bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Implementation of The Diabetes Perioperative Passport: A Qualitative Focus Group Study
Authors: Akiboye Funke , Page Emma , Nirantharakumar Krish , Rayman Gerry , Lindenmeyer Antje
Published: July 2020

Aims To examine the factors affecting implementation of an empowerment tool for patients with diabetes in two surgical groups within a single district general hospitalBackground A perioperative passport was developed to improve care of people with diabetes undergoing elective surgery by equipping patients with a hand-held summary of their care needs. Two surgical groups were approached to be involved in developing and piloting this novel technology with contrasting results. Design A qualitative study using focus groups to examine factors affecting staff engagement in implementing the diabetes perioperative passport.Methods Two focus group were conducted in 2017 with pre-operative nurses in the departments of orthopaedics and general surgery of an NHS trust (N= 8). Audio-taped group discussions were transcribed, and the data coded and analysed to identify themes.Results The general surgical nurse group generally supported each other’s views and comments. They were enthused about the passport throughout. In contrast, the orthopaedic specialist nurse group had initial reservations about implementing the passport, but as the focus group unfolded, they moved from sharing individual views to finding commonalities and became more engaged and motivated to use the passport. Conclusion Focus groups are a practical and efficient tool to conduct within the usual working environment of an NHS hospital. In addition to capturing information about the challenges to implementation they may serve as a crucial implementation tool where evidence-based practice has not been adopted. Impact This is the first study carried out in the NHS setting highlighting the benefit of focus groups as a practical implementation tool.
Identifying Side Effects of Some Drugs Used in Covid-19 Treatment
Authors: Aygün Irfan , Kaya Mehmet , Alhajj Reda
Published: July 2020

To increase the success in Covid 19 treatment, many drug suggestions are presented, and some clinical studies are shared in the literature. There have been some attempts to use some of these drugs in combination. However, using more than one drug together may cause serious side effects on patients. Therefore, detecting drug-drug interactions of the drugs used will be of great importance in the treatment of Covid 19. In this study, the interactions of 8 drugs used for Covid 19 treatment with 645 different drugs and possible side effects estimates have been produced using Graph Convolutional Networks. Organ systems and diseases in which these 8 drugs cause the most negative effects have been identified. In addition, as it is known that some of these 8 drugs are used together in Covid-19 treatment, the side effects caused by using these drugs together are shared. With the experimental results obtained, it is aimed to facilitate the selection of the drugs and increase the success of Covid 19 treatment according to the targeted patient.
The scope and nature of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression change efforts: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Kinitz David J , Salway Travis , Dromer Elisabeth , Giustini Dean , Ashley Florence , Goodyear Trevor , Ferlatte Olivier , Kia Hannah , Abramovich Alex
Published: July 2020

Background: Sexual orientation and gender identity and expression change efforts (SOGIECE) are a set of scientifically discredited practices that aim to deny and suppress the sexual orientations, gender identities, and/or gender expressions of sexual and gender minorities (SGMs). SOGIECE are associated with significant adverse health and social outcomes. SOGIECE continue to be practiced around the world, despite denouncements from professional bodies and survivors, as well as calls for legislative advocacy to prohibit SOGIECE and protect SGMs. There are substantial gaps in the availability of consolidated international research to support and refine legislative proposals related to SOGIECE, including those currently underway to enforce bans in Canada and elsewhere.We therefore propose the first systematic review of international data on SOGIECE that will outline the scope and nature of these practices worldwide. Specifically, we aim to estimate how many SGMs have been exposed to SOGIECE, which sub-groups of SGMs experience higher rates of SOGIECE, and how estimates of SOGIECE vary over time and place. In addition, we aim to describe when, where, how, and under what circumstances SGMs are exposed to SOGIECE.Methods: To locate an interdisciplinary swath of papers, nine (9) bibliographic databases will be searched: Medline (OVID), Embase (OVID), PsycINFO and Social Work Abstracts via EBSCO, Web of Science Core Collection, LGBT Life with Fulltext, Proquest Dissertations & Theses Global and Sociology Collection (ProQuest). A gold standard search will be developed for Medline and adapted to the other databases. Grey literature will be searched at relevant websites, and reference harvesting will be performed in relevant SOGIECE scientific consensus statements. Two authors will independently screen abstracts/titles, screen full texts, abstract data, and apply risk of bias assessments. A narrative synthesis will be implemented to summarize findings.Discussion: This review will address the gap in synthesized data regarding the prevalence of SOGIECE, social correlates of SOGIECE, variations of SOGIECE over time and place, and the circumstances, settings, and time-points of SOGIECE exposure. Findings from this review will directly inform ongoing and new legislative efforts to ban SOGIECE and other interventions that aim to stem SOGIECE practices and support SOGIECE survivors. Systematic Review Registration: Prospective registration with PROSPERO will occur before completion of full-text screening.
The Influence of Fold Structure on Heat Accumulation in Hot Dry Rocks
Authors: Leng Wenxiang , Hu Ming , Wang Yingchun
Published: July 2020

Hot dry rock resources as one of the most promising clean energy in the future, with large reserves, renewable and other advantages, since the 1970 s, many countries all over the world have explored and practiced a lot on the exploration and development of hot dry rock resources, however, few studied the heterogeneity of the rock and the underground geologic structures of hot dry rock resources influence domain enrichment regularity of heat transfer mechanism. Therefore, this article considered the thermal conductivity of rock anisotropy, and set up a horizontal stratum and a fold strata 2D geological model, through numerical simulation with the field rock samples indoor triaxial rock thermal conductivity test results, introducing the thermal conductivity of rock anisotropy index A = K vertical bedding/ K parallel bedding and analyze the underground geologic structures’ influence on heat transfer in the rock. The results show that the anisotropy of rock thermal conductivity has no influence on the heat transfer process in underground rock strata when the rock layer is horizontal, which can be regarded as one-dimensional multilayer wall heat transfer. Fold structure will influence the underground heat transfer direction, so it is not simply seen as a one-dimensional multilayer flat wall heat transfer process in numerical simulation. At the inclined interface of rock strata, "heat flow refraction" usually occurs, which further affects the direction of heat transfer. As a result, heat is concentrated in the syncline of the fold structure in the deep and anticline in the middle and deep layers, while the temperature distribution in the shallow layer is almost unaffected by the structure. The research results of this paper are of great significance to the delineation of the target area and the development and utilization of the hot dry rock resources.
An online survey to evaluate the awareness and acceptance of geothermal energy among an educated segment of the population in five European and American countries
Authors: Balzan-Alzate Daniel , López-Sánchez Jacqueline , Blessent Daniela , Raymond Jasmin , Dezayes Chrystel , Portela Juan Pablo , Restrepo Estefania Ramírez , Rendón David Moreno , Malo Michel , Goderniaux Pascal , Daniele Linda , Borgne Tanguy Le
Published: July 2020

Advances in new technologies and ensuring a sustainable and safe energy supply, put communities in a key position to achieve the transition from conventional to renewable resources, such as geothermal energy. Perception and acceptance have a high impact on the feasibility of energy projects amongst different audiences, which is an important aspect to analyze. For this reason, this study focuses on evaluating the level of awareness and acceptance of geothermal energy within an educated segment of the population in five European and American countries (Canada, Colombia, Chile, Belgium and France) facing different stages of geothermal development. This study was conducted through an online survey, which was targeted to post-secondary students and professionals. Some of the most significant conclusions are: 1) there is a high degree of awareness of geothermal energy among the respondents in Chile and Canada, an average level in Belgium and France, and a low one in Colombia; 2) there is a favorable acceptance of a geothermal project in each country, even when hydraulic stimulation is considered; 3) environmental aspects and community safety are the most important issues that must be addressed to support a pilot geothermal project.
Siglec10 as an Immunosuppressive and Tumorgenesis Signature for Prediction of Survival Prognosis in Gliomas
Authors: Feng Yanyan , Zhang Yuxiang , Wang Ting , Feng Yuyin , Wang Hesong , Yuan Kai
Published: July 2020

BackgroundGlioma is a type of tumor occurring in central nervous system. Specific factors mutations and molecular abnormalities are used to conduct glioma classification and clinical decision in recent decade. Siglec10 is a member of sialic acid binding immunoglobulin superfamily. MethodsWe analyzed the siglec10 expression in glioma patients with immunohistochemical (IHC) staining method and evaluated the survival prognosis. Bioinformatic datasets including TCGA and CGGA were used to validate the IHC results. Functional enrichment analysis including GO, KEGG, and GSEA were conducted to study the related mechanism of siglec10, either. ResultsHigh siglec10 expression had shorter survival prognosis than low siglec10 expression in patients especially with malignant gliomas. Bioinformatic datasets including TCGA and CGGA validated the IHC results and discovered the expression of siglec10 was higher in malignant subtype than benign subtype of gliomas. So, siglec10 contributes to the poor prognosis of gliomas. Furthermore, the related mechanisms of siglec10 in gliomas were investigated by functional enrichment analysis including GSEA, GO, and KEGG analysis. Siglec10 was correlated with inflammatory mediators, inflammatory cells, and inflammatory pathways in gliomas. ConclusionsSiglec10 might take part in the immune response in tumor microenvironment to induce the progression and metastasis of glioma. This study showed siglec10 was a biomarker in glioma and it might be the potential target of glioma immunotherapy in the future.
Prognostic Role of Preoperative C-Reactive Protein in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma after Radical Nephroureterectomy - An Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: QIAN XIAOYUAN , QIAN CAN , ZHANG JIAQIAO , LU YUCHAO , WANG ZHIXIAN , WANG QING , XUN YANG , ZHOU PENG , YANG YUANYUAN , WANG SHAOGANG
Published: July 2020

Background: C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein that is mainly stimulated by the inflammation-associated cytokines and high concentrations of CRP have been detected in many tumors. Many studies have shown that there is a close correlation between CRP and the prognosis of upper urinary tract carcinoma (UTUC). However, the prognosis significance of CRP in UTUC is still controversial. Our study aims to perform an updated systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between CRP and the prognostic value for UTUC undergoing radical nephroureterectomy (RNU).Methods: A comprehensive electronic database search, using PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science, was performed to identify relevant research articles published before April 2020. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to extract data. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of all candidate studies. The pooled hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for recurrence-free survival (RFS), cancer-specific survival (CCS), and overall survival (OS) were calculated to evaluate the intensity of association. And heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed. Moreover, to ensure the stability of the analysis results, a sensitivity analysis was tested. All data were analyzed by Stata 15.0 and Review Manager 5.3.Results: Thirteen studies including a total of 2801 patients were eligible for meta-analysis. Our results verified that elevated CRP predicted poorer FRS (pooled HR=1.38, 95%CIs：1.12-1.71, P=0.003), CCS (pooled HR=1.64, 95%CI：1.38-1.94, P<0.001), OS (pooled HR=1.35, 95%CIs: 1.03-1.79 ,P=0.03) in patients with UTUC after RNU. Besides, elevated CRP was overtly correlated with tumor pathological stage (T3/T4 vs. ≤T2: OR=3.40, 95% CIs 2.39-4.84, P<0.001), tumor grade ((1/2 vs. 3: OR=1.68, 95% CIs 1.24-2.28, P<0.001), lymph node involvement (LNI) (+ vs. -: OR=2.73, 95% CIs 1.80-4.14, P<0.001), lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (+ vs. -: OR=4.1, 95% CIs 2.26-7.44, P<0.001). And these results got after using sensitivity analysis were verified to be stable and reliable. Furthermore, Begg's test result (RFS: P=0.089, CCS: P=0.592, and OS: P=0.089) showed no significant publication bias in the procedure.Conclusion: Elevated CRP indicates a poor prognosis for patients with UTUC undergoing RNU. Elevated CRP plays a significant role in reasonable risk stratification and individualized treatment.
WITHDRAWN: Zinc Supplementation in Preterm Neonates with Jaundice: Is It Beneficial?
Authors: Elfarargy Mohamed Shawky , Ashmawy Ghada Al , Abu-Risha Sally , Khattab Haidy
Published: July 2020

Background: Neonatal jaundice is a common neonatal disease which had adverse effect in the neonates especially preterm neonates when the level of indirect bilirubin is high enough to pass the blood brain barrier causing bilirubin encephalopathy or kernicterus. Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the value of zinc (Zn) supplementation in preterm neonates with jaundice and if it will be beneficial or not. Patients and methods: A prospective randomized clinical trial (RCT) study, identification number is TCTR20200504007, which was done at Tanta University Hospital (TUH) from July 2016 to March 2018 on 200 preterm neonates suffering from neonatal jaundice. The studied neonates were divided into 2 groups: group 1, which received Zn and phototherapy, and group 2, which received phototherapy only and did not take Zn. In the group 1, 100 preterm neonates with jaundice received Zn as 0.6 ml(cm3) of zinc origin/kg/day orally through oro/nasogastric tube divided into 2 doses (/12 hours) which is equal 1.2 mg elemental zinc/kg/day orally for 10 day. Results: There was no significant difference in serum bilirubin between the 2 groups in the 2nd, 4th and 6th day of admission while the serum bilirubin was significantly decreased in neonates who were treated by Zn and phototherapy in group 1, compared with neonates of group 2 who were treated with phototherapy only in the 8th , 9th and 10th day of admission where the p value was 0.045* ,0.027* and 0.004* respectively. Conclusion: Zn administration in jaundiced preterm neonates is beneficial in decreasing serum bilirubin. Recommendation: Zn supplementation for jaundiced preterm neonates.
Tinzaparin in Pregnancy, Cancer and Renal Impairment: A Systematic Review Focusing on Safety
Authors: Vathiotis Ioannis , Syrigos Nikolaos , Dimakakos Evangelos
Published: July 2020

Background: Low-molecular-weight heparins are approved for primary and secondary venous thromboembolism prevention. Tinzaparin (Innohep®) is the low-molecular-weight heparin with the highest average molecular weight. The purpose of this study is to provide an update regarding the safety profile of tinzaparin sodium, prescribed either as a prophylactic or as a therapeutic regimen for VTE, in pregnant women, cancer patients and individuals suffering from renal impairment. Methods: We identified clinical trials reporting safety outcomes for pregnant women, cancer patients and individuals with renal impairment receiving either prophylactic or therapeutic doses of tinzaparin. We extracted predefined, clinically relevant outcomes of patients on tinzaparin.Results: For pregnant women on tinzaparin bleeding rates ranged from 9.7% to 10.3%; reported rates of major bleeding events, allergic reactions and thrombocytopenia were low. No maternal deaths or neonatal hemorrhages were recorded. Prophylactic administration of tinzaparin also showed promising results in pregnant women with recurrent unexpected pregnancy loss. In patients with cancer bleeding rates fluctuated between 0.8% and 27%; there was a trend showing that patients on tinzaparin exhibited fewer bleeding events than those on vitamin K antagonists. Bioaccumulation of tinzaparin was not correlated with age, body weight or creatinine clearance. Therapeutic administration of tinzaparin did not produce significant increase in the rates of clinically relevant or major bleeding events in patients with renal impairment. Periodic administration of tinzaparin did not result in bioaccumulation and tinzaparin is safe and can be used without dose adjustment in patients with severe renal impairment and creatinine clearance < 20 ml/min.Conclusions: Tinzaparin represents a thoroughly studied and safe choice for special populations that are at increased risk for both thrombosis and bleeding. Tinzaparin is safe for pregnant women. Current literature supports the use of tinzaparin without dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment and creatinine clearance < 20ml/min.
The symbiotic capacity of rhizobium shapes root-associated microbiomes
Authors: Liu Yuanhui , Ma Bin , Chen Wenfeng , Schlaeppi Klaus , Erb Matthias , Stirling Erinne , Hu Lingfei , Wang Entao , Zhang Yunzeng , Zhao Kankan , Lu Zhijiang , Ye Shudi , Xu Jianming
Published: July 2020

Background: Root-microbiome interactions are of central importance for plant performance and yield. A distinctive feature of legumes in this context is that they engage in symbiosis with rhizobia, which are abundant in soils and include both symbiotic and non-symbiotic bacterial strains. If and how the capacity of rhizobia to form symbiosis modulates root-associated microbiomes are not well understood. Results: We address this question by inoculating soybean (Glycine max) plants with wild type (WT) or a noeI mutant of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens. The noeI mutant produces a defective Nod factor and is thus compromised in its ability to establish functional symbiosis. Compared to soybean plants inoculated with WT rhizobia, plants inoculated with the noeI mutant showed a significant decrease in nodulation and root-flavonoid exudation, and exhibited strong changes in microbiome assembly in the rhizosphere and the rhizoplane. NoeI mutant-inoculated roots exhibited reduced diversity, co-occurrence interactions and a substantial depletion of beneficial microbes on the roots. The effects of the noeI mutation were absent in soils without plants, demonstrating that they are plant dependent. Complementation experiments showed that flavonoid supplementation is sufficient to restore recruitment of beneficial microbes. Conclusion: The results illustrate that the capacity of a rhizobium to form microbial symbiosis dramatically alters root-associated microbiomes, most likely by changing root exudation patterns. The results of this study have important implications for our understanding of the evolution of plant-microbiome interactions in the context of plant-bacterial symbioses.
Identified a Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin Motifs 6 Serve as a Novel Gastric Cancer Prognostic Biomarker by Integrating Analysis of Gene Expression Profile
Authors: Zhu Ya-zhen , Liu Yi , Liao Xi-wen , Mo Xian-wei , Lin Yuan , Tang Wei-zhong , Luo Shan-shan
Published: July 2020

Objective: We aimed to explore the prognostic value of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) genes in gastric cancer (GC).Methods: The RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) expression data for 351 GC patients and other relevant clinical data was acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Survival analysis and a genome-wide gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed to define the underlying molecular value of the ADAMTS genes in GC development.Results: The Log rank test with both Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that ADAMTS6 expression profile correlated with the GC patients’ clinical outcome. Patients with a high expression of ADAMTS6 were associated with poor overall survival (OS). Comprehensive survival analysis of the ADAMTS genes suggests that ADAMTS6 might be an independent predictive factor for the OS in patients with GC. Besides, GSEA demonstrated that ADAMTS6 might be involved in multiple biological processes and pathways, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS), tumor protein P53, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), cadherin (CDH1) or tumor necrosis factor (TNF) pathways.Conclusions: In summary, our study demonstrated that ADAMTS6 gene could be used as a potential molecular marker for GC prognosis.
Prognostic value of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in gliomas: A Systematic Review
Authors: song yanlin , Zhang Jing , Liu Yu , Ma Xuelei
Published: July 2020

Background: Glioma is the most common primary brain tumor with poor prognosis. Some studies have learned the prognostic role of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in gliomas. But conflict conclusions were drawn by these studies. In order to reach an agreement, we systematically performed a meta-analysis.Method: A systematic literature research was conducted on the Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. The eligible articles which met the inclusion criteria were included in our study. The clinical outcomes of included patients were defined as progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The basic characteristics and relevant data were extracted. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled to evaluate the prognostic role of TILs in gliomas. Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of included studies.Results: Eight articles published from 2008 to 2019 were finally included in our study. And 25 studies were conducted in these articles. We assessed the prognostic role of TILs in gliomas by subgroup analysis according to the subtypes of TILs. The pooled HRs for OS revealed that high density of CD3+ and CD4+ TILs were related to the poor prognosis of gliomas (HR for CD3+ TILs=1.266; HR for CD4+ TILs= 2.128). The pooled HR for PFS indicated that only high density of FOXP3+ TILs were related to poor prognosis (HR=2.785; 95%CI=1.848, 4.197).Conclusion: High density of CD3+ and CD4+ TILs may be a potential candidate for predicting poor OS of gliomas while high density of FOXP3+ TILs may serve as a good biomarker for predicting poor PFS of gliomas.
Boron Sensitivity and Storage in Brassica Napus and Its Potential for Clubroot Management
Authors: Gossen Bruce D. , Wang Dongniu , McLean Andrew , Tu Jiangying , Lahlali Rachid , Karunakaran Chithra , Peng Gary , McDonald Mary Ruth
Published: July 2020

Clubroot [Plasmodiophora brassica] severity in canola (Brassica napus) can be suppressed by addition of boron (B), but excess B produces phytotoxicity. However, some lines of a closely related species, B. rapa, are relatively insensitive to high levels of B. Assessment of 150 accessions of B. napus and B. rapa treated with 0, 8 and 16 kg B ha-1 as disodium octaborate tetrahydrate (trade name Solubor) identified several lines that were relatively insensitive to high levels of B. In 2015, 88 lines were planted in a clubroot-infested plot in Ontario, Canada in a replicated split-plot design, where the subplot treatments were 8 kg ha-1 of B versus a non-treated control. Boron-insensitive lines generally had slightly lower clubroot severity than sensitive lines, even in the control with no added B. Application of B reduced clubroot slightly in the most sensitive lines, but produced a large and significant reduction in severity in the most insensitive lines. Assessment of five insensitive lines under controlled conditions supported the observation that application of B substantially reduced clubroot severity in insensitive lines. Comparison of two sensitive and two insensitive lines each of B. napus and B. rapa using Boron K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectra from a synchrotron-based soft-X-ray beamline showed that some insensitive lines were able to extract B efficiently from a soil that contained very low levels of B. The spectra of sensitive and insensitive lines differed when additional B was applied, which demonstrated that the insensitive lines stored B (and other elements such as S and P) differently than the sensitive lines. Differences in the amount and type of storage likely affect the susceptibility to clubroot, and merits further study.
5 Gleason score-associated gene signatures serve as novel biomarkers for identifying early recurring events and contributing to early diagnosis for Prostate Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Lingyu , Li Yu , Liu Weiwei , Wang Xuchu , Ping Ying , Wang Danhua , Cao Ying , Dai Yibei , Tao Zhihua
Published: July 2020

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) recurrence leads to much higher mortality than those without recurring events. Early and accurate laboratory diagnosis is particularly important for early identification of patients at high risk of recurrence and to benefit from additional systemic intervention. This study aimed to develop efficient and accurate Prostate Cancer diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for the identification of initial tumor new events. Methods: Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data portal were utilized to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and clinical trait information in PCa. WGCNA analysis obtained the most relevant clinical traits and genes enriched in several modules. Univariate Cox regression analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazards (Cox-PH) model was employed to candidate gene signatures related to Disease-Free Interval (DFI). Internal and external cohort was utilized to test and validate the validity, accuracy, and clinical utility of prognostic models.Results: We constructed and optimized a valid and credible model for predicting patient outcomes, based on 5 Gleason score-associated gene signatures (ZNF695, CENPA, TROAP, BIRC5, KIF20A). Furthermore, ROC and Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed higher diagnostic efficiency for PCa and predictive effectiveness in tumor recurrence and metastasis. Calibration curve also revealed high prediction accuracy in internal TCGA cohort and external GEO cohort. The model was prognostically significant in the stratified cohort, including TNM classification and Gleason score, and was deemed to be an independent PCa prognostic factor, and superioring to other clinicopathological characteristics. On the other hand, we also measured the correlation between gene signatures’ expression and inflammation landscape. 5 gene signatures were significantly positively correlated with tumor purity and negatively correlated with the immersion levels of CD8+ T cells. Conclusions: Our study identified and validated 5 gene signatures as biomarkers for prostate cancer diagnosis, providing an assessment of DFI while predicting tumor progression, possibly providing novel theories for the treatment of prostate cancer.
Deciphering the complex circulating immune cell microenvironment in chronic lymphocytic leukemia using patient similarity networks
Authors: Mikulkova Zuzana , Manukyan Gayane , Turcsanyi Peter , Urbanova Renata , Savara Jakub , Ochodkova Eliska , Kudelka Milos , Brychtova Yvona , Molinsky Jan , Simkovic Martin , Starostka David , Novak Jan , Janca Ondrej , Dihel Martin , Ryznerova Pavlina , Mohammad Lekaa , Papajik Tomas , Kriegová Eva
Published: July 2020

Background: The tissue microenvironment in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) plays a key role in promoting neoplastic cell survival, proliferation, and drug resistance. There is a lack of complex characterization of CLL blood microenvironment and its clinical impact. Methods: Immunophenotypic profiles of circulating immune cells in 244 CLL patients (untreated, n=123; novel agents, n=67; previous immunochemotherapy, n=54) and age/sex-matched healthy controls (n=52) were assessed using flow cytometry and analyzed by multivariate patient similarity networks (PSNs). Results: Our study revealed high inter-individual heterogeneity in distribution and activation status of bystander immune cells in CLL, depending on the bulk of CLL cells. High CLL counts were associated with low activation status on circulating monocytes, T and NK cells and vice versa low CLL counts with high activation of immune cells, reaching levels in controls. Regarding treatment, the highest activation of immune cells, particularly of intermediate and non-classical monocytes, was evident in patients treated with novel agents. Clustering and visualization using PSNs confirmed low activation of immune cells in progressive disease, irrespectively of IgHV status and Binet stage. Calculating time-to-event endpoint, patients with high intermediate monocytes (>5.4%), predominantly low activated, were associated with 2.5-fold higher likelihood (95% CI 1.421-4.403, P =0.002) of event than those with low percentage of intermediate monocytes. Conclusions: Activation of circulating immune cells are dependent on the CLL cell counts and used therapy, with the lowest activation in patients with progressive disease. Percentage and activation of intermediate monocytes could be of prognostic value in CLL.
The Role Of Client Feedback, Non-referral, And Facility Supervision On Client Satisfaction With Antiretroviral Services In Abuja, 2015
Authors: Egwuenu Abiodun , Suleman Idris H. , Balogun Muhammad. S. , Adewole Adefisoye , Abubakar Aisha , Gidado Saheed , Nguku Patrick
Published: July 2020

IntroductionIn many developing countries including Nigeria, the private sector has been identified as the main care provider for HIV infection. However technical weaknesses still exist, which have the potential to impact patient satisfaction negatively. Our aims were to describe the characteristics of private health facilities used by ART clients in FCT and determine which health system factors influenced client satisfaction.MethodsThree hundred and thirteen clients on antiretroviral therapy were selected randomly from 6 health facilities via multistage random sampling. Proportions, frequencies and means were used to summarize data. We examined the relationship between health system characteristics and client satisfaction with odds ratios and estimated the model for satisfaction via binary logistic regression, with p set at ≤ 0.05.ResultsA total of 259 (82.7%) respondents were satisfied with the services. A total of 299 (95.5%) respondents utilized secondary care private hospitals. Health system factors associated with client satisfaction were obtaining patient feedback [OR:5.5, 95%CI:1.3-23.3] and provision of ART services for at least 5 years [OR:3.3, 95%CI:1.8-6.1]. ART clinics with at least one adherence counsellor[OR:3.2, 95%CI:1.6-6.1] and liased with community-based ART health workers[OR:3.3, 95%CI:1.8-6.1] had higher odds of satisfying their clients. Referral of ART patients to other hospitals[OR:0.22, 95%CI:0.07-0.7] due to unavailability of some ART-specific services was associated with dissatisfaction.ConclusionMajority of the ART clients in private hospitals were satisfied. Collecting client feedback on ART services provided should be prioritized and the range of HIV treatment services provided in private hospitals be increased, to reduce patient referrals.
Comparison of genomic DNA extraction methods to obtain high DNA quality from barnyard grass (Echinochloa colona)
Authors: Salgotra Romesh Kumar , Chauhan Bhagirath Singh
Published: July 2020

Background: The study of weed genomics is important for the effective management of weeds to enhance crop yield. A rapid, inexpensive and high quality DNA extraction is needed for genomic and other molecular studies. Here, we describe the protocols for DNA extraction from two different parts of the Echinochloa colona plant using modified cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and a commercial kit.Results: In the study, it was observed that the DNA extracted from plant leaf tissues and dry seeds with a modified CTAB protocol was of good quality, with no contaminations of polysaccharides and essential oils. Quality of DNA extracted from dry seeds was comparable with that of plant leaves under both protocols. The extracted DNA from both plant parts was successfully amplified by PCR using the EPSPS microsatellite marker. Compared to the protocol of DNA extracted from leaf tissue, dry seeds will save time and other valuable resources. Moreover, the same protocols can be implemented for the extraction of high-quality DNA for molecular studies in other plant species where a large amount of polysaccharides, secondary metabolites and essential oils are present.Conclusions: Modified methods of DNA extraction from dry seeds are efficient and time-saving which can be used in genotypic and other molecular approaches. High-quality DNA can be isolated from plant leaf tissues using modified CTAB and commercial kits, however, DNA extracted from dry seeds will save time and other valuable resources.
Vitamin C protects porcine oocytes from microcystin-LR toxicity during maturation
Authors: Zhang Xue , Zhou Changyin , Li Weijian , Li Juan , Wu Wangjun , Tao Jingli , Liu Honglin
Published: July 2020

Background: Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR) is the most toxic cyanotoxin found in water bodies. Microcystins are produced as secondary products of cyanobacteria metabolism. They have a stable structure, and can bioaccumulate in living organisms. Humans and livestock who drink fresh water containing MC-LR can be poisoned. However, few studies have reported the effects of MC-LR exposure on livestock or human reproduction.Results: We used porcine oocytes as the model to explore the effects of MC-LR on oocyte maturation, and studied the impact of vitamin C (VC) administration on MC-LR‐induced meiosis defects. Exposure to MC-LR significantly restricted cumulus cell expansion and decreased first polar body extrusion. Further studies showed that MC-LR exposure led to meiosis arrest by disturbing cytoskeleton dynamics with MC-LR exposed oocytes displaying aberrant spindle organization, low levels of acetylate α‐tubulin, and disturbed actin polymerization. Additionally, MC-LR exposure impaired cytoplasmic maturation by disturbing mitochondria distribution. Moreover, MC-LR also produced abnormal epigenetic modifications, and induced high levels of oxidative stress and DNA damage. The administration of VC provided partial protection from all of the defects observed in oocytes exposed to MC-LR. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that MC-LR has a toxic effect on oocyte meiosis through the generation of excessive ROS levels and DNA damage. Supplementation of VC was able to protect against MC-LR-induced oocyte damage and represents a potential therapeutic strategy to improve the quality of MC-LR-exposed oocytes.
Epidemiologic characteristics of a Hungarian subpopulation of Huntington’s Disease patients
Authors: Despotov Katalin , Zádori Dénes , Veres Gábor , Jakab Katalin , Gárdián Gabreilla , Tóth Eszter , Kincses Tamás Zsigmond , Vecsei Laszlo , Ajtay Andras , Bereczki Dániel , Klivenyi Peter
Published: July 2020

Background: recent advances in the therapeutic options may prevent deterioration related to Huntington’s disease (HD) even at the presymptomatic stage. However, a well-characterized patient population is essential for screening and outcome monitoring as well. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of a Hungarian subpopulation of HD patients and mutation carriers diagnosed at the University of Szeged.Methods: we conducted a search for International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code G10H0 in the local medical database for the period between 1 January 1998 and 31 December 2018.Results: we identified 90 HD cases (male: 45, female: 45) and 34 asymptomatic carriers (male: 15, female: 19). The median age of onset was 45 years (range: 16-79). There were 3 cases of juvenile (3.3%), and 7 of late disease onset (7.8%). The median repeat length was 43 (range: 36-70) for the pathological and 19 for the non-pathological alleles (range: 9-35). 17.5% of the pathological alleles was in the decreased penetrance range, while 7% of non-pathological alleles was intermediate.Conclusions: the genetic and clinical features of the population examined in present study was in line with the previous Hungarian study as well as with international literature, the exceptions being the higher ratio of reduced penetrance and intermediate alleles.
Fecal markers in Multiple Sclerosis Sex makes the difference
Authors: Becker Anouck , Abuazab Mosab , Schwiertz Andreas , Walter Silke , Faßbender Klaus , Fousse Mathias , Unger Marcus M.
Published: July 2020

Background. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is primarily considered as a neuro-inflammatory CNS disease. Yet, experimental data suggest a role for gut microbiota and microbial products like short chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the pathogenesis of MS. Very recently a high-ranked publication reported beneficial effects of propionate, a SCFA, in MS patients. Based on experimental and preliminary human data, we hypothesized that not only the gut microbiota but also microbial products and fecal inflammatory markers might be altered in MS.Methods. In a pilot study, we investigated fecal markers (short chain fatty acids, calprotectin) as well as clinical markers in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) under different therapeutic regimes and compared the results to age-matched control subjects.Results. We observed a non-significant reduction in fecal SCFA in RRMS patients compared to control subjects. Fecal calprotectin concentrations did not differ significantly between MS patients and control subjects. We observed a significant reduction in fecal SCFA concentrations in women compared to men.Conclusions. We conclude that the observed sex-associated difference in fecal SCFA concentrations might be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of MS, especially when taking into account the female predominance in MS. We suggest investigating the role of SCFA in MS in a longitudinal study (starting in drug-naïve patients) in larger cohorts of MS patients with defined therapeutic regimes. Such a study would allow to distinguish between drug effects and disease-immanent effects and might help to identify a potentially modifiable sex-associated contributing factor in MS.Trial registration. Registered by the local Ethics Committee (Reg.Nr. 81/18, Ethikkommission der Aerztekammer des Saarlandes, Saarbruecken, Germany).
Uptake of routine vitamin A supplementation for children in Humbo district, Southern Ethiopia: Community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Kassa Getnet , Mesfin Addisalem , Gebremedin Samson
Published: July 2020

Background
In low- and middle-income countries routine vitamin A supplementation (VAS) is a key strategy for reducing vitamin A deficiency and mortality and morbidity of preschool children. However, in Ethiopia, there is paucity of evidence regarding the level and determinants of the uptake of the supplement. This study was designed to assess the coverage and predictors of VAS among preschool children in Humbo district, Southern Ethiopia.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2016. A total of 840 mothers/caregivers having children 6–59 months of age were selected using multistage cluster sampling technique from six rural villages implementing routine VAS program. Data were collected using interviewer administered questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of uptake of VAS. The outputs are presented using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with the respective 95% confidence interval (CI).
Results
The coverage of VAS was 75.0% (95% CI: 72.1–77.9). Better knowledge of mothers about the importance of the supplement (AOR: 1.49, 1.02–2.17), obtaining VAS related information from frontline community health workers (AOR: 1.51, 1.34–2.72) than health professionals and being from households in the “rich” wealth tertile (AOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.07–3.03) were positively associated with uptake VAS.
Conclusion
The VAS coverage of the area was approaching the expected national target of 80%. However, the uptake can be enhanced though awareness creation and improving socio-economic status of the community.
Triboelectric Touch Sensor for Position Mapping During Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Jeong Jae Bum , Kim Hyeok , YOO JUN-IL
Published: July 2020

Background: In this research, a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) was utilized to determine if a pressure-based sensor could detect bearing friction in a total hip arthroplasty (THA) and detect the contact of specific areas during ROM checks. Methods: In order to realize the flexible switch sensor, one of the elastomers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), was introduced from the solution. Then, copper tape, which is made of metal, was attached to the produced PDMS film to make an electrode and connection was made with a wire. Afterwards, the fabricated TENG sensors are measured with output voltages through an oscilloscope. Results: The pressure-based sensor shows capability to sense bearing friction. In more detail, the TENG embedded in four different sides of the trial exhibits up to 1 V from peak-to-peak. Moreover, these flexible touch sensors with TENG describes a peak signal in output voltage which should lead to extremely sensitive detection of bearing friction induced by the THA. Conclusions: The conclusion of this study is that the TENG pressure-based sensor was able to detect friction in the THA bearing and detect the contact area of ​​the bearing surface in the range of motion (ROM). Further research will be carried out to develop biocompatible sensors and to enable precise pressure-sensing.
A prospective study to assess the value of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in the management of paediatric poisoning at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Washaya Norbertta , Evans Alicia , Muloiwa Rudzani , Smith Peter , Buys Heloise
Published: July 2020

Introduction Paediatric poisoning is a common presentation to emergency departments worldwide. There is a paucity of data on the role of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), in the management of paediatric poisoning in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). In high-income countries, most studies are retrospective, and few include children.ObjectiveThe study describes the prevalence of LC-MS/MS diagnosed poisoning and the management of paediatric poisoning at Red Cross Children’s Hospital, South Africa.MethodsChildren admitted with suspected poisoning between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017, were recruited. All patients had a urine and/or blood sample sent for LC-MS/MS toxicology. Data collected included demographic data, clinical features, investigations, management, outcome and social interventions.Results152 children, with median age of 39 (IQR 25 -61) months were enrolled of whom 128 (84%) were poisoning cases. Of the 128 poisoning cases, 88 (69%) presented with a history of a known toxin, 16(12%) an unknown toxin and 24(19%) were cases of occult poisoning. LC-MS/MS was able to identify a toxin in 92% of the cases of occult poisoning. In those who had presented with a seemingly known toxin, LC-MS/MS found a different toxin in 15 cases. LC-MS/MS was also able to detect multiple drugs in 40 patients. Of the poisoning cases, 6% were attempted homicide cases and 5% attempted suicide cases. No children died. Individualized social interventions were instituted in poisoning cases. Emergency placement for safety reasons was required in 6 children.ConclusionLC-MS/MS is useful in identifying cases of occult poisoning; identifying patients who have ingested multiple toxins and/or an unknown substance and when targeted towards child protection. As LC-MS/MS is an expensive test, it should be used judiciously in LMICs.
Group assessment of residents’ clinical skills using Case-based Discussions is feasible, highly valued and moreover fosters learning
Authors: Johansen Rakel Fuglsang , Nielsen René Buch , Malling Bente , Storm Hanne
Published: July 2020

Background Assessment of residents’ clinical skills using Case-based Discussion traditionally involves a one-to-one discussion with a supervisor. This entails a subjective, and maybe unequal, assessment of the resident, which can only be overcome with the use of multiple assessors. The purpose of this study was to explore residents’ and assessors’ perception of a group-assessment concept.Methods Eleven to fifteen residents in a medical department met 4 times (every 3rd month) over 1 year for 5 hours each time. The residents took turns presenting clinical cases within a predefined topic and discussed it with peers and assessors (diagnosis, differential diagnosis, ethical considerations etc.). Four assessors (specialists in internal medicine) participated in the discussion and together assessed the residents` clinical skills. An external consultant observed the group-assessment several times and conducted semi-structured interviews with the residents as well as the assessors. Notes from the observations and transcribed interviews were analyzed using an inductive approach looking for participants’ perceptions of the concept.Results Both residents and assessors preferred the group-assessment to the individual assessment. Since there were several assessors, the group-assessments were more consistent and regarded more resource-efficient and manageable than one-to-one assessments. The level of discussion was perceived to be higher in the group discussions compared to one-to-one discussions. All residents gained new knowledge during their assessment and in addition, also reported having learned from listening to the assessment of their peers. Assessors reported gaining new knowledge as well.Conclusions Group-assessment through Case-based Discussions is a good way to structure assessment of residents` clinical skills. The quality of the assessment process seems to be increased and is likely to be more objective than individual assessment. Group-assessment is feasible and acceptable, and additionally fosters learning for all participating doctors in the department.