bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Does the Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System improve patients’ outcome following laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer? A multicentre, retrospective analysis with propensity score matching.
Authors: Kazama Keisuke , Numata Masakatsu , Aoyama Toru , Atsumi Yosuke , Tamagawa Hiroshi , Godai Teni , Saeki Hiroyuki , Saigusa Yusuke , Shiozawa Manabu , Yukawa Norio , Masuda Munetaka , Rino Yasushi 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the short-term and oncological impact of the Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System (ESSQS) by the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery on the operator performing laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was based on medical records from a multicentre database. A total of 417 patients diagnosed with stage II/III colon and rectosigmoid cancer treated with curative resection were divided into two groups according to whether they were operated on by qualified surgeons (Q group, n=352) or not (NQ group, n=65). Through strict propensity score matching, 98 cases (49 in each group) were assessed. Results: Operative time was significantly longer in the NQ group than in the Q group (199 vs. 168 min, p=0.029). The amount of blood loss, postoperative complications, and duration of hospitalisation were similar between both groups. No mortality was observed. One conversion case was seen in the NQ group. The 3-year recurrence-free survival rate was 86.6% in the NQ group and 88.2% in the Q group, which was not statistically significant (log-rank p=0.966). Conclusion: Direct operation by ESSQS-qualified surgeons contributed to a shortened operation time. Under an organized educational environment, almost equivalent safety and oncological outcomes are expected regardless of the surgeon’s qualifications.
Prospective Feasibility Study of A Mindfulness-Based Program for Breast Cancer Patients in the Southeastern US
Authors: Salvador Carolina , Mark Phyllis , Hoenemeyer Teri , McDonald Victoria 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background: Mindfulness interventions are effective at improving psychological distress and quality of life in cancer patients. Few mindfulness programs for cancer recovery exist in major cities throughout the Southeastern United States. The primary objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of a modified mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program for breast cancer patients in Birmingham, Alabama. The secondary objective was to estimate the effectiveness of the modified program by examining changes in patients’ mindfulness skills and quality of life. Methods: This study was a prospective, quasi-experimental feasibility study conducted over 10 months within a university hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. Feasibility was achieved if 80% of eligible patients screened chose to enroll in the study and 70% of enrolled patients attended all 8 program sessions. Program effectiveness was estimated by changes in mindfulness and quality of life indicators. These indicators were measured by validated scales administered at pretest, posttest, and 8-week follow-up and assessed with a non-parametric Friedman test. The program curriculum followed a modified version of Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn’s MBSR program. Program sessions included sitting meditation, hatha/restorative yoga, and a body-focused attention practice called body scan. There were 3 groups of 2-5 patients.Results: The sample consisted of 12 patients. Forty-four percent (12/27) of eligible patients enrolled in the study, failing to meet recruitment success criteria of 80%; two out of 12 enrolled patients completed all 8 program sessions, resulting in 16.7% (2/12) retention, which fell below the retention success criteria of 70%. However, more than half (66.7%) of participants completed at least 7 sessions. Between baseline and 8-week follow-up, patients demonstrated statistically significant improvements in distress, general wellbeing, and fatigue-related quality of life.Conclusions: Feasibility objectives were not achieved. However, a large majority of participants (66.7%) completed 7 of the 8 program sessions. Program effectiveness was promising for distress, fatigue, and wellbeing. Results warrant further research on MBSR programs for breast cancer patients in Alabama. Future programs should investigate how to increase overall recruitment numbers, focusing on introducing mindfulness concepts to inexperienced populations. Studies should consider hosting sessions in community locations or via telemedicine to improve accessibility.
Astrocytic Microdomains Confine A “molecular Memory” Enabling Long-Term Information Storage for Memory Consolidation
Authors: Vignoli Beatrice , Sansevero Gabriele , Sasi Manju , Rimondini-Giorgini Roberto , Blum Robert , Santi Spartaco , Berardi Nicoletta , Lu Bai , Canossa Marco 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Memory consolidation requires astrocytic microdomains for protein recycling; but whether this lays a mechanistic foundation for long-term information storage remains enigmatic. Here we demonstrate that persistent synaptic strengthening invited astrocytic microdomains to convert initially internalized (pro)-brain-derived neurotrophic factor (proBDNF) into active prodomain (BDNFpro) and mature BDNF (mBDNF) for synaptic re-use. While mBDNF activates TrkB, we uncovered a previously unsuspected function for the cleaved BDNFpro, which increases TrkB/SorCS2 receptor complex at post-synaptic sites. Astrocytic BDNFpro release reinforced TrkB phosphorylation to sustain long-term synaptic potentiation and to retain memory in the novel object recognition behavioral test. Thus, the switch from one inactive state to a multi-functional one of the proBDNF provides post-synaptic changes that survive the initial activation (molecular memory). This molecular asset confines local information storage in astrocytic microdomains to selectively support memory circuits.
Morphometric Assessment of Spleen Dimensions and Its Correlates Among Individual Living in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Demissie Solomon , Mergu Prasad , Fikadu Teshale , Hailu Tadios , Abebe Getachew , Warsa Mengistu 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Introduction: The spleen is a vital lymphoid soft organ that demands constant attention from the clinical point of view. It is multi-dimensional organs that enlarge in all dimensions in disease conditions. The detection of the spleen by palpation on physical examination is not an approval of an enlarged spleen because an unenlarged spleen may palpable. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the Morphometry of spleen dimensions and its correlates among individuals living in Arba Minch Town by sonographic examinations.Methods and Materials: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Arba Minch town from February 1 to March 30, 2020. A multi-stage systematic and simple random sampling technique was applied to select study participants. Data was entered into Epi-Data version 3.1software and exported to SPSS version 20 software for analysis.Result: A total of 708 individuals, 390 (55.1%) males and 318 (44.9 %) females were included in the current study. The mean splenic length, width, thickness and volume were 10.24 cm, 4.79 cm, 3.93 cm, and 109.34 cm³, respectively. The mean spleen length, width, thickness and volumes among males were 10.64 cm, 4.92 cm, 4.05 cm and 119.81 cm³ and among females were 9.75 cm, 4.63 cm, 3.78 cm and 96.50 cm³ respectively. Significant negative correlations were found between age and spleen dimensions. Significant positive correlations were observed between spleen dimensions and height, weight, Body Mass Index, and Body Surface area. But, the correlation between width and body mass index was non-significant (p-value > 0.05).Conclusion and Recommendations: The spleen dimensions were higher in males than females and have a significant positive correlation with height, weight, Body Mass Index and Body Surface Area except for the width. Further studies in different parts of the country have to be done to have normative data on the dimension of Spleen in Ethiopia.
Longitudinal omics in Syrian hamsters integrated with human data unravel cellular effector responses to moderate COVID-19
Authors: Nouailles Geraldine , Wyler Emanuel , Pennitz Peter , Postmus Dylan , Vladrimirova Daria , Kazmierski Julia , Pott Fabian , Dietert Kristina , Mülleder Michael , Farztdinov Vadim , Obermayer Benedikt , Wienhold Sandra-Maria , Andreotti Sandro , Hoefler Thomas , Sawitzki Birgit , Drosten Christian , Sander Leif , Suttorp Norbert , Ralser Markus , Beule Dieter , Gruber Achim , Goffinet Christine , Landthaler Markus , Trimpert Jakob , Witzenrath Martin 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
In COVID-19, immune responses are key in determining disease severity. However, cellular mechanisms at the onset of inflammatory lung injury in SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly involving endothelial cells, remain ill-defined. Using Syrian hamsters as model for moderate COVID-19, we conducted a detailed longitudinal analysis of systemic and pulmonary cellular responses, and corroborated it with datasets from COVID-19 patients. Monocyte-derived macrophages in lungs exerted the earliest and strongest transcriptional response to infection, including induction of pro-inflammatory genes, while epithelial cells showed weak activation. Without evidence for productive infection, endothelial cells reacted, depending on cell subtypes, by strong and early expression of anti-viral, pro-inflammatory, and T cell recruiting genes. Recruitment of cytotoxic T cells as well as emergence of IgM antibodies preceded viral clearance at day 5 post infection. Investigating SARS-CoV-2 infected Syrian hamsters can thus identify cell type-specific effector functions, provide detailed insights into pathomechanisms of COVID-19, and inform therapeutic strategies.
Impact of Brief Smoking Cessation Intervention on Abstinence Rate and Glycaemic Control in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Albaroodi Khansaa , Sulaiman Syed Azhar Syed , Awaisu Ahmed , Shafie Asrul 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of brief smoking cessation intervention on smoking cessation outcomes as well as on glycaemic and blood pressure control among patients with diabetes.Methods: This was a randomised controlled trial involving patients with diabetes who smoked tobacco and attended the out-patient Diabetes Clinic at Penang Hospital in Malaysia. One hundred forty participants were randomised into either control (n = 70) or intervention (n = 70) groups. The intervention consisted of a 5-minute physician-delivered brief counselling on tobacco cessation using 5A’s strategy (Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, and Arrange) in addition to usual care for patients with diabetes, while the control group received only the usual care. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to glucose control, blood pressure levels, and smoking abstinence rates (P >0.05). Furthermore, significant main effects were found between the groups with respect to the number of cigarettes smoked per day (F [1,116] = 6.306). Conclusions: Brief smoking cessation intervention did not result in better abstinence rates or glycaemic control in patients with diabetes. However, it resulted in reduction in the number of cigarettes smoked per day over the study period (6 months), which is the first step in the tobacco cessation process. Trial registrationApproval for the conduct of this study was granted by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Ministry of Health, Malaysia and the Clinical Research Centre at Hospital Pulau Pinang, Malaysia (NMRR-11-477-9538) at (05-10-2011).
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of The BHLH Transcription Factor Family and Its Response to Abiotic Stress in Sorghum [Sorghum Bicolor (L.) Moench]
Authors: Fan Yu , Yang Hao , Lai Dili , He Ailing , Xue Guoxing , Feng Liang , Chen Long , Cheng Xiao-bin , Ruan Jingjun , Yan Jun , Cheng Jianping 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) is a superfamily of transcription factors that is widely found in plants and animals, and is the second largest transcription factor family in eukaryotes after MYB. They have been shown to be important regulatory components in tissue development and many different biological processes. However, no systemic analysis of the bHLH transcription factor family has yet been reported in Sorghum bicolor. Results: We conducted the first genome-wide analysis of the bHLH transcription factor family of Sorghum bicolor and identified 174 SbbHLH genes. Phylogenetic analysis of SbbHLH proteins and 158 Arabidopsis thaliana bHLH proteins was performed to determine their homology. In addition, conserved motifs, gene structure, chromosomal spread, and gene duplication of SbbHLH genes were studied in depth. To further infer the phylogenetic mechanisms in the SbbHLH family, we constructed six comparative syntenic maps of S. bicolor associated with six representative species. Finally, we analyzed the gene-expression response and tissue-development characteristics of 12 typical SbbHLH genes in plants subjected to six different abiotic stresses. Gene expression during flower and fruit development was also examined. Conclusions: This study is of great significance for functional identification and confirmation of the S. bicolor bHLH superfamily and for our understanding of the bHLH superfamily in higher plants.
The Progressive Effects of Built Environments on Supporting Physical Activity Diversity in High-Density Areas: A Case Study in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Gao Yuan , Liu Kun , Zhou Peiling , Xie Hongkun 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Physical activity diversity (PAD) is an essential indicator to present the vitality of health city, and how to improve PAD from the built environment perspective is a key issue for healthy urban planning and design, especially in high-density cities; Methods: This study selected Shenzhen, China as a representative case, combined the diversity of PA participants, types and occurrence times for the comprehensive understanding of PAD, fully used multiple source data for the measurement and statistical analysis of PAD and built environments, to discover the relationships between the built environment and PAD, and to explore the different effects in clustered and sprawled high-density urban forms; Results: PAD was unevenly distributed in Shenzhen, higher in the clustered areas and lower in the sprawled ares and the effects of the built environment on PAD were significantly different between two kinds of areas; Conclusions: the built environment supports PAD by progressive effects, in which accessibility is the necessary and funda-mental condition to activate individual PAs, inclusiveness is sufficiently supports the coaction of various kind of PAs to consolidate PAD, and landscape attractiveness furtherly aggregates more PAs to achieve higher PAD. To create accessible, inclusive, and attractive built environments are crucial ways to improve the vitality of healthy city development in high-density cities.
What Do Men Want? Exploring Gender Differences in Supportive Care Preferences of Couples With Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Fossé NA du , Lashley EELO , Treurniet TT , Lith JMM van , Cessie S le , Boosman H , Hoorn MLP van der 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background International guidelines recommend to offer supportive care during a next pregnancy to couples affected by recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). In previous research, several options for supportive care have been identified and women’s preferences have been quantified. Although it is known that RPL impacts the mental health of both partners, male preferences for supportive care have hardly been explored. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in couples who visited a specialized RPL clinic in the Netherlands between November 2018 and December 2019. Both members of the couples received a questionnaire that quantified their preferences for supportive care in a next pregnancy and they were asked to complete this independently from each other. Preferences for each supportive care option were analyzed on a group level (by gender) and on a couple level, by comparing preferences of both partners. Results Ninety-two questionnaires (completed by 46 couples) were analyzed. The overall need for supportive care indicated on a scale from 1-10 was 6.8 for men and 7.9 for women (P = 0.002). Both genders preferred to regularly see the same doctor with knowledge of their obstetric history, to make a plan for the first trimester and to have frequent ultrasound examinations. A lower proportion of men preferred a doctor that shows understanding (80% of men vs. 100% of women, P = 0.004) and informs on wellbeing (72% vs. 100%, P = ≤0.000). Fewer men preferred support from friends (48% vs. 74%, P = 0.017). Thirty-seven percent of men requested more involvement of the male partner at the outpatient clinic, compared to 70% of women (P = 0.007). In 28% of couples, one partner desired peer support, while the other partner did not prefer this.Conclusions While both women and men affected by RPL are in need of supportive care, their preferences may differ. Current supportive care services may not entirely address the needs of men. Health care professionals should focus on both partners and development of novel supportive care programs with specific attention for men should be considered.
Impact of Antibiotic Usage on Extended-Spectrum ß-Lactamase Producing Escherichia Coli Prevalence: A Time-Series Analysis of Tertiary Hospital Implementing Stewardship Program
Authors: Kim Jeong Yeon , Yum Yun Jin , Joo Hyung Joon , An Hyonggin , Kim Jong Hun , Sohn Jang Wook 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
An increase in antibiotic usage is considered to attribute to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Although experts are counting on the antimicrobial stewardship programs to reduce antibiotic usage, their effect remains uncertain. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of antibiotic usage and forecast the prevalence of hospital-acquired extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) - producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) using time-series analysis. Antimicrobial culture information of E. coli was obtained using a text processing technique that helped extract free-text electronic health records from standardized data. The antimicrobial use density (AUD) of antibiotics of interest was used to estimate the quarterly antibiotic usage. Transfer function model was applied to forecast relationship between antibiotic usage and ESBL-producing E. coli. Of the 1,938 hospital-acquired isolates, 831 isolates (42.9%) were ESBL-producing E. coli. Both the proportion of ESBL-producing E. coli and AUD increased over time. The transfer model predicted that ciprofloxacin AUD is related to the proportion of ESBL-producing E. coli two quarters later. In conclusion, excessive use of antibiotics was shown to affect the prevalence of resistant organisms in the future. Therefore, the control of antibiotics with antimicrobial stewardship programs should be considered to restrict antimicrobial resistance.
Incidence, Pattern and Mechanisms of Injuries and Fractures in Children Under Two Years of Age
Authors: Rosendahl Karen , Myklebust Ramona , Forseth Kjersti Foros , Nøttveit Andreas , Eide Pernille , Djuve Åsmund , Brudvik Christina 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Fractures in children under two years of age are rare, and little has been published on their mechanisms. We aimed at examining the incidence, mechanisms, pattern and fracture characteristics in a large, population-based cohort of otherwise healthy children.Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study includes all children aged 0-2 years, attending the Accident and Emergency department in Bergen between 2010 and 2015, due to an injury warranting radiography. Clinical data was categorized from the medical notes, and all radiographs were reviewed by an experienced paediatric radiologist. Results: 408 children (212 male), 3-23 months of age (mean 17.7 months), were included. 149 (77 male) children had a total of 162 fractures, yielding an annual incidence of 5.4 per 1000, varying from 0.7 per 1000 for those under 12 months of age, increasing tenfold to 7.3 per 1000 for children aged 12-24 months of age. More than half of the fractures (53.1%) were seen in children aged 18-23 months, while none was found in those under 7 months of age. The youngest age group had mostly femur and tibia fractures, the oldest mostly forearm fractures (n=55, 34.0%), followed by tibia fractures (21.6%) and fractures to the clavicle (14.8%). The reported mechanisms for the 162 fractures were fall from a chair/bed/table (41.4%), fall from own height (18.5%) or crush injury (15.4%). In 5% of the injuries, the fracture history was clearly inconsistent and suspicious of non-accidental injury (NAI). Conclusion: Injuries and fractures in young children in general, and non-ambulant children in particular, are rare and should be thoroughly assessed for NAI. Level of evidence: Retrospective, population based cross-sectional study. Level 3.
Prediction and Trend of Tactile Acuity, Pain and Disability in Acute LBP: A Six-Month Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Morf Rita , Pfeiffer Fabian , Hotz-Boendermaker Sabina , Meichtry Andre , Luomajoki Hannu 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Chronic back pain is known to be associated with altered tactile acuity. Tactile acuity is measured using the Two-Point Discrimination (TPD) test in both clinical and research settings. In subjects with chronic low back pain, the TPD threshold (TPDT) is increased and is associated with persistent pain. It remains unknown, however, whether TPDT is also altered in cases of acute pain, or whether it could be used as a predictor of future pain and disability at an early stage of LBP.The main objective of this study was to investigate the predictive value of baseline TPDT for pain and disability at three and six months after the onset of acute LBP. The TPDT in acute low back pain (LBP) and the development of TPDT over six months has also been assessed. Methods: LBP participants (n=124) with acute LBP (<4 weeks) were included. Subjects were examined within 4 weeks of pain onset and followed-up after 3 months and 6 months of pain onset. Horizontal and vertical TPDTs of the lower back were collected. Linear mixed models were subsequently used to evaluate the association of TPDT with pain and disability over time.Results: The vertical TPDT showed a mean (SD) of 4.9 cm (1.6) and the horizontal TPDT a mean (SD) of 6.0 cm (1.5) at baseline. The vertical TPDT altered from baseline up to 6 months from 4.9 cm to 4.6 cm and the horizontal TPDT from 6.0 cm to 5.4 cm. The association between the TPDT and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) after 6 months was moderate. Linear mixed models revealed no association between TPDT, pain and disability over the progression of LBP. Conclusion: TPDTs appear to be raised in subjects with acute LBP. However, our study revealed no predictive capability of the TPDT for disability and pain. No comparisons are possible in the absence of similar studies, indicating the need for further research is in this area.