bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROBLEMATIKA PENERAPAN PEMBELAJARAN MATEMATIKA BERBASIS-MASALAH
Authors: Masamah Ulfa
Published: August 2020

IMPLEMENTATION OF INTUITION BASED LEARNING MODEL ON STUDENT CREATIVITY. Learning syntax is the main thing that influences the achievement of learning objectives. This article aims to describe the problems of applying problem-based mathematics learning. This research is a library research. The results of this study need to be modified or improved fro the exixting syintax so that the activities of teachers and students are in accordance with the problem-based theoretical and philoshophical foundation.
PROFIL BERPIKIR MATEMATIS SISWA TUNAGRAHITA DI SLB N KALIWUNGU KUDUS
Authors: Sa’ady Ma’rufatin Nurus
Published: August 2020

PROFILE OF MATHEMATICAL THINKING OF MENTALLY RETARDED STUDENTS IN SLB N KALIWUNGU KUDUS. This research aims to describe the profile of mathematical thinking of mentally retarded students in class II of SLB N Kaliwungu Kudus. This research is a descriptive qualitative. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and documentation. The result that the mentally retarded students of the second grade of SLB N Kaliwungu were students who were able to recognize numbers 1-11, were able to count 1-20, willing to learn and be responsive, but the teacher had to be able to guide more exclusively. The role of parents is also influence student development, parents must always pay attention to the child's growth and development, and continue to support and motivate.
Pembelajaran Matematika Melalui Konteks Islam Nusantara: Sebuah Kajian Etnomatematika di Indonesia
Authors: Richardo Rino
Published: August 2020

Pembinaan karakter kepada siswa dapat dilakukan melalui internalisasi budaya dan agama dalam materi pelajaran. Penelitian ini membahas studi budaya Islam Nusantara dalam pembelajaran matematika dengan topik aljabar dan probabilitas. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode perpustakaan. Data yang diperoleh adalah publikasi artikel penelitian dalam jurnal ilmiah. Artikel yang dianalisis mencakup tiga tahap, yaitu mengatur, mensintesis, dan mengidentifikasi. Hasil analisis data menunjukkan bahwa (1) budaya Islam Nusantara dapat digunakan untuk mengajarkan konsep dalam pembelajaran matematika, dan (2) budaya ini dapat digunakan sebagai bahan dalam memperkuat pendidikan karakter.
Explicating Practice Norms and Tensions Between Values in Resident Training in Family Medicine
Authors: Achkar Morhaf Al
Published: August 2020

Background. Residency programs have the intricate and complex role of training health care providers. But little is known about what residents and attendings consider norms of practice or the tensions among different values residents are expected to uphold. Thus, dialogical and reflective frameworks are being explored for resident learning.Methods. This study examined the use of facilitated conversations with groups of residents and attending physicians while reviewing video-recorded resident–patient interactions. The conversations were recorded, transcribed, and qualitatively analyzed.Results. A total of 24 residents and 10 attendings participated in conversations while separately and in parallel groups reviewing 15 resident sessions. Residents explicated the norms of practice and evaluated their performance, which often agreed with those of attending physicians in calling out important learning opportunities. When disagreement occurred, residents’ explications of their reasoning were often relevant and, via reflection and dialogue, helped clarify intentions that were not apparent in the videos. Residents and attendings often judged actions on more than one domain of value. For instance, if a resident addressed problems, built relationships in a timely manner, and acted autonomously without jeopardizing the quality of care, she satisfactorily performed her duty.Conclusions. Practice norms and value struggles were addressed by participants during reviews, which provided a promising framework for learning and assessment. Also, the non-hierarchical structure opened space to acknowledge a diversity of positions and for tensions among values to be explicated.
Prophylactic antibiotic treatment with TMP-SMX decreased the incidence of interstitial pneumonia in patients with B-cell lymphoma on chemotherapy
Authors: Li Cong , Lu Fangxiao , Tao Lei , Yu Haifeng , Chen Xi , Peng Shuailing , Han Shuiyun , Yang Haiyan
Published: August 2020

Background Several studies have reported the incidence of interstitial pneumonia (IP) among patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that are undergoing combination chemotherapy plus rituximab; however, the effective prophylactic treatment for IP remains unclear. This study aims to explore the prophylactic effect of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) on IP and identify IP-associated risk factors in NHL patients.Methods Between March 2013 and April 2018, 498 patients (264 males, 53%) with B-cell NHL undergoing first-line RCHOP-like chemotherapy treatment with rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone were enrolled in this study.Results These patients had a median age of 56 years, and 311 of the 498 patients (62.4%) were administered once daily with the prophylactic treatment of TMP-SMX. IP occurred in 65 patients (13.1%), indicating a significant reduction in the IP incidence rate (21.4% vs. 8.0%; p<0.001). Among patients treated with TMP-SMX, 2 (1.2%) exhibited rashes, 38 (12.2%) suffered from nausea and vomiting, 52 (16.7%) showed signs of neutropenia, and 18 (5.8%) suffered from kidney dysfunction. Both univariate and multivariate analysis showed that gender (male), history of diabetes, and absence of prophylactic TMP-SMX treatment were significant risk factors associated with IP. Disease progression was observed in 55/311 (17.7%) patients that underwent prophylactic TMP-SMX treatment and in 63/187 (33.7%) patients that did not (p<0.001).Conclusions This study revealed that the occurrence of IP was common in B-cell NHL patients undergoing combined chemotherapy plus rituximab treatment. IP could be reduced with prophylactic treatment of once-daily oral TMP-SMX.
The anti-apoptotic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin on acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity in rats
Authors: Guo Jie , Cao Xiaolu , Hu Xianmin , Li Shulan , Wang Jun
Published: August 2020

Background: Acrylamide (ACR) formed during heating of tobacco and carbohydrate-rich food as well as widely applied in industries has been known as a well-established neurotoxic pollutant. Although the precise mechanism is unclear, enhanced apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation have been demonstrated to contribute to the ACR-induced neurotoxicity. In this study, we assessed the possible anti-apoptotic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin, the most active component in a popular spice known as turmeric, on the neurotoxicity caused by ACR in rats.Methods: Curcumin at the dose of 50 and 100 mg/kg was orally given to ACR- intoxicated Sprague-Dawley rats exposed by ACR at 40mg/kg for 4 weeks. All rats were subjected to behavioral analysis. The HE staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) staining were used to detect histopathological changes and apoptotic cells, respectively. The mRNA and protein expressions of apoptosis-related molecule telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) were detected using real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were measured as the indicators for evaluating the level of oxidative stress in brain. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokinestumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the cerebral homogenates were detected using ELISA assay.Results: ACR-induced weigh loss, deficits in motor function as well as pathological alterations in brains were significantly improved in rats administrated with 50 and 100 mg/kg curcumin. TUNEL-positive apoptotic cells in curcumin-treated ACR intoxicated brains were less than those in the ACR model group. Curcumin administration especially at the dose of 100 mg/kg upregulated the TERT mRNA expression and enhanced the number of TERT-positive cells in ACR-intoxicated cortex tissues. Moreover, curcumin treatment reduced the concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β and MDA, while increased the GSH contents as well as the SOD and GSH-Px activities in the cerebral homogenates, in comparison to ACR control group.Conclusions: These data suggested the anti-apoptotic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin on ACR-induced neurotoxicity in rats. Maintaining TERT-related anti-apoptotic function might be one mechanism underlying the protective effect of curcumin on ACR-intoxicated brains.
Factors facilitating trained NIMART nurses’ adherence to treatment guidelines: A vital matter in the management of TB/HIV treatment in South Africa
Authors: MAKHADO LUFUNO , Davhana-Maselesele Mashudu , Lebese Rachel Tsakani , Maputle Sonto Maria
Published: August 2020

Background: Globally, the burden of tuberculosis or human immunodeficiency virus (TB/HIV) is at 24% and this alarming rate compelled the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare the African region as a critical workforce shortage area. To facilitate adherence to treatment guidelines, WHO recommended a strategy of task shifting for countries with high health workforce shortages. The strategy aimed at the redistribution of health care tasks to available workers. The study aimed to determine the factors facilitating nurse-initiated management of antiretroviral therapy (NIMART) trained nurses’ adherence to TB/HIV treatment guidelines. Methods: The study employed an exploratory-descriptive design. The study was conducted in Ugu and Ngaka Modiri Molema Districts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and North West (NW) Provinces of South Africa. The population comprised of 24 participants who were purposively selected. The in-depth focus group discussions were conducted and ATLAS T.I. was used for data analysis following the basic steps of notice-collect-think (NCT) analysis. Trustworthiness and adherence to ethics were ensured. Results: The singular theme of factors facilitating NIMART trained nurses’ adherence to treatment guidelines which included positive attitudinal needs and positive behavioural change emerged from raw data. Conclusion: Continuous training, support supervision, and improved relationships with colleagues need to be enhanced to enable NIMART trained nurses to adhere to treatment guidelines.
Experiences of participation in bereavement groups from significant others’ perspectives: A qualitative study
Authors: Näppä Ulla , Randström Kerstin Björkman
Published: August 2020

Background: When death ends a life, the impact of caring for person who suffered a period of illness or disease continues for significant others who are left to grieve. They should be offered support to avoid complicated grief. This can be provided in different ways and individually or in groups. This study aims to describe significant others’ experiences of participation in bereavement groups. Methods: Ten bereavement groups that each met five times offered support for the significant others of deceased loved ones who had been cared for by a palliative-care team. After the five meetings, the grieving members (n=46) completed written comments about the role of the groups; they also commented one year after participating (n=39). Comments were analyzed with qualitative content analysis with a directed approach using the theory of a good death according to the 6S’s: self-image, self-determination, social relationships, symptom control, synthesis and summation, and surrender. Results: Bereavement groups were found to be a source for alleviating grief for some significant others, but not all experienced relief. Moreover, grief was found to persist during participation. Another finding involved the impact of the role of the palliative home-care team on bereavement support. To evaluate the experience of participating in a bereavement group, the use the 6S’s as a model was a strength of the analysis. Bereavement groups could enhance the self and offer relief from grief. Participation was described as social relationships that offered a sense of coherence and understanding in grief. The effects of participation were more meaningful close to the loss and could lose efficacy over time. Bereavement support provided before a loved one’s death was seen as valuable.Conclusion: Overall, the bereavement groups eased the grief of significant others close to the death of their loved one. However, moving forward, several of the significant others were not sure that their participation eased their grief. To identify persons who may remain in a state of complicated grief, a routine of planned contacts with the bereaved should begin before death and be followed up later than six months after the death of a loved one.
Slip layer estimation of shallow landslides on Aso volcanic mountains in Japan based on tephra layer-physical properties of soil
Authors: Istiyanti Mega Lia , Goto Satoshi , Kimura Takashi , Sato Go , Hayashi Shintaro , Wakai Akihiko , Higaki Daisuke
Published: August 2020

Shallow landslides occur frequently on the Aso volcanic mountains. The soil material on the Aso volcanic mountains consists of tephra layers formed by volcanic activities. This study is aimed at determining the physical properties of soil that correlate with the slip surface of a shallow landslide on the volcanic mountain area. Tephra layers consist of kuroboku and scoria layers and the differences between these layers have been determined using the physical properties of soil methods. This study showed that the plasticity index and the fine fraction content can be used for estimating the slip layer in the Aso volcanic area.
5-Hydroxytryptamine-3 Receptor Antagonist and Dexamethasone as Prophylaxis for Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting during Moderately Emetic Chemotherapy for Solid Tumors: A Multicenter, Prospective, Observational Study
Authors: Matsui Reiko , Suzuki Kenichi , Takiguchi Tomomi , Nishio Makoto , Koike Takeshi , Hayashi Toshinobu , Seto Takashi , Kogure Yuki , Nogami Naoyuki , Fujiwara Kimiko , Kaneda Hiroyasu , Harada Tomohiko , Shimizu Satoru , Kimura Masashi , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Goto Koichi
Published: August 2020

Background: Of patients receiving moderate emetic risk chemotherapy (MEC), 30%–90% experience chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV); however, the optimal antiemetic treatment remains controversial.Methods: In this multicenter, prospective, observational study of adults treated with MEC while receiving chemotherapy for various cancer types in Japan, the enrolled patients kept diaries documenting CINV. All participants received a 5-hydroxytryptamine-3 receptor antagonist and dexamethasone.Results: Of the 400 patients enrolled from May 2013 to January 2015, 386 were eligible for evaluation. The median age was 64 (range, 26–84). The overall complete response (CR; no emetic events and no antiemetic measures) rate was 64%. The proportion of patients showing CR was low in the carboplatin (CBDCA)- and oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy groups, especially among women. We showed that the CR rates in men were high in the CBDCA (AUC5) + etoposide (ETP) (80%), capecitabine plus oxaliplatin (CAPOX) (78%), and CBDCA+ paclitaxel (PTX) groups for lung cancer (73%). Total control (TC; no emetic events, no antiemetic measures, and no nausea) and complete control (CC; no emetic events, no antiemetic measures, and less than mild nausea) were achieved in 51% and 61% of patients, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed history of motion sickness, history of pregnancy-associated vomiting and CBDCA-based chemotherapy as risk factors for CR and history of motion sickness and history of pregnancy-associated vomiting as risk factors for TC. Additional, Ages ≥65 years is an independent predictive factor for achieving TC.Conclusion: Our data showed that two antiemetics were insufficient to control CINV in patients receiving CBDCA- or oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. However, two antiemetics may be sufficiently effective for elderly male patients receiving CBDCA (AUC5)+ETP, CBDCA+PTX for lung cancer, or CAPOX. Additionally, we consider that three antiemetics are necessary for women with colorectal cancer receiving CAPOX. Risk factor analysis related to CR showed that CINV prophylaxis in patients treated with CBDCA-based chemotherapy was generally supportive of the guideline-recommended three antiemetics. However, the control of nausea in patients receiving non-CBDCA-based chemotherapy is a key point to note. The further individualization of antiemetic regimens for patients receiving MEC based on both types of chemotherapy regimens and sex is needed.
Clinical and Genetic Characteristics of Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease in Oman
Authors: Alawi Intisar Al , Molinari Elisa , Salmi Issa Al , Rahbi Fatma Al , Mawali Adhra Al , Sayer John A.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

There is a high prevalence of rare genetic disorders in the Middle East, and their study provides unique clinical and genetic insights. Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is one of the leading causes of kidney and liver-associated morbidity and mortality in Oman. We describe the clinical and genetic profile of cohort of ARPKD patients.

Methods

We studied patients with a clinical diagnosis of ARPKD ( n =40) and their relatives [parents ( n =24) and unaffected siblings ( n =10)] from 32 apparently unrelated families, who were referred to the National Genetic Centre in Oman between January 2015 and December 2018. Genetic analysis of PKHD1 was performed through next generation sequencing (NGS) and Sanger sequencing.

Results

A clinical diagnosis of ARPKD was made prenatally in 8 patients, 21 were diagnosed during infancy (0-1 year), 9 during early childhood (2-8 years) and 2 at later ages (9-13 years). Clinical phenotypes included polycystic kidneys, hypertension, hepatic fibrosis and splenomegaly. 24 patients had documented chronic kidney disease. 24 out of the 32 families had a family history suggesting an autosomal recessive pattern of inherited kidney disease, and there was known consanguinity in 21 families (66%). A molecular genetic diagnosis with biallelic PKHD1 mutations was confirmed in 38 patients from 30 different families, giving a detection rate of 94%. Two unrelated patients remained genetically unsolved. In all of the solved cases, only four different PKHD1 missense pathogenic variants were identified: c.107C>T, p.(Thr36Met); c.406A>G, p.(Thr136Ala); c.4870C>T, p.(Arg1624Trp) and c.9370C>T, p.(His3124Tyr) located in exons 3, 6, 32 and 58, respectively. The c.406A>G, p.(Thr136Ala) missense mutation was detected homozygously in one family and heterozygously with a c.107C>T, p.(Thr36Met) allele in 5 other families. Overall, the most commonly detected pathogenic allele was c.107C>T; (Thr36Met), which was seen in 24 families.

Conclusion

Molecular genetic screening of PKHD1 in clinically suspected ARPKD cases produced a high diagnostic rate. The four PKHD1 missense variants identified suggest there may be common founder alleles in the Omani population. Cost effective targeted PCR analysis of these specific alleles can be a useful diagnostic tool for future cases of suspected ARPKD in Oman.
Genetic deletion of microRNA-22 blunts the inflammatory transcriptional response to status epilepticus and exacerbates epilepsy in mice
Authors: Silva Luiz FA , Reschke Cristina R , Nguyen Ngoc T , Langa Elena , Rodriguez Amaya Sanz , Gerbatin Rogerio R , Temp Fernanda R. , Freitas Mayara L. , Conroy Ronan M , Brennan Gary P , Engel Tobias , Henshall David C
Published: August 2020

MicroRNAs perform important roles in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Sequencing as well as functional studies using antisense oligonucleotides, indicate important roles for microRNAs during the development of epilepsy through targeting transcripts involved in neuronal structure, gliosis and inflammation. MicroRNA-22 (miR-22) has been reported to protect against the development of epileptogenic brain networks through suppression of neuroinflammatory signalling. Here, we used mice with a genetic deletion of miR-22 to extend these insights. Mice lacking miR-22 displayed normal behaviour and brain structure and developed similar status epilepticus after intraamygdala kainic acid compared to wildtype animals. Continuous EEG monitoring after status epilepticus revealed an accelerated and exacerbated epilepsy phenotype whereby spontaneous seizures began sooner, occurred more frequently and were of longer duration in miR-22-deficient mice. RNA sequencing analysis of the hippocampus during the period of epileptogenesis revealed a specific suppression of inflammatory signalling in the hippocampus of miR-22-deficient mice. Taken together, these findings indicate a role for miR-22 in establishing early inflammatory responses to status epilepticus. Inflammatory signalling may serve anti-epileptogenic functions and cautions the timing of anti-inflammatory interventions for the treatment of status epilepticus.
The use of pre-operative virtual reality to reduce anxiety in women undergoing gynaecological surgeries: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Chan Jason Ju In , Yeam Cheng Teng , Kee Hwei Min , Tan Chin Wen , Sultana Rehena , Sia Alex Tiong Heng , SNG Ban Leong
Published: August 2020

Background: Pre-operative anxiety is common and is associated with negative surgical outcomes. Virtual reality (VR) is a promising new technology that offers opportunities to modulate patient experience and cognition and has been shown to be associated with lower levels of anxiety. In this study, we investigated changes in pre-operative anxiety levels before and after using VR in patients undergoing minor gynecological surgery. Methods: Patients who underwent elective minor gynecological surgeries in KK Women’s and Children’s hospital, Singapore were recruited. The VR intervention consisted of 10-minute exposure via a headset loaded with sceneries, background meditation music and breathing exercises. For the primary outcome of pre-operative anxiety, patients were assessed at pre- and post-intervention using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Secondary outcomes of self-reported satisfaction scores and EurQol 5-dimension 3-level (EQ-5D-3L) were also collected. Results: Data analysis from 108 patients revealed that HADS anxiety scores were significantly reduced from 7.2 ± 3.3 pre-intervention to 4.6 ± 3.0 post-intervention (p<0.0001). Furthermore, HADS depression scores were significantly reduced from 4.7 ± 3.3 pre-intervention to 2.9 ± 2.5 post-intervention (p<0.0001). Eighty-two percent of the patients self-reported VR intervention as ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’. EQ-5D-3L showed no significant changes in dimensions of ‘mobility’ (p=0.32) or ‘self-care’ (p=NA) but significant changes in dimensions of ‘usual activities’ (p=0.025), ‘pain/discomfort’ (p=0.008) and ‘anxiety/ depression’ (p<0.0001). Conclusions: For patients undergoing minor gynecological procedures, the VR intervention brought about a significant reduction in pre-operative anxiety. This finding may be clinically important to benefit patients with high pre-operative anxiety without the use of anxiolytics. Future studies could include large scale randomized controlled trials in multiple surgical populations. Trial registration: This study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov registry (NCT03685422) on 26 Sep 2018.
Geospatial Approach For Assessment Of Vulnerability To Flood In Local Self Governments 
Authors: S Deepak , Rajan Gopika , G Jairaj P
Published: August 2020

Recent years have shown a significant increase in the occurrence of floods globally, with an impact on habitation and different sectors of the economy. This, in turn, necessitates the use of different flood mitigation strategies, wherein flood vulnerability assessment plays a significant role. The proposed work presents a methodology that combines vulnerability under physical-environmental and socio-economic domains to assess the overall flood vulnerability at the local self-government level. The methodology was illustrated to the case of Aluva municipality, located on the banks of River Periyar, in Kerala state, India. The spatial variation of hazard inducing factors and population statistics were analysed using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools. The machine learning algorithm, Random Forest, which uses hazard inducing factors as input was implemented for the evaluation of physical-environmental vulnerability. The social vulnerability of the region was analysed using the GIS Multi-criteria decision analysis approach (MCDA), with criteria weights to incorporate the interests of different stakeholders. The critical combinations of the two domains of vulnerability in the assessment of the vulnerability to flood, to have efficient flood management in local self-government was demonstrated in this study and can be made use of for any flood event.
Articular chondrocyte-derived exosomes promote cartilage differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells by activation of autophagy
Authors: Ma Ke , Zhu Bo , Wang Zetao , Cai Peian , He Mingwei , Ye Danyan , Yan Guohua , Zheng Li , Yang Lujun , Zhao Jinmin
Published: August 2020

Background

Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (HUCMSC)-based therapies were previously utilised for cartilage regeneration because of the chondrogenic potential of MSCs. However, chondrogenic differentiation of HUMSCs is limited by the administration of growth factors like TGF-β that may cause cartilage hypertrophy. It has been reported that exosomes could modulate the phenotypic expression of stem cells. However, the role of human chondrogenic-derived exosomes (C-EXOs) in chondrogenic differentiation of HUCMSCs has not been reported.

Results

In this study, we successfully isolated chondrocyte-derived exosomes (C-EXO) from human multi-finger cartilage and found that C-EXO efficiently promoted the proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation of HUCMSCs, evidenced by highly expressed aggrecan (ACAN), COL2A and SOX-9. Also, the expression of the fibrotic marker, COL1A and hypertrophic marker, COL10, was significantly lower than that induced by TGF-β. In vivo, stimulation of C-EXO accelerated HUCMSCs-mediated cartilage repair in rabbit models. Furthermore, C-EXO led to increasing autophagosomes during the process of chondrogenic differentiation, indicating that C-EXO promoted cartilage regeneration might be through the activation of autophagy.

Conclusions

C-EXOs play an essential role in fostering chondrogenic differentiation and proliferation of HUCMSCs, which may be beneficial for articular cartilage repair.
E3 ubiquitin ligase FBW7-mediated ubiquitination of EZH2 prevents type I diabetes in NOD mice
Authors: Tian Jiamei , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Shanshan
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to erroneous posting.
Diversity patterns of soil microbial communities in the Sophora flavescens rhizosphere in response to continuous monocropping
Authors: Lei Haiying , Liu Ake , Hou Qinwen , Zhao Qingsong , Guo Jia , Wang Zhijun
Published: August 2020

Background: Continuous monocropping can affect the physicochemical and biological characteristics of cultivated soil. Sophora flavescens is a valuable herbal medicine and sensitive to continuous monocropping. Currently, diversity patterns of soil microbial communities in soil continuous monocropping with S. flavescens have not been extensively elucidated.Results: In this study, comparative 16S rDNA and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) MiSeq sequencing analyses were used to examine the taxonomic community structure and microbial diversity in nonrhizosphere soil (CK) and rhizosphere soils (SCC, TCC, and FCC) sampled from fields that had undergone two, three, and five years of continuous monocropping, respectively. Among the microbial communities, a decreased abundance of Acidobacteria and increased abundances of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes were found with the increase in monocropping years of S. flavescens. As the continuous monocropping time increased, the diversity of the bacterial community decreased, but that of fungi increased. Redundancy analysis also showed that among the properties of the rhizosphere soil, the available phosphorus, organic matter, total nitrogen, and sucrase had the greatest impacts on the diversity of the rhizosphere microbial community. Moreover, a biomarker for S. flavescens soil was also identified using the most differentially abundant bacteria and fungi in soil samples.Conclusions: Our study indicates that long-term monocropping exerted great impacts on microbial community distributions and soil physicochemical properties. The relationship between microbial community and physicochemical properties of rhizosphere soil would help clarify the side effects of continuous S. flavescens monocropping. Our study may aid in uncovering the theoretical basis underlying obstacles to continuous monocropping and provide better guidance for crop production.
Validation of the Italian version of the Revised Prenatal Coping Inventory (NuPCI) and its correlations with Pregnancy-Specific Stress.
Authors: Penengo Chiara , Colli Chiara , Garzitto Marco , Driul Lorenza , Cesco Maddalena , Balestrieri Matteo
Published: August 2020

Background: Pregnancy is a period of happiness but also of physical and psychological changes that can lead to distress. Functional coping strategies can reduce the pregnancy specific-stress. This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Revised Prenatal Coping Inventory (NuPCI) in an Italian sample and to investigate how coping strategies were associated with pregnancy-specific stress.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, low-risk pregnant women (N=211) were assessed with NuPCI, NuPDQ (Revised-Prenatal Distress Questionnaire), Brief-COPE (Coping Orientation to the Problems Experienced), and STAI (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory). The reliability of NuPCI was evaluated by assessing its internal consistency and factor structure (with a Confirmatory Factor Analysis, CFA). The concurrent validity between NuPCI and Brief-COPE and NuPDQ and STAI was investigated. Lastly, the relationship between NuPCI and NuPDQ was analyzed, as well as the ability of these scales to predict Apgar score at birth.Results: Internal consistency of NuPCI scales was good for Planning-Preparation (ɑC=0.84) and Spiritual-Positive Coping (ɑC=0.81) scales, acceptable for Avoidance (ɑC=0.76) scale. Moreover, the original three-factor structure was confirmed using a Confirmatory Factor Analysis with 29 of the 32 items (χ2374=618.06; RMSEA=0.056, 95% confidence interval: [0.048, 0.063]); CFI=0.920; and TLI=0.913). Statistically significant correlations between NuPCI scales and Brief-COPE subscales ranged between r=+0.217 and r=+0.624; also, NuPDQ score was positively correlated with STAI scales (State scale: r=+0.539; Trait scale: r=+0.462). Concurrent validity was confirmed reporting that NuPDQ score was predicted by NuPCI scores (R2=0.423, p<0.001), positively by Avoidance (β=+0.572) and Planning-Preparation (β=+0.215) and negatively by Spiritual-Positive Coping (β=-0.132). Finally, considering the stress, the effect of the Avoidance and Spiritual-Positive Coping scores respectively in decreasing (+155%) and increasing (+16%) the Apgar score became stronger.Conclusions: Italian NuPCI has sound psychometric properties and it is a useful coping measure. NuPDQ showed also a good validity. Our results may suggest a significant role for coping strategies, particularly in modulating the condition of the newborn at birth.
Association of alanine transaminase to aspartate aminotransferase ratio and incident diabetes in Chinese adults: a second retrospective cohort study
Authors: Liang Zhilin , Hu Haofei , Wang Xunxun , Chen Xianxiong , Liu Zhigang , Zhang Min
Published: August 2020

Background : Previous studies have indicated that serum alanine aminotransferase ( ALT ) level, serum aspartate aminotransferase ( AST ) level or ALT/AST ratio may be bound up with diabetes. But the association of ALT/AST ratio and incident diabetes in Chinese adults have not been elaborated yet. The main objective of the present study was to analyze whether ALT/AST ratio was an independent risk factor which attached to the risk of incident diabetes in Chinese adults. Methods: From 2010 to 2016, 685,277 Chinese adults who received a health check in Rich Healthcare Group including all medical records, and the present article was a second retrospective cohort analysis based on above population. As the target independent variable, ALT/AST ratio was measured at baseline while the dependent variable, incident diabetes appeared during follow-up. We used Cox proportional hazard regression models to analyze the prognostic value of ALT/AST on the risk of incident diabetes. Results: ALT/AST demonstrated undeniable correlation with incident diabetes (HR=2.535, 95%CI: 2.190 to 2.934, P <0.00001). The association between ALT/AST and incident diabetes is only linear. The cumulative incidence (95% CI) rate of incident diabetes in total participants, ALT/AST quartile 1, 2, 3, and 4 was 2.112 (2.016-2.208), 0.992 (.0.857-1.127), 1.430 (1.274-1.586), 2.396 (2.192-2.600) and 3.559 (3.314-3.803), separately. The population with age (30 to <40 years), BMI (<24kg/m2) and SBP (<140mmHg) was found to be the stronger association in subgroup analysis. Conclusion: In Chinese adults, ALT/AST ratio is an independent risk factor for incident diabetes .
Retrospective cohort study on radial head arthroplasty comparing long-term outcomes between valgus type injury and fracture dislocation
Authors: Chen Alvin Chao-Yu , Weng Chun-Jui , Chiu Chih-Hao , Chang Shih-Sheng , Cheng Chun-Ying , Chan Yi-Sheng
Published: August 2020

Background: Radial head arthroplasty (RHA) has been commonly adopted for irreparable radial head fractures while little information is addressed on valgus type injury. The purpose of this study is to report long-term outcomes and radiographic analysis in RHA for valgus type injury with comparison to fracture dislocation injury.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients receiving unilateral RHA with loose-fit, modular metal prosthesis for irreparable radial head fractures between 2004 and 2012. Totally, 33 patients with a mean follow up of nine years (range, 7 to 15 years) were enrolled and divided into two groups including 14 valgus injuries and 19 fracture-dislocations. Demographics of the patients, injury details, clinical and radiographic outcomes, and correlation analysis were investigated and compared between two groups.Results: In patient demographics, significant difference was noted in sex distribution, lateral collateral ligament involvement and time from injury to RHA between two groups. No patient underwent subsequent removal or revision of prosthesis. Good to excellent results according to Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was achieved in 13 and 14 patients in group A and B respectively. Final motion range and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was significantly better in valgus injury group. Radiographic analysis demonstrated fewer patients in valgus injury group presented periprosthetic osteolysis with weak to moderate negative correlation between radiolucency score and MEPS.Conclusions: With an average of nine years follow-up, RHA using loose-fit, modular metal prosthesis achieves encouraging outcomes for both valgus injury and fracture dislocation. In valgus type injury, better motion range, lower disability score and lower incidence of periprosthetic osteolysis is noted while correlation analysis of radiolucency score suggests extended, long-term investigation.
A Genetic Predictive Model for Precision Treatment of Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma with Early Progression
Authors: Ma Jialin , Yan Zheng , Zhang Jiuyang , Zhou Wenping , Yao Zhihua , Wang Haiying , Chu Junfeng , Yao Shuna , Zhao Shuang , Zhang Peipei , Xu Yuanlin , Xia Qingxin , Ma Jie , Wei Bing , Yang Shujun , Liu Kangdong , Guo Yongjun , liu yanyan
Published: August 2020

Background: Early progression after the first-line R-CHOP treatment leads to a very dismal outcome and necessitates alternative treatment for patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). This study aimed to develop a genetic predictive model for early progression and evaluate its potential in advancing alternative treatment. Methods: Thirty-two hotspot driver genes were examined in 145 DLBCL patients and 5 DLBCL cell lines using next-generation sequencing. The association of clinical features, cell-of-origin, double expression, positive p53 protein, and gene alterations with early progression was analyzed, and the genetic predictive model was developed based on the related independent variables and assessed by the area under receiver operating characteristic. The potential of novel treatment based on the modeling was investigated in in vitro DLBCL cell lines and in vivo xenograft mouse models. Results: The frequency of CD79B (42.86% vs 9.38%, p = 0.000) and PIM1 mutations (38.78% vs 17.71%, p = 0.005) showed a significant increase in patients with early progression. CD79B and PIM1 mutations were associated with complex genetic events, double expression, non-GCB subtype, advance stage and unfavorable prognosis. A powerful genetic predictive model (AUROC = 0.771, 95% CI: 0.689-0.853) incorporating lactate dehydrogenase levels (OR = 2.990, p = 0.018), CD79B mutations (OR = 5.970, p = 0.001), and PIM1 mutations (OR = 3.021, p = 0.026) was created and verified in the other cohort. This modeling for early progression outperformed the prediction accuracy of conventional International Prognostic Index, and new molecular subtypes of MCD and Cluster 5. CD79B and PIM1 mutations indicated a better response to inhibitors of BTK (ibrutinib) and pan-PIM kinase (AZD 1208) through repressing activated oncogenic signaling. Since the two inhibitors failed to decrease BCL2 level, BCL2 inhibitor (venetoclax) was added and demonstrated to enhance their apoptosis-inducing activity in mutant cells with double expression. Conclusions: The genetic predictive model provides a robust tool to identify early progression and determine precision treatment. These findings warrant the development of optimal alternative treatment in clinical trials.
Associations of physical performance and physical activity with mental well-being in middle-aged women
Authors: Bondarev Dmitriy , Sipilä Sarianna , Finni Taija , Kujala Urho M. , Aukee Pauliina , Kovanen Vuokko , Laakkonen Eija , Kokko Katja
Published: August 2020

Purpose
To investigate the associations of physical performance with positive and negative dimensions of mental well-being in middle-aged women and to explore the role of physical activity (PA) in these associations.
Methods
Women aged 47–55 (n = 909) participated in measurements of physical performance (handgrip force, knee extension force, vertical jumping height, maximal walking speed, and six-minute walking distance). Both mental well-being (the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the International Positive and Negative Affect Schedule Short Form and the Satisfaction with Life Scale) and PA were self-reported. Associations between variables were analysed using multivariate linear regression modelling adjusted for body height, fat mass, menopausal status and symptoms, marital status, parity, employment status, self-reported mental disorders, and use of psycholeptics and psychoanaleptics. PA was then entered into a separate model to explore its role in the associations.
Results
In the adjusted models, significant positive associations of six-minute walking distance with positive affectivity (B = 0.12, p = 0.002) and life satisfaction (B = 0.15, p = 0.033) were observed. No significant associations were observed between physical performance and depressive symptoms or negative affectivity. PA was positively associated with positive affectivity and life satisfaction and negatively with depressive symptoms across all the physical performance predictors.
Conclusion
Of the physical performance measures, six-minute walking distance was associated with positive mental well-being independently of PA level. In addition to PA, aerobic component of physical performance is especially beneficial for positive mental well-being in middle-aged women.
Effect of Local Steroid Injection for Acute Anterior Talofibular Ligament Partial Tear: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Liu Chung-Ting , Yang Ten-Fang , Chen Wei-Cheng
Published: August 2020

Background: The symptoms of acute ankle anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) partial tear includes pain, swelling, and range of motion limitation. Local steroid injection can provide strong anti-inflammatory effect. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of local steroid injection for acute ATFL partial tear in short term.Materials and Methods:This is a prospective randomized study. Forty patients with acute isolated ATFL partial tear diagnosed by sonography were equally separated into two groups. The steroid group received 1cc Diprospan local injection whereas the control group received 1cc normal saline injection. We used sonography to check the tendon rupture status before injection, 6 weeks and 12 weeks after injection. We also used American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and Pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score to evaluate the function and pain before injection, 1 week, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks after injection. Student t test was used to compare the statistically significant difference between groups.Result:There was no deteriorating of ATFL tear found by sonography in both groups until 12 weeks. The average AOFAS score was higher than 80 after 1 weeks in steroid group while the score was higher than 80 after 3 weeks in control group. AOFAS score was significantly higher in steroid group for the first 3 weeks after injection (p = 3.2x10-7 and 0.022, at 1 week and 3 weeks respectively), but there was no significant difference between groups afterward. VAS score was significant higher in steroid group only in the first week (p = 0.0073) and there was no significant difference between groups afterward Conclusion:Steroid local injection can safely shorten the period of functional disability and relieve pain for acute ATFL partial tear in short term.Trial registration:ChiCTR, ChiCTR2000029629, registered 07 February 2020http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=49198
Enhanced Tolerance to Drought Stress Resulting from Caragana Korshinskii CkWRKY33 in Transgenic Arabidopsis Thaliana
Authors: Li Zhen , Liang Fengping , Zhang Tianbao , Fu Na , Pei Xinwu , Long Yan
Published: August 2020

Background: It is well known that WRKY transcription factors play important roles in plant growth and development, defense regulation and stress responses.Results: In this study, a WRKY transcription factor, WRKY33, was cloned from Caragana korshinskii. A sequence structure analysis showed that it belonged to the Group-I type. Subcellular localization experiments in tobacco epidermal cells showed the presence of CkWRKY33 in the nucleus. Additionally, CkWRKY33 was overexpressed in Arabidopsis thaliana. A phenotypic investigation revealed that compared with wild-type plants CkWRKY33-overexpressing transgenic plants had higher survival rates, as well as relative water, soluble sugar, proline and peroxidase contents, but lower malondialdehyde contents, following a drought stress treatment. Conclusions: This suggested that the overexpression of CkWRKY33 led to an enhanced drought-stress tolerance in transgenic A. thaliana. Thus, CkWRKY33 may act as a positive regulator involved in the drought-stress responses in Caragana korshinskii.
The Morphology of Patella changed significantly after Soft Tissue Correction for children with Recurrent Patella Dislocation
Authors: Niu Jinghui , Qi Qi , Hao Kuo , Lin Wei , Piao Kang , Wang Fei
Published: August 2020

Background: Although morphological improvement of femoral trochlea has been investigated in children with patella dislocation after surgery, whether the patellar shape changed under the same condition is still unknown. The purpose of the study was to investigate the changes of patella morphology in transverse plane following surgical correction of recurrent patella dislocation in children.Methods: A total of 22 patients with a mean age of 9.9 years (7 to 12) were included. All had unilateral recurrent patella dislocation. The knees with recurrent patella dislocation were treated with medial patellar retinaculum plasty and defined as the study group. The contralateral knees with no symptom of patellar instability were considered as the control group. All patients were treated between October 2014 and August 2018. Axial CT (Computed Tomography) scans were undertaken in all patients to assess the patella morphological characteristics on a particular axial image preoperatively and at the final follow-up.Results: There are not significant differences about patellar transverse diameter, thickness and Wiberg angle between study group and control group before surgery and at the last follow-up respectively ( The mean follow-up period: 28.0 ± 3.3 months). However, before surgery, the Wiberg-index in the study group (0.74 ± 0.06) is significantly different from that in the control group (0.64 ± 0.04). At the last follow-up, the Wiberg-index in the study group (0.67 ± 0.05) and the control group (0.65 ± 0.04) are not significantly different. Also, in the study group, the Wiberg-index at the last follow-up is significantly lower than that before surgery (P ＜ 0.05). The Wiberg-index in the control group is not significantly different before surgery and at the last follow-up. Conclusion: The patella morphology can change significantly after surgical procedures in children (before epiphyseal closure) with patellar recurrent dislocation
Effect of Vitamin C on mortality of critically ill patients with severe pneumonia in intensive care unit
Authors: Mahmoodpoor Ata , Shadvar Kamran , Sanaie Sarvin , Hadipoor Mir Reza , Pourmoghaddam Mohammad Ata , saghaleini seied hadi
Published: August 2020

Background: Critically ill patients are frequently suffering from vitamin C deficiency. Previous studies showed that high doses of vitamin C administration had conflicting results on clinical outcomes in patients with severe sepsis, burns and trauma. Because of high incidence and morbidity/mortality with severe pneumonia, we aimed to investigate the effect of administration of high dose vitamin C in critically ill patients with severe pneumonia.Methods: Eighty critically ill patients with pneumonia were enrolled in this randomized double blinded clinical trial. Patients with CURB-65 score >3, one major criteria, or ≥3 minor criteria were considered as severe pneumonia. Patients were randomly assigned to intervention or placebo groups receiving standard treatment plus 60 mg/kg/day vitamin C as continuous infusion or normal saline in the same volume correspondingly for 96 hours. Serum levels of vitamin C were noted at baseline and 48 hours after vitamin C administration. Duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU length of stay, PaO2/FiO2 and mortality rate were noted for all patients till the 28th day. Any complications related to vitamin C administration were recorded. (IRCT registration number: IRCT20190312043030N1 , Registration date: 2019-08-26, seied hadi saghaleini).Results: Duration of mechanical ventilation and vasopressor use were significantly lower in intervention group (p: <0.001 and 0.003, respectively). Baseline levels of vitamin C in both groups did not have significant difference but its levels increased in intervention group and decreased in control group during the study period. Mortality rate insignificantly decreased in intervention group (p: 0.17). Three patients showed hypotension and tachycardia during the administration of vitamin C which was self-limited with decreasing the dose of vitamin C.Conclusion: Our results showed that the intravenous administration of a relatively high dose of vitamin C to critically ill patients with severe pneumonia was safe and could decrease the inflammation, mechanical ventilation duration and vasopressor use without any significant effect on mortality.