bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting EQ-5D Index Scores from the PROMIS-29 Profile for the United Kingdom, France, and Germany
Authors: Klapproth Christoph Paul , Bebber Jan van , Gibbons Christopher J. , Valderas Jose M , Alain Leplege , Rose Matthias , Fischer Felix
Published: June 2020

Background: EQ-5D health utility (HU) scores are commonly used in health economics to compute quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). EQ-5D scores, which are country-specific, can be derived directly or by mapping from self-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) scales such as the PROMIS-29 profile. The PROMIS-29 from the Patient Reported Outcome Measures Information System is a comprehensive assessment of self-reported health with excellent psychometric properties. We sought to find optimal models for predicting EQ-5D scores from the PROMIS-29 in the United Kingdom, France, and Germany and compared the prediction performances with that of a US model.Methods: We collected EQ-5D-5L and PROMIS-29 profiles and three samples representative of the general populations in the UK (n=1,509), France (n=1,501), and Germany (n=1,502). We used stepwise regression with backward selection to find the best models to predict the EQ-5D score from all seven PROMIS-29 domains. We investigated the agreement between the observed and predicted EQ-5D scores in all three countries using various indices for the prediction performance, including Bland-Altman plots to examine the performance along the HU continuum.Results:The EQ-5D index scores were best predicted in Germany (RMSEGER = 0.10, MAEGER = 0.06), followed by France (RMSEFR = 0.11, MAEFR = 0.08) and the UK (RMSEUK = 0.12, MAEUK = 0.09). The Bland-Altman plots show that the inclusion of higher-order effects reduced the underprediction of low HU scores.Conclusions: Our models provide a valid method to predict EQ-5D-5L index scores from the PROMIS-29 for the UK, France, and Germany.
A Case Report of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia in a Patient One Month after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in the Era of Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: mungan ibrahim , izdeş seval
Published: June 2020

Background : Coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19), which evolved to a global pandemic issue leads to coagulation system abnormalities and low molecular heparin or unfractionated heparin is advised. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is one of the most worried complications of heparin exposure.Case Presentation: In this case report, we presented a 75 year- old male patient with suspicious COVID-19 infection who admitted to our intensive care unit one month after cardiac surgery. On admission due to increased D-dimer level and history of CABG, he was started to LMWH (enoxaparin) 0.5 mg/kg twice daily yet HIT occurred and enoxaparin was held. Fondaparinux was started to decrease the thrombosis risk.Conclusion: In the era of COVID-19, the management of coagulopathy is important while HIT should be mind in every patient after the preliminary heparin treatment.
Cross-national study of worrying, loneliness, and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: a comparison between individuals with and without infection in the family
Authors: Bonsaksen Tore , Leung Janni , Schoultz Mariyana , Thygesen Hilde , Price Daicia , Ruffolo Mary , Geirdal Amy Østertun
Published: June 2020

Background
As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, strict national policies regarding public behavior were implemented in countries throughout the world, including Europe, America and Australia. Social distancing became the main policy for public behavior, in effect imposing radical changes in people’s everyday life. Thus, mental health may be affected at the general population level and not only among those who have been infected by the disease or have witnessed family members or close ones fall ill.
Methods
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Norway, UK, USA and Australia during April/May 2020. Participants (n = 3810) were recruited via social media postings by the researchers and the involved universities. Differences between those with and without infection in the family were investigated with chi-square tests and independent t-tests. Multiple regression analyses were used to assess associations between sociodemographic variables and psychological outcomes (worry, loneliness and mental health) in both groups.
Results
Compared to their counterparts, participants with infection in the family reported higher levels of worries about themselves (p < 0.05) and their family members (p < 0.001), and had poorer mental health (p < 0.05). However, the effect sizes related to the differences were small. The largest effect (d = 0.24) concerned worries about their immediate family. Poorer psychological outcomes were observed in those who were younger, female, unemployed, living alone and had lower levels of edcuation, yet with small effect sizes.
Conclusions
In view of the small differences between those with and without infection, we generally conclude that the mental health effects of the COVID-19 situation are not limited to those who have been infected or have had infection within the family, but extend to the general population.
Knowledge, attitudes, practices, and the effects of COVID-19 on health seeking behaviors among young people in Kenya
Authors: Karijo Evalin , Wamugi Sylvia , Lemanyishoe Samuel , Njuki Jenny , Boit Faith , Kibui Vania , Karanja Sarah , Abuya Timothy
Published: June 2020

Background: The cases of Corona Virus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) in Kenya have been increasing rapidly, since the first case was confirmed in early March, 2020. In the wake of the crisis around COVID-19, the health and socio-economic challenges experienced by Kenya’s largest demography, the youth, are likely to elevated. This study sought to establish knowledge levels, gaps and attitude of the youth with regards to COVID-19 and identify the effects of the pandemic on health seeking behaviour and socio-economic status of youth.Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted among 2,153 youth across 47 counties in Kenya, through a combined online survey and phone interviews. All survey responses analyzed using STATA v15 were tabulated by gender, age, education level to generate basic descriptive tables and tested for differences by category using chi-square tests with a significance level of 0.05. Where applicable linear and logistic regression analysis model was conducted with covariates such as employment status, gender and education level were used.Results: Knowledge on symptoms of COVID-19 was generally high. Female respondents were more likely to name more symptoms correctly compared to men; p<0.001. However, youth reported very low levels of anyone being at risk of infection (7%). Since they started receiving messaging on COVID-19, most youth have adopted behavior necessary to slow down the infection. There were generally very low reported levels of inability to access health services related to sexual and reproductive health. About 50% of respondents reported significant decline in income during the pandemic period, while nearly a third reported living in fear while 27% reported feeling stressed.Conclusion: Our study revealed considerably high knowledge of COVID-19 symptoms, preventive strategies and most commonly sources of information that are instructive for the pandemic response. Findings suggest messaging campaigns should focus on reaching clarifying risk groups. The need to track health service use among youth is essential to lay longer term strategies towards minimizing potential long-term consequences of the pandemic. Strategies to sustain behaviors positively adopted and leverage the vast network of youth as champions of behavior change will be critical to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Retrospective Analysis of Articular Surface Defect Cases Caused by Pathological Fracture of Giant Cell Tumor of Distal Femur Treated With Three-Dimension-Printed Custom-Made Prostheses Versus Conventional Endoprosthesis Replacement: Three-Dimension-Printed Custom-Made Prostheses Have Better Function Outcome
Authors: Ji Yuqing , Wu Yuxian , Yang Qiang , Li Zhenfeng , Li Jianmin
Published: June 2020

Background: Pathological fracture of the distal femur giant cell tumor (GCT) occasionally leads to articular surface defect. The conventional endoprosthesis replacement needs to remove the both condyles, and then the patients probably face lower prosthesis survival rate and multiple joint replacement, especially in young patients. The aims of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of 3D-printed custom-made prosthesis in repairing the articular surface defect at a short-term follow-up.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed fourteen patients admitted and treated from January 2012 to January 2018 with mean age of 43.9 years (range 29 to 69 years). Diagnoses were primary pathological fracture of distal femur giant cell tumor (GCT) which articular surface of one condyle is defect. 10 lesions were located in medial femoral condyle and 16 in Lateral femoral condyle. Twelve patients were treated with three-dimension-printed custom-made prosthesis to repaired of articular surface defect (3D-printed group), and the other Fourteen patients were treated with endoprosthesis replacement (EPR group). Operation time, blood loss was compared between the groups. Functional results were assessed with MSTS score. The range of motion (ROM), local recurrences and complications were statistically compared.Results: Mean Follow-up is 33.5 months (range 26 to 43 months). In the 3D-printed group, operation time and blood loss were significantly less (p < 0.05). Differences in functional outcomes of the MSTS were observed between the two groups from three-month follow-up (p < 0.05) to twenty-four-month follow-up (p < 0.05), and the score were higher in the 3D-printed group than the EPR group. The ROM of the 3D-printed group was statistically better than the EPR group at 6 and 9 months after operation (p < 0.05). Local recurrence and complication rates were similar in the two groups (p = 1).Conclusion: 3D-printed custom-made prosthesis represent a promising reconstructive technique in articular surface defect caused by pathological fracture of GCT of distal femur. It could be able to achieve satisfactory oncological and better short-term functional results compared with endoprosthesis replacement. Further studies are needed to evaluate the stability of the implants and the wear of the articular surface with larger samples at long-term.
WITHDRAWN: Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Deployment Behaviour of Folded Fin Mechanism based on the Dynamic Loading Conditions
Authors: AVCI MURAT , TAGA ÖZER , KELEŞ ÖMER
Published: June 2020

In this study, the friction and damping values ​​that arise during the deployment of the folded fin mechanism were obtained based on the experimental data. Although there are recommended values ​​for friction in the literature, damping is a phenomenon that varies from system to system and must be obtained through test data. In this study, firstly, the mechanism was operated on the test device with a specific drive pressure and the actual drive pressure generated in the system was measured. The dynamic behaviour of the mechanism was recorded by a High-Speed camera system as well. Adams MBD (multi-body dynamics) was used to define the mechanism model and drive pressure data from the test was defined as input to the model. With the help of Adams DOE (Design of Experiments), certain intervals were defined for friction and damping, multiple analyses were carried out at the friction and damping intervals defined and total deployment time of the mechanism and the dynamic behaviours it exhibited during deployment were obtained. From these numerical results obtained, friction and damping values ​​were obtained based on the model with the highest correlation and test results. The same mechanism was tested for different drive pressures with the specified friction and damping values ​​and the results were compared to the numerical models. It was decided that the friction and damping values ​​determined as a result of the comparison could be used in future numerical analyses.
Characterization of the Immune Response in Patients Infected with Clostridioides Difficile Due to Serum Biomarkers' Level with Correlation to Clinical Characteristics and Bacterial Toxin Production
Authors: Gotshal Dor , Azrad Maya , Hamo Zohar , Nitzan Orna , Peretz Avi
Published: June 2020

Background: Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) have a high risk for complications up to death which requires identifying patients with severe disease and treating them accordingly. We examined the serum level of 6 cytokines and chemokines (IL-6, IL-21, IL-23, IL-33, BCA-1, TRAIL) and we checked the correlation between them to the patients' clinical characteristics and the bacterial strain.Methods: Concentrations of 6 cytokines and chemokines were measured using the MILLIPLEX®MAP kit (Billerica, USA) based on the Luminex xMAP® technology, in serum samples, attained from 54 CDI patients within a median time of 24-48 hours after laboratory confirmation of C. difficile presence. The demographic and clinical data were retrospectively collected from medical records. Disease severity score was determined according to the guidelines of the "Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America and the Infectious Diseases Society of America" (SHEA-IDSA).Results: Out of 54 patients (mean age, 76.6 years, 61.1% female), 20 (37%) had mild to moderate disease and 34 (63%) had severe disease. Two immunological markers were associated with a more severe disease: IL-16 (p = 0.005) and BCA-1 (p = 0.012). The study didn’t show a correlation between the immunological markers to the gender, the type of toxin which produced by the bacteria, in hospital mortality and infection acquisition.Conclusions: cytokines and chemokines may serve as a biomarker for early prediction of CDI severity in the future. Improved and more accessible assessment of CDI severity will contribute to adjustment of the medical treatment which will lead to a better patient outcome and hopefully will reduce the patient's mortality.
Ral GTPases targeted by miR-215-5p promote lung cancer proliferation and migration
Authors: Zhu Hao , Cui Shufang , Fan Gentao , Zhang Jing , Hua Xiaofeng , Zhu Yan , Jin Yuanhan , Cao Lili , Zhang Junliang , Zhou Xing , Zhou Guangxin
Published: June 2020

Background

The Ras-like guanosine triphosphatases (Ral GTPases) belongs to the Ras superfamily of small GTPases. Ras mutations occur in more than one in three human tumors. However, treatments acting directly on Ras post-translational modifications were developed and have been manufactured for many years, although they have demonstrated poor clinical performance. Ral GTPases include RalA and RalB, seem to be a new potential pathway downstream of mutant Ras.
Methods

In this study, we examined protein and mRNA level of Ral GTPases in lung specimens from 12 lung cancer patients using Western Blot and RT-PCR. The effects of RalA and RalB on the proliferation and migration were examined by functional tests in vitro and in vivo. The binding site in miR-215-5p and RalA or RalB was predicted using bioinformatics software and proved by Western Blot, RT-PCR and luciferase assay. The effect of miR-215-5p on RalA and RalB were examined in cell lines and xenograft mice.
Results

Here, we reported that miR-215-5p was downregulated in human lung cancer tissues compared with noncancerous tissues, whereas the expression level of Ral GTPases was higher. We further verified that the negative regulation of Ral GTPases by miR-215-5p could inhibit the proliferation and migration of lung cancer in vitro and in vivo.
Conclusion

In this study, we reported that RalA and RalB promote lung cancer proliferation and migration. Moreover, we identified miR-215-5p as a tumor suppressor that targets Ral GTPases. Our results may offer therapeutic opportunities in lung cancer.
An immune-related lncRNA signature as a prognostic immunotherapy target for colon cancer
Authors: Wu Bin , Yao Yi , Dong Yi , Yang Si Qi , Zhou Deng Jing , Xiao Meng Xia , Song Qi Bin
Published: June 2020

Background：We aimed to investigate an immune-related long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) signature that may be exploited as a potential immunotherapy target in colon cancer. Materials and methods: Colon cancer samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) containing available clinical information and complete genomic mRNA expression data were used in our study. We then constructed immune-related lncRNA co-expression networks to identify the most promising immune-related lncRNAs. According to the risk score developed from screened immune-related lncRNAs, the high-risk and low-risk groups were separated on the basis of the median risk score, which served as the cutoff value. An overall survival analysis was then performed to confirm that the risk score developed from screened immune-related lncRNAs could predict colon cancer prognosis. The prediction reliability was further evaluated in the independent prognostic analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). A principal component analysis (PCA) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed for functional annotation. Results: Information for a total of 514 patients was included in our study. After multiplex analysis, 12 immune-related lncRNAs were confirmed as a signature to evaluate the risk scores for each patient with cancer. Patients in the low-risk group exhibited a longer overall survival (OS) than those in the high-risk group. Additionally, the risk scores were an independent factor, and the Area Under Curve (AUC) of ROC for accuracy prediction was 0.726. Moreover, the low-risk and high-risk groups displayed different immune statuses based on principal components and gene set enrichment analysis.﻿Conclusions: Our study suggested that the signature consisting of 12 immune-related lncRNAs can provide an accessible approach to measuring the prognosis of colon cancer and may serve as a valuable antitumor immunotherapy.
Early Diagnosis Of Postoperative Delirium In Patients Who Underwent General Surgery
Authors: oluş fatih , gündüz emel , arıcı gülbin
Published: June 2020

Objective: Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common postoperative complication. This study aimed to diagnose POD early primarily in patients who underwent General Surgery. This study also aimed to shorten the duration of hospital stays, prevent re-hospitalization after discharge and decrease the rates of morbidity/mortality through investigating the relationship with the characteristics of the patients/surgery/anesthesia in patients diagnosed with postoperative delirium in an early period. Material and Methods: Data of 303 patients at the age of 18 and above who were operated by General Surgery Clinic between March 2018 and May 2018, who were followed up by the Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation for preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative periods and who received general anesthesia were included in the study.Patients’ demographic data, occupation, educational status, income level, additional diseases, ASA (American Society of Anesthesia) score, previous surgeries, history of a psychiatric or neurological disease, history of alcohol, cigarette, or drug use, and memory problems were recorded. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to identify preoperative mental levels of the patients. Diagnosis of the patient, name, duration and features of the surgery to be performed, whether the surgery was urgent or elective, drugs used, type of catheterization (artery, central, foley or nasogastric), Hb value, intraoperative vital findings, and duration of postoperative discharge were recorded. The diagnosis of POD in patients was evaluated with Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). Results: POD developed in 2-6% (8 patients) of the patients. A significant relationship was recorded between the diagnosis of POD and age and additional diseases (ASA score). Results showed that the risk of delirium decreased as the education levels of the patients increased. A significant relationship was recorded between delirium and only midazolam among anesthetic agents used. A significant relationship was recorded among hypercarbia that developed during the surgery, invasive procedures, prolonged duration of surgery and hospitalizations in Intensive Care Units and Post-Anesthesia Care Units.Conclusion: The rate of POD (2.6%) and risk factors determined for POD within the first three days in our study were in compliance with literature. Diagnosing POD with CAM in an early postoperative period was advantageous. The treatment planning of the patients for POD could be done in the early period. By doing this, increase in mortality, morbidity and cost as a result of missing the diagnosis of POD was prevented.
Higher Blood Alcohol Concentration is Related to Less Severe Injury Amongst Intoxicated Trauma Patients
Authors: Kumar Nikathan , Prabhakaran Kartik , McIntyre Matthew K. , Samson David J. , Latifi Rifat
Published: June 2020

Background

Previous studies show varied results regarding the protective effects of alcohol intoxication upon injury and mortality in the setting of trauma. Our study aimed to determine the effects of blood alcohol content (BAC) amongst trauma patients with alcohol ingestion, upon injury type and severity, as well as outcomes.
Methods

This 4-year retrospective study (2013–2017) used an institutional trauma database to capture all Level 1 and 2 trauma patients (≥14 years old) with BAC > 10 mg/dL presenting to the emergency department at a Level 1 trauma center. Demographic variables including mechanism of injury (MOI) were collected. Patients’ BAC was compared to their calculated injury severity scores (ISS) and abbreviated injury scale (AIS) scores. Analysis included linear regression, T-tests and ANOVAs with Tukey’s post-hoc analysis for continuous variables and Fisher’s exact test for binary variables. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of injury severity.
Results

332 intoxicated patients were identified (mean BAC: 210.2±87.14 mg/dL, range 12.7–460.0; 74.1% male; median age 35; range: 16–90). The median ISS was 6 (range: 1–48). Patients in motor vehicle collisions had lower BACs (186.0±5.59 mg/dL) than those who fell (233.8±10.42 mg/dL, p = 0.0002), were assaulted (230.4±14.04 mg/dL, p = 0.0261), or were pedestrians struck (259.4±14.17 mg/dL, p = 0.004). Overall, patients with higher BAC had lower GCS, lower ISS, and shorter intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, but no differences in hospital stay, or ventilator days.
Conclusions

Trauma patients with higher BAC have lower ISS, less severe chest injury, and shorter ICU stays. These findings suggest that higher levels of alcohol ingestion may portend a protective effect in the setting of trauma with respect to severity of injury that does not mitigate the importance of education and injury prevention but warrants further study into the physiology of alcohol and trauma.
Potential Phytochemical Inhibitors of the Coronavirus RNA Dependent RNA Polymerase: A Molecular Docking Study
Authors: P Ardra. , Singh Prachi , VR Hariprasad , UV Babu , Rafiq Mohamed , Rao Raghavendra Pralhada
Published: June 2020

The COVID-19 disease that originated in China by the end of 2019 has now become a pandemic and has affected 216 countries as on 08 June 2020. RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), the core enzyme in the multiprotein replicase-transcriptase complex of coronaviruses, serves as a classical target for inhibiting the coronavirus infectivity. In this study we performed molecular docking of sixty-nine different phytochemical compounds from various herbs with RdRp of both SARS-CoV-2 and its predecessor SARS-CoV. Our results show that various phytochemical constituents from Withania somnifera root extract, Hyssopus officinalis and Camellia sinensis leaf extract have high binding affinity towards RdRps and are comparable to the small molecule drug remdesivir. Their binding interactions reveal that they bind to the amino acid residues involved in nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) entry and recognition site and metal ion cofactor chelating site of both SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV. Hence they are different from the classical nucleotide analog inhibitors of RdRp. This study paves a quick platform for development of targeted therapy using phytochemicals for COVID-19 and other potential SARS coronavirus related outbreaks in future.
Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Racial, Ethnic, and Socioeconomic Disparities in COVID-19
Authors: Khanijahani Ahmad , Gholipour Kamal , Azami-Aghdash Saber , Iezadi Shabnam
Published: June 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A processing method for kinematics data of human knee joint obtained by motion-capture measurement
Authors: Wang Jian-Ping , Wang Shi-hua , Zhao Xuan , Hu Hai , Wang Yan-qing , Liu Jin-lai , Chen Xu , Li Yu
Published: June 2020

Background: The data obtained by motion capture method is many and complex, so it is the key to find an efficient method to process the data. Therefore，to develop a processing method for kinematics data of human knee joint by programming on MATLAB software. Methods: The coordinate data of markers on human lower limb measured by motion capture system were firstly read and repaired through the program. Then the coordinate data of anatomical points in the movement of human lower limb were obtained by program processing. The local coordinate systems of human femur and tibia were established with anatomical points. After that the flexion/extension, abduction/adduction and internal/external rotation of human knee tibiofemoral joint in the movement of lower limb were obtained by coordinate transformation. Lastly, the motion capture and measurement of healthy volunteers were carried out and the MATLAB program was used for data processing. Results: Using the above methods, motion capture measurements and batch data processing were carried out on squatting and ascending stairs of 29 healthy volunteers to obtain the motion characteristics of the knee joint. As follows, the maximum range of internal and external rotation in squatting is 30.5 degrees, and the maximum range of internal and external rotation in climbing stairs is 16.5 degrees, etc., respectively compared with the results processed by other research methods, it is found that their movement results are basically consistent, thus verifying the reliability of our research method. Conclusion: The kinematics data of human knee joint could be processed accurately and effectively with the method by using MATLAB software, and the kinematics characteristics of human knee tibiofemoral joint were obtained. The processing method provides a reference for the designing and optimization of knee prosthesis, and the program can be modified for different purposes. At the same time, it is helpful to study knee joint movement of patients after total knee arthroplasty.
Preliminary findings on the relationship between gender, FTO rs9939609, leptin & ghrelin levels and eating behaviours of adults
Authors: AĞAGÜNDÜZ DUYGU , GEZMEN-KARADAĞ Makbule
Published: June 2020

Background
The single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and mutations in the
first intron of the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene
(rs9939609) have been reported to be associated with obesity and
eating behaviour in children and adults in widespread populations.
This study was conducted to determine the relationship between FTO
gene polymorphism and eating behaviour in adults with different
genders.
Methods
The present study included 200 participants (100 males,100
females) aged 18-65 years, who were genotyped for FTO gene
(rs9939609) polymorphism. Eating behaviour were evaluated via
revised 18-item of the three-factor eating questionnaire(TFEQ-R18).
Serum leptin& ghrelin were analysed. ABI TaqMan SNP Genotyping
Assays (LightCycler 480 System, Roche) was used to determine the
intronic FTO gene rs9939609 (T/A) SNPs.
Results
Total 68.4% of individuals with AA genotype which was homozygote
risky genotype for obesity were female and 31.6% were
male(p<0.05). When eating behaviour scores of individuals
according to genders, the difference between the cognitive
restraint scores (M:16.7±2.74 vs. F:16.1±2.34; p<0.05) and
emotional eating score(M:10.2±2.26 vs. F:8.5±2.84) was
statistically significant(p<0.05). However, there was no
statistically significant difference between the total scores of
the TFEQ-R18 of males and females (p>0.05). When examining
eating behaviour scores of individuals according to genotypes; it
was found that no statistically significant difference between the
sub-dimensions and total scores of TFEQ-R18. However, total score
of TFEQ-R18 was negatively associated with the serum leptin in
females with AA genotype(p<0.05), and positively associated with
the serum ghrelin levels in males with TT genotype(p<0.05).
Conclusion
It was determined that eating behaviours in adults differed by
gender rather than genotypes of FTO gene (rs9939609) polymorphism
and gender was important factor for eating behaviour related to FTO
gene rs9939609 genotypes in association with serum leptin-ghrelin
level.
Soybean Oligosaccharides Supplementation Attenuates the Fecal Odor Compounds by Modulate the Cecal Microbiota of Broilers
Authors: Liu Haiying , Li Xin , Zhu Xin , Dong Weiguo , Yang Guiqin
Published: June 2020

Background: Abatement of odor emissions in poultry production is very important for the quality and safety in poultry industries and benefit to the environment.Methods: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the dietary supplementation of different levels soybean oligosaccharides (SBO) in comparison with chlortetracycline (CHL) on major odor-causing compound in excreta and cecal microbiota of broiler chickens. One-day-old broiler chickens were assigned to 6 treatments with 6 replicate pens (10 birds/pen) for the 42-day experiment, including, the negative control (NC) fed a basal diet, the positive control (PC) fed a basal diet with CHL, and the basal diet with SBO at 0.5, 2.0, 3.5, and 5.0 g/kg, respectively. Fresh excreta was sampled for analysis odor compounds by high performance liquid chromatography. Cecum content was collected to analyze the cecal microbiota by 16S rRNA sequencing. Results: The excreta indole concentration of broilers fed 2.0, 3.5 and 5.0 g/kg SBO and CHL diets were significantly decreased (P < 0.01) compared to NC. Excreta skatole concentration (P < 0.001) and pH (P < 0.05) were decreased by SBO and CHL. Formate concentration of birds fed 3.5 and 5.0 g/kg SBO diets were higher than that of birds fed other diets (P < 0.001). The acetate concentration (P = 0.003) were increased in birds fed 3.5 g/kg SBO diet. Deep sequencing 16S rRNA revealed that the composition of the cecal microbial digesta slightly or significantly changed by the supplementation of SBO or CHL. SBO decreased the abundance of Bacteroides, Bilophila, and Escherichia, which were related to indole and skatole concentration of excreta. While CHL had strong tendency to enrich Ruminococcus and reduce Rikenella. Conclusion: These results indicated that supplementation of dietary SBO was beneficial in attenuating the concentration of odor causing compounds and impact the composition cecal microbiota of broilers.
Periodic Curcumin Monoglucuronide Injections Ameliorate Structural Osteoarthritis Changes in Rats with Destabilized Medial Meniscus
Authors: Nakahata Akihiro , Ito Akira , Nakahara Ryo , Kishimoto Atsuhiro , Imaizumi Atsushi , Hashimoto Tadashi , Mukai Shogo , Nakagawa Yasuaki , Kuroki Hiroshi
Published: June 2020

Background: Curcumin has anti-inflammatory effects. However, curcumin is poorly water-soluble, and when administered orally, formscurcumin conjugates with poor efficacy.Curcumin monoglucuronide (TBP1901) is highly water-soluble and can existinthe free-form in a greater proportion than curcumin in vivo. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of intra-articular TBP1901 injections fora rat model of osteoarthritis (OA).Methods: Sixty-four male Wistar rats (12weeks old) that had receivedthe destabilized medial meniscus(DMM) surgery, were randomly separatedinto the TBP1901 injectionandthe saline solution injection (control) group. They were sacrificedat 1, 2, 6, or 10weeks postoperatively(n = 8 for each). The TBP1901 (30mg/mL) andsaline solutionof 50μLwere administered to the knee joint through the patella tendon twice a week for the rats sacrificedat1 and 2weeks or once a week for at6 and 10weeks. The OA changes were evaluated by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), histology, and immunohistochemical analysis.Results:Curcumin fluorescence was confirmed in the articular cartilageand synovium of rats with TBP1901 injections at all observation periods.The TBP1901injections significantly reducedthe synovial inflammation at 1 and 2 weeks and the expression of TNFα in thetibialarticular cartilage at 6 weeks postoperatively.Moreover, TBP1901 injections ameliorated the articular cartilage structure, the subchondral bone (SB) plate thickness, and perforations from 6 to 10 weeks.As a result, there were significant differencesbetween groups in OA scores, SB plate thickness, and perforations at 10 weeks postoperatively.In addition, osteophyte formation in the TBP1901group was significantly suppressed after 10 weeks.Conclusion: This study reports the first evidence that TBP1901 injections suppress inflammation and osteophyte formation, and ameliorate the articular cartilage and SB pathologies by absorption in the articular cartilage and synovium in a rat DMM model.Therefore, intra-articular injections of TBP1901may be effective in improving OA pathology.
Prognostic Value of Combined Detection of Serum and Pleural Fluid Tumor Markers in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer With Malignant Pleural Effusion
Authors: Xie Li-Xu , Jiang Shi-Chang , Chen Zi , Jiang Shu-Juan , Wang Xing-Guang , Zhou Lin-Fu
Published: June 2020

Background: Serum tumor markers are considered a negative prognostic factor in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Combined detection of serum and pleural fluid (PF) tumor markers is rarely reported. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between combined detection of serum and pleural fluid (SPF) tumor markers and prognosis in advanced NSCLC.Results: High levels of SPF CEA (P = 0.001) , SPF CYFRA21-1 (P = 0.001) and SPF CA-125 (P = 0.023) were adversely prognostic factors for overall survival (OS). High levels of SPF CEA (P = 0.003) , SPF CYFRA21-1 (P = 0.001) and SPF NSE (P = 0.019) were related to worse progression-free survival (PFS). In multivariate analysis high levels of SPF CYFRA21-1 was a independent predictor of OS and high levels of SPF CEA and SPF CYFRA21-1 were independent predictors of PFS.Conclusions: High levels of SPF CEA and SPF CYFRA21-1 are correlated with worse survival in advanced NSCLC patients with MPE. The identification of prognostic factors maybe useful in stratifying high-risk populations and will assist the choice of treatment planning.
Reprogramming of mouse embryonic fibroblasts into induced oligodendrocyte progenitor cells via nanovector-mediated indirect lineage conversion
Authors: Xiao Xiong , Ling Wen-Hui , Qiu Xiao-Yan , Wang Ming-Yu , Xiong Chun-Xia , Xie Deng-Feng , Chu Xin-Yue , Li Yun-Xin , Huang Yun , Li Tong , Li Yue-Min
Published: June 2020

Background: Axon-wrapping myelin sheath is vital to nerve conduction, loss or dysfunction of it will result in some neurological diseases. Since mature oligodendrocytes (OLs) lack proliferation ability, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) maintain slow proliferation or quiescence state, transplantation of exogenous OPCs becomes an alternative strategy for curing these diseases. Methods: OPCs were isolated from brain tissue and generated from NIH/3T3 cells via indirect lineage conversion here. Results: 0.25 % chicken serum was conducive to trypsin-mediated digestion of cerebral cortex, the modified shaking method could improve the purification efficiency of OPCs. Poly-MAG was a safer and higher efficient nanovector for delivering plasmid DNA into cells. Forced expressions of Olig 2, Nkx 6.2, and Sox 10 could attenuate the expressions of fibroblast-related genes (Col5a1 and Col1a1), up-regulate OPC-associated genes (PDGFRα, S100β, NG2, and Olig 2), and finally successfully reprogram NIH/3T3 cells into induced oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (iOPCs). 1 μM haloperidol (HAL) contributed to promoting the proliferation of iOPCs. These iOPCs had the potential to be differentiated into OLs and type Ⅱ astrocytes. Conclusions: The high-efficiency and low-cytotoxicity strategies for isolating mouse primary OPCs and generating iOPCs were established, which provided novel cell resources for disease modeling, drug screening, cell therapy, and so on.
Looking into mechanisms of change: Evaluation of a multifaceted implementation strategy to change pain management behavior of care workers
Authors: Brunkert Thekla , Simon Michael , Zúñiga Franziska
Published: June 2020

BackgroundUnderutilization of evidence-based pain management in nursing homes is common. Evidence towards effective approaches to improve adoption of evidence-based practices in nursing homes is limited. To get a better understanding of the impact of our multi-faceted implementation strategies, care worker training workshops and the introduction of trained pain champions, this study explored the underlying mechanisms of the implementation strategies using behavioral theory.MethodsWe conducted a mixed-methods evaluation alongside an implementation- effectiveness study in four Swiss nursing homes. Based on an a priori contextual analysis in the participating homes implementation strategies were developed. Furthermore, we developed a conceptual framework describing hypotheses concerning determinants of implementation and mechanisms of change underlying our implementation strategies.Care workers’ questionnaire surveys were conducted at baseline (n=136), after three (n= 99) and six months (n=83) to assess self-efficacy in pain management and self-reported guideline adoption. We computed linear mixed-effect models to assess changes over time in self-efficacy and logistic regressions to assess associations between self-efficacy and guideline adoption. Concurrently, we conducted focus groups with care workers (n=8) to explore their response to the implementation strategies and to gain a deeper understanding of the potential mechanisms. After transcription, interview data was analyzed using content analysis.ResultsOverall, there was a significant increase in self-efficacy after three and six months (p<0.001). Self-reported adoption of guideline components ranged between 44% and 73% depending on the component. We found significant associations between self-efficacy and adoption of two guideline components, i.e. performing a comprehensive pain assessment and using an observational pain assessment tool in cognitively impaired residents.Qualitative findings showed that the training workshops and pain champions were received positively by care workers. Focus group participants reported to be more attentive to residents` pain experience and to assess and document pain more frequently and with more detail than before.ConclusionsOur findings highlight the importance of continuous commitment of an implementation facilitator, e.g., a pain champion, within an organization. Regarding persistent implementation challenges, a theory-based conceptual model contributes to the overall understanding.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03471390)
Long-Term Survival After Carpentier-Edwards Perimount Aortic Valve Replacement in Denmark: A Multi-Centre Observational Study
Authors: Krasniqi Lytfi , Kronby Mads Philip , Riber Lars Peter Schødt
Published: June 2020

Background: This study describes the long-term survival, risk of reoperation and clinical outcomes for patients undergoing solitary surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) with a Carpentier-Edwards Perimount (CE-P) bioprosthetic in Denmark. The renewed interest in SAVR is based on the questioning regarding the long-term survival since new aortic replacement technique such as transcatheter aortic-valve replacement (TAVR) probably have shorter durability, why assessment of long-term survival could be a key issue for patients.Methods: From November 1999 to November 2015 a cohort of a total of 1604 patients aged 20-91 undergoing solitary SAVR with CE-P in Western Denmark was obtained November 2018 from the Western Danish Heart Registry (WDHR). The primary endpoint was long-term survival from all-cause mortality. Secondary endpoints were survival free from major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events (MACCE), risk of reoperation, cause of late death, patient-prothesis mismatch, risk of AMI, stroke, pacemaker or ICD implantation and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). Time-to event analysis was performed with Kaplan-Meier curve, cumulative incidence function was performed with Nelson-Aalen cumulative hazard estimates. Cox regression was applied to detect risk factors for death and reoperation.Results: In-hospital mortality was 2.7% and 30-day mortality at 3.4%. The 5-, 10- and 15-year survival from all-cause mortality was 77%, 52% and 24%, respectively. Survival without MACCE was 80% after 10 years. Significant risk factors of mortality were small valves, smoking and EuroSCORE II ≥4%. The risk of reoperation was <5% after 7.5 years and significant risk factors were valve prosthesis-patient mismatch and EuroSCORE II ≥4%.Conclusions: Patients operated with for aortic valve replacement with a Carpentier-Edwards Perimount valve shows a very satisfying long-term survival. Future research should aim to investigate biological valves long-term durability for comparison of different SAVR to different TAVR in long perspective.
Mutation of OsGUN4 Uncoupled the Sugar-dependent Signals to Regulate Starch Biosynthesis in Rice
Authors: Li Ruiqing , Jiang Meng , Li Min , Zhang Huali
Published: June 2020

Background

Starch biosynthesis requires plastid-to-nucleus signals to ordinate the flow of carbon, which is partly mediated by tetrapyrrole intermediates. We previously revealed that mutation of the Genomes Uncoupled 4 (OsGUN4) would affect tetrapyrrole intermediates, but the underlying mechanisms for regulatory roles of OsGUN4 on starch biosynthesis remains largely unknown.
Results

In this study, we revealed that the OsGUN4 mutation not only retarded the carbon flow from sucrose to starch but also disabled the sensitive response to exogenous feeding sucrose. Moreover, extra addition of norflurazon (NF) would aggravate insensitivity to the sucrose-dependent induction in gun4epi, especially exhibiting collapse declines of the starch biosynthetic enzymes’ activities. However, genes encoding starch synthetic enzymes performed discordance with the activities of starch biosynthesis associated enzymes upon on the scarce expression of OsGUN4 in gun4epi. These results indicated that OsGUN4 played regulatory roles on biosynthetic genes and enzyme activity in starch biosynthesis. Furthermore, we also concluded that 1O2 derived from GUN4/protoporphyrin IX (proto) might be responsible for the sugar-dependent signals to regulate starch biosynthesis, due to positive correlations between the singlet oxygen (1O2) and many starch biosynthetic genes that were subjected to the control of three reported transcriptional factors (TFs) during starch biosynthesis. Eventually, the OsGUN4 mutation would also relieve the repression of glucose on Snf1-related protein kinases (SnRK1) but seem to negatively mediate the functioning of ADP-Glc pyrophosphorylase (AGPase).
Conclusion

In summary, we demonstrated that OsGUN4 serve as a broker to activate 1O2-mediated signals in the sugar signaling cascade, possibly functioning upstream through TFs, and that OsGUN4 played roles in the SnRK1A-mediated signals, partly through the accumulations of sugars, e.g. glucose or sucrose.
Identification of Prognostic Biomarkers and Immunotherapeutic Targets with CXC Chemokines in Glioblastoma Multiforme Using Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis
Authors: Liu Hailing , Zhu Jinguang , Wang Guangwen
Published: June 2020

Background Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most malignant central nervous system tumour bearing a dismal prognosis. The study aimed to explore the potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets with CXC chemokines in GBM by integrated bioinformatics analysis.Methods Differentially expressed CXC Chemokines were identified in GBM using GEPIA and UALCAN databases,and Kaplan–Meier analyses were performed by GEPIA subsequently. Protein -protein interaction (PPI) network was established in STRING database. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways analysis were utilized to analyze differentially expressed CXC Chemokines and their similar genes gained from GEPIA. Then, we conducted transcription factors, kinase targets, and immune cells infiltration using TRRUST, LinkedOmics, and TIMER, respectively.Results The mRNA expression levels of CXCL3/5/6/9/10/11/12/13/16 in GMB were significantly elevated compared to normal tissues. GBM patients with higher transcriptional levels of CXCL5/6 were significantly associated with worse disease-free survival, while higher transcriptional levels of CXCL3/5/8 were significantly related to worse overall survival. The functions of CXC chemokines were enriched in Chemokine signaling pathway, Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, IL-17 signaling pathway, et.al. RELA and NFKB1were key transcription factors of CXC chemokines. The kinase targets of CXC chemokine contained CDK1, CDK2, PRKCD, MAPK14, ATM, LCK, MTOR, and GRK3, which are involved in oncogenesis, migration, and survival. Moreover, we revealed significant correlations between the expression of CXC chemokines and the infiltration immune cells, especially for dendritic cells.Conclusion The significant CXC chemokines and related pathways may provide a novel possibility for prognostic biomarkers and immunotherapeutic treatment in GMB.Short title: CXC Chemokines with prognosis in GBM
Establishment of Prediction Models for venous thromboembolism in non-oncological urological inpatients--a single center experience
Authors: Li Kaixuan , Li Haozhen , Zhu Quan , Wu Ziqiang , Wang Zhao , Tang Zhengyan
Published: June 2020

Background

To establish prediction models for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in non-oncological urological inpatients.
Methods

A retrospective analysis of 1453 inpatients was carried out and the risk factors for VTE had been clarified our previous studies.
Results

Risk factors included the following 5 factors: presence of previous VTE (X1), presence of anticoagulants or anti-platelet agents treatment before admission (X2), D-dimer value (≥ 0.89 µg/ml, X3), presence of lower extremity swelling (X4), presence of chest symptoms (X5). The logistic regression model is Logit (P) = − 5.970 + 2.882 * X1 + 2.588 * X2 + 3.141 * X3 + 1.794 * X4 + 3.553 * X5. When widened the p value to not exceeding 0.1 in multivariate logistic regression model, two addition risk factors were enrolled: Caprini score (≥ 5, X6), presence of complications (X7). The prediction model turns into Logit (P) = − 6.433 + 2.696 * X1 + 2.507 * X2 + 2.817 * X3 + 1.597 * X4 + 3.524 * X5 + 0.886 * X6 + 0.963 * X7. Internal verification results suggest both two models have a good predictive ability, but the prediction accuracy turns to be both only 43.0% when taking the additional 291 inpatients’ data in the two models.
Conclusion

We built two similar novel prediction models to predict VTE in non-oncological urological inpatients.
Trial registration:
This trial was retrospectively registered at http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx under the public title“The incidence, risk factors and establishment of prediction model for VTE n urological inpatients” with a code ChiCTR1900027180 on November 3, 2019. (Specific URL to the registration web page: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=44677).