bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Three redescriptions in Tintinnopsis (Protista：Ciliophora: Tintinnina) from coastal waters of China, with cytology and phylogenetic analyses based on ribosomal RNA genes
Authors: Bai Yang , Wang Rui , Song Wen , Li Lifang , Santoferrara Luciana F. , Hu Xiaozhong 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: The taxonomy of tintinnine ciliates is vastly unresolved because it has traditionally been based on the lorica (a secreted shell) and it has only recently incorporated cytological and molecular information. Tintinnopsis, the most speciose tintinnine genus, is also the most problematic: it is known to be non-monophyletic, but it cannot be revised until more of its species are studied with modern methods. Results: Here, T. hemispiralis Yin, 1956, T. kiaochowensis Yin, 1956, and T. uruguayensis Balech, 1948, from coastal waters of China, were studied. Lorica and cell features were morphometrically investigated in living and protargol-stained specimens, and sequences of three ribosomal RNA (rRNA) loci were phylogenetically analyzed. The three species show a complex ciliary pattern (with ventral, dorsal, and posterior kineties and right, left, and lateral ciliary fields), but differ in lorica morphology, details of the somatic ciliature and rRNA gene sequences. Tintinnopsis hemispiralis is further distinguished by a ciliary tuft (a ribbon of very long cilia originating from the middle portion of the ventral kinety and extending out of the lorica) and multiple macronuclear nodules. Both T. kiaochowensis and T. uruguayensis have two macronuclear nodules, but differ in the number of somatic kineties and the position of the posterior kinety. Two neotypes are fixed for T. hemispiralis and T. kiaochowensis to stabilize the species names objectively, mainly because of the previous unavailability of type materials. By phylogenetic analysis and comparison with closely-related species, we infer that the ciliary tuft and details such as the commencement of the rightmost kinety in the lateral ciliary field are synapomorphies that may help clarify the systematics of Tintinnopsis-like taxa. Conclusion: The redescriptions of three poorly known Tintinnopsis species, namely T. hemispiralis, T. kiaochowensis, and T. uruguayensis firstly revealed their ciliary pattern and rRNA sequences. This study expands knowledge and database of tintinnines and helps in identifying potential synapomorphies for future taxonomic rearrangements.
BK polyomavirus infection promotes growth and aggressiveness in bladder cancer
Authors: Zeng Yigang , Sun Jiajia , Bao Juan , Zhu Tongyu 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Recent studies have confirmed the integration of the BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) gene into the cellular genome of urothelial carcinomas in transplant recipients, further confirming the correlation between BKPyV and urothelial carcinomas after transplantation. However, the role BKPyV infections play in the biological function of bladder cancer remains unclear. Methods: We developed a BKPyV-infected bladder cancer cell model and a mice tumor model to discuss the role of BKPyV infections. Results: Our research proves that BKPyV infections promote the proliferation, invasion and migration of bladder cancer cells, while the activation of β-catenin signaling pathway is one of its mediation mechanisms. Conclusions: We first described BKPyV infection promotes the proliferation, invasion and migration of bladder cancer. We verified the role of β-catenin signaling pathway and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition effect in BKPyV-infected bladder cancer. These results provide meaningful information towards the diagnosis and treatment of clinical bladder cancer.
Extensively drug-resistant Alcaligenes faecalis infection
Authors: Huang Chienhsiu 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Alcaligenes faecalis is usually opportunistic infection in humans. Alcaligenes faecalis infection is often challenging to treat due to its increased resistance to many antibiotics. The results from a clinical study of Alcaligenes faecalis infection may help improve patients’ clinical care. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients presenting with Alcaligenes faecalis infection from January 2014 through December 2019. The medical records of all patients were reviewed for demographic information, clinical symptoms and signs, comorbidities, use of intravenous antibiotics within the past 3 months, bacterial culture, antibiotics sensitivity test, and clinical outcomes.Results: Sixty-one cases of Alcaligenes faecalis infection were seen during the study period, including 25 cases of cystitis, 9 cases of diabetic foot ulcer with infection, 8 cases of pneumonia, 7 cases of acute pyelonephritis, 3 cases of bacteremia, 9 cases of infection at specific sites. Thirty-seven patients (60.7%) had a history of receiving intravenous antibiotics within 3 months of the diagnosis. Fifty-one (83.6%) cases were mixed with other bacterial infections. Extensively drug-resistant infections have been reported since 2018. The highest antibiotic sensitivity rate for Alcaligenes faecalis, 66.7%, was reported in 2019. Ciprofloxacin and piperacillin/tazobactam are not good choices for empiric therapy of Alcaligenes faecalis infection. Conclusions: The most frequent Alcaligenes faecalis infection sites were in the urinary tract, skin and soft tissue, and lung. Alcaligenes faecalis showed markedly decreased sensitivity to commonly used antibiotics and, more recently, extensively drug-resistant Alcaligenes faecalis infections have emerged.
Diclazuril-Induced Expression of CDK-Related Kinase 2 in the Second-Generation Merozoites of Eimeria Tenella
Authors: Zhou Bian-hua , Ding Hai-yan , Yang Jing-yun , Chai Jun , Guo Hong-wei , Tian Er-jie 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background：Coccidiosis caused by Eimeria tenella infection, directly or indirectly leads to great loss to poultry industry. With the emergence of drug-resistance in chicken coccidia, it is imperative to develop new drugs. Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate cell cycle progression in numerous organisms by acting as key molecular switches. Results: In the present study, a diclazuril anticoccidiosis animal model was established and CDK-related kinase 2 (CRK2) in the second-generation merozoite of E. tenella (EtCRK2) gene was amplified through reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and expressed in Escherichia coli Rosetta (DE3). Purified recombinant protein was used for antiserum preparation. Subsequently, EtCRK2 transcription and translation levels were detected through quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. The localization of EtCRK2 in merozoites was examined via immunofluorescence techniques. Results showed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of EtCRK2 decreased in the infected/diclazuril group compared with those in the infected/control group. In addition, immunofluorescence analysis showed that EtCRK2 was localized in the cytoplasm of merozoites. The fluorescence intensity of EtCRK2 in the infected/diclazuril group was significantly weaker than that in the infected/control group. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the anticoccidial drug diclazuril against E. tenella by affecting the expression pattern of EtCRK2 molecule, and EtCRK2 may be used as a candidate target for new drug development.
Influencing Factors for Early Detection and Prevention of Postpartum Hemorrhage in The Northern Province of Rwanda: Beneficiary and Health Worker Perspectives.
Authors: Bazirete Oliva , Nzayirambaho Manassé , Umubyeyi Aline , Uwimana Marie Chantal , Marilyn Evans 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Reduction of maternal mortality and morbidity is a major global health priority.However, much remains unknown regarding factors associated with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) among childbearing women in the Rwandan context. The aim of this study is to explore the influencing factors for early detection and prevention of PPH as perceived by beneficiaries and health workers in the Northern Province of Rwanda. Methods: A qualitative descriptive exploratory study was drawn from a larger sequential exploratory‐mixed methods study. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 11 women who experienced PPH within the 6 months prior to interview. In addition, focus group discussions were conducted with: women’s partners or close relatives, community health workers (CHWs) in charge of maternal health and health care providers . A socio ecological model was used to develop interview guides to describe factors related to early detection and prevention of PPH in consideration of individual attributes, interpersonal, family and peer influences, intermediary determinants of health and structural determinants. The research protocol was approved by the University of Rwanda, College of Medicine and Health Sciences Institutional Ethics Review Board. Results: We generated four interrelated themes:Meaning of PPH: beliefs, knowledge and understanding of PPH:Organizational factors; Caring and family involvement and Perceived risk factors and barriers to PPH prevention. The findings from this study indicate that PPH was poorly understood by women and their partners. Family members and CHWs feel that their role for the prevention of PPH is to get the woman to the health facility on time. The main factors associated with PPH as described by participants were multiparty and retained placenta. Low socioeconomic status and delays to access health care were identified as the main barriers for the prevention of PPH. Conclusions: Addressing the identified factors could enhance early prevention of PPH among childbearing women. Placing emphasis on developing strategies for early detection of women at higher risk of developing PPH, continuous professional development of health care providers, developing educational materials for CHWs and family members could improve the prevention of PPH. A further case control study is warranted to develop a screening tool for early detection predictors to PPH.
Valgus knee bracing may have no long-term effect on pain improvement and functional activity in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Fan Yinuo , Li zhongfeng , Zhang Haitao , Hong Guoju , Wu Zhongshu , Li Weifeng , Chen Lixin , Wu Yunlong , Wei Qiushi , He Wei , Chen Zhenqiu 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: KOA, with a high incidence in old-age population, adversely affects their life quality. The valgus knee bracing is an important physical therapy for KOA, but its clinical effects on pain release and functional improvment are remained unclear. This meta-analysis is to systematically evaluate the clinical outcomes of valgus knee bracing in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods : A meta-analysis of clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on pain and functional changes in patients with KOA after using valgus knee braces. The search period was ranged from the inception of the database to May, 2020. The enrolled research databases included PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Two investigators independently formulated inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria, screened and determined the final enrolled literatures. Then the outcome indicators were extracted and organized from the included literature, and the risk of bias was assessed by Cochrane Handbook 5.0.1.Results :A total of 10 articles were included in this study, including 739 patients. Eight articles were related to the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score, the results showed that RR = -0.29, 95% CI [-0.73, 0.15], P = 0.20; Four articles were related to the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) function score, the results showed that RR = -0.15, 95% CI [-0.41,0.11], P = 0.26; Two articles were related to the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), the results showed that RR = 0.58, 95% CI [-4.25, 5.42], P = 0.81; Three articles were related to the KOOS activities of daily living (KOOS-ADL), the results showed that RR = 0.04, 95% CI [-0.62,0.69], P = 0.91.These results indicated that the valgus knee bracing have no statistically significant in pain and functional activity improvement of patients with KOA. The subgroup analysis showed that the follow-up time was the source of the heterogeneity of the VAS pain score. Conclusion : Our current evidence suggests that valgus knee bracing may not improve pain release and function activates in KOA patients in the long-term period, but only being beneficial to the short-term rehabilitation.
Socioeconomic status inequity in inpatient service utilization based on need among migrants: Evidence from a national study in China
Authors: Wang Yi , Jing Zhengyue , Ding Lulu , Tang Xue , Feng Yuejing , Li Jie , Chen Zhuo , Zhou Chengchao 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Providing equal treatment for those who have the same need for healthcare, regardless of their socioeconomic and cultural background, has become a shared goal among policymakers who strive to improve healthcare. This study aims to identify the socioeconomic status (SES) inequities in inpatient service utilization based on need among migrants by using a nationally representative study in China.Methods: The data used in this study was derived from the 2014 National Internal Migrant Population Dynamic Monitoring Survey collected by the National Health Commission of China. The sampling frame for this study was taken using the stratified multistage random sampling method. All provincial urban belt and key cities were stratified, and 119 strata were finally determined. We used logistic regression method and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition and calculated the concentration index to measure inequities of SES in inpatient service utilization based on need. Sample weights provided in the survey were applied in all the analysis and all standard errors in this study were clustered at the strata level.Results: The total number of the migrants who needed inpatient service told by doctors was 7,592, of which, 1,667 (18.75% of total population) unmet the inpatient service need. Results showed that inpatient service utilization concentrated among high-SES migrants (Concentration Index: 0.036, p<0.001) and the decomposition results suggested that about 44.16% of the total SES gap in inpatient service utilization could be attributed to the gradient effect. After adjusting for other confounding variables, those had high school degree and university degree were more likely to meet the inpatient services need, and the OR values were 1.48 (95% CI 1.07, 2.03, p=0.017) and 2.04 (95% CI 1.45, 2.88, p=0.001), respectively. The OR values for Quartile 3 and Quartile 4 income groups was 1.28 (95% CI 1.01, 1.62, p=0.044) and 1.37 (95% CI 1.02, 1.83, p=0.035), respectively.Conclusion: This study observed an inequity in inpatient service utilization where the utilization concentrates among high SES migrants. It is important for policy makers to be aware of them and more intervention should be conducted.
Humic-acid-driven escape from eye parasites revealed by RNA-seq and target-specific metabarcoding
Authors: Noreikiene Kristina , Ozerov Mikhail , Ahmad Freed , Kõiv Toomas , Kahar Siim , Gross Riho , Sepp Margot , Pellizzone Antonia , Vesterinen Eero J. , Kisand Veljo , Vasemägi Anti 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies are extensively used to dissect the molecular mechanisms of host-parasite interactions in human pathogens. However, ecological studies have yet to fully exploit the power of NGS as a rich source for formulating and testing new hypotheses. Methods: We studied Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) and its eye parasite (Trematoda, Diplostomidae) communities in 14 lakes that differed in humic content in order to explore host-parasite-environment interactions. We hypothesised that high humic content along with low pH would decrease the abundance of the intermediate hosts (gastropods), thus limiting the occurrence of diplostomid parasites in humic lakes. This hypothesis was initially invoked by whole eye RNA-seq data analysis and subsequently tested using PCR-based detection and a novel targeted metabarcoding approach.Results: Whole eye transcriptome results revealed overexpression of immune-related genes and the presence of eye parasite sequences in RNA-seq data obtained from perch living in clear-water lakes. Both PCR-based and targeted-metabarcoding approach showed that perch from humic lakes were completely free from diplostomid parasites, while the prevalence of eye flukes in clear-water lakes that contain low amounts of humic substances was close to 100%, with the majority of NGS reads assigned to Tylodelphys clavata. Conclusions: High intraspecific diversity of T. clavata indicates that massively parallel sequencing of naturally pooled samples represents an efficient and powerful strategy for shedding light on cryptic diversity of eye parasites. Our results demonstrate that perch populations in clear-water lakes experience contrasting eye parasite pressure compared to those from humic lakes, which is reflected by prevalent differences in the expression of immune-related genes in the eye. This study highlights the utility of NGS to discover novel host-parasite-environment interactions and provide unprecedented power to characterize the molecular diversity of cryptic parasites.
Evaluation of the Content Validity Index of the Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index, the Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation and the Thumb Disability Exam in People with Hand Arthritis
Authors: Bobos Pavlos , MacDermid Joy C , Boutsikari Eleni C. , Lalone Emily A. , Ferreira Louis , Grewal Ruby 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index (AUSCAN), the Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) and the Thumb Disability Exam (TDX) are patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) used to assess pain and hand function in patients with hand arthritis. This study evaluated the content validity of PRWHE, AUSCAN and TDX. MethodsThis study enrolled participants with hand arthritis to rate the items of all 3 PROM in terms of relevance and clarity. The Content Validity Index (CVI) was computed for each item in each scale (I-CVI) as well as for the overall scale (S-CVI). Kappa was used to determine the inter-rater agreement among the raters. ResultsOverall, 64 individuals with hand arthritis (27% with OA, 67% with rheumatoid arthritis and 6% with psoriatic arthritis) participated in the study. The I-CVI for all items and all scales was very high (I-CVI > 0.76) and the modified Kappa agreement among the raters demonstrated excellent agreement (k>0.76).The S-CVI for all PROMs was found very high for relevance (PRWHE = 0.85, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.88; TDX = 0.87, 95% CI 0.85 to 0.89 and AUSCAN = 0.92, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.94) and for clarity (PRWHE = 0.95, 95% CI 0.93 to 0.97; TDX = 0.91, 95% CI 0.89 to 0.94 and AUSCAN = 0.99, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.00) respectively. ConclusionsThis study demonstrated very high content validity indices for the PRWHE, AUSCAN, and TDX; with strong consensus across raters. This augments prior statistical evidence supporting statistical measurement properties, to provide support for the content validity.
A New Postural Stability-Indicator to Predict the Level of Fear of Falling in Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Authors: Pourghayoomi Ehsan , Behzadipour Saeed , Ramezani Mehdi , Joghataei Mohammad Taghi , Shahidi Gholamali 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Fear of falling (FoF) is defined as a lasting concern about falling that causes a person to limit or even stop the daily activities that he/she is capable of. Seventy percent of Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients report activity limitations due to FoF. Timely identification of FoF is critical to prevent its additional adverse effects on the quality of life. Self-report questionnaires are commonly used to evaluate the FoF, which may be prone to human error.Objectives: In this study, we attempted to identify a new postural stability-indicator to objectively predict the intensity of FoF and its related behavior(s) in PD patients. Methods: Thirty-eight PD patients participated in the study (mean age, 61.2 years), among whom 10 (26.32%) were identified with low FoF and the rest (73.68%) with high FoF, based on Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I). We used a limit of stability task calibrated to each individual and investigated the postural strategies to predict the intensity of FoF. New parameters (FTRi’s; functional time ratio) were extracted based on the center of pressure presence pattern in different rectangular areas (i = 1, 2, and 3). The task was performed on two heights to investigate FoF related behavior(s). Results: FTR1/2 (the ratio between FTR1 and FTR2) was strongly correlated with the FES-I (r = −0.63, P < 0.001), Pull Test (r = −0.65, p < 0.001), Timed Up and Go test (r = −0.57, p < 0.001), and Berg Balance Scale (r = 0.62, p < 0.001). The model of FTR1/2 was identified as a best-fitting model to predicting the intensity of FoF in PD participants (sensitivity = 96.43%, specificity = 80%), using a threshold level of ≤ 2.83. Conclusions: Using the proposed assessment technique we can accurately predict the intensity of FoF in PD patients. Also, The FTR1/2 index can be potentially considered as a mechanical biomarker to sense the FoF-related postural instability in PD patients.
Knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy program intended to improve public health professionals’ ability to identify and manage perinatal depressive symptoms: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Phoosuwan Nitikorn , Lundberg Pranee C. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: During the perinatal period women lack screening and treatments for perinatal depressive symptoms, while public health professionals (PHPs) in primary care centres (PCCs) need training for identification and management of such symptoms. This quasi-experimental study was aimed at evaluating knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy among PHPs after participating in a Knowledge, Attitude, and Self-efficacy (KAS) program for identification and management of perinatal depressive symptoms.Method: The KAS-program, carried through in Sakonnakhon in north-eastern Thailand, comprised one day of theory and a four-week period of field practice. Thirty-three PHPs from PCCs participated in the program. Twenty-three of them participated in focus group discussions (FGDs). Chi-square for trend, paired-sample T-tests and content analysis were used. Results: Knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy scores increased after the PHPs had fully participated in the KAS-program. Four categories emerged from the FGDs: increased understanding and knowledge, being aware and having a positive attitude, having confidence and ability to work, and need of regular training and feedback.Conclusion: The KAS-program may contribute to giving PHPs in PCCs the knowledge, positive attitude and self-efficacy they need to identify and manage perinatal depressive symptoms. Implementation of the KAS-program to other healthcare professionals such as nurses/midwives is great of interest.