bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collaborative writing and process writing approach: The effect and students perception
Authors: Winarti  , Cahyono Bambang Yudi
Published: November 2020

Over the last few years, the researchers and practitioners have acknowledged the potential benefits attained from collaborative writing activity which was based on the well- known theories of social constructivist and output hypothesis. Grounding from these theories, this study examined the collaborative writing combined with writing process approach to find out the effect of the task on students' ability in writing an explanation essay and students perception about the task. Two intact classes involving 30 students in each class participated in this study. One class as the experimental group completed the writing task using process writing in pairs while the other class completed the task individually. The students in experimental group were given a questionnaire right after the treatment to pool their views on the task. Post-test by administering the writing test was conducted to see the effect of the treatment. Data analysis revealed that students employing collaborative writing using process writing had better writing ability than students working individually. It was also found that most students felt that they gained many benefits from doing collaborative writing. These findings suggested that collaborative writing combined with process writing can be implemented in EFL writing pedagogy to improve students' writing ability.

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Collaborative writing has the positive effect on the overall writing ability and on each element of writing skill.2. Collaborative writing not only encouraged the students to share the knowledge they had to other members but also it gave them remarkable input they needed in improving thewriting skill.
Effect of teacher and peer written corrective feedback on writing components in EFL classrooms
Authors: Elfiyanto Sonny , Fukazawa Seiji
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to investigate the impact of teacher and peer written corrective feedback (WCF) on Indonesian senior high school students’ writing performance. A total of 71 Indonesian senior high school students from Grade X participated in this study; 36 were provided teacher WCF and 35 peers WCF. To collect and data, the participants were asked to write a legend essay. Using qualitative data analysis, we aimed to reveal the effectiveness of teacher and peer WCF in improving students’ writing performance. Adapted scoring rubric was employed to measure students’ overall writing performance, and competencies in relation to writing components such as content, organization, grammar, vocabulary, and mechanics. The results revealed that peer WCF can better enhance students’ writing abilities compared to teacher WCF. Furthermore, students who received teacher WCF showed substantial improvement in performance relating to all writing components except mechanics. In contrast, peer WCF enhanced students’ organization and vocabulary related performance. HIGHLIGHTS: Peer WCF is more effective than teacher WCF in enhancing Indonesian senior high school students’ writing performance, especially in writing legend texts. Teacher WCF helped significantly improve four components of writing competence: content, organization, vocabulary, and language, while peer WCF positively impacted organization and vocabulary components. Combining both teacher and peer WCF could be more beneficial in improving students’ writing achievement than either type of WCF alone.
Video subtitle to teach listening skill of junior high school students
Authors: Mustofa Mutmainnah , Sari Ani Sukma
Published: November 2020

A considerable interest on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been growing in the field of English language teaching within a very short period of time. Indeed, ICT is such an essential part in the respective field, in the sense that its progress allows the development of language teaching and learning process through its innovations. This study proposes using video caption as a medium to teach listening skill through integrating the use of ICT with the teaching process. An example of the innovation is the creation of teaching media supported by a software or application called . A well-known subtitle editing program, offers source tools for creating and modifying subtitle in a video. This paper presents the procedures and steps to design video subtitle by using application. Teachers can use it as a reference in designing a teaching media using a video subtitling application which is aimed to make the students more motivated to learn English instructions. Last but not least, it is expected that learning with video caption can be an alternative and beneficial media for teaching, in particular, listening skill.
Mechanical Force System of Double Key Loop With Finite Element Analysis 
Authors: Liu Jiali , Zhang Duanqiang , Xu Linyu , Cai Senxin , Guo Jinquan , Chen Jiang , Su Jiehua
Published: November 2020

Background: The mechanics of double key loop (DKL) was not well defined and this finite element study was designed to explore its force system.Methods: Simplified 3-dimensional finite element model of single and double key loops with archwire between lateral incisor and second premolar was established in Ansys Workbench. Activation in Type-1 (retraction at distal end), Type-2 (retraction at distal key) and Type-3 (Type-2 plus ligation between keys) were simulated. The vertical force, load/deflection ratio and moment/force ratio of stainless steel and TMA loops were calculated and compared.Results: Double key loop generated about 40% force of single key loop. Type-2 loading of DKL showed higher L/D ratio than in Type-1 loading with similar M/F ratio. Type-3 loading of DKL showed the highest M/F ratio with similar L/D ratio as single key loop. The M/F ratio in Type-3 loading increased with the decrease of retraction force. DKL of TMA produced about 40% of force and moment compared to those of SS in all loading types. When activated at equal distance bellow 1mm, the M/F ratio of SS and TMA DKL with equal preactivation angle were almost the same. Conclusion: M/F ratio on anterior teeth increases with preactivation angle and deactivation of DKL. M/F ratio at certain distance of activation depends mainly on preactivation angle instead of wire material. TMA is recommended as substitute of SS in DKL for lower magnitude of force.
Risky Sexual Behaviour among Male Immigration and Correctional Personnel in Kano State, Nigeria, 2018
Authors: Azeez Nureni , Usman Aishat Bukola , Stephen Adebowale Ayo , Jibo Abubakar Muhammad , Iliyasu Zubairu
Published: November 2020

Background Worldwide, uniformed personnel have been recognized as a population at high risk for sexually transmitted infections because of their high mobility, power differentials and affluence. However, limited studies have been conducted on risky sexual behaviour (RSB) among male uniformed personnel in Nigeria. We conducted this study to determine the prevalence and identify the predictors of RSB among male immigration and correctional personnel in Kano State.Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among 306 male immigration and correctional personnel using multi-stage sampling technique. A pre-tested self-administered structured questionnaire containing sociodemographic and variables associated with RSB was used for data collection. Indicators of RSB included transactional sexual intercourse, sexual intercourse with casual acquaintances and multiple non-regular sexual partners over the last 12 months. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and logistic regression (α=0.05).Results Mean age of the respondents in the immigration and correctional services was 37.9±9.3 and 38.0±8.1 years respectively. Overall prevalence of RSB was 15.1% (9.2% and 20.9% among correctional and immigration workers respectively). The identified predictors of RSB were service group, marital status and attending club house prior to sexual intercourse. The likelihood of RSB was lower among the correctional personnel (aOR=0.38, CI=0.17-0.80) than the immigration officers. Being married is protective of RSB (aOR=0.38, CI=0.18-0.81) while attending club house prior to sexual intercourse predisposes the uniform personnel to RSB (aOR=3.90, CI=1.30-11.68). Conclusions Risky sexual behaviour was highly prevalent among the investigated uniform men but was higher among immigration officers than the correctional personnel.
Characterization of interactions between the soybean plasma membrane- intrinsic proteins GmPIP1s and GmPIP2s responding to salt stress
Authors: Qi Weicong , Liu Jia , Zhang Dayong , Lu Haiying , Shao Hongbo , Wan Qun , Huang Yihong
Published: November 2020

Background: Salt tolerance is a key trait in soybean breeding and plant responses to salt stress include physiological and biochemical changes that affect the movement of water across the plasma membrane. In this study, we report the interactions of a set of aquaporins, soybean (Glycine max) plasma membrane-intrinsic proteins (GmPIPs), in response to salt stress. Results: GmPIP1;5 and GmPIP1;6 formed hetero-tetramers with GmPIP2;4, GmPIP2;6, GmPIP2;8, GmPIP2;9, GmPIP2;11, and GmPIP2;13. We detected interactions between GmPIP1;6 and GmPIP1;7, but not between GmPIP1;6 and GmPIP1;5. Furthermore, GmPIP2;9 formed homo-tetramers, and this interaction was strengthened under salt and osmotic stress. Expression analysis indicated complex and unique responses to salt stress depending on the duration of the stress. For example, GmPIP2;8, encoding one of the heteromer-forming PIP proteins, was highly up-regulated under early salt stress.Conclusions: Our study highlights the vital role of hetero- and homo-tetramers, in salt tolerance; and improves understanding of the mechanisms by which soybean aquaporin isoforms respond to abiotic stress.
A China Healthy Diet Index-based evaluation of dietary quality among pregnant women in coastal areas across trimesters and residential areas
Authors: Wang Zhengyuan , Shen Jiaying , Wu Yiwen , Cui Xueying , Song Qi , Shi Zehuan , Jin Wei , Guo Changyi , Wu Chunfeng , Zang Jiajie
Published: November 2020

Background: Good dietary quality among pregnant women is critical for maternal and fetal health. Comprehensive assessments of large representative samples are lacking. Methods: Pregnant women were enrolled using a multistage, stratified, random-sampling method in Shanghai. We used a personal food frequency questionnaire and a household condiment weighing method for dietary assessments. Participants’ scores on the China Healthy Diet Index (CHDI) were analyzed to evaluate diet quality.Results: Significant differences in the median daily intake of almost all food types were found across all trimesters, and all food types were found across all residential areas (urban, suburban and rural). Significant differences were found in the median total CHDI scores across trimesters, and on all CHID components, except whole grains, dry beans and tubers, across all residential areas; 13.7% of participants scored below 60 points, indicating “poor” dietary quality. Significant differences in CHDI scores were found across trimesters and residential areas. Participants in early and middle pregnancy had lower scores than those in late pregnancy. Women in urban areas had higher scores than those in suburban and rural areas.Conclusions: Pregnant women living in coastal areas of China suffer from an unbalanced diet of average quality. Pregnant women in the early and middle stages of pregnancy had worse scores than those in the late stage, while suburban and rural women had worse scores than urban women.
A Multidisciplinary Approach in Prenatal Diagnosis of TSC With Cardiac Rhabdomyoma as the Initial Symptom
Authors: Qi Yiming , Ding Hongke , Huang Yanlin , Zeng Yukun , Yu Lihua , Liu Ling , Zhang Yan , Yin Aihua
Published: November 2020

The long-term prognosis of fetus with cardiac rhabdomyoma (CR) depends on the correlation with tuberous sclerosis complex(TSC). Recent years, numerous variations of uncertain significance (VUS) of TSC genes produced by high-throughput sequencing makes counseling challenging, studies until now tend to sidestep the tricky topics. Here, we integrated detailed parental phenotype, echocardiography, neuro MRI and genetic information to conduct a comprehensive evaluation for 61 CR fetuses. As a result, multiple CRs and cerebral lesions appeared in 90% and 80% respectively in fetuses with pathogenic(P)/likely pathogenic(LP) TSC1/TSC2 variation. 85.7% of the live-born with P/LP presented TSC-associated signs. 85.7% VUS without nervous findings had good prognosis. Genetic evidence and cerebral MRI findings are the most sensitive index to assess long-term prognosis, which complement and confirm each other for a TSC diagnosis. 68.9% fetuses with CR could benefit from this multidisciplinary approach, which turned to be potentially clinically actionable with precise clinical/genetic diagnosis or had a foreseeable outcome. Our practice provides a practical and feasible solution for perinatal management and prognostic guidance for fetuses with CR.
Dental practice closure during COVID-19 and associated professional, practice and structural determinants: a multi-country survey
Authors: Hamed Hams , Atteya Sara M , Ihab Merna , Nyan Myat , Maharani Diah Ayu , Rahardjo Anton , Shaath Mohammed , Aboalshamat Khalid , Butool Sayda , Shamala Anas , Baig Lubna , Tantawi Maha El
Published: November 2020

Background: The outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in China has influenced every aspect of life worldwide. Due to the characteristics of dental settings, the risk of cross-infection is high between dental practitioners and patients and dentists may develop severe anxiety about the current pandemic. In addition, the limited provision of services and closure of dental practices raised concerns among dental professionals about the financial consequences of this closure. This study assessed the frequency of dental practice closure in several countries, the factors associated with this closure and whether closure and associated factors differed between private and non-private sectors.Methods: From April to May 2020, an electronic survey was sent to dentists in several countries. The survey assessed professional factors, practice factors and country-level structural factors. Multilevel logistic regression was used to assess the association between practice closure and these factors. Effect modification by type of sector was also assessed. Results: Dentists (n= 3243) participated from 29 countries. The majority (75.9%) reported practice closure with significantly higher percentage in the private sector than the non-private sector. Pandemic- related fears were associated with significantly higher likelihood of practice closure in private (OR= 1.54, 95%CI= 1.24, 1.92) and non-private sectors (OR= 1.38, 95%CI= 1.04, 1.82). Dentists in non-private, governmental sector (OR= 0.54, 95%CI= 0.31, 0.94), those in rural areas (OR= 0.58, 95%CI= 0.42, 0.81) and those in hospitals (overall OR= 0.60, 95%CI= 0.36, 0.99) reported low likelihood of closure. High likelihood of closure was reported by those in academia (OR= 2.13, 95%CI= 1.23, 3.71). More hospital beds at country-level were associated with lower likelihood of closure in the non-private sector (OR= 0.65, 95%CI= 0.46, 0.91). Private sector dentists in high income countries (HICs) reported less closure than in non-HICs (OR= 0.55, 95%= 0.15, 1.93).Conclusions: Most dentists reported practice closure because of COVID-19 with greater impact in the private than non-private sectors. Closure was associated with factors at professional, practice, and country-level.
Comparison of Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes between Respiratory s yncytial Virus and Influenza-related Pneumonia in China from 2013 to 2019
Authors: Chen Liang , Han Xiudi , Li YanLi , Zhang Chunxiao , Xing Xiqian
Published: November 2020

Background: Differences in the clinical features and outcomes between syncytial virus-related (RSV-p) and influenza-related pneumonia (Flu-p) are largely unknown. We aimed to compare clinical characteristics and severity between adults with the two conditions . Methods: A total of 127 patients with RSV-p, 693 patients with influenza A-related pneumonia (FluA-p) and 386 patients with influenza B-related pneumonia (FluB-p) were retrospectively reviewed from 2013 through 2019 in five teaching hospitals in China. Results: A multivariate logistic regression model indicated that age ≥ 50 years, cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, solid malignant tumor, nasal congestion, myalgia, sputum production, respiratory rates ≥ 30 beats/min, lymphocytes < 0.8×109/L and blood albumin < 35 g/L were predictors that differentiated RSV-p from Flu-p. After adjusting for confounders, a multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed that, relative to RSV-p, FluA-p (OR 2.313 , 95% CI 1.377 - 3.885, p = 0.002) incurred an increased risk for severe outcomes, including invasive ventilation, ICU admission, and 30-day mortality. FluB-p (OR 1.630 , 95% CI 0.958 - 2.741, p = 0.071) was not associated with increased risk. Conclusions: The severity of RSV-p was less than that of FluA-p, but was comparable to FluB-p. Some clinical variables were useful for discriminating RSV-p from Flu-p.
WITHDRAWN: The differentiation between solitary pulmonary inflammatory lesion and solitary cancer using gemstone spectral imaging (GSI): the correlation with lesion size
Authors: Zhu Liuhong , Wang Funan , Wang Yanwei , Cheng Qihua , Zhou Jianjun
Published: November 2020

Background: There were still nonnegligible overlaps between lung inflammatory and malignant lesions in morphologic appearance and enhancement pattern using conventional computed tomography (CT) especially when the lesion size was smaller than 3cm, which made misdiagnosis often happen in clinical practice. The study was to verify whether spectral CT parameters can differentiate solitary lung cancer from solitary inflammatory lesions or not, and to find the correlation between GSI parameters and lesion size. Methods: 102 patients with solitary inflammatory or lung cancer lesions underwent enhanced CT scans with GSI mode. While total of 78 ROIs (region of interest) were finally collected and divided into inflammatory group (group I: ≤3cm, IA; >3cm, IB) and cancer group (group II:≤3cm, IIA; >3cm, IIB) according to their maximum diameter (Dmax). CT values measured on 40keV and 70 keV monochromatic images (HU40kev , HU70kev), effective atomic number (Zeff) , iodine concentration (IC), normalized IC (NIC) and slopes of spectral curve (λ30, λ40) were calculated. Intergroup and intragroup comparisons were made using Mann-Whitney U test, and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis were done. Correlation analysis was used to find the relationship between Dmax and GSI parameters. Results: NIC and λ30 under venous phase could distinguish general solitary inflammatory from cancer group. No significant correlation was found between GSI parameters and Dmax in inflammatory group, while negative correlations were found between them in cancer group. The GSI parameters (except HU70kev) of group IIA were significantly higher than those of group IIB. When Dmax was larger than 3cm, there were significant differences between solitary inflammatory group and cancer group in HU40kev, IC, NIC, λ30 and λ40, under both AP and VP, while the AUC for λ30 under VP was largest, and the corresponding sensitivity and specificity were 96.32% and 85.71% respectively. However, only the HU40kev and HU70kev under arterial phase of IIA were significantly higher than those of IA.Conclusions: Most of quantitative parameters of GSI can contribute to the differentiation between solitary lung cancer from solitary inflammatory lesions when Dmax is larger than 3cm, while only few parameters are meaningful when Dmax is smaller than 3cm .
Opposite Regulation of F508del-CFTR Biogenesis by Four Poly-Lysine Ubiquitin Chains
Authors: Wu Qingtian , Henri Yonta Tiakouang , Yao Ruixue , Ma Xuemei , Liu Lei , Vinye Nana Noutchie , Liang Xiubin , Zhao Gang , Hou Xia
Published: November 2020

Background: As a misfolding protein, more than 99% of F508del-CFTR (F508del) is degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome system before its maturation, which results in almost no membrane expression of CFTR and thereby no chloride secretion across epithelial cells of cystic fibrosis patients. The conjugation of ubiquitin chains to the protein substrates is necessary for ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation. Ubiquitin contains seven lysine (K) residues (K6, K11, K27, K29, K33, K48, and K63), all of them can be conjugated one to another forming poly-ubiquitin chains on substrates by mixing together or by only one type of lysine that provides sorting signals for different pathways. Results: Here we report that four lysine linked poly-Ub chains (LLPUCs) were involved in F508del biogenesis: two LLPUCs linked by K11 or K48 of Ub facilitated F508del degradation; whereas the other two linked by K63 and K33 of Ub protected F508del from degradation. LLPUC K11 is more potent for F508del degradation than K48. Moreover, E3 ligase CHIP and RNF5 catalyzed LLPUCs K48 formation and RNF5 also catalyzed LLPUC K11 formation on F508del. Importantly, Those LLPUCs provide F508del with different affinities to the proteasomal shuttle protein (Rad23a) and the proteasomal receptors (Adrm1 and S5a), offering a mechanistic insight of differential regulation F508del different by different LLPUCs. Conclusions: F508del utilizes four specific lysine-linked poly Ub chains and during its biogenesis for opposite destiny through different identification by proteasomal shuttle protein or receptors. These findings provide new insights to understand the CF pathogenesis and are expected to facilitate the development of therapies for this devastating disease.
Overestimated, still less than competent: A cross-sectional study concerning emergency department registered nurses’ disaster preparedness
Authors: Murphy Jason Patrick , Kurland Lisa , Rådestad Monica , Magnusson Sofia , Ringqvist Tove , Rüter Anders
Published: November 2020

BackgroundMajor incidents continue to pose a threat to health care systems by overwhelming them with a sudden surge of patients. A major factor impacting a hospital's surge capacity is the skills, abilities, and knowledge of emergency department registered nurses. The level of disaster nursing competency they possess affects patient safety and outcome. ED RNs' ability to accurately assess their competency and knowledge is imperative for mitigating the effect of major incidents. ED RN’s perception of overall disaster preparedness has not been thoroughly addressed. The aim of this study was to assess emergency department registered nurses' self-perceived disaster preparedness.MethodThe study was a cross-sectional study. A self-assessment questionnaire based on the results of a study identifying specific disaster nursing competencies for emergency department registered nurses was distributed to all emergency department registered nurses at six participating hospitals between January 10th to February 19th of 2019. A five-point Likert-type scale was used to assess competency.ResultsEmergency department registered nurses’ disaster preparedness according to the Total Disaster Competency mean, was low. Furthermore, the results indicate that ED RNs’ overestimate their disaster nursing competency when compared to the Total Disaster Competency score. When asked to estimate their overall the mean was ”less than competent” yet higher than the Total Disaster Competency score. Knowledge gaps concerning disaster preparedness plans were also identified. Additionally, this study identified factors associated with disaster preparedness and self-assessment ability.Conclusion ED RNs’ overestimate their disaster preparedness and may lack self-awareness concerning their disaster competencies. However, ED RNs with formal disaster education appeared to have better insight concerning their preparedness. Clinical experiences, higher levels of education, and training were positively associated with preparedness. A lack of self-awareness may negatively impact patient outcomes during a major incident.
One out of three bystanders of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests suffers pathological psychological processing a few weeks after the incident- results from a systematic telephone interview
Authors: Brinkrolf Peter , Metelmann Bibiana , Metelmann Camilla , Baumgarten Mina , Scharte Carolin , Zarbock Alexander , Hahnenkamp Klaus , Bohn Andreas
Published: November 2020

BackgroundWitnessing an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a traumatic experience. It is known, that some bystanders struggle with coping of these events. The impact of (part-) performing CPR vs. passive observing OHCA and of being a stranger as bystander vs. family and friends of the patient is still unknown.MethodsBetween December 2014 and April 2016 bystanders, who witnessed an OHCA of an adult patient (>18 years) were interviewed by telephone a few weeks after the event. In a semi-standardized questionnaire the paramount emotion at the time of the interview was asked. The statements given in response to open questions were rated into the categories “signs of pathological psychological processing”, “physiological psychological processing” and “good mental constitution” by independent researchers.ResultsObserving the exclusion criteria 89 telephone interviews could be included in the analyses. In 27 out of 89 cases (30.3%) signs of pathological psychological processing could be detected. Signs of pathological psychological processing were significantly less in bystanders, who received instructions by the dispatcher or autonomously performed CPR. No statistical significant differences in the psychological processing could be shown for gender, age, relationship to the patient, current employment in the health sector, location of cardiac arrest or number of additional bystanders.ConclusionsOne out of three bystanders of OHCA suffers sings of pathological psychological processing. This was independent of age, gender and relationship of the bystander to the patient. Bystanders who performed CPR with or without receiving instructions had a lower risk.
SIRT6 Promotes Osteogenic Differentiation of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Through Activating Notch Signaling Via Antagonizing DNMT1
Authors: JIA BO , Chen Jun , Wang Qin , Sun Xiang , Han Jiusong , Guastaldi Fernando , Xiang Shijian , He Yan , Ye Qinsong
Published: November 2020

Background: Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are increasingly accepted as one of ideal seed cells for regenerative medicine for its potential to differentiate into multiple cell types, including osteogenic lineages. Sirtuin proteins 6 (SIRT6) is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent deacetylase and plays important roles in a variety of biological processes, including cell differentiation.Methods: Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, ALP staining, and Alizarin Red Staining was performed to explore the roles of SIRT6 in the osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs. Western blot , RT-qPCR,Luciferase reporter assay and Co-Immunoprecipitation assay were applied to confirm the relationship between of Sirt6, DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and NOTCHs.Results: SIRT6 leads to increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, enhanced mineralization and upregulated expression of osteogenic-related genes of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) in vitro and in vivo. Further mechanistic studies showed that SIRT6 regulated osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs depending on its deacetylase activity. SIRT6 selectively prevents abnormal DNA methylation of NOTCH1, NOTCH2 in hADSCs by antagonizing DNMT1. DNMT1 expression was suppressed in SIRT6 overexpression hADSCs, and knockdown partially rescued abnormal DNA methylation of NOTCH1 and NOTCH2, leading to the increased capable of osteogenic differentiation. Conculsions: SIRT6 promotes the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs.The SIRT6 protein suppresses DNMT level via physical interaction with the DNMT1 protein, deacetylating and destabilizing DNMT1 protein,leading the activation of NOTCH1 and NOTCH2.
Association of Whole Blood Copper, Magnesium and Zinc Levels with Metabolic Syndrome Components in 6–12-Year-Old Rural Chinese Children: 2010–2012 China National Nutrition and Health Survey
Authors: Zhang Huidi , Man Qingqing , Song Pengkun , Li Siran , Liu Xiaobing , Wang Lijuan , Li Yuqian , Yang Lichen
Published: November 2020

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major public health problem in the world and some studies indicated that it is significantly associated with the future risk of cardiovascular disease. There is also a certain prevalence of Mets in childhood and shows a trend of younger age. Previous studies on the relationship between elements and MetS were mostly seen in adults with single element analysis, and reports on children and the combined effects of multiple elements were very limited. With the data form 2010–2012 China National Nutrition and Health Survey, we aim to investigate the association between whole blood Cu, Mg and Zn in both single and combined effects and MetS components in 6–12-year-old rural Chinese children.Methods: A total of 911 children (51.2% male, 48.7% female) aged 6–12 years were enrolled. Basic characteristics, metals and MetS component parameters were collected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the independent relationship between metals and MetS components.Results: Copper was positively associated with elevated waist (OR=2.00, 1.18–3.28) and negatively associated with elevated TG (OR=0.33, 0.16-0.65). When high Cu combined with Zn, the association with elevated waist and elevated TG both disappeared. In the combination of Cu and Mg, high Cu with high Mg had a positive association with elevated waist (OR=2.03, 1.26-3.27) and high Cu with low Mg had a negative asscoiation with elevated TG (OR=0.40, 0.16-0.95). Conclusions: Our study suggested that both the single and combined effects of Cu, Mg and Zn were associated with MetS components, especially in elevated waist and TG. And the comprehensive analysis of multiple elements was different from the results of single element analysis, which provide new avenues for the early screening of MetS. Additional research is needed to confirm these findings in other populations.
Preventable Multiple High-Risk Birth Behaviour and Infant Survival in Nigeria
Authors: Salawu Mobolaji Modinat , Afolabi Rotimi Felix , Gbadebo Babatunde Makinde , Salawu Adetokunbo Taophic , Fagbamigbe Adeniyi Francis , Adebowale Ayo Stephen
Published: November 2020

Background Globally, infant mortality has reduced considerably but has remained unacceptably high in sub-Saharan Africa, especially Nigeria where infant mortality rate is 67/1000 live births. To facilitate infant mortality reduction in Nigeria, an understanding of the synergistic effect of bio-demographic characteristics of mothers known as High Risk Birth Behaviours (HrBBs) is important. We therefore investigated the influence of HrBBs on infant survival in Nigeria.MethodsThis cross-sectional study design utilized data from the 2018 round of Nigerian Demographic Health Survey. The study participants were a representative sample of women of reproductive age (n=21350) who had given birth within the 5 years preceding the survey. HrBBs was measured through integration of information on maternal age at child’s birth, parity, and preceding birth interval with respect to the most recent child. The HrBBs was categorized as none, single and multiple. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard model (α =0.05). Results The mean age of the women was 29.7 ± 7.2 and 4.1% had experienced infant death. Infant mortality was highest among women with multiple HrBBs (5.1%). Being a male, having small size at birth, failure to receive tetanus injection, non-use of contraceptives and living in the core-north (North West and North East) predisposed children to higher risk of dying before 12 months of age. The hazard ratio of infant mortality was significantly higher among infants of mothers in multiple HrBBs category (aHR=1.67; CI: 1.33-2.09) compared to their counterparts with no HrBBs. Conclusion Multiple HrBBs increase the chances of dying among infants in Nigeria. Screening women for HrBBs for special health attention during pregnancy, birth and postnatal period will alleviate infant death in Nigeria.
BLV-CoCoMo-qPCR-3: Improved BLV-CoCoMo-qPCR for Bovine Leukemia Virus Detection by Mixing Probes Targeting all BLV Variants
Authors: Borjigin Liushiqi , Yoneyama Shuji , Saito Susumu , Meripet Polat , Inokuma Michihito , Shinozaki Yasuo , Tanaka Naoko , Yamanaka Risa , Yasui Anna , Mimura Munehito , Murakami Hironobu , Takeshima Shin-nosuke , Aida Yoko
Published: November 2020

Background: The bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is the causative agent of enzootic bovine leukosis, the most common neoplastic disease in cattle. The proviral load (PVL) is an important index for estimating disease progression. Previously, we developed a quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay to measure the PVL of BLV using coordination of common motif (CoCoMo) degenerate primers that can amplify all known BLV strains. However, mutations, which potentially affect the detection ability, have been recently reported in the probe sequences of the long terminal regions (LTRs) of the BLV-CoCoMo-qPCR-2 assay. Here, we developed a new strategy to overcome these newly generated mutations located in the probe regions of this assay.Methods: We collected genomic DNA from 887 cows from 27 BLV-positive farms, using a nationwide survey conducted in 2011 and 2017 in Japan. BLV variants were investigated by quantifying the provirus using BLV-CoCoMo-qPCR-2 targeting the BLV LTR gene and the TaKaRa Cycleave PCR system targeting the BLV tax gene. Additionally, we sequenced the partial BLV LTR gene. The modified probes were designed to completely match the three BLV variants identified here, and the modified assay was established using mixed probes.Results: We found four single mutations within the probe region of the original BLV-CoCoMo-qPCR-2 assay, three of which negatively affected its sensitivity. Furthermore, we examined the optimum ratio of the concentration to be mixed with the wild type and three new BLV TaqMan probes were designed here using genomic DNAs extracted from cattle infected with the wild-type BLV strain and cattle infected with variants. Hence, we successfully established an improved BLV-CoCoMo-qPCR-3 assay that uses mixed probes corresponding to all three BLV variants. Conclusions: To overcome the loss of assay sensitivity due to newly emerging variants, we have established the BLV-CoCoMo-qPCR-3 assay that could amplify all BLV strains using newly designed mixed probes in addition to degenerate primers that were previously designed in our original assay. Our proposed method maintained the original sensitivity and reproducibility and can detect all mutant strains; thus, it is a useful tool to prevent the spread of BLV infections, especially those caused by newly emerging variants.
Mid- to Long-Term Follow-up Outcomes of One-Stage Posterior Lumbosacral or Lumbopelvic Fixation in the Management of Lumbosacral Junction Tuberculosis in Adults
Authors: Xu Zhenchao , Zhang Zhen , Chen Gang , Wang Xiyang
Published: November 2020

Background: This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the mid- to long-term outcomes of surgical management of lumbosacral junction tuberculosis in adults. Methods: A total of 38 adult patients were treated by one-stage posterior debridement, interbody fusion, lumbosacral or lumbopelvic fixation, and postural drainage. All cases were followed up for at least five years. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were gathered and analyzed.Results: All patients achieved clinical cure at the last follow-up. Erythrocyte sedimentation rates decreased to normal levels within three months postoperatively. Postoperative scores measuring pain (visual analog scale), neurological status (Japanese Orthopedic Association score), and patient quality of life (Oswestry Disability Index) all significantly improved compared to preoperative values. Patient-reported outcomes as measured by Kirkaldy-Willis criteria were excellent in 21 cases, good in 16 cases, and fair in 1 case; there were no poor outcomes. Lumbosacral angle increased from the preoperative values of 21.7° ± 1.8° to the postoperative values of 26.4° ± 1.4°, with an angle loss of 1.2° ± 0.7° at the last follow-up. Bone fusion occurred on average 12.8 ± 1.9 months after surgery. No nonunion, pseudarthrosis, loosening or fracture of instruments occurred at the last follow-up.Conclusion: For patients with lumbosacral junction TB, a treatment protocol including one-stage posterior debridement, interbody fusion, lumbosacral or lumbopelvic fixation, and postural drainage according to the severity of sacral destruction is a relatively nontraumatic and highly safe procedure. It can be used to reconstruct lumbosacral or lumbopelvic stability and facilitate the healing of TB.
Bibliometric Evaluation and Hot Spot Analysis of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Fan YiNuo , Zhang Haitao , Guan Zhiying , Li Weifeng , Li Zhongfeng , He Wei , Chen Zhenqiu
Published: November 2020

Purpose: To analyze the research development process and research hotspots of DDH in order to guide the future research direction.Methods: Using the Web of Science database to search the relevant English literatures of DDH from 1994 to May 31,2020 and analyze them with Bibliometric analysis methods. The statistics and the analysis of the collected publications are for the sake of hierarchical refinement and quality assessment of the publications of different countries, authors, institutions, funding agencies, and journals. Using the VOS viewer software for visual conversion and researching direction and important fields of DDH simultaneously.Results: With a total of 2156 articles, the numbers of DDH published articles is increasing steadily. In funding agencies, the National Natural Science Foundation of China has funded most of the researches. In journals, the published articles of JOURNAL OF BONE AND JOINT SURGERY AMERICAN VOLUME are of the highest quality. For authors, KIM YJ is the author who not only published most of the articles, but also published the ones of the highest quality. In countries, the USA is ahead in the quantity and quality of published articles. In institutions, the published articles of UNIV BERN are of the highest quality. Through co-occurrence analysis, it can be seen that the research direction in the DDH field consists of four categories: Diagnosis, Complications, Hip replacement, and Staging treatment before hip replacement. Current research hotspots are mainly focused on treatment.Conclusions: At present, arthroplasty and osteotomy are research hotspots in recent years. It is recommended that researchers start the study of DDH from osteotomy, trying to optimize the adaptation age of various osteotomy to DDH and reduce its complications.
Midterm Results of Minimally Invasive Plating Osteosynthesis Versus Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for the Treatment of Mid-distal Humeral Shaft Fractures: A Case-match Controlled Comparison Study
Authors: Yin Bo , Gao Jie , Zeng Huayong , Lu Zheng , Cai Yanhong , He Yuanming , Liu Zhi , Li Lianhua
Published: November 2020

Background: Surgical treatment of humeral mid-distal shaft fractures is controversial. The purpose of this case-match controlled comparison study was to determine the safety and effectiveness of applying the MIPO technique compared with conventional ORIF for treating humeral mid-distal shaft fractures.Methods: This study was conducted from January 2012 to December 2016, and patients of mid-distal humeral shaft fractures were eligible for this study. The patients were followed up for a minimum period of 1 year. The clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated. The inclusion criteria were age between 18 to 60 years and acute displaced mid-distal humeral shaft fracture. The exclusion criteria were intra-articular fractures of the elbow, vascular insufficiency of the upper limb, pathological fracture and multiple or open fractures. The medical records and radiographs of all eligible patients during hospitalization and follow-up after discharge were reviewed. We use a 1:2 (MIPO/ORIF) case-match based on gender and age. All patients had at least 3 years of postoperative follow-up.Results: In total, 216 patients with mid-distal humeral shaft fracture underwent surgery at the departments of orthopedics of the Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital and Beijing Chaoyang Hospital. Of them, 28 underwent MIPO and 56 case-matched controls underwent ORIF; all of them had complete 3-year follow-up data. No significant differences were observed in baseline characteristics between both groups. UCLA scores and MEPS were significantly higher in the MIPO group than in the ORIF group. Furthermore, UCLA score and MEPS grades in the MIPO group were significantly superior to those in the ORIF group. There was no statistically significant difference in major complication rates between both groups; however, the total major complication rate was significantly different between both groups.Conclusion: This study demonstrates that MIPO has a statistically significant clinical benefit over ORIF, including better shoulder and elbow joint function, with few overall major complications after at least 3 years of postoperative follow-up. MIPO is a safe and effective method for treating mid-distal humeral shaft fractures when surgery is indicated.
Screening and Identification of Significant Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Bioinformatical Analysis and Validation in Clinical Tissue
Authors: zhou jun guo , Wang Dongsheng , Zhong Xiaorong , Ying Wei , Feng Yanchao , Li Wenbo , Shi Lin , Huang Lizheng , Li Jianshui , Hou Lingmi , Leng wei Zheng
Published: November 2020

Background: To screen out significant genes associated with occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) via bioinformatical analysis and validation using clinical specimens. Methods: Gene expression chips were obtained from GEO database, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between HCC and para-cancerous tissues were identified by GEO2R and Venn diagrams. What’s more, Gene Ontology (GO) function analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of DEGs were carried out by DAVID. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and module analysis of DEGs were performed by STRING and Cytoscape to get hub genes. Subsequently, the influence of hub genes on overall survival and the expression levels were determined with Ualcan and GEPIA, and found the pathway via re-analysis of DAVID. Besides, immunohistochemistry staining were performed to verify the key genes, and follow-up results including prognoses and the clinicopathological features were statistically analyzed. Results: 49 up-regulated DEGs and 122 down-regulated DEGs were selected. There were to tally 33 Hub genes were screened out, while 28 of them were related to prognosis and high expression in HCC. Furthermore, CDK1 and RRM2 were significantly enriched in p53 signaling pathway. Meanwhile, CDK1, RRM2 were highly expressed in HCC tissues by immunohistochemistry staining. Additionally, CDK1 and RRM2 were negatively correlated with overall survival. Tumor size and AFP were significant prognostic factors, while CDK1 and RRM2 were independent prognostic factors. Conclusion: This study confirmed CDK1 and RRM2 as the key genes in HCC which could be potential biological target for diagnosis and treatment.
Protocol for a Systematic Review of Outcome Measurement Tools for Autologous fat Grafting of the Facial Region
Authors: Speiser Sophie , Almadori Aurora , Langridge Benjamin J. , Butler Peter EM
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAutologous fat grafting has become an established therapeutic entity in several regions of the body. Especially in the facial region, AFG has been widely applied in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Indications include reconstructive purposes such as primary genetic disorders in maxillofacial development, or secondary asymmetries following primary reconstructive surgery. In addition, AFG has found several applications in the field of aesthetic surgery, such as skin rejuvenation. In addition to conventional AFG, recently several alternative strategies of grafting have been developed. Examples for these are transplantation of a graft including adipose derived stem cells (ADSC’s), cell-assisted lipofilling (CAL), and grafting with stromal vascular fraction (SVF). Until today, there is no common consensus on how to measure a successful outcome of autologous graft transplantation in the facial region. This systematic review aims to critically evaluate the current available outcome measurement methods, and compare them with regards to accuracy, cost-effectiveness, safety and validation in the clinical setting. The quality of evidence of included publications will be assessed using the GRADE strategy.MethodsA comprehensive, structured literature search of published articles will be conducted. This is designed by authors and performed in adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA-P). The literature search will be performed using the electronic databases MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE and Cochrane Library, including publications from inception to May 2020. Two independent authors will conduct the search, screen the articles, and complete data collection. The main outcome will be which methods are currently used to determine a successful fat grafting procedure in the face. We propose to review the current methods used to establish their overall performance in several domains. In addition, patients measured via the 3D volumetric photography method will be further analysed with regards to accuracy of the camera and retention of fat per method and ml injected.Discussion Autologous fat grafting in the facial region has gained significant attention in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery in the past decades. In light of the growing public interest in this topic, a systematic review of the outcome measurement tools is of essence. We will critically evaluate all approaches currently in practice and give a recommendation regarding several aspects of use. A common approach to measurement and reporting of results fosters an environment of high-standard healthcare delivery and promotes future research and informed clinical practice. In addition, we will further analyse the outcomes of different grafting methods using 3D volumetric photography as measurement tool. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020213407