bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Direct differentiation of tonsillar biopsy-derived stem cells to the neuronal lineage
Authors: Arad Michal , Brown Robert A. , Khatri Raju , Taylor Rodney J. , Zalzman Michal 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
Neurological disorders are considered one of the greatest burdens to global public health and a leading cause of death. Stem cell therapies hold great promise for the cure of neurological disorders, as stem cells can serve as cell replacement, while also secreting factors to enhance endogenous tissue regeneration. Adult human multipotent stem cells (MSCs) reside on blood vessels, and therefore can be found in many tissues throughout the body, including palatine tonsils. Several studies have reported the capacity of MSCs to differentiate into, among other cell types, the neuronal lineage. However, unlike the case with embryonic stem cells, it is unclear whether MSCs can develop into mature neurons.

Methods
Human tonsillar MSCs (T-MSCs) were isolated from a small, 0.6-g sample, of tonsillar biopsies with high viability and yield as we recently reported. Then, these cells were differentiated by a rapid, multi-stage procedure, into committed, post-mitotic, neuron-like cells using defined conditions.

Results
Here we describe for the first time the derivation and differentiation of tonsillar biopsy-derived MSCs (T-MSCs), by a rapid, multi-step protocol, into post-mitotic, neuron-like cells using defined conditions without genetic manipulation. We characterized our T-MSC-derived neuronal cells and demonstrate their robust differentiation in vitro.

Conclusions
Our procedure leads to a rapid neuronal lineage commitment and loss of stemness markers, as early as three days following neurogenic differentiation. Our studies identify biopsy-derived T-MSCs as a potential source for generating neuron-like cells which may have potential use for in vitro modeling of neurodegenerative diseases or cell replacement therapies.
Brain-Targeted Polysorbate 80-Emulsified Donepezil Drug-Loaded Nanoparticles for Neuroprotection
Authors: Tao Xiaojun , Mao Siyu , Zhang Qiufang , Yu Hongyuan , Li Yu , He Xiangling , Yang Shanyi , Zhang Zhirong , Yi Ziqi , Song Yujiao , Feng Xing 
Published: August 2021

AbstractMost Alzheimer’s disease drugs do not work efficiently because of the blood–brain barrier. Therefore, we designed a new nanopreparation (PS-DZP-CHP): cholesterol-modified pullulan (CHP) nanoparticle with polysorbate 80(PS) surface coverage, as donepezil (DZP) carrier to realize brain tissue delivery. By size analysis and isothermal titration calorimetry, we chose the optimal dosing ratio of the drug with nanomaterials (1:5) and designed a series of experiments to verify the efficacy of the nanoparticles. The results of in vitro release experiments showed that the nanoparticles can achieve continuous drug release within 72 h. The results of fluorescence observation in mice showed a good brain targeting of PS-DZP-CHP nanoparticles. Furthermore, the nanoparticle can enhance the drug in the brain tissue concentration in mice. DZP-CHP nanoparticles were used to pretreat nerve cells with Aβ protein damage. The concentration of lactate dehydrogenase was determined by MTT, rhodamine 123 and AO-EB staining, which proved that DZP-CHP nanoparticles had a protective effect on the neurotoxicity induced by Aβ25–35 and were superior to free donepezil. Microthermal perpetual motion meter test showed that PS-DZP-CHP nanoparticles have an affinity with apolipoprotein E, which may be vital for this nanoparticle targeting to brain tissue.
Extended mining of the oil biosynthesis pathway in biofuel plant Jatropha curcas by combined analysis of transcriptome and gene interactome data
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Li Jing , Pan Bang-Zhen , Chen Wen , Chen Maosheng , Tang Mingyong , Xu Zeng-Fu , Liu Changning 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
Jatropha curcas L. is an important non-edible oilseed crop with a promising future in biodiesel production. However, little is known about the molecular biology of oil biosynthesis in this plant when compared with other established oilseed crops, resulting in the absence of agronomically improved varieties of Jatropha. To extensively discover the potentially novel genes and pathways associated with the oil biosynthesis in J. curcas, new strategy other than homology alignment is on the demand.

Results
In this study, we proposed a multi-step computational framework that integrates transcriptome and gene interactome data to predict functional pathways in non-model organisms in an extended process, and applied it to study oil biosynthesis pathway in J. curcas. Using homologous mapping against Arabidopsis and transcriptome profile analysis, we first constructed protein–protein interaction (PPI) and co-expression networks in J. curcas. Then, using the homologs of Arabidopsis oil-biosynthesis-related genes as seeds, we respectively applied two algorithm models, random walk with restart (RWR) in PPI network and negative binomial distribution (NBD) in co-expression network, to further extend oil-biosynthesis-related pathways and genes in J. curcas. At last, using k-nearest neighbors (KNN) algorithm, the predicted genes were further classified into different sub-pathways according to their possible functional roles.

Conclusions
Our method exhibited a highly efficient way of mining the extended oil biosynthesis pathway of J. curcas. Overall, 27 novel oil-biosynthesis-related gene candidates were predicted and further assigned to 5 sub-pathways. These findings can help better understanding of the oil biosynthesis pathway of J. curcas, as well as paving the way for the following J. curcas breeding application.
Validity and reliability of the Italian version of the cardiac quality of life questionnaire for pediatric patients with heart disease (PedsQLTM)
Authors: Grimaldi Capitello Teresa , Bevilacqua Francesca , Vallone Roberta , Dall’Oglio Anna Maria , Santato Francesca , Giannico Salvatore , Calcagni Giulio , Piga Simone , Ciofi degli Atti Marta , Gentile Simonetta , Rossi Angela 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
Congenital heart disease (CHD) accounts for nearly a third of all major congenital anomalies. Advances in pediatric cardiology shifted attention from mortality to morbidity and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients with CHD and impact on their families. The purposes of this study were to assess the validity and reliability of the Italian version of the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) Cardiac Module and to create normative data for the Italian population.

Methods
This was an observational cross-sectional study of pediatric patients (aged 2–18 years) with congenital or acquired Heart Disease (HD) and their parents. Families were asked to complete the cardiac pediatric health-related quality of life questionnaire (the Italian PedsQL™ 3.0 Cardiac Module) and the generic pediatric health-related quality of life questionnaire (PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales). The sequential validation procedure of the original United States version of the PedsQL™ 3.0 Cardiac Module was carried out under the instruction of the MAPI Research Institute.
To assess construct validity, Pearson’s correlation coefficients were assessed between scores on the Cardiac Module scales and scores on the scales of the General Module. To determine agreement between patient self-report and parent proxy-report, we used intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). To evaluate Internal consistency of items, we used Cronbach’s alpha Coefficient.

Results
The study enrolled 400 patients. Construct validity is good between PedsQL Cardiac Module total scores and PedsQL total scores (p < 0.001). The recommended standard value of 0.7 was reached on the Cardiac and General Module core scales. Intercorrelations between PedsQL Cardiac module and PedsQL scores revealed medium to large correlations. In general, correlations between Patient self-reports are poorer than Parent-proxy ones.

Conclusions
Cardiac PedsQL scores are valid and reliable for pediatric patients with congenital and acquired HD and may be useful for future research and clinical management.
An early predictive model of frailty for older inpatients according to nutritional risk: protocol for a cohort study in China
Authors: Liu Hongpeng , Jiao Jing , Zhu Minglei , Wen Xianxiu , Jin Jingfen , Wang Hui , Lv Dongmei , Zhao Shengxiu , Chen Wei , Wu Xinjuan , Xu Tao 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
Previous reports suggest that the attributes of frailty are multidimensional and include nutrition, cognition, mentality, and other aspects. We aim to develop an early warning model of frailty based on nutritional risk screening and apply the frailty early warning model in the clinic to screen high-risk patients and provide corresponding intervention target information.

Methods
The proposed study includes two stages. In the first stage, we aim to develop a prediction model of frailty among older inpatients with nutritional risk. Study data were collected from a population-based aging cohort study in China. A prospective cohort study design will be used in the second stage of the study. We will recruit 266 older inpatients (age 65 years or older) with nutritional risk, and we will apply the frailty model in the clinic to explore the predictive ability of the model in participants, assess patients’ health outcomes with implementation of the frailty model, and compare the model with existing frailty assessment tools. Patients’ health outcomes will be measured at admission and at 30-day follow-up.

Discussion
This project is the first to develop an early prediction model of frailty for older inpatients according to nutritional risk in a nationally representative sample of Chinese older inpatients of tertiary hospitals. The results will hopefully help to promote the development of more detailed frailty assessment tools according to nutritional risk, which may ultimately lead to reduced health care costs and improvement in independence and quality of life among geriatric patients.

Trial registration
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800017682, registered August 9, 2018; and ChiCTR2100044148, registered March 11, 2021.
Life satisfaction and depressive symptoms of mentally active older adults in Poland: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Van Damme-Ostapowicz Katarzyna , Cybulski Mateusz , Galczyk Monika , Krajewska-Kulak Elżbieta , Sobolewski Marek , Zalewska Anna 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
For older adults, life satisfaction and depressive symptoms are related to quality of life. In this group of society, life satisfaction is particularly associated with the emotional area. The notion of life satisfaction is related to many factors, such as personality traits, moods and various life events, and poses challenges in various aspects of everyday life. Given that mental health is one of the determinants of the quality of life of older adults, it is reasonable to conduct research among this growing group of the population. The aim of this study was to assess life satisfaction and depressive symptoms in mentally active older adults in Poland.

Methods
The study covered 125 attendees at the University of Healthy Senior (UHS) and 125 auditing students at the University of Psychogeriatric Prophylaxis (UPP), organised by the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Medical University of Bialystok, of whom 78.3% were female and 21.7% male. The study was conducted using four standardised scales: the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Beck Depression Inventory, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results
Seniors who participated in the study were satisfied with their lives; the average SWLS score was 23 points. Men rated their level of satisfaction higher than women: the median score on the SWLS was 26 points for men and 23 points for women. Life satisfaction and mental disorders did not differ on the basis of sex, age, or education (the type of place of education attended). As the level of depression increased, life satisfaction decreased. Statistically significant correlations of average strength were found between the point values of the four measures of depression under consideration and were evenly distributed from 0.57 to 0.69.

Conclusions
The high level of life satisfaction and a low level of mental disorders should be maintained in this population, and additional educational activities should be organised among seniors on a large scale. There were no differences in the distribution of psychometric measure scores among the three compared age groups of respondents in this study. Each of the questionnaires used measured of different aspects of depressive conditions, and it is worth using them in parallel rather than interchangeably.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a pregnant women with treatment resistance thrombocytopenic purpura with and suspicion to HELLP syndrome: a case report
Authors: Norooznezhad Amir Hossein , Nurzadeh Maryam , Darabi Mohammad Hasan , Naemi Mahsa 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) still is a global emergency. According to the studies, pregnant women are of the at risk populations and any underlying disease(s) might even worsen their condition. The aim of this study is reporting a complex case of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) during pregnancy who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 as well as suspicion of HELLP syndrome.

Case presentation
A 24-year-old woman with a platelet count of 6000/mL and resistance to conventional therapies was referred. A day after starting 0.5 g/day of methylprednisolone for her, fever and a decrease in SpO2 presented. According to the paraclinical investigations, COVID-19 was diagnosed and the conventional COVID-19 treatments started for her (the methylprednisolone pulse stopped). Due to the increased liver enzymes and low platelet count, with suspicion of HELLP syndrome, cesarean section surgery was performed which resulted in a healthy neonate. Then, the methylprednisolone pulse was restarted for and she developed an increase in the platelet count.

Conclusion
It is not clear how COVID-19 and pregnancy affected the patient’s condition and the underlying disease; however, it seems the delivery and/or restarting the methylprednisolone pulses caused improvement in her condition.
The CRCbiome study: a large prospective cohort study examining the role of lifestyle and the gut microbiome in colorectal cancer screening participants
Authors: Kværner Ane Sørlie , Birkeland Einar , Bucher-Johannessen Cecilie , Vinberg Elina , Nordby Jan Inge , Kangas Harri , Bemanian Vahid , Ellonen Pekka , Botteri Edoardo , Natvig Erik , Rognes Torbjørn , Hovig Eivind , Lyle Robert , Ambur Ole Herman , de Vos Willem M. , Bultman Scott , Hjartåker Anette , Landberg Rikard , Song Mingyang , Blix Hege Salvesen , Ursin Giske , Randel Kristin Ranheim , de Lange Thomas , Hoff Geir , Holme Øyvind , Berstad Paula , Rounge Trine B. 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) screening reduces CRC incidence and mortality. However, current screening methods are either hampered by invasiveness or suboptimal performance, limiting their effectiveness as primary screening methods. To aid in the development of a non-invasive screening test with improved sensitivity and specificity, we have initiated a prospective biomarker study (CRCbiome), nested within a large randomized CRC screening trial in Norway. We aim to develop a microbiome-based classification algorithm to identify advanced colorectal lesions in screening participants testing positive for an immunochemical fecal occult blood test (FIT). We will also examine interactions with host factors, diet, lifestyle and prescription drugs. The prospective nature of the study also enables the analysis of changes in the gut microbiome following the removal of precancerous lesions.MethodsThe CRCbiome study recruits participants enrolled in the Bowel Cancer Screening in Norway (BCSN) study, a randomized trial initiated in 2012 comparing once-only sigmoidoscopy to repeated biennial FIT, where women and men aged 50–74 years at study entry are invited to participate. Since 2017, participants randomized to FIT screening with a positive test result have been invited to join the CRCbiome study. Self-reported diet, lifestyle and demographic data are collected prior to colonoscopy after the positive FIT-test (baseline). Screening data, including colonoscopy findings are obtained from the BCSN database. Fecal samples for gut microbiome analyses are collected both before and 2 and 12 months after colonoscopy. Samples are analyzed using metagenome sequencing, with taxonomy profiles, and gene and pathway content as primary measures. CRCbiome data will also be linked to national registries to obtain information on prescription histories and cancer relevant outcomes occurring during the 10 year follow-up period.DiscussionThe CRCbiome study will increase our understanding of how the gut microbiome, in combination with lifestyle and environmental factors, influences the early stages of colorectal carcinogenesis. This knowledge will be crucial to develop microbiome-based screening tools for CRC. By evaluating biomarker performance in a screening setting, using samples from the target population, the generalizability of the findings to future screening cohorts is likely to be high.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.govIdentifier:NCT01538550.
Suicidal ideation associated with depression and social support: a survey-based analysis of older adults in South Korea
Authors: KIM Bum Jung , KIHL Taesuk 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundThis study examined the effect of depression on suicidal ideation among older adults in South Korea. Furthermore, this study investigated how social support, as a factor that reduces depression among older adults, mediates the relationship between depression and suicidal ideation.MethodsBased on a survey of 260 older adults in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province, suicidal ideation, depression, and social support were evaluated using the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, the Center of Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, and the Measurement of Social Support in the Elderly, respectively.ResultsA multiple regression analysis confirmed that depression and social support were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Based on path analysis, we found that social support mediated the relationship between depression and suicidal ideation.ConclusionsTherefore, this study provides concrete insights for policymakers and social workers about how suicidal ideation among older adults may be diminished. Particularly, the role of depression and social support in suicidal ideation is a matter of concern for older adults in South Korea.
Utilisation of outpatient physiotherapy in patients following total knee arthroplasty – a systematic review
Authors: Jacobs Hannes , Seeber Gesine H. , Allers Katharina , Hoffmann Falk 
Published: August 2021

AbstractObjectiveData on the utilisation of outpatient physiotherapy (PT) in patients following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are scarce, and available studies have not been systematically synthesised. This study aims to summarise the existing literature on outpatient PT following TKA as well as to identify factors associated with its use.MethodsA systematic literature search in MEDLINE (via PubMed), CINAHL, Scopus and PEDro was conducted in July 2020 without language restrictions. Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed study quality. The primary outcome was the proportion being treated with at least one session of outpatient PT (land- or water-based treatments supervised/provided by a qualified physiotherapist) during any defined period within 12 months following TKA. Furthermore, predictors for the use of PT were assessed. Studies including only revision surgeries or bilateral TKA were excluded.ResultsAfter screening 1934 titles/abstracts and 56 full text articles, 5 studies were included. Proportions of PT utilisation ranged from 16.7 to 84.5%. There were large variations in the time periods after hospital discharge (4 weeks to 12 months) and in the reporting of PT definitions. Female sex was associated with higher PT utilisation, and compared to patients after total hip arthroplasty, utilisation was higher among those following TKA.ConclusionDespite using a broad search strategy, we found only 5 studies assessing the utilisation of PT after hospital discharge in patients with TKA. These studies showed large heterogeneity in PT utilisation, assessed time periods and PT definitions. Clearly, more studies from different countries with uniform PT definitions are needed to address this relevant public health question.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer screening among women in metropolitan Lima, Peru: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Pieters Michelle M. , Proeschold-Bell Rae Jean , Coffey Emily , Huchko Megan J. , Vasudevan Lavanya 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths among women of reproductive age in Peru. Screening and early identification of pre-cancerous lesions are a cornerstone of the cervical cancer prevention strategy. Yet, there is limited literature on barriers to screening among Peruvian women. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to examine Peruvian women’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer screening and identify possible reasons for the gap between knowledge and screening.

Methods
The study was conducted in metropolitan Lima from June–August 2019. We purposefully recruited 12 women who had previously been screened, and 12 who had never been screened for cervical cancer. The women completed a 40-question knowledge and attitude survey and an in-depth interview about barriers to screening. Descriptive analysis was used to calculate a knowledge and attitude score and qualitative analysis was guided by the Health Belief Model constructs.

Results
Previously screened participants had greater knowledge of cervical cancer symptoms, risk factors, and prevention (mean score = 28.08, S.D. = 4.18) compared to participants who had never been screened (mean score = 21.25, S.D. = 6.35). Both groups described lack of priority and embarrassment as barriers to cervical cancer screening. For participants who had never been screened before, major barriers included the fear of a cancer diagnosis and lack of information about screening services. Pregnancy, unusual gynecological symptoms and encouragement from friends and family were cues to action for participants seeking screening. Most participants in both groups recognized the benefits of getting screened for cervical cancer. Being previously screened increased participants’ self-efficacy for engaging in screening behaviors again. Misconceptions regarding screening procedures and cervical cancer were also noted as barriers for participants accessing screening services.

Conclusions
Improving knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer and screening programs may improve screening behaviors among women. Targeting women who have never been screened before and addressing their fears and concerns around embarrassment may be other areas for intervention. Misconceptions that deter women from screening services are an important issue that should be addressed in order to increase the number of women who get timely screenings.