bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic significance of preoperative systemic inflammation response index in newly diagnosed glioblastoma patients underwent gross total resection: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Wang Zhihao , Li Junhong , Yuan Yunbo , Li Tengfei , Zuo Mingrong , Liu Yanhui
Published: April 2022

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequent and lethal brain tumor, which possesses highly malignant characteristics and predominates in elder patients. Systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI) is a novel prognostic marker from peripheral blood, which is defined as neutrophil count × monocyte count/lymphocyte count. In the current research, we aim to explore the relationship between SIRI and newly diagnosed GBM underwent gross total resection (GTR).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on consecutive newly diagnosed GBM patients underwent operation at West China Hospital from March 2015 to January 2019. X-tile software was used to determine the optimal cut-off values of SIRI, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR). All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software and R software. Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to adjust for imbalance of all potential confounding covariates.

Results

The current research included a total of 291 consecutive newly diagnosed GBM patients underwent gross total resection. Among them, 186 were male patients and 105 were female patients. In original cohort, only gender was evidently related to SIRI level. SIRI and NLR were independent prognostic indicators both in original cohort and PSM cohort. Prognostic models based on the independent prognostic factors were established, and prognostic capacity of Model SIRI was superior to Model NLR.

Conclusion

In the current research, SIRI was determined to be an independent prognostic indicator for GBM. And the prognostic predictive ability of SIRI was stronger than NLR.
Gene expression of fibrinolytic markers in coronary thrombi
Authors: Nordeng Jostein , Solheim Svein , Åkra Sissel , Schandiz Hossein , Hoffmann Pavel , Roald Borghild , Bendz Bjørn , Arnesen Harald , Helseth Ragnhild , Seljeflot Ingebjørg
Published: April 2022

Background

The fibrinolytic system plays an important role in coronary artery atherothrombosis, and especially circulating plasminogen-activator inhibitor (PAI) type 1 (PAI-1) associates with increased mortality, infarct size and heart failure in patients with myocardial infarction (MI). In a cross-sectional study, we aimed to study whether genes encoding tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), urinary-type plasminogen activator (uPA), PAI-1 and PAI-2 are expressed in coronary thrombi from acute ST-elevation MI (STEMI) patients. Any relations to myocardial injury measured by peak troponin T, time from symptom onset to Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), and to different cell types present in the thrombi were also explored.

Methods

Intracoronary thrombi were aspirated from 33 STEMI patients treated with primary PCI. The thrombi were snap-frozen for gene expression analyses, relatively quantified by RT PCR. Peripheral blood samples were drawn. Correlations were performed by Spearmans rho.

Results

The genes were present in 74–94% of the thrombi. Median peak troponin T was 3434 μ/L and median ischemic time 152 min. There were no significant correlations between the measured genes and troponin T, or ischemic time. Genes encoding tPA, u-PA, PAI-1 and PAI-2 all correlated significantly to the presence of monocytes/macrophages (CD68) in the thrombi (p = 0.028, p < 0.001, p = 0.003, p < 0.001). PAI-1 and PAI-2 also correlated to endothelial cells (CD31) (p = 0.002, p = 0.016). uPA associated with neutrophil granulocytes (CD 66b) (p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Genes encoding tPA, uPA, PAI-1 and PAI-2 were highly expressed in human coronary thrombi from STEMI patients, indicating fibrinolytic regulators playing active roles in the thrombi, although not related to myocardial injury. All markers related to the presence of monocytes/macrophages, indicating connection to local inflammatory cells.

Trial registration

The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov with identification number NCT02746822.
CD4+c-Met+Itgα4+ T cell subset promotes murine neuroinflammation
Authors: Benkhoucha Mahdia , Tran Ngoc Lan , Breville Gautier , Senoner Isis , Bradfield Paul F. , Papayannopoulou Thalia , Merkler Doron , Korn Thomas , Lalive Patrice H.
Published: April 2022

Objective

c-Met, a tyrosine kinase receptor, is the unique receptor for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). The HGF/c-Met axis is reported to modulate cell migration, maturation, cytokine production, and antigen presentation. Here, we report that CD4+c-Met+ T cells are detected at increased levels in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

c-Met expression by CD4+ T cells was analyzed mostly by flow cytometry and by immunohistochemistry from mice and human PBMCs. The in vivo role of CD4+c-Met+ T cells was assessed in EAE.

Results

CD4+c-Met+ T cells found in the CNS during EAE peak disease are characterized by a pro-inflammatory phenotype skewed towards a Th1 and Th17 polarization, with enhanced adhesion and transmigration capacities correlating with increased expression of integrin α4 (Itgα4). The adoptive transfer of Itgα4-expressing CD4+Vα3.2+c-Met+ T cells induces increased disease severity compared to CD4+Vα3.2+c-Met− T cells. Finally, CD4+c-Met+ T cells are detected in the brain of MS patients, as well as in the blood with a higher level of Itgα4. These results highlight c-Met as an immune marker of highly pathogenic pro-inflammatory and pro-migratory CD4+ T lymphocytes associated with neuroinflammation.
Cholecalciferol supplementation lowers leptin and TMAO but increases NO and VEGF-A levels in obese vitamin D deficient patients: Is it one of the potential cardioprotective mechanisms of vitamin D?
Authors: Ozorowski Mateusz , Wiciński Michał , Wróbel Łukasz , Fajkiel-Madajczyk Anna
Published: April 2022

Background

Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common health issues in developed countries. Obese patients are most at risk of having serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) levels that are too low due to the accumulation of vitamin D in adipose tissue. While the effects of a deficiency on the skeletal or immune system are known, the effects on the cardiovascular system are not yet clear. Our study investigates the effect of cholecalciferol supplementation in obese patients on selected biomarkers associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Methods

The study enrolled 33 obese patients with insufficient 25(OH)D3 levels. For three months, the subjects supplemented with cholecalciferol at a dose of 2000 IU/day. Concentrations of nitric oxide (NO), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), leptin, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) were measured in baseline samples using ELISA (BioTek EPOCH). 25(OH)D3 levels measured on Beckman Coulter DXI 800 by chemiluminescence method.

Results

After supplementation, 25(OH)D3 levels increased significantly. Normal levels were achieved in most patients. A statistically significant reduction leptin and TMAO levels was observed. At the same time, NO and VEGF-A levels increased statistically significantly.

Conclusion

This study indicates that restoring normal 25(OH)D3 levels in obese people reduces the concentration of pro-inflammatory factors associated with cardiovascular diseases. Reducing inflammation and the potential impact on vascular reactivity leads to the conclusion that cholecalciferol supplementation in obese patients may benefit the cardiovascular system.
The folk illness kimeo and “traditional” uvulectomy: an ethnomedical study of care seeking for children with cough and weakness in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Lange Siri , Mfaume Dorcas
Published: April 2022

Background

Amputation of the uvula by lay providers, so-called “traditional uvulectomy”, is common in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. In Tanzania, the procedure is a treatment of persistent cough, and in some areas of the country, one in three children have been cut. Previous research from Sub-Saharan Africa suggest that uvulectomy by lay providers can increase morbidity and mortality in children, but few studies have examined the cultural ideas and practices that are linked to this form of lay surgery.

Methods

This ethnomedical study took place in Dar es Salaam. Ten focus group discussions with a total of 43 caregivers in three different administrative districts were carried out, focusing on their perceptions of uvulectomy, the folk illness kimeo, and their experiences with taking a child for cutting. Four folk practitioners who carry out uvulectomies were interviewed individually, with a special focus on their background, and their perceptions of kimeo and uvulectomy.

Results

Caregivers in Dar es Salaam typically take children who suffer from cough, vomiting and weakness to a professional health provider as a first recourse. If the child does not get well relatively quickly, some start fearing that their child may suffer from the folk illness kimeo. Kimeo is perceived by some to be an acute, life-threatening illness that professional health providers are incapable of treating. Folk practitioners treat kimeo by amputating the uvula using forceps. The four interviewed practitioners had learned their skill in apprenticeship, and two of them were third generation uvula cutters. Caregivers regard the folk practitioners as experts who offer a service that is perceived as both efficient and safe.

Conclusions

Efforts should be made to improve the quality of professional health services for children presenting with cough, including more open communication with caregivers about the folk illness kimeo. More research is needed to establish the clinical conditions that children who are taken for uvulectomy suffer from, to what degree the practice delays professional health care for underlying illnesses like pneumonia, and the negative effects of the cutting itself.
Mental health experiences with COVID-19 public health measures in an Alberta First Nations Community
Authors: Lee Cerina , Wozniak Lisa A. , Soprovich Allison L. , Sharma Vishal , Healy Bonnie , Samanani Salim , Eurich Dean T.
Published: April 2022

Background

First Nations (FN) people of Canada experience health, social, and systemic inequities due to colonization. Consequently, COVID-19 has placed further mental health stress on people related to personal finances, employment security and worry over infection, resulting in exacerbated effects of unresolved past medical and physical traumas. This study aims to understand the experiences related to mental health in an Alberta FN community during the early stages of the pandemic.

Methods

In partnership with FN leadership, the study implemented an online cross-sectional survey. Adults from a large FN community in Alberta, Canada, were asked to complete a survey, including two mental health-related screening questionnaires: (1) Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 item; and (2) Patient Health Questionnaire-2 item. In addition, respondents could provide responses to open-ended questions about their experiences.

Results

Among 106 respondents, 95 (89.6%) finished the survey; 18% of adults screened positive for depressive symptoms (score of 3 or greater) and reported difficulty following public health advice for using hand sanitizer, maintaining social distancing, or self-isolating. 21% of adults screened positive for symptoms of anxiety (score of 3 or greater) and reported difficulty maintaining social distance, self-isolating, obtaining food and clothing, or meeting other basic living requirements.

Conclusions

FN communities may be disproportionately affected by COVID-19, and may experience exacerbated symptoms of anxiety, depression and overall poor mental health and well-being. Additional supports and services, including for mental health, should be considered for FN in the context of COVID-19 public health measures.

Highlights

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought upon increased stress and accompanying symptoms of anxiety and depression for a First Nations community in Alberta.

Studies, such as this one, that characterize the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health among First Nations people, are urgently needed because of increasing demands on healthcare systems due to the pandemic and potential delays in the care of patients living with pre-existing mental health conditions.

There is an opportunity to capitalize on First Nations people’s experiences of post-traumatic growth proactively supporting/maintaining their well-being and possibly the development of community-based mental health interventions and supports.
Universal immunotherapeutic strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma with exosome vaccines that engage adaptive and innate immune responses
Authors: Zuo Bingfeng , Zhang Yang , Zhao Kangjie , Wu Li , Qi Han , Yang Rong , Gao Xianjun , Geng Mengyuan , Wu Yingjie , Jing Renwei , Zhou Qibing , Seow Yiqi , Yin HaiFang
Published: April 2022

Background

Personalized immunotherapy utilizing cancer vaccines tailored to the tumors of individual patients holds promise for tumors with high genetic heterogeneity, potentially enabling eradication of the tumor in its entirety.

Methods

Here, we demonstrate a general strategy for biological nanovaccines that trigger tailored tumor-specific immune responses for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Dendritic cell (DC)-derived exosomes (DEX) are painted with a HCC-targeting peptide (P47-P), an α-fetoprotein epitope (AFP212-A2) and a functional domain of high mobility group nucleosome-binding protein 1 (N1ND-N), an immunoadjuvant for DC recruitment and activation, via an exosomal anchor peptide to form a “trigger” DEX vaccine (DEXP&A2&N).

Results

DEXP&A2&Nspecifically promoted recruitment, accumulation and activation of DCs in mice with orthotopic HCC tumor, resulting in enhanced cross-presentation of tumor neoantigens and de novo T cell response. DEXP&A2&Nelicited significant tumor retardation and tumor-specific immune responses in HCC mice with large tumor burdens. Importantly, tumor eradication was achieved in orthotopic HCC mice when antigenic AFP peptide was replaced with the full-length AFP (A) to form DEXP&A&N. Supplementation of Fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand greatly augmented the antitumor immunity of DEXP&A&Nby increasing immunological memory against tumor re-challenge in orthotopic HCC mice. Depletion of T cells, cross-presenting DCs and other innate immune cells abrogated the functionality of DEXP&A&N.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the capacity of universal DEX vaccines to induce tumor-specific immune responses by triggering an immune response tailored to the tumors of each individual, thus presenting a generalizable approach for personalized immunotherapy of HCC, by extension of other tumors, without the need to identify tumor antigens.
Distinct expression and prognostic values of GATA transcription factor family in human ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhou Quan , Yang Huai-jie , Zuo Man-zhen , Tao Ya-ling
Published: April 2022

Accumulated studies have provided controversial evidences of expression patterns and prognostic value of the GATA family in human ovarian cancer. In the present study, we accessed the distinct expression and prognostic roles of 7 individual members of GATA family in ovarian cancer (OC) patients through Oncomine analysis, CCLE analysis, Human Protein Atlas (HPA), Kaplan–Meier plotter (KM plotter) database, cBioPortal and Metascape. Our results indicated that GATA1, GATA3, GATA4 and TRPS1 mRNA and protein expression was significantly higher in OC than normal samples. High expression of GATA1, GATA2, and GATA4 were significantly correlated with better overall survival (OS), while increased GATA3 and GATA6 expression were associated with worse prognosis in OC patients. GATA1, GATA2, GATA3 and GATA6 were closely related to the different pathological histology, pathological grade, clinical stage and TP53 mutation status of OC. The genetic variation and interaction of the GATA family may be closely related to the pathogenesis and prognosis of OC, and the regulatory network composed of GATA family genes and their neighboring genes are mainly involved in Notch signaling pathway, Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation and Hippo signaling pathway. Transcriptional GATA1/2/3/4/6 could be prognostic markers and potential therapeutic target for OC patients.
Effects of local cryotherapy on systemic endothelial activation, dysfunction, and vascular inflammation in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rats
Authors: Peyronnel C. , Totoson P. , Petitcolin V. , Bonnefoy F. , Guillot X. , Saas P. , Verhoeven F. , Martin H. , Demougeot C.
Published: April 2022

Aim

This study explored the systemic vascular effects of local cryotherapy with a focus on endothelial changes and arterial inflammation in the model of rat adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA).

Methods

Cryotherapy was applied twice a day on hind paws of AIA rats from the onset of arthritis to the acute inflammatory phase. Endothelial activation was studied in the aorta by measuring the mRNA levels of chemokines (CXCL-1, MCP-1 (CCL-2), MIP-1α (CCL-3)) and adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1) by qRT-PCR. Endothelial dysfunction was measured in isolated aortic and mesenteric rings. Aortic inflammation was evaluated via the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) by qRT-PCR and leucocyte infiltration analysis (flow cytometry). Plasma levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-17A, and osteoprotegerin (OPG) were measured using Multiplex/ELISA.

Results

AIA was associated with an increased aortic expression of CXCL-1 and ICAM-1 as well as an infiltration of leucocytes and increased mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Local cryotherapy, which decreased arthritis score and structural damages, reduced aortic mRNA expression of CXCL-1, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, as well as aortic infiltration of leucocytes (T lymphocytes, monocytes/macrophages, neutrophils) and improved acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation in the aorta and mesenteric arteries. Plasma levels of IL-17A and OPG were significantly reduced by cryotherapy, while the number of circulating leucocytes was not. IL-17A levels positively correlated with endothelial activation and dysfunction.

Conclusion

In the AIA model, local cryotherapy reduced systemic endothelial activation, immune cell infiltration, and endothelial dysfunction. Mechanistically, the reduction of circulating levels of IL-17A appears as the possible link between joint cooling and the remote vascular effects.
Validation of aortic valve pressure gradient quantification using semi-automated 4D flow CMR pipeline
Authors: Grafton-Clarke Ciaran , Njoku Paul , Aben Jean-Paul , Ledoux Leon , Zhong Liang , Westenberg Jos , Swift Andrew , Archer Gareth , Wild James , Hose Rod , Flather Marcus , Vassiliou Vassilios S. , Garg Pankaj
Published: April 2022

Objective

Doppler echocardiographic aortic valve peak velocity and peak pressure gradient assessment across the aortic valve (AV) is the mainstay for diagnosing aortic stenosis. Four-dimensional flow cardiovascular magnetic resonance (4D flow CMR) is emerging as a valuable diagnostic tool for estimating the peak pressure drop across the aortic valve, but assessment remains cumbersome.

We aimed to validate a novel semi-automated pipeline 4D flow CMR method of assessing peak aortic value pressure gradient (AVPG) using the commercially available software solution, CAAS MR Solutions, against invasive angiographic methods.

Results

We enrolled 11 patients with severe AS on echocardiography from the EurValve programme. All patients had pre-intervention doppler echocardiography, invasive cardiac catheterisation with peak pressure drop assessment across the AV and 4D flow CMR.

The peak AVPG was 51.9 ± 35.2 mmHg using the invasive pressure drop method and 52.2 ± 29.2 mmHg for the 4D flow CMR method (semi-automated pipeline), with good correlation between the two methods (r = 0.70, p = 0.017).

Assessment of AVPG by 4D flow CMR using the novel semi-automated pipeline method shows excellent agreement to invasive assessment when compared to doppler-based methods and advocate for its use as complementary to echocardiography.
Aggressive giant prolactinoma: a case report
Authors: Borhan Marisa Khatijah , Tan Florence Hui Sieng
Published: April 2022

Background

Managing treatment-resistant aggressive giant prolactinoma can be challenging, as the diagnosis is often complex, and treatment beyond dopamine agonists, surgery, and radiotherapy is limited.

Case presentation

A 21-year-old Malay woman first presented to our hospital at the age of 16 years with 1-year history of reduced vision and 2 years of amenorrhea. Her baseline prolactin level was 255,894 µIU/mL with secondary hypogonadism, and pituitary magnetic resonance imaging revealed a giant prolactinoma (2.8 × 3.2 × 4.2 cm3) with suprasellar extension and optic chiasmal compression. She was initially treated with cabergoline, and reductions in the prolactin level and tumor mass were achieved, leading to vision improvement and resumption of normal menstruation. However, she developed recurrent tumor growth and hyperprolactinemia, causing relapse of symptoms, and she needed surgery. Eventually, despite three tumor debulking surgeries and escalation of cabergoline doses up to 1 mg/day, her tumor progressed with aggressive characteristics. Following a multidisciplinary meeting, the patient is initiated on temozolomide therapy after considering the long-term side effects of radiotherapy in her case.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of early identification of treatment-resistant prolactinoma and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in managing aggressive prolactinoma in young patients, particularly regarding timely implementation of temozolomide therapy.
A scenario-based volcanic hazard assessment for the Mount Meager Volcanic Complex, British Columbia
Authors: Warwick Rachel , Williams-Jones Glyn , Kelman Melanie , Witter Jeffrey
Published: April 2022

The Mount Meager Volcanic Complex (Mount Meager) is a glacier-clad stratovolcanic system in southwestern British Columbia which last erupted over 2400 years ago (VEI 4). While this is Canada’s most recent major explosive eruption, most past research on Mount Meager has focused on its numerous and large volume landslides and thus the volcanic hazard characteristics remain understudied. Here we present a suite of scenario-based hazard maps and an assessment addressing a range of potential future explosive eruptions and associated hazards. In order to overcome limited knowledge of the eruptive history, numerical models have been used to simulate the primary syneruptive hazards of concern (dome-collapse pyroclastic density currents, lahars and tephra fallout) largely utilizing eruption parameters from analogous volcanoes, i.e., glacier-clad stratovolcanoes in a subduction zone setting. This study provides a framework for similar volcanic hazard studies where geologic data is limited, funds are minimal, and access is difficult. Furthermore, this sets the stage for recognizing volcanic hazards in the Canadian landscape, providing a resource to prepare for and mitigate potential impacts well in advance of a crisis situation.
5-ASA induced interstitial nephritis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review
Authors: Moss James G. , Parry Christopher M. , Holt Richard C. L. , McWilliam Stephen J.
Published: April 2022

Background

Acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) is an important cause of kidney injury accounting for up to 27% of unexplained renal impairment. In up to 70% of cases, drugs, including aminosalicylates, are reported as the underlying cause. Following two recent paediatric cases of suspected mesalazine induced AIN within our own department, we performed a systematic review of the literature to address the following question: In patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is interstitial nephritis associated with 5-aminosalicylate (5-ASA) treatment? Our primary objective was to identify the number of cases reported in the literature of biopsy-proven 5-ASA induced interstitial nephritis, in children and adults with IBD. We also aimed to identify which variables influence the onset, severity and recovery of 5-ASA interstitial nephritis.

Methods

Embase and PubMed databases were searched from inception to 07/10/20. Search terms had three main themes: “inflammatory bowel disease”, “interstitial nephritis” and “aminosalicylates”. Studies were included if they reported an outcome of AIN, confirmed on biopsy, suspected to be secondary to a 5-ASA drug in those with IBD. A narrative synthesis was performed.

Results

Forty-one case reports were identified. Mesalazine was the most frequently reported aminosalicylate associated with AIN (95%). The median duration of treatment before AIN was diagnosed was 2.3 years (Interquartile Range (IQR) 12–48 months). The median rise in creatinine was 3.3 times the baseline measurement (IQR 2.5–5.5). Aminosalicylate withdrawal and steroids were the most frequently used treatments. Despite treatment, 15% of patients developed end-stage renal failure.

Conclusions

AIN is a serious adverse drug reaction associated with aminosalicylates, with mesalazine accounting for most reports. The current guidance of annual monitoring of renal function may not be sufficient to identify cases early. Given the severity of AIN and reports in the literature that early treatment with steroids may be beneficial, we would recommend at least 6 monthly monitoring of renal function.

PROSPERO registration number CRD42020205387.
A comparison of knowledge and attitude toward mental illness among secondary school students and teachers
Authors: Al Omari Omar , Khalaf Atika , Al Hashmi Iman , Al Qadire Mohammad , Abu Shindi Yousef , Al Sabei Sulaiman , Matani Nasir , Jesudoss Devanprabudoss
Published: April 2022

Aim

The current study aimed to assess and compare the level of knowledge and attitude towards mental illness between secondary school students and their teachers in Oman.

Methods

An online survey was carried out to collect data from 400 students and 411 teachers about their knowledge and attitudes toward people with mental illness. Two independent case studies about depression and schizophrenia were also tested.

Results

Students have a poor knowledge of mental illness compared with their teachers, as more than half scored less than 60% compared with 16.5% of the teachers. More than two-thirds of the students (80%) and teachers (76.4%) have a low or minor positive attitude toward people with mental illness. The study identified significant differences in knowledge in favour of teachers, although the opposite was found regarding attitudes.

Conclusions

Since students spend a significant amount of time in school, bridging the gap between teachers' and students’ knowledge and attitudes toward mental illness is an essential part in enhancing the knowledge and attitudes of the students. In addition, knowledgeable teachers with positive attitude can assist in early identification of mental illnesses and help students when needed. In turn, students who possess knowledge and positive attitude toward mental illness can share their concerns with their teachers. In the presence of such accepting and cooperative environment, the stigma can be decreased and early detection of mental illness and help-seeking behaviour can be promoted.
Reinfection in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review
Authors: Ren Xiangying , Zhou Jie , Guo Jing , Hao Chunmei , Zheng Mengxue , Zhang Rong , Huang Qiao , Yao Xiaomei , Li Ruiling , Jin Yinghui
Published: April 2022

Background

With the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, some COVID-19 patients have become reinfected with the virus. Viral gene sequencing has found that some of these patients were reinfected by the different and others by same strains. This has raised concerns about the effectiveness of immunity after infection and the reliability of vaccines. To this end, we conducted a systematic review to assess the characteristics of patients with reinfection and possible causes.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across eight databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, WanFang, VIP and SinoMed from December 1, 2019 to September 1, 2021.The quality of included studies were assessed using JBI critical appraisal tools and Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Results

This study included 50 studies from 20 countries. There were 118 cases of reinfection. Twenty-five patients were reported to have at least one complication. The shortest duration between the first infection and reinfection was 19 days and the longest was 293 days. During the first infection and reinfection, cough (51.6% and 43.9%) and fever (50% and 30.3%) were the most common symptoms respectively. Nine patients recovered, seven patients died, and five patients were hospitalized, but 97 patients’ prognosis were unknown. B.1 is the most common variant strain at the first infection. B.1.1.7, B.1.128 and B.1.351 were the most common variant strains at reinfection. Thirty-three patients were infected by different strains and 9 patients were reported as being infected with the same strain.

Conclusions

Our research shows that it is possible for rehabilitated patients to be reinfected by SARS-COV-2. To date, the causes and risk factors of COVID-19 reinfection are not fully understood. For patients with reinfection, the diagnosis and management should be consistent with the treatment of the first infection. The public, including rehabilitated patients, should be fully vaccinated, wear masks in public places, and pay attention to maintaining social distance to avoid reinfection with the virus.
Fungal and viral entomopathogens as a combined strategy for the biological control of fall armyworm larvae in maize
Authors: Gómez-Valderrama Juliana , Cuartas-Otálora Paola , Espinel-Correal Carlos , Barrera-Cubillos Gloria , Villamizar-Rivero Laura
Published: April 2022

Background

The fall armywormSpodoptera frugiperdais one of the major pests in maize crops, causing important production losses. The pest has rapidly spread worldwide, generating an urgent need to develop efficient and sustainable strategies for its control. In this work, the potential of integrating nucleopolyhedrovirus- (NPV) and the fungusMetarhizium rileyito controlS. frugiperdalarvae was evaluated under laboratory, greenhouse, and field conditions.

Methods

The mortality ofS. frugiperdalarvae was evaluated after the application of NPV andM. rileyialone or in combination using three concentrations (high, medium and low) under laboratory conditions. Then, two greenhouse trials using maize plants were carried out to evaluate the effect of individual or combined applications of NPV andM. rileyionS. frugiperdamortality (first trial) and fresh damage (second trial). Finally, a trial under field conditions was conducted to evaluate the performance of the treatment selected in the greenhouse assay.

Results

The combined use of NPV:M. rileyiapplied simultaneously showed an additive effect in laboratory, causing higher larval mortality than the biocontrol agents used separately. This effect was evident in the mixtures using the concentration levels high:medium, medium:medium, and medium:high. Under greenhouse conditions, the use of a 50:50 ratio of the two entomopathogens also caused higher larval mortality and a significantly reduced insect damage to plants. Finally, under field conditions, the individual or sequential application of NPV andM. rileyiusing 100% of their recommended doses, and the simultaneous application of both entomopathogens at 50% of their recommended doses, significantly reduced the recent foliar damage to levels under the threshold for economic losses (30% fresh damage) while the damage reached 43% when control measures were not used.

Conclusion

The combined application of NPV andM. rileyi(two biocontrol agents with different mode of action) demonstrated an additive effect that allows to reduce to half their recommended application doses. In this context, the integration of both entomopathogens is a promising strategy to manageS. frugiperda,contributing to improve the economic feasibility of biological control tools for the sustainable fall armyworm management.
Clinical Outcomes of Patients With B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Real-World Settings: Findings From the Hemato-Oncology Latin America Observational Registry Study
Authors: Pavlovsky Miguel , Cubero Daniel , Agreda-Vásquez Gladys Patricia , Enrico Alicia , Mela-Osorio Maria J. , San Sebastián Jorge Armenta , Fogliatto Laura , Ovilla Roberto , Avendano Oscar , Machnicki Gerardo , Barreyro Paula , Trufelli Damila , Villanova Pamella
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE

Real-world evidence on non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) management in Latin America is currently lacking. The objective of this study was to describe treatment characteristics and outcomes of NHL in Latin America.

METHODS

A total of 2,967 patients with NHL with aggressive and indolent subtypes, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma (FL), mantle-cell lymphoma (MCL), and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, with incident or prevalent diagnosis between 2006 and 2015, were retrospectively identified using clinical charts registered in the Hemato-Oncology Latin America Observational Registry. Associations between treatment regimen and age at diagnosis with clinical outcomes within each subtype were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression.

RESULTS

Most patients with NHL received 1L chemoimmunotherapy, most commonly cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) with/without rituximab. Five-year survival rates were higher for MALT lymphoma (90.8%) and FL (87.6%) versus DLBCL (69.0%) and MCL (57.1%), with variations between countries. The median overall survival from first relapse for patients with DLBCL was 6.6 years, with lower risk of death for those diagnosed at age < 65 years (hazard ratio = 0.732; P = .0161). Patients achieved a longer median progression-free survival with 1L rituximab-CHOP (R-CHOP) versus CHOP or rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone (RCVP) (7.7 v 3.0 or 1.8 years, respectively). Use of regimens other than R-CHOP was associated with a higher risk of death/progression for patients with DLBCL (rituximab, ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide/ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide) and FL (CHOP). There was no relationship between treatment prescribed and age at diagnosis with outcomes from first/second relapse in DLBCL and FL.

CONCLUSION

Differences in treatment outcomes between NHL subtypes were observed, reflecting variations in NHL management and barriers to treatment access in Latin America. These data provide necessary evidence to understand NHL management in this region and highlight the need to improve treatment outcomes for these patients.
The Effect of Endogenous Cushing Syndrome on All-cause and Cause-specific Mortality
Authors: Limumpornpetch Padiporn , Morgan Ann W , Tiganescu Ana , Baxter Paul D , Nyawira Nyaga Victoria , Pujades-Rodriguez Mar , Stewart Paul M
Published: April 2022

Objective

We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of all-cause and cause-specific mortality of patients with benign endogenous Cushing syndrome (CS).

Methods

The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017067530). PubMed, EMBASE, CINHAL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central searches were undertaken from inception to January 2021. Outcomes were the standardized mortality ratio (SMR), proportion, and cause of deaths. The I2 test, subgroup analysis, and meta-regression were used to assess heterogeneity across studies.

Results

SMR was reported in 14 articles including 3691 patients (13 Cushing disease [CD] and 7 adrenal CS [ACS] cohorts). Overall SMR was 3.0 (95% CI, 2.3-3.9; I2 = 80.5%) for all CS, 2.8 (95% CI, 2.1-3.7; I2 = 81.2%) for CD and 3.3 (95% CI, 0.5-6.6; I2 = 77.9%) for ACS. Proportion of deaths, reported in 87 articles including 19 181 CS patients (53 CD, 24 ACS, and 20 combined CS cohorts), was 0.05 (95% CI, 0.03-0.06) for all CS subtypes with meta-regression analysis revealing no differences between CS subtypes (P = .052). The proportion of deaths was 0.1 (10%) in articles published before 2000 and 0.03 (3%) in 2000 until the last search for CS (P < .001), CD (P < .001), and ACS (P = .01). The causes of death were atherosclerotic diseases and thromboembolism (43.4%), infection (12.7%), malignancy (10.6%), active disease (3.5%), adrenal insufficiency (3.0%), and suicide (2.2%). Despite improved outcomes in recent years, increased mortality from CS persists. The causes of death highlight the need to prevent and manage comorbidities in addition to treating hypercortisolism.
A Novel Approach to Microvascular Decompression for Hemifacial Spasm: Method Description and Associated Outcomes
Authors: Nagahiro Shinji , Mizobuchi Yoshifumi , Nakajima Kohei , Takagi Yasushi
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND:

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is the only potential cure for hemifacial spasm (HFS). However, traditional techniques such as the interposition method may have limited effect in some cases. Alternative techniques have been proposed; however, they can be more complex or difficult to perform than the standard approach.

OBJECTIVE:

To describe a safe decompression technique—the “shelter method”—which involves creating a shelter-like space around the facial nerve root exit zone and present associated outcomes.

METHODS:

Medical records and intraoperative findings of 92 patients with HFS who underwent MVD using the shelter method between April 1997 and March 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. As a historical control group, we included 53 patients who had undergone MVD by the traditional interposition method before March 1989. The patients were divided into 3 subgroups according to the arteries involved and degree or direction of arterial compression to the seventh nerve. Patient outcomes were assessed as excellent, good, fair, and poor according to the MVD scoring system of the Japan Society for MVD Surgery.

RESULTS:

In the shelter method group, complete disappearance of HFS was achieved in 87 patients (94.6%). The curative rate of the shelter method group was significantly higher than that of the interposition method group. The overall complication rates were significantly lower in the shelter method group than in the interposition method group.

CONCLUSION:

Our findings indicate high curative and low complication rates of the shelter method, suggesting that it helps treat HFS caused by various types of arterial compression.
Endoscope-Assisted Retroperitoneal Prepsoas Approach to Lumbar Intervertebral Disk Decompression. Technical Note
Authors: Mao Gordon , Pennington Zach , Liu Ann , Theodore Nicholas
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND:

Increasingly there is an impetus on the part of surgeons to find more minimally invasive approaches to treat spinal pathologies. Retroperitoneal prepsoas and transpsoas approaches to the lumbar spine are one such example gaining increased attention. Endoscope-assisted approaches may help further reduce soft tissue dissection.

OBJECTIVE:

To describe an endoscope-assisted lateral retroperitoneal prepsoas approach for lumbar diskectomy.

METHODS:

Two fresh-frozen thoracolumbar cadaveric specimens were obtained and placed in the right lateral decubitus position. Using a left-sided, retroperitoneal prepsoas approach to the lumbar spine and under endoscopic visualization, diskectomies were performed at the L2/3, L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S1 intervertebral spaces. Qualitative assessment of the extent of central and contralateral foraminal decompression was performed.

RESULTS:

The endoscope was found to provide effective visualization at all disk spaces and combined with the anterior retroperitoneal prepsoas approach allowed for effective decompression of all explored disk spaces. Both operators noted difficulty obtaining visualization of the ipsilateral foramen, but adequate central and contralateral foraminal decompression was achievable for central, paracentral, and contralateral far lateral disk protrusions.

CONCLUSION:

Endoscope assistance may improve visualization of the lumbar intervertebral disk spaces during retroperitoneal prepsoas approaches and thereby help to expand the surgical indication for anterior and oblique lumbar interbody fusion.
Aldh2 is a lineage-specific metabolic gatekeeper in melanocyte stem cells
Authors: Brunsdon Hannah , Brombin Alessandro , Peterson Samuel , Postlethwait John H. , Patton E. Elizabeth
Published: April 2022

Melanocyte stem cells (McSCs) in zebrafish serve as an on-demand source of melanocytes during growth and regeneration, but metabolic programs associated with their activation and regenerative processes are not well known. Here, using live imaging coupled with scRNA-sequencing, we discovered that, during regeneration, quiescent McSCs activate a dormant embryonic neural crest transcriptional program followed by an aldehyde dehydrogenase (Aldh) 2 metabolic switch to generate progeny. Unexpectedly, although ALDH2 is well known for its aldehyde-clearing mechanisms, we find that, in regenerating McSCs, Aldh2 activity is required to generate formate – the one-carbon (1C) building block for nucleotide biosynthesis – through formaldehyde metabolism. Consequently, we find that disrupting the 1C cycle with low doses of methotrexate causes melanocyte regeneration defects. In the absence of Aldh2, we find that purines are the metabolic end product sufficient for activated McSCs to generate progeny. Together, our work reveals McSCs undergo a two-step cell state transition during regeneration, and that the reaction products of Aldh2 enzymes have tissue-specific stem cell functions that meet metabolic demands in regeneration.
Seasonal changes in membrane structure and excitability in retinal neurons of goldfish (Carassius auratus) under constant environmental conditions
Authors: Country Michael W. , Haase Kristina , Blank Katrin , Canez Carlos R. , Roberts Joshua A. , Campbell Benjamin F. N. , Smith Jeffrey C. , Pelling Andrew E. , Jonz Michael G.
Published: April 2022

Seasonal modifications in the structure of cellular membranes occur as an adaptive measure to withstand exposure to prolonged environmental change. Little is known about whether such changes occur independently of external cues, such as photoperiod or temperature, or how they may impact the central nervous system. We compared membrane properties of neurons isolated from the retina of goldfish (Carassius auratus), an organism well adapted to extreme environmental change, during the summer and winter months. Goldfish were maintained in a facility under constant environmental conditions throughout the year. Analysis of whole-retina phospholipid composition using mass spectrometry-based lipidomics revealed a twofold increase in phosphatidylethanolamine species during the winter, suggesting an increase in cell membrane fluidity. Atomic force microscopy was used to produce localized, nanoscale-force deformation of neuronal membranes. Measurement of Young's modulus indicated increased membrane–cortical stiffness (or decreased elasticity) in neurons isolated during the winter. Voltage-clamp electrophysiology was used to assess physiological changes in neurons between seasons. Winter neurons displayed a hyperpolarized reversal potential (Vrev) and a significantly lower input resistance (Rin) compared with summer neurons. This was indicative of a decrease in membrane excitability during the winter. Subsequent measurement of intracellular Ca2+ activity using Fura-2 microspectrofluorometry confirmed a reduction in action potential activity, including duration and action potential profile, in neurons isolated during the winter. These studies demonstrate chemical and biophysical changes that occur in retinal neurons of goldfish throughout the year without exposure to seasonal cues, and suggest a novel mechanism of seasonal regulation of retinal activity.
Mortality, Temperature, and Public Health Provision: Evidence from Mexico
Authors: Cohen François , Dechezleprêtre Antoine
Published: April 2022

We examine the impact of temperature on mortality in Mexico using daily data over the period 1998–2017 and find that 3.8 percent of deaths in Mexico are caused by suboptimal temperature (26,000 every year). However, 92 percent of weather-related deaths are induced by cold (<12°C) or mildly cold ( 12–20°C) days and only 2 percent by outstandingly hot days (>32°C). Furthermore, temperatures are twice as likely to kill people in the bottom half of the income distribution. Finally, we show causal evidence that the Seguro Popular, a universal health care policy, has saved at least 1,600 lives per year from cold weather since 2004. (JEL I12, I13, I14, O13, O15, Q54)
The Long-Term Effects of Measles Vaccination on Earnings and Employment
Authors: Atwood Alicia
Published: April 2022

The measles vaccine was introduced in 1963. Take-up of the vaccine in the United States occurred quickly and universally, leading to reductions in morbidity and mortality. New biological evidence on how the measles virus interacts with our immune system indicates the impact of the measles vaccine may be underestimated. Using a difference-in-difference identification strategy, I find evidence the measles vaccine increased earnings and employment. Long-term follow-up of adults finds an increase in income of 1. 1 percent and positive effects on employment. This increase in income is not from an increase in hours worked but rather from greater productivity. (JEL I12, I18, J22, J24, J31)
Do Environmental Regulations Affect the Decision to Export?
Authors: Cherniwchan Jevan , Najjar Nouri
Published: April 2022

This paper investigates how a common form of environmental regulation—air quality standards—affects exporters. We develop a simple theoretical model to show how the design of these standards causes (i) some firms to stop exporting and (ii) a reduction in the export volumes of affected continuing exporters. We exploit quasi-experimental variation resulting from the design of Canadian air quality standards to test these predictions empirically. Our estimates confirm our model’s predictions: we find that for the most affected manufacturers, regulation reduced export volumes by 32  percent and increased the likelihood plants stop exporting by 5 percentage points. (JEL D12, F14, F18, Q53, Q58)
How Do Beliefs about the Gender Wage Gap Affect the Demand for Public Policy?
Authors: Settele Sonja
Published: April 2022

I conduct a survey experiment to study the relationship between people’s beliefs about the size of the gender wage gap and their demand for policies aimed at mitigating it. Beliefs causally affect support for equal pay legislation and affirmative action programs, but cannot account for the polarization in policy views by partisanship and gender. Changes in policy demand seem to be driven by changes in beliefs about discrimination in labor markets and fairness concerns, while self-interest appears less important. I provide evidence that pessimism about the effectiveness of government intervention limits the elasticity of policy demand to perceived wage differentials. (JEL D63, D83, J16, J22, J31, J71)