes that contribute to P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced pyroptosis and its functional and regulatory importance in periodontal inflammation.Materials and MethodsHuman gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPDLFs) were stimulated with P. gingivalis LPS in vitro. An experimental periodontitis mouse model (wild‐type (WT) and Dec2KO) was established to profile periodontal pyroptosis.ResultsThe results demonstrate that P. gingivalis LPS activates caspase‐1, caspase‐11, and NF‐κB in HGFs and in HPDLFs. siRNA knockdown of Dec2 stimulated the induction and further upregulated LPS‐induced pyroptosis in HGFs and HPDLFs, resulting in the release of IL‐1β. Further, a deficiency of Dec2 alleviated periodontal pyroptosis via the transcriptional induction of GSDMD. In addition, P. gingivalis‐induced IL‐1β expression and Dec2‐deficient mice subsequently increased the inflammatory effect of P. gingivalis in HGFs and in HPDLFs, confirming the importance of Dec2 in the activation of inflammasomes and the regulation of pyroptosis.ConclusionOur results demonstrate that Dec2 alleviates periodontal pyroptosis by regulating the expression of NF‐κB, caspase‐1 and GSDMD, suggesting that Dec2 is a crucial component of inflammasome activation and subsequent pyroptosis.
Chalcone T4, a novel chalconic compound, inhibits inflammatory bone resorption in vivo and suppresses osteoclastogenesis in vitro
Authors: Fernandes Natalie Aparecida Rodrigues , Camilli Angelo Constantino , Maldonado Laura Andrea Gonzalez , Pacheco Cindy Grace Pérez , Silva Amanda Favoreto , Molon Rafael Scaf , Spolidorio Luiz Carlos , Ribeiro de Assis Letícia , Regasini Luis Octavio , Rossa Junior Carlos , Guimarães‐Stabili Morgana Rodrigues 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the effect of a novel synthetic chalcone, Chalcone T4, on a murine model of periodontitis and on RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis in vitro.BackgroundChalcones are natural compounds with anti‐inflammatory properties, and its synthetic analogs with enhanced biological effects have potential as therapeutic agents. Periodontitis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the periodontium and alveolar bone resorption. Safe and effective anti‐inflammatory agents can have an important additive effect in the treatment in this disease.MethodsPeriodontitis was induced via the installation of a ligature around the first molar. Rats (n = 32) received Chalcone T4 (5 and 50 mg/kg) or distilled water by gavage daily for 15 days. Outcomes assessed were bone resorption (μCT), TNF‐α production (ELISA), cellular infiltrate, and collagen content (stereometric analysis, CD45+ cells by immunohistochemistry), and activation of NFATc1 and NF‐kB (immunohistochemistry). In vitro, RAW 264.7 were treated with Chalcone T4 and stimulated with RANKL for assessment of osteoclast differentiation (actin ring staining) and activity (pit assay).ResultsChalcone T4 significantly reduced periodontitis‐associated bone resorption, as well as the cellular infiltrate, while increasing the collagen content. Production of TNF‐α, infiltration of CD45‐positive cells, and NF‐kB activation were markedly reduced. In vitro, chalcone T4 inhibited both osteoclast differentiation and activity.ConclusionChalcone T4 significantly inhibited alveolar bone resorption and inflammation in vivo and RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis in vitro, suggesting a therapeutic role for this compound in the treatment of periodontitis.
Potential biomarkers reflecting inflammation in patients with severe periodontitis: Fractalkine (CX3CL1) and its receptor (CX3CR1)
Authors: Balci Nur , Cekici Ali , Kurgan Şivge , Sahinkaya Selin , Serdar Muhittin A. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine differences in GCF and serum levels of fractalkine/CX3CL1 and its receptor/ CX3CR1 between the patients with stage III/grade B periodontitis and periodontally healthy subjects.BackgroundFractalkine (CX3CL1), the only member of CX3C chemokine family, is involved in the pathogenesis of several systemic inflammatory diseases’ disorders including rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, tonsillitis, and diabetes mellitus. It has critical functions in inflammatory cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation.Methods20 stage III/grade B periodontitis (P) and 20 healthy individuals (control; C) were included in this clinical study (all never smokers and systemically healthy). Clinical periodontal parameters were measured. Serum and GCF levels of CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL‐1β were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and reported as total amounts and concentration.ResultsThe GCF concentrations and also total amount of CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL‐1β were statistically significantly higher in the patients with periodontitis compared with control group (P < 0.05). CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL‐1β levels in the GCF were significantly and positively correlated with all the clinical periodontal parameters (PI, PPD, BOP, and CAL; P < 0.01, P < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between IL‐1β, CX3CL1, and CX3CR1 concentrations in the GCF (respectively; r = 0.838 and r = 0.874, P < 0.01).ConclusionFractalkine and its receptor may play role in mechanisms through the regulation of inflammation or on the pathogenesis of periodontal disease.
Nationwide treatment and outcomes of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: van Keulen Anne‐Marleen , Franssen Stijn , van der Geest Lydia G. , de Boer Marieke T. , Coenraad Minneke , van Driel Lydi M. J. W. , Erdmann Joris I. , Haj Mohammad Nadia , Heij Lara , Klümpen Heinz‐Josef , Tjwa Eric , Valkenburg‐van Iersel Liselot , Verheij Joanne , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Olthof Pim B. ,   the Dutch Hepatocellular & Cholangiocarcinoma Group (DHCG)
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundPerihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) is a rare tumour that requires complex multidisciplinary management. All known data are almost exclusively derived from expert centres. This study aimed to analyse the outcomes of patients with pCCA in a nationwide cohort.MethodsData on all patients diagnosed with pCCA in the Netherlands between 2010 and 2018 were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Data included type of hospital of diagnosis and the received treatment. Outcomes included the type of treatment and overall survival.ResultsA total of 2031 patients were included and the median overall survival for the overall cohort was 5.2 (95% CI 4.7‐5.7) months. Three‐hundred‐ten (15%) patients underwent surgical resection, 271 (13%) underwent palliative systemic treatment, 21 (1%) palliative local anti‐cancer treatment and 1429 (70%) underwent best supportive care. These treatments resulted in a median overall survival of 29.6 (95% CI 25.2‐34.0), 12.2 (95% CI 11.0‐13.3), 14.5 (95%CI 8.2‐20.8) and 2.9 (95% CI 2.6‐3.2) months respectively. Resection rate was 13% in patients who were diagnosed in non‐academic and 32% in academic centres (P < .001), which resulted in a survival difference in favour of academic centres. Median overall survival was 9.7 (95% CI 7.7‐11.7) months in academic centres compared to 4.9 (95% CI 4.3‐5.4) months in non‐academic centres (P < .001).ConclusionsIn patients with pCCA, resection rate and overall survival were higher for patients who were diagnosed in academic centres. These results show population‐based outcomes of pCCA and highlight the importance of regional collaboration in the treatment of these patients.
Street‐level bureaucrats as policy entrepreneurs: Action strategies for flexible community governance in China
Authors: Zhang Liwei , Zhao Ji , Dong Weiwei 
Published: February 2021

AbstractStreet‐level bureaucrats (SLBs) can act as policy entrepreneurs to cope with the dilemmas in policy implementation. However, there is insufficient knowledge about whether the strategies adopted by them that SLBs in the role of policy entrepreneurs are institution sensitive. In addition, there is insufficient knowledge regarding the elements that impel and support such entrepreneurial actions. Based on China's community governance, this article attempts to clarify the strategies employed by SLBs to that result in their becoming policy entrepreneurs. It was observed that the Chinese SLBs primarily employed three strategies to act as policy entrepreneurs, which shows that different institutional contexts may shape the various strategies. This article indicates that the opportunity structure of the institution, in this case, the Chinese bureaucracy, enables SLBs to act entrepreneurially and the success of these strategies is also dependent on the SLBs' accountability and communication skills.
Effect of immunosuppression maintenance in solid organ transplant recipients with COVID‐19: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Karruli Arta , Spiezia Serenella , Boccia Filomena , Gagliardi Massimo , Patauner Fabian , Salemme Anna , Maiello Ciro , Zampino Rosa , Durante‐Mangoni Emanuele 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this study was to assess the effect of continuing immune suppressive therapy in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).MethodsSystematic review and meta‐analysis of data on 202 SOTR with COVID‐19, published as case reports or case series. We extracted clinical, hemato‐chemical, imaging, treatment, and outcome data.ResultsMost patients were kidney recipients (61.9%), males (68.8%), with median age of 57 years. The majority was on tacrolimus (73.5%) and mycophenolate (65.8%). Mortality was 18.8%, but an equal proportion was still hospitalized at last follow up. Immune suppressive therapy was withheld in 77.2% of patients, either partially or completely. Tacrolimus was continued in 50%. One third of survivors that continued immunosuppressants were on dual therapy plus steroids. None of those who continued immunosuppressants developed critical COVID‐19 disease. Age (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1‐1.11,P = .001) and lopinavir/ritonavir use (OR 3.3, 95%CI 1.2‐8.5,P = .013) were independent predictors of mortality while immunosuppression maintenance (OR 0.067, 95% CI 0.008‐0.558,P = .012) and tacrolimus continuation (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1‐0.7,P = .013) were independent predictors of survival.ConclusionsOur data suggest that maintaining immune suppression might be safe in SOTR with moderate and severe COVID‐19. Specifically, receiving tacrolimus could be beneficial for COVID‐19 SOTR. Because of the quality of the available evidence, no definitive guidance on how to manage SOTR with COVID‐19 can be derived from our data.
INVESTIGATION ON DOWNSTREAM PROCESSING OF INDUSTRIAL SCALE OF FLEXIRUBIN PRODUCTION USING SUPERPRO DESIGNER
Authors: Arriafdi Muhammad Zainuddin , Sani Mohd Helmi , Ahmad Wan Azlina , Zainal Alam Muhd Nazrul Hisham 
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work is to utilize a process simulator SuperPro Designer v5.5 (Intelligent, NJ, USA) for investigation on the most optimum scenario for the recovery of flexirubin pigment that was produced from a fermentation process using Chryseobacterium artocarpi strain. Process flow sheeting was based on the production of 300 kg per annum of flexirubin. Production phase at 1000 L bioreactor (including steps for the inoculum development) and different scenarios/routes for recovery of flexirubin were considered. SuperPro designer process simulator allowed for the computation of overall operating cost and capital cost under various operating parameters. Results from simulation shows that all proposed downstream processing routes is capable of achieving a high degree of flexirubin recovery yield i.e. at least 94% (or greater). Operating cost was relatively low as the overall quantity of flexirubin was rather small. Capital cost for equipment purchasing however highly depending on the selection of unit procedures for recovery of flexirubin. Centrifugation unit accelerated the separation processes but it is costly compared to the dead-end filtration unit. The latter was found to be the bottleneck for the optimization step where high yield of flexirubin can be warranted at reduced capital cost by at least 40%.
Optimization and finite element analysis of an in-wheel permanent magnet motor
Authors: Zaaraoui Lassaad , Mansouri Ali 
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, artificial intelligence techniques have become widely used in electrical machines optimization and design. In this attempt, different methods have been proposed. The present work is devoted to the electromagnetic analysis and design of an in-wheel radial flux outer rotor surface mounted permanent magnet motor (SMPM) for electric vehicle application. Two based-Swarm Particle Optimization (PSO) techniques, namely, the improved PSO multi-Objective optimization and the Speed-constrained Multi-objective PSO Optimization, are applied. The main idea of the current optimization procedure is to determine the optimal machine sizing parameters providing the maximum of efficiency with the minimum of weight. To reach this goal, two objective functions are employed the efficiency maximization and the weight minimization. A preliminary analytical model describing the magnetic and electrical machine features was presented. In order to find the optimum design, the optimization results are discussed and analyzed. In addition, the electromagnetic performances of the found optimum design were studied by means of finite element analysis (FEA) and compared with those obtained by the optimization procedure.
Postural Changes on Heart Rate Variability among Older Population: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Chuangchai Warawoot , Pothisiri Wiraporn 
Published: February 2021

Objective. This study aims to investigate an association between body postures and autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses through analysis of short-term heart rate variability (HRV) data obtained through electrocardiography. Methods. Forty older individuals were recruited to form the sample. HRV measurements were taken in three positions—sitting, supine, and standing—and compared. Results. Results demonstrated statistically significant differences in the HRV parameters used to examine the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), specifically in the measurements obtained from the sitting position and the supine position (

P

< 0.001 for PNS and

P

= 0.011 for SNS). The differences in these parameters were, however, negligible between the sitting and the standing positions. Moreover, the ANS responses obtained in the sitting position were strongly and positively correlated with those in the standing position (r = 0.854 for PNS and r = 0.794 for SNS). These results suggested that the PNS and SNS parameters obtained while sitting were likely to be affected by orthostatic hypotension in much the same way as those in the standing position, as compared to the supine position. Conclusions. As such, sitting may not be the best position for older individuals in the assessment of their autonomic responses, whereas the supine position is recommended as the baseline posture in the old-age population. These findings are useful for future research in clinical settings that require accuracy in the ANS responses as determined by the HRV measurements.
Postoperative Ratio of C-Reactive Protein to Albumin as a Predictive Marker in Patients with Crohn’s Disease Undergoing Bowel Resection
Authors: Zhao Hangfen , Liu Huaying , Qi Weilin , Liu Wei , Ye Lingna , Cao Qian , Ge Xiaolong , Zhou Wei , Wang Xianfa 
Published: February 2021

Background. The ratio of C-reactive protein (CRP) to albumin (CAR) has a significant correlation with postoperative complications and acts as a predictor in patients with pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer. However, whether the CAR can be used to predict complications in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients after surgery has not yet been reported. Methods. A total of 534 CD patients undergoing surgery between 2016 and 2020 were enrolled. The risk factors of postoperative complications were assessed by univariate and multivariate analyses. The cutoff values and the accuracy of diagnosis for the CAR and postoperative CRP levels were examined with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results. The rate of postoperative complications was 32.2%. The postoperative CAR (OR 13.200; 95% CI 6.501-26.803;

P
<
0.001

) was a significant independent risk factor for complications. Compared with the CRP level on postoperative day 3, the CAR more accurately indicated postoperative complications in CD patients (AUC: 0.699 vs. 0.771; Youden index: 0.361 vs. 0.599). ROC curves showed that the cutoff value for the CAR was 3.25. Patients with a

CAR
≥
3.25

had more complications (

P
<
0.001

), a longer postoperative stay (

15.5
±
0.6

d vs.

9.0
±
0.2

d,

P
<
0.001

), and more surgical site infections (48.2% vs. 5.7%,

P
<
0.001

) than those with a

CAR
<
3.25

. Conclusions. Compared to the CRP level, the CAR can more accurately predict postoperative complications and can act as a predictive marker in CD patients after surgery.
Development of a New Device for Postoperative Self-Irrigation of the Maxillary and Frontal Sinus
Authors: Omani Mohammad Al , Crepy-Ameil Marie , Grinholtz-Haddad Julia , Zaer Saïd , Benkhatar Hakim 
Published: February 2021

Objectives: Nasal saline irrigation is the corner stone of postoperative care after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, intrasinus penetration of the saline solution can be challenging and may require difficult head position, particularly for the frontal sinus. Our aim was to evaluate a novel device for direct intrasinus self-irrigation, usable at home for both maxillary and frontal sinus. Methods: Thirty devices were implemented in 23 patients: in the maxillary sinus for 18 patients and in the frontal sinus for 5 patients. The device was removed after 7 days on average (5-10 days), and nasal saline irrigation was carried on with a squeeze bottle for 6 weeks. Retrospective evaluation of the device included: device-related complication, patient satisfaction, and ostial or middle turbinate synechiae at 3 months. Results: No device-related complication (obstruction, displacement, infection, bleeding) occurred. Twenty-one (91.3%) patients were satisfied with the device. Two patients required the help of a nurse for irrigation. No ostial of middle turbinate synechiae was visualized at 3 months. This new endonasal device enables direct intrasinus self-irrigation after FESS for CRS. Conclusion: This preliminary study showed that this device is safe and easy to use. However, further investigations are required to assess its potential role to reduce the risk of synechiae and revision surgery.
Patient-reported outcomes and digital literacy of patients treated in an oncology day hospital unit
Authors: del Rosario García Betel , Morales Barrios José Alberto , Viña Romero María M , Ramos Díaz Ruth , Nazco Casariego Gloria J , Jiménez Sosa Alejandro , Oramas Rodríguez Juana M , Gutiérrez Nicolás Fernando 
Published: February 2021

Introduction Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) use, via a computer registry, allows patients to report their symptoms enabling the detection of early signs of progression of the disease. For such a record, the patient needs to show certain skills in new technologies use. The present study aimed to analyse the perception and degree of digital literacy of patients undergoing oncological treatment in an Oncology Day Hospital (ODH). Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed, where the degree of literacy of patients attending antineoplastic treatment at the ODH was examined by means of an anonymous survey. Results A total of 122 patients have been included in the study. The proportion of subjects who use the electronic mail (TM) and the Internet on a daily basis was 45.1% and 70.5%, respectively, and up to 77.9% from the subjects considered that the use of digital 2.0 strategies could help improve communication between healthcare professional and patient. The TM was determined by the age, educational level and employment status of the individual. Furthermore, the age of the patients conditioned their perception of the usefulness of the web 2.0 tools (T2.0). Conclusion This study allowed us to establish a target patient profile to conduct the efficient monitoring of cancer progression by PROs. The results have shown that approximately 60% of the patients in our population could be potential candidates to receive PROs-based health care. This approach enables earlier detection of symptoms and signs of progression and consequently, improves health outcomes for cancer patients.
Ammonia level as a proxy of asparaginase inactivation in children: A strategy for classification of infusion reactions
Authors: Santos Amanda C , Land Marcelo G P , Lima Elisangela C 
Published: February 2021

Introduction Allergic hypersensitivity reactions related to enzyme asparaginase may occur during intravenous infusion of drugs and other adverse reactions (non-allergic hypersensitivity and hyperammonemia), which do not require discontinuation of therapy as the first case. It makes differential diagnoses between infusion reactions essential to assure the team regarding the right decision to make after the adverse event. This study evaluated a pharmacovigilance strategy of differentiating infusion reactions to asparaginase in pediatric patients, based on the measurement of serum ammonia and the classification of the reactions by clinical symptoms and severity. Methodology We included children, diagnosed with ALL, and treated with native Escherichia coli asparaginase in a university hospital. The professional team monitored and evaluated all asparaginase infusions for continuity of treatment (rechallenge), seeing the measurement of serum ammonia and classification of reactions for type and severity grade. Data from this monitoring was collected retrospectively. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare the ratios between serum ammonia concentration posterior and before asparaginase infusion. Results 245 infusions in 32 patients were monitored, and 19 reactions were observed in 17 children (53%). Three children have hyperammonemia and continue their treatment. The variation of the serum ammonia levels before and after the infusion was statistically significant, comparing the groups with no reaction or hyperammonemia versus the group with the hypersensitivity reaction. Conclusion The pharmacovigilance strategy applied in the hospital investigated was a useful and inexpensive tool that supported clinical decision-making and enabled the maintenance of asparaginase therapy for three (9,4%) patients followed up.