bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DV-DVFS: Merging Data variety and DVFS Technique to Manage the Energy Consumption of Big Data Processing
Authors: Ahmadvand Hossein , Foroutan Fouzhan Foroutan , Fathy Mahmood
Published: August 2020

Data variety is one of the most important features of Big Data. Data variety is the result of aggregating data from multiple sources and uneven distribution of data. This feature of Big Data causes high variation in consumption of processing resources such as CPU consumption. In this paper, we used Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS) to reduce the energy consumption of computation. To this goal, we consider a deadline as our constraint and before applying the DVFS technique to computer nodes, we estimate the processing time and the frequency needed to meet the deadline. We have used a set of data sets and applications in the evaluation phase. The experimental results show that our proposed approach surpasses the other scenarios in processing real datasets. Based on the experimental results in this paper, DV-DVFS can achieve up to 15% improvement in energy consumption.
An Automatic Estimation of the Rest-Interval for MotionWatch8© Using Uniaxial Movement and Lux Data
Authors: Backhouse Daniel , Falck Ryan Stanley , Liu-Ambrose Teresa
Published: August 2020

Poor sleep is linked with chronic conditions common in older adults, including diabetes, heart disease, and dementia. Valid and reliable field methods to objectively measure sleep are thus greatly needed to examine how poor sleep impacts older adults. Wrist-worn actigraphy (WWA) is a common objective measure of sleep that uses motion and illuminance data to estimate sleep. The rest-interval marks the time interval between when an individual attempts to sleep and the time they get out of bed to start their day. Traditionally, the rest-interval is scored manually by trained technicians, however algorithms currently exist which automatically score WWA data, saving time and providing consistency from user-to-user. However, these algorithms ignore illuminance data and only considered motion in their estimation of the rest-interval. This study therefore examines a novel algorithm that uses illuminance data to supplement the approximation of the rest-interval from motion data. We examined a total of 1086 days of data of 129 participants who wore the MotionWatch8© WWA for ≥14 nights of observation. Resultant sleep measures from three different parameter settings were compared to sleep measures derived following a standard scoring protocol and self-report times. The algorithm showed the strongest correlation to the standard protocol (r= 0.92 for sleep duration). There were no significant differences in sleep duration, sleep efficiency and fragmentation index estimates compared to the standard scoring protocol. These results suggest that an automated rest-interval scoring method using both light exposure and acceleration data provides comparable accuracy to the standard scoring method.
Whether Hemiarthroplasty Remains a Gold Standard Treatment for Patients With Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures? - A 20-year Sample of 4516 Patients From a Single Institute
Authors: Yeung Chi-Yung , Tsai Shang-Wen , Wu Po-Kuei , Chen Cheng-Fong , Chang Ming-Chau , Chen Wei-Ming
Published: August 2020

BackgroundFemoral neck fracture (FNF) is among the commonest fractures affecting the geriatric population. Hemiarthroplasty (HA) is a standard treatment procedure and has been performed by hip surgeons for decades. Recently, primary total hip replacement has proved advantageous for the treatment of such fractures. This study analysed the causes of HA failure and reevaluated whether HA remains a gold standard treatment for patients with displaced FNFs.MethodsA total of 4516 patients underwent HA at our centre from 1998 to 2017. The HA implants included unipolar and bipolar prostheses. Patients were enrolled who received the diagnosis of a displaced FNF, underwent primary HA initially, required second revision procedures, and were followed up for a minimum of 36 months. Data were collected and comprehensively analysed.ResultsIn 4516 cases, 99 patients underwent second surgeries. The revision rate was 2.19%. Reasons for failure were acetabular wear (n = 30, 30.3%), femoral stem subsidence (n = 24, 24.2%), periprosthetic fracture (n = 22, 22.2%), infection (n = 16, 16.2%), and recurrent dislocation (n = 7, 7.1%). The mean follow-up period was 78.1 months. The interval between failed HA and revision surgery was 22.8 months.ConclusionHA has an extremely low revision rate and remains a gold standard treatment for patients with displaced FNFs.Levels of Evidence: Level III, Retrospective Cohort Study, Therapeutic Study
KDM6B promotes ESCC cell proliferation and metastasis by facilitating C/EBPβ transcription
Authors: Qin Mei , Han Fei , Wu Jian , Gao Feng-xia , Li Yuan , Yan De-xin , He Xue-mei , Long Yang , Tang Xiao-ping , Ren De-lian , Gao Yan , Dai TianYang
Published: August 2020

Background: As an H3K27me3 demethylase and counteracts polycomb-mediated transcription repression, KDM6B has been implicated in the development and malignant progression in various types of cancers. However, its potential roles in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) have not been explored.Methods: The expression of KDM6B in human ESCC tissues and cell lines was examined using qRT-PCR, immunohistochemical staining and immunoblotting. The effects of KDM6B on the proliferation and metastasis of ESCC were examined using in vitro and in vivo functional tests. RNA-seq and ChIP-seq assay were used to demonstrate the molecular biological mechanism of KDM6B in ESCC.Results: We show that the expression level of KDM6B increased significantly in patients with lymph node metastasis. KDM6B knockdown reduces proliferation and metastasis of ESCC cells, while KDM6B overexpression has the opposite effects. Mechanistically, KDM6B regulates TNFA_SIGNALING_VIA_NFκB signalling pathways, and H3K27me3 binds to the promoter region of C/EBPβ, leading to the promotion of C/EBPβ transcription. Besides, we show that GSK-J4, a chemical inhibitor of KDM6B,markedly inhibits proliferation and metastasis of ESCC cells.Conclusions: KDM6B promotes ESCC progression by increasing the transcriptional activity of C/EBPβ depending on its H3K27 demethylase activity.
Clinical performance of Non-invasive prenatal testing for sex chromosomal aneuploidies in Northeast China
Authors: Wang Lu , Dai Rulin , Shi Qingyang , Jiang Yuting , Zhang Hongguo , Liu Ruizhi , Xi Qi
Published: August 2020

Background: Along with the discovery of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and the invention of next-generation sequencing (NGS), non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) had appeared and been applied for detecting common aneuploidies such as trisomy 21, 18, and 13, with low false-negative and false-positive rates. Recently, it had also been used for sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs). To assess the clinical utility of NIPT for SCAs in Northeast China, we collected NIPT data from BGI 500 sequencing platform in the Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Prenatal Diagnosis of the First Hospital of Jilin University, and calculate the positive predictive value (PPV) and false positive rate (FPR). Results: A cohort of 14936 samples were analyzed by NIPT, and revealed 70 cases with SCAs high-risk, among them, 40 women agreed to undergo amniocentesis, but as many as 30 ones refused further diagnose. Based on verified fetal karyotype, 30.0% (12/40) were confirmed to be a true positive. Unluckily, the PPV for monosomy X performed 0%. Besides, positive 47,XXX were 46.67% (7/15), 40.00% (2/5) were positive for 47, XYY, and 42.86% (3/7) were positive for 47, XXY.Conclusions: In conclusion, our present results confirmed that NIPT sequenced by BGI 500 demonstrated lowest PPVs for 45,X, but the more accurate prediction for other SCAs, it is still a potential method for SCAs screening. Henceforth, we should focus on how to improve the test utility and provide better services for pregnant women in need.
Emergency calls are early indicators of ICU bed requirement during the COVID-19 epidemic A retrospective study in Ile-de-France region, France
Authors: Adnet Frédéric , Boyet Marin , Avrane Jean-Jacques , Batteux Frédéric , Boëlle Pierre-Yves , Boutet Jérémie , Calvez Vincent , Carli Pierre , Chansard Pascal , Chollet Charlotte , Cremieux François , Descamps Diane , Gaubert Stéphane , Goix Laurent , Hausfater Pierre , Hirsch Martin , Lecarpentier Eric , Loeb Thomas , Marx Jean-Sébastien , Paugam Catherine , Piarroux Renaud , Riou Bruno , Salomon Remi , Smadja Serge , Telion Caroline , Vieillard-Baron Antoine
Published: August 2020

Background The aim of our retrospective study was to evaluate the earliest COVID19-related signal to anticipate requirements of intensive care unit (ICU) beds. Although the number of ICU beds is crucial during the COVID-19 epidemic, there is no recognized early indicator to anticipate it. Methods In the Ile-de-France region, from February 20 to May 5, 2020, emergency medical service (EMS) calls and the response provided (ambulances) together the percentage of positive reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests, general practitioner (GP) and emergency department (ED) visits, and hospital admissions of COVID-19 patients were recorded daily and compared to the number of ICU patients. Correlation curve analysis was performed to determine the best correlation coefficient, depending on the number of days the indicator has been shifted. Primary endpoint was the number of ICU patients. Results EMS calls, percentage of positive RT-PCR tests, ambulances used, ED and GP visits of COVID-19 patients were strongly associated with COVID-19 ICU patients with an anticipation delay of 23, 15, 14, 13, and 12 days respectively. Hospitalization did not anticipate ICU bed requirement. Conclusion The daily number of COVID19-related telephone calls received by the EMS and corresponding dispatch ambulances, and the proportion of positive RT-PCR tests were the earliest indicators of the number of COVID19 patients requiring ICU care during the epidemic crisis, rapidly followed by ED and GP visits. This information may help health authorities to anticipate a future epidemic, including a second wave of COVID19 or decide additional social measures.
Adverse Events of Video Capsule Endoscopy Over the Past Two Decades: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Yuan-Chen , Pan Jun , Liu Ya-Wei , Sun Feng-Yuan , Qian Yang-Yang , Jiang Xi , Zou Wen-Bin , Xia Ji , Jiang Bin , Ru Nan , Zhu Jia-Hui , Linghu En-Qiang , Li Zhao-Shen , Liao Zhuan
Published: August 2020

Background: A full spectrum of video capsule endoscopy (VCE) adverse events over the past two decades has not been evaluated. We aimed to determine pooled rates, predictors and temporal-trend of VCE adverse events over the past two decades. Methods: Systematic search of PubMed and EMBASE for English-language publications reporting VCE adverse events (January 1, 2000 to March 31, 2019). Data were extracted independently by two investigators. Pooled VCE adverse event rates were calculated using random-effects model. Predictors and temporal-trend of each adverse event were performed by meta-regression analyses. Results: In total, 402 studies were identified, including 108,079 VCE procedures. Rate of retention, swallow disorder, aspiration, technical failure, and procedural adverse events were 0.73% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.59%-0.89%), 0.75% (95% CI, 0.43%-1.13%), 0.00% (95% CI, 0.00%-0.00%), 0.94% (95% CI, 0.65%-1.28%), 0.67% (95% CI, 0.32%-1.10%), respectively; incomplete examination rate of esophagus, stomach, small bowel, and colon were 9.05%, 7.69%, 12.08%, 19.19%, respectively. Patency capsule reduced retention rate by 5.04%, whereas known inflammatory bowel disease increased retention rate by 4.29%. Elder was the risk and protective factor for small bowel incomplete examination (0.30%) and swallow disorder (-0.72%), respectively. Rates of retention and small bowel incomplete examination significantly declined over time (P = .0006 and P < .0001).Conclusions: VCE adverse event rates were generally low, and retention and small bowel incomplete examination rates declined over the past two decades. Patients with known inflammatory bowel disease or elder should be alerted to high risk of retention or small bowel incomplete examination (PROSPERO: CRD42019139595).
Multidisciplinary approach of non-responders after bariatric surgery reduces the indication for revisional surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Romeijn Marleen , Uittenbogaart Martine , Dielen François M. H. van , Luijten Arijan A. P. M. , Janssen Loes , Leclercq Wouter K. G.
Published: August 2020

Background

20–30% of patients show a lack of response after bariatric surgery (BS). These non-responders may experience insufficient weight loss or significant weight regain. Based on previous research in our center, it has been identified that before the introduction of a multidisciplinary team (MDT), 68% of the non-responders underwent revisional surgery. This study describes the effect of an MDT on treatment strategy in non-responders after BS.
Methods

this retrospective study included non-responders that were reviewed in an MDT meeting. Patients were categorized as primary non- responders (1NR) or as secondary non-responders (2NR). Outcomes assessed were: I. MDT-based treatment (conservative versus operative), II. Weight loss, III. Complications after revisional surgery.
Results

a total of 104 patients were included (n = 15 1NR, n = 89 2NR). In 73 patients, lifestyle and/or behavioral changes were indicated. Only eleven patients (13%) were re-operated in which one complication occurred. Twenty patients did not show up at their appointment with the dietician, physical therapist and/or medical psychologist and were excluded from further analysis. Conservatively treated patients lost 2.1 kg < 12 months (SD = 7.29) and 0.8 kg < 24 months (SD = 5.08). Surgically treated patients lost 12.0 kg < 12 months (SD = 4.29) and 26.3 kg < 24 months (SD = 2.75).
Conclusions

the rate of revisional surgery decreased after the introduction of an MDT. An explanation for this could be that an MDT drives more patients towards a conservative treatment since it identifies modifiable lifestyle and/or behavioral factors contributing to non-response. Incorporation of an MDT may contribute to the selection of patients who might benefit from revisional surgery.
Research on Model, Experiment and Application of Gravity Valve
Authors: Yuan Yu , Huaisong Wu , Youzhi Liu , Weiming Yang , Zhiwei Jiao
Published: August 2020

In this paper, two kinds of gravity valves are designed: copper bead gravity valve and hose gravity valve. Firstly, the stress distribution on the substrate of the gravity valve is simulated when the copper bead and the substrate of the gravity valve is in the non-touched, half-touched or full-touched states respectively, and the fluid leakage laws are also analyzed in the different states, by ABAQUS 6.16. The flow rate control effects of the copper bead gravity valve with different cone angle are measured and analyzed experimentally, and the optimal cone angle are obtained. Secondly, the cross-section shapes of the hose are compared and analyzed by FEA (Finite Element Analysis) for several kinds of hose gravity valve. It is concluded that the shuttle hose has the best performance. Then the shuttle hose gravity valve is made and its flow characteristics are measured and analyzed with different length of the hose. Finally, the two kinds of gravity valve are compared and applied. The copper bead gravity valve is used in chemical reaction self-driven rolling robot. The hose gravity valve is used to control the end of bending brake stably for the angle sensor, and the hose gravity valve can also be used to establish mechanical feedback loop to facilitate the flow rate control by the angle.
The Opportunistic Pathogen Sphaeropsis Sapinea is Found to be one of the Most Abundant Fungi in Symptomless and Diseased Scots Pine in Central-Europe
Authors: Blumenstein Kathrin , Langer Gitta , Bußkamp Johanna , Langer Ewald , Terhonen Eeva
Published: August 2020

Background: The opportunistic and latent pathogen Sphaeropsis sapinea is one of the most important forest pathogens on pine. The fungus may cause Diplodia tip blight on several coniferous trees and disease symptoms come visible when trees are weakened by stress, usually related to injuries and drought. This project compares the mycobiome of healthy and diseased Scots pines. Twigs were sampled in June and September 2018 in a German forest stand with varying health status of the sampled Scots pines. Growth of 2017 and 2018 were sampled and cultivable, filamentous fungi isolated and the mycobiome was analysed by high-throughput sequencing (HTS) of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region. Results: A PERMANOVA analysis confirmed that the mycobiome community composition significantly differed between growth years (p < 0.001) and sampling time (p < 0.001) but not between healthy and diseased trees. Higher amount of S. sapinea was observed in June and the growth year 2017. Besides yeasts which were neglected, 23 ascomyceteous fungal endophytes were isolated. S. sapinea was the most common endophyte isolated and the second common in HTS data. It was highly abundant in symptomless (healthy) trees. Conclusion: Results highlights the ability of S. sapinea to accumulate unnoticed before disease outbreaks, implementing the sudden threat for Scots pines in the future.
Determinants of Contraceptive Use Among Female Undergraduates in Edox State
Authors: Oseni Tijani Idris Ahmad , Momoh Mojeed O , Affusim Christopher Chidozie
Published: August 2020

Background: Nigeria has one of the highest maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Use of modern contraceptive has been shown to significantly reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. However, contraceptive use is still low among young women in Nigeria. This study was to determine the prevalence and determinants of contraceptive use among female undergraduates in Edo State.Methods: The study was a cross sectional study. 360 female undergraduates attending Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital who met the eligibility criteria were consecutively recruited and questionnaire administered to them. The results were analysed using epi info 3.5.4 statistical software and significance level was set at p value less than 0.05.Results: The prevalence of contraceptive use among female undergraduates was found to be 28% despite 100% knowledge of contraception. Reasons for non-usage included fear of future infertility, refusal by male partner, fear of safety profile of the methods and lack of interest. Determinants of contraceptive use among the study population were older age (p = 0.02), being single (p = 0.04) and high socioeconomic status (p < 0.001).Conclusion: Contraceptive use is low among female undergraduates despite adequate knowledge due to fear of adverse effects and non-cooperation by male partner.Implication for Action: There is need for greater advocacy and education on the safety profile of modern contraception by policy makers, as well as educating men on the importance and benefits of contraception as their cooperation is key to increased usage.
Interaction of Dietary Carbohydrate and Fat on Glucose Metabolism in Growing Pigs
Authors: Cline Paul M. , Tsai Tsung Cheng , Lents Clay A. , Stelzleni Alex M. , Dove C. Robert , Azain Michael
Published: August 2020

Background: Increased consumption of fructose has been suggested to be a contributing cause of the increased rates of obesity in humans. Rodent studies have shown an increase in de novo lipogenesis and decreased insulin sensitivity in response to feeding high levels of fructose, but it is unclear if these effects occur in the same progression in humans. We aimed to develop a swine model for studying changes in glucose metabolism and insulin resistance resulting from dietary carbohydrate alone or in combination with high dietary fat. Two experiments were conducted to determine if the source of dietary carbohydrate, with or without added fat, had an effect on body weight gain, glucose metabolism, or insulin response in growing pigs. Results: In the first experiment, pigs (24 barrows, initial body weight 28 kg) were fed one of four diets in which the source of carbohydrate was varied: 1) 20% starch; 2) 10% glucose + 10% starch; 3) 10% fructose + 10% starch; and 4) 20% fructose for 9 weeks. There were no differences in growth rate or glucose clearance observed. Experiment 2 was conducted as a 3 x 2 factorial with the main effects of carbohydrate source (20% starch, glucose, or fructose) and fat level (0 vs 10%). Pigs (24 barrows, initial body weight 71 kg) were fed one of six experimental diets for 9 weeks. Compared to the other dietary treatments, pigs fed fructose with high fat had an elevated glucose area under the curve during the GTT (Carbohydrate x Fat interaction, P < 0.01). This same group had a lower insulin response (Carbohydrate x Fat, P < 0.05). Conclusions: This work demonstrates that pigs can be a viable model to assess the long-term effects of dietary carbohydrates on metabolism and body composition. Studies of longer duration are needed to determine if these changes are indicative of insulin resistance.
Prevalence of Orthorexia Nervosa in a Sample of Patients Attending Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Services with a Diagnosis of Eating Disorder
Authors: Graffeo Ignazio , Harron Mary , O'Mahony Edmond
Published: August 2020

Background: The term Orthorexia derives from the Greek “ortho – correct” and “orexis – appetite”; Orthorexia Nervosa is a pathological fixation with healthy eating that, starting with the idea to obtain a maximum health with a proper diet, leads to malnourishment and other medical sequelae, loss of relationships, loss of self-esteem, poor quality of life in general. Orthorexia, despite receiving broad empirical evidence, is not currently included in any psychiatric diagnostic manual. The main aim of this study is to investigate its presence in a sample of patients already diagnosed with a canonical eating disorder and also to understand eventual overlaps with other clinical disorders in order to optimize treatment and follow up. The ORTO-15 questionnaire, developed by an Italian team of researchers in 2005, was used to achieve the above aims: it is a tool comprehensive of 15 questions that assesses eating habits perceived as healthy. Really interesting and fascinating is to comprehend if people with a diagnosis of eating disorder present orthorectic behaviour and how this emerging reality fits in the Irish society with its peculiarities and uniqueness. Results: The Point Prevalence obtained is 17.9%. The expected rates of Orthorexia Nervosa in the general population are between 6.9% and 57.6%, with a peak of 81.8% in specific populations, fact that places our examined sample in the lower side of the prevalence previously considered in other studies.Conclusions: It is very difficult to comprehend and explain the reasons behind this fact and probably this is due to an overshadowing of symptoms with the major eating disorders. It is also significant the absence of correlation found between OCD and ON and also the fact that ON is more linked to Bulimia Nervosa in our sample rather than Anorexia Nervosa. The results obtained from this study give also a clear indication of the profile of the orthorexic patient, considered that the sample was obtained from a population of people with a diagnosis of Eating Disorder:
Delivery Health Service Satisfaction of Mothers and Fear of COVID-19: Implications for Maternal and Child Health in Pakistan
Authors: Jafree Sara Rizvi , Momina Ain ul , Muazzam Amina , Wajid Rabia , Calib Gloria
Published: August 2020

High maternal and neonatal mortality rates in developing regions like Pakistan are linked to low rates of institutional deliveries. One way to improve rates of institutional deliveries is through improving institutional delivery service satisfaction in mothers. The aim of this research is to identify which factors influence delivery service satisfaction in mothers during the era of COVID-19 and to identify socio-demographic characteristics of mothers associated with greater fear of catching COVID-19 during institutional deliveries. A total of 190 women who had delivered a baby between May 2020 and June 2020 were sampled from two private and two public hospitals of Lahore which gave permission for data collection. Results reveal that majority women at 74.7% are afraid of contracting COVID-19, specifically women: delivering at public hospitals, who are illiterate or semi-literate, with more than 4 children, with low household income, and who are unemployed. Four multiple regression models were used to identify factors related to higher satisfaction in delivery services, including: (i) pre-delivery care (explanatory power of R2 = 0.651), (ii) during delivery care (R2 = 0.716), (iii) after delivery care for mother (R2 = 0.525), and (iv) after delivery care for newborn (R2 = 0.780). Based on our findings we recommend improved regulation of delivery services, especially at public hospitals, increased protection for disadvantaged women groups, and improved service quality by healthcare providers.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Cardiac Surgery in Israel
Authors: Keizman Eitan , Ram Eilon , Kachel Erez , Sternik Leonid , Raanani Ehud
Published: August 2020

Background: Ever since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a pandemic, worldwide efforts are being made to “flatten the curve”. Israel was amongst the first countries to impose significant restrictions. As a result, cardiac surgeons have been required to scale down their routine practice, resulting in a significant reduction in the number of cardiac surgeries. The aim of this study is to characterize the impact of COVID-19 on cardiac surgery in Israel. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study performed in two cardiac surgery departments in Israel and includes all patients who underwent cardiac surgery in March and April during the years 2019 and 2020. The patient cohort was divided into two groups based on the year of operation. Analysis of the patients’ baseline characteristics, operative data, and postoperative outcome, was performed. Results: The 2019 group (n=173), and the 2020 group (n=108) were similar regarding their baseline characteristics, previous medical history, and rates of previous revascularization interventions. However, compared to the 2019 group, patients in the 2020 group were found to be more symptomatic (NYHA class IV; 2.4% vs. 6.2%, p=0.007). While all patients underwent similar procedures, patients in the 2020 group had significantly longer procedural time (p<0.001). In-hospital mortality rate was found to be significantly higher in group 2020 (13% vs. 5.2%, p=0.037). Conclusions: While the number of patients undergoing cardiac surgery declined during the outbreak period, the rate of surgical mortality increased. One explanation for this might be delayed hospital arrival.
Aeromonas Hydrophila Infection Activates Death Receptor Apoptosis Pathway in the RBCs of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)
Authors: Lu Zhijie , Yang Minxuan , Zhang Kai , Zhan Fanbin , Li Fenglin , Shi Fei , Li Yanan , Zhao Lijuan , Li Jun , Lin Li , Qin Zhendong
Published: August 2020

Background: Fish blood contains RBCs (Red blood cells) as the major cells. Unlike the absence of nucleus in mammalian RBC, fish RBC contains a nucleus. Previous researches have indicated that fish RBCs have a significant function in immune responses. However, the mechanism underlying the immune responses against bacterial infection of teleost RBCs remains enigmatic. To decipher the mechanisms, after the infection of A. hydrophila, transcriptomic profiling of grass carp RBCs was analyzed. Results: Outcomes demonstrated that there were 2144 altogether DEGs (Differently Expressed Genes) between the A. hydrophila non-disease groups, which includes 817 up-regulated and 1327 down-regulated DEGs. Differently Expressed Genes were allocated to 45 GO terms, including 20 natural procedure terms, 14 cell related element, and 11 terms related to molecular functions. Likewise, the expression levels of cytokines by Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction showed that they (e.g. CCL4, CCL11, CCL20, IL-4, IL-12, and IFNα) were significantly increased after A. hydrophila infection, which was identical to the expression patterns of transcriptomic data. The infection could cause the apoptosis of RBCs which was confirmed by annexin V/PI assay. To further elucidate the apoptosis pathway, the expression levels of genes by mRNA included in cellular apoptosis were monitored. The outcomes indicated that the expressions of mRNA of p53, Fas, Leucine-rich repeats, death domain-containing (LRDD) and caspase 8 were all significantly increased, respectively. Conclusions: Our results support the notion that A. hydrophila infection could activate Fas-related death receptor apoptosis pathway in grass carp RBCs, which will reveal another insight on the mechanisms underlying the antibacterial immunity of teleost fish RBCs.
Manganese alleviates palmitic acid-induced insulin resistance in HepG2 cells by suppressing miR-195a-5p
Authors: Fei xu , Jiang Ruyue , Zhang Qingwen , Zhang Jingyi , Na Lixin Na
Published: August 2020

The authors have removed this preprint from Research Square.
Increasing levels of Parasutterella in the gut microbiome correlate with improving Low-Density Lipoprotein levels in healthy adults consuming resistant potato starch during a randomised trial
Authors: Bush Jason Russell , Alfa Michelle J
Published: August 2020

Background
Prebiotics, defined as a substrate that is selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit, present a potential option to optimize gut microbiome health. Elucidating the relationship between specific intestinal bacteria, prebiotic intake, and the health of the host remains a primary microbiome research goal.
Objective
To assess the correlations between gut microbiota, serum health parameters, and prebiotic consumption in healthy adults.
Methods
We performed ad hoc exploratory analysis of changes in abundance of genera in the gut microbiome of 75 participants from a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial that evaluated the effects of resistant potato starch (RPS; MSPrebiotic®, N = 38) intervention versus a fully digestible placebo (N = 37) for which primary and secondary outcomes have previously been published. Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify relationships between health parameters (ie. blood glucose and lipids) and populations of gut bacteria.
Results
Abundance of Parasutterella (phylum Proteobacteria) tended to increase in the gut microbiome of individuals consuming RPS and those increases in Parasutterella were correlated with reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in participants consuming RPS but not placebo. Segregating RPS-consuming individuals whose LDL levels decreased (ie “Responders”) from those who did not (ie. “Non-Responders”) revealed that LDL Responders had significantly higher levels of Parasutterella both at baseline and after 12 weeks of consuming RPS.
Conclusion
Our analyses suggest that RPS may help improve LDL levels depending upon the levels of Parasutterella in an individual’s gut microbiome.
Trial Registration:
This study protocol was reviewed and approved by Health Canada (Submission #188517; “Notice of Authorization” dated 06/05/13) and registered as NCT01977183 (10/11/13) listed on NIH website: ClinicalTrials.gov. Data generated in this study have been submitted to NCBI (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/381931).
Integrated Analysis of Immune-Related Genes in Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yiru , Liu Yunduo , Guan Yue , Li Hao , Liu Yuan , Zhang Mengjun , Cui Ping , Kong Dan , Chen Xiuwei , Yin Hang
Published: August 2020

Background:Exploring novel and sensitive targets is urgent due to the high morbidity of endometrial cancer (EC). The purpose of our study was to explore the transcription factors and immune-related genes in EC and further identify immune-based lncRNA signature as biomarker for predicting survival prognosis.Methods:Transcription factors, aberrantly expressed immune-related genes and immune-related lncRNAs were explored through bioinformatics analysis. Cox regression and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis were conducted to identify the immune and overall survival (OS) related lncRNAs. The accuracy of model was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier method and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and the independent prognostic indicator was identified with Cox analysis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were conducted to detect the accuracy of our results.Results:A network of 29 transcription factors and 17 immune-related genes was constructed. Furthermore, four immune-prognosis-related lncRNAs were screened out. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and time-dependent ROC analysis revealed a satisfactory predictive potential of the 4-lncRNA model. Consistency was achieved among the results from the training set, testing set and entire cohort. The distributed patterns between the high- and low-risk groups could be distinguished in principal component analysis. Comparisons of the risk score and clinical factors confirmed the four-lncRNA-based signature as an independent prognostic indicator. Last, the reliability of the results was verified by qRT-PCR in 29 cases of endometrial carcinoma.Conclusions:Overall, our study constructed a network of transcription factors and immune-related genes and explored a four immune-related lncRNA signature that could serve as a novel potential biomarker of EC.
Cold Atmospheric Plasma Selectively Induces G0/G1 Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in AR-Independent Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Ning Meng , Zhang Zhifa , Yu Lihui , Han Peiyu , Dai xiaofeng
Published: August 2020

BackgroundAndrogen receptor-independent prostate cancers do not respond to androgen blockage therapies and suffer from high recurrence rate. We aim to contribute to the establishment of novel therapeutic approaches against such malignancies.Methods We examined whether and how cold atmospheric plasma delivers selectivity against AR-independent prostate cancers using human normal epithelial prostatic cells PNT1A and AR-negative DU145 prostate cancer cells.ResultsWe show that cold atmospheric plasma could selectively halt cell proliferation and migration in androgen receptor-independent cells as a result of induced cell apoptosis and G0/G1 stage cell cycle arrest, and such outcomes were achieved through modulations on the MAPK and NF-kB pathways in response to physical plasma induced intracellular redox level. ConclusionOur study reports cold atmospheric plasma induced reduction on the proliferation and migration of androgen receptor-independent prostate cancer cells that offers novel therapeutic insights on the treatment of such cancers, and provides the first evidence on physical plasma induced cell cycle G0/G1 stage arrest that warrants the exploration on the synergistic use of cold atmospheric plasma and drugs such as chemotherapies in eradicating such cancer cells.
The Study of EFL Learnersʹ Perception of Using E-learning and Self-Regulation in English classrooms: Teachers, intermediate and advanced learners′ attitude
Authors: Faridi Marzie
Published: August 2020

E-learning and self-regulation are kinds of autonomous learning. Some researchers have long been interested in E-learning and self-regulation. The purpose of this article is to study the EFL learnersʹ perception of using E-learning and self-regulation in English classrooms. A quantitative research method was used for 360 intermediate, advanced learners and 34 teachers. Cluster sampling and convenience sampling method in order used for EFL learners and the teachers. Data gathered for six weeks in Zanjan English language institutes. The questionnaires were about advantages and disadvantages of e-learning and participants' perception on self-regulation capabilities by Likert scale that gave to the learners and teachers. Between group and within group investigated for both groups of participants. In general the results show the learnersʹ positive attitude toward using self-regulation and advantages of E-learning in English classrooms. The results imply the learnersʹ autonomy in learning process, and the teachers can control it by learnersʹ attitude.
Development and Psychometric Properties of Sexual and Reproductive Health Literacy Instrument for Infertile Women (SRH-Life): A Mixed Method Study
Authors: Rakhshaee Zahra , Khakbazan Zohreh , Nedjat Saharnaz Nedjat Saharnaz , Maasoumi Raziyeh
Published: August 2020

Background: Promoting sexual- reproductive health literacy is one of the most important strategies for achieving the goals of sexual- reproductive health in different groups of women. Infertile women are one of the most vulnerable groups to the adverse effects of low levels of health literacy. Since no specific instrument exists for assessing the level of sexual- reproductive health literacy, therefore, this study aimed to develop and evaluate the psychometric characteristics of an instrument for measuring sexual and reproductive health literacy among infertile women ( Sexual and Reproductive Health Literacy instrument for infertile women: SRH-Life) .Methods: This was a mixed method study with exploratory design which conducted from July 2018 to Jan 2020 in northern Iran. Semi structured interviews with infertile women, literature review and, expert panel comments were utilized to generate an item pool. Then, the psychometric properties of the instrument, validity and reliability were assessed.Results: The initial instrument contained 78 items. Next, 10 experts evaluated content validity. Some items were removed and a provisional version of the instrument with 47 items was provided. Then, the face validity was performed by 10 infertile women. Finally, a random sample of 235 infertile women completed the instrument and construct validity were assessed. The exploratory factor analysis was performed, 35 items were loaded, which indicated a 4-factor solution for the instrument including reproductive health information (8 items), infertility and treatment information (9 items), sexual health information (8 items) and functional sexual- reproductive literacy (10 items) that jointly explained 55.3% of the variance observed. For reliability, internal consistency showed satisfactory results with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from 0.89 to 0.9. Intraclass correlation coefficient (test-retest analysis) showed acceptable stability for the instrument.Conclusion: The results showed that Sexual and Reproductive Health Literacy instrument for infertile women (SRH-Life) is a valid and reliable measure for assessing sexual and reproductive health literacy among women with infertility.
Controlled Study of Distress in Parents of Children with Epilepsy
Authors: Abdelnaem Mostafa , Hassan Maha Ali , Hafeez Mohamed Helmy Abdel
Published: August 2020

BackgroundChildhood epilepsy can have a significant impact on family functioning with high rates of patent anxiety and depression being reported.ObjectivesTo demonstrate the frequency of depression, anxiety and distress among the parents of epileptic children.Patients and MethodsA cross sectional study design was carried out on 100 children and their parents attending the outpatient clinics in Minia University Hospital, arranged in two groups, Group (A) consisted of 50 epileptic children and their caregivers. On the other hand, Group (B) consisted of 50 age- and sex matched controls. Comprehensive Assessment was carried out. A well-prepared sheet had been used for the evaluation of subjects of the study. Twenty-one item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM - A) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) were used for interviewing the parents of the epileptic children to screen for depression, anxiety, stress in those parents. This process preceded by full explanation of all the previous tools.There was statistically significant difference between the parents of the epileptic group and the control group regarding DASS score, and HAM-A score. There was no statistically significance between the 2 groups regarding the HRSD. The parents group of generalized fits shows to have a higher score of DASS (9.5±4.7), HDRS (5.1±3.3). In contrast to the focal fits group. On the other hand, the parents of group of generalized fits shows to have lower score of HAM-A (6.7±4) in contrast to the focal fits group but not statistically significant.Compliant group shows to have higher score of HAM-A, HDRS score in contrast to non-compliant group. These correlations were not statistically significant.ConclusionsParents of the epileptic children had more anxiety, depression and stress than the control. Lower parental education was associated with more distress and anxiety.Ploy-therapy increased parent anxiety and depression. Compliance on treatment decreased parent distress but increased parent anxiety and depression.
Investigation of Total Polyphenol, Antioxidant Activity and Levels of Metals in Ethiopian Commercial Beers
Authors: Tefera Molla , Ayele Daniel
Published: August 2020

Total polyphenol, antioxidant activity and heavy metal contents in selected Ethiopian beers (Dashen= B1, Harar = B2, Habesha= B3, Saint George= B4 and Walya= B5) were investigated. The average concentration of total phenolic content in B1, B2, B3, B4 and B5 were found to be 219.80, 206.09, 190.24, 193.00 and 212.10 mg GAE/L, respectively. The obtained results showed that B1 contained significantly highest total polyphenol content (219.80±2.83 mg/L) and showed the highest radical scavenging capacities (84.16±0.65). According to Pearson’s correlation between polyphenol extract with antioxidant activities, suggested that phenolic compound in beer were contributor to antioxidant activity. Similarly, all the beer samples were analyzed for Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni and Pb with ﬂame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The total metal concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu Ni and Pb were found to be in the range of (ND–0.022 mg/L), (0.02 -0.041), (0.023-0.054), (ND-0.064) and (ND-0.022 mg/L), respectively. The efficiency of the procedure was validated by spiking and the percent recovery of the metals varied from 90.9-104.3%.
Gentiopicroside promotes osteogenesis and prevents bone loss in ovariectomized mice by modulation of β-catenin-BMP2 signaling pathway
Authors: Jiang Huaji , Zhong Jialiang , Li Wenjun , Dong Jianghui , Xian Cory J , Shen Yung-Kang , Yao Lufeng , Wu Qiang , Wang Liping
Published: August 2020

Background: Osteoporosis is characterized by increased bone fragility and the drugs used at present to treat osteoporosis can cause adverse reactions. Gentiopicroside (GEN) is widely used in the traditional Chinese medicine thanks to its multiple pharmacological activities including the suppression of osteoclastogenesis. Therefore, the aim of this work was to explore the effect of GEN on bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) osteogenesis for a potential osteoporosis therapy.Methods: In vitro, BMSCs were exposed to GEN at different doses for 2 weeks, while in vivo, ovariectomized osteoporosis was established in mice and the therapeutic effect of GEN was evaluated for 3 months.Results: Our results in vitro showed that GEN promoted the activity of alkaline phosphatase, increased the calcified nodules in BMSCs and upregulated the osteogenic factors (Runx2, OSX, OCN, OPN, and BMP2). In vivo, GEN strengthened the secretion of Runx2, OCN, and BMP2, increased the level of osteogenic parameters, and accelerated the osteogenesis of BMSCs by activating the BMP pathway and Wnt/β-catenin pathway, effect that was inhibited using the BMP inhibitor Noggin and Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor DKK1. Silencing the β-catenin gene and BMP2 gene blocked the osteogenic differentiation induced by GEN in BMSCs. This block was also observed when only β-catenin was silenced, while the knockout of BMP2 did not affect β-catenin expression induced by GEN. Interpretation.Conclusions: GEN promotes BMSC osteogenesis by regulating β-catenin-BMP signalling, providing a novel strategy in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Short Term Outcomes of Gastric Cancer at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), Rwanda.
Authors: Niyongombwa Irénée , Karenzi Irénée David , Sibomana Isaie , Muvunyi Vital , Kagimbangabo Jean Marie Vianney , Urimubabo Jean Christian , Nifasha Antoine , Abahuje Egide
Published: August 2020

Background: Gastric cancer is the 4th most common cause of cancer death worldwide with an annual global incidence of 985,600; two thirds of them being in the developing countries. Gastric cancer is endemic in the so called stomach cancer region comprising Rwanda, Burundi, South Western Uganda and eastern Kivu province of Democratic Republic of Congo and its incidence in Rwanda is estimated around 13 to 15 per 100,000 population. To date, the outcomes of gastric cancer in the East African region are under investigated, and the survival rate in Rwanda is not known. The aim of this study was to describe the short term outcomes (in-hospital mortality rate, length of hospital stay, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months survival rates) in patients treated for gastric cancer at CHUK.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data collected from records of patients who consulted CHUK over a period of 10 years from September 2007 to August 2016. Patients were followed in hospital and after discharge for survival length. Descriptive statistics were used for baseline demographic data, Kaplan-Meier model and univariate cox regression were used for survival analysis.Results: Of the 199 patients enrolled in the study, 92 (46%) were males and 107 (54%) females. The mean age was 55.4 ranging between 24 and 93. The mean symptoms duration was 15 months. Most patients consulted with advanced disease, 62.3% with distant metastases. Treatment with curative intent was offered for only 19.9% of patients. The in-hospital mortality rate was 13.3%. The 3, 6, 12 and 24 months survival rate was 52%, 40.5%, 28% and 23.4% respectively. The Overall survival rate was 7 months.Conclusion: Patients with gastric cancer have delayed consultations and advanced disease at the time of presentation. This cancer is associated with poor outcomes in terms of hospital mortality and post discharge survival rates.
Contraceptive Use Among Basic School Pupils in a Municipality in Ghana
Authors: Gbagbo Fred Yao
Published: August 2020

Background: Ghana over the years strived to improve contraceptive services for young people through various policies and programmes. Despite these efforts, contraceptives use among young people remain a challenge. In this study, contraceptive use among basic school pupils in a Ghanaian municipality was explored to inform policy and programme decisions.Methods: The research design was a cross-sectional and mixed-method survey involving four hundred and twenty-seven (427) respondents randomly selected from four hundred and eleven (411) basic schools (102 from private and 309 from public basic schools) within Effutu Municipality of GhanaResults: Basic school pupils in Ghana are generally sexually active but have high unmet needs for modern contraception due to socio-cultural barriers, stigma, and misconceptions. Awareness and use are however more prevalent among Junior High School pupils compared to those at the primary levels. Pupils who received contraceptive education from parents/guardians were, however, more likely to use modern contraceptives consistently than their counterparts who do not.Conclusions: Because young people in basic schools are becoming sexually active, there is a need for formalized contraceptive education in the basic schools for correct information and education.