bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tannic acid-modified silver nanoparticles enhance anti-Acanthamoeba activity without increasing cytotoxicity of the contact lens solutions
Authors: Hendiger Edyta Beata , Padzik Marcin , Żochowska Agnieszka , Baltaza Wanda , Olędzka Gabriela , Zyskowska Diana , Bluszcz Julita , Jarzynka Sylwia , Chomicz Lidia , Grodzik Marta , Hendiger Jacek , Piñero Jose E. , Grobelny Jarosław , Ranoszek-Soliwoda Katarzyna , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Free living amoebae of Acanthamoeba genus are cosmopolitan, widely distributed protozoans causing severe, vision-threatening corneal infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK). Majority of the increasing number of AK cases are associated with contact lenses use. Due to lack of effective therapies against AK, proper eye hygiene and effective contact lenses disinfection are crucial in prevention of this infection. Currently available multipurpose contact lens disinfection systems are not fully effective against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts. There is an urgent need to increase the disinfecting activity of these systems to prevent Acanthamoeba keratitis infections. Synthesized nanoparticles have been recently studied and proposed as a new generation of anti-microbial agents. It is also known that plant metabolites, including tannins, present anti-parasitic activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-amoebic activity and cytotoxicity of the tannic acid-modified silver nanoparticles (AgTANPs) conjugated with selected multipurpose contact lens solutions. Methods: The anti-amoebic activity of pure contact lens care solutions and nanoparticles conjugated with contact lens care solutions were examined in vitro by colorimetric assay, based on the oxido-reduction of AlamarBlue. The cytotoxicity assays were performed using a fibroblast HS-5 (ATCC CRL-11882) cell line. Results were statistically analyzed by ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls tests using the p<0.05 level of statistical significance. Results: The obtained results showed that nanoparticles enhanced anti-Acanthamoeba activity of the tested contact lens solutions without increasing their cytotoxicity profile. The activity is enhanced within minimal disinfection time recommended by the manufacturer. Conclusions: The conjugation of selected contact lens solutions with AgTANPs might be a novel and promising approach as part of preventive actions of Acanthamoeba keratitis infections among contact lens users.
Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor of the occipitocervical region: Report of two rare cases and literature review
Authors: Zhang Linxiang , Hu Yiwei , Yan Jijie , Yang Jian , Bai Guangjian , Jiang Lijun , Guo Kai , Huang Xing , Liu Tielong 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundTumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is regarded as a rare paraneoplastic syndrome mainly caused by phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor (PMT). To our known, only 5 occipitocervical PMTs have been described in the world’s English literature. We reported two rare cases of occipitocervical PMT, and conducted a retrospective analysis of these 7 cases. The purpose of this study is to discuss the clinical characteristics and treatment of occipitocervical PMT.Case PresentationBoth patients were middle-aged females, and had a long-standing bone pain. In case 1, there were no abnormalities in biochemical indicators. The blood phosphorus was normal and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was elevated in case 2. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested that osteolytic bone destruction accompanied by a soft tissue mass in left C1-2 vertebra (case 1). In case 2, the bone destruction was located on the right C1-2 and the clivus. Then both patients underwent complete resection of tumor, and case 2 also received adjuvant radiotherapy, the histopathology revealed a PMT. Case 2 suffered recurrence during 5-year follow-up.ConclusionsOccipitocervical PMT is quite rare, and only 5 cases have been reported in the literature. Currently, complete resection of the tumor is the best option. The surgery is difficult, and requires delicate operation due to the complex anatomy of the occipitocervical region. Postoperative radiotherapy has little effect on local control. And further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of the newly-emerged therapies.
Triple Threat; pancreatic cystic lesion presenting with spontaneous hemorrhage is found to harbor three distinct neoplasms
Authors: Cha Da Eun , Horn Callie , Passeri Michael 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundPancreatic serous cystadenoma (SCA) is a benign, cystic lesion with an indolent growth pattern. Spontaneous hemorrhage from SCA is extremely rare, as is malignant transformation. Our case report describes an unusual presentation of a patient with a previously diagnosed SCA, made unique by the presence of three separate neoplasms in the final specimen.Case PresentationA 74-year-old male with a previous diagnosis of SCA presented emergently with epigastric pain and non-bilious vomiting. Laboratory results were notable for a hemoglobin of 8.3 g/dl. CT scan of the abdomen demonstrated a complex, solid-cystic mass in the pancreatic head with a large hematoma and questionable focus of active hemorrhage. The patient was resuscitated, and surgical resection was recommended due to the risk of malignant potential, risk of re-bleeding, and severe duodenal compression. Pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed, and final pathology demonstrated three separate neoplasms: serous cystadenoma, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, and neuroendocrine tumor.ConclusionWhile pancreatic SCA are benign tumors that can be surveilled safely in the majority of cases, surgical intervention is often indicated in patients with large, symptomatic cysts or those with unclear diagnosis. During surveillance of SCA, it is crucial for both the patient and the care team to be aware of the possibility of rare, but life-threatening complications, such as hemorrhage. Likewise, the possibility of misdiagnosis or concurrent neoplasia should be considered.
Total saponins from Trillium Tschonoskii Maxim alleviate myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in rat
Authors: Zhang Xiujing , Wang Wei , Tang Jie , Xie Qin , Ma Di 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundTo investigate the effect and possible mechanisms of total saponins from Trillium Tschonoskii Maxim. (TST) on myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in rat.Methods and ResultsRats were pre-treated with TST in 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively. After 14 days intragastric administration, the model of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury was established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery for 30 min and then releasing the ligated artery for 120 min. The hemodynamic indexes, anti-oxidation index, and the anti-inflammation factors were detected. Pathological changes in myocardia tissue were observed by H&E staining. Apoptosis protein expression of caspase 3, 9, 12, AMPK, phosphorylation AMPK (p-AMPK) and Sirt1 was detected by Western blot. Pretreating the rats with TST dramatically decreased the levels of MDA, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β, increased the levels of SOD and GSH-Px, and the apoptosis protein expression were all significantly decreased. In addition, the protein expression of p-AMPK and Sirt1 were markedly increased in TST pre-treated group. Furthermore, TST pre-treatment also improved the histopathological changes.ConclusionTST protect the myocardium by reducing the levels of inflammation factors, peroxides and cell apoptosis, increasing the anti-oxidase, and improving the pathological changes. The possible mechanism maybe through the activating of the AMPK/Sirt1 signaling pathway.
The miR-146a SNP Rs2910164 and miR-155 SNP rs767649 are risk factors for non- small cell lung cancer in Iranian population
Authors: KakaDezfuli Neda , Adcock Ian M. , Alipour Shamila D. , Seyfi Sharareh , Salimi Babak , Golchin Maryam Mafi , Roofchayee Neda Dalil , Varhram Mohammad , Mortaz Esmaeil 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Lung cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression and may act as both tumor suppressors and as oncogenes. The presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) inside the miRNA genomic region could affect target miRNA maturation, expression and binding to its target mRNA and contribute to cancer development. Previous studies on the SNPs Rs2910164 in miR-146a and Rs767649 in miR-155 showed association with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) development. Thus, the aim of study was to detect any correlation between those SNPs in Iranian NSCLC patients.Methods: In a small cohort study, 165 NSCLC patients and 147 non-cancer controls were enrolled between Apr 2015 – Sep 2019 at the Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran-Iran. Allele frequencies from genomic DNA of blood PBMC was studied using PCR-RFLP and their association with the risk of lung cancer was evaluated.Results: The frequency of the C allele of the miR-146a rs2910164 polymorphism was increased in NSCLC patients (OR=1.56, 95%CI=1.10 -2.21, P= 0.012). In contrast, the frequency of the A allele of the miR-155 rs767649 polymorphism was significantly increased in the control group (TT vs. AA+AT: OR=0.58, 95%CI=0.35-0.98, P= 0.043).Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that miR-146a rs2910164 and miR-155 rs767649 polymorphisms could be related with the risk of NSCLC in an Iranian population. However, a larger multi center study across Iran is needed to confirm these findings.
Severe Paediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (PIMS) in a 23 months old baby post COVID-19 effectively managed with IVIG and pulse Steroid: Case report&nbsp;
Authors: Gupta Yogesh Kumar , Shenoy Sowmya , Paike Kuldip G , Tudu Mrigendra Nath 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in children largely causes mild disease. Some of these recovered children may present with delayed manifestations described as Hyperinflammatory syndrome resembling closely with Kawasaki disease (KD) or Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Timely identification, supportive treatment and treatment with immunomodulatory drugs make a significant difference in the outcome.
Intraoperative and Postoperative Dexmedetomidine Combined With Sufentanil and Dezocine-based Patient-Controlled Intravenous Analgesia Increases Female Patients' Global Satisfaction Degree After Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Randomised Double-blind Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Qiongzhen , Yao Haixia , Xu Meiying , Wu jingxiang 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background：There are no studies on the use of dexmedetomidine combined with sufentanil and dezocine-based patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) in females undergoing thoracic surgery. We postulate that introducing dexmedetomidine to a combination of dezocine-based PCA drugs and sufentanil will increase female patients' global satisfaction degree.Methods：One hundred fifty-two female patients with physical classification type I or II according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists undergoing thoracoscopic surgery were arbitrarily classified into two categories, either receiving sufentanil and dezocine-based PCIA (group C) or incorporating dexmedetomidine with sufentanil and dezocine-based PCIA (group D). The patients' global satisfaction degree, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), PCA bolus, rescue analgesia requirements, drug-related adverse effects, rest and coughing visual analogue scale (VAS) ratings, and Ramsay sedation scores (RSS) were measured at 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 h after surgery.Results：Compared with the C group, the patient satisfaction degree was significantly higher; pain scores at rest and coughing were significantly different at 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 h postoperatively; less rescue analgesia and PCA bolus were required; and a lower incidence of PONV was found in the D group. There were non-significant trends for the sedation scores and drug-related adverse effects in both groups.Conclusions：Dexmedetomidine combined with sufentanil and dezocine increased female patients' global satisfaction degree after thoracoscopic surgery. This effect could be linked to the improvement in postoperative analgesia and reduction in postoperative nausea and vomiting; the combined treatment did not increase drug-related adverse effects in female patients.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry number, ChiCTR2000030429. Registered on March 1, 2020.
The Effect of Health Financing Reforms on incidence and management of childhood infections in Ghana: A matching difference in differences impact evaluation
Authors: Odjidja Emmanuel Nene , Saha Manika , Kwanin Charles 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
IntroductionIn 2003, Ghana abolished direct out of pockets payments and implemented health financing reforms including the national health insurance scheme in 2004. Treatment of childhood infections is a key component of services covered under this scheme, yet, outcomes on incidence and treatment of these infections after introducing these reforms have not been covered in evaluation studies. Combining propensity score matching and difference in differences technique, this study fills this gap by assessing the impact on the reforms on the two most dominant childhood infections; fever (malaria) and diarrhoea. Methods Nigeria was considered as a control country and using four data points (pre and post reforms periods) from the demographic health surveys, we calculate the probability of treatment based on background covariates. Those treated in Ghana were matched with appropriate controls using kernel matching technique and quality of matching was assessed. A linear probability model which comprises of pre and post health reforms in Ghana and Nigeria was conducted to determine the net impact of child outcomes under study. All analysis were conducted in STATA (psmatch2, psgraph and pstest) and statistical significance was considered when p-value ≤ 0.05. ResultsAfter matching, it was determined that health reforms significantly increased general medical care for children with diarrhoea (25 percentage points) and also for those receiving care specifically in government managed facilities (14 percentage points). Furthermore, there was marginal net impact on access to medical care for children with fever (40 percentage points) and care in government facilities (24 percentage points). Access to antimalarial was also positively impacted after the introduction of these reforms (5 percentage points). Conclusions Introduction of health reforms in Ghana showed marginal effect on some aspects of incidence and treatment of childhood infections. This denotes that introducing health financing reforms can have marginal impact on child health outcomes.
Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19: A Narrative Review on Prone Position
Authors: Qadri Syeda Kashfi , Ng Priscilla , Toh Theresa Shu Wen , Loh Sin Wee , Tan Herng Lee , Lin Cheryl Bin , Fan Eddy , Lee Jan Hau 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Introduction: Prone position improves mortality in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The impact of prone position in critically ill COVID-19 patients remains to be determined. In this review, we describe mechanisms of action of prone position, systematically appraise current experience of prone position in COVID-19 patients and highlight unique considerations for prone position practices during this pandemic.Methods: For our systematic review, we searched PubMed, Scopus and EMBASE from January 1, 2020 to April 16th 2020. After completion of our search, we became aware of four relevant publications during article preparation that were published in May and June 2020 and these studies were reviewed for eligibility and inclusion. We included all studies reporting clinical characteristics of patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 disease who received respiratory support with high flow nasal cannula, non-invasive or MV and reported the use of prone position. Full text of eligible articles was reviewed and data regarding study design patient characteristics, interventions and outcomes were extracted.Results: We found 7 studies (total 1899 patients) describing prone position in COVID-19. Prone position has been increasingly used in non-intubated patients with COVID-19; studies show high tolerance, improvement in oxygenation and lung recruitment. Published studies lacked description of important clinical outcomes (e.g., mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation).Conclusions: Based on the findings of our review, we recommend prone position in patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 ARDS as per existing guidelines. A trial of prone position should be considered for non-intubated COVID-19 patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure, as long as this does not result in a delay in intubation.
Developing a Thai national critical-care allocation guideline during the COVID-19 pandemic: a rapid review and stakeholders’ consultation&nbsp;
Authors: Marshall Aniqa Islam , Archer Rachel , Witthayapipopsakul Woranan , Sirison Kanchanok , Chotchoungchatchai Somtanuek , Sriakkpo Pisit , Srisookwat Orapan , Teerawattananon Yot , Tangcharoensathien Viroj 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand had almost depleted its critical care resources, particularly ICU beds and ventilators. This prompted the necessity to develop a national guideline for resource allocation. This paper describes the development process of a national guideline for critical resource allocation in Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The guideline development process consisted of three steps (1) rapid review of existing rationing guidelines and literature; (2) interviews of Thai clinicians experienced in caring for COVID-19 cases; and (3) multi-stakeholder consultations. At steps 1 and 2, data was synthesized and categorized using a thematic and content analysis approach and this guided the formulation of the draft guideline. Within Step 3, the draft Thai critical care allocation guideline was debated and finalized before entering the policy-decision stage. Results: Three-order prioritization criteria consisting of (1) clinical prognosis using four tools (Charlson Comorbidity Index, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, Frailty Assessment, and Cognitive Impairment Assessment); (2) number of life years saved; and (3) social usefulness, were proposed by the research team based on literature reviews and interviews. At consultations, stakeholders rejected using life years as a criterion due to potential age and gender discrimination, as well as social utility due to a concern it would foster public distrust as this judgment can be arbitrary. It was agreed that attending physician is required to be the decision maker in the Thai medico-legal context while a patient review committee would play an advisory role. Allocation decisions are to be documented for transparency and no appealing mechanism is to be applied.This guideline will be triggered only when demand exceeds supply after the utmost efforts to mobilize surge capacity. Once implemented, it is applicable to all patients, COVID-19 and non-COVID-19, requiring critical care resources prior to ICU admission and during ICU stay.Conclusions: The guideline development process for the allocation of critical care resources in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak in Thailand was informed by scientific evidence, medico-legal context, existing norms and societal values to reduce risk of public distrust given the sensitive nature of the issue and ethical dilemmas of the guiding principle though it was conducted at recorded speed. Our lessons can provide an insight for the development of similar prioritization guidelines, especially in other LMICs.
The&nbsp;biochemical markers associated with TCD to evaluate the curative effect after Carotid Artery Stenting
Authors: Yuan Xiaofan , Wang Jianhong , Guo Lei , Wang Duozi , Yang Shu , Guo Fuqiang 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Introduction：This study associated the expression of GFAP and S100B in serum with the imaging tools (TCD and DWI) to confirm these cerebral biochemical markers as surrogate outcome methods for evaluating the curative effect after CAS.Methods and materials：72 patients with unilateral carotid stenosis who underwent CAS were enrolled in the operation group. The blood samples of the operation patients were collected on four different time points: T1: the day before operation; T2: 1 day (24 hours) after operation; T3: 3 days (72 hours) after operation; T4: 30 days after operation. The operation patients were performed on the MRI after CAS to evaluate the post-operative lesion and received the TCD to monitor the changes of hemodynamics. 47 patients who were excluded for carotid artery stenosis by DSA were selected as the control group. The blood samples of patients in control group were collected at D1 (before DSA) and D2 (24 hours after DSA). The concentrations of GFAP and S100B in serum were measured with ELISA.Results：(1) The MFV (pre-operation, post-operation, 30 days follow-up: 47.65±17.24, 62.37±18.25, 70.29±16.89; P<0.05) and PI (pre-operation, post-operation, 30 days follow-up: 0.78±0.21, 0.98±0.19, 1.02±0.20; P<0.05) increased significantly in the ipsilateral MCA after CAS. And at 30 days follow-up, the CVR improved significantly (post-operation, 30 days follow-up: 27.47±12.13, 31.92±10.94; P<0.05). Patients with different degrees of stenosis, the more severe stenosis in carotid artery, the more obvious improvement of CVR at the 30 days follow-up. (2) After CAS, the serum concentrations of GFAP and S100B increased to the peak at 24 hour after operation (T2), and then decrease gradually (T2>T3>T4; P < 0.05). Furthermore, the serum concentrations of GFAP (r=0.71, P<0.05) and S100B (r=0.78, P<0.05) correlated positively with CVR at 30 days after CAS. (3) 29/72 patients (40.28%) were shown the emerging hyperintense in DWI after CAS.Conclusion：Our finding proven that the trend of GFAP and S100B in serum after CAS had a positive correlation to the improved hemodynamics which was verified by TCD. We recommend the biochemical markers (GFAP and S100B) associated with TCD to evaluate the curative effect after CAS.