Study of Three Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Samples from Guilan, North of Iran

Abstract Introduction Finding biomarkers for highly lethal cancers is a priority. Objective The current study was designed to understand the clinical significance of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression as the biomarkers, and evaluate their correlation with each other, in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in the province of Guilan, North of Iran. Methods Gene expression was evaluated in 25 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) blocks from cases of confirmed NPC and 20 FFPE samples of non-NPC by quantifying messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein levels, using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) methods, respectively. Furthermore, the correlations among the protein levels of different genes, along with the patients' demographic characteristics were assessed. Results Our findings on mRNA and protein levels demonstrated that the expression of the LMP1 gene in the NPC group was significantly elevated compared with that of the non-NPC group. In addition, the protein levels in the NPC group indicated a positive and significant correlation between LMP1 and VEGF expression. It was noted that both protein and mRNA levels showed no significant differences in the expression of TNF-α and VEGF genes between the NPC and control groups. Furthermore, there was no significant relationship between the expression of these proteins and the demographic characteristics of NPC patients. Conclusion Overall, a significant increase in LMP1 expression was observed in NPC patients, which may serve as a diagnostic biomarker for NPC. Also, LMP1 might be involved in NPC progression by inducing VEGF gene expression.

Importance of so called "novel cardiovascular risk factors" in severity of coronary artery calcification; how serious they should be taken: a systematic review and metaanalysis / Importancia de los denominados "factores novedosos de riesgo cardiovascular" en la severidad de la calcificación de las arterias coronarias; qué tan serios deben tomarse: una revisión sistemática y un metaanálisis

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases are among important causes of death. Atherosclerosis is an important etiology for coronary artery diseases in which coronary artery calcification plays a principal role. Recently novel cardiovascular risk factors in coronary calcification are under attention. In this study, we investigated possible association between novel cardiovascular risk factors and coronary calcification. This is a prospectively registered systematic review and meta-analysis in PROSPERO and was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Medical databases were searched. Primary papers were screened and studies reporting our outcomes of interest were selected for data extraction. Quantitative data syntheses were performed using Comprehensive Meta-analysis Ver.3. In this study, 5252 papers were screened and finally 28 papers including 31241 patients underwent data extraction. Based on our findings, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (8 out of 10), red cell distribution width (r = 0.250, p < 0.0001), and interleukin 6 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.101 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.001-1.210], p = 0.047) were associated with severity of coronary calcification while C-reactive protein (one out of eight) was not associated with coronary calcification. Results of lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (r = -0.120, p < 0.001), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (OR: 1.47 [95% CI: 0.89-2.41, p = 0.124]), and MPV (r = 0.017, p = 0.814 vs. OR: 1.91 [95% CI: 1.28-2.85, p = 0.002]) remained controversial due to few number of included studies or contrary results. We can conclude that neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, red cell distribution width, and interleukin-6 are significantly associated with coronary calcification and C-reactive protein is not significantly associated with severity of coronary calcification. Our results about mean platelet volume, platelet/lymphocyte ratio, and lymphocyte/monocyte ratio are not reliable and require further investigations.

Resumen Las enfermedades cardiovasculares se encuentran entre las primeras causas de mortalidad. La aterosclerosis es una etiología importante de las enfermedades de las arterias coronarias en la que la calcificación de las arterias coronarias juega un papel principal. Recientemente, se están prestando atención a factores novedosos de riesgo cardiovascular en la calcificación coronaria. En este estudio investigamos la asociación posible entre los factores novedosos de riesgo cardiovascular y la calcificación coronaria. Esta es una revisión sistemática y metaanálisis registrados de forma prospectiva en PROSPERO y se realizó de acuerdo con las pautas de PRISMA. Se realizaron búsquedas en bases de datos médicas. Se examinaron los artículos primarios y se seleccionaron para la extracción de datos los estudios cuyos resultados fueron de nuestro interés. Las síntesis de datos cuantitativos se realizaron utilizando Comprehensive Meta-analysis Ver.3. En este estudio se seleccionaron 5252 artículos y finalmente se extrajeron los datos de 28 artículos que incluían 31241 pacientes. Según nuestros hallazgos, la proporción de neutrófilos/linfocitos (8 de 10), el ancho de distribución de glóbulos rojos (r = 0,250, valor de p < 0.0001) y la interleucina 6 (OR: 1.101 [IC del 95%: 1.001-1.210], valor p = 0.047) se asociaron con la gravedad de la calcificación coronaria, mientras que la proteína C reactiva (1 de 8) no se asoció con la calcificación coronaria. Resultados de la proporción linfocitos/monocitos (r = -0,120, valor p < 0,001), la proporción plaquetas/linfocitos (OR: 1,47 [IC 95%: 0.89-2.41, valor p = 0.124]) y el volumen plaquetario medio (r = 0.017, valor p = 0.814 C. OR: 1.91 [IC 95%: 1.28-2.85, valor p = 0.002]) siguieron siendo polémicos debido al escaso número de estudios incluidos o resultados contrarios. Podemos concluir que la proporción de neutrófilos/linfocitos, el ancho de distribución de los glóbulos rojos y la interleucina 6 se asocian significativamente con la calcificación coronaria y la proteína C reactiva no se asocia significativamente con la gravedad de la calcificación coronaria. Nuestros resultados sobre el volumen plaquetario medio, la proporción de plaquetas/linfocitos y la proporción de linfocitos/monocitos no son confiables y requieren más investigaciones.

Blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in systemic lupus erythematous (SLE): a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Objectives BDNF has been implicated in the pathophysiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), especially its neuropsychiatric symptoms. The purpose of this study was to investigate the profile of blood BDNF levels in patients with SLE. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for papers that compared BDNF levels in SLE patients and healthy controls (HCs). The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of the included publications, and statistical analyses were carried out using R 4.0.4. Results The final analysis included eight studies totaling 323 healthy controls and 658 SLE patients. Meta-analysis did not show statistically significant differences in blood BDNF concentrations in SLE patients compared to HCs (SMD 0.08, 95% CI [− 1.15; 1.32], P value = 0.89). After removing outliers, there was no significant change in the results: SMD -0.3868 (95% CI [− 1.17; 0.39], P value = 0.33. Univariate meta-regression analysis revealed that sample size, number of males, NOS score, and mean age of the SLE participants accounted for the heterogeneity of the studies (R2 were 26.89%, 16.53%, 18.8%, and 49.96%, respectively). Conclusion In conclusion, our meta-analysis found no significant association between blood BDNF levels and SLE. The potential role and relevance of BDNF in SLE need to be further examined in higher quality studies.

Investigation of the prevalence of deciduous teeth caries and its correlation with nutritional status among kindergarten children in Zhag yab of Tibet in 2022 / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To investigate the health of deciduous teeth and the effect of deciduous teeth caries on the nutritional status of Tibetan children in kindergartens in Zhag-yab of Tibet, so as to provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of dental caries in local children.@*Methods@#A cross sectional survey was conducted among all Tibetan children aged 3 to 7 years in kindergartens from 13 districts in Zhag yab of Tibet, a total of 1 263 eligible children were included. Oral examination, height, weight measurement and hemoglobin test were performed. The health status of children was evaluated according to WHO diagnostic criteria of dental caries rate, average of decayed missing filled tooth(DMFT), malnutrition and anemia, and the correlation between deciduous teeth caries and nutritional status of children were analyzed.@*Results@#The overall deciduous teeth caries prevalence rate of Tibetan children in Zhag yab kindergarten was 62.6%, and the mean dmft was (4.0±4.6). Aged 3, 4, 5, 6, 7-year-old children s deciduous teeth caries rate were 31.1%, 55.3%, 63.8%, 70.9%, 76.6%, respectively, mean dmft were (1.1±2.0) (2.9±3.4) ( 3.5± 3.3) (5.4±5.4) (5.9±6.6) respectively. The prevalence of deciduous teeth caries and mean dmft increased with age, and the differences among age groups were statistically significant ( χ 2/F=72.17, 33.47, P <0.05). The overall detection rate of malnutrition( 25.4% ), stunting(12.3%), underweight(12.6%), wasting(10.9%) and anemia(29.6%) in caries children were higher than those in children without caries(19.5%, 8.1%, 6.1%, 6.6%, 15.5%), the differences were statistically significant ( χ 2=5.81, 5.49, 13.61 , 6.52, 32.02, P <0.05). Caries children s overweight rate (3.7%) was higher than that of children without caries (3.4%), obesity rate ( 1.3% ) was lower than that of children without caries(1.9%), there was no statistically significant difference ( χ 2=0.07, 0.82, P >0.05).@*Conclusion@#The problem of deciduous teeth caries in kindergartens in Zhag yab is serious, and it is closely related to the occurrence of malnutrition and anemia. The prevention and intervention of dental caries in local children should be strengthened.

Investigation and clarification of traditional measuring units of Tibetan medicine / 中国中药杂志

Quantity is the key factor to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medicines. It is very important to study and determine the traditional measuring units and their quantity values of Tibetan medicine. Based on the literature records of Tibetan medicine and combined with modern experimental verification and investigation research, this study determined the reference, name, and conversion rate of traditional measuring units of Tibetan medicine. Meanwhile, through large sample sampling and repeated quantification of refe-rence of basic units, its weight and volume were clarified. The modern SI volume and weight unit values corresponding to the traditional volume and weight units of Tibetan medicine were deduced, and the correctness, reliability, and practicability of these determination results were demonstrated. This study also put forward some specific suggestions and reference values for formulating the standards of measuring units of weight and volume of Tibetan medicine. It is of great significance in guiding the processing, production, and clinical treatment of Tibetan medicine, and promoting the standardization and standardized development of Tibetan medicine.

Nutritional Status of Children Aged 3 to 7 Years in Zhag′yab， Tibet / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo understand the physical development level of 3-7 years old children in Zhag′yab， and to provide reference for local health decision-making. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2021 and July 2021， with a sample of 1 247 Tibetan children aged 3-7 years from kindergartens in 13 districts of Zhag′yab. Their height and weight were measured and the hemoglobin was detected by a unified method. Standard statistical method was adopted （Z-score method）. Z-scores of length /height-for-age （HAZ）， Z-scores of weight-for-age （WAZ）， Z-scores of body mass index （BMI）-for-age （BAZ） and Z-scores of weight-for-height （WHZ） were calculated by WHO Anthro v3.2.2 and WHO Anthro Plus. The nutritional status of children was evaluated according to WHO diagnostic criteria for malnutrition and anemia. ResultsThe average WAZ and HAZ of children aged 3 to 7 in Zhag′yab were lower than the WHO standards，except for the WAZ of 4-year old， the differences were statistically significant （P<0.05）. The overall detection rate of malnutrition was 25.7%， stunting， underweight， wasting， overweight， obesity and anemia were 11.6%， 11.8%， 10.8%， 3.3%， 1.8% and 29.3%， respectively. The detection rates of all indicators in boys were higher than those in girls， and the differences were not statistically significant （P>0.05）. The overweight rate and obesity rate of rural children were lower than those of urban children， and the other detection rates were higher than those of urban children. The differences of underweight rate， obesity rate and anemia rate were statistically significant between urban and rural children （P<0.05）. Among the detection rates of all indicators in different age groups， there were statistically significant differences in the overweight rate and the anemia rate （P<0.05）. The overweight rate of children aged 4 and the anemia rate of children aged 5 were the highest. ConclusionsThe physical development of children aged 3 to 7 in Zhag′yab is poor， and the prevalence of malnutrition and anemia is high. Underweight and anemia are more serious in rural children， and the overweight and obesity problem of urban children is emerging. More attention should be paid to promote their nutritional status. The prevention and intervention of children’s malnutrition should be strengthened in Zhag′yab.

Long non-coding RNA HOTAIR induces the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in breast cancer cells

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway is essential for proper cellular metabolism and cell growth. However, aberrant activation of this pathway has been linked to the progression and metastasis of breast cancer. Recently, the role of long non-coding RNAs in interfering with the cell signaling pathways involved in cell growth and metabolism has been identified. HOX antisense intergenic RNA is an long non-coding RNA whose abnormal expression has been associated with development, therapy resistance, and metastasis of breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the long non-coding RNA HOX antisense intergenic RNA is linked to the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway in breast cancer cells. METHODS: HOX antisense intergenic RNA was silenced in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 using siRNAs. Subsequently, the gene expression level of HOX antisense intergenic RNA, PI3K, AKT, and mTOR was assessed using real-time RT-PCR. Also, the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol- 2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide) assay was used to analyze cell proliferation. RESULTS: The results revealed that HOX antisense intergenic RNA knockdown can downregulate the expression of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR RNAs compared to negative control in MCF-7 cells. In addition, the proliferation of breast cancer cells was significantly reduced following the HOX antisense intergenic RNA silencing. CONCLUSION: This study may introduce HOX antisense intergenic RNA as a molecule involved in the upregulation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway in breast cancer cells that may contribute to breast cancer cell proliferation.

Effect of 8% arginine toothpaste on Streptococcus mutans in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment: randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the effect of toothpaste containing 8% arginine on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) in dental plaque around orthodontic brackets, and to draw a comparison with a regular fluoride toothpaste. Trial design: A single-center, parallel-arm, triple-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted. Methods: The clinical trial was conducted at the Orthodontic Clinic, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. Seventy-two patients (age range: 15-30 years) who required fixed orthodontic treatment were recruited and randomly assigned to arginine and fluoride groups. Randomization was performed using RANDOM.ORG online software, and the participants were divided into two parallel groups, with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Patients were requested to brush their teeth twice daily for 30 days with an experimental toothpaste. Plaque sampling was performed at two intervals, namely at the beginning of the study (T0) and 30 days later (T1). Real-time PCR was used to assess plaque samples in terms of the number of S. mutans surrounding stainless steel brackets in orthodontic patients. A triple-blind design was employed. Results: The baseline characteristics (age, sex, and the relative number of S. mutans) between the groups were similar (p>0.05). Only the arginine group showed a significant decrease in the relative number of bacteria between T0 and T1 (p=0.02). Conclusion: Arginine is an important prebiotic agent in maintaining healthy oral biofilms, and prevent dental caries during fixed orthodontic treatments. Trial registration: The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20181121041713N2), https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/42409/view.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito de um dentifrício contendo arginina a 8% no Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) da placa bacteriana ao redor de braquetes ortodônticos, e compará-lo a um dentifrício fluoretado convencional. Desenho do estudo: Foi conduzido um estudo unicêntrico, com braços paralelos, triplo-cego, controlado e randomizado. Métodos: O ensaio clínico foi conduzido na Clínica de Ortodontia da Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade de Ciências Médicas de Shiraz, no Irã. Setenta e dois pacientes (com idades variando de 15 a 30 anos) que necessitavam de tratamento ortodôntico com aparelho fixo foram recrutados e alocados aleatoriamente nos grupos arginina ou flúor. A randomização foi feita usando o programa on-line RANDOM.ORG, e os participantes foram divididos em dois grupos paralelos, com proporção de alocação de 1:1. Solicitou-se aos pacientes que escovassem os dentes duas vezes ao dia com a pasta experimental, durante 30 dias. Amostras da placa bacteriana foram coletadas em dois intervalos: ao começo do estudo (T0) e após 30 dias (T1). Um PCR em tempo real foi usado para avaliar as amostras de placa, em termos de números de S. mutans ao redor dos braquetes de aço inoxidável nos pacientes ortodônticos. Um desenho de estudo triplo-cego foi usado. Resultados: As características iniciais (idade, sexo e quantidade relativa de S. mutans) foram semelhantes entre os grupos (p>0,05). Apenas o grupo arginina mostrou uma redução significativa na quantidade de bactérias entre T0 e T1 (p=0,02). Conclusão: A arginina é um agente prebiótico importante na manutenção de biofilmes bucais saudáveis, e previne as cáries dentárias durante o tratamento ortodôntico com aparelho fixo. Registro do ensaio: O ensaio foi registrado no Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20181121041713N2), https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/42409/view.

Association of psychological and behavioral development with stunting of Tibetan children aged 0-5 years in Tibet / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To understand the current situation of psychological and behavioral development of Tibetan children aged 0-5 years in Tibet, and to provide basic data for analyzing the relationship between stunning and children s psychological and behavioral development.@*Methods@#A total of 2 788 Tibetan children aged 0-71 months were randomly selected from seven districts and counties in Tibet from September to November 2020 by stratified PPS method and cluster sampling method for questionnaire survey and physical examination. Multivariate Logistic model was used to analyze the effect of stunting on psychological and behavioral development.@*Results@#The detection rate of psychological and behavioral development deviation of Tibetan children aged 0-5 years in Tibet was 24.68%, among which the detection rates of development deviation in language, gross motor skill, fine motor skill, and social emotional were 8.07%, 9.15%, 12.02% and 12.73%, respectively. After adjusting for potential mixed factors, the OR value (95% CI ) of the risk of psychological and behavioral development deviation of stunted children was 1.34(1.05-1.70). There was positive association with the three dimensions of language, fine motor skill, and social [ OR value (95% CI ) was 1.44(1.01-2.05 ), 1.50(1.06-2.12) and 1.54(1.14-2.07)], respectively. Subgroup analysis showed significant differences in age (0-35 months old: OR =1.16, 95% CI =0.88-1.53; 36-71 months old: OR =2.28, 95% CI =1.44-3.62) and gender (boys: OR =1.69, 95% CI =1.23-2.32; girls: OR =0.98, 95% CI =0.67-1.42) in the association between stunting and psychological and behavioral development.@*Conclusion@#The detection rate of psychological and behavioral development deviation of 0-5 year old Tibetan children is high. Stunting is associated with the risk of psychological and behavioral development. Early screening and comprehensive intervention of children s nutritional and neurodevelopmental should be carried out, especially among older age boys.

Analysis of Varieties and Characteristics of Plant Tibetan Medicine in The Stainless Crystal Minrror：A Tibetan Materia Medica / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Tibetan medicine is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine with a long history，complete theories and rich contents. As the core of the sustainable development of Tibetan medicine，the reserve of Tibetan medicine is an important strategic resource of the country. The Stainless Crystal Minrror：A Tibetan Materia Medica is based on the classic book Crystal Pearl Materia Medica. Combined with modern Tibetan medicine，it has collected and introduced more than 1 430 Tibetan medicines and equipped with more than 1 200 colorful pictures of medicinal materials，which has important reference value for the research of Tibetan medicines and the establishment of quality standards. This paper starts from three perspectives of "data analysis-plant distribution-Tibetan medicine classification". Based on The Stainless Crystal Minrror：A Tibetan Materia Medica，the database of plant Tibetan medicine was constructed and analyzed statistically，and the correlation between regional distribution，medicinal parts，altitude and medicinal properties of plant Tibetan medicine was explored. The results showed that The Stainless Crystal Minrror：A Tibetan Materia Medica contained 711 plant medicines，involving 127 families and 368 genera. Angiosperms accounted for 94.1%，among which compositae had 34 genera and 74 species，occupying the first place. There are 10 medicinal parts of plant Tibetan medicine，of which 327 species （44.9%） use whole grass.The average altitude of Tibetan medicine is 3 500 m，among which 81.0% grow above 3 000 m.There is a relationship between altitude and medicinal parts and taste Classification of Tibetan medicines is usually based on the classification of the general drug name，Tibetan name，primitive and family. The analysis of plant medicine resource varieties in The Stainless Crystal Minrror：A Tibetan Materia Medica is beneficial to the effective utilization of Tibetan medicine plant resources.

Microhardness homogeneity of RBCs light-cured with a multiple-peak LED and surface characterization after wear

Abstract This in vitro study evaluated the effect of the beam homogeneity of a multiple-peak light-curing unit on the surface microhardness and the effect of toothbrushing wear on the microhardness, surface roughness, roughness profile, volume loss, and gloss retention of incremental and bulk-fill resin-based composites (RBCs). A LED light-curing unit (VALO) with four LEDs at the tip end (405, 445, 465A, and 465B nm emission peak) was used according to each manufacturer-recommended time to obtain disks (n=10) of six RBCs: Estelite Sigma Quick, Charisma Classic, Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, Filtek Z250, Filtek Supreme Ultra, and Filtek Bulk Fill. Microhardness values were obtained according to each LED positioning of the light-curing unit on the top surface of the RBCs and were analyzed before and after toothbrushing regarding microhardness, surface roughness, roughness profile, volume loss, and gloss retention. Microhardness was considered homogeneous on the top surface regardless of the type of RBC or wavelength tested (p>0.05). Overall, toothbrushing did not reduce the microhardness of the RBCs but influenced the gloss values for most RBCs (p<0.001). Charisma Classic presented the greatest surface roughness and roughness profile after toothbrushing (p<0.05). Volume loss did not differ among RBCs (p>0.05). In conclusion, different wavelengths of the LED did not affect the top surface microhardness, regardless of the RBCs tested; and bulk-fill composites presented similar surface changes (microhardness, surface roughness, roughness profile, volume loss, and gloss retention) when compared to conventional composites after toothbrushing.

Resumo Este estudo in vitro avaliou a homogeneidade do feixe de um fotopolimerizador de múltiplos picos na microdureza superficial e o efeito da escovação na microdureza, rugosidade superficial, perfil de rugosidade, perda de volume e retenção do brilho de compósitos a base de resina (RBCs) incrementais ou bulk-fill. Um fotopolimerizador LED (VALO) com quatro LEDs na ponteira (405, 445, 465A e 465B nm de pico de emissão) foi usado de acordo com o tempo recomendado por cada fabricante para obtenção de discos (n=10) de seis RBCs: Estelite Sigma Quick, Charisma Classic, Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, Filtek Z250, Filtek Supreme Ultra e Filtek Bulk Fill. Os valores de microdureza foram obtidos seguindo o posicionamento de cada LED na superfície superior das amostras e foram analisados antes e após a escovação quanto a microdureza, rugosidade superficial, perfil de rugosidade, perda de volume e retenção do brilho. A microdureza foi considerada homogênea no topo da superfície, independentemente do tipo de RBCs ou comprimento de onda testados (p>0.05). No geral, a escovação não reduziu a microdureza das RBCs, mas influenciou o brilho para a maioria das RBCs (p<0.001). Charisma Classic apresentou os maiores valores de rugosidade superficial e perfil de rugosidade após a escovação (p<0.05). A perda de volume não diferiu entre as RBCs (p>0.05). Em conclusão, os diferentes comprimentos de onda do LED não alteraram a microdureza do topo da superfície, independentemente das RBCs testadas; e as resinas bulk-fill apresentaram alterações superficiais similares (microdureza, rugosidade superficial, perfil de rugosidade, perda de volume e manutenção do brilho) quando comparadas às resinas convencionais após a escovação.

Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome with possible congenital Cytomegalovirus infection: A diagnostic dilemma

Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is an X-linked recessive disorder, characterized by thrombocytopenia, eczema and recurrent infections. We report a 4-month-old boy who presented with respiratory distress, petechiae, organomegaly and eczema. He was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit because of severe respiratory distress due to Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. As peripheral blood smear showed microthrombocytopenia, Sanger gene sequencing was performed, which confirmed the diagnosis of WAS. This rare combination of possible congenital CMV infection in the background of WAS, misled the initial diagnosis.

The potential application of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in vestibuloplasty / 대한악안면성형재건외과학회지

no abstracr available.

Application of perforator-based neurocutaneous flap in repair of soft tissue defects of lower extremity in plateau area / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of perforator-based neurocutaneous flaps in repairing soft tissue defects of lower extremity in plateau area.Methods:Forty-eight patients who received perforator-based neurocutaneous local flaps to repair soft tissue defects of lower extremity from August, 2017 to December, 2019 were entered a follow-up study. The patients were 17 to 65 years old, 29 males and 19 females. There were 23 flaps with sural neurocutaneous perforator, 15 with saphenous neurocutaneous perforators, and 10 with superficial peroneal neurocutaneous perforators. The size of soft tissue defects ranged from 4.0 cm×3.5 cm to 15.0 cm×12.0 cm. And the size of the flaps ranged from 6.0 cm×4.5 cm to 16.0 cm×13.0 cm. The donor sites of 17 cases were directly sutured, and the rest of 31 were repaired by skin graft. The regular follow-up was performed.Results:Of the 48 cases, 33 neurocutaneous flaps survived completely, 9 had necrosis around edge of the skin after surgery and healed after hyperbaric oxygen therapy and dressing change, and 6 had complete necrosis after surgery and healed after vacuum assisted drainage and skin grafting. In 6 to 12(average, 9.6) months of follow-up after surgery, the shape and texture of flaps were in good condition with the patient satisfaction rate on functional evaluation(joint motions, standing, walking) at 75.45%.Conclusion:Perforator-based neurocutaneous flap is an excellent choice for the repair of soft tissue defects of lower extremity in plateau area because of its reliable blood supply and minimal damage to donor site.

Spatio-Temporal history of H9N2 viruses in Iran and neighbor countries by Bayesian analysis and molecular characterization

Objective: To delineate the H9N2 influenza virus circulation within Iran and its neighboring countries, the potential source of the epidemic in these countries, and its date of origin. Methods: We obtained all hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) nucleotide sequences of influenza H9N2 available up to December 25, 2020 from Iran and its neighboring countries (i.e., Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iraq). We also performed a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo method to infer the evolutionary dynamic and the most recent common ancestor for the HA and NA sequences. Results: H9N2 epidemic may have started in Iran and Pakistan much earlier than the other investigated countries in the region, and an ongoing bidirectional dispersion of the virus between the investigated countries was also observed. The mean time of the most recent common ancestor of H9N2 viruses was 1988 for HA, and 1992 for NA. Conclusions: Strains from investigated countries rooted in Pakistan and Iran. Regular surveillance of H9N2 viruses, especially in the live bird markets, enhancing the biosecurity of poultry industry and screening newly arriving immigrants and tourists from neighboring countries at border should be considered to control spread of the virus. Furthermore, surveillance of viral molecular evolution should be initiated for effective prevention of epidemic and pandemic spreads.

Speech language characteristics and intervention approaches in lockedin syndrome post snake envenomation

The present case study illustrates hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy as a result of neuroparalytic snake envenomation in an 11 year old male patient. Detailed speech assessment was done which revealed diverged oral structures and language loss. The study aims to document speech and language characteristics as well as rehabilitation in terms of speech therapy. The study enlightens the role of speech language pathologist in assessment and intervention of locked in syndrome. Study shows the swapped roles of traditional therapy approaches and the importance of augmentative and alternative communication as compassion and a beneficial technique in an intricate incident like hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy as a result of neuroparalytic snake envenomation.

Comparison of antibacterial effects of orthodontic composites containing different nanoparticles on Streptococcus mutans at different times

ABSTRACT Introduction: Plaque accumulation can cause white spot lesions. Adding nanoparticles to composites can be effective in reducing the number and function of microorganisms. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial effects of orthodontic composites containing different nanoparticles on Streptococcus mutans at different times. Methods: Hydroxyapatite, titanium oxides, zinc oxide, copper oxide and silver oxide nanoparticles were prepared at 0.5% and 1% weight concentrations. Accordingly, ten study groups and one control group were obtained. Then, 26 composite discs were prepared from each group. Strain of Streptococcus mutans was cultured, and colonies of Streptococcus mutans were counted. Further bacterial culture was swapped onto enriched Mueller-Hinton agar. The composites were placed on the culture medium, and after incubation the diameter of growth inhibition was measured. To investigate the long-term effect of nanoparticles, the colonies were counted at days 3, 15 and 30. Results: The results showed that 1% copper oxide and 1% silver oxide significantly reduced the number of bacteria (p< 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the other groups and control group (p> 0.05). At day three, there was a significant difference between control group and 0.5% silver oxide, 1% silver oxide and 1% copper oxide groups (p< 0.05). However, colonies had grown in all groups at day 30 but showed no significant difference with control group (p> 0.05). Conclusion: Addition of 1% copper oxide and 1% silver oxide has short-term antibacterial effects, so the clinical use of these nanoparticles cannot be justified.

RESUMO Introdução: O acúmulo de placa bacteriana pode causar lesões de mancha branca. A adição de nanopartículas nas resinas ortodônticas pode ser eficaz para reduzir o número e a função dos microrganismos. Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar os efeitos antibacterianos contra o Streptococcus mutans, em diferentes intervalos de tempo, de resinas ortodônticas contendo diferentes tipos de nanopartículas. Métodos: Foram criados dez grupos experimentais e um grupo controle contendo nanopartículas de hidroxiapatita, óxido de titânio, óxido de zinco, óxido de cobre e óxido de prata em concentrações de 0,5% e 1%. Em seguida, foram preparados 26 discos de resina para cada grupo. Colônias de Streptococcus mutans foram cultivadas e contadas. Posteriormente, as culturas bacterianas foram colocadas em solução de ágar Mueller-Hinton. Os discos de resina foram colocados no meio de cultura e, depois da incubação, mediu-se o diâmetro de inibição do crescimento. Para avaliar os efeitos em longo prazo das nanopartículas, as colônias foram analisadas após 3, 15 e 30 dias. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram que o óxido de cobre a 1% e o óxido de prata a 1% reduziram significativamente o número de bactérias (p< 0,05), mas não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os outros grupos e o grupo controle (p> 0,05). Após 3 dias, houve uma diferença significativa entre o grupo controle e os grupos óxido de prata a 0,5%, óxido de prata a 1% e óxido de cobre a 1% (p< 0,05). Porém, após 30 dias, as colônias haviam crescido em todos os grupos, sem diferença com o grupo controle (p> 0,05). Conclusão: A adição de óxido de cobre a 1% e óxido de prata a 1% apresenta efeitos antibacterianos apenas no curto prazo; portanto, o uso clínico dessas nanopartículas não se justifica.

False-Positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis Detection: Ways to Prevent Cross- Contamination / 결핵및호흡기질환

The gold standard method for diagnosis of tuberculosis is the isolation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis through culture, but there is a probability of cross-contamination in simultaneous cultures of samples causing false-positives. This can result in delayed treatment of the underlying disease and drug side effects. In this paper, we reviewed studies on falsepositive cultures of M. tuberculosis . Rate of occurrence, effective factors, and extent of false-positives were analyzed. Ways to identify and reduce the false-positives and management of them are critical for all laboratories. In most cases, falsepositive is occurring in cases with only one positive culture but negative direct smear. The three most crucial factors in this regard are inappropriate technician function, contamination of reagents, and aerosol production. Thus, to reduce false-positives, good laboratory practice, as well as use of whole-genome sequencing or genotyping of all positive culture samples with a robust, extra pure method and rapid response, are essential for minimizing the rate of false-positives. Indeed, molecular approaches and epidemiological surveillance can provide a valuable tool besides culture to identify possible false positives.

Surveillance of death causes among residents in Shannan City of Tibet Autonomous Region in 2018 / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To explore the mortality and main causes of death of residents in Shannan City. Methods Death data in Shannan City in 2018 were collected. The data was encoded and classified according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). The 2010 standard population was used to standardize the mortality rate. Results In 2018, the mortality rate of residents in Shannan City was 359.53/100 000, and the standardized mortality rate was 421.446/100 000. The top 5 causes of death were cerebrovascular disease, heart disease, malignant tumor, respiratory disease and digestive system disease, accounting for 74.91% of the total deaths. Tuberculosis and hepatitis B were the main lethal infectious diseases, accounting for 90% of their total deaths. Conclusion Chronic non-communicable diseases were the main causes of death in Shannan City. Tuberculosis and hepatitis B among all infectious diseases are the focus of prevention. Targeted intervention measures should be taken to reduce the incidence of disease and death.

Analysis of surveillance results of iodine deficiency disorders in Tibet, 2018 / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To understand the iodine nutritional status of Tibet residents and provide a scientific basis for prevention and treatment of iodine deficiency disorders in Tibet.Methods:A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 67 counties (districts) of 7 cities of Tibet. Each county (district) was divided into 5 sampling areas according to its east, west, south, north and middle location, and 1 township (town) was selected from each sampling area. Four administrative villages were selected from each township (town), and 15 household's salt samples were sampled for salt iodine detection. Twenty pregnant women and 1 primary school were selected from each township (town). Forty non-boarding children aged 8-10 years (half male and half female) were selected from each primary school, urine samples were collected for urinary iodine detection. Thyroid volume was also measured in children aged 8 to 10 years in 3 cities.Results:In 2018, the median of salt iodine in Tibet was 25.33 mg/kg (22 136 samples). The coverage rate of iodized salt, the qualified rate of iodized salt and the consumption rate of qualified iodized salt were 97.75% (21 637/22 136), 87.00% (18 824/21 637) and 85.04% (18 824/22 136), respectively. The difference between 7 cities were statistically singnificant ( P < 0.01). Naqu City had the lowest levels [92.03% (2 923/3 176), 69.41% (2 029/2 923), 63.89% (2 029/3 176)]. The median of urinary iodine of 13 516 children aged 8-10 years was 187.0 μg/L. The urinary iodine of boys was 188.6 μg/L, girls was 185.6 μg/L. The median of urinary iodine of 2 920 pregnant women was 165.6 μg/L. The differences in urinary iodine of pregnant women in different pregnancy periods were statistically significant ( H=13.33, P < 0.01). The urinary iodine of pregnant women was the highest in early pregnancy (178.9 μg/L) and the lowest in late pregnancy (162.3 μg/L). The goiter rate of children aged 8-10 years was 1.01% (34/3 364). The goiter rate of children in different cities was different (χ 2=59.28, P < 0.01), and Changdu had the highest (4.25%, 17/400). Conclusions:In 2018, the consumption rate of qualified iodized salt among Tibet residents is relatively low, and the comprehensive prevention and control measures of iodine deficiency disorders need to be further strengthened. We should strengthen the monitoring of iodine nutrition level of pregnant women at different stages of pregnancy, strengthen health education and raise the awareness of prevention and treatment of iodine deficiency disorders among residents.