bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery and validation of PZP as a novel serum biomarker for screening lung adenocarcinoma in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Yang Jiayue , Yang Cheng , Shen Hong , Wu Wenjun , Tian Zhen , Xu Qinghua , Cao Cuiping , Ye Shugao , Ban Le , Tong Xin , Mei Jie
Published: March 2021

Background

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have an increased risk of suffering from various malignancies. This study aimed to identify specific biomarkers that can detect lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) in T2DM patients for the early diagnosis of LAC.

Methods

The clinical information of hospitalized T2DM patients diagnosed with various cancers was collected by reviewing medical records in Wuxi People’s Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University from January 1, 2015, to June 30, 2020. To discover diagnostic biomarkers for early-stage LAC in the T2DM population, 20 samples obtained from 5 healthy controls, 5 T2DM patients, 5 LAC patients and 5 T2DM patients with LAC (T2DM + LAC) were subjected to sequential windowed acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion mass spectrum (SWATH-MS) analysis to identify specific differentially-expressed proteins (DEPs) for LAC in patients with T2DM. Then, these results were validated by parallel reaction monitoring MS (PRM-MS) and ELISA analyses.

Results

Lung cancer was the most common malignant tumor in patients with T2DM, and LAC accounted for the majority of cases. Using SWATH-MS analysis, we found 13 proteins to be unique in T2DM patients with early LAC. Two serum proteins were further validated by PRM-MS analysis, namely, pregnancy-zone protein (PZP) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3). Furthermore, the diagnostic values of these proteins were validated by ELISA, and PZP was validated as a novel serum biomarker for screening LAC in T2DM patients.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that PZP could be used as a novel serum biomarker for the identification of LAC in T2DM patients, which will enhance auxiliary diagnosis and assist in the selection of surgical treatment at an early stage.
Cost and cost-effectiveness of indoor residual spraying with pirimiphos-methyl in a high malaria transmission district of Mozambique with high access to standard insecticide-treated nets
Authors: Alonso Sergi , Chaccour Carlos J. , Wagman Joseph , Candrinho Baltazar , Muthoni Rodaly , Saifodine Abuchahama , Saute Francisco , Robertson Molly , Zulliger Rose
Published: March 2021

Background

As malaria cases increase in some of the highest burden countries, more strategic deployment of new and proven interventions must be evaluated to meet global malaria reduction goals.

Methods

The cost and cost-effectiveness of indoor residual spraying (IRS) with pirimiphos-methyl (Actellic®300 CS) were assessed in a high transmission district (Mopeia) with high access to pyrethroid insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), compared to ITNs alone. The major mosquito vectors in the area were susceptible to primiphos-methyl, but resistant to pyrethoids. A decision analysis approach was followed to conduct deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses in a theoretical cohort of 10,000 children under five years of age (U5) and 10,000 individuals of all ages, separately. Model parameters and distributions were based on prospectively collected cost and epidemiological data from a cluster-randomized control trial and a literature review. The primary analysis used health facility-malaria incidence, while community cohort incidence and cross-sectional prevalence rates were used in sensitivity analyses. Lifetime costs, malaria cases, deaths and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) were calculated to determine the incremental costs per DALY averted through IRS.

Results

The average IRS cost per person protected was US$8.26 and 51% of the cost was insecticide. IRS averted 46,609 (95% CI 46,570–46,646) uncomplicated and 242 (95% CI 241–243) severe lifetime cases in a theoretical children U5 cohort, yielding an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of US$400 (95% CI 399–402) per DALY averted. In the all-age cohort, the ICER was higher: US$1,860 (95% CI 1,852–1,868) per DALY averted. Deterministic and probabilistic results were consistent. When adding the community protective effect of IRS, the cost per person protected decreased (US$7.06) and IRS was highly cost-effective in children U5 (ICER = US$312) and cost-effective in individuals of all ages (ICER = US$1,431), compared to ITNs alone.

Conclusion

This study provides robust evidence that IRS with pirimiphos-methyl can be cost-effective in high transmission regions with high pyrethroid ITN coverage where the major vector is susceptible to pirimiphos-methyl but resistant to pyrethroids. The finding that insecticide cost is the main driver of IRS costs highlights the need to reduce the insecticide price without jeopardizing effectiveness.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02910934 (Registered 22 September 2016). https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02910934?term=NCT02910934&draw=2&rank=1
Interleukin 10 and interleukin 10 receptor in paediatric inflammatory bowel disease: from bench to bedside lesson
Authors: Krawiec Paulina , Pawłowska-Kamieniak Agnieszka , Pac-Kożuchowska Elżbieta
Published: March 2021

Background

The differences between adults and children in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) phenotype, severity, complications, co-morbidities, and response to the therapy resulted in the extraction of paediatric IBD. It has been revealed that the substantial role in the development of IBD in children under 6 years of age plays a single genetic mutation (monogenic IBD). On the other hand, in older children and adolescents IBD is usually associated with number of interactions between susceptibility loci (polygenic IBD).

Main body

Until now there have been described about 60 monogenic defects which affect the variety of immune mechanisms in IBD pathogenesis including epithelial barrier, function of neutrophil granulocytes and phagocytes, T- and B-cell selection and activation, immune inhibitory mechanisms, or apoptosis. Il-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine which modulates innate and adaptive immunity affecting expression of pro-inflammatory molecules and function of the variety of immune cells. Patients with identified defects in Il-10 pathway manifest with life-threating colitis with perianal lesions which occurs within first months of life. Allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is curative therapy in children with Il-10 signalling defects.

Conclusion

Clinical awareness of Il-10 signalling defects enables early recognition and prompt management of the disease.
Exploratory factor analysis of PROMIS-29 V1.0, PROMIS Global Health and the RAND SF-36 from chiropractic responders attending care in a practice-based research network
Authors: Alcantara Joel , Whetten Andrew , Zabriskie Cameron , Jones Sharad
Published: March 2021

Background

The SF-36 questionnaire is perhaps the most widely used quality of life instrument in the world today, while the PROMIS instruments continue to gain popularity. Given their continued use in chiropractic research and practice, we examined their latent domain structure using exploratory factor analysis (EFA).

Methods

To uncover latent structures of a large series of measured variables from the PROMIS-29, PROMIS Global Health and RAND SF-36 domains, we defined a factor analysis model represented by the equation $$X = \mu + \Lambda F +\epsilon$$

X
=
μ
+
Λ
F
+
ϵ

, where $$X = (X_{1} , \ldots ,X_{p} )^{T}$$

X
=

(

X
1

,
…
,

X
p

)

T

is the matrix of random vectors corresponding to the domains with a mean of $$\mu$$
μ
and the covariance matrix $$\Sigma ,$$

Σ
,

$$\Lambda = \{ l_{jk} \}_{pxm}$$

Λ
=

{

l

jk

}

pxm

denotes the matrix of factor loadings, $$F = (F_{1} , \ldots ,F_{m} )^{T}$$

F
=

(

F
1

,
…
,

F
m

)

T

denotes the matrix of unobserved latent variables that influence the collection of domains and $$\epsilon = (_{1} , \ldots ,_{p} )^{T}$$

ϵ
=

(
1

,
…

,
p

)

T

is the vector of latent error terms. The matrix of item responses X was the only observed quantity with restrictions such that variable scores were uncorrelated and of unit variance with the latent errors being independent with the variance vector $$\psi$$
ψ
. The inherited structure of X was expressed simply by $$\Sigma = \Lambda \Lambda^{T} + \psi$$

Σ
=
Λ

Λ
T

+
ψ

. Orthogonal and oblique rotations were performed on the $$\Lambda$$
Λ
matrix with this equation to improve clarity of the latent structure. Model parameters $$\left( {\mu ,\Lambda ,\psi } \right)$$

μ
,
Λ
,
ψ

were optimized using the method of minimum residuals. Each EFA model was constructed with Pearson and Polychoric correlation.

Results

For the PROMIS-29, domains were confirmed to be strongly correlated with Factor 1 (i.e., mental health) or Factor 2 (i.e., physical health). Satisfaction with participation in social roles was highly correlated with a 3rd factor (i.e., social health). For the PROMIS Global Health Scale, a 2-factor EFA confirmed the GPH and GMH domains. For the RAND SF-36, an apparent lack of definable structure was observed except for physical function which had a high correlational relationship with Factor 2. The remaining domains lacked correlation with any factors.

Conclusion

Distinct separation in the latent factors between presumed physical, mental and social health domains were found with the PROMIS instruments but relatively indistinguishable domains in the RAND SF-36. We encourage continued efforts in this area of research to improving patient reported outcomes.
Quality of life in young and middle age adult temporomandibular disorders patients and asymptomatic subjects: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pigozzi Lucas Bozzetti , Pereira Duziene Denardini , Pattussi Marcos Pascoal , Moret-Tatay Carmen , Irigaray Tatiana Quarti , Weber João Batista Blessmann , Grossi Patrícia Krieger , Grossi Márcio Lima
Published: March 2021

Aims

To compare the difference in the quality of life between temporomandibular disorders (TMD) patients and non-TMD subjects diagnosed with the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) or the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD).

Methods

Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE) and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) databases were searched in studies published in English and Portuguese. The search was performed by two independent reviewers in duplicate. A manual search and the gray literature were also included. The inclusion criteria were clinical studies that used the RDC/TMD axis I and quality of life with standard questionnaires in young and middle-aged adult population (18–55 years). The data were analyzed quantitatively by combining the results in a meta-analysis using forest plots. The measure of effect used was the standardized mean difference (SMD) in depression levels. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate the quality of the studies. The publication bias was assessed by funnel plots. The initial search included 806 articles without duplications.

Results

Twenty-four articles were included in the final systematic review. Of these, 9 were included in the meta-analysis, where it was shown a statistically significant in all axis I groups: (a) global TMD—groups I, II and III combined, N = 3829, SMD (95% CI) = 1.06 (0.65–1.51), p = 0.000; (b) group I—muscle disorders, N = 3,056, SMD (95% CI) = 0.82 (0.45–1.18), p = 0.000; (c) group II—disc displacements, N = 3,184, SMD (95% CI) = 0.59 (0.26–0.91), p = 0.000; and (d) group III—arthralgia/arthritis/arthrosis, N = 2781, SMD (95% CI) = 0.98 (0.59–1.36), p = 0.000. When compared to controls.

Conclusions

Quality of life is affected in all axis I TMD patients, especially in groups I and III with higher pain intensity and disability as compared to group II.
Evaluating antenatal breastmilk expression outcomes: a scoping review
Authors: Foudil-Bey Imane , Murphy Malia S. Q. , Dunn Sandra , Keely Erin J. , El-Chaâr Darine
Published: March 2021

Background

Antenatal breastmilk expression (aBME) is recommended by some healthcare providers to improve lactation, breastfeeding, and newborn outcomes, particularly for women with diabetes as they face unique challenges with breastfeeding. However, there is limited evidence of the potential harms and benefits of this practice. Our objective was to conduct a scoping review to map the literature describing maternal and newborn outcomes of aBME.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, British Library E-Theses Online Services (EThOS) database, OpenGrey, and Clinical trials.gov from inception to January 2020. Studies in English that reported on the effect of aBME on maternal and newborn outcomes, and the experiences of women who have engaged in the practice were included for screening. Titles, abstracts, and full-text articles were screened by two independent reviewers. A critical appraisal and clinical consultation were conducted. Key findings were extracted and summarized.

Results

We screened 659 studies and 20 met the inclusion criteria. The majority of included studies (n = 11, 55.0%) were published after 2015, and seven (35.0%) originated from Australia. Ten (50.0%) studies provided data on high-risk obstetrical populations, including those with diabetes (n = 8), overweight or obesity (n = 1), and preeclampsia (n = 1). Commonly reported outcomes included breastfeeding status at discharge or follow-up, mode of delivery, newborn blood glucose, and time to establishing full lactation. Maternal experiences were related to challenges with aBME, confidence and mastery, perceived impact, security and altruism, learning and resources, and physical symptoms as a result of aBME. The critical appraisal demonstrated limited high-quality evidence surrounding aBME.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate increasing interest in the safety, efficacy, and acceptability of aBME. Existing studies are heterogenous with variable research questions, outcomes, study designs, and methodology. The recommendations made in this review can be used to help inform  future studies evaluating aBME.
Feasibility and efficacy of a decision aid for emergency department patients with suspected ureterolithiasis: protocol for an adaptive randomized controlled trial
Authors: Schoenfeld Elizabeth M. , Poronsky Kye E. , Westafer Lauren M. , DiFronzo Brianna M. , Visintainer Paul , Scales Charles D. , Hess Erik P. , Lindenauer Peter K.
Published: March 2021

Background

Approximately 2 million patients present to emergency departments in the USA annually with signs and symptoms of ureterolithiasis (or renal colic, the pain from an obstructing kidney stone). Both ultrasound and CT scan can be used for diagnosis, but the vast majority of patients receive a CT scan. Diagnostic pathways utilizing ultrasound have been shown to decrease radiation exposure to patients but are potentially less accurate. Because of these and other trade-offs, this decision has been proposed as appropriate for Shared Decision-Making (SDM), where clinicians and patients discuss clinical options and their consequences and arrive at a decision together. We developed a decision aid to facilitate SDM in this scenario. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of this decision aid, as compared to usual care, on patient knowledge, radiation exposure, engagement, safety, and healthcare utilization.

Methods

This is the protocol for an adaptive randomized controlled trial to determine the effects of the intervention—a decision aid (“Kidney Stone Choice”)—on patient-centered outcomes, compared with usual care. Patients age 18–55 presenting to the emergency department with signs and symptoms consistent with acute uncomplicated ureterolithiasis will be consecutively enrolled and randomized. Participants will be blinded to group allocation. We will collect outcomes related to patient knowledge, radiation exposure, trust in physician, safety, and downstream healthcare utilization.

Discussion

We hypothesize that this study will demonstrate that “Kidney Stone Choice,” the decision aid created for this scenario, improves patient knowledge and decreases exposure to ionizing radiation. The adaptive design of this study will allow us to identify issues with fidelity and feasibility and subsequently evaluate the intervention for efficacy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04234035. Registered on 21 January 2020 – Retrospectively Registered
Synergistic effects of type I PRMT and PARP inhibitors against non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Dominici Claudia , Sgarioto Nicolas , Yu Zhenbao , Sesma-Sanz Laura , Masson Jean-Yves , Richard Stéphane , Raynal Noël J.-M.
Published: March 2021

Background

Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death and represents a major health burden worldwide. Current therapies for NSCLC include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted molecular agents such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors and epigenetic drugs such as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors. However, survival rates remain low for patients with NSCLC, especially those with metastatic disease. A major cause for therapeutic failure is drug resistance, highlighting the need for novel therapies and combination strategies. Given that epigenetic modulators such as protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) are frequently overexpressed in cancers, PRMT inhibitors are a promising class of cancer therapeutics. We screened a library of epigenetic and anticancer drugs to identify compounds that would synergize with MS023, a type I PRMT inhibitor, in decreasing the viability of methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP)-negative NSCLC cells.

Results

Among 181 compounds, we identified PARP inhibitors (PARPi) as having a strong synergistic interaction with type I PRMT inhibition. The combination of MS023 and the PARP inhibitor BMN-673 (Talazoparib) demonstrated strong synergistic interaction at low nanomolar concentrations in MTAP-negative NSCLC cell lines A549, SK-LU-1 and HCC4006. The re-introduction of MTAP decreased the sensitivity of the combination therapy in A549. The combination therapy resulted in elevated γ-H2AX foci indicating increased DNA damage causing decreased cell viability. Lastly, the combination therapy was effective in PARPi resistant ovarian cancer cells, suggesting that type I PRMT inhibitors could mitigate PARPi resistance, thus potentially having an important clinical impact for cancer treatment.

Conclusions

These findings identify a novel cancer drug combination therapy, which is more potent than the separate single-agent therapies. Thus, combining PARP inhibitors and type I PRMT inhibitors represents a new therapeutic opportunity for MTAP-negative NSCLC and certain cancer cells resistant to PARP inhibitors.
Imaging diagnosis of classical and new pneumoconiosis: predominant reticular HRCT pattern
Authors: Masanori Akira
Published: March 2021

Our understanding of the manifestations of pneumoconioses is evolving in recent years. Associations between novel exposures and diffuse interstitial lung disease have been newly recognized. In advanced asbestosis, two types of fibrosis are seen, probably related to dose of exposure, existence of pleural fibrosis, and the host factor status of the individual. In pneumoconiosis of predominant reticular type, nodular opacities are often seen in the early phase. The nodular pattern is centrilobular, although some in metal lung show perilymphatic distribution, mimicking sarcoidosis. High-resolution computed tomography enables a more comprehensive correlation between the pathologic findings and clinically relevant imaging findings. The clinician must understand the spectrum of characteristic imaging features related to both known dust exposures and to historically recent new dust exposures.
Transcriptional factor FoxM1-activated microRNA-335-3p maintains the self-renewal of neural stem cells by inhibiting p53 signaling pathway via Fmr1
Authors: Jia Jiaoying , Cui Yan , Tan Zhigang , Liu Min , Jiang Yugang
Published: March 2021

Background

New mechanistic insights into the self-renewal ability and multipotent properties of neural stem cells (NSCs) are currently under active investigation for potential use in the treatment of neurological diseases. In this study, NSCs were isolated from the forebrain of fetal rats and cultured to induce NSC differentiation, which was associated with low expression of the non-coding RNA microRNA-335-3p (miR-335-3p).

Methods

Loss- and gain-of-function experiments were performed in NSCs after induction of differentiation.

Results

Overexpression of miR-335-3p or FoxM1 and inhibition of the Fmr1 or p53 signaling pathways facilitated neurosphere formation, enhanced proliferation and cell cycle entry of NSCs, but restricted NSC differentiation. Mechanistically, FoxM1 positively regulated miR-335-3p by binding to its promoter region, while miR-335-3p targeted and negatively regulated Fmr1. Additionally, the promotive effect of miR-335-3p on NSC self-renewal occurred via p53 signaling pathway inactivation.

Conclusion

Taken together, miR-335-3p activated by FoxM1 could suppress NSC differentiation and promote NSC self-renewal by inactivating the p53 signaling pathway via Fmr1.
Process evaluation of E-learning in continuing medical education: evidence from the China-Gates Foundation Tuberculosis Control Program
Authors: Wang Zi-Yue , Zhang Li-Jie , Liu Yu-Hong , Jiang Wei-Xi , Tang Sheng-Lan , Liu Xiao-Yun
Published: March 2021

Background

E-learning is a growing phenomenon which provides a unique opportunity to address the challenges in continuing medical education (CME). The China-Gates Foundation Tuberculosis (TB) Control Program implemented online training for TB health workers in three provinces of China. We aim to evaluate the implementation of E-learning CME programs, analyse the barriers and facilitators during the implementation process, and to provide policy recommendations.

Methods

Routine monitoring data were collected through the project office from December 2017 to June 2019. In-depth interviews, focus group discussion with project management personnel, teachers, and trainees (n = 78), and staff survey (baseline n = 555, final n = 757) were conducted in selected pilot areas at the provincial, municipal, and county/district levels in the three project provinces (Zhejiang, Jilin, and Ningxia). Descriptive analysis of quantitative data summarized the participation, registration, and certification rates for training activities. Thematic approach was used for qualitative data analysis.

Results

By the end of June 2019, the national and provincial remote training platforms had organized 98 synchronous learning activities, with an average of 173.2 people [standard deviation (SD) = 49.8] per online training session, 163.3 people (SD = 41.2) per online case discussion. In the pilot area, 64.5% of TB health workforce registered the asynchronous learning platform, and 50.1% obtained their professional certifications. Participants agreed that E-learning CME was more economical, has better content as well as more flexible work schedules. However, the project still faced challenges in terms of unmet learning needs, disorganized governance, insufficient hardware and software, unsupported environment, and lack of incentive mechanisms.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that it’s feasible to conduct large scale E-learning CME activities in the three project provinces of China. Training content and format are key facilitators of the program implementation, while the matching of training supply and demand, organizational coordination, internet technology, motivations, and sustainability are key barriers.
Dog breeds and body conformations with predisposition to osteosarcoma in the UK: a case-control study
Authors: Edmunds Grace L. , Smalley Matthew J. , Beck Sam , Errington Rachel J. , Gould Sara , Winter Helen , Brodbelt Dave C. , O’Neill Dan G.
Published: March 2021

Background

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive and painful bone neoplasm in dogs. Previous studies have reported epidemiological associations suggesting that large body mass, long bone length and the genetics of certain breeds including the Rottweiler are associated with elevated osteosarcoma risk. However, these studies were often limited by selection bias and confounding factors, and have rarely offered insights into breed-associated protection for osteosarcoma. The current study includes 1756 appendicular and axial osteosarcoma cases presenting to VPG Histology (Bristol, UK) compared against a control population of 905,211 dogs without osteosarcoma from primary care electronic patient records in the VetCompass™ dataset.

Methods and study design

Retrospective, case-control study. Multivariable logistic regression analysis explored associations between demographic risk factors (including breed, chondrodystrophy, age, sex/neuter status, skull-shape, and body mass) and osteosarcoma of all anatomical sites.

Results

We identified several breeds with increased and reduced odds of osteosarcoma. At highest risk were the Rottweiler and Great Dane, with > 10 times the odds of osteosarcoma compared with crossbreds, and the Rhodesian Ridgeback, which has not featured in previous lists of at-risk breeds for osteosarcoma, and had an odds ratio of 11.31 (95% confidence interval 7.37–17.35). Breeds at lowest risk of osteosarcoma (protected breeds) included the Bichon Frise, the French Bulldog and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, all with odd ratios of less than 0.30 compared with crossbreds. Body mass was strongly associated with osteosarcoma risk; dogs over 40 kg exhibited osteosarcoma odds of 45.44 (95% confidence interval 33.74–61.20) compared with dogs less than 10 kg. Chondrodystrophic breeds had an osteosarcoma odds ratio of 0.13 (95% confidence interval 0.11–0.16) compared with non-chondrodystrophic breeds.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence of strong breed-associated osteosarcoma risk and protection, suggesting a genetic basis for osteosarcoma pathogenesis. It highlights that breeds selected for long legs/large body mass are generally overrepresented amongst at-risk breeds, whilst those selected for short leg length/small body mass are generally protected. These findings could inform genetic studies to identify osteosarcoma risk alleles in canines and humans; as well as increasing awareness amongst veterinarians and owners, resulting in improved breeding practices and clinical management of osteosarcoma in dogs.
Associations between serum calcium, 25(OH)D level and bone mineral density in adolescents
Authors: Pan Kaiyu , Tu Rongliang , Yao Xiaocong , Zhu Zhongxin
Published: March 2021

Backgrounds

It is important to improve our understanding of the roles of calcium and vitamin D in bone health for preventing osteoporosis. We aimed at exploring the associations between serum calcium, vitamin D level, and bone mineral density (BMD) in adolescents included in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001–2006.

Methods

Weighted multivariate linear regression models were used to estimate the associations of serum calcium, 25(OH)D level with total BMD. Smooth curve fitting was used to explore the potential non-linear relationship.

Results

A total of 5990 individuals aged between 12 and 19 years were included in this study. The fully-adjusted model showed serum calcium positively correlated with total BMD. However, an inverted U-shaped relationship was found when we performed the smooth curve fitting method, and the inflection point was calculated at 9.6 mg/dL using the two-piecewise linear regression model. In contrast, there was a positive correlation between serum 25(OH)D and total BMD after adjusting for potential confounders.

Conclusions

The present study revealed a positive correlation between serum 25(OH)D level and total BMD, and an inverted U-shaped relationship between serum calcium and total BMD.
Rooted in Place, Constructed in Movement
Authors: Hernández Sonia
Published: March 2021

Since the turn of the twentieth century, men and women from the greater Mexican borderlands have shared labor concerns, engaged in labor solidarities, and employed activist strategies to improve their livelihoods. Based on findings from archival research in Mexico City, Washington, DC; Texas; Tamaulipas; and Nuevo León and by engaging in transnational methodological and historiographical approaches, this article takes two distinct but related cases of labor solidarities from the early twentieth century to reveal the class and gendered complexities of transnational labor solidarities. The cases of Gregorio Cortez, a Mexican farmer and immigrant from Tamaulipas living and working in Texas in 1901, and Caritina Piña, a Tamaulipas-born woman engaged in anarcho-syndicalism in the 1920s, reveal the potential of cross-class and gendered solidarities and underscore how a variety of social contexts informed and shaped labor movements. Excavating solidarities from a transnational perspective while exposing important limitations of the labor movement sheds light on the gendered, racial, and class complexities of such forms of shared struggle; but, equally important, reminds us of how much one can learn about the power of larger, global labor movements by closely examining the experiences of those residing on nations’ edges.
The homotetramerization of a GPCR transmits the 20-hydroxyecdysone signal and increases its entry into cells for insect metamorphosis
Authors: Kang Xin-Le , Li Yan-Xue , Li Yan-Li , Wang Jin-Xing , Zhao Xiao-Fan
Published: March 2021

Animal steroid hormones initiate signaling by passive diffusion into cells and binding to their nuclear receptors to regulate gene expression. Animal steroid hormones can initiate signaling via G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs); however, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, we show that a newly discovered ecdysone-responsive GPCR, ErGPCR-3, transmits the steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) signal by binding 20E and promoting its entry into cells in the lepidopteran insect Helicoverpa armigera. Knockdown of ErGPCR-3 in larvae caused delayed and abnormal pupation, inhibited remodeling of the larval midgut and fat body, and repressed 20E-induced gene expression. Also, 20E induced both the interaction of ErGPCR-3 with G proteins and rapid intracellular increase in calcium, cAMP and protein phosphorylation. ErGPCR-3 was endocytosed by GPCR kinase 2-mediated phosphorylation, and interacted with β-arrestin-1 and clathrin, to terminate 20E signaling under 20E induction. We found that 20E bound to ErGPCR-3 and induced the ErGPCR-3 homodimer to form a homotetramer, which increased 20E entry into cells. Our study revealed that homotetrameric ErGPCR-3 functions as a cell membrane receptor and increases 20E diffusion into cells to transmit the 20E signal and promote metamorphosis.
Oxygen supply capacity breathes new life into critical oxygen partial pressure (Pcrit)
Authors: Seibel Brad A. , Andres Alyssa , Birk Matthew A. , Burns Alexandra L. , Shaw C. Tracy , Timpe Alexander W. , Welsh Christina J.
Published: March 2021

The critical oxygen partial pressure (Pcrit), typically defined as the PO2 below which an animal's metabolic rate (MR) is unsustainable, is widely interpreted as a measure of hypoxia tolerance. Here, Pcrit is defined as the PO2 at which physiological oxygen supply (α0) reaches its maximum capacity (α; µmol O2 g−1 h−1 kPa−1). α is a species- and temperature-specific constant describing the oxygen dependency of the maximum metabolic rate (MMR=PO2×α) or, equivalently, the MR dependence of Pcrit (Pcrit=MR/α). We describe the α-method, in which the MR is monitored as oxygen declines and, for each measurement period, is divided by the corresponding PO2 to provide the concurrent oxygen supply (α0=MR/PO2). The highest α0 value (or, more conservatively, the mean of the three highest values) is designated as α. The same value of α is reached at Pcrit for any MR regardless of previous or subsequent metabolic activity. The MR need not be constant (regulated), standardized or exhibit a clear breakpoint at Pcrit for accurate determination of α. The α-method has several advantages over Pcrit determination and non-linear analyses, including: (1) less ambiguity and greater accuracy, (2) fewer constraints in respirometry methodology and analysis, and (3) greater predictive power and ecological and physiological insight. Across the species evaluated here, α values are correlated with MR, but not Pcrit. Rather than an index of hypoxia tolerance, Pcrit is a reflection of α, which evolves to support maximum energy demands and aerobic scope at the prevailing temperature and oxygen level.
Clinical quantitative MRI and the need for metrology
Authors: Cashmore Matt T , McCann Aaron J , Wastling Stephen J , McGrath Cormac , Thornton John , Hall Matt G
Published: March 2021

MRI has been an essential diagnostic tool in healthcare for several decades. It offers unique insights into most tissues without the need for ionising radiation. Historically, MRI has been predominantly used qualitatively, images are formed to allow visual discrimination of tissues types and pathologies, rather than providing quantitative measurements. Increasingly, quantitative MRI (qMRI) is also finding clinical application, where images provide the basis for physical measurements of, e.g. tissue volume measures and represent aspects of tissue composition and microstructure. This article reviews some common current research and clinical applications of qMRI from the perspective of measurement science. qMRI not only offers additional information for radiologists, but also the opportunity for improved harmonisation and calibration between scanners and as such it is well-suited to large-scale investigations such as clinical trials and longitudinal studies. Realising these benefits, however, presents a new kind of technical challenge to MRI practioners. When measuring a parameter quantitatively, it is crucial that the reliability and reproducibility of the technique are well understood. Strictly speaking, a numerical result of a measurement is meaningless unless it is accompanied by a description of the associated measurement uncertainty. It is therefore necessary to produce not just estimates of physical properties in a quantitative image, but also their associated uncertainties. As the process of determining a physical property from the raw MR signal is complicated and multistep, estimation of uncertainty is challenging and there are many aspects of the MRI process that require validation. With the clinical implementation of qMRI techniques and its continued expansion, there is a clear and urgent need for metrology in this field.
Frequency of incidental ocular findings during pre-employment screening at a tertiary care Eye hospital
Authors: Khan Summaya , Rafique Aisha , Zafar Omar
Published: March 2021

Objective: To highlight the prevalence of incidentally discovered ocular findings harvested amongst candidates of different age groups presented for pre-employment screening in a tertiary care eye hospital.

Methods: This Cross sectional prospective study was conducted in Armed Forces Institute of Ophthalmology, Rawalpindi, from Jun 2018 to Dec 2019. Data was collected using non-probability consecutive sampling technique. All candidates who appeared for medical fitness examination were included. Candidates belonged to various regions of Pakistan. Complete ophthalmic checkup including visual acuity, best corrected visual acuity, anterior and posterior segment examination was performed. The data analysis was done by IBM SPSS 2.0 software.

Results: One thousand and five hundred (1500) candidates underwent ophthalmic medical fitness examination during Jun 2018 to Dec 2019, out of these 86% (1290) were males and 14% (210) were females. Mean age of the candidates was 23.14 ± 5.66 years. The most common incidental ocular findings were amblyopia 24.6% (369), strabismus 10% (150), cataract 7.3% (110), macular scar 6.5% (100) and colour vision deficiencies 5.5% (82).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that out of total patients, 77% (1095) were found to be asymptomatic and 23% (405) were symptomatic. The study provides frequency for prevailing diseases and can help in improvement of eye care screening.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.3.3177

How to cite this:Khan S, Rafique A, Zafar O. Frequency of incidental ocular findings during preemployment screening at a tertiary care Eye hospital. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(3):746-750. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.3.3177

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Cost-effectiveness of cryptococcal antigen screening at CD4 counts of 101–200 cells/µL in Botswana
Authors: Tenforde Mark W. , Muthoga Charles , Ponatshego Ponego , Ngidi Julia , Mine Madisa , Greene Greg , Jordan Alexander , Chiller Tom , Larson Bruce A. , Jarvis Joseph N.
Published: March 2021

Background: Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening in individuals with advanced HIV reduces cryptococcal meningitis (CM) cases and deaths. The World Health Organization recently recommended increasing screening thresholds from CD4 ≤100 cells/µL to ≤200 cells/µL. CrAg screening at CD4 ≤100 cells/µL is cost-effective; however, the cost-effectiveness of screening patients with CD4 101–200 cells/µL requires evaluation.

Methods: Using a decision analytic model with Botswana-specific cost and clinical estimates, we evaluated CrAg screening and treatment among individuals with CD4 counts of 101–200 cells/µL. We estimated the number of CM cases and deaths nationally and treatment costs without screening. For screening we modeled the number of CrAg tests performed, number of CrAg-positive patients identified, proportion started on pre-emptive fluconazole, CM cases and deaths. Screening and treatment costs were estimated and cost per death averted or disability-adjusted life year (DALY) saved compared with no screening.

Results: Without screening, we estimated 142 CM cases and 85 deaths annually among individuals with CD4 101–200 cells/µL, with treatment costs of $368,982. With CrAg screening, an estimated 33,036 CrAg tests are performed, and 48 deaths avoided (1,017 DALYs saved).  While CrAg screening costs an additional $155,601, overall treatment costs fall by $39,600 (preemptive and hospital-based CM treatment), yielding a net increase of $116,001. Compared to no screening, high coverage of CrAg screening and pre-emptive treatment for CrAg-positive individuals in this population avoids one death for $2440 and $114 per DALY saved. In sensitivity analyses assuming a higher proportion of antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve patients (75% versus 15%), cost per death averted was $1472; $69 per DALY saved.

Conclusions: CrAg screening for individuals with CD4 101–200 cells/µL was estimated to have a modest impact, involve additional costs, and be less cost-effective than screening populations with CD4 counts ≤100 cells/µL. Additional CrAg screening costs must be considered against other health system priorities.
Sekret Chloris, czyli o greckich antroponimach w "Pieśniach" Horacego
Authors: Zalewska-Jura Hanna
Published: March 2021

The Secret of Chloris. On the Greek Anthroponyms in Horace’s Odes

The trend of poesis docta in Horace’s Odes manifests itself, inter alia, in the sphere of anthroponomy, as many of the names introduced by the poet into his works are of Greek origin. These are pseudonyms, the meaning of which refers to topography (e.g. Lydia, Lycidas, Lyca), to Greek literary tradition (e.g. Neobule, Telephus) and pseudonyms in which there are allusions essential for reading the sense of the work or its part (e.g. Glycera, Lalage, Chloe, Foloe, Chloris, Myrtale, Pyrrus). In poetic translations into Polish, these meaningful nomina propria are not translated, which means that the recipient of the translation is not conscious of the allusion hidden behind the name, and thus is deprived of the possibility of decoding a vastrange of subtexts. The article discusses possible translation solutions that can meet the expectations of various target groups of Polish readers, especially those who do not have linguistic preparation in the field of ancient languages.
THE TRANSLATABILITY OF COMPOUND WORDS IN THE HUNGER GAMES IN ENGLISH AND INDONESIAN
Authors: Estorina Dwi Apcita , Oktavianti Ikmi Nur
Published: March 2021

English is used as a foreign language in some countries since it is one of international languages. In Indonesia, English is not the mother tongue of the majority of occupants, so the translation is needed to solve the communication problem between two different languages. This research entitled “The Translatability of Compound Words in The Hunger Games in English and Indonesian Versions” is intended to find out the English compound words equivalently translatable into Indonesian found in the novel and to describe the causes of the non-equivalent translation.This research belongs to descriptive qualitative research as the research design. The research object of this research is compound and the data of this research is the compound words of English language and Indonesian language. As for the data source, The Hunger Games novel is used as the data source of the research. In collecting the data, the researcher uses observing method. In observing method, the researcher reads, underlines, and transcribes the compound words of English and Indonesian language found in the novel. In data analysis, the researcher identifies the data based on English language and Indonesian language compound words.The analysis of the research shows that there are English compound words that can be equivalently translatable into Indonesian and some cannot. The non-equivalent translation of the compounds has the highest frequency that is 29 cases. It happens because the translator translated the English compound words into words and phrases. The frequency of equivalent translation is 21 cases in which the translator translated the English compound words into Indonesian compound. As for the causes, there are some factors triggering the inability to translate equivalently and one of the most influencing ones is cultural aspect.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CULTURE AS A BASIC TEACHING ENGLISH LANGUAGE IN CHILDHOOD IN INDONESIA
Authors: Sari Ima Frafika
Published: March 2021

This research aims at revealing: (1) the important of teaching culture in English language; (2) the important teaching culture for childhood; (3) the teaching English is important for childhood; (4) the teaching English is important in Indonesia; and how the age and duration of education in Indonesia. It is kinds of qualitative research which is aimed at revealing the important of teaching English language for early childhood in Indonesia. There are still lack of research about the important of teaching culture in English language, therefore, this research is significant tobe conducted. The finding of the research can be described as follows: First, cultural learning in the foreign language classroom touches three spheres: empathy and understanding, knowledge, and communicative skill. Second, learners will understand aspects of the foreign culture in the traditions of social anthropology. Third, young children being educated in English that is highlighted in this volume refers to the widespread belief that ‘younger is better’ when it comes to language learning. Fourth, the objective of English language teaching in Indonesia is to equip students with a working knowledge of the lan­guage. The last, in Indonesia the age begin to study in formal education is from the age 7 years old, and the duration is for 12 years.
IMPLEMENTING EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING IN WRITING CLASS
Authors: Yulianti Ria , Nisa Achyana Izzatun
Published: March 2021

The objective of this paper is to describe the implementing of experiential leaning in writing class. Writing is the process of expressing ideas into a good writing and composing the ideas into a proper arrangement. Writing is one of language abilities that is taught in the school. The students should be mastered some text types in writing class, such as descriptive text. Descriptive text is a text which says what a particular thing, person or place is like. In the writing process, the students face some problems in writing, such as finding ideas, developing ideas, and arranging ideas into good composition. In this case, the teacher uses a new method to solve that problems. The teachers use experiential learning to enhance the students’ writing. Experiential learning is a learning method where the educators engage the students to learn through experience directly to enhance students’ knowledge and skills. It is also called learning by doing. The steps of implementing experiential learning are doing, reflecting, analyzing, generating and application. In descriptive writing, the students can describe the object easily because they use real experience. The students also feel more enthusiasm in learning process. Therefore, hopefully the students can expand their writing in good construction.
HOW DOES GROUP DISCUSSION MINIMIZE ON TASK BEHAVIOR
Authors: Utami Surti Nur , Wahyuni Rina
Published: March 2021

This research investigated the students learning behavior during the Reading class. The aimed of this study was improving students’ on-task behavior using group discussion. Furthermore, this study reveals the students’ attitudes who mostly were not directing their eyes gaze at the teacher and the instructional activity. For instance, the students did not pay attention toward appropriate instructional material and they were looking elsewhere. Thus, that behave was classified as off-task. While On-task behavior was defined as activity that complied with instructions given by the teacher for that lesson. Based on the previous matter, the use of group discussion during the classroom activities is definitely a fascinating phenomenon that can improve their on-task behavior during the learning activities in the class, especially reading.
THE ASSESSMENT ON ESP WRITING FOR FISHERY DEPARTMENT STUDENTS
Authors: Widihartanti Theresia
Published: March 2021

The application of ESP for college students is very crucial since they are led to have skills that are apt with the needs of working environment. The learning using ESP method must be implemented using the well-designed assessment that will encourage fishery students to have high self-esteem to explore their experience in fishery world. To what extends that the assessment will be appropriate for the writing papers of fishery students? The research method used was classroom action research to elevate students’ ideas and observation research that was conducted in the field since the activities conducted needed a series of events. There were some findings: 1) An apt topic had to be chosen; 2) An experience learned that supported the data; 3) The result of the series of activities that was reported; and 4) The application of scoring rubric based on the previous activities that assessed the final writing papers. The fishery department students as the subject of the research was in their fourth semester since they had to learned prior knowledge needed in fishery field.