bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Leishmaniasis adequately notified in Sri Lanka? A survey among doctors from high endemic district of Sri Lanka.
Authors: Hewawasam Chandana , Weerakoon Hema S , Thilakan Vyshnavi , Lelwala Tishni , Prasanka Kalana , Rathnayaka Amila S , Gamage Shanika , Agampodi Suneth
Published: March 2020

Background: Leishmaniasis is a notifiable disease in Sri Lanka since 2008. Previous studies show a gap in the notification of leishmaniasis. Purpose of the present study was to determine the Knowledge, attitudes and practice of medical officers regarding leishmaniasis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Anuradhapura district which reported the highest prevalence of leishmaniasis. Medical officers from public and private health care institutes in the area filled a self-administered questionnaire in the presence of the investigators. Results: One hundred and eighty-eight (188) medical officers completed the questionnaire. Of them, 95.7% were aware of leishmaniasis as a parasitic infection and 84.7% correctly identified Leishmania donovani as the causative organism in Sri Lanka. From the respondents, 181 (96.8%) knew that the vector of leishmaniasis is sandfly. Cutaneous leishmaniasis was reported as the most prevalent form of leishmaniasis in the country by 176 (94.1%). Nearly half of the respondents (98, 54.1%) was aware of the fact that the Anuradhapura district has the highest prevalence of the disease. Many of them had the idea that leishmaniasis is an emerging disease (155, 84.3%,) and early diagnosis is important in controlling the disease (163, 89.1%). Although about three fourth (123, 73.7 %,) of the participants mentioned that leishmaniasis should be notified at first clinical suspicion, only 74 (42.5%) were aware that it is a legal requirement. Some medical officers (39, 22%) believed that the current notification system in the country is not effective. Unavailability of notification forms (60, 36.8%) heavy workload (85, 50.3%) and inadequate supportive staff (55, 35.1%) were reported as barriers for timely notification. Even though 105 (58.0%) of medical officers had suspected leishmaniasis during last eight years period only 35 (19.4%) had notified. Conclusions: Even though more than 90% of the participants had good theoretical knowledge about leishmaniasis; notification of leishmaniasis is considerably inadequate. This study emphasizes the need for greater efforts to improve the notification of leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka.
Homoprejudiced violence among Chinese men who have sex with men: A cross-sectional analysis in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Wu Dan , Yang Eileen , Huang Wenting , Tang Weiming , Xu Huifang , Liu Chuncheng , Baral Stefan , Day Suzanne , Tucker Joseph D.
Published: March 2020

Background
Homoprejudiced violence, defined as physical, verbal, psychological and cyber aggression against others because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation, is an important public health issue. Most homoprejudiced violence research has been conducted in high-income countries. This study aimed to examine the experience and perpetration of homoprejudiced violence among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Guangzhou, China.
Methods
MSM in a large Chinese city, Guangzhou, completed an online survey instrument that was distributed through community-based organizations. Descriptive analysis was conducted to describe the sample characteristics. Multivariable logistic regression analyses, controlling for age, residence, occupation, heterosexual marriage, education and income, were carried out to explore associated factors.
Results
A total of 777 responses were analyzed and most (64.9%) were under the age of 30. Three-hundred-ninety-nine (51.4%) reported experiencing homoprejudiced violence, while 205 (25.9%) reported initiating homoprejudiced violence against others. Compared to respondents who self-identified as gay, respondents who were heterosexual were 0.6 times (AOR=0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-0.9) as likely to have experienced homoprejudiced violence, whereas those who were unsure about their sexual orientation were 2.6 times (AOR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.2-5.5) more likely to have experienced homoprejudiced violence before. Furthermore, a strong association (AOR=2,4. 95% CI: 1.6-3.5) was identified between experiencing homoprejudiced violence and initiating violence. MSM who had disclosed their sexual orientation to people other than their partners were more likely to have experienced homoprejudiced violence (AOR=1.8, 95% CI:1.3-2.5).
Conclusions
These findings suggest the importance of research and the implementation of interventions focused on preventing and mitigating the effects of homoprejudiced violence affecting MSM in China.
Polystyrene microplastics do not affect juvenile brow trout (Salmo trutta f. fario) or modulate effect of the pesticide methiocarb
Authors: Schmieg Hannah , Huppertsberg Sven , Knepper Thomas P. , Krais Stefanie , Reitter Katharina , Rezbach Felicitas , Ruhl Aki S. , Köhler Heinz R. , Triebskorn Rita
Published: March 2020

Background

There has been a rising interest within the scientific community and the public about the environmental risk related to the abundance of microplastics in aquatic environments. Up to now, however, scientific knowledge in this context has been scarce and insufficient for a reliable risk assessment.
To remedy this scarcity of data, we investigated possible adverse effects of polystyrene particles (10^4 particles/L) and the pesticide methiocarb (1 mg/L) in juvenile brow trout (Salmo trutta f. fario) both by themselves as well as in combination after a 96 h laboratory exposure. PS beads (density 1.05 g/mL) were cryogenically milled and fractionated resulting in irregular shaped particles (<50 µm). Besides body weight of the animals, biomarkers for proteotoxicity (stress protein family Hsp70), oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation), and neurotoxicity (acetylcholinesterase, carboxylesterases) were analysed. As an indicator of overall health, histopathological effects were studied in liver and gills of exposed fish.

Results

Polystyrene particles by themselves did not influence any of the investigated biomarkers. In contrast, the exposure to methiocarb led to a significant reduction of the activity of acetylcholinesterase and the two carboxylesterases. Moreover, the tissue integrity of liver and gills was impaired by the pesticide. Body weight, the oxidative stress and the stress protein levels were not influenced by methiocarb. Effects caused by co-exposure of polystyrene microplastics and methiocarb were the same as those caused by methiocarb alone.

Conclusions

Overall, methiocarb led to negative effects in juvenile brown trout. In contrast, polystyrene microplastics in the tested concentration did not affect the health of juvenile brown trout and did not modulate the toxicity of methiocarb in this fish species.
Can direct smear results that are routinely collected at health centre level be used for monitoring the impact of mass drug administration with praziquantel on schistosomiasis in Burundi? A preliminary assessment.
Authors: BIZIMANA Paul , POLMAN Katja , ORTU Giuseppina , KRIT Meryam , NSABIYUMVA Frédéric , NKESHIMANA Audace , BIJABUKA Urlich , NIBAKIRE Marcelline , GEERTRUYDEN Jean-Pierre VAN
Published: March 2020

Background : Intestinal schistosomiasis is still a public health problem in Burundi. Since 2008, annual mass drug administration with praziquantel have been rolled out in 11 endemic districts. The national programme relies on school-based surveys with Kato-Katz to monitor the impact of mass drug administration. We explored whether routine data on intestinal schistosomiasis as determined by direct fecal smears at health centre level could be used.

Methods : From the Burundian National Health Information System, we collected routine incidence data on intestinal schistosomiasis as determined by direct smear examination in all 45 sanitary districts between 2011 and 2015. A temporal trends analysis was performed using a mixed negative binomial regression. Sanitary districts with mass drug administration campaigns with praziquantel (n=11) were compared with those without (n=34). In addition, prevalence data on intestinal schistosomiasis based on Kato-Katz results from a school-based national mapping in 2014 were compared with the incidence data in health centres based on direct smear results, in the same 45 sanitary districts.

Findings : In the 11 sanitary districts applying mass drug administration with praziquantel, the incidence rate decreased significantly for the years 2014 (β 2014 = -0.826, p = 0.010) and 2015 (β 2015 = -1.294, p < 0.001) and for the five-year period (β = -0.286, p < 0.001), whereas in the 34 districts where mass drug administration was not delivered, there was no significant decrease over time (β = -0.087, p = 0.219). In most of the 45 sanitary districts, the low prevalences based on Kato-Katz in schoolchildren were confirmed by low incidence rates based on direct smear in the health centres.

Conclusions : National Health Information System surveillance data, based on routinely collected direct smear results at health centre level, may be able to monitor the impact of mass drug administration with praziquantel on intestinal schistosomiasis in Burundi. Control and elimination of intestinal schistosomiasis call for integration of adequate diagnosis and treatment into routine activities of primary health care facilities, as recommended by the World Health Organization since more than 20 years. When moving towards elimination, more sensitive tests, such as the Point-of-care Circulating Cathodic Antigen assay are desirable.

Keywords : Burundi; direct smear; health centre; mass drug administration; monitoring; routine data; praziquantel; schistosomiasis
Incidence of Hypertension among Persons Living with HIV in China: A Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Fan Hongwei , guo fuping , Hsieh Evelyn , Chen Wei-Ti , Lv Wei , Han Yang , Xie Jing , Li Yanling , Song Xiaojing , Li Taisheng
Published: March 2020

Background

Life expectancy among persons living with HIV (PLWH) has improved with increasing access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), however incidence of chronic comorbidities has simultaneously increased. No data are available regarding the incidence of hypertension among Chinese PLWH.

Methods

We analyzed data collected from patients enrolled in two prospective longitudinal multicenter studies of PLWH initiating ART in China. Incidence rate of hypertension per 100 person-years (PYs) among PLWH was calculated, and Cox proportional hazards models was used to evaluate the association between incident hypertension and traditional and HIV-associated risk factors.

Results

Of 1078 patients included in this analysis, 984 ART-naïve patients were hypertension-free at baseline, and contributed 2337.7 PYs of follow up, with a median follow-up period of 1.8 years (range: 1.2-3.2) after initiation of ART. Incidence of hypertension was 7.6 [95% confidence interval (CI): 6.5-8.7] per 100 PYs. In the Cox regression analysis, incidence of hypertension was positively associated with body mass index [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.07 (1.01,1.13), p=0.02] and recent viral load (aHR 1.28, 95% CI:1.08-1.51, p=0), and negatively associated with recent CD4+/CD8+ ratio (aHR 0.14, 95% CI:0.06-0.31, p<0.001), zidovudine exposure (aHR 0.15, 95% CI: 0.10-0.24, p<0.001) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate exposure (aHR 0.13, 95% CI: 0.08-0.21, p<0.001).

Conclusions

The incidence of hypertension was relatively high among Chinese PLWH initiating ART. Recent low CD4+/CD8+ ratio and detectable HIV viremia were associated with incident hypertension, whereas receipt of ART was associated with reduced risk . Hypertension may be mitigated, in part, by excellent HIV care, including viral suppression with ART.
An educational pathway and teaching materials for first aid training of children in Sub-Saharan Africa based on the best available evidence
Authors: De Buck Emmy , Laermans Jorien , Vanhove Anne-Catherine , Dockx Kim , Vandekerckhove Philippe , Geduld Heike
Published: March 2020

Background

First aid training is a cost-effective way to decrease the burden of disease and injury in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Since evidence from Western countries has shown that children are able to learn first aid, first aid training of children in LMIC may be a promising way forward. Hence, our project aim was to develop contextualized materials to train Sub-Saharan African children in first aid, based on the best available evidence.

Methods

Systematic literature searches were conducted to identify studies on first aid education to children up to 18 years old (research question one), and studies investigating different teaching approaches (broader than first aid) in LMIC (research question two). A multidisciplinary expert panel translated the evidence to the context of Sub-Saharan Africa, and evidence and expert input were used to develop teaching materials.

Results

For question one, we identified 58 studies, measuring the effect of training children in resuscitation, first aid for skin wounds, poisoning etc. For question two, two systematic reviews were included from which we selected 36 studies, revealing the effectiveness of several pedagogical methods, such as problem-solving instruction and small-group instruction. However, the certainty of the evidence was low to very low. Hence expert input was necessary to formulate training objectives and age ranges based on “good practice” whenever the quantity or quality of the evidence was limited. The experts also placed the available evidence against the African context.

Conclusions

The above approach resulted in an educational pathway (i.e. a scheme with educational goals concerning first aid for different age groups), a list of recommended educational approaches, and first aid teaching materials for children, based on the best available evidence and adapted to the African context.
Genome-wide genetic structure and selection signatures for color in 10 traditional Chinese yellow-feathered chicken breeds
Authors: Huang Xunhe , Otecko Newton O. , Peng Minsheng , Weng Zhuoxian , Li Weina , Chen Jiebo , Zhong Ming , Zhong Fusheng , Jin Sihua , Geng Zhaoyu , Luo Wei , He Danlin , Ma Cheng , Han Jianlin , Ommeh Sheila C. , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Xiquan , Du Bingwang
Published: March 2020

Background: Yellow-feathered chickens (YFCs) have a long history in China. They are well-known for the nutritional and commercial importance attributable to their yellow color phenotype. Currently, there is a huge paucity in knowledge of the genetic determinants responsible for phenotypic and biochemical properties of these iconic chickens. This study aimed to uncover the genetic structure and the molecular underpinnings of the YFCs trademark coloration.Results: The whole-genomes of 100 YFCs from 10 major traditional breeds and 10 Huaibei partridge chickens from China were re-sequenced. Comparative population genomics based on autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revealed three geographically based clusters among the YFCs. Compared to other Chinese indigenous chicken genomes incorporated from previous studies, a closer genetic proximity within YFC breeds than between YFC breeds and other chicken populations is evident. Through genome-wide scans for selective sweeps, we identified RALY heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (RALY), leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4), solute carrier family 23 member 2 (SLC23A2), and solute carrier family 2 member 14 (SLC2A14), besides the classical beta-carotene dioxygenase 2 (BCDO2), as major candidates pigment determining genes in the YFCs.Conclusion: We provide the first comprehensive genomic data of the YFCs. Our analyses show phylogeographical patterns among the YFCs and potential candidate genes giving rise to the yellow color trait of the YFCs. This study lays the foundation for further research on the genome-phenotype cross-talks that define important poultry traits and for formulating genetic breeding and conservation strategies for the YFCs.
Comparison transcriptome analysis revealed resistance differences of Cavendish bananas to Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense race1 and race4
Authors: Dong Honghong , Ye Yiting , Guo Yongyi , Li Huaping
Published: March 2020

Background: Banana Fusarium wilt is a devastating disease of bananas caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) and is a serious threat to the global banana industry. Knowledge of the pathogenic molecular mechanism and interaction between the host and Foc is limited. Results: In this study, we confirmed the changes of gene expression and pathways in the Cavendish banana variety ‘Brazilian’ during early infection with Foc1 and Foc4 by comparative transcriptomics analysis. 1862 and 226 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in ‘Brazilian’ roots at 48 h after inoculation with Foc1 and Foc4, respectively. After Foc1 infection, lignin and flavonoid synthesis pathways were enriched. Glucosinolates, alkaloid-like compounds and terpenoids were accumulated. Numerous hormonal- and receptor-like kinase (RLK) related genes were differential expressed. However, after Foc4 infection, the changes in these pathways and gene expression were almost unaffected or weakly affected. Furthermore, the DEGs involved in biological stress-related pathways also significantly differed after infection with two Foc races. The DEGs participated in phenylpropanoid metabolism and cell wall modification were also differentially expressed. By measuring the expression patterns of genes associated with disease defense, we found that five genes that can cause hypersensitive cell death were up-regulated after Foc1 infection. Therefore, the immune responses of the plant may occur at this stage of infection. Conclusion: Results of this study contribute to the elucidation of the interaction between banana plants and Foc and to the development of measures to prevent banana Fusarium wilt.
Augmented Reality Guided Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus Correction
Authors: Viehöfer Arnd , Wirth Stephan Hermann , Zimmermann Stefan Michael , Jaberg Laurenz , Dennler Cyrill , Fürnstahl Philipp , Farshad Mazda
Published: March 2020

Background An optimal osteotomy angle avoids shortening of the first metatarsal bone after hallux valgus surgery and therefore reduces the risk of transfer-metatarsalgia. The purpose of the present ex-vivo study was to investigate whether augmented reality (AR) would improve accuracy of the distal osteotomy during hallux valgus surgery. Methods Distal osteotomies of the first metatarsals were performed on a foot model by two surgeons with different levels of surgical experience each with (AR, n=15x2) or without (controls, n=15x2) overlay of a hologram depicting an angle of osteotomy perpendicular to the second metatarsal. Subsequently, the deviation of the osteotomy angle in the transverse plane was analyzed. Results Overall, the AR decreased the range of impression and the AR guided osteotomies were more accurate (4.9 ± 4.2°) compared to the freehand cuts (6.7± 6.1°) by tendency (p=0.2). However, while the inexperienced surgeon performed more accurate osteotomies with AR with a mean angle of 6.4± 3.5° compared to freehand 10.5 ± 5.5° (p=0.02), no significant difference was noticed for the experienced surgeon with an osteotomy angle of around 3° in both cases. Conclusion This pilot-study suggests that AR guided osteotomies can potentially improve accuracy during hallux valgus correction, particularly for less experienced surgeons.
The Correlation between Follow-up MRI Findings and Laboratory Results in Pyogenic Spondylodiscitis
Authors: Ahn Kyung-Sik , Kang Chang Ho , Hong Suk-Joo , Kim Baek Hyun , Shim Euddeum
Published: March 2020

Background Although MRI is the gold-standard imaging method in the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis, role of follow-up imaging is debated and there can be discrepancies with regard to the significance of bony or soft tissue responses to treatment. Purpose of our study is to test whether the MRI changes on follow-up imaging correlate with laboratory findings of treatment response. Methods A total of 48 patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis who underwent baseline and follow-up MRI were retrospectively reviewed. The extent of bone marrow edema, paravertebral soft tissue inflammation, and disc height were compared on baseline and follow-up MRIs with the C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels obtained from the medical records at baseline and on follow-up. Relationships between the MRI and laboratory changes were analyzed using the Spearmann correlation test. Results The mean MRI follow-up period was 42.25 days. Based on the CRP (resolved: n=19, resolving: n=19, and aggravated: n=10), there was significant correlation between the laboratory results and the changes in the bone and soft tissues (p < 0.01, both). The correlation was best with soft tissue changes (rho: 0.48) followed by bony changes (rho: 0.41). Based on the ESR (resolved: n=8, resolving: n=22, and worsened: n=18), the correlation was stronger with bone changes (rho: 0.45, p < 0.01) than it was with soft tissue changes (rho: 0.39, p = 0.01). Conclusion Follow-up MRI findings of pyogenic spondylodiscitis show variable tissue responses. CRP was best correlated with soft tissue changes, while ESR showed the best association with bony changes.
Influences of high-heeled shoe parameters on gait cycle, center of pressure trajectory, and plantar pressure in young females during treadmill walking
Authors: Shang Jiangyinzi , Geng Xiang , Wang Chen , Chen Li , Zhang Chao , Huang Jiazhang , Wang Xu , Yan Alan , ma xin
Published: March 2020

Background Between 39% and 69% of women wear high-heeled shoes. Previous studies have shown that high heels can induce adverse biomechanical effects, but variables, such as walking speed, structure, style, and material of the shoes, have not been strictly controlled. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influences of high-heeled shoe parameters on gait cycle, center of pressure trajectory, and plantar pressure in young females. Methods Twenty healthy adult females were recruited to participate in this study. Subjects walked on a treadmill at a fixed speed (1 m/s). Overall, six pairs of high-heeled shoes were evaluated, which consisted of two heel types (thin and thick) and three different heel heights (low (3 cm), medium (6 cm), and high (8.2 cm)). Subjects also wore one pair of flat shoes (with 0.6 cm heel height) as the control group, while they walked on the treadmill at the same speed. Results and their significance were evaluated using a Heel Height × Heel Type Two way repeated ANOVA Test. Results The main parameters measured were the gait cycle, center of pressure parameters, peak pressure (PP), maximum force, contact area (CA), and the force time integral (impulse). The comparison of these parameters, conducted when the volunteers wore thick heel and flat shoes at different walking conditions, indicated that thin heels caused significant increases in the preswing parameter, CA, and PP exerted on the first toe and first metatarsus. Increased heel heights yielded smaller gait line lengths, single support lines, and smaller hindfoot areas. By contrast, increased anterior–posterior positions and plantar pressure parameter values were noted in the case of the forefoot. Conclusions Data analyses showed significant differences in plantar pressure distribution associated with the heel height and heel type at increased pressure in the central forefoot region and decreased pressure in the midfoot and heel sections, which consisted of the increased anterior shift. The implication of this study is to provide scientific advice to women for their choices of high heel shoes.
The geno-spatio analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in hot and cold spots of Guangxi, China
Authors: Lin Dingwen , Cui Zhezhe , Virasakdi Virasakdi , Palittapongarnpim Prasit , Chaiprasert Angkana , Ruangchai Wuthiwat , Ou Jing , Huang Liwen
Published: March 2020

Background At present, there are few studies on polymorphism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) gene and how it affects the TB epidemic. Objective This study aimed to document the differences of polymorphisms between tuberculosis hot and cold spot areas of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Methods The cold and hot spot areas, each with 3 counties, had been pre-identified by TB incidence for 5 years from the surveillance database. Whole genome sequencing analysis was performed on all sputum Mtb isolates from the detected cases during January and June 2018. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of each isolate compared to the H37Rv strain were called and used for lineage and sub-lineage identification. Pairwise SNP differences between every pair of isolates were computed. Analyses of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) across counties of the same hot or cold spot area and between the two areas were performed. Results As a whole, 59.8% (57.7% sub-lineage 2.2 and 2.1% sub-lineage 2.1) and 39.8% (17.8% sub-lineage 4.4, 6.5% sub-lineage 4.2 and 15.5% sub-lineage 4.5) of the Mtb strains were Lineage 2 and Lineage 4 respectively. The percentages of sub-lineage 2.2 (Beijing family strains) are significantly higher in hot spots. Through the MDS dimension reduction, the genomic population structure in the three hot spot counties is significantly different from those three cold spot counties (T-test p = 0.05). The median of SNPs distances among Mtb isolates in cold spots was greater than that in hot spots (897 vs 746, Rank-sum test p < 0.001). Three genomic clusters, each with genomic distance ≤ 12 SNPs, were identified with 2, 3 and 4 consanguineous strains. Two clusters were from hot spots and one was from cold spots.Conclusion Narrower genotype diversity in the hot area may indicate higher transmissibility of the Mtb strains in the area compared to those in the cold spot area.
Effect of RPR titer of pregnant syphilis on adverse outcome and treatment in 2013-2018, Nanjing, China: a retrospective study
Authors: Wang Genju , Ji Ying , Han Guorong , Jiang Hongxiu , Tang Juan , Ding Yi
Published: March 2020

Background: We aimed to find the relationship among syphilis Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) titer of syphilis infected pregnant women, RPR positive rate of the newborn, the adverse pregnancy outcomes and therapies.Method: A total of 600 syphilis infected pregnant women and their infants were participated in our study. Syphilis RPR Test and Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) test screening were performed on mothers and these infants. Mothers were divided into six groups depending on different treatments.Results: The higher the RPR titer of the pregnant mother was, the higher the RPR titer of their newborns after birth. The number of newborns in double negatives (RPR negative and TPPA negative), TPPA positive (RPR negative), RPR < 8 and RPR ≥ 8 groups (P < 0.01) has significantly difference. The infants with TPPA positive and RPR < 1:8 have more possibility to turn double negative than those RPR ≥ 8 infants after 12 months. Among all the adverse events, the number of premature births was significantly higher than others (P < 0.01). The proportion of adverse events achieved highest in RPR ≥ 1:8 group (11.24%), compared with the TPPA positive group (8.41%) and RPR < 1:8 group (2.56%). Therapy efficacy of mothers was better in RPR ≥ 1:8 group than RPR < 8 and TPPA positive groups (P < 0.01).Conclusions: RPR titers of 1:8 could be used as a point of therapeutic induction, which need to be emphasized.
Impact of donor lung pathogenic bacteria detected by next-generation sequencing on early post-transplant outcomes in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Liu Dong , Zhang Ji , Wu Bo , Liu Feng , Ye Shugao , Wang Hongmei , Lv Jian , Weng Xing , Chen Yan , Han Weili , Chen Jingyu
Published: March 2020

Background: The effect of donor lung pathogenic bacteria on the prognosis of lung transplantation is not clear. We used the technique of next-generation sequencing (NGS) to detect the pathogenic bacteria from the lower respiratory tract and analyzed whether the colonized bacteria of donor lung affect the outcomes of lung transplantation.Methods: All patients who underwent lung transplantation from March 2018 to June 2018 at the Wuxi People's Hospital affiliated to Nanjing Medical University were included in this study. Twelve cases of donor lung were obtained, and 17 lung transplants were performed, including 12 single lung transplantation and 5 bilateral lung transplantation. The colonized bacteria in the lower lobe tissue of donor lung were detected by NGS, and the bacteria culture method was used to detect the bacteria in the airway secretion before and after the operation. The information of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support time, mechanical ventilation time, intensive care unit (ICU) stay time,duration of fever and hospital length of staywere collected for prognostic analysis.Results: Compared with bacterial culture methods, the positive rate of bacteriaby using NGS in the lungs were higher (52.9% vs 41.2%). Among the patients who had detected bacteria by NGS in donor lungs before surgery, only one patient (1/9) developed the same bacteria after lung transplantation.Either NGS or bacterial culture methods, there is no association between the colonized colonization bacteria in donor lungs and the patient outcomes of immediate posttransplant period.Conclusion: The detection of bacteria by using NGS is more sensitive than normal bacterial culture. The colonized bacteria in different parts of the lung are inconsistent. There is no association between the colonized bacteria in donor lungs and short-term outcome of lung transplantation patients.
Mental health, smoking, harm reduction and quit attempts – a population survey in England
Authors: Brose Leonie , Brown Jamie , Robson Debbie , McNeill Ann
Published: March 2020

Background Tobacco control strategies have led to an overall decline in smoking; however, a large gap remains between people with and without mental health problems, leading to substantial health inequalities. We aimed to assess mental health status of cigarette smokers and recent ex-smokers in England, and smoking and harm reduction behaviour and quit attempts by mental health status.Methods Data were collected from 5,637 current and 434 recent ex-smokers in 2016/17 in household surveys of representative samples of adults. We calculated weighted prevalence of different indicators of mental health problem: a) ever diagnosis, b) none, moderate or serious past-month distress, c) past-year treatment. We compared weighted smoking status, cigarette type, dependence, motivation to stop smoking, cutting down, use of nicotine replacement therapy or e-cigarettes, short-term abstinence, and quit attempts according to mental health status.Results Among smokers and recent ex-smokers, 35.9% ever had a diagnosis, 24.3% had experienced moderate, an additional 9.7% serious, past-month distress; 21.9% had had past-year treatment. Those with an indication of a mental health problem were more highly dependent and more likely to smoke roll-your-own cigarettes but also more likely to be motivated to stop smoking, to cut down, use nicotine replacement therapy or e-cigarettes and to have attempted to quit in the past year.Conclusions About a third of cigarette smokers in England have mental health problems. They are more dependent on cigarettes but also more likely to engage in harm reduction behaviours, more motivated to stop and more likely to attempt to stop smoking.
Trends and determinants of HIV transmission among men who inject drugs in the Pokhara Valley, Nepal
Authors: Hogan Sam , Page Andrew , Ogbo Felix , Dixit Sameer , Rajbhandari Rajesh Man , Rawal Bir , Deuba Keshab
Published: March 2020

Background HIV is a major public health issue around the world, especially in developing countries. Although the overall prevalence of HIV in Nepal is relatively low and the country itself is considered low risk, there are specific sub-populations where the prevalence is far higher than the national average. One of these sub-groups is male injection drug users (IDUs). In order to understand the reasons for the differences in prevalence, a series of socio-demographic, behavioural and knowledge-based risk factors need to be assessed.Methods The study used a series of 7 cross-sectional survey datasets, collected between 2003 and 2017 (N=2,235) to investigate trends in HIV prevalence among male IDUs by key socio-demographic and behavioural and knowledge-based risk factors. A series of logistic regression models were conducted to investigate the association between study factors and HIV in the Pokhara valley, Nepal.Results A lower risk of HIV was associated with younger age (≤24 years compared to >24 years, OR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.10, 0.31), not being married (OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.33, 0.80) and shorter duration of drug use (≤4 years compared to >4 years, OR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.09, 0.29). A higher risk of HIV was associated with low (compared to secondary or higher) education level (OR = 2.76, 95% CI = 1.75, 4.36), a lack of addiction treatment (OR = 2.59, 95% CI = 1.64, 4.08), and recent use of unsterilized injection equipment (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.20, 4.11).Conclusion Although knowledge of HIV is high among male IDUs, the prevalence of individuals who possess comprehensive knowledge and the number of individuals who have received treatment for drug addiction has decreased. This may indicate that addiction treatment and HIV education programs need to be strengthened.
Hypertension care cascade in Chile: a serial cross-sectional study from national health surveys 2003-2010-2017.
Authors: Passi-Solar Alvaro , Margozzini Paula , Mindell Jennifer S , Ruiz Milagros A , Valencia Carlos , Scholes Shaun
Published: March 2020

Background: Data on trends in hypertension prevalence and indicators of attainment at each step of the care cascade are required in Chile. Aim : To quantify trends (2003-2017) in prevalence and in the proportion of individuals with hypertension attaining each step of the care cascade (awareness, treatment and control) among adults aged ≥17 years, and to assess the impact of lowering the blood pressure (BP) threshold on these indicators. Methods: We used data from three Chilean national health surveys (ENS 2003; 2010; 2017). Mean systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) levels, hypertension prevalence (BP≥140/90 mmHg or use of antihypertensive treatment), and levels of awareness, treatment and control were assessed in each year. Logistic regression on pooled data was used to assess trends in hypertension prevalence and in its care cascade; linear regression was used to assess trends in SBP and DBP. We compared levels of hypertension prevalence using two sources to ascertain use of antihypertensive treatment (ATC codes from a detailed medicine inventory and self-reported use). The 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines were used to re-define hypertension using lower thresholds (BP≥130/80 mmHg or use of treatment). Results : Hypertension prevalence was 34.0%, 32.0% and 30.8% in 2003, 2010 and 2017, respectively. Mean SBP and DBP decreased over the 15-year period, except for SBP among females on treatment. Adopting the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines would increase hypertension prevalence by 17% and 55% in absolute and relative terms, respectively. Levels of treated- and controlled-hypertension were significantly higher in 2017 than in 2003 (65% vs 41% for treatment; 34% vs 14% for control), while levels of awareness were stable (66% vs 59%). Gender disparities were evident, with higher awareness, treatment and control levels among females in 2003, 2010 and 2017. Conclusions: The introduction of universal access to care for hypertension in Chile in 2005 accounted partly for the rise in levels of treated- and controlled-hypertension since 2003. Lowering the BP threshold would substantially increase the financial public health challenge of further improving levels of attainment at each step of the care cascade. Innovative and collaborative strategies are needed to improve the management of hypertension, especially among males.
Triglyceride-glucose index predicts adverse cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes and acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Wang Le , Cong Hongliang , Zhang Jing-xia , Hu Yue-cheng , Wei Ao , Zhang Ying-yi , Yang Hua , Ren Li-bin , Qi Wei , Li Wen-yu , Zhang Rui , Xu Jing-han
Published: March 2020

Background: Triglyceride-glucose index (TyG index) has been regarded as a reliable alternative marker of insulin resistance and an independent predictor of cardiovascular outcomes. Whether TyG index predicts adverse cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains uncertain. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic value of TyG index in patients with diabetes and ACS.Methods: A total of 2531 consecutive patients with diabetes who underwent coronary angiography for ACS were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into 3 tertiles according to TyG index. The primary outcomes included the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and non-fatal stroke. The TyG index was calculated as ln (fasting triglyceride level (mg/dL) ×fasting glucose level (mg/dL)/2). Results: The incidence of MACE increased with TyG index tertiles after 3-year follow-up. Kaplan-Meier curves showed significant differences in event-free survival rates among TyG index tertiles (P=0.005). Multivariate Cox hazards regression analysis revealed that TyG index was an independent predictor of MACE (95% CI 1.201-1.746; P<0.001). The optimal TyG index cut-off for predicting MACE was 9.323 (sensitivity 46.0% ; specificity 63.6%; area under the curve 0.560; P=0.001 ).Furthermore, adding TyG index to the prognostic model for MACE improved the C-statistic value (P=0.010), the integrated discrimination improvement value(P=0.001) and the net reclassification improvement value(P=0.019).Conclusions TyG index predicts future recurrent cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes and ACS, independently of known cardiovascular risk factors，suggesting that TyG index may be a useful marker for risk stratification and prognosis in patients with diabetes and ACS.
INNO-406 inhibit the growth of chronic myeloid leukemia and promote its apoptosis via targeting PTEN
Authors: Sun Jiandong , Wang Yilin , Sun Lirong
Published: March 2020

Background Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm. INNO-406 is a novel tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that possess specific Lyn kinase inhibitory activity with no or limited activity against other sarcoma (Src) family member kinases. The present study aimed to confirm the anti-tumor effect of INNO-406 on CML cells, and elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying its effect. Methods The cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by MTT, western blot and flow cytometry respectively. Results As suggested by the findings, INNO-406 significantly inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis of CML cells. In addition, INNO-406 promoted the expression level of PETN. Rescue experiment revealed that PTEN knockdown reversed the effect of INNO-406 which indicated the correlation between INNO-406 and PTEN. Further study determined that PTEN inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT and 4EBP1 and subsequently altered the expression of apoptotic protein expressions including bax, cytochrome c (cyto-c), cleaved caspase3 and bcl-2. In vivo study further confirmed that INNO-406 inhibited the growth of CML cells in vivo by targeting PTEN. Conclusion Based on the above findings, this work extended our understanding of INNO-406 in the chemotherapy of CML and its molecular mechanism.
Socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, multi-morbid conditions and depressive symptoms among Nepalese older adults
Authors: Yadav Uday , Thapa Tarka Bahadur , Mistry Sabuj Kanti , Pokhrel Roshan , Harris Mark Fort
Published: March 2020

Background Depressive symptoms (DS) are a well-recognized public health problem across the world. There is limited evidence with regard to DS and its associates, such as socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors and chronic conditions in low-income countries like Nepal. In this study, we aimed to assess the level of DS and its relationship with socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors and chronic disease conditions among community dwelling older people in Nepal. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of 794 older adults aged 60 or above residing in the rural setting of the Sunsari and Morang districts of eastern Nepal between January and April 2018. Multi-stage cluster sampling was adopted to select the study participants. Data included socio-demographics, lifestyle factors, self-reported chronic disease conditions and the Geriatric depression scale. Determinants of DS were estimated through the generalized estimating equation (GEE) approach by considering exchangeable correlation structure among clusters. Results In our study samples, nearly 55.8% of the older adults were found to be suffering from DS. We found a significant association between DS and being female (aOR: 1.25, 95% CI: 0.89-2.09), Buddhism (aOR: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.58-2.42), Dalits (aOR: 2.60, 95% CI: 1.19-5.65), unemployed, low family income (aOR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.07-2.92), smokers (aOR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.01-2.20) and having chronic multi-morbid conditions (aOR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.09-2.55). Conclusions The prevalence of DS was high among community-dwelling older adults in eastern Nepal. Our findings suggest the need for mental health prevention and management programs targeting the older population in rural Nepal.
The clinical significance of serum free DNA concentration detection in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Chen Ling-yun , Qi Jing , Xu Hong-lei , Lin Xiang-yun , Sun Ya-jun , Ju Shao-qing
Published: March 2020

Background: Cell-free DNA(cf-DNA) has been described as an effectived biomarker in autoimmune disease, which mainly due to the release of apoptotic cells. In this study, we hypothesized and explored the relationship between cf-DNA and the influencing factors of the appearance and development of schizophrenia, so as to provide the basis for further research, prevention and treatment. Methods: We analysed and compared the concentration of cf-DNA in 174 schizophrenia patients and matched 100 healthy controls using quantitative real-time PCR by amplifying the Alu repeats. Results: We found that cf-DNA levels in peripheral blood reliably distinguished schizophrenia from a normal control group. In addition, we found by tracking the median absolute concentration of serum cf-DNA in primary cases, we found a distinct increase at prior treatment and it then decreased progressively at post treatment. Conclusions: Our study quantified cf-DNA in SZ patients serum by using conventional RT-qPCR. The detection of cf-DNA concentration was valuable for monitoring disease duration of SZ patients and laid a foundation for the study of the molecular mechanism of SZ disease. Keywords: schizophrenia, circulating cell-free DNA, Alu
The role of circulating microRNAs for the diagnosis of hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma with low alpha-fetoprotein level: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Cheng , Li Zhuonan , Xie Zishan , Wang Zhanpeng , Ye Yanshuo , Li Bo , Li Wei
Published: March 2020

Background: Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) has been widely used for many years as a serum marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, AFP has been recognized as having poor sensitivity. More and more studies have concluded that circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) might be a promising biomarker that could complement AFP. However, the diagnostic ability of circulating miRNAs has varied among the studies. Therefore, we performed the present meta-analysis to appraise the diagnostic performance of circulating miRNAs as a biomarker for hepatitis B virus-associated HCC (HBV-HCC) patients with low AFP levels.Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the published literature to assess the diagnostic accuracy of circulating miRNAs in differentiating HBV-HCC patients with low AFP levels from non-HCC controls.Results: Circulating miRNAs showed promising potential in the diagnosis of HBV-HCC patients with low AFP levels. In the low-AFP HBV-HCC patients, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84–0.90). The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.84 (95% CI: 0.78–0.88) and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.69–0.83), respectively.Conclusions: The detection of circulating miRNAs provides a valuable method for the diagnosis of HBV-HCC in patients with low AFP levels.
Exosomes deep sequencing identifies miR-363-5p as a non-invasive biomarker of axillary lymph node metastasis and prognosis in breast cancer
Authors: Wang Xin , Qian Tianyi , Bao Siqi , Zhao Hengqiang , Chen Hongyan , Xing Zeyu , Li Yalun , Zhang Menglu , Meng Xiangzhi , Wang Changchang , Wang Jie , Gao Hongxia , Liu Jiaqi , Zhou Meng , Wang Xiang
Published: March 2020

Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor in females. Axillary lymph node (ALN) metastasis is an independent risk factor of prognosis and correlates with distant metastasis. However, the false-negative rate and complications of the standard procedure are not neglectable hitherto. It is necessary to develop an accurate non-invasive approach for lymph node staging.Methods: In this study, circulating exosomal miRNA profiles in peripheral blood from 10 patients with breast cancer and 10 age-matched healthy women were obtained and analyzed using small RNA deep sequencing. Integrative profiles analysis and multiple cross-validation using in-house and external independent datasets were performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance. Functional assays were used to analyze cellular phenotypes and downstream targets of miR-363-5p.Results: We found that the aberrant expression of exosomal miR-363-5p is significantly associated with tumorigenesis (p=0.047) and ALN metastasis (p=0.019). Serum exosomal miR-363-5p demonstrated the consistent down-regulated expression pattern in LN positive patients compared with LN negative patients across multiple independent datasets, which achieved high diagnostic performance in predicting lymph node metastasis (AUC=0.621-0.958). Furthermore, patients with a high expression level of miR-363-5p had significantly improved overall survival (HR=0.63, ±95% CI=0.45-0.89, p=0.0075). Functional experiments discovered that miR-363-5p acts by inhibiting the migration ability of breast cancer cells. Here we further identified Platelet Derived Growth Factor Subunit B (PDGFB) as a downstream target of miR-363-5p.Conclusions: The miR-363-5p deficiency promoted metastasis via facilitating PDGFB expression, leading to overactivity of PDGF signaling in cancer cells. These results demonstrated that tumor metastasis is mediated by tumor-derived exosomes that affect cell growth signal regulation. Therefore, exosomal miR-363-5p may serve as a marker for ALN metastasis diagnosis in a non-invasive manner.