bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Middle Mesial Canal and Radix Entomolaris of Mandibular First Permanent Molars in a Western Chinese Population: An In Vivo Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Study
Authors: Qiao Xin , Zhu Hualing , Yan Yujia , Li Jinglin , Ren Jiayin , Gao Yuan , Zou Ling 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of the middle mesial canal (MMC) and radix entomolaris (RE) in mandibular first permanent molars in a western Chinese population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: A total of 1174 CBCT images of the mandibular first molars were collected from West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University. The following information was recorded and evaluated: the detection rate and location of the MMC and RE, the curvature of the RE, the canal configuration and bilateral symmetry. Results: The detection rates of the MMC and RE were 3.41% and 25.04%, respectively, as calculated by individuals, and 1.79% and 22.15%, respectively, as calculated by total teeth. The average curvature in the buccolingual (BL) orientation (40.63±14.39°) was significantly larger than that in the mesiodistal (MD)orientation (17.64±7.82°) (p<0.05). Of 587 patients, 71.72% (421/587) had bilateral symmetry according to the root canal morphology. The incidence of three-rooted mandibular first molars was higher in males than in females, while the incidence of two-rooted mandibular first molars was higher in females than in males. Conclusions: Our results showed that the RE could be detected in almost 1/4 of the western Chinese population; thus, RE detection requires special attention and careful assessment in endodontic treatment.
A panel analysis on preventing and controlling efficiency of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Guan Ming 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Currently, the globe is making efforts to curb the spreading of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, only a few studies have examined the associations among spreading growth, treatment efficiency, and death increase. This study aimed to examine the associations of COVID-2019 dead cases, healed cases, and recovered cases.METHODS: Data from China Data Lab in Harvard Dataverse with the China (January 22, 2020 to March 18, 2020), United States of America (USA, March 17, 2020 to April 12, 2020), and the world (January 22, 2020 to April 4, 2020) were analyzed. The main variables included in the analysis were the numbers of COVID-2019 total confirmed cases (TC), total dead cases (TD), newly dead cases (ND), newly confirmed cases (NC), newly healed cases (NH), total healed cases (TH), and newly recovered cases (NR). Pooled, dynamic, and event study analyses were conducted to reflect the associations among them.RESULTS: Descriptive analyses showed that NH/NC ratio in China are bigger than NR/NC in USA and the world. Pooled analysis showed that various roles of regions in NH and NR in a specific sample. Dynamic analysis showed significant roles of lags and NC in NH and NR. Panel event study showed that key events influence ND and NH in China significantly and NR in the world rather than NR in USA.CONCLUSION: The findings in this study indirectly confirmed the relationship between spreading growth, treatment efficiency, and death increase. China’s control strategies of COVID-19 pandemic are worth of learning by the globe.
Transmission and drug-resistance of tuberculosis in Luodian revealed by whole genome sequencing based molecular epidemiology study
Authors: Liu Mei , Xu Peng , Liao Xingwei , Li Qing , Chen Wei , Gao Qian , Li Nana , Luo Tao , Chen Ling 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
BACKGROUND

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), remains a severe public health problem globally. Guizhou has the fourth highest TB report rate of pulmonary TB around China. Uncovering the current status of TB epidemic, and distinguishing disease caused by recent or remote infections are the key issue to formulate effective prevention and control strategy. However, these data are limited in Guizhou. In this study, we aimed to investigate the transmission and drug-resistance profiles of TB in Luodian, a highest TB incidence and resources limited area in Guizhou, China.
METHODS

During 22 May 2018 to 21 April 2019, individuals with positive MTB culture were enrolled, all of them accepted the standardized interview. MTB isolates were performed whole genome sequencing. The prevalence of MTB genotypes, the genomic cluster rate and drug-resistance conferring mutations were analyzed based on the sequencing data.
RESULTS

A total of 107 cases were enrolled, of which 64.5% were male, and the median age of the patients was 51 years old (interquartile range, 40–65 years old). 84% patient were new case while 16% were retreated cases. All cases excepted three came from nine towns, and 55.1% of cases were from Longping and Bianyang. The phylogeny tree showed that 53.3% of strains were Lineage 2 (Beijing genotype), while 46.7% were Lineage 4 (Euro-American genotype). Among Lineage 2 strains, 66.7% were modern Beijing. Seven clusters with genomic distance within 12 SNVs were identified. The clusters included 14 strains, accounting for a cluster rate of 13.1%. The distance of clustered cases was between 2.1 to 71 kilometers (Km), with a media distance of 14 Km (interquartile range, 2.8–38 Km). Cases of two clusters came from the same town. Based on the gene mutations associated to drug-resistance, we predicted that 4.8% was resistant to isoniazid, 3.7% to rifampicin, 3.7% to streptomycin, and only one strain (0.9%) was multidrug resistance (MDR).
CONLUSIONS:

The study found high transmission and low drug-resistance rate in Luodian, and sublineages of modern Beijing branch had recent expansion in Luodian. this work also may serve as a genomic baseline to study the evolution and spread of MTB in Guizhou.
Interactive Participatory Audit and Feedback (IPAF): Theory-based development and multi-site implementation outcomes with specialty clinic staff
Authors: Ramly Edmond , Lauver Diane , Gilmore-Bykovskyi Andrea , Bartels Christie M 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Theory-based implementation strategies, such as audit and feedback (A&F), can improve adoption of evidence-based practices. However, few strategies have been developed and tested to meet the needs of specialty clinics. In particular, frontline staff can execute CVD risk-reduction protocols, but A&F strategies to support them have not been well examined. The objective of this paper is to develop a novel A&F strategy, Interactive Participatory A&F (IPAF), and evaluate as an implementation strategy to support specialty clinic staff. Methods: We developed IPAF by combining theories to inform staff goals (Self-Regulation Theory) and address their psychological needs for relatedness, autonomy, and confidence (Self-Determination Theory). We facilitated IPAF fidelity by developing a theory-based facilitation tool: a semi-structured worksheet to guide flexible discussion of target behaviors, perceived barriers, goals, and action plans. We evaluated IPAF in the context of eight quasi-experimental implementations in specialty clinics across two health systems. Following a Hybrid Type 2 effectiveness-implementation design, we reported intervention outcomes for CVD risk-reduction elsewhere. This paper reports implementation outcomes associated with IPAF, focusing on feasibility, acceptability, fidelity, and adoption. We evaluated implementation outcomes using mixed-methods data including Electronic Health Records (EHR) data, team records, IPAF worksheets, and staff questionnaire responses. Results: Eighteen staff participated in 99 monthly, individual, synchronous (face-to-face or by phone) IPAF sessions during the first six months of implementation. Subsequently, we provided over 375 monthly feedback emails. Feasibility data revealed high staff attendance (90-93%) and engagement in IPAF sessions. Staff rated questionnaire items about acceptability of IPAF highly. IPAF records and staff responses demonstrated fidelity of delivery and receipt of IPAF. Adoption of target behaviors increased significantly (all P-values < 0.05) and was maintained for over 24 months. Conclusions: We developed and evaluated an interactive participatory A&F strategy to improve implementation of evidence-based interventions. The IPAF toolkit combines two complementary theories: Self-Regulation Theory and Self-Determination Theory. Findings support feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity of IPAF, and staff adoption and maintenance of target behaviors. By evaluating multi-site implementation outcomes in specialty clinics with frontline staff, we have extended prior research on clinic protocols and A&F beyond primary care settings and providers.
Immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of polysaccharides from the parasitic fungus Cordyceps kyushuensis
Authors: LING Jianya , Su Jinjuan , Zhang Guoying , Sun Jing 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Ascomycete Cordyceps genus has been used as valued traditional Chinese medicines. Cordyceps kyushuensis is a unique species of Cordyceps, which parasitizes on the larvae of Clanis bilineata Walker, and its major component cordycepin and aqueous extract are known to have many pharmacological effects. However, the physiological function of water soluble polysaccharides has not been explored in detail. In this study, to resolve these doubts, we extracted and separated Cordyceps-derived polysaccharides, then evaluated the immunomodulatory and antioxidant activities. Four polysaccharide fractions were purified from Cordyceps cultured stroma by DEAE-cellulose 23 and Sephadex G-150 column chromatography. Basic structural information was elucidated on the basis of physicochemical property and spectroscopic evidences. The antioxidant activities were evaluated by DPPH radical method and protective effect of DNA damage. The qualified immunologic activities were also determined in vivo and in vitro. The polysaccharides could stimulate the proliferation of mouse splenocytes whether ConA and LPS existed or not, strengthen peritoneal macrophages to devour neutral red, and increase the content of IL-2 and TNF-α in serum. The research provides the corresponding evidence for Cordyceps polysaccharides as a potential candidate for functional foods and therapeutic agents.
Soil fertilization affects the abundance and distribution of carbon and nitrogen cycling genes in the maize rhizosphere
Authors: Enebe Matthew Chekwube , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Soil microbes performs important functions in nitrogen and carbon cycling in the biosphere. Microbial communities in the rhizosphere enhance plants’ health and promote nutrient turnover and cycling in the soil. In this experimental study, we evaluated the fundamental effects of soil fertilization with organic (compost manure) and inorganic fertilizer on the abundances and distribution of carbon and nitrogen cycling genes within the rhizospheric regions of maize plants. Our result showed that maize plants through rhizosphere effects selected and enriched the same functional genes glnA, gltB, gudB involved in nitrogen cycle as do higher compost and lower inorganic fertilizer treatments. This observation was significantly different from those of higher doses of inorganic fertilizer and lower compost manure treated soil. Only alpha amylase encoding genes were selectively enriched by lower compost and higher inorganic fertilized soil. The other treatments only selected peculiar carbon cycling genes in the rhizosphere of maize. Also Actinomycetales are selected by high compost, low inorganic fertilizer and control while Bacillales are promoted by low compost and higher inorganic fertilizer and this indicated that only microbes capable of tolerating the stress of higher dose of inorganic fertilizer will thrive under such condition. Therefore, soil fertilization lower nitrogen gas emission but increases carbon dioxide evolution in the agricultural soil.
Iron metabolism and lymphocyte subpopulations during Covid-19 infection in ICU patients: an observational cohort study and a narrative review of clinical practice.
Authors: Bolondi Giuliano , Russo Emanuele , Gamberini Emiliano , Circelli Alessandro , Meca Manlio Cosimo Claudio , Brogi Etrusca , Viola Lorenzo , Bissoni Luca , Poletti Venerino , Agnoletti Vanni 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Iron metabolism and immune response to SARS-CoV-2 have not been described yet in intensive care patients, although they are likely involved in Covid-19 pathogenesis. Little is known about clinical management of severe forms of Covid-19. Methods: we performed an observational study during the peak of pandemic in our intensive care unit, serially dosing D-dimer, C-reactive protein, Troponin T, Lactate Dehydrogenase, Ferritin, Serum iron, Transferrin, Transferrin Saturation, Transferrin Soluble Receptor, Lymphocyte count and NK, CD3, CD4, CD8, B subgroups of 31 patients during the first two weeks of their ICU stay. Correlation with mortality and severity at the time of admission was tested with Spearman coefficient and Mann-Whitney test. Trend over time were tested with Kruskall-Wallis analysis. Results: All patients show hyperferritinemia, and its dosage might be helpful in individuating patients developing hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (we observed 1 case). Lymphopenia is severe and constant, with a nadir on day 2 of ICU stay (median 0.555 109/L; interquartile range (IQR) 0.450 109/L); all lymphocytic subgroups are dramatically reduced in critically ill patients, while CD4/CD8 ratio remains normal. Neither Ferritin nor lymphocyte count follow significant trends in ICU patients. Transferrin Saturation is extremely reduced at ICU admission (median 9%; IQR 7%), then significantly increases at day 3 to 6 (median 33%, IQR 26.5%, p-value 0.026). The same trend is observed with serum iron levels (median 25.5 µg/L, IQR 69 µg/L at admission; median 73 µg/L, IQR 56 µg/L on day 3 to 6) without reaching statistical significance. D-dimer is constantly elevated and progressively increases from admission (median 1319 µg/L; IQR 1285 µg/L) to day 3 to 6 (median 6820 µg/L; IQR 6619 µg/L), despite not reaching significant results. We describe trends of all the above mentioned parameters during ICU stay and provide a narrative review of our clinical experience about critical Covid-19 patients. D-dimer is constantly elevated in our ICU population and increases from admission to a maximum on day 3 to 6 of ICU stay (median 6820 µg/L; IQR 6619 µg/L) Conclusions: iron metabolism and lymphopenia are key clinical features of Covid-19 patients in the ICU setting and have been specifically described in this paper. Keywords – MeSH repository (3-10): Iron, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, Coronavirus, Critical Care, Lymphocytes, Lymphopenia, Ferritins, Immunity, Coagulation.
DNA methylation patterns–based subtype distinction and identification of soft tissue sarcoma prognosis
Authors: Wu Zhengyuan , Yu Miao , Fan Jing-yuan , Wen Zhen-pei , Ren Tian-yu , Yao Jun , Li Jia 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are heterogeneous at the clinical with a variable tendency of aggressive behavior. Methods: In this study, we constructed a specific DNA methylation-based classification to identify the distinct prognosis-subtypes of STSs based on the DNA methylation spectrum from the TCGA database.Results: Eventually, samples were clustered into four subgroups, and their survival curves were distinct from each other. Meanwhile, the samples in each subgroup reflected differentially in several clinical features. Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was also conducted on the genes of the corresponding promoter regions of the above‐described specific methylation sites, revealing that these genes were mainly concentrated in certain cancer‑associated biological functions and pathways. In addition, we calculated the differences among clustered methylation sites and performed the specific methylation sites with LASSO algorithm. The selection operator algorithm was employed to derive a risk signature model, and a prognostic signature based on these methylation sites performed well for risk stratification in STSs patients. At last, a nomogram consisted of clinical features and risk score was developed for the survival prediction. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study declares that DNA methylation-based STSs subtype classification is highly relevant for future development of personalized therapy as it identifies the prediction value of patient prognosis.
Presence of a 34-gene signature is a favorable prognostic marker in squamous non-small cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Theelen Willemijn , Krijgsman O , Monkhorst K , Kuilman T , Peters DDGC , Cornelissen S , Ligtenberg M , Willems SM , Blaauwgeers JLG , Noesel CJM van , Peeper DS , Heuvel MM van den , Schulze K 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
The authors have removed this preprint from Research Square.
Radiological features of Central Giant Cell Granuloma: Comparative study of 7 case reports and literature review
Authors: Shrestha Samip , Zhang Jia , Yan Jun , Zeng Xiaomin , Peng Xiaoyong , He Bo 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: To review and analyze the clinical and imaging features of central giant cell granuloma patients and to review the relevant literatures for the diagnosis and clinical manifestation of central giant cell granuloma.Methods: 7 cases of central giant cell granuloma were retrospectively selected for the study all of which were confirmed by pathology and had relevant imaging investigations. All 7 cases had undergone CT scan, 3 cases had undergone MRI scan. Detailed clinical features were compared along with the imaging findings and analysis was done on the basis of their presentation and imaging features.Results: The clinical features, radiologic features were varied according to the site of the lesion. CT features include unevenly dense expansile mass causing bone destruction and cortical thinning. While MRI features with low to iso-intensity in T1 weighted and T2 weighted images. There may be presence of cystic degeneration, hemorrhage or hemosiderin deposits or osteoid formation, which can cause T1 and T2 signal changes. On contrast study, the lesion doesn’t enhance but periphery may enhance mildly. Conclusion: Unevenly dense expansile mass with bone destruction and cortical thinning with low to iso-intensity in T1 weighted and T2 weighted images and mildly enhance peripherally, CGCG should be considered.
The Potential of CBC-Derived Ratios (Monocyte-to-Lymphocyte, Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte, and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte) to Predict or Diagnose Incident TB Infection in Tanzanian Adolescents
Authors: Rees Christiaan , PINEROS Dwan , AMOUR Maryam , MUNSERI Patricia , SAID Jamila , MAGOHE Albert , MATEE Mecky , PALLANGYO Kisali , VON REYN C Fordham 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Ratios of different immune cell populations ( i.e., monocyte-to-lymphocyte, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios) have been studied as a means of predicting future tuberculosis (TB) disease risk or to assist in the diagnosis of incident TB disease. No studies to-date, however, have evaluated the potential of these ratios to predict or assist in the diagnosis of incident TB infection - the first step in the natural history of TB disease.Methods: In this prospective study, we evaluated the complete blood count (CBC)-derived metrics of monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) as predictors of future TB infection risk or aids in the diagnosis of TB infection among 145 Tanzanian adolescents enrolled in the DAR-901 vaccine trial, using paired CBCs and interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) obtained at 0, 60 and 720 days after study enrollment.Results: At baseline, there were no significant differences between study participants who remained persistently IGRA negative throughout the study period and those who subsequently converted to IGRA positive with respect to MLR (0.18 vs 0.17, p =0.10), NLR (0.88 vs 1.02, p =0.08), or PLR (115 vs 120, p =0.28). Similarly, no significant differences were noted with respect to MLR, NLR, and PLR between IGRA converters and time-matched negative controls at the time of IGRA conversion. With respect to other blood cell measures, however, there were modest but significant differences between IGRA negatives and IGRA converters with respect to red blood cell count (4.8 vs 4.5 × 10 6 cells/mcL, p =0.008), hemoglobin (12.6 vs 12.3 g/dL, p =0.01), and hematocrit (38.8 vs 37.8%, p =0.005).Conclusions: In contrast to prior studies that have suggested that the ratios of different immune cell populations are associated with development of TB disease, our present findings do not demonstrate an association between these ratios and the development of TB infection. However, decreased red blood cell measures were associated with the subsequent development of TB infection, suggesting that dysregulation of iron metabolism may play a role in TB pathogenesis.Trial Registration: Data presented are from clinical trial NCT02712424.
Clinical Characteristics and Cardiovascular Implications of 116 Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 in Wuhan, China: A single-Centered, Retrospective, Observational Study
Authors: Xiong Shiqiang , Liu Lin , Lin Feng , Shi Jinhu , Han Lei , Liu Huijian , He Lewei , Jiang Qijun , Wang Zeyang , Fu Wenbo , Li Zhigang , Lu Qing , Chen Zhinan , Ding Shifang 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), has become a global pandemic. Aged population with cardiovascular diseases are more likely be to infected with SARS-CoV-2 and result in more severe outcomes and elevated case-fatality rate. Meanwhile, cardiovascular diseases have a high prevalence in the middle-aged and elderly population. However, despite of several researches in COVID-19, cardiovascular implications related to it still remains largely unclear. Methods 116 patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were enrolled, who admitted to the General Hospital of Central Theater Command (Wuhan, China) from January 20 to March 8, 2020. The demographic data, underlying comorbidities, clinical symptoms and signs, laboratory findings, chest computed tomography, treatment measures, and outcome data were collected from electronic medical records. Data were compared between non-severe and severe cases.Results Of 116 hospitalized patients with COVID-19, the median age was 58.5 years (IQR, 47.0-69.0), and 36 (31.0%) were female. Hypertension (45 [38.8%]), diabetes (19 [16.4%]), and coronary heart disease (17 [14.7%]) were the most common coexisting conditions. Common symptoms included fever [99 (85.3%)], dry cough (61 [52.6%]), fatigue (60 [51.7%]), dyspnea (52 [44.8%]), anorexia (50 [43.1%]), and chest discomfort (50 [43.1%]). Lymphopenia (lymphocyte count, 1.0 × 109/L [IQR, 0.7-1.3]) was observed in 66 patients (56.9%), and elevated lactate dehydrogenase (245.5 U/L [IQR, 194.3-319.8]) in 69 patients (59.5%). Compared with non-severe cases, severe cases were older (64.0 years [IQR, 53.0-76.0] vs 56.0 years [IQR, 37.0-64.0]), more likely to have comorbidities (35 [63.6%] vs 24 [39.3%]), and more likely to develop acute cardiac injury (19 [34.5%] vs 4 [6.6%]), acute heart failure (18 [32.7%] vs 3 [4.9%]), and ARDS (20 [36.4%] vs 0 [0%]). During hospitalization, the prevalence of new onset hypertension was significantly higher in severe patients (55.2% vs 19.0%) than in non-severe ones. Conclusions We found that the infection of SARS-CoV-2 was more likely to occur in aged population with cardiovascular comorbidities. Cardiovascular complications, including new onset hypertension and heart injury were common in severe patients. More detailed researches in cardiovascular involvement in COVID-19 are urgently needed to further understand the disease.