bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of a Screening Instrument for Borderline Personality Disorder (SI-Bord) for Use among University Students
Authors: Lohanan Trustsavin , Leesawat Thanakorn , Wongpakaran Tinakon , Wongpakaran Nahathai , Karawekpanyawong Nuntaporn , Oon-Arom Awirut , Kuntawong Pimolpun
Published: July 2020

Background: The screening instrument for borderline personality disorder (SI-Bord) consists of a 5-item self-reported questionnaire on the key features of BPD from the DSM-5 using a 5-point Likert scale. This study investigated its validity and reliability in screening for BPD in university students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of university students in Thailand between November and December 2019. An online assessment gathered demographic data and results from the SI-Bord, the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Participants whose SI-Bord scores were ≥ 1 were randomly selected to be interviewed and assessed for a BPD diagnosis by four psychiatrists using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II Personality Disorders (SCID-II) as a reference point. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.925 (95% CI, 0.805–0.979) ensured inter-rater reliability between the four psychiatrists. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the SI-Bord, as compared to that of the SCID-II, were determined to indicate the cut-off score. The Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) was analyzed to evaluate its diagnostic accuracy.Results: The study included 342 students aged 18–25 years (the mean age was 20.25 ± 1.4 years), 80.4% of whom were female. Among the 68 participants selected for an online interview, 16 were diagnosed with BPD. The cut-off score of the SI-Bord was > 9, as suggested by the Youden index, yielding a sensitivity of 56.3% and a specificity of 92.3%. It had a positive predictive value of 69.2% and negative predictive value of 87.3%. The SI-Bord had adequate discriminative power between cases and non-cases of BPD, with the area under the ROC curve being 0.83. Cronbach’s alpha for the SI-Bord was 0.76, indicating acceptable internal consistency. The SI-Bord score was positively correlated to PHQ-9 and PSS-10 scores (r = 0.67 and r = 0.69, p < 0.001, respectively) and negatively correlated to MSPSS (r = - 0.50, p < 0.001). The prevalence of BPD in the sample was 6.4%, according to the cut-off score > 9. Conclusion: The SI-Bord demonstrated good reliability and validity for screening BPD in university students. However, a study in non-Thai and other population groups should be warranted.
Primary epithelioid angiosarcoma originating from the mandibular gingiva: a case report of an extremely rare oral lesion
Authors: Komatsu Yuko , Miyamoto Ikuya , Ohashi Yu , Katagiri Katsunori , Saito Daisuke , Obara Mizuki , Takeda Yasunori , Shiga Kiyoto , Yamada Hiroyuki
Published: July 2020

Background Angiosarcoma occurs very rarely in the oral cavity, and the epithelioid type is even rarer. Here, we report a rare case involving an elderly man with a primary epithelioid angiosarcoma that originated from the mandibular gingiva and resembled a dentigerous cyst on radiographs. Case presentation A 66-year-old Japanese man visited our hospital with a chief complaint of gingival swelling in right mandibular third molar region. A panoramic radiograph showed bone resorption around the crown of right mandibular third molar, which was impacted. Incisional biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of epithelioid angiosarcoma. The lesion exhibited aggressive proliferation after biopsy resulting in uncontrolled bleeding and difficulty in closing the mouth. Mandibular segmental resection including the tumor was performed without reconstruction. Because of the aggressive preoperative course of the tumor, the patient received adjuvant chemotherapy. There were no signs of recurrence during a 2-year follow-up period. ConclusionsA review of the literature yielded only four reported cases of epithelioid angiosarcoma in the jaw region, with the lesions occurring in the maxilla in three cases. To our knowledge, this is the second case of primary epithelioid angiosarcoma in the mandible.
Correlation between Level of Autophagy and Amount of CD8+T Cells in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Zhuo Songming , Zhuang Hong , Li Na , Chen Sida , Zhan Wugen , Shen Yan , Xu Xiangqin
Published: July 2020

Background: This study aimed to shed light on the correlation between the amounts of CD8+ T cells and autophagy level in COPD. Results: The objects (n = 90) were divided into three groups: COPD group (patients in the stable phase; n = 30), SN group (healthy control of smoking with normal lung function group; n = 30), and NSN groups (healthy control of non-smoking with normal lung function group; n = 30). The amounts of CD8+ (32.33 ± 4.23%), CD8+ effector (25.63 ± 8.57%) and CD8+memory (11.94 ± 5.77%) T cell in the COPD group were significantly higher those in the other two groups, while the apoptotic rate was lower in the COPD group (P < 0.05). Significant linear correlations were found of P62/GAPDH (‰) with CD8+, CD8+effector, and CD8+ memory- T cell amounts (P<0.001). Conclusions: Autophagy level is positively and linearly associated with the amounts of CD8+ T cells, suggesting that cell autophagy might be involved in COPD pathogenesis.
Hunting for the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein Ancestor
Authors: Flores-Alanis Alejandro , Sandner-Miranda Luisa , Delgado Gabriela , Cravioto Alejandro , Morales-Espinosa Rosario
Published: July 2020

Objective: In December 2019 a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that is causing the current COVID-19 pandemic was identified in Wuhan, China. Many questions have been raised about its origin and adaptation to humans. In the present work we performed a genetic analysis of the Spike glycoprotein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 and other related coronaviruses (CoVs) isolated from different hosts in order to trace the evolutionary history of this protein and the adaptation of SARS-CoV-2 to humans.Results: Based on the sequence analysis of the S gene, we suggest that the origin of SARS-CoV-2 is the result of recombination events between bat and pangolin CoVs. The hybrid SARS-CoV-2 ancestor jumped to humans and has been maintained by natural selection. Although the S protein of RaTG13 bat CoV has a high nucleotide identity with the S protein of SARS-CoV-2, the phylogenetic tree and the haplotype network suggest a non-direct parental relationship between these CoVs. Moreover, it is likely that the basic function of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of S protein was acquired by the SARS-CoV-2 from the MP789 pangolin CoV by recombination and it has been highly conserved.
Nose-only inhalation exposures to alumina nanoparticles / hydrogen chloride gas mixtures induce strong pulmonary pro-inflammatory response
Authors: Bourgois Alexandra , Saurat Dominique , Boyard Alexandre , Guitard Nathalie , Araujo Suzanne De , Renault Sylvie , Fargeau Francisca , Frédéric Christine , Peyret Emmanuel , Flahaut Emmanuel , Servonnet Aurélie , Favier Anne-Laure , Lacroix Ghislaine , François Sabine , Dekali Samir
Published: July 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Correlation study between Interleukin-17 Gene Polymorphisms and risk of development of recurrent aphthous ulcer in Han Chinese Population
Authors: Xiang Haidong , Cheng Dongmei , Guo Han , Wang Yan , Jia Zhiyu , Gao Qi
Published: July 2020

ObjectiveInterleukin-17 (IL-17) is a pleiotropic cytokine which plays important role in the inflammatory diseases.MethodsPolymorphisms of IL-17A rs2275913 and IL17F rs763780 were measured in 125 RAU cases and 116 healthy controls. The polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length was measured. The genotype distribution and disease risk, and its’ relationship with RAU severity was analyzed.ResultsRAU risk were related with polymorphism of IL-17 gene at rs2275913 site after adjusting BMI, sex, age, smoking and drinking status (AA vs. GG: odds ratio (OR), 1.624; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.125–2.250; P = 0.030; A allele vs. G allele: OR, 1.192; P = 0.037; 95% CI, 1.012–1.404;). In addition, the rs763780 variant genotypes (TC and CC) and C allele also have higher relevance to RAU compared with subjects who bears the TT genotype (TC vs. TT, OR: 1.312; P = 0.039; 95% CI: 1.017–1.692; CC vs. TT, OR: 2.812, P = 0.006, 95% CI: 1.338-5.909; C allele Vs. T allele, OR:1.413, P=0.002, 95% CI:1.141-1.751). We also found serum IL-17 levels were greatly higher in RAU patients compared with controls (P = 0.001), and serum IL17 concentration is correlated with IL17 polymorphism.ConclusionOur research showed polymorphisms of IL-17 gene might related to the high-risk of RAU occurrence.
Long-Term Refractive Outcomes After Combined Phacoemulsification and Trabeculectomy in Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Kang Yeon Soo , Sung Mi Sun , Heo Hwan , Ji Yong Sok , Park Sang Woo
Published: July 2020

Background: To investigate long-term refractive outcomes after phacotrabeculectomy and to determine risk factors that may cause unstable refractive outcomes after phacotrabeculectomy in glaucoma patients.Methods: A total 120 eyes of 120 patients who had underwent uncomplicated phacotrabeculectomy (combined group) or phacoemulsification (phaco-only group) were included. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP) were measured before and after surgery, and anterior segment parameters including anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens vault (LV), and anterior vault (AV) measured using anterior-segment optical coherence tomography were compared between the two groups. The mean absolute error (MAE) at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively were compared. Risk factors associated with unstable refractive outcomes (MAE ≥ 0.5) were investigated in the combined group.Results: In both groups, BCVA was improved and IOP was decreased significantly. MAE at 3, 6, 12, 24 months postoperatively were not significantly different between two groups. The risk factors for unstable refractive outcomes after 12 months of phacotrabeculectomy were old age and LV. Whereas, the only factor predicting unstable refractive outcome after 24 months of phacotrabeculectomy was LV. The cut-off value of LV for predicting unstable refractive outcome analyzed by the ROC curve was 0.855 mm.Conclusions: Phacotrabeculectomy may be an effective treatment with predictable long-term refractive outcomes similar to phacoemulsification in patients with glaucoma. However, elderly patients or patients with large LV may be predisposed to unpredictable postoperative refractive outcomes after phacotrabeculectomy.
Evaluation of Transmissible Plasmodium falciparum infection in transfusion medicine
Authors: Amoo Abimbola , Dadaadegbola Hannah , Olaniyi John A. , Omosa-Manyonyi Susan Gloria , Njaanake Humphrey Kariuki
Published: July 2020

INTRODUCTION: In sub-Saharan Africa, Malaria could lead to about 770, 000 death alone this year if COVID-19 disrupts the key strategies, according to a newly available report on WHO modeling analysis. Transfusion medicine infections are mostly prevalent studies on bacteria and viruses with very little or no effort at investigating malaria parasite infection that can cause severe post-transfusion illness, especially in transfusion-dependent patients. OBJECTIVES: This study designed to bridge the gap by screening for Plasmodium falciparum infection and determine the effect of storage duration at 4°C on P. falciparum infection. METHODOLOGY: A Cross-sectional study on blood donors in Ibadan Oyo state, National blood transfusion service centre. Demographic data and clinical history were obtained using a pro-formal questionnaire. Donor's blood samples were P. falciparum positive using Giemsa stained microscopy. RESULTS: A total of 248 blood samples collected from donors from southwest Nigeria were tested for P. falciparum parasites. The overall prevalence of P. falciparum infection using Giemsa microscopy was 8.5%. The prevalence in blood samples stored for 3days, 7 days, and 21 days were 8.1%, 7.3%, and 5.7% respectively. There was a significant decline in the prevalence of P. falciparum, by microscopy, with an increased period of blood storage from day 0 to day 21 (Kendall’s Tau; p< 0.001). CONCLUSION: The present study revealed that P. falciparum is prevalent among blood donors in the Ibadan, Nigeria. Blood storage for about 21 days can significantly reduce the risk of transfusion-transmitted P. falciparum malaria. This can be attributed to the lack of adequate accommodation and poor sanitary conditions in the area under study. National surveillance and public health education should stop the spread of parasitic infections in transfusion medicine.
Perturbation of PI3K/Akt Signalling affected Autophagy Modulation in Dystrophin-Deficient Myoblasts
Authors: Yazid Muhammad Dain , Chen Hung-Chih
Published: July 2020

The absence of dystrophin has gave a massive impact on myotube development in Muscular Dystrophy pathogenesis. One of the conserved signalling pathways involved in skeletal muscle differentiation is the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway that play a vital role in autophagy regulation. To further understand and establish targeted therapy in dystrophin-deficient myoblasts, protein expression profiling has been determined which provides information on perturbed autophagy modulation and activation. In this study, dystrophin-deficient myoblast cell line established from skeletal muscle of dystrophic (mdx) mouse were used as model. The dfd13 (dystrophin-deficient) and C2C12 (non-dystrophic) myoblasts were cultured in low mitogen conditions for 10 days to induce differentiation. The cells were subjected to total protein extraction prior to western blotting assay technique. Protein sub-fractionation has been conducted to determine protein localisation. The live cell analysis of autophagy assay were done using flow cytometer. As results, in our culture system, the dfd13 myoblasts did not achieved terminal differentiation. PTEN expression was profoundly increased in dfd13 myoblasts throughout the differentiation day subsequently imposed perturbation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR regulation. In addition, rictor-mTORC2 was also found inactivated in this event. This occurrence has caused FoxO3 misregulation resulting higher activation of autophagy related genes in dfd13 myoblasts. Autophagosome formation was increased as LC3B-I/II showed accumulation upon differentiation. However, ratio of LC3B lipidation and autophagic flux were shown decreased which exhibited dystrophic features. As a conclusion, perturbation of the PTEN-PI3K/Akt pathway triggers excessive autophagosome formation, and subsequently reduced autophagic flux within dystrophin-deficient myoblasts where this finding are of important to understand DMD patients which fit with the actual scenario. We believe that some manipulation within its regulatory signalling reported in this study could help restore muscle homeostasis and attenuate disease progression.
Oblique lumbar interbody fusion at the L5-S1 segment via an approach between the psoas muscle and the great vessels: technique note and case presentations.
Authors: Li Xigong , Diao Weiyi , Zhang Yuzhu , Wu Junsong , Xing Chunyang , Du Junhua , Chen Bin , Xu Sanzhong
Published: July 2020

Study Design: Technique note.Objectives: To describe our modified oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) technique in the reconstruction of the L5-S1 segment.Summary of Background Data: Recently, OLIF has been generally recognized as an effective procedure in the treatment of various spinal pathologies at L2-L5 segments. However, the usage of OLIF at the L5-S1 segment doesn’t have gained widespread acceptance in spine community. Some authors still concern about the feasibility of OLIF used in lumbosacral fusion Methods: Ten consecutive patients underwent L5-S1 interbody fusion using the OLIF technique in our institution. The L5–S1 disc space is approached via one retroperitoneal oblique corridor between the psoas muscle and the great vessels. The discectomy and endplate preparation are performed through a surgical window developed on the anterolateral side of L5-S1 disc. A secondary cage insertion technique is used for safe placement of interbody fusion cages.Results: Of the 10 patients, 6 were males and 4 were females, with an average age of 55.4±6.8 years. There were 8 single-level and 2 two-level procedures, including 2 at L4–L5 and 10 at L5–S1. Preoperative axial MR images confirmed 1 patient with type I LCIV (left common iliac vein), 6 with type II LCIV and 3 with type III LCIV. The average blood loss was 133.4±88.5 ml, and the average operative times were 153.6±38.3 minutes. Postoperative radiographs examination confirmed all patients obtained a better reconstruction at the lumbosacral junction. Two patients with type III LCIV sustained iliolumbar vein laceration during the exposure, and no other perioperative complications were encountered.Conclusion: Our novel OLIF L5-S1 technique is a more feasible procedure of lumbosacral fusion, which shared the common surgical plane with OLIF L2-5, allowing for L2 to S1 reproducible multi-levels interbody fusions via a retroperitoneal oblique corridor between the psoas muscle and the great vessels. Detailed preoperative plan and meticulous intraoperative manipulation are prerequisite for the success of OLIF L5-S1 procedure.
A Case of Vasitis Nodosa with Biphenotypic Differentiation
Authors: Raju Beth Susan , Heinlen Jonathan , Luo Wenyi
Published: July 2020

Background

Vasitis nodosa is a nodular lesion within the vas deferens that is characterized by a benign glandular proliferation of the vas deferens epithelium mixed with sperm and chronic inflammation. It is considered a reactive condition caused by increased intraluminal pressure. Problems in diagnosis can arise when atypical morphologic features are present or when vasitis nodosa is colonized by metastatic tumors.
Case presentation:

A 25-year old African American male status post vasectomy was diagnosed with obstructive azoospermia and elected to undergo a vasovasostomy. The histology of the resected specimen was consistent with vasitis nodosa, but the proliferative epithelial cells demonstrated the phenotypes of both vas deferens epithelium and mesothelium by immunohistochemistry.
Conclusion

This is the first reported case of vasitis nodosa expressing mesothelial markers, and it may therefore mimic mesothelial tumors such as mesothelioma and adenomatoid tumor.
Establishment of a murine, lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis model for testing anaerobic exercise thresholds and early mobilization
Authors: Matsuishi Yujiro , Shimojo Nobutake , Hoshino Haruhiko , Enomoto Yuki , Mathis Bryan J. , Oh Sechang , Kawano Satoru , Myoenzono Kanae , Maeda Seiji , Shoda Junichi , Inoue Shigeaki , Inoue Yoshiaki
Published: July 2020

Background: Several methods have been proposed to prevent post intensive care syndrome (PICS) after sepsis, including early mobilization, but controversy remains in mechanisms and outcomes. Translational studies are required to fully reveal the optimal exercise intensity during acute phase sepsis. The aim of this study is to establish a septic mouse model and and classify exercise intensi ties during the acute phase of sepsis. Methods: Adult, male C57/B6 mice received lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injections (20mg/kg). We recorded survival rates and metabolic changes, such as resting energy expenditure (REE) compared with controls up to 72h after LPS administration. We also observed vital signs (rectal temperature and weight change) and inflammation (TNF-αand IL-6). We detected exercise intensity via metabolic monitoring treadmill, analyzed the anaerobic threshold (AT) by V-Slope Method and classified the intensity levels according to American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines.Result: Around 30% of the mice survived 72h after LPS induction with REE and rectal temperatures lowest at around 22-24h later (REE at 22h: 2.26±0.34 kcal/day p<0.05 vs. baseline; Rectal temperature at 24h: 29.17±0.48℃, p<0.05 vs. baseline). Gradual recovery was seen out to 72h. Blood concentrations of TNF-α were highest at the 12h timepoint (41.23±24.39 pg/ml, p<0.05 vs. baseline) and IL-6 was highest at 24h after LPS induction (1476.5±274.7 pg/ml, p<0.05 vs. baseline). Using the V‐Slope method, we observed the AT at each timepoint (6h:14m/min,12h: 9m/min, 24h:4m/min,36h:10m/min, 48h:16m/min,60h:20m/min,72h:22m/min) and classified these into very low intensity exercise training (VLIT), low intensity exercise training (LIT), or moderate intensity exercise training (MIT) at each timepoint. Conclusion: We classified exercise intensities out to 72h after sepsis recovery using a mouse model. These data may serve as a bridge to clinical studies to fill gaps in best practice for sepsis rehabilitation.
RNA-binding protein RBM3 negatively regulates innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and lung inflammation
Authors: Badrani Jana , Amadeo Michael , Cavagnero Kellen , Naji Luay , Lund Sean , Leng Anthea , Lecasa Lee , Strohm Allyssa , Kim Hyojoung , Baum Rachel , Khorram Naseem , Mondal Monalisa , Seumois Greggory , Pilotte Julie , Vanderklish Peter , DOHERTY Taylor A
Published: July 2020

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) promote lung inflammation through cytokine production in diseases such as asthma. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are critical post-transcriptional regulators of cellular function, including inflammatory responses, though the role of RBPs in innate lymphoid cells is unknown. Here, we demonstrate that RNA-binding motif 3 (RBM3) is one of the most highly expressed RBPs in Thy1.2 + lung ILCs after fungal allergen challenge and is further induced by epithelial cytokines TSLP and IL-33 in both human and mouse ILCs. Single (rbm3-/-) and double (rbm3-/-rag2-/-) knockout mice exposed via the airway to the asthma-associated fungal allergen Alternaria alternata displayed increases in eosinophilic lung inflammation and ILC activation compared to control mice. In addition to increased Th2 cytokine production, rbm3-/- ILCs produced elevated IL-17A. The negative regulation by RBM3 in ILC responses was direct as purified rbm3-/- ILCs were hyperinflammatory in vitro and in vivo after stimulation with IL-33. Transcriptomic analysis by RNA-sequencing of rbm3-/- lung ILCs showed increased type 2 and 17 cytokines as well as global expression differences in critical cytokines, receptors, transcription factors, and survival transcripts compared with WT ILCs. Intriguingly, these transcript changes did not correlate with the presence of AU-rich elements (AREs), which RBM3 is known to bind. Thus, regulation of ILC responses by RNA-binding proteins offers novel mechanistic insight into lung ILC biology and ILC-driven inflammatory diseases.
High-capacity, transparent and robust blind audio watermarking scheme based DWT and TLBO algorithm
Authors: Joudaki Ali , Abdeyazdan Marjan , Mosleh Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Digital watermarking is one of the best solutions again the copyright infringement, duplicates, verifies data and illegal distribution of digital media. Recently, the protection of digital audio signals is one of the attracting and interesting topics for scientific and researchers. In this paper we propose a blind audio watermarking mechanism in which it has high capacity, transparency and resistance simultaneously based on digital wavelet transform (DWT) algorithm. The key principle of this work is that in the DWT procedure, using two filters; break down the original audio signal into several sub-bands and transform them on a specific frequency range. It should be noted that the 8 bits of watermarked signal is selected and transform to the original signal. In order to increase the watermarking resistance, framing the high frequency coefficients of the third level of the wavelet and calculate the frames average and place them in the frame memory prime. Moreover, TLBO algorithm used to determination of embedding and extraction coefficients in order to increase the SNR ratio in the embedding process and decrease the bit error rate (BER) in the extraction process. This method increases the embedding payload capacity while the audio SNR and extracted image BER have good qualify. Moreover, experimental results shown that this method has 13kbs hiding rate,ascendency imperceptibility, good payload capacity and intense robustness when resisting against various attacks such as MP3 compression, re-quantization, low-pass filtering, amplitude scaling, re-sampling, echo addition and noise corruption.
Diversity of KIR genes and their HLA-C ligands in Ugandan populations with historically varied malaria transmission intensity
Authors: Tukwasibwe Stephen , Traherne James A. , Chazara Olympe , Jayaraman Jyothi , Trowsdale John , Moffett Ashley , Jiang Wei , Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Rek John , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Nsobya Samuel L. , Atuheirwe Maxine , Mubiru Frank , Anguzu Godwin , Jagannathan Prasanna , Cose Stephen , Kamya Moses R. , Dorsey Grant , Rosenthal Philip J. , Colucci Francesco , Nakimuli Annettee
Published: July 2020

Background: Malaria is one of the most serious infectious diseases in the world. The malaria burden is greatly affected by human immunity, and immune responses vary between populations. Genetic diversity in KIR and HLA-C genes, which are important in immunity to infectious diseases, is likely to play a role in this heterogeneity. Several studies have shown that KIR and HLA-C genes influence the immune response to viral infections, but few studies have examined the role of KIR and HLA-C in malaria infection, and these have used low-resolution genotyping. Our aim was to determine whether genetic variation in KIR and their HLA-C ligands differ in Ugandan populations with historically varied malaria transmission intensity using more comprehensive genotyping approaches. Methods: We used high throughput multiplex quantitative real-time PCR method to genotype KIR genetic variants and copy number variation and developed a high-throughput real-time PCR method to genotype HLA-C1 and C2 allotypes for 1,344 participants, aged 6 months to 10 years, enrolled from Ugandan populations with historically high (Tororo District), medium (Jinja District) and low (Kanungu District) malaria transmission intensity. Results: The prevalence of KIR3DS1, KIR2DL5, KIR2DS5 and KIR2DS1 genes was significantly lower in populations from Kanungu compared to Tororo (7.6% vs. 13.2%: p=0.006, 57.2% vs. 66.4%: p=0.005, 33.2% vs. 46.6%: p<0.001 and 19.7% vs. 26.7%: p=0.014 respectively) or Jinja (7.6% vs.18.1%: p<0.001, 57.2% vs. 63.8%: p=0.048, 33.2% vs. 43.5%: p=0.002 and 19.7% vs. 30.4%: p<0.001 respectively). The prevalence of homozygous HLA-C2 was significantly higher in populations from Kanungu (31.6%) compared to Jinja (21.4%), p=0.043, with no significant difference between Kanungu and Tororo (26.7%), p=0.296. Conclusions: The KIR3DS1 , KIR2DL5, KIR2DS5 and KIR2DS1 genes are potentially beneficial in malaria as these genes have been positively selected for in places with historically high malaria transmission intensity. The high-throughput multiplex real-time HLA-C genotyping PCR method we have developed will be useful in disease association studies involving large cohorts.
Geomagnetic secular variation forecast using the NASA GEMS ensemble Kalman fllter: A candidate model for IGRF 2020
Authors: Tangborn Andrew , Kuang Weijia , Sabaka Terence , Yi Ce
Published: July 2020

We have produced a 5 year mean secular variation (SV) of the geomagnetic field for the period 2020-2025. We use the NASA Geomagnetic Ensemble Modeling System (GEMS), which consists of the NASA Goddard geodynamo model and ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) with 512 ensemble members. Geomagnetic field models are used as observations for the assimilation, including gufm1 (1590-1960), CM4 (1961-2000) and CM6 (2001-2019). The forecast involves a bias correction scheme that assumes that the model bias changes on timescales much longer than the forecast period, so that they can be removed by successive forecasts. The algorithm was validated on the time period 2010-2015 by comparing with the 2015 IGRF before being applied to the 2020-2025 time period. This forecast has been submitted as a candidate model for IGRF 2025.
Thyroid metastases from breast carcinoma: case report and review of literature
Authors: Wang Yichao , Zhou Shengliang , Yu Boyang , Zhou Ping , Li Zhihui , Zhu Jingqiang , Wei Tao
Published: July 2020

Rationale: The thyroid is a rare site for distant metastases from breast carcinoma. The incidence of thyroid metastases in fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) was less than 0.2%.Patient concerns: We report a case of 54-year-old woman with a history of breast carcinoma presented with diffuse scattered microcalcifications in thyroid and enlarged bilateral cervical lymph nodes detected on ultrasound (US). Physical examination of the patient revealed stiff and enlarged thyroid lobes.Diagnoses: FNAB and immunohistochemistry （IHC）of the thyroid lesion confirmed the thyroid metastases from breast cancer.Interventions and outcomes: Due to the comorbidities of breast carcinoma metastases to the right axillary, cervical lymph nodes and left chest wall, the patient received chemotherapy. After a follow-up of 10 months, the patient was alive without any new distant metastases.Lessons: Our case highlights that thyroid metastases should be considered in a patient combined with thyroid lesions and a history of breast carcinoma. IHC played an important role in differentiating thyroid metastases from primary thyroid cancer.
Left Ventricular Free Wall Rupture in A Middle-Aged Woman
Authors: Gonçalves Fernando Fonseca , Monteiro João Pedro , Neves Fátima São , Moreira José Ilídio
Published: July 2020

Background: Ventricular free wall rupture is an uncommon but potentially fatal mechanical complication following a myocardial infarction.Case presentation: We report a case of a 51 year-old female admitted in our emergency department in cardiogenic shock, in which echocardiography was fundamental in the diagnosis of a left ventricle free wall rupture with tamponade. In this case, removal of pericardial clots with subsequent hemodynamic improvement and the presence of a strong adhesion between the pericardial layers at the rupture site were sufficient for the short-term surgical treatment. The patient remained stable and was discharged fifteen days later.Conclusions: Although being a rare presentation, this unconventional surgical approach might be useful in this kind of cases.
Clinical characteristics and risk factors for mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 in intensive care unit: a single-center, retrospective, observational study in China
Authors: Sai Fangfang , Liu Xiaolei , Li Lanyu , Ye Yan , Zhu Changqing , Hang Ying , Huang Conghua , Tian Lei , Xu Xinhui , Huang Huan
Published: July 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a potentially life-threatening contagious disease which has spread all over the world. Risk factors for the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 pneumonia in intensive care unit (ICU) have not yet been well determined. Methods: In this retrospective, single-centered, observational study, we consecutively included 47 patients with confirmed COVID-19 who were admitted to the ICU of Leishenshan Hospital in Wuhan, China, from February 24 to April 5, 2020. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were collected and compared between survivors and non-survivors. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the risk factors associated with death in patients of COVID-19.Results: The study cohort included 47 adult patients with a median age of 70.55±12.52 years, and 30 (63.8%) patients were men. Totally 15 (31.9%) patients died. Compared with survivors, non-survivors were more likely to develop septic shock (6 [40%] patients vs 3 [9.4%] patients ), disseminated intravascular coagulation (3 [21.4%] vs 0), and had higher score of APACHE II (25.07±8.03 vs 15.56±5.95), CURB-65 (3[2-4] vs 2[1-3]), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) (7[5-9] vs 3[1-6]), higher level of D-dimer (5.74 [2.32-18] vs 2.05 [1.09-4.00] ) and neutrophil count (9.4[7.68-14.54] vs 5.32[3.85-9.34] ). SOFA score (OR 1.47, 1.01–2.13; p=0.0042) and lymphocyte count (OR 0.02, 0.00–0.86; p=0.042) on admission were independently risk factors for mortality. Patients with higher lymphocyte count (>0.63×109/L) and lower SOFA score ≤4 on admission had a significantly well prognosis than those with lower lymphocyte count (≤0.63×109/L) and higher SOFA score >4 in overall survival.Conclusions: Higher SOFA score and lower lymphocyte count on admission were associated with poor prognosis of patients with COVID-19 in ICU. Lymphocyte count may serve as a promising prognostic biomarker.
A novel surgical approach and technique and short-term clinical efficacy for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures with the combined use of medial anatomical locking plate fixation and minimally invasive lateral locking plate fixation
Authors: Wang Fu , Wang Yan , Dong Jinye , He Yu , Li Lianxin , Liu Fanxiao , Dong Jinlei
Published: July 2020

Background and hypothesis: The typical anterolateral approach is widely used to treat proximal humerus fractures with lateral locking fixation. However, lateral fixation cannot completely avoid medial reduction loss and varus deformity especially in the cases of an unstable medial column. We present a novel medial surgical approach and technique together with a minimally invasive lateral locking plate to fix proximal humerus fractures with an unstable medial column.Materials and Methods: An anatomical study was performed and an anatomical medial locking proximal humerus plate was designed based on the measurement results. Between November 2014 and April 2017, eight cases of proximal humerus fractures with unstable medial columns underwent medial fixation. All surgeries were performed by a single surgeon. Patients were followed clinically and radiographically at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively.Results: There was a safe region located at the medial part of the proximal humerus just beneath the articular surface. An anatomical medial locking proximal humerus plate could be placed in the medial column and did not affect the axillary nerve, blood supply of the humeral head or stability of the shoulder joint. Successful fracture healing was achieved in all 8 cases. The function and range of motion of the shoulder joint were satisfactory 24 months postoperatively, with an average Constant score (CS) of 82.8. No reduction loss (≥ 10 degrees in any direction), screw cutout, nonunion, or deep infection occurred.Conclusions: The combined application of medial anatomical locking plate fixation and minimally invasive lateral locking plate fixation is effective in maintaining operative reduction and preventing varus collapse and implant failure in proximal humerus fractures with an unstable medial column.Level of evidence: Retrospective Study
Diversity and Endogenous Knowledge of Aphrodisiac Plants in South and Central Benin
Authors: Batcho Ismaël Akossibe , Ewédjè Eben-Ezer Baba Kayodé , Yédomonhan Hounnankpon , Adomou Aristide Cossi
Published: July 2020

Background: The use of aphrodisiac plants is a very common and ancient practice in Africa. This study, conducted in central and southern Benin, aimed to document endogenous knowledge related to flora, valorization, promotion and conservation of plants species used for aphrodisiac purposes.Methods: Data were collected using ethnobotanical and market surveys from 134 people followed by observations.Results: A total of 138 aphrodisiac plants species were recorded, including 72 from Center Benin and 20 from South Benin while 46 species were common to both areas. These species belong to 124 genera from 59 families mostly represented by Fabaceae (14.49%), Euphorbiaceae (8.76%), and Poaceae (4.38%). The predominant biological type was Phanerophytes (57.25%). The chorological analysis identified a dominance of Sudano-Guinean (26.09%), Pantropical (24.64%) and Guinea-Congolian species (19.57%). Aphrodisiac plants were used for 220 recipes to treat eight affections from which the common was sexual weakness (88.80%). Roots (33.12%) and leaves (20.13%) were the most used parts. The maceration (44.76%) and oral route (88.11%) were the main galenic form and the main mode of administration, respectively.Conclusion: This flora represents a raw material for subsequent phytochemical characterization to identify new aphrodisiac properties, leading to produce Improved Traditional Medicines against sexual disorders.
Synthesis of Oxadiazole-2-Oxide Derivatives as Potential Drug Candidates for Schistosomiasis Targeted on SjTGR
Authors: sun dequn , Li Gongming , Guo Qingqing , Feng Chao , Chen Huan , Zhao Wenjiao , Li Shu , Hong Yang
Published: July 2020

Background: Schistosomiasis is a chronic parasitic disease that affects the health of millions people worldwide. Developing new drugs to treat schistosomiasis is crucial because of the increasing drug resistant to praziquantel (PZQ), the main drug for schistosomiasis. Oxadiazole-2-oxides have been identified as a potential anti-schistosomiasis reagent targeted to thioredoxin glutathione reductase (TGR).Methods: In this work, one of the oxadiazole-2-oxides derivatives furoxan was used as the lead compound to exploit series of novel furoxan derivatives for studying inhibitory activity against both recombinant Schistosoma japonicumi TGR containing selenium (rSjTGR-Sec) and soluble worm antigen protein (SWAP) containing wild type Schistosoma japonicumi TGR (wtSjTGR) in order to develop new leading compound for schistosomasis. Thirty nine novel derivatives were prepared to test their activity to both rSjTGR-Sec and SWAP containing wtSjTGR. The docking method was used to detect the bind sites between active molecule and SjTGR; The structure-activity relationship (SAR) of these novel furoxan derivatives was preliminarily analyzed.Results: It was founded that several new derivatives such as compounds 6a-6d, 9ab, 9bd, 9be have better activity to rSjTGR-Sec or SWAP containing wtSjTGR than furoxan. Interestingly, all intermediates bearing hydroxy (6a-6d) showed excellent inhibitory activity to both rSjTGR-Sec and SWAP containing wtSjTGR especially, compound 6d with trifluoromethyl on pyridine ring was found to have much higher inhibition to both rSjTGR-Sec (half-maximal inhibitory concentration, IC50,7.5nM) and SWAP containing wtSjTGR (IC50 55.8nM) than furoxan (4µM to SWAP containing wtSjTGR and 5.87µM to rSjTGR-Sec). Additionally, the docking method revealed the matching sites between 6d and Schistosoma japonicumi TGR (SjTGR), which theoretically lends support to inhibitory activity of 6d. Conclusion: The data obtained herein showed preliminarily that 6d with trifluoromethyl on pyridine ring could be a valuable leading compound for further study.
Bioinformatics-based Prediction of the mechanism and targets for BushenjieduDecoction in preventing relapse of acute leukemia
Authors: Sun Weilong , Yang Fujun , Shi Weipeng , Tao Xia , Xi Zhiwei , Liu Yihao , Xu Xinxin , Yang Xiangdong
Published: July 2020

Background: Leukemia is a lethal myeloproliferative disorder, its’ relapse following chemotherapy is the major concern in clinical practice. For a long time, we found that traditional Chinese medicines such as Bushenjiedudecoction (BSJD) have significant effects on delaying relapse. However, the underlying mechanisms are not clear, which limits the clinical application of BSJD decoction. Methods: Therefore, we tried to make some explorations in this study. We isolated mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) after treated them with BSJD for proteomic analysis. And then 109 targets were screened out through analysis of the shared proteins of that affected by BSJD and those related to leukemia. Subsequently, the data were analyzed by GO functions, KEGG pathways, PPI network and topological analysis, and then some nodes were selected for animal experiment. Results: As a result, we demonstrated the effective targets of BSJD on MSC through bioinformatics analysis and explored the potential mechanism of BSJD from its influence on niches.These targets contains Hspb1、Dnmt1、Mmp2、Thbs1、Crebbp、Hmgb1、Acta2、Cdkn1b、Atg7、Tsc2 and Icam1. Afterwards, we confirmed BSJD reduced the gene expression of ICAM-1 through cultured MSC in vitro.Conclusions: We screened the potential targets of BSJD on MSC through proteomics and bioinformatics analysis, and selected some genes for experimental verification. These studies demonstrated the effect of BSJD on MSC. We hope that this research method could provide a new way of systematically studying the effects of traditional Chinese medicine on diseases.
Serum Samples Cannot Be Used for Fluorescence Immunoassay for detection of myocardial infarction triple
Authors: Xu Wanju , Gong Zhonghua , Yan Yan , Lv Shiyu , Wang Jiazheng
Published: July 2020

Background: Whole blood or plasma samples are recommended for use in triple-marker testing of myocardial infarction. Whether serum sample can be used for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction has not been compared and validated.Methods: Whole blood samples and serum samples were detected with CTnI, Mb and CK-MB simultaneously by using immunofluorescence assay method.Results: Both CK-MB and TNI detection results were highly consistent for whole blood samples vs. serum samples. However, when Mb is tested, the positive rate of serum samples is relatively low, and there will be more false negative results, resulting in missed diagnosis.Conlusion: Serum samples cannot be used in replace of whole blood samples for triple-marker testing and diagnosis of myocardial infarction.
Parabolic Trough Collector with Internal Fractal Fins in Receiver to Increase Thermal Performance in Working Fluid
Authors: Palacios Angelica , Amaya Dario , Ramos Olga
Published: July 2020

Concentrated solar power technologies have been studied in recent years as a potential solution for energy production industry , however this kind of systems face different challenges in order to increase thermal performance and efficiency. This paper presents the results of a thermal analysis on a parabolic trough collector with different receivers internal fins configurations, systems were studied in CFD Solidworks® flow simulation software and compared with a traditional parabolic collector with cylindrical receiver. Results shows that the lowest thermal performance was achieved with a cylindrical pipe, instead fractal fins receiver with 5 internal fins achieves a temperature increase of 27% and the best pipe configuration was fractal Descartes with 12 internal pipes which e the cylindrical temperature in 29%.
A prognostic five immune-related long noncoding RNA signature for patients with colon cancer
Authors: Zhao Kankan , Wang Mengchuan , Kang Houlong , Wu Aiguo
Published: July 2020

Background: Our study aimed to identify immune related long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) to serve as potential prognostic indicators and immune therapeutic targets in patients with colon cancer.Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Molecular Signatures Databases (MSigDB) database were used to identify immune related lncRNAs in patients with colon cancer. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis, and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were employed to screen prognostic lncRNAs and construct immune-related multi-lncRNA signature. We used time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve to assess the performance of this signature in colon cancer by calculating the area under the curve (AUC). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis were performed to verify the independence of the prognostic value of this signature in colon cancer.Results: Five immune related lncRNAs (AC025575.2, AL161729.4, ELFN1-AS1, LINC00513, MIR210HG) were found to be significantly associated with overall survival (OS) of patients with colon cancer. Then, we developed a five immune-related lncRNA signature. According to this signature, patients were ranked into a high risk group (n = 208) and a low risk group (n = 209). Kaplan-Meier curve and log-rank method showed that patients in high risk group had worse OS than patients in low risk group (P = 5.5644e-05). AUC for predicting 3 year survival and 5 year survival was 0.776 and 0.762 respectively, which indicated good performance of this signature. Finally, this five immune-related lncRNA signature was demonstrated to be independently associated with prognosis of patients with colon cancer.Conclusion: We developed a five immune-related lncRNA signature as a prognostic biomarker for patients with colon cancer.
Risk factors of pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lei Yunxia , Zhang Xiao , Feng Yuan , Wang Jieying , Luo Riqiang
Published: July 2020

Introduction
: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) symptoms in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients are non-specific and early diagnosis and intervention are challenging. It remains essential to explore risk factors for PAH in SLE patients to identify high risk patients and allow intensive monitoring.
Methods
From January 2010 to December 2018, 84 patients with SLE and PAH and 160 patients with SLE but without PAH were enrolled. Clinical manifestations and laboratory test results were compared between the two groups to identify predictors of PAH. Candidate PAH risk factors were further compared among SLE-PAH patients with different characteristics.
Results
Among collected patient characteristics, Raynaud's phenomenon (OR 2.32, 95% CI: 1.17–4.61), digital vasculitis (OR 4.12, 95% CI: 1.48–11.49), pericardial effusion, pulmonary interstitial lesions, positive anti-U1RNP antibodies, and positive ACA-IgG were associated with significantly higher risk of PAH in SLE patients. Among these candidate risk factors, positive anti-U1RNP antibody was independently associated with severe PAH and more active disease. Digital vasculitis was independently associated with SLE alleviation, while pericardial effusion was associated with SLE deterioration. Pericardial effusion was associated with longer PAH duration.
Discussion
The significant association between studied clinical and laboratory indicators and risk of PAH, PAH and SLE characteristics suggested that these factors can be used to identify patients at higher risk of PAH and adverse outcomes. Close monitoring may be indicated in patients with these risk factors, especially with more than one risk factor.
Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase Inhibitors (PARPi) for Patients With Advanced Breast Cancer: a Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Su YongCheng , Zheng XiaoGang
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Poly(ADP–ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors are new class of drugs that are currently being studied in several malignancies. However, datas about the efficacy and safety of the PARP inhibitors are limited. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) in patients with breast cancer.METHODS: Pubmed/Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and abstracts presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) were searched for articles published from 2000 to June 2018.Summary incidences and the RR, HR with 95% confidence intervals, were calculated by using a random-effects or fixed-effects model.RESULTS: The summary HR indicated PARPi was not associated with OS (HR=0.83, 95%CI 0.66–1.06, Z=1.49, P=0.14), while it could significantly improve PFS ande time to deterioration (TTD) of global health status/quality of life(GHS/QoL) as compared with traditional standard therapy, the HR was 0.60(95%CI 0.50-0.72; Z=5.52, P＜0.00001) and 0.4 (95%CI 0.29–0.54,z=5.80 ,p=0.000),respectively.The RR of grade 3 or more anemia ,fatigue and headache was 3.02 (95% CI, 0.69–13.17;p = 0.14,,I2=90%),0.77 (95%CI, 0.34–1.73;p=0.52,I2=7%) and 1.13 (95% CI,0.30–4.18;p=0.86,I2=0%),respectively.CONCLUSION: The findings of this meta-analysis showed that PARPi has no significant effect on OS, while it could significantly improve in PFS and TTD of GHS/QoL for patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer.Furthermore,our findings also demonstrated that the PARPi treatment is connected with an increased risk of grade 3 or more anemia adverse events.