bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RoadMApp: A feasibility study for a smart travel application to improve maternal health delivery in a low resource setting in Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyati-Jokomo Zibusiso , Dabengwa Israel Mbekezeli , Makacha Liberty , Nyapwere Newton , Dube Yolisa Prudence , Chikoko Laurine , Vidler Marianne , Makanga Prestige Tatenda
Published: August 2020

Background: Travel time and healthcare financing are critical determinants of the provision of quality maternal health care in low resource settings. Despite the availability of pregnancy-related mHealth and smart travel applications, there is a lack of evidence on their usage to travel to health facilities for routine antenatal care and emergencies. There is a shortage of information about the feasibility of using a custom-made mobile technology that integrates smart travel and mHealth. This paper explores the feasibility of implementing a custom-made geographically enabled mobile technology-based tool (RoadMApp) to counter the adverse effects of long travel times for maternal care in Kwekwe District, Zimbabwe.Methods: We frame the paper using the first two steps (listen & plan) of the Spiral Technology Action Research (STAR model).The paper uses an exploratory case study design and Participatory Learning Approaches (PLA) with stakeholders (community members) and in-depth interviews with key informants (health care service providers, pregnant women, transport operators). 193 participants took part in the study. We conducted focus group discussions with pregnant women, women of childbearing age, men (household heads), and elderly women. The discussion questions centered on travel time, availability of transport, cellular network coverage, and perceptions of the RoadMApp application. Data were analysed thematically using Nvivo Pro 12.Results: Most parts of rural Kwekwe are far from health facilities and have an inefficient road and telecommunications network. Hence, it is hard to predict if RoadMApp will integrate into the lives of the community - especially those in rural areas. Since these issues are pillars of the design of the RoadMApp mHealth, the implementation will probably be a challenge.Conclusion: Communities are keen to embrace the RoadMApp application. However, the feasibility of implementing RoadMApp in Kwekwe District will be a challenge because of maternal health care barriers such as poor road network, poor phone network, and the high cost of transport. There is a need to investigate the social determinants of access to maternity services to inform RoadMApp implementation.
Efficacy and cardiovascular safety of the new estrogen-free contraceptive pill containing 4 mg drospirenone alone in a 24/4 regime. Cardiovascular safety of the new estrogen-free contraceptive pill containing 4 mg drospirenone alone in a 24/4 regime.
Authors: Palacios Santiago , Colli Enrico , Regidor Pedro Antonio
Published: August 2020

Background: A new estrogen-free contraceptive has been approved by both the FDA and more than 15 European authorities. It is composed of drospirenone at a dosage of 4 mg in a regimen 24/4. The molecule is known to have anti-gonadotropic, anti-mineralocorticoid, anti-estrogenic, and antiandrogenic properties.Methods: The purpose of these clinical trials with a new estrogen-free contraceptive was to introduce a method with high efficacy and showing a profile with low cardiovascular risks.Study design: Three European and American multicenter clinical trials have been conducted in more than 2.500 patients and more than 25.000 cycles, not only demonstrating an excellent efficacy (Pearl Index of 0.73) but also investigating possible cardiovascular risks. In the USA study, 422 participants (41,9 %) had a risk factor for VTE, while in the European studies, 261 patients (16,6 %) had at least one VTE risk factor. Amount of arterial and venous thromboembolic events, hemostasiological data, blood pressure development, and ECG data were evaluated. Results: No single case of VTE was documented, no changes in hemastosiological parameters were observed, a small decrease in RR in patients with pretreatment values between 130 and 140 and7or 85 to 90 mm HG and no influence on ECG parameters were observed.Conclusions: The introduction of a new estrogen-free contraceptive with 4 mg of non-micronized drospirenone in a 24/4-day regimen expands contraception options for women as not only a high efficacy could be demonstrated during clinical trials but also a very high cardiovascular safety profile was observed even in women with cardiovascular risk factors.EudraCT registration numbers: 2010-021787-15 & 2011-002396-42. Clincaltrials.gov: NCT02269241
Imaging analysis of 13 rare cases of renal collecting (Bellini) duct carcinoma patients in northen China.
Authors: Lyu Zhehao , Liu Lili , Li Huimin , Wang Haibo , Liu Qi , Chen Tingting , Xu Meiling , Tian Lin , Fu Peng
Published: August 2020

Background: Collective duct carcinoma (CDC) is a highly malignant kidney tumor which is rare in clinical. We report our 12-year experience of Collecting (Bellini) duct carcinoma (CDC) and retrospectively analyzed patients and tumour characteristics, clinical manifestations, different imaging characteristics including CT, MRI and PET/CT. Methods: From January 2007 to December 2019, we retrospectively examined all renal tumors and identifed 13 cases of CDC from 3 medical centers in the northern China. All 13 patients underwent CT scan, 8 of whom underwent dynamic enhanced CT scan, 2 underwent PET/CT scan and 1 underwent MRCP examination. The lesions were divided into nephritis type and mass type according to the morphology of the tumors.Results: The study group included 10 men and 3 women, with an average age of 64.23±10.74 years old. Of these 13 patients, the main clinical manifestations include gross hematuria, flank pain or waist discomfort. The mean tumour size was 8.48 ± 2.48 cm. In this group of cases, 6 (46.2%) cases are cortical-medullary involved type, 7 (53.8%) cases are cortex-medullary-pelvis involved type. 11 (84.6%) cases were nephritis type and 2 (15.4%) cases were mass type. The lesions appeared solid or complex solid and cystic on CT and MRI. The parenchymal part of 13 CDC tumors showed isodensity or slightly higher density on unenhanced CT scan. the parenchymal part of 13 CDC tumors showed isodensity or slightly higher density on unenhanced CT scan. Two patients with PET/CT showed increased radioactivity intake. Evidence of intra-abdominal metastatic disease was present on CT in 9 ( 69.2% ) cases. The incidence of metastasis reached 69%.Conclusions: The Collecting (Bellini) duct carcinoma has its certain imaging characteristics which were different from the other renal cell carcinoma. A renal tumor should be considered as CDC when it locates in the junction zone of the renal cortex and medulla, with unclear border, slight enhancement and metastases in early stage. PET/CT can greatly enrich the key information of diagnosis, surgery and treatment options, which provide significant help to the clinic.
CT, US and MRI of Xanthine Urinary Stones: An In-Vitro Analysis
Authors: Shamir Stephanie , Peng Qi , Schoenfeld Alan , Drzewiecki Beth , Liszewski Mark
Published: August 2020

Background: Xanthine urinary stones are a rare entity that may occur in patients with Lesch-Nyhan Syndrome receiving allopurinol. There is little literature describing imaging characteristics of these stones, and the most appropriate approach to imaging these stones is therefore unclear. We performed an in-vitro analysis of xanthine stones using computed tomography (CT) at different energy levels, ultrasound (US), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: Five pure xanthine stones from a boy with Lesch-Nyhan were imaged. CT of the stones was performed at 80kVp, 100kVp, 120kVp and 140kVp and CT numbers of the stones were recorded in Hounsfield units (HU). US of the stones was performed and echogenicity, acoustic shadowing and twinkle artifact were assessed. MRI of the stones was performed and included T2-weighted, ultrashort echo-time (UTE)-weighted and T2/T1-weighted 3D bFFE sequences and signal was assessed.Results: On CT, xanthine stones were radiodense and the average attenuation coefficient did not differ with varying kVp, measuring 331.0+/-51.7HU at 80kVp, 321.4+/-63.4HU at 100kVp, 329.7+/-54.2HU at 120kVp and 328.4+/-61.1HU at 140kVp. On US, xanthine stones where echogenic with acoustic shadowing and twinkle artifact. On MRI, stones lacked signal on all tested sequences.Conclusion: Xanthine stones demonstrate imaging characteristics typical of most urinary stones: dense on CT, echogenic on US, and lack signal on MRI. Therefore, the approach to imaging xanthine urinary stones should identical to the approach with other urinary stones.
Mitochondrial-nuclear coadaptation revealed through mtDNA replacements in ﻿Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Nguyen Tuc H.M. , Sondhi Sargunvir , Ziesel Andrew , Paliwal Swati , Fiumera Heather
Published: August 2020

Background: Mitochondrial function requires numerous genetic interactions between mitochondrial- and nuclear- encoded genes. While selection for optimal mitonuclear interactions should result in coevolution between both genomes, evidence for mitonuclear coadaptation is challenging to document. Genetic models where mitonuclear interactions can be explored are needed. Results: We systematically exchanged mtDNAs between 15 Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolates from a variety of ecological niches to create 225 unique mitochondrial-nuclear genotypes. Analysis of phenotypic profiles confirmed that environmentally-sensitive interactions between mitochondrial and nuclear genotype contributed to growth differences. Exchanges of mtDNAs between strains of the same or different clades were just as likely to demonstrate mitonuclear epistasis although epistatic effect sizes increased with genetic distances. Strains with their original mtDNAs were more fit than strains with synthetic mitonuclear combinations when grown in media that resembled isolation habitats. Conclusions: This study shows that natural variation in mitonuclear interactions contributes to fitness landscapes. Multiple examples of coadapted mitochondrial-nuclear genotypes suggest that selection for mitonuclear interactions may play a role in helping yeasts adapt to novel environments and promote coevolution.
A qualitative analysis of vaccine decisionmakers’ conceptualization and fostering of ‘community engagement’ in India
Authors: Dutta Tapati , Meyerson Beth , Agley Jon , Barnes Priscilla , Sherwood-Laughlin Catherine , Nicholson-Crotty Jill
Published: August 2020

Background: Globally, and in India, research has highlighted the importance of community engagement in achieving national vaccination goals. However, community engagement is not well-defined and remains an underutilized approach to realizing health equity in this context. There is also paucity of literature on community engagement’s effectiveness in achieving vaccination outcomes. To address that gap, this study interviewed Indian vaccination decisionmakers to derive a shared understanding of the evolving conceptualization of community engagement, and how it has been fostered during India’s Decade of Vaccines (2010-2020).Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 purposefully sampled national-level vaccine decisionmakers in India, including policymakers, immunization program heads, and vaccine technical committee leads. Participants were identified by their ‘elite’ status among decisionmakers in the Indian vaccination space. Using Schutz’ Social Phenomenological theory, an a priori framework derived from the Social Ecological Model was used to guide coders’ conceptualizations of communities, community engagement, and related themes. Inter-rater reliability was computed for a subsample of coded interviews, and findings were validated in a one-day member check-in meeting with study participants and teams. Results: The interviews successfully elucidated participants’ understanding of key terminology (“community”) and approaches to community engagement propagated by the vaccine decisionmakers. Participants conceptualized ‘communities’ as vaccine-eligible children, their parents, frontline healthcare workers, and vaccination influencers. Engagement with those communities was understood to mean vaccine outreach, capacity-building of healthcare workers, and information dissemination. However, participants indicated that there were neither explicit policy guidelines defining community engagement nor pertinent evaluation metrics, despite awareness that community engagement is complex and under-researched. Examples of different approaches to community engagement ranged from vaccine imposition to empowered community vaccination decision-making. Finally, participants proposed an operational definition of community engagement and discussed concerns related to implementing it.Conclusions: Although decisionmakers had different perceptions about what constitutes a community, and how community engagement should optimally function, the combined group articulated its importance and reiterated the need for concerted political will to build trust with communities. At the same time, work remains to be done both in terms of research on community engagement as well as development of appropriate implementation and outcome metrics.
Deep-red emitting Mg2TiO4:Mn4+ phosphor ceramics for plant lighting
Authors: Wang Zixin , LIN Hui , Zhang Dawei , Shen Yiming , Li Yang , Hong Ruijin , Tao Chunxian , Han Zhaoxia , Chen Lei , Zhou Shengming
Published: August 2020

In this study, deep red emitting Mg2TiO4:Mn4+ phosphor ceramics were synthesized by the high temperature solid-state reaction method. The ceramics can be excited by the 465 nm blue light and had a narrow emission with a full width at half maximum (FWMH) value of 31 nm. The peak wavelength was located at 658 nm, which matched the demanded wavelength for photosynthesis. The crystal field strength (Dq) and the Racah parameters (B and C) were estimated by Tanabe-Sugano diagram. The thermal conductivity of the Mg2Ti(0.999)O4: 0.001Mn4+ ceramic was 7.535 W/(m·K) at room temperature, which was one order of magnitude higher than that of the traditional packaging method using the silicone gel. A set of phosphor converted LEDs were fabricated by mounting the phosphor ceramics onto the 460 nm blue LED chips and the CIE coordinates can move from the blue region to the purple light region with the thickness of the ceramic increasing. These results indicated that the Mg2TiO4:Mn4+ phosphor ceramic was suitable for plant lighting when combined with a blue LED chip.
Measuring the quality of nursing clinical placements. Development of the Placement Evaluation Tool (PET): A mixed methods co-design project
Authors: Cooper Simon , Cant Robyn , Waters Donna , Luders Elise , Henderson Amanda , Willetts Georgina , Tower Marion , Searl Kerry Reid , Ryan Colleen , Hood Kerry
Published: August 2020

Background: The quality of nursing clinical placements has been found to vary. Placement evaluation tools for nursing students are available but lack contemporary reviews of clinical settings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a feasible, valid and reliable clinical placement evaluation tool applicable to nursing student placements in Australia.Methods: An exploratory mixed methods co-design project. Phase 1 included a literature review; expert rating of potential question items and Nominal Group Technique meetings with a range of stakeholders for item development. Phase 2 included on-line pilot testing of the Placement Evaluation Tool (PET) with 1,263 nursing students, across all year levels at six Australian Universities and one further education college in 2019-20, to confirm validity, reliability and feasibility. Results: The PET included 19-items (rated on a 5-point agreement scale) and one global satisfaction rating (a 10-point scale). Placements were generally positively rated. The total scale score (19 items) revealed a median student rating of 81 points from a maximum of 95 and a median global satisfaction rating of 9/10. Criterion validity was confirmed by item correlation: Intra-class Correlation Co-efficient ICC = .709; scale total to global score r = .722; and items to total score ranging from .609 to .832. Strong concurrent validity was demonstrated with the Clinical Learning Environment and Supervision Scale (r= .834). Internal reliability was identified and confirmed in two subscale factors: Clinical Environment (Cronbach’s alpha = .94) and Learning Support (alpha = .96). Based on the short time taken to complete the survey (median 3.5 minutes) and students’ comments, the tool was deemed applicable and feasible. Conclusions: The PET was found to be valid, reliable and feasible. Use of the tool as a quality assurance measure is likely to improve education and practice in clinical environments. Further international evaluation of the instrument is required to fully determine its psychometric properties.
Zonal adjusted PSA density improves prostate cancer detection rates compared with PSA in Taiwanese males with PSA < 20 ng/mL
Authors: Chang Tsung-Hsin , Lin Wun-Rong , Tsai Wei-Kung , Chiang Pai-Kai , Chen Marcelo , Tseng Jen-Shu , Chiu Allen W
Published: August 2020

Background: The current study aimed to compare the efficacy of transition zone PSA density (TZPSAD) with traditional PSA and PSA density (PSAD), for the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) in Taiwanese males.Methods: Men with PSA between 4.0 and 20.0 ng/mL who underwent a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided prostate biopsy between the studied period were retrospectively identified. The demographic data, PSAD and TZPSAD were calculated in all patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the accuracy of a positive PCa diagnosis.Results: The area under the ROC (AUC) was 0.615, 0.748 and 0.746 for PSA, PSAD and TZPSAD, respectively. The best cut-off of value for TZPSAD in predicting PCa in men with a PSA of 4.0–10.0 ng/ml was 0.367 ng/ml/ml with a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 77.5%. In men with a PSA of 10.1–20.0 ng/ml, the best cut-off value was 0.454 ng/ml, with a sensitivity of 74.8% and specificity of 70.9%.Conclusion: The use of TZPSAD may improve the efficacy and specificity of PSA for the diagnosis of PCa in Taiwanese men with PSA 4.0–20.0 ng/ml. TZPSAD efficacy was similar to PSAD but TZPSAD had better specificity.
Duodenal major papilla morphology can affect biliary cannulation and complications during ERCP, an observational study
Authors: Chen Po-Han , Tung Chun-Fang , Peng Yen-Chung , Yeh Hong-Zen , Chang Chi-Sen , Chen ChiaChang
Published: August 2020

Background We investigated whether duodenal major papilla morphology could be a risk factor for failure of selective biliary cannulation (SBC) and post endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and pancreatography (ERCP) complications.Method A prospectively recorded database was reviewed retrospectively. Patients were included if they received therapeutic ERCP and had naïve major duodenal papilla. We used Haraldsson’s classification for papilla morphology, as follows: Regular (Type 1), Small (Type 2), Protruding or Pendulous (Type 3) and Creased or Ridged (Type 4). Risk factors for failing SBC and post-ERCP complications were analyzed by multivariate analysis.Results A total of 286 cases were included. Age, gender, indications and therapeutic procedures were not different among the four types of papillae. The failure rates of SBC with Type 3 papilla and Type 4 papilla were 11.11% and 6.25%, respectively. In the multivariate analysis, Type 2 papilla (odd ratio 7.18, p= 0.045) and Type 3 papilla (odd ratio 7.44, p= 0.016) were associated with greater SBC failure compared with Type 1 papilla. Malignant obstruction compared to stone (odds ratio 4.45, p=0.014) and age (odd ratio=1.06, p=0.010) were also risk factors for cannulation failure. Type 2 papilla was correlated with a higher rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis (20%, p=0.020) compared to the other types of papilla However, papilla morphology was not a significant risk factor for any complications in the multivariate analysis.Conclusion Small papilla and protruding or pendulous papilla are more difficult to cannulate compared to regular papilla. Small papilla is associated with a higher rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis.
Contact pressure distribution of the hip joint during closed reduction of developmental dysplasia of the hip: A Patient-Specific Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhiqiang , Li Hai , Sui Dashan , Qin Haiyi , Zhang Ziming
Published: August 2020

Background: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is the most common deformity of the lower extremity in children. The biomechanical change during closed reduction (CR) focused on cartilage contact pressure (CCP) has not been studied. Thereby, we try to provide insight into biomechanical factors potentially responsible for the success of CR treatment sand complications by using finite element analysis (FEA) for the first time.Methods: Finite element models of one patient with DDH were established based on the data of MRI scan on which cartilage contact pressure was measured. During CR, CCP between the femoral head and acetabulum in different abduction and flexion angles were tested to estimate the efficacy and potential risk factors of avascular necrosis (AVN) following CR.Results: A 3D reconstruction by the FEA method was performed on a sixteen months of age girl with DDH on the right side. The acetabulum of the involved side showed a long, narrow, and "flat-shaped" deformity, whereas the femoral head was smaller and irregular compared with the contralateral side. With increased abduction angle, the stress of the posterior acetabulum increased significantly, and the stress on the lateral part of the femoral head increased as well. The changes of CCP in the superior acetabulum were not apparent during CR. There were no detectable differences in terms of pressure on the femoral head.Conclusions: Severe dislocation (IHDI grade III and IV) in children showed a high mismatch between the femoral head and acetabulum. Increased abduction angle corresponded with high contact pressure, which might relate to AVN, whereas increased flexion angle was not. Enhanced pressure on the lateral part of the femoral head might increase the risk of AVN.
Correlation Analysis of stem hardness traits with fiber and yield-related traits in core collections of Gossypium hirsutum
Authors: Raza Irum , Hu Dao-Wu , Ahmad Adeel , Li Hongge , He Shou-Pu , Nazir Mian Faisal , Wang Xiao-Yang , Jia Yin-Hua , Pan Zhao-e , Zhang Peng , Yasir Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Geng Xiao-Li , Wang Li-Ru , Pang Bao-Yin , Du Xiongming
Published: August 2020

Background Stem hardness is one of the major influencing factors for plant architecture in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Evaluating hardness phenotypic traits is very important for the selection of elite lines for resistance to lodging in Gossypium hirsutum L. Cotton breeder are interested in using diverse genotypes to enhance fiber quality and high-yield. The research for hardness and its relation with fiber quality and yield were very few. This study was designed to find the relationship of stem hardness traits with fiber quality and yield contributing traits of upland cotton. Results Experiments were carried out to measure the bending, acupuncture, and compression properties of the stem from a collection of upland cotton genotypes, comprising 237 accessions. The results showed that the genotypic difference in stem hardness was highly significant among the genotypes, and the stem hardness traits (BL, BU, AL, AU, CL, and CU) have a positive association with fiber quality traits and yield-related traits. Statistical analyses of the results showed that bending (BL, BU) has a maximum coefficient of variance and trait fiber length and fiber strength have less coefficient of variance among the genotypes. Principal component analysis (PCA) reduced quantitative characters into nine principal components. The first nine principal components (PC) with Eigenvalues >1 explained 86% of the variation among 237 accessions of the cotton crop. Both 2017& 2018, PCA results indicated that BL, BU, FL, FE, and LI variables contributed their variability in PC1 and BU, AU, CU, FD, LP, and FWPB have shown their variability in PC2. Conclusion We describe here, to the best of our knowledge, the systematic study of the mechanism involved in the regulation of enhancing fiber quality and yield by stem bending strength, acupuncture, and compression properties of Gossypium hirsutum crop.
The therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stromal cells on experimental colitis was improved by the IFN-γ and poly(I:C)-priming through promoting the expression of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase.
Authors: Lim Ji-Young , Kim Byung-Su , Ryu Da-Bin , Kim Tae Woo , Park Gyeongsin , Min Chang-Ki
Published: August 2020

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic and excessive inflammation of the colon and small intestine. We previously reported that priming of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) with poly(I:C) induced them to express indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). We tried to find out whether the IFN-γ and poly(I:C)-primed MSCs have better therapeutic efficacy on the experimental colitis in the IDO1-dependent manner. Methods: To compare the therapeutic effects between the naïve MSCs and primed MSCs on murine colitis, mice (C57BL6) were administered with 2.5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in drinking water for 5 days and injected with MSCs intraperitoneally on days 1 and 3 following DSS ingestion. The disease activity index score and body weight loss were assessed daily until day 9. Results: Mice receiving the IFN-γ and poly(I:C)-primed MSCs showed a reduced disease activity index and less weight loss. Colon tissue from the same mice presented attenuated pathological damage, increased Paneth cells, increased IDO1-expressing cells, and better proliferation of enterocytes. The primed MSC treatment upregulated the mRNA expression of intestinal stem cell markers (Lgr5, Olfm4, and Bmi1), enterocyte differentiation markers (Muc2, Alpi, Chga, and occludin), and regulatory T (Treg) cells (Foxp3). The same treatment decreased inflammatory cell infiltration to lymphoid organs and the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP-1) in colon tissue. Notably, in vivo pharmacologic inhibition of the IDO1 activity blocked the Foxp3 up-regulation in colon tissue and diminished the protective effects of the primed MSC. Conclusions: The priming of MSCs with the IFN-γ and poly(I:C) is a promising new strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy of MSC and is worth further research.
Investigating the frequency of Free-living amoeba in water resources with emphasis on Acanthamoeba in Bandar Abbas city, Hormozgan province, Iran in 2019-2020
Authors: Attariani Homa , Turki Habibollah , Shoja Saeed , Salahi-Moghaddam Abdoreza , Ghanbarnejad Amin , Shamseddin Jebreil
Published: August 2020

Objective: These amoebas can cause dangerous illnesses when they accidentally enter the human body, so it is necessary to determine various forms of organisms in water resources to prevent the danger they can cause and risks to human health. Currently, in Bandar Abbas, there is no sufficient information about the distribution of Acanthamoeba, and we intended to study its frequency and determine the related genotypes.

Results: Out of 83 water samples collected from different resources in the city, 31 plates (37.3%) were found to be positive for free-living amoebae. Of these, five were identified as Acanthamoeba (6%) by culture method and 8 (9.6%) by molecular method. Positive sample sequence analysis enabled us to distinguish two genotypes of T4 (7 cases) and T15 (1 case) in this study.
Reflecting on the Challenges encountered by nurses at the great Earthquake in the West of Iran: A qualitative study
Authors: Abdi Alireza , -Raygani Aliakbar Vaisi , Najafi Bahareh , saidi Hamid , Moradi Khalil
Published: August 2020

Background: Iran has experienced an increasing number of earthquake disasters in the past three decades. Nurses are the largest group of healthcare providers that play an important role in responding to disasters. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the nursing challenges to provide cares to the injured in the Kermanshah earthquake, Iran. Methods: The present study was conducted as a qualitative conventional content analysis, and data collection was carried out through 16 semi‑structured and in‑depth interviews with the nurses involved in providing cares to the injured in the Kermanshah earthquake.The data were analyzed following Graneheim and Lundman’s approach. Results: Data analysis led to the emergence of 453 primary codes, 14 subcategories, and 5 categories. The five categories were as follows: (a) organizational and managerial challenges; (b) human resources; (c) infrastructure; (d) educational system; (e) and ethical. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that nurses faced with several challenges in providing care to earthquake victims. Based on these findings, better educational management and planning, infrastructure reform, and establishment of a crisis nursing national team seem absolutely necessary.
The expansion of the TRB and TRG genes in domestic goats (Capra hircus) is characteristic of the ruminant species
Authors: Giannico Francesco , Massari Serafina , Jambrenghi Anna Caputi , Soriano Adriano , Pala Angela , Linguiti Giovanna , Ciccarese Salvatrice , Antonacci Rachele
Published: August 2020

Background: Goats (Capra hircus), one of the first domesticated species, are economically important for milk and meat production, and their broad geographical distribution reflects their successful adaptation to diverse environmental conditions. Despite the relevance of this species, the genetic research on the goat traits is limited compared to other domestic species. Thanks to the latest goat reference genomic sequence (ARS1), which is considered to be one of the most continuous assemblies in livestock, we deduced the genomic structure of the T cell receptor beta (TRB) and gamma (TRG) loci in this ruminant species. Results: Our analyses revealed that although the organization of the goat TRB locus is broadly similar to that of the other artiodactyl species, with three in-tandem D-J-C clusters located at the 3’ end, a complex and extensive series of duplications have occurred in the V genes at the 5’ end, leading to a marked expansion in the number of the TRBV genes. This phenomenon appears to be a feature of the ruminant lineage since similar gene expansions have also occurred in sheep and cattle.Likewise, the general organization of the goat TRG genes is typical of ruminant species studied so far, with two paralogous TRG loci, TRG1 and TRG2, located in two distinct and distant positions on the same chromosome as result of a split in the ancestral locus. Each TRG locus consists of reiterated V-J-J-C cassettes, with the goat TRG2 containing an additional cassette relative to the corresponding sheep and cattle loci.Conclusions: Taken together, these findings demonstrate that strong evolutionary pressures in the ruminant lineage have selected for the development of enlarged sets of TRB and TRG genes that contribute to a diverse T cell receptor repertoire. However, differences observed among the goat, sheep and cattle TRB and TRG genes indicate that distinct evolutionary histories, with independent expansions and/or contractions, have also affected each ruminant species.
Prediction of veristrat test in first-line therapy of pemetrexed based regimen for advanced lung adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Jia Bo , Dong Zhi , Wu Di , Zhao Jun , Wu Meina , An Tongtong , Wang Yuyan , Zhuo Minglei , Li Jianjie , Wang Yang , Zhang Jie , Zhao Xinghui , Li Sheng , Li Junfeng , Ma Menglei , Chen Chen , Yang Xue , Zhong Jia , Chen Hanxiao , Wang Jingjing , Chi Yujia , Zhai Xiaoyu , Cui Song , Zhang Rong , Ma Qingwei , Fang Jian , Wang Ziping
Published: August 2020

Background: Although advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients have significantly better survival outcome on pemetrexed based treatment, a subset of patients still show intrinsic resistance and progress rapidly. Therefore we aim to use a blood-based protein signature (VeriStrat, VS) to analyze whether VS could identify the subset of patients who had poor efficacy on pemetrexed therapy. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed 72 advanced lung adenocarcinoma patients who received first-line pemetrexed/platinum or combined with bevacizumab treatment. Results: Plasma samples from these patients were analyzed using VS and classified as Good (VS-G) or Poor (VS-P) group. The relationship between efficacy and VS status was further investigated. Of 72 patients included in this study, 35 (48.6%) were treated with pemetrexed plus platinum and 37 (51.4%) were treated with pemetrexed/platinum combined with bevacuzumab. Among all patients, 60 (83.3%) and 12 (16.7%) patients were classified as VS-G and VS-P, respectively. VS-G patients had significantly better median progression free survival (PFS) (Unreached vs. 4.2 months; P＜0.001) than VS-P patients. Besides, partial response (PR) rate was higher in VS-G than that in VS-P group (46.7% vs 25.0%, P=0.212). Subgroup analysis showed that PFS was also significantly longer in the VS-G than that in VS-P group no matter for patients received chemotherapy alone or chemotherapy plus bevacizumab.Conclusions: Our study indicates that VS could be considered as a novel and valid method to predicit efficacy of pemetrexed based therapy and identify a subset of advanced lung adenocarcinoma patients who have intrinsic resistance to pemetrexed based regimen.
Combining quantitative analysis with an elliptic Fourier descriptor: A study of pottery from the Gansu-Zhanqi site based on 3D scanning and computer technology
Authors: WANG JIN , Qian wei , Chen guoke
Published: August 2020

Pottery is an important material in archaeological studies, and the accurate classification of pottery shapes largely depends on the experience and knowledge of archaeologists. In this thesis, pottery taken from the Gansu-Zhanqi site is used for sampling. Three-dimensional (3D) models of the pottery were obtained using 3D scanning, and a computer-assisted pottery typology was studied through quantitative analysis and elliptic Fourier descriptor. This method, which can enhance and supplement the traditional methods of classifying pottery in archaeology and thereby enrich the parameters and breadth of pottery analysis, represents a new means for exploring and experimenting with objective classification and provides a new tool for traditional archaeological analysis methods.
Nomogram to identify severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) based on initial clinical and CT characteristics: a multi-center study
Authors: Yu Yixing , Wang Ximing , Li Min , Gu Lan , Xie Zongyu , Gu Wenhao , Xu Feng , Bao Yaxing , Liu Rongrong , Hu Su , Hu Mengjie , Hu Chunhong
Published: August 2020

Background: To develop and validate a nomogram for early identification of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) based on initial clinical and CT characteristics. Methods: The initial clinical and CT imaging data of 217 patients with COVID-19 were analyzed retrospectively from January to March 2020. 217 patients with 146 mild cases and 71 severe cases were randomly divided into training and validation cohorts. Independent risk factors were selected to construct the nomogram for predicting severe COVID-19. Nomogram performance in terms of discrimination and calibration ability was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC), calibration curve, decision curve, clinical impact curve and risk chart.Results: In the training cohort, the severity score of lung in the severe group (7, interquartile range [IQR]:5-9) was significantly higher than that of the mild group (4, IQR:2-5) (P < 0.001). Age, density, mosaic perfusion sign and severity score of lung were independent risk factors for severe COVID-19. The nomogram had a AUC of 0.929 (95% CI, 0.889-0.969), sensitivity of 84.0% and specificity of 86.3%, in the training cohort, and a AUC of 0.936 (95% CI, 0.867-1.000), sensitivity of 90.5% and specificity of 88.6% in the validation cohort. The calibration curve, decision curve, clinical impact curve and risk chart showed that nomogram had high accuracy and superior net benefit in predicting severe COVID-19.Conclusion: The nomogram incorporating initial clinical and CT characteristics may help to identify the severe patients with COVID-19 in the early stage.
Intraventricular synchronism assessment by gated - SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging in cardiac resynchronization therapy. Does cardiomyopathy type influence results?
Authors: Peix Amalia , Padrón Kenia , Cabrera Lázaro O. , Castañeda Osmín , Milán Danet , Castro Jesús , Falcón Roylan , Martínez Frank , Rodríguez Lydia , Sánchez Jesús , Mena Erick , Carrillo Regla , Fernández Yoel , Escarano Ricardo , Páez Diana , Dondi Maurizio
Published: August 2020

Purpose: To analyse the evolution post-cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) cardiomyopathy (CM) patients compared to other types of CM, according to clinical and functional variables, by using gated-SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI).Methods: Ninety-three patients (60 ± 11 years, 28% women) referred for pre-CRT assessment were studied and divided into three groups: 1 (non-ischemic CM with LVNC, 11 patients), 2 (ischemic CM, 28 patients), and 3 (non-ischemic CM, 53 patients). All were studied by a 99mTc-MIBI gated-SPECT MPI at rest pre-CRT implantation, and 6±1 months after, including intraventricular dyssynchrony assessment by phase analysis. Quality of life was measured by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). Results: No differences in sex, atherosclerotic risk factors other than smoking habit, and MLHFQ results were found among groups. LVNC CM patients were younger, with greater QRS width and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at baseline, but the differences were not significant. No significant differences were found at baseline regarding ventricular function, although end-systolic volume was slightly higher in LVNC CM patients. Mean SRS was significantly higher (p<0.0001) in ischemic patients (14.9) vs. non-ischemic ones (8.7 in group 1 and 9 in group 2). At baseline, LVNC CM patients were significantly more dyssynchronous: their phase standard deviation (PSD) was higher (89.5±14.2 degrees) vs. groups 2 (65.2±23.3 degrees) and 3 (69.7±21.7 degrees), p=0.007. Although the quality of life significantly improved in all groups, non-ischemic patients (with or without LVNC) showed a higher LVEF increase and volumes reduction at 6 months post-CRT. Dyssynchrony reduced post-CRT in all groups. Nevertheless, those more dyssynchronous at baseline (LVNC CM) exhibited the most significant intraventricular synchronism improvement: PSD was reduced from 89.5±14.2 degrees at baseline to 63.7±20.5 degrees post-CRT (p=0.028). Six months post-CRT, 89% of patients were responders: 11 (100%) of those with LVNC CM, 25 (86%) of those with ischemic CM, and 47 (89%) of patients with non-ischemic CM. No patient with LVNC CM had adverse events during the follow-up. Conclusion: CRT contributes to a marked improvement in non-ischemic CM patients with non-compaction myocardium. Phase analysis in gated-SPECT MPI is a valuable tool to assess the response to CRT.
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 Yan Lei , Cheng Yan , Ma Xiao , Zhang Zhiyi
Published: August 2020

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. 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. Trial registration (Clinical Trials identifier): Not applicable
Correlation Between 25-Hydroxy-Vitamin D and Parkinson's Disease: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Xia Ming , Xiu Wenjuan , Wang Xuliang , Wu Tingting , Zheng Yingying , Ma Yitong , Xie Xiang , Zhou Qingjiu
Published: August 2020

Background: Previous cross-sectional studies have shown that Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients have lower serum 25- hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations than controls. whether the research in other regions findings are generalizable to China populations remains untested in other studies. In this case-control study we examined the Correlation between 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and Parkinson's disease.Methods: We establish an association between deficiency of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and PD in a case-control study of 100 PD patients and 100 control subjects free of neurologic disease in the First Affliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University.Results: Total 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels, were deficient in 21% of patients with PD compared with 4% of controls. In univariate analyses Plasma levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D were associated with PD(p<0.001), respectively. In multivariate analyses, Vitamin D deficiency(25(OH)D <20 ng/mL) were significant associated with PD (p=0.008,OR=17.13,95% CI, 2.082-141.075). Individuals with levels in the lowest quartile of 25(OH)D values had the highest prevalence of PD(p =0.026,OR=11.786,95%CI,1.342-103.51)compared with individuals with values in the highest quartile.Conclusions: Our study reveals an association between 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and PD.Patients with incident PD had significantly lower serum 25(OH)D concentrations than age-matched controls, High-risk PD patients with vitamin D deficiency who have not yet developed exercise impairment, these populations should undergo vitamin D measurement and vitamin D treatment as soon as possible.
Moderate Degeneration of the Lumbar Paravertebral Muscle in Patients With Dynamic Sagittal Imbalance,A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ru Nan , Wang Guodong , Li Yang , Cui Xingang , Sun Jianmin
Published: August 2020

Study Design: A retrospective cohort study.Background: Sagittal imbalance of the spine is a comprehensive concept and can be caused by many causes. Paravertebral muscle is an important factor in the stabilization of spine.The active subsystem formed by the muscles around the lumbar spine plays an important role in maintaining lumbar spine stability and extendding the spine . Clinically, we found that some patients showed spinal sagittal balance when they were energetic, but hunched or leaning forward after a period of walking or working.Standing full-spine lateral digital radiographs shows increased sagittal vertical axis (SVA)dynamically.We call this symptoms a dynamic sagittal imbalance（DSI. However, the sagittal sequence, paravertebral muscle changes, and the correlation between them in DSI patients have not been clearly explored. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes of spinal-pelvic parameters; paravertebral muscle; and the relationship between the two in DSI patients .Method: The study group comprised 31 patients with DSI and 42 control patients.All subjects underwent radiologic whole spine X-ray examination and lumbar MRI( Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scanning. Spinal-pelvic parameters such as sagittal vertical axis (SVA), thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT) and pelvic incidence (PI) was measured. The cross-sectional areas （CSA）of the erector spinae (ES),multiﬁdus (MF), and vertebral body were measured at L2/L3 and L4/L5. The fat infiltration (FI) and relative cross-sectional area (RCSA)of muscle of these muscles were quantitatively measured though Image J. All subjects were examined for bone mineral density and pulmonary function to test the overall skeletal muscle capacity.Result: Compared with the control group,the DSI group had a smaller lumbar lordosis，more severe fat infiltration and lower Relative functional cross-sectional area(RFCSA) of paravertebral muscle ES(erector spinae)&MF(multifidus). There was no correlation between muscle degeneration and spinal-pelvic parameters in DSI patients.In addition,There were no statistically significant differences in bone mineral density test and pulmonary function test which reflected systemic skeletal muscle capacity of whole body.Conclusion: DSI，along with moderate degeneration of the paravertebral muscles of the lumbar spine.Usually accompanied by a reduction in lumbar lordosis. DSI is regards as the pre-state of PDSI.
The Microbiota Diversity Following Antibiotic Treatment of Clostridium Difficile Infection
Authors: Binyamin Dana , Nitzan Orna , Azrad Maya , Hamo Zohar , Koren Omry , peretz Avi
Published: August 2020

Background: Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a major nosocomial pathogen that infects the human gut and can cause diarrheal disease. A dominant risk factor is antibiotic treatment that disrupts the normal gut microbiota. The aim of the study was to examine the correlation between antibiotic treatment received prior to C. difficile infection (CDI) onset and patient gut microbiota.Methods: Stool samples were collected from patients with CDI, presenting at the Baruch Padeh Medical Center Poriya, Israel. Demographic and clinical information, including previous antibiotic treatments, was collected from patient charts, and CDI severity score was calculated. Bacteria were isolated from stool samples, and gut microbiome was analyzed by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene using the Illumina MiSeq platform and QIIME2.Results: In total, 84 patients with C. difficile infection were enrolled in the study; all had received antibiotics prior to disease onset. Due to comorbidities, 46 patients (55%) had received more than one class of antibiotics. The most common class of antibiotics used was cephalosporins (n=44 cases). The intestinal microbiota of the patients was not uniform. Differences in intestinal microbiome were influenced by the different combinations of antibiotics that the patients had received (p = 0.022)Conclusions: The number of different antibiotics administered has a major impact on the CDI patients gut microbiome, mainly on bacterial richness.
Level of anxiety caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic among dentists in Poland.
Authors: Rusyan Ewa , Mielczarek Agnieszka , Kapała Agnieszka , Adamczyk Kamil , Piec Robert , Piec Barbara Szykuła-
Published: August 2020

Background: The early information on both the speed and high morbidity rate and, above all, mortality, triggered the symptoms of COVID-19-related panic and anxiety. Dentists were listed in the top five professions with the highest risk of transmission of the virus. The paper aimed to assess the level of anxiety among dentists in Poland. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted via an online survey questionnaire. The study used a tool developed by the team of Ahorsu et al. The COVID-19 Fear Scale (FCV-19S) translated into the Polish language. The online questionnaire was completed by 356 dentists. Results: In the studied population of dentists, the perceived level of anxiety associated with COVID -19 should be considered relatively low. Both gender and work experience had no significant impact on their level. When the respondents had children, lived with the elderly, or looked after them the observed level of anxiety was higher and physical symptoms such as sweating palms and increased heart rate occurred.Conclusion: Despite the high risk of infection, the tested low level of anxiety among dentists is a positive predictor of the appropriate level of medical services provided by this group of doctors.