bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health literacy and health outcomes in China’s floating population: mediating effects of health services
Authors: Yu Haiyan , Wu Wei-ling , Wu Lei , Yu lin-wei
Published: June 2020

Background: Health literacy is an important behavioral factor for promoting health and disease prevention. This study aimed to examine whether health literacy affected health outcomes in China’s floating population and whether health service utilization had a mediating effect between health literacy and health outcomes. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out in Zhejiang Province, China, in November and December 2019. Self-reported questionnaires were used for data collection, which included sociodemographic characteristics, health literacy, health outcomes, and health service utilization. On the basis of reliability testing, confirmatory factor analysis was used to test questionnaire validity. Descriptive statistics were used to understand the demographic characteristics of the floating population, and structural equation modeling was used for the mediation test to check whether health service utilization had a mediating effect between health literacy and health outcomes. Results: There were positive correlations between health literacy, health service utilization, and health outcomes; correlation coefficients ranged from 0.165 to 0.944. Mediation analysis showed that health service utilization had partial mediating effects between health literacy and health outcomes. In the relationship between health literacy and health outcomes, the indirect effects of health service utilization accounted for 6.6%–8.7% of the total effects. Conclusion: Health service utilization has partial mediating effects between health literacy and health outcomes. Health literacy affects the proactiveness of health service utilization in the floating population through healthcare literacy and health promotion, thereby affecting health outcomes.
HYPOfractionated Radiation Therapy Comparing A Standard Radiotherapy Schedule (Over Three Weeks) with A Novel One Week Schedule in Adjuvant Breast Cancer: An Open-Label Randomised Controlled Study (HYPORT- Adjuvant): Study Protocol for a Multicenter, Randomized Phase III Trial.
Authors: Chatterjee Sanjoy , Chakraborty Santam , Group HYPORT Adjuvant Author
Published: June 2020

Background

Hypofractionated radiotherapy is the current standard for adjuvant radiotherapy across many centres. Further hypofractionation may be possible but remains to be investigated in non-caucasian populations with more advanced disease, with a higher proportion of patients requiring mastectomy as well as tumour bed boost. We are reporting the design of randomized controlled trial testing the hypothesis that a one week (5 fractions) regimen of radiotherapy will be non-inferior to a standard three week (15 fractions) schedule. Methods

We describe a multicenter, randomized controlled trial recruiting patients at large academic centres across India. Patients without distant metastases who merit adjuvant radiotherapy will be eligible for inclusion in the study. Patients in the control arm will receive adjuvant radiotherapy to the breast or chest wall (with/without regional nodes) to a dose of 40 Gy / 15 fractions / 3 weeks, while those in the experimental arm will receive a dose of 26 Gy / 5 fractions / 1 week (to the same volume). Use of a simultaneous integrated boost (dose of 8 Gy and 6 Gy respectively) is allowed in patients who have undergone breast conservation. A sample size of 2100 patients provides an 80% power to detect a non-inferiority of 3% in the 5-year locoregional recurrence rate with a one-sided type I error of 2.5%, assuming that the locoregional recurrence rate in the control arm is 5% at 5 years (corresponding to a hazard ratio of 1.63). Patients will be recruited over a period of 5 years, and followed up for a further 5 years thereafter. Discussion

If a five-fraction regimen of breast cancer is proven to be non-inferior, this will result in a significant improvement in the access to radiotherapy, as well as reduced costs of treatment. The trial gives an opportunity to standardize and quality assure radiotherapy practices across the nation at the same time. Along with the results of the FAST Forward trial, the safety of this intervention in advanced node-positive disease requiring regional nodal radiation will be established.
Trial Registration

The trial has been registered at the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI) vide registration number: CTRI/2018/12/016816 (31/12/2018) as well as the clinical trial.gov website at NCT03788213 (28/12/2018).
Higher aggrecan 1-F21 epitope concentration in synovial fluid early after anterior cruciate ligament injury is associated with worse knee cartilage quality assessed by gadolinium enhanced magnetic resonance imaging 20 years later
Authors: Neuman Paul , Larsson Staffan , Lohmander L Stefan , Struglics André
Published: June 2020

Objective. To investigate if cartilage related biomarkers in synovial fluid are associated with knee cartilage status 20 years after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Methods. We studied 25 patients with a complete ACL rupture without subsequent ACL reconstruction or radiographic knee OA. All had a delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of cartilage (dGEMRIC) 20 years after the ACL injury, using the T1 transverse relaxation time in the presence of gadolinium (T1Gd) which estimates the concentration of glycosaminoglycans in hyaline cartilage. Synovial fluid samples were aspirated acutely (between 0 and 18 days) and during 1 to 5 follow up visits between 0.5 and 7.5 years after injury. We quantified synovial fluid concentrations of aggrecan (epitopes 1-F21 and ARGS), cartilage oligomeric matrix protein, matrix metalloproteinase-3 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 by immunoassays, and sulfated glycosaminoglycans by Alcian blue precipitation. Results. Linear regression analyses (adjusted for age, sex, body mass index and time between injury and sampling) showed that acute higher synovial fluid 1-F21-aggrecan concentrations were associated with shorter T1Gd values 20 years after injury, i.e. inferior cartilage quality (standardized effects between -0.67 and -1.0). No other statistically significant association was found between molecular biomarkers and T1Gd values. Conclusion. Higher acute synovial fluid 1-F21-aggrecan concentrations in ACL injured patients, who managed to cope without ACL reconstruction and were without radiographic knee OA, were associated with worse knee cartilage quality assessed by dGEMRIC 20 years after injury.
Survival Analysis of COVID-19 on Democracy with Cox Proportional Hazards Model
Authors: Zhao Yue , Dilip Deepika
Published: June 2020

Background: The outbreak of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has struck us in many ways and we observed that China and South Korea found an effective measure to contain the virus. Conversely, the United States and the European countries are struggling to fight the virus. China is not considered a democracy and South Korea is less democratic than the United States. Therefore, we want to explore the association between the deaths of COVID-19 and democracy. Methods: We collected COVID-19 deaths data for each country from the Johns Hopkins University website and democracy indices of 2018 from the Economist Intelligence Unit website in May 2020. Then we conducted a survival analysis, regarding each country as a subject, with the Cox Proportional Hazards Model, adjusting for other selected variables. Result: The result showed that the association between democracy and deaths of COVID-19 was significant (P=0.04), adjusting for other covariates. Conclusion: In conclusion, less democratic governments performed better in containing the virus and controlling the number of deaths.
The Quantitative Proteomics Analysis in Glioblastoma After HULC Silencing
Authors: Ye Shan , Wang Yiran , Yin Tiantian , Hu Yuchen , He Jie
Published: June 2020

Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a malignant intracranial tumor threatening patients' survival. The study aimed to find the menchanisms of lncRNA highly up-regulated in liver cancer (HULC) affecting GBM or involved signaling pathways, which may providing theoretical support for targeted therapy.Methods: Two cell lines were constructed: HULC-small interfering RNA (siRNA) and negative control. Then qRT-PCR was operated to detect the transfection efficiency and quantitative proteomics based on mass spectrometry (MS) were conducted. Finally, the differentially expressed proteins were analyzed in gene ontology (GO) classification and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment.Results: The relative expression level of HULC in HULC-siRNA was significantly lower than that in NC detected by qRT-PCR. A total of 136 differentially expressed proteins were identified, including 24 down-regulated and 112 up-regulated. GO classification results illustrated that they were centralized in cellular or single-organism process and biological regulation in biological process, cell and organelle in cellular component, binding and catalytic activity in molecular function. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicated that some were sinificantly enriched, including tight junction, metabolic pathways and arachidonic acid metabolism. It was further discovered that PLA2G4A was down regulated obviously after HULC silencing.Conclusion: HULC changed the proteomics characteristics of GBM, including regulating the expression of PLA2G4A. This study provided a new perspective on the menchanisms and potential drug targets of GBM.
Retrospective Cohort Study on Radial Head Arthroplasty Comparing Long-Term Outcomes Between Valgus Type Injury and Fracture Dislocation
Authors: Chen Alvin Chao-Yu , Weng Chun-Jui , Chiu Chih-Hao , Chang Shih-Sheng , Cheng Chun-Ying , Chan Yi-Sheng
Published: June 2020

Background: Radial head arthroplasty (RHA) has been commonly adopted for irreparable radial head fractures while little information is addressed on valgus type injury. The purpose of this study is to report long-term outcomes and radiographic analysis in RHA for valgus type injury with comparison to fracture dislocation injury.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients receiving unilateral RHA with loose-fit, modular metal prosthesis for irreparable radial head fractures between 2004 and 2012. Totally, 33 patients with a mean follow up of nine years (range, 7 to 15 years) were enrolled and divided into two groups including 14 valgus injuries and 19 fracture-dislocations. Demographics of the patients, injury details, clinical and radiographic outcomes, and correlation analysis were investigated and compared between two groups.Results: In patient demographics, significant difference was noted in sex distribution, lateral collateral ligament involvement and time from injury to RHA between two groups. No patient underwent subsequent removal or revision of prosthesis. Good to excellent results according to Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was achieved in 13 and 14 patients in group A and B respectively. Final motion range and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was significantly better in valgus injury group. Radiographic analysis demonstrated fewer patients in valgus injury group presented periprosthetic osteolysis with weak to moderate negative correlation between radiolucency score and MEPS.Conclusions: With an average of nine years follow-up, RHA using loose-fit, modular metal prosthesis achieves encouraging outcomes for both valgus injury and fracture dislocation. In valgus type injury, better motion range, lower disability score and lower incidence of periprosthetic osteolysis is noted while correlation analysis of radiolucency score suggests extended, long-term investigation.
An in vitro bioengineered model of the human arterial neurovascular unit to study neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Robert Jerome , Weilinger Nicholas , Zao Li-Ping , Cataldi Stefano , Button Emily , Stukas Sophie , Martin Emma , Seibler Philip , Gilmour Megan , Caffrey Tara M , Rowe Elyn M , MacVicar Brian , Farrer Matthew , Wellington Cheryl
Published: June 2020

Introduction: The neurovascular unit (NVU) – the interaction between the neurons and the cerebrovasculature – is increasingly important to interrogate through human-based experimental models. Although advanced models of cerebral capillaries have been developed in the last decade, there is currently noin vitro3-dimensional (3D) perfusible model of the human cortical arterial NVU. Method: We used a tissue-engineering technique to develop a scaffold-directed, perfusible, 3D human NVU that is cultured in native-like flow conditions that mimics the anatomy and physiology of cortical penetrating arteries. Results: This system, composed of primary human vascular cells (endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and astrocytes) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived neurons, demonstrates a physiological multilayer organization of the involved cell types. It also reproduces key characteristics of cortical neurons and astrocytes, as well as the formation of a selective and functional endothelial barrier. We further provide proof-of-principle that our in vitro human arterial NVU may be suitable to study neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), as we report both phosphorylated tau and beta-amyloid accumulation in our model over time. Finally, we show that our arterial NVU model enables the study of neuronal and glial fluid biomarkers. Conclusion: This model is a suitable tool to investigate arterial NVU functions such as neuronal electrophysiology in health and disease. Further the design of platform allows culture under native-like flow conditions for extended periods of time and yields sufficient tissue and media for downstream immunohistochemistry and biochemistry analyses.
Use of patient derived urine renal epithelial cells to confirm pathogenicity of PKHD1 alleles
Authors: Molinari Elisa , Srivast Shalabh , Dewhurst Rebecca M. , Sayer John
Published: June 2020

Background

PKHD1 is the main genetic cause of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), a hereditary hepato-renal fibrocystic disorder which is the most important cause of end-stage renal disease during early childhood. ARPKD can also present in adulthood with milder phenotypes. In this study, we describe a 24-year-old woman with atypical polycystic kidney, no family history of renal disease and no obvious extra-renal manifestations who was referred for genetic investigation.

Methods

We used a combination of next generation sequencing, Sanger sequencing and RNA and microscopy studies performed on urine-derived renal epithelial cells (URECs) to provide a genetic diagnosis of ARPKD.

Results

A next generation sequencing panel of cystic ciliopathy genes allowed the identification of two heterozygous sequence changes in PKHD1 (c.6900C>T; p.(Asn2300=) and c.7964A>C; p.(His2655Pro)). The pathogenicity of the synonymous PKHD1 variant is not clear and requires RNA studies, which cannot be carried out efficiently on RNA extracted from proband blood, due to the low expression levels of PKHD1 in lymphocytes.

Using URECs as a source of kidney-specific RNA, we show that PKHD1 is alternatively spliced around exon 43, both in control and proband URECs. The variant p.(Asn2300=) shifts the expression ratio in favour of a shorter, out-of-frame transcript. To further study the phenotypic consequence of these variants, we investigated the ciliary phenotype of patient URECs, which were abnormally elongated and presented multiple blebs along the axoneme.

Conclusions

We confirm the power of URECs as a tool for functional studies on candidate variants in inherited renal disease, especially when the expression of the gene of interest is restricted to the kidney and we describe, for the first time, ciliary abnormalities in ARPKD patient cells.
Fears, feelings and findings about COVID-19 disease in hospitalized cancer patients in a tertiary Hospital in Spain.
Authors: Arrue Benjamin Domingo , Jurado Domingo de Guzmán Ordaz , Marí Rosa María Pastor , Ortega Ana Tarazona , Saus Lucía Fos , Olmos Carlos Puchades , Martínez Alba Torres , Polo Diego Soriano , Montagud Guillermo Suay , Beveridge Roberto Diaz , Sarrió Regina Gironés , Codina José Gómez
Published: June 2020

IntroductionOn March 11th, COVID-19 was categorized as a pandemic. Risk factors for poor outcome in COVID-19 disease include personal history of cancer. The purpose of this research is to explore what do cancer patients know about COVID-19 and their perception of infection risk.MethodsA pilot questionnaire was initiated in hospitalized cancer patients at a large academic medical center to explore fears and other issues related with COVID-19 disease and cancer patients. A stratified analysis by age, sex, marital status, educational background, number of previous systemic treatments received and hospitalization cause was carried out. χ² test, Fisher’s exact test, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and Kendall rank correlation coefficient were performed when indicated on each category.Results33 patients were included. 66.7% of patients were male and 33.3% female, with a median age of 57 years old. Natural origin hypothesis of novel coronavirus and high educational levels (tau-c = 0.260, p = 0.040) had a positive moderate correlation. Young cancer patients are more afraid of a SARS-CoV-2 infection than elderly people (p=0.034). Thinking there are differences in COVID-19 symptoms due to cancer treatments had a positive moderate correlation with the number of treatments received (tau-b = 0.342, p = 0.005).ConclusionCancer patients need more information about coronavirus and how can affect them. Some of them are not aware of how can cancer increase their risk of infection. However, they agree with measures that hospitals have implemented and don’t feel they affect the quality of care they receive when admitted.
Is precise open excision a more suitable surgical method for osteoid osteoma?
Authors: Yuan Yuhao , Long Feng , Liu Qing , Wu Ziyi , He Hongbo , Luo Wei
Published: June 2020

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of precise open excision surgery to treat osteoid osteoma with C-arm assisted precise localization during the operation.
Methods

From June 2010 to June 2017, patients with osteoid osteoma of the extremities who had undergone treatment by high speed burr grinding, full scratching with curette, and C-arm assisted lesion localization during the operation were analyzed retrospectively. The preoperative and postoperative pain was assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring. The patients were followed up regularly, and the advantages, effects, and complications of the therapeutic technique were analyzed.
Results

The study consisted of 94 patients (59 males, 35 females; mean age, 17.6 ± 8.5 years) and they were followed up for a mean of 38.9 months (range, 24–72 months). All patients were diagnosed with osteoid osteoma by postoperative pathological examination. Follow-up consisted of imaging reexamination and clinical evaluation. If the patients did not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) before the operation, the mean pre-operative VAS score was 6.7, and the mean VAS score of all patients was 0 one month after operation. The mean time for all patients to resume normal daily activities was 14.3 days (range, 10–21 days). There was no recurrence of pain, infection, vascular or nerve injury, and fracture complications during the follow-up. In only one case of distal femur osteoid osteoma (OO), review X-ray found a suspected recurrence 50 months after the primary surgery and subsequently, the patient underwent a second surgery. Till date, the patient has reported no discomfort following the second surgery.
Conclusions

For treatment of osteoid osteoma, open incision and minimal resection with C-arm assisted tumor localization is still a suitable method, especially for osteoid osteoma located on the surface of the cortical bone.
China and Deglobalization of the World Economy
Authors: Stanojevic Natasa , Zakic Katarina
Published: June 2020

This paper analyses the causes of the downward trend in three key cohesion aspects of the world economy: international trade, foreign investment and global value chains. The paper finds that causes of these trends are not cyclical, but structural, that is, the process of deglobalization of the international market and transformation of the very foundations of the international economic system is underway. The specific aim of the paper is to investigate the impact of current trends on China's economy. The question is whether the Chinese economy, which has developed due to globalization processes, will be negatively affected by reverse processes and to what extent. The empirical analysis reveals very strong dependence of the Chinese economy on international economic trends. In spite of new development strategy which includes separation of the Chinese economy from disturbing external effects, most of current deglobalization trends have strong negative effects.
Influence of Contractors Management Practices on Performance of Housing Construction Projects in Kisii County, Kenya
Authors: Momanyi Theophanus Nyakundi , Kamau Lucy Ngugi
Published: June 2020

Performance of housing projects is expected to be good if constructions are done in conformance with specific standards, being of good quality, completed in time, and meeting clients’ needs. However, the fact that houses are constructed through the use of improper time-frames, poor materials, as well as inadequate planning affects overall quality of the projects. This study was to investigate how contractors’ management practices influence housing projects performance in Kisii County. The study employed a descriptive study design. The target population was the 206 registered contractors in Kisii County from where a sample of 136 respondents was taken through simple random sampling approach. A questionnaire was used to collect data and the data obtained was cleaned, sorted and organized using SPSS. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse data. The results obtained showed that housing construction projects are affected by contractors’ management practices which include planning practices, conformance to industry standards, implementation of designs, and financial management practices respectively which were found to have a positive influence on projects performance. The possible beneficiaries of the study include academicians in the field of project management and contractors.
Assessment of Disease Activity by Infrared Thermography in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study of Thermographic, Clinical and Ultrasound Assessments
Authors: VINSON DOROTHEE , paris Caroline , Lafforgue Pierre , Richez Christophe , Pradel Vincent , Pham Thao
Published: June 2020

OBJECTIVES: To compare RA activity evaluation by thermal imaging with a camera adjustable to cellphones, standard clinical examination and ultrasound.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Monocentric study with 3 independent evaluations of RA activity: 1) tender (TJC) and swollen joints count (SJC) of wrists, MCP and PIP; 2) Ultrasound (US) examination with mode B and Power Doppler (PDUS); 3) thermographic assessment using infrared thermal cellphone camera FLIR One®. Thermal images analysis with (a) software detecting 10 regions of interest (ROI) corresponding to the studied joints and (b) by color reading (arthritis yes/no). For each ROI, temperature difference measurement “ΔT-joint” (ΔTj) compared to the ipsilateral forearm (reference area) and comparison of ΔTj to a) TJC and SJC; b) US synovitis in B mode or c) PDUS grade (0,1,2,3); d) synovitis in visual detection on thermographic image. T-tests and ANOVA were performed.RESULTS: 53 patients (43 women) with a mean (SD) age of 61.6 (12.3) years, totaling 921 examined joints. Mean disease duration was 17.6 (11.1) years. RA status was 81% ACPA+, 58% erosive, mean DAS28 score was 4.0 (1.6).Mean ΔTj was higher in tender (p<0.001), swollen (p=0.066) joints and in US synovitis in B mode (p=0.021). Mean ΔTj was not associated with PDUS category (p-ANOVA=0.072). Synovitis detected with thermal image reading was associated with PDUS grade 3 (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Our results did not show the ability of thermal imaging to assess RA activity in small joints. However, our results are encouraging as temperature variation were observed in inflammatory joints.
Impact of the COVID-19 virus outbreak on movement and play behaviours of Canadian children and youth: A national survey
Authors: Moore Sarah A , Faulkner Guy , Rhodes Ryan E , Brussoni Mariana , Chulak-Bozzer Tala , Ferguson Leah J , Mitra Raktim , O'Reilly Norm , Spence John C , Vanderloo Leigh M , Tremblay Mark S
Published: June 2020

Background: Healthy child and youth development is fostered through sufficient physical activity (PA; including time outdoors), limiting sedentary behaviours (SB), and adequate sleep; collectively known as movement behaviours. Though the COVID-19 virus outbreak has changed the daily lives of children and youth, it is unknown to what extent related restrictions may compromise the ability to play and meet movement behaviour recommendations. This study examined the immediate impacts of COVID-19 restrictions on movement and play behaviours in children and youth.Methods: A national sample of Canadian parents (n=1,472) of children (5-11 years) or youth (12-17 years) (54% girls) completed an online survey that assessed immediate changes in child movement and play behaviours during the COVID-19 outbreak. Behaviours included PA and play, SB, and sleep. Family demographics and parental factors that may influence movement behaviours were assessed. Correlations between behaviours and demographic and parental factors were determined. For open-ended questions, word frequency distributions were reported.Results: Only 4.8% (2.8% girls, 6.5% boys) of children and 0.8% (1.1% girls, 0.5% boys) of youth were meeting combined movement behaviour guidelines during COVID-19 restrictions. Children and youth had lower PA levels, less outside time, higher SB (including screen time), and more sleep during the outbreak. Parental encouragement and support, parental engagement in PA, and family dog ownership were positively associated with healthy movement behaviours. Although families spent less time in PA and more time in SB, several parents reported adopting new hobbies or accessing new resources.Conclusions: This study provides evidence of immediate collateral consequences of the COVID-19 outbreak, demonstrating an adverse impact on the movement and play behaviours of Canadian children and youth. These findings can guide efforts to preserve and promote child health during the COVID-19 outbreak and crisis recovery period, and to inform strategies to mitigate potential harm during future pandemics.
Clinical Characteristics and Comparative Analysis of Covid-19 Patients With or Without HIV Coinfection in Wuhan, China
Authors: Yang Rongrong , Gui Xien , Zhang Yongxi , Xiong Yong , Gao Shicheng , Ke Hengning
Published: June 2020

Background: COVID-19 is a public health emergency that is spreading worldwide and seriously affecting global economy. Information about the impact of HIV co-infection and anti-HIV drugs on the clinical characteristics and prognosis of COVID-19 patients remains limited.Methods: In this retrospective study, the maximum body temperatures, fever duration, chest computed tomography changes and viral shedding, lymphocyte counts changes and titer of SARS-CoV-2 antibody were compared between COVID-19 patients with and without HIV infection in Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University from January 20th to February 14th, 2020. Results: Compared with 50 control COVID-19 patients, the two COVID-19/HIV co-infection patients had higher maximum body temperatures(40.2℃ and 40.3℃ vs 38.2℃), longer fever duration(11 days and 15 days vs 7 days), longer time of lung recovery(20 days and 24 days vs 14 days), shorter duration of viral shedding after the onset of symptoms(6 days and 4 days vs 10 days). Compared with three COVID-19 infection colleagues who had exposure history with the same COVID-19 patient, the third COVID-19/HIV co-infection patient had the same duration of viral shedding after exposure(29 days vs 29 days), lower titer of SARS-CoV-2 IgG(negative vs positive for all). Conclusion: For patients co-infected with HIV, the clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection were diverse. The ability of those COVID-19/HIV co-infection patients with severe immunodeficiency to produce SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were weakened. The small sample in this study implied that the effects of anti-HIV drugs in prevention and treatment of COVID-19 appears to be limited.
Functional selection associated with microbial genome size under polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) pollution stress in soils
Authors: Dong Yuzhu , Wu Shanghua , Fan Haonan , Li Xianglong , Li Yijing , Xu Shengjun , Bai Zhihui , Zhuang Xuliang
Published: June 2020

Background

Bacteria can adapt to complex environmental conditions by expanding or reducing their genomes. Microbes with large genomes carry a more diverse gene pool and thus have more metabolic function than those with small genomes. Various environmental disturbances have been investigated and proved to be important in determining the community genome sizes. However the impacts of environmental pollution remain poorly understood, which is a selective factor. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous pollutants that cause great damage to the natural environment and health. Here, we conducted incubation experiments under different concentrations to evaluate the impacts of organic pollution stress on the community genome size. Besides, changes of community structure, functions and potential key genes in different concentrations were illustrated by 16S rRNA amplicon gene sequencing and quantitative-PCR.
Results

We found the distinct communities of significantly larger genome size with the increase of PAHs concentration gradients in soils. Highly contaminated soil notably enhanced functions relative to xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism, environmental information processing and signaling molecules and interaction. Abundance of Proteobacteria and Deinococcus-Thermus with relatively larger genomes increased along with PAHs stress and well adapted to polluted environments, while abundance of Patescibacteria with a highly streamlined and smaller genome decreased. Co-ccurrence network analysis indicated a decreased average clustering coefficient but an increased connection number per node positively related to nidA gene along the concentration gradients. Moreover, nidA gene, appearing as an indicator, showed positive correlation with community genome size and PAHs concentrations.
Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the significant impact of pollution stress on genome size and clarify that the increase in genome size is due to the directional selection for microorganisms with larger genomes or carrying specific functional genes and the increased capacity for horizontal transfer of degrading genes between communities.
Association of Serum Vitamin D and Calcium Levels With the Severity of Intertrochanteric Fractures in the Elderly: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hwang Seok-Min , Hwang Suk-Hyun , Kim Yeon-Ho
Published: June 2020

Background: Femur intertrochanteric fractures can be classified into stable and unstable fractures according to their severity. Postoperative complications and mortality were more common in patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures. However, there has been little effort to evaluate the risk factors of the two fracture types. This study aimed to identify the possible differences in demographic and clinical characteristics of older patients with different types of intertrochanteric fractures.Methods: The medical records of patients aged ≥60 years who presented with intertrochanteric fractures from June 2018 to March 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Fifty-seven patients were enrolled and divided into two groups according to severity: stable (21 patients) and unstable (36 patients). Demographic data, body mass index (BMI), ambulatory ability prior to fracture, pre-fracture residence, season at fracture, bone mineral density (BMD), and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], osteocalcin, and calcium levels were compared between the two groups. Additionally, we analyzed the correlation among variables.Results: The stable group had significantly higher serum 25(OH)D and calcium levels than the unstable group (p = 0.010, p = 0.019). There were no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in age, sex, height, weight, BMI, ambulatory ability prior to fracture, pre-fracture residence, season at fracture, BMD, and serum osteocalcin level between the two groups. In addition, serum 25(OH)D and calcium levels were not correlated with any of the variables in all patients.Conclusion: Low vitamin D and calcium levels are associated with unstable intertrochanteric fracture in elderly patients. Maintaining adequate vitamin D and calcium levels could avoid an increase in the severity of intertrochanteric fractures.
Vitamin C Ameliorates Tetrahydrocannabinol-Induced Spermatotoxicity In-Vitro
Authors: Alagbonsi Abdullateef Isiaka , Olayaki Luqman Aribidesi
Published: June 2020

Background: We investigated the in-vitro effects of vitamin C on delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced reduction in sperm motility and kinematics. Methods: Rats semen were randomly divided into 5 groups. Groups I-III received placebo, THC (1 mM), and vitamin C (5 mM) respectively. Groups IV and V received THC and vitamin C, but group V was additionally pre-treated with cannabinoid receptors’ blockers (CBs-) 1 (SR141716) and 2 (AM-630). Results: The sperm progressive motility, average path velocity (VAP), curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight-line velocity (VSL), amplitude of lateral head (ALH) and beat cross frequency (BCF) were reduced by THC but increased by vitamin C when compared to control. Vitamin C inhibited the THC-induced reduction in these parameters in the absence of CBs- 1 and 2, and even caused additional increases in progressive motility, VAP and VCL above the control levels with CBs-. Conclusion: In conclusion, vitamin C ameliorates THC-induced reduction in sperm motility in-vitro by modulation of sperm kinematics.
Clinical Phenotypes and Heath-Related Quality of Life of COPD Patients in a Rural Setting in Malaysia – A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chai Chee-Shee , Mos Sumastika Bt , Ng Diana-Leh-Ching , Goh Greta-Miranda-Kim-Choo , Su Anselm-Ting , Ibrahim Muhammad Amin Bin , Musa Aisya Natasya Bt , Tan Seng-Beng , Pang Yong-Kek , Liam Chong-Kim
Published: June 2020

Background:The Spanish chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) guideline phenotypes patients according to the exacerbation frequency and COPD subtypes. In this study, we compared the patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL) according to their COPD phenotypes.Methods:This was a cross-sectional study of COPD patients who attended the outpatient clinic of the Serian Divisional Hospital and Bau District Hospital from 23th January 2018 to 22th January 2019. The HRQoL was assessed using modified Medical Research Council (mMRC), COPD Assessment Test (CAT), and St George's Respiratory Questionnaire for COPD (SGRQ-c). Results:Of 185 patients, 108 (58.4%) were non-exacerbators (NON-AE), 51 (27.6%) were frequent exacerbators (AE), and the remaining 26 (14.1%) had asthma-COPD overlap (ACO). Of AE patients, 42 (82.4%) had chronic bronchitis and only 9 (17.6%) had emphysema. Of the COPD patients, 65.9% had exposure to biomass fuel and 69.1% were ex- or current smokers. The scores of mMRC, CAT, and SGRQ-c were significantly different between COPD phenotypes (p < 0.001). There were significantly more patients with mMRC 2 – 4 among AE (68.6%) (p < 0.001), compared to those with ACO (38.5%) and NON-AE (16.7%). AE patients had significantly higher total CAT (p = 0.003; p < 0.001) and SGRQ-c (both p < 0.001) scores than those with ACO and NON-AE. Patients with ACO also had significantly higher total CAT and SGRQ-c (both p < 0.001) scores than those with NON-AE. AE patients had significantly higher score in each item of CAT and component of SGRQ-c compared to those with NON-AE (all p < 0.001), and ACO [(p = 0.003 – 0.016; p = < 0.001 – 0.005) except CAT 1, 2 and 7. ACO patients had significantly higher score in each item of CAT and component of SGRQ-c (p = < 0.001 – 0.040; p < 0.001) except CAT 2 and activity components of SGRQ-c.Conclusions:The HRQoL of COPD patients was significantly different across COPD phenotypes. HRQoL was worst in AE, followed by ACO and NON-AE. This study supports phenotyping COPD patients based on their exacerbation frequency and COPD subtypes. The treatment of COPD should be personalised according to these two factors.
Feasibility of Using Common Data Model for Orthopedic Research: Analysis of Risk Factors for Periprosthetic Joint Infection after Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Chae Young Ju , Shin Jin Ho , Jung Sung Jae , Gong Hyun Sik
Published: June 2020

Background: Common data model (CDM) is a standardized data structure defined to efficiently use different sources in hospitals. A study using the CDM is scarce for orthopedic outcome researches due to the complexity of variables. We aimed to test the feasibility of applying CDM in the orthopedic field and analyzed risk factors for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total joint arthroplasty (TJA) using CDM.Methods: We undertook a retrospective cohort study of all primary and revision hip and knee TJAs at our institution from January 2003 to October 2017. We identified potential risk factors for PJI after TJAs in the literatures, which included preoperative demographic/social factors, previous medical history, intraoperative factors, laboratory results and others. The data sourced from EMR was extracted, transformed, and loaded into CDM.Results: Variables such as demographic/social factors, medical history and laboratory results could be converted into CDM, but the other known risk factors could not. In total, 12,320 primary hip and knee TJAs and 120 revision arthroplasties were identified. Among them, 34 revisions were done because of PJI. Risk factors of PJI were hypertension and urinary tract infection after total hip arthroplasty, and age (70-79 years), male sex, anemia, steroid use, and urinary tract infection after total knee arthroplasty. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that orthopedic outcome researches using CDM is feasible although data converting to CDM was possible for limited factors. Further data transforming technologies need to be developed to analyze more factors relevant to orthopedic area, such as intraoperative factors and imaging findings.
Does Serum Vitamin D Concentration Modify the Association Between Arthritis and Cardiovascular Diseases in Both Sexes?
Authors: Saade Rachelle , Laurin Danielle , Dionne Clermont E.
Published: June 2020

Background: The scientific literature shows an association between inflammatory arthritis and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) with inflammation being a shared characteristic between the two types of diseases. Among patients with arthritis, it is possible that the protective factors against inflammation, such as vitamin D, are also protective factors against the development of CVD. This effect may be different according to sex.Objective: To evaluate the impact of serum vitamin D concentration on the association between arthritis and CVD separately among men and women (effect modification of vitamin D and sex).Methods: Data came from a large representative sample of the US population: the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2006, which included 3406 adults aged between 20 and 69 years. Measurements of arthritis (primary independent variable) and CVD (dependent variable) were taken during face-to-face interviews, while the measurement of serum vitamin D was carried out on blood samples. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed in which the combined modifying effect of vitamin D (<20 ng/ml/> 20 ng/ml) and sex was tested, and adjusted for several potentially confounding variables.Results: Arthritis was statistically associated with CVD in both men and women, with <20 ng/ml or >20 ng/ml serum vitamin D. In men, the adjusted ratio of the odds ratios (ROR) comparing the association at <20 ng/ml vitamin D concentration to the association at >20 ng/ml concentration was 0.8 (95% CI 0.5 to 1.5); in women, the adjusted ROR was 0.7 (95% CI 0.3 to 1.5). Conclusions: In this large cross-sectional study, arthritis and CVD were statistically associated, but this association was not modified by sex nor vitamin D concentrations. Vitamin D supplementation is not recommended as part of the management of patients of both sexes suffering from inflammatory arthritis to prevent CVD.
Magnitude and factors associated with anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal care at St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis ababa, Ethiopia - a cross sectional type of study
Authors: Umuro Desta Samuel , Asres Yared Lasebew , Muluneh Gezahegn Mamo
Published: June 2020

Background

This study aimed to assess magnitude and factors associated with anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods

Institution based cross sectional study design was conducted from December 1–30, 2018 on 405 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic. All pregnant women visiting the Antenatal care clinic during the study period and who fulfilled the eligibility criteria were included in the study. Secondary data was collected from clients register and personal files on hemoglobin, HIV, stool, and other variables. Descriptive statistics was used to analysis some variables by using SPSS. Logistic regression was carried out to identify factors associated with anemia in pregnancy. Adjusted odds ratio with their 95% of confidence interval and p < 0.05 are consider to have significant association.
Results

The magnitude of Anemia in pregnant women in this study was 19.8%, (95% CI 16.00-23.70). HIV infection (AOR = 6.12(95% CI 2.19, 17.08) parasitic infestation (AOR = 11.88 (95% CI 5.60, 25.20) and history of not taking fruit after meal during pregnancy (AOR = 3.12(95% CI 1.72, 5.67) were the major determinants of anemia.
Conclusion

This study showed that the magnitude of anemia among pregnant women was high especially at third trimester. Living with HIV /AIDS, parasitic infestation and no history of taking fruits after meal were the main factors.
The clinical characteristics of hip fracture: during the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic
Authors: Zhang Hongjie , Lin Zengping , Zhong Jiping , Nie Darong , Song Hongmei , Huang Wen , Gao Shan , Zhang Jiafang
Published: June 2020

Background The aim of this study was to assess the characteristics of hip fracture during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic.Method Hip-facture patients undergoing surgery from January 26 to March 31, 2020 (group A) and from January 26 to March 31, 2019 (group B) were retrospectively included. The durations from injury onset to hospital discharge, hospitalization cost, comorbidity, and complications of patients in the two groups were collected. The daily activity and light exposure time, and medical treatment interruption of patients in group A before and during their self-quarantine were also collected. In addition, the reasons for those with hospital admission delay were inquired.Results During the COVID-19 epidemic, patients with hip fracture was increased by 9 cases (69.23%). Patients in group A underwent an over 20-hour longer duration from the injury onset to hospital, an over 3-day longer hospitalization stay, and more hospitalization cost of over 4-thousand yuan compared with those for patients in group B (P < 0.05). The self-quarantine led to reduced daily activities (P <0.001), reduced light exposure time (P <0.001) and more medical interruption for hip-fracture patients. There were also slight more comorbidity number and perioperative complications for patients in group A compared with patients in group B. For those with a pre-hospital time more than 24 h, 58.33% feared go out for medical treatment because of the COVID-19 epidemic.Conclusion During the COVID-19 epidemic period, the prevention and management of hip-fracture for the elderly require more attention for the public and medical care personnel.
Cocoa-flavanols enhance moderate-intensity pulmonary V̇O2 kinetics but not exercise tolerance in sedentary middle-aged adults: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sadler Daniel , Draijer Richard , Stewart Claire E. , Jones Helen , Marwood Simon , Thijssen Dick H. J.
Published: June 2020

Background: Cocoa flavanols (CF) may exert health benefits through their potent vasodilatory effects which are perpetuated by elevations in nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. These vasodilatory effects may contribute to improved delivery of blood and oxygen to exercising muscle.Objective: Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine how CF supplementation impacts pulmonary oxygen uptake (V̇O2) kinetics and exercise tolerance in sedentary middle-aged adults.Methods: We employed a double-blind cross-over, placebo-controlled design whereby 17 participants (11 male, 6 female; mean±SD, 45±6 years) randomly received either 7 days of daily CF (400 mg) or placebo (PL) supplementation. On day 7, participants completed a series of ‘step’ moderate- and severe-intensity exercise tests for the determination of oxygen uptake kinetics.Results: During moderate-intensity exercise, the time constant of the fundamental phase of V̇O2 kinetics (τV̇O2) was decreased by 15% in CF as compared to PL (mean±SD; PL: 40±12 vs. CF: 34±9 s, P=0.019), with no differences in the amplitude of V̇O2 (AV̇O2; PL: 0.77±0.32 vs. CF: 0.79±0.34 l min−1, P=0.263). However, during severe-intensity exercise, τV̇O2,the amplitude of the slow component (SCV̇O2) and exercise tolerance (PL: 435±58 vs. CF: 424±47 s, P=0.480) were unchanged between conditions.Conclusions: Our data show that acute CF supplementation enhanced oxygen uptake kinetics during moderate-, but not severe-intensity exercise in middle-aged participants. These novel effects of CFs, in this demographic, may contribute to improved tolerance of moderate-activity physical activities, which appear commonly present in daily life.Registered under ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier no. NCT04370353
Plasma microRNAs can be a potential diagnostic biomarker for endometriosis
Authors: Zhuo Zhihong , Wang Chuhan , Yu Huimin
Published: June 2020

BackgroundPlasma microRNAs are considered to be potential diagnostic biomarkers for endometriosis. Increasing evidence has shown that a huge amount of miRNAs are abnormally expressed in endometriosis plasma and play irreplaceable roles in diagnosis. MethodsThe aim of the our study was to identify the differential expression of circular miRNA by reviewing the PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane databases between normal women and women with endometriosis and analyzing the miRNA data downloaded from the GEO database.ResultsBecause of the differential miRNA expression in this review, we evaluated the diagnostic values of the differentially expressed miRNAs, particularly during the menstrual phases. According to the cut-off criteria with |log 2 FC|>1.0 and P < 0.05, 36 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified, including 13 upregulated miRNAs and 23 downregulated miRNAs. We developed miR-155, miR-574, miR-23a, and miR-520d via a Venn diagram. Functional enrichment analysis considered that the target miRNAs might be involved in various pathways related to endometriosis, including neurotrophin, Hippo, oocyte meiosis, ubiquitin mediated proteolysis, HTLV-Infection, FoxO, and Rap1 signaling pathways. CTNNB1, MYC, and ES R1 of transcription factors were related to the differentially expressed miRNAs.ConclusionsIn summary, our study suggested that a four-miRNA could be included as a prognostic marker in endometriosis.