bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Leukocyte Telomere Length in Patients with Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia
Authors: Nanthatanti Nithita , Tantiworawit Adisak , Piriyakhuntorn Pokpong , Rattanathammethee Thanawat , Hantrakool Sasinee , Chai-Adisaksopha Chatree , Rattarittamrong Eakarat , Norasetthada Lalita , Tuntiwechapikul Wirote , Fanhchaksai Kanda , Charoenkwan Pimlak , Kumfu Sirinart , Chattipakorn Nipon 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: Thalassemia is a hereditary hemolytic anemia with a severity ranging from mild, non-transfusion dependent to severe chronic anemia requiring lifelong transfusion. Transfusional iron overload is a major complication in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). Telomeres are sequences of nucleotides forming the end caps of chromosomes that act as a DNA repair system. Iron overload in thalassemia can cause increased oxidative stress which leads to cellular damage and senescence. This may result in telomere length shortening. The degree of telomere length shortening may reflect the severity of thalassemia. Methods: This research aimed to study the leukocyte telomere length in patients with TDT in comparison to non-thalassemic individuals and to identify the clinical and laboratory parameters that are associated with telomere length. We conducted a cross-sectional study in patients with TDT aged ³18 years. Leukocyte telomere length was measured by real-time quantitative PCR. Results: Sixty-five patients with TDT were enrolled onto the study. There were 37 female patients (54.4%). The median age was 27 (18-57) years, and mean pre-transfusion hemoglobin level was 7.1 (± 1.07) g/dL. The mean telomere to single copy gene (T/S) ratios of patients with TDT and the controls were 0.72±0.18 and 0.99±0.25, respectively (p <0.0001). There was a significant correlation between the T/S ratio and age (p = 0.0002), and hemoglobin level (p = 0.044). There was no correlation between telomere length and other factors. Conclusions: Our study showed that TDT patients had shorter leukocyte telomere length compared with controls. Leukocyte telomere shortening in TDT was an aging-dependent process and associated with lower hemoglobin level.
Spinal cord stimulation for chronic intractable trunk or limb pain: study protocol for a Chinese multicenter randomized withdrawal trial (CITRIP study)
Authors: Lu Yang , Mao Peng , Wang Guihuai , Tao Wei , Xiong Donglin , Ma Ke , Li Rongchun , Feng Dan , Duan Wanru , Li Shun , Fu Zhijian , Feng Zhiying , Jin Yi , Wan Li , Lu Yan , Fan Bifa , Wang James Jin , Li Luming 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background Although effective results of many studies support the use of spinal cord stimulation in the chronic pain patients, no randomized controlled trial has been undertaken in China to date. CITRIP is a multicenter, prospective, randomized, withdrawal study designed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of spinal cord stimulation plus remote programming management in patients with intractable trunk or limb pain. Method Participants will be recruited in approximately 10 centers across China. Eligible participants with intractable trunk or limb and an average Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score ≥ 5 will undergo spinal cord stimulation test. Participants with VAS score reduction ≥ 50% could move forward to receive implantation of an implanted pulse generator. In the withdrawal period at 3-months follow-up visit, participants randomized to the experimental group (EG) will undergo continuous stimulation while ceasing the stimulation in the control group (CG). The outcome assessment will occur at baseline and at 1, 3 (pre and post randomization) and 6 months. The primary outcome is the difference of maximal visual analog scale (VAS) score between EG and CG in the withdrawal period compared with baseline before the withdrawal period. Additional outcomes include VAS score change at 1, 3 and 6-month follow-ups, responder rate (VAS score improving by 50%), achievement rate of a desirable pain state (VAS score ≤ 4), awake times during sleep, Beck Depression Inventory for depression evaluation, short-form 36 for quality of life evaluation, drug usage, satisfaction rating of the device. Adverse events will be collected. The primary analysis will follow the intention-to-treat principle. Discussion The CITRIP study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a randomized withdrawal trial of spinal cord stimulation for patients with intractable trunk or limb pain.
Determinants of Long Acting Contraceptive Utilization Among HIV Positive Reproductive Age Women Attending Care at Art Clinics of Public Health Facilities in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2019. A Case Control Study
Authors: Yirsaw Betselot , Meskel Feleke G , Michael G-kiros G , Shitemaw Tewoderos 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: Long acting and permanent contraceptive methods by far are the most effective, very safe and convenient methods than short acting contraceptive methods. But in less developed countries, use of long acting reversible contraceptive or permanent methods (LARCs/PMs) is very low. Therefore the aim of this study was to identify determinants of long acting contraceptive method utilization among HIV positive reproductive age women. Methods: An institutional based case control study was conducted among random sample of 354 HIV positive reproductive age women (total of 97.8% response rate) at Anti-Retroviral Therapy clinics from February 20 to March 20, 2019. Case to control ratio was 1:2. A structured questionnaire and information recorded from ART card review were used to collect the data. Each variable was entered in Bivariate analysis with dependent variables and those variables with P-value of ≤ 0.25 were included in the Multivariate analysis. Significance was determined at the level of P-value <0.05 with 95% CI of AOR. Results: A total of 354 (33.3% cases and 66.7% controls) HIV positive reproductive age women were interviewed with response rate of 97.8%. The study revealed being in age group of 39 and above [AOR=0.17, 95% CI (0.06, 0.48)], being divorced/separated and widowed [AOR=0.05, 95% CI (0.003, 0.61)], having supportive opinion and strongly supportive opinion regarding family planning service availability in ART clinic [AOR= 5.01, 95% CI (1.79, 14.07)], [AOR= 7.81, 95% CI (2.54, 24.01)] and having no future fertility intention [AOR= 7.03, 95% CI (2.73, 18.06)] were statistically significant determinants for long acting contraceptive method utilization. Conclusion: Woman in age group of 39 and above, having no future fertility intention and being divorced/separated and widowed was found to be determinants of long acting contraceptive method utilization among HIV positive reproductive age women. In addition our study support the WHO Strategic Considerations for Strengthening the Linkages between Family Planning and HIV/AIDS Policies, Programs, and Services.
Weight management barriers and facilitators after breast cancer in Australian women: a national survey
Authors: Ee Carolyn , Cave Adele Elizabeth , Naidoo Dhevaksha , Bilinski Kellie , Boyages John 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Weight gain after breast cancer is associated with poorer health outcomes. The aim of this study was to describe how Australian breast cancer survivors are currently managing their weight. Methods: Online cross-sectional survey open to any woman living in Australia who self-identified as having breast cancer, between November 2017 and January 2018. Results: We received 309 responses. Most respondents described their diet as good/excellent and reported moderate-high levels of weight self-efficacy. Despite this, the proportion of overweight/obesity increased from 47% at time of diagnosis to 67% at time of survey. More than three quarters of respondents did not receive any advice on weight gain prevention at the time of diagnosis. 39% of women reported being less active after cancer diagnosis, and and few weight loss interventions were perceived to be effective. Facilitators were structured exercise programs, prescribed diets, and accountability to someone else, while commonly cited barriers were lack of motivation/willpower, fatigue, and difficulty maintaining weight. Women who cited fatigue as a barrier were almost twice as likely to be doing low levels of physical activity (PA) or no PA than women who did not cite fatigue as a barrier. Conclusions: We report high levels of concern about weight gain after BC and significant gaps in service provision around weight gain prevention and weight management. Women with BC should be provided with support for weight gain prevention in the early survivorship phase, which should include structured PA and dietary changes in combination with behavioural change and social support. Weight gain prevention or weight loss programs should address barriers such as fatigue. More research is required on the effectiveness of diet and exercise interventions in BC survivors, particularly with regard to weight gain prevention.
A Comparison of Cylindrical and Tapered Stem Designs in Femoral Revision Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Ye , Sun Jian-Ning , Hua Zi-Jian , Chen Xiang-Yang , Feng Shuo 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background Both cylindrical and tapered stems are commonly used in revision total hip arthroplasty, it is unclear whether the geometry of prosthesis stem has an effect on the patient's efficacy and prognosis. we assume the tapered stem is superior to the cylindrical stem for better clinical outcome. Methods A multicenter review of 120 femoral revisions with Paprosky I, II and III defects using cobalt cylindrical stem (54 hips) or titanium tapered stem (66 hips) was performed with an average follow-up of 6 years. Demographic data was comparable between groups. Results There were no significant group differences were found in surgery time, bleeding volume and the postoperative Harris Hip Score, the level of overall satisfaction, 8-year cumulative survival. However, intraoperative fractures in the tapered group (4.5%) occurred significantly less than in the cylindrical group (14.8%), and stem subsidence was significantly less in the tapered group (2.17mm) than in the cylindrical group (4.17 mm). There was a higher ratio of bone repair and lower bone loss in the tapered group compared to the cylindrical group. The postoperative thigh pain rate was higher in the cylindrical group (12.9%) than in the tapered group (4.5%). Conclusion Both cylindrical stem and tapered stem can achieve satisfactory mid-term clinical results in revision THA; The tapered stem has better bone restoration of proximal femur, low incidence of intraoperative fracture, and low postoperative thigh pain rate compared with the cylindrical stem.
Self-Assessed Life Expectancy Among Older Adults In Côte D’ivoire
Authors: Moussa Richard K , Diaby Vakaramoko 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to estimate individuals’ expected longevity based on self-assessed survival probabilities and determine the predictors of such subjective life expectancy in a sample of elderly people (50 years and older) in Côte d’Ivoire.Methods Paper-based questionnaires were administered to a sample (n=267) of older adults residing in the city of Dabou, Côte d’Ivoire in May 2017. Information on subjective expectations regarding health, comorbidities, and self-assessed survival probabilities was collected. We estimated self-assessed life expectancy and its determinants using a two-pronged approach by: (i) estimating individuals’ life expectancy using the self-assessed survival probabilities (SSPs), and (ii) applying a finite mixture of regression models to form homogenous groups of individuals (clusters/components) and investigate the determinants. A spline-based approach was used to estimate the overall distribution of life expectancy for each individual using two to four points of self-assessed survival probabilities. A finite mixture of regression models was used to identify homogeneous groups of individuals (i.e. clusters/components) of the overall subjective life expectancy distribution of the study participants. Results The mean subjective life expectancy in older people varied according to four components/clusters. The average subjective life expectancy among the elderly was 79.51, 78.89, 80.02, and 77.79 years in the first, second, third, and fourth component of the subjects' overall subjective life expectancy, respectively. The effect of sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and lifestyle on subjective life expectancy varied across components. For instance, a U-shape relationship between household per capita income and subjective life expectancy was found for individuals classified into the third component, and an inverse U-shape relationship was found for individuals classified into the fourth component.Conclusions We extended the estimation of subjective life expectancy by accounting for heterogeneity in the distribution of the estimated subjective life expectancy. This approach improved the usual methods for estimating individual subjective life expectancies and may provide insight into the elderly’s perception of aging, which could be used to forecast the demand for health services and long-term care needs.
KIAA0101 and UbcH10 interact to regulate non-small cell lung cancer cell proliferation by disrupting the function of the spindle assembly checkpoint
Authors: Lei Han , Wang Kun , Jiang Tongying , Lu Jingjing , Dong Xue , Wang Feilong , Li Qiang , Zhao Liming 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background Chromosome mis-segregation caused by spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) dysfunction during mitosis is an important pathogenic factor in cancer, and modulating SAC function has emerged as a potential novel therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). UbcH10 is considered to be associated with SAC function and the pathological types and clinical grades of NSCLC. KIAA0101, which contains a highly conserved proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-binding motif that is involved in DNA repair in cancer cells, plays an important role in the regulation of SAC function in NSCLC cells, and bioinformatics predictions showed that this regulatory role is related to UbcH10. We hypothesized KIAA0101 and UbcH10 interact to mediate SAC dysfunction and neoplastic transformation during the development of USCLC. Methods NSCLC cell lines were used to investigate the spatial-temporal correlation between UbcH10 and KIAA0101 expression and the downstream effects of modulating their expression were evaluated. Further immunoprecipitation assays were used to investigate the possible mechanism underlying the correlation between UbcH10 and KIAA0101. Eventually, the effect of modulating UbcH10 and KIAA010 on tumor growth and its possible mechanisms were explored through in vivo tumor-bearing models. Results In this study, we demonstrated that both UbcH10 and KIAA0101 were upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells and that their expression levels were correlated in a spatial and temporal manner. Importantly, UbcH10 and KIAA0101 coordinated to mediate the premature degradation of various SAC components to cause further SAC dysfunction and neoplastic proliferation. Moreover, tumor growth in vivo was significantly inhibited by silencing UbcH10 and KIAA0101 expression. Conclusions KIAA0101 and UbcH10 interact to cause SAC dysfunction, chromosomal instability and malignant proliferation in NSCLC, suggesting that UbcH10 and KIAA0101 are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of NSCLC by ameliorating SAC function.
Assessing Accuracy and Precision of 3D Augmented Reality Holographic models derived from DICOM data
Authors: Uribe Jesus , Vu Lan , Laguna Benjamin , Courtier Jesse 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Objective: Assess accuracy and precision of measurements on 3D Augmented reality (AR) models derived from CT DICOM data, and compare AR model measurements with PACS measurements. Materials/Methods: 5 individual 3D hologram models were produced using a CT phantom with fiducial markers set at varying distances. DICOM files were translated into 3D AR models using open source software. AR models were adapted for display on an AR device using a novel application. AR models were projected and distances between the projected fiducial markers were measured. Finally, 5 measurements each were obtained of the holographic projected distances between fiducials in the x1, y1, and z1 labeled planes respectively for precision assessment. Mann-Whitney U test was performed to compare measured distances on AGFA-PACS, AR models, and actual measured distances on phantom models. Results: No significant difference was found between gold standard measurements and either PACS measurements (p=0.9124) or AR measurements (p=0.8966). AR model measurements had a standard error of 0.24mm, 0.24mm, and 0.38mm in the x,y, and z planes respectively. Furthermore, measurements on AR models demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in comparison to gold standard measurements. Conclusion: Current AR technology is can produce reliable 3D AR models from CT DICOM data
EBV-positive intravascular large B-cell lymphoma of the liver: a case report and literature review
Authors: Li Qingjiao , Li Jinghe , Yang Keda , Peng Ying , Xiang Yao , Sun Shuyuan , Zeng Jian , Zhang Xin , Wang Junpu 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is an extremely rare subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma that most commonly involves the central nervous system, skin, and bone marrow. To our knowledge, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive IVLBCL in the liver has never been reported in the literature. Case presentation We report a case of a 65-year-old Chinese man with complaint of fever for 18 days. No obvious abnormality was found by physical examination. Laboratory findings were notable for anemia, thrombocytopenia, and elevated level of serum lactate dehydrogenase. Bone marrow on smear, biopsy, and flow cytometry revealed no lymphoma. Imaging studies showed a slightly lower density lesion in the liver with high fluorodeoxyglucose uptake and hepatosplenomegaly. Percutaneous liver biopsy revealed clustering of large atypical lymphocytes within the hepatic sinusoids. Immunohistochemically, these lymphoma cells were positive for CD20, PAX-5, MUM-1, BCL-6 and CD5, but negative for CD3 and CD10. Besides, Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNA was detected in tumor cells by in situ hybridization. BCL-2 , BCL-6 and MYC genes were intact tested by fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis. The patient was diagnosed as IVLBCL and died after 1 month of hospitalization without receiving immunochemotherapy. Conclusions IVLBCL of the liver is a highly rare lymphoma with nonspecific manifestations and dismal prognosis. Full recognition of its clinicopathological features will help to better diagnose this disease.
Professional advice for primary healthcare workers in Ethiopia: a social network analysis
Authors: Sabot Kate , Blanchet Karl , Berhanu Della , Spicer Neil , Schellenberg Joanna 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: In an era of increasingly competitive funding, governments and donors will be looking for creative ways to extend and maximise resources. One such means can include building upon professional advice networks to more efficiently introduce, scale up, or change programmes and healthcare provider practices. This cross-sectional, mixed-methods, observational study compared professional advice networks of healthcare workers in eight primary healthcare units across four regions of Ethiopia. Primary healthcare units include a health centre and typically five satellite health posts.Methods: 160 staff at eight primary healthcare units were interviewed using a structured tool. Quantitative data captured the frequency of healthcare worker advice seeking and giving on providing antenatal, childbirth, postnatal and newborn care. Network and actor-level metrics were calculated including density (ratio of ties between actors to all possible ties), centrality (number of ties incident to an actor), distance (average number of steps between actors) and size (number of actors within the network). Following quantitative network analyses, 20 qualitative interviews were conducted with network study participants from four primary healthcare units. Qualitative interviews aimed to interpret and explain network properties observed. Data were entered, analysed or visualised using Excel 6.0, UCINET 6.0, Netdraw, Adobe InDesign and MaxQDA10 software packages.Results: The following average network level metrics were observed: density .26 (SD.11), degree centrality .45 (SD.08), distance 1.94 (SD.26), number of ties 95.63 (SD 35.46), size of network 20.25 (SD 3.65). Advice networks for antenatal or maternity care were more utilised than advice networks for post-natal or newborn care. Advice networks were typically limited to primary healthcare unit staff, but not necessarily to supervisors. In seeking advice, a colleague’s level of training and knowledge were valued over experience. Advice exchange primarily took place in person or over the phone rather than over email or online fora. There were few barriers to seeking advice.Conclusion: Informal, inter-and intra-cadre advice networks existed. Fellow primary healthcare unit staff were preferred, particularly midwives, but networks were not limited to the primary healthcare unit. Additional research is needed to associate network properties with outcomes and pilot network interventions with central actors.
Biofilm formation on three different endotracheal tubes: a prospective clinical trial
Authors: Thorarinsdottir Hulda Rosa , Kander Thomas , Holmberg Anna , Petronis Sarunas , Klarin Bengt 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: Biofilm formation on endotracheal tubes (ETTs) is an early and frequent event in mechanically ventilated patients. The biofilm is believed to act as a reservoir for infecting microorganisms and thereby contribute to development and relapses of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Once a biofilm has formed on an ETT surface, it is difficult to eradicate. This clinical study aimed to compare biofilm formation on three widely used ETTs with different surface properties and to explore factors potentially predictive of biofilm formation.Methods: We compared the grade of biofilm formation on ETTs made of uncoated polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone-coated PVC, and PVC coated with noble metals after > 24 hours of mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients. The comparison was based on scanning electron microscopy of ETT surfaces, biofilm grading, surveillance and biofilm cultures, and occurrence of VAP.Results: High-grade (score ≥ 7) biofilm formation on the ETTs was associated with development of VAP (OR 4.17 [95% CI 1.14–15.3], p = 0.031). Compared to uncoated PVC ETTs, the silicone-coated and noble-metal-coated PVC ETTs were independently associated with reduced high-grade biofilm formation (OR 0.18 [95% CI 0.06–0.59], p = 0.005, and OR 0.34 [95% CI 0.13–0.93], p = 0.036, respectively). No significant difference was observed between silicon-coated ETTs and noble-metal-coated ETTs (OR 0.54 [95% CI 0.17–1.65], p = 0.278). In 60% of the oropharyngeal cultures and 58% of the endotracheal cultures collected at intubation, the same microorganism was found in the ETT biofilm at extubation. In patients who developed VAP, the causative microbe remained in the biofilm in 56% of cases, despite appropriate antibiotic therapy. High-grade biofilm formation on ETTs was not predicted by either colonization with common VAP pathogens in surveillance cultures or duration of invasive ventilation.Conclusion: High-grade biofilm formation on ETTs was associated with development of VAP. Compared to the uncoated PVC ETTs, the silicone-coated and noble-metal-coated PVC ETTs were independently associated with reduced high-grade biofilm formation. Further research on methods to prevent, monitor, and manage biofilm occurrence is needed.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02284438. Retrospectively registered on 21 October 2014, URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02284438.