bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THEORETICAL AND APPLIED ASPECTS OF THE INTERFERON SYSTEM: TO THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DISCOVERY OF INTERFERONS
Authors: Ershov F. I. , Narovlyansky A. N.
Published: April 2020

The review contains a brief analysis of the 60-year history of the discovery, study and medical application of interferons, a new group of remarkable proteins that have found wide medical application in the therapy of virological, oncological, neurological, ophthalmic and other pathologies. Modern data on the classification of interferons and the mechanisms of their action are given. Particular attention is paid to the clinical use of medications of interferon and its inducers.
PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF BOVINE PESTIVIRUSES DETECTED IN SIBERIA
Authors: Glotov A. G. , Koteneva S. V. , Glotova T. I. , Yuzhakov A. G. , Maksyutov R. A. , Zaberezhnyy A. D.
Published: April 2020

The results of phylogenetic analysis of three species of bovine pestiviruses circulating in six regions of Siberia, as well as those detected in fetal embryonic serum (FBS) and continuous cell cultures, are presented. The typing was made based on comparison of sequences from the 5' untranslated region (5'-UTR) of the viral genome. Among the highly productive dairy cattle, circulation of five subtypes of the BVDV1 (a, b, d, f, r) and BVDV2 was established. The predominant subtype was 1b (48% positive samples). The number of subtypes of BVDV1 was as follows: BVDV1: 1а (8%), 1b (48%), 1d (8%), 1f (16%) и 1r (8%) and BVDV2 (12%). Cell cultures revealed BVDV1a. The distribution of types and subtypes of viruses had geographical differences. BVDV1b, BVDV1d, BVDV1f и BVDV1r were detected in cattle or persistently infected (PI) animals in farms with respiratory distress. BVDV 1a revealed in the serum of PI heifer without manifestation of clinical symptoms. BVDV2 were detected in cattle with pathology of reproduction. The presence of the BVDV3 (atypical pestivirus) of the Italian group was established in seven lots of FBS obtained from two manufacturers. No evidence has been found for circulating of the atypical virus among cattle of various breeds, including imported, reindeers and red deers. Studies on the molecular epizootology of pestiviruses can be used to select and optimize the control strategy and address the issue of vaccine use in a particular region.
ETIOLOGICAL STRUCTURE OF INFLUENZA AND OTHER ARVI IN ST. PETERSBURG DURING EPIDEMIC SEASONS 2012-2016
Authors: Pisareva M. M. , Eder V. A. , Buzitskaya Zh. V. , Musaeva T. D. , Afanaseva V. S. , Go A. A. , Obraztsova E. A. , Sukhovetskaya V. F. , Komissarov A. B.
Published: April 2020

The etiological structure of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections including their rate of incidence in St. Petersburg and Leningrad region during 4 epidemic seasons has been studied. Seasonality of some respiratory viruses was shown and peaks of circulation of RSV, adenovirus, parainfluenza viruses, rhinovirus, bocavirus, metapneumovirus and coronavirus were marked. The interference of influenza A viruses and RSV, RSV and rhinoviruses was highlighted. A high incidence of adenovirus infection in organized communities and RSV infection in children was revealed.
MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS ENHANCE IMMUNE RESPONSE AND PROTECTMICE AGAINST LETHAL HERPES VIRAL INFECTION
Authors: Klimova R. R. , Momotyuk E. D. , Demidova N. A. , Yarigina E. I. , Kushch A. A.
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate immunoregulatory and protective potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in a mouse model of lethal HSV1 infection. MSC were isolated from bone marrow of DBA mice and cultured in flasks with DMEM containing 10% FBS, insulin, transferrin, selenite, fibroblast growth factor, glutaminе and gentamicin. Antiviral activity was tested on HSV1-infected Vero cells. In vivo experiments were performed on DBA mice divided into 5 groups (10 animals each): group 1, intact (naïve) mice; group 2, intravenous (iv) MSC injection; group 3, intraperitoneal infection with 20 LD50 HSV1 followed by MSC injection; group 4, HSV1 infection followed by acyclovir (ACV) injection; group 5, HSV1 infection and iv injection of saline. Isolated cells were consistent with MSC morphologically, by adhesive ability and surface receptors. Conditioned media from MSC collected after 4-5 passages inhibited HSV1 infection in vitro by 64-70% and contained IL-6 and TNF-α, whose concentrations were 5- and 20-fold higher, respectively, than in the control. MSC and ACV injections protected 70% and 60% of DBA mice, respectively, compared with the control (group 5, 10% survival). High activity of virus neutralizing anti-HSV1 antibodies and activation of T cell proliferation were observed in survived mice from group 3. Serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in these mice were lower and that of INF-γ much higher than in agonizing animals of this group (Р
Formulasi Dan Karakterisasi Nanopartikel Ekstrak Etanol Daun Salam (Syzygium polyanthum) Pada Berbagai Variasi Komposisi Kitosan Dengan Metode Gelasi Ionik
Authors: Fitri Dwiki , Kiromah Naelaz Zukhruf Wakhidatul , Widiastuti Tri Cahyani
Published: April 2020

Daun salam mengandung flavonoid sebagai antihipertensi, flavonoid yang diberikan secara peroral memiliki bioavailabilitas yang kurang baik karena kelarutan yang rendah dan tidak stabil terhadap faktor lingkungan. Salah satu upaya yang dapat dilakukan untuk mengatasi masalah tersebut adalah dengan memformulasikan dalam sediaan nanopartikel menggunakan polimer kitosan dan natrium tri-polifosfat (NaTPP). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkarakterisasi nanopartikel dari ekstrak etanol daun salam dengan variasi rasio konsentrasi kitosan. Ekstrak etanol daun salam diperoleh dengan cara ekstraksi menggunakan metode maserasi dengan pelarut etanol 96%. Hasil ekstrak dibuat koloid nanopartikel menggunakan teknik gelasi ionic menggunakan variasi ekstrak etanol daun salam: kitosan: NaTPP (1:1:1); (1:5:1); dan (1:10:1). Koloid nanopartikel yang terbentuk dikarakterisasi ukuran partikel, dan nilai zeta potensial. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa ekstrak etanol daun salam positif mengandung flavonoid. Hasil karakterisasi nanopartikel ekstrak etanol daun salam menunjukkan bahwa formula F1, F2, dan F3 mempunyai ukuran partikel 284,2 ± 6,8; 410,6 ± 6,8; dan 630,1 ± 3,4 nm dan nilai zeta potensial F1, F2 dan F3 adalah 50,1 ± 4,3; 45,8 ± 0,7; dan 59,2 ± 1,2 mV. Semua formula menunjukan rentan karakterisasi sediaan nanopartikel (<1000nm) Peningkatan rasio kitosan dalam formulasi nanopartikel ekstrak etanol daun salam meningkatkan ukuran partikel dan nilai zeta potensial. F1 merupakan formula dengan ukuran partikel paling kecil dengan karakterisasi ukuran partikel <300nm dan stabilitas sistem dispersi yang optimal yaitu >30 mV. 
Open Hip Abductor Tendon Repair into a Bone Trough
Authors: Incavo Stephen J. , Harper Katharine D.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Hip abductor tendon tears are a well-recognized entity that results in progressive lateral hip pain, weakness, and limping. These can occur in patients with native hips or in patients following total hip arthroplasty. However, treatment of these 2 distinct groups does not differ. We describe a new repair technique utilizing a longitudinal bone trough in the greater trochanter. We compare our results (focusing on gluteus medius tendon avulsions) and traditional repair with suture anchors or transosseous bone tunnels. Additionally, we propose a classification system that attempts to describe the different types of tears to guide treatment, as the current classification system is not helpful in defining pathology or guiding treatment. Our proposed classification will help to better describe tear types anatomically and thereby guide appropriate surgical interventions based on these types.

Description:

Abductor tears were classified, according to our system, as Type I when there was no gluteus medius avulsion from bone (with subtype A indicating a partial tear of the gluteus minimus or gluteus medius; B, a complete tear of the gluteus minimus; and C, a longitudinal tear of the gluteus medius) or Type II when there was a gluteus medius avulsion (with subtype A indicating an avulsion of <50% of the insertion into the greater trochanter, and B, an avulsion of ≥50% of the insertion). Repair into a bone trough involves (1) freeing up and mobilizing the tendon from overlying fascia, (2) placing 2 evenly spaced Krackow stitches in the tendon, (3) creating a bone trough using a burr in the midline of the greater trochanter, (4) creating bone tunnels out the lateral wall of the trough to pass sutures, and (5) passing sutures through the bone tunnels to allow inset of the tendon into the trough, and later tying the sutures over the lateral osseous bridge.

Alternatives:

Alternative treatment options include nonoperative and operative management. Nonoperative treatment choices include physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and activity modification with assistive walking devices. Surgical alternatives include endoscopic or open direct soft-tissue repair, suture anchor repair, bone tunnel repair, graft jacket reconstruction, or gluteus maximus muscle transfer.

Rationale:

Because of discouraging outcomes experienced by us and others, a new technique (a greater trochanter longitudinal bone trough) was developed to improve surgical results. This technique, utilizing an abductor tendon repair into a bone trough, improved our surgical outcomes for abductor tendon avulsions. We found that outcomes after surgical treatment of abductor tendon tears without avulsion are superior to those after repairs of abductor tendon avulsions, which is an important distinction compared with previous literature on abductor tendon repairs.
Despite Early Medicaid Expansion, Decreased Durable Virologic Suppression Among Publicly Insured People with HIV in Washington, DC
Authors: Goldstein Deborah , Hardy David , Monroe Anne , Hou Qingjiang , Hart Rachel , Terzian Arpi
Published: April 2020

Background:
Despite widely available access to HIV care in Washington, DC, inequities in HIV outcomes persist. We hypothesized that laboratory monitoring and virologic outcomes would not differ significantly based on insurance type.
Methods:
We compared HIV monitoring with outcomes among people with HIV (PWH) with private (commercial payer) versus public (Medicare, Medicaid) insurance receiving care at community and hospital clinics. The DC Cohort follows over 8,000 PWH from 14 clinics. We included those ≥18 years old enrolled between 2011-2015 with stable insurance. Outcomes included frequency of CD4 count and HIV RNA monitoring ( > 2 lab measures/year, > 30 days apart) and durable viral suppression (VS; HIV RNA <50 copies/mL at last visit and receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥12 months). Multivariable logistic regression models examined impact of demographic and clinical factors.
Results:
Among 3,908 PWH, 67.9% were publicly-insured and 58.9% attended community clinics. Compared with privately insured participants, a higher proportion of publicly insured participants had the following characteristics: female sex, Black race, heterosexual, unemployed, and attending community clinics. Despite less lab monitoring, privately-insured PWH had greater durable VS than publicly-insured PWH (ART-naïve: private 70.0% vs public 53.1%, p=0.03; ART-experienced: private 80.2% vs public 69.4%, p<0.0001). Privately-insured PWH had greater durable VS than publicly-insured PWH at hospital clinics (AOR=1.59, 95% CI: 1.20, 2.12; p=0.001).
Conclusions: Paradoxical differences between HIV monitoring and durable VS exist among publicly and privately-insured PWH in Washington, DC. Programs serving PWH must improve efforts to address barriers creating inequity in HIV outcomes.
Better pulmonary function is associated with greater handgrip strength in a healthy Chinese Han population
Authors: Chen Liangmei , Liu Xiaomin , Wang Qian , Jia Linpei , Song Kangkang , Nie Sasa , Zhang Yinping , Cao Dan , Zhao Delong , Li Zuoxiang , Dong Zheyi , Zheng Ying , Duan Shuwei , Sun Xuefeng , Feng Zhe , Cai Guangyan , Zhang Weiguang , Chen Xiangmei
Published: April 2020

Background: Handgrip strength (HGS) has been widely studied in clinical and epidemiological settings, but the relationship between HGS and pulmonary function is still controversial. This study analysed pulmonary function and HGS stratified by sex and age in a healthy Chinese Han population, as well as the associations between HGS and pulmonary function parameters. Methods: HGS was measured by a Jamar dynamometer and pulmonary function was tested using a portable spirometer. Frequencies and variables are presented as percentages and means ± standard deviations, respectively. Chi-square tests were used for comparisons of categorical variables, and Student’s t-tests or Mann–Whitney U-tests were used for continuous variables. Pearson's correlation coefficients were used to analyse the normally distributed variables, and Spearman correlation coefficients were used to analyse the non-normally distributed variables. Multivariate linear regression models were employed to explore the relationships between HGS and parameters of pulmonary function. The statistical significance was set at p <0.01. Results: Cross-sectional data were available for 1519 subjects (59.0% females, 57.9±13.1 years old). Males had higher average HGS than females (40.2 vs. 25.0 kg, p <0.01 ), as well as better pulmonary function. Both HGS and pulmonary function parameters were significantly inversely correlated with age (r ≤ -0.30, p < 0.01). The maximum value of vital capacity (VC max), forced expiratory volume in 3 second (FEV3) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were strongly correlated with HGS among the pulmonary function indices (r=0.72, 0.70 and 0.69, respectively, p <0.001). In the multivariate linear regression analysis, HGS and height were positively correlated, while age and pulse pressure were negatively correlated with HGS. In males, the FVC, VC max and FEV3 increased by 0.02L, 0.023L and 0.03L in per 1 kg increase in HGS, respectively. The HGS coefficients for females were smaller than those for males. Conclusions: Both pulmonary function and HGS were inversely correlated with age, and better pulmonary function was associated with greater handgrip strength.
The impact of coexisting diabetes mellitus on clinical outcomes in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Xie Zhiyong , Li Zhilian , Dong Wei , Chen Yuanhan , Li Ruizhao , Wu Yanhua , Liang Huaban , Ye Zhiming , Liu Shuangxin , Shi Wei , Liang Xinling
Published: April 2020

Background Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is frequently coexisted with diabetes mellitus (DM). Few researches investigate clinical outcomes in IMN patients coexisting diabetes mellitus (DM), including remission rates, renal survival and complications. Concurrent DM also pose therapeutic challenges to IMN patients due to the influence of glucocorticoids and immunosuppressant on metabolic disorders. We performed this study to investigate the impact of DM on clinical outcomes in IMN and the influence of therapeutic regime on metabolic parameters in diabetic IMN patients. Methods Two hundred and six adult hospitalized patients diagnosed with biopsy-proven IMN were retrospectively studied, including 42 patients coexisted with DM. Clinical outcomes including remission rates, renal outcome and complications were compared between groups. Impact of cyclophosphamide and ciclosporin on metabolism and complications were analyzed in IMN patients coexisting DM. Results IMN patients coexisted with DM were presented with advanced age, lower level of eGFR and hemoglobin. Patients coexisted with DM experienced worse renal function deterioration and higher incidence of infection. COX regression analysis showed that DM was an independent risk factor for renal function deterioration in IMN patients. There was no significant difference in remission rates and incidence of venous thromboembolism between two groups. Further exploration on the impact of therapeutic regimens on complications and metabolism showed that cyclophosphamide and ciclosporin had no significant difference in incidence of complications including infection and venous thromboembolism, and posed comparable influences on blood glucose, uric acid and blood lipids in IMN patients coexisted with DM. Conclusion Coexisting DM was an independent risk factor for renal function deterioration in IMN patients but did not influence the remission of proteinuria. Glucocorticoids in combination with cyclophosphamide or ciclosporine had similar impact on complications and metabolic index including blood glucose, uric acid and blood lipids in IMN patients coexisted with DM.
Exploring the Roles of Fecundity-related mRNAs and Long Non-coding RNAs in the Adrenal Glands of Small-tailed Han Sheep
Authors: Xia Qing , Li Qiuling , Gan Shangquan , Guo Xiaofei , Zhang Xiaosheng , Zhang Jinlong , Chu Mingxing
Published: April 2020

Background Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can play important roles in uterine and ovarian functions. However, little researches have been done on the role of lncRNAs in the adrenal gland of sheep. Herein, RNA sequencing was used to compare and analyze gene expressions in adrenal tissues between FecB ++ (WW) and FecB BB (MM) sheep in the follicular and luteal phases and key lncRNAs and genes associated with reproduction were identified. Results In MM sheep, 38 lncRNAs and 545 mRNAs were differentially expressed in the adrenal gland between the luteal and follicular phases; In WW sheep, 30 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 210 mRNAs were identified. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses indicated that differentially expressed lncRNAs and their target genes are mainly involved in the circadian rhythm, the mitogen activated protein kinase, thyroid, ovarian steroidogenesis and transforming growth factor beta signaling pathways. Key lncRNAs can regulate reproduction by modulating genes involved in these signaling pathways and biological processes. Specifically, XLOC_254761 , XLOC_357966 , 105614839 and XLOC_212877 targeting CREB1 , PER3 , SMAD1 and TGFBR2 , respectively, appear to play key regulatory roles. Conclusion These results broaden our understanding of lncRNAs in adrenal gland of sheep and provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sheep reproduction.
Clinical and ultrasonographic features of medullary thyroid microcarcinomas compared with papillary thyroid microcarcinomas: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Zhou Wei , Zhan Weiwei
Published: April 2020

Background: To identify the sonographic features that help to differentiate medullary thyroid microcarcinomas (MTMCs) and papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (PTMCs).
Methods: A total of 46 MTMCs in 41 patients and 136 PTMCs in 104 patients that were proved by surgery and pathology, were included in the study. The age and nodule size were analyzed by independent sample t test, and the gender, multiplicity and cervical lymph node metastases were analyzed by χ 2 or Fisher’s exact tests. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed on the sonographic features of thyroid nodules, including location, shape, boundary, margin, peripheral halo ring, echogenicity, composition, calcifications and vascularization.
Results: Compared with PTMCs, there were more MTMCs patients with cervical lymph node metastases (P=0.040). There were no significant differences in age, gender, nodule size, multiplicity, location, boundary, margin, peripheral halo ring, echogenicity and microcalcification between MTMCs and PTMCs (P > 0.05 for all). However, significant differences were found in shape (P=0.000), composition (P=0.032), macrocalcification (P=0.004) and vascularity (P=0.000) between the two groups.
Conclusions: There was some overlapping of sonographic features of MTMCs and PTMCs. However, MTMCs tended to be >50% solid composition, ovoid to round nodules with macrocalcifications and hypervascularity. Cervical lymph node metastases were more common in MTMCs patients.
The diagnostic yield of intellectual disability: Combined whole genome low-coverage sequencing and medical exome sequencing
Authors: Wang Jun , Wang Yan , Wang Liwen , Chen Wangyang , New Min Sheng
Published: April 2020

Background: Intellectual disability (ID) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex genetic underpinning in its etiology. Chromosome microarray (CMA) is recommended as the first-tier diagnostic test for ID due to high detection rate of copy number variation (CNV). Methods: To identify an appropriate clinical detection scheme for ID in Han Chinese patients, whole genome low-coverage sequencing was performed as the first-tier diagnostic test, and medical exome sequencing (MES) as the second-tier diagnostic test for patients with negative results of CNVs. Results: A total of 19 pathogenic CNVs in 16/95(16.84%) ID patients and 10 pathogenic single-nucleotide variations (SNVs), including 6 novel mutations in 8/95(8.42%) ID patients were identified on whom no pathogenic CNVs were discovered. The detection rate of CNVs in ID with multiple congenital anomalies (MCA) subgroup was significantly higher than ID with autism spectrum disorders and other IDs subgroups. And the single-nucleotide variations showed a higher occurrence rate in the other IDs subgroup. Conclusions: There were differences in the diagnostic yields of different variation types among the three ID subgroups. Our findings provided a new perspective on appropriate clinical detection scheme in different ID subgroups based on statistically significant differences among the three ID subgroups. The application of whole genome low-coverage sequencing as the first-tier diagnostic test for ID with MCA subgroup and MES as the first-tier diagnostic test for other ID subgroup was considered as an efficient clinical detection scheme.
Effect of pericardial incision on left ventricular morphology and systolic function in patients during coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Zhao Lan-Ting , Liu Lu , Meng Ping-Ping , Wang Yong-Huai , Li Meng , Yang Jun , Gu Tian-Xiang , Ma Chun-Yan
Published: April 2020

Background: Accurate assessment of left ventricular (LV) systolic function is important after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). LV ejection fraction (LVEF) is conventionally used to evaluate LV systolic function; deformation parameters can be used to detect subtle LV systolic dysfunction. It is unclear whether an incised pericardium without sutures during CABG could affect LV morphology and function. We investigated the effect of pericardial incision on LV morphology and systolic function during CABG. Methods: Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography was performed in 27 patients during elective CABG 5 minutes before and after pericardial incision. LV longitudinal and mid-cavity transversal diameters, sphericity index, volumes, and LVEF were measured. LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global radial strain (GRS), and twist obtained by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography were measured simultaneously. Results: LV mid-cavity transversal diameter increased, while the LV sphericity index decreased ( P <0.001) immediately after pericardial incision. The GLS, GCS, and twist significantly decreased, while the GRS notably increased ( P <0.001). The LV volumes and LVEF remained unchanged. The SYNTAX score was an independent predictor of reduction of GLS by >15% immediately after pericardial incision ( P <0.001). Conclusions: Pericardial incision immediately transformed LV morphology from an ellipsoid to sphere, with decreased longitudinal and circumferential strain and twist, and increased radial strain, while LVEF remained unchanged. This should be considered when evaluating LV systolic function in patients after CABG, especially in those with a lower SYNTAX score.
Cervical and oral human papillomavirus infection in women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and matched HIV-negative controls in Brazil
Authors: Suehiro Tamy Taianne , Damke Gabrielle Marconi Zago Ferreira , Damke Edilson , Ramos Paloma Luana Rodrigues de Azevedo , Silva Marcela de Andrade Pereira , Pelloso Sandra Marisa , Huh Warner K , Franco Ricardo Argemiro Fonseca , Silva Vânia Ramos Sela da , Scarinci Isabel Cristina , Consolaro Marcia Edilaine Lopes
Published: April 2020

Background: Despite the demonstrated role of human Papillomavirus (HPV) in the etiology of cervical cancer and the strong evidence suggesting the importance of HPV in the development of oropharyngeal cancer, several aspects concerning the interrelationship between HPV infection in both body sites remain unknown, specifically in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive (HIV+) female patients. We aimed to assess the prevalence, distribution, and concordance of cervical and oral HPV in HIV+ women and matched HIV-negative (HIV-) controls in Brazil.
Material and methods: Cervical and endocervical samples for cytological screening and HPV detection and oral samples were collected from 115 HIV+ women using highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and 139 HIV-matched controls (HIV-) in Maringá City, Brazil. Risk factors were assessed using a standardized questionnaire, and the data regarding HIV infection were obtained from the patients’ medical records. HPV detection and typing were performed using the Kit Multiplex XGEN Multi HPV Chip HS12.
Results: HIV infection was well controlled in this cohort, but women who exhibited detectable HIV load were significantly associated with HPV-positive status in overall (P = 0.03) and in cervical mucosa (P = 0.01). HIV+ women had significantly more abnormal cytological findings (P = 0.04) than HIV- women. Of the 115 HIV+ women, 48.7% were positive for cervical and/or oral HPV DNA; of the 139 HIV- women, 41% were positive for cervical and/or oral HPV (P = 0.25). Both HIV+ and HIV- women had a statistically higher prevalence of cervical HPV infection than oral infection. The concurrent HPV infection in two anatomical sites was similar in HIV+ and HIV- women, however HPV type concordance was not observed. HPV type distribution was different between the anatomical sites in both groups, and HIV+ women presented less common types, mainly in oral mucosa.
Conclusion: Our data support the importance of HPV infection in HIV+ women, even when the HIV infection is well controlled. Prospective studies are required to better understand the natural history of HPV infection in both anatomical sites, specifically in HIV+ women.
In Silico Screening of Potential Spike Glycoprotein Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 with Drug Repurposing Strategy
Authors: Wei Tianzi , Wang Hao , Wu Xueqing , Lu Yi , Guan Shenghui , Dong Fengquan , Dong Chenle , Zhu Guli , Bao Yuzhou , Zhang Jian , Wang Guanyu , Li Haiying
Published: April 2020

COVID-19 has globally spread and has become a new pandemic, but there are still no effective drugs or vaccines to treat or prevent this disease. SARS-CoV-2 invades human cells through its spike proteins interacting with human ACE2 receptors, which may cause severe respiratory syndrome. One strategy to prevent the virus from entering cells is the interruption of the viral spike protein interacting with human ACE2. Facing such an urgent situation, drug repurposing is a promising strategy for rapid drug development. Here, we selected approximately 15000 molecular candidates, including FDA-approved drugs from DrugBank and natural compounds from TCMSP, to perform virtual screening for potential molecules that can target viral spike proteins, which may potentially interrupt the interaction between the human ACE2 receptor and viral spike protein. We found that digitoxin, a cardiac glycoside in DrugBank and bisindigotin, which is extracted from indigo naturalis and polygoni tinctorii foliu, in TCMSP had the highest docking scores. Note that indigo naturalis and the other herbs we found have been applied to prevent infectious diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. We also found that raltegravir, an HIV integrase inhibitor, has a relatively high binding affinity. All the docking results are presented in this article. Based on these docking results, further work will continue to identify potential molecules to prevent the spike protein from binding with the ACE2 receptor.Authors Tianzi Wei and Hao Wang contributed equally to this work.
Sagittal Spinal-pelvic Alignment in Patients with Crowe Type IV Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Ren Peng , Kong Xiangpeng , Chai Wei , Wang Yan
Published: April 2020

Background The compensatory mechanisms of the spine, pelvis, and lower limbs are essential to maintaining an upright posture. The effect of a high dislocated dysplastic hip on spinal-pelvic alignment has not been well described. The aim of this study was to investigate the sagittal spinal-pelvic alignment in patients with Crowe type IV developmental dysplasia of the hip(DDH). Methods A prospective study was conducted from July 2016 to December 2017, and 49 consecutive patients with unilateral or bilateral high dislocated dysplastic hips were enrolled. Forty-nine sex- and age-matched asymptomatic healthy adults were also recruited as a control group. The sacral slope (SS), lumbar lordosis (LL), spino-sacral angle (SSA), C7 tilt (C7T), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA[C7])were measured on lateral whole spine radiographs. The presence of low back pain and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were recorded. Results Patients with high dislocated dysplastic hips showed significantly greater SS(47.5±7.5° vs. 40.4±6.7°, p<0.001), LL(-63.7±9.2° vs. -53.3±11.5°, P<0.001), SSA(141.8°±7.2° vs. 130.6±7.9°, p<0.001), C7T(93.9±3.6° vs. 91.1±3.7°, P<0.001), and lower SVA(C7) (-16mm[-95-45] vs. 6.4mm[-52-47], p<0.001) compared to normal controls. Patients with bilateral high dislocated dysplastic hips also exhibited larger SS, LL, SSA, and C7T and a smaller SVA(C7) than those of patients with unilateral hip dysplasia. 63.2% of the patients with high dislocated dysplastic hips reported low back pain. Conclusion Patients with Crowe type IV DDH exhibited abnormal spinal-pelvic alignment characterized by anterior pelvic tilt, lumbar hyperlordosis, and a backward-leaning trunk. Bilateral dislocated dysplastic hips had a greater impact on spinal-pelvic alignment than unilateral dislocated dysplastic hips.
A follow-up study of hip arthroplasty in patients with chronic renal failure on dialysis
Authors: Lee Sang Min , Suh Kuen Tak , Shin Won Chul , Oh Young Kwang , Woo Seung Hun
Published: April 2020

Background Although hip arthroplasty has become increasingly common, its radiological and clinical outcomes in chronic renal failure patients remain unclear. This study analyzed the outcomes of hip arthroplasty in patients with chronic renal failure undergoing dialysis. Methods Of 2,364 hips undergoing total hip arthroplasty or bipolar hemiarthroplasty between January 2003 and December 2017, data pertaining of 37 hips of patients with chronic renal failure undergoing dialysis (16 men, 21 women) were retrospectively examined. We analyzed the radiological and clinical outcomes of hip arthroplasty, as well as the occurrence of local and general complications (particularly the time of their occurrence) during follow-up and their association with dialysis duration. Results The mean patient age was 60.6 ± 13.5 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 36.6 ± 27.2 months. The mean T-value indicating bone mineral density was -2.62 ± 1.15, with osteoporosis noted in 20 cases. Except for 1 case with infection-induced change in acetabular cup tilt, all cases of total hip arthroplasty with cementless acetabular cup implant exhibited excellent radiographic outcomes. The cementless proximally coated femoral stem was used in all 25 cases of total hip arthroplasty and 7 out of 12 cases of bipolar hemiarthroplasty. Changes in the alignment of femoral stems, subsidence, osteolysis, and loosening were not observed. On clinical assessment, 33 patients received an “excellent” or “good” Harris hip score. Within 1 year postoperatively, complications developed in 18 patients, and some patients exhibited more than 1 complication. More than 1 year after surgery, general complications developed in 12 patients; however, no patient experienced local complications.Conclusions Hip arthroplasty in chronic renal failure patients on dialysis showed excellent radiological and satisfactory clinical outcomes; however, it may be associated with various postoperative complications. Therefore, meticulous preoperative treatment planning and overall postoperative management are required to reduce the risk of complications.
Combination Therapy with Pemafibrate (K-877) and Pitavastatin Improves Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction in Dahl/Salt-sensitive Rats Fed a High-salt and High-fat Diet​
Authors: Yoshida Masatoki , Nakamura Kazufumi , Miyoshi Toru , Yoshida Masashi , Kondo Megumi , Akazawa Kaoru , Kimura Tomonari , Ohtsuka Hiroaki , Ohno Yuko , Miura Daiji , Ito Hiroshi
Published: April 2020

Background

Statins suppress the progression of atherosclerosis by reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Pemafibrate (K-877), a novel selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α modulator, is expected to reduce residual risk factors including high triglycerides (TGs) and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol during statin treatment. However, it is not known if statin therapy with add-on pemafibrate improves the progression of atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of combination therapy with pitavastatin and pemafibrate on lipid profiles and endothelial dysfunction in hypertension and hyperlipidemia model rats.

Methods

Seven-week-old male Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) rats were divided into the following five treatment groups (normal diet (ND) plus vehicle, high-salt and high-fat diet (HD) plus vehicle, HD plus pitavastatin (0.3 mg/kg), HD plus pemafibrate (K-877) (0.5 mg/kg), and HD plus combination of pitavastatin and pemafibrate) and treated for 12 weeks. At 19 weeks, endothelium-dependent relaxation of the thoracic aorta in response to acetylcholine was evaluated.

Results

After feeding for 12 weeks, systolic blood pressure and plasma levels of total cholesterol were significantly higher in the HD-vehicle group compared with the ND-vehicle group. Combination therapy with pitavastatin and pemafibrate significantly reduced systolic blood pressure, TG levels, including total, chylomicron (CM), very LDL (VLDL), HDL-TG, and cholesterol levels, including total, CM, VLDL, and LDL-cholesterol, compared with vehicle treatment. Acetylcholine caused concentration-dependent relaxation of thoracic aorta rings that were pre-contracted with phenylephrine in all rats. Relaxation rates in the HD-vehicle group were significantly lower compared with the ND-vehicle group. Relaxation rates in the HD-combination of pitavastatin and pemafibrate group significantly increased compared with the HD-vehicle group, although neither medication alone ameliorated relaxation rates significantly. Western blotting experiments showed increased phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein expression in aortas from rats in the HD-combination group compared with the HD-vehicle group. However, the expression levels did not respond significantly to either medication alone.

Conclusions

Combination therapy with pitavastatin and pemafibrate improved lipid profiles and endothelial dysfunction in hypertension and hyperlipidemia model rats. Pemafibrate as an add-on strategy to statins may be useful for preventing atherosclerosis progression.
Estimation of the Time-dependent Reproduction Number of Influenza A(H1N1)pdm2009 in South Korea
Authors: Lee Yunjeong , Lee Dong Han , Kwon Hee-Dae , Kim Changsoo , Lee Jeehyun
Published: April 2020

Background: The reproduction number is one of the most crucial parameters in determining disease dynamics, providing a summary measure of the transmission potential. However, estimating this value is particularly challenging owing to the characteristics of epidemic data, including non-reproducibility and incompleteness.Methods: In this study, we propose mathematical models with different population structures; each of these models can produce data on the number of cases of the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 epidemic in South Korea. These structured models incorporating the heterogeneity of age and region are used to estimate the time-dependent effective reproduction numbers. Subsequently, the age- and region-specific reproduction numbers are also computed to analyze the differences illustrated in the incidence data.Results: The basic SIR fails to provide a reasonable estimation of the reproduction numbers. The estimated values demonstrate a large variation and remains outside of the feasible range for the influenza, regardless of the time period for data. Real-time estimation using age- and region-structured models demonstrated that the effective reproduction number rose sharply during mid-October when the ㅜumber of patients increased dramatically. The reproduction number fell below unity at the end of October and stayed lower than unity indicating that the epidemic starts decreasing, which is consistent with the incidence data.Conclusions: Numerical results reveal that the introduction of heterogeneity into the population to represent the general characteristics of dynamics is essential for the robust estimation of parameters.
The effect of control measures on COVID-19 transmission in Italy: Comparison with Guangdong province in China
Authors: Liu Peiyu , He Sha , Rong Libin , Tang Sanyi
Published: April 2020

Background COVID-19 is spreading in many countries around the world. Italy is the hardest hit in Europe and its number of new infections is still increasing. This study aims to evaluate the reason for the rapidly growing epidemic in Italy.Methods We compared Italy’s data of outbreak and control measures with the province of Guangdong in China. Then, a modiﬁed SEIR model was applied to estimate the basic reproduction number. Finally, we utilized a time-dependent dynamic model to study the future disease dynamics in Italy.Results The comparison of speciﬁc measures implemented in the two places and the time when the measures were initiated shows that the prevention and control actions in Italy were not sufﬁciently timely and effective. Using a modiﬁed SEIR model, we estimated parameter values based on available cumulative data and calculate the basic reproduction number to be 4.32 before the national lockdown in Italy. Numerical simulations revealed that under a scenario in which very strict interventions are taken when the minimum contact rate is 1 with the exponential decreasing rate is 0.5 and the fast diagnosis rate is 0.5 with the exponential increasing rate is 0.5 (i.e. the test result will be available in two days). In this scenario, Italy will reach the peak (i.e. 23900) after 43 days.Conclusion This study suggests that Italy is currently in a very serious epidemic status since control measures such as blockade of schools, isolation, medical supports and media coverage are not sufﬁciently timely and effective.
Validation Of Nigerian Version Of The Modified Fall Efficacy Scale Among Community-dwelling Older Adults: A Validation Study
Authors: Okoye Emmanuel Chiebuka , Akosile Christopher Olusanjo , Maruf Fatai Adesina , Onwuakagba Ifeoma Uchenna , Urama Sunday Tobias
Published: April 2020

Background: Fear of falling (FOF) is a very pervasive problem among older adults. Consequently, many scales have been developed for its assessment. The Modified Fall Efficacy Scale (MFES) is one of the most popular FOF scales. The MFES was originally developed for use in developed countries, and thus may not be entirely suitable for use in developing countries due to cultural and environmental differences between the two country categories. This study was therefore designed to cross-culturally adapt and validate the MFES to Igbo culture and environment among community-dwelling older adults in Nnewi community using established guidelines.Methods : The original English version of the MFES (E-MFES) was translated, synthesized, back-translated, subjected to expert panel review, and pretested before producing the final Igbo version of the MFES (I-MFES). The E-MFES, the I-MFES and the Short Falls Efficacy International were randomly administered to consecutively recruited 109 consenting older adult residents of Nnewi (43.1% males; mean age=74.45±8.78 years). Obtained data was analysed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman rank-order test, Cronbach’s alpha and principal component analysis at 0.05 level of significance.Results : All the 14 items on the E-MFES were retained on the I-MFES. There was no significant difference between the corresponding scores on the E-MFES and the I-MFES (p<0.05). The correlations between the corresponding scores on the I-MFES and the M-FES were all excellent (rho=0.97-1.00) indicating evidence of concurrent validity of the I-MFES. The correlation between the total scores on the I-MFES and the Short Falls Efficacy International was excellent (rho=9.3) indicating evidence of convergent validity. The Cronbach’s alpha value of the I-MFES is 0.97 showing evidence of excellent internal consistency.Conclusion : The I-MFES is a valid and reliable tool, and thus can be used as an outcome measure on Igbo older adults.
The pattern of gene copy number variations (CNVs) in hepatocellular carcinoma; in silico analysis
Authors: Ansari Hossein , Shahrisa Arman , Tahmaseby Maryam , Mohammadi Zahra , Carloni Vinicio , Asl Javad Mohammadi
Published: April 2020

Cancer-associated death is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Study of the involved molecular networks of cancers can identify the potential target for early diagnosis, efficient therapies, and predictive prognosis of patients with cancer. Copy number variations are one type of DNA mutations which has been connected with human cancers. The CNVs can be used to find the regions of the genome involved in cancer phenotypes. This study is aimed to perform genome-wide chromosomal CNVs in HCC samples to find hotspot regions of disease using in silico analysis. The obtained data showed that gain of chromosome 1q and loss of 8p were frequently observed in target cancerous tissues. All the gains and losses were associated with tumor grade and metastasis. However, the amplification of YY1AP1 (Yin Yang-1 Associated Protein 1) and deletion of CHMP7 (Charged Multivesicular Body Protein 7) were observed in most of patients. These expression levels of YY1AP1 and CHMP7 were also upregulated and downregulated in cancerous samples respectively. Additionally, these two genes interact with critical oncogene and tumor suppressor genes like MDM2 (Mouse double minute 2 homolog) and VHL (von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor) showing the potential of these genes in HCC pathogenesis. Based on the observed data we suggest the 1q and 8p as candidate regions for HCC for researches especially YY1AP1 and CHMP7 loci.
Kidney ventrally rotation technique in retroperitoneal robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for posterior hilar tumor: technical feasibility and preliminary results
Authors: Yin Xiaotao , Jiang Sinan , Shao Zhiqiang , Lu Yongliang , Guo Jiangxiang , Xiao Yi , Zhu Xiaoying , Yu Hualiang , Ma Han , Yang Yu , Gao Jiangping
Published: April 2020

Purpose: The retroperitoneal robotic assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is suitable for tumors locating on the posterior side of the kidney. However, the posterior hilar tumor poses additional surgical challenge due to the special location and poor tumor exposure. A novel kidney ventrally rotation technique to overcome this difficulty during retroperitoneal RAPN was developed, and its efficacy was assessed in a consecutive case series.Methods: From April 2017 to April 2019, a total of 24 patients with posterior renal hilar tumor underwent retroperitoneal RAPN. The kidney ventrally rotation technique was applied in all these cases, which specialized in improving the exposure of posterior hilar tumor by rotating the kidney ventrally. Perioperative data was analyzed to evaluate the efficacy of this technique.Results: The mean tumor size was 4.3 ± 1.7 cm (range 2.5-8 cm), and the median R.E.N.A.L score was 9 (range 7-12). All the 24 patients underwent RAPN successfully without converting to open surgery or radical nephrectomy. The mean operation time was 80 ± 24 min, the mean estimated blood loss was 104 ± 65 ml, and the warm ischemia time was 17.4 ± 6.6 min. No sever complications occurred, and no positive surgical margin was found in all the malignant cases. After 14 months follow-up, no recurrence or metastasis occurred in all cases.Conclusion: Kidney ventrally rotation technique is safe and feasible for improving the exposure of posterior renal hilar tumor during retroperitoneal RAPN. It could be regarded as an efficient method for the management of posterior hilar tumor.KEYWORDS: robotic surgery; partial nephrectomy; posterior hilar tumor; retroperitoneal approach; kidney rotation
Prevalence and genotype distribution of HPV infection among 214,715 women from Southern China, 2012-2018: baseline surveys prior to mass HPV vaccination
Authors: Luo Lipei , He Ping , Liu Qiaotu , Jiang Yanghua , Zhang Yang-nan , Li Qingzhao , Li Qiu , Li Shengtao , Yang Fan , Ling Hua , Dai Xingui , Li Zhongyu , Chen Hongliang
Published: April 2020

Background : The epidemiology on the human papillomavirus (HPV) among females in Southern China is not well-established. Baseline data on the prevalence of HPV infection in China prior to mass prophylactic HPV vaccination would be useful. Thus, this study aimed to determine the type-specific HPV prevalence and distribution among females from Southern China prior to mass HPV vaccination.Methods : A retrospective cross-sectional study employing 214,715 women attending ChenZhou NO.1 People’s Hospital for cervical screening during 2012-2018 was conducted prior to widespread HPV vaccination. HPV genotype was detected using nucleic acid molecular diversion hybridization tests. The overall prevalence, age-specific prevalence, type distribution，and annual trend was analyzed.Results : The overall HPV prevalence was 18.71% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.55%-18.88%) among Southern China females. During 2012–2018, the prevalence of HPV infection showed a downward tendency, from 21.63% (95% CI, 21.07%-22.20%) in 2012 to 18.75% (95% CI, 18.35%-19.16%) in 2018. Age-specific HPV distribution displayed a peak at young women aged less than 21 years (33.11%, 95% CI, 31.13%-35.15%), 20.07% ( 95% CI, 19.70%-20.44% ) among women aged 21-30 years, 17.29% (95% CI, 17.01%-17.57%) among women aged 31-40 years, 17.23% (95% CI, 16.95%-17.51%) among women aged 41-50 years, 21.65% (95% CI, 21.11%-22.20%) among women aged 51-60 years, and 25.95% (95% CI, 24.86%-27.07%) among women aged over 60 years. Of the 21 subtypes identified, the most three prevalent high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) genotypes were HPV52 (5.12%; 95% CI, 21.11%-22.20%), -16 (2.96%; 95% CI, 2.89%-3.03%), and -58 (2.51%; 95% CI, 2.44%-2.58%); the predominant low-risk HPV (LR-HPV) genotypes were HPV81 (1.86%; 95%CI, 1.80%-1.92%) and -6 (0.69%; 95% CI, 0.66%-0.73%) respectively. Incidence of HR-HPV only, LR-HPV only and mixed LR- and HR-HPV were 15.17%, 2.07% and 1.47% respectively. Besides, single HPV infection accounted for 77.30% of all positive cases in this study.Conclusions: This study highlights 1) a high prevalence of HPV infection among females with a decreasing tendency towards 2012-2018, especially for young women under the age of 21 prior to mass HPV vaccination; 2) HPV52, -16 and -58 were the predominant HPV genotypes, suggesting potential use of HPV vaccine covering these HPV genotypes in Southern China.