bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Access to Psychological Support for Young People Following Stoma Surgery: Exploring Patients’ and Clinicians’ Perspectives
Authors: Polidano Kay , Chew-Graham Carolyn A. , Farmer Adam D. , Saunders Benjamin
Published: November 2020

Psychological problems are common among people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) following stoma surgery. However, the ways in which stoma-related psychological needs are identified and addressed in health care settings remain unexplored. In this study, we investigated the perspectives of young people with a stoma and health care professionals about access to psychological support. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with young people with an IBD stoma (18–29 years, n = 13) and health care professionals ( n = 15), including colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, specialist nurses in IBD and stoma care, and general practitioners in England. Data collection and analysis were informed by constructivist grounded theory. Three analytic categories were developed: “initiating support-seeking,” “affirming psychological needs,” and “mobilizing psychological support,” which capture young peoples’ trajectory to access psychological support. Based on the findings, we highlight the need for both patients and health care professionals to assign greater priority to the identification of psychological symptoms post-stoma surgery. More effective care pathways, which include responsive psychological services, would enhance access to psychological support for young people with a stoma.
A Critical Evaluation of Newer β-Lactam Antibiotics for Treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections
Authors: Blomquist Kathleen C. , Nix David E.
Published: November 2020

Objective:

This article critically evaluates common Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistance mechanisms and the properties newer β-lactam antimicrobials possess to evade these mechanisms.

Data Sources:

An extensive PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov search was conducted (January 1995 to July 2020) to identify relevant literature on epidemiology, resistance mechanisms, antipseudomonal agents, newer β-lactam agents, and clinical data available pertaining to P aeruginosa.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Relevant published articles and package inserts were reviewed for inclusion.

Data Synthesis:

Therapeutic options to treat P aeruginosa infections are limited because of its intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms. The goal was to identify advances with newer β-lactams and characterize improvements in therapeutic potential for P aeruginosa infections.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice:

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) P aeruginosa isolates are increasingly encountered from a variety of infections. This review highlights potential activity gains of newer β-lactam antibacterial drugs and the current clinical data to support their use. Pharmacists will be asked to recommend or evaluate the use of these agents and need to be aware of information specific to P aeruginosa, which differs from experience derived from Enterobacterales infections.

Conclusions:

Newer agents, including ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, imipenem-relebactam, and cefiderocol, are useful for the treatment of MDR P aeruginosa infections. These agents offer improved efficacy and less toxicity compared with aminoglycosides and polymyxins and can be used for pathogens that are resistant to first-line antipseudomonal β-lactams. Selection of one agent over another should consider availability, turnaround of susceptibility testing, and product cost. Efficacy data specific for pseudomonal infections are limited, and there are no direct comparisons between the newer agents.
Association of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin II Blockers With Severity of COVID-19: A Multicenter, Prospective Study
Authors: Hakeam Hakeam A. , Alsemari Muhannad , Duhailib Zainab Al , Ghonem Leen , Alharbi Saad A. , Almutairy Eid , Sheraim Nader M. Bin , Alsalhi Meshal , Alhijji Ali , AlQahtani Sara , Khalid Mohammed , Barry Mazin
Published: November 2020

Background:

Speculations whether treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) predisposes to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) or worsens its outcomes. This study assessed the association of ACE-I/ARB therapy with the development of severe COVID-19.

Methods:

This multi-center, prospective study enrolled patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and receiving one or more antihypertensive agents to manage either hypertension or cardiovascular disease. ACE-I/ARB therapy associations with severe COVID-19 on the day of hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, mechanical ventilation and in-hospital death on follow-up were tested using a multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for age, obesity, and chronic illnesses. The composite outcome of mechanical ventilation and death was examined using the adjusted Cox multivariate regression model.

Results:

Of 338 enrolled patients, 245 (72.4%) were using ACE-I/ARB on the day of hospital admission, and 197 continued ACE-I/ARB therapy during hospitalization. Ninety-eight (29%) patients had a severe COVID-19, which was not significantly associated with the use of ACE-I/ARB (OR 1.17, 95% CI 0.66-2.09; P = .57). Prehospitalization ACE-I/ARB therapy was not associated with ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, or in-hospital death. Continuing ACE-I/ARB therapy during hospitalization was associated with decreased mortality (OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.073-0.67; P = .008). ACE-I/ARB use was not associated with developing the composite outcome of mechanical ventilation and in-hospital death (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.51-1.78; P = .87) versus not using ACE-I/ARB.

Conclusion:

Patients with hypertension or cardiovascular diseases receiving ACE-I/ARB therapy are not at increased risk for severe COVID-19 on admission to the hospital. ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and mortality are not associated with ACE-I/ARB therapy. Maintaining ACE-I/ARB therapy during hospitalization for COVID-19 lowers the likelihood of death.

Clinical Trial Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT4357535.
Stakeholder Engagement IN The Hospitality Industry: An Analysis Of Communication In Smes And Large Hotels
Authors: Vrontis Demetris , Iazzi Antonio , Maizza Amedeo , Cavallo Federica
Published: November 2020

This research presents an evaluation model for the communication of stakeholder engagement (SE) process, a relevant aspect able to enhance firms’ social legitimacy and reputation. Stakeholder involvement is a main component in the corporate social responsibility activities of companies. Drawing on academic literature, international standards and guidelines on SE, a scoring model was created, with the aim to verify companies’ attention to the SE communication process. To test the scoring model, a thematic content analysis was conducted on international hotel companies’ sustainability reports that were published in 2017 in adherence to the Global Reporting Initiative, as well as on their websites. The results show a greater use of sustainability reports for the communication of the SE. The study confirms that large companies are more attention to SE. Hotels inform their stakeholders, but are not ready for their involvement. The research offers a contribution to improve the management of relations with stakeholders and their involvement in the value co-creation. The study highlights the areas that can be strengthened to improve the SE activities and their communication.
Complications and survival after subcutaneous ureteral bypass device placement in 24 cats: a retrospective study (2016–2019)
Authors: Vrijsen Emily , Devriendt Nausikaa , Mortier Femke , Stock Emmelie , Van Goethem Bart , de Rooster Hilde
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to document survival, complications and risk factors for the development of complications and mortality prior to discharge after placement of a subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) device in cats.

Methods

The medical records of cats with SUB placement between January 2016 and August 2019 were retrospectively analysed. The development of complications (overall, intraoperative, perioperative, short- and long-term complications) and risk factors for mortality prior to discharge were statistically assessed with univariate binary logistic regression. All variables with a P value ⩽0.10 in the univariate analysis were assessed in a multivariate model. Variables were significant if P <0.05.

Results

Twenty-four cats were included; 12 (50.0%) received a unilateral SUB, 11 (45.8%) a bilateral nephrostomy tube with single cystostomy catheter and the remaining cat (4.2%) two unilateral SUBs. Nearly 80% of the cats developed complications, ranging from mild to fatal, including (partial) SUB obstruction (33.3% of complications), lower urinary tract infection (20.8%), pyelonephritis (20.8%) and sterile cystitis (12.5%). Five cats (20.8%) died prior to discharge. Six cats (25.0%) underwent revision surgery. The overall median survival time (MST) was 274 days (range 1–311 days). Complications were most common in the long-term period (14/16 cats), followed by the short-term (9/18 cats), perioperative (10/23 cats) and intraoperative (4/24 cats) periods. Older cats had an increased risk for developing perioperative complications ( P = 0.045) and were less likely to survive to discharge ( P = 0.033). An increased haematocrit at presentation was a risk factor for the occurrence of short-term complications ( P = 0.03).

Conclusions and relevance

Although complications similar to those previously described were observed, the complication rate was higher and the MST shorter than previously reported in cats undergoing SUB placement. Despite good short-term survival, the development of complications may necessitate regular and intensive control visits. Owners that consider SUB placement should be informed that follow-up can be strenuous and expensive.
Asbestos Contamination in Talc-Based Cosmetics: An Invisible Cancer Risk
Authors: Stoiber Tasha , Fitzgerald Sean , Leiba Nneka S
Published: November 2020

The lack of regulation and adequate testing of talc-containing personal care products in the U.S. has resulted in the contamination of cosmetics with asbestos. As such, the true exposure of consumers to asbestos is poorly characterized and likely underestimated. In this study, transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that 3 of 21 powder-based cosmetic products tested were contaminated with amphibole asbestos. One of these contaminated products is expressly marketed for use by children. The presence of asbestos found in products demonstrates the urgency to revise cosmetics policy. Further, talc-based cosmetics may be an overlooked and difficult to characterize source of exposure to asbestos, a known carcinogen.
Identification and analysis of immune-related subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Qimeng , Huang Jin , Zhang Huihua , Liu Huan , Yu Min
Published: November 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignance that remains difficult to cure. Immunotherapy has shown its potential application in a variety of refractory malignancies. Due to the complexity of immune microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma, the efficacy of immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma is not as effective as expected. Expression data of hepatocellular carcinoma from the TCGA and ICGC databases were used for classification and verification of hepatocellular carcinoma subtypes. The immune-related functions and pathways were identified via gene set enrichment analysis, while the sections denoting the subsets of the immune cells were estimated using the CIBERSORT algorithm. Immunity low (Immunity_L), immunity medium (Immunity_M), and immunity high (Immunity_H) were specified as the three immune-related subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma. The quantity of stromal and immune cells was the most substantial in Immunity_H, compared to the other subtypes. Interestingly, the proportion of M0 macrophages decreased from Immunity_L to Immunity_H, while the proportion of CD8 T cells increased. Furthermore, the HLA genes expression levels, as well as those of six immune checkpoint genes were substantially lower in Immunity_L than in Immunity_H. Functional analysis was performed for 1512 differentially expressed genes between Immunity_L and Immunity_H. Finally, the PPI network was constructed with 118 nodes. The highest connectivity degree nodes were B2M, HLA-DRA, and HLA-DRB1. The above results were verified in ICGC-JP and ICGC-FR databases with a consistent trend. In this study, we divided hepatocellular carcinoma into three subtypes and explored the immune-related characteristics of these subtypes. These results may provide new insights for immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Antimicrobial prophylaxis in adult cardiac surgery in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland
Authors: Ackah James Kofi , Neal Louise , Marshall Neil R , Panahi Pedram , Lloyd Clinton , Rogers Luke J
Published: November 2020

Background:

Deep sternal wound infections are a financially costly complication of cardiac surgery with serious implications for patient morbidity and mortality. Prophylactic antimicrobials have been shown to reduce the incidence of infection significantly. In 2018, the European Association for CardioThoracic Surgery (EACTS) provided clear guidance advising that third-generation cephalosporins are the first-line prophylactic antimicrobial of choice for cardiac surgery via median sternotomy as a result of their broad spectrum of activity and association with reduced postoperative mortality. Despite this guidance, it was believed that UK practice differed from this as a consequence of national concerns surrounding cephalosporins use and Clostridioides difficile infection.

Methods:

A survey was developed and distributed to all UK and Republic of Ireland (ROI) cardiac surgery centres in January 2019 to quantify this variation.

Results:

Of the 38 centres, 34 responded. Variation existed between the antimicrobial agent used, as well as the dosage, frequency and duration of suggested regimens even among centres using the same antimicrobial agent. The most common antimicrobial prophylaxis prescribed was a combination of flucloxacillin and gentamicin (16, 47%). Followed by cefuroxime (6, 17.6%) and cefuroxime combined with a glycopeptide (4, 11.7%). In patients colonised with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or those with penicillin allergy gentamicin combined with teicoplanin was most common (42% and 50%, respectively).

Discussion:

This variation in antimicrobial agents and regimens may well contribute to the varying incidence of surgical site infection seen across the UK and ROI.
Efficacy of high-dose anakinra in refractory macrophage activation syndrome in adult-onset Still’s disease: when dosage matters in overcoming secondary therapy resistance
Authors: Ajeganova Sofia , De Becker Ann , Schots Rik
Published: November 2020

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a severe, potentially fatal complication of rheumatic diseases. This case demonstrates the significant challenges and therapeutic considerations in adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) complicated with MAS at initial presentation, which will be discussed. MAS in our patient was refractory to the first-line therapy with high-dose corticosteroids, early administration of anakinra at a standard dosage and subsequent add-on treatments with cyclosporine A, IVIG, etoposides and tocilizumab. At 2 months after presentation, the patient was still critically ill with clinical, laboratory and histological signs of an active uncontrolled MAS. Notably, adoption of anakinra at a high dosage finally induced remission. This case confirms that adjusted dosage of anakinra is an effective therapeutic strategy in a severe AOSD-related MAS. It is tempting to speculate that anakinra at a high dosage, if used earlier, would have significantly changed the course of the disease in our patient and could have led to earlier remission.
Characterization, Release Pattern, and Cytotoxicity of Liposomes Loaded With α-Mangostin Isolated From Pericarp of Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.)
Authors: Trang Phan Thi Kieu , Tran Toan Quoc , Nguyen Pham Dung Thuy , Nguyen Duong Thanh
Published: November 2020

The pericarp of Garcinia mangostana L. is a rich source of α-mangostin, which exhibits a wide range of pharmacological and biological activities. However, clinical use of this compound is limited due to its low water solubility. Therefore, its formulation with various delivery systems has been developed. In the present study, α-mangostin was isolated from G. mangostana pericarp extract and loaded onto newly synthesized liposomes. The system was evaluated for in vitro drug release at pH 5.5 and 7.4 during 96 hours of experiment, followed by cytotoxicity measurement against Hep-G2 cells. α-Mangostin was obtained in a high yield (1.86%) and its chemical structure was confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The compound was then loaded onto liposomes with relatively high efficiency (55.3% ± 2.3%). The compound was released in a sustained manner and exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against Hep-G2 cells. The present study provides important insights into liposome applications for α-mangostin delivery, thus improving the compound’s limitations and enabling further in vivo studies on its safety and efficacy.
Autoethnography That Moves the Soul: Activating the Creative in Troubled Times
Authors: Callier Durell M. , Hill Dominique C.
Published: November 2020

This essay uses autopoetic narrative and reflexivity to unpack the possibilities of autoethnographic research and writing rooted in the spirit of collaboration. We reflect on the experience of a workshop centering collaborative autoethnography. Specifically, our reflection attunes to the affective and viscerality generated during and after collective exploration of the stakes within the moment. Overall, the essay explores (re)membering contentious realities of home, navigating the weight to produce under the constraints of systemic oppression , and the challenges of working together and in community.
A Novel Planning Method of Urban Building Wastes for Environment Protection and Sustainable Development
Authors: Bai Xiao-ping , Wang Xiu-weng
Published: November 2020

The building construction wastes seriously polluted the environment; building construction wastes and the recycling of green packaging materials are the important link of environment protection and sustainable development. The building construction wastes have complicated composition. Some of them can be recycled by simply sorting, but most urban building construction wastes require special separation or reprocessing. Therefore, building an efficient and practical building construction wastes multilevel utilization recycling system to resolve the recycling problems of building construction wastes is meaningful. By systematically analyzing the grading recycling system of building construction wastes, this article uses systems engineering, logistics theory, resources recycling science, management science, and other related methods and knowledge to establish a novel nonlinear programming (LP) intelligence planning analysis model for a complex reverse logistics transportation system composed of three-level recycling parts of the building construction wastes, and applies a practical example to propose the solving method of new models based on genetic algorithms and LINGO software. The presented new model and its detailed solving method can help us find the best recycling scheme from urban building construction wastes, and it has great significance for the sustainable development in building construction enterprises.
A study on the outcome of displaced midshaft non-comminuted clavicle fractures treated with anatomical locking plate versus titanium elastic nail
Authors: Abraham Vineet Thomas , Marimuthu Chandrasekaran
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

Fixation of displaced midshaft clavicle is well known to decrease nonunion, malunion and shoulder disability as compared to nonoperative treatment. This study was done to compare the clinical and functional outcome of group 1 clavicle fractures treated with anatomic locking plates (ALP) versus Titanium elastic nail (TEN).

Methods:

We studied patients presenting with displaced midshaft clavicle fractures treated with ALP or TEN. The study period was from Jan 2013 to Dec 2016. Patients were reviewed and at each visit clinical and radiological progress of union was noted, complications if any were noted, functional assessment was done using the quick Dash score and Constant Murley score.

Results:

A total of 116 patients met our inclusion criteria. 62 patients were treated with TEN and 54 with ALP. Bony union was achieved at an average of 11.8 weeks in the TENS group and 12.8 weeks in the ALP group post operatively and this was found to be significant. The mean postoperative Constant Murley score in the ALP and the TEN groups were 92.8 (range 80–97), and 93.7 (82–97) respectively. The mean postoperative quick dash score in the ALP and TEN groups were 2.48(range from 0 to 6.8) and 2.1 (range 0–9.1) respectively.

Conclusion:

Both Anatomical locking plate and TEN are good options for the treatment of non-comminuted mid clavicular fractures as they have a similar functional outcome. TEN nail insertion has the advantage of being minimally invasive, having a faster union time and may be recommended in midshaft clavicle fractures without comminution.
Bacteremia Secondary to Uncommon Gram-Negative Bacilli Transmitted From the Canine in a Patient With Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Konala Venu Madhav , Naramala Srikanth , Bose Subhashish , Gayam Vijay , Madhira Bhaskar Reddy , Adapa Sreedhar
Published: November 2020

Sphingobacterium multivorum is a gram-negative rod found in the environment and rarely associated with human infections. Sphingobacterium is the causative agent of infections in an immunocompromised host in most cases. We report a rare case of cellulitis in an immunocompromised host by Sphingobacterium multivorum.
Silencing long non-coding RNA XIST suppresses drug resistance in acute myeloid leukemia through down-regulation of MYC by elevating microRNA-29a expression
Authors: Wang Chong , Li Lingling , Li Mengya , Wang Weiqiong , Liu Yanfang , Wang Shujuan
Published: November 2020

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are biomarkers participating in multiple disease development including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Here, we investigated molecular mechanism of X Inactive-Specific Transcript (XIST) in regulating cellular viability, apoptosis and drug resistance in AML.

Methods

XIST, miR-29a and myelocytomatosis oncogene (MYC) expression in AML bone marrow cells collected from 62 patients was evaluated by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis. Besides, the relationship among XIST, miR-29a and MYC was analyzed by dual luciferase reporter assay, RIP, and RNA pull down assays. AML KG-1 cells were treated with anti-tumor drug Adriamycin. The role of XIST/miR-29a/MYC in cellular viability, apoptosis and drug resistance in AML was accessed via gain- and loss-of-function approaches. At last, we evaluated role of XIST/miR-29a/MYC on tumorigenesis in vivo.

Results

XIST and MYC were up-regulated, and miR-29a was down-regulated in AML bone marrow cells. Silencing XIST inhibited cellular activity and drug resistance but promoted cellular apoptosis of KG-1 cells by down-regulating MYC. XIST inhibited miR-29a expression to up-regulate MYC. Moreover, silencing XIST inhibited tumorigenesis of AML cells in vivo.

Conclusions

Overall, down-regulation of XIST decreased MYC expression through releasing the inhibition on miR-29a, thereby reducing drug resistance, inhibiting viability and promoting apoptosis of AML cells.
Identifying rare variants for quantitative traits in extreme samples of population via Kullback-Leibler distance
Authors: Xiang Yang , Xiang Xinrong , Li Yumei
Published: November 2020

Background

The rapid development of sequencing technology and simultaneously the availability of large quantities of sequence data has facilitated the identification of rare variant associated with quantitative traits. However, existing statistical methods depend on certain assumptions and thus lacking uniform power. The present study focuses on mapping rare variant associated with quantitative traits.

Results

In the present study, we proposed a two-stage strategy to identify rare variant of quantitative traits using phenotype extreme selection design and Kullback-Leibler distance, where the first stage was association analysis and the second stage was fine mapping. We presented a statistic and a linkage disequilibrium measure for the first stage and the second stage, respectively. Theory analysis and simulation study showed that (1) the power of the proposed statistic for association analysis increased with the stringency of the sample selection and was affected slightly by non-causal variants and opposite effect variants, (2) the statistic here achieved higher power than three commonly used methods, and (3) the linkage disequilibrium measure for fine mapping was independent of the frequencies of non-causal variants and simply dependent on the frequencies of causal variants.

Conclusions

We conclude that the two-stage strategy here can be used effectively to mapping rare variant associated with quantitative traits.
A new nomogram for individualized prediction of the probability of hemorrhagic transformation after intravenous thrombolysis for ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Wu Yaya , Chen Hui , Liu Xueyun , Cai Xiuying , Kong Yan , Wang Hui , Zhou Yun , Zhu Juehua , Zhang Lulu , Fang Qi , Li Tan
Published: November 2020

Background

A reliable scoring tool to detect the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) after intravenous thrombolysis for ischemic stroke is warranted. The present study was designed to develop and validate a new nomogram for individualized prediction of the probability of hemorrhagic transformation (HT) in patients treated with intravenous (IV) recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA).

Methods

We enrolled patients who suffered from acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with IV rt-PA treatment in our emergency green channel between August 2016 and July 2018. The main outcome was defined as any type of intracerebral hemorrhage according to the European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II (ECASS II). All patients were randomly divided into two cohorts: the primary cohort and the validation cohort. On the basis of multivariate logistic model, the predictive nomogram was generated. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated by Harrell’s concordance index (C-index) and calibration plot.

Results

A total of 194 patients with complete data were enrolled, of whom 131 comprised the primary cohort and 63 comprised the validation cohort, with HT rate 12.2, 9.5% respectively. The score of chronic disease scale (CDS), the global burden of cerebral small vascular disease (CSVD), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥ 13, and onset-to-treatment time (OTT) ≥ 180 were detected important determinants of ICH and included to construct the nomogram. The nomogram derived from the primary cohort for HT had C- Statistics of 0.9562 and the calibration plot revealed generally fit in predicting the risk of HT. Furthermore, we made a comparison between our new nomogram and several other risk-assessed scales for HT with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and the results showed the nomogram model gave an area under curve of 0.9562 (95%CI, 0.9221–0.9904, P < 0.01) greater than HAT (Hemorrhage After Thrombolysis), SEDAN (blood Sugar, Early infarct and hyper Dense cerebral artery sign on non-contrast computed tomography, Age, and NIHSS) and SPAN-100 (Stroke Prognostication using Age and NIHSS) scores.

Conclusions

This proposed nomogram based on the score of CDS, the global burden of CSVD, NIHSS score ≥ 13, and OTT ≥ 180 gives rise to a more accurate and more comprehensive prediction for HT in patients with ischemic stroke receiving IV rt-PA treatment.
Feasibility and safety of exercise training and nutritional support prior to haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with haematologic malignancies
Authors: Rupnik Erik , Skerget Matevz , Sever Matjaz , Zupan Irena Preloznik , Ogrinec Maja , Ursic Barbara , Kos Natasa , Cernelc Peter , Zver Samo
Published: November 2020

Background

Prehabilitation with regular exercise and nutritional care for patients undergoing surgeries for malignant disease was recently introduced to increase physiologic reserve prior to the procedure, accelerate recovery and improve outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and safety of combined exercise training and nutritional support in patients with haematologic malignancies prior to haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

In this single-arm pilot study, 34 HSCT candidates were enrolled at least two weeks before admission for the procedure. Patients performed aerobic exercises at least 4 days per week for 20–30 min and strength exercises 3 days per week for 10–20 min. They received daily supplements of whey protein (0.3–0.4 g/kg body weight) and oral nutritional supplements if needed. The primary endpoints were feasibility (acceptability > 75%, attrition < 20%, adherence > 66%) and safety. The secondary endpoints were fat-free mass (FFM), muscle strength, physical performance and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) at HSCT.

Results

The rate of acceptability, attrition and adherence to aerobic exercise, strength exercise and protein supplement consumption was 82.4, 17.8, 71, 78 and 80%, respectively. No severe adverse events were reported. Twenty-eight patients participated in the study for a median of 6.0 weeks (range, 2–14). They performed aerobic exercises 4.5 days per week for 132 min per week and strength exercises 3.0 times per week. Patients consumed 20.7 g of extra protein daily. At the end of the programme, we recorded increases of 1.1 kg in FFM (p = 0.011), 50 m in walking distance in the 6-min walking test (6MWT) (p < 0.001), 3.3 repetitions in the 30-s chair-stand test (30sCST) score (p < 0.001) and 2.6 kg in handgrip strength (p = 0.006). The EORTC QLQ-C30 scores improved by 8.6 (p < 0.006) for global health status, 8.3 (p = 0.009) for emotional functioning, and 12.1 (p = 0.014) for social functioning. There was less fatigue, nausea and insomnia (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study shows that a multimodal intervention programme with partially supervised exercise training combined with nutritional support prior to HSCT is feasible and safe. Patients showed improvements in FFM, physical performance and HRQoL. Additional research is needed to assess the possible positive effects of such interventions.
Correction to: Identification of ALDH3A2 as a novel prognostic biomarker in gastric adenocarcinoma using integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yin Zhenhua , Wu Dejun , Shi Jianping , Wei Xiyi , Jin Nuyun , Lu Xiaolan , Ren Xiaohan
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Patient-centered care during the last year of life: adaptation and validation of the German PACIC short form for bereaved persons as proxies (PACIC-S9-proxy)
Authors: Vennedey Vera , Dust Gloria , Schippel Nicolas , Shukri Arim , Strupp Julia , Rietz Christian , Voltz Raymond , Stock Stephanie
Published: November 2020

Background

Providing patient-centered care (PCC) during the last year of life (LYOL) can be challenging due to the complexity of the patients’ medical, social and psychological needs, especially in case of chronic illnesses. Assessing PCC can be helpful in identifying areas for improvements. Since not all patients can be surveyed, a questionnaire for proxy informants was developed in order to retrospectively assess patient-centeredness in care during the whole LYOL. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and validity of an adapted version of the German Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (PACIC) for surveying bereaved persons in order to assess PCC during the decedents’ LYOL.

Methods

The German PACIC short form (11 items) was adapted to a nine-item version for surveying bereaved persons on the decedent’s LYOL (PACIC-S9-Proxy). Items were rated on a five-point Likert scale. The PACIC adaptation and validation was part of a cross-sectional survey in the region of Cologne. Participants were recruited through self-selection and active recruitment by practice partners. Sociodemographic characteristics and missing data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted in order to assess the structure of the PACIC-S9-Proxy. Internal consistency was estimated using Cronbach’s alpha.

Results

Of the 351 informants who participated in the survey, 230 (65.52%) considered their decedent to have suffered from chronic illness prior to death. 193 of these informants (83.91%) completed ≥5 items of the questionnaire and were included in the analysis. The least answered item was item (74.09%) was item 4 (encouragement to group & classes for coping). The most frequently answered item (96.89%) was item 2 (satisfaction with care organization). Informants rated the item” Given a copy of their treatment plan” highest (mean 3.96), whereas “encouragement to get to a specific group or class to cope with the condition” (mean 1.74) was rated lowest. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.84. A unidimensional structure of the questionnaire was found (Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin 0.86, Bartlett’s test for sphericityp < 0.001), with items’ factor loadings ranging from 0.46 to 0.82.

Conclusions

The nine-item questionnaire can be used as efficient tool for assessing PCC during the LYOL retrospectively and by proxies.

Trial registration

The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00011925) on 13 June 2017.
System-wide molecular dynamics of endothelial dysfunction in Gram-negative sepsis
Authors: Gallart-Palau Xavier , Serra Aida , Sze Siu Kwan
Published: November 2020

Background

Inflammation affecting whole organism vascular networks plays a central role in the progression and establishment of several human diseases, including Gram-negative sepsis. Although the molecular mechanisms that control inflammation of specific vascular beds have been partially defined, knowledge lacks on the impact of these on the molecular dynamics of whole organism vascular beds. In this study, we have generated an in vivo model by coupling administration of lipopolysaccharide with stable isotope labeling in mammals to mimic vascular beds inflammation in Gram-negative sepsis and to evaluate its effects on the proteome molecular dynamics. Proteome molecular dynamics of individual vascular layers (glycocalyx (GC), endothelial cells (EC), and smooth muscle cells (SMC)) were then evaluated by coupling differential systemic decellularization in vivo with unbiased systems biology proteomics.

Results

Our data confirmed the presence of sepsis-induced disruption of the glycocalyx, and we show for the first time the downregulation of essential molecular maintenance processes in endothelial cells affecting this apical vascular coating. Similarly, a novel catabolic phenotype was identified in the newly synthesized EC proteomes that involved the impairment of protein synthesis, which affected multiple cellular mechanisms, including oxidative stress, the immune system, and exacerbated EC-specific protein turnover. In addition, several endogenous molecular protective mechanisms involving the synthesis of novel antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory proteins were also identified as active in EC. The molecular dynamics of smooth muscle cells in whole organism vascular beds revealed similar patterns of impairment as those identified in EC, although this was observed to a lesser extent. Furthermore, the dynamics of protein posttranslational modifications showed disease-specific phosphorylation sites in the EC proteomes.

Conclusions

Together, the novel findings reported here provide a broader picture of the molecular dynamics that take place in whole organism vascular beds in Gram-negative sepsis inflammation. Similarly, the obtained data can pave the way for future therapeutic strategies aimed at intervening in specific protein synthesis mechanisms of the vascular unit during acute inflammatory processes.
Robotic versus laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Jianglei , Li Xiaoyao , Zhao Shifu , Zhang Ruifu , Yang Dejun
Published: November 2020

Background

To date, robotic surgery has been widely used worldwide. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate short-term and long-term outcomes of robotic gastrectomy (RG) in gastric cancer patients to determine whether RG can replace laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG).

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was applied to perform the study. Pubmed, Cochrane Library, WanFang, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and VIP databases were comprehensively searched for studies published before May 2020 that compared RG with LG. Next, two independent reviewers conducted literature screening and data extraction. The quality of the literature was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and the data analyzed using the Review Manager 5.3 software. Random effects or fixed effects models were applied according to heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 19 studies including 7275 patients were included in the meta-analyses, of which 4598 patients were in the LG group and 2677 in the RG group. Compared with LG, RG was associated with longer operative time (WMD = −32.96, 95% CI −42.08 ~ −23.84, P < 0.001), less blood loss (WMD = 28.66, 95% CI 18.59 ~ 38.73, P < 0.001), and shorter time to first flatus (WMD = 0.16 95% CI 0.06 ~ 0.27, P = 0.003). There was no significant difference between RG and LG in terms of the hospital stay (WMD = 0.23, 95% CI −0.53 ~ 0.98, P = 0.560), overall postoperative complication (OR = 1.07, 95% CI 0.91 ~ 1.25, P = 0.430), mortality (OR = 0.67, 95% CI 0.24 ~ 1.90, P = 0.450), the number of harvested lymph nodes (WMD = −0.96, 95% CI −2.12 ~ 0.20, P = 0.100), proximal resection margin (WMD = −0.10, 95% CI −0.29 ~ 0.09, P = 0.300), and distal resection margin (WMD = 0.15, 95% CI −0.21 ~ 0.52, P = 0.410). No significant differences were found between the two treatments in overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.76 ~ 1.18, P = 0.640), recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 0.91, 95% CI 0.69 ~ 1.21, P = 0.530), and recurrence rate (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.67 ~ 1.21, P = 0.500).

Conclusions

The results of this study suggested that RG is as acceptable as LG in terms of short-term and long-term outcomes. RG can be performed as effectively and safely as LG. Moreover, more randomized controlled trials comparing the two techniques with rigorous study designs are still essential to evaluate the value of the robotic surgery for gastric cancer.
LncRNA NEAT1/microRNA-129-5p/SOCS2 axis regulates liver fibrosis in alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Ye Junfeng , Lin Yuanqiang , Yu Ying , Sun Di
Published: November 2020

Background

Long non-coding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) has been reported to play an essential role in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, the role of NEAT1 in regulation of alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) remains largely unknown. This study aims to explore the role of NEAT1 in ASH by mediating microRNA-129-5p (miR-129-5p) targeting suppressor of cytokine signaling 2 (SOCS2).

Methods

NEAT1, miR-129-5p and SOCS2 expression in serum of ASH patients were assessed. In the in vitro cellular experiment, we transfected siRNAs, oligonucleotides or plasmids into ethanol-induced AML-12 mouse hepatocytes to alter NEAT1 and miR-129-5p expression, and inflammatory factors and lipid content were determined. In the in vivo animal experiment, we injected lentiviruses carrying siRNAs, oligonucleotides or plasmids onto ASH mice (ASH induced by feeding mice a Lieber-DeCarli ethanol diet) to alter NEAT1 and miR-129-5p expression through the tail vein. Serum liver function, blood lipids and inflammatory factors were detected; liver histopathology, liver cell apoptosis, and fibrosis were observed. The relationship between NEAT1 and miR-129-5p, or between miR-129-5p and SOCS2 was verified.

Results

MiR-129-5p was reduced while NEAT1 and SOCS2 were elevated in ASH. Inhibited NEAT1 or elevated miR-129-5p suppressed the elevated lipid metabolism and restrained inflammation reaction in ethanol-stimulated AML-12 cells. The promoted miR-129-5p and inhibited NEAT1 could improve the liver function and repress blood lipid, inflammation reaction, hepatocyte apoptosis and liver fibrosis in ethanol-induced ASH mice. Furthermore, NEAT1 could negatively regulate miR-129-5p to target SOCS2.

Conclusion

We have found that the inhibited NEAT1 could suppress liver fibrosis in ASH mice by promoting miR-129-5p and restraining SOCS2, thereby decelerating the development of ASH.
Correction to: BCG revaccination of health workers in Brazil to improve innate immune responses against COVID-19: A structured summary of a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Junqueira-Kipnis Ana Paula , dos Anjos Laura Raniere Borges , de Souza Barbosa Lília Cristina , da Costa Adeliane Castro , Borges Kellen Christina Malheiros , da Rocha Oliveira Cardoso Amanda , Ribeiro Kaio Mota , Rosa Sarah Brena Aparecida , de Castro Souza Carine , das Neves Rogério Coutinho , Saraiva Guylherme , da Silva Sueli Meira , Silveira Erika Aparecida , Rabahi Marcelo Fouad , Conte Marcus Barreto , Kipnis André
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Genetic polymorphisms in early-onset myocardial infarction in a sample of Iraqi patients: a pilot study
Authors: Mohammad Ameen M. , Othman Galawezh O. , Saeed Chiman H. , Al Allawi Sarah , Gedeon George S. , Qadir Shatha M. , Al-Allawi Nasir
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Early-onset myocardial infarction constitutes nearly one third of cases of myocardial infarction among Iraqis, which is rather higher than the proportions reported in many Western countries. Thus this study was initiated to investigate the role of some genetic polymorphisms, as well as acquired risk factors in this condition.

Results

A total of 102 Iraqi patients with first myocardial infarction aged 50 years, and 77 matched controls were enrolled. The DNAs of participants were screened for nine polymorphisms, namely: β-Fibrinogen (− 455G > A), Factor XIII (V34L), Plasminogen Activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1, 4G/5G), Human Platelet Antigen-1 (HPA1a/b), 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase MTHFR (C677T) and MTHFR (A1298C), Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) 287 bp insertion/deletion (I/D), Apolipoprotein-B (ApoB: R3500Q), and Apolipoprotein-E (Apo E: E2/E3/E4), using PCR and reverse hybridization technique. Among traditional risk factors, univariate analysis revealed that smoking (OR 2.86 [95%CI 1.53–5.34]), hyperlipidemia (OR 5.23 [95%CI 2.66–10.29]), and diabetes mellitus (OR 4.05 [95% CI 1.57–10.41]) were significantly higher among patients compared to controls (P<0.001, <0.001 and 0.002 respectively), while none of the nine genetic polymorphisms reached significance. Multivariate Logistic regression, however, revealed that only smoking and hyperlipidemia retained significance (P of < 0.001 each). The need to initiate further studies on larger cohorts is paramount to understand the higher than expected frequency of early-onset myocardial infarction in our population.
Correction to: Attribution and identification of absorbed components by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS after oral administration of Erhuang decoction
Authors: Wang Jinglong , Zheng Dandan , Xu Nan , Zhang Chao , Wang Yingzi , Sun Xiumei , Zhang Zhaowang
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Spatial and temporal influence of rainfall on crustal pore pressure based on seismic velocity monitoring
Authors: Andajani Rezkia Dewi , Tsuji Takeshi , Snieder Roel , Ikeda Tatsunori
Published: November 2020

Crustal pore pressure, which controls the activities of earthquakes and volcanoes, varies in response to rainfall. The status of pore pressure can be inferred from observed changes in seismic velocity. In this study, we investigate the response of crustal pore pressure to rainfall in southwestern Japan based on time series of seismic velocity derived from ambient noise seismic interferometry. To consider the heterogeneity of the area, rainfall and seismic velocity obtained at each location were directly compared. We used a band-pass filter to distinguish the rainfall variability from sea level and atmospheric pressure, and then calculated the cross-correlation between rainfall and variations in S-wave velocity (Vs). A mostly negative correlation between rainfall and Vs changes indicates groundwater recharge by rainfall, which increases pore pressure. The correlations differ between locations, where most of the observation stations with clear negative cross-correlations were located in areas of granite. On the other hand, we could not observe clear correlations in steep mountain areas, possibly because water flows through river without percolation. This finding suggests that geographical features contribute to the imprint of rainfall on deep formation pore pressure. We further modelled pore pressure change due to rainfall based on diffusion mechanism. A strong negative correlation between pore pressure estimated from rainfall and Vs indicates that the Vs variations are triggered by pore pressure diffusion in the deep formation. Our modelling results show a spatial variation of diffusion parameter which controls the pore pressure in deep formation. By linking the variations in seismic velocity and crustal pore pressure spatially, this study shows that seismic monitoring may be useful in evaluating earthquake triggering processes or volcanic activity.
A novel time-domain polarization filter based on a correlation matrix analysis
Authors: Nasr Maher , Giroux Bernard , Dupuis J. Christian
Published: November 2020

Polarization filters (PFs) are widely used for denoising seismic data. These filters are applied in the fields of seismology, microseismic monitoring, vertical seismic profiling, and subsurface imaging. They are primarily useful to suppress ground roll in seismic reflection data and enhance P- and S-wave arrivals. Traditional implementations of PFs involved the analysis of the covariance matrix or the singular value decomposition (SVD) of a 3C seismogram matrix. The linear polarization level, known as rectilinearity, is expressed as a function of the covariance matrix eigenvalues or by the data matrix singular values. Wavefield records that are linearly polarized are amplified, whereas others are attenuated. Besides the described implementations, we have developed a new time-domain PF based on the analysis of the seismic data correlation matrix. The principal idea is to extend the notion of the correlation coefficient in 3D space. This new filter avoids the need for diagonalization of the covariance matrix or SVD of data matrix, which are often time-consuming. The new implementation facilitates the choice of the rectilinearity threshold: We determine that linear polarization in three dimensions can be represented as three classic 2D correlations. A good linear polarization is detected when a high linear correlation between the three seismogram components is mutually observed. The tuning parameters of the new filter are the length of the time window, the filter order, and the rectilinearity threshold. Tests using synthetic seismograms indicate that optimal results are reached with a filter order that spans between 2 and 4, a rectilinearity threshold between 0.3 and 0.7, and a window length that is equivalent to one to three times the period of the signal wavelet. Compared with covariance-based filters, the new filter can enhance the signal-to-noise ratio by 6–20 dB and reduces computational costs by 25%.