bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic-assisted Soave operation for the treatment of Hirschsprung disease in children: 5 years of experience
Authors: Liu Mingkun , Fang Yifan , Zhang Bing , Lin Yu , Li Oumin , Bai Jianxi , Wu Dianming
Published: March 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to summarize the clinical experience of the laparoscopic-assisted Soave operation for the treatment of Hirschsprung disease in children. Methods: In total, 186 children with Hirschsprung disease participated in this study from January 2014 to January 2019. The Soave operation was used to treat Hirschsprung disease with laparoscopic assistance. Symptoms and signs were followed up at one week, one month, three months, six months, one year and every 1-2 years after the first year. Results: All 186 children underwent laparoscopic surgery successfully, and none progressed to open surgery. During hospitalization and follow-up, there were 49 patients with complications, including 1 patient with an anastomotic leakage, 1 with an anal stricture, 5 with constipation recurrence, 5 with dirty defecation, 22 with enterocolitis, and 15 with perianal erosion. There were no complications such as abdominal bleeding, abdominal infection, ureter injury, adhesive intestinal obstruction, anastomotic stricture, incontinence. Conclusion: The laparoscopic-assisted Soave operation is a safe and feasible method for the treatment of Hirschsprung disease in children. This method has the advantages of less trauma and good cosmetic effects.
Early CT manifestations and short-term evolution of coronavirus disease-2019
Authors: Wei Wei , Hu Wen Xiao , Lv Fu Wei
Published: March 2020

Objectives: This study explored the features of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) with the aim of improving clinical diagnosis.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and CT data of 85 patients with COVID-19 who were diagnosed between January 20, 2020 and February 20, 2020. The imaging findings, clinical and laboratory data were evaluated.Results: Of the 85 patients, five had mild symptoms, 60 had moderate symptoms, and 20 had severe symptoms. Sixty-nine patients had direct or indirect contact history, while 16 patients (19%) had no obvious epidemiological history. Eighty-five patients had prominent respiratory symptoms, while 70 patients (82%) had moderate to low fever. There were no obvious lung abnormalities in CT images of patients with mild symptoms. Common chest CT manifestations in patients with moderate or severe symptoms were ground glass opacity (GGO) (16%); GGO combined with grid (39%) or consolidation (32%); and air bronchogram sign (13%). In these patients, lesions were mostly distributed in the lower lobes of the lungs, and most were located in the periphery; pleural effusion was rare. Within 3 days after onset, GGO (23%) and GGO combined with grid (45%) were the most common manifestations in CT images; GGO combined with grid (35%) and/or consolidation (41%) were the main manifestations in CT images at 5–10 days after onset.Conclusions: Common CT manifestations of COVID-19 were GGO alone and GGO combined with grid and/or consolidation. Short-term increases in ranges of lesions or consolidation areas may indicate disease aggravation.
Validation of depressive symptoms, social support, and minority stress scales among Gay, Bisexual, and other men who have with men (GBMSM) in Nigeria, Africa: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Ogunbajo Adedotun , Iwuagwu Stella , Williams Rashidi , Biello Katie B , Kahler Christopher W , Sandfort Theodorus , Mimiaga Matthew J
Published: March 2020

Background : Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in Nigeria experience social marginalization, discrimination and violence due to their sexual identity, which may negatively impact physical, mental, and sexual health outcomes. Studies on GBMSM in Africa utilize measurement scales developed largely for populations in the Global North. The validity and reliability of these instruments—to our knowledge—have never been thoroughly investigated among GBMSM in Nigeria. The aim of the current study was to determine the validity and reliability of the English versions of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-R), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and LGBT Minority Stress Measure among a large multi-state sample of GBMSM Nigeria.Methods : Between January and June 2019, we conducted cognitive interviews (N=30) and quantitative assessments (N=406) with GBMSM in Nigeria. The cognitive interviews assessed comprehension of scale items and elicited suggestions for scale modifications. The quantitative assessment was used to gather psychosocial health data and to evaluate psychometric properties and construct validity of the modified scales. We utilized confirmatory factor analysis to assess factor structure, correlation coefficients, and Cronbach’s alpha to examine scale validity and internal consistency.Results : Based on participant feedback from the cognitive interviews, we made slight modifications (i.e., culturally appropriate word substitutions) to all three scales. Results of quantitative analyses indicated good psychometric properties including high factor loadings, internal consistency and construct validity among the CESD-R, MSPSS, and LGBT Minority Stress Measure among GBMSM in Nigeria.Conclusion : These results suggests that modifying research scales to be more culturally relevant likely do not jeopardize their validity and reliability. We found that modified scales measuring depressive symptoms, perceived social support, and minority stress among GBMSM in Nigeria remained valid. More research is needed to explore whether the psychometric properties remain if the scales are translated into broken English (Pidgin) and other traditional Nigerian languages (Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa).
Usefulness of the abdominal fat area-based risk score for postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Endo Yutaka , Kitago Minoru , Shinoda Masahiro , Yagi Hiroshi , Abe Yuta , Oshima Go , Hori Shutaro , Yokose Takahiro , Abe Kodai , Takemura Ryo , Ishii Ryota , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: March 2020

BackgroundPancreatic fistulas remain a significant concern after pancreatectomy, and it is not possible to perform preoperative risk stratification for all patients. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of a unique risk model, based on the abdominal fat area (AFA) calculated by computed tomography, for pancreatic fistula development after pancreatoduodenectomy and compare it with models based on the body mass index (BMI) or abdominal thickness.Material and Methods Patient characteristics, preoperative laboratory data, radiographic findings, and their association with pancreatic fistula development after pancreaticoduodenectomy were analysed for 158 patients who underwent resection between 2011 and 2017. Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistulas (CR-POPF) were defined as Grade B or C fistulas based on the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) 2016 consensus.ResultsCR-POPF developed in 38 patients (24.2%). Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that the AFA, BMI, and intra-abdominal thickness were potential candidates for predictive models for pancreatic fistula development, small pancreatic duct diameter, diabetes mellitus development, and the pathology of non-pancreatic cancers. When comparing the three risk models (AFA-, BMI-, and intra-abdominal thickness-based), the AFA-derived risk model was superior to the BMI-based and intra-abdominal thickness-based risk stratification models (area under the curve 0.836 vs 0.824 vs 0.826).Conclusions The risk model based on AFA calculation was superior to that based on BMI or intra-abdominal thickness measurements. The model must be validated further to elucidate the efficacy of the risk scoring system in more detail.
Analysis by Next-Generation Sequencing Panel Covered 60 Genes and 17 Microsatellite Foci in Endometrial Screening Liquid-Based Cytology Specimens A Comparative Study to Tissue Specimens
Authors: Akahane Toshiaki , Kitazono Ikumi , Yanazume Shintaro , Kamio Masaki , Togami Shinichi , Sakamoto Ippei , Nohara Sachio , Yokoyama Seiya , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Hiraki Tsubasa , Suzuki Shinsuke , Ueno Shinichi , Tanimoto Akihide
Published: March 2020

Background

Liquid-based cytology (LBC) is now a widely used method for cytologic screening and diagnosis of cancers. Since the cells are fixed with alcohol-based fixatives and the specimens are stored in a liquid condition, LBC specimens are also conducive for genetic analysis.

Methods

Here, we established a small cancer gene panel including 60 genes and 17 microsatellite markers for next-generation sequencing and applied to residual LBC specimens obtained by endometrial cancer screening to compare with corresponding formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues.

Results

A total of 53 FFPE and LBC specimens (n=24) were analyzed, revealing characteristic mutations for endometrial cancer including those of PTEN, CTNNB1, PIK3CA, and PIK3R1 . Eight cases had higher scores for both tumor mutation burden (TMB) and microsatellite instability (MSI), which agree with defective mismatch repair (MMR) protein expression. Paired endometrial LBC, and biopsied and/or resected FFPE tissues from 7 cases, demonstrated almost the same mutations, TMB, and MSI profiles in all cases.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that the small cancer gene panel proved to be able to detect therapeutically actionable gene mutations in endometrial LBC and FFPE specimens and that LBC specimens obtained by endometrial cancer screening is an alternative and useful source of molecular testing.
The relationship between major dietary patterns and fertility status in Iranian men: a case- control study
Authors: Haeri Farahnaz , Ghiasvand Reza , Feizi Awat , Abargouei Amin Salehi , Marvast laleh Dehghan , Nouri Mehran , Mirzaei Masoud
Published: March 2020

Objective: Reproductive disorders are a global health problem with high prevalence in all parts of the World. Their etiology can be attributed to several factors such as psychological, social, economical and physical. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between major dietary patterns with fertility status in Iranian men in Yazd province.Methods: In this case-control study, 400 infertile men were recruited into study during their fertility investigation in Yazd Reproductive sciences Institute by diagnosis an andrologist as the case group. The control group consisted of 604 healthy men without infertility history that selected from Shahedieh cohort study, recruitment phase from 2015 to 2016 (during one year),Yazd, Iran, according to the inclusion criteria. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between dietary patterns and infertility. All data of the major dietary patterns were analyzed using SPSS V. 22 software.Results: five dietary patterns were extracted. These dietary patterns were grouped as Western, Healthy, Traditional, Fat-based and Mixed. After adjusting for age and level of education, the third tertile of the mixed Dietary Pattern had the highest odds ratio (OR = 7.2; 95% CI, 4.4-11.7) for infertility. In Model 2, the second tertile of the traditional dietary pattern had the lowest Odds ratio (OR = 0.012;95%CI, 0.006-0.023) About infertility. In model 3, Third tertile of western (OR = 6.3; 95% CI, 3.3-12.1) and mix dietary patterns (OR = 2.9; 95% CI, 1.6-5.2) had the highest odds ratio for infertility. The first tertile of each dietary pattern was considered as the reference level.Conclusions: We concluded in this study that adherence to the Western dietary pattern in model 3, Mix and fat-based pattern in model 2 was associated with high risk for infertility. On the other hand, adherence to the traditional and healthy dietary pattern had a protective effect on male infertility. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings of this study.
Forecasting Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease Cases Using a Wavelet-based SARIMA-NNAR Hybrid Model
Authors: Yu Gongchao , Feng Huifen , Feng Shuang , Zhao Jing , Xu Jing
Published: March 2020

Background: Hand-foot-and-mouth disease(HFMD) is one of the most common diseases in children, which has high morbidity. Reliable forecasting is significant for prevention and control. Recently, hybrid models have been becoming popular and wavelet analysis has been widely used. Better prediction accuracy may be achieved with wavelet-based hybrid models. Thus, our aim is to forecast number of HFMD cases with wavelet-based hybrid models.Materials and methods: We fitted a wavelet-based SARIMA(seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average)-NNAR(neural network nonlinear autoregressive) hybrid model with HFMD weekly cases from 2009 to 2016 in Zhengzhou, China. At the same time, single SARIMA model, simplex NNAR model and pure SARIMA-NNAR hybrid model were established as well for comparison and estimation.Results: The wavelet-based SARIMA-NNAR hybrid model had an excellent performance whether in fitting or in forecasting compared to other models. Its fitted and forecasting time series were approximate to the actual observed time series.Conclusions: This wavelet-based SARIMA-NNAR hybrid model that we fitted is suitable for forecasting number of HFMD cases. It will facilitate prevention and control of HFMD.
Peroxiredoxin 4 as potential fertility marker in boars
Authors: Ryu Do-Yeal , Pang Won-Ki , Rahman Md Saidur , Park Yoo-Jin , Pang Myung-Geol
Published: March 2020

Background: High levels of reactive oxygen species are toxic to spermatozoa as they induce DNA damage, which leads to male infertility. Therefore, reduction of oxidative stress using reducing agents, such as antioxidant enzymes, is required. Peroxiredoxins (Prdxs) are known to play a critical role in the regulation of male fertility as antioxidant enzymes. Although several studies have suggested a close association between Prdxs and male fertility, few studies have explored the efficacy of Prdxs to predict fertility. Therefore, the current study was designed to discover the most sensitive biomarkers among the Prdxs with six isoforms, and furthermore to determine whether Prdxs are more suitable fertility markers for boar spermatozoa compared to conventional semen analysis.Results: The mRNA levels of PRDXs and several sperm parameters were examined in spermatozoa collected from 20 boars with different litter sizes. Our study showed that there was a significant positive correlation between the litter size and the levels of PRDX 4 among all isoforms in spermatozoa. Subsequently, a regression analysis using a combination of markers was conducted to increase efficacy for fertility prediction. According to the data, PRDX4 had the highest efficacy compared to other combination models. The prediction accuracy of male fertility was further evaluated through receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, which showed that PRDX 4 could predict the litter size with a high overall accuracy of 95%.Conclusions: As fertility biomarkers, genomic markers might be more accurate for predicting male fertility compared to conventional semen analysis. Our findings indicate that PRDX 4 might be a potential biomarker for diagnosing male fertility and subsequently improving reproductive efficacy in boars.
Clinical outcomes and risk factors in critically ill children with diaphragmatic dysfunction: an prospective observational study
Authors: Xue Yang , Yang Chun-Feng , Ao Yu , Qi Ji , Jia Fei-Yong
Published: March 2020

Background: Diaphragmatic dysfunction (DD) has a great negative impact on clinical outcomes, and it is a well-recognized complication in adult patients with critical illness. However, DD is largely unexplored in the critically ill pediatric population. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with DD, and to investigate the effects of DD on clinical outcomes among critically ill children.Methods: Diaphragmatic function was assessed by diaphragm ultrasound. According to the result of diaphragmatic ultrasound, all enrolled subjects were categorized into the DD group ( n=24 ) and the non-DD group ( n=46 ). Collection of sample characteristics in both groups include age, sex, height, weight, primary diagnosis, complications, laboratory findings, medications, ventilatory time and clinical outcomes.Results: The incidence of DD in this PICU was 34.3%. The level of CRP at discharge (P=0.003) in the DD group was higher than the non-DD group, and duration of elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) (P<0.001), sedative days (P=0.008) and ventilatory treatment time (P<0.001) in the DD group was significantly longer than the non-DD group. Ventilatory treatment time and duration of elevated CRP were independently risk factors associated with DD. Patients in the DD group had longer PICU length of stay, higher rate of weaning or extubation failure and higher mortality. Conclusion: DD is associated with poorer clinical outcomes in critically ill childern, which include a longer PICU length of stay, higher rate of weaning or extubation failure and a higher mortality. The ventilatory treatment time and duration of elevated CRP are main risk factors of DD in critically ill children.
BrrICE1.1 is associated with putrescine synthesis through regulation of the arginine decarboxylase gene in freezing tolerance of turnip (Brassica rapa var. rapa)
Authors: Author) Xin Yin(Former Corresponding , Yang Yunqiang , Lv Yanqiu , Li Yan , Yang Danni , Yue Yanling , Author) Yongping Yang(New Corresponding
Published: March 2020

Background: In the agricultural areas of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, temperature varies widely from day to night during the growing season, which makes the extreme temperature become one of the limiting factors of crop yield. Turnip (Brassica rapa var. rapa) is a traditional crop of Tibet grown in the Tibet Plateau, but its molecular and metabolic mechanisms of freezing tolerance is unclear. Results: Here, based on the changes in transcriptional and metabolic levels of Tibetan turnip under freezing treatment, the expression of the arginine decarboxylase gene BrrADC2.2 exhibited an accumulative pattern in accordance with putrescine content. Moreover, we demonstrated that the transcription factor BrrICE1.1 (Inducer of CBF Expression 1) could directly bind to the BrrADC2.2 promoter, activating BrrADC2.2 to promote the accumulation of putrescine, which was verified by RNAi and overexpression analyses for both BrrADC2.2 and BrrICE1.1 using transgenic hair root. The function of putrescine in turnip was further analyzed by exogenous application putrescine and its inhibitor DL-α-(Difluoromethyl) arginine (DFMA) under freezing tolerance. In addition, the BrrICE1.1 was found to be involved in the ICE1-CBF pathway to increase the freezing stress of turnip. Conclusions: BrrICE1.1 could bind the promoter of BrrADC2.2 or CBFs to participate in freezing tolerance of turnip by transcriptomics and targeted metabolomics analyses. This study revealed the regulatory network of the freezing tolerance process in turnip and increase our understanding of the plateau crops response to extreme environments in Tibet.
Factors affecting tracheostomy in critically ill paediatric patients in Japan: a data-based analysis
Authors: Ishihara Tadashi , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND: There has been an increasing number of children surviving with high medical needs, for whom tracheostomy and/or home ventilation is part of their chronic disease management. The purpose of this study was to describe the indications, epidemiology, frequency, and associated factors for tracheostomy in critically ill paediatric patients using the data available in the Japanese Registry of Paediatric Acute Care (JaRPAC).METHODS: This multicentre epidemiologic study collected data concerning paediatric tracheostomy from the JaRPAC database. Patients were divided into two groups: those with or without tracheostomies when they were discharged from the ICU or PICU. Consecutive patients aged ≤ 16 years who did not undergo tracheostomy when admitted to ICU or PICU between April 2014 and March 2017 were included.RESULTS: A total of 23 hospitals participated, involving 6,199 paediatric patients registered in the JaRPAC database during the study period. Of the registered paediatric patients, 5,769 (95%) patients were admitted to the ICUs or PICUs without tracheostomies. Among the patients, 181 patients (3.1%) had undergone tracheostomies. There were significant differences in chronic conditions (134, 74.0% versus 3096, 55.4%, p < 0.01), chromosomal anomalies (19, 10.5% versus 326, 5.8%, p < 0.01), urgent admission (151, 83.4% versus 3093, 55.4%, p < 0.01). More tracheostomies were performed on patients who were admitted for respiratory failure (61, 33.7% versus 926, 16.1%, p < 0.01) and for post-cardiac pulmonary arrest (CPA) resuscitation (40, 22.1% versus 71, 1.1%, p < 0.01).CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report to use a large-scale registry of critically ill paediatric patients in Japan to describe the interrelated factors of tracheostomies. Chronic conditions (especially for neuromuscular disease), chromosomal anomaly, urgent admission, admission due to respiratory failure, or treatment for post-CPA resuscitation all had the possibility to be risk factors for tracheostomy.
Obesity prevention in the early years: a mapping study of national policies in England from a behavioural science perspective
Authors: Croker Helen , Russell Simon , Gireesh Aswathikutty , Bonham Aida , Hawkes Corinna , Bedford Helen , Michie Susan , Viner Russell M.
Published: March 2020

Background Evidence indicates that early life is a critical time for determining future risk of obesity. A sharper policy focus on pregnancy and early childhood would be useful to improve obesity prevention efforts. This study aimed to systematically identify and categorise the policy levers being used in England that have potential to influence early lifecourse (pregnancy and 0-5 years) and identify how these policies interface with energy balance behaviours. The objective is to identify gaps and where further policy actions could most effectively focus. Methods A behavioural science approach was taken using the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behaviour (COM-B) model and Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) framework. The key determinants of energy balance in the early years were identified from the Foresight Systems Map. Policy actions were scoped systematically from available literature, including any health or non-health policies which could impact on energy balance behaviours. The Foresight variables and policy actions were considered in terms of COM-B and the BCW to determine approaches that would be likely to be effective for obesity prevention and treatment. Existing policies were then overlaid across the map of key risk factors to identify gaps in obesity prevention and treatment provision. Results A wide range of policy actions were identified (n=115) to address obesity-relevant risk factors. The most common policy actions were educational and guidelines relating to environmental restructuring (i.e. changing the physical or social context). Scope for strengthening policies relating to the food system (e.g. the market price of food) and psychological factors contributing to obesity were identified. Policies acted via all aspects of the COM-B model, but there was scope forimproving policies to increase capability through skills acquisition and both reflective and automatic motivation. Conclusions There is substantial policy activity to address early years obesity but much is focused on education. Scope exists to strengthen actions relating to upstream policies which act on food systems and those targeting psychological factors contributing to obesity risk.
Spatio-temporal clustering of successive earthquakes: analysis of a global CMT catalog.
Authors: Bantidi Thystere Matondo , Nishimura Takeshi
Published: March 2020

Spatio-temporal clustering of seismicity features is an interesting phenomenon that is relevant for earthquake generation process and operational earthquake forecasting. We analyze successive earthquakes that closely occur in space and time in order to clarify how large earthquakes successively occur. We use the Global Centroid Moment Tensor catalog for the period from 1976 to 2016. Shallow earthquakes with a moment magnitude, Mw , of larger than or equal to 5.0 are analyzed. We first sort all of the earthquakes in time to select a master event from the beginning. Then, we group the earthquakes that occur within a horizontal distance ( D ) and a lapse time ( Ta ) from the master event into a cluster. Next master event is selected from the catalog in order, and the same procedure is repeated. We count the number of the clusters, which represent the successive earthquakes, for different D and Ta To examine whether or not successive earthquakes randomly occur, we compare the results with simulations in which earthquakes are set to occur randomly in time but at the locations same with the estimated centroid. The results show that the cumulative numbers of clusters for the simulation more rapidly increase with the horizontal distance than those for real data at short distance ranges, and the formers approach to the latter at long distance range. The triggering distance, at which the cumulative numbers of real and simulation data merge, increases with increasing the magnitude of master event. The triggering distance becomes smaller as the lapse time increases, which implies that the seismic activity turns to become the normal condition in which the occurrence time intervals of large earthquakes obey a Poisson distribution. The triggering distance increases with being almost proportional to the 1/3 of the seismic moment of master earthquake, and the number of earthquakes occurring in the region with positive Coulomb stress change (ΔCFF) are more than 60-80% of the total number of the successive earthquakes. These results suggest that static stress change introduced by a master event is one of the triggering mechanism of successive earthquakes.
Intelligent Modularized Reconfigurable Mechanisms for Robots: Development and Experiment
Authors: Xu Wenfu , Han Liang , Wang Xin , Yuan Han , Liang Bin
Published: March 2020

With the development of intelligent flexible manufacturing, traditional industrial manipulators with a single configuration are difficult to meet a variety of tasks. Reconfigurable robots have developed rapidly which could change their configurations and end effectors for different tasks. The reconfigurable connecting mechanism (RCM) is a core component of reconfigurable robots. In this paper, we developed two types of intelligent modularized RCMs with light weight, high payload, and large tolerance. One of them is driven by shape memory alloy (SMA) and recovery spring. It is locked by steel balls and key. The other is driven by electromagnetic coil and locked by permanent magnet and key. The locking principle, mechanical system and control system of the two RCMs are detailed. Both of them meet the requirements of high precision and high payload in the industrial field. Finally, the developed RCMs are respectively integrated to a practical robot and experimented. The experiment results verified the performance of the two RCMs.
“Apple does not fall far from the tree” – subclinical atherosclerosis in children with familial hypercholesterolemia.
Authors: Podgórski Michał , Szatko Katarzyna , Stańczyk Małgorzata , Pawlak-Bratkowska Monika , Konopka Agnieszka , Starostecka Ewa , Tkaczyk Marcin , Góreczny Sebastian , Rutkowska Lena , Gach Agnieszka , Łukaszewski Maciej , Grzelak Piotr , Banach Maciej
Published: March 2020

Background

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) increases the risk of atherosclerosis in children and adults. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in young patients FH is usually subclinical but recognition of children with more pronounced changes is crucial for adjusting effective management. Thus, we aimed to use ultrasonography with two-dimensional speckle tracking (2DST) and tonometry to evaluate atherosclerotic changes in parents and their children with FH.

Methods

Applanation tonometry and carotid arteries sonography with evaluation of the intima-media complex thickness (IMCT) and application of the 2DST were performed in 20 families with FH (20 parents and 29 children). The same size control group (age and sex matched) was included. Results were compared between peers and between generations together with the correlation analysis.

Results

Adults with FH in comparison with healthy peers presented significantly more atherosclerotic plaques (9 vs. 2, p=0.0230), had significantly thicker IMC (0.84±0.19 vs. 0.56±0.06 mm, p<0.0001) and had stiffer arterial wall (for stain: 6.25±2.3 vs. 8.15±2.46, p=0.0103). In children from both groups there were no atherosclerotic plaques and IMCT did not differ significantly (0.42±0.07 vs. 0.39±0.04, p=0.1722). However, children with FH had significantly stiffer arterial wall according to sonography with 2DST (for stain: 9.22±3.4 vs. 11.93±3.11, p=0.0057) and tonometry (for the pulse wave velocity: 4.5±0.64 vs.3.96±0.62, p=0.0047). These parameters correlated with atherosclerosis surrogates in their parents (p<0.001) but were not significantly affected by presence of presumed pathogenic gene variant.

Conclusions

Children with FH presented subclinical atherosclerosis manifesting as decreased arterial wall elasticity. Degree of stiffening was associated with advancement of atherosclerosis in their parents but did not present significant association with gene variants. Sonography with application of 2DST seems to be the best candidate for comprehensive evaluation of atherosclerosis in families with FH.
CPEB3 inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition by disrupting the crosstalk between colorectal cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages via IL-6R/STAT3 signaling
Authors: Zhong Qian , Fang Yuxin , Lai Qiuhua , Wang Shanci , He Chengcheng , Li Aimin , Liu Side , Yan Qun
Published: March 2020

Background: Crosstalk between cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) mediates tumor progression in colorectal cancer (CRC). Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein 3 (CPEB3) has been proved to exhibit tumor suppressive role in CRC.Methods: The expression of CPEB3, CD86 and CD163 was determined in CRC tissues. SW480 or HCT116 cells with overexpressed CPEB3 and LoVo or RKO cells with knockdown CPEB3 were constructed. Stably transfected CRC cells were co-cultured with THP-1 macrophages to determine the malignant phenotype of CRC cells, the macrophage polarization and the secretory signals. The inhibition of CPEB3 on tumor progression and M2-like TAM polarization was confirmed in nude mice.Results: Decreased CPEB3 expression in CRC was associated with less CD86+ TAMs number and more CD163+ TAMs number. CPEB3 knockdown in CRC cells increased CD163+ TAMs number and the expression of IL1RA, IL-6, IL-4 and IL-10 in TAMs supernatants. TAMs enhanced CRC cells proliferation and invasion via IL-6, then activated the IL-6R/STAT3 pathway in CRC cells. However, CPEB3 reduced the IL-6R protein level by directly binding to IL-6R mRNA, leading to decreased phosphorylated-STAT3 expression in CRC cells. CCL2 was significantly increased in knockdown CPEB3 cells, while CCL2 antibody treatment rescued the effect of knockdown CPEB3 on promoting CD163+ TAMs polarization. Eventually, we confirmed that CPEB3 inhibits tumor progression and M2-like TAMs polarization in vivo. Conclusions: CPEB3 is involved in the crosstalk between CRC cells and TAMs by targeting IL-6R/STAT3 signaling.
Clinical decision support system RHINA in the diagnosis and treatment of acute or chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Hart Libor , Polášková Alexandra , Schalek Petr
Published: March 2020

Background: Rhinosinusitis is an inflammation of the sinonasal cavity which affects roughly one in seven people. Acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) is mostly, apart from allergic etiology, caused by a viral infection and, in some cases (0.2 - 2 %), by a bacterial superinfection. Antibiotics, indicated only in rare cases according to EPOS guidelines, are nevertheless prescribed in more than 80% of ARS cases, which increases the resistant bacterial strains in the population. Results: We have developed the clinical decision support system (CDSS) RHINA, which helps general physicians to decide whether or not to prescribe antibiotics in patients with rhinosinusitis. In a retrospective study of a total of 1,465 patients with rhinosinusitis, the CDSS RHINA presented a 90.2% consistency with the diagnosis and treatment made by the ENT specialist. Conclusion: Patients assessed with the assistance of our CDSS RHINA would decrease the over-prescription of antibiotics, which in turn would help to reduce the bacterial resistance to the most commonly prescribed antibiotics.
Analysis of the clinical risk factors of re-fracture after osteoporotic fracture
Authors: Wang Lin , Ding Guo-Zheng , Yang Min
Published: March 2020

Background To investigate the clinical risk factors of patients with osteoporotic fracture and re-fracture. Methods A total of 96 patients with osteoporotic fractures and re-fractures who were treated in the relevant department of our hospital from January 2017 to December 2018 were selected as the research objects. By comparing the basic clinical situation of these two groups Analysis to explore the main risk factors after refracture. Results Through statistical analysis of clinical data, it was found that gender, age, the time from lying down to standing, and the bone mineral density T value were all clinical risk factors for refracture. Women who lie prolonged to stand have a higher risk of re-fracture. Conclusions The risk factors of re-fracture after treatment in elderly patients with osteoporotic fractures are many and complex. Early investigation and targeted preventive measures can be of great significance to reduce the incidence of re-fractures.
A patients’ view of OA: the Global Osteoarthritis Patient Perception Survey (GOAPPS)
Authors: Vitaloni Marianna , Bemden Angie Botto-van , Sciortino Rosa , Carné Xavier , Quintero Maritza , Santos-Moreno Pedro , Espinosa Rolando , Rillo Oscar , Monfort Jordi , de Abajo Francisco , Oswald Elisabeth , Matucci Marco , du Souich Patrick , Möller Ingrid , Baures Monserrat Romera , Vinci Arlene , Scotton Deborah , Bibas Marco , Eakin Guy , Verges Josep
Published: March 2020

Background Globally, osteoarthritis (OA) is the third condition associated with disability. There is still poor treatment in OA but science holds the key to finding better treatments and a cure. It is essential to learn what’s important to patients from them to implement the most effective OA management. The OA Patients Task Force, conducted the Global OA Patient Perception Survey (GOAPPS)-the first global survey to compare the quality of life (QoL) & patient perceptions of care across countries. The goal was to collect data on OA patients' perception of OA to understand patients’ needs and expectations to improve OA management.Methods Observational, cross-sectional study by online survey data collection into three languages. Patient demographics, symptomology, OA impact on daily activity and QoL data were collected. The questionnaire comprised of 4 sections: clinical characteristics, relationship with physicians, perception of attention, treatment, information, and QoL.Results A total of 1512 surveys were filled in 7 countries. 84.2% of respondents reported pain/tenderness and 91.1% experienced limitations to physical activities. 42.3% of patients were not satisfied with their current OA treatment. 86% had comorbidities, especially hypertension, and obesity. 51.3% and 78% would like access to additional drug or additional non-drug/non-surgical treatments respectively. 51.7% considered their QoL satisfactory.Conclusions OA has a significant impact on patients’ daily activities and the desire to play an active role in managing their disease. Patients seek additional treatments stressing the need for investing in clinical research, implementing OA preventive measures and managing interventions to improve the healthcare value chain in OA.
Risk of incident gastroesophageal reﬂux disease (GERD) in patients with sleep disorders: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Cheng Yu-Hsien , Chen Pei-En , Chien Ching-Wen , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: March 2020

Background. Sleep disorders pose a serious threat to human, which may cause variety diseases. Recent reviews on the epidemiology examines that gastroesophageal reﬂux disease (GERD) have different levels of causality about asthma, chronic dry cough, sleep apnea, non-cardiac chest pain, chest tightness, chronic bronchitis. The relationship between sleep disorders and gastroesophageal reﬂux disease (GERD) has been explained in various ways, but only limited reports on the complication rates in Taiwan. The objective of this study is to evaluate the risk of incident gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in Taiwanese people with sleep disorders.Methods. We used the Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database to conduct a nationwide population-based cohort study to assess the risk of incident GERD in people with sleep disorders.Results. A total of 66133 sleep disorders patients and 264,532 non-sleep disorders controls were included. Sleep disorders was a risk factor of incident GERD (adjusted hazard ratio being 1.722, 95% CI: 1.69-1.76, p<0 .001) after controlling potential confounders including age, gender, and comorbidities.Conclusions. In conclusion, patients with sleep disorders had a signiﬁcantly higher incidence of GERD than those without sleep disorders.
Senolytic compound ABT-263 improved senescent macrophages function by inducing autophagy and protected the aged mouse from sepsis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Tang Li-hua , Lu Jia , Xu Li-ming , Cheng Bao-li , Xiong Junyu
Published: March 2020

Sepsis is a critical challenge for the elderly population as the immune function is less responsive by aging. Although cell numbers seem preserved in the elderly, macrophages present age-related function decline, which including reduced chemokines, phagocytosis, and autophagy. ABT-263, an inhibitor of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2, is reported had a senolytic effect which can selectively clear the senescent cells in vivo and rejuvenate the aged tissues.
Therefore, we treated the aged mouse with ABT-263 and used cecal slurry injection to induce sepsis to observe its effect on the survival rate of sepsis. Besides, we isolated peritoneal macrophages from the aged mouse to investigate the cell function and molecular mechanism. 3-methyladenine (3-MA), a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3K) inhibitor, and rapamycin, an autophagy-enhancer, were used to block or mimic the autophagy, respectively. EGFP-expressing E. Coli was used as a marker to evaluate the phagocytic ability of macrophages.
The results showed ABT-263 treatment improved the survival rate of sepsis in the aged mouse which related to autophagy. Additionally, It is revealed that ABT-263 induced autophagy and enhanced the phagocytic ability of the peritoneal macrophages. However, blocking the autophagy can eliminate this effect. In conclusion, ABT-263 enhanced the macrophage function by inducing autophagy, consequently, protected the aged mouse from sepsis.
Self-management in older adults: how to delineate self-management ability, self-management behavior, and self-management support?
Authors: Wynia Klaske , Veldman Karin , Spoorenberg Sophie , Lahr Maarten , Reijneveld Menno
Published: March 2020

Background: Self-management is a key element in person-centered and integrated care. It involves several related concepts, such as self-management ability, behavior, and support. These concepts are poorly delineated. The aim of this study was to examine hypothesized associations between self-management ability, behavior, and support in older adults (taking their frailty and complexity of care needs into account) and to examine underlying aspects of these concepts, if these hypotheses lacksupport.Methods: Cross-sectional data from the Embrace study, a stratified randomized controlled trial, evaluating person-centered and integrated care in Dutch community-living older adults, were used. Participants (n=537) were aged 75 and older, assigned to health-related risk profiles based on self-reported frailty and complexity of care needs. Ability was assessed with the Self-Management Ability Scale, behavior with the Partner in Health Scale for Older Adults, and support with the Patient Assessment of Integrated Elderly Care.Results: Ability and behavior were positively associated for participants with the risk profiles “Robust” and “Complex care needs” (betas are 0.38 and 0.46). Coping (an aspect of behavior) turned out to be a key element for participants with risk profiles “Robust” and “Complex care needs” (betas ranging from 0.13 to 0.45). Support was associated with aspects of behavior, varying per risk profile.Conclusion: We found no associations for self-management on the conceptual level, but the aspect coping did appear to play a major role. Improving coping strategies of older adults may be a promising way of enhancing self-management ability, and of reducing the need for self-management support.
Effects of Collagen Membrane on Bone Level and Periodontal Status of Adjacent Tooth After Third Molar Surgery
Authors: Ataol Mert , Kılınç Adnan
Published: March 2020

Background: After the surgical extraction of an impacted lower third molar, periodontal status and distal bone level of the adjacent second molar could be affected negatively. Healing type has been effected periodontal status and distal bone level of the adjacent second molar after third molar surgery. Absorbable materials have some benefits including promoting wound healing through isolation, clot and wound stabilisation, and haemostasis; enhancing primary wound coverage. The aim of this study was to compare primary and secondary healing and collagen-membrane-based primary healing after surgical removal of partially erupted impacted third molars (3Ms), evaluating the distal alveolar bone level (ABL) and periodontal status of the adjacent second molars (2Ms). Materials and Methods: Patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomised into three groups: secondary healing (n=28), primary healing (n=27) and membrane-based primary healing (n=29). Digital panoramic radiographs were obtained preoperatively (T1) and three months postoperatively (T2). The distances between the cemento-enamel junctions and the alveolar bone crests on the distal aspects of the adjacent 2Ms were measured using calibrated radiograph measurement software. The pocket depth and plaque index measurements were performed preoperatively and three months postoperatively. The periodontal plaque index (PPI) scores were registered on the distal aspects of the 2Ms, and the mean values were used. Results: Three of the applied healing types positively affected periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and periodontal index values (p<0.05). In terms of the ABL of the adjacent 2Ms, primary 3-4N/healing (p=0.001) and membrane-based primary healing (p=0.000) had superior results to secondary healing. Conclusion: Membrane usage is promising for the distal bone gain and periodontal status of the adjacent 2M.
Association of total bilirubin and indirect bilirubin content with metabolic syndrome among Kazakhs in Xinjiang
Authors: Hao Hao , Guo Heng , Ma Ru-lin , Yan Yi-zhong , Hu Yun-hua , Ma Jiao-long , Zhang Xiang-hui , Wang Xin-ping , Wang Kui , Mu La-ti , Song Yan-peng , Zhang Jing-yu , He Jia , Guo Shuxia
Published: March 2020

Background Some studies have shown that a high level of bilirubin is a protective factor against the metabolic syndrome (MS), while a high level of transaminase is a risk factor for the MS. However, the results are inconsistent, and there are few cohort studies.Methods Using an ambispective cohort study, 565 Kazakhs from Xinjiang, China were selected as the study subjects. The serum bilirubin and transaminase levels of the subjects were divided into quartiles, and their relationships with MS and its components were analyzed. The definition of metabolic syndrome was based on the Joint Interim Statement (JIS) diagnostic criteria.Results The average follow-up time for the subjects was 5.72 years. 204 subjects had MS, the cumulative incidence was 36.11%, and the incidence density was 63.10/1000 person-years. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the levels of total bilirubin (TBIL) and indirect bilirubin (IBIL) were negatively correlated with the occurrence of MS. Compared to the lowest quartile level (Q1), the hazard ratios of MS for levels of TBIL at the Q2-Q4 quartile were: 0.408 (0.266-0.626), 0.374 (0.244-0.572), and 0.328 (0.216-0.500) while IBIL at Q2-Q4 level showed an MS hazard ratio of 0.572 (0.374-0.875), 0.432 (0.283-0.659), 0.434 (0.289-0.653), all at a 95% confidence level. In addition, TBIL and IBIL levels were negatively correlated with increased blood pressure, waist circumference, and triglyceride levels, and their highest TBIL quartile risk (Q4) was 0.479, 0.484, and 0.498 times higher than the lowest quartile (Q1).Conclusion Serum TBIL and IBIL levels were negatively correlated with MS and its components (blood pressure, waist circumference and triglycerides).
First report of the sting nematode Belonolaimus longicaudatus infecting bermudagrass in Barbados
Authors: Mc Groary P. , Ye W. , Nangle E.
Published: March 2020

In 2016, “Tifdwarf” hybrid bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon (L) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt-Davy) grown on a golf green built to the United States Golf Association recommendations in Barbados started to show irregular significant chlorotic patches followed by gradual thinning and decline of turfgrass. A survey was conducted in May 2016 to determine the presence of plant-parasitic nematodes. The results revealed the presence of the plant-parasitic sting nematode Belonolaimus longicaudatus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of B. longicaudatus associated with bermudagrass in Barbados.
Characterization of Vittatidera zeaphila (Nematoda: Heteroderidae) from Indiana with molecular phylogenetic analysis of the genus
Authors: Skantar Andrea M. , Handoo Zafar A. , Kantor Mihail R. , Carta Lynn K. , Faghihi Jamal , Ferris Virginia
Published: March 2020

In the summer of 2016, a field of corn (Zea mays) in Spencer County, Indiana was observed with heavily stunted plants, and from the affected roots a large number of cysts were recovered. Soil samples were submitted to one of us (JF), who extracted the nematode cysts and sent them to the USDA-ARS, Mycology and Nematology Genetic Diversity and Biology Laboratory (MNGDBL), Beltsville, MD for morphological and molecular identification. Cysts and the recovered second-stage juveniles (J2) that were examined morphologically conformed to the measurements of Vittatidera zeaphila, the goose cyst nematode originally described from Tennessee, USA in 2010. The molecular analysis of J2 showed the sample from Spencer County matched exactly with V. zeaphila according to ribosomal DNA markers ITS, 28S, and 18S, and with mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI). The nuclear marker heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) was also analyzed for the first time from the Indiana population of V. zeaphila. Similarities to existing cyst nematode sequences are reported herein. Geographically, although the county is across the Ohio River from Kentucky, the previously reported Hickman County, Kentucky location and Indiana detection are approximately 200 miles apart. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of V. zeaphila in Indiana.
Nación, guerra y narración: la construcción del imaginario desde la negatividad necesaria de lo violento. Tres elementos para pensar a Colombia desde una obra de Fernando Soto Aparicio
Authors: Patiño Martha Jeaneth , Peña Collazos Wilmar Aníbal
Published: March 2020

En la obra de Fernando Soto Aparicio, Viaje a la claridad, aparecen tres elementos de indiscutible importancia para entender el modo como los personajes lidian con: su condición de víctima, con el poder y con el perdón como esperanza. Elementos que son parte de la construcción de una nación, sumida en una larga guerra, real e imaginaria que ignora, invisibiliza y elimina del relato cultural.