bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender, reproductive output covariation and their role on gene diversity of Pinus koraiensis seed orchard crops
Authors: Park Ji-Min , Kang Hye-In , Yeom Da-Bin , Kang Kyu-Suk , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Lee Kyung-Mi
Published: September 2020

Background: Gender and fertility variation have an impact on mating dynamics in a population because they affect the gene exchange among parental members and the genetic composition of the resultant seed crops. Fertility is the proportional gametic contribution of parents to their progeny. An effective number of parents, derivative of effective population size, is the probability that two alleles randomly chosen from the gamete gene pool originated from the same parent. The effective number of parents is directly related to the fertility variation among parents, which should be monitored for manipulating gene diversity of seed crops. We formulated a fundamental equation of estimating the effective number of parents and applied it to a seed production population.Results: Effective number of parents (Np) was derived from fertility variation (Y) considering covariance (correlation coefficient, r) between maternal and paternal fertility. The Y was calculated from the coefficient of variation in reproductive outputs and divided into female (yf) and male (ym) fertility variation in the population under study. The Np was estimated from the parental Y estimated by the fertility variation of maternal (yf) and paternal (ym) parents. The gene diversity of seed crops was monitored by Y and Np. in a 1.5 generation Pinus koraiensis seed orchard as a case of monoecious species. A large variation of female and male strobili production was observed among the studied 52 parents over four consecutive years, showing statistically significant differences across all studied years. Parental balance curve showed greater distortion in paternal than maternal parents. The Y ranged from 1.879 to 4.035 with greater ym than yf, and the Np varied from 14.8 to 36.8. When pooled, the relative effective number of parents was improved as 80.0% of the census number.Conclusions: We recommend the use of fertility variation (i.e., CV, Y), Person’s product-moment correlation (r), and effective number of parents (Np) as tools for gauging gene diversity of seed crops in production populations. For increasing Np and gene diversity, additional management options such as mixing seed-lots, equal cone harvest and application of supplemental-mass-pollination are recommended.
Loneliness in pregnant and postpartum people and parents of children aged five years or younger: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Kent-Marvick Jacqueline , Simonsen Sara , Pentecost Ryoko , McFarland Mary M.
Published: September 2020

Background The experience of loneliness during pregnancy and in new parenthood has not been targeted and developed as a program of research, despite evidence indicating that the incidence of loneliness is highest in those aged 16 to 24, and that loneliness rises during transitional periods. The scarcity of parenthood-loneliness inquiries leaves a gap in our understanding of new parenthood and its effects on the health and well-being of parents and their children. Here, a scoping review protocol will be presented to address this gap. The objective of this study will be to summarize the current knowledge on loneliness experienced during pregnancy and by parents during the postpartum period through the first five years of the child’s life.Methods A scoping review protocol was designed following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework. We will include all types of literature in English, including all study designs, reviews, opinion articles, dissertations, reports, books, and grey literature. To be considered for inclusion, sources should focus on loneliness in pregnant persons, postpartum people, and parents of children five years or younger. We will search the following electronic databases (from inception onwards): MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Dissertations & Theses Global, Sociological Abstracts, Scopus, and Web of Science. Grey literature will be identified searching the British governmental website gov.uk, the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness, the Campaign to End Loneliness, and the British Red Cross’s Action on Loneliness websites. Two reviewers, working independently of each other, will screen the titles and abstracts of the articles returned by the searches, then screen the selected full-text articles, and extract data. A third reviewer will cast the deciding vote in case no consensus is reached. Results will be given in narrative form, mapped, and illustrated.Discussion This scoping review will capture the state of the current literature on loneliness in pregnancy and new parenthood. Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. We anticipate that the study will identify gaps and make recommendations for future areas of study and related interventions. The protocol is available on Open Science Framework at DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/BFVPZ.
Factors associated with changes in adequate antenatal care visits among pregnant women aged 15-49 years in Tanzania from 2004 to 2016.
Authors: KASAGAMA ELIZABETH , Todd Jim , Renju Jenny
Published: September 2020

Background: Antenatal care (ANC) is crucial for the health of the mother and the unborn child as it delivers highly–effective health interventions that can prevent maternal and newborn deaths and morbidity. In 2002, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended a minimum of four ANC visits for a pregnant woman with a positive pregnancy during the entire gestational period. Tanzania has sub-optimal adequate (four or more) ANC visits and the trend has been fluctuating over time. An understanding on the factors that have been contributing to the fluctuating trend over years is crucial in increasing the proportions of pregnant women attaining adequate ANC visits in Tanzania.Methods: The study used secondary data from Tanzania Demographic Health Survey (TDHS) from 2004 to 2016. The study included 17976 women aged 15-49 years. Data were analyzed using stata version 13. Categorical and continuous variables were summarized using descriptive statistics and using the weighted proportions. A Poisson regression analysis was done to determine factors associated with adequate antenatal. A multivariable Poisson decomposition analysis was done to determine factors associated with changes in adequate ANC visits among pregnant women in Tanzania from 2004 to 2016.Results: The overall proportion of women who had adequate ANC visits in 2004/05, 2010 and 2015/16 was 62%, 43% and 51% respectively. The identified determinants of adequate ANC visits were: early ANC initiation, zones, having more than one child, being aged 20 years and above, wanting pregnancy later, belonging to a richer and richest wealth quintile, having secondary and higher education, reporting distance to health facility not a big problem and watching TV at least once per week. Comparing 2004/05 and 2010 surveys, changes in the population structure contributed 4.2% of changes in adequate antenatal care visits while changes in coefficients contributed 95.8% of the changes. Also, comparing 2015/16 to 2010 surveys, changes in population structure and coefficients contributed 66.2% and 33.8% respectively. Conclusion: Early ANC initiation has greatly contributed to increased proportion of pregnant women who attain four or more ANC visits overtime. More effort should focus on pregnant women to initiate ANC in the first trimester in order to increase proportion of women with adequate ANC visit.
Community Engagement and Building Trust to Resolve Ethical Challenges during Humanitarian Crises: Experience from the CAGED Study
Authors: Yimer Getnet , Gebreyes Wondwossen , Havelaar Arie , Yousuf Jemal , McKune Sarah , Mohammed Abdulmuen , O’Mathúna Dónal
Published: September 2020

Background According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre report on global human displacement, Ethiopia has the highest number of newly displaced people forced to flee their homes. Displaced people have arrived in other regions, sometimes leading to conflict. Several regions in Ethiopia experience on-going ethnic tensions and violence between tribes, which leaves smallholder farmers suspicious of any outside activities in their locale, assuming other ethnic groups may harm them. Changes in the central Ethiopian government have also led to suspicion of non-local agencies. The Campylobacter Genomics and Enteric Dysfunction (CAGED) research project’s objective is to improve the incomes, livelihoods and nutrition of smallholder farmers and was conducted during this period of increasing violence. The project aims to assess the impact of reducing exposure to chicken excreta on young children’s gut health and growth. This paper does not report empirical findings from CAGED, but is part of a series that aims to identify challenges in humanitarian research and reports on mitigation strategies during this research. Discussion This research is important to determine whether Campylobacter infection in chicken’s contributes to illness and stunting in children. However, violence against other researchers in different parts of Ethiopia led to mistrust and lack of engagement by the community with the researchers. Some reactions were so hostile that the team was fearful about returning to some households. As a result, the team designed strategies to respond, including establishing two types of community advisory boards. One used pre-existing village elder structures and another was composed of village youth. Data collection team members received training in principles of ethics, consent, and crisis management, and were provided on-going support from local and international principal investigators and the study’s ethics advisor.Conclusion The hostility and mistrust led to fear among the data collectors. These and the resulting strategies to address them resulted in delays for the research. However, the interventions taken resulted in successful completion of the field activities. Moreover, the lessons learned from this project are already being implemented with other projects being conducted in various parts of Ethiopia.
The Impact of Writing on Academic Performance for Medical Students
Authors: Kim Songeui , Yang Ji Won , Lim Jaeseo , Lee Seunghee , Ihm Jungjoon , Park Jooyong
Published: September 2020

Background

Since the 1970s, writing has been widely used in classroom settings. Writing enhances learning, but there are limited studies that prove its effectiveness, especially in the medical education setting. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to investigate the effect of writing on medical students’ academic performance.

Methods

An experiment was conducted with 139 medical students from Seoul National University College of Medicine. They were randomly assigned to three study conditions: self-study (SS), expository writing (EW), and argumentative writing (AW). Each group studied the given material by the method they were assigned, and they were tested on their understanding and transfer of knowledge.

Results

The results showed that the two writing groups displayed better performance than the SS group in transfer type items, while there was no difference in scores between the EW and AW group. However, the three groups showed no significant difference in their scores for rote-memory type items . Also, there was a positive correlation between writing score and transfer type items in the AW group.

Conclusions

This study provides empirical evidence for writing to be adopted in medical education for greater educational benefits. Our findings indicate that writing can enhance learning and higher-order thinking, which are critical for medical students.
What is the impact of rural-to-urban migration on exclusive breastfeeding: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Yin Xiaohan , Zhao Chen , Yang YuMei , Shi HuiFeng , Wu TianChen , Xie JiaLei , Niu JieQiong , Wang XiaoLi , Fang Jin
Published: September 2020

Background: Breastfeeding is a well-established and recommended intervention for better development of infants. In China, less than one third of infants under 6 months of age are being exclusively breastfed. Maternal rural-to-urban migration contributes to these low rates of breastfeeding practices. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of breastfeeding practices and associated factors among rural-to-urban migrant children and local children with infants aged 0-12 months in China, 2018.Methods: Data were collected from a population-based cross-sectional survey in 2018 that included 6995 infants from 8 urban areas (4 metropolis and 4 medium sized/small cities) in China with available measures of breastfeeding. The prevalence of breastfeeding practices was calculated by maternal migrant status and logistic regression was conducted to examine the association between the prevalence of breastfeeding practices and maternal migrant status, after adjusting for social-demographic characteristics, mother-infant health information and supportive information. For exclusive breastfeeding, we calculated the prevalence and its association with maternal rural-to-urban migration, stratified by maternal education level, maternal resident place and maternal ethnicity, respectively. Results: The overall prevalence of ever breastfeeding, predominant breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding and age-appropriate breastfeeding (exclusive breastfeeding of infants under 6 months of age and complementary feeding from 6 to 12 months of age) was 97.51%, 29.84%, 59.89% and 45.07%, respectively. Rural-to-urban migrant children were less likely to be exclusively breastfed compared to local children (AOR=0.81, 95% CI 0.68, 0.95). Stratified by different social-demographic variables, a negative association between exclusive breastfeeding and rural-to-urban migration was only found in the group with high education level, in the group living in metropolis and in the group of minorities, respectively. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of breastfeeding practices was low in both rural-to-urban migrant children and local children. Besides common strategies, special approaches should be provided for migrants with high education, living in metropolis and being minorities.
Control of Panama disease of banana by intercropping with Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum Rottler): cultivar differences
Authors: Li Zhen-Fang , Wang Tong , He Chenling , Cheng Kelin , Zeng Rensen , Song Yuanyuan
Published: September 2020

Panama disease (Fusarium wilt disease) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense race 4 (FOC) severely threatens banana (Musa spp.) production worldwide. Intercropping of banana with Allium plants has shown a potential to reduce Panama disease. In this study, six cultivars of Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum Rottler) were selected to compare their differences in antifungal activity and active compounds. Three cultivars Duokang Fujiu 11, Fujiuhuang 2, and Duokang Sijiqing with higher levels of antifungal compounds were further used for intercropping with banana in the pots and field to compare their effects on growth and disease incidence of banana. The six cultivars showed significant differences in antifungal activity against FOC mycelia growth in both leaf volatiles and aqueous leachates. The aqueous leachates displayed stronger antifungal activity than the volatiles. FJH cultivar showed the best inhibitory effect among all six cultivars. Contents of three main antifungal compounds dipropyl trisulfide (DPT), dimethyl trisulfide (DMT), and 2-methyl-2-pentenal (MP) in volatiles and aqueous leachates varied considerably among cultivars. Pot and field experiments showed that intercropping with three selected Chinese chive cultivars significantly improved banana vegetative growth, increased photosynthetic characteristics and yield but decreased disease incidence of Panama disease.Our results indicate that intercropping with Chinese chive shows potential to reduce banana Panama disease and selection of appropriate cultivars is vital for effective disease control.
Genomic profile of MYCN non-amplified neuroblastoma and potential for immunotherapeutic strategies in neuroblastoma
Authors: Lee Eunjin , Lee Ji Won , Lee Boram , Park Kyunghee , Shim Joonho , Yoo Keon Hee , Koo Hong Hoe , Sung Ki Woong , Park Woong-Yang
Published: September 2020

Background: MYCN amplification is the most important genomic feature in neuroblastoma (NB). However, limited studies have been conducted on the MYCN non-amplified NB including low- and intermediate-risk NB. Here, the genomic characteristics of MYCN non-amplified NB were studied to allow for the identification of biomarkers for molecular stratification.Results: Fifty-eight whole exome sequencing (WES) and 48 whole transcriptome sequencing (WTS) samples of MYCN non-amplified NB were analysed. Forty-one patients harboured WES and WTS pairs. In the MYCN non-amplified NB WES data, maximum recurrent mutations were found in MUC4 (26%), followed by RBMXL3 (19%), ALB (17%), and MUC16 and SEPD8 (14% each). Two gene fusions, CCDC32-CBX3 (10%) and SAMD5-SASH1 (6%), were recurrent in WTS analysis, and these fusions were detected mostly in non-high-risk patients with ganglioneuroblastoma histology. Analysis of risk-group-specific biomarkers showed that several genes and gene sets were differentially expressed between the risk groups, and some immune-related pathways tended to be activated in the high-risk group. Mutational signatures 6 and 18, which represent DNA mismatch repair (MMR) associated mutations, were commonly detected in 60% of the patients. In the tumour mutation burden (TMB) analysis, four patients showed high TMB (> 3 mutations/Mb), and had mutations in genes related to either MMR or homologous recombination. Excluding four outlier samples with TMB > 3 Mb, high-risk patients had significantly higher levels of TMB compared with the non-high-risk patients.Conclusions: This study provides novel insights into the genomic background of MYCN non-amplified NB. Activation of immune-related pathways in the high-risk group and the results of TMB and mutational signature analyses collectively suggest the need for further investigation to discover potential immunotherapeutic strategies for NB.
Meta-Analysis of Association between CT-based Features and Tumor Spread Through Air Spaces in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yin Qifan , Wang Huien , Cui Hongshang , Wang Wenhao , Yang Guang , Qie Peng , Xun Xuejiao , Han Shaohui , Liu Huining
Published: September 2020

Objective：Spread through air space (STAS) is a novel invasive pattern of lung adenocarcinoma and is also a risk factor for recurrence and worse prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma after sublobar resection. The aims of this study are to evaluate the association between computed tomography (CT)-based features and STAS for preoperative prediction of STAS in lung adenocarcinoma, eventually, which could help us choose appropriate surgical type. Methods：Systematic research was conducted to search for studies published before September 1, 2019. The association between CT-based features of radiological tumor size＞2cm、pure solid nodule、 part-solid nodule or Percentage of solid component(PSC)＞50% and STAS was evaluated. According to rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eight studies including 2,385 patients published between 2015 and 2018 were finally enrolled in our meta-analysis.Results：Our results clearly depicted that there is no significant relationship between radiological tumor size＞2cm and STAS with the combined OR of 1.47(95% CI:0.86-2.51). Meta-analysis of 3 studies showed that pure solid nodule in CT image were more likely to spread through air spaces with pooled OR of 3.10(95%CI2.17-4.43). Meta-analysis of 5 studies revealed the part-solid nodule in CT image may be more likely to appear STAS in adenocarcinoma (ADC) (combined OR:3.10,95%CI:2.17-4.43). PSC＞50% in CT image was a significant independent predictor in the diagnosis of STAS in ADC from our meta-analysis with combined OR of 2.95(95%CI:1.88-4.63).Conclusion：In conclusion, The CT-based features of pure solid nodule、part-solid nodule、PSC＞50% are promising imaging biomarkers for predicting STAS in ADC and may substantially influence the choice of surgical type. In future, more studies with well-designed and large-scale are needed to confirm the conclusion.
Video-Based Interviewing in Medicine: Protocol for a Scoping Review
Authors: Selvam Rajajee , Hu Richard , Musselman Reilly , Raiche Isabelle , Moloo Husein
Published: September 2020

Background: Careers in healthcare involve an extensive interview process as transitions are made from one level of training to the next. For physicians, interviews mark the gateway from entrance into medical school, acceptance into residency, fellowships, and subsequent job opportunities. Previous literature outlining the costs associated with face-to-face interviews and concerns regarding the climate crisis has triggered an interest in video-based interviews. Barriers to transitioning away from in person interviews include concerns regarding lack of rapport between applicants and interviewers, and applicants being less able to represent themselves. In a new era ushered in by Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) where many of us have utilized virtual meetings more than any prior time both personally and for work, we wanted to consolidate the current literature on the use of video-based interviews in healthcare and summarize the findings. Methods: A scoping review will be conducted to explore the benefits and limitations of video-based interviews for both applicants and interviewers within healthcare fields, as well as the perceived barriers associated with transitioning away from face-to-face interviews. The scoping review methodology outlined by Arksey and O’Malley will be implemented. The search strategy developed by the authors in collaboration with an academic health sciences librarian will be conducted across four electronic databases (Embase, Ovid Medline, Cochrane Central, and PsycInfo) from 1947 to March 30, 2020 and supplemented by review of the grey literature and reference lists of included studies. The study selection process will be documented in accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and reasons for exclusion following full text review will be recorded. The extracted data will be analyzed using quantitative and qualitative analysis. The protocol for this scoping review has been registered in Open Science Framework. Discussion: Despite previous literature on the costs associated with face-to-face interviews, there has been hesitancy with transitioning to video-based interviews due to concerns of lack of rapport between applicants and interviewers, and applicants being less able to represent themselves. While these limitations have been explored in previous studies, a succinct review of the current literature to guide effective restructuring of the interview process is lacking. With our scoping review, we hope to fill this gap in the literature to better understand barriers to transitioning from face-to-face interviews and directions for future research.
Research on Underground Location Algorithm Based on Random Forest and Environmental Factor Compensation
Authors: Qiao Xin , Chang Fei
Published: September 2020

Aiming at the problems of poor location accuracy caused by the harsh and complex underground environment, long strip roadway, limited wireless transmission and sparse anchor nodes, an underground location algorithm based on random forest and environmental factors compensation is proposed. Firstly, the network model of underground wireless access point (AP) and tunnel environment are analyzed, and the fingerprint location algorithm is constructed. And then the Received Signal Strength (RSS) is analyzed by Kalman Filter algorithm in the offline sampling and real-time positioning stage. Meanwhile, the target speed constraint condition is introduced to reduce the error caused by environmental factors. The experimental results show that the algorithm proposed solves the problem of insufficient location accuracy and large fluctuation affected by environment when the anchor nodes are sparse. At the same time, the average location accuracy reaches three meters, which can satisfy the application of underground rescue, activity track playback, disaster monitoring and positioning. It has high application value in complex underground environment.
Mapping the prevalence of the neglected sexual side effects after prostate cancer treatment and the questionnaires used in their screening: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Roscher Pierre , Wyk Jacqueline M Van
Published: September 2020

Background: Interventions to treat early prostate cancer (PCa) can leave men with debilitating sexual side effects. The cluster of side effects referred to as the neglected sexual side effects (NSSE) may remain permanent, undiagnosed and untreated because men are hesitant to disclose them. Questionnaires offer a discreet way into the discussion, subsequent diagnosis and possible treatment of the NSSE. This study will be conducted to map the evidence about the prevalence of the neglected sexual side effects (NSSE) after PCa treatment, and use of questionnaires in its diagnosis and screening. Methods: This systematic scoping review will involve searching the following electronic databases: PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar. Following title searching, two-independent reviewers will conduct screening of abstracts and full articles. Eligibility criteria will guide the screenings. Data will be extracted from the included studies, and the emerging themes will be analysed. The review team will analyse the implications of the findings concerning the research question and aim of the study. The Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT) will be employed for quality appraisal of included studies.Discussion: We anticipate finding a number of studies that describe the prevalence of NSSE after early PCa treatment and that report on using questionnaires to screen for the presence of symptoms including orgasm-associated incontinence, urinary incontinence during sexual stimulation, altered perceptions of orgasm, orgasm associated pain, penile shortening, and penile deformity. The study findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal, peer presentations, as well as presentations at relevant conferences.
Concurrent ipsilateral Tillaux fracture and medial malleolar fracture in adolescents: management and outcome
Authors: yuan quanwen , Guo Zhixiong , Wang Xiaodong , Dai Jin , Zhang Fuyong , Fang Jianfeng , Yin Chunhua , Yu Wentao , Zhen Yunfang
Published: September 2020

Background: The concurrent ipsilateral Tillaux fracture with medial malleolar fracture in adolescents commonly suffer from high-energy injury, making treatment more difficult. The aim of this study was to discuss the mechanism on injury, diagnosis and treatment of this complex fracture pattern. Methods: The charts and radiographs of six patients were reviewed. The function was assessed by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scores. Results: The mean age at operation was 12.8 years. The mean interval from injury to operation was 7.7 days. Five Tillaux fractures and all medial malleolar fractures were shown on AP plain radiographs. One Tillaux fracture and two cases with avulsion of posterolateral tibial aspect were confirmed in axial computerized tomography. Talar subluxation laterally with medial space widening in three, and syndesmotic disruption in one. There were five patients sustaining ipsilateral distal fibular fractures. All fractures, except nonunion in two medial malleolar fractures and in one Tillaux fracture, healed within 6-8 weeks. There was one case of osteoarthritis of ankle joint. The average AOFAS score was 88.7. Conclusions: Computerized tomography is helpful in identifying the fracture pattern. Anatomic reduction and internal fixation of Tillaux and medial malleolar fracture was recommended to restore the articular surface congruity and ankle stability.
Placental Growth Factor for the Prognosis of Women with Preeclampsia (fullPIERS model extension): Context matters
Authors: Ukah U. Vivian , Payne Beth A , Hutcheon Jennifer , Chappell Lucy , Seed Paul , Conti-Ramsden Frances Inez , Ansermino J Mark , Magee Laura A , von Dadelszen Peter
Published: September 2020

Background: The fullPIERS risk prediction model was developed to identify which women admitted with confirmed diagnosis of preeclampsia are at highest risk of developing serious maternal complications. The model discriminates well between women who develop (vs. those who do not) adverse maternal outcomes. It has been externally validated in several populations. We assessed whether placental growth factor (PlGF), a biomarker associated with preeclampsia risk, adds incremental value to the fullPIERS model. Methods: Using a cohort of women admitted into tertiary hospitals in well-resourced settings (the USA and Canada), between May 2010 to February 2012, we evaluated the incremental value of PlGF added to fullPIERS for prediction of adverse maternal outcomes within 48 hours after admission with confirmed preeclampsia. The discriminatory performance of PlGF and the fullPIERS model were assessed in this cohort using the area under the receiver`s operating characteristic curve (AUROC) while the extended model (fullPIERS +PlGF) was assessed based on net reclassification index (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) performances. Results: In a cohort of 541 women delivered shortly (<1 week) after presentation, 8.1% experienced an adverse maternal outcome within 48hrs of admission. Prediction of adverse maternal outcomes was not improved by addition of PlGF to fullPIERS (NRI: -8.7, IDI -0.06). Discriminatory performance (AUROC) was 0.67 [95%CI: 0.59-0.75] for fullPIERS only and 0.67 [95%CI: 0.58-0.76]) for fullPIERS extended with PlGF, a performance worse than previously documented in fullPIERS external validation studies (AUROC > 0.75). Conclusions: While fullPIERS model performance may have been affected by differences in healthcare context between this study cohort and the model development and validation cohorts, future studies are required to confirm whether PlGF adds incremental benefit to the fullPIERS model for prediction of adverse maternal outcomes in preeclampsia in settings where expectant management is practiced.
Tunicamycin promotes metastasis through upregulating endoplasmic reticulum stress induced GRP78 expression in thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Guohong , Kang Jianqin , Xun Guanghui , Wei Jing , Wang Xiaoguang , Jing Xiaorui , Zhang Lan , Yang Aili , Wang Kai , Wang Jue , Wang Li , Hou Junfeng , Liu Qingquan , Jiao Kai , Gao Bin
Published: September 2020

Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common type of endocrine malignancy tumor and the incidence of it is increasing over years. Conventional surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are difficult to improve the significant effects of it due to aggression and metastasis of poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC) and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), which are regarded as the most malignant type of TC. Glucose-regulated protein (GRP78) is the key molecule of tumor growth, apoptosis and metastasis. However, the underlying mechanisms of GRP78 on TC still require discussion. This study aimed to explore the role of GRP78 and its potential mechanism in TC.Results: GRP78 expression was increased in TC tissues when compared with adjacent normal tissues. Besides, down-regulation of GRP78 significantly inhibited the metastatic and proliferative ability of ATC cells in in vitro studies. In addition, tunicamycin-induced ER stress up-regulated the expression of GRP78, PERK and XBP1 as well as reversed the metastatic ability of GRP78 in ATC cells. Bioinformatics and statistical analysis of gene ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways for RNA-sequencing data from si-GRP78 and si-control showed that GRP78 might regulate the ability of metastasis through extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in ATC cells, as well as the expression of ECM components such as COL1A1 and MMP13 were shown to be highly relevant to ATC. The analysis of GEPIA database confirmed high genomic amplification of MMP13 and COL1A1 in TC tissues and showed correlation with TNM stage. Further western blotting analysis showed that MMP13 might be the target of GRP78 in ATC cells and ER stress could activate the expression of MMP13 that was suppressed by the GRP78 depletion.Conclusions: GRP78 acts as an important regulator of metastasis under ER stress. In addition, the function of GRP7 might be mediated by ECM remodeling in ATC cells, implicating it as a therapeutic target in TC.
Development and validation of oral chemotherapy self-management scale
Authors: Peng Qi , Wu Wanying
Published: September 2020

Background: With the increase of oral chemotherapy drugs, patients receiving cancer treatment prefer oral chemotherapy versus intravenous, given equal efficacy and toxicity. However, they need to take an active part in their care, which is vital with home-based oral therapy, therefore the self-management is important for patients with oral chemotherapy. Unfortunately, the development of self-management assessment tools for oral chemotherapy still lags behind. Methods: The OCSMS item pool was formulated based on literature review and semi-structured interviews, An initial scale containing 5 dimensions and 38 items was constructed through research seminar, Delphi survey and pilot testing. To assess the validity and reliability, We recruited 261 patients from cancer hospital in China.Results: A 36-item scale was developed with five dimensions identified through factor analysis: daily life management, symptom management, medication management, emotional cognitive management and social support. Cronbach’s coefficient Alpha, split-half coefficient, test-retest reliability and S-CVI/UA scores were 0.929, 0.773, 0.966 and 0.833, respectively, indicating that OCSMS has good reliability and validity.Conclusions: The OCSMS is a valid, reliable measurement method of the self-management ability of patients with oral chemotherapy. The OCSMS shows potential as a tool to ensure the safety of patients with cancer. The OCSMS may help evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to improve the self-management ability of patients.
The ultimate preoperative C-reactive protein to albumin ratio is a prognostic factor for survival after pancreatic cancer resection
Authors: Wijk Laura van , de Klein Guus W. , Kanters Matthijs A. , Patijn Gijs A. , Klaase Joost M.
Published: September 2020

Background Emerging evidence indicates that an elevated C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CRP/albCAR) ratio may be associated with a poor prognosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Further evidence showing that this ratio has significant prognostic value could contribute to current prediction models and clinical decision-making.Methods Data were analysed of consecutive patients who underwent curative pancreatic resection between 2013 and 2018 and were histologically diagnosed with PDAC. We investigated the relation between the ultimate preoperative CRP/albCAR ratio and overall survival.Results A total of 163 patients were analysed. Median overall survival was 18 months (IQR 9–36). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a higher CRP/albCAR ratio (HR 1.745, P = 0.004), a higher age (HR 1.062, P < 0.001), male sex (HR 1.977, P = 0.001), poor differentiation grade (HR 2.812, P < 0.001), and positive para-aortic lymph node(s) (HR 4.489, P < 0.001) were associated with a lower overall survival. Furthermore, a CRP/albCAR ratio ≥ 0.2 was associated with decreased overall survival (16 vs. 26 months, P = 0.003). Conclusion We demonstrated that an ultimate preoperative elevated CRP/albCAR ratio is an independent indicator of decreased overall survival after resection for PDAC. The preoperative CRP/albCAR ratio may be of additional value to the current prediction models.
The correlation between dietary fat quality indices and lipid profile with Atherogenic Index of Plasma in obese and non-obese Volunteers: a cross-sectional descriptive-analytic case-control study
Authors: javardi Maryam sadat Mousavi , Madani Zahra , Karandish Majid , Movahedi Ariyo , Abbasi Behnood
Published: September 2020

Background and aim: Abnormalities in lipid metabolism are commonly observed in patients who were obese. Alongside dyslipidemia, one of the markers in predicting the risk of cardiovascular disease is the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), which is related to dietary intake. Healthy fat quality indices might affect on AIP. The purpose of this study is to find the possible relationship between dietary fat quality, and AIP and comparison of these indices among obese and non-obese volunteers.Methods: This study was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytic case-control study with 157 normal and overweight and obese volunteers (n=71 normal, Age: 38.90±10.976 vs n=86 overweight/obese, Age: 38.60±9.394) in the age range of 18-65 years. Food intake was measured using FFQ, anthropometric indices (weight, height, body mass index and waist to hip ratio), body composition (visceral fat level, total body water, body fat mass), and lipid profile were measured.Results: Based on the present results, comparable biochemical parameters including TC (P=0.580), TG (P=0.362), LDL (P=0.687) and HDL (P=0.151) among overweight/obese volunteers as compared to normal ones were noticed. Effects of dietary fat quality, including Atherogenicity (AI) and Thrombogenicity (TI) hypo/hypercholesterolemic ratio (h/H), the Cholesterol-Saturated Fat Index (CSI) showed significantly higher AI (P=0.012) in the overweight/obese group as compared to the normal group. Whereas, h/H (P=0.034) and ω-6/ω-3 ratio (P=0.004) were significantly higher in normal-weight volunteers. There was a positive correlation between AI, TI, CSI, SFA, MUFA, PUFA and ω-6/ω-3 ratio with AIP and negative correlation between h/H with AIP in both groups. Despite the significances of these correlations no strong relation was observed by doing multiple regression among normal and overweight/obese groups (R2=0.210, R2=0.387).Conclusions: In summary, the present work proposes a direct relationship between dietary fat quality, increased BMI, and lipid abnormalities with AIP. Nevertheless, further large-scale studies are required to sustain a clear conclusion in this wish.
Associations between autism spectrum disorder and eating disorders with and without self-induced vomiting: an empirical study
Authors: Numata Noriko , Nakagawa Akiko , Yoshioka Kazuko , Isomura Kayoko , Matsuzawa Daisuke , Setsu Rikukage , Nakazato Michiko , Shimizu Eiji
Published: September 2020

Background: Although approximately 23% of anorexia nervosa (AN) patients have concomitant autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it is clinically difficult to determine ASD coexistence in patients with eating disorders. Restrictive AN is more common in younger patients, and self-induced vomiting usually appears during adolescence/young adulthood with the collapse of control. Some patients state that they “would never want to vomit” and are tolerant of weight gain even if they start overeating. We aimed to understand the essential difference between who vomit and who do not vomit and believed that this difference might be related to the ASD tendency. In this study, we hypothesised that the absence of self-induced vomiting may be associated with the presence of ASD and aimed to assess the presence of autism spectrum disorder tendencies in each eating disorder. Clarifying this association helps to consider the coexistence of ASD in the clinical setting and can lead to the next detailed ASD evaluation, and as a result, helps to determine the appropriate treatment and support individually. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 43 females aged 15–45 years who attended Chiba University Hospital between 2012 and 2016 using the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire and Autism Spectrum Quotient to quantify the severity of the eating disorder and to identify whether ASD tendency were present. Results: There was no difference in the AQ between AN-BP and AN-R. The significant difference in the AQ score between BN and BED was clear. Of the four ED subtypes, BED had the highest ASD tendency. In the four groups, AN-BP had the longest duration of illness and was significantly longer than AN-R. Conclusions: There was a difference in the AQ score by the presence or absence of self-induced vomiting. The present results help us understand why only those with binge eating disorder (BED) do not vomit even if they gain weight and why BED is admissive even if there is weight gain. Further Therefore, evaluating patients for the presence of self-induced vomiting when assessing them for EDs may help us understand the association with ASD tendencies.
Accessing health services in India: Experiences of seasonal migrants returning to Nepal.
Authors: Adhikary Pratik , Aryal Nirmal , Dhungana Raja Ram , KC Radheyshyam Krishna , Regmi Pramod Raj , Wickramage Kolitha Prabhash , Duigan Patrick , Inkochasan Montira , Sharma Guna Nidhi , Devkota Bikash , Teijlingen Edwin van , Simkhada Padam
Published: September 2020

Background: Migration to India is a common livelihood strategy for poor people in remote Western Nepal. To date, little research has explored the degree and nature of healthcare access among Nepali migrant workers in India. This study explores the experiences of returnee Nepali migrants with regard to accessing healthcare and the perspectives of stakeholders in the government, support organizations, and health providers working with migrant workers in India. Methods: Six focus group discussions (FGDs) and 12 in-depth interviews with returnee migrants were conducted by trained moderators in six districts in Western Nepal in late 2017. A further 12 key persons working in the health and education sector were also interviewed. With the consent of the participants, FGDs and interviews were audio-recorded. They were then transcribed and translated into English and the data were analysed thematically.Results: The interviewed returnee migrants worked in 15 of India’s 29 states, most as daily wage labourers. Most were from among the lowest castes so called-Dalits. Most migrants had had difficulty accessing healthcare services in India. The major barriers to access were the lack of insurance, low wages, not having an Indian identification card tied to individual biometrics so called: Aadhaar card. Other barriers were unsupportive employers, discrimination at healthcare facilities and limited information about the locations of healthcare services. Conclusions: Nepali migrants experience difficulties in accessing healthcare in India. Partnerships between the Nepali and Indian governments, migrant support organizations and relevant stakeholders such as healthcare providers, government agencies and employers should be strengthened so that this vulnerable population can access the healthcare they are entitled to.
3D printed mask extenders as a supplement to isolation masks to relieve posterior auricular discomfort: an innovative 3D printing response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: O’Connor Zachary , Huellewig Daniel , Sithiyopasakul Peeti , Morris Jason , Gan Connie , Ballard David H
Published: September 2020

Purpose: Many commonly used mask designs are secured by elastic straps looping around the posterior auricular region. This constant pressure and friction against the skin may contribute to increased wearer pain, irritation, and discomfort. The purpose of this work is to report a modified 3D printed mask extender to alleviate discomfort and increase mask wearability by relieving posterior auricular pressure from isolation masks.Methods : Our institutional review board designated this project as non-human research and exempt. As part of resourcing 3D printing laboratories along with individual 3D printers to provide resources to healthcare workers, mask extenders were printed to relieve posterior auricular pressure from individuals wearing isolation masks. The authors modifed an existing mask extender, increasing its length with accompanying peripheral rungs for isolation mask securement. 3D printing was performed with Ultimaker S5 (Ultimaker B.V.; Geldermalsen, Netherlands) and CR-10 (Creality3D; Shenzhen, China) 3D printers using polylactic acid filaments. The author’s modified extended mask extenders were printed and freely delivered to healthcare workers (physicians, nurses, technologists, and other personnel) at the authors’ institution.Results: The final mask extender design was printed with the two 3D printers with a maximum 7 straps printed simultaneously on each 3D printer. Mean print times ranges from 105 minutes for the Ultimaker S5 printer and 150 minutes for the CR-10. 475 mask extenders were delivered to healthcare workers at the authors’ institution, with the demand far exceeding the available supply.Conclusion: We offer a modification of a 3D printed mask extender design that decreases discomfort and increases the wearability of isolation mask designs with ear loops thought to relieve posterior auricular skin pressure and ability to control strap tension. The design is simple, produced with inexpensive material (polylactic acid), and have been well-received by healthcare providers at our institution
Association between sitting time and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in South Korean population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Joo Jae Hong , Kim Hwi Jun , Park Eun-Cheol , Jang Sung-In
Published: September 2020

Background: To examine the association between sitting time and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among South Koreans aged ≥20 years. Methods: Data from the 2016–2018 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used for the analysis. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease was diagnosed according to a hepatic steatosis index of >36. Sitting time was categorized into as Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 using the age-adjusted quartile with Q4 being the longest sitting hour. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between sitting time and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in South Korean population. Results: A total of 13,518 participants were enrolled. The odds for having NAFLD in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 (sitting hours) were 1.07 (CI: 0.88-1.31), 1.16 (CI: 1.96-1.41), and 1.34 (CI: 1.11-1.61), respectively. The odds ratio increased in magnitude with longer hours of sitting time (test for trend: P-value = 0.0002). Conclusion: Advising physical exercises and discouraging sedentary activities may help to alleviate NAFLD among the South Korean population.