bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cervical curvature changes following laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation: Does it relate with spinal cord shift and clinical efficacy
Authors: Hou Shu-bing , Sun Xian-ze , Liu Feng-yu , Gong Rui , Zhao Zheng-qi , Lu Kuan , Liu Yan-bing
Published: April 2020

Background

Laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation (LCSF) is an effective operation type for the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), however, the cervical curvature loss is often observed in some patients after operation. Will the cervical curvature change affect the spinal cord drift distance and the decompression effect? The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different cervical curvature on spinal cord drift distance and clinical efficacy.
Methods

A total of 78 cases of CSM patients underwent LCSF were included in this retrospective study. The cervical curvature was measured according to the Bordon method 6 months after the operation, and the patients were divided into two groups. Group A: 42 cases with reduced cervical curvature (0 < the cervical lordosis depth < 7 mm) and group B: 36 cases with normal cervical curvature (7 mm ≤ the cervical lordosis depth ≤ 17 mm). The spinal cord drift distance, laminectomy width, neurological functional recovery, axial symptom (AS) severity and the occurrence of C5 palsy in both groups were observed.
Results

The cervical lordosis depth was (5.1 ± 1.2) mm in group A and (12.3 ± 2.4) mm in group B (P < 0.05). The laminectomy width was (21.5 ± 2.6) mm in group A and (21.9 ± 2.8) mm in group B (P > 0.05). The spinal cord drift distance was (1.9 ± 0.4) mm in group A and (2.6 ± 0.7) mm in group B, with statistically significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05). The postoperative JOA scores in both groups were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference in the neurological recovery rate (61.5% vs 62.7%) between the two groups (P > 0.05). According to the grading standard of AS, the severity of AS in group A was significantly higher than that in group B (P < 0.05). Three cases (7.1%) of C5 palsy occurred in group A and 4 cases (11.1%) occurred in group B (P > 0.05).
Conclusion

After LCSF, more than half of the patients had cervical curvature loss. The smaller of the cervical curvature was, the shorter distance the spinal cord drifted backward. The loss of cervical curvature was related to the severity of axial symptoms, rather than the improvement of neurological function and C5 palsy.
Clinical features of imported cases of coronavirus disease 2019 in Tibetan patients in the Plateau area
Authors: lei Yu , huang xiaobo , bamu silang , lan yunping , lu jianli , zeng fan
Published: April 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has rapidly spread throughout China, but the clinical characteristics of Tibetan patients living in the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau are unknown. We aimed to investigate the epidemiological, clinical, laboratory and radiological characteristics of these patients. Methods: We included 67 Tibetan patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of clinical symptoms at admission, with 31 and 36 patients in the symptomatic and asymptomatic groups, respectively. The epidemiological, clinical, laboratory and radiological characteristics were extracted and analysed. Results: No patient had a history of exposure to COVID-19 patients from Wuhan or had travelled to Wuhan. The mean age of Tibetan patients was 39.3 years and 59% of the patients were male. Seven patients presented with fever on admission and lymphocytopenia was present in 20 patients. 47 patients had abnormal chest CTs at admission instead of stating that 20 were unchanged. Lactate dehydrogenase levels were increased in 31 patients. Seven patients progressed to severe COVID-19; however, after treatment, their condition was stable. No patients died. Of the 36 asymptomatic patients, the mean age was younger than the symptomatic group (34.4 ± 17.3vs 44.9 ± 18.1 years, P = 0.02). Lymphocyte count and prealbumin levels were higher in the asymptomatic group than the group with clinical symptoms (1.6 ± 0.5 vs 1.3 ± 0.6 and 241.8 ± 68.2 vs 191.9 ± 60.3, respectively; P < 0.05). Conclusions: Imported cases of COVID-19 in Tibetan patients were generally mild in this high-altitude area. Absence of fever or radiologic abnormalities on initial presentation were common.
Genome-wide association analysis uncovers candidate genes for forage quality traits in Brassica napus stems
Authors: wei lijuan , Liu Ruiying , Xu Wen , Zhu Yan , Ma Jinqi , Lin Ai , Li Jiana
Published: April 2020

Background

Brassica napus (rapeseed) is an important oilseed crop and its leaves and stems can also be used as animal feed. Lignocellulose content is closely related to the nutritional quality and palatability of animal feed. However, quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) contents in rapeseed stems have not yet been mapped.
Results

In this study, we used 494 B. napus accessions to perform genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of ADF and NDF contents. Ninety-two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and 35 simple-sequence repeat (SSR) loci were significantly correlated with ADF and NDF contents, respectively, and six genetic loci associated with ADF and NDF contents were detected using both types of markers. We identified three candidate genes on chromosome A05 related to ADF content, including genes encoding chitinase-like protein 2 (CTL2) and two trichome birefringence-like 41 s (TBL41s). Seven genes on chromosomes A03 and A04 were related to NDF content, including genes encoding glycosyl hydrolase (GH), reversibly glycosylated polypeptide 1 (RGP), irregular xylem 12 (IRX12), trichome birefringence-like 34 (TBL34), galacturonosyltransferase 7 (GAUT7), cytokinesis defective 1 (CYT1), and LOB domain-containing protein 15 (LBD15). These candidate genes encode factors that likely participate in secondary cell wall formation and lignocellulose biosynthesis.
Conclusions

These findings lay the foundation for identifying genes related to forage quality traits and improving the efficiency of forage utilization in rapeseed, which will be beneficial for breeding new varieties for high-quality forage with low lignocellulose content.
A study on mental health status among the staff in a designated hospital for COVID- 19
Authors: Wang Bangfang , Sun Jianjun , Gao Feng , Chen Jun , Shi Lei , Li Lanying , Tang Yongjun , Wang Kun , Lu Hongzhou
Published: April 2020

Background: We investigate the mental health status of all the staff members who worked for the designated hospital during the initial stage of COVID-19, so as to understand the severity of mental health problems, and analyze the risk factors.Methods: Through the patients health questionnaire-9(PHQ-9) and panic disorder severity scales(PDSS), we surveyed the status of depression and panic disorder of the staff who participated in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 in designated hospital in the early stage of epidemic. The data is described by the number of cases (percentage), median and interquartile range. The chi square test was used for categorical variables and the rank sum test was used for continuous variables. The risk factors of severe depression or panic disorder were analyzed by binary logistic regression test.Results: Totally 702 questionnaires were sent out and 694(98.9%) was received and qualified, the median score of PHQ-9 among all the staff was 1 (IQR,0-4), 143(20.6%) of them had depression, 39 (5.6%) had serious depression; the median score of PDSS was 2 (IQR,0-5), 81 (11.7%) of them had panic disorder and 47(6.7%) of them had severe panic disorder; Among the people in different work lines, the first-line staff scored the highest: PHQ-9 score was 4 (0-8); PDSS score was 4 (1-9), which were significantly higher than the second-line and third-line staff (P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the adjusted risk of severe depression in first-line staff was 6.63 fold(P < 0.001); the risk of severe panic disorder was 2.62 fold (P=0.003) higher than that of non-first line group.Conclusions: Many staff in the designated hospital for COVID-19 have mental health problems. Among them, first-line workers are a high-risk group with severe depression and panic disorder, and further psychological intervention is needed for them.
Downregulation of S100A2 alleviates pulmonary fibrosis through inhibiting wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Huang Guichuan , Zhang Jing , Qing Gang , Liu Daishun , Wang Xin , Chen Yi , Li Yishi , Guo Shuliang
Published: April 2020

Background：Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive and lethal disease with poor prognosis. S100A2 plays an important role in the progression of cancer. However, the role of S100A2 in PF has not been reported yet. In this study, we explored the potential role of S100A2 in PF and its potential molecular mechanisms. Methods: First, we analyzed S100A2 expression of patients with PF by retrieving RNA-sequencing datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Next, we detected the expression of S100A2 in patients with PF using quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR). Then, S100A2 expression was determined with or without the treatment of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in A549 cells. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) biomarkers, including E-cadherin，vimentin, and α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), were identified using qRT-PCR and western blot. Finally, the relevant signalling pathway indicators were detected by western blot. Results: Increased expression of S100A2 was first observed in lung tissues of PF patients. Meanwhile, we found that downregulation of S100A2 inhibited the TGF-β1-induced EMT in A549 cells. Mechanically, TGF-β1 up-regulated β-catenin and phosphorylation of GSK-3β, which was blocked by silencing S100A2 in vitro. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that downregulation of S100A2 alleviate pulmonary fibrosis via inhibiting EMT. S100A2 is a promising potential target for further understanding the mechanism and developing strategy for the treatment of PF and other EMT-associated disease.
Relationship between the Functional Oral Intake Scale and Self-efficacy Scale among Patients with Cancer: A Cross-sectional study
Authors: Matsuda Yuhei , Karino Masaaki , Kanno Takahiro
Published: April 2020

Background: A few studies suggest that self-efficacy pertaining to swallowing ability can lead to dysphagia. Therefore, this cross-sectional study verified the relationship between oral health-related self-efficacy and dysphagia severity during cancer treatment. Methods: Participants included patients undergoing treatment for cancer at Shimane University Hospital, Shimane, Japan, and those receiving outpatient treatment at the hospital’s Oral Care Center between August 2018 and April 2019. In all, 203 participants enrolled in the study and completed the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS), Self-efficacy Scale for Advanced Cancer (SEAC), and Oral Health-related Self-Efficacy Scale for Patients with Cancer (OSEC). Results: A multivariate analysis showed a statistically significant correlation between the low FOIS score category and the SEAC subscales of Activities of Daily Living Self-efficacy (ADE) (odds ratio 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.07) and Symptom Coping Self-efficacy (SCE) (odds ratio 0.61, 95% [CI] 0.42–0.88). Based on the Jonckheere-Terpstra test, the SEAC and OSEC scores tended to increase as the FOIS category progressed. Conclusion: These findings suggest that self-efficacy played an important role in dysphagia and it may affect the severity of dysphagia.
Role of noninvasive methods for assessing stable non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis
Authors: Chen Feng-jia , Lin Geng-peng , Yi Hui , Huang Xin-yan , Liu Yang-li , Xie Can-mao , Guo Yu-biao , Luo Yi-feng
Published: April 2020

Background: Bronchiectasis is characterized by the abnormal dilation of lung airways. Only some patients with bronchiectasis may clinically benefit from the treatment recommended in the guidelines of the European Respiratory Society. The value of noninvasive methods for assessing the clinical phenotypes of stable-state non-cystic ﬁbrosis (non-CF) bronchiectasis for treatable characteristics has not been adequately studied.Methods: Eighty-nine patients with stable non-CF bronchiectasis were retrospectively enrolled. Patient characteristics, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) values, and the results of blood tests for inflammatory markers, pulmonary function test, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and bronchial hyper-responsiveness test or bronchodilator reversibility test were obtained. These data were used to assess the factors associated with the clinical phenotype of bronchiectasis.Results: The majority of the patients were female (60.67%) and have an average age of 59.08±15.09 years old. The predicted percentages of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and the ratio of FEV1 and forced vital capacity were 56.17%±23.16% and 65.58%±15.26%, respectively. Eighteen (20.22%) of the patients with bronchiectasis had emphysema. The presence of emphysema in bronchiectasis was associated with a high airflow obstruction level. Seventeen (10.10%) of the patients with bronchiectasis had asthma. FeNO was signiﬁcantly higher in the group of patients with bronchiectasis and asthma than in the other two groups (p < 0.01). The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of the bronchiectasis alone group was higher than those of the other two groups. Signiﬁcant negative correlations were found between ERS and FeNO levels (p = 0.02, r = −0.338), between HRCT score and FeNO levels (p = 0.04, r = −0.229), and between FEV1 (% predicted) and HRCT scores (p = 0.0007, r = −0.3629). A signiﬁcant positive correlation was found between ERS and HRCT scores (p = 0.0001, r = 6326).Conclusion: A remarkable proportion of patients with bronchiectasis have emphysema or asthma. Biomarkers, such as FeNO, and conventional lung function tests should be routinely used for phenotyping bronchiectasis for potential targeted therapy. ESR can be used as a biomarker to reflect the level of systemic inﬂammation and the severity of bronchiectasis. These approaches will provide a better understanding of patients with bronchiectasis and their clinical phenotypes and lead to a more individualized and effective therapy.
Sleep Disturbance and Associated Factors among Adult People Living with HIV/AIDS at Dessie Referral Hospital Antiretroviral therapy clinic, Northeast, Ethiopia
Authors: Degu Fatuma , Birhanu Yeneabat , Azagew Abere
Published: April 2020

Background

Sleep disturbance is the leading health problem in the era of HIV/AIDS. The exact cause of sleep disturbance was not well known, but it is related to HIV itself, antiretroviral drugs side effect, and other HIV related disorders. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of sleep disturbance and associated factors among adult people living with HIV/AIDS.
Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 419 study participants participated in the study. A systematic random sampling method was employed. An interviewer-administered a method of data collection with a chart review was used. Pittsburg Sleep Quality of Index for assessing sleep disturbance was used. A binary logistic regression was conducted. The variables having a p-value < 0.05 with 95% CI were used to declare an association.
Results

The prevalence of sleep disturbance was 36% (95% CI: 31–41%). The study revealed that being female (AOR = 3.45, 95% CI: 1.52–7.79), viral loads ≥ 1000 copies /ml (AOR = 6.88, 95% CI: 2.79–16.9), CD4 cell count < 200 cells/mm3 (AOR = 6.85, 95% CI: 2.42–19.39), WHO stage II and III(AOR = 4.29, 95%CI: 1.05–17.53), having anxiety (AOR = 10,95% CI: 4.21–23.9), having depression (AOR = 4.4, 95% CI: 1.95–10.1), having not a separated bedroom (AOR = 3.94, 95% CI: 1.86–8.36), and living alone (AOR = 6, 95% CI: 2.81–13.12) were found to be factors associated with sleep disturbance.
Conclusion

In this study, more than one - thirds of the study participants were developed sleep disturbance. Being female, low CD4 cell counts, viral load ≥ 1000copies/ml, WHO stage II and III, having depression and anxiety, living alone, and have not a separate bedroom have increased the experience of sleep disturbance.
Prevalence of psychiatric disorders among patients with Multiple Sclerosis: a cross-sectional study.
Authors: Błachut Michał , Szczegielniak Anna Rebeka , Świerzy Krzysztof , Tarska Magdalena Zając- , Kubicka-Bączyk Katarzyna , Sowa Monika Adamczyk- , Gorczyca Piotr
Published: April 2020

Background: Multiple Sclerosis is one of the leading autoimmune disorders causing disability among young adults. Various types of mood, affect, and behaviour disorders along with cognitive impairment can be manifested in a course of MS, with affective and anxiety disorders being the most prevalent. Mental health challenges, in addition to the neurological burden of MS, significantly affect quality of life and the course of the underlying disease. Objective: The aim of this work was to determine the prevalence of mental disorders in a sample of MS patients during outpatient treatment in Zabrze, Poland, with a focus on those with mood and anxiety disorders, and to compare the results obtained in these groups with clinical and sociodemographic data. Method: The study was conducted between 2017 and 2018 on 103 MS patients of the Neurological Outpatient Clinic of the Medical University of Silesia Hospital No.1 in Zabrze, Poland. During the study, sociodemographic data were collected, as well as the type and course of the underlying disease, comorbidities, and medicines used. The MINI-international neuropsychiatric interview and a psychiatric examination were utilized to assess the occurrence of mental disorders. Result: 68% of all patients received a psychiatric diagnosis at some point in their life with only 4% having been hospitalized before; 49.5% met the diagnostic criteria for various psychiatric disorders. Measured by the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview, 33% of patients reported a past episode of major depression while 8.7% met the criteria for a current episode. The same number of patients admitted ongoing treatment due to recurrent depressive disorder. In regards to anxiety disorders, the most common was generalized anxiety disorder (10.7%), followed by agoraphobia (8.7%), panic disorder (7.8%), and social phobia (4.9%). Most of the patients (94.2%) at the time of the psychiatric evaluation presented a low level of suicide risk, while 1.9% of the patients presented a medium risk, and 3.9% - a high risk. Conclusion(s): The study confirmed a significantly higher prevalence of mental disorders among MS patients; thus, the psychiatric state of patients in this group should be investigated systematically, simultaneously with the assessment of their neurological state. Trial registration: N/A Key words: Multiple Sclerosis, psychiatric disorders, comorbidity, psychiatric care, clinical characteristics.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on gynecological oncology care: Glimpse into Association of Gynecological Oncologists of India (AGOI) perspective
Authors: Bhandoria Geetu , TS Shylasree , Bhandarkar Prashant , Ahuja Vijay , Maheshwari Amita , Sekhon Rupinder , SP Somashekhar
Published: April 2020

Purpose: The notorious COVID 19 pandemic has caused rapid and drastic changes in cancer care all over the world in 2020. This online survey aims to assess the extent to which the pandemic has affected cancer care in gynecological oncology amongst members of Association of Gynecological Oncologists of India (AGOI), a registered professional society, founded in 1991. Methods: We developed and administered a cross-sectional, flash survey to members of The Association of Gynecological Oncologists of India (AGOI) in the first week of April 2020. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel 2016. Results were expressed as percentages of total responses excluding blank or unattended response. Overall theme-specific responses were expressed as a spectrum of finding and related inferences were drawn.Results: Among approached practitioners, 90 responded to the survey, more than 80 % were practicing consultants and more than 50 % from academic institutions. Results of the survey showed that the ongoing pandemic had severely affected gynecological oncology practice and care amongst all responders. There were modifications in diagnostic pathways, interventions and follow ups across all organ sites. There was near unanimous opinion on use of general safety measures to combat the virus and to use complete PPEs in high risk situation. There was mixed responses to alternative educational activities especially using electronic technology and distant learning methods. There was an optimism among responders with regards to the current situation normalizing in 3 to 6 months. Conclusion: This study documents the pandemic affected scenario of gynecological cancer care and perceptions of Gynecological Oncologists in India. Significant effect on all aspects of cancer care were observed. Technological learning methods both for patient care and educational activities were being adopted by many responders. Keywords: COVID-19, pandemic, gynecological oncology care, survey, AGOI
Automated custom-fitted 3D-printed masks using free software and face scans
Authors: Sammut Edward J , Yeap Yin Chien , Yeap Jonathan Quan-Hui , Mendonca Gustavo , Cortes Arthur Rodriguez Gonzalez
Published: April 2020

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic a global shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) made necessary the development of techniques to rapidly design and adapt filtering masks for local manufacturing using 3D printed methods to help protect healthcare workers. Several Standard Tessellation Language (STL) files of 3D-printed masks have become available in the internet and some models have got approval from regulatory organisations such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This technical report aimed at describing a straightforward methodology for custom-fitting 3D-printed filtering masks to 3D face scans using free software. This article presents modifications of an open-source add-on program (My Face Mask, Wasp, Massa Lombarda, Italy) developed for a free computer aided-design (CAD) software (Blender 2.82, Amsterdam, Netherlands) to design a 3D-printed face mask with polylactic acid (PLA) filament, for P3 filters (99.95% filtration of airborne particles) from face scan STL files. Preliminary results demonstrated that a dental clinician was able to digitally design and 3D-print a mask that provided satisfactory comfort and adaptation. The use of online application for a face scan and an open source software can be used to custom fit a 3D-printed mask to on individuals face.
Ardisia japonica inhibits airway remodeling in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in rats through inhibiting Wnt signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Yi , Zhou Xun , Zhang Jun , Li Bo , Wang Xinxing , Luo Xian , Ge Zhenghang
Published: April 2020

Background The effects of Ardisia japonica (AJ) on airway remodeling in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) rats, and the mechanisms have not been verified. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a Miao medicine, AJ on airway remodeling in COPD rats, and to assess the mechanisms.Methods COPD model was produced by cigarette smoke and intratracheal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The experiments were divided into a normal group, a COPD group, different doses of AJ treatment groups and a positive control group. After treatments, matrix metalloprotein (MMP)-9, platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels in inferior lobes of the right lung tissues were detected by ELISA. Expression of Wnt signaling pathway was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. To verify the function of Wnt signaling pathway in airway remodeling, airway fibroblasts obtained from COPD rats were treated with Wnt signaling pathway agonists. The cell proliferation, apoptosis, and MMP-9, PDGF, TGF-β1 levels were determined.Results The pathological changes of COPD were confirmed by haematoxylin eosin (H&E) staining. MMP-9, PDGF and TGF-β1 levels were promoted in COPD rats, which were significantly reduced by different doses of AJ treatment. Importantly, components of Wnt signaling pathway, including Wnt5a, β-catenin and RhoA were up-regulated in COPD model, which were also significantly reduced by treatment with different doses of AJ. The airway fibroblasts were obtained from COPD rats and verified based on vimentin expression. Wnt signaling pathway agonists, lithium chloride (Licl), 4-Ethyl-5,6-Dihydro-5-methyl-[1, 3] dioxolo[4,5-j] phenanthridine (HLY78), TPA and epidermal growth factor (EGF) promoted cell proliferation, reduced apoptosis, and promoted MMP-9, PDGF and TGF-β1 levels.Conclusions Our data implicated that AJ could prevent airway remodeling in COPD rats, likely via depressing Wnt signaling pathway.
Circulating Cytokine Profiles of Polyparasitized Individuals in Gabon.
Authors: M'Bondoukwé Noé Patrick , Moutongo Reinne , Gbédandé Komi , Ngomo Jacques Mari Ndong , Hountohotegbe Tatiana , Adamou Rafiou , Lengongo Jeanne Vanessa Koumba , Pambou Kowir , Mawili-Mboumba Denise Patricia , Luty Adrian John Frederick , Bouyou-Akotet Marielle Karine
Published: April 2020

Background Malaria, blood-borne filarial worms and intestinal parasites are all endemic in Gabon. This geographical co-distribution leads to polyparasitism and, consequently, the possibility of immune-mediated interactions between different parasite species. Intestinal protozoa and helminths could modulate anti-malarial immunity, for example, thereby potentially increasing susceptibility to malaria.Methods Blood and stool samples were collected during cross-sectional surveys in five provinces of Gabon. Parasitological diagnosis was performed to detect plasmodial parasites, Loa loa and Mansonella perstans, intestinal helminths (STH) and protozoan parasites. Nested PCR was used to detect submicroscopic plasmodial infection in individuals with negative blood smears. Cytometric Bead Array was used to quantify interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α in plasma of subjects with different parasitological profiles i.e. malaria only, filariasis only, intestinal protozoan only, soil-transmitted helminths (STH) only, malaria/filariasis, malaria/STH, malaria/intestinal protozoa co-infections and in uninfected individuals/control group.Results Median IL-6 (124.5 [36.9–433.9] pg/mL) and IL-10 (224.5 [78.0–657.9] pg/mL) levels and the median IL-10/TNF-α (69.9 [12.5–140-7]) ratio were all significantly higher among individuals with Plasmodium falciparum infection compared to other groups (p < 0.0001). The median TNF-α level (6.5 [3.5–11.7] pg/mL) and IL-10/IL-6 ratio (3.6 [2.0–11.9]) were higher in subjects with STH (p = 0.09) and P. falciparum-intestinal protozoa co-infection (p = 0.04), respectively. IL-6 (rho=-0.37; p < 0.01) and IL-10 (rho=-0.37; p < 0.01) levels, and the IL-10/TNF-α ratio (rho=-0.36; p < 0.01) correlated negatively with age, independently of infectious status. Among children under five years old, the IL-10/TNF-α and IL-10/IL-6 ratios were higher in those with intestinal protozoan infections compared to uninfected children. The IL-10/TNF-α ratio was also higher in children aged 5–15 years and in adults harbouring blood-borne filariae compared to their control counterparts, whereas the IL-10/IL-6 ratio was lower in those aged 5–15 years with filariae and intestinal parasites but higher in adults with intestinal parasitic infections.Conclusions Asymptomatic malaria is associated with a strong polarization towards a regulatory immune response, reflected by high circulating levels of IL-10. Co-infections with P. falciparum and intestinal protozoa are associated with an enhanced IL-10 response. Immunity against malaria could differ according to age and carriage of other parasites.
Lipopolysaccharide-induced premature cervical ripening and inflammation in pregnant mice can be alleviated by nicotine
Authors: Han Xinjia , Ding Wen , Lin Baohua , Chen Juanhua , Zhang Tiansong , Lai Yumian , Yang Jinying
Published: April 2020

Background

Clinical treatment of preterm birth (PTB) is usually dependent on inhibiting uterine contractions. Such therapy is only effective in the short-term and cannot fundamentally low the incidence of PTB. Premature cervical maturation is another important cause of PTB; it is associated with invasion of macrophages, which produce proinflammatory cytokines. We previously found that activation of the alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) by nicotine alleviates the systemic inflammatory response in murine models of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PTB, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
Methods

Cervical tissues were collected from women in preterm and term labor. An animal model of PTB was established by administering 25 µg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to normal pregnant C57BL/6 mice on gestational day 16 (GD16). PTB animals received 1 mg/kg of α7nAChR agonist nicotine or nicotine combined with 1 µg/kg α7nAChR antagonist α-bungarotoxin (α-BGT) from GD14 to GD17. The gestational age, the rates of preterm birth and the survival rate of pups were recorded. Immunofluorescence staining were utilized for the quantification of α7nAChR expression on cervical macrophages and changes in macrophage polarization, RT-PCR was used to determine the mRNA levels of M1 and M2 macrophage biomarkers. Elisa assay was used to detect changes in fetal inflammation. Immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were used to investigate the signaling pathways underlying nicotine’s promoting LPS-induced conversion of M1 macrophage to M2 in the cervix of PTB animals.
Results

α7nAChR expression on cervical macrophages and cervical collagen content was decreased in PTB patients and murine models of LPS-induced PTB. The number of M1 cervical macrophages, other pro-inflammatory mediators in the cervix and fetal inflammation was unregulated in pregnant mice following LPS administration. Nicotine treatment reduced the rate of PTB, decreased fetal inflammation, improved maternal and neonatal outcome; nicotine also increased polarization of cervical macrophages toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype possibly by suppressing activation of the MAP kinases JNK and ERK1/2 and nuclear translocation of NF-κB and rescuing the inhibited JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT pathways. The effects of nicotine were reversed by the selective α7nAChR antagonist α-bungarotoxin (α-BGT).
Conclusions

Our findings indicate that nicotine prevents LPS-induced cervical ripening and inflammatory response by inducing M2 macrophage polarization, and nicotine may serve as potential anti-premature cervical maturation agents for treatment of PTB.
Nintedanib inhibits the development and progression of peritoneal fibrosis
Authors: Liu Feng , Yu Chao , Qin Huan , Zhang Shenglei , Fang Lu , Wang Yi , Wang Jun , Cui Binbin , Hu Susie , Liu Na , Zhuang Shougang
Published: April 2020

Background

Nintedanib, an FDA approved triple tyrosine kinase inhibitor, exhibits an antifibrotic effect in idiopathic pulmonary and renal fibrosis. Its effect on peritoneal fibrosis remains unexplored.
Methods

The present study investigated the effect of nintedanib on the development and progression of peritoneal fibrosis by administration fo nintedanib immediately after peritoneal injury or starting at day 21 of the injury in a in a mouse model of chlorhexidine gluconate-induced peritoneal fibrosis. Peritoneal fibrosis and associated mechanisms were examined by immunohistochemistry and immunoblot analysis.
Results

Administration of nintedanib immediately after peritoneal injury attenuated peritoneal fibrosis, whereas delayed administration of nintedanib not only halted the progression of peritoneal fibrosis, but also in part reversed the established fibrosis. Mechanistically studies showed that nintedanib inhibited injury-induced mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, expression of several cytokines/chemokines, vascularization and infiltration of macrophages to the injured peritoneum. Nintedanib also blocked phosphorylation of platelet derived growth factor receptor, fibroblast growth factor receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, and Src, downregulated expression of Snail and Twist, two transcription factors and inactivated several signaling pathways associated with peritoneal fibrosis, including Smad3, signal transducer and Activator of transcription 3, and nuclear factor-κB. Moreover, late treatment with nintedanib promoted expression of matrix metallopeptidase 2 and reduced expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 in the injured peritoneum. Finally, nintedanib abrogated transforming growth factor β1–induced mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and phosphorylation of aforementioned signaling molecules in cultured human peritoneal mesothelial cells.
Conclusions

These results suggest that nintedanib may inhibit peritoneal fibrosis development and progression by blocking mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, inflammation, and angiogenesis, and partially reversed established peritoneal fibrosis through metalloproteinases-mediated extracellular matrix degradation. Therefore, nintedanib holds therapeutic potential for the prevention and treatment of peritoneal fibrosis.
Experimental design of a culture approach for corneal endothelial cells
Authors: Montalvo-Parra Maria Dolores , Vidal-Paredes Isaac Alejandro , Calzada-Rodriguez Cesar E. , Cárdenas-Rodríguez Italia Tatnaí , Guerrero Guiomar Farid Torres , Elizondo Daniela Gomez , Martínez Mariana Lopez , Zavala Judith , Valdez-García Jorge E.
Published: April 2020

Background

The harvesting of corneal endothelial cells (CECs) has received special attention given its potential as therapy for corneal blindness. The main challenges to overcome for this purpose are related to the culture media formulation, cellular density at the primary isolation, and the number of passages in which CECs can retain their functional characteristics. The alternance of different media formulations to harvest CECs has an impact on the cellular yield and morphology. We herein analyzed eight different sequences of growth factor-supplemented proliferative (P) and non-supplemented resting (R) media upon passages to find the optimal P/R culture media sequence in regards of cell yield, morphology, procollagen I production, ATPase function, and the expression of ZO-1 and ATPase.
Results

PRPR and PRRR sequences showed the higher cell yield and hexagonal morphology rate. CECs cultured in the PRRR sequence produced procollagen I, showed Na/K-ATPase function, and expression of ZO-1 and Na/K-ATPase by immunocytochemistry. Our study sets a culture approach to guarantee CECs expansion, as well as functionality for their potential use in tissue engineering and in vivo analyses.
Conclusions

Alternation of P and R culture media improves CECs culture. PRRR sequence demonstrated to be effective and for CECs proliferation lowering the cost implied in PRPR sequences. We discarded the use of pituitary extract and ROCK inhibitors as essential for CECs proliferation.
WITHDRAWN: Contribution of microRNA-30d to the prevention of the thyroid cancer progression: mechanism and implications
Authors: Shao Yuan , Zhang Shaoqiang , Wang Xiaoxia , Sun Xin , Wu Jie , Sui Fang , Yang Fangli , Dai Hao , Liu Junsong , Yao XiaoBao , Li Honghui , Liu Lifeng , Wang Xuan , Zheng Zhiwei , Xu Chongwen
Published: April 2020

Background
Thyroid cancer is a major endocrine tumor and represents an emerging health problem worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been addressed to be associated with the pathogenesis and progression of thyroid cancer. However, it remains largely unknown what functions miR-30d may exert on thyroid cancer. This study herein aimed to identify the functional significance and mechanism of miR-30d in the progression of thyroid cancer.
Methods
The expression of miR-30d and ubiquitin-specific protease 22 (USP22) in cancerous tissues of patients with thyroid cancer was measured using RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis. In response to the gain- or loss-of-function of miR-30d and USP22, cell apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry and TUNEL staining in combination with the measurement of apoptosis-related proteins. The interactions among miR-30d, USP22, SIRT1, FOXO3a and PUMA were explored using a series of assays, including dual-luciferase reporter gene assay, Co-IP and ChIP assay. The effects of miR-30d and USP22 on thyroid tumorigenesis were finally validated in vivo.
Results
MiR-30b presented aberrant low expression in thyroid cancer tissues and this low expression correlated with poor prognosis of thyroid cancer patients. miR-30d promoted apoptosis of thyroid cancer cells through targeting USP22, an up-regulated gene in thyroid cancer. USP22 could enhance the stability of SIRT1 by inducing deubiquitination which consequently contributed to FOXO3a deacetylation-induced PUMA repression. It was verified that this regulatory mechanism was responsible for the pro-apoptotic effect of miR-30d by the in vivo tumorigenicity assay.
Conclusion
To conclude, the progression of thyroid cancer can be suppressed by miR-30d-mediated inhibition of USP22, provides a promising therapeutic target for thyroid cancer treatment.
HSP60 regulates monosodium urate crystal-induced inflammation by activating the TLR4-NF- κ B-MyD88 signaling pathway and disrupting mitochondrial function
Authors: Gao Wei , Huang Qiushi , Qin Ting , Mu Heng , Long Fan , Ren Long , Tang Huan , Liu Jianpin , Zeng Mei
Published: April 2020

Background

Acute gout is an inflammatory response induced by monosodium urate (MSU) crystals. HSP60 is a highly conserved stress protein that acts as a cellular “danger” signal for immune reactions. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role and molecular mechanism of HSP60 in the gout.
Methods

HSP60 expression was detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and plasma of gout patients. The effect and mechanism of HSP60 in gout were studied in MSU crystals treatment macrophages and C57BL/6 mice. JC-1 probe and MitoSOX Red were used to measure the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS).
Results

HSP60 expression was significantly upregulated in the PBMCs and sera of patients with acute gout (AG) compared to those with inter-critical gout (IG) or healthy controls (HCs). MSU crystals induced expression and secretion of HSP60 in the macrophages. HSP60 knockdown or over-expression affects TLR4 and MyD88 expression, IκBα degradation and the nuclear localization of NF-κB in MSU crystal-stimulated inflammation. Further, HSP60 facilitates MMP collapse and mtROS production, and activates the NLRP3 inflammasome in MSU crystal-stimulated macrophages. In MSU crystal-induced arthritis and peritonitis mouse models pre-treated with HSP60 vivo-morpholino, paw swelling, ankle joint swelling, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and inflammatory cell infiltration significantly decreased.
Conclusion

Our study revealed that MSU crystal stimulates the expression of HSP60 which accelerates TLR4-MyD88-NF-κB signaling pathway and exacerbates mitochondrial dysfunction.
How is the dynamic impact of Undervaluation on Economic Growth in Latin American Countries?: A Panel VAR analysis
Authors: CHAVEZ CESAR
Published: April 2020

In this research, I analyze the dynamic effects of undervaluation on the economic growth per captai of Latin American countries with a period 1980-2018. To estimate these effects, I use a Panel Vector Autoregressive (PVAR) whose estimator is System GMM. The undervaluation variable is created from different measures of the real exchange rate and I also use various measures of GDP per capita to calculate economic growth per capita. I include as control variables macroeconomic and human capital variables to control the different channels of spread of undervaluation on economic growth per capita. The results show that there is a positive effect depending on the definition of the real exchange rate used to calculate the undervaluation. In the results I include the Granger causality test, stability test and impulse response graphs in which I project the response of per capita economic growth to an undervaluation shock.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of different methods of treatment of tubal ectopic pregnancy in the south of Iran
Authors: Jahromi Bahia Namavar , esmaili Elahe , Fardid Mozhgan , Abdosaleh Jafari , Kavosi Zahra , Shiravani Zahra , Keshavarz Khosro
Published: April 2020

Background: Ectopic pregnancy is one of the most important causes of maternal mortality and infertility that may impose many costs on patients. Today, Surgery and pharmaceutical treatments are the common methods of treating the disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of different methods of treating tubal ectopic pregnancy in the south of Iran.Methods: This study was an economic evaluation which analysed and compared the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of three treatment methods, including single-dose methotrexate, double-dose methotrexate, and surgery in patients with tubal ectopic pregnancy. In this study, a decision tree model was used. The outcomes included in the model were the percentage of successful treatment and the average utility score of each treatment method. The study was conducted from the social perspective and a one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed to measure the effects of uncertainty. The analysis of the collected data was performed using Excel and TreeAge software.Results: The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of the surgery versus single-dose methotrexate was positive and equal to $5812 PPP; since it was less than threshold, surgery was considered as a cost-effective method. The incremental cost-utility ratio also identified surgery as the best option. Moreover, the results of one-way showed the highest sensitivity to the effectiveness of single-dose methotrexate. Scatter plots also revealed that surgery in 82% and 96% of simulations was at the acceptable region compared with single dose and double-dose methotrexate, respectively and below the threshold. It was identified as the more cost effective strategy. Furthermore, the acceptability curves showed that in 81.4% of simulations, surgery was the most cost effective treatment for thresholds less than 21011 PPP dollars.Conclusions: Based on the results of the present study, it is recommended that surgery can be used as the first line of treatment for ectopic. Also, the best drug strategy was single dose methotrexate. Since these strategies reduce costs and increase treatment success and QALYs compared to double-dose methotrexate.
Molecular Docking, ADME Analysis, and Estimation of MM/GBSA Binding-Free Energies of Coumarin Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of SARS CoV-2 Receptors
Authors: Maurya Akhilesh Kumar , Mishra Nidhi
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) is recently declared pandemic (WHO) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Currently, there is no specific drug for the therapy of COVID-19. In the present study, in silico study have been done to find out possible inhibitors of SARS CoV-2. Coumarin derivatives with 2755 compounds were virtually screen against methyltransferase-stimulatory factor complex of NSP16 and NSP10, NSP15 Endoribonuclease, ADP ribose phosphatase (ADRP)of NSP3 and protease enzymes of SARS CoV-2. Docked top five compounds showed good docking scores and free energy of binding with the respective receptors. ADME/T analysis of docked compound shows the docked ligands are showing drug-likeness properties.
Can Mechanical Stress Therapies be used in COVID-19 outbreak?
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Haider Muhammad
Published: April 2020

Understanding the workings of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is crucial to develop counter therapeutic measures. SARS-CoV-2 gains entry into human cell by binding its receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of Spike protein (S1) to ACE2 receptors. In order to study the effect of mechanical stress on the RBD of SARS-CoV-2, it is modelled as viscoelastic material using Burgers Model. Strain response of RBD under constant stress is analyzed, which gives useful insights into the conformational transitions of RBD at 0K and physiological temperatures. The theoretical underpinning has shown that with increase in the number of stress cycles, the binding affinities of RBD conformational states to ACE2 receptor decrease, decreasing the binding reaction rate between ACE2 receptor and SARS-CoV-2. This analysis gives theoretical evidence that ultrasonic therapy and photo therapy (UV) can be potential candidates to reduce binding reaction rates between ACE2 and SARS-COV-2.
The Political Use of Prophecies in Indonesia
Authors: Stajić Mladen
Published: April 2020

The paper analyzes through different historical periods in Indonesia the political instrumentalization of three prophetic narratives based on the prophecies of the medieval Javanese king Jayabaya, and looks at the ways in which millenniarist organizations and political activists have used the myths of the Savior and the Golden Age to achieve their own goals. The form of prophetic narratives has proved extremely productive in the process of channeling dissatisfaction and mobilizing for the purpose of political activism, and their interpretation does not only yield a clearer picture of the complex political situation and historical events, but also, through the actions of influential individuals, it provides insight into a number of other aspects of local culture, such as the forming of religious syncretism, the division of power in society or the cultural perception of time. The paper seeks to show that these prophecies do not aim to foretell future events, but rather serve as a means of ensuring the legitimacy of individuals in political struggles in the present time.
I Feel Well on the Wrong Track: Milutin Doroslovac – Milo Dor
Authors: Ilić Marković Gordana
Published: April 2020

That a writer should change the language in which he writes, or that he or she should write from the start in a non-native language, is an increasingly common phenomenon. Economic migrations in the latter half of the 20th century, intensified in the 1990s by migrations due to political conflict, have resulted in a larger number of writers who do not write in their native language. Also, the question of defining the concept of native language in bilingual or multilingual speakers is quite complex. The established definition according to which the mother tongue is the language that is unconsciously acquired in a natural social environment in childhood, does not necessarily correspond to language development in the diaspora, where the first language to be acquired is not always the language of the family. Authors who write in a language that is not their first are not a new phenomenon in literature; on the contrary, they are a historical constant as are migrations themselves. There have been a number of attempts to coin a name for this phenomenon. Terms like exile literature, gastarbeiter (in German-speaking countries) literature, migrant, intercultural, multicultural or transcultural literature have been used. In their works, writers who as individuals are multilingual but write only in a language which is not their first, often engage with themes inspired by their own or their ancestors' cultural milieu. Also, they often engage in translation, thus additionally contributing to the interweaving of two cultures. The Austrian writer Milo Dor who, apart from some early poetry in his mother tongue – Serbian, created his entire literary oeuvre in the German language, is one such author. He wrote in German, was fluent in several languages principally using German and Serbian for communication, and drew on his cultural sphere and experience for his literary themes and range of social engagement. This interconnectedness of cultures is reflected not only in the themes of Dor's prose works, characterized by biographism, but also in his translations and in his work as editor. For writers from the territory of Yugoslavia, Dor represented for decades an important link with German-speaking countries, working tirelessly to promote them both in Austria and in Germany.