bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption of SF6 Decomposed Products on ZnO-Modified C3N: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Wu Peng , Zhang Xiaoxing , Chen Dachang , Tang Ju
Published: September 2020

SF6, as an outstanding insulation medium, is widely used in the high-voltage insulation devices, guaranteeing the safe operation of the power system. Nevertheless, the inevitable partial discharge in a long-running device causes the decomposition of SF6 and deteriorates its insulation performance. In this work, DFT calculations were performed to study the adsorbing and sensing properties of ZnO-modified C3N (ZnO-C3N) nanosheet towards SF6 decomposed products, in order to propose a novel nano-candidate for evaluating the operation status of SF6 insulation devises. We first investigated the structure of ZnO-C3N monolayer and then simulated its adsorption behaviour upon four typical SF6 decomposed species, namely H2S, SO2, SOF2, and SO2F2. It is found that the ZnO-C3N monolayer can exhibit desirable reactivity and sensitivity on SO2, SOF2, and SO2F2, leading to the intense deformation of gas molecules and large adsorption energies. These consequences allow the potential application of gas adsorbent based on ZnO-C3N monolayer for removing impurity gases from SF6 insulation equipment. According to the analysis, it is supposed that ZnO-C3N monolayer is qualified to be used in maintaining insulation strength and ensuring the safe operation of power system.
Mitochondrial-nuclear coadaptation revealed through mtDNA replacements in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Nguyen Tuc H. M. , Sondhi Sargunvir , Ziesel Andrew , Paliwal Swati , Fiumera Heather L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Mitochondrial function requires numerous genetic interactions between mitochondrial- and nuclear- encoded genes. While selection for optimal mitonuclear interactions should result in coevolution between both genomes, evidence for mitonuclear coadaptation is challenging to document. Genetic models where mitonuclear interactions can be explored are needed.

Results

We systematically exchanged mtDNAs between 15 Saccharomyces cerevisiaeisolates from a variety of ecological niches to create 225 unique mitochondrial-nuclear genotypes. Analysis of phenotypic profiles confirmed that environmentally-sensitive interactions between mitochondrial and nuclear genotype contributed to growth differences. Exchanges of mtDNAs between strains of the same or different clades were just as likely to demonstrate mitonuclear epistasis although epistatic effect sizes increased with genetic distances. Strains with their original mtDNAs were more fit than strains with synthetic mitonuclear combinations when grown in media that resembled isolation habitats.

Conclusions

This study shows that natural variation in mitonuclear interactions contributes to fitness landscapes. Multiple examples of coadapted mitochondrial-nuclear genotypes suggest that selection for mitonuclear interactions may play a role in helping yeasts adapt to novel environments and promote coevolution.
Genome-wide analysis of the WRKY gene family in the cucumber genome and transcriptome-wide identification of WRKY transcription factors that respond to biotic and abiotic stresses
Authors: Chen Chunhua , Chen Xueqian , Han Jing , Lu Wenli , Ren Zhonghai
Published: September 2020

Background

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is an economically important vegetable crop species. However, it is susceptible to various abiotic and biotic stresses. WRKY transcription factors play important roles in plant growth and development, particularly in the plant response to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, little is known about the expression pattern of WRKY genes under different stresses in cucumber.

Results

In the present study, an analysis of the new assembly of the cucumber genome (v3.0) allowed the identification of 61 cucumber WRKY genes. Phylogenetic and synteny analyses were performed using related species to investigate the evolution of the cucumber WRKY genes. The 61 CsWRKYs were classified into three main groups, within which the gene structure and motif compositions were conserved. Tissue expression profiles of the WRKY genes demonstrated that 24 CsWRKY genes showed constitutive expression (FPKM > 1 in all samples), and some WRKY genes showed organ-specific expression, suggesting that these WRKYs might be important for plant growth and organ development in cucumber. Importantly, analysis of the CsWRKY gene expression patterns revealed that five CsWRKY genes strongly responded to both salt and heat stresses, 12 genes were observed to be expressed in response to infection from downy mildew and powdery mildew, and three CsWRKY genes simultaneously responded to all treatments analysed. Some CsWRKY genes were observed to be induced/repressed at different times after abiotic or biotic stress treatment, demonstrating that cucumber WRKY genes might play different roles during different stress responses and that their expression patterns vary in response to stresses.

Conclusions

Sixty-one WRKY genes were identified in cucumber, and insight into their classification, evolution, and expression patterns was gained in this study. Responses to different abiotic and biotic stresses in cucumber were also investigated. Our results provide a better understanding of the function of CsWRKY genes in improving abiotic and biotic stress resistance in cucumber.
An investigation and analysis of the activities of daily living of older adults living at home in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Yang Lina , Miao Xiaohui , Hu Xiuying
Published: September 2020

Background

To investigate the current situation regarding the activities of daily living (ADL) of older adults living at home in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China and to analyze the associated factors of ADL performance so that we can provide references for the implementation of pension policies and long-term care insurance of older adults living at home.

Methods

We surveyed a total of 1040 older adults who live at home and receive home-based care in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region by a face-to-face evaluation. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the factors associated with ADL performance.

Results

In the study, 82.79% of the older adults living at home can live independently. A total of 11.92% of the older adults have mild dysfunction, 4.33% have moderate dysfunction, and 0.96% have severe dysfunction. Multiple logistic analyses indicated that older adults with very difficult economic conditions (OR 3.212; 95% CI(1.209–8.534)) and without a spouse (OR 1.616; 95% CI(1.098–2.377)) were significantly associated with ADL limitations. In addition, the risks of ADL limitations in older adults aged 60–69 years and 70–79 years were 0.187 and 0.4307 times, respectively, that of older adults over 80 years old. The risk of ADL limitations in older adults of the Han nationality was 0.605 times that of the minority population. More highly educated and older adults without diseases have a lower risk of ADL limitations.

Conclusions

Compared with the national average in China, the number of ADL limitations of older adults in Ningxia is greater and is associated with advanced age, ethnic minority status, low education level, low income, lacking a spouse and having diseases. As the number of older adults increases, maintaining and improving their ability to perform ADL and providing comfortable pension services and health services urgently need to be solved.
Patient and provider perspectives on the development and resolution of prescribing cascades: a qualitative study
Authors: Farrell Barbara J. , Jeffs Lianne , Irving Hannah , McCarthy Lisa M.
Published: September 2020

Background

Prescribing cascades occur when the side effect of a medication is treated with a second medication. The aim of the study was to understand how prescribing cascades develop and persist and to identify strategies for their identification, prevention and management.

Method

This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews to explore the existence of prescribing cascades and to gather patients', caregivers' and clinicians’ perspectives about how prescribing cascades start, persist and how they might be resolved. Participants were older adults (over age 65) at an outpatient Geriatric Day Hospital (GDH) with possible prescribing cascades (identified by a GDH team member), their caregivers, and healthcare providers. Data were analyzed using an inductive content analysis approach.

Results

Fourteen participants were interviewed (eight patients, one family caregiver, one GDH pharmacist, three GDH physicians and one family physician) providing a total of 22 interviews about patient-specific cases. The complexity and contextually situated nature of prescribing cascades created challenges for all of those involved with their identification. Three themes impacted how prescribing cascades developed and persisted: varying awareness of medications and cascades; varying feelings of accountability for making decisions about medication-related care; and accessibility to an ideal environment and relevant information. Actions to prevent, identify or resolve cascades were suggested.

Conclusion

Patients and healthcare providers struggled to recognize prescribing cascades and identify when they had occurred; knowledge gaps contributed to this challenge and led to inaction. Strategies that equip patients and clinicians with resources to recognize prescribing cascades and environmental and social supports that would help with their identification are needed. Current conceptualizations of cascades warrant additional refinement by considering the nuances our work raises regarding their appropriateness and directionality.
Different clinical presentations of two renal transplant recipients with coronavirus disease 2019: a case report
Authors: Li Jing , Chen Gang , Zhang Mingmin , Tu Shenghao , Chen Chao
Published: September 2020

Background

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 has spread rapidly worldwide and disease spread is currently increasing. Data on the clinical picture of transplant recipients and management of the anti-rejection immunosuppressive therapy on COVID-19 infection are lacking.

Case presentation

We report two cases of COVID-19 infection in renal transplant recipients with variable clinical presentations. The first patient presented with mild respiratory symptoms and a stable clinical course. The second patient had more severe clinical characteristics and presented with severe pneumonia and multi-organ failure. Both patients received a combination therapy including antiviral treatment and reduced immunosuppression therapy and finally recovered.

Conclusions

We report COVID-19 infection in two renal transplant recipients with a favorable outcome but different clinical courses, which may provide a reference value for treating such patients.
Risk of active tuberculosis among COPD patients treated with fixed combinations of long-acting beta2 agonists and inhaled corticosteroids
Authors: Huang Tsan-Ming , Kuo Kuan-Chih , Wang Ya-Hui , Wang Cheng-Yi , Lai Chih-Cheng , Wang Hao-Chien , Chen Likwang , Yu Chong-Jen ,   On the behalf of Taiwan Clinical Trial Consortium for Respiratory Diseases (TCORE), Yu Chong-Jen , Wang Hao-Chien , Perng Diahn-Warng , Cheng Shih-Lung , Hsu Jeng-Yuan , Hsu Wu-Huei , Hsu Jeng-Yuan , Hsu Wu-Huei , Tsai Ying-Huang , Hsiue Tzuen-Ren , Lin Meng-Chih , Lin Hen-I , Wang Cheng-Yi , Chang Yeun-Chung , Yang Ueng-Cheng , Lin Cing-Syong , Chen Likwang , Wei Yu-Feng , Chong Inn-Wen , Chen Chung-Yu
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To investigate the incidence of active tuberculosis (TB) among COPD patients using fluticasone/salmeterol or budesonide/formoterol, and to identify any differences between these two groups of patients.

Methods

The study enrolled COPD patients from Taiwan NHIRD who received treatment with fluticasone/salmeterol or budesonide/formoterol for > 90 days between 2004 and 2011. The incidence of active TB was the primary outcome.

Results

Among the intention-to-treat population prior to matching, the incidence rates of active TB were 0.94 and 0.61% in the fluticasone/salmeterol and budesonide/formoterol groups, respectively. After matching, the fluticasone/salmeterol group had significantly higher rates of active TB (adjusted HR, 1.41, 95% CI, 1.17–1.70) compared with the budesonide/formoterol group. The significant difference between these two groups remained after a competing risk analysis (HR, 1.45, 95% CI, 1.21–1.74). Following propensity score matching, the fluticasone/salmeterol group had significantly higher rates of active TB compared with the budesonide/formoterol group (adjusted HR, 1.45, 95% CI, 1.14–1.85). A similar trend was observed after a competing risk analysis (HR, 1.44, 95% CI, 1.19–1.75). A higher risk of active TB was observed in the fluticasone/salmeterol group compared with the budesonide/formoterol group across all subgroups, but some differences did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

Fluticasone/salmeterol carried a higher risk of active TB compared with budesonide/formoterol among COPD patients.
The effect of maternal alcohol and drug abuse on first trimester screening analytes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lehikoinen Anni , Voutilainen Raimo , Romppanen Jarkko , Heinonen Seppo
Published: September 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine whether first trimester trisomy screening (FTS) parameters are affected by alcohol and drug use.

Methods

A routine combined FTS including measurements of maternal serum levels of free β-human chorionic gonadotropin subunit (free β-hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) were measured at 9–11 weeks of gestation, and fetal nuchal translucency thickness (NTT) at 11–13 weeks of gestation. In total 544 women with singleton pregnancies [71 alcohol and drug abusers, 88 smokers, 168 non-smokers delivering a small for gestational age (SGA) child, and 217 unexposed control women] were assessed.

Results

Free β-hCG levels were higher in alcohol and drug abusing than in unexposed pregnant women [mean 1.5 vs. 1.2 multiples of medians (MoM); P = 0.013]. However, stepwise multiple linear regression analyses suggested that smoking could explain increased free β-hCG. Additionally, we observed lower PAPP-A levels in the smoking mothers (0.9 vs. 1.2 MoM; P = 0.045) and in those giving birth to an SGA child compared to the controls (1.1 vs.. 1.2 MoM; P < 0.001). Fetal NTT did not differ significantly between any of the groups.

Conclusions

The present study shows increased free β-hCG levels in alcohol and drug abusers, but maternal smoking may explain the result. Maternal serum PAPP-A levels were lower in smoking than non-smoking mothers, and in mothers delivering an SGA child. However, FTS parameters (PAPP-A, free β-hCG and NTT) seem not to be applicable for the use as alcohol biomarkers because of their clear overlap between alcohol abusers and healthy controls.
Prelabour caesarean section and neurodevelopmental outcome at 4 and 12 months of age: an observational study
Authors: Zaigham Mehreen , Hellström-Westas Lena , Domellöf Magnus , Andersson Ola
Published: September 2020

Background

With prelabour caesarean section rates growing globally, there is direct and indirect evidence of negative cognitive outcomes in childhood. The objective of this study was to assess the short-term neurodevelopmental outcomes after prelabour caesarean section as compared to vaginally born infants.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, observational study of infants delivered by prelabour caesarean section at the Hospital of Halland, Halmstad, Sweden and compared their development with an historical group of infants born by non-instrumental vaginal delivery.

Results

Infants born by prelabour caesarean section were compared with a group of vaginally born infants. Follow-up assessments were performed at 4 and 12 months. Prelabour caesarean infants (n = 66) had significantly lower Ages and Stages Questionnaire, second edition (ASQ-II) scores in all domains (communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem solving and personal-social) at 4 months of age with an adjusted mean difference (95% CI) of − 20.7 (− 28.7 to − 12.6) in ASQ-II total score as compared to vaginally born infants (n = 352). These differences remained for gross-motor skills at the 12 month assessment, adjusted mean difference (95% CI) -4.7 (− 8.8 to − 0.7), n = 62 and 336.

Conclusions

Adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants born by prelabour caesarean section may be apparent already a few months after birth. Additional studies are warranted to explore this relationship further.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio is a prognostic factor for colon cancer: a propensity score analysis
Authors: Mazaki Junichi , Katsumata Kenji , Kasahara Kenta , Tago Tomoya , Wada Takahiro , Kuwabara Hiroshi , Enomoto Masanobu , Ishizaki Tetsuo , Nagakawa Yuichi , Tsuchida Akihiko
Published: September 2020

Background

A large number of patients suffer recurrence after curative resection, and mortality from colon cancer remains high. The role of systemic inflammatory response, as reflected by neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), in cancer recurrence and death has been increasingly recognized. This study aimed to analyze long-term oncologic outcomes of Stage II-III colon cancer to examine the prognostic value of NLR using a propensity score analysis.

Methods

A total of 375 patients with colon cancer underwent radical surgery between 2000 and 2014 at Tokyo Medical University Hospital. Long-term oncologic outcomes of these patients were evaluated according to NLR values. A cut-off NLR of 3.0 was used based on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS). An analysis of outcomes according to tumor sidedness was also performed.

Results

Patients with lower NLR values (“lower NLR group”) were more likely to have lymph node metastasis compared to those with higher NLR values (“higher NLR group”) before case matching. After case matching, clinical outcomes were similar between the two groups. There were no significant differences in 5-year OS and 5-year RFS rates between the two groups before case matching based on propensity scores. After case matching, 5-year OS rates were 94.5% in the lower NLR group (n = 135) and 87.0% in the higher NLR group (n = 135), showing a significant difference (p = 0.042). Five-year RFS rates were 87.8% in the lower NLR group and 77.9% in the higher NLR group, also showing a significant difference (p = 0.032). Among patients with left-sided colon cancer in the matched cohort, 5-year OS and 5-year RFS rates were 95.2 and 87.3% in the lower NLR group (n = 88), respectively, and 86.4 and 79.2% in the higher NLR group (n = 71), respectively, showing significant differences (p = 0.014 and p = 0.047, respectively).

Conclusions

The NLR is an important prognostic factor for advanced colon cancer, especially for left-sided colon cancer.
HOXD-AS1 facilitates cell migration and invasion as an oncogenic lncRNA by competitively binding to miR-877-3p and upregulating FGF2 in human cervical cancer
Authors: Chen Shaozheng , Li Kejun
Published: September 2020

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are dysregulated in multiple human cancers and they are highly involved in tumor progression. Previous studies have identified the oncogenic lncRNA HOXD cluster antisense RNA 1 (HOXD-AS1) in human cancers, while its roles in cervical cancer (CC) remain unclear. Herein we intended to characterize the implication of HOXD-AS1 in CC.

Methods

qRT-PCR was applied to examine the relative expression of HOXD-AS1 in CC tissues, cell lines and transfected cells. Wound healing and transwell assays were applied to detect cell migration and invasion alteration. The targeting relationship between miRNA and mRNA/lncRNA was determined by dual luciferase reporter, qRT-PCR and western blot assays.

Results

HOXD-AS1 was overexpressed in CC tissues and cell lines. Its higher level predicted worse prognosis of CC patients. SiRNA mediated knockdown of HOXD-AS1 repressed CC cell migration and invasion, and its overexpression did the opposite. Mechanistically, HOXD-AS1 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge miR-877-3p and led to upregulation of FGF2, a target of miR-877-3p. Importantly, either miR-877-3p overexpression or FGF2 inhibition could abolish the migration and invasion promotion induced by HOXD-AS1.

Conclusion

HOXD-AS1 functions as a tumor-promoting lncRNA via the miR-877-3p/FGF2 axis in CC. HOXD-AS1 might be a promising therapeutic target as well as a novel prognostic biomarker for CC.
Clinical effect of conbercept on improving diabetic macular ischemia by OCT angiography
Authors: Zhu Ziyi , Liang Youling , Yan Bin , Meng Zhishang , Long Kejun , Zhang Yiwei , Luo Jing
Published: September 2020

Background

Varying degrees of macular ischemia generally occur in diabetic retinopathy (DR). This study aims to evaluate the effect of conbercept with 3+ pro re nata (PRN) on macular perfusion status in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) and quantitatively assess changes in foveal avascular zone (FAZ) areas and capillary density in macular regions by applying optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods

Fifty patients were divided into ischemic (n = 31) and non-ischemic (n = 19) groups according to the presence of ischemia on OCTA at baseline. All patients received intravitreal injections of 0.5 mg of conbercept with 3+ PRN principle. The FAZ areas and macular vessel density measured using OCTA were evaluated at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment in both groups.

Results

At months 3 and 6, the FAZ area in the ischemic group changed from 0.510 ± 0.171 mm2 to 0.441 ± 0.158 mm2 then to 0.427 ± 0.153 mm2 (p = 0.003, p = 0.296); in the non-ischemic group, it remained stable (p = 0.269, p = 0.926). The superficial vessel density changed from 41.1 ± 4.1 to 42.5% ± 4.7% then to 42.6% ± 4.6% (p = 0.043, p = 0.812), and the deep vessel density changed from 40.7 ± 4.4 to 42.3% ± 3.6% then to 42.3% ± 4.7% (p = 0.072, p = 0.961) in the ischemic group. In the non-ischemic group, the superficial vessel density changed from 44.8 ± 3.2 to 46.0% ± 3.5% then to 45.7% ± 3.3% (p = 0.108, p = 0.666), whereas the deep vessel density changed from 43.6 ± 3.6 to 43.8% ± 3.2% then to 43.5% ± 4.5% (p = 0.882, p = 0.736). Reperfusion in macular nonperfusion areas was observed.

Conclusion

Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor treatment may have a positive effect on macular perfusion status. Furthermore, OCTA had advantages in quantifying and calculating blood flow index in the study of macular perfusion status.
Drusen characteristics of type 2 macular neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Ahmed Daniel , Stattin Martin , Haas Anna-Maria , Graf Alexandra , Krepler Katharina , Ansari-Shahrezaei Siamak
Published: September 2020

Background

Type 2 macular neovascularization (MNV) is supposed to be a rare condition in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The main purpose of this study was to assess accompanying factors of type 2 MNV in AMD.

Methods

Retrospective data analysis of eyes previously diagnosed with neovascular AMD in a tertiary eye care center (Medical Retina Unit, Rudolf Foundation Hospital, Vienna, Austria) between June 2008 and December 2017. Drusen subtypes, fibrosis, atrophy and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) of both eyes in patients with type 2 MNV lesions were categorized based on multimodal imaging.

Results

Type 2 MNV was diagnosed in 27 (3.2%) of 835 eyes (749 patients). Drusen characteristics in type 2 MNV were observed as followed: drusen < 63 μm in 2 eyes (7.4%), drusen ≥63 μm in 10 eyes (37%), subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDD) in 8 eyes (29.6%), cuticular drusen in 2 eye (7.4%) and no drusen were evident in 10 eyes (37%). Drusen distribution in 23 fellow eyes was detected as followed: drusen < 63 μm in 2 eyes (8.7%), drusen ≥63 μm in 9 eyes (39.1%), SDD in 5 eyes (21.7%), cuticular drusen in 1 eye (4.3%) and no drusen were evident in 9 eyes (39.1%). Mean SFCT was 140 ± 49 μm in affected eyes and 152 ± 41 μm in the fellow eyes. Patients with drusen or SDD were significantly younger (mean 70.88 ± 6.85, p = 0.04) than patients without deposits (mean 77.40 ± 5.74).

Conclusions

Type 2 MNV remains a rare entity in AMD. It was frequently seen in the absence of drusen, a hallmark of AMD. These findings contribute to the heterogeneity of phenotypes related to pure type 2 lesions.
Idiographic analyses of motivation and related processes in participants with schizophrenia following a therapeutic intervention for negative symptoms
Authors: Thonon Bénédicte , Van Aubel Evelyne , Lafit Ginette , Della Libera Clara , Larøi Frank
Published: September 2020

Background

Motivational negative symptoms hinder quality of life and daily functioning of individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. A recently developed intervention, Switch, has shown promising effects on negative symptoms and functional outcomes. Switch targets multiple cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes associated with motivation and goal directed behaviours. We aimed to investigate its effects on motivation and associated processes in a naturalistic setting, and to explore the dynamics between the processes.

Methods

We used a single case approach (n = 3), with a pre-post and follow-up assessment design, which also included ambulatory assessments (experience sampling method, ESM; and step count). We computed autoregressive lag 1 models to evaluate the effects of the intervention on daily motivation levels and related processes, descriptive pie-charts, and vector autoregressive modelling to reveal the dynamics of the processes over time.

Results

The intervention was beneficial for each participant according to traditional evaluations of motivational negative symptoms, apathy, daily functioning and quality of life. The effects on the ESM variables revealed distinct outcomes for each individual. The dynamics between the various processes differed between participants, and fluctuated within participants (when comparing baseline, intervention phase, and follow-up).

Conclusions

This study used an innovative approach to look at the effectiveness of an intervention. The intervention seems to lead to meaningful improvements in motivational negative symptoms and functional outcomes. The mechanisms of change need to be further investigated.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04325100. Registered 27 March 27, 2020 -retrospectively registered.

Reporting

Guidelines from the Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Non-randomized Designs (TREND) statement were followed.
The Chinese version of obsessive compulsive drug use scale: validation in outpatient methadone maintenance treatment program
Authors: Gong Hengfen , Zhang Yingying , Ren Qihuan , Zhou Zhirong , Zhou Huijing , Sun Xirong , Zhang Chencheng , Voon Valerie , Zhao Min , Yu Shunying
Published: September 2020

Background

The Obsessive Compulsive Drug Use Scale (OCDUS) measures the overall craving level within a period from a multidimensional perspective. However, no studies have addressed the validity of the new OCDUS factor structure, presented in 2016, in China. Additionally, there is lack of evidence on the interaction among risk factors for relapse. We aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the scores of the Chinese version of the OCDUS in patients with heroin dependence receiving methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). Further, we aimed to assess the correlations of the OCDUS scores with withdrawal symptoms, depression, anxiety, and nicotine dependence.

Methods

We enrolled 113 adults (age 32–64 years) and administered them with the OCDUS, Subjective Opioid Withdrawal Scale (SOWS), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND).

Results

Exploratory factor analysis identified a 3-dimensional component that included “Frequency of craving,” “Inference of heroin,” and “Control of heroin.” These factors showed acceptable internal consistency, adequate item-total correlations, and significant item-subscale correlations. There was no correlation between the OCUDS scores and age, education, duration of receiving MMT, and MMT dosages. However, there was a significant correlation between the OCDUS total scores and the SOWS, STAI, BDI-II, and FTND scores. The scores of all the subscales were associated with the SOWS scores; further, the scores of the first two subscales were associated with BDI-II scores while only the scores of the first subscale were associated with the FTND scores.

Conclusions

Our findings support the reliability and structure validity of the OCDUS scores. Heroin craving, withdrawal symptoms, negative emotions, and nicotine dependence, which are considered as risk factors for heroin relapse, might interact with each other. There is a need for further studies on the underlying mechanism of these clinical phenomena.
Risk factors associated with knife-crime in United Kingdom among young people aged 10–24 years: a systematic review
Authors: Haylock Sara , Boshari Talia , Alexander Emma C. , Kumar Ameeta , Manikam Logan , Pinder Richard
Published: September 2020

Background

Since 2013, the number of violent crimes and offences by sharp instruments have increased continually, following a previous decrease, with majority of cases occurring among young people and in London. There is limited understanding surrounding the drivers influencing this change in trends, with mostly American-based research identifying risk factors.

Methods

The aim of this review is to identify and synthesise evidence from a range of literature to identify risk factors associated with weapon-related crime, for young people (aged 10–24 years) within the UK.

A search strategy was generated to conduct a systematic search of published and grey literature within four databases (EMBASE, Medline, PsycINFO, and OpenGrey), identifying papers within a UK-context. Abstracts and full texts were screened by two independent reviewers to assess eligibility for inclusion, namely study focus in line with the objectives of the review. Weight of Evidence approach was utilised to assess paper quality, resulting in inclusion of 16 papers. Thematic analysis was conducted for studies to identity and categorise risk factors according to the WHO ecological model.

Results

No association was found between gender or ethnicity and youth violence, contrasting current understanding shown within media. Multiple research papers identified adverse childhood experiences and poor mental health as positively associated with youth and gang violence. It was suggested that community and societal risk factors, such as discrimination and economic inequality, were frequently linked to youth violence.

A small number of studies were included within the review as this is a growing field of research, which may have led to a constrained number of risk factors identified. Due to heterogeneity of studies, a meta-analysis could not be conducted. As many studies displayed positive results, publication bias may be present.

Conclusions

Several risk factors were identified, with evidence currently heterogeneous with minimal high-quality studies. However, findings highlight key areas for future research, including the link between poor mental health and knife-crime, and the trajectory into gangs. Risk factors should help identify high-risk individuals, targeting them within mitigation strategies to prevent involvement within crime. This should contribute to efforts aimed at reducing the rising crime rates within UK.

Systematic review registration number

CRD42019138545.

Registered at PROSPSERO: 16/08/2019.
Reproductive factors and lung cancer risk: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yin Xin , Zhu Zhiying , Hosgood H. Dean , Lan Qing , Seow Wei Jie
Published: September 2020

Background

A number of studies have investigated the association between reproductive factors and lung cancer risk, however findings are inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between female reproductive factors and lung cancer risk.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive systematic search to identify relevant and eligible studies published before 18th December 2019. Inter-study heterogeneity was assessed using the Q test and I2 statistic. Based on the heterogeneity of each reproductive factor, fixed or random effects models were used to calculate the summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses by study design, lung cancer subtypes, smoking status, and ethnicity were also performed.

Results

A total of 66 studies with 20 distinct reproductive factors were included in this meta-analysis. Comparing the highest and lowest categories (reference) of each reproductive factor, parity (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.72–0.96), menstrual cycle length (OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.65–0.96), and age at first birth (OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.74–0.98), were significantly associated with a lower risk of overall lung cancer. On the contrary, non-natural menopause was significantly associated with higher lung cancer risk (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.25–1.86). Among never-smokers, a significant negative association was found between parity and lung cancer risk. Both parity and non-natural menopause were statistically significant in case-control studies.

Conclusion

These results suggest that certain reproductive factors may be associated with lung cancer risk. Future studies should further validate the associations, and investigate the underlying mechanisms.
Work profiles of older employees in Germany-results from the lidA-cohort study
Authors: Hasselhorn Hans Martin , Stiller Michael , du Prel Jean-Baptist , Ebener Melanie
Published: September 2020

Background

This study investigates whether a typology of work exposure can be established among older workers in Germany. Work exposure comprises physical work, working time quality, work intensity, skills & discretion, social environment, leadership, continued education, earnings and work prospects.

Methods

Latent profile analysis was conducted on a representative sample of the socially insured workforce in Germany born in 1959 or 1965 (N = 6277). Seven year-prospective associations between the typology and work-related outcomes (physical and mental health, work ability and work-privacy-conflict) were investigated to establish the distinctness of the profiles.

Results

Five profiles were identified: “Poor Quality” (19%), “Relaxed Manuals” (30%), “Strained non-Manuals” (16%), “Smooth Running” (33%) and “High Flying” (3%). These profiles exhibited diverging patterns of association with the selected outcomes, thus representing qualitatively distinct subgroups of older workers in Germany.

Conclusions

We conclude that a typological approach may broaden the understanding of the ageing work force and the complex interplay of the overall work situation with outcomes of high individual and social relevance such as health, work ability and employment. The five work profiles identified in this study may constitute crucial clusters needed to reliably mirror today’s over-all work exposure patterns in the older work force in Germany. They may allow for the comprehensible monitoring of quality of work and personal life among the older work force during their last working years and their transition to retirement in current times of extending working lives.
Exploring spatial variations and factors associated with skilled birth attendant delivery in Ethiopia: geographically weighted regression and multilevel analysis
Authors: Teshale Achamyeleh Birhanu , Alem Adugnaw Zeleke , Yeshaw Yigizie , Kebede Sewnet Adem , Liyew Alemneh Mekuriaw , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn , Agegnehu Chilot Desta
Published: September 2020

Background

Skilled birth attendant (SBA) delivery is vital for the health of mothers and newborns, as most maternal and newborn deaths occur at the time of childbirth or immediately after birth. This problem becomes worsen in Ethiopia in which only 28% of women give birth with the help of SBA. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the spatial variations of SBA delivery and its associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods

A secondary analysis was carried out using the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. A total weighted sample of 11,023 women who had a live birth in the 5 years preceding the survey was included in the analysis. Arc-GIS software was used to explore the spatial distribution of SBA and a Bernoulli model was fitted using SaTScan software to identify significant clusters of non-SBA delivery. The Geographic Weighted Regression (GWR) was employed in modeling spatial relationships. Moreover, a multilevel binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with SBA delivery.

Results

In this study, SBA delivery had spatial variations across the country. The SaTScan spatial analysis identified the primary clusters’ spatial window in southeastern Oromia and almost the entire Somalia. The GWR analysis identified different predictors of non- SBA delivery across regions of Ethiopia. In the multilevel analysis, mothers having primary and above educational status, health insurance coverage, and mothers from households with higher wealth status had higher odds of SBA delivery. Being multi and grand multiparous, perception of distance from the health facility as big problem, rural residence, women residing in communities with medium and higher poverty level, and women residing in communities with higher childcare burden had lower odds of SBA delivery.

Conclusion

Skilled birth attendant delivery had spatial variations across the country. Areas with non-skilled birth attendant delivery and mothers who had no formal education, not health insured, mothers from poor households and communities, Primiparous women, mothers from remote areas, and mothers from communities with higher childcare burden could get special attention in terms of allocation of resources including skilled human power, and improved access to health facilities.
Low-income parents’ perceptions of the importance of a musical training programme for their children: a qualitative study
Authors: Ho Laurie Long Kwan , Li William Ho Cheung , Cheung Ankie Tan , Xia Wei , Ho Ka Yan , Chung Joyce Oi Kwan
Published: September 2020

Background

Despite clear evidence for the effectiveness of musical training in promoting psychological well-being among underprivileged children, parents’ perceptions of the importance of such training for their children remains unknown.

Methods

Of the parents of 171 underprivileged preschool children in Hong Kong who had participated in a free musical training programme, 25 were randomly selected and invited to participate in individual semi-structured interviews. Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological data analysis strategy was followed for analysing the data.

Results

The results showed that parents identified numerous benefits of the programme for their child, including increased happiness, improved confidence, positive behavioural changes, and enhanced parent-child relationships. At the beginning of the programme, parents tended to disregard the usefulness of musical training but gradually came to recognise its importance for their children’s psychological and social well-being. However, children were limited by their parents’ financial constraints from participating in musical training after the free programme ended.

Conclusions

These findings imply that existing policy may overlook the psychosocial needs of underprivileged children and suggest that more resources should be allocated to facilitate the continuity and sustainability of such a free programme for this vulnerable population.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02762786, registered on May 5, 2016.
Deaths from surgical conditions in Malawi - a randomised cross-sectional Nationwide household survey
Authors: Varela Carlos , Young Sven , Groen Reinou S. , Banza Leonard , Mkandawire Nyengo , Moen Bente Elisabeth , Viste Asgaut
Published: September 2020

Background

Relatively little is known about deaths from surgical conditions in low- and middle- income African countries. The prevalence of untreated surgical conditions in Malawi has previously been estimated at 35%, with 24% of the total deaths associated with untreated surgical conditions. In this study, we wished to analyse the causes of deaths related to surgical disease in Malawi and where the deaths took place; at or outside a health facility.

Methods

The study is based on data collected in a randomised multi-stage cross-sectional national household survey, which was carried out using the Surgeons Overseas Assessment of Surgical Need (SOSAS) tool. Randomisation was done on 48,233 settlements, using 55 villages from each district as data collection sites. Two to four households were randomly selected from each village. Two members from each household were interviewed. A total of 1479 households (2909 interviewees) across the whole country were visited as part of the survey.

Results

The survey data showed that in 2016, the total number of reported deaths from all causes was 616 in the 1479 households visited. Data related to cause of death were available for 558 persons (52.7% male). Surgical conditions accounted for 26.9% of these deaths. The conditions mostly associated with the 150 surgical deaths were body masses, injuries, and acute abdominal distension (24.3, 21.5 and 18.0% respectively). 12 women died from child delivery complications. Significantly more deaths from surgical conditions or injuries (55.3%) occurred outside a health facility compared to 43.6% of deaths from other medical conditions, (p = 0.0047). 82.3% of people that died sought formal health care and 12.9% visited a traditional healer additionally prior to their death. 17.7% received no health care at all. Of 150 deaths from potentially treatable surgical conditions, only 21.3% received surgical care.

Conclusion

In Malawi, a large proportion of deaths from possible surgical conditions occur outside a health facility. Conditions associated with surgical death were body masses, acute abdominal distention and injuries. These findings indicate an urgent need for scale up of surgical services at all health care levels in Malawi.
Prevalence and associated factors of prelacteal feeding among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units, North central Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Bayih Wubet Alebachew , Mekonen Demewoz Kefale , Kebede Solomon Demis
Published: September 2020

Background

Prelacteal feeding compromises the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, thereby increasing neonatal malnutrition, infection and mortality. About 26% of the Ethiopian neonates are given prelacteal feeds and nearly 48% of whom are attributed to Amhara region. Besides, prior Ethiopian studies have shown significance of the problem at different community settings in the country. However, the prevalence and associated factors of prelacteal feeding among neonatal admissions has been overlooked in the country in general and in the study area in particular. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of prelacteal feeding among neonatal admissions in the study setting.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 321 mother-neonate pairs admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Debre Tabor General Hospital between September 2018 and February 2019. Every fourth mother neonate pair was included to the study. Multivariable logistic regressions were fitted to find out adjusted odds ratios (AORs) of factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding.

Results

The prevalence of prelacteal feeding was 20.2% [95% CI: 15.31–26.75%]. Plain water was the most common prelacteal food (32.3%). Factors associated with prelacteal feeding include rural residence (AOR = 4.07, 95% CI: 1.30, 12.81), primiparity (AOR = 4.50, 95% CI: 1.30–12.81), less than four ANC visits (AOR = 4.71, 95% CI: 1.23–17.84), spousal accompany to ANC (AOR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.05–0.75), home delivery (AOR = 5.94, 95% CI: 1.80–19.67), having twin newborns (AOR = 6.69, 95% CI: 1.25, 35.91) and maternal belief on the purported advantages of prelacteal feeding (AOR = 2.74, 95% CI: 2.09–25.39).

Conclusion and recommendation

One out of five sick neonates was given prelacteal feeds. Twin neonates, home delivered neonates, rural neonates, neonates born to primiparous mothers, neonates delivered from mothers who had less than four ANC visits, neonates born to mothers who weren’t accompanied by their spouse during ANC and those born to mothers who believe on the purported advantages of prelacteal feeding had higher odds of receiving prelacteal feeds. Therefore, mothers of these vulnerable neonates should be provided with more emphasis about counseling of infant and young child feeding practice during their stay at NICU.
Implant contamination as a cause of surgical site infection in spinal surgery: are single-use implants a reasonable solution? – a systematic review
Authors: Schömig Friederike , Perka Carsten , Pumberger Matthias , Ascherl Rudolf
Published: September 2020

Background

In spine surgery, surgical site infection (SSI) is one of the main perioperative complications and is associated with a higher patient morbidity and longer patient hospitalization. Most factors associated with SSI are connected with asepsis during the surgical procedure and thus with contamination of implants and instruments used which can be caused by pre- and intraoperative factors. In this systematic review we evaluate the current literature on these causes and discuss possible solutions to avoid implant and instrument contamination.

Methods

A systematic literature search of PubMed addressing implant, instrument and tray contamination in orthopaedic and spinal surgery from 2001 to 2019 was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. All studies regarding implant and instrument contamination in orthopaedic surgery published in English language were included.

Results

Thirty-five studies were eligible for inclusion and were divided into pre- and intraoperative causes for implant and instrument contamination. Multiple studies showed that reprocessing of medical devices for surgery may be insufficient and lead to surgical site contamination. Regarding intraoperative causes, contamination of gloves and gowns as well as contamination via air are the most striking factors contributing to microbial contamination.

Conclusions

Our systematic literature review shows that multiple factors can lead to instrument or implant contamination. Intraoperative causes of contamination can be avoided by implementing behavior such as changing gloves right before handling an implant and reducing the instruments’ intraoperative exposure to air. In avoidance of preoperative contamination, there still is a lack of convincing evidence for the use of single-use implants in orthopaedic surgery.