bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chitosan-capped enzyme-responsive hollow mesoporous silica nanoplatforms for colon-specific drug delivery
Authors: Cai Defu , Han Cuiyan , Liu Chang , Ma Xiaoxing , Qian Jiayi , Zhou Jianwen , Li Yue , Sun Yiming , Zhang Changting , zhu wenquan
Published: May 2020

An enzyme-responsive colon-specific delivery system was developed based on hollow mesoporous silica spheres (HMSS) to which biodegradable chitosan (CS) was attached via cleavable azo bonds (HMSS-N=N-CS). Doxorubicin (DOX) was encapsulated in a noncrystalline state in the hollow cavity and mesopores of HMSS with the high loading amount of 35.2%. In vitro drug release proved that HMSS-N=N-CS/DOX performed enzyme-responsive drug release. The grafted CS could increase the biocompatibility and stability, and reduce the protein adsorption on HMSS. Gastrointestinal mucosa irritation and cell cytotoxicity results indicated the good biocompatibility of HMSS and HMSS-N=N-CS. Cellular uptake results indicated that the uptake of DOX was obviously increased after HMSS-N=N-CS/DOX was preincubated with a colonic enzyme mixture. HMSS-N=N-CS/DOX incubated with colon enzymes showed increased cytotoxicity, and its IC50 value was three times lower than that of HMSS-N=N-CS/DOX group without colon enzymes. The present work lays the foundation for subsequent research on mesoporous carriers for oral colon-specific drug delivery.
Generation and validation of a highly sensitive bioluminescent HIV-1 reporter vector that simplifies measurement of virus release
Authors: Kirui James , Freed Eric
Published: May 2020

Background The continued persistence of HIV-1 as a public health concern due to the lack of a cure calls for the development of new tools for studying replication of the virus. Here, we used NanoLuc, a small and extremely bright luciferase protein, to develop an HIV-1 bioluminescent reporter virus that simplifies functional measurement of virus particle production. Results The reporter virus encodes a Gag protein containing NanoLuc inserted between the matrix (MA) and capsid (CA) domains of Gag, thereby generating virus particles that package high levels of the NanoLuc reporter. We observe that inserting the NanoLuc protein within HIV-1 Gag has minimal impact on Gag expression and virus particle release. We show that the reporter virus recapitulates inhibition of HIV-1 particle release by Gag mutations, the restriction factor tetherin, and the small-molecule inhibitor amphotericin-B methyl ester. Conclusion These results demonstrate that this vector will provide a simple and rapid tool for functional studies of virus particle assembly and release and high-throughput screening for cellular factors and small-molecules that promote or inhibit HIV-1 particle production.
Novel multiplex real-time PCR assays reveal a high prevalence of diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli pathotypes in healthy and diarrhoeal children in the South of Vietnam
Authors: Duong Vu Thuy , Tu Le Thi Phuong , Tuyen Ha Thanh , Nhi Le Thi Quynh , Campbell James I , Minh Pham Van , Phuc Hoang Le , Chau Tran Thi Hong , Ngoc Nguyem Minh , Vi Lu Lan , Jenkins Claire , Okeke Iruka , Higginson Ellen , Baker Stephen
Published: May 2020

Background: Diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) infections are common in children in low-middle income countries (LMICs). However, detecting the various DEC pathotypes is complex as they cannot be differentiated by classical microbiology. We developed four multiplex real-time PCR assays were to detect virulence markers of six DEC pathotypes; specificity was tested using DEC controls and other enteric pathogens. PCR amplicons from the six E. coli pathotypes were purified and amplified to be used to optimize PCR reactions and to calculate reproducibility. After validation, these assays were applied to clinical samples from healthy and diarrhoeal Vietnamese children and associated with clinical data. Results: The multiplex real-time PCRs were found to be reproducible, and specific. At least one DEC variant was detected in 34.7% (978/2,815) of the faecal samples from diarrhoeal children; EAEC, EIEC and atypical EPEC were most frequent Notably, 41.2% (205/498) of samples from non-diarrhoeal children was positive with a DEC pathotype. In this population, only EIEC, which was detected in 34.3% (99/289) of diarrhoeal samples vs. 0.8% (4/498) non-diarrhoeal samples (p<0.001), was significantly associated with diarrhoea. Multiplex real-time PCR when applied to clinical samples is an efficient and high-throughput approach to DEC pathotypes. Conclusions: This approach revealed high carriage rates of DEC pathotypes among Vietnamese children. We describe a novel diagnostic approach for DEC, which provides baseline data for future surveillance studies assessing DEC burden in LMICs.
Chlorogenic acid alleviates sepsis-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction and the underlying mechanism
Authors: Zhang Zisen , Wu Yue , Zhu Yu , Peng Xiao-yong , Xue Ming-ying , Li Tao , Liu Liangming
Published: May 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
The Characteristics of Laboratory Tests at Admission and the Risk Factors for Adverse Clinical Outcomes of Severe and Critical COVID-19
Authors: Wang Liulin , Cheng Xiaobin , Dong Qiufen , Zhou Chenliang , Wang Yeming , Song Bin , Li Weinan , Wang Min , Qin Rui , Long Qi , Liu Juan , Li Jing , Li Dan , Li Gang , Ba Yuanming
Published: May 2020

Background COVID-19 is a worldwide pandemic. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the risk of death from severe and critical COVID-19. Method A retrospective study of patients diagnosed with severe and critical COVID-19 from four hospitals , describing the clinical characteristics and laboratory results, and using Cox survival analysis to study the risk factors was conducted. Results Four hundred and forty-six patients with COVID-19 showed a high mortality rate (20.2%). All patients required oxygen therapy, and 52(12%) patients required invasive mechanical ventilation, of which 50(96%) patients died. The univariate Cox proportional hazard model showed a white blood cell count of more than 10 × 10⁹/L （HR4.3, 95% CI 2.8 to6.9）,which is a risk factor .The multivariate Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated that advanced age (HR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.1) and high white blood cell count on admission (HR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.2) were independent risk factors for patient death. Conclusions COVID-19 is a new disease entity that carries significant risk of morbidity and mortality.Advanced age and high white blood cell count were found to be independent risk factors for patient death.
Phylogenetic analysis of Anguilla marmorata population in Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam based on the cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene fragments
Authors: Linh Nguyen Quang , Huyen Kieu Thi
Published: May 2020

The giant mottled eel is a species with high commercial value so overfishing, river management, and water pollution have negatively affected its movement and population numbers. Anguilla marmorata (eel) was listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book 2007 with a description of Vulnerability. This study used a barcode technique to analyze molecular characteristics and build genetic plants based on the cytochrome c oxidase I gene segment isolated from the mitochondrial genome of 48 individuals of A. marmorata collected in five different ecological regions of Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam. The isolated the cytochrome c oxidase I sequence has a length of 843 nucleotides, four base nucleotides of 30.03% Thymine, 25.15% Cytosine, 27.49% Adenine, and 17.43% Guanine. The percentage of Guanine + Cytosine content (42.58%) is acceptable, lower than the Adenine + Thymine content. The replacement capacity of Adenine and Guanine is 22.45% highest, the ratio between Thymine and Guanine; Cytosine and Guanine are the lowest at 2.72%. The establishment of genetically modified plants has shown the high genetic similarity of individuals in eel populations in Thua Thien Hue. The population of Anguilla marmorata eels in Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam is divided into two separate groups that are guided by the migration process and specific ecological. This is particularly important in building strategies to conserve and develop the gene for eel in Vietnam and Thua Thien Hue.
ROCK2 promotes osteosarcoma growth and glycolysis by up-regulating HKII via phospho- PI3K/AKT signalling
Authors: Deng Xue qaing , Deng Jianyong , Yi Xuan , Zou Yeqing , Hao Liang
Published: May 2020

Background
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant bone tumour that exhibits a high mortality. While tumours thrive in a state of malnutrition, the mechanism by which OS cells adapt to metabolic stress through metabolic reprogramming remains unclear.
Methods
We analysed the expression of ROCK2 in osteosarcoma patients by RT-qPCR and Western blot. Cell proliferation, and colony formation were analysed using CCK8, EdU assays and colony formation assays. The level of Cell glycolysis was detected by glucose-6 phosphate, glucose consumption, lactate production and ATP levels.
Results
Herein, our study showed that ROCK2 expression in OS was higher than in adjacent tissues. Functional assays have demonstrated that ROCK2 contributes to the growth of OS cells by inducing aerobic glycolysis. The current study revealed that ROCK2 knockdown decreased the levels of mitochondrial hexokinase II (HKII). And also indicated that ROCK2 served as a key enzyme in glycolysis and that it served an important role in tumour growth and metastasis. A significant positive correlation was identified between the mRNA and protein expressions of ROCK2 and HKII, further demonstrating that ROCK2-induced glycolysis and proliferation was dependent on HKII in OS cells. Mechanistically, ROCK2 promotes HKII expression by activating the phospho-PI3K/AKT signalling pathway.
Conclusions
Taken together, the results of the current study linked the two drivers of OS growth and aerobic glycolysis, and identified a new mechanism of ROCK2 control in OS.
New glucose metrics do not associate with carotid artery wall thickness and endothelial function in type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Cutruzzolà Antonio , Irace Concetta , Parise Martina , Fiorentino Raffaella , Barone Milena , Gnasso Agostino
Published: May 2020

Background

Patients with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) have increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease and can be detected non-invasively in the pre-clinical stage by measuring intima-media thickness (IMT) and flow mediated dilation (FMD). Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) does not associate with IMT and FMD. We have designed the present study to evaluate whether time spent in the target range, below the target range, and glycemic variability associate with common carotid artery IMT and FMD in T1D.
Methods

78 T1D patients and 35 healthy control subjects were enrolled and underwent measurement of IMT and evaluation of FMD after ischemia and during 6 min of hand-grip exercise.
Results

Mean age of participants was 34 ± 13 years; mean disease duration and HbA1c were 17 ± 9 years, and 7.7 ± 0.9% (61 mmol/mol). IMT was significantly higher in T1D compared with controls (643 ± 196 vs. 536 ± 111 µ; p < 0.001) and FMD after ischemia significantly lower (7.5 ± 4.1 vs. 10.1 ± 1.9%; p < 0.0001). FMD evaluated during exercise every min up to 6 min was also significantly lower in T1D (p < 0.0001). No significant relationship between IMT, FMD, and glucose metrics was found.
Conclusions

The present findings confirm that young adult patients with T1D have clinically relevant early vascular abnormalities. The absence of relationships with the glucose metric underlines the complexity of the interplay between atherosclerosis and diabetes. It stimulates the search for new parameters or new cut-offs better associated with the initial stages of the disease.
microRNAs Facilitate Comprehensive Responses of Bathymodiolinae Mussel Against Symbiotic and Nonsymbiotic Bacteria Stimulation
Authors: Chen Hao , Wang Minxiao , Zhang Huan , Wang Hao , Zhou Li , Zhong Zhaoshan , Cao Lei , Lian Chao , Sun Yan , Li Chaolun
Published: May 2020

Background:As the dominant species inhabiting both cold seeps and hydrothermal vents,Bathymodiolinae mussels are one of the most successful megafauna in the deep sea.They thrive in dark and food-insufficient environmentsby harboring sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB)and/or methane-oxidizing bacteria (MOB)ingill bacteriocytesand obtain the majority of their nutrition from them.Many attempts have been made to decode the mechanisms underlying their symbiosis, which yetremained largely undisclosedfor years due to the lack of cultivable symbionts. In the present study,the globalexpression pattern of immune-related genes and miRNAswere surveyed inGigantidasplatifronsduring bacterial challengesusing enriched symbiontsor nonsymbioticVibrio in attempting to reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying chemosynthetic symbiosis. Results: Multiple PRRs such as TLRs, LRRs and C1q were found vigorously modulated during challenges whiledistinctly clusteredbetween symbiotic and nonsymbiotic bacteria stimulation. As downstream of the immune response,dozens of immune effectors including HSP70, P450, CD82 andvacuolar protein sorting-associated proteinwere modulated simultaneously, contributing to the fine tuning of cellular homeostasis, lysosome activity and bacteria engulfment in either symbiotic and nonsymbiotic bacteria challenge.A total of 459 miRNAs were identified in gill tissue of G. platifrons while dozens of themwere differentially expressedduring the challenge.Among these miRNAs, some were also found in differentexpression patternbetween symbiont or nonsymbiontchallenges and targeting apoptosis and phagosome maturation-related genes, including caspase8, inhibitor of apoptosis, cAMP-responsive element-binding protein,IκB, Rab and integrin. Conclusion:It was suggested that G. platifrons PRRs might function cooperativelyto facilitate the specialized immune recognition to MOBs or nonsymbioticbacteria. Meanwhile, a shared expression pattern of immune effectorswas observed between bacterial challenges, indicatingthe conservative response of Bathymodiolinae mussels in promoting the adhesion andengulfment of symbionts and nonsymbiont. Nevertheless, the differentially expressed miRNAs were yet suggested to facilitate specialized modulationinsymbiosis by repressing apoptosis- and phagosome maturation-related genes.With the orchestra of immune-related genes and miRNAs, G. platifronsmussels could therefore maintain arobust immune response against invading pathogens while establishing symbiosis with chemosynthetic bacteria.
Long Noncoding RNA LncPGCR mediated by TCF7L2 regulates chicken PGCs formation
Authors: Jiang Jingyi , Zuo Qisheng , Cheng Shaoze , Yuan Xia , Jin Jing , Chen Chen , Zhang Chen , Zhou Jing , Zhang Yani , Chen Guohong , Li Bichun
Published: May 2020

Background: Several of the thousands of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been functionally characterized, yet its specific function and molecular mechanism in the formation of chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs) remains poorly understood. In the present study, we aim to investigate the role of LncPGCR (LncRNA PGCs Regulator) in PGCs formation.Methods: LncPGCR, Cvh, Nanog, C-kit, gga-mir-6577-5p and Btrc expressions were detected by qRT-PCR. The percentage of PGCs cells was detected by flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, and PAS staining. The interaction of histone acetylation, DNA methylation, transcription factor TCF7L2, and LncPGCR was confirmed by Luciferase reporter assay. The interaction of GAPDH and LncPGCR was measured by RNA pull-down, RIP, and Western blot.Results: We observed the increased expression of LncPGCR in PGCs. It is mainly expressed in the cytoplasm and encodes small peptides. Moreover, over-expression of LncPGCR could promote PGCs formation in vitro and in vivo. Besides, we first reported that histone acetylation, DNA methylation, and transcription factor TCF7L2 can regulate LncPGCR expression in PGCs. In addition, LncPGCR activates WNT signaling pathways to promote PGCs formation by adsorbing gga-mir-6577-5p, relieving its inhibitory effect on target gene Btrc. Meanwhile, LncPGCR contributed to PGCs formation by increasing the phosphorylation level of GAPDH to activate the TGF-β signal pathway.Conclusion: LncPGCR over-expression promoted ESCs differentiation into PGCs through the potential LncPGCR/miR-6577-5p/BTRC pathway or increasing the phosphorylation level of GAPDH to activate the TGF-β signal pathway.
Pre-implementation Perceptions Among Teachers on the Use of Ecological Sanitation and Application of Human Urine as Fertilizer
Authors: Devkota Govinda Prasad , Bastien Sheri , Jenssen Petter D. , Pandey Manoj K. , Devkota Bhimsen , Maharjan Shyam Krishna
Published: May 2020

Although human urine contains nutrients for plant growth, very few community schools in Nepal use a urine diversion dry toilet (UDDT) and apply the human urine as fertilizer in their school garden. Using human urine in agriculturereduces the use of chemical fertilizers, thus saving the expenditure associated with it. Application of human urine improves the soil fertility and may contribute to increased food security among school children if the school can supply the canteen with food for mid-day meals. This study adopted a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach in order to understand stakeholder perspectives and involve them in the planning and implementation of urine diverting toilets. The data for this study were collected from five teachers' focus group discussions. This paper presents teachers' perceptions ofthe urine diversion dry toilet system and use of human urine as a fertilizer for the school garden.Only a few teachers accepted that human urine could be used as fertilizer, however, they were not willing to use it on their crops since it was considered impure. Due to a perceived bad odor and the uncomfortable sitting position on the UDDT, particularlyfor females, teachers disliked this toilet and they felt using urine as fertilizer was unnecessary. One of the key lessons drawn from the study is that schools, in collaboration with local governments,should employ participatory approaches to understanding and engaging local stakeholders, including teachers, to minimize negative perceptions prior to the application of human urine as fertilizer in the school garden.
The Development of Legal Framework on Blood Donation and Blood Safety of China in 24 Years
Authors: Li Heng , Gao Dajun , Wang Kang
Published: May 2020

Background This study analyzes the regulations and developments in blood donation from 1996 to 2019 in China, and demonstrate the government’s efforts in improving blood safety.Study Design and Methods We compiled blood transfusion laws and regulations implemented from 1998 to 2019 and official published data on blood donation. Thereafter, we analyzed the impacts of these changes.Results Since the implementation of the Blood Donation Law in 1998, the number of blood donors in China increased by 275% from 1998 to 2018 (from 4 million to 15 million). The principle of no-fault liability was proposed and has been applied since 2010 to the tort liability related to blood transfusion malpractice. In 2015, mutual blood donation accounts for 4.2% of the national collection. However, in some provinces of China, the percentage of mutual blood donation increased from 9.3–35.6% in 2016. The NHC cancelled mutual blood donation in March 2018. Nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) has become a routine test item for screening blood since 2015.Conclusion The Chinese government institutionalized the voluntary non-remunerated donation principle, enacted regulations for the management of blood transfusion, and adopted advanced blood testing technology to sustain blood supply and ensure blood safety. In spited of increased blood donation, blood shortage persists. Quality and safety of blood collection can be further improved through the cancellation of mutual blood donation and incentive measures for voluntary non-remunerated donation of blood, which needs facilitation by governmental legislation.
Political Economy Analysis of the Performance-Based Financing Programme in Afghanistan
Authors: Salehi Ahmad Shah , Blanchut Karl , Vassal Anna , Borghi Josephine
Published: May 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to erroneous posting.
Identification of pathogens from native urine samples by MALDI-TOF/TOF tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Starcevic Antonio , Oros Damir , Ceprnja Marina , Zucko Jurica , Cindrić Mario , Hozic Amela , Skrlin Jasenka , Barisic Karmela , Melvan Ena , Uroic Ksenija , Kos Blazenka
Published: May 2020

Background: Reliable high-throughput microbial pathogen identification in human urine samples is crucial for patients with cystitis symptoms. Currently employed methods are time-consuming and could lead to unnecessary or inadequate antibiotic treatment. Purpose of this study was to assess the potential of mass spectrometry for uropathogen identification from a native urine sample. Methods: In total, 16 urine samples having more than 10 5 CFU/mL were collected from clinical outpatients. These samples were analysed using standard urine culture methods, followed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing serving as control and here described culture-independent MALDI-TOF/TOF MS method being tested. Results: Here we present advantages and disadvantages of bottom-up proteomics, using MALDI-TOF/TOF tandem mass spectrometry, for culture-independent identification of uropathogens (e.g. directly from urine samples). The direct approach provided reliable identification of bacteria at the genus level in monobacterial samples. Taxonomic identifications obtained by proteomics were compared both to standard urine culture test used in clinics and genomic test based on 16S rRNA sequencing. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that mass spectrometry has great potential as a reliable high-throughput tool for microbial pathogen identification in human urine samples. In this case, the MALDI-TOF/TOF, was used as an analytical tool for the determination of bacteria in urine samples, and the results obtained emphasize high importance of storage conditions and sample preparation method impacting reliability of MS2 data analysis. The proposed method is simple enough to be utilized in existing clinical settings and is highly suitable for suspected single organism infectious etiologies. Further research is required in order to identify pathogens in polymicrobial urine samples. Keywords: urine, sample preparation, pathogen identification, proteomics, MALDI-TOF/TOF, 16S rRNA sequencing
Multimodal Physical Therapy Approach on Depression, Anxiety, Stress and Quality of Life in Subject with Home Quarantine for COVID-19 Pandemic Attack- A Case Study From India
Authors: Patra Ramesh , Kanungo Biswajit
Published: May 2020

Purpose: The main purpose of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of multidisciplinary physiotherapy approach on depression, anxiety, stress and quality of life during lockdown periods for the COVID-19 pandemic attack. Method: The patient was 56 years female complaining with restlessness and sleep disturbances at night in an outpatient department, Jalandhar Physiotherapy, India. She was a known case of hypertension and grade-2 bilateral knee osteoarthritis. Her level of depression, anxiety and stress was evaluated through DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale) questionnaire. Short Form of health related questionnaire (SF-36) was used for the assessment of quality of life. Emotional liberation breathing technique and multimodal physical therapy approaches were used to treat the patient for 2 weeks of periods 3 sessions per week. Results: After four weeks of follow up the patient was presented with significant improvement in all the parameters depression, anxiety, stress and quality of life (physical functioning, role of limitation-physical health, role of limitation-emotional health, energy, emotional wellbeing, Body pain and general health). These outcomes were reduced the use of analgesics and sedative drugs. Conclusion: Therefore, the outcomes of this case study concluded that multidimensional therapeutic approach is a beneficial approach to manage depression, anxiety, quality of life, and sleep quality.
Beliefs, perceptions and practices of chiropractors and patients about mitigation strategies for benign adverse events after spinal manipulation therapy
Authors: Funabashi Martha , Pohlman Katherine A. , Goldsworthy Rachel , Lee Alex , Tibbles Anthony , Mior Silvano , Kawchuk Greg
Published: May 2020

Background Approximately 50% of patients who receive spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) experience some kind of adverse event (AE), typically benign and transient in nature. Regardless of their severity, mitigating benign AEs is important to improve patient experience and quality of care. The aim of this study was to identify beliefs, perceptions and practices of chiropractors and patients regarding benign AEs post-SMT and potential strategies to mitigate them. Methods Clinicians and patients from two chiropractic teaching clinics were invited to respond to an 11-question survey exploring their beliefs, perceptions and practices regarding benign AEs post-SMT and strategies to mitigate them. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results A total of 39 clinicians (67% response rate) and 203 patients (82.9% response rate) completed the survey. Most clinicians (97%) believed benign AEs occur, and 82% reported their own patients have experienced one. For patients, 55% reported experiencing benign AEs post-SMT, with the most common symptoms being pain/soreness, headache and stiffness. While most clinicians (61.5%) reported trying a mitigation strategy with their patients, only 21.2% of patients perceived their clinicians had tried any mitigation strategy. Clinicians perceived that patient education is most likely to mitigate benign AEs, followed by soft tissue therapy and/or icing after SMT. Patients perceived stretching was most likely to mitigate benign AEs, followed by education and/or massage. Conclusions This is the first study comparing beliefs, perceptions and practices from clinicians and patients regarding benign AEs post-SMT and strategies to mitigate them. This study provides an important step towards identifying the best strategies to improve patient safety and improve quality of care.
Food Security and Its Association with Socioeconomic Status and Diet Diversity in Free Living Elderly in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Pourebrahim Fatemeh , Omidvar Nasrin , Rezazadeh Arezoo , Eini-Zinab Hassan , Shirani Pedram
Published: May 2020

Backgrounds:

Food security is one of the most important factors affecting food access and diet diversity. Older age is a period when adequate and diverse dietary intake is a challenge and there is a high risk for malnutrition. This study aimed to investigate the association between food security, dietary diversity and socioeconomic factors among the free-living elderly in the city of Tehran.
Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 583 elderlies (279 men and 304 women) aged 60–80 years were selected through clustered systematic multi-stage sampling method from 10 districts of Tehran city. Food security status of the subjects was determined using locally validated version of the United States Household Food Security Survey Module )US-HFSSM( questionnaire. Socio-economic status was assessed by a questionnaire. Dietary intake of the subjects was evaluated using two 24-hour recalls (one weekday and one week-end) through face-to-face interviews. Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) was calculated using the FAO 2010 guideline. Multinomial logistic regression was applied for the analysis.
Results

The average age of participants was 67.87 ± 5.86 years. Based on US-HFSSM, 56.9% of the elderly were food secure; while 25.7%, 14.2% and 3.2% suffered from food insecurity (FI) without hunger, with moderate hunger, and with severe hunger, respectively. There was no association between FI and DDS, even after controlling for confounders. Multinomial logistic regression models suggested that after adjusting for age and gender, being illiterate increased the possibility of different levels of food insecurity [(OR = 3.107, 95% CI = 1.672–5.775), (OR = 2.736, 95% CI = 1.261–5.935) and (OR = 6.193, 95% CI = 1.368–28.039)], respectively. Also, FI with mild hunger was associated with total household income (OR = 2.744, 95% CI = 1.100-6.846), while FI with severe hunger was significantly associated with Fars ethnicity (OR = 0.146, 95% CI = 0.051–0.424).
Conclusions

Overall, socio-economic status and demographic characteristics were the predictors of FI among the elderly, while DDS was not associated with FI.
Exploring the Caring Incorporating Yoga Program in Promoting Physical Recovery of Stroke Patients in Acute Phase
Authors: Aryal Kalpana Paudel Paudel , Hatthakit Urai , Boonyoung Nongnut
Published: May 2020

Background: Currently, caring science integrating cultural practices has become an important health resource to get positive health outcomes for hospitalized acutely ill patients. Yoga, a cultural practice, has the power to bring multiple physical improvements among chronic stroke patients. The purpose of the study is to analyze the experiences of participants focusing on their roles and perceptions of the power of caring incorporating yoga to promote physical recovery among stroke patients during the acute phase. Methods: The study is a part of action research entitled "Development of a Caring Model Incorporating Yoga for Promoting Physical Recovery and Wisdom of People Living with Stroke". Purposeful sample was used to select the participants of 16 nurses, 16 stroke patients and their family caregivers. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews guideline and continues until data saturation in a neurology unit of a university hospital, Nepal. An inductive content analysis approach was used for data analysis. Results: Three main themes and 9 sub-themes were emerged from the qualitative data in terms of experiences of the participants on the program. The three main theme included "caring as a tool to develop trusting relationship"; "yoga as a practical and powerful tool for physical recovery of stroke patients during acute phase"; and "perceived physical recovery as a result of the caring incorporating yoga intervention". Conclusions: The finding of the study shown that that nurses can successfully facilitate early physical recovery of stroke patients using caring incorporating yoga during their acute phase. As yoga is well accepted by Hindu stroke patients due to it being culturally congruent with their sociocultural background, it may be effective for physical recovery and healing of the whole person.
Micro-PET imaging of angiogenesis based on 18F-RGD for assessment liver metastasis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Mingyu , Jiang Hao , Jiang Huijie , Zhang Rongjun , Wang Zhenchang
Published: May 2020

Background: This study aimed to explore the feasibility of 18 F-AIF-NOTA-E[PEG4-c(RGDfk)]2 (denoted as 18 F-RGD) PET quantitative parameters to distinguish the angiogenesis in colorectal cancer (CRC) mice which has different metastatic potential. Methods: Animal models of CRC liver metastases were established by implanttation of human CRC cell lines LoVo and LS174T via intrasplenic injection. Radiotracer-based micro-positron emission tomography imaging of animal model was performed and the uptake of 18 F-RGD tracer in the tumor tissues were quantified as tumor-to-liver maximum or mean standardized uptake values ratio. Pearson correlation was used to analyze the relationship between radioactive parameters and tumor markers. Results: The SUVmax ratio and SUVmean ratio of LoVo model was significantly higher than LS174T ones in both liver metastasis and primary tumor lesions (P ＜ 0.05 ). A significantly difference was observed in both VEGF and Ki67 expression between LoVo and LS174T primary tumors (P ＜ 0.05 ). The T/L SUVmean or SUVmax ratio of 18 F-RGD showed a significantly correlation with VEGF expression, but weakly correlated with Ki67 expression. The areas under the ROC curves of 18 F-RGD SUVmean ratio for differentiate LoVo from LS174T tumor was 0.801. Conclusions: The T/L SUVmean ratio of 18 F-RGD is a promising parameters for tumor imaging and monitoring angiogenesis process in CRC xenograft mice model.
GRP78 promotes metastasis by regulation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress through remodeling extracellular matrix in thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Guohong , Kang Jianqin , Xun Guanghui , Wei Jing , Wang Xiaoguang , Jing Xiaorui , Zhang Lan , Yang Aili , Wang Kai , Wang Jue , Wang Li , Hou Junfeng , Liu Qingquan , Jiao Kai , Gao Bin
Published: May 2020

Background
Thyroid cancer(TC)is the most common type of endocrine malignant tumor and the incidence is increasing by years. Conventional surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are difficult to improve significantly effects due to the aggression and metastasis of poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC) and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) which are the most malignant type of thyroid cancer. Glucose-regulated protein (GRP78) as the key molecule is related to tumor growth, apoptosis and metastasis. However, the mechanisms responsible for the effects of TC on GRP78 still need to be discussed. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the presence of GRP78 and the potential mechanism of TC.
Results
GRP78 expression is increased in thyroid carcinoma tissues in comparison with the adjacent normal tissues. Besides, down-regulation of GRP78 significantly inhibited the metastatic and proliferative potential of ATC cells in vitro studies. In addition, tunicomycin (TM)-induced ER stress could up-regulate the expression of GRP78, PERK and XBP1 as well as reverse metastatic ability of GRP78 in TC cells. Bioinformatics and statistical analysis of gene ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways for RNA-seq data from si-GRP78 and si-control showed GRP78 may regulate the ability of metastasis through the ECM remodeling in ATC cells, as well as the expression of ECM components such as COL1A1 and MMP13 were illustrated to be highly relevant to ATC. The analysis of GEPIA database confirmed that high genomic amplification of MMP13 and COL1A1 in TC tissues and were correlated with TNM stage. A further western blot analysis showed MMP13 may be the target of GRP78 in ATC cells and ER stress could activate the expression of MMP13 which was suppressed by depletion of GRP78.
Conclusions
GRP78 is an important regulator of metastasis under the ER stress. In addition, GRP78’s functions might be mediated by ECM remodeling in ATC cells, which implicates GRP78 as a therapeutic target in thyroid cancer.
Platelet miRNA bio-signature discriminates between dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer disease: A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Gámez-Valero Ana , Campdelacreu Jaume , Vilas Dolores , Ispierto Lourdes , Samaniego Daniela , Gascón-Bayarri Jordi , Reñé Ramón , Álvarez Ramiro , Armengol Maria P , Borràs Francesc E. , Beyer Katrin
Published: May 2020

Background

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is one of the most common causes of degenerative dementia after Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and presents pathological and clinical overlap with both AD and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Consequently, only one in three DLB cases is diagnosed correctly. Platelets have been previously related to neurodegeneration. They contain microRNAs (miRNAs), and their analysis may provide disease biomarkers.
Methods

Small RNAs from platelets of DLB patients and controls were analyzed by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), and miRNAs deregulated in DLB were selected. Expression of these miRNAs was then determined and validated by LNA-based qRT-PCR in three consecutive studies from 2017 to 2019 enrolling 162 individuals, including DLB, AD, and PD patients, and healthy controls. Their predictive diagnostic potential was calculated by ROC curve analysis. miRTarbase and miRGate were used for target prediction.
Results

We profiled the whole platelet miRNA transcriptome from 7 DLB patients and 7 controls using NGS. Twenty-two selected miRNAs were further validated in independent studies (2017–2019) including DLB (n = 59), AD (n = 28), and PD (n = 24) patients, and control individuals (n = 51). Our results demonstrated downregulated expression levels for hsa-let-7d-5p (fold change 0.14; p = 0.006), hsa-miR-132-5p (0.12; p = 0.0015), hsa-miR-142-3p (0.07; p = 0.00047), hsa-miR-146a-5p (0.07; p = 0.00035), hsa-miR-150-5p (0.10; p = 0.0098), hsa-miR-25-3p (0.13; p = 0.0019) and hsa-miR-26b-5p (0.09; p = 0.0014) in DLB compared to AD. ROC curve for this seven-miRNA biosignature yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 1. Both hsa-miR-142-3p and hsa-miR-150-5p, were down-regulated in DLB compared to controls (AUC = 0.85). Comparing AD and controls, miRNAs hsa-miR-132-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p, hsa-miR-25-3p, and hsa-miR-6747-3p were up-regulated in AD (AUC = 0.94); and hsa-miR-128-3p and hsa-miR-139-5p were down-regulated in PD compared to controls (AUC = 0.81). Predictive target analysis identified three disease-specific pathway clusters as a result of platelet-miRNA deregulation. In DLB, pathways related to gene expression and small RNA metabolism; in AD, pathways related to stress response and RNA stress granules; and in PD pathways related to protein phosphorylation, metabolism and degradation were identified.
Conclusion

A platelet-associated bio-signature composed of 7 miRNAs is highly specific and sensitive for distinguishing DLB from AD.
The incidence of in-stent restenosis after drug-eluting stent implantation in patients on chronic hemodialysis
Authors: Motohiro Masayuki , Sugita Hiroshi , Shibutani Hiroki , Morishita Syun , Tanaka Masami , Tsujimoto Satoshi , Shiojima Ichiro
Published: May 2020

Background: Recently, drug-eluting stents have been widely adopted rather than bare-metal stents in patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD) based on the extrapolation of data from patients on non-HD. However, whether DES implantation is associated with a reduced rate of in-stent restenosis (ISR) is unclear. We investigated the incidence of ISR and its predictors in patients on HD after drug-eluting stent implantation.Methods and Results: We analyzed 194 consecutive patients (331 lesions) on HD who underwent follow-up angiography after drug-eluting stent implantation. ISR was observed in 74 lesions (22.4%). Angiographically, the relative incidence of AHA/ACC type C lesion was increased (47% vs. 32%; P=0.043), the minimal lumen diameter (MLD) before DES implantation was smaller (0.82±0.49 vs. 0.97±0.45mm; P<0.01) and the lesion length (LL) was increased (30.2±16.1 vs. 24.4±12.1mm; P=0.023) in lesions with ISR compared to those without ISR. The rate of rotational atherectomy use was also increased in lesions with ISR compared to those without ISR (50% vs. 25%; P<0.01). In a multivariate analysis, the MLD before drug-eluting stent implantation (odds ratio [OR] =0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27-0.91, P=0.024), LL (OR=1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.04, P=0.030) and the use of rotational atherectomy (OR=2.71, 95% CI 1.55-4.72, P<0.01) were independent predictors of ISR. The incidence of ISR was similar between lesions treated with the first-generation (25.8%) and the second-generation DESs (20.4%).Conclusion: ISR was observed in 74 lesions (22.4%). A small MLD, long LL and the use of rotational atherectomy were independent predictors of ISR after drug-eluting stent implantation in patients on HD. There was no significant difference in ISR rate between the first- and the second-generation drug-eluting stents.
Clinical characteristics of non-small cell lung cancer patients with EGFR mutations and ALK&ROS1 fusions
Authors: Liu Qinghua , Wu Heming , Wu Hailing , Rao Hui , Yu Zhikang , Huang Qingyan , Zhong Zhixiong
Published: May 2020

Background
The purpose of this study was to study the relationship between ALK&ROS1 gene rearrangement, EGFR mutation, non-ALK&ROS1/EGFR and their clinical characteristics in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients to distinguish these different types.
Methods
Both ALK&ROS1 gene rearrangements and EGFR mutations testing were performed in 461 NSCLC patients. The clinical characteristics and associated pulmonary abnormalities were investigated.
Results
Of the 461 patients studied, we identified 175 cases with EGFR mutations (38.0%, 175/461). ALK gene fusions were identified in 33 cases (33/461, 7.2%) and ROS1 gene fusions were identified in 9 cases (9/461, 1.9%). In the EGFR-positive group, the majority were female (50.9%, P < 0.001), non-smoking (76.6%, P < 0.001), adenocarcinoma (90.9%, P < 0.001) patients. Compared with the non-ALK&ROS1/EGFR group, the significant differences in ALK&ROS1-positive group were: younger (P < 0.001), the majority were female (52.4%, P < 0.001), non-smoking (66.7%, P = 0.001), adenocarcinoma (90.5%, P = 0.002) patients, appeared lymphangitic was more (23.8%, P = 0.044) and emphysema was less (9.5%, P < 0.001). The NSCLC patients with exon 19 deletion (74.7%) and L858R (86.4%) most were non-smokers, while patients with L861Q (62.5%) and G719 × (66.7%) most were smokers.
Conclusions
NSCLC with EGFR mutation and ALK&ROS1 gene rearrangement were more likely to occur in young, non-smoking women. Patients with ALK&ROS1 gene rearrangements and EGFR mutations were less likely to develop emphysema.
Iron metabolism in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Tański Wojciech , Chabowski Mariusz , Jankowska-Polańska Beata , Jankowska Ewa Anita
Published: May 2020

Background. The most common haematological manifestation in RA is anaemia (30-60%). The aim of the study was the assessment of the prevalence of iron deficiency in RA patients using standard parameters and new biomarkers.Material and methods. The study was conducted on 62 RA patients, aged 52±15, treated at the Department of Internal Medicine of the 4th Military Teaching Hospital in Wrocław between 2016 and 2017. The control group comprised 58 healthy individuals, aged 56±9. The following tests were carried out: DAS-28, complete blood count, creatinine, uric acid, AspAT, ALAT, GGT, bilirubin, TSH, lipid profile, iron, TIBC, transferrin saturation, ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor, hepcidin, and IL-6.Results. A higher percentage of RA patients compared with the control group had TSAT values below 20%, ferritin levels below the reference range, soluble transferrin receptor levels above 1.59mg/l and hepcidin levels below 14.5 ng/ml. 60% of RA patients had iron deficiency. The correlations between reduced ferritin levels and younger age, female gender, lower GGT levels and increased platelet counts was shown. The correlations were found between iron deficiency and younger age, female gender, reduced haemoglobin levels, increased platelet counts, increased GFR, reduced GGT levels, lower disease activity and less frequent use of sulfasalazineConclusions. Iron deficiency is common in RA patients with high disease activity. RA patients had lower transferrin saturation, lower ferritin and hepcidin levels and higher serum sTfR levels. The increased DAS-28 scores and reduced haemoglobin levels were the two strongest determinants of iron deficiency in RA patients.
High-Cadence Cycling for Parkinson Disease: A Single-Arm Hybrid Implementation and Effectiveness Clinical Trial in the Community Setting
Authors: McKee Kathleen , Johnson Remy K , Chan James , Wills Anne-Marie
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND Efficacy of exercise to improve motor symptoms in Parkinson Disease (PD) has been established in multiple clinical trials. The Pedaling for Parkinson’s ™ (PFP) program is an existing community-based cycling intervention for individuals with PD. Although the program design was informed by efficacy studies, the implementation and effectiveness of the program have not been studied. We used a hybrid trial, which blends the study of implementation and effectiveness, to study the implementation of PFP in community gyms in the greater Boston area. METHODS This was a single-arm open-label pragmatic hybrid type 3 clinical trial designed to test implementation and observe clinical effectiveness. The implementation strategy consisted of enhanced multi-modal training and support for community-based gyms to implement the PFP protocol. Individuals with Hoehn and Yahr stage I-III idiopathic PD were recruited to participate. Primary implementation outcomes included adoption, gym fidelity, participant adherence, implementation cost, sustainability, acceptability, and safety. Secondary effectiveness outcomes included disease and quality of life measures. RESULTS 34 gyms were invited to participate. 4 gyms agreed to participate and implemented the PFP protocol. 24 individuals with idiopathic PD agreed to participate in the study and started classes. The program was implemented safely and sustainably across all sites but with high fidelity at only one of four gyms. 58% of individuals who started classes completed at least 80% of classes. 96% of participants who started classes enjoyed the program and 87% wished to continue. No effectiveness outcomes demonstrated a significant change from pre to post. CONCLUSION Our implementation strategy of additional multi-modal training and support in starting a PFP class was insufficient to achieve wide adoption of and high fidelity and adherence to the PFP protocol. However, participating gyms’ modifications of the PFP protocol in this study suggests such protocol modification may be necessary for effective implementation in the community setting. Future studies should first establish effectiveness of a revised PFP protocol. Implementation could then be achieved through a participatory approach in which barriers to gym participation are identified and mitigated early in the implementation process.
Crack propagation characteristics and mechanism of energy evolution in intermittent externally fissured sandstone
Authors: Yu Hui , Liu Shaowei , Jia Housheng , Zheng Huaichang , Liu Zhihe
Published: May 2020

Geostress environment and fracture distribution both exert important influences on the mechanical properties and failure modes of fissured rock masses. Laboratory test results are presented here to simulate particle flow code (PFC) in externally double-fissured sandstone samples. Mechanical responses of confining pressure and rock bridge angle on stress-strain curves as well as macroscopic damage and fracture propagation in these samples were studied in order to elucidate energy dissipation mechanisms. The results of this analysis show that fissured sandstone peak strength and elastic modulus as well as peak axial and lateral strain increase significantly as rock bridge angle decreases while peak strength increases slightly in concert with confining pressure. Rock bridge angle exerts an important influence on macro fracturing patterns; when β = 0°, wing cracks from two pre-existing external fissures propagate in opposite directions, but when β = 60°, the inner tips of two external fissures become directly connected. The evolution of specimen fracturing passes through four main stages, elastic compression deformation, stable crack development, unstable crack development, and post-peak accelerated crack development. Internal contact forces reach maximum values at the peak stress point, while cracks are mainly tensile and shear examples are mostly distributed at orientations between 80° and 100°. Shear cracks are mainly generated along the direction of main stress, σ 1 , while pre-peak dissipated energy is small, and increases rapidly at the post-peak. As rock bridge angle decreases, peak strain and boundary energies both increase significantly. Data show that energy and rock bridge angle are approximately linearly positively correlated.