bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparing the differences in three measures of healthy life expectancy, effects of mortality, and proportions of unhealthy people according to prefectures in Japan: An Ecological study
Authors: TAIRA KAZUYA , Ogata Soshiro , Kamide Kei 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Objective
Ecological study using open data collected, compiled, and published in government statistics in Japan was conducted. The study aimed to verify the differences in these three measures of healthy life expectancy (HLE), namely disability-free life expectancy without activity limitation (DFLE-AL), life expectancy with self-perceived health (LE-SH), and disability-free life expectancy without care need (DFLE-CN), in relation to appropriate policymaking.
Results
Using data from 47 prefectures in 2010, 2013, and 2016, the three types of HLE were extended over time. There were strong correlations between DFLE-AL and LE-SH (r = 0.69–0.83) as well as LE and DFLE-CN (r = 0.75–0.98) in both sexes. However, the other correlations were either weak or not significant. Regression analysis examining the association between the aging rate, mortality, the proportion of unhealthy people and three types of HLE showed that the “subjective unhealthy rate” was significant (the standardized partial regression coefficients = -0.56– -0.34) in models with DFLE-AL and LE-SH as dependent variables. Therefore, DFLE-CN was suggested to be a different indicator from the other two HLEs. The “subjective unhealthy rate” had a significant influence on the prefectural DFLE-AL and LE-SH.
Activation of EGFL7 within High Grade Ovarian Serous Carcinoma is Associated with Lower Tumor Infiltrating CD4+ and CD8+ Lymphocytes
Authors: Sznurkowski Jacek Jan , Żawrocki Anton , Krawczyńska Natalia , Bieńkowski Michał , Wasąg Bartosz , Biernat Wojciech 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
It has been suggested that Epidermal Growth Factor like domain 7 (EFFL7) promotes tumor cell escape from immunity by downregulating the activation of tumor blood vessels. Aim: to analyze mRNA expression of EGFL7 within tumor microenvironment of high-grade ovarian serous carcinoma and its association with number of intraepithelial CD4+/CD8 + lymphocytes and expression of molecule involved in diapedesis ICAM-1. Methods: qPCR analysis of EGFL7 mRNA in cancer cells and adjacent stromal endothelium microdissected from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumors of 59 high-grade ovarian serous carcinoma patients, was performed. Infiltration of intraepithelial lymphocytes (CD4+/CD8+) and expression of ICAM-1 were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and compared between tumors with different status of EGFL7 expression. Results: EGFL7 was expressed in cancer cells (9/59, 15.25%), endothelium (8/59, 13.56%), or both cancer cells and adjacent endothelium (4/59, 6.78%). ICAM-1 was expressed on cancer cells (47/59, 79.66%), stromal endothelium (46/59, 77.97%), or both epithelium and endothelium (40 of 59, 67.8%). EGFL7-positivity of cancer cells and endothelium was associated with lower intraepithelial inflow of CD4+ (p = 0.022 and p = 0.029, respectively) and CD8 + lymphocytes (p = 0.04 and p = 0.031, respectively) but impact neither epithelial nor endothelial ICAM-1 expression (p = 0.098 and p = 0.119, respectively). Patients’ median follow-up was 23.83 months (range 1.07–78.07). Lack of prognostic significance of EGFL7-status and ICAM-1 expression was notified. Conclusion: EGFL7 was independently activated in the cancer epithelium as frequently as in endothelium of human high-grade ovarian serous carcinoma. Activation of EGFL7 on cancer cells and/or endothelium impairs influx of immune cell effectors into cancer nest.
A cross-sectional nationwide survey of congenital and infantile nephrotic syndrome in Japan
Authors: Hamasaki Yuko , Hamada Riku , Muramatsu Masaki , Matsumoto Shinsuke , Aya Kunihiko , Ishikura Kenji , Kaneko Tetsuji , Iijima Kazumoto 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) and infantile nephrotic syndrome (INS) cause substantial morbidity and mortality. In Japan, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the characteristics of CNS and INS. This study aimed to clarify the characteristics of CNS and INS in Japan.Methods: This cross-sectional nationwide survey obtained data from 44 institutions in Japan managing 92 patients with CNS or INS by means of two survey questionnaires sent by postal mail. Patients aged <16 years by 1 April 2015, with a diagnosis of CNS or INS, were included in this study. The primary outcome was end-stage kidney disease.Results: A total of 83 patients with CNS or INS were analyzed. The most frequent disease type was non-Finnish (60.2%); 33 patients (39.8%) had Finnish type. Among those with non-Finnish-type disease, 26 had no syndrome and 24 had a syndrome, of which the most frequent was Denys–Drash syndrome (70.8%). Patients with non-Finnish-type disease with syndrome showed the earliest progression to end-stage kidney disease compared with the other two groups, whereas patients with non-Finnish-type disease without syndrome progressed more slowly compared with the other two groups. In the Finnish-type group, the disease was diagnosed the earliest; a large placenta was reported more frequently; genetic testing was more frequently performed (93.8%); mental retardation was the most frequent extra-renal symptom (21.2%); and thrombosis and infection were more frequent compared with the other groups. Patients with non-Finnish-type disease with syndrome had a higher frequency of positive extra-renal symptoms (79.2%), the most common being urogenital symptoms (54.2%). Treatment with steroids and immunosuppressants was more frequent among patients with non-Finnish-type disease without syndrome. Two patients with non-Finnish-type disease without syndrome achieved complete remission. In all groups, unilateral nephrectomy was performed more often than bilateral nephrectomy and peritoneal dialysis was the most common renal replacement therapy.Conclusions: The present epidemiological survey sheds light on the characteristics of children with CNS and INS in Japan. A high proportion of patients underwent genetic examination, and patient management was in accord with current treatment recommendations and practices.Trial registration: Not applicable.
Outcomes of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients with Hypothyroidism and Heart Failure
Authors: YANG MEI , Li Xuping , III John C. Morris , Liang Jinjun , Deshmukh Abhishek J. , Hodge David , Li Yi-Gang , Cha Yong-Mei 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background Hypothyroidism is known to be associated with adverse clinical outcomes in heart failure. The association between hypothyroidism and cardiac resynchronization therapy outcomes in patients with severe heart failure is not clear. Methods The study included 1,316 patients who received cardiac resynchronization therapy between 2002 and 2015. Baseline demographics and cardiac resynchronization therapy outcomes, including left ventricular ejection fraction, New York Heart Association class, appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy, and all-cause mortality, were collected from the electronic health record. Results Of the study cohort, 349 patients (26.5%) were classified as the hypothyroidism group. The median duration of follow-up was 3.6 years (interquartile range, 1.7-6.2). Hypothyroidism was associated with a greater all-cause mortality than euthyroidism (hazard ratio, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.01-1.38; P=0.04). In this group, the risk of appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy significantly increased in association with increased baseline thyroid-stimulating hormone level (hazard ratio, 1.27 per 5 mIU/L increase, 95% CI, 1.00-1.53, P=0.04). Conclusions Cardiac resynchronization therapy improves cardiac function in hypothyroid patients. Hypothyroidism has adverse effects on cardiac resynchronization therapy outcomes with reduced survival and increased implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapies for ventricular arrhythmic events.
Identification of novel pig and human immunoglobulin G-binding proteins and characterization of the binding regions of enolase from Streptococcus suis serotype 2
Authors: Li Quan , Fu Yang , Guo Genglin , Wang Zhuohao , Zhang Wei 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Streptococcus suis, a major emerging pathogen in swine and humans, expresses immunoglobulin G (IgG)-binding proteins (IBPs), which contribute to the ability of organism to evasion of host immune system. The objective of this study was to identify novel pig IgG (pIgG) and human IgG (hIgG)-binding proteins and characterize the binding regions of enolase from Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (S. suis 2). Here, four pIgG-binding proteins (pIBPs) and five hIgG-binding proteins (hIBPs) were identified from S. suis 2 surface proteins by 2D-Far-western blot assays. All the newly captured proteins were expressed and further confirmed their binding activity to pIgG or hIgG by Far-western blot and dot blot. In addition to previously identified factor H, fibronectin, collagen, fibrinogen, plasminogen and laminin, we also found that both pIgG and hIgG can specifically interact with enolase. Binding assays indicated that interactions of S. suis 2 enolase with pIgG and hIgG is primarily mediated by the enolase C-terminal portion (Enolase-C, a.a. 142-432). We found that hIgG exhibited stronger binding ability to Enolase-C than pIgG. Further analysis of the C-terminal regions of enolase (Enolase-C1 and Enolase-C2) suggested that the C-terminus possessed two different binding domains with distinct host IgG proteins. Strikingly, we confirmed that pIgG interacted with the Enolase-C1 (a.a. 142-271) and hIgG interacted with the Enolase-C2 (a.a. 271-432). These observations of enolase provide interesting insights in the pathogenesis of S. suis infection.
Observation of the effects of moxibustion on acute and chronic radiation enteritis in cervical patients
Authors: Wu Xiaoxin , Xiao Cheng , Li Gong , Qiu Shenghong , Gao Lei 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe present prospective, observational study evaluated the safety and efficacy of moxibustion in preventing acute and chronic radiation enteritis post-radiation in patients with cervical cancer.MethodsBetween March 2015 and October 2018, 90 patients with stage I-IV cervical cancer were treated with radiation at the Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine Second Affiliated Hospital (Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine). The patients were randomly divided into a moxibustion group and a control group. The moxibustion group received moxibustion on Guānyuán (RN4), Qìhǎi (RN6), Shénquē (RN8) and Tiānshū (ST25) during radiation. The control group received radiotherapy only. We observed and compared the occurrence of acute radiation enteritis (ARE) between the two groups of patients during radiotherapy. Then, the patients were followed-up 1-1.5-year after radiation, and we observed and compared the occurrence of chronic radiation enteritis (CRE) between the two groups.ResultsThe incidence of ARE was significantly lower in the moxibustion group (10.9%) than the control group (36.4%; P < 0.05). At follow-up post-radiotherapy, the incidence of CRE was significantly reduced (15.2%) in the moxibustion group compared with the control group (35.7%; P < 0.05).ConclusionsMoxibustion significantly improved physical function and reduce the gastrointestinal response caused by radiotherapy, thus the occurrence of acute and chronic radiation enteritis was reduced. These results can improve the therapeutic effect of radiation and improve the patient’s quality of life.Trial registrationProspective clinical trial for the effects of moxibustion on acute and chronic radiation enteritis in cervical patients. ChiCTR2000029650. Registered: February 9, 2020-Retrospectively registered.
The differences of clinical characteristics and outcomes between imported and local patients of COVID-19 in Hunan: A two-center retrospective study
Authors: Wang Chang , Zhou Lizhi , Chen Juan , Yang Yong , Huang Tianlong , Fu Min , Li Ya , Chen Xiangyu 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: The clinical characteristics and outcomes of 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pneumonia are different in Hubei and out of Hubei in China. But there are few comparative studies on the imported and local patients.Methods: We investigated 169 patients of COVID-19 pneumonia in two centers in Hunan Province, and divided into two groups according to epidemiology history, aiming to analyze the difference of clinical characteristics and outcomes in the two groups. All the epidemiological, clinical, imaging, and laboratory data were analyzed and contrasted.Results: The incidence of fever on admission in imported patients was significantly higher than local patients. The proportion of abnormal pulmonary signs was also significantly higher in imported patients. There was a significantly higher proportion of hypokelamia, hyponatremia in imported patients than that in local patients. Compared with local patients, the imported patients using antibiotics, glucocorticoids and gamma globulin were significantly higher. The moderate type was more common in local patients, and the severe type are more frequent in imported patients. In addition, the median duration of viral clearance was longer in imported patients.Conclusions: In summary, we found that imported patients more likely developed into severe patients than local patients and required more powerful treatments.Trial registration: We registered 21 March, 2020, and this study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee (Approved Number. 2020017).
The Influence of the Accreditation Reports from the European Council on Chiropractic Education (ECCE) on Improvements/Changes to the Chiropractic Programmes that they Evaluate: An Audit study and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Peterson Cynthia , Miller Joyce , Humphreys B. Kim , Vall Ken 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: The European Council on Chiropractic Education (ECCE) has been in existence since 1981 and currently accredits 10 chiropractic programmes throughout Europe and South Africa. Although it has always been assumed that the ECCE evaluation events and subsequent reports have resulted in improvements and growth to the individual chiropractic programmes, no systematic evaluation as to whether this is true and the extent of any improvements has previously been done. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to collect data from the accredited programmes regarding the degree of changes made to the 10 sections of the ECCE Standards as well as which specific improvements were done.Methods: This was a mixed methods audit study using questionnaires which included 10 closed statements requesting the degree of change (substantial, some, none) to the 10 sections of the ECCE ‘Standards’ based on previous evaluation reports. The proportion of responses falling into the three categorical options for each question was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The second part of the survey collected written responses identifying the specific ‘substantial’ or ‘some’ changes made based on previous evaluation reports. The analysis of the written statements used a modified ‘thematic analysis’ approach. Three researchers independently evaluating all statements and identified ‘themes’ from the written responses. These researchers then met to discuss and agree final themes.Results: There was a 100% response rate. Seven programmes (i.e. 70%) reported ‘some’ or ‘substantial’ changes to 6 or more of the 10 sections of the ECCE Standards. The most common section of the Standards for programmes to report changes was ‘Educational Programme’ (8 of 10 programmes). ‘Educational Resources’ had the largest number of programmes reporting ‘substantial changes’ (4) and was the second most common section of the Standards to have reported changes. The main themes identified emphasized the improvements in ‘infrastructure, equipment and faculty’, ‘increasing the teaching and use of ‘evidence-based practice’, ‘instilling a research culture in faculty and students’.Conclusions: This study documents that ECCE accreditation reports are useful in facilitating improvements to the chiropractic programmes, particularly in the areas of improved infrastructure and faculty as well as research and evidence-based practice.
Attitudes and preferences toward fecal microbiota transplantation among patients with cancer
Authors: Zheng Rujun , Yue Zhiying , Fu Yan , Xiang Qiufen , Zhu Jiang , Chen Lin , Yu Chunhua , Li Junying 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: To investigate the attitudes and preferences toward fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) among patients with cancer, during anti-tumor treatment in the hospital.Methods: A self-report questionnaire was administered to survey 101 patients with cancer at the Cancer Center of West China Hospital during their hospitalization and treatment. The patients were asked about their willingness to undergo FMT, and their preferences and attitudes regarding the donor, route, expenditure, and possible adverse effects. Results: Most of the patients were willing to accept FMT. Patients with younger adults (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.853-0.985, P = 0.018), a higher educational level (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.101-0.576; P = 0.001) and later tumor stage (OR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.058-0.568; P = 0.003) were more likely to select FMT as a treatment option. PS score was one of the most important factors that affecting the patients’ choice of donor for FMT (χ2 = 8.69, P = 0.013), willingness to pay for FMT (χ2 = 13.02, P = 0.005), and concerns about adverse effects for FMT (χ2 = 12.18, P = 0.002). Conclusions: Clinical characteristics of patients with cancer may influence whether they choose FMT as therapy, and if willing, attitudes regarding donor, route, expenditure, and adverse effects. Nurses and other healthcare providers should assess the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with cancer to help them make appropriate medical decisions.
Stability and Bifurcations in a Discrete-Time Epidemic Model with Vaccination and Vital Dynamics
Authors: Parsamanesh Mahmood , Erfanian Majid , Mehrshad Saeed 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe spread of infectious diseases is such important that changes the demography of the population. Therefore, prevention and intervention measures are essential to control and eliminate the disease. Among the drug and non-drug interventions, vaccination is a powerful strategy to preserve the population from infection. Mathematical models are useful to study the behavior of an infection when it enters a population and investigate under which conditions it will be wiped out or continued.ResultsA discrete-time SIS epidemic model is introduced that includes a vaccination program. Some basic properties of this model are obtained; such as the equilibria and the basic reproduction number $\mathcal{R}_0$ . Then the stability of the equilibria is given in terms of $\mathcal{R}_0$ , and moreover, the bifurcations of the model are studied. By applying the forward Euler method on the continuous version of model, a discretized model is obtained and analyzed. ConclusionIt is proved that the disease-free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium are stable if $\mathcal{R}_0<1$ and $\mathcal{R}_0>1$ , respectively. The system has a transcritical bifurcation when $\mathcal{R}_0=1$ and it might also have period-doubling bifurcation. The sufficient conditions for the stability of equilibria in the discretized model are established. The numerical discussions verify the theoretical results.
A health care record review of early mobility activities after fragility hip fracture: Utilizing the French systematic method to inform future interventions
Authors: Haslam-Larmer Lynn , Woo Kevin , Auais Mohammad , Donnelly Catherine , DePaul Vincent 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background A fragility hip fracture is a serious injury in older adults. Following a fragility fracture, a large percentage of patients are unable to regain their pre-fracture level of mobility. There are several international guidelines recommending early mobility after surgery. We do not know the utilization of these early mobility recommendations by health care providers within our institution. An evidence to practice gap occurs when there is a failure to implement best practices. Utilization of a systematic method allows for a strategic approach to assessment of an evidence to practice gap. A recent publication of quality standards in Ontario provides an opportunity for a local needs assessment of potential evidence to practice gaps. The aim of this project was to identify evidence to practice gaps in health care provider implementation of recommendations for early mobility after fragility hip fracture surgery.Methods A retrospective chart review was performed to document the rates of early mobility activities during the first five days after hip fracture surgery at a large tertiary centre in Toronto, Ontario. Patients with cognitive impairment were included.Results Early mobility activities in this older adult population are initiated in the first five days after surgery to varying degrees. Between 11% - 50% of patients are not participating in early mobility activities, thereby not meeting recommendations. Those with low pre-fracture function and cognitive impairment have lower rates of participation when compared to those with a high pre-fracture function and no cognitive impairment.Conclusions The chart review has identified a paucity of contextual information which may influence health care providers’ behaviours related to early mobility. The chart audit is limited in its ability to assess the systems issues, which may have an influence on the health care provider behaviour. Considering the lack of information in these areas, we have identified that further work is required to explore factors which may be having an impact on the health care provider’s ability to engage the patients in early mobility activities.