bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When it rains, it pours: detecting seasonal patterns in utilization of maternal healthcare in Mozambique using routine data
Authors: Stone Briana , Sambo Júlia , Sawadogo-Lewis Talata , Roberton Timothy
Published: October 2020

Background

Climatic conditions and seasonal trends can affect population health, but typically, we consider the effect of climate on the epidemiology of communicable diseases. However, climate can also have an effect on access to care, particularly in remote rural areas of low- and middle-income countries. In this study, we investigate associations between the rainy season and the utilization of maternal health services in Mozambique.

Methods

We examined patterns in the number of women receiving antenatal care (ANC) and delivering at a health facility for 2012–2019, using data from Mozambique’s Health Management Information Systems. We investigated the association between seasonality (rainfall) and maternal health service utilization (ANC and institutional delivery) at national and provincial level. We fit a negative binomial regression model for institutional delivery and used it to estimate the yearly reduction in institutional deliveries due to the rainy season, with other factors held constant. We used the Lives Saved Tool (LiST) to model increases in mortality due to this estimated decrease in institutional delivery associated with the rainy season.

Results

In our national analysis, the rate of ANC visits was 1% lower during the rainy season, adjusting for year and province (IRR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.96–1.03). The rate of institutional deliveries was 6% lower during the rainy season than the dry season, after adjusting for time and province (IRR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.92–0.96). In provincial analyses, all provinces except for Maputo-Cidade, Maputo-Province, Nampula, and Niassa showed a statistically significantly lower rate of institutional deliveries in the rainy season. None were statistically significantly lower for ANC. We estimate that, due to reductions in institutional delivery attributable only to the rainy season, there were 74 additional maternal deaths and 726 additional deaths of children under the age of 1 month in 2021, that would not have died if the mothers had instead delivered at a facility.

Conclusion

Fewer women deliver at a health facility during the rainy season in Mozambique than during the dry season. Barriers to receiving care during pregnancy and childbirth must be addressed using a multisectoral approach, considering the impact of geographical inequities.
A pilot study to evaluate the serum Alpha-1 acid glycoprotein response in cats suffering from feline chronic gingivostomatitis
Authors: Mestrinho Lisa A. , Rosa Rita , Ramalho Patrícia , Branco Vasco , Iglésias Leonor , Pissarra Hugo , Duarte Ana , Niza Maria
Published: October 2020

Background

Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is a multifactorial immune-mediated disease that can lead to chronic pain, anorexia, and weight loss and has substantial health and welfare effects. Currently, the recommended treatment includes dental extractions to decrease the inflammatory stimulation associated with dental plaque. However, complete remission is observed in less than half of the cases, and the majority need comprehensive medical management. This study aimed to evaluate the serum levels of the acute phase protein alpha-1 acid glycoprotein (AGP) in cats with FCGS and to examine whether dental extractions contribute to a significant decrease in the systemic inflammatory response at two postoperative time points.

Results

AGP serum concentrations in the cats with FCGS were significantly higher at all time points than that in the control groups and were significantly correlated with the global caudal stomatitis score at day 0 but not at day 30 or 60. A significant improvement of some clinical scores, such as perceived comfort and global caudal stomatitis, was observed 60 days after the dental extraction. However, the levels of AGP did not significantly change over time.

Conclusions

Cats with FCGS were more likely to have a systemic inflammatory response compared with age- and dental disease-matched controls. Dental extractions, in most cases, did not contribute to a significant decrease of AGP both at 30 and 60 days. Therefore, this study reinforces the need to pursue comprehensive medical management after dental extractions to attenuate the systemic inflammatory response as a result of this disease.
Ethics, pandemic and environment; looking at the future of low middle income countries
Authors: Tanveer Faouzia , Khalil Ali Talha , Ali Muhammad , Shinwari Zabta Khan
Published: October 2020

COVID-19 which started in Wuhan, China and swiftly expanded geographically worldwide, including to Low to Middle Income Countries (LMICs). This in turn raised numerous ethical concerns in preparedness, knowledge sharing, intellectual property rights, environmental health together with the serious constraints regarding readiness of health care systems in LMICs to respond to this enormous public health crisis. From the restrictions on public freedom and burgeoning socio-economic impacts to the rationing of scarce medical resources, the spread of COVID-19 is an extraordinary ethical dilemma for resource constrained nations with less developed health and research systems. In the current crisis, scientific knowledge and technology has an important role to play in effective response. Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility of all countries with a moral obligation to support each other. This review discusses the ethical concerns regarding the national capacities and response strategies in LMICs to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the deep link between the environment and the increasing risk of pandemics.
A latent class analysis of attitudes concerning the acceptability of intimate partner violence in rural Senegal
Authors: Sandberg John , Fennell Rosalind , Boujija Yacine , Douillot Laetitia , Delaunay Valerie , Bignami Simona , Xie Wubin , Sokhna Cheikh , Rytina Steven
Published: October 2020

Background

Research concerning the causes and consequences of intimate partner violence (IPV), particularly in less developed areas of the world, has become prominent in the last two decades. Although a number of potential causal factors have been investigated the current consensus is that attitudes toward IPV on the individual level, likely representing perceptions of normative behavior, and the normative acceptability of IPV on the aggregate level likely play key roles. Measurement of both is generally approached through either binary indicators of acceptability of any type of IPV or additive composite indexes of multiple indicators. Both strategies imply untested assumptions which potentially have important implications for both research into the causes and consequences of IPV as well as interventions aimed to reduce its prevalence.

Methods

Using survey data from rural Senegal collected in 2014, this analysis estimates latent class measurement models of attitudes concerning the acceptability of IPV. We investigate the dimensional structure of IPV ideation and test the parallel indicator assumption implicit in common measurement strategies, as well as structural and measurement invariance between men and women.

Results

We find that a two-class model of the acceptability of IPV in which the conditional probability of class membership is allowed to vary between the sexes is preferred for both men and women. Though the assumption of structural invariance between men and women is supported, measurement invariance and the assumption of parallel indicators (or equivalence of indicators used) are not.

Conclusions

Measurement strategies conventionally used to operationalize the acceptability of IPV, key to modeling perceptions of norms around IPV, are a poor fit to the data used here. Research concerning the measurement characteristics of IPV acceptability is a precondition for adequate investigation of its causes and consequences, as well as for intervention efforts aimed at reducing or eliminating IPV.
rs2476601 in PTPN22 gene in rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis—a possible interface?
Authors: Schulz Susanne , Zimmer Pauline , Pütz Natalie , Jurianz Elisa , Schaller Hans-Günter , Reichert Stefan
Published: October 2020

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis (PD) are proven to share common risk markers, including genetic factors. In the present study we focused on genetic variants inPTPN22(rs2476601),PADI4 (rs2240340),CTLA4genes (rs3087243) and its impact on RA and PD.

Materials and methods

In the study 111 RA patients and 256 systemically healthy controls were involved. A subdivision of patients and controls was carried out according the severity of periodontitis (no/level 1 PD vs. level 2 PD).

Results

I. Evaluating the genetic impact on the occurrence of RA the T allele of rs2476601 (PTPN22)(bivariate:p < 0.001; multivariate:p = 0.018) and T allele of rs2240340 (PADI4) (bivariate:p = 0.006; multivariate:p = 0.070) were associated with an increased vulnerability to RA.

II. Investigating the genetic influence on level 2 PD the T allele of rs2476601 (PTPN22)was shown to be associated with a higher susceptibility to PD within the RA group (bivariate: p = 0.043; multivariate:p = 0.024).

III. The T allele of rs2476601 (PTPN22)was proven to be a significant marker of RA and level 2 PD comorbidity (bivariate:p < 0.001; multivariate:p = 0.028).

Conclusions

These results support the thesis that genetic variations may represent a possible link between PD and RA. The study increases knowledge about disease-specific and cross-disease genetic pattern.
Glitches in the utilization of telehealth in pediatric rheumatology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Balmuri Nayimisha , Onel Karen B.
Published: October 2020

Telehealth is an extraordinary advancement of modern medicine. It has increased access to care for underserved populations and, in the case of pediatric rheumatology, has expanded the reach of a limited work force. During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, telehealth has radically changed the way healthcare workers have been able to deliver care while maintaining social distance. In addition to the infectious havoc of COVID-19, the pandemic has further altered the psychosocial milleu of our society which directly impacts the wellness and safety of our pediatric rheumatology patients. These psychosocial factors may be difficult to assess and triage solely using telehealth. The objective of this short review is to educate practitioners on the psychosocial concerns exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and to discuss the possible hurdles in utilization of telehealth to care for our vulnerable patient population.
Factors influencing contraceptive use or non-use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: a systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Coombe Jacqueline , Anderson Amy E. , Townsend Natalie , Rae Kym M. , Gilbert Stephanie , Keogh Lyniece , Corby Christine , Loxton Deborah
Published: October 2020

Background

The Australian population has an unmet need for contraception. However, evidence suggests contraceptive patterns of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations are unique. To tailor contraceptive services and meet the contraceptive needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it is important to understand the contributing factors to contraceptive use and non-use.

Methods

This study aimed to systematically review and narratively synthesise the evidence exploring the factors influencing contraceptive use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. A systematic literature search was initially run in September 2016 and was updated again in April and August of 2018. A qualitative narrative synthesis was conducted from 2018 to 2019. Factors influencing contraceptive use or non-use were explored using a Social Ecological Model.

Results

The review identified 17 studies meeting the inclusion criteria published between 1972 and 2018. Most of the included studies were qualitative (n = 11), with the remaining studies being mixed methods (n = 3) or quantitative (n = 3). The majority focused on either a localised geographic area or specific Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community (n = 11). One study specifically focused on factors influencing contraceptive use, albeit among postpartum women. The remaining studies discussed factors influencing contraceptive use within the context of risky behaviour, sexual transmitted infections, or contraceptive practices more generally. Factors unique to individual communities included community attitudes (e.g. importance of not being too young to have a baby), specific cultural norms (e.g. subincising the penis as part of transition to manhood), and access to culturally appropriate health services. Other factors, including contraceptive characteristics (e.g. discomfort of condoms) and reproductive coercion (e.g. partner wants a baby), were similar to those found in the broader population of Australia and internationally. Most studies were lacking in quality, warranting more methodologically sound studies in the future to further assess the factors contributing to contraceptive use or non-use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Conclusions

Identifying community specific facilitators, as well as understanding the more broadly applicable factors contributing to contraceptive use or non-use, is essential if wanting to offer appropriate contraceptive services within an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community.
High-protein and low-calorie diets improved the anti-aging Klotho protein in the rats’ brain: the toxic role of high-fat diet
Authors: Shafie Anahid , Rahimi Ahmad Mustafa , Ahmadi Iraj , Nabavizadeh Fatemeh , Ranjbaran Mina , Ashabi Ghorbangol
Published: October 2020

Background

In the current study, our specific aim was to characterize the Klotho protein and expression levels in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of old rats treated with different diets (high-fat, high-protein, low-calorie, high-protein and low-calorie).

Methods

Rats were treated with high-fat, high-protein, low-calorie, low-calorie high-protein diets for 10 weeks and then behavioral and molecular assessments were evaluated.

Results

Statistical analysis showed the percentage of open arm time was increased in the high-protein, low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein groups compared with old control (old-C) rats. The percentage of open arm entries was increased in the low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein group compared with old-C rats. The body weight and serum triglyceride were decreased in the low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein groups in comparison to control old rats. Low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein treatments statistically enhanced caspase-3 level compared with old-C rats in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Treatment of old rats with high-protein, low-calorie and low-calorie high-protein could increase Klotho-α level compared with control old rats. The levels of Klotho-α, c-fos and brain-derived neurotrophic factors were decreased in the low-calorie high-protein group in Klotho inhibitor's presence compared with the low-calorie high-protein group.

Conclusion

According to our findings, Klotho-α level was reduced in old rats. Low-calorie, high-protein and particularly low-calorie high-protein diets increased this protein level and consequently increased neuronal plasticity and improved memory function.

Graphic abstract
Barriers and facilitators to breastfeeding during the immediate and one month postpartum periods, among Mexican women: a mixed methods approach
Authors: Hernández-Cordero Sonia , Lozada-Tequeanes Ana Lilia , Fernández-Gaxiola Ana Cecilia , Shamah-Levy Teresa , Sachse Matthias , Veliz Paula , Cosío-Barroso Izchel
Published: October 2020

Background

Evidence suggests that inadequate hospital practices, as well as sociocultural and community factors have detrimental effects on timely initiation as the first breastfeed within first hour after birth, and exclusive breastfeeding. The purpose of the study was to examine the factors that influence timely initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding at birth and 1 month postpartum in Mexican women delivering in public and private hospitals.

Methods

Mixed methods were conducted between May and July 2017, including surveys (n = 543) and semi-structured interviews (n = 60) in the immediate (7 h) and intermediate (30 days) postpartum periods. Participants were women aged 15–49 years, in public and private hospitals, of urban and rural municipalities of Chihuahua and Puebla, Mexico.

Results

Timely initiation was reported by 49.4% of mothers, and 34.7% reported that their children received infant formula at the hospital. Only 44.8% of women reported exclusive breastfeeding at 1 month postpartum. Timely initiation of breastfeeding was higher in women with vaginal delivery (62.1 vs 35.5%; p < 0.05) and those who received information during pregnancy (OR 1.07; p = 0.018). Exclusive breastfeeding at 1 month postpartum was related to older maternal age (OR 1.05; p < 0.001) and the fact that the mothers had received more information about breastfeeding during pregnancy (OR 1.13; p = 0.0001). Infant formula use was less associated with timely initiation (OR 0.46; p = 0.001). Participants in qualitative data identified the emotional, physical and economic benefits of breastfeeding, however, the perception about insufficient production of human milk, and the belief that infant formula is recommended, persists.

Conclusions

Modification of hospital practices, such as decreasing the number of cesarean and the use of infant formula, as well as the support of the initiation and continuation of exclusive breastfeeding by health personnel and family members, could help increase breastfeeding practices in Mexican women.
125I seeds irradiation inhibits tumor growth and induces apoptosis by Ki-67, P21, survivin, livin and caspase-9 expression in lung carcinoma xenografts
Authors: Jin Qing , Lin Cunzhi , Zhu Xinhong , Cao Yiwei , Guo Caihong , Wang Lijun
Published: October 2020

Background

Lung cancer is a fatal disease and a serious health problem worldwide. Patients are usually diagnosed at an advanced stage, and the effectiveness of chemotherapy for such patients is very limited. Iodine 125 seed (125I) irradiation can be used as an important adjuvant treatment for lung carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of irradiation by 125I seeds in human lung cancer xenograft model and to determine the underlying mechanisms involved, with a focus on apoptosis.

Methods

40 mice with A549 lung adenocarcinoma xenografts were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group (n = 10), sham seed (0 mCi) implant group (n = 10), 125I seed (0.6 mCi) implant group (n = 10) and 125I seed (0.8 mCi) implant group (n = 10), respectively. The body weight and tumor volume, were recorded every 4 days until the end of the study. Apoptotic cells were checked by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and activities of caspase-3 and caspase-8 enzyme were tested. Expression of P21, survivin, livin, caspase-9 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (Ki-67) was detected with immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The results of TUNEL staining assays showed that 125I seed irradiation suppresses the growth of lung cancer xenografts in nude mice and induced apoptosis. The activity of caspase-3 and caspase-8 was significantly higher. The expression levels Ki67, survivin and livin were substantially downregulated, while P21 and caspase-9 protein expression were significantly increased following 125I seed irradiation. This study revealed that 125I seed irradiation could significantly change apoptosis-related protein in human lung cancer xenografts.

Conclusions

Overall, our study demonstrates that radiation exposure by 125I seeds could be a new treatment option for lung cancer.
Elevated preoperative CEA is associated with subclinical nodal involvement and worse survival in stage I non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nasralla Awrad , Lee Jeremy , Dang Jerry , Turner Simon
Published: October 2020

Background

The standard for clinical staging of lung cancer is the use of CT and PET scans, however, these may underestimate the burden of the disease. The use of serum tumor markers might aid in the detection of subclinical advanced disease. The aim of this study is to review the predictive value of tumor markers in patients with clinical stage I NSCLC.

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed using the Medline, EMBASE, Scopus data bases. Abstracts included based on the following inclusion criteria: 1) adult ≥18 years old, 2) clinical stage I NSCLC, 3) Tumor markers (CEA, SCC, CYFRA 21-1), 4) further imaging or procedure, 5) > 5 patients, 6) articles in English language. The primary outcome of interest was utility of tumour markers for predicting nodal involvement and oncologic outcomes in patients with clinical stage I NSCLC. Secondary outcomes included sub-type of lung cancer, procedure performed, and follow-up duration.

Results

Two hundred seventy articles were screened, 86 studies received full-text assessment for eligibility. Of those, 12 studies were included. Total of 4666 patients were involved. All studies had used CEA, while less than 50% used CYFRA 21-1 or SCC. The most common tumor sub-type was adenocarcinoma, and the most frequently performed procedure was lobectomy. Meta-analysis revealed that higher CEA level is associated with higher rates of lymph node involvement and higher mortality.

Conclusion

There is significant correlation between the CEA level and both nodal involvement and survival. Higher serum CEA is associated with advanced stage, and poor prognosis. Measuring preoperative CEA in patient with early stage NSCLC might help to identify patients with more advanced disease which is not detected by CT scans, and potentially identify candidates for invasive mediastinal lymph node staging, helping to select the most effective therapy for patients with potentially subclinical nodal disease. Further prospective studies are needed to standardize the use of CEA as an adjunct for NSCLC staging.
Risk factors and long-term outcomes of acute kidney injury complication after type A acute aortic dissection surgery in young patients
Authors: Zong Qiuyan , Ge Min , Chen Tao , Chen Cheng , Wang Zhigang , Wang Dongjin
Published: October 2020

Objective

To identify risk factors and long-term outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in young patients who underwent type A acute aortic dissection (TA-AAD) emergency surgeries.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 121 consecutive patients less than 40 years old who received TA-AAD emergency surgeries between January 2014 to December 2018 in Nanjing Drum Tower hospital. The diagnosis of AKI was made based on the KDIGO criteria. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for postoperative AKI. Kaplan–Meier curves were generated to compare long-term outcomes between patients with and without AKI complication after TA-AAD surgeries.

Results

Among all enrolled patients, AKI occurred in 51 patients (42.1%) and renal replacement therapy (RRT) was required in 15 patients (12.4%). The development of postoperative AKI was associated with increased 30-day mortality (P = 0.041), longer ICU stay time (P < 0.001) and hospital stay time (P = 0.006). Multivariable analysis indicated that elevated preoperative serum cystatin C (sCyC) (OR = 6.506, 95% CI: 1.852–22.855, P = 0.003) was the only independent risk factor for developing AKI. The areas under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) of preoperative sCyC was 0.800 (95% CI: 0.719, 0.882). Preoperative sCyC had a sensitivity of 64.7% and a specificity of 83.8% in diagnosing postoperative AKI with a cut-off value of 0.895 mg/L. In addition, our data suggested there was no difference discovered regarding long-term cumulative survival rate between patients with and without AKI during a median 29 months follow-up period.

Conclusions

Postoperative AKI after TA-AAD surgeries was relatively common in young patients and associated with increased short-term mortality. Elevated preoperative sCyC was identified as an independent risk factor for AKI with potential diagnostic merit.
Multiplex enCas12a screens detect functional buffering among paralogs otherwise masked in monogenic Cas9 knockout screens
Authors: Dede Merve , McLaughlin Megan , Kim Eiru , Hart Traver
Published: October 2020

Background

Pooled library CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screening across hundreds of cell lines has identified genes whose disruption leads to fitness defects, a critical step in identifying candidate cancer targets. However, the number of essential genes detected from these monogenic knockout screens is low compared to the number of constitutively expressed genes in a cell.

Results

Through a systematic analysis of screen data in cancer cell lines generated by the Cancer Dependency Map, we observe that half of all constitutively expressed genes are never detected in any CRISPR screen and that these never-essentials are highly enriched for paralogs. We investigated functional buffering among approximately 400 candidate paralog pairs using CRISPR/enCas12a dual-gene knockout screening in three cell lines. We observe 24 synthetic lethal paralog pairs that have escaped detection by monogenic knockout screens at stringent thresholds. Nineteen of 24 (79%) synthetic lethal interactions are present in at least two out of three cell lines and 14 of 24 (58%) are present in all three cell lines tested, including alternate subunits of stable protein complexes as well as functionally redundant enzymes.

Conclusions

Together, these observations strongly suggest that functionally redundant paralogs represent a targetable set of genetic dependencies that are systematically under-represented among cell-essential genes in monogenic CRISPR-based loss of function screens.
Equine-assisted biographical work (EABW) with individuals in the second half of life: study protocol of a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Schmidt Julia , Wartenberg-Demand Andrea , Forstmeier Simon
Published: October 2020

Background

Equine-assisted therapy is more often practiced with children and adolescents than with the elderly, although individuals in the second half of life could also profit from it. This group, from the age of 50, is characterised by increasing emotional, social, health-related and cognitive changes; a critical life event, such as a neurological illness or loss of a family member, can increase the likelihood of subclinical depression. Individuals who exhibit depressive symptoms not necessarily diagnosed with a major depression may suffer from relevant losses of quality of life (e.g. sleep disorders, memory disorders, feelings of guilt, hopelessness). Despite the fact that the various healthcare systems are in general more frequently used, such individuals often do not receive adequate therapy. The processing of one’s biography (reminiscence) is an elementary component of most psychotherapy approaches and has been demonstrated to treat and prevent the development of major depression. In this study, equine-assisted biographical work (EABW), a combination of equine-assisted therapy and biographical work, will be applied with individuals with subclinical depression in the second half of their life.

Methods

This is a multicentre, prospective, randomised, controlled and open phase III study in enrolling participants with subclinical depression. The aim of the study is to evaluate whether a preventive, equine-assisted, age-specific treatment combining elements of equine-assisted intervention with those of biographical work offers better treatment potentials in comparison to a control group with no intervention. Study participants in the intervention group will receive weekly equine-assisted biographical work over a period of 8 weeks. The primary endpoint is the change in Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) in a pre-post comparison. Secondary endpoints include other health-related questionnaires including quality of life, reminiscence functions and anxiety.

Discussion

The present study is the first randomised study examining the efficacy of biographical work with a horse and has the potential to establish an empirically based treatment for individuals in the second half of life and improving the symptoms of subclinical depression.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00017010. Registered on 01 April 2019
MiR-146a rs2910164 G > C polymorphism modulates Notch-1/IL-6 signaling during infection: a possible risk factor for Crohn’s disease
Authors: Keewan Esra’a , Naser Saleh A.
Published: October 2020

Background

MiR-146a, an effector mediator, targets Notch-1 and regulates the innate and adaptive immune systems response. Recently, we reported that Notch-1 signaling plays a key role in macrophage polarization and response during infection. We employed Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP) infection in Crohn’s disease (CD) as a model to demonstrate the role of Notch-1/IL-6 signaling on MCL-1 based apoptosis and intracellular MAP infection and persistence. This study was designed to investigate the impact of polymorphisms in miR146a on the immune response and infection in our MAP-CD model.

Methods

We determined the incidence of miR-146a rs2910164 G > C in 42 blood samples from clinical CD patients and controls. We also measured the effect of rs2910164 on expression of Notch-1 and IL-6, and plasma IL-6 protein levels in our study group. Finally, we analyzed the blood samples for MAP DNA and studied any correlation with miR-146a polymorphism. Samples were analyzed for statistical significance using unpaired tow-tailed t-test, unpaired two-tailed z-score and odds ratio. P < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

MiR-146a rs2910164 GC was detected at a higher incidence in CD (52.6%) compared to healthy controls (21.7%) rs2910164 GC Heterozygous polymorphism upregulated Notch-1 and IL-6, by 0.9 and 1.7-fold, respectively. As expected, MAP infection was detected more in CD samples (63%) compared to healthy controls (9%). Surprisingly, MAP infection was detected at a higher rate in samples with rs2910164 GC (67%) compared to samples with normal genotype (33%).

Conclusions

The data clearly associates miR-146a rs2910164 GC with an overactive immune response and increases the risk to acquire infection. The study is even more relevant now in our efforts to understand susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the development of COVID-19. This study suggests that genetic variations among COVID-19 patients may predict who is at a higher risk of acquiring infection, developing exacerbating symptoms, and possibly death. A high scale study with more clinical samples from different disease groups is planned.
Lineage tracing: technology tool for exploring the development, regeneration, and disease of the digestive system
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zeng Fanhong , Han Xu , Weng Jun , Gao Yi
Published: October 2020

Lineage tracing is the most widely used technique to track the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of specific cells in vivo. The currently available gene-targeting technologies have been developing for decades to study organogenesis, tissue injury repairing, and tumor progression by tracing the fates of individual cells. Recently, lineage tracing has expanded the platforms available for disease model establishment, drug screening, cell plasticity research, and personalized medicine development in a molecular and cellular biology perspective. Lineage tracing provides new views for exploring digestive organ development and regeneration and techniques for digestive disease causes and progression. This review focuses on the lineage tracing technology and its application in digestive diseases.
BKCa channels regulate the immunomodulatory properties of WJ-MSCs by affecting the exosome protein profiles during the inflammatory response
Authors: Song Ahui , Wang Jingjing , Tong Yan , Fang Junyan , Zhang Yi , Zhang Huiping , Ruan Hongqiang , Wang Kai , Liu Yingli
Published: October 2020

Background

Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) from the human umbilical cord have been studied extensively due to their immunomodulatory functions. Large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa channels) channels are involved in many inflammatory responses, but their involvement in the anti-inflammatory activity of WJ-MSCs is unknown. The underlying molecular mechanism, through which BKCa channels mediate the immunomodulation of WJ-MSC, which may include changes in exosomes proteomics, has not yet been clarified.

Methods

Alizarin staining, Oil Red O staining, and flow cytometry were used to identify WJ-MSCs, which were isolated from human umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly. BKCa channels were detected in WJ-MSCs using western blotting, real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR), and electrophysiology, and cytokine expression was examined using real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Exosomes were characterized using transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Proteomics analysis was performed to explore exosomal proteomic profiles.

Results

The cells derived from human umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly were identified as MSCs. BKCa channels were detected in the isolated WJ-MSCs, and the expression of these channels increased after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. BKCa channels blockade in LPS-treated WJ-MSCs induced apoptosis and decreased interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression. Furthermore, THP-1 cells (human monocytic cell line) stimulated with LPS/interferon gamma (IFN-γ) produced more anti-inflammatory cytokines after treatment with exosomes derived from BKCa channel-knockdown WJ-MSCs (si-exo). We also observed altered expression of mitochondrial ATP synthase alpha subunit (ATP5A1), filamin B, and other proteins in si-exo, which might increase the anti-inflammatory activity of macrophages.

Conclusions

Our study described the functional expression of BKCa channels in WJ-MSCs, and BKCa channels regulated the immunomodulatory properties of WJ-MSCs by affecting the exosomal protein profiles during the inflammatory response.
Type 3 immunity: a perspective for the defense of the mammary gland against infections
Authors: Rainard Pascal , Cunha Patricia , Martins Rodrigo P. , Gilbert Florence B. , Germon Pierre , Foucras Gilles
Published: October 2020

Type 3 immunity encompasses innate and adaptive immune responses mediated by cells that produce the signature cytokines IL-17A and IL-17F. This class of effector immunity is particularly adept at controlling infections by pyogenic extracellular bacteria at epithelial barriers. Since mastitis results from infections by bacteria such as streptococci, staphylococci and coliform bacteria that cause neutrophilic inflammation, type 3 immunity can be expected to be mobilized at the mammary gland. In effect, the main defenses of this organ are provided by epithelial cells and neutrophils, which are the main terminal effectors of type 3 immunity. In addition to theoretical grounds, there is observational and experimental evidence that supports a role for type 3 immunity in the mammary gland, such as the production of IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-22 in milk and mammary tissue during infection, although their respective sources remain to be fully identified. Moreover, mouse mastitis models have shown a positive effect of IL-17A on the course of mastitis. A lot remains to be uncovered before we can safely harness type 3 immunity to reinforce mammary gland defenses through innate immune training or vaccination. However, this is a promising way to find new means of improving mammary gland defenses against infection.
Existence of solutions for functional boundary value problems at resonance on the half-line
Authors: Sun Bingzhi , Jiang Weihua
Published: October 2020

By defining the Banach spaces endowed with the appropriate norm, constructing a suitable projection scheme, and using the coincidence degree theory due to Mawhin, we study the existence of solutions for functional boundary value problems at resonance on the half-line with$\operatorname{dim}\operatorname{Ker}L = 1$dimKerL=1. And an example is given to show that our result here is valid.
Global exponential stabilization of nonlinear systems via width time-dependent periodically intermittent smooth control
Authors: Liang Jitai , Xia Wanjun
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the global exponential stability and stabilization problems for a class of nonlinear systems are investigated. Some sufficient conditions to guarantee global exponential stable and estimate the minimum admissible value of the control width are presented in virtue of time-dependent width Lyapunov functions. Furthermore, a periodically intermittent smooth controller with variant control width is introduced and theoretical analysis is provided. The smooth index function of periodically intermittent smooth control inputs is defined and the supremum (or least upper bound) of smooth index function set can be solved. On the basis of the analysis, the designed periodically intermittent smooth controller not only can globally exponentially stabilize the nonlinear systems, but also can control the exponential convergence rate of the nonlinear systems. Finally, numerical simulations are given to verify the obtained theoretical results.
Mechanisms of tRNA-derived fragments and tRNA halves in cancer treatment resistance
Authors: Zhang Yue , Qian Huizhu , He Jing , Gao Wen
Published: October 2020

The tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and tRNA halves (tiRNAs) are newly discovered noncoding RNAs in recent years. They are derived from specific cleavage of mature and pre-tRNAs and expressed in various cancers. They enhance cell proliferation and metastasis or inhibit cancer progression. Many studies have investigated their roles in the diagnosis, progression, metastasis, and prognosis of various cancers, but the mechanisms through which they are involved in resistance to cancer treatment are unclear. This review outlines the classification of tRFs and tiRNAs and their mechanisms in cancer drug resistance, thus providing new ideas for cancer treatment.
A dysfunctional endolysosomal pathway common to two sub-types of demyelinating Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease
Authors: Edgar James R. , Ho Anita K. , Laurá Matilde , Horvath Rita , Reilly Mary M. , Luzio J. Paul , Roberts Rhys C.
Published: October 2020

Autosomal dominant mutations in LITAF are responsible for the rare demyelinating peripheral neuropathy, Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1C (CMT1C). The LITAF protein is expressed in many human cell types and we have investigated the consequences of two different LITAF mutations in primary fibroblasts from CMT1C patients using confocal and electron microscopy. We observed the appearance of vacuolation/enlargement of late endocytic compartments (late endosomes and lysosomes). This vacuolation was also observed after knocking out LITAF from either control human fibroblasts or from the CMT1C patient-derived cells, consistent with it being the result of loss-of-function mutations in the CMT1C fibroblasts. The vacuolation was similar to that previously observed in fibroblasts from CMT4J patients, which have autosomal recessive mutations in FIG4. The FIG4 protein is a component of a phosphoinositide kinase complex that synthesises phosphatidylinositol 3,5-bisphosphate on the limiting membrane of late endosomes. Phosphatidylinositol 3,5-bisphosphate activates the release of lysosomal Ca2+ through the cation channel TRPML1, which is required to maintain the homeostasis of endosomes and lysosomes in mammalian cells. We observed that a small molecule activator of TRPML1, ML-SA1, was able to rescue the vacuolation phenotype of LITAF knockout, FIG4 knockout and CMT1C patient fibroblasts. Our data describe the first cellular phenotype common to two different subtypes of demyelinating CMT and are consistent with LITAF and FIG4 functioning on a common endolysosomal pathway that is required to maintain the homeostasis of late endosomes and lysosomes. Although our experiments were on human fibroblasts, they have implications for our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis and approaches to therapy in two subtypes of demyelinating Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease.
Efficient verification of parallel matrix multiplication in public cloud: the MapReduce case
Authors: Bagheri Ramtin , Amini Morteza , Dolatnezhad Samarin Somayeh
Published: October 2020

With the advent of cloud-based parallel processing techniques, services such as MapReduce have been considered by many businesses and researchers for different applications of big data computation including matrix multiplication, which has drawn much attention in recent years. However, securing the computation result integrity in such systems is an important challenge, since public clouds can be vulnerable against the misbehavior of their owners (especially for economic purposes) and external attackers. In this paper, we propose an efficient approach using Merkle tree structure to verify the computation results of matrix multiplication in MapReduce systems while enduring an acceptable overhead, which makes it suitable in terms of scalability. Using the Merkle tree structure, we record fine-grained computation results in the tree nodes to make strong commitments for workers; they submit a commitment value to the verifier which is then used to challenge their computation results’ integrity using elected input data as verification samples. Evaluation outcomes show significant improvements comparing with the state-of-the-art technique; in case of 300*300 matrices, 73% reduction in generated proof size, 61% reduction in the proof construction time, and 95% reduction in the verification time.
Efficacy of probiotics in the prevention of VAP in critically ill ICU patients: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials
Authors: Batra Priyam , Soni Kapil Dev , Mathur Purva
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is reported as the second most common nosocomial infection among critically ill patients with the incidence ranging from 2 to 16 episodes per 1000 ventilator days. The use of probiotics has been shown to have a promising effect in many RCTs. Our systematic review and meta-analysis were thus planned to determine the effect of probiotic use in critically ill ventilated adult patients on the incidence of VAP, length of hospital stay, length of ICU stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, the incidence of diarrhea, and the incidence of oropharyngeal colonization and in-hospital mortality.

Methodology

Systematic search of various databases (such as Embase, Cochrane, and Pubmed), published journals, clinical trials, and abstracts of the various major conferences were made to obtain the RCTs which compare probiotics with placebo for VAP prevention. The results were expressed as risk ratios or mean differences. Data synthesis was done using statistical software - Review Manager (RevMan) Version 5.4 (The Cochrane Collaboration, 2020).

Results

Nine studies met our inclusion criterion and were included in the meta-analysis. The incidence of VAP (risk ratio: 0.70, CI 0.56, 0.88; P = 0.002; I2 = 37%), duration of mechanical ventilation (mean difference −3.75, CI −6.93, −0.58; P 0.02; I2 = 96%), length of ICU stay (mean difference −4.20, CI −6.73, −1.66; P = 0.001; I2 = 84%) and in-hospital mortality (OR 0.73, CI 0.54, 0.98; P = 0.04; I2 = 0%) in the probiotic group was significantly lower than that in the control group. Probiotic administration was not associated with a statistically significant reduction in length of hospital stay (MD −1.94, CI −7.17, 3.28; P = 0.47; I2 = 88%), incidence of oro-pharyngeal colonization (OR 0.59, CI 0.33, 1.04; P = 0.07; I2 = 69%), and incidence of diarrhea (OR 0.59, CI 0.34, 1.03; P = 0.06; I2 = 38%).

Discussion

Our meta-analysis shows that probiotic administration has a promising role in lowering the incidence of VAP, the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of ICU stay, and in-hospital mortality.
Limited evidence for return to sport testing after ACL reconstruction in children and adolescents under 16 years: a scoping review
Authors: Dietvorst Martijn , Brzoskowski Maarten H. , van der Steen Marieke , Delvaux Eugenie , Janssen Rob P. A. , Van Melick Nicky
Published: October 2020

Specific return to sport criteria for children and adolescents after anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction are unknown. The aim of this scoping review is to provide an overview of current tests regarding return to sport for children and adolescents. This scoping review was performed according to the PRISMA statement. A systematic search was performed on PubMed and EMBASE. The inclusion criteria were diagnostic and prognostic studies evaluating tests regarding return to sport after ACL injury and reconstruction in children/adolescents (age < 18 years). Twenty-six studies were included, of which 22 studies evaluated tests in the age category of 16 to 18 years. All studies evaluated tests after ACL reconstruction, no studies have been conducted in non-operative patients. Strength tests, movement quality and patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) are investigated most frequently. Clearance for return to sport should be based on a test battery including strength tests, movement quality during sport-specific tasks and (paediatric) patient reported outcome measures. There are no recommendations on which specific tests regarding quantity and quality of movement should be used. Future research should aim at at developing and validating a test battery including movement quality and neuromotor control in a sport-specific context for both younger children and adolescents after both operative and non-operative treatment.
Children of the reform and opening-up: China’s new generation and new era of development
Authors: Li Chunling
Published: October 2020

China’s new generation, born during the 1980s and 1990s, is a social cohort that has grown up in the era of reform and opening-up. They are simultaneously influenced by and play a critical role in a series of significant historical events in the aftermath of the reform and opening-up. The life course of this generation is intertwined with significant social changes, such as fast economic growth, the one-child policy, education expansion, the rise of the Internet, marketization, industrialization, urbanization, and globalization. These changes greatly affect their living circumstances and opportunities, shaping the generational characteristics while widening the intergenerational gap between them and the previous generations. At the same time, however, China’s new generation is unable to break the constraints of the social structure. The shared generational identity fails to eliminate the socioeconomic disparities within the generation. In contrast, marketization has strengthened the Chinese class structure through intergenerational transmission. In China’s new era of development, promoting equal opportunities and narrowing socioeconomic inequality among the new generation now proves to be a new challenge.
How to compare market efficiency? The Sharpe ratio based on the ARMA-GARCH forecast
Authors: Liu Lin , Chen Qiguang
Published: October 2020

This paper derives a new method for comparing the weak-form efficiency of markets. The author derives the formula of the Sharpe ratio from the ARMA-GARCH model and finds that the Sharpe ratio just depends on the coefficients of the AR and MA terms and is not affected by the GARCH process. For empirical purposes, the Sharpe ratio can be formulated with a monotonic increasing function of R-squared if the sample size is large enough. One can utilize the Sharpe ratio to compare weak-form efficiency among different markets. The results of stochastic simulation demonstrate the validity of the proposed method. The author also constructs empirical AR-GARCH models and computes the Sharpe ratio for S&P 500 Index and the SSE Composite Index.