bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation of microdissected DNA probes from metaphase chromosomes when chromosome identification by routine staining is impossible
Authors: Zadesenets K. S. , Rubtsov N. B.
Published: May 2020

Application of microdissected DNA libraries and DNA probes in numerous and various modern molecular cytogenetic studies showed them as an efficient and reliable tool in the analysis of chromosome reorganization during karyotypic evolution and in the diagnosis of human chromosome pathology. An important advantage of DNA probe generation by metaphase chromosome microdissection followed by sequence-independent polymerase chain reaction in comparison with the method of DNA probe generation using chromosome sorting is the possibility of DNA probe preparation from chromosomes of an individual sample without cell line establishment for the production of a large number of metaphase chromosomes. One of the main requirements for successful application of this technique is a possibility for identification of the chromosome of interest during its dissection and collection of its material from metaphase plates spread on the coverslip. In the present study, we developed and applied a technique for generation of microdissected DNA probes in the case when chromosome identification during microdissection appeared to be impossible. The technique was used for generation of two sets of Whole Chromosome Paints (WCPs) from all chromosomes of two species of free-living flatworms in the genus Macrostomum, M. mirumnovem and M. cliftonensis. The single-copy chromosome technique including separate collection of all chromosomes from one metaphase plate allowed us to generate WCPs that painted specifically the original chromosome by Chromosome In Situ Suppression Hybridization (CISS-Hybridization). CISS-Hybridization allowed identifying the original chromosome(s) used for DNA probe generation. Pooled WCPs derived from homologous chromosomes increased the intensity and specificity of chromosome painting provided by CISS-Hybridization. In the result, the obtained DNA probes appeared to be good enough for application in our studies devoted to analysis of karyotypic evolution in the genus Macrostomum and for analysis of chromosome rearrangements among the worms of laboratory cultures of M. mirumnovem.
Development of adversity quotient based geometry learning model for prospective teachers
Authors: Bennu Sudarman , Akina Akina
Published: May 2020

The objective of this research is to develop the adversity quotient-based and media-assisted model of mathematics teaching. The stages follow Plomp Model that involves (1) preliminary study, (2) designing (planning), (3) realization/ construction, (4) test, evaluation and revision, (5) implementation. Stages 1 through 3 were held in 2017, stages 4 and 5 completed in 2018 and 2019. Through the preliminary study, designing, and realization/construction, the researchers were able to construct the model in five components: syntax, social system, reaction principles, supporting system, and instructional and nurturing effect. The syntax of this model covers: introduction of learning objectives, motivating, the presentation of prerequisite material and the discussion structured task, student categorization based on adversity quotient, group discussion, group presentation, concluding the discussion, evaluation, and assigning structured-tasks individually and in groups.
Socio-Demographic Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices Among Nursing Mothers in Enugu State
Authors: C. Ogbe Anthonia , U. Nwankwo Clementina , O. Agbele Theresa , C. Nwambo Joshua
Published: May 2020

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) plays a pivotal role in determining the optimal health and development of infants with reduction in infant mortality. This study focuses on those factors which place nursing mothers in the likelihood of not adopting and practicing EBF. It is a descriptive study that utilized a multi-stage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire, mean and standard deviation were used. The result shows that the EBF practice among nursing mothers is high with a grand mean and standard deviation of 2.75 (0.61). Those with secondary qualification and below had 3.10(0.37) while tertiary had 2.23 (0.41). Mothers aged 25 and below had 3.39 (0.14) and above age 25 had 2.57(0.52).Parity of 1-4 had 2.93 (0.47) while parity of 5 and above had 1.93 (0.34). Married and single mothers had 2.75 (0.61) and 1.26 (0.05) respectively. Effective EBF education is needed to reduce socio-demographic factors that hinder mothers’ practice of EBF.
Functional ARCH and GARCH Models: A Yule-Walker Approach
Authors: Kühnert Sebastian
Published: May 2020

Conditional heteroskedastic financial time series are commonly modelled by ARCH and GARCH. ARCH(1) and GARCH processes were recently extended to the function spaces C[0,1] and L2[0,1], their probabilistic features were studied and their parameters were estimated. The projections of the operators on finite-dimensional subspace were estimated, as were the complete operators in GARCH(1,1). An explicit asymptotic upper bound of the estimation errors was stated in ARCH(1). This article provides sufficient conditions for the existence of strictly stationary solutions, weak dependence and finite moments of ARCH and GARCH processes in various Lp[0,1] spaces, C[0,1] and other spaces. In L2[0,1] we deduce explicit asymptotic upper bounds of the estimation errors for the shift term and the complete operators in ARCH and GARCH and for the projections of the operators on a finite-dimensional subspace in ARCH. The operator estimaton is based on Yule-Walker equations. The estimation of the GARCH operators also involves a result concerning the estimation of the operators in invertible, linear processes which is valid beyond the scope of ARCH and GARCH. Through minor modifications, all results in this article regarding functional ARCH and GARCH can be transferred to functional ARMA.
Feasibility and Applicability of Standardized and Regular Follow-up of Sickle Cell Patients in a Remote Area of a Developing Country
Authors: Mbiya Benoît Mukinayi , Kalombo Didier Kalenda , Mukendi Yannick Nkesu , Daubie Valery , Mpoyi John Kalenda , Biboyi Parola Mukendi , Disashi Ghislain Tumba , Gulbis Béatrice
Published: May 2020

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common hemoglobinopathy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and poses a public health problem. If, without clinical follow-up, more than 50% of children with SCD die before their 5th birthday. A regular medical follow-up is the first simple improvement that can be beneficial for SCD patients in a remote city of an African country. Method: A cohort of 143 children with SCD aged 10 years old (IQR [inter quartile range]: 6–15 years) (sex ratio male: female = 1.3) were clinically followed for 12 months without any specific intervention and then 12 months with a monthly medical visit, a biological follow-up and regular prophylaxis. A paired Student test and pairwise Wilcoxon test were used to compare study outcomes. Results: The median age of patients at the diagnosis of SCD was 2 years (IQR: 1–5). Anemia was noted in 100% of patients at inclusion, with severe and normocytic anemia in 80% of cases (n = 115). The implementation of standardized and regular follow-up has shown an increase in the annual mean hemoglobin level from the percentage of the low limit normal for the age from 54 to 77 % (p = 0.001), and a decrease of the lymphocytes count and spleen size (p < 0.001). The implementation of regular follow-up has also shown a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in the average annual number of hospitalizations and episodes with vaso-occlusive crises, blood transfusions, infections, and acute chest syndromes. Conclusions: This study showed that the regular follow-up of children with SCD and the application of SCD management recommendations are possible and applicable in the context of a remote city in a developing country. Simple and accessible measures included in conventional recommendations can reduce the morbimortality of these patients in remote areas if applied rigorously with regular follow-up.
Impact of COVID-19 on Orthopaedic and Trauma Service
Authors: Wong Janus Siu Him , Cheung Kenneth Man Chee
Published: May 2020

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused substantial disruptions to orthopaedic and trauma services. The purpose of the present study was to quantify its impact on surgical volume, hospitalizations, clinic appointments, and accident and emergency attendances to guide staffing and resource deployment for the sustenance of emergency services.

Methods:

Data were retrieved from all 43 Hong Kong public hospitals and 122 outpatient clinics from a population of 7.5 million residents. The “COVID-19 cohort” of patients who received treatment from January 25 to March 27, 2020, was compared with the “control cohort” of patients who received treatment during the same time of year over the past 4 years. Primary outcomes consisted of changes in patient diagnoses, number of operations performed, and hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary outcomes included differences in patient age and comorbidity, the nature of operations performed, types of anesthesia for orthopaedic procedures, difference in anesthetic times, wait times, and personal protective equipment (PPE) reserves.

Results:

A total of 928,278 patient-episodes (32,613 operations, 97,648 hospital admissions, 302,717 accident and emergency attendances, and 495,300 outpatient clinic attendances) were analyzed. Orthopaedic operations were reduced by 44.2%, from a mean (and standard deviation) of 795 ± 115.1 to 443.6 ± 25.8 per week (p < 0.001), with the ratio of emergency to elective operations increasing from 1.27:1 to 3.78:1. Operations for the treatment of upper and lower-limb fractures decreased by 23% (from 98.5 ± 14 to 75.9 ± 15.2 per week; p < 0.001) and 20% (from 210.6 ± 29.5 to 168.4 ± 16.9 per week; p < 0.001), respectively, whereas elective joint replacement and ligamentous reconstruction procedures decreased by 74% to 84% (p < 0.001). Operations for orthopaedic infections such as necrotizing fasciitis and septic arthritis remained similar (p > 0.05). The number of hospitalizations decreased by 41.2% (from 2,365 ± 243 to 1,391 ± 53 per week; p < 0.001), whereas clinical outpatient visits decreased by 29.4% (from 11,693 ± 2,240 to 8,261 ± 1,104 per week; p < 0.001). Patients did not endure longer wait times for emergency operations and accident and emergency consultations (p > 0.05). PPE consumption did not exceed procurement, with net increases in PPE reserves.

Conclusions:

Demand for orthopaedic care remains, despite weekly reductions of 351 orthopaedic operations, 974 hospital admissions, and 3,432 clinic attendances. Orthopaedic surgeons and health-care professionals should factor this into consideration during staffing and resource deployment.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Musculoskeletal Consequences of COVID-19
Authors: Disser Nathaniel P. , De Micheli Andrea J. , Schonk Martin M. , Konnaris Maxwell A. , Piacentini Alexander N. , Edon Daniel L. , Toresdahl Brett G. , Rodeo Scott A. , Casey Ellen K. , Mendias Christopher L.
Published: May 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging pandemic disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Although the majority of patients who become infected with SARS-CoV-2 are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, some patients develop severe symptoms that can permanently detract from their quality of life. SARS-CoV-2 is closely related to SARS-CoV-1, which causes severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Both viruses infect the respiratory system, and there are direct and indirect effects of this infection on multiple organ systems, including the musculoskeletal system. Epidemiological data from the SARS pandemic of 2002 to 2004 identified myalgias, muscle dysfunction, osteoporosis, and osteonecrosis as common sequelae in patients with moderate and severe forms of this disease. Early studies have indicated that there is also considerable musculoskeletal dysfunction in some patients with COVID-19, although long-term follow-up studies have not yet been conducted. The purpose of this article was to summarize the known musculoskeletal pathologies in patients with SARS or COVID-19 and to combine this with computational modeling and biochemical signaling studies to predict musculoskeletal cellular targets and long-term consequences of the SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrycte Implantation for a Glenoid Chondral Defect
Authors: Steinmetz Garrett , Hamilton John , Fernandes Carl , Bond James
Published: May 2020

Case:

We describe the case of a 33-year-old man who had a 1.5 × 2 cm chondral defect of the right glenoid that that was discovered on arthroscopy and was successfully treated with matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI). At 2 years postoperatively, the patient's Constant score and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score improved by 44 and 51.6 points, respectively.

Conclusion:

Chondral lesions of the glenoid are rare and are a challenge to manage. This case represents a successful outcome with MACI, thus providing surgeons with an option for treating these difficult problems.
Antibiotic-Impregnated Intramedullary Cement Nail-Induced Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis and Septic Shock
Authors: Mitchell Brendon , Girard Paul J. , Kent William T.
Published: May 2020

Case:

A 28-year-old woman with an infected proximal femur nonunion was treated with an antibiotic-coated intramedullary nail. Shortly after discharge, the patient presented to the emergency department and was readmitted with a morbilliform rash sparing the left lower extremity. She became hemodynamically unstable, despite cessation of intravenous antibiotics, requiring transfer to the intensive care unit and urgent removal of her antibiotic nail. She improved after surgery, and biopsy results from the rash confirmed acute generalized examthematous pustulosis.

Conclusion:

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis is a rare, dermatologic crisis that can be precipitated by antibiotics, even in the form of antibiotic cement.
Numeracy Programming at Major Canadian Urban Libraries: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Budac Andrea , Gareau-Brennan Céline , Mucz David , McNally Michael , Rathi Dinesh
Published: May 2020

The Government of Canada identifies numeracy as a foundational skill for work, learning, and life. Libraries have historically been champions of literacy; however, the role of libraries in developing numeracy skills is understudied. Specifically, there is a critical gap in studying numeracy programs offered by public libraries. This exploratory study examines the state of numeracy programming at five major urban public libraries in Canada (Calgary Public Library, Edmonton Public Library, Bibliothèques de Montréal, Ottawa Public Library, and Toronto Public Library) to understand the types and varieties of numeracy programs that they offer. The frequency of programs, the intended age range, and the program content are the main foci of this paper. The researchers examined 1166 program listings by scraping programming information from the five libraries’ websites. The data was collected for the second week of December 2015 and relied on programming descriptions from libraries' websites. Results showed that a total of 65 programs (5.6% of total programs) covered numeracy related skills. Overall, the options to learn about numeracy concepts were very limited at all of the libraries in the sample. Calgary offered the highest number of children-focused numeracy programs, while Toronto offered the greatest number of adult-focused numeracy programs. “Math/mathematics” was the most common term used to describe numeracy-related programs. This exploratory study underscores the need for greater investigation of numeracy programming in public libraries.
Technical Revisions Reveal Overconfidence in US and Canadian Reserves Estimates
Authors: Gomez Diana , McVay Duane , Lee John
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we present methodology to quantify biases in reserves estimates using technical revisions (TRs) listed in reserves-reconciliation reports filed with regulators in the US and Canada. Using this methodology, we assessed the reliability of reserves estimates for 34 companies filing in Canada and 32 companies filing in the US from 2007 to 2017.

Filers in both Canada and the US overestimated proved (1P) reserves, and US filers overestimated 1P reserves (51% positive TRs instead of 90%) more often than Canadian filers (72% positive TRs). Canadian filers underestimated proved-plus-probable (2P) reserves slightly (54% positive TRs instead of 50%). Considering the entire reserves distribution, Canadian filers were moderately overconfident (underestimated uncertainty) and slightly pessimistic. US filers, who report only 1P, were somewhere between the combination of extreme overconfidence and neutral directional bias (DB) and the combination of moderate overconfidence and extreme optimism.

Three groups of professionals can benefit from this study: estimators, who can use the methodology to track their TRs over time, calibrate them, and use this information to improve future estimation procedures; investors, who can analyze reported reserves estimates to compare volumes fairly; and regulators, to whom the paper provides quantitative methodology to suggest to filers to help them ensure compliance with appropriate criteria for 1P and 2P reserves and avoid significant reserves write-downs later.
Three-Dimensional Modeling of Mineral/Elemental Compositions for Shale Reservoirs
Authors: Ma Y. Z.
Published: May 2020

Mineral compositional analysis of rocks is important for developing shale resources because the relationships between mineral compositions and petrophysical properties are critical for resource evaluation and completion optimization. Elementary properties are now routinely analyzed at wells in evaluating shale reservoirs. However, these properties have not been modeled in the three-dimensional (3D) reservoir. This is because an elemental composition has a physical constraint that is relatively easily adhered to in data analysis for wells but not in 3D modeling of reservoirs. A critical condition of elemental composition is that the sum of its components is equal to 100% to honor the mass-preservation principle. Traditional modeling methods do not satisfy this physical condition, sometimes producing nonphysical values, such as negative porosity values and fluid-saturation values greater than 100%. To date, only the compositional-modeling methods using a log-ratio transform can consistently satisfy this physical constraint. This paper presents modeling methods using additive log-ratio transform for modeling mineral compositions.
Unsafe child feces disposal status in Ethiopia: what factors matter? analysis of pooled data from four demographic and health surveys
Authors: Sahiledengle Biniyam
Published: May 2020

Background: The only safest way to dispose of a child’s feces is to help the child use a toilet or, for very young children, to put or rinse their feces into a toilet; whereas all other disposals are considered unsafe (feces put/rinsed into a drain or ditch, bush or thrown into the garbage, buried or left on the ground, and not disposed of). The study aims to determine the magnitude and factors associated with unsafe child feces disposal in Ethiopia.Methods: The study is cross-sectional in nature and based on the pooled data from the four rounds of Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in Ethiopia (2000-16). Data on child feces disposal practice was collected for all children born during the five years preceding survey. To get detail about the disposal of children’s feces, mothers of under-five children were asked, “The last time passed stools, what was done to dispose of the stools?” with respect to the youngest child born. Descriptive statistics were computed to illustrate the given data. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with unsafe child feces disposal. Results: The pooled dataset contains data for 40,520 children younger than 5 years, male accounts 20,629 (50.9%). Overall, 77.7% (95%CI: 76.3-79.0) of children feces disposed of unsafely. In the multivariable logistic regression model, those mothers whose child was 13-24 months [AOR: 0.68, 95% CI: (0.60-0.78)] and ≥ 25 months [AOR: 0.66, 95% CI: (0.60-0.72)] were lower odds of unsafe child’s feces disposal. Children born into households having two or fewer children were 33% lower [AOR: 0.67, 95% CI: (0.56-0.79)] odds of unsafe child’s feces disposal than their counterparts. The odds of disposing of feces unsafely among households having improved toilet facility was 76% lower [AOR: 0.24, 95% CI: (0.19-0.29)] that of households lacking such facilities. Further, being an urban resident, having improved drinking water facility, a high level of maternal and paternal education, paternal occupational status (work in non-agriculture), and maternal age (25-34 and ≥ 35 years) were factors associated with lower odds of unsafe child's feces disposal.Conclusions: Three in four Ethiopian children feces disposed of unsafely. Household and socio-demographic factors, such as access to improved water and toilet facility, area of a resident (urban), the child’s age (older age), and both higher maternal and paternal education levels were significantly associated with lower odds of unsafe child feces disposal.
Ethnomedicinal knowledge of a marginal hill community of Central Himalaya: Diversity, usage pattern and conservation concerns
Authors: Ojha S. N. , Tiwari Deepti , Anand Aryan , Sundriyal R.C.
Published: May 2020

Background

Indigenous communities use wild plants to cure human ailments since ancient times, such knowledge has significant potential for formulating new drugs and administering future health care. Considering this the present study was undertaken to assess use value, diversity, and conservation concerns of medicinal plants used in traditional herbal care system of a marginal hill community in Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand in the Central Himalayan region of India.

Methodology

Extensive surveys were made in 73 villages to gather information on ethnomedicinal use of plant species used in traditional herbal healing system. A total of 100 respondents were identified (30 herbal healers called ‘ Vaidyas’ and 70 non-healers/natives) and interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires, target interviews and group discussion. Some important indices such as the use value index (UV), relative frequency citation (RFC), cultural importance index (CI), and informant consensus factor (F ic ) were calculated for the medicinal plants included in the present study.

Result

It was recorded that the community use a total of 70 species with 64 genera and 35 families for curing various ailments. Family Lamiaceae recorded maximum number of medicinal plants. 21 species used most extensively in traditional health care system. The major parts of the identified plants used for treatment of various ailments were root/rhizome and leaf. The most common methods used for preparation of these plants were decoction and infusion. Ocimum basilicum L., Cannabis sativa L., Citrus aurantifolia (Christm) Sw., Curcuma longa L.and Setaria italic L. had the highest rate of use report. RFC value ranged between 0.03 to 0.91 with highest values for Setaria italica, Zingiber officinale, Ocimum basilicum, and Rephanus sativus . The traditional knowledge is passed verbally to generations and needs to be preserved for the future bio-prospecting of plants that could be a potential cure to any future disease.

Conclusion

In recent years the community has access to modern hospitals and medicinal facilities, although a considerable number still prefer medicinal plants for curing select ailments. It is suggested that these ethnomedicial species need to be screened and evaluated further for their effectiveness for pharmacological activity. Also, significant efforts are required to conserve traditional knowledge and natural habitats of wild medicinal plants.
Health inequity in workers of Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Silva-Peñaherrera Michael , Lopez-Ruiz María , Merino-Salazar Pamela , Gómez-García Antonio Ramón , Benavides Fernando G.
Published: May 2020

Background: Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is the world’s most inequitable region in terms of wealth distribution. The full scale of social inequalities in health has been hidden by the lack of reliable data. This study aimed to measure and compare health inequalities in the working population within and between 15 countries of LAC. Methods: A sample of 180 163 workers aged 18 years and older was drawn from the most recent national surveys of working conditions or health in 15 LAC countries. Poor self-perceived health (P-SPH) was used as a health indicator, and age, education level, and occupational category as inequality stratifiers. We calculated four measures: absolute and relative population-attributable risks, the Kuznets and weighted Keppel indexes.Results: P-SPH prevalence ranged from 9% in men from Uruguay to 50% in women from Nicaragua. It was higher in women than in men in most countries. A clear gradient was shown, in which young people in non-manual skilled jobs and high education had the lowest prevalence. Nearly 45% of cases that reported P-SPH among men and 35% among women could be avoided if all the groups received a higher level of education. Also, approximately 42% of P-SPH reported by men and 31% by women could be avoided if they all shared the working and employment conditions of non-manual skilled jobs. Conclusions: Wide health inequalities were found between occupational and educational groups in LAC. However, country borders appear to be an even more important stratifier in the production of health inequalities. Urgent interventions to improve worker’s health are needed in countries where prevalence of poor self-perceived health is high. Strengthening occupational health surveillance system in LAC countries should become a priority, in order to track the interventions to reduce occupational health inequity.
The “PPI Hawker”: An innovative method for Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in health research
Authors: Puerta Lidia Luna , Smith Helen E.
Published: May 2020

Background: Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in health research entails doing research ‘with’ the public. Successful PPI requires a diversity of patients’ perspectives and experiences. In Singapore, including the public’s voice in research is still in its infancy and different ways of involving the public have to be explored. Our aims were to describe a PPI initiative that enables members of the public to share their ideas and opinions about health research, and to assess the feasibility, accessibility and utility of the initiative. Methods: Building on the concept of the PPI Café used in the west we designed a “PPI Hawker” for Singapore. Here Hawker Centres rather than cafes are used frequently for eating and socialising, providing a one-stop destination for a wide section of society. The PPI facilitators approached people sitting at tables and joined them to discuss questions of relevance to a local research study. Observations and reflexive field notes were used to evaluate the “PPI Hawker’s” feasibility, acceptability and utility in the Singaporean community. Results: In three “PPI Hawkers” we approached 96 people and 72 (75%) engaged in discussions about the design of a population-based research study. The majority (75%) of participants willingly discussed all of the questions posed to them by the researchers, indicating the feasibility of PPI. The PPI participants came from the three major ethnic groups in Singapore and appeared to be broad in age, suggesting “PPI Hawkers” are easily accessible. Both participants and researchers recognised the utility of the “PPI Hawker”, reflecting on people’s willingness to talk about the research issues, engaging in informative conversations and posing relevant questions. Conclusion: The “PPI Hawkers” succeeded in engaging the public in conversations about a local population-based study. The public brought to the researchers’ attention a variety of previously unheard perspectives about the research. Each event fostered connectivity between professionals and the public, generating among researchers a more positive perception of the power of public involvement. “PPI Hawkers” provide an opportunity for co-informed conduct of research studies with diverse members of the public. They create a focus within a community setting for researchers to engage with the public. The resources needed (costs and preparatory time) are relatively few. Not only do “PPI Hawkers” have potential in Singapore, but also for the rest of Asia.
Identifying genetic variants and pathways associated with extreme levels of fetal hemoglobin in Sickle Cell Disease in Tanzania.
Authors: Nkya Siana , Mwita Liberata , Mgaya Josephine , Kumburu Happiness , Zwetselaar Marco van , Menzel Stephan , Mazandu Gaston Kuzamunu , Sangeda Raphael Z. , Chimusa Emile R. , Makani Julie
Published: May 2020

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a blood disorder caused by a point mutation on the beta globin gene resulting in the synthesis of abnormal hemoglobin. Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) reduces disease severity, but the levels vary from one individual to another. Most research has focused on common variants which differ across populations and hence do not fully account for HbF variation. Methods: We investigated rare and common genetic variants that influence HbF levels in 14 SCD patients to elucidate variants and pathways in SCD patients with extreme HbF levels (≥7.7% for high HbF) and (≤2.5% for low HbF) in Tanzania. We performed targeted next generation sequencing (Illumina_Miseq) covering exonic and other significant fetal hemoglobin-associated loci, including BCL11A, MYB, HOXA9, HBB, HBG1, HBG2, CHD4, KLF1, MBD3, ZBTB7A and PGLYRP1.Results: Results revealed a range of genetic variants, including bi-allelic and multi-allelic SNPs, frameshift insertions and deletions, some of which have functional importance. Notably, there were significantly more deletions in individuals with high HbF levels (11% vs 0.9%). We identified deletions with high HbF levels and frameshift insertions in individuals with low HbF. CHD4 and MBD3 genes, interacting in the same sub-network, were identified to have a significant number of pathogenic or non-synonymous mutations in individuals with low HbF levels, suggesting an important role of epigenetic pathways in the regulation of HbF synthesis. Conclusions: This study provides new insights in selecting essential variants and identifying potential biological pathways associated with extreme HbF levels in SCD using multiple genomic variants associated with HbF in SCD.
Study on the Color-Compensation Effect of Composite Orange-Red Quantum Dots in WLED Application
Authors: Hu Xiaoyue , Xie Yangyang , Geng Chong , Xu Shu , Bi Wengang
Published: May 2020

Quantum dots (QDs) as emerging light-converting materials show the advantage of enhancing color quality of white light-emitting diode (WLED). However, WLEDs employing narrow-emitting monochromic QDs usually present unsatisfactory color rendering in the orange region. Herein, composite orange-red QDs (composite-QDs) are developed through mixing CdSe/ZnS based orange QDs (O-QDs) and red QDs (R-QDs) to compensate the orange-red light for WLEDs. We investigated the effect of self-absorption and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) process in composite-QDs on the spectral controllability and fluorescent quenching in WLEDs. The concentration and donor/acceptor ratios were also taken into account to analyze the FRET efficiency and help identify suitable composite-QDs for color compensation in the orange-red light region. As the result, the optimized composite-QDs effectively improve the color rendering index of the WLED compared with monochromatic QDs.
Best practice guidelines for management of spinal disorders in skeletal dysplasia
Authors: White Klane , Bober Michael B , Cho Tae-Joon , Goldberg Michael J , Hoover-Fong Julie , Irving Melita , Kamps Shawn , Mackenzie William G , Raggio Cathleen , Spencer Samantha S , Bompadre Viviana , Savarirayan Ravi
Published: May 2020

Background: Disorders of the spine present a common and difficult management concern in patients with skeletal dysplasia. Due to the rarity of these conditions however, the literature, largely consisting of small, single institution case series, is sparse in regard to well-designed studies to support clinical decision making in these situations. Methods: Using the Delphi method, an international, multi-disciplinary group of individuals, with significant experience in the care of patients with skeletal dysplasia, convened to develop multi-disciplinary, “best practice” guidelines in the care of spinal disorders in patients with skeletal dysplasia. Results: Starting with 33 statements, the group a developed a list of 31 “best practice” guidelines. Conclusions: The guidelines are presented and discussed to provide context for clinicians in their decision making in this often-challenging realm of care.
Informing the Development of an E-Platform for Monitoring Wellbeing in Schools: Involving Young People in a Co-Design Process.
Authors: Grant Claire , Widnall Emily , Cross Lauren , Simonoff Emily , Downs Johnny
Published: May 2020

Background: The use of new technologies and methodologies in young people’s mental health research is needed to allow more frequent and reliable sampling. Mobile applications and e-platforms create exciting potential for the collection of large-scale cohort data, however there are various feasibility and ethical issues to consider. Consultation with young people is needed to inform the research agenda, and ensure these technologies are engaging, useful and safe. This article describes the process of Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) with a sample of young people in London, with the aim of i) informing the development of a mood-monitoring e-platform, and ii) providing feedback and advice for researchers developing web-based technologies in the mental health field. Methods: A total of 26 young people were consulted across four advisory group co-design sessions. All young people were students enrolled at one of the participating London based sixth form colleges, and voluntarily attended a workshop session. Audio recordings of the sessions were analysed using a thematic analysis framework. Results: Young people were generally receptive to e-health technologies and valued the opportunity to collaborate throughout the development process. The advisory groups identified key considerations for future web-development work to encourage engagement and prolonged use, including, the promotion of trust and transparency, consideration of accessibility, provision of support, production of engaging and functional design, and acknowledgment of specific contextual influences surrounding young people’s wellbeing. Conclusions: Involving young people in the development process of e-health technologies contributes to optimising the successful adoption and prolonged usage of new methodologies. The thematic map and informant examples can be used to guide researchers interested in developing web-based technologies in the mental health field and will be directly applicable to the development of a mood-monitoring e-platform.
Characterization of exosome-like vesicles derived from Cysticercus pisiformis and their immunoregulatory role on macrophages
Authors: Wang Li-Qun , Liu Ting-Li , Liang Pan-Hong , Zhang Shao-Hua , Li Tao-Shan , Li Yan-Ping , Liu Guang-Xue , Mao Li , Luo Xue-Nong
Published: May 2020

Background: Taenia pisiformis is one of the most common intestinal parasites in canines, and leads to serious economic losses in the rabbit breeding industry. Exosome-like vesicles from parasites play crucial roles in host-parasite interactions by transferring cargo from parasites to host cells and by modulating host immunological response through inducing production of host-derived cytokines. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which exosome-like vesicles from Cysticercus pisiformis regulate macrophage immune response remains unknown. Methods: Using ultracentrifugation, we isolated exosome-like vesicles from excretory/secretory products (ESP) of C. pisiformis. The morphology and size of purified vesicles were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). The components of proteins and miRNA within these vesicles were identified by proteomic analysis and high-throughput small RNA sequencing. The biological function of targets of exosomal miRNAs was predicted by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. Moreover, the expression of Th1- and Th2-type immune response associated cytokines in RAW264.7 macrophages were evaluated by qRT-PCR and ELISA. We found that exosome-like vesicles were typical cup-shaped vesicles with diameters from 30 to 150 nm. A total of 87 proteins were identified by proteomic analysis, including proteins prominently associated with exosome-like vesicles biogenesis and vesicle trafficking. 41 known miRNAs and 18 novel miRNAs were identified in the exosome-like vesicles. 11 selected miRNAs, including 7 known miRNAs (miR-71-5p, miR-10a-5p, miR-let-7-5p, miR-745-3p, miR-219-5p, miR-124-3p, and miR-4989-3p) and 4 novel miRNAs (novel-mir-3, novel-mir-7, novel-mir-8, and novel-mir-11) were validated to exist in metacestiodes and exosome-like vesicles of C. pisiformis by qRT-PCR. The functions of most targets of exosomal miRNAs were mainly associated with signal transduction and the immune system. Additionally, C. pisiformis-derived vesicles induced the production of IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13 and Arg-1, but downregulated the expression of IL-12, IFN-γ and iNOS in RAW264.7 macrophages.Conclusions: We demonstrated that proteins and miRNAs enclosed within exosome-like vesicles from C. pisiformis have immunomodulatory functions. Furthermore, exosome-like vesicles were shown to induce the macrophage Th2-type immune response in vitro. Our study suggests that exosome-like vesicles play an important role in the interaction between cysticerci and their hosts.
Short-term Outcomes of Modified Y-Graft Technique in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Using the Femoral Artery Bypass and One Minute Systemic Circulatory Arrest Technique
Authors: Sun Xiangfei , Zhao Qi , Huo Yufeng , Zhou Jinfeng , Zhao Fen , Liu Yimin , Du Yonghai , He Songxiong , Liu Chao , Jiang Detian , Sun Wenyu
Published: May 2020

Objective: Aortic arch replacement in acute type A aortic dissection patients remains the most challenging cardiovascular operation. Herein, we described our modified Y-graft technique using the Femoral Artery Bypass (FAB) and the One Minute Systemic Circulatory Arrest (OSCA) technique, and assessed the short-term outcomes of the patients.Methods: Between February 2015 and November 2017, 51 patients with acute type A aortic dissection underwent aortic arch replacement. Among them, 23 patients underwent FAB while 28 patients underwent both FAB and OSCA. The intraoperative data and postoperative follow-up data were recorded. The follow-up data of patients with traditional Y-graft technique were collected from previously reported studies.Results: In the FAB group, two patients died due to pulmonary infection (30-day survival rate, 91.3%), and two patients were paralyzed from the waist down. Hemodialysis was performed for five patients (21.7%) before hospital discharge. Fifteen patients (65.2%) received respiratory support for more than 2-days and eight patients (34.8%) for more than 5-days. These follow-up results were comparable or better than the patients with traditional Y-graft technique. Furthermore, compared to the FAB group, the morbidity due to neurological dysfunction and acute renal failure was significantly reduced in the FAB+OSCA group. Moreover, the respiratory support, length of postoperative stay and ICU stay were shortened.Conclusions: This study clarified the feasibility of FAB and OSCA technique in modifying Y-graft technique. The acute type A aortic dissection patients showed less surgical complications and favorable short-term outcomes after this surgery.
Dose-response association of sleep quality with anxiety symptoms in Chinese rural population: the Henan Rural Cohort
Authors: Shen Jiali , Zhang Haiqing , Wang Yan , Abdulai Tanko , Niu Miaomiao , Luo Zhicheng , Wang Yikang , Li Ruiying , Wang Fang , Wang Chongjian , Zhenxing Mao
Published: May 2020

Objectives The epidemiological evidence on the effect of sleep quality on anxiety symptoms has been inconclusive. This study aimed at exploring the relationship between sleep quality and anxiety symptoms in rural China and investigated whether age, lifestyle and chronic diseases modified the association. Methods A total of 27,911 participants aged 18–79 years from the Henan Rural Cohort Study were included in the study. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Poor sleep quality was defined as PSQI ≥6. Anxiety symptoms were evaluated with the two-item generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-2). A score ≥6 was view as having anxiety symptoms. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline was conducted to examine the association of sleep quality with anxiety symptoms. Results Altogether, 6,087(21.80%) were poor sleepers and 1,557(5.58%) had anxiety symptoms. The odds of anxiety were increased with increment of PSQI score after fitting restricted cubic splines. And the poor sleep qualitywas associated with a higher possibility of anxiety symptoms (4.60, 3.70-5.72) in men, and (3.56, 3.10-4.09) in women on multivariable analysis. Further stratified analyses showed that the effect of sleep quality and anxiety symptoms could be modified by age, marital status, smoking status, drinking status, hypertension andtype 2 diabetes mellitus. Conclusions A dose-response association between PSQI score and anxiety symptoms was found. In addition, relationship between poor sleep quality and anxiety symptoms was observed in this rural population, especially in participants aged ≥60 years and those with unhealthy habits or had a chronic disease.
A mixed methods approach to exploring the moderating factors of implementation fidelity of the integrated chronic disease management model in South Africa
Authors: Lebina Limakatso , Oni Tolu , Alaba Olufunke A. , Kawonga Mary
Published: May 2020

Background: Chronic care models like the Integrated Chronic Disease Management (ICDM) model strive to improve the efficiency and quality of care for patients with chronic diseases. However, there is a dearth of studies assessing the moderating factors of fidelity during the implementation of the ICDM model. The aim of this study is to assess moderating factors of implementation fidelity of the ICDM model. Methods: This was a cross-sectional mixed method study conducted in two health districts in South Africa. The process evaluation and implementation fidelity frameworks were used to guide the assessment of moderating factors influencing implementation fidelity of the ICDM model. We interviewed 30 purposively selected healthcare workers from four facilities (15 from each of the two facilities with lower and higher levels of implementation fidelity of the ICDM model). Data on facility characteristics were collected by observation and interviews. Linear regression and descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data while qualitative data were analysed thematically.Results: The median age of participants was 36.5 (IQR: 30.8-45.5), and they had been in their roles for a median of 4.0 (IQR: 1.0 – 7.3) years. The moderating factors of implementation fidelity of the ICDM model were the existence of facilitation strategies (training and clinical mentorship); intervention complexity (healthcare worker, time and space integration); and participant responsiveness (observing operational efficiencies, compliance of patients and staff attitudes). One feature of the ICDM model that seemingly compromised fidelity was the inclusion of tuberculosis patients in the same stream (waiting areas, consultation rooms) as other patients with non-communicable diseases and those with HIV/AIDS with no clear infection control guidelines. Participants also suggested that poor adherence to any one component of the ICDM model affected the implementation of the other components. Contextual factors that affected fidelity included supply chain management, infrastructure and adequate staff, and balanced patient caseloads.Conclusion: There are multiple (context, participant responsiveness, intervention complexity and facilitation strategies) interrelated moderating factors influencing implementation fidelity of the ICDM model. Augmenting facilitation strategies (training and clinical mentorship) could further improve the degree of fidelity during the implementation of the ICDM model.
Compositional and functional characterisation of biomass-degrading microbial communities in guts of plant fibre- and soil-feeding higher termites
Authors: Marynowska Martyna , Goux Xavier , Sillam-Dusses David , Rouland-Lefevre Corinne , Halder Rashi , Wilmes Paul , Gawron Piotr , Roisin Yves , Delfosse Philippe , Calusinska Magdalena
Published: May 2020

Background: Termites are among the most successful insect lineages on the globe and are responsible for providing numerous ecosystem services. They mainly feed on wood and other plant material at different stages of humification. Lignocellulose is often a principal component of such plant diet and termites largely rely on their symbiotic microbiota and associated enzymes to decompose their food efficiently. While lower termites and their gut flagellates were given larger scientific attention in the past, the gut lignocellulolytic bacteria of higher termites remain less explored. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the structure and function of gut prokaryotic microbiomes from 11 higher termite genera representative of Syntermitinae, Apicotermitinae, Termitidae and Nasutitermitinae subfamilies, broadly grouped into plant fibre- and soil-feeding termite categories. Results: Despite the different compositional structures of the studied termite gut microbiomes, reflecting well the diet and host lineage, we observed a surprisingly high functional congruency between gut metatranscriptomes from both feeding groups. The abundance of transcripts encoding for carbohydrate active enzymes as well as expression and diversity profiles of assigned glycoside hydrolase families were also similar between plant fibre- and soil-feeding termites. Yet, dietary imprints highlighted subtle metabolic differences specific to each feeding category. Roughly 0.18 % of de novo re-constructed gene transcripts were shared between the different termite gut microbiomes, making each termite gut a unique reservoir of genes encoding for potentially industrially applicable enzymes, e.g. relevant to biomass degradation. Taken together, we demonstrated the functional equivalence in microbial populations across different termite hosts.Conclusions: Our results provide valuable insight into the bacterial component of the termite gut system and significantly expand the inventory of termite prokaryotic genes participating in the deconstruction of plant biomass.