bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
National Comparisons: Optimal Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes among Japanese Patients
Authors: Kawaguchi Yoshindo
Published: February 2020

This paper describes the current status of chronic dialysis in Japan and the guidelines used to initiate dialysis (scoring system), and reports the outcome of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), focusing upon our center's experience. Fifty percent of CAPD technique survival was 6.9 ± 1.3 years among those patients classified as “positive selection.” The major causes of withdrawal from CAPD were ultrafiltration failure, the patients’ inability to continue on CAPD by themselves, and peritonitis.

The clinical issues that most concern nephrologists in CAPD management are prevention and management of ultrafiltration failure, prevention/therapeutic intervention in encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis, catheter-related infections, and prevention of underdialysis.
Should we perform the serum cryptococcal antigen test in people living with HIV hospitalized due to a community-acquired pneumonia episode?
Authors: Silva Adriana Paulino , Zenatti Carolina Toniolo , Figueiredo-Mello Claudia , Negra Marinella Della , Levin Anna S , Boulware David R , Vidal José Ernesto
Published: February 2020

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common cause of hospitalization among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH), particularly those with severe immunosuppression. Pulmonary disease due to cryptococcosis is uncommonly reported and likely under-diagnosed. There is scarce information about cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) prevalence in PLWH with CAP. The objectives of this study were to identify among PLWH who were hospitalized with CAP: (i) the prevalence of serum CrAg positivity, (ii) the proportion with asymptomatic vs. symptomatic cryptococcosis; and (iii) the prevalence of serum CrAg positivity in CD4+ T-cell count <100 cells/mm3. We performed a sub-analysis of a prospective cohort of hospitalized adults enrolled into a randomized clinical trial testing therapy for CAP. We included 202 participants who had serum CrAg testing performed. We found a 3.5% prevalence of serum CrAg-positivity overall, being higher (5.7%) in CD4+ T-cell count <100 cells/mm3. Overall, asymptomatic and symptomatic cryptococcosis were present in 2.0% and 1.5%, respectively. This study identifies a target population for CrAg testing: PLWH hospitalized with diagnosis of CAP, particularly those with CD4+ T-cell count <100 cells/mm3 where the number needed to test was 18 to detect 1 CrAg-positive person. This approach may facilitate the detection of asymptomatic cryptococcal infection and allow a timely diagnosis of symptomatic cryptococcal disease.
Efficacy of Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit Group Intervention for Parents of Children With Eczema: A Randomized, Wait-List Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Fung Yat-Lui , Leung Hiu-Tin , Chan Celia H. Y. , Lau Bobo H. P. , Chan Cecilia L. W.
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of a psychosocial intervention developed based on the Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit (IBMS) model that aimed to enhance the well-being of parents of children with eczema.

Methods:

Ninety-one families were randomly allocated to either the six-session intervention group ( n = 48) or the wait-list control group ( n = 43) and completed the randomized trial. For both groups, a range of psychosocial outcome measures were taken before the intervention (T0), postintervention (T1), and 6 weeks after the intervention (T2).

Results:

Relative to the control group, the intervention group was significantly improved over time in their levels of perceived stress, depression, and a number of holistic well-being measures, including nonattachment, afflictive ideation, and general vitality.

Discussion:

The results provided empirical support for an IBMS-informed psychosocial intervention in reducing stress and depression and enhancing well-being among parents of children with eczema.
The Concept of Family’s Harmony in Multiple Cultural Settings, What About the Family Harmony With Autism Children in Indonesia? A Literature Study
Authors: Fauziah Nailul
Published: February 2020

Purposes:

This literature review aims to systematically examine antecedents or factors that influence the outcomes of and to describe the dynamics of family harmony as a state. Therefore, the research questions behind this review are as follows: What factors are known to influence or predict the harmony of families with autistic children? What outcomes are known to be associated with family harmony? and What about the models of family harmony?

Method:

This study uses Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis for Protocols 2015 (PRISMA-P 2015) as a guideline. Search strategy in this study employs four electronic databases resources, namely Garuda Ristekdikti, ScienceDirect, ERIC, and psycINFO.

Results:

Among 15 articles which have been analyzed, there were 8 articles with quantitative study design and 1 article employing mixed-method study design. The rest of the six qualitative articles were correlation studies and four articles on family harmony models.

Applications/Originality/Value:

The conclusion from this research are the theories about family harmony (including determinants, influencing factors, aspects) are obtained through qualitative study with in depth interview and quantitative studyin families with different settings. Both studies, qualitative and quantitative study found yet about family harmony with autism children in Indonesia. Models of family harmony from qualitative study are obtained using in depth interview methods and from quantitative study are obtained by distributing questionaires to several families. These methods were approached by using the family role theory, interaction in family, and family relation theory. Research context and setting are dominant factors to determinate the models of family harmony.
The Predictive Value of d-Dimer Test for Venous Thromboembolism During Puerperium: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hu Wen , Wang Yali , Li Juan , Huang Jian , Pu Yuqun , Jiang Ying , Xu Dong , Ding Zhiming , Zhao Baihui , Luo Qiong
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the d-dimer for prediction of venous thromboembolism (VTE) events in puerperium and to identify other risk factors associated with the occurrence of VTE. This was a prospective observational cohort study, which included 16 127 women who gave birth after 28 weeks of gestation at Women’s Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, from January 2016 to December 2016. Data including basic maternal and fetal characteristics, pregnancy complications, and predictive biomarkers within postpartum 24 hours including d-dimer, platelet, and fibrinogen were collected for analyses. In the cohort study, 19 (0.12%) women were identified as VTE, including 1 pulmonary embolism event and 18 deep venous thrombosis events. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis suggested the best cutoff point for d-dimer level within postpartum 24 hours was 3.695 mg/L, with a specificity of 75.5% and a sensitivity of 73.7%, and there was no statistical correlation between fibrinogen and VTE, as well as between platelets and VTE. On multivariate analysis, age ≥35 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.895, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.079-7.773), scarred uterus (OR = 3.894, 95% CI: 1.234-12.282), intrauterine infection (OR = 7.214, 95% CI: 1.519-34.262), antiphospholipid syndrome (OR = 199.530, 95% CI: 15.152-2627.529), d-dimer ≥3.70 mg/L (OR = 7.573, 95% CI: 2.699-21.247), and emergency cesarean delivery (OR = 23.357, 95% CI: 2.819-193.508) were independently associated with VTE in puerperium. We concluded that d-dimer ≥3.70 mg/L was an independent predictor of VTE during puerperium and d-dimer testing was necessary for perinatal women.
The Incidence and Characteristics of Venous Thromboembolism in Neurocritical Care Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Zhang Ping , Bian Yi , Xu Feng , Lian Lifei , Zhu Suiqiang , Tang Zhouping , Wang Furong
Published: February 2020

Risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is presumed to be high for neurologic intensive care unit (NICU) patients. However, exact incidences of VTE have yet to be reported. In this prospective observational study, we consecutively enrolled 126 neurocritical care patients who had an NICU stay ≥1 week with paralysis and/or unconsciousness. All patients received DVT prevention strategies. Patients were screened for VTE after 1 week of hospitalization, using venous ultrasonography and computed tomography pulmonary angiography. Following 1 week of NICU hospitalization, DVT incidence was 35.7% and PE incidence was 17.5%. Of the DVTs, 75.6% were in the muscular calf vein. Of the PEs, 22.7% were in main pulmonary arteries, while 77.3% were in branches. Approximately 96% of the DVTs and 86% of the PEs were asymptomatic. Approximately 24% of patients with DVT had a concurrent PE, while 50% of PE patients had a DVT. Paralysis, raised d-dimer on admission, and pulmonary infection were found to be independent risk factors for DVT. Paraplegia, femoral vein thrombosis, and pulmonary infection were found to be independent risk factors for PE. Despite active preventive measures, incidences of VTE in NICU patients were high. Most VTEs were asymptomatic, meaning they could have led to a missed diagnosis. Attention should be paid to the VTE events of critically ill neurological patients.
Concussion in adolescence and the risk of multiple sclerosis: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Povolo Christopher A , Reid Jennifer N , Shariff Salimah Z , Welk Blayne , Morrow Sarah A
Published: February 2020

Background:

Physical trauma, specifically concussions sustained during adolescence, has been hypothesized to be a risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

To examine the association between adolescent concussions and future MS diagnosis.

Methods:

This retrospective study using linked administrative databases from Ontario, Canada, identified 97,965 adolescents (age 11–18 years) who sustained ⩾1 concussion and presented to an emergency department between 1992 and 2011. Cases were matched 1:3 with individuals who had not sustained a concussion based on age, sex, address, and index date. The primary outcome was MS diagnosis, using a validated MS diagnosis definition: ⩾1 hospitalization or ⩾5 physician billings within 2 years.

Results:

A concussion during adolescence was associated with a significantly increased risk of MS (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.29, p = 0.03). Sex-specific analysis revealed that only males who sustained a concussion in adolescence had a raised risk of MS (HR = 1.41, p = 0.04).

Conclusion:

This study supports an association between concussions in adolescence and future MS diagnoses, highlighting the potentially serious long-term effects of concussions.
The content and meaning of war experiences: A qualitative study of trauma and resilience among Liberian young refugees in Ghana
Authors: Nyarko Felix , Punamäki Raija-Leena
Published: February 2020

Abundant research has shown that traumatic war experiences can interfere with the mental health and wellbeing of children and adolescents, but less is known about the subjective experiences and views of war survivors. The present study identified and described the different types of war experiences of young refugees in an African context and analyzed how they perceived the meanings and impact of war on their lives. The participants were 13 Liberian 25–35-year-old male and female refugees living in Ghana who agreed to take part in semi-structured interviews based on the life history approach. The transcripts were analyzed using a phenomenological method to detect themes incorporating multiple subthemes. The results revealed five main themes about war experiences, all negative in nature: pain and humiliation, loss of close relationships, horrific scenes, threats to life, and fleeing for one’s life. Concerning the perceived meanings and impact of war, the results identified six main themes. Three of them were positive in nature: increased awareness of life, compassion for life, and identification with those suffering. The negative main themes incorporated vivid horrific memories, deprivation of age-appropriate opportunities, and self-harm and destructive behavior. Our findings suggest that young war survivors may be highly motivated to participate in nation- and peace-building and should be provided opportunities to contribute to broader political and civic life.
Heel Reconstruction With Bipedicled Flap: A Salvage Procedure
Authors: Uslu Alper Burak , Ünlü Ramazan Erkin
Published: February 2020

Reconstruction of the heel region poses great challenge to plastic surgeons not only due to calcaneal bone lying just deep to the subdermal fat pad but also due to easily exposed Achilles tendon. In order to achieve permanent closure of the heel defect, exposed bone or tendon—or both—should be covered with durable, preferably sensate, well-vascularized, thin skin flaps. Even though fasciocutaneous free flaps remain the gold standard in the reconstruction of heel defects with exposed bone or tendon, a significant number of these patients are older individuals with multiple comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and peripheral vascular disease. In this study, with a clinic series consisting of 6 patients (1 female, 5 males), we present a new technique of reconstruction with a bipedicled flap as a safe, reliable, and efficient reconstructive modality in the treatment of heel defects in cases where free flaps and other more sophisticated reconstructive options are either not feasible or have failed. Achieving complete reconstruction of defects in all 6 patients, this technique proves to be successful as a salvage procedure in reconstruction of heel defects.
Cardiovascular outcomes with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pulipati Vishnu Priya , Ravi Venkatesh , Pulipati Priyanjali
Published: February 2020

Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1RAs) are relatively newer anti-hyperglycemic agents, which have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Design

We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the cardiovascular outcomes of GLP1RAs compared to placebo in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. We performed an additional subgroup analysis to evaluate the role of GLP1RAs in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Methods

MEDLINE, Cochrane and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched from inception to 15 July 2019. The authors extracted relevant information from articles and independently assessed the study quality.

Results

Compared to placebo, GLP1RAs demonstrated a significant reduction in all-cause mortality (odds ratio (OR) 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82–0.95; P < 0.001), cardiovascular mortality (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.81–0.96; P = 0.004), primary composite endpoint (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.80–0.91; P < 0.001) and non-fatal stroke (OR 0.86, 95% 0.77–0.95; P = 0.004). There was no statistical difference in non-fatal myocardial infarction (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.83–1.01; P = 0.09). In subgroup analyses of patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and less than 30 ml/min/1.73 m2, there was no significant difference in the primary composite endpoint.

Conclusions

GLP1RAs demonstrated a significant reduction in all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, primary composite endpoint and non-fatal stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. There was no significant difference in the primary composite endpoint in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease.
Insomnia, Sleepiness, and Fatigue Among Polish Nurses
Authors: Zdanowicz Tomasz , Turowski Krzysztof , Celej-Szuster Jolanta , Lorencowicz Regina , Przychodzka Elżbieta
Published: February 2020

Background: Sleep disorders can result in sleepiness, fatigue, and apathy, and may contribute to serious occupational consequences such as errors at work. The aim of the study was to examine the level of insomnia, sleepiness, and fatigue in a sample of Polish nurses. Methods: The research was conducted among nurses employed in the Lublin region of Poland. A sample of nurses were invited to participate in a survey in which we measured insomnia, sleepiness, and fatigue using the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Findings: Among the 200 nurses that were surveyed, 141 (70.5%) responded. The findings indicated that a total of 47.8% of the surveyed nurses reported insomnia. Half (50.0%) exceeded the threshold for fatigue relative to the general population. Although no differences in fatigue and sleepiness were observed by level of insomnia between those who did and did not work night shift, we observed an overall correlation between insomnia (AIS) and sleepiness (ESS), as well as between insomnia (AIS) and fatigue (FSS). Conclusions/Application to practice: This sample of Polish nurses displayed problems with sleep quality. The consequences of insomnia and fatigue challenge occupational health workers to go beyond traditional care and standard diagnostic tests. Undertaking preventive measures aimed at reducing health hazards, and the risk of making a mistake at work due to increased sleepiness and fatigue, in nurses are warranted.
In‐Office Tympanostomy Tube Placement Using Iontophoresis and Automated Tube Delivery Systems
Authors: Yen David M. , Murray Michael T. , Puchalski Robert , Gould Andrew R. , Ansley John , Ow Randall A. , Moss Jonathan R. , England Laura J. , Syms Charles A.
Published: February 2020

Objectives

(1) To evaluate safety, tolerability, and technical success of lidocaine iontophoresis and a tympanostomy tube placement system for adults in an office setting and (2) to meet regulatory evidence requirements for new drugs and devices.

Study Design

Prospective, multicenter, single arm.

Setting

Patients were recruited in 8 community‐based practices in the United States between June and September 2017.

Subjects and Methods

This study evaluated tympanic membrane anesthesia and tube placement in 30 adults. Anesthesia was achieved via iontophoresis of a lidocaine/epinephrine solution. Tube placement was conducted using an integrated myringotomy and tube delivery system. Tolerability of tube placement was measured using a patient‐reported visual analog scale from 0 mm (no pain) to 100 mm (worst possible pain). Mean pain score was compared to a performance goal of 45 mm, where statistical superiority represents mild pain or less. Technical success and safety through 3 weeks postprocedure were evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐nine (29/30, 96.7%) patients had tube(s) successfully placed in all indicated ears. One patient demonstrated inadequate tympanic membrane anesthesia, and no tube placement was attempted. The mean (SD) pain score of 9.4 (15.7) mm was statistically superior to the performance goal. There were no serious adverse events. Seven nonserious events were related to device, procedure, or drug: inadequate anesthesia (1), vertigo (1), and dizziness (1) at the time of procedure and ear discomfort (1), tube occlusion (2), and medial tube migration (1) postprocedure.

Conclusion

Lidocaine iontophoresis provides acceptable tympanic membrane anesthesia for safe, tolerable, and successful in‐office tube placement using an integrated myringotomy and tube delivery system.
Weighty choices: selecting optimal G-CSF doses for stem cell mobilization to optimize yield
Authors: Farhadfar Nosha , Hsu Jack W. , Logan Brent R. , Sees Jennifer A. , Chitphakdithai Pintip , Sugrue Michele W. , Abdel-Azim Hisham , Anderlini Paolo N. , Bredeson Christopher , Chhabra Saurabh , Diaz Miguel Angel , Ganguly Siddhartha , Hematti Peiman , Kamble Rammurti T. , Kasow Kimberly A. , Lazarus Hillard M. , Lynch Debra Kelly , Murthy Hemant S. , Olsson Richard F. , Papari Mona , Przepiorka Donna , Savani Bipin N. , Schears Raquel , Seo Sachiko , Solh Melhem M. , Spitzer Thomas , Yared Jean A. , Pulsipher Michael A. , Shah Nirali N. , Switzer Galen E. , Confer Dennis L. , Shaw Bronwen E. , Wingard John R.
Published: February 2020

There are limited data on the effect of donor body mass index (BMI) on peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) mobilization response to granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), especially in unrelated donors. Obesity has been associated with persistent leukocytosis, elevated circulating progenitor cells, and enhanced stem cell mobilization. Therefore, we hypothesized that adequate collection of CD34+ cells may be achieved with lower doses (per kilogram of body weight) of G-CSF in donors with higher BMI compared with donors with lower BMI. Using the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research database, we evaluated the impact of donor BMI on G-CSF–mobilized PBSC yield in healthy unrelated donors. We examined 20 884 PBSC donations collected at National Marrow Donor Program centers between 2006 and 2016. We found significantly higher collection yields in obese and severely obese donors compared with normal and overweight donors. An increase in average daily G-CSF dose was associated with an increase in stem cell yield in donors with normal or overweight BMI. In contrast, an increase in average daily G-CSF dose beyond 780 μg per day in obese and 900 μg per day in severely obese donors did not increase cell yield. Pain and toxicities were assessed at baseline, during G-CSF administration, and postcollection. Obesity was associated with higher levels of self-reported donation-related pain and toxicities in the pericollection and early postdonation recovery periods. This study suggests a maximum effective G-CSF dose for PBSC mobilization in obese and severely obese donors, beyond which higher doses of G-CSF add no increased yield.
GNAS promotes inflammation-related hepatocellular carcinoma progression by promoting STAT3 activation
Authors: Ding Hongda , Zhang Xixia , Su Yang , Jia Changjun , Dai Chaoliu
Published: February 2020

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still the most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide and accumulating studies report that HCC is frequently linked to chronic inflammation. G-protein alpha-subunit (GNAS)-activating mutations have recently been reported to form a rare subgroup of inflammatory liver tumors. In this study, we investigated the roles of GNAS in inflammation-related HCC progression and its underlying mechanism.

Methods

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and diethylnitrosamine were employed to stimulate HCC cells to an induced inflammatory response. qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting were performed to detect the expression of GNAS in HCC tissues and cell lines. Expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines were detected by qRT-PCR and ELISA. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation of GNAS mRNA was detected by RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP). Transcription factors activation profiling plate array was performed to investigate the underlying mechanism in GNAS promoting interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression in HCC cells. HCC cell invasion was determined by transwell assay in vitro, and tumorigenesis was assessed with a subcutaneous xenograft mouse model of HCC.

Results

We found that LPS stimulation promotes GNAS expression in HCC cells through increasing m6A methylation of GNAS mRNA. The high expression level of GNAS promotes LPS-induced HCC cell growth and invasion by interacting with signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Furthermore, GNAS knockdown inhibits LPS induced-IL-6 expression in HCC cells by suppressing STAT3 activation. Moreover, we found that GNAS promotes LPS-induced STAT3 activation in HCC cells through inhibiting long non-coding RNA TPTEP1 interacting with STAT3. In addition, GNAS expression promotes HCC development in mice and is related to poor survival.

Conclusions

Our findings for the first time indicate a tumor-promoting role of GNAS in inflammation-related HCC progression and provide a novel potential target for HCC therapy.
Prediction of new associations between ncRNAs and diseases exploiting multi-type hierarchical clustering
Authors: Barracchia Emanuele Pio , Pio Gianvito , D’Elia Domenica , Ceci Michelangelo
Published: February 2020

Background

The study of functional associations between ncRNAs and human diseases is a pivotal task of modern research to develop new and more effective therapeutic approaches. Nevertheless, it is not a trivial task since it involves entities of different types, such as microRNAs, lncRNAs or target genes whose expression also depends on endogenous or exogenous factors. Such a complexity can be faced by representing the involved biological entities and their relationships as a network and by exploiting network-based computational approaches able to identify new associations. However, existing methods are limited to homogeneous networks (i.e., consisting of only one type of objects and relationships) or can exploit only a small subset of the features of biological entities, such as the presence of a particular binding domain, enzymatic properties or their involvement in specific diseases.

Results

To overcome the limitations of existing approaches, we propose the system LP-HCLUS, which exploits a multi-type hierarchical clustering method to predict possibly unknown ncRNA-disease relationships. In particular, LP-HCLUS analyzes heterogeneous networks consisting of several types of objects and relationships, each possibly described by a set of features, and extracts multi-type clusters that are subsequently exploited to predict new ncRNA-disease associations. The extracted clusters are overlapping, hierarchically organized, involve entities of different types, and allow LP-HCLUS to catch multiple roles of ncRNAs in diseases at different levels of granularity. Our experimental evaluation, performed on heterogeneous attributed networks consisting of microRNAs, lncRNAs, diseases, genes and their known relationships, shows that LP-HCLUS is able to obtain better results with respect to existing approaches. The biological relevance of the obtained results was evaluated according to both quantitative (i.e., TPR@k, Areas Under the TPR@k, ROC and Precision-Recall curves) and qualitative (i.e., according to the consultation of the existing literature) criteria.

Conclusions

The obtained results prove the utility of LP-HCLUS to conduct robust predictive studies on the biological role of ncRNAs in human diseases. The produced predictions can therefore be reliably considered as new, previously unknown, relationships among ncRNAs and diseases.
Combining feature selection and shape analysis uncovers precise rules for miRNA regulation in Huntington’s disease mice
Authors: Mégret Lucile , Nair Satish Sasidharan , Dancourt Julia , Aaronson Jeff , Rosinski Jim , Neri Christian
Published: February 2020

Background

MicroRNA (miRNA) regulation is associated with several diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. Several approaches can be used for modeling miRNA regulation. However, their precision may be limited for analyzing multidimensional data. Here, we addressed this question by integrating shape analysis and feature selection into miRAMINT, a methodology that we used for analyzing multidimensional RNA-seq and proteomic data from a knock-in mouse model (Hdh mice) of Huntington’s disease (HD), a disease caused by CAG repeat expansion in huntingtin (htt). This dataset covers 6 CAG repeat alleles and 3 age points in the striatum and cortex of Hdh mice.

Results

Remarkably, compared to previous analyzes of this multidimensional dataset, the miRAMINT approach retained only 31 explanatory striatal miRNA-mRNA pairs that are precisely associated with the shape of CAG repeat dependence over time, among which 5 pairs with a strong change of target expression levels. Several of these pairs were previously associated with neuronal homeostasis or HD pathogenesis, or both. Such miRNA-mRNA pairs were not detected in cortex.

Conclusions

These data suggest that miRNA regulation has a limited global role in HD while providing accurately-selected miRNA-target pairs to study how the brain may compute molecular responses to HD over time. These data also provide a methodological framework for researchers to explore how shape analysis can enhance multidimensional data analytics in biology and disease.
Comparative analysis of basic helix–loop–helix gene family among Brassica oleracea, Brassica rapa, and Brassica napus
Authors: Miao Liming , Gao Yingying , Zhao Kun , Kong Lijun , Yu Shubo , Li Rongrong , Liu Kaiwen , Yu Xiaolin
Published: February 2020

Background

The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) is the second largest gene family in the plant, some members play important roles in pistil development and response to drought, waterlogging, cold stress and salt stress. The bHLH gene family has been identified in many species, except forBrassica oleraceaandB. napusthus far.This study aims to identify the bHLH family members inB. oleracea,B. rapaandB. napus, and elucidate the expression, duplication, phylogeny and evolution characters of them.

Result

A total of 268 bHLH genes inB. oleracea, 440 genes inB. napus, and 251 genes inB. rapa, including 21 new bHLH members, have been identified.Subsequently, the analyses of the phylogenetic trees, conserved motifs and gene structures showed that the members in the same subfamily were highly conserved. MostKa/Ksvalues of homologous gene were < 1, which indicated that these genes suffered from strong purifying selection for retention. The retention rates ofBrabHLHandBolbHLHgenes were 51.6 and 55.1%, respectively. The comparative expression patterns betweenB. rapaandB. napusshowed that they had similar expression patterns in the root and contrasting patterns in the stems, leaves, and reproductive tissues. In addition, there were 41 and 30 differential expression bHLH genes under the treatments of ABA and JA, respectively, and the number of down regulation genes was significantly more than up regulation genes.

Conclusion

In the present study, we identified and performed the comparative genomics analysis of bHLH gene family amongB. oleracea,B. rapaandB. napus, and also investigated their diversity. The expression patterns betweenB. rapaandB. napusshows that they have the similar expression pattern in the root and opposite patterns in the stems, leaves, and reproduction tissues. Further analysis demonstrated that some bHLH gene members may play crucial roles under the abiotic and biotic stress conditions. This is the first to report on the bHLH gene family analysis inB. oleraceaandB. napus,which can offer useful information on the functional analysis of the bHLH gene in plants.
Whole genome sequencing and comparative genomic analysis of oleaginous red yeast Sporobolomyces pararoseus NGR identifies candidate genes for biotechnological potential and ballistospores-shooting
Authors: Li Chun-Ji , Zhao Die , Li Bing-Xue , Zhang Ning , Yan Jian-Yu , Zou Hong-Tao
Published: February 2020

Background

Sporobolomyces pararoseus is regarded as an oleaginous red yeast, which synthesizes numerous valuable compounds with wide industrial usages. This species hold biotechnological interests in biodiesel, food and cosmetics industries. Moreover, the ballistospores-shooting promotes the colonizing of S. pararoseus in most terrestrial and marine ecosystems. However, very little is known about the basic genomic features of S. pararoseus. To assess the biotechnological potential and ballistospores-shooting mechanism of S. pararoseus on genome-scale, the whole genome sequencing was performed by next-generation sequencing technology.

Results

Here, we used Illumina Hiseq platform to firstly assemble S. pararoseus genome into 20.9 Mb containing 54 scaffolds and 5963 predicted genes with a N50 length of 2,038,020 bp and GC content of 47.59%. Genome completeness (BUSCO alignment: 95.4%) and RNA-seq analysis (expressed genes: 98.68%) indicated the high-quality features of the current genome. Through the annotation information of the genome, we screened many key genes involved in carotenoids, lipids, carbohydrate metabolism and signal transduction pathways. A phylogenetic assessment suggested that the evolutionary trajectory of the order Sporidiobolales species was evolved from genus Sporobolomyces to Rhodotorula through the mediator Rhodosporidiobolus. Compared to the lacking ballistospores Rhodotorula toruloides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we found genes enriched for spore germination and sugar metabolism. These genes might be responsible for the ballistospores-shooting in S. pararoseus NGR.

Conclusion

These results greatly advance our understanding of S. pararoseus NGR in biotechnological potential and ballistospores-shooting, which help further research of genetic manipulation, metabolic engineering as well as its evolutionary direction.
Development and validation of algorithms to classify type 1 and 2 diabetes according to age at diagnosis using electronic health records
Authors: Ke Calvin , Stukel Thérèse A. , Luk Andrea , Shah Baiju R. , Jha Prabhat , Lau Eric , Ma Ronald C. W. , So Wing-Yee , Kong Alice P. , Chow Elaine , Chan Juliana C. N.
Published: February 2020

Background

Validated algorithms to classify type 1 and 2 diabetes (T1D, T2D) are mostly limited to white pediatric populations. We conducted a large study in Hong Kong among children and adults with diabetes to develop and validate algorithms using electronic health records (EHRs) to classify diabetes type against clinical assessment as the reference standard, and to evaluate performance by age at diagnosis.

Methods

We included all people with diabetes (age at diagnosis 1.5–100 years during 2002–15) in the Hong Kong Diabetes Register and randomized them to derivation and validation cohorts. We developed candidate algorithms to identify diabetes types using encounter codes, prescriptions, and combinations of these criteria (“combination algorithms”). We identified 3 algorithms with the highest sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), and kappa coefficient, and evaluated performance by age at diagnosis in the validation cohort.

Results

There were 10,196 (T1D n = 60, T2D n = 10,136) and 5101 (T1D n = 43, T2D n = 5058) people in the derivation and validation cohorts (mean age at diagnosis 22.7, 55.9 years; 53.3, 43.9% female; for T1D and T2D respectively). Algorithms using codes or prescriptions classified T1D well for age at diagnosis < 20 years, but sensitivity and PPV dropped for older ages at diagnosis. Combination algorithms maximized sensitivity or PPV, but not both. The “high sensitivity for type 1” algorithm (ratio of type 1 to type 2 codes ≥ 4, or at least 1 insulin prescription within 90 days) had a sensitivity of 95.3% (95% confidence interval 84.2–99.4%; PPV 12.8%, 9.3–16.9%), while the “high PPV for type 1” algorithm (ratio of type 1 to type 2 codes ≥ 4, and multiple daily injections with no other glucose-lowering medication prescription) had a PPV of 100.0% (79.4–100.0%; sensitivity 37.2%, 23.0–53.3%), and the “optimized” algorithm (ratio of type 1 to type 2 codes ≥ 4, and at least 1 insulin prescription within 90 days) had a sensitivity of 65.1% (49.1–79.0%) and PPV of 75.7% (58.8–88.2%) across all ages. Accuracy of T2D classification was high for all algorithms.

Conclusions

Our validated set of algorithms accurately classifies T1D and T2D using EHRs for Hong Kong residents enrolled in a diabetes register. The choice of algorithm should be tailored to the unique requirements of each study question.
A randomized controlled trial study of the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary impact of SITA (SMS as an Incentive To Adhere): a mobile technology-based intervention informed by behavioral economics to improve ART adherence among youth in Uganda
Authors: MacCarthy Sarah , Wagner Zachary , Mendoza-Graf Alexandra , Gutierrez Carlos Ignacio , Samba Clare , Birungi Josephine , Okoboi Stephen , Linnemayr Sebastian
Published: February 2020

Background

Studies report serious adherence problems among youth (individuals age 15–24 years of age) in Uganda. Recent growth in mobile phone ownership has highlighted the potential of using text-based interventions to improve antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence among Ugandan youth. We piloted a randomized controlled trial of a text-based intervention providing weekly real-time antiretroviral adherence feedback, based on information from a smart pill box, to HIV-positive Ugandan youth. In this paper, we report the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary impact of the intervention.

Methods

We randomized participants to a control group, or to receive messages with information on either their own adherence levels (Treatment 1 - T1), or their own adherence and peer adherence levels (Treatment 2 – T2). We conducted six focus groups from December 2016 to March 2017 with providers and youth ages 15–24, double coded 130 excerpts, and achieved a pooled Cohen’s Kappa of 0.79 and 0.80 based on 34 randomly selected excerpts.

Results

The quantitative and qualitative data show that the intervention was deemed acceptable and feasible. After controlling for baseline adherence, the T1 group had 3.8 percentage point lower adherence than the control group (95% CI -9.9, 2.3) and the T2 group had 2.4 percentage points higher adherence than the control group (95% CI -3.0, 7.9). However, there was an increasing treatment effect over time for the T2 group with the largest effect towards the end of the study; a 2.5 percentage point increase in the initial 9-weeks that grows steadily to 9.0 percentage points by the last 9-weeks of the study. We find negative treatment effects for T1 in 3 of the 4 9-week intervals. This pilot study was not designed to detect statistically significant differences.

Conclusions

Improving youth’s adherence by supplementing information about their adherence with information about the adherence of peers is a promising new strategy that should be further evaluated in a fully-powered study. Providing one’s own adherence information alone appears to have less potential.

Trial registration

NCT0251435607/30/2015.
Association of ABO polymorphisms and pancreatic Cancer/ Cardiocerebrovascular disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Yanxia , Liu Luyang , Huang Yubei , Zheng Hong , Li Lian
Published: February 2020

Background

ABO gene polymorphisms have been reported to be associated with the risk of multiple cancers and cardiocerebrovascular diseases. However, the results remained controversial. In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify the association between two SNPs (rs505922 and rs657152) in ABO gene and cancers/cardiocerebrovascular diseases.

Method

All eligible case-control studies come from PubMed, Embase and Web of Science up to Jan. 1, 2019. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the corresponding associations. Sensitivity analysis, publication bias assessment, and heterogeneity test were performed using STATA 12.0.

Results

A total of nineteen articles involving twenty-two case-control populations were included according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Twelve populations (20,820 cases and 27,837 controls) were used to evaluate the relationship between rs505922 and overall cancers and nine populations (22,275 cases and 71,549 controls) were included to assess the association between rs505922 and cardiocerebrovascular diseases. The results showed a significant association between the rs505922 polymorphism and cancers (CvsT: OR = 1.13, 95%CI = 1.05–1.22, P = 0.001), and cardiocerebrovascular diseases (OR = 1.36, 95%CI = 1.19–1.57, P < 0.001). Five populations (8660 cases and 10,618 controls) were included to evaluate association between rs657152 and cancers and five populations (8105 cases and 6712 controls) were included to estimate the relationship between rs657152 and cardiocerebrovascular diseases. The result of meta-analysis reveals that rs657152 was significantly associated with cancers (OR = 1.18, 95%CI = 1.13–1.23, P < 0.001) and cardiocerebrovascular diseases (OR = 1.54, 95%CI = 1.24–1.92, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study suggested that ABO polymorphisms might serve as a risk factor of pancreatic cancers and cardiocerebrovascular diseases.
Gestational weight gain charts for twin pregnancies in Southeast China
Authors: Lin Lihua , Lin Juan , Mao Xiaodan , Xu Libo , Zhang Ronghua , Luo Jinying , Lin Yingying , Yan Jianying
Published: February 2020

Background

To establish age-standardized charts of weight gain for term twin pregnancies in Southeast China.

Methods

We designed a retrospective study on data from women pregnant with twins, a gestational age beyond 36 weeks and an average weight ≥ 2500 g. We established hierarchical linear regression models to express gestational weight gain patterns.

Results

We analyzed data from 884 women pregnant with twins (151 underweight, 597 normal weight, and 136 overweight). Our final models fit the crude weight measurement data well. The means of weight gain generally decreased as the pre-pregnancy BMI increased. For each BMI category, the mean weight gains increased with the gestational age and the standard deviation increased slightly. The mean weight gains were 18.82 ± 6.73, 18.53 ± 6.74, and 16.97 ± 6.95 kg at 37 weeks in underweight, normal weight, and overweight women, respectively.

Conclusion

The weight gain chart can be used to estimate maternal weight gain to be gestational age–standardized z scores by pre-pregnancy BMI and may serve as an innovative tool for perinatal care providers to guide the weight gain of women pregnant with twins.
Essential newborn care utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alamneh Yoseph , Adane Fentahun , Yirga Tadesse , Desta Melaku
Published: February 2020

Background

Globally, newborn death accounted for 46% of under-five deaths and more than 80% of newborn deaths are the result of preventable and treatable conditions. Findings on the prevalence and associated factors of essential newborn care utilization are highly variable and inconsistent across Ethiopia. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of essential newborn care utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods

The international databases accessed included MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Sciences, Scopus, and Grey literature databases, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Cochrane library were scientifically explored. We considered all primary studies reporting the prevalence of essential newborn care utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia. We retrieved all necessary data by using a standardized data extraction format spreadsheet. STATA 14 statistical software was used to analyze the data and Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 test was used to assess the heterogeneity between the studies. There significant heterogeneity between the studies so a random effect model was employed.

Results

The pooled estimate of essential newborn care utilization from 11 studies in Ethiopia was 48.77% (95% CI: 27.89, 69.65). Residence [OR = 2.50 (95% CI: 1.64, 3.88)], Postnatal care [OR = 5.53, 95% CI = (3.02, 10.13], counseling during pregnancy and delivery [OR = 4.39, 95% CI = (2.99, 6.45], antenatal care follows up (OR = 6.84; 95% CI: 1.15, 4.70) and maternal educational status [OR = 1.63 (95% CI: 1.12, 2.37)] were identified as associated factors of essential newborn care utilization.

Conclusion

Based on the current study essential newborn care utilization in Ethiopia was significantly low in comparison with the current global recommendation on essential newborn care utilization. Place of residence, Postnatal care, counseling during pregnancy and delivery, antenatal care follow up, and maternal educational status were associated risk factors. Therefore, on the basis of the results, it is suggested that special attention should be given to attempts to ensure that education should focus on women during ante and postnatal follow-up, counseling during pregnancy and delivery, as well as rural and illiterate mothers. Finally, appropriate newborn services at health facilities and raising mother’s level of awareness about newborn care practices are imperative in addressing the gaps in essential newborn care utilization in Ethiopia.
Maternal serum glycosylated fibronectin as a short-term predictor of preeclampsia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Huhn Evelyn A. , Hoffmann Ina , Martinez De Tejada Begoña , Lange Soeren , Sage Kylie M. , Roberts Charles T. , Gravett Michael G. , Nagalla Srinivasa R. , Lapaire Olav
Published: February 2020

Background

Preeclampsia is a major pregnancy complication that results in significant maternal and infant mortality, most of which occurs in low and middle-income countries. The accurate and timely diagnosis of preeclampsia is critical in management of affected pregnancies to reduce maternal and fetal/neonatal morbidity and mortality, yet difficulties remain in establishing the rigorous diagnosis of preeclampsia based on clinical parameters alone. Biomarkers that detect biochemical disease have been proposed as complements or alternatives to clinical criteria to improve diagnostic accuracy. This cohort study assessed the performance of several biomarkers, including glycosylated fibronectin (GlyFn), to rule-in or rule-out preeclampsia within 4 weeks in a cohort of women at increased risk for preeclampsia.

Methods

151 women with risk factors for or clinical signs and symptoms of preeclampsia were selected from a prospective cohort. Maternal serum samples were collected between 20 and 37 weeks of gestation. Clinical suspicion of preeclampsia was defined as presence of new-onset proteinuria, or clinical symptoms of preeclampsia. Subjects with a clinical diagnosis of preeclampsia at the time of enrollment were excluded. GlyFn, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A2 (PAPPA2), placental growth factor (PlGF), and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) were measured by immunoassay. GlyFn was also determined using a rapid point-of care (POC) test format. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves derived from logistic regression analysis were used to determine the classification performance for each analyte.

Results

32 of 151 (21%) women developed a clinical diagnosis of preeclampsia within 4 weeks. All biomarkers exhibited good classification performance [GlyFn (area under the curve (AUROC) = 0.94, 91% sensitivity, 86% specificity); PAPPA2 AUC = 0.92, 87% sensitivity, 77% specificity; PlGF AUC = 0.90, 81% sensitivity, 83% specificity; sFlt-1 AUC = 0.92, 84% sensitivity, 91% specificity. The GlyFn immunoassay and the rapid POC test showed a correlation of r = 0.966.

Conclusions

In this prospective cohort, serum biomarkers of biochemical disease were effective in short-term prediction of preeclampsia, and the performance of GlyFn in particular as a POC test may meet the needs of rapid and accurate triage and intervention.