bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Association of Elevated Serum Lipocalin-2 Levels With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zhang Xi , Shen Xiurong , Zhou Wan , Xu Mengyun , Xing Yan , Weng Jianping , Ye Shandong , Xu Suowen , Zhang Zhi , Wang Wei 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
BackgroundA variety of studies have demonstrated the role of lipocalin-2 (LCN2) in both diabetes and neurological disorders. Nevertheless, the relationship between LCN2 and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) needs to be elucidated in humans. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the association of LCN2 with DPN in type 2 diabetes (T2D).MethodsA total 207 participants with T2D were included in this study. All participants were classified into DNP group and non-DNP (NDPN) group based on the Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Scoring (TCNS). Demographic and biochemical parameters were measured. Serum LCN2 levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. ResultsSerum LCN2 levels in DNP group were higher than those in NDPN group (p = 0.001). Stratification analysis according to the tertiles of serum LCN2 levels showed that with the LCN2 level elevated, the number of participants with DPN increased, whereas the number of participants with NDPN decreased (trend p = 0.003). Moreover, serum LCN2 levels positively correlated to TCNS scores, which reflects neuropathy severity (r = 0.438, p = 0.000). Multivariate stepwise regression analysis showed that BMI, triglycerides and diastolic pressure were independently associated with serum LCN2 in DPN. Additionally, logistic regression analysis demonstrated that LCN2 (OR = 1.009) and diabetes duration (OR = 1.058) were independently associated with the occurrence of DPN in T2D.Conclusions﻿Our report reveals the association of serum LCN2 with DPN in T2D. LCN2 might be used to evaluate DPN severity and serve a role in the pathogenesis of DPN.
Incidence, Risk Factors, and Prognosis of Meningiomas With Distant Metastases at Presentation
Authors: Vuong Huy Gia , Ngo Tam N.M. , Dunn Ian F. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
IntroductionDistant metastases (DM) at presentation in meningiomas is a very rare event, and the incidence and factors predicting this are uncertain. This population-based study also aimed to investigate the prognostic implication of DM at presentation and clinical parameters to prognosticate the overall survival (OS) of meningiomas presenting with DM (M1).MethodsWe accessed the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program to search for patients who were diagnosed with meningioma between 2004-2016. The log-rank test was used to compare Kaplan-Meier survival curves and multivariate Cox regression model was utilized to evaluate the prognostic parameters of meningiomas with DM at presentation.ResultsThe incidence of DM at presentation among all meningiomas was 0.18%. Clinical variables associated with this event were male gender, large tumor size, and WHO grade III. The presence of DM at diagnosis conferred a shorter survival in comparison to those without DM (HR = 2.015; 95% CI = 1.600-2.536). Older patient age, male gender, malignant histology, and the lesser extent of resection were independent prognostic factors that could negatively impact OS of M1 meningiomas. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy were not associated with an improved outcome for these patients.ConclusionOur study highlighted the clinical and prognostic factors of M1 meningiomas. These data suggest that a greater extent of resection is associated with increased OS across a nationwide analysis and emphasize the need to establish the standards of care in these patients.
A Vein-Viewing Application Enabled Detecting Abdominal Wall Varices Related to the Presence of Non-Treated Gastroesophageal Varices: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hoshino Yoshiki , Sugihara Takaaki , Ikeda Suguru , Matsuki Yukako , Nagahara Takakazu , Okano Jun-ichi , Isomoto Hajime 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
Gastroesophageal varices (GOV) are a life-threatening complication in chronic liver disease. A method for non-invasively predicting GOV is crucial for management. This study aimed to determine whether a vein-viewing application can detect abdominal wall varices (AWV) and elucidate the relationship between AWV and GOV.
Methods
One-hundred patients with chronic liver diseases were prospectively enrolled. All the patients underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy within three months of the enrollment. Unmanipulated images (UI) and Vein-weighted images (VWI) were taken for assessing AWV by a vein-viewing application on iPhone. Two doctors independently evaluated both image types. We defined the grading of both UI and AWV as grade 0 (non-detectable), grade 1 (slightly detectable), and grade 2 (distinct).
Results
The causes of liver diseases among the 71 men and 29 women (median age, 70.5 year) included Hepatitis B (n = 19), Hepatitis C (n = 21), alcoholism (n = 3), primary biliary cholangitis (n = 4), autoimmune hepatitis (n = 4) and others (n = 20). GOV were indicated in 60 patients, and half of them had not been treated previously (non-treated). VWI could significantly visualize AWV than UI (24% vs 72%, p = 0.0005). The presence of cirrhosis (chronic hepatitis vs cirrhosis = 64.6% vs 91.4%, p = 0.004) and GOV (52.3% vs 74.3%, p = 0.032) were significantly higher in the VWI-AWV grade 2 group. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that VWI-AWV grade 2 was an independent factor related to the presence of non-treated GOV [OR = 2.97 (1.17–7.53), p = 0.022].
Conclusions
The vein-viewing application non-invasively detected AWV related to the presence of cirrhosis and GOV, and VWI-AWV grade 2 was an independent factor related to the presence of non-treated GOV.
Automated radiosynthesis of two 18F-labeled tracers containing 3-fluoro-2-hydroxypropyl moiety, [18F]FMISO and [18F]PM-PBB3, via [18F]epifluorohydrin
Authors: Kawamura Kazunori , Ohkubo Takayuki , Kurihara Yusuke , Ogawa Masanao , Nengaki Nobuki , Fujinaga Masayuki , Mori Wakana , Kumata Katsushi , Hanyu Masayuki , Furutsuka Kenji , Hashimoto Hiroki , Zhang Ming-Rong 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
[18F]Fluoromisonidazole ([18F]FMISO) and 1-[18F]fluoro-3-((2-((1E,3E)-4-(6-(methylamino)pyridine-3-yl)buta-1,3-dien-1-yl)benzo[d]thiazol-6-yl)oxy)propan-2-ol ([18F]PM-PBB3 or [18F]APN-1607) are clinically used radiotracers for imaging for hypoxia and tau pathology, respectively. Both radiotracers were produced by direct [18F]fluorination using the corresponding tosylate precursors 1 or 2 and [18F]F−, followed by the removal of protecting groups. In this study, we synthesized [18F]FMISO and [18F]PM-PBB3 by [18F]fluoroalkylation using [18F]epifluorohydrin ([18F]5) for clinical applications.
Results
First, [18F]5 was synthesized by the reaction of 1,2-epoxypropyl tosylate (8) with [18F]F− and was purified by distillation. Subsequently, [18F]5 was reacted with 2-nitroimidazole (6) or PBB3 (7) as a precursor for 18F-labeling, and each reaction mixture was refined by semipreparative high-performance liquid chromatography and formulation to obtain the [18F]FMISO or [18F]PM-PBB3 injection. All synthetic sequences were performed using an automated 18F-labeling synthesizer. The [18F]FMISO thus obtained showed sufficient radioactivity (0.83 ± 0.20 GBq at the end of synthesis; n = 8) with appropriate radiochemical yield based on [18F]F− (26 ± 7.5% at the end of irradiation with decay-corrected; n = 8). [18F]PM-PBB3 thus obtained showed sufficient radioactivity (0.79 ± 0.10 GBq; n = 11) with appropriate radiochemical yield based on [18F]F− (16 ± 3.2% at the end of irradiation with decay-corrected; n = 11).
Conclusions
Both [18F]FMISO and [18F]PM-PBB3 injections were successfully synthesized with sufficient radioactivity by [18F]fluoroalkylation using [18F]5.
Are there socio-demographic differences in salt behaviours and fruit and vegetable consumption in Australian adults? A nationally representative cross-sectional survey
Authors: Rosewarne Emalie , Santos Joseph Alvin , Hoek Annet , Grimes Carley , Nowson Caryl , Webster Jacqui , Bolton Kristy A. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background

Diets low in fruit and vegetables and high in salt are among the top dietary risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In a nationally representative sample of Australians, this study aimed to describe self-reported intake of fruit and vegetables, and knowledge, attitudes and behaviours related to salt intake, and determine if there were socio-demographic differences between population subgroups.
Methods

A 2016 cross-sectional survey of Australian adults aged 18 years and over, which comprised 160 questions, including socio-demographic, core health and research-related questions. Descriptive statistics (mean, 95% confidence interval, %) were calculated. Weighted-adjusted logistic regression models were used to determine if there were socio-demographic differences in salt behaviours and fruit and vegetable consumption.
Results

A total of 1217 participants completed the survey (51% female). Less than 8% of participants reported consuming the recommended 2 or more serves of fruit and 5 or more serves of vegetables. Almost 60% of participants frequently added salt during cooking/meal preparation and 42% of respondents frequently placed a salt-shaker on the table at mealtimes. There were no patterns between socio-demographic differences and measures of fruit and vegetable consumption and salt behaviours. Differences in at least one measure were found for sex, age, location, education level and weight category.
Conclusions

There were no patterns between socio-demographic factors and salt behaviours and fruit and vegetable intake. Less than recommended intakes of fruit and vegetables and frequent discretionary salt use are placing Australians at risk of diet-related NCDs. Policy changes to improve the food environment complimented by a nationwide consumer awareness campaign targeting all socio-demographic groups will therefore be required to improve Australian’s diets.
Effect of Electro-acupuncture on Ovarian Function and Outcome of Ivf-et of Women With Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.
Authors: Yang Le , Zhang Hanwang , Zhou Li , Gao Ying , Yang Lijuan , Hu Yajun , Xu Lu , Huang Dongmei 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background:Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is the precursor state of ovarian failure, and can cause the decline of women’s reproductive function. DOR also leads to poor outcome of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) by affecting the oocytes, high qualified embryo rate, pregnancy rate, etc. Some studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can improve ovarian function. But to date, there is limited evidence indicating that acupuncture or electro-acupuncture is efficient to DOR. This trial aims to evaluate the efficiency and safety of electro-acupuncture for the ovarian function and the following outcome of IVF-ET in DOR patients.Methods:This will be a multicenter randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of more than 338 women with DOR will be randomly allocated to treatment and control groups in 1:1 ratio receiving acupuncture before undergoing IVF-ET. The primary outcome will be the clinical pregnancy rate per cycle of IVF-ET after acupuncture. The secondary outcomes will be ovarian reserve function, outcomes of IVT-ET, blood biochemical index, Massachusetts General Hospital Acupuncture Sensation Scale (MASS), scores from the self-rating anxiety and depression scale, quality of life, and pregnancy outcomes. The safety of acupuncture will also be assessed.Discussion:The results of this trial may provide high quality evidence regarding the effectiveness of electro-acupuncture in the treatment of DOR and following outcomes of IVF-ET. This will also help patients with DOR and their physicians by offering a new treatment option.Trial registration:ChiCTR1900024626. Registered on 19 July 2019.
Intervention with inulin prior to and during sanative therapy to further support periodontal health: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zanatta Carly , Fritz Peter , Comelli Elena , Ward Wendy 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background: Periodontal disease is a chronic state of inflammation that can destroy the supporting tissues around the teeth, leading to the resorption of alveolar bone. The initial strategy for treating periodontal disease is non-surgical sanative therapy (ST). Periodontal disease can also induce dysbiosis in the gut microbiota and contribute to low grade systemic inflammation. Prebiotic fibres such as inulin can selectively alter the intestinal microbiota and support homeostasis by improving gut barrier functions and preventing inflammation. Providing an inulin supplement prior to and post-ST may influence periodontal health while providing insight into the complex relationship between periodontal disease and the gut microbiota. The primary objective is to determine if inulin is more effective than the placebo at improving clinical periodontal outcomes including probing depth (PD) and bleeding on probing (BOP). Secondary objectives include determining the effects of inulin supplementation pre and post-ST on salivary markers of inflammation and periodontal-associated pathogens, as these outcomes reflect more rapid changes that can occur.Methods: We will employ a single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study design and recruit and randomize 170 participants who are receiving ST to manage periodontal disease to the intervention (inulin) or placebo (maltodextrin) group. A pilot study will be embedded within the randomized controlled trial using the first 48 participants to test feasibility for the larger, powered trial. The intervention period will begin 4 weeks before ST through to their follow-up appointment at 10 weeks post-ST. Clinical outcomes of periodontal disease including number of sites with PD ≥ 4 mm and the absence of BOP will be measured at baseline and post-ST. Salivary markers of inflammation, periodontal-associated pathogens, body mass index and diet will be measured at baseline, pre-ST (after 4 weeks of intervention) and post-ST (after 14 weeks of intervention). Discussion: We expect that inulin to enhance the positive effect of ST on the management of periodontal disease. The results of the study will provide guidance regarding the use of prebiotics prior to and as a supportive adjunct to ST for periodontal health. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04670133. Registered on 17 December 2020 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04670133
Should acupuncture therapy be used for acute facial paralysis? A protocol of systematic review
Authors: Cheng Lu , Li Xiao-lin , Ying Yi , Du Shi-hao , Zhang Xu-dong , Guo Wei , Mi Shu-qi , Zhao Ji-ping 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Introduction Peripheral Facial paralysis (PFP) results in functional and social dysfunction, when it is under a severe condition at onset, long-term poor outcomes do occur. Different acupuncture method has been reported to be potentially effective for shortening the disease course and reduce the occurrence of sequelae when applying at an early stage. Neuroedema is a common pathological feature in the acute phase, many clinical studies have suggested its effect of reducing facial nerve edema. It is of value to estimate the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture treatment at the onset, and it is worthwhile to assess the most suitable acupuncture method for the acute period. Methods and analysis We will include all the RCTs and quasi-RCTs on acupuncture therapy for PFP at its acute stage. Literature searching will be conducted until September 15th, 2020 from eight databases systematically. Two reviewers will screen the literature and extract the data independently. RevMan software and the Cochrane tool of Risk of Bias will be used to assess the methodological quality of RCTs. Forest plots and summary findings will be generated. If data permits, a meta-analysis will be conducted. Ethics and dissemination Since this study will not involve clinical treatment of patients, ethics approval is not required. The result of this study will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal for publication and as a proposal for clinical practice and further study on acupuncture treatment at the early stage of PFP. Discussion This review will summarize the evidence on the different type of acupuncture therapy for acute bell’s palsy and Ramsay-Hunt syndrome. We anticipate that it would be safe and effective when applying to the acute phase of PFP, and some specific suitable acupuncture methods would be found resulting from this review.Trial registration number International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42020205127
Consequences of COVID-19 Lockdown on Children and Their Pets: Dangerous Increase of Dog Bites Among the Paediatric Population
Authors: Parente Giovanni , Gargano Tommaso , Maffi Michela , Libri Michele , Lima Mario 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has not only put our national health systems to the test, but it also notably hit the economy, the society and the psychology of the people. Our pets have been subjected to the pandemic related stress too.The aim of the study is to evaluate whether the stress induced on domestic dogs resulted in an increase of dog bites in the paediatric population.Material and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on all patients admitted to our paediatric emergency department for dog bite from January 2014 and December 2020.We compared the total mean dog bites of the years 2014-2019 and the mean number per single month with the respective 2020 data. The bites were divided between ones from family dogs and ones from stranger dogs. Categorical variables were studied with Chi squared test considering statistically significant a p value < .05.Results: From January 2014 to December 2019, we recorded a mean of 41 ± 7 dog bites (range: 35-55) of whom a mean 10 ± 4 (range: 4-15) were due to family dogs (24%) and a mean of 31 ± 2 (range: 28-35) due to stranger dogs (76%); the male:female ratio was 3:2, the 43% of the injuries concerned the head and face, 26% the lower limbs, 25% the upper limbs, 3% the genitalia and 3% the torso.From January 2020 to December 2020 22 children were admitted for dog bites: 14 were from family dogs (64%) and 8 from stranger dogs (36%); the male:female ratio was 14:11, the 72% of the injuries concerned the head and face, 16% the upper limbs, 8% the lower limbs and 4% the torso.The frequency distribution of family and stranger dogs’ bites in 2014-2019 and 2020 was statistically significant (p: .002).Between 2014 and 2019, a mean of 9 ± 2 (range: 6-12) of the wounds needed to be sutured (22%) while 32 ± 3 (range: 28-35) wounds were discharged after application of Steri Strips (78%).On the other hand, in 2020, 13 wounds needed to be sutured (59%) and 9 received Steri Strips application (41%).The frequency distribution of the treatments required (stitches vs Steri Strips) between 2014-2019 and 2020 was statistically significant (p: .003).Conclusion: The number of family dog bites in children increased in 2020 especially during the lockdown period. Paediatrician should pay a lot of efforts nowadays more than ever to educate parents on always supervising their kids when playing with dogs.
Infrastructure Investments, Regional Trade Agreements and Agricultural Market Integration in Mozambique
Authors: Popat Meizal , Griffith Garry , Mounter Stuart , Cacho Oscar 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Integration of agricultural markets has been a topic of great interest in Mozambique. Numerous studies have been conducted to assess both domestic and regional integration of maize markets in the country, though with some contradictory results. In this study domestic and regional market integration in Mozambique is assessed, focusing on maize markets as the main crop in the country. In contrast to previous work, this study takes into account new investments in infrastructure as well as changes in regional trade policies, using vector autoregressive (VAR) and vector error correction (VEC) models. The main findings suggest that maize markets in Mozambique are not efficiently integrated. This is particularly true between the deficit markets in the South and the surplus markets in the Centre and North of the country. At the regional level, market integration is also inefficient in many cases. Nonetheless, investments in infrastructure, such as the Zambezi River Bridge, linking the north to the rest of the country, as well as changes in trade policies over the years are shown to be significantly impacting to maize price changes, particularly in the north. The overall results suggest there is room for improvements in the maize value chain performance, particularly there is scope for farmers to engage more in trade and for reducing food loss. Action may include investments on training programs and incentives to shift farmers from the current subsistence farming to a more commercial farming system approach.
CircRNA circ-ATAD1 suppresses the maturation of miR-168 to participate in colorectal cancer
Authors: Cao Li , Chen Peng , Zhao Shang , Dong Guanglong 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background: CircRNA circ-ATAD1 has been characterized as an oncogenic circRNA in gastric cancer, while its role in colorectal cancer is This study was carried out to explore the role of circ-ATAD1 in colorectal cancer (CRC).Methods: Paired CRC and adjacent non-tumor tissue samples collected from 64 CRC patients were subjected to RNA extractions and RT-qPCRs to analyze the expression of circ-ATAD1, premature miR-168 and mature miR-168 in The effects of circ-ATAD1 overexpression on the maturation of miR-168 was analyzed by transfecting circ-ATAD1 expression vector into CRC cells, followed by determining the expression of premature miR-168 and mature miR-168 through RT-qPCR. The role of circ-ATAD1, premature miR-168 and mature miR-168 in regulating the proliferation of CRC cells was explored by CCK-8Results: In this study we found that circ-ATAD1 was upregulated in CRC and predicted poor survival. In addition, circ-ATAD1 was inversely correlated with mature miR-168, but not premature miR-168. In CRC cells, circ-ATAD1 overexpression decreased the expression of mature miR-168, but not premature miR-168. Moreover, circ-ATAD1 overexpression reduced the inhibitory effects of miR-168 overexpression on cell proliferation.Conclusions: Therefore, circ-ATAD1 is overexpressed in CRC and it may suppress the maturation of miR-168 to participate in CRC.
A Unified Power Quality Conditioner for Power Quality Issue Mitigationer Using Neuro Fuzzy Controller
Authors: MANIVASAGAM R. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This manuscript grants a control system for Power Quality (PQ) issues of Unified Power Quality Conditioner (UPQC) based hysteresis controller and augmentation the PQ with the help of numerous optimization methods. In numerous attractive features of UPQC, like voltage sags, voltage swells negative series current and harmonics. Foremost aim of PQ issues is the recompense of the D-FACT devices that origins an undesired effect on bearing. Optimal values for converter of UPQC its presentation can be meaningfully enhanced PQ. This paper discoursed about the UPQC physical process asserts the required meliorate the PQ at DC link integrated. The adaptive control technique for hysteresis developed by the modifying PQ with the use of the UPQC method is also briefly excused. The measurement of voltage sag and swell will be improved and sinusoidal after inoculating current and voltage to the UPQC source current and source voltage. The evaluation results inevitably show the effectiveness of the voltage sag and the voltage swell in the UPQC system based on the Neuro Fuzzy Control (NFC) controller is improved.