bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fertility intentions and the way they change following birth- a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Preis Heidi , Tovim Selen , Mor Pnina , Grisaru-Granovsky Sorina , Samueloff Arnon , Benyamini Yael
Published: March 2020

Introduction: Women's fertility intentions, their desired number of children and desired inter-pregnancy interval (IPI) are related to micro (personal) and macro (socio-cultural) level factors. We investigated factors that contribute to changes in women's fertility intentions in Israel, a developed country with high birth rates.
Methods: Pregnant women (N=1163), recruited from prenatal clinics and hospitals in two major metropolitan areas, completed self-report questionnaires prenatally (≥24 weeks gestation) and postpartum (two months after childbirth). Women reported their socio-demographic background and obstetric history prenatally, their desired number of children and IPI at both time-points, and their objective and subjective birth experiences postpartum. Results: The findings indicated that background characteristics were related to prenatal fertility intentions. The strongest contributor to prenatal fertility intentions was women’s degree of religiosity- the more religious they were, the more children they desired and the shorter their intended IPI. Women's postpartum fertility intentions were mostly consistent with their prenatal reports. In regression models, women who were very-religious, more educated and had previously given birth were less likely to report a lower number of desired of children at postpartum, compared to their prenatal report. Women who reported greater birth satisfaction and gave birth for the first time were less likely to change desired IPI.
Conclusion: Having a negative birth experience could adversely affect women's fertility intentions. Yet, in a pronatalist and medicalized birth culture, social pressures may decrease the effects of birth experiences on fertility intentions.
Symptom control among asthmatics with a clinically significant smoking history: a cross-sectional study in Finland
Authors: Kiljander Toni , Poussa Tuija , Helin Timo , Jaakkola Antero , Venho Kari , Lehtimäki Lauri
Published: March 2020

Background Surprisingly little is known about asthma control among asthmatics who smoke. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate asthma symptom control according to the GINA guidelines among asthmatics with a clinically significant smoking history. Methods One hundred ninety asthmatics from primary care in Finland were investigated. The patients were current or previous cigarette smokers with a history of 10 or more pack-years. They completed a questionnaire including questions on asthma symptoms and reliever use so that their level of asthma symptom control (well controlled, partly controlled, or uncontrolled) according to GINA could be determined. Results Sixty-six (34.7%) patients had their asthma well controlled, 81 (42.6%) had their asthma partly controlled, and 43 (22.6%) had uncontrolled asthma. Current smokers had uncontrolled asthma more often than ex-smokers, OR 2.54 (95% CI 1.25-5.14, p=0.01). Patients with moderate to severe asthma exacerbation during the previous year had uncontrolled asthma more often than patients without an exacerbation, OR 2.17 (95% CI 1.06-4.47, p=0.04), and patients with FEV1 < 80% of predicted had uncontrolled asthma more often than patients with FEV1 > 80% of predicted, OR 2.04 (95% CI 1.02-4.08, p=0.04). Conclusions Asthmatic patients with a clinically significant smoking history often do not have well controlled asthma. Poor asthma symptom control was associated with current smoking status, history of exacerbations and impaired lung function. Therefore, every attempt should be made to help asthmatics who smoke to quit smoking.
An Integrated Humanities–Social Sciences Course in Health Sciences Education: Proposed Design, Effectiveness, and Associated Factors
Authors: Lee Jihyun , Lee Jueyeun , Jung Ilyoung
Published: March 2020

Background

Previous research has not provided enough direction regarding effective content design of courses integrating the humanities and social sciences in medical and dental education. This study aims at exploring how an Integrated Medical/Dental Humanities–Social Medicine/Dentistry course may be designed; how effective it may be in terms of student growth in knowledge, attitudes, skills, and aspirations; and associated factors.

Methods

The course was designed by distilling commonalities in the international standards for medical/dental education proposed by seven major health organizations. This analysis resulted in a curriculum covering nine major topics: history, professionalism, communication, ethics, management, policy, insurance, law, and research methodology. During the 2017 calendar year, data was collected and statistically analyzed from 68 third-year pre-doctoral students enrolled in the resulting MDHS 13-week course.

Results

Participants showed growth in skills, aspirations, knowledge, and attitudes, with the greatest change occurring in skills, then aspirations, knowledge, and attitudes. Knowledge growth was the only variable significantly related to student achievement of course objectives ( β = 0.635, t (63) = 3.394 , p = 0.001). The topics that students perceived as most critical were insurance, policy, management, and law. The perceived importance of research was most common among participants and was significantly related to all learning outcomes (For knowledge, β =0.213, t (63) = 2.203, p = 0.031; for attitudes, β = 0.784, t (63) = 10.257, p = 0.000; for skills, β = 0.769, t (63) = 9.772, p = 0.000; and aspirations β = 0.639, t (63) = 7.595, p = 0.000).

Conclusions

This study proposed a framework for humanities-social sciences education in health sciences education and analyzed its implementation. The empirical evaluation of its effectiveness and factors related to successful outcomes found that students perceived gains in their knowledge, attitudes, skills, and aspirations for humanistic and social aspects of dentistry/medicine. In addition, their recognition of the importance of research was associated with the greatest growth in all four learning outcomes. This study may contribute to the improved design of integrated humanities–social sciences courses.
Impact of External Locus of Control on Quality of Life in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Haskas Yusran , Suarnianti Suarnianti , Angriani Sri , Kadrianti Erna , Restika Indah
Published: March 2020

Background: Quality of life is an illustration of an individual’s livelihood, as related to daily activities, in order to own a typical life, especially with reference to health. Individuals with diabetes mellitus have a quality of life that is quite diverse and affects the health conditions of all related people. It is this point that the role of locus of control is contemplated in maintaining the quality of life for these individuals. This study aim to analyze the influence of locus of control in patients with diabetes mellitus, in relation to the quality of life they lead.Methods: This observational survey based study was performed by implementing a cross-sectional design. The study was conducted in type B and C hospitals and health centers of Makassar City and included 389 respondents. Data analysis was done using the chi-square test.Result: The result showed that the locus of control had a significant effect on the quality of life of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (ρ<0.01; α=0.05).Conclusions: The locus of control significantly affects the quality of life of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. People with type 2 diabetes mellitus, who had an external locus of control, were observed to be more dominant and did not own a good quality of life because such individuals are very dependent on the external environment rather than the environment within them. The result of this study also indicate that locus of control may be regarded as the basis in predicting the future quality of life of an individual.
Construction of a sensitive and specific lead biosensor using a genetically engineered bacterial system with a luciferase gene reporter
Authors: Nourmohammadi Esmail , Hosseinkhani Saman , Nedaeinia Reza , Khoshdel-Sarkarizi Hoda , Nedaeinia Mozhdeh , Ranjbar Maryam , Ebrahimi Neshat , Farjami Zahra , Nourmohammadi Mohammad , Mahmoudi Ali , Goli Mohammad , A.Ferns Gordon , Sadeghizadeh Majid
Published: March 2020

Background: A bacterial biosensor refers to genetically engineered bacteria that produce an assessable signal in the presence of a physical or chemical agent in the environment. Methods: We have designed and evaluated a bacterial biosensor expressing a luciferase-reporter gene controlled by pbr and cadA promoters in Cupriavidus metallidurans (previously termed Ralstonia metallidurans) containing CH34 and pI258 plasmids of Staphylococcus aureus, respectively, and that can be used for the detection of heavy metals. In the present study, we produced biosensor plasmids designated pGL3-luc/pbr-biosensor and pGL3-luc/cad-biosensor, that were based on the expression of luc+ under the control of the cad promoter and the cadC gene of S. aureus plasmid pI258 and pbr promoter and pbrR gene from plasmid pMOL30 of Cupriavidus metallidurans.Results: We found that the biodegradable pGL3-luc/pbr-biosensor could be used to measure lead concentrations between 1-100 μM in the presence of other metals, including: zinc, cadmium, tin and nickel. The latter metals did not result in gene expression of the reporter. The pGL3-luc/cad-biosensor was able to detect lead concentrations between 10 nM to 10 μM.Conclusions: This biosensor was found to be a specific for measuring lead ions in both environmental and biological samples.
Stem cell membrane-coated isotretinoin for acne treatment
Authors: Wang Shiyi , Jiang Rihua , Meng Tianqi , Zhang Fuqiang , Li Jing , Jin Yongri , Lee JeungHoon , Zhu Mingji , Jiang Jinlan
Published: March 2020

Background: Topical isotretinoin is commonly used to treat acne. However, topical isotretinoin has side effects and can permeate through the stratum corneum, the most important skin barrier. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of nanoparticles as stable carriers with great curative effects, low side effects, and strong transdermal ability.Results: In a rabbit model of hyperkeratinization, STCM-ATRA-NPs showed significant therapeutic efficacy. By contrast, negative therapeutic efficacy was observed in a golden hamster model of hyper sebum production. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectral analyses showed that nanoparticles could penetrate the stratum corneum. Western blotting demonstrated that the nanoparticles could enhance the transdermal efficacy of isotretinoin by reducing the effect of keratin and tight junction proteins. Further, nanoparticles enhanced endocytosis, thereby promoting drug penetration and absorption into the skin.Conclusion: STCM-ATRA-NPs were demonstrated to control isotretinoin release, reducing its side effects and efficiently permeating through the skin by reducing the effect of keratin and tight junction proteins and enhancing endocytosis.
Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Between Total Knee Arthroplasties Using Medial-Pivot and Posterior-Stabilized Prosthesis: Minimum 8-year Follow-up Results in Chinese population
Authors: Gao Zheng-yu , Guo Cui-cui , Zhang Zi-an , Shang Guang-qian , Yan Wei-ning , Xiang Shuai , Zhang Hai-ning , Wang Ying-zhen , Xu Hao
Published: March 2020

Objective To compare the clinical outcomes of Medial-pivot and Posterior-stablized total knee arthroplasty during 8 years follow-up. Methods 109 patients with osteoarthritis who underwent primary total knee arthroplasty were conducted and divided into two groups according to the choice of prosthesis,49 in the Medial-pivot(MP) group and 60 in the Postirior-stabilized(PS) group.There were no statistical differences in age,gender,BMI,operative side and operation time between the two groups (P>0.05).The same protocol of perioperative treatment was adopted in both groups. Comparison of clinical outcome and survival rates were acquired through minimum 8 years follow-up. Results The prosthesis survival rate andthe excellent and good rate of MP group were 93.9% and 88.9% during average 8.3 years follow-up period,versus the prosthesis survival rate and the excellent or good rate of PS group were 93.3% and 86.7% during average 8.4 years follow-up period.There were no statistical diferences in survival rate,excellent and good rate and radiolucency of weight-bearing areas between the two groups ( P >0.05). There were no statistical differences in range of motion,KSS score and WOMAC index between the two groups preoperatively (P>0.05).The range of motion at all follow-up time points and KSS score at 6 months postoperatively of PS group were superior than those of MP group ( P <0.05),while the WOMAC index at 8 years postoperatively and Kujala scores at 1year and 8 years postoperatively of PS group were better than those of MP group( P <0.05). Conclusion Either medial-pivot or post-stabilized total knee arthroplasty could obtain excellent or good mid-term clinical result. Although with less range of motion, the patients using MP prosthesis could obtain better results in bone loss, performance of the patellofemoral joint and mid-term satisfaction. However, the use of MP prosthesis required more professional and precise technology and it should be cautious when using for knees with severe valgus deformation.
Comparison of Calculated Skin Doses in Cineradiography and Four Dimensional Kinematic Computed Tomography of the Wrist
Authors: Goelz Leonie , Asmus Ariane , Kim Simon , Diehl Joscha , Eisenschenk Andreas , Schüler Gabriele , Mutze Sven
Published: March 2020

Background: Previous studies have discussed the diagnostic value of four dimensional kinematic CT in cases of carpal instabilities. This analysis compares calculated skin doses of 4D CT and conventional cineradiography of the wrist in cases of suspected SLL rupture.Methods: Retrospective calculation and interpolation of skin doses and effective doses for ten consecutive 4D CT examinations and 41 cineradiographies for suspected lesions of the scapholunate ligament. Standardised anterior-posterior and lateral cine sequences using a flat-panel digital subtraction imager and of 4D kinematic CT using a dual-source scanner were acquired and acquisition parameters recorded. We tested if the skin dose of 4D CT is different from cineradiography. Results: Median dose area product (DAP) of cineradiography was 135.34 cGycm 2 resulting in a calculated median skin dose of 32.6 mSv (confidence interval 26.86-42.90 mSv) and an estimated effective skin dose of 3.26 µSv. CT dose index (CTDI) for 4D examinations was recorded to be 26.79 mGy and the dose-length product (DLP) was 150 mGy*cm. This resulted in an estimated skin dose of 34 mSv, which is covered by the confidence interval of cineradiography, and an effective skin dose of 3.4 µSv. Conclusions: Skin dose calculations are comparable for 2D cineradiography in two plains and 4D kinematic CT of the wrist. Calculated effective doses are <0.01 mSv.
Diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophybased on convolutional neural network
Authors: Jian Zini , Wang Xianpei , Zhang Jingzhe , Wang Xinyu , Deng Youbin
Published: March 2020

Background: Clinically, doctors obtain the left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT) mainly by observing ultrasonic echocardiographic video stream to capture a single frame of images with diagnostic significance, and then mark two key points on both sides of the posterior wall of the left ventricle with their own experience for computer measurement. In the actual measurement, the doctor's selection point is subjective, which is not only time-consuming and laborious, but also difficult to accurately locate the edge, which will bring errors to the measurement results.Material/Methods: In this paper, a convolutional neural network model of left ventricular posterior wall positioning was built under the TensorFlow framework, and the target region images were obtained after the positioning results were processed by non-local mean filtering and opening operation. Then the edge detection algorithm based on threshold segmentation is used. After the contour was extracted by adjusting the segmentation threshold through prior analysis and the OTSU algorithm, the design algorithm completed the computer selection point measurement of the thickness of the posterior wall of the left ventricle. Results: The proposed method can effectively extract the left ventricular posterior wall contour and measure its thickness. The experimental results show that the relative error between the measurement result and the hospital measurement value is less than 15%, which is less than 20% of the acceptable repeatability error in clinical practice. Conclusions: Therefore, the method proposed in this paper not only has the advantage of less manual intervention, but also can reduce the workload of doctors.
Development Of An Excel-Based Cost Effectiveness Analysis Tool For Ascertaining Value For Money In Implementation Of Hiv And Other Health Interventions At Bomu Hospital, Kenya
Authors: NJERU NANCY MUCOGO , Owiti Elizabeth , Ahmed Aabid
Published: March 2020

An Organization Capacity Assessment done in Bomu hospital in April 2015 with an aim to strengthen the local institution’s capacity for sustainable fight against HIV Aids pandemic led to the development of this excel-based cost effectiveness analysis tool. Objective: The specific objectives were to develop a cost-effectiveness analysis excel tool complete with instruction manual for use in costing, determining prices of services and carrying out economic evaluations. Method: A technical working team (TWG) comprising of senior management of the hospital and the University of Nairobi Fellow was formed. The TWG identified program where cost indicators would be derived, developed cost indicators collection tools, collected costing data and build necessary consensus and assumptions. The data was used to design the tool complete with working instructions. Results: The tool comprises of processes, instructions, excel data entry provisions and inbuilt formulae in excel sheets. The unique tool features include; simple to use instructions, systematic listing of cost elements with a drop down option to allow selection as required, allows additional cost elements to be added thus increasing scope of use . The tool also separates costs and sub-costs in a manner that allows cost drivers to be known precisely as well as avoid double costing among others. Conclusion: The tool is transferable to other facilities and can be replicated in all hospitals within the country, in private, public and non – governmental organizations. Its regular review, improvements and utilization will be important for the health sector to fully benefit from its use. It will be necessary to sensitize health facilities to address information gaps and also ensure that data is available in form and detail necessary for costing purposes. Key words: Economic evaluation, Costing, Resources, Treatment outcomes
The State and Biochemical Composition of Coniferous Plant Wood in Places of Degradation
Authors: Bukharina Irina , Vedernikov Konstantin , Pashkova Anna , Zagrebin Yegor
Published: March 2020

Background. A significant deterioration in the state of dark coniferous forests, which in some cases is accompanied by their drying, has manifested itself throughout the Northern Hemisphere. This process is very dynamic and covers the entire boreal zone from Europe to the North American continent, covering all forest-forming species Research in the field of the ecological biochemistry of wood opens up wide possibilities for studying the stability of spruce stands. Coniferous wood, including spruce, consists of polymer structural components (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) and non-structural components (including extractives, ash and other minor substances). Extractives with high biological activity, which are produced as protective compounds during the life of plants from external environmental stresses, play an important protective function in coniferous wood. The structure of wood and its biochemical composition can change under various influences. The content of extractives varies greatly not only in different areas, but also from specimen to specimen, depending on their condition. In this regard, the aim of our research was to study the content of extractives in spruce wood in specimens of different life states.Methods. This work presents the results of studies on the characteristics of the biochemical composition of Siberian spruce (Pícea obovata L.) in mass drying conditions in the territory of the Udmurt Republic (Russia). The enumeration method was used to create a plot taxation. A study of the biochemical composition of wood was carried out based on the content of extractives from specimens in various life states. Results. Trial plot stands are characterized by low tree density in the main canopy. According to biochemical analysis, the highest content of extractives was observed in specimens with good and satisfactory vitality. In trees with an unsatisfactory life state, biochemical parameters were low, which is associated with the lack of self-regulation in dead wood. Conclusions. Obviously, the substances under study play a large role in the adaptive reactions of Pícea obovata, and the increase in their production is a response to negative environmental factors.
Diagnostic value of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte and albumin-to-globulin ratios in patients with colon cancer
Authors: Huang Li , Mo Zhuning , Hu Zuojian , Zhang Linyan , Qin Shanzi , Qin Xue , Li Shan
Published: March 2020

Background: Ample evidence has revealed that the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) and albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) are cancer-related inflammatory markers. The present study aimed to assess whether LMR and AGR, alone or in combination with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), was a useful diagnostic marker for colon cancer.Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 251 patients with colon cancer, 171 patients with benign colon diseases, and 187 healthy control subjects from January 2012 to September 2019. Mann-Whitney U test or Chi-square test were used to analyze differences between groups in laboratory parameters and clinicopathological features. The diagnostic value of LMR and AGR combined or not with CEA in colon cancer patients was determined via a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.Results: The levels of LMR and AGR were decreased in the colon cancer group compared with the healthy control and benign colon disease groups. The LMR and AGR were correlated with lymph node metastasis, tumor size, and clinical stage. Moreover, AGR was associated with distant metastasis. Both the LMR (r = −0.137, p = 0.030) and AGR (r = −0.178, p = 0.005) were negatively correlated with the concentration of CEA. LMR or AGR combined with CEA could enhance sensitivity (75.30% for LMR + CEA, 58.57% for AGR + CEA) and generate larger area under curve (AUC; 0.75 for LMR + CEA, 0.74 for AGR + CEA) compared with the LMR (p < 0.001), AGR (p < 0.001), or CEA (p < 0.001) alone.Conclusion: The combination of LMR or AGR with CEA may enhance the sensitivity and diagnostic efficacy of detecting colon cancer from benign colon diseases.
Knowledge and practice of postoperative nausea, vomiting management, and predictors of knowledge among health professionals in referral hospitals of northwest Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Yetneberk Tikuneh , Fentie Yewlsew , Yimer Hailu , Belayneh Tadesse , Tarekegn Abraham
Published: March 2020

Background Good knowledge conjoined with evident practice of postoperative nausea, and vomiting management is vital for the optimal management of patients. On the other hand, inadequate knowledge and poor practice of health professionals on postoperative nausea vomiting risk reduction and management come up with complications, reduce patient satisfaction, increase patient, and hospital costs. Objective To assess knowledge, practice, and predictors of knowledge regarding postoperative nausea and vomiting management among health professionals working in referral hospitals in northwest Ethiopia. Methods A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted on 407 health professionals from February 27 to March 30, 2019, in referral hospitals in northwest Ethiopia. Stratified random Sampling followed by simple random sampling was used to select the study participants. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with the knowledge level of health professionals in PONV management. In the multivariable analysis, variables with a p-value <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results 52.8% of the study participants had good knowledge of PONV management (95% CI: 47.9-57.2). Male professionals were 1.95 times more likely knowledgeable as compared with females. The odds of physicians being knowledgeable were 5.36 times more likely than midwives, while the odds of anesthetists being knowledgeable were 3.88 times more likely than midwives. Professionals trained on PONV management were 5.32 (AOR: 5.32; 95%CI: 1.58, 17.89) times more likely knowledgeable than those who did not train. Conclusions Nearly fifty % of healthcare providers working in the perioperative working areas had poor knowledge of PONV management. Gender, profession, and training on PONV management were factors significantly affecting the knowledge level of health professionals. Regular training seminars, continuous professional development, adherence to the latest guidelines, and conducting clinical audits are recommended to increase knowledge and improve the practices of health professionals in postoperative nausea vomiting management.
Exploring the Pharmacological Mechanism of the modified Chinese medicine formulas “Shenfu-Linguizhugan decoction” treating Dilated cardiomyopathy Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Quan Wuxia , Miao Yandong
Published: March 2020

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a non-ischaemic cardiac muscle disease with structural and functional myocardial aberration can lead to extensive morbidity and mortality due to complications in particular heart failure and arrhythmia. Two classic Chinese medicine formulas, Shenfu decoction and Linguizhugan decoction, were both shown to exert therapeutic effects on heart disease. Thus, modified Shenfu and Linguizhugan decoction (SFLGZGD) is recommended for treatment DCM. However, its chemical and pharmacological characteristics remain to be elucidated. In the current study, a network pharmacology approach was applied to characterize the action mechanism and target genes of SFLGZGD on DCM.Methods: The gene expression of DCM was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). All compounds were obtained from the correlative databases, and active mixture were selected according to their oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL) index. The potential targets of SFLGZGD were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database. The compound-target and target-pathway networks were constructed. The protein-protein interactive (PPI) network generated by R software was visualized by Cytoscape, and the topology scores, functional regions, and gene annotations were analyzed using plugins of Bisogenet and CytoNCA. The potential pathways related to target genes were determined by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses.Results: A total of 963 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 538 upregulated genes and 425 downregulated, were obtained from GSE19303. A total of 636 ingredients in SFLGZGD were obtained, among which, 93 were chosen as bioactive components. The compound-target network included 10 bioactive components and 18 potential targets and a total of 1939 genes obtained in the PPI network, among them, a total of 16 genes were screened out. Moreover,129 terms on the GO analysis and six pathways obtained. Among these potential targets, EGFR, CDKN1A, MMP1, COL1A1, COL3A1, MMP3, ICAM1, and HSPB1 were identified as relatively high-degree targets.Conclusions: The network pharmacology-based approach in the current study has shown promising potential in identifying major therapeutic targets from TCM formulations. Besides, our study suggested that network pharmacology prediction may provide a useful tool for describing the molecular mechanism of SFLGZGD on DCM.
Isolation of a Pseudomonas putida strain that degrades p-hydroxybenzoic acid from the soil of a Panax ginseng field
Authors: Shen Liang , Zhu Guangwei , Guo Shuai , Li Xiwen , Xiao Shuiming , Xu Jiang , Chen Shilin
Published: March 2020

Background: Panax ginseng is a valuable herbal medicine which has been applied in eastern Asia to maintain their physical vitality for millennia. However, continuous cropping leads to the accumulation of allelochemicals, which subsequently reduces the quality and yield of P. ginseng, and arable soils for P. ginseng cultivation are getting scarce. Methods: In this study, a strain highly efficient degrading p-hydroxybenzoic acid was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of a ginseng cultivation field. Subsequently, its draft genome was sequenced, and the key genes involving the p-hydroxybenzoic acid-degrading pathway were identified by bioinformatics software. Results: Based on its biophysical/biochemical characteristics, analysis of the 16S rRNA sequence and gyrB gene authentication, strain LD6 was identified as Pseudomonas putida LD6. The initial p-hydroxybenzoic acid concentration in minimal salt medium was 100 mg•L-1, and after 8 d of bacterial culture in the laboratory, the degraded reached 97.35%. The p-hydroxybenzoic acid content was decreased by 35.21%, and the ginseng death rate was decreased by 38.46% in the rhizosphere soil of P. ginseng inoculated with strain LD6. The draft genome sequence consisted of 5,765,634 bp, and the genome comprised 5186 protein-coding genes, and the pobA, catB, pcaG, UbiA, and UbiX genes were annotated, and may play important roles in p-hydroxybenzoic acid degradation.Conclusion: Isolation and manipulation of functional bacteria is an effective strategy to alleviate ginseng continuous cropping problems and enhance the quality and yield of P. ginseng.
Assessment of the explosive chamber in the projector system of Hayabusa2 for asteroid sampling
Authors: Takano Yoshinori , Yamada Keita , (Deceased) Chisato Okamoto , Sawada Hirotaka , Okazaki Ryuji , Sakamoto Kanako , Kebukawa Yoko , Kiryu Kento , Shibuya Takazo , Igisu Motoko , Yano Hajime , Tachibana Shogo
Published: March 2020

We report an assessment of the explosive chamber in the projector system used during the sampling operation of the Hayabusa2 project at the surface of the C-type asteroid Ryugu. Although the explosion process was designed as a closed system (cf. Sawada et al., Space Sci. Rev., 2017), volatile combustion gases and semivolatile organics were produced together with quenched carbonaceous products. The chemical compositions of the gases, organics, and inorganics were investigated in the screening analysis. A solid-phase microextraction technique and thermal desorption coupled with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis revealed that aliphatic ( three rings > four rings, resulting in abiogenic molecular patterns. The most intense inorganic fingerprints were due to potassium (K + ) and chloride (Cl – ) ions derived from the initial KTB explosive and RK ignition charge. We discuss quality control and quality assurance issues applicable to future sample processes during the Hayabusa2 project.
Prevalence of human papillomavirus genotypes and precancerous cervical lesions in a screening population in Beijing, China: Analysis of results from China’s Top 3 Hospital, 2009–2019
Authors: Liu Yidi , Wu Huan , Xu Jingjiang , Chen Defu , Zhao Hongyou , Liu Haolin , Guo Xianghuan , Qiu Haixia , Gu Ying
Published: March 2020

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. Early detection and diagnosis play an important role in secondary prevention of cervical cancer. This study aims to provide more information to develop an effective strategy for the prevention and control of cervical cancer in northern China. Methods: A retrospective single-centre descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Chinese PLA General Hospital located in Beijing, covering the period from January 2009 to June 2019. The patients who underwent a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based HPV genotyping test and cervical pathological diagnosis were included. Furthermore, we limited the interval between the two examination within 180 days for the purpose of making sure their correlation to analyse their relationship. Moreover, the relationship between different cervical lesions and age as well as single/multiple HPV infection was assessed.Results: A total of 3,134 patients were eligible in this study after HPV genotyping test and pathological diagnosis. Most of the patients (95%) were from northern China. Among the patients, 1,745(55.68%） had high-grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (HSIL), 1,354 (43.20%) had low-grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (LSIL) and 35 (1.12%) were Normal. The mean age was 42.06 ± 10.82(range, 17–79 years). The women aged 35-49 years accounted for the highest incidence rate. The top five most commonly identified HPV genotypes in each lesion class were as follows: HPV16, 58, 52, 31 and 51 in the class of HSIL; HPV16, 52, 58, 56 and 51 in the class of LSIL; HPV16, 31, 6,11, 52 and 58 in the class of normal. The frequencies of HPV single genotype infection and multiple genotypes infection were 55.26% and 34.18%, respectively. There was no difference in the attributable proportions of multiple genotypes infection amongst HSIL, LSIL and Normal.Conclusions: In Northern China, HPV16 was the most dominant genotype in the patients with pathological examination. The peak age of the onset of HSIL was between 35 and 49 years of age. Infection with multiple HPV genotypes did not increase the risk of HSIL. Type-specific HPV prevalence and attribution proportion to cervical precancerous lesions should be taken into consideration in the development of vaccines and strategy for screening in this population.
Effect of Streptococcus anginosus on biological response of tongue squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Xu Yuan , Jia Yuhuan , Chen Liang , Gao Jing , Yang Deqin
Published: March 2020

Background: Streptococcus anginosus(S.anginosus) was reported increased in oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC) tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate the response of oral cancer cells in the biological characteristics evoked by the S.anginosus and investigate its potential mechanisms.Methods: The growth curve and concentration standard curve of S.anginosus were determined , and a series of concentrations of S.anginosus supernatant were applied to OSCC cell lines SCC15,then selected an optimal time and concentration by CCK-8 assay. Then autophagic response, proliferative activity, cell cycle and apoptosis, invasion and migration abilities were evaluated in SCC15.Results: The results showed that when the ratio of S.anginosus supernatant to cell culture medium was 1:1 and the co-culture time was 16h, there was a most significant inhibited effect on SCC15; Furthermore, S.anginosus supernatant can up-regulate the autophagy activity of SCC15, then, the ability of proliferation, migration and invasion was observed inhibited obviously. Compared with the control groups, the cell cycle showed G1 arrest, S and G2 / M phases decreased, and the percentage of apoptotic cells relatively increased(P<0.05).Conclusion: S.anginosus can reduce the proliferation, migration and invasion of SCC15 cells and promote cell apoptosis; Moreover, autophagy may be one of the mechanisms in this process.
Hepatitis C Virus nonstructural protein 4B induces lipogenesis via Merlin-Hippo pathway
Authors: Zhang Zhanfeng , Zhao Rong , Chen Jiukai , Xie Zaichun , Pang Zhiyu , Zhou Yingchun
Published: March 2020

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is often associated with hepatic steatosis, even hepatocellcular carcinoma. Nonstructural protein 4B (NS4B)，a highly hydrophobic non-structural protein, induces lipogenesis, but the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. In the present study, NS4B expression in Huh7.5 cells could reduce moesin-ezrin-radixin–like protein (Merlin, NF2 gene coding protein) expression, Yap phosphorylation, and increase AKT phosphorylation and sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) expression, which regulate lipogenic gene expressions including fatty acid synthase (FAS). In Huh7.5 cells, Merlin silencing reduced Yap phosphorylation, AKT phosphorylation, and especially SREBPs levels lead to reduction of lipid drop synthesis. In addition, HCV NS4B infected Huh7.5 cells exhibited lipid droplets, but lipid droplets significantly reduced after Merlin over-expressed. In conclusion, these results indicated that NS4B may play an important role in HCV-associated liver pathogenesis via Merlin-Hippo signal pathway.
A modified surgical technique of shortening renal ischemia time in left renal cancer patients with Mayo level II-IV tumor thrombus
Authors: Ma Lulin , Zhuo Liu , Guodong Zhu , Xun Zhao , Shiying Tang , Peng Hong , Li Zhang , Liwei Li , Shudong Zhang , Guoliang Wang , Xiaojun Tian , Cheng Liu , Hongxian Zhang
Published: March 2020

Objective to explore the safety and effectiveness of a modified surgical technique which could shorten the time of renal ischemia in left renal cancer and Mayo level II to IV inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombusMethod We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 14 cases with left renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and Mayo level II to IV IVC tumor thrombus. Preoperative imaging showed that there was no obvious sign of tumor thrombus invading the blood vessel wall. During the surgery, after the right renal artery, the right renal vein and the distal end of IVC were blocked, the balloon catheter was used and the tumor thrombus was removed completely from the IVC. The incision of IVC was closed by Satinsky clamp to make IVC partially blocked. Then the right renal artery and right renal vein were released. The incision of IVC was sutured continuously. At last, the Satinsky clamp and the blocking band at the distal end of the IVC were released.Result There were 8 cases (57.1%) of Mayo level II, 3 cases (21.4%) of Mayo level III and 3 cases (21.4%) of Mayo level IV. The operation was successfully completed in all 14 patients. There were 2 cases (14.3%) operated by complete laparoscopic approach, 8 cases (57.1%) by open approach, and 4 patients (28.6%) by laparoscopic conversion to open approach. The occlusion time of right renal artery and vein (renal ischemia time) was 3 to 15 minutes, with an average of (6.8±3.2) minutes. The mean time of IVC occlusion was (19.4±4.9) min. Preoperative creatinine was 66 to 130 μmol/L, with an average of (96.6 ± 21.2) μmol/L. One week after operation, serum creatinine was 64 to 632 μmol/L, with an average of (132.4 ± 144.9) μmol/L. Among the 14 cases, 5 (42.9%) had early postoperative complications. Besides one of the 14 patients died in perioperative period, the median follow-up of other 13 cases was 10 months (range: 4-29 months). The 5 (35.7%) of the 14 cases were died of disease.Conclusion This modified procedure was relatively safe and effective in shortening the time of renal ischemia in left RCC patients with Mayo II to IV IVC tumor thrombus.
Onabotulinumtoxin A improves psychological aspects in chronic migraine patients
Authors: Al-Hashel Jasem Yousef , Ashkanani Hasan Kh , Almutairi Ohood , Bokubar Fajer A , Mubarak Shahad , Alwazzan Sawsan , Alroughani Raed , Youssry Doaa , Ahmed Samar Farouk
Published: March 2020

Background: Chronic migraine (CM) affects 5.4% of the Kuwaiti population. It is associated with significant headache-related disability, psychiatric comorbidity and reduces quality of life. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of OnabotulinumtoxinA on psychological aspects of chronic migraine patients.Methods: 113 chronic migraineurs were identified in a tertiary headache center. Eligible patients met International Classification of Headache Disorders disorders-third edition, beta version (ICHD-III)Revision criteria for chronic migraine. They received 155 units of Onabotulinumtoxin A quarterly according to the Phase III Research Evaluating Migraine Prophylaxis Therapy Trail (PREEMPT) protocol. Patients received less than 4 injections cycles were excluded. Quality of life, the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scores, the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9), The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were collected before injection and at last visit. Mean comparison tests were performed using the independent sample t test to assess the effects of onabotulinumtoxin A on quality of life, comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, and quality of sleep. Results: This is retrospective study included 113 chronic migraine patients, with a mean age of 44.92+ 9.47years, mean disease duration 12.20 +10.10 years and a mean treatment duration 33.72 +43.14 months. At last visit, most of our cohort showed improvement in quality of life (81%), GAD-7 (81%), PHQ9 (79%), and PSQ1 (76%). The mean score of patient satisfaction was 7.21 +2.21. OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment for CM improved Quality of life significantly (72.92 +17.34 versus103.62 +15.62;P< 0.0001). It was also associated with significant reduction in GAD-7 (12.00 +4.40 versus 6.61 +4.40; P< 0.0001); PHQ-9 (17.91 +8.43 versus12.52 +8.77; P< 0.0001) scores and PSQI (12.60 +5.66 versus 6.66 +5.04; P< 0.0001) at last visit.Conclusion: Prophylactic OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment for CM was associated with significant improvement of quality of life, reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improved associated symptoms of poor sleep.
Fall Characteristics Among Elderly Populations in Urban and Rural Areas in Korea
Authors: Kim Myeongkyu , Chang Misoo , Nam Eunwoo , Kim Seul Gi , Cho Sung-il , Ryu Dong Hee , Kam Sin , Choi Bo Youl , Kim Mi Jung
Published: March 2020

BackgroundFalling is one of the leading causes of injury among elderly populations. As the population over 65 years old increases, medical costs due to falling will also increase. Urban and rural areas have different fall characteristics, and research into these differences is lacking.MethodsA survey was conducted on 2,012 people over 60 years old between September 1, 2015 to October 12, 2015. Guro-gu (Seoul), Yeongdeungpo-gu (Seoul), and Jung-gu (Daegu) were classified as urban areas and included 1,205 of the study participants. Dalseong-gun (Daegu) and Yangpyeong-gun (Gyeonggi-do) were categorized as rural areas and included 807 participants. Several region characteristics, including population density, were considered to distinguish between urban and rural areas. The survey included questions about fall history, cause, season and time of recent falls, and external conditions associated with recent falls, like floor or ground material and shoe types.ResultsRural respondents were older than urban respondents (p<0.001) but did not differ significantly in gender proportion (p=0.082). Fall history over the past year was not different between the two regions (p=0.693), but lifetime fall history was greater among rural respondents (p<0.001). Only 5.1% of all respondents had undergone fall-prevention education. A slippery floor was the most common cause of falls in both regions, but there was a significant difference in pattern of fall causes (p<0.001). Falls were more frequent in the summer, spring, and the afternoon in urban areas, and in the summer, autumn, and the morning in rural areas. Cement and asphalt were the most common ground materials at the time of falls in both regions, but rural respondents had higher fall rates when walking on soil and when wearing slippers.ConclusionsA fall-prevention program that reflects the characteristics and differences of falls in urban and rural areas should be developed and used to effectively prevent falling among elderly people.
Clinical efficacy of extended modified posteromedial approach versus posterolateral approach for surgical treatment of posterior pilon fracture: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Qin-Ming , Wang Hai-Bin , Li Xiao-Yan , Chu Feng-Long , Han Liang , Li Dong-Mei , Wu Bin
Published: March 2020

Background: Posterior pilon fracture is a type of ankle fracture associated with poorer treatment results compared to the conventional ankle fracture. This is partly related to the lack of consensus on the classification, approach selection, and internal fixation method for this type of fracture. This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of posterolateral approach versus extended modified posteromedial approach for surgical treatment of posterior pilon fracture. Methods: Data of 67 patients with posterior pilon fracture who received fixation with a buttress plate between January 2015 and December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients received steel plate fixation through either the posterolateral approach (n = 35, group A) or the extended modified posteromedial approach (n = 32, group B). Operation time, intraoperative blood loss, excellent and good rate of reduction, fracture healing time, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale score, and Visual Analogue Scale score were compared between groups A and B. Results: All patients were followed up for an average period of 15.4 months. No nonunion, failure of internal fixation, or anklebone stiffness occurred in either group during the follow-up period. However, the operation time was significantly shorter, intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower, AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Scale score was significantly higher, and Visual Analogue Scale score was significantly lower in group B than in group A (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Compared to the posterolateral approach, the extended modified posteromedial approach can provide a better surgical field for the treatment of posterior pilon fracture, which allows reduction and fixation of this type of fractures under direct vision and evaluation of reduction effects, and reduces operation time and intraoperative blood loss. Combining this approach with supporting steel plate fixation enables early functional rehabilitation of the ankle with more satisfactory clinical results.
CircRHOT1 Mediated Cell Proliferation, Apoptosis and Invasion of Pancreatic Cancer Cells by Sponging miR-125a-3p
Authors: Ling Sunkai , He Yanru , Li Xiaoxue , Hu Mingyue , Ma Yu , Li Yuan , Lu Zipeng , Shen Shanshan , Kong Bo , Zou Xiaoping , Jiang Kuirong , Huang Peilin
Published: March 2020

Background: The present study aimed to investigate the mechanistic biological function of circRHOT1 in pancreatic cancer cells.Methods: The expression of circRHOT1 and miR-125a-3p in pancreatic cancer tissues and their paired adjacent normal tissues was quantified by qRT-PCR. By knocking down or overexpressing circRHOT1 and miR-125a-3p in pancreatic cancer cells, their functions and potential mechanisms were explored.Results: circRHOT1 was overexpressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines, and it was found to directly bind to miR-125a-3p, acting as an endogenous sponge to inhibit its activity. Knockdown of circRHOT1 expression significantly inhibited proliferation as well as invasion, and it promoted apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells via the regulation of E2F3 through the targeting of miR-125a-3p.Conclusion: Taken together, our results demonstrated that circRHOT1 plays critical roles in regulating the biological functions of pancreatic cancer cells, suggesting that circRHOT1 may serve as a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for patients with pancreatic cancer.