bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Which sagittal evaluation system can effectively predict mechanical complications in the treatment of elderly patients with adult degenerative scoliosis? Roussouly classification or Global Alignment and Proportion (GAP) Score
Authors: Sun Xiangyao , Sun Wenzhi , Sun Siyuan , Hu Hailiang , Zhang Sitao , Kong Chao , Lu Shibao 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
To achieve the proper sagittal alignment, previous studies have developed different assessment systems for adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS) which could help the spine surgeon in making treatment strategies. The purpose of our study is to evaluate whether Roussouly classification or global alignment and proportion (GAP) score is more appropriate in the prediction of mechanical complications after surgical treatment of ADS.

Methods
ADS patients who received long segmental fusion in the treatment during the period from December 2016 to December 2018 were evaluated in this study. Basic information and radiologic measurements were collected for analysis. Patients were divided into two groups according to occurrence or absence of mechanical complications for comparison. Mechanical complications included proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK), proximal junctional failure (PJF). GAP categories divided GAP score into proportioned spinopelvic position, moderately disproportioned position, and severely disproportioned position according to the cut-off values. The correlation between evaluation systems and mechanical complications was analyzed through a logistic regression model via stepwise backward elimination based on the Wald statistics. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the predictability of the evaluation systems in the occurrence of mechanical complications and calculate their cut-off value. Area under the curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the validity of the thresholds.

Results
A total of 80 patients were included in this study. There were 41 patients in mechanical complication group and 39 patients in no mechanical complication group. GAP score (P = 0.008) and GAP categories (P = 0.007) were positively correlated with mechanical complications; Roussouly score was negatively correlated with mechanical complications (P = 0.034); GAP score was positively correlated with PJK (P = 0.021); Roussouly score was negatively correlated with implant-related complications (P = 0.018); GAP categories were correlated with implant loosening (P = 0.023). Results of ROC showed that GAP score was more effective in predicting PJK (AUC = 0.863) and PJF (AUC = 0.724) than Roussouly score; GAP categories (AUC = 0.561) was more effective than GAP score (AUC = 0.555) in predicting implant-related complications.

Conclusions
Roussouly classification could only be a rough estimate of optimal spinopelvic alignment. Quantitative parameters in GAP score made it more effective in predicting mechanical complications, PJK and PJF than Roussouly classification.
Axillary uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for bullae is a cosmetically superior approach to primary spontaneous pneumothorax: a case report
Authors: Ma Weijiang , Deng Xiuping , Wen Ming , Yang Limin , Ouyang Xun , Liu Xin , Liu Yin 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
Bulla is a common cause of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) through the lateral chest wall is a common surgical approach and an effective treatment for this condition, but postoperative incision scars affect the aesthetic outcome. VATS via axillary approach can hide the scar in the axilla, and the wound in its natural state is invisible; this greatly improves the cosmetic appearance. To our knowledge, this is the first report of VATS-based bullectomy via the axillary approach in a patient with spontaneous pneumothorax.

Case presentation
A 20-year-old female patient was admitted to the hospital with a 2-day history of chest tightness and chest pain. Plain chest computed tomography showed right spontaneous pneumothorax, lung compression of 75%, and right pulmonary bulla. After complete preoperative examination, VATS bullectomy via right axillary approach was performed. During the operation, a bulla measuring about 4 × 4 cm was found at the apex of the right lung and resected. The incision healed well, and the patient was discharged after surgery.

Conclusions
VATS bullectomy via axillary approach is safe and feasible, with the incision hidden in the axilla and not visible in the natural state. This method leaves no scar on the chest wall and has good cosmetic outcome.
A multicenter cross-sectional French study of the impact of COVID-19 on neuromuscular diseases
Authors: Pisella Lucie Isoline , Fernandes Sara , Solé Guilhem , Stojkovic Tanya , Tard Céline , Chanson Jean-Baptiste , Bouhour Françoise , Salort-Campana Emmanuelle , Beaudonnet Guillemette , Debergé Louise , Duval Fanny , Grapperon Aude-Marie , Masingue Marion , Nadaj-Pakleza Aleksandra , Péréon Yann , Audic Frédérique , Behin Anthony , Friedman Diane , Magot Armelle , Noury Jean-Baptiste , Souvannanorath Sarah , Wahbi Karim , Antoine Jean-Christophe , Bigaut Kévin , Camdessanché Jean-Philippe , Cintas Pascal , Debs Rabab , Espil-Taris Caroline , Kremer Laurent , Kuntzer Thierry , Laforêt Pascal , Laugel Vincent , Mallaret Martial , Michaud Maud , Nollet Sylvain , Svahn Juliette , Vicart Savine , Villar-Quiles Rocio Nur , Desguerre Isabelle , Adams David , Segovia-Kueny Sandrine , Merret Géraldine , Hammouda Elhadi , Molon Annamaria , Attarian Shahram 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
Due to their health condition, patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMD) are at greater risk of developing serious complications with COVID-19. The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence of COVID-19 among NMD patients and the risk factors for its impact and severity during the first wave of the pandemic. Clinical data were collected from NMD-COVID-19 patients, between March 25, 2020 and May 11, 2020 in an anonymous survey carried out by expert physicians from the French Health Care Network Filnemus.

Results
Physicians reported 84 patients, including: 34 with myasthenia gravis, 27 with myopathy and 23 with neuropathy. COVID-19 had no effect on NMD for 48 (58%) patients and 48 (58%) patients developed low COVID-19 severity. COVID-19 caused the death of 9 (11%) NMD patients. Diabetic patients were at greater risk of dying. Patients with diabetes, hypertension or severe forms of NMD had a higher risk of developing a moderate or severe form of COVID-19. In our cohort, corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants were not significantly associated with higher COVID-19 severity for acquired NMD.

Conclusion
During this period, a small percentage of French NMD patients was affected by COVID-19 compared to the general French population and COVID-19 had a limited short-term effect on them. Diabetes, hypertension and a severe degree of NMD were identified as risk factors of unfavorable outcome following COVID-19. Conversely, in our cohort of patients with acquired NMD, corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants did not appear to be risk factors for more severe COVID-19.
The impact of deep versus standard neuromuscular block on intraoperative safety during laparoscopic surgery: an international multicenter randomized controlled double-blind strategy trial — EURO-RELAX TRIAL
Authors: Honing Maarten , Reijnders-Boerboom Gabby , Dell-Kuster Salome , van Velzen Monique , Martini Chris , Valenza Franco , Proto Paolo , Cambronero Oscar Díaz , Broens Suzanne , Panhuizen Ivo , Roozekrans Margot , Fuchs-Buder Thomas , Boon Martijn , Dahan Albert , Warlé Michiel 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
Muscle relaxants are routinely used during anesthesia to facilitate endotracheal intubation and to optimize surgical conditions. However, controversy remains about the required depth of neuromuscular block (NMB) needed for optimal surgical working conditions and how this relates to other outcomes. For instance, a deep neuromuscular block yields superior surgical working conditions compared to a standard NMB in laparoscopic surgery, however, a robust association to other (safety) outcomes has not yet been established.

Methods
Trial design: an international multicenter randomized controlled double-blind strategy trial.
Trial population: 922 patients planned for elective, laparoscopic or robotic, abdominal surgery.
Intervention: Patients will be randomized to a deep NMB (post-tetanic count 1–2 twitches) or standard care (single-dose muscle relaxant administration at induction and repeated only if warranted by surgical team).
Main trial endpoints: Primary endpoint is the difference in incidence of intraoperative adverse events during laparoscopic surgery graded according to ClassIntra® classification (i.e., ClassIntra® grade ≥ 2) between both groups. Secondary endpoints include the surgical working conditions, 30-day postoperative complications, and patients’ quality of recovery.

Discussion
This trial was designed to analyze the effect of deep neuromuscular block compared to standard neuromuscular block on intra- and postoperative adverse events in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04124757(EURO-RELAX); registration URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04124757, registered on October 11th, 2019.
The current status, challenges and prospects of using biomass energy in Ethiopia
Authors: Benti Natei Ermias , Gurmesa Gamachis Sakata , Argaw Tegenu , Aneseyee Abreham Berta , Gunta Solomon , Kassahun Gashaw Beyene , Aga Genene Shiferaw , Asfaw Ashenafi Abebe 
Published: October 2021

AbstractDespite enormous challenges in accessing sustainable energy supplies and advanced energy technologies, Ethiopia has one of the world's fastest growing economies. The development of renewable energy technology and the building of a green legacy in the country are being prioritized. The total installed capacity for electricity generation in Ethiopia is 4324.3 MW as on October, 2018. Renewable energy accounts for 96.5% of total generation; however, despite the county's enormous biomass energy potential, only 0.58% of power is generated using biomass. Ethiopia has surplus woody biomass, crop residue and animal dung resources which comprise about 141.8 million metric tons of biomass availability per year. At present the exploited potential is about 71.9 million metric tons per year. This review paper provides an in-depth assessment of Ethiopia's biomass energy availability, potential, challenges, and prospects. The findings show that, despite Ethiopia's vast biomass resource potential, the current use of modern energy from biomass is still limited. As a result, this study supports the use of biomass-based alternative energy sources without having a negative impact on the socioeconomic system or jeopardizing food security or the environment. This finding also shows the challenges, opportunities and possible solutions to tackle the problem to expand alternative energy sources. The most effective techniques for producing and utilizing alternate energy sources were also explored. Moreover, some perspectives are given based on the challenges of using efficient energy production and sustainable uses of biomass energy in Ethiopia as it could be also implemented in other developing countries. We believe that the information in this review will shed light on the current and future prospects of biomass energy deployment in Ethiopia.
The methylome of Biomphalaria glabrata and other mollusks: enduring modification of epigenetic landscape and phenotypic traits by a new DNA methylation inhibitor
Authors: Luviano Nelia , Lopez Marie , Gawehns Fleur , Chaparro Cristian , Arimondo Paola B. , Ivanovic Slavica , David Patrice , Verhoeven Koen , Cosseau Céline , Grunau Christoph 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
5-Methylcytosine (5mC) is an important epigenetic mark in eukaryotes. Little information about its role exists for invertebrates. To investigate the contribution of 5mC to phenotypic variation in invertebrates, alteration of methylation patterns needs to be produced. Here, we apply new non-nucleoside DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi) to introduce aleatory changes into the methylome of mollusk species.

Results
Flavanone inhibitor Flv1 was efficient in reducing 5mC in the freshwater snails Biomphalaria glabrata and Physa acuta, and to a lesser degree, probably due to lower stability in sea water, in the oyster Crassostrea gigas. Flv1 has no toxic effects and significantly decreased the 5mC level in the treated B. glabrata and in its offspring. Drug treatment triggers significant variation in the shell height in both generations. A reduced representation bisulfite-sequencing method called epiGBS corroborates hypomethylation effect of Flv1 in both B. glabrata generations and identifies seven Differential Methylated Regions (DMR) out of 32 found both in Flv1-exposed snails and its progeny, from which 5 were hypomethylated, demonstrating a multigenerational effect. By targeted bisulfite sequencing, we confirmed hypomethylation in a locus and show that it is associated with reduced gene expression.

Conclusions
Flv1 is a new and efficient DNMTi that can be used to induce transient and heritable modifications of the epigenetic landscape and phenotypic traits in mollusks, a phylum of the invertebrates in which epigenetics is understudied.
Identification and drug-induced reversion of molecular signatures of Alzheimer’s disease onset and progression in AppNL-G-F, AppNL-F, and 3xTg-AD mouse models
Authors: Pauls Eduardo , Bayod Sergi , Mateo Lídia , Alcalde Víctor , Juan-Blanco Teresa , Sánchez-Soto Marta , Saido Takaomi C. , Saito Takashi , Berrenguer-Llergo Antoni , Attolini Camille Stephan-Otto , Gay Marina , de Oliveira Eliandre , Duran-Frigola Miquel , Aloy Patrick 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
In spite of many years of research, our understanding of the molecular bases of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is still incomplete, and the medical treatments available mainly target the disease symptoms and are hardly effective. Indeed, the modulation of a single target (e.g., β-secretase) has proven to be insufficient to significantly alter the physiopathology of the disease, and we should therefore move from gene-centric to systemic therapeutic strategies, where AD-related changes are modulated globally.

Methods
Here we present the complete characterization of three murine models of AD at different stages of the disease (i.e., onset, progression and advanced). We combined the cognitive assessment of these mice with histological analyses and full transcriptional and protein quantification profiling of the hippocampus. Additionally, we derived specific Aβ-related molecular AD signatures and looked for drugs able to globally revert them.

Results
We found that AD models show accelerated aging and that factors specifically associated with Aβ pathology are involved. We discovered a few proteins whose abundance increases with AD progression, while the corresponding transcript levels remain stable, and showed that at least two of them (i.e., lfit3 and Syt11) co-localize with Aβ plaques in the brain. Finally, we found two NSAIDs (dexketoprofen and etodolac) and two anti-hypertensives (penbutolol and bendroflumethiazide) that overturn the cognitive impairment in AD mice while reducing Aβ plaques in the hippocampus and partially restoring the physiological levels of AD signature genes to wild-type levels.

Conclusions
The characterization of three AD mouse models at different disease stages provides an unprecedented view of AD pathology and how this differs from physiological aging. Moreover, our computational strategy to chemically revert AD signatures has shown that NSAID and anti-hypertensive drugs may still have an opportunity as anti-AD agents, challenging previous reports.
The protein-protein interaction between connective tissue growth factor and annexin A2 is relevant to pannus formation in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Yin Guoyu , Yang Chenglin , Wu Gan , Yu Xinxin , Tian Qingqing , Chen Daoxing , Cao Ben , Zhao Lin , Xu Nannan , Jin Shengwei , Zhang Wei , Wang Jianguang 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF)-induced angiogenesis is a crucial factor in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but CTGF-interacting protein and related molecular mechanism of their interaction have not been fully elucidated.

Methods
CTGF-interacting proteins were identified through the LC-MS/MS analysis of the Co-IP products from fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) lysates, and the interaction between CTGF and annexin A2 (ANXA2) was further confirmed through Co-IP and BiFC assay. The binding domain, mutant, mechanism, and angiogenesis function were assessed by homology modeling, molecular docking, MTT, cell scratch, tube formation, and chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assays. Additionally, severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mouse co-implantation model was constructed to confirm the effect of ANXA2/CTGF-TSP1 in the process of RA in vivo.

Results
ANXA2 was identified and verified as an interaction partner of CTGF for the first time by Co-IP and LC-MS/MS analysis. Co-localization of CTGF and ANXA2 was observed in RA-FLS, and direct interaction of the TSP-1 domain of CTGF and ANXA2 was determined in HEK293T cells. The spatial conformation and stable combination of the ANXA2/CTGF-TSP1 complex were assessed by homology modeling in the biomimetic environment. The function of the ANXA2/CTGF-TSP1 complex was proved on promoting FLS proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in vitro and deteriorating FLS invasion and joint damage in SCID mice.

Conclusions
TSP-1 is the essential domain in CTGF/ANXA2 interaction and contributes to FLS migration and pannus formation, inducing the process of RA.
Galectin-3, metalloproteinase-2 and cardiovascular disease were independently associated with metalloproteinase-14 in patients with type 1 diabetes: a cross sectional study
Authors: Melin Eva Olga , Dereke Jonatan , Hillman Magnus 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundType 1 diabetes (T1D) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Matrix metalloproteinase-14 (MMP-14) is involved in the development of atherosclerosis and CVD. The main aim was to explore the associations between MMP-14 and selected inflammatory and metabolic variables, CVD, depression, physical activity, smoking and medication in patients with T1D. The secondary aim was to explore associations with CVD.MethodsCross-sectional design. The participants were consecutively recruited from one specialist diabetes out-patient clinic. Depression was assessed by a self-report instrument. Blood samples, anthropometrics and blood pressure were collected, supplemented with data from electronic health records. High MMP-14 was defined as  ≥  5.81 ng/mL. Non-parametric tests, Chi2tests and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed.ResultsTwo hundred and sixty-eighth T1D patients aged 18–59 years participated (men 58%, high MMP-14 25%, CVD 3%). Sixty-seven patients with high MMP-14, compared to 201 patients with lower MMP-14, had higher prevalence of CVD (8% versus 1%,p  =  0.012), and had higher levels of galectin-3 (p <  0.001) and MMP-2 (p =  0.018). Seven patients with CVD, compared to 261 without, were older (p  =  0.003), had longer diabetes duration (p  =  0.027), and had higher prevalence of high MMP-14 (71% versus 24%,p  =  0.012), abdominal obesity (p  =  0.014), depression (p =  0.022), usage of antidepressants (p  =  0.008), antihypertensive drugs (p  =  0.037) and statins (p  =  0.049).Galectin-3 (per ng/mL) [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.19,p  <  0.001], CVD (AOR 8.1,p  =  0.027), and MMP-2 (per ng/mL) (AOR 1.01,p =  0.044) were associated with high MMP-14. Depression (AOR 17.4,p =  0.006), abdominal obesity (15.8,p  =  0.006), high MMP-14 (AOR 14.2,p  =  0.008), and diabetes duration (AOR 1.10,p  =  0.012) were associated with CVD.ConclusionsThe main findings of this study were that galecin-3, MMP-2, and CVD were independently associated with high levels of MMP-14 in T1D patients. The association between MMP-14 and galectin-3 is a new finding. No traditional risk factors for CVD were associated with MMP-14. Depression, abdominal obesity and MMP-14 were independently associated with CVD.
Microbial analysis and virulence genes detection of milk preserved using heat-assisted pulsed electric field
Authors: Yuliangsih Suci , Waturangi Diana Elizabeth , Yogiara  
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Objective
Microbial analysis in milk preserved using heat-assisted Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) need to be assessed. In this study we analyze the microbial quality and virulence-associated genes in milk samples preserved using heat-assisted PEF from several producers in Indonesia.

Results
Milk samples were collected consisting of raw milk, milks taken after the heating, PEF, mixing, cooling, and packaging. Microbiological and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) detection for virulence genes were performed. Heat-assisted PEF treatment gave 2.7–7.47 log reduction for TPC; 1.6–2.56 log reduction for MPN number; 3.13–6.48 log reduction for S. aureus; and for B. cereus there was an increase of 0.76 log and a reduction of 0.46 log. While milk samples from thermal pasteurization gave log reduction numbers of TPC, MPN, and S. aureus respectively 5.28; 2.56; and 4.73, for B. cereus was increasing 2.4 log. Producer C performed the best results with significant reduction compared with others (p < 0.005). There were no colonies of L. monocytogenes found in all of the samples. PCR results showed that milk samples possessed virulence genes 17.5% (10/57) of invA genes, 54.4% (31/57) of nheA genes, 68.4% (39/57) of cytK genes, 38.6% (22/57) of nuc genes, 63.2% (36/57) of ileS genes, while hly and actA genes were not detected.
Supplementation of Lactobacillus casei reduces the mortality of Bombyx mori larvae challenged by Nosema bombycis
Authors: Suraporn Siripuk , Terenius Olle 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Objective
Pebrine, caused by the microsporidium Nosema bombycis, is one of the severe diseases in Thai polyvoltine strains of the silkworm Bombyx mori. Studies showing the presence of Lactobacillus species in the silkworm gut, where the Nosema parasites enter, suggests that these bacteria may have a protective effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of supplementation of Lactobacillus casei on the survival ratio of silkworm larvae challenged with N. bombycis.

Results
A group of silkworm larvae of the commercial Thai polyvoltine hybrid strain DokBua was supplemented with L. casei on the second day of the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th instar. When a control group of silkworm larvae were challenged with N. bombycis on the second day of the 4th instar, the survival rate was 68%, but it was 91% for larvae supplemented with L. casei. For those larvae that survived the treatments until pupation, we determined the growth characters larval weight, cocooning ratio, and pupation ratio, and the economic characters cocoon weight and cocoon shell weight. When infected with N. Bombycis, growth characters were significantly higher in larvae also receiving L. casei.