bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Role of Physical Activity in Cancer Survivors’ Quality of Life
Authors: Liska Tayah M. , Kolen Angie 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Purpose: As a result of a cancer diagnosis and treatment, many cancer survivors experience persistent physical, mental, and emotional symptoms that affect their quality of life. Physical activity has been identified as an intervention that may help to manage the side effects of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of physical activity on overall quality of life in adult cancer survivors. Methods: One-on-one semi structured interviews were conducted in person or via telephone with 13 adult (≥18 yrs) cancer survivors who had completed cancer treatment. Results: These cancer survivors described their physical activity as improving their physical functioning and mental health, as a means of positive social engagement, and adding positivity to their daily life. Conclusion: These results support the role of physical activity to enhance cancer survivors’ quality of life regardless of the individuals’ treatment(s) type, duration, or time since the end of active cancer treatment. Further research is warranted to (a) expand this research with a larger sample, (b) examine healthcare providers’ knowledge and application of exercise guidelines to cancer survivors in cancer care, and (c) explore implementation strategies for greater advocacy for healthcare providers to share the exercise recommendations with cancer survivors.
An objective system for appraising clear aligner treatment difficulty: clear aligner treatment complexity assessment tool
Authors: Long Hu , Wu Zhouqiang , Wang Qingxuan , Liu Lu , Wang Yan , Jian Fan , Liao Lina , Li Xiaolong , Lai Wenli 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background : Recent years has witnessed a remarkable evolution of clear aligner technology and clear aligners are becoming more and more versatile in managing orthodontic patents. The aim of this study was to develop an objective evaluation system for assessing clear-aligner treatment difficulty. Methods : A total of 100 eligible patients were recruited in this study. Based on clinical data (dental models, radiographs and photographs), difficulty levels were evaluated by two experts and regarded as the gold standard. Difficulty scores were determined through an evaluation system encompassing three domains (dental model analysis, radiographic examinations and clinical examinations). The reliability of the evaluation system was examined through analyzing the agreement between difficulty levels and difficulty scores. Moreover, multivariate linear regression test was used to examine the independent effect of each variable (e.g. overbite and crowding) on difficulty level. Results : The results revealed that the assessment of treatment complexity by this objective evaluation system matched perfectly with the gold standard (kappa=0.80). The multivariate regression test revealed that difficulty level was significantly associated with difficulty score (β=0.13, p<0.001), age (β=-0.04, p=0.015<0.01), tooth extraction (β=1.14, p<0.001) and number of difficult tooth movement (β=0.09, p=0.005<0.05). This objective evaluation system elaborated in this study is viable and reliable in appraising clear-aligner treatment difficulty in clinical practice. Conclusions : We suggest practitioners, especially general practitioners, use this evaluation system for appropriate clear-aligner patient selections.
The most stable pinning configurations in transverse supracondylar humerus fracture fixation in children: A novel three-dimensional finite element analysis of a pediatric bone model
Authors: Kamara Allieu , Ji Xianglu , Liu Chuang , Liu Tianjing , Wang Enbo 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background : This study aimed at finding out the effect of exit height of pins, pin trajectory and pin number on the stability of crossed and lateral pinning configurations used in the fixation of extension-type supracondylar humerus fracture (SHF) in children, through finite element analysis of a novel pediatric humerus bone model. Method : Distal humerus model consisting of the ossific nucleus of the capitellum (ONC) and distal cartilage of a 6-year-old boy was developed computationally. Various crossed and lateral pinning fixation models with either two or three pins were simulated on an extension-type, transverse SHF and tested in six loading directions. Results : Two-crossed pins and 2-lateral pins were respectively more stable in rotation and compression loadings, while 3-crossed pins were the most stable in all loading directions. The crossed pins exiting at the upper border of the distal metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction (MDJ) had the best stiffness among the 2-crossed pins, while the lateral pins with a mid-ONC distal pin provided the best stiffness among the 2-lateral pins. A third pin however, going through the olecranon fossa led to improved stability of the 2-lateral pins in flexion, extension, internal and external rotations. Conclusion : In the fixation of extension-type, transverse supracondylar humerus fractures, 2-crossed pins are only superior to 2-divergent lateral pins in rotational loadings. Two-crossed pins exiting at the upper border of the MDJ provides the best stability, whereas 2-lateral pins with a distal pin going through the middle third of the ONC provides the best stability against compression forces for these fractures. Three-crossed pins however offer the best stability against both compression and rotation forces.This study offers important clues in the preoperative evaluation and management of extension-type supracondylar fractures in children.
Salt tolerance involved candidate genes in rice: an integrative meta-analysis approach
Authors: Mansuri Raheleh Mirdar , Shobbar Zahra-Sadat , Jelodar Nadali Babaeian , Ghaffari Mohammadreza , Mohammadi Seyed Mahdi , Daryani Parisa 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: Salinity, as one of the main abiotic stresses, critically threatens growth and fertility of main food crops including rice in the world. To get insight into the molecular mechanisms by which tolerant genotypes responds to the salinity stress, we propose an integrative meta-analysis approach to find the key genes involved in salinity tolerance. Herein, a genome-wide meta-analysis, using microarray and RNA-seq data was conducted which resulted in the identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under salinity stress at tolerant rice genotypes. DEGs were then confirmed by meta-QTL analysis and literature review.Results: A total of 3449 DEGs were detected in 46 meta-QTL positions, while 1286, 86, 1729 and 348 DEGs were observed respectively in root, shoot, seedling and leaves tissues. Moreover, functional annotation of DEGs located in meta-QTLs suggested some involved biological processes (e.g. ion transport, regulation of transcription, cell wall organization and modification as well as response to stress) and molecular function terms (e.g. transporter activity, transcription factor activity and oxidoreductase activity). Remarkably, 20 potential candidate genes were detected in Saltol and hotspot-regions overlying original QTLs for both yield components and ion homeostasis traits; among which, there were many unreported salinity-responsive genes. Some promising candidate genes were detected as pectinesterase, peroxidase, transcription regulator, high-affinity potassium transporter, cell wall organization, protein serine/threonine phosphatase, and CBS domain cotaining protein.Conclusions: The obtained results indicate that, the salt tolerant genotypes use qualified mechanisms particularly in sensing and signalling of the salt stress, regulation of transcription, ionic homeostasis, and ROS scavenging in response to the salt stress.
Oncological outcome of patients with salivary gland cancer treated with surgery and postoperative intensity-modulated radiotherapy: a retrospective study
Authors: Zang Shoumei , Huang Huijie , Zhu Xinli , Chen Meiqin , Yan Danfang , Yan Senxiang 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background To investigate the outcomes, prognostic factors, patterns of failure, and adverse events in patients with salivary gland cancer (SGC) treated with surgery and postoperative intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). Methods We identified 60 patients with major SGC treated with surgery followed by postoperative IMRT. Data for overall survival (OS),progression-free survival (PFS), locoregional relapse-free survival (LRRFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), prognostic factors, and treatment-related toxicities were analyzed. Survival was calculated with the Kaplan–Meier method. Multivariable analysis (MVA) was used to identify prognostic factors for OS, PFS, LRRFS and DMFS. Results Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) was the most common histology ( n =21; 35%). With a median follow-up of 55.5 months, OS and PFS were 90.7%, 85.1%, and 85.1%; and 80.1%, 72.7%, and 63.1%, at 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. LRRFS and DMFS at 3, 5, and 10 years were 87.4%, 82.1%, and 82.1%; and 85.3%, 78.4%, and 66.1%, respectively. Five-year OS, PFS, LRRFS, and DMFS for ACC was 100%, 67.7%, 76.2%, and 90.2%, respectively. In MVA, N stage was an independent predictor of PFS ( p =0.047). Positive margin was a significant prognostic factor for PFS, LRRFS, and DMFS ( p =0.036, 0.026, and 0.011, respectively). Major nerve involvement was significantly correlated with PFS and DMFS ( p =0.034 and 0.008, respectively). Interval from surgery to radiotherapy (RT) predicted PFS and DMFS ( p =0.036 and 0.012, respectively). The most common acute toxicities were mucositis and dermatitis, and xerostomia was the most common late adverse event. Lung metastasis was the most common pattern of distant failure. Conclusion Postoperative IMRT leads to improved survival for SGC patients with acceptable toxicities.
Robustness of single-isocenter multiple-metastasis stereotactic radiosurgery end-to-end testing across institutions
Authors: Saenz Daniel L , Papanikolaou Niko , Zoros Emmanouil , Pappas Evangelos , Reiner Michael , Chew Lip Teck , Lim Hooi Yin , Hancock Sam , Nevelsky Alex , Njeh Christopher , Anagnostopoulos Georgios 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background The accuracy of stereotactic radiosurgery to multiple brain metastases with a single isocenter using high definition dynamic radiosurgery (HDRS) was evaluated to assess robustness, repeatability, and possibility of inter-institutional quality assurance amongst multiple institutions. Methods A CT simulation scan obtained from a previously treated patient was used as the data set for targeting seven brain lesions. A VMAT treatment plan was generated using Monaco and was replicated at six HDRS-capable institutions using a plan template. All institutions subsequently irradiated 3D-printed head anthropomorphic phantoms mimicking the patient’s anatomy. Three different phantoms with a point dosimeter insert, film insert, and a gel dosimeter were used. Absolute dosimetry end-to-end dosimetric accuracy as well as gamma analysis for relative dose distribution agreement analysis was used to evaluate measurement agreement with calculation. Results Point measurements averaged across all institutions using six-degree-of-freedom treatment positioning correction were within 1.2±0.5%. The average gamma passing rate in the film plane using 3D global 3D gamma analysis was 96.6±2.2% (3%/2 mm). For all targets within 4 cm of the isocenter, the 3D dosimetric gel gamma passing rate averaged across institutions was >90% (3%/2 mm). 88.0% average gamma passing rate was found for targets beyond 4 cm. The targeting accuracy of high definition dynamic radiosurgery assessed by geometrical offset of the center of dose distributions was established across multiple institutions in this study to be within 1 mm for targets within 4 cm of isocenter. Conclusions Across variations in clinical practice, comparable dosimetry and localization is possible with this treatment planning and delivery technique.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of fruquintinib for metastatic colorectal cancer third-line treatment in China
Authors: Peng Zhi , Hou Xingduo , Huang Yangmu , Xie Tong , Hua Xinyang 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background : In this study, we analyze the cost-effectiveness of fruquintinib as third-line treatment for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer in China, especially after a recent price drop suggested by the National Healthcare Security Administration. Methods : A Markov model was developed to investigate the cost-effectiveness of fruquintinib compared to placebo among patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life year (QALY). The Chinese healthcare payer’s perspective was considered with a lifetime horizon, including direct medical cost (2019 US dollars [USD]). A willing‐to‐pay threshold was set USD 27,130/QALY, which is 3 times gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. We examined the robustness of the model in one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analysis. Results : Fruquintinib was associated with better health outcomes than placebo (0.640 vs 0.478 QALYs) with a higher cost (USD 20750.9 vs USD 12042.2), resulting an incremental results effectiveness ratio (ICER) of USD 53508.7 per QALY. This ICER is 25% lower than the one calculated before the price drop (USD 70952.6 per QALY). Conclusion : After the price negotiation, the drug becomes cheaper and the ICER is lower, but the drug is still not cost effective under the standard of 3 times GDP willing‐to‐pay threshold. For patients with metastatic colorectal cancer in China, fruquintinib is not a cost-effective option under the current circumstances in China.
Engagement of private healthcare providers for case finding of Tuberculosis and Diabetes Mellitus in Pakistan
Authors: Habib Shifa Salman , Rafiq Sana , Jamal Wafa Zehra , Ayub Shaikh Mohammad , Ferrand Rashida Abbas , Khan Aamir , Zaidi Syed Mohammad Asad 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: The rising co-epidemic of tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) is a challenge for constrained health systems in low and middle-income countries. Diabetes is a known risk factor for tuberculosis and associated with poor tuberculosis treatment outcomes, while tuberculosis is associated with worsening glycemic control. We investigated the performance of bi-directional TB and DM case finding approaches through a private-sector engagement model in Karachi, Pakistan.Methods: Between July 2016 and July 2018, private health care providers were engaged to generate referrals for bi-directional TB and DM screening at private diagnostic and treatment centers in Karachi, Pakistan. Individuals diagnosed with TB underwent glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) testing at the time of anti-tuberculous treatment initiation and at three -month follow up stage. All individuals with a history of diabetes or random blood sugar of greater than 200 mg/dl were screened for TB using a chest X-ray and Xpert MTB/RIF. Results: A total of 6,312 persons with tuberculosis were tested on HbA1c at treatment initiation, of whom 1,516 (24%) were newly diagnosed with DM. About one third of those with HbA1c in the diabetic range (≥ 6.5%) at baseline were found to have a normal HbA1c (<5.7%) result at 3-month follow-up. A total of 3,824 individuals with DM, of whom 2,396 (63%) were known cases and 1,428 (37%) were newly identified with random blood sugar >200mg/dl, underwent chest x-ray and Xpert MTB/RIF testing, with 321 (13.4%) known and 54 (3.8%) new diabetics respectively identified with tuberculosis.Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high yield of TB and DM through bidirectional screening and the feasibility of engagement of private sector in finding missing cases of tuberculosis and diabetes. Given the high prevalence of undiagnosed DM in individuals with TB tuberculosis patients, there is a need to scale-up DM screening within TB programmes. Increased awareness of the high risk of TB among individuals with DM is needed among private health providers and screening for TB among diabetics should be strongly considered.
Raman and FT-IR Spectroscopy investigation the cellulose structural differences from bacteria Gluconacetobacter sucrofermentans during the different regimes of cultivation on a molasses media
Authors: Atykyan Nelli , Revin Victor , Shutova Vitalina 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Raman and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy was used for investigation of structural differences of bacterial celluloses (BC), obtained by cultivation native and immobilized cells of Gluconacetobacter sucrofermentans during static and dynamic regimes of cultivation on a molasses media. It was found that the Raman and FT-IR spectra could characterized the groups of the cellulose molecules. The culturing bacterial cellulose in the presence of results in an increase of crystalline and it increased during cultivated on a molasses media with the addition of 1.5% ethanol - 75.62%. The degree of BC crystallinity increased during dynamic regime of cultivation is higher than under static regime one. The maximal BC content was observed when 0.5% ascorbic acid was added to the cultivation medium with molasses and native cells. It was found, the degree of BC crystallinity during static regime cultivation on a molasses medium with ethanol, increased significantly to 73.5%, and during dynamic regime - 75.6%. So, in this study, the changes of the bacterial cellulose conformation of were revealed during bacterial cultivation in a medium containing molasses in various cultivation modes.
Trans-Aortic or Pulmonary Artery-Based Drainage for Left Ventricular Unloading and Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Life Support Management in a Porcine Cardiogenic Shock Model.
Authors: Meani Paolo , Mlcek Mikulas , Kowalewski Mariusz , Raffa Giuseppe Maria , Jiritano Federica , Matteucci Matteo , Fina Dario , Martucci Gennaro , Sels Jan Willem , Delnoij Thijs , Popkova Michaela , Pilato Michele , Arcadipane Antonio , Belohlavek Jan , Lorusso Roberto 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background The use of peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal life support (V-A ECLS) as a mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic shock has increased dramatically over the last years. However, increased afterload may jeopardize left ventricle (LV) recovery and cause blood stasis and pulmonary edema. Therefore, several LV unloading techniques have been developed and used with limited understanding of the actual difference among them. The aim of the present study was to compare a trans-aortic suction device (Impella) and pulmonary artery (PA) drainage, for LV unloading and V-A ECLS management as well as efficacy in a porcine cardiogenic shock (CS) model Methods A dedicated CS model compared included twelve female swine (21± 1,8-weeks old and weighing 54,3 ± 4,6 kg) supported with V-A ECLS and randomized to Impella or PA-related LV drainage. LV unloading and end-organ perfusion were evaluated through the pulmonary artery catheter and the LV pressure/volume analysis. All the variables were collected at baseline, profound CS, V-A ECLS support with maximum flow and when Impella or PA cannula run on top. Results CS was successfully induced in all twelve animals. Impella resulted in a marked drop of LVEDV compared to a slight decrease in the PA cannula group, resulting in an overall stroke work (SW) and Pressure-Volume Area (PVA) reductions with both techniques. However, SW reduction was significant in the Impella CP group (VA ECMO 3998.82027.6 mmHg x mL vs VAECMO + Impella 1796.9±1033.9 mmHg x ml, p value 0,016), leading to a more consistent PVA reduction (Impella reduction 34,7% vs PA cannula reduction 9,7%) In terms of end organ perfusion, central and mixed O 2 saturation improved with V-A ECLS, and subsequently, remaining unchanged with either Impella or PA cannula as unloading strategy Conclusions Trans-aortic suction and PA drainage provided effective LV unloading during V-A ECLS while maintaining adequate end-organ perfusion. Trans-aortic suction device provides a greater LV unloading effect and reduces more effectively the total LV stroke work.
The Therapeutic Efficacy of Adjunct Therapeutic Plasma Exchange for Septic Shock with Multiple Organ Failure: A Single Center Retrospective Review
Authors: Keith Philip , Wells Adam H , Hodges Jeremy , Fast Stephen H , Adams Amber , Scott L Keith 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: Sepsis remains a common condition with high mortality when multiple organ failure develops. The evidence behind therapeutic plasma exchange in this setting is promising but inconclusive. Our study aims to evaluate the efficacy of adjunct therapeutic plasma exchange for septic shock with multiple organ failure compared to standard therapy alone. Methods: A retrospective, observational chart review was performed, evaluating outcomes of patients with catecholamine resistant septic shock and multiple organ failure in Intensive care units at a tertiary care hospital in Winston Salem, North Carolina from August 2015- March 2019. Adult patients with catecholamine resistant septic shock (≥ 2 vasopressors) and evidence of multiple organ failure (lactic acid >2, platelets < 200, and pH < 7.3) were included. Patients who received adjunct TPE were identified and compared to patients who received standard care alone. A propensity score using APACHE II score, SOFA score, and age was used to match patients, resulting in 40 patients in each arm. Results: Mean baseline APACHE II and SOFA scores were 32.5 and 14.3 in TPE patients versus 32.7 and 13.8 in control patients. The 28-day mortality rate was 40% in the TPE group versus 62.5% in the standard care group (p=0.07). The subgroup of patients with pneumonia as the primary diagnosis had a 28-day mortality rate of 47.8% with adjunct TPE compared 81.3% with standard care alone (p = 0.05). Improvements in baseline SOFA scores at 48 hours were greater in the TPE group compared to standard care alone (p= 0.001). Patients receiving adjunct TPE had longer ICU and hospital lengths of stay. Conclusions: Our retrospective, observational study in adult patients with septic shock and multiple organ failure did not show improvement with adjunct TPE except in patients with pneumonia as the primary source of sepsis. Hemodynamics and organ dysfunction did improve with TPE regardless of source. A prospective, randomized clinical trial is needed to investigate TPE in adult sepsis and to identify subgroups that are most likely to benefit.