bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the complex circulating immune cell microenvironment in chronic lymphocytic leukemia using patient similarity networks
Authors: Mikulkova Zuzana , Manukyan Gayane , Turcsanyi Peter , Urbanova Renata , Savara Jakub , Ochodkova Eliska , Kudelka Milos , Brychtova Yvona , Molinsky Jan , Simkovic Martin , Starostka David , Novak Jan , Janca Ondrej , Dihel Martin , Ryznerova Pavlina , Mohammad Lekaa , Papajik Tomas , Kriegová Eva 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: The tissue microenvironment in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) plays a key role in promoting neoplastic cell survival, proliferation, and drug resistance. There is a lack of complex characterization of CLL blood microenvironment and its clinical impact. Methods: Immunophenotypic profiles of circulating immune cells in 244 CLL patients (untreated, n=123; novel agents, n=67; previous immunochemotherapy, n=54) and age/sex-matched healthy controls (n=52) were assessed using flow cytometry and analyzed by multivariate patient similarity networks (PSNs). Results: Our study revealed high inter-individual heterogeneity in distribution and activation status of bystander immune cells in CLL, depending on the bulk of CLL cells. High CLL counts were associated with low activation status on circulating monocytes, T and NK cells and vice versa low CLL counts with high activation of immune cells, reaching levels in controls. Regarding treatment, the highest activation of immune cells, particularly of intermediate and non-classical monocytes, was evident in patients treated with novel agents. Clustering and visualization using PSNs confirmed low activation of immune cells in progressive disease, irrespectively of IgHV status and Binet stage. Calculating time-to-event endpoint, patients with high intermediate monocytes (>5.4%), predominantly low activated, were associated with 2.5-fold higher likelihood (95% CI 1.421-4.403, P =0.002) of event than those with low percentage of intermediate monocytes. Conclusions: Activation of circulating immune cells are dependent on the CLL cell counts and used therapy, with the lowest activation in patients with progressive disease. Percentage and activation of intermediate monocytes could be of prognostic value in CLL.
The Role Of Client Feedback, Non-referral, And Facility Supervision On Client Satisfaction With Antiretroviral Services In Abuja, 2015
Authors: Egwuenu Abiodun , Suleman Idris H. , Balogun Muhammad. S. , Adewole Adefisoye , Abubakar Aisha , Gidado Saheed , Nguku Patrick 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
IntroductionIn many developing countries including Nigeria, the private sector has been identified as the main care provider for HIV infection. However technical weaknesses still exist, which have the potential to impact patient satisfaction negatively. Our aims were to describe the characteristics of private health facilities used by ART clients in FCT and determine which health system factors influenced client satisfaction.MethodsThree hundred and thirteen clients on antiretroviral therapy were selected randomly from 6 health facilities via multistage random sampling. Proportions, frequencies and means were used to summarize data. We examined the relationship between health system characteristics and client satisfaction with odds ratios and estimated the model for satisfaction via binary logistic regression, with p set at ≤ 0.05.ResultsA total of 259 (82.7%) respondents were satisfied with the services. A total of 299 (95.5%) respondents utilized secondary care private hospitals. Health system factors associated with client satisfaction were obtaining patient feedback [OR:5.5, 95%CI:1.3-23.3] and provision of ART services for at least 5 years [OR:3.3, 95%CI:1.8-6.1]. ART clinics with at least one adherence counsellor[OR:3.2, 95%CI:1.6-6.1] and liased with community-based ART health workers[OR:3.3, 95%CI:1.8-6.1] had higher odds of satisfying their clients. Referral of ART patients to other hospitals[OR:0.22, 95%CI:0.07-0.7] due to unavailability of some ART-specific services was associated with dissatisfaction.ConclusionMajority of the ART clients in private hospitals were satisfied. Collecting client feedback on ART services provided should be prioritized and the range of HIV treatment services provided in private hospitals be increased, to reduce patient referrals.
Comparison of genomic DNA extraction methods to obtain high DNA quality from barnyard grass (Echinochloa colona)
Authors: Salgotra Romesh Kumar , Chauhan Bhagirath Singh 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: The study of weed genomics is important for the effective management of weeds to enhance crop yield. A rapid, inexpensive and high quality DNA extraction is needed for genomic and other molecular studies. Here, we describe the protocols for DNA extraction from two different parts of the Echinochloa colona plant using modified cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and a commercial kit.Results: In the study, it was observed that the DNA extracted from plant leaf tissues and dry seeds with a modified CTAB protocol was of good quality, with no contaminations of polysaccharides and essential oils. Quality of DNA extracted from dry seeds was comparable with that of plant leaves under both protocols. The extracted DNA from both plant parts was successfully amplified by PCR using the EPSPS microsatellite marker. Compared to the protocol of DNA extracted from leaf tissue, dry seeds will save time and other valuable resources. Moreover, the same protocols can be implemented for the extraction of high-quality DNA for molecular studies in other plant species where a large amount of polysaccharides, secondary metabolites and essential oils are present.Conclusions: Modified methods of DNA extraction from dry seeds are efficient and time-saving which can be used in genotypic and other molecular approaches. High-quality DNA can be isolated from plant leaf tissues using modified CTAB and commercial kits, however, DNA extracted from dry seeds will save time and other valuable resources.
Vitamin C protects porcine oocytes from microcystin-LR toxicity during maturation
Authors: Zhang Xue , Zhou Changyin , Li Weijian , Li Juan , Wu Wangjun , Tao Jingli , Liu Honglin 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR) is the most toxic cyanotoxin found in water bodies. Microcystins are produced as secondary products of cyanobacteria metabolism. They have a stable structure, and can bioaccumulate in living organisms. Humans and livestock who drink fresh water containing MC-LR can be poisoned. However, few studies have reported the effects of MC-LR exposure on livestock or human reproduction.Results: We used porcine oocytes as the model to explore the effects of MC-LR on oocyte maturation, and studied the impact of vitamin C (VC) administration on MC-LR‐induced meiosis defects. Exposure to MC-LR significantly restricted cumulus cell expansion and decreased first polar body extrusion. Further studies showed that MC-LR exposure led to meiosis arrest by disturbing cytoskeleton dynamics with MC-LR exposed oocytes displaying aberrant spindle organization, low levels of acetylate α‐tubulin, and disturbed actin polymerization. Additionally, MC-LR exposure impaired cytoplasmic maturation by disturbing mitochondria distribution. Moreover, MC-LR also produced abnormal epigenetic modifications, and induced high levels of oxidative stress and DNA damage. The administration of VC provided partial protection from all of the defects observed in oocytes exposed to MC-LR. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that MC-LR has a toxic effect on oocyte meiosis through the generation of excessive ROS levels and DNA damage. Supplementation of VC was able to protect against MC-LR-induced oocyte damage and represents a potential therapeutic strategy to improve the quality of MC-LR-exposed oocytes.
Epidemiologic characteristics of a Hungarian subpopulation of Huntington’s Disease patients
Authors: Despotov Katalin , Zádori Dénes , Veres Gábor , Jakab Katalin , Gárdián Gabreilla , Tóth Eszter , Kincses Tamás Zsigmond , Vecsei Laszlo , Ajtay Andras , Bereczki Dániel , Klivenyi Peter 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: recent advances in the therapeutic options may prevent deterioration related to Huntington’s disease (HD) even at the presymptomatic stage. However, a well-characterized patient population is essential for screening and outcome monitoring as well. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of a Hungarian subpopulation of HD patients and mutation carriers diagnosed at the University of Szeged.Methods: we conducted a search for International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code G10H0 in the local medical database for the period between 1 January 1998 and 31 December 2018.Results: we identified 90 HD cases (male: 45, female: 45) and 34 asymptomatic carriers (male: 15, female: 19). The median age of onset was 45 years (range: 16-79). There were 3 cases of juvenile (3.3%), and 7 of late disease onset (7.8%). The median repeat length was 43 (range: 36-70) for the pathological and 19 for the non-pathological alleles (range: 9-35). 17.5% of the pathological alleles was in the decreased penetrance range, while 7% of non-pathological alleles was intermediate.Conclusions: the genetic and clinical features of the population examined in present study was in line with the previous Hungarian study as well as with international literature, the exceptions being the higher ratio of reduced penetrance and intermediate alleles.
Fecal markers in Multiple Sclerosis Sex makes the difference
Authors: Becker Anouck , Abuazab Mosab , Schwiertz Andreas , Walter Silke , Faßbender Klaus , Fousse Mathias , Unger Marcus M. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is primarily considered as a neuro-inflammatory CNS disease. Yet, experimental data suggest a role for gut microbiota and microbial products like short chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the pathogenesis of MS. Very recently a high-ranked publication reported beneficial effects of propionate, a SCFA, in MS patients. Based on experimental and preliminary human data, we hypothesized that not only the gut microbiota but also microbial products and fecal inflammatory markers might be altered in MS.Methods. In a pilot study, we investigated fecal markers (short chain fatty acids, calprotectin) as well as clinical markers in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) under different therapeutic regimes and compared the results to age-matched control subjects.Results. We observed a non-significant reduction in fecal SCFA in RRMS patients compared to control subjects. Fecal calprotectin concentrations did not differ significantly between MS patients and control subjects. We observed a significant reduction in fecal SCFA concentrations in women compared to men.Conclusions. We conclude that the observed sex-associated difference in fecal SCFA concentrations might be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of MS, especially when taking into account the female predominance in MS. We suggest investigating the role of SCFA in MS in a longitudinal study (starting in drug-naïve patients) in larger cohorts of MS patients with defined therapeutic regimes. Such a study would allow to distinguish between drug effects and disease-immanent effects and might help to identify a potentially modifiable sex-associated contributing factor in MS.Trial registration. Registered by the local Ethics Committee (Reg.Nr. 81/18, Ethikkommission der Aerztekammer des Saarlandes, Saarbruecken, Germany).
Uptake of routine vitamin A supplementation for children in Humbo district, Southern Ethiopia: Community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Kassa Getnet , Mesfin Addisalem , Gebremedin Samson 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
In low- and middle-income countries routine vitamin A supplementation (VAS) is a key strategy for reducing vitamin A deficiency and mortality and morbidity of preschool children. However, in Ethiopia, there is paucity of evidence regarding the level and determinants of the uptake of the supplement. This study was designed to assess the coverage and predictors of VAS among preschool children in Humbo district, Southern Ethiopia.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2016. A total of 840 mothers/caregivers having children 6–59 months of age were selected using multistage cluster sampling technique from six rural villages implementing routine VAS program. Data were collected using interviewer administered questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of uptake of VAS. The outputs are presented using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with the respective 95% confidence interval (CI).
Results
The coverage of VAS was 75.0% (95% CI: 72.1–77.9). Better knowledge of mothers about the importance of the supplement (AOR: 1.49, 1.02–2.17), obtaining VAS related information from frontline community health workers (AOR: 1.51, 1.34–2.72) than health professionals and being from households in the “rich” wealth tertile (AOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.07–3.03) were positively associated with uptake VAS.
Conclusion
The VAS coverage of the area was approaching the expected national target of 80%. However, the uptake can be enhanced though awareness creation and improving socio-economic status of the community.
Triboelectric Touch Sensor for Position Mapping During Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Jeong Jae Bum , Kim Hyeok , YOO JUN-IL 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: In this research, a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) was utilized to determine if a pressure-based sensor could detect bearing friction in a total hip arthroplasty (THA) and detect the contact of specific areas during ROM checks. Methods: In order to realize the flexible switch sensor, one of the elastomers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), was introduced from the solution. Then, copper tape, which is made of metal, was attached to the produced PDMS film to make an electrode and connection was made with a wire. Afterwards, the fabricated TENG sensors are measured with output voltages through an oscilloscope. Results: The pressure-based sensor shows capability to sense bearing friction. In more detail, the TENG embedded in four different sides of the trial exhibits up to 1 V from peak-to-peak. Moreover, these flexible touch sensors with TENG describes a peak signal in output voltage which should lead to extremely sensitive detection of bearing friction induced by the THA. Conclusions: The conclusion of this study is that the TENG pressure-based sensor was able to detect friction in the THA bearing and detect the contact area of ​​the bearing surface in the range of motion (ROM). Further research will be carried out to develop biocompatible sensors and to enable precise pressure-sensing.
A prospective study to assess the value of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in the management of paediatric poisoning at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Washaya Norbertta , Evans Alicia , Muloiwa Rudzani , Smith Peter , Buys Heloise 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Introduction Paediatric poisoning is a common presentation to emergency departments worldwide. There is a paucity of data on the role of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), in the management of paediatric poisoning in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). In high-income countries, most studies are retrospective, and few include children.ObjectiveThe study describes the prevalence of LC-MS/MS diagnosed poisoning and the management of paediatric poisoning at Red Cross Children’s Hospital, South Africa.MethodsChildren admitted with suspected poisoning between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017, were recruited. All patients had a urine and/or blood sample sent for LC-MS/MS toxicology. Data collected included demographic data, clinical features, investigations, management, outcome and social interventions.Results152 children, with median age of 39 (IQR 25 -61) months were enrolled of whom 128 (84%) were poisoning cases. Of the 128 poisoning cases, 88 (69%) presented with a history of a known toxin, 16(12%) an unknown toxin and 24(19%) were cases of occult poisoning. LC-MS/MS was able to identify a toxin in 92% of the cases of occult poisoning. In those who had presented with a seemingly known toxin, LC-MS/MS found a different toxin in 15 cases. LC-MS/MS was also able to detect multiple drugs in 40 patients. Of the poisoning cases, 6% were attempted homicide cases and 5% attempted suicide cases. No children died. Individualized social interventions were instituted in poisoning cases. Emergency placement for safety reasons was required in 6 children.ConclusionLC-MS/MS is useful in identifying cases of occult poisoning; identifying patients who have ingested multiple toxins and/or an unknown substance and when targeted towards child protection. As LC-MS/MS is an expensive test, it should be used judiciously in LMICs.
Group assessment of residents’ clinical skills using Case-based Discussions is feasible, highly valued and moreover fosters learning
Authors: Johansen Rakel Fuglsang , Nielsen René Buch , Malling Bente , Storm Hanne 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background Assessment of residents’ clinical skills using Case-based Discussion traditionally involves a one-to-one discussion with a supervisor. This entails a subjective, and maybe unequal, assessment of the resident, which can only be overcome with the use of multiple assessors. The purpose of this study was to explore residents’ and assessors’ perception of a group-assessment concept.Methods Eleven to fifteen residents in a medical department met 4 times (every 3rd month) over 1 year for 5 hours each time. The residents took turns presenting clinical cases within a predefined topic and discussed it with peers and assessors (diagnosis, differential diagnosis, ethical considerations etc.). Four assessors (specialists in internal medicine) participated in the discussion and together assessed the residents` clinical skills. An external consultant observed the group-assessment several times and conducted semi-structured interviews with the residents as well as the assessors. Notes from the observations and transcribed interviews were analyzed using an inductive approach looking for participants’ perceptions of the concept.Results Both residents and assessors preferred the group-assessment to the individual assessment. Since there were several assessors, the group-assessments were more consistent and regarded more resource-efficient and manageable than one-to-one assessments. The level of discussion was perceived to be higher in the group discussions compared to one-to-one discussions. All residents gained new knowledge during their assessment and in addition, also reported having learned from listening to the assessment of their peers. Assessors reported gaining new knowledge as well.Conclusions Group-assessment through Case-based Discussions is a good way to structure assessment of residents` clinical skills. The quality of the assessment process seems to be increased and is likely to be more objective than individual assessment. Group-assessment is feasible and acceptable, and additionally fosters learning for all participating doctors in the department.
Steroid therapy does not affect the rate of indeterminate results with the T-SPOT.TB interferon gamma release assay
Authors: Schulz Anna-Teresa , MacKenzie Colin Rae 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: The underlying causes of indeterminate (invalid) interferon-gamma release assays are not clear and predictors of indeterminate results do not exist. To date the effect of steroid concomitant therapy on the rate of indeterminate tests is unknown. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the results of 1339 tests, including clinical data from patient records, of which 914 were suitable for complete data analysis.Results: 130 (15.2 %) tests were positive and 719 (83.8 %) were negative, 9 tests (1 %) were borderline positive (according to manufacturer’s definition). Indeterminate results (56 (6.1 %) arose from failure of the negative control in 24 (42.9 %) and failure of the positive control in 32 (57.1 %) tests. Of 914 patients, 196 were taking cortisone at the time of testing; among these patients 180 (91.8 %) returned a valid result and 16 (8.2 %) an indeterminate result compared to 40 indeterminate tests of 718 (5.6 %) results from patients not on corticosteroid therapy at the time of testing (p = 0.180), (relative risk [RR] 1.46, [95 % CI 0.84 to 2.56]). No significant difference in the rate of indeterminate results was found with immunosuppressive diseases or medications other than with HIV; among HIV-positive patients, 11 (11.7 %) had an indeterminate test result, compared to 45 (5.5 %) in HIV-negative individuals (p =0.017, relative risk [RR] 2.13, [95 % CI 1.14 to 3.98]).Conclusions: steroid therapy does not have an effect whereas HIV positivity has a negative effect on the number of indeterminate results in the T-Spot.TB test.
Osteolipoma of Parotid Gland: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Hu Jing , Xie Nan , Zhuang Zehang , Wang Cheng 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background

Osteolipoma is an uncommon benign tumor containing mature adipose tissue with bone metaplasia foci. It is rarely observed in head and neck region as compared to the lipoma, especially in the region of parotid gland.
Case presentation:

We report the first case of intraparotid osteolipoma with its clinical, radiographic and pathological findings. A 47-year-old men presented with an immovable mass in his left cheek with a 10-year evolution. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed a 3.2-cm fat-containing mass involving in the left parotid. The patient was taken to the operating room for excision of the mass and the final pathologic diagnosis was osteolipoma. Due to its rarity and clinical significance, we also reviewed the osteolipoma presenting in major salivary gland regions.
Conclusion

Intraparotid osteolipoma is an extremely rare neoplasm originating from adipogenic tissue, which should be taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis of parotid tumor.
Skin microbiome in healthy dogs: from the surface to the inner layers
Authors: García-Fonticoba Rocío , Ferrer Lluis , Francino Olga , Cusco Anna 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background. Studies using highly sensitive molecular techniques have detected bacterial communities below the human epidermis. Depending on their abundance and composition, this finding could be clinically relevant. This possibility, however, has not been investigated in the dog so far. The aim of this study was to determine if bacteria can be detected in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue of healthy dogs using two different approaches: traditional cultures and massive DNA sequencing of the V4 region of bacterial 16S rRNA gene using next-generation sequencing (NGS).Results. Seven healthy dogs were included in the study, and two sets of samples were collected from each subject. Sample sets were composed of a 6-mm abdominal skin biopsy, including epidermis, dermis, and subcutis, a skin surface swab, and an environmental blank sample for contamination control. One set of samples from each dog was submitted for bacterial culture and the other one for bacterial DNA amplification and sequencing. Five different bacterial genera (Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Corynebacterium, Streptococcus, and Enterococcus) were isolated in five out of the seven skin surface swab samples with traditional culture methods, while no growth was obtained from the other two samples. Although some DNA could be amplified from epidermal, dermal, and subcutaneous tissue samples, the results of the NGS were similar to those of the blanks.Conclusion. When investigated with traditional culture methods, the dermis and subcutaneous tissue of healthy dogs are sterile. NGS techniques lead to the detection of some bacterial DNA which, although similar to the signal detected in blanks, does not support the presence of a microbiome in dermis or subcutaneous tissue.