bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Social Norm-based Intervention with Observable Behaviour on Physical Activity among Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Jia Jia , Nadkarni Nivedita Vikas , Teo Irene , Ozdemir Semra 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: The rising prevalence of childhood obesity in developing and developed countries poses a major public health challenge to policy makers and an effective strategy to promote physical activity among adolescents is warranted. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of providing descriptive norms messages with personal identification in promoting physical activity among adolescents by measuring step counts via a randomized controlled trial (NCT03081013). Methods: A total of 311 participants aged 13-16 were randomized into two study arms (Onymous and Anonymous Arms). Each arm consisted of 13 groups of 12 participants. During the trial, participants received weekly short message service (SMS) about their past week’s physical activity performance Participants in the Anonymous Arm received information about step counts of group members ranked from highest to lowest. Participants in the Onymous Arm received the same information with the group members’ full names. Participants’ quality of life, depression, and physical activity social support, self-efficacy and enjoyment before and after the intervention were also evaluated. This study adheres to the CONSORT guidelines.Results: The number of steps was not higher when descriptive norm message was onymous compared to when it was anonymous. Scores in quality of life, depression, social support, self-efficacy, and enjoyment of physical activity were not significantly different between both arms (p>0.05).Conclusions: Our findings indicated that the effect of providing descriptive norms messages containing personal identification on physical activity promotion was not evident in the main analysis. Future studies may consider using a more relevant reference group to use social norms as a tool to increase physical activity among adolescents.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov - NCT03081013. Registered 15 Mar 2017-Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03081013
Connecting METTL3 and intratumoural CD33+ MDSCs in predicting clinical outcome in cervical cancer
Authors: Ni Huan-he , Zhang Lin , Huang He , Dai Shu-qin , Li Jiang 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) is a member of the m6A methyltransferase family and acts as an oncogene in cancers. Recent studies suggest that host innate immunity is regulated by the enzymes controlling m6A epitranscriptomic changes. Here, we aim to explore the associations between the levels of METTL3 and CD33+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in tumour tissues and the survival of patients with cervical cancer (CC).Methods: Paraffin tumour specimens from 197 CC patients were collected. The expression levels of METTL3 and CD33 were measured by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. The clinical associations of the IHC variants were analysed by Pearson's or Spearman's chi-square tests. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. Hazard ratios (HRs) and independent significance were obtained via Cox proportional hazards models for multivariate analyses. METTL3 in CD33+ cells or CC-derived cells was knocked down by METTL3-specific siRNA, and MDSC induction in vitro was performed in a co-culture system in the presence of METTL3-siRNA and METTL3-knockdown-CC-derived cells compared with that of the corresponding controls.Results: We found that tumour tissues displayed increased levels of METTL3 and CD33+ MDSCs compared with tumour-adjacent tissues from the same CC patients. Importantly, METTL3 expression was positively related to the density of CD33+ cells in tumour tissues (P = 0.011). We further found that the direct CD33+CD11b+HLA-DR- MDSC induction and tumour-derived MDSC induction in vitro were decreased in the absence of METTL3. The level of METTL3 in tumour microenvironments was significantly related to advanced tumour stage. The levels of METTL3 and CD33+ MDSCs in tumour tissues were notably associated with reduced DFS or OS. Cox model analysis revealed that the level of METTL3 in tumour cells was an independent factor for patient survival, specifically for DFS (HR = 3.157, P = 0.022) and OS (HR = 3.271, P = 0.012), while the CD33+ MDSC number was an independent predictor for DFS (HR: 3.958, P = 0.031). Interestingly, in patients with advanced-disease stages (II-IV), METTL3 in tumour cells was an independent factor for DFS (HR = 6.725, P= 0.010) and OS (HR = 5.140, P= 0.021), while CD33+ MDSC density was an independent factor for OS (HR = 8.802, P = 0.037).Conclusion: Our findings suggest that CD33+ MDSC expansion is linked to high levels of METTL3 and that METTL3 and CD33+ MDSCs are independent prognostic factors in CC.
How nursing students’ placement preferences and perceptions of community care develop in a more ‘community-oriented’ curriculum: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Iersel Margriet van , Latour Corine H.M. , Rijn Marjon van , de Vos Rien , Kirschner Paul A. , Reimer Wilma Scholte op 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Extramuralisation in healthcare has influenced medical and nursing curricula internationally with the incorporation of themes related to primary/ community care. Despite this, students do not easily change their career preferences. The hospital is still favourite, leading to labour market shortages in extramural care. This study investigates how baccalaureate nursing students’ perceptions of community care and placement preferences develop over time in a more'community-care-oriented' curriculum, to gain insights on which curriculum elements potentially influence career choices.Methods: A nursing student cohort of a University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands (n = 273) underwent a new four-year curriculum containing extended elements of community care. The primary outcome was assessed with the Scale on Community Care Perceptions (SCOPE). Data were collected each year of study. Descriptive statistics were used to investigate students’ placement preferences and perceptions, and linear mixed model techniques (LMMs) for measuring how students’ perceptions develop over time. Patterns of placement preferences at individual level were visualised. Results: Students’ perceptions of community care, as measured with SCOPE, show a slight decrease between year 1 and 4, while items mutually differ substantially. In contrast, the preference of community care for a placement increases from 2.6% in year 1 tot 8.2% in year 4. The hospital is favourite in year 1 (79.8%), and remains most popular. At individual level, students often change placement preferences, although a preference for the hospital is more consistent. The LMMs indicates that, at the four time-points, the estimated marginal means of students’ perceptions fluctuate between 6 and 7 (range 1-10). A placement in community care did not positively influence students’ perceptions, and an intensive one week theoretical programme was only temporarily influential. Conclusions: Although interest for placement in community care increased substantially, it was not clear which curriculum elements stimulated this, nor did the curriculum positively influence students’ perceptions. As most students do not look forward to the high responsibility of the field, other curricula with educational tracks for more mature students/ nurses with a vocational training may be an alternative contribution to solving the labour market problems in community care.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of Class III Peroxidases in Betula pendula
Authors: Cai Kewei , Chen Song , Liu Yi , Zhao Xiyang , Chen Su 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Class III peroxidases (POD) proteins are widely present in the plant kingdom that are involved in a broad range of physiological processes including stress responses and lignin polymerization throughout the plant life cycle. However, little is known about the POD genes in Betula pendula , although it has been characterized in Arabidopsis , rice and maize. The POD genes remain to be determined in Betula pendula . Results : A total of 90 nonredundant POD genes were identified in Betula pendula . (designated BpPODs ). These POD genes were divided into twelve groups based on their phylogenetic relationships. The BpPODs are unevenly distributed on the 14 chromosomes. In addition, some BpPOD genes were located sequentially in tandem on chromosomes, inferred that tandem duplication contributes to the expansion of the POD genes family in Betula pendula . Analysis of the distribution of conserved domains of BpPOD proteins showed that all these proteins contain highly conserved motifs. We also investigated their expression patterns in different tissues, the results show that some BpPOD genes might play significant roles in root, xylem, leaf and flower. Furthermore, under low temperature conditions, some BpPOD genes showed different expression patterns at different times. Conclusions: Comprehensive study of the POD genes suggests that their functional diversity during Betula pendula growth and development. Our findings provide a basis for further functional analysis on POD genes family in Betula pendula .
Remarkable metabolic reorganization and altered metabolic requirements in frog metamorphic climax
Authors: Zhu Wei , Chang Liming , Zhao Tian , Wang Bin , Jiang Jianping 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background Metamorphic climax is the crucial stage of amphibian metamorphosis responsible for the morphological and functional changes necessary for transition to a terrestrial habitat. This developmental period is sensitive to environmental changes and pollution. Understanding its metabolic basis and requirements is significant for ecological and toxicological research. Rana omeimontis tadpoles are a useful model for investigating this stage as their liver is involved in both metabolic regulation and fat storage. Results We used a combined approach of transcriptomics and metabolomics to study the metabolic reorganization during natural and T3-driven metamorphic climax in the liver and tail of Rana omeimontis tadpoles. The metabolic flux from the apoptotic tail replaced hepatic fat storage as metabolic fuel, resulting in increased hepatic amino acid and fat levels. In the liver, amino acid catabolism (transamination and urea cycle) was upregulated along with energy metabolism (TCA cycle and oxidative phosphorylation), while the carbohydrate and lipid catabolism (glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and β-oxidation) decreased. The hepatic glycogen phosphorylation and gluconeogenesis were upregulated, and the carbohydrate flux was used for synthesis of glycan units (e.g., UDP-glucuronate). In the tail, glycolysis, β-oxidation, and transamination were all downregulated, accompanied by synchronous downregulation of energy production and consumption. Glycogenolysis was maintained in the tail, and the carbohydrate flux likely flowed into both PPP and the synthesis of glycan units (e.g., UDP-glucuronate and UDP-glucosamine). Fatty acid elongation and desaturation, as well as the synthesis of bioactive lipid (e.g., prostaglandins) were encouraged in the tail during metamorphic climax. Protein synthesis was downregulated in both the liver and tail. The significance of these metabolic adjustments and their potential regulation mechanism are discussed. Conclusion The energic strategy and anabolic requirements during metamorphic climax were revealed at the molecular level. Amino acid made an increased contribution to energy metabolism during metamorphic climax. Carbohydrate anabolism was essential for the body construction of the froglets. The tail was critical in anabolism including synthesizing bioactive metabolites. These findings increase our understanding of amphibian metamorphosis and provide background information for ecological, evolutionary, conservation, and developmental studies of amphibians.
Molecular detection of Rickettsia in fleas from micromammals in Chile
Authors: Salas Lucila Moreno , Carniglia Mario Espinoza , Schmeisser Nicol Lizama , Fuentes Luis Gonzalo Torres , Fuente María Carolina Silva de la , Lareschi Marcela , Acuña Daniel González 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundRickettsial diseases are considered important in public health due to their dispersal capacity determined by the particular characteristics of their reservoirs and / or vectors. Among the latter, fleas play an important role, since the vast majority of species parasitize wild and invasive rodents, so their detection is relevant to be able to monitor potential emerging diseases. The aim of this study was to detect, characterize, and compare Rickettsia spp. from the fleas of micromammals in areas with different human population densities in Chile.MethodsThe presence of Rickettsia spp. was evaluated by standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing in 1,315 fleas collected from 1,512 micromammals in 29 locations, with different human population densities in Chile. A generalized linear models (GLM) was used to identify the variables that may explain Rickettsia prevalence in fleas.ResultsDNA of Rickettsia spp. was identified in 13.2% (174 of 1,315) of fleas tested. Fifteen flea species were found to be Rickettsia-positive. The prevalence of Rickettsia spp. was higher in winter, semi-arid region and natural areas, and the infections in fleas varied between species of fleas. The prevalence of Rickettsia among flea species ranged from 0%–35.1%. Areas of lower human density have the highest prevalence of Rickettsia. The phylogenetic tree shows two well-differentiated clades. Rickettsia belli is positioned as basal in a clade. Another clade is subdivided into two subclades, and are related to Rickettsia of typhus group.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first report of the occurrence and molecular characterization of Rickettsia spp. in 15 species of fleas of micromammals in Chile. In this study, fleas were detected carrying Rickettsia DNA with zoonotic potential, mainly in villages and natural areas of Chile. Considering that there are differences in the prevalence of Rickettsia in fleas associated with different factors, more investigations are needed to further understand the ecology of Rickettsia in fleas and their implications for human health.
Molecular detection of drug resistant polymorphisms in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Tola Monday , Ajibola Olumide , Idowu Taiwo Emmanuel , Omidiji Olusesan , Awolola Samson Taiwo , Amambua-Ngwa Alfred 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Objective: Nigeria bears 25% of global malaria burden despite concerted efforts towards its control and elimination. The emergence of drug resistance to first line drugs, artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs), indicates an urgent need for continuous molecular surveillance of drug resistance especially in high burden countries where drug interventions are heavily relied on. This study describes mutations in Plasmodium falciparum genes associated with drug resistance in malaria; Pfk13, Pfmdr1, PfATPase6 and Pfcrt in isolates obtained from 83 symptomatic malaria patients between 1-61 years old from Lagos, a Mega city in South-west Nigeria. Results: Two Pfmdr1, N86 and Y184 variants were present at a prevalence of 56% and 13.25% of isolates respectively. There was one synonymous (S679S) and two non-synonymous (M699V, S769M) mutations in the Pfatp6 gene, while Pfcrt genotype (CVIET), had a prevalence of 45%. The Pfk13 C580Y mutant allele was suspected by allelic discrimination in two samples with mixed genotypes. Our findings calls for robust molecular surveillance of antimalarial drug resistance markers in west Africa especially with increased use of antimalarial drugs as prophylaxis for covid-19.
Exogenous polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) promote changes in growth, phospholipid composition, membrane permeability and virulence phenotypes in Escherichia coli
Authors: Herndon Joshua , Peters Rachel , Hofer Rachel , Simmons Tim , Symes Steven , Giles David 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: The utilization of exogenous fatty acids by Gram-negative bacteria has been linked to many cellular processes, including fatty acid oxidation for metabolic gain, assimilation into membrane phospholipids, and control of phenotypes associated with virulence. The expanded fatty acid handling capabilities have been demonstrated in several bacteria of medical importance; however, a survey of the polyunsaturated fatty acid responses in the model organism Escherichia coli has not been performed. The current study examined the impacts of exogenous fatty acids on E. coli. Results: All PUFAs elicited higher overall growth, with several fatty acids supporting growth as sole carbon sources. Most PUFAs were incorporated into membrane phospholipids as determined by ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, whereas membrane permeability was variably affected as measured by two separate dye uptake assays. Biofilm formation, swimming motility and antimicrobial peptide resistance were altered in the presence of PUFAs, with arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids eliciting strong alteration to these phenotypes. Conclusions: The findings herein add E. coli to the growing list of Gram-negative bacteria with broader capabilities for utilizing and responding to exogenous fatty acids. Understanding bacterial responses to PUFAs may lead to microbial behavioral control regimens for disease prevention.
Consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the continuum of the care in a cohort of people living with HIV followed in a single center of Northern Italy
Authors: Quiros-Roldan Eugenia , Magro Paola , Carriero Canio , Chiesa Annacarla , Hamad Issa El , Tratta Elena , Fazio Raffaella , Formenti Beatrice , Castelli Francesco 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Introduction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals faced increasing pressure, where people living with HIV risked to either acquire SARS-CoV-2 and to interrupt the HIV continuum of care.Methods: this is a retrospective, observational study. We compared the numbers of medical visits performed, antiretroviral drugs dispensed and the number of new HIV diagnosis and of hospitalizations in a cohort of people living with HIV (PLWH) followed by the Spedali Civili of Brescia between the bimester of the COVID-19 pandemic peak and the bimester of October-November 2019. Data were retrieved from administrative files and from paper and electronic clinical charts. Categorical variables were described using frequencies and percentages, while continuous variables were described using mean, median, and interquartile range (IQR) values. Means for continuous variables were compared using Student’s t-tests and the Mann-Whitney test. Proportions for categorical variables were compared using the χ2 test.Results: As of December 31st, 2019, a total of 3875 PLWH were followed in our clinic. Mean age was 51,4 ±13 years old, where 28% were females and 18.8% non-Italian. Overall, 98.9% were on ART (n=3834), 93% were viro-suppressed. A total of 1217 and 1162 patients had their visit scheduled at our out-patient HIV clinic during the two bimesters of 2019 and 2020, respectively. Comparing the two periods, we observed a raise of missed visits from 5% to 8% (p<0.01), a reduction in the number of new HIV diagnosis from 6.4 in 2019 to 2.5 per month in 2020 (p=0.01), a drop in ART dispensation and an increase of hospitalized HIV patients due to COVID-19. ART regimens including protease inhibitors (PIs) had a smaller average drop than ART not including PIs (16,6% vs 21,6%, p<0.05). Whether this may be due to the perception of a possible efficacy of PIs on COVID19 is not known. Conclusions: Our experience highlights the importance of a resilient healthcare system and the need to implement new strategies in order to guarantee the continuum of HIV care even in the context of emergency.
Ultrasound-guided versus Shikani optical stylet-aided tracheal intubation: a prospective randomized study
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Wang Yan , Shi Ping , Cao Xue , Ge Shengjin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: To compare ultrasound-guided tracheal intubation (UGTI) versus Shikani optical stylet (SOS)-aided tracheal intubation in patients with anticipated normal airway.Methods: Sixty patients aged 18-65 years old who presented for elective surgery under general anesthesia were recruited in this prospective randomized study. They were assigned into two equal groups, either an ultrasound-guided group (Group UG, n=30) or an SOS-aided group (Group SOS, n=30). After the induction of anesthesia, the tracheal intubation was performed by a specified skilled anesthesiologist. The number of tracheal intubation attempt and the duration of successful intubation on the first attempt were recorded. Complications relative to tracheal intubation including desaturation, hoarseness and sore throat were also recorded.Results: The first-attempt success rate is 93.3% (28/30) in Group UG and 90% (27/30) in Group SOS (P=0.640). The second-attempt was all successful for the 2 and 3 patients left in the two groups, and the overall success rate of both groups was 100%. The duration of successful intubation on the first attempt of Group UG was not significantly different from that of Group SOS (34.0±20.8s vs 35.5±23.2s, P=0.784). One patient in Group SOS had desaturation (P=0.313), and there was none hoarseness in the two groups. Sore throat was detected in both group (4 in Group UG, 5 in Group SOS, P= 0.718).Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided tracheal intubation was as effective as Shikani optical stylet-aided tracheal intubation in adult patients with anticipated normal airway.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-IIC-17010875. Date of Registration: 15 March 2017.