bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hearing and vision care provided to older people residing in care homes: a cross-sectional survey of care home staff
Authors: Andrusjak Wendy , Barbosa Ana , Mountain Gail
Published: August 2020

Background:Hearing and vision loss in older people has been proven to affect physical and mental health and increase the speed of cognitive decline. Studies have demonstrated that certain practices and improved staff knowledge increase the effective care of residents’ ears and eyes, yet it is not known which practices are being implemented in care homes. This study aimed to identify the gaps in staff knowledge regarding hearing and vision difficulties in older residents, and which practices known to improve ear and eye care in older care home residents are not commonly implemented in care homes in England.Methods:This study used a cross-sectional survey design. Survey questions were informed by the existing literature and were focused on practices, staff knowledge, and other aspects that have shown to affect residents’ hearing and vision care. The survey was sent to care homes across England between November 2018 and February 2019 via email and in paper format for care home staff to complete. Descriptive statistics and Chi-Square analysis were applied to identify the factors influencing the care being provided to care home residents. Results:A total of 400 care home staff responded from 74 care homes. The results revealed that screening tools are rarely used by staff to identify hearing and vision impairments; that care homes have limited access to other assistive devices for hearing and vision loss, and that audiology services do not regularly assess care home residents. A majority of staff who responded were not confident in ear and eye care. Responses were found to be influenced by the respondents’ job role, length of time working in care homes and also the care home type and care home size. Findings confirmed a lack of standardised practice and the importance of shared communication for promulgation of best practice.Conclusion:This study has identified that some practices known to facilitate ear and eye care are not commonly applied in a sample of English care homes. It has also shown that care home staff knowledge of ear and eye care is inconsistent. The information derived from this survey can be used to inform guidelines for best practice and inform needs for future research.
Analysis of the Effect of Serious Illness Medical Insurance on Relieving the Economic Burden of Rural Residents in China: A Case Study in Jinzhai County
Authors: Li Yang , Duan Guangfeng , Xiong Linping
Published: August 2020

Background: In 2003, China established a New Rural Cooperative Medical System (NRCMS) for rural residents to alleviate the burden of medical expenses among rural residents. However, its reimbursement for high medical costs was insufficient. Therefore, China gradually established the Serious Illness Insurance System (SIMIS) based on NRCMS. After receiving payment through NRCMS, patients in rural areas who met the requirements of SIMIS policy would receive a second payment for their high medical expenses. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the implementation of SIMIS on alleviating the economic burden of rural residents in Jinzhai County.Methods: The study used the inpatient reimbursement data of NRCMS in Jinzhai County, Anhui Province, from 2013 to 2016. We adopted descriptive and regression discontinuity (RD) methods to analyze the payment effect of SIMIS. The RD analysis targeted patients (n = 7,353) whose annual serious illness expenses were between CNY 10,000 (1,414 USD) and CNY 30,000 (4,242 USD), whereas the descriptive analysis was used for data of the patients compensated by SIMIS (n = 2720).Results: The results of RD showed that the actual medical insurance payment proportion increased by about 2.5% (lwald = 0.025, P <0.01), inside medical insurance self-payment proportion increased by about 2% (lwald = 0.020, P <0.10), and outside medical insurance self-payment proportion decreased by about 1.6% (lwald = -0.016, P <0.05). The descriptive results showed that patients with serious illnesses mostly chose to go to a hospital outside the county. The annual average number of hospitalizations was 3.64. The reimbursement mainly came from the NRCMS. The payment amount of SIMIS was relatively small, and the out-of-pocket medical expenses were still high.Conclusion: The medical technology level of Jinzhai County could not meet the needs of patients with seriously illnesses, the number of beneficiaries of SIMIS was small, and the ability to relieve the burden of medical expenses of the rural residents was insufficient. The high out-of-pocket expenses increased the possibility that only people with good economic conditions could benefit from the reimbursement of SIMIS, resulting in inequity.
Assessment of the Efficacy of the Far Cortical Locking Technique for Proximal Humeral Fractures: A Comparison with the Conventional Bicortical Locking Technique
Authors: S. J.B. , Y. J.S. , K. Y.J. , K. K.B.
Published: August 2020

Background Locking plate fixation is one of the treatment strategies for the management of proximal humeral fractures. However, stiffness after locking plate fixation is a clinical concern. The mechanical stiffness of the standard locking plate system may suppress the interfragmentary motion necessary to promote secondary bone healing by callus formation. The far cortical locking (FCL) technique was developed to address this limitation in 2005. FCL increases construct flexibility and promotes callus formation. Our study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of the FCL technique when implemented in proximal humeral fracture management. Furthermore, we compared the surgical outcomes of FCL with those of the conventional bicortical locking (BCL) screw fixation technique.Methods Forty-five consecutive patients who had undergone locking fixation for proximal humeral fractures were included in this study. A proximal humeral locking plate (PHILOS) system with BCL screw fixation was used in the first 27 cases, and the periarticular proximal humeral locking plate with FCL screw fixation was used in the final 18 consecutive cases. Functional capacity was assessed using the constant score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and range of motion. Radiographic outcomes were evaluated using the Paavolainen method of measuring the neck-shaft angle (NSA).Results No significant differences in clinical outcomes (ASES score, constant score, and range of motion)were found between the two groups. The union rate at 12 weeks was significantly higher in the FCL group (94.4%) than in the BCL group (66.7%, p=0.006). No significant differences in NSA were found between the two treatment strategies. The complication rate was not significantly different between the two groups.Conclusions When implemented in proximal humeral fractures, the FCL technique showed satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes as compared with the conventional BCL technique. The bone union rate at 12 weeks after surgery was significantly higher in the FCL group than in the BCL group. However, no significant difference in the final bone union rate was found between the two groups.Level of evidence: Level III-2, Retrospective study
An Audit Tool for Longitudinal Assessment of the Health-Related Characteristics of Urban Neighborhoods: Implementation Methods and Reliability Results
Authors: Dastidar Bonnie Ghosh , Hunter Gerald , Sloan Jennifer C , Collins Rebecca L , Richardson Andrea S , Troxel Wendy , Colabianchi Natalie , Dubowitz Tamara
Published: August 2020

Background: Improving the neighborhood environment may help address chronic disease and mortality. To identify neighborhood features that are predictors of health, objective assessments of the environment are used. Multiple studies have reported on cross-sectional assessments of health-related neighborhood features using direct observation. As study designs expand to better understand causation and predictors of change, there is a need to test whether direct observation methods are adequate for longitudinal assessment. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report on the reliability of repeated measurements of the neighborhood environment, and their stability, over time.Methods: The Pittsburgh Hill/Homewood Research on Neighborhood Change and Health (PHRESH) study conducted longitudinal assessments in two low-income, African American neighborhoods at three waves (years 2012, 2015, 2017). The PHRESH audit tool is a modification of earlier validated tools, with an emphasis on environment features relevant for physical activity, sleep, and obesogenic behaviors. Trained data-collector pairs conducted direct observations of a 25% sample of street segments in each neighborhood. At each wave, we audited a sub-sample of street segments twice and assessed reliability using percentage inter-observer agreement and krippendorf’s alpha statistics. Stability of these items was assessed as exhibiting moderate or high agreement at every time point. Results: Across waves, a majority (81%) of the items consistently demonstrated moderate to high agreement except for items such as public/communal space, amount of shade, sidewalk features, number of traffic lanes, garden/flower bed/planter, art/statue/monument, amount of trash, and physical disorder. The list of items with poor agreement includes features that are easy to miss (e.g. flower bed/planter), hard to assess from outside (e.g. public/communal space), or may change quickly (e.g. amount of trash). Conclusion: In this paper, we have described implementation methods, reliability results and lessons learned to inform future studies of change. We found the use of consistent methods allowed us to conduct reliable, replicable longitudinal assessments of the environment. Items that did not exhibit stability are less useful for detecting real change over time. Overall, the SSA direct observation tool is an effective and practical instrument to detect change in the neighborhood environment.
Influence of Bacterial Organic Selenium on Blood Parameters, Immune Response, Selenium Retention and Intestinal Morphology of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Dalia A. M. , Loh T. C. , Sazili A. Q. , Samsudin Anjas Asmara
Published: August 2020

Background: Several studies indicated that dietary organic selenium (Se) usually absorbed better than an inorganic source, with high retention and bioavailability. Dietary Se as an antioxidant element affects the immune system and hematological status in animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of bacterial selenium as an organic source on hematology, immunity response, selenium retention, and gut morphology in broiler chickens. Results: The present results revealed that supplementation of inorganic Se was associated with the lowest level of RBC, HB, and PCV with significant difference than ADS18-Se. In the starter stage, both T2 and T5 were associated with the significantly highest IgG level compared to the basal diet, while all supplemented groups showed higher IgM levels compared to the control group. In the finisher phase, all Se supplemented groups showed significant (P ˂ 0.05) increases in IgG, IgA, and IgM levels compared to T1. Birds fed bacterial-Se showed high intestinal villus height and better Se retention more than sodium selenite. The organic selenium of ADS18 had a superior action in improving Se retention compared to ADS1 and ADS2 bacterial Se. Conclusion: Bacterial organic Se had a beneficial effect on the villus height of small intestine led to high Se absorption and retention. Thus, it caused a better effect of Se on hematological parameters and immunity response.
Peripheral Anterior Chamber Depth and Screening Techniques for Primary Angle Closure Disease in Community Elderly Chinese
Authors: Luo Qin , Xue Wenwen , Yuan Yin , Fu Chaowei , He Jiangnan , Zou Haidong , Tong Xiaowei , Lee Richard K. , Ge Ling
Published: August 2020

Background

To investigate the distribution of peripheral anterior chamber depth (ACD) and the relationship between peripheral ACD and gonioscopy compared to other ocular parameters for primary angle closure disease (PACD) screening.

Methods

Cross-sectional study. Adults 50 and older were enrolled from a population-based study using cluster random sampling in Pudong New District, Shanghai. Remote ocular screening was performed with digital anterior eye structure photography. Van Herrick measurements were used to evaluate the peripheral ACD, the depth of the peripheral anterior chamber, and corneal thickness (CT), and the ACD to CT ratio was calculated. Subjects with peripheral ACD less than 0.5 CT were made follow-up appointments for clinical examination with gonioscopy. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were generated to show the performance of different tests in screening for primary angle closure disease (PACD).

Results

2528 adults participated in the study with 91 patients diagnosed with PACD. 2463 subjects had valid data in the right eye available for analysis. The mean peripheral ACD values for men and women were significantly different: 1.04±0.46 (range 0.11-2.93) CT and 0.87±0.41 (range 0.12-2.96) CT respectively (t=-4.18; P<0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis reveals that peripheral ACD declined by 0.31 CT (P<0.0001) per diopter of SE and was 0.19 CT (P<0.0001) shallower in women than in men (r2=0.1304, P<0.0001). Peripheral ACD performed best in screening for PACD.

Conclusions

Peripheral ACD measurement is recommended for PACD screening in community elderly Chinese.
The Epidemiology of Moebius Syndrome
Authors: carta arturo , Favilla Stefania , Calzetti Giacomo , Casalini Maria Cristina , Ferrari Pier Francesco , Bianchi Berrnardo , Simonelli Maria Beatrice , Farci Roberta , gandolfi Stefano , Mora Paolo
Published: August 2020

Background: The epidemiology of Moebius Syndrome (MBS) is actually difficult to assess. In the present study we investigated the epidemiology of MBS in a well-defined population over a precise geographical area. Materials and Methods: Our University Hospital is the only national referral Centre for the diagnosis and treatment of MBS. Participants to this cross sectional study are patients affected by MBS who have been periodically followed by our medical staff since 1998. Most of the patients were referred to our hospital by the Italian Association of Moebius Syndrome (AISMO). Demographic data necessary for our purposes were made available by AISMO database updated to April 2018. Subjects were assigned to the geographical macro- areas which are the ones conventionally used for surveys and epidemiological investigations by the Italian National Institute of Statistics. Rates and prevalence of the MBS cases were calculated referring to the last survey of the Italian population available. Every study parameter was then calculated by reference to the whole country and to macro-area partition. Gender rate and the corresponding prevalence were calculated with respect to the weighted whole population and to the respective gender population. Chi-square analysis was adopted to investigate possible differences among geographical regions and/or gender. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: One-hundred and sixty-four out of 212 MBS patients fulfilled our inclusion criteria. All cases were Caucasian and sporadic. The median age at diagnosis was 3.6 years, ranging from 0-55; this range was significantly reduced to 0-5 years (median age at diagnosis: 2.2 years) for patients included after 2007. The birth prevalence calculated was 0.06 cases per 10000 live births with an overall prevalence of 0.27/100000 without any gender or geographical predisposition. Conclusions: The rate of MBS prevalence herein observed, rounded for possible underestimation, is 0.3/100000 people without any regional difference in the distribution of the cases. Our data confirm on a national basis the rarity of the disease.
Secondary signs on preoperative CT as predictive factors for febrile urinary tract infection after ureteroscopic lithotripsy
Authors: Kim Jin Woo , Lee You Jin , Ha Yun-Sok , Lee Jun Nyung , Kim Hyun Tae , Chun So Young , Kim Bum Soo
Published: August 2020

Background: Febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common complications after ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URS). We evaluated the effect of secondary signs on preoperative computed tomography (CT) for febrile UTI after URS.Methods: In total, 182 patients who underwent URS for ureteral stones from January 2013 to December 2015 were retrospectively included in this study. These patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of postoperative febrile UTI after URS. We compared the clinical factors, stone factors, and secondary signs between the groups. Predictive factors for febrile UTI after URS were analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model. Results: Febrile UTI occurred in 26 of the 182 patients. In univariate analysis, presence of comorbid chronic kidney disease (CKD) and stone size were significantly different between UTI and non-UTI groups. Among secondary signs, presence of hydroureter, perinephric fat stranding, periureteral fat stranding, and tissue rim sign were significantly different between the groups. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, comorbid CKD, stone size, perinephric fat stranding, and tissue rim sign were independent predictive factors for febrile UTI after URS. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that secondary signs including perinephric fat stranding and tissue rim sign on preoperative CT, CKD, and stone size are independent predictive factors for febrile UTI after URS.
Delphi consensus on strategies in the management of opioid-induced constipation in cancer patients
Authors: Sarrió Regina Gironés , Calsina-Berna Agnès , García Adoración Gozalvo , Esparza-Miñana José Miguel , Ferrer Esther Falcó , Porta-Sales Josep
Published: August 2020

Background: Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a frequent and bothersome adverse event related with opioid therapy in cancer patients. Despite the high prevalence, medical management of OIC is often uncertain. The current project aimed to investigate expert opinion on OIC management and provide practical recommendations to improve the clinical approach of OIC in cancer patient.Methods: A modified Delphi method was conducted involving 46 different physicians experts in OIC. Using a structured questionnaire of 67 items this project intended to seek consensus on aspects related to diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life of cancer patients suffering with OIC.Results: After two rounds, a consensus was reached in 91% of the items proposed, all in agreement. Agreement was obtained on OIC definition (95.7%). Objective and patient-reported outcomes included in that definition should be assessed routinely in clinical practice. Responsive to symptom changes and easy-to-use assessment tools were recommended (87.2%). Successful diagnosis of OIC requires increase clinicians awareness of OIC and proactivity to discuss symptoms with their patients (100%). Successful management of OIC requires individualization of the treatment (100%), regular revaluation once is established, and keeping it for the duration of opioid treatment (91.5%). Oral Peripherally Acting µ-Opioid Receptor Agonists (PAMORAs), were considered good alternatives for the treatment of OIC in cancer patients (97.9%). This drugs and laxatives can be co-prescribed if OIC coexist with functional constipation.Conclusions: The panelists, based on their expert clinical practice, presented a set of recommendations for the management of OIC in cancer patients.
Midwives’ experiences of implementing respectful maternity care knowledge in daily maternity care practices after participating in a four-day RMC training
Authors: Dzomeku Veronica Millicent , Bemah Boamah Mensah Adwoa , Emmanuel Nakua Kweku , Pascal Agbadi , Jody Lori R. , Peter Donkor
Published: August 2020

Background: In Ghana, studies documenting the effectiveness of evidence-based specialized training programs to promote respectful maternity care (RMC) practices in healthcare facilities are few. Thus, we designed a four-day RMC training workshop and piloted it with selected midwives of a tertiary healthcare facility in Kumasi, Ghana. The present paper evaluated the impact of the training by exploring midwives’ experiences of implementing RMC knowledge in their daily maternity care practices four months after the training workshop.Methods: Through a descriptive qualitative research design, we followed-up and conducted 14 in-depth interviews with participants of the RMC training, exploring their experiences of applying the acquired RMC knowledge in their daily maternity care practices. Data were managed and analysed using NVivo 12. Codes were collapsed into subthemes and assigned to three major predetermined themes.Results: The findings have been broadly categorized into three themes: experiences of practising RMC in daily maternity care, health facility barriers to practising RMC, and recommendations for improving RMC practices. The midwives mentioned that applying the newly acquired RMC knowledge has positively improved their relationship with childbearing women, assisted them to effectively communicate with the women, and position them to recognize the autonomy of childbearing women. Despite the positive influence of the training on clinical practice, the midwives said the policy and the built environment in the hospital does not support the exploration of alternative birthing positions. Also, the hospital lacked the required logistics to ensure privacy for multiple childbearing women in the open labour ward. The midwives recommended that logistics for alternative birthing positions and for privacy in the ward should be provided. Also, all midwives and staff of the hospital should be taken through the RMC training program to encourage good practice.Conclusion: Despite the report of some RMC implementation challenges, the midwives noted that the 4-day RMC training has had a positive impact on their maternity caregiving practice in the hospital. Policies and programs aimed at addressing the issue of disrespect and abusive practices during maternity care should advocate and include the building of facilities that support alternative birthing positions and privacy of childbearing women during childbirth.
Post-breastfeeding stress response and breastfeeding self-efficacy as modifiable predictors of exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum: a longitudinal study
Authors: Shiraishi Mie , Matsuzaki Masayo , Kurihara Shoko , Iwamoto Maki , Shimada Mieko
Published: August 2020

Background: The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding of infants at 3 months postpartum is only 50% in Japan. In order to increase this rate, we aimed to examine modifiable factors related to exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum by focusing on breastfeeding-related and psychosocial variables at 1 month postpartum. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted in a secondary medical care center in Osaka, Japan from February 2017 to October 2018. Demographic variables, infant feeding modality, breastfeeding-related variables, and psychosocial variables were obtained using questionnaires at 1 month postpartum. Daytime salivary cortisol levels before and after breastfeeding at 1 month postpartum were measured as a biological marker for stress responses associated with breastfeeding. Each infant’s feeding modality was re-assessed at 3 months postpartum. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the factors affecting exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum. Results: Of the 104 participants, 61 reported exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum. The following factors were significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum: multiparity (adjusted odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: 11.13, 2.08–59.59), having a university degree (5.25, 1.04–26.53), no plan to return to work by 6 months postpartum (0.02, 0.00–0.46), exclusive breastfeeding at 1 month postpartum (42.84, 6.05–303.52), lower cortisol level after breastfeeding at 1 month postpartum (0.00, 0.00–0.02), and higher breastfeeding self-efficacy scale score at 1 month postpartum (1.07, 1.00–1.14). In parity-specific analyses, exclusive breastfeeding (25.33, 4.75–134.98) and lower cortisol level after breastfeeding (0.00, 0.00–0.21) at 1 month postpartum in primiparous women, and lower cortisol level after breastfeeding (0.00, 0.00–0.94), higher breastfeeding self-efficacy score (1.18, 1.05–1.32), and absence of breast complications (0.09, 0.01-0.82) at 1 month postpartum in multiparous women were associated with exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum. Conclusions: Stress levels after breastfeeding, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and presence of breast complications could be modifiable factors related to subsequent exclusive breastfeeding. Further research is needed to examine whether approaches to reducing breastfeeding-related stress, improving breastfeeding self-efficacy, and preventing breast complications during lactation are effective to increase exclusive breastfeeding practices.
The impact of frailty in aortic valve surgery. 
Authors: berastegui elisabet , CAmara Maria Luisa , Moret Enrique , Casas Irma , Badia Sara , Gallego Claudio FErnandez , Delgado Luis , Julia Ignasi , Llorens Anna , Romero Bernat , Genis Antoni Bayes , Guijosa Christian Muñoz
Published: August 2020

Background: Frailty is a geriatric syndrome that diminishes potential functional recovery after any surgical procedure. Preoperative surgical risk assessment is crucial to calibrate the risk and benefit of cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to test usefulness of FRAIL Scale and other surgical-risk-scales and individual features of frailty in cardiac aortic valve surgery. Methods: Prospective study. From May-2014 to February-2016, we collected 200 patients who underwent aortic valve replacement, either surgically or transcatheter. At 1-year follow-up, quality of life measurements were recorded using the EQ-5D (EuroQol). Univariate and multivariate analyses correlated preoperative condition, features of frailty and predicted risk scores with mortality, morbidity and quality of life at 1 year of follow-up. Results: Mean age 78.2y, 56%male. Mean-preoperative-scores: FRAIL scale 1.5(SD 1.02), STS 2.9(SD 1.13), BI 93.8(SD 7.3), ESlog I 12.8(SD 8.5) and GS 7.3s (SD 1.9). Morbidity at discharge, 6 m and 1 year was 51%, 14% and 28%. Mortality 4%. Survival at 6m/ 1-y was 97% / 88%. Complication-rate was higher in TAVI group due to-vascular complications. Renal dysfunction, anemia, social dependence and GS slower than 7 seconds were associated with morbidity. On multivariate analysis adjusted STS, BI and GS speed were statistically significant. Quality of life at 1-year follow-up adjusted for age and prosthesis type showed a significant association with STS and FRAIL scale scores. Conclusions: Frailty increases surgical risk and is associated with higher morbidity. Preoperative GS slower 7 s, and STS and FRAIL scale scores seem to be reliable predictors of quality of life at 1-year follow-up.
Moral neutralization: Nurses' evolution in unethical climate workplaces
Authors: Hakimi Hamideh , Joolaee Soodabeh , Farahani Mansoureh Ashghali , Rodney Patricia , Ranjbar Hadi
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Good quality of care is dependent on nurses’ strong clinical skills and strong moral competencies, as well. However, the moral performance of some nurses in some organizations shows a deterioration in their moral sensitivity and actions. The aim of the study reported on in this paper was to explore the experiences of nurses regarding negative changes in their moral practice.

Materials and Methods

This was a qualitative study utilizing a inductive thematic analysis approach, which was conducted from February 2017 to September 2019. Twenty-five nurses participated in semi-structured interviews.

Results

The main theme that emerged from our analysis was one of moral neutralization in the context of an unethical moral climate. We found five sub-themes, including: (1) feeling discouraged; (2) normalization; (3) giving up; (4) becoming a justifier; and (5) moral indifference.

Conclusions

Unethical moral climates in health organizations can result in deterioration of morality in nurses which can harm both pateints and health syetms. Some unethical behaviors in nurses can be explaiened by this process.
ESCRT machinery plays a role in microautophagy in yeast
Authors: Morshed Shamsul , Tasnin Most Naoshia , Ushimaru Takashi
Published: August 2020

Background: Microautophagy, which degrades cargos by direct lysosomal/vacuolar engulfment of cytoplasmic cargos, is promoted after nutrient starvation and the inactivation of target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) protein kinase. In budding yeast, microautophagy has been commonly assessed using processing assays with green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged vacuolar membrane proteins, such as Vph1 and Pho8. The endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) system is proposed to be required for microautophagy, because degradation of vacuolar membrane protein Vph1 was compromised in ESCRT-defective mutants. However, ESCRT is also critical for the vacuolar sorting of most vacuolar proteins, and hence reexamination of the involvement of ESCRT in microautophagic processes is required.Results: Here, we show that the Vph1-GFP processing assay is unsuitable for estimating the involvement of ESCRT in microautophagy, because Vph1-GFP accumulated highly in the prevacuolar class E compartment in ESCRT mutants. In contrast, GFP-Pho8 and Sna4-GFP destined for vacuolar membranes via an alternative adaptor protein-3 (AP-3) pathway, were properly localized on vacuolar membranes in ESCRT-deficient cells. Nevertheless, microautophagic degradation of GFP-Pho8 and Sna4-GFP after TORC1 inactivation was hindered in ESCRT mutants, indicating that ESCRT is indeed required for microautophagy after nutrient starvation and TORC1 inactivation.Conclusions: These findings provide evidence for the direct role of ESCRT in microautophagy induction.
Comparison of Ultrasound Cycloplasty and Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation for Refractory Glaucoma in Chinese Population
Authors: Yu Qiuli , Liang Ya , Ji Fangfang , Yuan Zhilan
Published: August 2020

Background

To compare the efficacy and safety of focused ultrasound cycloplasty (UCP) and transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCP) in the treatment of refractory glaucoma in a Chinese population.

Methods

We retrospective compared twenty-eight eligible patients with refractory glaucoma, who were divided into the UCP group and TSCP group. Patients in these two groups underwent a corresponding procedure from June 2018 to February 2019. The intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, the number of anti-glaucoma agents used and complications were reviewed and compared between groups. Proper statistical methods were selected according to comparison models under IBM SPSS 25 software.

Results

After the 12-months follow-up, postoperative IOP and number of anti-glaucoma agents used in the two groups were both reduced than the baseline level, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in IOP, number of anti-glaucoma agents and the best-corrected visual acuity between the two groups at each follow-up time point (P＞0.05). In terms of complications, the pain at 1 day after surgery in the UCP group was significantly milder than that in the TSCP group (P<0.05). And there were no significant differences in other complications between the two groups (P>0.05).

Conclusions

Both UCP and TSCP are safe and effective methods for the treatment of refractory glaucoma. Nevertheless, pain is less severe after UCP.
Low concentration effects and different outcome in repeated reproduction tests with silver nanoparticles, silver nitrate and Folsomia candida (Collembola)
Authors: Zhang Xin , Filser Juliane
Published: August 2020

Background Toxicity of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) has been studied frequently due to a rise in application in various products. Various studies on AgNP toxicity with terrestrial and aquatic organisms confirmed their negative effects. In our previous experiments, strong variability was observed in the reproduction of Collembola (Folsomia candida) in different repeats. To investigate the effects of silver on the reproduction of Folsomia candida, they were exposed in laboratory controlled conditions to AgNP and silver nitrate (AgNO3) at a concentration of 30 mg/kg dry soil for 28 days and compared to controlled individuals not exposed to silver. The temporal variability of the reproduction using Folsomia candida and its sensitivity to silver was explored by repeating the tests were four times in April, July, October and January through out one year. Results While adult survival was similar in all treatments and seasons, reproduction in the control increased from April to October. Significantly lower reproduction was found in January with only 385-424 juveniles per vessel, compared to 504-633 individuals in other months. Strong toxic effects of both silver treatments were observed in July, April and October. However, AgNP showed no toxic effects on the reproduction of F. candida in January. The relative toxicity of both substances varied between single experiments: AgNP were more toxic than AgNO3 in April and July, and less toxic in October and January. Conclusion These findings indicate that the reproduction of F. candida in the control had a significant effect on the results of the toxicology experiments. Moreover, we demonstrated the reproductive toxicity of AgNP in soil at a much lower concentration than reported thus far. Therefore, to guarantee reliability and reproducibility, we recommend to disregard any test results where the reproduction rate of F. candida in the control is significantly different from the average in the respective laboratory, even if the validity criteria of the test are met.
The plasma level of mCRP is linked to cardiovascular disease in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis
Authors: Wu Kaili , Liang Qinghui , Huang Bin-Tao , Ding Na , Li Bowei , Hao Jian
Published: August 2020

[Background] C-reactive protein (CRP) has two natural isomers: C-reactive protein pentamer (pCRP) and C-reactive protein monomer (mCRP). The levels of CRP are significantly elevated in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). mCRP not only activates the endothelial cells, platelets, leukocytes, and complements, but also has a proinflammatory structural subtype that can localize and deposit in inflammatory tissues. Thus, it regulates a variety of clinical diseases, such as ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, Alzheimer’s disease, age-related macular degeneration, and cardiovascular disease. We hypothesized that plasma mCRP levels are related to cardiovascular disease in AAV. [Methods] In this cross-sectional study, 37 patients with AAV were assessed. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and mCRP in plasma were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) was diagnosed by coronary angiography, and the Gensini score calculated. Echocardiography evaluated the ejection fraction (EF%), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV), and left ventricular mass index (LVMI). Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated based on serum creatinine, age, and gender. [Results] The plasma level of mCRP in AAV was significantly higher than that in healthy volunteers (P<0.001). Then, mCRP and CRP levels were compared with and without STEMI complications in AAV. The plasma level of mCRP was higher, but that of CRP was lower in STEMI. The plasma level of mCRP was correlated with Birmingham vasculitis activity score (BVAS), eGFR, BNP, EF%, LVEDV, LVESV, LVMI, and STEMI complications’ Gensini score in AAV; however, CRP did not correlate with BNP, EF%, LVEDV, LVESV, LVMI, and Gensini score.[Conclusions] The plasma level of mCRP was related to cardiovascular diseases in AAV patients.
The changes of gut microbiota in drug-naïve first-episode MDD patients under treatment by SSRIs
Authors: Shen Yang , Yang Xiao , Li Gaofei , Xing Xiaoxi , Li Zhiyong , Huang Yichen , Gao Jiayu , Liang Ying
Published: August 2020

Background: Recently, several studies reported that transplanting stool from depressed patients could induce depression-like behaviors in mice. In addition, antidepressants presented not only antidepressant effects, but also antibacterial effects in those animals. Therefore, this study firstly investigated on the changes of gut microbiota in depressed patients under effective antidepressant treatment.Methods: We recruited 30 patients with drug-naive first-episode MDD (Patients group) and 30 healthy controls (Control group), and collected their stool samples to complete 16S rRNA sequencing. Next, Patients group received 20 mg/d of escitalopram. After the symptoms improved, the feces of Patients group were collected and marked as Follow-up group to complete sequencing for the second time. We then investigated into the differences of gut microbiota between patients (Patients and Follow-up groups) and controls (Control group), the characteristics of gut microbiota under treatment, and the potential differences in metabolic functions. Results: A significant difference in gut microbiota abundance was found after escitalopram treatment. The Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio significantly decreased in the Follow-up group. After treatment, the species diversity of gut microbiota tended to be back to normal state in Follow-up group. The mainly difference of metabolic function were found as follows: Transport and catabolism, Nervous system, Glycan biosynthesis and metabolism.Conclusions: Under escitalopram treatment, the gut microbiota diversity of MDD patients tended to back to normal state. However, several structures and metabolic pathways in microbes remained differences between patients and controls, which might be related to the relapse of MDD.
Flagella by numbers: comparative genomic analysis of the supernumerary flagellar systems among the Enterobacterales
Authors: De Maayer Pieter , Pillay Talia , Coutinho Teresa A
Published: August 2020

Background: Flagellar motility is an efficient means of movement that allows bacteria to successfully colonize and compete with other microorganisms within their respective environments. The production and functioning of flagella is highly energy intensive and therefore flagellar motility is a tightly regulated process. Despite this, some bacteria have been observed to possess multiple flagellar systems which allow distinct forms of motility. Results: Comparative genomic analyses showed that, in addition to the previously identified primary peritrichous (flag-1) and secondary, lateral (flag-2) flagellar loci, three novel types of flagellar loci, varying in both gene content and gene order, are encoded on the genomes of members of the order Enterobacterales. The flag-3 and flag-4 loci encode predicted peritrichous flagellar systems while the flag-5 locus encodes a polar flagellum. In total, 798/4,028 (~20%) of the studied taxa incorporate dual flagellar systems, while nineteen taxa incorporate three distinct flagellar loci. Phylogenetic analyses indicate the complex evolutionary histories of the flagellar systems among the Enterobacterales. Conclusions: Supernumerary flagellar loci are relatively common features across a broad taxonomic spectrum in the order Enterobacterales. Here, we report the occurrence of five (flag-1 to flag-5) flagellar loci on the genomes of enterobacterial taxa, as well as the occurrence of three flagellar systems in select members of the Enterobacterales. Considering the energetic burden of maintaining and operating multiple flagellar systems, they are likely to play a role in the ecological success of members of this family and we postulate on their potential biological functions.
Comparison of IOL Power Calculated by Preoperative Biometry versus Intraoperative Wavefront Aberrometry in Thai Cataract Patients.
Authors: Khambhiphant Bharkbhum , Thanyaporn Sribenjapanon
Published: August 2020

Background: As people now are expecting more precise and predictable results from cataract surgery. We need to find agreement between the calculated intraocular lens (IOL) power from using the SRK/T based preoperative biometry and the intraoperative wavefront aberrometry (ORA®) in Thai cataract patients. Methods: Eyes that underwent cataract surgery with monofocal or multifocal IOL implantation were enrolled in this prospective study. All eye biometry was measured preoperatively and the ORA intraoperatively. The SRK/T suggested IOL from the preoperative biometry was chosen in all cases. The suggested power and the estimated refraction (EST) from both devices were collected. Bland Altman analysis was used to find the agreement between them. The predicted EST of implanted IOL from both devices were compared with the one-month postoperative SE. Results: The study comprised 97 eyes (79 patients). Of these, 38 eyes (39.2%) had the same suggested IOL power, 36 eyes (37.1%) were within ±0.5D, 20 eyes (20.6%) were within ±1.0D and 3 eyes were beyond ±1.0D. Bland-Altman analysis found the mean difference between IOL power calculated from both devices was 0.39 with LoA of -0.54 to 1.31. The correlation was 98.50% (95%CI 98%- 99.10%). In the same suggested IOL power group, the median difference of EST by preoperative biometry and ORA compared with one-month postoperative SE were -0.08 (95%CI: -0.08, 1.11), and -0.14 (95%CI: -0.88, 1.2), respectively. Conclusions:The ORA and preoperative biometry results were in concordance with each other. The result of preoperative biometry was more accurate than ORA in this study.
Lnc-RNA CASC15 promotes HCC progression via modulation of Six1 targeted by miR-2355-5p
Authors: Hong Han , Sui Chengjun , Qian Tao , Xu Xiaoyong , Zhu Xiang , Fei Qiang , Yang Jiamei , Xu Minhui
Published: August 2020

Background: Long-chain non-coding RNA (LncRNA) plays a key role in the biological processes of tumors. LncRNA CASC15 has been shown to be involved in the development of a variety of tumors. The study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of lncRNA CASC15 in the progression of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). Methods: qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression levels of CASC15, miR-2355-5p and Six1 mRNA in HCC tissues and cells. Six1 protein expression levels were detected by Western Blot. CCK-8 experiment, colony formation experiment, Edu staining and Transwell experiment analysis were used to analyze the effects of CASC15, miR-2355-5p and Six1 on cell proliferation, cell invasion and migration. The relationship between CASC15, miR-2355-5p and Six1 was analyzed using bioinformatics analysis and Luciferase. Result: CASC15 was raised in HCC tissues and HCC cells. Down-regulation of CASC15 inhibited the growth, migration, invasion and tumor growth of HCC cells. The expression level of miR-2355-5p was reduced in HCC tissues. In addition, miR-2355-5p inhibitor induced the growth, migration and invasion of HCC cells. MiR-2355-5p was predicted to be a downstream target of CASC15. The expression level of miR-2355-5p was negatively correlated with CASC15 in HCC tumor tissues. Six1 was predicted to be a downstream target of miR-30a-5p. In vitro and in vivo results showed that CASC15/miR-2355-5p can regulate Six1.Conclusion: LncCASC15 regulated the proliferation and invasion of Six1 by binding with miR-2355-5p in HCC, suggesting that CASC15 may be a potential target for HCC.
Therapeutic interventions in Australian primary care, youth mental health settings for young people with Borderline Personality Disorder or borderline traits
Authors: O’Dwyer Nikki , Rickwood Debra , Buckmaster Dean , Watsford Clare
Published: August 2020

Background This study aimed to investigate what therapeutic interventions were being applied by clinicians working with young people with a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder or borderline traits in Australian primary mental health care settings. Given the current lack of evidence-based guidelines for treatment with this client population, investigating what is being implemented is needed. The study also aimed to determine whether the interventions clinicians are using are effective in reducing distress and increasing functioning for these clients. Methods Participant data came from the national minimum data set for headspace youth mental health centers across Australia. Young people’s data were included in the study if the young person was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder or borderline traits during their first episode of care (N=701). Clinician data that indicated the type of intervention used at each client session and outcome measures routinely captured were analyzed to determine interventions used and outcomes achieved. Results Results demonstrated that CBT was the most frequently used modality of intervention followed by supportive counselling and IPT, but that most clients received a variety of intervention types. There were no or only weak relationships between changes in outcomes and the amount of any type of intervention that was provided. No significant relationship was found with the amount of CBT a client received and changes in symptoms or functioning, despite being the most commonly employed modality. Conclusions The study highlights the need for evidence-based treatment guidelines for early intervention in young people with borderline personality disorder traits.
Bioinformatics and Expression Analysis of Histone Modification Genes in Grapevine Predict Their Involvement in Seed Development, Powdery Mildew Resistance, and Hormonal Signaling
Authors: Wang Li , Ahmad Bilal , Liang Chen , Shi Xiaoxin , Sun Ruyi , Zhang Songlin , Du Guoqiang
Published: August 2020

Background

Histone modification genes (HMs) play potential roles in plant growth and development via influencing gene expression and chromatin structure. However, limited information is available about HMs genes in grapes ( Vitis vinifera L.).

Results

Here, we described detailed genome-wide identification of HMs gene families in grapevine. We identified 117 HMs genes in grapevine and classified these genes into 11 subfamilies based on conserved domains and phylogenetic relationships with Arabidopsis. We described the genes in terms of their chromosomal locations and exon-intron distribution. Further, we investigated the evolutionary history, gene ontology (GO) analysis, and syntenic relationships between grapes and Arabidopsis. According to results 21% HMs genes are the result of duplication (tandem and segmental) events and all the duplicated genes have negative mode of selection. GO analysis predicted the presence of HMs proteins in cytoplasm, nucleus, and intracellular organelles. According to seed development expression profiling, many HMs grapevine genes were differentially expressed in seeded and seedless cultivars, suggesting their roles in seed development. Moreover, we checked the response of HMs genes against powdery mildew infection at different time points. Results have suggested the involvement of some genes in disease resistance regulation mechanism. Furthermore, the expression profiles of HMs genes were analyzed in response to different plant hormones (Abscisic acid, Jasmonic acid, Salicylic acid, and Ethylene) at different time points. All of the genes showed differential expression against one or more hormones.

Conclusion

VvHMs genes might have potential roles in grapevine including seed development, disease resistance, and hormonal signaling pathways. Our study provides first detailed genome-wide identification and expression profiling of HMs genes in grapevine.