bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptome analysis between high- and low-growth genotypes of Eucalyptus in response to nutrient stress
Authors: Yang Xiaohui , Zhang Fangqiu , Zhang Weihua , Yang Huixiao , Liao Huanqin , Xu Fang , Zhu Baozhu , Xu Bin , Wang Yuxia , Chen Xinyu , Pan Wen 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: The role of macro and micro nutrients have been reported in various plant. However, in perennial trees, the function of multiple elements to different genotypes remain to be elucidated. This study aimed at deciphering the genetic architecture of physiological differences under different nutrient levels between the high- and low-growth genotypes. Results: Our results showed that growth traits of both genotypes at nutrient starvation treatment was much lower than that at nutrient abundant treatment, indicating that nutrient is essential for plant growth. However, tree height, crown width, and fresh weight of different tissues of ZQUA44 were much higher than that of ZQUB15 at the three nutrient levels, implicating the genetic basis of different trees is another factor that varied the phenotypic performance. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were clustered into 6 subclusters depending on different expression pattern. Functional annotation of DEGs from different subclusters showed that DEGs involved in glutathione metabolism, flavonoid biosynthesis and stilbenoid, diarylheptanoid and gingerol biosynthesis may responsible for nutrient starvation across different genotypes, while DEGs involved in carotenoid biosynthesis and starch and sucrose metabolism may have diverse function in different genotypes. The DEGs encoding MYB_related may responsible for nutrient deficiency of all the genotypes, while B3 may play different functions in different genotypes. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that different genotypes may form different metabolic pathways to coordinate plant keeping survival when they face abiotic stresses. Furthermore, we elucidate DEGs that may widely responsible for nutrient deficiency in different treatments and DEGs that play different functions in different genotypes. Finally, our funding provide adequate nutrient supply for Eucalyptus.
CNS and systemic inflammation underlying neuropsychiatric symptoms and related cognitive decline in older people.
Authors: Clark Christopher , Richiardi Jonas , Maréchal Bénédicte , Bowman Gene L. , Dayon Loïc , Popp Julius 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinflammation may contribute to psychiatric symptoms in older people, in particular in the context of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, our objective was to determine systemic and central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory signatures associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in older subjects, and investigate their relationships with AD pathology and cognitive decline.METHODS We quantified a panel of inflammatory markers in both cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and circulating blood serum in elderly subjects with normal cognition or with beginning cognitive decline. We further performed a comprehensive clinical assessment including longitudinal cognitive and neuropsychiatric evaluations and measured CSF biomarkers of core AD pathology. Multivariate analysis selected CSF and serum neuroinflammatory molecules associated with the presence of overall NPS and specific symptoms.RESULTS The presence of NPS was associated with distinct inflammatory markers profiles involving soluble intracellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin (IL) -8 and 10 kDa interferon-γ-induced protein (IP-10) in CSF; and Eotaxin-3, IL-6 and CRP in serum. Further analysis identified specific inflammatory marker signatures associated with anxiety, depression and disinhibition. Presenting NPS was associated with subsequent cognitive decline and this association was mediated by CSF sICAM-1.CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that NPS in older people are associated with distinct systemic and CNS inflammatory processes. Neuroinflammation may explain the link between NPS and more rapid clinical disease progression.
Evaluation of Field Epidemiology Training Programs in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: A Multi-country Study
Authors: Nsour Mohannad Al , Khader Yousef , Bashier Haitham , Alsoukhni Majd 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) are competency-based training programs aiming to strengthen epidemiologic capacity of public health workforce. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the FETPs in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) and ascertain whether the expected objectives of the programs are metMethods: A descriptive study was conducted based on the Kirkpatrick’s model for evaluating training programs. Data were collected from FETP graduates and FETP technical advisers using online surveys through separate questionnaires. Questions were designed to assess the practices of FETP graduates, their engagement in key areas of field epidemiology, and their perceived skills and capacity to perform such activities.Results: A total of 166 FETP graduates responded to the online survey. Almost two thirds of FETP graduates reported that they are often engaged in managing public health surveillance system (n=119, 71.7%), analyzing the surveillance data (n=116, 69.9%), training public health professionals (n=113, 68.1%), outbreaks investigations and response (n=109, 65.7%), and managing staff and resources (n=106, 63.9%). However, only 28.3% reported that they are often engaged in writing scientific research articles. More than two thirds of graduates reported that the FETP helped them to perform most of the field epidemiology activities and rated their skills as good. However, smaller percentages of the graduates reported that their skills are good in applying simple tools for economic analysis (65, 39.2%) and writing scientific research articles (67, 40.4%).Conclusion: FETPs in the EMR have strengthened the epidemiologic capacity of public health workforce and increased the engagement of FETP graduates in public health services and field epidemiology activities. Therefore, the FETPs should continue supporting the graduates to work toward strengthening surveillance systems and outbreak investigation and to participate in regional and global efforts as part of Global Health Security. Establishment of new FETPs in other countries of the region should be supported to improve public health in all countries of the region.
Prevalence of Hookah smoking and associated factors among male high school students in Iraq.
Authors: Al-Delaimy Ahmed K. , Al-Ani Waleed AT 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background The use of the hookah-smoking device is increasing at a large scale in the Eastern Mediterranean region and reaching to Western countries. Hookah smoke users are exposed to a lot of chemical compounds and several chronic diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of hookah use among male high school students and to study different associated factors linked with hookah smoking and provide tobacco control officials an understanding of this public health problem.Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among students in three high schools in Al-Karkh District, Baghdad. The study period was from Oct. 2017 till Jan. 2019 and included 847 male students aged 15–18 years old. A convenient non-probability sampling within one of the two districts in Baghdad was selected to be place of study. Descriptive, chi-square test of significance, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis of data was carried out for identifying risk factors associated with hookah smoking among high school adolescence.Results The overall prevalence of hookah smoking among high school male students was high (46.1%). More than two-thirds (70.6%) of them think that hookah smoking is acceptable socially more than cigarette smoking. Hearing first about it from friends, the media and presence of a café for hookah near residence were found to be significantly associated (p > 0.05) with hookah smoking among students. Similarly, having friends surrounding students who used hookah were found to be significantly associated with hookah smoking among students. Among hookah smokers, they were less likely to say it is forbidden in Islam and more likely to say it is allowed in Islam than non-hookah users.Conclusions Hookah smoking is high among high school students and becoming a socially acceptable behavior. Social and religious factors play a role in that. Family members, relatives and peers have an important role in prevention of hookah smoking among these students. Teenage students need to be educated about hookah effects on their health.
Body mass index and its dose-response relationship with the incidence and risk of tuberculosis, a population-based cohort study
Authors: Chen Jinou , Zha Shun , Hou Jinglong , Lu Kunyun , Qiu Yubing , Yang Rui , Li Ling , Yang Yunbin , Xu Lin 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background

Many pieces of evidence presented the body mass index (BMI) was inversely associated with tuberculosis (TB). BMI was radically changed during the past decades in China. The aim of the study was to evaluate the contemporary relationship between BMI and tuberculosis incident.
Methods

A population-based prospective cohort included 26 022 community participants was conducted. Three rounds of tuberculosis screening were implemented between June 2013 and December 2015. The main exposure was defined as baseline BMI, and was categorized into 3 levels: underweight (< 18.5 kg/m2), normal (18.5 to 24.0 kg/m2), overweight or obese (≥ 24.0 kg/m2). The active tuberculosis incident in the second or third round screening was the study outcome. The dose-response relationship between BMI and tuberculosis incidence as well as tuberculosis risk were analyzed.
Results

During the followed up of 2.25 years, 43 cases developed tuberculosis in 44 574.4 person-years. The log-linear dose-response relationship between BMI and tuberculosis incidence was fitted (adjusted R2 = 0.95). In multivariable Cox proportional regression, overweight and obese was associated with a lower risk of incident tuberculosis compared with normal weight (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.14–0.82, p < 0.01), the inverse dose-response association between BMI and tuberculosis risk was characterized by restricted cubic spline. In subgroups analysis, the risk of tuberculosis reduced 78% in overweight or obese (aHR, 0.22; 95% CI 0.05–0.97, p = 0.05) and 64% (aHR, 0.36; 95% CI 0.12-1.00, p = 0.05) compared with normal weight among female and elderly.
Conclusion

Our study revealed that high BMI was a protective factor in tuberculosis development. Precise dose-response relationship between BMI and the incident tuberculosis, as well as the risk of tuberculosis progression in contemporary Chinese adulthood, will benefit to disease control policy.
Is postoperative chemotherapy necessary for resected esophageal carcinoma after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cheng Liang , Gao Wei , Yang Hao , Zhou Yu , Zhao Yongsheng , Fu Maoyong 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background Both neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) and postoperative chemotherapy (PT) are crucial treatments for esophageal carcinoma (EC). However, it is not clear whether PT is required for EC treatment after NCRT. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at clarifying the necessity of PT for resected EC after NCRT.Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, and The Cochrane Library databases for relevant studies published up to March 2020, that have compared PT and non-PT for resected EC after NCRT (NCRT + PT vs. NCRT). The primary outcome of this study was overall survival (OS). Hazard risk ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were employed to explore heterogeneity, and the random effect model was used to merge the meta-analysis data, regardless of whether the heterogeneity was large or small.Results This study included seven retrospective cohorts, with more than 10720 patients. Most of the patients had esophageal adenocarcinomas. The Meta-analysis showed that NCRT followed by PT increased the patient OS (HR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.74–0.85, P < 0.001). However, further subgroup analysis showed that NCRT + PT might not improve the OS of resected EC patients with a negative lymph node status (HR = 0.82, 95% CI 0.67–1.01, P = 0.124). Further, we showed that NCRT with PT improved the survival of EC patients with a positive lymph node status who underwent resection (HR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.70–0.86, P < 0.001).Conclusion PT may improve the survival of lymph node-positive EC patients previously treated by NCRT. This conclusion may be more applicable to EAC patients treated with NCRT at the ypN + stage.
The Differentiation of Stem/Progenitor Cells Derived from the Cochlear Sensory Epithelium into Hair Cells Requires a Specific Spatial Supporting Structure of p27kip1-Positive Cells
Authors: Wang Xianren , Zhang Xuemei , Jiang Di , Liu Danqing , Jiang Hongyan 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Cochlear sensory epithelium-derived progenitor cells initially give rise to compact solid/round spheres. These compact solid/round spheres then gradually convert into irregular and partially hollow spheres, which then ultimately transform into large hollow spheres. The purpose of this study was to observe the differentiation of cochlear sensory epithelium-derived progenitor cells into spheres, and determine factors necessary for their development into hair cells.Methods: Cochlear epithelial sheets from postnatal day 1 C57BL/6 mice were dissociated and sphere cells were cultured. The morphological changes of the spheres were observed, and the different types of sphere cells were examined for their ability to differentiate into hair cell-like cells.Results: Solid spheres formed first, and then gradually transformed into hollow spheres over approximately 260 hours. Adherent culture and Transwell culture assays, and immunohistochemistry staining revealed that neither solid nor hollow sphere cells alone could differentiate into mature hair cells. Solid sphere cells, however, were able to differentiate into mature hair cells when co-cultured with p27kip1-positive hollow sphere cells. Direct contact of the cells was necessary for the differentiation of the solid sphere cells into mature hair cell-like cells.Conclusions: Cochlear sensory epithelium-derived progenitor cells require specific conditions to differentiate into mature hair cells.
Aberrant Within- and Between-Network Connectivity in Chemotherapy Treated Breast Cancer Patients: A Longitudinal Resting State Functional MRI Study
Authors: Feng Yun , Wang Yun Fei , Zheng Li Juan , Shi Zhao , Huang Wei , Zhang Long Jiang 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background

Previous studies have found abnormal structural and functional brain alterations in breast cancer survivors undergoing chemotherapy. However, the network-level brain changes following chemotherapy remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the dynamic changes of large-scale intra- and inter- network functional connectivity in chemotherapy-treated breast cancer patients.

Methods

Eighteen breast cancer patients were evaluated with resting state functional MRI (rs-fMRI), neuropsychological tests and blood examination before postoperative chemotherapy (t0), one week after completing chemotherapy (t1) and six months after completing chemotherapy (t2). Nineteen age- and education level-matched healthy controls (HC) were also recruited. Independent component analysis (ICA) was performed to assess network component using rs-fMRI data. The functional network changes were then correlated with cognitive assessment scores and blood biochemical indexes.

Results

One-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed significantly changed within-network functional connectivity, which mainly located in the default mode network (DMN), frontoparietal network, visual network and self-referential network. Post-hoc test showed that most within-network functional connectivity decreased one week after chemotherapy and increased six months after chemotherapy. As for the between-network functional connectivity, the posterior DMN-SMN connectivity showed the same tendency. These within- and between-network functional connectivity changes were associated with blood biochemical indexes and cognitive assessment scores.

Conclusions

These results indicated that network-level connectivity alterations may serve as a potential biomarker of chemotherapy related cognitive impairment, providing insights for further functional recovery treatment.
Problem-Based Learning in comparison with Lecture-Based Learning in post-graduation Medical short course among Medical Interns in Al Ahsa Saudi Arabia, Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Joher Abdullatif Mohammed Al , Jasim Abdullah Mohammed Al , Huwail Abdullah Sami Al , Jamaan Mohammed a Al 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: The phenomenal development in medical practice in the last years was coincided with medical education advancement. Study aims to compare between problem-based learning and lecture-based learning in post-graduation medical short course among medical interns. Methods: A randomized blinded experimental study was conducted among medical interns at King Abdulaziz Hospital in Al Ahsa in July 2019. A medical subject of “Adolescent health” was explained using problem-based learning method for intervention group and lecture-based learning for comparison group. A validated questionnaire for measuring the attitude of the educational method and pre-posttest multiple-choices questions quizzes were used for both groups. Nor study investigator or participants were aware of the process of randomization and groups’ assignment. Study used the Statistical Package for Social Sciences for data analysis. Results: Total number of medical interns who participated in the study was 14 in every group. Problem-based learning interns noticed that it was stimulating (85.71%), ease (35.71%), useful (71.43%), powering (92.86%) and enlightening (71.43%). However, there was a statistical difference between pre and post scores in lecture-based learning group ( p < 0.001). Mean posttest score of the problem-based learning group was (Mean + SD =13.85 + 3.08) compared to (Mean + SD =16.64 + 1.64) in the lecture-based learning group ( p = 0.01). Also, mean post-pretest score was (Mean + SD =1.35 + 2.76) in the problem-based learning and (Mean + SD =4.21 + 2.42) in the lecture-based learning group (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Lecture-based learning is more effective than problem-based learning in short duration medical courses for post-graduate education medical interns.
A Clinical Multi-center Study of Pregnant Women with COVID-19 in Hubei, China
Authors: Liao Shujie , Wang R. , Wu D. , Fang D. , Dong D. , Tao Z. , Yang H. , Zeng W. , Peng Q. , Peng J. , Wu Y. , Chen S. , Lin X. , Xiong G. , Ma X. , You A. , Lu L. , Dai W. , Hu C. , Zheng J. , Xiao F. , Wang Y. , He W. , Li H. , Xing H. , Huang Y. , Sun D. , Cheng P. , Jin H. , Zhang Z. , Su D. , Huang R. , Zhang C. , Liu X. , Zhang Z. , Bi Y. , Wang L. , Hu X. , Shen Q. , Zhao L. , Fu C. , Dai S. , Du R. , Wang L. , Wu J. , Wang S. , Lv D. , Long R. , Peng J. , Qian C. , Pan Wei , Zhao Y. , Feng L. , Deng D. , Zhang W. 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread to more than 200 countries. Thus far, reports regarding multi-center data from throughout gestation in women with COVID-19 and newborn outcomes are scarce.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data from 92 pregnant women with COVID-19 (PW-COVID-19) and their 78 newborns from 27 hospitals in 12 regions of Hubei, China. The demographic, epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, and therapeutic data and pregnancy, perinatal, and neonatal outcomes were analyzed. Follow-up was censored until April 7, 2020.Findings: Median maternal age was 31.0 years (IQR 28·0-33·0), with nine patients in the first trimester, five in the second trimester, and 78 in the third trimester. None of the patients died, and most (92·4%) recovered and were discharged. Seventy-five deliveries (including three sets of twins) comprised 66 cesarean sections and nine vaginal deliveries, with 21 preterm and 57 full-term infants. Seventeen live births had radiological findings of pulmonary infection. One newborn tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid, and three newborns were viral antibody-positive: two IgG (+) and IgM (-), and one IgG (+) and IgM (+). The median suspected duration of virus exposure was 7 days (IQR 0 to 27).Interpretation: Compared to the pregnant women with other viral infections, such as SARS, MERS, and Zika virus infection, PW-COVID-19 had similar manifestations and relatively better outcomes. The termination time and delivery mode in PW-COVID-19 should be evaluated based on both the maternal and fetal situations. The possibility of maternal-to-fetal transmission of SARS-CoV-2 requires further investigation.Authors Shujie Liao and Renjie Wang contributed equally to this work.
Inflammatory Biomarkers May Predict Poor Outcome in Patients with Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency.
Authors: Song Siying , Lan Duo , Wu Xiao qin , Ding Yu chuan , Ji Xun ming , Meng Ran 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background and purpose Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) related inflammatory process is still unclear. This study aimed to evaluate peripheral inflammatory biomarkers in both intracranial CCSVI and the extracranial CCSVI group, as well as the relationship between the inflammatory state and prognosis of CCSVI.Methods Patients with CCSVI were included from July 2017 to July 2019, divided into three groups by location of stenosis. The inflammatory biomarker assay included neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin- 6 (IL-6)) and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). The clinical outcome was assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) score. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify significant prognostic factors for poor outcome. Then a nomogram based on multivariate regression analysis was established.Results In total, 248 consecutive patients were enrolled, 102 males and 146 females, with an average age of 57.85 ± 12.28 years. Patients with cerebral venous sinus stenosis (CVSS) were more likely to be younger age and present headaches and severe papilledema. Higher levels of NLR, RDW, and CRP were also observed in the CVSS group. In multivariate analysis, NLR, PLR, and IL-6 became the independent prognostic factors for predicting the poor outcome of CCSVI.Conclusions The clinical presentations and the increased levels of NLR, PLR, and CRP may be more remarkable in the group with CVSS-related CCSVI than that with internal jugular venous stenosis (IJVS)-related CCSVI. The pro-inflammatory state may relate to CCSVI. An elevated level of NLR, PLR, and IL-6 played a negative role in the prognosis of CCSVI.