bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and Extent of Mental Health Issues in Contemporary Dance Students
Authors: van Winden D , van Rijn RM , Savelsbergh GJP , Oudejans RRD , Stubbe JH
Published: September 2020

AIMS: This study investigated the extent and characteristics of mental health issues in contemporary dance students, as clear insight into these health problems is lacking. METHODS: During one academic year, 134 dance and dance-teacher students were monitored on a monthly basis using
the Performing artist and Athlete Health Monitor (PAHM). RESULTS: In total, 130 students were included in the analyses, comprising 81 dance students and 49 dance-teacher students. The response rate of the monthly questionnaires was 79.7%. Overall, 96.9% of the students reported at least one
physical/mental health problem. The incidence proportion (IP) of all reported mental health issues for one academic year was 44.6% (n=58). Furthermore, 29.2% of the students reported a mental health issue as their most severe health problem, of whom 39.4% indicated a substantial mental health
issue (i.e., problems leading to moderate, severe, or complete reductions in training volume or performance). The monthly IP of mental health issues ranged from 2.9 to 8.9% and 0 to 5.3% for substantial mental health issues. The most reported types of mental health issues were general anxiety
(20.0%), stress due to external factors (18.3%), and constant tiredness (16.7%). Dance-teacher students of all study years and second-year students from both educational programs indicated significantly more mental health issues, while sex showed no significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: Contemporary
dance students are at risk of mental health issues. Dance schools should pay special attention to stress, anxiety, and (constant) tiredness of their students. More research is needed to gain insight into specific characteristics and risk factors of mental health issues in dance students.
Organic Acids for Stimulation Purposes: A Review
Authors: Alhamad Luai , Alrashed Ahmed , Al Munif Eiman , Miskimins Jennifer
Published: September 2020

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is the acid of choice for acidizing operations in most carbonate formations, and is the base acid that is commonly paired with hydrofluoric acid (HF) in most sandstone applications. However, high dissolving power, high corrosion rate, lack of penetration, and sludging tendency coupled with high temperature (HT) can make HCl a poor choice. Alternatively, weaker and less-corrosive chemicals, such as organic acids, can be used instead of HCl to avoid these issues. The objective of this paper is to provide an intensive review on recent advancements, technology, and problems associated with organic acids. The paper focuses on formic, acetic, citric, and lactic acids.

This review includes various laboratory evaluation tests and field cases that outline the use of organic acids for formation-damage removal and dissolution. Rotating-disk-apparatus (RDA) results were reviewed to determine the kinetics for acid dissolution of different minerals. Additional results were collected from solubility, corrosion, coreflooding, inductively coupled plasma, X-ray diffraction, and scanning-electron-microscope (SEM) diffraction tests.

Because of their retardation performance, organic acids have been used along with mineral acids, mainly a formic/HCl mixture, or as a standalone solution for HT applications. However, the main drawback of these acids is the solubility of reaction-product salts. This challenge has been a limiting factor of using citric acid with calcium-rich formations because of the low solubility of calcium citrate. However, the solubility of the salts associated with formic, acetic, and lactic acid can be increased when these acids are mixed with gluconic acid because of the ability of gluconate ion to chelate calcium-based precipitation. In terms of formation-failure response, organic acids are in lower risk of causing a failure compared with HCl, specifically at deep formation treatments. Organic acids have also been used in other applications. For instance, formic acid is used in HT operations as an intensifier to reduce the corrosion rate caused by HCl. Formic, acetic, and lactic acids can be used to dissolve drilling-mud filter cakes. Citric acid is commonly used as an iron-sequestering agent.

This paper shows organic acid advances, limitations, and applications in oil and gas operations, specifically in acidizing jobs. The paper differentiates and closes the gap between various organic acid applications along with providing researchers an intensive guide for present and future research.
Generation of functional heart organoids from mouse embryonic stem cells.
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Ishino Fumitoshi , Sutani Akito , Kaneko Rin
Published: September 2020

For the understanding of the spatiotemporal regulation of cardiogenesis, it is important to generate in vitro model of hearts. This protocol introduces how to generate heart organoids from mouse embryonic stem cell-derived embryoid bodies (EB) in the presence of the laminin-entactin (LN/ET) complex and fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4) by three consecutive steps, 1) the culture of ESCs, 2) in vitro differentiation of ESCs into EBs and 3) in vitro culture of EBs for the generation of heart organoids. The generated heart organoids possess structural and functional capacity similar to atrial and ventricular parts of in vivo embryonic heart. This simplified protocol also provides a promising research tool with a broad range of applications, including drug testing.
Homocysteine during the third trimester is a risk factor for preeclampsia: A prospective study
Authors: Chen Sha , Shen Hong , Zhao Xueya , Luo Jun , Cheng Weiwei
Published: September 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk factors for elevating homocysteine during pregnancy and the relative effects on preeclampsia, so as to further understand whether Hcy had predictive value for PE.Method: This is a prospective study that only covers pregnant women with singleton who received regular prenatal care from July to September 2018 exclusively at IPMCH (N=1142). Homocysteine, folic acid and vitamin B12 were tested in the 1st trimester (10-14 weeks), 2nd trimester (24-28 weeks), and 3rd trimester (30-34 weeks), respectively, and MTHFR genes (rs1801133, rs1801131, rs17367504) were detected. Therefore, the analysis of this case includes the variation in Hcy levels during pregnancy, risk factors for elevating homocysteine and the risk factors on preeclampsia.Results: (1) Homocysteine was lowest in the 1st trimester. (2) Homocysteine was negatively correlated with folic acid (r=-0.17, p<0.001) and vitamin B12 (r=-0.15, p<0.001) in the same trimester. (3) Both of heterozygous CT (p=0.025, 95% CI 0.018, 0.275) and homozygous TT (p<0.001, 95% CI 0.185, 0.501) in MTHFR rs1801133 might be risk factors that caused an increase in Hcy. G-spot mutations in MTHFR rs17367504 might be a risk factor that caused a decline in homocysteine. (4) Homocysteine in the 3rd trimester might be significantly correlated with increasing risk of preeclampsia (OR = 1.2, 95% CI 1.01,1.42), particularly early-onset preeclampsia (OR = 3.63, 95% CI 1.71,7.71) and severe preeclampsia (OR = 3.63, 95% CI 1.71,7.71).Conclusions: The variation in homocysteine level in the third trimester might be associated with preeclampsia, especially early-onset preeclampsia and severe preeclampsia, and MTHFR, folic acid and vitamin B12 might be the three critical factors responsible for the changing homocysteine levels during pregnancy.
Degenerative knee osteoarthritis animal model and changes in intraosseous pressure during pathological processes
Authors: Wang Shuo , Du Yu-ren , Ma Jian-xiong , Xue Yuan , Liu Wei , Huang Hong-chao , Zhang Lei , Ma Xin-long
Published: September 2020

Background

Degenerative knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common clinical disease which affecting patients' quality of life. However, there is currently no standard animal model for KOA research. The purpose of this study was to find a reasonable age range of animal model for the studying of KOA pathological process, and to investigate Intraosseous pressure (IOP) in the process during different degeneration stages of KOA.

Methods

Male Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs were selected and divided into groups of 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 months old by age, 10 in each group. All knees underwent imaging examination including X-ray, Micro CT and MRI. Observed the imaging findings with the use of Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) classification and knee osteoarthritis MRI scores. Measured the IOP of distal femur and proximal tibia in each group, and observed the differences of bilateral tibiofemoral articular cartilage in histological and immunohistochemistry, staining results were evaluated by using Mankin’s score. Using one-way ANOVA and T-test were used to compare the differences indicators between groups.

Results

With the increase of age, changes in X-ray, Micro-CT and MRI imaging findings and pathological staining results of articular cartilage in all stages were consistent with the changing of degenerative KOA process. The IOP of distal femur and proximal tibia increased gradually with age, and reached its peak in 12-month age group, and then gradually decreased, there was a statistically significant difference of IOP between each group (femur side: F=8.261, P=0.000; tibial side: F=8.469, P=0.000). The IOP of the distal femur was slightly higher than that of proximal tibia, but the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05).

Conclusions

Dunkin-Hartley guinea pig can be used as an animal model to study different pathological stages of KOA. And there might be a correlation between the changes of IOP and the pathological progress of articular cartilage and subchondral bone in distal femur and proximal tibia.
Detection of a novel PAX6 mutation in a Chinese family with multiple ocular abnormalities
Authors: Ouyang Junyi , Cai Ziyan , Guo Yinjie , Nie Fen , Cao Mengdan , Duan Xuanchu
Published: September 2020

Background: Aniridia is a congenital,panocular disease affecting the cornea,anterior chamber angle,iris,lens,retina and optic nerve.PAX6 loss-of-function mutations were the most common cause of aniridia.Mutations throughout the PAX6 gene have been linked to a range of ophthalmic abnormalities,with distinct mutations at a given site within this gene leading to distinct phenotypic findings.This study aimed to characterize genetic mutations associated with congenital aniridia in a Chinese family.Methods:The proband and the proband’s brother of this family underwent comprehensive ophthalmologic examinations as well as exome sequencing,with Next Generation Sequencing being used to confirm these results.Results: A novel mutation(c.114_119delinsAATTTCC:p.Pro39fs)in the PAX6 gene was identified in subjects III-2 and III-3 in these family,and both of these subjects exhibited completeaniridia,cataracts,glaucoma,high myopia,and foveal hypoplasia.Conclusions: We identified a novel PAX6 frameshift heterozygous deletion mutation in a Chinese family and determined that this mutation was a probable cause of various eye abnormalities in carriers.
An open label study of the safety and efficacy of a single dose of weekly chloroquine and azithromycin administered for malaria prophylaxis in healthy adults challenged with 7G8 chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum in a controlled human malaria infection model
Authors: Livezey Jeffrey , Twomey Patrick , Morrison Meshell , Cicatelli Susan , Duncan Elizabeth H , Hamer Melinda , Lee Christine , Hutter Jack , Mills Kristen , DeLuca Jesse , Poon Lucas , Selig Daniel , Vuong Chau , Sousa Jason , Oliver Thomas , Bennett Jason , Moon James E , Sikaffy April , Sedegah Martha , Tosh Donna ,   Mara Kreishman-Deitrick2, Waterman Paige
Published: September 2020

BackgroundMalaria remains the top infectious disease threat facing the U.S. military in many forward operating environments. Compliance with malaria chemoprophylaxis remains a critical component in preventing malaria in the deployed Service Member. Studies of previous military operations show that compliance is consistently higher with weekly versus daily dosing regimens. Current FDA approved weekly chemoprophylaxis options have contraindications that can limit prescribing. The combination of chloroquine (CQ) with azithromycin (AZ) has previously been shown to be an efficacious treatment option for malaria, has pharmacokinetics compatible with weekly dosing, and has shown synergy when combined in vitro. MethodsIn this open label study 18 healthy volunteers, aged 18-50 years (inclusive), were randomly assigned to receive either 300 mg CQ or 300 mg CQ and 2 gm azithromycin (CQAZ) of directly observed therapy, weekly for 3 weeks prior to undergoing mosquito bite challenge with chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum. Volunteers that remained asymptomatic and had no evidence of parasitaemia continued to receive weekly post-exposure chemoprophylaxis for 3 weeks following malaria challenge. The primary endpoint was the number of volunteers that remained asymptomatic and had no evidence of parasitaemia 28 days after the malaria challenge.ResultsAll 6 (100%) volunteers randomized to the CQ control group became symptomatic with parasitaemia during the 28-day post-challenge period. Only 1/12 (8.3%) of volunteers in the CQAZ group developed symptoms and parasitaemia during the 28-day post-challenge period. However, after chemoprophylaxis was discontinued an additional 6 volunteers developed parasitaemia between days 28-41 after challenge, with 4 of 6 experiencing symptoms. 80% of subjects in the CQAZ group experienced treatment related gastrointestinal adverse events (including 13 % that experienced severe nausea) compared to 38% in the CQ group. A comparison of the pharmacokinetics in the CQAZ group demonstrated higher azithromycin Cmax (p0.03) and AUC (p0.044) levels in those volunteers who never became parasitaemic compared to those who did. ConclusionGiven the high rate of side effects and poor efficacy when administered for 3 weeks before and after challenge, the combination of weekly chloroquine and azithromycin is a suboptimal regimen combination for weekly malaria chemoprophylaxis.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03278808
Evaluation of Dorema Ammoniacum and Acupuncture's Therapeutic Effects in Patients With Ischemic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial 
Authors: Mehrpour Mahsa , Yousefi Mahdi , AfzalAghaee Monavar , Rakhshandeh Hasan , Azizi Hoda , Hadianfar Ali , Mehrpour Omid , Ghandehari Kavian , Bahrami-Taghanaki Hamidreza
Published: September 2020

Aim: Stroke is the third prevalent cause of disability worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the role of Dorema ammoniacum and acupuncture in the management of patients with stroke.Methods: In this randomized controlled clinical trial, patients with a recent ischemic stroke (within the first month of stroke) were investigated. The patients were divided into three groups. The first group was managed by acupuncture, while the second group received 1 g of Dorema ammoniacum (two 500 mg capsules per day) from ammoniacum gum. The two intervention groups also received standard treatment with routine medical therapy and physiotherapy. The final group was the control, which only received conventional treatment and physiotherapy. The patients were evaluated immediately before the interventions, and one month after the interventions, using the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Modified National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (mNIHSS).Results: There was a significant difference in the mean score of mNIHSS at the beginning and end of the study in all of the three studied groups (P<0.001). There were significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences between the groups (P<0.001). After controlling for the effect of mNIHSS score at the beginning of the study and the follow-up visit, a significant difference was observed between the three groups regarding the mean mNIHSS score post-intervention (P<0.001). The results of the post-hoc test indicated a significant difference between the acupuncture and control groups, Dorema ammoniacum and control groups (P<0.001), acupuncture, and Dorema ammoniacum groups (P<0.001); the extent of reduction was greater in the acupuncture group. The mean mNIHSS scores of the acupuncture and Dorema ammoniacum groups were 1.82 and 1.04 lower than the control group's mean score, respectively. There was a significant difference in the mean mRS score at the beginning and end of the study in all three groups (P<0.001). However, the extent of reduction was greater in the acupuncture group.Conclusion: Acupuncture and Dorema ammoniacum may be beneficial if started within the first month of stroke incidence. However, acupuncture can cause a greater reduction in the mNIHSS score of stroke patients. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20170227032797N2).Registered 5 March 2018 - Retrospectively registered, https://www.irct.ir/trial/25469
Effect of virtual reality on cognitive impairment and clinical symptoms among patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage ： a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Shangda , Sun Bin , Wei Ning , Shen Zhe , Jin Kangyu , Zhao Haoyang , Chen Yaping , Huang manli , Xu Yi
Published: September 2020

Background: This is an intervention study which explores the effect of using virtual reality supermarket training system (VRSTS) to improve cognitive function deficiency and clinical symptoms in Han Chinese patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage. Methods: 68 patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage were recruited for the interventional study and were randomly allocated to either virtual reality training (VRT) group or treatment-as-usual (TAU) group. For VRT group, patients received training with VRSTS for two weeks and antipsychotic treatment as usual while TAU group only received antipsychotic treatment as usual. Cognitive function and clinical symptoms before and after intervention were assessed by MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Personal and Social Performance Scale (PSP). Results: Results showed (1) VRSTS could improve MCCB composite scores and 4 out of 7 cognitive domains: speed of processing, working memory, visual learning, reasoning and problem solving, and (2) VRSTS could alleviate general psychopathology symptoms of PANSS but did not exert effects on positive and negative symptoms among patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage Conclusion: A therapeutic effect of VRSTS was observed in patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage. It may improve cognitive impairment and general psychopathology symptoms.
Post-stroke Depression in the Very Elderly Rate and Predictive Factors
Authors: Smadja Elias , Chausson Nicolas , Aghasaryan Manvel , Lainé Olga , Saddedine Sofiane , Smadja Léonard , Smadja Didier
Published: September 2020

Background: Post-stroke depression (PSD) affects 25–32% stroke survivors. PSD is quality-of-life altering and negatively impacts stroke recovery and mortality. Stroke incidence increases exponentially with age, especially >65 years, but no studies have yet specifically evaluated PSD in older stroke survivors. Because the very elderly are more prone to developing depression, we hypothesized a relatively high PSD rate for them. Methods: Consecutive stroke patients ≥75 years old, admitted to an acute stroke unit, were screened for depression with the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale or Aphasic Depression Rating Scale for aphasic patients, ≥15 days to 1-year post-stroke. Potential factors predictive of PSD were assessed. Results: Among 441 consecutive stroke patients, only 78 (17%) patients were evaluated because of high mortality and exclusion criteria. Among them, 44.8% (35/78) developed PSD: 22/78 (28.2%) mild and 11/78 (14.1%) moderate. Multivariate analysis retained only ≥1 mRS-point gain as being independently associated with PSD (OR, 6.2 (95% CI, 1.3–29.2), P=0.020). Conclusion: Our results confirmed the expected high PSD rate in patients ≥75 years, and suggest that PSD should be sought systematically or prophylactic antidepressants prescribed >15 days post-stroke for patients with ≥1 mRS-point gain.
Implementation of a Telemental Health Training Program Across a Mental Health Department
Authors: Felker Bradford L , McGinn Meghan M , Shearer Erika M , Raza Gina T , Gold Sari D , Kim Jean , Rojas Sasha M , Varkovitzky Ruth L , Morrison Kate L , McCann Russell A
Published: September 2020

Background Telemental Health (TMH) is an effective way to increase access to mental health services. For this reason, many health care systems strive to make TMH a part of routine mental health services. TMH use has increased substantially in recent years; however, health care systems have found it challenging to implement TMH ubiquitously. Minimal literature addresses system wide TMH implementation efforts. Because previous local training efforts failed in leading to meaningful uptake in TMH use, a quality improvement project guided by implementation science methodology was used to design and implement an innovative TMH training program across a large service line. Methods PARiHS criteria (i.e., Evidence, Context, Facilitation) was used as a framework to design, communicate, and implement a TMH training program aimed at providing task-specific training and culture change. The Evidence included incorporating established telehealth literature on TMH acceptance and efficacy. The Context included leadership support to prioritize training sites. RE-AIM guided the evaluation outcome measures used. The Facilitation was guided by Implementation/Facilitation techniques. A total of 100 interdisciplinary mental health providers from outpatient mental health clinics participated in this training over the course of two years. Results Overall, providers reported satisfaction with the training program, and found that it increased their TMH knowledge and competence. The number of providers using TMH and patients who received it nearly doubled in the two years after the launch of the TMH training compared to the two years preceding. Conclusions Implementation science methodology was important in creating an organizational framework to design, evaluate, and facilitate implementation of an innovative TMH training program. The program was well-received by staff and increased the number of providers and patients using TMH. Since this project was completed, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the demand for telehealth services. This training model offers specific strategies based upon implementation science that could be disseminated to and adopted by mental health programs looking to implement system wide TMH use.
Allometric equation for aboveground biomass estimation in moist Afromontane forest in Gesha and Sayilem district in Kaffa zone, southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Merti Admassu , Soromessa Teshome , Bareke Tura
Published: September 2020

Background: Allometric equations which are regressions linking the biomass to some independent variables are used to estimate tree components from the forest. The generic equation developed by many authors may not adequately reveal the tree biomass in a specific region in tropics including in Ethiopia. Therefore, the use of species specific allometric equations is important to achieve higher levels of accuracy because trees of different species may differ. The objective of the study was to develop species-specific allometric equations for Apodytes dimidiata, Ilex mitis, Sapium ellipticum and shrubs (Galiniera saxifraga and Vernonia auriculifera) using semi-destructive method for estimating the aboveground biomass (AGB). For purpose of sampling trees, individual species were categorized into trees whose Diameter at breast height (DBH) is ≥ 5 cm.Results: All the necessary biomass calculations were done, and biomass equations were developed for each species. The regression equations relate AGB with DBH, height (H), and density (ρ) were computed and the models were tested for accuracy based on observed data. The best model was selected based higher adj R2 and lower residual standard error and Akaike information criterion than rejected models. The relations for all selected models are significant (p<0.000), which showed strong correlation AGB with selected dendrometric variables. Accordingly, the AGB was strongly correlated with DBH and was not signiﬁcantly correlated with wood density and height individually in Ilex mitis. In combination, AGB was strongly correlated with DBH, height; DBH and wood density; are better for carbon assessment than general equations.Conclusions: The specific allometeric equation developed for the Gesha-Sayilem Afromontane Forest which can be used in similar moist forests in Ethiopia for the implementation of Reduced Emission from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) activities to benefit the local communities from carbon trade.
WITHDRAWN: Characteristics of Cuticular Wax and Analysis of Wax Biosynthesis Related Genes in Lanzhou Lily(Lilium Davidii Var. Unicolor) Under Drought Stress
Authors: Li Wenmei , Wang Yajun , Zhang Yubao , Guo Zhihong , Qiu Yang , Xie Zhongkui
Published: September 2020

Background: Plant wax is the general term of cuticle lipid components on the outer surface of plant tissue, which is closely related to drought resistance of plants. Lanzhou lily has the characteristics of wide adaptability, strong drought resistance, high ornamental and edible value. Plants were grown under three drought intensity treatments, namely, being watered at intervals of 5, 15, and 25 days. In this study, we analyzed the structure and component of cuticular wax of Lanzhou lily and Tresor under drought stress by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We employed RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) to investigate transcriptomic changes in the Lanzhou lily in response to drought stress.Results: In present study, the wax crystals of Lanzhou lily were mainly irregular flakes and filaments, while the wax crystals of Tresor lily were mainly granular. There were four kinds of compounds in the cuticle wax of Lanzhou lily and Tresor lily, which were acids, esters, alkanes and alcohols. Among them, the main components of Lanzhou lily were alkanes, and the content of acids in Tresor lily was more. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that KCS homologous gene TRINITY_ DN101578_ c0_ g3 and TRINITY _ DN98845_ c1_ g2 genes were clustered into one group, TRINITY_ DN95975_ c0_ g3 and dicotyledons were clustered into the same branch. In addition, transcriptome analysis of Lanzhou lily showed that the metabolic pathway of fatty acid elongation was significant under severe drought stress. KCS1, KCS3, KCS6 and KCS11 encoding fatty acid elongation were significantly expressed under moderate drought stress. The expression of MYB96 transcription factor was only significant under severe drought stress. Conclusions: The wax content and components of Lanzhou lily were more than those of Tresor lily. Drought stress increased the wax content of Lanzhou lily and enhanced its drought resistance. Our research has revealed some important significant expression genes not only improved the drought tolerance of Lanzhou lily, but also had high application value in the development of drought tolerant varieties.
Understanding risk factors in grade 3 breast cancer in NZ
Authors: Meharry Sharita , Ramsaroop Reena , Borotkanics Robert , Merien Fabrice
Published: September 2020

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand women, accounting for approximately 3000 new registrations per year, affecting one in nine women and resulting in more than 600 deaths annually. This study analysed data of patients selected with prognostic factor of Nottingham grade 3 tumours over a specified five- year period. These represent a heterogeneous group of cancers with variable survival rates.

Method

All women diagnosed with Nottingham grade 3 invasive breast cancer between 1 st January 2011 to 31 st December 2015, from four Breast Cancer Registries in New Zealand (Auckland, Waikato, Christchurch, and Wellington) were studied.

Results

Applying Fine-Gray analyses, the study of 2,493 women found that subjects in the older age group (>70 years) had a higher five-year mortality risk (SHR: 1.74 to 2.25, p: 0.053 to <0.001). Analysis of hormonal receptors showed that tumours with hormonal profile ER-positive, PR negative and ER-negative, PR negative subjects were at increased mortality risk (SHR: 3.56, p: <0.001) and (SHR: 2.67, p: <0.001) respectively. Molecular subtypes TNBC and Luminal B subjects were at increased risk of five-year mortality (SHR: 3.01 and 3.35 respectively, both p: <0.001). HER2 enriched subjects, were at elevated risk (SHR: 1.66, p: 0.11). Women identifying as NZ European ethnicity were at elevated risk of mortality overall (SHR: 1.70, p: 0.11), and they presented with the highest CIF across ethnicities. The NZ Europeans represented the largest proportion of HER2 enriched and TNBC subjects; however, Pacific Islanders experienced the highest HER2 CIF.

Conclusion

The survival rates for grade 3 breast cancer vary across the selected prognostic factors and ethnicity. Although grade 3 breast cancer is considered as high grade heterogeneous cancer, this study showed that not every patient has a poor outcome. NZ Europeans are worst affected followed by Pacific Islanders. Biology of the cancer and ethnicity needs to be looked at as a possible factor associated with this disease for survival differences. The results of this study make an initial contribution to the understanding of high-grade malignancy and other prognostic factors must be included in order to get a better understanding of survival differences.
Molecular detection of Staphylococcal enterotoxins and mecA genes products in food samples collected from different areas in Khartoum state
Authors: Yahya Mohammed , Ali Hashim Abdalbagi , Gorish Babbiker Mohammed Taher , Ali Sara Omer , Abdalrhim Eman Saif Aldein , Mergani Mawada Hamza , Elgadir Asmaa Abass Abd , Mohammed Somaya Khalid , Ahmed Salma Omer , Musa Naglaa Alsaeid , Ahmed Alaa Saeed , Abdalla Wafaa Mohammed , Hamedelnil Yousif Fadlallah , Hashim Ahmed Ibrahim , Altayeb Hisham N.
Published: September 2020

Background

Staphylococcal Food Poisoning is an intoxication that results from the consumption of improperly prepared or stored foods containing sufficient amounts of one or more preformed S. aureus enterotoxins. Now days many researchers worldwide noted an emerging of resistant strains Staphylococci especially for the antibiotic Methicillin. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the existence of Staphylococcus aureus and its enterotoxins, mecA genes in food samples.
Results

A total of 400 samples were collected from different areas in Khartoum state. The type of foods included Cheese, Meat products, Fish and Raw milk, 100 samples for each. out of 400 samples cultivated 137 (34.25%) isolates were identified as S. aureus, 126 (31.5%) were identified as bacteria other than S. aureus and 137 (34.25%) were yield no growth. Of 137 S.aureus isolates, 84 were randomly selected and examined for the presence mecA and enterotoxin genes products. Oxacillin sensitivity test showed that 15(11%) of 137 S.aureus isolates were Oxacillin resistant. The PCR assay showed that mecA gene was detected in 15 of 84 (17%) S. aureus isolates. While only 2 (2.385%) out of 84 S. aureus isolates were show an enterotoxin B gene product.
Conclusion

There was a relatively moderate prevalence of Methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus with very low frequency of enterotoxin B gene in different kinds of food samples which collected from Khartoum state. These findings highlight the high potential risk for consumers of meat and dairy products especially in the absence of strict hygienic and preventive measures to avoid Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxins production in foods.
circCOL6A3_030 is involved in the metastasis of gastric cancer by encoding polypeptide
Authors: Pan Wensheng , Geng Xiaoge , Wang Jingya , Zhang Chenjing , Zhou Xiaolu , Jing Jiyong
Published: September 2020

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is a serious digestive tract disease that threatens human life worldwide, and the prognosis of gastric cancer accompanied by distant lymph node or the distant metastasis organs is worse. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of circular RNA COL6A3_030 (circBase ID: hsa_circ_0006401; circRNADb ID: hsa_circ_28198; circBank ID: hsa_circCOL6A3_030) in GC metastasis.
Methods

qRT-PCR analysis using back-splicing primers and Sanger sequencing of PCR products were performed to identify circCOL6A3_030 in GC tissues and cell lines; RNA-FISH assay was performed to validate the subcellular localization of circCOL6A3_030. Transwell and wound-healing assays were carried out to evaluate the migration ability of GC cells. Western blot was conducted to detect the polypeptide encoded by circCOL6A3_030 in cells.
Results

circCOL6A3_030 was down-regulated in GC tissues and cell lines, while circCOL6A3_030 was up-regulated in GC with distant lymph node metastasis. The migration of circCOL6A3_030 silenced GC cells was significantly inhibited in both SGC-7901 and BGC-823 cell lines. Importantly, in vivo assay, silencing circCOL6A3_030 could reduce liver metastases from gastric cancer cells. Meanwhile, further studies suggested that circCOL6A3_030 encoded a small peptide that had a function as a tumor-promoting metastasis factor and immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of this polypeptide.
Conclusions

To sum up, our study showed that circCOL6A3_030 promoted GC cell migration by encoding a small peptide called circCOL6A3_030_198aa. Therefore, our results highlight the potential role of circCOL6A3_030 for clinical diagnosis and treatment of GC with distant lymph node metastasis.
Virtual Ward Round Teaching Pilot - A new education method.
Authors: Siow Mayven Tien Li , Robertson Alexander Myles , Begbey Austin
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND
Final year medical students at King’s College London undergo an 8-week module to enable transition to Foundation Year 1 (FY1). New graduates often cite ward rounds as a challenge and we undertook this pilot to enhance skills not formally incorporated into the curriculum. A teaching session simulating a ward round for final year medical students was piloted at Tunbridge Wells Hospital.
METHODS
Two-hour teaching sessions were facilitated by medical trainees on a one-to-one basis, where students would see several real patients under direct supervision and conduct a simulated ward round. Facilitators gave feedback on students’ consultation skills after the session.
RESULTS
Quantitative feedback from students was 97% positive overall, and comments showed that students felt the session increased their confidence. Facilitators agreed that the session was good way to help the transition to becoming a real doctor and found it beneficial to get teaching experience themselves.
CONCLUSION
Ward rounds are an integral part of daily life as a new doctor. However, previous studies have shown that final-year students lack ward round skills, and that this can be improved by simulation. This pilot shows that it is feasible and cost-effective to simulate a ward round involving real patients and thereby preparing students to step up when the time comes.
Does trans fatty acid affect low birth weight? A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mirmiran Parvin , Simbar Masoumeh , Mirabi Parvaneh , Asghari Golaleh , Alamolhoda Seideh Hanieh
Published: September 2020

Objective: To evaluate the effect of low trans fatty acids (TFAs) dietary pattern during pregnancy on risk of low birth weight (LBW).Methods: All pregnant women who received prenatal care with gestational age <8 weeks and aged ≤35 years were included in this randomized controlled trial study that took place in Tehran from December 2014 to August 2016. Women in the intervention group received individualized dietary pattern with TFAs content of < 1%; those in control group had dietary intake with no change on TFAs content. Dietary intakes were assessed by 3 non-consecutive 24-hour recalls at first prenatal care visit and at gestation age 13, 25 and 35 week. Hazard ratio was calculated using Cox proportional‐hazards models. Incidence and hazard ratio (95% CI) for low birth weight based on multivariable adjusted models were calculated.Result: Of the 800 women (n=407 in control and n=393 in intervention groups), 108 (13.5%) women were diagnosed with low birth weight. The incidence of LBW in intervention group was 12% and in control group was 19%. After multivariable adjustment for confounders, the hazard ratios for incident low birth weight in intervention group were 0.65 (0.44-0.96). Kaplan-Meier plot showed significant difference between two groups in incidence of LBW.Conclusion: Intake of low TFAs dietary pattern during pregnancy reduced risk of LBW.Trial registration The trial has been registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical. Registration number: IRCT2016092729902N3. Registered 8 November 2016, https://en.irct.ir/trial/23919
LncRNA CRNDE acts as a ceRNA and regulates AML cell proliferation and apoptosis via miR136-5p/MCM5 axis
Authors: Liu Chen , Zhong Liang , Shen Chenlan , Chu Xuan , Luo Xu , Yu Lihua , Ye Jiao , Xiong Ling , Dan Wenran , Li Jian , Liu Beizhong
Published: September 2020

Background

Increasing evidence demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) act as important factors in the regulation of cell processes and tumorigenesis. The long-noncoding RNA colorectal neoplasia differentially expressed (CRNDE) gene has been found to be related to several types of cancer. Although CRNDE is highly expressed in AML, its mechanism of action in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is unknown.

Methods

The expression levels of CRNDE and miR-136-5p mRNAs were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. The effects of CRNDE knockdown on cell proliferation was assessed by the CCK8 assay, while apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were analyzed by flow cytometry. The expression of proteins related to cell cycle, cell apoptosis and MCM5 were analyzed by Western blotting. The luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the interaction between CRNDE and miR-136-5p and between MCM5 and miR-136-5p in AML. The RNA immunoprecipitation assay was used to verify whether CRNDE exists in the miRNA mediated RISC complex.

Results

In this study, we used GEPIA database to confirm that CRNDE expression was significantly upregulated in AML samples. The silencing of CRNDE inhibited AML cells’ proliferation ability, increased AML cells’ apoptotic rate and arrested AML cells at the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Mechanistically, CRNDE served as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-136-5p and upregulated MCM5 expression by sponging miR-136-5p. In addition, rescue assays revealed that the effects of CRNDE knockdown could be reversed by miR-136-5p inhibitors in AML cells.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that the CRNDE-miR-136-5p-MCM5 axis modulates AML progression and provide a new regulatory network of CRNDE in AML.
The LUCID Study: Living With Ulcerative Colitis; Identifying the Socioeconomic Burden in Europe
Authors: Casas Leonardo Ruiz , Evans Jonathan , Rose Alison , Pedra Gabriel Ghizzi , Lobo Alan , Finnegan Alan , Hayee Bu , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Sturm Andreas , Burisch Johan , Terry Helen , Avedano Luisa , Tucknott Seb , Fiorino Gionata , Limdi Jimmy K
Published: September 2020

BackgroundUlcerative Colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease with increasing prevalence worldwide. Current treatment strategies place considerable economic and humanistic burdens on patients. The aim of this study was to determine the socioeconomic burden of UC in adult patients in European countries in a real-world setting.MethodsIn this retrospective, cross-sectional and observational pan-European study, patients with moderate or severe UC were assigned to ARM 1 and patients who had moderate or severe UC but achieved mild or remission status 12 months before index date (or clinical consultation date), were assigned to ARM 2. Clinical and medical resource use data were collected via electronic case report forms (eCRFs), and data on non-medical and indirect costs, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were collected via patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) questionnaires. Per-patient annual total costs per ARM and per country were calculated using the collated resource use in the last 12 months (between the start of the documentation period and patient consultation or index date) and country specific unit costs. Quality of life and was described by arm and by country. ResultsIn the physician-reported eCRF population (n=2,966), the mean annual direct medical cost was 4,065 in ARM 1 (n=1,835) and €2,935 in ARM 2 (n=1,131). In the PPIE population (ARM 1, n=1,001; ARM 2, n=647), mean annual direct cost was €4,526 in ARM 1 and €3,057 in ARM 2, mean annual direct non-medical cost was €1,162 in ARM 1 and €1,002 in ARM 2, mean annual indirect cost was €3,098 in ARM 1 and €2,309 ARM 2, and mean annual total cost was in €8,787 in ARM 1 and €6,368 in ARM 2. HRQoL scores showed moderate to high burden of UC in both groups.ConclusionsThe cost and HRQoL burden were high in patients in both ARM 1 and ARM 2 indicating unmet needs in the UC active population.
Effects of Microscopic Hydrodynamic Conditions and Exposure Time on the Biomass of Benthic Diatoms
Authors: Zhu Zaixiang , Li Hong , You Lihua , Wang Zhiguang , Wang Hongwei , Liu Qingyuan , Wang Hao , Li Yong
Published: September 2020

Background: Benthic algae are at the bottom of the nutrient chain in the river ecosystem and are the basic guarantee to maintain the health of the river ecosystem. Human activities lead to changes in the hydrology and hydrodynamics of many rivers, which affect the growth of benthic diatoms. However, there is a lack of relevant studies on the effects of hydrodynamic conditions and exposure time on the growth of benthic diatoms, so the protection of benthic diatoms and other bait resources is difficult to be realized. Methods: Based on this, a continuous field observation was carried out to study the growth situation of benthic diatom on pebbles under different flow patterns. The three-dimensional hydrodynamic numerical simulation was used to further analyze the flow field surrounding the pebble. And then, the effects of hydrodynamic conditions and exposure time on the biomass of benthic diatoms were studied. Result: The research results show that (1) the species composition and dominant species of benthic diatoms are different at different growth stages; (2) there is an appropriate velocity range for the growth of benthic diatoms, and too low and too high flow rates are not conducive to the growth of benthic diatoms; (3) the growth suitability at different parts on the pebble for benthic diatoms from high to low is the rear part of the pebble (without direct erosion), the side parts of the pebble, the upper part of the pebble and the front part of the pebble (direct erosion); (4) most benthic diatoms die if exposed to air for more than four hours. Conclusion: The effects of hydrodynamic conditions on the biomass of benthic diatoms are obvious on the microscopic scale. The research results in this paper are helpful to further understand the growth status of benthic diatoms in microscopic environment and provide reference and information for the restoration of the hydraulic habitat of benthic diatoms in the reach affected by human activities.
Associations of Education and Income With Secondhand Smoke Exposure Among Non-Smoking Pregnant Women in Japan: The Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study
Authors: Murakami Keiko , Obara Taku , Ishikuro Mami , Ueno Fumihiko , Noda Aoi , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: September 2020

Background: Associations of education and income with secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure have been well documented in the general population. However, evidence among non-smoking pregnant women is limited, including in Japan. The purpose of the study was to examine the associations of education and income with SHS exposure among non-smoking pregnant women in Japan.Methods: We analyzed data from 17815 non-smoking pregnant women in Japan who participated in the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study from 2013 to 2017. SHS exposure was defined as indoor exposure to someone else’s cigarette smoke ≥1 day/week during pregnancy. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine whether pregnant women’s educational attainment or equivalent household income was associated with SHS exposure, adjusting for age, work status, smoking history, partners’ education, and income/education. Stratified analyses by work status were also conducted.Results: The prevalence of SHS exposure during pregnancy was 34.0%; 29.4% among non-working women and 37.1% among working women. Lower educational attainment was associated with an increased risk of SHS exposure; the odds ratio of high school education or lower compared with university education or higher was 1.78 (95% confidence interval, 1.59–1.99). Lower equivalent household income was associated with an increased risk of SHS exposure; the odds ratio of the lowest compared with the highest level of income was 1.67 (95% confidence interval, 1.51–1.84). These associations did not differ between non-working women and working women.Conclusions: Pregnant women with lower education and/or lower household income had higher risks of SHS exposure in Japan. These findings imply that educational interventions and financial incentives are needed for pregnant women and their household smokers in helping to reduce SHS exposure among non-smoking pregnant women.
LncRNA MIR497HG suppresses bladder cancer progression through disrupting the crosstalk between Hippo/Yap and TGF-β/Smad signaling
Authors: Zhuang Changshui , Liu Ying , Yuan Chaobo , Fu Shengqiang , Yang Weifeng , Luo Jingwen , Zhuang Chengle
Published: September 2020

Objectives

A subclass of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), categorized as miRNA-host gene lncRNAs (lnc-miRHGs), is processed to produce miRNAs and involve in cancer progression. This work aimed to investigate the influence and the molecular mechanisms of lnc-miRHGs MIR497HG in bladder cancer (BCa).
Materials and methods

The miR-497 and miR-195 were derived from MIR497HG. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion assays were used to measure the function of MIR497HG, miR-497 and miR-195 in BCa. Bioinformatics, RT-qPCR, western blot, luciferase reporter assay, ChIP, and so on, were used to reveal the upstream and downstream mechanisms of MIR497HG in BCa.
Results

We identified that lnc-miRHG MIR497HG and two harbored miRNAs, miR-497 and miR-195, were downregulated in BCa by analyzing TCGA and our dataset. MIR497HG overexpression inhibited BCa cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. MiR-497/miR-195 inhibitor rescued significantly the inhibiton effects of overexpression of MIR497HG in BCa. Mechanistically, miR-497 and miR-195 coordinately suppressed multiple key components in Hippo/Yap and TGF-β signaling, and particularly attenuated the interaction between Yap and Smad3. In addition, E2F4 was proved to be critical for silencing MIR497HG transcription in BCa cells.
Conclusions

We propose for the first time that MIR497HG suppressed BCa progression and its upstream and downstream mechanisms. Blocking the pathological process may be a potential strategy for the treatment of BCa.