bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Planar Anteversion Measurements using Anteroposterior Radiographs
Authors: Lee Gwang Chul , Lee Sang Hong , Kang Sin Wook , Park Hyung Suk , Jo Suenghwan
Published: November 2019

Background
Several methods using simple anteroposterior (AP) radiographs have been suggested for the measurement of anteversion of the cup component after total hip arthroplasty. Herein, we compared six widely used anteversion measurement methods using two different types of AP radiograph, the conventional pelvis AP and hip-centered AP radiographs, to identify the measurement method and the type of radiograph that would provide the highest accuracy and reliability.

Methods
We developed two custom-made bi-planar anteversion measurement models for the validation test. The models were designed for pelvis AP and hip-centered AP radiographs, respectively. The radiographs were acquired using the inclination angles of both models, changing from 10° to 70° at 10° increments. For each inclination angle, anteversion was changed from 0° to 30° at 5° increments. The measurements were obtained independently by two orthopedic surgeons blinded from each other’s measurements, using the methods of 1) Pradhan et al., 2) Lewinnek et al., 3) Widmer et al., 4) Liaw et al., 5) Hassan et al., and 6) Ackland et al. The measurements were repeated after 2 months. The accuracy, compared with that of the reference angle, and intra-observer and inter-observer reliabilities of each method were calculated.

Results
The highest accuracy was found when the method of Liaw et al. was used with hip-centered AP radiographs, which showed a difference of 1.37° ± 1.73 from the reference angle. Moreover, regardless of the type of radiograph, the methods by Pradhan et al., Lewinnek et al., and Liaw et al. showed excellent correlations with the reference anteversion. However, substantial differences were found when the methods by Widmer et al., Hassan et al., and Ackland et al. were used, regardless of the type of radiograph used. We also found no significant difference in anteversions between the measurements made on pelvic and hip-centered AP radiographs. Both interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities were high for all the measurements tested.

Conclusions
The methods by Pradhan et al., Liaw et al., and Lewinnek et al. may provide relatively accurate anteversion measurements with high reliability, regardless of the type of radiograph.
Treatment of Chronic Active Antibody-mediated Rejection in Renal Transplant Recipients – A single center retrospective study
Authors: Chiu Hsien-Fu , Wen Mei-Chin , Wu Ming-Ju , Chen Cheng-Hsu , Yu Tung-Min , Chuang Ya-Wen , Huang Shih-Ting , Tsai Shang-Feng , Lo Ying-Chih , Ho Hao-Chung , Shu Kuo-Hsiung
Published: November 2019

Background: A plethora of evidences suggest that the most important cause of late graft loss in renal transplant recipients is chronic active antibody-mediated rejection. However, there are no consensus on treatment strategies.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed clinical and pathological data of renal transplant recipients who received kidney graft biopsy with confirmed diagnosis of chronic active antibody-mediated rejection in the past 7 years. The patients were divided into two groups according to treatment strategy: Group 1: aggressive treatment (double filtration plasmapheresis and one of the followings: rituximab, intravenous immunoglobulin, antithymogycte globulin, bortezomib, or methylprednisolone pulse therapy); and group 2: supportive treatment.
Results: From February 2009 to December 2017, a total of 82 patients with biopsy-proven chronic antibody mediated rejection were identified. Kaplan-Meier analysis of death-censored graft survival showed a worse survival in group 2 ( P = 0.015 by log-rank test). Adverse event-free survival was lower in group 1, whereas patient survival was no significant different. Proteinuria and supportive treatment were independent risk factors for graft loss in multivariate analysis.
Conclusions : Aggressive treatment was associated with better graft outcome. However, higher incidence of adverse events merit personalized treatment, especially for those with higher risk of infection. Appropriate prophylactic antibiotics are recommended for aggressive treatment patients.
Key words: chronic active antibody mediated rejection, kidney transplantation, graft survival, adverse events
Diagnostic accuracy of history taking, physical examination and imaging for phalangeal, metacarpal and carpal fractures: a systematic review update.
Authors: Krastman Patrick , Mathijssen Nina M. , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M.A. , Kraan Gerald , Runhaar Jos
Published: November 2019

Background The standard diagnostic work-up for hand and wrist fractures consists of history taking, physical examination and imaging if needed, but the supporting evidence for this work-up is limited. The purpose of this study was to systematically examine the diagnostic accuracy of tests for hand and wrist fractures. Methods A systematic search for relevant studies was performed. Methodological quality was assessed and sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were extracted from the eligible studies. Results Of the 35 eligible studies, two described the diagnostic accuracy of history taking for hand and wrist fractures. Physical examination with or without radiological examination for diagnosing scaphoid fractures (five studies) showed Se, Sp, accuracy, PPV and NPV ranging from 15-100%, 13-98%, 55-73%, 14-73% and 75-100%, respectively. Physical examination with radiological examination for diagnosing other carpal bone fractures (one study) showed a Se of 100%, with the exception of the triquetrum (75%). Physical examination for diagnosing phalangeal and metacarpal fractures (one study) showed Se, Sp, accuracy, PPV and NPV ranging from 26-55%, 13-89%, 45-76%, 41-77% and 63-75%, respectively. Imaging modalities of scaphoid fractures showed predominantly low values for PPV and the highest values for Sp and NPV (24 studies). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Ultrasonography (US) and Bone Scintigraphy (BS) were comparable in diagnostic accuracy for diagnosing a scaphoid fracture, with an accuracy ranging from 85-100%, 79-100%, 49-100% and 86-97%, respectively. Imaging for metacarpal and finger fractures showed Se, Sp, accuracy, PPV and NPV ranging from 73-100%, 78-100%, 70-100%, 79-100% and 70-100%, respectively. Conclusions Only two studies were found on the diagnostic accuracy of history taking for hand and wrist fractures in the current review. Physical examination was of moderate use for diagnosing a scaphoid fracture and of limited use for diagnosing phalangeal, metacarpal and remaining carpal fractures. MRI, CT and BS were found to be moderately accurate for the definitive diagnosis of clinically suspected carpal fractures.
Methadone-Induced Encephalopathy: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Haghighi-Morad Maryam , Naseri Zahra , Jamshidi Nazila , Hassanian-Moghaddam Hossein , Zamani Nasim , Ahmad-Molaei Leila
Published: November 2019

Background: Accidental ingestion or consumption of supra-therapeutic doses of methadone can result in neurological sequelae in humans. We aimed to determine the neurological deficits of methadone-poisoned patients admitted to a referral poisoning hospital using brain magnetic resonance (MR) and diffusion weighted (DW) imaging.

Methods: In this retrospective study, brain MRIs of the patients admitted to our referral center due to methadone intoxication were reviewed. Methadone intoxication was confirmed based on history, congruent clinical presentation, and confirmatory urine analysis . Each patient had an MRI with Echo planar T1, T2, FLAIR, and DWI and apparent deficient coefficient (ADC) sequences without contrast media. Abnormalities were recorded and categorized based on their anatomic location and sequence.

Results: Ten patients with abnormal MRI findings were identified. Eight had acute- and two had delayed-onset encephalopathy. Imaging findings included bilateral confluent or patchy T2 and FLAIR high signal intensity in cerebral white matter, cerebellar involvement, and bilateral occipito-parietal cortex diffusion restriction in DWI. Internal capsule involvement was identified in two patients while abnormality in globus pallidus and head of caudate nuclei were reported in another. Bilateral cerebral symmetrical confluent white matter signal abnormality with sparing of subcortical U-fibers on T2 and FLAIR sequences were observed in both patients with delayed-onset encephalopathy.

Conclusions : Acute- and delayed-onset encephalopathies are two rare adverse events detected in methadone-intoxicated patients. Brain MRI findings can be helpful in detection of methadone-induced encephalopathy.
Socioeconomic status of pregnancy outcomes in Chongqing, Southwest China
Authors: Zhang Ting , Zhou Wei , Tan Qiang , Tang Ping , Kuang Tao , Zhang Rui-Yuan , Chen Yu-Ting , Xia Yin-Yin , Han Ting-Li , Chang Chen , Qi Hong-Bo , Zhang Hua , Baker Philip N
Published: November 2019

Background: Findings of socioeconomic status (SES) effects on adverse pregnancy outcomes varies depending on pregnancy complications, SES indicators, countries, regions, and races. Our aim was to compare three SES indicators (maternal educational level, participant and partner’s income and maternal occupation) and to investigate the relationship with adverse pregnancy outcomes in Chongqing, Southwest China. Methods: Between 2015 and 2017, we analyzed data from 1273 women in Chongqing, China, enrolled in the Complex Lipids in Mothers and Babies (CLIMB) trial in which mothers received complex lipid supplementation during pregnancy. Information on SES (maternal educational level, participant and partner’s income and maternal occupation) was collected during face-to-face interviews using standard questionnaires. Pregnancy outcomes considered were gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), premature rupture of membrane (PROM), cesarean section (C-section), preterm birth (PTB), macrosomia, low birth weight (LBW), large for gestational age (LGA), and small for gestational age (SGA). Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for pregnancy outcomes in relation to SES. Supplementation had no effect on pregnancy outcomes, so our analysis did not subdivide our participants on this basis. Results: Women who were managers or professionals were less likely to suffer from macrosomia and LGA. After adjustment for potential confounders, the ORs for macrosomia and LGA were 0.44 (95% CI: 0.21, 0.95) and 0.48 (95% CI: 0.26, 0.89), respectively. Other pregnancy outcomes were not affected by maternal occupation. Moreover, no significant relationships were observed between the other two SES indicators (participant and partner’s income and maternal education) and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Conclusions: Our findings suggested that maternal occupation was a more reliable predictor of pregnancy outcomes than maternal education and participant and partner’s income.
Association between Dietary Selenium Intake and the Prevalence of Osteoporosis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Yuqing , Xie Dongxing , Li Jiatian , Long Huizhong , Wu Jing , Wu Ziying , He Hongyi , Wang Haochen , Yang Tuo , Wang Yilun
Published: November 2019

Objective
To examine the correlation between dietary selenium (Se) intake and the prevalence of osteoporosis (OP) in the general middle-aged and older population in China.
Methods
Data for analyses were collected from a population based cross-sectional study performed at the Xiangya Hospital Health Management Centre. Dietary Se intake was evaluated using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. OP was diagnosed on the basis of bone mineral density scans using a compact radiographic absorptiometry system. The correlation between dietary Se intake and the prevalence of OP was primarily examined by multivariable logistic regression.
Results
This cross-sectional study included a total of 6267 subjects (mean age: 52.2 ± 7.4 years; 42% women), and the prevalence of OP among the included subjects was 9.6% (2.3% in men and 19.7% in women). Compared with the lowest quartile, the energy intake, age, gender and body mass index (BMI)-adjusted odds ratios of OP were 0.72 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55-0.94), 0.72 (95% CI 0.51-1.01) and 0.47 (95% CI 0.31-0.73) for the second, third and fourth quartiles of dietary Se intake, respectively (P for trend = 0.001). The results remained consistent in male and female subjects. Adjustment for additional potential confounders (i.e., smoking status, drinking status, physical activity level, nutritional supplements, diabetes, hypertension, fibre intake, and calcium intake) did not cause substantial changes to the results.
Conclusions
In the middle-aged and older humans, participants with lower levels of dietary Se intake have a higher prevalence of OP in a dose-response manner.
Adipose mesenchymal stem cell transplantation alleviates spinal cord injury-induced neuroinflammation partly by suppressing the Jagged1/Notch pathway
Authors: Zhilai Zhou , Xiaobo Tian , Biling Mo , Huali Xu , Shun Yao , Zixiang Huang , Lishan Huang , Huan Xie , Liwei Xu , Hui Zhang
Published: November 2019

Background The therapeutic effects of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADSC) transplantation have been demonstrated in several models of central nervous system (CNS) injury and are thought to involve the modulation of the inflammatory response. However, the exact underlying molecular mechanism is poorly understood. Activation of the Jagged1/Notch signaling pathway is thought to involve inflammatory and gliotic events in the CNS. Here, we elucidated the effect of ADSC transplantation on the inflammatory reaction after spinal cord injury (SCI) and the potential mechanism mediated by Jagged1/Notch signaling pathway suppression.Methods Using a mouse model of compression SCI, ADSCs and Jagged1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) were injected into the spinal cord. Locomotor function, spinal cord tissue morphology and the levels of various proteins and transcripts were compared between groups.Results ADSC treatment resulted in significant downregulation of proinflammatory mediator expression and reduced ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1) and ED1 staining in the injured spinal cord, promoting the survival of neurons. These changes were accompanied by improved functional recovery. The augmentation of the Jagged1/Notch signaling pathway after SCI was suppressed by ADSC transplantation. The inhibition of the Jagged1/Notch signaling pathway by Jagged1 siRNA resulted in a decrease in SCI-induced proinflammatory cytokines as well as the activation of microglia. Furthermore, Jagged1 knockdown suppressed the phosphorylation of JAK/STAT3 following SCI.Conclusion The results of this study demonstrated that the therapeutic effects of ADSCs in SCI mice were partly due to Jagged1/notch signaling pathway inhibition and a subsequent reduction in JAK/STAT3 phosphorylation.
Recognition of stroke among community residents and the improvement after intensive health education: A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Zhong Xuemin , Xu Ronghua
Published: November 2019

Background: This study aimed to investigate stroke recognition in a community population (including high risk groups of stroke) in Jinjiang District of Chengdu and to strengthen the publicity of the impact of stroke-related knowledge on the cognitive level of community residents with stroke. Methods: By conducting an epidemiological survey, 9 communities in Jinjiang District were sampled, and a questionnaire on stroke related knowledge was designed to investigate the community residents in Jinjiang District of Chengdu City. We carried out stroke health education activities with the theme of "understanding stroke", and evaluated the impact.Results: There were 1685 valid questionnaires, and the awareness level of stroke risk among community residents in Jinjiang District of Chengdu was 11.4%. The proportion of people who recognized that there was a risk of stroke increased with the increase in the number of risk factors (P < 0.001). Participants with three or more risk factors were aware that the risk of stroke was only 40.3%. The recognition rate of stroke warning symptoms among community residents was 29.8–59.5%. Among them, the recognition rate of common stroke symptoms such as limb weakness, language disorder and imbalance was more than 50%, and the cognitive proportion of rare symptoms including monocular or binocular blurred vision and severe headache with no known cause was only about 1%. When faced with five sudden stroke warning symptoms, the proportion of participants who chose to dial 120 was about 41.5%. Nearly 10% of the respondents chose to consult a doctor, take medicine or wait. After strengthening publicity and education, there was a significant improvement in the identification of stroke risk factors, stroke warning symptoms, and stroke management. The number of respondents who chose to dial 120 increased from 59.2% to 82.7%. Conclusion: The cognitive level of stroke among community residents in Jinjiang District of Chengdu is low. Strengthening publicity and education on stroke-related knowledge and post-stroke treatment can significantly improve patients’ cognition of stroke-related knowledge and enhance community residents' awareness of giving priority to dialing 120 after the onset of stroke symptoms.
Acute kidney injury in Plasmodium vivax malaria hospitalized patients in Manaus, Brazilian Amazon: are we underestimating the real burden?
Authors: Santos Thalie , Brito-Sousa Jose Diego , Val Fernando , Sachett Jacqueline , Mo Miguel MD , Cubas-Vega Nadia , López-Tejo Paola , Safe Izabella , Bessa Rebeca , Alecrim Maria Graças , Israel Karla , Martinez-Espinosa Flor , Bôtto-Menezes Camila , Melo Gisely , Bassat Quique , Lacerda Marcus , Monteiro Wuelton
Published: November 2019

Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of Plasmodium falciparum malaria and can also occur secondary to P. malariae infections. Its association with P. vivax malaria is not well estimated neither understood.Methods Retrospective assessment of medical records was conducted among P. vivax malaria hospitalized patients in a reference hospital of Manaus, Brazilian Amazon, from 2009 to 2017. AKI was classified according to Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criteria and through the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for severe malaria. Patients diagnosed with primaquine-induced hemolysis due to confirmed glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd) and chronic renal failure were excluded. Prevalence of AKI and factors associated to this complication were assessed.Results Out of 28,095 P. vivax malaria diagnoses during the study period in the reference center, 638 cases (2.3%) required hospitalization; with 433 (67.8%) of those patients having at least one creatinine measure. Twenty-two patients (5.1%) were diagnosed with AKI as per WHO criteria; 241 patients presented more than two creatinine measures, of which 117 (49.2%) patients had AKI per AKIN criteria. These were stratified in stage I (n=88; 75.2%), stage II (n=6; 5.1%), and stage III (n=23; 19.6%). Major risk factor for AKI was older age. Renal replacement therapy (dialysis) was necessary in 6 cases (1.4%).Conclusions AKI secondary to vivax malaria was not unfrequent amongst hospitalized patients and may be a potentially severe complication. WHO diagnostic criteria for malaria AKI was shown to underestimate the real burden of AKI. Renal impairment should be closely monitored especially in older patients.
Gibberellin mediates spermidine-induced salt tolerance and the expression of GT-3b in cucumber
Authors: Gong Xiaowen , Wang Yu , Liu Weikang , Kong Lei , Si Xinyu , Guo Shirong , Sun Jin
Published: November 2019

Background Transcription factor GT-3b binds to the GT-1 element in the promoter of S -adenosylmethionine synthase ( SAMs ) gene, the key gene of spermidine (Spd) biosynthesis, to regulate its expression, thereby increasing the salt tolerance of cucumber plants. Furthermore, exogenous Spd increases the transcript level and protein abundance of SAMs, which promotes the accumulation of endogenous polyamine. However, whether Spd regulation of SAMs depending on GT-3b is largely unknown. Here, we investigated the potential mechanism of Spd in regulating of GT-3b in cucumber seedlings under salt stress.Results Exogenous Spd significantly increased the tolerance to salt stress in cucumber, while its effects were compromised when application of methylglyoxal bis-guanylhydrazone (MGBG), an inhibitor of Spd biosynthesis. GT-3b was significantly induced by Spd under salt stress. The promoter sequence of GT-3b was predicted that there contained cis-acting regulatory elements response to phytohormones, such as gibberellin (GA), salicylic acid (SA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA). Foliar spray of GA 3 , SA and MeJA could induce the expression of GT-3b . Interestingly, exogenous Spd dramatically induced the expression of genes related to GA biosynthesis, increased the activity of gibberellin oxidase, and promoted the accumulation of GA 3 , but decreased in MGBG-treated plants. Furthermore, application of GA 3 increased the expression of GT-3b and salt tolerance, while blocked when treatment with paclobutrazol (PAZ), the GA biosynthesis inhibitor. In addition, Spd-induced salt tolerance was compromised in PAZ-treated plants.Conclusions Our results suggested that GA mediated Spd-induced salt tolerance and the expression of GT-3b in cucumber. These results provide new perspective for our understanding the molecular mechanism of Spd in regulation of salt tolerance in plants.
Transcriptome and metabolome reveal redirection of flavonoids in a white testa peanut mutant
Authors: Wan Liyun , Lei Yong , Yan Liying , Liu Yue , Pandey Manish Kumar , Wan Xia , Varshney Rajeev Kumar , Fang Jiahai , Liao Boshou
Published: November 2019

Background: Coat color determines both appearance and nutrient quality of peanut. White seed coat in peanut can enhance the processing efficiency and quality of peanut oil.An integrative analysis of transcriptomes, metabolomes and histocytology was performed on a white seed coat peanut mutant (wsc) and its wild type to investigate the regulatory mechanisms underlying color pigmentation. Result：Metabolomes revealed flavonoids were redirected in wsc, while multi-omics analyses of wsc mutant seeds and testae uncovered WSC influenced the flavonoids biosynthesis in testa as well as suberin formation, glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and amino acid metabolism. The mutation also enhanced brassinosteroid (BR), gibberellin (GA), and jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis as well as abscisic acid (ABA), auxin (AUX), BR and JA signaling. Further, co-expression analysis showed that flavonol synthase (FLS) genes co-expressed with MYB-bHLH-WD40 (MBW) complex member genes. Combining tissue expression patterns, genetic analyses, and the annotation of common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for these three stages revealed that three testa specific expressed candidate genes, Araip.M7RY3, Aradu.R8PMF and Araip.MHR6K were likely responsible for the white testa phenotype. WSC might be regulated expression competition between FLS and dihydroﬂavonol 4-reductase (DRF) by controlling hormone synthesis and signaling as well as the MBW complex. Conclusions: The results of this study therefore provide both candidate genes and novel approaches that can be applied to improve peanut with desirable seed coat color and flavonoid quality.
Identification and Functional Analysis of Serum Specific MiRNAs in Patients with Recurrent Aphthous Somatitis of Excess-heat or Yin-deficiency Syndrome
Authors: Bao Jie , Zhu Zhengyang , Zhang Xizhao , Huang Lin , Xu Li , Dou Xiaobing , Fan Yongsheng
Published: November 2019

Background. MiRNAs has become an important regulator in many processes. The purpose of our study is to screen the key serum miRNAs of different syndrome of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), to find new biomarkers for the diagnosis of RAS and to further explore their role in the pathogenesis of RAS.Method. Serum samples were collected from patients meeting the RAS diagnostic criteria of excess-heat or yin-deficiency syndrome and healthy individuals. Core miRNAs were then identified under miRNA microarray analyses. Target prediction and bioinformatic analyses were carried out and gene-pathway-networks were visualized to better understand the relationship between different genes and pathways.Result. (1) 90 individuals meeting the inclusion criteria were collected in this study, of which 30 were normal control, 30 were patients of excess-heat syndrome and the rest were patients of yin-deficiency syndrome. Among them, 9 miRNAs were screened out in excess-heat syndrome group, with 1 upregulated and 8 downregulated. And four random miRNAs (hsa-miR-20b-5p, hsa-miR-122-5p, hsa-miR-483-5p and hsa-miR-3197) were validated by real-time PCR method. 14 miRNAs were screened out in yin-deficiency syndrome group (7 upregulated and 7 downregulated). And hsa-miR-17-5p, hsa-miR-106-5p and hsa-miR-20b-5p were validated. (2) A total of 4776 target genes were identified for the validated 9 miRNAs in excess-heat syndrome group. These targets were enriched in GO categories including nervous system development, homophilic cell adhesion via plasma membrane adhesion molecules, and calcium ion binding and KEGG pathway such as proteoglycans in cancer, P13K-AKT signaling pathway and Calcium signaling pathway. 10172 target genes were identified for the validated 14 miRNAs in yin-deficiency syndrome group. The enriched GO categories included protein binding, positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter and membrane and enriched KEGG pathway included pathways in cancer, MAPK signaling pathway and Ras signaling pathway .Conclusion. Hsa-miR-20b-5p in patients with RAS could act as the novel biomarker for clinical diagnosis of the disease. It is upregulated in RAS patients of excess-heat syndrome while downregulated in patients of yin-deficiency syndrome. The PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway and related target genes may provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of excess-heat syndrome and yin-deficiency syndrome RAS, respectively.
miR-493 by regulating of c-Jun targets Wnt5a/PD-L1-inducing esophageal cancer cell development
Authors: Bian Wei , Li Yishuai , Zhu Haiyong , Gao Shaolin , Niu Ren , Wang Chuan , Zhang Hao , QinΔ Xuebo , LiΔ Shujun
Published: November 2019

Background miRNA dysregulation has been implicated in cancer development.Methods In the present study, we use cell culture and transfection, the tissue specimens, RNA isolation and RT-PCR, Western blot and so on to explore the role of miR-493 in esophageal cancer.Results Overexpression of miR-493 attenuates esophageal cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, miR-493 downregulation is an unfavorable factor in EC and negatively correlated with Wnt5A. The existence of miR-493 is also an important attribute of metabolism. Based on mechanism analyses, we show that miR-493 inhibits the activity of c-JUN and p-PI3K/p-AKT with enhanced p21 and directly regulates Wnt5A expression and function, while, c-JUN binds the promoter region of miR-493 and suppressed the expression of miR-493, forming a negative feedback loop. Moreover, miR-493 regulates the expression of PD-L1 by c-JUN and then the sensitivity of EC cells to DDP.Conclusions the results elucidate a molecular feedback loop that involves miR-493, Wnt5A, c-JUN and PD-L1 in EC. In future, these mechanistic findings provide a useful therapeutic option for the treatment of EC.
Comparison of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living assessment by in-person or phone interviews: A randomized, crossover trial
Authors: Dauphinot Virginie , Boublay Nawèle , Moutet Claire , Achi Sarah , Bathsavanis Anthony , Krolak-Salmon Pierre
Published: November 2019

Background The functional autonomy assessment is essential to manage patients with a neurodegenerative disease, but is therefore not always possible during consultation. To optimize ambulatory autonomy assessment, the Lawton IADL questionnaire assessment between phone and in-person interviews was compared.Methods A randomized, crossover trial was carried-out in patients in memory clinic. The IADL questionnaire was collected for patients during phone and in-person interviews between nurses and patients’caregivers. The agreement between the two methods was measured with the proportion of participants giving the same response, the Cohen’s kappa, the intraclass correlation (ICC) coefficient and Bland and Altman’s method. The associations between patients’characteristics, events occurring between the two measures and agreement were assessed.Results Among the 292 patients with two IADL measures, the agreement rate between the two modes ranged from 75% to 92% depending the IADL items, and from 84% to 97% depending of the level of autonomy. Kappa score was 0.3 for total score and ranged from 0.5 to 0.8 for the analysis by item or level of IADL. ICC score was 0.91 for total IADL score. Overall, 96.9% of measures lied within the 95% limits of agreement. The occurrence of fall was less likely associated with the probability to lie within the 95% limits of agreement (OR=0.07 [0.02-0.27], p<0.0001).Conclusions The administration of IADL by phone with the caregiver appears as an acceptable way of assessment for patients followed by MC compared to in-person interview. The events which could occur in a time close to the evaluation should be reported.
A Social-Healthcare Pathway to Facilitate Return to Work of Cancer Survivors in Italy: Implementation Process of the UNAMANO project
Authors: Paltrinieri Sara , Ricchi Elena , Mazzini Elisa , Cervi Elena , Fugazzaro Stefania , Costi Stefania
Published: November 2019

Purpose Return to work (RTW) is a major goal to promote cancer survivors’ social participation. A multidisciplinary social-healthcare pathway called UNAMANO was designed to support RTW in this population. Methods UNAMANO was developed by the Azienda USL – IRCCS di Reggio Emilia (RE), in partnership with the local branch of the Italian Medical Association, nonprofit associations, vocational training institutions, social cooperatives, a labour union, and a chartered accounting firm. Results UNAMANO is directed towards employed individuals diagnosed with cancer living in the Province of RE. It has been implemented through four actions: A) healthcare professionals training on work-related occupational rehabilitation; B) dissemination among community and stakeholders; C) recruitment and training of volunteers; D) cancer survivor engagement and provision of a personalized comprehensive intervention. This consists in providing information and occupational therapy to overcome barriers and facilitate RTW or social support through re-training and tailored job search strategies for individuals based on their risk of job loss. Conclusions UNAMANO is the first Italian multidisciplinary social-healthcare pathway supporting RTW of cancer survivors. Addressing a wide area of cancer survivors’ needs, it provides personalized intervention to resolve work-related issues. We propose this patient-centred RTW model to promote an easier transition from hospital to community.Implications for cancer survivors UNAMANO can positively impact on cancer survivors’ health and well-being and can be provided at any stage of disease and treatment. UNAMANO ensures that RTW is coherent with cancer survivors’ health condition and expectations.
Antiviral effect of 1-Calcium phosphonate uracil against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in vitro
Authors: Xu Lei , Xu Zhi wen , Jun Zhao , Yang Xiao yu , Zhang Ruo bo , Jiang Chao yuan , Yu Feng , Yin Xin huan , Li Fei , Huang Jianbo , Sun Xiangang , Ling Zhu
Published: November 2019

Background: Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is an RNA virus. At present, it has been treated by various ways, including vaccination of inactivated vaccine, attenuated live vaccine, subunit vaccine, etc., but the control of PRRSV infection is still inadequate Therefore, it is necessary to study new drugs against PRRSV infection. In this study, the antiviral effect of SR on PRRSV in vitro was studied.Results: PRRSV was significantly inhibited in SR pretreated cells. In addition, the results also showed that SR inhibited the adhesion, entry and synthesis of PRRSV, but did not affect the release of PRRSV.Conclusion: Our results suggest that SR may play an antiviral role in PRRSV infection in vitro, which suggests that SR may be a potential new drug to inhibit PRRSV infection
Comparing the effects of dezocine with lidocaine on prevention of propofol injection pain in adults: a prospective randomized double-blind trial
Authors: Zhu Xuqin , Jia Songlin , Xu Yajun , Sun Zhirong
Published: November 2019

Background Propofol injection pain (PIP) is common and may decrease patient comfort. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of dezocine with lidocaine on prevention of PIP.Methods 235 patients, who scheduled for elective surgery, aged 18–80 years and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I or II, were randomly assigned into five groups (n = 47 each). All patients were induced through the dor­sal hand vein or antecubital vein. The five groups were given the following medication intravenously: saline (Group I), lidocaine 20 mg (Group II), lidocaine 40 mg (Group III), dezocine 2 mg (Group IV) and dezocine 4 mg (Group V). Twenty seconds later all patients received a propofol infusion and were asked to grade pain or discomfort in the hand or forearm according to a four-point scale until anesthesia.Results Three groups showed a significantly lower incidence of total PIP than Group I: Group III (OR [Odds ratio]: 0.39 (0.16, 0.93)); Group IV (OR: 0.21 (0.09, 0.51)) and Group V (OR: 0.12 (0.05, 0.30)). Group IV showed a significantly lower incidence of total PIP than Group II (OR: 0.32 (0.13, 0.77)). Group V showed a significantly lower incidence of total PIP than Group II (OR: 0.15 (0.06, 0.39)) or Group III (OR: 0.30 (0.13, 0.72)).Conclusion Dezocine is a novel agent to alleviate PIP and appears to some extent to be more effective than lidocaine.
In‐Field Whole‐Plant Maize Architecture Characterized by Subcanopy Rovers and Latent Space Phenotyping
Authors: Gage Joseph L. , Richards Elliot , Lepak Nicholas , Kaczmar Nicholas , Soman Chinmay , Chowdhary Girish , Gore Michael A. , Buckler Edward S.
Published: November 2019

Core Ideas

Subcanopy rovers enabled 3D characterization of thousands of hybrid maize plots.

Machine learning produces heritable latent traits that describe plant architecture.

Rover‐based phenotyping is far more efficient than manual phenotyping.

Latent phenotypes from rovers are ready for application to plant biology and breeding.

Collecting useful, interpretable, and biologically relevant phenotypes in a resource‐efficient manner is a bottleneck to plant breeding, genetic mapping, and genomic prediction. Autonomous and affordable subcanopy rovers are an efficient and scalable way to generate sensor‐based datasets of in‐field crop plants. Rovers equipped with lidar can produce three‐dimensional reconstructions of entire hybrid maize (Zea mays L.) fields. In this study, we collected 2103 lidar scans of hybrid maize field plots and extracted phenotypic data from them by latent space phenotyping. We performed latent space phenotyping by two methods, principal component analysis and a convolutional autoencoder, to extract meaningful, quantitative latent space phenotypes (LSPs) describing whole‐plant architecture and biomass distribution. The LSPs had heritabilities of up to 0.44, similar to some manually measured traits, indicating that they can be selected on or genetically mapped. Manually measured traits can be successfully predicted by using LSPs as explanatory variables in partial least squares regression, indicating that the LSPs contain biologically relevant information about plant architecture. These techniques can be used to assess crop architecture at a reduced cost and in an automated fashion for breeding, research, or extension purposes, as well as to create or inform crop growth models.
Neurodegenerative Diseases Associated with Mitochondrial DNA Mutations
Authors: Zhunina Olga A. , Yabbarov Nikita G. , Grechko Andrey V. , Yet Shaw-Fang , Sobenin Igor A. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: November 2019

Mitochondrial dysfunction underlies several human chronic pathologies, including cardiovascular
disorders, cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. Impaired mitochondrial function associated with oxidative
stress can be a result of both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations. Neurological disorders associated
with mtDNA mutations include mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia,
neurogenic weakness, and Leigh syndrome. Moreover, mtDNA mutations were shown to play a role in the
development of Parkinson and Alzheimer’s diseases. In this review, current knowledge on the distribution and
possible roles of mtDNA mutations in the onset and development of various neurodegenerative diseases, with
special focus on Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases has been discussed.
Naphthalene Toxicity in Clinical Practice
Authors: Pannu Ashok Kumar , Singla Vidhi
Published: November 2019

Background:

Naphthalene ingestion and skin or inhalational exposure (accidental or deliberate) is an
under-recognized cause of a severe toxidrome in regions where it is commonly used (e.g., mothballs in households).

Methods:

This review is an update for the clinicians to understand the pharmacology, clinical features, laboratory
evaluation, and treatment for naphthalene toxicity. High-quality literature for the past eight decades was collected
and reviewed in this article. Several landmark articles were reviewed using PubMed, EMBASE Ovid, and the Cochrane
Library, which have essential implications in the current toxicology practice.

Results and Conclusion:

Naphthalene toxicity usually occurs abruptly and leads to acute hemolysis, methemoglobinemia,
renal failure, respiratory depression, and acute brain dysfunction that are difficult to manage. The toxicity is
more marked in patients with G6PD deficiency and associated with high morbidity and mortality. The management
should mainly focus on high-quality supportive care; however, severe methemoglobinemia (>20-30%) requires specific
therapy with intravenous methylene blue. Methylene blue is a highly effective agent but contraindicated in
severe G6PD deficiency.
Treatment Strategies Against Psoriasis: Principle, Perspectives and Practices
Authors: Ramanunny Arya Kadukkattil , Wadhwa Sheetu , Singh Sachin Kumar , Sharma Deep Shikha , Khursheed Rubiya , Awasthi Ankit
Published: November 2019

Background:

Psoriasis is a genetically predisposed autoimmune disease mediated by cytokines released by the activated immune cells. It manifests inflammatory, scaly red or white silvery flaky skin which may be a fluid-filled lesion with soreness and itchiness. The prevalence rate of psoriasis is increasing day by day. Despite having such a high prevalence rate, the treatment of psoriasis is still limited. Hence, there is a need to rethink the various treatment strategies available in the allopathic as well as in the alternative systems of medicine.

Methods:

Various bibliographic databases of previously published peer-reviewed research papers were explored and systematic data culminated in terms of various treatment strategies used for the management of psoriasis. The prime focus is given towards modern as well as alternative systems of medicine such as phototherapy, a combination of phototherapy with pharmacotherapy such as Ayurveda, Yoga and naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy to treat psoriasis.

Results:

A comprehensive review of 161 papers, including both research and review articles, was carried out to make the article readily understandable. The pathogenesis including inflammatory mediators and type of psoriasis is discussed before the treatment strategies to understand the pathophysiology of the disease. The uniqueness, procedure, advantages, and limitations of conventional, advanced, and traditional systems of medicine to treat psoriasis are discussed in detail. Emphasis has also been given towards marine sources such as fish oil, marine sponges, and algae.

Conclusion:

Although there are many modern and alternative treatment strategies available to treat psoriasis, none of them have been proven to provide complete relief to patients. Moreover, they are associated with certain side effects. In order to overcome them, novel drug delivery systems have been utilized and found effective; however, their stability and safety become the major impediments towards their successful positioning. Traditional and alternative treatment strategies have found to be safe and effective but their use is localized to certain areas. In a nutshell, to achieve successful treatment of psoriasis, there is a need to focus on the development of stable and non-toxic novel drug delivery systems or the promotion of traditional systems to treat psoriasis.
Pharmacophore Modeling, Synthesis, Scaffold Hopping and Biological β- Hematin Inhibition Interaction Studies for Anti-malaria Compounds
Authors: Fayyazi Neda , Esmaeili Somayeh , Taheri Salman , Ribeiro Frederico F. , Scotti Marcus T. , Scotti Luciana , Ghasemi Jahan B. , Saghaei Lotfollah , Fassihi Afshin
Published: November 2019

Backgound:

Exploring potent compounds is critical to generating multi-target drug discovery. Hematin crystallization is an important mechanism of malaria.

Methods:

A series of chloroquine analogues were designed using a repositioning approach to develop new anticancer compounds. Protein-ligand interaction fingerprints and ADMET descriptors were used to assess docking performance in virtual screenings to design chloroquine hybrid β-hematin inhibitors. A PLS algorithm was applied to correlate the molecular descriptors to IC50 values. The modeling presented excellent predictive power with correlation coefficients for calibration and cross-validation of r2 = 0.93 and q2 = 0.72. Using the model, a series of 4-aminoquinlin hybrids were synthesized and evaluated for their biological activity as an external test series. These compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic cell lines and β-hematin inhibition.

Results:

The target compounds exhibited high β-hematin inhibition activity and were 3-9 times more active than the positive control. Furthermore, all the compounds exhibited moderate to high cytotoxic activity. The most potent compound in the dataset was docked with hemoglobin and its pharmacophore features were generated. These features were used as input to the Pharmit server for screening of six databases.

Conclusion:

The compound with the best score from ChEMBL was 2016904, previously reported as a VEGFR-2 inhibitor. The 11 compounds selected presented the best Gold scores with drug-like properties and can be used for drug development.
The Cytoprotective and Anti-cancer Potential of Bisbenzylisoquinoline Alkaloids from Nelumbo nucifera
Authors: Manogaran Prasath , Beeraka Narasimha Murthy , Padma Viswanadha Vijaya
Published: November 2019

:

Natural product therapy has been gaining therapeutic importance against various diseases,
including cancer. The failure of chemotherapy due to its associated adverse effects promoted adjunct
therapy with natural products. Phytochemicals exert anti-carcinogenic activities through the regulation
of various cell signaling pathways such as cell survival, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy and metastasis.
The ‘small molecule-chemosensitizing agents’ from plants induce apoptosis in drug-resistant and
host-immune resistant cancer cells in in vitro as well as in vivo models. For example, alkaloids from Nelumbo
nucifera, liensinine, isoliensinine and neferine exert the anticancer activity through enhanced
ROS generation, activation of MAP kinases, followed by induction of autophagy and apoptotic cell
death. Likewise, these alkaloids also exert their cytoprotective action against cerebrovascular
stroke/ischemic stroke, diabetes, and chemotherapy-induced cytotoxicity. Therefore, the present review
elucidates the pharmacological activities of these bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids which include the cytoprotective,
anticancer and chemosensitizing abilities against various diseases such as cardiovascular
diseases, neurological diseases and cancer.
The Cooperative Effect between Polybasic Region (PBR) and Polysialyltransferase Domain (PSTD) within Tumor-Target Polysialyltranseferase ST8Sia II
Authors: Zhou Guo-Ping , Liao Si-Ming , Chen Dong , Huang Ri-Bo
Published: November 2019

:

ST8Sia II (STX) is a highly homologous mammalian polysialyltransferase (polyST), which is a validated tumor-target in the treatment of cancer metastasis reliant on tumor cell polysialylation. PolyST catalyzes the synthesis of α2,8-polysialic acid (polySia) glycans by carrying out the activated CMP-Neu5Ac (Sia) to N- and O-linked oligosaccharide chains on acceptor glycoproteins. In this review article, we summarized the recent studies about intrinsic correlation of two polybasic domains, Polysialyltransferase domain (PSTD) and Polybasic region (PBR) within ST8Sia II molecule, and suggested that the critical amino acid residues within the PSTD and PBR motifs of ST8Sia II for polysialylation of Neural cell adhesion molecules (NCAM) are related to ST8Sia II activity. In addition, the conformational changes of the PSTD domain due to point mutations in the PBR or PSTD domain verified an intramolecular interaction between the PBR and the PSTD. These findings have been incorporated into Zhou’s NCAM polysialylation/cell migration model, which will provide new perspectives on drug research and development related to the tumor-target ST8Sia II.
Synthesis of a New Dioxaspiro[bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-oxabicyclo[6.2.0]deca- 1(10),8-dien-4-one Derivative Using Some Chemical Strategies
Authors: Lauro Figueroa-Valverde , Marcela Rosas-Nexticapa , Maria Lopez-Ramos , Francisco Diaz Cedillo , Virginia Mateu-Armand , Alejandra Garcimarero-Espino E. , Yaritza Borges-Ballote , Yazmin Ortiz-Ake
Published: November 2019

There are several protocols for the preparation of bicyclic derivatives; however, some methods use dangerous and require special conditions. The aim of this study was to synthesize a new Dioxaspiro[ bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-oxabicyclo[6.2.0]-deca-1(10), 8-dien-4-one (compound 8). Compound 8 was prepared using some reactions such as; i) etherification, ii) reduction, iii) amidation, iv) imination and v) 2+2 addition. The chemical structure of 8 and its intermediaries were completely characterized by spectroscopic techniques and elemental analysis. The synthesis showed a yield of 85% for compound 8. In this study, an easy method for the preparation of compound 8 is reported.