bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Retracted] Identification of the Potential Biomarkers Involved in the Human Oral Mucosal Wound Healing: A Bioinformatic Study
Authors: Ning Wanchen , Jiang Xiao , Sun Zhengyang , Ogbuehi Anthony Chukwunonso , Gu Wenli , Acharya Aneesha , Fang Zhaobi , Zhu Xiongjie , Ou Qianhua , Zeng Muhui , Li Cong , Hua Shiting , Mujagond Prabhakar , Liu Xiangqiong , Deng Yupei , Pan Hongying , Hu Shaonan , Hu Xianda , Li Simin
Published: February 2021

Objective. To identify the key genetic and epigenetic mechanisms involved in the wound healing process after injury of the oral mucosa. Materials and Methods. Gene expression profiling datasets pertaining to rapid wound healing of oral mucosa were identified using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differential gene expression analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during oral mucosal wound healing. Next, functional enrichment analysis was performed to identify the biological processes (BPs) and signaling pathways relevant to these DEGs. A protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to identify hub DEGs. Interaction networks were constructed for both miRNA‐target DEGs and DEGs‐transcription factors. A DEGs‐chemical compound interaction network and a miRNA‐small molecular interaction network were also constructed. Results. DEGs were found significantly enriched in several signaling pathways including arachidonic acid metabolism, cell cycle, p53, and ECM‐receptor interaction. Hub genes, GABARAPL1, GABARAPL2, HDAC5, MAP1LC3A, AURKA, and PLK1, were identified via PPI network analysis. Two miRNAs, miR‐34a‐5p and miR‐335‐5p, were identified as pivotal players in the miRNA‐target DEGs network. Four transcription factors FOS, PLAU, BCL6, and RORA were found to play key roles in the TFs‐DEGs interaction network. Several chemical compounds including Valproic acid, Doxorubicin, Nickel, and tretinoin and small molecular drugs including atorvastatin, 17β‐estradiol, curcumin, and vitamin D3 were noted to influence oral mucosa regeneration by regulating the expression of healing‐associated DEGs/miRNAs. Conclusion. Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms and specific drugs were identified as significant molecular mechanisms and entities relevant to oral mucosal healing. These may be valuable potential targets for experimental research.
Approximation of Mixed Euler-Lagrange
σ
-Cubic-Quartic Functional Equation in Felbin’s Type f-NLS
Authors: Rassias John Michael , Pasupathi Narasimman , Saadati Reza , de la Sen Manuel
Published: February 2021

In this research paper, the authors present a new mixed Euler-Lagrange

σ

-cubic-quartic functional equation. For this introduced mixed type functional equation, the authors obtain general solution and investigate the various stabilities related to the Ulam problem in Felbin’s type of fuzzy normed linear space (f-NLS) with suitable counterexamples. This approach leads us to approximate the Euler-Lagrange

σ

-cubic-quartic functional equation with better estimation.
Evaluation of In Vivo Antidiarrheal Activity of Solvent Fractions of Hagenia abyssinica (Rosaceae) in Swiss Albino Mice
Authors: Kifle Zemene Demelash , Kidanu Birhanu Berihun , Tadesse Tesfaye Yimer , Belachew Teshome Fentik , Atnafie Seyfe Asrade
Published: February 2021

Background. Ethiopia has several medicinal plants that have been used for their antidiarrheal activity. Hagenia abyssinica is the most commonly used medicinal plant for the management of diarrhea in Ethiopia. Thus, this study's aim is to investigate the antidiarrheal effect of solvent fractions of H. abyssinica. Methods. Antidiarrheal activity of extract fractions obtained from different solvents was evaluated by using small intestine transit, enteropooling, and castor oil-induced diarrhea animal models. In all animal models, the solvent fractions treated groups were treated with three different doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg) of the solvent fractions, while the negative control group was treated with a vehicle (distilled water), and positive control group was treated with loperamide. Results. The acute toxicity test revealed that the LD50 of H. abyssinica is > 2000 mg/kg. In castor oil-induced, the solvent fractions of H. abyssinica (at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) significantly (

P
<
0.05

–0.001) prolonged the stool frequency, reduced the weight of feces, and delayed diarrheal onset time as compared with the negative control group. The fractions produced a significant (

P
<
0.05

) antimotility effect at the doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg as compared to the negative control. All solvent fractions at the middle and higher doses showed a statistically significant dose-dependent reduction in the volume of intestinal contents and weight of the feces. However, the solvent fractions of H. abyssinica at a dose of 100 mg/kg failed to produce a statistically significant activity in all parameters (number of wet feces, the onset of diarrhea, and number of total feces) when compared with the negative control group. Conclusion. The extract fractions obtained from different solvents have shown significant antidiarrheal activity. Thus, this finding supports the claimed traditional use of H. abyssinica leaves for the treatment of diarrhea.
Research Progress of Path Planning Methods for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Guo Yinjing , Liu Hui , Fan Xiaojing , Lyu Wenhong
Published: February 2021

Path planning is a key technology for autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) navigation. With the emphasis and research on AUV, AUV path planning technology is continuously developing. Path planning techniques generally include environment modelling methods and path planning algorithms. Based on a brief description of the environment modelling methods, this paper focuses on the path planning algorithms commonly used by AUV. According to the basic principles of the algorithm, the AUV path planning algorithms are divided into four categories: artificial potential field methods, geometric model search methods, random sampling methods, and intelligent bionic methods. In this review, we summarize in detail the development and application of various path planning algorithms in recent years. Meanwhile, we analyse the advantages and disadvantages of various algorithms and their improvement methods. Obstacles, ocean currents, and undersea terrain have an impact on AUV path planning. Therefore, how to deal with the complex underwater environment adds some limits to AUV path planning algorithms. In addition to the external environment, path planning algorithms also need to consider AUV’s physical constraints, such as energy constraints and motion constraints. Then, we analyse the motion constraints in AUV path planning. Finally, we discuss the development direction of AUV path planning algorithm. Time-varying ocean currents, special obstacles, multiobjective constraints, and practicability will be the problems that AUV path planning algorithms need to solve.
Drug-Induced Lupus with Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis Associated with Apixaban
Authors: Yang John , Lena Steffi , Tarditi Daniel , Banker Gopika
Published: February 2021

Drug-induced lupus is an iatrogenic-induced autoimmune disease with common offending agents well documented in the literature. To our knowledge, there are no prior case reports of drug-induced lupus associated with apixaban or any other direct oral anticoagulant. We describe a case of drug-induced lupus with leukocytoclastic vasculitis associated with apixaban started 15 days prior, after a WATCHMAN procedure for atrial fibrillation in an 86-year-old male previously anticoagulated on rivaroxaban.
Feature Selection Using Maximum Feature Tree Embedded with Mutual Information and Coefficient of Variation for Bird Sound Classification
Authors: Xu Haifeng , Zhang Yan , Liu Jiang , Lv Danjv
Published: February 2021

The classification of bird sounds is important in ecological monitoring. Although extracting features from multiple perspectives helps to fully describe the target information, it is urgent to deal with the enormous dimension of features and the curse of dimensionality. Thus, feature selection is necessary. This paper proposes a scoring feature method named MICV (Mutual Information and Coefficient of Variation), which uses the coefficient of variation and mutual information to evaluate each feature’s contribution to classification. And then, a method named ERMFT (Eliminating Redundancy Based on Maximum Feature Tree) based on two neighborhoods to eliminate redundancy to optimize features is explored. These two methods are combined as the MICV-ERMFT method to select the optimal features. Experiments are conducted to compare eight different feature selection methods with two sounds datasets of bird and crane. Results show that the MICV-ERMFT method outperforms other feature selection methods in the accuracy of the classification and is less time-consuming.
Evaluating the Long-Term Efficacy of Acupuncture Therapy for Subacute Poststroke Aphasia: Study Protocol for a Randomized, Blinded, Controlled, Multicentre Trial
Authors: Li Xiaolin , Gao Ying , Zhang Chi , Zhang Qingsu , Xin Xiyan , Tan Zhongjian , Zhang Binlong , Fan Ruiwen , Huang Xing , Xu Minjie , Shu Xin , Yan Heming , Li Changming , Kong Qiao , Li Shuren , Chang Jingling
Published: February 2021

Background. Poststroke aphasia (PSA) is a disabling condition that decreases the quality of life, and the duration of the disease harms the quality of life of PSA patients. Acupuncture has been widely employed for PSA. There is some evidence for the immediate treatment efficacy of acupuncture for PSA; however, long-term results after acupuncture may be poorer. Methods. This is a multicentre, randomized, blinded, nonacupoint (NA) acupuncture controlled, multimodal neuroimaging clinical trial. A total of 48 subjects with subacute PSA will be randomly assigned to an acupoint group or an NA control group. The acupoint group will receive acupuncture with normal needling at DU20, EX-HN1, HT5, GB39, EX-HN12, EX-HN13, and CV23. The NA control group will receive acupuncture in locations not corresponding to acupuncture points as sham acupoints. Both groups will receive identical speech and language therapy thrice a week for four weeks. The primary outcome will be the change in the aphasia quotient (AQ) score measured by the Western Aphasia Battery (WAB) test during the 12th week after randomization. Participants will be blindly assessed at prerandomization (baseline) and 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks after randomization. The secondary outcomes include the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination (BDAE) score, the Disease Prognosis Scale score for ischaemic stroke, etc. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electroencephalogram (EEG) will also be performed at 4-time intervals as secondary outcomes. All scores and image evaluations will be taken at the same point as the linguistic evaluation. The multilevel evaluation technique will be used to assess the long-term efficacy of acupuncture therapy. MRI scans and EEG will be used to assess acupuncture-related neuroplasticity changes. Discussion. The results from our trial will help to supply evidence for the long-term acupuncture effects for PSA over a long follow-up period. It will provide valuable information for future studies in the field of PSA treatment. The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 16 March 2020 (ChiCTR2000030879).
Computer Simulation of Platelet Adhesion around Stent Struts in the Presence and Absence of Tissue Defects around Them
Authors: Kawamura Yota , Tamura Noriko , Goto Shinichi , Goto Shinya
Published: February 2021

Aim. To predict platelet accumulation around stent struts in the presence or absence of tissue defects around them. Methods. Computer simulations were performed using virtual platelets implementing the function of the three membrane proteins: glycoprotein (GP) Ibα, GPIIb/IIIa, and GPVI. These platelets were perfused around the stent struts implanted into the vessel wall in the presence or absence of tissue defects around them using within the simulation platform. The number of platelets that adhered around stent struts was calculated by solving the blood flow using Navier–Stokes equation along with the adhesion of membrane protein modeled within the platform. Results. Platelet accumulation around stent struts occurred mostly at the downstream region of the stent strut array. The majority of platelets adhered at the downstream of the first bend regardless of the tissue defect status. Platelet adhesion around stent struts occurred more rapidly in the presence of tissue defects. Conclusion. Computer simulation using virtual platelets suggested a higher rate of platelet adhesion in the presence of tissue defects around stent struts.
Spatiotemporal Heterogeneity and Driving Force Analysis of Innovation Output in the Yangtze River Economic Zone: The Perspective of Innovation Ecosystem
Authors: Liu Ke , Qiao Yurong , Zhou Qian
Published: February 2021

The Yangtze River Economic Zone (YREZ) is a major corridor of national science and innovation culture, an innovation‐driven region that fosters new drivers of growth and leads transformation and development, and plays an important strategic support and exemplary leading role in the overall pattern of regional development. This paper analyzes the spatiotemporal differentiation characteristics of innovation output of 110 cities of YREZ from 2008 to 2018 by using Gini coefficient, coefficient of variation (CV), geographical weighted regression, and other methods. The factors affecting innovation output are selected from the perspective of innovation ecosystem. The results show the following. (1) Innovation output showed an increasing trend, and the high‐value concentration cities in downstream areas gradually became prominent, the geographical concentration degree fluctuated and declined, and the distribution of innovation output gradually became balanced. (2) The global Moran’s I index of innovation output shows a fluctuation pattern of “M” shape and an overall upward trend. The analysis of local spatial correlation indicates that spatial distribution pattern of innovation output has not changed significantly. (3) There is obvious regional heterogeneity under different impacts of factors of innovation ecosystem on innovation output. Enterprises have the greatest impact, followed by financial resources and infrastructure environment.
Exploring the Effect of Bicycle Infrastructure on Car Usage: A Case Study in Huhhot, China
Authors: Jian Meiying , Li Xiaojuan , Cao Jinxin , Liu Zhenyu
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to quantitatively investigate the effect of bicycle infrastructure on car usage. The mixed logit model with random coefficients was used to capture the differences in individuals’ preferences. Based on data from a stated preference survey conducted in Huhhot, China, the estimated results showed that the mixed logit model provides better fitting than the standard logit model. Considerable variations were found in individuals’ attitudes toward the use of cars and bicycles. Riding a bicycle is preferred by most individuals. Furthermore, based on the constraints for maintaining the effect on car usage equal, the equivalent change in parking fees for improvement in bicycle infrastructures was estimated. The results showed that the effect of a 100 m reduction in walking distance to bicycle stations on the probability of driving is the same as that of an approximately 2.00 yuan/h (US 0.30$/h) increase in the parking fees, and the effect of providing bike lanes is in line with additional parking fees of approximately 3.00 yuan/h (US 0.45$/h). The findings of this study can be an important reference for decision makers to consider improvements in bicycle systems and rational allocation of infrastructure investment and road resources.
Legal Protection of Children in Non-International Armed Conflicts in Nigeria
Authors: Olusegun Olaitan Oluwaseyi
Published: February 2021

Armed conflicts are characterised by violence and human rights violations with various implications on the citizens, economy and development of nations. The impact is however more pronounced with life-long consequences on children, the most vulnerable members of the society. This article examines the impact of non-international armed conflicts on children in Nigeria and identifies the laws for the protection of children against armed conflicts, both in international law and Nigeria’s domestic law. It also addresses the challenges involved in the protection of children in armed conflict situations in Nigeria. The study found that legal efforts to protect children have not been given sufficient attention in Nigeria. This is mostly due to various challenges, including the fragmentation of legal framework and the refusal to domesticate relevant treaties. It is thus recommended that these challenges be addressed through the implementation of effective legal frameworks.
De Zuid-Afrikaanse Waarheids- En Verzoeningscommissie als Modelvoor Conflictverzoening
Authors: Verdoolaege Annelies
Published: February 2021

The South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission as a model for conflict resolution

After the fall of apartheid in 1994, the new South African government got confronted with the necessity to deal with the crimes committed in the past. Apartheid had been a system of institutionalized discrimination by the white minority and this apartheid past could not be ignored when trying to build a unified and peaceful society. The question was how the apartheid atrocities could be dealt with in order for the majority of South Africans to be satisfied. A couple of possibilities were put forward, but the nation eventually opted for the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). This paper will try to provide some background to this phenomenon. Possible alternatives and the coming into existence of the Commission will be highlighted. The concrete proceedings of the TRC will be described and finally the positive and the negative aspects of the Commission will be reflected upon. The final aim is to find out whether the TRC could be seen as a successful and praiseworthy institution and whether it could be regarded as a model for other countries confronted with traumatic conflicts.
African Botanical Heritage for New Crop Development
Authors: Van Damme Patrick , Termote Céline
Published: February 2021

The African continent is rather poor in plant biodiversity when compared to other continents on and around the equator. Nevertheless, lots of useful plant species have been domesticated from Sub-Sahara Africa material. Ethnobotanical research offers the possibility to collect information on the use and utility of wild plant species from traditional peoples often living in or close to a challenging natural environment. This type of information then allows us to find new candidates for domestication and subsequent crop development for income generation and increased food security. The case of Gnetum africanum illustrates the practical implications of developing a lesser-known species, and highlights the institutional problems that go together with niche crop development. The latter are subsequently presented and discussed in extenso, and solutions proposed in a second part of this review text.
Predatory mites (Acari: Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae) intercepted from samples imported to Taiwan, with description of a new species
Authors: LIAO JHIH-RONG , HO CHYI-CHEN , KO CHIUN-CHENG
Published: February 2021

Global trade has increased the invasion risk of exotic organisms and damaged agricultural and natural ecosystems. The Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine (BAPHIQ) handles quarantine services of animal- and plant-associated pests and diseases in Taiwan. The predatory mite family Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) is a well-known group due to the potential use of certain species as biocontrol agents for small phytophagous pests. Some species are available in commercial markets and frequently used in biological control in many agricultural systems, especially in greenhouse crops. However, exotic biological control agents may interfere with natural or naturalised populations of predatory mites and they may threaten indigenous populations via intraguild predation. The present study aims to provide a checklist of phytoseiid mite species found in plant quarantine from 2006–2013. Twenty-five species belonging to two subfamilies and eight genera were found in samples imported to Taiwan from twelve countries, including one new species Typhlodromus (Anthoseius) ueckermanni sp. nov. from South Africa. The checklist provides distribution, remarks, and also an identification key for all species.
Genetic disorders of the surfactant system: focus on adult disease
Authors: van Moorsel Coline H.M. , van der Vis Joanne J. , Grutters Jan C.
Published: February 2021

Genes involved in the production of pulmonary surfactant are crucial for the development and maintenance of healthy lungs. Germline mutations in surfactant-related genes cause a spectrum of severe monogenic pulmonary diseases in patients of all ages. The majority of affected patients present at a very young age, however, a considerable portion of patients have adult-onset disease. Mutations in surfactant-related genes are present in up to 8% of adult patients with familial interstitial lung disease (ILD) and associate with the development of pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer.

High disease penetrance and variable expressivity underscore the potential value of genetic analysis for diagnostic purposes. However, scarce genotype–phenotype correlations and insufficient knowledge of mutation-specific pathogenic processes hamper the development of mutation-specific treatment options.

This article describes the genetic origin of surfactant-related lung disease and presents spectra for gene, age, sex and pulmonary phenotype of adult carriers of germline mutations in surfactant-related genes.
Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes and lung disease: an update
Authors: Prentice Bernadette J. , Jaffe Adam , Hameed Shihab , Verge Charles F. , Waters Shafagh , Widger John
Published: February 2021

The development of cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) often leads to poorer outcomes in patients with cystic fibrosis including increases in pulmonary exacerbations, poorer lung function and early mortality. This review highlights the many factors contributing to the clinical decline seen in patients diagnosed with CFRD, highlighting the important role of nutrition, the direct effect of hyperglycaemia on the lungs, the immunomodulatory effects of high glucose levels and the potential role of genetic modifiers in CFRD.
Highlighting the gaps in hazard and risk assessment of unregulated Endocrine Active Substances in surface waters: retinoids as a European case study
Authors: Kubickova Barbara , Ramwell Carmel , Hilscherova Klara , Jacobs Miriam Naomi
Published: February 2021

Regulatory hazard and risk assessment of endocrine-active substances currently specifies four modes of action: interference with sex hormone (oestrogen, androgen) pathways, steroidogenesis, and thyroid hormone signalling. This does not encompass the full complexity of the endocrine system and its extended interfaces with environmental pollutants that can potentially disrupt the carefully maintained balance. Here we take the retinoid signalling pathway as a European case study for both, under- and unregulated endocrine pathways and outline the different levels of interference, discuss their adversity, and indicate crosstalk to other signalling pathways. Retinoid compounds already exist in drinking water sources, occur naturally in cyanobacterial blooms and/or enter surface waters via wastewater discharge, where they pose a potential hazard to the environment and human health - a situation that can be expected to worsen due to water shortages induced by climate-change and population growth. We briefly review relevant aspects of current endocrine disruptor (ED) testing for regulatory purposes and then expand upon the needs for inclusion of disruption of retinoid signalling in (ED) regulatory safety assessment contributing to adverse health outcomes that include cognitive function and neurological disease. An overview of developmental effects of retinoid signalling disruption across species highlights critical processes and potential crosstalk with other signalling pathways. A focused weight of evidence-based evaluation of the biologically plausible associations between neurological disorders and altered retinoid signalling highlights the evidence gaps. We show that monitoring only a limited number of anthropogenic priority chemicals in water is insufficient to address the environmental risks of retinoid signalling disruption. To comprehensively assess impacts on the endpoints, processes, and pathways of the endocrine system that are most vulnerable to chemical interference we need further investigation of the true mixture composition in environmental matrices. On a weight of evidence-basis this information can then be integrated into a reliable, inclusive, quantitative approach that ultimately accommodates all the critical pathways. By focusing on the retinoid signalling pathway, we intend to improve the scope and relevance of an integrated approach for the risk assessment of endocrine disruptors.
Diversity of dinoflagellate assemblages in coastal temperate and offshore tropical waters of Australia
Authors: Manning Tahnee , Thilagaraj Arjun Venkatesh , Mouradov Dmitri , Piola Richard , Grandison Clare , Gordon Matthew , Shimeta Jeff , Mouradov Aidyn
Published: February 2021

Background

Dinoflagellates are a ubiquitous and ecologically important component of marine phytoplankton communities, with particularly notable species including those associated with harmful algal blooms (HABs) and those that bioluminesce. High-throughput sequencing offers a novel approach compared to traditional microscopy for determining species assemblages and distributions of dinoflagellates, which are poorly known especially in Australian waters.

Results

We assessed the composition of dinoflagellate assemblages in two Australian locations: coastal temperate Port Phillip Bay and offshore tropical waters of Davies Reef (Great Barrier Reef). These locations differ in certain environmental parameters reflecting latitude as well as possible anthropogenic influences. Molecular taxonomic assessment revealed more species than traditional microscopy, and it showed statistically significant differences in dinoflagellate assemblages between locations. Bioluminescent species and known associates of HABs were present at both sites. Dinoflagellates in both areas were mainly represented by the order Gymnodiniales (66%—82% of total sequence reads). In the warm waters of Davies Reef, Gymnodiniales were equally represented by the two superclades, Gymnodiniales sensu stricto (33%) and Gyrodinium (34%). In contrast, in cooler waters of Port Phillip Bay, Gymnodiniales was mainly represented by Gyrodinium (82%). In both locations, bioluminescent dinoflagellates represented up to 0.24% of the total sequence reads, with Protoperidinium the most abundant genus. HAB-related species, mainly represented by Gyrodinium, were more abundant in Port Phillip Bay (up to 47%) than at Davies Reef (28%), potentially reflecting anthropogenic influence from highly populated and industrial areas surrounding the bay. The entire assemblage of dinoflagellates, as well as the subsets of HAB and bioluminescent species, were strongly correlated with water quality parameters (R2 = 0.56–0.92). Significant predictors differed between the subsets: HAB assemblages were explained by salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and total dissolved solids; whereas, bioluminescent assemblages were explained only by salinity and dissolved oxygen, and had greater variability.

Conclusion

High-throughput sequencing and genotyping revealed greater diversity of dinoflagellate assemblages than previously known in both subtropical and temperate Australian waters. Significant correlations of assemblage structure with environmental variables suggest the potential for explaining the distribution and composition of both HAB species and bioluminescent species.
Quality of life and treatment satisfaction with pharmacological interventions in Chinese adults with chronic pain due to osteoarthritis
Authors: Xue Qingyun , Long Huibin , Lin Jianhao , Du Dongping , Zhou Jin , Chen Jinwei , li Shu , Zhang Yanlei , Cheng Yan , Ma Xiao , Zhang Zhiyi
Published: February 2021

Background

Aim of this multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study was to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and treatment satisfaction of current medications in Chinese knee OA patients.

Methods

Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQM-1.4), and HRQoL (EQ-5D-5L) were assessed in total of 601 OA of knee patients. Impact on QoL (EQ-5D-5L) and treatment satisfaction (TSQM-1.4) by BPI-Severity score (< 4 and ≥ 4) were presented using mean standard deviations (SDs) and were compared using a t-test. For each of self-assessed health EQ-5D-5L and TSQM, a linear regression model was used to estimate the regression coefficient along with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for BPI-Severity.

Results

Mean score of EQ-5D-5L of patients with BPI-Severity ≥4 was significantly lower than those with BPI-Severity < 4. All the scores of TSQM in 4 dimensions were lower in patients with BPI-Severity ≥4 than in those with BPI-Severity < 4. Both HRQoL scores and TSQM scores showed a statistically significant decreasing trend with increasing BPI-Severity pain score.

Conclusion

Chronic knee OA pain has a significant impact on patients’ HRQoL. More severe patients with OA were less satisfied with current treatments.
The virtue of optimistic realism - expectation fulfillment predicts patient-rated global effectiveness of total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Kästner Anne , Ng Kuet Leong Virginie S. C. , Petzke Frank , Budde Stefan , Przemeck Michael , Müller Martin , Erlenwein Joachim
Published: February 2021

Background

Emerging evidence highlights the importance of preoperative expectations in predicting patient-reported outcomes of orthopedic surgeries. To date, it is still a matter of controversy whether patient satisfaction can be maximized by promoting either optimistic or realistic outcome expectations before surgery. Adjusting overly optimistic outcome expectancies in favor of a more realistic outlook on the limitations of total hip arthroplasty could reduce the risk of disappointment and lead to greater satisfaction with surgery outcomes. Our prospective cohort study was aimed at comparing the relative predictive influence of baseline expectations, expectation fulfillment and symptomatic improvement on the global effectiveness of total hip arthroplasty.

Methods

Ninety patients (49 female, 41 male; mean age: 63 ± 12.87 years) fulfilled inclusion criteria and completed a comprehensive preoperative assessment comprising sociodemographic, clinical, functional and psychological phenotypes. Moreover, the strengths of preoperative expectations for improvements in eight pain-related and functional domains were recorded on a 5-point Likert-scale. At 12 months after surgery, patients were asked to rate perceived improvements in each of these domains as well as the global effectiveness of the total hip replacement on a 5-point Likert-scale. To evaluate the relative impact of preoperative expectations, symptom improvement and the fulfillment of expectations on the global effectiveness of surgery, a sequential multiple regression analysis was performed.

Results

Compared with the actual improvement at 12-months follow-up, prior expectations had been overly optimistic in about 28% of patients for hip pain, in about 45% for walking ability and around 60% for back pain, independence in everyday life, physical exercise, general function social interactions and mental well-being. An optimistic hip pain expectation, walking ability at baseline and the fulfillment of expectations for walking ability, general function and independence in everyday life were found to independently predict global effectiveness ratings.

Conclusions

Positive expectation about pain and the fulfillment of expectations concerning functional domains predicted higher global effectiveness ratings. In line with many authors investigating the relationship between the fulfillment of expectations and satisfaction with medical interventions, we suggest that professionals should explicitly address their patients’ expectations during the preoperative education and consultation.
WOMAC score and arthritis diagnosis predict decreased agricultural productivity
Authors: Webber Eliza J. , Tran Tan , June Ronald , Healy Emily , Andrews Tara M. , Younkin Roubie , MacDonald Justin , Adams Erik S.
Published: February 2021

Background

Arthritis and joint pain are highly prevalent in agricultural (ag) workers. Many ag operations are sustained by a small number of workers, and the disability of even one worker thus contributes to economic hardship. This study investigated associations between joint health in Montana ag workers and economic well-being and work capacity.

Methods

This observational mixed-methods study utilized quantitative survey data and qualitative focus group data. 299 ranchers and farmers in 9 Montana counties completed either an online or paper survey that included participant demographics, joint symptoms, history of arthritis and arthritis type, financial status, work capacity, and the need to rely on others to complete one’s work. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities arthritis index (WOMAC) survey was completed by those with hip or knee pain. Data were entered into REDCap v8.9.2 for analysis with SAS 9.4, using logistic and linear regression models to detect associations between covariables and to calculate odds ratios and confidence intervals. Focus groups were held with ranchers in two Montana counties, discussing similar topics, and the themes expressed were identified.

Results

87.6% of survey respondents reported joint pain, 47.8% a diagnosis of arthritis, and 22.4% osteoarthritis (OA). A 10-point increase in WOMAC was significantly associated with lower work capacity (OR 2.00; 95% CI [1.58, 2.55],p < 0.01), worse financial condition (OR 1.23; 95% CI [1.01,1.48],p = 0.04), and increased reliance on others (OR 1.82; 95% CI [1.32, 2.55],p < 0.01). An arthritis diagnosis was associated with worsening work capacity (OR 4.66; 95% CI [2.71, 8.01],p < 0.01) and increased odds of relying on others (OR 3.23; 95% CI [1.56, 6.66],p < 0.01). A diagnosis of OA was significantly associated with decreased work capacity (OR 3.47; 95% CI [1.97, 6.11],p < 0.01). Unadjusted for age and BMI, we found a significant association between years spent working in agriculture and joint health, which became non-significant after adjusting for age and BMI. Focus group themes included decreased productivity with increased joint symptoms and a tendency for ranchers to avoid interaction with the health care system.

Conclusion

Poor joint health is associated with economic risk on Montana ranches and farms.
Complementary and alternative medicine - practice, attitudes, and knowledge among healthcare professionals in New Zealand: an integrative review
Authors: Liu Lizhou , Tang Yong , Baxter G. David , Yin Haiyan , Tumilty Steve
Published: February 2021

Background

The prevalence of CAM use is increasing. This integrative review investigated New Zealand healthcare professionals’ practice of, attitudes toward, and knowledge about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Methods

Literature search was conducted in four databases from inception to April 2020. Studies were included if they reported results from primary data collection on practice of, attitudes toward, or knowledge about CAM amongst New Zealand healthcare professionals.

Results

Eleven studies (two of ‘high-quality’, seven of ‘moderate-quality’, and two of ‘low-quality’) were identified with 2060 healthcare professionals including general practitioners (GPs), nurses, midwives, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and medical specialists. New Zealand healthcare professionals were generally positive regarding CAM use, but have concerns on the scientific evidence, regulation, safety, financial costs of CAM, and encourage an evidence-based CAM practice and stronger CAM regulation. Findings indicated that around 25% of GPs practise CAM, and 82.3% refer patients to CAM practitioners. When treating pregnant women, 48.4% of physiotherapists practise acupuncture, and 37.3% of midwives recommend CAM. GPs believe that acupuncture is the most helpful CAM modality, and most commonly practiced and referred patients to acupuncture. Up to 58% of GPs and Plunket nurses wanted to receive further education on CAM, and up to 66.7% GPs favour the idea CAM should be included in medical curriculums.

Conclusions

Nine of the 11 included studies were of moderate to high quality, thus enhancing the reliability of the review findings. In order to better manage CAM in New Zealand New Zealand clinical settings, there is a need to invest in CAM research and education, and enhance CAM regulation. This review is a first step in developing an evidence base to offer insights for further development of effective CAM policies regarding safety, efficacy, regulation and integration in New Zealand.
Tibial torsion analysis in computed tomography: development and validation of a real 3D measurement technique
Authors: Hoch Armando , Roth Tabitha , Marcon Magda , Fürnstahl Philipp , Fucentese Sandro F. , Sutter Reto
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Pathological tibial torsion is known to negatively influence the functionality of the lower extremity, and therefore, its assessment might play an important role. While 3D imaging is used for many examinations of the musculoskeletal system, for the determination of tibial torsion no 3D measurement technique has been available so far. We developed a 3D measurement method and assess its interobserver reliability as well as its correlation with standard 2D measurement methods.

Methods

CT scans of 82 tibiae in 79 patients with a mean age of 41 years were included. A novel 3D measurement technique was developed and applied. Measurements were compared with two frequently used 2D measurement methods. ICC (intraclass correlation coefficient) for the new technique was determined and compared to the 2D measurement method. Furthermore, differences between left and right legs as well as between males and females were assessed.

Results

The ICC for the 2D methods was 0.917 and 0.938, respectively. For the 3D measurements, ICCs were calculated to be 0.954 and 0.950. Agreement between 2 and 3D methods was moderate to good with ICCs between 0.715 and 0.795. Torsion values for left and right legs did not differ significantly in 2D and in 3D (26.2 vs 28.5° and 27.2 vs. 25.9°). The same is true for the differences between male and female in 2D and 3D (26.2 vs. 29.6° and 25.0 vs. 31.2°).

Conclusion

The newly developed 3D measurement technique shows a high intraclass agreement and offers an applicable opportunity to assess the tibial torsion three-dimensionally.
Silencing Smad7 potentiates BMP2-induced chondrogenic differentiation and inhibits endochondral ossification in human synovial-derived mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Xiao Pengcheng , Zhu Zhenglin , Du Chengcheng , Zeng Yongsheng , Liao Junyi , Cheng Qiang , Chen Hong , Zhao Chen , Huang Wei
Published: February 2021

Background

Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) is a promising chondrogenic growth factor for cartilage tissue-engineering, but it also induces robust endochondral ossification. Human synovial-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hSMSCs) have attracted great interest due to their poor potential for differentiation into osteogenic lineages. Smad7 plays a significant in the endochondral ossification. In this study, we explored a new method to amplify the BMP2-induced chondrogenic differentiation of hSMSCs by downregulating Smad7 and applying a cellular scaffold.

Methods

hSMSCs were isolated from human knee joint synovium from 3 donors through adhesion growth. In vitro and in vivo models of the chondrogenic differentiation of hSMSCs were established. Transgenic expression of BMP2 and silencing of Smad7 and Smad7 was achieved by adenoviral vectors. The osteogenic differentiation was detected by alkaline phosphatase staining, alizarin red staining, and RT-PCR analysis of the osteogenic genes RUNX2, Osterix, and Osteocalcin. The chondrogenic differentiation was detected by Alcian blue staining and RT-PCR analysis of the chondrogenic genes SOX9, COL2, and aggrecan. Hypertrophic differentiation was detected by the markers COL10 and MMP13. A subcutaneous stem cell implantation model was established with polyethylene glycol citrate-co-N-isopropylacrylamide (PPCN) scaffolds and athymic nude mice (3/group, 4–6 week-old female) and evaluated by micro-CT, H&E staining, and Alcian blue staining. An immunohistochemistry assay was used to detected COL1 and COL2, and an immunofluorescence assay was used to detect COL10 and MMP13.

Results

These hSMSCs identified by flow cytometry. These hSMSCs exhibited lower osteo-differentiation potential than iMads and C3H10T1/2-cells. When Smad7 was silenced in BMP2-induced hSMSCs, the chondrogenic differentiation genes SOX9, COL2, and aggrecan were enhanced in vitro. Additionally, it silencing Smad7 led to a decrease in the hypertrophic differentiation genes COL10 and MMP13. In subcutaneous stem cell implantation assays, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that silencing Smad7 increased the number of COL2-positive cells and decreased the expression of COL1, COL10, and MMP13.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the application of hSMSCs, cell scaffolds, and silencing Smad7 can potentiate BMP2-induced chondrogenic differentiation and inhibit endochondral ossification. Thus, inhibiting the expression of Smad7 in BMP2-induced hSMSC differentiation may be a new strategy for cartilage tissue-engineering.
Comparison of 6-[18F]FDOPA PET with Nigrosome 1 detection in patients with parkinsonism
Authors: Michler Enrico , Kaiser Daniel , Eleftheriadou Kiriaki , Falkenburger Björn , Kotzerke Jörg , Hoberück Sebastian
Published: February 2021

Background

The functional 6-[18F]FDOPA positron emission tomography (PET) can be a helpful tool in differentiating parkinsonism with dopaminergic deficiency from clinically similar differential diagnoses. Furthermore, in T2*/susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences the structural integrity of the Nigrosome 1 (N1) can be assessed by checking the presence of the swallow tail sign (STS). We therefore retrospectively compared the performance of the 6-[18F]FDOPA PET with the N1 detection in patients suspected with parkinsonian diseases. Forty-three consecutive patients (m: 23, f: 20, mean age: 63 ± 12 years) were included in the study. They underwent clinically indicated 6-[18F]FDOPA PET/MRI scans as part of their neurological evaluation of uncertain parkinsonian syndromes. Visual and semi-quantitative PET imaging results were statistically compared with visual N1 assessment on 3 T SWI. As the gold standard, we defined the clinical diagnosis at the last follow-up, which included idiopathic Parkinson syndrome (IPS; n = 18), atypical parkinsonian syndromes (APS; n = 9) and other neurological diseases without dopaminergic deficit (n = 16).

Results

Thirty-five of 43 patients (81%, Kappa 0.611) had corresponding results in 6-[18F]FDOPA PET and SWI. Seven of the remaining 8 patients were correctly diagnosed by 6-[18F]FDOPA PET alone. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for 6-[18F]FDOPA and N1 imaging were 93%, 94%, 93% and 82%, 75%, 79%, respectively.

Conclusions

6-[18F]FDOPA PET and Nigrosome 1 evaluation had an overall good intermodality agreement. Diagnostic agreement was very good in cases of clinically suspected idiopathic Parkinson syndrome and fair in atypical parkinsonian syndromes, but poor in patients with non-parkinsonian disorders. 6-[18F]FDOPA PET showed higher sensitivity, specificity and accuracy in discriminating parkinsonian syndromes from non-parkinsonian disorders than the N1 evaluation. In summary, the additional benefit of N1 assessment in patients with APS or parkinsonism without dopaminergic deficit needs to be proven by prospective studies.
Grocery food taxes and U.S. county obesity and diabetes rates
Authors: Wang Lingxiao , Zheng Yuqing , Buck Steven , Dong Diansheng , Kaiser Harry M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Grocery food taxes represent a stable tax revenue stream for state and municipal government during times of adverse economic shocks such as that observed under the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Previous research, however, suggests a possible mechanism through which grocery taxes may adversely affect health. Our objectives are to document the spatial and temporal variation in grocery taxes and to empirically examine the statistical relationship between county-level grocery taxes and obesity and diabetes.

Methods

We collect and assemble a novel national dataset of annual county and state-level grocery taxes from 2009 through 2016. We link this data to three-year, county-level estimates based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on rates of obesity and diabetes and provide a nation-wide spatial characterization of grocery taxes and these two health outcomes. Using a county-level fixed effects estimator, we estimate the effect of grocery taxes on obesity and diabetes rates, also controlling for a subset of potential confounders that vary over time.

Results

We find a 1 percentage point increase in grocery taxes is associated with 0.588 and 0.215 percentage point increases in the county-level obesity and diabetes rates.

Conclusion

Counties with grocery taxes have increased prevalence of obesity and diabetes. We estimate the economic burden of increased obesity and diabetes rates resulting from grocery taxes to be $5.9 billion. Based on this estimate, the benefit-cost ratio of removing grocery taxes across the United States only considering the effects on obesity and diabetes rates is 1.90.
Magnetic-driven dynamic culture promotes osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cell
Authors: Hao Mengyang , Xiong Minghao , Liu Yangyang , Tan Wen-song , Cai Haibo
Published: February 2021

Effective nutrient transport and appropriate mechanical stimulation play important roles in production of tissue-engineered bone grafts. In this study, an experimental set-up for magnetic-driven dynamic culture of cells was designed to mimic the microenvironment of the bone tissue. Here, its ability to contribute to osteogenic differentiation was investigated by inoculating human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) on magnetic scaffolds. The cytocompatibility of the developed magnetic scaffolds was verified for HUMSCs. Magnetic scaffolds seeded with HUMSCs were exposed to magnetic fields. The results showed that magnetic fields did not affect cell activity and promoted HUMSCs osteogenic differentiation. The magnetic scaffolds were magnetically driven for dynamic culture in the experimental set-up to evaluate the influence of HUMSCs osteoblast differentiation. The results indicated that magnetic-driven dynamic culture increased cell alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (p < 0.05) and calcium release (p < 0.05) compared with static culture. The effect was demonstrated in the expression of bone-associated genes. Overall, this study showed that magnetic-driven dynamic culture is a promising tool for regenerative bone engineering.