bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The dynamics of circulating heparin-binding protein (HBP) - implications for its use as a biomarker
Authors: Fisher Jane , Kahn Fredrik , Wiebe Elena , Gustafsson Pontus , Kander Thomas , Mellhammar Lisa , Bentzer Peter , Linder Adam 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background Heparin Binding Protein (HBP) is a promising new biomarker for the development and severity of sepsis. To guide the use of HBP as a biomarker it is important to understand the factors that may lead to false positive or negative results. The mechanisms that could lead to falsely elevated HBP levels include inappropriate release and inadequate clearance of HBP by the responsible cells and organs. HBP is presumably released only by neutrophils and the organs responsible for its elimination are unknown. Therefore, in this study we aimed to determine whether non-neutrophil cells can be a source of HBP in the circulation and which organs are responsible for its removal.Results We measured HBP in two cohorts of neutropenic patients and found that 12% and 19% of patients in each cohort respectively had detectable HBP levels. In vitro, we found that three leukemia-derived monocytic cell lines and healthy CD14 + monocytes constitutively released detectable levels of HBP. Next we injected HBP intravenously in rats found that plasma levels of HBP decreased rapidly, with a distribution half-life below 10 minutes and an elimination half-life of 1–2 hours. We measured HBP levels in the liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, and urine using both ELISA and immunofluorescence quantitation and found that the majority of HBP was present in the liver and a small amount was present in the spleen. Immunofluorescence imaging indicated that HBP is associated mainly with hepatocytes in the liver and monocytes/macrophages in the spleen.Conclusions HBP can be found in some neutropenic patients. Other than neutrophils, malignant myeloid cells and monocytic cells may be an additional source of HBP. HBP disappears rapidly from the circulation and distributes primarily to liver hepatocytes and spleen monocytes/macrophages. The impact of hematologic malignancies and liver diseases on plasma HBP levels should be explored further in clinical studies.
Comparative Study of Flood Coincidence Risk in The Mainstream and Its Tributaries
Authors: Li Na , Guo Shenglian , Xiong Feng , Wang Jun 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The coincidence of floods in the mainstream and its tributaries may lead to a large flooding in the downstream confluence area, and the flood coincidence risk analysis is very important for flood prevention and disaster reduction. In this study, the multiple regression model was used to establish the functional relationship among flood magnitudes in the mainstream and its tributaries. The mixed von Mises distribution and Pearson Type III distribution were selected to fit the probability distribution of the annual maximum flood occurrence dates and magnitudes, respectively. The joint distributions of the annual maximum flood occurrence dates and magnitudes were established using copula function. Fuhe River in the Poyang Lake region was selected as a study case. The joint probability, co-occurrence probability and conditional probability of flood magnitudes were calculated and compared with the simulated results of the observed data. The results show that the selected marginal and joint distributions perform well in simulating the observed flood data. The coincidence probabilities of flood occurrence dates in the upper mainstream and its tributaries mainly occur from May to early July. Among the three coincidence probability calculation methods, the conditional probability is the most consistent with the flood coincidence risk in the mainstream and its tributaries, which is more reliable and rational in practice. The results reflect the actual flood coincidence situation in the Fuhe River basin and can provide technique support for flood control decision-making.
Stranded human and produced capital in a net-zero transition
Authors: Mercure Jean-Francois , Chester Daniel , Lynch Cormac , Jarvis Stephen , Jarvis Andrew 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The pace of the net-zero transition required to meet the Paris Agreement objectives puts the value of existing carbon-dependent capital at risk of premature depreciation.1–3 A policy debate has emerged over whether such substantial financial loss affects market valuation and stability.4–6 Here, we quantify the current value of existing global human and produced capital, sector by sector, and compare the rate at which it naturally depreciates with that at which it would be required to depreciate to achieve climate targets. Comparison allows us to determine the human and produced capital value at risk across the economy by sector. We find that stopping the production of carbon intensive capital and the training of carbon intensive occupations in 2020 allows a better than 50 percent chance to achieve a 2°C target. However, achieving net-zero in 2050 implies capital value at risk approaching 50 T$, three quarters of which is human capital. We conclude that intervention in both the financial and educational systems may be warranted in order to reduce these risks, where training a workforce for occupations that may soon cease to exist could be avoided.
Dietary Restriction Induces a Stable Metabolic Obesity Phenotype in Drosophila Melanogaster
Authors: Asiimwe Oscar Hilary , Sulaiman Sheu Oluwadare , Ochieng Juma John , Onanyang David , Osuwat Lawrence Obado , Ndinawe John Mark , Okpanachi Alfred Omachonu , Kasozi Keneth Iceland 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
ObjectiveChallenges associated with current nutritional models to induce obesity in Drosophila melanogaster created a rationale for this study. The objective of the study was to investigate biochemical changes associated with high-fat diet (HFD), high sucrose diet (HSD), and a protein-restricted diet (DR) to induce a healthy metabolic obesity state. Drosophila melanogaster were fed to four experimental diets: regular food (control), HFD, HSD, and DR, for four weeks. Peristaltic waves were measured on 3rd instar larvae, while negative geotaxis, body mass, catalase activity; and total triglycerides, sterol, and protein were measured in adult Drosophila melanogaster.ResultsDR produced a Drosophila melanogaster phenotype which had superior adaptive advantages than that generated from HFD and HSD. HFD was the best phenotype during larval stages; however, locomotory, body mass, triglyceride, sterol concentrations, and catalase activity were highest in the DR phenotype during adulthood. High catalase activity and high triglyceride content demonstrated a balanced and healthy metabolic obesity status than in other phenotypes in the adult stage. Evolutionary changes are responsible for the selective advantage of the DR phenotype over the HFD phenotype. Prospective studies to guide therapy and community behavior should place more emphasis on the DR phenotypes in Drosophila melanogaster.
Activity of the Mouse Notch ligand DLL1 is Sensitive to C-terminal Tagging in Vivo
Authors: Schuster-Gossler Karin , Boldt Karsten , Bornhorst Dorothee , Delany-Heiken Patricia , Ueffing Marius , Gossler Achim 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
ObjectiveThe mammalian Notch ligand DLL1 has essential functions during development. To visualise DLL1 in tissues, for sorting and enrichment of DLL1-expressing cells, and to efficiently purify DLL1 protein complexes we tagged DLL1 in mice with AcGFPHA or Strep/FLAG. ResultsWe generated constructs to express DLL1 that carried C-terminal in-frame an AcGFPHA tag flanked by loxP sites followed by a Strep/FLAG (SF) tag out of frame. Cre-mediated recombination replaced AcGFP-HA by SF. The AcGFPHAstopSF cassette was added to DLL1 for tests in cultured cells and introduced into endogenous DLL1 in mice by homologous recombination. Tagged DLL1 protein was detected by antibodies against GFP and HA or Flag, respectively, both in CHO cells and embryo lysates. In CHO cells the AcGFP protein fused to DLL1 was functional. In vivo AcGFP expression was below the level of detection by direct fluorescence. However, the SF tag allowed us to specifically purify DLL1 complexes from embryo lysates. Homozygous mice expressing AcGFPHA or SF-tagged DLL1 revealed a vertebral column phenotype reminiscent of disturbances in AP polarity during somitogenesis, a process most sensitive to reduced DLL1 function. Thus, even small C-terminal tags can impinge on sensitive developmental processes requiring DLL1 activity.
Health Status Perception of People Close to Retirement Age: Relationship with Mental Health and Healthy Habits
Authors: Monge-Martín Diana , Caballero-Martínez Fernando , Forjaz Maria João , Castillo Manuel J. , Rodríguez-Blázquez Carmen 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: The ageing of today's society intensifies the need for the correct and healthy ageing of the elderly, in order to ensure their overall well-being. Practical strategies are needed to acquire healthy habits at this stage of life. The aim of this study is to analyse the life habits of subjects close to retirement age and the factors that could influence these habits (gender, physical and mental health). Methods: A national (Spain) observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study, in which people close to retirement age are surveyed. The online survey included matters regarding socio-demographic, family, work, leisure, social participation and health indicators. Results: The study comprised of 1,700 participants (581 working; 714 retired), average age = 63 years (DT 5.7); 52% women. Most reported having a satisfactory social life (90%), living in pairs (74%), not smoking (80%), following a Mediterranean diet (73%) and taking medicines daily (70%). Disability (WHODAS-12) was higher in men (8.2 vs 6.5, p<0.001) although women showed more health problems and depression (mild-severe) (27% vs 17%, p<0.001), with a healthier diet and lower physical/work activity. The multivariate model showed a significant association of health status (EQ-VAS) with disability level, number of chronic diseases, sleep habits, exercise, diet, and alcohol consumption. When the level of depression was introduced, age and being a woman were also found to be related. In the subgroup of those retired or working (n=1295), retirees reported a better health status, associated with less disability, fewer chronic illnesses, lower depression, good eating and sleeping habits, and exercise. Conclusions: The results show that retirement does not necessarily mean worse health, but rather an opportunity in life to reinforce favourable health activities and correct those lifestyle factors that deteriorate it. This, together with the differences observed according to gender in the perception of clinical and psychological health, will allow for the design of strategies that promote healthy ageing.
Hydrogen Production From Water Under UV Radiation with Carbon Dioxide Mediation
Authors: Morawski Antoni , Kusiak-Nejman Ewelina , Pelech Iwona , Ćmielewska Katarzyna , Sibera Daniel , Staciwa Piotr , Wanag Agnieszka , Gano Marcin , Ekiert Ewa , Kapica-Kozar Joanna , Narkiewicz Urszula 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
A simple method of hydrogen production through the decomposition of water subjected to UV radiation is presented. Water contained dissolved sodium hydroxide and the solution was saturated with carbon dioxide gas. During saturation, the pH value dropped from about 11.5 to 7-8. The produced bicarbonate and carbonate ions acted as scavengers for hydroxyl radicals, preventing recombination of hydroxyl and hydrogen radicals, and giving priority to the formation of hydrogen gas.In the presented method, the production of hydrogen is combined with the utilization of carbon dioxide.
Antibody-Conjugated Magnetic Beads For Sperm Sexing By A Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotube Microfluidic Device
Authors: Phiphattanaphiphop Chalinee , Leksakul Komgrit , Wanta Thananut , Khamlor Trisadee , Phattanakun Rungrueang 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Bull production industries demand specific sexual bulls in response to different business productivity requirements. Therefore, sexual separation of sperm is essential for the livestock industry, increasing the demand for assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). A popular sexual separation method in ART is monoclonal antibody enhancement, which does not affect the quality of the sperm and has specificity with high sexual separation accuracy. Moreover, microfluidic technique is an innovative tool for sperm separation, with increased installation efficiency and convenience but low accuracy and speed of detection. In this study, particles were separated using magnetic beads, magnetic beads on monoclonal antibodies, and sperm with the function of magnetic beads on monoclonal antibodies by controlling the microfluidic system fluid flow rate at 2 µL/min and releasing a 2.5-V electric field. This microfluidic device separated 100% and 95.42% of the magnetic beads and magnetic beads on monoclonal antibodies, respectively. The sperm separation test results showed that positively charged sperm Y moved to the negative electrical fluid channel with a specially designed multi-walled carbon nanotube microfluidic device that showed an X- and Y-sperm separation with a success rate of 80.12%. Compared with natural pregnancy (X- and Y-sperm ration 50:50, 50%), our proposed method is approximately 30.12% better.
Autonomy and focus of attention in medical motor skills learning: a randomized experiment
Authors: Pollok Franziska , Cook David A. , Shaikh Nizamuddin , Pankratz Shane , Morrey Mark E. , Laack Torrey A. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background The ‘OPTIMAL’ (Optimizing Performance Through Intrinsic Motivation for Learning) theory of motor learning suggests that autonomy, external focus of attention, and perceived competence can improve learning of simple motor tasks. The authors hypothesized that enhanced (vs. routine) autonomy and external (vs. internal) focus of attention would improve first-try performance of two medical motor tasks.Methods The authors conducted a randomized two-by-two factorial design study with high school students as participants. Task instructions promoted either enhanced or routine autonomy, and either external or internal focus of attention. These conditions were replicated in a crossover design for two common medical tasks (chest compressions on a manikin and a Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery peg transfer task). Primary outcomes were objective measures of task performance (chest compression deviation from target depth; peg transfer time with penalties for errors). Secondary outcomes included subjective perceptions of confidence, autonomy, and workload.Results 133 high school students participated in this study. The primary outcomes concerning enhanced vs. routine autonomy demonstrated no statistically significant difference in either task (chest compression depth deviation: difference − 0.7 mm [score range 0 to 37.5 mm]; 95% confidence interval (CI95) -3.85, 2.41; p = .65; peg transfer penalized time: rate ratio 1.03; CI95 0.91, 1.31; p = .79). The authors likewise found no statistically significant difference for external vs. internal focus of attention (depth deviation: difference 1.1 mm; CI95 -2.04, 4.17; p = .50; penalized time: rate ratio 0.89; CI95 0.75, 1.13; p = .33). The authors found no statistically significant differences for either comparison in confidence, autonomy and workload (p > .09; differences ranged from − 0.83 to 0.79 [scale range 0 to 10]).Conclusions First-try performance of chest compressions and peg transfer by novice learners is not significantly affected by enhanced (vs. routine) autonomy or external (vs. internal) focus of attention.
Early Treatment of COVID-19 Pneumonia with Anakinra Guided by Urokinase Plasminogen Receptor
Authors: Giamarellos-Bourboulis Evangelos , Kyriazopoulou Evdoxia , Poulakou Garyfallia , Milionis Haralampos , Metallidis Simeon , Adamis Georgios , Tsiakos Konstantinos , Fragkou Archontoula , Rapti Aggeliki , Damoulari Christina , Fantoni Massimo , Kalomenidis Ioannis , Chrysos Georgios , Angeheben Andrea , Kainis Ilias , Alexiou Zoi , Castelli Francesco , Serino Francesco Saverio , Tsilika Maria , Bakakos Petros , Nicastri Emanuele , Tzavara Vassiliki , Kostis Evangelos , Dagna Lorenzo , Koufargyris Panayiotis , Dimakou Katerina , Savvanis Spyridon , Tzatzagou Glykeria , Chini Maria , Cavalli Giulio , Bassetti Matteo , Katrini Konstantina , Kotsis Vasileios , Tsoukalas George , Selmi Carlo , Bliziotis Ioannis , Samarkos Michael , Doumas Michael , Ktena Sofia , Masgala Aikaterini , Papanikolaou Ilias , Kosmidou Maria , Myrodia Dimitra-Melia , Argyraki Aikaterini , Cardellino Chiara Simona , Koliakou Katerina , Katsigianni Eleni-Ioanna , Rapti Vassiliki , Giannitsioti Efthymia , Cingolani Antonella , Micha Styliani , Akinosoglou Karolina , Liatsis-Douvitsas Orestis , Symbardi Styliani , Gatselis Nikolaos , Mouktaroudi Maria , Ippolito Giuseppe , Florou Eleni , Kotsaki Antigone , Netea Mihai , Eugen-Olsen Jesper , Kyprianou Miltiades , Panagopoulos Periklis , Dalekos George 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Early recognition of risk and start of treatment may improve unfavorable outcome of COVID-19. In the SAVE-MORE double-blind randomized trial, 594 patients with pneumonia without respiratory dysfunction at risk as defined by plasma suPAR (soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor) ≥ 6 ng/ml were 1:2 randomized to subcutaneous placebo or 100 mg anakinra once daily for 10 days; 85.9% were co-administered dexamethasone. After 28 days, anakinra-treated patients were distributed to lower strata of the 11-point World Health Organization ordinal Clinical Progression Scale (WHO-CPS) (adjusted odds ratio-OR 0.36; 95%CI 0.26–0.50; P < 0.001); anakinra protected from severe disease or death (≥ 6 points of WHO-CPS) (OR: 0.46; P: 0.010). The median WHO-CPS decrease in the placebo and anakinra groups was 3 and 4 points (OR 0.40; P < 0.0001); the median decrease of SOFA score was 0 and 1 points (OR 0.63; P: 0.004). 28-day mortality decreased (hazard ratio: 0.45; P: 0.045) and hospital stay was shorter. (Sponsored by the Hellenic Institute for the Study of Sepsis ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT04680949)
RESPONSE OF HETEROTROPHIC MICROBIAL COMMUNITIES TO AN ENVIRONMENTAL GRADIENT IN THE FLOODPLAIN OF MAPIRE RIVER, VENEZUELA
Authors: Zamora-Figueroa Alejandra , Hernández-Valencia Ismael , Malaver Nora 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Soil physico-chemical characteristics of floodplains, particularly hydrology, influence microbiological activity. As such, each river floodplain system has a unique physico-chemical dynamic that in turn supports the microbial community. The Mapire River floodplain is a complex system in which seasonal flood pulses cause changes in the soil physico-chemical variables. We examined how these temporal and spatial differences are associated with the microbiological activity along a seasonally flooded gradient at the mouth of the Mapire River (Lower Orinoco, Venezuela). Soil samples were collected during three different seasons by a systematic sampling at 4 points of the gradient, defined by the intensity of flooding. The physico-chemical parameters of the soil were determined and related by the density and physiological profile of the microbial community through multivariate permutation analysis and gradient analysis. The results indicate that there is a spatial gradient determined by soil clay content and a temporal gradient influenced by moisture and total organic carbon. Significant differences were found among soil zones and seasons, with the interaction of both factors also significant. It was observed that microbial activity is decisive in phosphorus dynamics, even during flooding. It is concluded that amid the complex interactions between biotic and abiotic factors, microbial communities are able to respond to changes in the physico-chemical soil environment and maintain their activity throughout the hydroperiod.
Identification of A New Biomarker For Herpes Zoster Infection in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hashimoto Marowa , Funahashi Keiko , Tsumiyama Ken , Takashima Yoshinori , Maeda Toshihisa , Fukuda Koji , Hayashi Shinya , Kuroda Ryosuke , Matsubara Tsukasa 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Herpes zoster (HZ) is known as a side effect of using biologics in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Incidence of this side effect may be different depending on genetic factors because susceptibility to HZ infection varies by race. Here, we analyzed the statistical relationships of whole genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with HZ infection in biologics-treated RA patients.The subjects were 321 Japanese female patients (including 56 herpes virus infected patients) of RA using biologics. The relationships of 302,814 SNPs with HZ infection were analyzed using case-control analyses by Fisher’s exact tests. We picked up SNPs (P < 10-8) significantly associated with HZ infection. Then, herpes infection was compared among the genotypes using a multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for onset age of RA.Rs10774580 located in 2’-5’-oligoadenylate synthetase like gene (OASL) was significantly associated with herpes virus infection. The minor allele homozygous carrier was positively associated with herpes virus infection in multivariate analysis.We for the first time showed a significant relationship between a genetic factor and HZ infection among RA patients. Rs10774580 may be one of the biomarkers for HZ infection.
Hand function and cost effectiveness after collagenase injection versus aponeurectomy for Dupuytren’s contracture: results of the CeCORD-J study
Authors: Yamamoto Michiro , Yasunaga Hideo , Kakinoki Ryosuke , Tsubokawa Naoto , Morita Akimasa , Tanaka Katsumi , Sakai Akinori , Kurahashi Toshikazu , Hirata Hitoshi , Tatebe Masahiro , Onishi Tetsuro , Iwatsuki Katsuyuki , Tokutake Katsuhiro , Otani Kazuhiro , Menuki Kunitaka , Yamanaka Yoshiaki , Urata Shiro , Oguchi Takeshi , Iwasaki Norimasa , Matsui Yuichiro , Ikegami Hiroyasu , Sakano Hiroaki , Katsumura Tetsu , Nishiwaki Masao , Tanaka Toshikazu , Hirase Yuichi , Kanno Yuri , Kato Hiroyuki , Hayashi Masanori , Omokawa Shohei , Hasegawa Hideo , Gotani Hiroyuki , Tanaka Yoshitaka , Sunagawa Toru , Shinomiya Rikuo , Kajiwara Rhoji , Nakao Etsuhiro , Nishizuka Takanobu , Hattori Yasunori , Shinohara Takaaki , Watanabe Kentaro , Okui Nobuyuki , Koshima Hiroshi , Tajika Tsuyoshi , Ohi Hiroyuki , Kaji Yoshio , Nagayoshi Eiichi , Igarashi Ataru 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThis study compared hand function and the cost effectiveness of treatment between collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection and limited fasciectomy for patients with Dupuytren’s contracture (DC).Materials and MethodsThe CeCORD-J study is a prospective, multicenter, non-randomized controlled, observational study of two parallel groups. Participants were DC patients with multiple affected fingers, including flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. The primary outcome was the Hand10 score, as a patient-reported outcome measure. We set secondary outcomes of EQ-5D-5L score, degree of extension deficit, and direct cost. Propensity score adjustment was used to balance differences in patient characteristics between groups.ResultsParticipants comprised 52 patients in the Collagenase group and 26 patients in the Surgery group. Hand10 score was significantly better in the Collagenase group at 1 and 2 weeks. EQ-5D-5L score was significantly higher in the Collagenase group at 8 weeks. Mean direct cost was 248,000 yen higher in the Surgery group than in the Collagenase group. Extension deficit angle of the PIP joint was significantly larger in the Collagenase group at 26 weeks.ConclusionsCCH injection provides better short-term hand function and cost effectiveness than surgery.UMIN-CTR (UMIN000029826)