bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization Strategy of Wireless Charger Node Deployment Based on Improved Cuckoo Search Algorithm
Authors: Wang Yang , wang feifan , Zhu Yujun , Liu Yiyang , Zhao Chuanxin
Published: August 2020

In wireless rechargeable sensor network, the deployment of charger node directly affects the overall charging utility of sensor network. Aiming at this problem, this paper abstracts the charger deployment problem as a multi-objective optimization problem that maximizes the received power of sensor nodes and minimizes the number of charger nodes. First, a network model that maximizes the sensor node received power and minimizes the number of charger nodes is constructed. Second, an Improved Cuckoo Search (ICS) algorithm is proposed. This algorithm is based on the traditional Cuckoo Search algorithm (CS) to redefine its step factor, and then use the mutation factor to change the nesting position of the host bird to update the bird ’s nest position, and then use ICS to find the ones that maximize the received power of the sensor node and minimize the number of charger nodes optimal solution. Compared with the traditional cuckoo search algorithm and multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm, the simulation results show that the algorithm can effectively increase the receiving power of sensor nodes, reduce the number of charger nodes and find the optimal solution to meet the conditions, so as to maximize the network charging utility.
Comparative evaluation of two commercial real-time PCR kits (QuantiFast™ and abTES™) for the detection of Plasmodium knowlesi and other Plasmodium species in Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Nuin Nor Afizah , Tan Angelica Fiona , Lew Yao Long , Piera Kim A , William Timothy , Rajahram Giri Shan , Jelip Jenarun , Dony Jiloris F , Mohammad Rashidah , Cooper Daniel J , Barber Bridget E , Anstey Nicholas M , Chua Tock H , Grigg Matthew J
Published: August 2020

Introduction: The monkey parasite Plasmodium knowlesi is an emerging public health issue in Southeast Asia. In Sabah, Malaysia, P. knowlesi is now the dominant cause of human malaria. Molecular detection methods for P. knowlesi are essential for accurate diagnosis and in monitoring progress towards malaria elimination of other Plasmodium species. However, recent commercially available PCR malaria kits have unpublished P. knowlesi gene targets or have not been evaluated against clinical samples. Methods: Two real-time PCR methods currently used in Sabah for confirmatory malaria diagnosis and surveillance reporting were evaluated: the QuantiFast™ Multiplex PCR kit (Qiagen, Germany) targeting the P. knowlesi 18S SSU rRNA; and the abTES™ Malaria 5 qPCR II kit (AITbiotech, Singapore), with an undisclosed P. knowlesi gene target. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated using 52 P. knowlesi, 25 P. vivax, 21 P. falciparum, and 10 P. malariae clinical isolates, and 26 malaria negative controls, and compared against a validated reference nested PCR assay. The limit of detection (LOD) for each PCR method and Plasmodium species was also evaluated. Results: The sensitivity of the QuantiFast™ and abTES™ assays for detecting P. knowlesi was comparable at 98.1% (95%CI 89.7-100) and 100% (95%CI 93.2-100) respectively. Specificity of the QuantiFast™ and abTES™ for P. knowlesi was high at 98.8% (95%CI 93.4-100) for both assays. The QuantiFast™ assay demonstrated falsely-positive mixed Plasmodium species at low parasitaemias in both the primary and LOD analysis. Diagnostic accuracy of both PCR kits for detecting P. vivax, P. falciparum, and P. malariae was comparable to P. knowlesi. The abTES™ assay demonstrated a lower LOD for P. knowlesi of ≤0.125 parasites/µL compared to QuantiFast™ with a LOD of 20 parasites/µL. Hospital microscopy demonstrated a sensitivity of 78.8% (95%CI 65.3-88.9) and specificity of 80.4% (95%CI 67.6-89.8) compared to reference PCR for detecting P. knowlesi. Conclusion: The QuantiFast™ and abTES™ commercial PCR kits performed well for the accurate detection of P. knowlesi infections. Although the QuantiFast™ kit is cheaper, the abTES™ kit demonstrated a lower LOD, supporting its use as a second-line referral-laboratory diagnostic tool in Sabah, Malaysia.
Gender Difference Analysis of Xp11.2 Translocation Renal Cell Carcinomas’s Attack Rate: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Zhuang Wenyuan , Liu Ning , Guo Hongqian , Gan Weidong , Zhang Chunni
Published: August 2020

Background: Xp11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma (tRCC) is recently recognized. As Xp11.2 tRCC involved gene translocation and fusion in X chromosome and the number of X chromosomes in female is twice of male, we wondered whether the gender difference of attack rate is consistent with the proportion of the X chromosome. Methods: In the present paper, meta-analysis was performed to find out the difference of morbidity between male and female. Results: 9 studies with 209 cases calculated. Odds ratios (ORs) and ORs with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for attack rate of Xp11.2 RCC with different gender. The result showed that the attack rate of female was higher than that of male with pooled OR of 2.84 (95 % CI = 1.48–5.45), while the rate rises even further in adult (OR =3.37, 95 % CI =2.19–5.18). In other types of common kidney cancer, the OR value is less than 1, which means that the incidence of female is lower than that of male.Conclusions: The result showed that the incidence rate of female patients is much higher than that of male patients with Xp11.2 tRCC, it was reasonable to indicate that this particular incidence rate is related to the X chromosome.
Effectiveness Of Structured Training Programme Regarding Adult Basic Life Support On Knowledge Of Nurses` In Zoba Maekel And National Referral Hospitals, Eritrea, 2018.
Authors: Ghirmai Filmon Abraham , Weldeghiorgis Ghidey Ghebreyowhanness , Bahlebi Teklu Tsegay , Tesfamariam Eyasu Habte
Published: August 2020

Background: In Eritrea nurses provide most of the health care in the primary, secondary and tertiary level health facilities. The rate of trauma and medical emergencies are on the increase so nurses should have adequate and updated knowledge on Basic Life Support in order to be able to implement effective interventions in cardiac arrest situations. Aim: The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of structured training programme regarding Adult Basic Life Support on knowledge of nurses.Method: A quasi-experimental single group, pretest-posttest and retest design was utilized. Forty (40) nurses’ participated in the study. Structured and modified questionnaire was used to collect data.Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 22.0 program. Frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation was used to describe the data. One way repeated measures of ANOVA was used to check the possible change in knowledge of the nurses at pre- intervention, immediate and three months’ after intervention. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.Results: The findings showed an acquisition of Adult Basic Life Support knowledge among the study participants following a four hour Basic Life Support training programme. Before training, the mean score of the study participant on knowledge questions was 9.58/20 and none of the respondents got a pass mark. Immediately after the training the mean score of the study participants was increased to 15.9/20 and 55.0% of the study participant got a passing mark. Significant deterioration from the immediate training score was found three months following Basic Life Support training as score was decreased to 14.9 and 40% of the respondents got a pass mark. Nurses’ knowledge was improved from their pre-training scores, which clearly indicated a positive retention in Basic Life Support knowledge after training. Conclusions: The study findings present strong evidence that support the critical role of structured training programme about Adult Basic Life Support in improving nurses knowledge.
A Feasibility Study Of A Cognitive Behavioral Based Stress Management Intervention For Nursing Students: Results, Challenges, And Implications For Research And Practice
Authors: Terp Ulrik , Bisholt Birgitta , Hjärthag Fredrik
Published: August 2020

Background: Stress related psychological problems are growing in nursing education and constitute an essential challenge for educators. This makes research about strategies and interventions to meet these problems important. Before implementing stress management interventions, they need to be tested for feasibility and acceptability before conducting large scale RCTs. The objective of our study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a newly developed cognitive behavioral stress management intervention for nursing students. Methods: Data were collected using a combination of standardized measurements and newly created questionnaires in combination with qualitative data. Our data included recruitment capability, sample characteristics, intervention acceptability and preliminary evaluation of participant psychological changes. Results: Findings suggested that the feasibility of conducting a full-scale evaluation was confirmed for recruitment, acceptability, data collection, and adherence to the intervention. However, difficulties relating to homework were also identified. The intervention was found feasible and acceptable to nursing students and a potential intervention for the nurse education context. Conclusions: Overall, this study provides an insight into the challenges and complexities of developing and evaluating a new brief cognitive behavioral based stress management training intervention in a nurse education setting. Support in the organization and scheduling are important aspects of implementation. In order to deal with the challenge of stress-related problems in nursing education, the thresholds for participation in effective interventions need to be low.
Ultrasensitive gene fusion detection reveals fusion variant associated tumor heterogeneity
Authors: Zhang Baifeng , Song Zhengbo , Bao Chloe Yufan , Xu Chunwei , Wang Wenxian , Chu Hoi Yee , Lu Chenyu , Wang Hongxiang , Bao Siyu , Gong Zhenyu , Keung Hoi Yee , Chow Maggie , Zhang Yiping , Cheuk Wah , Yang Mengsu , Cho William , Chen Juxiang , Zheng Zongli
Published: August 2020

Gene fusions are common drivers and therapeutic targets in cancers, but clinical-grade bioinformatics callers are lacking. Here we introduce a novel method SplitFusion, which is fast by leveraging BWA-MEM split alignments, can detect cryptic splice site fusions, and can infer frame-ness and exon-boundary alignments for functional prediction and minimizing false-positives. SplitFusion demonstrates superior sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and consumes minimal computing resources. In our study of 1,076 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded lung cancer samples, SplitFusion detected not only common fusions (EML4 4.7%, ROS1 2.0% and RET 1.1%) with various partners, but also rare (KLC1-ALK, CD74-NRG1, and TPR-NTRK1) and novel (FGFR3-JAKMP1, CLIP2-BRAF, and ITPR2-ETV6) fusions. In 35 glioblastoma samples, SplitFusion-Target detected six (17%) EGFR vIII (exons 2-7 deletion) cases. Furthermore, we find that the EML4-ALK variant 3 is significantly associated with occurrence of multiple breakpoint-defined subclones, namely high intratumor heterogeneity. In conclusion, SplitFusion is well-suited for clinical use and for studying fusion-defined tumor heterogeneity.
Adjuvant SOX Chemotherapy Versus Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy After D2 Radical Resection of Locally Advanced Esophagogastric Junction (EGJ) Adenocarcinoma: Study Protocol for a Randomized Phase III Trial (ARTEG)
Authors: Shen Jinwen , Zhu Xiu , Du Yian , Zhu Yuan , Yu Pengfei , Yang Litao , Xu Zhiyuan , Huang Ling , Zhang Yunli , Zhang Yanqiang , Liu Luying , Cheng Xiangdong
Published: August 2020

Background: Survival benefit of adjuvant radiotherapy for locally advanced gastric cancer following gastrectomy plus D2 lymphadenectomy has always been controversial. Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) adenocarcinoma, which is usually classified as gastric cancer in East Asia, often has a higher locoregional recurrence rate after operation because of its special anatomical characteristics. The aim of this study is to determine whether adjuvant radiotherapy can improve survival of locally advanced EGJ adenocarcinoma after D2 radical resection.Methods: In this phase III, randomized, open label, controlled trial, we plan to recruit 378 patients with Siewert type II and III adenocarcinoma of EGJ, who had undergone transabdominal radical surgery and D2 lymphadenectomy, and were divided into pathological stage IIB to IIIC. All patients will be randomized 1:1 to receive either adjuvant chemotherapy alone (control group) or adjuvant chemotherapy plus chemoradiotherapy (experimental group). Patients allocated to control group will receive eight cycles of S-1 plus oxaliplatin (SOX), while experimental group will receive two cycles of SOX followed by 45-Gy RT combined with S-1 and four additional cycles of SOX. The primary endpoint is three-year disease free survival rate (DFS). The secondary endpoints are three-year overall survival rate (OS), three-year locoregional recurrence free survival rate (LRFS), three-year distant metastasis free survival rate (DMFS), and quality of life (QoL).Discussion: In the past, the adjuvant treatment of EGJ adenocarcinoma need to draw on the experience of esophageal adenocarcinoma or gastric adenocarcinoma. In this study, EGJ adenocarcinoma is considered as an independent disease, and the conclusion will provide evidence for optimal adjuvant therapy of locally advanced EGJ adenocarcinoma after D2 radical resection.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03973008. Registered on June 1, 2019.
Effects of NAT2 Polymorphism on Lung Cancer Risk, and the Interaction Between Smoking and NAT2: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Ke , Xu Aiqun , Zhang Binbin , Li Pulin , Jiang Huihui , Zhou Sijing , Wang Ran
Published: August 2020

Background

Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world, and cancer death is mainly caused by lung cancer. At present, the etiology and pathogenesis of lung cancer are not clear. N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) is an enzyme found in the lungs, colon, breast, prostate, and liver. NAT2 is polymorphic and can metabolize carcinogens from tobacco smoke. At present, many studies have explored the effects of NAT2 polymorphism on lung cancer, but we found inconsistent results.
Methods

We conducted a research of 19 published studies, involving 4,130 patients and 6,057 controls, to more accurately assess the effects of NAT2 polymorphism on lung cancer risk and to investigate whether smoking is associated. We used STATA software to analyze the extracted data and used STATA for subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and to perform publication bias tests. To determine the correlation, we used the crude odds ratio (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (CIs).
Results

From the major results, we found that there was no significant correlation between NAT2 polymorphism and lung cancer (OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.84–1.19, I² = 63.3%, P < 0.001 for heterogeneity). We also found no significant results in stratified analyses of smoking, ethnicity, gender, and source of controls. However, we learned from the subgroup analysis that the lung cancer risk in NAT2 patients with intermediate-slow acetylation may be increased (OR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.22–2.73, I² = 39.6%, P = 0.191 for heterogeneity).
Conclusions

This research showed that no sufficient evidence was found to prove the effect of NAT2 polymorphism on lung cancer risk; however the increased acetylation capacity of NAT2 might reduce the risk of lung cancer.
Social and Economic Consequences of the Cost of Obstetric and Neonatal Care in Lubumbashi, in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Mixed Study
Authors: MUSAU Angèle NKOLA , Ntambue Abel Mukengeshayi , Omewatu Jacques Mungomba , Mundongo Henri Tshamba , Malonga Françoise Kaj
Published: August 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to explore and measure the social and economic consequences of the cost of obstetric and neonatal care in Lubumbashi, the Democratic Republic of Congo.Methods: We conducted a mixed qualitative and quantitative study in the maternity departments of health facilities in Lubumbashi. The qualitative results were based on a case study conducted in 2018 that included 14 respondents (8 parturients, 2 accompanying family members and 4 health care providers). A quantitative cross-sectional analytical study was carried out in 2019 with 411 women who gave birth at 10 referral hospitals. Data were collected for one month at each hospital, and selected parturients were included in the study only if they paid out-of-pocket and at the point of care for costs related to obstetric and neonatal care.Results: Costs for obstetric and neonatal care averaged US $77, US $207 and US $338 for simple, complicated vaginal and cesarean deliveries, respectively. These health expenditures were greater than or equal to 40% of the ability to pay for 58.4% of households. At the time of delivery, 14.1% of women in childbirth did not have enough money to pay for care. Of those who did, 76.5% spent their savings. When households did not pay for care, mothers and their babies were held for a long time at the place of care. This resulted in prolonged absence of the mother from the household, reduced household income, family conflicts, and the abandonment of the home by the spouse. At the health facility level, the length of stay increased without generating any additional financial benefits. Disrespectful care and the deterioration of the relationships between caregivers and parturients were also recorded.Conclusion: To reduce the social and economic consequences of care, the government of the DRC should implement a mechanism for subsidizing care and should associate it with a cost-sharing system. This would result in achieving universal health coverage and improving the physical, mental and social health of mothers, their babies and their households.
LncRNA LEF1-AS1 promotes metastasis of prostatic carcinoma via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Li Weiyuan , Yang Ganggang , Yang Dengke , Li Dong , Sun Qian
Published: August 2020

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are important functional regulators in cancer, have emerged as critical molecular regulators in various biological processes. However, the mechanisms by which LEF1-AS1 modulates Androgen-Independent Prostate Cancer (AIPC) development remain largely unknown.Methods: The LEF1-AS1 expression level was detected in tumour tissues and adjacent normal tissues of AIPC patients by using next-generation sequencing technology and qRT-PCR. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were assessed by colony formation, EDU assays and transwell assays, respectively. Xenograft assay was conducted to determine the effect of LEF1-AS1 on cell proliferation in vivo.Results: LEF1-AS1 promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenic ability of AIPC cells in vitro and in vivo. In this mechanism, LEF1-AS1 recruited the transcription factor C-myb to the promoter region of FZD2, which activated FZD2 transcription. Moreover, LEF1-AS1 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) acting as a sponge for miR-328, which activated CD44.Conclusion: Collectively, these data indicate that LEF1-AS1 is a tumour promoter in the development of AIPC and that it may contribute to the improvement of AIPC diagnosis and therapy.
A Flexible Electron-blocking Interfacial Shield for Dendrite-free Solid Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Huo Hanyu , Gao Jian , Zhao Ning , Zhang Dongxing , Holmes Nathaniel , Li Xiaona , Sun Yipeng , Fu Jiamin , Li Ruying , Guo Xiangxin , Sun Xueliang
Published: August 2020

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are considered to be the next-generation lithium-ion battery technology due to their enhanced energy density and safety. However, the high electronic conductivity of solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) leads to Li dendrite nucleation and proliferation. Uneven electric-field distribution resulting from poor interfacial contact can further promote dendritic deposition and lead to rapid short circuiting of SSBs. Herein, a flexible electron-blocking interfacial shield (EBS) is proposed to protect garnet electrolytes from the electronic degradation. The EBS formed by an in-situ substitution reaction can not only increase lithiophilicity but also stabilize the Li volume change, maintaining the integrity of the interface during repeated cycling. Density functional theory calculations show a high electron-tunneling energy barrier from Li metal to the EBS, indicating an excellent capacity for electron-blocking. EBS protected cells exhibit an improved critical current density of 1.2 mA cm-2 and stable cycling for over 400 h at 1 mA cm-2 (1 mAh cm-2) at room temperature. These results demonstrate an effective strategy for the suppression of Li dendrites and present fresh insight into the rational design of the SSE and Li metal interface.
SERS background imaging – A versatile tool towards more reliable SERS analytics
Authors: Ebersbach Paul , Münchberg Ute , Freier Erik
Published: August 2020

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a highly selective and sensitive straightforward analytical method, which is however not yet established in routine analysis due to a lack of reliability and reproducibility. To address this limitation, we show the distinct correlation of the ever-present but often neglected broad SERS background continuum with the SERS signal intensity of the analyte and how to exploit this correlation for an easy-to-handle, automatable and more reliable SERS measurement. First, fast and high-contrast imaging of the SERS substrate is performed for hot spot localisation utilizing the SERS background. Subsequently, highly enhanced SERS spectra are recorded at the centre of these spots. Furthermore, we correlate our SERS background imaging with other optical imaging modalities and electron microscopy to assess structure-property relationships. Monte Carlo simulations based on actual measurements illustrate the sampling error of a conventional SERS experiment and the advantages our method provides.
Salivary biochemical assessments to determine smoking cessation under smoking cessation program
Authors: Umer Daood , Bijle Mohammed Nadeem , Mahdi Syed Sarosh , Omar Hanan , Bilal Sobia
Published: August 2020

Background: The study aim was to investigate the potential of salivary biochemical assessments to determine smoking cessation in patients under smoking cessation programs. Methods: The study validated smoking behavior and degree of nicotine dependence using Fagerström test for nicotine dependence in smokers and non-smokers. Protein components were examined using Raman spectroscopy. Salivary MMP-8 levels were analyzed using Quantikine human total MMP-8 immunoassay-kits. Thiocyanate (SCN-) concentrations, peroxidase and glutathione-peroxidase activities were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Human mononuclear cell line was examined for M1 polarization. The data were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test and two-tailed paired t-test at α=0.05. Results: Amide I peak in smoker group was significantly reduced as compared to non-smokers (p<0.05). Sulfhydryl bond, dialkyl disulfides SS-stretch and corresponding disulphide bond at 500-545 cm-1 were significantly increased in smokers (p<0.05). The CH2 wag showed higher intensity amongst smoker group representing a recoil of carbon atoms. Salivary MMP-8 levels of participants after smoking cessation was significantly lower than smoking salivary levels (p<0.05). The SCN- and peroxidase concentrations were significantly higher in smoking group whereas an M1 polarization was seen in non-smokers. Conclusion: Salivary biochemical analysis can aid clinicians to verify smoking cessation in patients under smoking cessation programs.
Use of traditional medicine for dental care by different ethnic groups in New Zealand
Authors: Guo Jun , Low Karson , Mei Li , Li JiaHui , Qu Wenwen , Guan Guangzhao
Published: August 2020

Objective: To explore the views, use of and access to traditional medicine (TM) among different ethnicities living in New Zealand. Methods: Qualitative study and in depth interviews were used. An individual semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using an inductive approach to identify the main themes. Results: Three main themes were extracted from interviews with 14 participants from diverse cultural backgrounds: (1) the perspectives of TM varied among different ethnic groups, and included the involvement of spirituality, the environment, knowledge and usage of TM. (2) The TM that was used by different ethnic groups included plants, herbs, massage, and other forms of healing. Reasons for choosing traditional or western medicines generally included family tradition, access to TM, and finding a competent traditional healer. (3) The barriers in accessing TM included the paucity of traditional healers, difficulty accessing plants and cost, therefore most would look for substitution or alternative treatment. Conclusion: Even though the access to these TM in New Zealand was a challenge for the majority of the participants, they are still considered the first-line treatment for the majority. This study provided dental practitioners an insight into the different sort of TM used by the population. By understanding and acknowledging the use of TM, dental practitioners could create a supportive environment for patients to disclose their use of TM and allow them to educate patients on the use of TM.
Genome-wide Identification, Characterization and Expression profile of TALE gene family in Juglans regia L.
Authors: Guo Caihua , Niu Jianxin , Quan Shaowen , Zhang Zhongrong , Kang Chao , Liu Jinming
Published: August 2020

Background
The three amino acid loop extension (TALE) are essential transcription factors that regulate the differentiation of meristem in the plant growth and development. there's a lot of journalism of the TALE family in plants, such as Arabidopsis, rice, and others. however, there's no report on the TALE family in walnut.
Results
In this study, the genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the TALE gene family were studied comprehensively in walnut. Based on the specific structure of the TALE domain, a total of twenty-seven walnut TALE genes (JrTALE) were identified. According to different domains structure and phylogenetic relationships, the JrTALE gene family could be divided into two subfamilies, namely BELL and KNOX. This family was relatively conservative in evolution. Exon-intron structure analysis showed that there were 3 to 6 exons, and they had a wide range of exons length. Analysis of protein conserved motifs showed that JrTALE contained similar motif structures in the same phylogenetic branch. Expression pattern analysis of the TALE family genes in walnut showed that JrTALE41 and JrTALE42 were differentially expressed in female and male flower buds. We confirmed that JrTALE4-5, JrTALE8-12, JrTALE36-37, JrTALE46-53, and JrTALE14-15 were differentially expressed between different stages of flower bud development by real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR).
Conclusions
Sixty-nine JrTALEs were identified in the genome-wide. the physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, promoter cis-acting elements, and protein interactions were systematically analyzed by bioinformatics methods. This study provides valuable information about the TALE family in the transitional development of walnut flower buds, which lay the foundation for further understanding of TALE family genes and in walnut.
Caregiver perceptions of child diet status: What influenced their judgement
Authors: Shao Lijing , He Qiuping , Yang Mei , Xiang Bing , Hao Liping , Yang Xuefeng , Zeng Jing
Published: August 2020

Background: Caregiver perceptions of child diet status can influence the effect of health intervention, but research focused on the correctness of caregiver's perception is limited. This study aimed to figure out the correctness of caregiver's perception of their child's diet status and find out the factors which may influence their judgement.Methods: 815 children from grade 3rd to 6th and their caregivers were recruited from two primary schools by cluster sampling. 3-day 24-hour recall was used to record children’s diet, caregiver’s perceptions was obtained through questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to explore the influencing factors of the correctness of caregiver’s perception.Results: Among the 597 children with “balanced” diet, 62.1% were correctly perceived as having a “healthy” diet by their caregivers; but for the 218 children with “imbalanced” diet, just 16.1% were correctly identified. Those who were correctly identified as having an unhealthy diet consumed less fruits and more snacks than those unidentified (p<0.05). Obese children were more likely to be perceived as having unhealthy diet even when they actually had a balanced diet (OR=0.305, p=0.016). Caregivers with high educational level were more likely to correctly perceive children’s healthy diet status (OR=3.628, p=0.038).Conclusions: Caregivers were generally lack of the ability to identify children's unhealthy diet. Obesity, significantly low consumption of fruits or high consumption of snacks can raise caregivers’ awareness. Extensive health education targeting caregivers is in emergency.
Assessing Technical Assistance Needs Among Recovery Residence Operators in the United States
Authors: Miles Jennifer , Bunn Terry , Kizewski Amber , Jennings Tyler , Waters Teresa , Johnson Dave , Sheridan Dave , Fletcher Ernie
Published: August 2020

Background: Recovery support services such as recovery housing may assist individuals with increasing their access to social support, employment services, and systems of care. Lack of evidence-based practices and calls for increased oversight of these settings suggests a growing need for technical assistance and training for recovery residence owners and staff members, yet little is known about their areas of greatest technical assistance needs, and if there are differences between the needs of owners/operators of one recovery residence vs. owners/operators of multiple recovery residences. Methods: We developed and administered a survey to assess the technical assistance needs of recovery housing operators in the United States using a convenience sample of individuals who own or operate a recovery residence (N= 376). The survey was disseminated electronically via e-mail using REDCap to collect survey responses. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the survey respondents, and bivariate analyses were conducted to test for differences in TA needs by the number of residences owned by the respondent (1 vs. 2+). Thematic analysis methods were used to analyze open text survey response items focusing on challenges, resources needed to overcome challenges, and community perception of recovery residences. Results: A total of 77 owners/operators completed the survey (20% response rate), representing urban, suburban, and rural communities. Almost one-half (45%) of respondents were the owner of their residence(s), and more than half (56%) of the respondents reported that their residence was certified based on a set of national best practices for recovery housing. Differences were observed between number of owned residences; owners/operators of a single residence expressed greater interest in technical assistance on house-specific policies and linkage to established systems of care, whereas owners/operators of multiple residences were more interested in technical assistance on complex topics such as building financial sustainability, and incorporation of best practices into their recovery residences. Conclusion: As an increasing number of states move to implement voluntary certification or licensing for recovery residences, targeted training and technical assistance to owners/operators will facilitate the successful adoption of recovery residence best practices and quality standards.
WITHDRAWN: The Effectiveness of the Government Subsidies on the Photovoltaic Industry--Spatial Econometric Analysis Based on China’s Provincial Panel Data（2011-2018）
Authors: Shao feng Xue , Fang shu Tian
Published: August 2020

Background
Energy resources are important sources of social and economic development, human survival and security. However, energy resources are objective and scarce, especially the fossil energy, such as coal, oil, natural gas, etc. Human survival environment is increasingly damaged, and the condition of energy is also gradually becoming deficient, so it is necessary to develop new energy resources to meet the increasing demand of material civilization. Solar energy can meet the needs of human development in the future as a kind of clean resource and it has been concerned by all countries in the world.
Methods
We analyzed the effectiveness of subsidies to the PV industry of both the price and R&D by the spatial econometric model. Descriptive statistical analysis is used to analyze various characteristics of a set of data in order to describe the typical characteristics of the measurement sample. In addition, we used spatial global autocorrelation which was based on Moran's I index. At the same time, LISA agglomeration map was used to measure the spatial distribution of solar photovoltaic capacity.
Results
Subsidy policy for the grid benchmark is conducive to the balanced development of photovoltaic industry. The subsidy for the grid benchmark passed the significance test at the level of 1%, which showed that the spatial impact of subsidy for grid benchmark on the installed photovoltaic capacity is significant. What’s more, the government R&D subsidy plays a positive role in promoting the development of the photovoltaic industry.
Conclusions
In some region, the production capacity of photovoltaic industry has shown a significant spatial agglomeration situation in China since 2012. At the same time, benchmarking price and R&D subsidies played a positive incentive to the photovoltaic industry production capacity. It is a certain degree of inverse correlation between the scale of policy subsidies and the resource endowment of solar resources. Therefore, the countermeasures should be considered from the aspects of institutions, industry, technology and public financial policies.
Lateral lymph node dissection reduces local recurrence of locally advanced lower rectal cancer in the absence of preoperative neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gao Xiang , Wang Cun , Yu Yong-Yang , Yang Lie , Zhou Zong-Guang
Published: August 2020

Background: The role of lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) in the treatment of locally advanced lower rectal cancer remains controversial. The present study was conducted to compare total mesorectal excision (TME) with or without LLND in clinical stage II/III lower rectal cancer.Methods: Studies published in PubMed, Embase, Ovid, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and the ClinicalTrials.gov databases were systematically searched for studies that compared TME with or without LLND in clinical stage II/III lower rectal cancer. Subgroup analysis was performed based on whether preoperative neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) was undertaken. The hazard ratios (HR), relative risk (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were pooled.Results: Twelve studies that included 4458 patients were identified in the current meta-analysis. Pooled data demonstrated that TME with LLND was associated with significantly longer operation time (WMD 90.73 min, P<0.001), more intraoperative blood loss (WMD 303.20 mL, P<0.001) and postoperative complications (RR=1.35, P=0.02). Urinary dysfunction (RR 1.44, P=0.38), sexual dysfunction (RR 1.41, P=0.17), and postoperative mortality (RR=1.52, P=0.70) were similar between the two groups. No statistically significant differences were observed in OS (HR 0.93, P=0.62), DFS (HR 0.99, P=0.96), total recurrence (RR 0.98, P=0.83), lateral recurrence (RR 0.49, P=0.14) or distant recurrence (RR 0.95, P=0.78) between the two groups regardless the use of nCRT. LLND significantly reduced local recurrence rate of patients who did not receive nCRT (RR 0.71, P=0.004); while the difference was not significant when nCRT was performed (RR 0.70, P=0.36).Conclusions: Our study found LLND could not significantly improve survival in locally advanced lower rectal cancer, but could reduce the local recurrence in the absence of preoperative nCRT. The advantage of controlling local recurrence might be replaced with nCRT.Registration: The protocol for this meta-analysis was registered prospectively with PROSPERO (CRD42020135575) in 16 May 2019.
Regularity of clinical visits and medication adherence of patients with hypertension or diabetes in rural Yunnan province of China
Authors: Gao Qiufeng , Peng Lanxi , Min Wenbin , Nie Jingchun , Wang Aiqin , Yi Hongmei , Shi Yaojiang , Teuwen Dirk E. , Shi Haonan
Published: August 2020

Objective Chronic diseases can be controlled through effective self-management. The purpose of this study is to explore the regularity of clinical visits and medication adherence of patients with hypertension or diabetes (PDH), and its association with the first experience with care and individual factors in rural Southwestern China.Methods The authors draw on a dataset which comprised of 292 PDH and 122 village clinics selected from 122 villages in 10 counties in the rural areas of Yunnan province. Data was gathered through interviews with these patients and the directors of the village clinics in January 2018. Logistic regression models were performed using STATA 15.0.Results The data shows around 31% of hypertensive and 25% of diabetic patients neither visited physicians nor took medicine regularly during the preceding three months of the interview date. We also documented PDH first experience with care and found that a proportion of them did not initially choose to seek care from health facilities. The logistic regression results indicated that individual characteristics of the PDH, including patient age, health status, and economic level, as well as their first experience with care were significantly associated with their regular healthcare behavior. Moreover, in addition to providing medical services, on average each sample village clinic with around two physicians simultaneously managed 180 hypertensive and 45 diabetic patients.Conclusions Our paper shows how current self-management trends among PDH in the sample area was unsatisfactory, threatening the effective control of hypertension and diabetes in China. Even though healthcare reforms in China have been launched since 2009, this study revealed the need for further reforms in terms of improving self-management. The authors recommend an increase in the quantity and the quality of human resources in the primary healthcare realm in rural China, which should help provide better education and supervision services for self-management.
Prevalence, pattern and distribution of MIH defects in Sudanese children
Authors: Abdalla Hanna Elhassan , Abuaffan Amal Hussein , Kemoli Arthur Musakulu
Published: August 2020

Background: Molar incisos hypomineralization (MIH) has serious impact on oral health-related quality of life for a child, due to its effects on tooth structure, aesthetics and behavior of the child. The current study was designed to determine the prevalence, pattern and distribution of MIH in school children in Sudan.Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 568 children, aged 8-11 years from schools in Khartoum State. After collecting their socio-demographic data, the children were examined for hypomineralization on the 12 MIH indexed teeth, and assessed on the MIH pattern and distribution. The data collected were analyzed to obtain descriptive statstics, and the results related to the socio-demographic and other dental-related factors of the children using chi-square test and Spearman Rank Correlation, with the significant level set at p<0.05.Results: The prevalence of MIH in the study population was 20.1%. Majority of the affected teeth were permanent first molars (PFMs) (12.5%), but there was no statistical significant difference between the occurrence of hypomineralization on mandibular and maxillary molars (p=0.22). However, in the case of incisors, there was a statistical significant difference between the maxillary incisors that had higher hypomineralization rate when related to the mandibular incisors ( p=0.00). In terms of the pattern of hypomineralization, demarcated opacities were the commonest MIH defects (69.9%) in the study group.Conclusions: While the prevalence of MIH in the study population was 20.1%, both molars and incisor teeth were frequently affected in both dental arches, and the demarcated opacity type were the most frequent form of defect found in the teeth of the participants.
Comparison of safety between self-expanding metal stents as a bridge to surgery and emergency surgery based on pathology: a meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Yang , Fan Jiajun , Xv Yifan , Hu Yingjie , Ding Yuan , Jiang Zhengjie , Tao Qingsong
Published: August 2020

Background To explore the long-term oncological safety of using self-expanding metal stents(SEMS) as a bridge to surgery for acute obstructive colorectal cancer by comparing the pathological results of emergency surgery(ES) with elective surgery after the placement of SEMS.Methods Studies comparing SMES as a bridge to surgery with emergency surgery for acute obstructive colorectal cancer were retrieved through the databases of Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane libraries, and a meta-analysis was conducted based on the pathological results of the two treatments. Risk ratios(OR) or mean differences(MD) with 95% confidence intervals(CI) were calculated for the outcomes under random effects model.Results A total of 27 studies were included, including 3 randomized controlled studies, 2 prospective studies, and 22 retrospective studies, with a total of 3737 patients. The presence of perineural invasion(RR=0.58, 95% CI=0.48, 0.71, P<0.00001), lymphovascular invasion(RR=0.68, 95%CI=0.47,0.99, P=0.004) and vascular invasion(RR=0.66, 95%CI=0.45,0.99, P=0.04) in SEMS group were significantly higher than those in ES group, and there was no significant difference in lymphatic invasion(RR=0.92, 95%CI=0.77,1.09, P=0.33). The number of lymph nodes harvested in SEMS group was significantly higher than that in ES group(MD=-3.18, 95% CI=-4.47,-1.90, P<0.00001). While no significant difference was found in the number of positive lymph nodes(MD=-0.11, 95%CI=-0.63,0.42, P=0.69) and N stage[N0(RR=1.03, 95%CI=0.92,1.15, P=0.60), N1(RR=0.99, 95%CI=0.87,1.14, P=0.91), N2(RR=0.94, 95%CI=0.77,1.15, P=0.53)]. Conclusions: SEMS implantation in patients with acute malignant obstructive colorectal cancer may lead to an increase in adverse tumor pathological characteristics, and these characteristics are mostly related to the poor prognosis of colorectal cancer. Although the adverse effect of SEMS on long-term survival has not been demonstrated, it should not be considered as the first treatment for radically resectable colorectal cancer.
Comparing Resident Outcomes in Cataract Surgery at Different Levels of Experience: A retrospective case series
Authors: Melega Mathias , Lira Rodrigo , Silva Iuri , Ferreira Bruna , Filho Hermano , Martini Alexandre , Reis Roberto , Arieta Carlos , Alves Monica
Published: August 2020

BackgroudTo evaluate outcomes of resident-performed cataract surgeries in different training levels in a retrospective case series.MethodsA total of 730 surgeries performed by residents were evaluated into three groups: surgeries performed during residents’ first semester of training in phacoemulsification (S1), surgeries performed during the second semester (S2), and surgeries performed during the third semester (S3). The primary outcome was the incidence of intraoperative complications in each group. Secondary outcomes were the comparisons between initial and final corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD), and central corneal thickness (CCT) in each group. Descriptive statistical analyses were employed in the presentation of the results using central tendency and variance measurements. The groups’ continuous variables were compared using the t-test or ANOVA (parametric variables) or the Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis tests (non-parametric variables). Statistical analyses of the categorical variables were performed using Fisher’s exact test or the chi-squared test.ResultsThe rate of complications within six weeks of follow up was 24 out of 102 eyes (23.53%) in the S1 group, 63 out of 301 eyes (20.93%) in the S2 group, and 37 out of 327 (11.31%) in the S3 group (p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in CDVA (p = 0.298), ECD (p = 0.067), IOP (p = 0.217), or CCT (p = 0.807) between the groups.ConclusionsWhen measured by rates of complications and by the aforementioned parameters, surgical competency was found to improve as surgical experience and frequency increased. Therefore, this study identified some patterns of skill development that can be applied to teaching strategies and better assist surgeons in training.
Extrusion of subducted crust explains the emplacement of far-travelled ophiolites
Authors: Porkoláb Kristóf , Duretz Thibault , Yamato Philippe , Auzemery Antoine , Willingshofer Ernst
Published: August 2020

Continental subduction below oceanic plates and associated emplacement of far-travelled ophiolite sheets remain enigmatic chapters in global plate tectonics. Numerous ophiolite belts on Earth exhibit continental rocks that experienced subduction-related high pressure-low temperature (HP-LT) metamorphism and subsequent exhumation coeval with the emplacement of ophiolites. However, the link between continental subduction dynamics and ophiolite emplacement is poorly understood. Here we combine data collected from ophiolite belts worldwide with thermo-mechanical simulations of continental subduction dynamics to show the causal link between the exhumation of subducted continental crust and ophiolite emplacement. Our results reveal that buoyancy-driven extrusion of subducted crust triggers necking and breaking of the overriding oceanic upper plate. This process is fundamental for the formation of a far-travelled ophiolite sheet that is separated from the oceanic domain by the exhumed, HP-LT continental upper crust. Our results indicate that the exhumation of the subducted continental crust and far-travelled ophiolite sheet emplacement are inseparable processes and thus shed light on one of the most mysterious aspect of plate tectonics.