bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive values of ANGPTL8 on risk of all-cause mortality in diabetic patients: from the REACTION Study
Authors: Zou Huajie , Chen Xi , Li Danpei , Li Wenjun , Xie Junhui , Shao Shiying , Yu Xuefeng
Published: April 2020

Background: ANGPTL8, an important regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism, is increased in diabetes and associated with insulin resistance. However, the role of ANGPTL8 in diabetes outcomes remains unclear. The study aimed to investigate circulating levels of ANGPTL8 in participants with and without diabetes and its potential association with death and ﻿cardiovascular and renal outcomes in a 5-year cohort study.Methods: Propensity-matched cohorts of subjects with and without diabetes from the ﻿Risk Evaluation of Cancers in Chinese Diabetic Individuals: A longitudinal (REACTION) study was generated on the basis of age, sex and body mass index at baseline. The primary outcome was death from any cause. The secondary outcome was ﻿a composite of new-onset major adverse cardiovascular events, hospitalization for heart failure and ﻿renal dysfunction (eGFR < 60/min/1.73 m2).Results: We identified 769 matched pairs of patients from the diabetes group and the control group. Serum ANGPTL8 levels were elevated in patients with diabetes compared to subjects in the control group﻿ (618.82 318.08 vs. 581.20 299.54, p = 0.03). Furthermore, increasing quartiles of ANGPTL8 were associated with increased all-cause mortality in both the control and diabetes groups (all p values < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that ﻿elevated ANGPTL8 levels were associated with greater risk ratios (RRs) of death (RR in quartile 4 vs quartile 1, 3.47; 95% CI 1.30 – 9.29) and renal dysfunction (RR in quartile 4 vs quartile 1, 10.50; 95% CI 1.32 – 83.60) only in diabetic patients. Multivariable-adjusted restricted cubic spline analyses suggested a significant linear ﻿relationship between ANGPTL8 and all-cause mortality in diabetic patients (p for nonlinear trend = 0.99, p for linear trend = 0.01) but not in the controls (p for nonlinear trend = 0.26, p for linear trend = 0.80). According to the ROC curves, the QMortality and QFrailty scores, combined with ANGPTL8, showed better performance in predicting death, especially in diabetic patients.Conclusion: Serum ANGPTL8 levels were associated with an increased risk for all-cause mortality and renal dysfunction in subjects with diabetes. Furthermore, ANGPTL8 had good performance in predicting all-cause mortality in diabetic patients, which may contribute to the early detection of individuals with diabetes at high risk.
Landslide susceptibility mapping using GIS and Remote Sensing: A case study of the Rangamati District, Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Afruja , Islam Md Shofiqul , Hasan Md. Muyeed
Published: April 2020

The landslide is a natural phenomenon and one of the most commonplace disasters in the Rangamati Hill tract area which appeals for better forecasting and specify the landslide susceptible zonation. This research work examines the application of GIS and Remote Sensing techniques based on different parameters such as altitude, slope angle, slope aspect, rainfall, land-use land-cover (LULC), geology and stream distance by heuristic model to identify the landslide susceptible zones for the study area. Among the parameters, rainfall, steep slope, geology and LULC are the dominant factor that triggering the landslide. Clayey or silty soils of the study area during heavy and prolong rainfall behave a flow of debris due to water pressure within the soil, resulting landslides. Steep slope has greater influences for weather zones of the rock-masses for susceptible landslides. Result and field observation indicate that the population density and LULC has a vital effect on landslide within the study area. However, landslide susceptible zones were created based on the susceptibility map of the study area which shows that about 19.43% of the area are at low susceptible zone, 56.55% of the area are at medium susceptible zone, 19.19% of the area are in the high susceptible zone and 4.81% of the area is at the very high susceptible zone.
Lower expression of the RASSF10 gene induces myeloma cell proliferation due to hypermethylation of the gene promoter in multiple myeloma
Authors: Chen Jin , Liu Hui , Liu Zhaoyun , Shao Qing , Jiang Fengjuan , Yan Siyang , Li Lijuan , Song Jia , Ding Kai , Fu Rong
Published: April 2020

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable malignant neoplasm of plasma cells, in which genetic defects, epigenetic aberrations and bone marrow microenvironment are involved in the pathogenesis. RASSF10 acts as a tumor suppressor gene by methylation in glioma and several other cancers, but its role in MM remains unknown.
Methods

In order to explore the role of RASSF10, mRNA expression was detected in MM patients and analyzed with overall survival.
Results

Expression of the RASSF10 gene significantly decreased in newly diagnosed MM patients, and was positively correlated with overall survival. RPMI-8226 and OPM-2 cell lines with lower RASSF10 expression were selected for further study. Overexpression of RASSF10 in these two cell lines inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis. The RASSF10 gene promoter in MM cell lines was hypermethylated, and downregulated after decitabine treatment. Meanwhile, expression of the RASSF10 gene was upregulated. MM cells with overexpression of RASSF10 were injected into nude mice and exerted anti-MM activity in vivo.
Conclusions

Low expression of RASSF10 contributed to the proliferation of myeloma cells by hypermethylation of its promoter.
Assessment of sleep disorders in military personnel under special military environments
Authors: Li Bozhi , Zhang Ying , Wang Gui yao , Liu Qing yuan , Zhang Xi
Published: April 2020

The authors have removed this preprint from Research Square.
Phylogenetic analysis and In silico Screening of drug targets for ACE2 in Human and Spike Glycoprotein in Sars-CoV-2 for control of COVID19
Authors: Dowluru Kaladhar SVGK , Rao Krothapalli. R. S. Sambasiva
Published: April 2020

Coronaviruses are the large group of infectious viruses that affect the respiratory tract and damages lungs. Large part to early Chinese efforts to genome sequencing of Sars-CoV-2, the virus that causes the Covid-19 disease, shared in early January 2020. The sequences from Wuhan seafood market pneumonia virus had different point mutations and are showing non-conserved patterns in between sequences from different regions of world. The present experimentation has shown that bioactive compounds like Nimbin present in Neem plant and Amlaic acid present in Amla are shown as best in the control COVID19. The bioactive compounds like Vitexin present in Bermuda grass and Curcumin present in turmeric powder were also shown good results. Hence usage of Neem, Amla, Bermuda grass and turmeric can boosts immunity and control COVID19. In anti-viral compounds, Remdesivir was found best and effective drug. Lopinavir also find effective drug next to Remdesivir. Hence in higher conditions, combination of remdesivir and lopinavir may be the best way of treatment for COVID19 patients. As antiviral compounds have side effects, Nimbin, Amlaic acid, Vitexin or Curcumin may be better molecules in the treatment of COVID19.
Analysis and research of wireless network simulation technology in swimming sports mechanics
Authors: Xu Zhiwen
Published: April 2020

In order to improve the quantitative teaching level of swimming sports, it is necessary to carry out quantitative analysis of swimming sports mechanics. A method of swimming mechanics analysis based on computer simulation technology is proposed. The ARMA model is used to analyze the mechanics of the limb movement of swimming, the Lagrange dynamics model is used to model the characteristics of the mechanics of swimming movement, and the distributed characteristic parameter model of the dynamics of swimming is analyzed in the space of six degrees of freedom. The dynamic distribution space of swimming motion is obtained by using the forward kinematics analysis model, and the inverse kinematics of multiple degrees of freedom is solved by analytic method, and the global and local joint force and force parameters in swimming are estimated. The model of swimming mechanics is realized. The simulation results show that the proposed method is accurate and accurate in estimating the mechanical parameters of swimming movement, and it can effectively guide swimming training.
The lipid Status and linear relationship between TC and TG in Glycogen Storage Disease Ia
Authors: Zhang Zhenjie , Yuan Yuheng , Ma Mingsheng , Hong Yuehui , Sun Zhixing , Zhang Mengqi , Qiu Zhengqing
Published: April 2020

Background

Glycogen storage disease type I(GSDI) is a glucose metabolic disorder caused by glucose-6-phosphatase deficiency. GSDIa patients are characterized by hypoglycemia, hepatomegaly, hyperlipidemia and lactic acidemia. This study aims to review the lipid status in patients with GSDIa, explores the lipid treatment targets and preferable lipid-lowering drugs.
Methods

The clinical data of GSDIa patients characteristics were collected. Diet control, raw cornstarch were used to maintain normal blood glucose and lipid level. Some patients were given lipid-lowering drugs. We compared the lipid levels before and after each treatment.
Results

A total of 163 GSDIa patients were enrolled in this study and 773 times of lipid levels were detected. TG was normal in only 13 times of detection from 10 patients(2%). There were 26 patients who took atorvastatin or fibrates (fenofibrate or gemfibrozil) regularly for more than one year. The lipid levels could be improved after lipid-lowering drugs treatment. The therapeutic effect of atorvastatin was better than fibrates. The total cholesterol(TC) was positively correlated with total triglycerides(TG) after treatment. A regression equation was established for TC and TG, TG=-2.86 + 1.63TC. The complication of hyperlipidemia was mainly caused by TC. As long as TC maintained normal, TG did not have to be maintained normal and a certain degree of hypertriglyceridemia can be accepted. The lower bound of China Children's TC abnormal level (5.18 mmol/L) was substituted into the established regression equation to obtain TG = 5.58 mmol/L. We set a target that when the TG level was lower than 5.58 mmol / L after treatment, TC could maintain normally. There was no need for further increasing the dosage of lipid-lowering drug.
Conclusion

Patients with GSDIa had significant abnormalities in blood lipid metabolism. We found that there was a linear correlation between TC and TG, which was TG=-2.86 + 1.63*TC. We made a point that as long as the TC remained normal, a certain degree of hypertriglyceridemia could be accepted. We set a target that when the TG level was lower than 5.58 mmol / L after treatment, TC could maintain normally. This study found that the therapeutic effect of atorvastatin was better than fibrates.
Add-on effect of postural instructions to abdominopelvic exercise on urinary symptoms in climacteric women with stress urinary incontinence: A pilot randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Aparicio Laura Fuentes , Bernat Merce Balasch i , Bueno Laura López
Published: April 2020

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to investigate the add-on effect of postural instructions to an abdominopelvic exercise program on urinary symptoms and QoL in perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI).MethodsA randomized controlled trial was performed with a total of 40 perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal women with SUI aged between 46 and 75 years old. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: a group performing an abdominopelvic exercise program (AEP) (n = 20) and a group performing abdominopelvic exercise with the addition of postural instructions (AEPPI) (n = 20). Primary outcome measures were UI symptoms, UI impact and QoL, measured by 48 h Pad Test and ICIQ-UI-SF, which were assessed at baseline, post-intervention and 3 months follow-up. Secondary outcome was patient’s satisfaction measured by VAS scale only after the intervention.ResultsBetween-groups differences were observed in terms of ICIQ-UI-SF scores inmediately after intervention. Within-groups differences were observed between baseline to 3 months follow-up and between post-intervention to 3 months follow-up in AEPPI group (p < 0.05) for ICIQ-UI-SF and UI impact. UI symptoms were improved in both groups between baseline to 3-months follow-up (p < 0.05). Patient’s satisfaction was higher in AEPPI group (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe addition of postural instructions to an abdominopelvic exercise program improves QoL and patients’ satisfaction in women with SUI.Trial registrationThis study was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT03727945, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03727945
Number of parity/live birth(s) and cardiovascular disease among Iranian women and men: Results of over 15 years of follow-up.
Authors: Moazzeni Seyyed Saeed , Toreyhi Hoseein , Asgari Samaneh , Azizi Fereidoun , Tehrani Fahimeh Ramezani , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: April 2020

Background
Most previous studies, conducted in non-Middle Eastern populations, have suggested that increase in the number of parity/live birth(s) leads to cardiovascular disease (CVD) development, although this issue is still controversial among both sexes. Biologic and socioeconomic pathways were suggested to explain this association. We studied this issue among urban Iranian men and women.
Methods
In this population-based cohort study, included 3929 women and 2571 men aged ≥ 30 years, Data for number of parity/live birth(s) were obtained by standard questionnaire. Participants were then annually followed for CVD events. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the number of parity/live birth(s) and other traditional CVD risk factors.
Results
During more than 15 years of follow-up, 456 and 524 CVD events have occurred among women and men, respectively. Among women, a J-shaped association was found between the number of live births and incident CVD with the lowest risk for women with 2 live births. Among women in multivariate analyses, each unit increase in parity had a HR of 1.05 (CI: 1.01–1.10) and having ≥ 4 parities was associated with a HR of 1.86 (0.97–3.56, p-value = 0.061). Among men, in comparison with participants who had 1 child, multivariate HRs of having 2, 3 and ≥ 4 children were 1.97 (1.24–3.12), 2.08 (1.31–3.31) and 2.08 (1.30–3.34), respectively.
Conclusion
To the best of our knowledge, the current study is the first report of this issue in the Middle East and North Africa region, a region with high burden of CVD. It can now be suggested that the number of parity/live birth(s) is linked to CVD among the Iranian population, with this issue being more prominent among men. Further research is needed to support our results and clarify the pathways between the number of parity/live birth(s) and CVD development among Iranian populations by considering potential factors, especially psycho-socio-economic factors.
From Dyad to Triad: a Survey on Fathers’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Breastfeeding
Authors: Crippa Beatrice Letizia , Consales Alessandra , Morniroli Daniela , Lunetto Flavia , Bettinelli Maria Enrica , Sannino Patrizio , Rampini Serena , Zanotta Lidia , Marchisio Paola , Mosca Fabio , Plevani Laura , Giannì Maria Lorella , Colombo Lorenzo
Published: April 2020

Background
Maternal social support has a critical impact on breastfeeding outcomes. Fathers in particular are known to be especially influential. However, little is known about what they know and how they feel about breastfeeding. We aimed to explore paternal knowledge and attitude toward breastfeeding and possible association with breastfeeding rates at discharge.
Methods
We enrolled fathers of healthy term neonates born at our hospital from March to May 2019. At discharge, a self-administered structured questionnaire was proposed to fathers. Fathers were required to rate their degree of agreement to 12 items on a 5-point Likert scale. A total score was obtained from their answers. Subjects’ basic characteristics and mode of feeding at discharge were collected.
Results
Fathers showed a generally solid knowledge of maternal (87%) and neonatal (98%) benefits of breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact (99.5%), rooming-in practice (79%) and responsive feeding (67.5%); conversely, only 51% of them knew about the recommended use of pacifiers. Fathers felt personally involved in their babies’ feeding in 79% of cases, regardless of type of feeding. A positive correlation was found between total score and exclusive breastfeeding rates at discharge (p = 0.04, OR 1.07; 95%C.I 1.002–1.152). ROC analysis showed a trend toward statistical significance (AUC 0.58, p = 0.083, 95%C.I 0.485–0.683).
Conclusions
This study underlines the importance of including fathers in the promotion of breastfeeding, expanding the classic mother-baby dyad to a more modern mother-father-baby triad. This may ultimately impact breastfeeding outcomes, although further studies are needed to confirm our results.
Prognostic impact of the prognostic nutritional index in cases of resected oral squamous cell carcinoma: a retrospective study
Authors: Abe Atsushi , Hayashi Hiroki , Ishihama Takanori , Furuta Hiroshi
Published: April 2020

Background
The systemic inflammatory response and nutritional status of the patients are related to postoperative results in malignant tumors. We examined the usefulness of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) as a prognostic factor in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma who underwent radical surgery.
Methods
From 2008 to 2019, 102 patients (73 males, 29 females, age, 65.6 ± 9.8 years) who visited our hospital and underwent surgical therapy were included in this study. The endpoint was the total survival period, and the evaluation items included the lymphocyte count and albumin levels in the peripheral blood obtained within 4 weeks preoperatively, as well as age, sex, alcohol consumption and smoking history, site of the tumor, pathological stage, and surgery status. The PNI was calculated using serum albumin levels and the peripheral blood lymphocyte count. The relationships between the PNI and patient characteristics were analyzed using Fisher's exact test. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to evaluate the survival rate. The survival periods were compared using the log-rank method. We evaluated the prognostic factors for the overall survival (OS) in a logistic regression model.
Results
The tumor sites included the maxilla (n = 12), buccal mucosa (n = 11), mandible (n = 17), floor of the mouth (n = 9), and tongue (n = 53). The number of patients with stage I, II, III, and IV oral cancers was 28 (27.5%), 34 (27.5%), 26 (33.3%), and 14 (13.7%), respectively. During the observation period, 21 patients died of head and neck cancer. The optimal cut-off PNI value was 42.9 (range: 38.8–49.4) according to the receiver operating characteristic analysis. The proportion of patients with a short OS was lower in those with PNI higher than 42.9, and the 5-year OS in patients with PNI higher and lower than the cut-off value was 62.3% and 86.0%, respectively (P = 0.0105).
Conclusions
The OS of patients with PNI ≤ 42.9 was lower than that of patients with PNI greater than 42.9. The PNI, which is a preoperative head-to-foot inflammatory marker, can help estimate the prognosis of oral cancer.
Effect of uncontrolled type-2 diabetes mellitus on the periodontal status of Saudi Arabian adults: A case-control study
Authors: Quadri Mir Faeq Ali , Fageeh Hammam , Ibraheem Wael , Inamdar Aadil , Jessani Abbas
Published: April 2020

Background

The relationship between uncontrolled type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and periodontitis have been investigated among people from different nations. But, the current report is first from Saudi Arabia that utilized the gold standard measures to study the effect of uncontrolled T2DM on the periodontal status of ethnically similar Arab adults.
Methods

A case-control study was conducted, wherein cases were adults with clinically diagnosed periodontitis (clinical-attachment-loss ≥ 1 mm). Concurrent controls were recruited from the same dental facility; matched with age, sex, and location. Uncontrolled T2DM was recorded using HbA1c readings; and other health conditions including hypertension, epilepsy, bronchitis, thyroid disorders, and arthritis were retrieved from the participant’s medical records. Data on tobacco consumption and related products (smoking, khat/qat, sheesha, shammah) was gathered using a self-perceived questionnaire. Frequencies, percentages, p-values, crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were computed.
Results

Overall sample comprised of 166 cases and 332 controls with a mean age of 37.5 years. Multivariate analysis indicated uncontrolled T2DM as an important predictor for periodontitis among Saudi Arabian adults, and they had nearly three times greater odds (OR: 2.779; 95% CI: 1.425–5.419; p = 0.003) of being diagnosed with periodontitis in contrast to non-diabetics. Secondary findings revealed that cigarette ever-users were 2 times more likely to be suffering from periodontitis than never-users, and those brushing once per day or less had 5 times greater odds of developing periodontitis as compared to those brushing twice daily.
Conclusion

To conclude, the current case-control study is the first from Saudi Arabia to indicate that increased HbA1c level significantly effects periodontal status of Arab adults. An awareness of this association among health care providers and patients will contribute towards prevention of periodontitis in Saudi Arabia.
Identification of STAT5A as drug screening biomarker and immune checkpoint inhibitor in stomach adenocarcinoma via comprehensive bioinformatics analysis
Authors: lin tao , Wu Shuang , Wen Jianwen , Zhang Wentao
Published: April 2020

Background: Gastric cancer is one of the fatal diseases and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Limited drugs or therapeutic methods could be applied for these patients, and their prognosis was poor median overall survival (OS) of about 10 months. Increasing evidences demonstrated STAT gene family as biomarkers for prognosis, immunotherapy and drug screening.Methods: The drug screening biomarker and immune checkpoint inhibitor among STAT family were explored with several online bioinformatics tools.Results: The level STAT1/3/5A were significantly increased in STAD tissues compared with normal tissues. Methylation could downregulate STAT family expression, except STAT4. STAT1/5A/5B/6 may functioned as biomarkers for the prognosis of STAD patients. amplification and mRNA high were the most common genetic alteration form, genetic alterations could affect the disease-free survival but not overall survival of STAD patients. STAT family were involved in the activation of apoptosis pathway, EMT pathway, and hormone ER pathways, and the inhibition of cell cycle pathway, and DNA damage response pathways. Moreover, STAT5A and STAT5B were related with the drug sensitivity. Immune infiltration revealed that STAT5A level showed significant correlation with the abundance of immune cells (CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, Macrophage, Neutrphils and Dendritic cells) and the level immune biomarkers. Somatic copy number alterations of STAT5A could significantly inhibit immune cell infiltration.Conclusions: STAT5A act as drug screening biomarker and immune checkpoint inhibitor in STAD.
Exenatide and renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease: a multi-center, randomized, parallel study
Authors: Wang Xiangyu , Zhang Qian , Guan Meiping , Sheng Shuyue , Mo Wei , Zou Mengchen , Li Jimin , Bi Jianlu , Tang Xianyu , He Jiali , Xu Gugen , Li Ping , Zhang Huijie , Xue Yaoming
Published: April 2020

Background: This trial aimed to assess the effects of exenatide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA), on renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD).Methods: We performed a randomized, parallel study conducted in 4 general hospitals. T2DM patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥30 mL/min/1.73m2 and macroalbuminuria, defined as 24-hour urinary albumin excretion rate (UAER) >0.3 g/24-h, were randomized 1:1 to receive exenatide twice daily plus insulin glargine or insulin lispro plus glargine for 24 weeks. The primary outcome was percentage change in UAER after 24 weeks of intervention comparing to baseline measurement. Rates of hypoglycemia, adverse events and change in eGFR during the follow up were set as safety outcomes.Results: Between March 2016 and April 2019, 92 patients were randomized and took at least one dose of study drug. The mean age of the participants was 56 years. At baseline, the median UAER was 1512.0 mg/24-h, and mean eGFR was 70.4 mL/min/1.73 m2. After 24 weeks, exenatide reduced 29.7% of the UAER (p = 0.0255). Meanwhile, the body weight declined by 1.3 kg with exenatide (difference between groups was 2.7 kg, p = 0.0001). Comparing to the control group, lower frequency of hypoglycemia as well as more gastrointestinal adverse events were in intervention group. Conclusions: Exenatide plus insulin glargine for 24 weeks resulted in significant reduction of albuminuria in T2DM patients with DKD.Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02690883. Registered 20 February, 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02690883
Identification of Genome-Wide DNA Variants and SNP Haplotypes Associated with Avirulence Genes of Leptosphaeria Maculans in Western Canada
Authors: Chen Qilin , Peng Gary , Kutcher Randy , Yu Fengqun
Published: April 2020

BackgroundBlackleg, caused by Leptosphaeria maculans, is a serious disease of canola/ oilseed rape in many parts of the world. An integrated approach is needed to control the disease, with genetic resistance as a key component of the management strategy. Towards this goal, a reliable approach for L. maculans race structure assessment becomes essential to gain understanding of the frequency of avirulence genes and race groups of the pathogen, and provide guidance for deployment of resistant canola cultivars.ResultsA total of 162 representative isolates collected in western Canada were selected for genome re-sequencing with an Illumina platform. Assembly of the short reads against the reference genome of L. maculans 'brassicae' isolate v23.1.3 led to the discovery of 21,016 DNA variants (SNPs and InDels), 93% SNPs and 7% InDels, with a transition/transversion (Ts/Tv) ratio of 3.1 genome wide. InDels occurred mainly in GC-blocks and the Ts/Tv ratio of SNPs in AT-blocks was > 2 times higher than that in GC-blocks. The number of variants were positively correlated with supercontig size, GC-block size and gene numbers. DNA variants in most avirulence genes were SNPs, except a deletion in AvrLm1. The number of SNPs varied from 1–2 in AvrLm2, AvrLmJ1-5-9, AvrLm6, AvrLm10A, AvrLm10B and AvrLm11, 8 in AvrLm3 and 38 in AvrLm4-7. This study is the first report of triallelic SNPs in AvrLm2 and AvrLm4-7, and premature STOP codons in AvrLm4-7. Nine SNP haplotypes were identified in AvrLm4-7, however, only 2 ~ 3 haplotypes occurred in other avirulence genes, and in total 47 haplotype groups were identified from the isolates. The 47 SNP haplotype groups were translated into 44 protein haplotype groups and then isolates of L. macualns collected in western Canada were classified into10 races.ConclusionIn this study, we document the shortcoming of inferring races from SNP genotyping, and propose the use of SNP haplotyping for more reliable and informative analysis of L. maculans race structure.
Gender and key population disparities in tuberculosis programs in Cambodia: findings from a national assessment
Authors: Yi Siyan , Teo Alvin Kuo Jing , Sok Say , Tuot Sovannary , Tieng Sivanna , Khun Kim Eam , Choub Sok Chamreun , Pheng Sok Heng , Mao Tan Eang
Published: April 2020

Background Globally, the successes in tuberculosis (TB) programs are hampered by the challenges in new case identification, particularly in key and vulnerable populations. Identification of gaps in the programs in response to gender and key population sensitivity is crucial in reaching the un-identified cases. This study aims to define TB key populations, assess gender- and key population-specific issues, and identify successes and gaps in the national TB response in Cambodia.Methods This national assessment was conducted in 2018 through a consultative workshop and a validation workshop with representatives of multi-stakeholder groups, a desk review of documents from all levels of the national health system, and 19 in-depth interviews and 30 focus group discussions with policymakers, service providers, and representatives of key populations. Content analysis was conducted for qualitative interviews.Results We identified seven TB key populations to be prioritized for the national TB programs in Cambodia. Key themes that inhibit access to TB services included the lack of knowledge and awareness, distance to TB clinics, lack of time and financial means, and other systemic barriers such as inconsistencies in policy and guideline implementation at different levels of the health system and lack of financial and human resources required for effective program implementation. We did not find any indications of discriminatory practices against women and key populations. In general, community participation in the national TB response was encouraging. However, there were significant gaps in data and reporting system at all levels, which are required to understand the burden of TB and risk behaviors in genders and key populations.Conclusions Disparities in gender and key populations are well-recognized in Cambodia. Barriers to TB services faced by key populations ought to be addressed through consistent engagements with different stakeholders. Data availability is vital for enhancing the understanding of gender and key population gaps, and the existing data should be duly utilized. Mechanisms to ensure equality and inclusivity are necessary to end TB in Cambodia.
Impact of Pre-appointment contact and Short Message Service alerts in reducing ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNA) rate on rapid access new breast clinics: A DGH perspective
Authors: Kiruparan Pasupathy , Kiruparan Nanthesh , Debnath Debasish
Published: April 2020

Background: Failure to attend the clinic without prior intimation, known as “Did Not Attend” (DNA) is a significant global issue. There have been no published studies attempting to reduce DNA rates in breast clinics. We aimed to assess the impact of contacting patients prior to clinic attendance and Short Message Service (SMS) reminder on DNA rates in rapid access new breast clinics, evaluate ‘Could Not Attend’ (CNA) rate, and explore any correlation between age, sex, clinic days and sessions.Methods: Initially, DNAs at the rapid access new breast clinic between 01/04/2018 and 31/03/2019 at a district general hospital in the North-West of England was assessed (Cycle 1). Changes were introduced in terms of contacting patients prior to offering appointments, followed by SMS reminders nearer the clinic dates. Subsequently, DNA was reassessed between 01/10/2019 and 31/03/2020 (Cycle 2). Results: Following implementation of changes, DNA rate reduced from 8.2% to 4.1% (p<0.00001). CNA rates were 0.9% (Cycle 1) and 1.1% (Cycle 2) [p=0.36]. Evening clinics had the lowest DNA rates throughout. DNA patients in cycle 2 were significantly older than those in cycle 1 (p=0.002). Conclusions: Contacting patients prior to clinic appointments and sending SMS reminders helped reduce DNA rates significantly in rapid access new breast clinics. Scheduling clinic sessions with least DNA rates, such as evening clinics, should be contemplated. One should be cautious of Mobile phone technology that conveys SMS, which can potentially disadvantage the older age group. This model could be considered across the board to improve DNA rates.
Efficacy and safety of simple exercise interventions for men with osteoporosis – a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Genest Franca Maria Natalie , Lindström Sarah , Scherer Sophia , Schneider Michael , Seefried Lothar
Published: April 2020

Background: Aging is associated with progressive loss of musculoskeletal performance. Exercise interventions can improve physical function in the elderly but there is a paucity of comparative assessments in order to understand what specific goals can be achieved particularly with less demanding exercise interventions readily accessible for untrained men. Methods: Prospective randomized, controlled, single center trial to compare efficacy and feasibility of four distinct exercise interventions for 6 months in men at risk for osteoporosis aged 65-90 years. Primary endpoint was change in isometric one repetition maximum force trunk strength for extension (TSE) and flexion (TSF) compared to baseline, secondary endpoints covered key parameters of geriatric functional assessment, including Handgrip Strength (HS), Chair-Rise-Test (CRT) Usual Gait Speed (UGS) and Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG).Results: Altogether 47 men (mean age 77 +/-6.1years) were randomized to Resistance Training (RT, n=11), Whole Body Vibration Exercise (WBV, n=13), Qi Gong (QG, n=10) and wearing a Spinal Orthosis (SO, n=13). RT lead to significant improvements for TSE (p=0.009) and TSF (p=0.013). Vibration exercise caused sign. Progress in TSE (p=0.014) and CRT (p=0.005), the Spinal Orthosis improved CRT (p=0.003) and Gait Speed (p=0.027), while the QG Group did not attain any sig. developments. Subgroup analyses revealed most pronounced musculoskeletal progress in vulnerable patients (age ≥80years, pre-sarcopenia, multimorbidity ≥3chronic diseases). Irrespective of the type of exercise, participants ≥80years experienced significant gain in TSE (p=0.029) and CRT (p=0.017). Presarcopenic subjects (Skeletal muscle Index (SMI) ≤10.75 kg/m²) improved in TSE (p=0.003), CRT (p=0.001) and UGS (p=0.016). Multimorbid participants achieved sig. gains in TSE (p<0.001), TSF (p=0.002), UGS (p=0.036) and HS (p=0.046).Conclusions: Simple exercise interventions are feasible in elderly men with specific efficacy, i.e. improvements are attained in those tasks addressed with the training. Consequently, exercise strategies in elderly men should comprise multiple modalities to comprehensively cover various deficits. For vulnerable patients, any simple training appears beneficial.
Hypertension and prehypertension: prevalence and predisposing factors in Gabonese Youth and Adolescents
Authors: BIVIGOU Elsa AYO , DITOMBI Bridy MOUTOMBI , NGUEMA Ornella MBANG , MOUTONGO Reinne , PONGUI Bedrich , EKOMI Bernadette Bernadette , MAWILI-MBOUMBA Denise Patricia , AKOTET Marielle Karine BOUYOU
Published: April 2020

Background: Early detection of hypertension is necessary to reduce subsequent morbidity and mortality. The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension in a high school students from Libreville, the capital city of Gabon and to identify their predisposing factors. Methods: This was a cross-sectional and analytical study carried out on a population of students enrolled in two establishments in Libreville during the 2018-2019 year school. Information of family history of hypertension, eating habits, consumption of alcohol and/or tobacco, taking oral contraception, age, gender, body mass index and blood pressure were collected. The NHBP and European Cardiology Society 2013 classifications were used for the analysis of blood pressure in children and young adults respectively.Results: A total of 613 students with mean age of 20.3 ± 2.5 years were included. The sex ratio was 2.3. The prevalence of hypertension was 19.4% and the predisposing factors were: obesity (OR: 2.62, [1.30-5.27]), overweight (OR: 2.52, [1.30-4.89]), male sex (OR: 2.13, [1.29-3.52]) and age over 18 (OR: 13.5, [6.6-27.4]). The prevalence of prehypertension was 23.0% and the predisposing factors were: obesity (OR: 4.38, [1.03-18.6]), overweight (OR: 2.16, [1.03-4.53]), the male sex (OR: 1.72, [1.10-2.78]) and the age below 18 years (OR: 1.21, [0, 57 to 2.56]). Conclusions: Hypertension and prehypertension are frequent in school students from Libreville. Awareness on predisposing factors and screening campaigns within school establishments are necessary to reduce complications in adulthood.
The LIVE project: A Protocol for Rapid Living Reviews of HIV Implementation Research
Authors: Eshun-Wilson Ingrid , Ford Nathan , Stefan Baral , Schwartz Sheree , Geng Elvin H
Published: April 2020

Background: HIV implemention research evolves rapidly and is often complex and poorly characterized, making synthesis of data on HIV implementation strategies inherently difficult. This is further compromised by prolonged data abstraction processes, restrictions on study design and delays in publication of review findings, at times resulting in outdated and irrelevant systematic reviews. The LIVE project aims to overcome some of these challenges by conducting rapid living systematic reviews and meta-analyses.Methods: The LIVE team will generate a series of systematic reviews exploring implementation strategies targeted at improving HIV cascade outcomes. We will search Embase and Medline databases for studies conducted after 2004, using predefined search terms to identify studies conducted in any age group or setting, and using implementation strategies - targeting policy makers, society, health organizations, health workers, and patients and their families - to prevent HIV, increase HIV testing, increase ART linkage and retention, and improve viral suppression rates and survival. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies will be identified through optimized searches conducted six-monthly and features of the implementation strategies and methodological quality will be assessed using recognized tools. Review teams will publish living systematic review protocols on PROSPERO. Review results will be presented on a publically facing dashboard, with review updates conducted on a six monthly basis, and publication in peer reviewed journals supporting living review processes.Discussion: Living reviews based on both pragmatic and explanatory HIV implementation research and supported by an ongoing data abstraction process will generate rapid reviews in the HIV field which are current, relevant and maximally useful to patients, health workers and policy makers.
Phospholipase A2 Isoforms in Benzo (α) Pyrene-Induced Molecular Changes in Colon Cancer Cells: A Plausible Therapeutic Target
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev K , Yadav Subodh K , Sharma Ujjawal , Avti Pramod , Rana SatyatiVati , Khanduja Krishan Lal
Published: April 2020

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer prevalent in men, and the second in women worldwide. The exact cause and pathogenesis of this disease remains unknown. In every cell multiple phospholipase A2 (PLA2) exists, but their contribution to the cell function has yet not been determined. The increased activity of these isoforms may be important in the generation of inflammatory mediators which finally are involved in the initiation of carcinogenesis. This study has explored the pathways involved in the differential response of HCT-15 and HT-29 colon cell lines during benzo(α)pyrene [B(α)P]-induced molecular changes.Methods: HT-29 and HCT-15 cells were used for the present study. Benzo(α)pyrene [B(α)P]-induced molecular changes were evaluated through cell viability using MTT assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) measurement using 2,7 dichloro-dihydro-fluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA), The gene expressions of PLA2 isoforms were estimated by RT- PCR. Further, knockdown of PLA2 isoform in transfected cells was done with siRNA.Results: The cell viability decreased significantly after exposure with B(α)P in both cell lines. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production after exposure with B(α)P was significantly induced in both types of colon cell lines. The gene expressions of PLA2 isoforms were also estimated. Three PLA2 isoforms such as IB and, IID, IVA were induced after exposure with B(α)P respectively in HT -29 and HCT-15 cell lines. Further, a significant knockdown of PLA2 isoform in transfected cells with siRNA, and B(α)P exposure was observed in HCT-15 and HT-29 cells. There was a significant induction of ROS in IVA transfected HCT-15 cells exposure with B(α)P.Conclusion: It is concluded that each cell line behaved differently, specific PLA2 siRNA are involved in controlling the cascades related ROS, depending upon the origin of the cells. Secretary phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) inhibitors are likely to have a therapeutic potential in colon pathologies.
A Survey of Characteristics and Potential Contribution of Registered Studies for 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
Authors: Yang Ming , Shang Ya-xi , Tian Zi-yu , Xiong Min , Lu Chun-li , Jiang Yue , Zhang Yao , Zhang Ying-ying , Jin Xin-yan , Jin Qiu-bai , Zhang Ying , Willcox Merlin L. , Liu Jian-ping
Published: April 2020

Background

The World Health Organization characterized the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as a pandemic on March 11. Many clinical trials on COVID-19 have been registered, and we aim to review the characteristics of the trials and provide guidance for future trials to avoid duplicated effort.
Methods

All the studies on COVID-19 registered before Mar 3, 2020 on eight registry platforms worldwide were searched and the data of design, participants, interventions, and outcomes were extracted and analyzed. The most promising trials were screened based on study design, rationale, and resource availability.
Results

393 studies registered were identified until Mar 3 2020 and 380 (96.7%) studies were from mainland China, while 3 in Japan, 3 in France, 2 in the US, and 3 were international collaborative studies. 363 studies (92.4%) recruited participants from hospitals and 266 studies (67.7%) aimed at therapeutic effect, others were for prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, etc. 202 studies (51.4%) were randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The average sample size was 1061 and ranged from 8 to 150,000 per study. 177 out of 266 therapeutic studies (66.5% ) tested Western medicines including antiviral drugs (17.7%), stem cell and cord blood therapy (10.2%), chloroquine and derivatives (8.3%), 16 (6.0%) on Chinese medicines, and 73 (27.4%) on integrated therapy of Western and Chinese medicines. 14 Chinese medicines had its clear rationale for evaluation of therapeutic effects. 31 studies among 266 therapeutic studies (11.7%) used mortality as primary outcome, while the most designed secondary outcomes were symptoms and signs (47.0%). 106 studies (27.0%) were funded by the government, and 268 (68.2%) demonstrated ethical approval. 45.5% studies (179 out of 266) had not started recruiting till Mar 3. Eight RCTs were evaluated as the most promising trials.
Conclusions

Majority of the studies focused on assessing therapeutics for COVID-19 but inappropriate outcome setting, delayed recruitment and insufficient numbers of new cases in China implied many studies may fail to complete. Strategies and protocols of the studies with robust and rapid data sharing from international collaboration are warranted for emergency public health events, helping to accelerate priority setting for timely evidence-based decision-making.
Effect of Waste Glass Powder on Phase, Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Mullite Based Porous Ceramics with Coal-series Solid Waste as Raw Materials
Authors: Lian Wei , Liu Yan , Wang Wenjie , Dong Yangtao , Wang Sheng , Liu Zhenying , Liu Yin
Published: April 2020

Mullite based porous ceramics were successfully prepared by using a solid-phase method with gangue, slime and sawdust as raw materials. The effects of the content of glass powder and calcining temperature on microstructure and mechanical properties of the samples were systematically studied. It is found that glass powder can prevent the formation of Kyanite and reduce the synthesis temperature of mullite. The samples with 4% glass powder have a large amount of mullite calcined at 1150°C for 3h. Meanwhile, alumina in the sample is completely converted into mullite at 1180°C for 3h. Mullite content reaches 64.2wt%. The minimum apparent porosity is 31.22%, while the maximum volume density and diameter shrinkage are 1.74g/cm 3 and 8.48%, respectively. The ratio of pores of <8μm to those of 8~20μm is varied from 7:2 to 2:7, due to the addition of the glass powder. With increasing content of mullite, the flexural properties of the samples are increased from 7.7MPa to 28.36MPa. Therefore, with solid wastes as the resource, the porous ceramics have a bright prospect.
Selection and validation of reference genes for RT-qPCR analysis in Litchi chinensis Sonn. pericarp
Authors: Li Fang , Sun Jinhua , Men Jiali , Li Huanling , Wang Guo , Wang Shujun , Wang Jiabao
Published: April 2020

Background: Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) is an important tool for gene expression analysis and function identification. Suitable reference genes are the basis of accurate and reliable qPCR results. Litchi ( Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a commercially important tropical and subtropical fruit crop, rapid pericarp browning is the major negative impact on the industry. Reference gene validation would help screen for genes involved in the browning mechanism.Results: In this study, fifteen new candidate reference genes, identified with transcriptome data, were assessed to determine stable reference genes for qRT-PCR analysis of litchi pericarps from different varieties, with differing postharvest storage, and under pathogenic inoculation. Ct values, Genorm, Normfind, and Reffinder algorithms, were used to identify the most stable genes. The results showed that GAGA-25 was the most stable gene for comparing different varieties of fresh pericarp, HDAC9 was the most stable gene for postharvest pericarp, STAM was the most stable for inoculated pericarp. Among the candidate reference genes, GAGA-25 was the most stable reference gene across the complete sample set.Conclusion: This study evaluated reference gene stability for qRT-PCR with litchi pericarp. This work supplies a foundation for qPCR use in future gene function and molecular mechanism studies of litchi pericarp browning.