bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Delivery Health Service Satisfaction of Mothers and Fear of COVID-19: Implications for Maternal and Child Health in Pakistan
Authors: Jafree Sara Rizvi , Momina Ain ul , Muazzam Amina , Wajid Rabia , Calib Gloria 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
High maternal and neonatal mortality rates in developing regions like Pakistan are linked to low rates of institutional deliveries. One way to improve rates of institutional deliveries is through improving institutional delivery service satisfaction in mothers. The aim of this research is to identify which factors influence delivery service satisfaction in mothers during the era of COVID-19 and to identify socio-demographic characteristics of mothers associated with greater fear of catching COVID-19 during institutional deliveries. A total of 190 women who had delivered a baby between May 2020 and June 2020 were sampled from two private and two public hospitals of Lahore which gave permission for data collection. Results reveal that majority women at 74.7% are afraid of contracting COVID-19, specifically women: delivering at public hospitals, who are illiterate or semi-literate, with more than 4 children, with low household income, and who are unemployed. Four multiple regression models were used to identify factors related to higher satisfaction in delivery services, including: (i) pre-delivery care (explanatory power of R2 = 0.651), (ii) during delivery care (R2 = 0.716), (iii) after delivery care for mother (R2 = 0.525), and (iv) after delivery care for newborn (R2 = 0.780). Based on our findings we recommend improved regulation of delivery services, especially at public hospitals, increased protection for disadvantaged women groups, and improved service quality by healthcare providers.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Cardiac Surgery in Israel
Authors: Keizman Eitan , Ram Eilon , Kachel Erez , Sternik Leonid , Raanani Ehud 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Ever since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a pandemic, worldwide efforts are being made to “flatten the curve”. Israel was amongst the first countries to impose significant restrictions. As a result, cardiac surgeons have been required to scale down their routine practice, resulting in a significant reduction in the number of cardiac surgeries. The aim of this study is to characterize the impact of COVID-19 on cardiac surgery in Israel. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study performed in two cardiac surgery departments in Israel and includes all patients who underwent cardiac surgery in March and April during the years 2019 and 2020. The patient cohort was divided into two groups based on the year of operation. Analysis of the patients’ baseline characteristics, operative data, and postoperative outcome, was performed. Results: The 2019 group (n=173), and the 2020 group (n=108) were similar regarding their baseline characteristics, previous medical history, and rates of previous revascularization interventions. However, compared to the 2019 group, patients in the 2020 group were found to be more symptomatic (NYHA class IV; 2.4% vs. 6.2%, p=0.007). While all patients underwent similar procedures, patients in the 2020 group had significantly longer procedural time (p<0.001). In-hospital mortality rate was found to be significantly higher in group 2020 (13% vs. 5.2%, p=0.037). Conclusions: While the number of patients undergoing cardiac surgery declined during the outbreak period, the rate of surgical mortality increased. One explanation for this might be delayed hospital arrival.
Aeromonas Hydrophila Infection Activates Death Receptor Apoptosis Pathway in the RBCs of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)
Authors: Lu Zhijie , Yang Minxuan , Zhang Kai , Zhan Fanbin , Li Fenglin , Shi Fei , Li Yanan , Zhao Lijuan , Li Jun , Lin Li , Qin Zhendong 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Fish blood contains RBCs (Red blood cells) as the major cells. Unlike the absence of nucleus in mammalian RBC, fish RBC contains a nucleus. Previous researches have indicated that fish RBCs have a significant function in immune responses. However, the mechanism underlying the immune responses against bacterial infection of teleost RBCs remains enigmatic. To decipher the mechanisms, after the infection of A. hydrophila, transcriptomic profiling of grass carp RBCs was analyzed. Results: Outcomes demonstrated that there were 2144 altogether DEGs (Differently Expressed Genes) between the A. hydrophila non-disease groups, which includes 817 up-regulated and 1327 down-regulated DEGs. Differently Expressed Genes were allocated to 45 GO terms, including 20 natural procedure terms, 14 cell related element, and 11 terms related to molecular functions. Likewise, the expression levels of cytokines by Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction showed that they (e.g. CCL4, CCL11, CCL20, IL-4, IL-12, and IFNα) were significantly increased after A. hydrophila infection, which was identical to the expression patterns of transcriptomic data. The infection could cause the apoptosis of RBCs which was confirmed by annexin V/PI assay. To further elucidate the apoptosis pathway, the expression levels of genes by mRNA included in cellular apoptosis were monitored. The outcomes indicated that the expressions of mRNA of p53, Fas, Leucine-rich repeats, death domain-containing (LRDD) and caspase 8 were all significantly increased, respectively. Conclusions: Our results support the notion that A. hydrophila infection could activate Fas-related death receptor apoptosis pathway in grass carp RBCs, which will reveal another insight on the mechanisms underlying the antibacterial immunity of teleost fish RBCs.
Increasing levels of Parasutterella in the gut microbiome correlate with improving Low-Density Lipoprotein levels in healthy adults consuming resistant potato starch during a randomised trial
Authors: Bush Jason Russell , Alfa Michelle J 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Prebiotics, defined as a substrate that is selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit, present a potential option to optimize gut microbiome health. Elucidating the relationship between specific intestinal bacteria, prebiotic intake, and the health of the host remains a primary microbiome research goal.
Objective
To assess the correlations between gut microbiota, serum health parameters, and prebiotic consumption in healthy adults.
Methods
We performed ad hoc exploratory analysis of changes in abundance of genera in the gut microbiome of 75 participants from a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial that evaluated the effects of resistant potato starch (RPS; MSPrebiotic®, N = 38) intervention versus a fully digestible placebo (N = 37) for which primary and secondary outcomes have previously been published. Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify relationships between health parameters (ie. blood glucose and lipids) and populations of gut bacteria.
Results
Abundance of Parasutterella (phylum Proteobacteria) tended to increase in the gut microbiome of individuals consuming RPS and those increases in Parasutterella were correlated with reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in participants consuming RPS but not placebo. Segregating RPS-consuming individuals whose LDL levels decreased (ie “Responders”) from those who did not (ie. “Non-Responders”) revealed that LDL Responders had significantly higher levels of Parasutterella both at baseline and after 12 weeks of consuming RPS.
Conclusion
Our analyses suggest that RPS may help improve LDL levels depending upon the levels of Parasutterella in an individual’s gut microbiome.
Trial Registration:
This study protocol was reviewed and approved by Health Canada (Submission #188517; “Notice of Authorization” dated 06/05/13) and registered as NCT01977183 (10/11/13) listed on NIH website: ClinicalTrials.gov. Data generated in this study have been submitted to NCBI (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/381931).
Integrated Analysis of Immune-Related Genes in Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yiru , Liu Yunduo , Guan Yue , Li Hao , Liu Yuan , Zhang Mengjun , Cui Ping , Kong Dan , Chen Xiuwei , Yin Hang 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background:Exploring novel and sensitive targets is urgent due to the high morbidity of endometrial cancer (EC). The purpose of our study was to explore the transcription factors and immune-related genes in EC and further identify immune-based lncRNA signature as biomarker for predicting survival prognosis.Methods:Transcription factors, aberrantly expressed immune-related genes and immune-related lncRNAs were explored through bioinformatics analysis. Cox regression and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis were conducted to identify the immune and overall survival (OS) related lncRNAs. The accuracy of model was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier method and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and the independent prognostic indicator was identified with Cox analysis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were conducted to detect the accuracy of our results.Results:A network of 29 transcription factors and 17 immune-related genes was constructed. Furthermore, four immune-prognosis-related lncRNAs were screened out. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and time-dependent ROC analysis revealed a satisfactory predictive potential of the 4-lncRNA model. Consistency was achieved among the results from the training set, testing set and entire cohort. The distributed patterns between the high- and low-risk groups could be distinguished in principal component analysis. Comparisons of the risk score and clinical factors confirmed the four-lncRNA-based signature as an independent prognostic indicator. Last, the reliability of the results was verified by qRT-PCR in 29 cases of endometrial carcinoma.Conclusions:Overall, our study constructed a network of transcription factors and immune-related genes and explored a four immune-related lncRNA signature that could serve as a novel potential biomarker of EC.
Cold Atmospheric Plasma Selectively Induces G0/G1 Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in AR-Independent Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Ning Meng , Zhang Zhifa , Yu Lihui , Han Peiyu , Dai xiaofeng 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundAndrogen receptor-independent prostate cancers do not respond to androgen blockage therapies and suffer from high recurrence rate. We aim to contribute to the establishment of novel therapeutic approaches against such malignancies.Methods We examined whether and how cold atmospheric plasma delivers selectivity against AR-independent prostate cancers using human normal epithelial prostatic cells PNT1A and AR-negative DU145 prostate cancer cells.ResultsWe show that cold atmospheric plasma could selectively halt cell proliferation and migration in androgen receptor-independent cells as a result of induced cell apoptosis and G0/G1 stage cell cycle arrest, and such outcomes were achieved through modulations on the MAPK and NF-kB pathways in response to physical plasma induced intracellular redox level. ConclusionOur study reports cold atmospheric plasma induced reduction on the proliferation and migration of androgen receptor-independent prostate cancer cells that offers novel therapeutic insights on the treatment of such cancers, and provides the first evidence on physical plasma induced cell cycle G0/G1 stage arrest that warrants the exploration on the synergistic use of cold atmospheric plasma and drugs such as chemotherapies in eradicating such cancer cells.
The Study of EFL Learnersʹ Perception of Using E-learning and Self-Regulation in English classrooms: Teachers, intermediate and advanced learners′ attitude
Authors: Faridi Marzie 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
E-learning and self-regulation are kinds of autonomous learning. Some researchers have long been interested in E-learning and self-regulation. The purpose of this article is to study the EFL learnersʹ perception of using E-learning and self-regulation in English classrooms. A quantitative research method was used for 360 intermediate, advanced learners and 34 teachers. Cluster sampling and convenience sampling method in order used for EFL learners and the teachers. Data gathered for six weeks in Zanjan English language institutes. The questionnaires were about advantages and disadvantages of e-learning and participants' perception on self-regulation capabilities by Likert scale that gave to the learners and teachers. Between group and within group investigated for both groups of participants. In general the results show the learnersʹ positive attitude toward using self-regulation and advantages of E-learning in English classrooms. The results imply the learnersʹ autonomy in learning process, and the teachers can control it by learnersʹ attitude.
Development and Psychometric Properties of Sexual and Reproductive Health Literacy Instrument for Infertile Women (SRH-Life): A Mixed Method Study
Authors: Rakhshaee Zahra , Khakbazan Zohreh , Nedjat Saharnaz Nedjat Saharnaz , Maasoumi Raziyeh 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Promoting sexual- reproductive health literacy is one of the most important strategies for achieving the goals of sexual- reproductive health in different groups of women. Infertile women are one of the most vulnerable groups to the adverse effects of low levels of health literacy. Since no specific instrument exists for assessing the level of sexual- reproductive health literacy, therefore, this study aimed to develop and evaluate the psychometric characteristics of an instrument for measuring sexual and reproductive health literacy among infertile women ( Sexual and Reproductive Health Literacy instrument for infertile women: SRH-Life) .Methods: This was a mixed method study with exploratory design which conducted from July 2018 to Jan 2020 in northern Iran. Semi structured interviews with infertile women, literature review and, expert panel comments were utilized to generate an item pool. Then, the psychometric properties of the instrument, validity and reliability were assessed.Results: The initial instrument contained 78 items. Next, 10 experts evaluated content validity. Some items were removed and a provisional version of the instrument with 47 items was provided. Then, the face validity was performed by 10 infertile women. Finally, a random sample of 235 infertile women completed the instrument and construct validity were assessed. The exploratory factor analysis was performed, 35 items were loaded, which indicated a 4-factor solution for the instrument including reproductive health information (8 items), infertility and treatment information (9 items), sexual health information (8 items) and functional sexual- reproductive literacy (10 items) that jointly explained 55.3% of the variance observed. For reliability, internal consistency showed satisfactory results with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from 0.89 to 0.9. Intraclass correlation coefficient (test-retest analysis) showed acceptable stability for the instrument.Conclusion: The results showed that Sexual and Reproductive Health Literacy instrument for infertile women (SRH-Life) is a valid and reliable measure for assessing sexual and reproductive health literacy among women with infertility.
Controlled Study of Distress in Parents of Children with Epilepsy
Authors: Abdelnaem Mostafa , Hassan Maha Ali , Hafeez Mohamed Helmy Abdel 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundChildhood epilepsy can have a significant impact on family functioning with high rates of patent anxiety and depression being reported.ObjectivesTo demonstrate the frequency of depression, anxiety and distress among the parents of epileptic children.Patients and MethodsA cross sectional study design was carried out on 100 children and their parents attending the outpatient clinics in Minia University Hospital, arranged in two groups, Group (A) consisted of 50 epileptic children and their caregivers. On the other hand, Group (B) consisted of 50 age- and sex matched controls. Comprehensive Assessment was carried out. A well-prepared sheet had been used for the evaluation of subjects of the study. Twenty-one item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM - A) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) were used for interviewing the parents of the epileptic children to screen for depression, anxiety, stress in those parents. This process preceded by full explanation of all the previous tools.There was statistically significant difference between the parents of the epileptic group and the control group regarding DASS score, and HAM-A score. There was no statistically significance between the 2 groups regarding the HRSD. The parents group of generalized fits shows to have a higher score of DASS (9.5±4.7), HDRS (5.1±3.3). In contrast to the focal fits group. On the other hand, the parents of group of generalized fits shows to have lower score of HAM-A (6.7±4) in contrast to the focal fits group but not statistically significant.Compliant group shows to have higher score of HAM-A, HDRS score in contrast to non-compliant group. These correlations were not statistically significant.ConclusionsParents of the epileptic children had more anxiety, depression and stress than the control. Lower parental education was associated with more distress and anxiety.Ploy-therapy increased parent anxiety and depression. Compliance on treatment decreased parent distress but increased parent anxiety and depression.
Investigation of Total Polyphenol, Antioxidant Activity and Levels of Metals in Ethiopian Commercial Beers
Authors: Tefera Molla , Ayele Daniel 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Total polyphenol, antioxidant activity and heavy metal contents in selected Ethiopian beers (Dashen= B1, Harar = B2, Habesha= B3, Saint George= B4 and Walya= B5) were investigated. The average concentration of total phenolic content in B1, B2, B3, B4 and B5 were found to be 219.80, 206.09, 190.24, 193.00 and 212.10 mg GAE/L, respectively. The obtained results showed that B1 contained significantly highest total polyphenol content (219.80±2.83 mg/L) and showed the highest radical scavenging capacities (84.16±0.65). According to Pearson’s correlation between polyphenol extract with antioxidant activities, suggested that phenolic compound in beer were contributor to antioxidant activity. Similarly, all the beer samples were analyzed for Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni and Pb with ﬂame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The total metal concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu Ni and Pb were found to be in the range of (ND–0.022 mg/L), (0.02 -0.041), (0.023-0.054), (ND-0.064) and (ND-0.022 mg/L), respectively. The efficiency of the procedure was validated by spiking and the percent recovery of the metals varied from 90.9-104.3%.
Gentiopicroside promotes osteogenesis and prevents bone loss in ovariectomized mice by modulation of β-catenin-BMP2 signaling pathway
Authors: Jiang Huaji , Zhong Jialiang , Li Wenjun , Dong Jianghui , Xian Cory J , Shen Yung-Kang , Yao Lufeng , Wu Qiang , Wang Liping 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Osteoporosis is characterized by increased bone fragility and the drugs used at present to treat osteoporosis can cause adverse reactions. Gentiopicroside (GEN) is widely used in the traditional Chinese medicine thanks to its multiple pharmacological activities including the suppression of osteoclastogenesis. Therefore, the aim of this work was to explore the effect of GEN on bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) osteogenesis for a potential osteoporosis therapy.Methods: In vitro, BMSCs were exposed to GEN at different doses for 2 weeks, while in vivo, ovariectomized osteoporosis was established in mice and the therapeutic effect of GEN was evaluated for 3 months.Results: Our results in vitro showed that GEN promoted the activity of alkaline phosphatase, increased the calcified nodules in BMSCs and upregulated the osteogenic factors (Runx2, OSX, OCN, OPN, and BMP2). In vivo, GEN strengthened the secretion of Runx2, OCN, and BMP2, increased the level of osteogenic parameters, and accelerated the osteogenesis of BMSCs by activating the BMP pathway and Wnt/β-catenin pathway, effect that was inhibited using the BMP inhibitor Noggin and Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor DKK1. Silencing the β-catenin gene and BMP2 gene blocked the osteogenic differentiation induced by GEN in BMSCs. This block was also observed when only β-catenin was silenced, while the knockout of BMP2 did not affect β-catenin expression induced by GEN. Interpretation.Conclusions: GEN promotes BMSC osteogenesis by regulating β-catenin-BMP signalling, providing a novel strategy in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Short Term Outcomes of Gastric Cancer at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), Rwanda.
Authors: Niyongombwa Irénée , Karenzi Irénée David , Sibomana Isaie , Muvunyi Vital , Kagimbangabo Jean Marie Vianney , Urimubabo Jean Christian , Nifasha Antoine , Abahuje Egide 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Gastric cancer is the 4th most common cause of cancer death worldwide with an annual global incidence of 985,600; two thirds of them being in the developing countries. Gastric cancer is endemic in the so called stomach cancer region comprising Rwanda, Burundi, South Western Uganda and eastern Kivu province of Democratic Republic of Congo and its incidence in Rwanda is estimated around 13 to 15 per 100,000 population. To date, the outcomes of gastric cancer in the East African region are under investigated, and the survival rate in Rwanda is not known. The aim of this study was to describe the short term outcomes (in-hospital mortality rate, length of hospital stay, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months survival rates) in patients treated for gastric cancer at CHUK.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data collected from records of patients who consulted CHUK over a period of 10 years from September 2007 to August 2016. Patients were followed in hospital and after discharge for survival length. Descriptive statistics were used for baseline demographic data, Kaplan-Meier model and univariate cox regression were used for survival analysis.Results: Of the 199 patients enrolled in the study, 92 (46%) were males and 107 (54%) females. The mean age was 55.4 ranging between 24 and 93. The mean symptoms duration was 15 months. Most patients consulted with advanced disease, 62.3% with distant metastases. Treatment with curative intent was offered for only 19.9% of patients. The in-hospital mortality rate was 13.3%. The 3, 6, 12 and 24 months survival rate was 52%, 40.5%, 28% and 23.4% respectively. The Overall survival rate was 7 months.Conclusion: Patients with gastric cancer have delayed consultations and advanced disease at the time of presentation. This cancer is associated with poor outcomes in terms of hospital mortality and post discharge survival rates.