bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical field theory of the transmission of nerve impulses
Authors: Balzo Gianluigi Zangari del
Published: November 2020

Background Stochastic processes leading voltage-gated ion channel dynamics on the nerve cell membrane are a sufficient condition to describe membrane conductance through statistical mechanics of disordered and complex systems.Results Voltage-gated ion channels in the nerve cell membrane are described by the Ising model. Stochastic circuital elements called ”Ising machines” are introduced. Action potentials are described as quasi-particles of a statistical field theory for the Ising system.Conclusions The particle description of action potentials is a new powerful tool to describe the generation and propagation of nerve impulses. We thus have the opportunity to exploit another useful point of view to describe the generation and propagation of nerve impulses, especially when classical electrophysiological models break down. Moreover, the particle description allows us to develop new hardware and software devices based on general and theoretical physics to study neurodegenerative and demyelinating diseases as Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease, even integrated by connectomes. It is also suitable for the study of complex networks, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, machine and deep learning, cryptography, ultra-fast lines for entanglement experiments and many other applications of medical, physical and engineering interest.
Global Scientific Output Trend for Akkermansia muciniphila Research: A Bibliometric and Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Dehghanbanadaki Hojat , Aazami Hossein , raftar shahrbanoo keshavarz azizi , Ashrafian Fatemeh , Ejtahed Hanieh-Sadat , Hashemi Ehsan , Tavassol Zahra Hoseini , Badi Sara Ahmadi , Siadat Seyed Davar
Published: November 2020

Background: Akkermansia muciniphila is an anaerobic bacterium residing in the healthy intestinal tract of host and its quantity has a negative correlation with various host diseases. This study for the first time provides a holistic bibliometric aspect of Akkermansia muciniphila research in the literature and shows the hot topic terms of these articles in any period of time.Methods: Scopus database was selected to retrieve documents relevant to Akkermansia muciniphila in any language up to 2019. The bibliometric profile of Akkermansia muciniphila articles including subject area, year distribution, citations, institutions, journals, authors, and countries was systematically characterized and the collaboration networks of authors and countries as well as the burst detection algorithm of the words in the titles, abstracts and keywords were visualized.Results: There is a progressive growing trend in research on Akkermansia from 2004 to 2019 with a total of 566 articles during this period. Out of 353 original articles, there are 194 animal studies (155 studies on mice) and 112 human studies. Also, 65 various diseases were investigated in these studies. The most focused conditions are obesity (71 articles) and type2 diabetes (39 articles). The United States is the leading country on Akkermansia publications (n=132), followed by China (n=95). Frontiers in Microbiology is the most dominant journal with 23 Akkermansia publications. In addition, “cancer” is the hot topic of recent Akkermansia research.Conclusion: Akkermansia research is of progressive interest during the last decade and the studies on this subject move towards its relationship with cancer and its promising effect on health.
Continuous monitoring of plant sodium transport dynamics using clinical PET
Authors: Ruwanpathirana Gihan P. , Plett Darren , Williams Robert C. , Davey Catherine E. , Johnston Leigh A. , Kronzucker Herbert J.
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe absorption, translocation, accumulation and excretion of substances are fundamental processes in all organisms including plants, and have been successfully studied using radiotracers labelled with 11C, 13N, 14C and 22Na since 1939. Sodium is one of the most damaging ions to the growth and productivity of crops. Due to the significance of understanding sodium transport in plants, a significant number of studies have been carried out to examine sodium influx, compartmentation, and efflux using 22Na- or 24Na-labeled salts. Notably, however, most of these studies employed destructive methods, which has limited our understanding of sodium flux and distribution characteristics in real time, in live plants.Positron emission tomography (PET) has been used successfully in medical research and diagnosis for decades. Due to its ability to visualise and assess physiological and metabolic function, PET imaging has also begun to be employed in plant research. Here, we report the use of a clinical PET scanner with a 22Na tracer to examine 22Na-influx dynamics in barley plants (Hordeum vulgare L. spp. vulgare – cultivar Bass) under variable nutrient levels, alterations in the day/night light cycle, and the presence of sodium channel inhibitors.Results 3D dynamic PET images of whole plants show readily visible 22Na translocation from roots to shoots in each examined plant, with rates influenced by both nutrient status and channel inhibition. PET images show that plants cultivated in low-nutrient media transport more 22Na than plants cultivated in high-nutrient media, and that 22Na uptake is suppressed in the presence of a cation-channel inhibitor. A distinct diurnal pattern of 22Na influx was discernible in curves displaying rates of change of relative radioactivity. Plants were found to absorb more 22Na during the light period, and anticipate the change in the light/dark cycle by adjusting the sodium influx rate downward in the dark period, an effect not previously described experimentally.ConclusionsWe demonstrate the utility of clinical PET/CT scanners for real-time monitoring of the temporal dynamics of sodium transport in plants. The effects of nutrient deprivation and of ion channel inhibition on sodium influx into barley plants are shown in two proof-of-concept experiments, along with the first-ever 3D-imaging of the light and dark sodium uptake cycles in plants. This method carries significant potential for plant biology research and, in particular, in the context of genetic and treatment effects on sodium acquisition and toxicity in plants.
Prognostic value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and location in patients with EGFR mutant metastatic non-small cell lung cancer treated with TKIs
Authors: Xie Xueqi , Li Xiaolin , Tang Wenjie , Chen Jinlong , Li Minghuan , Xie Peng , Yu Jinming
Published: November 2020

Background: Targeted therapy with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has improved the field of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer treatment. Higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and lower relative lymphocyte counts as inflammatory indicators and associated with worse overall survival and progression free survival (PFS) in several tumor types. Few studies focused on these inflammation markers in context of TKIs eras. Methods: Patients with advanced EGFR mutation NSCLC treated with TKIs were included. Pre-treatment NLR means neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio measured in peripheral blood within one week before treating with TKIs. The baseline clinical characteristics of each group were compared by chi-square and t tests. Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate prognostic value of peripheral blood parameters on progression free survival (PFS). All prognostic factors were explored with multivariable regression. Results: We retrospectively analyzed 221 patients with metastatic NSCLC harboring exon 19 deletion, 21 L858R or rare mutation and receiving TKIs. Finally, a total of 190 patients were analyzed. The optimal cutoff values for pretreatment absolute lymphocyte count (Lym), lymphocyte percentage (Lym%), absolute neutrophil count (Neu), the percentage of neutrophil granulocytes (Neu%) and NLR were 1.625 B, 18.8%, 3.675a, 51.8% and 4.965, respectively. Patients with high neutrophil percent (13.0 months vs 18.8 months, P=0.003), absolute neutrophil counts (12.0 months vs 14.5 months, P=0.014) and NLR (7.0 months vs 15.2 months, P<0.001, one-year PFS Rate, 55.3%, respectively) had worse PFS. In contrast, patients with high absolute lymphocyte counts (13.0 months vs 16.5 months, P=0.012) and lymphocyte percent (8.8 months vs 15.3months, P<0.001) had a better PFS. Besides, tumor location was also an important factor for prognosis (11.6 months vs 14.3 months, P=0.003). On multivariate analysis, NLR and primary tumor location were both identified as independent and significantly risk indicators for worse PFS. Conclusion: NLR and primary location are both independent prognostic factors for PFS in patients with metastatic EGFR mutated lung tumor. Whether or not NLR and primary location could be usefulmarkers in efficacy prediction of TKIs in advanced NSCLC calls for further investigation.
Association of hemoglobin glycation index and its interaction with obesity/family history of hypertension on hypertension risk: a community-based cross-sectional survey
Authors: Mi Jing , Song Jian , Zhao Yingying , wu xue-sen
Published: November 2020

BackgroundHemoglobin glycation index (HGI) is considered to be a convenient measurable indicator to assess the inter-individual variation of HbA1c. In the present study, we tested the relationship between HGI and risk of hypertension, and further explored the possible interacting influences of HGI with other such factors on hypertension risk among Chinese individuals.Methods The eligible subjects were chosen from a community-based cross-sectional survey in China.We collected relevant data and clinical indicators for each participant. HGI was calculated as “measured HbA1c-predicted HbA1c” and divided into four categories according to quartile. The following indicators were used to assess interactive effects：(1) relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI); (2) attributable proportion due to interaction (AP); and (3) synergy index (SI). Statistical analysis was performed using R software.ResultsSpecifically, 1777 eligible participants were selected in this cross-sectional survey. There were 433 subjects who were identified to have hypertension (24.4%). A significant increase in the prevalence of hypertension from Q1 to Q4 of HGI was observed (P<0.001). Multivariable logistic model demonstrated that subjects at the highest HGI group had a substantially increased risk of being hypertensive than subjects in the first quartile of HGI, as indicated by the OR value of 1.87(95%CI: 1.26-2.78). Moreover, a significant interaction between family history of hypertension and HGI on hypertension risk was detected (RERI:1.36,95%CI:0.11-2.63; AP: 0.43, 95%CI:0.17-0.69; and SI:2.68, 95% CI:1.10-6.48). The interactive effect between HGI and abdominal obesity was also found to be significant, as estimated by the value of RERI (1.04, 95%CI:0.24-1.85), AP (0.33, 95% CI: 0.11-0.56) and SI (1.96, 95%CI:1.01-3.79). However, in the analysis of the interaction between HGI and general obesity, only the AP value (0.28, 95%CI: 0.01-0.54) was observed to be significant.ConclusionHigh HGI was independently associated with the risk of hypertension. Moreover, HGI significantly shared interactions with obesity and family history of hypertension that influenced the risk of hypertension.
Analysis of the length of fixation during hemivertebra resection. A monocentric cohort
Authors: Ryabykh Sergey O , Filatov Egor Yu , Mejabi Joseph Olorunsogo , Savin Dmitry M , Gubin Alexander B
Published: November 2020

Background: We aimed at reviewing results of surgical correction of spinal deformity due to hemivertebra with regard to length of instrumentation. Methods: Study comprised 117 patients with congenital spinal deformity treated between 2010 and 2018. Patients’ aged 1 to 18 years. Mean follow-up was 3 years (1 to 8). Posterior approach was used in all cases. Patients were subdivided into 4 groups. Result: Unilateral monosegmental fixation (Group I) for 15 children with mean age of 48.3 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 31.1 0 + 6.4 0 and 29.3° + 11.9 0 corrected to 7.8 0 + 6.8 0 and 4.7 0 + 4.0 0 respectively. Blood loss was 213.6 mL. Operating time was 165 minutes. Bilateral monosegmental fixation (Group II) for 24 patients with mean age of 53.1 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 32.5° + 8.6 0 and 30.9° + 4.3 0 corrected to 5.3 0 + 2.8 0 and 0.2 0 + 11.6 0 respectively. Blood loss was 215.4 mL. Operating time was 160.5 minutes. Bilateral three-segmental fixation (Group III) for 29 patients with mean age of 78.2 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 36.6° + 10.6 0 and 37.6° + 14.6 0 corrected to 6.2 0 + 6.1 0 and 5.0 0 + 5.2 0 respectively. Blood loss was 342.7 mL. Operating time was 197.0 minutes. Bilateral polysegmental fixation (Group IV) for 49 children with mean age of 112.7 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 40.2° + 14.8 0 and 58.2° + 35.6 0 corrected to 10.7 0 + 9.6 0 and 10.7 0 + 10.3 0 respectively. Blood loss was 549.3 mL. Operating time was 288.8 minutes. Conclusion: Choice of spinal fixation technique and the length of fixation were determined on the basis of patient’s age, magnitude of the deformity and concomitant vertebral abnormalities.
Evaluation of Camera-Based Freehand SPECT in Preoperative Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping for Melanoma Patients
Authors: Kogler Annie K. , Polemi Andrew M. , Nair Surabhi , Majewski Stanislaw , Dengel Lynn E. , Slingluff Craig L. , Kross Brian , Lee S J , McKisson J. E. , McKisson John , Weisenberger Andrew G. , Welch Benjamin L. , Wendler Thomas , Matthies Philipp , Traub Joerg , Witt Michael , Williams Mark Bennett
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAssessment of lymphatic status via sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is an integral and crucial part of melanoma surgical oncology. The most common technique for sentinel node mapping is preoperative planar scintigraphy of an injected gamma-emitting lymphatic tracer followed by intraoperative node localization using a non-imaging gamma probe with auditory feedback. In recent years, intraoperative visualization of SLNs in 3-D has become possible by coupling the probe to an external system capable of tracking its location and orientation as it is read out, thereby enabling computation of the 3D distribution of the tracer (freehand SPECT). In this project, the non-imaging probe of the fhSPECT system was replaced by a unique handheld gamma camera containing an array of sodium iodide crystals optically coupled to an array of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs). A feasibility study was performed in which preoperative SLN mapping was performed using camera fhSPECT and the number of detected nodes was compared to that visualized by lymphoscintigraphy, probe fhSPECT, and to the number ultimately excised under non-imaging probe guidance.ResultsAmong five subjects, SLNs were detected in nine lymphatic basins, with one to five SLNs detected per basin. A basin-by-basin comparison showed that the number of SLNs detected using camera fhSPECT exceeded that using lymphoscintigraphy and probe fhSPECT in seven of nine basins and five of five basins, respectively (probe fhSPECT scans were not performed for four basins). It exceeded the number excised under non-imaging probe guidance for seven of nine basins, and equaled the number excised for the other two basins. ConclusionsFreehand SPECT using a prototype SiPM-based gamma camera demonstrates high sensitivity for detection of SLNs in a preoperative setting. Camera fhSPECT is a potential means for efficiently obtaining real-time 3D activity distribution maps in applications such as image-guided percutaneous biopsy, and surgical SLN biopsy or radioguided tumor excision.
Efficacy of a coordinated strategy for containment of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria carriage in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the context of an active surveillance program
Authors: Saporito Laura , Graziano Giorgio , Mescolo Federica , Amodio Emanuele , Insinga Vincenzo , Rinaudo Grazia , Aleo Aurora , Bonura Celestino , Vitaliti Marcello , Corsello Giovanni , Vitale Francesco , Maida Carmelo Massimo , Giuffrè Mario
Published: November 2020

Background: Antimicrobial resistance in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) patients is a threat, due to the large use of antimicrobial treatment and invasive devices in fragile babies.Since 2014 an active surveillance program of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDR-GNB) carriage is in place in the five NICUs of Palermo, Italy. In 2017 an increase in the prevalence of MDR-GNB and in particular of extended-spectrum β-lactamases-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-KP) was observed in “Civico” hospital NICU.Aim: To estimate the impact of a coordinated intervention strategy in achieving long-lasting reduction of MDR-GNB prevalence in the NICU.Methods: Rectal swabs were obtained monthly and processed to detect MDR-GNB using standard methods. MDR-GNB were characterized by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). From November 2017 the following intervention measures were applied: a) two-months strengthening of sample collection; b) stakeholders’ meetings; c) improvement of prevention measures and antimicrobial policy.Findings: During the strengthened microbiological surveillance MDR-GNB and ESBL-KP were detected in rectal swabs (34.8%; 23.2%), nasal swabs (24.6%; 14.5%), oral swabs (14.5%; 5.4%), milk samples (32.1%; 17.9%), soother swabs (30.8%; 17.9%) and from a sub-intensive room surface. Thirteen ESBL-KP strains isolated from clinical and environmental samples showed identical PFGE patterns.Prevalence of MDR-GNB and ESBL-KP carriage significantly decreased in the year after intervention compared to the previous year (20.6% vs 62.2 %; p<0.001 and 11.1% vs 57.8%; p<0.001). MDR-GNB were not detected for three months and ESBL-KP for five months. Multivariate analysis of principal exposure variables showed that admission in post-intervention period significantly reduced the risk of MDR-GNB carriage (adj-OR=0.21, 95% CI=0.076-0.629; p<0.001).Conclusions: MDR-GNB broadly circulate in NICU setting and can colonize different body sites and spread by various vehicles. A coordinated strategy of multiple interventions with active cooperation between epidemiologists and clinicians in the NICU can effectively reduce their circulation and in particular the carriage of most dangerous ESBL-KP strains.
Comparing an e-Health Program Vs Home Rehabilitation Program in Patients With Non-Specific Low Back Pain: Study Protocol Randomized Feasibility Trial.
Authors: Castro-Sánchez Adelaida María , Soler Eduardo Antequera , Matarán-Peñarrocha Guillermo A. , Hurley-Osing Deirdre , Fernández-Sánchez Manuel , García-López Héctor , Lara-Palomo Inmaculada C.
Published: November 2020

Background: Most patients who experience chronic low back pain are managed in primary care services, the international clinical guidelines endorse like first line of treatment the self-management and recommendations for the management of their ailment. The treatment of low back pain an individual self-maintenance program through a web application could mean maintaining of the symptoms, reducing costs in terms of medical care and time work absence. There is little evidence on the reliability of the via Internet-based rehabilitation systems to treat low back pain, the implementation of a clinical and efficient self-maintenance web program is a key priority for the health service in Andalusia.Methods: This protocol describes a double-blind, randomized controlled feasibility trial of a telemedicine program (e-Health intervention) developed to support the self-management of people with chronic low back pain in primary care physiotherapy. Three Hospital with primary care for outpatients will be the units of randomisation, in each Hospital the participants will be randomized to one of two groups, a pragmatic control group receiving either the usual home program based on electrostimulation and McKenzie Therapy and e-Health intervention. Patients are followed up at 2 and 6 months. The primary outcomes are (1) acceptability and demand of the intervention by general practitioners, physiotherapists and patients and (2) feasibility and optimal study design/ methods for a definitive trial. Secondary outcomes will include exploratory analysis and variation in clinical outcomes of pain, disability, fear of movement, quality of life, isometric resistance of the trunk flexors, lumbar mobility in flexion and lumbar segmental range of motion; and the effect of the intervention.Discussion: Through the specific e-Health programs at home, could increase adherence to treatment, patients could learn to control and self-manage the evolution of their low back pain, preventing its evolution to stages of greater pain and disability. If the painful symptomatology improves could be cost-effective healthcare tool that can reach a large number of people living in rural or remote areas.Trial Registration: PC-0185-2017/ NCT04283370. Registered 20 February 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04283370. Recruiting.
Modelling an unconventional closed-loop deep borehole heat exchanger (DBHE): Sensitivity Analysis on the Newberry Volcanic Setting
Authors: Doran Hannah Rose , Renaud Theo , Falcone Gioia , Pan Lehua , Verdin Patrick
Published: November 2020

Alternative (unconventional) deep geothermal designs are needed to provide a secure and efficient geothermal energy supply. An in-depth sensitivity analysis was investigated considering a deep borehole closed-loop heat exchanger (DBHE) to overcome the current limitations of deep EGS. A T2Well/EOS1 model previously calibrated on an experimental DBHE in Hawaii was adapted to the current NWG 55-29 well at the Newberry volcano site in Central Oregon. A sensitivity analysis was carried out, including parameters such as: the working fluid mass flow rate, the casing and cement thermal properties and the wellbore radii dimensions. The results conclude the highest energy flow rate to be 1.5MW, after an annulus radii increase and an imposed mass flow rate of 5kg/. At 3kg/s, the DBHE yielded an energy flow rate a factor of 3.5 lower than the NWG 55-29 conventional design. Despite this loss, the sensitivity analysis allows an assessment of the key thermodynamics within the wellbore and provide a valuable insight into how heat is lost/gained throughout the system. This analysis was performed under the assumption of subcritical conditions, and could aid the development of unconventional designs within future EGS work like the Newberry Deep Drilling Project (NDDP). Requirements for further software development are briefly discussed, which would facilitate the modelling of unconventional geothermal wells in supercritical systems to support EGS projects that could extend to deeper depths.
Development of a superstructure optimization framework for the design of municipal solid waste facilities
Authors: Puchongkawarin Channarong , Mattaraj Supatpong
Published: November 2020

The main objective of this study is to develop a decision-making tool for the design of the optimal municipal solid waste (MSW) facilities based on superstructure optimization. Currently, the disposal of MSW is a major problem due to the lack of awareness of the negative impacts resulting from dumping MSW into the environment. This poses a challenge for the authorities. MSW valorization such as anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, gasification etc has been increasingly focused on as an approach when handling MSW to enhance both economic and environmental sustainability. However, with an increasing array of processing technologies, the design of MSW facilities involving the integration of these technologies is becoming tedious and unmanageable. To deal with this problem, superstructure optimization is proposed. It is an effective tool for the design of several chemical processes because it is able to consider all potential process alternatives including the optimal solution using mathematical models based on mass and energy balances. Uncertainty is incorporated into the optimization framework to enhance the robustness of the solution. The proposed methodology was applied in the design process of the MSW facility in Ubon Rathathani province, Thailand, with the objective function of maximizing the profit. The optimization problem was developed as Mixed Integer Linear Programming and it was solved using an optimization platform, General Algebraic Modeling System, with CPLEX as the solver related to obtaining the optimal solution. The results show there to be as positive profit that is economically viable compared to the use of landfill technology.
Clinical features of Japanese patients with exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Tashiro Hiroki , Kurihara Yuki , Takahashi Koichiro , Sadamatsu Hironori , Haraguchi Tetsuro , Tajiri Ryo , Takamori Ayako , Kimura Shinya , Sueoka-Aragane Naoko
Published: November 2020

BackgroundExacerbations are critical events in chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD). The frequency of COPD exacerbations is associated with the prognosis, including mortality, but no useful biomarker has been established.MethodsThe present retrospective study investigated 481 COPD patients. Clinical features in the stable period were compared between patients who experienced severe exacerbation (n=88, 18.3%) and those who never experienced severe exacerbation (n=393, 81.7%). In the patients who experienced exacerbations, clinical features were also compared between frequent exacerbators (exacerbation rate ≥ 2 times/year, n=27, 30.7%) and infrequent exacerbators (1 time/year, n=61, 69.3%).ResultsCompared to COPD patients who never experienced exacerbations, body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, and pulmonary functions were significantly lower, and the cardiovascular disease comorbidity rate, COPD assessment test score, modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale, and use of long-term oxygen therapy, long-acting β2 adrenergic agonist therapy, inhaled corticosteroid therapy, and macrolide therapy were significantly higher in COPD patients with exacerbations (all p < 0.01). In patients who experienced exacerbations, frequent exacerbators had significantly lower % forced expiratory volume in 1.0 second and a higher risk of critical exacerbations, percentage of blood eosinophils, history of mechanical ventilation use, and use of long-term oxygen therapy and of macrolide therapy than infrequent exacerbators (all p < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, the percentage of blood eosinophils was the parameter most correlated with exacerbation frequency (β value [95% confidence interval] 1.45 [1.12 – 1.88], p < 0.01).ConclusionBlood eosinophil in the stable period is the factor most correlated with the frequency of severe exacerbations.Trial registrationThe patients in this study was registered retrospectively
Attitudinal and demographic factors associated with seeking help and receiving antidepressant medication for symptoms of common mental disorder
Authors: Manescu Elena Andreea , Robinson Emily J. , Henderson Claire
Published: November 2020

Background: Despite the increased attention given to improvement of mental health-related knowledge and attitudes, rates of help-seeking for mental illness remain low even in countries with well-developed mental health services. This study examines the relationships between attitudes to mental illness, symptoms of common mental disorder and seeking-help and receiving medication for a mental health problem. Methods: We used data from the nationally representative Health Survey for England 2014 to design three logistic regression models to test for the effects of attitudes to mental illness (measured by a shortened version of the Community Attitudes toward the Mentally Ill, CAMI scale) on: recent contact with a doctor for a mental health problem; use of any type of mental health service in the last 12 months; and having antidepressants currently prescribed, while controlling for symptoms of common mental disorder (measured by the General Health Questionnaire, GHQ). We also tested for an interaction between attitudes to mental illness and symptoms of common mental disorder on the outcomes. Results: A significant but very small effect of CAMI score was found on ‘antidepressants currently prescribed’ model (OR=1.01(1.00, 1.02) but not on the two indicators of help-seeking. We also found a significant but very small interaction between CAMI and GHQ scores on recent contact with a doctor (OR= 0.99, 95% CI (0.990, 0.998); adjusted Wald test P=0.01)). Knowing someone with a mental illness had a significant positive effect on help-seeking indicated by: (a) recent contact with a doctor (2.65 (1.01, 6.98)) and (b) currently prescribed antidepressant (2.67 (1.9, 3.75)) after controlling for attitudes to mental illness. Conclusions: Our results suggest that knowing someone with a mental health problem seems to have a further positive effect on help-seeking, beyond improving attitudes to mental illness. Furthermore, multiple different types and aspects of stigma may contribute to help-seeking behaviours, consequently multi-faceted approaches are likely to be most efficient.
Psychometric evaluation of the Thai version of Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (Th-ECOHIS): a cross sectional validation study
Authors: Leelataweewud Pattarawadee , Jirarattanasopha Varangkanar , Ungchusak Chantana , Vejvithee Warangkana
Published: November 2020

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) is prevalent in Thailand. There has never been an appropriate tool to measure its impact on children’s quality of life. This study translated Early childhood oral health impact scale (ECOHIS), a widely used proxy-reported questionnaire developed in the United States for measuring the oral health related quality of life of preschool children and their families, into Thai (Th-ECOHIS). Its psychometric properties were investigated in Thai caregivers and their children. Methods: Cultural adaptation for the scale development within Thai context was processed using forward–backward translation by experts. A face and content validation was conducted among 20 Thai caregivers to attain the final Th-ECOHIS. Psychometric testing was done on 3-year-old child-caregiver pairs in Bangkok with the interviewer-administered mode. Children’s oral health was indicated by caries experience (decayed, missing and filled primary teeth, dmft) and treatment need. The caregivers answered the Th-ECOHIS and global questions regarding perception of their children’s oral health. Across items reliability was assessed by internal consistency using the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Test-retest reliability was managed at 2-week interval in 10% of samples using the intraclass correlation coefficient calculated by two-way analysis of variance. The discriminant validity was tested by the relationship between the severity of dental caries, treatment need and Th-ECOHIS scores using Kruskal-Wallis test.Results: A total of 214 child-caregiver pairs participated. Twenty-two percent had ECC (dmft 1-3) and 17.3% had severe ECC (dmft 4 or higher) with mean (SD) dmft 1.63 (2.92). All items in the original ECOHIS were retained in the Thai version. The test-retest reliability of Th-ECOHIS was 0.87; internal consistency was 0.85; the total of Th-ECOHIS scores were significantly correlated with the global rating of oral health question (r = 0.604). Th-ECOHIS scores in both child and family impact sections and total were significantly associated with the severity of caries (p < 0.001) and treatment need (p < 0.001).Conclusions: Th-ECOHIS demonstrated good reliability and validity. It could be used to assess the impacts of ECC on quality of life of Thai pre-school children through caregiver and compare to other countries.
Characteristics and Treatments for Pediatric Ordinary and Incarcerated Inguinal Hernia Based on Gender: 12-Year Experiences from a Single Center
Authors: Wang Kai , Tan Sarah Siyin , Xiao Yue , Wang Zengmeng , Peng Chunhui , Pang Wenbo , Wu Dongyang , Chen Yajun
Published: November 2020

Background: Congenital primary inguinal hernia is a common condition among children. Although much literature regarding inguinal hernia is available, large scale analysis are few, and rarely do they expand on gender difference or incarcerated hernias. Methods: Patients with unilateral or bilateral inguinal hernia who were admitted to our hospital and received open inguinal hernia repair (OIHR) or laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (LIHR) under general anesthesia were included. Medical records were retrospectively collected and analyzed.Results: A total of 12190 patients were included in this study. The ratio of male to female was 4.8:1. There was a total of 10646 unilateral hernias (87.3%) and 1544 bilateral hernias (12.7%), with a corresponding ratio of 6.9:1. 12444 hernia repair surgeries, 11083 (89.1%) OIHR and 1361 (10.9%) LIHR, were held. OIHR had a shorter operative time than LIHR for all unilateral and female bilateral repair, unlike for bilateral male repair. There was no difference between OIHR and LIHR for ipsilateral recurrent hernia in males. There was a difference between OIHR and LIHR for metachronous contralateral hernia.Incarcerated inguinal hernia was associated with longer operative time, hospital stay and higher hospital costs. Females and patients under 1 year were more likely to present with incarcerated hernia.Conclusions: OIHR should be considered for male patients, especially for unilateral and complete inguinal hernia. LIHR is highly recommended for female patients. For incarcerated hernia, attention should be paid to patients under 1 year old, as they can be 60 times more susceptible, and females. Surgeons should also be aware of ovary hernias in females.
A Cross-Sectional Survey of Fertility Knowledge in Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents
Authors: Roberts Leah May , Kudesia Rashmi , Zhao Huaqing , Dolan Shaliz , Rose Marisa
Published: November 2020

PURPOSE: To evaluate fertility knowledge among current Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents using a recently published validated instrument, the Fertility and Infertility Treatment Knowledge Score (FIT-KS).METHODS: OB-GYN residents in the United States were recruited through an email to all residency directors nationwide. They were asked to voluntarily respond to a short questionnaire including demographic information and the FIT-KS instrument, through an online survey platform. Of approximately 5,000 OB-GYN residents in the country, 177 responded. RESULTS: The sample was 91% female, with 69% between the ages of 26 and 30. Participants evenly represented all four years of training. Mean FIT-KS score was 21.2 (73% correct; range 17-26). No statistically significant differences were noted across the level of training (p=0.23). Several knowledge gaps were noted. Residents could define the common assisted reproductive technologies; however, overestimated their success rates per cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial gaps exist in fertility knowledge among OB-GYN residents, with understanding of male fertility and success rates of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) being particularly limited. Knowledge of fertility does not change throughout residency training, demonstrating consistent gaps in fertility knowledge. Knowledge during post graduate year (PGY)-1 year is consistent with mean scores found in prior research in Internal Medicine residents (65%), as well as a cohort of female medical students and obstetrics and gynecology residents and fellows (64.9%)(1, 2).
Triple null mutations in starch synthase SSIIa gene homoeologs lead to high amylose and resistant starch in hexaploid wheat
Authors: Schoen Adam , Joshi Anupama , Tiwari Vijay K , Gill Bikram S. , Rawat Nidhi
Published: November 2020

Background: Lack of nutritionally appropriate foods is one of the leading causes of obesity in the US and worldwide. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) provides 20% of the calories consumed daily across the globe. The nutrients in the wheat grain come primarily from the starch composed of amylose and amylopectin. Resistant starch content, which is known to have significant human health benefits, can be increased by modifying starch synthesis pathways. Starch synthase enzyme SSIIa, also known as starch granule protein isoform-1 (SGP-1), is integral to the biosynthesis of the branched and readily digestible glucose polymer amylopectin. The goal of this work was to develop a triple null mutant genotype for SSIIa locus in the elite hard red winter wheat variety ‘Jagger’ and evaluate the effect of the knock-out mutations on resistant starch content in grains with respect to wild type. Results: Knock-out mutations in SSIIa in the three genomes of wheat variety ‘Jagger’ were identified using TILLING. Subsequently, these loss-of function mutations on A, B, and D genomes were combined by crossing to generate a triple knockout mutant genotype Jag-ssiia-∆ABD. The Jag-ssiia-∆ABD had an amylose content of 35.70% compared to 31.15% in Jagger, leading to ~118% increase in resistant starch in the Jag-ssiia-∆ABD genotype of Jagger wheat. The single individual genome mutations also had various effects on starch composition. Conclusions: Our full null Jag-ssiia-∆ABD mutant showed a significant increase in RS without the shriveled grain phenotype seen in other ssiia knockouts in elite wheat cultivars. Moreover, this study shows the potential for developing nutritionally improved foods in a non-GM approach. Since all the mutants have been developed in an elite wheat cultivar, their adoption in production and supply will be feasible in future.
Effect of real-time ultrasound imaging for biofeedback on trunk muscle contraction in healthy subjects: a preliminary study
Authors: Lin Shanshan , Zhu Bo , Zheng Yiyi , Huang Guozhi , Zeng Qing , Wang Chuhuai
Published: November 2020

Background: Real-time ultrasound imaging (RUSI) has been increasingly used as a form of biofeedback when instructing and re-training muscle contraction. However, the effectiveness of the RUSI on a single sustained contraction of the lumbar multifidus (LM) and transversus abdominis (TrA) has rarely been reported. This preliminary study aimed to determine if the use of RUSI, as visual biofeedback, could enhance the ability of activation and continuous contraction of the trunk muscles including LM and TrA.Methods: Forty healthy individuals were included and randomly assigned into the experimental group and control group. All subjects performed a preferential activation of the LM and/or TrA (maintained the constraction of LM and/or TrA for 30 seconds and then relaxed for two minutes), while those in the experimental group also received visual feedback provided by RUSI. The thickness of LM and/or TrA at rest and during contraction (Tc-max, T15s, and T30s) were extracted and recorded. The experiment was repeated three times.Results: No significant differences were found in the thickness of LM at rest (P > 0.999), Tc-max (P > 0.999), and T15s (P = 0.414) between the two groups. However, the ability to recruit LM muscle contraction differed between groups at T30s (P = 0.006), with subjects in the experimental group that received visual ultrasound biofeedback maintaining a relative maximum contraction. Besides, no significant differences were found in the TrA muscle thickness at rest (P > 0.999) and Tc-max (P > 0.999) between the two groups. However, significant differences of contraction thickness were found at T15s (P = 0.031) and T30s (P = 0.010) between the two groups during the Abdominal Drawing-in Maneuver (ADIM), with greater TrA muscle contraction thickness in the experimental group.Conclusions: RUSI can be used to provide visual biofeedback, which can promote continuous contraction, and improve the ability to activate the LM and TrA muscles in healthy subjects.
A comparative study of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program and none-ERAS traditional care in elderly patients undergoing lumbar arthrodesis
Authors: Li Zhong-En , Lu Shi-Bao , Kong Chao , Sun Wen-Zhi , Wang Peng , Zhang Si-Tao
Published: November 2020

Background: The aim of the present study was to analyze the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of an ERAS program in patients over 70 years undergoing lumbar arthrodesis by comparison with none-ERAS traditional care.Methods: During January 2018 to December 2018, patients enrolled received none-ERAS traditional care, while the ERAS program was implemented from January to December 2019. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, surgical data and postoperative recovery parameters were collected from all patients. Postoperative pain scores were evaluated by visual analog scales (VAS). The clinical outcomes were length of stay (LOS), postoperative complications and postoperative pain scores. Compliance results were also collected.Result: A total of 127 patients were enrolled, including 67 patients in the none-ERAS traditional care group and 60 patients in the ERAS group. The demographic characteristics and comorbidities of the two groups showed no significant differences. The LOS of patients treated with ERAS program (13.6±4.0 days) was significantly less than that of patients treated with none-ERAS traditional care (15.6±3.9 days). Complication rate was 8.3% in the ERAS group versus 20.9% in the none-ERAS traditional care group (p = 0.048). VAS (back) in the ERAS group was significantly lower on postoperative day (POD) 1 and POD2. Postoperative recovery parameters were improved in the ERAS group. The overall compliance with the ERAS program was 94%.Conclusions: Based on our results, ERAS program is safer and more effective for elderly patients over 70 undergoing lumbar arthrodesis than none-ERAS traditional care.
Comparing Zirconia to Anterior Strip Crowns in Primary Anterior Teeth in children, A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Alaki Sumer M , Abdulhadi Bashaer S , AbdelBaki Medhat A , Al-Alamoudi Najla M
Published: November 2020

Background: Providing restorations to anterior teeth in children is a challenging task due to the need for high esthetics, strength, and durability. This study was done to compare prefabricated primary zirconia with resin composite strip crowns on primary maxillary central and lateral incisors with regards to gingival health, plaque accumulation, recurrent caries, restoration failure, and opposing teeth wear over a period of 3, 6 and 12 months. Methods: Children attending the King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry (KAUFD) clinics who needed restorations were screened for inclusion criteria. A total of 120 teeth were treated; 60 with zirconia and 60 with strip crowns. Randomization was done by simple random allocation using SPSS software version 20.0 (Armonk, NY; IBM Corp.). A simple descriptive statistic was used for analysis by Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test and Chi-square test. Level of significance was set at (α = 0.05) and level of confidence at (95%). The presented research was registered retrospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov in 6th of August 2017, under registration number NCT03184012.Results: Zirconia crowns showed significantly less gingival bleeding at the 3- and 6-months follow up periods (p<0.006, p<0.001; respectively), less plaque accumulation at all follow up visits (p<0.001), no restoration failure (p<0.001), but more wear to opposing teeth (p<0.02). No significant difference was found between the two crowns with regards to recurrent caries (p<0.135).Conclusion: Based on our data we conclude that overtime teeth covered with zirconia crowns show better gingival health and less bleeding, plaque accumulation as well as less loss of material. On the other hand, zirconia can cause more loss of opposing tooth structure.
Comparative mapping and correlation analysis revealed differentiation in the genetic basis of stem trichome development between cultivated tetraploid cotton species
Authors: Yuan Rong , Cao Yuefen , Li Tengyu , Yang Feng , Yu Li , Qin Yuan , Du Xiongming , Liu Fang , Ding Mingquan , Jiang Yurong , Zhang Hua , Paterson Andrew H. , Rong Junkang
Published: November 2020

Background: Cotton stem trichomes and seed fibers are each single celled structures formed by protrusions of epidermal cells, and were found sharing the overlapping molecular mechanism . Compared with fibers, cotton stem trichomes are more easily observed, but the molecular mechanisms underlying their development are still poorly understood.Results: In this study, Gossypium hirsutum (Gh ) and G . barbadense ( Gb ) were found to differ greatly in percentages of varieties/accessions with glabrous stems and in trichome density, length, and number per trichopore. Gh varieties normally had long singular and clustered trichomes, while Gb varieties had short clustered trichomes. Genetic mapping using five F2 populations from crosses between glabrous varieties and those with different types of stem trichomes revealed that much variation among stem trichome phenotypes could be accounted for by different combinations of genes/alleles on Chr.06 and Chr.24. The twenty six F1 generations from crosses between varieties with different types of trichomes had varied phenotypes, further suggesting that the trichomes of tetraploid cotton were controlled by different genes/alleles. Compared to modern varieties, a greater proportion of Gh wild accessions were glabrous or had shorter and denser trichomes; whereas a smaller proportion of Gb primitive accessions had glabrous stems. A close correlation between fuzz fiber number and stem trichome density was observed in both Gh and Gb primitive accessions and modern varieties.Conclusion: Based on these findings, we hypothesize that stem trichomes evolved in parallel with seed fibers during the domestication of cultivated tetraploid cotton. In addition, the current results illustrated that stem trichome can be used as a morphological index of fiber quality in cotton conventional breeding.
Appropriate insertion point for percutaneous pedicle screw placement in the lumbar spine using c-arm fluoroscopy: a cadaveric study
Authors: Xu Wei-Xing , Ding wei-guo , Xu Bin , Hu Tian-Hong , Sheng Hong-Feng , Zhu Jia-Fu , Zhu Xiao-Long
Published: November 2020

Background: We studied the characteristics and regularity of appropriate insertion points for percutaneous pedicle screw placement in the lumbar spine using C-arm X-ray fluoroscopy. The purpose of this study was to improve the accuracy of percutaneous pedicle screw placement and reduce the incidence of superior-level facet joint violation. Methods: Six normal spinal specimens were included. Three different methods for placing percutaneous pedicle screws in the lumbar spine were applied, including the Roy-Camille method, Magerl method and Weinstein method. The relationships among the insertion point, pedicle projection and proximal facet joint on C-arm X-ray films were studied. The projection morphology of the vertebral pedicle in different segments of the lumbar spine was observed. The relationship between the outer edge of the pedicle projection and the outer edge of the cranial articular process was also studied. The distance between the insertion point and the facet joint (M1), the distance between the insertion point and outer edge of the cranial articular process (M2), and the distance between the insertion point and the projection center of the pedicle (M) were measured. Results: In this study, we found that the projection shape of the vertebral pedicle differed across segments of the lumbar spine: the shape for L1-L3 was oval, and that for L4-L5 was round. The radiographic study showed that the outer edge of the cranial articular process was located on the lateral side of the outer edge of the pedicle projection and did not overlap with the pedicle projection. M for the Weinstein group was larger than that for the Roy-Camille group (P < 0.05). M1 for the Weinstein group was larger than that for the Roy-Camille and Magerl groups (P < 0.05). M2 for the Roy-Camille group was negative, M2 for the Magerl group was 0, and M2 for the Weinstein group was positive. Conclusion: Under C-arm X-ray fluoroscopy, we were able to accurately identify the characteristics and regularity of the appropriate insertion point for percutaneous pedicle screw placement in the lumbar spine, which was important for improving the accuracy of percutaneous pedicle screw placement and reducing the incidence of superior-level facet joint violation.