bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Supplementing a skimmed milk–egg yolk‐based extender with L‐carnitine helps maintain the motility, membrane integrity and fertilizing capacity of chilled ram sperm
Authors: Galarza Diego A. , López‐Sebastián Antonio , Santiago‐Moreno Julián 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThis study examines the effect of L‐carnitine (LC) on chilled ram semen stored for up to 96 hr. Semen samples were collected, placed in a skimmed milk + 6% egg yolk extender, pooled, aliquoted and diluted with the same extender supplemented with different LC concentration: 0 (control), 1 mM (LC1), 2.5 mM (LC2.5), 5 mM (LC5), 7.5 mM (LC7.5) or10 mM (LC10). Sperm kinetics and membranes (plasma, acrosome and mitochondrial) were examined using the CASA system and triple fluorescence staining (PI/ PNA‐FITC/Mitotracker). The progressive motility was greater (p < .05) with LC7.5 treatment than the control sperm at 96 hr. The curvilinear velocity (p < .01) and the percentage of sperm with intact membranes (plasma/acrosome/mitochondria) (p < .01) were greater with all LC treatments than the control group at all times. Straight line velocity was greater (p < .01) with LC5 and LC7.5 treatments than the control group after 48 hr. The LC5 group also returned lower ALH values (p < .05) than these seen for the control groups after 48 hr. The fertilizing capacity of LC5 samples stored at 15°C for 2 hr (LC5‐15°C‐2h) and at 5°C for 24 hr (LC5‐5°C‐24h) was tested in three ewe groups via cervical fixed‐time artificial insemination. In two groups, the fertilizing capacity of the LC5‐5°C‐24h was reduced (p < .001). In the remaining group, however, no significant difference was seen between the LC5‐15°C‐2h and LC5‐5°C‐24h sperm in this respect (pregnancy rates 52.4% versus 42.8%; p > .05). Overall, the present results suggest that supplementing skimmed milk–egg yolk‐based extenders with LC has a positive effect on chilled sperm variables and fertilizing capacity.
An unprecedented cluster of Australian bat lyssavirus in Pteropus conspicillatus indicates pre‐flight flying fox pups are at risk of mass infection
Authors: Barrett Janine , Höger Alison , Agnihotri Kalpana , Oakey Jane , Skerratt Lee F. , Field Hume E. , Meers Joanne , Smith Craig 
Published: April 2020

AbstractIn November 2017, two groups of P. conspicillatus pups from separate locations in Far North Queensland presented with neurological signs consistent with Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) infection. These pups (n = 11) died over an 11‐day period and were submitted to a government laboratory for testing where ABLV infection was confirmed. Over the next several weeks, additional ABLV cases in flying foxes in Queensland were also detected. Brain tissue from ABLV‐infected flying foxes during this period, as well as archived brain tissue, was selected for next‐generation sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the two groups of pups were each infected from single sources. They were likely exposed while in crèche at night as their dams foraged. This study identifies crèche‐age pups at a potentially heightened risk for mass ABLV infection.
Digital health interventions for chronic diseases: a scoping review of evaluation frameworks
Authors: Bashi Nazli , Fatehi Farhad , Mosadeghi-Nik Mahsa , Askari Marzieh S , Karunanithi Mohan 
Published: April 2020

BackgroundMonitoring and evaluations of digital health (DH) solutions for the management of chronic diseases are quite heterogeneous and evidences around evaluating frameworks are inconsistent. An evidenced-based framework is needed to inform the evaluation process and rationale of such interventions. We aimed to explore the nature, extent and components of existing DH frameworks for chronic diseases.MethodsThis review was conducted based on the five steps of Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review methodology. Out of 172 studies identified from, PubMed, Embase and Web of Science, 11 met our inclusion criteria. The reviewed studies developed DH frameworks for chronic diseases and published between 2010 and 2018.ResultsAccording to WHO guidelines for monitoring and evaluation of DH interventions, we identified seven Conceptual frameworks, two Results frameworks, one Logical framework and one Theory of change. The frameworks developed for providing interventions such as self-management, achieving personal goals and reducing relapse for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and severe mental health. A few studies reported evaluation of the frameworks using randomised clinical trials (n=3) and feasibility testing via Likert scale survey (n=2). A wide range of outcomes were reported including access to care, cost-effectiveness, behavioural outcomes, patient–provider communications, technology acceptance and user experience.ConclusionThere is a lack of evidence on the application of consistent DH frameworks. Future research should address the use of evidence-based frameworks into the research design, monitoring and evaluation process. This review explores the nature of DH frameworks for the management of chronic diseases and provides examples to guide monitoring and evaluation of interventions.
Ophthalmology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Safadi Khaled , Kruger Joshua M. , Chowers Itay , Solomon Abraham , Amer Radgonde , Aweidah Hamzah , Frenkel Shahar , Mechoulam Hadas , Anteby Irene , Ben Eli Hadas , Lavy Itay , Jaouni Tarek , Landau David , Tiosano Liran , Greifner Gabriel , Ofir Shay , Levi Vineberg Tamar , Levy Jaime 
Published: April 2020

ObjectiveTo present an established practice protocol for safe and effective hospital-setting ophthalmic practice during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.Methods and AnalysisLiterature was reviewed to identify articles relevant to COVID-19 pandemic and ophthalmology. The following keywords were used: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 and telemedicine, combined with eye, ophthalmology, conjunctivitis and tears. Data were extracted from the identified manuscripts and discussed among subspecialists to obtain consensus evidence-based practice.ResultsA protocol for ophthalmic practice in the era of COVID-19 pandemic was established. The protocol covered patient screening, clinic flow, required personal protective equipment and modifications of ophthalmic equipment for improved safety.ConclusionImportant literature emerged with respect to the practice of ophthalmology in the era of COVID-19. An evidence-based ophthalmic practice protocol was established and should be modified in the future to accommodate new insights on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Validity of mild TBI risk score to predict intracranial hemorrhage in cases of mild traumatic brain injury in Thailand
Authors: Aramvanitch Kasamon , Yuksen Chaiyaporn , Jenpanitpong Chetsadakon , Nuanprom Promphet , Phootothum Yuranan , Phontabtim Malivan , Watcharakitpaisan Sorawich 
Published: April 2020

BackgroundPatients with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) will receive a brain CT scan based on risk of injury. A previous study established a scoring system for patients with mild TBI that assigned <3 points for the low-risk group, 3–6 points for the moderate-risk group, and ≥6 points for the high-risk group. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the external validity of mild TBI risk scores for predicting intracranial hemorrhage in patients with mild TBI who had been transferred to receive a brain CT scan at the 10 nationwide CT scan–capable facilities in Thailand.MethodsThe study was a retrospective cross-sectional review of patients with mild TBI who received a brain CT scan in 10 nationwide hospitals of Thailand. Risk factors were observed and points calculated for predicting mild TBI scores based on patient records. Injured patients were divided into two groups: CT scans indicating normal and abnormal brain images. After this, the accuracy of mild TBI score for predicting the presence of intracranial hemorrhage was investigated.ResultsThe study included a total of 999 patients, comprising 461 (46.15%) patients with abnormal brain CT scans indicating intracranial hemorrhage and 538 (53.85%) indicating no intracranial hemorrhage. In the low-risk group (mild TBI risk score <3), moderate-risk group (mild TBI risk score 3–6), and high-risk group (mild TBI risk score >6), the likelihood ratio positive of brain CT scans were 0.41, 3.53, and 77.3, respectively.DiscussionMild TBI risk score may assist healthcare providers to select patients with mild TBI for brain CT scan referral, particularly in hospitals without CT scan facilities. In such cases, based on the proposed scoring system, immediate transfer of moderate-risk and high-risk patients with mild TBI to a CT scan–capable facility is necessary.
ZNF143-Mediated H3K9 Trimethylation Upregulates CDC6 by Activating MDIG in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Lili , Huo Qi , Ge Chao , Zhao Fangyu , Zhou Qingqing , Chen Xiaoxia , Tian Hua , Chen Taoyang , Xie Haiyang , Cui Ying , Yao Ming , Li Hong , Li Jinjun 
Published: April 2020

AbstractZinc finger protein 143 (ZNF143) belongs to the zinc finger protein family and possesses transcription factor activity by binding sequence-specific DNA. The exact biological role of ZNF143 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been investigated. Here we report that ZNF143 is overexpressed in HCC tissues and its overexpression correlates with poor prognosis. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments showed that ZNF143 promoted HCC cell proliferation, colony formation, and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. ZNF143 accelerated HCC cell-cycle progression by activating cell division cycle 6 (CDC6). Mechanistically, ZNF143 promoted expression of CDC6 by directly activating transcription of histone demethylase mineral dust–induced gene (MDIG), which in turn reduced H3K9me3 enrichment in the CDC6 promoter region. Consistently, ZNF143 expression correlated significantly with MDIG and CDC6 expression in HCC. Collectively, we propose a model for a ZNF143–MDIG–CDC6 oncoprotein axis that provides novel insight into ZNF143, which may serve as a therapeutic target in HCC.Significance:These findings describe the mechanism by which ZNF143 promotes HCC proliferation and provide important clues for exploring new targets and strategies for clinical treatment of human liver cancer.
Myeloid Cell–Derived TGFβ Signaling Regulates ECM Deposition in Mammary Carcinoma via Adenosine-Dependent Mechanisms
Authors: Vasiukov Georgii , Novitskaya Tatiana , Zijlstra Andries , Owens Philip , Ye Fei , Zhao Zhiguo , Moses Harold L. , Blackwell Timothy , Feoktistov Igor , Novitskiy Sergey V. 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

TGFβ plays a crucial role in the tumor microenvironment by regulating cell–cell and cell–stroma interactions. We previously demonstrated that TGFβ signaling on myeloid cells regulates expression of CD73, a key enzyme for production of adenosine, a protumorigenic metabolite implicated in regulation of tumor cell behaviors, immune response, and angiogenesis. Here, using an MMTV-PyMT mouse mammary tumor model, we discovered that deletion of TGFβ signaling on myeloid cells (PyMT/TGFβRIILysM) affects extracellular matrix (ECM) formation in tumor tissue, specifically increasing collagen and decreasing fibronectin deposition. These changes were associated with mitigated tumor growth and reduced metastases. Reduced TGFβ signaling on fibroblasts was associated with their proximity to CD73+ myeloid cells in tumor tissue. Consistent with these findings, adenosine significantly downregulated TGFβ signaling on fibroblasts, an effect regulated by A2A and A2B adenosine receptors. METABRIC dataset analysis revealed that patients with triple-negative breast cancer and basal type harbored a similar signature of adenosine and ECM profiles; high expression of A2B adenosine receptors correlated with decreased expression of Col1 and was associated with poor outcome. Taken together, our studies reveal a new role for TGFβ signaling on myeloid cells in tumorigenesis. This discovered cross-talk between TGFβ/CD73 on myeloid cells and TGFβ signaling on fibroblasts can contribute to ECM remodeling and protumorigenic actions of cancer-associated fibroblasts.

Significance:
TGFβ signaling on fibroblasts is decreased in breast cancer, correlates with poor prognosis, and appears to be driven by adenosine that accelerates tumor progression and metastasis via ECM remodeling.
Characterization of BAY 1905254, an Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Targeting the Immunoglobulin-Like Domain Containing Receptor 2 (ILDR2)
Authors: Huetter Julia , Gritzan Uwe , Gutcher Ilona , Doecke Wolf-Dietrich , Luetke-Eversloh Merlin V. , Golfier Sven , Roider Helge G. , Frisk Anna-Lena , Hunter John , Pow Andrew , Drake Andrew , Levine Zurit , Levy Ofer , Azulay Meir , Barbiro Inbal , Cojocaru Gady , Vaknin Ilan , Kreft Bertolt , Roese Lars 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The immunoglobulin-like domain containing receptor 2 (ILDR2), a type I transmembrane protein belonging to the B7 family of immunomodulatory receptors, has been described to induce an immunosuppressive effect on T-cell responses. Besides its expression in several nonlymphoid tissue types, we found that ILDR2 was also expressed in fibroblastic reticular cells (FRC) in the stromal part of the lymph node. These immunoregulatory cells were located in the T-cell zone and were essential for the recruitment of naïve T cells and activated dendritic cells to the lymph nodes. Previously, it has been shown that an ILDR2-Fc fusion protein exhibits immunomodulatory effects in several models of autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and type I diabetes. Herein, we report the generation and characterization of a human/mouse/monkey cross-reactive anti-ILDR2 hIgG2 antibody, BAY 1905254, developed to block the immunosuppressive activity of ILDR2 for cancer immunotherapy. BAY 1905254 was shown to promote T-cell activation in vitro and enhance antigen-specific T-cell proliferation and cytotoxicity in vivo in mice. BAY 1905254 also showed potent efficacy in various syngeneic mouse cancer models, and the efficacy was found to correlate with increasing mutational load in the cancer models used. Additive or even synergistic antitumor effects were observed when BAY 1905254 was administered in combination with anti–PD-L1, an immunogenic cell death–inducing chemotherapeutic, or with tumor antigen immunization. Taken together, our data showed that BAY 1905254 is a potential drug candidate for cancer immunotherapy, supporting its further evaluation.
Optimal Estimation of Stochastic Energy Balance Model Parameters
Authors: Cummins Donald P. , Stephenson David B. , Stott Peter A. 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThis study has developed a rigorous and efficient maximum likelihood method for estimating the parameters in stochastic energy balance models (with any k > 0 number of boxes) given time series of surface temperature and top-of-the-atmosphere net downward radiative flux. The method works by finding a state-space representation of the linear dynamic system and evaluating the likelihood recursively via the Kalman filter. Confidence intervals for estimated parameters are straightforward to construct in the maximum likelihood framework, and information criteria may be used to choose an optimal number of boxes for parsimonious k-box emulation of atmosphere–ocean general circulation models (AOGCMs). In addition to estimating model parameters the method enables hidden state estimation for the unobservable boxes corresponding to the deep ocean, and also enables noise filtering for observations of surface temperature. The feasibility, reliability, and performance of the proposed method are demonstrated in a simulation study. To obtain a set of optimal k-box emulators, models are fitted to the 4 × CO2 step responses of 16 AOGCMs in CMIP5. It is found that for all 16 AOGCMs three boxes are required for optimal k-box emulation. The number of boxes k is found to influence, sometimes strongly, the impulse responses of the fitted models.
Clinical application of a new ternary polymer, SEC-1 coat™, for pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass circuits: a prospective randomized pilot study
Authors: Hasegawa Tomomi , Oshima Yoshihiro , Yokoyama Shinji , Akimoto Asuka , Misaka Yusuke , Akiyama Shota 
Published: April 2020

Objective: The use of biocompatible materials to reduce the systemic activation of inflammation and coagulation pathways is expanding rapidly. However, there have been few clinical studies of biocompatible circuits for pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass. This pilot study aimed to preliminarily evaluate the biocompatibility of SEC-1 coat™ (SEC) for cardiopulmonary bypass circuits in pediatric cardiac surgery. Methods: Twenty infants undergoing cardiac surgery for isolated ventricular septal defects at Kobe Children’s Hospital were assigned randomly to an SEC-coated (SEC group, n = 10) or heparin-coated (control group, n = 10) circuit. Perioperative data and the following markers were prospectively analyzed: platelet counts and interleukin-6, interleukin-8, C3a, β-thromboglobulin, and thrombin–antithrombin complex levels. Results: Neither patient characteristics nor postoperative clinical outcomes differed significantly between the SEC and control groups. Platelet counts markedly decreased during cardiopulmonary bypass in both groups, but were significantly better preserved in the SEC group. Fewer patients needed postoperative platelet transfusions in the SEC group. After cardiopulmonary bypass termination, serum levels of β-thromboglobulin and thrombin–antithrombin complex were significantly lower in the SEC than in the control group. Although the differences were not statistically significant, serum levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and C3a had a tendency toward being lower in the SEC group, with good preservation of leukocyte counts, fibrinogen, and antithrombin III. Conclusion: SEC-1 coat™ for cardiopulmonary bypass circuits have good biocompatibility with regard to platelet preservation and in terms of attenuating inflammatory reaction or coagulation activation during pediatric cardiac surgery. It can be beneficial in pediatric as well as adult cardiac surgery.
Aggressive placement of distal limb perfusion catheter in venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Ohira Suguru , Kawamura Masashi , Ahern Kristin , Cavarocchi Nicholas , Hirose Hitoshi 
Published: April 2020

Objective: The aim of this study is to review the impacts of aggressive placement of a distal perfusion catheter on the outcomes in patients supported with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation via femoral cannulation. Methods: Analysis was performed with 143 consecutive femoral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation. Patients were divided into two groups: the early period (October 2010 to December 2012, N = 47) where placement of a distal perfusion catheter was attempted percutaneously but not surgically and the late period (January 2013 to November 2018, N = 96) in which placement of distal perfusion catheter was aggressively utilized both percutaneously and surgically. The modification of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation protocol for the late period involved (1) an immediate insertion of a distal perfusion catheter regardless of the size of femoral arterial cannula, (2) an open insertion of a distal perfusion catheter if percutaneous approach failed, and (3) when venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation was completed at a non-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation center, it was encouraged that they attempt insertion of a distal perfusion catheter at the time of cannulation. Results: In the late period, a distal perfusion catheter was placed in 96% (92/96) which was significantly increased from 66% (31/47) in the early period. Of these 92 patients in late period, nine patients (9.8%) required open direct insertion of a distal perfusion catheter. The incidence of lower limb ischemia (early vs. late period 26% vs 12%, P = 0.031) was significantly decreased in the late period. Logistic regression analyses showed that distal perfusion catheter placement was the only factor for preventing lower limb ischemia. Conclusion: Aggressive insertion of a distal perfusion catheter even utilizing surgical cut-down technique was shown to decrease the incidence of distal limb complications.
Cerebrovascular disease is associated with an increased disease severity in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A pooled analysis of published literature
Authors: Aggarwal Gaurav , Lippi Giuseppe , Michael Henry Brandon 
Published: April 2020

Introduction There is an urgent need to identify patients at high risk during the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Whether a history of stroke is associated with increased severity of disease or mortality is unknown. Method We pooled studies from published literature to assess the association of a history of stroke with outcomes in patients with COVID-19. Results A pooled analysis of 4 studies showed a ∼2.5-fold increase in odds of severe COVID-19. While a trend was observed, there was no statistically significant association of stroke with mortality in patients with COVID-19 infection. Discussion Our findings are limited by a small number of studies and sample size. Conclusion There is a ∼2.5-fold increase in odds of severe COVID-19 illness with a history of cerebrovascular disease.
Living with a chronic disease: A quantitative study of the views of patients with a chronic disease on the change in their life situation
Authors: Benkel Inger , Arnby Maria , Molander Ulla 
Published: April 2020

Objectives: Chronic diseases have an impact on and change patient’s lives which means that they need to find ways to cope with the new situation. The aim was to describe how the chronic disease has influenced patients’ views of their life situation. Methods: The study was quantitative in design with data collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to compare similarities and differences between patients with asthma-allergy, diabetes mellitus, cancer and inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis. Results: Changes in their life were experienced as a negative outcome for the majority of participants. Support can be in the form of interpersonal support from various persons, but also from activities and beliefs/religion. Family and friends as well as healthcare professionals were identified as being most supportive. Sadness and worry were the most common emotions among the participants and their surrounding networks. Conclusion: People with a chronic disease have to live with the consequences the disease has for their life situation. They need to find strategies to cope with the negative outcome in their new life. Support from their own network and healthcare professionals can be helpful in the new life situation.