bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
mir-21a-5p promote the progress of inflammation after Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury via up-regulating neurotoxic reactive astrocyte (A1) polarization by inhibiting CNTF/STAT3/Nkrf pathway
Authors: Zhang Yining , Meng Tingting , Chen Jianan , Zhang Ying , Kang Jianning , Li Xinyu , Yu Guilian , Tian Lige , Jin Zhengxin , Dong Hui , NING BIN 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background

Reactive astrocytes play an important role in Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury (TSCI). Interestingly, naive astrocytes can easily transform into neurotoxic reactive astrocytes(A1s) when inflammatory stimulation occurs. Previous researches have reported that miR-21a-5p is involved in the regulation of various stages of Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). However, it is not clear whether miR-21a-5p affected the polarization of reactive astrocytes. The purpose of our study was to detect the effects and mechanism of miR-21a-5p in the induction of neurotoxic reactive astrocytes (A1s) formation.
Methods

Gene chip assay and qRT-PCR were used to detect the expression of Cntfr α in TSCI models or sham operation. Bioinformatics analysis was used to speculate the potential targeting of miR-21a-5p, which was further confirmed by qRT-PCR, western blotting, a dual-luciferase reporter assay, and RNA pulldown assay. In vivo, the TSCI model was performed by a 68099Ⅱ precision percussion device, and the A1s phenotype was identified by immunofluorescence staining. In vitro, A1s were induced by IL-1 α, TNF-α, and C1q. A1s and neuroprotective reactive astrocytes (A2s) markers were confirmed by qRT-PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence. ChIP assay was used to explore the targeting gene of STAT3, the downstream of Cntfr α.
Results

The expression of miR-21a-5p was significantly increased while Cntfr α was decreased since naive astrocytes transformed into A1s after 3 days post-TSCI. In addition, the mRNA and protein of Cntfr α were decreased while miR-21a-5p was overexpressed. The binding site between miR-21a-5p and Cntfr α was further confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pulldown assay. We also discovered that A1s markers were decreased while markers of A2s were increased with the pretreatment of CNTF. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay was used to prove that CNTF inhibited A1s induction by activating the expression of Nkrf via the CNTF/STAT3 pathway. Downregulation of miR-21a-5p enhanced the inhibitory effect of CNTF in A1s in vitro. In vivo, the expression of A1s markers significantly decreased with the treatment of antagomir-21, while Cntfr α siRNA treatment was just the opposite.
Conclusion

We observed that increased miR-21a-5p down-regulated Cntfr α in A1s induced by TSCI, promoting the inflammatory process. In addition, we also identified the effect and potential mechanism of CNTF, a specific ligand of CNTFR α, on inhibiting naive astrocytes transformed into A1s for the first time. Collectively, our studies demonstrated that targeting miR-21a-5p is a prospective therapy for curing TSCI.
Metastatic Adenocarcinoma to the Breast arising from a Mediastinal Mature Teratoma with Somatic Malignancy: A Case Report with a Review of the Literature
Authors: ARHANT Gwenaëlle , Mirdad Dahlia , Berghian Anca , PITON Nicolas , Sabourin Jean-Cristophe 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background

Malignant transformation in mature teratomas, especially somatic-type malignancies, are extremely rare phenomena with few cases described in the literature. In the mediastinum, these lesions are often accompanied by metastases, ultimately unmasking them.
Case presentation

We report an exceptional case of metastatic adenocarcinoma to the breast arising from a mediastinal mature teratoma with malignant transformation in a 31-year-old female. The patient initially presented with a breast lesion that was later diagnosed as either a triple negative ductal carcinoma or a metastatic adenocarcinoma of unknown origin. Extensive clinical workup and radiological imagining revealed an anterior mediastinal mass. Subsequent pathological examination of the mass showed a mature teratoma with malignant transformation equivalent to that found in the breast biopsy.
Conclusion

Mediastinal teratomas with malignant transformation (TMTs) are rare entities; however these tumors should be suspected in cases of suspicious mediastinal masses presenting with unusual clinical and radiological signs, such as metastasis of unknown primary origin. Pathological corroboration of extensive sampling and meticulous microscopic examination is crucial for the diagnosis in order to tailor subsequent treatment.
Needs and Wishes for the Future Exoskeleton: an Interview Study Among People With Spinal Cord Injury With Community-based Exoskeleton Experience
Authors: Dijsseldonk Rosanne B. van , Vriezekolk Joke E. , Keijsers Noël L.W. , Geurts Alexander C.H. , Nes Ilse J.W. van 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Exoskeleton use by people with complete spinal cord injury (SCI) in daily life is still a challenge. To optimize its daily life use, a better understanding of the purpose of use and the accompanying improvements are needed. The perspective of experienced exoskeleton users provides an important contribution to the improvement of future exoskeletons.Methods: Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were held with 13 people with SCI, who were experienced exoskeleton users. Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed and analysed thematically.Results: Participants expressed three future purposes of exoskeleton use: for daily activities, exercise, and social interaction. Exoskeleton use during daily activities was the ultimate goal. Therefore, the future exoskeleton should be: easy to use, small and lightweight, tailor made, safe, comfortable, less distinctive, durable, and affordable. Improving the ease of use was relevant for all purposes, for all participants. The other suggestions for improvement varied depending on the purpose of use and the participant. Conclusions: Increasingly more advanced improvements to future exoskeletons are needed to transition from an exercise purpose, to social interaction, and ultimately use during daily activities. In the current study, detailed suggestions for improvements from experienced exoskeleton users have been made. Only when multiple of these suggestions are adjusted, can the exoskeleton be used to its full potential.
Is Area-level Socioeconomic Deprivation Associated With Mortality Due to Circulatory System Diseases in Poland?
Authors: Jamiołkowski Jacek , Genowska Agnieszka , Pająk Andrzej 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background. Socioeconomic status (SES) influences cardiovascular health, but studies on the relation between deprivation and circulatory system diseases (CSD) in Eastern Europe are scarce. This study aimed to assess the relationship between SES and mortality from CSD at the population level in 66 sub-regions of Poland.Methods. Area-based index based on education, structure in employment, salary, unemployment and poverty was constructed to assess SES. Data on mortality and the components of SES were obtained from the Central Statistical Office. Associations were tested using multivariate Poisson regression models.Results. In men, compared to 2010, percent of Deaths Prevented or Postponed (DPP) in 2014 was 31.1% for CSD, 23.4% for ischemic heart disease (IHD) and 21.4% for cerebrovascular diseases (CD). In women proportion, of DPP was 12.8%, 25.6% and 21.6 respectively. CSD mortality was negatively related to SES with the exception to CD mortality in women. However, low-SES regions experienced a greater decrease in CSD mortality than high-SES regions.Conclusions. Decrease of CSD mortality was more pronounced in women than in men, particularly in more deprived sub-regions compared with affluent regions. After adjustment for covariates SES was related with CSD and IHD mortality in men, and with CD mortality women.
Buffalo Gut Microbes May Affect the Host Th2 Responses During Fasciola Gigantica Infection via SCFAs Metabolism and TLR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Jun , Sheng Zhao’an , Wang Dongying , Zhang Yaoyao , Shi Wei , Ma Ning , Mei XueFang , Peng Hao , Chen Zhongwei , Pan Yan , Zhong Shuhong , Huang Weiyi , Luo Hong-lin 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Helminth-induced Th2 responses are essential to modify the structure and diversity of gut microbes. However, observations have come mainly from studies of helminth-infected humans or rodent models. Very little research has been conducted in veterinary animals. Methods: In this study, we searched for links between microbiota and Th2-biased responses during the time course of Fasciala gigantica infection in buffaloes.16S rRNA gene amplicon and metagenome sequencing were applied to analyze the structure and function of the gut microbiota. Results: Both alpha and beta diversities decreased during infection, and gut microbes differed considerably across different sections of the gut at different stages. Immune responses changed when the microbiota traverses the gut wall into the peritoneal cavity, in line with the changes in Th2 response induced by F. gigantica infection. We found that the order Coriobacteriales was greatly decreased at the early stages in which the Peptostreptococcaceae and Family_XIII families are closely linked to the upregulation of IgG1 and IL4, respectively. The F. gigantica infection significantly reduced short-chain fatty acid (SCFAs)-producing microbes, reduced the concentrations of gut SCFAs and downregulated the SCFAs-producing metabolic pathways. In addition, The microbes associated with TLR2 increased and showed similar trend to the TLR2 and Th2 cytokine production during infection, suggesting that bacteria ligands might recognize TLR2 and subsequently induce a Th2-biased response. Conclusions: Our data show that buffalo gut microbes may affect the host Th2 response during F. gigantica infection via the SCFAs metabolism and TLR signaling pathway. These findings provide new insights into the relationship between F. gigantica–microbiota-host, which may provide new potential therapeutic targets for prevention and control Fasciolosis.
Development of a Prognostic Model for Colorectal Cancer Based on Four EMT-related Genes
Authors: Hung Shuoyang , Yang Chao , Cao Fengyu , He Xiaobo , Zheng Yongbin 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) greatly affects the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) which is one of the most malignant tumors. The goal of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of EMT-related genes and develop a prognostic nomogram for patients’ overall survival (OS) with CRC. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed gene expression profiles and clinical data in 1099 samples of CRC patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Risk signature based on public databases was created and examined for its predictive value in CRC patients. The independence and correlation of risk signature with clinicopathological parameters were respectively evaluated through univariate/multivariate analysis and subgroup analysis. A nomogram was established according to risk signature and clinical parameters and validated for its predictive ability. The correlation of risk signature and infiltrating immune cells in CRC was assessed.Results: A four EMT-related genes (ERGs) based signature was constructed and validated for its ability in prognostic prediction in CRC patients. The results showed the ERGs signature as an independent prognostic factor regarding different clinicopathological parameters including age, gender and clinical stage. Besides, the ERGs signature also performed well in subgroup analysis with T3-T4, N-, M0 and early disease stage. A nomogram based on the ERGs signature combining clinical parameters was constructed which showed a promising predictive ability in prognosis of CRC patients’ OS. In addition, we found a positive correlation of the ERGs signature with six different types of immune cells.Conclusion: A novel ERGs signature was identified in this study and ERGs signature can be useful in predicting the prognosis of CRC patients.
Knowledge and Level of Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures: A Bi-national Web-based Survey in Africa&nbsp;
Authors: Omotoso Olabode E , Awoyemi Precious-Paul , Wahab Victor James , Ragab Mahmoud , Teibo John O. , Akinfe Opeyemi , Matareek Amira 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
With increasing daily incidence and mortality, the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been a threat to public health and human co-existence since its outbreak in December 2019. Globally, COVID-19 has ravaged over 200 countries and has resulted in over a million deaths within few months of its outbreak. As the disease curve begins to flatten in most countries, the instituted regulatory guidelines were receded to mitigate the effect on citizens and national economy. Hence, we assessed the knowledge and level of adherence of Nigerians and Egyptians to the COVID-19 precautionary measures. A web-based cross-sectional questionnaire was utilized to obtain 915 respondents via a convenient sampling technique. Most Egyptians (87%) had satisfactory COVID-19 knowledge compared to Nigerians (40%). Age (18 – 30 years), tertiary education and educational background (medical or scientific) were major factors that influenced respondents’ COVID-19 knowledge levels. The level of adherence of most respondents (59.1%) to COVID-19 precautionary measures was unsatisfactory. Although majority (73%) believes that the precautionary measures are required to curtail the menace of COVID-19. Only a few (57%) use face mask in public, avoided touching their eyes or mouth with unwashed hands (45%), avoided non-essential travel (36%), go out only for essential reasons (28%) and keep at least 2-meters distance (27%). The coronavirus pandemic and the instituted regulatory policies had a negative effect on respondents’ education, school or job (90.3%), finance (87.9%) and social interaction (87.5%).Assessing the knowledge and level of adherence to COVID-19 precautionary measures can prove effective in identifying and modifying measures in place to reduce the COVID-19 burden. Information on social media platforms on COVID-19 must be monitored and verified to ensure the right information is disseminated. Both countries showed a good knowledge of the disease but adherence to the precautionary measures is unsatisfactory. We therefore encourage increased adherence to the guidelines in order to avoid an unnecessary second wave of the disease in Africa. Similarly, with the adverse effect of the pandemic on people’s finance, education, job and social interaction, support should be made available to cushion these effects on the populace.
The Mental Health Impact of COVID-19 Outbreak: A Nationwide Survey in Iran
Authors: Shahriarirad Reza , Erfani Amirhossein , Ranjbar Keivan , Bazrafshan Amir , Mirahmadizadeh Alireza 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Disease outbreak not only carries the risk of death to the public due to the infection, but it also can lead to unbearable psychological impact on the mental health of the individuals. This study aims to explore and evaluate the burden of psychological problems on the Iranian general population during the outbreak of COVID-19.Method: A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted among the general population of Iran age 15 and above. Demographic variables, depression, and anxiety symptoms were evaluated using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and General Anxiety Disorder-7 questionnaires.Results: Among the 8591 participants, the mean age was 34.37 (±11.25) years and 66.4% were female while 33.6% were male. Based on our results, 1295 (15.1%) and 1733 (20.1%) of the general population clinically significant depressive and anxiety symptoms respectively. Based on the demographic variables, female gender was associated with a higher risk for developing depression and anxiety symptoms, whereas getting information about the disease from medical journals and articles, being older, and being married were considered as associated protective factors. In terms of depression, being a healthcare worker was an associated risk factor. On the other hand, for anxiety, having higher education was a protective factor while a higher number of individuals in a household was considered as a risk factor.Conclusions: This study identified a major mental health problem in the Iranian population during the time of the COVID-19 outbreak. Therefore, establishing a targeted mental health support program during the time of public emergencies, such as the disease outbreak, is advised.
Intraventricular haemorrhage in a Ugandan cohort of low birth weight neonates: The IVHU study.
Authors: MacLeod Rachael , Paulson Joseph N , Okalany Noella , Okello Francis , Acom Linda , Ikiror Juliet , Cowan Frances M , Tann Cally J , Dyet Leigh E , Hagmann Cornelia F , Burgoine Kathy 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
BackgroundGlobally, 15 million neonates are born prematurely every year, over half in low income countries (LICs). Premature and low birth weight neonates have a higher risk of intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH). There are minimal data regarding IVH in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to examine the incidence, severity and timing of and modifiable risk factors for IVH amongst low-birth-weight neonates in Uganda.MethodsThis is a prospective cohort study of neonates with birthweights of ≤2000g admitted to a neonatal unit (NU) in a regional referral hospital in eastern Uganda. Maternal data were collected from interviews and medical records. Neonates had cranial ultrasound (cUS) scans on the day of recruitment and days 3, 7 and 28 after birth. Risk factors were tabulated and are presented alongside odds ratios (ORs) and adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for IVH incidence. Outcomes included incidence, timing and severity of IVH and 28-day survival. ResultsOverall, 120 neonates were recruited. IVH was reported in 34.2% of neonates; 19.2% had low grade (Papile grades 1-2) and 15% had high grade (Papile grades 3-4). Almost all IVH (90.2%) occurred by day 7, including 88.9% of high grade IVH. Of those with known outcomes, 70.4% (81/115) were alive on day 28 and survival was not associated with IVH. We found that vaginal delivery, gestational age (GA) <32 weeks and resuscitation in the NU increased the odds of IVH. Of the 6 neonates who received 2 doses of antenatal steroids, none had IVH. ConclusionIn this resource limited NU in eastern Uganda, more than a third of neonates born weighing ≤2000g had an IVH and the majority of these occurred by day 7. We found that vaginal birth, earlier gestation and need for resuscitation after admission to the NU increased the risk of IVH. This study had a high rate of SGA neonates and the risk factors and relationship of these factors with IVH in this setting needs further investigation. The role of antenatal steroids in the prevention of IVH in LICs also needs urgent exploration.
Associations of physical performance and physical activity with mental well-being in middle-aged women
Authors: Bondarev Dmitriy , Sipilä Sarianna , Finni Taija , Kujala Urho M. , Aukee Pauliina , Kovanen Vuokko , Laakkonen Eija , Kokko Katja 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the associations of physical performance with positive and negative dimensions of mental well-being in middle-aged women and explore the role of physical activity (PA) in these associations. Methods: Data were drawn from the Estrogenic Regulation of Muscle Apoptosis (ERMA) study in which women 47 to 55 years were randomly selected from the Finnish National Registry. They (n=909) participated in measurements of physical performance (handgrip force, knee extension force, vertical jumping height, maximal walking speed, and six-minute walking distance). Both mental well-being (the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the International Positive and Negative Affect Schedule Short Form and the Satisfaction with Life Scale) and PA were self-reported. Associations between variables were analysed using multivariate linear regression modelling adjusted for body height, fat mass %, menopausal status and symptoms, marital status, parity, employment status, self-reported mental disorders, and use of psycholeptics and psychoanaleptics. PA was then entered into a separate model to explore its role in the associations.Results: In the adjusted models, significant positive associations of six-minute walking distance with positive affectivity (B=0.12, p=0.002) and life satisfaction (B=0.15, p=0.033) were observed. No significant associations were observed between physical performance and depressive symptoms or negative affectivity. PA was positively associated with positive affectivity and life satisfaction and negatively with depressive symptoms across all the physical performance variables. Conclusion: The results point to the benefits of physical activity for mental well-being. However, in addition to PA, of the physical performance measures, the aerobic component of physical performance is especially beneficial for positive mental well-being in middle-aged women.
Working condition and health status of 6,317 front line public health workers during the COVID-19 epidemic across 5 provinces in China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Jinghua , Xu Jingdong , Zhou Huan , You Hua , Wang Xiaohui , Li Yan , Liang Yuan , Li Shan , Ma Lina , Zeng Jing , Cai Huanle , Xie Jinzhao , Pan Chenghao , Hao Chun , Gilmour Stuart , Lau Joseph Tak-fai , Hao Yuantao , Xu Dong Roman , Gu Jing 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Public health workers at Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) and primary health care institutes (PHI) constitute one of the main workforces for implementing prevention and control measures to contain the COVID-19 epidemic, but their efforts and health status have not been well documented. We aimed to investigate the working conditions and health status of frontline public health workers in China during the epidemic. Methods: Between February 18 to March 1, 2020, we conducted a cross-sectional survey among 2,313 CDC workers and 4,004 PHI workers in five provinces across China experiencing different scales of COVID-19 epidemic. We interviewed all participants about their work conditions, roles, burdens, perceptions, mental health, and self-rated health using a self-constructed questionnaire and standardized measurements (i.e., Patient Health Questionnaire and General Anxiety Disorder scale). To examine the independent associations between working conditions and health outcomes, we used multivariate regression models controlling for potential confounders. Results: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and poor self-rated health was 21.3%, 19.0%, and 9.8%, respectively, among public health workers (27.1%, 20.6% and 15.0% among CDC workers; and 17.5%, 17.9% and 6.8% among PHI workers). The majority (71.6%) participated in both field and non-field work and gave immense efforts. Nearly 20.0% have worked all night for more than 3 days and 45.3% had worked during the whole period of Chinese New Year. Three risk factors and two protective factors were found independently associated with all three health outcomes in our final multivariate models, including working all night for >3 days (ORm=1.67~1.75, p<0.001), concerns about being infected at work (ORm=1.46~1.89, p<0.001), perceived troubles at work (ORm=1.10~1.28, p<0.001), starting COVID-19 prevention work after January 23 (ORm=0.78~0.82, p=0.002~0.008), and capability to persist for more than 1 month at the current work intensity (ORm=0.44~0.55, p<0.001). Conclusions: Chinese public health workers gave immense efforts and personal sacrifices to curb the COVID-19 epidemic and were exposed to risk of mental health problems. Efforts should be taken to improve the working condition and health status of public health workers to maintain the morale and effectiveness of public health workers in the fight against the epidemic.