bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reduced serum VGF levels are linked with suicide risk in Chinese Han patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: wang chuang , Li Xingxing , Ge Huifei , Wu Xiangping , Qi Gangqiao , Chen Zan , Yu Chang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yu Haihang , Zhou Dongsheng 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background VGF is a neuropeptide that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD). However, no studies have yet investigated VGF levels in patients with MDD who are at risk of suicide. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether serum VGF levels are related to suicide risk in patients with MMD. Methods A total of 107 patients with MDD and 40 normal control participated in the present study. The risk of suicide was assessed using the Nurses Global Assessment of Suicide Risk (NGASR). On this basis, 60 patients were assigned to a high-risk group (NGASR≥9) and 47 were assigned to a low-risk group (NGASR<9). The severity of depression was measured using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). Levels of serum VGF were determined using a double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Serum VGF levels in the high-risk group (883.34±139.67 pg/mL) were significantly lower than in the low-risk group (1020.56±131.76 pg/mL) and in the control group (1107.00±155.38 pg/mL) (F=31.90, p<0.001). In patients with MDD, suicide risk was significantly negatively correlated with VGF levels (r = -0.55, p=0.001). Conclusions Reduced serum VGF levels are related to risk of suicide in patients with MDD, so VGF may be one key biomarker of suicide risk in MDD.
Comparative analysis of the effects of antidepressant therapy on emotional improvement in patients with Parkinson’s disease complicated with depression
Authors: Chen Jing , Xu Pengfei , Guo Xunyi , Zou Tao 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Objective This study aimed to compare the effects of different antidepressant therapies on emotional improvement in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) complicated with depression, and to explore effective strategies in PD treatment. Methods A total of 328 patients with idiopathic PD admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University and Second People’s Hospital of Guiyang were consecutively selected. The 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-17) was used to screen whether patients with PD exhibited depressive symptoms. The treatment group included 131 eligible patients, but 118 completed the study. The patients were randomized to conventional treatment, conventional treatment + escitalopram, conventional treatment + pramipexole, and conventional treatment + transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) groups. The effects of antidepressant therapies were assessed using the HAMD score reduction rate after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. Results The prevalence of PD complicated with depression was 53.4%, and was significantly higher in females than in males. The response rate in the conventional treatment, escitalopram, pramipexole, and TMS groups was 34.48%, 93.10%, 87.09%, and 75.86%, respectively. This indicated that the escitalopram group had the best efficacy. After 2 and 4 weeks of treatment, the HAMD scores of each group were significantly lower than those before treatment. The reduction in HAMD scores was the most significant in the pramipexole group after 2 weeks of treatment and in the escitalopram group after 4 weeks of treatment. Conclusion Escitalopram, pramipexole, and high-frequency TMS had better efficacy in patients with PD complicated with depression, with escitalopram being the most effective.
Trends in Measures of Handgrip Strength from 2014 to 2017 Among Korean Adolescents using the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data
Authors: Kang Yunkoo , Kim Jieun , Kim Seung , Park Sowon , Lim Hyunjung , Koh Hong 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: The incidence of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease among adolescents is increasing worldwide. Adolescents are also known to have sarcopenia along with these conditions. Measuring handgrip strength is a useful method to evaluate sarcopenia. No study has shown the trends of muscle quality (handgrip-to-weight) among Korean adolescents by year. This study aimed to determine the trends of handgrip strength among Korean adolescents using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).Methods: Data of 2,304 adolescents (1,227 boys; 1,077 girls; age, 10–18 years) who participated in the KNHANES between 2014 and 2017 were obtained. Muscle quality was estimated by dividing handgrip strength by body weight (handgrip-to-weight ratio). The handgrip-to-weight ratios were categorized by age, sex, and year. Results: Handgrip strength in adolescents decreased from 28.67kg in 2014 to 27kg in 2017. (P for trend<0.05) The handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased from 51.48 in 2014 to 48.18 in 2017 (P for trend<0.05). The handgrip strength and handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased significantly among boys and girls over the years 2014–2017 (P for trend<0.05). Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that the handgrip-to-weight ratio decreased in Korean adolescents from the years 2014 to 2017, and a declining overall ratio indicates a decrease in the quality of muscles among Korean adolescents. Hence, there is a need to review the health status of Korean adolescents, and measures should be taken to prevent its deterioration.
Synergistic inhibition of metastatic breast cancer by dual-chemotherapy with excipient-free rhein/DOX nanodispersions
Authors: Wang Ruoning , Yang Yujie , Yang Mengmeng , Yuan Dandan , Huang Jinyu , Chen Rui , Wang Honglan , Hu Lihong , Di Liuqing , Li Junsong 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: The treatment of metastatic cancer continues to be very challenging worldwide. Notably, excipient-free nanodispersions that are entirely composed of pharmaceutically active molecules are regarded as promising candidates for the next generation of drug formulations. These molecules are mainly formulated from the self-assembly of drug molecules that enable the safe and effective delivery of therapeutic drugs to local diseased lesions. Herein, we developed a novel and green approach for preparing nanoparticles via the self-assembly of rhein (RHE) and doxorubicin (DOX) molecules, named RHE/DOX nanoparticles (RD NPs); this assembly was associated with π−π stacking interactions and did not involve any organic solvents. Results：Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showed that DOX molecules tend to assemble around RHE molecules through intermolecular forces. With the advantage of nanosizing, RD NPs improved the intracellular drug retention of DOX. As a dual-drug-loaded nanoformulation, the toxicity of RD NPs to tumor cells in vitro was synergistically enhanced. The combination of DOX and RHE in nanoparticles exhibited a synergistic effect with a combination index (CI) value of 0.51 and showed a stronger ability to induce cell apoptosis compared to that of free DOX. Furthermore, RD NPs treatment not only effectively suppressed primary tumor growth but also successfully inhibited tumor metastasis both in vitro and in vivo, with a good safety profile. Conclusion: The generation of pure nanodrugs via a self-assembly approach might be an option and may provide inspiration for the fabrication of new excipient-free nanodispersions, especially for two small molecular antitumor drugs that could potentially have synergistic antiproliferation effects against metastatic breast cancer.
ROS-triggered self-accelerating drug release nanosystem with charge conversion for enhanced cancer therapy
Authors: Zhang Xinyi , Zhu Tiantian , Miao Yaxin , Zhou Lu , Zhang Weifang 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: The enhancement tumor retention and of cellular uptake of drugs are important factors in maximizing anticancer therapy and minimizing side effects of encapsulated drugs. Herein, a delivery nanoplatform with a pH-triggered charge-reversal capability and self-amplifiable reactive oxygen species (ROS) level inducing drug release pattern was constructed by encapsulating doxorubicin (DOX) in pH/ROS-responsive polymeric micelle.Results: The surface charge of this system can be converted from negative to positive for enhanced tumor cell uptake in response to the weakly acidic tumor tissue. In addition, methionine-based system was dissociated in a ROS-rich intracellular environment, resulting in a phase transition and the release of DOX. Then, the exposed α-tocopheryl succinate (α-TOS) segments can be capable of producing ROS, which further induced the self-amplifiable disassembly of the micelles and drug release. Conclusions: We confirmed efficient DOX delivery into cancer cells, upregulation of tumoral ROS level and induction of the apoptotic capability in vitro. The system exhibited outstanding tumor inhibition capability in vivo, indicating that dual stimuli nanosytem would be great potential as an anticancer drug delivery platform.
COQ8B nephropathy: early detection and optimal treatment
Authors: Song Xiaoxiang , Fang Xiaoyan , Tang Xiaoshan , Cao Qi , Zhai Yihui , Chen Jing , Liu Jialu , Zhang Zhiqing , Xiang Tianchao , Qian Yanyan , Wu Bingbing , WANG Huijun , Zhou Wenhao , Liu Cuihua , Shen Qian , Xu Hong , Rao jia 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background Mutations in COQ8B as a defect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) cause steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Methods To define the clinical course and prognosis of COQ8B nephropathy, we retrospective assessed the genotype, phenotype in patients with COQ8B mutations from Chinese Children Genetic Kidney Disease Database. We performed the comparing study of renal outcome following CoQ10 treatment and renal transplantation between early genetic detection and delay genetic detection group. Results We identified 20 (5.8%) patients with bi-allelic mutations of COQ8B screening from patients with SRNS, non-nephrotic proteinuria, or CKD of unknown origin. Patients with COQ8B mutations showed a largely renal-limited phenotype presenting with proteinuria and/or advanced CKD at time of diagnosis. Renal biopsy uniformly showed FSGS. Proteinuria was decreased, whereas the renal function was preserved in five patients following CoQ10 administration combined with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. The renal survival analysis disclosed a significantly better outcome in early genetic detection group than in delay genetic detection group (Kaplan-Meier plot and log rank test, p=0.037). Seven patients underwent deceased donor renal transplantation without recurrence of proteinuria or graft failure. Blood pressure showed decreased significantly during 6 to 12 months post transplantation. Conclusions COQ8B mutations are one of the most common causes of adolescent-onset proteinuria and/or CKD of unknown etiology in the Chinese children. Early detection of COQ8B nephropathy following CoQ10 supplementation combined with ACEI could slow the progression of renal dysfunction. Renal transplantation in patients with COQ8B nephropathy showed no recurrence of proteinuria.
Perceptions of beneficiaries and health professionals regarding a conditional cash transfer program to improve pregnancy follow-up: a qualitative analysis of the NAITRE randomized controlled study
Authors: MARCEAU AURELIE GODARD , Meunier-Beillard Nicolas , Deruelle Philippe , Morin Mathieu , Virtos Claude , Echman-Lacroix Astrid , Debras Elodie , Laforet Laurent , Bardou Marc 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: Economic incentives have been used in several countries to improve pregnancy follow-up, to encourage families to bring their infants to see a doctor, and to promote school attendance. However, these conditional cash transfer programs (CCTs) are often subject to criticism. The NAITRE study, which is currently underway in France, assesses the use of CCT to promote prenatal care in women with low socioeconomic backgrounds and has also been the focus of such criticism. The objective of the qualitative study was to analyse how the CCT is perceived by the women and health professionals involved in the project. These data are essential for in-depth understanding of the elements that could encourage or deter a generalization of the process. Methods: A multicentre, cross-sectional, qualitative study was conducted among 26 women included in the NAITRE trial and 8 health professionals (physicians and midwives). All data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and transcribed in their entirety. A thematic content analysis was then used to generate the results. Results: In the interviews, the women expressed surprise regarding the offer of a cash incentive. However, they did not perceive the CCT negatively, but saw it rather as a significant source of aid for women with limited financial resources. Some even expressed feeling as though they were supported far beyond the financial support. The health professionals were much less positive. Still, though they all stressed the ethical considerations related to the premise of the trial, they recognized the need for such an evaluation. Conclusions: In a country where access to health care is facilitated by a nationalized health insurance system, the use of a CCT to improve medical follow-up during pregnancy raises ethical questions for the health professionals involved. However, an analysis of the interviews conducted with the women who received compensation showed that they did not feel stigmatized. While the women generally reported that the CCT money allowed them to better prepare for the birth, none indicated that they changed their behaviour relative to medical follow-up during the pregnancy.
Influences on NHS Health Check behaviours: a systematic review
Authors: Atkins Lou , Stefanidou Chryssa , Chadborn Tim , Thompson Katherine , Michie Susan , Lorencatto Fabi 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background National Health Checks were introduced in the English National Health Service (NHS) in 2009 to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks and events. Following Public Health England’s (PHE’s) 2017 Digital review, NHS Health Checks were identified as a Digital Exemplar for PHE forming part of the Predictive Prevention programme, setting out the government’s vision for putting prevention at the heart of the nation’s health. This study applied behavioural science frameworks to: i) identify behaviours and actors relevant to uptake, delivery and follow up of NHS Health Checks and influences on these behaviours and; ii) signpost to example intervention content, with a focus on digital intervention development. Methods A systematic review of studies reporting NHS Health Check-related behaviours of patients, health care professionals (HCPs) and commissioners. Influences on behaviours were coded using theory-based models: COM-B and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Potential intervention types and behaviour change techniques (BCTs) were suggested to target key influences. Results We identified 37 studies reporting nine behaviours and influences for eight of these. The most frequently identified influences were physical opportunity including HCPs having space and time to deliver NHS Health Checks and patients having money to adhere to recommendations to change diet and physical activity. Other key influences were motivational, such as beliefs about consequences about the value of NHS Health Checks and behaviour change, and social, such as influences of others on behaviour change. The following techniques are suggested for websites or smartphone apps: Adding objects to the environment, e.g. provide HCPs with electronic schedules to guide timely delivery of Health Checks to target physical opportunity, Social support (unspecified) , e.g. include text suggesting patients to ask a colleague to agree in advance to join them in taking the ‘healthy option’ lunch at work; Information about health consequences , e.g. quotes and/or videos from patients talking about the health benefits of changes they have made. Conclusions Through the application of behavioural science we identified key behaviours and their influences which informed recommendations for digital intervention content. To ascertain the extent to which this reflects existing interventions we recommend a review of relevant evidence.
Information Processing of Health Warning Messages on Cigarette Packs in Youth: An Application of Elaboration Likelihood Model
Authors: Shahi Fatemeh , Pourrazavi Sara , Kouzekanani Kamiar , Jafarabadi Mohammad Asghari , Allahverdipour Hamid 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background The study examined the processing route of anti-smoking messages and influencing cognitive factors by using the Elaboration Likelihood Model. Methods The non-probability sample for the cross-sectional study consisted of 387 smokers in the age range of 18 to 30 years old in Tabriz, Iran. A researcher-designed questionnaire was used for the purpose of data collection. No causal inferences were drawn due to the non-experimental nature of the study. Results It was found that smokers often processed warning messages through the central route. Perceived severity, smoking abstinence self-efficacy, and psychological dependence were predictors of message processing through the central route. The results supported the conceptual model of cognitional predictors of the processing route. Conclusions To design and execute effective health warning messages to quit smoking, it is recommended to consider cognitive factors as a means to enhance critical thinking about the content of the message.
Over reliance on pesticides and poor handling practices characterize intensive vegetable farming: case of selected smallholders in southwestern Uganda
Authors: Rwakipamba Eziron , Sseremba Godfrey , Byalebeka John , Ssekandi Joseph , Mwine Julius 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
This study investigated the extent of pesticide use and poor handling practices which characterize intensive vegetable farming, among smallholder vegetable farmers in south western Uganda. 100% of respondents were using pesticides for control of pest and diseases, and over 78% applied pesticides on a twice-a-week basis. Majority of farmers used pesticides in violation of recommended procedures/rules; use of unsafe storage facilities, ignore risks and safety instructions, and did not calibrate the spray equipment, and disposed of containers unsafely. Poor pesticide-handling practices were associated with farmers’ lack of knowledge and awareness in use and handling, inadequate extension services, low education levels, and the everyday context in which pesticides were bought and used. A careful approach to analyze pesticide use and handling practices to systematically identify ways to change the current farmers’ practices needs to be adopted or undertaken.
Thickness change of masseter muscles and the surrounding soft tissues during orthodontic treatment: a retrospective study
Authors: Pan Yichen , Chen Si , Shen Linhui , Pei Yuru , Zhang Yungeng , Xu Tianmin 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: Facial esthetics is a major concern of orthodontic patients. This study aims to evaluate orthodontic treatment-related thickness changes of the masseter muscles and surrounding soft tissue and the potential factors that would influence these changes during orthodontic treatment in female adults.Methods: Forty-two female adult patients were included in this retrospective study and were divided into extraction (n=22) and nonextraction (n=20) groups. Pretreatment and posttreatment cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were superimposed and reconstructed. The thickness changes of the masseter area of facial soft tissue (MAS), masseter muscles (MM) and surrounding fat tissue (FT) were measured. Pretreatment age, treatment duration, sagittal relationship (ANB), and vertical relationship (Frankfurt-mandibular plane angle, FMA)-related MAS, MM and FT changes were compared between extraction and nonextraction groups. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was calculated between the above variables. Regression analysis was conducted to confirm the causal relations of the variables.Results: The thickness of MAS and MM significantly decreased in both groups, with larger decreases (>1 mm) in the extraction group. There were strong correlations (r>0.7) between the thickness decrease in MAS and MM in both groups and moderate correlations (r>0.4) between MAS and FT in the nonextraction group. A significantly greater decrease of MAS and MM were found to be moderately correlated with a smaller FMA (r>0.4) in the extraction group. Scatter plots and regression analysis confirmed these correlations.Conclusions: Masseter muscles and the surrounding soft tissue exhibited a significant decrease in thickness during orthodontic treatment in female adults. Low-angle patients experienced a greater decrease in soft tissue thickness in the masseter area in the extraction case. But the thickness changes were clinically very small in most patients.
Combining Global Positioning System (GPS) with Saliva Collection among Sexual Minority Adults: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Chen Tzuan , Smith Nathan Grant , Regan Seann , Obasi Ezemenari M. , Anderson Kathryn Freeman , Reitzel Lorraine R. 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: This is the first study, of which we are aware, to evaluate the feasibility of simultaneous use of Global Positioning System (GPS) and saliva collection for biomarker assessment among sexual minority (lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and other non-heterosexual identities) individuals. The principal motivation for pairing GPS and saliva collection was to investigate how characteristics of the built and social environments along with participants’ daily activity paths affect stress. This can contribute to a better understanding of health and health behaviors in the sexual minority community. Methods: A convenience sample of enrolled participants (N=124) from Houston, Texas was asked to complete questionnaires, carry with them a GPS unit daily, and collect and store 6 samples of saliva at specific times across the span of a day prior to a second visit around one week later. Results: Of 124 participants, only 16 participants (12.90%) provided no useable GPS data, whereas 98 (79.03%) provided at least 4 days of data. More than three-fourths (n = 98, 79.03%) also provided complete saliva samples. Conclusions: Our results show that the simultaneous use of GPS and saliva collection to assess sexual minority individuals’ activity paths and stress level is feasible.
Salivary β2- microglobulin Levels in Patients with Oral Lichen Planus and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Nosratzehi Fatemeh , Nosratzehi Tahereh , Alijani Ebrahim , Rad Soha Saberi 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Objectiveβ2 microglobulin one of the biomarkers which are used to oral malignancy and pre-malignance lesion diagnosis. The components of the microglobulin system can help in growing and development of tumors directly or indirectly. The current study aims to evaluate the salivary β2- microglobulin level in malignance and pre-malignance lesion. The statistical population of research consists of 75 people which 25 people were healthy, 25 were infected by oral Lichen Planus (OLP) and remaining were infected by squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The salivary data was performed by none –stimulated spitting method. The sample was performing during 9-12 AM and samples were transmitted to the laboratory immediately and salivary beta2microglobin was recorded based on the factory instructions by ELISA optical density method with 45Nm wavelength for each sample. Data analysis was performed by SPSS 24 software and ANOVA and post-hoc least significant difference (LSD) test.ResultsThe salivary β2 microglobulin level in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and oral lichen plan (OLP) patient is significantly higher than the healthy group. Therefore, we can use this index as a modern treatment protocol for malignancy and a pre-malignance oral lesion.