bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing VEGFB accelerates NAFLD and insulin resistance in mice via inhibiting AMPK signaling pathway
Authors: Li Rongrong , Li Yuqi , Yang Xueling , Hu Yaorui , Yu Haining , Li Yana
Published: July 2022

Objective

Vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGFB) was regarded to improve lipid metabolism and reduce obesity-related hyperlipidemia. Whether VEGFB participates in lipid metabolism in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been clear yet. This study investigated the involvement of VEGFB in lipid metabolism and insulin resistance via the AMPK signaling pathway in NAFLD.

Methods

We constructed the animal and cell model of NAFLD after VEGFB gene knockout to detect liver damage and metabolism in NAFLD. Bioinformatics analysis of VEGFB and the AMPK signaling pathway relative genes to verify the differential proteins. And mRNA levels of NAFLD fatty acid metabolism-related genes were detected.

Results

After the systemic VEGFB knockout mice were fed with high fat, the body fat, serum lipoprotein, NAFLD score, and insulin resistance were increased. Animal and cell experiments showed that the expression levels of phosphorylated proteins of CaMKK2 and AMPK decreased, the expression of proteins related to AMPK/ACC/CPT1 signaling pathway decreased, and the target genes CPT1α and Lcad decreased accordingly, reducing fatty acid oxidation in hepatocyte mitochondria; The expression of AMPK/SREBP1/Scd1 signaling pathway relative proteins increased, ACC1 and FAS increased correspondingly, which increased lipid synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum.

Conclusion

VEGFB can participate in lipid metabolism and insulin resistance of NAFLD through the AMPK signaling pathway.
Modulation of hepatic stellate cells by Mutaflor® probiotic in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease management
Authors: Hany Noha M. , Eissa Sanaa , Basyouni Manal , Hasanin Amany H. , Aboul-Ela Yasmin M. , Elmagd Nagwa M. Abo , Montasser Iman F. , Ali Mahmoud A. , Skipp Paul J. , Matboli Marwa
Published: July 2022

Background

NAFLD and NASH are emerging as primary causes of chronic liver disease, indicating a need for an effective treatment. Mutaflor® probiotic, a microbial treatment of interest, was effective in sustaining remission in ulcerative colitis patients.

Objective

To construct a genetic-epigenetic network linked to HSC signaling as a modulator of NAFLD/NASH pathogenesis, then assess the effects of Mutaflor® on this network.

Methods

First, in silico analysis was used to construct a genetic-epigenetic network linked to HSC signaling. Second, an investigation using rats, including HFHSD induced NASH and Mutaflor® treated animals, was designed. Experimental procedures included biochemical and histopathologic analysis of rat blood and liver samples. At the molecular level, the expression of genetic (FOXA2, TEAD2, and LATS2 mRNAs) and epigenetic (miR-650, RPARP AS-1 LncRNA) network was measured by real-time PCR. PCR results were validated with immunohistochemistry (α-SMA and LATS2). Target effector proteins, IL-6 and TGF-β, were estimated by ELISA.

Results

Mutaflor® administration minimized biochemical and histopathologic alterations caused by NAFLD/NASH. HSC activation and expression of profibrogenic IL-6 and TGF-β effector proteins were reduced via inhibition of hedgehog and hippo pathways. Pathways may have been inhibited through upregulation of RPARP AS-1 LncRNA which in turn downregulated the expression of miR-650, FOXA2 mRNA and TEAD2 mRNA and upregulated LATS2 mRNA expression.

Conclusion

Mutaflor® may slow the progression of NAFLD/NASH by modulating a genetic-epigenetic network linked to HSC signaling. The probiotic may be a useful modality for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD/NASH.
Latent classes of early response trajectories to biologics initiation in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: an analysis of four trials
Authors: Lim Lily Siok Hoon , Shobhan Shamsia , Lokku Armend , Ringold Sarah , Pullenayegum Eleanor
Published: July 2022

Aims

1) To delineate latent classes of treatment response to biologics in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients in the first 16 weeks after initiation. 2) To identify predictors of early disease response.

Methods

The study population was drawn from four biologics trials in polyarticular course JIA: Etanercept 2000, Abatacept 2008, TRial of Early Aggressive Therapy (TREAT) 2012 and Tocilizumab 2014. The outcome was active joint counts (AJC). Semiparametric latent class trajectory analysis was applied to identify latent classes of response to treatment; AJC was transformed for this modelling. We tested baseline disease and treatment characteristics for their abilities to predict class membership of response.

Results

There were 480 participants, 74% females. At baseline, 26% were rheumatoid factor positive. 67% were on methotrexate at enrollment. Three latent class solution provided the best fit. Baseline AJC was the sole best predictor of class membership. Participants classified by their highest membership probabilities into high baseline AJC (> 30) and slow response (26.5%), low baseline AJC (< 10), early and sustained response (29.7%), and moderate baseline AJC progressive response (43.8%). Participants were classified into the latent classes with a mean class membership posterior probability of 0.97. Those on methotrexate at baseline were less likely to belong to high baseline AJC class.

Conclusions

Three latent classes of responses were detectable in the first 16 weeks of biologics therapy. Those with the highest baseline AJC demonstrated very slow response in this window and were less likely to be on concomitant methotrexate.

Trials registration

TREAT 2012 (NCT NCT00443430) (Wallace et. al, Arthritis Rheum 64:2012–21, 2012), tocilizumab trial 2014 (NCT00988221), abatacept trial 2008 (NCT00095173). Etanercept 2000 from Amgen does not have a trial registration number.
Psychiatric emergencies during, after, and before the COVID-19 lockdown: what happened to our patients? A naturalistic observational study
Authors: Brandizzi Martina , Polselli Annalivia , Corigliano Valentina , Tamorri Stefano Maria , Venturini Paola , Azzoni Antonella , Grasso Silvia , Onofri Antonio , Pesce Salvatore , Romani Fiammetta , Polselli Gian Marco , Forte Alberto
Published: July 2022

Background

Despite concerns on mental health problems related to lockdowns, recent reports revealed a reduction in psychiatric admissions in Emergency Departments (ED) during the lockdown period compared with the previous year in several countries. Most of the existing studies focused on the first lockdown not considering the different phases of the COVID-19 crisis. The present study aimed to analyze differences in ED admission for psychiatric consultation during three different phases of the COVID-19 health crisis in Italy.

Methods

Information on ED admission for psychiatric consultations were retrospectively collected at the ED of the Santo Spirito Hospital in Rome (Italy), and compared between the three periods: the lockdown (March–June 2020) and the post-lockdown period (June 2020–June 2021) compared to the pre-lockdown (January 2019–March 2020). Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the risk of accessing ED for psychiatric consultation before, during, after the lockdown.

Results

Three thousand and eight hundred seventy-one ED psychiatric consultations were collected. A significant reduction of psychiatric consultations in ED during the lockdown period and the post-lockdown (H 762,45;p < 0.001) was documented. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that compared to pre-lockdown during the lockdown and post-lockdown patients were more likely to be men (RRR 1.52; 95% CI 1.10–2.12) and more often diagnosed with non-severe mental illnesses (nSMI) (relative risk ratio [RRR] 1.53, 95% CI 1.10–2.15; and 1.72, 95% CI 1.42–2.08); during the lockdown, patients were also more often diagnosed with alcohol/substance abuse (A&S) (RRR 1.70; 95% CI 1.10–2.65).

Conclusions

Several changes in the clinical characteristics of psychiatric consultations during and after the lockdown emerged from the present study; nSMI and A&S abuse patients were more likely to present at the ED in the lockdown and post-lockdown periods while SMI patients appeared to be less likely. These may inform clinicians and future preventive strategies among community mental health services.
An integrated isotopic labeling and freeze sampling apparatus (ILSA) to support sampling leaf metabolomics at a centi-second scale
Authors: Tang Qiming , Song Qingfeng , Ni Xiaoxiang , Shi Zai , Chen Genyun , Zhu Xinguang
Published: July 2022

Background

Photosynthesis close interacts with respiration and nitrogen assimilation, which determine the photosynthetic efficiency of a leaf. Accurately quantifying the metabolic fluxes in photosynthesis, respiration and nitrogen assimilation benefit the design of photosynthetic efficiency improvement. To accurately estimate metabolic fluxes, time-series data including leaf metabolism and isotopic abundance changes should be collected under precisely controlled environments. But for isotopic labelled leaves under defined environments the, time cost of manually sampling usually longer than the turnover time of several intermediates in photosynthetic metabolism. In this case, the metabolic or physiological status of leaf sample would change during the sampling, and the accuracy of metabolomics data could be compromised.

Results

Here we developed an integrated isotopic labeling and freeze sampling apparatus (ILSA), which could finish freeze sampling automatically in 0.05 s. ILSA can not only be used for sampling of photosynthetic metabolism measurement, but also suit for leaf isotopic labeling experiments under controlled environments ([CO2] and light). Combined with HPLC–MS/MS as the metabolic measurement method, we demonstrated: (1) how pool-size of photosynthetic metabolites change in dark-accumulated rice leaf, and (2) variation in photosynthetic metabolic flux between rice and Arabidopsis thaliana.

Conclusions

The development of ILSA supports the photosynthetic research on metabolism and metabolic flux analysis and provides a new tool for the study of leaf physiology.
Nationwide implementation of a multifaceted tailored strategy to improve uptake of standardized structured reporting in pathology: an effect and process evaluation
Authors: Swillens Julie E. M. , Voorham Quirinus J. M. , Akkermans Reinier P. , Nagtegaal Iris D. , Hermens Rosella P. M. G.
Published: July 2022

Background

Implementation strategies are aimed at improving guideline adherence. Both effect and process evaluations are conducted to provide insights into the success or failure of these strategies. In our study, we evaluate the nationwide implementation of standardized structured reporting (SSR) in pathology.

Methods

An interrupted time series analysis was conducted to evaluate the effect of a previously developed implementation strategy, which consisted of various digitally available elements, on SSR in pathology laboratories. A segmented regression analysis was performed to analyze the change in mean SSR percentages directly after the strategy introduction for pathology reporting and specific subcategories. In addition, we analyzed the change in trend in the weekly percentages after strategy introduction, also for subgroups of tumor groups, retrieval methods, and type of laboratory. The change in SSR use after the strategy introduction was determined for all pathology laboratories. We further conducted a process evaluation in which the exposure to the strategy elements was determined. Experiences of the users with all strategy elements and the remaining barriers and potential strategy elements were evaluated through an eSurvey. We also tested whether exposure to a specific element and a combination of elements resulted in a higher uptake of SSR after strategy introduction.

Results

There was a significant increase in an average use of SSR after the strategy introduction for reporting of gastrointestinal (p=.018) and urological (p=.003) oncological diagnoses. A significant increase was present for all oncological resections as a group (p=.007). Thirty-three out of 42 pathology laboratories increased SSR use after the strategy introduction. The “Feedback button”, an option within the templates for SSR to provide feedback to the provider and one of the elements of the implementation strategy, was most frequently used by the SSR users, and effectiveness results showed that it increased average SSR use after the strategy introduction. Barriers were still present for SSR implementation.

Conclusions

Nationwide SSR implementation improved for specific tumor groups and retrieval methods. The next step will be to further improve the use of SSR and, simultaneously, to further develop potential benefits of high SSR use, focusing on re-using discrete pathology data. In this way, we can facilitate proper treatment decisions in oncology.
Automated measurement of alpha angle on 3D-magnetic resonance imaging in femoroacetabular impingement hips: a pilot study
Authors: Ewertowski Nastassja Pamela , Schleich Christoph , Abrar Daniel Benjamin , Hosalkar Harish S. , Bittersohl Bernd
Published: July 2022

Background

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome is an established pre-osteoarthritic condition. Diagnosis is based on both clinical and radiographic parameters. An abnormal manually calculated alpha angle in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is traditionally utilized to diagnose abnormal femoral head-neck offset. This pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility of automated alpha angle measurements in patients with FAI syndrome, and to compare automated with manual measurements data with regard to the time and effort needed in each method.

Methods

Alpha angles were measured with manual and automated techniques, using postprocessing software in nineteen hip MRIs of FAI syndrome patients. Two observers conducted manual measurements. Intra- and inter-observer reproducibility and correlation of manual and automated alpha angle measurements were calculated using intra-class correlation (ICC) analysis. Both techniques were compared regarding the time taken (in minutes) and effort required, measured as the amount of mouse button presses performed.

Results

The first observer’s intra-observer reproducibility was good (ICC 0.77; p < 0.001) while the second observer’s was good-to-excellent (ICC 0.93; p < 0.001). Inter-observer reproducibility between both observers in the first (ICC 0.45; p < 0.001) and second (ICC 0.56; p < 0.001) manual alpha angle assessment was moderate. The intra-class correlation coefficients between manual and automated alpha angle measurements were ICC = 0.24 (p = 0.052; observer 1, 1st measurement), ICC = 0.32 (p = 0.015; observer 1, 2nd measurement), ICC = 0.50 (p < 0.001; observer 2, 1st measurement), and ICC = 0.45 (p < 0.001; observer 2, 2nd measurement). Average runtime for automatic processing of the image data for the automated assessment was 16.6 ± 1.9 min. Automatic alpha angle measurements took longer (time difference: 14.6 ± 3.9 min; p < 0.001) but required less effort (difference in button presses: 231 ± 23; p < 0.001). While the automatic processing is running, the user can perform other tasks.

Conclusions

This pilot study demonstrates that objective and reliable automated alpha angle measurement of MRIs in FAI syndrome hips is feasible.

Trial registrationThe Ethics Committee of the University of Düsseldorf approved our study (Registry-ID: 2017084398).
Integrated strategy of network analysis prediction and experimental validation to elucidate the possible mechanism of compound Turkish gall ointment in treating eczema
Authors: Ma Xuan , Hao Meng , Zhang Ming Hui , Zeng Ya , Yang Qing Qing , Zhao Lu , Fan Chen Yang , Ji Zhi Hong , Li Ke Ao , Li Zhi Jian , Maimaiti Mirzat , Nie Ji Hong
Published: July 2022

Background

Compound Turkish gall ointment (CTGO) has a long history of being widely used as a folk medicine in Xinjiang for the treatment of eczema. CTGO is currently in the pre-investigational new drug application stage, but its pharmacological mechanisms of action have not yet been clarified.

Methods

First, a sensitive and reliable ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-Q exactive hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap high-resolution accurate mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS) technique was established. Second, an integrative strategy of network analysis and molecular docking based on identified and retrieved ingredients was implemented to investigate the potential targets and pathways involved in the treatment of eczema with CTGO. Finally, Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats with eczema were prepared to verify the predicted results. The skin conditions of the rats were observed, evaluated, and scored. Skin tissues were observed by hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining, and the levels of serum interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression levels of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor kappa-B p65 (NF-κB p65), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results

A total of 29 compounds were identified. We found 38 active components and 58 targets for the treatment of eczema, which included 118 signaling pathways related to inflammation, immunity, and apoptosis. CTGO significantly improved the skin surface and histopathological characteristics of eczema-affected rats, downregulated the expression of IL-4, TLR4, NF-κB (p65), IL-1β, and TNF-α, and upregulated the expression level of IFN-γ.

Conclusion

We predicted and validated our prediction that CTGO may be used to treat eczema by affecting the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, which provides guidance for future experimental studies.
Frontier progress of the combination of modern medicine and traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wei Lai , Wang Zeyu , Jing Niancai , Lu Yi , Yang Jili , Xiao Hongyu , Guo Huanyu , Sun Shoukun , Li Mingjing , Zhao Daqing , Li Xiangyan , Qi Wenxiu , Zhang Yue
Published: July 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, accounting for 90% of primary liver cancer) was the sixth most common cancer in the world and the third leading cause of cancer death in 2020. The number of new HCC patients in China accounted for nearly half of that in the world. HCC was of occult and complex onset, with poor prognosis. Clinically, at least 15% of patients with HCC had strong side effects of interventional therapy (IT) and have poor sensitivity to chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as a multi-target adjuvant therapy, had been shown to play an active anti-tumor role in many previous studies. This review systematically summarized the role of TCM combined with clinically commonly used drugs for the treatment of HCC (including mitomycin C, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, sorafenib, etc.) in the past basic research, and summarized the efficacy of TCM combined with surgery, IT and conventional therapy (CT) in clinical research. It was found that TCM, as an adjuvant treatment, played many roles in the treatment of HCC, including enhancing the tumor inhibition, reducing toxic and side effects, improving chemosensitivity and prolonging survival time of patients. This review summarized the advantages of integrated traditional Chinese and modern medicine in the treatment of HCC and provides a theoretical basis for clinical research.
Burden of phenylketonuria in Latin American patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Pessoa A. L. S. , Martins A. M. , Ribeiro E. M. , Specola N. , Chiesa A. , Vilela D. , Jurecki E. , Mesojedovas D. , Schwartz I. V. D.
Published: July 2022

Background

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism caused by a deficiency of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase. If untreated, the complications of PKU lead to significant neucognitive and neuropsychiatric impairments, placing a burden on both the individual’s quality of life and on the healthcare system. We conducted a systematic literature review to characterize the impact of PKU on affected individuals and on healthcare resources in Latin American (LATAM) countries.

Methods

Searches of the global medical literature as well as regional and local medical literature up to September 2021. Observational studies on patients with PKU from any LATAM country. Pairs of reviewers independently screened eligible articles, extracted data from included studies, and assessed their risk of bias.

Results

79 unique studies (47 cross-sectional studies, 18 case series, 12 case reports, and two cohort studies) with a total of 4090 patients were eligible. Of these studies, 20 had data available evaluating early-diagnosed PKU patients for meta-analysis of burden outcomes. Intellectual disability in the pooled studies was 18% [95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.04–0.38; I2 = 83.7%, p = 0.0133; two studies; n = 114]. Motor delay was 15% [95% CI 0.04–0.30; I2 = 74.5%, p = 0.0083; four studies; n = 132]. Speech deficit was 35% [95% CI 0.08–0.68; I2 = 93.9%, p < 0.0001; five studies; n = 162].

Conclusions

There is currently evidence of high clinical burden in PKU patients in LATAM countries. Recognition that there are many unmet neuropsychological needs and socioeconomic challenges faced in the LATAM countries is the first step in planning cost-effective interventions.
“Shoulder pain and limitation of motion in a young girl: think different”
Authors: Trevisan Matteo , Di Lenarda Luca , Pastore Serena , Saccari Alessia , Canton Gianluca , Lucangelo Umberto , Taddio Andrea , Murena Luigi
Published: July 2022

Background

Primary Synovial Chondromatosis (PSC) is a rare benign tumor of the synovial membrane in which cartilage metaplasia produces calcific loose bodies within the articular space. Only a few cases are reported in the pediatric population and its etiology remains unknown. This condition typically affects large weight-bearing joints with pain, swelling and decrease range of motion. Due to its slow progressions, delayed diagnosis is frequent and differential diagnosis should consider other chronic arthritis and malignancies. While arthroscopic removal of loose bodies is the current treatment up to now, the association of partial or complete synovectomy is debated.

Case presentation

We report about a 14-year-old girl with a long-lasting right shoulder pain, especially during movements or exercise, localized tenderness and hypotonia of the glenohumeral joint. No previous trauma was mentioned. Blood exams, Mantoux test and plain radiography of the right shoulder were unremarkable. Ultrasound imaging revealed echogenic and calcified bodies stretching the glenohumeral joint and dislocating the long head of biceps tendon. Magnetic resonance showed a “rice-grain” pattern of the right shoulder. From an arthroscopic surgery, multiple loose white bodies were removed within the synovial membrane, and synovial chondromatosis was confirmed by histological analysis. At one month follow up visit, the patient completely recovered without pain.

Conclusion

Synovial chondromatosis is a very uncommon cause of mono articular pain in children, especially when it affects shoulder. Pediatricians should keep in mind this condition to avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment, even in consideration of the low risk of malignant transformation. Through this case, we would highlight common diagnostic pitfalls and treatment of synovial chondromatosis.
Effectiveness of acupuncture at acupoint BL1 (Jingming) in comparison with artificial tears for moderate to severe dry eye disease: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Xue , Zhang Bo , Peng Siyang , Zhang Guoliang , Ma Jumei , Zhu Wenzeng
Published: July 2022

Background

The global incidence of dry eye disease (DED) is very high. DED seriously affects the quality of life of patients; however, the current curative effect of medicine for moderate to severe DED is poor. This randomized clinical trial was planned to investigate the effect of acupuncture compared with artificial tears (AT) on moderate to severe DED.

Methods

A randomized clinical trial was performed at 2 hospitals in China. 120 DED patients were randomly equally divided into an acupuncture and an artificial tear group. Either acupuncture or artificial tears was performed for an 8-week period, and a 24-week follow-up was performed. The primary outcome measure was the Schirmer-I test (SIT) change from baseline. The secondary outcome measures included the numerical rating scale (NRS) change from baseline for improvement in ocular symptoms, the ocular surface disease index (OSDI), the tear-film break-up time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), and acupuncture acceptability. Adverse events also were monitored and documented.

Results

For the primary outcome, the mean changes from baseline in the SIT values were significantly different between the acupuncture (5.75 [2.53–9.75]) and AT (0.52 [− 1.18–2.46]) groups at week 8 with a between difference of 5.23 (P< 0.05). Between-group differences of 8.49 in OSDI score change from baseline differed significantly at week 8 (P < 0.05). However, between-group differences of the changes in the average symptom NRS score, TBUT, and CFS did not differ significantly at week 8. Five cases experienced acupuncture-related adverse events.

Conclusions

This randomized clinical trial found that acupuncture at BL1 significantly promoted tear secretion. Acupuncture showed greater benefits than AT for moderate to severe DED. However, the study findings warrant verification.

Trial registration

Registration number: ChiCTR1800015831. Name of trial registry: Efficacy and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of moderate to severe dry eye disease: a randomized controlled trial. Registered on 23 April 2018 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/).
Short-term aerobic exercise for depression in acute geriatric psychiatry: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Schulte Laura Elani , Fleiner Tim , Trumpf Rieke , Wirtz Daria , Schnorr Thiemo , Zijlstra Wiebren , Haussermann Peter
Published: July 2022

Background

Major depression is one of the main mental illnesses in old age, with acute exacerbated episodes requiring treatment in geriatric psychiatry. A meta-analysis showed that aerobic exercise in moderate intensity has large effects in older adults with major depression, but there is no evidence of aerobic exercise in geriatric psychiatry. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the feasibility and effects of an ergometer-based aerobic exercise on depressive symptoms.

Methods

A single-center randomized controlled trial will be conducted in an acute geriatric psychiatric hospital. Inpatients allocated to the intervention group will receive a 2-week aerobic ergometer program. The control group will receive seated flexibility exercise in addition to usual care. The overall effects on the patients’ depressive symptoms will be measured by clinical global impression of change (CGI) as the primary outcome. Changes in depressive symptom domains, physical (in)activity, and aerobic performance as well as the dosage of applied antidepressants will be examined as secondary outcomes.

Discussion

This short-term aerobic exercise program is expected to decrease depressive symptoms in acute exacerbated periods in older adults. The results may increase the evidence for implementing physical activity interventions in acute hospital settings. The disease-related motivation for exercise in acute exacerbated depressive periods will be the most challenging aspect. The treatment of depression requires new cost-effective approaches, especially in acute geriatric psychiatry with potential benefits for patients, family members, and clinicians.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trial Register ID: DRKS00026117

Trial status

Protocol Version 1.2 dated February 23, 2022. By February 23, 2022, the trial had recruited a total of 15 participants in two wards at the Department of Geriatric Psychiatry at the LVR-Hospital Cologne. Recruitment started on November 12, 2021. The recruitment is expected to continue for at least 12 months.
Compost preparation, chemical analyses and users’ perception in the utilization of water hyacinth, Ethiopia
Authors: Tibebe Dessie , Jembere Kehali , Kidie Addisu , Adugna Marelign , Alem Teferi , Teshome Gizachew
Published: July 2022

Lake Tana is the largest freshwater body in Ethiopia. Currently, the lake has been facing alarming environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity due to the invasion of water hyacinth. Although the weed is invasive, it can be converted into various benefits. Hence, this study was conducted in North Eastern Lake Tana, Sheha Gomengie Kebele. The main objective is compost preparation in terms of its drying periods, analyses, and user perception. Physicochemical and nutrient analyses were performed according to the standard procedures. Acid digestion was used for heavy metal analyses. From the result, the pH measurements ranged from 7.619 ± 0.195 to 7.719 ± 0.261, and the moisture content ranged from 38.712 ± 0.680 to 49.60 ± 9.06%. The mean electrical conductivity (EC) values of all treatments of matured compost ranged from 2.780 ± 0.542 to 3.51 ± 0.971 ds/m. The TN values of the matured compost ranged from 0.420 ± 0.379 to 0.754 ± 0.194 on a dry weight basis. The overall mean values of the C:N ratio for all the treatments were 11.60 which is within an acceptable range. A high amount of available P concentrations was observed in all compost treatments which ranged from 2.740 ± 0.190 to 2.940 ± 1.410 g/kg. Moreover, the concentrations of heavy metals in all treatments were below the permissible limit of different agencies and there was also no significant difference in the mean values of analysis of variance at (P < 0.05). Therefore, the prepared compost can be recommended for better agricultural purposes. Considering users’ understanding of compost preparation as an opportunity, converting WH into compost is promising in terms of its rich supply and the possibility of preparing in the dry season where labor is abundant. Therefore, it can be one way of sustainably reducing WH adverse effects on the Lakeshore.
Intratunical injection of rat-derived bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells prevents fibrosis and is associated with increased Smad7 expression in a rat model of Peyronie’s disease
Authors: Wang Wenting , Ding Weifang , Zhang Xuebao , Wu Shuang , Yu Tianxi , Cui Xin , Xie Yaqi , Yang Diandong , Lin Chunhua
Published: July 2022

Objective

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a fibrotic disorder of the penis, but effective treatments are lacking. Here, we observed the effects of rat-derived bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) injection in the active phase and chronic phase in a rat model of PD, and the possible mechanism was analysed with fibroblasts derived from rat penile tunica albuginea (TA).

Methods

Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. In sham group, the rats were injected with 50 µL of vehicle. In the PD group, the rats were injected with 50 µg TGF-β1. In the PD + BMSCs early treatment group, the rats were injected with 50 µg TGF-β1 and injected with 1 × 106 BMSCs after 1 day. In the PD + BMSCs late treatment group, the rats were injected with 50 µg TGF-β1 and injected with 1 × 106 BMSCs after 28 days. Twenty-seven days after the last injection, the erectile function of the rats was measured, and then, penile fibrosis was analysed by histology and western blot. In vitro, fibroblasts derived from rat penile TA were used to identify a possible antifibrotic mechanism of BMSCs, and a Smad7 expression vector was used as a positive control. Fibroblasts were pretreated with the Smad7 expression vector or BMSCs for 48 h and then activated with 10 ng/mL TGF-β1 for 24 h. Cells viability was assessed, and Smad7, collagen 3, elastase-2B and osteopontin expression levels were analysed by immunofluorescence and western blot. Furthermore, fibroblasts were transfected with Smad7 siRNA or scramble control to observe whether the effects of BMSCs could be offset.

Results

Erectile function obviously improved, and fibrosis of penile TA was prevented after BMSCs treatment compared with that in the rats with PD. Furthermore, the effects of BMSCs treatment in the active phase were better than those in the chronic phase. After cocultured with BMSCs, cell viability was not affected, Smad7 expression was upregulated, and collagen 3, elastase-2B and osteopontin levels were decreased in the TGF-β1-treated fibroblasts. After transfection with Smad7 siRNA, the antifibrotic effects of BMSCs were offset.

Conclusions

The antifibrotic effects of BMSCs treatment in the active phase of the PD rat model were better than those in the chronic phase. A possible mechanism of BMSCs treatment was related to increased Smad7 expression, suggesting a possible effective and safe procedure for the treatment of PD.
Paper 2: Performing rapid reviews
Authors: King Valerie J. , Stevens Adrienne , Nussbaumer-Streit Barbara , Kamel Chris , Garritty Chantelle
Published: July 2022

Background

Health policy-makers must often make decisions in compressed time frames and with limited resources. Hence, rapid reviews have become a pragmatic alternative to comprehensive systematic reviews. However, it is important that rapid review methods remain rigorous to support good policy development and decisions. There is currently little evidence about which streamlined steps in a rapid review are less likely to introduce unacceptable levels of uncertainty while still producing a product that remains useful to policy-makers.

Methods

This paper summarizes current research describing commonly used methods and practices that are used to conduct rapid reviews and presents key considerations and options to guide methodological choices for a rapid review.

Results

The most important step for a rapid review is for an experienced research team to have early and ongoing engagement with the people who have requested the review. A clear research protocol, derived from a needs assessment conducted with the requester, serves to focus the review, defines the scope of the rapid review, and guides all subsequent steps. Common recommendations for rapid review methods include tailoring the literature search in terms of databases, dates, and languages. Researchers can consider using a staged search to locate high-quality systematic reviews and then subsequently published primary studies. The approaches used for study screening and selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment should be tailored to the topic, researcher experience, and available resources. Many rapid reviews use a single reviewer for study selection, risk-of-bias assessment, or data abstraction, sometimes with partial or full verification by a second reviewer. Rapid reviews usually use a descriptive synthesis method rather than quantitative meta-analysis. Use of brief report templates and standardized production methods helps to speed final report publication.

Conclusions

Researchers conducting rapid reviews need to make transparent methodological choices, informed by stakeholder input, to ensure that rapid reviews meet their intended purpose. Transparency is critical because it is unclear how or how much streamlined methods can bias the conclusions of reviews. There are not yet internationally accepted standards for conducting or reporting rapid reviews. Thus, this article proposes interim guidance for researchers who are increasingly employing these methods.
Paper 1: Demand-driven rapid reviews for health policy and systems decision-making: lessons from Lebanon, Ethiopia, and South Africa on researchers and policymakers’ experiences
Authors: Mijumbi-Deve Rhona M. , Kawooya Ismael , Kayongo Edward , Izizinga Rose , Mamuye Hadis , Amog Krystle , Langlois Etienne V.
Published: July 2022

Background

Rapid reviews have emerged as an approach to provide contextualized evidence in a timely and efficient manner. Three rapid review centers were established in Ethiopia, Lebanon, and South Africa through the Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization, to stimulate demand, engage policymakers, and produce rapid reviews to support health policy and systems decision-making. This study aimed to assess the experiences of researchers and policymakers engaged in producing and using rapid reviews for health systems strengthening and decisions towards universal health coverage (UHC).

Methods

Using a case study approach with qualitative research methods, experienced researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with respondents from each center (n = 16). The topics covered included the process and experience of establishing the centers, stimulating demand for rapid reviews, collaborating between researchers and policymakers, and disseminating and using rapid reviews for health policies and interventions and the potential for sustaining and institutionalizing the services. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Major themes interacted and contributed to shape the experiences of stakeholders of the rapid review centers, including the following: organizational structural arrangements of the centers, management of their processes as input factors, and the rapid reviews as the immediate policy-relevant outputs. The engagement process and the rapid review products contributed to a final theme of impact of the rapid review centers in relation to the uptake of evidence for policy and systems decision-making.

Conclusions

The experiences of policymakers and researchers of the rapid review centers determined the uptake of evidence. The findings of this study can inform policymakers, health system managers, and researchers on best practices for demanding, developing and using rapid reviews to support decision- and policymaking, and implementing the universal healthcare coverage agenda.
Approximate solutions for set optimization with an order cone that has nonempty quasirelative interiors
Authors: Zhao Pengxu , Xu Yihong , Huang Bin
Published: July 2022

In a real normed linear space, when the quasirelative interior is not empty, a class of order relation is introduced with Minkowski difference. Two classes of nonlinear functions are introduced, and their properties are discussed. A class of approximately efficient solutions and approximate weakly efficient solutions are introduced for set optimization. With nonlinear functions, optimality conditions are established for approximate solutions. Some examples are given to illustrate our main results.
Depression and its associated factors among prisoners in East Gojjam Zone prisons, Northwest Ethiopia: a multi-centered cross-sectional study
Authors: Tiruneh Tesfahun , Amha Haile , Sintayehu Bitew Mezinew , Tafere Yilkal
Published: July 2022

Background

Little is known about the prevalence and risk factors for depression in this vulnerable population around the world, including Ethiopia. Furthermore, information on the health of inmates is limited. The study sought to assess the prevalence and associated factors for depression among prisoners in the East Gojjam Zone of Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in East Gojjam Zone prisons. Data were gathered from 462 eligible prisoners who were chosen using a computer-generated simple random sampling technique. The patient health questionnaire nine was used to assess an individual's depression level. The information was entered into Epi-Data Version 4.2 and exported to STATA Version 14.1 for further analysis. Variables with a P < 0.05 in the multivariable binary logistics regression were considered significant.

Results

In this study the prevalence of depression among prisoners was 50.43% (95% CI 46–55%). Having work inside prison (AOR 0.6, CI 0.37–0.96), have no history of mental illness (AOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.16–0.85), had monthly income greater than 1500 birr (AOR 0.16, CI 0.05–0.5), Not thinking about the life after prison (AOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.27–0.64), and Prisoners who are sentenced for more than 5 years (AOR 2.2, CI 1.2–4), were significantly associated with depression.

Conclusions

According to this study, half of the prisoners in East Gojjam Zone prisons had depressive symptoms. Prisons should place a greater emphasis on the mental health of prisoners who have been sentenced for a long time, those who have a history of mental illness, and those who have no work in the prison.
Epigenetics may characterize asymptomatic COVID-19 infection
Authors: Arnold Cosby G. , Konigsberg Iain , Adams Jason Y. , Sharma Sunita , Aggarwal Neil , Hopkinson Andrew , Vest Alexis , Campbell Monica , Boorgula Meher , Yang Ivana , Gignoux Christopher , Barnes Kathleen C. , Monte Andrew A.
Published: July 2022

RT-PCR is the foremost clinical test for diagnosis of COVID-19. Unfortunately, PCR-based testing has limitations and may not result in a positive test early in the course of infection before symptoms develop. Enveloped RNA viruses, such as coronaviruses, alter peripheral blood methylation and DNA methylation signatures may characterize asymptomatic versus symptomatic infection. We used Illumina’s Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip array to profile peripheral blood samples from 164 patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR, of whom 8 had no symptoms. Epigenome-wide association analysis identified 10 methylation sites associated with infection and a quantile–quantile plot showed little inflation. These preliminary results suggest that differences in methylation patterns may distinguish asymptomatic from symptomatic infection.
Estimating and comparing the duration of adolescent growth peak in skeletal class I and III subjects using cervical vertebral maturation method
Authors: Naderi Mohammad H. , Biria Mina , Shahbazi Soheil , Kousha Sina , Dalaie Kazem , Behnaz Mohammad
Published: July 2022

Background

Estimating skeletal maturation and growth potential is essential for developing adolescents' best orthodontic treatment plan. The purpose of this study was to compare the duration of adolescent growth peak in subjects of skeletal classes I and III using the cervical vertebral maturation (CVM) method.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study included 116 Iranian subjects (skeletal class I = 68, skeletal class III = 48) aged 8–16 years old and without previous orthodontic treatments. Using Steiner and Wits analyses, two independent examiners traced pre-treatment lateral cephalograms to determine the subjects' skeletal relationship. The skeletal maturation was then assessed using Baccetti's CVM method. The onset and duration of adolescent growth peak (interval of CS3–CS4) were compared between two skeletal classes and two genders using independent samples t test.

Results

In skeletal class I and III subjects, the adolescent peak had a mean duration of 1.62 (± 1.33) and 2.00 (± 1.27) years, respectively. The average difference of 0.38 years (4.6 months) between the two groups was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the onset age of adolescent growth peak was 11.91 (± 1.32) and 12.08 (± 1.31) years old in class I and III subjects, respectively. This age difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.630). Males’ adolescent growth peak occurred 1.44 years later (p < 0.001) and lasted 0.20 years less (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The adolescent growth peak started at a similar age in class I and III subjects, but the latter experienced the peak for 4.6 months longer. Moreover, females had an earlier and more extended adolescent growth peak.
Pharmacotherapy consideration of thrombolytic medications in COVID-19-associated ARDS
Authors: Amini Shahideh , Rezabakhsh Aysa , Hashemi Javad , Saghafi Fatemeh , Azizi Hossein , Sureda Antoni , Habtemariam Solomon , Khayat Kashani Hamid Reza , Hesari Zahra , Sahebnasagh Adeleh
Published: July 2022

Background

In late 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which is responsible for coronavirus disease (COVID-19), was identified as the new pathogen to lead pneumonia in Wuhan, China, which has spread all over the world and developed into a pandemic. Despite the over 1 year of pandemic, due to the lack of an effective treatment plan, the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19 remains high. Efforts are underway to find the optimal management for this viral disease.

Main body

SARS-CoV-2 could simultaneously affect multiple organs with variable degrees of severity, from mild to critical disease. Overproduction of pro-inflammatory mediators, exacerbated cellular and humoral immune responses, and coagulopathy such as Pulmonary Intravascular Coagulopathy (PIC) contributes to cell injuries. Considering the pathophysiology of the disease and multiple microthrombi developments in COVID-19, thrombolytic medications seem to play a role in the management of the disease. Beyond the anticoagulation, the exact role of thrombolytic medications in the management of patients with COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is not explicit. This review focuses on current progress in underlying mechanisms of COVID-19-associated pulmonary intravascular coagulopathy, the historical use of thrombolytic drugs in the management of ARDS, and pharmacotherapy considerations of thrombolytic therapy, their possible benefits, and pitfalls in COVID-19-associated ARDS.

Conclusions

Inhaled or intravenous administration of thrombolytics appears to be a salvage therapy for severe ARDS associated with COVID-19 by prompt attenuation of lung injury. Considering the pathogenesis of COVID-19-related ARDS and mechanism of action of thrombolytic agents, thrombolytics appear attractive options in stable patients without contraindications.