bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of Life and Factors Influencing it: A Study Among People Living Near a Waste Treatment Plant
Authors: Phan Long Thanh , Nguyen Gia Thanh , Nguyen Quynh Anh Dac , Nguyen Hieu Song , Nguyen Tin Trung , Watanabe Toru
Published: August 2020

Background: The amount of waste generated has been increasing over the years, while the ability to dispose of it does not meet the needs at waste treatment plants (WTP), resulting in negative consequences on the natural environment and health of the residents living near these plants; these effects can significantly degrade their quality of life (QoL). Although previous studies on the impact of solid waste and wastewater treatment plants have focused on the health problems suffered by nearby residents, the impact of these plants has scarcely been discussed in the context of mental health, social relationships, and the environment. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the QoL as a comprehensive indicator of the impact the presence of a WTP has on nearby residents, and determine the factors that influence their QoL. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted involving 801 subjects, aged 18 and above, who live near the WTP of Hue city, Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam. The QoL of the subjects was quantitatively assessed using the World Health Organization's (WHO) QoL assessment scale (WHOQOL-BREF). The general, health, and environmental factors influencing QoL were identified using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: It was found that only 22.6% of the subjects have a good QoL. In particular, the proportions for good psychological health (6.9%) and environment (13.6%) were low, which may indicate an influence of the WTP. Significant factors that degraded the residents’ QoL are: a lower educational level defined by not graduating from high school (OR=2.78; 1.09−7.06), poor health status (OR=2.50; 95% CI: 1.56−4.01), dissatisfaction with water quality (OR=2.41; 95% CI: 1.10−5.25), and unacceptance of the WTP presence (OR=1.70; 95% CI: 1.11−2.60). Moreover, it was found that subjects living within 2 km of the plant had dermatological syndromes and digestive disorders more frequently than those who lived farther away from the plant. They also reported more complaints about water, air, and soil quality, which were probably due to the operation of the WTP. Conclusions: Burying and disposing of solid waste at the WTP could lead to a degradation of the surrounding water and soil environments, while its collection and transportation is believed to cause odor and dust. The efforts of responsible authorities to strictly supervise and inspect these activities at the WTP are essential, not only to protect the surrounding environment but also to improve the QoL of those who live near these plants.
Presentation of Two New Empirical Equations for Point-Centered Quarter Method for Estimating Trees Density in the Forest
Authors: Haidari Reza Hossein
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives: The point-centered quarter(PCQ) method is one of the distance sampling methods. Previously, researchers such as Cottam and Curtis (1954), Pollard(1971), and Haidari et al. (2008) introduced three equations to the estimation of plant density using the above method. The objective of this research includes developing two new formula for the estimation of tree density with the PCQ method,which is not biased toward the tree distribution pattern. Materials and methods: In this study, 40 circular sample plots (1000 m2 as the real state) and PCQ method were measured via a systematic random sampling design (100 m × 100 m) in the educational research forest at Razi University in Dalahoo Mountain in Kermanshah province. Later, through the mentioned formulas, forest stand density was calculated. Then, the obtained density with different formulas of the PCQ method with the circular plot in the spatial pattern of various types (uniform, random, and cluster) was compared in terms of accuracy and precision.Results: The results showed that two new empirical equations for estimating the density of trees in forest stand were more appropriate than the previous equations in terms of accuracy and precision.Conclusion: The new equations have the following important characteristics: Firstly, they are less dependence on the tree distribution pattern than other equations are, and secondly, the number of trees per area unit can be calculated for each sampling point like the equation used for the sample plot methods. Finally, it is suggested to use the new equations for other forests and also other vegetation, such as the grasslands and scrublands.
Hyper-Activation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress PERK/Calcineurin/RyR2 Signaling Pathway is Involved in AGEs-Exacerbated Post- Myocardial Infarction Ventricular Arrhythmias
Authors: Liu Zhongwei , Zhang Yong , Pan Shuo , Qiu Chuan , Jia Hao , Wang Yuan , Zhu Haitao
Published: August 2020

Background: The current study was aimed to investigate the mechanisms of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in exacerbating post- myocardial infarction (MI) ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Methods: Correlation between premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and serum AGEs concentrations was analyzed in a cohort consisted of 101 STEMI patients with culprit vessel of left anterior descending artery (LAD). Established MI rat model were treated with AGEs and/or anti- receptor for AGE (RAGE) antibody. Electrocardiography was used to record VAs. Myocytes were isolated from adjacent area around infracted region. Immunofluorescent stains were used to evaluate association between FKBP12.6 (FK506-bindingprotein 12.6) and ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2). Calcium sparks were evaluated by confocal microscope. Protein expression and phosphorylation were assessed by Western blotting. A colorimetric method was used to determine the enzymatic activity of calcineurin (CaN). [3H]-ryanodine binding assay was carried out to detect the RyR2 channel activity. Results: In the cohort study, significantly increased amount of (PVCs) were found in STEMI patients with diabetes (P<0.05). Serum AGEs concentration was significantly positively correlated with PVCs amount in STEMI patients (r=0.416, P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed serum AGEs concentration was independently and positively related to frequent PVCs (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.09-3.18, P=0.022). In the animal study, increased glucose regulated protein 78 (GRP78) expression, protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) phosphorylation, CaN enzymatic activity, FKBP12.6-RyR2 disassociation, RyR2 channel opening and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium releasing were found in MI animals exposed to AGEs, which were attenuated by anti-RAGE antibody treatment. This RAGE blocking also significantly lowered the VAs amount in MI animals exposed to AGEs. Conclusions: Hyper-activation of ER stress- mediated PERK/CaN/RyR2 signaling participated in AGEs- exacerbated post-MI VAs.
Effects of Ceramide Accumulation in Cardiomyocytes Derived from human-induced Pluripotent Stem Cells on Mitochondrial Function and Mitophagy
Authors: Bekhite Mohamed , González-Delgado Andres , Kretzschma Tom , Müller Tina , Wu Jasmine M.F. , Bekfani Tarek , Franz Marcus , Wartenberg Maria , Gräler Markus , Greber Boris , Schulze Christian
Published: August 2020

BackgroundOversupply of fatty acids (FAs) to cardiomyocytes (CMs) is associated with increased ceramide content and elevated the risk of lipotoxic cardiomyopathy. Here we investigate the role of ceramide accumulation on mitochondrial function and mitophagy in cardiac lipotoxicity using CMs derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (h-iPSCs). Methods and resultsMature CMs derived from h-iPSCs exposed to the diabetic-like environment or transfected with plasmids overexpressing serine-palmitoyltransferase long chain base subunit 1 (SPTLC1), a subunit of the serine-palmitoyltransferase (SPT) complex, resulted in increased intracellular ceramide levels. Accumulation of ceramides impaired insulin-dependent phosphorylation of Akt through activating protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and disturbed gene and protein levels of key metabolic enzymes including GLUT4, AMPK, PGC-1α, PPARα, CD36, PDK4, and PPARγ compared to controls. Analysis of CMs oxidative metabolism using a Seahorse analyzer showed a significant reduction in ATP synthesis-related O2 consumption, mitochondrial basal respiration and respiratory capacity, indicating an impaired mitochondrial function under diabetic-like conditions or SPTLC1-overexpression. Further, ceramide accumulation increased mitochondrial fission regulators such as dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) and mitochondrial fission factor (MFF) as well as auto/mitophagic proteins LC3B and PINK-1 compared to control. Incubation of CMs with the specific SPT inhibitor (myriocin) showed a significant increase in mitochondrial fusion regulators the mitofusin 2 (MFN2) and optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) as well as p-Akt, PGC-1 α, GLUT-4, and ATP production. In addition, a significant decrease in auto/mitophagy and apoptosis was found in CMs treated with myriocin.ConclusionsOur results suggest that ceramide accumulation has important implications in driving insulin resistance, oxidative stress, increased auto/mitophagy, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the setting of lipotoxic cardiomyopathy. Therefore, modulation of the de novo ceramide synthesis pathway may serve as a novel therapeutic target to treat metabolic cardiomyopathy.
Girl-Only Clubs’ Influence on SRH Knowledge, HIV Risk Reduction, and Negative SRH Outcomes among Very Young Adolescent Girls in Rural Malawi
Authors: Manda Wanangwa Chimwaza , Pilgrim Nanlesta , Kamndaya Mphatso , Mathur Sanyukta , Sikweyiya Yandisa
Published: August 2020

BackgroundEarly adolescence is an important period to lay the foundation for positive sexual health development that can overcome sexual and reproductive health challenges faced by very young adolescents (VYAs) as they reach puberty and sexual debut. We report on first-hand accounts of experiences of VYA girls who participated in girl-only clubs, and explore the club participation influence on their SRH knowledge to reduce the risk for HIV and negative sexual health outcomes. MethodsThis was a qualitative study in which twenty-three in-depth interviews were conducted with VYA girls aged 12-14 years. These girls were enrolled in girl-only clubs in two rural southern districts in Malawi. The clubs were a part of larger comprehensive HIV prevention project called DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe) which provided an evidence-based core package of interventions to VYAs to prevent HIV. Interventions included improved access to key health services, education support, social skills, asset building, and economic strengthening. Narrative inquiry was used to generate first-hand accounts of the girls’ experiences with club participation. A thematic analysis was used to generate themes from the transcribed stories. ResultsSix main themes were generated: 1) reasons for joining the clubs with desire to learn about SRH issues serving as the main motivation; 2) influence on gender norms and roles whereby participants described a change of gender roles and norms at home; 3) influence on child abuse practices whereby participants reported a decline in child abusive practices at home ;4) influence on life skills and social networks whereby participants described learning about networking; 5) influence of clubs on school attendance whereby out-of-school girls described how economic empowerment of their guardians facilitated their return to school; and 6) influence of clubs on SRH knowledge acquisition and behaviours whereby participants described acquiring knowledge on sexual health issues.Conclusion Girls-only HIV and SRH programs coupled with economic empowerment for their families can be effective in keeping VYA girls in school and improving SRH knowledge and health seeking behavior.
Feasibility of Single-Incision Clipless Laparoscopic Total Colectomy for intractable slow transit constipation
Authors: Kawahara Hidejiro , Omura Nobuo , Akiba Tadashi
Published: August 2020

Background: In 2014, we reported single-incision clipless laparoscopic total colectomy (SCLTC) with ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) as a type of reduced-port surgery for several benign diseases. Patients with intractable slow transit constipation (STC) have undergone SCLTC with IRA since it was introduced in our institution. However, the feasibility and usefulness of the surgical procedure for patients with intractable STC has not been elucidated.Methods: From January 2011 to December 2018, twenty-two patients with intractable STC underwent SCLTC with IRA at Kashiwa Hospital, Jikei University, were retrospectively registered in this study. We compared the first 12 consecutive patients undergoing the double stapling technique (DST) with IRA (DST group) with the last 10 consecutive patients undergoing functional end-to-end anastomosis (FEEA) with IRA (FEEA group).Results: The mean surgical time was 200.2 (150-249) min for the FEEA group and 230.7 (180-266) min for the DST group. A significant difference was identified between the two groups (0.035). There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to the mean age, sex, constipation type, intraoperative blood loss, or postoperative hospital stay. No postoperative complications were encountered in either group.Conclusion: Although SCLTC cannot be easily introduced for intractable STC, SCLTC with IRA using FEEA is feasible and safe.
Is Activity Changes of the DMN an Indicator of Women's Depression After Breast Cancer Surgery?
Authors: Huang Jinwen , Zhang Luping , Gao Xiufei , Zhu Xiangzhen , Zhang Fan , Song Wenwen , Xu Maosheng , Cao Zhijian
Published: August 2020

ObjectiveTo investigate the correlation between changes of the brain’s default mode network (DMN) activity and clinical scale scores in patients with depression after breast cancer surgery using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) based on the amplitude of low frequency fluctuations (ALFF) and the regional homogeneity (ReHo), to explore whether activity changes of the DMN can be an indicator of women’s depression after breast cancer surgery.MethodsThe institutional Ethics Committee has approved this prospective study. Twenty-three patients were followed after breast cancer surgery, including 12 cases with postoperative depression and 11 cases without depression. All patients underwent rs-fMRI. The ALFF and ReHo values were obtained and converted to Z values for statistical analysis. Pearson and Spearman correlation analysis were performed to correlate the clinical scale scores with ALFF value and ReHo value. A two sample T-test was conducted for ALFF and ReHo values of patients in two groups.ResultsThe ALFF value of the right precuneus was negatively correlated with the Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA) score (r = -0.43, P < 0.05). The full-scale attention quotient (FSAQ) score was positively correlated with the ALFF value of the left angular gyrus (r = 0.44, P < 0.05) and the right supramarginal gyrus (r = 0.50, P < 0.05). The ReHo value of the right angular gyrus was positively correlated with self-rating depression scale (SDS) score (r = 0.45, P < 0.05) and HAMA score (r = 0.49, P < 0.05). There were significant correlations between the clinical scale scores and the ALFF values and ReHo values of the DMN regions in patients after breast cancer surgery, but no statistical difference in ALFF and ReHo values between patients with and without depression after breast cancer surgery.ConclusionsActivity changes of the DMN in patients were closely related to the attention deficit in depressive disorder and anxiety in patients who had recently undergone breast cancer surgery. Meanwhile, the change of neuronal synchronization in the right angular gyrus may be closely associated with the pathophysiology of anxiety. Rs-fMRI can help to better detect and evaluate depression in patients after breast cancer surgery.
Farmer knowledge and perceptions of agrochemicals use on honeybee community and honey production in Benin
Authors: Dassou Anicet Gbèblonoudo , Anagonou Corinne , Vohouhe Senan , Edikou Aristide Adjai , Tovignan Silvère , Dassou Barres , Bodjrenou Delphine , Kindomihou Valentin , Afouda Léonard , Vodouhe Simplice Davo
Published: August 2020

Background

Apiculture faces many constraints including the use of agrochemicals. Chronic exposure to chemical pesticide use results in the loss of honeybee colonies and alters detoxification mechanisms and immune responses, driving them more susceptible to parasites. This study aims at investigating the impact of agrochemical use on honeybee community and honey production in northern Benin.
Methods

For this purpose, 100 beekeepers were surveyed using a survey questionnaire. Information on treated crops, the distance of beehives from these crops, the effect of insecticides and herbicides, adaptation patterns and honey production were collected through individual interviews. Socio-demographic data and farmer’s knowledge on agrochemical uses and their impacts on honeybee communities were determined. Information were also collected on alternative methods to agrochemicals, beehive types and honey taste.
Results

Apicultural investigations have shown that chemical pesticides were applied in fields of crops and that beehives were mostly located near treated fields. The most used chemical pesticides were Kalach (glyphosate), Callifor G (glyphosate, fluometuron, prometyn), Atrazila 80 wp (atrazin), Herbextra (glyphosate) and Cotonix (deltamethrin and chlorpyriphos). The majority of beekeepers (79%) recognize the effect of pesticides and use alternatives to pesticides to reduce the risk. In general, 49% of beekeepers found the decrease in the big breed of bees and 40% that of the small breed. The honey production was higher when the beehives were installed far from the treated fields.
Conclusion and implications:

This study allowed to knowing the direct and indirect effects of the agrochemical use on beekeeping. Alternative pest management methods to the pesticide use practiced by farmers would lead to sustainable improvements of honey production in Benin.
The Impact of a Local Ordinance on the Availability of Cultural Foods in Convenience Stores and Non-traditional Food Stores
Authors: Hearst Mary , Yang Jade , Friedrichsen Samantha , Lenk Kathleen , Caspi Caitlin , laska Melissa
Published: August 2020

Background: Limited access to culturally preferred foods serves as a barrier to healthy diet consumption among vulnerable populations, including low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. Large supermarkets are often unavailable, leaving greater access to convenience and non-traditional stores in these areas. In 2015, the Minneapolis Staple Foods Ordinance was enforced and required food stores to meet a minimum stocking for a variety of healthy foods/beverages. The purpose of this study is to assess the ordinance impact on the availability of culturally preferred foods in corner and non-traditional food stores located in immigrant populations of color and African American neighborhoods. Methods: The present analysis was conducted using data from the STORE (Staple foods Ordinance Evaluation) study. Culturally preferred foods were identified from a list of food items in the parent study and used to assess changes in availability in stores between neighboring cities, Minneapolis (ordinance) and Saint Paul (control), Minnesota, U.S.A.. A subset of 60 stores from Minneapolis (n = 31) and Saint Paul (n = 29) were used for the final analysis. The analysis included stores located in one of the four identified communities of color, where 20% of the census tract population classified as either Black/African American, Latinx, Asian, or East African. Changes in cultural food availability were analyzed at pre-ordinance and 12 months post-enforcement time points using SAS, including descriptive statistics and generalized linear mixed models. Results: In Minneapolis, 80.7% of stores had at least one culturally relevant food available pre-ordinance, compared to 90.3% post-ordinance, a difference that was not statistically different. Stores did not have a great variety of culturally relevant foods pre- or post-ordinance, and overall findings show no significant changes over time and/ or between Minneapolis and St. Paul. There was a 23% increase in availability of cultural food items from pre to post ordinance for corporate-owned stores, though this change was not statistically significant, and no change for independently owned stores. Conclusions: The presence of cultural foods did not significantly increase with local ordinance implementation. Further interventions may be needed to address cultural food availability and variety in small, independent stores near lower-income areas and communities of color. Trial registration: NCT02774330
A Study of the Quality of Work Life Among Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in National Guard Health Affairs Hospitals in KSA
Authors: Almugren Ghadah , Zedan Haya
Published: August 2020

Quality of Work Life (QWL) is a multi-dimensional discipline concerned with the quality of life at the workplace. Objectives: This work aimed to assess the level of QWL of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (MRITs) at National Guard Health Affairs Hospitals (NGHA) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and identify the correlation between QWL dimensions and Job and Career Satisfaction (JCS). Methodology: This study used the 32-item WRQoL-2 tool, a questionnaire consisting of 6 subscales; Job and Career Satisfaction (JCS), Control at Work (CAW), Home-Work Interface (HWI), General Well-Being (GWB), Stress at Work (SAW) and Work Conditions (WCS). Results: The study respondents were 57 MRITs working in NGHA hospitals across KSA with a 100% response rate. We found a high level of QWL among MRITs (66.2%, 3.31/5). The level of JCS was high (71.6%, 3.59/5) with a significant correlation between JCS and WCS, CAW, HWI, and GWB. There was an inverse relationship between SAW and JCS. Conclusion: Further research in the field of QWL is needed to diagnose shortcomings affecting the quality of healthcare services in KSA.
Phytochromes B1/B2 Are Major Regulators of Ripening-associated Epigenome Reprogramming in Tomato Fruits
Authors: Bianchetti Ricardo , Bellora Nicolas , Haro Luis de , Zuccarelli Rafael , Rosado Daniele , Freschi Luciano , Rossi Magdalena , Bermudez Luisa
Published: August 2020

Phytochrome-mediated light and temperature perception has been shown to be a major regulator of fruit development. Furthermore, chromatin remodelling via DNA demethylation has been described as a crucial mechanism behind the fruit ripening process; however, the molecular basis underlying the triggering of this epigenetic modification remains largely unknown. Here, through integrative analyses of the methylome, siRNAome and transcriptome of tomato fruits from phyA and phyB1B2 null mutants, we report that PHYB1 and PHYB2 control genome-wide DNA methylation during fruit development. The experimental evidence indicates that PHYB1B2 signal transduction is mediated by the coordinated expression of DNA methylases/demethylases, histone-modifying enzymes and chromatin remodelling factors, resulting in the transcriptional regulation of photosynthetic and ripening-associated genes. This new level of understanding provides insights into the orchestration of epigenetic mechanisms in response to environmental cues affecting agronomical traits.
Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure Combined With Cold Coagulation for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Adenocarcinoma In-Situ: A Feasible Treatment With a Low Risk of Residual/Recurrent Disease
Authors: Yang Eun Jung , Kim Nae Ry , Choi Ji Yeon , Kim Wook Youn , Lee Sun Joo
Published: August 2020

Objective: This study was performed to evaluate the significance of positive resection margins (RMs) with the loop electrosurgical excision procedure combined with cold coagulation (LEEP with CC) as a definitive treatment for patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and adenocarcinoma in-situ. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 467 patients who underwent LEEP with CC. A right-angled triangular loop in a single pass followed by a CC (120°C) to the cone bed for 10 to 20 seconds was used. Pathology reports and clinical data were obtained and evaluated. Results: Histopathology evaluation of LEEP tissue samples revealed the presence of CIN 1 in 69, CIN 2/3 in 366, AIS in 5 and invasive carcinoma in 16 (microinvasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and invasive SCC, 13 and 3) patients. Margins were positive in 66 (14.5%) cases: 0 in CIN 1, 54 in CIN 2/3 (12.4%), 1 in AIS (20.0%) and 11 in microinvasive/invasive SCC (68.8%). Although 54 CIN2/3 patients with positive RMs did not undergo additional treatment, 1 of these (1.9%) was confirmed to have residual CIN3 at the first follow-up. Two of 8 (25.0%) microinvasive SCC patients with positive RMs were confirmed to have residual diseases (1 microinvasive SCC and 1 invasive SCC) after hysterectomy. Four out of 360 (1 positive RM, 3 negative RM) CIN cases recurred during the study period. Conclusions: These results suggest that CIN patients with positive RMs after LEEP with CC may be followed up without additional treatment.
Effect of nutrition education on dietary diversity score of type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Mutagwanya Robert , Nyago Christine Magala , Nakwagala Fredrick Nelson
Published: August 2020

Background: Consumption of a varied diet reduces the risk of developing a deficiency or excess of any one nutrient. One of the three corner stones of diabetes management is diet and therefore, dietary diversity is key among diabetes patients. Objective: The objective of this study was to establish the impact of nutrition education on the dietary diversity scores (DDS) among type 2 diabetes patients. Methods: Kant et al method was used for scoring dietary diversity. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS version 21). Pair sample t-test was used to compare total DDS after and before nutrition education. P< 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.Subjects: One hundred type 2 diabetic patients were randomly selected and divided into two groups of intervention and control (50 patients in each group) to participate in the study. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire before and after intervention every after one month for a period of four months of intervention.Results: The average age of patients who participated in the study was 48 (40–51) years. Most of the patients were females (65.39%), compared to males (34.01%). At the end of the study period of four months, DDS in the control group decreased from 40.08% to 38.49% (p=0.064) while in the intervention group, DDS increased from 35.30 % to 54.20% (p<0.001). Conclusion: Dietary diversity increased after nutrition education among type 2 diabetes patients.Trial registration: The study was registered and approved on 17th April 2013 by the Research and Ethics committee of Mulago Hospital and Institutional Review Board of Mulago hospital (Protocol MREC 113).
Malnutrition Accelerates Colorectal Cancer Progression through Macrophage Activated by B Cells Immune via Gut Microbiota
Authors: Chao Xu , Dechuan Li , Ziwei Wang , Yan Wang , Lu Xu , Haitao Chen , Bo Zhang , Runzhe Zhang , Haixing Ju , Qinghua Yao
Published: August 2020

Background: Malnutrition threatened the clinical outcomes of colorectal cancer (CRC) by reducing patients’ responses to anti-cancer treatments and ultimately shortening thesurvival time. Recently malnutrition has been confirmed to play an important role in CRC progress via gut microbiota. However, roles of gut microbiota in the immunopathogenesis of malnutrition and its underlying mechanisms remain inconclusive. Methods: Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) was performed to determine the nutrition status in colon cancer patients. 16srRNA sequencing was prepared to explore the dramatic variation of the fecal microbiota among patients with different nutrition status. Fecal microbiota transplantation was used to transplant into C57BL/6J mice model and DSS/AOM mice model. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were applied to test the CD makers. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting was also prepared to explore the B cells and macrophage from serum and tissues. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and qPCR were used to determine the expression level of cytokines.Results: In this work, we found the specific microbiota species including Atopobium.vaginae, Selenomonas.sputigena and Faecalibacterium.prausnitzii, which may be considered as the diagnostic biomarkers to help improve poor prognosis in CRC. These microbiota were found to be protumorigenic and adversely affect the nutritional status and overall survival of the animal models. More importantly, our evidence suggesting that these fecal microbiota recruited B cells and macrophage to activate the specific tumor immune in CRC. Depletion of B cells significantly suppressed fecal microbiota induced-M2b polarization, as well as the protumorigenic activity of tumor-associated macrophages in vivo.Conclusion: gut microbiome in CRC under malnutrition status could upregulate the activity of B cells and protumorigenic macrophage in CRC. Gut microbiome intervention could be a feasible approach to malnutrition-related CRC treatment.
Co-expression of IL-7 and PH20 Promote anti-GPC3 CAR-T Tumor Suppressor Activity in Vivo and in Vitro
Authors: Liu Qian , Wang Cixiao , Jiang Zeyou , Yue Su-yang
Published: August 2020

While CAR-T therapy has successfully treated hematological malignancies, it has proved sub-optimal for solid tumors. The main limitation is the inability of CAR-T cells to infiltrate and then proliferate within tumors. In this study, we co-expressed IL-7 and PH20, a type of hyaluronidase, with CAR targeting GPC3 (G3CAR-7×20) to address these issues. We found (G3CAR-7×20) exhibited better proliferation in vivo and in vitro than G3CAR, reduced the level of apoptosis after stimulation by tumor cells, and maintained the memory phenotype of CAR-T cells. G3CAR-7×20 also increased the ability of CAR-T cells to infiltrate tumor tissue. G3CAR-7×20 may significantly enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cells in solid tumors.
Institutional Delivery Predisposes to Neonatal Sepsis and Its Associated Factors Among Neonates Admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Central Gondar Zone Primary Hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2019.
Authors: Agnche Zelalem , Yeshita Hedja Yenus , Gonete Kedir Abdela
Published: August 2020

Background: Neonatal sepsis contributes substantially to neonatal morbidity and mortality and is an ongoing major global public health challenge particularly in developing countries. Studies conducted on proportion and risk factors of neonatal sepsis in Ethiopia are from referral hospital which may not be generalized to primary health care units where a significant proportion of mothers give birth in these health facilities. This study sought to determine the proportion of clinical neonatal sepsis and associated factors in the study areas.Methods: Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2019, in Amhara regional state, central Gondar zone public primary hospitals in Ethiopia. A total of 352 subjects (mother-neonate pairs ) were selected using systematic random sampling technique and pre-tested and structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was fitted to identify factors associated with neonatal sepsis. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with the corresponding 95% confidence Interval (CI) was used to show the strength of associations and variables with p-values of <0.05 were considered as statistically significant.Results: The overall proportion of neonatal sepsis was 64.8 %( 95% CI (59.2, 69.2). Being male neonate(AOR=3.7; 95% CI(1.76,7.89)), history of urinary tract infections during the index pregnancy(AOR =6,26; 95% CI (1.16,33.62)), frequency of per-vaginal examination greater than three during labor and delivery(AOR=6.06; 95% CI((2.45,14.99)), neonatal resuscitation at birth (AOR=6.1; 95% CI (1.71,21.84)), place of delivery at the health center(AOR=3.05; 95% CI(1.19,7.79)), lack of training of health workers on neonatal resuscitation and infection prevention practices (AOR=2.14; 95% CI (1.04,4.44)), late age of neonate at onset of illness(AOR=0.05; 95% CI(0.01, 0.21)) and maternal age of 30-34 years (AOR=0.19; 95% CI(.047, 0.81)) were significantly associated with neonatal sepsis.Conclusion: The proportion of neonatal sepsis is high. Maternal, neonatal and health service related factors were identified for neonatal sepsis. Therefore; training of health workers, provision of health care services as per standards and monitoring and evaluation of obstetrical/neonatal cares during labor and delivery are mandatory.
Group-Adapted ad Libitum Feeding vs. Conventional Restrictive Feeding: Impact on Health, Behavior, and Reproductive Performance of Group-Housed Pregnant Sows
Authors: Angermann Eva , Wensch-Dorendorf Monika , Frenking Stephanie , Kemper Nicole , Borell Eberhard von
Published: August 2020

BackgroundCommon feeding systems for pregnant group-housed sows meet the nutritional demand but do not sufficiently consider their natural feeding behavior. A new group-adapted ad libitum feeding system called “SWOF” (Hölscher + Leuschner GmbH & Co. KG®, Emsbüren, Germany) was developed to ensure that both optimal nutritional and behavioral needs are met. This feeding system comprises an activity and lying area and two areas with ad libitum liquid feeding on the basis of whole plant wheat silage. Passing through a sorting gate, sows could be given either a low- or high-energy diet according to their weight and parity. The study’s aim was to investigate the effects of this new system on sows’ body weight, health status (lameness), aggression parameters (integument injuries, vulva injuries, displacements at the trough), feed intake rhythm, and litter performance, and to compare these with restrictively fed group-housed sows, which is the common standard in Germany. ResultsIn the group-adapted ad libitum feeding system, significantly less risk for displacements at the trough and vulva injuries were observed, and sows followed their natural biphasic feed intake rhythm. This system also resulted in lower body weight and more integument injuries than the restrictively fed group-housed sows. However, these might be due to different management practices and group size between the two systems. No influence of the feeding system was observed, neither on lameness nor litter performance. ConclusionThe data reported here show the promising effects of the group-adapted ad libitum “SWOF” feeding system with regard to animal welfare, as sows can freely choose when and how much feed they want to consume without taking the risk of over conditioning. The “SWOF” feeding system remains to be further validated, also considering the group size and management practices.
Wild Edible Fruits of Arunachal Pradesh, India: Ethno-Medicinal Uses, Socio Economic Importance and Role in Rural Economy and Livelihood Security
Authors: Hazarika Tridip , Tayeng Basik
Published: August 2020

Background Forests inhibits a large number of trees, shrubs, herbs, climbers, wealth of non-timber forest products and a good number of wild edible fruits plants. These wild edible fruits are an indispensable constituent of human and rich in vitamin, minerals, fibre, antioxidants and compounds of nutritional importance such as alkaloids, essential oils and phenolic etc. Many of them are also very good source of ethno-medicines. But, the knowledge of valuable heritage of these fruits is orally handed over from one generation to other generation years after year. Nevertheless, the folk and ethno-medicinal values of these fruits are still playing a great role in treatment of diseases but now the traditional knowledge are disappearing and losing their intrinsic values. The present study was undertaken to document wild edible fruits of Arunachal Pradesh, India, and to study the socio-economic importance of these fruits among the people of the district.Methods Extensive field surveys, plant collection, herbarium preparations and personal interviews with the traditional healers as well as local people from rural villages were conducted for this study. Altogether 50 wild edible fruits belonging to 31 families having medicinal and socio economic significance were reported in this study. Results Among the different families, Moraceae and Rutaceae were the dominant with 5 species, followed by Phyllanthaceae, Anacardiaceae and Rosaceae, Arecaceae, Fabaceae, Lauraceae, Primulaceae and Fagaceae. In terms of parts used, the highest used was leaves (35.58 %), followed by fruits and bark (21.51%), root (10.73 %), seed (7.53 %), latex (2.15%) and shoot (1.07%). Therapeutically, the reported wild edible fruits are used against 14 classes of diseases viz. gastrointestinal, dermatological, cardiovascular, respiratory, urogenital, ENT, Anti-venom/ insect bite, snakebite, mental and nervous disorders, minor ailments, bone disease, food poison, jaundice, cancers and allergy. They have a number of uses in the rural economy like constructional timbers, firewood, charcoal, fodder, fish poisoning, dyes, oils etc.Conclusions Although, these fruits plays an important role in the social and cultural life of the tribal people of Arunachal Pradesh, India, but this valuable species has been vanishing at a very faster rate without proper documentation. Therefore, the claimed therapeutic values of these species are to be critically studied and conserve these valuable species before their extinction.
Low-frequency and rare coding variants of NUS1 contribute to pathogenesis and phenotype of Parkinson’s disease: a case-control study
Authors: Jiang Li , Mei Jun-pu , Zhao Yu-wen , Zhang Rui , Pan Hong-xu , Yang Yang , Sun Qi-ying , Xu Qian , Yan Xin-xiang , Tan Jie-qiong , Li Jin-chen , Tang Bei-sha , Guo Jifeng
Published: August 2020

Background

NUS1 has recently been identified as a candidate risk gene for Parkinson’s disease (PD), but the contribution of NUS1 rare and low-frequency variants to PD susceptibility and phenotypes is largely unknown.

Methods

In our case-control study, whole-exome or Sanger sequencing was performed on the subjects (4,779 cases vs. 4,442 controls) to analyze the coding sequence of NUS1 . The associations between variants and phenotypic data were analyzed using sequence kernel association test and regression models.

Results

A total of 13 variants were identified. Ten of them in 12 patients and one control were rare variants and three were low-frequency variants. Three rare variants (R86L, N144K, D163H) might be pathogenic. We identified a significant burden of rare NUS1 variants in PD (adjusted P=0.016). Two low-frequency variants, rs550854234 and rs539668656, were associated with PD (odds ratio = 0.76, adjusted P = 0.041; odds ratio = 2.80, adjusted P = 0.016; respectively). Analyses stratified by age at onset showed that the same two variants were associated with late-onset PD (odds ratio = 0.66, adjusted P = 0.025; odds ratio = 2.96, adjusted P = 0.025; respectively). The genotype-phenotype associations of these variants showed that patients with PD carrying rare variants, rs550854234 or rs539668656 were significantly associated with earlier onset age, emotional impairment and tremor severity.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that rare and low-frequency NUS1 variants play an important role in the pathogenesis and phenotype of PD. Moreover, our data will help understand the role of NUS1 plays in the pathogenesis of PD and further the development of personalized treatments for PD.
A boy with refractory cyanosis: pediatric pulmonary arteriovenous malformation case report and literature review
Authors: Sheng Chuqiao , Yang Chunfeng , Ao Yu , LI Yumei
Published: August 2020

Background: Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation is rare and is defined as the presence of an abnormal connection between the pulmonary artery and vein. Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation can manifest with no obvious clinical symptoms and is only found incidentally on pulmonary imaging examinations. The clinical signs vary according to the shunt flow in proportion to the malformation area. In severe cases, symptoms such as exertional dyspnea, cyanosis, hemoptysis or even sudden death can occur. Untreated pulmonary arteriovenous malformation may result in cardiac failure or rupture of the aneurysmal fistula.Case presentation: We report the case of a 1-year-old boy who presented with refractory cyanosis and a transcutaneous oxygen saturation level of 70-76%.Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation was detected on computed tomography angiogram. We chose surgical resection of the diseased lung as the treatment. The boy had a good prognosis and was followed up for 3 months without recurrence. The analysis of this case and a review of the literature improved our understanding of pulmonary arteriovenous malformation.Conclusion: Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation should be considered when unexplained conditions such as hypoxia and hemoptysis are encountered or when pulmonary arteriovenous malformation-like mass changes are visible on chest imaging. The early identification of the problem, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up are helpful for reducing trauma and for improving the long-term outcome of children with pulmonary arteriovenous malformation.
Transitioning To Digital First Line Intervention – Validation Of A Brief Online Screener For Early Identification of A Suspected Eating Disorder: Study Protocol
Authors: Bryant Emma , Miskovic-Wheatley Jane , Touyz Stephen , Crosby Ross D , Koreshe Eyza , Cao Li , Maguire Sarah
Published: August 2020

Background: Only one in four people with Eating Disorders (ED) seeks treatment, and of those who do seek treatment, 20% go on to experience a chronic course. Early intervention has been associated with better prognosis, with those seeking specialised intervention in the early stages of their illness more than twice as likely to achieve remission. Current screening measures typically require expert administration and are rarely validated across a spectrum of DSM-5 eating disorder presentations or for online use. In light of COVID-19 and increasing reliance on telehealth technologies in the intervention and delivery of mental health services, online assessments suitable for self-referral are likely to be the first step to seeking care. InsideOut Institute has developed a 6-item online screening tool for the purposes of identifying eating disorder risk and symptomatology, aimed specifically at increasing help-seeking behaviour in subsyndromal and early presentations. Methods: This study investigates the reliability and validity of the InsideOut Institute Screener (IOI-S), using a cross-sectional survey research design. Participants aged 14 and over will complete a baseline survey battery consisting of the EDE-Q, the SCOFF questionnaire, the IOI-S and either the MC-SDS (adults) or CSD-S (adolescents) for evaluation. 30% of participants will be randomly selected for one follow-up re-test of the IOI-S only, two weeks post initial testing. The IOI-S will be analysed for statistical reliability on two parameters: internal consistency and test re-test reliability, and for statistical validity on four parameters: concurrent validity, sensitivity and specificity, convergent and discriminant validity. Discussion: The rapid and ongoing shift to digital intervention has highlighted gaps and opportunities in our pathways to care. Adequate screening for eating disorders is a major gap. This study aims to validate an online screening tool for use in telehealth early intervention, designed for users seeking information for a suspected eating disorder. The screener meets those at risk ‘where they are’ (i.e. online) and may improve timely referrals to relevant services. This is of particular salience as face-to-face healthcare and traditional frontline interventions are disrupted, and we are challenged to re-design our practices to deliver diagnostic and treatment services in highly adaptive digital contexts.Trial registration: N/A
The effect of conscious disorder on the 30-day mortality of sepsis
Authors: Yang Yang , Liang Shengru , Wang Qiuhe , Guo Kai , Wan Haiping , Kang Enming , Li Rong , Zhao Yongbo , Li Lihong
Published: August 2020

Background

Conscious impairment is related to worse prognosis in patients with sepsis. we aimed to evaluate the impact of conscious disorder on the 30-day mortality of patients with sepsis and identify the remediable risk factors for it.
Methods

Data were retrospectively retrieved from a prospective intensive care database. Conscious disorder was assessed by the Glasgow Coma Score (GCS). The impact of conscious dysfunction on the 30-day mortality of sepsis and its potentially modifiable risk factors were evaluated using Cox proportional hazard regression and logistic regression, respectively.
Results

A total of 4446 patients with sepsis were included in the study and conscious disorder (GCS < 15) was observed in 2126 (47.8%) patients. The results of Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that GCS ≤ 12 contributed to the increased 30-day mortality of patients with sepsis and was an independent risk factor for it. Considering the clinical risks and benefits, the results of logistic regression showed that hypertension (systolic pressure ≥ 140 mmHg), hypernatremia (serum sodium ≥ 145 K/uL), the utility of cephalosporin and urinary infection are the potentially remediable risk factors for patients with sepsis characterized by GCS ≤ 12.
Conclusion

Moderate impairment of consciousness (GCS 9–12) and coma (GCS 3–8) were independently related to the 30-day mortality of sepsis. Potentially remediable risk factors for patients with sepsis characterized by GCS ≤ 12 at ICU admission were hypertension, hypernatremia, cephalosporin adoption and urinary infection. Further studies are needed to investigate the causal relationship between medical interventions towards these risk factors and the incidence of moderate impairment of consciousness and coma in patients with sepsis.
miR-9-1 Is a New Circulating Biomarker for Higher-grade Meningioma Regulated via the EGFR-FOS Network
Authors: Baiz Daniele , Negroni Caterina , Ferluga Sara , Ercolano Emanuela , Adams Claire L , Sofela Agbolahan , Hilton David A , Kurian Kathreena M , Hanemann C Oliver
Published: August 2020

Background: Meningiomas are the most common primary CNS tumors. According to the World Health Organization Classification (WHO), they are classified as benign (grade I), atypical (grade II), and anaplastic/malignant (grade III). Chemotherapy has proven ineffective in treating these tumors, which are primarily managed by surgery, radiotherapy, or a combination of them. Morbidity and mortality correlate with meningioma grade. Currently, risk assessment for treatment is based on the radiological assessment of tumor size, tumor growth rate, and/or clinical progression of symptoms. Methods: We performed a cancer miRNA array in an in vitro model of meningioma in order to identify circulating biomarkers in meningioma patients. We validated the miRNA biomarker candidate in cells and tissues and analyzed its regulation. We then investigated expression in tissues and blood. Results: We identified miR-9-1 as significantly overexpressed in atypical and anaplastic cells compared to benign. We further demonstrated that miR-9-1 overexpression is due to increased levels of FOS via upregulation of the EGFR receptor, and showed that miR-9-1 and FOS are upregulated in a cohort of higher-grade meningioma biopsies. Next, we isolated circulating exosomes from meningioma patients’ serum samples, and found higher levels of miR-9-1 in higher-grade compared to low-grade meningiomas patients. Conclusions: Overall, our study shows overexpression and the mechanism of miR-9-1 regulation and suggests miR-9-1 as a novel circulating biomarker candidate to identify tumor grade in meningioma.