bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrion-mediated iron accumulation promotes carcinogenesis and Warburg effect through reactive oxygen species in osteosarcoma
Authors: Ni Shuo , Kuang Yanbin , Yuan Yin , Yu Baoqing
Published: May 2020

Background
Iron metabolism disorder is associated with cancer, however its underlying mechanisms of the carcinogenesis and energy metabolism in osteosarcoma is yet unknown.
Methods
In this study, depletion of mitoferrin 1 (SLC25A37) and mitoferrin 2 (SLC25A28) were generated by shRNA. The carcinogenesis, migration and invasion were detected by soft agar formation, transwell and wound healing assay. The xenograft tumor mouse model was used to evaluate the role of iron in vivo. Seahorse metabolic analyser was used to assess the metabolism of SAOS-2 and U2OS cells. Iron assay kit was used to detect the level of iron in vitro. Expression of Warburg key genes were measured by Western blot. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA).
Results
We demonstrated that mitochondrion-mediated iron accumulation promoted the carcinogenesis and Warburg effect through reactive oxygen species (ROS) in osteosarcoma cell lines. Knock-out of mitoferrin rescued the iron-mediated ROS production. Iron-mediated ROS affected osteosarcoma cells metabolism via down-regulating AMPK signaling pathway, which increased mTORC1 activity. Furthermore, we found that iron chelator could reduce the tumorigenicity in vivo and in vitro.
Conclusions
Mitochondrion iron accumulation contributes to the development of cancer, and deprivation of iron might be a novel effective strategy in osteosarcoma.
Knockdown of ZNF280A inhibits the development and progression of ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhu Dawei , Gu Xing , Li Li , Chen Xuebing , Huang Jie
Published: May 2020

Background

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the leading causes of death from gynecological malignancies worldwide. Abnormal expression of zinc finger proteins has been extensively reported to be involved in malignant progression in a variety of cancers. However, clinical significance and biological roles of ZNF280A in the field of OC are poorly known.
Methods

In this study, we demonstrated that ZNF280A was highly expressed in OC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. Further, ZNF280A was positively associated with clinical staging, infiltration, lymphatic metastasis, metastasis, and tumor recurrence of OC patients. Additionally, data of in vitro experiments indicated that knockdown of ZNF280A by its shRNA dramatically reduced the proliferation and migration ability of OC cells, while enhancing the cell apoptosis.
Results

It was also verified by animal experiments that ZNF280A silencing would affect the growth of OC in vivo. Our study investigated the involvement of ZNF280A in the prognosis, progression and metastasis of OC.
Conclusions

Therefore, ZNF280A was identified as an optional prognostic factor in OC patients and can be used as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of OC.
Integrative analysis of the characteristic of lipid metabolism-related genes for the prognostic prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Wenbiao , Zeng Jun , Ou Minglin , Tang Donge
Published: May 2020

Background

Dysregulation of lipid metabolism has been implicated in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We therefore investigated the molecular characteristics of lipid-metabolism-related genes for the prognostic prediction of HCC.
Methods

Multi-dimensional bioinformatics analysis was conducted to comprehensively analyzed the lipid metabolism-related genes (IMRG) and construct the prognostic prediction signature.
Results

A total of 770 HCC patients and their corresponding 776 IMRGs were downloaded from three databases. The HCC patients were classified into 2 molecular clusters, which were associated with overall survival, clinical characteristics, and immune cells. The biological function of the differentially expressed IMRGs in the 2 clusters showed that the genes were associated with tumor-related metabolism pathways. A 6 IMRGs signature (6-IS), including FMO3, SLC11A1, RNF10, KCNH2, ME1, and ZIC2 were established for HCC prognostic prediction, which was found to be an independent prognostic factor. Performance of the 6-IS prognostic signature was verified in a validation set and compared with an external data set. Results revealed that the 6-IS signature could effectively predict the prognosis of patients with HCC.
Conclusion

This study provides new insights into the role of IMRG in the pathogenesis of HCC and presents a novel signature 6-IS to predict the prognosis of HCC.
LncRNA XIST acts as a microRNA-520 sponge to regulate the cisplatin resistance in NSCLC cells by mediating BAX through ceRNA network
Authors: Liu Ting-Ting , Li Rui , Liu Xiao , Zhou Xi-Jia , Huo Chen , Li Jian-Ping , Qu Yi-Qing
Published: May 2020

Background

In recent years, LncRNA acts as a member of competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), playing an important role in drug resistance of lung cancer. The aim of this study was to identify potential biomarkers about cisplatin resistant lung cancer cells using a comprehensive ceRNA network.
Methods

GSE6410 (GPL-201) analyzed gene expression changes about cispaltin resistance in A549 NSCLC cells. GSE43249 (GPL-14613) included noncoding RNA expression profiling derived from the cisplatin resistant A549 lung cells. GEO2R, an online analysis tool, analyzed the differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs (DEmRNAs and DEmiRNAs). To explore the functional enrichment implication of differentially expressed mRNAs, we used the GO and KEGG pathway analysis. Through miRDB、Targetscan、Starbase、miRWalk, we found targeted miRNAs. The Kaplan-Meier curve method was used to show clinical survival analysis of targeted RNAs (P < 0.05). The Starbase database predicted potential lncRNAs mediated targeted miRNAs. Eventually, the novel ceRNA network of lncRNAs, miRNAs, mRNA was constructed by cytoscape3.7.2.
Results

118 differentially expressed mRNAs were the basis of the mediated ceRNA network. DAVID and Kaplan-Meier picked out BAX, an apoptosis regulator. Venn Diagram demonstrated 8 miRNAs commomly regulating Bax. Starbase predicted lncRNA XIST mediated miRNAs. Finally, lncRNA XIST maybe a useful biomarker regulating cisplatin resistance in lung cancer cells.
Conclusions

LncRNA XIST competitively bound to miRNA 520 in the regulation of cisplatin resistance by BAX, participating apoptosis in the p53 signaling pathway.
Chronic Kidney Disease and associated factors among HIV/AIDS Patients on HAART at University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Manaye Gizachew Ayele , Abateneh Dejene Derseh , Asmare Wondwossen Niguse
Published: May 2020

Background

In developing countries, both opportunistic infections and chronic diseases account a high HIV associated mortality and morbidity. Chronic kidney diseases (CKD) associated with HIV infection has got increased attention in sub-Saharan Africa as a result of the high HIV prevalence and due to the late diagnosis and initiation of HAART. Thus, this study was conducted to assess CKD and associated factors among HIV patients on HARRT in Northwest Ethiopia.
Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study with a secondary data review was conducted from February 01 to April 30, 2017, at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. The study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire by trained nurses. Venous blood and urine specimen was collected for serum creatinine and urine protein determination respectively. Glomerular filtration rate was estimated using the CKD–EPI estimator. Data were entered into SPSS version 20 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was employed and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results

A total of 336 HIV patients on HARRT participated in the study. The mean (SD) age of the participants was 39.7 (± 9.7) years. The study participants were on HAART with an average of 7.5 (± 3) years. Before ART initiation, the majority of patients had WHO clinical stage II and III, 251 (74.7%), CD4 + T cell count < 200 cells/mm3, 221 (65.8%).The overall prevalence of CKD was 16.1%. About 27 (8.0%), 16 (4.8%), 11 (3.3%) of the participants had stage 1 and stage 2 CKD and chronic renal failure (stage 3a-5) respectively. With multivariate logistic regression analysis being male (AOR = 2.05 (1.03–4.09), p = 0.04, occupation merchant (AOR = 2.91(1.00-8.48),p = 0.049)and viral load ≥ 1000 copies/mm3 (AOR = 3.1 (1.38-7.00), P < 0.01) were significantly associated with CKD.
Conclusions

The prevalence of CKD among HIV patients on HARRT is high. Being male, merchant and viral load ≥ 1000 copies/mm3 were associated factors of CKD. Patients should be regularly monitored and screened for early diagnosis and management of CKD. Those patients with high viral load and male patients should be closely followed.
MicroRNA-488-3p is expressed highly in ethanol-induced cardiomyocytes and regulates mitochondrial function via target gene MFN1
Authors: Liu Ye , Song Bing
Published: May 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Australasian Interstitial Lung Disease Registry (AILDR): Objectives, Design and Rationale of a Bi-National Prospective Database
Authors: Moore Irene , Wrobel Jeremy , Rhodes Jessica , Lin Qi , Webster Susanne , Jo Helen , Troy Lauren , Grainge Christopher , Glaspole Ian , Corte Tamera J
Published: May 2020

Background:
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is a group of respiratory conditions affecting the lung interstitium often associated with progressive respiratory failure. There is increasing recognition of the need for improved epidemiological data to help determine best practice and improve standardisation of care. The Australasian ILD Registry (AILDR) is a bi-national registry of patients with all ILD subtypes designed to establish a clinically meaningful database reflecting real world practice in Australasia with an objective to improve diagnostic and treatment pathways through research and collaboration.
Methods:
AILDR is a prospective observational registry recruiting patients attending ILD clinics at centres around Australia and New Zealand. Core and non-core data are stored on a secure server. The pilot phase was launched in 2016 consisting of four sites in Australia. Currently in its second phase a further 16 sites have been recruited, including three in New Zealand.
Results:
A total of 1061 participants were consented during the pilot phase. Baseline data demonstrated a mean age 68.3 ± 12.5 (SD) years, mean FVC (%predicted) 79.1 ± 20.4 (SD), mean DLCO (%predicted) 58.5 ± 17.9 (SD) and nadir exertional SpO2 (%) 91 ± 6.9 (SD). Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (31%) and connective-tissue disease related ILD (21.7%) were the two most common subtypes. Baseline demographics and physiology were not significantly different across the four centres.
Conclusion:
AILDR is an important clinical and research tool providing a platform for epidemiological data that will prove essential in promoting understanding of a rare cohort of lung disease and provide foundations for our aspiration to standardise investigation and treatment pathways of ILD across Australasia.
Transport and Chronic Injuries of Cell Phone use on Human Health: A Systematic Analysis of Epidemiological Evidence
Authors: Cao Xinxi , Xu Chenjie , Hou Yabing , Yang Hongxi , Li Shu , Gao Ying , Jia Peng , Wang Yaogang
Published: May 2020

Background Cell phone use brought convenience to people, but using phones for a long period of time or in the wrong way and with a wrong posture might cause damage to the human body. This study was designed to assess the impact of cell phone use on transport and chronic injuries.Methods Studies were systematically searched in four database and relevant reviews were searched to identify additional studies. A total of 41 studies met the inclusion criteria.Results Cell phone users were at a higher risk for transport injuries (RR: 1.37, 95%CI: 1.22−1.55), long-term use of cell phones increased the transport injury risk to non-use or short-term use (RR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.63−2.70). Neoplasm risk caused by cell phone use was 1.07 times that of non-use (95% CI: 1.01−1.14); Compared with non-use, cell phone use had a higher risk of eye disease, with a risk of 2.03 (95% CI: 1.27−3.23), the risk of mental disease was 1.26 (95% CI: 1.17−1.35), the risk of neurological disorder was 1.16 (95% CI: 1.02−1.32), and a pooled risk of other chronic injuries, was 1.20 (95% CI: 0.98−1.59). Subgroup analyses found that motor crashes had significantly increased (OR: 1.25; 95%CI: 1.18−1.32), as well as the risk for hearing problems (OR: 4.54; 95%CI: 3.29−5.80), headaches (OR: 1.25; 95%CI: 1.18−1.32), and abnormal biochemical indicators (OR: 0.51; 95%CI: 0.04−0.99).Conclusions Cell phone use at inappropriate situations has a negative impact on the human body. Therefore, it is necessary to use cell phones correctly and reasonably.
Effect of different kinds of SiC fibers on microwave absorption and mechanical properties of SiCf/SiC composites
Authors: Ren Zhaowen , Zhou Wancheng , Qing Yuchang , Duan Shichang , Wen Qinlong , Zhou Yingying , Li Yanyu
Published: May 2020

The SiC fibers are essential for designing microwave absorption and mechanical properties of multifunctional composites. In this study, SLF, KD-II and KD-S SiC fibers were used to fabricate SiC f /SiC composites. The SLF SiC fibers are composed by amorphous SiOC. The KD-II and KD-S SiC fibers exhibit higher crystallizations and free carbon content. The conductivity of SLF, KD-II and KD-S SiC fibers are 0.0127, 1.184 and 0.1316 S/cm, respectively. The flexural strength of SLF, KD-II and KD-S SiC f /SiC composites are 147.77, 322.57 and 248.16 MPa, respectively. The microwave absorption property of the SLF SiC f /SiC composites can be obtained over -25 dB with a thickness of 2.3 mm and the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) below -10 dB reaches 3.72 GHz with the thickness of 2.7 mm. In contrast, the KD-II SiC f /SiC composites only reach -3.6 dB in the whole X band when the thickness varies from 2 to 2.9 mm. KD-S SiC f /SiC composites can be obtained over -9dB with the thickness of 2mm and the EAB below -7 dB reaches 4.12 GHz with a thickness of 2.2 mm. The mechanisms of mechanical, microwave absorption and penitential applications for SiC f /SiC composites are also discussed.
Imaging anatomy and clinical significance of percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal oblique fixation from posterior corner in lumbar spine
Authors: Chen Feifei , Liu Xiaoyang , Sun Jianmin , Xin Jun , Su Cheng , Cui Xingang
Published: May 2020

BackgroundPercutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (PE-TLIF) has been widely discussed due to its advantages of less trauma, less bleeding, quick recovery, high safety, and relatively fewer complications, as well as other adverse factors such as incomplete decompression, steep learning curve, low fusion rate, and high radiation risk. It can keep the posterior structure of spine intact to the greatest extent, ensure the stability of spine after surgery, and achieve decompression with minor trauma. However, posterior percutaneous pedicle screws are often needed for fusion and fixation after decompression, and additional posterior trauma, postural changes and anesthesia methods are often required. Interbody fixation and fusion are often independent and not one-stop completion. The authors consider whether the percutaneous spinal endoscopy can be used to achieve complete decompression and fusion under a single minimally invasive channel, while achieving one-stop endoscopic decompression, fusion and fixation. The purpose of this paper is to provide the anatomic feasibility for oblique fixation by measuring the imaging anatomic parameters, especially to provide the anatomic basis for the design of new endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion cage.Methods Sixty volunteers (22 men and 38 women) who underwent lumbar CT scans were collected and sent to the GEAW4.4 workstation. The distances from posterior corner in the lumbar spine to the corresponding targets of the contralateral anterior corner and the included angles between each path line in sagittal and axial plane were measured and analyzed statistically.Results In the medium group, PC path was the shortest, PA path and PB path had little difference (P=0.123), with no statistical significance. In the full-length group, PF path was the shortest, and there was no significant difference between PD path and PE path (P =0.177). PE was the optimal path. The included angles a1, a2, a3, b1, b2, and b3 in sagittal plane and c1, c2 and c3 in axial plane were significantly different (P=0.000), namely, a1 >a2>a3, b1>b2>b3, and c1<c2<c3. Conclusions This study provides anatomic feasibility for percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal oblique fixation from posterior corner in lumbar spine and particularly provides anatomic basis for the design of new endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion cage.
Identification of an autophagy-related gene expression prognostic model in endometrial carcinoma patients
Authors: Jiang Pinping , Sun Wei , Shen Ningmei , Wang Qiang , Wang Shouyu , Fu Shilong
Published: May 2020

Background

Autophagy, as a lysosomal degradation pathway, has been reported to be involved in various pathologies, including cancer. However, the expression profiles of autophagy-related genes (ARGs) in endometrial cancer (EC) remain poorly understood.
Methods

In this study, we analyzed the expression of MRGs using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data to screen differentially expressed MRGs (DE-MRGs) significantly correlated to EC patients’ prognosis. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of DE-MRGs were investigated. LASSO algorithm and Cox regression analysis were performed to select MRGs closely related to EC patients’ outcomes. A prognostic signature was developed and the efficacy were validated in part of and the entire TCGA EC cohort. Moreover, we developed a comprehensive nomogram including the risk model and clinical features to predict EC patients' survival probability.
Results

Ninety-four ARGs significantly dysregulated in EC samples compared with the normal control samples. Functional enrichment analysis showed these differentially expressed ARGs (DE-ARGs) were highly enriched in apoptosis, P53 signaling pathway, and various cancer development. Among the 94 DE-ARGs, we subsequently screen out four-ARGs closely related to EC patients outcomes, which are ERBB2, PTEN, TP73 and ARSA. Based on the expression and coefficiency of 4 DE-ARGs, we developed a prognostic signature and further validated its efficacy in part of and the entire TCGA EC cohort. The four ARGs signature was independent of other clinical features, and was proved to effectively distinguish high- or low-risk EC patients and predicted patients' OS accurately. Moreover, the nomogram showed the excellent consistency between the prediction and actual observation in terms of patients' 3- and 5-year survival rates.
Conclusions

It was suggested that the ARG prognostic model and the comprehensive nomogram may guide the precise outcome prediction and rational therapy in clinical practice.
Hypertension patients infected with COVID- 19 undergo a longer period of negative conversion:A retrospective study
Authors: Xiao Bing , Fu Dou , Yang Wei , Zou Can , Zhang Bing , Li Xia , Zeng Jing , Li YuanFa , Chen Gong , Sha Junping
Published: May 2020

Purpose Previous studies have showed that age,sex and comorbidities might be associated with severity of patients infected with COVID-19 ,which endangers public health worldwide rapidly.The characteristics and length of negative conversion of Non-severe COVID-19 patients with or without hypertension is limited.This study aims to assess whether non-severe COVID-19 patients with hypertension undergone more longer period of negative conversion .Methods This single-center, retrospective study was performed in Xiantao first People’s Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University(xiantao, hubei,China) by using medical records.Non-severe COVID-19 patients with a history of hypertension From January 23 to February15 were enrolled as group A. A Control group(group B) was matched (1:1) according to age,sex and the admission date.Data on clinical records, laboratory results, and radiological tests was collected. we conducted all analyses with SPSS software(22.0).Results We enrolled 24 and 24 Non-severe COVID-19 patients with and without hypertension, respectively. The most common symptoms were fever and cough in both groups.The frequency of fatigue is more in patients with hypertension.The levels of AST,ALT and CRP were higher in group A.The mean periods of negative conversion for COVID-19 virus were 17 days(SD:5.5) and 15 days(SD:3.6)for patients with and without hypertension(P=0.021).The mean hospitalization periods were 16.8 days (SD:5.6) and 13.7 days (SD:3.8) , respectively (p=0.083) .Conclusion Non-severe COVID-19 patients with hypertension undergone a longer negative conversion for COVID-19 virus and spent more time on clearing COVID-19 virus.
Beagle dog 90-day oral toxicity study of a novel coccidiostat – ethanamizuril
Authors: Zhang Keyu , Wang Xiaoyang , Wei Shuya , Wang Chunmei , Wang Mi , Liu Yingchun , Zhang Lifang , Xue Feiqun , Tang Shusheng
Published: May 2020

Background: Ethanamizuril is a novel triazine compound that exhibits remarkable anticoccidial activity in poultry. Due to its pharmacological properties, this study was to evaluate the 90-day subchronic toxicity of feeding ethanamizuril fed to beagle dog. Methods: The subchronic toxicity study was conducted in beagle dogs administered ethanamizuril by diet at doses of 12, 60 or 300 mg/kg/day for 90 days, respectively. Results: Ethanamizuril was well tolerated at low and middle dosages and there were no test article-related effects on survival, clinical observations, clinical pathology parameters, organs weight, macroscopic or microscopic evaluations. Test article-related changes were limited to effects on food consumption and histologic changes of kidneys in the 300 mg/kg/day group in both genders. However, the characteristic toxicities of ethanamizuril are recoverable in kidneys. Conclusions: Therefore, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) was considered to be 60 mg/kg/day, the middle dosage level tested. These results add to the safety database for ethanamizuril with potential for use as a novel coccidiostat.
Bacillus subtilis spore vaccines displaying protective antigen induce functional antibodies and protective potency
Authors: Oh Yeonsu , Kim Jung Ae , Kim Chang-Hwan , Choi Soo-Keun , Pan Jae-Gu
Published: May 2020

Background: Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of anthrax, a disease of both humans and various animal species, and can be used as a bioterror agent. Effective vaccines are available, but those could benefit from improvements, including increasing the immunity duration, reducing the shot frequency and adverse reactions. In addition, more sophisticated antigen delivery and potentiation systems are urgently required. The protective antigen (PA), one of three major virulence factors associated with anthrax was displayed on the surface of Bacillus subtilis spores, which is a vaccine production host and delivery vector with several advantages such as a low production cost, straightforward administration as it is safe for human consumption and the particulate adjuvanticity. Mice were immunized orally (PO), intranasally (IN), sublingually (SL) or intraperitoneally (IP) with the PA displaying probiotic spore vaccine. Clinical observation, serological analysis and challenge experiment were conducted to investigate the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. Results: A/J mice immunized with the PA spore vaccine via PO, IN, SL, and IP were observed to have increased levels of active antibody titer, isotype profiles and toxin neutralizing antibody in sera, and IgA in saliva. The immunized mice were demonstrated to raise protective immunity against the challenge with lethal B. anthracis spores. Conclusions: In this study, we developed a B. subtilis spore vaccine that displays the PA on its surface and showed that the PA-displaying spore vaccine was able to confer active immunity to a murine model based on the results of antibody isotype titration, mucosal antibody identification, and a lethal challenge experiment.
Prevalence and abundance of selected genes conferring macrolide resistance genes in COPD patients during maintenance treatment with azithromycin
Authors: Talman Sander , Djamin Remco S. , Schrauwen Eefje J.A. , von Wintersdorff Christian J.H. , Wolffs Petra F. , Savelkoul Paul H.M. , Uzun Sevim , Kerstens René , Eerden Menno M. van der , Kluytmans Jan A.J.W.
Published: May 2020

ObjectivesMaintenance treatment with macrolide antibiotics has shown to be effective in reducing exacerbations in COPD patients. A major concern with prolonged treatment with antibiotics is the development of bacterial resistance. In this study we determined the effect of azithromycin on the development and acquisition of resistance to macrolides in the nasopharyngeal flora in COPD patients.MethodsThis study was part of the COLUMBUS trial, a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to measure the effect of maintenance treatment with azithromycin in 92 COPD patients on the exacerbation rates during a 12-month period. In order to determine resistance to macrolides, we used a targeted metagenomic approach to measure the presence and relative abundance of specific macrolide resistance genes ermB, ermF and mefA in throat samples collected at different time-points during this 12-month period.ResultsThere was no increased risk for acquisition of macrolide resistance genes in the azithromycin group compared to the placebo group in COPD patients. However, loss of the macrolide resistance gene ermB was increased overtime in the placebo treated group compared to the azithromycin group (n = 5 for the placebo group versus n = 0 for the azithromycin group at 12 months; p = 0.012). The change in relative abundance of the three macrolide-resistance genes showed that all but one (ermF) increased during treatment with azithromycin.ConclusionsThe acquisition rate of macrolide resistance genes in COPD patients treated with azithromycin maintenance therapy was limited, but the relative abundance of macrolide resistance genes increased significantly over time compared to placebo.This study was part of the COLUMBUS trial (Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT00985244),
Risk factors associated with renal crescentic formation in pediatric Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: SONG Yongrui , GUO Wanliang , SHENG Mao , LIN Qiang , ZHU Xueming , LI Xiao-Zhong
Published: May 2020

Background
The long-term prognosis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) depends on the severity of renal involvement, crescentic formation is considered to be an important risk factor for poor prognosis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN). The objective of this study was to evaluate factors affecting crescent formation in children with HSPN.
Methods
Demographic factors, clinical characteristics, and laboratory data of children with HSPN with or without crescents were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors of crescent formation in HSPN.
Results
A total of 191 children with HSPN were enrolled in the study. There were 107 (56%) males and 84 (44%) females, with a median age of 7 years (range: 2 years–15 years). International Study of Kidney Disease in Children (ISKDC) grading was used to divide subjects into two groups: those without glomerular crescent formation (ISKDC grades I–II, n = 146 cases) and those with glomerular crescentic formation (ISKDC grades III–V, n = 45 cases). Logistic regression analysis showed that higher urinary white blood cell (WBC) count (OR = 3.300; 95% CI, 1.119–9.739; P = 0.0306) and higher urinary microalbumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) (OR = 25.053; 95% CI, 1.354–463.708; P = 0.0305) were independent risk factors for the formation of crescents in HSPN. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of urinary WBC and ACR were 0.753 and 0.698 respectively, with the Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test (P = 0.0669, P > 0.05).
Conclusion
These results suggest that higher urinary WBC count and ACR should be strictly monitored for children with HSPN. Adequate clinical intervention for these risk factors may limit or prevent renal crescent formation.
The Role of Fever Clinic During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study of 1034 Febrile Patients
Authors: Tang Li , He Yanxia , Bai Fangjing , Luo Bin
Published: May 2020

Background Since winter of 2019, when coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) emerged in China and rapidly spread throughout the entire world, many fever clinics were rearranged and enlarged to triage febrile patients in China.Methods This study included fever clinic visits of Sichuan Provincial Peoples’ Hospital to summarize the characteristics of these febrile patients retrospectively.Results From 24th January to 31th March, 1034 fever clinic visits with 530 male and 504 female, were triaged, treated and recorded. About 64.9% of them were checked with body temperature higher than 37.3℃. Cough (25.0%) and sore throat (19.2%) were the most common symptoms in addition to fever. Chest CT scan was ordered for 900 patients, and 172 cases (16.6%) were found ground grass opacity, 134 (13.0%) found local patchy shadowing, and 26 (2.5%) found bilateral patchy shadowing. At last 851 patients (82.3%) were excluded for COVID-19 or other severe diseases. Eighty patients (7.7%) were admitted to hospitalization for other conditions. One hundred and three (9.9%) patients were suspected or confirmed of COVID-19 at fever clinic, and then admitted to isolation ward.Conclusions The result of this study again verified the extraordinary role of fever clinics in pandemics. When confronted with a mass of unknown febrile patients, a well organized fever clinic may avoid the frustration of all medical staffs.
Antifungal Effect of Thymus Vulgaris Essential Oil and Chlorhexidine on Candida Albicans Colonies Accumulated on Removable Orthodontic Appliances: A Double- blinded Clinical Trial.
Authors: khandani Arefe Kalantari , Baherimoghadam Tahereh , Naseri Navid , khandani Azade Kalantari , Nouripour-Sisakht Sadegh , Safaeian Roja
Published: May 2020

Objectives: To assess the efficacy of Thymus vulgaris (T. vulgaris) essential oil to decrease the count of Candida albicans (C. albicans) accumulated on removal orthodontic appliances.Methods: In this 2 arm parallel controlled clinical trial, Forty-four patients whose removable orthodontic appliances contaminated with C. albicans were randomly divided into two groups for use of T. vulgaris essential oil and 0.2% Chlorhexidine (CHX) by electronic random sampling. The C. albicans colony count was measured at baseline (T0) and at 2 (T1) and 5 (T2) days after the intervention. Microbial samples were collected by a sterile swab from 3 spots on the internal surface of orthodontic appliances. The Friedman test was used for within-group comparisons while the Mann Whitney test was applied to compare the efficacy of T. vulgaris essential oil and CHX.Results: No significant difference was noted in the efficacy of 2% T. vulgaris essential oil and 0.2% CHX in decreasing the C. albicans colony count on removable orthodontic appliances.Conclusion: T. vulgaris essential oil has favorable antimicrobial activity against C. albicans.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anemia Among Adolescent Girls and Boys at 10-14 Years in Rural Western China
Authors: Zhu Zhonghai , Sudfeld Christopher R. , Cheng Yue , Qi Qi , Li Shaoru , Elhoumed Mohamed , Yang Wenfang , Chang Suying , Dibley Michael J , Zeng Lingxia , Fawzi Wafaie W.
Published: May 2020

Background:Evidence on the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among young adolescentgirls and boys in rural western Chinais limited.Methods: We used data from a follow-up study of adolescents (10-14 years) born to women who participated in a randomized trial of antenatal micronutrient supplementation in western China. Anemia was defined by World Health Organization standards. Logistic regression was used to examine the riskfactors for anemia.Results: The overall prevalence of anemia was 11.7% (178/1517). Female adolescents were 1.73 (95% CI 1.21, 2.48) times more likely to have anemia as compared to males. Adolescents whose mothers had completed high school were 65% (95%CI 7%, 87%) less likely to be anemic, compared with those of whom had <3 years. Household wealth was also inversely associated with anemia. The association of puberty status with anemia was modified by adolescent sex (p-value for interaction was 0.04): males with greater than mild puberty development had 65% (95% CI 17%, 85%) reduced odds of anemia while there was no association among females (OR:0.72, 95% CI 0.29, 1.78). Consumption of flesh foods, eggs,and having a meal frequency of three times or more per day wereassociated with 42% (95% CI 11%, 62%), 40% (95% CI 7%, 62%) and 32% (95% CI 4%, 52%) reduced odds of anemia, respectively.Conclusions: Anemia is a public health problem among adolescents in rural western China. Nutritional and social determinants were identified as predictors, warranting interventions to reduce the risk of anemia among this critical age group.
Acute Generalized Peritonitis in a Peripheral Hospital Centre in Benin: Can It Be Managed by a Local General Practitioner?
Authors: TOBOME Semevo Romaric , HODONOU Adrien Montcho , WAHIDE Anifa , BOUKARI Kadiri Alassan , KPONOU Moïse , BANKOLE’ Christelle Hermione Elvire , CARONNA Roberto
Published: May 2020

Background: Acute generalized peritonitis is a highly lethal and unfortunately common disease in developing countries. Moreover, lack of specialists and their concentration in main towns, expose the patients to a high but avoidable risk of complications or death. We report the experience of a peripheral hospital in Benin not equipped with specialized surgeons.Methods: This is a descriptive study including patients operated for acute generalized peritonitis from March 1st 2018 to November 30th 2019 at the Atacora Departmental Hospital Centre, Benin. This hospital lacks a CT scan and an intensive care unit. Most of the surgical activity is performed by a General Practitioner with previous surgical training (but no surgical specialization). For the purpose of the study, we evaluated the following patients’ data: age, gender, cause of peritonitis, surgical procedures, postoperative outcome and hospital stay. Results: A total of 63 patients were selected, with a mean age of 23.2 yrs and a sex ratio of 1.5. The mean operative delay was 26 hours (range 6 - 92 hours). An ileal “typhic” perforation was found in 40 patients (63.5%) and 35 of them (87.5%) could benefit of primary repair without bowel resection. 73% of surgical procedures were performed by the general practitioner. Morbidity was 34.9%, mainly represented by surgical site infections. The overall mortality was 14.3%. The average postoperative hospital stay was 12 days (range 11 - 82 days). Patients operated by the General Practitioner were in line with the overall results (morbidity 32.6%, mortality 13.0% and average postoperative hospital stay 11 days, range 1 - 58 days). Conclusion: Acute generalized peritonitis requires urgent management and can be effectively carried out, in a limited resources context, by a general practitioner with surgical skills. The respect of hygiene rules, the availability of qualified human and structural resources as well as the effectiveness of the care costs coverage by the Government are essential to reduce the peritonitis burden in Benin.
Predictors of postoperative complication and prolonged intensive care unit stay after complete pericardiectomy in tuberculous constrictive pericarditis
Authors: Fang Likui , Yu Guocan , Huang Jinpeng , Zhao Wuchen , Ye Bo
Published: May 2020

Purpose
The risk factors of postoperative outcomes after pericardiectomy in tuberculous constrictive pericarditis have still been unclear. This study aimed to investigate the predictors of postoperative complication and prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay in the patients with tuberculous constrictive pericarditis undergoing pericardiectomy.
Methods
A total of 88 patients with tuberculous constrictive pericarditis undergoing pericardiectomy were retrospectively enrolled. Logistic regression and Cox regression analysis were performed to identify the predictors of postoperative complication and prolonged ICU stay, respectively.
Results
All patients underwent complete pericardiectomy and 35 (39.8%) had postoperative complications with no mortality within 30 days after surgery. Postoperative complication delayed postoperative ICU stay (P < 0.001), duration of chest drainage (P < 0.001) and postoperative hospital stay (P < 0.001). Preoperative NYHA functional class (P = 0.004, OR 4.051, 95%CI 1.558–10.533) and preoperative central venous pressure (CVP) (P = 0.031, OR 1.151, 95%CI 1.013–1.309) were independent risk factors of postoperative complication. Postoperative complication (P < 0.001, HR 4.132, 95%CI 2.217–7.692) was the independent risk factor for prolonged ICU stay.
Conclusion
Complete pericardiectomy was associated with high risk of postoperative complication in tuberculous constrictive pericarditis. Poor preoperative NYHA functional class and high preoperative CVP were shown to predict postoperative complication which was the predictor of prolonged ICU stay.
Good response to methotrexate is associated with a decrease in the gene expression of the drug transporter ABCG2 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Muto Satoshi , Minamitani Nana , Ogura Takehisa , Nakajima Arata , Nakagawa Koichi , Masaka Toru , Hiura Sumiko , Kobayashi Hideki , Kato Hiroyoshi , Kameda Hideto
Published: May 2020

Background Methotrexate (MTX) is an anchor drug in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We previously performed a cross-sectional, observational study and reported an association between the gene expression level of the drug transporter ABCG2/BCRP (breast cancer resistance protein) and RA disease control in patients receiving MTX. Methods We designed a prospective study in two medical centers in Japan to confirm the association of ABCG2 gene expression level with the clinical response to MTX in MTX-naive patients with RA. The primary endpoint of this study was good response based on the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) response criteria by Disease Activity Score using 28-joint count (DAS28). We evaluated the association between the baseline expression of six genes involved in the intracellular pharmacokinetics of MTX, including ABCG2, as well as their temporal changes, and the clinical response at week 12 from the initiation of MTX. Results Based on the clinical response at 12 weeks after the initiation of MTX, a total of 24 patients were classified into the good responders (n = 9) and non-good responders (n = 15; 10 moderate responders and 5 non-responders) groups. A univariate logistic regression analysis of baseline gene expression levels for the prediction of the EULAR good response at week 12 showed a significant association with ABCG2 alone, and the rate of baseline expression of ABCG2 mRNA above the cut-off value determined by a receiver operating characteristic curve was higher in good responders than in non-good responders (p = 0.012). Moreover, ABCG2 expression decreased in almost all good responders, but not in non-good responders, after MTX treatment for 12 weeks (median -76% versus +41% from baseline, respectively; p = 0.011). The ABCG2 gene expression level did not correlate with DAS28 at baseline or at week 12, and neither did the rate of change in ABCG2 gene expression level. Conclusions We have confirmed the association between the gene expression level of the drug transporter ABCG2 and the clinical response to MTX in patients with RA.
Unusual lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum and coronavirus infectious disease-19
Authors: Agarwal Nivedita , Martini Rosella , Pedrotti Giovanni , Sala Sabino Walter Della
Published: May 2020

Coronavirus infectious diseases (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease that has taken a strong grip on the entire global community. The diagnosis per se is straightforward; however, the disease seems to affect multiple organs. Cytokine-storm, increased thromboembolic state, deranged overall homeostasis and aggressive medical treatment can cause a variety of lesions in the central nervous system. Interpretation of brain imaging findings will require a thorough understanding of the clinical status of the patient and treatment being offered, keeping in mind the several ways in which the viral pathogen, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV2) may interact with brain tissue. We present differential diagnosis of a magnetic resonance imaging identified solitary lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum, in a COVID-19 positive patient with altered mental status.
Self-reported loss of smell and taste in SARS-CoV-2 patients: primary care data to guide future early detection strategies
Authors: Tudrej Benoit , Sebo Paul , Lourdaux Julie , Cuzin Clara , Floquet Martin , Haller Dagmar M , Maisonneuve Hubert
Published: May 2020

The early identification of new cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in primary care is of outmost importance in the current pandemia. We conducted a preliminary study involving 816 primary care patients undergoing RT-PCR testing for a suspicion of COVID-19. We examined the association between smell or taste disorders and a positive SARS-CoV-2 test, and computed the performance of these symptoms in predicting a positive test. Smell or taste disorders were significantly associated with positive RT-PCR with an adjusted OR=6.3 (95%CI 5.2-7.5). Once confinement measures are lifted, our data could further inform triage and early identification of new clusters of cases through primary care.
Model Based Approach for Estimating the Dosage Regimen of Indomethacin a Potential Antiviral Treatment of Patients Infected with SARS CoV-2
Authors: Gomeni Roberto , Xu Tianhong , Gao Xuejuan , Bressolle-Gomeni Françoise
Published: May 2020

To face SARS-CoV-2 pandemic various attempts are made to identify potential effective treatments by repurposing available drugs. Among them, indomethacin, an anti-inflammatory drug, was shown to have potent in-vitro antiviral properties on human SARS-CoV-1, canine CCoV, and more recently on human SARS-CoV-2 at low micromolar range. Our objective was to show that indomethacin could be considered as a promising candidate for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 and to provide criteria for comparing benefits of alternative dosage regimens using a model-based approach.A multi-stage model-based approach was developed to characterize % of recovery and viral load in CCoV-infected dogs, to estimate the PK of indomethacin in dog and human using published data after administration of immediate (IR) and sustained-release (SR) formulations, and to estimate the expected antiviral activity as a function of different assumptions on the effective exposure in human. Different dosage regimens were evaluated for IR formulation (25 mg and 50 mg three-times-a-day, and 25 mg four-times-a-day), and SR formulation (75 mg once and twice-a-day). The best performing dosing regimens were: 50 mg three-times-a-day for the IR formulation, and 75 mg twice-a-day for the SR formulation. The treatment with the SR formulation at the dose of 75 mg twice-a-day is expected to achieve a complete response in three days for the treatment in patients infected by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. These results suggest that indomethacin could be considered as a promising candidate for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 whose potential therapeutic effect needs to be further assessed in a prospective clinical trial.
Knowledge and perception of COVID-19 pandemic: Before-and-after online community survey.
Authors: Nazar Wojciech , Leszkowicz Julia , Pieńkowska Agata , Brzeziński Michał , Szlagatys-Sidorkiewicz Agnieszka , Plata-Nazar Katarzyna
Published: May 2020

Background COVID-19 pandemic impacts many communities worldwide. In this study the Poles' knowledge about COVID-19 as well as people’s behaviours, attitudes and fears during the pandemic were assessed. Changes in these between the outset of the pandemic and the imposition of the strictest lockdown measures in Poland were investigated.Methods Physicians, nurses, students of medicine-oriented faculties, non-medical professionals, students of non-medicine-oriented faculties and secondary school students were surveyed by an anonymous online questionnaire two times: at the onset of the pandemic and in the second week of the strictest lockdown. Statistical analyses were performed using non-parametric tests - Chi square Persons, Kruskal-Wallis tests.Results In total 2618 responses were collected. At the beginning people knew that the respiratory system was attacked (97.9%); correctly identified the major symptoms of COVID-19 (95.0%) and ways to prevent infection: hand washing (99.8%), covering mouth (85.9%) and the need to call sanitary-epidemiological services if one experienced COVID-19-like symptoms (92.1%). The biggest changes between the first and second phase of the study concerned behaviours: more people wearing facial masks (+37.5%) and staying at home (+66.1%). Respondents in the second wave of the survey were also more scared of the pandemic (+19.6%), economic crisis (+64.1%), and worried about their families (+26.5%). However, they were less afraid of the quarantine (lockdown) (-18.2%). Nurses and physicians were the most worried groups.Conclusions The study showed that even at the outset of the pandemic Polish population had a good initial knowledge about symptoms, transmission, and preventive behaviours regarding COVID-19. People revealed more short-term concerns, such as the worries about coping with quarantine and isolation. After a month, the knowledge and the concerns among the respondents changed. A shift towards long-term pandemic management issues was observed. Respondents reported to experience more fears concerning the pandemic in general, as well as economic and healthcare crises. Medical professionals reported higher level of fear of the pandemic than other groups included in this study. This study uses before-and-after approach which highlights the changes in people’s knowledge and perception of the COVID-19 pandemic during the pandemic’s progression.
The Effects of Storage on Platelet Proteome Assessed by Protein Expression Changes and Lysine Modification Changes Using Tmt Isobaric Labeling
Authors: Wang Li , Yan Kexiang , Fan Zhijia , Yang Jie , Liang Wei , Wu Qiang , Xie Rufeng , Ishii Momoko , Lu Yuan , Wang Zhicheng
Published: May 2020

Purpose:To provide the first insight into the proteomic dynamics during platelet storage.Experiment design: In this study, based on TMT-labeled LC-MS/MS analysis, combined with antibody-affinity enrichment and purification for acetylated and succinylated peptides, we performed quantification of global proteomics, acetylome and succinylome.Simultaneously, dynamic molecular changes and functional transformation of platelet were also characterized under proper conditions stored for 1, 3, 5, 7 days, respectively.Results:3,100 proteins are quantified from a total of 3,609 proteins identified from platelets. Out of 1,308 acetylated sites identified in 648 proteins, 790 sites in 396 proteinsare quantifiable. There are 1,947 succinylated sites in 959 proteins in which 1,279 sites in 661 proteins are quantifiable.We screened the differential expression changes of global proteins, acetyl- and succinyl- proteins, and systematically interpreted their molecular functions, biological processes, cellular components, pathways and motif characters to fully investigate the molecular dynamics and biological functions of platelets. Conclusions and clinical relevance:This paper is the first systematic exploration of proteomes and modified proteomes of platelet dynamics during storage in the aim to improve our understanding of platelet biology, which may be a valuable reference for further research and clinical application.