bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term effects of the mean hemoglobin A1c levels after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with diabetes
Authors: Bae Jaekyung , Yoon Ji-Hyung , Lee Jung-Hee , Nam Jong-Ho , Lee Chan-Hee , Son Jang-Won , Kim Ung , Park Jong-Seon , Shin Dong-Gu
Published: October 2020

Background: There is controversy regarding the long-term effect of glycemic control on the clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in diabetes patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of patients with diabetes who underwent PCI, according to the mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level after PCI.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 675 diabetes patients with CAD treated with PCI from 2010 to 2013. We categorized the study population into three groups based on the mean observed HbA1c levels during the follow-up duration, as follows: aggressive control (AC) group (HbA1c level <6.5%, n=148), moderate control (MC) group (HbA1c level ≥6.5% and <7.0%, n=138), and uncontrolled (UC) group (HbA1c level ≥7.0%, n=389). The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), defined as cardiac death, myocardial infarction, repeat target vessel revascularization, and stroke. The median follow-up duration was 74.1 (32.6–85.0) months.Results: The mean HbA1c level of the AC group was significantly lower than that of the MC and UC groups (6.04±0.36% vs. 6.74±0.14% vs. 8.39±1.20%, p<0.001). Patients in the AC group were older than those in the MC and UC groups (66.2±10.0 vs. 64.4±11.3 vs. 62.9±10.4 years, p=0.004); however, the other clinical characteristics were similar among the groups. The incidence of MACCEs was significantly lower in the AC group than in the MC and UC groups (16.0% vs. 24.3% vs. 26.3%, p=0.010), mostly driven by the incidence of stroke (4.4% vs. 14.0% vs. 11.0%, p=0.013). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that only the AC group was associated with a reduced rate of MACCEs (hazard ratio 0.513, 95% confidence interval 0.326–0.808, p=0.004) compared with the UC group.Conclusion: Our study showed that intensive glycemic control (HbA1c level <6.5%) is associated with improved clinical outcomes after PCI in patients with diabetes.
SARS-CoV 2 (Covid 19) heterogeneous mortality rate across countries may be partly explained by life expectancy, calorie intake and prevalence of diabetes.
Authors: Nkhata Smith G. , Nakoma-Ngoma Theresa , Chilenga Praise M
Published: October 2020

SARS-CoV 2 continues to disproportionately kill people across the world. To understand the reasons for such heterogeneity, we isolated dietary and environmental factors that can either prime or suppress human immunity. We grouped phytochemical and micronutrient rich food (fruits, vegetable and spices) as immunity primers while smoking, alcohol consumption, pollution, high calorie intake and diabetes as immunity suppressing factors and determined correlations with Covid-19 death per million populations (C19DM) using multiple linear regressions or where necessary, best fit trend lines. We also determined correlations between life expectancy alone or in combination with other factors and C19DM. Based on the data, we found no evidence that immunity primers explain C19DM heterogeneity across countries. This observation did not change even after including immunity suppressing factors in the models. Of all the factors under study, life expectancy (years), calorie intake (Kcal/person/day) and prevalence of diabetes (%) had significant association with C19DM (R2 = 0.301, p < 0.000). Therefore, these three factors should be further explored when trying to understand Covid-19 disproportionate mortality across countries.
Fecal and Ruminal Microbiome Components Associated With Methane Emission in Beef Cattle.
Authors: Andrade Bruno G.N. , Afli Haithem , Bressani Flavia A. , Cuadrat Rafael R. C. , Oliveira Priscila S. N. de , Mourão Gerson B. , Coutinho Luiz L. , Reecy James M. , Koltes James E. , Souza Marcela Maria de , Neto Adhemar Zerlotini , Medeiros Sérgio Raposo de , Berndt Alexandre , Palhares Julio C. P. , Regitano Luciana
Published: October 2020

Background: The impact of extreme changes in weather patterns in the economy and humanity welfare are some of the biggest challenges that our civilization is facing. From the anthropogenic activities that contribute to climate change, reducing the impact of farming activities is a priority, since its responsible for up to 18% of greenhouse gases linked to such activities. To this end, we tested if the ruminal and fecal microbiomes components of 52 Brazilian Nelore bulls, belonging to two experimental groups based on the feed intervention, conventional (A) and byproducts based diet (B), could be used as biomarkers for methane (CH4) emission.Results: We identified a total of 5,693 Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) in the Nelore bulls microbiomes from the experimental group B. Statistical analysis showed that the microbiome populations were significantly different among treatment groups. Differential abundance (DA) analysis with the ANCOM approach identified 30 bacterial and 15 archaea ASVs as DA among treatment groups. Random forest models, using either bacteria or archaea ASVs as predictors, were able to predict the treatment group with high accuracy (r2>0.85). Association analysis using Mixed Linear Models indicate that bacterial and archaea ASVs are linked to the CH4 emission phenotype, of which the most prominent were the ruminal ASV 40 and fecal ASV 35. These ASVs contributed to a 9.7% increase and 7.3% decrease of the variation in CH4 emission, respectively, which indicated their potential as targets for feed interventions and/or biomarkers.Conclusion: The feed composition induced significant differences in abundance and richness of ruminal and fecal microbial populations. The dietary treatment based on industrial byproducts applied had an impact on the microbiome diversity of bacteria and archaea, but not on protozoa. Microbiome components (ASVs) of bacteria and archaea can be successfully used to predict the treatment group, thus giving support to the hypothesis that the feed intervention modulate microbiome abundance and diversity. Microbiome components were associated with CH4 emission in both microbiomes. Therefore, both ruminal and fecal ASVs can be used as biomarkers for methane production and emission.
The Brazilian Perinatal Bereavement Project. Development and Evaluation of Supportive Guidelines for Families Experiencing Stillbirth and Neonatal Death in Southeast Brazil: A Quasi-experimental Before-and-after Study.
Authors: Salgado Heloisa de Oliveira , Andreucci Carla Betina , Gomes Ana Clara Rezende , Souza João Paulo
Published: October 2020

BackgroundFor most parents, getting pregnant means having a child. Generally, the couple outlines plans and has expectations regarding the baby. When these plans are interrupted because of a perinatal loss, it turns out to be a traumatic experience for the family. Validating the grief of these losses has been a challenge to Brazilian society, which is evident considering the childbirth care offered to bereaved families in maternity wards. Positively assessed care that brings physical and emotional memories about the baby has a positive impact on the bereavement process that family undergoes. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effects supportive guidelines have on mental health. They were designed to assist grieving parents and their families while undergoing perinatal loss in public maternities in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo state, Brazil. MethodA mixed-methods (qualitative/quantitative), quasi-experimental (before/after) study. The intervention is the implementation of bereavement supportive guidelines for women who experienced a stillbirth or a neonatal death. A total of forty women will be included. Twenty participants will be assessed before and twenty will be assessed after the implementation of the guidelines. A semi-structured questionnaire and three scales will be used to assess the effects of the guidelines. Health care professionals and managers of all childbirth facilities will be invited to participate in focus group interviews. Data will be analyzed using statistical tests, as well as thematic analysis approach. DiscussionThe Brazilian Perinatal Bereavement guidelines are a local adaptation of the Canadian and British corresponding guidelines. These guidelines have been developed based on the families’ needs of baby memories during the bereavement process and include the following aspects: (1) Organization of care into periods, considering their respective needs along the process; (2) Creation of the Bereavement Professional figure in maternity wards; (3) Adequacy of the institutional environment; (4) Communication of the guidance; (5) Creation of baby memories. We expect that the current project generates additional evidence for improving the mental health of women and families that experience a perinatal loss. Trial registrationClinical trial registry (waiting approval)
Application of One Health Approach in Training at Makerere University: Experiences From the One Health Workforce Project in Uganda
Authors: Atusingwize Edwinah , Ndejjo Rawlance , Tumukunde Gloria , Buregyeya Esther , Nsamba Peninah , Tuhebwe Doreen , Kato Charles Drago , Naigaga Irene , Musoke David , Kabasa John David , Bazeyo William
Published: October 2020

The interconnections of humans, domestic animals, wildlife and the environment have increasingly become complex, requiring innovative and collaborative approaches (One Health approach) for addressing global health challenges. One Health is a multidisciplinary and multi-sectoral collaborative approach to human, animal, plant and environmental health. The role of academia in training professionals oriented in One Health is critical in building a global workforce capable of enhancing synergies of various sectors in improving health. Makerere University, Uganda has implemented pre-service capacity building initiatives aimed to foster One Health competencies among students who are future practitioners. In addition to incorporating the One Health concept in didactic curricula, Student One Health Innovation Clubs, undergraduate field placements in 11 demonstration sites, graduate fellowships, small grants to support research and innovations, and cross-college collaborative training approaches have greatly aided the assimilation of One Health into the fabric of university offerings. Partnerships with government ministries, private sector and international agencies were initiated to benefit the students, as well as chart a path for experiential learning and in-service offerings in the future. One major challenge, however, has been the tendency to focus on infectious diseases, especially zoonoses, with less consideration of other health issues. The opportunity for improvement, nonetheless, lies in the increasing emerging and re-emerging health concerns including epidemics, environmental pollution and related challenges which justify the need for countries and institutions to focus on building and strengthening multidisciplinary health systems.
Analytical Validation and Performance of a 7-gene Next-generation Sequencing Panel in Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Alsina Katherina Maria , Sholl Lauren M , Covington Kyle R , Arnal Suzette M , Durante Michael M , Decatur Christina L , Stone John F , Oelschlager Kristen M , Harbour J William , Monzon Federico A , Cook Robert W , Borman Sherri
Published: October 2020

Background: A 15-gene expression profiling (GEP) test is widely used for prognostication of metastatic risk in uveal melanoma (UM) patients. Because the amount of tumor tissue that can be safely obtained by biopsy from UM is limited, it is critical to obtain as much individualized genomic information as possible from each biopsy sample. Mutational profiling of UM tumors using next generation sequencing (NGS) in combination with GEP allows for analysis of both DNA and RNA from a single tumor sample, offers additional prognostic value, and can potentially inform therapy selection. This study evaluated the analytical performance of a targeted custom NGS panel for mutational profiling of the seven genes known to be commonly mutated in primary UM.Methods: 105 primary UM samples were analyzed, including 37 formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) specimens and 68 fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) specimens obtained with a 25- or 27-gauge needle. Sequencing was performed on the Ion GeneStudio S5 platform to an average read depth of greater than 500X per region of interest in a clinical laboratory accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA).Results: The 7-gene panel assay achieved a positive percent agreement (PPA) of 100% for detection of both single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and insertions/deletions (INDELs), with a technical positive predictive value (TPPV) of 99.4% and 100%, respectively. Intra-assay and inter-assay concordance studies confirmed the reproducibility and repeatability of the assay. The limit of detection was determined to be 5% variant allele frequency (VAF) for both SNVs and INDELs, with a minimum DNA input requirement of 1.5ng for FNAB and 5ng for FFPE samples.Conclusions: The 7-gene panel is a robust, highly accurate NGS test that can be successfully performed, along with GEP, from a single small gauge needle biopsy sample.
Beneficial Effects of Decreased Meal Frequency on Nutrient Utilization, Secretion of Luteinizing Hormone and Ovarian Follicular Development in Gilts
Authors: Hua Lun , Zhao Lianpeng , Mao Zhengyu , Li Wentao , Li Jing , Jiang Xuemei , Che Lianqiang , Xu Shenyu , Lin Yan , Fang Zhengfeng , Feng Bin , Zhuo Yong , Wu De
Published: October 2020

Background: The replacement gilts are typically fed ad libitum, whereas emerging evidence in human and rodent studies revealed that time-restricted access to food had health benefits. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of meal frequency on metabolic status and ovarian follicular development in gilts.Methods: A total of 36 gilts (Landrace × Yorkshire) at age of 150 (±3) d and bodyweight at 77.6 (±3.8) kg were randomly allocated into one of three meal frequencies (n = 12) to feed one meal (T1); two meals (T2), or six meals per day (T6) for a consecutive 14 weeks. The effect of meal frequency on growth preference, nutrient utilization, gut microbial metabolite short-chain fatty acids production at a 3-h interval, dynamics of metabolic status after a meal test, reproductive hormone secretions, and ovarian follicular development were measured in gilts.Results: Gilts in T1 group had greater average daily gain (+48 g/d, P < 0.05) and bodyweight (+4.9kg, P < 0.05) than T6 gilts. The apparent digestibilities of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, ash and gross energy were not affected by meal frequency, except for a greater NDF digestibility in T1 gilts than T6 gilts (P < 0.05). Nitrogen balance trail reveal that the T1 gilts had lower urine excretion of nitrogen (-8.17 g/d, P < 0.05) and had a greater nitrogen retention (+9.81 g/d, P < 0.05), resulting in greater nitrogen utilization compared with T6 gilts. The time-course dynamics of glucose, α-amino nitrogen, urea, lactate, and insulin levels in serum revealed a greater utilization of nutrients after a meal test in T1 gilts than T2 or T6 gilts. The T1 gilts showed greater acetate content in feces compared with the other two groups (P < 0.05). The age, bodyweight and backfat thickness at first puberty of gilts were not affected by meal frequency, but gilts in T1 group had greater serum levels of luteinizing hormone and 17β-estradiol, a larger number of growing follicles and corpora lutea, and higher mRNA expression levels of genes related to follicular development on the 18th day of the 3rd estrus cycle.Conclusions: The current findings revealed unexpected benefits of meal frequency at one meal per day on the nutrient utilizations and reproductive function for replacement gilts, thus providing new insights into the nutritional strategy for replacement gilts, as well as the dietary pattern for other mammals, such as human.
The Protective Effect of Shuxin Shengmai Dan on Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Wang Xingye , Hao Zhenzhu , Piao Xinghu , Sun Li , Tao Ye , Zhong Xiaowei , Yang Haimiao , Wang Wei , Zhao Yicheng , Wang Bingmei
Published: October 2020

Background: The traditional Chinese medicine Shuxin Shengmai Dan (SXSMD) is clinically used to treat angina pectoris. The mechanism of action of SXSMD protection of the heart involves inhibition of inflammation and remains poorly understood. The role of SXSMD in rats with myocardial ischemia reperfusion (IR) and the mechanism of SXSMD action were studied in this research.Methods: The rats were treated with SXSMD (3.38, 6.76, and 13.52 g/kg/day, p.o.) or Danshen injecta (1.8 mL/kg/day, p.o.) for 15 days, then the coronary arteries were ligated. Cardiac function was evaluated by electrocardiography and hemodynamic measurements. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was used to detect pathological changes in ischemic myocardial sections. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to assess the ultrastructure of cardiomyocytes. The changes in IL-6 and TNF-α in the rat serum were detected by ELISA. The changes in the expression levels of HMGB1, TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB mRNAs and proteins related to the TLR4/NF-κB pathway in myocardial tissue were detected by qPCR and Western blot, respectively.Results: Rats with coronary artery ligation had abnormal cardiac function, inflammatory infiltration of myocardial cells, disordered myocardial fiber arrangement, accumulation of mitochondria, and disordered muscle fibers and sarcomeres according to electron microscopy. The levels of the expression of mRNAs and proteins in myocardial tissue of the SXSMD group were decreased compared with those in the MIRI group. The serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were decreased. SXSMD treatment can inhibit the inflammatory response and downregulate the TLR4/NF-κB pathway in cardiomyocytes.Conclusion: SXSMD protects the rats from myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in the MIRI model by downregulating the TLR4/NF-κB pathway to inhibit inflammation.
Attributes and Generic Competencies Required of Doctors In 21st Century Health-Care Systems: A Participatory Concept Mapping Study
Authors: Ogden Kathryn Jane , Kilpatrick Sue , Elmer Shandell , Rooney Kim
Published: October 2020

Background: Health professionals’ education should ensure graduates are equipped for practice in modern health-care systems. One hundred years after the Flexner Report on medical education, transformation in health-care systems has warranted reflection on priorities for medical education. Practicing effectively in modern health-care systems requires contemporary attributes and competencies, complimenting core clinical competencies. These need to be made overt and opportunities to develop and practice them provided. This study explicates these attributes and generic competencies using Group Concept Mapping methodology, with the aim of informing curriculum development in pre-vocational medical education.Methods: Group Concept Mapping consists of four phases: 1) Idea generation, review and synthesis; 2) Sorting and rating 3) Analysis of data using quantitative and qualitative techniques to produce a visual concept map; and 4) Confirmation and interpretation of results using logic model transformation. Multiple stakeholders contributed to the development of the conceptual model, including junior doctors who rated competencies according to importance to their practice and preparedness at graduation.Results: Sixty-seven participants from stakeholder groups generated 338 responses to the prompt: ‘An attribute or non-clinical competency required of doctors for effective practice in modern health-care systems is...’ These responses were synthesised into 60 statements which were sorted by participants into groupings according to similarity. Multi-dimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis led to a conceptual map of seven clusters representing: Value-led professionalism; Attributes for self-awareness and reflective practice; Cognitive capability; Active engagement; Communication to build and manage relationships; Patient-centredness and advocacy; and Systems awareness, thinking and contribution. Logic model transformation identified three overarching meta-competencies: Leadership and systems thinking; Learning and cognitive processes; and Interpersonal capability. Ratings indicated that junior doctors believe system-related competencies are less important than other competencies, and they feel less prepared to carry them out. Conclusion: Group Concept Mapping was used to conceptualise the attributes and generic competencies required for effective practice modern health-care systems. The operationalization of the model through logic model transformation further identifies the links between attributes, their application through competency, and the outputs that they lead to. Rating of items can identify priorities for ensuring a medical education which addresses contemporary health-care needs.
Pretreatment Serum Ferritin as a Prognostic Indicator in Advanced Cancer Patients Treated With Apatinib: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Haiming , Huang Yi-Chao , Liu Xin-Fu , Lu Yi-Yu , Gu Wei-Guang
Published: October 2020

Background: The present study has evaluated the prognostic value of pretherapy serum ferritin (SF) levels in advanced cancer patients receiving apatinib therapy after multiline treatment for drug resistance. Methods: This retrospective cohort reviewed the clinicopathological characteristics and pretreatment levels of SF of 124 patients with advanced cancer treated with apatinib. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the overall survival rate (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), and the log-rank test was used to assess the statistical significance. Univariate and multivariate analyses of Cox proportional hazard regression were used to assess the prognostic impact of advanced cancer. Results: Participants in this study were previously treated with at least two treatment regimens. 52.4% of the patients had the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG-PS)≥2. Median PFS was 8.57 weeks, and the median overall survival was 9.43 weeks. The OS and PFS of patients with elevated SF were significantly shorter than those with low SF (p <0.001 and p <0.001, respectively). Conclusions: SF can be used as an important prognostic indicator for advanced cancer patients with the treatment of apatinib after multiline treatment for drug resistance.
The Effects of Suillus Luteus Inoculation on Rhizospheric Fungal Community Diversity and Structure of Pinus Massoniana in Mining Area
Authors: Yu Peiyi , Ning Chen , Chen Jingzhen , Zhu Fan , Shen Airong , Zeng Wenbin , Jiang Lijuan
Published: October 2020

BackgroundAs important decomposers and plant symbionts, soil fungal communities play a major role in remediating heavy metal polluted soils. However, diversity and structure of fungal communities generally remain unclear in mining area. This study aimed to assess the rhizospheric fungal community composition of masson’s pine (Pinus massoniana) in lead-zinc mining area of Suxian district, Hunan Province, China. The experiment was treated as three ways: masson’s pine inoculated with or without Suillus luteus and bulk soil without plant as control. ResultsThe results showed that the inoculation of ectomycorrhizal fungi could enlarge the plants’ capability to absorb heavy metals and secrete soil enzymes. The richness and diversity of fungi in rhizospheric soil were significantly higher than bulk soil (p＜0.05), but no obvious difference between rhizospheric soils inoculated with and without ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi while the community structure was changed. The rhizospheric fungi belong to 6 phylum, 25 classes, 65 orders, 115 families and 150 genera and the dominant phyla were Chytridiomycota (50.49%), Ascomycota (38.54%), and Basidiomycota (9.02%). By using LEfSe and heatmap, the relative abundance of Suillus, Paraglomus, Agaricus, and Tulasnella were the highest with ECM fungi inoculation. Redundant analysis (RDA) showed that the community structure significantly changed with ECM fungi inoculation, which was significantly related to soil water content, carbon nitrogen ratio, bulk density, available potassium, and soil enzymes. ConclusionsAll together, the inoculation with ECM fungi may change the inhabit environment of microorganisms and the dominant fungi in soil, which provided a screening of keystone species in the heavy metal-contaminated mining area.
Distribution of Virulence Genes Among Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus of Clinical and Environmental Origin
Authors: Bhowmik Deepshikha , Chetri Shiela , Das Bhaskar Jyoti , Chanda Debadatta Dhar , Bhattacharjee Amitabha
Published: October 2020

Objective: This study was designed to discover the dissemination of virulence genes in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from clinical and environmental settings. Results: The virulence gene such as sea (n=54), seb (n=21), eta (n=27), etb (n=2), cna (n=24), ica (n=2) and tst (n=30) was revealed from this study. Different SCCmec types such as type I, type II, type III, type IV, type V, type VI, type VII, type VIII and type XII were detected among sixty three MRSA isolates where SCCmec type II having ST1551 and type V with ST2416 were found to be associated with multidrug resistance and were highly prevalent in the study area.
S-adenosylmethionine Decarboxylase 1 Participates in PM2.5 Exposure Induced Neuronal Apoptosis via Mitochondria-Mediated Pathway
Authors: Zhu Xiaozheng , Shou Yikai , Ji Xintong , Hu Yu , Wang Huanhuan
Published: October 2020

Background: Fine particle (Particulate matter 2.5, PM2.5), as the primary ambient pollutant, is considered harmful to some neurodegenerative diseases, while the specific biochemical mechanism underlying is still unrevealed. Neuronal apoptosis is believed the crucial event in neurodegenerative pathogenesis, but evidence supporting neuronal apoptosis as PM2.5 induced neuronal injury is insufficient. S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase 1 (AMD1) and its related spermidine synthesis have been shown to participate in cellular apoptosis, but its role in PM2.5 exposure induced neuronal apoptosis was rarely reported. To better understand contribution of AMD1 activity and spermidine in PM2.5 exposure induced neuronal apoptosis, may provide novel therapeutic and preventive targets for air pollution associated neurodegenerative diseases.Methods: In the current work, sixteen C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into ambient PM2.5 chamber or filtered air chamber, and the mouse model of whole-body ambient PM2.5 chronic exposure was established. Behavioral and cognitive ability, together with corresponding biomedical index were recorded and tested to evaluated neurotoxicity by PM2.5 exposure in mice. In parallel, PC12 cells and primary hippocampal neurons were applied for PM2.5 treatment to explore the possible cellular and molecular mechanism which may be critically involved in the process. AMD1 activity and cellular spermidine content were modulated by pharmacological approach to examine their participation in PM2.5 triggered neuronal apoptosis, followed by better examination of typical index for mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis pathway signaling.Results: Chronic ambient PM2.5 exposure attenuated spatial learning and memory ability, and triggered neuronal apoptosis together with increased expression of apoptosis-related Bax/Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase-3. PM2.5 exposure impaired AMD1 expression and spermidine synthesis. AMD1 inhibition could mimick PM2.5 exposure induced neuronal apoptosis. Spermidine supplementation rescued against neurotoxicity and inhibited PM2.5 induced apoptosis, in which mitochondrial pathway signaling.Conclusions: Chronic real-time exposure to ambient PM2.5 led to the reduced the ability of spatial learning and memory in mice. Neuronal apoptosis was the key event in the process of neurodegenerative development induced by PM2.5 exposure. AMD1 and spermidine participated in neuronal apoptosis induced by PM2.5 exposure, which was at least partially dependent on mitochondria mediated pathway.
Effect of Under Triage on Early Mortality After Major Pediatric Trauma: A Registry-based Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Ageron François-Xavier , Porteaud Jordan , Evain Jean-Noël , Millet Anne , Greze Jules , Vallot Cécile , Levrat Albrice , Mortamet Guillaume , Bouzat Pierre
Published: October 2020

Backgroundlittle is known about the effect of under triage on early mortality in trauma in a pediatric population. Our objective is to describe the effect of under triage on 24 hour-mortality after major pediatric trauma in a regional trauma systemMethodsThis cohort study was conducted from January 2009 to December 2017. Data were obtained from the registry of the Northern French Alps Trauma System. The network guidelines triage pediatric trauma patients according to an algorithm shared with adult patients. Under triage was defined by the number of pediatric trauma patients that required specialized trauma care transported to a non-level I pediatric trauma center on the total number of injured patients with critical resource use. The effect of under triage on 24 hour-mortality was assessed with inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) and a propensity score (Ps) matching analysis. ResultsA total of 1 143 pediatric patients were included (mean [SD], age 10 [5] years), mainly after a blunt trauma (1130 [99%]). Of the children, 402 (35%) had an ISS higher than 15 and 547 (48%) required specialized trauma care. Nineteen (1.7%) patients died within 24 hours. Under triage rate was 33% based on the need of specialized trauma care. Under triage of children requiring specialized trauma care increased the risk of death in IPTW (risk difference: 6.0 [95% CI 1.3-10.7]) and Ps matching analyses (risk difference: 3.1 [95% CI 0.8-5.4]).ConclusionsIn a regional inclusive trauma system, under triage increased the risk of early death after pediatric major trauma.
Does engagement with frontline health workers improve maternal and child healthcare utilisation and outcomes in India?
Authors: Rammohan Anu , Goli Srinivas , Saroj Shashi Kala , CP Abdul Jaleel
Published: October 2020

Background Poor Maternal and Child Health (MCH) outcomes pose challenges to India’s ability to attain Goal-3 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The government of India strengthened the existing network of Frontline Health Workers (FHWs), under its National Rural Health Mission in 2005 and subsequent National Urban Health Mission in 2013 as a strategy to mitigate the shortage of skilled health workers and to provide affordable healthcare services. However, there is a lack of robust national-level empirical analysis on the role of maternal engagement with FHWs in influencing the level of maternal and child health care utilisation and child health outcomes in India. Methods Using data from the nationally representative Indian National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 2015-16, this paper aims to investigate the intensity of engagement of FHWs with married women of child-bearing age (15-49 years), its influence on utilisation of maternal and child healthcare services, and child health outcomes. Our empirical analyses use multivariate regression analyses, focusing on five maternal and child health indicators: antenatal care visits (ANC) (4 or >4 times), institutional delivery, full-immunisation of children, postnatal care (PNC) (within 2 days of delivery), and child survival. Results Our analysis finds that maternal engagement with FHWs is statistically significant and a positive predictor of maternal and child health care utilisation, and child survival. Further, the level of engagement with FHWs is particularly important for women from economically poor households. Our robustness checks across sub-samples of women who delivered only in public health institutions and those from rural areas provides an additional confidence in our main results. Conclusions From a policy perspective, our findings highlight that strengthening the network of FHWs in the areas where they are in shortage which can help in further improving the utilisation of maternal and child healthcare services, and health outcomes.
Needs-Led Research: A Way of Employing User Involvement in Establishing Research Questions on the Trust Model Within Community Home-Based Health Care Services in Norway
Authors: Slåtsveen Ruth-Ellen , Wibe Torunn , Halvorsrud Liv , Lund Anne
Published: October 2020

Background This article presents a user involvement process in Norway regarding the performance of the trust model within community home-based health care services. The process, referred to as needs-led research (NLR), is inspired by the James Lind Alliance (JLA) and focuses on bringing together service users, next of kin and clinicians, also referred to as stakeholders, on equal terms to explore research priorities in a priority-setting partnership.Method The following five-step process was followed, in which representatives from service users, next of kin and clinicians were involved in every step. Step 1: A meeting organised in the form of a workshop with service users, next of kin and clinicians to discuss and narrow the scope. Step 2: Steering group meeting. Step 3: Online survey to identify uncertainties regarding the scope. Step 4: Data review and interim prioritisation of research questions. Step 5: Online survey prioritising the final top 10 research questions.Results Almost 200 participants contributed during the five steps, 294 submissions were gathered, and 35 participants voted for the top 10 list. ConclusionThis NLR process was experienced as feasible, and the user involvement shows that it is appropriate and necessary to involve service users, next of kin and clinicians in creating research questions that are relevant to the field.
Breed Differences In The Expression Levels Of Gga-Mir-222a In Laying Hens Influenced H2S Production By Regulating Methionine Synthase Genes In Gut Bacteria
Authors: Xing Sicheng , Huang Chunbo , Wu Ruiting , Yang Yiwen , Chen Jingyuan , Mi Jiandui , Wu Yinbao , Wang Yan , Liao Xindi
Published: October 2020

Background: The microbiota in the cecum of laying hens was critical for host digestion metabolism and odor gas production. Recent studies have suggested that host miRNAs could regulate gene expression in the gut microbiota. The expression profiles of host-derived miRNAs in the cecal content of two laying hen breeds, Hy-line Gray and Lohmann Pink, which have dissimilar H2S production were characterized, and their possible effects on H2S production by regulating the expression of related genes in the microbiota were demonstrated. Results: The differential expression of microbial serine O-acetyltransferase, methionine synthase, aspartate aminotransferase, methionine-gamma-lyase and adenylylsulfate kinase between the two breeds resulted in lower H2S production in the Hy-line hens. The results also demonstrated miRNA exosomes in the cecal content of laying hens and the potential miRNA-target relationships between 9 differentially expressed miRNAs and 9 differentially expressed microbial genes related to H2S production were investigated, among which gga-miR-222a targeted two methionine synthase genes, Odosp_3416 and BF9343_2953. An in vitro fermentation experiment showed that gga-miR-222a upregulated the expression of these genes, which increased methionine concentrations but decreased H2S production and soluble sulfide concentrations, indicating the potential of host-derived gga-miR-222a to reduce H2S emission in laying hens. Conclusion: These findings identify both a physiologic role by which miRNA shapes the cecal microbiota of laying hens and a strategy to use host miRNAs to manipulate the microbiome and actively expressed key microbial genes to reduce H2S emission and breed environmentally friendly laying hens.
Recovery of Human Gut Microbiota Genomes Substantially With Third-generation Sequencing
Authors: Li Yanfei , Jin Yueling , Pan Haoying , Zhang Jianming , Wu Lan , Liu Dingsheng , Liu Jinlong , Shen Junwei , Hu Jing
Published: October 2020

BackgroundHuman gut microbiota modulates normal physiological functions, such as the maintenance of barrier homeostasis and the modulation of metabolism, and various chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes and gastrointestinal cancer. Despite decades of researches, the composition of the gut microbiota remains unexplored and unidentified. ResultsHere we established an effective extraction method to obtain high-quality gut microbiota genomic DNA and detected the samples with third-generation sequencing technology. We acquired a quite big data form each sample and assembled many reliable contigs. Not only enormous unknown genes, but also several new bacteria subspecies or species were identified. ConclusionsThis work provides a novel and reliable framework to recover gut microbiota genomes substantially, facilitating the understanding of the roles of the microbiome that underlie in human health and disease.
Preoperative lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio in the prognostication of advanced resectable colon cancer: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Kasahara Kenta , Ishizaki Tetsuo , Enomoto Masanobu , Mazaki Junichi , Okazaki Naoto , Tago Tomoya , Udo Ryutaro , Nagakawa Yuichi , Katsumata Kenji , Tsuchida Akihiko
Published: October 2020

Background: Lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) has been reported as a biomarker for predicting the prognosis of colorectal cancer. However, proof of the clinical usefulness of LMR requires detailed research on subjects that can contribute to therapeutic strategies. Our study aimed to provide a detailed link to resectable advanced colorectal cancer for which LMR is predicted to be particularly useful. Methods: A cohort of 554 resectable advanced colon cancer patients in our institution was analysed retrospectively. The analysis was performed on all cases of resectable advanced colon cancer and Stage II and Stage III. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed to determine the LMR cut-off value. The relationship between LMR, clinicopathologic factors, and other biomarkers were analysed using a Kaplan-Meier log-rank survival analysis and then multivariate Cox regression models looking for association with overall survival (OS) and Relapse free survival (RFS). Results: LMR was useful for predicting OS and RFS in the analysis of all cases. Moreover, it was an independent prognostic factor in the multivariate analysis [hazard ratio (HR)= 0.530, 95% confidence intervals (CI)= 0.334–0.842, P=0.007]. LMR was also an independent prognostic predictor at each stage. In particular, it was highly useful for prediction in cases with lymph node metastasis (StageⅢ) and was a prognostic predictor following the N factor.
Methylation of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene promoter is a generalized feature on molecular pathology tests of sporadic renal cell carcinomas in Taiwan
Authors: Lai Yen-Chein , Wang Wen-Chung
Published: October 2020

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer in adults. Approximately 50% to 80% of sporadic RCCs are associated with mutations in the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene in Western countries. The aim of this study is to elucidate the possible etiological role of molecular pathogenesis in sporadic RCCs in Taiwan.Methods: Fifteen patients with RCC were screened for mutations in the VHL gene and methylation statuses of promoters of 24 tumor suppressor genes. Mutations were identified by PCR and Sanger sequencing. Methylation statuses were determined on methylation sensitive multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MS-MLPA) analysis.Results: Inactivation of VHL gene was observed in 5 cases: three missense somatic mutations, V155G in case 1, N141S in case 5, and E52D in case 9; promoter methylation in case 3; and small deletion in case 13. RCCs were most frequently methylated at APC (100%, 14/14), CDKN2B (92.9%, 13/14), CASP8, MLH1_167, and KLLN (85.7.4%, 12/14), but not at FHIT, MLH1_463, DAPK1, or HIC1 (0%).Conclusions: In addition to VHL inactivation, promoter methylation of APC and CDKN2B may play important roles in the tumorigenesis of RCC. Methylation of APC may be a very early pathognomonic event in tumorigenesis of RCC and a candidate diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker.
Challenges in The Regulatory Use of Water Accommodated Fractions for Assessing Complex Substances
Authors: Wheeler James Robert , Lyon Delina , Paulo Carolina di , Grosso Albania , Crane Mark
Published: October 2020

The use of the Water Accommodated Fraction (WAF) approach for the preparation of exposure systems of complex substances such as petroleum products has been a standard way to perform aquatic toxicity tests on these substances for over 30 years. In this Commentary we briefly describe the historical development, rationale, and guidance for the use and reporting of the WAF approach to assess complex substances. We then discuss two case studies, with coal tar pitch and kerosene/jet fuel, which illustrate challenges from regulatory authorities in Europe and the United States when using the WAF approach. We describe how the WAF approach is the only currently known method for testing the toxicity of the whole of a complex substance, even when some of its constituents remain unknown; it accounts for differences in the solubility of the constituents within a complex substance; and use of loading rates to describe any toxic effects is a unifying concept that allows direct comparison with releases of readily soluble substances in hazard assessment and chemical classification.
The Influence of Physical and Mental Exercises on the Mental Health of Middle-Aged and Old People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Huang Jinfeng , Han Bin , Wan Fada , Tan Guangxin
Published: October 2020

BackgroundTo evaluate the influence effect of physical and mental exercises on the mental health of the middle-aged and old people by using Meta analysis method. MethodsRetrieve databases such as CNKI, WanFang data, VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals, Pubmed, Scopus, web of science, etc. to collect randomized controlled trials of the effect of physical and mental exercises on the mental health of the middle-aged and old people. ResultsThe effects of physical and mental exercises on the somatization and obsessive-compulsive symptoms of middle-aged and old women belongs to a medium effect, and their influence effect on symptoms such as interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, phobic anxiety, paranoid ideation belongs to a small effect. The effects of physical and mental exercises on the middle-aged people is greater than that of the old people for symptoms such as obsessive-compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, and hostility, which belongs to a small-to-medium effect. For the symptoms such as somatization, anxiety, and paranoid ideation, the influence effect of physical and mental exercises on the old is greater than that of the middle-aged, which belongs to a small-to-medium effect. The effects of physical and mental exercises for 45-60 minutes each time, 3 times a week, lasting 12-20 weeks on the middle-aged and old for symptoms such as somatization, obsessive-compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, phobic anxiety, paranoid ideation is significant, which belongs to a small-to-medium effect. The effects of Tai Chi exercise on somatization, obsessive-compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, phobic anxiety, paranoia and other symptoms of middle-aged and elderly people were small to medium. ConclusionPhysical and mental exercises have a small-to-medium effect on the middle-aged and old people for the symptoms such as somatization, obsessive-compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, phobic anxiety, and paranoid ideation, but they have no significant effect on psychosis.
Perceptions Towards COVID-19 and Adoption of Preventive Measures Among the Public in Saudi Arabia: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Alkhaldi Ghadah , Aljuraiban Ghadeer S. , Alhurishi Sultana , De Souza Roberta , Lamahewa Kethakie , Lau Rosa , Alshaikh Fahdah
Published: October 2020

Background: Effective management of the spread of a novel infectious disease, such as the COVID-19 virus can be achieved through influencing people’s behavior to adopt preventive measures. The public’s perceptions and attitudes towards the virus, governmental guidance and preventive measures were unknown in Saudi Arabia. Objectives: Identify the anxiety level, risk perception, information sources, adoption of preventive measures, and ability and willingness to self-isolate during and post-lockdown periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigate socio-demographic factors associated with adoption of preventive measures against COVID-19 and self-isolation.Method: Between April 22nd and June 21st 2020, Saudi adults aged ≥18 years completed an open web-based survey including questions on anxiety level, COVID-19 risk perceptions and adoption of preventive measures. Weighted percentages, Pearson’s chi-square tests, and multiple logistic regression were applied to evaluate associations between these factors and socio-demographic variables. Results: A total of 2,393 respondents filled-out the survey with around (27.2%) aged 35-44 years old. Around 11% of the respondents reported high anxiety level, 74% were worried about the COVID-19 outbreak, and of those, 27% reported that it is likely that they will be infected with COVID-19 with 16% believing it will be life-threatening or severe. Adoption of hygiene practices and social distancing were lower among older (65+ years) compared to younger (18-24 years) respondents (OR: 0.06; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.28, OR 0.06; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.27), respectively. Around 88% reported being able and 82% willing to self-isolate. Those with the lowest gross household income and those with at least one flu symptom were less able and willing to self-isolate. A significant increase was reported in levels of anxiety, perceived effectiveness of social distancing and hygiene practices in the post-lockdown period compared to the lockdown. Conclusions: The study reported high levels of adoption of preventive measures and willingness and perceived ability to self-isolate during the early phase of the pandemic. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, and those with low socio-economic status reported lower adoption of preventive measures or ability and willingness to self-isolate. Tailored public health messages and interventions are needed to achieve high adherence to these preventive measures in these groups.