bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of A Simulation-Based Clinical Preparation Program by Final-Year Medical Students: A Qualitative Study on Emergency Patient Management
Authors: Kitapcioglu Dilek , Tanriover Ozlem , Inanici Sinem Yildiz , Aksoy Mehmet Emin , Gulpinar Mehmet Ali
Published: January 2021

Background: The most common problem encountered by medical students is the management of unstable emergency patients. Simulation-based education (SBE) is widely used for improving the management of unstable patients. In this study, the aim is to evaluate the SBE Clinical Preparation Program and to understand whether our final-year medical students could transfer the skills acquired in the program to clinical encounters in their emergency medicine clerkship, with the aim of easing this transition.Materials and methods: Final-year medical students at the Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University Faculty of Medicine and their educators were included in this qualitative study. After participating in the SBE Clinical Preparation Program for two weeks, interns completed a two-month emergency medicine clerkship. At the end of the clerkship, four focus group discussions with 5 or 7 interns (n=24) and in-depth interviews with two educators were held. The digital audio recordings were transcribed verbatim within 48 hours of the interviews. The texts were reviewed by two different researchers, and thematic codes were identified.Results: In this study, the effectiveness of the SBE Clinical Preparation Program was evaluated. The participants stated that the program prepared them very well for critical patient management and that the content of the program was sufficient and comprehensive. The trainers stated that the simulation program prepared the students well for the clinic and provided a strong foundation, which was very important, but the students had to overcome an emotional barrier when approaching real patients, a process that took one or two weeks. The characteristics of the students (motivation, anxiety levels), the quality of the processes experienced during the program (seeing a sufficient number of patients, communication and interaction with other healthcare professionals and patients) and the environment/context in which these practices took place (learning climate) were the important factors influencing the transfer of the learning outcomes to the clinical environment.Conclusion SBE transition programs are effective in preparing students for the management of critical patients and facilitate the transition to the clerkship. SBE programs are not sufficient by themselves and should be developed in a continuous and integrated manner with training programs in actual clinical settings.
QTL Mapping for the Starch Paste Viscosity of Rice (Oryza Sativa L.) Using a Chromosome Segment Substitution Lines Derived From Two Sequenced Cultivars With Same Wx Allele
Authors: Zhao Ling , Zhao Chunfang , Zhou Lihui , Zhao Qingyong , Zhu Zhen , Chen Tao , Yao Shu , Zhang Yadong , Wang Cailin
Published: January 2021

BackgroundEating and cooking qualities (ECQs) of rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important economic characters which affecting production and market value. The starch viscosity profile tested by Rapid visco analyzer (RVA) is the direct measure of ECQs that represents the changes in viscosity associated with starch gelatinization. RVA profiles of rice are controlled by a complex genetic system and affected by environment. It is necessary to identify genetic factors controlled the RVA profile characters for development of rice varieties with excellent ECQs. Although it is known that Waxy (Wx) is the major gene control the amylose content (AC) and ECQs, there still have other unknown genetic factors effecting on ECQs.ResultsQuantitative trait loci (QTL) for starch paste viscosity of rice was analyzed using chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs) developed from 9311 and Nipponbare with same Wx-b background. With this CSSLs, the effect of major locus Wx could be eliminated and the other locus associated with RVA profile could be identified. QTLs for seven traits of starch RVA profile were tested over 4 years in Nanjing, China. 310 QTLs were identified (from 1 to 55 QTLs for each trait). Among 136 repeated QTLs, 6 QTLs were stable and detected every year. In total of 26 marker intervals detected over 3 years or more, 13 showed pleiotropy with respect to controlling 2 to 6 starch RVA profile properties simultaneously. The stable QTL clusters which we mapped here were overlapped to some of the known starch synthesis–related genes (SSRGs). ConclusionsWithout the effect of major locus Wx, many QTLs associated with RVA profile of rice were identified and some of them were stable. Our study illustrated that the hereditary of rice starch RVA profile is complicated, pleiotropic effects and QTL hot spots are the key factors affecting starch RVA traits.
Pivotal Role of Dosimetry in High Activity 131i Mibg Therapy in Patients Affected by High Risk Relapsed Refractory Neuroblastoma: Towards a Deeper Metastatic Response Understanding
Authors: Cassano Bartolomeo , Pizzoferro Milena , Valeri Silvio , Polito Claudia , Donatiello Salvatore , Altini Claudio , Villani Maria Felicia , Castellano Aurora , Serra Annalisa , Locatelli Franco , Garganese Maria Carmen , Cannatà Vittorio
Published: January 2021

Background: Dosimetry in molecular radiotherapy for personalized treatment is assuming a central role in clinical management of aggressive/relapsed tumors. High-Risk relapsed/refractory metastatic Neuroblastoma (HRrrm-NBL) has a poor prognosis and high-activity 131I-mIBG therapy could represent a promising strategy.The aim of this study was to report the absorbed dose to whole-body (DWB), red marrow (DRM) and lesions (DLesion) correlated to clinical outcome.Methods: 14 patients affected by HRrrm-NBL were treated with high-activity 131I-mIBG therapy (two administrations separated by 15 days). The first administration was weight-based whereas the second one was dosimetry-based (achieving 4 Gy to whole-body). In all patients DWB and DRM has been assessed; 9/14 patients were selected for DLesion evaluation (for a total of 13 lesions). Treatment response was classified in Progression and Stable Disease (PD and SD), Partial and Complete Response (PR and CR) and correlated to the value of DLesion value.Results: The cumulative DWB, DRM and DLesion ranged from [1.49; 4.45], [0.99; 2.56] and [44.17; 585.75] Gy. After treatment 3, 2, 4 and 5 patients showed CR, PR, SD and PD respectively showing a correlation between the clinical outcome and DLesion with a threshold at 80 Gy.Conclusions: Our experience shows feasibility of high activity therapy of 131I MIBG in rrmHR-NBL children as two administration intensive strategy. Dosimetric approach allowed a tailored high dose treatment maximizing the benefits of radionuclide therapy for pediatric patients with a safety profile. The assesment of DLesion contributed to have a deeper understaning of metabolic treatment effects.
The Combination of G-CSF/AMD3100 Mobilizes Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells to Rescue Mice from Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Chen Zhi , Ren Xiang , Ren Ruimin , Wang Yonghong , Shang Jiwen
Published: January 2021

Background: Several studies have confirmed that mobilizing bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) ameliorates renal function loss following cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). The aim of this study was to explore whether the combination of G-CSF/AMD3100 exerts beneficial effects with respect to renal function recovery in a mouse model of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Methods: C57BL/6J mice received intraperitoneal injections of G-CSF (200 μg/kg/d) for 5 consecutive days. On the day of the last injection, the mice received a single subcutaneous dose of AMD3100 (5 mg/kg) 1 hour before cisplatin 20 mg/kg injection. 96 hours after cisplatin injection, the mice were euthanized, blood and tissue samples were collected to assess renal function and tissue damage. Cell mobilization was assessed by flow cytometry. Results: Mice pretreated with G-CSF/AMD3100 exhibited longer survival and significantly lower serum creatinine and BUN levels than mice treated with only G-CSF or saline, exhibited attenuated tissue injury and cell death and enhanced tissue repair and cell regeneration. C57BL/6J mice pretreated with G-CSF/AMD3100 exhibited higher numbers of stem cells in peripheral blood than mice treated with only G-CSF or saline. Furthermore, G-CSF/AMD3100 administration prevented increases in the expression of proinflammatory factors, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, and increased the expression of the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. Conclusions: These results suggest that G-CSF/AMD3100 mobilizes bone marrow cells to improve renal function and prevent cisplatin-induced renal tubular injury and that the combination of G-CSF/AMD3100 is superior to G-CSF alone for preventing AKI. This combination may represent a new therapeutic option for the treatment of AKI and warrants further investigation.
The Long-term Results of Total Knee Arthroplasty in Octogenarian
Authors: Mak Rex Wang-Fung , Chau Wai-Wang , Chung Kwong-Yin , Chiu Kwok-Hing , Ho Kevin Ki-Wai
Published: January 2021

Background: With increasing life expectancy and aging population, more octogenarians would benefit from total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim of this study is to evaluate the survivorship of TKA in octogenarian and their long-term outcomes. Methods: This was a retrospective review of 67 patients aged above 80 years who had primary TKA performed between 2005-2013 at a single centre. A sex-matched younger cohort of 67 primary TKAs during the same time-period was recruited for control. 5- and 10-year survival was calculated. Pre- and peri-operative factors were collected and compared. Post-operative range of motion, Knee Society Score (KSS) and Function Score (KFS) were collected and compared. Rate of revision, infection, aseptic loosening and mortality was collected.Results: The mean follow-up period was 10.39±2.29 years. The 5- and 10- year survival of octogenarian group was 85.1% and 54.6% respectively. Pre- and peri-operative factors between the octogenarian and control groups were comparable (p>0.05). Both groups showed improvement in range of motion, KSS and KFS post-operatively. Rate of revision, aseptic loosening and deep infection was 0% in octogenarian and 1.5% in control group. Conclusions: TKA can be performed in patients with age above 80 years old with comparable post-op knee range, complication rate and long-term functional score. Advanced age should not be a limiting factor for TKA.
Occupational Stress Faced by Doctors of Public and Private Sector of Pakistan: Comparative Study
Authors: Namood-e-Sahar  , Saman Maira , Malik Meerab
Published: January 2021

The survey on comparative account of occupational role stress among doctor of public and private sectors was conducted by using the Occupational Role Stress Scale (ORS), devised by Pareek (1983). Sample comprised of doctors from public (n= 30) and from private sector (n= 30). The data obtained was statistically analyzed by taking the mean of scores obtained by the doctors of both sectors, for public doctors the arithmetic mean was (M= 27.13) and for private doctors the scores were (M= 48.8). So, it was clear that mean score for occupational stress in private sector was more as compared to the Public one and thus research hypothesis was accepted.
Purification, characterization and application of thermoalkaliphilic proteases from Bacillus filamentosus, Lysinibacillus cresolivorans, and Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Ullah Inam , Ali Nawab , Ullah Waheed , Qasim Muhammed , Nughman Muhammed , Ullah Nimat , Rashid Muhammed
Published: January 2021

Thermophilic proteases are important industrial enzymes because they can be used at unavoidable temperature in various bioprocessing schemes. The bacterial population of Cholistan desert was explored for thermophillic proteases and their industrial applications. Three bacterial isolates K1, K5, and K7 were found promising protease producers. These isolates were preliminary identified as Bacillus based on morphological characteristics and biochemical tests (positive for catalase, oxidase, and citrate tests, and negative for indole and urease tests). The isolates K1, K5, and K7 were further identified as Bacillus filamentosus, Lysinibacillus cresolivorans, and Bacillus subtilis, respectively by phylogenetic analysis. The isolates grew best at 50oC while Bacillus filamentosus (K1), Lysinibacillus cresolivorans (K5), and Bacillus subtilis (K7) produced larger zones of hydrolysis at 37oC, 45oC and 50oC at pH 7, respectively. The optimum temperature for protease activity was 65oC for Bacillus filamentosus and Lysinibacillus cresolivorans and 55oC for Bacillus subtilis, and the optimum pH for activity was 9 for all the three strains. The protease produced by these isolates were found active at high temperature (37oC to 85oC) and high pH (5–12) which make them industrially important thermoalkaliphilic proteases. Theses proteases successfully de-haired cow’s skin and de-stained blood from cotton cloth pieces, which are rarely tested applications of these proteases.
Utilising Synergism Between the Transverse Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Muscles at Different Postures in Nulliparous Women: a Randomized Case Control Study
Authors: Molnár Tímea , Domján Andrea , Szűcs Mónika , Surányi Andrea , Bódis József
Published: January 2021

Background: To determine the effects of the pelvic floor muscle training (PFM-T) in combination with transverse abdominal muscle (TRA) activation (cPFM-T) in female urinary incontinence.Methods: We enrolled nulliparous women in supine (SUG) (n = 22), sitting (SIG) (n = 19) and control (COG) (n = 14) groups. We performed the 8-week cPFM-T programme. We examined the effect of training on the parameters with the Kruskal–Wallis test, and the pairwise comparisons with the Mann-Whitney U-test and the Wilcoxon-rank test with the Bonferroni correction.Results: Before training, 15 participants reported occasional urinary leakage. After cPFM-T seven participants reported that urinary leakage had disappeared. Maximal isometric contraction of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) until fatigue improved significantly in the SUG (p < 0.001) and SIG (p = 0.015) and not significantly in the COG (p = 0.499). Holding time increased in the SUG (p = 0.972) and the SIG (p = 0.717), and decreased in the COG (p = 0.132). The dynamic endurance of the PFM improved significantly in the SUG (p < 0.001), but not in the SIG (p = 0.798) and the COG (p = 0.153). The number of maximal fast contractions within 1 minute increased in both the SUG (p < 0.001) and the SIG (p=0.813) and decreased in the COG (p = 0.257). Relaxation improved significantly in the SIG (p = 0.011). TRA thickness increased in both training groups.Conclusions: Slow-twitch fibres of the PFM can be trained effectively with PFM-T in both the body positions.Trial registration: This study was registered in the Hungarian National Healthcare Service Center: 019234/2014/OTIG Registered 07 April 2014 modification: 096623-002/2015/OTIG Registered 11 November 2015 https://www.aeek.huThe study was retrospectively registered in ClincalTrials.gov NCT04577872 Registered 22 September 2020. https:// https://clinicaltrials.gov
RETRACTED: Predictors of Delay in Treatment of Urinary Incontinence Among Pakistani Women – A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Saaqib Shazia , Jameel Amara , Ghufran Muhammad , Eusaph Amna Zia
Published: January 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
WITHDRAWN: Microbial Degradation of Ancient Wood Housed in Cheops Boat Museum and Methods of Its Control
Authors: Omar A M. , Abdelmoniem Abdelmoniem M. , El-Wekeel F
Published: January 2021

The present research paper aims to determine the effect of microbial deterioration on wood housed in Cheops Boat and how to control it. Khufu, the second king of the Fourth Dynasty 2650 BC, established Cheops Boat that was found in 1954 on the southern side of the pyramid. Wood is usually very sensitive to biological attacks. Therefore, fungi, bacteria, and insects can easily attack and metabolize it, leading to significant physical, chemical, and morphological changes. Cellulose agar was used for the cultivation of fungi, and nutrient agar was used to cultivate bacteria. Microbial infections were identified using light microscopy and PCR after their cultivation. The causative microorganisms were isolated from Cheops Boat and characterized as A. niger, A. flavus, A. sulphureus, P. janthinellum, Cladosporium herbarum, Botryotrichum piluliferum, and Bacillus megaterium. The characteristics of the test methods and disinfection include their application to historical objects. Historic wood was analyzed from different perspectives: Stereo microscopes, SEM with EDX, FTIR, as well as wood structure and chemical composition. The biological activities of the isolated microorganisms were studied. The results illustrated that the best concentrations of a specific microbicide for the bio-treatment of the infected wood materials is pentachlorophenol at (900 ppm) as it is sufficient to inhibit all isolated microorganisms. It is followed by plant extract of Ceratophyllum demersum at (1000 ppm) concentration, and p-chloro-m-cresol at (2000 ppm) concentration.
Ultrasound Study of Layer-specific Strain and Perfusion of Left Ventricular Myocardium in Patients With Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tang Sha , Guan Lina , Mu Yuming
Published: January 2021

BackgroundTo investigate the changes in deformation and myocardial microcirculation perfusion of left ventricular three-layer myocardium in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) by using speckle tracking imaging (STI) and myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE).MethodsTwenty-four patients with DCM and 19 healthy controls were selected. Two-dimensional and MCE dynamic images of apical four-chamber, two-chamber, and three-chamber sections and left ventricular mitral valve, papillary muscle and apex sections were collected. The peak values of longitudinal strain (LS), circumferential strain (CS), cross-sectional area of a microvessel (A) and average myocardial microvascular lesion (β) were obtained by Qlab 10.8 workstation values, and myocardial blood flow (MBF) was calculated with A×β to evaluate the deformation and coronary microvascular perfusion of left ventricular three-layer myocardium.ResultsThe brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVEDS), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV), left atrial volume index (LAVI), E peak in early diastolic period/A peak velocity in late diastolic period (E/A) and average E/e' in the DCM group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05); left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular fractional shortening (FS) rate, stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), A peak, and the e' and a' velocities of both the lateral wall and interventricular septum were smaller than those in the control group (P<0.05). The LS, CS, A, β, and A×β of the DCM group were all lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The pattern of myocardial strain and perfusion among myocardial layers was subendocardial>middle>subepicardial. The correlation coefficients of LS with A, β, and A×β were -0.500, -0.279 and -0.190, respectively, and the correlation coefficients of CS with A, β, and A×β were -0.383, -0.255 and -0.208, respectively.ConclusionsThe deformation of the three-layer myocardium and coronary microcirculation perfusion in DCM patients were diffusely damaged from the endocardium to the epicardium, layer by layer. The longitudinal function of the left ventricular myocardium was closely related to changes in myocardial microcirculation perfusion.
Effects of Stand Features and Soil Enzyme Activity on Spontaneous Pedunculate Oak Regeneration in Scots Pine Dominated Stands – Implication for Forest Management
Authors: Dobrowolska Dorota , Kurek Przemysław , Olszowska Grażyna , Bolibok Leszek
Published: January 2021

BackgroundA challenge in current forestry is adaptation of managed forests to climate change, which is likely to alter the main processes of forest dynamics, i.e. natural regeneration. Scots pine will probably lose some parts of its distribution area in Europe. However, two native oaks, pedunculate and sessile may maintain or expand the area of their occurrence in central Europe. The utilization of spontaneous (not initialized by foresters) oak regeneration in Scots pine stands for the creation of next generation stands is one of the adaptation methods to climate change. Many factors influencing pedunculate oak regeneration are well known, but there is a lack of knowledge on the relation between soil enzyme activity and the establishment and development of the species. The aim of the study was to identify the relationships among stand characteristics, herb species composition, soil enzyme activity and the establishment or recruitment of oak regeneration in Scots pine-dominated stands. ResultsThe one of the most influential factors shaping the oak seedling count was dehydrogenase activity in the humus horizon. We found that plots without litter and fern cover had higher seedling density. The raspberry ground cover and birch crown projection area had a positive influence on oak seedling number. The factor indicating good conditions for high density of oak saplings was phosphatase activity in the organic horizon. The same enzyme activity but in humus horizon described conditions in which more numerous recruits were observed.ConclusionsThe activity of soil enzymes can be treated as a predictor of site conditions but also as a predictor of the establishment and advancement of oak regeneration. The general density of spontaneous oak regeneration was not sufficient for the creation of new generation forest stands dominated by oak, but it is possible to use them as admixtures in new generation stands.
A Task-shifting and Family-focused Approach Towards Mental Health Care for Youth Living in Refugee Camps
Authors: Scharpf Florian , Hecker Tobias
Published: January 2021

Background: In humanitarian emergencies with few specialist resources for mental health care, it is a practical and ethical necessity to allocate available resources to interventions that target youth most in need of support and address contextually relevant factors of influence. Based on the findings of an extensive epidemiological observational study with 230 Burundian refugee youth aged 7 to 15 years and both their caregivers in three refugee camps, we propose a multi-layered mental health service model that is characterized by task-shifting from professionals to non-professionals, close-meshed collaboration between different agencies within camps and inclusion of families at all stages. Discussion: The model prioritizes the identification of youth with clinically relevant mental health problems through extensive screening, who are then provided with trauma- and/or family-focused interventions depending on a more detailed assessment of needs. We emphasize the importance of incorporating evidence-based interventions and evaluating all model components and discuss caveats and limitations concerning the implementation of the model. Conclusion: The paper aims to sensitize researchers and practitioners in the field of mental health care for youth in refugee and other humanitarian settings to the importance of conducting epidemiological assessments of the specific need for interventions and of contextually relevant intervention targets.
LncRNA PSMG3-AS1 Downregulates miR-340 through Methylation to Upregulate ROCK1 and Promote Cell Invasion and Migration in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Xiyong , Yang Yang , Dai Yu , Zhang Hongming , Xia Honglin , Kan Qingsheng
Published: January 2021

Background: LncRNA PSMG3‑AS1 plays oncogenic role in breast cancer. However, its role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is hardly known. We then studied the role of PSMG3‑AS1 in NSCLC.Methods: RT-qPCR was performed to determine the expression of PSMG3‑AS1 in NSCLC and non-tumor tissues from 60 NSCLC patients. A survival analysis was carried out to visit patients for 5 years to study the role PSMG3‑AS1 in prediction the survival of NSCLC. NSCLC cells were overexpressed with miR-340 or PSMG3‑AS1 to analyze the crosstalk between PSMG3‑AS1 and miR-340. MSP was performed to analyze the methylation of miR-340 miRNA gene. The invasion and migration abilities of cells were determind by Transwell assays.Results: PSMG3‑AS1 was highly expressed in NSCLC and was closely correlated poor survival. PSMG3‑AS1 and miR340 were inversely correlated. In NSCLC cells, PSMG3‑AS1 decreased the expression of miR-340 and increased methylation of miR-340 gene. However, miR-340 overexpression did not significantly affect the expression of PSMG3‑AS1. In addition, PSMG3‑AS1 overexpression resulted in upregulated expression of ROCK1. PSMG3‑AS1 and ROCK1 overexpression increased cell invasion and migration rates. MiR-340 overexpression suppressed cell behaviors and inhibited the role of PSMG3‑AS1.Conclusions: PSMG3‑AS1 may downregulate miR-340 through methylation to upregulate ROCK1 and promote cell invasion and migration in NSCLC.
Gender Differences in Parenting of Early Adolescents in Viwandani Informal Settlement, Nairobi: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Nyakangi Vivian Nyansarora , Maina Beatrice , Mbuthia Michelle , Bangha Martin
Published: January 2021

Background: Parenting in adolescence is gendered in many dimensions including communication, control, discipline and styles of parenting. Gendered parenting reinforces harmful stereotypical gender norms which can lead to gender inequalities in society. Gender inequalities put adolescent boys and girls at a heightened risk of poor SRH outcomesMethods: The study was conducted in an informal urban settlement, Viwandani, in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi. Focus group discussions were used to collect data from 48 parents of adolescents in grades 5 and 6 in two public day primary schools. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and uploaded to NVivo 12 for coding and thematic analysis.Findings: We found differences in parenting approaches based on the parent’s and/or adolescent’s gender. Based on parents’ gender, fathers had more differential parenting approaches for their sons and daughters while mothers were more consistent for both boys and girls. Fathers held different expectations for their adolescent girls and boys with respect to their roles and responsibilities presently and in the future. Based on the gender of the adolescent, boys had more freedom of movement than girls and girls were more likely to be engaged in SRH discussions with parents as compared to boys. There were also differences in the roles that mothers and fathers played in the family setting.Conclusion: Gender differences in parenting do exist along with male and female roles differing considerably within households. The disconnect in gendered beliefs between men and women implies a greater need to engage men in gender-equitable programming given they have been found to hold gender inequitable attitudes.
LncRNA GAS8-AS1 is a Novel Prognostic and Diagnostic Biomarker for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhang Ling , Li Miao , Deng Lihong , Yang Dujiang , Yue Chao , Li Zhenlu , Hu Weiming , Lu Huimin
Published: January 2021

Background: LncRNA GAS8-AS1 inhibits thyroid carcinoma, but its function in other malignancies is unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the involvement of GAS8-AS1 in pancreatic cancer (PC). Methods: The present study included 68 PC patients (38 males and 30 females, 42- 66 years, 52.1±4.5) and 62 healthy volunteers (28 males and 24 females, 43- 67 years, 52.3 ±4.9). Real-time quantitative PCR, transient cell transfection and in vitro cell migration and invasion assay were applied for the research. In the present study we found that plasma GAS8-AS1 was lower in PC patients than in healthy controls. Downregulation of plasma GAS8-AS1 distinguished early stage PC patients from healthy controls. Results: Patients with low plasma levels of GAS8-AS1 showed significantly lower 5-year overall survival rate. Plasma levels of miR-1179 were also significantly lower in PC patients than in healthy controls, and were positively correlated with plasma levels of GAS8-AS1 only in PC patients. GAS8-AS1 overexpression resulted in the upregulation of miR-1179. MiR-1179 overexpression also led to the overexpression of GAS8-AS1. Overexpression of both GAS8-AS1 and miR-1179 led to inhibited migration and invasion of PC cells. Conclusions: Therefore, GAS8-AS1 may promote PC by positively interacting with miR-1179.
Demographics of Syncope in a Regional Australia
Authors: Chau Ivan , Dastagir Nizam
Published: January 2021

Background Syncope is one of the commonest presentations to the Emergency Departments. There is limited data on the incidence of syncope in regional Australia. Syncope is classified by its aetiological causes and each cause is characterised by different clinical features and prognosis. Identifying the cause of syncope patients is essential to preventing patient morbidity and mortality. Investigating the demographics of syncope in regional Australia may lead to better outcome. Results The age-adjusted causes of syncope showed a significant rise in cardiac syncope in patients aged above 60 (P=0.03) whereas patients below 30 were more likely to suffer from reflex syncope (P=0.0001). There are considerable overlaps such as prodromal symptoms or prior positions of patients between different types of syncope. 77 from 178 Patients (43.3%) would be classified as high risk. 18 out of 24 (75%) cardiac syncope patients were classified as high-risk, whereas barely more than 35% (18 out of 51) of patients with reflex syncope were high-risk. Patients with cardiac syncope were more likely to be admitted or referred for further evaluation such as telemetry, Holter monitor and echocardiogram (P=0.0001). Cause-adjusted mortality showed that patients with orthostatic syncope had significantly worse outcome compared to other groups (P=0.04), cardiac syncope patients were not associated with increased mortality (P=0.37). Conclusions The current study showed that Syncope is a frequent diagnosis within the emergency department. The incidence of syncope of unknown cause remains very high despite extensive investigations. Clinical features such as prodromal symptoms, prior position or activities leading to syncope did not show significantly difference between causes, therefore are unreliable resources in determining the cause of syncope. Orthostatic syncope was associated with the highest mortality rate therefore we recommend paying particular attention, specialist referral and more extensive investigations in patients with orthostatic syncope.
Relationships among Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, Serum Albumin Level, and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio with In-stent Restenosis in Cerebrovascular Bare-Metal Stenting
Authors: Xie Zhuoxi , Wei Jiajun , Fan Ligen , Yang Fan , Fang Qiang , Zhu Zhouming , Wu Jing , Li Hao
Published: January 2021

Background: In-stent restenosis (ISR) remains a serious clinical problem that affects the efficacy of endovascular treatment. Inflammation and platelet activation play an important role in the development of ISR after cerebrovascular bare-metal stenting. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), which are the indicators of inflammation, have been associated with stent restenosis, while low serum albumin (ALB) level has been associated with the adverse outcomes of cardiovascular diseases. We therefore explored the associations among preprocedural NLR, ALB level, and PLR with ISR after cerebrovascular bare-metal stenting and then investigated the value of preprocedural NLR, ALB level, and PLR for the development of ISR. Methods: In this study, we enrolled 223 patients who underwent cerebrovascular bare-metal stenting (both intracranial and extracranial) and retrospectively analyzed their clinical, hematological, and angiographic data. Radiographic evaluations were performed at 6 and 12 months after the procedure. Results: ISR was defined as ≥ 50% stenosis of the treated lesion. Patients were divided into two groups based on the occurrence of ISR. ISR occurred in 89 (39.91%) of the 223 included patients. Increased pre-procedural NLR (p < 0.001) and PLR (p < 0.001) and decreased pre-procedural ALB level (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with ISR. Conclusions: High pre-procedural NLR and PLR, and low pre-procedural ALB level may be used as predictors of ISR after cerebrovascular bare-metal stenting. Trial Registration: retrospective registration.
Maternal Steroid Levels and the Autistic Traits of the Mother and Infant
Authors: Tsompanidis Alexandros , Aydin Ezra , Padaigaite Egle , Richards Gareth , Allison Carrie , Hackett Gerald , Austin Topun , Holt Rosemary , Baron-Cohen Simon
Published: January 2021

Background: Elevated prenatal sex steroids and maternal conditions that are related to sex steroids (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome) have been positively associated with autism likelihood. It is unclear if this is detectable in the maternal circulation, if it relates to maternal autistic traits, and whether it is also predictive of autistic traits in infants. Methods: Maternal serum samples were collected as part of routine prenatal screening from pregnant women taking part in the longitudinal Cambridge Ultrasound Siblings and Parents (CUSP) study (n=219) (gestational age: mean=12.7 [SD=0.8] weeks). Concentrations of the following were measured via immunoassays: testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), progesterone (P); sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Human choriogonadotropin (hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) were collected from clinical records corresponding to the same serum samples. Participants completed the adult Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). Infants were followed-up with the Quantitative Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (Q-CHAT) between 18-20 months old (mean=570 days, SD=21.3 days). Results: Maternal AQ scores significantly correlated with circulating levels of total E2 (Pearson’s r=0.20, p=0.036) and the bioactive fraction of E2 (Pearson’s r=0.26, p=0.008) in univariate and multiple regression models. Total E2, DHEAS and a steroidogenic factor (derived from total E2, DHEAS and T) were all associated with Q-CHAT scores in multiple regression models that controlled for covariates and for an interaction with infant sex. This interaction also had a significant effect, leading to a positive correlation between hormone levels and Q-CHAT scores in males but not in females (interaction term: semipartial correlation r=0.23, p=0.018). The opposite was found for standardised hCG values and Q-CHAT scores, with a positive association in females but not in males (interaction term: semipartial correlation r=-0.22, p=0.009). Limitations: This longitudinal clinical study was relatively small and statistical power was further reduced by the need to account for different effects according to sex. The findings will need to be confirmed in a larger cohort and with clinically diagnosed cases of autism. Conclusion: In line with previous findings, this study’s results suggest that increased steroid synthesis prenatally is related to autistic traits and that this is detectable in the maternal circulation.
Exploring the mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus against uterine fibroids based on network pharmacology
Authors: tiantian qiu , DongHua Li , Yu Liu , LiFang Gao , Chao Wei , Hui Ren , Xuan Yang
Published: January 2021

Backgroud: Uterine fibroids (ULs) are the most common benign tumors of the reproductive tract in gynecology and their clinical presentations include menorrhagia, pelvic pressure, dysmenorrhea, and anemia. Surgical resection and the hormonal drug administration are the primary treatment. The plant Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and studies have shown that it has antitumor effects. However, the role and mechanism of astragalus in ULs are not completely clear. The present study aimed to investigate the astragalus mechanism of action against ULs based on network pharmacology approach, in order to provid insights for the development of a safe and effective drug for the ULs treatment.Methods: The astragalus active ingredients and the potential drug targets were screened by the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database and Analytical Platform (TCMSP). The gene expression profiles of ULs were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The intersection of astragalus components target genes and differentially expressed genes between UL and normal patients were obtained using Perl software to provide the astragalus-ULs drug regulatory network. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was established using the STRING online database and Cytoscape software, followed by the topological properties analysis of the PPI networks. GO (Gene ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) enrichment analyses were conducted by R software. The KEGG relational network was constructed using Cytoscape software. Results: A total of 21 astragalus active ingredients and 406 drug targets were obtained from the TCMSP. Seventeen of these targets overlap with ULs disease targets and were considered potential targets for the ULs treatment by astragalus. The analysis of the regulatory network showed that the astragalus active components with the most targets are quercetin, kaempferol, mangiferin, tetrodotoxin and isorhamnetin. Target genes with the highest Dgree values obtained from the PPI network analysis are estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), tumor suppressor factor p53 (TP53), neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor 1 (NTRK1) and E3 ubiquitin ligase protein (CUL3). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicate that these targets are mainly involved in biological processes related to cellular response to reactive oxygen species, oxidative stress and response to lipopolysaccharides. The main signal transduction pathways involved include the IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways, the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications and proteoglycans in cancer.Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that the astragalus therapeutic use against ULs have multicomponent and multi-target properties, providing a novel approach to further investigate the astragalus mechanism of action in the treatment of ULs.
Assessment of gross lesions preservation methods for the direct diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis: a constant search for improvement
Authors: Cárdenas Nicolás Céspedes , Ikuta Cássia Yumi , Rabaquim Vanessa Cristinne Victor , Filho Antonio Francisco Souza , Souza Gisele Oliveira , Heinemann Marcos Bryan , Neto José Soares Ferreira
Published: January 2021

Objectives

The present study assessed the sensitivity and biosafety of the FTA Elute Card® (FTA) (GE Healthcare) as an alternative preservation method of gross lesions for bovine tuberculosis diagnosis, that can endure large distances and high environmental temperatures, which are found in the Brazilian territory.
Results

The FTA card was compared to the freezing and sodium borate solution methods to preserve 134 gross lesions samples from slaughterhouses located in three Brazilian states. The calculated value for the sensitivity of sodium borate solution (SBS) stored for 30 days was higher than those estimated for the methods of freezing and SBS stored for 60 days, when the PCR and isolation results were interpreted in parallel (0.55). The FTA cards presented the lowest diagnostic sensitivity and did not inactivate all mycobacteria. Given the rush of a slaughterhouse routine, the quantity of lesions with different pathological stages cannot be measured on each FTA card. Thus, as a preservation method of gross tuberculosis lesions, the FTA cards can present infection risks for people who have direct or indirect contact with them.
Unraveling the genetic variability of host resilience to endo and ectoparasites under natural infestation, in Nellore cattle
Authors: Gouveia Gabriela Canabrava , Ribeiro Virgínia Mara Pereira , Fortes Marina Rufino Salinas , Raidan Fernanda Santos Silva , Reverter-Gomez Antonio , de Moraes Mariana Mamedes , de Araújo Andresa Eva Melo , Gonçalves Daniel Resende , Silva Marcos Vinicius Gualberto Barbosa da , Toral Fabio Luiz Buranelo
Published: January 2021

Background:

Host resilience (HR) to parasites can affect growth in pastured raised cattle. This study is a detailed investigation of the genetic mechanisms of HR to ticks (TICK), gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), and Eimeria spp. (EIM) under natural infestation. HR was defined as the slope coefficient of random regression models of body weight (BW) when TICK, GIN, and EIM burdens were used as environmental gradients. The BW was evaluated in five measurement events (ME): when animals were 331, 385, 443, 498, and 555 days old on average. 7307 BW records were available from 1712 animals weighted at least in one ME. Out of those, 1075 animals had valid genotypic information after quality control analysis that were used in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and GWAS meta-analyses to identify genomic regions associated with HR.
Results:

Both the genetic correlations between intercept and HR to each parasite, and the genetic correlations between BW measured in animals submitted to different parasite burden indicated that there was genotype x parasite burden interaction for BW, and selection for BW under environment with controlled parasite burden might be an efficient strategy to improve both, BW and HR. Furthermore, there was no impact of age of measurement on genetic variance estimates for HR to different parasites. However, genetic correlation between HR to the same parasite measured in different ages ranged from low to moderate in magnitude, with a posteriori means (high posterior density interval with 90% of samples) varying from 0.13 (-0.05; 0.35) to 0.40 (0.15; 0.63) for TICK, from 0.11 (-0.06; 0.29) to 0.52 (0.37; 0.67) for GIN and from 0.25 (0.07; 0.43) to 0.56 (0.34; 0.77) for EIM. These results indicate the importance of age of measurement in studies on HR.
Conclusions:

HR to GIN and EIM can be used as a complementary tool to parasitic control management, and a multiple trait selection method that combine BW and HR to parasites should be used in parasitic endemic areas to avoid economic losses due parasitic diseases.
Unmet need for contraception and associated factors among women with cardiovascular disease having follow-up at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mechal Negalign , Negash Mustefa , Bizuneh Hailemichael , Abubeker Ferid A
Published: January 2021

Background

Pregnancies complicated by cardiovascular disease carry a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Contraception offers a unique opportunity to avoid unintended pregnancy and/or optimize preconception cardiac health status. Such planning will also allow possible modification of medical therapy that can be detrimental to the growing fetus. However, unmet need for contraception can become a barrier to achieving these goals. This research was aimed to determine the rate of unmet need for contraceptives and associated factors among women with cardiovascular disease.
Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1 – May 31/2020. A convenient sampling technique was used to enroll 284 reproductive age women with cardiovascular disease having follow-up at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College. Data was collected through an exit interview using a structured and pretested questionnaire. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate methods were used to analyze the level of unmet need and its associated factors.
Results

The overall unmet need for contraception was 36%. The majority of the respondents lack counseling on contraception use. The most common reasons for non-use of a contraceptive method was fear of drug side effects and drug interaction. Unmet need for contraception was found to be more likely among those who have not been counseled on contraceptive utilization (AOR 6.7, CI 1.8–24.7) and those who lack partner support on contraception use (AOR = 6.2, CI: 1.91–19.8). Unmet need was also found to be more likely among women who have never used contraception before (AOR = 3.2, CI 1.12–8.92).
Conclusion

Unmet need for contraception was high in this high-risk population group. Tailored counseling can alleviate fear and concerns about contraceptive use. Appropriate strategies that enhance male partner involvement should also be implemented.
Long non-coding RNA GAS5 aggravate renal epithelial cell apoptosis in cisplatin-induced AKI by regulating miR-205-5p
Authors: Zhang Min , Bi Hui , Wang Shaoyan , Sun Xuejuan , Li Yinan
Published: January 2021

Introduction: The present study focuses on the interaction between long non-coding RNA GAS5 and microRNA-205-5p and their roles in cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury. Methods: Human kidney tubular cells (HK-2) were used to simulate acute renal injury induced by cisplatin with the consequent fluctuating expression levels of GAS5 and MIR-205-5p being determined respectively. Furthermore, the modulating effects of miR-205-5p and GAS5 in cisplatin-induced apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells and the possible binding sites between them were evaluated. Results: The results depicted that the expression of GAS5 was significantly up-regulated after AKI induced by cisplatin, while inhibiting the increase of expression would alleviate the apoptotic-promoting effect of cisplatin on renal tubular epithelial cells. MIR-205-5p is negatively regulated by GAS5, thus down-regulation of GAS5 will consequently elevate the expression of miR-205-5p and further alleviate the damage of HK-2 cells induced by cisplatin. Conclusions: In conclusion, in cisplatin-induced AKI, the expression of GAS5 was increased and consequently inhibited that of miR-205-5p by direct binding, which eventually aggravate the renal tubular epithelial injury, indicating their potential of being important diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in the treatment of cisplatin-induced AKI.