bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated With Abstinence After a Recent Smoking Cessation Attempt Across 28 European Union Member States
Authors: Cheung Chung-mei Maggie , Vardavas Constantine I , Filippidis Filippos T
Published: September 2020

Background: There is a lack of information regarding factors associated with successful smoking cessation on a population and European Union (EU)-wide level. Our study seeks to explore individual and country-level factors associated with abstinence after a recent smoking cessation attempt across the EU.Methods: We obtained data from the March 2017 Special Eurobarometer 87.1 (n=27901). Sociodemographic, policy and country-level factors were assessed using logistic regression among smokers and ex-smokers who attempted to quit approximately 12 months before the survey date. We defined and examined the Cessation Ratio (ratio of recent quitters to those who did not succeed) across 28 EU Member States.Results: 14.9% (n=1018) of current smokers and 8.80% (n=454) of ex-smokers attempted to quit in approximately the last 12 months. Cessation Ratios in EU Member States ranged from 0.182 (95% CI 0.045 to 0.319) in Estonia to 1.06 (95% CI 0.262 to 1.86) in Sweden. There is a quadratic, U-shaped relationship between smoking prevalence and the Cessation Ratio in each EU Member State. Higher prevalence was associated with lower Cessation Ratios, until a prevalence of approximately 26.3%; thereafter higher prevalence was associated with higher Cessation Ratios. Respondents who reported financial difficulties were less likely to quit smoking (aOR 0.656; 95% CI 0.517-0.833). There was no association between likelihood of success with other sociodemographic factors or the Tobacco Control Scale treatment score. Conclusions: These findings highlight a need for exploring reasons behind the variation in likelihood of abstinence following a recent quit attempt, in order to design policies targeted at population groups or countries that need greater support.
WITHDRAWN: Impact of Traits and Quality of Life on Longevity Among Those Aged 95 to 108  
Authors: Kim Jong In , Choi Yeonja , Kim Gukbin
Published: September 2020

BackgroundThe crucial differences in longevity related to quality of life and specific traits in the oldest old need to be investigated from a socioecological perspective because their impacts may differ in the oldest-old adults. This entailed estimating the impacts of quality of life and personal traits on the longevity of the oldest old in South Korea from a socioecological perspective. MethodsThe data were obtained from interviews with 170 South Koreans aged 95 to 108 from June 2017 to February 2020. Specifically, we interviewed 130 residents aged 100 to 108 and 40 aged 95 to 99 across 36 provinces in South Korea. This study incorporated an analytical model to observe the effects that were distributed across individuals, societies, and countries from a socioecological perspective. The factor analyses of the interview responses revealed significant correlations and hierarchical models.ResultsSeven factors were identified as major to quality of life and traits, and five in particular, industriousness, physical labour, weight 60kg, friends, meat intake, affected their longevity. In addition, fewer feelings of depression or anxiety and higher life satisfaction and living standards also influenced the longevity. ConclusionsThe quality of life and traits of South Korea’s oldest old appear to have a decisive latent impact on longevity factors. We identified seven crucial determinants of longevity in the oldest old: industriousness, labour, weight, friends, and meat intake, fewer feelings of depression or anxiety, and higher life satisfaction. Thus, those who seek longevity might emulate these traits of the oldest old.
Comparison of efficacy and safety of second-line palliative chemotherapy with paclitaxel plus raltitrexed and paclitaxel alone in patients with metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma: a randomized phase 2 clinical trial
Authors: ZHAO XIAOYING , CHEN Zhiyu , ZHANG Xiaowei , ZHU Xiaodong , ZHANG Wen , QIU Lixin , WANG Chenchen , HUANG Mingzhu , ZHANG Zhe , LI Wenhua , YANG Lei , LI Jin , GUO Weijian
Published: September 2020

BackgroundPaclitaxel is a microtubule stabilizing agent, used as standard second line chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer. This study was designed to compare the clinical outcome of paclitaxel plus raltitrexed regimen as second line treatment in MGC patients.MethodsAn open, randomized, multi centers phase II clinical trial. 148 patients were randomly assigned and treated with either RP (raltitrexed 3 mg/m2 day1 and paclitaxel 135 mg/m2 day1, 3week) or P (paclitaxel 135 mg/m2 day1, 3week) as second-line palliative chemotherapy. The primary endpoint is PFS; secondary endpoint is ORR, OS and safety.ResultsProgression free survival has a tendency to be prolonged with RP versus P (2.7month vs. 1.7month, p = 0.148). Overall survival has also a tendency to be prolonged with RP versus P (10.2month vs. 6.1month, p = 0.140). Overall response rate was equal with RP versus P (6.8% vs.4.0%, p = 0.72). DCR in the RP and P group was 56.2% and 36.0% respectively. Grade 3 to 4 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 36.2% (RP) vs. 28.2% (P) of patients. Frequent grade 3 to 4 toxicities for RP vs. P were: neutropenia (11.0% vs. 4.0%), anemia (1.4% vs. 4.0%), thrombocytopenia (1.4% vs. 5.3%), and all grade peripheral neurotoxicity (12.3% vs. 17.3%). All grades found with elevated aminotransferase (27.4% vs. 14.1%). Subgroup analysis shows if the disease combined with ascites or peritoneal involved OS of RP regimen is longer (p = 0.05).ConclusionsSecond-line palliative chemotherapy with paclitaxel plus raltitrexed have tendency to prolong PFS and OS, especially some patients with ascites or peritoneal involved, which needs to be confirmed by larger sample studies.Trial registrationNCT02072317. Registered 26 February 2014
Pattern of Cortical Thinning in Logopenic Progressive Aphasia Patients in Thailand
Authors: Thanprasertsuk Sekh , Likitjaroen Yuttachai
Published: September 2020

Background: Logopenic progressive aphasia (LPA) is an uncommon neurodegenerative disorder primarily characterized by word-finding difficulties and sentence repetition impairment. Prominent cortical atrophy around left temporo-parietal junction (TPJ) is a classical imaging feature of LPA. This study investigated cortical thinning pattern in clinically diagnosed LPA patients using non-demented subjects as a control group. We also aimed to explore whether there was prominent thinning of other cortical area additional to the well-recognized left TPJ.Methods: Thicknesses of all cortical regions were measured from brain magnetic resonance images using an automated command on Freesurfer software. Cortical thickness of the two groups were compared by two methods: 1) using a general linear model (GLM) in SPSS software; and 2) using a voxel-by-voxel GLM, performed with Freesurfer’s QDEC interface. Results: Besides the well-recognized left TPJ, cortical regions that were significantly thinner in the LPA group by both comparison methods included left caudal middle frontal gyri (CMFG) (p=0.006 by SPSS, p=0.0003 by QDEC), left rostral middle frontal gyrus (p=0.001 by SPSS, p=0.0001 by QDEC), left parahippocampal gyrus (p=0.008 by SPSS, p=0.005 by QDEC) and right CMFG (p=0.005 by SPSS, p=0.0001 by QDEC).Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that thinning of middle frontal gyri may be an additional feature in clinically diagnosed LPA patients. Involvement of left parahippocampal gyrus may reflect the underlying neuropathology of Alzheimer’s disease in majority of the LPA patients.
Morphofunctional Cardiac Changes in Singleton and Twin Pregnancies
Authors: Umazume Takeshi , Yamada Takahiro , Furuta Itsuko , Iwano Hiroyuki , Morikawa Mamoru , Watari Hidemichi , Minakami Hisanori
Published: September 2020

Objectives To compare heart echocardiographic changes between women with singleton and twin pregnanciesMethods We enrolled pregnant and postpartum women for this longitudinal cohort study in a tertiary center from 2014 through 2016. We analyzed 166 and 83 prospectively collected longitudinal data on simultaneously determined echocardiography parameters and blood variables in 44 and 22 normotensive women with either singleton or twin pregnancies, respectively. We tested mixed effect models for echocardiographic parameters and cardiac biomarkers.Results The mean left atrial volume index and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level were significantly higher in women with twin pregnancies than in those with singleton pregnancies during the 3rd trimester and immediately postpartum (within 1 week after childbirth). The 2nd trimester inferior vena cava diameters were significantly smaller and the 3rd trimester creatinine levels were significantly higher in women with twin pregnancies than in those with singleton pregnancies. BNP was positively correlated with left atrial volume index (β=0.49, p<0.01) and with the ratio of early diastolic transmitral to mitral annular velocity (E/e') (β=0.41, p<0.01). BNP and N-terminal precursor protein BNP (NT-proBNP) fragments immediately postpartum were negatively correlated with the later E/e', at 1 month postpartum in women with singleton pregnancies (r=−0.33, p=0.02 and r=−0.36, p<0.01, respectively).Conclusions The intravascular cardiac load at postpartum within 1 week after childbirth was greater in women with twin pregnancies than in those with singleton pregnancies. BNP/NT-proBNP was significantly positively correlated with LA volume index and E/e', BNP may be secreted to reduce the volume and pressure overload on the myocardial wall by diuretic action and may have improved the diastolic functions 1 month after childbirth. Our results provide evidence to deepen the understanding of the pathophysiological hemodynamic changes after delivery.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Severe Postpartum Hemorrhage: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Chenning , Yu Fubing , Xu Yunzhe , Li Jinsheng , Guan Zhihong , Sun Manna , Liu Chenan , He Fang , Chen Dunjin
Published: September 2020

Background: Although maternal deaths are rare in developed regions, the morbidity associated with severe postpartum hemorrhage remains a major problem. To provide new insight into severe postpartum hemorrhage, we analyzed data of women giving birth in Guangzhou Medical Centre for Critical Pregnant Women, which receiveda large quantity of critically ill obstetric patients from other hospitals of Southern China. Methods: In this study, we conducted a retrospective cohort by using the criteria of severe maternal morbidities, which was defined by estimation of blood loss volume and use of blood transfusion≥4 units, to determine the prevalence, risk factors and short-term complications of severe postpartum hemorrhage. Results: Severe postpartum hemorrhage was observed in 532 mothers (1.56%) among the total population of 34 178 mothers. Placental related cause (55.83%) was the major identified cause of severe postpartum hemorrhage, while uterine atony without associated retention of placental tissues accounted for 38.91%. The risk factors for severe postpartum hemorrhage were maternal age<18 years, previous cesarean section, history of postpartum hemorrhage, conception through in vitro fertilization, pre-delivery anemia, stillbirth, prolonged labor, placenta previa, placental abruption, placenta accrete spectrum and macrosomia. The prevalence rates of admission to ICU, hysterectomy, acute renal failure and sepsis were significantly higher in women with severe postpartum hemorrhage. Conclusion:The results of this study suggested that severe postpartum hemorrhagecould be adopted as an indicator to assess the quality of obstetric care because of its severity and potential lethality. Extra vigilance during the antenatal and peripartum periods is needed to identify women who have risk factors and enable early intervention to prevent severe postpartum hemorrhage. It’s important to remember that we have to prepare for all mothers giving birth, as some get severe postpartum hemorrhagewithout any known risk factors.
Estimating the number of deaths due to COVID-19 in Lima and Peru during March and April 2020 using ARIMA time series and modeling
Authors: Villarreyes Eduardo , Luna Ana , Soriano Andres
Published: September 2020

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 virus which causes the COVID-19 disease is a large family of viruses that cause respiratory diseases and complications in human beings. Nowadays, the pandemic is studied by the rate of infection and mortality in different countries. Since there are discrepancies regarding the number of deaths due to the pandemic, our main goal is to estimate the number of deaths in Lima and Peru due to COVID-19. Methods: By using inference modeling techniques and statistical analysis in time series together with ARIMA-type predictions, it is possible to estimate the number of deaths caused by COVID-19. Our study took place in the city of Lima and Peru and our detailed analysis was carried out during March and April of 2020. Results: By comparing the death toll provided by the Ministry of Health (MINSA), we have obtained approximately a difference of 325.9% regarding the number of deaths due to COVID-19 in the city of Lima and a difference of 185.9% regarding the number of deaths in Peru. Conclusions: ARIMA time series modeling are a powerful statistical tool that predict and forecast data that are widely used in various fields of science, health, and economics. In this study, we have shown the discrepancy between the data reported by MINSA and the projection obtained in our ARIMA time series modeling. Therefore, we have a confidence level of 95% about the study that was carried out in March and April of 2020.
Feasibility of Evaluating the Histologic and Genetic Subtypes of WHO Grade II-IV Gliomas by Diffusion-Weighted Imaging
Authors: Liu Sirui , Zhang Yiwei , Kong Ziren , Jiang Chendan , Wang Yu , Zhao Dachun , You Hui , Ma Wenbin , Feng Feng
Published: September 2020

Background: To explore the feasibility of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) metrics in order to predict the histologic subtypes and genetic status (e.g., IDH, MGMT, and TERT) of glioma noninvasively.Methods: One hundred and eleven patients with pathologically confirmed WHO grade II-IV gliomas were recruited retrospectively. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were measured in solid parts of gliomas on co-registered T2-weighted images and were compared with each other in terms of WHO grading and genotypes using t tests. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to assess the diagnostic performances of ADC. Subsequently, multiple linear regression was used to find independent variables, which can affect ADC values.Results: The values of overall mean ADC (omADC) and normalized ADC (nADC) of glioblastoma and IDH wildtype gliomas were lower than lower grade gliomas and IDH mutated gliomas (P<0.05). nADC values showed better diagnostic performance than omADC in identifying tumor grade (AUC: 0.749 vs. 0.716) and IDH status (AUC: 0.836 vs. 0.777). ADC values had limited abilities in distinguishing TERT status (AUC=0.607 for nADC and 0.617 for omADC) and MGMT status (AUC=0.651 for nADC). Only tumor grade and IDH status were tightly associated with ADC values.Conclusion: DWI metrics can predict glioma grading and IDH mutation noninvasively, but has limited use in the detection of TERT mutation and MGMT methylation.
Hand hygiene compliance among caregivers of inpatients with multidrug-resistant organism infection in China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chang Wenyan , Chen Xiaobing , He Wenying , Lin Taoyu
Published: September 2020

Background

Caregivers are an important provider of daily living care for multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) inpatients in China, they are at risk for contracting and spreading MDRO from frequent interactions with patients. Improving the hand hygiene (HH) compliance of caregivers has important significance in reducing the incidence of infection. However, we have little information about HH compliance among caregivers of MDRO inpatients in most medical institutions. Therefore, we decide to examine HH compliance among caregivers of MDRO inpatients in China.
Methods

Using direct observations, we investigated HH compliance among caregivers of MDRO inpatients between March and August 2019 in a large university-affiliated hospital in China. Using the WHO’s Hand Hygiene Observation Tool, we surveyed a total of 440 HH opportunities.
Results

Out of the total participants, 16.2% were elderly. Overall HH compliance was 46.8%. The most frequent moment for HH was “after a touching patient” (69.2%) and the lowest compliance was “before clean/aseptic procedures” (25.6%). Compliance during “visiting” was highest (66.7%), with hands being less frequently washed during “resting” (29.0%).
Conclusions

Overall compliance with HH when caring for MDRO inpatients is less than optimal. Elderly caregivers should be valued by society and the public. These results may be used to identify issues and interventions to address HH practices and achieve a reduction in MDRO infections.
Epidemiology, species distribution, and outcome of nosocomial Candida spp. bloodstream infection in Shanghai — A retrospective of 11-year clinical analysis in a shanghai tertiary hospital
Authors: ZHENG Yan-Jun , XIE Ting , WU Lin , LIU Xiao-Ying , ZHU Ling , CHEN Ying , MAO En-Qiang , HAN Li-Zhong , CHEN Er-Zhen , YANG Zhi-Tao
Published: September 2020

Background:

Candida spp. are important opportunist pathogens causing bloodstream infections (BSIs). The present study aims to describe the current epidemiology of Candida BSI in a large Shanghai Tertiary-care Hospital from 2008 to 2018 and to identify the risk factors and the impact of antifungal therapy on clinical outcomes.
Methods:

From January 2008 to December 2018, all consecutive patients who developed Candida BSI at Ruijin Hospital were enrolled. Underlying diseases, clinical severity, species distribution, antifungal therapy, and its impact on the outcome were analyzed.
Results:

The incidence of nosocomial Candida BSI was 0.39 episodes/1000 hospitalized patients, and the overall 28-day mortality rate was 28.5%. Among the 393 cases of Candida BSI, 299 cases (76.1%) received antifungal therapy. 247 received early appropriate antifungal therapy (an appropriate drug with adequate dosage was started before the subsequent in vitro susceptibility results), and 52 received target antifungal therapy (appropriate target treatment started after susceptibility results, regardless of whether the inappropriate antifungal treatment has been initialed or not). The 28-day mortality rate was significantly lower in those who received early appropriate antifungal therapy or target antifungal therapy compared with those who did not receive antifungal therapy (25.5% and 23.1% vs. 39.4%,P = 0.012 and P = 0.046). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, age, chronic renal failure, mechanical ventilation, neutropenia were independent risk factors for the 28-day mortality rate, while antifungal therapy was a protective factor for short-term survival rate.
Conclusions:

The epidemiology of Candida BSI in Shanghai differed from that observed in Western countries. Antifungal therapy did influence the short-term survival, while there was no significant difference between the mortality for those who received early appropriate antifungal therapy and for those who received target antifungal therapy.
Cauda Equina Syndrome-Induced Acute Urinary Retention in Patients with Acute Lumbar Disc Herniation: Report of Two Clinical Cases.
Authors: Dinh Hoai Thi Phuong , Nguyen Hai Minh , Le Duyen Nha , Le Anh Thi Quy , Nguyen Minh Thanh , Nguyen Hung Khoa
Published: September 2020

Objective: to discuss two cases with CES-induced acute urinary retention, knowledge of which is essential for early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of neurological dysfunctions. Case presentation: Two patients were hospitalized with symptoms lower back pain with weakness and progressive loss of feeling of lower limbs accompanied by acute urinary retention, urinary system tests were within normal limits. Magnetic resonance imaging results in lumbar disc herniation causing spinal stenosis. Both patients underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) procedure and showed improvements in symptoms after surgery and re-examination.Conclusion: The diagnosis should be based on magnetic resonance imaging. Lumbar disc herniation is the most common cause of acute urinary retention from cauda equina compression. Laminectomy, with early decompression within 24 to 48 hours, reduces the risk of long-term neurological dysfunction and increases the chances of recovery for the patient.
Adductor Canal Block in the Outpatient Clinic for Pain Control Following Knee Surgery
Authors: rhatomy sholahuddin , rasyid faiz alam , setyawan riky
Published: September 2020

Background: The outcome of knee surgery is influenced by the surgery itself and the rehabilitation program. Post-operative pain management is the most important factor for a successful rehabilitation program. We hypothesized that an adductor canal block (ACB) in the outpatient clinic is safe, effective for pain relief, and decreases analgesic consumption.Methods: We included patients who underwent knee surgery. Patients were scheduled to an ACB on post-operative day (POD) 14 at the outpatient clinic with 0.1% ropivacaine. We evaluated pain with the use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) and analgesic consumption on PODs 5, 7, 9, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, and 29.Results: We enrolled 115 patients. The mean VAS pain scores before ACB on PODs 5, 7, and 9 were 7.4, 7.2, and 6.2, respectively. After the patients received the ACB on POD 14, the mean VAS pain score significantly decreased to 1.6, then gradually increased at PODs 17, 19, 21, and 23. After POD 23, the VAS pain score flattened. Patients’ mean analgesic (etoricoxib) consumption before receiving the ACB on PODs 5, 7, and 9 were 102 mg, 98 mg, and 98 mg, respectively. After receiving ACB, analgesic consumption significantly decreased (16 mg) on POD 15, then gradually increased on PODs 17, 19, and 21. After POD 21, analgesic consumption stabilized.Conclusions: Single-shot ACB in the outpatient clinic is safe and significantly decreases pain and analgesic consumption and may enhance rehabilitation programs.
Association Between Renal Function and Platelet Reactivity During Aspirin Therapy in Elderly Patients With Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Liang Wenyi , Zhang Peng , Liu Meilin
Published: September 2020

Background: Aspirin is the key treatment in the secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. High on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR) to aspirin has been reported to partially account for the enhanced risk of thrombotic events. In particular, HTPR has been described more frequently among elderly patients. The aim of this study was to identify the clinical and biological factors associated with HTPR in a real-life elderly population.Methods: In this retrospective study, elderly patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease on regular aspirin treatment were enrolled. Cardiovascular risk factors, routine biological parameters, comorbidities, and concomitant medications were recorded. The upper quartile of the platelet aggregation rate, determined by light transmission aggregometry with arachidonic acid, was defined as the HTPR group.Results: A total of 304 patients were included (mean age 77 ± 8 years, 76% men). Patients in the HTPR group were older than the patients in the non-HTPR group (mean age: 79 ± 7 vs. 76 ± 8 years, p = 0.008). Patients with moderately decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) had a higher frequency of HTPR than patients with slightly decreased eGFR or normal eGFR (35.8%, 22.5%, 12.2%, respectively, p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, an independent risk factor for HTPR was the eGFR (OR: 0.984, 95% CI: 0.980-0.988, p < 0.001).Conclusions: Advanced age and decreased eGFR are correlated with poor pharmacodynamic response to aspirin. Antiplatelet strategy in elderly patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease should be driven by an individualized approach, especially in patients with impaired renal function.
Effect of Dynamic Circuit Pressures Monitoring on the Lifespan of Extracorporeal Circuit and the Efficiency of Solute Removal During Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Li Peiyun , Zhang Ling , Lin Li , Tang Xin , Guan Mingjing , Wei Tiantian , Chen Lixin
Published: September 2020

Objective: To observe the effects of dynamic pressure monitoring on the lifespan of the extracorporeal circuit and the efficiency of solute removal during continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT).Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was performed at the West China Hospital of Sichuan University in the intensive care unit. Analyses of the downloaded pressure data recorded by CRRT machines and the solute removal efficiencies, calculated by 2*Ce/(Cpre+Cpost), where Ce, Cpre and Cpost are the concentrations of the effluent, pre-filter blood, and post-filter blood, respectively, were performed. Samples were collected at 0, 2, 6, 12, 24 h after the initiation of CRRT. We measured the concentrations of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and β2-microglobulin in the plasma and effluent.Results: Extracorporeal circuits characterized by moderate-severe (M-S) access outflow dysfunction (AOD) events, defined as access outflow pressure less than or equal to -200 mm Hg more than 5mins, had shorter lifespans with no anticoagulation (17.6±11.2 h vs. 35.1±17.1 h, P=0.001) or with regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) (40.3±22.2 h vs. 55.9±21.7 h, P=0.016). Moreover, Cox regression analysis revealed that the lack of moderate-severe AOD events, RCA, or continuous veno-venous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) independently prolonged the circuit lifespan. All tested solutes removal efficiencies started to decline at 12h. Furthermore, efficiencies of all solutes removal dropped obviously at 24h when TMP≥ 150mmHg.Conclusion: RCA and CVVHDF predicted a longer circuit lifespan. Moderate-severe AOD events were associated with a shorter circuit lifespan when RCA or no anticoagulation was used. Replacement of extracorporeal circuit might be considered if TMP≥ 150mmHg at 24h.
Mice With A Cleavage-Resistant N-Cadherin Exhibit Synapse Anomaly in the Hippocampus and Outperformance in Spatial Memory Tasks
Authors: Asada-Utsugi Megumi , Uemura Kengo , Kubota Masakazu , Noda Yasuha , Tashiro Yasutaka , Uemura Maiko T , Yamakado Hodaka , Urushitani Makoto , Takahashi Ryosuke , Hattori Satoko , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi , Ageta-Ishihara Natsumi , Kobayashi Katsunori , Kinoshita Makoto , Kinoshita Ayae
Published: September 2020

N-cadherin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule that stabilizes excitatory synapses, by connecting pre- and post-synaptic termini. Upon NMDA receptor (NMDAR) activation by glutamate, membrane-proximal domains of N-cadherin are cleaved serially by a-disintegrin-and-metalloprotease 10 (ADAM10) and then presenilin 1(PS1, catalytic subunit of the γ-secretase complex). To assess the physiological significance of the initial N-cadherin cleavage, we engineer the mouse genome to create a knock-in allele with tandem missense mutations in the mouse N-cadherin/Cadherin-2 gene (Cdh2 R714G, I715D, or GD) that confers resistance to proteolysis by ADAM10 (GD mice). GD mice showed a better performance in the radial maze test, with significantly less revisiting errors after intervals of 30 and 300 sec than WT and a tendency for enhanced freezing in fear conditioning. Interestingly, GD mice reveal higher complexity in the tufts of thorny excrescence in the CA3 region of the hippocampus. Fine morphometry with serial section transmission electron microscopy (ssTEM) and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction reveals significantly higher synaptic density, significantly smaller PSD area, and normal dendritic spine volume in GD mice. This knock-in mouse has provided in vivo evidence that ADAM10-mediated cleavage is a critical step in N-cadherin shedding and degradation and involved in the structure and function of glutamatergic synapses, which affect the memory function.
The Effects of Normal Aging, Subjective Cognitive Decline, Mild Cognitive Impairment, or Alzheimer's Disease on Visual Search
Authors: Xue Chaunwei , Tang Yi , Wang Changming , Yang Haibo , Li Liang
Published: September 2020

Background：To examine the progressively developed visual-search deficiency associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD).Methods: Healthy-younger adults, healthy-older adults (normal-aging control, NC), adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), or mild AD participated in this study. To determine whether 1 of 4 letters presented at 4 symmetrically-located positions differed from the other 3, when the 4 letters were masked by either other randomly positioned and oriented letters or random-pixel noise. Meanwhile, eye movements were trackedResults: In all the participants, with the stimulus-presentation time being longer, the visual-search performance improved, and both the eye interest-area first fixation duration (IFFD) and the interest-area-fixation count (IFC) increased. Particularly under the noise-masking condition, the AD group performed the worst at stimulus-presentation times between 300 and 900 ms. The aMCI group, but not the SCD group, performed worse than the NC group at the stimulus-presentation time of either 300 or 500 ms. The IFC was higher in all the patient groups than that in the NC group, and distinguishable between participants with AD and those with SCD or aMCI. Conclusions: The visual-search performance combined with eye-moment tracking under the noise-masking condition can be used for distinguishing AD from normal aging, SCD, and aMCI.
A Colorimetric Test for the Evaluation of the Insecticide Content of LLINs Used on Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea
Authors: Kaur Harparkash , Allan Elizabeth Louise , Eggelte Teunis A , Garcia Guillermo A , Monti Feliciano
Published: September 2020

BackgroundInsecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying of insecticides are used as the major vector control interventions in the fight against malaria. Measuring the actual amount of deposits of insecticides on bed nets and walls is essential for evaluating the quality and effectiveness of the intervention. A colorimetric “Test Kit” designed for use as a screening tool, able to detect the type II pyrethroids on fabrics and sprayed walls, was used for the first time to detect deltamethrin on long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) deployed on Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea.MethodsLLINs were analysed using the colorimetric Test Kit performed in situ, which leads to the formation of an orange-red solution whose depth of colour indicates the amount of type II pyrethroid on the net. The kit results were validated by measuring the amount of extracted insecticide using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with diode array detection (DAD).ResultsDeltamethrin concentration was determined for 130 LLINs by HPLC-DAD. The deltamethrin concentration of these nets exhibited a significant decrease with the age from 65 mg/m2 (<12 months of use) to 31 mg/m2 (>48 months; p<0.001). Overall, 18% of the nets being used in households had <15 mg/m2 of deltamethrin, thus falling into the failed category as assessed by the colorimetric Test Kit. This was supported by the bioassay determined bio-efficacy of the nets with ≥80% mortality following the World Health Organization (WHO) minimal effectiveness criteria. The Test Kit was field evaluated in situ and found to be rapid, accurate, and easy to use by people without laboratory training. The Test Kit was shown to have a reliable linear relationship between depth of colour produced and deltamethrin concentration (R2 = 0.9135).ConclusionResults of this study show that this colorimetric test was a reliable method to assess the insecticidal content of LLINs under operational conditions. The Test Kit provides immediate results and offers a rapid, inexpensive, field-friendly alternative to the complicated and costly methods as HPLC and WHO cone bioassays which also need specialist staff. Thus, enabling National Malaria Programs to gain access to effective and affordable monitoring tools for use in situ.
A botanical product containing cistanche and ginkgo extracts improves chronic fatigue syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Kan Juntao , Hu Chun , Chen Liang , Liu Siyu , Venzon Dawna , Murray Mary , Wang Chaojih , Yeh Ailing , Liu Bryan , Li Shuguang , Du Jun
Published: September 2020

BackgroundDietary therapy may be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a disorder characterized by extreme fatigue with no underlying medical condition. The aim of this study is to evaluate the protective effect of a botanical product containing cistanche (Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk) Wight) and ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.) extracts on adults with CFS in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.MethodsA total of 190 subjects with CFS were randomized to receive low dose, high dose of product or placebo (tablets) once daily for 60 days. Blood samples and questionnaires of Chalder fatigue, quality of life (QOL), and sexual life quality (SLQ) were collected at baseline and post-intervention.ResultsOur product significantly relieved the symptoms of CFS, among which impaired memory or concentration, muscle pain, unrefreshing sleep, and post-exertional malaise were significantly improved. The intervention of product significantly decreased both physical and mental fatigue scores of the Chalder fatigue questionnaire, and improved QOL and SLQ of the subjects. Levels of blood ammonia and lactic acid in the subjects of product group were significantly lower than those of placebo group. In addition, the change in lactic acid concentration was significantly associated with the effectiveness for CFS symptoms, and correlated to the change in total physical fatigue score of the Chalder fatigue questionnaire.ConclusionsOur botanical product relieves the CFS symptoms and improves the scores of Chalder fatigue, QOL and SLQ questionnaires. These findings suggest a nutritional supplementation approach with botanical extracts as an alternative strategy in mitigating CFS.Trial registrationThis trial has been registered on https://clinicaltrials.gov/ under the identification code: NCT02807649. Registered 21 June 2016 - Retrospectively registered.
miRNA-486-5p Promotes COPD Progression by Targeting HAT1 to Regulate the TLR4-Triggered Inflammatory Response of Alveolar Macrophages
Authors: Zhang Jie , Xu Zhongneng , Kong Lianhua , Gao Hong , Zhang Yueming , Zheng Yulong , Wan Yufeng
Published: September 2020

Background: The aim of this study is to investigate the key regulatory miRNA-486-5p and underlying molecular mechanisms in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) progression.Methods: Aberrant miRNA expression in smokers compared to non-smokers and COPD compared to normal was analyzed using microarray datasets and reverse-transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). ELISA assay was used to determine the secretion of inflammatory cytokines in cell supernatants. Inflammatory cytokine expression, including HAT1, TLR4, and miR-486-5p, was determined using qPCR or western blotting. Luciferase reporter assays and fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to confirm the target regulation between miR-486-6p and HAT1. Results: Our results showed that miR-486-5p was significantly up-regulated in the COPD and smoker groups compared to the control group based on bioinformatics analysis and qPCR validation of alveolar macrophages and peripheral monocytes. miR-218-5p expression significantly correlated with IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IFN-γ expression. Luciferase reporter assays confirmed that miR-486-5p directly targets HAT1, and cellular localization showed that miR-486-5p and HAT1 were highly expressed in the cytoplasm. miR-486-5p overexpression led to significant TLR4 up-regulation and significant HAT1 down-regulation. Inversely, miR-486-5p inhibition led to significant TLR4 down-regulation and significant HAT1 up-regulation. HAT1 knockdown using siRNA significantly increased TLR4, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IFN-γ expression. Conclusions: miR-486-5p was differentially expressed in alveolar macrophages of COPD patients. miR-486-5p overexpression might increase the TLR4-triggered inflammatory response in COPD patients by targeting HAT1.
Institutional Delivery Services Utilization and Associated Factors Among Mothers Who Gave Birth in The Last Year in Mandura District, North West Ethiopia, 2019.
Authors: Mitikie Kassahun Asres , Wassie Gizachew Tadesse , Beyene Melkamu Bedemo
Published: September 2020

Background: The risk of death from complications relating to pregnancy and childbirth for women’s lifetime is higher in developing countries. Improving maternal and child health through a well-organized institutional delivery service is central to achieve reduced maternal and child mortality. Despite the efforts that have been made to improve maternal health outcomes in Ethiopia, institutional delivery is still unacceptably low. This study was aimed to assess institutional delivery service utilization and associated factors in the study area. Methods: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to employ a total of 546 women. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with the outcome variable. Adjusted Odds ratios with 95% CI were computed to measure the strength of association and statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05.Results: The Prevalence of institutional delivery in the study area was 38% (34%-42%). Factors significantly associated with institutional delivery were ANC visit 1.80(1.12-2.91), knowledge on danger sign 3.60(2.25-5.76), urban residency 2.09(1.15-3.81), Parity 0.49(0.25-0.95) accessibility of health facility 4.60(2.01-10.89), husbands educational level: primary 2.50(1.27-4.91), secondary and above 2.36(1.24-4.48), mothers occupation: governmental employee 2.05(1.00-4.18), and Private employee 2.42 (1.09-5.35). Conclusions: The prevalence of institutional delivery in the District was low. Antenatal visits, residency, knowledge on pregnancy danger signs, parity, accessibility of health facilities, maternal occupation, and husband education were significantly associated with institutional delivery. Strengthen the community-based awareness creation program regarding the danger signs of pregnancy and benefits of institutional delivery through the health developmental army, health extension workers, and local health care service providers; empowering women to get a job access, advocating education in the community, and improving antenatal care utilization would be among important measures to improve institutional delivery utilization.
The Practice of Public Health Emergency Operations Center (EOC) The Operations of Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC)’s EOC
Authors: Ding Fan , Li Qun , Jin Lianmei
Published: September 2020

Objectives To Share the construction status and operation management experience of the EOC of China CDC. It is also to promote the construction of global emergency operation management system.Methods We searched the websites of WHO, USCDC and EU CDC for the EOC-related concepts. And through expert interviews and personal communication with experts, we collected relevant opinions and identify additional published literature, then described the current situation of construction of China CDC’s EOC. Results For EOC, different organizations / agencies have different definitions. In China, the EOC is a place where CDC organizes and conducts the related emergency response work. And it is also an important part of public health emergency system construction. The China CDC’s EOC had developed a series of incident action plan (IAP) and the standardized forms for each incident. The event-specific data, context-specific data and event management data are usually obtained by different system and channel. The China CDC’s EOC would improve the staff’s abilities through an ongoing series of training and exercises. Comparing with before, the efficiency of incident response has been greatly increased after the establishment of EOC.Conclusions The China CDC’s EOC is still growing and groping phase. It is necessary to continue theoretical learning and practice to continuously improve the capacity of the construction and operations of the EOC system. We need continued close collaboration and partnership with international organizations to enable more to be accomplished through leveraging individual institutional strengths. The standardize approach to respond to public health emergencies meet global standards needs.
Production of Biodiesel from Mixed Castor Seed and Microalgal Oils: Characterization and Optimization Studies
Authors: Lemma Dejene Beyene , Abagisa Mohammedsani Abdulkadir , Kebede Adisu Befekadu
Published: September 2020

In order to lower the high prices of individual feedstock, extend the life of a more limited feedstock and to improve the fuel properties of biodiesel it imperative to optimize process parameters for biodiesel derived from mixed feedstocks. Samples of castor seeds were collected from Jimma zone, southwest Ethiopia while sample of wet microalgal biomass was obtained from wastewater stabilization ponds using a 60µm filter screen. The castor seeds and algal biomass were sun-dried before further dried at 800C in an oven and ground to pastes. Oils were extracted from dried and milled castor seeds and micro-algae pastes with a Soxhlet apparatus using methanol. The extracted oil was purified and characterized before converted to biodiesel. A transesterification process designed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) experimental design was used to optimize the biodiesel production process parameters from mixed oil using alkaline catalyst. The Design Expert® 12 software was used to analysis experimental results. The effects of catalyst concentration, ethanol to mixed oil molar ratio and reaction temperature on the biodiesel yield were investigated using the experimental results. Accordingly, the optimum conditions for biodiesel production from mixed oil were a catalyst concentration of 1.23 % w.t of the oil, alcohol to mixed oil molar ratio of 5.94:1 (v/v) and reaction temperature of 51.300C. The yield of biodiesel under these conditions was 93.88%. Experiment was conducted under the specified optimum conditions to validate the result predicted by the software. The yield of biodiesel from the experiment was 93.36% which is very close to the value predicted by the software. The fatty acid composition of the biodiesel from mixed oil was analyzed using Gas chromatograph. The various fuel properties of biodiesel were determined using standard methods and results were compared with ASTM D6751 and EN 14214 standards. The physicochemical properties fulfill both standards.
The TGFβ/Notch axis facilitates Müller cell-to-epithelial transition to ultimately form a chronic glial scar
Authors: Conedera Federica Maria , Pousa Ana Maria Quintela , Mercader Nadia , Tschopp Markus , Enzmann Volker
Published: September 2020

Background

Contrasting with zebrafish, retinal regeneration from Müller cells (MCs) is largely limited in mammals. There, MCs undergo reactive gliosis that consist of a hypertrophic response and ultimately results in vision loss. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) is essential for wound healing, including both scar formation and regeneration. However, targeting TGFβ may affect other physiological mechanisms, owing its pleiotropic nature. The regulation of various cellular activities by TGFβ relies on its interaction with other pathways including Notch. Here, we explore the interplay of TGFβ with Notch and how this regulates MC response to injury in zebrafish and mice. Furthermore, we aimed to characterize potential similarities between murine and human MCs during chronic reactive gliosis.
Methods

Focal damage to photoreceptors was induced with a 532 nm diode laser in TgBAC (gfap:gfap-GFP) zebrafish (ZF) and B6-Tg (Rlbp1-GFP) mice. Transcriptomics, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry were employed for a comparative analysis of MC response to laser-induced injury between ZF and mouse. The laser-induced injury was paired with pharmacological treatments to inhibit either Notch (DAPT) or TGFβ (Pirfenidone) or TGFβ/Notch interplay (SIS3). To determine if the murine laser-induced injury model translates to the human system, we compared the related MC response to human donors with early retinal degeneration.
Results

Investigations into injury-induced changes in murine MCs revealed TGFβ/Notch interplay during reactive gliosis. We found that TGFβ1/2 and Notch1/2 interact via Smad3 to reprogram murine MCs towards an epithelial lineage and ultimately to form a glial scar. Similar to what we observed in mice, we confirmed the epithelial phenotype of human Müller cells during gliotic response.
Conclusion

This study indicates a pivotal role for TGFβ/Notch interplay in tuning MC stemness during injury response and provides novel insights into the remodeling mechanism during retinal degenerative diseases.
A Study of Genetic Variants in Genes of Glutamate Signaling and Risk of Childhood Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Liu Jun , Yu Hong , Hu Pingfang , Yang Aiping , Zhang Zengyu
Published: September 2020

Background: Dysfunction of glutamate signaling has been implicated in the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This case-control study was to examine the association between childhood ASD and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes of the glutamate signaling pathway in a Chinese Han population.Methods: A total of 12 SNPs in the SLC1A1, SLC25A12, GRM7 and GRM8 genes were examined. The Children Autism Rating Scale (CARS) was applied to evaluate the severity of the disease. The relationship between SNPs and the risk of ASD or the severity of the disease was determined by logistic regression.Results: The T allele of rs2292813 in the SLC25A12 gene was significantly associated with an increased risk of ASD (odds ratio (OD) =1.7, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1-2.6, P=0.0107). Other examined SNPs were not associated with the risk of ASD. None of the SNPs examined were associated with the severity of ASD.Conclusions: Our findings support the involvement of SNPs in the SLC25A12 gene, but not SNPs in the SLC1A1, GRM7 and DRM8 genes, in the development of childhood ASD in the Chinese Han population.