bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KLF4 alleviates cerebral vascular injury by ameliorating vascular endothelial inflammation and regulating tight junction protein expression following ischemic stroke
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Wang Lu , Han Zhenxiang , Dong Jing , Pang Defang , Fu Yuan , Li Longxuan
Published: February 2020

Background
Although inflammatory cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) and anti-inflammation factor- kruppel-like transcription factor (KLF) 4 have all been reported to be induced after cerebral ischemic stroke (CIS), the close temporal and spatial relationship between expressions of CAMs and KLF4 following CIS, and whether and how CAMs and KLF-4 contribute to development of CIS-induced vascular injury are still unclear.

Methods
Here, we first examined the correlation between serum levels of CAMs/KLF4 and infarct volume in acute CIS patients. Then, we determined relationship between CAMs and KLF4 in mice after focal cerebral ischemia. Finally, we investigated the mechanism of KLF4 in protecting against oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced brain endothelial cell injury.

Results
Our results demonstrated that patients with moderate to severe CIS had higher serum levels of three CAMs including E-selectin, inter-cellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) but lower levels of KLF4 at 48 hours after acute event as compared to patients with minor CIS. The expression levels of three CAMs as well as KLF4 all correlated well with the infarct volume in all the CIS subjects at that time. Although the expressions of three CAMs and KLF4 were all induced in the ischemic hemisphere following focal cerebral ischemia, but the peak timing and distribution patterns of their expression were different: the induction of KLF4 lagged behind that of the CAMs in the ischemic penumbra, furthermore, the dual immunofluorescent studies displayed that high expression of KLF4 was always associated with relatively less cerebral vascular endothelial inflammation response in the ischemic hemisphere, and vice versa. Mechanistic analyses revealed that KLF4 alleviated CIS-induced cerebral vascular injury by regulating endothelial expressions of CAMs, nuclear factor-kB and tight junction proteins.

Conclusions
These data indicate that KLF4 confers vascular protection against cerebral ischemic injury, suggesting that circulating CAMs and KLF4 might be used as potential biomarkers for predicting the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke, and also providing a new proof of concept and potential targets for future prevention and treatment of CIS.
Reversed paired-gRNA plasmid cloning strategy for efficient genome editing in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ding Tingting , Huang Chaoyong , Liang Zeyu , Ma Xiaoyan , Wang Ning , Huo Yi-Xin
Published: February 2020

Background: Co-expression of two distinct guide RNAs (gRNAs) has been used to facilitate the application of CRISPR/Cas9 system in fields such as large genomic deletion. The paired gRNAs are often placed adjacently in the same direction and expressed individually by two identical promoters, constituting direct repeats (DRs) which are susceptible to self-homologous recombination. As a result, the paired-gRNA plasmids cannot remain stable, which greatly prevents scalable application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Results: To address this limitation, different DRs-involved paired-gRNA plasmids were designed and the events of recombination were characterized. Deletion between DRs occurred with high frequencies during plasmid construction and subsequent plasmid propagation. This recombination event was RecA-independent, which agreed with the replication slippage model. To increase plasmid stability, a reversed paired-gRNA plasmids (RPGPs) cloning strategy was developed by converting DRs to the more stable invert repeats (IRs), which completely eliminated DRs-induced recombination. Using RPGPs, rapid deletion of chromosome fragments up to 100 kb with an efficiency of 83.33% was achieved in Escherichia coli.Conclusions: The RPGPs cloning strategy serves as a general solution to avoid plasmid RecA-independent recombination. It can be adapted to applications that rely on paired gRNAs or repeated genetic parts.
The expression and Clinical Significance of miRNA-135a and Bach1 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhang Yuchen , Jiang Zhiyang , Tao Guoqing , Zhu fei yan
Published: February 2020

AIM
To explore the correlation between the expression of miRNA-135a and Bach1 in colorectal cancer tissue and the patient's clinical information.
Methods
60 patients with colorectal carcinoma were treated as a control group. Real-time quantitative PCR assays and immunohistochemistry method were performed to detect the expression of miRNA-135a and Bach1 in 60 colorectal carcinoma and adjacent normal tissues, and the clinical and pathological classifications had also been investigated. The SPSS 19.00 software was used. All data represent mean±SD of three independent experiments. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results
miRNA-135a expression levels increased significantly in the colon cancer tissues compared with the non-tumor control tissues(P<0.01). miRNA-135a expression levels were higher in stage III/IV than in stage I/II colon cancer patients. The expression level of Bach1 in colorectal cancer was significantly lower(P<0.01). Bach1 and miRNA-135a were negatively correlated.
Conclusions: The levels of miRNA-135a and Bach1 were opposite , the over-expression of miRNA-135a might decrease Bach1, which may be involved in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer.
Assessment of the results and the haematologic side effects of the 3D conformal and the IMRT/ARC therapies delivered during the craniospinal irradiation of childhood tumors, in a follow-up period of 5 years
Authors: Lőcsei Zoltán , Farkas Róbert , Farkas Kornélia Borbásné , Sebestyén Klára , Sebestyén Zsolt , Musch Zoltán , Vojcek Ágnes , Benedek Noémi , Mangel László , Ottóffy Gábor
Published: February 2020

Objectives The craniospinal irradiation (CSI) of childhood tumors with Rapidarc technique is a new way of treatment. Our objective was to compare the acute haematologic toxicity pattern during 3D conformal radiotherapy with the application of the novel techniques. Materials and methods Data from patients treated between 2007 and 2014 has been collected and seven patients were identified in each of both treatment groups. The acute blood toxicity results were obtained, after establishing a general linear model, by using the SPSS software. Furthermore, the dose exposure of the organs-at-risk has been compared. Patients have been followed-up for a minimum of five years, then progression-free survival and overall survival data were assessed. Results After the assessment of the laboratory parameters of the two groups, it may be concluded that no significant differences were detected in terms of the mean dose exposures of the normal tissues or the acute hematological side-effects during the IMRT/ARC and the 3D conformal treatment. Laboratory parameters significantly decreased compared to the baseline values during the treatment weeks. Nevertheless, no significant differences were detected between the two groups. No remarkable differences were confirmed between the two groups regarding the five-year progression-free survival and overall survival, and no signs of serious irradiation organ toxicity were observed during the follow-up period in either of the groups. Conclusion Rapidarc technique can be used safely even for the treatment of childhood tumors, as the extent of normal tissue dose exposures and that of acute hematological side effects is not higher.
Molecular characterization of Leishmania tropica and Leishmania major from stray dogs and patients in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alanazi Abdullah D , Alouffi Abdulazi S Alouffi S , Alyousif Mohamed S Alyousif S , Rahi Abdulsadah A , Ali Magada A , Brayner Fabio A , Mendoza-Roldan Jairo Alfonso , Otranto Domenico
Published: February 2020

Background: Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica cause cutaneous leishmaniasis in humans and dogs in several parts of the world, with a large number of cases recorded in the Middle East. However, when occurring in sympatry in the same area, the role of each species in the epidemiology of cutaneous leishmaniasis is not clear.Methods: To determine the prevalence and to identify the species of Leishmania that infect humans and stray dogs in Riyadh and Al-Qaseem (Saudi Arabia), blood samples were collected from stray dogs (n = 311) and human patients (n = 27). A conventional PCR coupled with a nested PCR (n PCR) were applied in this study.Results: A conventional PCR coupled with a nested PCR (n PCR) showed that seven patients (25.9%) from Riyadh city and Al-Qaseem province were infected by L. major and L. tropica and five dogs (1.6%) by L. tropica.Conclusions: This is one of the first molecular studies of leishmaniasis from Saudi Arabia. The relationship between the sand fly vectors and the reservoirs of both Leishmania spp. is still scarcely known in this region, and further epidemiological investigations of domestic and wild canine infected with L. major and L. tropica are needed towards a control and prevention of the infection in canine and human populations.
Open versus endoscopic carpal tunnel release: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Li Yueying , Luo Wenqi , Wu Guangzhi , Cui Shusen , Gu Xiaossong , Zhang Zhan
Published: February 2020

Background Endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) and open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) both have advantages and disadvantages for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). We compared the effectiveness and safety of ECTR and OCTR based on evidence from a high-level randomized controlled trial. MethodsWe comprehensively searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Medline to identify relevant articles published until August 2019. Data regarding operative time, grip strength, Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire scores, digital sensation, patient satisfaction, key pinch strength, return to work time, and complications were extracted and compared. All mean differences (MD) and odds ratios (OR) were expressed as ECTR relative to OCTR. Results Twenty-eight studies were included in our meta-analysis. ECTR was associated with significantly higher satisfaction rates (MD, 3.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43 to 4.82; P = 0.0003), greater key pinch strengths (MD, 0.79 kg; 95% CI, 0.27 to 1.32; P = 0.003), earlier return to work times (MD, -7.25 days; 95% CI, -14.31 to -0.19; P = 0.04), higher transient nerve injury rates (OR, 4.87; 95% CI, 1.37 to 17.25; P = 0.01), and a lower incidence of scar-related complications (OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.07 to 0.59; P = 0.004). There were no significant differences between the two methods in terms of permanent nerve injury (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 0.58 to 6.40; P = 0.28). Conclusions Overall, evidence from randomized controlled trials indicates that ECTR results in better recovery of daily life functions than OCTR, as revealed by higher satisfaction rates, greater key pinch strengths, earlier return to work times, and fewer scar-related complications. Our findings suggest that patients with CTS can be effectively managed with ECTR.
The Effect of Posterior Capsule Repair in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sun Xiaobo , Zhu Xingyang , Zeng Yuqing , Zhang Haitao , Zeng Jianchun , Feng Wenjun , Li Jie , Zeng Yirong
Published: February 2020

Background: Prior studies have compared the posterior capsule repair group in primary total hip arthroplasty by posterior approach with the control group without posterior capsule repair, suggesting that the posterior capsule repair group had better clinical outcomes. However, it is still a controversy which treatment is more helpful for hip diseases.The purpose of our article is to obtain the postoperative outcomes between the 2 procedures. Methods: We performed a systematic search by browsing the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library. There is no restriction on the date of publication. Before we submit our manuscript, we have re-searched the literatures again, including the articles which directly compared the postoperative outcomes of the 2 procedures. Results: A total of 8 comparative studies were included in our meta-analysis. The posterior capsule repair group showed less dislocation rate, higher HHS, and even less postoperative Bleeding volume, however, there is no significant difference in ROM between the 2 groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, according to the current evidence, repairing posterior capsule during primary THA may have better functional outcomes, less dislocation incidence, and less loss of blood.
Diagnostic acuuracy of cerebrospinal fluid and serum-isolated exosomes for glioblastoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jafari Davod , Tiyuri Amir , Rezaei Elmnaz , Moradi Yousef , Jafari Rasool , Shoorijeh Farzaneh Jokar , Barati Mahmood
Published: February 2020

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant glioma cancer with a high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Unfortunately, a routine method is not available for screening or preoperative early detection of GBM. However, early detection in a none-invasive or minimally invasive method could be beneficial and increase the survival rate. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to examine the diagnostic accuracy of exosomal RNAs that were extracted from patients’ CSF or serum for GBM diagnosis. We searched Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed (including Medline), Embase and ProQuest (as databases for grey literature) up to December 2019; we also performed backward and forward reference checking of included and relevant studies. Finally, included studies were assessed with QUADAS-2 checklist and their data extracted. We carried out a meta-analysis of included study, regarding to the diagnostic meta-analysis guidelines for obtaining pooled accuracy estimates. In addition, sensitivity analysis and meta-regression were also conducted. We retrived 1730 records from databases, nine of them included in systematic review and qualitative synthesis. Six studies were considered to statistical analysis and performed diagnostic meta-analysis. Our results suggested that the pooled sensitivity and specificity of exosomal biomarkers for GBM were 0.76 and 0.80, respectively. In addition, the pooled positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were 3.7, 0.30 and 12, respectively. The overall area under the curve (AUC) of exosomal biomarkers for GBM diagnosis was found to be 0.85. According to our results, the value of 0.85 for AUC, suggesting that exosomal biomarkers might serve as a high potential and non-invasive diagnostic tool for GBM.
Decreased expression of ubiquitin-specific protease 10 correlates unfavorable prognosis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Kim Kyungeun , Huh Tom , Park Yoonho , Koo Dong-Hoe , Kim Hungdai , Hwang Ilseon , Choi Chel Hun , Yi Joo Mi , Chung Joon-Yong
Published: February 2020

Background: Ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs) play an important role in fundamental cellular processes. Among these, USP10 is known for its association with tumor development and progression of multiple cancers. Here, we found a potential link between USP10 and p14ARF in colorectal cancer.

Methods: USP10 and p14ARF protein expression was assessed via immunohistochemistry (IHC) on a tissue microarray from 280 colorectal cancer cases. IHC scores were evaluated by digital image analysis and compared with patients’ outcomes. In addition, we examined DNA hypermethylation in colorectal cancer cell lines and tissues, which were matched with adjacent normal colon samples.

Results: USP10 expression (USP10 loss ) was lost in 18.6% of samples (52/280 cases), which was linked to lymphovascular invasion ( p =0.019) and distant metastases ( p <0.001). Similarly, loss of p14ARF expression (p14ARF loss ) was associated with more advanced tumors. USP10 expression correlated positively with p14ARF expression ( r =0.617, p <0.001). USP10 loss , p14ARF loss , and loss of both USP10 and p14ARF (USP10 loss /p14ARF loss ) were significantly associated with shorter disease-free survival and overall survival in comparison to USP10 intact , p14ARF intact , and USP10 intact /p14ARF intact , respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that USP10 loss (Hazard ratio=2.07, p =0.046) and USP10 loss /p14ARF loss (Hazard ratio=1.41, p =0.010) are independent prognostic factors for disease-free survival in colorectal cancer patients. Furthermore, aberrant hypermethylation of the USP10 promoter region was found in colorectal cancer cell lines and tissues.

Conclusions: The present results suggest that USP10 loss is a potential prognostic marker for colorectal cancer.
MiR-142-3p could serve as a potential biomarker for individualized treatment of solitary and multiple leiomyomas
Authors: Xue Luqi , Yang E , Li Zhengyu , Gou Jinhai , Nie Dan , Jia Jia , Feng Juntao , Yi Tao
Published: February 2020

Background: The pathogenesis and clinical behaviors between solitary leiomyoma (SL) and multiple leiomyomas (ML) vary, which lead to the difference in management for childbearing-aged patients. Herein, we aim to find the potential miRNA biomarkers for optimizing the individualized management between SL and ML.Methods: A microarray analysis was conducted to screen out the potentially dysregulated miRNAs. Target genes and signaling pathway potentially involved in UL pathogenesis were predicted by bioinformatics. The effect of miRNA was examined by Cell Counting Kit-8 proliferation assay and qRT-PCR after transfection of miRNA mimicsResults: The top 5 differentially expressed miRNAs, Wnt signalling pathway and its two central molecules APC and CTNNB1 were screened out according to microarray analysis and bioinformatics. MiR-142-3p was selected for further exploration. In validation of qRT-PCR, MiR-142-3p was significantly upregulated in SL, while downregulated in ML, CTNNB1 and sequencing target AXIN-2 were expressed at higher level in ML than SL. Overexpression of MiR-142-3p resulted in lower transcription level of CTNNB1 and AXIN-2, and lower cell proliferation level.Conclusions: MiR-142-3p may be involved in the development of SL and ML by interacting with CTNNB1 and AXIN-2 through Wnt signaling pathway. MiR-142-3p could serve as a potential biomarker for individualized treatment between SL and ML in the future.
Arthroscopic ankle fusion only has a limited advantage over the open operation if osseous operation type is the same: a retrospective comparative study
Authors: Wang Chenggong , Xu Can , Li Mingqing , Li Hui , Wang Long , Zhong Da , Liu Hua
Published: February 2020

Background: A great deal of research suggests that arthroscopic ankle fusion (AAF) has advantages over open ankle fusion (OAF), but these outcomes would be imprecise because of a selection bias. The purpose of this study is to verify which is better for ankle fusion, AAF or OAF. We regrouped the OAF group into two subgroups according to whether the osseous operation type is the same as AAF group. The goal is to minimize the impact of disease severity, thereby reducing selection bias to some extent.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of ankle fusion in our hospital between July 2015 and October 2018. 43 patients were enrolled and divided into AAF group (n=17) and OAF group (n=26). In order to eliminate selection bias, we divided OAF group into complex osseous operation subgroup (COO subgroup) (n=15) and simple osseous operation subgroup (SOO subgroup) (n=11). The osseous operation type of SOO subgroup is the same as AAF group. Then, we compared the differences between these groups. All patients were followed up at least one year after operation. We analyzed data, including etiology composition, surgical time, intra-op blood loss, reduction of albumin, total hospital stays, union time, fusion situation, complications, radiological examination, functional score and questionnaire survey. Then we performed statistical analyses.Results: We found that the etiological components of AAF group and OAF group were different; the etiological components of AAF group and SOO subgroup were similar. We found that AAF group has advantages over OAF group and COO subgroup in general. However, except in terms of surgical trauma, hospital stays and short-term complications occurred, the AAF group has not obvious advantages over SOO subgroup, including intra-op blood loss, fusion condition, postoperative function score and postoperative patient satisfaction; and AAF group need more surgical time than the SOO subgroup.Conclusions: The arthroscopic ankle fusion can bring a good curative effect; however, if the osseous operation type is the same, the arthroscopic ankle fusion only has a limited advantage over the traditional open operation in perioperative soft tissue protection and enhanced recovery after surgery.
Differential expression and significance of Stat3 and IL-17 in gastritis and gastric intraepithelial neoplasia and gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Lijie , Cao Chong , Wang Xiao Jun , Tao Lin , Li Feng , Zhang Wen Jie
Published: February 2020

Background: The role of Stat3 and IL-17 in the development of gastric cancer was investigated by detecting Stat3 activation level and IL-17 expression in gastritis, GIN and gastric cancer.Methods: (1) We collected 70,137 patients who underwent gastroscopy at the First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University Medical School from November 2007 to December 2015, coded and screened all the diagnostic results. (2) We used immunohistochemical to detect differences in phosphorylated Stat3 and IL-17 expression in gastritis, GIN, and gastric cancer. (3) Kruskal-Wallis H test compared IL-17 or p-Stat 3 expression in gastric cancer, GIN and gastritis; Non-parametric test compared difference of IL-17 expression and p-Stat3 activation level between randomized and disease progression groups indifferent gastric diseases.Results: (1)The results of immunohistochemistry showed that as the degree of disease increased, the staining increased too; (2) There were differences in Stat3 activation level and IL-17 expression between gastritis, GIN and gastric cancer tissues (P<0.001). With the disease increasingly serious, the Stat3 activation level and IL-17 expression are higher; (3) The ROC of p-Stat3 is the largest (0.923, P < 0.001) and the ROC of IL-17 is 0.844 (P < 0.001); (4) The activated Stat3 and IL-17 both are the risk factors of gastric cancer.Conclusions: (1) With the disease increasingly serious, the Stat3 activation level and IL-17 expression are higher. (2) There is a high correlation between activated Stat3 and IL-17 expression, both of which are risk factors for gastric cancer.
MicroRNA 29c-3p indicates advanced liver fibrosis/cirrhosis in univentricular heart patients with and without Fontan palliation
Authors: Abu-Halima Masood , Meese Eckart , Saleh Mohamad Ali , Keller Andreas , Abdul-Khaliq Hashim , Raedle-Hurst Tanja
Published: February 2020

Background: In patients with chronic liver disease that usually results in liver fibrosis, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be of diagnostic and prognostic value. The present study aims to identify those miRNAs in patients with univentricular heart (UVH) disease with and without Fontan palliation that may be associated with advanced liver fibrosis/cirrhosis.Methods: A large panel of human miRNA arrays were used to determine miRNA abundance profiles in the blood of 48 UVH patients with and without Fontan palliation and 32 age and gender-matched healthy controls. The most abundantly expressed miRNAs identified by microarray analysis were correlated to prognostic scores of advanced liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and selected miRNAs validated by RT-qPCR.Results: According to microarray analysis, 50 miRNAs were found to be significantly abundant in UVH patients of which miR-29b-3p and miR-29c-3p were significantly correlated to the model of end-stage liver disease (MELD)-Albumin and albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) score. According to ROC analysis, a MELD-Albumin score ≥ 11 was best predicted by total bilirubin (AUC 0.985, P=0.005), collapsibility index (AUC 0.952, P=0.009) and miR-29c-3p (AUC 0.941, P=0.011) and the most significant predictors of an ALBI score >−2.6 were collapsibility index (AUC 0.998, P<0.001) and albumin (AUC 0.981, P=0.006). In the multivariate analysis, miR-29c-3p turned out to be an independent predictor of advanced liver fibrosis/cirrhosis as defined by a MELD-Albumin score ≥ 11 (P=0.004) and ALBI score > −2.6 (P=0.009), respectively.Conclusion: In UVH patients with and without Fontan palliation, miR-29c-3p seems to be an independent predictor of advanced liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and thus may be used in the risk assessment of these patients.
Antibody responses to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, influenza A virus, and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae from weaning to the end of the finisher stage in fourteen groups of pigs in Ontario
Authors: Raaphorst Elana , Farzan Abdolvahab , Friendship Robert M. , Lillie Brandon N.
Published: February 2020

Background Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, swine influenza, and mycoplasmal pneumonia are some of the most prevalent respiratory diseases affecting swine farm productivity in Canada. Monitoring for the prevalence of the infectious agents associated with these diseases on farm may help to improve herd-specific control strategies and to minimize the impact of disease on commercial swine farms. The objectives of this study were to investigate antibody responses to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), influenza A virus (IAV), and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae ( M. hyopneumoniae ) from weaning to the end of the finisher stage on a subset of commercial swine farms in Ontario and to examine the effects of nursery diet on antibody responses. Results Serology found 8, 61, and 31% of pigs at weaning, 1, 31, and 22% at the end of nursery, 8, 38, and 18% at the end of grower, and 11, 48, and 25% at the end of the finisher stage tested seropositive for PRRSV, IAV, and M. hyopneumoniae, respectively. Of the groups tested for PRRSV, IAV, and M. hyopneumoniae, 3, 14, and 5 groups had > 20% of pigs that tested seropositive at least once over the course of production (“high seropositivity”). In general, seropositivity was more likely to be lower at the end of nursery compared to the other production stages for all three pathogens, and more likely to be higher for PRRSV and IAV at weaning, end of grower, and end of finisher. Pigs that were seropositive for PRRSV were more likely to be seropositive forM. hyopneumoniae (p < 0.001). Overall, pigs fed a low complexity diet during nursery were more likely to be seropositive for PRRSV (p < 0.001) and IAV (p = 0.04). Conclusions This study provides information regarding changes in serum antibody in pigs across different stages of production and highlights periods of vulnerability. Additionally, these findings may encourage further research into the effects of nursery diet complexity on disease susceptibility and immune response.
A new perspective on the rise of tuberculosis cases: Communal living
Authors: Kurtuluş Şerif , Can Remziye , Sak Zafer Hasan Ali
Published: February 2020

Background: Forced migration caused by wars causes health parameters to regress including tuberculosis. Wars are obstacles that stand in our way to eradicate tuberculosis and they are the reason why it has been such a threat to human life. To determine the relationship between living area and family type and the number of contacts among refugees and Turkish citizens who have been diagnosed with tuberculosis.Method: This research has been conducted with 194 patients with tuberculosis who admitted to The Faculty of Medicine, Harran University between the years of 2012-2019. The number of contacted people has been provided with the patients' folders. Reaching their homes, the patients' family types and living areas have been recorded among the volunteer attenders.Result: 98 (%50,5) percent of the members of the study group are refugees, the number of the contacts, among screened refugees, is 549 while the size of the living area is 7740m2. 96 (%49,5) percent of the members of the study group are citizens of the Turkish Republic(TR), the number of the contacs, among screened TR citizens, is 487, while the size of the living space is 11370 m2. 57 percent (%58,2) of the refugee families were found in communal living style while 47 (%49,0) percent of TR citizens were found living in a nuclear family system. It has been found that the statistical significance between the living area and the family type is caused by the difference between the nuclear family system and the communal living style. The average living space of TR citizens is meaningfully higher than the average living area of the refugees.Conclusion: It has been found that tuberculosis infects more people in war-related life conditions and this is caused by people -who are not blood-related- living together, communal living in other words. This is new information for the literature. The exposed number being higher in refugees than TR citizens proves that the refugees living out of camp are present in communal living spaces more often. The obstacles to reaching health services for refugees living out of camp should be examined.
Fertility desire and associated factors among ART user reproductive-age women in public health facility in Gondar city administration Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Gebrekidan Eyob Araya , Geremew Alehegn Bishaw , Bisetegn Telake Azale
Published: February 2020

Background: Antiretroviral therapy scales up globally and in Ethiopia, as a result, AIDS-related mortality has reduced, but the number of new HIV infections increasing. Antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia gives a chance of living longer for reproductive-age women. Prevention of pregnancy among HIV positive women is the second WHO prongs of HIV transmission with respecting women’s reproductive rights. Antiretroviral therapy uses improve the health of HIV positive women using and women's fertility desire increasing. Therefore this study aimed to assess the fertility desire and associated factors among ART user reproductive-age women. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study design conducted from November 2-30/2018. The calculated sample size was 400 and study participants were selected by using systematic random sampling. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect data. A binary logistic regression model was employed and adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval used to consider statistically significant Results: A total of 397 clients were participated in the study, giving a response rate of 99.3%. The proportion of fertility desire in this study was 55.2 %(95% CI, 50.4%- 60.2%). A duration of marriage < 4 year [AOR=6.9(95 CI: 1.65, 28.81)], and 5–9 years duration of marriage [AOR= 13.8 (95% CI: 2.39, 80.39)] higher as compared to 15 years and above, family influence 3.4 times more likely to have fertility desire than have no family influence [AOR= 3.4 (95% CI: 1.06, 11.25)], partner desire 4.3 times more likely have had fertility desires as compared to with counterpart [AOR= 4.3 (95% CI: 1.93,9.41)], and discussion with health care provider 66 % less likely to have fertility desire as compared with counterpart [AOR = 0.34 (95% CI: 0.39, 3.31)]. Conclusion: In this study, we have identified a high proportion of fertility desire among ART user reproductive-age women. The duration of marital status, partner influence, family influence, and discussion of health care were associated with fertility desire. Family-oriented counseling, partner involvement on reproductive health services should be encouraged to support the rights of all women to safely achieve their fertility. Keywords: Fertility desire, reproductive age, women on ART.
Consumption of aquatic products and meats in Chinese residents: A cross-sectional study in 2014
Authors: Jiang Liying , Shen Junjie , Li Jianwen , Wang Huijun , Liu Sana , Su Chang , Liu Yujie , Zhuang Xun , Liu Aidong
Published: February 2020

Objective To characterize the distribution, potential determinants of the consumption of aquatic products and meats, as well as part of the nutritional behavior of Chinese residents in a nationwide representative sample.Methods The study was conducted using a multi-stage stratified random cluster sampling technique and a population-proportional sampling procedure in 14 provinces in China. Chinese subjects aged 3 years and above (n = 24,106) completed a face-to-face dietary interview from July to October in 2014.Results The average daily consumption of meat and aquatic products for the all-aged population was 70.9 g and 48.0 g, respectively, which aligned with Dietary Guidelines (40-75g/d) for Chinese Residents (2016). Intake of aquatic products among Chinese people was relatively insufficient, especially for adolescents and elder people (<40g/d). Males, mainly aged 19-60, generally consumed too much meat (>80g/d), and 19-44 grouping consumed more than 70g/d of red meat. Besides, urban residents and individuals with higher SES have exhibited more comprehensive dietary preferences than rural ones and those with a lower SES do. Women and the higher SES group tend to be closer to the dietary guidelines for the Chinese.Conclusions The consumption of meat and aquatic products varied with age, sex, region and SES. Detecting patterns in consumption is particularly relevant for policy makers, researchers and health professionals in the formulation of dietary recommendations and estimating potential health outcomes.
Oral treatment with iododiflunisal delays beta amyloid plaque formation in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer Disease: a Longitudinal in vivo molecular imaging study
Authors: Rejc Luka , Gómez-Vallejo Vanessa , Rios Xabier , Cossio Unai , Baz Zuriñe , Mujica Edurne , Giao Tiago , Cotrina Ellen Y , Jiménez-Barbero Jesús , Quintana Jordi , Arsequell Gemma , Cardoso Isabel , Llop Jordi
Published: February 2020

Background: Transthyretin (TTR) is a tetrameric, Amyloid-beta (Aβ)-binding protein, which has been shown to reduce Aβ toxicity both in vitro and in vivo. The ability of TTR to interact with Aβ can be enhanced by a series of small molecules that stabilize its tetrameric form. Because of this, TTR stabilizers might act as disease modifying drugs in Alzheimer Disease (AD). In this work, we monitored the therapeutic efficacy of two TTR stabilizers, iododiflunisal (IDIF) and the repurposed drug tolcapone, by longitudinal assessment of Aβ deposition in an animal model of AD using positron emission tomography (PET) with [18F]florbetaben. Methods: Mice (AβPPswe/PS1A246E/TTR+/-; n=21) were divided into 3 groups (n=7 per group): iododiflunisal (IDIF)-treated, tolcapone-treated and non-treated. The treatment, administered in the drinking water at a dose of 100 mg/Kg/day, was started at 5 months of age. The level of Aβ deposition was assessed at ages=5, 9, 11, and 14 months by PET imaging using [18F]florbetaben. Treatment efficacy was determined based on radiotracer uptake in the hippocampus (HIP) and the cortex (CTX) with respect to the cerebellum (CB) and presented as standardized uptake value ratios (SUVr). Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis was performed at 14 months of age to further support in vivo results. Results: SUVr of [18F]florbetaben in CTX and HIP of non-treated animals progressively increased from age=5 to 11 months and stabilized afterwards. In contrast, [18F]florbetaben uptake in HIP of IDIF-treated animals remained constant between ages=5 and 11 months and significantly increased at 14 months. At age=11 months, IDIF-treated group showed significantly lower SUVr values than those obtained for non-treated animals. In tolcapone-treated group, SUVr progressively increased with time, but at lower rate than in non-treated group. Moderate treatment effect of tolcapone suggests different mechanism of action than IDIF. No significant treatment effect was observed in CTX of IDIF- or tolcapone-treated animals. Results from IHC matched the in vivo data at age=14 months. Conclusions: The TTR stabilizer IDIF shows good Aβ-protective effect. Nevertheless, Aβ levels in treated and control animals reached similar values at the end of the study. Furthermore, differences in efficacy between IDIF and tolcapone, suggest different mechanisms of action.
Progressive memory circuit impairments along with Alzheimer’s disease neuropathology spread: evidence from in vivo neuroimaging
Authors: Li Kaicheng , Wang Shuyue , Luo Xiao , Zeng Qingze , Jiaerken Yerfan , Xu Xiaopei , Wang Chao , Liu Xiaocao , Li Zheyu , Zhao Shuai , Zhang Tianyi , Fu Yanv , Chen Yanxing , Liu Zhirong , Zhou Jiong , Huang Peiyu , Zhang Minming
Published: February 2020

Background Along with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) continuum, AD neuropathologies propagate trans-neuronally, causing the memory circuit disorganization and memory deficit. However, no evidence supports the hypothesis in vivo to date. Methods Based on biological diagnosis criteria, we divided subjects into 5 groups by setting the CSF cutoff point at 192 pg/ml for Aβ 1-42 (A) and 23 pg/ml for P-tau 181 (T): Group 0, cognitively normal (CN) with normal Aβ 1-42 and P-tau 181 (A−T−); Group 1, CN with A+T−; Group 2, CN with A+T+; Group 3, mild cognitive impairments (MCI) with A+T+; Group 4, AD with A+T+. We defined the memory circuit as the hippocampus (HP), cingulum-angular bundles (CAB), and precuneus cortex, respectively representing the starting point, core connecting fiber, and connected downstream cortex. Then we assessed the HP subfields volume, CAB diffusion metric (whole tract-level and waypoint-wise), and precuneus volume. Finally, we correlated neuroimaging measures with cognitive and neuropathological data. Results Along AD continuum, HP subfields volume initially increased and then decreased, starting from the early stage (CN with A+T-). CAB integrity loss on both whole tract-level and waypoint-wise in MCI and AD with A+T+ and progressed along AD continuum. Regarding precuneus, we only found the decreased volume in MCI and AD with A+T+, with CN stage spared. Further, memory circuit structure impairment correlated with more AD neuropathology and worse memory profile. Conclusion Our results support the tau propagation theory in the memory circuit, suggested that the memory circuit impairments starting from the HP, then propagating to the downstream projection tract and cortex.
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of 40 patients with periorbital metastasis of neuroblastoma
Authors: Qin Jing , Zhao Qian , Jin Mei , Xu Xiao , Yue Zhixia , Qin Maoquan , Fan Hongjun , Yu Tong , He Lejian , Qin Hong , Ma Xiaoli
Published: February 2020

Background This study was performed to summarize the clinical characteristics of patients with periorbital metastasis of neuroblastoma (NB) and analyze the short-term prognosis. Methods This study included 40 patients with periorbital metastasis of NB from March 2007 to March 2018. The patients’ clinical characteristics and short-term prognosis were retrospectively analyzed. Results The 40 patients comprised 25 boys and 15 girls with a median age at onset of 31 months (range, 8–132 months). The patients’ symptoms included a periorbital mass and eye bruising (n = 37, 92.5%), limb pain (n = 14, 35.0%), a head and neck mass (n = 8, 20.0%), fever (n = 8, 20.0%), an abdominal mass (n = 4, 10.0%), weakness (n = 3, 7.5%), abdominal pain (n = 2, 5.0%), anemia (n = 2, 5.0%), and others (n = 3, 7.5%). All 40 patients had stage IV, high-risk NB. Various auxiliary structures of the eye were involved: ocular muscles (n = 11, 27.5%), lacrimal glands (n = 4, 10.0%), optic nerve (n = 2, 5.0%), and eyelid (n = 1 2.5%). Fifteen patients (37.5%) had tumor invasion in a periorbital sinus cavity. All patients had bone marrow and bone metastasis. Of 38 patients with a known MYCN gene status, 17 patients (44.7%) had MYCN amplification. The median follow-up duration was 19 months (range, 4–144 months). The 5-year event-free survival rate was 6%, and the 5-year overall survival rate was 16%. Conclusions Patients with periorbital metastasis of NB often have multi-organ metastases, extremely high rates of MYCN amplification and bone marrow metastasis, and a poor short-term prognosis.
Perspectives and engagement of caregivers in the care of babies under on Bubble CPAP
Authors: Salimu Sangwani , Kinshella Maggie , Marianne Marianne , Banda Mwai , Newberry Laura , Dube Queen , Molyneux Elizabeth M , Goldfarb David , Kawaza Kondwani , Nyondo-Mipando Alinane Linda
Published: February 2020

Background Severe respiratory distress is a leading cause of mortality among neonates in Malawi. Despite evidence on the safety, cost effectiveness and efficacy of bubble continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in managing the condition, its use in Malawian health facilities is limited and little is known about health workers engagement with perspectives of bubble CPAP. The purpose of this study was to explore caregiver perspectives for bubble CPAP at both central and district hospitals and key factors that enable effective caregiver engagement in Malawi. Methods This was a descriptive qualitative study employing secondary analysis of 46 health care worker in-depth interviews. We interviewed the health workers about their thoughts on caregiver perspectives regarding use of bubble CPAP. We implemented the study at a tertiary facility and three district hospitals in southern Malawi. This was a part of a larger study to understand barriers and facilitators to implementing neonatal innovations in resource-constrained hospitals. Interviews were thematically analysed in NVivo 12 software (QSR International, Melbourne, Australia). Health workers were purposively selected to include nurses, clinicians and district health management involved in the use of bubble CPAP. Results Emerging issues included caregiver fears around bubble CPAP equipment as potentially harmful to their new-borns and how inadequate information provided to caregivers exacerbated knowledge gaps and was associated with refusal of care. However, good communication between health care providers and caregivers was associated with acceptance of care. Caregivers’ decision-making was influenced by relatives and peer advocates were helpful in supporting caregivers and alleviating fears or misconceptions about bubble CPAP. ConclusionsSince caregivers turn to relatives and peers for support, there is need to ensure that both relatives and peers are counselled on bubble CPAP for improved understanding and uptake. Health workers need to provide simplified, accurate, up-to-date information on the intervention as per caregivers’ level of understanding. Notably, contextualised comprehensible information will help alleviate caregivers’ fear and anxieties about bubble CPAP. Key words : bubble CPAP, neonates, caregiver, perspectives, peers, Malawi
Metataxonomic sequencing reveals compositional shifts within the denture-associated microbiome in pneumonia
Authors: Twigg Joshua Alexander , Smith Ann , Haury Clotilde , Wilson Melanie J , Lees Jonathan , Waters Mark , Williams David W
Published: February 2020

Background Bacterial pneumonia affects a disproportionate number of the elderly in the UK, with substantial morbidity and mortality. Mounting evidence implicates removable dentures as a potential nidus for respiratory pathogens to form a reservoir which could seed colonisation and infection of respiratory tissues in susceptible individuals. However, research evaluating the denture-associated microbiome in patients with an active diagnosis of pneumonia is lacking. The aim of this study was to characterise denture-associated oral bacterial communities by metataxonomic sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. The prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among two representative pathogenic species Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was also assessed. Finally, the role of salivary cytokines as diagnostic biomarkers was explored. Results There were significant shifts observed in species composition, diversity and richness in the denture-associated microbiome of pneumonia patients. Importantly, the relative abundance of putative respiratory pathogens in the denture-associated microbiota of pneumonia patients was significantly increased compared with respiratorily healthy care home residents. The magnitude of this increase was approximately three-fold in denture-associated bacterial communities compared with other oral sites examined. Antimicrobial resistance was equivocal between microbes isolated from both participant cohorts, highlighting the potential for oral biofilms to protect microbes from systemic antimicrobial therapy. While salivary cytokine profiles did not correlate with pneumonia status, the concentration of IL-6 and IL-8 positively correlated with the relative abundance of putative respiratory pathogens on denture surfaces. Conclusions This is the first study to directly examine compositional shifts in the denture-associated oral microbiome in respiratory infection, providing a basis for disentangling potential causal relationships.
Short stem hip arthroplasty provides a more physiological load transfer: a comparative finite element analysis study
Authors: Yan Shuang G , Chevalier Yan , Liu Fanxiao , Hua Xingyi , Schreiner Anna , Jansson Volkmar , Schmidutz Florian
Published: February 2020

Background Short stem total hip arthroplasty (SHA) preserves femoral bone stock and is supposed to provide a more natural load transfer compared to standard stem total hip arthroplasty (THA). As comparative biomechanical reference data are rare we used a finite element analysis (FEA) approach to compare cortical load transfer after implantations of a cementless short and standard stem in native biomechanical femora. Methods The subject specific finite element models of biomechanical femora, one native and two with implanted SHA (Metha, B.Braun Aesculap) and standard THA (CLS, Zimmer-Biomet), were generated from computed tomography datasets. The loading configuration was performed with an axial force of 1400 N. Von Mises stress was used to investigate the change of cortical stress distribution. Results Compared to the native femur, a considerable reduction of cortical stress was recorded after implantation of SHA and standard THA. The SHA showed less reduction proximally with a significant higher metaphyseal cortical stress compared to standard THA. Moreover, the highest peak stresses were observed metaphyseal for the SHA stem while for the standard THA high stress pattern was observed more distally. Conclusion Both, short and standard THA, cause unloading of the proximal femur. However, SHA features a clearly favorable pattern in terms of a lower reduction proximally and improved metaphyseal loading, while standard THA shows a higher proximal unloading and more distal load transfer. These load pattern implicate a reduced stress shielding proximally for SHA and might be able to translate in a better bone preservation.