bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Molecular Immunity Mechanism of Porcine Rotavirus VP6 Proteins expressed in Lactobacillus plantarum NC8
Authors: SHONYELA SERIA , Yang Wentao , Yang Guilian , Wang Chunfeng
Published: January 2020

Rotaviruses are the main cause of animal and infant diarrhea and are widely distributed worldwide. In the pig industry, porcine rotavirus infection is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity; therefore, the optimization and well-organized distribution of vaccines for infection prevention is needed. The molecularimmunological mechanisms of recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum NC8-pSIP409-pgsA-VP6-Dcpep, NC8-pSIP409-pgsA-VP7-Dcpep and NC8-pSIP409-pgsA-VP6-VP7-Dcpep strains against porcine rotavirus were explored. At 12 h after the co-incubation of L. plantarum expressing rotavirus proteins with BMDCs, the effects of the strains on the differentiation of BMDCs were detected by FCM. The results showed that the recombinant strains could significantly promote the activation of BMDCs. The expression of cytokines in the above cells supernatants were detected by ELISA and the results suggested that the recombinant strains could significantly increase the production of IL-12P70 and inhibit the secretion of IL-6. CD4 + and CD8 + T cells from the spleen of non-immunized mice were sorted and cultured with the above activated BMDCs for 48h, and the expressions of IFN-γ + and perforin in the cells and the contents of IFN-γ in the supernatants were determined by FCM and ELISA, respectively. The results showed that the recombinant strains increased the expression of IFN-γ + (4.33%) ofCD4 + T cells and IFN-γ + (7.68%) and perforin (17.50%) of CD8 + T cells, as well as the secretion of cytokines IFN-γ. The expression of IFN-γ + (P<0.001) and perforin (P<0.001) from VP6/VP7-specific CD8 + T cells of spleen and MLN were detected in vivo and the recombinant groups were significantly increased. Moreover, the recombinant groups significantly promoted the proliferation of T cells in the spleen (P<0.001). Our results confirmed that recombinant recombinant L. plantarum strains can effectively induce cellular immune response.
Prescribing antidepressants and anxiolytic medications to pregnant women: The perception of risk of foetal teratogenicity amongst Australian specialists and trainees
Authors: Williams Summer , Bruxner George , Ballard Emma , Kothari Alka
Published: January 2020

Background: The decision of whether to prescribe antidepressants (AD) and anxiolytics (AX) to pregnant women is complex, with serious potential ramifications. Clinicians’ perception of the risk of teratogenicity significantly influences their prescribing decisions and in turn impacts maternal decision making. Our study sought to discern differences in perceived risk between Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (O&Gs) and General Practitioners (GPs) when prescribing these medications in pregnancy. Furthermore, we investigated factors impacting perception, clinicians’ willingness to prescribe and their approach to provision of patient information. Methods: This study was conducted via a nation-wide online SurveyMonkey extended to Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) database-derived affiliates: GP diplomates, fellows and trainees (5409 survey invitations: 545 respondents). Descriptive statistics were used to present responses for clinicians overall and separately for GPs and O&Gs. Results: GPs reported higher rates of being aware of up-to-date medication prescription recommendations (57.6%) compared with O&Gs (44.2%). GPs also reported higher rates of training adequacy in psychotropic prescription (56.1% versus 29.0%). There was evidence to suggest GPs level of confidence in knowledge base, initiation and prescription of antidepressants and anxiolytics was higher than those of O&Gs. The mean perception of patient non-compliance was similar between clinician groups (approximately 35%), but GPs perceived the extent of patient anxiety as higher (mean 73.7% (SD 21.3) compared to O&Gs (mean 63.1% (SD 24.1)). Both groups showed a strong preference for improved training rather than patient-focused technology (above 70% for both groups). Conclusion: Further development of clinician training in perinatal psychotropic prescription is warranted. Keywords : psychotropics, teratogenicity, pregnant, prescribing, foetal, perception
Physical Activity and Sleep Differences Between Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Non-Arthritic Samples in China: Comparing Objective Measures versus Self-Reports
Authors: Xu Ting , Jia Xiaojun , Chen Shuanghong , Xie Yingying , Tong K.K. , Iezzi Tony , Jackson Todd
Published: January 2020

Background and ObjectivesObjectively-measured differences in physical activity (PA) and sleep have been documented in osteoarthritis (OA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) samples compared to non-arthritic controls. However, it is not clear whether (1) OA and RA subgroups also differ on these indexes or (2) the extent to which distinct arthritis subgroups versus controls can be accurately identified on the basis of objective PA and sleep indexes compared to self-report measures. This study addressed these gaps.MethodsGender- and age-equated Chinese adults diagnosed with OA (29 women, 11 men) and RA (29 women, 11 men) as well as non-arthritic controls (29 women, 11 men) wore a Sensewear Armband (SWA) for 7 days to obtain objective PA and sleep data in addition to completing complementary, widely-used self-report measures.ResultsThere were no differences between the three groups on any of the 13 self-report PA and sleep indexes completed. Conversely, OA and RA subgroups displayed significantly lower PA levels and more sleep problems than controls did on a majority of SWA indexes, though arthritis subgroups were not differentiated from one another on these measures. Based on non-multicolinear SWA indexes (steps, moderate activity, vigorous activity, time awake after sleep onset), 75 - 82.5% of arthritis subgroup members were correctly identified while accuracy rates were attenuated for controls.ConclusionsWhere possible, objective measures should be used to assess PA and sleep of OA and RA patients while particular self-report PA questionnaires should be avoided.
Transcriptomic analysis of the Echinococcus granulosus protoscolex in the encystation process
Authors: Fan Junjie , Wu Hongye , Li Kai , Liu Xunuo , Tan Qingqing , Cao Wenqiao , Li Xiang , Liao Peng , Liang Bo , Ye Bin
Published: January 2020

Back ground: Echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonosis and in humans it occurs as a result of infection by the larva of Echinococcus granulosus . CE is seriously affects the development of animal husbandry and endangers human health. Due to the lack of in-depth understanding of the cystic fluid formation pathway, prevention and treatment of CE have been lack of innovative methods. Result: High throughput RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) of protoscoleces (PSCs) in the encystation process of total three biological replicates for each period on 0d, 10d, 20d, 40d and 80d were analyzed. The results demonstrated, a total of 32,401 transcripts and 14,903 genes, including numbers new genes, new transcript, stage-specific genes and differently expression genes (DEGs). Genes encoding proteins involved in several signaling pathways, such as putative G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), tyrosine kinases and serine/threonine protein kinase were predominantly up-regulated during encystation process of PSCs. Moreover, three major antioxidant proteins of PSCs were identified, and these proteins demonstrated have a high expression level, including cytochrome c oxidase, thioredoxin glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase. Intriguingly, The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis suggested that up-regulated DEGs involved in the vasopressin-regulated water reabsorption metabolic pathway might play important roles in the protein, carbohydrate, and other substances transport. Conclusions: The present study carried out the transcriptomic analysis of the encystation process of E. granulosus PCSs, which provide valuable information for the mechanism of cystic fluid formation during the encystation process. These results provide a basis and reference for further studies for investigation of the molecular mechanisms involved in PSC growth and development. Keywords: Echinococcus granulosus , Encystation process, Differentially expressed genes, Protoscolex, RNA-seq
Behavioral Sensitization Induced by Methamphetamine Causes Differential Alterations in Gene Expression and Histone Acetylationin of Prefrontal Cortex in the Rat
Authors: Li Hui , Chen Jing-An , Ding Qian-Zhi , Lu Guan-Yi , Wu Ning , Su Rui-Bin , Li Fei , Li Jin
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND: Methamphetamine (METH) is one of the most widely abused illicit substances around the world, unfortunately its addiction mechanism remains unclear. Increasing evidences indicate that the change of gene expression and the involvement of chromatin modifications might be related with the lasting effects of METH on the brain. In the study, we took advantage of METH-induced behavioral sensitization as the animal model that reflects some aspects of drug addiction, and examined the transcription and histone acetylation changes in gene expression in prefrontal cortex (PFC) of adult rats.

METHODS: We conducted the mRNA microarray and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) coupled to DNA microarrays (ChIP-chip) analysis to test and screen the transcriptional changes and histone acetylation modifications. The functional-enrichment analysis including Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were performed to analyze the diﬀerential expression genes. We then further identified the alterations of ANP32A (Acidic leucine-rich nuclear phosphoprotein-32A) and POU3F2 (The POU domain, class 3, transcription factor 2) by real-time PCR and ChIP-PCR assay.

RESULTS: In the rat model of METH-induced behavioral sensitization, challenge of METH caused 275 differentially expressed genes and a number of hyperacetylations (821 genes in H3 acetylation and 10 genes in H4 acetylation). We further tested the alteration of ANP32A and POU3F2 in transcription and histone acetylation at the different periods of this model, and revealed that histone acetylation modifications contributed to mRNA change of the genes expression caused by METH induced-behavioural sensitization while not by METH acute treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: the present results revealed an amount of alteration in transcription and histone acetylation in rat PFC by the exposure of METH, and provided the evidence that the modifications of histone acetylation is contributed to the alteration of the genes expression caused by METH-induced behavioural sensitization.
Longitudinal Impacts of an Online Safety and Health Intervention for Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ford-Gilboe Marilyn , Varcoe Colleen , Scott-Storey Kelly , Perrin Nancy , Wuest Judith , Wathen C. Nadine , Case James , Glass Nancy
Published: January 2020

Background: Responding to intimate partner violence (IPV) and its consequences is made complex by women’s diverse needs, priorities and contexts. Tailored online IPV interventions that account for differences among women have potential to reduce barriers to support and improve key outcomes.
Methods: Double blind randomized controlled trial of 462 Canadian adult women who experienced recent IPV randomly were assigned to receive either a tailored, interactive online safety and health intervention (iCAN Plan 4 Safety) or a static, non-tailored version of this tool. Primary (depressive symptoms, PTSD symptoms) and secondary (helpfulness of safety actions, confidence in safety planning, mastery, social support, experiences of coercive control, and decisional conflict) outcomes were measured at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months later via online surveys. Generalized Estimating Equations were used to test for differences in outcomes by study arm. Differential effects of the tailored intervention for 4 strata of women were examined using effect sizes. Exit survey process evaluation data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests and conventional content analysis.
Results: Women in both tailored and non-tailored groups improved over time on primary outcomes of depression (p<.001) and PTSD (p<.001) and on all secondary outcomes. Changes over time did not differ by study arm. Women in both groups reported high levels of benefit, safety and accessibility of the online interventions, with low risk of harm, although those completing the tailored intervention were more positive about fit and helpfulness. Importantly, the tailored intervention had greater positive effects for 4 groups of women, those: with children under 18 living at home; reporting more severe violence; living in medium-sized and large urban centers; and not living with a partner.
Conclusion: This trial extends evidence about the effectiveness of online safety and health interventions for women experiencing IPV to Canadian women and provides a contextualized understanding about intervention processes and effects useful for future refinement and scale up. The differential effects of the tailored intervention found for specific subgroups support the importance of attending to diverse contexts and needs. iCAN is a promising intervention that can complement resources available to Canadian women experiencing IPV.
Unusual association of Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome and wandering spleen: a case report
Authors: Lin Joseph , Chang Yi-Lin , Li Yu-Hsien , Tsao Lien-Cheng
Published: January 2020

Background : Axenfeld–Rieger syndrome (ARS) is an autosomal dominant genetic disease characterized by ocular developmental disorders and it’s association with torsion of wandering spleen (WS) has not been reported to date to the best of our knowledge. This study aimed to describe a rare case of ARS observed at our emergency department. Case Presentation : A 25-year-old female presented with a constant lower abdominal pain of increasing severity. Diagnostic computed tomography with intravenous contrast material showed a nonhomogenously enhanced splenic parenchyma with a twisted vascular pedicle. Further, an emergent laparoscopic exploration was performed, and an ischemic spleen without its normal ligamentous attachments was noted. Notably, the spleen did not regain its normal vascularity after detorsion; thus, we performed the laparoscopic splenectomy. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the 5 th postoperative day. This case demonstrates a rare association of WS and ARS. Conclusion : Early diagnosis of WS in the emergency department is important to prevent pedicle torsion or splenic necrosis and to avoid splenectomy.
Explore the recycling of bioleaching functional bacteria and sulfur substrate using the sulfur-covered biochar particles
Authors: Wu Chuncheng , Jiang Mengying , Ye Zhe , Cai Yuchen , Shen Yutao , Wang Haizhen , Lin Qi , Shen Chaofeng , Hu Baolan , Lou Liping
Published: January 2020

Background Bioleaching has been attracting attention recent years as an emerging sediment heavy metal pollution remediation technology. However, the use of sulfur powder as sulfur substrate causes the problem of “post-acidification”, and the free bioleaching functional bacteria which are susceptible to environmental impact during reactor operation cannot be used efficiently for multiple rounds. These problems can be solved if the sulfur substrate and the bioleaching functional bacteria can be recycled simultaneously after bioleaching. A new kind of sulfur substrate, the laboratory-made sulfur-covered biochar particles, were used in the bioleaching experiment, compared with sulfur powder and sulfur powder mixed with the surfactant rhamnolipid.Results The sulfur-covered biochar particles exhibited superior bioleaching performance, including faster acidification rate, SO 4 2- production rate and heavy metal bioleaching rate, and higher heavy metal solubilization percentage (Ni 33.76%; Cu 66.16%; Zn 65.494%), which was resulted from the acceleration of bioleaching reaction by the bioleaching functional bacteria immobilized on the biochar surface. Otherwise, the sulfur-covered biochar particles could be reused in the second round, and the heavy metal solubilization percentage (Ni32.84%, Cu69.93%, Zn67.17%) was comparable with that of the first round. Nevertheless, the sulfur content became the main limiting factor causing poor bioleaching performance during the third round. The sulfur mixed with the surfactant rhamnolipid did not show significant effect in promoting acidification and heavy metal solubilization due to high levels of organic matter and the impact of the low pH value.Conclusion The research indicated the laboratory-made sulfur-covered biochar particles could realize the dual immobilization of the bioleaching functional bacteria and the sulfur substrate to support their recycling and reuse in the second bioleaching round. In the future research, the way to maintain the reuse of the sulfur-covered biochar particle for more rounds will be explored.
Mixture toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticle and chemicals with different mode of action upon Vibrio fischeri
Authors: zou xiaoming , Wu Ligui , Chen Fen , Xiao Xiaoyu , Rong Lingling , Li Mi
Published: January 2020

Background: Zinc oxide nanoparticle (nZnO) and chemicals with different mode of action (MOA, i.e., narcotic and reactive) were frequently detected in the Yangtze River. Organisms are typically exposed to mixtures of nZnO and other chemicals rather than individual nZnO. Toxicity of nZnO is caused by the dissolution of Zn2+, which has been proved in the field of single toxicity. However, it is still unclear whether the released Zn2+ plays a critical role in the nZnO toxicity of nZnO-chemicals mixtures. In the present study, the binary mixture toxicity of nZnO/Zn2+ and chemicals with different MOA was investigated in acute (15 min) and chronic (12 h) toxicity test upon Vibrio fischeri (V. fischeri). The joint effects of nZnO and tested chemicals were explored. Moreover, two classic models, concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) were applied to predict the toxicity of mixtures. Results: The difference of toxicity unit (TU) values between the mixtures of Zn2+-chemicals with those of nZnO-chemicals was not significant (P> 0.05), not only in acute toxicity test but also in chronic toxicity test. The antagonistic or additive effects for nZnO-chemicals can be observed in most mixtures, with the TU values ranging from 0.75-1.77 and 0.47-2.45 in acute toxicity test and chronic test, respectively. We also observed that the prediction accuracy of CA and IA models was not very well in the mixtures where the difference between the toxicity ratios of the components was small (less than about 10), with the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) values ranging from 0.14-0.67 for CA model and 0.17-0.51 for IA model, respectively.Conclusion: We found that the dissolved Zn2+ mainly accounted for the nZnO toxicity in the mixtures of nZnO-chemicals, and the joint effects of these mixtures were mostly antagonism and additivity. CA and IA models were unsuitable for predicting the mixture toxicity of nZnO-chemicals at their equitoxic ratios.
Carbon and nitrogen Isotope fractionation of the photo-degradation of herbicides in aqueous solution by nitrates under ultraviolet radiation
Authors: Yu Haiyan , Liu Jinling , Han Changxu , Fang Han , Shu Xingquan , Liu Yongfeng , Pan Yuwei , Ma Limin
Published: January 2020

Background: Phenylurea herbicides are one of the most important and widely used pesticides in the world. Due to its potential persistence and toxicity in the aquatic environment, it poses certain risks to the ecological environment and human health. Studying the photochemical degradation behavior of herbicides is important for understanding the degradation and transformation fate in the environment.Results: This study evaluated the effectiveness of direct and indirect photo-degradation of the herbicides isopropiron (IUP) and methylamine (MN), investigating the influence of operational variables (initial herbicide concentration and light sources) and initial of induced nitrate concentration on these processes in aqueous solution. We also introduced a new technology of compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) to provide deeper information of the photochemical degradation mechanism. Results showed that the light source and the initial concentration have an important effect on the degradation of herbicides IUP and MN. The photolysis rate under the Hg lamp is higher than photolysis rate under Xe lamps. It is found that photolysis kinetics of herbicides were consistent with the quasi-first order model, and the photolysis rate decreases with the increasing of the initial concentration. In indirect photodegradation, the degradation rate increases with increasing NO 3 − concentration at low concentrations of pesticides (8 mg/L); while the degradation rate decreases with increasing NO 3 − concentration at high concentrations of pesticides (30 mg/L ). According to the isotope fractionation, photolysis of IUP exhibits normal carbon isotope fractionation with the degradation rate increases, and the stable isotope enrichment factors under different photolysis pathways are different. In the indirect photo-degradation process, no significant fractionation of nitrogen isotopes occurred, and stable nitrogen isotopes fractionation could not be fitted well in either of the two photodegradation pathways.Conclusion: Therefore, the structure and chemical characteristics of the molecules of herbicides play a determinant role in their photodegradation. The CSIA is useful both for a mechanism-based evaluation of experimental results and as a valuable tool to explore transformation pathways for organic pollutants in different environmental systems.
Effects of Radial Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy on Flexor Spasticity of the Upper Limb in Post-stroke Patients: Study Protocol for A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fan Tao , Zhou Xiangying , He Peichen , Zhan Xiaojia , Zheng Peng , Li Rongdong , Li Rihui , Wei Mingyang , Zhang Xue , Huang Guozhi
Published: January 2020

Background: Flexor Spasticity of the Upper Limb is common in post-stroke patients and seriously affects the recovery of upper limb function. However, there are no standard management protocols for this condition. Radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) is widely used as a non-invasive treatment method for various diseases, but its efficacy in reducing spasticity remains undefined. Methods/design: A prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled trial is to be performed to study the efficacy of rESWT on the treatment of upper limb spasticity after strokes. One hundred participants will be recruited from the Inpatient department of Zhujiang hospital for this study. Patients who meet the inclusion criteria will be randomly allocated to either receive 3 sessions of active rESWT (Group A) or sham-placebo rESWT (Group B) with three day intervals between each session. Assessment will be performed at baseline and at each of the post-rESWT time points (t1, t2 and t3). The primary assessment outcome will be the Modified Ashworth Scale, while the secondary assessment outcomes will include surface electromyography, MyotonPRO digital muscle function evaluation and infrared thermal imaging. Discussion: This trial is aimed at analyzing the application of rESWT for the management of spasticity after stroke via comprehensive and quantitative assessments. We hypothesized that after receiving active rESWT, patients will show greater improvement of upper limb muscles, compared with patients of the sham-placeborESWT group. The rESWT would be an attractive alternative to traditional methods and the results of this study may provide guidance and support for the further study of potential mechanisms.
Impact of routine assessment of health-related quality of life coupled with therapeutic information on compliance with endocrine therapy in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer
Authors: KAMGA Ariane MAMGUEM , MARTINO Cyril DI , ANOTA Amélie , PAGET-BAILLY Sophie , COUTANT Charles , ARVEUX Patrick , DESMOULINS Isabelle , YONLI Sandrine Tienhan DABAKUYO
Published: January 2020

Background: Despite its proven effectiveness in reducing recurrence and improving survival, adherence to endocrine therapy (ET) is suboptimal in women with breast cancer (BC). Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in BC has been widely studied and many positive effects have been highlighted. Recently, a link between HRQoL and compliance with ET has been suggested, which would suggest a potential role for HRQoL assessment in improving compliance with ET. With the advent of digital technologies, electronic collection of HRQoL on a tablet is now possible. Thus, we hypothesize that systematic HRQoL assessment (using a tablet, prior to each consultation, with presentation of scores to clinicians) coupled with therapeutic information could have an impact on 12-month compliance with ET in patients with non-metastatic BC. Methods: In this study, we will include 342 women with non-metastatic hormone receptor positive BC with an indication for treatment with ET. Patients will be randomized 1:1 by minimization and stratified by: age, stage, type of ET prescribed and presence of comorbidities or not, in 2 arms. The intervention will consist of numerical HRQoL assessment using the CHES software before each consultation (with delivery of scores to clinicians) coupled with therapeutic information. Therapeutic information will consist on 3 workshops related to understanding the prescription, nutrition and fatigue. A reminder letter will also be send to patients every month. Patients in the control group will follow standard care. HRQoL will be assessed using a classic “paper-pencil” collection at baseline in both arms to ensure comparability between arms and at 12-month. The primary endpoint is 12-month compliance with ET. Patient satisfaction with care, and clinicians' perception of the usefulness of routine HRQoL assessment will also be assessed. Discussion: This study will allow clinicians to identify and better understand the areas in which patients on ET have difficulties, and thus assist clinicians with patient management. Systematic evaluation of HRQoL could also provide an additional endpoint for measuring patients' health status and treatment-related symptoms, including ET. If the results of this study are positive, this intervention could be proposed as an integral part of daily clinical practice in patients treated with ET. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04176809. Registered 25 November 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04176809.
Vestibular prognosis in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss with vestibular dysfunction treated with oral or intratympanic glucocorticoids: a protocol for randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Huawei , Hao Weiming , Zhao Liping , Yu Huiqian
Published: January 2020

Background Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is a rapid-onset sensorineural hearing impairment with unclear etiology and unsatisfying treatment effects. Vestibular dysfunction has been considered as a poor indicator in the clinical manifestations and prognosis of ISSNHL, which occurred in approximately 28%-57% cases. Glucocorticoids, administered through oral or intratympanic way, is currently a regular and standard treatment for ISSNHL based on hearing outcome. However, little investigations have been conducted on the recovery process and treatment effects of glucocorticoids on vestibular dysfunctions of ISSNHL. This study aims to compare the efficacy of oral or intratympanic glucocorticoids in ISSNHL with vestibular dysfunction in terms of the pattern and trajectory of possible process of vestibular function recovery.Methods/Design A randomized, outcome-assessor- and analyst-blinded, controlled, clinical trial (RCT) will be carried out. A group of seventy-two patients with ISSNHL complaining of vestibular dysfunction appearing as vertigo, dizziness or imbalance will be recruited and randomized into two arms of either oral or intratympanic glucocorticoids therapy with a 1:1 allocation ratio. The primary outcomes will be vestibular function outcomes assessed by sensory organization test, caloric test, video head impulse test, and vestibular evoked myogenic potentials; the secondary outcomes include self-reported vestibular dysfunction symptoms; dizziness-related handicap, visual analogue scale for vertigo and tinnitus; and pure tone audiometry. Assessment will be performed at baseline and at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-randomization. To our knowledge, this will be the first randomized controlled trial focusing on the prognosis of vestibular dysfunction in ISSNHL and the efficacy of glucocorticoids therapy for the vestibular dysfunction in this disease.Discussion This trial will be the first RCT study focusing on the progress and prognosis of vestibular dysfunction in ISSNHL. Efficacy of two commonly used therapies of glucocorticoids will be compared in both auditory and vestibular function fields, rather than in the hearing outcome alone. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03974867. Registered on July 23, 2019.
Predictive value of postoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on the early Periprosthetic joint infection after total joint arthroplasty: a pilot study
Authors: Zhao Guang lei , Chen Jie , Wang Jin , Wang Siqun , Xia Jun , Wei Yibing , Wu Jianguo , Huang Gangyong , Chen Feiyan , Shi Jingsheng , Huang Xin
Published: January 2020

Objective : The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of the postoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on early periprosthetic joint infection. Methods : During the period from January 2008 to December 2016, 104 patients (26 early PJI cases and 78 non-PJI cases) who underwent total joint arthroplasty in the department of orthopedics in our Hospital were enrolled in our study. All of the relevant clinical information and laboratory indexes were reviewed from the our Hospital Follow-up system. The time when any abnormal symptoms or signs occurred including fever, local swelling or redness around the surgical site 2 weeks after the operations was defined as the “suspect time”. We compared the laboratory parameters including the NLR 、PLR、LMR、ESR and the CRP between the two groups. The trend of the NLR、LMR、PLR、CRP and ESR were also reviewed after the surgery. The predictive ability of these parameters at suspect time on the early PJI were evaluated by multivariate analysis and the Receiver operating curve analysis (ROC). Results : NLR, PLR and LMR returned to preoperative level within two weeks in two groups after surgery. In the early PJI group, NLR and PLR were significantly increased during the incubation period of infection or infection, LMR was significantly reduced, although 61.5% (16/26) of the patients had normal white blood cell. Interesting, the ESR and CRP were still in relative high level two weeks after the operation and the change of these two indexes was not obvious when the infection occurs. The NLR and PLR was significantly correlated with the early PJI (OR NLR =88.36, OR PLR =1.12, P NLR =0.005, P PLR =0.01) and the NLR has a great predict ability for early PJI with the cut-off value 2.77 (Sensitivity=84.6% ，Specificity=89.7%, 95% CI=0.86-0.97) Conclusions: ESR and CRP are not sensitive for diagnosis of early PJI due to their persistent high level after arthroplasty. The postoperative NLR at suspect time have a great ability in predicting early PJI and more attention should be applied to it.
In silico and in vivo anti-malarial investigation on [(5-nitroheteroaryl-2-yl) methylidene] hydrazinyl hetroaryl derivatives
Authors: Tahghighi Azar ,   Seyed-Mahdi Mohamadi-Zarch1, Rahimi Hamze , Marashiyan Mahya , Maleki-Ravasan Naseh , Eslamifar Ali
Published: January 2020

Background Today, the resistance to Plasmodium falciparum against common anti-malarial drugs has attracted the attention towards the alternative and effective drugs. Synthetic derivatives of [(5-nitroieroaryl-2-yl) methylidene] hydrazineyl heteroaryl showed in vitro anti-plasmodial activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the molecular binding and antiplasmid activity of in vivo synthetic compounds.Methods: The molecular docking was used to study the binding of compounds to heme and Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase (PfLDH). Acute toxicity of the synthetic compounds was evaluated based on modified up & down method. Anti-plasmodial activity of the compounds was conducted by two standard methods of Peter and Rane’s tests via chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium berghei . Also, the toxicity of mice’s internal organs was evaluated on day 7 in addition to the histopathology of their liver.Results The docking studies showed that active site of PfLDH had at least four common residues including Ala98, Ile54, Gly29 and Tyr97 to bind the compounds with the affinity ranging from -8.0 to -8.4 Kcal/mol. The mode of binding of ligands to heme revealed effective binding affinity ranging from -5.1 to -5.5 Kcal/mol. Compound 2 showed the highest % suppression of parasitemia (99.09%) at the dose of 125mg/kg/day in Peter’s tests. Compound 3 with 79.42% suppression was the best compounds in Rane’s test at the lowest dose (31.25 mg/kg/day). The histopathology of the mice’s livers did not reveal the focal necrosis of hepatocytes in the studied compounds.Conclusions The docking studies verified Pf LDH inhibition and the inhibitory effect on the hemozoin formation for the studied compounds. Accordingly, some compounds may provide new achievements for the development of antimalarial drugs without liver toxicity, although further studies are required to optimize their anti-plasmodial activity.
High frequency of Taenia solium antigen positivity in patients admitted for neurological disorders in the Rural Hospital of Mosango, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Authors: MUKENDI Deby , Kalo Jean-Roger Lilo , Lutumba Pascal , Barbé Barbara , Jacobs Jan , Yansouni Cedric P , Gabriël Sarah , Dorny Pierre , Chappuis François , Boelaert Marleen , Winkler Andrea S , Verdonck Kristiern , Bottieau Emmanuel
Published: January 2020

Background The epidemiology of human cysticercosis and neurocysticercosis, caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium, is not well known in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). As part of an etiological study, we consecutively evaluated from 2012 to 2016 all patients older than 5 years admitted for neurological disorders (neurology cohort) at the rural hospital of Mosango, province of Kwilu, DRC. No neuroimaging was available. A similar study was conducted among patients presenting with persistent fever (> 7 days) during the same period in the same hospital. In both studies, etiological diagnosis relied on a systematic set of reference laboratory assays and on pre-established clinical case definitions. The aim of this post-hoc analysis was to determine the frequency of T. solium infection in these neurology and persistent fever cohorts and to explore its association with specific neurological presentations and final etiological diagnoses.Methods All available serum samples of the neurology cohort and a subset (50%) of the samples of the persistent fever cohort were submitted to immunoassays detecting either circulating antigens or antibodies of T. solium, by means of the B158/B60 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and of the LDBIO Cysticercosis Western Blot IgG assay, respectively.Results For the neurology cohort, 340 samples (of 351 enrolled patients) were available for analysis (males: 46.8%; mean age: 38.9 years). T. solium antigen positivity was found in 43 participants (12.6%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 9.3-16.7%), including 9 of 60 (15%) patients with epilepsy. Of the 148 evaluated samples from the persistent fever cohort (males: 39.9%; mean age: 19.9 years), 7 had positive T. solium antigen (4.7%; 95% CI 1.9-9.5%; P=0.009 when compared to the neurology cohort). No significant association was found within the neurology cohort between positivity and clinical presentation or final diagnoses. Of note, the antibody-based assay was found positive in only four (1.3%) of the participants of the neurology cohort and in none of the persistent fever cohort.Conclusions T. solium antigen positivity was frequent in patients admitted with neurological disorders in the Kwilu province, DRC. Further neuroimaging studies should explore whether neurocysticercosis is prevalent in this region.
Nutritional analyses of Black tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from Sri Lanka
Authors: Premarathna Amal Dharmapriya , Kumara A.M.C.P , Jayasooriya A.P , Satharasinghe Dilan A , Pathirana E.
Published: January 2020

Objective Fish and crustacean are important sources of animal proteins and other essential nutrients required in the human diet. They are widely accepted for their high palatability, high protein content and tender flesh. In this study, proximate analyses were done for flesh of brackish water shrimp species Penaeus monodon and fresh water fish species Oreochromis niloticus .Results Percentage of protein content was high values in Penaeus monodon (9.31±0.63) compared to Oreochromis niloticus (7.85±0.79). The highest lipid content was present in Penaeus monodon (0.23±0.22%) while the lowest value was shown by Oreochromis niloticus (0.07±0.16%). Comperativily, the percentage of total carbohydrate content is the highest in Brackish water shrimp than fresh water fish Nile tilapia. The study revealed high protein content and a high fat content in the meat of Penaeus monodon . Information on the nutrient composition of Penaeus monodon is needed to encourage the processing, utilization and marketing of this commonest species of Sri Lanka. It can then be inferred that the shrimps ( Penaeus monodon ) could be employed as a supplement of protein and minerals, so as to balance human nutrition. Hence the consumption of shrimps ( Penaeus monodon ) would help as a good source of nutrients.
Long-term outcomes of patients undergoing uncemented or cemented arthroplasty revision following metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty failure: A retrospective observational study with a mean follow-up of 7 years
Authors: Chen Wenli , Shuai Mao , Lin Jinluan , Chen Baomin , Zhao Mingdong , Zhang Xinchao , Yu Weiguang , Han Guowei
Published: January 2020

Background A high rate of complications due to metal-on-metal (MoM) revisions has been relatively commonly documented. The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the long-term outcomes of patients who had undergone uncemented or cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) revision for prior primary MoM THA failure.Methods Data from 234 patients (234 hips) who underwent uncemented or cemented THA (UTHA or CTHA) for prior primary MoM THA failure during 2007 - 2018 were retrospectively analysed. Follow-up occurred 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and then every 1 year after conversion. The mean follow-up time was 84.15 months (range, 67 - 101 months). The primary endpoint was the modified Harris Hip Score (HHS). The secondary endpoint was the major orthopaedic complication rate.Results The HHS demonstrated statistically greater differences in the CTHA group than in the UTHA group 12 months after conversion. From the 12th month after conversion to the final follow-up, CTHA yielded better functional outcomes than UTHA. There were significant differences in the rates of re-revision, aseptic loosening, and periprosthetic fracture between the groups (10.3% for UTHA vs 2.5% for CTHA, p = 0.015; 16.3% for UTHA vs 5.9% for CTHA, p = 0.011; and 12.0% for UTHA vs 4.2% for CTHA, p = 0.045, respectively).Conclusion In the setting of revision for primary MoM THA failure, we found definite evidence of the superiority of CTHA over UTHA in terms of improving functional outcomes and decreasing the major orthopaedic complication rate.
Arthroscopic ankle fusion only has a limited advantage over the open operation if the condition is similar: a retrospective comparative study
Authors: Wang Chenggong , Xu Can , Li Mingqing , Li Hui , Wang Long , Zhong Da , Liu Hua
Published: January 2020

Background: A great deal of research suggests that arthroscopic ankle fusion (AAF) has advantages over open ankle fusion (OAF), but these outcomes would be imprecise because of a selection bias. The purpose of this study is to verify which is better for ankle fusion, AAF or OAF. We regrouped the OAF group into two subgroups according to whether the disease condition is similar to AAF group. The goal is to minimize the impact of disease severity, thereby reducing selection bias to some extent. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of ankle fusion in our hospital between July 2015 and October 2018. 43 patients were enrolled and divided into AAF group (n=17) and OAF group (n=26). In order to eliminate selection bias, we divided OAF group into serious condition subgroup (SC subgroup) (n=15) and not serious condition subgroup (NSC subgroup) (n=11). The NSC subgroup condition is similar to AAF group. Then, we compared the differences between these groups. All patients were followed up at least one year after operation. We analyzed data, including etiology composition, surgical time, intra-op blood loss, reduction of albumin, total hospital stays, union time, fusion situation, complications, radiological examination, functional score and questionnaire survey. Then we performed statistical analyses. Results: We found that the etiological components of AAF group and OAF group were different, the etiological components of AAF group and NSC subgroup were similar. We found that AAF group has advantages over OAF group and SC subgroup in general. However, except in terms of surgical trauma, hospital stays and short-term complications occurred, the AAF group has not obvious advantages over NSC subgroup, including intra-op blood loss, fusion condition, postoperative function score and postoperative patient satisfaction; and AAF group need more surgical time than the NSC subgroup. Conclusions: The arthroscopic ankle fusion can bring a good curative effect. However, if the condition is similar, the arthroscopic ankle fusion only has a limited advantage over the open operation in beautiful incision, perioperative soft tissue protection and enhanced recovery after surgery.
Multidisciplinary Cooperation Alleviates Postoperative Pain after Elective Craniotomies: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study of Neurosurgical Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program
Authors: Qu Liang , Wang Yuan , Liu Bolin , Zhang Haitao , Li Zhengmin , Niu Jiangtao , Zhao Binfang , Zhao Tianzhi , Jiang Xue , Ye Lin , Zhao Lanfu , Lv Wenhai , Zhang Yufu , Zheng Tao , Xue Yafei , Chen Lei , Chen Long , Wu Yingxi , Li Mingjuan , Ma Lin , Li Ruigang , Li Juan , Yan Jing , Wang Shasha , Zhao Hui , Sun Xude , Gao Guodong , Wang Xuelian , Qu Yan , He Shiming
Published: January 2020

Objective: To prospectively evaluate the efficacy of neurosurgical enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol on the management of postoperative pain after elective craniotomies. Methods: This randomised controlled trial was conducted in the neurosurgical center of Tangdu Hospital (Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China). A total of 129 patients undergoing craniotomies between October 2016 and July 2017 were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial comparing ERAS protocol and conventional care. The primary outcome was the postoperative pain score assessed by a verbal numerical rating scale (NRS). Results: Patients in the ERAS group had a significant reduction in postoperative pain score on POD 1 compared to patients in the control group (mean NRS 3.12 vs. 4.44, OR 0.0968, 95% CI 0.3299 to 2.317, p = 0.010). More patients (n = 44, 68.8%) in the ERAS group experienced mild pain (NRS: 1 to 3) on POD1 compared with patients (n = 23, 35.4%) in the control group (p < 0.05). A significant reduction in pain score was observed on POD 2 and POD 3 in the ERAS group compared with that in the control group (POD2: mean NRS 2.85 vs. 4.32, OR 0.2628, 95% CI 0.5619 to 2.379, p=0.002. POD3: mean NRS 2.32 vs. 4.03, OR 0.1468, 95% CI 0.9537 to 2.458, p < 0.001, respectively). In addition, the median postoperative length of hospital stay was significantly decreased with the incorporation of ERAS protocol compared to the controls (ERAS: 4 days, control: 7 days, P<0.001). Conclusion: Implementation of the neurosurgical ERAS protocol for elective craniotomy patients have significant benefits in alleviating postoperative pain and enhancing recovery after surgery compared to the conventional care. Further evaluation of this protocol in larger, multi-center studies is warranted.
Exploring risk factors for intraoperative aneurysm rupture during clipping
Authors: Zhu Zhi , Song Ningning , Kato Yoko , Chen Xi , Jiang Weichao , Li Yukui , Xiao Fei , Fan Chaofan , Tan Guowei , Chen Sifang
Published: January 2020

Objective To investigate risk factors for aneurysm rupture in intracranial aneurysm clipping (IAC). Methods Patients admitted for IAC from April 2010 to December 2017 in the Fujita Health University Hospital or the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical parameters were recorded and analyzed using univariate and multivariate analysis. The Hunt-Hess grade was used to assess the preoperative clinical status of patients. Modified Rankin Scale was applied to evaluate the prognosis of patients 6 months after surgery. Results Univariate analysis showed that the preoperative clinical status ( p = 0.015) and the preoperative aneurysm rupture ( p = 0.005) were significantly associated with intraoperative aneurysm rupture (IAR) during clipping. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the preoperative aneurysm rupture was an independent risk factor of IAR ( p < 0.001, OR = 10.518). There was no significant difference in the prognosis between patients with and without IAR ( p > 0.05). No significant differences existed on aspects of incidences and time points of rupture in the operations conducted by experienced surgeons compared with that conducted by less-experienced surgeons ( p > 0.05). Conclusion Preoperative aneurysm rupture is the independent risk factor for aneurysm rupture during IAC. Intraoperative rupture, if treated properly in time, has no influence on the prognosis of patients receiving IAC. Less-experienced surgeons can also reduce the incidence rate of IAR by strictly controlling surgical indications.
Multimodal Imaging and Genetic Characteristics of Chinese Patients with USH2A-Associated Nonsyndromic Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Chen Chong , Sun Qiao , Gu Mingmin , Qian Tianwei , Luo Dawei , Liu Kun , Xu Xun , Yu Suqin
Published: January 2020

Background To determine the clinical characteristics and molecular genetic background responsible for USH2A mutations associated with nonsyndromic retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in five Chinese families, a retrospective cross-sectional study was performed. Data of detailed history and comprehensive ophthalmological examinations were extracted from medical charts. Genomic DNA was sequenced by whole-exome sequencing. The pathogenicity predictions were evaluated by in silico analysis. The structural modeling of the wide-type and mutant USH2A proteins was displayed based on I-Tasser software.Results The ultrawide-field fundus imaging showed a distinctive pattern of hyperautofluorescence in the parafoveal ring with macular sparing. Ten USH2A variants were detected, including seven missense mutations, two splicing mutations and one insertion mutation. Six of these variants have already been reported, and the remaining four were novel. Of the de novo mutations, the p.C931Y and p.G4489S mutations were predicted to be deleterious or probably damaging; the p.M4853V mutation was predicted to be neutral or benign; and the IVS22+3A>G mutation was a splicing mutation that could influence mRNA splicing and affect the formation of the hairpin structure of the USH2A protein.Conclusions Our data further confirm that USH2A plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of photoreceptors and expand the spectrum of USH2A mutations that are associated with nonsyndromic RP in Chinese patients.