bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substance Use Identification and Follow-up Rates among Commercial and Medicare Health Insurance Members in Primary Care and Other Settings
Authors: Baker John G. , Doxbeck David R. , Washington Melanie E. , Horton Angela , Dunning Adam
Published: October 2020

Background : The objective of this study was to investigate factors associated with substance use disorder identification and follow-up rates among samples of members of a private health insurance plan. Methods : In an observational study, samples of claims data for 2017 for Commercial and Medicare members from a private health insurer were accessed and analyzed using descriptive statistics, decision tree analysis, and linear regression models.Results : Commercial and Medicare members differed in age. Medicare members had higher rates of inclusion in a measure of substance use disorder than Commercial members, lower rates of initial short term follow-up, more opioid prescriptions from primary care provides, fewer prescriptions for opioid treatment, and higher rates of selected comorbid conditions. Mental health diagnoses and substance use disorder co-occurred frequently and to a greater extent in the Medicare sample. Among commercial members, there were primarily alcohol problems that increased with age, while opioid problems at about 10% peaked in the mid-twenties. More males were included among all substance types. The overall rate for an initial short term follow-up visit indicating initiation of treatment was 30%. There were large differences in the follow-up rates across settings with a very low rate (4.6% for alcohol and 6.9% for opioid) in primary care settings. Conclusions : These results suggest that increased attention in primary care to young adult males and to older adults, may help to reduce substance use disorder rates, especially alcohol use disorders.
Characterization of the Mechanism of Action of Lanraplenib, a Novel Spleen Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, in Models of Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Pohlmeyer Christopher W. , Shang Ching , Han Pei , Cui Zhi-Hua , Jones Randall M. , Clarke Astrid S. , Murray Bernard P. , Lopez David A. , Newstrom David W. , Inzunza M. David , Matzkies Franziska G. , Currie Kevin S. , Paolo Julie A. Di
Published: October 2020

BackgroundB cells are critical mediators of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN), and antinuclear antibodies can be found in the serum of approximately 98% of patients with SLE. Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase that mediates signaling from immunoreceptors, including the B cell receptor. Active, phosphorylated SYK has been observed in tissues from patients with SLE or cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and its inhibition is hypothesized to ameliorate disease pathogenesis. We sought to evaluate the efficacy and characterize the mechanism of action of lanraplenib, a selective oral SYK inhibitor, in the New Zealand black/white (NZB/W) murine model of SLE and LN.MethodsLanraplenib was evaluated for inhibition of primary human B cell functions in vitro. Furthermore, the effect of SYK inhibition on ameliorating LN-like disease in vivo was determined by treating NZB/W mice with lanraplenib, cyclophosphamide, or a vehicle control. Glomerulopathy and immunoglobulin G (IgG) deposition were quantified in kidneys. The concentration of proinflammatory cytokines was measured in serum. Splenocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry for B cell maturation and T cell memory maturation, and the presence of T follicular helper and dendritic cells.ResultsIn human B cells in vitro, lanraplenib inhibited B cell activating factor-mediated survival as well as activation, maturation, and immunoglobulin M production. Treatment of NZB/W mice with lanraplenib improved overall survival, prevented the development of proteinuria, and reduced blood urea nitrogen concentrations. Kidney morphology was significantly preserved by treatment with lanraplenib as measured by glomerular diameter, protein cast severity, interstitial inflammation, vasculitis, and frequency of glomerular crescents; treatment with lanraplenib reduced glomerular IgG deposition. Mice treated with lanraplenib had reduced concentrations of serum proinflammatory cytokines. Lanraplenib blocked disease-driven B cell maturation and T cell memory maturation in the spleen.ConclusionsLanraplenib blocked the progression of LN-like disease in NZB/W mice. Human in vitro and murine in vivo data suggest that lanraplenib may be efficacious in preventing disease progression in patients with LN at least in part by inhibiting B cell maturation. These data provide additional rationale for the use of lanraplenib in the treatment of SLE and LN.
Sex differences in the trajectories of and factors related to extracurricular sport participation and exercise: A cohort study spanning 13 years
Authors: Wu Wen-chi , Chang Ling-Yin , Luh Dih-Ling , Wu Chi-Chen , Stanaway Fiona , Yen Lee-Lan , Chang Hsing-Yi
Published: October 2020

Background: Extracurricular sport participation and exercise (ESPE) refers to regular exercise/sport participation in addition to the physical education in school among a school-aged population. Rather than general physical activity, ESPE is typically deliberately initiated and presents an efficient target for interventions. However, compared to physical activity, relatively few studies have investigated sex differences in the development of and factors associated with ESPE using a person-centered approach. This study aimed to examine the latent trajectories of ESPE from childhood to emerging adulthood across sexes, and to identify the associated sex-specific individual (i.e., body mass index, body dissatisfaction, stress, and screen behavior) and parental (i.e., parental exercise and parental screen behavior) factors.Methods: This study used data from part of the Child and Adolescent Behavior in Long-term Evolution (CABLE) project, which comprised 2,072 fourth graders (aged 9 years) in Northern Taiwan followed annually from 2001 to 2013 (13 waves). Repeated-measures latent class analysis was used to identify the trajectories of ESPE for males and females, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression was further used to identify sex-specific factors related to ESPE. Results: Four trajectories of ESPE were identified for males and females. For males, these trajectories were Rarely-to-Never (20%), Often-to-Rarely (32%), Always-to-Never (21%), and Always (27%). For females, these trajectories were Rarely-to-Never (34%), Rarely (23%), Always-to-Rarely (33%), and Always (10%). We observed that the developmental patterns of ESPE varied by sex such that there was an earlier decline in the trajectories of ESPE in females than in males and that, compared with males, fewer females maintained exercise habits in young adulthood. Furthermore, we found several sex-specific factors related to ESPE, namely, stress, BMI, and parental exercise. Body dissatisfaction and individual screen behavior were associated with trajectories of ESPE for both sexes. Conclusions: We found distinct trajectories of ESPE from childhood to emerging adulthood for both sexes. The trajectories of ESPE for males and females, however, differ in terms of patterns and associated factors. Our findings suggest that efforts to increase ESPE should be initiated early, and may be made more effective by considering sex differences.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of dabigatran, rivaroxaban and warfarin in the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation in China
Authors: Hongtao Wei , Cui Can , Cui Xiangli , Liu Yi , Li Dandan
Published: October 2020

Background and objective: To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of new anticoagulants and warfarin in the prevention of stroke in Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).Methods: The Markov model was constructed to compare patients’ quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) using drug cost, the cost of the examination after taking a drug, and the incremental cost of other treatments. Both dabigatran (110 and 150 mg, twice a day) and rivaroxaban (20 mg, once a day) were compared with warfarin (3-6 mg, once a day). Willingness to pay, three times the 2018 China GDP per capita (9481.88 $), was the cost-effect threshold in our study.Results: The total cost were was 5317.31$, 29673.33$, 23615.49$, and 34324.91$ for warfarin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran 110mg bid, and dabigatran 150mg bid, respectively. The QALYs for each of the four interventions were 11.07 years, 15.46 years, 12.4 years, and 15 years, respectively. The cost-effectiveness analysis of the three new oral anticoagulants and warfarin showed that the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was 5548.07$/QALY when rivaroxaban was compared with warfarin. Rivaroxaban was the most cost-effective choice and warfarin was the least.Conclusion: In Chinese patients with AF, although warfarin is cheaper, rivaroxaban has a better cost-effectiveness advantage from an economic point of view.
Hemodilution is Associated with Underestimation of Serum Creatinine in Cardiac Surgery Patients: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Jin Jifu , Xu Jiarui , Xu Sujuan , Hu Jiachang , Jiang Wuhua , Shen Bo , Wang Chunsheng , Teng Jie , Ding Xiaoqiang
Published: October 2020

Background: Fluid overload is related to the development and prognosis of cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI). The study is to investigate the influence of serum creatinine (SCr) corrected by fluid balance on the prognosis of patients with cardiac surgery.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in 1334 patients who underwent elective cardiac surgery from January 1 to December 31, 2015. Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria for AKI were applied to identify CSA-AKI. SCr was measured every 24 hours during ICU period and was accordingly adjusted for cumulative fluid balance. Changes in SCr, defined as ∆Crea, were determined by difference between before and after adjustment for cumulative fluid balance. All patients were then divided into three groups: underestimation group (∆Crea ≥ P75), normal group (P25 < ∆Crea < P75) and overestimation group (∆Crea ≤ P25).Results: The incidence of AKI increased from 29.5% to 31.8% after adjustment for fluid balance. Patients in underestimation group showed prolonged length of ICU stay compared with normal group and overestimation group (3.2[1.0-3.0] vs 2.1[1.0-3.0] d, P < 0.001; 3.2[1.0-3.0] vs 2.3[1.0-3.0] d, P < 0.001). Length of hospital stay and mechanical ventilation dependent days in underestimation group were significantly longer than normal group (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed age, baseline SCr and left ventricular ejection fraction were independently associated with underestimation of creatinine.Conclusions: Cumulative fluid balance after cardiac surgery disturbs accurate measurement of serum creatinine. Patients with underestimation of SCr were associated with poor prognosis.
Extracellular vesicular Wnt7b mediates HPV E6-induced cervical cancer angiogenesis by activating the β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Qiu Jun-Jun , Sun Shu-Gen , Tang Xiao-Yan , Lin Ying-Ying , Hua Keqin
Published: October 2020

Background: The E6 oncoproteins of human papillomavirus (HPV) 16/18 are the critical drivers of cervical cancer (CC) progression. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as critical mediators of cancer-tumor microenvironment (TME) communication. However, whether EVs contribute to HPV 16/18 E6-mediated impacts on CC progression remains unclear. Methods: A series of in vitro and in vivo assays were performed to elucidate the roles and mechanism of EV-Wnt7b in HPV E6-induced CC angiogenesis. The prognostic value of serum EV-Wnt7b was determined and a predictive nomogram model was established. Results: HPV 16/18 E6 upregulated Wnt7b mRNA expression in four HPV 16/18-positive CC cell lines and their EVs. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that EV-Wnt7b mRNA was transferred to and modulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) toward more proliferative and proangiogenic behaviors by impacting β-catenin signaling. Clinically, serum EV-Wnt7b levels were elevated in CC patients and significantly correlated with an aggressive phenotype. Serum EV-Wnt7b was determined to be an independent prognostic factor for CC overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Notably, we successfully established a novel predictive nomogram model using serum EV-Wnt7b, which showed good prediction of 1- and 3-year OS and RFS. Conclusions: Our results illustrate a potential crosstalk between HPV 16/18-positive CC cells and HUVECs via EVs in the TME and highlight the potential of circulating EV-Wnt7b as a novel predictive biomarker for CC prognosis.
Neuroprotective effects of Shende’an tablet in the Parkinson’s disease model
Authors: Sheng Yan Xiao , Yang Yuan Shui , Wen Min Xiao , Zhang Xin , Ye Feng Yong , Zhao Peng , Zang Min Li , Peng Kang , Du Ming En , Li Sai
Published: October 2020

Background

Shende’an tablet (SDA) is a newly developed Chinese herbs formula derived from the chinese traditional medicine Zhenganxifeng Decoction, which is approved for treatment of neurasthenia and insomnia in China. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo neuroprotective effects of SDA against Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

In the present work, PC12 cells transfected with or without A53T α-syn genes and MPTP-induced PD mice were used as models to elucidate protective effects of SDA on dopamine (DA) neurons, and the involvement of PGC-1α/Nrf2 signaling in α-syn clearance in PC12/α-syn cells stimulated with Doxycycline (Dox) and reversal of MPTP-induced toxicity in PD mice.

Results

Our results demonstrated that SDA had neuroprotection effect in dopaminergic PC12 cells with 6-OHDA. It had also displayed efficient dopaminergic neuronal protection and motor behavior alleviation properties in MPTP-induced PD mice. In the PC12/α-syn cells and MPTP-induced PD animal models, SDA was highly efficacious in α-syn clearance associated with activation of PGC-1α/Nrf2 signal pathway.

Conclusion

The results of our study suggest that SDA could be a potential therapeutic drug for PD through protecting dopamine neurons and alleviating the motor symptoms, and the mechanism might be related to the activation of PGC-1α/Nrf2 signal pathway.
Selective role of the translin/trax RNase complex in hippocampal synaptic plasticity
Authors: Park Alan Jung , Shetty Mahesh Shivarama , Baraban Jay M. , Abel Ted
Published: October 2020

Activity-dependent local protein synthesis is critical for synapse-specific, persistent plasticity. Abnormalities in local protein synthesis have been implicated in psychiatric disorders. We have recently identified the translin/trax microRNA-degrading enzyme as a novel mediator of protein synthesis at activated synapses. Additionally, translin knockout (KO) mice, which lack translin/trax, exhibit some of the behavioral abnormalities found in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome (fragile X mental retardation protein-FMRP-KO mice). Therefore, identifying signaling pathways interacting with translin/trax to support persistent synaptic plasticity is a translationally relevant goal. Here, as a first step to achieve this goal, we have assessed the requirement of translin/trax for multiple hippocampal synaptic plasticity paradigms that rely on distinct molecular mechanisms. We found that mice lacking translin/trax exhibited selective impairment in a form of persistent hippocampal plasticity, which requires postsynaptic protein kinase A (PKA) activity. In contrast, enduring forms of plasticity that are dependent on presynaptic PKA were unaffected. Furthermore, these mice did not display exaggerated metabotropic glutamate receptor-mediated long-term synaptic depression (mGluR-LTD), a hallmark of the FMRP KO mice. . On the contrary, translin KO mice exhibited deficits in N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) dependent LTD, a phenotype not observed in the FMRP knockouts. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that translin/trax mediates long-term synaptic plasticity that is dependent on postsynaptic PKA signaling and suggest that translin/trax and FMRP play distinct roles in hippocampal synaptic plasticity.
The effects of exercise and low-calorie diets compared with low-calorie diets alone on health: a protocol for systematic reviews and meta-analyses of controlled clinical trials
Authors: Beigrezaei Sara , Yazdanpanah Zeinab , Soltani Sepideh , Rajaei Seiedeh Hamideh , Mohseni-Takalloo Sahar , Zohrabi Tayebeh , Kaviani Mojtaba , Forbes Scott C. , Baker Julien S. , Salehi-Abargouei Amin
Published: October 2020

Background: Exercise and weight loss diets are two independent non-pharmaceutical strategies used to improve several aspects of body composition and health. We plan to systematically review controlled clinical trials investigating weight loss diets alone compared to weight loss diets in conjunction with exercise on energy intake, body weight, body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, sex hormones, and mental health. Methods and analysis: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, ISI (Web of Science), Scopus, and Google Scholar will be searched to retrieve potential controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of exercise in conjunction with weight-loss diets compared with weight-loss diets alone on energy intake, body weight and composition (fat mass, fat-free mass), anthropometrics (waist circumference), cardiometabolic markers, sex hormones [testosterone, estradiol, and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG)], liver and kidney enzymes (alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), uric acid, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), quality of life and depression in adults. The weighted mean difference (WMD) and its corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) will be derived using random effects model. Several subgroup analyses such as gender, age, BMI, exercise protocol, and diet used for weight loss will be conducted to explore possible sources of heterogeneity. Publication bias will be explored by inspecting funnel plots and by conducting asymmetry tests. Overall quality of the evidence will be assessed by using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool.Discussion: We envisage that this systematic review and meta-analysis will provide valuable information regarding the effectiveness of adding exercise to weight-loss diets. No primary data is going to be collected, therefore ethical approval is not required. The resulting manuscripts will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and at international and national conferences.Systematic review registration: The study protocol is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, Registration ID: CRD42020173434).
Predictors of young people’s use of sexual and reproductive health services in Nigeria: a mixed-method approach
Authors: Odo Amelia Ngozi , OFUEBE Justina Ifeoma , ANIKE Anthony Ifeanyi , Samuel Efiong S
Published: October 2020

Background Sexual and Reproductive health Services (SRHS) are essential for prevention and control of SRH problems among young people and the achievement of sustainable development goal 3. These services may be available but certain factors interfere with their access and utilization by the young people. This study sought to determine factors that predict the utilization of SRHS among young people in Enugu State, Nigeria. Methods The study adopted mixed method research employing cross-sectional research design. The population of the study comprised young people within the ages of 12 and 22 years. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 1,447 young people used for the study. Questionnaire, in-depth interview, and focus group discussion were used for data collection. Percentages, Chi-square, and logistic regression were used to analyse quantitative data, while qualitative data were thematically analysed using NVivo software.ResultsSocio-demographic factors of gender, age, education, income and living status (p = < .05) were significant predictors of utilization of SRHS. Psycho-cultural and health system factors (p = < .05) were also significant predictors of utilization of SRHS.Conclusion The study concluded that some socio-demographic factors (of gender, age, level of education, income and living status), psycho-cultural and health system factors can be used to predict young people’s utilization of SRHS. These predictors could be addressed through home sex education, regular training of health care providers on youth-friendly services delivery and policy reforms.
COVID Term: A Bilingual Terminology for COVID-19
Authors: Ma Hetong , Shen Liu , Sun Haixia , Xu Zidu , Hou Li , Wu Sizhu , Fang An , Li Jiao , Qian Qing
Published: October 2020

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a pneumonia caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2) has shown its destructiveness with more than one million confirmed cases and dozens of thousands of death, which is highly contagious and still spreading globally. World-wide studies have been conducted aiming to understand the COVID-19 mechanism, transmission, clinical features, etc. A cross-language terminology of COVID-19 is essential for improving knowledge sharing and scientific discovery dissemination.Methods: We developed a bilingual terminology of COVID-19 named COVID Term with mapping Chinese and English terms. The terminology was constructed as follows: (1) Classification schema design; (2) Concept representation model building; (3) Term source selection and term extraction; (4) Hierarchical structure construction; (5) Quality control (6) Web service. We built open access for the terminology, providing search, browse, and download services. Results: The proposed COVID Term include 10 categories: disease, anatomic site, clinical manifestation, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, living organism, qualifiers, psychological assistance, medical equipment, instruments and materials, epidemic prevention and control, diagnosis and treatment technique respectively. In total, COVID Terms covered 464 concepts with 724 Chinese terms and 887 English terms. All terms are openly available online (COVID Term URL: http://covidterm.imicams.ac.cn ). Conclusions: COVID Term is a bilingual terminology focused on COVID-19, the epidemic pneumonia with a high risk of infection around the world. It will provide updated bilingual terms of the disease to help health providers and medical professionals retrieve and exchange information and knowledge in multiple languages. COVID Term was released in machine-readable formats (e.g., XML and JSON), which would contribute to the information retrieval, machine translation and advanced intelligent techniques application. Keywords: COVID-19, Terminology System, Bilingual, Medical Terminology
The association between obesity and weight loss after bariatric surgery on the vaginal microbiota
Authors: Raglan Olivia , MacIntyre David A. , Mitra Anita , Lee Yun S. , Smith Ann , Assi Nada , Nautiyal Jaya , Purkayastha Sanjay , Gunter Marc J , Gabra Hani , Marchesi Julian R. , Bennett Phillip R. , Kyrgiou Maria
Published: October 2020

Background: Obesity and vaginal microbiome (VMB) dysbiosis are each risk factors for adverse reproductive and oncological health outcomes in women. Here we investigated the relationship between obesity, vaginal bacterial composition, local inflammation and bariatric surgery.Methods: Vaginal bacterial composition assessed by high-throughput sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA genes and local cytokine levels measured using a multiplexed Magnetic Luminex Screening Assay were compared between 67 obese and 42 non-obese women. We further assessed temporal changes in the microbiota and cytokines in a subset of 27 women who underwent bariatric surgery. Results: The bacterial component of the vaginal microbiota in obese women was characterised by a lower prevalence of a Lactobacillus-dominant VMB and higher prevalence of a high diversity (Lactobacillus spp., and Gardnerella- spp. depleted) VMB, compared with non-obese subjects (p<0.001). Obese women had higher relative abundance of Dialister species (p<0.001), Anaerococcus vaginalis (p=0.021) and Prevotella timonensis (p=0.020) and decreased relative abundance of Lactobacillus crispatus (p=0.014). Local vaginal IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IFNγ, MIP-1α, and TNFα levels were all higher among obese women, however only IL-1β and IL-8 correlated with VMB species diversity. In a subset of obese women undergoing bariatric surgery, there were no significant overall differences in VMB following surgery, however 75% of these women remained obese at six months. Prior to surgery there was no relationship between body mass index (BMI) and VMB structure, however post-surgery women with a Lactobacillus-dominant VMB had a significantly lower BMI than those with a high diversity VMB.Conclusions: Obese women have a significantly different vaginal microbiota composition with increased levels of local inflammation compared to non-obese women. Bariatric surgery does not change the VMB, however, those with the greatest weight loss six-months post-surgery are most likely to have a Lactobacillus-dominant VMB.
Continuous Endometrial Volumetric Analysis for Endometrial Receptivity Assessment on Assisted Reproductive Technology Cycles
Authors: Martins Renato , Oliani Antonio Helio , Oliani Denise Vaz , de Oliveira Jose Martinez
Published: October 2020

Background: Human implantation is a complex process requiring synchrony between a healthy embryo and a functionally competent or receptive endometrium. In order to assess endometrial receptivity in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycles serial evaluation of endometrial volumetric analysis may have a predictive value on a positive outcome.Methods: Serial 3D transvaginal ultrasound performed in women on ART cycle to evaluate embryo implantation predictors. Prospective case control study of 169 subjects were assessed. Endometrial pattern, thickness, volume and adjusted endometrial volume (ratio between endometrial volume and uterine volume) was performed to all subjects on a continuous process from baseline, during controlled ovarian stimulation, trigger day with human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG) and at embryo transfer day.Results: Demographics and ART procedures and scores, was similar between the two groups. Endometrial morphology also showed no difference between the two groups. Endometrial volume and adjusted endometrial volume was significantly higher in the positive group as soon as day 6 of ovarian controlled stimulation.Conclusions: Serial 3D endometrial volume and adjusted endometrial volumes provides a predicting clinical tool enhancing elective embryo transfers in fresh ART cycle. Thus providing a non-invasive continuous technique for endometrial receptivity assessment that reflects endometrial changes during ART procedures.
Polymorphisms in the airway epithelium related genes CDHR3 and EMSY are associated with asthma susceptibility
Authors: Zhang Miao-miao , Chen Guo , Wang Yu , Wu Shou quan , Sandford Andrew J , He Jian-Qing
Published: October 2020

Background: As a main line of defense of the respiratory tract, the airway epithelium plays an important role in the pathogenesis of asthma. CDHR3 and EMSY were reported to be expressed in the human airway epithelium. Although previous genome-wide association studies found that the two genes were associated with asthma susceptibility, similar observations have not been made in the Chinese Han population. Methods: A total of 300 asthma patients and 418 healthy controls unrelated Chinese Han individuals were enrolled. Tag-single nucleotide polymorphisms (Tag-SNPs) were genotyped and the associations between SNPs and asthma risk were analyzed by binary logistic regression analysis. Results: After adjusting for confounding factors, the A allele of rs3847076 in CDHR3 was associated with increased susceptibility to asthma (OR = 1.407, 95% CI: 1.030-1.923). For the EMSY gene, the T alleles of both rs2508746 and rs12278256 were related with decreased susceptibility to asthma (additive model: OR = 0.718, 95% CI: 0.536-0.961; OR = 0.558, 95% CI: 0.332-0.937, respectively). In addition, the GG genotype of rs1892953 showed an association with increased asthma risk under the recessive model (OR = 1.667, 95% CI: 1.104-2.518) and the GATCTGAGT haplotype in EMSY was associated with reduced asthma risk ( P = 0.037). Conclusions: This study identified novel associations of rs3847076 in CDHR3 , as well as rs1892953, rs2508746 and rs12278256 in EMSY with adult asthma susceptibility in the Chinese Han population. Our observations suggest that CDHR3 and EMSY may play important roles in the pathogenesis of asthma in Chinese individuals. Further study with larger sample size is needed.
Validation of Coronal Mass Ejection Arrival-Time Forecasts by Magnetohydrodynamic Simulations based on Interplanetary Scintillation Observations
Authors: Iwai Kazumasa , Shiota Daikou , Tokumaru Munetoshi , Fujiki Ken'ichi , Den Mitsue , Kubo Yûki
Published: October 2020

Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) cause various disturbances of the space environment; therefore, forecasting their arrival time is very important. However, forecasting accuracy is hindered by limited CME observations in interplanetary space. This study investigates the accuracy of CME arrival times at the Earth forecasted by three-dimensional (3D) magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations based on interplanetary scintillation (IPS) observations. In this system, CMEs are approximated as spheromaks with various initial speeds. Ten MHD simulations with different CME initial speed are tested, and the density distributions derived from each simulation run are compared with IPS data observed by the Institute for Space-Earth Environmental Research (ISEE), Nagoya University. The CME arrival time of the simulation run that most closely agrees with the IPS data is selected as the forecasted time. We then validate the accuracy of this forecast using 12 halo CME events. The average absolute arrival-time error of the IPS-based MHD forecast is approximately 5.0 h, which is one of the most accurate predictions that ever been validated, whereas that of MHD simulations without IPS data, in which the initial CME speed is derived from white-light coronagraph images, is approximately 6.7 h. This suggests that the assimilation of IPS data into MHD simulations can improve the accuracy of CME arrival-time forecasts. The average predicted arrival times are earlier than the actual arrival times. These early predictions may be due to overestimation of the magnetic field included in the spheromak and/or underestimation of the drag force from the background solar wind, the latter of which could be related to underestimation of CME size or background solar wind density.
A standardized framework to evaluate the quality of studies using TDABC in healthcare: The TDABC in Healthcare Consortium Consensus Statement
Authors: Etges Ana Paula Beck da Silva , Polanczyk Carisi Anne , Urman Richard D.
Published: October 2020

Background: This Consensus Statement introduces a standardized framework, in a checklist format, to support future development and report of TDABC studies in healthcare, and to encourage their reproducibility. Additionally, it establishes the first formal networking of TDABC researchers through the creation of the TDABC for Health Care Consortium.Methods: A consensus group of researchers reviewed the most relevant TDABC studies available in Medline and Scopus databases to identify the initial elements of the checklist. Using a Focus Group process, each element received a recommendation regarding where in the scientific article section it should be placed and whether the element was required or suggested. A questionnaire was circulated with expert researchers in the field to provide additional recommendations regarding the content of the checklist and the strength of recommendation for each included element.Results: The TDABC standardized framework includes 32 elements, provides recommendations where in the scientific article to include each element, and the strength of each recommendation. All 32 elements were validated, with 21 elements classified as mandatory and 11 as suggested but not mandatory.Conclusions: This is the first standardized framework to support the development and reporting of TDABC research in healthcare and to stablish a community of experts in TDABC methodology. We expect that it can contribute to scale strategies that would result in cost-savings outcomes and in value-oriented strategies that can be adopted in healthcare systems and institutions.
Differences and similarities of high-resolution computed tomography features between pneumocystis pneumonia and cytomegalovirus pneumonia in AIDS patients
Authors: Du Chunjing , Liu Jingyuan , Chen Hui , Yan Shuo , Pu Lin , Xiong Haofeng , Xiang Pan , Li Chuansheng , Zhang Ming , Xie Ruming , Chen Budong , Li Ang
Published: October 2020

Background: Accurately differentiating pneumocystis from cytomegalovirus pneumonia is crucial for correct therapy selection in AIDS patients. Hence, the goal of this study was to compare the computerized tomography (CT ) features of pneumocystis pneumonia and cytomegalovirus pneumonia in AIDS patients and identify clinical hallmarks to accurately distinguish these two pathologies. Methods: A total of 112 AIDS patients (78 with pneumocystis pneumonia and 34 cytomegalovirus pneumonia) at Beijing Ditan Hospital from January 2017 to May 2019 were included in this study. Two experienced chest radiologists retrospectively reviewed CT images for 17 features including ground-glass opacity, consolidation, nodules, and halo sign. Binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the significant parameters that distinguished pneumocystis pneumonia from cytomegalovirus pneumonia. Correlations were analyzed by Pearson or Spearman correlation analyses. Result were considered significant if P < 0.05. Results: The presence of consolidation, halo signs, and nodules (all P ＜0.05) were significantly more frequent in patients with cytomegalovirus pneumonia than in those with pneumocystis pneumonia. Small nodules (32.5% in cytomegalovirus pneumonia, 6.41% in pneumocystis pneumonia, P ＜0.001) without perilymphatic distribution were particularly common in patients with cytomegalovirus pneumonia. Large nodules were not found in any of patients with cytomegalovirus pneumonia. The presence of ground-glass opacity, reticulation, and bronchial wall thickening (all P > 0.05) were common in both groups. Conclusions: Analysis of consolidation, nodules, and halo signs may contribute to the differential diagnosis of pneumocystis pneumonia or cytomegalovirus pneumonia. However, some CT features considered typical in one or other diseases appear with similar frequency in both cohorts of AIDS patients. CT features are potentially useful for the differential diagnosis of pneumocystis pneumonia and cytomegalovirus pneumonia in AIDS patients.
Evaluation of maize lodging resistance based on the critical wind speed of stalk breaking during the late growth stage
Authors: Xue Jun , Ming Bo , Xie Ruizhi , Wang Keru , Hou Peng , Li Shaokun
Published: October 2020

Background: The accurate evaluation of the stalk-lodging resistance during the late stage of maize growth can provide a basis for the selection of cultivars, the evaluation of cultivation techniques, and timely mechanical grain harvesting. In this study, the critical wind speed of stalk breaking, plant morphology, stalk mechanical strength, and lodging rate were investigated in 10 maize cultivars to identify the parameters evaluate lodging resistance during the later growth stage of maize . Clarify the relationship with the stalk mechanical strength, critical wind speed of stalk breaking, and natural lodging rate in the field. Results: The results showed that, in the late growth stage, with increasing number of days after physiological maturity, (1) the stalk lodging rate gradually increased, (2) the stalk breaking force and rind penetration strength (RPS) of the third internode above the soil gradually decreased, and (3) the critical wind speed of stalk breaking increased first and then decreased, and was highest at about 16–24 days after physiological maturity. The position of stalk lodging mostly occured betwen second and fifth internodes. The torque at the base of maize plant increased as wind speed increased, and ther different of torque was excited among different maize cultivars under same wind speed. Furthermore, the stalk lodging rate was significantly negatively correlated with the critical wind speed of stalk breaking. Additionally, the critical wind speed of stalk breaking was significantly positively correlated with the stalk breaking force and the RPS. Conclusion: This indicates that the critical wind speed of stalk breaking is a superior way to determine the stalk lodging resistance. These results suggest that, in the late growth stage, the decrease in the stalk mechanical strength is an important reason for the decrease in the critical wind speed of stalk breaking and the increase in the lodging rate.
Inhibitory control training improves ADHD symptoms and externalizing behavior 
Authors: Nejati Vahid , Fallah Fateme , Raskin Sarah
Published: October 2020

Background: The majority of cognitive and behavioral deficits in children with attention deficit- hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) originate from impaired inhibitory control. Methods: In the present study, thirty preschoolers with ADHD were recruited in a random clinical trial design in two equal control and intervention groups. The Color-Word Stroop test, Go/No- Go task, Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale, and Child Behavior Checklist were used for assessment at baseline, after intervention, and at one- month follow- up sessions. The program for attentive rehabilitation of inhibition and selective attention (PARISA) was used for intervention in 12-15 sessions. Results: The data demonstrate improvement in prepotent inhibition and interference control in the intervention group. Furthermore, the hyperactivity/ impulsivity symptoms were ameliorated and the externalizing behavioral problem were improved after intervention. Conclusion: Inhibitory control in preschoolers with ADHD is trainable and the benefit of training could be transferred to ADHD symptoms and externalizing behavior.Trial registration: IR.IAU.TMU.REC.1398.046.
Protocol for a systematic review on the experience of informal caregivers for people with a moderate to advanced dementia within a domestic home setting
Authors: James Charles , Walshe Catherine , Froggatt Katherine
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe knowledge about the experience of informal caregivers who provide care to people with moderate to advanced dementia in a domestic home setting is limited. A consequence of long hours of caregiving in addition to dealing with normal challenges of daily living is their experience of a poor quality of life. Some of their experiences may be described in terms of a feeling of powerlessness to make changes during care provision. This feeling may also suggest an experience of moral distress. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesise qualitative evidence relating to these experiences.MethodsThis review adopts a narrative synthesis approach. A search will be conducted for studies written in English language in the bibliographic databases MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Academic Search Complete covering periods from 1984 to present. Included studies will be qualitative or mixed method designs. The search terms will be related to dementia and caregivers, and the process will be focused on dementia at the moderate to the advanced stages within the domestic home-setting. Reference lists of included papers will also be searched for additional relevant citations. Search terms and strategy will be checked by two independent reviewers. The identification of abstracts and full texts of studies will be done by the author, while the quality and the risk of bias will also be checked by the two independent reviewers.DiscussionPsychological distress is cited as an experience reported within informal caregiving. For the caregiver, it is associated with a negative impact on general health. To date, no synthesis exists on the specific experience of informal caregiving for people with moderate to advanced dementia within the domestic home setting. This review considers that variation of accounts contributes to how the informal caregivers’ general experience is explored in future research. This may enable gaps in current knowledge to be highlighted within the wider context of caregiving in the domestic home setting.Systematic review registrationThis review was registered and published online in the PROSPERO database of systematic reviews (www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO registration number: #CRD42020183649).
Induction chemotherapy for the individualised treatment of hypopharyngeal carcinoma with cervical oesophageal invasion: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Tian-qiao , Wang Ru , Fang Ju-gao , He Shi-zhi , Zhong Qi , Hou Li-zhen , Ma Hong-zhi , Chen Xiao-hong , Chen Xue-jun , Li Ping-dong , Feng Ling , Shi Qian , Lian Meng
Published: October 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of induction chemotherapy as an indicator of the management of advanced hypopharyngeal carcinoma with cervical oesophageal invasion. Methods: Sixty-eight patients admitted to our hospital between February 2003 and November 2016 with stage IVB hypopharyngeal carcinoma with cervical oesophageal invasion were retrospectively analysed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the treatment they selected following an explanation of the different treatments available. Patients in Group A received induction chemotherapy and had (1) complete/partial remission following chemotherapy and radiotherapy/concurrent chemoradiotherapy or (2) stable disease following chemotherapy and surgery. Patients in Group B underwent surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy/concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Survival analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier method, and differences between the groups were evaluated using the log-rank test. Laryngeal and oesophageal retention rates were compared using the cross-tabulation test. Results: The 3- and 5-year overall survival rates were 22.86% and 11.43% in Group A and 24.25% and 6.06% in Group B, respectively (all P > 0.05). The laryngeal and oesophageal retention rates were 40.0% and 74.3% in Group A and 0.0% and 27.3% in Group B, respectively (all P < 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of post-operative complications between the two groups (Group A: 8.6%, Group B: 12.1%; P > 0.05). Conclusions: Induction chemotherapy may be an appropriate first choice to ensure laryngeal and oesophageal preservation in the individualised treatment of advanced hypopharyngeal carcinoma with cervical oesophageal invasion.
Tissue-Specific Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Lignocellulose Synthesis Regulation in Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.)
Authors: Zhang Wenqing , Zhang Shengkui , Lu Xianqin , Li Can , Liu Xingwang , Dong Geyu , Xia Tao
Published: October 2020

Background: The characteristics of elephant grass, especially its stem lignocellulose, are of great significance for its quality as feed or other industrial raw materials. However, the research on lignocellulose biosynthesis pathway and key genes is limited because the genome of elephant grass has not been deciphered.Results: In this study, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) combined with lignocellulose content analysis and cell wall morphology observation using elephant grass stems from different development stages as materials were applied to reveal the genes that regulate the synthesis of cellulose and lignin. A total of 3852 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in three periods of T1, T2, and T3 through RNA-seq analysis. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of all DEGs showed that the two most abundant metabolic pathways were phenylpropane metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, which were closely related to cell wall development, hemicellulose, lignin and cellulose synthesis. Through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of DEGs, a ‘blue’ module highly associated with cellulose synthesis and a ‘turquoise’ module highly correlated with lignin synthesis were exhibited. A total of 43 candidate genes were screened, of which 17 had function annotations in other species. Besides, by analyzing the content of lignocellulose in the stem tissues of elephant grass at different developmental stages and the expression levels of genes such as CesA, PAL, CAD, C4H, COMT, CCoAMT, F5H and CCR, it was found that the content of lignocellulose was related to the expression level of these structural genes.Conclusions: This study provides a basis for further understanding the molecular mechanisms of cellulose and lignin synthesis pathways of elephant grass, and offers a unique and extensive list of candidate genes for future specialized functional studies which may promote the development of high-quality elephant grass varieties with high cellulose and low lignin content.
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis-derived Phase Angle as a Determinant of Protein-energy Wasting and Frailty in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Saitoh Masakazu , Ogawa Masumi , Kondo Hisae , Suga Kiichi , Takahashi Tetsuya , Itoh Haruki , Tabata Yoichiro
Published: October 2020

Background: Phase angle (PA), measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) has been studied as indicator of nutritional status or muscle function in hemodialysis (HD) patients. It remains unclear if the phase angle is associated protein-energy wasting (PEW) or frailty, which are common complication in hemodialysis patients. The aim of this study is to determine whether BIA-derived PA is a marker of PEW or frailty in HD patients.Methods: This retrospective observational study included 116 adult HD patients (35% female, 64 ± 12 years of age) in a single dialysis center. Patients were classified according to the PA quartiles into four groups; 1) first quartile: PA<3.7°, 2) second quartile: PA 3.7-4.1°, 3) third quartile: PA 4.2-4.9°and 4) forth quartile: PA ≥ 5.0°. International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism (ISRNM) criteria and Japanese version of Cardiovascular Health Study (J-CHS) criteria were used to identify PEW and frailty.Results: The lower PA group was associated with a greater risk of PEW (35% vs. 24% vs. 21% vs. 3%; p=0.032), frailty (59% vs. 40% vs. 21% vs. 3%; p<0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the first quartile group was at a significantly greater risk of both PEW and frailty compared with the fourth quartile group after adjusting for other confounding factors.Conclusions: Lower PA was associated with a greater risk of PEW and frailty in HD patients.