bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between individual perceptions of PM2.5 pollution and pulmonary function in Chinese middle-aged and elderly residents
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhang Jiayao , Xu Yan , Sun Hong , Ding Zhen
Published: April 2020

Background: PM2.5 pollution has become a major public health concern in urban China. Understanding the residents’ individual perceptions toward haze pollution is critical for policymaking and risk communication. However, the perceptions of middle-aged and elderly residents, who particularly vulnerable to haze pollution, are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore their risk perceptions of haze pollution and investigate its relationship with health status and pulmonary function parameters. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 400 randomly sampled individuals (aged 40 to 90 years) was conducted in Wuxi, a typical PM2.5-polluted city in Jiangsu Province, China (during 2015-2017, daily average concentration of PM2.5 was 52.7 μg/m3). Each participant’s demographic and health information, individual perception and pulmonary function outcomes were collected to explore the relationships between perception factors and personal characteristics and pulmonary function parameters, using linear models. Results: We found that the mean values for controllability (5 ± 2.8) and dread of risk to oneself (levels of fear for haze-related harm to oneself) (6.9 ± 2.5) were the lowest and the highest values, respectively, in our study. Education and average family income were positively related with all individual perception factors, while age was negatively associated. A history of respiratory disease was positively associated with all individual perception factors except controllability. Significant positive associations were observed between PEF (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.22) and FEF75% (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.29) with a variety of individual perception factors. Conclusions: There were a lack of concern and knowledge, weak self-protection consciousness and a strong dread of PM2.5 pollution among the middle-aged and elderly residents in Wuxi. Their individual perceptions were associated with age, education levels, average family income, history of respiratory disease, PEF and FEF75%. Our findings may help policymakers develop effective policies and communication strategies to mitigate the hazards of haze among older residents.
Loss of FANCD2 and related proteins may predict malignant transformation in oral epithelial dysplasia
Authors: Ho Michael W , Ryan Mark , Gupta Juhi , Triantafyllou Asterios , Risk Janet , Shaw Richard , Wilson James
Published: April 2020

Background: Predicting malignant transformation in oral epithelial dysplasia(OED) is a clinical challenge. The higher rate of malignant transformation in non-smokers supports an endogenous aetiology. Loss of FANCD2 and associated proteins could lead to genomic instability and oncogenesis.
Methods: Longitudinal archival samples from 40 individuals with OED from time of diagnosis to the most recent review in 23 stable OED; or until excision of the SCC in 17 unstable OED undergoing malignant transformation. Histopathological reassessment, immunohistochemistry for FANCD2 and Western blotting for phosphorylation/monubiquitination status of ATR, CHK1, FANCD2 and FANCG were undertaken on each tissue sample.
Results: Decreased expression of FANCD2 was observed in the diagnostic biopsy of OED lesions which later underwent malignant transformation. Combining the FANCD2 expression scores with histological grading more accurately predicted malignant transformation (p=0.005) than histology alone and correctly predicted malignant transformation in 10/17 initial biopsies. Significantly reduced expression of total FANCD2, pFANCD2, pATR, pCHK-1 and pFANCG were observed in unstable OED.
Discussion: There is good evidence that defects in the DNA damage sensing-signalling-repair cascade are associated with malignant transformation in OED. Loss of post-translational modification in FANCD2 and related proteins, was more predictive of malignant transformation when compared to clinicopathological parameters.
No evidence for amyloid pathology as a key mediator of neurodegeneration post-stroke - a seven year follow-up study
Authors: Hagberg Guri , Ihle-Hansen Hege , Fure Brynjar , Thommessen Bente , Ihle-Hansen Håkon , Øksengård Anne Rita , Beyer Mona K. , Wyller  , Müller Ebba Gløersen , Pendlebury Sarah T. , Selnes Per
Published: April 2020

Background: Cognitive impairment (CI) with mixed vascular and neurodegenerative pathologies after stroke is common. The role of amyloid pathology in post-stroke CI is unclear. We hypothesize that amyloid deposition, measured with Flutemetamol (18F-Flut) positron emission tomography (PET), is common in 7-year stroke survivors diagnosed with CI and, further, that quantitatively assessed 18F-Flut-PET uptake after seven years correlates with amyloid-β peptide (Aβ₄₂) levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at one year, and with measures of neurodegeneration and cognition at seven years post-stroke. Methods: 208 patients with first-ever stroke or transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) without pre-existing CI were included during 2007 and 2008. At one- and seven-years post-stroke, cognitive status was assessed, and categorized into dementia, mild cognitive impairment or normal. Etiologic sub-classification was based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, CSF biomarkers and clinical cognitive profile. At seven years, patients were offered 18F-Flut-PET, and amyloid-positivity was assessed visually and semi-quantitatively. The associations between 18F-Flut-PET standardized uptake value ratios (SUVr) and measures of neurodegeneration (medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTLA), global cortical atrophy (GCA)) and cognition (Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), Trail-making test A (TMT-A)) and CSF Aβ₄₂ levels were assessed using linear regression. Results: In total, 111 patients completed 7-year follow-up, and 26 patients agreed to PET imaging, of whom 13 had CSF biomarkers from one year. Thirteen out of 26 patients were diagnosed with CI seven years post-stroke, but only one had visually assessed amyloid positivity. CSF Aβ₄₂ levels at one year, MTA grade, GCA scale, MMSE score or TMT-A at seven years did not correlate with 18F-Flut-PET SUVr in this cohort.Conclusions: Amyloid binding was not common in 7-year stroke survivors diagnosed with CI. Quantitatively assessed, cortical amyloid deposition did not correlate with other measures related to neurodegeneration or cognition. Therefore amyloid pathology may not be a key mediator of neurodegeneration seven years post-stroke.Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00506818)
Low doses of Bisphenol S affect post-translational modifications of sperm proteins in male mice
Authors: Řimnáčová Hedvika , Štiavnická Miriam , Moravec Jiří , Chemek Marouane , Kolinko Yaroslav , García-Álvarez Olga , Mouton Peter R. , Trejo Azalia Mariel Carranza , Fenclová Tereza , Eretová Nikola , Hošek Petr , Klein Pavel , Králíčková Milena , Petr Jaroslav , Nevoral Jan
Published: April 2020

Background

Bisphenol S (BPS) is increasingly used as a replacement for bisphenol A in the manufacture of products containing polycarbonates and epoxy resins. However, further studies of BPS exposure are needed for the assessment of health risks to humans. In this study we assessed the potential harmfulness of low-dose BPS on reproduction in male mice.

Methods

To simulate human exposure under experimental conditions, 8-week-old outbred ICR male mice received 8 weeks of drinking water containing a broad range of BPS doses [0.001, 1.0, or 100 µg/kg body weight (bw)/day, BPS1-3] or vehicle control. Mice were sacrificed and testicular tissue taken for histological analysis and protein identification by nano-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (MS) and sperm collected for immunodetection of acetylated lysine and phosphorylated tyrosine followed by protein characterisation using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight MS (MALDI-TOF MS).

Results

The results indicate that compared to vehicle, 100 µg/kg/day exposure (BPS3) leads to 1) significant histopathology in testicular tissue; and, 2) higher levels of the histone protein γH2AX, a reliable marker of DNA damage. There were fewer mature spermatozoa in the germ layer in the experimental group treated with 1 µg/kg bw (BPS2). Finally, Western blot and MALDI-TOF MS studies showed significant alterations in the sperm acetylome and phosphorylome in mice treated with the lowest (BPS1) exposure (0.001 µg/kg/day).

Conclusions

In summary, this range of qualitative and quantitative findings in young male mice raise the possibility that relatively low doses of BPS may impair mammalian reproduction through epigenetic modifications of sperm proteins.
Parenting stress and competence in borderline personality disorder is associated with mental health, trauma history, attachment and reflective capacity.
Authors: Steele Kayla R , Townsend Michelle L , Grenyer Brin F.S.
Published: April 2020

Background: Individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) may experience additional challenges in their parenting role, including increased stress and lower self-efficacy and satisfaction. These difficulties have been shown to impact their children, and may be implicated in the potential intergenerational transmission of personality vulnerabilities. Methods: Parental stress and competence variables were examined in a cross-sectional study of 284 parents (94.72% female, M=37.37, SD=8.04 years), of which 69 (24.30%) met caseness for BPD criteria. We completed a multivariate analysis of variance to test how parents with ‘high BPD features’ (meeting caseness for BPD) compared to those with ‘low BPD features’ on a range of parenting and mental health variables. Multivariate linear regression modelling was then utilised to explore whether these parenting variables were associated with personality and psychological wellbeing, recalled trauma history, orientation to attachment relationships and reflective capacity. Results: Individuals high in BPD features experienced more stress and lower competence in their parenting role than those low in BPD features. These parents also reported more personality vulnerabilities, poorer psychological wellbeing, recalled more traumatic experiences in their childhood, were more likely to endorse insecure attachment styles and had poorer reflective capacity. In the regression model, parenting stress and competence was associated with personality traits, general psychological wellbeing, recalled trauma history, attachment style and reflective capacity variables. Parental reflective capacity had the strongest association with parenting stress, satisfaction, efficacy, the perception of having a difficult child and a difficult parent-child relationship, and psychological wellbeing had the greatest association with parenting distress. Conclusions: Parents who were able to imaginatively enter the subjective world of the child and hold the child’s mind in mind with less certainty, reported reduced parenting stress and greater parenting satisfaction and efficacy. Helping to improve personality and mental health functioning, increasing parental reflective capacity and strengthening parent-child attachment relationships, may reduce parenting stress and increase parenting competence in individuals with BPD.
Migrants’ and refugees’ health status and healthcare in Europe: A scoping literature review
Authors: Lebano Adele , Hamed Sarah , Bradby Hannah , Gil-Salmerón Alejandro , Durá-Ferrandis Estella , Garcés-Ferrer Jorge , Azzedine Fabienne , Riza Elena , Karnaki Pania , Zota Dina , Linos Athena
Published: April 2020

Background There is increasing attention paid to the arrival of migrants from outwith the EU region to the European countries. Healthcare that is universally and equably accessible needs to be provided for these migrants throughout the range of national contexts and in response to complex and evolving individual needs. It is important to look at the evidence available on provision and access to healthcare for migrants to identify barriers to accessing healthcare and better plan necessary changes. Methods This review scoped seventy seven papers from nine European countries (Austria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, Spain, and Sweden) in English and in country-specific languages in order to provide an overview of migrants’ access to healthcare. The review aims at identifying what is known about access to healthcare and healthcare use of migrants and refugees in the EU member states. The evidence included documents from 2011 onward. Results The literature reviewed confirms that despite the aspiration to ensure equality of access to healthcare, there is persistent inequalities between migrants and non-migrants in access to healthcare services. The evidence shows unmet healthcare needs, especially when it comes to mental and dental health as well as the existence of legal barriers in accessing healthcare. Language and communication barriers, overuse of emergency services and underuse of primary healthcare services as well as discrimination are described. Conclusions The European situation concerning migrants’ and refugees’ health status and access to healthcare is heterogenous and it is difficult to compare and draw any firm conclusions due to the scant evidence. Different diseases are prioritised by different countries, although these priorities do not always correspond to the expressed needs or priorities of the migrants. Mental healthcare, preventive care (immunization) and long term care in the presence of a growing migrant older population are identified as priorities that deserve greater attention. There is a need to improve the existing data on migrants’ health status, needs and access to healthcare to be able to tailor care to the needs of migrants. To conduct research that highlights migrants’ own views on their health and barriers to access to healthcare is key.
Juvenile Xanthogranuloma as a New Type of Skin Lesions in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Lu Qian , Shi Xiu-Yu , Wang Yang-Yang , Zhang Meng-Na , Wang Wen-Ze , Wang Jing , Wang Qiu-Hong , Chen Hui-Min , Zou Li-Ping
Published: April 2020

Objective: Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disease with many manifestations, and it involves any organ. In this study, we report a TSC patient with new type skin lesions.Methods: A 7-month-old TSC boy with multiple cutaneous nodules was admitted in our hospital. We collected the clinical data of the patient. We performed biopsy of cutaneous nodules and whole-exome sequencing in both paraffin block tissue and blood samples.Results: The patient presented with a 2 month history of gradual growth multiple cutaneous nodules. He had cardiac rhabdomyoma, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) and hypomelanotic macules. The pathological finding of cutaneous nodules was consistent with juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG). After 3 months of sirolimus treatment, the multiple nodules disappeared. The whole-exome sequencing identified TSC1 (c.2356C>T, p.R786*) mutation in both paraffin block tissue and blood samples. We overturned the original pathological diagnosis and finally identified JXG as a new type of skin lesions in TSC.Conclusion: This is the first report on the occurrence of JXG skin lesions in TSC patient. Genetic testing is necessary in JXG. These findings expand the phenotype of skin in patients with TSC and contribute to the elucidation of JXG pathogenesis and treatment.
Sustained Response To Onabotulinumtoxin A In Patients With Chronic Migraine: Real-Life Data
Authors: Ornello Raffaele , Guerzoni Simona , Baraldi Carlo , Evangelista Luana , Frattale Ilaria , Marini Carmine , Tiseo Cindy , Pistoia Francesca , Sacco Simona
Published: April 2020

Background. Treatment with onabotulinumtoxin A (BT-A) is safe and effective for chronic migraine (CM). Several studies assessed possible predictors of response to treatment with BT-A, but there is little knowledge on the frequency and predictors of sustained response. The aim of this study was to evaluate sustained response to BT-A in patients with CM.Main body. In this prospective open-label study, 115 patients with CM and treated with BT-A were consecutively enrolled in two Italian headache centers and followed up for 15 months. Anytime responders were defined as those patients who achieved a ≥50% reduction in headache days during any three-month treatment cycle compared with the three months prior to initiation of BT-A treatment. Sustained responders were defined as those who achieved a ≥50% reduction in headache days within the third treatment cycle and maintained response until the end of follow-up. Non-responders were defined as those patients who never achieved a ≥50% reduction in headache days during the follow-up. Headache characteristics prior to BT-A treatment were assessed in order to evaluate their ability in predicting treatment response.The 115 enrolled patients (84.3% female; median age 50 years) had a median migraine duration of 30 years (interquartile range 22-38). At the end of follow-up, 66 patients (57.4%) were classified as anytime responders. Among the 51 patients who achieved a clinical response within the third month of treatment, 33 (64.7%) were sustained responders. Patients with sustained response had a lower CM duration (median 31 vs 65 months; P=0.030) and a lower number of headache days (median 25 vs 30; P=0.013) at baseline compared with non-responders.Conclusions. About two thirds of patients who gain ≥50% response to BT-A within the third cycle of treatment maintain this positive response over time. More recent onset of CM and more headache-free days at baseline are associated with sustained response. We suggest not to delay preventive treatment of CM with BT-A, in order to increase the likelihood to achieve sustained clinical response.
Preliminary study of the mechanism underlying how Jianshen Granules ameliorate renal failure in 5/6 nephrectomy model rats
Authors: Wu Yan , Zhang Xianxie , Kong Jian , Qiu Haiying , Lu Hongjie , Du Lina , Yuan Hailong
Published: April 2020

Background

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a worldwide public health concern, and at present, there are limited treatment options available. Jianshen Granules, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, have been used clinically in the treatment of renal diseases for a large number of years in the Air Force Medical Center of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), and have shown great efficacy. In the present study, both the effectiveness and the mechanism of action of Jianshen Granules to treat CRF were investigated.
Methods

A rat model of CRF was established by 5/6 nephrectomy. Rats were administered distilled water, Uremic Clearance Granules (UCGs), or Jianshen Granules. During the administration period, the physiological state of the rats was observed, and the biochemical parameters of interest were measured. The pathology of the kidney tissues were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin, and Masson’s staining. In addition, the expression level of transforming growth factorβ1 (TGFβ1) was detected. Human kidney cells (HKC cells) were used to investigate the effects of Jianshen Granules on apoptosis induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), whereas cell viability was assessed by Cell Counting Kit8 (CCK8) assay. The level of apoptosis, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca2 + levels were measured using flow cytometry.
Results

The results revealed that Jianshen Granules could reduce the levels of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, and the volume of urine in CRF rats. Renal histopathological examinations revealed that Jianshen Granules had an ameliorative effect on renal injury. In addition, Jianshen Granules led to a marked decrease in TGFβ1 levels in CRF rats. Following treatment with Jianshen Granules, cell viability and the level of the MMP increased, whereas the levels of ROS and Ca2+ were reduced significantly. The increased level of TGFβ1 was detected in the H2O2treated group, although this increase was attenuated by treatment with Jianshen Granules.
Conclusion

Taken together, the results of the present study have shown that Jianshen Granules are able to ameliorate renal failure in CRF rats, and to inhibit apoptosis of HKC cells induced by H2O2 via downregulation of TGFβ1.
External Validation of the Detection of Indicators and Vulnerabilities for Emergency Room Trips (DIVERT) Scale: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mowbray Fabrice Immanuel , Jones Aaron , Schumacher Connie , Hirdes John , Costa Andrew Paul
Published: April 2020

Background: The Detection of Indicators and Vulnerabilities of Emergency Room Trips (DIVERT) scale was developed to classify and estimate the risk of emergency department (ED) use in home care clients. The objective of this study was to externally validate the DIVERT scale in a secondary population of home care clients.Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study, linking data from the Home Care Reporting System and the National Ambulatory Care Reporting System. Data were collected on older long-stay home care clients who received a RAI Home Care (RAI-HC) assessment. Data were collected for home care clients in the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Alberta, as well as in the cities of Winnipeg, Manitoba and Whitehorse, Yukon Territories, between April 1, 2011 and September 30, 2014. The DIVERT Scale was originally derived from the items of the RAI-HC through the use of recursive partitioning informed by a multinational clinical panel. This scale is currently implemented alongside the RAI-HC in provinces across Canada. The primary outcome of this study was an ED visit within six months of a RAI-HC assessment.Results: The cohort contained 1,001,133 home care clients. The vast majority of cases received services in Ontario (88%), followed by Alberta (8%), Winnipeg (4%), and Whitehorse (<1%). Across the four cohorts, the DIVERT scale demonstrated similar discriminative ability to the original validation work for all outcomes during the six-month follow-up: ED visitation (AUC =0.617-0.647), two or more ED visits (AUC = 0.628-0.634), and hospital admission (AUC = 0.617-0.664).Conclusions: The findings of this study support the external validity of the DIVERT scale. More specifically, the predictive accuracy of the DIVERT scale from the original work was similar to the accuracy demonstrated within a new cohort, created from different geographical regions and time periods.
Platelet Aggregation on Optical Coherence Tomography after Rotational Atherectomy of Severely Coronary Calcified Lesions
Authors: CAO Cheng-fu , MA Yu-liang , LI Qi , LIU Jian , ZHAO Hong , LU Ming-yu , wang weimin
Published: April 2020

Background

Rotational atherectomy (RA) has improved percutaneous treatment of severe coronary calcified lesions, but the "no-reflow" phenomenon remains a serious complication. Platelet activation by RA may contribute to the no-reflow, we use OCT to test the effect of RA on platelet aggregation.
Methods

We analyzed 20 consecutive patients with severe coronary calcified lesions by OCT imaging performed before and after RA and after stent implantation.
Results

Mean burr size was 1.48 ± 0.14. Mean rotation speed was 152,300 ± 4,200 rpm. Mean number of rotations per patient was 5.3 ± 2.1 times and mean ablation time per RA was 11.3 ± 3.2 seconds. All the target vessels had platelet aggregation on OCT after RA. The average number of white thrombus per lesion after RA was 7.23 ± 4.4, and the average length of every white thrombus was 0.51 ± 0.33 mm. In Pearson Correlation Analysis, platelet aggregation load was related with burr size (r = 0.575, P = 0.040) and rotation number (r = 0.599, P = 0.031).
Conclusions

Platelet aggregation during RA is proved by OCT in vivo. The bigger burr size, higher number of ablation times, maybe together with higher rotation speed can influence the platelet aggregation load. These data suggest a proper RA strategy to avoid no-reflow during RA.
Gingipain R1 and lipopolysaccharide from Porphyromonas gingivalis have major effects on blood clot morphology and mechanics
Authors: Nunes J Massimo , Fillis Tristan , PAge Martin J , Venter Chantelle , Lancry Ophelie , Kell Douglas B , Windberger Ursula , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: April 2020

Background: Porphyromonas gingivalis and its inflammagens is associated with a number of systemic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The proteases, gingipains have also recently been identified in brains of Alzheimer’s disease patients and in blood of Parkinson’s disease patients. Bacterial inflammagens, including lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and various proteases in circulation may drive systemic inflammation. Methods: Here, we investigate the effects of the bacterial products LPS from Escherichia coli and Porphyromonas gingivalis, and also the P. gingivalis gingipain (recombinant P. gingivalis gingipain R1 (RgpA)), on clot architecture and clot formation in whole blood and plasma from healthy individuals, as well as in purified fibrinogen models. Structural analysis of clots was performed using confocal, scanning electron microscopy and AFM-Raman. We use thromboelastography (TEG) and rheometry to compare the static and dynamic mechanical properties of clots. Results: We found that these inflammagens may interact with fibrin(ogen) and this interaction causes anomalous blood clotting. Conclusions: These techniques, in combination provide insight into the effects of these bacterial products on cardiovascular health, and particularly clot structure and mechanics.
Solar Panel Effect on Low-Speed Airfoil Aerodynamic Performance
Authors: El-Salamony Mostafa , Aziz Mohamed
Published: April 2020

Although the solar panel is thin, its thickness is considerable compared to the airfoil thickness. This paper aims to evaluate the impact of adding the solar panel over an airfoil of a UAV of type AG 34, which is low camber airfoil suitable for low-Reynolds number flights. Three configurations are examined to stand on the most suitable configuration. The analysis is based on the airfoil characteristics (lift, drag, and moment) and the pressure distribution over the airfoil surface. A parametric study is conducted to study the effect of the solar panel size and position on the aerodynamic performance.
Comparison of clinical usefulness of serum Ca125 and CA19-9 in pancreatic adenocarcinoma diagnosis: meta-analysis and systematic review of literature.
Authors: Skulimowski Aleksander , Durczyński Adam , Strzelczyk Janusz , Hogendorf Piotr
Published: April 2020

Background: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains one of the most lethal cancers. This is caused by its late manifestation and lack of extensively available, highly accurate diagnostic tools. The only recommended biomarker CA19-9 proves to be not accurate enough to establish a certain diagnosis. Therefore a standardization of usefulness of other biomarkers is essential. Consequently, our aim was to assess the specificity and sensitivity of Ca125 in comparison with CA19-9 by means of meta-analysis. The systematic review of combined tests (CA19-9+Ca125) was also carried out. Methods: We conducted a systematic search of Medline (via PubMed) and Ovid. After screening of abstracts and the assessment of full-texts, 9 studies (number of patients, n = 1599) were included in the meta-analysis. Hierarchical summary receiver under operator curve (hsROC) model was applied to estimate the diagnostic accuracy. Results: CA19-9 sensitivity and specificity were 0,748 (95%CI 0,676-0,809) and 0,782 (95%CI 0,716-0,836) respectively. These values were estimated on 0,593 (95%CI 0,489-0,69) and 0,754 (95%CI 0,817-0,668) for Ca125. Regarding the heterogeneity of studies we found a strong threshold effect for Ca125 and moderate one for CA19-9. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis did not prove the superiority of Ca125 in diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. It should be nevertheless noted that analysed studies are encumbered with high heterogeneity mainly due to threshold effect. Moreover the sparsity of studies precludes accurate analysis of various factors’ influence. Therefore further research into Ca125 is warranted to fully elucidate its usefulness. The review of proposed combined tests shows that although CA19-9+Ca125 models are characterized by higher sensitivity, their usefulness is hampered by inferior specificity to than that of CA19-9 alone.
Reliability and application of the new morphological classification system for chronic symptomatic osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture
Authors: Hao Ding-Jun , Yang Jun-Song , Tuo Yuan , Ge Chao-Yuan , He Bao-Rong , Liu Tuan-Jiang , Huang Da-Geng , Jia Shuai-jun , Liu Peng , Zhang Jia-Nan , Du Jin-Peng
Published: April 2020

ObjectiveThis study proposed a new classification system for Chronic Symptomatic Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Fracture (CSOTF) based on fracture morphology. Research on CSOTF has increased in recent years. However, the lack of a standard classification system has resulted in inconveniences regarding communication, research and treatment. Previous studies of CSOTF classification exhibit different defects, and none of these studies are widely accepted.MethodsWe collected 368 cases of CSOTF in our hospital from January 2010 to June 2017 and systematically analyzed the imaging data of all patients to develop a classification system. Imaging examinations included dynamic radiography, computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging. Ten investigators systematically studied and fully understood the classification system grading 40 cases on two occasions, examined 1 month apart. Kappa coefficients (κ) were calculated to determine intraobserver and interobserver reliability.ResultsThe new classification system for CSOTF was divided into types I-V according to whether the CSOTF exhibited dynamic instability, spinal stenosis or kyphosis deformity. Intra- and interobserver reliability were excellent for all types (κ = 0.83 and 0.85, respectively).ConclusionsThe new classification system for CSOTF demonstrated excellent reliability in this initial assessment. The system is convenient for communication and research, but wide clinical application are needed to confirm its effectiveness and guide clinical treatment.
The Pearl River Declaration: a timely call for enhancing health security through fostering a regional One Health collaboration in the Asia-Pacific
Authors: Alam Noore , Chu Cordia , Li Qianlin , Crook Allison , Whittaker Maxine , Aditama Tjandra , Schak Elena , Budiman Dicky , Barber Bonnie , Lu Jiahai
Published: April 2020

The Second International Symposium on One Health Research (ISOHR) was held in Guangzhou city, China on 23–24 November 2019. A transdisciplinary collaborative approach, One Health (OH), was the central theme of the symposium which brought together more than 260 experts, scholars and emerging researchers from human health, veterinary health, food safety, environmental health and related disciplines and sectors. More than 50 organizations including World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control (USA), and Queensland Government (Australia) participated in the symposium. Scholars, experts and emerging researchers, policy-makers and practitioners in their respective fields delivered over 50 presentations at the symposium, highlighting the collective vulnerability to some of the emerging health challenges the region was combating. These included emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, climate change, food safety and the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. The Pearl River Declaration, emanated from the symposium, called for establishing a One Health Cooperation Network in the Southeast Asia–Pacific region with a vision to strengthen regional health security through sharing each other’s knowledge and experience, and making investments in workforce development, scientific innovations such as vaccine research and development, sharing epidemic intelligence, risk identification, risk communication and appropriate response measures against emerging health threats.
Effects of adipose-derived stromal cells and endothelial progenitor cells on adipose transplant survival and angiogenesis
Authors: Zhao Xian , Gan Fengshan , Liu Liu , Zhou Qingzhu , Huang Wenli , Huang Xinwei
Published: April 2020

Background: A paracrine mechanism is thought to mediate the proangiogenic capacity of adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs). However, the precise mechanism by which ASCs promote the formation of blood vessels by endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) is unclear.Methods: We cocultured ASCs with EPCs at various concentrations to study the effects on angiogenesis. The supernatant from cultured ASCs was cocultured with EPCs to evaluate the effects on the expression of vascular endothelial markers in EPCs, as well as capacity for migration and invasion. We then mixed ASCs with EPCs and transplanted them with adipose tissue into New Zealand white rabbits to evaluate the effects on angiogenesis in adipose tissue grafts.Results: As the relative abundance of ASCs cocultured with EPCs increased, the rate of angiogenesis among EPCs decreased. The supernatant from ASC cultures increased the migration and invasion of EPCs and upregulated the expression of vascular endothelial markers in EPCs. In vivo, ASCs promoted the production of blood vessels by EPCs.Conclusions: ASCs are not recruited as structural components of blood vessels but do appear to regulate endothelial progenitor-mediated angiogenesis. The results obtained show that ASC paracrine signaling promotes the formation of blood vessels by EPCs. ASC paracrine signaling appears to promote angiogenesis by increasing the migration and invasion of EPCs and simultaneously upregulating the expression of vascular endothelial markers in EPCs. The results of in vivo experiments showed that ASCs promote the formation of blood vessels in EPC cultures.
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: April 2020

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 desired. 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 conditions.Methods: Single and double 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 in biomechanical testing, and the displacements and strains were calculated based on load-displacement and load-strain curves generated by the static compression tests.Results: Double-plate fixation significantly reduced stress concentration at the fracture site of the lateral plate by finite element analysis. Under full weight-bearing conditions, the maximum von Mises stress in the lateral plate was 268 MPa. On the other hand, 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 were0.63% and 0.058%, respectively. Consistently, in the axial loading test, the strain values at 1,500 N loading of the single- and double-plate fixation methods were 1,274.60 ± 11.53 and 317.33 ± 8.03 (X 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, providing full weight-bearing in the early postoperative period.
Persistence and Remission of Depressive Symptoms and Psycho-Social Correlates in Chinese Early Adolescents
Authors: Chi Xinli , Becker Benjamin , Yu Qian , Hossain M Mahhub , Lin Jingyaun , Yeung Albert , Seiler-Ramadas Radhika , Grabovac Igor , Bu He , Xie Fei , Zou Liye
Published: April 2020

Background: This study aimed to investigate a one-year course of persistent/remitted depressive symptoms and associated demographic and psychosocial factors that predict persistent/remitted depressive symptoms in Chinese high school students.Methods: 1,544 Grade 7 students provided data for the first wave. Of the initially recruited students, 483 who were classified as depressed (CESD score ≥ 16) at baseline were then tracked and invited to fill in the questionnaire for a second time (Grade 8) after one year. Finally, 435 of them were successfully matched.Results: 202 (46.4%) of the subset categorized as depressed in the first survey (N=435) remained with depressive symptoms, while 233 (53.6%) recovered from depression one year later. Having siblings, a lower level of positive youth development, non-intact family status, and poor family functioning at baseline significantly predicted a higher likelihood of persistent depression, while those with fathers having higher educational qualifications (bachelor’s degree or higher) at baseline showed a significantly higher probability of remitting from depression.Limitations: This study used the self-reporting approach without tracking the long-term developmental trajectories of adolescent depressive symptoms. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the prevalence of persistent depressive symptoms was generally high, and promoting aspects of positive youth development and family functioning for adolescents could be promising in preventing or reducing these symptoms.
The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in middle-aged and elderly people in Tibet Autonomous Region of China
Authors: Lin Jianhao , Zhang Qing Xi , Liu Qiang , Lin Chu Tong , Baima Yangjin , Li Hu , Gong Hong Qiang
Published: April 2020

Objective

There has been no epidemiological survey of it in Tibet. We estimated the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in Luoma Town, Naqu City, Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
Methods

A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1458 residents of Luoma Town, Tibet Autonomous Region, aged ≥ 40 years. We used questionnaires in face-to-face interviews, anthropometric measurements and rheumatoid factor (RF), autoantibodies binding to citrullinated antigens (ACPA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) test. The definition of rheumatoid arthritis in this study was on the basis of new 2010 ACR/EULAR classification criteria.
Results

782 participants completed all items of rheumatoid arthritis. The overall crude prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis was 4.86%. The prevalence was higher in women than in men (7.14% vs. 2.56%, P = 0.005). Tibetan had a higher age-standardized prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis 6.30% (95% confidence interval: 4.20% − 8.64%) compared with the other areas in China (range: 0.20% − 0.93%).
Conclusion

The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis is relatively higher than other places in China.
BCI training effects on chronic stroke correlate with functional reorganization in motor-related regions: A concurrent EEG and fMRI study
Authors: Tong Kai Yu , Yuan Kai , Chen Cheng , Wang Xin , Chu Winnie Chiu-wing
Published: April 2020

Background: Brain-computer interface (BCI) guided robot-assisted training strategy has been increasingly applied to stroke rehabilitation, while few studies have investigated the neuroplasticity change and functional reorganization after intervention from multi-modality neuroimaging perspective. The present study aims to investigate the hemodynamic and electrophysical changes induced by BCI training using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) respectively, as well as the relationship between the neurological changes and motor function improvement. Method: 14 chronic stroke subjects received 20 sessions of BCI-guided robot hand training. Simultaneous EEG and fMRI data were acquired before and immediately after the intervention. Seed-based functional connectivity for resting state fMRI data and effective connectivity analysis for EEG were processed to reveal the neuroplasticity changes and interaction between different brain regions. Moreover, the relationship among motor function improvement, hemodynamic changes and electrophysical changes derived from the two neuroimaging modalities were also investigated. Results: This work suggested: (a) significant motor function improvement could be obtained after BCI training therapy; (b) training effect significantly correlated with functional connectivity change between ipsilesional M1 (iM1) and contralesional Brodmann area 6 (including premotor area (cPMA) and supplementary motor area (SMA)) derived from fMRI; (c) training effect significantly correlated with information flow change from cPMA to iM1 and strongly correlated with information flow change from SMA to iM1 derived from EEG; (d) consistency of fMRI and EEG results illustrated by the correlation between functional connectivity change and information flow change. Conclusions: Our study showed changes in the brain after the BCI training therapy from chronic stroke survivors and provided a better understanding of neural mechanisms, especially the interaction among motor-related brain regions during stroke recovery. Besides, our finding demonstrated the feasibility and consistency of combining multiple neuroimaging modalities to investigate the neuroplasticity change. This study was registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02323061) on 23 December 2014.
Protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials examining the effectiveness of early parenting interventions in preventing internalising problems in children and adolescents.
Authors: Costantini Ilaria , Paul Elise , Caldwell Deborah M , López-López José A , Pearson Rebecca M
Published: April 2020

Background: Internalising problems, such as depression and anxiety, are common and represent an important economical and societal burden. The effectiveness of parenting interventions in reducing risk of internalising problems in children and adolescents has not yet been summarised. The aims of this review are to:1. assess the effectiveness of parenting interventions in the primary, secondary and tertiary prevention of internalising problems in children and adolescents;2. determine which intervention components and which intervention aspects are most effective for reducing risk of internalising problems in children and adolescents. Methods: Electronic searches in OVID SP versions of Medline, EMBASE and PsycINFO; Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; EBSCO version of ERIC and clinicaltrials.gov have been performed to identify randomised controlled trials or quasi-randomised controlled trials of parenting interventions. At least two independent researchers will assess studies for inclusion and extract data from each paper. The risk of bias assessment will be conducted independently by two reviewers using the Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. Statistical heterogeneity is anticipated given potential variation in participant characteristics, intervention type and mode of delivery, and outcome measures. Random effects models, assuming a common between-study variability, will be used to account for statistical heterogeneity. Results will be analysed using a network meta-analysis (NMA). If appropriate, we will also conduct a component-level NMA, where the ‘active ingredients’ of interventions are modelled using a network meta-regression approach.Discussion: Preventing and reducing internalising problems could have major beneficial effects at the economic and societal level. Informing policy makers on the effectiveness of parenting interventions and on which intervention’s component is driving the effect is important for the development of treatment strategies. Systematic review registration: International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42020172251
High-viscosity bone cement for vertebral compression fractures: a prospective study on intravertebral diffusion of bone cement
Authors: wang meiyong , jin qunhua
Published: April 2020

Objective: Bone cement leakage causes severe complication following percutaneous vertebroplasty. This study probed the diffusion and leakage status of bone cement injected within diverged time duration, so as to find the optimal injection time for bone cement. Methods: A total of 70 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with a symptom of low back pain, who underwent treatment at hospital were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomized into three groups: <180 s, 180-300, and >300 s of injection time duration from the beginning to the completion of the injection. The scenarios of vertebral bone cement leakage and diffusion were inspected using postoperative CT.Results: The diffusion coefficient was higher in group A than in group B whereas it was higher in group B than in group C, but without statistical significance among the three groups. The leakage rate was without statistical significance among the three groups. The injection time of bone cement was negatively correlated with the diffusion coefficient, at the correlation coefficient of -0.253. Conclusions: The diffusion coefficient of high-viscosity bone cement is likely negatively correlated with the injection time, and the leakage rate of high-viscosity bone cement probably does not reduce with the prolongation of injection time.
Development of Adhesion Force Evaluation Equipment for Nano Diamond Coated Tool Using Shear Method
Authors: Li Jinghua , Lee SoJin , Kweon HyunKyu
Published: April 2020

In this study, we have developed a thin film adhesion evaluation system for diamond coating tool, which is mainly used for CFRP processing, which is widely used in aviation and automobile industries. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), which is a composite material is widely used for high efficiency and light weight in the aerospace industry and automobile industry. CFRP has a low specific gravity and a high specific strength. However, it has difficulty in processing because it has difficulty property. In order to cope with this problem, CFRP is processed using a diamond coating tool with a higher surface hardness. Because of the high surface hardness of the diamond coating tool, it is difficult to evaluate the adhesive strength of the tool, and it is difficult to quantitatively evaluate the existing adhesion force evaluation method and it is costly. This study has developed an evaluation method to measure the adhesive force based on the data of the grinding process using a low cost polishing pad. When the frictional force and the shearing force are applied to the specimen by the sanding belt, friction is continuously generated between the coating layer and the belt, and peeling occurs at the moment when a specific load is applied. Acceleration, load, and torque values that occur during each experiment are collected through acceleration sensors, load cells, and torque sensors. The data obtained through the experiments are subjected to FFT processing and analysis. As a result, the peeling point and the critical load value at this point are identified and referred to as the adhesion force of the coating layer.