bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabry disease screening in high-risk populations in Japan: A nationwide study
Authors: Yoshida Shinichiro , Kido Jun , Sawada Takaaki , Momosaki Ken , Sugawara Keishin , Matsumoto Shirou , Endo Fumio , Nakamura Kimitoshi
Published: May 2020

Background: Fabry disease (FD) is a X-linked inherited disorder caused by mutations in the GLA gene, which results in deficiency of α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A). This leads to the progressive accumulation of metabolites, which can cause malfunctions in systemic organs. A recent screening study in newborns showed that the incidence of FD was more frequent than previously estimated and that there are still many undiagnosed or misdiagnosed patients with FD. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify patients with FD by performing high-risk screening in 18,135 individuals, enrolled from October 2006 to March 2019, with renal, cardiac, or neurological manifestations from all of the prefectures in Japan. A total of 601 hospitals participated in this study.Results: Low α-Gal A activity was detected in 846 individuals, with 224 of them diagnosed with FD by GLA sequencing. Cases with a family history of FD (n = 64) were also subjected to sequencing, without α-Gal A assay, as per individual request, and 12 of them were diagnosed with a variant of FD. A total of 236 patients with FD (97 males and 139 females) were detected from the 18,199 participants. A total of 101 GLA variants, including 26 novel variants, were detected in the 236 patients with FD from 143 families, with 39 amenable variants (39%) and 79 of the 236 patients (33%) suitable for migalastat treatment.Conclusions: From the 18,199 participants, 101 GLA variants, including 26 novel variants, were identified in the 236 patients with FD from 143 families. Migalastat was identified as a suitable treatment option in 33% of the patients with FD and 39% of the GLA variants were detected as amenable. Therefore, the simple screening protocol using dried blood spots that was performed in this study could be useful for early diagnosis and selection of appropriate treatments for FD in high-risk and underdiagnosed patients with various renal, cardiac, or neurological manifestations.
The human arthritic hip joint is a source of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) with extensive multipotent differentiation potential
Authors: Wagenbrenner Mike , Heinz Tizian , Horas Konstantin , Jakuscheit Axel , Arnholdt Joerg , Herrmann Marietta , Rudert Maximilian , Holzapfel Boris , Steinert Andre , Weißenberger Manuel
Published: May 2020

Background: While multiple in vitro studies examined mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow or hyaline cartilage, there is little to no data about the presence of MSCs in the joint capsule or the ligamentum capitis femoris (LCF) of the hip joint. Therefore, this in vitro study examined the presence and differentiation potential of MSCs isolated from the bone marrow, arthritic hyaline cartilage, the LCF and full-thickness samples of the anterior joint capsule of the hip joint. Methods: MSCs were isolated and multiplied in adherent monolayer cell cultures. Osteogenesis and adipogenesis were induced in monolayer cell cultures for 21 days using a differentiation medium containing specific growth factors, while chondrogenesis in the presence of TGF-ß1 was performed using pellet-culture for 27 days. Control cultures were maintained for comparison over the same duration of time. The differentiation process was analyzed using histological and immunohistochemical stainings as well as semiquantitative RT-PCR for measuring the mean expression levels of tissue-specific genes. Results: This in vitro research showed that the isolated cells from all four donor tissues grew plastic-adherent and showed similar adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation capacity as proven by the histological detection of lipid droplets or deposits of extracellular calcium and collagen type I. After 27 days of chondrogenesis proteoglycans accumulated in the differentiated MSC-pellets from all donor tissues. Immunohistochemical staining revealed vast amounts of collagen type II in all differentiated MSC-pellets, except for those from the LCF. Interestingly all differentiated MSCs still showed a clear increase in mean expression of adipogenic, osteogenic and chondrogenic marker genes. In addition, the examination of an exemplary selected donor sample revealed that cells from all four donor tissues were clearly positive for the surface markers CD44, CD73, CD90 and CD105 by flow cytometric analysis. Conclusions: This study proved the presence of MSC-like cells in all four examined donor tissues of the hip joint. No significant differences were observed during osteogenic or adipogenic differentiation depending on the source of MSCs used. Further research is necessary to fully determine the tripotent differentiation potential of cells isolated from the LCF and capsule tissue of the hip joint.
Evaluation of the association between presenteeism and perceived availability of social support among hospital doctors in Zhejiang, China
Authors: Xi Xiaoyu , Lu Qianni , Lu Mengqing , Xu Ailin , Hu Hao , Ung Carolina Oi Lam
Published: May 2020

Objective:
This study investigated the association between presenteeism and the perceived availability of social support among hospital doctors in China.

Method:
A questionnaire was administered by doctors randomly selected from 13 hospital in Hangzhou China using stratified sampling. Logit model was used for data analysis.

Results:
The overall response rate was 88.16%. Among hospital doctors, for each unit increase of the perceived availability of social support, the prevalence of presenteeism was decreased by 8.3% (OR=0.91, P=0.000). In particular, if the doctors perceived availability of appraisal support, belonging support and tangible support as sufficient, the act of presenteeism was reduced by 20.2% (OR=0.806, P=0.000) 20.4% (OR=0.803, P=0.000) and 21.0% (OR=0.799, P=0.000) respectively with statistical differences.

Conclusion:
In China, appraisal support, belonging support and tangible support, compared to other social support, had a stronger negative correlation with presenteeism among hospital doctors. The benefits of social support in alleviating doctors’ presenteeism warrant further investigation.
Fascin-1 expression in colorectal cancer identifies patients at high risk for early disease recurrence and associated mortality.
Authors: Tampakis Athanasios , Tampaki Ekaterini Christina , Nonni Afrodite , Kostakis Ioannis D. , Posabella Alberto , Kontzoglou Konstantinos , von Flüe Markus , Felekouras Evangelos , Kouraklis Gregory , Nikiteas Nikolaos
Published: May 2020

Background; Fascin is the main actin cross-linker protein that regulates adhesion dynamics and stabilizes cell protrusion, such as filopodia. In human cancer, fascin expression correlates with aggressive clinical features. This study aimed to determine the expression patterns of fascin-1 and assess its prognostic significance in colorectal cancer. Methods; One hundred eleven specimens of patients with primary resectable colorectal cancer were examined via immunohistochemistry for the expression of fascin-1, and the results were correlated with clinicopathological characteristics and survival data. Results; Fascin-1 staining displayed strong intensity in the cytoplasm of the colorectal cancer cells and endothelial cells of tumor blood vessels. Moderate and high fascin-1 expression was associated with progressive anatomic disease extent (p < 0.001), higher T classification (p = 0.007), the presence of lymph node (p < 0.001) and distant metastasis (p = 0.002), high grade tumors (p = 0.002) and vascular invasion (p < 0.001). Patients displaying moderate and high fascin-1 expression demonstrated a significantly worse 5-year overall survival [HR; 3.906, (95%CI) = 1.250-12.195] and significantly worse 3-year progression-free survival [HR; 3.448, (95%CI) = 1.401–8.475] independent of other clinicopathological characteristics. Besides, high fascin-1 expression in early-stage cancer only was associated with a dismal prognosis. Conclusions; High fascin-1 expression in colorectal cancer is an independent negative prognostic factor for survival, increasing the risk for disease recurrence or death almost by sevenfold. Fascin-1 expression could be potentially utilized to identify high-risk patients prone to metastasis already in early-stage disease.
Optimal Regimens and Cutoff Evaluation of Ceftiofur Against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae in Swine
Authors: Sun Da , Mi Kun , Hao Haihong , Xie Shuyu , Chen Dongmei , Huang Lingli
Published: May 2020

BackgroundActinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, formerly known as Haemophilus pleuropneumoniae, can cause pleuropneumoniae in pigs of different ages, leading to significant mortality. Ceftiofur was the first cephalosporin antibiotic used in animals that was effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. This study aimed to determine the breakpoint of ceftiofur against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae based on the investigation of the epidemiologic cutoff value (ECV), and pharmacodynamic-pharmacokinetic breakpoint.ResultsThe epidemiologic cutoff value was 0.125 µg/mL. The results of the pharmacodynamic study showed that the MICs of BW39 were 0.5 µg/mL and 1 µg/mL under in vitro and ex-vivo conditions, respectively, and the minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) under in vitro and ex vivo conditions were both 1 µg/mL. The time-killing profiles of ceftiofur against BW39 were time-dependent. According to the inhibitory sigmoid Emax model, the AUC24 h/MIC values for the bacteriostatic, bactericidal, and elimination effects in serum were 45.73, 63.83, and 69.04 h for healthy pigs, respectively. Based on the Monte Carlo simulation, the COPD was calculated as 2 µg/mL, and the optimized dosage regimen of ceftiofur against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae to achieve bacteriostatic, bactericidal, and elimination effects over 24 h was 2.13, 2.97, and 3.42 mg/kg for the 50% target attainment rate (TAR) and 2.47, 3.21, and 3.70 mg/kg for the 90% TAR, respectively.ConclusionsIn this study, the epidemiologic cutoff value was 0.125 µg/mL, as calculated by ECOFFinder software. According to the PK/PD evaluation in vitro and ex vivo, the value of the pharmacodynamics cutoff was 2 µg/mL, as obtained by Monte Carlo simulation. The COPD suggested that the breakpoint could be better than the COWT value because COPD derived from PL/PD data was obtained in vitro and ex vivo, which was more significant. According to the PK/PD parameters, the single bactericidal dose was 3.21 mg/kg for the 90% target, which would be more available to cure Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and avoid the emergence of resistance for clinical ceftiofur use.
COVID-19 Pandemic Initial Case-Fatality Risk
Authors: Abugroun Ashraf , Ahmed Fatima , Abdel-Rahman Manar E , Dousa Khalid M , Osman Mohammed , Patel Pragnesh , Ahmed Mohammed E
Published: May 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to expand at alarming rates. We aimed to identify the effect of various health, economic and demographic indicators on the spread case fatality of COVID-19 during the initial pandemic phase.
Methods

Pearson's chi-squared (χ2) test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were used compare categorical and continuous variables respectively.
Results

A total of 182 countries were included. The globally confirmed COVID-19 cases on March 21, 2020 were 266,073; with 11,183deaths. Countries with high COVID-19 case volumes had higher health expenditure, higher prevalence of smoking and alcohol use, more access to basic sanitation services and higher volume of tourists. Countries with high COVID-19 fatality had significantly lower number of nurses/midwives per 1000 people 2.6 vs 6.4, p = 0.028, higher prevalence of undernourishment 4.5 vs 2.5, p = 0.019, lower access to basic sanitation services 94.2 vs 98.7, p = 0.034 and higher mortality rates due to unsafe water, limited sanitation and lack of hygiene 0.6% vs 0.2%, p = 0.004 and higher number of total tourists’ departures 9.5 vs 5.9 million, p = 0.042.
Conclusion

Countries with primitive health structure and low income are at high risk for increased mortality. Additional measures to increase nurse staffing and address undernourishment and availability of easy access to basic sanitation services and good hygiene are crucial for pandemic control during initial phase.
Differentiation and management of hepatobiliary mucinous cystic neoplasms: a single centre experience for 8 years
Authors: Zheng Junhao , Cai Jingwei , Kirih Mubarak Ali , Xu Junjie , Tao Liye , Liang Yuelong , Feng Xu , Fang Jing , Liang Xiao
Published: May 2020

Background
Hepatobiliary mucinous cystic neoplasms (H-MCNs) are quite rare cystic neoplasms in the liver. The management and prognosis between the hepatic simple cyst (HSC) and H-MCNs are adverse, and the differential diagnosis of H-MCNs remains big challenging. This study aimed to present our experience in the management of H-MCNs and provide a preoperative H-MCNs risk prediction nomogram to differentiating H-MCNs from HSC.
Methods
29 patients diagnosed with H-MCNs and 75 patients diagnosed with HSC between June 2011 and June 2019 at Zhejiang University, School of medicine, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, were reviewed in this study. Demographic and clinicopathological variables were analyzed.
Results
US, CT, and MRI could accurately diagnose only 3.4%, 46.1%, and 57.1% of H-MCNs, respectively. After univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis, the variables significantly associated with H-MCNs were enhancement after contrast (p = 0.009), tumour located in the left lobe (p = 0.02) and biliary ductal dilation (p = 0.027). An H-MCN risk predictive nomogram constructed by these factors and serum CA199 level showed excellent discrimination (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.940) and agreement calibration between predicted probability and actual probability.
Conclusion
Among patients with the H-MCNs, the location of the tumour, enhancement in CT scan, and biliary ductal dilation are significantly independent risk factors. The reasonable treatment of H-MCNs is radical resection. Using our nomogram could facilitate screening and identification of patients with liver cystic lesions.
The positive impacts and unintended consequences of the nationwide pricing reform for drugs and medical services in the urban public hospitals in China
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxi , Lai Hongyu , Zhang Lidan , He Jiangjiang , Fu Bo , Jin Chunlin
Published: May 2020

Since 2015, China has been rolling out the pricing reform for drugs and medical services (PRDMS) in the urban public hospitals in order to reduce the drug expenditure and to relieve the financial burden of patients. This study aims at evaluating the effectiveness of the reform implementation and investigating its positive impacts and unintended consequences to provide evidence base for further policy making. The Difference-in-difference (DID) approach was employed to analyze the reform impact on the 31 provincial administrative areas in China based on the data abstracted from China Statistics Yearbooks and China Health Statistics Yearbooks from 2012 to 2018. The reform resulted in the decrease of 7.59% in drug cost per outpatient visit, the decrease of 5.73% in drug cost per inpatient admission, the decrease of 3.63% in total cost per outpatient visit and an increase of 9.10% in the surgery cost per inpatient admission in the intervention group. However, no significant change in examination cost was found, and the reduction in the medical cost per inpatient admission was yet to be demonstrated, nor was the total outpatient/ inpatient expenses. The nationwide pricing reform for drugs and medical services in the urban public hospitals (PRDMS-U) in China is demonstrated to be effective in cutting down the drug expenditure. However, the revealed unintended consequences indicate that there are still significant challenges for the reform to encounter in the way ahead to reach the ultimate goal in curbing the medical expenditure. The underlying issue with the incentives of providers in service delivery remains to be unsolved and the pricing instrument alone should not be enough to change the behavior of providers. Our conclusion holds lessons for other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) who are also conducting reforms to public hospitals.Authors Xiaoxi Zhang and Hongyu Lai contributed equally to this work.
Experimental Pulmonary Tuberculosis Without Brain Infection in Male BALB/c Mice Induces Neuroinflammation and Behavioural Abnormalities
Authors: Espinosa Jacqueline Viridiana Lara , Marquina-Castillo Brenda , Santana-Martínez Ricardo A. , Zetter Mario A. , Maldonado Perla D. , Becerril-Villanueva Enrique , Pérez-Sánchez Gilberto , Pavón Lenin , Mata-Espinosa Dulce , Barrios-Payán Jorge , López-Torres Manuel Othoniel , Pando Rogelio Hernández
Published: May 2020

Background During the development of chronic peripheral inflammation, there is a complex activity of specific brain areas that produce neuronal activation and changes in the synthesis, production and activity of neurotransmitters and cytokines. These changes produced afferent responses that contribute to the regulation of inflammatory and immune responses but may also affect the neuropsicoaffective functions, such as learning ability, memory and mood. Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that induces chronic inflammation, so it could produce these neural and immune changes that may occur in the absence of brain infection. In the present study, we determined the immune response in the Central Nervous System (CNS), in a murine model of pulmonary TB and its relationship with the neurotransmitters levels and behavioural abnormalities without brain infection. Methods Using a murine model of pulmonary TB, we studied the synthesis of cytokines by RT-PCR and IHC, the concentrations of the neurotransmitters by HPLC along with neuronal changes and the histopathology alterations within specific brain areas. Different behavioural tests were performed, which include the study of sickness behaviour, anxiety-like behaviour, neurological severity score, short and long-term memory and depression-like behaviour. We evaluated the activation of JNK and p38 and BNDF levels by Western blot. Data were analysed by Two-Way ANOVA, followed by Sidak tests. Results Pulmonary infected male animals showed a brain increased expression of the pro-inflammatory (TNFa, IFNg, IL-12) and anti-inflammatory (IL10, IL4 and TGFb) cytokines, as well as the enzymes indolamine 2-3 dioxygenase (IDO) and induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the hypothalamus, hippocampus and cerebellum; in coexistence with substantial cha nges in the production of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. Neurodegenerative changes occurred in the early stage of the disease, and it led to neuronal death during advanced TB, with activation of p38, JNK and decrease of the BDNF levels. All these changes occurred with sickness behaviour, depressive-like and anxiety-like behaviour, neurological damage and impairment of both short and long-term memory. Conclusions Pulmonary TB produced a neuroinflammatory state and neuronal damage, which evoked several behaviour abnormalities that resembled depression/anxiety states and aroused the interest to control neuroinflammation in TB patients with neuropsychiatric abnormalities.
Kneeling assessment after Anterior Cruciate ligament reconstruction using Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone autograft versus hamstring autograft
Authors: Hulaibi Fahad Al , Eid Zainab Al , Altaher Saad , Albarrak Abdulaziz , Alzaid Zaid
Published: May 2020

Background

ACL reconstruction surgeries is a common surgery that aim to provide stability and return functionality post ACL injury. Commonly, bone patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) and hamstring tendon autografts are used for the reconstruction. The choice of optimal autograft remains debatable to achieve satisfactory outcomes for various activities after reconstruction, including kneeling as widely needed, especially in prayers among Muslims. Kneeling with considerable ranges of motion and the minimum level of pain is still under rigorous investigations to choose proper autograft.
Purpose

Hereby, we compare kneeling outcomes post-operatively using bone-patellar tendon-bone autografts with hamstring autografts for ACL reconstruction.
Methods

A retrospective cohort study; Level of evidence (III) has enrolled. Adult patients underwent primary ACL reconstruction using either BPTB or HS autografts after they consented at a single institution with a minimum of 1-year as follow-up post-operatively were reviewed for assessment of the surgery’s outcomes in regards of kneeling pain and subjective assessment measures using International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation system.
Results

A total of Thirty-two males were met our inclusion criteria. Analysis of data provided that 12 patients were in the BTB group and 20 patients in the HS group. In all patients of our study, ACL rupture was sustained during participation in athletic activity regardless the type of sport with 60.8% patients were affected of left knee. After follow-up of 1-year, clinical evaluation of anterior drawer test postoperatively resulted with Two patients in HS group were positive. There was no statistically significant difference between scores of two groups when comparing patient-reported outcome measures, with mean IKDC scores of 68.5 and 62.55 in the BTB and HS groups, respectively. Interestingly, insignificant statistical difference observed in both groups in regard of kneeling pain in the BTB group when compared with the HS group.
Conclusion

The findings of our study have shown that Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using either hamstring autograft or bone patellar tendon autograft ends with equally reasonable satisfactory outcomes, with an insignificant difference in kneeling pain between both groups.
Development of Dual Fluorescent Microsphere Immunological Assay for Detection of Pseudorabies Virus gE and gB IgG Antibodies
Authors: ji chihai , Wang Jingyu , Zeng Yuchen , Pan Haoming , Wei Yingfang , Liang Guan , Ma Jun , Gong Lang , Zhang Wei , Zhang Guihong , Wang Heng
Published: May 2020

Background Pseudorabies, also known as Aujezsky’s disease, is an acute viral infection caused by pseudorabies virus (PRV). Swine are one of the natural hosts of pseudorabies, therefore, the disease brings huge economic losses to the swine industry. Establishment of a differential diagnosis technique that can distinguish between wild-type infected and vaccinated pigs, and monitor vaccine-induced IgG is crucial for eventual eradication of pseudorabies.Results The aim of this study was to develop a rapid dual detection method for PRV gE and gB protein IgG antibodies with high specificity and sensitivity. PRV gE codons at amino acid residues (aa) 52–238 and gB codons at aa 539–741 were expressed to obtain recombinant PRV gE and gB proteins by pMAL-c5x vector. After purification with Qiagen Ni–NTA agarose affinity, the two proteins were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting assay. Two single fluorescent-microsphere immunoassays (FMIA) were established by coupling two recombinant proteins (gE and gB) with two magnetic microbeads and an effective dual FMIA was developed by integrating the two single assays. Optimal serum dilution for each assay, correlation with other common swine virus-positive sera and comparison with ELISA for two PRV antigens were tested for validation. Compared with ELISA, the specificity and sensitivity were 99.26% and 92.3% for gE IgG antibody detection and 95.74% and 96.3% for gB IgG antibody detection by dual-FMIA.Conclusion We provide a new method for monitoring PRV protective antibody in vaccinated pigs and differentiating wild-type-PRV-infected from vaccinated pigs
MiR-199a-3p/5p participate in TGF-β and EGF induced EMT in pterygium by targeting DUSP5/MAP3K11
Authors: He Siying , Huang Yifang , Dong Shiqi , Qiao Chen , Yang Guohua , Zhang Shuai , Wang Chen , Xu Yuting , Zheng Fang , Yan Ming
Published: May 2020

Background: Recently, it has been reported that miRNA is correlated with pterygium, however its exact mechanism in pterygium is unrevealed and require further investigation. Methods: The differential expression of miRNA in pterygium was profiled using microarray and validated with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Human conjunctival epithelial cells (HCEs) were cultured and treated with TGF-b and EGF. Western blot and immunohistochemistry were carried out to detect epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. Wound healing and transwell assay were used to determine cell migration ability, while apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. The target genes of miR-199a were confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter assay. Results: TGF-b and EGF induced EMT in HCEs to mimic the pathogenesis of pterygium. MiR-199a-3p and miR-199a-5p induced EMT in HCEs, whose respectively downstream targets DUSP5 and MAP3K11 hindered EMT in EMT-HCEs in turn. TGF-b and EGF induced EMT promotion and target genes suppression, could be promoted by miR-199a-3p and miR-199a-5p, while impeded by miR-199a-3p and miR-199a-5p inhibitors. The expression levels of miR-199a and target genes were further validated in pterygium tissues, which were consistent the results in cell model. Bioinformatics analysis indicated the miR-199a-3p/5p-DUSP5/MAP3K11 was belong to MAPK signalling pathway in pterygium. Conclusions: TGF-b and EGF probably induced EMT of HCEs through miR-199a-3p/5p-DUSP5/MAP3K11 axis, which explained the pathogenesis of EMT in pterygium and might provide new targets for pterygium prevention and therapy.
Global health activists’ lessons on building social movements for Health for All
Authors: Musolino Connie Marguerite , Baum Fran , Freeman Toby , Labonté Ronald , Bodini Chiara , Sanders David
Published: May 2020

Background
The People’s Health Movement (PHM) formed in 2000 and drew inspiration from the Alma Ata Declaration on Primary Health Care’s ‘Health for All’ (1978). Since then PHM has been an active part of a global counter-hegemonic social movement. From locations across the world including eleven countries, health activists shared their insights on social movement building, drawing on the successes and failures over many decades of striving to improve health, justice and equity.
Methods
Qualitative research methods were employed in this study to capture complex and historical narratives of individual activists, including semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis of transcripts. The research design and analysis were informed by social movement theory and literature on health activism as a pathway for social change. In this paper we examine the semi-structured interviews of 15 health activists who are part of the PHM, to derive lessons for strengthening movements for Health for All.
Results
This paper locates the activists’ narratives within a socio-political analysis of the global trends of late modern individualism and capitalist neoliberalism to understand the challenges faced by civil society groups mobilising collective action and building social movements for Health for All. This study found that within the constraints of the neoliberal socio-political and economic conditions which have caused the rise in social and health inequities, this group of long-term health activists have been nurturing alternative approaches to structuring society and building collective agency to improve health.
Conclusion
This paper draws on the practical long-term experiences of the PHM activists to understand better the processes and motivations that lead to and sustain health activism, and the dilemmas, strategies, impacts and achievements of such activism.
Effects of probiotic BaSC06 on intestinal digestion and absorption function, antioxidant capacity and macrophage polarization and microbiota composition in fattening pigs
Authors: Cao Xuefang , Tang Li , Zeng Zihan , Wang Baikui , Zhou Yuanhao , Wang Qi , Zou Peng , Li Weifen
Published: May 2020

Background: The previous study in our team found that supplementation of probiotic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 (BaSC06) as an alternative to antibiotics (Kitasamycin) can effectively reduce the diarrhea rate and promote the growth performance of weaned piglets. We speculate that BaSC06 may become a better substitute for antibiotics for fattening pigs. Hence, the objective of the present study is to evaluate the effects of BaSC06 substitute antibiotics on growth performance, digestive functions, antioxidant capacity, macrophage polarization and intestinal microbiota of fattening pigs. Methods: A total of 117 fattening pigs with similar weight and genetic basis were selected and divided into three groups: Anti group, fed with basal diet supplemented with 40 g/t Kitasamycin; Anti + Ba group, fed with 1 × 108 CFU/kg BaSC06 and 20 g/t Kitasamycin; Ba group, fed with 1 × 108 CFU/kg BaSC06 replaced Kitasamycin. Each treatment had three replications of 13 pigs per pen. Results: It indicated that BaSC06 replacement significantly improved ADFI and ADG in fattening pigs. It also improved intestinal digestion and absorption function with the increased activities of intestinal digestive enzymes and higher expression of glucose transporters SGLT1 and small peptide transporters PEPT1, maintained intestinal integrity significantly. Besides, supplementation with BaSC06 enhanced intestinal and body antioxidant capacity by activating Nrf2/ Keap1 antioxidant signaling pathway. In addition, BaSC06 as a substitute could alleviate intestinal inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokine and simultaneously increase the expression of M1 and M2 macrophage marker proteins in the intestinal mucosa. The transcription factor STAT3 regulated M2 polarization, which maintained immune homeostasis and reduced inflammation. What’s more, BaSC06 could improve the composition of the microbiota as well by increasing the proportion of Firmicutes, and reducing the proportion of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria. Conclusions: Taken together, our findings indicated that diet supplementation with BaSC06 instead of antibiotics increased the growth performance of piglets by improving the digestion and absorption of nutrients, intestinal microbiota composition and mucosal structure, antioxidative capacity and immune functions (including increasing M1and M2 polarization of macrophage).
Assessment of knowledge and practice of nurses working in gynecology emergency room towards pregnancy induced hypertension in selected government public hospitals found in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Tadele Wolelaw , Debebe Finot , Tadele Achamyelesh , Tilahun Lehulu
Published: May 2020

Background: - Pregnancy induced hypertension is one of the most common causes of both maternal and neonatal morbidity. Objective: - To assess knowledge and practice of nurses working in gynecology emergency room towards Pregnancy Induced Hypertension and association of having training and work experience to their knowledge and practice in selected government public hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods: - Institution based descriptive cross sectional study was conducted. Hospitals were selected by simple random sampling using lottery method with sample size determination of all nurses found in Gynecology emergency Room. Result: - A total of 78 study participants were included in the study. The mean age of the respondents was 25.62 years. Out of the total study participants, 54(67.9%) of them found to have adequate knowledge towards pregnancy induced hypertension. However, among the total 78 charts reviewed, 39(50%) of the charts had showed good practice towards pregnancy induced hypertension. Only training was significantly associated with knowledge towards pregnancy induced hypertension at p<0.003 but none of the variables were significantly associated with practice towards pregnancy induced hypertension.Conclusion: - Based on the findings of this study, the level of knowledge and practice was found to be low.
Prognostic value of lncRNA SNHG20 as a biomarker in human cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Yongfeng , Rui Xinmiao , Chen Daobao , Xuan Haojun , Yang Hongjian , Meng Xuli
Published: May 2020

Background: Long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 20 (SNHG20) is a novel oncogene and dysregulated in a variety of human cancers. It has been revealed to be associated with the clinicopathological features and prognosis. However, the prognostic value of SNHG20 in various cancers remains unclear. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between SNHG20 expression and clinical outcomes in human cancers.Methods: Comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI and Wangfang databases, and eligible studies were obtained according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and odds ratios (ORs) were applied to assess the clinical value of SNHG20 expression for overall survival (OS) and clinicopathological features.Results: A total of 16 articles including 1190 cancer patients were included in the study. The pooled results demonstrated that evaluated SNHG20 expression was positively related to a poorer OS of cancers (HR=2.36, 95%CI: 1.85-2.87, P<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that SNHG20 overexpression was closely related to the low OS of patients with the digestive system cancer (HR=2.92, 95%CI: 1.96-3.88, P<0.001), sample size >80 (HR=2.42, 95%CI: 1.69-3.14, P<0.001), direct HR estimation method (HR=2.65, 95%CI: 1.78-3.52, P<0.001), and median ratio as cut-off value (HR=2.21, 95%CI: 1.60-2.83, P<0.001). In addition, the pooled data also showed that SNHG20 was positively linked to lymph node metastasis (LNM) (OR=1.65, 95%CI: 1.21-2.26, P=0.002), distant metastasis (DM) (OR=1.76, 95%CI: 1.10-2.83, P=0.02), and advanced TNM stage (OR=1.79, 95%CI: 1.34-2.39, P<0.001). Moreover, the results of the trim and fill analysis confirmed the reliability of our finding. Conclusions: Upregulation of SNHG20 was associated with advanced TNM stage, worse LNM and DM, and shorter OS, suggesting that SNHG20 may serve as a biomarker for prognosis and clinicopathological characteristics in human cancers.
Risk of depression and common comorbid mental disorders in persons with malaria: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Yanxu , Ciarletta Matt , Pan Yunqi , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Ssentongo Paddy , Ssentongo Anna E
Published: May 2020

Aim To estimate the pooled prevalence and incidence of depression and its common comorbid mental disorders in persons with a malarial infection and its neurological complications Method We will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published between January 1, 1960 and January 1, 2020, reporting the prevalence or incidence of common mental disorders and the risks in people with malaria. We will search the following databases: PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, OVID (HEALTH STAR), OVID (MEDLINE) and Joana Briggs Institute EBF Database. No age, geographical location, study-design or language limits will be applied. If multiple languages were used to describe and publish the same data, the English version was selected. This protocol was developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols guidelines. Three reviewers (MC, YP, YY) will independently screen citations, abstracts and will identify full-text articles for inclusion, extract data and appraise the quality and bias of included studies. Discrepancies will be resolved by consensus or consultation with a fourth researcher (AS). Risk of bias of included studies will be assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. The primary outcomes will be the overall prevalence or incidence of depression and common comorbid mental disorders (CCMDs) in persons with malaria. We will use the random-effects model with a logit transformation of proportions for the pooling of studies. We will assess the between-study heterogeneity using I2 statistics, and Cochrane’s Q statistic (significance level < 0.05). We will perform subgroup meta-analyses to investigate geographical differences in mental disorders and risks of different mental disorders. We will conduct a meta-regression analysis, using study level median age, race and gender proportions, the proportion of study population with malaria, and percentage of the study population with a diagnosis of common mental disorders. We will report absolute differences in the overall probability of common mental disorders. The Egger’s test and funnel plots will be used to assess publication bias.
Evidence of vector borne transmission of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica ser. Gallinarum and fowl typhoid mediated by the poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer, 1778)
Authors: Cocciolo Giulio , Circella Elena , Pugliese Nicola , Lupini Caterina , mescolini Giulia , Catelli Elena , Borchert-Stuhlträger Monika , Zoller Harmut , Thomas Emmanuel , Camarda Antonio
Published: May 2020

Background
The poultry red mite Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer 1778) is a major ectoparasite of poultry. Infestations are found in most laying hen farms in Europe, and breeder flocks have also been reported to be affected. Mite infestation has detrimental effects on animal welfare, are a cause of significant economic losses, and D. gallinae is often considered as a pathogen vector. Despite suspicion of a close relationship between the poultry red mite and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica ser. Gallinarum (S. Gallinarum), the causative agent of fowl typhoid (FT), there has been no definitive proof of mite-mediated transmission. Therefore, an investigation was conducted to determine if D. gallinae-mediated transmission of S. Gallinarum could be demonstrated among four different hen groups.
Methods
Two groups of 8 SPF hens (A and B) were experimentally infected with S. Gallinarum in two isolators. After seven days, when birds showed signs of FT, about 25,000 mites were introduced. After 3 days, mites were harvested and used to infest other two SPF hen groups of 8 (C and D), in two separate isolators. Health status of hens was constantly monitored; detection and quantification of S. Gallinarum were performed by PCR and qPCR from mites and organs of dead hens. The maximum likelihood estimation of the infection rate and mite vectorial capacity were calculated.
Results
Clinical disease was observed in groups infected with S. Gallinarum (A and B) and in hens of groups C and D infested with mites harvested from the isolators containing groups A and B. In all 4 groups, S. Gallinarum was detected from liver, spleen, ovary and cecum of hens, thus confirming the diagnosis of FT. Mite analysis demonstrated the presence of the pathogen, with an estimated infection rate ranging between 13.72 and 55.21 infected per thousand mites. Vectorial capacity was estimated to be 73.79.
Conclusion
Mites harvested from birds infected with S. Gallinarum were shown to carry the mite, and then to transfer S. Gallinarum to isolated groups of pathogen-free birds that subsequently showed signs of FT. Mite vectorial capacity was high, demonstrating that D. gallinae should be considered an effective vector of FT.
Morphological characteristics of the Lisfranc ligament
Authors: Yukako Suzuki , Edama Mutsuaki , Fmiya Kaneko , Masahiro Ikezu , Kanta Matuszawa , Ryo Hirabayashi , Ikuo Kagayama
Published: May 2020

Background
This study aimed to clarify the morphological characteristics of the Lisfranc ligament and the plantar ligament.
Methods
Forty legs from 20 cadavers were examined. Classification proceeded according to the number of fiber bundles in the Lisfranc ligament and the plantar ligament. Morphological features measured were fiber bundle length, width, thickness, and angle.
Results
In Type I-a, the Lisfranc and plantar ligaments were a single fiber bundle; in Type I-b, the Lisfranc ligament was a single fiber bundle, and the plantar ligament was two fiber bundles; in Type II-a, the Lisfranc ligament was a two fiber bundle, and the plantar ligament was a single fiber bundle; in Type II-b, the Lisfranc ligament and the plantar ligament were two fiber bundles; in Type III-a, the Lisfranc ligament was three fiber bundles, and the plantar ligament was a single fiber bundle; in Type III-b, the Lisfranc ligament was three fiber bundles, and the plantar ligament was two fiber bundles; in Type IV, the Lisfranc ligament and the plantar ligament could not be separated. Type I-a was seen in 37.5%, Type I-b in 10%, Type II-a in 30%, Type II-b in 7.5%, Type III-a in 7.5%, Type III-b in 2.5%, and Type IV in 5%. The Lisfranc ligament was significantly larger than the plantar ligament in total fiber bundle width, total fiber bundle thickness, and total fiber bundle angle.
Conclusion
The Lisfranc ligament had three fiber bundles, and the plantar ligament had two fiber bundles; classifications were four types and two subgroups.
Effectiveness and safety of extracorporeal shock wave treatment for low back pain:a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs
Authors: Ma Jinhui , Yan Yan , Wang Bailiang , Sun Wei , Yue Debo , Wang Weiguo
Published: May 2020

Background

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been widely used in musculoskeletal disorders. This meta-analysis was designed to assess the effectiveness and safety of ESWT for patients with low back pain (LBP).

Methods

Multiple electronic databases including Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane’s library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Data were searched until December, 2019 to identify studies assessing the effectiveness and safety of EPSW for LBP. The prime outcome is pain intensity measured by Visual Analog Scale (VAS) or numeric rating scale (NRS). Other outcomes included functional status, quality of life, psychological outcomes measured by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), as well as the adverse events. Mean differences were calculated for continuous outcomes, while odd ratios were calculated for binary outcomes. Revman 5.3 software was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were finally included in this meta-analysis. The pooled mean difference in post-treatment pain scores was −2.37 (P <0.0001), indicating that post-treatment pain scores was significantly higher by 2.37 in control group than in ESWT group. At a mean follow-up time of 4-6 weeks, the pooled mean difference in ODI scores was −14.10 (P <0.00001), indicating that the pooled mean difference of post-treatment ODI scores was 14.10 higher in control group than in ESWT group.

Conclusions

The use of focused ESWT is effective in alleviating pain and improving the general fuctional state for patients with LBP. However, more evidence was needed to verify its safety.
Comparison of dual antiplatelet therapies after coronary endarterectomy combined with coronary artery bypass grafting: a cohort study.
Authors: Yan Hua , Tiemuerniyazi Xieraili , Song Yangwu , Xu Fei , Feng Wei
Published: May 2020

BackgroundCoronary endarterectomy (CE) combined with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) can be the only option for complete revascularization in some patients with diffuse coronary artery disease. Unfortunately, CE can cause the lack of endothelium, resulting in increased risk of thrombotic events. Therefore, antithrombotic therapy is very important after surgery. However, there’s no consistent protocol exists till now. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of dual antiplatelet therapies (DAPT) including aspirin plus clopidogrel (AC) or ticagrelor (AT) after CE + CABG.MethodA total of 137 continuous patients (mean age 60.0 ± 9.0 years) underwent CE + CABG from January 2016 to July 2018 in our center, and patients who received dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after surgery (n = 121) were included in this study. All of the patients received aspirin 100 mg daily therapy after surgery, and 67 of the patients received extra clopidogrel 75 mg (AC) daily therapy, whereas 54 received extra ticagrelor 90 mg (AT) twice daily. All patients continued aspirin monotherapy after 1 year. Occurrence of ischemic events and bleeding events between two groups were compared. Kaplan-Meier survival was used to compare freedom from major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) between two groups, and log-rank test was used to confirm statistical difference.ResultsFollow-up was completed by 99.2%, and median follow-up time was 30.0(22.5, 35.2) months. No operative death was observed, while perioperative myocardial infarction was observed in 2(1.7%) patients (AC 1.5% vs. AT 1.9%, p = ns). One patient in AC group suffered from cardiac tamponade. During the follow-up period, no death was observed. Ischemic events including nonfatal myocardial infarction, repeat revascularization and ischemic stroke were observed in 6(5.0%) patients (AC 4.5% vs. AT 5.6%, p = ns). Overt bleeding had occurred in 3(2.5%) patients (AC 3.0% vs. AT 1.9%, p = ns). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that MACCE-free survival of the two groups at 3 years was 97.0% in the AC group versus 94.1% in the AT group (p = ns).ConclusionIn patients undergoing CE + CABG, DAPT therapy can be effective and safe with comparable results between AC and AT therapy in terms of ischemic and bleeding events. Further studies are needed.
Peptidome Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid in Neonates with Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Damage
Authors: Hou Xuewen , Yuan Zijun , Wang Xuan , Cheng Rui , Zhou Xiaoguang , Qiu Jie
Published: May 2020

Hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBD) causes neonatal death and serious neurological disability; however, there are currently no promising therapies for it excepting cooling. Therefore, in this study, we used peptidome analysis to identify differentially expressed peptides in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of neonates with HIBD or controls, which may give a foundation for finding new promising drugs of neonatal HIBD. CSF samples were collected from neonates with HIBD (n = 4) or controls (n = 4). ITRAQ LC-MS/MS was used to identify differentially expressed peptides between two groups. Effects of the peptide from heat shock protein 90-alpha (HSP90α/HSP90AA1) on cell viability and pyroptosis under oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) were analyzed using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) Assay. Expressions of NLRP3, ASC and Caspase-1 were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting. Compared with the control group, one peptide significantly up-regulated and thirty-four peptides significantly down-regulated in the CSF of neonates with HIBD. A fragment of HSP90α/HSP90AA1 is the 2671.5 Da peptide (HSQFIGYPITLFVEKER), one of the down-regulated peptides in neonatal HIBD. This peptide, we named it HIBDAP, inhibited pyroptosis of PC12 cells under OGD by suppressing expressions of NLRP3, ASC and Caspase-1. The results of our study identified the characterization and expression profiles of peptides in CSF of neonatal HIBD. Several meaningful peptides such as HIBDAP may play significant roles in neonatal HIBD and may provide new therapeutic targets for neonatal HIBD.