bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Co-expression network analysis identifies a gene signature as a predictive biomarker for energy metabolism in osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhu Naiqiang , Hou Jingyi , Ma Guiyun , Guo Shuai , Zhao Chengliang , Chen Bin 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a common malignant bone tumor originating in the interstitial tissues and occurring mostly in adolescents and young adults. Energy metabolism is a prerequisite for cancer cell growth, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. However, the gene signatures associated with energy metabolism and their underlying molecular mechanisms that drive them are unknown.

Methods
Energy metabolism-related genes were obtained from the TARGET database. We applied the “NFM” algorithm to classify putative signature gene into subtypes based on energy metabolism. Key genes related to progression were identified by weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Based on least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox proportional regression hazards model analyses, a gene signature for the predication of OS progression and prognosis was established. Robustness and estimation evaluations and comparison against other models were used to evaluate the prognostic performance of our model.

Results
Two subtypes associated with energy metabolism was determined using the “NFM” algorithm, and significant modules related to energy metabolism were identified by WGCNA. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) suggested that the genes in the significant modules were enriched in kinase, immune metabolism processes, and metabolism-related pathways. We constructed a seven-gene signature consisting of SLC18B1, RBMXL1, DOK3, HS3ST2, ATP6V0D1, CCAR1, and C1QTNF1 to be used for OS progression and prognosis. Upregulation of CCAR1, and C1QTNF1 was associated with augmented OS risk, whereas, increases in the expression SCL18B1, RBMXL1, DOK3, HS3ST2, and ATP6VOD1 was correlated with a diminished risk of OS. We confirmed that the seven-gene signature was robust, and was superior to the earlier models evaluated; therefore, it may be used for timely OS diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Conclusions
The seven-gene signature related to OS energy metabolism developed here could be used in the early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of OS.
Tumor cells derived-exosomes as angiogenenic agents: possible therapeutic implications
Authors: Ahmadi Mahdi , Rezaie Jafar 
Published: June 2020

AbstractAngiogenesis is a multistep process and various molecules are involved in regulating it. Extracellular vesicles are cell-derived particles, secreted from several types of cells and are known to mediate cell-to-cell communication. These vesicles contain different bio-molecules including nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids, which are transported between cells and regulate physiological and pathological conditions in the recipient cell. Exosomes, 30–150 nm extracellular vesicles, and their key roles in tumorigenesis via promoting angiogenesis are of great recent interest. In solid tumors, the suitable blood supply is the hallmark of their progression, growth, and metastasis, so it can be supported by angiogenesis. Tumor cells abundantly release exosomes containing different kinds of biomolecules such as angiogenic molecules that contribute to inducing angiogenesis. These exosomes can be trafficked between tumor cells or between tumor cells and endothelial cells. The protein and nucleic acid cargo of tumor derived-exosomes can deliver to endothelial cells mostly by endocytosis, and then induce angiogenesis. Tumor derived-exosomes can be used as biomarker for cancer diagnosis. Targeting exosome-induced angiogenesis may serve as a promising tool for cancer therapy. Taken together, tumor derived-exosomes are the major contributors in tumor angiogenesis and a supposed target for antiangiogenic therapies. However, further scrutiny is essential to investigate the function of exosomes in tumor angiogenesis and clinical relevance of targeting exosomes for suppressing angiogenesis.
Morphological parameters of fourth lumbar spinous process palpation: a three-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomography
Authors: Feng Qi , Zhang Lei , Zhang Mengyao , Wen Youliang , Zhang Ping , Wang Yi , Zeng Yan , Wang Junqiu 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe localization of lumbar fourth spinous process (L4-SP) is an important anatomical landmark, and identifying its accurate position is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of waist diseases.MethodsFive hundred participants were scanned with positive and lateral computed tomography (CT), which aimed to clarify anatomic characteristics of L4-SP. Anatomical parameters of the surface localization of L4-SP were measured and recorded through a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction.ResultsFive hundred participants were classified into three types according to the position of BC with the iliac spine. There are just 266 that the line between the highest point of the iliac spine on both sides located on L4-SP (type I, 53.20%), 16 above L4-SP (type II, 3.20%), and 218 below L4-SP (type III, 43.60%). BC in type I (15.92 ± 1.30 mm) is longer than type III (15.56 ± 1.32 mm). While the angle combined with AB and BC is different in the three groups, the angle in type I (173.00 ± 4.83°) is larger than that in type II (164.69 ± 5.50°) and type III (159.45 ± 8.39°). Other measurements were not found any significant differences between above.ConclusionThe traditional palpation for L4-SP is not absolutely exact. The accuracy rate is only 53.20%, and the errors may cause serious consequences.
Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for stage 1 hypertension: protocol for a randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Tian Zhong-Xue , Liu Cun-Zhi , Qi You-Sheng , Tu Jian-Feng , Lin Ying , Wang Yu , Yang Jing-Wen , Shi Guang-Xia , Liu Jun-Hong , Wang Li-Qiong 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundHypertension is a major pathogenic factor of cardiovascular diseases. Insufficient blood pressure control rate and sub-optimal medication adherence remain challenges for effective management of hypertension. Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) has been used to treat various diseases, including hypertension, but the scientific evidence for its benefit remains insufficient. Therefore, we will perform a randomized, controlled clinical trial in patients with stage 1 hypertension to evaluate the effect of TEAS.Methods/designThe study will be a two-arm parallel, randomized controlled trial. Sixty patients with stage 1 hypertension will be randomly assigned to the TEAS group and the control group in a 1:1 ratio. The participants in the TEAS group will receive non-invasive acupoint electrical stimulation for 30 min at four acupoints in the upper and lower extremities at home, 4 times weekly for 12 weeks for a total of 48 sessions. Participants in the control group will not receive any form of acupoint stimulation. All participants in both groups will receive lifestyle education on how to control high blood pressure, including diet, weight control, and exercise. The primary outcome measure will be the change of the mean systolic blood pressure from baseline to 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes include the change of mean diastolic blood pressure, quality of life, body mass index, and physical activity level.DiscussionThis pilot, randomized, controlled trial will explore the feasibility of TEAS. It will also provide potential clinical evidence for the efficacy and safety of TEAS in the treatment of patients with stage 1 hypertension. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, this pilot trial as the precursor of a large scale randomized controlled trial will inform the sample size of the subsequent trial.Trial registrationChinese clinical trial registry, ChiCTR1900025042, Registered on 8 August 2019 (http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=41496).
Development of a multiplex qPCR-based approach for the diagnosis of Dirofilaria immitis, D. repens and Acanthocheilonema reconditum
Authors: Laidoudi Younes , Davoust Bernard , Varloud Marie , Niang El Hadji Amadou , Fenollar Florence , Mediannikov Oleg 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundDirofilaria immitis,D. repensandAcanthocheilonema reconditumare the main causative agents of zoonotic canine filariosis.MethodsWe developed a combined multiplex approach for filaria andWolbachiadetection using the28S-based pan-filarial and16S-based pan-WolbachiaqPCRs, respectively, involving a fast typing method of positive samples using triplex qPCR targetingA. reconditum,D. immitisandD. repens, and a duplex qPCR targetingWolbachiaofD. immitisandD. repens. The approach was complemented by a duplex qPCR for the differential diagnosis of heartworms (D. immitisandAngiostrongylus vasorum) and pan-filarialcox1 and pan-Wolbachia ftsZ PCRs to identify other filarial parasites and theirWolbachia, respectively. A total of 168 canine blood and sera samples were used to validate the approach. Spearmanʼs correlation was used to assess the association between filarial species and the strain ofWolbachia. Positive samples for both the heartworm antigen-test after heating sera and at least one DNA-positive forD. immitisand itsWolbachiawere considered true positive for heartworm infection. Indeed, the presence ofD. repensDNA or that of itsWolbachiaas well asA. reconditumDNA indicates true positive infections.ResultsThe detection limit forWolbachiaand filariae qPCRs ranged from 5 × 10−1to 1.5 × 10−4 mf/ml of blood. When tested on clinical samples, 29.2% (49/168) tested positive for filariae orWolbachiaDNA. Filarial species andWolbachiagenotypes were identified by the combined multiplex approach from all positive samples. Each species ofDirofilariawas significantly associated with a specific genotype ofWolbachia. Compared to the true positives, the approach showed excellent agreement (k = 0.98–1). UnlikeD. immitisDNA, noA. vasorumDNA was detected by the duplex qPCR. The immunochromatographic test for heartworm antigen showed a substantial (k = 0.6) and a weak (k = 0.15) agreements before and after thermal pre-treatment of sera, respectively.ConclusionsThe proposed approach is a reliable tool for the exploration and diagnosis of occult and non-occult canine filariosis. The current diagnosis of heartworm disease based on antigen detection should always be confirmed by qPCR essays. Sera heat pre-treatment is not effective and strongly discouraged.
Exploring the impact of cattle on human exposure to malaria mosquitoes in the Arba Minch area district of southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Zeru Melkam Abiye , Shibru Simon , Massebo Fekadu 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
The success of indoor interventions that target mosquitoes for malaria control is partially dependent on early evening and outdoor biting behaviours of mosquito vectors. In southwest Ethiopia, people and cattle live in proximity, which calls to investigate whether the presence of cattle increase or decrease bites from malaria mosquito vectors. This study assessed both host-seeking and overnight activity of malaria mosquito vectors given the presence or absence of cattle in Chano Mille village, Arba Minch district, Ethiopia.

Methods
Anopheles species density and activity time was compared when a calf was: (i) placed inside; (ii) 1 m away from; or (iii) absent from a tent with a human volunteer resting insides using hourly human landing catches (HLC) conducted from 18:00–0:00 h for 3 months. This trial was performed close to the shore of the Lake Abaya to minimize the interference of other animals on mosquito movement. The overnight activity of malaria vectors was assessed within a Chano village from 18:00–6:00 h with collections carried out both indoors and outdoors by HLC. Generalized estimating equations were used to statistically assess differences.

Results
Anopheles pharoensis was significantly more prevalent when a calf was present either inside (42%, P < 0.001), or adjacent to (46%, P = 0.002) a tent relative to a tent without a calf present. The presence of a calf did not affect densities of the primarily anthropophilic species A. gambiae (s.l.), or An. tenebrosus. Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) (P < 0.001) and An. pharoensis (P = 0.015) both had a tendency for early evening biting between 19:00 h and 20:00 h. Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) was mainly biting humans outdoors in the village.

Conclusions
The presence of calves within and close to human dwellings acts to draw malaria mosquitoes toward the human occupant with the potential to increase their risk of malaria. Hence, deployment of cattle far from human residence could be recommended to reduce human exposure. Outdoor and early evening biting could threaten the success of current indoor-based interventions. Hence, tools could be designed to reduce this threat.
The short-term effects of sedentary behaviour on cerebral hemodynamics and cognitive performance in older adults: a cross-over design on the potential impact of mental and/or physical activity
Authors: Maasakkers Carlijn M. , Melis René J. F. , Kessels Roy P. C. , Gardiner Paul A. , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , Thijssen Dick H. J. , Claassen Jurgen A. H. R. 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Sedentary behaviour might be a potential risk factor for cognitive decline. However, the short-term effects of sedentary behaviour on (cerebro) vascular and cognitive performance in older people are unknown.

Methods
We used a cross-over design with 22 older adults (78 years, 9 females) to assess the short-term hemodynamic and cognitive effects of three hours uninterrupted sitting and explored if these effects can be counteracted with regular (every 30 min) two-minute walking breaks. In addition, we investigated if low versus high mental activity during the three hours of sitting modified these effects. Before and after each condition, alertness, executive functioning, and working memory were assessed with the Test of Attentional Performance battery. Additionally, cerebral blood flow velocity (Transcranial Doppler) and blood pressure (Finapres) were measured in rest, and during sit-to-stand and CO2 challenges to assess baroreflex sensitivity, cerebral autoregulation, and cerebral vasomotor reactivity.

Results
No short-term differences were observed in cognitive performance, cerebral blood flow velocity, baroreflex sensitivity, cerebral autoregulation, or cerebral vasomotor reactivity across time, or between conditions. Blood pressure and cerebrovascular resistance increased over time (8.6 mmHg (5.0;12.1), p < 0.001), and 0.23 in resistance (0.01;0.45), p = 0.04). However, these effects were not mitigated by mental activity or by short walking breaks to interrupt sitting.

Conclusions
In older individuals, three hours of sitting did not influence cognitive performance or cerebral perfusion. However, the sitting period increased blood pressure and cerebrovascular resistance, which are known to negatively impact brain health in the long-term. Importantly, we found that these effects in older individuals cannot be mitigated by higher mental activity and/or regular walking breaks.

Trial registration
Clinical trial registration URL: https://www.toetsingonline.nl/. Unique identifier: NL64309.091.17. Date of registration: 06–02–2018.
Role of albumin in the preservation of endothelial glycocalyx integrity and the microcirculation: a review
Authors: Aldecoa Cesar , Llau Juan V. , Nuvials Xavier , Artigas Antonio 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThe endothelial glycocalyx comprises a complex layer of membrane-bound proteoglycans, secreted glycosaminoglycans, glycoproteins, glycolipids and bound plasma proteins such as albumin and antithrombin associated with the endothelial surface. The glycocalyx plays an important role in vascular homeostasis, regulating vascular permeability and cell adhesion, and acts as a mechanosensor for hemodynamic shear stresses; it also has antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory functions. Plasma proteins such as albumin are physiologically bound within the glycocalyx, thus contributing to stability of the layer. Albumin is the major determinant of plasma colloid osmotic pressure. In addition, albumin transports sphingosine-1-phosphate which has protective endothelial effects, acts as a free radical scavenger, and has immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. This review examines the physiological function of the endothelial glycocalyx and the role of human albumin in preserving glycocalyx integrity and the microcirculation.
Evaluating infection prevention and control programs in Austrian acute care hospitals using the WHO Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework
Authors: Aghdassi Seven Johannes Sam , Grisold Andrea , Wechsler-Fördös Agnes , Hansen Sonja , Bischoff Peter , Behnke Michael , Gastmeier Petra 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Infection prevention and control (IPC) is crucial for patient safety. The World Health Organization (WHO) has released various tools to promote IPC. In 2018, the WHO released the Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework (IPCAF) that enables acute care healthcare facilities to evaluate IPC structures and practices. Data regarding IPC implementation in Austria are scarce. To deliver insights into this topic and promote the IPCAF within the Austrian IPC community, we decided to invite all Austrian hospitals participating in the German nosocomial infection surveillance system to conduct a self-assessment using the WHO IPCAF.

Methods
The IPCAF follows the eight WHO core components of IPC. A German translation of the IPCAF was sent to 127 Austrian acute care hospitals. The survey period was from October to December 2018. Participation in the survey, data entry and transfer to the German national reference center for surveillance of healthcare-associated infections was on a voluntary basis.

Results
Altogether, 65 Austrian hospitals provided a complete dataset. The overall median IPCAF score of all hospitals was 620 (of a possible maximum score of 800), which corresponded to an advanced level of IPC. Of the 65 hospitals, 38 achieved an advanced IPC level. Deeper analysis of the different core components yielded diverse results. Scores were lowest for core components on multimodal strategies for implementation of IPC interventions, and IPC education and training. Around 26% (n = 17) of hospitals reported that the local IPC team was not steadily supported by an IPC committee. Senior clinical staff was not present in the IPC committee in 23% (n = 15) of hospitals. Only 26% (n = 17) of hospitals reported employing at least one IPC professional per ≤250 beds. Surveillance for multidrug-resistant pathogens was not conducted in 26% (n = 17) of hospitals.

Conclusions
Implementation of IPC key aspects is generally at a high level in Austria. However, potentials for improvement were demonstrated, most prominently with regard to staffing, IPC education and training, effective implementation of multimodal strategies, and involvement of professional groups. Our survey demonstrated that the IPCAF is a useful tool for IPC self-assessment and can uncover deficits even in a high-income setting like Austria.
The impact of a quality management program for patients undergoing head and neck resection with free-flap reconstruction: Longitudinal study examining sustainability
Authors: Dort Joseph C. , Sauro Khara M. , Chandarana Shamir , Schrag Christiaan , Matthews Jennifer , Nakoneshny Steven , Manoloto Vida , Miller Tanya , McKenzie C. David , Hart Robert D. , Matthews T. Wayne 
Published: June 2020

Background Care pathways (CPs) are helpful in reducing unwanted variation in clinical care. Most studies of CPs show they improve clinical outcomes but there is little known about the long-term impact of CPs as part of a sustained quality management program. Head and neck (HN) surgery with free flap reconstruction is complex, time-consuming and expensive. Complications are common and therefore CPs applied to this patient population are the focus of this paper. In this paper we report outcomes from a 9 year experience designing and using CPs in the management of patients undergoing major head and neck resection with free flap reconstruction. Methods The Calgary quality management program and CP design is described the accompanying article. Data from CP managed patients undergoing major HN surgery were prospectively collected and compared to a baseline cohort of patients managed with standard care. Data were retrospectively analyzed and intergroup comparisons were made. Results Mobilization, decannulation time and hospital length of stay were significantly improved in pathway-managed patients ( p = 0.001). Trend analysis showed sustained improvement in key performance indicators including complications. Return to the OR, primarily to assess a compromised flap, is increasing. Conclusions Care pathways when deployed as part of an ongoing quality management program are associated with improved clinical outcomes in this complex group of patients.
Imaging using radiolabelled targeted proteins: radioimmunodetection and beyond
Authors: Garousi Javad , Orlova Anna , Frejd Fredrik Y. , Tolmachev Vladimir 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThe use of radiolabelled antibodies was proposed in 1970s for staging of malignant tumours. Intensive research established chemistry for radiolabelling of proteins and understanding of factors determining biodistribution and targeting properties. The use of radioimmunodetection for staging of cancer was not established as common practice due to approval and widespread use of [18F]-FDG, which provided a more general diagnostic use than antibodies or their fragments. Expanded application of antibody-based therapeutics renewed the interest in radiolabelled antibodies. RadioimmunoPET emerged as a powerful tool for evaluation of pharmacokinetics of and target engagement by biotherapeutics. In addition to monoclonal antibodies, new radiolabelled engineered proteins have recently appeared, offering high-contrast imaging of expression of therapeutic molecular targets in tumours shortly after injection. This creates preconditions for noninvasive determination of a target expression level and stratification of patients for targeted therapies. Radiolabelled proteins hold great promise to play an important role in development and implementation of personalised targeted treatment of malignant tumours. This article provides an overview of biodistribution and tumour-seeking features of major classes of targeting proteins currently utilized for molecular imaging. Such information might be useful for researchers entering the field of the protein-based radionuclide molecular imaging.