bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of intraoperative blood transfusion on Treg and FOXP3 in patients with digestive tract malignancies and different ABO blood types
Authors: Liu Yajun , Sun Junzhi , Xia Yun , Lyaker Michael R. , Yu Jianshe 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
Blood transfusion can cause immunosuppression and lead to worse outcomes in patients with digestive tract malignancies; however, the specific mechanism behind this is not completely understood. One theory is that increased numbers of regulatory CD3+CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T cells (Tregs) and forkhead box protein-3 mRNA (FOXP3) expression in the blood after transfusion contribute to these outcomes. The effect of blood transfusion on immune function in patients with different ABO blood types is variable. This study investigates the effect of intraoperative blood transfusion on the number of Tregs and the expression of FOXP3 in the blood of patients with different ABO blood types and digestive tract malignancies.

Methods
Patients with digestive tract malignancies who underwent radical resection and received intraoperative blood transfusion were divided into four groups according to their blood types:blood group A, blood group B, blood group O and blood group AB (n = 20 for each group). Blood was collected from all patients before surgery, immediately after transfusion, 1 day after transfusion, and 5 days after transfusion. The number of Tregs was measured by flow cytometry. The expression of FOXP3 was detected by real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results
There was no significant difference in the number of Tregs or expression of FOXP3 mRNA among patients with different blood types before surgery. However, the number of Tregs and the expression of FOXP3 increased after blood transfusion in all blood type groups. This increase was especially evident and statistically significant on the first day after blood transfusion when compared with measures obtained before the surgery. Measures returned to the preoperative level five days after surgery. There were significant differences in the increase of Tregs and expression of FOXP3 among patients with different blood types. The greatest increase was seen in patients with blood group B and the least in blood group A.

Conclusions
Intraoperative blood transfusion can lead to an increase in blood Tregs and FOXP3 expression in patients with digestive tract malignancies. Increases were greatest on the first day after surgery and differed among patients with different blood types. Increases were greatest in blood type B and least in blood type A.
Dynamic analysis of CSF1R-related leukoencephalopathy on magnetic resonance imaging: a case report
Authors: Huang Huasheng , Cao Liming , Chen Hong 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R)-related leukoencephalopathy is a rare and rapidly progressive leukoencephalopathy characterized by cognitive, motor, and neuropsychiatric symptoms, which is often misdiagnosed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signs and follow-up MRI of CSF1R-related leukoencephalopathy could help in establishing a diagnosis, but these features are not widely known by general neurologists.

Case presentation
A 34-year-old man was admitted for progressive weakness of the right limbs over 8 months. His father and sister had a similar clinical evolution. The primary neurological signs were hemiplegia, cognitive decline, dysarthria, pyramidal signs, ataxia and parkinsonism, and rapid disease progression. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis results were normal. Despite receiving treatment for improving cerebral metabolism and relieving the muscle spasm, his symptoms did not improve significantly. Brain MRI showed lesions concentrated in the corpus callosum and the deep white matter of the bilateral parieto-occipital lobes, periventricular areas, and corticospinal tracts. There was an enhanced lesion after a gadolinium-enhanced MRI scan. Over the 8-month progression, the lesions always exhibited restricted diffusion. The diffuse lesions gradually increased as the disease progressed. Genetic sequencing results showed a novel heterozygous missense mutation (c.2267 T > C p.L756P) in the CSF1R gene. The patient was treated with citicoline and idebenone for 4 days to improve cerebral metabolism, but his symptoms did not improve significantly.

Conclusion
The multiple lesions involving the pyramidal tract and white matter showed continuously restricted diffusion on brain imaging and gradually increased with disease progression.
Comparative study of combined vitrectomy with phacoemulsification versus vitrectomy alone for primary full-thickness macular hole repair
Authors: Valmaggia Christophe , Kostadinov Filip , Lang Corina , Guber Josef 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
To assess the effectiveness and safety of 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy combined with phacoemulsification versus vitrectomy alone in patients over 50 years with primary full-thickness macular holes (FTMH).

Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the medical records related to 406 consecutive vitrectomies performed for primary FTMH. Phacovitrectomy was performed in 294 phakic eyes whereas vitrectomy alone in 112 pseudophakic eyes. The cases were divided into three groups according to the stage of the FTMH: stage 2 (n = 93), stage 3 (n = 270), or stage 4 (n = 43). The primary outcome measure was the closure of the FTMH. The secondary outcome measures were the evolution of visual acuity as well as intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Results
Neither the primary nor the secondary outcomes differed between phacovitrectomy and vitrectomy alone for all three stages. The FTMH were closed in 375 eyes (92.4 %) after a first operation. The closure rate was higher for stage 2 (96.8 %) than for stages 3 (91.1 %) or 4 (90.75 %), but not significantly (P = 0.189). The mean visual acuity increased significantly from preoperatively LogMAR 0.68 (± SD 0.2) to LogMAR 0.43 (± SD 0.24) at the end of the follow-up (p < 0.001).

Conclusions
Combined 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy with phacoemulsification for primary FTMH repair in patients over 50 years is as efficient and safe when compared with vitrectomy only.

Trial registration
The study was approved on 30th April 2020 by the local ethics committee (Ethikkommission Ostschweiz, EKOS 20/074; BASEC Nr. 2020-01033).
Long-term ocular biometric variations after scleral buckling surgery in macula-on rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Albanese Giuseppe Maria , Cerini Alberto , Visioli Giacomo , Marenco Marco , Gharbiya Magda 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
Myopic shift and biometric ocular changes have been previously observed after scleral buckling (SB) surgery in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), but long term-term outcomes had not yet been explored. The purpose of present study is to evaluate long term ocular biometric changes in patients with primary macula-on RRD treated with SB.

Methods
In this retrospective, observational study, we reviewed the medical records of patients undergoing SB surgery for macula-on RRD. Ocular biometry was performed before and at the most recent visit after surgery. Axial length (AXL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior corneal astigmatism and spherical equivalent in treated eyes were compared before and after surgery as well as with those of fellow eyes.

Results
Thirty-four eyes of 17 patients with a mean age of 57.0 ± 8.9 years were included. The mean follow-up duration was 50.9 ± 21.9 months (median 53.0; range 12 to 82 months). A significant postoperative AXL increase of 0.83 mm and a concomitant myopic shift of 1.35 diopters was observed in the operated eyes (p <  0.0001). The preoperative AXL was the only predictive factor of AXL change after surgery (B = 0.152, 95% CI 0.059 to 0.245, β = 0.668, P = 0.003). Compared to fellow eyes, a postoperative ACD shallowing of 0.1 mm was found in operated eyes (p <  0.05), while there were no long-term changes of anterior corneal astigmatism.

Conclusions
We show that the preoperative AXL is the only predictive factor of AXL increase after SB surgery. Scleral encircling induces a concomitant long-term shallowing of the AC, therefore fourth generation intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulae should be used for patients requiring cataract surgery after SB.
Analytical validation of a real-time hydrolysis probe PCR assay for quantifying Plasmodium falciparum parasites in experimentally infected human adults
Authors: Wang Claire Y. T. , Ballard Emma L. , Pava Zuleima , Marquart Louise , Gaydon Jane , Murphy Sean C. , Whiley David , O’Rourke Peter , McCarthy James S. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
Volunteer infection studies have become a standard model for evaluating drug efficacy against Plasmodium infections. Molecular techniques such as qPCR are used in these studies due to their ability to provide robust and accurate estimates of parasitaemia at increased sensitivity compared to microscopy. The validity and reliability of assays need to be ensured when used to evaluate the efficacy of candidate drugs in clinical trials.

Methods
A previously described 18S rRNA gene qPCR assay for quantifying Plasmodium falciparum in blood samples was evaluated. Assay performance characteristics including analytical sensitivity, reportable range, precision, accuracy and specificity were assessed using experimental data and data compiled from phase 1 volunteer infection studies conducted between 2013 and 2019. Guidelines for validation of laboratory-developed molecular assays were followed.

Results
The reportable range was 1.50 to 6.50 log10 parasites/mL with a limit of detection of 2.045 log10 parasites/mL of whole blood based on a parasite diluted standard series over this range. The assay was highly reproducible with minimal intra-assay (SD = 0.456 quantification cycle (Cq) units [0.137 log10 parasites/mL] over 21 replicates) and inter-assay (SD = 0.604 Cq units [0.182 log10 parasites/mL] over 786 qPCR runs) variability. Through an external quality assurance program, the QIMR assay was shown to generate accurate results (quantitative bias + 0.019 log10 parasites/mL against nominal values). Specificity was 100% after assessing 164 parasite-free human blood samples.

Conclusions
The 18S rRNA gene qPCR assay is specific and highly reproducible and can provide reliable and accurate parasite quantification. The assay is considered fit for use in evaluating drug efficacy in malaria clinical trials.
Phenotypic alteration of macrophages during osteoarthritis: a systematic review
Authors: Zhu Xiaobo , Lee Chien-Wei , Xu Hongtao , Wang Yu-Fan , Yung Patrick S. H. , Jiang Yangzi , Lee Oscar K. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Objective
Osteoarthritis (OA) has long been regarded as a disease of cartilage degeneration, whereas mounting evidence implies that low-grade inflammation contributes to OA. Among inflammatory cells involved, macrophages play a crucial role and are mediated by the local microenvironment to exhibit different phenotypes and polarization states. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to uncover the phenotypic alterations of macrophages during OA and summarized the potential therapeutic interventions via modulating macrophages.

Methods
A systematic review of multiple databases (PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Medline) was performed up to February 29, 2020. Included articles were discussed and evaluated by two independent reviewers. Relevant information was analyzed with a standardized and well-designed template.

Results
A total of 28 studies were included. Results were subcategorized into two sections depending on sources from human tissue/cell-based studies (12 studies) and animal experiments (16 studies). The overall observation indicated that M1 macrophages elevated in both synovium and circulation during OA development, along with lower numbers of M2 macrophages. The detailed alterations of macrophages in both synovium and circulation were listed and analyzed. Furthermore, interventions against OA via regulating macrophages in animal models were highlighted.

Conclusion
This study emphasized the importance of the phenotypic alterations of macrophages in OA development. The classical phenotypic subcategory of M1 and M2 macrophages was questionable due to controversial and conflicting results. Therefore, further efforts are needed to categorize macrophages in an exhaustive manner and to use advanced technologies to identify the individual roles of each subtype of macrophages in OA.
Predictive Value of Serum Lipid for Intravenous Immunoglobulin Resistance and Coronary Artery Lesion in Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Shao Shuran , Zhou Kaiyu , Liu Xiaoliang , Liu Lei , Wu Mei , Deng Yuxin , Duan Hongyu , Li Yifei , Hua Yimin , Wang Chuan 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Context
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance and coronary artery lesions (CALs) prediction are pivotal topic of interests in Kawasaki disease (KD). However, data on the predictive value of lipid profile for both IVIG resistance and CALs are limited.

Purpose
To investigate the predictive validity of lipid profile for IVIG resistance and CALs in KD.

Design
Prospective cohort study.

Setting
West China Second University Hospital.

Patients
363 KD patients were divided into the initial IVIG-resistant group and initial IVIG-responsive group; repeated IVIG-resistant group and repeated IVIG-responsive group; CAL+ group and CAL− group.

Main Outcome Measures
Validity of lipid profile in predicting IVIG resistance and CALs.

Results
Triglycerides were significantly higher whereas total cholesterol (TC), high-densisty lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoprotein A (Apo A) were significantly lower in initial IVIG-resistant subjects, with cut-off values of 1.625 mmol/L, 3.255 mmol/L, 0.475 mmol/L, 1.965 mmol/L, and 0.665 g/L, yielding sensitivities of 52%, 70%, 52%, 61%, and 50% and specificities of 68%, 53%, 78%, 71%, and 81%, respectively. TC, LDL-C, and Apo A levels were significantly lower in repeated IVIG-resistant subjects, with cut-off values of 3.20 mmol/L, 1.78 mmol/L, and 0.605 g/L, producing sensitivities of 91%, 70%, and 57% and specificities of 55%, 67%, and 70%, respectively. Apo A level was significantly lower in the CAL+ group, with cut-off value of 0.805 g/L, yielding sensitivity of 66% and specificity of 54%.

Conclusions
Lipid profiles were significantly dysregulated in KD patients suffering IVIG resistance and CALs. Some of them, such as LDL-C and Apo A, could serve as complementary laboratory markers for predicting both IVIG resistance and CALs.
Pituitary Tumors and Immortalized Cell Lines Generated by Cre-Inducible Expression of SV40 T Antigen
Authors: Daly Alexandre Z , Mortensen Amanda H , Bando Hironori , Camper Sally A 
Published: April 2021

AbstractTargeted oncogenesis is the process of driving tumor formation by engineering transgenic mice that express an oncogene under the control of a cell-type specific promoter. Such tumors can be adapted to cell culture, providing immortalized cell lines. To make it feasible to follow the process of tumorigenesis and increase the opportunity for generating cell lines, we developed a mouse strain that expresses SV40 T antigens in response to Cre-recombinase. Using CRISPR/Cas9 we inserted a cassette with coding sequences for SV40 T antigens and an internal ribosome entry site with green fluorescent protein cassette (IRES-GFP) into the Rosa26 locus, downstream from a stop sequence flanked by loxP sites: Rosa26LSL-SV40-GFP. These mice were mated with previously established Prop1-cre and Tshb-cre transgenic lines. Both the Rosa26LSL-SV40-GFP/+; Prop1-cre and Rosa26LSL-SV40-GFP/+; Tshb-cre mice developed fully penetrant dwarfism and large tumors by 4 weeks. Tumors from both of these mouse lines were adapted to growth in cell culture. We have established a progenitor-like cell line (PIT-P1) that expresses Sox2 and Pitx1, and a thyrotrope-like cell line (PIT-T1) that expresses Pou1f1 and Cga. These studies demonstrate the utility of the novel, Rosa26 LSL-SV40-GFP mouse line for reliable targeted oncogenesis and development of unique cell lines.
Postconcussion Depressive Symptoms and Clinical Assessment Associations in Adolescents
Authors: Callahan Christine E. , Moore Robert Davis , Kay Jacob J.M. , Colwell Alison , Register-Mihalik Johna K. , Vesia Michael , Broglio Steven P. 
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT

Purpose
Concussive injury and depression are connected through common overlapping symptoms. This retrospective data analysis aimed to establish an association between postconcussion depressive symptoms and postconcussion clinical measures (concussion symptoms, balance performance, vestibular function, and executive function) while controlling for concussion history, time from injury, age, and sex in concussed adolescents.

Methods
Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory for Youth. Postconcussion assessments included the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire, Balance Error Scoring System, Vestibular/Ocular-Motor Screening, and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function. Separate multiple linear regression models were utilized for each dependent variable (concussion symptoms, balance performance, vestibular function, and executive function). For each model, the primary explanatory variable was depressive symptoms, and covariates included concussion history, time from injury, age, and sex.

Results
Depressive symptoms were significantly associated with concussion symptoms (P < 0.001), vestibular function (P < 0.05), and executive function (P = 0.001).

Conclusions
This study builds upon current literature surrounding the relationship between concussion and depression by identifying an association between depressive symptoms and postconcussion clinical assessments. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating postconcussive psychological symptoms and may serve to inform future rehabilitation strategies following up concussed adolescents.
The many faces of disability in evidence for policy and practice: embracing complexity
Authors: Rivas Carol , Tomomatsu Ikuko , Gough David 
Published: April 2021

Background: This special issue examines the relationship between disability, evidence, and policy.
Key points: Several themes cut across the included papers. Despite the development of models of disability that recognise its socially constructed nature, dis/ableism impedes the involvement of people with disability in evidence production and use. The resultant incomplete representations of disability are biased towards its deproblematisation. Existing data often homogenise the heterogeneous. Functioning and impairment categories are used for surveys, research recruitment and policy enactments, that exclude many. Existing data may crudely evidence some systematic inequalities, but the successful and appropriate development and enactment of disability policies requires more contextual data. Categories and labels drawn from a deficit model affect social constructions of identity, and have been used socially and politically to justify the disenfranchisement of people with disability. Well rehearsed within welfare systems, this results in disempowered and devalued objects of policy, and, as described in one Brazilian paper, the systematic breakup of indigenous families. Several studies show the dangers of policy developed without evidence and impact assessments from and with the intended beneficiaries.
Conclusions and implications: There is a need to mitigate barriers to inclusive participation, to enable people with disability to collaborate as equals with other policy actors. The combined application of different policy models and ontologies, currently in tension, might better harness their respective strengths and encourage greater transparency and deliberation regarding the flaws inherent in each. Learning should be shared across minority groups.
Wo ist Gott in der Pandemie? Theologische Überlegungen aus Praxis und Reflexion kirchenleitenden Handelns
Authors: Bedford-Strohm Heinrich 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The pandemic has confronted the churches with various difficult questions both practical and theological. Is there a responsible way of celebrating worship in the churches without risking people’s health? Numerous creative new digital formats were developed in the parishes to offer alternatives. How does God work in the pandemic? Is there any causal connection between God and the virus? The responses to this question are not only of philosophical importance, but have fundamental consequences on how we pray and how we identify God’s presence in our lives. Some responses affirm God’s role in the origin of the virus, e.g. by identifying the work of the deus absconditus in it, others emphasize the mysteriousness of God’s action, others see God’s action in God’s spirit of creative energy to overcome suffering in human and non-human nature. The latter approach is developed by an understanding of God based on God’s revelation in Jesus Christ and an eschatological interpretation of its visibility beyond current experiences of destruction and despair.
Gottesdienstliches digitales Neuland in Zeiten der Pandemie. Ein Erfahrungsbericht in theologischer Absicht
Authors: Springhart Heike 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This paper offers reflections of broadcasted church services by describing and analyzing concrete experiences with online services, which are produced professionally by using the chances and means of filming. From that vantage point general theological issues in the COVID-19 era are addressed, in particular those that are related to the transformation in celebrating services. The importance of bodily resonances and the importance of synchronicity are addressed as well as the ecclesiological issue about the various publics and the various ways in which the church speaks. The various aspects are connected by the conviction that the practical and ethical necessities in times of COVID-19 raise general theological questions beyond the pandemic.
Trostbedürftig und hassgefährdet. Religiosität in Zeiten globaler Krisen
Authors: Welker Michael 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The article shows that severe global crises, such as we are currently experiencing, threaten not only natural and mental life, but also spiritual life. Self-confidence, trust in the world and trust in God are shaken. For theology and the churches, self-examination and self-criticism should be the first priority in this situation. Long-held misconceptions of God and God's omnipotence and nature-romantic notions of creation urgently need to be corrected. Constructively, the powers of the divine Spirit, a spirit of justice, freedom, truth, peace and human kindness should be recognized, appreciated and strengthened. This Spirit gives multiform comfort and counteracts the dangers of the spread of a multifaceted hatred. The danger of hatred not only in its loud and aggressive forms, but also in the quieter forms of increasing unkindness and decreasing trust in God, paralyzing resignation and indifference, is counteracted by the Spirit of comfort in an overwhelming way. It surrounds us from all sides, not only in family, friendship, therapeutic and pastoral relationships. As a Spirit of practiced justice, freedom, truth and peace, it is a worldwide source of reassurance, security, confidence, courage and new hope.