bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors associated with malaria infection along China–Myanmar border: a case–control study
Authors: Xu Jian-Wei , Deng Dao-Wei , Wei Chun , Zhou Xing-Wu , Li Jian-Xiong
Published: October 2022

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) has certificated China malaria free, but imported malaria is a continuous challenge in preventing reintroduction of malaria in the border area of China. Understanding risk factors of malaria along China–Myanmar border is benefit for preventing reintroduction of malaria in China and achieving the WHO’s malaria elimination goal in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).

Methods

This is a case–control study with one malaria case matched to two controls, in which cases were microscopy-confirmed malaria patients and controls were feverish people with microscopy-excluded malaria. A matched logistic regression analysis (LRA) was used to identify risk factors associated with malaria infection.

Results

From May 2016 through October 2017, the study recruited 223 malaria cases (152 in China and 71 in Myanmar) and 446 controls (304 in China and 142 in Myanmar). All the 152 cases recruited in China were imported malaria. Independent factors associated with malaria infection were overnight out of home in one month prior to attendance of health facilities (adjusted odd ratio [AOR] 13.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.32–28.28, P < 0.0001), staying overnight in rural lowland and foothill (AOR 2.73, 95% CI: 1.45–5.14, P = 0.0019), staying overnight at altitude < 500 m (AOR 5.66, 95% CI: 3.01–10.71, P < 0.0001) and streamlets ≤ 100 m (AOR9.98, 95% CI: 4.96–20.09, P < 0.0001) in the border areas of Myanmar; and people lacking of knowledge of malaria transmission (AOR 2.17, 95% CI: 1.42–3.32, P = 0.0004).

Conclusions

Malaria transmission is highly focalized in lowland and foothill in the border areas of Myanmar. The risk factors associated with malaria infection are overnight staying out of home, at low altitude areas, proximity to streamlets and lack of knowledge of malaria transmission. To prevent reintroduction of malaria transmission in China and achieve the WHO goal of malaria elimination in the GMS, cross-border collaboration is continuously necessary, and health education is sorely needed for people in China to maintain their malaria knowledge and vigilance, and in Myanmar to improve their ability of personal protection.
Pathophysiology of Post-COVID syndromes: a new perspective
Authors: Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Al-kuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Gareeb Ali I. , Welson Nermeen N.
Published: October 2022

Most COVID-19 patients recovered with low mortality; however, some patients experienced long-term symptoms described as “long-COVID” or “Post-COVID syndrome” (PCS). Patients may have persisting symptoms for weeks after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, including dyspnea, fatigue, myalgia, insomnia, cognitive and olfactory disorders. These symptoms may last for months in some patients. PCS may progress in association with the development of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), which is a distinct kind of mast cell activation disorder, characterized by hyper-activation of mast cells with inappropriate and excessive release of chemical mediators. COVID-19 survivors, mainly women, and patients with persistent severe fatigue for 10 weeks after recovery with a history of neuropsychiatric disorders are more prone to develop PCS. High D-dimer levels and blood urea nitrogen were observed to be risk factors associated with pulmonary dysfunction in COVID-19 survivors 3 months post-hospital discharge with the development of PCS. PCS has systemic manifestations that resolve with time with no further complications. However, the final outcomes of PCS are chiefly unknown. Persistence of inflammatory reactions, autoimmune mimicry, and reactivation of pathogens together with host microbiome alterations may contribute to the development of PCS. The deregulated release of inflammatory mediators in MCAS produces extraordinary symptoms in patients with PCS. The development of MCAS during the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection is correlated to COVID-19 severity and the development of PCS. Therefore, MCAS is treated by antihistamines, inhibition of synthesis of mediators, inhibition of mediator release, and inhibition of degranulation of mast cells.
The effect of cognitive behavior therapy on anxiety and depression during COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zamiri-Miandoab Nasrin , Hassanzade Robab , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: October 2022

Background

The global spread of coronavirus has caused many physical and mental health problems throughout the world. Depression and anxiety are among the issues that people are experiencing abundantly, along with other mental health disorders, during this period. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is one of the approaches that is effective on improving most of the psychological issues including depression and anxiety. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effects of CBT on depression and anxiety during COVID-19 pandemic period.

Methods

English databases such as Cochrane, PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Persian databases such as SID, MagIran and IranDoc were searched with a time limit of 2019 to 2022. Two researchers independently evaluated the quality of the entered studies based on Cochrane handbook. Subgroup analysis was conducted separately on the basis of being infected with coronavirus, not being infected with coronavirus, and having a history of depression or anxiety before the intervention and internet-based CBT for depression and anxiety. Meta-analysis results were reported using standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Heterogeneity of studies was analyzed by means ofI2index; and in the case of heterogeneity presence, random effects model was used instead of fixed effects model. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) was used for evaluating the quality of evidence.

Results

Totally, 2015 articles were analyzed of which 11 articles entered meta-analysis. The overall results of meta-analysis showed that mean score of anxiety in the group receiving CBT was significantly lower than the control group (SMD: − 0.95, 95% CI − 1.29 to − 0.62;P < 0.00001,I2 = 94%). In addition, mean score of depression in the intervention group was significantly lower than the control group (SMD: − 0.58; 95% CI − 1.00 to − 0.16,P < 0.00001,I2 = 94%). In addition, the results of subgroup meta-analysis showed that internet-based CBT was effective in reducing of depression (SMD − 0.35; 95% CI − 0.50 to − 0.20;P < 0.00001;I2 = 0%) and anxiety (SMD − 0.90; 95%CI − 1.47 to − 0.33;P = 0.002;I2 = 94%). The evidence about the effectiveness of CBT on depression and anxiety compared with control group on the basis of GRADE approach had low quality.

Conclusions

Meta-analysis results showed that CBT reduced the mean scores of anxiety and depression significantly during COVID-19 pandemic period. Due to the low quality of evidence, conducting more randomized controlled trials with rigorous design is suggested.

Prospero registrationThis systematic review has been registered in Prospero (ID: CRD42021277213).
Do chiropractic interns use clinical practice guidelines when managing patients with neck pain in France? A feasibility study
Authors: Sorondo Delphine , Delpierre Cyrille , Côté Pierre , Lemeunier Nadège
Published: October 2022

Background

In France, we lack knowledge about factors influencing chiropractors’ use of French guideline for managing neck pain and associated disorders (NAD). In particular, we know little about how chiropractic interns use clinical practice guidelines during their training.

Objectives

We aimed to determine the feasibility of conducting a cross-sectional study of chiropractic interns to determine their utilization and conformity with clinical practice guidelines when managing patients with NAD in France.

Method

We developed a web-based questionnaire which included 3 sections: (1) clinical vignettes; (2) determinants of practice and (3) socio-demographic and current practice information. The study was conducted in two phases. The first phase included 2 groups: chiropractors and students (interns). Ten chiropractors reviewed and made recommendations on content (especially clinical vignettes), readability, and flow of the survey. Fifteen interns were invited to pretest the proposed recruitment strategy and determine time needed to survey completion, assess completeness of data collection, and evaluate its readability and flow in students. Due to the low participation of students during the first phase, 20 additional interns were invited to participate and pilot the revised recruitment strategy during the second phase. A group of 20 interns were invited to participate and pilot the revised recruitment strategy during the second phase. Qualitative feedbacks about the recruitment strategy, the content of the questionnaire and the survey process were collected by phone to improve all these steps if necessary.

Results

We collected data from November 2020 to February 2021. In phase 1, 70% of chiropractors (7/10) reviewed the survey and one intern responded (7% participation rate). A revised recruitment strategy was designed and 70% of interns agreed to participate in phase 2. Time to complete the questionnaire was on average 48 m:22 s. Interns evaluated survey content as relevant, comprehensive, covering the range of 4 grades of NAD, and adapted to an intern sample. Five main modifications were recommended by (1) Adjusting survey support; (2) Enhancing communication strategy; (3) Considering interns’ comments about the length of the questionnaire; (4) Modifying 2 determinants not adapted to a French context; (5) Adding a proposal when determinants deal with multidisciplinary management.

Conclusion

Conducting a web-based cross-sectional study of chiropractic interns to assess their utilization and conformity to clinical practice guideline is feasible.
The emerging role of pyroptosis in pediatric cancers: from mechanism to therapy
Authors: Wang Hua , Zhou Xiaowen , Li Chenbei , Yan Shuxiang , Feng Chengyao , He Jieyu , Li Zhihong , Tu Chao
Published: October 2022

Pediatric cancers are the driving cause of death for children and adolescents. Due to safety requirements and considerations, treatment strategies and drugs for pediatric cancers have been so far scarcely studied. It is well known that tumor cells tend to progressively evade cell death pathways, which is known as apoptosis resistance, one of the hallmarks of cancer, dominating tumor drug resistance. Recently, treatments targeting nonapoptotic cell death have drawn great attention. Pyroptosis, a newly specialized form of cell death, acts as a critical physiological regulator in inflammatory reaction, cell development, tissue homeostasis and stress response. The action in different forms of pyroptosis is of great significance in the therapy of pediatric cancers. Pyroptosis could be induced and consequently modulate tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis if treated with local or systemic therapies. However, excessive or uncontrolled cell death might lead to tissue damage, acute inflammation, or even cytokine release syndrome, which facilitates tumor progression or recurrence. Herein, we aimed to describe the molecular mechanisms of pyroptosis, to highlight and discuss the challenges and opportunities for activating pyroptosis pathways through various oncologic therapies in multiple pediatric neoplasms, including osteosarcoma, neuroblastoma, leukemia, lymphoma, and brain tumors.
Evaluating a tool to improve engagement and recruitment of under-served groups in trials
Authors: Morris Lydia , Dumville Jo , Treweek Shaun , Miah Nasima , Curtis Ffion , Bower Peter
Published: October 2022

Background

Despite substantial awareness that certain groups (e.g. ethnic minorities) are under-represented and under-served in trials, limited progress has been made in addressing this. As well as a public service and ethical duty to recruit and engage under-served groups in relevant research, importantly, there are clear scientific benefits, for example, increased generalisability.

The key aims of the current study were to explore the following: general barriers and facilitators to enhancing the recruitment of under-served groups into trials, the usability and value of a specific tool (INCLUDE Ethnicity Framework) to support engagement and recruitment of under-served groups, and ways of engaging diverse patient, public and community involvement and engagement (PCIE) groups.

Methods

Firstly, researchers completed a brief survey in relation to a specific trial in which they were involved (N = 182, 38% response rate). A second stage involved sampling survey respondents and asking them to complete the INCLUDE Ethnicity Framework and then a remote semi-structured interview (N = 15). Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Finally, we conducted a consultation process with PCIE contributors primarily to develop guidelines for discussing the INCLUDE Ethnicity Framework with PCIE representatives.

Results

Researchers recognised the importance of increasing engagement and recruitment of under-served groups within trials, but varied in their knowledge, ability and commitment to implementation in practice. The INCLUDE Ethnicity Framework was described by some as raising their awareness of how inclusion could be improved. Respondents highlighted a need for shared resources and wider structural change to facilitate such engagement. PCIE was identified, in the survey and interviews, as the most common method of trying to improve recruitment of under-served groups. However, researchers also commonly highlighted that PCIE groups were sometimes not very diverse.

Conclusions

There is a need for researchers to consider the funding and time resources required for diverse and inclusive recruitment to trials and for funders to enable this. The INCLUDE Ethnicity Framework can help to raise awareness of inclusion challenges. This study indicates that it is important to take proactive steps to involve relevant under-served groups in PCIE and practical suggestions are made to facilitate this.
Emergency department-based, nurse-initiated, serious illness conversation intervention for older adults: a protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Prachanukool Thidathit , Block Susan D. , Berry Donna , Lee Rachel S. , Rossmassler Sarah , Hasdianda Mohammad A. , Wang Wei , Sudore Rebecca , Schonberg Mara A. , Tulsky James A. , Ouchi Kei
Published: October 2022

Background

Visits to the emergency department (ED) are inflection points in patients’ illness trajectories and are an underutilized setting to engage seriously ill patients in conversations about their goals of care. We developed an intervention (ED GOAL) that primes seriously ill patients to discuss their goals of care with their outpatient clinicians after leaving the ED. The aims of this study are (i) to test the impact ofED GOALadministered by trained nurses on self-reported, advance care planning (ACP) engagement after leaving the ED and (ii) to evaluate whetherED GOALincreases self-reported completion of serious illness conversation and other patient-centered outcomes.

Methods

This is a two-armed, parallel-design, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial of 120 seriously ill older adults in two academic and one community EDs in Boston, MA. Participants are English-speaking adults 50 years and older with a serious life-limiting illness with a recent ED visit. Patients with a valid MOLST (medical order for life-sustaining treatment) form or other documented goals of care within the last 3 months are excluded. We enroll the caregivers of patients with cognitive impairment. Patients are assigned to the intervention or control group using block randomization. A blinded research team member will perform outcome assessments. We will assess (i) changes in ACP engagement within 6 months and (ii) qualitative assessments of the effect ofED GOAL.

Discussion

In seriously ill older adults arriving in the ED, this randomized controlled trial will test the effects ofED GOALon patients’ self-reported ACP engagement, EMR documentation of new serious illness conversations, and improving patient-centered outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govidentifier: NCT05209880
Insights into an NEk2 inhibitory profile of nitidine chloride by molecular docking and biological evaluation
Authors: Li Danni , Lu Jiahao , Zhang Qiying , Zhou Yuzhu , Li Long , Zhu Hua , Li Tong
Published: October 2022

Deregulation of NEK2(NIMA-related serine/threonine 2) confers chemotherapeutic resistance to apoptosis and is closely correlated with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we find that nanoparticles are prepared through hemisynthesis from natural nitidine chloride (NC) with enhanced antitumor activity. Nitidine chloride nanoparticle (TPGS-FA/NC) treatment show good therapy effect in Li-7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Additionally, molecular docking technologies are aimed at NEK2 protein (PDB ID: 6SGD) to analyze the detailed binding interactions with the potent target. NC participates in interactions with Asp159 residue. These studies advance the understanding of the modification of nitidine chloride substituent and provide useful drug design information for liver cancer treatment.
Volatile chemical composition of Octoblepharum albidum Hedw. (Bryophyta) from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Alves Raynon Joel Monteiro , Miranda Thyago Gonçalves , Pinheiro Rafaela Oliveira , de Souza Pinheiro Wandson Braamcamp , Andrade Eloisa Helena de Aguiar , Tavares-Martins Ana Cláudia Caldeira
Published: October 2022

Bryophytes have a variety of bioactive compounds that can be used in biotechnological processes. The objective of this study was to know the volatile chemical composition of Octoblepharum albidum Hedw. from the Amazon and investigate its association with possible bioactive effects on insects. The volatile concentrate of O. albidum was obtained by micro-scale simultaneous distillation–extraction and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and the identification of the compounds was based on system libraries and specialized literature. Twelve organic compounds (92.44% of the total) were identified. Hexadecanoic acid, oleic acid, E-isoeugenol, 1-octen-3-ol, and stearic acid were the major compounds. Most of the compounds have already been reported from bryophytes, while others have an unprecedented occurrence in the group. All identified compounds have biological activities reported in the literature and may participate in plant defense mechanisms against insects, causing mortality or developmental inhibition. In this study, we describe for the first time the volatile chemical composition of O. albidum from Brazil and provide evidence that this species is a source of bioactive compounds. The identified compounds have been reported in the literature to cause mortality or affect the biological parameters of insects, what suggests the possibility of their usage in the formulation of bioinsecticides.
Historical records of plant-insect interactions in subarctic Finland
Authors: Zoller Leana , Knight Tiffany M.
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Historical ecological records document the diversity and composition of communities decades or centuries ago. They can provide a valuable benchmark for comparisons with modern communities. Historical datasets on plant-animal interactions allow for modern comparisons that examine the stability of species and interaction networks over long periods of time and in response to anthropogenic change. Here we present a curated dataset of interactions between plants and insects in subarctic Finland, generated from digitizing a historical document from the late 19th century and updating the taxonomy using currently accepted nomenclature.

Data description

The resulting dataset contains 654 records of plant-insect interactions observed during the years 1895–1900, and includes 498 unique interactions between 86 plant species and 173 insect taxa. Syrphidae, Apidae and Muscidae were the insect families involved in most interactions, and interactions were most observed with the plant species Angelica archangelica, Salix caprea, and Chaerophyllum prescottii. Interaction data are available as csv-file and provide a valuable resource on plant-insect interactions over 120 years ago in a high latitude ecosystem that is undergoing rapid climate change.
Direct sequencing of β-globin gene reveals a rare combination of two exonic and two intronic variants in a β-thalassemia major patient: a case report
Authors: Chauhan Waseem , Fatma Rafat , Zaka-ur-Rab Zeeba , Afzal Mohammad
Published: October 2022

Background

Due to indels in the β-globin gene, patients with β-thalassemia major exhibit a range of severity, with genotype β0β0 > β0β+ > β+β+, according to the production level of the β-globin chain. More than 300 mutations have been identified in the β-globin gene.

Case presentation

In this case study, we report a compound heterozygous condition with a rare concoction of four different variants (CD 3(T > C), CD41/42 (-CTTT), IVS II-16 (G > C), and IVS II-666 (C > T) in a single β-globin gene. A regular transfusion-dependent 4-year-old male patient from India was included in the study. Augmented direct sequencing of the β-globin gene helped reveal the presence of an unusual combination of different variants in a single gene. This patient clinically presented as β-thalassemia major and was genotypically considered as β0β+, although CD41/42(-CTTT) was the only causative/pathogenic mutation in the disease severity.

Conclusion

Although CD41/42-(CTTT) is the only pathogenic variant among the four variants, the clinical complications of such a combination of variants (pathogenic and benign) is not well understood. Intronic mutations may have the ability to modify clinical characteristics. The variants must therefore be reclassified using additional mRNA splicing and expression-based studies. Additionally, these types of combinations may have significance in studying population migration around the world.
Blood donor biobank and HLA imputation as a resource for HLA homozygous cells for therapeutic and research use
Authors: Clancy Jonna , Hyvärinen Kati , Ritari Jarmo , Wahlfors Tiina , Partanen Jukka , Koskela Satu
Published: October 2022

Background

Allogeneic therapeutic cells may be rejected if they express HLA alleles not found in the recipient. As finding cell donors with a full HLA match to a recipient requires vast donor pools, the use of HLA homozygous cells has been suggested as an alternative. HLA homozygous cells should be well tolerated by those who carry at least one copy of donor HLA alleles. HLA-A-B homozygotes could be valuable for HLA-matched thrombocyte products. We evaluated the feasibility of blood donor biobank and HLA imputation for the identification of potential cell donors homozygous for HLA alleles.

Methods

We imputed HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DQA1, -DQB1 and -DPB1 alleles from genotypes of 20,737 Finnish blood donors in the Blood Service Biobank. We confirmed homozygosity by sequencing HLA alleles in 30 samples and by examining 36,161 MHC-located polymorphic DNA markers.

Results

Three hundred and seventeen individuals (1.5%), representing 41 different haplotypes, were found to be homozygous for HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DQA1 and -DQB1 alleles. Ten most frequent haplotypes homozygous for HLA-A to -DQB1 were HLA-compatible with 49.5%, and three most frequent homozygotes to 30.4% of the Finnish population. Ten most frequent HLA-A-B homozygotes were compatible with 75.3%, and three most frequent haplotypes to 42.6% of the Finnish population. HLA homozygotes had a low level of heterozygosity in MHC-located DNA markers, in particular in HLA haplotypes enriched in Finland.

Conclusions

The present study shows that HLA imputation in a blood donor biobank of reasonable size can be used to identify HLA homozygous blood donors suitable for cell therapy, HLA-typed thrombocytes and research. The homozygotes were HLA-compatible with a large fraction of the Finnish population. Regular blood donors reported to have positive attitude to research donation appear a good option for these purposes. Differences in population frequencies of HLA haplotypes emphasize the need for population-specific collections of HLA homozygous samples.
Identification of a new way to induce differentiation of dermal fibroblasts into vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Cui XiaoLing , Wang XiaoTan , Wen Jie , Li Xiao , Li Nan , Hao XuXiao , Zhao BaoXiang , Wu Xunwei , Miao JunYing
Published: October 2022

Background

Human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) have the potential to differentiate into vascular endothelial cells (VECs), but their differentiation rate is low and the mechanism involved is not clear. The small molecule pathway controls the phenotype of fibroblasts by activating cellular signaling pathways, which is a more convenient method in the differentiation strategy of HDFs into VECs.

Methods

In this study, HDFs were treated with the different doses of CPP ((E)-4-(4-(4-(7-(diethylamino)-2-oxo-2H-chromene-3-carbonyl) piperazin-1-yl) styryl)-1-methylpyridin-1-ium iodide), and the mRNA and protein levels of HDFs were detected by qPCR, Western blot, flow cytometry and immunofluorescent staining. The matrigel assays, acetylated-LDL uptake and angiogenesis assays of chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and hindlimb ischemia model of nude mice were performed to evaluate the functions of VECs derived from HDFs.

Results

Here, we report that the small chemical molecule, CPP, can effectively induce HDFs to differentiate into VECs. First, we observed the morphological changes of HDFS treated with CPP. Flow cytometry, Western blot and qRT-PCR analyses showed that CPP effectively decreased the level of the HDFs-marker Vimentin and increased levels of the VEC-markers CD31, CD133, TEK, ERG, vWF, KDR and CDH5. Detection of the percentage of CD31-positive cells by immunofluorescent staining confirmed that CPP can effectively induce HDFs to differentiate into VECs. The results of Matrigel assays, DiI-ac-LDL uptake, angiogenesis assays on CAM and hindlimb ischemia model of nude mice showed that CPP-induced HDFs have the functions of VECs in vitro and in vivo. Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis showed that CPP induces HDFs to differentiate into VECs by promoting the expression of pro-angiogenic factors (VEGF, FGF-2 and PDGF-BB).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the small chemical molecule CPP efficiently induces the differentiation of HDFs into VECs. Simultaneously, this new inducer provides a potential to develop new approaches to restore vascular function for the treatment of ischemic vascular diseases.
Unrelated cord blood transplantation vs. HLA-matched sibling transplantation for adults with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in complete remission: superior OS for patients with long-term survival
Authors: Sun Guangyu , Tang Baolin , Song Kaidi , Wu Yue , Tu Meijuan , Wan Xiang , Yao Wen , Geng Liangquan , Qiang Ping , Zhu Xiaoyu
Published: October 2022

Background

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is an important curative therapy for adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). For patients who lack a human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched sibling donor, unrelated cord blood (UCB) is an alternative graft option. Previous studies have focused mainly on all T- and B-cell ALL (B-ALL) patients, while data related specifically to adult B-ALL patients after UCB transplantation (UCBT) are scarce.

Methods

We retrospectively compared the outcomes of UCBT and HLA-matched sibling transplantation (MST) in the treatment of adult B-ALL patients in complete remission (CR) at our center. From June 2006 to December 2020, 156 adult B-ALL patients who achieved CR before transplantation were enrolled. The main clinical outcomes of UCBT and MST were analyzed.

Results

Hematopoietic recovery was significantly faster in MST recipients than in UCBT recipients. Higher incidences of grades II-IV and III-IV acute graft-versus host disease (aGVHD) were found in UCBT recipients (P < 0.001 and = 0.03), while a lower incidence of extensive chronic GVHD (cGVHD) was found in UCBT recipients (P < 0.001). The cumulative incidences of 2-year non-relapse mortality (NRM), 2-year relapse, 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) and 5-year GVHD-free relapse-free survival (GRFS) were comparable between MST and UCBT recipients. The overall survival (OS) during the first 700 days was similar between the MST and UCBT groups, while the OS of patients with a survival time of more than 700 days in the UCBT group was better than that in the MST group according to multivariate analysis (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Our study shows that when treating adult B-ALL patients in CR, UCBT can achieve comparable effects as MST, may provide superior OS for patients with long-term survival, and should be considered a good alternative.
Enteric neurosphere cells injected into rectal submucosa might migrate caudorostrally to reconstitute enteric ganglia along the entire length of postnatal colon
Authors: Chen Jeng-Chang
Published: October 2022

Background

In enteric neural stem cell (ENSC) therapy for enteric neuropathy, the gut is ostensibly accessible via laparotomy, laparoscopy or endoscopy, whereas its elongated configuration and multilayered structures substantially complicate the targeting of ENSC delivery. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of ENSC delivery via trans-anal rectal submucosal injection.

Methods

ENSC transplantation was conducted in an immunologically compatible model of FVB/NCrl-Tg(Pgk1-EGFP)01Narl into FVB/N murine strain combination. Enteric neurospheres were mass-produced by the cultivation of dispersed enterocytes harvested from gestational day 14 FVB/NCrl-Tg(Pgk1-EGFP)01Narl murine fetuses. Dissociated neurosphere cells were injected into rectal submucosa of adult FVB/N mice after artificial prolapse of rectal mucosa. Ganglion reconstitution in recipients’ colon was examined by immunohistochemcal and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

Cell spreading and ganglion assembly in recipients’ colorectum were examined one week after transplantation. Donor ENSCs migrated rostrally within the colonic wall to intermuscularly repopulate the neighboring colorectum and assemble myenteric ganglia. It contributed to a chimeric state of myenteric plexuses with donor-origin ganglia of 41.2–67.5%. Two months later, transplanted ENSCs had undergone long-distance caudorostral migration almost up to the cecum to reconstitute myenteric and submucosal ganglia along the entire length of the colon.

Conclusion

This proof-of-principle study provided a viable justification for minimally invasive rectal ENSC transplantation to create long-term and long-range reconstitution of enteric ganglia. It opens up the new approach to ENSC delivery in laboratory animals and casts light on the feasibility of replacing damaged or replenishing missing enteric neurons by trans-anal rectal ENSC transplantation.
Modification and application of highly active alkaline pectin lyase
Authors: Li Pi-Wu , Ma Jun , Wei Xiao-Feng , Zhang Zi-Yang , Wang Rui-Ming , Xiao Jing , Wang Jun-Qing
Published: October 2022

Alkaline pectate lyase has developmental prospects in the textile, pulp, paper, and food industries. In this study, we selected BacPelA, the pectin lyase with the highest expression activity from Bacillus clausii, modified and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). Through fragment replacement, the catalytic activity of the enzyme was significantly improved. The optimum pH and temperature of the modified pectin lyase (PGLA-rep4) were 11.0 and 70 °C, respectively. It also exhibited a superior ability to cleave methylated pectin. The enzyme activity of PGLA-rep4, measured at 235 nm with 0.2% apple pectin as the substrate, was 554.0 U/mL, and the specific enzyme activity after purification using a nickel column was 822.9 U/mg. After approximately 20 ns of molecular dynamics simulation, the structure of the pectin lyase PGLA-rep4 tended to be stable. The root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) values at the key catalytically active site, LYS168, were higher than those of the wildtype PGLA. In addition, PGLA-rep4 was relatively stable in the presence of metal ions. PGLA-rep4 has good enzymatic properties and activities and maintains a high pH and temperature. This study provides a successful strategy for enhancing the catalytic activity of PGLA-rep4, making it the ultimate candidate for degumming and various uses in the pulp, paper, and textile industries.
CXCL12/CXCR7/β-arrestin1 biased signal promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of colorectal cancer by repressing miRNAs through YAP1 nuclear translocation
Authors: Si Mahan , Song Yujia , Wang Xiaohui , Wang Dong , Liu Xiaohui , Qu Xianjun , Song Zhiyu , Yu Xinfeng
Published: October 2022

Background

Chemokine CXC motif receptor 7 (CXCR7) is an atypical G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that signals in a biased fashion. CXCL12/CXCR7 biased signal has been reported to play crucial roles in multiple stages of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the mechanism of CXCL12/CXCR7 biased signal in promoting CRC progression and metastasis remains obscure.

Results

We demonstrate that CXCR7 activation promotes EMT and upregulates the expression of Vimentin and doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) in CRC cells with concurrent repression of miR-124-3p and miR-188-5p through YAP1 nuclear translocation. Cell transfection and luciferase assay prove that these miRNAs regulate EMT by targeting Vimentin and DCLK1. More importantly, CXCL12/CXCR7/β-arrestin1-mediated biased signal induces YAP1 nuclear translocation, which functions as a transcriptional repressor by interacting with Yin Yang 1 (YY1) and recruiting YY1 to the promoters of miR-124-3p and miR-188-5p. Pharmacological inhibitor of YAP1 suppresses EMT and tumor metastasis upon CXCR7 activation in vivo in tumor xenografts of nude mice and inflammatory colonic adenocarcinoma models. Clinically, the expression of CXCR7 is positively correlated with nuclear YAP1 levels and EMT markers.

Conclusions

Our studies reveal a novel mechanism and clinical significance of CXCL12/CXCR7 biased signal in promoting EMT and invasion in CRC progression. These findings highlight the potential of targeting YAP1 nuclear translocation in hampering CXCL12/CXCR7 biased signal-induced metastasis of colorectal cancer.
EA-ADMM: noisy tensor PARAFAC decomposition based on element-wise average ADMM
Authors: Yue Gang , Sun Zhuo
Published: October 2022

Tensor decomposition is widely used to exploit the internal correlation in multi-way data analysis and process for communications and radar systems. As one of the main tensor decomposition methods, CANDECOMP/PARAFAC decomposition has advantages of uniqueness and interpretation properties which are significant in practical applications. However, traditional decomposition method is sensitive to both predefined rank and noise that results in inaccurate tensor decomposition. In this paper, we propose a improved algorithm called the Element-wise Average Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers by minimizing the sum of all factors’ trace norm and the noise variance. Our algorithm could overcome the dependence on predefined rank in traditional decomposition algorithms and alleviate the impact of noise. Moreover, this algorithm can be transferred to solve the problem of tensor completion conveniently. The simulation results show that our proposed algorithm could decompose the noisy tensor to the factors with above 90% similarity in various SNR and also interpolate the incomplete tensor with higher similar coefficient and lower relative reconstruction error when the missing rate is less than 0.5.
Effect of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model on health programs: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Junghee , Jang Jaeun , Kim Bora , Lee Kyung Hee
Published: October 2022

Background

The predisposing, reinforcing, and enabling constructs in educational diagnosis and evaluation policy, regulatory, and organizational constructs in educational and environmental development (PRECEDE-PROCEED) model has been used as a theoretical framework to guide health promotion strategies to prevent chronic diseases and improve the quality of life. However, there is a lack of evidence as to whether applying the PRECEDE-PROCEED model effectively improves health outcomes. This study aimed to systematically review intervention studies that applied the PRECEDE-PROCEED model and examine its effectiveness. 

Methods

In December 2020, seven databases were systematically searched. The quality of studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The outcome of interest for the meta-analysis was knowledge.

Results

In total, 26 studies were systematically reviewed. Most studies provided educational programs as the main intervention for various population groups. Symptom or disease management and health-related behavior promotion were the most common topics, and education was the most frequently used intervention method. The PRECEDE-PROCEED model was applied in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the intervention programs. Eleven studies were included in the meta-analysis, which showed that interventions using the PRECEDE-PROCEED model significantly improved knowledge.

Conclusions

This study indicated that individuals are more likely to engage in health-related behaviors with better knowledge. Thus, the PRECEDE-PROCEED model can be used as the theoretical framework for health promotion interventions across population groups, and these interventions are particularly effective with regard to knowledge improvement.
Interventions to mitigate vaping misinformation: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Kumar Navin , Hampsher Sam , Walter Nathan , Nyhan Kate , De Choudhury Munmun
Published: October 2022

Background

The impact of misinformation about vapes’ relative harms compared with smoking may lead to increased tobacco-related burden of disease. To date, no systematic efforts have been made to chart interventions that mitigate vaping-related misinformation. We plan to conduct a scoping review that seeks to fill gaps in the current knowledge of interventions that mitigate vaping-related misinformation.

Methods

A scoping review focusing on interventions that mitigate vaping-related misinformation will be conducted. We will search (no date restrictions) MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, Global Health, ERIC, and Sociological Abstracts. Gray literature will be identified using Disaster Lit, Google Scholar, Open Science Framework, governmental websites, and preprint servers (e.g., EuropePMC, PsyArXiv, MedRxiv, JMIR Preprints). Study selection will conform to Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewers’ Manual 2020 Methodology for JBI Scoping Reviews. Only English language, original studies will be considered for inclusion. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. A narrative summary of findings will be conducted. Data analysis will involve quantitative (e.g., frequencies) and qualitative (e.g., content and thematic analysis) methods. Where possible, a single effect size of exposure to the mitigation of vaping-related misinformation will be calculated per sample.

Similarly, where possible, each study will be coded for moderating characteristics to find and account for systematic differences in the size of the effect or outcome that is being analyzed. Quality will be appraised with the study quality assessment tools utilized by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

Findings will be subjected to several different publication bias tests: Egger’s regression test, Begg and Mazumdar’s ran correlation test, and generation of a funnel plot with effect sizes plotted against a corresponding standard error.

Discussion

Original research is urgently needed to design interventions to mitigate vaping-related misinformation. The planned scoping review will help to address this gap.

Systematic review registration

Open Science Framework osf/io/hy3tk.
Understanding the factors that impact effective uptake and maintenance of HIV care programs in South African primary health care clinics
Authors: van Heerden Alastair , Ntinga Xolani , Lippman Sheri A. , Leslie Hannah H. , Steward Wayne T.
Published: October 2022

Background

There is an increasingly urgent gap in knowledge regarding the translation of effective HIV prevention and care programming into scaled clinical policy and practice. Challenges limiting the translation of efficacious programming into national policy include the paucity of proven efficacious programs that are reasonable for clinics to implement and the difficulty in moving a successful program from research trial to scaled programming. This study aims to bridge the divide between science and practice by exploring health care providers’ views on what is needed to implement new HIV programs within existing HIV care.

Methods

We conducted 20 in-depth interviews with clinic managers and clinic program implementing staff and five key informant interviews with district health managers overseeing programming in the uMgungundlovu District of KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Qualitative data were analyzed using a template approach. A priori themes were used to construct templates of relevance, including current care context for HIV and past predictors of successful implementation. Data were coded and analyzed by these templates.

Results

Heath care providers identified three main factors that impact the integration of HIV programming into general clinical care: perceived benefits, resource availability, and clear communication. The perceived benefits of HIV programs hinged on the social validation of the program by early adopters. Wide program availability and improved convenience for providers and patients increased perceived benefit. Limited staffing capacity and a shortage of space were noted as resource constraints. Programs that specifically tackled these constraints through clinic decongestion were reported as being the most successful. Clear communication with all entities involved in clinic-based programs, some of which include external partners, was noted as central to maximizing program function and provider uptake.

Conclusions

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, new programs are continuously being developed for implementation at the primary health care level. A better understanding of the factors that facilitate and prevent programmatic success will improve public health outcomes. Implementation is likely to be most successful when programs capitalize on endorsements from early adopters, tackle resource constraints, and foster greater communication among partners responsible for implementation.
Study on Early-Age Elastic Modulus of FRC Using Electrical Resistivity and Resonance Frequency
Authors: Castillo Daniel , Hedjazi Saman , Kabir Ehsanul
Published: October 2022

The correlation between surface electrical resistivity and modulus of elasticity of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) was studied within early ages in this study as a novel nondestructive method for predicting the modulus of elasticity of FRC. In addition to the relationship of the two quantities, the influence of various discrete fibers such as glass, nylon, polypropylene, and steel on the early age properties of FRC was investigated. Twenty-one FRC mixes were designed and tested; including four fiber types, three different fiber volume fractions for each fiber type, and three different water-to-cement ratios for all the different mixes. The surface electrical resistivity meter and resonance testing gauge were used to measure each specimen’s surface electrical resistivity and modulus of elasticity. Early-age dynamic modulus of FRC may be predicted using the mechanical properties and dimension of the fiber, according to proposed mathematical calculations. Statistical analysis was performed on the experimental results and the results acquired by the proposed equations, to examine and proof the accuracy of the proposed equations. The acceptable coefficient of variation of 5–9 percent confirmed the good agreement between the measured and predicted values.
Poultry genetic heritage cryopreservation and reconstruction: advancement and future challenges
Authors: Sun Yanyan , Li Yunlei , Zong Yunhe , Mehaisen Gamal M. K. , Chen Jilan
Published: October 2022

Poultry genetics resources, including commercial selected lines, indigenous breeds, and experimental lines, are now being irreversibly lost at an alarming rate due to multiple reasons, which further threats the future livelihood and academic purpose. Collections of germplasm may reduce the risk of catastrophic loss of genetic diversity by guaranteeing that a pool of genetic variability is available to ensure the reintroduction and replenishment of the genetic stocks. The setting up of biobanks for poultry is challenging because the high sensitiveness of spermatozoa to freezing–thawing process, inability to cryopreserve the egg or embryo, coupled with the females being heterogametic sex. The progress in cryobiology and biotechnologies have made possible the extension of the range of germplasm for poultry species available in cryobanks, including semen, primordial germ cells, somatic cells and gonads. In this review, we introduce the state-of-the-art technologies for avian genetic resource conservation and breed reconstruction, and discuss the potential challenges for future study and further extending of these technologies to ongoing and future conservation efforts.
The self-efficacy in distress tolerance scale (SE-DT): a psychometric evaluation
Authors: Alfonsson Sven , Mardula Karolina , Toll Christine , Isaksson Martina , Wolf-Arehult Martina
Published: October 2022

Background

Skills training is believed to be essential in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and is also offered as a standalone intervention. There is a need to better understand each skills module’s separate contribution to treatment outcomes. Several assessment instruments are available, but none of them provides specific information about patients’ perceived ability to use skills promoting distress tolerance. The aim of the present study was to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of a Swedish adaptation of the General Self-Efficacy scale (GSE) for skills use in distress tolerance – the Self-Efficacy in Distress Tolerance scale (SE-DT).

Methods

Cross-sectional and longitudinal data were gathered in a non-clinical (NC) community sample (n = 407) and a clinical psychiatric (CP) sample (n = 46). Participants in the NC sample were asked to complete a set of 19 self-report instruments, including the SE-DT, and 45 participants repeated the assessment after 2 weeks. The patients in the CP sample filled out a subset of eight instruments; twenty patients repeated the assessment after completing a treatment intervention including mindfulness skills and distress tolerance skills or emotion regulation skills.

Results

The analyses showed that the SE-DT is unidimensional with high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = .92) and good test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation = .74). The SE-DT also showed good convergent and divergent validity, demonstrating positive correlations with general self-efficacy and self-compassion, and negative correlations with difficulties in emotion regulation, psychiatric symptoms, and borderline symptoms. The SE-DT showed sensitivity to change, when pre- and post-treatment assessments were compared (Cohen’sd = 0.82).

Discussion

This is preliminary evidence that the SE-DT has adequate to good psychometric properties, supporting the use of a total sum score. The results indicate that the SE-DT can adequately measure the construct of self-efficacy with regard to dealing with distress and emotional crises. The instrument enables continued investigation of standalone skills training and the specific contribution of distress tolerance skills to treatment outcomes in DBT. Further studies are needed to investigate whether these results are valid in other populations. In addition, the field would benefit from a common definition of distress tolerance.