bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic graft for medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction: a systematic review
Authors: Migliorini Filippo , Eschweiler Jörg , Spiezia Filippo , Knobe Matthias , Hildebrand Frank , Maffulli Nicola
Published: August 2022

Background

This systematic review investigates the role of synthetic graft for primary medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction in patients with recurrent patellofemoral instability, focusing on clinical scores and the rate of complications.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. The main online databases were accessed in January 2022 without time constraints. All clinical studies investigating the use of synthetic grafts for MPFL reconstruction were accessed. Revision settings were not considered. Only articles reporting data on patients with recurrent patellofemoral instability were eligible. Studies regarding congenital or acute patellofemoral dislocation were excluded. Only studies performing a follow-up longer than 24 months were considered.

Results

Data on 199 patients [mean age 22.3 (range 19.0–28.0) years] were collected. The mean follow-up was 60.5 (39.0–142.8) months. All the scores of interest improved at last follow-up: Kujala (+ 24.8; P = 0.0002), Lysholm (+ 42.0; P = 0.02), Tegner (+ 1.2; P = 0.03), IKDC (+ 20.9; P = 0.02). Post-operatively, a positive apprehension test was detected in 6.1% (7/115) of patients, and a sensation of instability was reported by 1.5% (3/199) of patients. The rate of re-dislocations was 2.5% (5 of 199 patients), and revision procedures were performed in less than 1% (1 of 199) of patients.

Conclusion

Synthetic graft may be reliable and feasible for primary MPFL reconstruction in patients with recurrent patellofemoral instability.
Production of extracellular amylase contributes to the colonization of Bacillus cereus 0–9 in wheat roots
Authors: Huang Qiubin , Liu Huiping , Zhang Juanmei , Wang Shaowei , Liu Fengying , Li Chengdie , Wang Gang
Published: August 2022

Background

Bacteria usually secrete a variety of extracellular enzymes to degrade extracellular macromolecules to meet their nutritional needs and enhance their environmental adaptability. Bacillus cereus 0–9, a biocontrol bacterial strain isolated from wheat roots, has three genes annotated as encoding amylases in the genome, but their functions are unknown, and whether they are involved in the colonization process of the bacterium remains to be further studied.

Methods

Mutant gene strains and fluorescently tagged strains were constructed by homologous recombination, and amylase protein was expressed in the prokaryotic Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) expression system. The iodine staining method was used to measure the activity of amylase proteins. We further observed the colonization abilities of the test strains in wheat roots through frozen section technology.

Results

The results showed that there were three amylase-encoding genes, amyC, amyP and amyS, in the B. cereus 0–9 genome. Among the three amylase encoding genes, only amyS produced extracellular amylase whose secretion was related to signal peptide at position 1–27. The AmyS protein encoded by the amyS gene is an α-amylase. The growth of Rhizoctonia cerealis was inhibited 84.7% by B. cereus 0–9, but the biocontrol ability of the ΔamyS strain decreased to 43.8% and that of ΔamyS/amyS was restored when the amyS gene was complemented. Furthermore, the biocontrol ability of the ΔamySec strain was decreased to 46.8%, almost the same as that of the ΔamyS mutant. Due to the deletion of the amyS gene, the colonization capacities of ΔamyS (RFP) and ΔamySec (RFP) in wheat roots decreased, while that of ΔamyS/amyS (RFP) was restored after the amyS gene was complemented, indicating that the amyS gene influences the colonization of B. cereus 0–9 in wheat roots. In addition, the colonization and biocontrol abilities of the mutant were restored after the addition of sugars, such as glucose and maltose.

Conclusions

B. cereus 0–9 encodes three genes annotated as amylases, amyC, amyP and amyS. Only the deletion of the amyS gene with a signal peptide did not produce extracellular amylase. The AmyS protein encoded by the amyS gene is an α-amylase. Our results indicated that the amyS gene is closely related to the colonization abilities of B. cereus 0–9 in wheat roots and the biocontrol abilities of B. cereus 0–9 to fight against R. cerealis. The extracellular amylase produced by B. cereus 0–9 can hydrolyze starch and use glucose, maltose and other nutrients to meet the needs of bacterial growth. Therefore, it is very possible that the secretion and hydrolytic activities of extracellular amylase can promote the colonization of B. cereus 0–9 in wheat roots and play important roles in the prevention and control of plant diseases. Our results contribute to exploring the mechanisms of microbial colonization in plant roots.
Longitudinal changes of mental health problems in children and adolescents treated in a primary care-based health-coaching programme – results of the PrimA-QuO cohort study
Authors: Decke Siona , Hamacher Karina , Lang Martin , Laub Otto , Schwettmann Lars , Strobl Ralf , Grill Eva
Published: August 2022

Background

In Germany, 19.1% of boys and 14.5% of girls are affected by mental health problems (MHP). Paediatricians are usually the first in line to be contacted but they often do not feel adequately trained to diagnose and treat MHP in primary care. A major statutory health insurance fund introduced a health coaching (HC) programme to strengthen primary care consultation for MHP. The HC includes a training concept for paediatricians, standardised guidelines for actions and additional payments. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of the HC programme on the change of MHP in children and adolescents.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted in Bavaria, Germany, in 2018 and 2019. Data were collected at 2 points 1 year apart using an online questionnaire. Parents of patients with developmental disorder of speech and language, head/abdominal pain, conduct disorder or non-organic enuresis were approached by their health insurance. Families treated according to the HC programme form the intervention group while all others serve as controls. MHP was assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) as a child self-assessment (SDQ-S)/or external assessment by parents (SDQ-P). Determinants of SDQ total score were analysed using linear mixed effects models.

Results

Cross-sectional (n = 1090) and longitudinal analyses (n = 599) were performed. At baseline, a total of 23.5% had an SDQ total score “at risk” (SDQ-S > 15/SDQ-P > 13). There were no significant differences between intervention and controls. After full adjustment for all potential confounders, higher SDQ scores indicating more problems were significantly associated with male sex (2.000, p < 0.001) whereas a high parental education level was significantly associated with decreased SDQ scores (-2.127, p =0.034). There was a significant improvement in the control group over time (-0.814, p = 0.001) while the SDQ scores in the intervention group remained stable (-0.012, p = 0.020).

Conclusion

This evaluation of the HC programme could not prove a clinically relevant intervention’s effect on the MHP developmental course. Nevertheless, (HC) paediatricians have crucial potential to improve the care of MHP patients. Targeting families with less access to support measures might help reduce the burden of MHP and be a step towards continuous improvement of care.
Are self-management abilities beneficial for frail older people’s cognitive functioning?
Authors: Cramm Jane M. , Nieboer Anna P.
Published: August 2022

Background

Self-management abilities seem to be important for the cognitive functioning of older people, especially those who are frail. We investigated relationships between broad self-management abilities (initiative taking, investment behavior, resource variety, resource multifunctionality, self-efficacy, and positive frame of mind) and cognitive functioning among frail older people while controlling for background characteristics (sex, age, marital status, and educational level).

Method

Survey data were collected from mid-2014 to mid-2015 from community-dwelling frail older people residing in North Brabant, the Netherlands. We measured cognitive functioning with the 12-item Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE-12) and self-management abilities with the short version of the Self-Management Ability Scale (SMAS-S).

Results

In total, 588 of 834 potential participants were willing to participate (70.5% response rate). The mean age was 82.33 ± 5.19 and the majority (68.5%) of respondents were female. About one-third (38.4%) of respondents had low educational levels and 61.7% lived alone. Mean MMSE-12 and SMAS-S scores were 9.68 ± 2.10 and 3.70 ± 0.88, respectively. Bivariate analyses showed that all six self-management abilities were related positively to cognitive functioning. Multivariate analyses with adjustment for background characteristics (sex, age, marital status, and educational level) showed that cognitive functioning was associated positively with initiative taking (β = 0.23, p = 0.030) and investment behavior (β = 0.24, p = 0.030) among community-dwelling frail older people.

Conclusions

This study clearly showed that a repertoire of broad self-management abilities is related to cognitive functioning among community-dwelling frail older people. Initiative taking and investment behavior seem to be especially important. These findings are of interest in a time of populational aging and an increasing number of older people dealing with cognitive problems. Preventive investments in (older) people’s self-management abilities are expected to be beneficial for their cognitive functioning in the long term.
Circulating miR-130a-3p is elevated in patients with cerebral atherosclerosis and predicts 2-year risk of cerebrovascular events
Authors: Xu Jialei , Gao Fengchao
Published: August 2022

Background

Cerebral atherosclerosis (AS) leads to high risk of cerebrovascular events. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic performance of serum microRNA-130a-3p (miR-130a-3p) in cerebral AS patients, and construct a logistic risk model for 2-year cerebrovascular events on the basis of the prognostic potential of miR-130a-3p.

Methods

Serum samples were collected from 74 cerebral AS patients and 62 control individuals, and miR-130a-3p expression was investigated using reverse transcription quantitative PCR. Risk factors related with cerebral AS were assessed using a logistic regression analysis, and the receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic value of miR-130a-3p. The relationship between miR-130a-3p and cerebrovascular events was analyzed using a Kaplan–Meier method, and a logistic risk model was constructed for 2-year cerebrovascular events.

Results

Cerebral AS patients had elevated serum miR-130a-3p compared with controls (P < 0.001). Serum miR-130a-3p had diagnostic value (AUC = 0.899), and could significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy of total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in cerebral AS patients (AUC = 0.992). High serum miR-130a-3p was independently related with high probability of cerebrovascular events (HR = 1.993, 95% CI = 1.205–2.897,P = 0.006), and a logistic risk model was constructed based on serum miR-130a-3p, hs-CRP, TC and LDL-C.

Conclusion

All the findings indicated that high serum miR-130a-3p had diagnostic potential to screen cerebral AS, and predicted the probability of cerebrovascular events after AS. The logistic risk model based on miR-130a-3p may provide an efficient method to predict 2-year cerebrovascular events in AS patients.
Workforce situation of the Chinese mental health care system: results from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yue Jing-Li , Li Na , Que Jian-Yu , Hu Si-Fan , Xiong Na-Na , Deng Jia-Hui , Ma Ning , Sun Si-Wei , Chi Rui , Shi Jie , Sun Hong-Qiang
Published: August 2022

Background

High-quality mental health services can improve outcomes for people with mental health problems and abate the burden of mental disorders. We sought to identify the challenges the country’s mental health system currently faces and the human resource situation related to psychological services and to provide recommendations on how the mental health workforce situation could be addressed in China.

Methods

This study used a cross-sectional survey design. A web-based questionnaire approach and a convenience sampling method were adopted. It was carried out from September 2020 to January 2021 in China, and we finally included 3824 participants in the analysis. Descriptive statistical analysis of the characteristics of the study sample was performed. The risk factors for competence in psychological counseling/psychotherapy were assessed using multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

Workforce related to psychotherapy is scarce in China, especially in Western China and community mental health sectors. Psychiatrists (39.1%) and nurses (38.9%) were the main service providers of psychotherapy in psychiatric hospitals, and clinical psychologists (6.9%) and counsellors (5.0%) were seriously scarce in mental health care sectors. A total of 74.2% of respondents had no systematic psychological training, and 68.4 and 69.2% of them had no self-experience and professional supervision, respectively. Compared with clinical psychologists and counselors, psychiatrists and nurses had less training. Systematic psychological training (β = − 0.88), self-experience (β = − 0.59) and professional supervision (β = − 1.26) significantly influenced psychotherapy capacity (P<0.001).

Conclusions

Sustained effort will be required to provide a high-quality, equitably distributed psychotherapy workforce in China, despite challenges for community mental health sectors and western China being likely to continue for some time. Because mental illness is implicated in so many burgeoning social ills, addressing this shortfall could have wide-ranging benefits.
Clinical significance of potential drug–drug interactions in older adults with psychiatric disorders: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yu , Yang Man , Ding Yaping , Wang Huanqiang , Zhang Hailin , Wang Dandan , Zhuang Tianchi , Ji Minghui , Cui Yan , Wang Hong
Published: August 2022

Background

Polypharmacy increases the risk of potential drug–drug interactions (pDDIs). This retrospective analysis was conducted to detect pDDIs and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) among older adults with psychiatric disorder, and identify pDDIs with clinical significance.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was carried out based on the medical records of older adults with psychiatric disorders. Data on demographic characteristics, substance abuse, medical history, and medications were extracted. The Lexi-Interact online database was used to detect pDDIs. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was set as the change in the Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale (TESS) score between admission and discharge. The median and interquartile ranges were used for continuous variables, and frequencies were calculated for dichotomous variables. Poisson regression was implemented to determine the factors influencing the number of ADR types. The influencing factors of each ADR and the clinical significance of the severity of the ADR were analysed using binary logistic regression. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 308 older adults were enrolled, 171 (55.52%) of whom had at least 1 pDDI. Thirty-six types of pDDIs that should be avoided were found, and the most frequent pDDI was the coadministration of lorazepam and olanzapine (55.5%). A total of 26 ADRs induced by pDDIs were identified, and the most common ADR was constipation (26.05%). There was a 9.4 and 10.3% increase in the number of ADR types for each extra medical diagnosis and for each extra drug, respectively. There was a 120% increase in the number of ADR types for older adults hospitalized for 18–28 days compared with those hospitalized for 3–17 days. There was an 11.1% decrease in the number of ADR types for each extra readmission. The length of hospitalization was a risk factor for abnormal liver function (P < 0.05). The use of a large number of drugs was a risk factor for gastric distress (P < 0.05) and dizziness and fainting (P < 0.05). None of the four pDDIs, including coadministrations of olanzapine and lorazepam, quetiapine and potassium chloride, quetiapine and escitalopram, and olanzapine and clonazepam, showed clinical significance of ADR severity (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

pDDIs are prevalent in older adults, and the rate is increasing. However, many pDDIs may have no clinical significance in terms of ADR severity. Further research on assessing pDDIs, and possible measures to prevent serious ADRs induced by DDIs is needed to reduce the clinical significance of pDDIs.
Development of an integrated fatigue measurement system for construction workers: a feasibility study
Authors: Seong Sojeong , Park Soyeon , Ahn Yong Han , Kim Heejung
Published: August 2022

Background

Construction workers working in physically and mentally challenging environments experience high levels of occupational fatigue, which is the primary cause of industrial accidents and illnesses. Therefore, it is very important to measure fatigue in real time to manage the safety and health of construction workers. This study presents a novel approach for simultaneously measuring the subjective and objective fatigue of construction workers using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and smartwatches. Due to the complexity and diversity of construction site environments, it is necessary to examine whether data collection using smartwatches is suitable in actual construction sites. This study aims to examine the feasibility of the integrated fatigue measurement method.

Methods

This study comprised two phases: (1) development of an integrated fatigue measurement system for construction workers, and (2) a validation study to evaluate the method’s feasibility based on sensor data acquisition, EMA compliance, and feedback from construction workers in the field (N = 80). Three days of biometric data were collected through sensors embedded in the smartwatches for objective fatigue measurement, including heart rate, accelerometer, and gyroscope data. Two types of self-reported data regarding each worker’s fatigue were collected through a researcher-developed EMA application. The acceptability and usability of this system were examined based on the researchers’ observations and unstructured interviews.

Results

Based on the standardized self-report questionnaire scores, participants were classified into high (n = 35, 43.75%) and low (n = 45, 56.25%) fatigue groups for comparison. The quantitative outcomes did not show a statistically significant difference between the two fatigue groups. Both groups experienced positive emotions and were able to recognize their health condition at the time of self-reporting, but stated that responding to this measurement system could be burdensome.

Conclusions

This feasibility study provides a unique understanding of the applications of EMA and smartwatches for safety management in the construction workforce. The developed measurement system shows potential for monitoring fatigue based on the real-time collection of relevant data. It is expected that by expanding this integrated system through further research and onsite application, the health and safety of construction workers can be improved.
Predictive factors for successful non-operative treatment and achieving MCID improvement in health-related quality of life in adult spinal deformity
Authors: Cheung Jason Pui Yin , Wong Hei Lung , Cheung Prudence Wing Hang
Published: August 2022

Background

Adult spinal deformity is a spectrum of degenerative spinal diseases with increasing prevalence and healthcare burden worldwide. Identification of patients who are more likely to improve through conservative management may reduce cost and potentially prevent surgery and its associated costs and complications. This study aims to identify predictive factors for MCID in improvement of ODI and SRS-22r questionnaires in patients with adult spinal deformity treated with conservative treatment.

Methods

A prospective, observational cohort study of 46 patients was conducted at a spine specialist clinic. Inclusion criteria were 30–80 years of age, diagnosis of neglected adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, de-novo scoliosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, and sagittal plane deformities (thoracic hypokyphosis, lumbar hypolordosis), presenting with mechanical back pain with or without radicular leg pain. All patients received conservative management including medication and physiotherapy. Radiological and clinical parameters were measured at baseline and at 1-year follow-up. Primary outcomes were ODI and SRS-22r scores. Secondary outcomes were EQ-5D-5L scores and requiring spine surgery during conservative treatment. Predictors for MCID improvement in ODI and SRS-22r were identified using multivariate regressions and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses.

Results

At baseline, patients who reached MCID in ODI and/or SRS-22r showed less comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, osteoarthritis, cancer), smaller range of lateral spinal flexion, larger trunk shift, larger pelvic incidence, a higher EQ-5D-5L anxiety/depression dimension score, a lower SRS-22r total score, and presence of spondylolisthesis. Lateral flexion range < 25 degrees, trunk shift > 14 mm, pelvic incidence > 50 degrees, EQ-5D-5L anxiety/depression dimension score > 1, and SRS-22r total score < 3.5 were the cut-off values generated by ROC analysis.

Conclusions

Both radiological and clinical predictive factors for MCID improvement in health-related quality of life were identified. Future research should identify subgroups of patients who are responsive to specific conservative treatment modalities, so as to provide information for personalized medicine.

Level of evidence

II
Validation of a novel magnetic resonance imaging classification and recommended treatment for lateral elbow tendinopathy
Authors: Tuntiyatorn Panithan , Taweesakulvashra Rachaporn , Kanchanathepsak Thepparat , Rojpitipongsakorn Chanakarn , Tawonsawatruk Tulyapruek
Published: August 2022

Background

Lateral epicondylitis is one of the most common upper extremity problems presented to orthopedic surgeons. Despite a rapid and accurate arrival at a diagnosis by clinical examination, there exists no consensus classification for this condition, which hampers clinical approaches for treatment of the disease based on its severity. Thus, the aim of this study was to propose and valiadate a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) classification of lateral epicondylitis, staging by tendinosis, the degree of thickness tears of the common extensor tendon (CET) and bone bruise lesion.

Method

MRI assessment of the elbow of 75 patients (57 women and 18 men; mean age:51.4 years (range,34–73) from Jan 2014 to Jan 2021 who were diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis were included in the study. MR images were reviewed retrospectively by two independent upper extremities orthopedists and one musculoskeletal radiologist. Inter- and intra-observer reliabilities for the classification were calculated using kappa statistics for the analysis of interrater agreement. Correlation between the stage of the disease and the duration of symptom before MRI was calculated using Kruskal–wallis test.

Results

Various degrees of CET lesions were demonstrated in this population (Stage I-17, IIA-7, IIB-22 and III-29). Intra-observer agreements of MRI staging were substantial to satisfactory. Inter-observer agreements were moderate to substantial. There was no significant correlation between the disease stage and the patient age or the duration of symptom before MRI.

Conclusion

Our MRI classification has emerged as one of the most reliable methods to define stages of chronic lateral epicondylitis. At the end, we have suggeted a clearer direction for understanding the disease pathology as well as an appropriate management protocol for each stage of the disease in line with the recent body of literature.
Effect of AKT silence on malignant biological behavior of renal cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Li Zuan , Nong DeYong , Li Bincai , Wang Haojian , Li Chunlin , Chen Zhi , Li Ximing , Huang Guihai , Lin Junhao , Hao Nan , Li Wei
Published: August 2022

Background

As the most common malignant tumor of primary renal tumor, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the highly invasive disease with high mortality. AKT is a serine/threonine kinase that play a critical role in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway, and it is an attractive target for RCC treatment. The aim of present study was to investigate the effect of AKT silence on malignant behavior of renal cell carcinoma cells.

Methods

AKT expression was quantified by immunohistochemistry in tumor tissues and normal tissues. The human RCC cell lines Caki-2 cell were chosen for this study. The optimal silencing siRNA was subsequently selected by RT-qPCR and western blot. The effect of AKT silence on RCC cells was investigated by CCK8 assay, transwell assay, scratch test and flow cytometry. The AKT1 expression in human renal cell carcinoma tissue was detected by immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The AKT in Caki-2 cells was silenced successfully. The results shown AKT silence could inhibit cell proliferation, invasion, and, migration. In addition, AKT silence could promote Caki-2 cell apoptosis with prevention of RCC cells move from G1 phase to S phase. Immunohistochemical staining revealed significant difference of expression of AKT1 in RCC tissues and normal renal tissues. Taken together, AKT family members might involve in malignant growth of RCC, and might be a potential therapeutic target.

Conclusion

Our data show that AKT silence inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, and, migration of Caki-2 cell, and promoted Caki-2 cell apoptosis. Moreover, AKT silence prevented RCC cells move from G1 phase to S phase. Therefore, AKT may act as an effective therapeutic target for RCC.
Efficacy of prepartum vaccination against neonatal calf diarrhea in Nelore dams as a prevention measure
Authors: Pinheiro Filipe Aguera , Decaris Nathália , Parreño Viviana , Brandão Paulo Eduardo , Ayres Henderson , Gomes Viviani
Published: August 2022

Background

Neonatal calf diarrhea (NCD) is the leading cause of calf morbidity and mortality in beef cattle. Cow’s vaccination in last stage of pregnancy is one of the most important measures to mitigate the risk of NCD outbreaks. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of prepartum single dose vaccination against NCD, especially Bovine Rotavirus type A (BoRVA) and Bovine Coronavirus (BCoV), in Nelore dams and offspring. A total of 117 pregnant cows (n = 81) and heifers (n = 36) were distributed in two groups, vaccinated (VAC: cows = 40; heifers = 19) and non-vaccinated (NVAC: cows = 41; heifers = 17). Vaccination occurred between 60 to 50 days before the expected calving date with a single dose of a water-in-oil (W/O) vaccine, and NVAC group received a dose of saline solution 0.9%. Blood samples were collected before vaccination and 30 days after to evaluate the antibody (Ab) response. Specific IgG1 Abs against BoRVA and BCoV were measured by using an Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA). Calves’ births were monitored, and the transference of passive immunity was evaluated. Diarrhea was monitored in the first 30 days of age, and fecal samples were collected for identification of the etiological agent.

Results

Higher titers of IgG1 Ab against BoRVA and BCoV was observed in the VAC group than NVAC group in the cow (P < 0.0001) and total dams categories (P < 0.0001). The titer of specific IgG1 Abs in the calves’ serum reflected the dams response, observing higher IgG1 Ab titers for BoRVA (P < 0.0016) and BCoV (P < 0.0095) in the offspring born to VAC cows and higher IgG1 Ab titers for BoRVA(P < 0.0171) and BCoV (P < 0.0200) in the offspring born to VAC total dams. The general incidence of diarrhea observed was 18.6% (11/59) and 29.3% (17/58) in the calves born to the VAC and NVAC group, respectively.

Conclusions

Prepartum vaccination with a single dose of the vaccine tested increased the titers of IgG1 Ab against BCoV and BoRVA, and it could be used as a preventive strategy to decrease the NCD occurrence in Nelore calves.
Prevalence, characteristics, and risk of exacerbation in young patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Jo Yong Suk , Kim Kyung Joo , Rhee Chin Kook , Yoo Kwang Ha , Jung Ki-Suck , Park Yong-Bum
Published: August 2022

Background and objective

Early identification of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in young individuals could be beneficial to attempt preventive interventions. The objective of this study was to investigate clinical features and outcomes of young individuals with COPD from the general population cohort.

Methods

We included individuals from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) with spirometry and identifiable smoking status. Young subjects with COPD were defined as aged between 40 and 50 years and had baseline forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1]/forced vital capacity [FVC] ratio less than 0.7. Outcomes include the risk of exacerbation and medical expenses during 3 years of follow-up.

Results

Among 2236 individuals aged between 40 and 50 years, 95 (4.2%) had COPD, including 36 who were never-smokers and 59 who were ever-smokers. Approximately 98% of COPD subjects had mild to moderate airflow limitation. Inhaler treatment was given to only 6.3% patients in the COPD group. The risk of exacerbation for a 3-year period was analyzed using the never-smoker, non-COPD group as a comparator. Hazards ratio for exacerbation was 1.60 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.18–14.20) in the never-smoker COPD group and 1.94 (95% CI 0.31–12.07) in the ever-smoker COPD group of young subjects. COPD related medical costs were not significantly different between non-COPD and COPD groups of young individuals.

Conclusions

The risk of exacerbation showed an increasing trend in COPD patients regardless of smoking status compared to non-COPD. More attention to early identification and provision of preventive measures are needed to reduce disease progression and improve outcome.
Plasmodium relictum infection in Culex quinquefasciatus (Culicidae) decreases diel flight activity but increases peak dusk flight activity
Authors: Adams Dayvion R. , Golnar Andrew J. , Meyers Jacob I. , Slotman Michel A. , Hamer Gabriel L.
Published: August 2022

Background

Parasites are recognized for their ability to modify host physiology and behaviours in ways that increase parasite fitness. Protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium are a group of widespread vector-borne parasites of vertebrates, causing disease to a wide range of hosts, but most notably to human and avian hosts.

Methods

The hypothesis that infection with the avian malaria, Plasmodium relictum (GRW4 lineage) impacts flight activity in one of their natural vectors, Culex quinquefasciatus, was tested using both parasites and mosquitoes colonized from local populations in East-Central Texas, USA. Groups of Cx. quinquefasciatus were allowed to feed directly on canaries with active P. relictum infections and control canaries with no P. relictum exposure history. Additionally, how P. relictum sporozoite invasion of mosquito salivary glands impacts mosquito flight activity behaviour was tested using a Locomotor Activity Monitor for both control and infected females. Generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate the influence of infection status on the response variables of flight activity (continuous) and probability of flight occurring (binomial).

Results

Infection status was a significant predictor of flight activity and flight probability and interactions between infection status and experimental period of infection as well as infection status and dusk were statistically significant predictors of flight activity. Plasmodium relictum infected mosquitoes had a mean flight activity of 3.10 and control mosquitoes had an overall mean flight activity of 3.13.

Discussion

Based on these results, avian malaria parasites increase the flight activity of these mosquitoes at hours known for peak host-seeking behaviour but decrease overall diel activity.

Conclusion

Although the ramifications of this behavioural change for P. relictum transmission are unclear, these results provide additional empirical evidence suggesting that avian malaria can influence mosquito behaviour and modulate transmission potential.
Evaluation of anti-malarial potency of new pyrazole-hydrazine coupled to Schiff base derivatives
Authors: Ibezim Akachukwu , Ofokansi Martha N. , Ndukwe Xavier , Chiama Chidera S. , Obi Bonaventure C. , Isiogugu Ogechukwu N. , Ikechukwu Peter E. , Onwuka Akachukwu M. , Ihim Stella A. , Asegbeloyin Jonnie N. , Nwodo Ngozi J.
Published: August 2022

Background

The search for pharmacologically effective agents among molecules bearing multiple functionalities is commonly practiced. In continuation of the search for new anti-malarial agents, new pyrazole-hydrazine coupled Schiff-base derivatives previously synthesized were screened for anti-malarial property.

Methods

Here, in vivo prophylactic and curative activities of the compounds were assessed while their binding affinity for falcipain-2, a crucial enzyme in Plasmodium survival, was done using computational techniques.

Results

The two derivatives (BepINH and BepBeH) respectively led to a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in parasitaemia count (0.76 ± 1.11 and 0.79 ± 1.19) at day 3 post-treatment relative to the negative control (16.37 ± 1.25). For the prophylactic study, it was observed that the highest parasitaemia suppression level of 95.35% and 95.17% for BepINH and BepBeH at 15 mg/kg was slightly comparable to that obtained for ACT-Lonart (99.38%). In addition, their haematological profiles indicate that they are potentially beneficial in suppressing haemolytic damage to RBC, thereby protecting the body against infection-induced anaemia. Docking calculations on the derivatives toward the Plasmodium falciparum falcipain-2 revealed that they favourably interacted with a binding affinity higher than that of a known cocrystallized inhibitor.

Conclusion

This study confirms the relevance of multi-functional molecules in the search for new and effective anti-plasmodial agent and lay the foundation for further development of these compound series to potent anti-plasmodial agent that interacts with falcipain-2.
Effects of Chinese medicine for COVID-19 rehabilitation: a multicenter observational study
Authors: Zhong Linda Li-Dan , Wong Yi-Ping , Leung Chor-Yin , Peng Bo , Lin Zhi-Xiu , Wong Taam Vivian Chi-Woon , Luo Yi , Chen Hai-Yong , Chao Chao-Dong , Wong Chor-Fung , Tam Freddie Shung-Chi , Chan Kui , Lee Kwan-Yiu , Ho Lai-Fun , Wong Alan Yat-Lun , Choy Chi-Fung , Ng Bacon Fung-Leung , Wong Rowena How-Wan , Feng Yi-Bin , Liong Ching , Bian Zhao-Xiang ,   COVID-19 CM Research Working Group
Published: August 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Chinese Medicine (CM) on the health condition of the post-COVID-19 patients, particularly with the CM Syndrome diagnosis and Body Constitutions (BC), as well as related clinical characteristics.

Methods

150 participants who had COVID-19 and discharged from Hong Kong public hospitals were recruited. They were provided with three to six months of CM treatments, during which assessments were made per month and at follow-up on their CM syndromes, BC, lung functions, and other medical conditions. This study was divided into two parts: (1) Retrospective survey: medical history of participants during COVID-19 hospitalization was collected during the baseline visit; (2) Prospective observation and assessments: clinical symptoms, lung functions, and BC status were evaluated in participants receiving CM treatment based on syndrome differentiation and clinical symptoms.

Results

The median hospitalization period was 16 days. Symptoms were presented in 145 (96.6%) patients at the day they were diagnosed with COVID-19. Fever, fatigue, and dry cough were the most common symptoms, exhibiting in 59.3% (89 of 150), 55.3% (83 of 150), and 46% (70 of 150) participants, respectively. Among the 150 post-COVID patients, majority (71.3%) were of the two particular post-COVID CM Syndromes (Qi Deficiency of Lung and Spleen, and Qi and Yin Deficiency). Upon CM treatment, there was an observable increase in participants reaching a balanced BC (i.e. healthy body conditions). The increase was observed to be more prominent in those without the particular CM Syndromes compared to those with the CM Syndromes. Main clinical symptoms in participants with the CM Syndromes decreased upon CM treatment. Occurrence of fatigue also dropped after CM treatment though not all accompanied clinical symptoms were resolved fully. Further to the improvement in terms of CM assessments, lung functions of the participants were found to show improvement after treatment. Both the performance in 6MWT and scores in the LFQ improved upon CM treatments (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study provided evidence for individualized CM treatment on COVID-19 rehabilitation concerning the clinical symptoms improvements, lung functions improvement, and achieving a balanced BC. It is believed that CM may be a key to further promote rehabilitation and resolution of residual symptoms. Long-term large scale follow-up studies on sub-categorising post-COVID patients according to different CM syndromes would be required to further elucidate treatment of persistent symptoms that may be associated with long-COVID.
Revealing the evolution of the tumor immune microenvironment in follicular lymphoma patients progressing within 24 months using single-cell imaging mass cytometry
Authors: Liu Long , Yu Xingxing , Li Zhifeng , He Xiaohua , Zha Jie , Lin Zhijuan , Hong Yan , Zheng Huijian , Lai Qian , Ding Kaiyang , Jia Xian , Fu Guo , Yu Haifeng , Yang Haiyan , Li Zhiming , Young Ken H. , Xu Bing
Published: August 2022

Background

Patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) who experience disease progression within 24 months (POD24) have inferior outcomes. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays a crucial role in pathogenesis and progression of follicular lymphoma (FL). However, TIME evolution during progression of disease within 24 months (POD24) is elusive.

Methods

Spatially resolved and single-cell image mass cytometry with a panel of 36 metal-tagged antibodies was used to quantitatively analyze the TIME structure in 13 paired FLs at diagnosis and POD24.

Results

Follicles and peri-follicular regions were well dissected in structure. Peri-follicular regions represented a barrier for immune infiltration into the follicles. More FL-cells in the peri-follicular regions suffered CD8+T cells attacks under simultaneous protection of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and/or macrophages compared with that in the follicles irrespective of POD24. During POD24, increased CD163− macrophages with PD-1 ligand upregulation and decreased CD8+T cells with upregulated LAG-3 expression around FL-cells were observed in the follicles. Spatial analyses demonstrated that FL-cells interacted more intimately with macrophages than with Tregs and less with cytotoxic T cells in both peri-follicular regions and follicles during POD24. In comparison, macrophages also cooperated more frequently with Tregs to simultaneously hijack FL-cells, creating an enhanced immunosuppressive environment in both peri-follicular and follicular regions during POD24.

Conclusions

Peri-follicular regions function as a barrier by recruiting both CD8+T cells and immunosuppressive cells, protecting follicular FL-cells from immune attack at diagnosis or POD24. FL-cells reside in a more immune-compromised microenvironment and evade immune cell attacks during POD24. Novel immunotherapeutic approaches harnessing LAG-3, macrophages, and Tregs will be empowered to overcome poor outcomes in patients with FL POD24.
Using real-time visualization system for data-driven decision support to achieve lung protective strategy: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Tseng How-Yang , Chen Chieh-Lung , Lin Yu-Chao , Chuang Ming-Che , Hsu Wu-Huei , Hsiao Wan-Yun , Chen Tung-Mei , Wang Min-Tzu , Huang Wei-Chun , Chen Chih-Yu , Wu Biing-Ru , Tu Chih-Yen , Liang Shinn-Jye , Chen Wei-Cheng
Published: August 2022

Background

Although lung protective strategy and adjunctive intervention are associated with improved survival in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the implementation of effective therapies remains low. This study aimed to evaluate whether the use of business intelligence (BI) for real-time data visualization is associated with an improvement in lung protective strategy and adjunctive therapy.

Methods

A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted on patients with ARDS admitted between September 2020 and June 2021 at two intensive care units (ICUs) of a tertiary referral hospital in Taiwan. BI was imported for data visualization and integration to assist in clinical decision in one of the ICUs. The primary outcomes were the implementation of low tidal volume ventilation (defined as tidal volume/predicted body weight ≤ 8 mL/kg) within 24 h from ARDS onset. The secondary outcomes included ICU and hospital mortality rates.

Results

Among the 1201 patients admitted to the ICUs during the study period, 148 (12.3%) fulfilled the ARDS criteria, with 86 patients in the BI-assisted group and 62 patients in the standard-of-care (SOC) group. Disease severity was similar between the two groups. The application of low tidal volume ventilation strategy was significantly improved in the BI-assisted group compared with that in the SOC group (79.1% vs. 61.3%, p = 0.018). Despite their ARDS and disease severity, the BI-assisted group tended to achieve low tidal volume ventilation. The ICU and hospital mortality were lower in the BI-assisted group.

Conclusions

The use of real-time visualization system for data-driven decision support was associated with significantly improved compliance to low tidal volume ventilation strategy, which enhanced the outcomes of patients with ARDS in the ICU.
Downregulation of amphiregulin improves cardiac hypertrophy via attenuating oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Ji Mingyue , Liu Yun , Zuo Zhi , Xu Cheng , Lin Li , Li Yong
Published: August 2022

Amphiregulin (AREG) is a ligand of epidermal growth factor receptor and participates in the fibrosis of multiple organs. However, whether AREG can regulate hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is not well known. This research aims to explore the effect of AREG on cardiac hypertrophy, and whether the oxidative stress and apoptosis was involved in the influence of AREG on cardiac hypertrophy. Angiotensin (Ang) II induced cardiac hypertrophy in mice and neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) or HL-1 cells in vitro. AREG expressions raised in the heart of mice. After AREG downregulation, the increases of Ang II induced cardiac weight and cardiomyocytes area were inhibited. Down-regulation of AREG could inhibit Ang II induced the increases of atrial natriuretic peptide, brain natriuretic peptide, beta-myosin heavy chain in the heart of mice, and NRCMs and HL-1 cells. The enhancement of oxidative stress in mice heart with Ang II treatment was alleviated by AREG knockdown. The raises of Ang II induced Bax and cleaved caspase3 in mice heart were inhibited by AREG downregulation. AREG downregulation reduced myocardial hypertrophy via inhibition of oxidative and apoptosis. AREG may be a target for future cardiac hypertrophy treatment.
Tau levels are higher in objective subtle cognitive decline but not subjective memory complaint
Authors: Thomas Kelsey R. , Weigand Alexandra J. , Edwards Lauren C. , Edmonds Emily C. , Bangen Katherine J. , Ortiz Gema , Walker Kayla S. , Bondi Mark W. ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: August 2022

Background

The 2018 NIA-AA Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) Research Framework states that subtle cognitive decline in cognitively unimpaired individuals can be measured by subjective reports or evidence of objective decline on neuropsychological measures. Both subjective memory complaint (SMC) and objective subtle cognitive decline (Obj-SCD) have been shown to be associated with future cognitive decline and AD biomarkers. We examined whether there are differences in tau PET levels between (a) SMC− vs. SMC+ participants, (b) Obj-SCD− vs. Obj-SCD+ participants, and (c) participants with overlapping vs. discrepant SMC and Obj-SCD classifications.

Methods

Cognitively unimpaired participants from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI; n = 236) were classified at baseline as positive or negative for SMC (SMC− n = 77; SMC+ n = 159) based on the first 12 items of the Cognitive Change Index and/or classified as positive or negative for Obj-SCD (Obj-SCD− n = 173; Obj-SCD+ n = 63) based on previously defined neuropsychological criteria. Analyses of covariance, adjusting for age, sex, APOE ε4 carrier status, and pulse pressure, examined the group differences in tau PET (AV-1451) using a composite standardized uptake variable ratio (SUVR) for regions consistent with Braak stage III/IV. The chi-squared tests examined the tau positivity rates across the groups.

Results

Obj-SCD+ participants had higher tau continuous SUVR levels (p = .035, ηp2 = .019) and higher rates of tau positivity (15.8% Obj-SCD− vs. 30.2% Obj-SCD+) than Obj-SCD− participants. Neither tau levels (p = .381, ηp2 = .003) nor rates of tau positivity (18.2% SMC− and 20.1% SMC+) differed between the SMC groups. There was very little agreement between SMC and Obj-SCD classifications (42%; κ = 0.008, p = .862). Participants who were Obj-SCD+ without SMC had the highest tau PET levels and differed from participants who were SMC+ without Obj-SCD (p = .022). Tau levels in participants with both SMC and Obj-SCD did not differ from those with only Obj-SCD (p = .216). Tau positivity rates across the SMC-/Obj-SCD−, SMC+/Obj-SCD−, SMC−/Obj-SCD+, and SMC+/Obj-SCD+ groups were 10.5%, 18.1%, 40.0%, and 25.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

Participants with Obj-SCD had a greater tau PET burden than those without Obj-SCD, but SMC was not associated with higher tau levels. The combination of SMC and Obj-SCD did not have higher tau levels than Obj-SCD alone. Findings add to the evidence that the Obj-SCD classification is associated with AD biomarkers and faster cognitive decline in ADNI participants, but further work is needed to validate this approach in more representative/diverse cohorts.
Microarray detection method for pathogen genes by on-chip signal amplification using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase
Authors: Kim Tai-Yong , Lim Min-Cheol , Lim Jeong-A , Choi Sung-Wook , Woo Min-Ah
Published: August 2022

A microarray detection method based on on-chip signal amplification using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) was developed to visualize pathogenic genes. Cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) substrate for microarrays was treated with oxygen plasma to induce hydrophilic surface properties. The capture probe DNA was immobilized on the COC surface by UV irradiation. The 3ʹ end of the capture probe DNA immobilized on the COC surface was modified with a phosphate group to provide resistance against the TdT reaction. Therefore, the TdT reaction was triggered only when the capture probe DNA acquired the target gene, and biotin-11-deoxyuridine triphosphate (b-dUTP) was continuously added to the 3ʹ end of the target gene. Thereafter, streptavidin-conjugated gold nanoparticles (s-AuNPs) tagged the poly uridine tails by the biotin–streptavidin interaction. The visual signal was amplified by silver enhancement in the presence of the s-AuNPs. The usefulness of this detection method was confirmed by analyzing four pathogens and allowing their visual identification.