bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-methodological study of Early Modern Age archaeological glazed ceramics from Prague
Authors: Klouzkova Alexandra , Kohoutkova Martina , Kolarova Maria , Blazkova Gabriela , Sefcu Radka , Dvorakova Pavla , Kmonickova Martina Bajeux
Published: March 2020

A set of scientific methods (X-ray analyses, optical and electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and thermal analyses) was used for research of ceramic bodies and glazes of forty vessels from Renaissance Prague. The set of early modern age archaeological glazed ceramics contained tableware, kitchenware and technical ceramics. The main aim was to characterize ceramic materials and glazes over two centuries. Attention was also paid to identification of defects and corrosion products of the glazes. The research was conducted with an emphasis on the context of the original use of ceramic artefacts and the environment of waste pits from which they were excavated. Among the archaeological finding, three vessels of technical ceramics were found (a rectifier, a bowl and a jar) which together could have formed a distillation apparatus. Since these vessels represent a unique finding, they were subjected to a detailed survey. Based on the similarity of ceramic bodies and glazes, it was proved that the three vessels of technical ceramics were made in the same workshop and were parts of one distillation apparatus. The results of the performed analyses proved that the studied vessels were manufactured from raw materials with high content of a plastic component and that the raw materials did not change significantly during the period from 15th to 18th centuries. The firing temperature of most of the vessels did not exceed 1000 °C. It was proved that all glazes were middle- or high-lead glazes and were coloured with ionic pigments.
Functional MYB transcription factor gene HtMYB2 is associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis in Helianthus tuberosus L.
Authors: Gao Jieming , Zong Yuan , Yang Shipeng , Wang Lihui , Liu Baolong , Sun Xuemei
Published: March 2020

Background: Tuber color is an important trait for Helianthus tuberosus L. (Jerusalem artichoke), but the molecular mechanism underlying it is unknown. Results: In the current study, high-throughput RNA-sequencing was used to compare the transcriptomes between plants with tubers with red or white epidermis. Compared with the white-skinned tubers of cultivar QY3, anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes had greater expression in the red-skinned tubers of cultivar QY1, indicating that the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway was activated in ‘QY1’; quantitative PCR confirmed this difference in expression. HtMYB2 (Unigene44371_All) was the only MYB transcription factor expressed in the red tuber epidermis of ‘QY1’. HtMYB2 resembled an MYB transcription factor, regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis, and possessing an intact SANT/MYB and MYB-like DNA-binding domain. The anthocyanin concentration in the root, stem, leaf, flower, and tuber epidermis of ‘QY1’ was higher than in ‘QY3’, especially tuber epidermis. Correspondingly, HtMYB2 had greater expression in these tissues of ‘QY1’ than in ‘QY3’. The expression of HtMYB2 was associated with anthocyanin accumulation in the different tissues. Overexpression of HtMYB2 activated the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, accumulating the pigment in leaves of transgenic tobacco, supporting the model that HtMYB2 regulated anthocyanin biosynthesis. Further experiments found that HtMYB2 had the same coding sequence and genomic sequence in ‘QY1’ and ‘QY3’, but that there were several single nucleotide polymorphisms and one insertion–deletion (indel) mutation of 21 nucleotides in the promoter region between the two alleles. The deletion of three nucleotides “AAA” made the promoter of ‘QY1’ predicted to contain one more possible promoter region. A specific primer, based on the indel, could differentiate between cultivars with red or white tuber epidermis. The genetic variation in HtMYB2 was associated with the tuber skin color in a natural population.Conclusions: RNA-seq can successfully isolate the candidate gene (HTMYB2) controlling anthocyanin biosynthesis in purple epidermis of Jerusalem artichoke tuber. HTMYB2 can regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in plants and is closely related to the formation of purple phenotype in tubers. This study should be useful in understanding the genetic mechanism underlying different tuber skin colors and in breeding new H. tuberosus cultivars with different tuber skin colors.
Treatment of thoracolumbar fracture-dislocation with a trauma limitation strategy: a technical report and 2-year follow-up
Authors: wu fujun , hou genyi , huang nijiao , ju songli , Author) xin wang(New Corresponding , ao jun
Published: March 2020

Background: To investigate the curative effect of limited traumatic surgical strategy for thoracolumbar fracture-dislocation. Methods : Twenty-two patients with thoracolumbar fracture-dislocation who were admitted to our department from May 2013 to January 2016 were 16 males and 6 females, aged 21-53 years. All patients were associated with varying degrees of spinal nerve injury. Twenty-two patients were randomly assigned to the percutaneous minimally invasive group (group A) and the intermuscular approach group (group B). Among them, 11 patients in group A underwent percutaneous minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation combined with small incision for spinal canal reduction. Pressure and interbody fusion: 11 patients in group B underwent transpedicular space fixation with pedicle screw fixation combined with partial decompression and bone graft fusion. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss were recorded in the two groups. Visual analog scale (VAS) was recorded at 3 days and terminal follow-up. The fracture healing and spinal cord invasion rate were evaluated by imaging examination before and after the final follow-up. The neurological recovery was assessed according to the ASIA grading criteria. Result : There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in the operation time and intraoperative blood loss (P<0.05). The VAS scores of the lumbar dorsal incision were compared between the two groups at the same time point, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Imaging examination showed that the fracture healed well and there was no internal fixation fracture. The rate of spinal canal invasion in the fracture and dislocation segments of the two groups was compared at the final follow-up, and the difference was statistically significant. Neurological recovery at the last follow-up (ASIA classification): 6 patients with grade A, 6 patients with grade B, 7 patients with grade C, 2 patients with grade D, and 1 patient with grade E, with significant improvement compared with preoperative. Conclusion : Percutaneous minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation combined with small incision decompression of the spinal canal and interbody fusion can also achieve the effect of posterior open surgery, and the trauma is smaller, which is more conducive to postoperative rehabilitation and reduce surgical complications.
Relationship between pre-existing kyphosis and new vertebral compression fractures following percutaneous vertebroplasty in patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture.
Authors: Chen Chao , Yu Ronghua , Chen Liwei , Wang Silian , Li Zhikun , Xu Youjia
Published: March 2020

Background: Thoracolumbar kyphosis disrupts the overall balance of the spine, thus the stress on each segment of the spine is different from that of the normal sequence. This may affect the outcome after Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP). But few studies have examined the relationship between thoracolumbar kyphosis and new fractures after PVP. Methods: A cross-sectional was conducted to evaluate the effect of the thoracolumbar kyphosis angle on postoperative recurrent fractures in patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures. From 2013 to 2018, 486 patients were treated with PVP in our hospital, and 242 patients were included in the study. These patients were divided into groups A and B based on the Cobb angle (greater or less than 10 °) in the thoracolumbar region. Patients were followed up for 36 months. The average CT value of the thoracolumbar spine, BMD, and the time of recurrence of fractures were recorded. Results: A clear relationship was observed between thoracolumbar Cobb kyphosis and recurrent vertebral fractures (OR = 1.061, P = 0.003). In group A, the proportion of women was larger and the BMD values was lower than that in group B. But no difference was found in the average CT value. K-M survival analysis found no significant difference in the rate of fracture recurrence between the two groups, but the time interval of second fracture occured at adjacent levels was significantly shorter than that occurred at distant levels in group A, which was not found in group B. Conclusions: When patients have thoracolumbar kyphosis before surgery, PVP should not be a recommended treatment.
Resurgence risk for malaria, characterization of a recent outbreak in a Amazonian border area -French Guiana/Brazil-
Authors: MOSNIER Emilie , Dusfour Isabelle , Lacour Guillaume , Saldanha Raphael , Guidez Amandine , Gomes Margarete S. , Sanna Alice , Epelboin Yanouk , Restrepo Johana , Davy Damien , Demar Magalie , Djossou Félix , Douine Maylis , Ardillon Vanessa , Nacher Mathieu , Musset Lise , Roux Emmanuel
Published: March 2020

Background In 2017, inhabitants along the border between French Guiana and Brazil were affected by a malaria outbreak primarily due to Plasmodium vivax ( Pv ). While malaria cases have steadily declined between 2005-2016 in this Amazonian region, a resurgence was observed in 2017. Methods Two investigations were performed according to two different spatial scales and type of information details. Firstly, a local study on the French Guiana border, which enabled a thorough investigation of the malaria cases treated at the local village health center and of the entomological situation in the most affected neighborhood and secondly a regional and cross-border study, which enabled exploration of the regional spatial-temporal epidemic dynamic. Number and location of malaria cases were estimated using French and Brazilian surveillance systems. Results On the French Guiana side of the border in Saint Georges de l’Oyapock, the attack rate was 5.5% (n=219/4000), reaching 51.4% (n=90/175) in one Amerindian neighborhood. Entomological findings suggest a peak of Anopheles darlingi density in August and September. Two female An. darlingi (n=2/1104, 0.18%) were found Pv -positive during this peak. During the same period, aggregated data from passive surveillance conducted by Brazilian and French Guianese border health centers identified 1,566 cases of Pv infection. Temporal distribution during the 2007-2018 period displayed seasonal patterns with a peak in November 2017. Four clusters were identified among the epidemic profiles of the localities of the cross-border area. All localities of the first two clusters were Brazilian. The localization of the first cluster suggests an onset of the outbreak in the Amerindian reservation, subsequently expanding to French Amerindian neighborhoods and to non-Native communities. Conclusions The current findings demonstrate a potential increase in malaria cases in an area with otherwise declining numbers. This is a transborder area where human mobility and remote populations challenge malaria control programs. This investigation illustrates the importance of international border surveillance and collaboration for malaria control, particularly in Amerindian villages and mobile populations.
Epidemiology and risk factors of infective endocarditis in a tertiary hospital in China from 2007 to 2016
Authors: Wu Zhenzhu , Chen Yi , Xiao Tingting , Niu Tianshui , Shi Qingyi , xiao yonghong
Published: March 2020

Background: To explore the trends in epidemiology and risk factors related to the prognosis of infective endocarditis in a teaching hospital over the past ten years. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed. A total of 407 consecutive patients were included. The clinical characteristics and risk factors related to the prognosis of infective endocarditis during this period were analyzed. Results: A total of 407 patients with infective endocarditis were included, the average age was 48 ±16 years old with an increasing trend and in-hospital mortality rate was 10.6% and one-year mortality rate was 12.2%. Among patients with underlying heart disease, congenital heart disease was the most common(25.8%), followed by rheumatic heart disease which showed a decreased trend during this period (P<0.001). There were 222(54.5%) positive blood cultures and streptococci (44.1%) was the main pathogens with an increasing trend. There were 403 patients (99%) with surgical indications, but only 234 patients (57.5%) received surgical treatment. Hemodialysis (P = 0.041, OR = 4.697, 95% CI 1.068-20.665), pulmonary hypertension (P = 0.001, OR = 5.308, 95% CI 2.034-13.852), Pitt score ≥ 4 (P <0.001, OR = 28.5, 95% CI 5.5-148.1) and vegetation length＞30mm (P = 0.011, OR = 13.754, 95% CI 1.832-103.250) were independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: There was no significant change in the overall incidence of IE, the clinical features of IE have changed slightly during the past ten years. Streptococci IE was still the predominant. IE patients with hemodialysis, pulmonary hypertension, Pitt score ≥ 4 and vegetation length＞30mm had an worse in-hospital outcome.
Atrial function after treatment of atrial septal defects in children under 5 years
Authors: Choi Eun-Young , Kim Eun Sun , Kim Jung-Yoon , Park Su-Jin , Yoon Ja-kyoung , Noh Chung Il
Published: March 2020

BackgroundRecently, the patient’s age of atrial septal defect (ASD) treatment has been gradually decreasing. However, the most appropriate age and treatment method remain controversial. We hypothesized that treatment of ASDs in patients under 5 years would be able to adequately normalize bi-atrial function over one year after treatment. The purpose of this study is to confirm the normalization of hypothesized atrial function.MethodsData of fifteen patients who underwent surgical ASD closure under 5 years of age (Operation group), 15 patients who underwent percutaneous ASD closure (Device group), and 15 age- and gender-matched normal control patients (Control group) were extracted from our echocardiographic data. Conventional 2D images and 2D speckle tracking method were used to evaluate bi-atrial function.ResultsLeft atrial function, εS, εE, and εA showed no significant differences in the three groups. Indicators representing the right atrial function varied with the three groups. However, there were no significant differences in the global longitudinal strain of the right atrium between the Operation and Device groups.ConclusionsAfter ASD treatment, right atrial function recovery is less than that of the left atrium. The function of the right atrium is not normalized after more than one year of treatment for ASD in patients under 5 years. After ASD treatment, further follow-up of the bi-atrial function is necessary.
Perspectives on illness-related stigma and electronically sharing psychiatric health information by people with Multiple Sclerosis.
Authors: Yu Eileen , Adams-Clark Alexis , Riehm Alison , Franke Caroline , Susukida Ryoko , Pinto Melissa , Arenberg Steven , Tosi Dominique , Hughes Abbey , Montague Amanda , Kumar Anupama , Jamison Kay , Kaplin Adam
Published: March 2020

Background: Electronic medical records (EMRs) have transformed the way healthcare professionals manage and share patient data while providing integrated and comprehensive care. However, the rate of EMR use among psychiatrists is generally lower compared to physicians in other medical disciplines, in part due to concerns over patients’ experience of stigma surrounding mental health. This paper explores the willingness to share medical records among people with multiple sclerosis (MS), who experience higher rates of psychiatric comorbidities compared to the general population. It also examines the role that stigma plays in patients’ preferences regarding the sharing of their electronic medical records. Methods: MS patients were surveyed regarding their co-occurring psychiatric and non-psychiatric diagnoses, willingness to share their health information electronically among their treating doctors, and levels of self and societal stigma associated with their various co-occurring diagnoses. Results: 96.44% and 87.14% of participants were willing to share their non-psychiatric and psychiatric diagnoses, respectively; 97.70% and 92.78% were willing to share non-psychiatric and psychiatric medications, respectively. MS patients with a psychiatric co-occurring diagnosis, compared to those without, were significantly more likely to share their psychiatric diagnosis (AOR = 2.59) and psychiatric medications (AOR = 3.19). Those with both non-psychiatric and psychiatric co-occurring diagnoses were significantly more likely to share their psychiatric diagnosis (AOR = 3.84) and psychiatric medications (AOR = 7.02) than patients with no co-occurring diagnosis other than MS. Five (substance use, personality, eating, psychotic, and neurodevelopmental disorders) of the top six diagnoses for which societal stigma was greater than self stigma, and three (sexual, anxiety, and mood disorders) of the top five diagnoses for which self stigma was greater than societal stigma were psychiatric diagnoses. High levels of societal stigma correlated with decreased likelihood in sharing non-psychiatric medications, while high levels of self stigma were associated with a greater decrease in patient willingness to share psychiatric medications. Conclusions: Despite the presence of stigma decreasing patient willingness to share medical records, people with MS who had psychiatric disorders, compared to those without, endorsed greater willingness to share their health records electronically.
Effect of Family Presence on Pain and Anxiety Levels among Patients during Invasive Nursing Procedures in an Emergency Department
Authors: Gheshlaghi Parvin Abdi , Farahani Ziba Barzabadi , Anboohi Sima Zohari , Nasiri Malihe , Ziapour Arash , Garosi Vahid Hatami
Published: March 2020

Background: It is widely accepted that pain is the most common complaint during invasive nursing procedures, which causes anxiety in patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of family presence on the level of pain and anxiety of patients during invasive nursing procedures in emergency department.Methods: The present non-randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 70 patients referred to emergency department at selected hospital affiliated to Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in 2018, who were selected by convenience sampling method and then randomly assigned into two groups of intervention (even days) and control (odd days). The invasive nursing procedure was performed for the intervention group in the family presence for physical and psychological support and for the control group without the family presence. Data collection tools were the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). SPSS version 23 software was used to compare the mean scores of pain and anxiety using independent t-test.Results: The mean pain score after the invasive procedure had no significant difference between the intervention group (3.9±1.5) and the control group (4.7±1.9) (P=0.073). In the intervention group, the mean score of anxiety after invasive procedure was significantly lower than before the invasive procedure (P=0.028), whereas the control group showed no change (P=0.556).Conclusion: The family presence during the invasive nursing procedures reduced the anxiety of patients but had no effect on their pain. Emergency nurses can take advantage of family presence during invasive procedures as a non-pharmacological intervention to reduce patients' anxiety.
Motivational climate of group exercise sessions in nursing homes
Authors: Charles Alexia , Buckinx Fanny , Mouton Alexandre , Reginster Jean-Yves , Bruyère Olivier
Published: March 2020

BackgroundMotivational climate in exercise group environments would have an impact on adherence, effort and enjoyment. We examined the motivational climate among nursing home residents who were involved in group exercise sessions.Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 nursing homes of Liège area that offer group exercise sessions. Sociodemographic data (age, sex, body mass index), cognitive status (by the Mini Mental State Examination) and independence in activities of daily living (by the Katz Scale) were retrieved in the medical records. The “Abbreviated-Perceived Motivational Climate in Exercise Questionnaire” was translated into French and then administered face to face with a clinical researcher. This is composed of 6 ego-involving climate items (corresponding to rivalry, comparison and favoritism) and 6 task-involving climate items (corresponding to valorization, individual efforts, self-improvement and cooperation). Each item is ranged on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (not at all focused on ego or task) to 5 (totally focused on ego or task). Each subscale has a total score expressed as an average.ResultsA total of 102 subjects of exercise group sessions were included (84.3 ± 7.7 years and 83 (81.4%) women). The mean score of task-involving and ego-evolving motivational climate was respectively 3.57 (SD= 0.67) and 1.52 (SD=0.49), suggesting that the motivational climate was more focused on the task-involving climate than on ego-involving climate. Some items results were of particular interest: 55.9% of the respondents found that the instructor doesn’t remark/reward when they try hard, 63.7% said that the instructor doesn’t encourage mutual aid and 38.2% found that instructor doesn’t encourage to do new exercises.ConclusionsParticipants tended to perceive motivational climate as more task-involving than ego-involving. The absence of individual positive feedback, new exercises and mutual aid were also highlighted.
Screening of Concentration and Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Antimicrobial Preservative in Betastatin Besylate Nasal Spray
Authors: yanhong sun , Wang Yin-huan , Zhou Jian-ming , Zhou Qing-xue , Dong Shi-lei
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVE To explore the optimal concentration and antimicrobial effectiveness of antimicrobial preservative in betastatin besylate nasal spray. METHODS By using Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Candia albicans, and Aspergillus niger as test strains, the antimicrobial effectiveness of betastatin besylate nasal spray containing different concentrations of antimicrobial preservative (0.02%, 0.0125%, and 0.005% benzalkonium chloride, respectively) was determined by using bacteriostatic effect test (Chinese Pharmacopoeia, 2015 edition).RESULTS The antimicrobial effectiveness of betastatin besylate nasal spray containing 0.02% and 0.0125% benzalkonium chloride, respectively, complied with the regulations of Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2015 Edition) against five test strains. However, the antimicrobial effectiveness of betastatin besylate nasal spray containing 0.005% benzalkonium chloride against P. aeruginosa did not meet the requirements of Chinese Pharmacopoeia.CONCLUSION Benzalkonium chloride at a concentration of 0.125% can be used as an added antimicrobial preservative in betastatin besylate nasal spray.
Liquiritin represses proliferation , migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells through inhibition of the miR-671/HOXB3 signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhang Yinan , Bao Jun , Feng Ji-Feng
Published: March 2020

Background: Colorectal cancer is a common malignant tumor and ranks third in cancer-related deaths. Considering that the side-effects of current therapies limit the clinical effectiveness, exploring new anti-colorectal cancer drugs from natural products is critical for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Among these drugs, liquiritin is an active component of the traditional Chinese herb Glycyrrhiza Radix and has been found to possess powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor abilities. However, the direct molecular target of liquiritin remains unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify potential molecular target of liquiritin to mediate its anti-colorectal cancer effect. Methods: The function of liquiritin in cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion was estimated by CCK-8 assay, colony formation, EdU assay, flow cytometry analysis, TUNEL assay, wound healing assay and transwell assay, respectively. Animal experiment was carried out to further confirm the role of liquiritin in vivo. H&E staining analysis, TUNEL staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay were adopted for histological analysis. The mechanism research was conducted with RT-qPCR, western blot and luciferase report assay. Results: In this study, we found that liquiritin significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT processes of SW480 and HT-29 cells in a dose-dependent manner. MiRNAs have been extensively identified as drug targets in various studies. However, the miRNAs functioning as the direct targets of liquiritin remain unknown. In our study, we tested 8 potential pathogenic miRNAs screened from colorectal cancer patients, and we found that only the expression level of miR-671 was diminished due to liquiritin treatment. More importantly, overexpression of miR-671 partially abrogated the anti-tumor effects of liquiritin on colorectal cancer. Conclusions: Collectively, our findings demonstrated that liquiritin exhibits great potential in the treatment of colorectal cancer through regulation of miR-671.
Responsiveness and minimal clinically important difference of the EQ-5D-5L in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: a longitudinal study
Authors: Hu Xin , Jing Mingxia , Zhang Mei , Yang Ping , Yan Xiaolong
Published: March 2020

Background: With the application of the EQ-5D-5L in clinic, whether the questionnaire scores can responsive to changes in patients' health and how much changes in questionnaire scores represents the real health change are gradually concerned. So the aims of the study were to assess the responsiveness and estimate MCID of the EQ-5D-5L in surgically treated CIN patients, and to analyze the relationship between MCID and MDC.Methods: This is a longitudinal observational study. Participants were CIN patients from the gynecology inpatient department of a Grade-A Tertiary Hospital in Shihezi, Xinjiang, China, which completed the EQ-5D-5L and the GRCQ at baseline and 1 month after the surgery. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare scores of the EQ-5D-5L before and after treatment. We calculated ES and SRM to assess the responsiveness quantitatively. Distribution-based, anchor-based and instrument-defined methods were used to estimate MCID. And ratios of MCID to MDC at individual and group levels were calculated. Results: 50 CIN patients completed follow-up investigate with mean (SD): age 44.76 (8.72) years; follow-up time 32.28 (1.43) days. The UI and EQ VAS of the EQ-5D-5L improved by 0.025 and 6.92 (all p <0.05) at follow-up compared baseline, respectively. ES and SRM of UI were 0.47 and 0.42, indicating small responsiveness, while ES and SRM of EQ VAS were 0.50 and 0.49, indicating small to medium responsiveness. The average (range) of MCIDs for UI and EQ VAS were 0.039 (0.023, 0.064) and 5.35 (3.12, 6.99), which can only be used for determing whether patients have experienced clinically meaningful improvement in health at group level. Conclusion: The EQ-5D-5L has only small responsiveness in patients with CIN after surgery, and MCIDs developed in this study can be used for health assessment at group level. Further study is needed on MCID that can be used at individual level. Keywords Responsiveness; MCID; EQ-5D-5L; CIN; MDC
A New Surgical Technique of Combination Retroperitoneal with Transperitoneal Laparoscopic Nephroureterectomy in a Single Position and Comparative Outcomes
Authors: Song Liming , Wang Wenkuan , Zhao Qinxin , Wen Yuhong , Zhou Xiaoguang , Han Hu , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: March 2020

Background The traditional surgical treatment for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is time-consuming owing to changing the surgical position and larger surgical trauma because of open surgery in handling the distal ureter. Therefore, we created a new surgical technique of combination retroperitoneal with transperitoneal (CRT) laparoscopic nephroureterectomy (LNU) in a single position and to reported our early outcomes. Methods From January 2017 to October 2018, a total of 45 patients underwent LNU by a single surgeon at our department, of whom 25 patients underwent standard technique and 20 patients underwent CRT technique. Relevant clinical data were collected including each patient’s characteristics, surgical outcomes, and follow-up results. A comparative analysis between standard LNU cases and CRT LNU cases was performed. Results LNU was performed successfully on all 45 patients. There was no significant difference in patients’ characteristics. Compared to standard group, patients in CRT group had shorter operative time, less estimated blood loss (EBL), lower visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score and less scar ( P <0.001). The mean time of surgical drain stay decreased from 4.2d to 2.8d and median hospital stay after surgery decreased from 5d to 3d ( P <0.001). The complication rates did not show statistic difference between the two groups within the first 30 days postoperatively ( P =0.258). For the long-term complications, the incidence of abdomen bulge or incisional hernia in CRT group was less than that in the standard group ( P <0.001). Conclusion The CRT technique, which combines both the advantages of retroperitoneal and transperitoneal approaches, is a more minimally invasive, simplified and effective way to perform the LNU.
Evaluation of PTPRT Mutations as Biomarkers for Cancer Metastasis Across Multiple Cancer Types
Authors: chen chao , Zhang Xiuqing
Published: March 2020

Cancer metastasis is the main cause of cancer-related death, but the mechanism of metastasis is still unclear, and there is lack of metastasis markers. PTPRT is a protein coding gene which may be involved in both signal transduction and cellular adhesion, it is also known as a tumor suppressor gene that inhibits cell malignant proliferation by inhibiting the STAT3 pathway[1-3]. Recent studies have reported that PTPRT may be involved in the early metastasis of colorectal cancer, but to our knowledge, no comprehensive study has yet revealed a link between PTPRT and metastasis in other types of cancer[4, 5]. In this study, we found that mutations in PTPRT were a potential biomarker of cancer metastasis in multiple cancers through a combined analysis using a large data set.
Inhibitory effects of iron depletion plus eribulin on the breast cancer microenvironment
Authors: Goto Wataru , Kashiwagi Shinichiro , Asano Yuka , Takada Koji , Morisaki Tamami , Takahashi Katsuyuki , Fujita Hisakazu , Shibutani Masatsune , Amano Ryosuke , Takashima Tsutomu , Tomita Shuhei , Hirakawa Kosei , Ohira Masaichi
Published: March 2020

Background Iron is required for the proliferation of cancer cells, and its depletion suppresses tumor growth. Eribulin mesylate (eribulin), a non-taxane microtubule inhibitor, disrupts the tumor microenvironment via vascular remodeling and obstruction of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Herein, we investigated the effects of the iron chelator deferoxamine (DFO) on tumor-related properties of breast cancer cells and the effects of DFO plus eribulin on tumor growth in vivo . Methods A triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line (MDA-MB-231) was used in our study. Cell proliferation, cell migration, cell cycle position, and gene expression were analyzed via MTT assays, wound-healing assays, flow cytometry, and quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. For the in vivo experiments, mice with MDA-MB-231 xenografts were treated with the inhibitors, alone or together, and tumor volume was determined. Results DFO inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation and migration and decreased the proportion of S-phase cells. Conversely, it induced hypoxia, angiogenesis, EMT, and immune checkpoints, as determined by quantifying the expression of marker mRNAs. Eribulin suppressed the expression of the EMT marker mRNAs in the presence of DFO. DFO plus eribulin inhibited tumor growth in vivo to a greater extent than did either inhibitor alone. Conclusions Although DFO induces oncogenic events (hypoxia, angiogenesis, EMT, and immune checkpoints), it may be an effective treatment for breast cancer when administered in combination with eribulin.
The imaging features and clinical associations of a novel tau PET tracer - 18F-APN1607(18F-PM-PBB3) in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Hsu Jung Lung , Lin Kun-Ju , Hsiao Ing-Tsung , Huang Kuo-Lun , Liu Chi-Hung , Wu Hsiu-Chuan , Weng Yi-Ching , Huang Chu-Yun , Chang Chiung-Chih , Yen Tzu-Chen , Higuchi Makoto , Jang Ming-Kuei , Huang Chin-Chang
Published: March 2020

Background: In vivo tau positron emission tomography (PET) imaging could help clarify the spatial distribution of tau deposition in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and aid in the differential diagnosis of tauopathies. To date, there have been no in vivo 18 F-APN1607 tau PET studies in patients with AD.Methods: We applied tau tracer in twelve normal controls (NCs) and ten patients in the mild to moderate stage of probable AD. Detailed clinical information, cognitive measurements and disease severity were documented. Regional standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs) from 18 F-AV-45 (florbetapir), 18 F-APN1607 PET images and regional gray matter (GM) atrophic ratios were calculated for further analysis.Results: Quantitative analyses showed significantly elevated SUVRs in the frontal, temporal, parietal, occipital lobes, anterior and posterior cingulate gyri, precuneus, and parahippocampal region (all ps < 0.01) with medium to large effect sizes (0.44 - 0.75). The SUVRs from 18 F-APN1607 PET imaging showed significant correlations with the ADAS-cog scores (all ps < 0.01) and strong correlation coefficients (R squared ranged from 0.54 to 0.68), even adjusted for age and gender effects. Finally, the SUVRs from 18 F-APN1607 PET imaging of the parahippocampal region showed rapid saturation as the ADAS-cog scores increased, and the SUVRs of the posterior cingulate gyrus and the temporal, frontal, parietal and occipital regions slowly increased. The combined SUVRs from 18 F-AV-45 PET, 18 F-APN1607 PET and regional GM atrophic ratio showed that uptake associated with the amyloid burden rapidly increased and reach a plateau, whereas uptake associated with tau depositions increased slowly and finally followed by regional GM atrophic ratios in most regions as the ADAS-cog scores increased. However, different regions exhibited various combinations of these patterns.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the 18 F-APN1607 tau tracer showed a clear background without significant uptake in the basal ganglia or midbrain. Uptake of this tracer correlated well with cognitive changes and demonstrated the spatial pattern of amyloid, tau deposition and GM atrophy in the progression of AD. Thus, the regional base of dynamic biomarker changes was observed in the current study.Trial registration: registration number (NCT03625128), date of registration( August 10, 2018), retrospectively registered.
Efficacy of Chloroquine and Lopinavir/Ritonavir in mild/general COVID-2019: a prospective, open-label, multicenter randomized controlled clinical study
Authors: Liu Xi , Chen Huili , Shang Yuqi , Zhu Hongqiong , Chen Gongqi , Chen Yuanli , Liu Shaoxuan , Zhou Yaoyong , Huang Mingxing , Hong Zhongsi , Xia Jinyu
Published: March 2020

Background The outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia is very serious, and no effective antiviral treatment has been confirmed. The fresh drug research and development cycle is too long to meet clinical emergency needs, and "old drugs and brand new applications" have a huge therapeutic potential. During our previous treatment, we found that the lopinavir/ritonavir treatment recommended in the Fifth edition of the treatment plan had little effect. Earlier studies have shown that chloroquine can inhibit coronavirus replication through multiple mechanisms. Our previous use of chloroquine to treat patients with SARS-CoV-2(novel coronavirus)-infected pneumonia has a higher negative rate of nucleic acid in throat swabs within 5 days after administration than that using lopinavir/ritonavir. However, the half-life and side effects of chloroquine vary greatly among individuals. Methods/design We plan to conduct a prospective, open-label, multicenter randomized controlled, comprehensive treatment clinical study. The study consisted of three phases: a screening period of 1-110 days, a treatment period of no more than 28 days, and a follow-up period of 1 month. Participants will be assessed at baseline and on days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 21, and 28 after the intervention begins. In this study, chloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir tablets were used to treat patients with eligible novel coronavirus pneumonia diagnosed at various centers between February 12, 2020 and May 31, 2020. The efficacy and safety of chloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir are to be evaluated. At the same time, explore the correlation between patient genetic polymorphisms and chloroquine steady-state concentration, therapeutic effects and adverse reactions in the body. It is an anti-virus for pneumonitis caused by novel coronavirus. The optimization and update of the antiviral treatment plan provides evidence-based evidence. Disscussion Our study is a prospective, open-label, multicenter randomized controlled, comprehensive treatment clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of chloroquine phosphate and lopinavir/ritonavir in patients with mild/general COVID-2019. The results of this study will provide valuable clinical evidence for the treatment of novel coronavirus pneumonia.
Elevated serum levels of galectin-3 binding protein is associated with insulin resistance in non-diabeteic women after menopause
Authors: Chen Yun , Das Sayantana , Zhuo Guangchao , Cai Hong
Published: March 2020

Background Galectin-3 binding protein (GAL-3BP) is one of the major fucosylated glycoprotein family members, and is implicated in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, lipid dysfunctions and coronary artery disease recently. Here we analyzed the serum concentrations of GAL-3BP in postmenopausal women, to evaluate the association of circulating GAL-3BP and insulin resistance in female after menopause. Method We evaluated serum levels of Gal-3BP in sixty-two non-diabetic women in menopausal status for at least one year. The clinical features, biochemistry profiles and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were obtained routinely. Results Gal-3BP levels increased in women with higher HOMA-IR values and was positively correlated to HOMA-IR. It was also an independent risk factors for HOMA-IR and showed the most influence on HOMA-IR comparing to FPG, TG, age and BMI. The cut-off value of serum Gal-3BP level was 2234.3150 ng/ml with the area under the ROC curve (AUC) 0.68 (HOMA-IR 1.5), 0.81 (HOMA-IR 2.0) and 0.93 (HOMA-IR 2.5). Conclusions Serum levels of Gal-3BP is associated with impaired insulin sensitivity in non-diabetic menopausal women.
The burden and outcome of stroke in young adults in a Tanzanian Tertiary Hospital: A Comparison with older Adults
Authors: Matuja Sarah Shali , Munseri Patricia , Khanbhai Khuzeima
Published: March 2020

Background: Stroke burden in young adults is growing and is associated with unique risk factors and devastating outcomes. We aimed at describing the magnitude, risk factors and outcomes of first ever stroke in young adults ≤45 years compared to older adults >45 years. Methods: Participants were patients admitted with World Health Organization clinical criteria for stroke at a tertiary hospital in Tanzania. The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale and Modified Rankin Scale were used to assess for stroke severity and outcomes respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate for survival. Results: We enrolled 369 first ever stroke participants out of 1403 medical admissions over 8 months’ duration. The overall stroke prevalence was 369 (26.3%) and was 123/484 {(25.4%) [95% CI 21.5% - 29.3%]} and 246/919 {(26.8%) [95% CI 23.9% - 29.6%]} for young and old respectively. Hemorrhagic stroke occurred in 47 (42.3%) vs 62 (27.2%) for the young and old respectively p=0.005. Factors associated with stroke in the young were: a new diagnosis of hypertension 33 (26.8%) vs 23 (9.3%) p<0.001, HIV infection 12 (9.8%) vs 7 (2.8%) p=0.005, use of hormonal contraception in females 33 (48.5%) vs 13 (9.4%) p<0.001, elevated serum low density lipoproteins 28 (27.7%) vs 29 (16.4%) p=0.024, hypercholesteremia 34 (31.2%) vs 40 (20.2%), p=0.031, sickle cell disease 11 (9.7%) vs 9 (4.2%) p=0.047 and thrombocytosis 12 (16.9%) vs 8 (5.6%) p=0.007. The median time for seeking health care was 2 days from stroke symptom onset. The overall 30-day fatality rate was 215 (61.3%) and 57 (49.1%) vs 158 (67.2%) in the young and old respectively. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of stroke in young adults that is coupled with a high 30day fatality rate. Screening and treatment of hypertension is key in prevention of stroke in the young.
Scepter XC Balloon Angioplasty for Vasospasm Following Ruptured Aneurysm: Single-Center Experience and Results
Authors: Chen Chun-Ting , Chen Ching-Chang , Wang Alvin Yi-Chou , Wu Yi-Ming , Chin Shy-Chyi , Hsieh Po-Chuan , Yeap Mun-Chun , Hsu Shih-Yuan , Lin Ya-Jui
Published: March 2020

Background: Cerebral vasospasm still results in high morbidity and mortality rates in patients after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The aim of this study was to establish a protocol for the management of vasospasm and demonstrate our experience of angioplasty using the Scepter XC balloon catheter. Methods: An image survey was arranged if early symptomatic vasospasm occurred, or on the 7th day following aneurysmal SAH. In patients with clear consciousness, balloon angioplasties were performed for symptomatic vasospasms, which were not improved within 6-12 hours after maximal medical treatments. In unconscious patients, balloon angioplasties were performed for all patients with angiographic vasospasms. We retrospectively reviewed clinical findings, radiological results, and functional outcomes for these patients. Results: Fifty patients underwent Scepter XC balloon angioplasty among 396 consecutive patients who accepted endovascular or surgical treatments for ruptured aneurysms. All angioplasty procedures were successful without complications. 100% angiographic improvement and 94% clinical improvement were reached immediately after the angioplasties. A favorable functional outcome (modified Rankin Score of ≤2) could be achieved in 82% of patients. Even in patients with poor clinical grading (Hunt–Hess grade 4–5), a clinical improvement rate of 87.5% and favorable functional outcome rate of 70.8% could still be achieved. Conclusion: Balloon angioplasty with Scepter XC balloon catheter is safe and effective for post-SAH vasospasm. This device’s extra-compliant characteristics could considerably improve the quality of angioplasty procedures. For all patients, even those with poor neurological status, aggressive evaluation and early treatment of vasospasm can noticeably improve clinical outcomes.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Uncovers Genes and Pathways Relating to Downy Mildew Resistance in Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.)
Authors: Ponnuchamy Manivel , Patel Sandip , Mathew Jincy , Kumar Jitendra , Reddy Nagaraja Reddy Rama
Published: March 2020

BackgroundIsabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.) downy mildew (DM), caused by obligate oomycete pathogen Peronospora plantaginis Underwood., is the single most damaging disease of Isabgol. However, reports on the genes and pathways involved in mediating resistance are still unknown.ResultsIn the present study, transcriptomic analysis was carried out by next generation sequencing of DM infected and uninfected leaves of resistant and susceptible genotypes to understand the genetic mechanisms underlie the host-plant resistance. A total of 33.47 million reads were generated and de novo assembled and annotated. The assembly using Trinity yielded 38803, 40175, 45451 and 39533 non-redundant transcript contigs, respectively in susceptible infected, Susceptible uninfected, Resistant infected and resistant uninfected samples. More than 90% of coding DNA sequence (CDS) predicted were annotated using BLAST search. Isabgol transcriptome showed the highest similarity to Sesamum indicum (41-59%) followed by Erythranthe guttata (10-13%). Putative CDS encoding Pathogen associated Molecular Pattern (PAMP)-triggered immunity (PTI), Effector-Triggered Immunity (ETI), Cell wall degrading enzymes, Phytohormone signalling and Phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways involved in host-pathogen interaction were identified in addition to the identification of several candidate resistance (R) genes enriched in response to DM infection. We identified significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) genes; 6928 DEGs in resistant uninfected (RU) vs resistant infected (RI) of DPO-185 (resistant) genotype and 8779 susceptible uninfected (SU) vs susceptible infected (SI) of DPO-14 (susceptible) genotype. Expression of 11 genes involved in plant defense quantified accordingly using RT-qPCR.ConclusionsThis study for the first time provides the glimpse of transcriptional responses to the DM resistance in Isabgol. The genes and pathways will be helpful in further investigating the molecular mechanisms associated with DM disease resistance in Isabgol and to develop control mechanisms accordingly.
Directional preference of otolith-related neurons in vestibular nucleus
Authors: Nguyen Nguyen , Kim Kyu-Sung , Kim Gyutae
Published: March 2020

Background: Due to the paired structure of two labyrinths at both sides of ear, their communication is conducted through the interconnected commissural pathway. The close interconnection produces the neural responding property in vestibular nucleus, and the mechanical movement of the hair cells mainly specifies the property. However, the mechanism to initiate the responding property was evident based on the structure, but few direct experimental data were provided to understand the responding property based on the structure.Experimental Approach: The directional preference was investigated, which was one of critical neural responding property to illustrate the functional structure. Also, a chemically induced unilateral labyrinthectomy (UL) was performed to emphasize the preference. For the model evaluation, static and dynamic behavioral tests were applied, and the results demonstrated a practical model construction. Following the evaluation, an extracellular neural activity was conducted for the neuronal responses to the horizontal head rotation and the linear head movement.Results: Seventy seven neuronal activities were recorded from thirty SD rats (270-450 g, male), and total population was divided into three groups; left UL (20), sham (35), right UL (22). Based on the directional preference, two sub-groups were again classified as contra- and ipsi-preferred neurons. There was no significance between those sub-groups (contra-: 15/35, 43%; ipsi-: 20/35, 57%) in sham model. However, more ipsi-preferred neurons (19/22, 86%) were observed after right UL while left UL caused more contra-preferred neurons (13/20, 65%). In particular, the convergent neurons mainly led this biased difference in the population (ipsi-: 100% after right UL & contra-: 89% after left UL).Conclusion: The directional preference was evenly maintained under a normal vestibular function, and its unilateral loss biased the directional preference of the neurons, depending on the side of lesion. Moreover, the dominance of the directional preference was mainly led by the convergent neurons which had the neural information related with head rotation and linear translation.