bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory Effects of Digoxin and Digitoxin on Cell Growth in Human Ovarian Cancer Cell Line SKOV-3
Authors: Chou Jou-Chun , Li Jie-Hau , Chen Chih-Chieh , Chen Chien-Wei , Lin Ho , Wang Paulus S. 
Published: March 2021

Background: Cardiac glycosides (CGs) possess a chemical structure similar to steroids, and are inhibitors of the sodium potassium pump. An anti-tumor effect of CGs in breast and prostate cancers has been reported, but the effect of CGs on ovarian cancer is still unclear. Aims: In this study, the effects of CGs on proliferation, cytotoxicity and cell cycle of ovarian cancer cell line (SKOV-3) have been investigated. Procedure: The cell proliferation and cytotoxicity were detected by MTT assay and LDH activity assay, respectively. CGs, at concentrations higher than IC50, decreased cell proliferation and showed increased cytotoxicity toward SKOV-3 cells. The colony-formation ability was reduced after treatment with digoxin and digitoxin for 10 days. Furthermore, we explored the effect of digoxin and digitoxin on the distribution of cell cycle by flow cytometry. Results: Results revealed that both digoxin and digitoxin led to cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase with 24 or 48 hours, but the arrest of G0/G1 phase was not observed at 72 hours. We evaluated the percentage of hypodiploid cell population as an index of the cellular fragments through flow cytometry. The data indicated that cellular fragments were significantly increased by treating with digitoxin at the concentrations of IC50 and 10−6 M for 72 hours. Conclusion: Taken together, these data suggest that CGs decreased cell proliferation and increased cytotoxicity through cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. CGs have anti-tumor effect in SKOV-3 cells and might be a potential therapeutic drug for ovarian cancer. Since this study is a preliminary investigation of CGs on SKOV-3 cells, more experiments might be performed in the future. Furthermore, more ovarian cancer cell lines might also be employed in the future studies to confirm the effect of CGs in ovarian cancer.
Diltiazem Does Not Prevent Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation After Thoracoscopic Lobectomy
Authors: Lederer Madeline R. , Deemer Alexa , Liongson Franzes A. , Roma Nicholas , Lee Charles T. , Stoltzfus Jill C. , Burfeind William R. 
Published: March 2021

Objective Thoracoscopic lobectomy is associated with lower rates of adverse events compared to thoracotomy. Despite this, postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) occurs in at least 10% of patients. Our objective is to determine if prophylaxis with diltiazem significantly reduced POAF events. Methods Patients without prior history of atrial fibrillation who underwent thoracoscopic lobectomy from 2007 to 2016 at one institution were analyzed in a retrospective cohort study utilizing a prospective database. Patients treated from 2007 to 2012 received no prophylaxis. Patients treated after 2012 received diltiazem postoperatively. All patients were monitored with continuous telemetry postoperatively. Multivariate direct logistic regression was performed to determine independent predictors of POAF. We report adjusted odds ratios and accompanying 95% confidence intervals, with P < 0.05 denoting statistical significance. Results The final regression model included 416 patients (52 with POAF, 364 without). In univariate analysis, the variables of body mass index and history of congestive heart failure, diabetes, or hypertension, and prophylaxis status did not meet inclusion criteria. Age, gender, history of stroke or transient ischemic attack, and vascular disease were included. Only ages 65 to 74 ( P = 0.03) and ≥75 ( P = 0.02), compared to <65, were statistically significant predictors of POAF. Adjusted odds ratios of ages 65 to 74 and ≥75 were 2.88 and 2.62, respectively. Conclusions Diltiazem prophylaxis did not significantly reduce POAF incidence following thoracoscopic lobectomy. Further study is warranted since POAF remains an unwanted source of morbidity and cost for lobectomy patients.
Harnessing Technology for Research During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed Methods Diary Study Protocol
Authors: Saltzman L. Y. , Terzis L. D. , Hansel T. C. , Blakey J. M. , Logan D. , Bordnick P. S. 
Published: March 2021

Project Title: Psychosocial Reactions to a Global Pandemic: A Diary Study During COVID-19. Design: The study uses a mixed methods design that includes both a cross-sectional quantitative survey and qualitative diary entries submitted online eight times by student participants. Context of Study: The study timeline spans the full shutdown, phase 1 reopening, and phase 2 reopening of New Orleans Louisiana. Objectives: The study has three primary objectives: (1) To better understand the experiences of Social Work Students during the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) To explore risk and protective factors that influences Social Work Students’ ability to cope with stressors and changes associated with the COVID-19 pandemic; and (3) to track changes over time in coping among Social Work Students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Study Population: Current Master of Social Work (MSW) Students enrolled at Tulane University during the COVID-19 Pandemic will be invited to participate in this study.
Altering the rehabilitation environment to improve stroke survivor activity: A Phase II trial
Authors: Janssen Heidi , Ada Louise , Middleton Sandy , Pollack Michael , Nilsson Michael , Churilov Leonid , Blennerhassett Jannette , Faux Steven , New Peter , McCluskey Annie , Spratt Neil J , Bernhardt Julie ,   on behalf of the AREISSA Trial group
Published: March 2021

Background Environmental enrichment involves organization of the environment and provision of equipment to facilitate engagement in physical, cognitive, and social activities. In animals with stroke, it promotes brain plasticity and recovery. Aims To assess the feasibility and safety of a patient-driven model of environmental enrichment incorporating access to communal and individual environmental enrichment. Methods A nonrandomized cluster trial with blinded measurement involving people with stroke ( n = 193) in four rehabilitation units was carried out. Feasibility was operationalized as activity 10 days after admission to rehabilitation and availability of environmental enrichment. Safety was measured as falls and serious adverse events. Benefit was measured as clinical outcomes at three months, by an assessor blinded to group. Results The experimental group ( n = 91) spent 7% (95% CI −14 to 0) less time inactive, 9% (95% CI 0–19) more time physically, and 6% (95% CI 2–10) more time socially active than the control group ( n = 102). Communal environmental enrichment was available 100% of the time, but individual environmental enrichment was rarely within reach (24%) or sight (39%). There were no between-group differences in serious adverse events or falls at discharge or three months or in clinical outcomes at three months. Conclusions This patient-driven model of environmental enrichment was feasible and safe. However, the very modest increase in activity by people with stroke, and the lack of benefit in clinical outcomes three months after stroke do not provide justification for an efficacy trial.
Thermal Effects on DNA Degradation in Blood and Seminal Stains: Forensic View
Authors: Abdel Hady Randa H. , Thabet Hayam Z. , Ebrahem Noha Esmael , Yassa Heba A. 
Published: March 2021

Forensic investigations using DNA analysis have been grown rapidly. Samples retrieved from crime scene may be exposed to different conditions before proceeding. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different grades of temperature and burn on DNA extraction and typing. Methods: Seven mL of blood and four mL of semen were collected from each volunteer. Effects of temperature grades (100 °C, 50 °C, 37 °C, 4 °C, −20 °C, and burn) on blood and seminal stain were tested. Results: Bloodstains exposed to temperature grades 100 °C, 50 °C, 37 °C, 4 °C, and −20 °C can be identified using preliminary test while burnt blood stain cannot. Seminal stains exposed to temperature grades 37 °C, 4 °C, and −20 °C can be identified by Florence test while those exposed to 100 °C, 50 °C, and burn cannot. Blood and seminal stains exposed to temperature grades 100 °C, 50 °C, and burn show marked reduction in DNA concentration while maximum DNA conc could be recovered from stains exposed to temperature grade temperature. Both blood and seminal DNA was affected only in case of burn without significant difference between THO1 and Amelogenin primers. Conclusion: High environmental temperature affect the quantity of extracted DNA from different stains but less effect on the quality of extracted DNA. Burn affects both preliminary test, DNA quantity, and quality in stains.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome in a Patient With Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis: Case Report and Review of Related Literature
Authors: Sarmiento Robert Joseph C. , Diestro Jose Danilo B. , Antonio Athena Kate D. , Prado Mario B. , Adiao Karen Joy B. , Dioquino-Maligaso Carissa Paz 
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is a severe but treatable disease that presents with symptoms similar to neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Case Report: We describe a 28-year old female who initially presented with headaches, behavioral changes, anxiety, lip tremors, and rigidity of extremities. She was prescribed with olanzapine and later manifested with neuroleptic malignant syndrome symptoms such as decrease in sensorium, muscle rigidity, hyperthermia and tachycardia. Further investigation showed presence of bilateral ovarian teratoma and anti-NMDAR antibodies in her serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Symptoms resolved after intravenous high-dose methylprednisolone, bilateral oophoro-cystectomy, and intravenous immunoglobulin administration. Overlapping pathological mechanisms of anti- NMDAR encephalitis and NMS were discussed. Ten patients with anti- NMDAR encephalitis and NMS were noted in a review of literature. Prognosis was favorable and intervention ranged from supportive to methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin administration, plasma exchange and teratoma resection. Conclusion: Anti- NMDAR encephalitis patients are at risk for NMS due to antipsychotic intolerance and other interrelated pathophysiological mechanisms. The overlap between the signs and symptoms of anti-NMDAR encephalitis and NMS poses a diagnostic dilemma and warrants a careful investigation and management.
Urban Particulate Matters May Affect Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Tight Junction Disruption in Nasal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Park Soo Kyoung , Yeon Sun Hee , Choi Mi-Ra , Choi Seung Hyeon , Lee Sung Bok , Rha Ki-sang , Kim Yong Min 
Published: March 2021

Background Exposure to airborne urban particulate matter (UPM) has been closely related to the development and aggravation of respiratory disease, including sinonasal disorders. Objective The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of UPM on nasal epithelial tight junctions (TJs) and mucosal barrier function and delineate the underlying mechanism by using both in vitro and in vivo models. Methods In this study, human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) and BALB/c mice were exposed to UPMs. UPM 1648a and 1649 b were employed. TJ and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker expression was measured using western blot analysis and immunofluorescence. TJ integrity and nasal epithelial barrier function were evaluated by transepithelial electric resistance (TER) and paracellular flux. In addition, the effects of N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) on UPM-induced nasal epithelial cells were investigated. Results UPM significantly impaired the nasal epithelial barrier, as demonstrated by decreased protein expression of TJ and ER stress markers in human nasal epithelial cells. This finding was in parallel to reduced transepithelial electrical resistance and increased fluorescein isothiocyanate–dextran permeability. Pretreatment with NAC decreased the degree of UPM-mediated ER stress and restored nasal epithelial barrier disruption in human nasal epithelial cells (hNEC) and the nasal mucosa of experimental animals. Conclusion These data suggest that UPMs may induce nasal epithelial barrier dysfunction by targeting TJs and ER stress could be related in this process. Based on these results, we suggest that suppression of this process with an inhibitor targeting ER stress responses could represent a novel promising therapeutic target in UPM-induced sinonasal disease.
Social innovation for life expectancy extension utilizing a platform-centered system used in the Iwaki health promotion project: A protocol paper
Authors: Nakaji Shigeyuki , Ihara Kazushige , Sawada Kaori , Parodi Stefano , Umeda Takashi , Takahashi Ippei , Murashita Koichi , Kurauchi Shizuka , Tokuda Itoyo 
Published: March 2021

Introduction: We are trying to create a platform for social innovation to extend life span. Methods: Since 2005, health data (approximately 3000 items per person as of 2020) of approximately 1000 adults have been collected each year during the Iwaki Health Promotion Project. The industry, government, academia, and citizens have involvements in data collection, aiming to build a platform that encourages societal innovation and subsequently extends life expectancy in Aomori. The Iwaki Health Promotion Project has been supported financially by the Japanese government since it was selected as the Center of Innovation program in 2013. Results: Since the numbers of academia, industries, governments, and citizens involved in the Iwaki Health Promotion Project increased over the years, the big data produced during the project has become increasingly pluripotent and adaptable. It has been used to promote public health, which has also created a stronger partnership among companies and research organizations. Consequently, the amount of data collected from the project has gained attention and became more open to companies and researchers participating in the Iwaki Health Promotion Project, resulted in establishing a larger platform. It also led to the acquisition of external funding, publications of numerous research papers, creation of new health examinations, and the establishment of the Health Promotion Center (an institution for cultivating health volunteers). Conclusion: The Iwaki Health Promotion Project aims not only to produce a pluripotent big data but also to improve the average life expectancy of Aomori by creating a large platform in the society. Its positive impact in the future is infinite and will keep growing as long as it is maintained by the society.
Magnitude and causes of cancelation for elective surgical procedures in Debre Tabor General hospital: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Demilew Basazinew Chekol , Yisak Hiwot , Terefe Agazhe Aemiro 
Published: March 2021

Objectives: Elective surgical case cancelation is a common problem and can cause prolonged wait times, harm to patients, and is a waste of scarce resources. Reasons for cancelations are complex and change place to place because they are related to patients, organizational issues, and clinical staff. So, this study is aimed to assess the magnitude and causes of the case cancelation among elective surgical cases in a general hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional prospective study design was conducted on 221 patients scheduled for elective surgery from March 1 to May 30 2019 G.C. All consecutive elective surgical cases scheduled during the study period were included in the study. Data were collected using prepared and pretested questionnaire and entered in the SPSS version 20 for analysis purpose. Results: During the study, 221 patients were scheduled for elective surgical operations, among these 150 (67.9%) patients were operated on the planned date of surgery whereas 71 (32.1%) operations were canceled. The decision for the cancelation was done by the anesthetist due to preoperative coexisting disease findings and inadequate preparation of the patient for the intended operations were 33 (46.5%) followed by administrative-related issues which account 26 (36.6%). Conclusion: Cancelation of elective surgical procedures on the day of surgery was high in this study due to different reasons. Cancelation can be minimized if all the responsible bodies can communicate early regard to the patient.
Smartphone-guided secondary prevention for patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Eckardt Irina , Buschhaus Clara , Nickenig Georg , Jansen Felix 
Published: March 2021

Introduction Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Lifestyle change is a crucial part of secondary prevention. Only 30% of CAD patients follow the corresponding guideline recommendations. The widespread adoption of smartphones offers the opportunity to integrate secondary prevention into the daily routine of CAD patients. Methods We developed an app to integrate secondary prevention into CAD patients’ everyday life (smartphone-guided secondary prevention, SGSP). The app provided a daily 15-minute program that included video-guided exercises, video sessions with background information about CAD, and a tool to record blood pressure and heart rate once a day. The SGSP app was tested with the primary outcome of 28-day adherence. The secondary outcome was a composite of (1) self-reported behavioral changes, (2) gain of knowledge about cardiovascular risk factors, and (3) an increase in quality of life. Results Of the 66 patients screened, 43 (65%) were included into the study and, of those, 17 (40%) used the app continuously for 28 days. From this group, 14 (82%) were physically more active and ten (59%) improved their dietary habits. Usage of the SGSP app was also associated with a gain of knowledge about cardiovascular risk factors (70% physical activity, 59% healthy diet). Conclusion The regular use of a SGSP app appears to support lifestyle changes in patients with CAD.
Electrochemical treatment of ex vivo human abdominal skin and potential use in scar management: A pilot study
Authors: Hutchison Dana M , Hakimi Amir A , Wijayaweera Avin , Seo Soohong , Hong Ellen M , Pham Tiffany T , Bircan Melissa , Sivoraphonh Ryan , Dunn Brandyn , Kobayashi Mark R , Kim Sehwan , Wong Brian JF 
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Scar treatments aim to address pathologic collagen deposition; however, they can be expensive or difficult to control. Electrochemical therapy (ECT) offers a simple alternative treatment. The purpose of this study is to examine the acid-base and histological changes in ex vivo human abdominal skin following ECT. Methods: Forty-two ex vivo human panniculus tissue sections collected from six individuals were tumesced with normal saline. ECT was performed by inserting two platinum needle electrodes connected to a DC power supply into each specimen. Voltage was varied (3–6 V) and applied for 5 minutes. Each specimen was sectioned across both electrode insertion sites and immediately stained with pH sensitive dye. The width of dye color change for each dosimetry pair was calculated. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to evaluate samples. Results and Discussion: ECT caused a spatially localised and dose-dependent increased area of acidic and basic pH around the anode and cathode, respectively. A significantly greater mean width of pH change was generated at the cathode compared to the anode in all treatment groups. Histological evaluation displayed broad condensation and hyalinisation of dermal collagen. Conclusion: ECT triggered dermal pH alterations and changed the underlying structural framework of the specimen. This technology may serve as a low-cost, minimally invasive local soft-tissue remodeling technique with potential application in scar management. Level of Evidence: 5 Lay Summary Electrochemical therapy is a novel treatment that causes spatially selective dermal injury in areas of interest. This study measures the effects of electrochemical therapy when applied to abdominal skin. Electrochemical therapy appears to have beneficial effects by causing a highly localised reduction in collagen content or local softening of tissue, which is consistent with other studies on scar therapies, including chemexfoliation, radiofrequency technologies, and lasers. However, electrochemical therapy can be performed at a fraction of the costs of these aforementioned modalities.
A Study of Factors Affecting the Length of Hospital Stay of COVID-19 Patients by Cox-Proportional Hazard Model in a South Indian Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Thiruvengadam Gayathri , Lakshmi Marappa , Ramanujam Ravanan 
Published: March 2021

Background: The objective of the study was to identify the factors that alter the length of hospital stay of COVID-19 patients so we have an estimate of the duration of hospitalization of patients. To achieve this, we used a time to event analysis to arrive at factors that could alter the length of hospital stay, aiding in planning additional beds for any future rise in cases. Methods: Information about COVID-19 patients was collected between June and August 2020. The response variable was the time from admission to discharge of patients. Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify the factors that were associated with the length of hospital stay. Results: A total of 730 COVID-19 patients were included, of which 675 (92.5%) recovered and 55 (7.5%) were considered to be right-censored, that is, the patient died or was discharged against medical advice. The median length of hospital stay of COVID-19 patients who were hospitalized was found to be 7 days by the Kaplan Meier curve. The covariates that prolonged the length of hospital stay were found to be abnormalities in oxygen saturation (HR = 0.446, P < .001), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (HR = 0.742, P = .003), levels of D-dimer (HR = 0.60, P = .002), lactate dehydrogenase (HR = 0.717, P = .002), and ferritin (HR = 0.763, P = .037). Also, patients who had more than 2 chronic diseases had a significantly longer length of stay (HR = 0.586, P = .008) compared to those with no comorbidities. Conclusion: Factors that are associated with prolonged length of hospital stay of patients need to be considered in planning bed strength on a contingency basis.
Awareness and Attitudes of Art Students and Lecturers on Health Hazards Associated With Fine and Applied Arts Making in Nigeria
Authors: Ibenegbu Christopher Ifeanyi , Ubah RitaDoris , Ibenegbu Queendaline Obiajulu 
Published: March 2021

Background Art-making can pose significant risks to the health and safety of artists. Some art materials and equipment are hazardous. Objective This article highlights the various hazards caused by the use of these materials in art-making and actions that could be taken to prevent it. Methods We used documentary research approaches to find out and study the relevant literature sources and to analyze and synthesize the information got. Result The results showed that art students and lecturers are not aware of the health hazards of art materials they use in their art practice, and they have a nonchalant attitude towards taking appropriate health precautions in the use of these art materials. We also observed that changing the attitudes of university art students, and lecturers on the health hazards involved in art-making would require several actions. Conclusion The awareness of health hazards associated with art-making/studio practice is useful to help art students and lecturers to increase their health precautions in using art materials.