bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socio-Demographic, Economic and Clinical predictors of HAART Adherence Competence for HIV Positive adults at Felege Hiwot Teaching and Specialized Hospital, North West Ethiopia
Authors: Tegegne Awoke Seyoum
Published: September 2019

Background : Currently, around 36.7 million people in the world are living with HIV. Among these, 52% are living in sub-Saharan African. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has played an important role in improving the prognosis and quality of life of HIV/AIDS patients, and in reducing the rate of disease progression and death. Several previous researches on factors affecting HAART adherence competence had controversies. As far as the author’s knowledge concerned, no research had been conducted on longitudinal HAART adherence competence in the study area. The main objective of this study was to identify Socio-demographic and Clinical factors associated with HAART adherence competence in successive visits among adult HIV patients after commencement of HAART. Methods : A retrospective cohort study on 792 HAART attendants was conducted to analyze the current study for HIV positive adults who had a minimum of two clinical visits. Secondary data were employed to examine Socio-demographic, economic, individual and clinical factors affecting the variable of interest overtime among HAART users. The Structural Equation modeling (SEM) was applied to identify predictors of HAART adherence competence over time. Results : In this longitudinal study, factors affecting long-term HAART adherence competence in successive visits had been identified. Socio-demographic factors (like Marital status, level of disclosure of the disease, residence area, education, economic factors (owner ship of cell phone, household income), individual factors (age, sex, weight) and clinical factors (CD4 cell count, WHO stages), directly associated with retention of HAART medication care. On the other hand, HAART medication care was significantly and independently associated with the longitudinal HAART adherence competence. Conclusion : The HAART adherence competence in successive visits increased with the number of follow-up visits, but the rate of increase was different for different groups such as male & female, urban & rural, and disclosing & hiding the disease to family members. An integrated health related education should be given for poor adherent patients like rural residents, males, patients living without partners, patients with no cell phone and aged patients.
HIV screening in men and women in Senegal: coverage and associated factors analysis of the 2017 demographic and health survey
Authors: Lakhe Ndeye Aissatou , Mbaye Khardiata Diallo , Sylla Khadime , Ndour Cheikh Tidiane
Published: September 2019

Introduction Despite the adoption of the provider-initiated HIV testing strategy, the rate of HIV testing is still very low in sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to assess the factors associated with HIV testing among in sexually active women and men in Senegal. Knowledge of HIV status is the gateway to antiretroviral treatment.Methods A secondary analysis of the 2017 Senegal Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) was performed, using data on sexually active women age 15-49 and men age 15-59. The outcome variable was the proportion of women and men who reported ever being tested for HIV in the last 12 months before the survey. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the socio-demographic, HIV-knowledge, media exposure, and behavioral factors associated with HIV testing in Senegal.Results The study found that 62% of women and 27% of men were tested for HIV at the last 12 months. In multivariate analysis, among men the factors independently associated with being tested for HIV were: older age group (50-54); a high level of education; being in the richest household wealth quintile; being married; knowing about the efficacy of HART during pregnancy; and owning a mobile phone. Among women factors independently associated with HIV testing were: older age group (30-34); a high level of education; being in the richest household wealth quintile; being married; knowing about the efficacy of HART during pregnancy; having any STI in last 12 months; fearing stigma; owning a mobile phone; and having any number of ANC visits, versus none.Conclusion Although HIV remains a public health threat, 73% of men and 38% women in Senegal were not tested for HIV in the last 12 months. Low prevalence of HIV testing makes it difficult to interrupt the transmission chain within the community and to reach the UNAIDS goal for 2020 of “90-90-90”. Innovative community-based strategies are needed to address barriers and improve access to HIV testing, particularly for men and for the youngest and poorest populations, and to narrow the disparities in awareness of HIV status in Senegal.
The Safe Start Trial: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial for the Effect of an Infant Hygiene Intervention on Enteric Infections and Diarrhoea in Low-Income Informal Settlements of Kisumu, Kenya
Authors: Mumma Jane Awiti Odhiambo , Simiyu Sheillah , Aseyo Evalyne , Anderson John , Allen Elizabeth , Dreibelbis Robert , Baker Kelly K. , Cumming Oliver
Published: September 2019

Background Symptomatic and asymptomatic enteric infections in early childhood are associated with negative effects on childhood growth and development, especially in low and middle-income countries, and food may be an important transmission route. Although basic food hygiene practices might reduce exposure to faecal pathogens and resulting infections, there have been few rigorous interventions studies to assess this, and no studies in poor urban settings where risks are plausibly very high. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of a novel infant food hygiene intervention on infant enteric infections and diarrhoea in peri-urban settlements of Kisumu, Kenya. Methods This is a cluster randomized control trial with 50 clusters, representing the catchment areas of community health volunteers (CHVs), randomly assigned to intervention or control, and a total of 750 infants recruited on a rolling basis at 22 weeks of age and then followed for 15 weeks. The intervention targeted four caregiver behaviours related to food hygiene: 1) hand washing with soap before infant food preparation and feeding; 2) bringing all food to the boil before feeding, including when reserving; 3) storing all food in sealed containers; and, 4) using specific utensils for feeding which are kept separate and clean. The primary outcome of interest is the prevalence of one or more of 23 pre-specified enteric infections, determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for enteric pathogen gene targets. Infant food samples were collected at 33 weeks, and faecal indicator bacteria (Enterococcus) isolated and enumerated to assess the impact of the intervention on food contamination. Discussion To our knowledge this is the first randomized controlled trial to assess the effect of an infant food hygiene intervention on enteric infections in a high burden, poor urban setting. Our trial responds to growing evidence that food may be a key pathway for early childhood enteric infection and disease and that basic food hygiene behaviours may be able to mitigate these risks. The study seeks to provide new evidence as to whether a locally appropriate infant food hygiene intervention delivered through the local health extension system can improve the health of young children.
Transcriptome analysis reveals the roles of stem nodes in cadmium transport to rice grain
Authors: Liu Ailing , Zhou Zhibo , Yi Yake , Chen Guanghui
Published: September 2019

Background: Node is the central organ of xylem to phloem transfer of nutrients and ions in plants. Cadmium (Cd)-induced crop pollution threatens food safety. Breeding cultivar with low Cd accumulation is a chance to resolve this universal problem. This study was performed to identify tissue specific genes involved in Cd accumulation in different rice stem nodes. Panicle node and the first node under panicle (node I) were sampled in two rice cultivars: Xiangwanxian No. 12 with low Cd accumulation and Yuzhenxiang with high Cd accumulation in the grains. RNA-seq analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and microRNAs. Results: Xiangwanxian No. 12 had lower Cd concentration in panicle node, node I and grain compared with Yuzhenxiang , and node Ⅰ had the highest Cd concentration in the two cultivars. RNA seq analysis identified 4,535 differentially expressed genes and 70 miRNAs between the two cultivars. Most genes ( OsIRT1 , OsNramp5, OsVIT2 , OsNRT1.5A, and OsABCC1 ) related to the “transporter activity” blocked the transport of Cd up to panicle and accumulation in grains of low Cd-accumulative cultivar. Among the genes related to “response to stimulus”, we identified OsHSP70 and OsHSFA2d/B2c in “X”, but not in “y”, were all down-regulated by Cd stimulus. The up-regulation of miRNAs ( osa-miR528 and osa-miR408 ) played a potent role in lowering Cd accumulation via down regulation of genes, such as bZIP , ERF , MYB , SnRK1 and HSPs in Xiangwanxian No. 12 cultivar. Conclusions: Both panicle node and node I of Xiangwanxian No. 12 played a key role in blocking the upward transportation of Cd, while node I played a critical role in Yuzhenxiang . Distinct expression patterns of various transporter genes such as OsNRT1.5A, OsNramp5, OsIRT1, OsVIT2 and OsABCC1 resulted in differential Cd accumulation in different nodes. Likewise, distinct expression patterns of these transporter genes are likely responsible for the low Cd accumulation in Xiangwanxian No. 12 cultivar . MiRNAs drove multiple transcription factors, such as OsbZIPs, OsERFs, OsMYBs , to play a role in stress response, which contribute to the response to Cd stress in rice.
Genome-wide SNP identification in Fraxinus linking genetic characteristics to tolerance of Agrilus planipennis
Authors: Hale Cecelia E. , Jordan Mark A. , Iriarte Gloria , Storer Andrew J. , Nalam Vamsi J. , Marshall Jordan
Published: September 2019

Background Ash ( Fraxinus spp.) is one of the most widely distributed tree genera in North America. Populations of ash in the United States and Canada have been decimated by the introduced pest, Agrilus planipennis (Coleoptera: Buprestidae; emerald ash borer), having both negative impacts on forest ecosystems and economic interests. The majority of trees succumb to attack by A. planipennis , but some trees have been found to be tolerant to infestation despite years of exposure. Restriction site-associated DNA (RAD) sequencing was used to sequence ash individuals, both tolerant and susceptible to A. planipennis attack, in order to identify SNP patterns related to tolerance and health declines.Results A de novo reference genome was assembled and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were called using SAMtools. After filtering criteria were implemented, a set of 17,807 SNPs were generated. Principle component analysis (PCA) of SNPs aligned individual trees into clusters related to geography, however, five tolerant trees clustered together despite geographic diversity. A subset of 32 outlier SNPs identified within this group, as well as a subset of 17 SNPs identified based on vigor rating, are candidates for selection on host tolerance.Conclusions Identifying genetic markers associated with host tolerance through genome-wide association has the potential to restore populations with cultivars that are able to withstand A. planipennis infestation. This study was successful in using RAD-sequencing in order to identify SNPs that are potential candidates to identify tolerance to A. planipennis . This was a first step toward uncovering the genetic basis for host tolerance to A. planipennis . Future studies are needed to identify the functionality of the loci where these SNPs occur and how they may be related to tolerance of A. planipennis attack.
Identification of porcine RUNX1 as an LPS-dependent gene expression regulator in PBMCs by Super deepSAGE sequencing of multiple tissues
Authors: Huang Tinghua , Yang Min , Dong Kaihui , Xu Mingjiang , Liu Jinhui , Chen Zhi , Zhu Shijia , Chen Wang , Yin Jun , Jin Kai , Deng Yu , Guan Zhou , Huang Xiali , Yang Jun , Han Rongxun , Yao Min
Published: September 2019

Background: Gene expression regulators identified in transcriptome profiling experiment may be selected as targets for genetic manipulations in farm animals. Results: In this study, we developed a gene expression profile of 76,000+ unique transcripts for 224 porcine samples from 28 normal tissues collected from 32 animals using Super deepSAGE technology. Excellent sequencing depth has been achieved for each multiplexed library, and replicated samples from the same tissues cluster together, demonstrating the high quality of the Super deepSAGE data. Comparison with previous research indicated that our results not only have excellent reproducibility but also have greatly extended the coverage of the sample types as well as the number of genes. Clustering analysis discovered ten groups of genes showing distinct expression patterns among those samples. Binding motif over representative analysis identified 41 regulators and finally, we demonstrate a potential application of this dataset to infectious and immune research by identifying an LPS-dependent transcription factor, runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1), in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The selected genes are specifically responsible for the transcription of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK), and vav1 oncogene (VAV1), which belong to the T and B cell signaling pathways. Conclusions: the Super deepSAGE technology and tissue specific expression profiles are valuable resources for investigating the porcine gene expression regulations. The identified RUNX1 target genes belong to the T and B cell signaling pathways, making it a potential novel targets for the diagnostic and therapy of bacterial infections and other immune disorders.
Functional and population genetic features of copy number variations in two dairy cattle populations
Authors: Lee Young-Lim , Bosse Mirte , Mullaart Erik , Groenen Martien A. M. , Veerkamp Roel F. , Bouwman Aniek C.
Published: September 2019

Background Copy Number Variations (CNVs) are gain or loss of DNA segments that are known to play a role in shaping a wide range of phenotypes. In this study, we used two dairy cattle populations, Holstein Friesian and Jersey, to discover CNVs using the Illumina BovineHD Genotyping BeadChip aligned to the ARS-UCD1.2 assembly. The discovered CNVs were investigated for their functional impact and their population genetics features.

Results We discovered 14,272 autosomal CNVs, which were aggregated into 1,755 CNV regions (CNVR) from 451 animals. These CNVRs together cover 2.8% of the bovine autosomes. The assessment of the functional impact of CNVRs showed that rare CNVRs (MAF < 0.01) are more likely to overlap with genes, than common CNVRs (0.05 ≤ MAF). The Population differentiation index (Fst) based on CNVRs revealed multiple highly diverged CNVRs between the two breeds. Some of these CNVRs overlapped with candidate genes such as MGAM and ADAMTS17 genes , which are related to starch digestion and stature, respectively. Lastly, linkage disequilibrium (LD) between CNVRs and BovineHD BeadChip SNPs was generally low, close to 0, although common deletions (MAF>0.05) showed slightly higher LD ( r 2 =~0.1 at 10kb distance) than the rest. Nevertheless, this LD is still lower than SNP-SNP LD ( r 2 =~0.5 at 10kb distance).

Conclusions Our analyses showed that CNVRs detected using BovineHD BeadChip arrays are likely to be functional. This finding indicates that CNVs can potentially disrupt the function of genes and thus might alter phenotypes. Also, the population differentiation index revealed two candidate genes, MGAM and ADAMTS17 , which hint at adaptive evolution between the two populations. Lastly, low CNVR-SNP LD implies that genetic variation from CNVs might not be fully captured in routine animal genetic evaluation, which relies solely on SNP markers.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals hub genes and subnetworks related to ROS metabolism in Hylocereus undatus through novel superoxide scavenger trypsin treatment during storage
Authors: Li Xin , Xueru Liu , Xinyue Pang , Yong Yin , Huichun Yu , Yunxia Yuan , Bairu Li
Published: September 2019

Background It was demonstrated in our previous research that trypsin scavenges superoxide anions. In this study, the mechanisms of storage quality improvement by trypsin were evaluated in H. undatus .Results Trypsin significantly delayed the weight loss and decreased the levels of ROS and membrane lipid peroxidation. Transcriptome profiles of H. undatus treated with trypsin revealed the pathways and regulatory mechanisms of ROS genes that were up- or downregulated following trypsin treatment by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway (KEGG) enrichment analyses. The current results showed that through the regulation of the expression of hub redox enzymes, especially thioredoxin-related proteins, trypsin can maintain low levels of endogenous active oxygen species, reduce malondialdehyde content and delay fruit aging. In addition, the results of protein-protein interaction networks suggested that the downregulated NAD(P)H and lignin pathways might be the key regulatory mechanisms governed by trypsin.Conclusions Trypsin significantly prolonged the storage life of H. undatus through regulatory on the endogenous ROS metabolism. As a new biopreservative, trypsin is highly efficient, safe and economical. Therefore, trypsin possesses technical feasibility for the quality control of fruit storage.
Ancient mitochondrial DNA connects house mice in the British Isles to trade across Europe over three millennia
Authors: García-Rodríguez Oxala , Hardouin Emilie A , Hambleton Ellen , Monteith Jonathan , Randall Clare , Richards Martin B , Edwards Ceiridwen J , Stewart John R
Published: September 2019

The earliest records in Britain for the western house mouse ( Mus musculus domesticus ) date from the Late Bronze Age. As a commensal species, the arrival to Britain is suggested to be related with human transport and trade. In order to study the arrival of the species in Britain, we collected a total of 16 ancient mouse mandibulae from some of the rare early sites with the species in the four British archaeological sites, ranging from the Late Bronze Age to the Roman period. From these, we obtained the first ancient mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) house mouse sequences from the British Isles, including eight house mice from three different archaeological sites ranging from the Late Bronze Age to the Middle Iron Age. We also obtained five ancient mtDNA wood mouse ( Apodemus spp.) sequences from across all four sites. Modern British house mouse mtDNAs are primarily characterised by haplogroups E, F and, much less commonly, haplogroup D. The presence of haplogroups D and E in our samples provides evidence of an early house mouse colonisation that may be related with Late Bronze Age/Iron Age trade and/or expansions of humans. Our results confirm the hypothesis, based on zooarchaeological evidence and modern mtDNA predictions, that house mice with haplogroups D and E were established in Britain by the Iron Age and, in the case of haplogroup E, possibly even by the Late Bronze Age.
Antimicrobial Resistance of Escherichia coli and Salmonella isolated from Raw Retail Broiler Chickens in Zambia
Authors: Muonga Elizabeth Muligisa , Mainda Geoffrey , Mukuma Mercy , Kwenda Geoffrey , Hang'ombe Bernard , Phiri Nelson , Mwansa Mwaba , Munyeme Musso , Muma John Bwalya
Published: September 2019

Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of foodborne pathogens is of public health concern, especially in developing countries like Zambia. This study was undertaken to determine the resistance profiles of Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) and Salmonella isolated from dressed broiler chickens purchased from open markets and supermarkets in Zambia.Results A total of 189 E. coli and five Salmonella isolates were isolated. Identification and confirmation of the isolates was done using Analytical Profile Index (API 20E) (Biomerieux ® ) and 16S rRNA sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests (AST) were performed using the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion technique using a panel of 10 different antibiotics and multiplex PCR was used to determine the presence of three target genes encoding for resistance: tetA, Sul1 and CTXM. AST results were entered and analyzed in WHONET 2018 software. A total of 189 E. coli and five Salmonella isolates were identified. Among the E. coli isolates, Tetracycline recorded the highest resistance of 79.4%, followed by Ampicillin 51.9%, Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole 49.7%, Nalidixic Acid 24.3%, Chloramphenicol 16.4%, Cefotaxime 16.4%, Ciprofloxacin 10.1%, Colistin 7.4%, Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid 6.9%, and Imipenem 1.1%. Two of the five Salmonella isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic. Forty- seven (45.2%) of the isolates possessed at least one of the targeted resistance genes.Conclusion This study has demonstrated the presence of AMR E. coli and Salmonella on raw broiler chickens from both open markets and supermarkets. Such resistance is of public health concern and measures need to be put in place to regulate the use of these antimicrobials in poultry production.
Neural differentiation of canine mesenchymal stem cells/multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Mihevc Sonja Prpar , Grgich Vesna Kokondoska , Kopitar Andreja Nataša , Mohorič Luka , Majdic Gregor
Published: September 2019

Background: Ability of adipose tissue-derived multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells/mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) to differentiate in neural lineages promises progress in the field of regenerative medicine especially for replacing damaged neuronal tissue in different neurological disorders. Reprogramming of ASCs can be induced by supplying growth medium with chemical neurogenic inductors and/or specific growth factors. We investigated the neural differentiation potential of canine ASCs using several growth media (KEM, NIMa, NIMb, NIMc) containing various combinations of neurogenic inductors: B27 supplement, valproic acid, forskolin, N2-supplement and retinoic acid. First the cells were preconditioned in proliferation medium, followed by induction of neuronal differentiation. Six canine ASCs cell lines were assessed, half from female and half from male donors. The cell morphology, growth dynamics, viability were observed along with expression of neuron and astrocyte specific markers, which were assessed by immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry.
Results: After 3, 6 and 9 days, elongated neural-like cells with bipolar elongations were observed and some oval cells with light nuclei appeared. After three and nine days of neural induction, differentiation into neurons and glial cells was observed. Expression of neuronal markers tubulin beta III (TUBB3), neurofilament H (NF-H) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was observed by immunocytochemistry. High GFAP expression (between 70 and 90% of all cells) was detected after three days of growth in neural induction medium a (NIMa) by flow cytometry, and expression of adult neuronal markers NF-H and microtubule associated protein-2 (MAP2) was detected in around 25% of cells. After nine days of ASCs differentiation a drop in expression rates of all markers was detected. There were no differences between neural differentiation of ASCs isolated from female or male dogs.
Conclusions: The differentiation repertoire of canine ASCs extends beyond mesodermal lineages. Using a defined neural induction medium the canine ASCs were able to transform to neural lineages, bearing markers of neuronal and glial cells and also displayed the typical neuronal morphology. Differentiated ASCs can be a source of neural cellular lineages for regenerative therapy of nerve damage and also could be applicable for modeling of neurodegenerative diseases.
Near-infrared auto-fluorescence spectroscopy combining with Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis improves intraoperative real-time identification of normal parathyroid in thyroidectomy
Authors: Liu Junsong , Wang Xiaoxia , Wang Rui , Xu Chongwen , Zhao Ruimin , Li Honghui , Zhang Shaoqiang , Yao Xiaobao
Published: September 2019

Background To evaluate the efficacy of a sensitive, real-time tool for identification and protection for parathyroid glands during thyroidectomy.Methods NIR fluorescence was measured intraoperatively from 20 patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Spectra were measured from suspicious parathyroid glands and surrounding neck tissues during the operation with a NIR fluorescence system. Fast frozen sections were performed on the suspicious parathyroid glands. Accuracy was evaluated by comparison with histology or NIR recognition. Data were attracted for Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis.Results The auto-fluorescence intensity of parathyroid was significantly higher than that of thyroid, fat and lymph node. The peak intensity of auto-fluorescence from parathyroid was 5.55 times of that from thyroid at the corresponding wave number. Of the 20 patients, the parathyroid was accurately detected and identified in 19 patients by NIR system, compared with their pathologic findings. One suspicious parathyroid did not exhibit typical spectra, and was proved to be fat tissue by pathology. The parathyroid gland have specific auto-fluorescence spectrum and can be separated from the other three samples through the Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis.Conclusions NIR auto-fluorescence spectroscopy can accurately identify normal parathyroid gland during thyroidectomy. The Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis demonstrated the specificity of the NIR auto-fluorescence of parathyroid tissue and its efficacy in parathyroid discrimination.
Application of Iconport single incision sealing device in laparoscopic surgery.(Experience in 125 cases of appendectomy)
Authors: Wang Xiaojun , Jin Haibo , Shuai YongFeng , Zhang YiZhong
Published: September 2019

Background To discuss the reliability and clinical value of Iconport, a Self-made single port device, which was applied for transumbilical single port laparoscopic appendectomy. Methods The incision was around 2.5 cm long with curved form around umbilicus. And the skin and each layer of the abdominal wall were cut in sequence. Then the silica gel sleeve of the self-made single-incision sealing device was folded, clamped by the forceps, and carefully inserted into the incision for sealing. The operation of laparoscopic appendectomy was accomplished by-use routine linetype laparoscopic instruments via Iconport. The specimen was discharged from peritoneal cavity through the single port device. Two layers of incision, linea alba abdominus and skin, were separately sutured by absorbable thread and each layer was sutured successively. Results Among the 125 patients, 119 were successfully performed single-port laparoscopic appendectomy, with the operation time ranging from 30 to 110 min (69.34±21.4 min on average). In 6 cases, auxiliary operating hole was added or laparotomy was performed. Total hospital stay was 5.0±1.8 (2-14) days. 5 cases of incision infection. All patients were followed up for 1 to 6 months after surgery, with an average of 3 months. There were no complications such as bleeding, intestinal leakage, intestinal obstruction, and residual peritoneal effusion. Conclusion In single-incision laparoscopic surgery, the u-shaped incision around the umbilical margin of 2.5cm for adult can not only meet the requirements of flexibility of instruments in the operation, but also meet the aesthetic requirements because the incision scar is hidden in the umbilical foramen or looks like the umbilical foramen after the operation. Iconport single-hole device, which has potential promotion value, can be used in relatively simple laparoscopic surgery alone or combined with a single puncture device for relatively complex laparoscopic surgery.
Compare of Sequential, Delayed and Simultaneous Resection Strategies for Synchronous Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Wang Li-Jun , Wang Hong-Wei , Jin Ke-Min , Li Juan , Xing Bao-Cai
Published: September 2019

Background: The present study aimed to compare perioperative safety and long-term survival of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases receiving sequential resection (SeR), delayed resection (DeR) and simultaneous resection (SiR).
Methods: From January 2007 to December 2016, data of patients receiving surgery at Peking University Cancer Hospital for synchronous colorectal liver metastases were retrospectively collected. The above three different surgical strategies were compared.
Results: A total of 233 cases were included, with 49 in the SeR group, 98 in the DeR group and 86 in the SiR group. The incidence of severe complications was 26.7% in the SiR group, higher than that in the DeR group (11.2%, p=0.007) and the SeR group (16.3%, p=0.166). Overall survival at 1-year and 3-year in the SeR group (93.9% and 50.1%) was lower than the DeR group (94.9% and 64.8%, p=0.019), but not statistically different compared with the SiR group (93.0% and 55.2%, p=0.378). Recurrence-free survival at 1-year and 3-year in the SeR group (22.4% and 18.4%) was lower than the DeR group (43.9% and 24.2%, p=0.033), but not statistically different compared with the SiR group (31.4% and 19.6%, p=0.275). Cox multivariate analysis indicated that T4, lymph node positive primary tumor, liver metastases>30mm and selective sequential resection (compared with delayed resection) were correlated with poor prognosis.
Conclusion: Simultaneous resection has a relatively higher incidence of severe complication, and when staged resection strategy was made, the prognosis of delayed resection was better than that of sequential resection.
Survival outcomes of lobectomy in comparison with segmentectomy in clinical stage I non-small-cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Feng Jian , Han Yan-Yue , Wang Yue , Wu Xiu-Yu , Lv Feng , Liu Yang , Chen Bing-Hui
Published: September 2019

Background: The gold standard surgical therapy for patients with Clinical stage I non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is lobectomy with mediastinal lymph node dissection. While, segmentectomy has emerged as an alternative choice with the advantage of fewer postoperative complications. While the acceptance of this procedure still remains controversial, and conflicting results exist in the retrospective trials. Objectives: The aim of this meta-analysis was to analysis the survival outcomes of Lobectomy in comparison with segmentectomy in treatment of Clinical stage I non-small-cell lung cancer. Methods: Computerized literature search was done on the published trials in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library databases to June, 2019 to identify clinical trials. Lung cancer-specific survival (LCSS) and overall survival (OS) were measured as outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed in the Meta-analysis Revman 5.3 software. Results: A systematic literature search was conducted including 7 studies. In this meta-analysis, results indicate that lobectomy confers an equivalent survival outcome compared with segmentectomy. Conclusion: No significant differences were found in survival outcomes between lobectomy and segmentectomy. Further prospective large-scale, prospective, randomized trials are needed to explore the reasonable surgical treatment for early resectable lung cancer.
A systematic review of brief screeners for suicidal behaviour in primary care
Authors: Lukaschek Karoline , Frank Milena , Halfter Kathrin , Schneider Antonius , Gensichen Jochen
Published: September 2019

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Distant mood monitoring for psychiatric disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Watt Alberta Susanna Johanna van der , Odendaal Willem , Louw Kerry , Seedat Soraya
Published: September 2019

Background: Whilst electronic self-monitoring and intervention programmes for mood disturbances in psychiatric disorders may promote self-management and patient empowerment, some level of interaction with professionals (such as clinicians, counsellors, and researchers) coupled with support is still positively valued by patients. This can allow for a more personalised approach, improve the efficiency of treatment, and adverse events can be managed in a time-appropriate manner, thereby mitigating some of the risks associated with mood fluctuations. Methods: This systematic review synthesises quantitative and qualitative evidence on the effectiveness and feasibility of daily/weekly/monthly remote mood monitoring by distant supporters (clinicians, lay counsellors, and researchers) (or with regular feedback by distant supporters in cases where mood monitoring was self-assessed), in participants with any psychiatric disorder. Effectiveness was defined by the change in depression and/or mania scores. Feasibility was determined according to completion/attrition rates and participant feedback. Studies were assessed for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 2018. Results: Eight studies met our inclusion criteria. Distant mood monitoring was effective in improving depression scores but not mania scores. Feasibility, as measured through compliance and completion rates and participant feedback, varied. Conclusion: Distant mood monitoring with feedback is an appealing intervention, particularly in low resourced settings; however, further studies are needed to better understand the utility, feasibility, and effectiveness of these interventions in routine clinical care.
From Folk Therapy to Evidence-based Psychiatry Practice: The Benefit of Evidence-based Psychiatry in Treatment-naive Psychotic Patients
Authors: Wang Hung-Yu , Huang Joh-Jong , Su Shu-Fang , Hsu Sheng-Hao , Chou Li-Shiu , Chou Frank
Published: September 2019

Background: Though Taiwan’s Mental Health Act clearly states that the human rights and legal rights of psychotic patients should be respected and guaranteed, a temple mental asylum violated those regulations in the 21st century. Hundreds of patients were constrained in the asylum and evacuated following a forcible, public right intervention. Method: The study conducted drug-naïve psychotic patients constrained in an asylum for decades. Before and after formal treatment, a total of 169 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders were assessed with rating scales including the Mini Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Comprehensive Occupational Therapy Evaluation scale. In addition, family function, self-care and nutritional status were evaluated. Results: The initial data show improvement in psychotic symptoms and occupational function. Furthermore, the ratio of patients classified as being at risk for malnutrition was decreased by 21.7% after treatment. Conclusion: The psychotic symptoms and occupational function of these patients improved after undergoing formal treatment compared with folk therapy. The care model for psychotic patients in the temple asylum should be discussed while considering medical ethics principles. Trial registration: retrospectively registered.
Efficacy and clinical predictors of response to rTMS treatment in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): A retrospective study
Authors: Rostami Reza , Kazemi Reza , Jabbari Arezoo , Madani Azam , Rostami Hosseinreza , Taherpour Mohammad Amin , Jaafari Nematollah , Kuo Min-Fang , Vicario Carmelo M. , Nitsche Michael A. , Salehinejad Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2019

Background: Application of the repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been promising but effects differ between patients. Knowledge about clinical predictors of rTMS response would help to increase clinical efficacy but is not available so far. Methods: In a retrospective study, we investigated the efficacy of rTMS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) or supplementary motor area (SMA) in 65 OCD outpatients recruited for the rTMS treatment from July 2015 to May 2017. Patients were divided into two groups and received either SMA rTMS or bilateral DLPFC rTMS. OCD symptoms and depression/anxiety states were measured before and after the 20th session of rTMS. Additionally, we performed a binary logistic regression analysis on the demographic variables and the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) items to investigate demographic and clinical predictors for rTMS response in responders and non-responders. Results: Patients’ scores in Y-BOCS and Beck anxiety/depression inventories were significantly decreased following rTMS treatment. Specifically, 46.2% of all patients responded to rTMS, based on at least 30% reduction of the Y-BOCS scores. Stimulation target (DLPFC vs. SMA) did not significantly differ in rTMS efficacy. No significant demographic predictors were found. Interference due to obsessions and resistance against compulsions were the only two clinical predictors of rTMS treatment response that could significantly predict response failure to rTMS. Conclusions: rTMS treatment should be adapted to the clinical profile of OCD patients including the symptoms. Patients with less intrusive and interfering thoughts might benefit more from rTMS treatment. Identifying clinical and non-clinical predictors of response are needed to personalize and adapt rTMS protocols in pharmaco-resistant OCD patients.
Overexpression of LncRNA-PVT1 promotes proliferation migration, invasion and fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy via suppressing miR-93-5p
Authors: Li Jianzhou , Zhao Qing , Jin Xiaohong , Li Yanhua , Song Jian
Published: September 2019

Background : This research aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of LncRNA- plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods: Mouse mesangial cells (MMCs) were obtained from diabetic model mice. The real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Western blot, luciferase reporter gene assay, EdU assay, flow cytometry analysis, AnnexinV-PI double staining, scratch assay, Transwell assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and luciferase reporter gene assay were performed to reveal the effect of PVT1 on the proliferation, migration, invasion and fibrosis of MMCs cultured in high glucose. Results: PVT1 was overexpressed in both mice kidney tissue and high glucose cultured MMCs. Meanwhile, PVT1 could not only promoted proliferation, migration, invasion and fibrosis of high glucose cultured MMCs, but also regulated the cell cycle from G0/G1 to S phase. Moreover, PVT1 negatively regulated the expression of miR-93-5p in MMCs. Furthermore, the PVT1-miR-93-5p regulatory relation activated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, which in turn regulated cell proliferation and insulin signaling in high glucose cultured MMCs. Conclusions: PVT1 might promoted proliferation, migration, invasion and fibrosis in high glucose cultured MMCs, which further affected the development of DN. Furthermore, PVT1-miR-93-5p regulatory relation might take part in DN progression via activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
The Value of ESWAN in Diagnostic of Adenomyosis and Related Study about Dysmenorrheal
Authors: Cheng Qi-Chao , Wang Zong-Ying , Li Fei , Li Feng-Zhi , Xin Jian-Ying , Gao Shan-Shan , Liu Jin-Gang , Chen Chang-Sheng , Wang Xizhen
Published: September 2019

Background This retrospective study aimed (1) to evaluate the value of enhanced T2 star-weighted angiography (ESWAN) in diagnosis Adenomyosis(AM). And (2) to estimate the differences of focal AM patients lesion and the peripheral tissues region. And (3) analysis the correlation between the multiple indices of ESWAN and dysmenorrheal, focal AM lesion ratio.Methods Traditional MRI and ESWAN were performed on seventy-two clinically–diagnosed AM patients (fifty for focal and twenty-two for diffuse AM), and fifty-six normal adult woman. The ESWAN indices (magnitude value, phase value, R2* value and T2* value) measured on different regions of interest (ROIs) were analyzed. Measured the focal AM lesion size and Uterine volume by tradition MRI, and using visual analogue scale(VAS) measured dysmenorrheal level.Results The magnitude value, phase value, R2* value and T2* value of focal AM, diffuse AM, peripheral tissue in focal AM and normal myometrium were respectively 1176.20±367.70/1286.51±349.49/1139.61±426.69/1685.94±407.14, 0.0114±0.0438/0.0138±0.0182/0.0296±0.0858/0.0433±0.0869, 26.39±3.36/27.40±2.36/27.24±4.60/22.54±5.03, 39.83±5.47/37.49±3.48/38.67±7.09/43.39±8.94. The ESWAN indices by one-way ANOVA showed statistical difference with the normal myometrium and focal and diffuse AM(0.000, 0.027, 0.000, 0.002). Compared with the peripheral tissue, the focal AM indices were no statistical difference. The correlation between the dysmenorrheal level and phase value were statistical difference(0.018).Conclusions ESWAN sequence has fractional value in diagnosis AM by different indices. And the dysmenorrheal level could react the AM feature in certain degree.
Single-session esophagogastroduodenoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound using a forward-viewing radial scan ultrasonic endoscope
Authors: Uchida Daisuke , Kato Hironari , Matsumoto Kazuyuki , Ishihara Yuki , Matsumi Akihiro , Saragai Yosuke , Takada Saimon , Yabe Shuntaro , Muro Shinichiro , Tomoda Takeshi , Horiguchi Shigeru , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: September 2019

Background and Aims
Endoscopic ultrasound is useful for obtaining high-resolution images of pancreaticobiliary diseases, but is not readily available for physical checkups. In this study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of single-session esophagogastroduodenoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound in the detection of upper-gastrointestinal and pancreaticobiliary diseases using a forward-viewing radial scan ultrasonic endoscope.
Methods
A total of 148 patients who were scheduled for upper-gastrointestinal screening using an endoscope were prospectively included. All patients were examined by EUS in combination with EGD using a forward-viewing radial scan ultrasonic endoscope. The primary endpoint was the safety of the procedures. The secondary endpoints were the prevalence of diseases, the basal imaging capability of EUS, the procedure time, total dose of propofol, and the correlation between background factors and the prevalence of pancreatic disease. The imaging capability at each region was scored as 0 (invisible) to 2 (sufficient visualization to evaluate the organs).
Results
Intraoperative hypotension occurred as an adverse event of intravenous anesthesia in one patient. There were 82 pancreaticobiliary findings and 165 upper-gastrointestinal findings (malignancy not included). Follicular lymphoma of the intra-abdominal lymph nodes was detected in one patient. The mean imaging scores of each section were 1.95 (pancreatic head and papilla), 2.0 (pancreatic body), 1.99 (pancreatic tail), and 1.89 (common bile duct and gallbladder). Age, history of diabetes mellitus, and smoking history were significantly associated with the prevalence of pancreatic diseases.
Conclusion
The simultaneous performance of EGD and EUS using a new ultrasonic endoscope is tolerable and safe for upper-gastrointestinal and pancreaticobiliary screening.
Assessing stationary distributions derived from chromatin contact maps
Authors: Segal Mark , Fletez-Brant Kipper
Published: September 2019

Background Three dimensional (3D) genome spatial organization is critical for numerous cellular functions, including transcription. Genome architecture had been difficult to elucidate but the suite of chromatin conformation capture assays, notably Hi-C transformed understanding of chromatin organization, yielding numerous insights, many deriving from 3D reconstructions. In part, these benefits derive from the ability to superpose genomic features on the reconstruction. However, the advantages of 3D structure-based analyses are clearly conditional on the accuracy of the corresponding reconstruction, which is difficult to assess due to an absence of gold standards. Proponents of competing reconstruction algorithms have evaluated their accuracy by recourse to simulation of toy structures and limited FISH imaging that features a handful of low resolution probes. While newly advanced multiplexed FISH imaging offers possibilities for refined 3D reconstruction accuracy evaluation, availability of such data remains limited due to assay complexity and the resolution thereof is appreciably lower than the reconstructions being assessed. Accordingly, there is demand for new methods of reconstruction accuracy appraisal. Results Here we explore the potential of recently proposed stationary distributions, StatDns, derived from Hi-C contact matrices, to serve as a basis for reconstruction accuracy assessment. Current usage of such StatDns has focussed on the identification of highly interactive regions (HIRs): computationally defined regions of the genome purportedly involved in numerous long-range intra-chromosomal contacts. Consistent identification of HIRs would be informative with respect to inferred 3D architecture since the corresponding regions of the reconstruction would have an elevated number of k nearest neighbors ( k NNs). More generally, we anticipate a monotone decreasing relationship between StatDn values and k NN distances. After initially evaluating the reproducibility of StatDns across replicate Hi-C data sets, we use this implied StatDn - k NN relationship to gauge the utility of StatDns for reconstruction validation, making recourse to both real and simulated examples. Conclusions Our analyses demonstrate that, as constructed, StatDns do not provide a suitable measure for assessing the accuracy of 3D genome reconstructions. Whether this is attributable to specific choices surrounding normalization in defining StatDns or to the logic underlying their very formulation remains to be determined.
The Six Aspect Meal Model as a Conceptual Framework in Nursing Research - Childhood cancer/stem cell transplantation and the mealtime situation with a gastrostomy tube
Authors: Mårtensson Ulrika , Nolbris Margaretha Jenholt , Mellgren Karin , Wijk Helle , Nilsson Stefan
Published: September 2019

Background: Children with cancer usually undergo an intensive and demanding course of treatment, which can consist of chemotherapy, radiation, surgery or stem cell transplantation, separately or in different combinations. The cancer treatment may induce side effects, which negatively affect the child’s appetite and ability to eat and drink, thus causing eating problems. Because of this, a gastrostomy tube may be required in order to maintain and optimise the child’s nutritional needs. There is limited knowledge and experience of the environment and the mealtime situation for children who have undergone a stem cell transplantation and require a gastrostomy tube. Methods: Interviews were developed from semi-structured questions and were performed with the aim of investigating the experience of living with a gastrostomy tube, focusing on the mealtime situation. The Six Aspect Meal Model (SAMM) was used as a base in the interview guide. The transcripts were analysed using the qualitative directed content analysis approach outlined by Hsieh and Shannon. Results: It emerged that all the different aspects were represented in the interviews, but there were also many experiences related to the gastrostomy tube that did not fit under any of the six predetermined categories. Experiences that were associated with psychosocial dimensions emerged as an important factor with regard to the gastrostomy tube and the mealtime situation. As a result, the Six Aspect Meal Model (SAMM) needs to be supplemented with one more aspect. Conclusions: The psychosocial aspect seems to affect the mealtime situation, and it is important to include this in nursing practice. According to the result, the Six Aspect Meal Model (SAMM) have to be added with one more aspect in order to meet the children´s needs in an optimal way. It seems to be a model which can be transferred and used in clinical nursing practice in order to chart and improve the mealtime situation for those children with cancer who are required to use a gastrostomy tube.