bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and associations of active trachoma among rural preschool children in Wadla district, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Kassaw Mesfin Wudu , Abebe Ayele Mamo , Tegegne Kirubel Dagnaw , Getu Mikiyas Amare , Bihonegn Woldemichael Tadesse
Published: February 2020

Background፡Trachoma is a neglected eye problem and an important cause of preventable corneal blindness. In endemic areas, initial infection can occur in early childhood, and following recurrent episodes of infection, it progresses to scarring and blindness. In past decades, trachoma disappeared from developed countries through enhancements of hygiene and sanitation but the disease is still a problem in developing countries. In Ethiopia, data indicate that Amhara is the region with the highest prevalence of active trachome. The aim of this study was to asse{Birlie, 2016 #48}ss prevalence and association of active trachoma among rural preschool children in Wadla district, north Wollo zone, Amhara. Methods: A total of 596 children aged 1–5 years living in 30 of Wadla’s 150 rural villages were screened for signs of active trachoma using a cluster sampling technique. Following pre-testing of the survey instrument in a different district, questions about socio-demographic status were asked of heads of households by health informatics professionals. Integrated eye care workers, previously trained to undertake trachoma screening over one month, performed eye examination. Logistic regression was used to look for associations of active trachoma.Results: The prevalence of active trachoma among rural pre-school age children in Wadla district was 22%. Low economic status (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.8 (95% CI 1.3–11.4), being 37– 48 months old (4.2;1.5–12.0), living in a house with thatched roof (4.4;1.4–13.6), presence of flies in the home (4.6;2.1–9.9), once-weekly face-washing frequency (8.6;2.5–29.3), having a face that had not been washed for longer than a week (10.6;2.9–37.7), and not using soap when washing hands (4.5;1.8–11.3) were associated with active trachomaConclusion: The prevalence of active trachoma among rural pre-school children was high and it is still a major public health problem in Wadla. Thus, the woreda health office should create awareness for Wadla woreda communities.
Plasmacytoma in patients with multiple myeloma: morphology and immunohistochemistry
Authors: Firsova Maiia , Mendeleeva Larisa , Kovrigina Alla , Solovev Maxim , Savchenko Valery
Published: February 2020

Background. To study the histological structure and immunohistochemical (IHC) parameters of the plasmacytoma tumour substrate in patients with multiple myeloma (MM).
Methods. The study included 21 patients (10 men/11 women) aged 23 to 73 years old with newly diagnosed MM complicated by plasmacytoma. Bone plasmacytoma was diagnosed in 14 patients, and extramedullary plasmacytoma was diagnosed in 7 patients. Plasmacytoma tissue specimens were examined using a LEICA DM4000B microscope. Anti-CD56, anti-CD166, anti-CXCR4, anti-Ki-67, and anti-c-MYC antibodies were used for IHC study of plasmacytoma biopsies.
Results. When comparing the morphology of bone and extramedullary plasmacytoma, no significant differences were revealed; however, the substrate of extramedullary plasmacytoma was more often represented by tumour cells with an immature morphology than was the bone plasmacytoma substrate (57.1% vs. 28.6%, respectively). We revealed a significant difference in the expression of CD166 between bone and extramedullary plasmacytoma. The mean values ​​of CD166 expression in bone plasmacytoma cells were significantly higher (36.29 ± 7.61% versus 9.57 ± 8.46%, respectively; p = 0.033) than those in extramedullary plasmacytoma cells. We noticed that in extramedullary plasmacytoma cells, there were higher values for the Ki-67 index than in bone plasmacytoma cells, and this result was independent of cell morphology.
Conclusion. The mechanisms involved in the dissemination of tumour plasma cells are currently unexplored. Even in such a small sample, some differences in expression could be identified, which may indicate that different mechanisms lead to the formation of bone and extramedullary plasmacytomas. Specifically, the expression of CD166 in extramedullary plasmacytoma cells was almost 4 times lower than that in bone plasmacytoma cells, which may indicate the involvement of CD166 in the mechanisms of bone destruction. The proliferative activity of extramedullary plasmacytoma cells was shown to be higher than that of bone plasmacytoma cells.
Meta-analysis reveals severe pollen limitation for the flowering plants growing in the East Himalaya-Hengduan Mountains region.
Authors: jiang xianfeng , Xie Yanping
Published: February 2020

Background: Pollen limitation occurs widely and has an important effect on flowering plants. The East Himalaya-Hengduan Mountains region is a global biodiversity hotspot. However, to our knowledge, no study has synthetically assessed the degree of pollen limitation in this area. The present study aims to reveal the degree of pollen limitation for the flowering plants growing on the East Himalaya-Hengduan Mountains and to test whether the reproductive features or the elevation is closely correlated with the degree of pollen limitation in this area.Results: We complied data from 76 studies, which included 96 species and 108 independent data records. We found that the flowering plants in this area undergo severe pollen limitation (overall Hedges’ d=2.004, with a 95% confidence interval [1.3264, 2.6743]) that is much higher than that of the flowering plants growing in many other regions around the world. The degree of pollen limitation was tested to determine the correlation with the capacity for autonomous self-reproduction and with the pollination pattern (generalized vs. specialized pollination) of plants. In addition, we found a clear relationship between elevation and the degree of pollen limitation, which indicates that plants might undergo more severe pollen limitation in relatively high places.Conclusions: This paper is the first to address the severe pollen limitation of the flowering plants growing in the East Himalaya-Hengduan Mountains region. Moreover, we reveal the positive correlation between elevation and the degree of pollen limitation.
Modified Bunnell suture versus bundle-to-bundle suture for acute Achilles tendon rupture: A prospective comparative study of patients aged <45 years
Authors: wang xiaomeng , Liu Huixin , li dengke , luo zixuan , Li Yansen , Zhang Fengqi
Published: February 2020

Background: This study was performed to compare the operative outcome between percutaneous repair (modified Bunnell suture) and open repair (bundle-to-bundle suture) for treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture.Methods: Seventy-two consecutive patients who underwent surgical treatment of Achilles tendon rupture were evaluated. Thirty-six patients were treated by the bundle-to-bundle suture technique (Group A), and 36 patients were treated by the modified Bunnell suture technique (Group B). Functional examination included measurement of the calf muscle circumference and performance of the single-leg heel-rise test. The length and diameter of the Achilles tendon were compared between the injured and uninjured sides using magnetic resonance imaging. The number of single-leg heel rises (height of >5 cm) performed within 15 s was compared between the injured and uninjured sides. The ankle joint range of motion was also recorded. The Achilles tendon total rupture score (ATRS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale score, and visual analog scale (VAS) pain score were used to evaluate the clinical outcome after a minimum 12-month postoperative follow-up period.Results: In total, 61 patients were followed up. The mean follow-up time was not significantly different between Group A (23.73 ± 2.81 months) and Group B (22.61 ± 3.96 months). However, there were significant differences in the heel-rise test (Group A, 1.74 ± 0.96; Group B, 2.37 ± 1.42) and length of the Achilles tendon (Group A, 11.98 ± 1.64 cm; Group B, 11.11 ± 1.74 cm). The calf circumference of the injured side was significantly larger in Group A than B (p = 0.043). The cross-sectional diameter of the Achilles tendon after open repair was significantly different from that after percutaneous repair. There were no significant differences in the ATRS, AOFAS score, or VAS score at the final follow-up between the two groups. One patient in Group A had delayed wound healing, which resolved in about 40 days.Conclusions: Both suture methods described in this report can provide good clinical results. The bundle-to-bundle suture technique is more effective for restoration of the Achilles tendon length and muscle function. This method is safe, effective, and worthy of promotion.
Access to primary healthcare services and associated factors in urban slums in Nairobi-Kenya
Authors: Otieno Peter O. , Wambiya Elvis Omondi Achach , Mohamed Shukri M , Mutua Martin Kavao , Kibe Peter M , Mwangi Bonventure , Donfouet Hermann Pythagore Pierre
Published: February 2020

Background: Access to primary healthcare is crucial for the delivery of Kenya’s universal health coverage (UHC) policy. However, disparities in healthcare have proved to be the biggest challenge for implementing primary care in poor-urban resource settings. In this study, we assessed the level of access to primary healthcare services and associated factors in urban slums in Nairobi-Kenya.
Methods: The data were drawn from the Lown scholars’ study of 300 randomly selected households in Viwandani slums (Nairobi, Kenya), between June and July 2018. Access to primary care was measured using Penchansky and Thomas’ model. Access index was constructed using principal component analysis and recoded into tertiles with categories labeled as poor, moderate and highest. Generalized ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with access to primary care. The adjusted odds ratios and 95 percent confident intervals were used to interpret the strength of associations.
Results : The odds of being in the lowest versus combined moderate and highest access tertile were significantly higher for female than male-headed households (AOR 1.91 [95% CI 1.03-3.54]; p < .05). Households with an average quarterly out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure of ≥$30 had significantly lower odds of being in the lowest versus combined moderate and highest access tertile compared to those spending ≤ $5 quarterly (AOR 0.33 [95% CI 0.50-1.90]; p< .001). Households that sought care from private facilities had significantly higher odds of being in the lowest versus combined moderate and highest access compared to the public facilities (AOR 3.77 [95% CI 2.16-6.56]; p < .05).

Conclusion : In Nairobi slums in Kenya, living in a female-headed household and seeking care from private facilities are significantly associated with low access to primary care. Therefore, the design of the UHC program in this setting should prioritize the regulation of private health facilities and focus on policies that encourage economic empowerment of female-headed households to improve access to primary healthcare.
Keywords: Access to primary healthcare, Universal health coverage, Urban slums, Penchansky and Thomas’s model.
Components of metabolic syndrome in patients with multiple myeloma and smoldering multiple myeloma
Authors: Markus Efrat , Trestman Svetlana , Cohen Yael , Angel Yoel , Sofer Yael , Mittelman Moshe , Avivi Irit , Stern Naftali , Izkhakov Elena
Published: February 2020

Background: The prevalences of diabetes mellitus and hypertension, both of which are components of metabolic syndrome, are known to be increased among patients with multiple myeloma (MM), but remain undetermined among patients with smoldering MM (SMM). Methods: Changes in various components of metabolic syndrome were investigated during the follow-up of patients with either MM or SMM compared to healthy controls. The data of 153 patients (105 with MM and 48 with SMM) and 138 controls were accessed from our medical center’s records between 2008-2015. We analyzed the patients’ data at diagnosis (baseline) and after 1, 3, and 5 years of follow-up. Results: Patients with SMM had a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia at baseline compared to controls. A multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed a higher risk to develop dyslipidemia after 1, 3, and 5 years of follow-up among the SMM patients. The MM patients had a higher risk to develop diabetes after 1 year, hypertension after 5 years, and dyslipidemia after 1, 3, and 5 years of follow-up. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that patients with SMM and those with MM are more prone to develop various components of metabolic syndrome, and they stress the importance of following-up metabolic syndrome components in both groups of patients.
Hidden analyses: A review of reporting practice and recommendations for more transparent reporting of initial data analyses
Authors: Huebner Marianne , Vach Werner , Cessie Saskia le , Schmidt Carsten Oliver , Lusa Lara
Published: February 2020

Background In the data pipeline from the data collection process to the planned statistical analyses, initial data analysis (IDA) typically takes place between the end of the data collection and do not touch the research questions. A systematic process for IDA and clear reporting of the findings would help to understand the potential shortcomings of a dataset, such as missing values, or subgroups with small sample sizes, or shortcomings in the collection process, and to evaluate the impact of these shortcomings on the research results. A clear reporting of findings is also relevant when making datasets available to other researchers. Initial data analyses can provide valuable insights into the suitability of a data set for a future research study. Our aim was to describe the current practice of reporting of initial data analyses in observational studies in five highly ranked medical journals with focus on data cleaning, screening, and reporting of findings which led to a potential change in the analysis plan. Methods This review was carried out using systematic search strategies with eligibility criteria for articles to be reviewed. A total of 25 papers about observational studies were selected from five medical journals. Each paper was reviewed by two reviewers and IDA statements were further discussed by all authors. The consensus was reported. Results IDA statements were reported in the methods, results, discussion, and supplement of papers. Ten out of 25 papers (40%) included a statement about data cleaning. Data screening statements were included in all articles, and 18 (72%) indicated the methods used to describe them. Item missingness was reported in 11 papers (44%), unit missingness in 15 papers (60%). Eleven papers (44%) mentioned some changes in the analysis plan. Reported changes referred to missing data treatment, unexpected values, population heterogeneity and aspects related to variable distributions or data properties. Conclusion Reporting of initial data analyses were sparse, and statements on IDA were located throughout the research articles. There is a lack of systematic reporting of IDA. We conclude the article with recommendations on how to overcome shortcomings in the current practice of IDA reporting in observational studies.
The effect of simulation-based training in non-physician anesthetists in Tigray region, Ethiopia
Authors: Etanaa Naod Bulti , Benwu Kore Menjie , Gebremedhin Hagos Gebregzabiher , Desta Haftom Birhane
Published: February 2020

Objective : In Ethiopia simulation-based anesthesia education is a new way of teaching method which started in Mekelle University as of January, 2019. Hence, the purpose of this study is to evaluate whether simulation-based training improves non-physician anesthetists’ knowledge and attitude on maternal and neonatal anesthesia cares or not.
Results : Out of 50 study subjects, 66% had a working experience of less than 5 years.. Knowledge score improved significantly from 49.78% and 66.22% in pretest and posttest results respectively. The posttest result was significantly improved (P< 0.001) for all knowledge questions. The respondents were asked about a negative statement and a positive statement about the need to have effective closed lope communication, maternal resuscitation and neonatal resuscitation. The attitude score improved from 72.45% to 79.11% in pretest and posttest respectively. From the 9 questions the attitudinal mean score for pretest was 6.52 and posttest 7.12. The null hypothesis of equal knowledge and attitude was rejected, t (49) = -5.54, p < 0.001 and t (49) = -2.25, p < 0.03 respectively.
Hospital Managers Skills Required and Onward Challenges: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Moradi Farideh , Ziapour Arash , Abbas Jaffar , Baharirad Nadya , soroush ali
Published: February 2020

Background : The qualification of managers in terms of management skills is one of the most important factors in the continuous success of each organization and utilizing such skills can have a positive contribution in the effectiveness of the organization while improving the performance of the employees in line with the objectives and goals of the organization. The main objective of the current study was to explore the necessary skills and the challenges of hospital managers from the point of view of managers at different levels of a hospital. Methods: This study is a qualitative one where the statistical population includes the mid-level and senior-level managers of the hospital. The sample size was 22 individuals. The interviews were analyzed by a MAXQDA software application after transcription. Results This study includes 5 main themes and 15 secondary themes. The strategic skill, the perceptive skill, the human relation skill, work experience, and personal characteristics were among the skills necessary for hospital managers. Some of the challenges facing the hospital managers included rapid changes in the policies, the limitations of financial resources, and lack of proportion between the educational and occupational spheres. Conclusion: Because of their existential philosophy and differences with other service sectors, managing hospitals poses a particular sensitivity. In this regard, the role of the hospital manager is very important. Therefore, in order to meet the satisfaction of those receiving services, decision makers, and policy makers must think twice when selecting and appointing hospital managers and evaluate and appraise this group in terms of abilities and skills necessary for managing such an important service section.
Progestins counteract estrogens to shift breast cancer cells into a quiescent metabolic profile
Authors: Matthews Shawna , Fettig Lynsey M. , Ward Ashley V. , Finlay-Schultz Jessica , Kabos Peter , Jackman Matthew , MacLean Paul S. , Sartorius Carol A.
Published: February 2020

Background

Progestins generally suppress the growth of estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) positive breast cancers and are occasionally used as treatments. However, progestins also increase populations of therapy-resistant cancer stem cells. We speculated that the downstream effects of progestins on cell metabolism might help explain its unusual impact on cell phenotype. Thus, in this study we investigated how progestins, in the absence or presence of estrogens, affect cell metabolism in ER+PR+ breast cancer.

Methods

Metabolites were quantified and compared from ER+PR+ breast cancer cell lines T47D and UCD65 treated with vehicle, estrogen only, progestin only, or the combination using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Metabolic flux analysis was performed on cells given the same hormone treatments. Likewise, the influence of treatments on mitochondrial morphology was measured using transmission electron microscopy in cell lines and patient-derived xenograft tumors and mitochondrial-targeted GFP in cell lines. Mitochondrial biogenesis was measured via fluorescence shift in the photoconvertible MitoTimer reporter coupled with confocal microscopy, and biogenesis regulators were measured by qPCR. Select metabolites and ATP were measured using fluorometric assays.

Results

Estrogen plus progestin treatment largely reverses estrogen-stimulated metabolic activities in breast cancer cells including increased TCA cycle metabolites, amino acid metabolism, and glutathione metabolism. Addition of progestins to estrogen impaired mitochondrial oxygen consumption and ATP production of cancer cells. Moreover, while estrogen-treated cells had elongated mitochondrial morphology, progestin co-treatment resulted in a more aged and less elongated mitochondrial population. Notably, progestins blocked the estrogen-induced expression of mitochondrial biogenesis regulators PGC1α and PGC1β and their downstream targets. While progestin treatment reduced total intracellular amino acid and glutathione pools, a subpopulation of progestin-inducible cancer stem cells revealed a dependence on glutathione.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that progestins antagonize estrogen’s effects on cellular metabolism and shift cells to a more quiescent phenotype, with reduced mitochondrial functional capacity, more reliance on glycolysis, and increased cell survival traits. Our results have implications for current clinical studies testing selective PR modulators in ER+ breast cancers.
Assessment of dynamic balancing responses following perturbations during slow walking in relation to clinical outcome measures for high-functioning post-stroke subjects
Authors: Zadravec Matjaž , Olenšek Andrej , Rudolf Marko , Bizovičar Nataša , Goljar Nika , Matjacic Zlatko
Published: February 2020

Background: Generating appropriate balancing reactions in response to unexpected loss of balance during walking is important to prevent falls. The purpose of this study was to assess dynamic balancing responses following pushes to the pelvis in groups of post-stroke and healthy subjects. Methods: Forty-one post-stroke subjects and forty-three healthy subjects participated in the study. Dynamic balancing responses to perturbations triggered at heel strike of the left or right leg, directed in the forward, backward, inward and outward directions during slow treadmill walking were assessed. Responses of the healthy group provided reference values used to classify responses of the post-stroke group into two subgroups; one within the reference responses (“inside” subgroup) and the other that falls out (“outside” subgroup). A battery of selected clinical outcome measures (6-Minute Walk Test, 10-Meter Walk Test, Timed-Up-and-Go test, Four Square Step Test, Functional Gait Assessment, Functional Independence Measure and One-legged stance test) was assessed for the post-stroke group to examine whether any of these outcome measures could discriminate between both subgroups. Results: Both subgroups of stroke subjects were comparable in terms of clinical outcome measures but their capacity to react to unexpected loss of balance during walking differed considerably. The “inside” subgroup was able to appropriately modulate centre-of-pressure and ground-reaction-force both under the impaired and non-impaired leg. The “outside” subgroup showed limited modulation capacity under the impaired leg; their responses utilised a stepping strategy in which the non-impaired leg was placed such as to make a longer step (forward perturbation), to make a shorter step (backward perturbation) or to make a cross-step (outward perturbation). Consequently, peak centre-of-mass displacements following perturbations were significantly higher in the “outside” subgroup compared to the “inside” subgroup. Responses in both subgroups following inward perturbations did not differ considerably. One-legged stance test showed the largest potential to discriminate between both subgroups of stroke subjects. Conclusions: The One-legged stance test could be used to obtain an indication of the abilities of each particular post-stroke subject to counteract an unexpected loss of balance. This may be relevant in clinical practice for the identification of post-stroke subjects who could benefit from perturbation-based training.
Distribution of 31 endocrine disrupting compounds in the Taihu Lake and application of the fish plasma model
Authors: Bao Yifan , Huang Wenping , Xialin Hu , Yin Daqiang
Published: February 2020

Background: The successful application of Fish plasma model (FPM) will greatly simplify the risk assessment of drugs. At present, the FPM has been applied to the risk assessment of several human drugs with high hydrophobicity. However, its applicability to a wide variety of compounds needs to be tested. Filed work about distribution characteristics of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) in water and in fish plasma plays a key role in promoting the successful application of FPM. However, there are few reports on the distribution of EDCs in fish, especially in wild fish plasma. Results: The distribution of 31 EDCs, including seven estrogens, eight androgens, six progesterones, five glucocorticoids and five industrial compounds, in water and in plasma of five categories of wild fishes in Taihu Lake was studied and the typical FPM was tested by the field data. The detected concentration of most compounds is relatively low (< 10 ng/L), and the industrial compounds are the predominant pollutants with the highest concentration up to 291.7 ng/L (Bisphenol A) in water. In general, glucocorticoids were detected at highest concentrations in plasma of all kinds of fishes, followed by industrial compounds and estrogens. Except for glucocorticoids (up to 43.61 for Cortisone), the average concentrations of other four categories of EDCs in fish plasma were generally low (< 10 μ g / L). The available measured bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) of 20 kinds of EDCs were in the range of 0 to 5626. The bioaccumulation of EDCs in fish plasma is not only hydrophobicity dependent, and it is both fish species-specific and compound-dependent. The classical FPM was tested and the results indicated that the good coincide of measured logBAFs and the theoretical logBCFs was only observed for limited EDCs (7 out of 20). The present available FPM generally underestimated the LogBAFs of most hydrophilic EDCs (logKow <3.87, 11 out of 20) whereas overestimated the LogBAFs of several high hydrophobic EDCs (LogKow >3.87) in fish plasma. Conclusion：Although the present FPM is barely satisfactory, it is still promising for predicating the accumulation of EDCs in fish plasma and for further environmental risk assessment.
Cost-effectiveness of a proportionate universal offer of free exercise: Leeds Let’s Get Active
Authors: Candio Paolo , Meads David , Hill Andrew J. , Bojke Laura
Published: February 2020

Objectives To assess the cost-effectiveness of a proportionate universal programme to reduce physical inactivity (Leeds Let’s Get Active) in adults. Methods A continuous-time Markov chain model was developed to assess the cost implications and QALY gains associated with increases in physical activity levels across the adult population. An ordered logistic model was specified to estimate the effectiveness of the Leeds Let’s Get Active programme and derive transition probabilities between physical activity categories. A parametric survival analysis approach was applied to estimate the decay of intervention effect over time. Baseline model data were obtained from previous economic models, population-based surveys and other published literature. A cost-utility analysis was conducted from a health care sector perspective over the programme duration (39 months). Scenario and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of cost-effectiveness results. Results 51,874 adult residents registered to the programme and provided baseline data, 19.5% of which were living in deprived areas. Under base case assumptions, Leeds Let’s Get Active was found to be likely to be cost-effective. However, variations in key structural assumptions showed sensitivity of the results. Conclusions Evidence from this study suggests that a universal offer of access to free off-peak leisure centre-based exercise that targets hard to reach groups can provide good value for money. Further data collection is needed to reduce the uncertainty surrounding the decision.
Plasmonic random laser biosensor on fiber facet for label-free detecting biomolecules
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Ge Kun , Tong Junhua , Zhai Tianrui
Published: February 2020

Low-cost and miniaturized biosensors are key factors leading to the possibility of portable and integrated biomedical system, which play an important role in clinical medicine and life sciences. Random lasers with simple structures provide opportunities for detecting biomolecules. Here, a low-cost biosensors on fiber facet for label-free detecting biomolecules is demonstrated resorting to plasmonic random laser. The random laser is achieved resorting to a random plasmonic scattering structure of Ag nanoparticles and polymer film on fiber facet. Refractive index sensitivity and near-surface sensitivity of the biosensor are systematically studied. Furthermore, the biosensor is used to detect lgG through specific binding to protein A , exhibiting the detecting limit of 0.68 nM. It is believed that this work may promote the applications of plasmonic random laser bio-probe in portable or integrated medical diagnostic platforms, and provide fundamental understanding for the life science.
Coagulopathy on the first postoperative day predicting the long-term survival of traumatic brain injury patients
Authors: Cui Wenxing , Ge Shunnan , Shi Yingwu , Wu Xun , Luo Jianing , Feng Dayun , Zhu Gang , Wang Bao , Guo Hao , Liu Haixiao , Qu Yan
Published: February 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between coagulopathy during the perioperative period (before the operation and on the first day after the operation) and the long-term survival of TBI patients undergoing surgery, as well as to explore the predisposing risk factors that may cause perioperative coagulopathy.Methods: This retrospective study included 447 TBI patients who underwent surgery from January 1, 2015 to April 25, 2019. Clinical parameters, including patient demographic characteristics, biochemical tests, perioperative coagulation function tests (before the operation and on the first day after the operation) and intraoperative factors were collected. Log-rank univariate analysis and Cox regression models were conducted to assess the relationship between perioperative coagulopathy and the long-term survival of TBI patients. Furthermore, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the underlying risk factors for perioperative coagulopathy.Results: Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified age, AIS(head) = 5, GCS ≤ 8, systolic pressure at admission < 90 mmHg and postoperative coagulopathy (all P < 0.05) as independent risk factors for survival following TBI; we were the first to identify postoperative coagulopathy as an independent risk factor. According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, for the first time, abnormal ALT and RBC at admission, preoperative coagulopathy, infusion of colloidal solution > 1100 mL and intraoperative bleeding > 950 mL (all P < 0.005) were identified as independent risk factors for postoperative coagulation following surgery after TBI.Conclusions: Those who suffered from postoperative coagulopathy due to TBI had a higher hazard for poor prognosis than those who did not. Closer attention should be paid to postoperative coagulopathy and more emphasis should be placed on managing the underlying risk factors.
The Impact of Intervention on Survival of Elderly Patients with Gastric Cancer at IV Stage: A SEER Population-Based Study.
Authors: Cao Bo , Liang Wenquan , Zhang Wang , Wang Chuang , Shi Yajiao , Zhou Xin , Wei Bo
Published: February 2020

Background The selection of therapeutic regimens for elderly patients with gastric cancer (GC) has attracted much attention. However, few clinical trials have been conducted concerning the subpopulation of patients diagnosed with stage IV disease. In this study, cases from the Surveillance, Epidemiologic and End Results (SEER) database were collected to investigate the effects of surgery and chemotherapy (CT) on the survival benefit in elderly GC patients with stage IV disease. Methods GC patients aged >65 years diagnosed with stage IV disease between 1973 and 2014 in the SEER database were included in the study pool based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to determine prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of different intervention methods on OS and CSS. Results A total of 9,306 patients were selected from the SEER database. The results showed that patients who received both surgery and chemotherapy significantly obtained OS and CSS benefits (P < 0.0001). Compared with the no surgery and CT group, the CT alone group (P < 0.0001) and the surgery alone group (P < 0.0001) had prolonged survival time. Furthermore, age and grade stratifications served as important indicators for the selection of therapeutic regimens Conclusions Surgery combined with CT outperformed monotherapy or no therapy strategies for elderly patients with stage IV disease.
FluA-p score: a novel prediction rule for mortality in influenza A-related pneumonia patients
Authors: Chen Liang , Han Xiudi , Li YanLi , Zhang Chunxiao , Xing Xiqian
Published: February 2020

Background The pneumonia severity index (PSI) and the CURB-65 (confusion, urea, respiratory rate, blood pressure, age ≥ 65 years) score have been shown to predict mortality in community-acquired pneumonia. Their ability to predict influenza-related pneumonia, however, is less well-established. Methods A total of 693 laboratory-confirmed FluA-p patients diagnosed between Jan 2013 and Dec 2018 and recruited from five teaching hospitals in China were included in the study. The sample included 494 patients in the derivation cohort and 199 patients in the validation cohort. The prediction rule was established based on independent risk factors for 30-day mortality in FluA-p patients from the derivation cohort. Results The 30-day mortality of FluA-p patients was 19.6% (136/693). The FluA-p score was based on a multivariate logistic regression model designed to predict mortality. Results indicated the following significant predictors (regression statistics and point contributions toward total score in parentheses): blood urea nitrogen > 7 mmol/L ( OR 1.604, 95% CI 1.150-4.492, p = 0.040; 1 points), pO 2 /F i O 2 ≤ 250 mmHg ( OR 2.649, 95% CI 1.103-5.142, p = 0.022; 2 points), cardiovascular disease ( OR 3.967, 95% CI 1.269-7.322, p <0.001; 3 points), arterial PH < 7.35 ( OR 3.959, 95% CI 1.393-7.332, p < 0.001; 3 points), smoking history ( OR 5.176, 95% CI 2.604-11.838, p = 0.001; 4 points), lymphocytes < 0.8×10 9 /L ( OR 8.391, 95% CI 3.271-16.212, p <0.001; 5 points), and early neurominidase inhibitor therapy ( OR 0.567, 95% CI 0.202-0.833, p = 0.005; -2 points). Seven points was used as the cut-off value for mortality risk stratification. The model showed a sensitivity of 0.941, a specificity of 0.762, and overall better predictive performance than the PSI risk class (AUROC = 0.908 vs 0.560, p < 0.001) and the CURB-65 score (AUROC = 0.908 vs 0.777, p < 0.001). Conclusions Our results showed that a FluA-p score was easy to derive and that it served as a reliable prediction rule for 30-day mortality in FluA-p patients. The score could also effectively stratify FluA-p patients into relevant risk categories and thereby help treatment providers to make more rational clinical decisions.
LOXL1 modulates the malignant progression of colorectal cancer by inhibiting the transcriptional activity of YAP
Authors: Hu Lin , Wang Jing , Wang Yunliang , Wu Linpeng , Wu Chao , Mao Bo , E. Maruthi Prasad , Wang Yuhong , Chin Y. Eugene
Published: February 2020

Background LOX-like 1 (LOXL1), as a lysyl oxidase, emerging evidences revealed the effect in cancer malignant progression. However, its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) and the underlying molecular mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. Methods LOXL1 expression in colorectal cancer was detected by immunohistochemistry, western blot and real-time PCR. In vitro , colony formation assay, wound healing assay, migration and invasion experiment were performed to investigate the effects of LOXL1 in cell proliferation, migration and invasion, respectively. In vivo , metastasis models and mouse xenograft were used to determine tumorigenicity and metastasis ability. Molecular biology experiments were utilized to reveal the underlying mechanisms of LOXL1 modulating Hippo pathway. Results LOXL1 is highly expressed in normal colon tissues compared with cancer tissues. In vitro, Silencing LOXL1 in CRC cell lines dramatically enhanced migration, invasion, and colony formation, while overexpression of LOXL1 manifested the opposite effects. Results of the in vivo experiments demonstrated that the enforced expression of LOXL1 in CRC cell lines had drastically inhibited the progression of metastasis and tumour growth. Mechanistically, LOXL1 inhibited the transcriptional activity of Yes-associated protein (YAP) was through interaction with MST1/2 and increasing the phosphorylation of MST1/2. Conclusions LOXL1 may function as an important tumour suppressor in regulating tumour growth, invasion and metastasis via negative regulating of YAP activity.
The association between dietary total antioxidant capacity and glioma among Iranian adults
Authors: Heydari Marzieh , Shayanfar Mehdi , Sharifi Giuve , Saneei Parvane , Sadeghi Omid , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad
Published: February 2020

Background: Dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) has been investigated in relation to different types of cancer. However, data on the link between dietary TAC and glioma are scarce and conflicting. We assessed the relation between dietary TAC and risk of glioma among Iranian adults.
Methods: This investigation was a hospital-based case-control study that was done in Tehran between November 2009 and September 2011. Cases were individuals with pathologically confirmed glioma that were diagnosed during the last month (n=128). Controls were individuals, aged between 20 and 75 years, who were hospitalized or were outpatients referred to other wards of the same hospitals (n=256). Usual dietary intakes of participants during the preceding year were examined using a food frequency questionnaire. Data on dietary TAC from foods was gathered from published databases that provided the antioxidant capacity for each food item, measured by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP).
Results: Mean age of study participants in case and control groups was 43.4 and 42.7 y, respectively. Compared with participants in the lowest quartile, those in the highest quartile of dietary TAC had a lower odds of glioma (OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.15-0.45). This association was strengthened when potential confounders were taken into account (OR: 0.13; 95% CI: 0.05-0.35). Such inverse association was also seen for men (OR: 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01-0.19), but not for women. Furthermore, significant inverse associations were seen between dietary intakes of vitamin C (OR for Q4 vs. Q1: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05-0.36; P-trend<0.01), vitamin B6 (OR for Q4 vs. Q1: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13-0.97; P-trend=0.02) and β-carotene (OR for Q3 vs. Q1: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.19-0.98; P-trend=0.57) and glioma, after controlling for potential covariates. Conclusion: We found that dietary TAC as well as dietary intake of vitamin C, vitamin B6 and β-carotene was inversely associated with odds of glioma in Iranian adults.
Indicators of a healthy dietary pattern among adolescents -A cross-sectional study from 2009 until 2015
Authors: Tell Maria Norburg , Hedin Katarina , Nilsson Mats , Golsäter Marie , Lingfors Hans
Published: February 2020

BackgroundDietary pattern early in life is to some degree preserved into adulthood and may have implications for future health. There is scarce knowledge on associations between choices of certain foods among adolescents. The aim of this study was to explore how intakes of different food groups, correspond to each other from a health perspective among adolescents. MethodsThis cross-sectional study used data from 16-year-olds (n=13 451), who completed a health questionnaire within School Health Services from 2009 until 2015, in a county from Southern Sweden. Dietary pattern based on the response-alternatives from the ten items regarding intake of food and food frequency intake were grouped as healthy, moderately healthy, and unhealthy intakes, based on Nordic Nutrition Recommendations. ResultsIn the student cohort healthy reported intakes of different healthy food groups were closely connected to each other. Association between intakes of certain food groups were seen. High intake of fish, vegetables and fruit were associated to each other, as well as low intake of sweet drinks, sweets and snacks. The highest association was seen between high intake of fruit and high intake of vegetables, with OR=23 (95% CI 12 to 44).ConclusionHealthy food intakes were associated with each other among 16-year-old adolescents; High intake of fruit and vegetables could serve as a key indicator for a healthy dietary pattern in this age group. This knowledge increases the understanding of food patterns among adolescents and can be used for designing interventions. It also raises a hypothesis that focusing on offering healthy foods, more than restricting unhealthy foods could have a positive impact on the dietary pattern.
Development of the Other As Shamer scale Japanese version using Item Response Theory
Authors: Hiramatsu Yoichi , Asano Kenichi , Kotera Yasuhiro , Sensui Toshihiko , Endo Ayumu , Shimizu Eiji , Basran Jaskaran , Goss Ken
Published: February 2020

Objective; External shame is reflective of a person’s anxiety that he or she might be rejected by others. The Other As Shamer Scale (OAS) is a scale for assessing external shame. The Japanese version of OAS was developed, and its reliability and validity were examined using Item Response Theory (IRT). Results; A questionnaire survey was conducted with university students (N=199). Exploratory factor analysis of the results indicated a significantly high factor loading on the first factor, which was identical to the original version of the scale, as well as high internal consistency. Moreover, results confirmed that each item had adequate discrimination and information levels, suggesting that external shame could be discriminated with high accuracy with a wide range between relatively low and relatively high external shame groups. These results suggested that this scale could be used for screening external shame as a stress factor and for assessing intervention effects.
Altered Gut Microbiota in Infants is Associated with Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease Severity
Authors: Harding Jeffrey , Siefker David , Vu Luan , You Dahui , Devincenzo John , Pierre Joseph , Cormier Stephania A
Published: February 2020

RationaleRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the number one cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants. There are still no vaccines or specific antiviral therapies against RSV, mainly due to the inadequate understanding of RSV pathogenesis. Recent data suggest a role for gut microbiota community structure in determining RSV disease severity.ObjectivesOur objective was to determine the gut microbial profile associated with severe RSV patients, which could be used to help identify at-risk patients and develop therapeutically protective microbial assemblages that may stimulate immuno-protection.MethodsWe enrolled 58 infants hospitalized with RSV, all were admitted to the pediatric ward. 53 remained in the pediatric ward (moderate) and 5 were moved to the pediatric intensive care unit at a later date (severe). We also enrolled 37 healthy infants during their “well-baby checkups” from 2012 to 2015. We evaluated the composition of gut microbiota from stool samples collected within 72 hours of enrollment via 16s sequencing of fecal DNA.Measurements and Main ResultsThere was a significant enrichment in S24_7, Clostridiales, Odoribacteraceae, Lactobacillaceae, and Actinomyces in RSV (moderate and severe) vs. controls. Patients with severe RSV disease had slightly lower alpha diversity (richness and evenness of the bacterial community) of the gut microbiota compared to patients with moderate RSV and healthy controls. Beta diversity (overall microbial composition) was significantly different between all RSV patients (moderate and severe) compared to controls and had significant microbial composition separating all three groups (control, moderate RSV, and severe RSV).ConclusionsCollectively, these data demonstrate that a unique gut microbial profile is associated with severe RSV disease prior to admission to the pediatric intensive care unit. More mechanistic experiments are needed to determine whether the differences observed in gut microbiota are the cause or consequences of severe RSV disease.
Study on Functional Monoclonal Antibodies of Anti-Human Uterine Sarcoma Stem Cell-Like CellsStudy on Functional Monoclonal Antibodies of Anti-Human Uterine Sarcoma Stem Cell-Like Cells
Authors: Gao Jiuping , Zhang Beilei , Tang Dihong , Gao Ting , Lin Qiuhui , Tang jun , Chu Chaonan , Yang Ting , Wang Jing , Cai Jingting , Wang Jing
Published: February 2020

Background: To establish a functional monoclonal antibody library using Human Uterine Sarcoma Stem Cell-Like Cells (HUSSLCs) to screen and identify functional monoclonal antibodies that can recognize and inhibit HUSSLCs.Methods: B lymphocytes in proliferative state were prepared by using the second generation CD133+spheroid cells of SK-UT-1 cell line, i.e. HUSSLCs, as antigens; Spheroid formation, agar colony formation, wound healing, flow cytometry, and Western blotting were adopted to detect the effect of monoclonal antibodies with varied dilution ratios on HUSSLCs spheroid formation, agar colony formation, cell migration, CD133 expression, and expression of CD44, ABCG2, Bmi1, Nanog, Oct4 and ALDH1.Results: Myeloma cells of SP2/0 cell line can achieve 85% degrees of fusion and results of 1-2F monoclonal cell supernatants with different dilution ratios reduced HUSSLCs spheroid formation rate, agar colony formation rate, cell migration rate, CD133 positive cell expression and protein expression levels of CD44, ABCG2, Bmi1, Nanog, Oct4, and ALDH1 in concentration-dependent manner (P <0.05).Conclusion: The antibody valence produced by HUSSLCs-immunized mice reached the requirement for preparation of monoclonal antibody. Anti-HUSSLCs monoclonal antibodies feature functions of inhibiting the self-renewal, unrestricted proliferation, migration, invasion and multidrug resistance of HUSSLCs and functions characterized by tumor stem cells.