bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and validation of a novel prognosis prediction model in adrenocortical carcinoma by integrative bioinformatics analysis and statistics and machine learning
Authors: Yan Xin , Guo Zi-Xin , Yu Dong-Hu , Chen Chen , Liu Xiao-Ping , Yao Jie , Liu Tong-Zu , Li Sheng
Published: November 2020

Background: Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignancy with poor prognosis. Thus, we aimed to establish a gene signature to predict the prognosis for ACC. Methods: Firstly, “WGCNA” package was used to construct a co-expression network and screen key module. Secondly, survival associated genes were identified by performing survival analysis. Thirdly, regression models were constructed by using the Ridge, ELASTIC-NET, and LASSO methods. Time-dependent ROC analysis, Cox regression analysis, GSEA, DCA and nomogram were performed to validate the model. Fourthly, mutations and CNVs of genes in the model were explored. Finally, LDA, KNN, SVM, PPI network and meta-analysis were used screened and validated meaningful prognostic biomarkers.Results: Two key modules were selected and 93 survival associated genes were identified. Furthermore, 11 models were constructed and two models were further selected, which were validated in each dataset (training set, internal validation set, GSE19750, and GSE76021). Model 2 was further identified as the best model (training set: survival analysis: p < 0.0001; AUC: 0.92 at 1 year, 0.91 at 3 years and 0.95 at 5 years). In genes in the best model, MKI67 was altered most (12%). Six hub genes were further analyzed by constructing a PPI network and validated by meta-analysis. Conclusion: In summary, we constructed and validated a prognostic multi-gene model and six powerful prognostic biomarkers, which might be useful instruments for predicting the prognosis of ACC patients.
VOX Index– A New Parameter Using Ultrasound to Predict Time of Applying Noninvasive Ventilation
Authors: Wen Ruoxuan , Hu Xingshuo , Duan Zhimei , Fu Han , Gu Hongjun , Xie Lixin , Xie Fei
Published: November 2020

Background: Physicians have been utilizing respiratory status and arterial blood gases measurements of the patient for determining the need of noninvasive ventilation (NIV). There is actually no clear and accurate index to assess the appropriate time of using NIV. We hypothesized that diaphragmatic ultrasound in combination with arterial blood gases test can accurately predict when the patients require sequential NIV.Objective: To investigate the feasibility of using the new VOX (velocity oxygenation) index, combining the diaphragmatic ultrasound and oxygen pressure analyses, as a reliable assessment tool for sequential NIV in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Method: A prospective study including patients admitted to ICU of People’s Liberation Army General Hospital First Medical Center Respiratory Department between August 1st 2018 and March 31st 2020. Patients received either continuous low-flow oxygen therapy or sequential NIV based on the physician judgement. The diaphragm movement distance, contraction time, and velocity were recorded and the E-T (excursion-time) index, VOX index, and arterial blood gases were compared. Result: The velocity of the diaphragmatic contraction (VD) was higher (3.29 vs. 1.89, P< 0.001) and P/F ratio was lower (161 vs. 264, P< 0.001) in patients receiving NIV. In predicting the need of utilizing NIV, VOX index showed the largest area under curve of ROC (AUC= 0.97) which was significantly greater than the AUC of VD and P/F ratio.Conclusion: VOX index serves as an accurate indicator of predicting the time of using NIV for ICU patients. It is recommended to switch from invasive ventilation to NIV when VOX< 109.89.
Myxoid liposarcoma with metastasis to the pancreas: a rare case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wang Ankang , Cong Peng , He Zhenxing , Qu Yueyu , Hu Tao , Cai Yu , Sun Bo , Chen Hao , Fu Wenguang , Peng Yong
Published: November 2020

BackgroundMetastasis of the pancreas to myxoid liposarcoma is very rare.Case presentationWe report a 43-year-old woman who underwent radical surgery for myxoid liposarcoma (MLPS) of the sigmoid colon 9 years earlier and for liposarcoma of the neck 7 years earlier. The lesion later metastasized to the pancreas, and we performed pancreaticoduodenectomy, which was pathologically confirmed as myxoid liposarcoma. Unfortunately, the patient died a year later from unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding.ConclusionsMyxoid liposarcoma is a very rare malignancy that carries a risk of invasion to the pancreas, and complete surgical resection is the best chance for clinical treatment.
Prognostic value of calculated tumor volume (cTV) in T4 or N3 advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Kim Ji-Hyun , Jun Kyonghwa , Chin Hyung-Min
Published: November 2020

Background: To evaluate the prognostic value of tumor volume in gastric cancer, we assess calculated tumor volume (cTV) based on pathologic reviews and investigate its correlation with long-term outcome of patients who underwent curative gastrectomy.Methods: In total, 574 gastric cancer patients who underwent curative gastrectomy in a single institution between January 2012 and December 2015 were enrolled and divided into subgroups (cTV group) according to cTV using pathologic tumor size and depth. The cutoff values of calculated cTV for subgroups were designated as 0-160.0 for the cTV1 group, 160.1-468.0 for the cTV2 group, and ≥ 468.1 for the cTV3 group.Results: Among enrolled patients, 403 (70.2%) were in the cTV1 group, 116 (20.2%) were in the cTV2 group, and 55 (9.6%) were in the cTV3 group. The 5-year overall survival rate of V groups were significantly different: 94.4% in cTV1, 86.2% in cTV2, and 69.3% in cTV3. In the univariate analysis, the cTV groups were associated with poor overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) with age, tumor location, histologic type, Lauren classification, T stage, and N stage. In the multivariate analysis, the cTV group was an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR 2.50, P=0.049) and DFS (HR 2.25, P=0.044). In the subgroup analysis, there was a significant difference according to the cTV group in both OS and DFS in T4 and N3 gastric cancers. Conclusions: Tumor volume plays an additive role in predicting survival in patients with gastric cancer. Moreover, the calculated tumor volume is significant parameter associated with poor prognosis in T4 and N3 advanced gastric cancer regardless of TNM stage.
The Role of Social Norms in Institutional Delivery: Findings from A Survey in Makwanpur, Nepal
Authors: Paul Alicia M. , Rimal Rajiv N. , Nepal Shraddha , Lohani Jeevan
Published: November 2020

Background: Nepal has a maternal mortality ratio of 186 per 100,000 live births, the second highest in South Asia. Institutional delivery, or giving birth in a medical facility with a skilled birth attendant, can prevent up to 16-33% of maternal deaths. Despite recent progress, Nepal’s institutional delivery rate is only 54%. As maternal mortality remains high and institutional delivery low, a transition from a biomedical to a psychosocial approach is needed, through which normative beliefs may be an entry point. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between descriptive norms and institutional delivery among mothers in Makwanpur, Nepal. Methods: This study uses baseline data from the Rejoice Architecture Project, a quasi-experimental study conducted in the Makwanpur District in Nepal in 2020. Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) recruited 356 women from catchment areas of six health facilities across three Palikas (equivalent to municipalities) and administered oral surveys. Participants were eligible if they were 18 years or older, had a child younger than 2 years, and lived within the catchment area of a study site. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between descriptive norms and institutional delivery, controlling for antenatal care (ANC) visits, demographics, and interpersonal communication (IPC) with husband.Results: Approximately 30% of participants perceived most women in their community gave birth at home compared to medical institutions and nearly 65% gave birth in an institution during their last delivery. Logistic regressions showed an association between descriptive norms and institutional delivery after controlling for external factors such that on average, women who perceived institutional delivery to be most common had 3.18 greater odds of giving birth in an institution. Conclusions: Findings from this study support the notion that social norms relate to actual birthing behavior, specifically in the context of institutional delivery. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature relating to institutional delivery and offer insights for a potential norms-based approach for increasing rates of institutional delivery and reducing maternal mortality in developing countries.
Comparison of hamstring and quadriceps strength after anatomical versus non-anatomical anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Jiang Hai , Zhang Lei , Zhang Rui-Ying , Zheng Qiu-Jian , Li Meng-Yuan
Published: November 2020

Background

Strength recovery of injured knee is an important parameter for patients who want to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Comparison of muscle strength between anatomical and non-anatomical ACLR has not been reported.
Purpose

To evaluate the hamstring and quadriceps strength and clinical outcomes after anatomical and non-anatomical single-bundle ACLR.
Methods

Patients received unilateral primary single-bundle hamstring ACLR between January 2017 to January 2018 were recruited in this study. Patients were divided into anatomical reconstruction group (AR group) and non-anatomical reconstruction group (NAR group) according to femoral tunnel aperture position. The hamstring and quadriceps isokinetic strength including peak extension torque, peak flexion torque and H/Q ratio were measured at an angular velocity of 180°/s and 60°/s using an isokinetic dynamometer. The isometric extension and flexion torques were also measured. Hamstring and quadriceps strength were measured preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Knee stability including Lachman test, pivot-shift test, and KT-1000 measurement and subjective knee function including International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm scores were evaluated during the follow-up.
Results

Seventy-two patients with an average follow-up of 30.4 months (range, 24–35 months) were included in this study. Thirty-three were in AR group and 39 in NAR group. The peak knee flexion torque was significant higher in AR group at 180°/s and 60°/s (P < 0.05 for both velocity) at 6 months postoperatively and showed no difference between the two groups at 12 months postoperatively. The isometric knee extension torque was significant higher in AR group at 6 months postoperatively (P < 0.05) and showed no difference between the two groups at 12 months postoperatively. No significant differences between AR group and NAR group were found regarding knee stability and subjective knee function evaluations at follow-up.
Conclusion

Compared with non-anatomical ACLR, anatomical ACLR showed a better recovery of hamstring and quadriceps strength at 6 months postoperatively. However, the discrepancy on hamstring and quadriceps strength between the two techniques vanished at 1 year postoperatively.
A novel method to establish the rabbit model of knee Osteoarthritis: Intra-articular Injection of SDF-1 induces OA
Authors: LI CANZHANG , HE YINHONG , LI YANLIN , WANG GUOLIANG , LIU DEJIAN , CAI GUOFENG , HE CHUAN
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAnimal model of Knee Osteoarthritis (OA) is the primary testing methodology for studies on pathogenic mechanisms and therapies of human OA disease. Recent major modeling methods are divided into artificially induced and spontaneous. However, these methods have some disadvantages of slow progression, high cost and no correlation with the pathogenesis of OA.MethodsOur studies attempted to find a rapid, easy, and consistent with the natural pathological process of OA modeling method by intra-articular injection of SDF-1 (stromal cell-derived factor 1, a chemokine naturally occurring during the pathological process of human OA) in the rabbit knee. After induction we collected cartilage specimens from the medial femoral condyle to undergo macroscopic, histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical evaluations. Meanwhile, compared with Hulth surgical method to evaluate its efficacy.ResultsMacroscopic observation and Mankin’s score of histological staining exhibited typical features of middle stage OA cartilage in SDF-1 injected groups. Immunohistochemically, the positive expression of IL-1 (interleukin-1) and TNF-α(tumor necrosis factor α)was earlier and higher in high dose SDF-1 group than surgical group. The levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in synovial fluid and in chondrocytes significantly increased, and type II collagen (COLⅡ) and aggrecan (ACAN) expressions decreased in SDF-1 injected group following the extension of time and increase of SDF-1 concentration.ConclusionsOur data indicated intra-articular injection of SDF-1 (40ug/kg, three times for 12weeks) can induce rabbit knee OA model successfully, more rapidly and easily than traditional surgical modeling. The study provides a further option for the establishment of knee OA animal model.
Extrachromosomal Circular DNAs are Common and Functional in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Zhenguo , Ji Na , Zhao Renchang , Liang Jinghui , Jiang Jin , Tian Hui
Published: November 2020

BackgroundEsophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs), especially the more-spread smaller type, were rarely studied before. Recently, the distribution of eccDNAs was reported to be distinguished in different tumor cell lineage or different condition of lung cancer. However, there was no exploration of eccDNA distribution and function in ESCC. MethodsThe eccDNAs from 3 surgical matched ESCC tissues were extracted and amplified after removing linear DNA / mitochondrial circular DNA and rolling circle amplification. High-throughput eccDNA sequencing and subsequent bioinformatics analysis was performed to study the distribution pattern and the level of eccDNAs in these matched tissues. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway analysis based on the genes associated with the eccDNAs at differential level were performed. 5 up-regulated and 5 down-regulated candidate eccDNAs were selected to be validated by routine PCR, TOPO-TA Cloning and Sanger sequencing. The nucleotides flanking eccDNA junctions were analyzed to explore the mechanism of eccDNA formation.Results184557 eccDNAs were identified. The overall length distribution was from 33bp to 968842bp, with the peak at ~360bp. They were originated mainly from 5’-untranslated regions, 3’-untranslated region, and rarely from exons, introns, LINE or Alu repeat region. The distribution patterns of the eccDNAs, such as chromosome distribution, length distribution and genomic annotation, were similar between ESCC and matched normal epithelium. Nevertheless, 16031 eccDNAs were found to be at differential level between ESCC and matched normal epithelium, including 10126 up-regulated eccDNAs and 5905 down-regulated eccDNAs. GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis showed enriched pathways in cancer, MAPK pathway, GTPase related activity and cytoskeleton function et al. PCR, TOPO-TA Cloning and Sanger sequencing validated the junctional sites of 5 up-regulated candidate eccDNAs and 4 other unexpected eccDNAs. Repeat nucleotide pattern between the position flanking the start site and that flanking the end site was detected.ConclusionThis study firstly demonstrated genome-wide presence of eccDNAs, explored the eccDNAs at differential level and revealed potential mechanism of eccDNAs in ESCC, thus suggesting potential clinical utility in ESCC and increasing our understanding about genome plasticity.
CircFAM114A2 Inhibits Bladder Cancer Proliferation and Promotes Cisplatin Sensitivity via the miR-222-3p/P27 and miR-146a-5p/P21 Cascades
Authors: Lu Jiancheng , Zhou Zijian , Wang Jingzi , Yang Xiao , Yu Hao , Han Jie , Feng Dexiang , Yuan Baorui , Wu Qikai , Li Pengchao , Lu Qiang , Yang Haiwei
Published: November 2020

Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that have the structure of a covalently closed loop. Increasing data has proved that circRNA can influence the development and progression of tumors. CircFAM114A2 is generated from several exons of FAM114A2. However, the function and mechanisms of circFAM114A2 in bladder cancer (BCa) remain unclear. Methods: Here, to elucidate the potential roles of circFAM114A2 in BCa, we conducted RNA-sequencing on 5 pairs of BCa samples and screened for circRNAs. CircRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) and mRNAs, as well as levels of P27 and P21, in human cells and tissues were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. CircRNA-miRNA interactions and miRNA-downstream mRNAs interactions were investigated by RNA pull-down assay and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) or luciferase reporter assays, respectively. Then, the function of circFAM114A2 in BCa was explored using cell proliferation, cell cycle and tumorigenesis assays in nude mice. Finally, the function of circFAM114A2 in cisplatin chemo-sensitivity in BCa was detected by IC50 and tumor formation of xenograft in cisplatin-treated nude mice. Results: We discovered that circFAM114A2 levels were decreased in BCa cell lines and tissues. According to follow-up data, BCa patients with higher circFAM114A2 expression had better survival. Importantly, the levels of circFAM114A2 were associated with the histological grade of BCa. Overexpression of circFAM114A2 inhibited cell proliferation and increased sensitivity to cisplatin chemotherapy. Mechanistically, circFAM114A2 directly sponged miR-222-3p/miR-146a-5p and subsequently influenced the expression of the downstream target genes P27/P21, which, in turn, inhibited progression of BCa. Conclusion: In conclusion, circFAM114A2 acted as a tumor suppressor through a novel circFAM114A2/miR-222-3p/P27 and circFAM114A2/miR-146a-5p/P21 pathway. CircFAM1142 has therefore great potential as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for BCa.
Thyroid Function Test (TSH, T3, T4) and Associated Factors in Early Gestation Among Pregnant Women Attending ANC Clinic in Nekemte Referral Hospital Western Oromia, Ethiopia.
Authors: Hirpa Regea Dabsu , Heyi Worku Dechassa , Roro Elias Merdassa
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Thyroid function testing in pregnancy is an area of concern for pregnant women, doctors and laboratories. Some women are known to have thyroid disease before pregnancy and require monitoring to ensure no harm comes to them or their baby. Thyroid disorders can have adverse reproductive and pregnancy implications. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess blood level of thyroid function test during early gestation and assess associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinic in Nekemte Referral Hospital.Methods: Facility-based Cross-sectional study design was deployed to collect information from 300 Pregnant women (<20 gestation weeks) attending antenatal clinic from March to May, 2017. Interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used to obtain information and blood samples were collected from pregnant women for estimation of thyroid function test after getting written consent. Data was entered to Epi info version 3.5.3, cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 24 and Multivariable analysis were used to examine the association between dependent and independent variables. Odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Significance was declared at P-value 0.05.Result: A total of 300 pregnant women were interviewed and blood sample collected from them for thyroid function test with a response rate of 90.1%. Among the study subjects 14(4.7%) have Subclinical Hypothyroidism (SCH). Husband occupation, presence of Radio in the household, presence of television in their house and treating drinking water at household level were among factors associated with development of Hypothyroidism.Conclusion and Recommendation: In this study, Subclinical Hypothyroidism (SCH) among pregnant women in early gestation is significant 14(4.7%) above the expected 2.5% of American thyroid association cut point. Husband occupation, Presence of media for information and treatment of drinking water were the associated factors. So, health workers should always update pregnant women on importance of consuming proper utilization of iodized salt. Health workers shall also teach pregnant women on personal and environmental hygiene.
miR-720 Regulates Insulin Secretion by Targeting Rab35
Authors: Lu Chunting , Wang Dan , Feng Yunlu , Feng Lie , Li Zejian
Published: November 2020

Background: miRNAs pose a good prospect in the diagnosis and treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). This study aimed to investigate whether miR-720 targets Rab35 to regulate insulin secretion in MIN6 cells and its molecular mechanism, and the clinical value of miR-720 as a specific biomarker of T2D. Methods: Fifty-five samples of new diagnosis T2D patients and normal control were collected. Levels of miR-720, fasting blood glucose, insulin and other indicators of glucose and lipid metabolism were determined. We increased and decreased miR-720 expression using miR-720 mimic and inhibitor to identify the effect of miR-720 on insulin secretion in MIN6 cells, respectively. Then we used miR-720 mimic, miR-720 inhibitor and dual luciferase reporter gene assays to prove miR-720 regulate insulin secretion by targeting Rab35 in MIN6 cells. In addition, we overexpressed and silenced of Rab35 gene to detect the expression of PI3K, Akt and mTOR in MIN6 cells by RT-PCR and western blot. Results: Circulating miR-720 was significantly higher in T2D group than control group, and miR-270 was positive correlated with fasting blood glucose, while negatively correlated with insulin. Overexpression of miR-720 inhibited insulin secretion and miR-720 downregulation promoted insulin secretion. miR-720 regulated insulin secretion by targeting Rab35 in MIN6 cells. Compared with the control group, the expression of PI3K, Akt and mTOR was significantly decreased by overexpression of Rab35 gene, while silencing Rab35 gene could induce the expression of PI3K, Akt and mTOR. Conclusions: We conclude that miR-720 may as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of T2D. Increase of miR-720 reduced Rab35 expression then activate PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway, thus inhibiting insulin secretion.
Effects of Early Neurological Deterioration in Acute Ischemic Stroke on Multiple Dimensions of Functional Outcomes using Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Qu Jian-Feng , Zhong Huo-Hua , Liang Wen-Cong , Chen Yang-Kun , Liu Yong-lin , Wang Shi-fang
Published: November 2020

Background: Early neurological deterioration (END) is common in acute ischemic stroke (AIS), but its effect on functional outcomes is not well understood. Here, we explored the effects of END on multiple dimensions of functional outcomes.Methods: 256 patients with AIS were analyzed. All patients were followed up for 1 year. We used the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) to assess body function impairment, the Lawton activities of daily living scale to assess activity limitations, and the reintegration to normal living index (RNLI) to assess participation restrictions. Brain MRI was performed to identify acute infarcts and preexisting abnormalities. To reduce the effects of a lack of randomization, we conducted a propensity score analysis. Results: Among 256 patients with AIS, 61(23.8%) patients had END. Before matching, patients with END had higher levels of small artery-type stroke, higher NIHSS scores on arrival, higher systolic blood pressure on admission, and larger infarct volumes. After matching, there were no significant differences between the two groups in any clinical or neuroimaging variables, except for stroke subtype and cortical region infarct. Logistic regression analysis revealed that END was a significant predictor of poor mRS (odds ratio [OR], 3.829; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.367–10.723, p = 0.011) and poor RNLI (OR, 2.777; 95% CI, 1.133–6.806, p = 0.026) scores after adjusting for confounding factors.Conclusions: END is relatively common in AIS. END might be a significant predictor of poor functional outcomes, including body function impairment and reduced social participation.
Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells Increase Chi3l1 Secretion in exosome to Activate Myh9 and Promote Proliferation through Connexin47 Connected to Astrocytes
Authors: Jiang Lu , Zhang Xiaoyan , Xu Dan , Zhang Wenjin , Peng GuoGuang , Tang Yong , Peng Yan
Published: November 2020

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases, caused by the loss of neurons or myelin sheath, are some of the most important neurological diseases that threaten the health of the elderly. In the CNS, oligodendrocytes (OLs) are the only cells that can form myelin. Astrocytes (ASTs) play a generally beneficial role in remyelination, including the proliferation and differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) to OLs. However, the specific downstream mechanism is unclear.Methods: This study investigated the proliferation of OPCs in OPCs mono-culture, OPCs culture with ASTs supernatant, and ASTs-OPCs co-culture. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis were used to analyze the differentially expressed genes after transcriptome sequencing of these OPCs. Electron microscope, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), Fluorescence tracing of exosomes and Western blot were used to evaluate the effects of exsomes. Pull-down, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and mass spectrometry analys were conducted to find the downstream signal proliferation which is transmitted information into OPCs.Reasults: Direct contact co-culture of ASTs and OPCs promotes the proliferation of OPCs. After Cx47 siRNA interference under ASTs-OPCs co-culture, Chi3l1 secretion in exosome reveals associated decrease, and OPCs proliferation decreased. The cell proliferation induced by Chi3l1 was inhibited after siRNA interfered with Myh9, and the expression of cyclin D1 was also decreased.Conclusions: These results suggest that ASTs transmit information to OPCs by increasing gap junction channel Cx47, thereby promoting the secretion of Chi3l1 in exosome of OPCs. The secretory form of Chi3l1 in exosome might be easier to enter the target cell than in extracellular supernatant, which is beneficial to the activation of Myh9 to promote OPCs proliferation. This may be a potential target for drugs rescuing neurodegeneration diseases related to remyelination.
A Novel Process to Recruit Community Partners for a Hybrid Implementation-Effectiveness Study
Authors: Leone Lucia A. , Kasprzak Christina , Lally Anne , Haynes-Maslow Lindsey , Vermont Leah N. , Horrigan-Maurer Caroline , Tumiel-Berhalter Laurene , Ammerman Alice , Raja Samina
Published: November 2020

BackgroundCreating strong partnerships with community organizations is essential to testing implementation of evidence-based interventions. Given the time and investment needed to build relationships, partners are often chosen based on convenience, rather than capacity or diversity. Streamlined processes are needed to identify qualified, diverse, and invested partners to conduct community-based implementation research. Currently there is a gap in the literature on effective and efficient methods for recruiting implementation partners. The goal of this paper is to fill that gap by describing a novel process for identifying a diverse group of community organizations to participate in implementation research.MethodsWe used a community-guided Request for Partners (RFP) approach to recruit implementation partners to participate in a cluster-randomized hybrid implementation-effectiveness study of the Veggie Van mobile produce market model. The multi-state RFP process included formative work to inform RFP development, creation of an outside selection committee, an intent-to-apply round, a full application round, and an in-person training and selection process. Chosen implementation partners receive a toolkit, training, technical assistance and funding to offset the costs of implementing the Veggie Van model and assisting with research. Data was collected to characterize applicant size, location and experience; pre-post surveys were conducted to understand the utility of the in-person training.ResultsWe received 59 intent-to-apply submissions, of which we invited 28 organizations to complete full applications: 17 submitted applications and 12 finalists were invited to the in-person training and selection process. The RFP process took approximately eight months to recruit nine organizations and 32 community sites across five states with a range of size and experience. The process increased understanding of the intervention and implementation partner responsibilities; 63.6% of finalists reported being very to extremely familiar with the Veggie Van model post-training compared to 28.6% pre-training. Only one finalist dropped out (due to significant organizational change).ConclusionsAn RFP process is familiar to even small community organizations that compete for grant funding, but may not have prior research experience. This RFP process streamlined partner recruitment timelines, increased partner diversity and cultivated community among mobile market organizations. It may also improve research transparency, study completion and intervention fidelity.
Sentiment Analysis on UAV-aided Product Comments Based on Machine Learning: From Sentence to Document Level
Authors: CAO JINGYANG , Yin Shirong , Zhang Guoxu
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a novel approach to analyze the sentiment of the product comments from sentence to document level and apply to the customers sentiment analysis on UAV-aided product comments for hotel management. In order to realize the effiffifficient sentiment analysis, a cascaded sentence-to-document sentiment classifification method is investigated. Initially, a supervised machine learning method is applied to explore the sentiment polarity of the sentence (SPS). Afterward, the contribution of the sentence to document (CSD) is calculated by using various statistical algorithms. Lastly, the sentiment polarity of the document (SPD) is determined by the SPS as well as its contribution. Comparative experiments have been established on the basis of hotel online comments, and the outcomes indicate that the proposed method not only raises the effiffifficiency in attaining a more accurate result but also assists immensely in regards to the B5G wireless communication supported by the UAV. The fifindings provide a new perspective that sentence position and its sentiment similarity with document (sentiment condition) dramatically disclose the relationship between sentence and document.
Integrating a Genome-Wide Association Study With Transcriptome Analyses to Identify Candidate Genes and Pathways for Feed Conversion Ratio in Yorkshire Pigs
Authors: miao yuanxin , mei quanshun , fu chuanke , liao mingxing , Li xinyun , zhao shuhong , Xiang Tao
Published: November 2020

Background: Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is an important productive trait that largely affects profits in pig industry. Elucidating the genetic mechanisms underpinning the FCR potentially promote the efficiencies of improving FCR through artificial selection. In this study, we integrated a genome-wide association study (GWAS) with transcriptome analyses in different tissues in Yorkshire pigs (YY), aimed at identifying key genes and signaling pathways significantly associated with FCR.Results: A total of 61 significant single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) were detected by GWAS in YY. All of these SNPs are located on porcine chromosome (SSC) 5 and the covered region was considered as a quantitative trait locus (QTL) region for FCR. Some genes that distributed around these significant SNPs were considered as the candidates for regulating FCR, including TPH2, FAR2, IRAK3, YARS2, GRIP1, FRS2, CNOT2 and TRHDE. According to the transcriptome analyses in hypothalamus, TPH2 exhibits abilities of regulating the intestinal motility by a serotonergic synapse and an oxytocin signaling pathway. In addition, GRIP1 is involved in a glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling pathway, which regulates FCR through affecting the appetite in pigs. Moreover, GRIP1, FRS2, CNOT2, TRHDE regulates the metabolism in various tissues by a thyroid hormone signaling pathway.Conclusions: Synthesizes results from GWAS and transcriptome analyses, TPH2, GRIP1, FRS2, TRHDE, CNOT2 genes were considered as candidate genes for regulating FCR in Yorkshire pigs. These findings help to improve the understandings of the genetic mechanism of FCR and potentially optimize the design of breeding schemes.
Hu Qian Wan Decoction Promotes Tendon-bone Healing of the Rotator Cuff in Rats by Inducing the Release of Exosomes Containing Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonists
Authors: Huang Yao , Wang Lei , He Bing , Zhang Fu-cheng , Yuan Bin , Shu Hao , Sun Lu-ning
Published: November 2020

Background: Hu Qian Wan decoction (HQWD) is a traditional Chinese medicine used to treat many orthopedic diseases, including osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. This study aims to explore the mechanism by which HQWD promotes tendon-bone healing in the rotator cuff.Methods: Tendon-bone healing of the rotator cuff, serum exosome expression, and changes in interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) in exosomes were analyzed after intragastric administration of HQWD in the rotator cuff reconstruction model of rats. The effects of Hu Qian Wan (HQW) on exosomes, IL-1RA, and Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) secretion were verified in rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and macrophage cells, and the effects of HQW on inflammasomes were observed. Results: HQWD intragastric administration increased proteoglycan and collagen Ⅰ (Col Ⅰ) expression in the tendon-bone interface, improved the tendon-bone interface area, and augmented the maximum breaking load and stiffness of the rotator cuff. HQWD intragastric administration also increased rat exosome and IL-1RA expression in vivo. HQW promoted exosome and IL-1RA expression and suppressed the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes in rat BMSCs and macrophage cells in vitro. Conclusions: HQWD inhibited inflammasome-related inflammation by inducing exosome and IL-1RA secretion in rats, thus, promoting tendon-bone healing of the rotator cuff.
Investigation of the Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicines in Angiogenesis Through Network Pharmacology and Data Mining
Authors: Yun WingYan , Dan Wenchao , Liu Jinlei , Guo Xinyuan , Li Min , He Qingyong
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAlthough traditional Chinese medicine is safe for the clinical treatment of angiogenesis, the in vivo intervention mechanism is diverse, complex, and largely unknown. Therefore, we aimed to explore the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine and their mechanisms for the treatment of angiogenesis.MethodsData on angiogenesis-related targets were collected from the GeneCards, Therapeutic Target Database, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, DrugBank, and DisGeNET databases. These were matched to related molecular compounds and ingredients in the traditional Chinese medicine system pharmacology platform. The data were integrated; based on the condition of Degree >1 and relevant literature, a target-compound network as well as compound-medicine and target-compound-medicine networks were constructed using Cytoscape. Molecular docking was used to predict the predominant binding combination of core targets and components.ResultsWe obtained a total of 79 targets for angiogenesis, and 41 targets were matched to 3839 compounds. Then, 110 compounds were selected owing to their high correlation with angiogenesis. Fifty-five combinations in the network were obtained by molecular docking, among which PTGS2-Astragalin (-9.18 kcal/mol), KDR-Astragalin (-7.94 kcal/mol), PTGS2-quercetin (-7.41 kcal/mol), and PTGS2-myricetin (-7.21 kcal/mol) were the top combinations. These results indicated that the selected potential core compounds may have good binding activity with the core targets. Eighty new combinations were obtained from the network, and the top combinations based on affinity were KDR-beta-carotene (-10.13 kcal/mol), MMP9-beta-Sitosterol (-8.04 kcal/mol), MMP9-Astragalin (-7.82 kcal/mol), and MMP9-Diosgenin (-7.51 kcal/mol). The core targets included PTGS2, KDR, VEGFA, and MMP9. The essential components identified were astragalin, kaempferol, myricetin, quercetin, and β-sitosterol. The crucial Chinese medicines identified included Polygoni Cuspidati Rhizoma et Radix, Morus alba Root Bark, and Forsythia Fructus.ConclusionsBy systematically analysing the essential ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine and their targets, it is possible to determine their potential mechanism of action in the treatment of pathological angiogenesis. Our study provides a basis for further research and development of new therapeutics for angiogenesis.
Visceral leishmaniasis in an Ethiopian patient with COVID-19: a case report
Authors: Amogne Melaku Taye , Huluka Dawit Kebede , Tesfay Hiruy Araya , Mekonnen Nebiyu Getachew , Abule Hiluf Abate , Mekuria Asrat Hailu
Published: November 2020

Background Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) has dominated global health conversations within a short period of time. It can seem as if the hugely significant burden of infectious diseases, including visceral leishmaniasis, are no longer a public health issue. We discuss in this case the clinical and public health implications of COVID-19 and Leishmania donovani co-infection.Case presentation An 18 years old male patient from Northwest Ethiopia diagnosed with COVID-19 and concomitant visceral leishmaniasis that ended in a fatal outcome. The rK39 rapid diagnostic test was positive, and the Giemsa stained bone marrow smears and culture confirmed the leishmanial infection.Conclusion This young man’s case demonstrated that the diagnosis and management of visceral leishmaniasis can be challenging in times of this pandemic. It is of crucial importance that clinicians have a high index of suspicion for a combination of COVID-19 and visceral leishmaniasis in endemic areas.
The Effects of Materials Management Practices on Firm Performance in Ghana: Evidence from A Listed Company.
Authors: Essel Ronald Ebenezer
Published: November 2020

Background: Materials management practices has gained extensive prominence over the last few decades and continue to play a significant role in production and operations management.Objectives: The objective of this scientific inquiry is to empirically examine the effect of materials management practices on firm performance by exploring employee views within the Ghanaian context, focusing on Fan Milk Limited, a consumer good listed manufacturing firm in Ghana.Methods: A cross-sectional approach [research design] was espoused for the study, exploring quantitative research techniques for its analysis. The study was based on self-answering structured questionnaires completed by 240 respondents selected via stratified sampling. SPSS version 25.0 was utilised for data analysis. Statistical analyses include descriptive statistics, principal component analyses, exploratory factor analyses with varimax rotation, reliability and validity analyses, and multivariate regression analyses.Results: The study found significant positive relationships between all eight materials management practices constructs and firm performance. Findings revealed further that Economic Order Quantity construct (β=0.901, p=0.000) contributed most to firm performance whilst Ergonomics (β=0.105, p=0.002) contributed least to firm performance.Conclusion: Managerial recommendations via research findings established, should be taken critical for management of manufacturing firms when dealing with decisions influencing materials management and performance assessment by examining the possible feasibility of the eight materials management techniques exploited in this study as a relevant tool for initiating continuous performance improvement in Fan Milk Limited in particular and Ghana’s manufacturing industry in general.
Disparities between IgG4-related disease with and without kidney involvement: a case-control study based on 450 patients
Authors: Zeng Qiaozhu , Gao Jingyuan , Zhang Xinyu , Liu Aichun , Wang Zhenfan , Wang Ziqiao , Chi Xiying , Shi Qianyu , Wang Yi , Liu Yanying , Li Zhan-Guo
Published: November 2020

Background We aimed to compare the demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics between IgG4-related kidney disease (IgG4-RKD+) and extrarenal IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RKD-) in a large Chinese cohort, as well as describing the radiological and pathological features of IgG4-RKD+.Methods We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 450 IgG4-RD patients at Peking University People’s Hospital from January 2004 to January 2020.Results Among the 450 IgG4-RD patients, 66 were diagnosed with IgG4-RKD+. Compared with IgG4-RKD- patients, IgG4-RKD+ patients had older age at onset and at diagnosis (59 vs 54, P=0.007; 61 vs 56, P=0.002, respectively). Male to female ratio of IgG4-RKD+ patients is significantly higher (2.5:1 vs 1.2:1, P=0.015). In the IgG4-RKD+ group, the most commonly involved organs were salivary gland (54.6%), lymph nodes (47.0%) and pancreas (40.9%). More than three organs involved (OR=6.212), retroperitoneal fibrosis involvement (RPF) (OR=12.460) and low serum C3 level (OR=0.202) were risk factors for the kidney disease in IgG4-RD patients. It was found that renal function was impaired in more than 50% of IgG4-RKD+ patients. The most common imaging finding is multiple, often bilateral, hypodense lesions, followed by ureteric obstruction and hydronephrosis related to RPF, and thickening of the renal pelvic wall. Conclusions Involvement of three or more organs, retroperitoneal fibrosis and low serum C3 level were risk factors for the kidney disease in IgG4-RD patients. These findings indicate potential differences in pathogenesis of these two phenotypes.
Simultaneously stimulating both brain hemispheres by rTMS in patients with unilateral brain lesions decreases interhemispheric asymmetry
Authors: He Renhong , Zhong Yuhua , Zhang Jimin , Fan Jianzhong
Published: November 2020

Background: Interhemispheric asymmetry is common in brains with lesions and can be an adverse factor in the recovery of patients from neurological deficits. This study aimed to investigate the influence of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on EEG power in patients with unilateral brain lesions by simultaneously stimulating both brain hemispheres and to elucidate asymmetrical changes in neurophysiological activity induced by rTMS. Methods: Fourteen patients with unilateral brain lesions were treated with one session of 10 Hz rTMS over the vertex. Resting-state EEGs were recorded before and immediately after rTMS. The brain symmetry index (BSI), calculated from a fast Fourier transform, was used to quantify the power asymmetry in both hemispheres and paired channels over the whole frequency range and five frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma bands). Results: The results indicated that rTMS significantly reduced the BSI in patients with unilateral brain lesions over the entire frequency range (t=2.767, P=0.016). Among the five frequency bands, rTMS only induced a noticeable decrease in the BSI in the delta band (t=2.254, P=0.042). An analysis of different brain regions showed that significant changes in the BSI of the alpha band were found only in the posterior parietal lobe. EEG topographic mapping was employed to identify changes in cortical oscillations across brain regions, and demonstrated a decreased power of delta oscillations in the ipsilesional hemisphere and distinct cortical oscillations in the alpha band around the parietal-occipital lobe in the contralesional hemisphere. Conclusions: When both brain hemispheres are activated simultaneously, rTMS decreases interhemispheric asymmetry primarily through reducing the delta wave in the lesioned hemisphere.
A Digital Survey on the Acceptance and Affordability of COVID 19 Vaccine among the People of West Bengal, India- A Survey Based Study
Authors: Gautam Arunodaya , Dhara Bikram , Mukherjee Dattatreya , Mukhopadhyay Debraj , Roy Sayan , Ganguly Soumya Sarathi , Chowdhury Ankita Dutta , Goswami Shubham , Dey Swapnil , Basu Srishti , Banerjee Deboshmita , Chatterjee Soumi , Roy Ishita , Mitra Arup Kumar
Published: November 2020

Overview: Currently, multiple vaccines for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are in clinical trials. In Oct-Nov 2020, 1078 individuals in West Bengal surveyed to evaluate possible acceptance rates, affordability and factors affecting the acceptance of a vaccine for COVID-19.Result: 77.27 percent of respondents reported that they would be very or very likely to take a vaccine for COVID-19, 5.3 percent don’t want to take vaccine and 12.24 don’t know about their decision. In that 58 percent respondents want to take Indian Vaccine; 19 percent respondents want to take foreign vaccine. Other respondents can take any vaccine. The affordability, 40 percent respondents want a vaccine bellow 500 INR, 25 percent respondents want a vaccine of 500-1000 INR. 11 percent respondents want vaccine of over 1000 INR.Method of Study: The google form is prepared with the questions on acceptance and affordability of vaccines. The form is circulated digitally among the people and then we have collected the data in excel. Based on the result we have prepared our statistical graphs.Conclusion: Majority of Responders want a COVID 19 vaccine. Majority responders want Indian COVID19 Vaccine. Majority responders want a vaccine in a cost of below 500 INR.