bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the prognosis of four different treatment strategies for acute left malignant colonic obstruction: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Tan Ling , Liu Zi-Lin , Ran Meng-Ni , Tang Ling-Han , Pu Yan-Jun , Liu Yi-Lei , Ma Zhou , He Zhou , Xiao Wei Jiang
Published: November 2020

Background There is controversy regarding the efficacy of different treatment strategies for acute left malignant colonic obstruction. This study investigated the prognosis of several treatment strategies for acute left malignant colonic obstruction. Methods A systematic literature review and network meta-analysis were performed. Results The network meta-analysis involved 48 articles, including 8 (Randomized controlled trials) RCTs and 40 non-RCTs. Short-term results: Compared with emergency surgery (ES) strategies, colonic stent-bridge to surgery (CS-BTS) and transanal colorectal tube-bridge to surgery (TCT-BTS) strategies can significantly increase the primary anastomosis rate, CS-BTS and decompressing stoma-bridge to surgery (DS-BTS) strategies can significantly reduce mortality, and CS-BTS strategies can significantly reduce the permanent stoma rate. The hospital stay of DS-BTS is significantly longer than that of other strategies. There was no significant difference in the anastomotic leakage levels of several treatment strategies. Long-term results: The 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) of the CS-BTS strategy and the DS-BTS strategy were significantly better than those of the ES strategy, and the 5-year OS of the DS-BTS strategy was significantly better than that of CS-BTS. The long-term survival of TCT-BTS was not significantly different from those of CS-BTS and ES. Conclusion Different preoperative decompression strategies may improve the prognosis of patients with acute left malignant colon obstruction. Comprehensive literature research, we found that timely and effective relief of intestinal obstruction would bring a better prognosis. Therefore, CS-BTS, DS-BTS and TCT-BTS are better than ES. Compared with CS-BTS and DS-BTS, CS-BTS has the risk of re-obstruction and intestinal perforation, and the long-term prognosis is slightly worse than that of DS-BTS. Without considering the length of stay and cost, DS-BTS strategy is the best choice.
Impact of Moderate-to-severe Psoriasis on Quality of Life in China: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Zhong Hua , Yang Huan , Mao Zhuxin , Chai Xiaoyun , Li Shunping
Published: November 2020

PurposePsoriasis is a serious health problem. Since limited research has investigated the impact of psoriasis on quality of life of patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis, this study aimed to explore this issue.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted with 22 psoriasis patients from two cities in Shandong province of eastern China participating in one-to-one semi-structured in-depth interviews. ResultsThematic analysis generated four major themes: (1) Impact on physical health; (2) Impact on psychological feelings; (3) Impact on social relationships; (4) Impact on work and profession.Conclusion﻿Our study detailed the effects of psoriasis on patients’ physical health, psychological feelings, social relationships, work and occupation. These data can provide reference for studying the quality of life in patients with psoriasis.
Association Between Heavy Metals and Colon Cancer: An Ecological Study Based on Geographical Information Systems in Northeastern Iran
Authors: Kiani Behzad , Amin Fatemeh Hashemi , Bagheri Nasser , Mohammadi Ali Akbar , Yousefi Mahmood , Faraji Hossein , Roshandel Gholamreza , Beirami Somayeh , Rahimzadeh Hadi , Hoseini Benyamin
Published: November 2020

BackgroundExposure to environmental pollutants such as heavy metals has been introduced as a possible contributor to increasing the risk of colon cancer. We aim to explore the associations between heavy metals and the age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) colon cancer in Northeastern Iran.MethodsCancer data were drawn from the population-based cancer registry of Golestan province, Northeastern Iran. The heavy metals’ samples were collected from 69 rice milling plants in the study area. Then, the concentration level of seven heavy metals, including Cadmium, Nickel, Cobalt, Copper, Selenium, Lead, and Zink was measured. The Kriging algorithm was used to interpolate the heavy metals' concentration on the surface of the study area. The exploratory regression analysis was conducted to build the ordinary least squares (OLS) models on every possible combination of the candidate explanatory variables. Finally, the best OLS models were chosen to show the effect of heavy metals on colon cancer.ResultsGenerally, heavy metals were higher in central part of the province. The analyses showed that the high concentration of Cobalt was associated with the high ASR of colon cancer in men. In contrast, the Selenium concentration was higher in areas with lower ASR of colon cancer in men. A significant regression equation for men colon cancer was found (F(4,137)=38.304, P<.000) with an adjusted R2 of 0.77. The predicted ASR of men colon cancer was -58.3581 with the coefficients for Cobalt= 120.329780; Cadmium= 80.603505; Selenium= -6.069037; Nickel= -3.086802; and Zink= -0.405843. The effect of Copper and Lead on men colon cancer was not significant. We did not find a significant model for women colon cancer.ConclusionThere may be a possible negative correlation between selenium concentration and lower risk of colon cancer in men. Furthermore, the higher cobalt concentration may be related to an increased risk of men colon cancer.
Multiplex Detection of Rotavirus A, B, C, Norovirus GI and GII, Adenovirus, Astrovirus and Sapovirus in a Single PCR System in Stool Samples From Acute Diarrhea Children
Authors: Li Wei , Li Weiwei , Tao Ran , Xiang Wenqing , Zhou Mingming , Lou Jingan , Chen Jie , Mao Jian-hua
Published: November 2020

Background: Early and accurate identification of infection viruses among children can benefit the personalized medical treatment and management, and reduce the future occurrence of serious symptoms. Thus, it is critical to develop a high-throughput multiplex real-time RT-PCR method to improve the accuracy and efficiency in routine clinical lab tests. Here, we developed a RT-PCR combined with melting curve analysis (RRCMC) method for simultaneous detection of rotavirus A, B, C, norovirus GI and GII, adenovirus, astrovirus and sapovirus. Results: Stool samples were collected from 160 children with acute diarrhea and tested by RRCMC assay. A total of 71 patients were tested positive with norovirus, adenovirus or rotavirus. The RRCMC assay has high specificity. There is no internal cross-reaction through the 8 diarrhea viruses and no cross-reaction of other commonly intestinal pathogens and human genome. The detection limit was ranging from 1×102 to 1×105 copies/ml for each diarrhea virus. Conclusions: In conclusion, the RRCMC method is a suitable rapid clinical test for infection viruses, with the advantages of high-throughput, low cost, high sensitivity, and specificity.
Dynamic Changes in Heparin-binding Protein as a Prognostic Biomarker in Patients with Sepsis
Authors: Dou Qing-Li , Liu Jiang-Ping , Zhang Wen-Wu , Tong Hoi Sin , Gu Ya-Nan , Li Na , Hu Rui , Wang Ching-Wei , Xu Jun , Lee Chien-Chang
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUNDWe aimed to investigate the prognostic value of dynamic changes in heparin-binding protein (HBP) within the first 48 hours of hospital admission in sepsis patients.MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study in the emergency intensive care unit of a tertiary care center. Patients who met SEPSIS-3 criteria were prospectively enrolled from August 2019 to January 2020. Serum levels of HBP were measured at admission, 24 hours, and 48 hours. Dynamic change in HBP was calculated as a percentage change between admission and 24 hours, and between admission and 48 hours. Accuracies of absolute level of HBP, dynamic change of HBP, and other biomarkers were compared with ROC analysis.ResultsA total of 245 patients were enrolled. After excluding patients not fulfilling the eligibility criteria and those died before 48 hours of admission, 185 patients were included for final analysis, of which 117 had sepsis, 68(36.76%) had septic shock, and 48(30%) died in the hospital. Day 1-HBP was correlated with procalcitonin (r2=0.21, p=0.004). Of all predictors of 30-day mortality, HBP clearance within 48 hours had the highest predictive accuracy (AUC: 0.82), followed by Day 1-HBP (AUC: 0.79), PCT (AUC: 0.75) and HBPc-24(AUC: 0.6). HBPc-48 > -17.14% had an independent impact on 30-day survival after adjusting for age, gender, shock status, and requirement of mechanical ventilation support.ConclusionsHBPc-48 can predict survival in critically ill patients with sepsis and can assist clinicians with risk stratification of these patients. Future multicenter studies are necessary to assess the generalizability of these findings.
Risk Factors for Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tian Lei , Shao Xinghua , Hang Ying , Yang Weiqiang , Mou Shan , Zhu Changqing
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAcute kidney injury (AKI) frequently develops in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 and is associated with poor outcome. Unfortunately, risk factors for AKI in COVID-19 have not been clearly elucidated. Clinical evidence is required to identify risk factors for AKI and to adopt appropriate management strategies during early COVID-19 intervention.MethodThe PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Elsevier Science direct were systematically searched up to September 2020. The studies that reported risk factors for AKI in patients with COVID-19 were included. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager Software (RevMan 5.3). Pool odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were assessed for each risk factor.ResultsEleven studies with 8815 COCID-19 patients fulfilled eligibility criteria were incorporated into the meta-analysis, and sixteen risk factors related to AKI in patients with COVID-19 were included and analyzed. The following variables probably correlated with an increased risk of AKI in COVID-19 patients: male (OR=1.62, 95% CI, 1.24-2.13, P<0.05), mechanical ventilation (OR=9.44, 95% CI, 5.16-17.27, P<0.05), ICU admission (OR=10.57, 95%CI, 9.33-11.98, P<0.00001), use of vasopressor (OR=19.36, 95%CI, 16.77-22.34, P<0.00001), obesity (OR =1.75 ,95%CI, 1.58-1.95, p<0.00001), diabetes (OR= 1.73, 95% CI, 1.57-1.90, p<0.00001), hypertension (OR=1.53 , 95% CI, 1.04-2.20, p=0.03), cardiac disease (OR = 1.71, 95% CI, 1.51-1.94, p<0.00001), CKD (OR=2.86, 95%CI, 1.54-5.32, p=0.0009), and COPD (OR= 1.7 ,95% CI, 1.40-2.07, p<0.00001). The factors RAAS inhibitors use, cerebrovascular disease and malignancy were not significantly associated with AKI in patients with COVID-19.Conclusions﻿Our meta-analysis revealed a variety of risk factors for AKI in patients with COVID-19. There findings strengthened clinical awareness of early warning to identify COVID-19 patients with high risk for AKI.
Early Onset, Multiple, Bilateral Fibroadenomas of the Breast: A Case Report
Authors: Im Cecilia Jung , Miller Ashlie , Mukhtar Rita A
Published: November 2020

Background: While fibroadenomas are common in the general population, affecting 10-20% of women, they are rarely early onset, multiple, and bilateral. Case Presentation: An 18-year-old woman presented with a 6 year history of multiple, bilateral breast masses without family history of breast disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, Figure 1) of the breasts showed innumerable, bilateral breast masses ranging in size from 0.5 to 4 cm. Two needle biopsies showed fibroadenoma. Although the patient’s family history did not meet National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for genetic testing, it was performed due to the rarity of her presentation. Genetic testing identified a pathogenic mutation in the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) gene. Conclusions: A germline mutation in PTEN is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, and in many cases occurs as part of Cowden Syndrome. This case highlights the importance of genetic testing in patients with unusual presentations of early-onset, bilateral, and multiple (greater than four) fibroadenomas.
Risk Factors for Severe 30-d Complications After Minimally Invasive Radical Cystectomy With Ileal Conduit
Authors: Xiao Ming , Zhong Zhaohui , Ren Jiannan , Xiong Wei
Published: November 2020

Background: To investigate the risk factors for severe complications within 30 days in patients receiving minimally invasive radical cystectomy with ileal conduit(MIRCIC).Methods: 270 consecutive patients who underwent MIRCIC between January 1, 2013 and August 1, 2020 were included. All complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification(CDC). The comprehensive complication index(CCI) for all complications in each patient was calculated. CDC ≥ Ⅲ or CCI > 33.7 were considered to be severe complications. Univariate and multivariate analysis were conducted by SPSS26.Results: A total of 691 complications were collected from 236 patients and the corresponding overall complications rate was 87.41% (236/270). Patients with CDC ≥ Ⅲ accounted for 23.70% and the incidence of CCI > 33.7 was 22.96%. For the highest CDC grade ≥ Ⅲ, in univariate analysis, the following seven variants were enrolled in a multivariate analysis: BMI (P=0.010), baseline albumin(P=0.065), pT (P=0.082), pN (P=0.026), pTNM (P=0.016), intraoperative blood transfusion (P=0.031), estimated blood loss (P=0.001). In multivariate analysis, BMI ≥ 30kg/m2 (P=0.012) and estimated blood loss ≥ 400ml (P=0.005) were the independent risk factors of CDC ≥ Ⅲ. Hydronephrosis (P=0.050), BMI (P=0.006), pT (P=0.004), pN (P=0.019), pTNM (P=0.000), operative time (P=0.030), estimated blood loss (P=0.001) were the relevant factors in CCI > 33.7. However, BMI ≥ 30kg/m2 (P=0.004) and estimated blood loss (P=0.002) were the independent risk factors of CCI > 33.7.Conclusion: BMI ≥ 30kg/m2 and estimated blood loss ≥ 400ml were found to be independent predictors of 30-d severe complications (CDC ≥ Ⅲ or CCI > 33.7) in patients who underwent MIRCIC.
WITHDRAWN: Survival Nomograms for Patients with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Population-based Study
Authors: Lin Bi , Yu Dinglai , Chen Shengchuan , Wang Daojie , Huang Chaohao
Published: November 2020

Background: Although Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors(PNETs) considered as indolent tumors, most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Herein, we aimed to establish a nomogram to predict the survival of PNETs patients for clinical use via Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Methods: Based on the SEER program, the data of 1103 patients with PNETs were enrolled and randomly divided into training set and validation set. We performed Kaplan-Meier analysis, Cox proportional hazard regression analysis in training set to evaluate the value of prognostic factors. A nomogram was constructed obtained these independent prognostic factors for predicting overall survival(OS) and specific-cancer survival(CSS). C-index, calibration curve, decision curve analysis were used to evaluate the predictive accuracy of the nomogram. Results: Age, primary site, TNM stage, grade, and surgery were associated with OS and CSS in the multivariate models. Nomograms were established depend on these risk factors and had a better discrimination power than TMN stage. The validation technologies showed that the nomogram was able to predict 3- and 5-year OS and CSS accurately, and also proved the superiority. Age, primary site, TNM stage, grade, and surgery were associated with OS and CSS in the multivariate models. Conclusions: Nomograms were established depend on these risk factors and had a better discrimination power than TMN stage. The validation technologies showed that the nomograms were able to predict 3- and 5-year OS and CSS accurately, and also proved the superiority.
Long-Term Oncologic Result of Laparoscopic Versus Open Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: A Propensity Score-Matching Analysis
Authors: Wu Si-yuan , Ho Meng-Hsing , Chang Hao-Ming , Hsu Kuo-Feng , Yu Jyh-Cherng , Chan De-Chuan
Published: November 2020

Background: Laparoscopic gastrectomy is an acceptable procedure for early-stage gastric cancer; however, most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage and older age in Taiwan. The feasibility and safety of applying laparoscopic gastrectomy in daily practice remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic gastrectomy versus open procedures.Methods: From 2007 to 2015, 192 patients who underwent open gastrectomy and 189 patients who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer at a single center were included. Propensity score-matching analysis was used to adjust selection biases associated with age, preoperative hemoglobulin, extent of resection, tumor size, and stage of disease. The demographics, perioperative parameters, postoperative short-term results, and 5-year survival data were analyzed.Results: Open gastrectomy was more frequently performed in the elderly, larger tumor size, advanced stage of disease, and disease requiring total gastrectomy or combined organ resection. After propensity score-matching, 108 patients with laparoscopic gastrectomy were compared to 108 patients with open gastrectomy. The morbidity rates were not different in both groups (25.9%), while hospital stay was shorter in the laparoscopic group (16.0 vs. 18.8 days, p = 0.04). The 5-year overall survival and disease-free survival were superior in the laparoscopic group (p = 0.03 and p = 0.01, respectively); however, the survival differences were not significant in the subgroup analysis by stage. Laparoscopic gastrectomy had fewer recurrences than open gastrectomy. The pattern of recurrence was not different between the groups.Conclusions: Laparoscopic gastrectomy can be safely applied in both early and locally advanced gastric cancer without compromising oncologic outcomes.Trial registration: Retrospective registration.
Nomogram Based on Preoperative Clinical Characteristics to Predict the Risk of Lymph Node Metastasis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wei Rongyu , Li Shuqun , Ren Liying , Yu Junxiong , Liao Weijia
Published: November 2020

Background: There are limitations in judging the occurrence of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) before surgery. The purpose of this study was to establish a preoperative nomogram for predicting the risk of LNM in HCC and to explore its clinical utility.Methods: A total of 195 HCC patients undergoing radical hepatectomy were retrospectively analyzed. According to the presence or absence of LNM, the patients were divided into two groups, and the clinical characteristics of the two groups were compared. Risk factors for LNM were assessed based on logistic regression, and a nomogram was established. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to calculate area under the curve (AUC) of the logistic regression model, and the predictive accuracy of the nomogram was evaluated by the concordance index (C-index). The clinical efficacy of the nomogram was detected by decision curve analysis (DCA).Results: Logistic analysis revealed hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) (HR = 3.50, 95% CI, 1.30-9.42, P = 0.013), globulin (HR = 2.46, 95% CI, 1.05-5.75, P = 0.039), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (HR = 7.64, 95% CI, 3.22-18.11, P < 0.001) and tumor size (HR = 3.86, 95% CI, 1.26-11.88 P = 0.018) were independent risk factors for lymph node metastasis in HCC. The nomogram was established based on the above 4 variables, and the AUC was 0.835 (95% CI, 0.780-0.890). The calibration curve showed that the model has good predictive ability, and DCA indicates good predictive effect.Conclusions: The nomogram established by analyzing the preoperative clinical characteristics is a simple tool that can predict the risk of lymph node metastasis in HCC patients and guide clinicians to make better clinical decisions.
Successful Treatment For a Young Patient With Multiple Synchronous Breast And Lung Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Zhao Mengfan , Bi Lusha , Wu Bin
Published: November 2020

Introduction Reports of synchronous multiple primary cancers in patients with breast cancer have recently been increasing because of progress in radiographic diagnostic techniques. Multiple primary cancers in patients with breast cancer mainly occur in the lung and endometrium. Case report We report a 37-year-old female patient diagnosed with synchronous double primary cancers, namely invasive ductal carcinoma of the left breast and invasive carcinoma of inferior lobe of the right lung based on the pathological examination. After MDT, we gave her both lung and breast surgery then adjuvantchemothrapy(AC-T) and EGFR-TKI (Gefitinib). We followed this patient until October, 2020, the patient was healthy and with no clinical or radiologic signs of recurrent or metastatic disease at the time of this writing.Discuss The pathogenesis of MPCs is still unclear, which is closely related to many factors, such as genetic, immune, iatrogenic, endocrine, lifestyle. The diagnosis depends on chest CT and Pathology examination. And there is no standard treatment guideline for MPCs. The specific therapy plan should be made after MDT discussion.Conclusion Multiple synchronous breast and lung adenocarcinoma in one patient dose not like metastatic carcinoma. If the treatment is in time, the patient can also get a good prognosis.
Distinct Landscapes of Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations of E2F Family Genes Between Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zheng Guo-Liang , Zhang Guo-Jun , Wu Tian-Yi , Zhao Yan , Zheng Zhi-Chao
Published: November 2020

Background/Aims: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) are primarily driven by different genetic changes. The E2F transcription factors (E2Fs) are involved in various malignancies; yet little is known about their roles in ESCC and EAC. This study aimed to investigate genetic and epigenetic alterations of the E2F family genes in ESCC and EAC, and to examine whether the differential changes are associated with the distinct mechanisms. Materials and Methods: mRNA and methylation levels of E2F family genes in ESCC and EAC were retrieved from the database UALCAN. The cBioPortal for Cancer Genomics and Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database were used to analyze genetic mutations and interaction networks for E2Fs, respectively.Results: The genetic alteration patterns of E2Fs were different between ESCC and EAC. Furthermore, differences in methylation levels, CNV, and mutation frequency in certain E2F family genes were observed between ESCC and EAC. Moreover, E2Fs were co-expressed and interacted with proteins involved in the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and histone modifications in EC. Additionally, Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed significant lower E2F1, E2F3, E2F5, E2F7, and E2F8 mRNA levels in association with better prognosis for EAC; while lower E2F1, E2F3, E2F6, E2F7, and E2F8 mRNA levels indicated poorer outcome for ESCC. Conclusions: The different patterns of genetic and epigenetic alterations in the E2F family genes between ESCC and EAC are likely to be associated with different mechanisms. Certain E2Fs hold promise as biomarkers for differential diagnosis of EAC and ESCC, and for prognostic prediction.
Ring Finger Protein 180 Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Energy Metabolism of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Through Down-Regulating C-myc
Authors: Ding Yi , Lu Yi , Xie Xinjie , Cao Lei , Zheng Shiying
Published: November 2020

BackgroundNon-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) causes a great number of cancer-related mortality worldwide, but the biomarkers for prognosis of NSCLC are scarce because of their inconsistent efficiency. Proteins containing RING finger domain are the key mediator for ubiquitination, which controls cell cycle and regulates tumor progression. Ring Finger Protein 180 (RNF180) has been reported to suppress gastric cancer, whereas its function in NSCLC is still unclear. In this study, the association between RNF180 expression and NSCLC as well as the effect of RNF180 in cellular proliferation and metabolism of NSCLC were investigated. MethodsQuantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemical staining were performed to analyse RNF180 levels. Moreover, RNA interference (RNAi) and lentiviral-mediated vector transfections were performed to silence and overexpress RNF180. Further, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to assess its biological function in cell proliferation. A xenograft model was used to examine RNF180 function in vivo. ResultsWe found that the expression of RNF180 was decreased in NSCLC tissues, and its expression was positively correlated with the survival rate of NSCLC patients. Furthermore, the overexpression of RNF180 in NSCLC cells suppressed their proliferation, glycolytic activities, and mitochondrial respiration in vitro, and it restricted the tumorigenicity in mice. In addition, RNF180 knockdown promoted NSCLC cell proliferation and energy metabolism, whereas these promotive effects were counteracted by C-myc inhibitor. The underlying anti-NSCLC mechanism of RNF180 involved in the down-regulation of C-myc through ubiquitin-dependent degradation, and subsequently reduced C-myc downstream: lactate dehydrogenase-A (LDHA) and hexokinase-2 (HK2). ConclusionsThese results firstly indicated the anti-tumor properties of RNF180 and its significant correlation with NSCLC, which endorses RNF180 with the potential as efficient prognostic biomarker for tumor recurrence in NSCLC.
Leptomeningeal cells induce synaptic failure via Cathepsin B-mediated IL-1β production after Porphyromonas gingivalis infection
Authors: Huang Wanyi , Zeng Fan , Gu Yebo , Jiang Muzhou , Zhang Xinwen , Yan Xu , Kadowaki Tomoko , Mizutani Shinsuke , Kashiwazaki Haruhiko , Ni Junjun , Wu Zhou
Published: November 2020

Background: Synaptic failure is the earliest sign before Alzheimer’s disease (AD) onset and closely associated with cognitive decline. Clinical studies have shown that periodontitis is positively correlated with both the onset and progression of AD, and preclinical studies have shown that Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and its virulence factors induced memory decline in mice. However, the mechanisms underlying the involvement of P. gingivalis in memory decline remain unclear.Methods: Fifteen-month-old female C57/BL6J mice were intraperitoneally injected with P. gingivalislearning and memory were evaluated by step through passive avoidance tests. Immunofluorescent staining was used to examine the expression of IL-1β and synaptic markers. Primary leptomeningeal cells and primary cortical neurons were used to evaluate the its effects on synaptic generation and plasticity. The expression of related molecules was examined by Q-PCR and Western blotting. Pharmacological and genetic approaches were used to explore the roles of leptomeningeal cells in synaptic changes after P. gingivalis infection. Results: P. gingivalis infection induced the increased expression of IL-1β in leptomeninges and decreased expression of synaptophysin (SYP) in the cortex proximity of the leptomeninges, which was accompanied by memory decline in middle-aged mice. NLRP3 inflammasome activation was involved in augmenting the IL-1β secretion by primary leptomeningeal cells after P. gingivalis infection. Cathepsin B (CatB) mediated the activation of both NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB in P. gingivalis-infected primary leptomeningeal cells. In contrast, P. gingivalis-infected leptomeningeal cells induced an IL-1β-dependent decrease in pre- and post-synaptic molecules in primary cortical neurons, as determined by the pharmacological blockage of the IL-1 receptor. P. gingivalis-infected leptomeningeal cells also induced the IL-1β-dependent suppression of BDNF signaling in cultured N2a neurons. Furthermore, propolis produced by honeybees, suppressed the expression of IL-1β but increased that of BDNF in P. gingivalis-infected leptomeningeal cells. Conclusion: The CatB-mediated IL-1β production was augmented in leptomeningeal cells, resulting in synaptic failure and blockage of BDNF signaling in neurons during P. gingivalis infection. These findings highlight a new mechanism underlying the involvement of periodontitis in AD initiation and suggest that CatB may be an early intervention therapeutic target for delaying the onset of AD during P. gingivalis infection.
Effect of low-sugar and High-dietary Fiber Noodles on Glycemic Response in Healthy Humans: A Cross-over Trial
Authors: Kadokura Kazunari , Tomita Tsuyoshi , Hata Sachiyo , Kamata Kazuhiko , Suruga Kohei
Published: November 2020

Background: Low-carbohydrate diets are popular nutritional therapeutics based on recommendations of the American Diabetes Association (2013). In previous reports, we suggested a new diet-intake restriction method using low-sugar, high-dietary fiber noodles containing okara and konjac and reported their effect on blood glucose levels in healthy animals and animal models of type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to compare the effect of low-sugar, high-dietary fiber noodles with that of normal wheat noodles on glycemic response in healthy adult men.Methods: The study was a randomized, cross-over design to investigate the effects of normal wheat noodles versus low-sugar, high-dietary fiber noodles on glucose and insulin responses at 120 min. Plasma glucose and insulin levels were measured at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, and 120 min after intake of normal wheat noodles or low-sugar, high-dietary fiber noodles.Results: No abnormalities and side effects were observed in the low-sugar, high-dietary fiber noodles group. Additionally, in men who consumed low-sugar, high-dietary fiber noodles, the increase in postprandial blood glucose levels and insulin levels was significantly suppressed compared with that in men who consumed normal wheat noodles. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the effectiveness of low-sugar, high-dietary fiber noodles on postprandial blood glucose levels in healthy humans; our findings also suggest that such type of noodles might be beneficial for patients with diabetes or celiac disease who consume noodles.Trial registration: UMIN000023986
A Deep Learning Based Methods for Forecasting Gold Price with Respect to Pandemics
Authors: Khani Mahtab Mohtasham , Vahidnia Sahand , Abbasi Alireza
Published: November 2020

The spread of COVID-19 in the world had a devastating impact on the world economy, trade relations, and globalization. As the pandemic advances and new potential pandemics are on the horizon, a precise analysis of recent fluctuations of trade becomes necessary for international decisions and controlling the world in similar crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic made a new pattern of trade in the world and affected how businesses work and trade with each other. It means that every potential pandemic or any unprecedented event in the world can change the market rules. This research develops a novel model to have a proper estimation of the stock market values with respect to COVID-19 dataset using long short-term memory networks (LSTM).The nature of the features in each pandemic is totally different, thus, prediction results for a pandemic by a specific model cannot be applied to other pandemics. Hence, recognising and extracting the features which affect the pandemic is in the highest priorities. In this study, we develop a framework, providing a better understanding of the features and feature selection. This study is based on a preliminary analysis of such features for enhancing forecasting models' performance against fluctuations in the market.Our forecasts are based on the market value data and COVID-19 pandemic daily time-series data (i.e. the number of new cases). In this study, we selected Gold price as a base for our forecasting task which can be replaced by any other markets. We have applied Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) LSTM, Vector Out-put Sequence LSTM, Bidirectional LSTM, and Encoder-Decoder LSTM on our dataset and our results achieved an MSE of 6.0e-4, 8.0e-4, and 2.0e-3 on the validation set respectfully for one day, two days, and 30 days predictions in advance which is outperforming other proposed method in the literature.
Kawasaki disease in pediatric isolation ward during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chen Xia , Chen Xiuzhen , Shu Junhua , Huang Yang , Wu Yabin
Published: November 2020

Background: To our knowledge, a link between an emergence of Kawasaki disease and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has not been reported in China. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of Kawasaki patients admitted to Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province from January 1, 2015 to July 31, 2020. Kawasaki patients admitted to the isolation ward from January 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020 as the current cohort and Kawasaki patients admitted to the general wards from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019 as the historical cohort were analyzed.Results: The current cohort comprised 15 patients (10 boys and 5 girls, median age 11 months) without severe form. SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid test was performed in 13 cases and SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (IgM and IgG) was conducted in 11 cases, but no positive results were found. The historical cohort included 89 patients (54 boys and 35 girls, median age 15 months). Comparison between the historical cohort and the current cohort demonstrated that there were no significant differences in age, sex, clinical manifestations, blood routine examination, blood biochemistry, cardiac ultrasound and treatment, but the incidence and the abnormal chest imaging in the current cohort were significantly higher than those in the historical cohort. Conclusion: This study suggested that there may be an association between the emergence of Kawasaki disease with non-severe form and COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan.
Inhibitory effects of iron depletion plus eribulin on the breast cancer microenvironment
Authors: Goto Wataru , Kashiwagi Shinichiro , Asano Yuka , Takada Koji , Morisaki Tamami , Takahashi Katsuyuki , Fujita Hisakazu , Shibutani Masatsune , Amano Ryosuke , Takashima Tsutomu , Tomita Shuhei , Hirakawa Kosei , Ohira Masaichi
Published: November 2020

Background: Iron is required for the proliferation of cancer cells, and its depletion suppresses tumor growth. Eribulin mesylate (eribulin), a non-taxane microtubule inhibitor, disrupts the tumor microenvironment via vascular remodeling and obstruction of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Herein, we investigated the effects of the iron chelator on tumor-related properties of breast cancer cells and the effects of iron chelator plus eribulin on tumor growth in vivo.Methods: Two triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and BT-549, and one hormone-receptor positive breast cancer cell line, MCF-7, were used in our study. Cell proliferation, cell migration, cell cycle position, and gene expression were analyzed via MTT assays, wound-healing assays, flow cytometry, and quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. For the in vivo experiments, mice with breast cancer xenografts were treated with the inhibitors, alone or together, and tumor volume was determined.Results: Iron chelator inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation and decreased the proportion of S-phase cells. Conversely, it induced hypoxia, angiogenesis, EMT, and immune checkpoints, as determined by quantifying the expression of marker mRNAs in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. Eribulin suppressed the expression of the hypoxia and EMT related marker mRNAs in the presence of iron chelator. Iron chelator plus eribulin inhibited tumor growth in vivo to a greater extent than did either inhibitor alone.Conclusions: Although iron chelator induces oncogenic events (hypoxia, angiogenesis, EMT, and immune checkpoints), it may be an effective treatment for breast cancer when administered in combination with eribulin.
Effect of Streptococcus anginosus on biological response of tongue squamous cell carcinoma cells 
Authors: Xu Yuan , Jia Yuhuan , Chen Liang , Gao Jing , Yang Deqin
Published: November 2020

Background: Streptococcus anginosus(S.anginosus) was reported increased in oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC) tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate the response of oral cancer cells in the biological characteristics evoked by the S.anginosus and investigate its potential mechanisms.Methods: The growth curve and concentration standard curve of S.anginosus were determined , and a series of concentrations of S.anginosus supernatant were applied to OSCC cell lines SCC15,then selected an optimal time and concentration by CCK-8 assay. Then autophagic response, proliferative activity, cell cycle and apoptosis, invasion and migration abilities were evaluated in SCC15.Results: The results showed that when the ratio of S.anginosus supernatant to cell culture medium was 1:1 and the co-culture time was 16h, there was a most significant inhibited effect on SCC15; Furthermore, S.anginosus supernatant can up-regulate the autophagy activity of SCC15, then, the ability of proliferation, migration and invasion was observed inhibited obviously. Compared with the control groups, the cell cycle showed G1 arrest, S and G2 / M phases decreased, and the percentage of apoptotic cells relatively increased(P<0.05).Conclusion: S.anginosus can reduce the proliferation, migration and invasion of SCC15 cells and promote cell apoptosis; Moreover, autophagy may be one of the mechanisms in this process.
Using augmented reality technology for balance training in the elderly. A feasibility pilot study
Authors: Blomqvist Sven , Seipel Stefen , Engström Maria
Published: November 2020

Background: Impaired balance leading to falls is common in the elderly, and there is strong evidence that balance training reduces falls and increases independence. Reduced resources in health care will result in fewer people getting help with rehabilitation training. In this regard, the new technology augmented reality (AR) could be helpful. With AR, the elderly can receive help with instructions and get feedback on their progression in balance training. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility of using AR-based visual-interactive tools in balance training of the elderly. Methods: Seven elderly participants (66-88 years old) with impaired balance trained under supervision of a physiotherapist twice a week for six weeks using AR-based visual-interactive guidance, which was facilitated through a Microsoft HoloLens holographic display. Afterwards, participants and physiotherapists were interviewed about the new technology and their experience of the training. Also, fear of falling and balance ability were measured before and after training. Results: Five participants experienced the new technology as positive in terms of increased motivation and feedback. Experiences were mixed regarding the physical and technical aspects of the HoloLens and the design of the HoloLens application. Participants also described issues that needed to be further improved, for example, the training program was difficult and monotonous. Further, the HoloLens hardware was felt to be heavy, the application's menu was difficult to control with different hand manoeuvres, and the calibration took a long time. Suggestions for improvements were described. Results of the balance tests and self-assessment instruments indicated no improvements in balance performance after AR training. Conclusions: The study showed that training with the new technology is, to some extent, feasible for the elderly, but needs further development. Also, the technology seemed to stimulate increased motivation, which is a prerequisite for adherence to training. However, the new technology and training requires further development and testing in a larger context.
Acetate Ringer's solution versus 0.9% saline for septic patients: study protocol for a multi-center parallel controlled trial
Authors: Liu Fang , Zhang Jing , Zhu Yuan , Su Lianjiu , Li Yiming , He Li , Yu Li , Peng Zhiyong
Published: November 2020

Background: Previous study drew different conclusions on significant differences between saline and balanced crystalloid solution infused in critical illness but both the statistical difference in sepsis subgroup. Thus, we will specifically focus on septic patients in this study to compare the effects of saline and balanced solution. We hypothesize that effects of saline on acute kidney injury (AKI) are related to the underline AKI severity and total volumes of infusion.Methods/design: The investigators designed a pragmatic, multi-center parallel controlled trial recruiting 312 patients who are diagnosed with sepsis/septic shock in the intensive care unit (ICU) and will be assigned with either acetate Ringer’s solution or saline in the corresponding month. Patients with an end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or who need renal replacement therapy (RRT) prior to or at the time of enrolment are excluded. Enrolled patients will be regarded as with mild, moderate or severe sepsis on the basis of the severity of their illness, and will be divided into subgroups according to their initial renal function and various intravenous infusion volumes when being analyzed. The primary outcome is major adverse kidney events within 28 days (MAKE28), including the composite of in-hospital death, receipt of new renal replacement therapy, or persistent renal dysfunction. Secondary outcomes include 28 days-mortality, internal environment disturbance, incidence and duration of vasoactive drug treatment, duration of mechanical ventilation, duration of RRT and ICU and hospital length of stay.Results and conclusions: To our knowledge, this study will be the first to focus on septic patients and provide credible and evident data on the comparison of outcome between acetate Ringer’s solution and saline for intravenous infusion in adult septic patients on the basis of baseline renal function and infusion volumes taken into consideration.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, identifiers: NCT03685214. Registered on August 15th, 2018. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03685214
Prevalence and Correlates of Depressive Symptoms Among High School Adolescent Girls in Southern Uganda
Authors: Nabunya Proscovia , Damulira Christopher , Byansi William , Muwanga Joelynn , Bahar Ozge Sensoy , Namuwonge Flavia , Ighofose Eloho , Brathwaite Rachel , Tumwesige Wilberforce , Ssewamala Fred M
Published: November 2020

Background: In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), adolescent girls and young women are three times more likely than boys to have depressive disorders. Understanding adolescents’ unique and common vulnerabilities and protective factors is essential for the development of appropriate interventions and programming focused on child and adolescent mental health. This paper examines the prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms among high school adolescent girls in southern Uganda. Methods: Baseline data from a longitudinal cluster randomized study involving 1260 adolescent girls (14–17 years), recruited from 47 secondary schools were utilized. Depressive symptoms were estimated using the 21-item Beck’s Depression Inventory. Hierarchical linear regression modelling was utilized to estimate key predictors of depressive symptoms among adolescent girls. Results: Of the total sample, 16.35% (n=206) reported severe depressive symptoms and almost one in every three adolescent girls interviewed (29.68%, n=374) reported moderate symptoms. These symptoms were more prevalent among older adolescents (16 years and above). In addition, family relationships, social support, as well as measures of psychological wellbeing (self-concept and self-esteem) were all associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms. Hopelessness was associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms among adolescent girls. Conclusion: Findings from this study indicate a high prevalence of depressive symptoms, especially among older adolescent girls. In addition, family support factors and adolescents’ psychological wellbeing were associated with low levels of depressive symptoms –pointing to the need to strengthen family functioning and adolescent’s psychological wellbeing to mitigate risks. Taken together, findings support increasing calls for early screening and detection of depressive symptoms to facilitate timely referral to care and treatment. Findings may also inform the development and incorporation of gender-specific mental health components in programming targeting adolescent girls, in low-resource communities in SSA.Trial Registration: This trial was prospectively registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (registrationnumber: NCT03307226) on 11 October 2017.
Improvements in French Risk Stratification Score were Correlated with Reductions in Mean Pulmonary Artery Pressure in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Subanalysis of the Japan Pulmonary Hypertension Registry (JAPHR)
Authors: Tamura Yuichi , Kumamaru Hiraku , Abe Kohtaro , Satoh Toru , Miyata Hiroaki , Ogawa Aiko , Tanabe Nobuhiro , Hatano Masaru , Yao Atsushi , Tsujino Ichizo , Fukuda Keiichi , Kimura Hiroshi , Kuwana Masataka , Matsubara Hiromi , Tatsumi Koichiro
Published: November 2020

BackgroundSince there was no previous report, we analyzed the relationship between French Risk Stratification parameters in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and mean pulmonary arterial pressures (mPAP) using Japan PH Registry (JAPHR) national-wide cohort.MethodsWe enrolled 108 patients with PAH from JAPHR from previous reported cohort and analyzed the relations between French Risk Stratification scores and hemodynamic improvements.ResultsThe ratio meeting 0 to 4 French Risk Stratification score was 21.3%, 31.5%, 32.4%, 13.0%, and 1.9% at baseline, and 6.5%, 23.2%, 33.3%, 23.2%, 13.9% at follow-up, respectively. The improvements in the number of criteria met were associated both with mPAP at follow-up (p=0.03) and with the improvements in mPAP (p<0.001).ConclusionThe improvements in French Risk Stratification may become a marker of improved hemodynamics including mPAP.
Emphasise Capability, Not Disability: Exploring public perceptions, facilitators and barriers to living well with dementia in Northern Ireland.
Authors: Mitchell Gary , McTurk Victoria , Carter Gillian , Brown-Wilson Christine
Published: November 2020

Background: Improving public knowledge and understanding about dementia has been identified as a priority area by people living with the condition, researchers, educators, and policymakers for several years. Societies that have a better understanding of the condition are more likely to enable people living with dementia to enjoy a better quality of life. The aim of this study was to explore current public perceptions of dementia along with the facilitators and barriers to living well from the perspective of people living with the condition in Northern Ireland.Methods: Four focus group interviews were conducted with a total of 20 people living with dementia across three Northern Irish Counties in June 2019. These interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Ethical approval was obtained for this study prior to data collection.Findings: Following thematic analysis, three themes emerged in relation to barriers and facilitators to living well with dementia. These were: ‘Emphasis on Disability NOT Capability’, which highlighted societal misconceptions about the activities and modes of life which people with dementia could or could not do; ‘Normalise Dementia – We Don’t Want a Fool’s Pardon’, which focused on how the public could encourage people living with the condition to enjoy greater independence, and ‘Dementia isn’t a Death Sentence’, which considered how professionals, family members and friends treated the person after diagnosis.Conclusions: Public perceptions about dementia have the potential to act as both facilitators and barriers to living well with dementia. People with dementia stated that they are more likely sustain wellbeing when they are valued and can maintain independence. On the contrary, poor public and professional attitudes to dementia had the potential to disempower people living with dementia.