bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification and characteristics of a novel cecropin from the armyworm, Mythimna separata
Authors: Lian Kaiqi , Zhang Mingliang , Liang Xiuli , Zhou Lingling , Shi Zhiqi , Tang Yajie , Wang Xueping , Song Yuwei , Zhang Yuanchen 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
The recent emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria has increased the need to develop effective alternatives to antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides have been considered as a promising product with several advantages.

Results
In this present study, we identified a novel cecropin from the armyworm, Mythimna separata (armyworm cecropin 1, AC-1) by transcriptome sequencing and multi-sequence alignment analysis. The AC-1 precursor comprised 63 amino acid residues, containing a conserved cleavage site of the signal peptide, Ala23-Pro24, while the mature AC-1 included 39 amino acid residues. Chemically synthesized AC-1 exhibited low hemolytic activity against chicken red blood cells, low cytotoxicity against swine testis cells, and effective antimicrobial activity against Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Its antimicrobial activity against Salmonella remained after incubation for 1 h at 100 °C or in 250 mM NaCl, KCl, or MgCl2 solution, implying good thermal- and salt-resistant stabilities. The bactericidal effect of AC-1 on E. coli gradually increased with increasing AC-1 concentration, resulting in deformation, severe edema, cytolysis, cell membrane damage, and reducing intracellular electron density. Additionally, recombinant AC-1 protein expressed in E. coli was digested by enterokinase protease to obtain AC-1, which showed similar antimicrobial activity against E. coli to chemically synthesized AC-1.

Conclusions
This study identified a novel antimicrobial peptide that may represent a potential alternative to antibiotics.
Effects of anesthetic method on inflammatory response in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Hwang Won Jung , Joo Min A. , Joo Jin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
The pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) involves degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, which is influenced by innate and adaptive immunity. IL-17 is a characteristic cytokine secreted by Th17 cells, which acts as a powerful stimulator of neutrophil migration and infiltration and promotes the secretion of inflammatory cytokines. General anesthesia and surgical stress induce immune and inflammatory responses that activate the immunosuppressive mechanism in the perioperative period. The present study investigated changes in levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-17, IL-1β, and TNF-α, in patients with PD undergoing general anesthesia with inhalational anesthetics or TIVA.

Methods
Adult patients, aged 40–75 years, scheduled for cerebral stimulator implantation were enrolled. Upon arrival at the operating theater, patients were allocated to the inhalational (I) or TIVA (T) group using block randomization. In group I, anesthesia was induced by tracheal intubation 1–2 min after intravenous administration of propofol (1–2 mg/kg) and rocuronium (0.6–1 mg/kg). Thereafter, anesthesia was maintained with 1–2 vol% sevoflurane, 0.01–0.2 μg/kg/min remifentanil, and O2/air (FiO2 0.4). In group T, propofol (3–6 μg/mL), remifentanil (2–6 ng/mL), and rocuronium (0.6–1 mg/kg) were administered using target controlled infusion (TCI) for induction of anesthesia. Blood samples were obtained preoperatively (T0), 2 h after induction of anesthesia (T1), and 24 h after surgery (T2). IL-17, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels were evaluated by ELISA.

Results
Serum levels of IL-17 were elevated at T2 in group I compared to group T but the difference was not statistically significant. IL-1β tended to be greater in group I compared to group T, but the differences were not significant. TNF-α was slightly higher at all time points in group T and showed a tendency to increase at T2 in both groups, but this was not statistically significant.

Conclusions
TIVA may be useful for inhibiting neuroinflammation by inhibiting the increase in serum levels of IL-17 24 h after implantation surgery. Serum IL-17 level may be used as a biomarker for PD progression.

Trial registration
Clinical Research Information Service of Korea National Institute of Health (CRIS) Identification number: KCT0002061. Registered 25 October 2019 - Retrospectively registered, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/search_result_st01.jsp?seq=15125
Navigating complexity of child abuse through intuition and evidence-based guidelines: a mix-methods study among child and youth healthcare practitioners
Authors: Erisman Jetske C. , de Sabbata Kevin , Zuiderent-Jerak Teun , Syurina Elena V. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Dutch child and youth health care (CYHC) practitioners monitor and assess the well-being of children. One of their main concerns is identifying cases of child abuse, which is an arduous and sensitive task. In these contexts, CYHC-practitioners use both evidence-based guidelines aimed at increasing the quality of care through rationalised decision-making, and intuition. These two practices are seen as being at odds with each other, yet empirical research has shown that both are necessary in healthcare. This study aims to unravel how intuition is perceived and used by Dutch CYHC-practitioners when identifying and working with cases of child abuse, and how this relates to their evidence-based guidelines.

Methods
A sequential exploratory mixed-methods design: in-depth semi-structured interviews with CYHC-physicians focused on perceptions on intuition, which were followed by a survey amongst CYHC-practitioners on the recognition and use of the concept.

Results
The majority of CYHC-practitioners recognise and use intuition in their daily work, stating that it is necessary in their profession. CYHC-practitioners use intuition to 1) sense that something is ‘off’, 2) differentiate between ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’, 3) assess risks, 4) weigh secondary information and 5) communicate with parents. At the same time, they warn of its dangers, as it may lead to ‘tunnel vision’ and false accusations.

Conclusion
Intuition is experienced as an integral part of the work of CYHC-practitioners. It is understood as particularly useful in cases of child abuse, which are inherently complex, as signs and evidence of abuse are often hidden, subtle and unique in each case. CYHC-practitioners use intuition to manage and navigate this complexity. There is an opportunity for guidelines to support reflection and intuition as a ‘good care’ practice.
Risky sexual behaviours among women of reproductive age in a high HIV burdened township in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Hlongwa Mbuzeleni , Peltzer Karl , Hlongwana Khumbulani 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Despite several intervention programmes in South Africa, risky sexual behaviours among women of reproductive age remain a public health concern, making them vulnerable to unintended pregnancies and/or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictors of risky sexual behaviours among women of reproductive age in a high HIV-burden township in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Methods
In a cross-sectional study, 471 women of reproductive age (18–49 years, mean: 25.83) in 10 public health clinics in Umlazi Township, responded to a structured questionnaire. Data were coded, entered into Epi Data Manager and exported to Stata for analysis. A Pearson Chi-square tests and logistic regression models (bivariate and multivariate) were employed to assess the level of the association between the predictor and outcome variables and the p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results
More than half (51.80%) of the women were aged 18–24 years and only a handful (18.26%) had a tertiary qualification. The majority were single (88.96%) and the unemployed accounted for 53.50%. This study found that women who had talked about condoms with their partner in the past 12 months were more likely (p = < 0.0001) to have used condoms during their last sexual intercourse. Older women (p = 0.035) were more likely to have used a condom at last sex, compared to younger women. However, women who were exposed to physical partner violence (hitting and/or slapping), those who had been diagnosed with HIV and those whose sexual partners were diagnosed with HIV, did not show a significant association with condom use at last sex.

Conclusion
Exposure to physical partner violence and poor partner discussions about condoms are key deterrents to condom usage. Holistic interventions are required in order to address the risky behaviours, and consequently reduce sexually transmitted infections and/or unintended pregnancies.
Protocol and establishment of a Queensland renal biopsy registry in Australia
Authors: Burke Joseph Patrick , Aljishi Manaf , Francis Leo , Hoy Wendy , Divi Dakshinamurthy , Cherian Roy , Frazier Jeremy , Gobe Glenda , Gois Pedro , Govindarajulu Sridevi , Huynh Sonny , Jesudason Shilpanjali , John George , Madhan Krishan , Mallett Andrew , Manickam Valli , Mutatiri Clyson , Ng Shu-Kay , Thet Zaw , Trnka Peter , Venuthurupalli Sree Krishna , Ranganathan Dwarakanathan 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Renal biopsy is often required to obtain information for diagnosis, management and prognosis of kidney disease that can be broadly classified into acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). The most common conditions identified on renal biopsy are glomerulonephritis and tubulo-interstitial disorders. There is a paucity of information on management strategies and therapeutic outcomes in AKI and CKD patients. A renal biopsy registry will provide information on biopsy-proven kidney disorders to improve disease understanding and tracking, healthcare planning, patient care and outcomes.

Methods
A registry of patients, that includes biopsy-proven kidney disease, was established through the collaboration of nephrologists from Queensland Hospital and Health Services and pathologists from Pathology Queensland services. The registry is in keeping with directions of the Advancing Kidney Care 2026 Collaborative, established in September 2018 as a Queensland Health initiative. Phase 1 of the registry entailed retrospective acquisition of data from all adult native kidney biopsies performed in Queensland, Australia, from 2002 to 2018. Data were also linked with the existing CKD.QLD patient registry. From 2019 onwards, phase 2 of the registry involves prospective collection of all incident consenting patients referred to Queensland public hospitals and having a renal biopsy. Annual reports on patient outcomes will be generated and disseminated.

Discussion
Establishment of the Queensland Renal Biopsy Registry (QRBR) aims to provide a profile of patients with biopsy-proven kidney disease that will lead to better understanding of clinico-pathological association and facilitate future research. It is expected to improve patient care and outcomes.
Topical citicoline and vitamin B12 versus placebo in the treatment of diabetes-related corneal nerve damage: a randomized double-blind controlled trial
Authors: Fogagnolo Paolo , Melardi Ettore , Tranchina Laura , Rossetti Luca 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
To evaluate the effects of topical citicoline and vitamin B12 (Cit-B12: OMK2, Omikron Italia srl, Italy) on corneal innervation of patients with diabetic neuropathy.

Methods
This prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study included 30 patients randomised with a 2:1 ratio to Cit-B12 or placebo 3 times daily for 18 months. At baseline and at months 4, 8, 12, 18 patients underwent the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire (OSDI), tear break-up time, evaluation of corneal and conjunctival staining, Schirmer I test, Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry, and confocal biomicroscopy of corneal sub-basal plexus (SBP). Fiber lenght density (FLD) was calculated using NeuronJ and expressed in mm/mm2. Raw data and differences from baseline were analysed in the two groups.

Results
29/30 patients concluded the study. The two groups had similar FLD at baseline; it progressively improved up to month 18 in both groups (Cit-B12, p < 0.0001; controls, < 0.0001–0.03); improvement at month 18 vs baseline was higher in Cit-B12 than placebo (33% vs 15%, p = 0.04). A progressive amelioration of corneal sensitivity (baseline, 28 ± 18 mm; month 18, 52 ± 10 mm, p < 0.0001), conjunctival staining (P = 0.04) and OSDI questionnaire (P = 0.05) were shown on Cit-B12 group alone. Both treatments were well tolerated and adherence during the study was high.

Conclusions
Cit-B12 ameliorated both morphology and function of corneal nerves in patients with diabetes, thus suggesting a neuroregenerative effect.

Trial registration
Trial registration NCT03906513, retrospectively registered on 08 April 2019.
INTRABEAM intraoperative radiotherapy combined with portal vein infusion chemotherapy for treating hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus
Authors: Song Xiaodong , He Yong , Liang Huihong , Han Menling , Shao Zili 
Published: August 2020

AbstractBackgroundPortal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) is common in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent studies indicate that more aggressive treatments, including surgical resection or locoregional treatment, may benefit selected HCC patients with PVTT. External radiation therapy and infusion chemotherapy were found to achieve good outcomes; however, the use of low-energy x-ray radiation system (INTRABEAM), intraoperative radiation therapy, and portal vein infusion chemotherapy for PVTT has not been reported.Case summaryWe present a case of HCC with PVTT. The patient underwent hemihepatectomy and thrombectomy along with intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) using a portable INTRABEAM radiation system. Subsequently, to treat PVTT, portal vein infusion chemotherapy with FOLFOX (leucovorin [Folinic acid], fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin) regimen was administered. There were no obvious post-operative complications. After 20 months follow-up period, no obvious tumor recurrence had been observed, and PVTT gradually disappeared completely.ConclusionsIORT using the INTRABEAM radiation system combined with portal vein infusion chemotherapy is promising for select patients with PVTT.
Clinical efficacy of various anti-hypertensive regimens in hypertensive women of Punjab; a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Umair Muhammad , Ahmad Mobasher , Saeed Hamid , Saleem Zikria , Tauqeer Fatima 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Gender wise differences exist in anti-hypertensive treatment outcomes, yet still un-explored in Pakistan. Thus, we aimed to estimate the clinical efficacy of four different anti-hypertensive regimens in hypertensive women of Punjab, Pakistan.

Methods
A longitudinal cohort study of 12 months duration was conducted by enrolling 300 hypertensive women on four anti-hypertensive regimens. Chi-square for significance, logistic regression for association and multilevel regression for changes in outcomes were used.

Results
Majority of subjects were < 60 years of age, weighing > 65 Kg, having family history, married and hailing from urban areas, with diabetes as the most common comorbidity. Hypertension, adjusted for covariates, was significantly associated with salt intake (OR:2.27, p <  0.01) and physical activity (OR;2.16, p <  0.01). High-risk subjects, compared to low-risk, were consuming more fat (OR;1.54), meat (OR; 2), salt (OR; 2.48) and even vegetables/fruits (OR;3.43). Compared to baseline, the maximum reduction in BP was observed with combination therapy, N-GITS+LTN + HCT (SBP; − 50.17, p <  0.01, DBP; − 16.55, p <  0.01), followed by N-GITS alone (SBP; − 28.89, p <  0.01, DBP; − 12.21, p <  0.01). Compared to baseline, adjusted for treatment effects, significant reductions in SBP (low-risk; − 17.92, p <  0.01 high-risk; − 19.48, p <  0.01) and DBP (low-risk; − 17.92, p <  0.01, high-risk; − 19.48, p <  0.01) were observed in low and high risk patients. Among all four cohorts, orthostatic hypotension and edema were common in N-GITS+LTN + HCT only, but variable effects were observed on biochemical values; urea, BSR and creatinine.

Conclusion
In conclusion, compared to a single agent, combination therapy conferred improved BP controls followed by N-GITS alone in low and high risk women with manageable side effects.
Myricetin bioactive effects: moving from preclinical evidence to potential clinical applications
Authors: Taheri Yasaman , Suleria Hafiz Ansar Rasul , Martins Natália , Sytar Oksana , Beyatli Ahmet , Yeskaliyeva Balakyz , Seitimova Gulnaz , Salehi Bahare , Semwal Prabhakar , Painuli Sakshi , Kumar Anuj , Azzini Elena , Martorell Miquel , Setzer William N. , Maroyi Alfred , Sharifi-Rad Javad 
Published: August 2020

AbstractSeveral flavonoids have been recognized as nutraceuticals, and myricetin is a good example. Myricetin is commonly found in plants and their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities is well demonstrated. One of its beneficial biological effects is the neuroprotective activity, showing preclinical activities on Alzheimer, Parkinson, and Huntington diseases, and even in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Also, myricetin has revealed other biological activities, among them as antidiabetic, anticancer, immunomodulatory, cardiovascular, analgesic and antihypertensive. However, few clinical trials have been performed using myricetin as nutraceutical. Thus, this review provides new insights on myricetin preclinical pharmacological activities, and role in selected clinical trials.
Reducing veterans’ risk for suicidal behaviors: a qualitative study to inform development of the RECLAIM health promotion program
Authors: Shue Sarah , Brosmer Jayme , Matthias Marianne S. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
In an effort to reduce the high rate of suicide among post-9/11 veterans, a collaborative team within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has developed a holistic community-based health promotion program designed to facilitate social and self-connectedness. The purpose of this study was to elicit veteran and stakeholder feedback to prepare the program for piloting and implementation.

Methods
Focus groups and interviews were conducted with post-9/11 veterans and veteran stakeholders (e.g., VA clinicians) to elicit feedback regarding the health promotion program. Focus groups and interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Qualitative thematic analysis identified key themes emerging from the focus groups and interviews.

Results
Seven focus groups (3 Veteran groups, 4 stakeholder groups) and 3 interviews (2 Veterans, 1 stakeholder) were conducted with 41 participants (14 veterans, 27 stakeholders). Overall, participants had a positive perception of the program. Thematic analysis revealed shared perspectives that provided insight into 1) enhancing program recruitment and retention, 2) the perceived ability of a health promotion program to provide more holistic, veteran-centered care, and 3) using health promotion programs to help veterans establish structure in their daily lives.

Conclusions
Findings indicated an overall acceptance of the program, and participants’ perspectives on how to reduce barriers and enhance facilitators can inform the development of a larger-scale health promotion program that can be tested through future research. While discussion questions were specifically focused on the program in this study, findings can be considered more broadly for the design and implementation of related programs to effectively improve the health and wellness of post-9/11 veterans.
Association between multi-site atherosclerotic plaques and systemic arteriosclerosis: results from the BEST study (Beijing Vascular Disease Patients Evaluation Study)
Authors: Liu Huan , Liu Jinbo , Huang Wei , Zhao Hongwei , Zhao Na , Wang Hongyu 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Arteriosclerosis can be reflected in various aspect of the artery, including atherosclerotic plaque formation or stiffening on the arterial wall. Both arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are important and closely associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between systemic arteriosclerosis and multi-site atherosclerotic plaques.

Methods
The study was designed as an observational cross-sectional study. A total of 1178 participants (mean age 67.4 years; 52.2% male) enrolled into the observational study from 2010 to 2017. Systemic arteriosclerosis was assessed by carotid femoral artery pulse wave velocity (CF-PWV) and multi-site atherosclerotic plaques (MAP, > = 2 of the below sites) were reflected in the carotid or subclavian artery, abdominal aorta and lower extremities arteries using ultrasound equipment. The associations were assessed by multivariable logistic regression.

Results
The prevalence of CF-PWV > 12 m/s and MAP were 40.2% and 74.4%. Atherosclerotic plaques in 3 sites were more common in male compared with that in female (48.9% versus 36.9%, p < 0.05). All CVD factors were worse in participants with MAP than that with <=1 site. Participants with CF-PWV > 12 m/s corresponded to a mean 82% probability of MAP with age and sex-adjusted. Patients with peripheral artery disease showed the highest odds ratio (OR) (3.88) for MAP, followed by smoking (2.485), CF-PWV > 12 m/s (2.25), dyslipidemia (1.89), male (1.84), stroke (1.64), hypoglycemic agents (1.56) and age (1.09) (all p < 0.001).

Conclusions
MAP was highly prevalent in this cohort, with male showing a higher prevalence than female. Higher systemic arteriosclerosis was independently associated with MAP, which indicating the supplementary value of arteriosclerosis for the earlier identification and intervention on MAP.

Trial registration
Clinical Trial, URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT02569268.