bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of tumor microenvironment and Immune infiltration in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: wu zenghong , niu xun , Xiao Xi-Yue , chen xiong
Published: April 2020

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a malignant tumor of the head and neck. Although it one of the most prevalent heterogeneous diseases, the role of tumor-related immune cells in HNSCC is not well understood, particularly in the current immunotherapy. Method: We explored TME, TMB in HNSCC to evaluate 22 subsets of TIICs, using GEO and TCGA database, to deduce the relationship of immune subpopulation, survival of patients, function and expression difference to reveal potential targets and biomarkers for immunotherapy. Results: GSE6631 database containing 22 HNSCC samples and 22 normal samples and TCGA database containing 111 HNSCC and 12 normal tissues were downloaded. M0 macrophages and resting memory CD4 +T cells were differentially expressed between tumor and normal cells, and therefore may plays an important role in regulating progression of cancer (P<0.05). Missense mutation was the most common alteration in the tumors, while SNP was the most common type of DNA polymorphism. The most common single nucleotide variation was C>T. There were on average 78 Variation per HNSCC tumor. Top 10 mutated genes related to TMB were TP53, TTN, FAT1, MUC16, CDKN2A, CSMD3, SYNE1, LRP1B, NOTCH1 and PIK3CA. Conclusion: There is an intricate connection between TIIC, TMB and genomic alterations. Our findings offer the basis for future research on enhanced tumor immunotherapy.
Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms and the risk of the type 1 diabetes: a meta-analysis based on 40 case–control studies
Authors: Zhai Na , Bidares Ramtin , Makoui Masoud Hassanzadeh , Aslani Saeed , Mohammadi Payam , Razi Bahman , Imani Danyal , Yazdchi Mohammad , Mikaeili Haleh
Published: April 2020

Background: The association between the vitamin D receptor ( VDR ) gene polymorphisms and the risk of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) has been evaluated in several studies. However, the findings were inconclusive. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate the effect of VDR gene polymorphisms on the risk of T1DM. Methods: All relevant studies reporting the association between VDR gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to T1DM published up to March 2020 were identified by comprehensive systematic database search in ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed/MEDLINE. Strength of association were assessed by calculating of pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The methodological quality of each study was assessed according to the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Subgroup analysis stratified by ethnicity was also conducted. Results: A total of 40 case–control studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results of overall population rejected any significant association between VDR gene polymorphisms and T1DM risk. However, the pooled results of subgroup analysis revealed significant negative and positive associations between FokI and BsmI polymorphisms and T1DM in African and American populations, respectively. Conclusions: This meta-analysis suggested a significant association between VDR gene polymorphism and T1DM susceptibility in ethnic-specific analysis.
Simulation-based low-dose, high-frequency plus mobile mentoring versus traditional group-based trainings among health workers in Nigeria; a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: UGWA EMMANUEL , Kabue Mark , Otolorin Emmanuel , Yenokyan Gayane , Oniyire Adetiloye , Orji Bright , Okoli Ugo , Enne Joseph , Alobo Gabriel , Olisaekee Gladys , Oluwatobi Adebayo , Oduenyi Chioma , Aledare Adekunle , Onwe Boniface , Ishola Gbenga
Published: April 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to compare health workers knowledge and skills competencies between those trained using the onsite simulation-based, low-dose, high frequency (LDHF) training plus mobile (m) mentoring and the ones trained using the traditional offsite, group-based training (TRAD) approach in Kogi and Ebonyi states, Nigeria, over a 12-month period. Methods: A prospective cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted by enrolling 299 health workers in 60 health facilities in Kogi and Ebonyi states, randomized to either LDHF/m-mentoring (intervention, n=30 facilities) or traditional group-based training (TRAD, n=30 facilities) control arm. These health workers in both arms received basic emergency obstetric and newborn care training with simulated practice using anatomic models and role-plays. The control arm was trained offsite while the intervention arm was trained onsite where they worked. Mentorship was done through telephone calls and reminder text messages. The multiple choice questions and objective structured clinical examinations mean scores were compared; p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Qualitative data were collected and content analysis was done. Results: The mean knowledge scores between the two arms at months 3 and 12 post-training were equally high; no statistically significant differences. Both arms showed improvements in composite scores for assessed BEmONC clinical skills from around 30% at baseline to 75% and above at endline (p <0.05). Overall, the observed improvement and retention of skills was higher in intervention arm compared to the control arm at 12 months post-training, (p<0.05). Some LDHF/m-mentoring approach trainees reported that mentors’ support improved their acquisition and maintenance of knowledge and skills, which may have led to reductions in maternal and newborn deaths in their facilities. Conclusion: The LDHF/m-mentoring intervention is more effective than TRAD approach in improcquisition and retention. Health care managers should have the option to select the LDHF/m-mentoring learning approach, depending on their country’s priorities or context, as it ensures health workers remain in their place of work during training events thus less disruption to service delivery.
Construction and analysis of an artificial consortium based on the fast-growing cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 2973 to produce the platform chemical 3-hydroxypropionic acid from CO2
Authors: Zhang Li , Chen Lei , Diao Jinjin , Song Xinyu , Shi Mengliang , Zhang Weiwen
Published: April 2020

Background Cyanobacterial carbohydrates, such as sucrose, have been considered as potential renewable feedstock to support the production of fuels and chemicals. However, the separation and purification processes of these carbohydrates will increase the production cost of chemicals. Co-culture fermentation has been proposed as an efficient and economical way to utilize these cyanobacterial carbohydrates. However, studies on the application of co-culture systems to achieve green biosynthesis of platform chemicals are still rare. Results In this study, we successfully achieved one-step conversion of sucrose derived from cyanobacteria to fine chemicals by constructing a microbial consortium consisting of the fast-growing cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 2973 and Escherichia coli to sequentially produce sucrose and then the platform chemical 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) from CO 2 under photoautotrophic growth conditions. First, efforts were made to overexpress the sucrose permease-coding gene cscB under the strong promoter P cpc560 in S. elongatus UTEX 2973 for efficient sucrose secretion. Second, the sucrose catabolic pathway and malonyl CoA-dependent 3-HP biosynthetic pathway were introduced into E. coli BL21(DE3) for heterologous biosynthesis of 3-HP from sucrose. By optimizing the cultivation temperature from 37℃ to 30℃, a stable artificial consortium system was constructed with the capability of producing 3-HP at up to 68.29 mg/L directly from CO 2 . In addition, cell growth of S. elongatus UTEX 2973 in the consortium was enhanced, probably due to the quick quenching of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the system by E. coli , which in turn improved the photosynthesis of cyanobacteria. Conclusion The study demonstrated the feasibility of the one-step conversion of sucrose to fine chemicals using an artificial consortium system. The study also confirmed that heterotrophic bacteria could promote the cell growth of cyanobacteria by relieving oxidative stress in this microbial consortium, which further suggests the potential value of this system for future industrial applications.
Psychological, social, and motivational factors in persons who use drugs
Authors: Shahrabadi Sana , Jalali Amir , Jalali Rostam , Gholami Ali
Published: April 2020

Background: Persons who use drug need family and society’s support in the process of treatment and rehabilitation. Therefore, it is imperative to determine the psychological, social, and motivational factors that can help them in the treatment process. The present study was an attempt to determine the relationship between psychological, social, and motivational factors and the demographics of persons who use drugs (PWUD). Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out. Psychological, social, and motivational performance questionnaire for the PWUD was first translated into Farsi and validated after securing permission from the copyright holder of the tool. Participants were 250 PWUDs under methadone therapy who were selected through convenient sampling. Before analyzing the collected data, validity and reliability of the tool were confirmed using confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses. Given the scale of demographical data, descriptive and analytic statistics were used to analyze the relationship between demographical variables and psychological, social, and motivational factors. Results: The results of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses showed that out of 83 statements in the original questionnaire, 55 statements categorized into 11 aspects were usable for Iranian population. The results showed that gender, income, and marital status affect psychological functioning of the PWUD (P<0.05). However, education level, domicile, and type of drug and consumption did not have a significant relationship with social functioning of the participants (p>0.05). There was a significant relationship between age, number of children, and history of using drug and psychological functioning of the participants (P<0.01). The results showed that the demographics did not have a notable effect on the participants’ motivation for treatment; only marital status had a significant relationship with the participants’ treatment readiness (P<0.05). Conclusion: As the results showed, the demographical variables could affect physical, psychological, and social functioning in the participants.
Predictive factors for successful INTELLiVENT-ASV® use: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Katayama Shinshu , Tonai Ken , Shima Jun , Koyama Kansuke , Nunomiya Shin
Published: April 2020

Background: INTELLiVENT-ASV® (I-ASV) is a closed-loop ventilation mode that automatically controls the ventilation settings. Although a number of studies have reported the usefulness of I-ASV, the clinical situations in which it may be useful have not yet been clarified. We aimed to report our initial 3 years of experience using I-ASV, particularly the clinical conditions and the technical and organizational factors associated with its use. Furthermore, we evaluated the usefulness of I-ASV and determined the predictive factors for successful management with I-ASV. Methods: This single-center, retrospective observational study included patients who were ventilated using the Hamilton G5® ventilator (Hamilton Medical AG, Rhäzüns, Switzerland) from January 2016 to December 2018. The patients were categorized into the “I-ASV success” group and “I-ASV failure” group (those receiving mechanical ventilation with I-ASV along with any other mode). Multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with successful I-ASV management.Results : Of the 189 patients, 135 (71.4%) were categorized into the I-ASV success group. In the I-ASV success group, the reasons for ICU admission included post-elective surgery (94.1%), post-emergent surgery (81.5%), and other medical reasons (55.6%). I-ASV failure was associated with a low P/F ratio (278 vs. 167, P = 0.0003) and high Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score (21 vs. 26, P < 0.0001). The main reasons for not using I-ASV included strong inspiratory effort and asynchrony. The APACHE II score was an independent predictive factor for successful management with I-ASV, with an odds ratio of 0.92 (95% confidential interval 0.87–0.96, P = 0.0006). The area under the receiver operating curve for the APACHE II score was 0.722 (cut-off: 24). Conclusions : In this study, we found that 71.4% of the fully mechanically ventilated patients could be managed successfully with I-ASV. The APACHE II score was an independent factor that could help predict the successful management of I-ASV. To improve I-ASV management, it is necessary to focus on patient-ventilator interactions.
Study on follicular fluid metabolomics components at different ages based on lipid metabolism
Authors: zhang xingxing , wang tianqi , song jingyan , deng jifeng , Sun Zhengao
Published: April 2020

Background: Follicular fluid is an important external environment for the growth and development of oocytes. A thorough identification of specific components in follicular fluid can better the existing understand of intracellular signal transduction and reveal potential biomarkers of oocyte health in women undergoing assisted reproductive therapy. To study on follicular fluid metabolomics components at different ages based on lipid metabolism, we have adopted a new method of SWATH to MRM( the sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment-ion spectra to multiple reaction monitor)metabolomics to provide extensive coverage and excellent quantitative data. This was done to investigate the differences in follicular fluid of patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer in different age groups and to further explore the relationship between follicular fluid, age and reproductive function.Method: A combination of Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and high resolution mass spectrometry techniques were used to analyze the follicular fluid of 230 patients enrolled for the IVF cycle. The patients were of different ages grouped into two groups:the younger and older patients.The obtained multidimensional chromatographic data were processed by principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). The charge ratios and mass numbers enabled for the identification of different fragments in the samples. Matching information obtained through database search and the fragment information obtained by fragment ion scan structurally identified substances in the samples. This was used to determine the differential compounds.Results:The quality of oocytes decline with age,and the lipid composition in follicular fluid also changes,The lipid metabolism that changes with age may be related to the quality of oocytes.The main differences were in lipid metabolites. Some were up-regulated : Arachidonate, LysoPC(16:1), LysoPC(20:4) and LysoPC(20:3) while others were down-regulated: LysoPC(18:3) and LysoPC(18:1).Conclusions: Metabolomic analysis of follicular fluid revealed that with the increase in age, several differential metabolites are at play. Among these metabolites, lipid metabolism undergoes significant changes that affect the development of oocytes thus causing reduced fertility in older women. These differential metabolites related to follicular development may provide possible detection and treatment targets for promoting oocyte health, and provide scientific basis for understanding the environment of oocyte development.
Efficacy of revefenacin, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist for nebulized therapy, in patients with markers of more severe COPD: a post hoc subgroup analysis
Authors: Donohue James F. , Kerwin Edward , Barnes Chris N. , Moran Edmund J. , Haumann Brett , Crater Glenn D.
Published: April 2020

Background: Revefenacin, a once-daily, long-acting muscarinic antagonist delivered via standard jet nebulizer, increased trough forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) in patients with moderate to very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in prior phase 3 trials. We evaluated the efficacy of revefenacin in patients with markers of more severe COPD. Methods: A post hoc subgroup analysis of two replicate, randomized, phase 3 trials was conducted over 12 weeks. Endpoints included least squares change from baseline in trough FEV1, St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) responders, and transition dyspnea index (TDI) responders at Day 85. This analysis included patient subgroups at high risk for COPD exacerbations and compared patients who received revefenacin 175 μg and placebo: severe and very severe airflow limitation (percent predicted FEV1 30%–<50% and <30%), 2011 Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) D, reversibility (≥12% and ≥200 mL increase in FEV1) to short-acting bronchodilators, concurrent use of long-acting β agonists and/or inhaled corticosteroids, older age (>65 and >75 years), and comorbidity risk factors. Results: Revefenacin demonstrated significant improvements in FEV1 versus placebo at Day 85 among the intention-to-treat (ITT) population and all subgroups. Additionally, there was a greater number of SGRQ and TDI responders in the ITT population and the majority of subgroups analyzed among patients who received revefenacin versus placebo. For the SGRQ responders, the odds of response (odds ratio >2.0) were significantly greater in the revefenacin arm versus the placebo arm among the severe airflow obstruction, very severe airflow obstruction and 2011 GOLD D subgroups. For the TDI responders, the odds of response (odds ratio >2.0) were significantly greater among the severe airflow obstruction subgroup and patients aged >75 years.Conclusions: Revefenacin showed significantly greater improvements in FEV1 versus placebo in the ITT population and all subgroups. Furthermore, there were a greater number of SGRQ and TDI responders in the ITT population, and in the majority of patient subgroups among patients who received revefenacin versus placebo. Based on the data presented, revefenacin could be a therapeutic option among patients with markers of more severe COPD.Trial registration: Clinical trials registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (Studies 0126 [NCT02459080; 22 May 2015] and 0127 [NCT02512510; 28 July 2015]).
LncRNA H19 Promotes Odontoblastic Differentiation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells by Regulating miR-140-5p and BMP-2/FGF9
Authors: Zhong Jialin , Tu Xinran , Kong Yuanyuan , Guo Liyang , Li Baishun , Zhong Wenchao , Cheng Ying , Jiang Yiguo , Jiang Qianzhou
Published: April 2020

Background: Increasing evidence has revealed that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert critical roles in biological mineralization.As a critical process for dentin formation, odontoblastic differentiation is regulated by complex signaling networks. The present study aimed to investigate the biological role and regulatory mechanisms of lncRNA-H19 (H19) in regulating the odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Methods: We performed lncRNA microarray assay to reveal the expression patterns of lncRNAs involved in odontoblastic differentiation. H19 was identified and verified as a critical factor by qRT-PCR. The gain- and loss-of-function studies were performed to investigate the biological role of H19 in regulating odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs in vitro and in vivo . Odontoblastic differentiation was evaluated through qRT-PCR, Western blot and Alizarin Red S staining. Bioinformatics analysis identified that H19 could directly interact with miR-140-5p, which was further verified by luciferase reporter assay. After overexpression of miR-140-5p in hDPSCs, odontoblastic differentiation was determined. Moreover, the potential target genes of miR-140-5p were investigated and the biological functions of BMP-2 and FGF9 in hDPSCs were verified. Co-transfection experiments were conducted to validate miR-140-5p was involved in H19-mediated odontoblastic differentiation in hDPSCs. Results: The expression of H19 was significantly up-regulated in hDPSCs undergoing odontoblastic differentiation. Overexpression of H19 stimulated odontoblastic differentiation in vitro and in vivo , whereas down-regulation of H19 revealed the opposite effect. H19 binds directly to miR-140-5p and overexpression of miR-140-5p inhibited odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs. H19 acted as a miR-140-5p sponge, resulting in regulated the expression of BMP-2 and FGF9. Overexpression of H19 abrogated the inhibitory effect of miR-140-5p on odontoblastic differentiation. Conclusion: Our data revealed that H19 plays a positive regulatory role in odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs through miR-140-5p/BMP-2/FGF9 axis, suggesting that H19 may be a stimulatory regulator of odontogenesis.
Clinical course and outcome of 107 patients infected with the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, discharged from two hospitals in Wuhan, China.
Authors: Wang Dawei , Yin Yimei , Hu Chang , Liu Xing , Zhang Xingguo , Zhou Shuliang , Jian Mingzhi , Xu Haibo , Prowle John , Hu Bo , Li Yirong , Peng Zhi-Yong
Published: April 2020

Background In December 2019, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak was reported from Wuhan, China. Information on the clinical course and prognosis of COVID-19 was not thoroughly described. We described the clinical courses and prognosis in COVID-19 patients. Methods Retrospective case series of COVID-19 patients from Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University in Wuhan, and Xi-shui Hospital, Hubei Province, China, up to February 10, 2020. Epidemiological, demographic and clinical data were collected. Clinical course of survivors and non-survivors were compared. Risk factors for death were analyzed. Results A total of 107 discharged patients with COVID-19 were enrolled. The clinical course of COVID-19 presented as a tri-phasic pattern. Week 1 after illness onset was characterized by fever, cough, dyspnea, lymphopenia and radiological multilobar pulmonary infiltrates. In severe cases, thrombocytopenia, acute kidney injury, acute myocardial injury or adult respiratory distress syndrome were observed. During week 2, in mild cases, fever, cough and systemic symptoms began to resolve and platelet count rose to normal range, but lymphopenia persisted. In severe cases, leukocytosis, neutrophilia and deteriorating multi-organ dysfunction were dominant. By week 3, mild cases had clinically resolved except for lymphopenia. However, severe cases showed persistent lymphopenia, severe acute respiratory dyspnea syndrome , refractory shock, anuric acute kidney injury, coagulopathy, thrombocytopenia and death. Older age and male sex were independent risk factors for poor outcome of the illness. Conclusions A period of 7–13 days after illness onset is the critical stage in COVID-19 course. Age and male gender were independent risk factors for death of COVID-19.
Prognostic model based on the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index and sarcopenia in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Go Se-Il , Kim Hoon-Gu , Kang Myoung Hee , Park Sungwoo , Lee Gyeong-Won
Published: April 2020

Background: Systemic inflammation and cachexia are associated with adverse clinical outcomes in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) is one of the main parameters used to assess these conditions, but its efficacy in DLBCL is inconclusive.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 228 DLBCL patients who were treated with R-CHOP immunochemotherapy (rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone). The patients were stratified according to GNRI score (> 98, 92 to 98, 82 to < 92, and < 82) as defined in previous studies. Additionally, the extent of sarcopenia was categorized as sarcopenia-both, sarcopenia-L3/PM alone, and non-sarcopenia-both according to skeletal muscle index.Results: Survival curves plotted against a combination of GNRI and sarcopenia scores revealed two clear groups as follows: high cachexia risk (HCR) group (GNRI < 82, sarcopenia-both, or GNRI 82-92 with sarcopenia-L3/PM alone) and low cachexia risk (LCR) group (others). The HCR group had a lower complete response rate (46.5% vs. 86.6%) and higher frequency of treatment-related mortality (19.7% vs. 3.8%) and early treatment discontinuation (43.7% vs. 8.3%) compared with the LCR group. The median progression-free survival (PFS) (not reached vs. 10.3 months, p < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (not reached vs. 12.9 months, p < 0.001) were much shorter in the HCR group than in the LCR group. On multivariable analyses, the HCR group was shown to be an independent negative prognostic factor for PFS and OS after adjusting the National Comprehensive Cancer Network-International Prognostic Index (NCCN-IPI).Conclusions: A combined model of GNRI and sarcopenia may provide prognostic information independently of the NCCN-IPI in DLBCL.
Austerity policy and child health in European countries: a systematic literature review
Authors: Rajmil Luis , Hjern Anders , Spencer Nick , Taylor-Robinson David , Gunnlaugsson Geir , Raat Hein
Published: April 2020

Objectives : To analyse the impact of austerity measures taken by European governments as a response to the 2008 economic and financial crisis on social determinants and child health (SDCH), and child health outcomes (CHO). Methods : A systematic literature review was carried out in Medline (Ovid), Embase, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and Sociological abstracts in the last 5 years from European countries. Studies aimed at analysing the Great Recession, governments’ responses to the crisis, and its impact on SDCH were included. A narrative synthesis of the results was carried out. The risk of bias was assessed using the STROBE and EPICURE tools. Results : Fourteen studies were included, most of them with a low to intermediate risk of bias (average score 72.1%). Government responses to the crisis varied, although there was general agreement that Greece, Spain, Ireland and the United Kingdom applied higher levels of austerity. High austerity periods, compared to pre-austerity periods were associated with increased material deprivation, child poverty rates, and low birth weight. Increasing child poverty subsequent to austerity measures was associated with deterioration of child health. High austerity was also related to poorer access and quality of services provided to disabled children. An annual reduction of 1% on public health expenditure was associated to 0.5% reduction on Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccination coverage in Italy. Conclusions : Countries that applied high level of austerity showed worse trends on SDCH and CHO. European governments must act urgently and reverse these austerity policy measures that are detrimental to family benefits and child protection.
A single-model quality assessment method for poor quality protein structure
Authors: Ouyang Jianquan , Huang Ningqiao , Jiang Yunqi
Published: April 2020

Background: Quality assessment of protein tertiary structure prediction models, in which structures of the best quality are selected from decoys, is a major challenge in protein structure prediction, and is crucial to determine a model’s utility and potential applications. Estimating the quality of a single model predicts the model’s quality based on the single model itself. In general, the Pearson correlation value of the quality assessment method increases in tandem with an increase in the quality of the model pool. However, there is no consensus regarding the best method to select a few good models from the poor quality model pool.Results: We introduce a novel single-model quality assessment method for poor quality models that uses simple linear combinations of six features. We perform weighted search and linear regression on a large dataset of models from the 12th Critical Assessment of Protein Structure Prediction (CASP12) and benchmark the results on CASP13 models. We demonstrate that our method achieves outstanding performance on poor quality models.Conclusions: According to results of poor protein structure assessment based on six features, contact prediction and relying on fewer prediction features can improve selection accuracy.
Prevalence Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Celiac Disease And Their Manifestations Among Muhimbili University Of Health And Allied Sciences Staff And Students: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Gembe Adam Miraj
Published: April 2020

Background: Global prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome is high among medical students and health care professionals with significant morbidity. Similarly, the prevalence of celiac disease in irritable bowel syndrome is higher than the general population. These conditions impair quality of life and contribute to social-economic burden. In Tanzania, little is known about irritable bowel syndrome and celiac disease among medical students and health care professionals. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted to MUHAS and Mloganzila Academic Medical Center (MAMC) staff and students who fulfilled the online shared Rome IV criteria of irritable bowel syndrome from August to November 2018. A structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data, anthropometric measurements and clinical manifestations. Blood samples for full blood picture, liver enzymes and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate were taken. Celiac disease was tested using anti-tissue transglutaminase antibody test. Qualitative and quantitative data were summarized using frequency distribution tables. Chi-square and fishers exact test were used to study comparison between groups. Logistic regression was used to study associations. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 and a P value of ≤0.05 was considered significant.Results: Out of 1,321 participants, 192 (14.5%) had irritable bowel syndrome in which 77 (40.1%) were males and 115 (59.9%) were females. Among the 192 participants with irritable bowel syndrome, 3 (1.6%) were positive for celiac disease, 2 (66.7%) were females and 1 (33.3%) was a male. Of the 3 patients with CD, 2 had elevated ALAT and 1 had anaemia. Age (AOR 2.53, 95% C.I 1.57-4.09), sex (AOR 1.67, 95% C.I 1.16-2.41), marital status (AOR 4.95 C.I 2.07-11.82), alcohol intake (AOR 2.47, 95% C.I 1.16-5.23), year of study (AOR 8.49, 95% C.I 5.71-12.64) and sleep duration (AOR 2.24, 95% C.I 1.23-4.06) were found to be independently associated with IBS. Conclusion: Prevalence of IBS and its associated factors in our study population was similar to findings from studies done elsewhere. Also, our study revealed a low prevalence of celiac disease among IBS participants.
Clinical characteristics of 194 cases of COVID-19 in Huanggang and Taian, China
Authors: Zhang Hong , Shang Wenli , Liu Qinghua , Zhang Xuejing , Zheng Maochuan , Yue Maokui
Published: April 2020

Purpose We aimed to report the clinical characteristics of 194 cases coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) in Huanggang, Hubei and Taian, Shandong. Methods We retrospectively investigated the clinical, laboratory characteristics and CT imaging of confirmed cases of COVID-19 from Jan 22 to Feb 28, 2020 in Huanggang Central Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University. Real time PCR was used to detect the new coronavirus in respiratory samples. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the expressions of ACE2 in tissues. Results Among the 194 patients infected with COVID-19, 108 patients were male, with a median age of 48.3 years. The average preclinical period was 7.44 day. Except for 37 severe or critically ill patients, the rest of the 157 patients exhibited mild or moderate symptoms. 190 (97.94%) patients were confirmed during the three times nucleic acid test. The main clinical symptom of the patients were fever, sore throat and cough, which accounted for 146 cases (75.26%), 98 (50.52%) and 86 cases (44.33%%), respectively. 30 patients (15.46%) showed liver dysfunction. Imaging examination showed that 141 patients (72.68%) showed abnormal, 53 cases (27.32%) had no obvious abnormal density shadow in the parenchyma of both lungs. Up to now, 109 cases were discharged from the hospital, and 9 patients died. The ACE2 expression levels were up-regulated in patients of severe type and critically ill type. Conclusion Clinical symptoms, laboratory tests and CT imaging should be combined for comprehensive analysis to diagnose COVID-19. ACE2 may be the receptor of COVID-19.
Introducing an Efficient Sampling Method for National Surveys with Limited Sample Sizes: Application to a National Study to Determine Quality and Cost of Healthcare.
Authors: Parsaeian Mahboubeh , Mahdavi Mahdi , Saadati Mojdeh , Mehdipour Parinaz , Sheidaei Ali , Khatibzadeh Shahab , Farzadfar Farshad , Shahraz Saeid
Published: April 2020

Background: Due to budget constraints, many national studies are only affordable with small sample sizes. Facing a similar constraint, the national study of “Iran Quality of Care in Medicine Program” (IQCAMP), aims to evaluate the quality and costs of medical care in the country for 8 selected high-cost high-volume diseases by only recruiting 300 participants per disease under study. We proposed and tested a data mining method to efficiently design such national studies with small sample sizes.Methods: We developed a sampling design based on hierarchical clustering method (HCM) and model-based clustering method (MCM). Based on these methods, we used healthcare structure and outcome data to define the optimum clusters of districts and provinces of Iran. An expert group checked the face validity of the defined clusters. We subsequently compared the internal validity of HCM with MCM by within clusters sum of square, average silhouette width, and Dunn index. The stability validity was also examined by statistical indices. We selected the optimum clusters based on the results of these measures. Per cluster, one province was systematically selected for data collection. The features of selected clusters were delineated by the Decision Tree Learning and the most important distinguishing indicators were identified. The efficiency of the selected sampling method was compared with a simple random sampling through simulation.Results: MCM and HCM divided the districts into eight and two clusters, respectively. The measures of internal and stability validity showed that clusters created by MCM were more separated, compact, and stable, thus forming our optimum clusters. The probability of death from stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and in-hospital mortality rate were the most important indicators that distinguished the eight clusters. Based on the simulation results, MCM increased the efficiency of the sampling design up to 70% compared to simple random sampling.Conclusions: By using this sampling method we selected 300 participants per health condition across the country only from eight provinces rather than all 31 provinces. Our sampling method benefits studies with small sample sizes by decreasing the level of sampling variability and the overall cost of studies.
Possible protective effects of trans-resveratrol against 1,4-dioxane induced toxicity in meristematic cells of plant bioassays
Authors: Kurt Deniz , Yalçın Emine , Çavuşoğlu Kültiğin
Published: April 2020

Background In this study, the protective effects of trans-resveratrol against 1,4-dioxane induced toxicity in meristematic cells were investigated. For this purpose, Allium test which is a reliable test was used and the alterations in all experimental groups were examined by using physiological, cytogenetic, biochemical and anatomical parameters.Results As a result of the analysis, it has been determined that 1,4-dioxane causes serious abnormalities in Allium cepa meristematic cells. It was determined that in 1,4-dioxane treated group germination percentage regressed 1.6-times, root length reduced 12.7-times and weight gain decreased 7.7-times compared to control group. It has been observed that trans-resveratrol administration with 1,4-dioxane causes improvement in physiological parameters and reduces the damage rate from 0.4 to 0.16. Mitotic index, micronucleus and chromosomal abnormality frequency were investigated as cytogenetic parameters. It was determined that mitotic index decreased, chromosomal abnormalities and micronucleus frequency increased in 1,4-dioxane treated group. Trans-resveratrol treatment was found to cause a dose dependent improvement in genotoxic effects induced by 1,4-dioxane. Changes in the antioxidant system in all experimental groups were determined by measuring malondialdehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme levels. It was determined that 1,4-dioxane administration caused an increase in malondialdehyde level, decreased glutathion rate and induced antioxidant enzyme activity. Trans-resveratrol application was found to cause improvement in these alterations induced by 1,4-dioxane. It was observed that the 200 mg/mL trans-resveratrol+1,4-dioxane treatment caused a 1.9-fold decrease in malondialdehyde level which is indicator of lipid peroxidation compared to only 1,4-dioxane treated group. The abnormalities caused by 1,4-dioxane application in the meristematic cells are also found in the anatomical structure. In 1,4-dioxane treatment group, anatomical changes such as cell deformation and cortex wall thickening were observed. The frequency of these changes decreased with trans-resveratrol administration.Conclusions As a result, it was determined that 1,4-dioxane caused a versatile toxicity in Allium cepa meristematic cells, while trans-resveratrol was found to have a dose-dependent protective feature against 1,4-dioxane-induced toxicity.
Bioactive Diterpenoids Impact the Composition of the Root-Associated Microbiome in Maize (Zea mays)
Authors: Murphy Katherine M. , Ewards Joseph , Louie Katherine B. , Bowen Benjamin P. , Sundaresan Venkatesan , Northen Trent R. , Zerbe Philipp
Published: April 2020

Background : Plants deploy both primary and species-specific, specialized metabolites to communicate with other organisms and adapt to environmental challenges. This includes interactions with soil-dwelling microbial communities, where plants may exchange sugars for important nutrients and protection against environmental perturbations, directly benefitting plant fitness. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these plant-microbe interactions often remain elusive. Results : In this study, we report that maize ( Zea mays ) specialized diterpenoid metabolites with known antifungal bioactivities also influence rhizosphere bacterial communities. Metabolite profiling showed that dolabralexins, antibiotic diterpenoids that are highly abundant in roots of some maize varieties, can be exuded from the roots. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing determined the bacterial community composition of the maize mutant Zman2 ( anther ear 2 ), which is deficient in dolabralexins and closely related bioactive kauralexin diterpenoids. Under well-watered conditions, the Zman2 rhizosphere microbiome differed significantly from the wild-type sibling with the most significant changes observed for Alphaproteobacteria of the order Sphingomonadales. By contrast, there was no difference in the microbiome composition between the mutant and wild-type was observed under drought stress. Metabolomics analyses support that these differences are attributed to the diterpenoid deficiency of the Zman2 mutant, rather than other metabolome alterations. Conclusions : Together, these findings support physiological functions of maize diterpenoids beyond known chemical defenses, including the assembly of the rhizosphere microbiome.
Isolation and evaluation of the probiotic potential of lactic acid strains from healthy equines for potential use in salmonellosis diarrhea
Authors: Pei Lulu , Hao Yang , Yan Ziyin , Zhang Hui , Lan Yanfang , Li Aoyun , Iqba Mudassar , Shen Yaoqin
Published: April 2020

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the probiotic properties, security and antibacterial ability in vivo of isolated strains from healthy equine. In the present study, two Pediococcus acidilactici (P1 and P2) and two Lactobacillus equi (L1 and L2) were isolated. All isolates died when exposed to pH 2.0 for 3h but survived at pH 3.0 with differential survival. The viable bacteria count was sustained at high levels in a tolerance test with artificial gastrointestinal fluid. The isolates survived and grew at temperatures between 37 and 55 ℃ but died at 65 ℃. Four strains exhibited inhibitory activity against pathogens, including Salmonella typhimurium (CVCC542), Escherichia coli (C83902), Staphylococcus aureus (BNCC186335) and Pasteurella multocida (clinical isolate). These isolates exhibited differential antibiotic susceptibility. In safety trials, all isolates were γ-hemolytic, and the oral toxicity of strains P1 (gavaged with 1×109 CFU/day) and L1 (gavaged with 1×109 CFU/day) were analyzed in vivo. There were no effects on overall health status in mice. There were no significant differences in the incidence of bacteria translocation to blood, liver and spleen. Mice gavaged with Pediococcus acidilactici P1 (1×108 CFU/day) or Lactobacillus equi L1 (1×108 CFU/day) as prevention showed lower rates of diarrhea and mortality after challenged with Salmonella Typhimurium (4×106 CFU signal dose, 0.1 ml by intragastric gavage). The results indicate that the isolated strains could act as potential probiotics, providing a new way to reduce salmonella infection, which merit future application studies.
Preoperative assessment of cognitive function and risk assessment of cognitive impairment in elderly patients with orthopedics: A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Gan Shuyuan , Yu Yang , Wu Jiateng , Tang Xiaodong , Zheng Yueying , Wang Mingcang , Zhu Shengmei
Published: April 2020

Background Preexisting cognitive impairment is emerging as a predictor of poor postoperative outcomes in seniors. Nevertheless, cognitive impairment in a large proportion of geriatric patients has not been well identified and diagnosed.Methods This is a cross-sectional study. Mini-mental state examination scale was used to assess cognitive function of elderly patients aged ≥ 65 years undergoing orthopedic surgery preoperatively. The baseline, living habits and laboratory examination results of the two groups were compared, and multivariate Logistic regression model was used to identify independent predictors of preoperative cognitive impairment.Results A total of 374 elderly patients with orthopedics met the inclusion criteria, and 28.61% with preoperative cognitive impairment. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR=1.089, P<0.001), subjective sleep disorders (OR=1.996, P=0.021), atherosclerosis (OR=2.367, P=0.017), high cholesterol level (OR=1.373, P=0.028) were independent risk factors for preoperative cognitive impairment, while high education level performed as a protective factor (Compared with illiterate group, primary school group: OR=-0.885, P=0.009; middle school or above group: OR=-2.118, P<0.001).Conclusions The prevalence of preoperative cognitive dysfunction in geriatric elective orthopedic surgical patients was high. Our study identified venerable age, low level of education, subjective sleep disorders, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol level as risk factors for preoperative cognitive impairment in these patients. Understanding these risk factors contribute to assist in prevention and directed interventions for the high-risk population.
Establishing seasonal and alert influenza thresholds in Morocco
Authors: Rguig Ahmed , Cherkaoui Imad , McCarron Margaret , Oumzil Hicham , Triki Soumia , Elmbarki Houria , Bimouhen Abderrahman , Falaki Fatima El , Regragui Zakia , Ihazmad Hassan , Nejjari Chakib , Youbi Mohammed
Published: April 2020

Background: Several statistical methods of variable complexity have been developed to establish thresholds for influenza activity to inform public health guidance. We compared the results of two methods and explored how they worked to characterize the 2017-2018 season.Methods: Historical data from the 2005/2006 to 2016/2017 seasons were provided by a network of 412 primary health centers in charge of influenza like illness (ILI) sentinel surveillance. We used the WHO averages and the moving epidemic method (MEM) to evaluate the proportion of ILI visits among all outpatient consultations (ILI%) as a proxy for influenza activity. We also used the MEM method to evaluate three seasons of composite data (ILI% multiplied by percent of ILI with laboratory-confirmed influenza) as recommended by WHO.Results: The WHO method estimated the seasonal ILI% threshold at 0.9%. The annual epidemic period begins on average at week 46 and lasts an average of 18 weeks. The MEM model estimated the epidemic threshold (corresponding to the WHO seasonal threshold) at 1.5% of ILI visits among all consultations. The annual epidemic period began on week 49 and lasted on average 14 weeks. Intensity thresholds were similar using both methods. When using the composite measure, the MEM method showed a clearer estimate of the beginning of the influenza epidemic, which was coincident with a sharp increase in confirmed ILI cases.Conclusions: We found that the threshold methodology presented in the WHO manual is simple to implement and easy to adopt for use by the Moroccan influenza surveillance system. The MEM method is more statistically sophisticated and may allow a better detection of the start of seasonal epidemics. Incorporation of virologic data into the composite parameter as recommended by WHO has the potential to increase the accuracy of seasonal threshold estimation.
Influence of culture conditions on the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) by Arthrospira platensis
Authors: Silva Mariana Barbalho , Azero Edwin G. , Teixeira Cláudia M. L. L. , Andrade Cristina T.
Published: April 2020

Arthrospira platensis is a cyanobacterium that exhibits a large biotechnological interest at food industry because its high protein content, pigments, lipids and carbohydrates. The extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are co-products of secondary metabolism that present thickening or gelling property. A 3-level factorial design was used to study the combined effect of different nitrate concentrations and photon flux density (PFD) to evaluate the biomass and EPS production by Arthrospira platensis. Characterization of the EPS produced the rheological behavior were also evaluated. The best result for biomass production was obtained at condition 6 (2 g.L-1 NaNO3 and 600 µE.m-2s-1) leading a biomass concentration of 1.292 mg.L-1. Condition 1 (0.25 g.L-1NaNO3 and 200 µE.m-2s-1) produce the major EPS content (111 mg.g-1) followed by condition 9 (2 g.L-1NaNO3 and 1000 µE.m-2s-1). Rheological studies performed for the product at 5 and 10g.L-1 concentrations revealed a dilute solution behavior.