bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessments of Therapeutic Effects of Platelet-rich Plasma in Knee Osteoarthritis: Possible Role of Inflammatory Cytokines
Authors: Hassan Mohammed H. , Saleem Tahia H. , Abuhamdah Sawsan , Tammam Hamdy , Zaki Nehal Ashraf , Abdel-Razik Ghada M. , Saleem Safaa Y. , Said Elsayed
Published: September 2020

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial disease that commonly affects the knee. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is able to regulate inflammation in OA. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) may be involved in the pathophysiology of arthritis. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may reduce pain associated with OA. The current study aimed to assess the possible therapeutic effects of PRP in patients with knee OA of various severities. Methods: A prospective study was performed on 90 patients were included and categorized into mild (30 cases, moderate (30 cases) and severe (30 cases) knee OA. Three intra-articular (I.A) injections of PRP, 2 weeks a part, were received. Pain score and MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score (MOAKS) were assessed. Serial synovial fluid cytokines assays in the form of Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), were performed using commercially available ELISA assay kits. The assays were performed pre-injection (S1), two weeks from the 1st I.A injection and two weeks from the 2nd I.A injection (S3) for all included patients. Results: The mean values of pain score and synovial TNF-α and MIF levels were significantly higher levels (S1, pre-injection) among severe OA when compared with both mild and moderate cases, p˂0.05 for all. There were significantly lower pain score and synovial TNF-α and MIF levels at S3 in mild, moderate and severe knee OA when compared with S1 values, p˂0.05 for all. There was significant improvement in synovitis in both mild and moderate cases (p˂0.05 for both). Conclusion: I.A injection of PRP significantly reduces the synovial fluid TNF-α and MIF levels with great therapeutic effects on both synovitis via reducing inflammatory cytokines, and bone marrow lesions mainly for mild knee OA and to a lesser extent for moderate cases.
Enhancing stability by trapping palladium inside N-heterocyclic carbene-functionalized hypercrosslinked polymers for heterogeneous C-C bond formations
Authors: Yue Chengtao , Xing Qi , Sun Peng , Zhao Zelun , Lv Hui , Li Fuwei
Published: September 2020

Catalyst deactivation caused by the aggregation of active metal species in the reaction process poses great challenges for practical applications of supported metal catalysts in solid-liquid catalysis. Herein, we developed a hypercrosslinked polymer integrated with N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) as bifunctional support to stabilize palladium in heterogeneous C-C bond formations. This polymer supported palladium catalyst exhibits excellent stability in the one-pot fluorocarbonylation of indoles to four kinds of valuable indole-derived carbonyl compounds in cascade or sequential manner, as well as the representative Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction. Stabilizing mechanism investigations disclose that this catalyst displays a molecular fence effect in which the coordination of NHC sites and confinement of polymer skeleton contribute together to stabilize the active palladium species in the reaction process. This work provides new insight into the development of supported metal catalysts with high stability and will also boost their efficient applications in advanced synthesis.
Combination of Intraspine Interlaminar Device With Lumbar Discectomy in Patients With L5/S1 Disc Herniation
Authors: Feng Shitong , Fan Zihan , Li Xiang , Lin Jisheng , Yang Yong , Fei Qi
Published: September 2020

Background. It is commonly recognized that interspinous spacers were not generally suitable for the application in L5-S1 level due to the short S1 spinous process.In this retrospective study, the feasibility and validity of the IntraSpine interlaminar device in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation on the L5/S1 level were evaluated.Methods. During the January 2018 and December 2018, a total of 30 patients, who were hospitalized in our hospital due to lumbar disc herniation (LDH) on the L5/S1 level, were included in the current study. The clinical symptoms before surgery, post-operation (3 days after surgery), 6 months after surgery, 12 months after surgery, and final follow-up were assessed using the back and leg visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI). Sagittal diameter of the lumbar spinal canal (SD), posterior disc height (PDH), left and right foramina height (LFH and RFH), left and right foramina width (LFW and RFW) were measured by sagittal reconstructions of CT scans. The range of motion (ROM) of L5-S1 level was estimated by lumbar dynamic X-ray images.Results. The back VAS, leg VAS, ODI, were significantly improved after surgery(P<0.05). The SD, PHD, LFH, RFH, LFW, and RFW after the operation and in the follow-up period were statistically different from those before surgery (P<0.05). The ROM of L5/S1 level at final follow-up was not statistically different from that before surgery (P = 0.299). 93.3% of patients demonstrated successful outcomes.Conclusions. The combination of IntraSpine interlaminar device with lumbar discectomy is an effective minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of L5/S1 disc herniation, which can delay and prevent the reduction of the disc height after discectomy in L5/S1 segment.
Long-term Body Mass Index Changes in obese Adults and the Risk of Heart Failure, Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality: A Longitudinal Study of 260,000 Adults
Authors: Iyen Barbara , Weng Stephen , Vinogradova Yana , Akyea Ralph , Qureshi Nadeem , Kai Joe
Published: September 2020

Background: Although obesity is a well-recognised risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), the impact of long-term body mass index (BMI) changes in overweight or obese adults, on the risk of heart failure, CVD and mortality has not been quantified.Methods: This population-based cohort study used routine UK primary care electronic health data linked to secondary care and death-registry records. We identified adults who were overweight or obese, free from CVD and who had repeated BMI measures. Using group-based trajectory modelling, we examined the BMI trajectories of these individuals and then determined incidence rates of CVD, heart failure and mortality associated with the different trajectories. Cox-proportional hazards regression determined hazards ratios for incident outcomes. Results: 264,230 individuals (mean age 49.5 years (SD 12.7) and mean BMI 33.8kg/m2 (SD 6.1)) were followed-up for a median duration of 10.9 years. Four BMI trajectories were identified, corresponding at baseline, with World Health Organisation BMI classifications for overweight, class-1, class-2 and class-3 obesity respectively. In all four groups, there was a small, stable upwards trajectory in BMI (mean BMI increase of 1.06kg/m2 (± 3.8)). Compared with overweight individuals, class-3 obese individuals had a 3.3-fold increased risk of heart failure (HR 3.26 (95% CI 2.98-3.57)), 2.7-fold increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR 2.72 (2.58-2.87)) and 3.3-fold increased risk of CVD-related mortality (HR 3.31 (2.84-3.86)) after adjusting for baseline demographic and cardiovascular risk factors. Conclusion: The majority of adults who are overweight or obese retain their degree of overweight or obesity over the long term. Individuals with stable severe obesity experience the worst heart failure, CVD and mortality outcomes. These findings highlight the high cardiovascular toll exacted by continuing failure to tackle obesity.
Genome-Wide Association Analysis Reveals Genetic Variations and Candidate Genes Associated with Salt Tolerance Related Traits in Gossypium Hirsutum
Authors: Xu Peng , Guo Qi , Meng Shan , Zhang Xianggui , Xu Zhenzhen , Guo Wangzhen , Shen Xinlian
Published: September 2020

Background: As a pioneer industrial crop in saline-alkali lands, cotton is more resistant to salt and drought stresses. However, abiotic stresses still have significant negative effects on its growth and development. It is therefore important to breed salt tolerance varieties which can help accelerate the improvement of cotton production. The development of molecular markers linked to causal genes has provided an effective and efficient approach for improving salt tolerance. Results: In this study, a genome-wide association study of salt tolerance related traits at seedling stage was performed based on two years of phenotype identification for 217 representative upland cotton cultivars by Genotyping By-Sequencing platform. A total of 51,060 polymorphic SNPs unevenly distributed in 26 chromosomes were screened across the cotton cultivars, and 25 associations with 27 SNPs scattered over 12 chromosomes were detected significantly (-log10p>4) associated with three salt tolerance related traits in 2016 and 2017. Among these, the associations on chromosome A13 and D08 for RPH, A07 for RSFW, A08 and A13 for RSDW were expressed in both two environments, indicating that they were likely to be stable QTLs. A total of 12 salt-induced candidate genes were identified differentially expressed by the combination of GWAS and transcriptome analysis. Three promising genes were selected to conduct preliminary function verification of salt tolerance. The increase of GH_A13G0171-silenced plants in salt related traits under salt stress indicated its negative function in regulating the salt stress response. Conclusions: These results provided important genetic variations and candidate genes for accelerate the improvement of salt tolerance in cotton.
Moderately Reduced Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) among Community - Dwelling Older People Associated with Increased Long Term Mortality: A Study from Low to Middle Income Country in Asia.
Authors: Skulratanasak Peenida , Chalermsri Chalobol , Aekplakorn Wichai , Srinonpras Varalak
Published: September 2020

Background: Reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is regarded as a component of renal senescence; however, the full impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among older people is still not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the effect of reduced GFR on all-cause mortality, and the combined effect of socioeconomic status and CKD on mortality among older Thai population.Methods: A retrospective cohort of Thai population aged >60 years was enrolled from the Fourth National Health Examination Survey, and estimated GFR (eGFR) and comorbid disease data were collected. Mortality information was gathered from the National Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System. Factors associated with all-cause mortality were determined using Cox proportional hazards model.Results: A total of 9,080 participants (mean age: 69.5 years) were included. Prevalence of CKD stage 3-5 was 53.3%. During the 2008-2015 period, the overall mortality rate among CKD was 28.9 per 1,000 person-years. The stages of CKD significantly associated with increased mortality were stages 3b, 4, and 5, as follows: HR: 1.44 (95% CI: 1.24-1.67), 2.42 (95% CI: 1.98-2.96), and HR: 6.43 (95% CI: 4.67-8.87), respectively. People with higher socioeconomic status and moderate-stage CKD had lower mortality than lower socioeconomic status moderate-stage CKD.Conclusion: Moderate decline in eGFR was found to be independently associated with all-cause mortality in Thai elderly population. Socioeconomic disparities were also observed among older CKD. Implementation of a mass screening program to identify asymptomatic individuals would accelerate diagnosis and treatment, and this would reduce the costs of care associated with advanced-stage disease.
Perspectives of Family Physicians Towards Access to Lung Cancer Screening for Individuals Living With Low Income – A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sayani Ambreen , Vahabi Mandana , O’Brien Mary Ann , Liu Geoffrey , Hwang Stephen W. , Selby Peter , Nicholson Erika , Lofters Aisha
Published: September 2020

Background: Individuals living with low income are less likely to participate in lung cancer screening (LCS) with low-dose computed tomography. Family physicians (FPs) are typically responsible for referring eligible patients to LCS; therefore, we sought to understand their perspectives on access to lung cancer screening for individuals living with low income in order to improve equity in access to LCS. Methods: A theory-informed qualitative study was conducted using data collected from 11 semi-structured interviews with FPs recruited from three primary care sites in downtown Toronto. Data was coded using the Systems Model of Clinical Preventative Care as a framework and interpretation was guided by the synergies of oppression analytical lens. Results: Four overarching themes describe FP perspectives on access to LCS for individuals living with low income: the degree of social disadvantage that influences lung cancer risk and opportunities to access care; the clinical encounter, where there is often a mismatch between the complex health needs of low income individuals and structure of health care appointments; the need for equity-oriented health care, illustrated by the neglect of structural origins of health risk and the benefits of a trauma-informed approach; and finally, the multiprong strategies that will be needed in order to improve equity in health outcomes. Conclusion: An equity-oriented and interdisciplinary team based approach to care will be needed in order to improve access to LCS, and attention must be given to the upstream determinants of lung cancer in order to reduce lung cancer risk.
Using simulation Technology to Analyze the COVID-19 Epidemic in Changsha, Hunan Province, China
Authors: Zhou Nan , LI Guoqun , LI Tong , LI Weitong , CHEN Mengxiang , ZHANG Siyu , ZHANG Heng , ZHA Wenting , Yuan LV
Published: September 2020

This study mainly uses simulation technology to simulate the COVID-19 epidemic in Changsha, Hunan Province, China, and analyze the impact of different prevention and control measures on the epidemic. we Collect the information of all COVID-19 patients in Changsha from January 21, 2020 to March 14, 2020 and relevant policies during the COVID-19 epidemic in Changsha. Established the SEIAR infectious disease dynamics model under natural conditions, and added isolation measures on this basis. Using Anylogic8.5, the COVID-19 epidemic in Changsha City was simulated under various conditions based on the established model.In this study we find that There were 242 COVID-19 patients in Changsha. including 121 males (50%) and 121 females (50%).Most cases occurred between February 6 and February 16. Through the calculation of the Rt during the epidemic in Changsha, it is found that it is reasonable to resume work on February 8, because the Rt value of Changsha dropped below 1 at this time.The simulation results show that reducing the contact rate of residents and reducing the success rate of virus transmission (wearing masks, disinfection, etc.) can effectively prevent the spread of COVID-19 and significantly reduce the number of peak patients.We believe that the disease is mainly spread by the respiratory tract. Therefore, the simulation results show that whether in the early or mid-stage of the epidemic, quarantining the names of residents or reducing the contact rate of residents is very effective in controlling the COVID-19 epidemic.
Multiple Freeze-thaw Cycles Lead to a Loss of Consistency in Poly(A)-enriched RNA Sequencing
Authors: Kellman Benjamin , Baghdassarian Hratch , Pramparo Tiziano , Shamie Isaac , Gazestani Vahid , Begzati Arjana , Li Shengzhong , Nalabolu Srinivasa , Murray Sarah , Lopez Linda , Pierce Karen , Courchesne Eric , Lewis Nathan
Published: September 2020

RNA-Seq is ubiquitous, but depending on the study, sub-optimal sample handling may be required, resulting in repeated freeze-thaw cycles. However, little is known about how each cycle impacts downstream analyses, due to a lack of study and known limitations in common RNA quality metrics, e.g., RIN, at quantifying RNA degradation following repeated freeze-thaws. Here we quantify the impact of repeated freeze-thaw on the reliability of RNA-Seq. To do so, we developed a method to estimate the relative noise between technical replicates independently of RIN. Using this approach we inferred the effect of both RIN and the number of freeze-thaw cycles on sample noise. We find that RIN is unable to fully account for the change in sample noise due to freeze-thaw cycles. Additionally, freeze-thaw is detrimental to sample quality and differential expression (DE) reproducibility, approaching zero after three cycles for poly(A)-enriched samples, wherein the inherent 3’ bias in read coverage is more exacerbated by freeze-thaw cycles, while ribosome-depleted samples are less affected by freeze-thaws. The use of poly(A)-enrichment for RNA sequencing is pervasive in library preparation of frozen tissue, and thus, it is important during experimental design and data analysis to consider the impact of repeated freeze-thaw cycles on reproducibility.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in Two Contrasting Soybean Genotypes Subjected to Phosphate Starvation
Authors: zhang jinyu , Zhang Xiangqian , Yang Yuming , Xu Huanqing , Huang Zhongwen , Zhang Dan
Published: September 2020

Background: Phosphorus (P) is essential for plant growth and development, and low-phosphorus (LP) stress is a major factor limiting the growth and yield of soybean. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to be key regulators in response to stress conditions in plants. In soybean, however, how LP stress mediates biogenesis of lncRNAs remains unclear. Results: In this study, to explore the response mechanisms of lncRNAs to LP stress, we used the roots of two representative soybean genotypes with opposite P deficiency responsiveness, a P-sensitive genotype (Bogao) and a P-tolerant genotype (NN94156), to construct RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) libraries. In total, 4,166 novel lncRNAs including 525 differently expressed (DE) lncRNAs were identified across two genotypes at different P levels. GO and KEGG analyses indicated that numerous DE lncRNAs might be involved in diverse biological processes of phosphate, such as lipid metabolic process, catalytic activity, cell membrane formation, signal transduction, nitrogen fixation. Moreover, lncRNA-mRNA-miRNA and lncRNA-mRNA networks were constructed and several promising lncRNAs were identified, which may have highly valuable for further analysis the mechanism in response to LP stress in soybean.Conclusions: These results revealed that LP stress can significantly alter the genome-wide profiles of lncRNAs, especially for P sensitive genotype Bogao. Our findings increase the understanding and provides new insights into the function of lncNRAs responses to P stress in soybean.
CCT6A, a novel prognostic biomarker for Ewing's sarcoma
Authors: Jiang Jie , Liu Chong , Xu Guoyong , Liang Tuo , Yu Chaojie , Qin Zhaojie , Liao Shian , Xue Jiang , Zeng Haopeng , Zhang Zide , Lu Zhaojun , Wang Zequn , Chen Jiarui , Chen Tianyou , Li Hao , Zhan Xinli
Published: September 2020

Background

Ewing's sarcoma (ES) is the second most prevalent malignancy among bone tissue tumors, and there is no adequate prognosis biomarker. The protein encoded by CCT6A is a molecular chaperone. Early studies have suggested that CCT6A is involved in the development of many cancers, however, there is no clear evidence of a role for CCT6A in ES.
Methods

In this study, we performed a bioinformatics analysis of 32 Ewing sarcoma specimens from the GSE17618 dataset for differences in gene expression and overall survival, event-free survival, and gene expression in different subgroups.
Results

After three screenings, we identified CCT6A as highly correlated with Ewing's sarcoma prognosis. Survival analysis showed low overall survival (OS) for CCT6A high expression (P = 0.024). On the other hand, Cox regression analysis showed that CCT6A expression, event-free survival (EFS), and age were strongly associated with the prognosis of Ewing sarcoma, identified as independent poor prognostic biomarkers. (CCT6A: P = 0.015; Age: P-value = 0.026; EFS: P-value = 0.001).
Conclusion

The expression level of CCT6A is strongly associated with the prognosis of Ewing's sarcoma. High expression of the CCT6A gene may serve as a biomarker for poor prognosis in patients with Ewing's sarcoma.
Ecology of inorganic sulfur auxiliary metabolism in widespread bacteriophages
Authors: Kieft Kristopher , Zhou Zhichao , Anderson Rika , Buchan Alison , Campbell Barbara , Hallam Steven , Hess Matthias , Sullivan Matthew , Walsh David , Roux Simon , Anantharaman Karthik
Published: September 2020

Microbial sulfur metabolism contributes to biogeochemical cycling on global scales. Sulfur metabolizing microbes are infected by phages that can encode auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) to alter sulfur metabolism within host cells but remain poorly characterized. Here we identified 191 phages derived from twelve environments that encoded 227 AMGs for oxidation of sulfur and thiosulfate (dsrA, dsrC/tusE, soxC, soxD and soxYZ). Evidence for retention of AMGs during niche-differentiation of diverse phage populations provided evidence that auxiliary metabolism imparts measurable fitness benefits to phages with ramifications for ecosystem biogeochemistry. Gene abundance and expression profiles of AMGs suggested significant contributions by phages to sulfur and thiosulfate oxidation in freshwater lakes and oceans, and a sensitive response to changing sulfur concentrations in hydrothermal environments. Overall, our study provides novel insights on the distribution, diversity and ecology of phage auxiliary metabolism associated with sulfur and reinforces the necessity of incorporating viral contributions into biogeochemical configurations.
Comparative Analysis of Postoperative Sexual Dysfunction and Quality of Life in Type A Aortic Dissection Patients of Different Ages
Authors: Luo Zeng-Rong , Liao Dong-Shan , Chen Liang-Wan
Published: September 2020

Background: To compare postoperative sexual dysfunction (SD) and quality of life (QOL) in Type A Aortic Dissection (AAD) Patients of Different Ages. Methods: From January 2018 to December 2019, 204 AAD postoperative survivors in Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University were selected and were divided into youth group (less than 50 years old) and elderly group (more than 50 years old). We evaluated SD according to the male International Erectile Dysfunction Index (IIEF-5) and female sexual function index (FSFI) . The Short Form 12 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-12) and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (Q-LES-Q) were used to investigate the QOL, Quick Inventory Depressive Symptomatology-Self Report (QIDS-SR) and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) to investigate depressive symptoms. Results: 175 patients completed all the questionnaire (85.8%). The total SD prevalence rate was 38.9% (68 cases), with 27.4% of the youth (20 cases) and 47.1% of the elderly (48 cases). The age of non-SD and SD patients was 49.0±11.5 and 56.9±10.8 years, respectively (P=0.03). Compared with non-SD patients, the total physical health of SD patients was significantly worse (P=0.04), however, the mental health was not significantly worse (P=0.77); the depressive symptoms did not expressed a significant difference between the SD and non-SD groups (QIDS-SR P=0.15, BDI-Ⅱ P=0.06) . Total physical health in the youth SD group did not show significant better (P = 0.24), however, total mental health showed significantly worse (P=0.04), depressive symptoms scores were significantly higher (QIDS-SR P=0.03, BDI-Ⅱ P=0.04). Conclusion: The postoperative AAD SD prevalence of elderly is higher than that of youth, and the total physical health of SD patients is poorer than those without SD patients. The youth SD patients did not show a significant higher scores than the elderly SD patients, instead, the youth SD patients were more psychologically affected than the elderly SD patients, whose mental health was worse, and depression symptoms were more obvious, suggesting that the factors affecting the QOL of postoperative SD patients are related to physical factors, but the youth postoperative SD patients mainly affected by psychological factors.
Aquaporin 3 Promotes Human Extravillous Trophoblast Migration and Invasion
Authors: Nong Ying-qi , Li Shi-fen , Liu Wen-juan , Zhang Xi-qian , Fan Lin , Chen Ye , Huang Qian-wen , Zhang Qian-yu , Liu Feng-hua
Published: September 2020

Problem: Does aquaporin 3 (AQP3) affect the migration and invasion of human extravillous trophoblast (HTR8/Svneo) cells?Method of Study: A lentivirus infection system was used to construct stable cell lines with either AQP3 knockdown or overexpression. RT-PCR and western blotting were used to verify the efficiencies of AQP3 knockdown or overexpression in HTR8/Svneo cells at mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry assays were used to detect the influence of AQP3 knockdown or overexpression on proliferation and apoptosis of HTR8/Svneo cells. In addition, wound healing and Transwell invasion assays were used to detect the effects of AQP3 knockdown or overexpression on migration and invasion capabilities of HTR8/Svneo cells. An Agilent gene chip was used to screen for significant differentially expressed genes after AQP3 knockdown. Finally, mechanisms by which AQP3 influences the migration and invasion of HTR8/Svneo cells were explored using bioinformatic analysis.Results: Compared with controls, migration and invasion capabilities of HTR8/Svneo cells were significantly reduced after AQP3 knockdown, and significantly increased after AQP3 overexpression. Subsequent bioinformatic analysis of gene chip expression profiles indicated downregulation of genes related to adhesion such as PDGF-B, as well as signaling pathways (such as PIK3/AKT, NF-κB, and TNF) after AQP3 knockdown. Conclusions: AQP3 could significantly promote migration and invasion capabilities of human extravillous trophoblasts, it may mediate embryo invasion and adhesion to endometrium by regulating PDGF-B、PIK3/AKT signaling pathways, although this requires further verification.
How Well Do Documented Goals-of-care Discussions for Patients With Stage IV Cancer Reflect Communication Best Practices?
Authors: Ernecoff Natalie C. , Wessell Kathryn L. , Wood William A. , Winzelberg Gary S. , Collichio Frances A. , Hanson Laura C.
Published: September 2020

Background: Written clinical communication regarding patients’ disease understanding and values may facilitate goal-concordant care, yet little is known about electronic health record (EHR) goals-of-care documentation. We sought to (1) describe frequency of communication best practices in EHR-documented goals-of-care discussions, and (2) assess whether templated notes improve quality of documentation.Methods: We abstracted all EHR-documented goals-of-care discussions for hospitalized patients with Stage IV cancer from admission to 60-days follow-up. Goals-of-care documentation was operationalized to include discussion of: (1) prognosis or illness understanding; and (2) goals or treatment options. Investigators qualitatively coded text based on conceptual frameworks for communication best practices, and noted if a health system template was used. Results: Among 206 of 492 (42%) patients with documented goals-of-care discussions, clinicians frequently communicated cancer progression or incurability (89%), but rarely addressed prognosis for life expectancy (22%). Goals and values were documented for 83%, and a treatment decision for 82% of patients. Treatment preferences were assessed for 98% of patients; options discussed included cancer treatment (62%), hospice (62%), resuscitation (51%), or intensive care (38%). Clinicians made a treatment recommendation for 40% of patients. Attention to emotional and spiritual concerns was uncommon (15%). Use of a template increased documentation of patient goals and values (80% vs. 61%, p<0.01), but did not enhance other communication best practices.Conclusion: Insights from the study can be used to guide future training and research to study and improve the quality of written communication about goal of care, and its impact on goal-concordant care.
"I felt what was happening in our country [USA] with race was so much scarier than the [COVID-19] virus." Black Lives Matter protesters’ beliefs and practices during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Arana-Chicas Evelyn , Jones Brooke D , Cartujano-Barrera Francisco , Cupertino Ana Paula
Published: September 2020

Background: The killing of George Floyd triggered the Black Lives Matter protests against police brutality and social injustices in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. No research to date has assessed the COVID-19 prevention practices and beliefs of protesters. The purpose of this study was to assess COVID-19 prevention practices and beliefs of Black Lives Matter protesters in the USA. Methods: A pilot mixed methods study was employed. Participants completed a survey collecting data on their frequency in following COVID-19 recommended guidelines and answered open-ended interview questions to elucidate the results from the survey. Results: Twenty participants completed the study. Participants’ average age was 29 and most participants were female (80%) and black (75%). Most always or almost always properly wore their masks (50% and 25%, respectively) and washed their hands during a protest 2-3 times or more than 3 times (35% and 50%, respectively). Although all believed that COVID-19 testing is important (90%), most had never been tested (85%) and most did not self-quarantine for 14 days after protesting (95%). Moreover, most participants reported never or rarely following social distancing guidelines at a protest (25% and 30%, respectively) and most reported being Not at all or Slightly concerned about COVID-19 while at a protest (25% and 30%, respectively). Qualitative data highlighted the following themes: 1) Fighting for social justice, 2) Protesting being more important than COVID-19, 3) Unable to keep 6 ft distance, 4) Masks worn most of the time, 5) Protests sparked global movement, and 6) Increasing awareness of injustices. Conclusion: Although protesters believe that both the fight for social justice and taking precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic are important, they believe the fight for social justice is more important than the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they understand the importance of COVID-19 and try to practice the recommended guidelines to prevent its spread while protesting. These results make an important contribution for policies for controlling the spread of the disease, and also understanding human behavior of protesting for social justice during a pandemic.
LncRNA MYLK-AS1 facilitates tumor progression and angiogenesis by targeting miR-424-5p/E2F7 axis and activating VEGFR-2 signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Teng Fei , Zhang Ju-Xiang , Chang Qi-Meng , Wu Xu-Bo , Tang Wei-Guo , Wang Jian-Fa , Feng Jin-Feng , Zhang Zi-Ping , Hu Zhiqiu
Published: September 2020

BackgroundLong non-coding RNA is essential for the metastasis, invasion, angiogenesis and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, their specific mechanisms are still controversial. Here, we found that Lnc-MYLK-AS1 is a potential oncogene. We systematically analyzed the clinical significance and mechanism of Lnc-MYLK-AS1 in HCC metastasis, invasion and angiogenesis.MethodsDetermine research goals through bioinformatics analysis. The expression of MYLK-AS1 in matched tumor and non-tumor tissues of 156 HCC patients was detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The in vitro and in vivo biological functions of MYLK-AS1 were examined through the loss of function and function gain experiments. The use of dual luciferase reporter gene analysis, quantitative PCR, Western blotting, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) clarified the underlying mechanism of this competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA). ResultsMYLK-AS1 is up-regulated in HCC cell lines and tumor tissues, which is related to tumor progression and enhancement of angiogenesis. Overexpression of MYLK-AS1 promotes the proliferation, metastasis, invasion, and angiogenesis of HCC cells, while down-regulation of MYLK-AS1 can reverse these effects in vivo and in vitro. Dual analysis of luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation showed that microRNA miR-424-5p is the direct target of MYLK-AS1, and MYLK-AS1 acts as ceRNA, which can regulate angiogenesis in HCC. Mechanism studies have shown that miR-424-5p specifically targets E2F transcription factor 7 (E2F7), while the complex MYLK-AS1/miR-424-5p activates VEGFR2 signaling through E2F7, thereby promoting tumor proliferation and angiogenesis.ConclusionThe up-regulation of MYLK-AS1 is related to tumor cell proliferation, increased angiogenesis and poor prognosis in HCC patients. MYLK-AS1 regulates E2F7 expression and VEGFR2 signaling by acting as a ceRNA of miR-424-5p.
Serum biomarkers research of tourette’s syndrome children using proteomics techniques--a pilot study
Authors: He WenXiang , Chen YanNi , Wang Duan , Zhang HaiQing , Zhang Hui , Ma YanFang
Published: September 2020

Purpose:This study used proteomics to analyze the changes in serum proteomics between tourette’s syndrome (TS) children and healthy children in order to find serum biomarkers that can distinguish TS children from healthy children.Experimental design: We analyzed the serum proteome of 60 TS children and 30 healthy controls children using magnetic bead-based weak cation exchange (MB-WCX) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Next, we identified candidate biomarkers using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS). Candidate biomarkers were then validated using ELISA and western blotting.Results: 59 peaks were identified and the expression fold changes of seven peaks in the two groups were greater than 1.9. Two peaks (m/z: 6443.34 Da; m/z: 6642.05 Da;) tended to be upregulated, whilefive peaks (m/z: 863.13 Da; m/z: 2175.98 Da; m/z: 2191.841 Da; m/z: 2277.19 Da;m/z: 2293.11 Da) tended to be down-regulated in TS group. The peak for a 2191.84 Da peptide was identified as FGA (Isoform 1 of the Fibrinogen alpha chain precursor, FGA);The peak for a 2175.98 Da peptide was identified as PKM2 (Isoform M2 of Pyruvate kinase isozymes,PKM2);The peak for a 2277.19 Da peptide was identified as GAPDH (Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase,GAPDH);The peak for a 863.13 Da peptide was identified as PROC (Vitamin K-dependent protein C,PROC).Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyses revealed that the expression of FGA and PKM2 were significantly higher in TS children than healthy controls children. Conclusion: FGA and PKM2 may be potential serum biomarkers to distinguish TS children from healthy children.
Variations in Facial Conformation Are Associated With Differences in Nasal Microbiota in Healthy Dogs
Authors: Vangrinsven Emilie , Aline Fastrès , Bernard Taminiau , Billen Frédéric , Georges Daube , Cécile Clercx
Published: September 2020

Background – Extrinsic and intrinsic factors have been shown to influence nasal microbiota (NM) in humans. Very few studies investigated the association between nasal microbiota and factors like facial/body conformation, age, and environment in dogs. Objectives are to investigate variations in NM in healthy dogs with different facial and body conformations and to assess the influence of age and living environment. A total of 46 dogs of different age, living environment and from 3 different breed groups were recruited: 22 meso-/dolichocephalic medium to large breed dogs, 12 brachycephalic dogs and 12 terrier breeds. The nasal bacterial microbiota was assessed through sequencing of 16S rRNA gene (V1-V3 regions) amplicons.Results – We showed major differences in the NM composition together with increased richness and α-diversity in brachycephalic dogs, compared to meso-/dolichocephalic dogs and dogs from terrier breeds. We failed to detect any effect of age or environment.Conclusion – Healthy brachycephalic breeds and their unique facial conformation is associated with a distinct NM profile. Description of the NM in healthy dogs serves as a foundation for future researches assessing the changes associated with disease and the modulation of NM communities as a potential treatment.
Quantitative Assessment of Resting State for Mild Cognitive Impairment Detection: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Yang Dalin , Hong Keum-Shik
Published: September 2020

Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is considered a prodromal stage of Alzheimer’s disease, which is the sixth leading cause of death in the United State. Early diagnosis of MCI can allow for treatment to improve cognitive function and reduce modifiable risk factors. Currently, the combination of machine learning and neuroimaging plays a role in identifying and understanding neuropathological diseases. However, some challenges still remain, and these limitations need to be optimized for clinical MCI diagnosis. Methods: In this study, for stable identification with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) using the minimum resting-state time, nine different measurement durations (i.e., 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, and 270 s) were evaluated based on 30 s intervals using a traditional machine learning approach and graph theory analysis. The machine learning methods were trained using temporal features of the resting-state fNIRS signal and included linear discriminant analysis (LDA), support vector machine, and K-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithms. To enhance the diagnostic accuracy, feature representation- and classification-based transfer learning (TL) methods were used to detect MCI from the healthy controls through the input of connectivity maps with 30 and 90 s durations. Results: As in the results of the traditional machine learning and graph theory analysis, there was no significant difference among the different time windows. The accuracy of the conventional machine learning methods ranged from 55.76% (KNN, 120 s) to 67.00% (LDA, 90 s). The feature representation-based TL showed improved accuracy in both the 30 and 90 s cases (i.e., mean accuracy of 30 s: 79.37%, mean accuracy of 30 s: 74.05%). Notably, the classification-based TL method achieved the highest accuracy of 97.01% using the VGG19 pre-trained CNN model trained with the 30 s duration connectivity map. Conclusion: The results indicate that a 30 s measurement of the resting state with fNIRS could be used to detect MCI. Moreover, the combination of neuroimaging (e.g., functional connectivity maps) and deep learning methods (e.g., CNN and TL) may be considered as novel biomarkers for clinical computer-assisted MCI diagnosis.
A Chinese Stock Reviews Sentiment Analysis Based on BERT Model
Authors: Mingzheng Li , Lei Chen , Jing Zhao , Qiang Li
Published: September 2020

A huge amount of stock reviews occurred on the Internet due to its rapid development, therefore, the stock reviews sentiment analysis has profound significance for the study of the financial market. Due to the lack of a large amount of labeled data, the accuracy of existing sentiment analysis of Chinese stock reviews remains to be further improved. In this paper, a sentiment analysis algorithm for Chinese stock reviews based on BERT is proposed and it improves the accuracy of sentiment classification. The algorithm uses BERT pre-training language model to perform representation of stock reviews on the sentence level, and then input the obtained feature vector into the classifier layer for classification. In the experiments, we show our method has nearly 8% and 9% improvement than TextCNN and TextRNN in F1, respectively. Our model can obtain the best results via fine-tuning which is proved to be effective in Chinese stock review sentiment analysis.
Influences of Acid Catalysts on The Microstructure, Bioactivity and Cytotoxicity of Bioactive Glass Nanoparticles Prepared by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Kuo Chao-Kuang , Chen Liu-Gu , Tseng Chun-Fu , Chou Yu-Jen
Published: September 2020

Bioactive glasses have received considerable attention in the fields of medical and material science and have been applied in applications such as bone implants, tooth fillings, and drug carriers due to their high bioactivity, biocompatibility and biodegradability. Numerous studies applying either conventional glass processes or the sol-gel method have employed Hench's protocol for the fabrication of bioactive glass. However, the effects of various acid catalysts when using spray pyrolysis to synthesize bioactive glass remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, we synthesized bioactive glass nanoparticles using spray pyrolysis and then treated them with the acid catalysts hydrochloric acid, lactic acid and acetic acid. By characterizing the phase information and morphologies of the bioactive glass particles and examining their bioactivity and cytotoxicity, we found that the bioactive glass treated with hydrochloric acid yielded greater cell viability than the lactic acid- and acetic acid-treated specimens; the corresponding mechanisms are discussed in this paper.
Rapid Ethnographic Assessment for Potential Anti-Malarial Mass Drug Administration in an Outbreak Area of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Authors: Keys Hunter , Ureña Keyla , Reyes Jhefres , Bardosh Kevin , Pell Christopher , Puello Jose , Blount Stephen , Noland Gregory S.
Published: September 2020

Background: In the Dominican Republic, a recent outbreak of malaria in the capital, Santo Domingo, threatens efforts to eliminate the disease. Mass drug administration (MDA) has been proposed as one strategy to reduce transmission. The success of MDA is contingent upon high levels of acceptance among the target population. To inform the design of future MDA campaigns, this rapid ethnographic assessment examined malaria-related knowledge and attitudes toward malaria MDA among residents of a transmission focus in Santo Domingo.Methods: In October 2019, a rapid ethnographic assessment was conducted in the Los Tres Brazos transmission focus, which had not previously received MDA. National malaria program staff conducted 61 structured interviews with key informants, recorded observations, and held 72 informal conversations. Using a grounded theory approach, data were analyzed during three workshop sessions with research team members. Results: Among those who had heard of malaria in the structured interviews (n=39/61; 64%), understanding of the disease was largely based on personal experience from past outbreaks or through word-of-mouth. Community health workers (promotores) were trusted for health information and malaria diagnosis more so than professional clinicians. Neighborhood associations (juntas de vecinos) were seen as self-serving and politically corrupt. No participant (0%) was familiar with malaria MDA. After learning about MDA, almost all study participants (92%) said that they would participate, seeing it as a way to care for their community. Reasons for not participating in future MDA included not trusting drug administrators, feeling reluctant to take unprescribed medicine, and fear of missing work. Additional identified challenges to MDA included reaching specific demographic groups, disseminating effective MDA campaign messages, and managing misinformation and political influence. Conclusion: Residents appear accepting of MDA despite a lack of prior familiarity. Successful MDA will depend on several factors: fostering relationships among community-based health workers, clinicians, community leaders, and others; developing clear health messages that use local terms and spreading them through a variety of media and social networks; and contextualizing MDA as part of a broader effort to promote community health.
Is It Time to Recast India's Fiscal and Monetary Policy Frameworks?
Authors: Srivast Dinesh Kumar , Bharadwaj Muralikrishna , Kapur Tarrung , Trehan Ragini
Published: September 2020

With the onset of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, a number of macro parameters of the Indian economy have been thrown out of gear. The fiscal deficit on the combined account of centre and state governments in 2020-21 may increase to 11-12% of estimated GDP. Consequently, the combined debt-GDP ratio of the central and state government may reach close to 81% of GDP at the end of 2020-21, more than 20% points above the targeted threshold of 60% as per centre’s 2018 amendment to the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (FRBMA). The CPI inflation rate breached the upper tolerance limit of the monetary policy framework (MPF) in the last quarter of 2019-20 and the first quarter of 2020-21. In fact, India’s economic crisis predates the pandemic. The infirmities of the FRBMA and the MPF had already started becoming visible with 2019-20 real and nominal GDP growth rates plummeting to 4.2% and 7.2% respectively. It is high time that we consider recasting India’s fiscal and monetary policy frameworks. In this article, we review these frameworks, identify their inconsistencies, and consider remedial changes so as to serve India’ future needs and compulsions.
Do Informal Sector Businesses Support Women’s Livelihood? A Case of Butwal Sub-Metropolitan in Nepal
Authors: Devkota Jeevanath , Devkota Devaka
Published: September 2020

Informal sector business is rapidly increasing in Nepal. This paper examines the effect of informal businesses on women’s livelihood, which is not documented in the literature. This study uses primary data collected from the Butwal sub-metropolitan, Nawalparasi District, Province 5 of Nepal. Sample size is 300 women entrepreneurs. There is a positive correlation between income level and married as well as migrated women entrepreneurs. Logistic Regression result shows more educated women entrepreneurs are more likely to earn from their businesses in comparison to the less educated women. Qualitative analysis shows women are learning business doing skills. Most important, old aged women (around/over 60 years) should not depend on their son or daughter for bread and butter and for pocket money after starting such business.
A rare case of chest wall lipoma growing into the pleural cavity: a case report
Authors: Jang Hyo Joon , Choi Bu Hyeon , Park Seong Oh
Published: September 2020

Background: Several cases of lipoma in unusual locations in the thorax have been reported. Appropriate surgical treatment depending on the location and shape is often required.Case presentation: We herein report an extremely rare case of a chest wall lipoma growing into the pleural cavity. The tumor was successfully removed without damaging the capsule by a combination of direct and thoracoscopic approaches.Conclusions: Chest wall lipomas growing into pleural cavity can be successfully treated by a combination of direct and thoracoscopic approaches.
Hybrid Stepwise External Wrapping for Type A Acute Aortic Dissection with Cerebral Malperfusion
Authors: Suematsu Yoshihiro , Nishi Satoshi , Arima Daisuke , Yoshimoto Akihiro
Published: September 2020

Background: Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is a life-threatening condition which can lead to coronary, brachiocephalic or branch vessel malperfusion, as well as aortic valve insufficiency, or aortic rupture. Mortality of surgical treatment in high-risk or elderly patients with Type A AAD (TAAAD) still remains high, and treatment for such patients remains controversial. We report a successful treatment of TAAAD with a communicating false lumen in a 60-year-old man with acute hemi-cerebral malperfusion. Case presentation: The ascending aorta was wrapped with stepwise external wrapping (SEW) procedure, and subsequent thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) was successfully performed. The patient was discharged in good physical condition without any complications. Conclusions: Hybrid therapy with SEW and TEVAR with TAAAD associated with major cerebral malperfusion should be considered, especially in patients for whom open surgery is extremely risky.