bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Three New Species of Cortinarius From Kashmir Himalayan Coniferous Forests Based On Morphological And Molecular Evidence
Authors: Ahmed Sheikh Sajad , Reshi Zafar A. , Jan Bushra , Andrabi Khurshid I. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Cortinarius is the largest genus of mushroom forming fungi with several subgenera having ectomycorrhizal associations with coniferous trees and other plants. In view of limited studies on this speciose genus from the Himalayan region, a morpho-molecular phylogenetic approach was employed to study this taxon. Phylogenetic analysis and Bayesian inference of nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer region ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS barcode) separated these sequences along with the identical sequences from Gene bank into three distinct clads with high bootstrap values suggesting the possibility of new taxa. The new species were found to possess some diagnostic features that separated them from other closely related species in each section. Based on our study in the Kashmir Himalayan forests, we report three new species of Cortinarius from the Indian subcontinent. The identified species, C. cibum, C. neocephalixus, and C. nigricans belong to subgenera Myxacium, Phlegmacium and Telamonia. A taxonomic description of morphological characters is also provided for each new taxon. This study marks the beginning in studying the Cortinarius genus in Kashmir Himalaya using a combination of nuc rDNA ITS barcode approach together with morphological characters and microscopic spore analysis. The current study will help in filling the knowledge gaps in the study of Cortinarius and will further enrich the public DNA database for ease of comparative studies throughout the world.
Effect of Early Return to Work After Laparoscopic Total Extraperitoneal Hernia Repair: a Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study
Authors: Tai Ting-En , Chou An-Chi , Lin Ching-Che , Wu Chih-Kuan , Tsai Yao-Chou 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThis study compares the outcomes of early and late return to work after laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (TEP).MethodsBetween March 2008 and December 2019, we reviewed 506 cases who underwent laparoendoscopic total extraperitoneal hernia repair (TEP). Of these, 231 cases, who returned to work within one week after surgery, were classified as the early group, and 275 cases, who had no job or returned to work after longer than one week, were classified as the late group. Primary endpoint is inguinal hernia recurrence. Secondary endpoints were post-operative chronic inguinal pain, which is defined as persistent pain 6 months after operation, seroma formation, and modified medical outcome study (MOS) score. Results The two groups had comparable baseline characteristics, except the early group were younger (51±13.1 vs. 58.2±15.9, p<0.001) and had less constipation risk before operation (10.0% vs. 18.5%, p=0.006). The early return to work group did not increase inguinal hernia recurrence rate (1.7% versus 2.9%, p=0.386). Furthermore, the early group is associated with significant less chronic pain (4.8% versus 11.6%, p=0.006). There is no difference in post-operative seroma formation or MOS scores between early and late group.Conclusion Patients who underwent laparoscopic TEP hernia repair and returned to work within one week did not show increased hernia recurrence rate or complications. Besides, early return to work was associated with significant less chronic pain. Early return to work after TEP repair is safe and feasible. Patients are encouraged to return to work earlier after TEP.
Bacterial Tonsillitis and Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles Among Children Within Five Years of Age At Hargeisa Group of Hospital, Somaliland: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Darod Hamda Hussein , Melese Addisu , Kibret Mulugeta , Mulu Wondemagegn 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background

Tonsillitis is the third most frequently diagnosed infection in the pediatrics age group around the world. It causes significant morbidity and loss of school attendance in children. The emergence of drug resistance in bacterial tonsillitis is getting higher every year. However, data on the drug resistance profiles of bacterial causes of tonsillitis among children within five years of age is not available in Somaliland.Therefore; this study determined the bacterial causes of tonsillitis and their antimicrobial resistance profiles among children within five years of age at Hargeisa Group of Hospital, Somaliland.
Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to July 2020. A total of 374 children within five years of age were included using convenient sampling method. Throat swabs were collected from children, processed and bacterial species were identified using standard bacteriological procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility was done using disc diffusion method. Data on demographic variables and clinical profiles were collected using structured questionnaires. Logistic regression analysis was computed to identify factors associated with bacterial tonsillitis. P-values < 0.05 were taken as statistically significant.
Results

The median age of children included in the study was 4 years. Overall, 120(32.1%)(95% CI 27.4–36.8%) of children had culture confirmed bacterial tonsillitis. Of them,23(19.2%) had mixed infections.The most frequent bacterial isolates were Streptococcus pyogenes 78(55%), Staphylococcus aureus 42 (29%) and Streptococcus pneumoniae 10(7%). Isolates revealed 83.3–100 % rate of resistance to ampicillin. S. aureus was resistant to clarithromycin (38%) while 60% of S. pneumoniae isolates were resistant to gentamicin. The overall multidrug resistance (MDR) was 50.4% and 52.6% of S.pyogenes and 60% of S.pneumoniae were MDR. History of tonsillitis(AOR = 0.12; 95% CI = 0.06–0.21), difficulty of swallowing(AOR = 6.99; 95% CI = 3.56–13.73), weight loss (AOR = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.186–0.597) and attending school (AOR = 2.98; 95% CI = 1.64–5.42) were found to be associated with tonsillitis among children within five years of age.
Conclusions

Bacterial tonsillitis with high degree of ampicillin resistance, mixed infections and MDR isolates are major concerns in children within five years of age at Hargeisa, Somaliland. Therefore, treatment of cases should be guided by regular culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing to prevent disease consequences and critical drug resistance.
Comparative Proteomics of Rat Olfactory Bulb Reveal Insights Into Susceptibility and Resilience to Chronic-Stress-Induced Depression or Anxiety
Authors: Liu Dan , Cai Xiao , Wang Lixiang , Yi Faping , Liao Wei , Huang Rongzhong , Fang Chui , Chen Jin , Zhou Jian 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
As a main risk factor of both anxiety and depression, chronic stress can cause the abnormality of olfactory bulb (OB). However, the unique and common neurobiological underpinnings underlying the OB dysfunction of these two disorders are still poorly understood. Previously, we have built depression-susceptible (Dep-Sus), anxiety-susceptible (Anx-Sus) and insusceptible (Insus) groups through the use of a valid chronic mild stress (CMS) regime. To continuously explore the protein expression changes in these three groups, comparative quantitative proteomics analysis was conducted on the rat OB as crucial part of the olfactory system. Next, bioinformatics analyses were implemented whereas protein expressions were independently analyzed by parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) or Western blot (WB). The OB-proteome analysis identified totally 133 differentially expressed proteins as a CMS response. These deregulated proteins were involved in multiple functions and significant pathways potentially correlated with phenotypes of maladaptive behavior of depression or anxiety as well as adaptive behavior, and hence might act as potential candidate protein targets. The subsequent PRM-based or WB-based analyses showed that changes in Nefl, Mtmr7 and Tk2; Prkaca, Coa3, Cox6c2, Lamc1 and Tubal3; and Pabpn1, Nme3, Sos1 and Lum were uniquely associated with Dep-Sus, Anx-Sus, and Insus groups, respectively. This suggested that the identical CMS differently impacted the olfactory protein regulation system. To sum up, our present data as a useful proteomics underpinning provided the common and distinct molecular insights into the biochemical understanding of OB dysfunction underlying susceptibility and resiliency to chronic-stress-induced anxiety or depression.
Characterization and In Vitro Assessment Of Three-Dimensional Extrusion Mg-Sr Codoped SiO2-Complexed Porous Micro-Hydroxyapatite Whisker Scaffolds For Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Li Chengyong , Yan Tingting , Lou Zhenkai , Jiang Zhimin , Shi Zhi , Chen Qinghua , Gong Zhiqiang , Wang Bing 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background Orthopedics has made great progress with the development of medical treatment; however, large bone defects are still great challenges for orthopedic surgeons. A good bone substitute that can be obtained through bone tissue engineering may be an effective treatment method. Artificial hydroxyapatite is the main inorganic component of bones, but its applications are limited due to its fragility and lack of bone-active elements. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce its fragility and improve its biological activity. Methods In this study, we developed micro-hydroxyapatite whiskers (mHAws), which were doped with the essential trace active elements Mg2+ and Sr2+ through a low-temperature sintering technique, used silica complexes to improve the mechanical properties, and then manufactured the bionic porous scaffolds by extrusion molding and freeze-drying. Results Four types of scaffolds were obtained: mHAw-SiO2, Mg-doped mHAw-SiO2, Sr-doped mHAw-SiO2 and Mg-Sr-codoped mHAw-SiO2. These composite porous scaffolds have been suggested to have a sufficiently porous morphology with appropriate mechanical strength, are noncytotoxic, are able to support cell proliferation and spreading, and, more importantly, can promote the osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs. Conclusion Therefore, these doped scaffolds not only have physical and chemical properties suitable for bone tissue engineering, but also have higher osteogenic bioactivity, and can be possibly serve as potential bone repair material.
Unpacking Caesarean in Rural Bangladesh: Who, What, When and Where
Authors: Rahman Ahmed Ehsanur , Perkins Janet , Hossain Aniqa Tasnim , Banik Goutom , Jabeen Sabrina , Wall Steve , Arifeen Shams El 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Bangladesh has experienced an alarming increase in birth through caesarean. In this article, we unpack women’s interpretation on why they underwent caesarean, with whom they locate the proposition of the caesarean and when the decision was made in rural Bangladesh. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional household survey of 2,299 women in Kushtia district. Of these, 1,233 who gave birth through caesarean completed a supplementary questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to report caesarean rates which were disaggregated by sociodemographic characteristics and contact with the health services. We analysed women’s reported reasons for having caesarean, when the decision was taken and who proposed the intervention. Findings: Over half (54%) of women gave birth through caesarean. The proportion of caesareans was significantly higher among women with higher educational attainment, higher socioeconomic status, and increased antenatal care during pregnancy, particularly if this care was sought in private facilities (p<0.05). Women reported that health service providers primarily proposed the caesarean (73%), followed by family members (21%) and finally, the woman herself (6%). Regarding the reasons for caesarean, 34% of women reported non-medical reasons (convenience and avoidance of labour pain), and 66% mentioned medical reasons. Over half of the women reported that the decision to undergo a caesarean was taken on the day of birth. Conclusion: Women in rural Bangladesh often report avoidable reasons for caesarean. Better regulation of caesarean services in both public and private health services, as well as improved counselling of women regarding caesarean indications and its consequences, is recommended.
The Effect of Pharmacist Services on Patient Health Outcomes in a Low Middle-income Country: a Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmed Ali , Saqlain Muhammad , Tanveer Maria , Blebil Ali Qais , Dujaili Juman , Hasan Syed Shahzad 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: The pharmacist's role is shifting from dispensing to bedside care, resulting in better patient health outcomes. However, pharmacist services on healthcare utilization in low- and middle-income countries such as Pakistan are unclear. As a result, we intend to conduct a systematic review of pharmacists' roles in improving Pakistani patients' health outcomes.Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHIL, and Cochrane Library for relevant articles published from inception to February 2021. Original studies investigating the therapeutic, humanistic, safety, and economic impact of pharmacists in Pakistani patients (hospitalized or outpatients) were selected. Two reviewers independently assessed the bias in studies, and mutual consensus resolved discrepancies. Results: The literature search found 751 articles from which ten studies were included; seven were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and three were observational studies. Three RCTs included were having a low risk of bias (ROB), two RCTs were having an unclear ROB, while two RCTs were having high ROB. Pharmacist interventions comprised one or more components like provision of education about the disease, medication adherence counselling, medication therapy management, and consultation with a physician regarding change of prescription. In most studies, pharmacists provided therapeutic care, followed by humanistic and safety outcomes with significant improvements. Intervention effect on cost-effectiveness and long-term outcomes were unclear.Conclusions: Positive but not always statistically significant pharmacist effects on therapeutic, humanistic, and safety outcomes have been reported. Therefore, the results favour adding on the benefit of pharmacist services but lack evidence of economic feasibility and long-term impact of pharmacist interventions.
Associations Between M235T Polymorphism in the AGT Gene and Cancer: An Updated Systematic Review and A Meta-analysis
Authors: Kou Jun-Yan , Huang Jing 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: We assessed the relationship between AGT gene M235T polymorphism and the susceptibility to cancer by performing an updated meta-analysis.Methods: This study retrospectively searched related articles in the electronic databases. Afterwards, we determined combined odds ratios (ORs) and related 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by the fixed- or random-effects model.Results: The present meta-analysis enrolled altogether 9 articles. On the whole, the relationship between AGT M235T polymorphism and the cancer risk was not significant among the entire population(TT vs MM:OR=1.28,95%CI=0.80-2.04;TM vs MM: OR=0.90, 95%CI = 0.53-1.52;Recessive model: OR= 1.13, 95%CI = 0.83-1.52; Dominant model: OR=0.93, 95%CI =0.55-1.57). But the relationship of AGT M235T polymorphism with the digestive cancer risk was significant upon subgroup analysis stratified according to cancer type (TT vs MM:OR=1.68,95%CI=1.11-2.54;TM vs MM: OR=1.34, 95%CI = 0.97-1.85;Recessive model: OR= 1.27, 95%CI = 0.95-1.70; Dominant model: OR=1.45, 95%CI =1.07-1.96).Conclusion: According to findings in the present meta-analysis, AGT M235T polymorphism may be possibly related to digestive cancer susceptibility.
Why are the Refugees Children Better Nourished than the Host? Findings from the Uganda’s Largest Refugee Settlement Bidi Bidi
Authors: Mandre Joseph , Kaindi Dasel Wambua Mulwa , Kogi-Makau Wambui 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
About 25.4 million people worldwide are living as refugees of whom 1.36 million are resident in Uganda. Uganda is the largest refugee host in Africa and third globally. The refugees in this study were from South Sudan. The burden of refugee’s presence on the host is rarely discussed by funding agencies. The objective of this study was to determine the nutritional status of children in a refugee settlement and to elucidate the factors that contribute to poor nutritional status of the children in the settlement in order to illuminate strengths or weaknesses in the host population. A total of 340 mother-child dyads participated in this study. The study established an overall prevalence of 14.1% for underweight and a global acute malnutrition of 3.9% for the two groups (refugees 3.6%; host 4.1%) combined. It recorded stunting prevalence of 27.0% and 22.4% in the host and refugee populations, respectively. In ascending order, five factors contributed to poor nutritional status; household size (ORa=1.34, 1.92), episode of illness (wasting, stunting and underweight) (ORa=1.47, 1.49, 1.97), being a host (wasting and stunting) (ORa=1.81, 1.36) and lack of deworming (ORa=3.2, 2.13). Even though the host had relatively better nutrient intake, compared to the refugees, they were nutritionally worse off, as the refugee children had better nutritional status. Therefore, the host should be equally targeted for nutritional interventions. The government of Uganda should thereby formulate and enforce policy that allows the host to benefit equally from food relief during emergencies.
A Study on Health Utility Mapping Model of the Generalized Quality of Life Measurement Scale with Chinese Medicine Characteristics
Authors: peng CiYan , Chen Jing , Li Sini , Li JianHe , Peng LiuBao 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background and Objective: The lack of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-related health utility measurement tools has hindered the expansion and research of TCM in China. The Chinese Health Status (CHS) scale, a general health status assessment scale developed in conjunction with the TCM theory, finds wide applications in clinical practice; however, it cannot be directly used to measure the patient’s health state because it lacks a utility score system. Here, we developed a utility mapping model of the CHS Scale, based on the Chinese cultural background as well as the theory and connotation of TCM, to obtain the health utility values. This study provides a methodological basis for future research on the pharmacoeconomics of Chinese medicine using cost-utility analysis. Methods:Based on real data from medical institutions in Hunan, alternative mapping models from the CHS scale to the EQ-5D-3L were constructed using ordinary least squares, Tobit models, generalised linear models and quantile regression methods, and the mapping model with the best explanatory and predictive power was selected for further analysis. Results: The 1200 cases included in this study were randomly divided into the construction set and the validation set based on their size. In the construction set, 24 alternative models were constructed using four econometric methods and six model types. In the validation set, these 24 alternative models were evaluated using the following evaluation indexes: model fit superiority, mean absolute error, and root mean square error. The highest prediction accuracy was found for regression fitting with ordinary least squares and model 6. Spearman rank correlation test showed that the observed and predicted values in the high correlation, with indicators MAE = 0.0590, RMSE = 0.1045, ME = 4.64e-09, AE > 0.05 (37.83%), and AE > 0.1 (17.33%) were within the acceptable range and at a better level. Conclusions: The final mapping model predicted the utility values and were compared them with the observed values. The distributions were found to be similar, and the observed values were highly correlated with the predicted values in the medium. The fit was significantly accurate, acceptable and could be applied to the pharmacoeconomic evaluation of TCM in the future to obtain the health utility values of patients through the CHS mapping scale.
Fra-2 Overexpression Upregulates Pro-metastatic Cell-adhesion Molecules, Promotes Pulmonary Metastasis and Reduces Survival in a Spontaneous Xenograft Model of Human Breast Cancer
Authors: Arnold Sabrina , Kortland Jan , Maltseva Diana V. , Samatov Timur R. , Lezius Susanne , Tonevitsky Alexander G. , Milde-Langosch Karin , Wicklein Daniel , Schumacher Udo , Stürken Christine 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Purpose:The transcription factor Fra-2 affects the invasive potential of breast cancer cells by dysregulating adhesion molecules in vitro. Previous results suggested that it upregulates the expression of E- and P-selectin ligands. Such selectin ligands are important members of the leukocyte adhesion cascade, which govern the adhesion and transmigration of cancer cells into the stroma of the host organ of metastasis. As so far, no in vivo data are available, this study was designed to elucidate the role of Fra-2 expression in a spontaneous breast cancer metastasis xenograft model. Methods:The effect of Fra-2 overexpression in two stable Fra-2 overexpressing clones of the human breast cancer cell line MDA MB231 on survival and metastatic load was studied after subcutaneous injection into scid and E- and P-selectin deficient scid mice.Results:Fra-2 overexpression lead to a significantly shorter overall survival and a higher amount of spontaneous lung metastases not only in scid mice, but also in E- and P-deficient mice, indicating that it regulates not only selectin ligands, but also selectin-independent adhesion processes. Conclusion:Thus, Fra-2 expression influences the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells by changing the expression of adhesion molecules, resulting in increased adherence to endothelial cells in a breast cancer xenograft model.