bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum IgE in the Clinical Features and Disease Outcome of IgG4-related Disease: A Large Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhou Jiaxin , Peng Yu , Peng Linyi , Wu Di , Li Jing , Jiang Nan , Li Jieqiong , Lu Hui , Liu Zheng , Luo Xuan , Teng Fei , Fei Yunyun , Zhang Wen , Zhao Yan , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: July 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of serum IgE level in the clinical features and outcome of IgG-4 related disease (IgG4-RD). Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 459 newly diagnosed IgG4-RD patients with serum IgE examined at baseline from 2012 to 2019, and compared the clinical features between high IgE group (Serum IgE level>60KU/L) and normal IgE group (Serum IgE level≤60KU/L) patients. Then 312 patients who have been followed up for ≥ 1 year were further selected to evaluate the correlation of serum IgE level and disease outcome. Results: At baseline, Serum IgE level was positively correlated with serum IgG4 level (r=0.1779, P=0.0001), eosinophil count (r=0.3004, P<0.0001), serum IgG level (r=0.2189, P<0.0001) in IgG4-RD patients. Compared with normal IgE group patients, high IgE group patients had more patients with allergy disease (P=0.004), more organ involvements (P=0.003), and higher IgG4-RD RI scores (P=0.002). During follow-up, normal IgE group patients had higher remission induction rate than high IgE group patients (88.4% vs. 73.6%, P=0.035), while high IgE group patients had more relapse rate compared with normal IgE group patients (29.0% vs. 16.2%, P=0.039), and relapsed patients had higher serum IgE level at baseline (P=0.046). Cox regression analysis showed that elevation of the eosinophil count was the risk factors of relapse for both normal and high IgE groups patients (HR 8.504 (1.071-42.511), P=0.009; HR 2.078 (1.277-3.380), P=0.003), and the involvement of lacrimal gland (HR 1.756 (1.108-2.782), P=0.017), submandibular gland (HR 1.654 (1.037-2.639), P=0.035), kidney (HR 3.413 (1.076-10.831), P=0.037) were also the risk factors of relapse for high IgE group patients.Conclusion: IgG4-RD patients with high serum IgE level at baseline were more likely to have higher disease activity, and baseline high IgE level were associated with disease relapse.
Determinants of Physicians’ Intention to Use Clinical Practice Guidelines on Antimicrobial at Tertiary General Hospitals in China
Authors: Deng Qingwen , Liu Wenbin
Published: July 2020

Background: Inappropriate use of antimicrobial has resulted in some great public health concerns, such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Although the effects of clinical guidelines in standardizing clinical practice, controlling costs and reducing medical risks have been proved, the CPGs on antimicrobial hasn’t been widely applied in China yet. Furthermore, the influencing mechanism for the intention to the use of CPGs on antimicrobial remains largely unknown. Methods: By summarizing the relevant literature, the research model and self-administered questionnaire were developed. A national cross-sectional survey was conducted among physicians at tertiary general hospitals in the eastern, central, and western parts of China. Results: A total of 644 valid questionnaires were collected. The results of reliability and validity analysis showed the questionnaire was acceptable. The analyses of structural equation modeling (SEM) showed the proposed model fitted the data well with favorable values of fit indices. SEM results also revealed that seven determinants influence the intention to the use of CPGs on antimicrobial, including attitude (ATT), subjective norm (SN), perceived risk (PR), relative advantage (RA), ease of use (EOU), top management support (TMS) and organization & implementation (OI). Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed the significance of multifaceted factors to enhance the intention to use CPGs on antimicrobial. These findings will not only contribute to the development of targeted intervention strategies on promoting the use of CPGs on antimicrobial, but also provide insights for future studies about physicians’ adoption behaviors on certain health services or products.
Effect Of Dietary Concentrate And Bypass Fat Supplements On In Vitro Rumen Fermentation, Digestibility And Rumen Microbial Population In Buffaloes
Authors: AZMI AMIRUL FAIZ MOHD , Hafandi A. , Goh Y. M. , SAAD MOHD ZAMRI , Md A. B. , Norafizah A. R. , Tan C. K. , Punimin A. , HASSIM HASLIZA ABU
Published: July 2020

Background: The effect of Brachiaria decumbens supplemented with concentrate and bypass fat ratio 100, 70:30, 70:15:15 (w/w) on nutritional composition, in vitro rumen fermentation and microbial population in Murrah cross and Swamp buffaloes were investigated. Incubation were conducted using rumen fluid obtained from the breed of each buffalo which were fed the same based diet (100% Brachiaria decumbens). For the in vitro fermentation characteristic after 48h incubation, total gas production, pH, total volatile fatty acid (TVFA), apparent rumen degradable carbohydrate (ARDC), methane (CH4) and ammonia (NH 3) were determined. The molecular technique also was used to quantify rumen total bacteria, total protozoa, total methanogens, Fibrobacter succinogens and Ruminococcus albus.Results: The results revealed Diet C showed significantly highest in dry matter, crude fat, metabolized energy and optimum in crude protein and carbohydrate value while lower in crude fiber as compared to Diet B and Diet A (P<0.05). In both breed were showed parameters of gas production, total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) and its proportion, and total microbial population were increased parallelly with the increase of 30% concentrate levels in Diet B, while Diet C was moderate with the presence of 4% bypass fat and 26% of concentrate (P<0.05). The methane concentration as well the total methanogens population increased significantly (P<0.05) in Diet B when compared among other diets, but no significant difference was found when comparing between buffalo species. Meanwhile, pH value was slightly decreased with the dietary supplementation in both breeds, but the population of cellulolytic bacteria was not affected.Conclusions: This study showed that dietary concentrate and bypass fat supplementation had improved nutritional composition, in vitro fermentation characteristics by increasing VFA concentration, altering total microbial population, and potentially used as new diet for buffaloes in Malaysia.
The Prognostic Value of Modified Glasgow Prognostic Score in Pancreatic Cancer: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Huan , Ren Dianyun , Jin Xin , Wu Heshui
Published: July 2020

Background: Several studies were conducted to explore the prognostic value of modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) in pancreatic cancer, which reported contradictory results. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to summarize the prognostic value of mGPS in pancreatic cancer by investigating the correlation between mGPS and overall survival (OS). Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane library databases and OVID to identify eligible studies published from Jan 1, 2011 to June 20, 2020. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to detect the prognostic significance of mGPS in patients with pancreatic cancer. Results: A total of 222 non-repetitive studies were identified, and 20 enrolled studies described the association between survival outcomes and mGPS in pancreatic cancer patients. The results showed a significant correlation between high mGPS and poor OS (HR=1.50, 95% CI=1.20–1.89, P<0.0001). Similar results were observed in the subgroup analyses of OS, which were based on the treatment regimen and research region. Conclusions: Our study suggested the close association between the poor prognosis and high level of mGPS, which will be helpful for future clinical applications in pancreatic cancer patients.
Associations of Household Solid Fuel for Heating and Cooking With Hypertension in Chinese Adults
Authors: Liu Zhiguang , Hystad Perry , Yin Lu , Rangarajan Sumathy , Lu Fanghong , Hu Bo , Zhou Yihong , Bangdiwala Shrikant I , Li Yindong , Wang Yang , Yusuf Salim , Li Wei , Tse Lap Ah
Published: July 2020

Background: Few studies have examined the association between indoor air pollution from household solid fuel use for heating and cooking with hypertension considering the influence of outdoor particles with aerodynamic diameter < 2.5 μm. The aim of this study is to investigate the association of household solid fuel for heating and cooking with hypertension prevalence in a large diverse Chinese population.Methods: 44,007 individuals aged 35-70 years with complete information on fuels used for cooking and heating and PM2.5 air pollution levels for 279 urban and rural communities of 12 centers were recruited in this study. Generalized linear mixed models using community as the random effect were performed to estimate the association with hypertension prevalence and blood pressure after considering ambient PM2.5 and a comprehensive set of potential confounding factors at the individual and household level. Results: 47.6% and 61.2% of participants used household solid fuel for heating and cooking, respectively. Solid fuel for heating was associated with statistically insignificant increase in hypertension prevalence (adjusted OR=1.08, 95% CI: 0.98, 1.20) or elevated systolic blood pressure (0.62mmHg, 95% CI: -0.24, 1.48). No association was found between solid fuel for cooking and hypertension or blood pressure, and no additional risk was observed among participants who had the combined exposure to both solid fuels for heating and cooking compared with those using household solid heating fuel only.Conclusion: No statistical significant association between the use of solid fuel for cooking or heating with BP or prevalence of hypertension was found in this large and diverse Chinese population.
A Classroom-Based Study on the Antecedents of Epistemic Curiosity in L2 Learning
Authors: Nakamura Sachiko , Darasawang Pornapit , Reinders Hayo
Published: July 2020

Epistemic curiosity is an emotion described as a desire for knowledge. While research in educational fields has increasingly highlighted the important role that epistemic curiosity plays in learning, there is little empirical evidence to help understand this emotion in the L2 learning context. This classroom-based study investigated the antecedents of epistemic curiosity among 25 Thai university students studying in an English oral communication course. Using a whole-class survey and focus group interview, we recursively asked the students to describe a time in class when they experienced epistemic curiosity and the reasons behind it. A modified version of constant comparative analysis suggested six thematic factors as the antecedents of epistemic curiosity, three groups of underlying desires behind its manifestation, and positive affect linked to its experience. It also emerged from the analysis that certain types of classroom activities were associated with epistemic curiosity. Utilizing descriptions of the lessons kept in the teacher's record, we provide contextualized accounts of how and why the students experienced epistemic curiosity in class. We conclude by offering pedagogical suggestions for creating learning environments that inspire L2 learners’ epistemic curiosity.
Implementing a Digital Mental Health Intervention for Individuals With Psychosis - A Multi-country Qualitative Study
Authors: Pemovska Tamara , Arënliu Aliriza , Konjufca Jon , Uka Fitim , Hunter Jennifer , Bajraktarov Stojan , Stevović Lidija Injac , Jerotić Stefan , Kulenović Alma Džubur , Novotni Antoni , Novotni Ljubisha , Radojičić Tamara , Repišti Selman , Ribić Emina , Ristić Ivan , Mešević Eldina Smajić , Zebić Mirjana , Jovanović Nikolina
Published: July 2020

Background: Implementation of psychosocial interventions in mental health services has the potential to improve the treatment of psychosis spectrum disorders (PSD) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where care is predominantly focused on pharmacotherapy. The first step is to understand the views of key stakeholders. We conducted a multi-language qualitative study to explore the contextual barriers and facilitators to implementation of a cost-effective, digital psychosocial intervention, called DIALOG+, for treating PSD. DIALOG+ builds on existing clinician-patient relationships without requiring development of new services, making it well-fitting for healthcare systems with scarce resources.Methods: The focus group study included 174 participants (patients, clinicians, policymakers and carers), who were familiarized with DIALOG+ through a presentation. The Southeast European LMICs included in this research were: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo[1], North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. Framework analysis was used to analyse the participants’ accounts.Results: Six major themes were identified. Three themes (Intervention characteristics; Carers’ involvement; Patient and organisational benefits) were interpreted as perceived implementation facilitators. The theme Attitudes and perceived preparedness of potential adopters comprised of subthemes that were interpreted as both perceived implementation facilitators and barriers. Two other themes (Frequency of intervention delivery; Suggested changes to the intervention) were more broadly related to the intervention’s implementation. Participants were exceedingly supportive of the implementation of a digital psychosocial intervention such as DIALOG+. The attractive intervention’s characteristics, efficient use of scarce resources for its implementation and potential to improve mental health services were seen as the main implementation facilitators. The major implementation barrier identified was psychiatrists’ time constrains.Conclusions: This study yielded important insights regarding implementation of digital psychosocial interventions for people with PSD in low-resource settings by including perspectives from four stakeholder groups in five LMICs in Southeast Europe – a population and region rarely explored in the literature. The perceived limited availability of psychiatrists could be potentially resolved by increased inclusion of other mental health professionals in service delivery for PSD. These findings will be used to inform the implementation strategy of DIALOG+ across the participating countries. The study also offers insights into multi-country qualitative research. [1] By United Nations resolution 1244
smORFunction: A Tool for Predicting Functions of Small Open Reading Frames and Microproteins
Authors: Ji Xiangwen , Cui Chunmei , Cui Qinghua
Published: July 2020

Background Small open reading frame (smORF) is open reading frame with a length of less than 100 codons. Microproteins, translated from smORFs, have been found to participate in a variety of biological processes such as muscle formation and contraction, cell proliferation, and immune activation. Although previous studies have collected and annotated a large abundance of smORFs, functions of the vast majority of smORFs are still unknown. It is thus increasingly important to develop computational methods to annotate the functions of these smORFs. Results In this study, we collected 617,462 unique smORFs from three studies. The expression of smORF RNAs was estimated by reannotated microarray probes. Using a speed-optimized correlation algorism, the functions of smORFs were predicted by their correlated genes with known functional annotations. After applying our method to 5 known microproteins from literatures, our method successfully predicted their functions. Further validation from the UniProt database showed that at least one function of 202 out of 270 microproteins was predicted. Conclusions We developed a method, smORFunction, to provide function predictions of smORFs/microproteins in at most 265 models generated from 173 datasets, including 48 tissues/cells, 82 diseases (and normal). The tool can be available at http://www.cuilab.cn/smorfunction.
The Changing Epidemiology of Dog Bite Injuries in the United States, 2005-2018
Authors: Tuckel Peter , Milczarski William
Published: July 2020

Background
In 2018, the most recent year for which data are available, dog bites ranked as the 13th leading cause of nonfatal emergency department visits in the United States. As dog ownership spirals upwards in the United States, it is important to continue to monitor the epidemiology of dog bite injuries. This study provides contemporary data on the incidence of dog bites injuries in the United States and in New York and profiles individuals who have been treated for dog bites in emergency departments. The study also examines the demographic correlates of the rate of injuries at the neighborhood level in New York city and maps the rate in each neighborhood.
Methods
At the national level, the study examines longitudinal data on dog bite injuries from 2005–2018 gathered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For New York, the study analyzes data for 2005–2018 collected by the New York State Department of Health. A negative binomial regression analysis was performed on the state data to measure the simultaneous effects of demographic variables on the incidence of dog-related injuries. A thematically shaded map of the rate of dog bite injuries in New York city’s neighborhoods was created to identify neighborhoods with higher-than-average concentration of injuries.
Results
In both the United States and New York the rate of dog-bite injuries increased from 2005 to 2011 and then underwent a significant decline. Injuries due to dog bites, however, still remain a sizable public health problem. Injuries are more prevalent among school-age children, inhabitants of less-densely populated areas, and residents of poorer neighborhoods. In New York city, poorer neighborhoods are also associated with fewer dogs being spayed or neutered.
Conclusions
To reduce the rate of dog bite injuries, prevention programs – particularly those which center on teaching the dangers of canine interactions with humans – should be targeted at children. Dog bite injuries tend to be clustered in identifiable neighborhoods. Dog bite prevention programs and stricter enforcement of dog laws can target these neighborhoods.
Granulomatous Cholangitis Mimicking Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Fujisaki Shigeru , Takashina Motoi , Sakurai Ken-ichi , Tomita Ryouichi , Takayama Tadatoshi
Published: July 2020

Background:Hilar biliary stricture caused by isolated fungal infections in immunocompetent patients are considered to be extremely rare and difficult to the diagnose from the outset.Case presentation:We report a unique case of granulomatous cholangitis based on isolated biliary fungal infection manifesting as obstructive jaundice and mimicking hilar cholangiocarcinoma in an immunocompetent woman. A 67-year-old Japanese woman was referred to our hospital for obstructive jaundice. She had been followed up for hypochondroplasia by the referring physician. Her total bilirubin level was 5.4 mg/dL. Viral hepatitis screening was found to be negative, and serum IgG4 was within normal limits; however, her CA19-9 level was high. Abdominal computed tomography revealed dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Abdominal echogram detected a solid mass in the hilar bile duct. Her magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography has also revealed an abrupt stenosis of the primary biliary confluence with upstream dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Endoscopic nasobiliary drainage was then performed to improve the obstructive jaundice. Although biliary cytology did not reveal malignant findings, the bile duct in the hilum showed severe stenosis, and hilar cholangiocarcinoma could not be completely excluded. The patient had a developmental disorder based on chondrodystrophy. To avoid excessive surgical stress, such as hepatic lobectomy, we performed resection of the extrahepatic bile duct and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy reconstruction. Intraoperative frozen sections of the resection margins were determined to be negative for tumor. The resected specimen showed multiple strictures inside the common bile duct, numerous calculi in the lumen, and little free space. The final pathological diagnosis was granulomatous cholangitis due to fungal infection. The patient’s postoperative course was deemed uneventful. She was discharged from our hospital 23 days after surgery without antifungal treatment.Conclusions:For a unique case of granulomatous cholangitis based on isolated biliary fungal infection mimicking hilar cholangiocarcinoma, we were able to avoid excessive invasion and performed appropriate surgical management.
Pancreatic Lymphangioma Mimicking Mucinous Cystadenoma: A Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Qian Hongwei , Lu Baochun , Liu Fang , Shao Huijiang
Published: July 2020

Background: Pancreatic lymphangioma (PL) is a rare benign neoplasm arising from the lymphatic system. The imaging features of PLs are valuable but not pathognomonic, distinguishing PLs from other pancreatic cystic lesions is still a great challenge.Case presentation: In our study, we present a 62-year-old woman with PL showing tumor in the distal pancreas, which was misdiagnosed as mucinous cystadenoma preoperatively. Laparoscopic cystectomy was performed after onsite assessments intraoperatively and the recovery was uneventful. Conclusions: PLs should be included in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic cystic neoplasms and a minimally invasive way for PL treatments is also of great importance. This case will be a good complement for the whole PL cohort.
Comparison of Laparoscopic and Open Partial Nephrectomy in the Treatment of T1 Renal Tumor:a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Sui Yuanming , Zhang Zongliang , Sun Huaqing , Zhao Kai , Wang Zhenlin , Zhang Yulian , Lin Chunhua , Guo Jiaming , Li Chen , Li Xueyu , Niu Haitao , Wang Ke
Published: July 2020

Objective:Different surgical approaches may bring different treatment results for one disease.We thus determined to gather the current evidence to evaluate the effect of laparoscopic partial nephrecomy(LPN) and open partial nephrectomy(OPN) in the treatment of T1 renal tumor.Methods:We comprehensively researched PubMed,Embase,Google Scholar and Clinicaltrials.gov to find all referring studies(published between Jan1,2015,and Jan 1,2020 without language restrictions) .We calculated the odds ratios(OR) and standard mean difference(SMD),and analyzed their heterogeneity with RevMan 5.3 software.Results:Six studies were included finally.Comparing open partial nephrectomy, the pooled SMD of operative time was 0.14, (95% confidential index CI = [-0.11, 0.38]), the pooled SMD of estimated blood loss was -0.14, (95% CI = [-0.58, 0.31]), the pooled SMD of ischemia time was 0.57, (95% CI = [-0.02, 1.16]), the pooled SMD of length of stay was -0.55, (95% CI = [-1.12, 0.02]),and the pooled OR of positive margin was 1.02, (95% CI = [0.39, 2.68]),the pooled OR of postoperative complications was 0.74,(95% CI = [0.41, 1.36]). Conclusions:LRN had advantages on decreasing postoperative complications rate but the ischemia time of OPN was much shorter.
HANDY: A Device for Assessing Resistance to Mechanical Crushing of Maize Kernel
Authors: Su Yuan , Xu Yang , Cui Tao , Gao Xiaojun , Xia Guoyi , Li Yibo , Qiao Mengmeng , Yu Yingbo
Published: July 2020

Background: How to reduce the physical damage during maize kernel harvesting is a major problem for both mechanical designers and plant breeders. A limitation of addressing this problem is the lack of a reliable method for assessing kernel damage susceptibility. Previous methods of testing kernel strength lack in make a comparative discussion from the viewpoint of threshing. The design, construction and testing of a portable tool called “HANDY”, which can assess the resistance to mechanical crushing in maize kernel. A device is designed and developed that can impact the kernel with a special accelerator at a given rotating speed and then cause measurable damage of maize kernel. These factors are varied to determine the ideal parameters for operating the HANDY. Results: Baseline testing of the HANDY is performed to determine the initial range of testing parameters. The result shows that the optimum number of test times is one for one group of maize kernels. Breakage index (BI, target index of HANDY), decreased as the moisture content of kernel increased or the rotating speed decreased within the tested range. Furthermore, the HANDY exhibited a greater sensitivity in testing kernels at higher moisture level influence on susceptibility of damage maize kernel than that in Breakage Susceptibility tests, particularly when the centrifugation speed is about 1800 rpm and the disc is curved type centrifugal disc. Considering that the mechanical properties of kernels vary greatly as the moisture content changes, a subsection linear (average goodness of fit is 0.87) to predict the threshing quality is built by piecewise function analysis, which is divided by kernel moisture. Specifically, threshing quality is regarded as a function of the measured result of the HANDY.Conclusions: The HANDY provides a quantitative assessment of mechanical crushing resistance of maize kernel. The BI is demonstrated to be a more robust index than breakage susceptibility (BS) when evaluating threshing quality in harvesting in terms of both reliability and accuracy. This study also offers a new perspective for evaluating the mechanical crushing resistance of grains, and provides technical support for breeding maize varieties which are suitable for mechanical harvesting.
Xylopic Acid-Amodiaquine and Xylopic Acid-Artesunate Combinations are Effective in Managing Malaria in Plasmodium Berghei-infected Mice.
Authors: Osei Silas Acheampong , Biney Robert Peter , Obese Ernest , Agbenyeku Mary Atta-Panyi , Attah Isaac Yaw , Ameyaw Elvis Ofori , Boampong Johnson Nyarko
Published: July 2020

Background: Evidence of plasmodium resistance to some of the current antimalarial agents makes it imperative to search for newer and effective drugs to combat malaria. Therefore, this study evaluated whether the co-administrations of xylopic acid-amodiaquine and xylopic acid-artesunate combinations will produce synergistic antimalarial effect. Methods: Antiplasmodial effect of xylopic acid (XA: 3, 10, 30, 100, 150 mg kg -1 ), artesunate (ART: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 mg kg -1 ), and amodiaquine (AQ: 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, 20 mg kg -1 ) were evaluated in Plasmodium berghei ANKA-infected mice to determine respective ED 50 s. Artemether/lumefantrine (AL: 1.14/6.9) p.o. was used as the positive control. XA/ART and XA/AQ were subsequently administered in a fixed-dose combination of their ED 50 s (1:1) and the combination fractions of their ED 50 s (1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, and 1/32) to determine the experimental ED 50 s (Z exp ). An isobologram was constructed to determine the nature of the interaction between XA/ART, and XA/AQ combinations by comparing Z exp with the theoretical ED 50 (Z add ). Body weight and 30-day survival post-treatment were additionally recorded. Results: ED 50 s for XA, ART, and AQ were 9.0 ± 3.2, 1.61 ± 0.6, and 3.1 ± 0.8 mg kg -1 respectively. The Z add , Z exp and interaction index for XA/ART co-administration was 5.3 ± 2.61, 1.98 ± 0.25 and 0.37, respectively while that of XA/AQ were 6.05 ± 2.0, 1.69 ± 0.42, and 0.28 respectively. The Z exp for both combination therapies lay significantly (p<0.001) below the additive isoboles showing XA acts synergistically with both ART and AQ in clearing the parasites. High doses of XA/ART combination significantly (p<0.05) increased the survival days of infected mice with a mean hazard ratio of 0.40 while all the XA/AQ combination doses showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in the survival days of infected mice with a mean hazard ratio of 0.27 similar to AL. Both XA/ART and XA/AQ combined treatments significantly (p<0.05) reduced weight loss. Conclusion: Xylopic acid co-administration with either artesunate or amodiaquine produces a synergistic anti-plasmodial effect in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA.
In Vitro Investigation of The Cytotoxic Activity of E35 on Multiple Myeloma Cell Lines
Authors: Zheng Jing , Chen Yingyu , Zheng Zhihong , Chen Yanxin , Chai Yujuan , Wang Wenfeng , Asakawa Tetsuya , Hu Jianda
Published: July 2020

Background: Bortezomib is used for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM); however, it has significant adverse effects. Emodin has been reported to exhibit inhibitory effects on MM cell lines. Here, we investigated the efficacy of E35, an emodin derivative, using U266 and MM1s cell lines in the treatment of MM and the efficacy of the combination of bortezomib and E35. Methods: MTT assays were used to observe the effects of E35 on MM cell growth. The effects on cellular apoptosis were observed using the Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining assay. The expression of apoptosis-related genes, including the caspase family, was also examined. The efficacy of the combination of bortezomib and E35 was investigated by examining the expression of the Akt/mTOR/4EBP1 signaling pathway-related proteins. Results: We found that E35 inhibited the growth of the U266 and MM1s cells by inducing cellular apoptosis. E35 also downregulated the expression of the apoptosis-related genes and suppressed the phosphorylation of the Akt/mTOR/4EBP1 signaling pathway-related genes, exhibiting synergistic effects with bortezomib. All the observed effects were dose-dependent. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that E35 exhibited cytotoxic effects in MM cell lines. Thus, E35, especially in combination with bortezomib, may be considered as a promising treatment for MM. However, this requires further investigation in vivo.
Characterizing Longitudinal Change in Physical Activity and Fear of Falling in Glaucoma
Authors: E Jian-Yu , Mihailovic Aleksandra , Schrack Jennifer A. , Li Tianjing , Friedman David S. , West Sheila K. , Gitlin Laura N. , Ramulu Pradeep Y.
Published: July 2020

Background: Older adults with visual impairments experience a higher risk of falling, and are more vulnerable to adverse health consequences associated with falls than those with normal vision. This study aims to characterize the longitudinal changes of objectively measured physical activity and self-reported fear of falling (FoF) related to types of falls in visually impaired older adults. Methods: We obtained data from the Falls in Glaucoma Study (FIGS), a prospective cohort study that recruited 234 participants at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute from 2013 to 2015. Falls were defined as unintentionally coming to rest on the ground or a lower level, and injurious falls were determined though follow-up calls. Study participants were categorized into three groups – fallers with injurious consequences, fallers without injurious consequences, and non-fallers based on fall status in the first year. Physical activity was assessed using a waist-bound accelerometer (Actical). FoF was evaluated by questionnaire, with Rasch modeling generating FoF scores where higher scores reflected worse FoF. The three-year longitudinal changes of physical activity and FoF were modeled using mixed-effects models. Results: In linear models fully adjusted for visual field damage and other covariates, physical activity among injurious fallers declined 425 steps/year (95% confidence interval [CI]: -793, -57), 13 active minutes/year (95% CI: -21, -6), and 3 minutes/year of moderate/vigorous activity (95% CI: -5, 0) more over the three-year study period compared to non-fallers; however, physical activity did not decline among non-injurious fallers. No longitudinal increases in FoF scores were observed in injurious or non-injurious fallers.Conclusions: Among visually impaired older adults, injurious falls identified prospectively over 12 months contributed to a significant decline in physical activity over a three-year period, while no significant increases were observed for FoF. Further longitudinal research is warranted to better understand how different groups respond to falls, either via behavioral changes and/or changes in FoF, and to characterize the impact of reduced physical activity in fallers.
The Efficiency And Safety Of Dexamethasone For Pain Relief Followed Lumbar Decompression And Fusion: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Chao , Chen Chen , Yang Xiaotian , Wang Rui , Xue Yuan
Published: July 2020

Background: This meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety and efficiency of dexamethasone for pain relief followed lumbar decompression and fusion.Methods: Two reviewers have independently searched 3 electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library) up to Jun, 2019 without restrictions on language and publication. After testing for heterogeneity between studies, data were aggregated for random-effects models when necessary. The results of dichotomous outcomes were expressed as relative risks (RRs) with a 95% confidence intervals (CIs). For continuous variable, mean and standard difference (SD) were applied for assessment. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 12.0 software.Results: Seven RCTs and one retrospective study including 958 patients met the inclusion criteria. The present meta-analysis indicated that there were significant differences between groups in terms of visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 24 hours of movement (SMD=0.44, 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.21, P < 0.001). Dexamethasone group was associated with a lower opioids consumption at 24 hours (SMD=0.601, 95% CI: 0.93 to 0.28, P < 0.001), less occurrence of nausea and vomiting (RR=0.52, 95% CI: 0.40 to 0.67, P < 0.001), shorter length of hospital stay (SMD = 0.207, 95% CI: 0.396 to 0.017, P = 0.003).Conclusion: In our meta-analysis of 8 reliable studies, we found that intravenous dexamethasone could significantly reduce postoperative pain scores and opioids consumption within the 24 hours followed lumbar decompression and fusion. Furthermore, patients could gain functional exercise early and the length of stay in hospital was significantly shorten. More researches were needed to confirm these conclusions.
Comparative analysis of some bioactive compounds in leaves of different Aloe species
Authors: Andrea Bunea , Rugina Dumitrita , Florina Copaciu , Francisc Dulf , Anastasia Veres , Socaci Sonia , Adela Pintea
Published: July 2020

Although a vast number of Aloe species are known, only the Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens species are currently used by cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, the current study aims to complete the existent literature data with new information on the phytochemical composition of some lesser-known Aloe species, with the main focus on carotenoids and fatty acids. Among the analyzed species, Aloe aculeata and Aloe ferox had the highest content in carotenoids, the major pigments being lutein and β-carotene (according to HPLC analysis). The fatty acid profile of each Aloe species was analysed by GC-MS. Linolenic and linoleic acids were the major polyunsaturated fatty acids found in higher percent in Aloe ferox, Aloe spectabilis and Aloe marlothii. Instead, Aloe aculeata proved to have a distinct fatty acid profile, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. Species such as Aloe arborescens and Aloe marlothii proved to have the highest antioxidant potential according to data of DPPH, ORAC, HPS assays, even if the richest one in vitamin C was found to be Aloe spectabilis. Though the scientific research is mainly focused on the common species Aloe barbadensis, current data suggests that other Aloe species could receive more attention from industry part, being great sources of bioactive compounds.
Effect of Virtual Reality on Cognitive Impairment and Clinical Symptoms Among Patients with Schizophrenia in the Remission Stage: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Shangda , Sun Bin , Wei Ning , Shen Zhe , Jin Kangyu , Zhao Haoyang , Chen Yaping , Huang manli , Xu Yi
Published: July 2020

Background: This is an intervention study which explores the effect of using virtual reality supermarket training system (VRSTS) to improve cognitive function deficiency and clinical symptoms in Han Chinese patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage. Methods:68 patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage were recruited for the interventional study and were randomly allocated to either virtual reality training (VRT) group or treatment-as-usual (TAU) group. For VRT group, patients received training with VRSTS for two weeks and antipsychotic treatment as usual while TAU group only received antipsychotic treatment as usual. Cognitive function and clinical symptoms before and after intervention were assessed by MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Personal and Social Performance Scale (PSP).Results:Results showed (1) VRSTS could improve MCCB composite scores and 4 out of 7 cognitive domains: speed of processing, working memory, visual learning, reasoning and problem solving, and (2) VRSTS could alleviate general psychopathology symptoms of PANSS but did not exert effects on positive and negative symptoms among patients with schizophrenia in the remission stageConclusion:A therapeutic effect of VRSTS was observed in patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage. It may improve cognitive impairment and general psychopathology symptoms.Trial registration: China Clinical Trial Registry, ChiVTR1800016121. Registered 13 May 2018, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=27233
Impact of COVID-19 Lock down period on Ocular Trauma
Authors: Shah Prof Mehul , Bhasin Purendra , Shah Shreya , Patel Heena
Published: July 2020

Introduction: This study investigated the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown on the incidence of ocular trauma.Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we collected data of patients who presented with ocular trauma in the emergency department during the lockdown period (from 22 March, 2020, to 30 April, 2020). In addition, we collected data of patients presenting with ocular trauma during the same period in the previous year. We compared the number of patients who underwent ocular surgery and the number of paediatric patients with ocular trauma between these two periods. A confounding factor may be the absence of patients from different districts who could not travel to the centre due to travel restrictions.Results: Between 22 March, 2019, and 30 April, 2019, a total of 76 patients presented with ocular trauma, of whom 28( 37.2%) required surgery. By contrast, between 22 March, 2020, and 30 April, 2020, a total of 78 patients presented with ocular trauma, of whom 33(42)% required surgery. Furthermore, 9% and 30% of the total patients in 2019 and 2020, respectively, belonged to the paediatric age group. Conclusions: COVID-19 lockdown exerted a significant effect on the incidence of ocular trauma.
Lymphatic Muscle Cells Contribute to Dysfunction of the Synovial Lymphatic System in Inflammatory Arthritis in Mice
Authors: Liang Qianqian , Zhang Li , Xu Hao , Li Jinlong , Chen Yan , Schwarz Edward M. , Shi Qi , Wang Yongjun , Xing Lianping
Published: July 2020

Background. We previous studies reveal impaired draining function of the synovial lymphatic vessel (LV) contributes to inflammatory arthritis, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved are not fully understood.Objective. To investigate the involvement of lymphatic muscle cells (LMCs) in mediating impaired LV function in inflammatory arthritis.Methods. TNF transgenic (TNF-Tg) arthritic mice were used. Structure and function of the LVs that drain the hind limbs were examined by whole-mount immunofluorescence staining, electron microscope, and near-infrared lymphatic imaging. Primary LMCs were treated with TNF, and the changes in proliferation, apoptosis, and functional gene expression were assessed. Roles of the herbal drug, Panax Notoginseng Saponins (PNS), in arthritis and LVs were studied.Results. TNF-Tg mice developed ankle arthritis with age, which was associated with abnormalities of LVs: 1) dilated capillary LVs with few branch points; 2) mature LVs with reduced LMC coverage and draining function; 3) degenerative and apoptotic appearance of LMCs. TNF caused LMC apoptosis, reduced expression of muscle functional genes, and promoted the production of nitric oxide (NO) by lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). PNS attenuated arthritis, restored LMC coverage and draining function of mature LVs, inhibited TNF-mediated NO expression, and reduced LMC apoptosis.Conclusion. The impaired draining function of LVs in TNF-Tg mice involves LMC apoptosis. TNF promotes LMC death directly and indirectly via NO production by LECs. PNS attenuates arthritis, improves LVs, and prevents TNF-induced LMC apoptosis by inhibiting NO production of LECs. LMCs contribute to the dysfunction of synovial LVs in inflammatory arthritis.
Effects of rearing system and narasin on growth performance, gastro-intestinal development and gut microbiota of broilers
Authors: Yan Lei , Lv Zunzhou , An Sha , Xing Kun , Wang Zhengguo , Lv Mingbin , Choct Mingan , Guo Yuming , Zhou Guilian
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThis study was conducted to evaluate the effects of three rearing systems (FL: flooring litter rearing, MC: multilayer cage rearing, PN: plastic net rearing) and narasin inclusion or not on growth performance, gastro-intestine development and health of broilers. A total of 2400 one-day-old Ross 308 mixed-sex broilers (1:1 ratio of males and females) were used in a completely randomized design utilizing a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments, with 12 replicates per treatment. In each replicate for FL, MC and PN consisted of: 34 birds per pen, 30 birds per cage, and 36 birds per pen, respectively, ensuring that the density of each rearing system was the same (12 birds/m2).ResultsLower ADG (average daily gain), ADFI (average daily feed intake) and FCR (feed conversation ratio) observed in MC group than those of the other two systems from 1 to 36 days of age (P < 0.05). Narasin inclusion in diets decreased ADFI and FCR significantly (P < 0.05). MC and PN rearing systems reduced the relative weight of the gizzard significantly (P < 0.05). Compared with FL rearing, MC reduced the relative weight of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of the ileal IL-1β and IFN-γ in FL was higher than those in PN and MC groups (P < 0.05). Narasin decreased the mRNA expressions of TNF-α in the ileum (P < 0.05). Different rearing systems changed the ileal microflora structure of broilers. The FL system increased ileal microbial diversity of broilers and relative abundance of Actinobacteria. Narasin combined with MC increased the relative abundance Proteobacteria of broilers. Conclusionbirds reared in PN had higher body weight. MC birds had poorer intestinal development and health condition, higher abundance of Proteobacteria, but better FCR. FL rearing appeared to be propitious for gastro-intestinal development and health. Narasin inclusion in diets improved FCR and changed the relative abundance Proteobacteria of broilers.
COVID-19 pandemic: Nigerians’ knowledge, perception and adherence to preventive measures
Authors: Oyeyemi Oyetunde , Oladoyin Victoria , Okunlola Oluyemi , Mosobalaje Akinola , Oyeyemi Ifeoluwa , Adebimpe Wasiu , Nwuba Roseangela , Anuoluwa Iyadunni , Tiamiyu Adebisi , Ovuakporie-uvo Oghale , Adesina Isaac , Olatunji Babawale , Kone Jennifer , Oluwafemi Yinka , Obajaja Caleb , Ajiboye Abiodun
Published: July 2020

Aims: One of the ways to manage the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is monitoring of public knowledge, risk perceptions, adherence to preventive measures and preparedness behaviors. This is of utmost importance in resource limited countries. This study determined the knowledge and perception about COVID-19; adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures; as well as predictors of self-perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 among Nigerian adults.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Nigerian adults ≥ 18 years using an online survey. Participants were recruited using the authors’ social networks. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics at 5% level of statistical significance.Results: Generally, a high proportion of respondents had correct knowledge about COVID-19. However, only about half (49.8% and 49.9%) had correct knowledge that obesity was a risk factor for COVID-19 and that antibiotics cannot be used to treat COVID-19. Most (84.1%) did not have a self-perceived risk of contracting COVID-19. Most (81.0%) have been avoiding crowded places and 61.3% washed their hands very often. Predictors of self-perceived risk of COVID-19 were age 40-59 years (OR 2.05, CI 1.217-3.435), ≥ 60 years (OR 4.68, CI 1.888-11.583) and visiting crowded places (OR 2.27, CI 1.499-3.448).Conclusion: Our study recommends more rigorous public health education aimed at improving COVID-19 outbreak response in Nigerian. Also, physical and social distancing should be emphasized across all age groups with additional focus on the older population.
Prevalence, and Associated Factors of tobacco smoking among adults in the United Arab Emirates; Results from National Health Survey
Authors: Razzak Hira Abdul , Qawas Ahmad , Mujahed Marwa , Harbi Alya
Published: July 2020

Background: Cigarette smoking is one of the major public health concern and is the primary cause of preventable illness and premature death. Tobacco use, including secondary smoking, is a major contributing factor to morbidity and mortality across UAE. This study examined the prevalence, and associated factors of tobacco smoking among adults living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The study further aims to study the socioeconomic determinants such as employment, education and income of the UAE population with respect to the status of smoking.Methods A population-based survey of adults aged 18+ was undertaken. Around 10,000 randomly selected Households across all 7 Emirates were selected to yield representative data. A total of 8188 adults (18 years and above) participated in the national health survey. The overall response rate was 87% among adult participants.Results Overall, the prevalence of current smoking was 9.1% among the selected population whereas, 0.8 % of the respondents smoked tobacco on daily basis. Smoking rates were higher in individuals having lower levels of education, students studying in university and people who had no income.Conclusion Providing data on the prevalence and factors associated with smoking among specific populations may offer an improved understanding of the tobacco use patterns as well as it may help in developing interventions or health related policies.
Can the app contain the spread?An agent-based model of COVID-19 and the effectiveness of smartphone-based contact tracing
Authors: Almagor Jonatan , Picascia Stefano
Published: July 2020

A contact-tracing strategy has been deemed necessary to contain the spread of COVID-19 following the relaxation of lockdown measures. Using an agent-based model, we explore one of the technology-based strategies proposed, a contact-tracing smartphone app. The model simulates the spread of COVID-19 in a population of agents on an urban scale. Agents are heterogeneous in their characteristics and are linked in a multi-layered network representing the social structure - including households, friendships, employment and schools.We explore the interplay of various adoption rates of the contact-tracing app, different levels of testing capacity, and behavioural factors, to assess the ability of this track-and-trace strategy to mitigate the epidemic. Results suggest that the app can contribute substantially to the reduction of infections in the population, although complete suppression of the virus is unlikely to be achieved. The model also shows that, while adopting the app is beneficial for epidemic control in most cases, a high adoption rate is likely to generate an extensive increase in the demand for testing, which, if not met with adequate supply, may render the app counterproductive. This points to the crucial role of an efficient testing policy and the necessity to upscale testing capacity.