bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of transcriptomic and proteomic analyses to construct a new model for the promotion of starch synthesis by ABA in Euryale ferox Salisb. seeds
Authors: Wu Peng , Li Xiang , Liu Xian , Xu Xu , Zhang Yu , Li Liangjun
Published: September 2019

Background: Euryale ferox Salisb. is an annual aquatic herb and the only species belonging to the genus Euryale in the Nymphaeaceae family. E. ferox seeds are used in medicine and diet s. Starch is the main factor affecting E. ferox seed quality, but its regulatory mechanism has not been elucidated. Results: Herein, four time points of seed development, including after flowering T1 (10 days), T2 (20 days), T3 (30 days) and T4 (40 days), were investigated by using RNA-Seq and iTRAQ technology. Using weighted gene co-expression network analyses (WGCNAs), co-expressed genes and hub genes were identified for each module. Of particular importance are the discoveries of specific modules for seed starch during the seed developmental stages. The candidate regulators of seed starch are involved in the hormonal signaling pathways. Three ABA signaling receptor kinases, EfPYR1, EfSnRK2.1 and EfSnRK2.2 , were identified as hub genes functioning in starch synthesis during the seed maturation process. The changes in expression pattern, ABA and starch content also indicated that ABA is positively correlated with starch. Conclusions: Together, these results indicate that E. ferox seed accumulation of starch is promoted by ABA, providing new insights into the regulatory mechanism of starch synthesis in E. ferox seeds.
HPV Genotypes and Epidemiology in Women With Cervical Cancer in Senegal
Authors: NIANE kHADIDIATOU , DIAGNE Cheikh Tidiane , DIOP Gora , DIA Ndongo , TALLA Cheikh , LOUCOUBAR Cheikh , NDIAYE Moussa , Niang Mbayame , DIALLO Aissatou , KA Sidy , DIEYE Alioune , Sall Amadou Alpha , DEM Ahmadou
Published: September 2019

BackgroundIn sub-Saharan Africa, cervical cancer is increasing steadily, with more than 75,000 new cases and nearly 50,000 deaths a year (Mboumba et al., 2017). In Senegal, pathologies such as cervical cancer are at the top of the causes of death and Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the aetilogical agent (Steenbergen et al., 2005). MethodsThe aim of the study is to analyze the distribution of HPV among Senegalese women with cervical cancer. Main objectives of this study are to identify the HPV types associated or “co-associated” with cervical oncogenesis in Senegal. The correlations with risk factors of cervix carcinogenesis, with risk factors, were analyze too. Cervical biopsies were performed on women hospitalized at Aristide Hospital Le Dantec-Julio Curie Institute. Three methods has been used to detect HPV genotypes - SANGERsequencing genotyping (Applied BioSystems), PCR real-time approach technique (HPV 16 & 18 RealTime PCR kit) (www.bioneer.co.kr) and the genotyping approach from Chippron (HPV kit 3.5 LCDArray) (info@chipron.com). Results It this study, patients had multiple infections (co-infections) at all, and the majority of coinfections was High-risk types (HR-HPV types). The most common type of HPV in our study were 16 (34.37%), 18 (23.29%), 45 (10.75%), 33 (9.94%), 59 (9.09%), (3.97%) and 31 (3.69%). Among co-infections detected in different regions of Senegal among women with cervical cancer, we found that HPV types 16 and 18 had the highest prevalence. In the Dakar region, which had the highest number of cases, a prevalence of 17.89% of HR-HPV co-infections was noted. ConclusionPolygamy represents a cofactor in the occurrence of cervical cancer in Senegalese women. No association between HPV-High Risk co-infections and cancer stages.
Implementing a community model of early pregnancy care
Authors: Cox Rebecca , Khalid Somia , Brierley Gemma , Forsyth Annie , McNamara Ruth , Heppell Victoria , Granne Ingrid
Published: October 2019

Introduction In the UK Early Pregnancy Assessment Units (EPAUs) are usually situated alongside hospital maternity and gynaecology services. In June 2018, the Oxford EPAU relocated from the John Radcliffe Hospital to a community clinic. This is to our knowledge, the UK’s first community-based EPAU. This change was inspired by our patient feedback describing the co-location of the EPAU with maternity services as distressing.Methods Following the introduction of the community EPAU we developed a database to capture information on the patients seen in the clinic. This is a retrospective observational study of a single cohort of patients attending the clinic over an 8 month period. Data was collected from 1st July 2018 to 28th February 2019. This data included clinical, safety and patient experience outcomes.Results 2920 patient episodes were recorded, 1932 were new patients. 72.2% were diagnosed as viable pregnancies, 389 miscarriages were diagnosed, of which 84.1% were incomplete/missed and 15.9% were complete. Once miscarriage was confirmed 48.6% chose conservative management, 19.9% chose medical management, and 31.5% chose surgical management. 25 ambulance transfers occurred due to ruptured ectopic, suspected ectopic, heavy bleeding, collapse, or ectopic with no personal transport. 32 unplanned admissions from patients seen in EPAU accounted for 2.7% of all patients seen in EPAU. 58 patients had ultrasonographically confirmed or suspected ectopic pregnancies- 3% of patients seen in clinic. Patient feedback questionnaires have been consistently positive. Conclusion The development of a community EPAU has improved services to allow care closer to home in an environment separate from maternity care. Our data shows that a community EPAU is safe, can deliver good patient care and is a service valued by patients. Further research is indicated to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of community EPAUs and the long term safety and effectiveness of care.
Oncology nurses’ experiences with the implementation and trial of video communication in the follow-up of cancer patients in primary care: a pilot study in Norway
Authors: Rygg Lisbeth Østgaard , Brataas Hildfrid V. , Nordtug Bente
Published: September 2019

Background: Cancer survival has increased significantly over the last decade. An increasing number of patients require long-term health care. There is a need for new models of effective follow-up in primary cancer care.Objective: The aim was to provide knowledge about oncology nurses’ (ONs’) experiences and perceptions of the use of video communication (VC) to follow up with patients living at home.Methods: This was a descriptive, qualitative study of ONs’ experiences with implementing and trying VC. Data were gathered after a 3-month trial. Individual interviews were content analyzed.Results: Four female ONs participated. The study provides knowledge about the introduction of VC and its influences on follow-up care.Conclusions: With the provision of technical support and training during the introduction of VC and with the protection of patient safety, VC seems to be an effective addition to the traditional follow-up of cancer patients living at home. The findings indicate that VC can be used in primary cancer care. Our findings have practical consequences for nursing leaders considering VC in patient follow-up. Additional research is necessary.
Impact of Medical Professionals on Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas Aeruginosa: Moderation Effect of Workload Based on the Panel Data in China
Authors: Han Meng , Zhang Xinping
Published: October 2019

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) causes serious increase in morbidity, mortality and costs, especially carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA). Medical professionals play an important role in tackling AMR. Available studies overlooked the impact of workload on medical professionals in the relationship between medical professionals and AMR. This study explored the relationship between medical professionals and CRPA rate and the moderation effect of medical professionals’ workload in this relationship from a macro perspective. Methods: Based on panel data in China, hierarchical regression analysis was used to explore moderation effect of workload on medical professionals and CRPA rate. Fixed-effect model was applied to estimate the moderation effect models. Medical professionals were measured by the numbers of physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists, clinical microbiologists per 1000 populations. Workload was measured by the number of daily visits of physicians. Results: The numbers of physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists and clinical technicians were signiﬁcant negative with CRPA rate (Coef. = -0.889, -0.775,-1.176, -0.822; P= 0.003, 0.003, 0.011, 0.007, respectively). Workload had significant positive moderation effect between physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists, clinical technicians and CRPA rate (Coef.= 1.270, 1.400, 2.210, 1.634; P=0.004, 0.001, 0.035, 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: Increasing medical professionals may help curb CRPA. Measures to reduce medical professionals’ workload should be implemented to improve CRPA performance further.
Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Lalo Kile district, Oromia, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Yesuf Dejene Abraham , Abdissa Lensa Tesfaye , Gerbi Emiru Adeba , Tola Edosa Kifle
Published: October 2019

Objective : This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Lalo Kile district, Oromia, Western Ethiopia. Results : Out of the 315 respondents, the mean age was 24.7 ± 2.54 year ranging between 15-44 years. Majority of the respondents were Oromo in ethnicity (90.2%) and protestant in religion (83.2%) and almost all (99%) of the study participants were married. Regarding educational level, two hundred twenty-six (72%) of pregnant women were attended at least primary school and two hundred forty-six (78.1%) of the respondents were from farmer households. About half of the households (51.7%) had a monthly income of greater than 1000 ETB. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 43.8 %( 138/315) with the predominance of hookworm (33.7%) followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (7.3%). Being a farmer (AOR, 7.3; 95% CI: 1.46, 37.00), walking barefooted (AOR, 6.13; 95% CI: 1.98, 19.00) and absence of handwashing with soap and water after latrine (AOR, 5.36; 95% CI: 1.78, 16.00) were significantly associated with occurrence of the intestinal parasitic infection with p-value < 0.05. Keywords : Prevalence, Intestinal parasitic infection, pregnant women, Lalo Kile district
Efficient development of practically usable thermo-photo sensitive genic male sterile lines in wheat through doubled haploid breeding
Authors: Li Hongsheng , Li Shaoxiang , Abdelkhalik Sedhom , Shahzad Armaghan , Gu Jian , Yang Zhonghui , Ding Mingliang , Liu Kun , Zhao Hong , Yang Mujun
Published: October 2019

Two-line hybrid wheat system using thermo-photo sensitive genic male sterility (TPSGMS) is now a dominant and promising approach of wheat heterosis utilization in China. However, few TPSGMS lines available for practical application have always been a bottleneck affecting the efficiency of creating hybrids with strong heterosis since its establishment in 1992. This study aimed to improve the efficiency of developing TPSGMS lines by doubled haploid (DH) breeding. F 1 s and selected F 2 and F 3 sterile plants from 8 crosses made with 2 commercial TPSGMS lines K78S and K456S were used to produce DH lines by wheat × maize system. 24 elite sterile lines possessing stable sterility, good outcrossing and yield potentials, resistance to yellow rust and powdery mildew, and desirable plant height (50-60 cm) were obtained within 4 years. 20 out of 24 elite lines that performed stable sterility in tests of two or three years and high outcrossing rate (>70%) under open pollination, will be used for hybrid breeding later. The percentage of selected sterile lines in total tested DH lines produced from filial generations was in the order of F 3 > F 2 > F 1 for sterility, and F 2 > F 3 > F 1 for elite lines in this study, thus producing DHs from F 2 generation appeared to be the better choice considering the balance of overall breeding efficiency and time saving. This study verified that combining DH techniques with conventional breeding would be an efficient strategy for developing practically usable wheat TPSGMS lines, both in number and time saving.
Acceptability and practicability of self-management for patients with Parkinson's disease based on smartphone applications in China
Authors: Hu Jie , Yuan Dezhi , Zhao Qiuye , Wang Xuefei , Zhang Xiaotian , Jiang Qihui , Luo Huirong , Li Jing , Ran Jianhua , Li Jinfang
Published: October 2019

Background China has had about 1.2 billion mobile-phone users and the usage has been still growing, however, mobile-health(m-Health) services are currently in the initial stage and have not yet prevailed. Additionally, the prevalence of Parkinson's disease (PD) is 190/100,000 in China, and patients need m-Health to manage their PD. Therefore, this study was designed to determine the attitudes and practicability towards about smartphone applications (APPs) of self-management of chronic condition among the elderly with PD in China.Methods Total 204 participants with PD were selected, from 52 to 87 years, and conducted by attitude surveys concerning using APPs for managing chronic condition via questionnaires.Results Among the total participants, 65.19% subjects had smartphones, and 82.84% ones preferred to use APPs for PD management, who were younger and more frequent web users with higher education standards and better medication compliance as well as longer PD courses and worse conditions of PD, compared with the rest of subjects( P < 0.001, P = 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.041, P < 0.001, P = 0.013. Additionally, the preference of patients for the use of the APPs is positively related to education standards( P < 0.001), while negatively related to age and PD course ( P = 0.017, P < 0.001).Conclusion Patients with PD are positive about self-management of smartphone APPs in China. Consequently, improving the coverage of smartphones developing practical and handy APPs would become a novel and promising strategy for PD self-management.
Prognostic factor for the response to intravitreal bevacizumab treatment in central serous chorioretinopathy patients.
Authors: Lee Chunghyun , Kim Yu Jeong , Joe Soo Geun , Yang Sungjae
Published: October 2019

Objective To evaluate prognostic factors associated with good response to intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) treatment in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) patients. Methods We retrospectively reviewed ninety-four eyes of 94 CSC patients who received intravitreal bevacizumab injection(IVB) (0.05 ml, 1.25 mg) as a first line treatment. Patients were divided into two groups as good responders and poor responders based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings 1 month after the first injection of intravitreal bevacizumab. Good responders were defined as complete resolution of subretinal fluid (SRF) on OCT 1 month after IVB. We compared baseline visual acuity, duration of symptoms, angiographic findings on fluorescein angiography, central retinal thickness (CRT), macular volume (MV),subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) between two groups. Results 42 eyes were included as good responder and 52 eyes as poor responders. Mean age was 47.8±7.4 year old ingood responders and 50.6±7.8 year old in poor responders. Baseline visual acuity (logMAR) was better in good responders than poor responders, 0.19±0.19 and 0.29±0.19 respectively (p=0.015). SFCT was significantly thicker in good responders than poor responders 419.7±103.2㎛ and 376.0±99.0㎛ respectively (p=0.040). Prevalence of chronic cases was higher in poor responders (33/52) than good responders (15/42), (p=0.012). There was no statistical significance in age, sex, CRT, MVbetween two groups. Conclusion Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab can be potential option for the treatment of CSC patients, especially in case of recent onset, better baseline visual acuity with thicker choroid on OCT.
Association between susceptibility of diabetic nephropathy and gene polymorphisms in ELMO1 and IL-8: a systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Yanting , Wang Xiaoming , Sun Yan , Wang Qiong , Wu Bing , Zhou Penghua , Li Zhenjiang
Published: October 2019

Background: The engulfment and cell motility 1 (ELMO1) and interleukin-8 (IL8) gene polymorphisms have been previously implicated in diabetic nephropathy (DN) susceptibility. However, the results are inconsistent. We aimed to examine this issue by systematic meta-analysis. Methods: An electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang Database to identify all the eligible studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to investigate the associations. All statistical analyses were performed by STATA 12.0. Results: Of the 11 studies included, 9 studies were performed to detect EMLO1 rs741301 polymorphism; 5 studies were used to examine IL-8 rs4073 polymorphism. The results revealed no significant association between EMLO1 rs741301 polymorphism and DN risk. While, stratified analysis by ethnicity indicated that EMLO1 rs741301 polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of DN risk among Asians (GG vs. GA +AA: OR= 1.840, 95% CI= 1.338-2.529, P= 0.000; GG vs. AA: OR= 1.834, 95% CI= 1.309-2.569, P= 0.000; G vs. A: OR= 1.222, 95% CI= 1.053-1.417, P= 0.008). As for IL-8 rs4073 polymorphism, a positive correlation between this gene polymorphism and DN risk was found (AA+AT vs. TT: OR= 1.450, 95% CI= 1.166-1.802, P= 0.001; AT vs. TT: OR= 1.420, 95% CI= 1.129-1.786, P= 0.003; AA vs. TT: OR= 1.553, 95% CI= 1.094-2.203, P= 0.014; A vs. T: OR= 1.291, 95% CI= 1.102-1.512, P= 0.002). After stratified population by ethnicity, the results in Caucasians remained significant (AA+AT vs. TT: OR= 1.770, 95% CI= 1.354-2.315, P= 0.000; AT vs. TT: OR= 1.733, 95% CI= 1.304-2.302, P= 0.000; AA vs. TT: OR= 1.939, 95% CI= 1.263-2.976, P= 0.002; A vs. T: OR= 1.494, 95% CI= 1.227-1.820, P= 0.000). Conclusions: This meta-analysis indicates that the GG genotype of EMLO1 rs741301 polymorphism and the A allele of IL-8 rs4073 polymorphism might be risk factors for the development of DN.
Research on the health of and interventions for family caregivers of people with dementia: a bibliometric analysis of research output during 1988–2018
Authors: Shi Hui , Mao Chen , Tang Jinling , Liang Huiying
Published: October 2019

Background: Dementia is a large and growing health problem, and since the majority of dementia patients live at home, caring responsibilities generally fall to family members. Caregivers are often inadequately supported by formal health services and have poorer psychological and physical health. Our study aimed to compare the contributions of publications from different countries, institutions and authors and present a bibliometric analysis to determine the future hotspots and trends in research on the health of and interventions for family dementia caregivers. Methods: Studies published during 1988-2018 were extracted from the Science Citation Index Expanded of the Web of Science. Each publication was evaluated to obtain the basic information. Bibliometric analysis was used to evaluate the number or cooperation networks of publications, countries, institutions, journals, citations, authors, references, and keywords. The resulting articles were analyzed descriptively, and data were produced for VOSviewer. Results: Five hundred forty-two articles were identified.The annual number of relevant publications has increased steadily since approximately 2006. The USA has the highest number of publications (36.2%), followed by the UK (12.9%). China entered late, but research there has developed rapidly. The most productive institution, journal, and author in this field are University College London, the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, and Orrell M from the UK, respectively. A co-occurrence analysis of keywords reveals a mainstream research focus on burden, depression, quality of life, and corresponding interventions for dementia patient caregivers. The keywords “psychosocial intervention”, “long-term”, “e-learning/online”, “communication”, and “qualitative research” reflect the latest hotspots, appearing in approximately 2017-2018. Conclusion: Our study details the performance statistics of and the main topics and trends in the research on the health of and interventions for dementia caregivers from 1988 to 2018 and provides a comprehensive analysis.
Creating Successful Elder-Friendly Spaces: A Conceptual Framework for Urban Public Spaces
Authors: Lak Azadeh , Aghamolaei Reihaneh , Baradaran Hamid R , Myint Phyo K
Published: October 2019

Background: Although issues of elderly people’s active life in public spaces are increasingly being reevaluated, the amount of research dedicated to enhancing urban public space qualities based on the concept of elders’ preferences is still limited. Methods: This study aims to identify the elders’ preferences specially their use of public open spaces in residential neighborhoods. The research applied in two steps; first, Grounded Theory (GT) is conducted through semi-structured interviews. 52 in-depth interviews are conducted with the elderly. Results: The analyzed data will then be examined to extract the main categories. Second, the survey is conducted through a questionnaire developed by authors, inquiring 350 elder people and analyzed by SmartPLS technique to validate the results of the developed model Conclusion: The model of the elders’ preferences consists of Places Functional (PF), Places Preferences (PP), and Process in Environments (PE). The findings will highlight both their theoretical and practical implications for urban planners and designers.
Factors influencing postoperative LOS after fragility hip fracture surgery: public perceptions – a mixed methods study
Authors: Marufu Takawira , Almghairbi Dalal , Elphick Heather , Ahmed Farah B , Moppett Iain K
Published: October 2019

Background Postoperative patient outcomes after hip fracture are significant to patients and their relatives, clinicians and policy makers. However, little is known about the collective views of these stakeholders on postoperative factors perceived to cause prolonged hospitalisation in this patient population. We aimed to explore individual stakeholders’ opinions on factors influencing timing of discharge.Methods Using a mixed methods approach, healthcare professionals, patients and relatives completed a questionnaire and interviews. The questionnaire consisted of 13 morbidity and non-medical domains on a five-point Likert scale. Participants were asked to rank each item identifying its importance in influencing length of hospital stay; 1 = strongly disagree, 2 = disagree, 3 = neither disagree nor agree, 4 = agree, 5 = strongly agree. Interviews were semi-structured exploring participant perceptions.Findings Twenty-six participants completed both interviews and questionnaires; three completed questionnaires only. Five themes affecting LOS emerged from interview data analysis; medical conditions, age and frailty, psychological aspects, the recovery process and social issues. There were some differences between the importance attributed by the semi-quantitative rating scales and the qualitative themes generated. Quantitative data suggested medical factors (pulmonary, infectious, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neurological, haematological, wound and pain). The interviews however highlighted functional and social aspects of recovery as key for patients and relative participants.Conclusion Recovery and discharge from hospital following hip fracture is understood by patients, carers or staff to be a complex interplay between medical conditions, psychosocial factors and the practicalities of living with increased dependency. Approaches to improving outcome will need to address each of these domains if they are to be effective.
Marital Status, An Independent Predictor for Survival of Gastric Neuroendocrine Neoplasm Patients: A Population-based, Propensity Score-matched Study
Authors: Zhou Yu-Jie , Lu Xiao-Fan , Zheng Kenneth I. , Wang Qi-Wen , Chen Jin-Nan , Zhang Qing-Wei , Yan Fang-Rong , Li Xiaobo
Published: October 2019

Background Marital status proves to be an independent prognostic factor in a variety of cancers. However, its prognostic impact on gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms (G-NEN) has not been investigated.Material and Methods We identified 3947 G-NEN patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Meanwhile, propensity scores for marital status were used to match 506 unmarried patients with 506 married patients. We used Kaplan–Meier method and multivariate Cox regression to analyse the association between marital status and the overall survival (OS) and G-NEN cause-specific survival (CSS) before matching and after matching.Results Married patients enjoyed better OS and CSS, compared with divorced/separated, single, and widowed patients. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that unmarried status was associated with higher mortality hazards for both OS and CSS among G-NEN patients. Additionally, widowed individuals had the highest risks of overall and cancer-specific mortality compared to other unmarried groups in both males and females. Furthermore, marital status remained an independent prognostic and protective factor for both OS and CSS in 1:1 propensity score-matched analysis.Conclusion Marital status was an independent prognostic factor for G-NEN. Meanwhile, widowed patients with G-NEN had the highest risk of death compared with single, married, and divorced/separated patients.
The body weight-walking distance product as a superior parameter in determining the VO2 on-kinetics in coronary artery disease
Authors: Rocco Isadora S. , Gomes Walter J. , Pauletti Hayanne O. , Viceconte Marcela , Matos-Garcia Bruna C. , Moreira Rita Simone L. , Arena Ross , Guizilini Solange
Published: October 2019

Background The 6-minute walk test distance is frequently used to assess functional capacity of cardiac disease population. Nevertheless, anthropometric differences can confound or misestimate performance, which highlights the need for new parameters. This study aims to investigate the potential of the body weight-walking distance product (D.W), compared to 6-minute walk test distance, to predict exercise capacity measured by VO 2 on-kinetics in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients.Methods Cross-section study in a tertiary-care reference institution. Forty-six participants with multiarterial CAD with and without left ventricular dysfunction underwent a 6-minute walk test with simultaneous use of mobile telemetric cardiopulmonary monitoring to evaluate oxygen uptake (VO 2 ) on-kinetics and other cardiorespiratory responses.Results Perceived effort Borg for lower limb fatigue was only correlated with the D.W (p=0.007). The percent-predicted and actual distance were only modestly to moderately correlated with VO 2 on-kinetics (p<0.05). All the associations of VO 2 on-kinetics parameters were improved by showing a stronger correlation to the D.W (p<0.0001), which also had a larger effect size to identify differences between coronary disease patients compared to distance ( d =1.32 vs d =0.84).Conclusion The D.W demonstrates potential as a measure superior to the distance in determining VO 2 on-kinetics in participants with CAD with and without left ventricular dysfunction.
microRNA-30c promotes myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury by activating SIRT1 mediating NF-κB pathway
Authors: Chen Jianfeng , Xue Shufeng , Zhang Mingming , Wu Junlong , Zhang Shouyan
Published: October 2019

Background This study aimed to investigate the effect of miR-30c on myocardial ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury and its underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods In our study, rat myocardial IR injury model was established and hemodynamic examination was performed. Moreover, the myocardial infarct size was detected by TTC staining. The pathologic change of myocardial tissues was measured by HE staining. The myocardial cell apoptosis was measured by TUNEL staining and flow cytometry. The expression of miR-30c and Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) was detected by qRT-PCR. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were detected by ELISA. The expressions of Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3, p-IκBα, IκBα, p-NF-κB p65, NF-κB p65 and SIRT1 were detected by western blot. The luciferase activity was measured by dual luciferase reporter gene assay. Interaction between miR-30c and SIRT1 were analyzed by RNA immunoprecipitation assay.Results Our results showed that rat myocardial IR injury model was successfully established and IR injury induced myocardial injury in rats. miR-30c increased the levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α and myocardial cell apoptosis by activating NF-κB pathway. In addition, we also confirmed that SIRT1 was the target gene of miR-30c. SIRT1 could reverse the effect of miR-30c on the process of inflammation and apoptosis, as well as the activation of NF-κB pathway in myocardial cells.Conclusions Our study demonstrated that miR-30c could promote myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury through activating SIRT1 mediating NF-κB pathway.
Hole edge morphology by intraoperative OCT predicts restoration of the retina microstructure in macular hole surgery
Authors: Tao Jiwei , Chen Huan , Zhu Lin , Pan Deming , Fang Jia , Chen Yiqi , Mao Jianbo , Shen Lijun
Published: October 2019

Objectives: To investigate the association between iOCT feature inmacular hole surgery and the restoration of the retina microstructure and visualoutcomes. M ethods: Fifty-three eyes of 53 patients with macular hole were recruited in this retrospective study. All eyes were assessed with intraoperative OCT after internal limiting membrane peeling. We divided the patients in to three groups:fovel flap group, hole-door group, and negative group，according to morphological changes on the edge of hole using iOCT after ILM peeling. We compared the anatomical and functional surgical outcomes between these groups. ResultsThe negative group had significantly poorer BCVA and restoration of the ELM than other two groups(P=0.002,0.012) at 6 months postoperatively. In the hole size ≤400um group，There were no statistical difference of ELM restoration and BCVA postoperatively between the groups. While in hole size > 400um group, The hole-door group and fovea flap group had significantly better final visual acuity and restoration of ELM than the negative group(P=0.013,P=0.005) Conclusion: This study describes a novel intraoperative sign using iOCT. This sign is a useful predictor of postoperative in restoration of the retina microstructure and visual outcomes of the macular hole，especially in large macular hole.
Correlation between macular edema recurrence and macular capillary network destruction in branch retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Jang Ji Hye , Kim Yu Cheol , Shin Jae Pil
Published: October 2019

Purpose: To evaluate the correlation between changes of the macular capillary network and macular edema (ME) recurrence in branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) angiography. Methods: We reviewed the data of 43 patients with treatment-näive ME associated with BRVO. Patients who received intravitreal bevacuzumab injection were divided into two groups based on ME recurrence after 6 months after edema resolution. The perifoveal capillary morphology and the macular capillary vessel density (VD) were retrospectively analyzed with en face SS-OCT angiography image after ME resolution. Results: In the ME recurrence group (n=22), a broken the perifoveal capillary ring in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) was more common than the no ME recurrence group (p = 0.047 and p = 0.002). The destruction of the perifoveal capillary ring of the DCP (30.0° vs 87.3°, p = 0.001) was more severe than that of the SCP (17.3° vs 69.5°, p = 0.006) in the ME recurrence group compared with the no ME recurrence group. The hemi-VD disparity between the affected areas and the unaffected areas in the SCP and DCP showed significant differences (p = 0.031 and p = 0.017), while macular VD showed no differences between the groups. Conclusions: The destroyed perifoveal capillary ring and the hemi-VD disparity were related to the recurrence of ME in BRVO. Therefore, these factors can be helpful in predicting ME recurrence.
Variability of CVP and Fluid Overload are Associated with Sepsis-associated Acute Kidney Injury: a case-control study
Authors: Huang Minqiang , Han Wei , Han Ming , Kuang Lei
Published: October 2019

Background: The relationship between central venous pressure (CVP) and sepsis-associated acute kidney injury is not extensively explored. The study aimed to investigate the association of CVP and new-onset SAKI.Methods: Septic patients with new-onset AKI (SAKI) were identified from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-III database. Propensity score (PS) was used to account for the baseline differences between SAKI and non-SAKIs. In order to estimate association between CVP variability and AKI, we applied the generalize estimate equation (GEE) to adjust for potential confounding such as cumulative fluid balance and in-ICU medication usage. Results: A total of 916 septic patients with new-onset AKI were enrolled in the study, including 458 in the SAKI group and 458 in non-SAKI group. After PS matching, baseline factors such as SOFA, SAOSII, APSIII and LODS score, as well as baseline diseases including hypertension, diabetes, liver and renal disease were balanced between SAKIs and non-SAKIs. SAKI groups showed higher CVP variation (SAKI vs.non-SAKI:0.83 vs.0.68, p=0.03) and accumulative fluid balance (SAKI vs. non-SAKI: Day 1:3449.8 vs.2930.3; Day 2:4801.1 vs. 3916.6; Day 3: 6018.5 vs.5005.8, p=0.007). GEE was further used to estimate the association between CVP variation and SAKI. The model showed that, increased CVP variation (OR=1.14 ,95%CI 1.01-1.28, p=0.03), higher fluid accumulation (OR=1.02 95%CI 1.00-1.05, p=0.04) were associated with increased risk of SAKI. Conclusions: We found that variability of CVP and higher fluid accumulation were associated with higher risk of new-onset SAKI in septic patients in this study. The results need to be verified in further prospective trials.
Changes of the body posture in the sagittal plane of young adults during Matthiass test
Authors: Zawadka Magdalena , Kochman Maciej , Gawda Piotr , Jablonski Miroslaw
Published: October 2019

Background Postural assessment is an important part of the physical examination in the physical therapy practice. One of the most commonly used clinical tests is an arm-raising Matthiass test. The aim of this study was to investigate posture changes in sagittal plane observed during Matthiass test in young adults using a rasterstereography method. Methods Fourteen young and healthy volunteers, nine female and four male aged between 21 and 25 took part in this study. Examination s performed with the rasterstereographic measuring device. Results Trunk inclination significantly decreased during Matthiass test and the pelvis inclination increased. Distance between kyphosis apex and cervical lordosis apex was significantly shorter during the test than in standing position. Distance between kyphosis apex and lumbar lordosis apex significantly increased during Matthiass test. Kyphosis angle was significantly decreased and the lumbar lordosis angle was increased during the test. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that Matthias test can cause significant deviations in posture in young participants. Changes in the sagittal plane are observed mainly right after the elevation of the arms.
Birth asphyxia and its contributing factors among the neonates delivered at Negest Eleni Mohammed memorial teaching hospital, Southern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Abdo Ritbano Ahmed , Halil Hassen Mosa , Kebede Biruk Assefa , Anshebo Abebe Alemu , Gejo Negeso Gebeyehu
Published: October 2019

Background : Birth asphyxia is a major contributor to neonatal mortality worldwide. In Ethiopia, birth asphyxia remains a severe condition that leads to significant mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and contributing factors of birth asphyxia among the neonates delivered at the Negest Eleni Mohammed Memorial Teaching Hospital, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study design was employed from June 1- 30, 2019. Two hundred seventy nine study participants were selected using the systematic sampling method. Data were collected using a pretested structured interviewer administered questionnaire, check list and chart review . Data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and analyzed using statistical package for social sciences version 24. Descriptive and binary logistic regression analysis were made and P value of < 0.05 was considered significant. Result: The overall prevalence of birth asphyxia among newborns was 15.1%. Factors that were significantly associated with birth asphyxia included mothers aged ≥ 35 [AOR=6.4, 95% CI (2.0, 20.5)], primigravida [AOR=5.1, 95% CI (2.0, 13.3)], prolonged second stage of labor [AOR=4.6, 95%CI (1.6, 13.3)], preterm birth [AOR=4.7, 95% CI (1.5, 14.1)], meconium stained amniotic fluid [AOR=7.5, 95% CI (2.5, 21.4)]and tight nuchal [AOR=3.1, 95% CI (1.2, 9.3)]. Conclusion: Birth asphyxia is still prevalent in the study setting. The results of this study show the need for better maternal care, creating awareness about contributing factors of birth asphyxia to the maternity health professionals, careful monitoring of labor, and identifying and taking proper measures that could help in reducing the occurrence of birth asphyxia.
Genome wide screen for mutations mediates sensitive to sodium dodecyl sulfate in budding yeast
Authors: Cao Chunlei , Cao Zhengfeng , Yu Peibin , Zhao Yunying
Published: October 2019

Background: Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is one of the most widely used anionic alkyl sulfate surfactants. Toxicological information on SDS is accumulating, however, mechanisms of SDS toxicity regulation remain poorly understood. In this study, the relationship between the SDS-sensitive mutants and their intracellular ROS levels has been investigated.
Results : Through a genome-scale screen, we have identified 108 yeast single-gene deletion mutants that are sensitive to 0.03% SDS. These genes were predominantly related to the cellular processes of metabolism, cell cycle and DNA processing, cellular transport, transport facilities and transport routes, transcription and the protein with binding function or cofactor requirement (structural or catalytic). We further measured the intracellular ROS (reactive oxygen species) levels of 108 SDS-sensitive mutants treated with 0.015% SDS. The results showed that 85 SDS-sensitive mutants accumulated significantly higher intracellular ROS levels under SDS stress than the wild-type cells. Moreover, SDS could generate oxidative damage and up-regulate several antioxidant defenses genes, and some of the SDS-sensitive genes were involved in this process.
Conclusion: This study provides insight on yeast genes involved in SDS tolerance and the elevated intracellular ROS caused by SDS stress. Our findings provide a basis to understand molecular mechanisms underlying the detoxification of SDS by yeast cells.
The impact of dexmedetomidine added to ropivicaine for transversus abdominis plane block on stress response in laparoscopic surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Qin Zhaojun , Xiang Chunyan , Li Hongbo , Liu Tingting , Zhan Leyun , Xia Zhengyuan , Zhang Min , Lai Jianpin
Published: October 2019

Background: Intravenous dexmedetomidine is known to attenuate stress response in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery. We investigated whether the addition of the highly selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist dexmedetomidine into ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block could inhibit stress response during laparoscopic surgery, and determined the optimal dose of dexmedetomidine in it.
Methods: One hundred and twenty-five patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgery were included in this prospective and randomized double-blind study. Patients received general anesthesia with or without a total of 60 ml of 0.2% ropivacaine in combination with low (0.25 µg/kg), medium (0.50 µg/kg) or high dose (1.0 µg/kg) of dexmedetomidine for the four-quadrant transversus abdominis plane block ( n = 25). The primary outcomes were stress marker levels during the operation.
Results: One hundred and twenty patients completed the study protocol. Dexmedetomidine added to ropivacaine for transversus abdominis plane block significantly reduced serum levels of cortisol, norepinephrine, epinephrine, interleukin-6, blood glucose, mean arterial pressure and heart rate in a dose-dependent manner ( P < 0.05 ), accompanied with decreased anesthetic and opioid consumption during the operation ( P < 0.05 ), but the high dose of dexmedetomidine induced higher incidences of bradycardia than low or medium dose of dexmedetomidine ( P < 0.05 ).
Conclusion: The addition of dexmedetomidine at the dose of 0.5 µg/kg into ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block is the optimal dose to inhibit stress response with limited impact on blood pressure and heart rate in patients undergoing laparoscopy gynecological surgery.

Trial registration : This study was registered at www.chictr.org.cn on November 6th, 2016 (ChiCTR-IOR-16009753).
Keywords: Dexmedetomidine, Nerve block, Abdominal muscles, Stress response, Laparoscopy
A pragmatic pilot randomized phase II controlled trial of Prothrombin Complex Concentrates (PCC) versus Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) in adult patients who are Undergoing Heart Surgery (PROPHESY)
Authors: Green Laura , Roberts Neil , Cooper Jackie , Field Jane , Gill Ravi , Klein Andrew , Agarwal Seema , Stanworth Simom , Johnston Atholl , Monk Vivienne , O’Brien Ben
Published: October 2019

Background Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) is the accepted standard treatment for clotting factor replacement in bleeding patients during, or immediately after cardiac surgery. In the United Kingdom (UK) prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) is not licensed in this setting although it is being used in Europe, because it has a higher concentration of clotting factor levels, and it can be administered rapidly and in small volume, resulting in less volume overload during cardiac surgery. Methods PROPHESY is a pragmatic single-centre, open-label, randomized, controlled pilot trial that will assess whether it is feasible to perform a large trial in the future that will compare PCC versus FFP in patients who are bleeding (not on warfarin) and who require blood transfusion. Over a 15-month period, 50 patients will be randomized to PCC versus FFP if they develop active bleeding within 24 hours of cardiac surgery, and for whom the clinician has decided to administer FFP for treatment of bleeding. Standard laboratory and Point-of-Care assessments will be performed as per routine practice, and additional research blood samples will be taken at three time-points to assess haemostasis. Subjects will be assessed daily up to hospital discharge or 30 days or death (whichever occurs first) and will be followed up for 90 days after surgery to assess for thromboembolic complications, and hospital re-admission since discharge. Quality of life assessment will be performed pre-surgery and at 90 days. We will also perform qualitative research with clinical experts and patients to explore the understanding and experience with the interventions, and adherence to study procedures and protocol. Discussion There have been no randomized control trials that have compared the safety and efficacy of FFP versus PCC in cardiac surgery in patients who are bleeding. This pilot study will assess if individual components of a large trial are deliverable to assess the safety and efficacy of the two blood products in the future.
Experiences of pupils with severe special educational needs at special education institutions
Authors: Kairienė Daiva , Geležinienė Renata , Kaffemanienė Irena , Melienė Rita , Miltenienė Lina , Tomėnienė Laima
Published: October 2019

The article reveals the experiences of pupils with severe special educational needs (SEN) at special education institutions, which are analyzed in the context of inclusive education approach and research conducted in foreign countries data. The study follows qualitative research methodology. The data collected employing the semi-structured pupils’ individual interview method are presented. The study highlights pupils’ opinions on the opportunities and limitations of education at special and mainstream schools, their attitude to learning and discloses peculiarities of psychosocial environment at special schools.
Governance of factors for the regional insurance market development (evidence from Russia)
Authors: P. Kuznetsova Nataliya , Chernova Galina , Prokopjeva Evgenija , Boldyreva Natalja
Published: October 2019

Insurance is the most important institution for social and financial protection. Therefore, the development level of the regional insurance market not only determines the volume and quality of this protection, but also influences the social and economic development of the region through the coverage of risks and the provision of additional jobs. In turn, many factors have a significant impact on the development of the regional insurance market itself. This study is aimed at developing a model for governing the development factors of the regional insurance market, which (governance) focuses on improving the development efficiency of not only the regional insurance market itself, but also the socio-economic development of the relevant region. In this regard, the model for governing the factors of development of the regional insurance market involves solving the following scientific problems: identifying national factors for the functioning and development of the Russian insurance market that influence the development of the regional insurance market; determining regional development factors affecting the regional insurance market; identifying the impact of the regional insurance market on the socio-economic development of the region; developing recommendations on the effective impact of national and regional factors on the regional insurance market development and, through it, on the socio-economic development of the region. Implementation of the proposed model for governing the factors for the regional insurance market development will increase its efficiency and strengthen the socio-economic development of the region.