bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
TB-diabetes comorbidity and associated factors in Maekel Zone, Eritrea: A cross sectional study.
Authors: Araia Zenawi Zeramariam , Mesfin Araia Berhane , Mebrahtu Amanuel Hadgu , Tewelde Adiam Ghebreyohanns , Osman Randa , Tuumzghi Hagos Andom 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Both diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB) are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Eritrea. TB-DM comorbidity is known to complicate TB care, control and prevention. However, systematically studied epidemiological data on TB-DM comorbidity and its associated risk factors is lacking in this country. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of DM and its associated factors among TB patients in Maekel region, Eritrea.Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in eleven TB diagnostic and treatment sites. Pretested data extraction tool was used to collect data from medical records. Prevalence data was analysed using frequencies, proportions and median. To determine DM risk factors, univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was done with 95%CI and p value < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Out of total eligible (1,134) TB cases, DM prevalence was 9.88%. Age and BMI were identified as independent risk factors for DM among TB patients. Higher odds of DM was found among TB patients aged 45-54 (aOR: 4.85[1.39-16.94], p= 0.013) and those ≥ 55 (aOR: 6.99[2.12-23.04], p= 0.001). TB cases with normal BMI were two times more likely to have DM (aOR: 2.00[1.23-3.26], p= 0.005) compared to those underweight. Conclusion: The prevalence of DM among TB cases observed in this study is high, a clarion call to scale up current efforts to integrate TB-DM services within routine care. Furthermore, age and BMI were identified as independent risk factors for DM in TB cases, pointing to the need to pay attention to age and BMI status when managing this co-morbidityKey words: TB-DM prevalence, transient hyperglycaemia, fasting blood glucose, pre-diabetes, Eritrea.
The computer application for the mathematical modeling of optical fibers used in metrology
Authors: Torbus Sławomir , Kozakiewicz Michał 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The article briefly characterizes single mode optical fibers that are not resistant to bending (ITU-T G.652 and G.653) and resistant to bending (ITU-T G.657) and multimode telecommunications optical fibers (ITU-T G.651). The basic mathematical formulas implemented in the application have also been presented, with which the parameters of the designed optical fibers are calculated. The practical part was to create and to test the application enabling the design of single mode and multimode optical fibers of selected refractive index profiles. This paper presents the results of simulations of commonly used telecommunications optical fibers (single mode and multimode). Conclusions regarding the accuracy of calculations performed by the computer application and areas of its applications were formulated.
Effects of Jianpi Lishi Jiedu Granules on Colorectal Adenoma Patients after Endoscopic Treatment: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wu Hao , Huang Yuzhen , Yang Lu , Su Kunhan , Tian Shuo , Chen Xin , Li Siyu , Liu Wanli 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundColorectal adenomas (CRAs) are precancerous lesions of the large intestine presenting as colorectal polyps. At present, the conventional treatment methods for CRA mainly include high-frequency electrocoagulation and electroexcision, biopsy forceps polypectomy, cauterization by laser and microwave and other endoscopic interventions. The principal advantages conferred by these treatment strategies include less trauma, quick postoperative recovery, and simplicity to perform. However, the higher recurrence rates and insignificant improvement of postoperative symptoms associated with endoscopic surgery are considerable drawbacks to this approach. Besides, there is currently no effective pharmacotherapy to prevent the recurrence of CRA. Jianpi Lishi Jiedu (JLJ) Granules are a form of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used to manage postoperative patients with CRA, which has shown a certain degree of efficacy in clinical practice. However, its effectiveness and safety profile have not been convincingly evaluated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety profile of JLJ Granules in the management of postoperative patients with CRA, and to observe the recurrence rate of adenoma in these patients. MethodsA randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial is performed in this study. A total of 80 postoperative patients with CRA will be randomly classified into the Jianpi Lishi Jiedu Granules group or the placebo control group. Patients in both groups shall receive 3 months of intervention, after which a safety evaluation will be performed for all of the patients. All of the patients must receive medical follow-up and evaluation of outcome indicators, including cardinal TCM symptom scores, minor TCM symptom scores, Bristol Stool Scale, efficacy of TCM symptoms, and reexamination of colonoscopy, on month 3, 6 and 12 to calculate the recurrence rate of adenomas. DiscussionIn this study, the efficacy and safety of JLJ Granules in terms of improving the clinical symptoms of postoperative patients with CRA, and its impact on the recurrence of adenomas will be evaluated. Trial registration: Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR 2100044297. Registered on March 16, 2021
The Opinions and Experiences of Nurses on Frailty Screening Among Older Hospitalized Patients. An Exploratory Study
Authors: Warnier Ron MJ , van Erik Rossum , Du Moulin Monique , van Marjolein Lottum , Schols Jos MGA , Kempen Gertrudis IJM 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundRoutine screening for frailty at admission by nurses may be useful to detect geriatric risks and problems at an early stage. However, the added value of this screening is not clear yet. Information about the opinions and attitudes of nurses towards this screening is also lacking. As they have a crucial role in conducting this screening, an exploratory study was performed to examine hospital nurses’ opinions and perspectives about this screening and how it influences their daily work. MethodsA qualitative, exploratory approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with 13 nurses working on different general medical wards (surgical and internal medicine) in three Dutch hospitals. Frailty screening had been implemented for several years in these hospitals.ResultsThe participating nurses reported that frailty screening can be useful to structure their work, create more awareness of frail older patients and as starting point for pro-active nursing care. At the same time, they assess their clinical view as more important than the results of a standard screening tool. The nurses hardly used the overall screening scores, but were particularly interested in information regarding specific items, such as delirium or fall risk. Screening results are partly embedded systematically and in daily nursing care, e.g., in team briefings or during transfer of patients to other wards. The majority of the nurses had received little training about the background of frailty screening and the use of screening tools. ConclusionsMost nurses stated that frailty screening tools are helpful in daily practice. However, nurses did not use the frailty screening tools in the referred way; tools were particularly used to evaluate patients on separate items of the tool instead of the summative score of the tool. When frailty screening tools are implemented in daily practice, training needs to be focused on. Additional research in this field is necessary to gain more insight into nurses’ opinions on frailty screening.
The Mechanism of Degradation of Alizarin Red by a White-Rot Fungus (Lenzites Gibbosa)
Authors: Zhang Jian , Chi YuJie , Feng Lianrong 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background

Alizarin red (AR) is a typical anthraquinone dye, and the resulting wastewater is toxic and difficult to remove. A study showed that the white rot fungus Lenzites gibbosa (L. gibbosa) can degrade dye wastewater by decolorization and has evolved its own enzyme-producing traits.
Methods

In this study, transcriptome sequencing was performed after alizarin red treatment for 0, 3, 7, 10, and 14 h. The key pathways and key enzymes involved in alizarin red degradation were found to be though the analysis of KEGG, GO and COG. The GST, MnP and Laccase enzyme activities of L. gibbosa treated with alizarin red for 0–14 h were detected. LC-MS and GC-MS analyses of alizarin red decomposition products after 7 h and 14 h were performed.
Results

The glutathione metabolic pathway ko00480, and the key enzymes GST, MnP, Laccase and CYP450 were selected. Most of the genes encoding these enzymes were upregulated under alizarin red conditions. The GST activity increased 1.8 times from 117.55 U/mg prot at 0 h to 217.03 U/mg prot at 14 h. The MnP activity increased 2.9 times from 6.45 U/L to 18.55U/L. The Laccase activity increased 3.7 times from 7.22 U/L to 27.28 U/L. Analysis of the alizarin red decolourization rate showed that the decolourization rate at 14 h reached 20.21%. The main degradation intermediates were found to be 1,4-butene diacid, phthalic acid, 1,1-diphenylethylene, 9,10-dihydroanthracene, 1,2-naphthalene dicarboxylic acid, bisphenol, benzophenol-5,2-butene, acrylaldehyde, and 1-butylene, and the degradation process of AR was inferred. Overall, 1,4-butene diacid is the most important intermediate product produced by AR degradation.
Conclusions

The glutathione metabolic pathway was the key pathway for AR degradation. GST, MnP, Laccase and CYP450 were the key enzymes for AR degradation. 1,4-butene diacid is the most important intermediate product. This study explored the process of AR biodegradation at the molecular and biochemical levels and provided a theoretical basis for its application in practical production.
Environmental And Economic Impact of Using A Higher Efficiency Ventilator And Vaporizer During Surgery Under General Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Prospective Cohort
Authors: Field Ryan , Calderon Michael-David , Ronilo Steven Mason , Ma Michael , Maxwell Hailey , Mensah Paulette , Rinehart Joseph 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Compared to traditional breathing circuits, low-flow anesthesia machines utilize a low-volume breathing circuit system by injecting volatile agent into the circuit mainly during inspiration. We aimed to assess whether Maquet Flow-i C20 anesthesia workstation delivers volatile anesthetic more efficiently than a GE Aisys CS2 during elective general surgery. Methods: Eligible candidates enrolled in the study (2014-1248) met the following inclusion criteria: 18 – 65 years old, scheduled for surgery requiring general anesthesia at UC Irvine Health, and expected to receive sevoflurane for the duration of the procedure. Exclusion criteria: < 18 years old, history of COPD, cardiovascular disease, sevoflurane sensitivity, BMI > 30 kg/m2, ASA > 2, pregnant, or surgery scheduled < 120 minutes. We calculated the total amount of sevoflurane delivered and consumption rates during induction/maintenance periods and compared the groups using parametric testing (Student’s t-Test). Results: In total, 103 subjects (Maquet: n=52, GE: n=51) were analyzed. Overall, the Flow-i C-20 group consumed significantly less sevoflurane (95.5 ± 49.3 g) compared to the Aisys2 (118.2 ± 62.4 g) (p = 0.043 for group difference) corresponding to an approximately 20% efficiency improvement in overall agent delivery. When accounting for the fresh gas flow setting, agent concentration and length of induction, the Maquet machines delivered volatile agent at a significantly lower rate compared to the GE devices (7.4 ± 3.2 L/min vs. 9.2 ± 4.1 L/min; p = 0.017). Based on these results, we estimate that the Maquet Flow-i workstations can save an estimated average of $239,440 over the expected 10-year machine lifespan. This 20% decrease in CO2 equivalent emissions corresponds to 201 metric tons less greenhouse gas emissions over a decade compared to the GE Aisys; equivalent to 491,760 miles driven by an average passenger vehicle or 219,881 pounds of coal burned.Conclusions: Overall, our results from this pilot study suggest that the Maquet Flow-i delivers significantly less (~20%) volatile agent during routine elective surgery using a standardized anesthetic protocol compared to a traditional anesthesia system. The results demonstrate a strong opportunity for economic and environmental benefits if implemented across other medical institutions.
A Randomized Comparison of Loss of Resistance Versus Loss of Resistance Plus Electrical Stimulation: Effect On Success of Thoracic Epidural Placement
Authors: Dobson Sean Wayne , Weller Robert Stephen , Edwards Christopher , Turner James David , Jaffe Jonathan Douglas , Reynolds Jon Wellington , Henshaw Daryl 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Loss of resistance (LOR) for epidural catheter placement has been utilized for almost a century. LOR is a subjective endpoint associated with a high failure rate. Nerve stimulation (NS) has been described as an objective method for confirming placement of an epidural catheter. We hypothesized that the addition of NS to LOR would improve the success of epidural catheter placement.Methods: One-hundred patients were randomized to thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) utilizing LOR-alone or loss of resistance plus nerve stimulation (LOR+NS). The primary endpoint was rate of success, defined as loss of sensation following test dose. Secondary endpoints included performance time. An intention-to-treat analysis was planned, but a per-protocol analysis was performed to investigate the success rate when stimulation was achieved.Results: In the intention-to-treat analysis there was no difference in success rates (90% vs 82% [LOR+NS vs LOR-alone]; P = 0.39). The procedural time increased in the LOR+NS group (33.9 ± 12.8 vs 24.0 ± 8.0 min; P < 0.001). The per-protocol analysis found a statistically higher success rate for the LOR+NS group compared to the LOR-alone group (98% vs. 82%; P = 0.017) when only patients in whom stimulation was achieved were included.Conclusions: Addition of NS technique did not statistically improve the success rate for epidural placement when analyzed in an intention-to-treat format and was associated with a longer procedural time. In a per-protocol analysis a statistically higher success rate for patients in whom stimulation was obtained highlights the potential benefit of adding NS to LOR.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03087604 on 3/22/2017; Institutional Review Board Wake Forest School of Medicine IRB00039522, Food and Drug Administration Investigational Device Exemption: G160273.
The Clinical Characteristics of Intestinal Flora Imbalance in Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Construction of Early Warning Model
Authors: Zeng Xue tao , Yang Hong feng , Yang Yan , Gu Xin nan , Ma Xiu qin , Zhu Tao feng 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Bcackground There is still a lack of predictive models for early identification of intestinal flora imbalance in stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients. We assessed the risk factors related to intestinal flora imbalance in COPD patients, and established a simple predictive model and scoring rules suitable for clinical medical staff in the respiratory department.Methods From January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2019, COPD patients (195 cases), who attended the Outpatient Department of Respiratory and Critical Care of Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, were collected for a cross-sectional study. The patients were divided into the experimental groups (41 cases) and the control group (154 cases) based on the results of stool examination. By single-factor analysis and logistic regression analysis, the baseline data of two groups were performed to obtain a new prediction model, and then simplified it.Results The five predictive factors including body mass index(BMI), serum albumin(ALB), charlson comorbidity index(CCI), gastrointestinal symptom score(GSRs), and Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease(GOLD) classification entered the model. The area under the ROC curve of the model for predicting intestinal flora imbalance in patients with stable COPD is 0.953 [95%CI (0.924, 0.982)], further simplifying the scoring rules, and the area under the ROC curve is 0.767 [95%CI (0.676, 0.858)]. Conclusions In the study, the prediction model can scientifically and effectively predict the risk of intestinal flora imbalance in patients with stable COPD, and then implement early treatment to improve the prognosis. Furthermore, all indicators can be obtained easily and simply.
Nifuroxazide Ameliorates Pulmonary Fibrosis By Blocking Myofibroblast Genesis And Stat3 Activation: A Drug Repurposing Study
Authors: Gan Cailing , Zhang Qianyu , Liu Hongyao , Wang Guan , Wang Liqun , Li Yali , Tan Zui , Yin Wenya , Yao Yuqin , Xie Yongmei , Ouyang Liang , Yu Luoting , Ye Tinghong 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lung disease with complex pathogenesis, high mortality. The development of new drugs is time-consuming and laborious, and the research on new use of old drugs can save time and clinical costs and even avoid serious side effects. Nifuroxazide (NIF) was originally used to treat diarrhoea, but in recent years it has been found to have other pharmacological effects such as anti-tumor and inhibiting inflammatory diseases related to diabetic nephropathy. However, there are no reports about its role in pulmonary fibrosis.Methods: The therapeutic effect of NIF on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in vivo was measured by ELISA, hydroxyproline content, H&E and Masson staining, IHC and Western blot. The content of immune cells in lung tissue was analyzed by flow cytometry. NIF cytotoxicity were evaluated in NIH/3T3, Human pulmonary fibroblasts (HPF), A549 and Rat primary lung fibroblasts (RPLF) using MTT assay. Finally, a cell model induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) stimulation and different in vitro experiments (Immunofluorescence, Western blot, Wound migration assay) were conducted to determine the effect of NIF on the activation of fibroblasts and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and migration of epithelial cells.Results: In vivo, intraperitoneal injection of NIF relieved and reversed pulmonary fibrosis caused by BLM bronchial instillation. In addition, nifuroxazide inhibited the expression of a variety of cellular inflammatory factors and immune cells. Furthermore, nifuroxazide suppressed the activation of fibroblasts and the EMT of epithelial cells induced by TGF-β1. Most importantly, we used an analytical docking experiment and thermal shift assay to further verify that nifuroxazide worked in conjunction with Stat3. Moreover, nifuroxazide decreased the expression of p-Stat3 in vitro and in vivo.Conclusion: These results suggest that NIF inhibits and reverses pulmonary fibrosis and support NIF as a viable treatment option that may bring benefits to patients with IPF.
Diatom Species That Characterize Saline Ponds (South of Spain) With The Description of A New Navicula Species
Authors: Moreno David Fernandez , Sánchez-Castillo Pedro M. , Delgado Cristina , Almeida Salomé F.P. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The south of the Iberian Peninsula has a high number of saline ponds where electric conductivity (EC) is an important factor that affects directly aquatic organisms, influencing their distribution and abundance. Environmental factors (such as pH, EC and temperature) were measured and diatom assemblages were sampled in 15 saline shallow ponds in the south of Spain along a range of electric conductivity (1.4 mS to 51.6 mS cm-1) between spring of 2004 to early summer of 2006. Three groups of ponds were defined based on conductivity (oligosaline 1.4 to 5.3 mScm-1, mesosaline 10.9 to 17.3 mScm-1 and euhaline 32.3 to 51.6 mScm-1) and diatom assemblages were studied. PERMANOVA analysis showed significant differences in diatom community composition between the three groups of ponds. Multidimensional scaling analysis (nMDS) showed distinct clusters of diatom assemblages in oligosaline and mesosaline ponds. Dominant diatom species in the eusaline ponds were Tryblionella pararostrata, Halamphora cf. petrusa, Halamphora sp.1 and Cocconeis euglypta; in the mesosaline ponds Navicula veneta, Nitzschia elegantula and Planothidium delicatulum were dominant taxa and the oligosaline ponds were dominated by Navicula veneta, Pseudostaurosira brevistriata and Nitzschia inconspicua. A new diatom species was described in ponds with high electric conductivity (32-56 mS cm-1) and named N. maiorpargemina.A detailed description of N. maiorpargemina sp. nov. is presented in this study based on light and scanning electron microscopy after comparison with morphologically and ecologically related taxa.
Environmental Method for Preparation of Higher Color Strength Dyeing Cotton Fabrics with Colored Nanosilica Pigment
Authors: Zhang Jinping , Li Yonghe , Du Peibo , Guo Zhiguang , Cai Zaisheng , Ge Fengyan 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Dye wastewater into the water system would cause a severe threat to the natural environment. To reduce the dye discharge, it is highly essential to find a clean and green method to color cotton fabrics. Herein, this work has expediently designed the novel pigment with colored nanoparticles to dye cotton fabrics, which was based on the adsorption of dyes from dyes solution with the synthesis of worm-like hydrophilic porous silica (WHMS) and formed colored particles. It could be found that as-prepared WHMS exhibited with the larger surface area of 968.61 m2/g, the average size of 300 nm and the higher electronegativity on the surface of WHMS materials and could be favorable to capture dye to achieve the capacity above 500 mg/g for different cationic and reduce dyes discharge. The colored WHMS applied in dyeing cotton fabrics show the higher stability and stronger color strength by electrostatic attraction compared with original dyes, in which the mass of WHMS-dyes could be retained by above 80% in thermal decomposition, the color depth of WHMS-dyes dying fabrics increased by above1.2 times and the dye residues in the dyeing process were reduced. The high-quality dyeing fabrics can be obtained and nanospheres uniformly fixed on cotton fabrics through the binder to build a layer film, owing to its hydrophobicity and small sizes. The dyeing cotton fabrics exhibited good wet rubbing, washing fastness and hand feel. These results suggest that the WHMS-dyes can be suitable for cotton dyeing textiles as a sustainable coloring process.