bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Isometric Exercise on Blood Pressure in Pre-Hypertensive and Hypertensive Individuals: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Oliveira Patricia Caetano , Lehnen Alexandre Machado , Waclawovsky Gustavo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundSystemic arterial hypertension (HTN) is the leading risk factor of cardiovascular disease death. Lifestyle changes are key for the prevention and management of HTN. Regular aerobic exercise training is recommended as part of the management of HTN; and dynamic resistance exercise should be prescribed as an adjuvant to aerobic training. Recent evidence points to potential benefits of isometric resistance training in reducing blood pressure (BP). Yet, the hypotensive effect of isometric exercise in pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals is not fully understood. Thus, we will examine the effect of isometric exercise in pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals through a systematic review and meta-analysis. MethodsOur systematic review study will include randomized clinical trials (RCTs) selected from the electronic databases MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE and PEDro published in English, Spanish and Portuguese language. We will follow the PRISMA guidelines and PICOS framework. Our search will involve studies with both male and female participants aged 18 years or more diagnosed with prehypertension or HTN performing one session of isometric exercise (acute effect) or isometric exercise training (chronic effect) compared to a control group (no exercise). We will use Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool to evaluate the quality of the studies and RStudio software (v1.3.959 for Windows) for statistical analyses. DiscussionA meta-analysis of a homogeneous sample of pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals involving isometric handgrip exercise alone can further support previous findings and improve our understanding and recommendations for the management of these populations. Systematic review registrationThe study protocol for this review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD 42020213081).
Long non-coding RNA CASC7 Contributes to the Progression of Sepsis-Induced Liver Injury by Targeting miR-217/TLR4 Axis
Authors: Zhou Xiaoqian , Zhang Tao , Tang Yanhua , Jiang Wenyong , Yang Weiwen , Wang He , Liu Gang 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Sepsis is a system inflammation disease that can lead to liver injury. Long non-coding RNAs as crucial regulators participate in the regulation of sepsis-induced liver injury. However, the role of lncRNA CASC7 (CASC7) in the modulation of sepsis-induced liver injury remains elusive. Here, we aimed to explore the effect of CASC7 on the sepsis-induced liver injury. Methods: The sepsis mouse model was established in BALB/c mice by the treatment of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The effect of CASC7 on sepsis-induced liver injury was analyzed by Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining, ELISA assays, TUNEL detection kit, CCK‐8 assays, and Annexin V-FITC Apoptosis Detection Kit in vivo or in vitro. The mechanism investigation was performed using RNA pull-down, luciferase reporter gene assays, qPCR assays, and Western blot analysis.Results: The expression of CASC7 was elevated in a time-dependent manner in the liver tissues of the sepsis mice and LPS-treated LO2 cells. The depletion of CASC7 decreased the LPS treatment-induced liver injury in the sepsis mice. The treatment of LPS enhanced the apoptosis in the sepsis mice, while the depletion of CASC7 blocked this enhancement in the system. The CASC7 knockdown inhibited the LPS-enhanced expression of TNF-α and IL-1β in the mice. CASC7 served as a sponge for the miR-217 in the liver cells. CASC7 promoted the progression of sepsis-induced liver injury by sponging miR-217. MiR-217 attenuated sepsis-induced liver injury by targeting TLR4. Conclusions: Thus, we conclude that CASC7 contributes to the progression of sepsis-induced liver injury by targeting miR-217/TLR4 axis.
Clinical Endoscopic and Histological Characteristics of Helicobacter Pylori Positive and Negative Armenian Children with Recurrent Abdominal Pain and/or Dyspepsia
Authors: Shahinyan Tatevik , Amaryan Gayane , Tadevosyan Artashes , Braegger Christian Peter 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundRecurrent abdominal pain (RAP) and dyspepsia are common complaints in children. These symptoms are often associated with Helicobacter pylori (Hp)infection. Aim of the present study was to prospectively analyze clinical, endoscopic and histological characteristics of Hp+ and Hp- children with RAP and/or dyspepsia. MethodsPatients aged 2-18 years with RAP and/or dyspepsia, referred for upper endoscopy to Arabkir MC from November 2015 to December 2017, were involved in the study. Histology was assessed according to the updated Sydney system. Gastric and duodenal specimens were stained by modified Giemsa staining for Hp infection. One antral biopsy was cultured in Hp selective media. Results150 patients were included into the study: 70.7% Hp+,29.3% Hp-. Nausea and vomiting were significantly more common in Hp+ patients (p<0.05). Gastric nodularity (p=0.02), erosions in the stomach (p=0.056), and duodenal erosions (p=0.019) were more common in Hp+. Chronic active (p=0.027) and non-active gastritis (p=0.002), cumulative findings of metaplasia/dysplasia/atrophy in the stomach (p=0.014) and chronic non-active duodenitis (p=0.016), were significantly more common in Hp+ patients. ConclusionHp infection prevalence is high in Armenian children with dyspepsia and/or RAP. Clinical symptoms, endoscopic findings and histopathological findings were significantly different in Hp+ patients as compared to Hp- patients.
Assessing Access and Healthcare Quality of Maternal and Child Health Services in Facilities of Kasai Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Authors: Ndela Britou , Ngwala Philippe , N’siala Adrien , Kalonji Albert , Minuku Felix , Ntatukidi Nancy , Bokole Harmonie , Masumbuku Jean-Jacques , Kintaudi Ngoma Miezi , Mandja Bien-Aimé M. 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is classified among the 5 countries with the highest global maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and highest under-five mortality rate (U5MR) in the world. Kasai is one of 14 provinces of the DRC, which have a high U5MR and MMR. Despite this overriding concern, almost no studies have been conducted to assess maternal et child situation in this province. The aim of this study was to assess access, availability, and quality of maternal and child health services in Kasai Province in the DRC. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 49 Health Facilities (HFs) integrating quantitative and qualitative data collection was conducted in 18 Health Zones in Kasai Province in the DRC. Documentary review, interviews and direct observation of HFs were performed to collect data. Pearson’s chi-squared test was performed to establish the relation between variables.Results: Nearly 54 % of visited HFs population had a geographical access to maternal and child health services and the majority of medical acts were unaffordable. Basic and comprehensive emergency obstetric care (EmOC) were offered respectively by only 11.8% and 7.6% of HF and none provided high quality basic or comprehensive EmOC. This low availability and quality of EmOC are due to the insufficiency of necessary inputs and personal for maternal and child health services in the majority of HFs. Conclusion: The situation of maternal and child health services is very precarious in Kasai Province. The improvement of EmOC coverage will require rehabilitation of infrastructure, dotation of equipment, regular supply of medicines and strengthening of human resource capacity.
Evaluation of the Profitability of Using Solar Collectors in Single-Family Housing Industry - The Case of Poland
Authors: Niekurzak Mariusz , Kubińska-Jabcoń Ewa 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: The growing consumption is what drives the development of unsustainable energy and material-intensive production technologies that emit large quantities of pollutants into the atmosphere, water and land. Obtaining green energy allows to reduce the interference with the environment and, consequently, fits into a sustainable energy development strategy. In order to achieve the emission targets set by the EU for Poland, it is necessary to prioritise the development of Renewable Energy Sources technologies within the energy sector.Methods: The purpose of the study is to present the results of the research relating to the profitability of solar collectors investment for single-family houses in Poland. The research was presented on the basis of the legal conditions applicable to micro installations in the light of the amendment of the RES Act and the impact of these amendments on the aspects of the profitability of such investment was determined. Results: On the basis of the constructed economic model used to assess the profitability of increasing the area of solar collectors, it has been shown that an operating installation will bring measurable economic benefits in the form of reduction in the amount of energy purchased from the current supplier and environmental benefits in the form of reduction of carbon dioxide emissions to the atmosphere. The obtained results have been generalised, which allows to use them in the process of selecting the size of collector area for similar installations. Conclusion: The cost-effectiveness analysis carried out in respect of a detached house allowed to demonstrate that this project is fully justified. Furthermore, pursuant to the Renewable Energy Sources Act in force in Poland, treating a small entrepreneur as a prosumer who may generally take advantage of favourable conditions for discounting the produced energy leads to very favourable possibilities of settling electricity. Considering an entrepreneur as a prosumer who may use one-off depreciation of a solar collectors installation as a fixed asset and request for VAT refund is what makes such an investment very attractive in financial terms and makes it difficult to find a safe investment alternative characterised by such a high rate of return.
The Comparison of Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy-guided for Determining Puncture Entry Point of Percutaneous Vertebroplasty
Authors: Ye Sen , Lai Xiaorong , Zhong Lingjian , Yu Changzhang , Chen Yanzhen 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of ultrasound and fluoroscopy-guided for determining the puncture entry point of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP). Methods: From November 2018 to December 2019, a total of 50 eligible patients with thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) treated by PVP were retrospectively collected, of which 25 cases were in ultrasound-guided group and the other 25 cases were in fluoroscopy-guided group. Radiation doses, one-time localization success rate, operation time, clinical efficacy and complications incidence were compared between the two groups. Results: Ultimately, 46 patients completed followed-up, whose average follow-up time was 9 months, the dose and times of fluoroscopy and operation time in ultrasound-guided group statically significantly decreased compared with fluoroscopy-guided group (P<0.01). The one-time localization success rate in ultrasound-guided group and fluoroscopy-guided group were 68.2% and 37.5% respectively ( x 2 = 4.33, P=0.037), whose difference was statistically significant (P<0.01). However, there was no significant difference in the visual analog scale (VAS) scores of back pain relief between the two groups (P>0.05). There were no postoperative complications such as infection, hematoma formation and fracture nonunion observed between the two groups.Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided entry point determination for PVP puncture is safe, which can significantly improve the success rate of one-time localization and decrease radiation exposure and operation time.
PREBIOTIC: A Study Protocol of a Randomised Controlled Trial to Assess Prebiotic Supplementation in Kidney Transplant Recipients for Preventing Infections and Gastrointestinal Upset: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Chan Samuel , Hawley Carmel M , Pascoe Elaine M , Cao Christopher , Campbell Katrina L , Campbell Scott B , Francis Ross S , Hale Rachael , Isbel Nicole M , Morrison Mark , Johnson David W 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundModulating the microbiota in the large intestine of kidney transplant recipients through prebiotic supplementation may prevent infectious complications from occurring. To date, there have been no interventional trials which have investigated this novel treatment in kidney transplantation. The aim of PREBIOTIC is to assess the feasibility of performing a randomised controlled trial of prebiotics in reducing infections and gastrointestinal symptoms in kidney transplant recipients.MethodsSixty kidney transplant patients will be recruited to a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised feasibility trial. Patients will be provided with prebiotic therapy or placebo for four to six weeks. Outcomes will include recruitment, adherence, tolerance, retention, laboratory parameters (including serum indoxyl sulphate, ρ-cresyl sulphate and stool collection), patients’ self-assessed quality of life, gastrointestinal symptoms and clinical outcomes.DiscussionThis trial will assess the feasibility of prebiotic supplementation in kidney transplant recipients. Prebiotics may not only alter the gut microbiota and their inherent metabolism and production of uraemic toxins, but may also prevent infections from occurring in kidney transplant recipients.Trial RegistrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number ACTRN12618001057279p. The date of registration was 25th June 2018, https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=375370&isReview=true.
Finite element analysis of double-plate fixation using reversed locking compression-distal femoral plates for Vancouver B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures
Authors: Takahashi Daisuke , Noyama Yoshihiro , Asano Tsuyoshi , Shimizu Tomohiro , Irie Tohru , Terkawi Mohamad Alaa , Iwasaki Norimasa 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Internal fixation is recommended for treating Vancouver B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures. Although several fixation procedures have been developed with high fixation stability and union rates, long-term weight-bearing constructs are still lacking. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the stability of a double-plate procedure using reversed contralateral locking compression-distal femoral plates for fixation of Vancouver B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures under full weight-bearing.Methods: Single- and double-plate fixation procedures for locking compression-distal femoral plates were analysed under an axial load of 1,500 N by finite element analysis and biomechanical loading tests. A vertical loading test was performed to the prosthetic head, and the displacements and strains were calculated based on load-displacement and load-strain curves generated by the static compression tests.Results: The finite element analysis revealed that double-plate fixation significantly reduced stress concentration at the lateral plate place on the fracture site. Under full weight-bearing, the maximum von Mises stress in the lateral plate was 268 MPa. On the other hand, the maximum stress in the single-plating method occurred at the defect level of the femur with a maximum stress value of 1,303 MPa. The principal strains of single- and double-plate fixation were 0.63% and 0.058%, respectively. Consistently, in the axial loading test, the strain values at a 1,500 N loading of the single- and double-plate fixation methods were 1,274.60 ± 11.53 and 317.33 ± 8.03 (× 10-6), respectively.Conclusions: The present study suggests that dual-plate fixation with reversed locking compression-distal femoral plates may be an excellent treatment procedure for patients with Vancouver B1 fractures, allowing for full weight-bearing in the early postoperative period.
To be or not to be: Relationship between grandparent status and health and wellbeing
Authors: Lai Daniel W.L. , Li Jia , Bai Xue 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundIt is common for older people to become grandparents in later life. However, the impacts of grandparenting on their health and well-being remain ambiguous, especially in Chinese society, where the family is in the core of culture. The current study explored the relationship between grandparenthood and Chinese older people’s health and psychological well-being in Hong Kong. MethodsCross-sectional data were collected from a sample of 1,208 Hong Kong Chinese older people aged 55 and above through a telephone survey conducted in 2019. Participants were grouped into three categories: current grandparents (n = 507), grandparents-to-be (n = 275), and grandparents-not-to-be (n = 426). Multivariate linear regressions were performed to examine the relationship between grandparenting status and health and well-being outcomes, including self-rated physical health, mental health, resilience, and happiness. The potential moderating roles of older adults’ demographic characteristics, including age, sex, education, marital status, financial status, were also examined. ResultsBivariate analyses suggested statistically significant differences between health and well-being across the three groups of participants. Regression models showed that, compared with grandparents-not-to-be, being a current grandparent was associated with a significantly higher happiness level. Being a future grandparent was associated with significantly higher levels of happiness, resilience, and self-rated physical health. Moderating analyses showed that age, marital status, and educational level could moderate the relationship between grandparent status and resilience and self-rated mental health. ConclusionsThe current study offers preliminary insights into the significant relationship between grandparenthood and older adults’ health and well-being. It calls for future studies to further explore the mechanisms between grandparenthood and the healthy ageing of different subgroups of older adults.
Development of a Managed Clinical Network for Children’s Palliative Care – A Qualitative Evaluation
Authors: Papworth Andrew , Fraser Lorna , Taylor Jo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background Consistent evidence suggests that children’s palliative care is not equitable and managed clinical networks (MCNs) have been recommended as a solution. This study explored the perspectives of health professionals involved in the development of a children’s palliative care MCN, with an aim to identify barriers and enablers of successful implementation.Methods Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 45 healthcare staff with a role in developing the MCN or in the delivery of children’s palliative care (September 2019-March 2020). Results The study explored health professionals’ perceptions of the MCN features that had helped to formalise governance processes, establish training and networking opportunities, standardise practice, and improve collaboration between organisations. These include the funded MCN co-ordinator, committed individuals who lead the MCN, and a governance structure that fosters collaboration. However, the MCN’s development was impeded by cross-cutting barriers including limited funding for the MCN and children’s palliative care more generally, no shared technology, lack of standards and evidence-base for children’s palliative care, and shortage of palliative care staff. These barriers impacted on the MCN’s ability to improve and evaluate palliative care provision and affected member engagement. Competing organisational priorities and differences between NHS and non-NHS members also impeded progress. Training provision was well received, although barriers to access were identified. Conclusions Key features of children’s palliative care can act as barriers to developing a managed clinical network. Managing expectations and raising awareness, providing accessible and relevant training, and sharing early achievements through ongoing evaluation can help to sustain member engagement, which is crucial to a network’s success.
Psychometric validation of the French self and proxy versions of the PedsQLTM 4.0 generic health-related quality of life questionnaire for 8 to 12 year-old children.
Authors: Amedro Pascal , Huguet Helena , Macioce Valerie , Dorka Raphael , Auer Annie , Guillaumont Sophie , Auquier Pascal , Abassi Hamouda , Picot Marie-Christine 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0 (PedsQLTM4.0) is a generic health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaire, widely used in pediatric clinical trials but not yet validated in France. We performed the psychometric validation of the self and proxy PedsQLTM4.0 generic questionnaires for French children aged 8 to 12 years old. Methods: Thise bicentric multicenter prospective cross-sectional study included 123 children and their parents with congenital heart disease (CHD) and 97 controls. The psychometric validation method was based on the consensus-based standards for the selection of health measurement instruments (COSMIN). The reliability was tested using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). To evaluate the validity of this scale, content, face, criterion, and construct validity psychometric proprieties were tested. Acceptability was studied regarding questionnaires’ completion and the existence of a floor or a ceiling effect.Results: Test–retest reliability intra-class correlation coefficients were mainly in good range (0.49-0.66) for both self and proxy reports. Face validity was very good among parents (0.85) and children (0.75). Content validity was good (0.70), despite misinterpretation of some items. In construct validity, each subscale had acceptable goodinternal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α >0.72 in self-reports, >0.69 in proxy-reports). In the confirmatory factor analysis, the goodness-of-fit statistics rejected the original structure with 4 factors. The exploratory factor analysis revealed an alternative two-factor structure corresponding to physical and psychological dimensions. Convergent validity was supported by moderate (>0.41) to high correlations (0.57) between PedsQL and Kidscreeen questionnaires for physical, emotion and school dimensions. The ability of the PedsQL to discriminate CHD severity was better with physical, social and total scores for both self-reports and proxy-reports.Conclusions: The PedsQLTM4.0 generic self and proxy HRQoL questionnaires found good psychometric properties, with regard to acceptability, responsiveness, validity, and reliability. This instrument appeared to be easy to use and comprehend within the target population of children aged 8 to 12 years old and their parents. Trial registration: This study was approved by the South-Mediterranean-IV Ethics Committee and registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01202916), https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01202916.