bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aberrantly Expressed Galectin-9 is Involved in the Immunopathogenesis of anti-MDA5-Positive Dermatomyositis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Liang Lin , Zhang Ya-Mei , Shen Ya-Wen , Song Ai-Ping , Li Wen-Li , Ye Li-Fang , Lu Xin , Wang Guo-Chun , Peng Qing-Lin
Published: November 2020

Background: Rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD) has high mortality rate and poor prognosis. Galectin-9 (Gal-9) plays multiple functions in immune regulation. We investigated Gal-9 expression in patients with dermatomyositis (DM) and the impact of Gal-9 on the development of DM-ILD. Methods: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and qRT-PCR were used to examine Gal-9 expression in the sera and isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with DM. Immunohistochemistry was performed to analyze the expression of Gal-9 and its ligand (T-cell immunoglobulin mucin (Tim)-3 and CD44) in lung tissues from patients who were positive for anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5). The effect of Gal-9 on human lung fibroblasts (MRC-5) was also investigated in vitro. Results: Serum Gal-9 levels were significantly higher in patients with DM than in those with immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy and healthy controls (p < 0.001). Higher levels of serum Gal-9 were observed in anti-MDA5-positive patients with DM than in anti-MDA5-negative patients with DM (33.8 (21.9–44.7) vs 16.2 (10.0–26.9) ng/mL, p < 0.001). Among the anti-MDA5-positive patients with DM, serum Gal-9 levels were associated with ILD severity. Serum Gal-9 levels were significantly correlated with disease activity in anti-MDA5-positive patients with DM in both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. PBMCs isolated from anti-MDA5-positive patients with DM (3.7 ± 2.3 ng/mL) produced higher levels of Gal-9 than those from patients with immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (1.1 ± 0.3 ng/mL, p = 0.022) and healthy controls (1.4 ± 1.2 ng/mL, p = 0.045). The mRNA levels of Gal-9 were positively correlated with levels of type-I interferon-inducible genes MX1 (r = 0.659, p = 0.020) and IFIH1 (r = 0.787, p = 0.002) in PBMCs from anti-MDA5-positive patients with DM. Immunohistochemistry revealed increased Gal-9 and Tim-3 expression in the lung tissues of patients with DM and RP-ILD. In vitro stimulation with Gal-9 protein increased CCL2 mRNA expression in MRC-5 fibroblasts.Conclusions: Among anti-MDA5-positive patients with DM, Gal-9 could be a promising biomarker for monitoring disease activity, particularly for RP-ILD severity. Aberrant expression of the Gal-9/Tim-3 axis may be involved in the immunopathogenesis of DM-ILD.
Somatic Mutations in BRCA2 BRC Repeat Associated with Outcome in Patients with High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zhang Guonan , Zhang Jie , Zhu Yi , Liu Hong , Shi Yu , Mi Kun , Li Meiying , Zhao Qi , Huang Ziyi , Huang Jianming
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe interaction between BRCA2 BRC repeats and RAD51 is one of the great important factors affecting the homologous recombination in DNA damage repair of tumor cells. We investigated the effect of BRCA2 BRC repeat mutations on outcome in patients with high grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) who received platinum-based chemotherapy.MethodsWe identified the type and location of BRCA2 BRC repeat mutations by PCR and DNA sequencing in tumor and peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) samples of 113 patients with stage IIIC/IV high grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), and assessed chemotherapy-free interval (CFI), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).Results24 (21.23%) cases with somatic mutation were identified in 113 HGSOC patients. Among them, 8 (7.1%) cases with nonsense mutation resulting in BRCA2 truncation significantly prolonged median CFI (37 vs 8 months,P=0.000), PFS (43 vs 14 months, p=0.000) and OS (56 vs 31 months, P=0.002); Interestingly, 16 (14.13%) cases with missense mutation also prolonged median CFI (15 vs 8 months, P=0.044), PFS (21 vs 14 months, P=0.049) and OS ( 38 vs 31 months, P=0.037). ConclusionsSomatic mutations in BRCA2 BRC5-8 repeat motifs are associated with platinum-based chemotherapy sensitivity and a better outcome in patients with HGSOC.
Tris DBA Abrogates Tumor Progression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Multiple Myeloma Preclinical Models by Affecting Multiple Oncogenic Proteins
Authors: Arora Loukik , Mohan Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya , Kim Chulwon , Rangappa Shobith , Deivasigamani Amudha , Kumar Alan Prem , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B , Garg Manoj , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S. , Hui Kam Man , Sethi Gautam , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: November 2020

Background: STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that controls the expression of genes associated with proliferation, apoptotic resistance, malignant transformation, and metastasis. Persistent activation of STAT3 is observed in many types of human malignancies including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and multiple myeloma (MM). Methods: Here, we have investigated the action of Tris(dibenzylideneacetone) dipalladium 0 (Tris DBA), a palladium complex on STAT3 signaling cascade in HCC and MM. The cytotoxic and proapoptotic activity of Tris DBA was evaluated by various biochemical assays. The action of Tris DBA on cytokine-induced/constitutive activation of STAT3, non-receptor tyrosine kinases (NRTKs), and expression of STAT3 driven genes was evaluated. Nuclear translocation of STAT3 and its DNA interaction was also studied. The antitumor activity of Tris DBA was investigated in two different preclinical studies namely, xenograft MM and orthotopic HCC mice models.Results: Tris DBA decreased cell viability, increased the apoptosis, and inhibited the activation of STAT3 and NRTKs. Tris DBA downmodulated the nuclear translocation of STAT3 and reduced its DNA binding ability. It upregulated expression of SHP2 (protein and mRNA) to induce STAT3 dephosphorylation and inhibition of SHP2 reversed this effect. It downregulated the expression of STAT3-driven genes and suppressed cell motility. Tris DBA significantly inhibited tumor growth in xenograft MM and orthotopic HCC mice models with reduction in the expression of various prosurvival biomarkers in MM tumor tissues without displaying any significant toxicity. Conclusions: Tris DBA functions as a good inhibitor of STAT3 signaling in preclinical HCC and MM models.
Willingness to Pay Tuition and Risk-Taking Proclivities Among Students During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Fundamental Conundrum for Universities
Authors: Zafari Zafar , Goldman Lee , Kovrizhkin Katia , Muennig Peter
Published: November 2020

Background. As universities around the world decide whether to remain open or to close their campuses because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they often are doing so without objective information on the preferences and risk tolerance of their students. In this study, we aim to quantify students’: 1) risk tolerance for in-person instruction; 2) willingness to pay for in-person instruction versus online-only instruction; and 3) risk-tolerance for social activities held off campus.Methods. We developed an automated survey tool that administered a “standard gamble” exercise grounded in game theory to 46 Columbia University public health graduate students who were knowledgeable about COVID-19 and who had experience with both online and offline coursework. Students were asked to trade between the risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 and: 1) attending classes in-person versus online and 2) attending parties in the greater New York City area. We also assessed their willingness to pay for online only tuition and plans to travel off campus.Results. On average, students were willing to accept a 23% (standard error [SE]: 4%) risk of infection on campus over the semester in exchange for the opportunity to attend classes in-person. Students were willing-to-pay only 48% (SE: 3%) of typical in-person tuition were courses held exclusively online, and no students were willing to pay full price for online-only instruction. Students planned to leave campus an average of 3.6 times per week (SE: 0.54), and 15% of the students would be willing to attend a party in the community surrounding the university even if the prevalence of circulating COVID-19 were high.Conclusions. Students with a strong knowledge of COVID-19 transmission and risks are an enigma: they are willing to pay only around 50% for online classes but likely to engage in activities that present significant barriers to holding in-person classes. This enigma underscores the conundrum facing universities.Trial registration: NA.
Incidence of Valvular Regurgitation and Leaflet Perforation by Using Automated Titanium Fasteners (CORKNOT®) in Heart Valve Repair or Replacement: Less Usual than Reported
Authors: Sazzad Faizus Sazzad , Xian Ong Zhi , Ler Ashlynn , Guohao Chang , Swee Kang Giap , Kofidis Theo
Published: November 2020

Background: CORKNOT® facilitates a reduction in cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, aortic cross clamp (ACC) time and operative time, but reported to be associated with other complications. We aim to quantify the incidence of valvular complications related to CORKNOT® and determine the feasibility of its use between different valvular surgeries. Methods: Patients who underwent heart valve repair or replacement surgery via the use of automated titanium suture fasteners (CORKNOT®) in a tertiary care hospital were included in the study. This single-centre retrospective study was conducted on 136 patients between January 2016 and June 2018. Results: In our study, the mean operative time was 320.0 ± 97.0 min, mean CPB time was 171.4 ± 76.0 min and the calculated mean ACC time was 105.9 ± 54.0 min. 58 patients (43.9%) underwent minimally invasive valve replacement or repair surgery and 66 patients (50.0%) underwent concomitant procedures. A total of 157 valves were operated on, with 112 (84.8%) single valve surgeries, 15 (11.4%) double valve surgeries and 5 (3.8%) triple valve surgeries. The incidence of moderate and/or severe paravalvular leak (PVL) in immediate post-operative echocardiography was found in 7 (5.3%) patients. There were no reported cases of valvular thrombosis leaflet perforation, device dislodgement or embolization during follow-up echocardiography. Single mitral valve and aortic surgeries had comparable incidences of valvular complications. Conclusion: We conclude the feasibility of CORKNOT® utilisation in mitral and aortic valve surgeries. Additionally, incidence of CORKNOT® related complications in heart valve repair or replacement surgery is less usual in our setting than previously reported. These results motivate the use of CORKNOT® as a valid alternative with complete commitment.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio at Hospital Admission as a Novel Predictor of Early Growth of Intraparenchymal Haemorrhage in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Zhuang Dongzhou , Sheng Jiangtao , Peng Guoyi , Li Tian , Cai Shirong , Ding Faxiu , Li Lianjie , Huang Mindong , Tian Fei , Li Kangsheng , Wang Shousen , chen weiqiang
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThis study aimed to explore the association between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and early growth of traumatic intraparenchymal haemorrhage (tICH) in patients with traumatic brain injury.MethodsA multicentre, observational cohort study was conducted at four hospitals and included patients with cerebral contusion undergoing baseline computed tomography (CT) for haematoma volume analysis within 6 hours after primary injury and who had follow-up visits within 48 hours. Routine blood tests were performed upon admission and analysed with early PIH. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to explore the predictive value of the NLR for haematoma expansion. ResultsThe final analysis included 1003 patients in the retrospective development and validation cohorts. In the retrospective development cohort, the NLR were higher in the PIH group than in the non-PIH group (P<0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a higher NLR was independently associated with PIH (P<0.0001). ROC curve analysis showed that the NLR had a sensitive ability for predicting PIH (AUC, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.88-0.94]). In the validation study, the NLR had a similar ability to predict PIH. Conclusion﻿The NLR can be used to easily assess the growth of tICH and calculated using routine laboratory tests. A high NLR is independently predictive of early growth of tICH and may aid in risk stratification of patients with tICH on admission.
Associations Between The Thyroid Panel and Serum Protein Concentrations Across Pregnancy
Authors: Lisowska-Myjak Barbara , Strawa Agnieszka , Zborowska Hanna , Jakimiuk Artur , Skarżyńska Ewa
Published: November 2020

Background: Establishing any characteristic associations between the serum parameters of thyroid function and serum proteins in pregnancy may aid in elucidating the role of the thyroid gland in the regulation of pregnancy-specific metabolic processes and in selecting candidate biomarkers for use in their clinical assessment.Methods: Concentrations of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free tri-iodothyronine (fT3) and free thyroxine (fT4), six electrophoretically separated protein fractions (albumin, alpha-1-, alpha-2-, beta-1-, beta-2- and gamma-globulins), representative proteins - albumin (ALB), transferrin (TRF), alpha-2-macroglobulin (AMG) and ceruloplasmin (CER) were measured in 136 serum samples from 65 women in their consecutive trimesters of pregnancy.Results: The concentrations of TSH, fT4 and fT3 were significantly correlated (p<0.05) with the concentrations of the albumin, alpha-2- and beta-1 globulin fractions. Significant correlations (p<0.05) which were positive between fT4 and ALB and negative between fT4 and TRF were established throughout pregnancy. Significant negative correlations (p<0.05) were demonstrated for fT3 with alpha-2-globulin, AMG and CER.Conclusions: Changes in the serum concentrations of thyroid hormones seen between the trimesters were found to correlate with the concentrations of high-abundance serum proteins. Opposite directions of correlations between fT4 and ALB and fT4 and TRF observed throughout pregnancy may indicate the shared biological role of these parameters in maintaining maternal homeostasis and they suggest their potential use in the clinic as a simple biomarker panel. A negative correlation of fT3 with CER in the second trimester possibly reflects their involvement in the active regulation of metabolic processes.
Assessment of 12 Quantitative RT-PCR Commercial Kits for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Altamimi Asmaa M. , Obeid Dalia A. , Alaifan Taghreed A. , Taha Moroje T. , Alhothali Marwa A. , Alzahrani Fahad A. , Albarrag Ahmad M.
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) in the final months of 2019 had the health officials declare a public emergency raising a global response. In response to the burden of the current pandemic, strict measurements were globally implemented to stop further transmission of the virus. These Measurements rely on an accurate diagnosis of individuals infected with the virus by using real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). The goal of our study is to relate the fundamental clinical and analytical performance of chosen kits of RT-PCR from distinct manufacturers. Methods A total of 94 nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal clinical samples were selected randomly, these samples were previously confirmed as 64 positives, and 30 negatives for SARS-COV-2. Generally, 400 µl of each respiratory specimen was subjected to extraction using ExiPrep 96 Viral RNA Kit with the ExiPrep 96 Lite Automated NA Purification System. All kits master mix preparation, cycling protocol, and results interpretation were carried out according to the manufactures’ instructions of use and recommendations. Results In our study, we were able to evaluate the performance of 12 commercial kits in detecting SARS-COV-2 using 5 different targets. The performance of the kits was comparable except for LYRA kit as it was less sensitive (F=67, P <0.001). Particularly, the performance of RealStar, BGI, DiaPlexQ, Genesig, LightMix, TaqPath, and RADI kits were the most sensitive. Moreover, the performance of these commercial kits by gene target showed no significant change in Ct values which indicates that kits disparities are mainly linked to the choice of the gene target (F=0.49, P=0.73).ConclusionWe believe that most of the commercially available RT-PCR kits included in this study can be used for routine diagnosis of SARS-COV-2 patients. Moreover, we recommend that regardless of the laboratory choice of diagnostic commercial kit for the clinical detection of COVID-19 patients the need a for good plan for validation and collaboration with exterior laboratories is essential in order to monitor the virus changes overtime, procedures, technicians, and the different kits performances.
From Informed Consent to Adherence: Factors Influencing Involvement in Mass Drug Administration With Ivermectin for Malaria Elimination in The Gambia
Authors: Fehr Alexandra E. , Nieto-Sanchez Claudia , Muela Joan , Jaiteh Fatou , Ceesay Omar , Manneh Ebrima , Baldeh Dullo , Achan Jane , Dabira Edgard , Conteh Bakary , Bunders-Aelen Joske , Smekens Tome , Broekhuizen Henk , D'Alessandro Umberto , Peters-Grietens Koen
Published: November 2020

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends consideration of mass drug administration (MDA) for malaria control in low-endemic settings approaching elimination. However, MDA remains a controversial strategy, as multiple individual, social, and operational factors have shown to affect its acceptability at local levels. This is further complicated by inconsistent definitions of key indicators derived from individual and community involvement — coverage, adherence, and compliance— that cast doubts about the actual and potential epidemiological impact of MDA on disease control. This study aimed to identify limitations and enabling factors impacting involvement at different stages of a large cluster-randomized trial assessing the effect of combining dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) and ivermectin (IVM) in malaria transmission in The Gambia. Methods: This social science study used a mixed-methods approach. Qualitative data were collected in intervention and control villages through ethnographic methods, including in-depth interviews (IDIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), and participant observation conducted with trial participants and decliners, community leaders, and field staff. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the intervention villages after the first year of MDA. Both strands of the study explored malaria knowledge and opinions, social dynamics influencing decision-making, as well as perceived risks, burdens, and benefits associated with this MDA.Results: 157 IDIs and 11 FGDs were conducted, and 864 respondents were included in the survey. Barriers and enabling factors to involvement were differentially influential at the various stages of the MDA. Issues of social influence, concerns regarding secondary effects of the medication, costs associated with malaria, and acceptability of the implementing organization, among other factors, differently affected the decision-making processes throughout the trial. Rather than a linear trajectory, involvement in this MDA trial was subjected to multiple revaluations from enrolment and consent to medicine intake and adherence to treatment. Conclusions: Our study went beyond the individual factors often associated with coverage and adherence, and found that nuanced social dynamics greatly influence the decision-making process at all phases of the trial. These issues need to be consider for MDA implementation strategies and inform discussions about more accurate ways of reporting on critical effectiveness indicators.
Karyo-Morphology and Nucleoli Analysis of Commelina L. (Commelinaceae) from Ethiopia
Authors: Gebretsadkan Samuel Gebrechristos , Kiros Gebrehiwet , Gebreabzgi Bahlibi , Gebremichael Destalem , Mulaw Guesh
Published: November 2020

BackgroundWith about 100 species, Commelina is the largest genus of Commelinaceae in Africa. Although medicinal and economic benefits had been studied extensively, little is known about its cytological analysis. Hence, this study will focus on chromosome and nucleoli analysis of selected species of Commelina L. Somatic chromosomes were prepared from root tips that emerged from the nodes of stem cuttings that were made to stand submerged in water. The roots were pretreated in 8-hydroxyquinelin 3-5 hrs followed by fixation in 3:1 ethanol: acetic acid for 1-24 hrs at 4OC. Air-dry slides were prepared following cellulase and pectinase maceration at 37OC, the preparation was stained in Giemsa stain (PH 6.4), rinsed and mounted. Nucleoli were stained in silver nitrate solution. ResultsChromosome numbers and Karyotype formula of the four species were found as C. africana 2n=2x=30 (12m + 10sm + 8st), C. benghalensis 2n=6x=66 (36m + 24sm + 6st), C. diffusa (Ginchi) 2n=66 (28m +26sm + 12st), C. diffusa (Jimma) 2n=2x=30 (10m + 8sm + 12st) and C. subulata 2n=2x=30 (18m +10sm + 2st). According to Stebbins karyotype asymmetry, the karyotypes of C. africana and C. subulata were 2A type, while that of C. benghalensis and C. diffusa (Ginchi) were 2B type. 3A asymmetry type was obtained for C. diffusa (Jimma). Karotypes of Tradescantia were found to be monomodal for the Commelina species of the studied plant materials. Satellites were observed for species C. africana and C. diffusa with variation in number ranging from 2 to 6. The maximum number of nucleoli observed varies from two to four for Commelina. Conclusions﻿This study reported karyotype and nucleoli of the Ethiopian Commelinaceae for the first time. The current investigation can be considered as an additional karyotype data to the earlier meiosis report for Ethiopian materials.
Substances use and its association with socio-demographic, family, and environment-related factors among technical and vocational education and training college students in Ataye, Ethiopia. Institution-based cross-sectional study 
Authors: wubetu abate dargie , Getachew Sintayehu , Negash Wassie
Published: November 2020

Background: Legal substances use is prevalent in Ethiopia. Substance use can have several health problems that are potentially harmful to educational performance, social issues, psychological and physical wellbeing. This study aimed to know the prevalence of lifetime and last month’s substance use and its associated factors among technical and vocational education and training College students in Ataye town. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 March to last May 2019. Participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data collected by using a structured and pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data collected by five trained diploma nurses with close supervision. Odds ratio with their 95% confidence interval, and p-value less than 0.05 used to declare the statistical significance of associated factors. Results: Four hundred eighty-three individuals participated in the study, which was a response rate of 94%. The prevalence of lifetime legal substance use was 32.5% (95% CI: 28.2, 36.5). The prevalence of last month's legal substances use was 21.9% (95% CI= 18.2, 25.5). Among lifetime legal substance users, the majority (25.5%) chewed khat. The others, (19.5%) drunk alcohol, and, 15.3% smoked cigarettes in a lifetime. Lifetime cannabis and cocaine users were 2.5%, and 7.2% respectively. Among last month's legal substance users, (21.9%) chewed khat followed by alcohol drinking (16.6%), and cigarette smoking (15.3%). In the last month, 1.2% and 3.3% of students used cannabis and cocaine respectively. Multivariate logistic regression showed that being male, having a divorced family, living greater than twenty years in the town, having substance user family members, having intimate friend substance users, and easy availability of substances were independent predictors of lifetime legal substances use.Conclusions: The prevalence of last month and lifetime legal substance use at Ataye Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students were analogous with most studies done in Ethiopia. It is advisable if the college administrators work together with town administrators to mitigate the problem including closing substance use houses around the school. Overall, Substance use among adolescents should get further emphasis to lower the prevalence.
Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Endophthalmitis: Case Series and Review of Literature
Authors: Pinitpuwadol Warinyupa , Tesavibul Nattaporn , Boonsophon Sutasinee , Sakiyalak Darin , Sarunket Sucheera , Choopong Pitipol
Published: November 2020

Background: To report three cases of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) endophthalmitis following multiple ocular surgeries and to review previous literature in order to study the clinical profile, treatment modalities, and visual outcomes among patients with NTM endophthalmitis.Methods: Clinical manifestation and management of patients with NTM endophthalmitis in the Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand were described. In addition, a review of previously reported cases and case series from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL was performed. The clinical information and type of NTM from the previous studies and our cases were summarized.Results: We reported three cases of NTM endophthalmitis caused by M. haemophilum, M. fortuitum and M. abscessus and a summarized review of 112 additional cases previously published. Of 115 patients, there were 101 exogenous endophthalmitis (87.8%) and 14 endogenous endophthalmitis (12.2%). The patients’ age ranged from 13 to 89 years with mean of 60.5±17.7 years with no gender predominance. Exogenous endophthalmitis occurred in both healthy and immunocompromised hosts, mainly caused by cataract surgery (67.3%). In contrast, almost all endogenous endophthalmitis patients were immunocompromised. Among all patients, previous history of tuberculosis infection was identified in 4 cases (3.5%). Rapid growing NTMs were responsible for exogenous endophthalmitis, while endogenous endophthalmitis were commonly caused by slow growers. Treatment regimens consisted of macrolides, fluoroquinolones or aminoglycosides, which were continued for up to 12 months. Initial and final vision were generally worse than 6/60.Conclusions: NTM endophthalmitis is a serious intraocular infection that leads to irreversible loss of vision. The presentation can mimic a chronic recurrent or persistent intraocular inflammation. History of multiple intraocular surgeries or immune-deficiency in patient with chronic panuveitis should raise the practioner’s suspicion of NTM endophthalmitis. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment are important to optimize visual outcome.
Clinical outcomes of early gastric cardiac cancer treated with endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients with different indications
Authors: Fan Ting , Sun Qi , Cao Shouli , Fan Xiangshan , Huang Qin , Zhang Shu , Lv Ying , Zhang Xiaoqi , Ling Tingsheng , Wang Lei , Zou Xiaoping , Xu Guifang
Published: November 2020

Background: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been accepted as a standard treatment for early gastric cardiac cancer (EGCC). Here, we investigate the clinical outcomes of the EGCC patients who underwent ESD in different indications.Methods: From January 2011 to October 2019, we enrolled 502 EGCC lesions from 495 patients which were resected by ESD at our center. We retrospectively analyzed the short-term and long-term clinical outcomes among different indication groups.Results: The number of the patients in the absolute indication (AI), expanded indication (EI) and beyond the expanded indication (BEI) groups was 265, 137 and 93, respectively. The en bloc resection rate was 100%, 100% and 98.9% (P=0.185). The complete resection rate was 99.3%, 98.5% and 74.5%, respectively (P<0.001). During a median follow-up of 48.1 months, the lymph node metastasis rate was 0%, 0% and 2.3% (P<0.001). The distant metastasis rate was 0.4%, 0% and 2.3% (P=0.150). The five-year disease-specific survival rate in the BEI group was 96.6% (P=0.016), compared to 99.6% in the AI group and 100% in the EI group.Conclusion: The efficacy for ESD patients in EI group was almost equal to the AI group. Patients in the BEI group showed generally favorable clinical outcomes and needed to be carefully checked after ESD. ESD may be an optional treatment for patients unsuitable for gastrectomy.
A cross-sectional study on associations of physical symptoms, health self-efficacy, and suicidal ideation among Chinese hospitalized cancer patients
Authors: Xu Qingyi , Jia Shuhua , Fukasawa Maiko , Lin Lin , Na Jun , Mu Zhen , Li Bo , Li Ningning , Zhao Tong , Ju Zaishuang , He Meng , Yu Lianzheng , Kawakami Norito , Li Yuejin , Jiang Chao
Published: November 2020

Background: Epidemiological studies have shown increased risk of suicide in cancer patients compared with the general population. The present study aimed to examine the association between physical symptoms and suicidal ideation in Chinese hospitalized cancer patients and test the modifying effect of health self-efficacy on the association. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 544 hospitalized cancer patients in two general hospitals in northeast China via face-to-face interviews. Suicidal ideation was measured by using the first four items on the Yale Evaluation of Suicidality scale and then dichotomized into a positive and negative score. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the impacts of physical symptoms, health self-efficacy, and their interactions on suicidal ideation.Results: The suicidal ideation rate was 26.3% in the enrolled cancer patients. Logistic regression showed that insomnia (aOR=1.84, 95% CI 1.13 to 3.00, p =0.015) and lack of appetite (aOR=2.14, 95% CI 1.26 to 3.64, p =0.005) were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Low health self-efficacy had a marginally significant exaggerating effect on the association between pain and suicidal ideation (aOR = 2.77, 95% CI 0.99 to 7.74, p =0.053), after adjusting for significant socio-demographics, clinical characteristics, and depression. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate significant associations between physical symptoms (insomnia and/or lack of appetite) and suicidal ideation and highlight the potential modifying role of health self-efficacy in the identification and prevention of suicide among cancer patients.
The changes of gut microbiota in drug-naïve first-episode MDD patients under treatment by SSRIs
Authors: Shen Yang , Yang Xiao , Li Gaofei , Xing Xiaoxi , Li Zhiyong , Huang Yichen , Gao Jiayu , Liang Ying
Published: November 2020

Background: Recently, several studies reported that transplanting feces from depressed patients could induce depression-like behaviors in mice. In addition, antidepressants not only have antidepressant effects, but also have modulation of the gut microbiota in those animals. Therefore, this study firstly investigated on the changes of gut microbiota in depressed patients under effective antidepressant treatment.Methods: We recruited 30 patients with drug-naive first-episode MDD (Patients group) and 30 healthy controls (Control group), and collected their fecal samples to complete 16S rRNA sequencing. Next, the Patients group received individualised treatment with escitalopram with a maximum dose of 20mg/d. After depressive symptoms improved to a HAMD scale score >50%, a second fecal sample was collected. This was classified as the follow-up group. We then investigated into the differences of gut microbiota between patients (Patients and Follow-up groups) and controls (Control group), the characteristics of gut microbiota under treatment, and the potential differences in metabolic functions.Results: A significant difference in gut microbiota abundance was found after escitalopram treatment. The Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio significantly decreased in the Follow-up group. After treatment, the species diversity of gut microbiota tended to be back to normal state in Follow-up group. The mainly difference of metabolic function were found as follows: Transport and catabolism, Nervous system, Glycan biosynthesis and metabolism.Conclusions: Under escitalopram treatment, the gut microbiota diversity of MDD patients tended to back to normal state. However, several structures and metabolic pathways in microbes remained differences between patients and controls.
Birth weight and renal markers in children aged 5 – 10 years in Cameroon: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kaze Francois Folefack , Nguefack Seraphin , Asong Constantine Menkoh , Assob Jules Clement Nguedia , Nansseu Jobert Richie , Kowo Mathurin Pierre , Nzana Victorine , Kalla Ginette Claude Mireille , Halle Marie Patrice
Published: November 2020

BackgroundA relationship exists between birth weight (BW) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in postnatal kidney. Willing to fill a gap of knowledge in sub-Saharan Africa, we assessed the effect of BW on blood pressure (BP), proteinuria and GFR among Cameroonians children.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional hospital-based study from January to April 2018 at the Yaounde Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital (YGOPH). We recruited low BW (LBW) [<2500g], normal BW (NBW) [2500-3999g] and high BW (HBW) [>4000g] children, aged 5-10 years, born and followed-up at YGOPH. We collected socio-demographic, clinical (weight, height, BP), laboratory (proteinuria, creatinine), maternal and birth data. The estimated GFR was calculated using the Schwartz equation.ResultsWe included 80 children (61.2% boys) with 21 (26.2%) LBW, 45 (56.2%) NBW and 14 (15.5%) HBW; the median (interquartile range) age was 7.3 (6.3-8.1) years and 17 (21.2%) were overweight/obese. Two (2.5%) children, all with a NBW (4.4%), had an elevated BP whereas 2 (2.5%) other children, all with a LBW (9.5%), had hypertension (p=0.233). Seven (8.7%) children had proteinuria with 19%, 2.2% and 14.3% having LBW, NBW and HBW, respectively (p=0.051). Equivalent figures were 18 (22.5%), 14.3%, 24.2% and 28.6% for decreased GFR, respectively (p=0.818). There was a trend towards an inverse relationship between BW and BP, proteinuria and GFR (p>0.05).ConclusionProteinuria is more pronounced in childhood with a history of LBW and HBW while LBW children are more prone to develop hypertension. Regular follow-up is needed to implement early nephroprotective measures among children with abnormal BW.
Development and validation of multiparametric MRI-based nomogram for predicting occult metastasis risk in early tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Saenthaveesuk Pensiri , Yang Le , Zeng Bin , Xu Meng , Young Simon , Liao Guiqing , Liang Yujie
Published: November 2020

Background: Nomograms are currently used in predicting individualized outcomes in clinical oncology of several cancers. However, nomograms for evaluating occult nodal metastasis of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of lateral tongue (SCCLT) have not been widely investigated for their functionality. This retrospective cohort study was designed to address this question.Methods: This study was divided into primary and validation cohorts. The primary cohort comprised 120 patients diagnosed between 2012 and 2017, whereas the validation cohort included 41 patients diagnosed thereafter. The diagnostic value of multiparametric MRI, including radiologic tumor thickness threshold (rTTT) in three-dimensions, paralingual distance, and sublingual distance were investigated. A nomogram was developed based on stepwise logistic regression of potential predictors associated with nodal metastasis in the primary cohort and then tested for predictive accuracy in the validation cohort using area under the curve (AUC) and goodness-of-fit tests.Results: Multivariate analysis, tumor size (odd ratio [OR] 15.175, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.436-160.329, P = 0.024), rTTT (OR 11.528, 95% CI 2.483-53.530, P = 0.002), paralingual distance (OR 11.976, 95% CI 1.981-72.413, P = 0.005), and tumor location (OR 6.311, 95% CI 1.514-26.304, P = 0.011) were included in the nomogram to predict the likelihood of having cervical metastasis. A nomogram cutoff value of 210 points (sensitivity 93.8%, specificity 87.5%) was significantly different to classify the patients metastasis risk group (P < 0.001). Nomogram showed predictive accuracy with AUC 0.881 (95% CI 0.779–0.983, P < 0.001) and good calibration after the validation.Conclusions: A preoperative nomogram incorporating multiparametric MRI demonstrated good prediction and performed adequately in our study. Three-dimensional assessment of occult metastasis risk value obtained from this nomogram can assist in preoperative decision making for individual patients with early-stage SCCLT. The probability of nodal metastasis tended to be greater than 20% in patients with high metastasis risk or nomogram total score > 210 points.
A qualitative exploration of the factors associated with initiation to crystal use in Iran.
Authors: Sighaldeh Shirin Shahbazi , Zarghami Fatemeh , Shahryari Ali , Mohammadinia Ali , Ebrahimi Mohsen , Jorjani Teimoor , Hamrah Mohammad Shoaib , Charkazi Abdurrahman
Published: November 2020

Background: Crystal (methamphetamine) is a strong stimulant of addictive substances that affects the central nervous system. The consumption of this substance is increasing among teenagers and adult young people in the country. In this matter, one of the practical and important ways to its control is to identify the factors leading to its first use. Thus this paper, explores the factors related to the first crystal use in Golestan province, Iran.Methods: In a qualitative study, 19 crystal users were recruited in the study conducted in Golestan province by snowball sampling from DIC (Drop-In Center) in addiction treatment centers. The interviews were mostly carried out individually with the participants; only one interview was conducted in an addiction treatment camp in the form of a group-focused discussion. Data analysis was implemented through content analysis in MAXQDA 10 software.Results: The mean age of the participants was 35.05± 6.06 years with a range of 23-46 years. Meanwhile, the mean of crystal use period was 7.42 (SD:3.61) and a range of 1-14 years. Based on the obtained data, the reasons for first crystal use could be categorized in six; 1: "crystal use to other drugs rehabilitation"; 2: "Lack of awareness of the addictive nature of crystal"; 3: “stimulating curiosity in public with crystal-use friends” , 4: affordable and convenient use”, 5: "anti-sleeping effects and increasing work efficiency", and 6: "therapeutic and other misconceptions”".Conclusions: The results indicated that crystal is mostly abused to opium rehabilitation. The lack of awareness and misconceptions about this substance can lead people to crystal use. Therefore, designing public health interventions to increase awareness about negative consequences of crystal use is fundamental to prevent people from abusing it. We suggest designing public health program to promote awareness about health risks of crystal and modifying related misconceptions. Finally, the government can establish policies to mandate sale tax for crystal producers and reduce easy access to crystal especially among youth.
Alcoholic fatty liver disease inhibited the co-expression of Fmo5 and PPARα to activate the NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby reducing liver injury via inducing gut microbiota disturbance 
Authors: Kong Ling jian , Chen Jing , Ji Xiao li , Qin Qian , Yang Hui yu , Liu Dan , Li De liang , Sun Mei ling
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAlcohol-induced intestinal dysbiosis disrupts and inflammatory responses are essential in the development of alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD). Here, we investigated the effects of Fmo5 on changes in enteric microbiome composition in a model of AFLD and dissected the pathogenic role of Fmo5 in AFLD-induced liver pathology.MethodsThe expression profile data of GSE8006 and GSE40334 datasets were downloaded from the GEO database. The WGCNA approach allowed us to investigate the AFLD-correlated module. DEGs were used to perform KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. Four PPI networks were constructed using the STRING database and visualized using Cytoscape software. The Cytohubba plug-in was used to identify the hub genes. Western blot and immunohistochemistry assays were used to detect protein expression. ELISA assay was used to detect the levels of serum inflammatory cytokines. Lipid droplets in the cytoplasm were observed using Oil Red O staining. Apoptosis was detected using a TUNEL assay and flow cytometry analysis. ROS levels were detected using flow cytometry analysis. Nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 was observed using immunofluorescence staining. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to detect the co-expression of PPARα and Fmo5 in L02 cells. 16S rDNA sequencing defined the bacterial communities in mice with AFLD.ResultsFmo5 is a key DEG and is closely associated with the gut microbiota and PPAR signaling pathway. Gut microbiome function in AFLD was significantly related to the PPAR signaling pathway. AFLD induced shifts in various bacterial phyla in the cecum, including a reduction in Bacteroidetes and increased Firmicutes. Fmo5 and PPARα co-expression in cell and animal models with AFLD, which decreased significantly. Silencing of Fmo5 and PPARα aggravated the functions of AFLD inducing apoptosis and inflammatory response, promoting liver injury, and activating the NF-κB signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. The NF-κB inhibitor abolished the functions of silencing of Fmo5 and PPARα promoting AFLD-induced apoptosis, inflammatory response, and liver injury.ConclusionOur data indicated that the co-expression of Fmo5 and PPARα was involved in AFLD-related gut microbiota composition and alleviated AFLD-induced liver injury, apoptosis, and inflammatory response by inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 to inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway.
Effectiveness of the Close Collaboration with Parents intervention on parent-infant closeness in NICU
Authors: He Felix , Axelin Anna , Ahlqvist-Björkroth Sari , Raiskila Simo , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Lehtonen Liisa
Published: November 2020

BackgroundParent-infant closeness during hospital care of newborns has many benefits for both infants and parents. We developed an educational intervention for neonatal staff, Close Collaboration with Parents, to increase parent-infant closeness during hospital care. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention on parent-infant closeness in nine hospitals in Finland.MethodsParents of hospitalized infants were recruited in the hospitals during 3-month periods before and after the Close Collaboration with Parents intervention. The data were collected using daily Closeness diaries. Mothers and fathers separately filled in the time they spent in the hospital and the time of skin-to-skin contact with their infant during each hospital care day until discharge. Statistical analyses were done using a linear model with covariates.ResultsDiaries were kept before and after the intervention by a total of 170 and 129 mothers and 126 and 84 fathers, respectively. Either parent was present on average 453 minutes per day before the intervention and 620 minutes after the intervention in the neonatal unit. In the adjusted model, the increase was 99 minutes per day (p=0.0007). The infants were in skin-to-skin contact on average 76 minutes per day before the intervention and 114 minutes after the intervention. In the adjusted model, skin-to-skin contact increased by 24 minutes per day (p=0.0405).ConclusionThe Close Collaboration with Parents intervention increased parents’ presence and skin-to-skin contact in nine hospitals. This study suggests that parent-infant closeness may be one mediating factor explaining benefits of parenting interventions.
Metabolic Engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for High-Level Production of Gastrodin from Glucose
Authors: Yin Hua , Hu Tian Dong , Zhuang Yi Bin , Liu Tao
Published: November 2020

Background: The natural phenolic glycoside gastrodin is the major bioactive ingredient in the well-known Chinese herb Tianma and is widely used as a neuroprotective medicine in the clinic. Microbial production from sustainable resources is a promising method to replace plant extraction and chemical synthesis which were currently used in industrial gastrodin production. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is considered as an attractive host to produce natural plant products used in the food and pharmaceutical fields. In this work, we intended to explore the potential of S. cerevisiae as the host for high-level production of gastrodin from glucose. Results: Here, we first identified the plant-derived glucosyltransferase AsUGT to convert 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol to gastrodin with high catalytic efficiency in yeast. Then, we engineered de novo production of gastrodin by overexpressing codon-optimized AsUGT syn , the carboxylic acid reductase gene CAR syn from Nocardia species, the phosphopantetheinyl transferase gene PPTcg-1 syn from Corynebacterium glutamicum , the chorismate pyruvate-lyase gene UbiC syn from Escherichia coli , and the mutant ARO4 K229L . Finally, we achieved an improved product titer by a chromosomal multiple-copy integration strategy and enhancement of metabolic flux toward the aglycon 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol. The best optimized strain produced 2.1 g/L gastrodin in mineral medium with glucose as the sole carbon source by flask fermentation, which was 175 times higher than that of the original gastrodin-producing strain. Conclusions: The de novo high-level production of gastrodin was first achieved. Instead of chemical synthesis or plants extraction, our work provides an alternative strategy for the industrial production of gastrodin by microbial fermentation from a sustainable resource.
Association of meat consumption with NAFLD risk and liver-related biochemical indexes in older Chinese: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Peng Hewei , Xie Xiaoxu , Pan Xinting , Zheng Jing , Zeng Yidan , Cai Xiaoling , Hu Zhijian , Peng Xian-E
Published: November 2020

Background: Non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease and an unhealthy lifestyle can lead to an increased risk of NAFLD. The present study aims to evaluate the association of meat consumption with NAFLD risk and liver-related biochemical indexes in middle-aged and elderly Chinese.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in individuals who were 45 years or older and underwent a physical examination from April 2015 to August 2017 in Southeast China. To evaluate associations between meat intake and NAFLD risk, inverse probability of treatment weighting and subgroup analyses were performed with logistic regressions. Spearman’s rank correlation was carried out to examine the relationship between meat consumptions and liver-related biochemical indexes. Results: High consumptions of red meat (28.44-49.74 and >71.00 g/day) (ORadjusted=1.948; P<0.001; ORadjusted=1.714; P=0.002) was positively associated with NAFLD risk on inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis, adjusting for smoking, tea intake, weekly hours of physical activity and presence of hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes. Exposure-response relationship analysis presented that red meat intake was positively associated with NAFLD risk. Significant associations of red meat intakes with serum levels of γ-glutamyl transferase, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, total triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were found (rs=0.176; P<0.001; rs=0.128; P<0.001; rs=0.060; P=0.016; rs=0.085; P=0.001; rs=-0.074; P=0.003). Conclusions: These findings suggest that the reduction of meat consumption may decrease NAFLD risk and should warrant further investigations.