bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic value of [18F]FDG PET/MRI for staging in patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: Tsuyoshi Hideaki , Tsujikawa Tetsuya , Yamada Shizuka , Okazawa Hidehiko , Yoshida Yoshio 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic potential of PET/MRI with 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) in ovarian cancer.Materials and Methods: Participants comprised 103 patients with suspected ovarian cancer underwent pretreatment [18F]FDG PET/MRI, contrast-enhanced CT (ceCT) and pelvic dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (ceMRI). Diagnostic performance of [18F]FDG PET/MRI and ceMRI for assessing the characterization and the extent of the primary tumor (T stage) and [18F]FDG PET/MRI and ceCT for assessing nodal (N stage) and distant (M stage) metastases was evaluated by two experienced readers. Histopathological and follow-up imaging results were used as the gold standard. The McNemar test was employed for statistical analysis.Results: Accuracy for the characterization of suspected ovarian cancer was significantly better for [18F]FDG PET/MRI (92.5%) [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84–0.95] than for ceMRI (80.6%) (95%CI 0.72–0.83) (p <0.05). Accuracy for T status was 96.4% (95%CI 0.96–0.96) and 92.9% (95%CI 0.93–0.93) for [18F]FDG PET/MRI and ceMRI/ceCT, respectively. Patient-based accuracies for N and M status were 100% (95%CI 0.88–1.00) and 100% (95%CI 0.88–1.00) for [18F]FDG PET/MRI and 85.2% (95%CI 0.76–0.85) and 30.8% (95%CI 0.19–0.31) for ceCT and M staging representing significant differences (p<0.01). Lesion-based sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for N status were 78.6% (95%CI 0.57–0.91), 95.7% (95%CI 0.93–0.97) and 93.9% (95%CI 0.89–0.97) for [18F]FDG PET/MRI and 42.9% (95%CI 0.24–0.58), 96.6% (95%CI 0.94–0.98) and 90.8% (95%CI 0.87–0.94) for ceCT. Conclusions: [18F]FDG PET/MRI offers better sensitivity and specificity for the characterization and M staging than ceMRI and ceCT, and diagnostic value for T and N staging equivalent to ceMRI and ceCT, suggesting that [18F]FDG PET/MRI might represent a useful diagnostic alternative to conventional imaging modalities in ovarian cancer.
A Multi-Objective Model-Based Vertical Handoff Algorithm for Heterogeneous Wireless Networks
Authors: Wang Shumin , Deng Honggui , Xiong Rujing , Liu Gang , Liu Yang , Liu Hongmei 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
An optimized algorithm based on multi-objective optimization model is proposed to solve the problem that existing vertical handoff algorithms do not comprehensively consider the impact of users and the network during handoff process. We build Markov chain model of base station to calculate a more accurate network state. Then a multi-objective optimization model is derived to maximize the value of the network state and the user data receiving rate. The multi-objective genetic algorithm NSGA-II is finally employed to turn the model into a final vertical handoffff strategy. The results of the simulation for throughput and blocking rate of networks demonstrate our algorithm significantly increases the system throughput and reduces the blocking rate compared with the existing vertical switching strategy.
Validation of a Health Promotion Program for Infertile Couples with Unsuccessful Treatment: A Delphi Study
Authors: Zagami Samira Ebrahimzadeh , Janghorban Roksana , Bazaz Seyed Mojtaba Mousavi , Amirian Maliheh , Roudsari Robab Latifnejad 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Designing a health promotion program for infertile couples with unsuccessful treatment can play an important role in promoting their health in physical, social, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. There are different techniques for validation of programs. In this study, the Delphi technique was used to validate a health promotion program developed for infertile couples with unsuccessful treatment.Purpose: Validating the health promotion program for infertile couples with unsuccessful treatment using the Delphi technique.Methods: In this study, three rounds of Delphi were conducted with attendance of 17 specialists in different fields to validate the content of a health promotion program, which was developed based on a grounded theory study, review of literature, and focus group discussion. The selection of specialists was done by purposive and snowball sampling. In the first round of Delphi, the experts were asked to give feedback on the program draft. After analysis of the first round data and adding the new suggestions, in round two, members were asked to grade the value of statements based on the Likert scale to state their agreement. In the third round, the discussion on disagreements and reaching consensus was accomplished. Results: The program was validated by all participants with 6 main themes and 45 strategies including the stakeholders' awareness and attitude (11 strategies), fair financial participation (4 strategies), improving the executive process (6 strategies), psychological and counseling support (11 strategies), resolving legal, managerial, religious and ethical challenges (6 strategies), and logistic facilities (7 strategies) at a consensus level of at least 70%.Conclusions: The validated program proposes clear and functional strategies for implementation of a health promotion program for infertile couples with unsuccessful treatment.
Morphological and molecular characterization of Sarcocystis wenzeli in chickens (Gallus gallus) in China
Authors: Pan Jing , Ma Chunli , Huang Zhumei , Ye Yulong , Zeng Hongxia , Deng Shuangsheng , Hu Junjie , Tao Jianping 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: There has been considerable confusion concerning the number and classification of Sarcocystis spp. in chickens. Scarce nucleotide data of Sarcocystis spp. from chickens are provided in GenBank. The study aimed to investigate the morphological and molecular characteristics of Sarcocystis spp. found in chickens in China.Methods: Tissues from 33 chickens were collected in 2019. Sarcocysts were observed using light (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Individual sarcocysts from different chickens were selected for DNA extraction, and five loci, 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, ITS-1 region (ITS-1), the mitochondrial cox1 gene (cox1), and the apicoplastic rpoB gene (rpoB) , were amplified from each sarcocyst, sequenced and analyzed.Results: Only S. wenzeli was found in 14 of 33 (42.4%) chickens. Under LM, the sarcocysts were microscopic and exhibited palisade-like villar protrusions measuring 1.5–2.8 μm. Ultrastructurally, the sarcocyst wall contained numerous stubby hill-like villar protrusions. The protrusions included scattered microtubules, which extended from the tips of the protrusions into the ground substance. The five loci were successfully sequenced and deposited in GenBank. At 18S rDNA, ITS-1 and cox1, the most similar sequences in GenBank were those of Sarcocystis sp. obtained from the brains of chickens, i.e., 99.9–100%, 98.1–98.5% and 99.3% identity, respectively. The five loci (18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, ITS-1, cox1and rpoB) showed different levels of interspecific sequence similarity with other closely related species of Sarcocystis (e.g., 99.8%, 99.0–99.2%, 89.3-89.7%, 98.5%, and 97.5%, respectively, with S. anasi). Phylogenetic analysis based on four of the loci (18S rDNA, cox1, rpoB and ITS-1) revealed that S. wenzeli formed an independent clade with Sarcocystis spp. that employ geese or ducks as intermediate hosts and canines as the known or presumed definitive host.Conclusions: The sequences of 28S rDNA and rpoB reported here constitute the first records of genetic markers of Sarcocystis spp. in chickens. Based on molecular analysis, S. wenzeli might be responsible for the neurological disease in chickens, and ITS-1 and rpoB are more suitable for discriminating it from closely related Sarcocystis spp. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that S. wenzeli presents a close relationship with Sarcocystis spp. in geese or ducks.
Patient Participation in Cancer Network Governance: A Six-year Case Study
Authors: Tremblay Dominique , Touati Nassera , Usher Susan , Bilodeau Karine , Pomey Marie-Pascale , Lévesque Lise 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Patient participation in decision-making has become a hallmark of responsive healthcare systems. Cancer programs in many countries have formally committed to involving people living with and beyond cancer (PLC) at multiple levels of network-based services. However, PLC participation in the governance of these networks remains highly variable for reasons that are, as yet, poorly understood. This study explores how PLC participation takes shape within cancer network governance. Methods: This case study, using a qualitative approach in a natural setting, aimed to identify mechanisms that enable PLC participation in governance. It was conducted over six years in four local cancer networks in Québec (Canada), where PLC representation was prescribed by the Cancer Directorate. Data were collected from documents, meeting observations, and interviews with actors (n=89) involved in national and local cancer governance committees: policymakers, managers, clinicians and PLC. These data were triangulated and iteratively analysed according to a framework based on functions of collaborative governance in the network context. Results: Main mechanisms enabling PLC participation are: 1) emphasis on patient-centred care as a network objective; 2) opportunities to shape mandated PLC representation into participation; and 3) recognition of PLC knowledge in decision-making. The shared vision of person-centred care facilitates PLC participation. The quality of participation improves through changes in how committee meetings are conducted, and through the establishment of a national forum in which PLC pool their experience, develop skills and establish a common voice on priority issues. PLC knowledge is especially valued around particular challenges such as designing integrated care trajectories and overcoming barriers to accessing care. These three mechanisms interact to enable PLC participation in governance and are activated to varying extents in each local network context.Conclusions: This study reveals that mandating PLC representation on governance structures is a powerful context element enabling participation, but that it also delineates which governance functions are open to influence from PLC participation. While the activation of mechanisms is context dependent, the insights from this study in Québec are transferable to cancer networks in other jurisdictions seeking to embed PLC participation in decision-making.
Long non-coding RNA PTPRG-AS1 promotes cell tumorigenicity in epithelial ovarian cancer by decoying microRNA-545-3p and consequently enhancing HDAC4 expression
Authors: Shi Juanjuan , Xu Xijian , Zhang Dan , Zhang Jiuyan , Yang Hui , Li Chang , Li Rui , Wei Xuan , Luan Wenqing , Liu Peishu 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background Long non-coding RNA PTPRG antisense RNA 1 (PTPRG-AS1) deregulation has been reported in various human malignancies and identified as an important modulator of cancer development. Few reports have focused on the detailed role of PTPRG-AS1 in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and its underlying mechanism. This study aimed to determine the physiological function of PTPRG-AS1 in EOC. A series of experiments were also performed to identify the mechanisms through which PTPRG-AS1 exerts its function in EOC. Methods Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine PTPRG-AS1 expression in EOC tissues and cell lines. PTPRG-AS1 was silenced in EOC cells and studied with respect to cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. The putative miRNAs that target PTPRG-AS1 were predicted using bioinformatics analysis and further confirmed in luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Results Our data verified the upregulation of PTPRG-AS1 in EOC tissues and cell lines. High PTPRG-AS1 expression was associated with shorter overall survival in patients with EOC. Functionally, EOC cell proliferation, migration, invasion in vitro, and tumor growth in vivo were suppressed by PTPRG-AS1 silencing. In contrast, cell apoptosis was promoted by loss of PTPRG-AS1. Regarding the mechanism, PTPRG-AS1 could serve as a competing endogenous RNA in EOC cells by decoying microRNA-545-3p (miR-545-3p), thereby elevating histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) expression. Furthermore, rescue experiments revealed that PTPRG-AS1 knockdown-mediated effects on EOC cells were, in part, counteracted by the inhibition of miR-545-3p or restoration of HDAC4. Conclusions PTPRG-AS1 functioned as an oncogenic lncRNA that aggravated the malignancy of EOC through the miR-545-3p/HDAC4 ceRNA network. Thus, targeting the PTPRG-AS1/miR-545-3p/HDAC4 pathway may be a novel strategy for EOC anticancer therapy.
Prenatal and Postnatal Diagnosis and Phenotype of 8p23.2p22 Duplication in One Family
Authors: Shi Panlai , Wang Conghui , Zheng Yuting , Kong Xiangdong 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background Distal 8p duplication is rare, but clinically significant.Methods A family has an induced labor fetal (II-2) for increased nuchal translucency (3.5mm) at 12 weeks gestation and detecting a 16.22Mb deletion of 8p23.2p22 by copy number variation sequencing (CNV-seq). Hence, the family requested family analysis and prenatal diagnosis of subject II-3. All family members underwent CNV-seq, karyotyping and FISH testing.Results II-1 and II-3 were found to have a 16.22Mb duplication of 8p23.2p22, containing the 8p23.1 duplication syndrome region, inherited from their father, a carrier with a translocation of 8p22 and 22q13. It’s confirmed that duplication site was located on chromosome 22p13 by combining the results of CNV-seq, karyotype and FISH. II-1 is a 7.5 year old boy. At one month old, he was diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect and treated using surgically at age four. His growth and intelligence developed well, and he performed well in school. His primary issue is an inability to distinguish between the flat tongue and warped tongue in speech. II-3 had a normal ultrasonic index until 26 weeks gestation. The family wants keep the pregnancy, providing us with the opportunity to evaluate the effects of 8p23.2p22 duplication in comparison with the brother (II-1).Conclusion Our study makes a significant contribution to the literature because this relatively rare condition can have significant phenotypical consequences, and an understanding of the inheritance and variability of phenotypes caused by this mutation is essential to an increased understanding of the condition.
Hindsight is 2020 Vision: A Characterisation of the Global Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Warne David , Ebert Anthony , Drovandi Christopher , Hu Wenbiao , Mira Antonietta , Mengersen Kerrie 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background The global impact of COVID-19 and the country-specific responses to the pandemic provide an unparalleled opportunity to learn about different patterns of the outbreak and interventions. We model the global pattern of trajectories of reported COVID-19 cases during the primary response period, with the aim of learning from the past to prepare for the future. Methods Using Bayesian methods, we analyse the response to the COVID-19 outbreak for 158 countries for the period 22 January to 9 June 2020. This encompasses the period in which many countries imposed a variety of response measures and initial relaxation strategies. Instead of modelling specific intervention types and timings for each country explicitly, we adopt a stochastic epidemiological model including a feedback mechanism on virus transmission to capture complex nonlinear dynamics arising from continuous changes in community behaviour in response to rising case numbers. We analyse the overall effect of interventions and community responses across diverse regions. This approach mitigates explicit consideration of issues such as period of infectivity and public adherence to government restrictions. Results Countries with the largest cumulative case tallies are characterised by a delayed response, whereas countries that avoid substantial community transmission during the period of study responded quickly. Countries that recovered rapidly also have a higher case identification rate and small numbers of undocumented community transmission at the early stages of the outbreak. We also demonstrate that uncertainty in numbers of undocumented infections dramatically impacts the risk of second waves. Our approach is also effective at pre-empting potential second waves and flare-ups. Conclusions We demonstrate the utility of modelling to interpret community behaviour in the early epidemic stages. Two lessons learnt that are important for the future are: i) countries that imposed strict containment measures early in the epidemic fared better with respect to numbers of reported cases; and ii) broader testing is required early in the epidemic to understand the magnitude of undocumented infections and recover rapidly. We conclude that clear patterns of containment are essential prior to relaxation of restrictions and show that modelling can provide insights to this end.
Ethnobotanical Survey of Local Wisdom Knowledge on Medicinal Plants Used by the Traditional Phouthai Ethnic Group in NaKeu Village, Hinboun District, Khammouan Province, Lao PDR
Authors: Khambaya Khamphilavong , Zhang Lili , Kang Yongxiang , Li Hua , Wang Liru , Muththanthirige Nishantha , Samontry Channy , Muhammad Awais , Phangthavong Souksamone 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Plants have been a part of rural area’s people life since prehistoric time, plants is important in the traditional cultures in the worldwide where human used it from birth to end of life. IdigenThis study was carried out to explore and recorded the plants and part used of plants for treating numerous people illness and disease by the traditional healers of the Phouthai ethnic group in Nakeu village, Hinboun district, Khammouan province, middle part Lao PDR for medicinal plants purposes. The current study was conducted, first, to identify plant species used as a remedy for human illness, diseases and health improve, and secondly to determine plant parts used, the technique of preparation and religious belief on the preferred source of healthcare an around Hinboun district, Khammouane province, Lao PDR.Methods: Ethnobotanical data for this paper were gathering from 03 traditional healers, and 69 households, therefore including the household of both gender (husband or wife), and across different level of education, age group, as well as the level of experience and knowledge of medicinal plants use. Plant specimens were collected during field survey which had been collected from natural wild plant and home gardens, information on each medicinal plant was recorded by using the data capture form.Results: We found 79 medicinal plants species, 51 families, and can’t identifies 2 species. Among the tree 44 species, 55.70 %; shrub 20 species, 25.32 %; liana 12 species, 15.19 %; and gasses 3 species, 3.8 %, were used to treat 34 sicknesses. A designation of all recorded species including the plant family names, dialect names, part used, and process to preparation of treatment. The roots are the plant part most commonly used (36.70%), followed by the stem (25.31%), leaves (10.12%), liana (10.12%), whole plant (6.32%), fruits (6.32%), and bark (3.79%). The medicinal plants are prepared using dried plant parts while some other species are using in fresh form. Boiling, soaking with cold water or alcohol, crushing, and burning are main methods of preparation.Conclusion: In this study, 79 medicinal plant species were documented as use in the treatment of different common sickness including stomach problem (gastrointestinal, flatulence, diarrhea, detox), kidney infections, fever, dysmenorrheal postpartum tonic, nervous system, skin disease, health tonic, lever infections, heart disease, dressing wounds, and others.
Accessibility of Cancer Treatment Services for Indigenous Australians in the Northern Territory: Perspectives of Patients and Care Providers
Authors: Anderson Kate M , Diaz Abbey , Parikh Darshit Rajeshkumar , Garvey Gail 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The poorer cancer outcomes of Indigenous Australians in Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) compared with their non-Indigenous counterparts is partially due to diminished access to cancer treatment services (CTS). The accessibility of health care is a multidimensional construct, including physical, logistical, psychosocial and cultural dimensions. While previous research has identified specific areas of reduced access to CTS for Indigenous Australians, the higher burden of cancer borne by Indigenous Australians warrants a more comprehensive understanding of access to CTS in the NT.Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore and map the accessibility of CTS for Indigenous Australians in the NT and to identify key access barriers.Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods convergent design to explore and map the accessibility of one CTS (CTS-NT) that services a large number of Indigenous Australians in the NT. Patient and care provider views were included. Patient perspectives were obtained via secondary analysis of data from open- and closed-questions from 75 face-to-face interviews with Indigenous Australian adults attending the CTS-NT. Care provider perspectives were obtained via primary analysis of data from 29 face-to-face semi-structured interviews with care providers and staff working at CTS-NT. Data were analysed to identify issues of accessibility informed by Leveque and colleagues’ conceptual framework of access to health care, which comprises five dimensions of accessibility of the health service and the ability of Indigenous patients to interact with these dimensions to generate access. Applied thematic analysis was conducted on the qualitative data and descriptive analysis was conducted on the quantitative data.Results: The analysis of the patient and care provider reports identified multiple access barriers across all five dimensions including: inadequate preparation of Indigenous cancer patients for treatment; delayed and complicated commencement of treatment; dislocation from home; competing priorities; a scarcity of Indigenous care providers and staff; a lack of culturally-relevant care; challenges associated with language, accommodation, transport and finance; and disjointed and fraught relationships with care providers. These barriers posed significant challenges to Indigenous patients maintaining their engagement with treatment.Conclusions: This study provides a valuable snapshot of the barriers facing this population across the five dimensions of health care access. Urgent action in addressing these issues is required at individual, service and state levels.