bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Antigenic Domains and Peptides from VP15 of White Spot Syndrome Virus and their Antiviral Effects in Marsupenaeus Japonicus
Authors: Boonyakida Jirayu , Xu Jian , Satoh Jun , Nakanishi Takafumi , Mekata Toru , Kato Tatsuya , Park Enoch Y.
Published: January 2021

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is one of the most devastating pathogens in penaeid shrimp and can cause massive damage in shrimp aquaculture industries. Previously, the WSSV structural protein VP15 was identified as an antigenic reagent against WSSV infections. In this study, we truncated this protein into VP15(1−25), VP15(26−57), VP15(58−80), and VP15(1−25,58−80). The purified proteins from the E. coli expression system were assayed as potential protective agents in Kuruma shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus) using the prime-and-boost strategy. Among the four truncated constructs, VP15(26−57) provided a significant improvement in the shrimp survival rate after 20 days of viral infection. Subsequently, four peptides (KR11, SR11, SK10, and KK13) from VP15(26−57) were synthesized and applied in an in vivo assay. Our results showed that SR11 could significantly enhance the shrimp survival rate, as determined from the accumulated survival rate. Moreover, a multiligand binding protein with a role in the host immune response and a possible VP15-binding partner, MjgC1qR, from the host M. japonicus were employed to test its binding with the VP15 protein. GST pull-down assays revealed that MjgC1qR binds with VP15, VP15(26−57), and SR11. Taken together, we conclude that SR11 is a determinant antigenic peptide of VP15 conferring antiviral activity against WSSV.
Artificial Intelligence Could Alert for Focal Skeleton/Bone Marrow Uptake in Hodgkin´s Lymphoma Patients Staged With FDG-PET/CT
Authors: Sadik May , López-Urdaneta Jesús , Ulén Johannes , Enqvist Olof , Krupic Armin , Kumar Rajender , Andersson Per-Ola , Trägårdh Elin
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based method for the detection of focal skeleton/bone marrow uptake (BMU) in patients with Hodgkin´s lymphoma (HL) undergoing staging with FDG-PET/CT. The results of the AI in a separate test group were compared to the interpretations of independent physicians. Methods: The skeleton and bone marrow were segmented using a convolutional neural network. The training of AI was based on 153 un-treated patients. Bone uptake significantly higher than the mean BMU was marked as abnormal, and an index, based on the total squared abnormal uptake, was computed to identify the focal uptake. Patients with an index above a predefined threshold were interpreted as having focal uptake. As the test group, 48 un-treated patients who had undergone a staging FDG-PET/CT between 2017-2018 with biopsy-proven HL were retrospectively included. Ten physicians classified the 48 cases regarding focal skeleton/BMU. Results: The majority of the physicians agreed with the AI in 39/48 cases (81%) regarding focal skeleton/bone marrow involvement. Inter-observer agreement between the physicians was moderate, Kappa 0.51 (range 0.25-0.80). Conclusion: An AI-based method can be developed to highlight suspicious focal skeleton/BMU in HL patients staged with FDG-PET/CT. Inter-observer agreement regarding focal BMU is moderate among nuclear medicine physicians.
Independent Variables for Determining the Cumulative Live Birth Rates of Aged Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or Tubal Factor Infertility: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kong Pingping , Xiao Zhiying , Zhang Junyan , He Jingfang , Geng Wenjun , Yan Junfang , Sun Simin , Mu Mingkun , Du Xiaofang , Wang Xingling , Guan Yichun
Published: January 2021

Background: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a higher ovarian reserve and 9 number of oocytes retrieved than women with tubal infertility. To assess whether women of 10 advanced age (≥35 years) with PCOS have the same cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) as their age-11 matched controls with tubal factor infertility and to determine the influencing factors on the CLBRs 12 of aged women. 13 Methods: A total of 190 women of advanced age (≥35 years) with PCOS and 627 women with tubal 14 factor infertility were included in our study. All patients underwent their first fresh cycles and 15 subsequent frozen cycles in our centre from 2007 to 2018. To determine independent influencing 16 factors on the CLBRs of these aged patients, a multivariable Cox regression model of CLBR 17 according to the transfer cycle type was constructed. 18 Results: The Cox regression model of the CLBRs indicated that there was no significant difference 19 between the PCOS group and the tubal infertility group in terms of advanced age (HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 20 0.77~1.20). The CLBR significantly decreased for women of advanced reproductive age up to 37 21 years of age (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.53~0.80). The CLBR increased by 31% when more than ten 22 oocytes were retrieved (HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.08~1.59). In addition to age and the number of oocytes, 23 the addition of recombinant LH was an independent factor that increased the CLBRs of the women of 24 advanced age (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.03~1.53). 25 Conclusions: Despite the higher number of oocytes retrieved in PCOS patients, the reproductive 26 window is not extended for PCOS patients compared with tubal factor infertility patients. Age, the 27 number of oocytes retrieved and supplementation with LH play crucial roles in the CLBRs of 28 patients of advanced age (≥35 years).
Gut Microbiome Couples Gut and Brain During Calorie Restriction in Treating Obesity
Authors: Qiang Zeng , Wang Qi , Xiang Tianyuan , Ou Lei , Wu Xiaoling , Cai Kaiye , Zeng Chunyu , Han Mo , Li Zhongxia , Wang Wen , Yang Tingting , Li Fengyun , Ma Huimin , Zhao Xiaojuan , Na Mi , Gao Hui , Tong Li , Zhang Chi , Wang Linyuan , Yan Bin , Yu Ziya , Lan Canhui , Wang Xiaoning , Yongli Li , Wang Jun , Wang Ziyu
Published: January 2021

Background: Calorie restriction (CR) has been widely recognized for its effect in reducing body weight and alleviating diabetes in humans, as well as prolonging life span in animal studies. Gut microbiome shifts contribute to part of the effects of CR, but little is known regarding their influences except on metabolism and immunity.Methods: We combined the human population-based (metagenomic, metatranscriptomics shotgun sequencing data) and mice-based approaches to revealed microbial determinants that could contribute to successful weight loss.Results: Microbiome changes are linked to changes in blood metabolome and hormones, which eventually correlate to brain functional changes as studied using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Brain functional shifts indicate response of central neural system (CNS) to CR, and microbiome constitutes thekeystone of gut-brain axis. Animal experiment further reaffirms the gut microbiome changes, metabolic and hormonal shifts of CR, while proteomic analysis of brain tissues suggest that epigenetic modifications of key proteins could explain responses of CNS to CR.Conclusion: Our study establishes linkage between CR, gut microbiome, metabolome/ hormones and CNS function, and demonstrates that CR has multi-facet, coordinated effects on the host, of which many could contribute to weight loss and other beneficial effects.
Oral and Intravenous Iron Therapy Differentially Alter The on- and Off-Tumour Microbiota in Anaemic Colorectal Cancer Patients.
Authors: Phipps Oliver , Al-Hassi Hafid Omar , Quraishi Mohammed Nabil , Dickson Edward A , Segal Jonathan , Steed Helen , Kumar Aditi , Acheson Austin G , Beggs Andrew D , Brookes Matthew J
Published: January 2021

Background Iron deficiency anaemia is a common complication of colorectal cancer and may require iron therapy. Oral iron can increase iron available to gut bacteria and may alter the colonic microbiota. We performed an intervention study to compare oral and intravenous iron therapy on the colonic tumour-associated (on-tumour) and paired non-tumour-associated adjacent (off-tumour) microbiota. Anaemic patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma received either oral ferrous sulphate (n=16) or intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (n=24). On- and off-tumour biopsies were obtained post-surgery and microbial profiling was performed using 16S ribosomal RNA analysis.Results Off-tumour α- and β-diversity were significantly different between iron treatment groups. No differences in on-tumour diversity were observed. Off-tumour microbiota of oral iron-treated patients shows higher abundances of the orders Clostridiales, Cytophagales and Anaeroplasmatales compared to intravenous iron-treated patients. The on-tumour microbiota was enriched with the orders Lactobacillales and Alteromonadales in the oral and intravenous iron groups, respectively. The on- and off-tumour microbiota associated with intravenous iron-treated patients infers increased abundances of enzymes involved in iron sequestration and anti-inflammatory/oncogenic metabolite production, compared to oral iron-treated patients. Paired on- and off-tumour microbiota show large taxonomic differences in intravenous iron-treated patients and limited differences in oral iron-treated patients.Conclusion Oral iron shows a large shift in the off-tumour microbiota, but a more limited change in on-tumour microbiota. The on- and off-tumour microbiota in intravenous iron-treated patients infers a microbiota associated with anti-inflammatory and tumour protective pathways. Suggesting intravenous iron may be a more appropriate therapy to limit adverse microbial outcomes, compared to oral iron.Trial registration: NCT01701310. Registered 21 March 2012, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01701310
Identification of a Glycolysis-Related Gene Signature For Survival Prediction of Ovarian Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhang Dai , Yang Si , Li Yiche , Wang Meng , yao Jia , Zheng Yi , Deng Yujiao , Li Na , Wei Bajin , Wu Ying , Zhai Zhen , Dai Zhi-Jun , Kang Huafeng
Published: January 2021

Background: Ovarian cancer (OV) is deemed as the most lethal gynecological cancer in women. The aim of this study was construct an effective gene prognostic model for OV patients.Methods: The expression profiles of glycolysis-related genes (GRGs) and clinical data of patients with OV were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Univariate, multivariate, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analyses were conducted, and a prognostic signature based on GRGs was constructed. The predictive ability of the signature was analyzed in training and test sets.Results: Based on nine GRGs (ISG20, CITED2, PYGB, IRS2, ANGPTL4, TGFBI, LHX9, PC, and DDIT4), a gene risk signature was identified to predict the outcome of patients with OV. The signature showed a good prognostic ability for OV, particularly high-grade OV, in the TCGA dataset, with areas under the curve of 0.709, 0.762, and 0.808 for 3-, 5- and 10-year survival, respectively. Similar results were found in the test sets, and the signature was also an independent prognostic factor. Moreover, a nomogram combining the prediction model and clinical factors was constructed.Conclusion: Our study established a nine-GRG risk model and a nomogram to better perform on OV patients’ survival prediction. The risk model represents a promising and independent prognostic predictor for OV patients. Moreover, our study of GRGs could offer guidance for underlying mechanisms explorations in the future.
Epidemiological profile of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant Mycobacterium Tubrculosis among Congolese patients 
Authors: ASSIANA Darrel ELION , ABDUL Pacôme ACHIMI , LINGUISSI Laure Stella GHOMA , EPOLA Micheska , VOUVOUNGU Jeannhey , MABIALA Albert , Biyogho Christopher , EDOA Jean Ronald , ADEGBITE Bayodé , ADEGNIKA Akim , Elton Linzy , Canseco Julio Ortiz , McHugh Timothy D , AHOMBO Gabriel , Ntoumi Francine
Published: January 2021

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health problem and early detection of drug resistance is crucial to prevent transmission of drug-resistant TB and avoid mortality. There is paucity of data on the prevalence and distribution of MDR-TB at the Republic of Congo. However, the challenges of establishing a robust testing program are significant. In resource limited settings there is a need to gather data to enable prioritization of actions. The objective of this study was to characterize the epidemiological profile of MDR and XDR-TB among presumptive tuberculosis patients referred to Makélékélé hospital in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo.
Methods

We have conducted a cross-sectional study, including a total of 92 patients recruited at the Makélékélé hospital from October 2018 to October 2019. The socio-demographic and clinical data were collected as well as sputum samples. Rifampicin resistance was investigated using Xpert (Cepheid) and second-line TB drugs Susceptibility testing were performed by the Brucker HAIN Line Probe Assay (GenoType MTBDRsl VER 2.0 assay) method.
Results

From the 92 recruited patients, 57 (62%) were found positive for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. The prevalence of rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (RR-TB) was 9.8% (9/92) and importantly 2.2% were pre-XDR/XDR.
Conclusion

This study showed a high rate of rifampicin resistance and the presence of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in the study area in new patients. This study suggests early diagnosis of resistant tuberculosis should be considered using more sensitive diagnostic tools. Rapid molecular diagnostic tools such as GeneXpert need to be installed in health centers for better management of resistant tuberculosis.
Organ Specific Responses to First-line Lenvatinib Plus Anti-PD-1 Antibodies in Patients With Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: a Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Huang Cheng , Zhu Xiao-Dong , Shen Ying-Hao , Wu Dong , Ji Yuan , Ge Ning-Ling , Chen Ling-Li , Tan Chang-Jun , Zhou Jian , Fan Jia , Sun Hui-Chuan
Published: January 2021

BackgroundWe evaluated organ-specific response rates (OSRRs) to first-line lenvatinib plus anti-PD-1 antibodies in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).MethodsThis retrospective analysis included Chinese patients with unresectable/advanced HCC who received first-line lenvatinib (8 mg/day) plus ≥3 infusions of anti-PD-1 antibodies between October 2018 and May 2020. Tumor and macrovascular tumor thrombi (MVTT) treatment responses were evaluated every 2 months using RECIST v1.1. The overall response rate (ORR)/OSRR was defined as the percentage of patients with a best overall response of complete or partial response (CR or PR).ResultsIn total, 60 patients were included in the analysis; 96.7% had measurable intrahepatic lesions, 55% had MVTT and 26.7% had extrahepatic disease. In all 60 patients, the ORR was 33.3%, median progression-free survival was 7.0 months (95% CI, 1.7-12.3) and median overall survival was not reached. The OSRR for MVTT (54.5%) was higher versus intrahepatic tumors (32.8%), extrahepatic lung metastases (37.5%) and lymph node metastases (33.3%). Among 33 patients with intrahepatic tumors and MVTT, 18 had differential responses in each site, including 13 with a better response in MVTT versus intrahepatic lesions. Among 18 patients whose MVTT achieved a radiographic CR or PR, six underwent surgical resection: 4/6 achieved a pathological CR in MVTT and 2/6 in the intrahepatic tumor.ConclusionsFirst-line lenvatinib plus anti-PD-1 antibodies resulted in better tumor responses in MVTT versus intrahepatic lesions. Complete MVTT necrosis may allow downstaging and subsequent eligibility for surgical resection in a proportion of patients with advanced HCC.
High Temperature Metamaterial Enhanced Electromagnetic Absorbing Coating Prepared With Alumina Ceramic 
Authors: Zhao Shixin , Ma Hua , Shao Tengqiang , Wang Jun , Yang Zhaoning , Meng Yueyu , Feng Mingde , Wang Jiafu , Jia Yanmin , Qu Shaobo
Published: January 2021

At present, a series of challenges are impeding the large-scale application of the high temperature radar absorbing coatings (RACs), such as the complex preparation of raw material and the complicated technology of processing. In this paper, a new, thin and high-temperature metamaterial RAC (MRAC) with strong absorption was designed and experimentally demonstrated, composing of a radar absorbing coating and a layer of metamaterial. To avoid the need for the complex preparation of raw materials, pure alumina was selected as the radar absorbing coating. Meanwhile, plasma spraying and screen printing were employed to simplify the manufacture technology to produce the absorbing coating and the metamaterial layer, ensuring its feasibility and practicality. The metamaterial layer was prepared with a high temperature conductive paste and it improved the impedance matching of the coating and regulated the electromagnetic (EM) resonance. With the ability to consume more incident EM waves, excellent absorption performance at high temperature was achieved with relatively small thickness. In the 8 ~ 18 GHz band, the MRAC bandwidth for reflection loss (RL) below -5dB almost covered the frequency of 10 ~18 GHz with a thickness of only 1.5 mm at 800 ℃. This new metamaterial has broad application prospects by the virtue of its simplicity and ease of production.
Genistein Protects Epilepsy-Induced Brain Injury Through Regulating The JAK2/STAT3 and Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathways in The Developing Rats
Authors: Hu Qing-peng , Huang Xiang-yi , Feng Wei , Chen Fen-fang , Yan Hong-xia , Zhang Xin , Zhou Yang -wan
Published: January 2021

Background: Epilepsy is a common chronic neurological disease caused by the over-synchronization of neurons that lead to brain dysfunction. Recurrent seizures or status epilepticus can cause irreversible brain damage. The JAK2-STAT3 signal transduction pathway is stimulated by cytokines and involved in various pathological processes including inflammation, apoptosis and immune regulation in central system diseases. Keap1/Nrf2 is an important anti-oxidative stress pathway, which can reduce the toxic effects of oxygen free radicals and endogenous toxins on neurons. Genistein (Gen) can modulate inflammation and neuronal apoptosis, and may thereby have antiepileptic effects. This study aimed to explore the regulation of Genistein on JAK2/STAT3 and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway and the protective effects on brain injury after epilepsy. Methods: Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) was used to induce epilepsy in developing rats and Genistein was used for pretreatment of epilepsy. The seizure latency, grade scores and duration of the first generalized tonic-clonic seizure (GTCs) were recorded. Hippocampus tissue was sampled at 24 hours post-epilepsy. Immunofluorescence staining was used to observe the number of mature neurons, activated microglia and astrocytes in the hippocampal CA1 region. Western blot and qRT-PCR were used to determine the protein and mRNA levels of p-JAK2, p-STAT3, TNF-α, IL-1β, Keap1, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, caspase3, Bax and Bcl2 in the hippocampus. Results: Immunofluorescence showed that the number of neurons significantly decreased, and activated microglia and astrocytes significantly increased after epilepsy; Western blot and q-PCR showed that the expressions of p-JAK2, p-STAT3, TNF-α, IL-1β, Keap1, caspase3 and Bax significantly increased, while Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 and Bcl-2 were significantly reduced after epilepsy. These effects were reversed by Genistein treatment. Moreover, Genistein was found to prolong seizure latency and reduce seizure intensity score and duration of generalized tonic-clonic seizures(GTCs). Conclusions: Genistein can activate the Keap1/Nrf2 antioxidant stress pathway and attenuate the activation of microglia and astrocytes. Genistein also inhibits the JAK2-STAT3 inflammation pathway and expression of apoptotic proteins, and increases the number of surviving neurons, thus having a protective effect on epilepsy-induced brain damage.
Transcriptomic Profiling Identifies DCBLD2 as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Feng Zengyu , Li Kexian , Shi Minmin , Feng Yeliu , Chen Hao , Wu Yulian , Peng Chenghong
Published: January 2021

Background: Accumulating evidence showed that the elevated expression of DCBLD2 is associated with unfavorable prognosis of various cancers. However, the correlation of DCBLD2 expression value with the diagnosis and prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has not yet been elucidated.Methods: Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to screen robust survival-related genes. Expression pattern of selected genes was investigated in PDAC tissues and normal tissues from multiple cohorts. Kaplan–Meier (K-M) survival curves, ROC curves and calibration curves were employed to assess prognostic performance. The relationship between DCBLD2 expression and immune cell infiltrates was conducted by CIBERSORT software. Biological processes and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were adopted to clarify the potential function of DCBLD2 in PDAC.Results: Univariate analysis, K-M survival curves and calibration curves indicated that DCBLD2 was a robust prognostic factor for PDAC with cross-cohort compatibility. Upregulation of DCBLD2 was observed in dissected PDAC tissues as well as extracellular vesicles from both plasma and serum samples of PDAC patients. Both tissue and extracellular vesicle-encapsulated DCBLD2 expression have significant diagnostic value. Besides, DCBLD2 expression is correlated with infiltrating level of CD8 + T cells and macrophage M2 cells. Functional enrichment revealed that DCBLD2 may be involved in cell motility, angiogenesis, and cancer-associated pathways.Conclusions: Our study systematically analyzed the potential diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic value of DCBLD2 in PDAC. All the findings indicated that DCBLD2 may play a considerably oncogenic role in PDAC with diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic potential. These preliminary results of bioinformatics analyses need to be further validated in more prospective studies.
Prevalence, incidence and molecular characterization of tape worms in Al Taif governorate, KSA and the effectiveness of Spirulina platensis as a biological control in vitro
Authors: Al-Otaibi Bedor O. , Degheidy Nabila S. , Al-Malki Jamila
Published: January 2021

Background
Tapeworms are parasites that infect sheep and cattle and live in the small intestine, causing many problems, including diarrhea and weight loss, which leads to losses in livestock breeding. One of the most common tapeworms that infects sheep, goats and cattle Moniezea expansa, Moniezea benedene, Avitellina centripunctata, Thysaniezia giardia and Stilesia hepatic.
Methods
A total (965) of small intestine were collected from postmortem sheep of slaughter house of Al Taif abattoir during the period from October 2018 to September 2019. The PCR product of cox1 gene (364 bp) was sequenced and then data were aligned with the same fragment of cox1 gene for other related helminths parasites. In vitro determination of the anthelmintic efficacy of Spirulina platensis on adult Moniezia.
Results
The results reported that about 9.94% of selected sheep were infected with tape worms in native breed. Concerning the seasonal incidence of tape worms among sheep, the results revealed that the highest percentage was recorded during winter season (11.3%), while the lowest percentage was recorded during the spring (7.72%). The species of tape worms recorded were Moniezea expansa, Moniezea benedene, Avitellina centripunctata, Thysaniezia giardia and Stilesia hepatic. Molecular characterization of Al Taif Moniezia species cox1 gene records four different species Me Taif1, Me Taif2, Me Taif3 and Me Taif4, that have identity ranged from 90–99% to species in Senegal and Ethiopia (Me13, Me14 and Me22). In vitro treatment of Monizia spp. with different concentrations (10, 20, 30 and 50 µg/ml) of Spirulina platensis extract (Blue-green Algae) affects the morphological architecture of tape worms by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that Spirulina platensis extract treatment, especially for higher doses 30 and 50 µg/ml, caused the sucker opening to narrow as a result of scolex swelling more than usual, deformation of the proglottids occurred with circular areas of declare swelling along their margins and microtriches covering the whole tegument appears in several directions.
Conclusions
As per of our knowledge it is the first time to record new species of Moniezia species in Al Taif governorate and the anthelmintic potential of Spirulina platensis.
Survival Rates and Prognostic Factors of COVID-19 Patients: A Registry-Based Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shahbazi Fatemeh , Karami Manoochehr , Mirzaei Mohammd , Mohamadi Younes
Published: January 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a newly identified coronavirus. Our knowledge about survival rate and prognostic factors of the disease is not established well. This study proposed to estimate the survival function of COVID-19 in western Iran.Methods: This retrospective cohort study was performed in Hamadan province, western Iran. The study included patients that referred to the provincial hospitals during 7 months period from February 20 to September 20, 2020. The follow up of each subject was calculated from the date of onset of respiratory symptoms to the date of death. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from patients’ medical records. Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test, and Cox regression were used for the analysis of the data. Results: The overall 1, 5, 10, 20, 30 and 49-day survival rate were 99.57%, 95.61%, 91.15%, 87.34%, 86.91%, and 86.74% respectively. A significant association was observed between survival time with age, gender, history of traveling to contaminated areas, co-morbidity, malignancies, and chronic diseases, and hospital units.Conclusion: Educational programs and access to healthcare could be implemented as modifiable factors to reduce the mortality rate and burden of this disease in COVID-19 patients.
Comparison of Dietary Acid Load Score Between Celiac Patients and Healthy Population
Authors: Nikniaz Zeinab , Mahdavi Reza , Sabbagh Mojgan Akhavan , Nikniaz Leila , Shirmohammadi Masood
Published: January 2021

Background: In the present study, we assessed the dietary acid load in adult celiac patients and compare it with that of the healthy population to provide more specific dietary recommendations for celiac patients. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study that includes 130 celiac patients and 462 Non-celiac population. The 80-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to obtain dietary data. Based on dietary data, the dietary acid load (DAL), Potential renal net acid load (PRAL), and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) were calculated. Results: The mean PRAL value is negative in the celiac group and it was positive in the general population. There was a significant difference in the PRAL score between celiac patients and the general population (p<0.001). The mean NEAP and DAL score were significantly lower in the celiac group compared with the healthy population (P<0.001). There were no significant differences between gluten-free diet adherents and non-adherents regarding the PRAL, NEAP, and DAL values (P>0.05). Conclusion: We showed that the patients with celiac disease had significantly less acidogenic diet compared with that of the general population. Considering the health benefits of a less acidogenic diet, following a gluten-free diet, could have added value to celiac patients and besides the elimination of symptoms, it could also prevent other complications in these patients.
Association of RYR2 Mutation with Tumor Mutation Burden, Prognosis and Antitumor Immunity in Patients with Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Zaoqu , Liu Long , Guo Chunguang , Wang Libo , Li Zhaonan , Jiao Dechao , Sun Zhenqiang , Han Xinwei
Published: January 2021

BackgroundEsophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and demonstrates a predominant rising incidence in Western countries. Recently, immunotherapy has dramatically changed the landscape of treatment for many advanced cancers, the benefit in EAC thus far been limited to a small fraction of patients. MethodsUsing somatic mutations data of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC), we delineated somatic mutation landscape of EAC patients from US and England. Bioinformatics algorithms were utilized to perform function annotation, immune cell infiltration analysis, and immunotherapy response assessment.ResultsWe found that RYR2 was a common frequently mutated gene (FMG) in both cohorts, and patients with RYR2 mutation suggested higher tumor mutation burden (TMB), better prognosis, and superior expression of immune checkpoints. Moreover, RYR2 mutation upregulated the signaling pathways implicated in immune response and enhanced antitumor immunity in EAC. Multiple bioinformatics algorithms for assessing immunotherapy response demonstrated that patients with RYR2 mutation might benefit more from immunotherapy. In order to provide additional reference for antitumor therapy of different RYR2 status, we identified nine latent antitumor drugs associated with RYR2 status in EAC. ConclusionsThis study reveals a novel gene whose mutation could be served as a potential biomarker for prognosis, TMB, and immunotherapy of EAC patients.
Efficacy of an Inexpensive Regimen Containing Pasiniazine for Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis with Low-concentration resistance to Isoniazid: a prospective cohort study in a high Tuberculosis burden area
Authors: Sun Wenwen , Tang Qin , Wang Jie , Yang Jinghui , Yu Fangyou , Yang Hua , Fan Lin
Published: January 2021

BackgroundTo verify the efficacy and safety of an inexpensive regimen for specific multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) based on Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) Drug sensitivity test(DST), a prospective cohort study was conducted in China.MethodsMDR-TB cases were prospectively enrolled through a clinical access programmes with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, given the regimen and followed up, observed the treatment outcome and adverse effects (AEs) .ResultsA total of 114 patients were enrolled into the study. The overall treatment favorable rate was 79.8% (91/114), among 91 cases with favorable treatment, 86(75.4%)cured and 5 (4.4%) completed treatment. 23 cases got unfavorable outcome including 10 8.8% (10/114) failures, 8.8%(10/114) losing follow up ,0.9%(1/114) withdrawing treatment due to intolerance to drugs and 1.8%(2/114 ) died,respectively. Treatment favorable rate was significantly higher in newly treated MDR-TB (91.7%, 33/36) than that in retreated MDR-TB (74.4%, 58/78, p = 0.03). The investigators recorded 42 AEs occurrences in 30 of 114 patients༈26.3%). Clinicians rated most AEs as mild or moderate (95.24%, 40/42) and no one was caused by Pa༈0%,0/114).ConclusionsThe regimen was proved to be effective, safe and inexpensive. It is suitable for specific drug resistant population in China, especially for newly-treated patients, which could be expected to be developed into a short-course therapy.Clinical Trials Registration: China Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR- OPC-16009380
Self-Efficacy on the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Dadfar Mahboubeh , Sanadgol Siyamak
Published: January 2021

BackgroundNowadays, COVID-19 constitutes a significant portion of the global burden of the diseases. Self-efficacy beliefs in disease management refer to individuals' confidence and certainty in their ability to successfully perform specific health-related behaviors. The aims of the study were: (i) to develop the COVID-19 Self-Efficacy Scale (COVID-19SES), and (ii) to investigate the impact of self-efficacy on COVID-19.MethodsThis was a descriptive cross-sectional study. A convenience sample of 66 medical students was recruited. The COVID-19SES was administered to the students.ResultsOnly 9 students (13.6%) chose statement 1 of the COVID-19SES, indicating a lack of knowledge and low self-efficacy; 9 students (22.73%) chose statements 3 and 4, indicating adequate knowledge but low self-efficacy. Of the students, 42 (63.6%) endorsed the statement 5, indicating adequate knowledge and high self-efficacy. Only 9 students (13.6%) chose statement 1 of the COVID-19SES, indicating a lack of knowledge and low self-efficacy; 9 students (22.73%) chose statements 3 and 4, indicating adequate knowledge but low self-efficacy. Of the students, 42 (63.6%) endorsed the statement 5, indicating adequate knowledge and high self-efficacy. ConclusionsThis study provides evidence for the usefulness of the COVID-19SES for assessing self-efficacy in students. Twenty-four students (36.4%) reported low COVID-19 self-efficacy, and education is necessary to promote self-efficacy in health-related matters during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Morphological and genetic diversity of traditional varieties of agave in Hidalgo State, Mexico
Authors: Figueredo-Urbina Carmen Julia , Álvarez-Ríos Gonzalo D. , García-Montes Mario Adolfo , Octavio-Aguilar Pablo
Published: January 2021

Background: The agaves are plants of cultural importance that have been used by humans for about 10,000 years for about 40 specific uses, of which the most culturally and economically important are fermented (Pulque) and distilled beverages (Mescal). Pulque continues to be produced in nearly all of Mexico, and the agaves used for this propose have shown domestication syndrome and selected morphological characteristics, such as larger plant size (since size is positively related to sap production) and less dentition of the leaves.Methods: In this study, we carry out an ethnobotanical, morphological and genetic analysis of the traditional varieties of pulque agave used in the production of aguamiel (agave sap) and pulque in two localities of the state of Hidalgo. We did semi-structured interviews and tours with crop owners, tlachiqueros (sap harvesters), and people related to the production system. We analyzed the morphology of 111 plants, and we studied the diversity and genetic structure of 130 individuals using 16 nuclear microsatellites.Results: We found wild, tolerated, transplanted, and cultivated varieties of agave. Asexual reproduction was the main method of propagation. We recorded 19 traditional varieties of pulque agave, 12 of them in production during the study, which correspond to the species Agave americana, A. salmiana y A. mapisaga with five intraspecific entities. The varieties were grouped according to a management gradient; the wild varieties were the smallest, with more lateral teeth and a larger terminal spine. The cultivated varieties clearly exhibited domestication syndrome, with larger plants and smaller dentition. The expected heterozygosity (He) of the varieties ranged between 0.204 to 0.721. Bayesian clustering suggested the existence of three genetic groups (K = 3), both at the level of traditional varieties of pulque agaves and for management categories, a result that matches multivariate clustering.Conclusions: Pulque producers in the studied localities, maintain high agrobiodiversity. The cultivated varieties exhibit domestication syndrome, as has been reported for other species of the genus with the same selection purposes. Our results support the hypothesis of a decrease in genetic diversity in crops compared to wild agaves, which seems to be due to vegetative propagation, among other factors.
Differential Expression Gene/Protein Contribute to Heat Stress-Responsive in Tetraena propinqua in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alafari Hayat Ali , Abdelgawad Magda
Published: January 2021

BackgroundWithin their natural habitat, plants are subjected to abiotic stresses that include heat stress. In the current study, the effect of 4h, 24h and 48h of heat stress on Tetraena propinqua ssp. migahidii seedling’s protein profile and proteomic analyses were investigated. ResultsTotal soluble protein SDS-PAGE profile showed 18-protein bands downregulated at 4h and 48h, however, 20-protein bands were upregulated at 24h of heat stress. A proteomic analysis showed that 81 and 59 targets are involved in gene and protein expression respectively. ConclusionsThe genes and proteins involved in transcription, translation, photosynthesis, transport and other unknown metabolic processes, were differentially expressed under treatments of heat stress. These ﬁndings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms related to heat stress, in addition to its inﬂuence on the physiological traits of T. propinqua seedlings. Heat stress mediated differential regulation genes indicate a role in development and stress response of T. propinqua. The candidate dual specificity genes identified in this study paves way for more molecular analysis of up- and down-regulation.
The Pathological Features of Leukaemic Cells Infiltrating Renal Interstitium in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma Within 10 Years in a Large Single Chinese Centre
Authors: Wang Hui , Yu Xiaojuan , Zhang Xu , Wang Suxia , Zhao Minghui
Published: January 2021

Background Chronic lymphocytic leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (CLL/SLL) was rare in Asians and patients with CLL/SLL rarely undergo kidney biopsy. Little information is available on the histopathological features and clinical relevance of CLL/SLL tubulointerstitial injury. Hence, we attempted to describe the clinical characteristics, renal pathology and clinical outcome of a well characterized population of CLL/SLL patients with CLL infiltration in renal interstitium from a large single center in China.Methods Between January 1st, 2010 to September 31st, 2020, 31946 reanl biopsy pathology were performed at Peking University First Hospital and 10 patients with CLL infiltration in renal interstitium were included. Complete clinical data were collected from these 10 patients and the renal specimens were examined by routine light microscopy, immunonuorescence and electron microscopy examination.Results The extent of infiltrating CLL cells was diverse between different patients, from 10% to 90%. Five patients presented interstitial infiltration with the percent of infiltrate CLL cells≥50%. Proliferation centers were formed in the renal interstitium of 6 patients (6/10, 60%). Intrestingly, we found three patients (3/10, 30%) expressed monoclonal immunoglobulin in infiltrating CLL cells and special crystal structures were found in these cells in two of the three patients for the first time. Conclusions The finding confirmed CLL cells infiltrating in renal interstitium can secret monoclonal immunoglobulins directly, indicating that CLL cells in renal interstitium probably directly involved in local lesion injurys by secrecting monoclonal immunoglobulin. This finding will help understanding the mechanism of renal injury with CLL infiltration, thereby improving our current therapeutic efforts.
Evaluation of vEvaluation of Various Seed Extracts for Their Nematicidal Efficacies Against Root Nematode, Meloidogyne Incognitaarious Seed Extracts for Their Nematicidal Efficacies Against Root Nematode, Meloidogyne Incognita
Authors: Nengroo Zubair , Shah Zeeshan , Ganie Aadil , Danish Mohammad
Published: January 2021

Nematicidal activity of seed extracts of eight medicinally important plants viz. Abrus precatorius Linn., Amaranthus virdis Linn., Bunium persicum Boiss., Dioscorea deltoidea Wall. Ex Griseb., Teraxacum officinale Weber., Malva neglecta Wall., Podophylum hexandrum Royle and Robina pseudoacacia Linn. against Meloidogyne incognita was evaluated in vitro at (24, 48 and 72 h) and greenhouse method. After 48 h of exposure, the in vitro results of second stage juveniles (J2s) displayed almost all extracts possess positive effects on J2 mortality. However, dominant mortality was observed by T. officinale 93.67% and B. persicum 89.66% at 72 h exposure. In case of greenhouse effect extracts of T. officinale and B. persicum reduced infestation as compared to inoculated control. The root knot index varied between 1-3 and egg mass index 0-3 as compared to control. This study suggested that seed extracts of these plants can be used for the management of M. incognita and could be used in replacement of synthetic nematicides.
Synthesis and Characterization of Boron, Copper, and Zinc-Doped Hydroxyapatite by Sol-Gel Method: Research of Absorption and Thermal Behavior
Authors: Çanakçı Dilek
Published: January 2021

In this study, hydroxyapatites reinforced with Boron, Copper and Zinc at different rates were produced using the sol-gel method. Different amounts of metal during the production of hydroxyapatite were used to observe the amount of crystallization and morphological differences in their structures. The characterization of the metal-doped HAp was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The data indicated that the Ca/P stoichiometric ratios of the samples varied between 1.71 and 2, so their morphologies were different from each other. The absorption behavior of novel metal-doped HAp samples was evaluated at room temperature by UV-vis spectroscopy. In the absorption spectra of the samples, absorption bands formed in similar regions. In addition, the thermal behavior of HAp samples was investigated using TG/DTA techniques. The results of the analysis showed that heat resistance of the new synthesized samples was quite high.
Assessment of First-Aid Knowledge Among Medical Students in Syria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aljarad Ziad , Ataya Jawdat , Ataya Jamal
Published: January 2021

Background: Sufficient knowledge required to deal with emergencies at the accident site may not be found in most medical students due to the lack of effective first-aid training in most medical education curricula. This study aims to assess and evaluate the level of knowledge among medical students in providing first-aid care, especially first-year students.Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2020 among 1,855 medical students. The data was collected using an electronic questionnaire that was published on social media platforms. Based on the scores obtained for each clinical scenario requiring first aid, general knowledge was classified as good, intermediate, or weak. in order to obtain the best result, a number of measures were taken.Results: Statistical analysis indicated that Academic year and Academic specialization have a significant effect on the level of knowledge, whereas demographic background (gender, university, marital status, housing status, work status, financial condition), reading, hearing, or receiving training in first-aid have no effect on it.Conclusion: The level of knowledge among Syrian medical students in providing first-aid care is somewhat limited. Therefore, first-aid courses should be made more accessible to these students, and their effectiveness should be ensured and maintained through frequent updates. Moreover, more attention should be placed on publicizing first-aid knowledge in a way that makes life-saving procedures attainable to anyone, anytime and anywhere.
Yttrium-90 Quantitative Phantom Study Using Digital Photon Counting PET
Authors: Labour Joey , Boissard Philippe , Baudier Thomas , Khayi Fouzi , Kryza David , Durebex Pascale Veyrat , Martino Sandrine Parisse-Di , Mognetti Thomas , Sarrut David , Badel Jean-Noël
Published: January 2021

Background: PET imaging of 90Y-microspheres distribution following radioembolisation is a challenging task due to the count-starved statistics from the low branching ratio producing e+/e- pairs during 90Y decay. The recent PET systems using silicon photo-multipliers technology has shown better 90Y image quality compared to photo-multiplier tubes. The aim of the present study was to quantitatively evaluate the impact of 90Y imaging conditions and reconstruction parameters on the dosimetry calculations using a digital photon counting PET.Methods: Quantitative PET and dosimetry accuracy were evaluated using two uniform cylindrical phantoms specific for PET calibration validation. A body phantom with an 9:1 hot sphere-to-background ratio was scanned at different activity concentrations of 90Y. Reconstructions were performed using OSEM algorithm with varying parameters. Time-of-flight and point-spread function modellings were included in all reconstructions. Absorbed dose calculations were carried out using Voxel S-Values convolution and were compared to reference Monte Carlo simulations. Dose-volume histograms and root-mean-square deviations were used to evaluate reconstruction parameter sets. Thanks to listmode data, datasets for phantoms and patients were rebinned into varying lengths of time to assess the influence of acquisition duration on the calculation of absorbed dose. Results: A 2 mm full width at half maximum post-reconstruction Gaussian filter size can be used for image reconstruction, keeping the same accuracy as when no filter is applied for dosimetry purposes and reducing noise. Larger filter sizes should not be used. An acquisition duration of more than 10 min/bed reduces image noise but has no significant impact in the quantification of phantom and patient data for the digital photon counting PET. 3 iterations with 10 subsets was found suitable for large spheres whereas 1 iteration with 30 subsets could improve dosimetry for smaller spheres. Conclusion: The choice of iterations and subsets combination depends on the size of the spheres. However, one should be careful on this choice, depending on the imaging conditions and setup. This study can be useful in this choice for future studies for more accurate 90Y post-dosimetry using a digital photon counting PET.
WITHDRAWN: Serum Nickel Levels Compromise the Oxidative Status and Lung Functions in Ceramic Workers.
Authors: Jabbar Uzma , Mushtaq Mazhar , Qureshi Javed Anver
Published: January 2021

BackgroundNickel, in the form of various alloys and compounds, has been in widespread commercial use for over 100 years. Several million workers worldwide are exposed to airborne fumes, dust, and mist containing nickel and its compounds. Further, exposures by inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact occur in nickel-producing industries, like mining, milling, melting, and refining, and in nickel-using industries, like electroplating, welding, and grinding. Insoluble nickel is the predominant exposure in nickel-producing industries, whereas soluble nickel is the predominant exposure in nickel-using industries like the ceramics industry. This study was designed to extrapolate the levels of serum nickel, antioxidant compounds, and stress markers and correlate them with lung function status in craft workers in the ceramics industryMethods The study included 50 fiber craft workers from the ceramics industry who met the inclusion criteria. The control group consisted of subjects from the general population with no disease. Blood samples from the workers were collected by a phlebotomist. The levels of nickel and biological antioxidants, i.e. serum glutathione (GSH) and stress marker malondialdehye (MDA), were determined. Estimation of oxidants and haptoglobin (Hp) levels were assessed. The level of nickel was measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. A spirometer was used to measure lung functions. The calculated levels of these parameters were compared with those in the control subjects.ResultAn overall increase in nickel and MDA levels and a decrease in GSH level were observed. When these workers were classified into groups, it was observed that prolonged employment in the ceramics industry was associated with an increased nickel concentration in the serum, which in turn increased oxidative stress biomarkers and thus decreased the antioxidant levels to the lower limit. The decrease in GSH level compromises lung function. Our findings of an increase the Hp level is noteworthy, as it increased by 89% in the group with over 10 years of service in the industry compared with the group working for less than 5 years. ConclusionDaily exposure to nickel for prolonged periods could result in fatal respiratory disease. Precautionary measures should be made mandatory in all industries.