bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Markers of remodeling in subcutaneous adipose tissue are strongly associated with overweight and insulin sensitivity in healthy non-obese men
Authors: Åkra Sissel , Aksnes Tonje A. , Flaa Arnljot , Eggesbø Heidi B. , Opstad Trine Baur , Njerve Ida U. , Seljeflot Ingebjørg
Published: March 2020

Background Alteration in extracellular matrix (ECM) in adipose tissues (AT) has been associated with insulin resistance, diabetes and obesity. Aim To investigate whether selected biomarkers of ECM remodeling in AT associate with the amount and distribution of abdominal AT and with insulin sensitivity and other glucometabolic variables. Materials and Methods Subcutaneous AT and fasting blood samples were collected in 103 middle-aged healthy non-obese men. Gene expression in AT was determined by RT-PCR and distribution of AT by computed tomography, separated into subcutaneous, deep subcutaneous and visceral AT. Circulating levels were determined by ELISA, and insulin sensitivity was measured by glucose clamp technique, assessing glucose disposal rate (GDR). Results Metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)-1 and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 expression in AT correlated significantly to the amount of AT in all compartments (r s =0.41-0.53, all p ≤0.01), and to insulin sensitivity, insulin, C-peptide, waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) (r s =0.25–0.57, all p ≤0.05). When dichotomizing the glucometabolic variables at median levels the expression of MMP-9 was 5.3 fold higher in subjects with insulin sensitivity below median (GDR<6.3mg/kg/min) ( p =0.002) and 3.1 fold higher in subjects with BMI above median level (>23.5kg/m 2 ) ( p =0.013). Galectin-3 did not associate with the amount of AT, but inversely with insulin and c.peptide ((p<0.01m both). Conclusion In our healthy non-obese middle-aged population AT-expressed genes, central in remodeling of ECM, associated strongly with the amount of abdominal AT, overweight and insulin sensitivity, indicating AT-remodeling to be important also in non-obese individuals. The remodeling process seems furthermore to play a central role for glucometabolic disturbances.
Isolated meniscal ramp lesion without obvious ACL rupture
Authors: Jiang Jun , Ni Lei , Chen Jian
Published: March 2020

Background To study isolated meniscal ramp lesion without obvious ACL rupture, analysis its clinical characteristics and evaluate clinical effect of all-inside horizontal mattress suture. Methods From 2015-2017, there are 20 isolated meniscal ramp lesion patients without obvious ACL rupture in our hospital. These isolated ramp lesions were arthroscopically repaired through all-inside horizontal mattress suturing method with 12 0 Mitek Omnispan meniscal repairing system. MRI was performed preoperatively and postoperatively 3 months later during follow-up. The Tegner-lysholm score and VAS score were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively at 2 years follow-up. T-test was performed to detect statistical significance. Results MRI postoperatively 3 months later shows healing of the isolated ramp lesion. Postoperatively at 2 years follow-up, VAS score was significantly decreased and Tegner-lysholm score was significantly raised comparing preoperatively. All patients recover their knee function without pain, including walking, stairs climbing and descending, squatting et al. Conclusion Isolated meniscal ramp lesion without obvious ACL rupture may exist because of ACL longitudinal splits. Through all-inside horizontal mattress suturing method with 12 0 Mitek Omnispan meniscal repairing system, isolated ramp lesion can be repaired through routine anterolateral and anteromedial portal.
Risk of opportunistic infections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis initiating abatacept: cumulative clinical trial data
Authors: Simon Teresa A , Dong Lixian , Winthrop Kevin L.
Published: March 2020

Background : To evaluate incidence of opportunistic infections (OIs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with abatacept in clinical trials. Methods : This pooled analysis of 16 randomized, double-blind/open-label trials, with ≥1 abatacept (intravenous or subcutaneous) arm, and with/without placebo control covered cumulative (controlled short-term and open-label long-term) abatacept exposure periods. OIs were analyzed separately in controlled (abatacept and placebo individually) and cumulative periods. OIs were identified using a prespecified list; events were independently adjudicated. Unadjusted incidence rates (IRs; per 100 patient-years) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results : In cumulative periods, 7,044 patients received abatacept, with mean (standard deviation) duration of exposure of 36.9 (26.2) months (21,335 patient-years of exposure). IRs (95% CI) of OIs for abatacept were low in both controlled (0.17 [0.05–0.43]), placebo (0.56 [0.22–1.15]), and cumulative (0.21 [0.15–0.28]) periods. There was 1 case of tuberculosis in both the abatacept (IR [95% CI]: 0.04 [0.00-0.24]) and placebo (IR [95% CI]: 0.08 [0.00-0.44]) groups during the controlled periods; 16 verified tuberculosis cases (IR [95% CI]: 0.08 [0.05-0.12]) were reported in the cumulative period. Herpes zoster was reported numerically more often with abatacept (IR 1.9 [1.4–2.5]), versus placebo (1.7 [1.1–2.6]) in the controlled periods; within the cumulative period, herpes zoster IR (95% CI) was 1.53 (1.36–1.71) for abatacept-treated patients. Conclusion : In controlled periods of the clinical trials, abatacept-treated patients had similarly low rates of OIs compared with placebo-treated patients. Overall, OI rates were similar among abatacept-treated patients in the controlled and cumulative periods.
Improvement of a Delayed Swallowing Reflex with Treatment in Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Ohkoshi Akira , Kato Kengo , Ogawa Takenori , Nakanome Ayako , Ishii Ryo , Katori Yukio
Published: March 2020

Background The latency of the swallowing reflex is an important factor causing dysphagia in head and neck cancer patients. Although there are many reports comparing swallowing function before and after treatment, few studies have focused on the latency of the swallowing reflex. The aim of this retrospective study was to clarify the changes in the latency of the swallowing reflex before and after treatment. Methods The latency of the swallowing reflex was quantified using the time from the injection of 1 ml of distilled water into the pharynx through a nasal catheter to the onset of swallowing. Results The latency time of the swallowing reflex was significantly decreased 3 months after treatment compared to before treatment. Significant reduction was also observed in patients with pharyngeal cancer who underwent chemoradiation therapy. Conclusions This retrospective study showed that a delayed swallowing reflex improved with treatment in advanced head and neck cancer patients.
Predicting Amyloid Pathology in Mild Cognitive Impairment Using Radiomics Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Park Yae Won , Choi Dongmin , Park Mina , Ahn Sung Jun , ahn Sung Soo , Suh Sang Hyun , Lee Seung-Koo
Published: March 2020

Background: Noninvasive identification of amyloid β (Aβ) is important in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients for better clinical management. This study aimed to evaluate whether radiomics features in the hippocampus in MCI improve the prediction of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Aβ 42 status when integrated with clinical and genetic profiles.Methods: A total of 407 MCI subjects from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative were allocated to the training (n = 324) and test (n = 83) sets. Radiomics features (n = 214) from the bilateral hippocampi were extracted from T1-weighted images of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A previously defined cutoff (< 192 pg/mL) was applied for CSF Aβ 42 status. After feature selection, random forest with subsampling methods were trained to predict the CSF Aβ 42 with three models: 1) a radiomics model; 2) a clinical model based on clinical and genetic profiles including demographics, APOE ε4 genotype, and neuropsychological tests; and 3) a combined model based on radiomics and clinical profiles. The prediction performance of the classifier was validated in the test set using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: The radiomics model identified 33 radiomics features to predict CSF Aβ 42 , which showed an AUC of 0.674 in the best performing radiomics model in the test set. The clinical model identified 6 clinical features to predict CSF Aβ 42 , which showed an AUC of 0.758 in the best performing clinical model in the test set. The combined model based on radiomics and clinical profiles identified a total of 37 features (32 from radiomics and 5 from clinical features), showing an AUC of 0.823 in the best performing combined model test set, which showed the highest performance among the three models. Conclusions: Radiomics model from MRI can help predict CSF Aβ 42 status in MCI patients and potentially triage the patients for the invasive and costly Aβ test.
Prediction of Drug-target interactions from heterogeneous information network based on LINE embedding model
Authors: Ji Bo-Ya , You Zhu-Hong , Jiang Han-Jing , Guo Zhen-Hao , Zheng Kai
Published: March 2020

Background: The prediction of potential drug-protein target interactions (DTIs) not only provides a better comprehension of biological processes but also is critical for identifying new drugs. However, due to the disadvantages of costly and high time-consuming traditional experiments, only a small section of interactions between drugs and targets in the database is verified experimentally. Therefore, it is meaningful and important to develop new computational methods with good performance for predicting DTIs. At present, many existing computational methods only utilize a single type of molecule without paying attention to the interactions and influences between other types of molecules. Methods: In this work, we developed a novel network embedding-based heterogeneous information integration model to predict potential DTIs. Firstly, a heterogeneous information network is built by combining the known associations among protein, drug, lncRNA, disease, and miRNA. Secondly, the Large-scale Information Network Embedding (LINE) model is used to learn behavior information of nodes in the network. Hence, the known drug-protein interaction pairs can be represented as a combination of attribute information (e.g. protein sequences information and drug molecular fingerprints) and behavior information of themselves. Thirdly, the Random Forest classifier is used for training and predicting. Results: In the results, under the 5-fold cross validation, our method obtained 85.83% prediction accuracy with 80.47% sensitivity at the AUC of 92.33%. Moreover, in the case studies of three common drugs, the top 10 candidate targets have 8 (Caffeine), 7 (Clozapine) and 6 (Pioglitazone) are respectively verified to be associated with corresponding drugs. Conclusions: In short, these results indicate that our method can be a powerful tool for predicting drug-protein interactions and finding unknown targets for certain drugs or unknown drugs for certain targets.
Characterization, Identification and Expression Profiling of Genome-Wide R-Genes in Melon and Their Putative Roles in Bacterial Fruit Blotch Resistance
Authors: Islam Md. Rafiqul , Hossain Mohammad Rashed , Jesse Denison Michael Immanuel , Jung Hee-Jeong , Kim Hoy-Taek , Park Jong-In , Nou Ill-Sup
Published: March 2020

Background Bacterial fruit blotch (BFB), a disease caused by Acidovorax citrulli , results in significant economic losses in melon. The causal QTLs and genes for resistance to this disease have yet to be identified. Resistance ( R )-genes play vital roles in resistance to plant diseases. Since the complete genome sequence of melon is available and genome-wide identification of R -genes has been performed for this important crop, comprehensive expression profiling may lead to the identification of putative candidate genes that function in the response to BFB. Results We identified melon accessions that are resistant and susceptible to BFB through repeated bioassays and characterized all 70 R -genes in melon, including their gene structures, chromosomal locations, domain organizations, motif distributions, and syntenic relationships. Several disease resistance-related domains were identified, including NBS, TIR, LRR, CC, RLK, and DUF domains, and the genes were categorized based on the domains of their encoded proteins. In addition, we profiled the expression patterns of the genes in melon accessions with contrasting levels of BFB resistance at 12 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 6 d after inoculation with A. citrulli via qRT-PCR. Six R -genes exhibited consistent expression patterns (MELO3C023441, MELO3C016529, MELO3C022157, MELO3C022146, MELO3C025518, and MELO3C004303), with higher expression levels in the resistant vs. susceptible accession. Conclusion We identified six putative candidate R -genes against BFB in melon. Upon functional validation, these genes could be targeted for manipulation via breeding and biotechnological approaches to improve BFB resistance in melon in the future.
Study on inhibitory effect of cinnamaldehyde on Salmonella based on iTRAQ technology
Authors: Yin Lizi , Chen Han , He Xuewen , Yin Zhongqiong , Fu Hualin , LIn Juchun , Geng Yi , He Changliang , Shu Gang , Liang Xiaoxia , Song Xu , Li Lixia , Zou Yuanfeng , Ouyang Ping
Published: March 2020

BackgroundSalmonella is one of the most concerned pathogenic bacterium worldwide. In our previous experiments, cinnamaldehyde showed prominent antibacterial effects on Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium), indicating that it could be developed as a novel therapeutic drugs for Salmonella.ResultsIn this assay, the mechanism of cinnamaldehyde inhibiting S. Typhimurium was investigated. We studied the antibacterial mechanism of cinnamaldehyde using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) with two-dimensional liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (2D-LC-MS/MS), combining with bioinformatics. There were 2,212 proteins detected by iTRAQ, of which 73 proteins were up-regulated, and 82 of proteins were down-regulated. The differently expressed proteins were connected with 10 cellular components, 9 molecular functions and 13 biological processes as well as 57 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. There were some differently expressed proteins involved into biosynthesis and metabolism of amino, redox reaction, energy metabolism, toxins and drug-resistance. Cinnamaldehyde may have the potential to become a novel drug for Salmonella infection.ConclusionsBased on the iTRAQ technology, this paper explores the mechanism of cinnamaldehyde on Salmonella typhimurium at the protein level, digs the target of action, lays a theoretical foundation for further exploration, and provides new ideas for the clinical use and development of cinnamaldehyde.Therefore, cinnamaldehyde may have the potential to be used combined with antibiotics.
Compared the Burden of Cardiovascular Disease attributable to Tobacco Exposure in China, Japan, USA and World
Authors: Wu Xiaomei , Zhu Bo , Xu Shuang , Liu Yong , Bi Yifei , shi jingpu
Published: March 2020

Background Tobacco exposure (TE) is the major contributor of CVD mortality, but few published studies on CVD mortality attributable to TE analyzed the possible reasons underlying the long-term trends in China. Methods The mortality data in China, Japan, USA and World were obtained from GBD 2017. The joinpoint regression was used to assess the magnitude and direction of trends over time for CVD mortality, and the age-period-cohort method was used to analyze the temporal trends of CVD mortality by age, period, and cohort. Results There was a significant downward trend in age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) of CVD attributable to smoking in four regions, but China has the smallest decline and the ASMR in China rose to the first rank in 2017. All the net drifts per year in four regions were negative, and the local drifts were below zero. The longitudinal age curves of the CVD mortality attributable to smoking increased in four regions and China had the largest increase. The period/cohort RRs indicated a decline, and China has the smallest decline. We further analyzed the trend of IHD and stroke, and found the morality, period/cohort RR of IHD in China was always in high level. Conclusions CVD mortality attributable to TE had declined in four regions, and it was at a high level in China. The proportion of IHD mortality attributable to TE had been similar to stroke, which had significantly changed the traditional cognition of CVD composition, and the control measure was not enough for IHD in China.
Cardiovascular outcomes associated with SGLT-2 inhibitors versus other glucose-lowering drugs in patients with type 2 diabetes: A real-world systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Chun-xing , Liang Shuo , Gao Lingyan , Liu Hua
Published: March 2020

Background Glucose lowering agents that reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events would be considered a major advance. Despite the reduction of cardiovascular risk by sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) has been confirmed by some large randomized controlled studies and systematic reviews, exact indicators of cardiovascular risk remained controversial. Whether consistent results can be obtained in clinical practice is unclear. Therefore, in this meta-analysis, we examined the real-world effect of SGLT-2i on cardiovascular outcome in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods We did a real-world systematic review and meta-analysis of cardiovascular outcome of SGLT-2i in patients with T2DM. We searched PubMed and Embase for trials published up to October 23, 2019. Data search and extraction were completed with a standardized data form and any discrepancies were resolved by consensus. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and all-cause mortality (ACM). Secondary outcomes were hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), atrial fibrillation (AF), myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, cardiovascular mortality (CVM), unstable angina (UA), heart failure (HF). Odds ratio (OR) with 95% CIs were pooled across trials, and cardiovascular outcomes were stratified by baseline incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), usage rate of cardiovascular benefit drug, follow-up period and region.Results Fourteen trials enrolling 3,157,259 patients were included. SGLT-2i reduced MACE (OR, 0.71; 95% CI 0.67,0.75, P<0.001) and ACM (OR, 0.53; 95% CI 0.49,0.57, P<0.001) compared to other glucose lowering drugs (oGLD). Compared with oGLD, SGLT-2i had significantly lowered the risk of HHF (OR, 0.56; 95% CI 0.46,0.68, P<0.001), MI (OR, 0.77; 95% CI 0.73,0.81, P<0.001), stroke (OR, 0.75; 95% CI 0.72,0.78, P<0.001), CVM (OR, 0.58; 95% CI 0.49,0.69, P<0.001) and HF(OR, 0.56; 95% CI 0.48,0.67, P<0.001), but there was no benefit from UA or AF. Subgroup analysis showed SGLT-2i reduced the risk of MACE, ACM, HHF, MI, stroke, CVM and HF with a similar benefit regardless of the incidence of CVD was (20-30)% or < 15%, (15-30)% and <15% have been treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), >80% and<70% have been treated with statins or both GLP-1RA and statins. SGLT-2i reduced the risk of ACM in low-risk population (P<0.001). No inconsistencies were found when stratification was performed at 1 or (3-4) years of follow-up. SGLT-2i showed similar cardiovascular benefits in the Nordic countries, Asia and the United States.Conclusions The predominant impact of SGLT-2i is on cardiovascular outcome driven predominantly by reduction in MACE, ACM, HHF, MI, stroke, CVM, HF, but not UA or AF. SGLT-2i have robust benefits on reducing MACE, ACM, HHF, MI, stroke, CVM and HF regardless of a history of usage rate of GLP-1RA and/or statins and /or metformin.
Antioxidant preconditioning improves therapeutic outcomes of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells through enhancing intrahepatic engraftment efficiency in a mouse liver fibrosis model
Authors: Liao Naishun , Shi Yingjun , Wang Yingchao , Liao Fangyu , Zhao Bixing , Zheng Youshi , Zeng Yongyi , Liu Xiaolong , Liu Jingfeng
Published: March 2020

Background: Although it has been pre-clinically suggested that adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADSCs)-based therapy could effectively treat chronic liver diseases, the hepatic engraftment of ADSCs is still extremely low, which severely limits their long-term efficacy for chronic liver diseases. This study was designed to investigate the impact of antioxidant preconditioning on hepatic engraftment efficiency and therapeutic outcomes of ADSC transplantation in liver fibrotic mice.Methods: Liver fibrosis model was established by using intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) in the male C57BL/6 mice. Subsequently, the ADSCs with or without antioxidant pretreatment (including melatonin and reduced glutathione (GSH)) were administrated into fibrotic mice via tail vein injection. Afterwards, the ADSC transplantation efficiency was analyzed by ex vivo imaging, and the liver functions were assessed by biochemical analysis and histopathological examination, respectively. Additionally, a typical H 2 O 2 -induced cell injury model was applied to mimic the cell oxidative injury to further investigate the protective effects of antioxidant preconditioning on cell migration, proliferation and apoptosis of ADSCs.Results: Our data showed that antioxidant preconditioning could enhance the therapeutic effects of ADSCs on liver function recovery by reducing the level of AST, ALT and TBIL, as well as the content of hepatic hydroxyproline and fibrotic area in liver tissues. Particularly, we also found that antioxidant preconditioning could enhance hepatic engraftment efficiency of ADSCs in liver fibrosis model through inhibiting oxidative injury.Conclusions: Antioxidant preconditioning could effectively improve therapeutic effects of ADSC transplantation for liver fibrosis through enhancing intrahepatic engraftment efficiency by reducing oxidative injuries. These findings might provide a practical strategy for enhancing ADSC transplantation and therapeutic efficiency.
Socioeconomic, Demographic, and Environmental Associated with Stunting among Children under Five Years old in Ethiopia: Evidence from Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey, 2016
Authors: Begashaw Getnet Bogale , Yohannes Yordanos Berihun
Published: March 2020

Background : Stunting is one of the most serious but least addressed health problems in the world. Adequate nutrition is essential for children’s health and development. Globally it is estimated that, directly or indirectly, for at least 35% of deaths in children less than five years of age. Under nutrition is also a major cause of disability preventing children who survive from reaching their full development potential. Methods: Statistical models that can treat the categorical response variable like binary logistic regression model will be employed. Beside this study will include Socio –economic and demographic factors; Sex and age of child, age of mother, Educational status, occupation, health status, religion, sex of household head, number of children under five years, Household income, family size, land ownership and time of cultivation, income source of household, wealth index as independent variables. Empty model, random intercept and fixed slope with random coefficient are the method of analyzing the dataset. Result: The prevalence of stunting among children ages under five years old were about 49.3%. Months of breastfeeding, educational level, and wealth index, currently pregnant and child food nutrient are significantly associated with stunting presence. The odds of stunting status of child from women who are pregnant is more likely to be stunted 4.157 compared to non-pregnant women controlling for other variables in the model and random effects at level two. Women who feed nutrient food to their child are 1.239 more likely to be stunted (OR=1.239) than women who didn’t feed nutrient food controlling for other variables in the model and random effects at level two. Conclusions : Age of child, breast feeding, sex, pregnant status, and food nutrient were found to be significantly associated with stunting in multilevel modeling of random coefficient model. Finally random coefficient model best fit the EDHS 2016 dataset. Therefore, interventions that focus on breast feeding, period of next pregnancy, food nutrient taken by children are required for improving child stunting in Ethiopia.
Functional benefits of corticosteroid and IVIG combination therapy in a coronary artery endothelial cell model of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Inoue Takashi , Murakami Shokei , Matsumoto Kenji , Matsuda Akio
Published: March 2020

Background: Kawasaki disease (KD) is the most common pediatric systemic vasculitides of unknown etiology. Recent clinical studies led to reappraisal of the usefulness of initial combination therapy of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) plus a corticosteroid for patients with severe KD. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the clinical benefits of early introduction of a corticosteroid to IVIG for severe KD patients remain unclear. We used cultured human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs), which mimic the main lesion sites of KD, in an attempt to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the clinical benefits accruing from adding a corticosteroid to standard IVIG therapy for patients with KD. Methods: HCAECs were stimulated with TNF-α, IL-1α or IL-1β in the presence and absence of IVIG and/or dexamethasone (DEX). The mRNA and protein concentrations for high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), IL-1α, IL-6 and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) in the culture supernatants were measured by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and ELISA, respectively. Apoptosis was evaluated by the caspase 3/7 activities. Results: DEX, but not IVIG, significantly inhibited apoptosis caused by inflammatory stimuli, resulting in effective reduction of HMGB1 and IL-1α protein release by HCAECs. As previously reported, DEX or IVIG alone significantly suppressed TNF-α-induced production of IL-6 and G-CSF and mRNA expression, but induction of those cytokines by IL-1s (IL-1α and IL-1β) was resistant to IVIG. Conclusions: A corticosteroid can effectively inhibit the release of HMGB1 and IL-1α, which may be involved in IVIG resistance in KD. Since IVIG does not have such beneficial anti-cytotoxic effects, adding a corticosteroid to standard IVIG therapy may help prevent the progression of IVIG resistance in KD.
Nephrological disorders and neurological involvement in pediatric primary Sjogren syndrome: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Zhao Jingya , Chen Qin , Zhu Yunyun , Zhao Meng , Liu Jun , Zhang Zhenzhong , Gong Xiaoting
Published: March 2020

Background: Sjögren syndrome(SS) is a rare disease in pediatrics, and little attention has been paid to the clinical feature in these patients. To date, there are few cases concern about neurological and nephrological disorders in childhood Sjögren syndrome. We describe a case of Sjögren syndrome in a 12-year-old girl who developed neurological disorders and interstitial nephritis and review the literature currently available on this topic. Case presentation: A 12-year-old girl was admitted to our hospital for arthritis and glucosuria. She was required to do labial gland and renal biopsy, because the positive for anti-nuclear antibody and anti-Sjögren syndrome B(anti-SSB) antibody. Then the biopsy was performed revealing the lymphocytic infiltrate in the small area and renal tubular interstitial damage,thus the diagnosis of Sjögren syndrome with tubular interstitial damage was made. Three months later, she presented again with headache, fever, nausea, vomiting and was recovered without drug therapy. Based on the patient's medical history, laboratory and imaging examination, and treatment, we speculate that the disorders of the nervous system were caused by the Sjögren syndrome. The girl has stable renal function and no residual nervous system damage in the next 1.5 years, but she underwent low dose prednisone therapy because of persistent renal glucosuria. Conclusion s: Nephrological disorders and neurological involvement are rare manifestations of Sjögren syndrome in children, and rarely presented as the initial symptoms. It should be suspected in children presenting with unexplained renal diseases, neurological abnormalities, or unexplained fever. Although there is no guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of children Sjögren syndrome are currently available, early recognition and the appropriate treatment of renal damage and neurologic involvement would improve prognosis and prevent complications. Keywords : Neurologic manifestations, Kidney diseases, Sjogren’s syndrome, Children
Reduced serum VGF levels are linked with suicide risk in Chinese Han patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: wang chuang , Li Xingxing , Ge Huifei , Wu Xiangping , Qi Gangqiao , Chen Zan , Yu Chang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yu Haihang , Zhou Dongsheng
Published: March 2020

Background VGF is a neuropeptide that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD). However, no studies have yet investigated VGF levels in patients with MDD who are at risk of suicide. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether serum VGF levels are related to suicide risk in patients with MMD. Methods A total of 107 patients with MDD and 40 normal control participated in the present study. The risk of suicide was assessed using the Nurses Global Assessment of Suicide Risk (NGASR). On this basis, 60 patients were assigned to a high-risk group (NGASR≥9) and 47 were assigned to a low-risk group (NGASR<9). The severity of depression was measured using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). Levels of serum VGF were determined using a double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Serum VGF levels in the high-risk group (883.34±139.67 pg/mL) were significantly lower than in the low-risk group (1020.56±131.76 pg/mL) and in the control group (1107.00±155.38 pg/mL) (F=31.90, p<0.001). In patients with MDD, suicide risk was significantly negatively correlated with VGF levels (r = -0.55, p=0.001). Conclusions Reduced serum VGF levels are related to risk of suicide in patients with MDD, so VGF may be one key biomarker of suicide risk in MDD.
Comparative analysis of the effects of antidepressant therapy on emotional improvement in patients with Parkinson’s disease complicated with depression
Authors: Chen Jing , Xu Pengfei , Guo Xunyi , Zou Tao
Published: March 2020

Objective This study aimed to compare the effects of different antidepressant therapies on emotional improvement in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) complicated with depression, and to explore effective strategies in PD treatment. Methods A total of 328 patients with idiopathic PD admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University and Second People’s Hospital of Guiyang were consecutively selected. The 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-17) was used to screen whether patients with PD exhibited depressive symptoms. The treatment group included 131 eligible patients, but 118 completed the study. The patients were randomized to conventional treatment, conventional treatment + escitalopram, conventional treatment + pramipexole, and conventional treatment + transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) groups. The effects of antidepressant therapies were assessed using the HAMD score reduction rate after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. Results The prevalence of PD complicated with depression was 53.4%, and was significantly higher in females than in males. The response rate in the conventional treatment, escitalopram, pramipexole, and TMS groups was 34.48%, 93.10%, 87.09%, and 75.86%, respectively. This indicated that the escitalopram group had the best efficacy. After 2 and 4 weeks of treatment, the HAMD scores of each group were significantly lower than those before treatment. The reduction in HAMD scores was the most significant in the pramipexole group after 2 weeks of treatment and in the escitalopram group after 4 weeks of treatment. Conclusion Escitalopram, pramipexole, and high-frequency TMS had better efficacy in patients with PD complicated with depression, with escitalopram being the most effective.
Trends in Measures of Handgrip Strength from 2014 to 2017 Among Korean Adolescents using the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data
Authors: Kang Yunkoo , Kim Jieun , Kim Seung , Park Sowon , Lim Hyunjung , Koh Hong
Published: March 2020

Background: The incidence of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease among adolescents is increasing worldwide. Adolescents are also known to have sarcopenia along with these conditions. Measuring handgrip strength is a useful method to evaluate sarcopenia. No study has shown the trends of muscle quality (handgrip-to-weight) among Korean adolescents by year. This study aimed to determine the trends of handgrip strength among Korean adolescents using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).Methods: Data of 2,304 adolescents (1,227 boys; 1,077 girls; age, 10–18 years) who participated in the KNHANES between 2014 and 2017 were obtained. Muscle quality was estimated by dividing handgrip strength by body weight (handgrip-to-weight ratio). The handgrip-to-weight ratios were categorized by age, sex, and year. Results: Handgrip strength in adolescents decreased from 28.67kg in 2014 to 27kg in 2017. (P for trend<0.05) The handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased from 51.48 in 2014 to 48.18 in 2017 (P for trend<0.05). The handgrip strength and handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased significantly among boys and girls over the years 2014–2017 (P for trend<0.05). Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that the handgrip-to-weight ratio decreased in Korean adolescents from the years 2014 to 2017, and a declining overall ratio indicates a decrease in the quality of muscles among Korean adolescents. Hence, there is a need to review the health status of Korean adolescents, and measures should be taken to prevent its deterioration.
Synergistic inhibition of metastatic breast cancer by dual-chemotherapy with excipient-free rhein/DOX nanodispersions
Authors: Wang Ruoning , Yang Yujie , Yang Mengmeng , Yuan Dandan , Huang Jinyu , Chen Rui , Wang Honglan , Hu Lihong , Di Liuqing , Li Junsong
Published: March 2020

Background: The treatment of metastatic cancer continues to be very challenging worldwide. Notably, excipient-free nanodispersions that are entirely composed of pharmaceutically active molecules are regarded as promising candidates for the next generation of drug formulations. These molecules are mainly formulated from the self-assembly of drug molecules that enable the safe and effective delivery of therapeutic drugs to local diseased lesions. Herein, we developed a novel and green approach for preparing nanoparticles via the self-assembly of rhein (RHE) and doxorubicin (DOX) molecules, named RHE/DOX nanoparticles (RD NPs); this assembly was associated with π−π stacking interactions and did not involve any organic solvents. Results：Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showed that DOX molecules tend to assemble around RHE molecules through intermolecular forces. With the advantage of nanosizing, RD NPs improved the intracellular drug retention of DOX. As a dual-drug-loaded nanoformulation, the toxicity of RD NPs to tumor cells in vitro was synergistically enhanced. The combination of DOX and RHE in nanoparticles exhibited a synergistic effect with a combination index (CI) value of 0.51 and showed a stronger ability to induce cell apoptosis compared to that of free DOX. Furthermore, RD NPs treatment not only effectively suppressed primary tumor growth but also successfully inhibited tumor metastasis both in vitro and in vivo, with a good safety profile. Conclusion: The generation of pure nanodrugs via a self-assembly approach might be an option and may provide inspiration for the fabrication of new excipient-free nanodispersions, especially for two small molecular antitumor drugs that could potentially have synergistic antiproliferation effects against metastatic breast cancer.
ROS-triggered self-accelerating drug release nanosystem with charge conversion for enhanced cancer therapy
Authors: Zhang Xinyi , Zhu Tiantian , Miao Yaxin , Zhou Lu , Zhang Weifang
Published: March 2020

Background: The enhancement tumor retention and of cellular uptake of drugs are important factors in maximizing anticancer therapy and minimizing side effects of encapsulated drugs. Herein, a delivery nanoplatform with a pH-triggered charge-reversal capability and self-amplifiable reactive oxygen species (ROS) level inducing drug release pattern was constructed by encapsulating doxorubicin (DOX) in pH/ROS-responsive polymeric micelle.Results: The surface charge of this system can be converted from negative to positive for enhanced tumor cell uptake in response to the weakly acidic tumor tissue. In addition, methionine-based system was dissociated in a ROS-rich intracellular environment, resulting in a phase transition and the release of DOX. Then, the exposed α-tocopheryl succinate (α-TOS) segments can be capable of producing ROS, which further induced the self-amplifiable disassembly of the micelles and drug release. Conclusions: We confirmed efficient DOX delivery into cancer cells, upregulation of tumoral ROS level and induction of the apoptotic capability in vitro. The system exhibited outstanding tumor inhibition capability in vivo, indicating that dual stimuli nanosytem would be great potential as an anticancer drug delivery platform.
COQ8B nephropathy: early detection and optimal treatment
Authors: Song Xiaoxiang , Fang Xiaoyan , Tang Xiaoshan , Cao Qi , Zhai Yihui , Chen Jing , Liu Jialu , Zhang Zhiqing , Xiang Tianchao , Qian Yanyan , Wu Bingbing , WANG Huijun , Zhou Wenhao , Liu Cuihua , Shen Qian , Xu Hong , Rao jia
Published: March 2020

Background Mutations in COQ8B as a defect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) cause steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Methods To define the clinical course and prognosis of COQ8B nephropathy, we retrospective assessed the genotype, phenotype in patients with COQ8B mutations from Chinese Children Genetic Kidney Disease Database. We performed the comparing study of renal outcome following CoQ10 treatment and renal transplantation between early genetic detection and delay genetic detection group. Results We identified 20 (5.8%) patients with bi-allelic mutations of COQ8B screening from patients with SRNS, non-nephrotic proteinuria, or CKD of unknown origin. Patients with COQ8B mutations showed a largely renal-limited phenotype presenting with proteinuria and/or advanced CKD at time of diagnosis. Renal biopsy uniformly showed FSGS. Proteinuria was decreased, whereas the renal function was preserved in five patients following CoQ10 administration combined with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. The renal survival analysis disclosed a significantly better outcome in early genetic detection group than in delay genetic detection group (Kaplan-Meier plot and log rank test, p=0.037). Seven patients underwent deceased donor renal transplantation without recurrence of proteinuria or graft failure. Blood pressure showed decreased significantly during 6 to 12 months post transplantation. Conclusions COQ8B mutations are one of the most common causes of adolescent-onset proteinuria and/or CKD of unknown etiology in the Chinese children. Early detection of COQ8B nephropathy following CoQ10 supplementation combined with ACEI could slow the progression of renal dysfunction. Renal transplantation in patients with COQ8B nephropathy showed no recurrence of proteinuria.
Perceptions of beneficiaries and health professionals regarding a conditional cash transfer program to improve pregnancy follow-up: a qualitative analysis of the NAITRE randomized controlled study
Authors: MARCEAU AURELIE GODARD , Meunier-Beillard Nicolas , Deruelle Philippe , Morin Mathieu , Virtos Claude , Echman-Lacroix Astrid , Debras Elodie , Laforet Laurent , Bardou Marc
Published: March 2020

Background: Economic incentives have been used in several countries to improve pregnancy follow-up, to encourage families to bring their infants to see a doctor, and to promote school attendance. However, these conditional cash transfer programs (CCTs) are often subject to criticism. The NAITRE study, which is currently underway in France, assesses the use of CCT to promote prenatal care in women with low socioeconomic backgrounds and has also been the focus of such criticism. The objective of the qualitative study was to analyse how the CCT is perceived by the women and health professionals involved in the project. These data are essential for in-depth understanding of the elements that could encourage or deter a generalization of the process. Methods: A multicentre, cross-sectional, qualitative study was conducted among 26 women included in the NAITRE trial and 8 health professionals (physicians and midwives). All data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and transcribed in their entirety. A thematic content analysis was then used to generate the results. Results: In the interviews, the women expressed surprise regarding the offer of a cash incentive. However, they did not perceive the CCT negatively, but saw it rather as a significant source of aid for women with limited financial resources. Some even expressed feeling as though they were supported far beyond the financial support. The health professionals were much less positive. Still, though they all stressed the ethical considerations related to the premise of the trial, they recognized the need for such an evaluation. Conclusions: In a country where access to health care is facilitated by a nationalized health insurance system, the use of a CCT to improve medical follow-up during pregnancy raises ethical questions for the health professionals involved. However, an analysis of the interviews conducted with the women who received compensation showed that they did not feel stigmatized. While the women generally reported that the CCT money allowed them to better prepare for the birth, none indicated that they changed their behaviour relative to medical follow-up during the pregnancy.
Influences on NHS Health Check behaviours: a systematic review
Authors: Atkins Lou , Stefanidou Chryssa , Chadborn Tim , Thompson Katherine , Michie Susan , Lorencatto Fabi
Published: March 2020

Background National Health Checks were introduced in the English National Health Service (NHS) in 2009 to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks and events. Following Public Health England’s (PHE’s) 2017 Digital review, NHS Health Checks were identified as a Digital Exemplar for PHE forming part of the Predictive Prevention programme, setting out the government’s vision for putting prevention at the heart of the nation’s health. This study applied behavioural science frameworks to: i) identify behaviours and actors relevant to uptake, delivery and follow up of NHS Health Checks and influences on these behaviours and; ii) signpost to example intervention content, with a focus on digital intervention development. Methods A systematic review of studies reporting NHS Health Check-related behaviours of patients, health care professionals (HCPs) and commissioners. Influences on behaviours were coded using theory-based models: COM-B and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Potential intervention types and behaviour change techniques (BCTs) were suggested to target key influences. Results We identified 37 studies reporting nine behaviours and influences for eight of these. The most frequently identified influences were physical opportunity including HCPs having space and time to deliver NHS Health Checks and patients having money to adhere to recommendations to change diet and physical activity. Other key influences were motivational, such as beliefs about consequences about the value of NHS Health Checks and behaviour change, and social, such as influences of others on behaviour change. The following techniques are suggested for websites or smartphone apps: Adding objects to the environment, e.g. provide HCPs with electronic schedules to guide timely delivery of Health Checks to target physical opportunity, Social support (unspecified) , e.g. include text suggesting patients to ask a colleague to agree in advance to join them in taking the ‘healthy option’ lunch at work; Information about health consequences , e.g. quotes and/or videos from patients talking about the health benefits of changes they have made. Conclusions Through the application of behavioural science we identified key behaviours and their influences which informed recommendations for digital intervention content. To ascertain the extent to which this reflects existing interventions we recommend a review of relevant evidence.
Information Processing of Health Warning Messages on Cigarette Packs in Youth: An Application of Elaboration Likelihood Model
Authors: Shahi Fatemeh , Pourrazavi Sara , Kouzekanani Kamiar , Jafarabadi Mohammad Asghari , Allahverdipour Hamid
Published: March 2020

Background The study examined the processing route of anti-smoking messages and influencing cognitive factors by using the Elaboration Likelihood Model. Methods The non-probability sample for the cross-sectional study consisted of 387 smokers in the age range of 18 to 30 years old in Tabriz, Iran. A researcher-designed questionnaire was used for the purpose of data collection. No causal inferences were drawn due to the non-experimental nature of the study. Results It was found that smokers often processed warning messages through the central route. Perceived severity, smoking abstinence self-efficacy, and psychological dependence were predictors of message processing through the central route. The results supported the conceptual model of cognitional predictors of the processing route. Conclusions To design and execute effective health warning messages to quit smoking, it is recommended to consider cognitive factors as a means to enhance critical thinking about the content of the message.
Over reliance on pesticides and poor handling practices characterize intensive vegetable farming: case of selected smallholders in southwestern Uganda
Authors: Rwakipamba Eziron , Sseremba Godfrey , Byalebeka John , Ssekandi Joseph , Mwine Julius
Published: March 2020

This study investigated the extent of pesticide use and poor handling practices which characterize intensive vegetable farming, among smallholder vegetable farmers in south western Uganda. 100% of respondents were using pesticides for control of pest and diseases, and over 78% applied pesticides on a twice-a-week basis. Majority of farmers used pesticides in violation of recommended procedures/rules; use of unsafe storage facilities, ignore risks and safety instructions, and did not calibrate the spray equipment, and disposed of containers unsafely. Poor pesticide-handling practices were associated with farmers’ lack of knowledge and awareness in use and handling, inadequate extension services, low education levels, and the everyday context in which pesticides were bought and used. A careful approach to analyze pesticide use and handling practices to systematically identify ways to change the current farmers’ practices needs to be adopted or undertaken.