bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of informing diagnosis on quality of life in patients with cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wan Miao , Luo Xianggui , MVOGO Louis.B NDZANA , Wang Juan , Chang Chen , Li Zhenfen , Zhang Jianglin
Published: March 2020

Objective To assess the impact of informing diagnosis and disease status on the quality of life in patients with cancer Method We searched the follow databases, Pubmed, CENTRAL(Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), PsycINFO, WEB OF SCIENCE, Embase, CBM (Chinese Biomedical Literature database), WANFANG database (Chinese Medicine Premier), and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure). And the terms used are as follows: neoplasm, cancer, tumour, tumor, carcinoma, disclosure, truth telling, breaking bad news, knowledge, knowing, awareness, quality of life, QOL. Pairs of reviewers independently screened documents and extracted the data. Meta-analysis was conducted by Revman 5.0 software. Results There were 11740 records retrieved from databases and 23 studies were included finally. Meta-analysis of informed and uniformed cancer patients revealed no differences in both the general quality of life and symptoms of fatigue, pain, dyspnea, insomnia, appetite loss and diarrhea (P>0.05). Additionally, no difference in physical function, role function, cognitive activity and emotional function between the above 2 groups(P>0.05) were found. On the vitality area, the patients who were totally informed about their diagnosis had higher vitality than the uniformed patients. However, patients aware about their illnesses seemed to get lower scores in social function. Between the partly informed of the diagnosis and uninformed cancer patients, there were no differences in general quality of life, function domains and disease-related symptoms (P>0.05). Conclusion Informing the cancer patients their diagnosis may not have a bad effect on their quality of life. PROSPERO registration number CRD42017060073.
Secondary signs on preoperative CT as predictive factors for febrile urinary tract infection after ureteroscopic lithotripsy
Authors: Kim Jin Woo , Lee You Jin , Ha Yun-Sok , Lee Jun Nyung , Kim Hyun Tae , Chun So Young , Kim Bum Soo
Published: March 2020

Background: Febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common complications after ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URS). We evaluated the effect of secondary signs on preoperative computed tomography (CT) for febrile UTI after URS. Materials and methods: In total, 182 patients who underwent URS for ureteral stones from January 2013 to December 2015 were included in this study. These patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of postoperative febrile UTI after URS. We retrospectively compared the clinical factors, stone factors, and secondary signs between the groups. Predictive factors for febrile UTI after URS were analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model. Results: Febrile UTI occurred in 26 of the 182 patients. In univariate analysis, presence of comorbid chronic kidney disease (CKD) and stone size were significantly different between UTI and non-UTI groups. Among secondary signs, presence of hydroureter, perinephric fat stranding, periureteral fat stranding, and tissue rim sign were significantly different between the groups. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, comorbid CKD, stone size, perinephric fat stranding, and tissue rim sign were independent predictive factors for febrile UTI after URS. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that secondary signs including perinephric fat stranding and tissue rim sign on preoperative CT, CKD, and stone size are independent predictive factors for febrile UTI after URS.
SDF-1 secreted by mesenchymal stem cells promotes the migration of endothelial progenitor cells via PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Jiang Huijiao , Guo Lijiao , Wang Sibo , Cheng Wenzhe , Wan Longfei , Zhang Zhongzhou , Xing Lihang , Zhou Qing , Yang Xiongfeng , Han Huanhuan , Chen Xueling , Wu Xiangwei
Published: March 2020

Background: Cell-based therapeutics bring great hope in areas of unmet medical needs. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been suggested to facilitate neovascularization mainly by paracrine action, and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can differentiate into mature endothelial cells. Studies have demonstrated that a combination cell therapy that includes MSCs and EPCs has a favorable effect on ischemic limbs. However, the mechanism of combination cell therapy remains unclear. Herein, we investigate whether stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1 secreted by MSCs contributes to. Furthermore, we examined whether SDF-1 affects EPC migration via Phosphoinositide 3-Kinases (PI3K)/protein kinase B (termed as Akt) signaling pathway.Methods: First, intramuscular MSC injections were supplemented with intravenous EPC injections in the mouse model of hind limb ischemia. The incorporation of Qdot® 525 labeled-EPC into the vasculature and capillary density was evaluated by CD31 immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, respectively. Then, the concentration of SDF-1 secreted by MSCs was detected via quantitative immunoassay. Flow cytometry was performed to quantify CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) 4-positive EPCs. The effect of MSCs on EPC migration was measured by a transwell system and a tube-like structure formation on Matrigel. The SDF-1 antagonist AMD3100 and the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin were separately used to determine the participation of CXCR4 and PI3K into EPC migration. Finally, western blot assay was performed to detect the effect of SDF-1 secreted by MSCs on Akt phosphorylation in EPCs.Results: The combination delivery of MSCs and EPCs via a “dual-administration” approach enhanced the incorporation of EPCs into the vasculature and increased the capillary density in mouse ischemic hind limb. The SDF-1 concentration secreted by MSCs was 2.61 ng/ml after 48 h. CXCR4-positive EPCs increased after incubation with MSC-conditioned medium (CM). MSCs contributed to EPC migration and tube-like structure formation, both of which were suppressed by AMD3100 and wortmannin. Phospho-Akt induced by MSC-CM was attenuated when EPCs were pretreated with AMD3100 and wortmannin.Conclusions: The paracrine action of MSCs contributes to EPC migration. Furthermore, SDF-1 secreted by MSCs induces EPC migration. The mechanism of this migration is related to the activation of the Akt pathway
Adipose Stem Cells from Type 2 Diabetic Mice Exhibit Therapeutic Potential in Wound Healing
Authors: Sun Yongfa , Song Lili , Zhang Yong , Wang Hongjun , Dong Xiao
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND: Diabetic patients suffer from impaired wound healing. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy represents a promising approach toward improving skin wound healing through release of soluble growth factors and cytokines that stimulate new vessel formation and modulate inflammation. Whether adipose-derived MSCs (ASCs) from type 2 diabetes donors are suitable for skin damage repair remains largely unknown. METHODS: In this study, we compared the phenotype and functionality of ASCs harvested from high fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T2D or control mice, and assessed their abilities to promote wound healing in an excisional wound splinting mouse model with T2D. RESULTS: T2D ASCs expressed similar cellular markers as control ASCs, but secreted less hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). T2D ASCs were somewhat less effective in promoting healing of the wound, as manifested by slightly reduced re-epithelialization, cutaneous appendage regeneration, and collagen III deposition in wound tissues. In vitro, T2D ASCs promoted proliferation and migration of skin fibroblasts to a comparable extent as control ASCs via suppression of inflammation and macrophage infiltration. CONCLUSIONS: From these findings, we conclude that, although ASCs from T2D mice are marginally inferior to control ASCs, they possess comparable therapeutic effects in wound healing.
Overexpression of IκBα in cardiomyocytes alleviates hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis and autophagy through inhibiting NF-κB translocation
Authors: Han Min , Chen Xiao-Cui , Sun Ming-Hui , Gai Min-Tao , Yang Yi-Ning , Gao Xiao-Ming , Ma Xiang , Ma Yi-Tong , Chen Bang-Dang
Published: March 2020

Background: Inflammation and oxidative stress play a predominant role in the initiation and progression of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, of which nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is considered to be a crucial mediator. Inactivation of NF-κB could benefit cardiomyocytes through inhibiting apoptosis. IκBα, an inhibitor of NF-κB, is hypothesized to protects cardiomyocytes from H2O2-induced apoptosis and autophagy through inhibiting the NF-κB pathway.Methods: We designed an AAV9-delivered mutated IκBαS32A, S36A and investigated its effect on neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (NRVMs) in response to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). NRVMs were divided into Normal (blank), Control (H2O2), GFP +H2O2, IκBα+H2O2, and Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC)+H2O2 groups. NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation was evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blot. Cell viability was assessed by a cell counting kit-8 kit. Supernatant lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and intracellular malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured to identify H2O2-stimulated cytotoxicity. Apoptosis was determined by Annexin V-PE/7-AAD, and the mitochondrial membrane potential (△Ψm) was detected by JC-1. Western bolt was used to detect apoptosis and autophagy related proteins.Results: Consequently, H2O2-treated NRVMs showed reductions in cell viability but increased IκBα degradation and NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation in a time-dependent manner. Furthermore, LDH and MDA content, LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ ratio, Bax and Beclin-1 expressions, and apoptotic cells were upregulated in NRVMs exposed to H2O2, whereas △Ψm and Bcl-2 expression were downregulated. Additionally, IκBα transduction or PDTC pretreatment both attenuated the nuclear translocation of the p65 subunit and reversed the H2O2-stimulated effects in NRVMs.Conclusion: These findings suggest that IκBα could ameliorate H2O2-induced apoptosis and autophagy through targeted inhibition of NF-κB activation, which may guide strategies to prevent cardiac I/R jury.
Temporal and Spatial Trends of Ischemic Heart Disease Burden in Chinese and Subgroup Populations from 1990 to 2016
Authors: Wang Chenran , Wang Chunping , Liu Mi , Chen Zhe , Liu Shiwei
Published: March 2020

Background Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a leading cause of premature death which poses public health challenges worldwide. Previous studies have focused on the overall population in China. However variations in temporal and spatial pattern across subgroups remain unknown. This study was to analyze how the IHD burden among Chinese and subgroup populations changes in response to temporal and spatial trends from 1990-2016.Methods Based on data from the updated estimates in the 2016 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, we used years lived with disability (YLDs), years of life lost (YLLs), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to describe the IHD burden. The percentage and annual average percentage changes were applied to illustrate temporal and spatial variations of the IHD burden stratified by age-sex and province from 1990-2016, 1990-2005, and 2005-2016.Results YLD rates, YLL rates, and DALY rates for IHD underwent a notable increase among all age groups and increased by 119.4%, 83.3%, and 84.5% nationally from 1990-2016. In YLD rates, an evident rise was seen in females (124.4%) compared to males (114.0%) while males experienced a more substantial increase than that in females in YLL rates (99.3% vs. 60.5%) and DALY rates (99.7% vs. 63.2%) from 1990 to 2016. Compared with 1990-2005, annual average changes in overall population in YLL (3.5% vs. 1.8%) and DALY rates (3.5% vs. 1.9%) showed a tardier increase whereas higher annual average growth of YLD rates (3.5% vs. 4.0%) was observed from 2005-2016. Geographically, all provinces saw declines in YLLs/YLDs ratios from 2005-2016 with seventeen provinces showing an upward trend between 1990 and 2005. Most of the provinces in China witnessed a remarkable upsurge in the age-standardized DALY rate from 1990-2016 whereas the economically advantaged region Macao (52.2%) saw the most marked reduction.Conclusions China has made significant achievements in preventing premature death from IHD along with the increased risk of disability. Substantial disparities in the temporal and spatial trends of IHD burden emphasize concerns for elderly men and those in economically disadvantaged regions with resource constraints. By having identified these disparities, targeted IHD prevention and control will help to bridge these gaps in IHD burden.
Defective migration and dysmorphology of neutrophil granulocytes in atypical chronic myeloid leukemia treated with ruxolitinib
Authors: Bornemann Lea , Schuster Marc , Schmitz Saskia , Sobczak Charlyn , Bessen Clara , Merz Simon F. , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Haverkamp Thomas , Gunzer Matthias , Göthert Joachim R.
Published: March 2020

Background The identification of pathologically altered neutrophil granulocyte migration patterns bears strong potential for surveillance and prognostic scoring of diseases. We recently identified a strong correlation between impaired neutrophil motility and the disease stage of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Here, we apply this assay to study quantitively increased neutrophils of a patient suffering from a rare leukemia subtype, atypical chronic myeloid leukemia (aCML). Methods A 69-year-old male was analyzed in this study. Besides routine analyses, we purified the patient’s neutrophils from peripheral whole blood and studied their migration behavior using time-lapse video microscopy in a standardized assay. These live cell migration analyses also allowed for the quantification of cell morphology. Furthermore, the cells were stained for the markers CD15, CD16, fMLPR, CXCR1 and CXCR2. Results Despite cytoreductive therapy with hydroxyurea, the patient’s WBC and ANC were poorly controlled and severe dysgranulopoiesis with hypogranularity was observed. Neutrophils display strongly impaired migration when compared to healthy controls and migrating cells exhibited a more flattened-out morphology than control neutrophils. Because of a detected CSF3R (p.T618I) mutation and constitutional symptoms treatment with ruxolitinib was initiated. Within one week of ruxolitinib treatment, the cell shape normalized and remained indistinguishable from healthy control neutrophils. However, neutrophil migration did not improve over the course of ruxolitinib therapy but was strikingly altered shortly before a sinusitis with fever and bleeding from a gastric ulcer. Molecular work-up revealed that under ruxolitinib treatment, the CSF3R clone was depleted, yet the expansion of a NRAS mutated subclone was promoted. Conclusion These results demonstrate the usefulness of neutrophil migration analyses to uncover corresponding alterations of neutrophil migration in rare myeloid neoplasms. Furthermore, in addition to monitoring migration the determination of morphological features of live neutrophils might represent a useful tool to monitor the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches.
Identification of Protein Changes in The Urine of Hypothyroid Patients Treated with Thyroxine Using Proteomics Approach
Authors: Masood Afshan , Benabdelkamel Hicham , Jammah Anwar A , Ekhzaimy Aishah A , Alfadda Assim A
Published: March 2020

Background The thyroid gland and thyroid hormones control a multitude of homeostatic functions including the functions kidney related to fluid and electrolyte balance and formation of urine. In the present study we aimed to define changes in the urinary proteome characterizing alterations in thyroid hormone status.Methods An untargeted proteomic approach with network analysis was used to study 9 age-matched subjects with newly diagnosed overt hypothyroidism. Urine was collected from subjects pre and post L-thyroxine treatment. Proteome analysis was performed using two-dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry.Results 42 proteins were found to have significant differential abundance (≥1.5-fold change, ANOVA, p ≤ 0.05). 28 proteins were upregulated and 14 proteins were downregulated in the hypothyroid compared to the euthyroid state. The differentially abundant proteins investigated by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed involvement of signaling pathways related to MAPK Kinase, VEGF, Pi3 Kinase/Akt, Pkc, and nvolvement of pathway related to amino acid metabolism, molecular transport, small molecule biochemistry.Conclusions The differentially abundant proteins identified revealed their involvement in regulating TH and Tg metabolism. The alterations in levels of identified proteins in indicate a compensatory increase in the regulation of Tg to increase circulating TH levels in the hypothyroid state.
Da Vinci robot-assisted resection to treat abdominal ectopic thyroid: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhao Zhanwei , Huang Yun , Zhang Xiliang , Zhao Huibin , Zhang Chaojun
Published: March 2020

Background : Although ectopic thyroid can be found in thoracic locations, the discovery of abdominal ectopic thyroid is often an accidental event. Moreover, abdominal ectopic thyroid is easily misdiagnosed due to the rarity of these cases and the difficulties in the preoperative diagnosis process. Thus, we aimed to assess the prevalence and features of abdominal ectopic thyroid and to highlight the current knowledge about the clinical characteristics and management of this condition by analyzing a case report of abdominal ectopic thyroid and reviewing the literature. Case presentation : A 70-year-old woman with a 3-year history of gradually increasing abdominal distension in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen was admitted to the hospital. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen revealed a retroperitoneal mass. The patient underwent Da Vinci robotic surgery, and the retroperitoneal mass was completely resected. Subsequently, the pathologic diagnosis of the mass was ET. The patient had no discomfort or symptoms when she was discharged from the hospital and at the postoperative 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 month follow-up. The summary of literature review suggested that abdominal ectopic thyroid is still rare although there are some reports. Nonetheless, the cause of abdominal ectopic thyroid is unclear, and abdominal ectopic thyroid has the following characteristics: more common in women than in men, asymptomatic in the majority of the cases, difficult to diagnose, and found by excluding metastasis. Most ectopic thyroid is treated with surgery, and minimally invasive techniques have been increasingly performed. Conclusion : This is the first report on Da Vinci robotic resection for large rare retroperitoneal ET, and this case highlights that ET should be considered when patients present with similar imaging findings in the abdomen.
Pancreatic cystadenoma coexistent with incidental neuroendocrine tumor: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wu Jingjin , Zhang Li , Yu Zhiyong
Published: March 2020

Background Pancreatic cystadenoma coexistent with neuroendocrine tumor is a rare disease which is reported sporadically. Case Presentation We herein present one such interesting case in a 67-year old man. There was only one mass detected preoperatively by different examinations. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy indicated a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Therefore, a distal pancreatectomy was performed and the final histopathology revealed two separate masses in the pancreas, one was serious cystadenoma and the other neuroendocrine tumor. Conclusions SCA coexistent with PNET is rarely found during clinical practice. The component of PNET may not be confirmed until the operation. Based on the recorded cases, the malignant potential, clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis are remaining further researches.
The benefits evaluation of abdominal deep inspiration breath hold based on knowledge-based radiotherapy treatment planning for left-sided breast cancer
Authors: Xu Jiaqi , Wang Jiazhou , Zhao Feng , Hu Weigang , Bu Luyi , Yao Guorong , Lu Zhongjie , Yan Senxiang
Published: March 2020

Purpose Study the impact of abdominal deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) technique on knowledge-based radiotherapy treatment planning for left-sided breast cancer to guide the application of DIBH radiotherapy technology. Methods and Materials Two kernel density estimation (KDE) models were developed based on 40 left-sided breast cancer patients with two CT acquisitions of free breathing (FB-CT) and DIBH (DIBH-CT). Each KDE model was used to predict DVHs based on DIBH-CT and FB-CT for another 10 new patients similar to our training datasets. The predicted DVHs were taken as a substitute to dose constraints and objective functions in the Eclipse treatment planning system, with the same requirements for the planning target volume (PTV). The mean doses to the heart, the left anterior descending coronary artery (LADCA) and the ipsilateral lung were evaluated and compared using the T-test among clinical plans, KDE predictions, and KDE plans.Results Our study demonstrated that the KDE model can generate deliverable simulations equivalent to clinically applicable plans. The T-test was applied to test the consistency hypothesis on another 10 left-sided breast cancer patients. In cases of the same breathing status, there was no statistically significant difference between the predicted and the clinical plans for all clinically relevant dose volume histogram (DVH) indices (p>0.05), and all predicted DVHs can be transferred into deliverable plans. For DIBH-CT images, significant differences were observed in Dmean between FB model predictions and the clinical plans (p<0.05). DIBH model prediction cannot be optimized to a deliverable plan based on FB-CT, with a counsel of perfection. Conclusion This study demonstrated that the KDE prediction results were well fitted for the same breathing condition but degrade with different breathing conditions. The benefits of DIBH can be evaluated quickly and effectively by the specific knowledge-based treatment planning for left-sided breast cancer radiotherapy. This study will help to further realize the goal of automatic treatment planning.
Blocking of programmed death ligand 1 enhances natural killer cell-mediated immunity against malignant melanoma cells
Authors: Lee Young-shin , Heo Woong , Choi Ho-Jung , Cho Hae-Ryung , Nam Ji Ho , Ki Yong Gan , Kang Chi Dug , Bae Jaeho
Published: March 2020

Background Since ionizing radiation has showed the dramatic effect to kill the cancer cells by direct DNA damage as well as triggering anti-cancer immune responses through release of various tumor antigens and induction of NK activating molecules, it has been used for long time to treat many cancer patients including patients with melanoma. However, it has been known that radiotherapy might promote the remnant cancer cells to escape immune system. One of the suggested ways is induction of a ligand for programmed death-1 (PD-L1) after radiotherapy in head and neck cancer, bladder cancer and lung cancer cells which engages the receptor, programmed death-1 (PD-1) in immune cells. PD-1/PD-L1 axis transduces the inhibitory signal and suppresses the adaptive immunity in T cells. However, their role in innate immunity remains poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated whether ionizing radiation could change the expression of PD-L1/2 in malignant melanoma cells and the receptor, PD-1, in NK-92 cells. Results Surface PD-L1/2 levels on melanoma cells were increased by ionizing radiation in a dose-dependent manner but the level of PD-L1 was not changed significantly in NK-92 cells. Radiation-induced PD-L1/2 suppressed the activity of the NK-92 cells against melanoma cells despite of upregulation of NKG2D ligands. Furthermore, activated NK cells had high level of PD-1 and could not kill PD-L1/2+ melanoma cells effectively. When we used PD-L1 inhibitor or silenced PD-L1 gene to inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 axis, they reversed the activity of the suppressed NK cells. Conclusions Through these results, we supposed that PD-1/PD-L1 blockade could enhance the immune responses of NK cells against melanoma cells after radiotherapy and might overcome the PD-L1 mediated radioresistance of cancer cells.
Altered Gut Microbiota Associated with Hemorrhage in Chronic Radiation Proctitis
Authors: Liu Liangzhe , Chen Bingcheng , Chen Chaoyun , Ding Chen , Xiao Nana , Liang Jinjun
Published: March 2020

Background: Pelvic cancer radiotherapy may cause chronic radiation proctitis (CRP) that adversely affects patient’s quality of life. Here, we aimed to characterize the gut microbiota of CRP patients and reveal the association of dysbiosis and hematochezia. A comparative metagenomic study of CRP with and without hematochezia was conducted by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: Different patterns of dysbiosis were observed in CRP patients with and without hematochezia. The abundance of Bacteroides was higher in CRP patients without hematochezia. The Verrucomicrobia phylum was enriched while the compositions of the Enterobacteriales family and the Porphyromonadaceae genus were relatively lower in the microbiota of CRP patients with hematochezia. PICRUSt analysis suggested that the expression of Fe-S protein, Glutathione peroxidase and Glutaredoxin-related protein were increased, indicating an exacerbated inflammation state in hematochezia patients. Conclusions: This study provides new insight to the altered composition and function of gut microbiota in patients with hematochezia, implying the link of CRP symptom and bacterial ecosystem on rectal epithelial layer.
SIR model for novel coronavirus-infected transmission process and its application
Authors: Tang Tao , Cao Lei , Lan Chunyu , Cao Li
Published: March 2020

Background: To establish a novel coronavirus-infection transmission process model in Wuhan, and to provide a decision support for epidemic prediction and prevention. Methods: SIR model for novel coronavirus-infection transmission process was built based on the data of the infected persons, discharged patients and discharged patients during the period of isolation and control in Wuhan. Least squares estimation method was used to estimate the key parameters of the model. Results: The changing trend of the predicted value of SIR model was basically consistent with the actual value, and fitting effect was well. Based on the prediction results of model, future development trend of the epidemic showed that the inflection point of the epidemic was the 38th day, namely at the end of February, the peak number of infected persons was about 22000 (excluding clinical diagnosis cases); Different infection intensity and removal intensity had an impact on the development of the epidemic. Conclusion: The SIR model for novel coronavirus-infection transmission process in Wuhan has high veracity. Through the prediction and application of the model, it can provide guidance and advice for the actual epidemic prevention and control, and take effective measures to control the epidemic situation in time.
COVID-19 Propagation Prediction and Assessment Method with Imported Cases and Infection Generations: Shanxi Province as a Case
Authors: Zhang Juan , Sun Gui-Quan , Li Mingtao , Zhang Wenyi , Chang Lili , Jia Zhongwei , Magalhães Ricardo J Soares , Zhang Juping , Ren Huarong , Pei Xin , Cao Xiaochun , Zhang Fenfen , Zhang Zi-Ke , Liu Guirong , Yao Meiping , Jin Zhen
Published: March 2020

When everyone focuses on 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Hubei province, the epidemic in other province cannot be ignored, which also has an impact on the epidemic in the whole country. The most distinctive epidemic characteristic in all regions except Wuhan is that the most of confirmed cases are imported cases from Wuhan, and the propagation chain is relatively clear. Based on detailed contact tracing information of confirmed cases, combined with first-order outbreak response measures, we establish a disease transmission dynamical model to describe the infection propagation chain among the human population. Using Shanxi province as a case, modeling results indicate that the epidemic peak in Shanxi province occurred in February 2. In addition, our model suggests that according to the current development trend, COVID-19 will disappear in February with the final epidemic number of approximately 175 cases. It is verified that the most effective outbreak control measures in Shanxi include home isolation of people, surveillance and isolation of second-generation cases, contact tracing and management of contacts. With the end of the holiday, if the average number of contacts per person per day is less than 6 , it has little impact on the incidence of COVID-19, and even if third- and fourth-generation cases occur, the epidemic will be under control, no later than late March with a finial outbreak size of 220 cases. However, if the average number of contacts per person per day is greater than 6, the number of COVID-19 cases will continue to be reported resulting in another epidemic peak. Through the forecast and evaluation of COVID-19 in Shanxi, it is verified that the model with infection generations is more accurate to describe the spread mode and can be extended to regions with imported cases.
The correlation between IL-33 and inflammation factors in rheumatoid arthritis patients in vivo and in fibroblast-like synoviocytes in vitro
Authors: Wu Jing , Li Qiang , Deng Jia-Xin , Zhao Jin-Jun , Yu Qing-Hong
Published: March 2020

Background: Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is a member of the IL-1 family of cytokines whose role remains controversial in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), because no clear conclusion has been established regarding the relationship between IL-33 and other cytokines and chemokines. The present study was conducted to evaluate the correlation of IL-33 with other cytokines and chemokines in serum and the synovia, and to explore the nature of the relationship.Results: IL-33 was found to exhibit an inverted-U-shaped correlation with multiple cytokines and chemokines in synovial fluid, including IL-6, IL-1β, CXCL8 (IL-8), CXCL9 (MIG) and CXCL10 (IP-10), but not in serum. Moreover, in vitro experiments confirmed that IL-33 also exhibits U-type dose-dependent regulation of FLS function.Conclusions: IL-33 exhibit an inverted-U-shaped correlation with multiple cytokines and chemokines in synovial fluid of RA patients. IL-33 affects the secretion of cytokines and chemokines in the synovium in a U-type dose-dependent relationship.
A retrospective study of acral melanoma that happened on foot
Authors: Weitao Yao , Qiqing Cai , Jiaqiang Wang , Peng Zhang , Xin Wang , Xinhui Du , author) Niu Xiaohui (co-corresponding
Published: March 2020

Methods: The aim was to investigate the epidemiological, clinical, and prognostic features of acral melanoma (AM) that occurred on foot, and to provide associated data for further study. A retrospective study was performed on patients with malignant melanoma (MM) who were treated in our hospital from January 2015 to January 2019. The tumor site was screened by foot. Basic data (e.g., gender, age, occupation, tumor location and etiology) of eligible patients, tumor-related data (such as tumor thickness, lymph node metastasis, and systemic metastasis), surgical related data (e.g., surgical site, operation time, bleeding volume, postoperative drainage time and volume), and prognostic data (including local recurrence or metastasis) were extracted. Survival analysis was used to study event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) and factors influencing survival of patients.
Results: A total of 109 patients with AM happened on foot, including 52 males and 57 females, male/female = 0.91, were involved. The patients’ age was 58.31±12.13 years old. The occupations included 69 (63.3%) of farmers, 20 (18.3%) of freelance work, 4, 10 and 6 (18.4% in total) of others, including workers, students, and retirees. Tumor locations were 19 (17.4%) of the thumbs, 9 (8.3%) of other toes, 54 (49.5%) of the inner and outer soles, 20 (18.3%) of the heels, and 7 (6.4%) of the back foot. The causes were 57 cases (52.3%) of malignant nevus, 7 cases (6.4%) of trauma stimulation, and 45 cases (41.3%) without inducement. Additionally, 29 cases (26.6%) were newly diagnosed and treated in our hospital, and 80 cases (73.4%) were previously treated in external hospitals. Symptoms of nudes or ulceration lasted for 1 to 15 months, with an average of 5.92 months. The main surgical methods are tumor (enlarged) resection, lymph nodes resection, and combined resection of tumor and lymph nodes. During the treatment, 45 patients needed additional surgery. At the last follow-up, 8 cases had tumor recurrence, 43 cases had lymph node metastasis, 29 patients (stage IV) had metastasis in vital viscera, and 12 patients died. The EFS was 16 months, and OS was 31 months on average. Univariate analysis suggested that there was a correlation between occupations and EFS, locations and OS.
Conclusions: Middle-aged and elderly manual workers were found as the main population of AM that happened on foot. The tumor appeared at the weight-bearing area of the soles and heels. The proportion of metastasis was high, while the prognosis was poor. Preventive resection of precancerous lesions and early diagnosis and treatment of tumors are the primary tasks to improve the efficacy and survival of patients
Micropropagation and Effect of Phloroglucinol on Rooting of Diospyros crassiflora Hiern
Authors: Tchouga Alvine Ornella , Deblauwe Vincent , Djabou Stephanie Astride Mouafi , Forgione Giovanni , Hanna Rachid , Niemenak Nicolas
Published: March 2020

The jet-black to streaked ebony wood produced by the African ebony (Diospyros crassiflora Hiern, Ebenaceae) is exploited in Central and West Africa. A conservation effort is currently underway in Cameroon to propagate the tree through seedlings and cuttings. However, the intermittent availability of its seeds and the long time required for rooting formation of cuttings are limiting its propagation. This study aims to develop a successful protocol for ebony micropropagation. In vitro culture of nodal segments from seedlings was performed in half-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with either zeatin (0.0, 2.3, 4.6, 9.1, 13.7, 18.2, 22.8, and 27.4 µm) or 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) (0.0, 2.2, 4.4, 8.8, 13.3, 17.8, 22.2, and 26.6 µm). After 12 weeks, all media allowed shoot budbreak. Shoots displaying the greatest budbreak were observed with 22.8 µm zeatin and 22.2 µm BAP. The shoots were then transferred to a medium supplemented with indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and phloroglucinol (PG) at different concentrations for root induction. Root induction was observed on the shoots initially induced in the medium with BAP, but not in those grown in the medium with zeatin. In half-strength MS supplemented with 396.5 µm PG plus 14.2 µm IBA, the formation of a single tap root was observed on 79% of shoots, with an average root length of 2.8 ± 0.18 cm. Rooted plants were successfully acclimatized to the greenhouse, with a 50% survival rate. This is the first report on Diospyros crassiflora micropropagation, which paves the way for rapid ebony multiplication to respond to needed conservation efforts.
Effects of Soil Microbiomes and Enzymatic Activities on Glechoma longituba
Authors: Liu Li , Jin Lin , Guo Qiaosheng
Published: March 2020

Soil microbes and enzymes play important roles in plant growth and metabolism. However, for Glechoma longituba (Nakai) Kupr., an important crop with edible and medicinal uses in China, their effects are not well elucidated. To explore their impacts on plant morphology and bioactive compounds, the plant samples and rhizosphere soil of five different G. longituba populations were collected and investigated in this study. After high-throughput sequencing combined with data analyses, high microbial diversity and richness in the rhizosphere soil of each G. longituba population were observed, and the variations on bacterial and fungal community compositions among these soil samples were also proved. The activities of urease, neutral phosphatase, sucrase, protease, and polyphenol oxidase were significantly different among the rhizosphere soils from different G. longituba populations. Among the major microbial communities and soil enzymes we studied, the genera of Tomentella, Sebacina, Fusarium, Nitrospira, and the activity of soil sucrase were remarkably correlative with both the morphological indices and the contents of bioactive compounds of G. longituba by redundancy analysis. These findings would help guide the scientific plantation of G. longituba to promote its medicinal quality.
Production Techniques for Strawberry Plugs in West-central Florida
Authors: Torres-Quezada Emmanuel A. , Zotarelli Lincoln , Whitaker Vance M. , Darnell Rebecca L. , Morgan Kelly , Santos Bielinski M.
Published: March 2020

Florida-produced strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) plug transplants (SP) are a potential alternative to bare-root transplants (BR). The adoption of this technology could represent a reduction in water usage for plant establishment and potentially higher early yield, as SP may establish more quickly than BR. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of time in nursery and tray sizes, on early and total strawberry yield for Florida-produced SP for ‘Florida Radiance’, ‘Strawberry Festival’, and Sweet Sensation® ‘Florida127’. Runners from Florida-produced mother plants were collected in mid and late August from 2012 to 2015. SP were grown for either 4 or 6 weeks according to the treatment and established in 30-, 40-, 50-, and 72-cell trays, and compared with BR (control). Additionally, strawberry tips from California were evaluated for SP production. BR consistently had higher early yield than SP, ranging from 36% to 91%, between 2012 and 2016. SP produced the same or higher total yield than BR. Florida-produced SP should be grown for 4 weeks before field transplanting in 50-cell trays based on the results of this study. Furthermore, there was no difference between California and Florida tips for total yield. In all seasons, all SP were established with 20% of the total irrigation water used for the BR. Thus, SP could potentially result in water savings of almost 820,800 gal/acre per season, but the early yield of SP would need to be improved to match BR performance.
Acute discogenic lumbosacral radiculopathy
Authors: Parfenov V. A.
Published: March 2020

Discogenic lumbosacral radiculopathy (DLSR) accounts for up to 5% of all cases of pain in the lumbosacral region, representing one of the most common causes of disability in the population. The issues of pathogenesis, risk factors, course, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of DLSR are discussed. It is noted that in the pathogenesis of DLSR, in addition to compression-ischemic lesions of the spinal root, an important role is played by local inflammatory and autoimmune reactions, which underlie the natural decrease in disc herniation over time. The diagnosis of DLSR is established on the basis of signs of damage to the lumbar and first sacral roots and the absence of signs that are alarming regarding the specific causes of back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbosacral region allows you to exclude specific causes, identify a herniated disc, but its implementation does not improve the prognosis of the disease if there are no signs of a specific disease. Of great importance is informing the patient with acute DLSR about the favorable course of the disease, the possibility of natural (without surgical intervention) regression of the herniated disc and the associated inflammatory changes. Non-drug (therapeutic gymnastics, manual therapy) and drugs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiepileptic drugs, epidural administration of corticosteroids) in acute DLSR are analyzed. Own experience of management of patients with acute DLSR using meloxicam as an NSAID is presented. It is noted that in the prevention of low back pain, the avoidance of excessive physical and static stress, regular exercises in therapeutic gymnastics, swimming, walking are of leading importance.
Back pain: from diagnosis to treatment
Authors: Solokha O. A. , Аkhmedzhanova L. T. , Kuzminova T. I. , Lavrenenko D. S.
Published: March 2020

In today ‘s world, back pain is a heavy burden and leads to a decrease in the working capacity, quality of life of people. The choice of tactics of treatment of pain in a back is defined by the pain reason: nonspecific pain, the specific pain caused by serious diseases or a compression of a root. The most frequent cause of back pain is nonspecific pain due to myofascial, muscular-tonic syndrome, facet syndrome, and sacral-iliac joint dysfunction in lower back pain. The article presents clinical symptoms of these syndrome, as well as techniques of neuroorthopedic examination, which allow to detect one or more abrasions of back pain. To prevent acute non-specific pain, it is recommended to prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and muscle relaxants. Along with pharmacological treatments, treatment of patients with back pain should be more comprehensive and include cognitive-behavioral therapy and kinesiotherapy. Determination of the source of back pain in neuroorthopedic examination makes it possible to carry out local therapy in stages using blockages with local anesthetics and glucocorticoids. In case of insufficient effectiveness of blockades, it is possible to carry out radiofrequency denervation of facet joints or sacral-iliac). Clinical and neuroorthopedic examination of a patient with back pain with identification of sources of pain, analysis of the causes that led to its development, adequate treatment and recommendations to prevent repeated exacerbations can significantly reduce the risk of chronization of back pain and improve the quality of life of patients.
Analysis of immediate and long-term outcomes of perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage according to the hospital register data
Authors: Kulesh A. A. , Drobakha V. E. , Nurieva Ju. A. , Shestakov V. V.
Published: March 2020

Introduction. Perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage (PMSAH) accounts for approximately half of all cases of non-aneurysmal hemorrhage, has a typical pattern on computed tomography (CT) of the brain, and favorable clinical course. Moreover, in the domestic literature there are no studies devoted to this problem.

The purpose of the study: to study the frequency of occurrence, clinical and CT features of PMSAH in comparison with nonaneurismatic non-PMSAH according to the hospital register of the regional stroke center.

Materials and methods. The data of 383 patients who underwent treatment with a diagnosis of spontaneous SAH in the regional stroke center of Perm Clinical Hospital №4 in 2014–2019 were analyzed. All patients underwent a standard examination, including CT of the brain and digital selective angiography (DSA). According to the pattern of SAH on CT, patients are divided into the groups PM-1 (isolated preptine), PM-2 (traditional) and PM-3 (diffuse). Evaluation of the long-term outcome was carried out using a telephone interview, as well as according to the regional electronic medical system.

Results. Of 383 patients with SAH, aneurysms were identified in 350 patients (91,3%). Non-aneurysmal SAH was found in 20 patients (5,2%), in 8 patients (2,1%) − PMSAH. The age of patients averaged 48 years, women predominated. Intense headache in the onset of the disease was observed in the vast majority of patients. Nausea was significantly more often observed in patients with PMSAР (50%) compared with patients with non-PMSAР (8,3%). Loss of consciousness occurred in every fourth patient with PMSAР and only 8% of patients with non-PMSAH. The neurological status of the patients also did not differ and was characterized by a normal consciousness, meningeal syndrome (in 63% of patients with PMSAH) in the absence of focal symptoms. The level of neurological deficit according to NIHSS averaged 0 points, the severity of SAH on the Hunt-Hess scale averaged 2 points. At the time of completion of treatment, most patients did not have a neurological and functional deficit. According to CT, in 4 patients (50%), PM-2 was visualized, in 3 patients (38%) − PM-3, and in one patient − PM-1 (12%). On average, after 15 months, none of the treated patients developed repeated SAH, patients did not have functional limitations.

Conclusions. This study for the first time made it possible to characterize the approximate frequency of occurrence, clinical and CT picture, as well as the long-term prognosis of PMSAH in a cohort of patients from a large regional stroke center in Russia.
The role of targeted synthetic drugs in the treatment of rheumatic diseases: focus on tofacitinib
Authors: Karateev D. E. , Luchikhina E. L.
Published: March 2020

The treatment of immuno-inflammatory rheumatic diseases has advanced significantly in recent decades due to development of biological medications, which, however, are not without some weak points. They include immunogenicity, parenteral administration, and potentially insufficient stability of the composition of the drug. Great hopes are related to a relatively new class of targeted synthetic immunomodulatory drugs, currently represented in rheumatology by JAK kinase inhibitors (tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib) and phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor (apremilast). The most actively developed group is JAK inhibitors that influence one of the most important signal pathway of immune system. This family includes 4 subtypes: JAK1, JAK2, JAK3 и tyrosine-kinase2 (TYK2). JAK-kinases selectively aggregate with cytoplasmic domains of different cytokine receptors, activation of which includes intracellular signal pathway JAK-STAT (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription). STAT proteins are responsible for transduction of the signals from more than 50 cytokines, hormones and growth factors that regulate key processes of survival, proliferation and differentiation of immune cells. The greatest practical experience achieved on tofacitinib. This medication approved inRussiafor several indications: rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, ulcerative colitis. Clinical trials of III phase of ORAL series in rheumatoid arthritis and OPAL series in psoriatic arthritis showed high efficacy of Tofacitinib in different clinical situations. In Russian strategic trial REMARKA after treatment with Tofacitinib very fast improvement of the signs of activity was observed, 68,8% patients achieved low disease activity or remission at 6th month of follow-up. Russian open multi-center observational study of Tofacitinib in 101 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and insufficient efficacy of basic and biologic drugs showed achievement of low disease activity or remission in 60% patients, as well as significant improvement of quality of life with a very low frequency of withdrawals due to adverse events (less than 2%).
Etoricoxib in the treatment of osteoarthritis
Authors: Anikin S. G. , Alekseeva L. I.
Published: March 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

The main symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain, stiffness, joint swelling. According to epidemiological studies, about one-third of the chronic moderate and severe pain is associated with OA. Currently, OA is considered as a multifactorial disease resulting from the interaction of various genetic, biological, mechanical, and metabolic factors. Inflammation plays a central role in development and progression of ОА. In patients with OA, histological studies of the synovial membrane detected signs of chronic inflammation. The level of some proinflammatory cytokines may increased and the level of anti-inflammatory cytokines may decreased in blood serum, synovial fluid and joint tissue. Also, adaptive immune cell responses are detected in the joint tissues in patients of OA. Due to its high effectiveness, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in OA. Oral or local forms of NSAIDs are the drugs of choice in the initial stages of therapy in all guidelines. Etoricoxib is a selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and is used for the treatment of OA and other rheumatic diseases. The article discusses the use of etoricoxib in patients with OA.