bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Increased Interleukin-35 Suppresses Peripheral CD14+ Monocytes Function in Patients with Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Xing Haijian , Tian Gang 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: Interleukin-35 (IL-35) is a newly identified IL-12 cytokine family member, which regulates the activity of immune cells in infectious diseases and autoimmune disorders. However, the regulatory function of IL-35 in Kawasaki disease is not well elucidated.Methods: Thirty-three patients with Kawasaki disease and seventeen healthy controls were studied. Peripheral IL-35 concentration was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. CD14+ monocytes were purified, and mRNA expression of IL-35 receptor (IL-12Rβ2 and gp130) was semi-quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. CD14+ monocytes were stimulated with recombinant IL-35. The modulatory role of IL-35 treated CD14+ monocytes to naïve CD4+ T cell activation was investigated by flow cytometry. The influence of IL-35 to cytotoxicity of CD14+ monocytes was assessed by measuring target cell death, cytokine and granzyme secretion.Results: Plasma IL-35 concentration was elevated in patients with Kawasaki disease. There was no significant differences of either IL-12Rβ2 or gp130 mRNA expression in CD14+ monocytes between Kawasaki disease patients and controls. IL-35 suppressed CD14+ monocytes induced naïve CD4+ T cell activation in Kawasaki disease, and this process required direct cell-to-cell contact. IL-35 also inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and granzyme B secretion by CD14+ monocytes from patients with Kawasaki disease, however, only granzyme B was responsible for the cytotoxicity of CD14+ monocytes.Conclusions: IL-35 played an important immunosuppressive role to CD14+ monocytes function in Kawasaki disease.
The density and peaks of seasonal activity of Dermacentor reticulatus ticks in eastern Poland
Authors: Zając Zbigniew , Woźniak Aneta , Kulisz Joanna 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: Next to Ixodes ricinus , Dermacentor reticulatus ticks are the most important reservoir and vector of infectious diseases in Europe. In recent years, progressing expansion of D. reticulatus ticks into new territories and an increase in their population size in areas of their previous occurrence have been observed.Methods: The studies on tick population density were conducted in Lublin Province, eastern Poland. The investigated area was divided into 101 equal squares (plots). Additionally, studies on seasonal activity in the preferred habitat of the ornate cow ticks were conducted from 2014 to 2019 in the Polesie National Park.Results: Throughout the study on the tick population density, 19559 adult D. reticulatus specimens were collected. An average density of the ornate cow ticks in Lublin Province was 96.8 specimens/100 m 2 . A significant impact on the tick population density is exerted by meadow areas (Rs=0.281, p=0.0044), while weather conditions have no effect (H=6.08, p=0.1931). The local population of D. reticulatus ticks in the eastern and middle regions of Lublin Province exhibits predominance of spring activity peaks, while autumnal seasonal activity peaks prevail in the rest of the region. Multiannual monitoring of the seasonal activity of D. reticulatus in the Polesie National Park shows the prevalence of autumnal activity peaks in 2014-2019 and spring activity peaks in 2019.Conclusions: The area of Lublin Province is characterized by high density of the ornate cow ticks. Local populations of D. reticulatus show two peaks of seasonal activity. Dynamics of seasonal activity of D. reticulatus is influenced by availability of their hosts. The highest risk of ornate cow tick attacks on animals and humans occurs during spring in the eastern part and in autumn in the western part of Lublin Province.
Comparative analysis of visual performance and astigmatism tolerance with monofocal, bifocal, and extended depth-of-focus intraocular lenses targeting slight myopia
Authors: Xu Jie , Zheng Tianyu , Lu Yi 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
BackgroundTo compare the visual performance and astigmatism tolerance of 3 intraocular lens (IOLs): monofocal, bifocal, and extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOLs targeting slight myopia.MethodsOverall, there were 60 cataract surgery eyes from 60 patients with implantation of a monofocal, bifocal or EDOF IOL (20 eyes in each IOL group). The EDOF IOLs targeted slight myopia (-0.25 D to -0.75 D). Intragroup comparison of visual acuity, defocus curve, objective optical quality, contrast sensitivity, Visual function questionnaire scores, patients’ overall satisfaction, and the astigmatism tolerance were performed 3 months after surgery.ResultsThe EDOF group provided equivalently excellent distance visual outcomes (0.06±0.12) as the monofocal (0.06±0.09) and bifocal (0.03±0.09) groups (P=0.554), better intermediate vision than the other 2 groups (P<0.05), and similarly satisfactory near visual outcomes (0.23±0.16 at 20 cm, and 0.17±0.14 at 33 cm) as the bifocal group (0.28±0.14 at 20 cm, and 0.08±0.10 at 33 cm) (P>0.05). The contrast sensitivity of EDOF IOL was slightly decreased compared to that of monofocal IOL, but it was better than that of bifocal IOL. The EDOF group showed significantly higher satisfaction than the bifocal group did when preoperative corneal astigmatism was 0.75 D or greater (P=0.009). A significant negative correlation between the corneal astigmatism and patient satisfaction was observed in only the bifocal group. ConclusionsThe EDOF IOLs targeting slight myopia offered satisfactory visual outcomes at an extended range from far to near distances. The EDOF and monofocal IOLs showed a better tolerance to astigmatism than did the bifocal IOL.
A glucotolerant β-glucosidase from the fungus Talaromyces amestolkiae and its conversion into a glycosynthase for phenolic compounds glycosylation.
Authors: Méndez-Líter Juan Antonio , Nieto-Domínguez Manuel , de Toro Beatriz Fernández , Santana Andrés González , Prieto Alicia , Asensio Juan Luis , Cañada Francisco Javier , de Eugenio Laura Isabel , Martinez Maria Jesus 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: The interest for finding novel b-glucosidases that can improve the yields for the production of second-generation (2G) biofuels is still very high. One of the most desired features for these enzymes is the glucose tolerance, which allows them to act optimally under elevated glucose concentrations. Besides, there is an additional focus of attention on finding novel enzymatic alternatives for glycoside synthesis, for which a mutated version of glycosidases, named glycosynthases, have gained much interest in recent years. Results: In this work, a glucotolerant β-glucosidase (BGL-1) from the ascomycete fungus Talaromyces amestolkiae has been heterologously expressed in Pichia pastoris , purified, and characterized. The production of the enzyme in the yeast was very high, reaching 75 U/mL, and it allowed purification in just one step with a yield of 80%. Although the enzyme showed good efficiency on p NPG ( K m =3.36 ± 0.7 mM, k cat =898.31 s -1 ), the activity detected on cellooligosaccharides, the natural substrates of the enzyme, was much lower, which could limit its exploitation in lignocellulose degradation processes. Interestingly, when examining the substrate specificity of BGL-1, it showed to be more active on sophorose, the b-1,2 disaccharide of glucose, than on cellobiose. Besides, the transglycosylation profile of BGL-1 was examined, and, for expanding its synthetic capacities, it was converted into a glycosynthase. The mutant enzyme, named BGL-1-E521G, was able to use α-D-glucosyl-fluoride as donor in glycosylation reactions, and synthesized glucosylated derivatives of different p NP-sugars in a regioselective manner, as well as of some phenolic compounds of industrial interest, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Conclusions: In this work, we report the characterization of a novel glucotolerant 1,2-β-glucosidase, which also has a considerable activity on 1,4-β-glucosyl bonds, that has been cloned in P. pastoris , produced, purified and characterized. In addition, the enzyme was converted into an efficient glycosynthase, which can transfer glucose molecules to glucose to a diversity of acceptors for obtaining compounds of interest. The remarkable capacities of BGL-1 and its glycosynthase mutant, both in hydrolysis or in synthesis, suggest that it could be an enzyme with applications for industrial processes.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Usage and Co-prescription with Other Potentially Interacting Drugs in Elderly: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Abdu Nuru , Teweldemedhin Samuel , Mosazghi Asmerom , Asfaha Luwam , Teshale Makda , Kibreab Mikal , Habte Eyasu , Anand Indermeet Singh , Russom Mulugeta 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Introduction: Globally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) usage in the elderly with chronic pain has been reported as frequent. Though it is fundamental in maintaining their quality of life, the risk of polypharmacy, drug interactions and adverse effects is of paramount importance as the elderly usually require multiple medications for their co-morbidities. If prescriptions are not appropriately monitored and managed, they are likely to expose patients to serious drug interactions and potentially fatal adverse effects. Thus, the objective of the study was to assess the appropriateness of NSAIDs use and incidence of NSAIDs related potential interactions in elderly. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly out-patients (aged 60 and above) who visited three hospitals in Asmara between August 22 and September 29, 2018. The sampling design was two-stage random sampling and data was collected using a questionnaire, exit interview and by abstracting information from patients’ clinical cards. Descriptive and analytical statistics including chi-square test and logistic regression were employed using SPSS. Results: A total of 285 elderly respondents were enrolled in the study with similar male to female ratio. One in four of all respondents were chronic NSAIDs users, of which 74.6% were not prescribed prophylactic gastro-protective agents (GPAs). About 20% of the elderly were involved in polypharmacy and nearly all of the encountered potential NSAIDs related interactions (n=322) with prescribed drugs were moderate. Diabetes and hypertension were significantly associated with chronic NSAIDs use (OR=3, 95% CI: 1.54, 5.84; OR=9.99, 95% CI: 4.46, 22.38) and incidence of drug interactions (OR=3.95, 95%CI: 1.92, 8.13; OR=3.12, 95%CI: 1.81, 5.33) while diabetes and cardiac problem were significantly associated with incidence of polypharmacy (OR=4.33, 95% CI: 2.36, 7.96; OR=3.56, 95% CI: 1.05, 12.11). Conclusion: Though the overall reflection of prescription pattern of NSAIDs during the study period was almost satisfactory, gastro-protective agents were poorly prescribed as a prophylaxis.
Characterization of the Lactobacillus plantarum A3 with novel fermentation properties
Authors: Lang Fengxuan , Wen Jianzhu , Wu Zhen , Pan Daodong , Zeng Xiaoqun , Cai Zhendong , Guo Yuxing , Liu Xiaotao 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
The use of probiotic starters in the milk fermentation could provide the dairy products with unique flavors, textures and some health benefits. In this research, L. plantarum A3 was identified as a probiotic with good fermentation characters during the texture and flavor formation of yoghurt. The hardness, consistency, viscosity, and viscosity coefficient of the yoghurt were enhanced when fermented with L. plantarum as the higher activity of β-galactosidase and lactate dehydrogenase in the mixed culture condition. The contents of amino acids and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were found accumulated in L. plantarum fermented yoghurt besides the butanoic acid, acetone. Sensory profiling evaluation with electronic tongue system proved the novel taste of L. plantarum fermented yoghurt were significant different with the former plain yoghurt. Indeed, yoghurt fermentation with L. plantarum A3 indeed has a good quality and nutrition properties compared with the traditional strains and the relationship between the traditional fermentation strains and probiotics still need further investigation to meet the nutrition requirements of varies consumers.
HIV/AIDS research in Africa and the Middle East: participation and equity in North-South collaborations and relationships.
Authors: González-Alcaide Gregorio , Menchi-Elanzi Marouane , Nacarapa Edy , Ramos-Rincón José-Manuel 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: HIV/AIDS has attracted considerable research attention since the 1980s. In the current context of globalization and the predominance of cooperative work, it is crucial to analyze the participation of the countries and regions where the infection is most prevalent, African continent being the hardest hit (67.5% of estimated cases). This study assesses the participation of African countries in publications on the topic, as well as the degree of equity or influence existing in North-South relations.Methods : We identified all articles and reviews of HIV/AIDS indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection. We analyzed the scientific production, collaboration, and contributions from African and Middle Eastern countries to scientific activity in the region. The concept of leadership was used to determine the equity in research produced through international collaboration. Results: A total of 68,808 documents published from 2010 to 2017 were analyzed. Researchers from North America and Europe participated in 82.14% of the global scientific production on HIV/AIDS, compared to just 21.61% from Africa and the Middle East. Furthermore, the research that did come out of these regions was concentrated in a small number of countries, led by South Africa (41% of the documents). Other features associated with HIV/AIDS research from Africa include the importance of international collaboration from the USA, the UK, and other European countries (75%-93% of the documents) and the limited leadership that is evident (30% to 36% of the documents). Finally, the research to which African countries contributed had a notably different disciplinary orientation, with a predominance of research on public health, epidemiology, and drug therapy.Conclusions: It is essential to foster more balance in research output, avoid the concentration of resources that reproduces the global North-South model on the African continent, and focus the research agenda on local priorities. To accomplish this, the global North should strengthen the transfer of research skills and seek equity in cooperative ties, favoring the empowerment of African countries. These efforts should be concentrated in countries with low scientific activity and high incidence and prevalence of the disease. It is also essential to foster intraregional collaborations between African countries.
Towards Improving the Identification of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears in Primary Point-of-Care Settings
Authors: Whittaker Jackie L , Chan Michelle , Pan Bo , Hassan Imran , Defreitas Terry , Hui Catherine , Macedo Luciana , Otto David 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
BackgroundOnly a small proportion of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are diagnosed on initial healthcare consultation. Current clinical guidelines do not acknowledge that primary point-of-care practitioners rely more heavily on a clinical history than special clinical tests for diagnosis of an ACL tear. This research will assess the accuracy of combinations of patient-reported variables alone, and in combination with clinician-generated variables to identify an ACL tear as a preliminary step to designing a primary point-of-care care clinical decision support tool.MethodsElectronic medical records (EMRs) of individuals aged 15-45 years, with ICD-9 codes corresponding to a knee condition, and confirmed (ACL+) or denied (ACL-) first-time ACL tear seen at a University-based Clinic between 2014 and 2016 were eligible for inclusion. Demographics, relevant diagnostic indicators and ACL status based on orthopaedic surgeon assessment and/or MRI reports were manually extracted. Descriptive statistics calculated for all variables by ACL status. Univariate between group comparisons, clinician surveys (n=17), availability of data and univariable logistic regression (95%CI) were used to select variables for inclusion into multivariable logistic regression models that assessed the odds (95%CI) of an ACL-tear based on patient-reported variables alone (consistent with primary point-of-care practice), or in combination with clinician-generated variables. Model performance was assessed by accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and positive and negative likelihood ratios (95%CI).ResultsOf 1,512 potentially relevant EMRs, 725 were included. Participant median age was 26 years (range 15-45), 48% were female and 60% had an ACL tear. A combination of patient-reported (age, sport-related injury, immediate swelling, family history of ACL tear) and clinician-generated variables (Lachman test result) were superior for ACL tear diagnosis [accuracy; 95%CI (90,98), sensitivity; 0.97 (0.88,0.98), specificity; 0.95 (0.82,0.99)] compared to the patient-reported variables alone [accuracy; 84% (77,89), sensitivity; 0.60 (0.44,0.74), specificity; 0.95 (0.89,0.98)].Conclusions﻿A high proportion of individuals without an ACL tear can be accurately identified by considering patient-reported age, injury setting, immediate swelling and family history of ACL tear. These findings directly inform the development of a clinical decision support tool to facilitate timely and accurate ACL tear diagnosis in primary care settings.
Association of PIN3 16-bp Duplication Polymorphism of TP53 gene with Breast Cancer Risk in Mali and A Meta-analysis.
Authors: Diakite Brehima , Kassogue Yaya , Dolo Guimogo , Kassogue Oumar , Keita Mamadou Lassine , Joyce Brian , Neuschler Erin , Wang Jun , Musa Jonah , Traore Cheick Bougari , Kamate Bakarou , Dembele Etienne , Sellama Nadifi , Isichei Mercy , Holl Jane L , Murphy Robert , Doumbia Seydou , Hou Lifang , Maiga Mamoudou 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background Breast cancer, the most common tumor in women in Mali and worldwide has been linked to several risk factors including genetic factors, such as the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism of TP53 gene. The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism in the susceptibility to breast cancer in the Malian population and to perform a meta-analysis to better understand the correlation with data from other populations.Methods We analyzed the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism in blood samples of 60 Malian women with breast cancer and 60 healthy appearing Malian women using PCR. In addition, we performed a meta-analysis of data from case-control studies published in articles retrieved from international databases (Pubmed, Harvard University Library, Genetics Medical Literature Database, Genesis Library and Web of Science). Overall, odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI from fixed and random effects models were determined. Inconsistency was used to assess heterogeneity between studies and publication bias was estimated using the funnel plot.ResultsIn the Malian patients studied here, a significant association of PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism with breast cancer risk was observed in dominant (A1A2+A2A2 vs. A1A1: OR = 2.26, CI 95% = 1.08-4.73; P = 0.02) and additive (A2 vs. A1: OR =1.87, CI 95% = 1.05-3.33; P = 0.03) models, but not the recessive model ( P = 0.38). In the meta-analysis, nineteen (19) articles were included with a total of 6,018 disease cases and 4,456 controls. Except for the dominant model ( P = 0.15), an increased risk of breast cancer was detected with the recessive (OR=1.46, 95% CI = 1.15-1.85; P = 0.002) and additive (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.02-1.19; P = 0.01) models.Conclusion The Malian case-control study suggests that PIN3 16-bp polymorphism duplication of TP53 gene is an important risk factor for breast cancer in Malian women. These data are supported by the meta-analysis of broader ethnic and population groups.
Obesity Epidemic in Urban Tanzania: A Public Health Calamity in an already Overwhelmed and Fragmented Health System.
Authors: Pallangyo Pedro , Mgopa Lucy , Mkojera Zabella S. , Hemed Naairah R. , Swai Happiness J. , Bhalia Smita , Millinga Jalack , Mushi Theophil L. , Kabeya Lucia , Omar Aisha , Kaijage Alice , Mulashani Rydiness , Mosha Silvia , Mwapinga Faustina , Janabi Mohamed 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background Worldwide, the epidemiological and demographic transitions have resulted in nutrition shift characterized by an increased consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and energy-dense fast food products. In just over 3 decades, overweight and obesity rates have nearly tripled to currently affecting over a third of the global population. Notwithstanding the ever present under-nutrition burden, sub Saharan Africa (SSA) is witnessing a drastic escalation of overweight and obesity. We aimed to explore the prevalence and associated factors for obesity among residents of Dar es Salaam city in Tanzania.Methods Participants from this study were recruited during a community screening conducted in Dar es Salaam. Sociodemographic and clinical data were gathered using a structured questionnaire during enrollment. Dietary habits, anthropometric measurements and blood pressure were assessed. All statistical analyses utilized STATA v11.0 software. Pearson Chi square and Student’s T-test were used to compare categorical and continuous variables respectively. Linear logistic regression analyses were used to assess for factors associated with BMI≥25. All tests were 2-sided and p<0.05 was used to denote a statistical significance.Results A total of 6691 participants were enrolled. The mean age was 43.1 years and males constituted 54.2% of all participants. Over two-thirds of participants were alcohol consumers and 6.9% had a positive smoking history. Eighty eight point three percent of participants were underactive, 4.7% had a history of diabetes mellitus and 18.1% were known to have elevated blood pressure. Overweight and obesity were observed in 34.8% and 32.4% of participants respectively. Among overweight and obese participants, 32.8% had a misperception of having a healthy weight. Age≥40, female sex, a current working status, habitual breakfast skipping, poor water intake, high soft drink consumption, regular fast food intake, low vegetable and fruit consumption, alcohol consumption and elevated blood pressure were found to be independent associated factors for obesity.Conclusion A sizeable proportion of participants were overweight or obese. Concomitantly, the rates of physical inactivity and unhealthy eating are disproportionately high. In view of this, community-based and multilevel public health strategies to promote and maintain healthy eating and physical activity require an urgent step-up in urban Tanzania.