bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"Bariatric Families"- A New Phenomenon with Unique Characteristics
Authors: Weiss Netta , Kalamitzky Nataly , Interator Hagar , Lubetzky Ronit , Lev hadar
Published: June 2020

Background: Many obese children have at least one obese parent, and some of them have one parent who had undergone bariatric surgery (“bariatric families”). The perceptions and attitudes towards child obesity of parents in bariatric families vs. non-bariatric families have not been explored. We assessed how parents who underwent bariatric surgery for obesity perceived their child’s obesity compared to those perceptions of obese parents who did not undergo bariatric surgery.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey by interviewing families in which one or both parents underwent bariatric surgery (bariatric group) and comparing their responses to those of families in which one or both parents had been treated conservatively for obesity (control group). The children of both groups were attending the Obesity Clinic of our children’s hospital. Results: Thirty-six children (median age 10.6 years, 18 in each group, matched for age and sex) were recruited. More parents in the bariatric group replied that weight plays an important role in determining self-image (p<0.03), and more replied that their child's obesity is a current and future health problem (p<0.03 and p<0.007, respectively, Table 1). Five children (28%) in the bariatric group had expectations of undergoing bariatric surgery compared to none in the control group (p<0.02), with a similar trend among their parents (44% vs. 11%, respectively, p<0.07). Conclusion: Families in which one or both parents underwent bariatric surgery for obesity revealed different perceptions of their child’s obesity and different opinions about interventions for treating it compared to families with no bariatric surgery.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Expression of Sodium/Potassium-ATPase α Subunits and Prognosis of Ovarian Serous Cystadenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Wei , Zhang Yongjian , Xu Ye , Yang Shaoyou , Li Bing , Huang Lan , Lou Ge
Published: June 2020

Background: Ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma (OSC) is the most common and lethal gynecological cancer in women worldwide; however, biomarkers to diagnose and predict prognosis of OSC remain limited. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether sodium/potassium adenosine triphosphate (Na+/K+-ATP)ase α-subunits (ATP1As) are helpful diagnostic and prognostic markers of OSC.Methods: Gene expression data (RNA-Seq) of 376 patients with OSC were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) program database. Additional databases used in our analysis included the Gene Expression Omnibus, International Cancer Genome Consortium, Genotype–Tissue Expression, the Human Protein Atlas, cBioPortal for Cancer Genomics, and Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia.Results: The expression levels of ATP1A1 and ATP1A3 were higher in OSC tissues than in normal ovarian tissues, whereas the expression levels of ATP1A2 and ATP1A4 were lower in OSC tissues than in normal ovarian tissues. Overexpression of ATP1A2 was significantly associated with a higher Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage and histological grade. Increased mRNA expression of ATP1A3 was significantly associated with shorter overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) in patients with OSC, whereas higher expression of ATP1A4 was associated with favorable OS and DSS. Multivariate analysis showed that primary therapy outcome, residual tumor, and mRNA expressions of ATP1A3 and ATP1A4 were independent prognostic factors for both OS and DSS in patients with OSC. Moreover, ATP1A1 staining was abundant in tumor tissues. A high expression of ATP1A3 was significantly correlated with poor OS and DSS in the subgroup of patients aged ≥ 60 years and with FIGO stage III, histological grade G3, and TP53 mutation. Mutation frequencies of the ATP1As were 3%–5%.Conclusions: These results indicate that the ATP1A gene family could be potential diagnostic or prognostic markers of OSC. In addition, ATP1As may be effective therapeutic targets in the treatment of OSC.
Opioid agonist therapy uptake among people who inject drugs: The findings of two consecutive bio-behavioral surveillance surveys in Iran
Authors: Nakhaeizadeh Mehran , Abdolahiniya Zahra , Sharifi Hamid , Mirzazadeh Ali , Shokoohi Mostafa , Baral Stefan , Haghdoost AliAkbar , Karamouzian Mohammad , Shahesmaeili Armita
Published: June 2020

Background Opioid agonist therapy (OAT) uptake has been associated with multiple positive health outcomes among people who inject drugs (PWID). This study evaluated the pattern of OAT uptake among PWID in two consecutive national bio-behavioral surveillance surveys (2010 and 2014) in Iran.Methods Data were obtained from two national bio-behavioral surveillance surveys (N2010 = 1,783 and N2014 = 2,166) implemented using convenience sampling at the harm reduction facilities and street venues in 10 geographically diverse urban centers across Iran. Multivariable logistic regression models were built to determine the correlates of OAT uptake for the 2014 survey and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported.Results The prevalence of OAT uptake decreased from 49.2% in 2010 to 45.8% in 2014 (P-value = 0.033). OAT uptake varied across the studied cities ranging from 0.0%-69.3% in the 2010 survey and 3.2%-75.5% in the 2014 survey. Ever being married (AOR = 1.40; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.75), having a history of incarceration (AOR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.16, 2.09), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) sero-positivity (AOR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.08, 2.5) were associated with OAT uptake. Conversely, PWID who reported using only non-opioid drugs (AOR = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.71) and those who reported concurrent use of opioid and non-opioid drugs (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0. 0.51, 0.86) were less likely to uptake OAT. Conclusions Although OAT uptake among PWID in Iran is above the 40% threshold defined by the World Health Organization, there remains significant disparities across urban settings in Iran. Importantly, the OAT services appear to be serving high-risk PWID including those living with HIV and those with a history of incarceration. Evaluating service integration including mental health, HIV and hepatitis C virus care, and other harm reduction services may support the optimization of health outcomes of OAT across Iran.
The accuracy of ultrasound to predict endotracheal tube size for pediatric patients with congenital scoliosis
Authors: Hao Jianhong , Zhang Jie , Dong Buhuai , Luo Zhenguo
Published: June 2020

Background: Ultrasonography has been used to predict the necessary endotracheal tube (ETT) size by measuring the cricoid cartilage diameter. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of ultrasound to predict ETT size for pediatric patients with congenital scoliosis. Methods: Fifty pediatric patients who underwent scoliosis surgery were included in the study. According to the position of the scoliosis, patients were divided into three groups: Group C (cervical lateral bending), Group T (thoracic scoliosis), and Group L (lumbar scoliosis). For all participants, the transverse diameter of the cricoid cartilage was measured with ultrasonography. The initial ETT size was chosen according to the measurements, then the leak test was used to determine the best‑fit ETT size. The ETT size predicted by ultrasound and the best‑fit ETT size were compared using Bland-Altman analysis. Results: There was a strong correlation between the best‑fit ETT size and the ETT size predicted by ultrasound in Group T (r = 0.93, p < 0.001) and Group L (r = 0.94, p < 0.001) and a moderate correlation in Group C (r = 0.83, p < 0.001). Bland-Altman analysis showed that the ETT size was overestimated by ultrasound in pediatric patients with cervical lateral bending (bias = 0.73 mm, precision = 0.42 mm, limit of agreement = 0.08 to 1.38 mm). Conclusion: Ultrasound is a reliable tool to predict ETT size for pediatric patients with thoracic or lumbar scoliosis. However, pediatric patients with cervical lateral bending will need an ETT smaller than the size predicted by ultrasonography. Trial Registration: The trial was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR: 1900023408).
Lipoprotein (a) Predicts Recurrent Worse Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Prior Cardiovascular Events: A Prospective, Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Yan , Jin Jing-Lu , Cao Ye-Xuan , Zhang Hui-Wen , Guo Yuan-Lin , Wu Na-Qiong , Zhu Cheng-Gang , Gao Ying , Hua Qi , Li Yan-Fang , Xu Rui-Xia , Li Jian-Jun
Published: June 2020

Background: Merging studies have reported the association of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] with poor outcomes of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the prognostic importance of Lp(a) for recurrent cardiovascular events (CVEs) is currently undetermined in patients with T2DM and prior CVEs.Methods: From April 2011 to March 2017, we consecutively recruited 2,284 T2DM patients with prior CVEs. Patients were categorized into low, medium, and high groups by Lp(a) levels and followed up for hard, recurrent CVEs, including nonfatal acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular mortality. Caplan-Meier, Cox regression and C-statistic analyses were performed.Results: During 7,613 patient-years’ follow-up, 153 recurrent CVEs occurred. Lp(a) levels were significantly higher in patients with recurrent CVEs than counterparts (20.44 vs. 14.71 mg/dL, p=0.002). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the event-free survival rate was dramatically lower in high and medium Lp(a) groups than that in low group irrespective of HBA1c status (<7.0%; ≥7.0%, both p<0.05). Furthermore, multivariate Cox regression models indicated that Lp(a) was independently associated with high risk of recurrent CVEs [HR(95% CI): 2.049(1.308-3.212)], such data remains in different HBA1c status (HR(95% CI): <7.0%, 2.009(1.051-3.840); ≥7.0%, 2.162(1.148-4.073)). Moreover, the results of C-statistic were significantly improved by 0.029 when added Lp(a) to the Cox model.Conclusions: Our data, for the first time, confirmed that Lp(a) was an independent predictor for recurrent CVEs in T2DM patients with prior CVEs, suggesting that Lp(a) measurement may help to further risk stratification for T2DM patients after they suffered a first CVE.
Hypertension prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control and predicted 10-year CVD risk: a cross-sectional study of Seven Communities in East and West Africa (SevenCEWA)
Authors: Okello Samson , Muhihi Alfa , Mohamed Shukri F , Ameh Soter , Ochimana Caleb , Oluwasanu Abayomi Olabayo , Bolarinwa Oladimeji Akeem , Sewankambo Nelson , Danaei Goodarz
Published: June 2020

Background: Few studies have characterized epidemiology and management of hypertension across several communities with comparable methodology in sub-Saharan Africa. We assessed prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension and predicted 10-year cardiovascular disease risk across seven sites in East and West Africa. Methods: Between June and August 2018, we conducted household surveys among adults aged 18 years and above in 7 communities in Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda. We collected data on socio-demographics, health insurance, and healthcare utilization. We measured blood pressure using digital blood pressure monitors and following a standardized protocol. We estimated 10-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk using a country-specific risk score and fitted hierarchical models to identify determinants of hypertension prevalence, awareness and treatment. Results: We analyzed data of 3549 participants. The mean age was 39·7 years (SD 15·4), 60·5% of whom were women, 9·6% had ever smoked, and 32·7% were overweight/obese. A quarter of the participants (25·1% had hypertension, half of whom (57·6%) were diagnosed. Among diagnosed, 50·5% were taking medication, and among those taking medication 47·3% had controlled blood pressure. After adjusting for other determinants, older age was associated with increased hypertension prevalence, awareness, and treatment whereas primary education was associated with lower hypertension prevalence. Health insurance was associated with lower hypertension prevalence and higher chances of treatment. Median predicted 10-yr CVD risk across sites was 4·9% Interquartile range, IQR (2·4%, 10·3%) and 13·2% had risk of 20% or greater while 7·1% had risk of >30%. Conclusion: In seven communities in east and west Africa, a quarter of adults had hypertension, about 40% were unaware, half of those aware were treated and half of those treated were controlled blood pressure. Access to health insurance is needed to improve awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa.
Separate and combined effects of cold dialysis and intradialytic exercise on the thermoregulatory responses of hemodialysis patients
Authors: Krase Argyro A. , Flouris Andreas D. , Karatzaferi Christina , Giannaki Christoforos D. , Stefanidis Ioannis , Sakkas Giorgos
Published: June 2020

Background: The separate and combined effects of intradialytic exercise training (IET) and cold dialysis (CD) on patient thermoregulation remain unknown. This study assessed the thermoregulatory responses of hemodialysis patients under four different hemodialysis protocols: a) one typical dialysis (TD) protocol (dialysate temperature at 37°C), b) one cold dialysis (CD) protocol (dialysate temperature at 35°C), c) one typical dialysis protocol which included a single exercise bout (TD+E), d) one cold dialysis protocol which included a single exercise bout (CD+E). Methods: Ten haemodialysis patients (57.2±14.9 years) participated in the study. Core and skin temperatures were measured using an ingestible telemetric pill and by four wireless iButtons attached on the skin, respectively. Body heat storage (S) calculated using the thermometric method proposed by Burton. Results: The TD and TD+E protocols were associated with increased S leading to moderate effect size increases in core body temperature (as high as 0.4°C). The low temperature of the dialysate during the CD and the CD+E protocols prevented the rise in S and core temperature (p>0.05), even during the period that IET took place. Conclusions: TD and IET are accompanied by a moderate level of hyperthermia, which can be offset by CD. We recommended that CD or with IET can prevent the excessive rise of S. Trial registration: Clinical Trial Registry number: NCT03905551 (clinicaltrials.gov), DOR: 05/04/2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03905551?term=NCT03905551&draw=2&rank=1
The psychological impact of COVID-19 on medical care workers in China
Authors: Si Mingyu , Su Xiaoyou , Jiang Yu , Wang Wenjun , Gu Xiao-fen , Ma Li , Li Jing , Zhang Shaokai , Ren Ze-Fang , Ren Ran , Liu Yuanli , Qiao Youlin
Published: June 2020

Background Medical care workers experienced unprecedented levels of workload and pressure since the outbreak of COVID-19 started from the end of 2019. Little is known about its exact impact on medical care workers and related factors in China. This study aims to identify the psychological impact of COVID-19 on medical care workers in China.Methods From February 23th to March 5th, 2020, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 863 medical care workers from 7 provinces in China using standard questionnaires measuring adverse psychological outcomes including Impact of Event Scale-6 (IES-6), Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale（DASS）and related psychosocial factors like perceived threat, social support and coping strategies. Exploratory Factor analysis was performed to identify the dimensions of perceived threat by study participants. Multivariate regression was used to examine the determinants of adverse psychological outcomes. Results Posttraumatic stress (PTS) were prevalent in this sample of health care professionals, and 40.2% indicated positive screens for significant posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. The proportion of having mild to extremely severe symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress were 13.6%, 13.9% and 8.6%, respectively. Perceived threat and passive coping strategies were positively correlated to PTS and DASS scores, while perceived social support and active coping strategies were negatively correlated to DASS scores. Nurses were more likely to be anxious than others among medical care workers during the COVID-19 epidemic. Conclusions Adverse psychological symptoms were prevalent among medical care workers in China during the COVID-19 epidemic. Screening for adverse psychological outcomes and developing corresponding preventive measures would be beneficial in decreasing negative psychological outcomes.
Increasing of malignancy of breast cancer cells after cryopreservation: molecular detection and activation of angiogenesis after CAM-Xenotransplantation.
Authors: Du Xin , Todorov P. , Isachenko Evgenia , Rahimi G , Mallmann P. , Meng Yuanguang , Isachenko Vladimir
Published: June 2020

Background: Ovarian tissue cryopreservation has a wide range of cancerous indications. Avoiding relapse becomes a specific area of concern that clinicians frequently encounter. The data about the comparative viability of cancer cells after cryopreservation are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cryopreservation on breast cancer cells.Methods: Samples were prepared using ZR-75-1 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines and divided into cryopreserved and non-intervened groups, respectively. Biological properties and the related protein markers were investigated. Cell morphology was monitored under the microscope. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were characterized by CCK-8, wound-healing, and transmembrane assay, respectively. The expression of Ki-67, P53, GATA-3, E-cadherin, Vimentin, and F-Actin was measured by immunofluorescent staining and western blotting. Xenotransplantation was established on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) culture system to explore angiogenesis close to the grafts.Results: Lamellipodia and filopodia were observed in cryopreserved ZR-75-1 cells. Both cell lines demonstrated increased cell motility and invasive ability after cryopreservation. However, cell proliferation was invariable in accordance with a regular expression of Ki-67 and P53. In ZR-75-1 cells, data exhibited a downregulation of E-cadherin after the decreased expression of GATA3, indicating the loss of intercellular adhesion after cryopreservation. Vimentin and F-actin were both upregulated in cryopreserved sample cells. Angiogenesis in CAM was significantly activated by cryopreserved MDA-MB-231 cells.Conclusions: Cryopreservation causes an increasing malignancy of ZR-75-1 and MDA-MB-231 cells and thus raises the risk of metastasis.
PD-L1 associated with the expression of cancer cell-intrinsic PD-1 and p-S6 proteins and predicted a good prognosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Zheng Hongmei , Zhan Yuting , Yang Yang , Ning Yue , Wang Haihua , Wang Weiyuan , Fan Songqing
Published: June 2020

Aims: programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is the ligand of programmed death 1 (PD-1) which is a host immunity inhibitory receptor. PD-L1 expressed in tumor cells has been widely discussed, while there is little research about tumor intrinsic-PD-1. P-S6 is an important downstream effector of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. This study aimed to investigate the expression of PD-L1 protein and its relationship with cancer cell-intrinsic PD-1 protein and p-S6 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Methods: the expression of PD-L1, PD-1 and p-S6 proteins in tissues of NPC, non-cancerous nasopharyngeal epithelia, primary lesions and matching metastases was detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: PD-L1, PD-1 and p-S6 expression and co-expression of PD-L1 and PD-1 proteins were significantly higher in NPC than those of in the non-cancerous nasopharyngeal epithelia, respectively (all P<0.05). Furthermore, there was evidently elevated expression of PD-1 and co-expression of PD-L1 and PD-1 in matched metastasis of NPC compared to their primary lesions (all P<0.01). Overall survival rate for NPC patients with positive expression of PD-L1 (P =0.035) was significantly higher than others. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis identified that positive expression of PD-L1 (P=0.002) and p-S6 (P=0.003) were independent prognostic factors for NPC patients. Conclusions: positive expression of PD-L1 associated with expression of cancer cell-intrinsic PD-1 and p-S6, PD-L1 might be a good prognostic biomarker and p-S6 could serve as a valuable independent poor prognostic biomarker for NPC patients.
SLC40A1 mediates ferroptosis and cognitive dysfunction in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Hao Lijun , Mi Jun , Song Liping , Guo Yinnan , Li Yanli , Yin Yiru , Zhang Ce
Published: June 2020

Objective: Cognitive dysfunction often accompanies diabetes. Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia cause cognitive dysfunctions. However, the underlying pathophysiology remains unclear. Recent evidence show that ferroptosis primarily triggers nerve cell death, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). We purposed to investigate whether ferroptosis is a vital pathogenic pathway in diabetes-induced cognitive dysfunction. Methods and results: Type 1 diabetic rat model was created by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Significant cognitive dysfunction was observed in the diabetic rats as evidenced by increase in latency period to find a hidden platform and decreased cumulative time spent in the target quadrant in the Morris water maze test. We detected the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) of the BOLD (Blood Oxygenation Level-Dependent) signal using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI). Consequently, we found that the ALFF values, as well as the T2 relaxation time of the bilateral hippocampus, were reduced in Type 1 diabetic rats. We detected Fe2+ level and lipid peroxidation products (MDA and 4-HNE) in the hippocampus. Mitochondria and neuron injury in the STZ-induced diabetic rats were determined using a Transmission Electron Microscope and Nissl body staining. Iron overload and ferroptosis were detected in the hippocampus. Furthermore, mRNA microarray analysis revealed 201 dysregulated mRNAs in STZ-induced type 1 diabetes (T1D). Pathway enrichment analyses indicated that differentially expressed mRNAs associated-coding genes were associated with ferroptosis. Among ferroptosis signaling pathway genes, Slc40a1 gene (ferroportin) was downregulated.Conclusion: We show that ferroptosis is associated with diabetic cognitive dysfunction and Slc40a1 mediates ferroptosis in Type 1 diabetes.
Spread of SARS-CoV-2 Genomes on Genomic Index Maps of Hierarchy
Authors: Zheng Jeffrey , Zhou Yang , Zhu Minghan , Qiao Mu , Zhang Zhigang
Published: June 2020

Using visual technologies, COVID-19 patients worldwide are conveniently described by position information to collect sample, modern GIS maps are useful to show influenced flows and numbers of patients on various regions of a pendamic. From an analysis viewpoint, it is more interesting to organize genomic information into a phylogenic tree with multiple branches and leaves in representations. Clusters of genomes are organized as phylogenic trees to represent intrinsic information of genomes. However, there are structural difficulties to project phylogenic information into 2D distributions as GIS maps naturally.In this paper, a novel projection is proposed to arrange SARS-CoV-2 genomes by genomic indexes to make a structural organization as 2D GIS maps. For any genome, there is a unique invariant under the certain conditions to provide an absolute position on a specific region. In this hierarchical framework, it is possible to use a visual tool to represent any selected region for clustering genomes on refined effects. Visual effects are complementarily provided with Phylogenic tree technology. Sample regions and various projections show spread effects of five thousand SARS-CoV-2 genomes in 72 countries and special four countries are selected on genomic index maps.
Phase II study of temozolomide monotherapy in patients with extrapulmonary poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma that were resistant to platinum-based chemotherapy
Authors: Kobayashi Noritoshi , Takeda Yuma , Okubo Naoki , Suzuki Akihiro , Tokuhisa Motohiko , Hiroshima Yukihiko , Ichikawa Yasushi
Published: June 2020

Background: Extrapulmonary poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma (EPNEC) is a lethal disease with a poor prognosis. Platinum-based chemotherapy is used as the standard first-line treatment for unresectable EPNEC. Several retrospective studies have reported the results of the utilization of temozolomide (TMZ) as a drug for the second-line treatment for EPNEC. Methods:Patients with unresectable EPNEC that were resistant to platinum-based combination chemotherapy were recruited for a prospective phase II study of TMZ monotherapy. A 200 mg/m2 dose of TMZ was administered from day 1 to day 5, every four weeks. Response rate (RR) was evaluated as the primary endpoint. The presence of O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) in EPNEC patients was also evaluated as exploratory research. Results: Thirteen patients were enrolled in this study. Primary lesions were pancreas (n=3), stomach (n=3), duodenum (n=1), colon (n=1), gallbladder (n=1), liver (n=1), uterus (n=1), bladder (n=1), and primary unknown (n=1). Each case was defined as pathological poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma from surgical resected and/or biopsied specimens. The median Ki67 labeling index was 60% (range: 22%-90%). The RR was 15.4%, progression free survival was 1.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-2.7), overall survival (OS) was 7.8 months (95% CI, 6.0-9.5), and OS from first-line treatment was 19.2 months (95% CI, 15.1-23.3). No grade 3 or 4 hematological toxicity had occurred and grade 3 nausea and appetite loss had occurred one case. One case presented MGMT deficiency and this case showed partial response. Conclusion: TMZ monotherapy is a feasible, modestly effective, and safety treatment for patients with unresectable EPNEC following platinum-based chemotherapy. MGMT deficiency may be a reliable biomarker for the response of unresectable EPNEC to TMZ. Trial registration: Registered at April 20, 2013. Registry number: UMIN000010549.
Establishment of A PEG-mediated Protoplast Transformation System Based on DNA and CRISPR/Cas9 Ribonucleoprotein Complexes For Banana
Authors: Wu Shaoping , Zhu Haocheng , Liu Jinxing , Yang Qiaosong , Shao Xiuhong , Bi Fangcheng , Hu Chunhua , Huo Heqiang , Chen Kunling , Yi Ganjun
Published: June 2020

Background: To date, CRISPR/Cas9 RNPs editing tools have not been applied to genetic modification of banana. Here, the establishment of PEG-mediated banana protoplast transformation system makes it possible to build an efficient DNA- free method for the site-directed mutagenesis system.Results: Protoplasts are a versatile platform for transient expression in plant science. In this study, we established a PEG-mediated banana protoplast transformation system. This system was further optimized for successfully delivering plasmids of CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cas12a , CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) that targeted PDS gene into banana protoplasts. Specific bands were observed in PCR-Restriction Enzyme Digestion (PCR-RE) assays and monoclonal sequencing further confirmed the occurring of indels at target sites. Deep amplicon sequencing results showed that the editing efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 system was higher than that of the other two systems. Conclusions: The PEG-mediated banana protoplast transformation system can serve as a rapid and effective tool for transient expression assays and sgRNA validation in banana.The application of CRISPR/Cas9 RNPs system enables the generation of DNA-free genome edited banana plants.
Effects of Irrigation Techniques on Yield, Quality and Water Use Efficiency of Greenhouse Grown Celery (Apium graveolens L.)
Authors: Wang Shenglin , Luo Chen , Xie Yue , Jiang Xiaotang , Wang Yixin , Wang Qian
Published: June 2020

Background: Traditional irrigation methods in protected vegetable production such as furrow irrigation result in low water use efficiency. New techniques, such as drip irrigation, micro-sprinkling irrigation have been developed for improving water use efficiency. However, these techniques have not been tested in greenhouse celery production. In this study, three different irrigation techniques micro-sprinkler irrigation (MS), furrow irrigation under plastic film mulching (PF) and micro-sprinkler irrigation under the plastic film mulching (MSP) were investigated whether the three techniques can improve the yield, quality and water use efficiency of greenhouse-grown celery, compared to furrow irrigation (FI). Results: The individual plant weight of celery was higher under MS, PF and MSP than under FI in both autumn season crop (AC) and spring season crop (SC), compared to FI. In AC and SC, the economic yield of celery increases under MSP by 54.18% and 49.55%, the economic yield of celery increases under PF by 30.37% and 34.10%. The irrigation amount of MSP was 151.69 and 179.91 m3 667 m-2 in AC and SC, which was 23.13% and 27.27% lower than that of FI. The irrigation amount of PF was 151.69 and 196.78 m3 667 m-2 in AC and SC, which was 23.13% and 20.45% lower than that of FI. PF and MSP reduced the irrigation amount of celery cultivation in greenhouse, and soil evaporation content. Conclusions: In short, MSP and PF promoted the growth and yield of celery in greenhouse with improved quality and water use efficiency.
Differential associations of patterns of co-existing MRI lesions with knee pain at rest and on joint loading: a within-person knee-matched case-control study
Authors: Liu Qiang , Lane Nancy E. , Hunter David , Xing Dan , Li Zhikun , Lin Jianhao , Zhang Yuqing
Published: June 2020

Background: To assess the association of co-existing MRI lesions with knee pain at rest or on joint loading.Methods: We included participants from Osteoarthritis Initiative whose pain score, measured by WOMAC sub-scales, differed by ≥1 point at rest (in bed and with sitting/lying down) or on joint loading (with walking and on stairs) between two knees. Cartilage morphology, bone marrow lesions, meniscus extrusion, meniscus morphology, Hoffa’s synovitis and synovitis-effusion were assessed using the compartment-specific MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score. We performed latent class analyses to identify subgroups of co-existing MRI lesions and fitted a conditional logistic regression model to examine their associations with knee pain. Results: Among 130 eligible participants, we identified five subgroups of knees according to patterns of co-existing MRI lesions: I. minimal lesions; II. mild lesions; III. moderate morphological lesions; IV. moderate multiple reactive lesions; and V. severe lesions. Compared with subgroup I, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of greater pain in bed were 1.6 (0.3, 7.2), 2.2 (0.5, 9.5), 6.2 (1.3, 29.6) and 11.2 (2.1, 59.2) for subgroups II-V, respectively. A similar association was observed between aforementioned subgroups and pain with sitting/lying down. The ORs (95% CI) of greater pain with walking were 1.0 (reference), 1.7 (0.5, 6.1), 0.7 (0.2, 2.3), 5.0 (1.4, 18.6) and 7.9 (2.0, 31.5) for subgroup I-V, respectively. The corresponding analysis for pain on stairs showed similar results. Conclusions: Distinct patterns of co-existing MRI lesions have different implications for the pathogenesis of osteoarthritic knee pain occurring with/without joint loading.
Novel anti-SARS-CoV-2 mechanisms of fusion broad range anti- infective protein ricin A chain mutant-pokeweed antiviral protein 1 (RTAM-PAP1) in silico
Authors: Hassan Yasser , Ogg Sherry , Ge Hui
Published: June 2020

A deadly pandemic named COVID-19 caused by a new coronavirus SARS- CoV-2 has emerged in 2019 and is still spreading globally at a dangerous pace. As of today, there are no proven vaccines, therapies or even strategies to fight off this virus. Here, we describe the in silico results of a novel broad range anti-infective fusion protein RTAM-PAP1 against the various key pro- teins of SARS-CoV-2 using the latest protein-ligand docking software. RTAM-PAP1 was compared against the SARS-CoV-2 B38 antibody, ricin A chain, pokeweed antiviral protein from leaves and the lectin griffithsin using CoDockPP special COVID-19 version. These experiments revealed novel binding mechanisms of RTAM-PAP1 with high affinity to numerous targets with anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects. RTAM-PAP1 was further characterized in a preliminary toxicity study in mice and was found to likely be a potent anti- SARS-CoV-2 agent. These findings might lead to the discovery of novel SARS-CoV-2 targets and therapeutic protein structures.
Nine Recommendations for Decision Aid Implementation from the Clinician Perspective
Authors: Ankolekar Anshu , Vanneste Ben G.L. , Gurp Esther Bloemen-van , Roermund Joep van , Berlanga Adriana , Roumen Cheryl , Limbergen Evert van , Lutgens Ludy , Marcelissen Tom , Lambin Philippe , Dekker Andre , Fijten Rianne
Published: June 2020

Background

Shared decision-making (SDM) aims to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment choices, supported by clinicians and patient decision aids (PDAs). The purpose of this study is to explore barriers and possible facilitators to SDM and a PDA in the prostate cancer trajectory. In the process we identify possible actions that organizations and individuals can take to support implementation in practice.
Methods

We use the Ottawa Model of Research Use as a framework to determine the barriers and facilitators to SDM and PDAs from the perspective of clinicians. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with urologists (n = 4), radiation oncologists (n = 3), and oncology nurses (n = 2), focusing on the current decision-making process experienced by these stakeholders. Questions included their attitudes towards SDM and PDAs, barriers to implementation and possible strategies to overcome them.
Results

Time pressure and patient characteristics were cited as major barriers by 55% of the clinicians we interviewed. Structural factors such as external quotas for certain treatment procedures were also considered as barriers by 44% of the clinicians. Facilitating factors involved organizational changes to embed PDAs in the treatment trajectory, training in using PDAs as a tool for SDM, and clinician motivation by disseminating positive clinical outcomes. Our findings also suggest a role for external stakeholders such as healthcare insurers in creating economic incentives to facilitate implementation.
Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of a multi-faceted implementation strategy to support SDM. While clinician motivation and patient activation are essential, structural/economic barriers may hamper implementation. Action must also be taken at the administrative and policy levels to foster a collaborative environment for SDM and in the process for PDAs.
Patients’ experiences with the advanced practice nurse role in Swiss family practices: a qualitative study
Authors: Schönenberger Nicole , Sottas Beat , Merlo Christoph , Essig Stefan , Gysin Stefan
Published: June 2020

Background: Considering shortages of general practitioners (GP) and strategies for improving the quality of health care provision, many countries have implemented interprofessional care models with advanced practice nurses (APN). International evidence suggests that APN care results in high patient satisfaction. In Switzerland, the role is still new, and the patient perspective has not yet been researched. Our aim was therefore to explore patients’ experiences with the APN role in Swiss family practices.Methods: We conducted 22 semi-structured interviews in four different family practices with patients aged 18 to 97 suffering from minor acute to multiple chronic diseases, and who had at least one consultation with an APN. All interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using qualitative content analysis.Results: The analysis resulted in five themes: Despite the unfamiliarity, all patients were willing to be consulted by an APN because it was recommended by their GP (1); after several encounters, most participants perceived differences between the APN and the GP consultation in terms of the length and approach of the consultations as well as the complexity of their tasks (2); the interviewees emphasised coaching, guidance, care coordination, and GP-assisting tasks as APN core competencies and attributed the characteristics empathetic, trustworthy, and competent to the APN role (3); most patients especially valued home visits and the holistic approach of the APNs, but they also noticed that in certain cases GP supervision was required (4); and due to the close collaboration between the APN and the GP, patients felt safe, well cared for and experienced improvements in physical and psychological well-being as well as in daily activities (5). Conclusion: Our results suggest that patients value the APNs’ competencies, despite their initial lack of role knowledge. Overall, they perceived an added value due to the enlargement of the scope of practice offered by APNs. The patient perspective might provide valuable insights for further APN role implementation in Swiss family practices.
27-Gauge trocar-assisted sutureless intraocular lens fixation.
Authors: Jujo Tatsuya , Kogo Jiro , Sasaki Hiroki , Sekine Reio , Sato Keiji , Ebisutani Sakura , Toyoda Yasuhiro , Kitaoka Yasushi , Takagi Hitoshi
Published: June 2020

Backgrounds:
However there have been numerous investigations of intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation techniques, there is room for improvement in terms of simplifying complicated techniques and reducing the high levels of skill required. This study aimed to report a novel technique for sutureless intrascleral fixation of the IOL using retinal forceps with a 27-gauge trocar.
Methods
Nineteen eyes of 18 patients underwent intrascleral fixation of the IOL from July 2018 to September 2019 were enrolled in this study. A 27-gauge trocar formed 3-mm scleral tunnels positioned at 4 and 10 o’clock, 2 mm from the corneal limbus. We used a 3-piece IOL haptic grasped by a 27-gauge retinal forceps and pulled from the 27-gauge trocar. The IOL was fixed by making a flange. Main outcome measures were visual acuity, corneal endothelial cell density, IOL tilt, decentration, predicted error of refraction and complications.
Results
The 19 eyes were followed up for 1 month. The mean pre- and postoperative logMAR uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 1.06 ± 0.63 and 0.40 ± 0.26, respectively (p < 0.01), while the mean pre- and postoperative logMAR best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.27 ± 0.51 and 0.06 ± 0.15, respectively (p = 0.09). The mean corneal endothelial cell density was 2406 ± 625 to 2004 ± 759 cells/mm2 at 1 month (p = 0.13). The mean IOL tilt was 3.52 ± 3.00°, and the mean IOL decentration was 0.39 ± 0.39 mm. There was no correlation among IOL tilt, decentration and BCVA (p > 0.05). The mean prediction error of the target refraction was − 0.03 ± 0.93 D. The complications were vitreous hemorrhage (3 eyes), hyphema (1 eye), IOP elevation (1 eye), iris capture of the IOL (1 eye) and hypotony (2 eyes). No IOL dislocation occurred.
Conclusions
IOL intrascleral fixation with a flange achieved good IOL fixation and visual outcome in the scleral tunnels created with the 27-gauge trocar.
The Effect of Periodic Ketogenic Diet on Newly Diagnosed Overweight or Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Li Sumei , Lin Guoxin , Chen Jinxing , Chen Zhenxin , Xu Feipeng , Zhu Feng , Zhang Jintian , Yuan Shouping
Published: June 2020

Background To observe the effect of periodic ketogenic diet intervention on newly diagnosed overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes.Methods 60 overweight or obese T2DM patients were randomly divided into ketogenic diet group and diabetes diet control group, 30 patients in each group. The changes and significance of blood glucose, blood lipid, body weight, insulin, uric acid and other indicators before and after the intervention were observed.Results The Weight, BMI, Waist, TG, TC, LDL, HDL, FBG, FINS, HbA1c of the two groups decreased significantly compared with the previous period (P < 0.05). However, UA showed an increasing trend in the ketogenic diet group and no significant change in UA in the diabetic diet control group (P > 0.05). Long-term adherence to the ketogenic diet was not as strong as that of the diabetic diet.Conclusion The phased-ketogenic diet can control not only weight but also blood glucose and blood lipid in patients with overweight or obese T2DM. But long-term persistence is difficult.
Determinants of Severe Acute Malnutrition Among 6-59 Months’ Children at Dubti Referral Hospital, Afar Agro-Pastoralist Region North Eastern Ethiopia, 2018
Authors: Ali Ibrahim Hussein , Jemal Mohammed , Gebre Abel
Published: June 2020

Background: Severe acute malnutrition(SAM) is one of the major public health problems in developing countries including Ethiopia specifically in Afar having an overwhelming consequence on the survives of several children under five-years of age. This study intends to identify the determinants of SAM among 6-59 months of children at Dubti referral hospital, Afar Regional State, EthiopiaMethods: An institution-based unmatched case-control study was conducted in Dubti referral Hospital from March 1 to May 15, 2018. The sample size was calculated using Epi-InfoTM version 7.2.2.6 Statistical software. Using cases-control (1:2), the total sample size was 297(cases 99, controls 196). A systematic random sampling technique was used, data were collected using interviewer-administered structured questionnaire, entered in Epi-info TM, and analyzed using SPSS 21 version using binary logistic regression, with P < 0.05 considered significant. Result: The response rate was 100 % (297), mean age of the cases and controls was 14.8 months (SD ± 7.9) and 26.9 months (SD ± 15.9), respectively. Of the participants, 58.58% were male, 85.4% were Muslim, and 65.65% were of Afar ethnicity. SAM was significantly associated with children aged 6-11 months and 12-23 months adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=4.3, 95%CI 3.64-6.73, 11.2, 95% CI 7.89-14.5), respectively. Rural residences (AOR=2.8, 95% CI 2.62-5.73), and low monthly family income (<$30) (AOR=3.8, 95% CI 2.97-4.87) were independent predictors of SAM. This study revealed low ANC visits (32.2%), low exclusive breastfeeding practices (34.9%), and low vaccination coverage (29.6%). Conclusion: Children aged 12-23 months, rural dwellers, and low monthly family income (<$30) were identified as independent predictors of SAM. This study revealed low ANC visits, low exclusive breastfeeding practice, and low immunization coverage. Hence, cooperative efforts are needed to increase promotion of enhanced child caring practices specifically, child and maternal feeding practices, and ANC follow up and vaccination practice.
Heart rate variability predicts 8-year risk of cardiovascular disease: The Taiwan Bus Driver Cohort Study (TBDCS)
Authors: Wang Ying-Chuan , Wang Chung-Ching , Chen Bae-Ling , Wu Wei-Te
Published: June 2020

Background: Characteristics of professional drivers like irregular work shifts, long hours of driving, sedentary restricted postures, long-term sleep deficiency, increase the probability of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Therefore, early monitoring CVD risk is important to device preventive measures in the workplace.Objective: This cohort study used to evaluate the effectiveness of noninvasive heart rate variability (HRV) analysis to assess the 8-year risk of CVD events.Methods: Personal and working characteristics were collected before biochemistry examinations and 5-min HRV tests from Taiwan Bus Driver Cohort Study (TBDCS) in 2005. Then, this cohort was linked to Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) to obtain subjects’ medical information. This study eventually identified 161 drivers with CVD and 627 without from 2005 to 2012. Cox proportional hazards model were performed to estimate the hazard ratio for CVD.Results: Subjects with overall CVD had lower the standard deviation of NN intervals (SDNN) than their counterparts. Even after adjusting for risk factors, SDNN index have a strong association with overall CVD. Using median split for SDNN, hazard ratio of overall CVD was 1.83 (95% CI 1.10–3.04) in model 1 and 1.87 (95% CI 1.11–3.13) in model 2. Furthermore, Low frequency (LF) index associated with risk of overall CVD in the continuous approach. For hypertensive disease, the SDNN index was associated with increased risks in both the continuous and dichotomized approaches. When Root Mean Square of the Successive Differences (RMSSD), high frequency (HF), and LF as a continuous variable, the significant association with hypertensive disease were observed.Conclusions: This cohort study suggests that SDNN and LF levels are useful for predicting 8-year CVD risk, especially for hypertensive disease. Further research is required to determine preventive measures for modifying HRV dysfunction as well as to investigate whether these interventions could reduce CVD risk in professional drivers.
Infra-Acetabular Screw Exited Between Ischial Tuberosity and Ischial Spine is more Suitable for Asian Population: A 3D Morphometric Study
Authors: Liu Fei , Feng Xiaoreng , Xiao Yang , Xiang Jie , Chen Keyu , Deng Yihang , Lyu Jiaxin , Chen Bin
Published: June 2020

Background Recently, the infra-acetabular screw was proposed for acetabular fractures as a part of a periacetabular fixation frame. Biomechanical studies showed that an additional infra-acetabular screw placement can enhance the fixation strength of acetabular fracture internal fixation. At present, the reported exit point of the infra-acetabular screw was all located at the ischial tuberosity. However, through great experience in placing the infra-acetabular screw, we realized that when the exit point was located between the ischial tuberosity and the ischial spine, the placement of a 3.5 mm infra-acetabular screw is easier in some patients. Methods This study used axial perspective based on 3D models to study the anatomical parameters of the two different infra-acetabular screw corridors. Placed the largest diameter virtual screw in the two different screw corridors. The data obtained in this study present the maximum diameters, length, directions, and distances between the entry point and the center of IPE. Results In 65.31% males and 40.54% females, a Screw I corridor with a diameter of at least 5 mm was found, while in Screw II it was 77.55% in males and 62.16% in females. Compared with screw I, the length of screw II is reduced, the angle with the coronal plane is significantly reduced, and the angle with the transverse plane is significantly increased.Conclusions For East Asians, changing the exit point of the infra-acetabular screw can increase the scope of use of the infra-acetabular screw, especially for females.
Ceramic Bricks Containing Ni Ions From Contaminated Biomass Used As Adsorbent
Authors: Simón Daiana , Quaranta Nancy , Gass Sebastián , Procaccini Raúl , Cristóbal Adrián
Published: June 2020

This article shows how pine sawdust residues can be used to adsorb nickel ions from synthetic solutions and then to produce porous bricks for civil construction using a mixture of natural clay and biomass containing the adsorbed metals. The adsorption process was carried out with NiCl2 solutions in contact with pine sawdust for a fixed stirring time of 24 hours. The mixture was filtered and the filtrate was analysed. The highest efficiency adsorbate / adsorbent ratio was 1 mol L− 1 of NiCl2 solution and 20 g L− 1 of pine sawdust. This was the contaminated biomass sample used in the manufacture of the bricks. This paper analyses the properties of the bricks achieved and compares them with bricks without added biomass, porous bricks containing zinc and commercial bricks. The obtained values ​​of apD: bulk density, aspW: apparent specific weight, apP: apparent porosity, H2O Abs: water absorption, apV: apparent volume, LOI: weight loss on ignition, σstr: compression fracture stress, MOR: flexural modulus of rupture and RE: retention efficiency, indicate that the bricks obtained are suitable for use in civil construction.