bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive analysis of geometrical parameters of crosshatched texture for enhanced tribological performance under biological environment
Authors: Kashyap V , Ramkumar P
Published: April 2020

This study optimizes the texture geometry by investigating the individual effect of texture depth and area density of cross hatched texture to improve the tribological performance of hip implant at normal walking speed. Texture width was selected conforming to Hertzian contact of Ti6Al4V/ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene tribo-pair. Crosshatched textures with different depths and area densities were fabricated on polished Ti6Al4V blocks using laser surface texturing technique. Tribology tests were carried out for different loads under bio-lubricated condition. Result shows significant influence of texture depth and area density for better tribological performance of the tribo-pair. Nearly 50% friction reduction and 15 times reduction in wear obtained for 5 µm depth at 25% area density. Surface morphology of worn-out pins showed abrasion wear mechanism.
Sleep paralysis in Italy: Frequency, hallucinatory experiences, and other features
Authors: Jalal Baland , Romanelli Andrea , Hinton Devon E.
Published: April 2020

Previous research has found supernatural beliefs about sleep paralysis (SP) to be very prevalent in Italy, with over one third of SP sufferers believing that their SP might have been caused by a supernatural creature known locally as the Pandafeche. The current study further examined features of SP in Italy. All participants had experienced SP at least once in their lifetime. Participants were recruited from the general population ( N =  67) in the region of Abruzzo. The Sleep Paralysis Experiences and Phenomenology Questionnaire (SP-EPQ) was orally administered to participants. As hypothesized, we found that Italians from the general population reported high lifetime rates of SP, prolonged duration of immobility during the event, and great fear of the experience (with as many as 42% of SP sufferers fearing that they could die from the experience), all of which were particularly elevated as compared to cultures where there are no such elaborate traditions of SP (e.g., Denmark). In addition, 78% of participants experienced some type of hallucination during their SP. The results we present here suggest that cultural beliefs about SP in Italy (e.g., as being caused by the Pandafeche, as reported elsewhere) potentially can profoundly shape certain aspects of the experience – a type of mind-body interaction.
No alternatives, always more, willful optimism: New editors of the European Journal of Cultural Studies in conversation
Authors: Chow Yiu Fai , Saha Anamik
Published: April 2020

The following is a conversation, conducted over email in late 2019 and early 2020, between Yiu Fai Chow and Anamik Saha, the two incoming editors of European Journal of Cultural Studies.
Centenarian Exomes as a Tool for Evaluating the Clinical Relevance of Germline Tumor Suppressor Mutations
Authors: Balabanski Lubomir , Serbezov Dimitar , Nikolova Dragomira , Antonova Olga , Nesheva Desislava , Hammoudeh Zora , Vazharova Radoslava , Karachanak-Yankova Sena , Staneva Rada , Mihaylova Marta , Damyanova Vera , Hadjidekova Savina , Toncheva Draga
Published: April 2020

Objectives:

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical relevance of mutations in tumor suppressor genes using whole-exome sequencing data from centenarians and young healthy individuals.

Methods:

Two pools, one of centenarians and one of young individuals, were constructed and whole-exome sequencing was performed. We examined the whole-exome sequencing data of Bulgarian individuals for carriership of tumor suppressor gene variants.

Results:

Of all variants annotated in both pools, 5080 (0.06%) are variants in tumor suppressor genes but only 46 show significant difference in allele frequencies between the two studied groups. Four variants (0.004%) are pathogenic/risk factors according to single nucleotide polymorphism database: rs1566734 in PTPRJ, rs861539 in XRCC3, rs203462 in AKAP10, and rs486907 in RNASEL.

Discussion:

Based on their high minor allele frequencies and presence in the centenarian group, we could reclassify them from pathogenic/risk factors to benign. Our study shows that centenarian exomes can be used for re-evaluating the clinically uncertain variants.
Application of capillary index score in predicting three-month functional outcome after endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke in China
Authors: Duan Zhenhui , Huang Xianjun , Gao Jie , Hu Ting , Liu Xiaoyun , Xiao Lulu , Huang Feihong , Sun Rui , Zhu Wusheng , Zhou Zhiming , Liu Xinfeng
Published: April 2020

Background

Preoperative neuroimaging assessment of collateral circulation is important for selecting acute ischemic stroke patients who are appropriate for endovascular treatment. We sought to validate the capillary index score system in an Asian population and compare its ability in predicting clinical outcomes with the American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology grading system.

Methods

We continuously enrolled acute ischemic stroke patients from two neurological centers from March 2014 to March 2017. Multivariate analyses were performed to assess the capillary index score system with 90-day clinical outcome (modified Rankin scale score). The scoring systems were compared for predicting good (modified Rankin scale 0–2) and excellent (modified Rankin scale 0–1) functional outcomes using area under the receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results

We identified 157 patients (median age, 65 years; 96 (61.1%) males), of whom 71 (45.2%) patients with 90-day good functional outcomes were selected. Capillary index score was independently associated with clinical outcome after endovascular treatment (OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.43–0.92; P = 0.016) with its predictive ability for good functional outcome (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.755). For excellent functional outcome, the capillary index score system was not inferior to the American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology grading system (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.748 versus 0.793, P = 0.09).

Conclusions

The capillary index score system is a potentially useful tool for predicting 90-day functional outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients after endovascular treatment.
Shoulder Pain and Disability Index: Italian cross-cultural validation in patients with non-specific shoulder pain
Authors: Brindisino Fabrizio , Indaco Tiziana , Giovannico Giuseppe , Ristori Diego , Maistrello Lorenza , Turolla Andrea
Published: April 2020

Background

Health-related patient reported outcome measures are considered essential to determine the impact of disease on the life of individuals. Aim of this study is to culturally adapt the Italian version of the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). The secondary aim is to evaluate psychometric proprieties in patients with non-specific shoulder pain.

Methods

The current study is an analysis of a sample of 59 adult patients with non-specific shoulder pain. The SPADI was translated and cross-culturally adapted, and then psychometric properties were tested. Participants completed the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index-Italian (SPADI-I), 36-item short form health survey, the Oxford Shoulder Score, the Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scale and a pain intensity visual analogue scale.

Results

SPADI-I included two domains. Internal consistency analysis showed good values for total (α = 0.84) and subscales (α = 0.94 and α = 0.76). For construct validity, there was good correlation between the visual analogue scale, the Oxford Shoulder Score, the DASH and the SPADI-I total score and subscales. Standard error of measurement and minimally detectable change were calculated.

Conclusions

The SPADI-I was culturally adapted into Italian. SPADI-I is centred on pain and disability of the shoulder only and can be considered as a useful tool in daily clinical practice for assessing musculoskeletal non-specific shoulder pain because of its good internal consistency and validity. Further studies should focus on other psychometric proprieties such as test re-test reliability, responsiveness and clinical interpretability to improve the available clinimetrics of the tool.
iPad® Video Prompting to Teach Cooking Tasks to Korean American Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kim Sunyoung , Kang Veronica Y.
Published: April 2020

In response to the growing necessity for considering the cultural and contextual needs of youth with disabilities in experimental studies, this study examines the effectiveness of an intervention package consisting of video prompting with a system of least prompts and reinforcement on Korean American adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Through the replication of procedures used in a study by Mechling et al. (2008), the current study examined the effects of self-directed video prompting with a system of least prompts and verbal praise on completion of three preferred cooking tasks by three Korean American male adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. A single-case multiple probe design replicated across three cooking tasks was used. Results indicated the correct completion of multi-step cooking tasks increased with the intervention package and was maintained seven weeks following intervention across three participants. Discussion and implications for future research and practice are presented.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in Spine Surgery
Authors: Rasouli Jonathan J. , Shao Jianning , Neifert Sean , Gibbs Wende N. , Habboub Ghaith , Steinmetz Michael P. , Benzel Edward , Mroz Thomas E.
Published: April 2020

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Objectives:

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have emerged as disruptive technologies with the potential to drastically affect clinical decision making in spine surgery. AI can enhance the delivery of spine care in several arenas: (1) preoperative patient workup, patient selection, and outcome prediction; (2) quality and reproducibility of spine research; (3) perioperative surgical assistance and data tracking optimization; and (4) intraoperative surgical performance. The purpose of this narrative review is to concisely assemble, analyze, and discuss current trends and applications of AI and ML in conventional and robotic-assisted spine surgery.

Methods:

We conducted a comprehensive PubMed search of peer-reviewed articles that were published between 2006 and 2019 examining AI, ML, and robotics in spine surgery. Key findings were then compiled and summarized in this review.

Results:

The majority of the published AI literature in spine surgery has focused on predictive analytics and supervised image recognition for radiographic diagnosis. Several investigators have studied the use of AI/ML in the perioperative setting in small patient cohorts; pivotal trials are still pending.

Conclusions:

Artificial intelligence has tremendous potential in revolutionizing comprehensive spine care. Evidence-based, predictive analytics can help surgeons improve preoperative patient selection, surgical indications, and individualized postoperative care. Robotic-assisted surgery, while still in early stages of development, has the potential to reduce surgeon fatigue and improve technical precision.
Headache in patients with Tourette syndrome: A systematic literature review
Authors: Bearpark Jack , Mujong Datapwa Pamilerin , Seri Stefano , Cavanna Andrea Eugenio
Published: April 2020

Aim:

To systematically review the available literature on the prevalence and clinical characteristics of headache in patients with Tourette syndrome (TS), a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by the chronic presence of motor and vocal tics.

Design:

We conducted a systematic literature review of original studies using three clinical databases (Medline, EMBASE and PsycInfo), according to the standards outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Outcome measures included both tic severity and tic frequency.

Results:

Our systematic literature review identified six studies on the prevalence and characteristics of headache in patients with TS (data on paediatric patients were available from five studies and data on adult patients from four studies). The proportion of patients with TS who had a diagnosis of headache ranged from 29% to 62%. Migraine was the most commonly investigated headache disorder in this patient population. The findings of the reviewed studies showed that the prevalence of migraine in patients with TS ranges between 13% and 43% and is significantly higher compared to the two control groups ( p < 0.05).

Discussion:

The prevalence of headache in patients with TS could be higher than in the general population, with the most reliable data being available for migraine. Overall, the literature on the prevalence and characteristics of headache in TS is sparse and highly heterogeneous. Further research on the prevalence and clinical correlates of migraine, tension-type headache and other types of headache in patients with TS across the lifespan is needed to inform clinical practice aimed at improving health-related quality of life in patients with tics.
Enhancement of interfacial adhesion and engineering properties of polyvinyl alcohol/polylactic acid laminate films filled with modified microfibrillated cellulose
Authors: Kittikorn Thorsak , Chaiwong Wantani , Stromberg Emma , Torro Rosana M , Ek Monika , Karlsson Sigbritt
Published: April 2020

This work was done to improve the interfacial adhesion and engineering performance of polyvinyl alcohol/polylactic acid laminate film by altering the polyvinyl alcohol phase surface properties via incorporating microfibrillated cellulose modified by propionylation. Incorporating the modified microfibrillated cellulose into polyvinyl alcohol film improved adhesion between film layers during the laminating process. Improved peel strength and tensile properties confirmed that modified microfibrillated cellulose can produce better bonding between polyvinyl alcohol and polylactic acid via mechanical interlocking and cohesive forces at the film interface. Modified microfibrillated cellulose (3 wt%) increased the peel strength by 40% comparing with the neat polyvinyl alcohol/polylactic acid laminate film.The reduction of both moisture absorption and diffusion rate of the modified microfibrillated cellulose–polyvinyl alcohol/polylactic acid to 20 and 23%, respectively, also indicated that the modified microfibrillated cellulose could inhibit moisture permeation across the film. This was because the modified microfibrillated cellulose is hydrophobic. Furthermore, the addition of modified microfibrillated cellulose also increased the decomposition temperature of the laminate film up to 10% as observed at 20% of remaining weight, while the storage modulus substantially increasing to 72% relative to the neat laminate film.The superior interfacial adhesion between the polylactic acid and modified microfibrillated cellulose–polyvinyl alcohol layers, observed by scanning electron microscopy, confirmed the improved compatibility between the polyvinyl alcohol and polylactic acid phases.
Chinese consumer finance: a primer
Authors: Liu Kerry
Published: April 2020

Chinese consumer finance has been booming recently, especially since 2014. However, research on this topic is scant. This study presents an updated analysis, providing original, significant contributions for academics, investors, and policymakers. We explore five perspectives: (1) macroeconomics: policies adopted by the Chinese government to enhance economic growth through promoting personal consumption; (2) financial market: China’s different types of consumer finance institutions and their financing; (3) consumers: improvements in financial inclusion and consumer protections; (4) regulations in the context of supply-side structural reforms; and (5) potential areas for future academic research.
Parents’ and healthcare professionals’ perceptions of the use of live video recording in neonatal units: a focus group study
Authors: Le Bris Aude , Mazille-Orfanos Nadia , Simonot Pauline , Luherne Maude , Flamant Cyril , Gascoin Geraldine , ÓLaighin Gearóid , Harte Richard , Pladys Patrick
Published: April 2020

Background

The emerging use of video in neonatology units raises ethical and practical questions. This study aims to gain a better understanding of the suitability, limitations and constraints concerning the use of live video as a tool in neonatal clinical practice. The perceptions of parents and healthcare professionals in regard to live video were examined.

Methods

Nine focus groups were conducted in four neonatal units involving 20 healthcare professionals and 19 parents. Data were triangulated using transcripts and field notes and analyzed using inductive and semantic thematic analysis.

Results

The seven major themes that emerged from the healthcare professionals focus groups were (i) the impact of video recording on healthcare professionals’ behavior; (ii) the impact on parents; (iii) forensic issues;(iv) guarantee of use; (v) benefits for the newborn; (vi) methodology of use; and (vii) technical considerations & feasibility. The five major themes that emerged from parents focus groups were (i) benefits for the newborn and care enhancement; (ii) impact on parents and potential benefits in case of newborn child/parent separation; (iii) informed consent and guarantee of use;(iv) concern about a possible disruptive impact on healthcare professionals; and (v) data protection.

Conclusion

Both parents and healthcare professionals found video recording useful and acceptable if measures were taken to protect the data and mitigate any negative impacts on healthcare professionals.
Image-and-text health warning labels on alcohol and food: potential effectiveness and acceptability
Authors: Pechey Emily , Clarke Natasha , Mantzari Eleni , Blackwell Anna K. M. , De-Loyde Katie , Morris Richard W. , Marteau Theresa M. , Hollands Gareth J.
Published: April 2020

Background

Health warning labels (HWLs) using images and text to depict the negative health consequences of tobacco consumption are effective and acceptable for changing smoking-related outcomes. There is currently limited evidence concerning their potential use for reducing consumption of alcoholic drinks and energy-dense foods. The aim of this research was to describe the potential effectiveness and acceptability of image-and-text (also known as pictorial or graphic) HWLs applied to: i. alcoholic drinks and ii. energy-dense snack foods.

Methods

Two online studies were conducted using between-subjects designs with general population samples. Participants rated one of 21 image-and-text HWLs on alcoholic drinks (n = 5528), or one of 18 image-and-text HWLs on energy-dense snacks (n = 4618). HWLs comprised a graphic image with explanatory text, depicting, respectively, seven diseases linked to excess alcohol consumption, and six diseases linked to excess energy intake. Diseases included heart disease and various cancers. Outcomes were negative emotional arousal, desire to consume the labelled product, and acceptability of the label. Free-text comments relating to HWLs were content analysed.

Results

For both alcoholic drinks and energy-dense snacks, HWLs depicting bowel cancer generated the highest levels of negative emotional arousal and lowest desire to consume the product, but were the least acceptable. Acceptability was generally low for HWLs applied to alcohol, with 3 of 21 rated as acceptable, and was generally high for snacks, with 13 of 18 rated as acceptable. The majority of free-text comments expressed negative reactions to HWLs on alcohol or energy-dense snacks.

Conclusions

Image-and-text health warning labels depicting bowel cancer showed greatest potential for reducing selection and consumption of alcoholic drinks and energy-dense snacks, although they were the least acceptable. Laboratory and field studies are needed to assess their impact on selection and consumption.
Risk of long-term renal disease in women with a history of preterm delivery: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Barrett Peter M. , McCarthy Fergus P. , Evans Marie , Kublickas Marius , Perry Ivan J. , Stenvinkel Peter , Kublickiene Karolina , Khashan Ali S.
Published: April 2020

Background

Preterm delivery is an independent risk factor for maternal cardiovascular disease. Little is known about the association between preterm delivery and maternal renal function. This study aimed to examine whether women who experience preterm delivery are at increased risk of subsequent chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).

Methods

Using data from the Swedish Medical Birth Register, singleton live births from 1973 to 2012 were identified and linked to data from the Swedish Renal Register and National Patient Register (up to 2013). Gestational age at delivery was the main exposure and treated as a time-dependent variable. Primary outcomes were maternal CKD or ESKD. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used for analysis.

Results

The dataset included 1,943,716 women who had 3,760,429 singleton live births. The median follow-up was 20.6 (interquartile range 9.9–30.0) years. Overall, 162,918 women (8.4%) delivered at least 1 preterm infant (< 37 weeks). Women who had any preterm delivery (< 37 weeks) were at increased risk of CKD (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.39, 95% CI 1.32–1.45) and ESKD (aHR 2.22, 95% CI 1.90–2.58) compared with women who only delivered at term (≥ 37 weeks). Women who delivered an extremely preterm infant (< 28 weeks) were at increased risk of CKD (aHR 1.84, 95% CI 1.52–2.22) and ESKD (aHR 3.61, 95% CI 2.03–6.39). The highest risk of CKD and ESKD was in women who experienced preterm delivery + preeclampsia (vs. non-preeclamptic term deliveries, for CKD, aHR 2.81, 95% CI 2.46–3.20; for ESKD, aHR 6.70, 95% CI 4.70–9.56). However, spontaneous preterm delivery was also associated with increased risk of CKD (aHR 1.32, 95% CI 1.25–1.39) and ESKD (aHR 1.99, 95% CI 1.67–2.38) independent of preeclampsia or small for gestational age (SGA).

Conclusions

Women with history of preterm delivery are at increased risk of CKD and ESKD. The risk is higher among women who had very preterm or extremely preterm deliveries, or whose preterm delivery was medically indicated. Women who experience spontaneous preterm delivery are at increased risk of long-term renal disease independent of preeclampsia or SGA. Preterm delivery may act as a risk marker for adverse maternal renal outcomes.
Mechanisms linking childhood trauma exposure and psychopathology: a transdiagnostic model of risk and resilience
Authors: McLaughlin Katie A. , Colich Natalie L. , Rodman Alexandra M. , Weissman David G.
Published: April 2020

Background

Transdiagnostic processes confer risk for multiple types of psychopathology and explain the co-occurrence of different disorders. For this reason, transdiagnostic processes provide ideal targets for early intervention and treatment. Childhood trauma exposure is associated with elevated risk for virtually all commonly occurring forms of psychopathology. We articulate a transdiagnostic model of the developmental mechanisms that explain the strong links between childhood trauma and psychopathology as well as protective factors that promote resilience against multiple forms of psychopathology.

Main body

We present a model of transdiagnostic mechanisms spanning three broad domains: social information processing, emotional processing, and accelerated biological aging. Changes in social information processing that prioritize threat-related information—such as heightened perceptual sensitivity to threat, misclassification of negative and neutral emotions as anger, and attention biases towards threat-related cues—have been consistently observed in children who have experienced trauma. Patterns of emotional processing common in children exposed to trauma include elevated emotional reactivity to threat-related stimuli, low emotional awareness, and difficulties with emotional learning and emotion regulation. More recently, a pattern of accelerated aging across multiple biological metrics, including pubertal development and cellular aging, has been found in trauma-exposed children. Although these changes in social information processing, emotional responding, and the pace of biological aging reflect developmental adaptations that may promote safety and provide other benefits for children raised in dangerous environments, they have been consistently associated with the emergence of multiple forms of internalizing and externalizing psychopathology and explain the link between childhood trauma exposure and transdiagnostic psychopathology. Children with higher levels of social support, particularly from caregivers, are less likely to develop psychopathology following trauma exposure. Caregiver buffering of threat-related processing may be one mechanism explaining this protective effect.

Conclusion

Childhood trauma exposure is a powerful transdiagnostic risk factor associated with elevated risk for multiple forms of psychopathology across development. Changes in threat-related social and emotional processing and accelerated biological aging serve as transdiagnostic mechanisms linking childhood trauma with psychopathology. These transdiagnostic mechanisms represent critical targets for early interventions aimed at preventing the emergence of psychopathology in children who have experienced trauma.
The sweet spot: fasting glucose, cardiovascular disease, and mortality in older adults with diabetes: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Lee Ji Hyun , Han Kyungdo , Huh Ji Hye
Published: April 2020

Background

Growing evidences shows that fasting glucose target should be different according to their health condition in older adults with diabetes. However, there are limited data regarding the relationship between fasting glucose level and health outcomes in Korean older people with diabetes. We aimed to examine the association of fasting glucose with mortality and cardiovascular events in Korean older adults with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

From the Korean National Health Insurance System, 227,938 subjects (aged ≥ 65 years) with type 2 diabetes but no history of cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction or stroke) who underwent ≥ 2 health examinations from 2009 to 2010 and who were followed up until 2017 were identified. The primary exposure variable was the mean fasting glucose level. We estimated the relationship between the baseline fasting glucose level and incidences of all-cause death and cardiovascular events. Comorbidity load was assessed using the Charlson comorbidity index.

Results

Fasting glucose levels and all-cause mortality risk showed a J-shaped relationship regardless of sex and number of comorbidities. Fasting glucose levels associated with the lowest mortality and cardiovascular events were 110–124 and 95–124 mg/dL, respectively. Stratified analysis by comorbidity load using the Charlson comorbidity index revealed higher optimal fasting glucose levels for the lowest cardiovascular events in subjects with Charlson comorbidity index ≥ 3 than in those with Charlson comorbidity index ≤ 2 (119 vs. 112 mg/dL, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

J-shaped relationship existed between fasting glucose and all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events in Korean older adults with diabetes. We identified that fasting glucose levels associated with the lowest mortality and cardiovascular events were 110–124 and 95–124 mg/dL respectively. Increased risk of cardiovascular events with low fasting glucose level (< 95 mg/dL) was noted, especially in patients with high comorbidity. These findings suggested that less stringent targets of fasting glucose may be beneficial especially in older adults with multiple comorbidities.
CLEC3B as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in lung cancer and association with the immune microenvironment
Authors: Sun Jiaxing , Xie Tian , Jamal Muhammad , Tu Zhenbo , Li Xinran , Wu Yingjie , Li Jingyuan , Zhang Qiuping , Huang Xiaoxing
Published: April 2020

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. Discovering effective biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis is important to reduce the mortality rate and ensure efficient therapy for lung cancer patients. C-type lectin domain family 3 member B (CLEC3B) has been reported in various cancers, but its correlation with lung cancer remains elusive.

Methods

The GEO, TCGA and Oncomine databases were analyzed to examine the expression of CLEC3B in lung cancer. The CLEC3B mRNA levels in 15 patient tissue samples were detected by real-time PCR and the CLEC3B protein levels in 34 patient tissue samples were detected by immunohistochemistry. A Chi-square test was performed to analyze the correlation of CLEC3B expression and clinicopathological factors. The diagnostic value of CLEC3B was revealed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models and Kaplan–Meier plots were used to evaluate the prognostic value of CLEC3B in lung cancer. The TIMER database was used to evaluate the correlation of CLEC3B and immune infiltration. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed tumor‐associated biological processes related to CLEC3B.

Results

CLEC3B is significantly downregulated in lung cancer patients compared with nontumor controls according to database analysis and patient tissue sample detection (p < 0.001). Specifically, CLEC3B is significantly downregulated in stage IA lung cancer patients (p < 0.001) and has a high diagnostic accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve > 0.9). Moreover, low expression of CLEC3B is related to poor progression-free survival (HR = 0.60, 95% CI 0.49–0.74, p = 8.3e−07) and overall survival (HR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.58–0.75, p = 2.1e−10), indicating it as a risk factor for lung cancer. Multivariate analysis value showed that low expression of CLEC3B may be an independent risk factor for disease‐free survival in lung cancer patients (HR = 0.655, 95% CI 0.430–0.996, Cox p = 0.048). In addition, we also investigated the potential role of CLEC3B in tumor-immune interactions and found that CLEC3B might be associated with the immune infiltration and immune activation of lung cancer, especially in squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that CLEC3B expression is downregulated in lung cancer and reveal the diagnostic and prognostic potential of CLEC3B in lung cancer and its potential as an immune-related therapeutic target in lung cancer.
A genetic variant in the promoter of lncRNA MALAT1 is related to susceptibility of ischemic stroke
Authors: Wang Yan , Gu Xi-Xi , Huang Hua-Tuo , Liu Chun-Hong , Wei Ye-Sheng
Published: April 2020

Background

Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript-1 (MALAT1) was aberrantly expressed in diverse diseases. Particularly in ischemic stroke (IS), the abnormal expression of MALAT1 played important roles including promotion of angiogenesis, inhibition of apoptosis and inflammation and regulation of autophagy. However, the effects of genetic variation (single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) of MALAT1 on IS have rarely been explored. This study aimed to investigate whether SNPs in promoter of MALAT1 were associated with the susceptibility to IS.

Methods

A total of 316 IS patients and 320 age-, gender-, and ethnicity-matched controls were enrolled in this study. Four polymorphisms in the promoter of MALAT1 (i.e., rs600231, rs1194338, rs4102217, and rs591291) were genotyped by using a custom-by-design 48-Plex SNPscan kit.

Results

The rs1194338 C > A variant in the promoter of MALAT1 was associated with the risk of IS (AC vs. CC: adjusted OR = 0.623, 95% CI, 0.417–0.932, P = 0.021; AA vs. CC: adjusted OR = 0.474, 95% CI, 0.226–0.991, P = 0.047; Dominant model: adjusted OR = 0.596, 95% CI, 0.406–0.874, P = 0.008; A vs. C adjusted OR = 0.658, 95% CI, 0.487–0.890, P = 0.007). The haplotype analysis showed that rs600231-rs1194338-rs4102217-rs591291 (A-C-G-C) had a 1.3-fold increased risk of IS (95% CI, 1.029–1.644, P = 0.027). Logistic regression analysis identified some independent impact factors for IS including rs1194338 AC/AA, TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, Apo-A1, Apo-B and NEFA (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These results suggest that the rs1194338 AC/AA genotypes may be a protective factor for IS.
Metastasis to para-aortic lymph nodes cephalad to the renal veins in patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: Komiyama Shinichi , Nagashima Masaru , Taniguchi Tomoko , Rikitake Takayuki , Morita Mineto
Published: April 2020

Background

In patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, whether metastasis to para-aortic lymph nodes located cephalad to the renal veins (supra-renal PAN) should be classified as regional lymph node metastasis or distant metastasis remains controversial. This study was a preliminary retrospective evaluation of the pattern of supra-renal PAN metastasis in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer.

Methods

The subjects were 25 patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, primary peritoneal cancer, or fallopian tube cancer who underwent systematic dissection of the para-aortic nodes, including the supra-renal PAN, and pelvic lymph nodes (PLN). Patient factors, perioperative factors, the number of dissected lymph nodes, and pathological lymph node metastasis were investigated.

Results

Supra-renal PAN metastasis was found in 4/25 patients (16.0%). None of the 14 patients with pT1 or pT2 disease had supra-renal PAN metastasis, while 4/11 patients (36.4%) with pT3 or ypT3 disease had such metastases. None of the patients had isolated supra-renal PAN metastasis, while patients with supra-renal PAN metastasis also had multiple metastases to the infra-renal PAN and PLN.

Conclusions

In patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, supra-renal PAN metastases might be considered to be distant rather than regional metastases. Further studies are needed to better define the clinical significance of supra-renal PAN metastasis.
Real-world use of ACEI/ARB in diabetic hypertensive patients before the initial diagnosis of obstructive coronary artery disease: patient characteristics and long-term follow-up outcome
Authors: Zhang Yue , Ding Xiaosong , Hua Bing , Liu Qingbo , Chen Hui , Zhao Xue-Qiao , Li Weiping , Li Hongwei
Published: April 2020

Background

Current guidelines recommend angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACEI)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) as a first-line therapy in diabetic hypertensive patients and for secondary prevention in patients with obstructive coronary artery disease (OCAD). However, the effects of using ACEI/ARB before the initial diagnosis of OCAD on major adverse cardiac and cerebral event (MACCE) in diabetic hypertensive patients remain unclear. This study investigated whether using ACEI/ARB before the initial diagnosis of OCAD could be associated with improved clinical outcomes in diabetic hypertensive patients.

Methods

A total of 2501 patients with hypertension and diabetes, who were first diagnosed with OCAD by coronary angiography, were included in the analysis. Of the 2501 patients, 1300 did not used ACEI/ARB before the initial diagnosis of OCAD [the ACEI/ARB(-) group]; 1201 did [the ACEI/ARB(+) group]. Propensity score matching at 1:1 was performed to select 1050 patients from each group. Incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), infarct size in patients with AMI, heart function, and subsequent MACCE during a median of 25.4-month follow-up were determined and compared between the 2 groups.

Results

Compared with the ACEI/ARB(-) group, the ACEI/ARB(+) group had significantly lower incidence of AMI (22.5% vs. 28.4%, p < 0.05), smaller infarct size in patients with AMI (pTNI: 5.7 vs. 6.8 ng/ml, p < 0.05; pCKMB: 21.7 vs. 28.7 ng/ml, p < 0.05), better heart function (LVEF: 60.0 vs. 58.5%, p < 0.05), and lower incidences of non-fatal stroke (2.4% vs. 4.6%, p < 0.05) and composite MACCE (23.1% vs. 29.7%, p < 0.05). No prior ACEI/ARB therapy was significantly and independently associated with non-fatal stroke and composite MACCE.

Conclusions

In diabetic hypertensive patients, treatment with ACEI/ARB before the initial diagnosis with OCAD was associated with decreased incidence of AMI, smaller infarct size, improved heart function, and lower incidences of non-fatal stroke and composite MACCE.

Trial registration Retrospectively registered
Emerging infectious diseases and outbreaks: implications for women’s reproductive health and rights in resource-poor settings
Authors: Chattu Vijay Kumar , Yaya Sanni
Published: April 2020

This century is witnessing dramatic changes in the health needs of the world’s populations. The double burden of infectious and chronic diseases constitutes major causes of morbidity and mortality. Over the last two decades, there has been a rise in infectious diseases, including the severe acute respiratory syndrome virus (SARS), the H1N1 pandemic influenza, the Ebolavirus and the Covid-19 virus. These diseases have rapidly spread across the world and have reminded us of the unprecedented connectivity that defines our modern civilization. Though some countries have made substantial progress toward improving global surveillance for emerging infectious diseases (EIDs), the vast majority of Low-and Middle-income Countries (LMICs) with fragile health systems and various system-related bottlenecks remain vulnerable to outbreaks and, as such, experience dramatic social and economic consequences when they are reported. Lessons learned from past outbreaks suggest that gender inequalities are common across a range of health issues relating to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), with women being particularly disadvantaged, partially due to the burden placed on them. Though these countries are striving to improve their health systems and be more inclusive to this vulnerable group, the national/ global outbreaks have burdened the overall system and thus paralyzed normal services dedicated to the delivery of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services. In this paper, we discuss the global commitments to SRH, the impact of the EIDs on the LMICs, the failure in the delivery of SRH services, and the strategies for successful implementation of recovery plans that must address the specific and differentiated needs of women and girls in resource-poor settings.
Tardive dystonia improved with discontinuation of trazodone in an elderly schizophrenia patient: a case report
Authors: Kadota Yoshinori , Hori Hikaru , Takayama Michiko , Okabe Chikako , Ohara Naotoshi
Published: April 2020

Background

Tardive dystonia associated with antidepressant use is rare and often under-recognized. We had an experience with trazodone, which is used for delirium and insomnia prescribed in general hospital, inducing tardive dystonia.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old Japanese woman had been treated for schizophrenia. She was moved to general hospital because of consciousness disturbance. She was prescribed trazodone (25 mg/day) for delirium and insomnia. After she was discharged, she returned to the psychiatric hospital with tardive dystonia. Her dystonia symptoms improved with 3 days of discontinuing trazodone.

Conclusion

In the present case, long-term use of trazodone induced tardive dystonia. Discontinuing trazodone rapidly improved tardive dystonia.
Primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the tongue base: the clinicopathology of seven cases and evaluation of HPV and EBV status
Authors: Ren Xinyu , Cheng Yin , Wu Shafei , Zeng Xuan , Shi Xiaohua , Ling Qing , Li Zongzhu , Liang Zhiyong , Wang Beverly
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) primarily derived from the base of the tongue, is rare. Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are important aetiological risk factors for tumours of the head and neck. This study describes the clinicopathological features of NHL in the tongue base and the status of HPV and EBV in these cases.

Methods

Seven cases were identified from the Pathological Registry Database at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). The study utilized immunochemistry, in situ hybridization (ISH), and gene rearrangement to confirm the disease and and performed a clinical follow up for each case.

Results

All 7 lymphomas were localized at the base of the tongue. Six of the cases exhibited tongue base masses with smooth surface membranes. One case presented as multiple deep ulcers. The most common histologic subtype was diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), which occurred in five cases. The other two cases were mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and peripheral T cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL, NOS). One of the DLBCL cases was positive for HPV DNA and diffusely expressed P16 protein. During the follow up period, the MCL patient and an elderly DLBCL patient died. The remaining five patients were alive through the end of follow up.

Conclusions

Most lymphomas of the tongue base manifest as an endogenous mass without membranous change. The most common subtype of NHLs of the tongue base is DLBCL, and the occurrence at this site may have a good prognosis. With proper therapy, even late stage tongue base lymphomas can be suppressed and remain in remission.
Role of human papillomavirus infection in the etiology of vulvar cancer in Italian women
Authors: Preti Mario , Rotondo John Charles , Holzinger Dana , Micheletti Leonardo , Gallio Niccolò , McKay-Chopin Sandrine , Carreira Christine , Privitera Sebastiana Silvana , Watanabe Reiko , Ridder Ruediger , Pawlita Michael , Benedetto Chiara , Tommasino Massimo , Gheit Tarik
Published: April 2020

Background

Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is a rare malignancy of the female genital tract. We aimed to determine the mucosal high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV)-attributable fraction of VSCCs from Italian women using multiple markers of viral infections.

Methods

VSCCs and 8 metastatic lymph node samples from 107 Italian women were analyzed by a highly type-specific multiplex genotyping assay for the presence of DNA from 119 different HPVs. Tissues were further analyzed for HPV RNA and for upregulation of the cellular protein p16INK4a.

Results

The rate of mucosal HPV-related tumors defined by viral DNA and RNA positivity was low (7.8%). HPV16 was the most prevalent, followed by 53, 56, and 58. Only five (4.9%) p16INK4a-positive tumors were also positive for both viral DNA and RNA. One (14.3%) metastatic lymph node sample was positive for all three markers. DNA of cutaneous HPVs was detected in only two VSCCs, i.e. genus beta types 5 and 110.

Conclusion

A small proportion of Italian VSCCs is putatively HPV-related, i.e. positive for both viral DNA and RNA of the same type, thus reinforcing the importance of HPV vaccination. Moreover, this study suggests that a direct role of HPV from genus beta and gamma in vulvar carcinogenesis is unlikely.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Roles of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathways in neurodegenerative diseases and tumours
Authors: Xu Fei , Na Lixin , Li Yanfei , Chen Linjun
Published: April 2020

The PI3 K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway plays an important role in the regulation of signal transduction and biological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, metabolism and angiogenesis. Compared with those of other signalling pathways, the components of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway are complicated. The regulatory mechanisms and biological functions of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway are important in many human diseases, including ischaemic brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, and tumours. PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway inhibitors include single-component and dual inhibitors. Numerous PI3K inhibitors have exhibited good results in preclinical studies, and some have been clinically tested in haematologic malignancies and solid tumours. In this review, we briefly summarize the results of research on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and discuss the structural composition, activation, communication processes, regulatory mechanisms and biological functions of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and tumours.
Approximate Benson efficient solutions for set-valued equilibrium problems
Authors: Hu Shasha , Xu Yihong , Niu Zhichao
Published: April 2020

In locally convex Hausdorff topological vector spaces, the approximate Benson efficient solution is proposed for set-valued equilibrium problems and its relationship to the Benson efficient solution is discussed. Under the assumption of generalized convexity, by using a separation theorem for convex sets, Kuhn–Tucker-type and Lagrange-type optimality conditions for set-valued equilibrium problems are established, respectively.
Response solution to complex Ginzburg–Landau equation with quasi-periodic forcing of Liouvillean frequency
Authors: Wang Shimin , Liu Jie
Published: April 2020

In this paper, the existence of a response solution with the Liouvillean frequency vector to the quasi-periodically forced complex Ginzburg–Landau equation, whose linearized system is elliptic–hyperbolic, is obtained. The proof is based on constructing a modified KAM theorem for an infinite-dimensional dissipative system with Liouvillean forcing frequency.
Influence of time delay on bifurcation of a synthetic drug transmission model with psychological addicts
Authors: Zhang Zizhen , Yang Fangfang , Xia Wanjun
Published: April 2020

A synthetic drug transmission model with psychological addicts and time delay is proposed in this paper. By analyzing the corresponding characteristic equation and choosing the time delay as the bifurcation parameter, a set of sufficient criteria guaranteeing local stability of the synthetic drug addiction equilibrium and the appearance of a Hopf bifurcation of the model is established. Further, the direction and stability of the Hopf bifurcation are investigated with the aid of normal form theory and center manifold theory. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to support the analytical results.