bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of diabetes on mortality of COVID-19
Authors: Yang Yan , Zhong Wen , Tian Yuan , Xie Chunguang , Fu Xiaoxu , Zhou Hui
Published: June 2020

Background:

Novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) is a very serious and urgent infectious disease. With the development of global economy and the improvement of living standard, the incidence of diabetes is increasing year by year. And it is more common in the elderly. COVID-19 is associated with much chronic disease, especially diabetes. At present, there is no systematic review and meta-analysis of mortality based on large scale of data between diabetes and COVID-19 all over the world.

Methods and analysis:

The databases of PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Wanfang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure database (CNKI) and VIP were searched by computer, and the researches related to diabetes mellitus and mortality of COVID-19 were collected. The searching time was from the establishment of the database to April 30 2020. The meta-analysis was carried out by Review Manager Version 5.3 and stata 14.0 software for Mac software after 2 researchers independently selected literature, extracted data and evaluated the bias risk. The main outcome was the mortality of COVID-19 which was included in meta-analysis and subgroup analysis. The bias of the study was evaluated independently by NOS scale, and published by funnel chart. The sensitivity was analyzed row by row.

Results:

The results will be published at a peer-reviewed journal.

Registration number: INPLASY202040158.
Association of early vertebroplasty with risk of hip replacement
Authors: Li Chiao-Zhu , Li Chiao-Ching , Tang Chi-Tun , Chung Chi-Hsiang , Ou Chien-Yu , Chen Chun-Lin , Chen Nan-Fu , Chung Tzu-Tsao , Hueng Dueng-Yuan , Ma Hsin-I , Liu Ming-Ying , Chen Yuan-Hao , Chien Wu-Chien , Ju Da-Tong
Published: June 2020

Studies show that vertebral fractures could predict the risk of hip fractures. We aimed to evaluate the potential benefits of whether the timing of vertebroplasty (VP) for vertebral fracture associated with the risk of hip fracture for hip replacement.

We identified 142,782 patients from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database with thoracolumbar vertebral fracture (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification:805.2–805.9) who were followed up from 2000 to 2013. These patients were divided into those who underwent VP (VP group) (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification : 78.49) within 3 months and those who did not (non-VP group). After adjusting for the confounding factors, the Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to estimate the effect of early VP on reducing the risk of hip fracture. The difference in the risk of hip replacement, between the VP group and non-VP group was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test.

In the 14-year follow-up, the cumulative incidence rate of hip replacement in the VP group was lower than that in the non-VP group (0.362% and 0.533%, respectively, long-rank P < .001). There was a significant difference between the 2 groups since the first-year follow-up.

Our study showed that early VP performed to avoid progression of the kyphotic changes following thoracolumbar vertebral fracture may reduce the risk of hip fracture. These results, obtained from retrospective data, indicate that a prospective study is warranted.
Prognostic significance of preoperative serum albumin, albumin-to-globulin ratio, and prognostic nutritional index for patients with glioma
Authors: Liu Mingchang , Wang Liwen
Published: June 2020

Background:

The serum albumin, albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR), and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) have been recommended to represent the nutritional and inflammatory status. Thus, they may be potential prognostic biomarkers for cancer. However, contradictory results were reported in different studies on glioma. The goal of this study was to perform a meta-analysis to re-evaluate their prognostic potential for glioma.

Methods:

Databases of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched to enroll all the studies investigating the prognostic significance of albumin, AGR, and PNI for glioma. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using STATA 13.0 software to indicate the intensity of association.

Results:

Eleven studies with 2928 cases were included. Overall meta-analysis showed that the prognostic values of albumin, AGR, and PNI were limited for glioma (P > .05). However, subgroup analysis demonstrated a high preoperative serum albumin was significantly related with excellent OS of patients with GBM (HR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.91–0.99, P = .018), while high PNI (HR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.43–0.73, P < .001) and AGR (HR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.34–0.96, P = .034) may be a protective factor of favorable OS for patients with high-grade gliomas. Furthermore, integration of all studies with multivariate analysis and clear cut-off also proved reduced preoperative serum albumin, AGR, and PNI were predictors of poor prognosis for patients with gliomas.

Conclusion:

Preoperative serum albumin, AGR, and PNI may represent promising biomarkers to predict the prognosis in patients with glioma, especially for high-grade.
Efficacy of raman spectroscopy in the diagnosis of kidney cancer
Authors: Jin Hongyu , He Xiao , Zhou Hui , Zhang Man , Tang Qingqing , Lin Lede , Hao Jianqi , Zeng Rui
Published: June 2020

Objective:

To comprehensively analyze the relative effectiveness of Raman spectroscopy (RS) in the diagnosis of suspected kidney cancer.

Patients and methods:

We performed a complete systematic review based on studies from PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Web of Science, Ovid, Web of Knowledge, Cochrane Library and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. We identified 2413 spectra with strict criteria in 6 individual studies published between January 2008 and November 2018 in accordance to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. We summarized the test performance using random effects models.

Results:

General pooled diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of RS to kidney cancer were 0.96 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95–0.97) and 0.91 (95% CI 0.89–0.92). The pooled positive likelihood ratio (LR) was 9.57 (95% CI 5.73–15.46) while the negative LR was 0.04 (95% CI 0.02–0.11). The pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 238.06 (95% CI 77.79–728.54). The area under curve of summary receiver operator characteristics was 0.9466.

Conclusion:

Through this meta-analysis, we found a promisingly high sensitivity and specificity of RS in the diagnosis of suspected kidney masses and tumors. Other parameters like positive LR, negative LR, diagnostic odds ratio and area under curve of the summary receiver operator characteristics curve all helped to illustrate the high efficacy of RS in the diagnosis of kidney cancer.
Exercise-induced hypertension is associated with angiotensin II activity and total nitric oxide
Authors: Kim Chul-Hyun , Park Yongbum , Chun Min Young , Kim Young-Joo
Published: June 2020

Angiotensin II mediates exercise-induced hypertension (EIH), which adversely impacts future cardiovascular health. There is paucity of data on the association between EIH and angiotensin II in well-trained middle-aged marathoners. Therefore, we investigated the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system and total nitric oxide activity in middle-aged marathoners with EIH.

Seventy middle-aged marathoners were divided into 3 groups: normal blood pressure ([NBPG] [n = 21]), EIH group ([EIHG] [n = 35]), and complex hypertension group ([CHG] [n = 14]). We defined NBPG as resting systolic BP/diastolic BP (SBP/DBP) of ≤140/90 mm Hg and maximal exercise SBP of ≤210 mm Hg, EIHG as resting SBP/DBP ≤140/90 mm Hg and maximal exercise SBP of ≥210 mm Hg, and CHG as resting SBP/DBP ≥140/90 mm Hg and maximal exercise SBP of ≥210 mm Hg. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system and NO levels were measured before and 30 minutes after the graded exercise test.

Renin level was elevated while angiotensin level was reduced after 30 minutes of graded exercise test. There was no change in angiotensin I and angiotensin converting enzyme levels. Comparing the groups, renin level was only elevated in the CHG during recovery, while aldosterone level was higher than the baseline level in the recovery phase in all groups. Angiotensin I level remained unchanged in all groups. Angiotensin II level reduced significantly in the NBPG group but remained at the baseline in the EIHG and CHG groups. NO level was unchanged in the NBPG group but reduced in the EIHG and CHG groups after exercise. At 3 minutes of recovery, SBP was the highest in the NBPG group, followed by the EIHG and CHG groups (P < .05).

In conclusion, angiotensin II activity and reduced NO level are associated with EIH in middle-aged long-distance runners. Angiotensin II inhibitors may; therefore, be the more appropriate antihypertensive medication for runners with EIH.
Efficacy of clomifene citrate combined Bushen Culuan Decoction for the treatment of infertility caused by polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Feng Jing , Zhang Xiao-feng , Ren Jie-ning , Huang Yu-hua , Zheng Xin
Published: June 2020

Background:

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of clomifene citrate combined Bushen Culuan Decoction (CCBCD) in treating infertility caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods:

We will carry out this study to identify eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in Cochrane Library, PUBMED, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure from inception to the present. There are no limitations to the language and publication time. We will perform study selection, data extraction, and study quality assessment. If possible, a meta-analysis will be developed to judge the comparative efficacy and safety of CCBCD with other treatments.

Results:

The results of this study will summarize current high quality RCTs to provide direct evidence of CCBCD in treating infertility in patients with PCOS.

Conclusion:

This study may provide evidence to determine whether CCBCD is effective and safe or not for the treatment of infertility caused by PCOS.

Study registration:

INPLASY202050090.
Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy combined with systemic chemotherapy for gastric cancer peritoneal carcinomatosis
Authors: Lu Yidan , Jin Zheng , Zheng Song , Bai Yurong , Sun Yangcheng
Published: June 2020

Background:

The prognosis of gastric cancer peritoneal carcinomatosis (GCPC) remains poor despite recent advances in systemic chemotherapy (SC) with an average survival less than 6 months. Current evidence supporting the utility of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) combined with SC for GCPC is limited. We plan to provide a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the comparative effects and safety of HIPEC combined with SC in the management of GCPC.

Methods:

Randomized controlled trials evaluating HIPEC combined with SC versus SC as first-line treatment for GCPC will be searched in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar, from database inception to April 30, 2020. Data on study design, participant characteristics, intervention details, and outcomes will be extracted. Primary outcomes to be assessed are: median progression-free survival; secondary outcomes are: median survival time, 1- year survival rate, 2-year survival rate, objective response rate, and adverse events. Meta-analysis will be performed using RevMan V.5.3 statistical software. Data will be combined with a random effect model. Study quality will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Heterogeneity will be assessed, and if necessary, a subgroup analysis will be performed to explore the source of heterogeneity.

Results:

The results will provide useful information about the effectiveness and safety of HIPEC combined with systemic chemotherapy regimens in patients with gastric cancer peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Conclusion:

The findings of the study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journal.

The registration number:

INPLASY202050006.

DOI number:

10.37766/inplasy2020.5.0006.
Multiple symmetric lipomatosis with secondary laryngeal obstruction
Authors: Cui Yu , Cui Xiangyan , Gao Shengrui , Zhu Zhanpeng , Yin Wanzhong
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Multiple symmetric lipomatosis (MSL) is an uncommon medical condition characterized by symmetric fat accumulation mainly in the neck and other upper body regions. The involvement of the larynx is rare according to the literature, and we present a case of MSL with larynx involvement treated with a surgical approach.

Patient concerns:

A 55-year-old male was admitted to our hospital due to progressively aggravated breathing difficulty, and tracheotomy was performed before transfer. When he tried to block the cannula, the breathing difficulty returned. The patient's neck had been thickening for the past 2 years.

Diagnosis:

Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of MSL.

Interventions:

The patient underwent lumpectomy and neck exploration.

Outcomes:

The lipoma was removed, the patient was free of any dyspnea symptoms and recovered well, and the tracheal cannula was removed at a local hospital.

Conclusion:

MSL can infiltrate the larynx and grow into the preepiglottic space and paraglottic spaces, resulting in breathing difficulties. Lipomas present in the spaces described above must be removed at the same time; otherwise, symptoms of dyspnea cannot be alleviated.
An unusual complication of pyloric ring obstruction caused by flange of lumen apposing metal stent in endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage
Authors: Seo Seung Young , Lee Chang Hun , Kim In Hee , Kim Sang Wook , Lee Seung Ok , Lee Soo Teik , Kim Seong-Hun
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) is an alternative treatment option for patients with acute cholecystitis, especially for those who are unsuitable for cholecystectomy. Recently used luminal apposing metal stents (LAMS) in EUS-GBD has several advantages over standard metal stents. However, there is no current guideline on where to locate the LAMS when transgastric approach is required. This study reports a case of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) by placing LAMS too close to the pyloric ring.

Patient concerns:

A 79-year-old female patient was referred to our department for evaluation of a large hepatic mass on abdominal ultrasound. Abdominal pain on right upper quadrant and spiking fever up to 38 °C appeared after liver biopsy. Abdominal ultrasound showed thickened GB wall and positive sonographic Murphy sign.

Diagnoses:

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with multiple lung and intrahepatic metastasis, acute cholecystitis, and pyloric ring obstruction caused by flange of LAMS in EUS-GBD.

Interventions:

EUS-GBD via transgastric approach was performed with LAMS. After complete deployment of stent, esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed complete GOO by flange of LAMS. A gastroduodenal metal stent was inserted to relieve the GOO.

Outcomes:

The patient recovered well. She did not complain about obstruction induced symptom such as vomiting or abdominal fullness after gastroduodenal stent insertion.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of EUS-GBD induced GOO. If physicians use LAMS as a transgastric approach in EUS-GBD, the puncture site should be carefully selected considering the size of the flange.
Electrical stimulation for limb spasticity in children with stroke
Authors: Nie Jing , Wang He , Jiang Quan-wei , Zhang Ying , Zhang Zhi-guang , Mei Mei
Published: June 2020

Background:

This systematic review protocol will appraise the effectiveness and safety of electrical stimulation (ES) for limb spasticity (LS) in children with stroke.

Methods:

Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PUBMED, PsycINFO, Scopus, OpenGrey, CINAHL, ACMD, CNKI, and WANGFANG will be systematically retrieved for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing the effectiveness of ES compared with other interventions on LS in children with stroke. Two independent authors will evaluate eligibility using predefined criteria and will perform data extraction and study quality appraisal of eligible trials. Primary outcomes include gait velocity, and limb spasticity status. Limb function, quality of life, pain intensity, and adverse events will be assessed as secondary outcomes. We will perform data analysis using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results:

This systematic review will summarize the most recent evidence to assess the effectiveness and safety of ES for LS in children with stroke.

Conclusions:

The results of this study may help to determine whether ES is effective or not for LS in children with stroke.

Study registration:

INPLASY202050115.
A single-center analysis of primary nephrotic syndrome with acute pancreatitis in children
Authors: Hao Sheng , Wu Ying , Kang Yulin , Niu Xiaoling , Zhu Guanghua , Huang Wenyan
Published: June 2020

Primary nephrotic syndrome (PNS) is one of the most common primary glomerular diseases in children. Patients complicated nephrotic syndrome with pancreatic lesions are rarely reported, and the clinical manifestations in children are atypical. This study has observed the incidence, clinical types, and prognosis of acute pancreatitis (AP) in children with primary nephrotic syndrome, and analyzed its related factors, early diagnosis, and treatment.

Seven children with PNS and AP in Shanghai Children's Hospital from January 2015 to December 2017 were reviewed. The clinical data including age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), diet, biliary tract disease, PNS durations, drugs, proteinuria, creatinine, glucose, glycated hemoglobin, amylase and lipase, albumin, cholesterol, triglyceride, ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT), renal pathology and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were followed for >2 years.

Ten in 589 patients with PNS were detected pancreatic lesions by abdominal ultrasound. Seven were diagnosed as AP, which the incidence was 1.2%. Only 1 of 7 patients had elevated serum amylase. Lesions of pancreas were found by ultrasound and/or enhanced CT. Four of 7 patients had been treated with tacrolimus. All patients with AP were improved after octreotide acetate injection and supportive treatment. Only 1 patient suffered recurrent AP during the relapse of PNS 10 months later.

AP in children with PNS is not common, and the clinical manifestations are not typical. Abdominal ultrasound and enhanced CT are of high value in diagnosis. The adverse effects of tacrolimus should be concerned. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can be helpful for a prognosis.
Traditional medicine treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome
Authors: Hwang Ji Hye , Ku Sujeong , Jeong Jin-Ho
Published: June 2020

Background:

Diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is challenging; however, proper evaluation and treatment ensure relief from symptoms in most patients. A comprehensive approach to treatment is important, considering the multifactorial etiology of TOS. The objective of this systematic review is to describe the methods for evaluating the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture-based traditional medicine treatments for TOS.

Methods:

A total of 13 databases will be searched, from their inception to the present date, for studies that have investigated the treatment of TOS. Databases that will be included are MEDLINE, Embase, AMED, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and 4 Korean, 2 Chinese, and 2 Japanese databases.

We will include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing acupuncture-based traditional medicine for the treatment of any type of TOS. All RCTs on traditional medicine with any form of acupuncture will be eligible for inclusion. The methodologic quality of the RCTs will be analyzed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool to assess the risk of bias, and the confidence in the cumulative evidence will be assessed using the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation instrument.

Ethics and dissemination:

The results of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated both electronically and in print. The review will be updated to inform and guide health care practices.

Trial registration number:

PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020164869
Diagnostic value of ultrasound-guided needle biopsy in undiagnosed pleural effusions
Authors: Lin Zhidi , Wu Donghong , Wang Jinlin , Wang Chuqiao , Huang Mingkai
Published: June 2020

Background and Objective:

Undiagnosed pleural effusions (UPEs) are a common problem of respiratory medicine, leading to an increased diagnostic burden globally. However, the most efficient and cost-effective approaches to UPEs remain controversial. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic value of ultrasound-guided needle biopsy (UGNB) in UPEs.

Methods:

We conducted a search of PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and reference lists of retrieved studies with no publication data limitation. Articles that investigated the diagnostic accuracy of UGNB in UPEs were included. The quality of eligible studies was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2. The diagnostic value of UGNB was evaluated by calculating the pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds rate, and the area under the curve for the summary receiver operating characteristic curve using a random effects model.

Results:

Seven studies comprising 165 patients with UPEs met the inclusion criteria. UGNB had a pooled sensitivity of 83% (95% confidence intervals [CI], 75% - 89%), a specificity of 100% (95% CI, 90% - 100%), a positive likelihood ratio of 8.89 (95% CI, 3.29 - 24.02), a negative likelihood ratio of 0.23 (95% CI, 0.16 - 0.33), a diagnostic odds rate of 51.47 (95% CI, 14.70 - 180.16), and an area under the curve of 0.94. Six pneumothorax cases (3.6%), 5 local wound infections (3.0%), and 1 empyema case (less than 1%) were observed. There was no significant heterogeneity or publication bias in this study.

Conclusions:

Based on current evidence, UGNB is a safe and convenient procedure with a high accuracy for diagnosing UPEs. However, physicians should still be cautious in interpreting negative UGNB results.
A case report of late-onset symptoms of erythrocytosis in univentricular dextrocardia
Authors: Shen Lishui , Zhao Jin , Yuan Tingting , Li Mengjie , Cheng Yun
Published: June 2020

Rationale:

Univentricular dextrocardia is a rare congenital heart disease that usually presents cyanotic manifestations from childhood. Due to the sustained dysfunction of blood oxygenation, it is very difficult to keep an asymptomatic survival. Herein, we described an interesting case of univentricular dextrocardia who suffered from initial symptoms in his middle age.

Patient concerns:

A 54-year-old male patient with numbness and tingling of limbs was admitted to hospital due to the secondary manifestations of congenital heart disease.

Diagnosis:

The patient was diagnosed as univentricular dextrocardia with pulmonary hypertension and secondary erythrocytosis based on computed tomography (CT) scan, echocardiography, and laboratory examinations.

Interventions:

Intravenous hydration therapy with normal saline successfully eliminated his hyperviscosity associated symptoms. In view of socio-economic reasons, this patient refused surgical evaluation and further medical interventions.

Outcomes:

During 18-month follow up, he received no drug except for regular water intake. Fortunately, his life quality was satisfactory, and no other symptoms emerged except for mild numbness of limbs.

Lessons:

In univentricular dextrocardia, it is possible to keep a long-term asymptomatic period due to the slow progress of pathophysiology. In this population, regular cardiac function evaluation and avoiding dehydration may help improve the quality of life.
Demodex-induced Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei
Authors: Luo Yang , Wu Lan-Xi , Zhang Jian-Hong , Zhou Nan , Luan Xiu-Li
Published: June 2020

Rationale:

Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF) is an inflammatory granulomatous skin disease without a clear etiology that frequently involves the middle area of the face and the upper eyelids. Pathological features of the disease include caseation necrosis and epithelioid granuloma. Consensus treatment for LMDF is currently unavailable.

Patient concerns:

A 47-year-old Chinese female patient who presented with facial pruritic, erythematous papules 8 months before this study. She was diagnosed with skin tuberculosis at another hospital and given antituberculosis medication. However, the treatment was not efficacious.

Diagnoses:

In this study, the diagnosis of Demodex-induced LMDF was made by a dermatologist according to physical examination, skin biopsy pathology, and microscopic examination.

Interventions:

The patient was given ornidazole tablets (500 mg twice a day) and recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor gel (0.2 g/cm2 twice a day) for an 8-week period.

Outcomes:

Eight weeks after the treatment, the facial erythematous papules were improved, and no new skin lesions were observed. The patient showed no signs of recurrence during the 6-month follow-up.

Lessons subsections:

This case showed that ornidazole combined with recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor gel might be useful in treatment of Demodex-induced LMDF. In addition, the results suggested that pathological caseation necrosis was caused by a series of inflammatory and immune responses to Demodex infection.
Myeloid sarcoma of the nasal cavity in a 15-month-old child
Authors: Liu Ruowu , Du Jintao , Gao Limin , Liu Yafeng , Liu Shixi
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is a rare tumor mass. It may occur at any extramedullary anatomic sites but is uncommon in the sinonasal location.MS commonly presents concurrently with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but it may predate AML over several months or years, named isolated MS.

Patient concerns:

We report a case of a 15-month-old child who presented with mouth breathing, bilateral rhinorrhea, palpebral edema and proptosis. The routine blood tests were normal for the first few months. Computed tomography scan revealed neoplasm in nasal cavity.

Diagnosis:

The patient was definitely diagnosed with isolated MS in the nasal cavity through immunohistochemistry combined with clinical features and radiological investigations, and MS further progressed to AML which was confirmed by hematologist.

Interventions:

Endoscopic sinus surgery was performed to acquire specimens. After diagnosis, the patient was promptly treated with systemic chemotherapy.

Outcomes:

All symptoms gradually subsided and the mass of nasal cavity was invisible. No relapse occurred during follow-up.

Conclusion:

Sinonasal MS may be misdiagnosed and should be considered when symptoms persist and worsen. Prompt clinic examinations are essential for cases with suspected MS. Diagnosis of MS is dependent on the immunohistological investigations combined with clinical features, radiological investigations. Early diagnosis and systemic chemotherapy are vital for patients to achieve best prognosis.
The effect of Bushen Huoxue method in treating glaucoma
Authors: Wang Liyuan , Yu Tianyang , Sun He , Liu Ruoxi , Liu Ye
Published: June 2020

Background:

Glaucoma is a common ophthalmic neurodegenerative disease and the main cause of blindness, which seriously affects the life and work of patients, without more effective treatment for optic nerve damage. Bushen Huoxue (BSHX) method is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that has been widely used as an alternative therapy to treat optic nerve damage in glaucoma patients with growing beneficial effect evidence, however, there is no current systematic review has addressed its effect for glaucoma. This study will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the currently published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of BSHX method for the treatment of glaucoma, aim to assess the efficacy and safety of BSHX method for patients with glaucoma.

Methods:

We will thoroughly search literatures of RCTs related to BSHX method for glaucoma in PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP and Wanfang database and other databases from the establishment of the database to November 2019, with no language restriction. After reviewing the title, abstract and full text, 2 reviewers will independently select the study, extract the data, after assess the risk of bias, we will conduct a meta-analysis of the data extracted from the included RCTs, including total effective rate, intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, visual field, TCM syndrome score, and adverse events. The meta-analysis will be performed using Review Manager 5.3 software and the results will be based on either random effects or fixed effects models, depending on the heterogeneity. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) and Grading of Recommendations, Development and Evaluate system (GRADE) will be conduct to evaluate the reliability and quality of evidence.

Results:

The results of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal, and provide a reasonable and high-quality evidence for the efficacy and safety of BSHX method for glaucoma.

Conclusion:

This study will be the first meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of BSHX method in the treatment of glaucoma comprehensively, and will to provide helpful evidence for the clinical treatment of this disease.

Registration:

PROSPERO CRD42020159897
Peritransplant Cardiometabolic and Mitochondrial Function: The Missing Piece in Donor Heart Dysfunction and Graft Failure
Authors: Wells Matthew A. , See Hoe Louise E. , Heather Lisa C. , Molenaar Peter , Suen Jacky Y. , Peart Jason , McGiffin David , Fraser John F.
Published: June 2020

Primary graft dysfunction is an important cause of morbidity and mortality after cardiac transplantation. Donor brain stem death (BSD) is a significant contributor to donor heart dysfunction and primary graft dysfunction. There remain substantial gaps in the mechanistic understanding of peritransplant cardiac dysfunction. One of these gaps is cardiac metabolism and metabolic function. The healthy heart is an “omnivore,” capable of utilizing multiple sources of nutrients to fuel its enormous energetic demand. When this fails, metabolic inflexibility leads to myocardial dysfunction. Data have hinted at metabolic disturbance in the BSD donor and subsequent heart transplantation; however, there is limited evidence demonstrating specific metabolic or mitochondrial dysfunction. This review will examine the literature surrounding cardiometabolic and mitochondrial function in the BSD donor, organ preservation, and subsequent cardiac transplantation. A more comprehensive understanding of this subject may then help to identify important cardioprotective strategies to improve the number and quality of donor hearts.
Face Masks Considerably Reduce Covid-19 Cases in Germany
Authors: Mitze Timo , Kosfeld Reinhold , Rode Johannes , Wälde Klaus
Published: June 2020

We use the synthetic control method to analyze the effect of face masks on the spread of Covid-19 in Germany. Our identification approach exploits regional variation in the point in time when face masks became compulsory. Depending on the region we analyse, we find that face masks reduced the cumulative number of registered Covid-19 cases between 2.3% and 13% over a period of 10 days after they became compulsory. Assessing the credibility of the various estimates, we conclude that face masks reduce the daily growth rate of reported infections by around 40%.
Effects of Anticoagulants and Corticosteroids therapy in patients affected by severe COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Ghalilah Khalid , Sabir Abdul Momin , Alvi Irshad Ali , Alharbi Malak , Basabrain Abdulrahman , Aljundi Mahmooud , Almohammadi Ghazi , Almuairfi Zainab , Alharbi Raed
Published: June 2020

Background

In the absence of a standard of treatment for COVID-19, the combined use of anti-inflammatory (corticosteroids and Enoxaparin) and antiviral drugs may be more effective than using either modality alone in the treatment of COVID-19.

Methods

Patients hospitalized between April 10th, 2020, through May 10th, 2020, who had confirmed COVID-19 infection with clinical or radiographic evidence of pneumonia, in which 65 patients have moderate COVID-19 pneumonia, and 63 patients have severe COVID-19 pneumonia. All patients received early combination therapy of anti-inflammatory (corticosteroids and Enoxaparin) and antiviral drugs. They assessed for type and duration of treatment, and days need to wean from oxygen therapy, length of stay, virus clearance time, and complication or adverse events. All patients had more than 28 days follow up after discharge from the hospital.

Results

Moderate COVID-19 pneumonia group were 65 patients who received Enoxaparin, antiviral drugs, empirical antibiotics for pneumonia, and standard treatment for comorbidity. Male patients were 50 (76.9 %) and female patients were 15 (23.1 %). 34 (52.3 %) patients have comorbidity, 25 (38.5%) patients have Diabetes Mellitus and 2 (3.1 %) pregnant ladies. 19 (29.2 %) patients were on low flow oxygen therapy, 3L oxygen or less to maintain oxygen saturation more than 92%. All patients discharged home with no major or minor bleeding complications or significant complications. Severe COVID-19 pneumonia group were 63 patients who received methylprednisolone, enoxaparin, antiviral drugs, empirical antibiotics for pneumonia, and standard treatment for comorbidity. Male patients were 55 (87.3 %) and female patients were 8 (12.7 %). 37 (58.7 %) patients have comorbidity, and 24 (38.1%) patients have Diabetes Mellitus. 32 (50.8 %) patients were on low flow oxygen therapy, 4-9L oxygen, and 31 (49.2 %) patients were on low flow oxygen therapy, 10L oxygen or more, including 12 patients on a non-rebreathing mask. Patients received methylprednisolone were 37 (58.7 %) for 3 days, 16 (25.4 %) for 5 days and 10 (15.9 %) for more than 5 days. Sixty-two patients discharged home with one patient had a long stay, and the other two transferred to ICU. One long-stay patient transferred to ICU on low flow oxygen therapy.

Conclusion

Early use of a combined anti-inflammatory (corticosteroids and Enoxaparin) and antiviral drugs treatment in patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 pneumonia prevent complications of the disease and improve clinical outcomes
Ensemble Classification through Random Projections for single-cell RNA-seq data
Authors: Vrahatis Aristidis G. , Tasoulis Sotiris , Georgakopoulos Spiros , Plagianakos Vassilis
Published: June 2020

Nowadays the biomedical data are generated exponentially, creating datasets for analysis with ultra-high dimensionality and complexity. This revolution, which has been caused by recent advents in biotechnologies, has driven to big-data and data-driven computational approaches. An indicative example is the emerging single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology, which isolates and measures individual cells. Although scRNA-seq has revolutionized the biotechnology domain, such data computational analysis is a major challenge because of their ultra-high dimensionality and complexity. Following this direction, in this work we study the properties, effectiveness and generalization of the recently proposed MRPV algorithm for single cell RNA-seq data. MRPV is an ensemble classification technique utilizing multiple ultra-low dimensional Random Projected spaces. A given classifier determines the class for each sample for all independent spaces while a majority voting scheme defines their predominant class. We show that Random Projection ensembles offer a platform not only for a low computational time analysis but also for enhancing classification performance. The developed methodologies were applied to four real biomedical high dimensional data from single-cell RNA-seq studies and compared against well-known and similar classification tools. Experimental results showed that based on simplistic tools we can create a computationally fast, simple, yet effective approach for single cell RNA-seq data with ultra-high dimensionality.
Circadian photoperiod alters TREK-1 channel function and expression in dorsal raphe serotonergic neurons
Authors: Giannoni-Guzmán Manuel A. , Kamitakahara Anna , Magalong Valerie , Levitt Pat , McMahon Douglas G.
Published: June 2020

Seasonal daylength has been linked to the development and prevalence of mood disorders, however, the neural mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unknown. Previous work in our laboratory has shown that developmental exposure to seasonal photoperiods has enduring effects on the activity of mouse dorsal raphe serotonergic neurons, their intrinsic electrical properties, as well as on depression and anxiety-related behaviors. Here we focus on the possible ionic mechanisms that underlie the observed photoperiodic programming of the electrophysiological properties of serotonin neurons, focusing on the twin-pore K+ channels TREK-1 and TASK-1 that set resting membrane potential and regulate excitability. Using multielectrode array recordings inex vivodorsal raphe slices, we examined the effects of pharmacological inhibition of these channels on the spike rates of serotonin neurons of mice from different photoperiods. Pharmacological inhibition of TREK-1 significantly increased spike frequency in Short and Equinox photoperiod cohorts, but did not further elevate the firing rate in slices from Long photoperiod mice, suggesting that TREK-1 function is reduced in Long photoperiods. In contrast, inhibition of TASK-1 resulted in increases in firing rates across all photoperiods, suggesting that it contributes to setting excitability, but is not regulated by photoperiod. To examine if photoperiod impacts transcriptional regulation of TREK-1, we quantifiedKcnk2mRNA levels specifically in dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons using triple-label RNAscope. We found that Long photoperiod significantly reduced levels ofKcnk2in serotonin neurons co-expressingTph2, andPet-1, Photoperiodic effects on the function and expression of TREK-1 were blocked in melatonin 1 receptor knockout (MT-1KO) mice, consistent with previous findings that MT-1 signaling is necessary for photoperiodic programming of dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons. Taken together these results indicate that photoperiodic regulation of TREK-1 expression and function plays a key role in photoperiodic programming the excitability of dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons.
Sentinel Coronavirus Environmental Monitoring Can Contribute to Detecting Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Virus Spreaders and Can Verify Effectiveness of Workplace COVID-19 Controls
Authors: Marshall Douglas L. , Bois Frederic , Jensen Soren K. S. , Linde Svend Aage , Higby Richard , Rémy-McCort Yvoine , Murray Sean , Dieckelman Bryan , Sudradjat Fitri , Martin Gilles G.
Published: June 2020

Detecting all workplace asymptomatic COVID-19 virus spreaders would require daily testing of employees, which is not practical. Over a two week period, nine workplace locations were chosen to test employees for SARS-CoV-2 infection (841 tests) and high-frequency-touch point environmental surfaces (5,500 tests) for Coronavirus using Eurofins COVID-19 Sentinel™ RT-PCR methods. Of the 9 locations, 3 had one or employees infected with SARS-CoV-2, neither of whom had symptoms at the time of testing nor developed symptoms. Locations with Coronavirus contaminated surfaces were 10 times more likely to have clinically positive employees than locations with no or very few positive surfaces. Break room chairs, workbenches, and door handles were the most frequently contaminated surfaces. Coronavirus RNA was detected at very low concentrations (RT-PCR 34 to 38 Cq). Environmental monitoring can be used to validate intervention strategies and be useful to verify the effectiveness of such strategies on a regular basis.
Analysis and Visualization of Sleep Stages based on Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Krauss Patrick , Metzner Claus , Joshi Nidhi , Schulze Holger , Traxdorf Maximilian , Maier Andreas , Schilling Achim
Published: June 2020

Automatic sleep stage scoring based on deep neural networks has come into focus of sleep researchers and physicians, as a reliable method able to objectively classify sleep stages, would save human resources and thus would simplify clinical routines. Due to novel open-source software libraries for Machine Learning in combination with enormous progress in hardware development in recent years a paradigm shift in the field of sleep research towards automatic diagnostics could be observed. We argue that modern Machine Learning techniques are not just a tool to perform automatic sleep stage classification but are also a creative approach to find hidden properties of sleep physiology. We have already developed and established algorithms to visualize and cluster EEG data, in a way so that we can already make first assessments on sleep health in terms of sleep-apnea and consequently daytime vigilance. In the following study, we further developed our method by the innovative approach to analyze cortical activity during sleep by computing vectorial cross-correlations of different EEG channels represented by hypnodensity graphs. We can show that this measure serves to estimate the period length of sleep cycles and thus can help to find disturbances due to pathological conditions.
SARS-CoV-2 infection in primary schools in northern France: A retrospective cohort study in an area of high transmission
Authors: Fontanet Arnaud , Grant Rebecca , Tondeur Laura , Madec Yoann , Grzelak Ludivine , Cailleau Isabelle , Ungeheuer Marie-Noëlle , Renaudat Charlotte , Pellerin Sandrine Fernandes , Kuhmel Lucie , Staropoli Isabelle , Anna François , Charneau Pierre , Demeret Caroline , Bruel Timothée , Schwartz Olivier , Hoen Bruno
Published: June 2020

Background

The extent of SARS-CoV-2 transmission among pupils in primary schools and their families is unknown.

Methods

Between 28-30 April 2020, a retrospective cohort study was conducted among pupils, their parents and relatives, and staff of primary schools exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in February and March 2020 in a city north of Paris, France. Participants completed a questionnaire that covered sociodemographic information and history of recent symptoms. A blood sample was tested for the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies using a flow-cytometry-based assay.

Results

The infection attack rate (IAR) was 45/510 (8.8%), 3/42 (7.1%), 1/28 (3.6%), 76/641 (11.9%) and 14/119 (11.8%) among primary school pupils, teachers, non-teaching staff, parents, and relatives, respectively (P = 0.29). Prior to school closure on February 14, three SARS-CoV-2 infected pupils attended three separate schools with no secondary cases in the following 14 days among pupils, teachers and non-teaching staff of the same schools. Familial clustering of cases was documented by the high proportion of antibodies among parents and relatives of infected pupils (36/59 = 61.0% and 4/9 = 44.4%, respectively). In children, disease manifestations were mild, and 24/58 (41.4%) of infected children were asymptomatic.

Interpretation

In young children, SARS-CoV-2 infection was largely mild or asymptomatic and there was no evidence of onwards transmission from children in the school setting.
Multi- and transgenerational disruption of maternal behavior and female puberty by Endocrine Disrupting Chemical (EDC) mixture exposure
Authors: López-Rodríguez David , Aylwin Carlos Francisco , Delli Virginia , Sevrin Elena , Campanile Marzia , Martin Marion , Franssen Delphine , Gérard Arlette , Blacher Silvia , Tirelli Ezio , Noël Agnès , Lomniczi Alejandro , Parent Anne-Simone
Published: June 2020

Female reproductive development and maternal behavior are two intertwined phenotypes centrally controlled by the hypothalamus. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) can alter these processes especially when animals are exposed during development. We propose the concept that developmental exposure to a low environmentally relevant dose of EDC mixture induces a transgenerational alteration of female rat pubertal timing and ovarian physiology throughout epigenetic reprograming of hypothalamicKiss1, Esr1andOxt1loci. Such exposure also caused a multigenerational reduction of maternal behavior induced by the loss in hypothalamic dopaminergic signaling. Our results identify the hypothalamic Polycomb Group of epigenetic repressors as actors of this mechanism of transgenerational reproductive disruption. Using a cross-fostering approach, we identified that while the reduction in maternal phenotype was normalized in EDC exposed pups raised by unexposed dams, no reversal of the pubertal phenotype was achieved, suggesting a germline transmission of the reproductive phenotype.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction studies of melibiose permease
Authors: Lin Yibin
Published: June 2020

Our work presented here showed that MelB can be crystallized in the conditions as similar as that of other membrane transporter protein of known structure. To identify a rigid protein by modifying the protein structure is the critical factor for facilitating MelB crystallization. It is necessary to perform extensive crystallization screens to obtain crystals. MelB-MelB interaction in the DDM containing solution will be affect by protein preparation, which may lead to reduce in reproducibility of crystallization experiment. Using a detergent mixture is essential for improve protein contact in the crystals, then improve crystallizability. R149C MelB crystal can be obtained in DDM, but these crystals were only diffracted to about 8Å resolution limit. MelB wide type crystal also can be obtained from the condition as that of R149C mutant, but the resolution is weaker than that of mutant. Although MelB and other transporters of known structure share common feature of the crystallization, the emphasis was as much on the protein itself, as it was on detergent type or efficient screening and refinement of the crystallization conditions.
Selective Modulation of Heart and Respiration by Optical Control of Vagus Nerve Axons Innervating the Heart
Authors: Fontaine Arjun K. , Futia Gregory L. , Rajendran Pradeep S. , Littich Samuel , Mizoguchi Naoko , Shivkumar Kalyanam , Ardell Jeffrey L. , Restrepo Diego , Caldwell John H. , Gibson Emily A. , Weir Richard F.
Published: June 2020

Targeting specifics subsets of peripheral pathways of the autonomic nervous system will enable new avenues to study organ control and develop new disease therapies. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has shown many therapeutic benefits but current approaches involve imprecise electrical stimulation that gives rise to adverse effects, and the functionally relevant pathways are poorly understood. One method to overcome these limitations is the use of optogenetic techniques, which facilitate highly specific neural communication with light-sensitive actuators (opsins). Opsins can be targeted to cell populations of interest based on the location of viral delivery and genetic control of expression. Here, we tested whether holographic photostimulation of subsets of axons of the cervical vagus nerve that innervate the heart can be used to modulate cardiac function. Viral injection of retrograde adeno-associated virus (rAAV2-retro) in the heart resulted in robust, primarily afferent, opsin reporter expression in the vagus nerve, nodose ganglion, and brainstem. Selective holographic photostimulation of axons resulted in changes in heart rate, surface cardiac electrogram, and respiratory responses that were different from responses elicited by whole nerve photostimulation.