bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of One-Year Change in How Youth Perceive Their Weight
Authors: Patte Karen A. , Qian Wei , Leatherdale Scott T.
Published: May 2020

Overall, perceptions of being at “about the right weight” appear advantageous for youth physical and mental health, regardless of BMI classification, whereas perceptions at either extreme (overweight or underweight) may negatively impact health behaviours and mental health. Instead of considering weight misperceptions as problematic, some researchers have proposed that underestimations of weight status may offer resiliency among individuals with overweight or obesity. Promoting “about right” WPs and preventing change to overweight or underweight perceptions may offer an effective public health strategy for supporting youth health over time. However, limited prospective evidence exists on factors that shape perceptions of weight status over time. The current study examined modifiable predictors of one-year change in weight perception among youths. We used 2-year linked data of 18,112 grade 9–12 students from Year 3 (Y3:2014–2015) and Year 4 (Y4:2015–2016) of the COMPASS study. Generalized Estimating Equation models tested screen use, physical activity, and bullying victimization as predictors of change from perceptions of “about the right weight” to “overweight” or “underweight” perceptions, adjusting for Y3 covariates (body mass index, ethnicity, and grade) and school cluster. Results support the value of team sports among females and resistance exercise among males as protective against changes to overweight or underweight perceptions over one year. Also, various forms of bullying victimization predicted overweight perceptions in males and females. Watching TV/movies or messaging/texting for over 2 hours/day was associated with overweight and underweight perceptions, respectively, in females only. Playing video/computer games for over 2 hours/day was associated with overweight perceptions in males and underweight perceptions in females. Findings support the potential of bullying prevention, limiting certain screen use, and supporting engagement in team sports for females and resistance exercise for males as strategies to maintain perceptions of being at “about the right weight.”
Changes of Laboratory Cardiac Markers and Mechanisms of Cardiac Injury in Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Li Lin , Zhou Qi , Xu Jiancheng
Published: May 2020

Some patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) show abnormal changes in laboratory myocardial injury markers, suggesting that patients with myocardial injury have a higher mortality rate than those without myocardial injury. This article reviews the possible mechanism of myocardial injury in patients with COVID‐19. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) affects the patients with COVID‐19 in aspects of direct infection of myocardial injury, specific binding to functional receptors on cardiomyocytes, and immune‐mediated myocardial injury. During hospitalization, the monitoring of laboratory myocardial injury markers in patients of COVID‐19 should be strengthened.
β‐Sitosterol Alleviates Inflammatory Response via Inhibiting the Activation of ERK/p38 and NF‐κB Pathways in LPS‐Exposed BV2 Cells
Authors: Sun Yanan , Gao Ling , Hou Wei , Wu Jie
Published: May 2020

Neurodegenerative disease is a disease state in which neurons in the spinal cord and brain are lost. Studies show that sustained neuroinflammatory reactions release toxic factors, damage neurons, and lead to neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, inhibiting neuroinflammation may be an effective measure to alleviate neurodegenerative diseases. Microglia is an important participant in the neuroinflammatory response. β‐Sitosterol (BS) is widely found in various vegetable oils, nuts, and other plant seeds. Studies have found that BS has a wide range of anti‐inflammatory effects in peritoneal macrophages and other peripheral tissues. However, no studies have reported the effect of BS that impacts microglia activity. Herein, we further study the effect of BS on impacts microglia activity. Firstly, BV2, a murine microglial cell, was treated with different concentrations of BS prior to stimulation of LPS, and then the inflammatory mediators and the expression of related signaling molecules were tested. The inflammatory response results illustrated that BS treatment can reduce the LPS‐induced expression of inflammatory mediators (interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), inducible nitric oxide (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and cyclooxygenase‐2(COX‐2)). The related signaling pathway analysis demonstrated that BS treatment can inhibit the LPS‐induced activation of p38, ERK, and NF‐κB pathways. To sum up, the results demonstrated that BS impacts microglia activity via repressing the activation of p38, ERK, and NF‐κB pathways.
High‐Throughput Sequencing and Exploration of the lncRNA‐circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA Network in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Yang Fang , Chen Yang , Xue Zhiqiang , Lv Yaogai , Shen Li , Li Kexin , Zheng Pingping , Pan Pan , Feng Tianyu , Jin Lina , Yao Yan
Published: May 2020

Objective. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA) are receiving increasing attention in diabetes research. However, there are still many unknown lncRNAs and circRNAs that need further study. The aim of this study is to identify new lncRNAs and circRNAs and their potential biological functions in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods. RNA sequencing and differential expression analysis were used to identify the noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and mRNAs that were expressed abnormally between the T2DM and control groups. The competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network revealed the mechanism of lncRNA and circRNA coregulating gene expression. The biological functions of lncRNA and circRNA were analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. The candidate hub mRNAs were selected by the protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network and validated by using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Results. Differential expression analysis results showed that 441 lncRNAs (366 upregulated and 75 downregulated), 683 circRNAs (354 upregulated and 329 downregulated), 93 miRNAs (63 upregulated and 30 downregulated), and 2923 mRNAs (1156 upregulated and 1779 downregulated) were identified as remarkably differentially expressed in the T2DM group. The ceRNA regulatory network showed that a single lncRNA and circRNA can be associated with multiple miRNAs, and then, they coregulate more mRNAs. Functional analysis showed that differentially expressed lncRNA (DElncRNA) and differentially expressed circRNA (DEcircRNA) may play important roles in the mTOR signaling pathway, lysosomal pathway, apoptosis pathway, and tuberculosis pathway. In addition, PIK3R5, AKT2, and CLTA were hub mRNAs screened out that were enriched in an important pathway by establishing the PPI network. Conclusions. This study is the first study to explore the molecular mechanisms of lncRNA and circRNA in T2DM through the ceRNA network cofounded by lncRNA and circRNA. Our study provides a novel insight into the T2DM from the ceRNA regulatory network.
[Retracted] CircEIF4G2 Promotes Tumorigenesis and Progression of Osteosarcoma by Sponging miR‐218
Authors: Lin Erhu , Liu Shuai , Xiang Wei , Zhang Hongbo , Xie Chaofan
Published: May 2020

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a key role in regulating the tumorigenesis and development of human cancers, including osteosarcoma (OS). Of note, the molecular mechanism underlying the progression of OS has remained largely unclear. The present study identified that a novel circRNA circEIF4G2 was upregulated in OS tissues and cells. Moreover, we constructed a circEIF4G2‐mediated ceRNA network and revealed that circEIF4G2 was involved in regulating multiple cancer pathways, such as the EGFR signaling pathway, the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway, and the ErbB signaling pathway. Loss‐of‐function assays showed that circEIF4G2 knockdown significantly suppressed OS cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Mechanically, we found that circEIF4G2 could directly bind to miR‐218, and miR‐218 mediated the effect of circEIF4G2 knockdown on OS progression. In conclusion, the present study showed that circEIF4G2 could be a potential biomarker for OS.
Gut Microbiome Alterations Precede Cerebral Amyloidosis and Microglial Pathology in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chen Yijing , Fang Lihua , Chen Shuo , Zhou Haokui , Fan Yingying , Lin Li , Li Jing , Xu Jinying , Chen Yuewen , Ma Yingfei , Chen Yu
Published: May 2020

Emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiome actively regulates cognitive functions and that gut microbiome imbalance is associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. However, the changes in gut microbiome composition in AD and their association with disease pathology, especially in the early stages, are unclear. Here, we compared the profiles of gut microbiota between APP/PS1 transgenic mice (an AD mouse model) and their wild‐type littermates at different ages by amplicon‐based sequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA genes. Microbiota composition started diverging between the APP/PS1 and wild‐type mice at young ages (i.e., 1–3 months), before obvious amyloid deposition and plaque‐localized microglial activation in the cerebral cortex in APP/PS1 mice. At later ages (i.e., 6 and 9 months), there were distinct changes in the abundance of inflammation‐related bacterial taxa including Escherichia‐Shigella, Desulfovibrio, Akkermansia, and Blautia in APP/PS1 mice. These findings suggest that gut microbiota alterations precede the development of key pathological features of AD, including amyloidosis and plaque‐localized neuroinflammation. Thus, the investigation of gut microbiota might provide new avenues for developing diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AD.
Effects of Natural Products on Bacterial Communication and Network‐Quorum Sensing
Authors: Yang Min , Meng Fanying , Gu Wen , Li Fengjiao , Tao Yating , Zhang Zhengyang , Zhang Fan , Yang Xingxin , Li Jingping , Yu Jie
Published: May 2020

Quorum sensing (QS) has emerged as a research hotspot in microbiology and medicine. QS is a regulatory cell communication system used by bacterial flora to signal to the external environment. QS influences bacterial growth, proliferation, biofilm formation, virulence factor production, antibiotic synthesis, and environmental adaptation. Through the QS system, natural products can regulate the growth of harmful bacteria and enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria, thereby improving human health. Herein, we review advances in the discovery of natural products that regulate bacterial QS systems.
Current Trends in Research on Bone Regeneration: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Huang Xin , Liu Xu , Shang Yuli , Qiao Feng , Chen Gang
Published: May 2020

Background. Bone regeneration is a frequent research topic in clinical studies, but macroscopic studies on the clinical application of bone regeneration are rare. We conducted a bibliometric analysis, using international databases, to explore the clinical application and mechanism of bone regeneration, to highlight the relevant research hotspots and prospects. Material and Methods. Scientific reports on bone regeneration published during 2009–2019 were retrieved from PubMed. VOSviewer for cooccurrence keywords and authorship analysis. BICOMB software was used to retrieve high‐frequency words and construct a text/coword matrix. The matrix was inputted into gCLUTO software, managed by biclustering analysis, in order to identify hotspots, which could achieve mountain and matrix visualizations. The matrix was also analyzed by using Ucinet 6 software for social network analysis. A strategic diagram was used for further analysis of the research hotspots of bone regeneration by “SCIMAT” software. We searched the Web of Science for relevant articles. Results. Eighty‐nine high‐frequency major MeSH terms were obtained from 10237 articles and were divided into 5 clusters. We generated a network visualization map, an overlay visualization mountain map, and a social network diagram. Then, the MeSH terms were subdivided into 7 categories according to each diagram; current research hotspots were identified as scaffold, drug effect, osseointegration in dental implant, guided bone regeneration, factors impacting bone regeneration, treatment of bone and tissue loss, and bone regeneration in dental implants. Conclusion. BICOMB, VOSviewer, and other bibliometric tools revealed that dental implants, scaffolds, and factors impacting bone regeneration are hot research topics, while scaffolds also hold promise from the perspective of bone tissue regeneration.
Efficacy and Safety of Transurethral Laser Surgery Versus Transurethral Resection for Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Xu Jiangnan , Wang Chao , Ouyang Jun , Sun Jiale , Hu Can
Published: May 2020

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of transurethral laser surgery and transurethral resection of a bladder tumor (TURBT) for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Material and Methods: A research was carried out in Medline via PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science up to October 20, 2019, to identify articles related to transurethral laser surgery and TURBT for NMIBC. All analyses were done using RevMan5.3 and Stata14. Results: A total of 17 studies involving 2,439 participants were included. The analysis showed no significant difference in operation times (mean difference = –0.2; 95% CI –2.29 to 1.89; p = 0.85) or occurrences of urethral stricture (OR = 0.7; 95% CI 0.24–2.06; p = 0.52). Transurethral laser surgery was associated with a lower incidence of obturator nerve reflex (OR = 0.04; 95% CI 0.02–0.09; p < 0.00001) and bladder perforation (OR = 0.09; 95% CI 0.04–0.23; p < 0.00001), a higher rate of detrusor muscle acquisition (OR = 5.28; 95% CI 2.42–11.49; p < 0.0001), shorter catheterization (mean difference = –1.05; 95% CI –1.41 to –0.68; p < 0.00001) and hospitalization times (mean difference = –0.96; 95% CI –1.59 to –0.33; p = 0.003), and lower rates of bladder irrigation (OR = 0.21; 95% CI 0.13–0.35; p < 0.00001) and recurrence both at 12 months (OR = 0.66; 95% CI 0.48–0.9, p = 0.008) and at 24 months (OR = 0.6; 95% CI 0.41–0.86; p = 0.005). Conclusions: Transurethral laser surgery for NMIBC, as compared to TURBT, is associated with a lower incidence of complications, a lower recurrence rate, and faster postoperative recovery.
Diabetes Risk among Medical Students in Tabuk City, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mirghani Hyder Osman , Saleh Abdelmoneum
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Diabetes risk estimation is essential for the implementation of preventive measures. Objectives: We aimed to assess the diabetes risk among medical students in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 169 medical students in the Medical College, University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, from October 2017 to April 2018. Participants signed a written informed consent and then responded to a questionnaire modified from the Finnish and the ARABRISK diabetes score. The questionnaire consisted of eight components inquiring about age, BMI, central adiposity, fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity if found to have high blood pressure or blood sugar, and family history of diabetes mellitus. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis. Results: Out of 169 students (68% with a family history of diabetes), obesity and overweight were found in 21.3 and 26.6%, respectively, 45.6% had central adiposity, more than half were not practicing exercise daily, and 60.4% were not consuming fruits and vegetables daily. A significant percentage was found to have high blood sugar (9.5%) and high blood pressure (4.7%). The diabetes risk score was high or moderate in 16% of the students. Conclusion: Medical students in Tabuk City were at high risk for diabetes mellitus. Obesity, overweight, central adiposity, physical inactivity, and less consumption of fruits and vegetables substantially contributed to the risk. Measures to prevent obesity, improving fruit and vegetable consumption, and exercise are needed.
NT-proBNP Concentration and Early Cardiac Dysfunction in Patients Receiving Dialysis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Wen-ling , Hawley Carmel , Cho Yeoungjee , Johnson David W. , Pascoe Elaine M. , Fahim Magid ,   on behalf of the MONITOR Trial Investigations
Published: May 2020

Introduction: The significance of N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) to detect heart failure in patients with end-stage kidney diseases on dialysis is controversial. Objective: To assess whether serial measurements of NT-proBNP can predict worsening cardiac function in dialysis patients. Methods: In this prospective, longitudinal, observational cohort study, the relationship between changes in monthly plasma NT-proBNP concentrations and changes in echocardiographic indices (left ventricular global longitudinal strain [GLS] and ejection fraction [LVEF]) were analyzed in dialysis patients without symptoms of heart failure over 24 months using multilevel mixed effects models. Results: The study included 40 dialysis patients who were followed for a median period of 24 months. Logarithmically transformed baseline plasma NT-proBNP levels were correlated positively with GLS (r = 0.48, p = 0.002) and negatively with LVEF (r = –0.44, p = 0.005). Time-averaged and maximum NT-proBNP values during the echocardiogram intervals were significantly correlated with GLS and LVEF over time. Every 1-unit increase in average NT-proBNP level during the echocardiogram interval was associated with a 0.99 (95% confidence interval, 0.41–1.56) higher GLS (%) and 2.90 (1.22–4.57) lower LVEF (%). Every 1-unit increase in maximum NT-proBNP level was associated with a 0.90 (0.35–1.45) higher GLS (%) and 2.67 (1.03–4.30) lower LVEF (%). This increase in GLS indicates a reduction in systolic performance. Conclusions: Our cohort study demonstrated that serial plasma NT-proBNP concentrations may be useful for early identification of individuals with worsening cardiac function over time.
Efficacy and Safety of Glandular Flap Techniques in Surgical Treatment of Large Ductal Carcinoma in situ
Authors: Dogan Lutfi , Gulcelik Mehmet Ali
Published: May 2020

Background: It is well known that full segmentary resection can be performed using oncoplastic surgery (OPS) techniques, and the anatomic resection of the ductal system is possible. Therefore, the efficacy and safety of OPS should be investigated in the treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Patients and Methods: Patients who were diagnosed as pure DCIS and underwent surgical treatment and follow-up were retrospectively evaluated. Patients who underwent OPS and conventional breast-conserving surgery (BCS) were included in the study. The number of patients who required an intervention after the surgery and had a relapse during the follow-up period was determined in both groups. Results: There were 45 patients in the OPS group and 138 patients in the BCS group. The mean tumor size was larger in patients in the OPS group (36 ± 12 mm vs. 24 ± 8 mm, p = 0.02). Six (12.7%) patients were reoperated in the OPS group. Of these, 4 were re-excisions and 2 were mastectomies. In this group, breast conservation was possible in 45 (95.7%) patients. Thirty-nine (27%) patients were reoperated in the BCS group. Of these, 23 were re-excisions, and 16 were mastectomies. In this group, breast conservation was possible in 126 (88.7%) patients (p = 0.02). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of 5-year cumulative local recurrence rates. While the 5-year local recurrence-free survival rate was 93.3% in the OPS group, it was 90.8% in the BCS group. Conclusion: This study provided evidence that OPS can be used safely in the surgical treatment of DCIS by reducing re-excision and completion mastectomy rates compared to BCS.
A cidade e o patrimônio pós-industrial: potencialidades acerca da Usina do Queimado em Campos dos Goytacazes/RJ
Authors: Sá Larissa Miranda , Neves Fagner De Oliveira das
Published: May 2020

Com o intuito de analisar as possibilidades no âmbito político-legal e identificar os potenciais acerca do espaço, este trabalho se concentra no patrimônio industrial da cidade de Campos dos Goytacazes, apresentando como objeto de estudo o complexo da antiga edificação e as áreas livres do entorno da Usina do Queimado. Suas instalações contemplam grandes espaços, que se encontram sem uso em uma malha urbana consolidada. Situada na entrada da cidade, possui grande visibilidade, principalmente para o mercado imobiliário, fazendo desse espaço um local de conflitos socioeconômicos. Assim, baseando-se na legislação específica, foram apresentados os entraves acerca do objeto de estudo e verificadas as possibilidades diante desse panorama, considerando-se instrumentos de política urbana. Por fim, concluiu-se que a legislação não possui especificidades capazes de determinar intervenções que garantam a função social da propriedade urbana. Nesse sentido, dentre os instrumentos, àquele que pode ser empregado ao caso é o Direito de Preempção.
Espaços livres e arborização: uma análise do subúrbio ferroviário do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Mendonça Bruno Ragi Eis , Tângari Vera Regina , Vasconcellos Virgínia
Published: May 2020

O subúrbio ferroviário da cidade do Rio de Janeiro, localizado na Área de Planejamento 3 – AP3 possui as maiores concentrações de população de número de domicílios e densidade demográfica dentre as áreas de planejamento da cidade, assim como o maior percentual de residentes em assentamentos precários. Nessa região, destacam-se ainda, a elevada ocupação do solo e a consequente carência de espaços livres públicos, representados por praças, parques e espaços de lazer em geral. Este artigo busca apresentar a análise multi-métodos de identificação, quantificação e categorização dos espaços livres e da arborização existentes no subúrbio ferroviário na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. A análise dos espaços livres comprovou o alto índice de ocupação do solo urbano, onde, aproximadamente 64% do território estudado compõem-se de terrenos ocupados, sendo o maior índice de ocupação por Área de Planejamento. A pesquisa destacou também a carência de espaços livres públicos, sendo a AP3 a região que apresenta o menor percentual de distribuição desses espaços por hectare da cidade. Através da quantificação da massa arbórea existente, identificou-se que 83% de toda a área arborizada encontra-se em espaços livres privados em contrapartida ao restante incidente nos espaços públicos demonstrando assim a importância dos espaços livres privados para a manutenção da arborização no território analisado. Em uma região consolidada, altamente adensada e caracterizada por elevadas médias de temperatura, o sistema de espaços livres públicos e privados e a arborização se apresentam como importantes elementos para melhoria do microclima, atuando de maneira compensatória às deficiências existentes na estrutura urbana local. Espera-se que tal análise possa ser instrumento útil capaz de evidenciar a relevância da vegetação no sistema de espaços livres, atuando de forma colaborativa com as políticas públicas de gestão do território e de qualificação da paisagem.
On the Mean Flow in the Western Gulf of Mexico and a Reappraisal of Errors in Ship-Drift Data
Authors: Sturges Wilton
Published: May 2020

Ship-drift data in the Gulf of Mexico have led to a perplexing result, that the near-surface flow in the west has a north–south mean, of the east–west flow, ~5–10 cm s−1 into a closed basin. Ship-drift data have been used in the past hundred years under the assumption that they are reasonably accurate; the present study examines that assumption carefully, finding that the standard deviation of individual observations is typically ~20 cm s−1. In a monthly mean composed of order 400 observations or more, as examined here, the standard error of the mean will be reduced accordingly. In the southern part of the western Gulf of Mexico, the observed upper-layer flow is clearly to the west and is consistent with our expectations. In the northern part, however, the apparent flow as reported by ship drift in deep water is not significantly different from zero. Thus, the puzzling result remains: three different datasets in the southern half of the basin clearly show flow to the west, with speeds of 10 cm s−1 or more, yet there is no clear evidence of a near-surface return flow back to the east. The convergent wind stress forces downwelling of the upper layer; its return flow could be at some intermediate depth. The transport to the west from Loop Current rings is possibly returned in a deep boundary flow driven by the rectification of deep topographic Rossby waves.
Assessing the Impacts of Augmented Observations on the Forecast of Typhoon Wutip’s (2013) Formation Using the Ensemble Kalman Filter
Authors: Tien Tran Tan , Nguyen-Quynh Hoa Dao , Thanh Cong , Kieu Chanh
Published: May 2020

In this study, the impacts of different augmented observations on forecasts of Typhoon Wutip’s (2013) formation are examined. Using the local ensemble transformed Kalman filter (LETKF) implemented for the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, it is found that the prediction of Wutip’s formation location and timing is strongly governed by the strength of a monsoon trough that extends from the Bay of Bengal to the Philippine Sea. By properly capturing the strength of the monsoon trough after assimilating augmented observations available during Wutip’s early stage, the WRF Model could provide better forecasts of Wutip’s formation location and timing as compared to the forecasts initialized directly from global model analyses. Among different types of augmented observations, the satellite atmospheric motion wind vector (AMV) maintained by the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies (CIMSS) appears to be the most critical in enhancing the large-scale representation of the monsoon trough. The benefit of augmented observations in Wutip’s formation forecast is most apparent at about 36 h prior to the observed formation time. At the shorter 24-h lead time, there is, however, no clear benefit of augmented observations in predicting the timing and the location of Wutip’s formation due to better global analyses. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the vital role of the CIMSS-AMV data in improving the large-scale environment required for TC formation that one should take into account for real-time TC forecasts.
Voice-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Wu Arthur W. , Walgama Evan S. , Borrelli Michela , Mirocha James , Barbu Anca M. , Vardanyan Narine , Shamsian Arash , Hopp Stephanie , Hopp Martin L.
Published: May 2020

Objective:

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has long been associated with vocal dysfunction. However, studies quantifying the presence of voice dysfunction in CRS patients or the effects of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) are sparse. The goal of this study was to determine the voice-related quality of life in patients undergoing FESS for CRS using the validated Voice Related Quality of Life Survey (VRQL). We correlated the preoperative VRQL scores to the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) scores, and we determined the effect of FESS on postoperative VRQL scores.

Methods:

Consecutive patients undergoing FESS were preoperatively administered both the VRQL and the SNOT-22 surveys. Spearman (ρ) and Pearson ( r) correlation coefficients were calculated. The VRQL was mailed to patients postoperatively between 3 and 6 months. The paired t-test was used to compare pre- and post-FESS scores.

Results:

A total of 102 patients were enrolled, and 81 patients completed the two surveys. A total of 51 (62.9%) patients had raw VRQL score ≥ 10, signifying presence of significant vocal symptoms. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) raw VRQL score of the entire study population was 12.4 ± 4.6, and the mean SNOT-22 score was 37.8 ± 19.2. The Spearman correlation coefficient between VRQL and the total SNOT-22 score was 0.34 ( P =.002), and the Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.36 ( P = .001). Both correlations were similar, demonstrating that increasing severity of CRS symptoms correlates with decreasing voice-related quality of life (QOL). Seventy patients completed the postoperative survey for an 86% retention rate. Thirty-six of these patients had abnormal preoperative VRQL scores, and these patients improved significantly after FESS. The mean preoperative versus postoperative raw scores were 15.2 ± 5.6 versus 12.5 ± 4.1, respectively ( P = .003).

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates the increasing presence of vocal complaints with increasing severity of CRS. It also demonstrates that VRQL scores improve after FESS in those patients with preoperative vocal complaints.

Level of Evidence:

IV
Multi-objective optimization of hard milling process of AISI H13 in terms of productivity, quality, and cutting energy under nanofluid minimum quantity lubrication condition
Authors: Vu Ngoc-Chien , Dang Xuan-Phuong , Huang Shyh-Chour
Published: May 2020

This paper presents the multi-objective optimization of the hard milling process of AISI H13 steel under minimum quality lubricant with graphite nanoparticle. The cutting speed, feed per tooth, depth of cut, and hardness of workpiece were taken as the process parameters, while surface roughness, cutting energy, cutting temperature, and material removal rate were considered as technological responses. Response surface or Kriging approximate models were applied to generate the mathematical regression models showing the relationship between machining inputs and outputs obtained by physical experiments. Then, multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm in conjunction with the Pareto approach and engineering data mining was adopted to figure out the feasible solutions. The research results show that cutting energy can be reduced up to around 14% compared to the worst case. Based on the Pareto plot, the appropriate selection of machining parameters can help the machine tool operator to increase machining productivity and energy efficiency.
Point cloud clustering and outlier detection based on spatial neighbor connected region labeling
Authors: Yuan Xiaocui , Chen Huawei , Liu Baoling
Published: May 2020

Clustering analysis is one of the most important techniques in point cloud processing, such as registration, segmentation, and outlier detection. However, most of the existing clustering algorithms exhibit a low computational efficiency with the high demand for computational resources, especially for large data processing. Sometimes, clusters and outliers are inseparable, especially for those point clouds with outliers. Most of the cluster-based algorithms can well identify cluster outliers but sparse outliers. We develop a novel clustering method, called spatial neighborhood connected region labeling. The method defines spatial connectivity criterion, finds points connections based on the connectivity criterion among the k-nearest neighborhood region and classifies connected points to the same cluster. Our method can accurately and quickly classify datasets using only one parameter k. Comparing with K-means, hierarchical clustering and density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise methods, our method provides better accuracy using less computational time for data clustering. For applications in the outlier detection of the point cloud, our method can identify not only cluster outliers, but also sparse outliers. More accurate detection results are achieved compared to the state-of-art outlier detection methods, such as local outlier factor and density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise.
Configuration of smart phase-swapping switches in low-voltage distribution systems based on sequenced participation indices
Authors: Cao Lixia , Feng Guoliang , Cheng Xingong , Wang Luhao
Published: May 2020

The smart phase-swapping switches are used to rapidly change the phases of single-phase loads online in low-voltage distribution systems. They can reduce the three-phase imbalance indices. However, the effectiveness of phase-swapping operations is determined by not only the control strategy but also by the quantity and locations of smart phase-swapping switches. In this paper, a configuration method is proposed to determine the preferable quantity and locations of smart phase-swapping switches with considerations of economic benefits and operational requirements. Based on historical load information, the active and reactive powers of the loads are used to formulate the current imbalance index. The configuration problem is modeled as a multiobjective optimization that minimizes the current imbalance indices of all nodes and phase-swapping operations. The problem is solved by the particle swarm optimization algorithm to obtain the phase-swapping participation index of each single-phase load. The loads with high phase-swapping participation indices are preferably equipped with smart phase-swapping switches. The simulation results verify that the proposed method is effective and easy to be implemented in practical applications.
Self-Perceptions and Benefit Finding Among Adolescents With Substance Use Disorders and Their Caregivers: A Qualitative Analysis Guided by Social Identity Theory of Cessation Maintenance
Authors: Brousseau Natalie M. , Earnshaw Valerie A. , Menino David , Bogart Laura M. , Carrano Jennifer , Kelly John F. , Levy Sharon
Published: May 2020

Substance use disorders (SUDs) among young people have been linked with a range of adverse health consequences that can be successfully mitigated with early SUD treatment. According to the Social Identity Theory of Cessation Maintenance (SITCM), psychosocial processes including self-perceptions and benefit finding evolve with treatment, influencing recovery-based identities that can facilitate treatment success. However, this process has only been documented with adults; thus, the current study seeks to characterize these psychosocial processes among young people in SUD treatment and their caregivers. Nineteen young people receiving SUD treatment and 15 caregivers were interviewed about treatment experiences including negative self-perceptions, positive self-perceptions, and benefit finding. Results support the SITCM: Adolescents described escaping negative self-perceptions associated with the “substance use self” identity and strengthening a new “recovery self” identity characterized by positive self-perceptions and benefit finding. Caregivers described how extrinsic sources of support can help mitigate negative self-perceptions.
Construction and application of an ergonomic simulation optimization method driven by a posture load regulatory network
Authors: Liu Xiang , Lv Jian , Xie Qingsheng , Huang Haisong , Wang Weixing
Published: May 2020

The optimization of man–machine systems is a critical component in the research and development of products but it has been a struggle to improve the optimization accuracy. This study presents an ergonomic optimization method driven by a posture load regulatory network (PLRN). Considering that the differences in work-related musculoskeletal disorders are caused by different occupations, human body part data collection is completed using the deconstructions of man–machine task sequences, which applies in partial theory of the complex network to build the PLRN model. Then the approach connects the human body part data with the regulatory network to calculate the cumulative load tendency and the performance of the load group; results of the analysis provide support for the ranking of human body part loads. In addition, we derive the mapping relationship between the man–machine workload and product engineering modules based on the quality function deployment theory, which can reflect the man–machine system problems of products and assist designers in optimizing and making decisions in man–machine systems. To this end, this paper provides a case study research for evaluating the feasibility of the PLRN simulation optimization method. Results show that our method is capable of explaining the change and the predicting the tendency of human load during the man–machine operation. Compared with the traditional subjective analytic hierarchy process, the PLRN simulation optimization method provides more accurate and objective evaluation on product ergonomics, and new research opportunities on ergonomic optimization.
Re-imagining Integration: Student and Faculty Perspectives on Integration Training at Christian Doctoral Programs
Authors: Neff Megan Anna , Peterson Mary A. , McMinn Mark R. , Kuhnhausen Brooke A. , Dunkerley Jeffrey , Tisdale Theresa Clement , Strawn Brad , Davis Edward B. , Worthington Everett L. , Hall M. Elizabeth Lewis , Ripley Jennifer S.
Published: May 2020

Several explicitly Christian doctoral psychology programs exist in the United States, providing training in the integration of psychology and Christianity. The purpose of this study was to conduct a program evaluation of student and faculty perspectives on the Christian integration training in six explicitly Christian doctoral psychology programs. A total of 299 students and 51 faculty completed the Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale and a questionnaire consisting of quantitative and qualitative questions about various aspects of their program’s Christian-integrative training. Quantitative analysis revealed that faculty tend to perceive their program’s Christian-integrative training as more positive and effective than do students. Qualitative grounded-theory analysis revealed that students desire more contextual, relational, and applied learning to be incorporated into their Christian-integrative training. Training and research implications are discussed, such as moving integration toward a postmodern frame that includes increased emphasis on clinical application, diversity, and contextual learning.
“Any Alternative Is Great If I’m Incarcerated”: A Case Study of Court-Ordered Community Service in Los Angeles County
Authors: Sonsteng-Person Melanie , Herrera Lucero , koonse Tia , Zatz Noah D.
Published: May 2020

California courts increasingly order community service for those convicted of nonviolent and minor misdemeanors or infractions, assigning unpaid work to be performed. While court-ordered community service has been used as an alternative to incarceration and the payment of fines, little is known about the monetary and personal costs for those completing it. A case study design is used to examine court-ordered community service performed in Southeast Los Angeles. Data were gathered from a quantitative dataset of 541 court files of those assigned to community service and 32 in-depth interviews with attorneys and court-ordered community service workers. While the quantitative data and Attorney interviews found that negative outcomes of community service can drive community service workers deeper into debt and result in new warrants that place defendants at risk for rearrest, individuals that completed community service appreciated the opportunity to pay off their criminal justice debts and stay out of jail.
Generalizability of Results From Dyadic Data: Participation of One Versus Two Members of a Romantic Couple Is Associated With Breakup Likelihood
Authors: Park Yoobin , Impett Emily A. , MacDonald Geoff
Published: May 2020

With a growing body of relationship research relying on dyadic data (i.e., in which both members of a couple are participants), researchers have raised questions about whether such samples are representative of the population or unique in important ways. In this research, we used two large data sets (Study 1: n = 5,118; Study 2: n = 5,194) that included participants with and without a romantic partner participating to examine if co-participation status has substantive relationship implications. Results showed that co-participation status predicted breakup even after controlling for other known predictors such as satisfaction, although the effect weakened over time (Study 2). There was also tentative evidence that factors such as conflict may be differentially related to breakup among couples in which one versus both partners participated. These findings raise caution in interpreting effects found in dyadic studies and highlight the need to be mindful of potential bias in recruitment.
The Nature of Islamophobia: A Test of a Tripartite View in Five Countries
Authors: Uenal Fatih , Bergh Robin , Sidanius Jim , Zick Andreas , Kimel Sasha , Kunst Jonas R.
Published: May 2020

This article provides an examination of the structure of Islamophobia across cultures. Our novel measure—the Tripartite Islamophobia Scale (TIS)—embeds three theoretically and statistically grounded subcomponents of Islamophobia: anti-Muslim prejudice, anti-Islamic sentiment, and conspiracy beliefs. Across six samples (i.e., India, Poland, Germany, France, and the United States), preregistered analyses corroborated that these three subcomponents are statistically distinct. Measurement invariance analyses indicated full scalar invariance, suggesting that the tripartite understanding of Islamophobia is generalizable across cultural contexts. Furthermore, the subcomponents were partially dissociated in terms of the intergroup emotions they are predicted by as well as the intergroup outcomes they predict (e.g., dehumanization, ethnic persecution). For example, intergroup anger and disgust underpin Islamophobic attitudes, over and above the impact of fear. Finally, our results show that social dominance orientation (SDO) and ingroup identification moderate intergroup emotions and Islamophobia. We address both theoretical implications for the nature of Islamophobia and practical interventions to reduce it.
Evaluation of the application value of a three-dimensional digital model of the knee in clinical practice
Authors: Keremu Ajimu , Mijiti Nuersimanguli , Mijiti Sirejiding , Tuxun Aikebaier , Abudurexiti Abulikemu
Published: May 2020

Objective

To compare the knee shape and bone parameters between knee prosthesis products from overseas companies and a Chinese patient’s knee, and to apply the anatomical basis for Chinese knee prosthesis design.

Methods

Three-dimensional digital models were built, including prosthesis products for a normal adult. The relevant anatomy index was measured, and physical parameter, radiographic, geometric, knee kinematic, and distal geometry data were collected on the femur and tibia.

Results

The width of the femoral condyle (WFC), width of the medial femoral condyle (WMFC), width of the lateral femoral condyle (WLFC), depth of the intercondylar fossa (DICF), sagittal length of the medial femoral condyle (SLMFC), sagittal length of the lateral femoral condyle (SLLFC), angle of the medial femoral condyle (AMFC), and angle of the lateral femoral condyle (ALFC) in the femur and the transverse diameter (ML) and anteroposterior diameter (AP) of the tibial bone were measured. These parameters were significantly lower in the normal group compared with the prosthesis product model group.

Conclusion

When using an imported knee prosthesis, the osteotomy angle may not fit perfectly. Use of an imported prosthesis may be an important factor in the increasing failure of knee arthroplasty in China.
Educational impact of the mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise in resident standardization training: a comparative study between resident and professional degree postgraduate trainees
Authors: Wu Yali , Gong Mingfu , Zhang Dong , Zhang Chun
Published: May 2020

Objective

We aimed to explore differences in the educational impact of the mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (mini-CEX) on resident (RE) and professional degree postgraduate (PDPG) trainees, as well as influencing factors, to provide suggestions for hospital managers, trainers, and trainees.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of all scores among first-year resident standardization training trainees registered during 2017 to 2019 at Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, to identify differences in mini-CEX outcomes between REs and PDPGs.

Results

We collected data of 154 registered trainees for retrospective analysis, including 57 PDPG trainees and 97 RE trainees. The mean (standard deviation) overall performance score of PDPGs was 84.18 (4.25), which was higher than that of REs (81.48 (3.35)). In terms of domain analysis, PDPG trainees performed significantly better than REs in history taking, physical examination, clinical diagnosis/treatment regimen, and the knowledge examination; communication skills/humanistic care were comparable between the groups.

Conclusions

PDPGs performed better than REs in overall competency, history taking, physical examination, clinical diagnosis/treatment regimen, and the knowledge examination. A better knowledge base, supervisor-dominated one-to-one teaching mode, higher self-esteem and learning goals, and more sophisticated responses to feedback were potential contributors to a superior educational impact of the mini-CEX.
Cronkhite–Canada syndrome: report of a rare case and review of the literature
Authors: Liu Yuping , Zhang Li , Yang Yingshan , Peng Tao
Published: May 2020

Cronkhite–Canada syndrome is rarely encountered in clinical practice. Notably, most patients with Cronkhite–Canada syndrome exhibit hypoalbuminemia. Because the cause of Cronkhite–Canada syndrome is unknown, no specific treatment method has been established. Here, we describe a 59-year-old woman with Cronkhite–Canada syndrome in whom clinical manifestations were considerably relieved after treatment with prednisone.
The associations between serum vitamin D, calcium and uterine fibroids in Chinese women: a case-controlled study
Authors: Li Saisai , Chen Beilei , Sheng Bo , Wang Jing , Zhu Xueqiong
Published: May 2020

Objective

To investigate the associations between serum vitamin D, calcium and uterine fibroids in a Chinese female population.

Methods

In this case-control study, adult female patients with fibroids (cases) were compared with females without fibroids (controls) in terms of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) and calcium levels.

Results

Out of 546 total participants (mean age, 41.68 ± 5.99 years; 279 with fibroids and 267 without fibroids), only 232 had serum 25OHD levels above the sufficient threshold (>20 ng/ml). In addition, females with fibroids had lower serum 25OHD levels versus those without fibroids. The prevalence of fibroids in females with deficient (<12 ng/ml) and insufficient (12–20 ng/ml) 25OHD levels were significantly higher than in females with sufficient (>20 ng/ml) 25OHD levels. Serum calcium levels were within normal range in both groups.

Conclusion

Hypovitaminosis D was highly prevalent among a population of Chinese females of reproductive-age, and serum 25OHD levels were lower in female patients with fibroids.
A case of suspected antibiotic-associated encephalopathy in a patient undergoing long-term peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Guo Yibin , Shao Xiaojiao , Zhang Liyuan , Miao Jiayi , Zhang Yiwen
Published: May 2020

A man undergoing long-term peritoneal dialysis who had no history of mental illness suffered psychosis and auditory hallucination 2 days after clindamycin was initiated at a single dose of 0.6 g per day for pulmonary infection. His mental symptoms disappeared after clindamycin was discontinued and peritoneal dialysis was strengthened. The patient’s body temperature was mildly elevated the day before he was admitted to the hospital, and no abnormalities were observed on head and chest computed tomography imaging at admission, except for a slow rhythm on electroencephalogram. Many factors were involved in this case; antibiotic-related encephalopathy caused by clindamycin may be one factor. Physicians should carefully consider the use of antibiotics, especially in patients with end-stage renal disease.