bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Individualized PEEP titration guided by intratidal compliance profile analysis improves regional ventilation – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Weber Jonas , Gutjahr Jan , Schmidt Johannes , Lozano-Zahonero Sara , Borgmann Silke , Schumann Stefan , Wirth Steffen 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background

Application of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) improves lung aeration and reduces mechanical stress during mechanical ventilation. Although numerous approaches for PEEP titration have been proposed, there is no accepted strategy to titrate optimal PEEP. By analyzing the intratidal compliance profiles, PEEP may be titrated patient-individually.

Methods

After obtaining informed consent, we measured respiratory system mechanics and regional ventilation in 60 consecutive patients undergoing elective surgery, randomly allocated to the control group (PEEP = 5 cmH 2 O) or the intervention group receiving individually titrated PEEP, guided by intratidal compliance profile analysis. Primary endpoint was the nonlinear intratidal compliance. We further investigated respiratory and hemodynamic variables, regional ventilation and compliance profiles.

Results

Compliance was comparable between control [63.2 (14.0) mL·cmH 2 O -1 ] and intervention group [67.8 (15.9) mL·cmH 2 O -1 , p = 0.271]. Besides PEEP [control: 5.0 (0.0), intervention: 5.8 (1.1) cmH 2 O] respiratory and hemodynamic variables were comparable between the two groups. The compliance profile analysis showed no significant differences between the two groups. Relative thoracic electrical impedance was better maintained in the intervention group (89.3 (19.4) %) than in the control group (78.3 (23.6) %, p < 0.001). No significant differences in dorsal to ventral ventilation distribution was found between the two groups.

Conclusions

Individualized PEEP titration according to bedside compliance profile analysis improves regional ventilation without affecting respiratory and hemodynamic variables negatively and may be a promising approach to patient-individual ventilation setting.
Early prediction of pathologic response to neoadjuvant treatment of breast cancer: use of a cell-loss metric based on serum thymidine kinase 1 and tumour volume
Authors: Tribukait Bernhard , Bergh Jonas , Hatschek Thomas 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background After neoadjuvant chemotherapy of breast cancer pathologic complete response (pCR) indicates a favourable prognosis. Among non-selected patients, pCR is, however, achieved in only 10-30%. Early evaluation of tumour response to treatment would facilitate individualized therapy, with ineffective chemotherapy interrupted or changed. The methodology for this purpose is still limited. Tumour imaging and analysis of macromolecules, released from disrupted tumour cells are principle alternatives.Objective To investigate whether a metric of cell-loss, defined as the ratio between serum concentration of thymidine kinase1 (sTK1) (ng x ml -1 ) and tumour volume (cm 3 ), can be used in the early prediction of pathologic response.Methods 104 women with localized breast cancer received neoadjuvant epirubicin/docetaxel in 6 cycles, supplemented with bevacizumab in cycles 3-6. The cell-loss metric was established at baseline (n=104), prior to cycle 2 (n=57) and 48h after cycle 2 (n=104). The performance of the metric was evaluated by association with pathologic tumour response at surgery ̴ 16 weeks later.Results Means for the three points of the metric were 0.007, 0.084 and 0.107 units. For each individual, the baseline value was subtracted from the 48-h value and patients were grouped into quartiles. Means of these were: 0.002, 0.011, 0.030 and 0.357 units. The cell-loss metric was associated with the pCR in the quartiles: 11%, 11%, 23% and 46% (p=0.01). In the 80 patients with remaining tumour, pathologic tumour size was inversely related to the metric (p=0.002). In the subgroup of 57 patients, data obtained prior to the 2nd cycle indicated a higher predictive value than the data obtained 48h after this treatment.Conclusion A cell-loss metric, established by combining serum levels of TK1, released from disrupted tumour cells, and tumour volume, reveal tumour response early during neoadjuvant treatment. The metric appears to reflect a tumour property that differ greatly between patients and determines the sensitivity to cytotoxic treatment. The findings point to the significance of cell loss for the growth rate of tumours. The metric should be considered in personalized oncology and in the evaluation of new therapeutic modalities.
An online knowledge translation intervention increases knowledge of cancer risk factors, but has limited impact on self-reported health behaviours: findings from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Neil-Sztramko Sarah , Belita Emily , Levinson Anthony , Boyko Jennifer , Dobbins Maureen 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background Many cancers are preventable through lifestyle modification; however, few adults engage in behaviors that are in line with cancer prevention guidelines. This may be partly due to the mixed messages on effective cancer prevention strategies in popular media. The goal of the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (the Portal) is to increase access to trustworthy health information. The purpose of this study was to explore if and how knowledge translation strategies to disseminate cancer prevention evidence using the Portal influence participants’ knowledge, intentions and health behaviors related to cancer risk.Methods Adults ≥40 years old, with no cancer history were randomized to a 12-week intervention (weekly emails and social media posts) or control group. Quantitative data on knowledge, intentions and behaviors (physical activity, diet, alcohol consumption and use of tobacco products) were collected at baseline, end of study and three months later. Participant engagement was assessed using Google Analytics, and participant satisfaction through open-ended survey questions and semi-structured interviews.Results Participants (n = 557, mean age 64.9) were predominantly retired (72%) females (81%). Knowledge of cancer prevention guidelines was higher in the intervention group at end of study only. Intentions to follow cancer prevention guidelines increased in both groups, with no between-group differences. Intervention participants reported greater light-intensity physical activity at end of study, and reduced alcohol intake at follow up, but no other between-group differences were found. Overall satisfaction with the Portal and intervention materials was high.Conclusions Dissemination of evidence-based cancer prevention information through the Portal improves knowledge of risk-reduction strategies and may impact self-reported health behaviours in particular groups. Further tailoring of knowledge translation strategies may be needed to see more meaningful change in knowledge and health behaviours.
Acceptance and tolerability of 75 g Pregnancy Oral Glucose Tolerance Test in Pregnancy
Authors: Chaubey Santosh Kumar , Falhammar Henrik 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing in prevalence but there are various debatable issues around the diagnostic methods and criteria. Universal screening and 2-hour 75 g pregnancy oral glucose tolerance test (POGTT) is now widely accepted in Australia barring a few places.A questionnaire based study was planned to determine the acceptance and tolerability of 75 g POGTT in pregnant females and compare with 50 g glucose challenge test (GCT).Methods: A questionnaire based prospective study was conducted of the pregnant females attending the combined endocrine and obstetrics antenatal clinic at Gosford Hospital, NSW. The questionnaire tried to analyse the issues encountered by patients with regard to requirement of fasting, duration of the test as well as gastrointestinal and other side effects experienced during the test. Moreover, the respondents were also asked to rate their experience with 75 g POGTT vs. 50 g GCT if they had this in previous or current pregnancy. The attitude of the respondents towards various side effects was explored as well.Results: The completed questionnaire was received from 98 pregnant females attending the clinic. The most inconvenient factors during the POGTT were the taste of Glucogel (54%, 53/98) and duration of the test (45%, 44/98) , followed nausea (42%, 41/98) and requirement for fasting (18 %, 18/98). Almost half (46%, 45/98) had had a 50 g GCT previously. Of those, more had no issues with 50 g GCT compared to 75 g POGTT (76% vs. 47%, P=0.006) and there was a tendency of less issues of the duration of the test (20% vs. 40%, P=0.065).Conclusions: This study, reassuringly found that in spite its complexity and longer duration of test, 75 g POGTT was reasonably well accepted and tolerated.
Effects of resveratrol on cariogenic virulence properties of Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Li Jinheng , Wu Tiantian , Peng Weiwei , Zhu Yaqin 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background: Streptococcus mutans is the principal etiological agent of human dental caries. The major virulence factors of S. mutans are acid production, acid tolerance, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) synthesis and biofilm formation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of resveratrol, a natural compound, on virulence properties of S. mutans . Methods: The effect of resveratrol on acidogenicity was investigated by pH drop and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, on aciduricity through survival rate at pH 5.0 and F-ATPase assay, on EPS synthesis (including water-soluble polysaccharide and water-insoluble polysaccharide) by quantitative measurement, on biofilm formation by crystal violet assay and structure observation. The expression of related virulence genes was also detected . Results: Resveratrol at sub-MIC levels can significantly decrease acid production, acid tolerance, EPS synthesis and biofilm formation. Related virulence gene expression ( ldh , relA , gtfC , comDE ) was down-regulated with increasing concentrations of resveratrol. Conclusion: Resveratrol has an inhibitory effect on S. mutans cariogenic virulence properties and it represents a promising anticariogenic agent .
Neuroprotective effect of Estrogen Receptor α against neuroinflammation induced by hypoxia/ischemia via SIRT1-dependent AMPK pathway
Authors: Z Z , WQ He , XL Cao , B Tang , QY Fan , MH Zhao , YJ Chen 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background: Stroke-related damage in rats is protected against by estrogen which also has an anti-cerebral ischemia role mostly conducted via its association with estrogen receptor (ER) α .However,processes governing ER α-mediated neuroprotection are poorly comprehended. This study sought to establish whether ERα’s control of neuroinflammation caused by NLRP3 inflammasome activation emanating from SIRT1-AMPK signaling allowed ERα’s improvement of hypoxia/ischemic damage. Methods: The intraperitoneal administration of estrogen was performed to ovariectomized (bilaterally) (OVA) SD rats prior to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). The strong rise in NLRP3 inflammasome activation including caspase-1, ASC, IL-1β and IL-18 occurred following OVA and were specifically decreased following estrogen treatment. Moreover, the expression of Silent Information Regulator 1 (SIRT1) and ERα were reversed. The association between ERα-led inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome in conditions of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) and SIRT1-AMPK signaling were also examined. Results: Findings confirmed the prevention of NLRP3 inflammasome activation instigated by H 2 O 2 and the in vitro production of IL-1β, IL-18 together with the enhancement of this impact by SIRT1. Additionally, ERα's neuroprotective impact was prevented by inhibiting of AMPK. The synergistic impact of SIRT1 on ERα increased AMPK activation; however, SIRT1 knockout eliminated this. Conclusions: The findings indicate that inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome by ERα results in neuroprotection against hypoxia/ischemic injury and that ERα’s neuroprotection can be highly improved by the SIRT1-dependent AMPK pathway.
Evaluation of the effect of MTNR1B rs10830963 gene polymorphism on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in treating type 2 diabetes among Chinese Han patients
Authors: Song Jinfang , Zhang Mingzhu , Ni Jiang , Wang Tao , Zhao Yi-Qing 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background: Several studies have shown the association of polymorphisms in the MTNR1B gene with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, there is no evidence about the impacts of its genetic polymorphism on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide. Therefore, this prospective case-control study was designed to investigate the effect of MTNR1B rs10830963 gene polymorphism on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in treating T2DM. Methods: We genotyped 200 healthy subjects using the method of the high resolution of melting curve (HRM). A total of 60 T2DM patients were enrolled and given nateglinide (360 mg/d) for 8 weeks orally who had the same genotypes CYP2C9*1 and SLCO1B1 521TT respectively. The outcome was measured by collecting the venous blood samples before and at the 8th week of the treatment. Also, anthropometric measurements, glucose, and lipid metabolism were determined before and after the nateglinide treatment. Results: It was found that the risk G allelic frequency of MTNR1B rs10830963 was higher in T2DM patients when compared with the healthy subjects (P<0.05). 60 newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes after completing the eight weeks treatment came for the follow-up visit and showed a reduction in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels with an increase in homeostasis model assessment for β cell HOMA-β in the carriers of genotype CG + GG at rs10830963, when compared with the wild-type CC (P <0.05). Conclusion: Thus, it was found that the MTNR1B rs10830963 polymorphism was associated with the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in T2DM patients. Also, the CC homozygotes had a better effect than G allele carriers. Trial registration: This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Register (No. ChiCTR-CCC13003536).
Prevalence of and Characteristics Associated with In-Hospital Mortality in a Ugandan Neurology Ward
Authors: Diaz Monica Maria , Hu Xin , Fenton Brenda T , Kimuli Ivan , Lee Allison , Lindsey Hayley , Bigelow Jeffrey K , Maiser Samuel , Altalib Hamada H. , Sico Jason J 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background ― While the burden of neurologic illness in developing countries is increasing, less is known about mortality among patients admitted to sub-Saharan African hospitals with neurologic disease. We sought to characterize the rate and patient-level predictors of in-hospital mortality in a Ugandan Neurology ward.
Methods ― Data was prospectively collected on 335 patients admitted to the Neurology ward of Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and multivariate COX proportional hazard modeling were used to assess survival.
Results ―Within our sample (n=307), 35.8% received no diagnosis at time of hospital admission. Stroke (27.3%), head trauma (19.6%), and malaria (16.0%) were the most common diagnoses. Among the 56 (18.5%) patients who died during the index hospitalization, the most common diagnosis at admission and at death was stroke. Adjusted regression analysis showed that patients without a diagnosis at time of death (HR=7.01 [2.42-20.35], p<.001) and those with diagnoses of infections (HR=5.21 [2.16-12.58], p=<.001), stroke (HR=2.69 [1.20-6.04], p=.017), or head trauma (HR=3.39, [1.27-9.07], p=0.15) had worse survival.
Conclusions ― In-hospital mortality affected nearly 20% of the cohort, with worse survival among those without a diagnosis and with infections, stroke, head trauma. Future work should identify reasons for increased mortality among these high-risk groups and implement targeted interventions.
Influence of climatic factors on aggression and infectivity of Anopheles in the districts the Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) in Northern Benin, West Africa.
Authors: SOMINAHOUIN André , Padonou Germain Gil , Landéhou Rodrigue , Salako Albert Sourou , Sagbohan Hermann , Ahogni Idelphonse , Lokonon Sylvain , Osse Razaki , Assogba Bénoît , Agossa Fiacre , Dagnon Fortuné , Houssou Christophe , Akogbéto Martin C. 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background: Climate variability influence the diversity and abundance of malaria vectors and thereby on malaria transmission dynamics. Examine its effect on Anopheles parameters involved in transmission may predict the potential malaria hotspot as a right target for its control intervention strategies. Here, we investigated the influence of meteorological parameters on the aggressiveness and infectivity of Anopheles in two health districts zones where IRS has been extended in Northern Benin. Methods: Mosquito collections were carried out using human landing catches to evaluate rates of aggression and infectivity in twelve villages. Concomitantly, meteorological data from synoptic stations of Benin and neighbouring countries were collected in 2016-2017. Results: The spatial distribution of infective bites of An. gambiae is characterized by an intense aggression in the rural villages of the study area. Analysis of variances showed significant HBR difference according to the period but not according to the locality. However, the same analysis carried out with the infectivity rate shows no significant difference according to the period and the locality. In addition, the number of infective bites per man per month is higher in August and October, and the climatic parameters that have mainly favoured aggression are wind speed, humidity, sunshine and temperature. Indeed, the peak of wind speed is concentrated around 1.2 km / h and in September (5 km / h) whereas the aggressiveness score of Anopheles in the region is greater than 10 infective bites per man a year. Conclusion Malaria transmission by Anopheles is influenced by climatic factors. The climate observed in the districts where IRS was extended in northern Benin has a real impact on Anopheles density and weakens current and future vector control strategies. This could lead to a series of modifications observed in anopheline populations just after IRS implementation ranging from a tendency to exophagy, from a decrease in the rate of blood-feeding to changes in the time, and change in aggressiveness. These phenomena most likely contribute to the sustainability of malaria transmission despite vector control measures. Keywords: Infectivity, aggression, Climate, Anopheles gambiae ( s.l. ), IRS, Benin.
Comparative Efficacy of Glucocorticoid Receptor Agonists on Th2 Cell Function and Attenuation by Progesterone
Authors: Luchak Alexander , Solomon Lauren A , Kanagalingam Tharsan , Rowe Brian H , Cameron Lisa 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background: Corticosteroids (CS) suppress cytokine production and induce apoptosis of inflammatory cells. Prednisone and dexamethasone are oral CS prescribed for treating asthma exacerbations. While prednisone is more commonly prescribed, dexamethasone is long acting and a more potent glucocorticoid receptor (GR) agonist. It can be administered as a one or two dose regime, unlike the five to seven days required for prednisone, a feature that increases compliance. We compared the relative ability of these two oral CS to suppress type 2 inflammation. Since progesterone has affinity for the GR and women are more likely to relapse following an asthma exacerbation, we assessed its influence on CS action. Results: Dexamethasone suppressed the level of IL-5 and IL-13 mRNA within Th2 cells with 10-fold less than prednisolone (the active form of prednisone). Dexamethasone induced a higher proportion of apoptotic and dying cells than prednisolone, at all concentrations examined. Addition of progesterone reduced their capacity to drive cell death, though dexamethasone maintained significantly more killing activity. Progesterone blunted dexamethasone-induction of FKBP5 mRNA, indicating the mechanism of action was by interference of the GC:GR complex. Conclusions: Dexamethasone is both more potent and effective than prednisolone in suppressing type 2 cytokine levels and mediating apoptosis. Progesterone attenuated these anti-inflammatory effects, indicating its potential influence on corticosteroid responses in vivo . Collectively, our data suggest that when oral corticosteroid is required, dexamethasone may be better able to control type 2 inflammation, eliminate Th2 cells and ultimately lead to improved long-term outcomes. Further research in asthmatics is needed
Comparative transcriptomics reveal conserved impacts of rearing density on immune response of two important aquaculture species
Authors: Ellison Amy , Webster Tamsyn Uren , Rodriguez-Barreto Deiene , de Leaniz Carlos Garcia , Consuegra Sonia , Orozco-terWengel Pablo , Cable Jo 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Background: Infectious diseases represent an important barrier to sustainable aquaculture development. Rearing density can substantially impact fish productivity, health and welfare in aquaculture, including growth rates, behaviour and, crucially, immune activity. Given the current emphasis on aquaculture diversification, stress-related indicators broadly applicable across species are needed. Results: Utilising an interspecific comparative transcriptomic (RNAseq) approach, we compared gill gene expression responses of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) to rearing density and Saprolegnia parasitica infection. Salmon reared at high-density showed increased expression of stress-related markers (e.g. c-fos and hsp70), and downregulation of innate immune genes. Upon pathogen challenge, only salmon reared at low density exhibited increased expression of inflammatory interleukins and lymphocyte-related genes. Tilapia immunity, in contrast, was impaired at low-density. Using overlapping gene ontology enrichment and gene ortholog analyses, we found that density-related stress similarly impacted salmon and tilapia in key immune pathways, altering the expression of genes vital to inflammatory and Th17 responses to pathogen challenge. Conclusions: Given the challenges posed by ectoparasites and gill diseases in fish farms, this study underscores the importance of optimal rearing densities for immunocompetence, particularly for mucosal immunity. Our comparative transcriptomics analyses identified density stress impacted immune markers common across different fish taxa, providing key molecular targets with potential for monitoring and enhancing aquaculture resilience in a wide range of farmed species.