bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Up-regulation of BTLA expression in myeloid dendritic cells in neonatal sepsis associated with the treatment outcome and down-regulation of DC function
Authors: Wang Wandang , Yang Xuran , Guo Mingfa , Pan Zhifeng , Qiu Mingjin , Wu Jingyi , Jia Jing , Liang Yingliang , Zheng Wenting , Chen Guanghui
Published: March 2020

Background: Neonatal sepsis is an acute life-threatening condition in neonates, and a proper innate inflammatory is essential for prevention of the systemic inflammation associated with sepsis. As the most potential antigen-presenting innate immune cells, dentritic cells (DCs) dysfunction has been verified detrimental for sepsis. B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) is an immune-regulatory receptor shown to be associated with DCs dysfunction. However, the role of BTLA expression in myeloid DCs (mDCs) in neonatal sepsis is unknown. Methods: 61 of neonates with sepsis and 32 of neonates having no suspicion of sepsis as control were enrolled into this study. BTLA and HLA-DR expression in mDCs was measured by flow cytometry. To further study the role of BTLA in regulating mDCs function, BTLA+mDCs and BTLA-mDCs from septic neonates were sorted and utilized to evaluate the phagacytosis capacity, bactericidal ability as well as cytokine secretion of mDCs.Results: A higher percentage of BTLA+mDCs were observed in neonatal septic patients and the percentage was positively correlated to the duration of hospitalization of neonates as well as the severity of sepsis. Moreover, a decrease MFI expression of HLA-DR was found in mDCs in neonatal sepsis, which expression was negatively correlated with the percentage of BTLA+mDCs. When compared to BTLA-mDCs, sorted BTLA+mDCs exhibited lower FITC-dextran uptake capacity but more CFU E.coli number after cells challenged by E.coli. In addition, BTLA+mDCs comparatively secreted lower level of TNF-α and IL-12, but higher IL-10. Conclusions: A higher level of BTLA in mDCs in the observed septic neonates was associated to the severity of neonatal sepsis; therefore, BTLA expression in mDCs could be a useful biomarker help to determine the neonatal sepsis development. Additionally, BTLA negatively regulated the phagocytosis capacity and bactericidal ability of mDCs and lowered their antigen-presenting ability as well as altered cells into an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Thus, targeting BTLA in mDCs may be a new therapeutic strategy for neonatal sepsis.
Determination of 650nm wavelength for rapid detection of sickle cell anemia
Authors: Jadah Noor , Shamkhi Imad
Published: March 2020

Background Sickle cell anemia (SCA), is a type of inherited hemoglobin diseases, It is resulting from point mutation in the β-hemoglobin gene, that resulted from replacement of adenine with thymine, producing a phenotype of sickle hemoglobin (HbS). This paper represents a first try of hemo-photodiagnosis for such disorders using single wavelength, that absorbed by normal blood, so that any change in absorbance value interprets as pathological disorders of hemoglobin. Methods The proposed photobiosensor was designed according to Beer-Lamberts law. The system was involved diode laser of 650nm wavelength, with 100 mW output power, where the laser beam passed through a cuvette of blood sample, and then transmitted light emite to an optical lens to focus transmitted laser beam in to 2mm in diameter of laser spot size on optical sensor window of laser power meter detector that measure the amount of transmitted light in volts. Results The readings that displayed on LCD of laser power meter, had been analyzed using compare means values and ANOVA table of SPSS program. Conclusion The main conclusion that photobiosensor design was able to distinguish between experimental blood groups with respect to hemoglobin pathological conditions.
Efficient production of myo-inositol in Escherichia coli through metabolic engineering
Authors: You Ran , Wang Lei , Shi Congrong , Chen Hao , Zhang Shasha , Hu Meirong , Tao Yong
Published: March 2020

Background The biosynthesis of high value-added compounds through metabolically engineered strains has received widely attention in recent years. As an effective compound in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industry, myo-inositol (inositol) is mainly produced via a harsh set of chemical reactions from phytate. The proper distribution of carbon flux between cell growth and inositol production was a major challenge for constructing an efficient inositol-synthetic pathway. Recombinant E. coli strains have been constructed by metabolic engineering strategies to produce inositol, yet with a low yield. Therefore, construction of E. coli metabolically engineered strains with high stoichiometric yield will be attractive. Results In the present study, the recombinant E. coli strains with high stoichiometric yield (> 0.7 mol inositol/mol glucose) were obtained to efficiently synthesize inositol. Inositol was successfully biosynthesized after introducing two crucial enzymes, inositol-3-phosphate synthase (IPS) from Trypanosoma brucei , and inositol monophosphatase (IMP) from E. coli. Based on starting strains E. coli BW25113 (wild type) and SG104 ( ΔptsG::glk , ΔgalR::zglf , ΔpoxB::acs ), a series of engineered strains for inositol production were constructed by deleting the key genes pgi, pfkA or pykF . Furthermore, the plasmid expression systems of IPS and IMP were optimized, and the gene zwf was regulated to enhance stoichiometric yield. The highest stoichiometric yield (0.96 mol inositol/mol glucose) was achieved with the combined strain R15 of SG104, Δpgi , Δpgm , and RBSL5-zwf. Simultaneously, the engineered strain R04 reached high-density fermentation level in a 1-L fermenter by using glucose and glycerol as mixed carbon source. In the scale-up bioconversion in situ with R04, 0.82 mol inositol/mol glucose was produced by fed-batch within 23 h, corresponding to a titer of 106.3 g/L (590.5 mM). Conclusions The biosynthetic pathway of inositol from glucose in recombinant E. coli was optimized by metabolic engineering strategies. The metabolically engineered E. coli strains represent a promising method for future inositol production. This study provided an essential reference to obtain a suitable distribution of carbon flux between glycolysis pathway and product synthetic pathway.
China’s Health Tourism and Marketing
Authors: Zhong Lina , Deng Baolin , Sun Sunny
Published: March 2020

Background: China has been recently considered as an essential component of the world health tourism market. Nevertheless, limited studies, if any, have focused on marketing China’s health tourism.Methods: Through the stratification sampling survey method, the present study collected 351 valid questionnaires.Results: The present study identified possible attributes and resources to market health destinations in China; and all the identified attributes were classified into four factors: basic services, health services, religious services, and social services.Conclusions: Safety was considered to be the top attribute of health destinations; and the most effective way to do marketing of health tourism in China is through events. Furthermore, travel pattern of health tourism is also identified.
Reaching the unreached: Effectiveness and Satisfaction with Community-Directed Distribution of Suphadoxine-Pyrimethamine for preventing Malaria in Pregnancy in rural South-East, Nigeria
Authors: Okedo-Alex Ijeoma Nkem , Akamike Ifeyinwa Chizoba , Alo Chihurumnanya , Agu Adaoha Pearl , Nzeh Chinyere Benedicta , Chinwendu Ndukwe Daniel , Okoro Odii Ogonna , Abateneh Dejene Derseh , Uneke Chigozie Jesse
Published: March 2020

Background Innovative community strategies to increase Intermittent Preventive Treatment with Suphadoxine-Pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) coverage is advocated particularly in rural areas, where health infrastructures are weakest and malaria transmission highest. This study was a proof-of-concept implementation research to determine satisfaction with and effectiveness of community-directed distribution of IPTp-SP on uptake among pregnant women in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.Methods This before-after study was carried out in 2019 in a rural community in Ebonyi State Nigeria. The intervention involved advocacy visits, community-wide sensitizations on malaria prevention, house to house directly observed IPTp-SP administration and follow-up visits by trained community-selected Community Directed Distributors (CDDs). Monthly coverage IPTp-SP coverage was assessed over five months using SPSS version 20.Results During the study, 229, 232, 217, 121 and 34 women received 1-5 IPT doses respectively. The uptake of ≥3 IPTp doses increased from 31.4% to 71.6% (P<0.001). Sleeping under Insecticide Treated Net (ITN) the night before the survey increased from 62.4% to 84.3% (P<0.001) while reporting of fever during pregnancy decreased from 64.9% to 17.0% (P<0.001). Although antenatal clinic utilization increased in the primary health center serving the community, traditional birth attendants and patent medicine vendors in the community remained more patronized. Post-intervention, most mothers rated CDD services well (93.6%), were satisfied (97.6%) and preferred community IPTp administration to facility administration (92.3%).Conclusions Community-directed distribution of IPTp-SP improved uptake of IPTp-SP and ITN use. Mothers were satisfied with the services. We recommend sustained large-scale implementation of community-directed distribution of IPTp with active community engagement.
An Ovarian Leydig Cell Tumour in a Postmenopausal Woman that was Missed on an Ultrasonogram: A Case Report
Authors: Zhu XiaoDan , You QiHan , Zhou LinYu , Jiang Jian , Jiang TianAn
Published: March 2020

Background:Ovarian Leydig cell tumour (OLCT) is a rare functioning ovarian sex cord-stromal tumour (OSCST) that can cause hyperandrogenism and virilization. Its clinical and imaging features are atypical, which leads to misdiagnosis, missed diagnosis, or overtreatment.Case presentation:We report a case of OLCT in a postmenopausal woman that was missed on transvaginal ultrasound (TVS). Both enhanced pelvic computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indicated a right adnexal space-occupying lesion.We present this missed-diagnosis case and review the literature on OLCT.Conclusions:When patients develop hyperandrogens, we should consider this rare disease in addition to more common causes. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) of the ovary could contribute to differential diagnosis when tiny tumours are not detected by imaging examinations or the diagnosis remains uncertain.
Cooperation between Caenorhabditis elegans COMPASS and condensin in germline chromatin organization
Authors: Herbette Marion , Robert Valérie , Bailly Aymeric , Gely Loïc , Feil Robert , Llères David , Palladino Francesca
Published: March 2020

Background Histone-modifying activities play important roles in gene expression and influence higher-order genome organization. SET1/COMPASS (Complex Proteins Associated with Set1) deposits h istone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methylation at promoter regions and is associated with context-dependent effects on gene expression. Whether it also contributes to higher-order chromosome organization has not been explored. Results Using a quantitative FRET (Förster resonance energy transfer)-based fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) approach to assay nanometer scale chromatin compaction in live animals, we reveal a novel role for SET1/COMPASS in structuring meiotic chromosomes in the C. elegans germline . Inactivation of SET-2, the C. elegans homologue of SET1, strongly enhanced chromosome organization defects and loss of fertility resulting from depletion of condensin-II, and aggravated defects in chromosome morphology resulting from inactivation of topoisomerase II, another major structural component of chromosomes. Loss of CFP-1, the chromatin targeting subunit of COMPASS, similarly affected germline chromatin compaction measured by FLIM-FRET and enhanced condensin-II knock-down phenotypes. Conclusions The data presented here are consistent with a role of SET1/ COMPASS in shaping meiotic chromosomes in the C. elegans germline. This new insight has important implications for how c hromatin-modifying complexes and histone modifications may cooperate with non histone-proteins to achieve proper chromosome organization, not only in meiosis, but also in mitosis.
Quality of life and its affecting factors among patients with multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study in northwest Iran
Authors: Gharibi Farid , Imani Ali , Khezri Ali , Joudiyan Nasrin , Dalal Koustuv
Published: March 2020

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the most important diseases due to its adverse clinical, social and economic consequences for affected people. Objectives: This study tried to assess the quality of life of the patients suffering from Multiple Sclerosis in East Azerbaijan. Methods: This cross-sectional study used the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQOL-54) questionnaire for interviewing 300 randomly selected MS patients in East Azarbaijan province, Iran. The independent T-test, ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test were used to examine the relationship between demographic variables and quality of life, and all analyses were performed using SPSS19. Results: The quality of life score among the MS patients is 48.22. The "life satisfaction" is the best and "physical role limitation" is the worst quality of life aspect. There were significant relationships between marital status, education level, employment status, age of symptoms onset and years of illness with quality of life (P<0.05). Conclusion: The quality of life of the MS patients in East Azarbaijan province is lower than other parts of Iran and much lower than OECD countries.
Association between probable posttraumatic stress disorder and quality of life in emergency service workers: a mediation analysis using a third potential model with both in parallel and in series effects; a cross-sectional study
Authors: Noda Yoshikazu , Asano Kenichi , Shimizu Eiji , Hirano Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2020

Background The present study used a third potential model with both in parallel and in series effects to identify mediators influencing the association between probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and quality of life (QOL). In addition, we sought to clarify how stress-coping behaviors influence components of QOL. Methods Participants were 220 emergency service workers. PTSD was assessed using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). QOL was assessed using the MOS 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Mediation analysis and moderated mediation analysis of interaction effects with a third potential model were used to examine the effects of stress-coping (Brief COPE scores), social support (Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support [MSPSS] scores), and resilience (Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale [CD-RISC] scores) on the association between probable PTSD and QOL. Results The mediation analysis with confounders suggested an acceptable model fit. The moderated mediation analysis did not indicate differences in the moderators. IES-R scores were significantly positively associated with Active coping, Venting, and Positive reframing in Brief COPE scores and were significantly negatively associated with MSPSS scores. Active coping, Venting, and Positive reframing in Brief COPE and MSPSS scores was significantly positively associated with CD-RISC scores, which were significantly positively associated with SF-36 scores. A sensitivity analysis comparing the results between the full information maximum likelihood method and the list-wise deletion method indicated that the 95% confidence interval included zero and a good model fit was not maintained for indices of coping strategies in Venting and Positive reframing in Brief COPE scores. Conclusions Active coping in response to stressful situations is an important behavior for maintaining good mental health among emergency service workers. In addition, Active coping in stress-coping and social support may have strengthened participants’ resilience, and resilience may have improved QOL. However, Positive reframing and Venting might have confounded the results because they exhibited a Not Missing At Random data distribution. Screening of mental health and QOL should include simultaneous assessment of stress-coping, social support, and resilience. Although the present findings are suggestive, because this was a cross-sectional study, causal relationships between PTSD and QOL mediated by three mediators could not be confirmed.
Global health systems partnerships: A mixed methods analysis of HPV vaccine delivery network actors in Mozambique
Authors: Soi Caroline , Shearer Jessica , Chilundo Baltazar , Muchanga Vasco , Matsinhe Luisa , Gimbel Sarah , Sherr Kenneth
Published: March 2020

Background Global health partnerships have expanded exponentially in the last two decades with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance considered the model’s pioneer and leader because of its vaccination programs’ implementation mechanism. Gavi, relies on diverse domestic and international partners to carry out its programs in low- and middle-income countries under a Partnership Engagement Framework (PEF). We harnessed an established partnership evaluation framework, to conduct an in-depth examination of Mozambique’s Gavi driven partnership network which delivered the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine during the demonstration phase.Methods We utilized mixed methods to assess five partnership dimensions. Qualitative tools gauged contextual factors, prerequisites, partner performance and practices while a social network analysis (SNA) survey measured the partnership structure and perceived added value in terms of effectiveness, efficiency and country ownership. The 40 key informants who were interviewed included frontline ministry of health workers, ministry of education staff and supporting partner organization members, of whom 34 participated in the social network analysis survey.Results SNA measures for partnership structure revealed a partnership network characterized by high overall connectivity. Reachability 100% and average distance 2.5 scores were high, features that are favorable for rapid and widespread diffusion of information that is needed for engaging and handling multiple implementation scales. High SNA effectiveness and efficiency measures for structural holes (85%) and low redundancy (30%) coupled with high mean perceived effectiveness (97.6%) and efficiency (79.5%) outcome scores were observed. Additionally, the tie strength average score of 4.1 on a scale of 5 denoted high professional trust. These are all markers of a partnership where disparate institutions and organizations worked in a collaborative environment in which each entity’s comparative advantage was leveraged. Lower perceived outcome scores for country ownership (24%) were found with the challenges of working with out-of-country partners being prominently cited by study participants as reasons.Conclusions While there is room for improvement on the country ownership aspects of the partnership, the expanded, diverse and inclusive collaboration of institutions and organizations that implemented the Mozambique HPV vaccine demonstration project was effective and efficient and we recommend that the country adapt a similar model during the national scale up.
The relationship between parents’ dietary care and food diversity among preschool children in Japan
Authors: Ishikawa Midori , Haraikawa Mayu , Eto Kumi , Yoshiike Nobuo , Yokoyama Tetsuji
Published: March 2020

Background Increasing food diversity in early childhood diets is important; however, few studies on parental care emphasize the necessity of ensuring greater food diversity for children. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between preschool children’s dietary diversity and parents’ care behaviors related to their diet including contents of foods and snacks, mealtime practice, and parent–child communication. Methods Data were extracted from the National Nutrition Survey on Preschool Children conducted among households with toddlers and preschoolers in 2015 by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. Based on 2143 responses from households with children aged 2–6 years, a food diversity score (8 food groups: max of 8 points) was calculated and the distribution was confirmed. The participants were divided into higher (≥4 points, n = 1151) and lower (≤3 points; n = 992) food diversity groups. A comparison between the two groups examined parents’ socioeconomic status, children’s health and living conditions, and parental care concerning children’s diets (13 items, including nutritional balance of foods, snack content, and regularity of mealtimes). Based on the results, a multiple regression analysis was performed relating food diversity scores to the factors of parental socioeconomic status and child health, and a logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors of parental care related to the higher food diversity group. Results Among the higher food diversity group, mothers were older, subjective economic status was higher, parents’ skipped breakfast skipping less, and children had fewer caries and engaged in less than two hours of screen time per day. Parental care concerning children’s diets was the factor most strongly associated with children’s food diversity scores. Among such habits, those factors most strongly associated with higher food diversity were nutritional balance of foods (OR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.44–2.16; p < .0001), snack contents (OR: 1.41; CI: 1.07–1.86; p = 0.014), and regular mealtimes (OR: 1.30; CI: 1.08–1.55; p = 0.005). Conclusion The findings indicate the importance of parents paying attention to the contents of children’s foods and snacks, ensuring that children eat regularly, and increasing the diversity of their diets.
Molecular-dynamics-simulation-guided membrane engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae by overexpression of plant FAE1 and GPAT5 genes increases fatty acid chain length in membrane lipids
Authors: Maertens Jeroen M , Scrima Simone , Lambrughi Matteo , Genheden Samuel , Trivellin Cecilia , Eriksson Leif A , Papaleo Elena , Olsson Lisbeth , Bettiga Maurizio
Published: March 2020

Background The use of lignocellulosic-based fermentation media will be a necessary part of the transition to a circular bio-economy. These media contain many inhibitors to microbial growth, including acetic acid. Under industrially relevant conditions, acetic acid enters the cell predominantly through passive diffusion across the plasma membrane. The lipid composition of the membrane determines the rate of uptake of acetic acid, and thicker, more rigid membranes impede passive diffusion. Results We hypothesized that the elongation of glycerophospholipid fatty acids would lead to thicker and more rigid membranes, reducing the influx of acetic acid. Molecular dynamics simulations were used to predict the changes in membrane properties. Overexpression of Arabidopsis thaliana genes FAE1 and GPAT5 increased the average fatty acid chain length. However, this did not lead to a reduction in the net uptake rate of acetic acid. Conclusions Despite successful strain engineering, the net uptake rate of acetic acid did not decrease. We suggest that changes in the relative abundance of certain membrane lipid headgroups could mitigate the effect of longer fatty acid chains, resulting in a higher net uptake rate of acetic acid.
Evaluation in broilers of aerosolized nanoparticles vaccine encapsulating imuno-stimulant and antigens of avian influenza virus/Mycoplasma gallisepticum
Authors: Kumosani Taha Abdullah , Yaghmoor Soonham , Abdulaal Wesam H. , Barbour Elie
Published: March 2020

The global prevalence of economic primary infection of poultry by H9N2 virus, including the Lineage A, panzootic group ME1, predominant in many ME countries including KSA, and associated with secondary infection by Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG). This research evaluated in broilers the immunity and protection induced by aerosolization of liposomal nanoparticles vaccine, encapsulating antigens of H9N2 virus (Lineage A, panzootic group ME1) and MG (R-strain), with or without the incorporation of Echinacea extract (EE) immuno-stimulant. Six treatments (TRTs) of broilers were included in the experimental design, with three replicate pens/TRT and stocking of 20 day-old birds/replicate. Birds in TRT 1 received at 14 and 21 d of age the aerosolized nanoparticles, incorporating the antigens and devoid of immuno-stimulant, followed by intra-tracheal challenge at 28 d of age with viable H9N2 and MG; Birds of TRT 2 received aerosolized nanoparticles, incorporating only the EE and challenged similarly; TRT 3 received the aerosolized nanoparticles, incorporating both the antigens and EE followed by challenge; TRT 4 were only challenged(Positive Controls) ; TRT 5 received both the antigens and EE incorporated in aerosolized nanoparticles, and deprived of challenge; TRT 6 were deprived of vaccination and of challenge (Negative Controls). The tracheobronchial washings of TRT 3 showed the highest significant mean levels of each of IgA and IgG specific to H9N2 and MG, associated with lowest tracheal MG colonization, tracheal H9N2 recovery, tracheal histopathologic lesions, mortality, and best performance in BW and feed conversion compared to all other challenged birds of the different treatments (P<0.05). However, broilers free from challenge with MG and H9N2 (TRTs 5 and 6) had the lowest mortality and tracheal lesions, and the highest production performance. The aerosolization of liposomal nanoparticles, encapsulating antigens of H9N2 and MG and EE resulted in enough local immunity for protection of broilers against infection and lesions by the two causative agents, and for attaining the highest production performance in challenged birds. The vaccination by the antigens and EE to birds deprived of challenge had its apparent positive effect on production, an indication of the safety of the killed vaccine on broilers.
Analysis of relapse-associated alternative mRNA splicing and construction of a prognostic signature predicting relapse in I–III colon cancer
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Feng Qingyang , Zheng Peng , Lv Yang , Mao Yihao , Xu Yuqiu , He Guodong , Xu Jianmin
Published: March 2020

Background : The literature depicting the effects of alternative splicing (AS) events on relapse of colon cancer is little and there is no signature based on the alternative splicing. Methods : The bioinformatic analysis was performed based on data of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to identify the relapse-associated ASs, the potential interactions were further analyzed and a robust signature was built after univariate Cox regression, LASSO Cox regression, and multivariate Cox regression analysis to predict the relapse in I–III colon cancer. Molecular subtypes was identified based on the signature. Results : We identified 1912 ASs of 1384 mRNA, based on the relapse-associated ASs, we constructed the network of protein-protein interactions (PPI) and ASs-splicing factors (SF) interactions. 1294 of proteins with 7396 interactions were included in the PPI network. 14 SFs combined with 78 relapse-associated ASs were included in the AS-SF network. We finally built a robust signature to predict the relapse of I–III colon cancer with a considerable AUC value in both the training group and the test group (0.857,0.839). Based on the ASs involved in the signature, samples were classified into 4 molecular subgroups distinguishing the relapse rate in diverse groups. Conclusion : Our study provides a profile of relapse-associated ASs in I–III colon cancer and build a robust signature to predict the relapse of I–III colon cancer patients and further classify the patients into 4 molecular subtypes.
Circ_0007841 promotes the progression of multiple myeloma via miR-338-3p/BRD4 axis
Authors: Wang Yan , Lin Quande , Song Chunge , Ma Ruojin , Li Xiaojie
Published: March 2020

Background The pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM) is not completely known. Herein, we explored the function and the working mechanism of circular RNA circ_0007841 in MM progression. Methods Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was employed to detect the expression of circ_0007841, microRNA-338-3p (miR-338-3p) and bromodomain containing 4 (BRD4). The proliferation and metastasis of MM cells were examined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) assay and transwell assays. Flow cytometry was conducted to assess the cell cycle and the apoptosis of MM cells. The targets of circ_0007841 and miR-338-3p were predicted by circinteractome and targetscan softwares, and these predictions were confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA-pull down assay. The protein levels of BRD4, phosphorylated-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (p-PI3K), PI3K, p-AKT serine/threonine kinase (p-AKT) and AKT were measured by Western blot assay. Exosomes were extracted using Exosome isolation kit. Results Circ_0007841 was highly expressed in bone marrow (BM)-derived plasma cells of MM patients and MM cells than that in healthy volunteers and normal plasma cells nPCs. Circ_0007841 promoted the proliferation, cell cycle and metastasis and impeded the apoptosis of MM cells. MiR-338-3p was a direct target of circ_0007841 in MM cells. Circ_0007841 accelerated the progression of MM through targeting miR-338-3p. BRD4 could directly bind to miR-338-3p in MM cells. MiR-338-3p exerted an anti-tumor role through targeting BRD4. Circ_0007841 promoted the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling via miR-338-3p/BRD4 axis. Exosomes generated from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) elevated the malignant behaviors of MM cells via circ_0007841. Conclusion Circ_0007841 acted as an oncogene to promote the proliferation, cell cycle and motility and restrain the apoptosis of MM cells through sequestering miR-338-3p to up-regulate the expression of BRD4.
Upper airway cough syndrome may be the main cause of chronic cough in Japan: a cohort study
Authors: Yasuda Kimihiko
Published: March 2020

Background: Upper airway cough syndrome (UACS) is generally considered the main cause of chronic cough, but it is rarely recognised in Japan. This study identified the causes of chronic cough and assessed whether “UACS is the most common cause of chronic cough” in Japan, as it is in other countries. Although signs and symptoms of UACS are described as nonspecific, some items of interviews and examinations might be considered potentially useful in its diagnosis, and were evaluated for their association with it. Methods: All patients with chronic cough who visited my clinic were preliminarily diagnosed based on interviews and examinations. Bronchial asthma and UACS were preferentially diagnosed. Among the excluded cases, some patients with gastrointestinal symptoms or diet-related cough were diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease, while others were diagnosed with post-infectious prolonged cough. Nasal corticosteroids were administered to the UACS group, and standard treatment to the other groups. The observation period lasted 4 weeks. Subjective cough score at first diagnosis was set at 10, and final diagnosis was made based on the treatment administered when the cough score had decreased to ≤2. The association between the presence or absence of UACS and interview and examination items was statistically evaluated using a logistic regression model. Results: Among 230 patients with chronic cough, 146 were diagnosed with UACS-only. In the UACS-only group treated with nasal corticosteroids, 110 patients showed a significant improvement in cough scores within 2 weeks. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that assessment items “awareness of mucus accumulating in the back of the throat” (odds ratio [OR]: 4.613; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.124–18.928; P=0.034), “presence of abnormal echography findings” (OR: 15.725; 95% CI: 1.445–171.101; P=0.024), “absence of associated coughing when exercising” (OR: 0.212; 95% CI, 0.055–0.813; P=0.024), and “presence of coughing persisting after onset” (OR: 6.470; 95% CI, 1.755–23.843; P=0.005) were significantly associated with the presence or absence of UACS. Conclusions: UACS is the most common cause of chronic cough in Japan, as in other countries, and can be effectively treated with nasal corticosteroids. Diagnosing UACS might be possible by selecting appropriate interview and examination items.
Liver tumor concurrent with chronic myelocytic leukemia and extreme thrombocytosis: A rare case report
Authors: Han Ping , Han Zhiqiang , Mao Xia , Wang Jin , Li Qinglu , Xiao Min , Meng Li , Tian Dean , Hong Zhenya
Published: March 2020

Background Chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML) may occasionally occur after organ transplantation or long-term chemotherapy for solid tumors; Solid tumors secondary to long-term chemotherapy and biotherapy in CML have also been reported. However, the concurrence of solid tumor with CML and extreme thrombocytosis in an untreated patient is seldom reported. Case presentation We describe a 61-year-old woman transferred to liver surgery department for the discovery of a large mass in the liver and an elevated plasmic AFP. She was initially diagnosed with liver cancer. Blood tests indicated a marked increase of platelets(2464x10 9 /L). The chromosome examination of bone marrow biopsy indicated the existence of t(9;22) translocation, fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) and PCR were both positive for the Bcr-Abl rearrangement. The diagnosis of CML was made. She received hydroxyurea and imatinib to treat CML, and platelet-lowering therapy, and then underwent a liver biopsy, which suggestted a moderately-poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma, or might be a hepatic metastatic carcinoma. However, the patient refused further pathological examination and primary site screening for the tumor. She died six and a half months after discharge. Conclusion: Here, we describe a rare case of liver cancer concurrent with CML and extreme thrombocytosis in an old patient. However, the exact relationship between the two tumors is still unclear, and more cases are desired.
Identification and confirmation of slit defect-causing bacteria in Cheddar cheese
Authors: Marco Maria , Xue Zhengyao , Brooks Jason , Quart Zachary , Stevens Eric , Kable Mary , Heidenreich Jessie , Mcleod Jeremy
Published: March 2020

Background: Spoilage microbes remain a significant economic burden for the dairy industry. Validated approaches are needed to identify microbes present in low numbers in those foods and starting ingredients prior to spoilage. Therefore, we applied a combination of propidium monoazide treatment combined with 16S rRNA gene amplicon DNA sequencing for viable cell detection, qPCR for bacterial enumeration, and laboratory culture, isolate identification, and pilot-scale cheese production to identify the causative bacterial agents of slit defects in industrially-produced Cheddar cheese. Because spoilage cannot be predicted in advance, the bacterial composition in milk was measured immediately before and after High Temperature Short Time (HTST) pasteurization over time and on multiple days and in resulting cheese blocks. Results: Milk was sampled over 10 h periods on ten days immediately before and after the final HTST pasteurization step prior to the initiation of cheese fermentations. HTST reduced the alpha-diversity of the viable, but not total, bacterial contents in milk and increased the proportions of thermoduric and endospore-forming bacterial taxa. There was a significant increase in viable bacterial cell numbers over the 10-h run times of the pasteurizer, including 68-fold higher numbers of Thermus. Between 0.22% to 10.9% of the bacteria in cheese were non-starter contaminants comprised mainly of Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, however, only Lactobacillus proportions increased during cheese aging. Lactobacillus, and Lactobacillus fermentum in particular, was also enriched in slit-containing cheeses and in the pre-HTST and post-HTST milk used to make them. Although some endospore-forming bacteria were associated with slits and could be isolated from milk and cheese, none were consistently associated with slit development. Pilot-scale cheeses developed slits when inoculated with L. fermentum, other heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria isolates, or with uncultured bacterial consortia collected from the pre-HTST or post-HTST milk, thus confirming that low abundance taxa in milk can negatively affect cheese quality. Conclusions: We identified and verified that certain low-abundance, bacterial taxa in milk are responsible for causing slit defects in Cheddar cheese. The likelihood for microorganisms in milk to cause defects could be predicted based on comparisons of the bacteria present in the pre- and post-HTST milk used for cheesemaking.
Developing an inter-professional transition course to improve team-based HIV care for Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Kiguli-Malwadde Elsie , Budak Jehan Z , Chilemba Evelyn , Semitala Fred , Von Zinkernagel Deborah , Mosepele Mosepele , Conradie Hoffie , Khanyola J , Haruruvizhe Clara , Martin Shayanne , Kazembe Abigail , De Villiers M , Reid Michael J A
Published: March 2020

Background With funding from the Health Resources Service Administration (HRSA), a consortium of health professional training institutions from Africa developed HIV-specific, inter-professional, team-based resources to better support trainees during the transition period between pre-service training and professional practice.Methods Ten faculty members representing nine medical and nursing schools in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) developed a training package of modules focused on core clinical, public health, interprofessional education (IPE), and quality improvement (QI) domains related to HIV service delivery. All modules were targeted at newly qualified health care professionals and intended to be taught in workshops meant to complement existing institution specific HIV-curricula.Results Between April and July 2019, a comprehensive case-based HIV training package was developed to support trainees in transition from pre-service training to independent professional practice. Each module was intended to be delivered in an inter-professional format and addressed different elements of inter-professional practice.Conclusions To our knowledge this is the first IPE HIV-specific curriculum explicitly focused on enhancing the quality of training provided to graduating health care professionals working in SSA. The collaborative, cross-institutional, inter-professional approach to curriculum development provides a benchmark for how best-practice approaches to education can be rapidly disseminated in SSA.
Type II odontoid fractures: Complication, mortality, and outcome after posterior C1-C2 fixation and fusion, single institute experience
Authors: İnan Gezgin , Gokten Murat , Sezer Can , Sezer Aykut , Geyik Abidin Murat , Cagli Sedat
Published: March 2020

Background The aim of the present study was to evaluate long term C1-C2 fusion rates and functional outcomes in patients with type II odontoid fractures treated with posterior fixation with polyaxial C1 lateral mass and C2 pars screws. Methods A total of 32 patients were retrospectively evaluated. Study parameters included Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and visual analog scale score for neck pain. All patients had computerized tomography (CT) scans preoperatively and at six months postoperatively; X-rays preoperatively and at three months and 12 months after operation Results Among the etiological factors, first (59.4%) fall from high and second (40.6%) traffic accidents have been observed. The duration of follow-up was 28.4 ± 8.5 months. A total of 25 patients had improvement on mean VAS score. A total of 12 patients had improvement at modified JOA score. No vascular injury occurred in our series. One patient (3.1%) developed hospital pneumonia, and the patient died at postoperative 6 th week. One patient (3.1%) had nonunion, but no neurological deficit was observed, and revision surgery was not needed 30 patients (93.8%) had fracture healing and fusion after posterior C1-C2 fixation. Conclusions In our opinion, posterior C1-C2 fixation and fusion is the treatment of choice in type II odontoid fractures with good fusion results. We achieved good results and low complication and mortality rates.
Surgical treatment of atlantoaxial subluxation by intraoperative skull traction and C1-C2 fixation
Authors: Guo Jianwei , Lu Wencan , Ji Xiangli , Ren Xianfeng , Tang Xiaojie , Zhao Zheng , Hu Huiqiang , Song Tao , Du Yukun , Li Jianyi , Shao Cheng , Xu Tongshuai , Xi Yongming
Published: March 2020

Background: Atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) is a not rare abnormality between the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). For AAS patients with persistent neck pain and neurologic symptoms, surgical intervention is a good choice. Nevertheless, there were still few reports about the use of intraoperative skull traction and different fixation methods in treatment of AAS.Methods: From January 2012 to December 2018, a total of 86 cases were admitted to our hospital and diagnosed as AAS. All the patients received atlantoaxial reduction with the help of intraoperative skull traction and C1-C2 fixation. Clinical and radiological parameters were collected through chart review.Results: There were 86 cases included in this study. The mean operative time was 153.9 ± 73.9 min, and the mean amount of intraoperative blood loss was 219.1 ± 195.6ml. 81 patients underwent posterior reduction, internal fixation and fusion. 5 patients underwent anterior release, followed by posterior internal fixation and fusion. All the patients got satisfactory postoperative outcomes. Significant neurologic improvement was observed in these patients. Bone fusion was achieved on the midline sagittal reconstructed CT images at the latest follow-up in all these patients except 1 case. All the patients were followed up for 34.84 ± 15.86 months at average (range 12-60 months). The mean ADI value was 7.55±1.67 mm at average preoperatively, and improved to 4.03±1.21 mm postoperatively, and to 4.21±0.99 mm at the latest follow-up. The mean A-A angle was 15.48±9.82 degrees at average preoperatively, and improved to 21.61±10.43 degrees postoperatively, and to 19.73±8.13 degrees at the latest follow-up. The mean A-A height was 35.61±7.66 mm at average preoperatively, and improved to 40.08±8.5 mm postoperatively, and to 38.83±6.97 mm at the latest follow-up. There were complications in 4 patients, including pedicle misplacement, pedicle fracture, infection and one death.Conclusion: Intraoperative skull traction can effectively facilitate the surgical procedures for ASS caused by different etiologies. Further research are needed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of this method.
Murine Radiation-Induced Stomach Pathology from Whole Thoracic Irradiation
Authors: McIlrath Daniel R. , Perez-Torres Carlos
Published: March 2020

Background: Mouse models of radiation-induced lung injury are commonly produced to find novel treatments for the condition. While attempting to irridiate mouse lungs for purposes of creating such a model, noticable declines in health were observed at much earlier time points than recorded for lung pathology. These effects were attributed to off-target effects from imprecise radiation delivery.Methods: Verification of radiation localization was performed through film dosimetry of the irradiated thorax. Male C57Bl/6 mice were irradiated with a single dose of 20 Gy to the whole thoracic area delivered by an X-Rad cabient irradiator. CT was performed with respitory gating at 2 to 4 week timepoints to which identified abnormal pathology in vivo. Confirmation of CT findings was performed via histology on the stomachs using hematoxylin and eosin staining.Results: On the CT images, we observed a large, spherecal volume of hypointense signal, caudal to the lungs as easrly as 4 weeks post irradiation. This correlated with a distended stomach caused by constipation and gas build-up within the stomach. Statistical anlysis showed 81% of mice (n=105) died prematurely after irradiation before the desired development of pulmonary fibrosis. Mice sacrificed and disected showed unpassed bolus as contents of the stomach, and histology showed cell metaplasia of the stomach walls.Conclusion: Imprecise radiation dose delivery to the lungs lead to unexpected pathology of the stomach. Future studies need to consider careful placement of shields or any beam contouring devices to ensure protection of the stomach given its higher radiosensitivity in contrast to the lungs.
Preponderance of precise open excision surgery to treat osteoid osteoma
Authors: Yuan Yuhao , Long Feng , Liu Qing , Wu Ziyi , He Hongbo , Luo Wei
Published: March 2020

PurposeThe aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of precise open excision surgery to treat osteoid osteoma with C-arm assisted precise localization during the operation.MethodsFrom June 2010 to June 2017, patients with osteoid osteoma of the extremities who had undergone treatment by high speed burr grinding, full scratching with curette, and C-arm assisted lesion localization during the operation were analyzed retrospectively. The preoperative and postoperative pain was assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring. The patients were followed up regularly, and the advantages, effects, and complications of the therapeutic technique were analyzed.ResultsThe study consisted of 94 patients (59 males, 35 females; mean age, 17.6 ± 8.5 years) and they were followed up for a mean of 38.9 months (range, 24–72 months). All patients were diagnosed with osteoid osteoma by postoperative pathological examination. Follow-up consisted of imaging reexamination and clinical evaluation. If the patients did not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) before the operation, the mean pre-operative VAS score was 6.7, and the mean VAS score of all patients was 0 one month after operation. The mean time for all patients to resume normal daily activities was 14.3 days (range, 10-21 days). There was no recurrence of pain, infection, vascular or nerve injury, and fracture complications during the follow-up. In only one case of distal femur osteoid osteoma (OO), review X-ray found a suspected recurrence 50 months after the primary surgery and subsequently, the patient underwent a second surgery. Till date, the patient has reported no discomfort following the second surgery.ConclusionsFor treatment of osteoid osteoma, open incision and minimal resection with C-arm assisted tumor localization is still a suitable method, especially for osteoid osteoma located on the surface of the cortical bone.