bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and Patient-reported Outcomes Associated to Dropout in Severely Affected Oncological Patients
Authors: Gebert Pimrapat , Schindel Daniel , Frick Johann , Schenk Liane , Grittner Ulrike 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundPatient-reported outcome measures are commonly used and are surrogates for clinical outcomes in cancer research. In the research setting of very severe diseases such as cancer, it is difficult to avoid the problem of incomplete questionnaires from drop-out or missing data due to patients who deceased during observation period. We aimed to explore patient characteristics and patient-reported outcomes associated with the time-to-dropout. MethodsIn the Oncological Social Care Project (OSCAR) study the condition of participants was assessed four times within 12 months (t0: baseline, t1: 3 months, t2: 6 months, t3:12 months) by validated patient-reported outcome measures. We performed competing-risks regression based on Fine and Gray’s proportional sub-distribution hazards model for exploring factors associated with time-to-dropout. Death was considered a competing risk. ResultsThree hundred sixty-two participants were analyzed in the study. 193 (53.3%) completed follow-up at 12 months, 67 (18.5%) patients dropped out, and 102 patients (28.2%) died during the study period. Poor subjective social support was related to higher risk for drop-out (SHR=2.10; 95%CI: 1.01 – 4.35). Lower values in quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30) were related to drop-out and death. The subscales global health status/QoL, role functioning, physical functioning, and fatigue symptom were key characteristics associated with drop-out.ConclusionSeverely affected cancer patients with poor social support and poor quality of life seem more likely to drop out of studies compared to patients with higher levels of social support and quality of life. This should be considered when planning studies assessing cancer patients. Methods to monitor drop-outs timely and handle missing outcomes might be used. Results of such studies have to be interpreted with caution in light of the particular drop-out mechanisms.
miRNA-1246 in Extracellular Vesicles Secreted from Metastatic Tumor Induces Drug Resistance in Tumor Endothelial Cells
Authors: Torii Chisaho , Maishi Nako , Kawamoto Taisuke , Morimoto Masahiro , Akiyama Kosuke , Yoshioka Yusuke , Minami Takashi , Tsumita Takuya , Alam Mohammad Towfik , Ochiya Takahiro , Hida Yasuhiro , Hida Kyoko 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Tumor endothelial cells (TECs) reportedly exhibit altered phenotypes. We have demonstrated that TECs acquire drug resistance with the upregulation of p-glycoprotein (p-gp, ABCB1), contrary to traditional assumptions. Furthermore, p-gp expression was higher in TECs of highly metastatic tumors than in those of low metastatic tumors. However, the detailed mechanism of differential p-gp expression in TECs remains unclear. Methods: miRNA was identified in highly metastatic tumor extracellular vesicles (EVs) and the roles of miRNA in endothelial cell resistance were analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Results: In the present study, we found that treatment of highly metastatic tumor-conditioned medium induced resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) with interleukin-6 (IL-6) upregulation in endothelial cells (ECs). Among the soluble factors secreted from highly metastatic tumors, we focused on extracellular vesicles (EVs) and determined that miR-1246 was contained at a higher level in highly metastatic tumor EVs than in low metastatic tumor EVs. Furthermore, miR-1246 was transported via the EVs into ECs and induced IL-6 expression. Upregulated IL-6 induced resistance to 5-FU with STAT3 and Akt activation in ECs in an autocrine manner. Conclusions: These results suggested that highly metastatic tumors induce drug resistance in ECs by transporting miR-1246 through EVs.
3D Holographic Visualization for Pre-procedural Planning of Spatially Complex Brain Aneurysm Treatment
Authors: Weunski Crew Joseph , Hanlon Aydan , Al-Nimer Sara , Yanof Jeffrey , Hussain Shazam 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop and demonstrate a novel imaging platform that post-processes volumetric imaging data (e.g. Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance angiography) to provide holographic visualization for pre-procedural treatment planning of a morphologically complex brain aneurysm. Digital CT images were segmented, using the Materialise Mimics software, into three-dimensional digital models that were imported into a prototype application for the Microsoft HoloLens. Feedback from testing the prototype indicated potential for augmented reality to assist an interventionalist in spatial understanding and depth perception of spatially complex anatomy and could increase confidence in pre-procedural planning. Future studies will be conducted with additional cases to further validate the utility of the platform in surgical planning decisions and to expand the platform for patient/resident education, telemedicine, and intra-operative use.
Predicting Incidence of Long-term Care Insurance Certification in Japan with the Kihon Checklist for Frailty Screening Tool: Analysis of Local Government Survey Data
Authors: Ito Kumiko , Kawai Hisashi , Tsuruta Harukazu , Obuchi Shuichi 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Predicting incidence of long-term care insurance (LTCI) certification in the short term is of increasing importance in Japan. The present study examined whether the Kihon Checklist (KCL) can be used to predict incidence of LTCI certification (care level 1 or higher) in the short term among older Japanese persons.
Methods
In 2015, the local government in Tokyo, Japan, distributed the KCL to all individuals older than 65 years who had not been certified as having a disability or who had already been certified as requiring support level 1–2 according to LTCI system. We also collected LTCI certification data within the 3 months after collecting the KCL data. The data of 17785 respondents were analyzed. First, we selected KCL items strongly associated with incidence of LTCI certification, using stepwise forward-selection multiple logistic regression. Second, we conducted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses for three conditions (1: Selected KCL items, 2: The main 20 KCL items (nos. 1–20), 3: All 25 KCL items). Third, we estimated specificity and sensitivity for each condition.
Results
During a 3-month follow-up, 81 (0.5%) individuals required new LTCI certification. Eight KCL items were selected by multiple logistic regression as predictive of certification. The area under the ROC curve in the three conditions was 0.92–0.93, and specificity and sensitivity for all conditions were greater than 80%.
Conclusions
Three KCL conditions predicted short-term incidence of LTCI certification. This suggests that KCL items may be used to screen for the risk of incident LTCI certification.
Fetal Sex-Dependent Associations Between Gestational Hormone Concentrations and Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Cohort Study
Authors: Cathey Amber L , Watkins Deborah J , Rosario Zaira Y , Vega Carmen M Vélez , Mukherjee Bhramar , O'Neill Marie S , Loch-Caruso Rita , Alshawabkeh Akram N , Cordero José F , Meeker John D 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Adverse birth outcomes remain significant public health problems that can have long-lasting impacts on mother and child. Understanding biological mechanisms underlying these outcomes, including altered endocrine function, can inform prevention efforts. Thus, we aimed to explore associations between repeated gestational hormone measurements and birth outcomes. Secondarily, we assessed impacts of fetal sex and timing of hormone measurement on these associations. Methods: We explored associations between repeated gestational hormone measurements and birth outcomes among 976 women in PROTECT, a longitudinal prospective birth cohort in northern Puerto Rico. Birth outcomes assessed included preterm and spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), small/large for gestational age (SGA, LGA), birth weight z-score, and gestational age at birth. Multivariate logistic and linear regressions were fit using pregnancy average concentrations of hormones. We also conducted sensitivity analyses assessing impacts of fetal sex and timing of hormone measurement on observed associations. Results: Among male fetuses, spontaneous PTB was associated with increased average corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) (OR: 2.50, 95% CI: 1.19, 5.24), increased total triiodothyronine (T3) (OR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.02, 3.16) and decreased testosterone (OR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.74). Odds of GDM increased with average free thyroxine (fT4) (OR: 2.80, 95% CI: 1.06, 7.41), and decreased with average testosterone (OR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.86). Progesterone/estriol ratio was inversely associated with birth weight z-score (b: -0.14, 95% CI: -0.27, -0.01) and gestational age (b: -0.39 weeks, 95% CI: -0.66 , -0.12), and positively associated with odds of SGA (OR: 2.08, 95% CI: 1.36, 3.19). Among females, birth weight z-score was inversely associated with progesterone (b: -0.17, 95% CI: -0.31, -0.02) and total thyroxine (T4) (b: -0.16, 95% CI: -0.30, -0.02), and GDM was inversely associated with progesterone/estriol (OR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.99). Conclusions: Associations between hormones and birth outcomes vary based on timing of hormone measurement and fetal sex. Future studies are needed to understand mechanisms involved in adverse birth outcomes and fetal sex differences.
Measuring Body Condition of Lizards: A Comparison Between Non-Invasive Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, Chemical Fat Extraction and Calculated Indices
Authors: Sion Guy , Watson Maggie J. , Bouskila Amos 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundCondition indices (CIs) are used in ecological studies as a way of measuring an individual animal’s health and fitness. Noninvasive CIs are estimations of a relative score of fat content or rely on a ratio of body mass compared to some measure of size, usually a linear dimension such as tarsus or snout-vent length. CIs are generally measured invasively by lethal fat extraction as in a seasonal sample of individuals in a population. Many alternatives to lethal fat extraction are costly or time consuming. As an alternative, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) allows for non-destructive analysis of body composition and enables multiple measurements during an animal's life time. DXA has never been used for ecological studies in a small, free-ranging lizard before, therefore we calibrated this method against a chemical extraction of fat from a sample of 6 geckos (Israeli fan toed gecko Ptyodactylus guttatus) ranging in body mass between 4.2–11.5 g. ResultsWe found that fat mass measured with DXA was significantly correlated with the mass of chemically extracted fat for specimens more than 4.8g (N=5, R2=0.995, P<0.001). Fat percentage regressed with body mass significantly predicted the DXA fat percentage (N=30, R2adj.=0.875, P<0.001). Live wet mass was significantly correlated with calculated fat mass (N=30, R2=0.984, P<0.001) for specimens more than 4.8g. Among the other calculated non-invasive CIs that we tested, the best was mass/SVL (N=30, rMass/SVL= 0.83, PTwo-tailed<0.001). ConclusionsWe recommend that in situations where DXA cannot be used, that the most accurate of the body condition estimators for both males and females in this species is mass/SVL (snout-vent length) for both sexes.
The Combination of Trehalose and Glycerin: An Effective and Non-Toxic Recipe for Clinical Cryopreservation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Tian-Yu , Tan Poh-Ching , Xie Yun , Zhang Xiao-Jie , Zhang Pei-Qi , Gao Ying-Ming , Zhou Shuang-Bai , Li Qing-Feng 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) promote tissue regeneration and repair. Cryoprotective agents (CPA) protect cells from cryodamage in the process of cryopreservation. Safe and efficient cryopreservation of ADSCs is critical in the clinical application of cell-based therapy. However, most CPAs contain toxic concentrations limiting the possibility of their clinical application. Objective: The aim of this study is to develop a non-toxic xeno-free CPA for ADSCs to achieve high-efficiency and low-risk cryopreservation. Methods: We explored the most efficient concentrations in different concentrations of trehalose (0.3M, 0.6M, 1.0M, and 1.25M) and glycerol (10%, 20%, 30% v/v); then evaluated the outcome of the combination of trehalose and glycerol in ADSC cryopreservation, compared to the commonly used CPA, DMSO (10%) + FBS (90%). All samples were slowly freezed and stored in liquid nitrox for 30 days. The effectiveness was evaluated by the cell viability, proliferation, migration and multi-potential differentiation of ADSCs after thawing. Results: Compared to the CPAs with single reagent, 1.0M Tre + 20%Gly group showed significantly higher efficiency in preserving ADSCs activities after thawing, with better outcome in both cell viability and proliferating capacity. Compared to 10%DMSO+90%FBS, ADSCs preserved in 1.0M Tre + 20%Gly group showed similar cell viability, surface markers and multi-potential differentiation but significantly higher migration capability, indicating that better cell function preservation can be achieved by 1.0M Tre + 20%Gly. Conclusions: 1.0M Tre + 20%Gly can preserve ADSCs with high migration capability and cell viability compared to 10%DMSO+90%FBS and maintain similar stemness and multi-potential differentiation as fresh cells. Our results demonstrate that 1.0M Tre + 20%Gly can achieve highly efficient cryopreservation of ADSCs and is suitable for clinical applications.
Deep Brain Stimulation of the Cuneiform Nucleus for Levodopa-Resistant Freezing of Gait in Parkinson’s Disease: Study Protocol for a Prospective, Pilot Trial
Authors: Chang Stephano , Cajigas Iahn , Guest James D. , Noga Brian R. , Luca Corneliu C. , Jagid Jonathan R. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Freezing of gait (FOG) is a particularly debilitating motor deficit seen in a subset of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) patients that is poorly responsive to standard levodopa therapy or deep brain stimulation (DBS) of established PD targets such as the subthalamic nucleus and the globus pallidus interna. The proposal of a DBS target in the midbrain, known as the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) to address FOG was based on its observed pathology in PD and its hypothesized involvement in locomotor control as a part of the mesencephalic locomotor region, a functionally defined area of the midbrain that elicits locomotion in both intact animals and decerebrate animal preparations with electrical stimulation. Initial reports of PPN DBS were met with much enthusiasm; however, subsequent studies produced mixed results, and recent meta-analysis results have been far less convincing than initially expected. A closer review of the extensive MLR preclinical literature, including recent optogenetics studies, strongly suggests that the closely related cuneiform nucleus (CnF), just dorsal to the PPN, may be a superior target to promote gait initiation.Methods: We will conduct a prospective, open-label, single-arm pilot study to assess safety and feasibility of CnF DBS in PD patients with levodopa-refractory FOG. Four patients will receive CnF DBS and have gait assessments with and without DBS during a 6-month follow up.Discussion: This paper presents the study design and rationale for a pilot study investigating a novel DBS target for gait dysfunction, including targeting considerations. This pilot study is intended to support future larger scale clinical trials investigating this target.Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT04218526 (registered January 6, 2020), https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04218526
High Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Call for Improved Awareness and Prevention
Authors: Zhang Yun-xia , Zhang Meng , Wang Yimin , Qin Wei , Zhang Zhu , Li Chenghong , Zhai Zhenguo 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: An increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the prevalence of VTE in COVID-19 patients.Methods: The PubMed and Embase databases were searched for studies reporting VTE in COVID-19 patients up to June 27, 2020. The selected studies were predefined into the “suspected screening group” and the “routine screening group.” The VTE prevalence was calculated using random-effect models.Results: We selected 20 studies including a total of 2763 COVID-19 patients. In 2203 COVID-19 patients from the suspected screening group, the pool VTE incidence was 15.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.5–21.6%). In 560 COVID-19 patients from the routine screening group, the VTE prevalence was 40.8% (95% CI: 20.6–64.7%). Furthermore, the VTE incidence of critically ill COVID-19 patients from the two groups was 19.6% and 61.4%, respectively, which indicates that critically ill COVID-19 patients were more susceptible to VTE.Conclusions: A high incidence of VTE was observed in COVID-19 patients, especially in severe cases. The incidence of VTE in COVID-19 patients from the routine screening group was higher than that in patients from the suspected screening group. This indicates that a lower threshold of suspicion to perform VTE imaging tests may be reasonable and there is an urgent need to adapt a regular screening strategy for VTE.
Quasi-Optical Design Of A Millimeter Wave Imaging System
Authors: Jadidi Faeze , Eslamimajd Abdollah , Erfaniyan Alireza , Armaki Seyed Hossein Mohseni 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
In this paper, we report complete design and simulation of a quasi-optical millimeter wave imaging system with Fresnel lens and horn Antenna using ZEMAX and FEKO softwares, respectively. It is much easier to make a Fresnel lens at millimeter wavelengths compared to spherical and aspherical lenses. The use of Fresnel lens to focus millimeter wave radiation greatly reduces the thickness and also the weight of the focusing element from 25 Kg to 4.5 Kg. A horn antenna with Gaussian profile and corrugated walls at the central frequency of 94 GHz for feeding this system is designed. The symmetry of the designed corrugated Gaussian horn radiation pattern in E and H orthogonal planes, its wide bandwidth as well as its low side lobe levels make it a good candidate for feeding a W band millimeter-wave imaging system. The designed quasi-optical imaging system has low weight with high resolution and can be used to detect hidden objects within a distance of 5 meters with 30 mm resolution in W band at 94 GHz central frequency.
Evaluation of Post-tracheostomy`s Scars and Its Impact on Persons Quality of Life: A Case Control Study
Authors: Poghosyan Anna , Shahparonyan Rafik G. , Minasyan Armen M. , Bablumyan Aren Yu. , Malkhasyan Irina E. , Matosyan Khachatur H. , Sargsyan Ani M. , Tadevosyan Artashes E. , Muradyan Armen A. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Tracheostomy is one of the more commonly performed procedures in critically ill patients. Postoperative scarring is one of the bothersome sequelae of tracheostomies. Scars distorted the physical appearance, especially when found on the head and neck, which could cause a negative impact on quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate and assess the impact on quality of life of post-tracheostomy`s scars, depending on the method of tracheostomy.Methods: The prospective, single-center observational study was conducted. One hundred and fifty-six persons with more than four months of post-tracheostomy surgical scars presence were observed using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale and Dermatology Life Quality index questionnaire. Persons were divided on two groups depending on method of performed tracheostomy, and duration of cannulated period was considered in both groups. Statistical analyses were performed by using SPSS ver. 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) and p-values of <0.05 were considered significant.Results: The patients who had a tracheostomic tube cannulation period of less than 15 days had better cosmetic results than those who had tracheostomic tubes for more than 15 days, regardless of the method of tracheostomy 6.64± 0.082 vs. 16.15± 0.096 (p<0.05) in surgical tracheostomy group and 7.26± 0.211 vs.14.17± 0.379 (p<00.05) in percutaneous dilatational group. The Dermatology Life Quality index scores have shown a mean value of 0.6 ±0.013, which means that post-tracheostomy scarring in the presented study, had no effect on the person's quality of life.Conclusions: Aesthetic outcomes of post-tracheostomy`s scars after the open surgical tracheostomy technique, performed using a minimally invasive approach, did not statistically differ from those of the percutaneous dilatational technique. Persons with a long duration of tracheostomic tube ventilation showed worse aesthetic outcomes compared with short-term tracheostomic cannulation, not dependent on the tracheostomy performing technique.The Dermatology Life Quality index have shown that post-tracheostomy`s scarring in the presented study had no effect on the person's quality of life.Trial registration: ISRCTN24668317 (IRB no.YSMU №7/18-19). Date of registration 23/04/2019
Exosomes Derived From Stem Cells From Apical Papilla Promote Craniofacial Soft Tissue Regeneration Through Enhancing Cdc42-Mediated Vascularization
Authors: Liu Yao , Zhuang Xueying , Yu Si , Yang Ning , Zeng Jianhong , Chen Xu 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Reconstruction of complex critical-size defects (CSD) in craniofacial region is a major challenge, and the soft tissue regeneration is crucial in determining the therapeutic outcome of craniofacial CSD. Stem cells from apical papilla (SCAP) are neural crest-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) which are homologous to craniofacial tissue, and represent a promising source for craniofacial tissue regeneration. Exosomes, which contained compound bioactive contents, are the key factors of stem cell paracrine action. However, the roles of exosomes derived from SCAP (SCAP-Exo) in tissue regeneration are not fully understood. Here, we explored the effects and underlying mechanisms of SCAP-Exo on CSD in maxillofacial soft tissue.Methods: SCAP-Exo were isolated and identified by transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. The effects of SCAP-Exo on wound healing and vascularisation were detected by measuring wound area, histological and immunofluorescence analysis in the palate gingiva CSD of mice. Real-time live cell imaging and functional assays were used to assess the effects of SCAP-Exo on the biological functions of endothelial cells (ECs). Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms of SCAP-Exo mediated ECs angiogenesis in vitro was tested by immunofluorescence staining, Western blot and Pull-Down assays. Finally, in vivo experiments were carried out to verify whether SCAP-Exo could affect the vascularisation and wound healing through Cdc42.Results: We showed that SCAP-Exo promoted tissue regeneration of palatal gingiva CSD by enhancing vascularisation in the early phase in vivo, and also indicated SCAP-Exo improved the angiogenic capacity of endothelial cells (ECs) in vitro. Mechanistically, SCAP-Exo elevated cell migration by improving cytoskeletal reorganization of ECs via cell division cycle 42 (Cdc42) signalling. Furthermore, we revealed that SCAP-Exo transferred Cdc42 into the cytoplasm of ECs, and the Cdc42 protein could be reused directly by the recipient ECs, which resulted in the activation of Cdc42 dependent filopodia formation and elevation of cell migration of ECs.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that SCAP-Exo had a superior effect on angiogenesis and effectively promoted craniofacial soft tissue regeneration. These data provide a new option for SCAP-Exo to be used as a cell-free approach to optimize tissue regeneration in the clinic.