bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bipolar Disruption of the Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament of the Elbow
Authors: Rellán Ignacio , Nicholson Luke Thomas , Ruch David S.
Published: June 2020

Case:

The lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) is one of the primary stabilizers of the elbow. Disruption typically occurs from the humeral origin and may be because of an elbow dislocation or fracture/dislocation. If not identified and properly managed, posterolateral rotatory instability may result from LUCL insufficiency. We describe the case of a patient with bipolar LUCL disruption consisting of an avulsion fracture of the crista supinatoris and a soft-tissue avulsion from the lateral epicondyle.

Conclusion:

Bipolar disruption of the LUCL is a previously unreported injury pattern that may lead to posterolateral instability if not identified and treated.
Defragmenting the Health Care System in Mexico: Universal Access for Obstetric Emergencies
Authors: Ramírez-Rojas María G. , Freyermuth-Enciso María G. , Duarte-Gómez María B.
Published: June 2020

Background and Objectives:

This article aims to analyze how the needs of Mexican women requiring emergency obstetric care (EmOC) can be fully met through initiatives such as the General Agreement on Inter-Institutional Collaboration for Emergency Obstetric Care (the Agreement). We compared EmOC-accredited facilities operating under the Agreement with facilities outside the Agreement which, although not accredited, provide their affiliates with EmOC services. Also, to determine whether Mexico could provide five EmOC facilities as proposed by the United Nations (UN), United Nations Population Fund (UNFA), and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

Methods:

Based on an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional design, we analyzed the Agreement inter-institutional strategy within four different scenarios in order to verify whether Mexico was in compliance with UN recommendations on EmOC availability, namely,: five facilities, with at least one offering comprehensive services, per 500,000 inhabitants.

Results:

Taking into account all facilities in the Mexican health care system, we found that Mexico offered 75% of the required facilities and was therefore 25% short of compliance. According to data on hospital discharges, 734,438 cases of obstetric emergencies (OEs) were registered in Mexico in 2013, the vast majority of which were assisted by facilities unaccredited for that function. Meanwhile, the 466 accredited facilities, all operating under the Agreement, served a negligible proportion (0.07%) of these patients.

Conclusion and Implications for Translation:

The Agreement would undoubtedly reach its potential as a vehicle for universal EmOC coverage were its field of action not restricted to such a small number of services for women. The Mexican health care system is faced with the double challenge of increasing institutional coverage and upgrading installed EmOC infrastructure.
Utilização de Veículos Aéreos Não Tripulado no Monitoramento da Dinâmica Sedimentar de Praias Expostas
Authors: Gaya João , Córdova Júnior Luiz , Santos Marcos , Alves Thiago
Published: June 2020

O uso de veículos aéreos não tripulados (VANT), popularmente conhecidos por drones, têm sido utilizados com frequência em diversos setores, como segurança pública, fiscalização ambiental, pesquisa, agricultura e no monitoramento de ambientes naturais diversos. O monitoramento da dinâmica sedimentar de duas porções distintas da Praia de Navegantes (SC), Brasil – a porção Sul, em processo de recuperação há dez anos, e um trecho da porção Norte, Praia do Gravatá, em avançado processo de degradação – foi realizado entre os meses de abril e julho de 2019 com a utilização de um VANT. Foram realizados seis sobrevoos em cada um dos locais estudados. A aerofotogrametria desses locais foi realizada a uma altura pré-definida de 100 metros, tendo sido registrada por meio de memorial de processamento com a sobreposição lateral de 65% e frontal de 75% entre as imagens obtidas. As imagens de cada levantamento foram tratadas no software Agisoft PhotoScan com aplicação de pontos de apoio materializados em solo georreferenciados com emprego de aparelho GPS/GNSS, marca Geomax, Modelo Zenith 25, na qual os mesmos (pontos) foram pós-processados com base na Rede Brasileira de Monitoramento Contínuo (RBMC) do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Foram geradas ortofotos georreferenciadas, imagens 3D com geração de curvas de nível com intervalos de 0,25 m, o que possibilitou calcular os volumes de sedimentos erodidos ou acrescidos. O método proposto demanda ainda de alguns ajustes e aprimoramento, mas demonstrou grande eficácia no monitoramento do processo de dinâmica sedimentar nos locais estudados.
Changes in Practitioners’ Attitudes, Perceived Training Needs and Self-Efficacy over the Implementation Process of an Evidence-Based Parenting Program
Authors: Côté Marie-Kim , Gagné Marie-Hélène
Published: June 2020

Background: Evidence-based family support programs such as the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program have the potential to enhance the well-being of children and families. However, they cannot achieve their expected outcomes if insufficient attention is paid to the implementation process. It has been demonstrated that practitioners’ attitudes towards evidence-based programs (EBPs), perceived training needs and self-efficacy for working with parents influence implementation outcomes (e.g., program acceptability, adoption, adherence and sustainability). At the same time, the experience of being involved in the implementation process of an EBP could enhance practitioners’ perceptions of the initiative. This study aimed to assess changes in practitioner’s attitudes, perceived training needs and self-efficacy over a two-year EBP implementation process, in interaction with their appraisal of their organization’s capacity to implement the EPBMethods: In the province of Quebec, Canada, Triple P was implemented and evaluated in two communities. Ninety-nine practitioners from various organizations completed questionnaires shortly before their training in Triple P and two years later. Results: Findings show that practitioners who displayed more initial skepticism regarding their organization’s capacity to implement the program reported greater improvements in attitudes over time, while practitioners who showed more optimism at baseline reported a greater decrease in their perceived training needs. Practitioners’ self-efficacy increased moderately regardless of perceived organizational capacity. Conclusions: These results are encouraging given that more positive perceptions of EBPs could foster the systematic use of these programs in communities, for the potential benefit of a greater number of families.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of multiple C2 domains and transmembrane region proteins in Gossypium hirsutum
Authors: Hao Pengbo , Wang Hantao , Ma Liang , Wu Aimin , Chen Pengyun , Cheng Shuaishuai , Wei Hengling , Yu Shuxun
Published: June 2020

Background: Multiple C2 domains and transmembrane region proteins ( MCTPs ) may act as transport mediators of other regulators. Although increased number of MCTPs in higher plants implies their diverse and specific functions in plant growth and development, only a few plant MCTPs have been studied and no study on the MCTPs in cotton has been reported. Results: In this study, we identified 31 MCTPs in G. hirsutum , which were classified into five subfamilies according to the phylogenetic analysis. GhMCTPs from subfamily V exhibited pIs less than 7, whereas GhMCTPs from subfamily I, II, III and IV exhibited pIs more than 7.5, implying their distinct biological functions. In addition, GhMCTPs within subfamily III, IV and V exhibited more diverse physicochemical properties, domain architectures and expression patterns than GhMCTPs within subfamily I and II, suggesting that GhMCTPs within subfamily III, IV and V diverged to perform more diverse and specific functions. Analyses of conserved motifs and pIs indicated that the N-terminus was more divergent than the C-terminus and GhMCTPs’ functional divergence might be mainly contributed by the N-terminus. Furthermore, yeast two-hybrid assay indicated that the N-terminus was responsible to interact with target proteins. Phylogenetic analysis classified multiple N-terminal C2 domains into four subclades, suggesting that these C2 domains performed different molecular functions in mediating the transport of target proteins. Conclusions: Our systematic characterization of MCTPs in G. hirsutum will provide helpful information to further research GhMCTPs’ molecular roles in mediating other regulators’ transport to coordinate growth and development of various cotton tissues.
Further identification of a 140bp sequence from amid intron 9 of human FMR1 gene as a new exon
Authors: Yang Wen-jing , Yan Ai-zhen , Xu Yong-jun , Guo Xiao-yan , Fu Xian-guo , Li Dan , Liao Juan , Zhang Duo , Lan Fenghua
Published: June 2020

Background: the disease gene of fragile X syndrome, FMR1 gene, encodes fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). The alternative splicing (AS) of FMR1 can affect the structure and function of FMRP. However, the biological functions of alternatively spliced isoforms remain elusive. In a previous study, we identified a new 140 bp exon from the intron 9 of human FMR1 gene. In this study, we further examined the biological functions of this new exon and its underlying signaling pathways. Results: qRT-PCR results showed that this novel exon is commonly expressed in the peripheral blood of normal individuals. Comparative genomics showed that sequences paralogous to the 140 bp sequence only exist in the genomes of primates. To explore the biological functions of the new transcript, we constructed recombinant eukaryotic expression vectors and lentiviral overexpression vectors. Results showed that the spliced transcript encoded a truncated protein which was expressed mainly in the cell nucleus. Additionally, several genes, including the BEX1 gene involved in mGluR-LTP or mGluR-LTD signaling pathways were significantly influenced when the truncated FMRP was overexpressed. Conclusions: our work identified a new exon from amid intron 9 of human FMR1 gene with wide expression in normal healthy individuals, which emphasizes the notion that the AS of FMR1 gene is complex and may in a large part account for the multiple functions of FMRP.
Association of 5p15.2 and 15q14 with High Myopia in Tujia and Miao Chinese Populations
Authors: Wang Junwen , Liu Fang , Song Xiusheng , Li Tuo
Published: June 2020

Background: The polymorphisms rs6885224 and rs634990 have been reported to be associated with high myopia in many populations. As there is still no report on whether these two SNPs are associated with myopia in the Tujia and Miao minority areas of China, we conducted a replication study to evaluate the association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the regions 5p15.2 and 15q14 with high myopia in Tujia and Miao Chinese populations.Methods: We performed a comprehensive meta-analysis of 5831 cases and 7055 controls to assess whether rs6885224 in the 5p15.2 region and rs634990 in the 15q14 region are associated with high myopia. Our replication study enrolled 804 individuals. Genomic DNA was extracted from venous leukocytes, and these two SNPs were genotyped by Sanger sequencing. Allele and genotype frequencies were analysed using χ2 tests, and ORs and 95% CIs were calculated.Results: According to the results of the meta-analysis, rs6885224 in the CTNND2 gene showed no association with myopia [p=0.222, OR=1.154, 95% CI (0.917-1.452)]. Conversely, rs634990 in the 15q14 region did exhibit a significant correlation with myopia [p=7.270´10-7, OR=0.817, 95% CI (0.754-0.885)]. In our replication study, no association with high myopia in the Tujia and Miao populations was found for rs634990 or rs6885224. The following were obtained by allele frequency analysis: rs6885224, p=0.175, OR=0.845, and 95% CI=0.662-1.078; rs634990, p=0.087, OR=0.84, and the 95% CI=0.687-1.026. Genotype frequency analysis yielded p=0.376 for rs6885224 and p=0.243 for rs634990.Conclusions: Our meta-analysis results show that rs634990 was significantly associated with myopia but that rs6885224 was not. Nevertheless, in our replication study, these two SNPs showed no association with myopia in the Tujia and Miao Chinese populations. This is the first report involving Tujia and Miao ethnic groups from Enshi minority areas. However, the sample size needs to be expanded and more stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria need to be formulated to verify the findings.
Quitting the quitline: a qualitative study of patient experience of electronic referrals to quitlines
Authors: Albert Elizabeth L , Rose Jeanmarie C , Gill India J , Flocke Susan A
Published: June 2020

Background: The use of electronic referrals (eReferrals) to state quitlines (QLs) for tobacco-using patients is a promising approach for addressing smoking cessation on a large scale. However, QL contact, enrollment, and completion rates are low. The purpose of this study was to examine the eReferral to QL process from the patient’s perspective in order to inform strategies for improving QL engagement. Methods: We conducted interviews with 55 patients who agreed to an eReferral at a primary care visit to 1 of 8 safety-net community health centers in Cuyahoga County, Ohio (September 2017-August 2018). Interviews were designed to explore the experiences of three subgroups of patients who subsequently: 1) declined participation in the QL; 2) were unreachable by the QL; or 3) were enrolled in or had completed the QL program. Analysis was guided by a phenomenological approach designed to identify emergent themes. Results: Reasons for QL program non-completion included changing life circumstances and events making cessation unviable; misunderstandings about the QL; discomfort with telephonic counseling; perceived lack of time for counseling; cell phone barriers; and having already quit smoking. We found that some individuals who were no longer engaged with the QL still desired continued support from the QL.Conclusions: Participants intentionally and unintentionally disengage from the QL for a wide variety of reasons, several of which are mediated by low socioeconomic status. Integrating QL care with community-based resources that address these mediators could be a promising strategy.
Applying an intersectionality lens to the Theoretical Domains Framework: a tool for thinking about how intersecting social identities and structures of power influence behaviour
Authors: Etherington Nicole , Rodrigues Isabel Braganca , Giangregorio Lora , Graham Ian D. , Hoens Alison M , Kasperavicius Danielle , Kelly Christine , Moore Julia E. , Ponzano Matteo , Presseau Justin , Sibley Kathryn M. , Straus Sharon
Published: June 2020

Background

A key component of the implementation process is identifying potential barriers and facilitators that need to be addressed. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) is one of the most commonly used frameworks for this purpose. When applying the TDF, it is critical to understand the context in which behaviours occur. Intersectionality, which accounts for the interface between social identity factors (e.g. age, gender) and structures of power (e.g. ageism, sexism), offers a novel approach to understanding how context shapes individual decision-making and behaviour. We aimed to develop a tool to be used alongside applications of the TDF to incorporate an intersectionality lens when identifying implementation barriers and enablers.

Methods

An interdisciplinary Framework Committee (n=17) prioritized the TDF as one of three models, theories, and frameworks (MTFs) to enhance with an intersectional lens through a modified Delphi approach. In collaboration with the wider Framework Committee, a subgroup considered all 14 TDF domains and iteratively developed recommendations for incorporating intersectionality considerations within the and its domains TDF. An iterative approach aimed at building consensus was used to finalize recommendations.

Results

Consensus on how to apply an intersectionality lens to the TDF was achieved after 12 rounds of revision. Two overarching considerations for using the intersectionality-enhanced TDF were developed by the group as well as two to four prompts for each TDF domain to guide interview topic guides. Considerations and prompts were designed to assist users to reflect on how individual identities and structures of power may play a role in barriers and facilitators to behaviour change and subsequent intervention implementation.

Conclusions

Through an expert-consensus approach, we developed a tool for applying an intersectionality lens alongside the TDF. Considering the role of intersecting social factors when identifying barriers and facilitators to implementing research evidence may result in more targeted and effective interventions that better reflect the realities of those involved.
Impact of sample size on the stability of risk scores from clinical prediction models: a case study in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Pate Alexander , Emsley Richard , Sperrin Matthew , Martin Glen P. , Staa Tjeerd van
Published: June 2020

Background Stability of risk estimates from prediction models may be highly dependent on the sample size of the dataset available for model derivation. In this paper, we evaluate the stability of cardiovascular disease risk scores for individual patients when using different sample sizes for model derivation; such sample sizes include those similar to models recommended in national guidelines, and those based on recently published sample size formula for prediction models.Methods We mimicked the process of sampling N patients from a population to develop a risk prediction model by sampling patients from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink. A cardiovascular disease risk prediction model was developed on this sample and used to generate risk scores for an independent cohort of patients. This process was repeated 1000 times, giving a distribution of risks for each patient. N = 100 000, 50 000, 10 000 and Nmin (derived from sample size formula) were considered. The 5 – 95 percentile range of risks across these models was used to evaluate instability. Patients were grouped by a risk derived from a model developed on the entire population (population derived risk) to summarise results.Results For a sample size of 100 000, the median 5 – 95 percentile range of risks for patients across the 1000 models was 0.77%, 1.60%, 2.42% and 3.22% for patients with population derived risks of 4-5%, 9-10%, 14-15% and 19-20% respectively, for N = 10 000 it was 2.49%, 5.23%, 7.92% and 10.59%, and for N using the formula derived sample size, it was 6.79%, 14.41%, 21.89% and 29.21%. Restricting this analysis to models with high discrimination, good calibration or small mean absolute prediction error reduced the percentile range, but high levels of instability remained.Conclusions Widely used cardiovascular disease risk prediction models suffer from high levels of instability induced by sampling variation. Many models will also suffer from overfitting (a closely linked concept), but at acceptable levels of overfitting there may still be high levels of instability in individual risk. Stability of risk estimates should be a criterion when determining the minimum sample size to develop models.
Molecular mapping of a novel lesion mimic gene (lm4) associated with enhanced resistance to stripe rust in bread wheat
Authors: Liu Rong , Lu Jing , Zheng Shigang , Zhou Min , Du Mei , Zhang Chihong , Wang Minxiu , Li Yunfang , Xing Jiayi , Wu Yu , Zhang Lei
Published: June 2020

Background: Lesion mimics (LM) is a disease-like symptom randomly spread on plant green leaves without any pathogens. Previous study has found that LM was related to enhanced resistance to a broad spectrum of diverse pathogen races and programmed cell death (PCD). Stripe rust is a globally epidemic fungal disease that can significantly reduce the quality and yield of crops. The development of resistance cultivars is an economically and environmentally way for enhancing adaptability and yield stability of crops instead of fungicides application. In this study, a novel LM gene with Pst resistance was identified and mapped with developing molecular markers for marker assisted selection (MAS) in wheat breeding.Results: In this study, a novel LM gene named as lm4 was identified by using a Yanzhan1/Neixiang188 RILs population, which is closely linked to SSR markers Xgwm210 and Xgwm455 by 8.06 cM intervals. Then the genetic distance of the lm4 was shortened and flanked by SSR markers with 0.51cM and 0.77cM interval. Two SSR markers lm4_01_cib and lm4_02_cib were developed based on Chinese Spring genome database and wheat-660K SNP result, which can be used to conduct MAS of LM in wheat. And the results also showed that lm4 has significantly improved the resistance of stripe rust in wheat.Conclusions: Therefore, lm4 is associated with stripe rust resistance which may provide a theoretical support for future crop disease-resistant breeding and for understanding the plant apoptosis mechanism.
Association Between Wasting and Food Insecurity Among Children Under Five Years: Findings from Nepal Demographic Health Survey 2016
Authors: Nepali Sajama , Simkhada Padam , Davies Ian Glyyn
Published: June 2020

Background: Wasting is a consequence of food insecurity, poor access to appropriate, inadequate caring and feeding practices. The present study assessed association between wasting and household food insecurity among under five years children, along with other socio-demographics characteristics.Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2016. The survey is cross sectional in design with use of standardized tools. The sampling frame used is an updated version of the frame from the 2011 National Population and Housing Census. The participants were children under five years of age and total children analyzed were 2414. Logistic regression was carried out to identify the odds of being wasted for children belonging to different levels of food insecure households using odds ratio and 95 percent confidence interval. Results: The prevalence of wasting increased with the level of food insecurity, from mild (9.4%) to moderate (10.8%) and to severe (11.3%). The highest proportions of wasted children were in Province 2 (14.3%), from rural areas (10.1%), born to mothers with no education (12.4%) and from a richer quintile (11.3%). Children belonging to severe food insecure households had 1.36 (95% CI 0.72-2.57) adjusted odds of being wasted and those belonging to mild food insecure and moderately food insecure households have 1.13 (95%CI 0.65-1.97) and 1.36 (95%CI 0.72-2.57) odds of being wasted respectively. Province 1 (AOR 2.06, 95%CI 1.01-4.19) and Province 2 (AOR 2.45, 95%CI 1.22-4.95) were significantly associated with wasting.Conclusion: Considering the increment in childhood wasting as per level of food insecurity, an integrated intervention should be developed in Nepal that addresses improving knowledge and behavior of community people on diet and nutrition as well as reducing the problem of food insecurity through agricultural interventions.
Prevalence of dyslipidemia and associated risk factors among adults aged ≥ 35 years in northern China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xi Yunfeng , Niu Liwei , Cao Ning , Bao Han , Xu Xiaoqian , Zhu Hao , Yan Tao , Zhang Nan , Qiao Liying , Han Ke , Hang Gai , Wang Wenrui , Zhang Xingguang
Published: June 2020

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevalence has increased continuously over the last 30 years in China. Dyslipidemia is an important modifiable risk factor in CVD. We aimed to collect current data on the prevalence of dyslipidemia in northern China and explore potential influencing factors.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we selected a representative sample of 65,128 participants aged ≥35 years in Inner Mongolia during 2015–2017. All participants completed a questionnaire and were examined for risk factors. Dyslipidemia was defined according to 2016 Chinese guidelines for adults. The associated factors for dyslipidemia were estimated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results: The age-standardized prevalence of dyslipidemia was 31.2% overall, with 4.3%, 2.4%, 14.7%, and 17.4% for high total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), respectively. The dyslipidemia prevalence was significantly higher in men than women (37.9% vs. 27.5%, P<0.001), but postmenopausal women had a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia components (except low HDL-C). Compared with Han participants, Mongol participants had a lower prevalence of dyslipidemia (29.1% vs. 31.4%, P<0.001). Male sex, living in urban areas, Han ethnicity, smoking, obesity, central obesity, hypertension, and diabetes were all positively correlated with dyslipidemia; alcohol consumption was linked to lower risk of dyslipidemia.Conclusions: Our study revealed that dyslipidemia is a health problem in northern China. Greater efforts to prevent and manage dyslipidemia, especially in men under age 55 years, postmenopausal women, and people with unhealthy lifestyles or chronic diseases.
Differential Influences of Social Support on App Use for Diabetes Self-Management – a Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Brew-Sam Nicola , Chib Arul , Rossmann Constanze
Published: June 2020

Background Recent studies increasingly examine social support for diabetes self-management delivered via mHealth. In contrast to previous studies examining social support as an outcome of technology use, or technology as a means for delivering social support, this paper argues that social support has an impact on the use of diabetes mHealth apps. Specifically, we postulate differences between the impact of healthcare professional versus non-professional (family/friends) support on mobile app use for diabetes self-management.Methods This research employed a triangulation of methods including exploratory semi-structured face-to-face interviews (N= 21, Study 1) and an online survey (N= 65, Study 2) with adult type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients. Thematic analysis (Study 1) was used to explore the relevance of social support (by professionals versus non-professionals) for diabetes app use. Binary logistic regression (Study 2) was applied to compare healthcare decision-making, healthcare-patient communication, and the support by the personal patient network as predictors of diabetes app use, complemented by other predictors from self-management and technology adoption theory.Results The interviews (Study 1) demonstrated that (technology-supported) shared decision-making and supportive communication by healthcare professionals depended on their medical specialty. The personal patient network was perceived as either facilitating or hindering the use of mHealth for self-management. Binary logistic regression (Study 2) showed that the physician specialty significantly predicted the use of diabetes apps, with supervision by diabetes specialists increasing the likelihood of app use (as opposed to general practitioners). Additionally, specialist care positively related to a higher chance of shared decision-making and better physician-patient communication. The support by the personal patient network predicted diabetes app use in the opposite direction, with less family/friend support increasing the likelihood of app use.Conclusion The results emphasize the relevance of support by healthcare professionals and by the patient network for diabetes app use and disclose differences from the existing literatureThe use of diabetes apps may increase in the absence of social support by family or friends (e.g., compensation for lack of support), and that use of diabetes apps may decrease when such support is high (e.g., no perceived need to use technology).
The association between serotonin-related gene polymorphisms and susceptibility and early sertraline response in patients with panic disorder
Authors: Zou Zhili , Huang Yulan , Wang Jinyu , Min Wenjiao , Zhou Bo
Published: June 2020

Background: A number of studies have shown that genetic factor plays an importantrole in etiology of panic disorder (PD). The aim of the present study was to examine the association of serotonin-related gene polymorphisms with PD risk. Then, we analyzed the correlation between these gene polymorphisms and response to sertraline drug.Methods: 233 patients with PD and 231 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS) were administered to all subjects, and all patients in the study were also assessed after 4 weeks of treatment. The SLC6A4(rs140701, rs3813034, 5-HTTLPR and STin2), 5-HTR1A rs6295, 5-HTR2A rs6313 and COMT rs4680 gene polymorphisms were genotyped and assessed for the potential association.Results: The allelic model showed that the SLC6A4 rs140701 polymorphism variant was significantly associated with increased risk of PD (OR = 0.624, 95 % CI 0.450-0.864, p<0.05), and a significant result was found in the dominant model (OR = 0.546; 95% CI, 0.371-0.804, p<0.05). There was a significant difference in allele and genotype frequency between responders and nonresponders in the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism (OR = 0.205, 95 % CI 0.128-0.328; OR = 0.249, 95 % CI 0.155-0.401, both p <0.001), indicating the PD patients with S-allele had a poorer response to sertraline than L-allele carriers.Conclusions: The present study suggests that the SLC6A4 rs140701 polymorphism variant may be associated with susceptibility to PD, and 5-HTTLPR polymorphism may be a predictor of response to sertraline in the treatment of PD.
Genome-wide detection and sequence conservation analysis of long non-coding RNA during hair follicle cycle of yak
Authors: Zhang Xiaolan , Bao Qi , Jia Congjun , Li Chen , Chang Yongfang , Wu Xiaoyun , Liang Chunnian , Bao Pengjia , Yan Ping
Published: June 2020

Background: Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) as an important regulator has been demonstrated playing an indispensable role in the biological process of hair follicles (HFs) growth. However, their function and expression profile in the HFs cycle of yak are yet unknown. Only a few functional lncRNAs have been identified, partly due to the low sequence conservation and lack of identified conserved properties in lncRNAs. Here, lncRNA-seq was employed to detect the expression profile of lncRNAs during the HFs cycle of yak, and the sequence conservation of two datasets between yak and cashmere goat during the HFs cycle was analyzed.

Results: A total of 2884 lncRNAs were identified in 5 phases (Jan., Mar., Jun., Aug., and Oct.) during the HFs cycle of yak. Then, differential expression analysis between 3 phases (Jan., Mar., and Oct.) was performed, revealing that 198 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) were obtained in the Oct.-vs-Jan. group, 280 DELs were obtained in the Jan.-vs-Mar. group, and 340 DELs were obtained in Mar.-vs-Oct. group. Subsequently, the nearest genes of lncRNAs were searched as the potential target genes and used to explore the function of DELs by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. Several critical pathways involved in HFs development such as Wnt signaling pathway, VEGF signaling pathway, and Signaling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells, were enriched. To further screen key lncRNAs influencing the HFs cycle, 24 DELs with differ degree of sequence conservation were obtained via a comparative analysis of partial DELs with previously published lncRNA-seq data of cashmere goat in the HFs cycle using NCBI BLAST-2.9.0+, and 3 DELs of them were randomly selected for further detailed analysis of the sequence conservation properties.

Conclusions: This study revealed the expression pattern and potential function of lncRNAs during HFs cycle of yak, which would expand the knowledge about the role of lncRNAs in the HFs cycle. The findings related to sequence conservation properties of lncRNAs in the HFs cycle between the two species may provide valuable insights into the study of lncRNA functionality and mechanism.

Keywords: Hair follicle cycling, lncRNA, NCBI blast-2.9.0+, Yak
The effect of aging on the biological and immunological characteristics of periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Zhang Bowen , Wang Hong , Zhao Xiaolu , Zhang Zijie , Ding Gang , Wei Fulan
Published: June 2020

Background: Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) have many applications in the field of cytotherapy, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. However, the effect of age on the biological characteristics and immunoregulation of PDLSCs remains unclear.Methods: In this study, we compared PDLSCs isolated from young and elderly individuals. PDLSCs proliferation was analyzed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining, and apoptosis level was detected by Annexin V-PE/7-ADD staining. PDLSCs osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation potentials were assessed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alizarin Red, Oil Red O staining and related quantitative analysis. PDLSCs immunoregulatory capacity was determined by EdU and Annexin V-PE/7-ADD staining. To explore its underlying mechanism, microarray, quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and western blot analyses were performed to detect differentially expressed genes and proteins in PDLSCs. Results: Our results demonstrated that with aging, the proliferation and osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation potential of PDLSCs decreased, whereas apoptosis of PDLSCs increased. Moreover, the immunosuppressive ability of PDLSCs decreased with aging. Compared with PDLSCs from young subjects, analysis of mRNA expression revealed an upregulation of CCND3 and RC3H2 , and a downregulation of Runx2, ALP, COL1A1, PPARγ2, CXCL12, FKBP1A, FKBP1B, NCSTN, P2RX7, PPP3CB, RIPK2, SLC11A1, and TP53 in those from elderly individuals. Furthermore, protein expression levels of Runx2, ALP, COL1A1, and PPARγ2 in the elderly group was decreased, whereas that of CCND3 increased. Conclusions: Taken together, aging influences biological and immunological characteristics of PDLSCs, and thus it is more appropriate to utilized PDLSCs from young individuals for tissue regeneration, post-aging treatment, and allotransplantation.
Impact of long-term industrial contamination on the bacterial communities in urban river sediments
Authors: zhang lei , Tu Demei , Li Xingchen , Lu Wenxuan , Li Jing
Published: June 2020

Background: The contamination of the aquatic environment of urban rivers with industrial wastewater has affected the abiotic conditions and biological activities of the trophic levels of the ecosystem, particularly sediments. However, most current research about microorganism in urban aquatic environments has focused on indicator bacteria related to feces and organic pollution. Meanwhile, they ignored the interactions among microorganisms. To deeply understand the impact of industrial contamination on microbial community, we study the bacterial community structure and diversity in river sediments under the influence of different types of industrial pollution by Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing technology and conduct a more detailed analysis of microbial community structure through co-occurrence networks.Results: Although the composition of dominant bacterial phyla in different sediment samples was similar, their relative abundance was different. These dominant bacterial phyla showed significant differences in different types of industrial contaminated sediment. In addition, redundancy analysis indicated that the structure of the bacterial community in river sediments was influenced by a variety of environmental factors. TN, TP, TOC and metals (Cu, Zn and Cd) were the most important driving factors that determined the bacterial community in urban river sediments (P <0.01). According to PICRUSt analysis, the bacterial communities in different locations had similar overall functional profiles. It is worth noting that the 15 functional genes related to xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism were the most abundant in the same location. The non-random assembly patterns of bacterial composition in different types of industrially polluted sediments were determined by a co-occurrence network. Environmental conditions resulting from different industrial pollutants may play an important role in determining their co-occurrence patterns of these bacterial taxa. Among them, the bacterial taxa involved in carbon and nitrogen cycles in module I were relatively abundant, and the bacterial taxa in module II were involved in the repair of metal pollution.Conclusions: Our data indicate that long-term potential interactions between different types of industrial pollution and taxa collectively affect the structure of the bacterial community in urban river sediments.
Corneal biomechanical properties in myopic eyes evaluated via Scheimpflug imaging
Authors: Yu A-Yong , Shao Hui , Pan Anpeng , Wang Qinmei , Huang Zixu , Song Benhao , McAlinden Colm , Huang Jinhai , Chen Sisi
Published: June 2020

Background: To investigate the biomechanical properties of the cornea in myopic eyes using corneal visualization scheimpflug technology (Corvis ST). The relationships between the biomechanical properties of the cornea and the degree of myopia were also investigated.Methods: 265 eyes of 265 subjects were included. Based on spherical equivalent (SE) in diopters (D), participants were divided into four groups: low myopia/control (SE: -0.50 to -3.00D), moderate myopia (SE: -3.00 to -6.00D), high myopia (SE: -6.00 to -10.00D) and severe myopia (SE greater than -10.00D). Axial length (AL), anterior segment parameters, and corneal biomechanical properties were obtained with the Lenstar LS900, Pentacam HR and Corvis ST, respectively.Results: Mean (±SD) SE was -7.29±4.31D (range: -0.63 to -25.75D). Mean AL was 26.31±1.82mm (range: 21.87 to 31.94mm). Significant differences were detected within the four groups in terms of six corneal biomechanical parameters: deformation amplitude (DA), time from start until second applanation (A2-time), length of flattened cornea at the second applanation (A2-length), corneal velocity during the first and second applanation (A2-velocity), time from start to highest concavity (HC-time), and central curvature at highest concavity (HC radius). AL was positively associated with DA whereas negatively associated with A1-velocity and A2-length. SE was positively associated with A2-time, HC-time and A2-velocity, whereas negatively associated with DA. IOP was positively associated with four corneal biomechanical parameters and negatively associated with three parameters.Conclusions: Eyes with severe myopia showed greater DA, lesser A2 time, HC time, and faster A2-velocity compared to low to high myopia. This suggests the cornea becomes weaker and more deformable with elongation of axial length with corresponding increases in myopia. DA, A2-time and A2-velocity could be useful corneal biomechanical indicators in patients with myopia.
Learning curve of digital intraoral scanning – an in vivo study
Authors: Róth Ivett , Czigola Alexandra , Joós-Kovács Gellért Levente , Dalos Magdolna , Hermann Péter , Borbély Judit
Published: June 2020

Background: The spread of digital technology in dentistry poses new challenges and goals for dentists. The aim of the present in vivo study was to determine the learning curve of intraoral scanning described by (1) scanning time and (2) image number (count of images made by intraoral scanner during scanning process). Methods: Ten dental students of Semmelweis University, took part in the study. Dental students took digital study impressions using 3Shape Trios 3® (3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark) intraoral scanning device. Each student took 10 digital impressions on volunteers (for standardization the first and the last volunteers was the same for each student). The inclusion criteria of volunteers were full dentition (except missing third molar) and no prosthetic- restorative treatment. Digital impression taking was preceded by a lecture consisting of two parts: theoretical education and practical training. Digital impressions were taken of the upper and lower arches, and the bite was recorded according to the manufacturer's instructions. Total scanning time and image number of intraoral scanning were recorded. Results: The difference of scanning time between the first and the tenth digital impressions was significant (p=0.007). The average scanning time of first impressions was 23 min 9 sec, for tenth impressions it was 15 min 28 sec. The difference between scanning time of the first and the tenth impressions was 7 min 41 sec. The average image number of the first impressions was 1964.5, for the tenth impressions it was 1468.6. The difference between number of images of the first and the tenth impressions was 495,9. The curve of image number show decreasing tendency first, then has a trough around the sixth measurement, and rises. Conclusion: Based on our results there was association between the sequential number of measurements and the outcome variables. The scanning time decreased because of the repetitive use of intraoral scanner. The image number first showed decreasing tendency and after sixth measurement it increased, there is no consistent decline in mean scanning picture. Scanning time decreased because the students move the scanning tip faster as result of practice. Shorter scanning times are accompanied by poorer coverage quality, the operator has to correct by adding extra images represented by the curve of image numbers which turning into increasing tendency after the sixth measurement. Trial registration: The permission for this study was given by the University Ethics Committee of Semmelweis University (SE TUKEB number: 61/2016).
Proposal for a new therapeutic high dosage of Pidotimod in children with Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome: an interventional study.
Authors: Manti Sara , Filosco Federica , Parisi Giuseppe Fabio , Finocchiaro Giuseppe Germano , Papale Maria , Giugno Andrea , Barone Patrizia , Leonardi Salvatore
Published: June 2020

Background. Despite to PFAPA syndrome is considered a benign and self-limited condition in childhood its impact on patients and families can be remarkable in many cases. Currently, the therapeutic options for managing are non-specific and no consensus exists about the best treatment to use. Pidotimod has been suggested as a new potential treatment in PFAPA syndrome for its immunodulatory effects. We conducted a preliminary, prospective, controlled, open, cross-over trial to assess the efficacy and the safety of Pidotimod in the treatment of children with PFAPA syndrome. Methods. 22 children with PFAPA syndrome were randomly allocated to treatment with pidotimod (with 2 vials of 400mg daily) in combination with betamethasone 0.5-1 mg on need, based on parents/caregivers' decision (group A) or betamethasone 0.5-1mg on need, based on parents/caregivers' decision (group B). Each treatment period was for 3 months (Phase 1), after that patients were switched to the other arm for other 3 months (Phase 2). Efficacy was expressed in terms of number of episodes of fever, pharyngitis, or aphthous stomatitis, as well as the additional use of betamethasone on need. Safety and tolerability of the Pidotimod were evaluated on the basis of the number and type of adverse events (AEs) recorded during the treatment.Results. Patients receiving Pidotimod and use betametasone showed a significant decrease in frequency of fevers (p=0.002); number of episodes of pharyngitis (p=0.049); aphthous stomatitis (p=0.036) as well as the betamethasone use on need (p=0.007). Overall, 19/22 (86.4%) showed benefits from Pidotimod administration. The safety profile of Pidotimod was excellent as no serious adverse events have been reported in the treated groups.Conclusions. We firstly showed that high dosage of Pidotimod could be an effective and safe to reduce the PFAPA attacks in children.
Development and Feasibility of A Tailored Habit-based Dietary Intervention Coupled With Natural Tooth Replacement On The Nutritional Status Of Older Patients
Authors: McCrum Leigh-Ann , Watson Sinead , McGowan Laura , Mcguinness Bernadette , Cardwell Chris , Clarke Mike , Woodside Jayne V , McKenna Gerry
Published: June 2020

Background: Older adults suffering partial tooth loss may need additional intervention strategies other than natural tooth replacement alone to improve their nutritional status. This study aimed to design and develop a habit-based tailored dietary intervention and to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention, in conjunction with natural tooth replacement, amongst partially dentate older adults. Methods: The design and development of the dietary intervention (Phase 1) consisted of analysis of the target population’s dietary intake and qualitative research through focus groups with community-dwelling older adults (aged 65 years and over). The dietary intervention consisted of forming three healthy dietary habits around fruits and vegetables, wholegrains and healthy proteins. Feasibility of the intervention was then tested among older adults receiving natural tooth replacement in a small non-randomised single arm study (Phase 2). The principal feasibility outcome was the usability and acceptability of the intervention which was measured using evaluation questionnaires and by conducting post-intervention semi-structured interviews. Supporting outcomes consisted of feasibility of screening procedures; recruitment strategies; and retention/ attrition rates as well as the participant’s compliance to the intervention assessed through self-monitoring tracking sheets. Results: Twenty-one older adults (mean [SD] age 72.1 [10.4].) took part in one of four focus group discussions (Phase 1). Twelve themes related to barriers (e.g oral health, appetite) and facilitators (e.g nutritional knowledge, retirement) of healthy eating guided intervention development, as did a further five themes when asked for direct intervention feedback. Nine older adult participants (mean [SD] age 72.5[9.7]) were recruited into the feasibility study (Phase 2) where eight themes were identified from feedback interview discussions. The principal outcome measures identified intervention feasibility as participants considered the intervention acceptable and useable as both the evaluation questionnaire and qualitative interview results were overwhelmingly positive. As a supporting outcome measure, strong intervention compliance was also achieved. Screening procedures were accepted but additional recruitment strategies (e.g incorporation of home study visits or recruitment via posters advertisement) may benefit future study enrolment and retention. Conclusion: Phase 1 and Phase 2 findings have allowed for an iterative, user-driven intervention to be developed and refined for a randomised control study to evaluate the intervention’s effectiveness. Trial registration: ISRCTN66118345