bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The validity and reliability of quality of life questionnaires in patients with ankylosing spondylitis and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: He Qian , Luo Jing , Chen Jiaqi , Yang Jianying , Yao Chuanhui , Xu Caiqin , Tao Qingwen
Published: July 2022

Background

Patients who suffered from ankylosing spondylitis (AS) or non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) often have poor quality of life (QoL) and there has been a substantial increase in research on acceptable questionnaires for assessment of QoL. This systematic review aims at examining the validity and reliability of QoL questionnaires in patients with AS/nr-axSpA.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort trials, and cross-sectional trails were retrieved by searching seven databases. Primary outcomes included test–retest reliability and construct validity. Secondary outcomes included internal consistency, structural validity, responsiveness and so on. Data extraction and analyses were conducted according to the Cochrane standards. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) checklists was used to assess the risk of bias for each included study. We used the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) to assess the methodological quality and measurement property of included instruments. The quality of evidence on pre-specified outcomes were assessed by the Grades of Recommendations, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Results

22 publications containing 10 self-rating instruments were included in this study. Most studies were cross-sectional in design and a total of 3,085 participants were enrolled. 19 studies had moderate to high test–retest reliability. Cronbach’s alpha (α) Coefficients were generally high (0.79–0.97) for overall scales. The ankylosing spondylitis quality of life (ASQOL) and evaluation of ankylosing spondylitis quality of life (EASi-QoL) questionnaires showed the strongest measurement properties in high-quality studies. The correlation coefficient for test–retest reliability of the ASQOL questionnaire was 0.85 (95% CI 0.80 to 0.89). The pooled Cronbach’s α coefficients of the ASQOL questionnaire and the EASi-QoL questionnaire were high. Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) were considered as two validity criteria. For the ASQOL and EASi-QoL questionnaire, pooled convergent validity associations with BASDAI and BASFI were low to strong (0.24–0.81).

Conclusions

This study indicated acceptable reliability and stability of included QoL questionnaires. The ASQOL and the EASi-QoL questionnaires are validated and reliable disease-specific questionnaires for the assessment of QoL in patients with AS/nr-axSpA.
Facilitators and barriers to enhancing physical activity in older patients during acute hospital stay: a systematic review
Authors: Dijkstra F. , van der Sluis G. , Jager-Wittenaar H. , Hempenius L. , Hobbelen J. S. M. , Finnema E.
Published: July 2022

Background

To improve older patients’ physical activity (PA) behavior, it is important to identify facilitators and barriers to enhancing PA in older patients (≥ 65 years) during hospitalization from the perspectives of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals (HCPs).

Methods

In this systematic review, a search of PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and Web of Science (January 2000–May 2021) was performed, and quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies were included. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Identified facilitators and barriers were categorized using the social ecological model at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and institutional levels.

Results

The 48 included articles identified 230 facilitators and 342 barriers. The main facilitators at the intrapersonal level included: knowledge, awareness, and attitudes; interpersonal level: social support, including encouragement and interdisciplinary collaboration; and institutional level: stimulating physical environment, patient activities and schedules, and PA protocols. The main barriers at the intrapersonal level included: physical health status, having lines or drains, patients’ fear, and HCPs’ safety concerns; interpersonal level: patient-HCP relation and HCPs’ unclear roles; and institutional level: lack of space and resources, including time and equipment. Best evidence synthesis provided moderate level of evidence for three barriers: patients’ unwillingness or refusal to move, patients having symptoms, and patients having lines or drains. No moderate level of evidence was found for facilitators.

Conclusion

The PA behavior of older adults during hospitalization is multidimensional. Our overview highlights facilitators and barriers on multilevel scale (intrapersonal, interpersonal, and institutional levels) that guides patients, caregivers, HCPs, and researchers in future clinical practice, and intervention development and implementation.
A latent transition analysis of physical activity and screen-based sedentary behavior from adolescence to young adulthood
Authors: Parker Kate , Cleland Verity , Dollman Jim , Gatta Jacqui Della , Hatt Jennifer , Timperio Anna
Published: July 2022

Background

Distinct typologies of physical activity and screen-based sedentary behaviors are common during adolescence, but it is unknown how these change over time. This longitudinal study examined the stability of activity-related behavioral typologies over the transition out of secondary school.

Methods

Year 11 students (penultimate school year) completed a self-report survey (baseline), which was repeated 2 years later (follow-up) (75% female, mean baseline age: 16.9 ± 0.4 years). Latent transition analysis identified typologies of physical activity and screen time behaviors and explored changes in typology membership between baseline and follow-up among those with complete data and who were not attending secondary school at follow-up (n = 803).

Results

Three unique typologies were identified and labelled as: 1) Sedentary gamers (baseline: 17%; follow-up: 15%: high levels of screen behaviors, particularly video gaming); 2) Inactives (baseline: 46%; follow-up: 48%: low physical activities, average levels of screen behaviors); and 3) Actives (baseline: 37%; follow-up: 37%: high physical activities, low screen behaviors). Most participants remained in the same typology (83.2%), 8.5% transitioned to a typology with a more health-enhancing profile and 8.3% transitioned to a typology with a more detrimental behavioral profile.

Conclusions

The high proportion within the ‘inactive’ typology and the stability of typologies over the transition period suggests that public health interventions are required to improve activity-related behavior typologies before adolescents leave secondary school.
The RNA-binding protein PCBP1 represses lung adenocarcinoma progression by stabilizing DKK1 mRNA and subsequently downregulating β-catenin
Authors: Zheng Yujia , Zhou Zheng , Wei Ran , Xiao Chu , Zhang Hao , Fan Tao , Zheng Bo , Li Chunxiang , He Jie
Published: July 2022

Background

PolyC-RNA-binding protein 1 (PCBP1) functions as a tumour suppressor and RNA regulator that is downregulated in human cancers. Here, we aimed to reveal the biological function of PCBP1 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

First, PCBP1 was identified as an important biomarker that maintains LUAD through The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project screening and confirmed by immunohistochemistry and qPCR. Via colony formation, CCK8, IncuCyte cell proliferation, wound healing and Transwell assays, we confirmed that PCBP1 was closely related to the proliferation and migration of LUAD cells. The downstream gene DKK1 was discovered by RNA sequencing of PCBP1 knockdown cells. The underlying mechanisms were further investigated using western blot, qPCR, RIP, RNA pulldown and mRNA stability assays.

Results

We demonstrate that PCBP1 is downregulated in LUAD tumour tissues. The reduction in PCBP1 promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion of LUAD in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the RNA-binding protein PCBP1 represses LUAD by stabilizing DKK1 mRNA. Subsequently, decreased expression of the DKK1 protein relieves the inhibitory effect on the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. Taken together, these results show that PCBP1 acts as a tumour suppressor gene, inhibiting the tumorigenesis of LUAD.

Conclusions

We found that PCBP1 inhibits LUAD development by upregulating DKK1 to inactivate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Our findings highlight the potential of PCBP1 as a promising therapeutic target.
Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1 autoantibody (ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj)-associated autoimmune cerebellar ataxia, encephalitis and peripheral neuropathy: review of the literature
Authors: Jarius Sven , Bräuninger Stefan , Chung Ha-Yeun , Geis Christian , Haas Jürgen , Komorowski Lars , Wildemann Brigitte , Roth Christian
Published: July 2022

Background

In 2014, we first described novel autoantibodies to the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1 (ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj) in patients with autoimmune cerebellar ataxia (ACA) in this journal. Here, we provide a review of the available literature on ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj, covering clinical and paraclinical presentation, tumour association, serological findings, and immunopathogenesis.

Methods

Review of the peer-reviewed and PubMed-listed English language literature on ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj. In addition, we provide an illustrative report on a new patient with ITPR1-IgG-associated encephalitis with cognitive decline and psychosis.

Results

So far, at least 31 patients with serum ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj have been identified (clinical information available for 21). The most common manifestations were ACA, encephalopathy with seizures, myelopathy, and (radiculo)neuropathy, including autonomic neuropathy. In 45% of cases, an underlying tumour was present, making the condition a facultative paraneoplastic neurological disorder. The neurological syndrome preceded tumour diagnosis in all but one case. In most cases, immunotherapy had only moderate or no effect. The association of ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj with manifestations other than ACA is corroborated by the case of a 48-year-old woman with high-titre ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj antibodies and rapid cognitive decline, affecting memory, attention and executive function, and psychotic manifestations, including hallucinations, investigated here in detail. FDG-PET revealed right-temporal glucose hypermetabolism compatible with limbic encephalitis. Interestingly, ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj mainly belonged to the IgG2 subclass in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in this and further patients, while it was predominantly IgG1 in other patients, including those with more severe outcome, and remained detectable over the entire course of disease. Immunotherapy with intravenous methylprednisolone, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulins, was repeatedly followed by partial or complete recovery. Long-term treatment with cyclophosphamide was paralleled by relative stabilization, although the patient noted clinical worsening at the end of each treatment cycle.

Conclusions

The spectrum of neurological manifestations associated with ITPR1 autoimmunity is broader than initially thought. Immunotherapy may be effective in some cases. Studies evaluating the frequency of ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj in patients with cognitive decline and/or psychosis of unknown aetiology are warranted. Tumour screening is essential in patients presenting with ITPR1-IgG/anti-Sj.
Toward an intravaginal device to detect risk of preterm labor: a user-centered design approach in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Smith Emma , Milford Cecilia , Ngure Kenneth , Newmann Sara , Thuo Nicholas B. , Berrios Susana , Beksinska Mags E. , Mugo Nelly , Rand Larry
Published: July 2022

Background

Prematurity and its complications are the leading cause of death and disability in children under five in Africa and North America, affecting as many as one in ten pregnancies. Screening tests to predict preterm birth (PTB) are insensitive, costly, and often unavailable in low resource settings. In parallel with early-stage U.S.-based testing of a novel self-placed intravaginal device to predict PTB risk, we elicited key stakeholder input from two sub-Saharan African countries to ensure local contextual factors inform future development of the device and its acceptability.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted in Kiambu County, Kenya and KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. We conducted 26 focus group discussions with pregnant women (n = 132) and males from the community (n = 54); in-depth interviews with women who had a history of PTB (n = 10), healthcare providers (n = 16), and health system experts (n = 10). Interviews were transcribed and thematic analysis was performed using an iterative coding technique. In addition, we facilitated user-centered design sessions to generate prototype preferences.

Results

Women with a personal history of PTB were almost unanimous in support of the proposed device, whereas those with no experience of PTB expressed the greatest degree of reservation. Healthcare providers anticipated that women with a history of PTB would accept the device. However, various potential challenges were identified, including potential discomfort with device insertion, hygiene, and sexual activity, as well as need for provider training, and attention to country-specific regulatory processes. Both community participants and providers expressed a preference for a provider inserted device. Design recommendations included preference for a small, soft, pliable device, with a shape that could facilitate easy removal.

Conclusions

Use of an intravaginal device to detect risk of PTB was generally acceptable, however stakeholders expressed a notable preference for insertion by providers. This reflects the significance of end-user consultation in device design and use. Recommended device modifications as well as educational messaging and provider technical assistance may facilitate utilization.
Reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification assay for H5 subtype avian influenza virus
Authors: Wang Suchun , Li Yang , Zhang Fuyou , Jiang Nan , Zhuang Qingye , Hou Guangyu , Jiang Lijian , Yu Jianmin , Yu Xiaohui , Liu Hualei , Zhao Chenglong , Yuan Liping , Huang Baoxu , Wang Kaicheng
Published: July 2022

Background

The H5 subtype avian influenza virus (AIV) has caused huge economic losses to the poultry industry and is a threat to human health. A rapid and simple test is needed to confirm infection in suspected cases during disease outbreaks.

Methods

In this study, we developed a reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification (RT-RAA) assay for the detection of H5 subtype AIV. Assays were performed at a single temperature (39 °C), and the results were obtained within 20 min.

Results

The assay showed no cross-detection with Newcastle disease virus or infectious bronchitis virus. The analytical sensitivity was 103 RNA copies/μL at a 95% confidence interval according to probit regression analysis, with 100% specificity. Compared with published reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays, the κ value of the RT-RAA assay in 420 avian clinical samples was 0.983 (p < 0.001). The sensitivity for avian clinical sample detection was 97.26% (95% CI, 89.56–99.52%), and the specificity was 100% (95% CI, 98.64–100%).

Conclusions

These results indicated that our RT-RAA assay may be a valuable tool for detecting H5 subtype AIV.
Strategies to improve homology-based repair outcomes following CRISPR-based gene editing in mosquitoes: lessons in how to keep any repair disruptions local
Authors: Finney Micaela , Romanowski Joseph , Adelman Zach N.
Published: July 2022

Programmable gene editing systems such as CRISPR-Cas have made mosquito genome engineering more practical and accessible, catalyzing the development of cutting-edge genetic methods of disease vector control. This progress, however, has been limited by the low efficiency of homology-directed repair (HDR)-based sequence integration at DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and a lack of understanding about DSB repair in mosquitoes. Innovative efforts to optimize HDR sequence integration by inhibiting non-homologous end joining or promoting HDR have been performed in mammalian systems, however many of these approaches have not been applied to mosquitoes. Here, we review some of the most relevant steps of DNA DSB repair choice and highlight promising approaches that influence this choice to enhance HDR in the context of mosquito gene editing.
The role of diet and nutrition related indicators in biliary diseases: an umbrella review of systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yaoqun , Lu Jiong , Wen Ningyuan , Nie Guilin , Peng Dingzhong , Xiong Xianze , Cheng Nansheng , Li Bei
Published: July 2022

Background

Diet and nutrition, as a modifiable risk factor, have been demonstrated to play a significant role in the etiology of biliary diseases, whereas few comprehensive studies have been able to evaluate the strength and quality of these evidence. This umbrella review aims to evaluate the evidence pertaining risk factors for biliary diseases in terms of diet and nutrition-related indicators.

Methods

An umbrella review method was adopted: evidence from observational studies up to 22 November 2021 were identified using PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane database, as well as manual screening. Eligible systematic reviews and meta-analyses were screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria were: (1) meta analysis or systematic review; (2) The theme of the study is the relationship between diet or nutrition and biliary tract diseases; (3) Summarized and reported OR, RR or HR values and corresponding 95% CI; (4) No restrictions on the use of participants and languages; (5) Only extract the data of biliary tract diseases from multiple health outcomes; (6) Only the most recent studies on the same subject were included. This study had been registered at PROSPERO (CRD42021293908). For each eligible systematic review and meta-analysis, we extracted the data of general characteristics and the main findings. The methodological quality of the meta-analyses included in our study were assessed by AMSTAR2 and the quality of evidence was evaluated by the GRADE.

Results

A total of 323 articles were searched, among which 24 articles with 83 unique outcomes were identified as eligible. 35 of these outcomes were downgraded in GRADE evaluation as they reported heterogeneity. In short, among 83 unique outcomes, 5 were rated as moderate, 16 as low, and the rest as very low. For the prevention of biliary tract diseases, emphasis should be placed on appropriately increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, coffee and tea, and reducing the intake of alcohol, raw fish and foods with high nitrate. Meanwhile, weight, blood sugar and lipid levels should be controlled, and diabetes should be actively prevented and treated. Drinking is not recommended to prevent gallstones, although studies have shown that it may reduce the risk of cholecystolithiasis.

Conclusions

Our study summarizes the current multifaceted evidence on the relationship between dietary and nutritional indicators and biliary diseases, but the quality of all evidence was not high. Evidence from additional high-quality prospective studies are needed in the future.
The potential mechanisms of lactate in mediating exercise-enhanced cognitive function: a dual role as an energy supply substrate and a signaling molecule
Authors: Xue Xiangli , Liu Beibei , Hu Jingyun , Bian Xuepeng , Lou Shujie
Published: July 2022

Lactate has previously been considered a metabolic waste and is mainly involved in exercise-induced fatigue. However, recent studies have found that lactate may be a mediator of the beneficial effects of exercise on brain health. Lactate plays a dual role as an energy supply substrate and a signaling molecule in this process. On the one hand, astrocytes can uptake circulating glucose or degrade glycogen for glycolysis to produce lactate, which is released into the extracellular space. Neurons can uptake extracellular lactate as an important supplement to their energy metabolism substrates, to meet the demand for large amounts of energy when synaptic activity is enhanced. Thus, synaptic activity and energy transfer show tight metabolic coupling. On the other hand, lactate acts as a signaling molecule to activate downstream signaling transduction pathways by specific receptors, inducing the expression of immediate early genes and cerebral angiogenesis. Moderate to high-intensity exercise not only increases lactate production and accumulation in muscle and blood but also promotes the uptake of skeletal muscle-derived lactate by the brain and enhances aerobic glycolysis to increase brain-derived lactate production. Furthermore, exercise regulates the expression or activity of transporters and enzymes involved in the astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle to maintain the efficiency of this process; exercise also activates lactate receptor HCAR1, thus affecting brain plasticity. Rethinking the role of lactate in cognitive function and the regulatory effect of exercise is the main focus and highlights of the review. This may enrich the theoretical basis of lactate-related to promote brain health during exercise, and provide new perspectives for promoting a healthy aging strategy.
Traditional knowledge of medicinal mushrooms and lichens of Yuman peoples in Northern Mexico
Authors: Bautista-González Joshua Anthuan , Montoya Adriana , Bye Robert , Esqueda Martín , Herrera-Campos María de los Angeles
Published: July 2022

Background

Mushrooms and lichens are natural therapeutic resources whose millenary importance persists in indigenous and mestizo communities of Mexico. However, in this regard, in the northern part of the country there are few ethnobiological explorations. This study investigates the local knowledge of medicinal mushrooms and lichens used by Yuman peoples, whose native speakers are in imminent danger of extinction along with their biocultural heritage due to changes in their traditional primary activities and the usurpation of their ancestral lands.

Methods

Ethnographic techniques in the field and standard lichenological and mycological methods in the laboratory were used.

Results

Information was obtained on the medicinal use of 20 species, of which six are lichens of the genusXanthoparmeliaand 14 are non-lichenized fungi, mainly gasteroids. The latter are primarily used to treat skin lesions, while lichens are used in heart, urinary, and gastrointestinal diseases. The transmission of this local knowledge to future generations is discussed, as well as the intercultural cognitive convergence about the uses of medicinal mushrooms and lichens.

Conclusions

The Yuman peoples preserve knowledge, practices and beliefs around mushrooms and lichens. Although increasingly less used, they still form part of their culinary and traditional medicine; even some are also used as ludic and ornamental purposes, and as trail markers. Beyond the pragmatic importance of these organisms, traditional knowledge about them is an essential part of the cultural identity that the Yuman peoples strive to preserve.
Comparison of two coracoid process transfer techniques on stress shielding using three-dimensional finite-element model
Authors: Unsal Seyyid Serif , Yildirim Tugrul , Kayalar Murat
Published: July 2022

Background

We created patient-based 3D finite-element (FE) models that simulate the congruent-arc Latarjet (CAL) and traditional Latarjet (TL) procedures and then compared their stress distribution patterns with different arm positions and glenoid defects.

Methods

The computed tomography data of 10 adult patients (9 men and 1 woman, ages: 18–50 years) were used to develop the 3D FE glenohumeral joint models. Twenty-five and 35% bony defects were created on the anterior glenoid rim, and the coracoid process was transferred flush with the glenoid by the traditional and congruent-arc techniques using two half-threaded screws. A load was applied to the greater tuberosity toward the center of the glenoid, and a tensile force (20 N) was applied to the coracoid tip along the direction of the conjoint tendon. The distribution patterns of the von Mises stress in the traditional and congruent-arc Latarjet techniques were compared.

Results

The mean von Mises on the graft was significantly greater for the TL technique than for the CAL. While the von Mises stress was greater in the distal medial part of the graft in the TL models, a higher stress concentration was observed in the distal lateral edge of the coracoid graft in the CAL models. The proximal medial part of the graft exhibited significantly lower von Mises stress than the distal medial part when compared according to technique, defect size, and arm position. Increasing the glenoid defect from 25 to 35% resulted in a significant increase in stress on the lateral side of the graft in both models.

Conclusion

The stress distribution patterns and stress magnitude of the coracoid grafts differed according to the procedure. Due to placing less stress on the proximal–medial part of the graft, the CAL technique may lead to insufficient stimulation for bone formation at the graft–glenoid interface, resulting in a higher incidence of graft osteolysis.

Clinical relevance The CAL technique may lead to a higher incidence of graft osteolysis.

Level of evidence

Basic Science Study; Computer Modeling.
Natural history of Myhre syndrome
Authors: Yang David Dawei , Rio Marlene , Michot Caroline , Boddaert Nathalie , Yacoub Wael , Garcelon Nicolas , Thierry Briac , Bonnet Damien , Rondeau Sophie , Herve Dominique , Guey Stephanie , Angoulvant Francois , Cormier-Daire Valerie
Published: July 2022

Background

Myhre syndrome (MS) is a rare genetic disease characterized by skeletal disorders, facial features and joint limitation, caused by a gain of function mutation in SMAD4 gene. The natural history of MS remains incompletely understood.

Methods

We recruited in a longitudinal retrospective study patients with molecular confirmed MS from the French reference center for rare skeletal dysplasia. We described natural history by chaining data from medical reports, clinical data warehouse, medical imaging and photographies.

Results

We included 12 patients. The median age was 22 years old (y/o). Intrauterine and postnatal growth retardation were consistently reported. In preschool age, neurodevelopment disorders were reported in 80% of children. Specifics facial and skeletal features, thickened skin and joint limitation occured mainly in school age children. The adolescence was marked by the occurrence of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and vascular stenosis. We reported for the first time recurrent strokes from the age of 26 y/o, caused by a moyamoya syndrome in one patient. Two patients died at late adolescence and in their 20 s respectively from PAH crises and mesenteric ischemia.

Conclusion

Myhre syndrome is a progressive disease with severe multisystemic impairement and life-threathning complication requiring multidisciplinary monitoring.
Dermatologic manifestations in patients with the Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome types 1 and 3
Authors: Santos Malave Gabriel , Izquierdo Natalio J. , Sanchez Nestor P.
Published: July 2022

Background

The Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome (HPS) is a genetically heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by oculocutaneous albinism, bleeding diathesis, and systemic complications. It is the most common genetic disorder in Puerto Rico. These patients are at a significant risk of developing a variety of skin complications and little is known about the prevalence of dermatologic diagnoses in this population.

Objectives

To report dermatologic manifestations in patients with Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome (HPS). Secondary aims include skin concerns, sun protection habits, barriers to dermatologic care, and skin cancer knowledge.

Methods

Cross-sectional study with twenty-nine Puerto Rican patients who carried a clinical diagnosis of HPS type 1 or type 3 through a telephonic questionnaire.

Results

Twenty-nine patients participated with a mean (SD) age of 37.3 (16.8) years and the majority were female (69%). The most common diagnoses were skin cancer (34.5%), acne (34.5%), bacterial skin infections (34.5%), warts (24%), urticaria (17.2%), and psoriasis (17.2%). The most common skin concerns were dry skin (62.1%), hair loss (58.9%), redness (34.5%), moles (31%), and rash (31%). The most common sun protection behavior was wearing a shirt that covers the shoulders (93.1%, often or always) and the least common was wearing a hat (24.1%, often or always). Higher income was significantly associated with being more likely to use sunscreen often or always (OR = 3.38, 95% CI 1.02–11.18, p = 0.04). Those in northern urban areas were significantly less likely to report barriers to dermatologic care (OR = 0.13, 95% CI 0.02–0.76, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

This study provides an important overview of the most common self-reported skin manifestations in patients with HPS. Unfortunately, a high prevalence of cutaneous malignancy was reported. The results stress the need for adequate care and potential interventions to promote sun protection behaviors and skin cancer prevention.
The presence of living endometrial cells in ovarian endometriotic cyst fluid may contribute to the recurrence of endometriosis after surgical excision of endometriomas
Authors: Xu Xinxin , Chen Yichen , Yu Qin , Wang Jianzhang , Xu Ping , Zhu Libo , Xu Qiong , Zhang Jing , Cui Shuling , Yu Kewen , Li Tiantian , Guo Xinyue , Zhang Xinmei
Published: July 2022

Background

Many factors can affect the recurrence of endometriosis after surgery, however, whether endometriotic cyst fluid contributes to endometriosis recurrence after surgical excision of ovarian endometriomas remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine the presence of endometrial cells in ovarian endometriosis cyst fluid and the potential differences between these cells and those in the cyst wall.

Methods

Samples of cyst fluid (n = 39) and drainage fluid (n = 14) were collected from patients with ovarian endometriomas undergoing laparoscopic surgery. Drainage fluid from 14 patients without endometriosis was used as a control. The presence of endometrial cells in cyst fluid and drainage fluid was determined by cell culture in vitro and immunostaining. In addition, cyst fluid endometrial fragments and viscosity were analysed by transcriptome sequencing analysis and apparent diffusion coefficients, respectively. An animal model was used to confirm the ability of endometrial cells in cyst fluid to form new lesions.

Results

We found endometrium-like tissues in 71.8% (28/39) of cyst fluid and 71.4% (10/14) of drainage fluid samples by histopathological examination, and the presence of endometrioid tissue in cyst fluid was related to the viscosity of the cyst fluid. The living endometrial cells in cyst fluid and drainage fluid were confirmed by cell culture in vitro and immunostaining. Moreover, the adhesion ability of endometrial fragments in cyst fluid was significantly higher than that of ectopic tissues in the cyst wall (P < 0.05). In addition, living endometrial cells in the cyst fluid were able to adhere and alive in the animal model.

Conclusions

The existence of living endometrial cells with high adhesion ability in ovarian endometriotic cyst fluid may contribute to the recurrence of endometriosis after surgical excision of endometriomas due to cyst fluid outflow during the surgical procedure.
The association between weight loss and long term development in quality-of-life among children living with obesity: a pragmatic descriptive intervention study
Authors: Jørgensen Rasmus Møller , Vestergaard Esben Thyssen , Kremke Britta , Bahnsen Rikke Frederiksen , Nielsen Bent Windelborg , Bruun Jens Meldgaard
Published: July 2022

Background

Childhood obesity is associated with impaired Quality-of-Life (QoL), increased stigmatization and higher risk of development of depression compared to their peers. This report describes the long-term development in QoL for cohort of children with obesity after a sustainable weight reduction.

Methods

This pragmatic descriptive intervention study enrolled 120 children with obesity, age 5–17 years, in a multifactorial lifestyle intervention. The intervention was an across sectors collaboration between a department of pediatrics and community health care workers. QoL was assessed yearly throughout the intervention and evaluated by a 6-item Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). For analyzing changes in VAS, as function BMI-SDS, regression models were used, while ANOVA and Wilcoxon test were applied for normal and not-normal distributed data. 95% confidence interval not containing 0 and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

After 26.4 months (13.9 SD) an overall decrease in bullying (0.6 vs. 0.0 median) and motivation (10.0 vs. 9.6) was observed. QoL increased in children with a BMI-SDS reduction (0.65 (2.49 SD)) opposite children with no-change or increasing BMI-SDS who reported reduced QoL (-0.36 (1.55 SD) and -0.96 (2.27 SD)). A significant inverse relationship was observed for Joy of Life, QoL and body perception as a function of BMI-SDS per year.

Conclusion

Weight reduction causes improvement in QoL for children with obesity and an inverse relationship for QoL and changing BMI-SDS / year was establish.
Evaluation of anthropometric indices and their relationship with maternal nutritional literacy and selected socio-economic and demographic variables among children under 5 years old
Authors: Maheri Mina , Bidar Maryam , Farrokh-Eslamlou Hamidreza , Sadaghianifar Ali
Published: July 2022

Background

Considering the destructive effects of malnutrition on the growth, development, and health of children and the importance of identifying the factors affecting it, the present study aimed to investigate the status of anthropometric indices and their relationship with maternal nutritional literacy and selected socio-economic and demographic variables among children under 5 years old.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 405 mothers with children under 5 years old in Urmia, Iran. The data collection tool consisted of two parts. The first part was the demographic and socio-economic information of mother and child and the second part was the Evaluation Instrument of Nutrition Literacy on Adults; EINLA.

Results

There was statistically significant relationship between maternal nutritional literacy with weight-for-age, height-for-age, and weight-for-height indices; between weight-for-age index with maternal education, gestational weight gain, and mean weight, as well as mean height of the mother; between weight-for-age and weight-for-height indices with child gender, type of milk consumed, status of starting complementary foods, and history of acute respiratory infection, as well as diarrhea; and finally between height-for-age with family income status.

Conclusions

It is suggested that mothers with low nutritional literacy, mothers whose gestational weight gain was not normal, children whose family income is low, boy child, children with a history of disease, children who consume powdered milk and children who have not started complementary foods at the right time be given priority when designing and implementing educational interventions to enhance nutritional status and anthropometric indices of children.
Activity tracker-based intervention to increase physical activity in patients with type 2 diabetes and healthy individuals: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mähs M. , Pithan J. S. , Bergmann I. , Gabrys L. , Graf J. , Hölzemann A. , Van Laerhoven K. , Otto-Hagemann S. , Popescu M. L. , Schwermann L. , Wenz B. , Pahmeier I. , Teti A.
Published: July 2022

Background

One relevant strategy to prevent the onset and progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) focuses on increasing physical activity. The use of activity trackers by patients could enable objective measurement of their regular physical activity in daily life and promote physical activity through the use of a tracker-based intervention. This trial aims to answer three research questions: (1) Is the use of activity trackers suitable for longitudinal assessment of physical activity in everyday life? (2) Does the use of a tracker-based intervention lead to sustainable improvements in the physical activity of healthy individuals and in people with T2DM? (3) Does the accompanying digital motivational intervention lead to sustainable improvements in physical activity for participants using the tracker-based device?

Methods

The planned study is a randomized controlled trial focused on 1642 participants with and without T2DM for 9 months with regard to their physical activity behavior. Subjects allocated to an intervention group will wear an activity tracker. Half of the subjects in the intervention group will also receive an additional digital motivational intervention. Subjects allocated to the control group will not receive any intervention. The primary outcome is the amount of moderate and vigorous physical activity in minutes and the number of steps per week measured continuously with the activity tracker and assessed by questionnaires at four time points. Secondary endpoints are medical parameters measured at the same four time points. The collected data will be analyzed using inferential statistics and explorative data-mining techniques.

Discussion

The trial uses an interdisciplinary approach with a team including sports psychologists, sports scientists, health scientists, health care professionals, physicians, and computer scientists. It also involves the processing and analysis of large amounts of data collected with activity trackers. These factors represent particular strengths as well as challenges in the study.

Trial Registration

The trial is registered at the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform via the German Clinical Studies Trial Register (DRKS), DRKS00027064. Registered on 11 November 2021.
Bioinformatics analysis and experimental verification of Notch signalling pathway-related miRNA–mRNA subnetwork in extracellular vesicles during Echinococcus granulosus encystation
Authors: Gao Jian , Zhou Xuan , Liu Ling , Lv Guodong , Hou Qiulian , Zhang Xiaofan , Shen Yujuan
Published: July 2022

Background

Encystation of the protoscoleces (PSCs) of Echinococcus granulosus is the main cause of secondary hydatid dissemination in the intermediate host. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can transfer miRNAs into parasite cells to regulate mRNA expression. However, loading of developmental pathway-related miRNAs, such as those related to the Notch signalling pathway in EVs is unclear. Thus, we screened the miRNA-mRNA subnetwork involved in the Notch pathway during E. granulosus encystation in vitro and assessed changes in expression in the parasite and EVs.

Methods

mRNAs and miRNAs differentially expressed (DE) between PSCs and microcysts (MCs) were screened using high-throughput sequencing. DE mRNAs obtained from transcriptome analysis were intersected with mRNAs predicted to be targets of the conserved DE miRNAs of a small RNA library. DE miRNA functions were analysed using public databases, and a miRNA–mRNA subnetwork related to the Notch pathway was established. Notch pathway-related mRNA and miRNA expression of worms and EVs at different times was verified.

Results

In total, 1445 DE mRNAs between MCs and PSCs were screened after the intersection between 1586 DE mRNAs from the transcriptome and 9439 target mRNAs predicted using 39 DE miRNAs from the small RNA library. The DE mRNAs were clustered into 94 metabolic pathways, including the Notch pathway. Five DE miRNAs, including the most significantly expressed new DE miRNA, egr-new-mir0694-3p, corresponding to four target mRNAs (EgrG_000892700, EgrG_001029400, EgrG_001081400 and EgrG_000465800) were all enriched in the Notch pathway. The expression of the above mRNAs and miRNAs was consistent with the results of high-throughput sequencing, and the expression of each miRNA in EVs was verified. Annotated as ADAM17/TACE in the Notch pathway, EgrG_000892700 was down-regulated during PSC encystation. egr-miR-4989-3p and egr-miR-277a-3p expression in EVs after encystation was nearly five times that in EVs before encystation, which might regulate the expression of EgrG_000892700.

Conclusions

Five miRNAs corresponding to four target mRNAs may be involved in regulating the Notch pathway during the PSC encystation. EVs may regulate the expression of EgrG_000892700 in PSCs because of continuous targeting of egr-miR-4989-3p and egr-miR-277a-3p and participate in the regulation the Notch pathway. The study might expand new ideas for blocking the secondary infection of E. granulosus PSCs via EVs miRNAs.

Graphical Abstract
Classified metabolic power-based measures in professional football players: comparison between playing positions and match period
Authors: Akyildiz Zeki , Çene Erhan , Parim Coşkun , Çetin Onat , Turan Çağatay , Yüksel Yılmaz , Silva Rui , Silva Ana Filipa , Nobari Hadi
Published: July 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was (i) provide reference data of metabolic power-based measures during professional football matches; and to (ii) analyze the between-position and between-halves differences of power-based measures during professional football matches.

Methods

Forty-six professional male players from two Turkish Super League teams were observed during two seasons, and 58 matches were analyzed. Total distance, equivalent distance, Low Power (LP), Intermediate Power (IP), High Power (HP), Elevated Power (EP), Max Power (MP) and power metabolic measures Pmet at different match moments were considered.

Results

Significant between-position differences were observed for IP (p: 0.000; d: 0.284), HP (p ≤ 0.001; d = 0.45), EP (p ≤ 0.001; d = 0.44), and for MP (p ≤ 0.001; d = 0.56), with the central defenders (CD) showing the lower values, and the central midfielders (CM) showing the higher values for the overall measures.

Conclusion

Power-based measures are dependent on playing positions. While the CD have lower Pmet values when compared to all positions, the CM have the greatest values. Training and recovery strategies must be ensured for CM players, especially those who have greater match participation.
Acute hepatitis-like presentation with cholestasis of CBFB–MYH11-positive acute myeloid leukemia in an adult male: a case report
Authors: Spinelli Irene , De Santis Adriano , Cesini Laura , Riminucci Mara , Corsi Alessandro , Forlino Mariana , Perrone Elio Pietro , Minotti Clara , Cartoni Claudio
Published: July 2022

Background

Liver involvement in adults with acute myeloid leukemia is uncommon. Most of the case reports describe acute liver failure or obstructive jaundice, while acute hepatitis is rarely mentioned. We report a patient with acute myeloid leukemia who presented with clinical, biochemical, and radiological signs of acute hepatitis that totally regressed after chemotherapy.

Case presentation

A 38-year-old Caucasian man presented with fever, cough, and mild fatigue. Laboratory workup showed anemia, thrombocytopenia, severe leukocytosis, transaminitis, and hyperbilirubinemia. Imaging of the abdomen (ultrasound and magnetic resonance) showed hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, upper limits portal veins diameters, increased thickness of the gallbladder wall, and significant abdominal lymph nodes. Peripheral blood smear and bone marrow evaluation were consistent with acute myeloid leukemia, and liver biopsy showed massive sinusoidal and portal infiltration by leukemic cells. After remission-inducing chemotherapy, there was complete normalization of liver function tests, and liver, spleen, and portal vein size.

Conclusions

This case highlights the importance of taking acute myeloid leukemia into account as a possible cause of liver damage to make a rapid diagnosis and start appropriate treatment that may lead to hematological remission and hepatic dysfunction resolution.
The roles of long noncoding RNAs in the regulation of OCT4 expression
Authors: Zhou Rui-Ting , Ni Yi-Ran , Zeng Fan-Jun
Published: July 2022

OCT4 is a major transcription factor that maintains the pluripotency of stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells and cancer stem cells. An increasing number of long noncoding RNAs have been reported to participate in the regulation of OCT4 expression through various mechanisms, including binding with the OCT4 gene promoter to regulate local methylation; promoting chromosomal spatial folding to form an inner ring, thereby aggregating OCT4 cis-acting elements scattered in discontinuous sites of the chromosome; competitively binding microRNAs with OCT4 to upregulate OCT4 expression at the posttranscriptional level; and sharing a promoter with OCT4. Moreover, the transcription of some long noncoding RNAs is regulated by OCT4, and certain long noncoding RNAs form feedback regulatory loops with OCT4. In this review, we summarized the research progress of the long noncoding RNAs involved in the regulation of OCT4 expression.
Advances in cell therapies using stem cells/progenitors as a novel approach for neurovascular repair of the diabetic retina
Authors: Lechner Judith , Medina Reinhold J. , Lois Noemi , Stitt Alan W.
Published: July 2022

Background

Diabetic retinopathy, a major complication of diabetes mellitus, is a leading cause of sigh-loss in working age adults. Progressive loss of integrity of the retinal neurovascular unit is a central element in the disease pathogenesis. Retinal ischemia and inflammatory processes drive interrelated pathologies such as blood retinal barrier disruption, fluid accumulation, gliosis, neuronal loss and/or aberrant neovascularisation. Current treatment options are somewhat limited to late-stages of the disease where there is already significant damage to the retinal architecture arising from degenerative, edematous and proliferative pathology. New preventive and interventional treatments to target early vasodegenerative and neurodegenerative stages of the disease are needed to ensure avoidance of sight-loss.

Main body

Historically, diabetic retinopathy has been considered a primarily microvascular disease of the retina and clinically it is classified based on the presence and severity of vascular lesions. It is now known that neurodegeneration plays a significant role during the pathogenesis. Loss of neurons has been documented at early stages in pre-clinical models as well as in individuals with diabetes and, in some, even prior to the onset of clinically overt diabetic retinopathy. Recent studies suggest that some patients have a primarily neurodegenerative phenotype. Retinal pigment epithelial cells and the choroid are also affected during the disease pathogenesis and these tissues may also need to be addressed by new regenerative treatments.

Most stem cell research for diabetic retinopathy to date has focused on addressing vasculopathy. Pre-clinical and clinical studies aiming to restore damaged vasculature using vasoactive progenitors including mesenchymal stromal/stem cells, adipose stem cells, CD34+ cells, endothelial colony forming cells and induced pluripotent stem cell derived endothelial cells are discussed in this review. Stem cells that could replace dying neurons such as retinal progenitor cells, pluripotent stem cell derived photoreceptors and ganglion cells as well as Müller stem cells are also discussed. Finally, challenges of stem cell therapies relevant to diabetic retinopathy are considered.

Conclusion

Stem cell therapies hold great potential to replace dying cells during early and even late stages of diabetic retinopathy. However, due to the presence of different phenotypes, selecting the most suitable stem cell product for individual patients will be crucial for successful treatment.