bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lifetime prevalence of polyvictimization among older adults in Sweden, associations with ill-heath, and the mediating effect of sense of coherence
Authors: Simmons Johanna , Swahnberg Katarina
Published: February 2021

Background

Experiences of violence and abuse is a prominent part of the life history of many older adults and is known to have negative health effects. However, the importance of multiple victimization over the life course, e.g., lifetime polyvictimization, is not well investigated in this age group. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of lifetime physical, emotional, and sexual victimization as well as polyvictimization among older adults in Sweden. We explored background characteristics associated with polyvictimization and hypothesized that violence victimization and especially polyvictimization would be associated with lower health status. To better understand factors that promote health in the aftermath of victimization, we also explored the effect of two resilience factors, sense of coherence (SOC) and social support, on the association between victimization and ill-health.

Method

Cross-sectional data from a random population sample in Sweden (womenn = 270, menn = 337) aged 60–85 was used. Respondents answered questions about exposure to violence, health status, social support, and SOC. Conditional process analysis was used to test if SOC mediates the association between victimization and health outcome, and if social support moderates the association.

Results

Overall, 24.8% of the women and 27.6% of the men reported some form of lifetime victimization and 82.1% of the female and 62.4% of the male victims were classified as polyvictims, i.e., reported experiences of more than one episode of violence. As hypothesized, we found a negative association between victimization and health status and the association was most prominent for polyvictims. We found moderated mediation for the association between polyvictimization and health status, i.e., polyvictimization was associated with lower SOC and SOC had a positive correlation with health status. Social support moderated the association, i.e., victims without social support had lower health scores.

Conclusions

Lifetime polyvictimization was common among older adults and associated with lower health status. To help victims of violence recover, or preferably never develop ill-health, a better understanding of what fosters resilience is warranted. This study implies that social support, and especially SOC may be factors to consider in future interventions concerning older adults subjected to violence.
Endemic chikungunya fever in Kenyan children: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Nyamwaya Doris K. , Otiende Mark , Omuoyo Donwilliams O. , Githinji George , Karanja Henry K. , Gitonga John N. , R. de Laurent Zaydah , Otieno James R. , Sang Rosemary , Kamau Everlyn , Cheruiyot Stanley , Otieno Edward , Agoti Charles N. , Bejon Philip , Thumbi Samuel M. , Warimwe George M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Chikungunya fever (CHIKF) was first described in Tanzania in 1952. Several epidemics including East Africa have occurred, but there are no descriptions of longitudinal surveillance of endemic disease. Here, we estimate the incidence of CHIKF in coastal Kenya and describe the associated viral phylogeny.

Methods

We monitored acute febrile illnesses among 3500 children visiting two primary healthcare facilities in coastal Kenya over a 5-year period (2014–2018). Episodes were linked to a demographic surveillance system and blood samples obtained. Cross-sectional sampling in a community survey of a different group of 435 asymptomatic children in the same study location was done in 2016. Reverse-transcriptase PCR was used for chikungunya virus (CHIKV) screening, and viral genomes sequenced for phylogenetic analyses.

Results

We found CHIKF to be endemic in this setting, associated with 12.7% (95% CI 11.60, 13.80) of all febrile presentations to primary healthcare. The prevalence of CHIKV infections among asymptomatic children in the community survey was 0.7% (95% CI 0.22, 2.12). CHIKF incidence among children < 1 year of age was 1190 cases/100,000-person years and 63 cases/100,000-person years among children aged ≥10 years. Recurrent CHIKF episodes, associated with fever and viraemia, were observed among 19 of 170 children with multiple febrile episodes during the study period. All sequenced viral genomes mapped to the ECSA genotype albeit distinct from CHIKV strains associated with the 2004 East African epidemic.

Conclusions

CHIKF may be a substantial public health burden in primary healthcare on the East African coast outside epidemic years, and recurrent infections are common.
Correction to: Pharmacodynamics of efavirenz 400 mg in treatment-naïve Chinese HIV-infected patients in a prospective cohort study
Authors: Xu Ling , Peng Wenxiu , Song Xiaojing , Li Yanling , Han Yang , Zhu Ting , Fu Qiang , Du Xiaoli , Cao Wei , Li Taisheng
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Genetic epidemiological characteristics of a Hungarian subpopulation of patients with Huntington’s disease
Authors: Despotov Katalin , Zádori Dénes , Veres Gábor , Jakab Katalin , Gárdián Gabriella , Tóth Eszter , Kincses Tamás Zsigmond , Vécsei László , Ajtay András , Bereczki Dániel , Klivényi Péter
Published: February 2021

Background

Recent advances in therapeutic options may prevent deterioration related to Huntington’s disease (HD), even at the pre-symptomatic stage. Be that as it may, a well-characterized patient population is essential for screening and monitoring outcome. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of a Hungarian subpopulation of HD patients and mutation carriers diagnosed at the University of Szeged.

Methods

We conducted a search for International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code G10H0 in the local medical database for the period of 1 January 1998 to 31 December 2018.

Results

We identified 90 HD cases (male: 45, female: 45) and 34 asymptomatic carriers (male: 15, female: 19). The median age of onset was 45 years (range: 16–79). There were 3 cases of juvenile onset (3.3%), and 7 of late disease onset (7.8%). The median repeat length was 43 (range: 36–70) for the pathological and 19 for the non-pathological alleles (range: 9–35). 17.5% of the pathological alleles were in the decreased penetrance range, while 7% of non-pathological alleles were intermediate.

Conclusions

The genetic and clinical features of the population examined in the present study were in line with the previous Hungarian study, as well as with international literature. The exceptions were the higher ratio of reduced penetrance and intermediate alleles.
Advancing research to eliminate mental illness stigma: an interventional study to improve community attitudes towards depression among University students in Singapore
Authors: GOH Chong Min Janrius , SHAHWAN Shazana , LAU Jue Hua , ONG Wei Jie , TAN Gregory Tee Hng , SAMARI Ellaisha , KWOK Kian Woon , SUBRAMANIAM Mythily , CHONG Siow Ann
Published: February 2021

Background

After decades of anti-stigma initiatives, the Advancing Research To Eliminate Mental Illness Stigma (ARTEMIS) intervention study is one of the first in Singapore to evaluate the effects of an anti-stigma intervention on attitudes towards depression in university students.

Methods

390 university students from a local university in Singapore were voluntarily recruited for the study. The ARTEMIS intervention comprises an educational and social contact component, as well as a question and answer (Q&A) session with experts in the area of mental health. The Community Attitudes towards Mental Illness (CAMI) scale was administered at baseline, post-intervention and at 3-months follow-up. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted.

Results

The CFA identified a 3-factor model for the CAMI with a decent fit (RMSEA = 0.06, CFI = 0.93, TLI = 0.93, SRMR = 0.06). Favourable shifts in attitudes across the factors were observed immediately after the intervention (p <  0.001). Gender (β = − 1.19, 95% CI: − 2.10, − 0.27,p = 0.01) and nationality (β = − 1.23, 95% CI: − 2.35, − 0.11,p = 0.03) were identified as significant correlates for the community mental health ideology (CMHI) factor. Linear effects indicated that having a close social contact with mental illness observed a smaller decrease in authoritarianism scores from pre- to post-intervention (β = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.18, 1.53,p = 0.01); whereas quadratic effects found a greater decrease in scores from post-intervention to after 3-months for benevolence (β = − 0.34, 95% CI: − 0.52, − 0.16,p <  0.001) and CMHI (β = − 0.22, 95% CI: − 0.45, − 0.002,p = 0.048).

Conclusion

The anti-stigma intervention shows promising short-term results across the CAMI dimensions even after adjusting for sociodemographic correlates. However, the intervention did not observe the sustained attitude shifts after 3-months. Recommendations for future anti-stigma interventions were also considered.
Surgical outcomes of two kinds of demineralized bone matrix putties/local autograft composites in instrumented posterolateral lumbar fusion
Authors: Chang Dong-Gune , Park Jong-Beom , Han Yangjun
Published: February 2021

Background

This study aimed to assess the surgical outcomes of two kinds of demineralized bone matrix (DBM) putties/local autograft composites in instrumented posterolateral lumbar fusion (PLF).

Methods

Twenty-seven fusion segments of 19 patients, who underwent decompression and instrumented PLF for lumbar spinal stenosis or degenerative spondylolisthesis less than grade 1, were included in this study. The PLF mass consisted of different two kinds of DBMs (Grafton® and DBX®) and local autograft. Next, 7.5 cc of Grafton® DBM/local autograft composite was implanted on the left side, and the same amount of DBX® DBM/local autograft composite was implanted on the right side in the same patient. The PLF masses of 54 total sides (27 Grafton® sides and 27 DBX® sides) were assessed for fusion based on both flexion/extension lateral radiographs and computed tomography images at 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Clinical symptoms were also evaluated.

Results

At 12 months postoperatively, the fusion rates for the Grafton® and DBX® sides were 59.5 and 51.9%, respectively; the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.425). At 24 months postoperatively, the fusion rates for the Grafton® and DBX® sides increased to 70.4 and 66.7%, respectively, but the difference was still not statistically significant (P = 0.574). Diabetes mellitus, smoking, and obesity (body mass index ≥25) negatively affected the fusion rate of both the Grafton® and DBX® sides. Visual analog scores for lower back pain and leg pain and Oswestry Disability Index were significantly improved after surgery (both,P < 0.01). No deep or superficial infections occurred postoperatively. No patients underwent revision surgery due to nonunion during follow-up.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that two kinds of DBMs/local autograft composites might be considered as useful bone graft substitute in instrumented posterolateral fusion for lumbar spinal stenosis or degenerative spondylolisthesis less than grade 1.
Determinants of diabetes ketoacidosis among diabetes mellitus patients at North Wollo and Waghimra zone public hospitals, Amhara region, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Getie Addisu , Wondmieneh Adam , Bimerew Melaku , Gedefaw Getnet , Demis Asmamaw
Published: February 2021

Background

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder associated with acute and chronic complications. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the most serious diabetic emergency in patients with type one and type two diabetes mellitus. It is the leading cause of mortality in children and young adults. Even though the burden of DKA has increased, no research has been conducted on the determinants of Diabetes ketoacidosis in Ethiopia, particularly in the Amhara region. Thus, this study aimed to identify the determinants of diabetes Ketoacidosis among Diabetes Mellitus patients at North Wollo and Waghimra Zone public Hospitals.

Methods

An institution-based unmatched case-control study design was employed among 408 patients at North Wollo and Waghimra Zone Public Hospitals from March 1st to April 30th, 2020. A consecutive sampling method was used to select study participants. The data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questioners and reviewing of patient charts. The analysis was done using a binary logistic regression model. Then, P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Result

The mean (±SD) age of the study participants was 46.96 (± 15.175 SD) years. Irregular follow-up in diabetes clinic (AOR:4.19, 95% CI: 2.28–7.71), not received diabetic education (AOR: 2.87, 95% CI:1.44–5.72), alcohol drinking (AOR:2.99, 95% CI: 1.46–6.12), discontinuation of medications (AOR: 4.31, 95% CI:1.92–9.68), presence of comorbidity (AOR:2.57, 95% CI: 1.37–4.84), and being type one of diabetes mellitus (AOR: 2.01, 95% CI:1.11–3.63) were determinant factors of diabetic ketoacidosis .

Conclusions

This study showed that the behavioral and clinical characteristics of diabetic patients were determinant factors of DKA. Follow-up in the diabetic clinic, diabetic education, discontinuation of medications, alcohol drinking, presence of comorbidities, and type of diabetes mellitus were independent determinants of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Measures of empathy and the capacity for self-reflection in dental and medical students
Authors: Paloniemi Elina , Mikkola Ilona , Vatjus Ritva , Jokelainen Jari , Timonen Markku , Hagnäs Maria
Published: February 2021

Background

Empathy and self-reflection have been studied among medical students, but fewer studies have examined the presence of these attributes among dental students and investigated the correlation between empathy and self-reflection.

Methods

First-year dental and medical students (n = 198) beginning their studies at the University of Oulu, Finland in August 2017 participated in this study, which was conducted via an internet-based questionnaire. Data were collected on personal characteristics and scores on Davis’s Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) and Roberts’s Self Reflection and Insight Scale (SRIS).

Results

Differences in IRI scores between dental and medical students were significant only in male students and in two IRI domains. Mean (SD) scores for male dental and medical students were personal distress, 8.2 (4.0) and 10.7 (3.1) (p = 0.022); empathic concern, 15.0 (4.0) and 16.9 (3.5) (p = 0.054). Mean SRIS scores did not differ between sexes or training programs. Positive correlations (r = − 0.3–0.65) were observed between some empathy and self-reflection subscales.

Conclusions

A lower degree of empathy was observed among male dental students than in male medical students. A positive correlation between empathy and self-reflection was demonstrated in both study groups and sexes. However, more research in this field is warranted.
Should biomedical research with great apes be restricted? A systematic review of reasons
Authors: Aguilera Bernardo , Perez Gomez Javiera , DeGrazia David
Published: February 2021

Background

The use of great apes (GA) in invasive biomedical research is one of the most debated topics in animal ethics. GA are, thus far, the only animal group that has frequently been banned from invasive research; yet some believe that these bans could inaugurate a broader trend towards greater restrictions on the use of primates and other animals in research. Despite ongoing academic and policy debate on this issue, there is no comprehensive overview of the reasons advanced for or against restricting invasive research with GA. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic review of the reasons reported in the academic literature on this topic.

Methods

Seven databases were searched for articles published in English. Two authors screened the titles, abstracts, and full texts of all articles. Two journals specialized in animal ethics, and the reference lists of included articles were subsequently also reviewed.

Results

We included 60 articles, most of which were published between 2006 and 2016. Twenty-five articles argued for a total ban of GA research, 21 articles defended partial restrictions, and 14 articles argued against restrictions. Overall, we identified 110 reason types, 74 for, and 36 against, restricting GA research. Reasons were grouped into nine domains: moral standing, science, welfare, public and expert attitudes, retirement and conservation, respect and rights, financial costs, law and legal status, and longer-term consequences.

Conclusion

Our review generated five main findings. First, there is a trend in the academic debate in favor of restricting GA research that parallels worldwide policy changes in the same direction. Second, in several domains (e.g., moral standing, and respect and rights), the reasons were rather one-sided in favor of restrictions. Third, some prominent domains (e.g., science and welfare) featured considerable engagement between opposing positions. Fourth, there is low diversity and independence among authors, including frequent potential conflicts of interests in articles defending a strong position (i.e., favoring a total ban or arguing against restrictions). Fifth, scholarly discussion was not the norm, as reflected in a high proportion of non-peer-reviewed articles and authors affiliated to non-academic institutions.
Understanding health-seeking and adherence to treatment by patients with esophageal cancer at the Uganda cancer Institute: a qualitative study
Authors: Esther Nakimuli , Julius Ssentongo , Deogratius Mwaka Amos
Published: February 2021

Background

In the low- and middle-income countries, most patients with esophageal cancer present with advanced stage disease and experience poor survival. There is inadequate understanding of the factors that influence decisions to and actual health-seeking, and adherence to treatment regimens among esophageal cancer patients in Uganda, yet this knowledge is critical in informing interventions to promote prompt health-seeking, diagnosis at early stage and access to appropriate cancer therapy to improve survival. We explored health-seeking experiences and adherence to treatment among esophageal cancer patients attending the Uganda Cancer Institute.

Methods

We conducted an interview based qualitative study at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI). Participants included patients with established histology diagnosis of esophageal cancer and healthcare professionals involved in the care of these patients. We used purposive sampling approach to select study participants. In-depth and key informant interviews were used in data collection. Data collection was conducted till point of data saturation was reached. Thematic content analysis approach was used in data analyses and interpretations. Themes and subthemes were identified deductively.

Results

Sixteen patients and 17 healthcare professionals were included in the study. Delayed health-seeking and poor adherence to treatment were related to (i) emotional and psychosocial factors including stress of cancer diagnosis, stigma related to esophageal cancer symptoms, and fear of loss of jobs and livelihood, (ii) limited knowledge and recognition of esophageal cancer symptoms by both patients and primary healthcare professionals, and (iii) limited access to specialized cancer care, mainly because of long distance to the facility and associated high transport cost. Patients were generally enthused with patient – provider relationships at the UCI. While inadequate communication and some degree of incivility were reported, majority of patients thought the healthcare professionals were empathetic and supportive.

Conclusion

Health system and individual patient factors influence health-seeking for symptoms of esophageal cancer and adherence to treatment schedule for the disease. Interventions to improve access to and acceptability of esophageal cancer services, as well as increase public awareness of esophageal cancer risk factors and symptoms could lead to earlier diagnosis and potentially better survival from the disease in Uganda.
Antibody responses to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, influenza A virus, and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae from weaning to the end of the finisher stage in fourteen groups of pigs in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Raaphorst Elana , Farzan Abdolvahab , Friendship Robert M. , Lillie Brandon N.
Published: February 2021

Background

Respiratory diseases are among the most important factors affecting swine farm productivity in Canada. The objectives of this study were to investigate antibody responses to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), influenza A virus (IAV), andMycoplasma hyopneumoniae(M. hyopneumoniae) from weaning to the end of the finisher stage on a subset of commercial swine farms in Ontario, Canada, and to examine the association between nursery diet and antibody responses.

Results

Overall, older pigs were more likely to test seropositive for PRRSV and less likely to test seropositive forM. hyopneumoniae(p <  0.001). Pigs were more likely to test seropositive for IAV at weaning and the end of the grower and finisher stages compared to the end of nursery (p <  0.001). Pigs that were seropositive for IAV were more likely to test seropositive for both PRRSV andM. hyopneumoniae(p <  0.001). Two, 9, and 4 groups that had more than 20% of pigs seropositive to PRRSV, IAV, andM. hyopneumoniae, respectively, from the end of nursery to the end of finisher were classified as seropositive. Pigs fed a plant-based (low complexity) diet during nursery were more likely to be seropositive for PRRSV (p <  0.001) but there were no significant differences in seropositivity to IAV orM. hyopneumoniaedue to nursery diet complexity.

Conclusions

This study provides information regarding changes in serum antibody in pigs across different stages of production and highlights periods of vulnerability. Additionally, these findings may encourage further research into the effects of nursery diet complexity on disease susceptibility and immune response.
Synthesis, characterisation and cytotoxicity of gold microwires for ultra-sensitive biosensor development
Authors: Lah Nurul Akmal Che , Gray Robert , Trigueros Sonia
Published: February 2021

With the long-term goal of developing an ultra-sensitive microcantilever-based biosensor for versatile biomarker detection, new controlled bioreceptor-analytes systems are being explored to overcome the disadvantages of conventional ones. Gold (Au) microwires have been used as a probe to overcome the tolerance problem that occurs in response to changes in environmental conditions. However, the cytotoxicity of Au microwires is still unclear. Here, we examined the cytotoxicity of Au microwires systems using both commercial and as-synthesised Au microwires. In vitro experiments show that commercial Au microwires with an average quoted length of 5.6 µm are highly toxic against Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) at 50 µg/mL. However, this toxicity is due to the presence of CTAB surfactant not by the microwires. Conversely, the as-synthesised Au microwires show non-cytotoxicity even at the maximum viable concentration (330 µg/mL). These findings may lead to the development of potentially life-saving cytotoxicity-free biosensors for an early diagnostic of potential diseases.
Targeting SNHG3/miR-186-5p reverses the increased m6A level caused by platinum treatment through regulating METTL3 in esophageal cancer
Authors: Zhang Mingxin , Bai Minghua , Wang Li , Lu Ning , Wang Jia , Yan Rong , Cui Manli , Yan Honglin , Zhang Lingmin
Published: February 2021

Background

Platinum-based chemotherapy is a mainstay for treating esophageal cancer patients. In this manuscript, we have provided clues for influence of platinum on overall m6A level and further investigated the potential regulatory mechanism.

Methods

qRT-PCR was used to measure SNHG3 and miR-186-5p expression; ELISA and western blot were used to measure the expression of METTL3. CCK8 was used to measure the cell proliferation rate. Caspase 3/7 activity was used to measure the apoptosis rate. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA pull down assay were used to investigate the potential crosstalk between miR-186-5p and SNHG3; and miR-186-5p and METTL3.

Results

m6A level was increased when treated with platinum (CDDP, CPB and L-OHP). Besides, SNHG3 expression was induced and miR-186-5p expression was suppressed by platinum. Furthermore, SNHG3 could promote the m6A level, however miR-186-5p inhibited the m6A level through targeting METTL3. SNHG3 interacts with miR-186-5p to negatively regulate the expression of miR-186-5p; and miR-186-5p might bind to the 3′UTR of METTL3 to regulate its expression.

Conclusion

Platinum can increase the overall m6A level of esophageal cancer. SNHG3/miR-186-5p, induced by platinum, was involved in regulating m6A level by targeting METTL3. Our manuscript has provided clues that regulating m6A level might be a novel way to enhance the platinum efficacy.
Improvement of Indoor Residual Spraying and Long‐Lasting Insecticidal Net services through structured monitoring and supervision as part of the Malaria Elimination Demonstration Project in Mandla, Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Mishra Ashok K. , Nisar Sekh , Rajvanshi Harsh , Bharti Praveen K. , Saha Kalyan B. , Shukla Man Mohan , Sharma Ravendra K. , Jayswar Himanshu , Das Aparup , Kaur Harpreet , Wattal Suman L. , Lal Altaf A.
Published: February 2021

Background

The Government of Madhya Pradesh employed Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) with alpha-cypermethrin synthetic pyrethroids in sub-centres with Annual Parasite Incidence (API) from 2 to 4.99. In sub-centres with API more than 5, Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) were distributed. At the request of the State Government, the Malaria Elimination Demonstration Project (MEDP) staff observed and provided support to both IRS and LLINs campaigns. In the year 2017, the study team monitored only the IRS campaigns, however, in the year 2018, the supportive supervision was provided to the IRS campaign teams along with post-distribution monitoring of the LLINs.

Methods

The study was carried out during IRS spraying using a pre-tested, closed-ended monitoring checklist which consisted of two parts- observations of spraying team and observation of sprayed houses. For LLINs, a sample of the households that received the bed nets was taken for the study. For IRS, the spraying teams were monitored for quality and technique for a total of 159 times in 2017 and 183 times in the year 2018, respectively. For post spraying observations, a total of 1261 and 1791 households were observed in the years 2017 and 2018, respectively. The use of LLINs was observed in 5 % of the households in 2018 and 2020, which is about 2,000 houses in each survey where each house received about 2.5 LLINs per household. The results of surveys were compared to assess impact of supportive supervision and monitoring.

Results

Significant improvement was noted after supportive supervision in year 2018 in various aspects of spraying. Preparedness of spraying, such as advance information to villagers, presence of equipment and records improved by up to 70 %. The methodology of spraying preparation improved from 50 to 90 %, spraying technique improved from 54 to 80 %, and proper use equipment during spraying improved from 51 to 92 %. After eight months post distribution of the LLINs in 2019, improvement was seen in regular usage of LLINs by 28 %. It was found that on-spot demonstrations during distribution and carrying of LLINs when sleeping outside homes increased by 56 %. Results of IEC campaigns revealed the reduction in adverse effects by 64 % and increase in awareness by 97 %.

Conclusions

Effective supervision improved the quality of IRS and usage of LLINs in the study area. Based on these results, continued training and monitoring of staff that is deployed to spraying houses and distribute bed nets was suggested. The study also revealed that proper IEC/BCC drives help increase community acceptance of vector control measures and their rational usage.
Identification of lipidomic profiles associated with drug-resistant prostate cancer cells
Authors: Ingram Lishann M. , Finnerty Morgan C. , Mansoura Maryam , Chou Chau-Wen , Cummings Brian S.
Published: February 2021

Background

The association of circulating lipids with clinical outcomes of drug-resistant castration-resistant prostate cancer (DR-CRPC) is not fully understood. While it is known that increases in select lipids correlate to decreased survival, neither the mechanisms mediating these alterations nor the correlation of resistance to drug treatments is well characterized.

Methods

This gap-in-knowledge was addressed using in vitro models of non-cancerous, hormone-sensitive, CRPC and drug-resistant cell lines combined with quantitative LC-ESI-Orbitrap-MS (LC-ESI-MS/MS) lipidomic analysis and subsequent analysis such as Metaboanalyst and Lipid Pathway Enrichment Analysis (LIPEA).

Results

Several lipid regulatory pathways were identified that are associated with Docetaxel resistance in prostate cancer (PCa). These included those controlling glycerophospholipid metabolism, sphingolipid signaling and ferroptosis. In total, 7460 features were identified as being dysregulated between the cell lines studied, and 21 lipid species were significantly altered in drug-resistant cell lines as compared to nonresistant cell lines. Docetaxel resistance cells (PC3-Rx and DU145-DR) had higher levels of phosphatidylcholine (PC), oxidized lipid species, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and sphingomyelin (SM) as compared to parent control cells (PC-3 and DU-145). Alterations were also identified in the levels of phosphatidic acid (PA) and diacylglyceride (DAG), whose levels are regulated by Lipin (LPIN), a phosphatidic acid phosphatase that converts PA to DAG. Data derived from cBioPortal demonstrated a population of PCa patients expressing mutations aligning with amplification of LPIN1, LPIN2 and LPIN3 genes. Lipin amplification in these genes correlated to decreased survival in these patients. Lipin-1 mRNA expression also showed a similar trend in PCa patient data. Lipin-1, but not Lipin-2 or − 3, was detected in several prostate cancer cells, and was increased in 22RV1 and PC-3 cell lines. The increased expression of Lipin-1 in these cells correlated with the level of PA.

Conclusion

These data identify lipids whose levels may correlate to Docetaxel sensitivity and progression of PCa. The data also suggest a correlation between the expression of Lipin-1 in cells and patients with regards to prostate cancer cell aggressiveness and patient survivability. Ultimately, these data may be useful for identifying markers of lethal and/or metastatic prostate cancer.
Effect of docosahexaenoic acid plus insulin on atherosclerotic human endothelial cells
Authors: Abriz Aysan Eslami , Rahbarghazi Reza , Nourazarian Alireza , Avci Çıgır Biray , Mahboob Soltan Ali , Rahnema Maryam , Araghi Atefeh , Heidarzadeh Morteza
Published: February 2021

Background

Atherosclerosis is touted as one of the most critical consequences of diabetes mellitus indicated by local inflammation of endothelial cells. The Effect of Omega 3 fatty acids, mainly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been investigated in cells after exposure to high doses of lipids. The current experiment aimed to address the modulatory effects of docosahexaenoic acid and insulin in palmitic-treated human endothelial cells.

Methods

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with 1 mM palmitic acid, 50 μM insulin, 50 μM docosahexaenoic acid, and their combination for 48 h. Cell survival rate and apoptosis were measured using MTT and flow cytometry assays. The Griess assay detected NO levels. Protein levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB were studied using ELISA and immunofluorescence imaging. The expression of genes participating in atherosclerosis was monitored using PCR array analysis.

Results

Oil Red O staining showed the inhibitory effect of DHA and insulin to reduce the intracellular accumulation of palmitic acid. Both DHA and Insulin blunted palmitic acid detrimental effects on HUVECs indicated by an increased survival rate (p < 0.05). The percent of apoptotic cells was decreased in palmitic-treated cells received insulin and DHA compared to palmitic-treated group (p < 0.05). Based on our data, DHA and Insulin diminished the production of all inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB, in palmitic-treated cells (p < 0.05). Similar to these data, NO production was also decreased in all groups treated with insulin and DHA compared to the palmitic-treated cells (p < 0.05). PCR array analysis revealed the modulatory effect of DHA and insulin on the expression of atherosclerosis-related genes pre-treated with palmitic acid compared to the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

DHA and Insulin could alter the dynamic growth and dysfunctional activity of human endothelial cells after treatment with palmitic acid. Taken together, Omega 3 fatty acids, along with insulin, could dictate specific cell behavior in endothelial cells in vitro.
Resilience and mental health among juveniles: role of strategies for coping with stress
Authors: Konaszewski Karol , Niesiobędzka Małgorzata , Surzykiewicz Janusz
Published: February 2021

Background

Mental health is an important aspect of the process of individual adaptation and development. The present study analysed the role played by resilience in mental health while taking into account both positive and negative indicators among juveniles. The aim of the first study (Study 1) is to analyse the relationship between resilience and the broadly understood mental health of juveniles admitted to youth education centres. Study 2 aimed to understand the direct and indirect role of resilience in shaping the mental health of juveniles. In the model we tested, we looked at the relationship among resilience, coping strategies, and mental well-being.

Methods

The first study involved 201 juveniles, and the second involved 253 juveniles. Resilience was measured by the Resilience Scale-14. Coping strategies were measured with the Brief-COPE Questionnaire, and information on mental health was obtained using the Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale.

Results

The results of both studies have shown that resilience is an important predictor of the mental health of juveniles, primarily with respect to its positive indicator. The stronger the severity of resilience, the greater the satisfaction with life and mental well-being of the juveniles surveyed. In addition, two coping strategies (seeking support from others and coping through emotions) mediated the relationship between resilience and mental well-being.

Conclusions

The results obtained indicate that work at the level of juvenile resilience leads to the strengthening of positive mental health indicators and buffering of negative indicators.
Serum progesterone levels greater than 32.5 ng/ml on the day of embryo transfer are associated with lower live birth rate after artificial endometrial preparation: a prospective study
Authors: Alyasin Ashraf , Agha-Hosseini Marzieh , Kabirinasab Motahareh , Saeidi Hojatollah , Nashtaei Maryam Shabani
Published: February 2021

Background

Previous observational studies have highlighted the negative effects of serum hormone levels at the minimum threshold during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. However, still the questions regarding the maximum threshold level, and the highest allowed dosage of hormonal medications remain unresolved. The present study was conducted to determine whether there is any relationship between the serum progesterone and estradiol levels on the day of ET, and live birth rate (LBR) in patients receiving HRT in FET cycles.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, eligible women who were undergoing their first or second FET cycles with the top graded blastocyst stage embryos were included. All patients received the same HRT regimen. FET was scheduled 5 days after administration of the first dosage of progesterone. On the morning of ET, 4–6 h after the last dose of progesterone supplementation, the serum progesterone (P4, ng/ml) and estradiol (E2, pg/ml) levels were measured.

Results

Amongst the 258 eligible women that were evaluated, the overall LBR was 34.1 % (88/258). The serum P4 and E2 values were divided into four quartiles. The means of women’s age and BMI were similar between the four quartiles groups. Regarding both P4 and E2 values, it was found that the LBR was significantly lower in the highest quartile group (Q4) compared with the others, (P = 0.002 and P = 0.042, respectively). The analysis of the multivariable logistic regression showed that the serum level of P4 on ET day, was the only significant predictive variable for LBR. The ROC curve revealed a significant predictive value of serum P4 levels on the day of ET for LBR, with an AUC = 0.61 (95 % CI: 0.54–0.68, P = 0.002). The optimum level of serum P4, with 70 % sensitivity and 50 %specificity for LBR, was 32.5 ng/ml.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that a serum P4 value at the maximum threshold on the day of FET is associated with reduced LBR following blastocyst transfer. Therefore, measuring and monitoring of P4 levels during FET cycles might be necessary. However, the results regarding the necessity for the screening of serum E2 levels before ET, are still controversial, and further prospective studies are required.
Predictive factors of the general public’s willingness to be seen and seek treatment from a nurse practitioner in Australia: a cross-sectional national survey
Authors: Dwyer Trudy , Craswell Alison , Browne Matthew
Published: February 2021

Background

Health care delivery in Australia is experiencing challenges with services struggling to keep up with the increasing demands of an aging population, rising levels of chronic disease and limited funding for care. Where adjunct models of health care such as the Nurse Practitioner (NP) have the potential to address this gap, in Australia, they remain an underutilised service. Clarifying the nature of the consumers ‘willingness’ to be seen by NPs warrants further investigation.

Methods

Australia-wide, cross-sectional population-based survey was undertaken using computer-assisted telephone interviewing technique.

Results

While just over 53% of the general public participants (n = 1318) had heard of an NP, once they became aware of their scope of practice, the majority agreed or strongly agreed they were willing to be seen by an NP in the community (91.6%), the emergency department 88.2%), to manage chronic conditions (86%), to have scrips written and referrals made (85.3%), and if they did not have to wait so long to see a medical doctor (81%). Factors significantly predicting willingness were being: female, less than 65 years of age, native English speakers, or residents from town/regional and rural settings.

Conclusion

Despite limited awareness of the NP role, a large proportion of the Australian population, across different demographic groups, are willing to be seen and treated by an NP. Expansion of this role to support medical services in areas of need could improve healthcare delivery.
An analysis of the services provided by community health workers within an urban district in South Africa: a key contribution towards universal access to care
Authors: Thomas L. S. , Buch E. , Pillay Y.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Community health worker teams are potential game-changers in ensuring access to care in vulnerable communities. Who are they? What do they actually do? Can they help South Africa realize universal health coverage? As the proactive arm of the health services, community health workers teams provide household and community education, early screening, tracing and referrals for a range of health and social services. There is little local or global evidence on the household services provided by such teams, beyond specific disease-oriented activities such as for HIV and TB. This paper seeks to address this gap.

Methods

Descriptive secondary data analysis of community health worker team activities in the Ekurhuleni health district, South Africa covering approximately 280,000 households with 1 million people.

Results

Study findings illustrated that community health workers in these teams provided early screening and referrals for pregnant women and children under five. They distributed condoms and chronic medication to homes. They screened and referred for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, HIV and TB. The teams also undertook defaulter and contact tracing, the majority of which was for HIV and TB clients. Psychosocial support provided was in the form of access to social grants, access to child and gender-based violence protection services, food parcels and other services.

Conclusion

Community health workers form the core of these teams and perform several health and psychosocial services in households and poor communities in South Africa, in addition to general health education. The teams studied provided a range of activities across many health conditions (mother and child related, HIV and TB, non-communicable diseases), as well as social services. These teams provided comprehensive care in a large-scale urban setting and can improve access to care.
Restoration of bilateral motor coordination from preserved agonist-antagonist coupling in amputation musculature
Authors: Shu Tony , Huang Shan Shan , Shallal Christopher , Herr Hugh M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Neuroprosthetic devices controlled by persons with standard limb amputation often lack the dexterity of the physiological limb due to limitations of both the user’s ability to output accurate control signals and the control system’s ability to formulate dynamic trajectories from those signals. To restore full limb functionality to persons with amputation, it is necessary to first deduce and quantify the motor performance of the missing limbs, then meet these performance requirements through direct, volitional control of neuroprosthetic devices.

Methods

We develop a neuromuscular modeling and optimization paradigm for the agonist-antagonist myoneural interface, a novel tissue architecture and neural interface for the control of myoelectric prostheses, that enables it to generate virtual joint trajectories coordinated with an intact biological joint at full physiologically-relevant movement bandwidth. In this investigation, a baseline of performance is first established in a population of non-amputee control subjects ($$n = 8$$n=8). Then, a neuromuscular modeling and optimization technique is advanced that allows unilateral AMI amputation subjects ($$n = 5$$n=5) and standard amputation subjects ($$n = 4$$n=4) to generate virtual subtalar prosthetic joint kinematics using measured surface electromyography (sEMG) signals generated by musculature within the affected leg residuum.

Results

Using their optimized neuromuscular subtalar models under blindfolded conditions with only proprioceptive feedback, AMI amputation subjects demonstrate bilateral subtalar coordination accuracy not significantly different from that of the non-amputee control group (Kolmogorov-Smirnov test,$$P \ge 0.052$$P≥0.052) while standard amputation subjects demonstrate significantly poorer performance (Kolmogorov-Smirnov test,$$P < 0.001$$P<0.001).

Conclusions

These results suggest that the absence of an intact biological joint does not necessarily remove the ability to produce neurophysical signals with sufficient information to reconstruct physiological movements. Further, the seamless manner in which virtual and intact biological joints are shown to coordinate reinforces the theory that desired movement trajectories are mentally formulated in an abstract task space which does not depend on physical limb configurations.
Immunostimulatory siRNA with a uridine bulge leads to potent inhibition of HBV and activation of innate immunity
Authors: Lan Tingyu , Wei Zhiqiang , He Yulin , Wan Song , Liu Li , Cheng Bin , Li Ruimin , Chen Hongxia , Liu Guohua , Meng Zhongji
Published: February 2021

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is difficult to cure. HBV-specific immune tolerance plays a key role in HBV persistence, and enhancing cellular and humoral immunity will improve the control of HBV infection. The purpose of the study was to explore the anti-HBV and immunostimulatory effects of msiRNAs that introduce unpaired uridine bulges in the passenger strand.

Methods

msiRNAs targeting the HBV S and X genes were designed and named msiHBs and msiHBx, respectively. HepG2 cells were cotransfected with siRNA or msiRNA and the HBV replication-competent plasmid pHY106-wta or pHY106-X15. HepG2.215 cells were transfected with siRNA or msiRNA. The levels of HBsAg, HBeAg, and the cytokines TNF-α, IFN-α, IFN-β, IL-1α, and IL-6 in the culture supernatant was detected by ELISA. The levels of intracellular HBV RNA, nuclear HBV replication intermediates, and HBV DNA in the supernatant were measured by quantitative RT-PCR and PCR. The levels of HBV replication intermediates were detected by Southern blotting. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were transfected with siRNA or msiRNA, and the levels of secreted cytokines IFN-α and IFN-β were detected by ELISA. The bioactivity of type I interferons in the supernatants was detected by the virus protection assay.

Results

msiHBx treatment led to a significant decrease in HBsAg (to a negative level) and HBV DNA (95.5%) in the supernatant and intrahepatocellular HBV replication intermediates (89.8%) in HepG2 cells with transient HBV replication and in HepG2.2.15 cells. There was no significant difference between msiHBx and siHBx in terms of the reduction in HBV proteins and HBV replication (P > 0.05). Compared with siHBx, msiHBx treatment of HepG2 cells transfected with the HBV replication-competent plasmid led to a significant increase in the levels of the antiviral cytokines TNF-α (3.3-fold), IFN-α (1.4-fold), and IFN-β (2.5-fold) (P < 0.01), without upregulation of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1α and IL-6. The virus protection assay results showed msiHBx-mediated type I interferons effectively protected L929 cells against ECMV infection.

Conclusions

msiHBx could effectively inhibit HBV expression and replication and induce an antiviral innate immune response without proinflammatory activation. The dual RNAi and immunostimulatory activity of msiRNAs may play an important role in the control of HBV infection.