bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardization of Three-Dimensional Pose of Cylindrical Implants From Intraoral Radiographs
Authors: Cosola Saverio , Toti Paolo , Peñarrocha-Diago Miguel , Covani Ugo , Brevi Bruno Carlo , Peñarrocha-Oltra David
Published: December 2020

BackgroundTo introduce a theoretical solution to a posteriori describe the pose of a cylindrical dental fixture as appearing on radiographs; to experimentally validate the method described.MethodsThe pose of a conventional dental implant was described by a triplet of angles (phi-pitch, theta-roll, and psi-yaw) which was calculated throughout vector analysis. Radiographic- and simulated-image obtained with an algorithm were compared to test effectiveness, reproducibility, and accuracy of the method. The length of the dental implant as appearing on the simulated image was calculated by the trigonometric function and then compared with real length as it appeared on a two-dimensional radiograph. ResultsTwenty radiographs were analyzed for the present in silico and retrospective study. Among 40 fittings, 37 resulted as resolved with residuals ≤1mm. Similar results were obtained for radiographic and simulated implants with absolute errors of -1.1±3.9° for phi; -0.9±4.1° for theta; 0±1.1° for psi. The real and simulated length of the implants appeared to be heavily correlated. Linear dependence was verified by the results of the robust linear regression: 0.9757 (slope), +0.1344mm (intercept), and an adjusted coefficient of determination of 0.9054.ConclusionsThe method allowed clinicians to calculate, a posteriori, a single real triplet of angles (phi,theta,psi) by analyzing a two-dimensional radiograph and to identify cases where standardization of repeated intraoral radiographies was not achieved. The a posteriori standardization of two-dimensional radiographs could allowed the clinicians to minimize the patient's exposure to ionizing radiations for the measurement of marginal bone levels around dental implants.Trial registrationThe Human Investigation Committee (IRB) of University of Pisa approved present retrospective data analysis (Ethical Approval Form 2626/2008 Protocol Number 58183)
Surveying the Lettuce Genome: Genome-wide Identification of Hsfs and Hsps in Response to UV and High Light Stress
Authors: Kim Taehoon , Samraj Shafina , Jimenez Juan , Gómez Celina , Liu Tie , Begcy Kevin
Published: December 2020

Background Heat shock factors (Hsfs) and Heat shock proteins (Hsps) belong to an essential group of molecular regulators involved in controlling cellular processes under normal and stress conditions. The role of Hsfs and Hsps is well known in model plant species under diverse stress conditions. However, in lettuce (Lactuca sativa), a highly consumed vegetable crop grown in the field and in hydroponic systems, the role of these gene families in response to artificial light is not well characterized. Results Using a genome-wide analysis approach, we identified 32 Hsfs and 22 small heat shock proteins (LsHsps) in lettuce, some of which do not have orthologous in Arabidopsis, poplar, and rice. LsHsp60s, LsHsp90s, and LsHsp100s are highly conserved among dicot and monocot species. Surprisingly, LsHsp70s have three times more members than Arabidopsis and two times more than rice. Genome triplication might have contributed to the increased number of LsHsp70s genes. Chromosomal distribution analysis shows larger tandem repeats of LsHsp70s genes in Chr1, Chr7, Chr8, and Chr9. At the transcriptional level, some genes of the LsHsfs, LsHsps, LsHsp60s, and LsHsp70s families were highly responsive to UV and high light stress, in contrast of LsHsp90s and LsHsp100s which did not respond to a light stimulus. Conclusions Our genome-wide analysis provides a detail identification of Hsfs and Hsps in lettuce. Chromosomal location and syntenic region analysis together with our transcriptional analysis under different light conditions provide candidate genes for breeding programs aiming to produce lettuce varieties able to grow healthy under hydroponic systems that use artificial light.
Neutron Bragg-Edge Transmission Imaging for Microstructure and Residual Strain in Induction Hardened Gears
Authors: Su Yuhua , Oikawa Kenichi , Shinohara Takenao , Kai Tetsuya , Horino Takashi , Idohara Osamu , Misaka Yoshitaka , Tomota Yo
Published: December 2020

A time-of-flight Bragg-edge neutron transmission imaging was used to investigate the microstructure and strain distributions in a gear hardened by a newly developed two-step induction-heating method: precursor (Sample 1) and final product (Sample 2). The edge-position and edge-broadening were determined and mapped with high resolution, which enabled us to confirm the two-dimensional distributions of the microstructure and residual strain. A deep hardened layer was made for Sample 1 in which martensite was formed on the entire teeth and the outer peripheral portion of the gear body. Sample 2 was subjected to double induction-hardening, where a tempered martensite was formed as the thermal refined microstructure between a fine-grained martensite at the tooth surface and a ferrite-pearlite microstructure at the core. The relationship between edge-broadening and the Vickers hardness described by a linear equation was employed to derive the elastic residual strain. The residual strain map for Sample 2 revealed that a steep compressive strain was introduced into the fine-grained martensite at the tooth surface by the super rapid induction-heating and quenching process. The reversal of tension was speculated to occur below 2 mm from the tooth tip, and the strain was almost zero in the core region.
Population Size and Human-Grivet Monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops) Conflict in Zegie Peninsula, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
Authors: Yitayih Yibelu , Ejigu Dessalegn , Mola Misganaw
Published: December 2020

Background: Grivet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops) is an Old World monkey with long white tufts of hair along the sides of the face. They inhabit a wide range of habitat types. A study on population size and human-grivet monkey conflict in Zegie Peninsula was carried out from August 2019 to March 2020; the study comprised both the wet and dry seasons. The line transect method was used to collect data on the population size of grivet monkeys. Questionnaire and focus group discussions were used to study the human-grivet monkey conflict and its conservation status. Results: The estimated population of grivets in the study area was 4808. Population structure of grivets indicated that there were 634 adult males, 1236 adult females, 1733 juveniles, and 1205 infants. Grivet population estimate between the wet and dry seasons did not show significant differences (ᵡ2 = 0.938, df = 1, p > 0.05). But there was a significant difference in the population estimate of grivets among the different habitats (ᵡ2 = 238.295, df = 3, p < 0.05).Conclusion: There was a human-grivet monkey conflict in the Peninsula and grivets were damaged crops, not only crops but also predating poultry, steal an egg, and human food. Consequently, grivets were killed in response to the damage they cause to crops. Grivet’s habitat in the Peninsula is highly disturbed because the local people cut trees for sale to support their livelihood. Awareness creation of the residents about wildlife and their habitat is necessary, and people should understand the impact of deforestation, illegal hunting, and the role of grivets in the ecosystem at large. Hence there is a need to protect the forest in order to ensure sustainable conservation of biodiversity in general and grivet monkeys in particular.
Methodology for classifying the ecosystem integrity of forests in Germany using quantified indicators
Authors: Jenssen Martin , Nickel Stefan , Schröder Winfried
Published: December 2020

Background. Atmospheric deposition of nitrogen (N) and climate change can have impacts on ecological structures and functions, and thus on the integrity of ecosystems and their services. Operationalization of ecosystem integrity is still an important desideratum.Results. A methodology for classifying the ecosystem integrity of forests in Germany under the influence of climate change and atmospheric N deposition is presented. The methodology is based on 14 indicators for six ecosystem functions: habitat function, net primary function, carbon sequestration, nutrient and water flux, resilience. It allows assessments of ecosystem integrity changes by comparing current or prospective ecosystem states with ecosystem-type specific reference states as described by quantitative indicators for 61 forest ecosystem types based on data before 1990.Conclusion. The method developed enables site-specific classifications of ecosystem integrity as well as classifications with complete coverage and determinations of temporal trends as shown using examples from the Thuringian Forest and the "Kellerwald-Edersee" National Park (Germany).
Validation of the Attitudes to Patient Safety Questionnaire for Nursing Students in the Spanish Context
Authors: Cervera-Gasch Águeda , González-Chordá Víctor M , Manrique-Abril Fred Gustavo , Andreu-Pejo Laura , Valero-Chillerón María Jesús , Tudela Desirée Mena
Published: December 2020

Background: There are different instruments to assess the attitudes of nursing students towards patient safety. However, no questionnaire validated in Spanish with this objective was identified. The objective of this study was to validate the Attitudes to Patient Safety (APS) questionnaire for nursing students in Spain and to study the attitudes towards patient safety of nursing students at the Universitat Jaume I (Spain). Design: Cross-sectional psychometric study developed in a sample of 177 undergraduate nursing students. The study was carried out in the second semester of 2016Methods: First, a nominal group was created to perform cross-cultural adaptation and determine content validity of the Attitude to Patient Safety Questionnaire (APQS-III). Second, a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the psychometric properties of the questionnaire and to study nursing student attitudes towards patient safety. Results: Exploratory factorial analysis explained 53.82% of the variance, with good internal consistency (α=0.808), and confirmatory factor analysis indicate an adequate fit between the model and the data (χ2=366; p<0.001; χ2/df=1.886; RMSEA=0.07; IC95%=0.059–0.081; CFI=0.885. Intra-observer reliability was good (ICC=0.792, p <0.001). The mean overall score of the questionnaire was 3.92 (95% CI=3.88-4.03). Significant differences were observed regarding whether the students had completed a clinical practicum (p=0.012) and the academic year (p=0.25). Conclusion: The psychometric properties of the APS questionnaire adapted for Spanish nursing students are adequate. Students show an adequate attitude towards patient safety; however, it is necessary to develop a strategy to guarantee the acquisition of competency for patient safety as well as to design and evaluate specific educational interventions.
A Fuzzy-algorithm-based Sliding Mode Control Approach for Acceleration Slip Regulation of Battery Electric Vehicle
Authors: He Lin , Yao Cheng , He Zejia , Gao Bingzhao , Shi Qin
Published: December 2020

Due to large torque and quick response of electric motor, the traction wheels of battery electric vehicle (BEV) are easy to slip during the initial phase of starting. In this paper, an acceleration slip regulation approach based on sliding mode control algorithm is proposed to prevent the wheel slip of BEV. The traction wheel slip ratio is used as the control parameter, and a sliding mode controller is deduced from it. A fuzzy algorithm is employed to revise the switch function of sliding mode controller. After stability and robustness analysis, the sliding mode controller is validated by dynamic simulation of BEV. The sliding mode control law is transferred into vehicle control unit and is veried by road tests, the results of which show that the sliding mode controller is a good candidate to prevent the wheel slip.
Association between Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate and Clinical Outcomes in Ischemic Stroke Patients with High-Grade Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Chao Chung-Hao , Wu Chia-Lun , Huang Wen-Yi
Published: December 2020

Background: Chronic kidney disease has been identified as a risk factor affecting stroke prognosis. High-grade carotid artery stenosis (CAS) is associated with distal hemodynamic compromise. The association between the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and ischemic stroke (IS) outcome in patients with high-grade CAS remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the association between eGFR and outcomes of acute IS patients with high-grade CAS.Methods: From January 1, 2007, to April 30, 2012, we enrolled 372 acute IS patients with high-grade CAS and prospectively observed them for 5 years. The eGFR on admission was assessed using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study equation. Demographic features, vascular risk factors, comorbidities, and outcomes were compared between different eGFR levels. Results: Among 372 individuals, 76 (20.4%) had eGFR≺45, 65 (17.5%) had eGFR between 45 to 59, and 231 (62.1%) had eGFR≧60 mL/min/1.73 m2. The prevalence rates of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease, and gout in patients with lower eGFR were significantly higher than in those with higher eGFR (P = 0.013, P = 0.030, P = 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.043, and P < 0.001, respectively). Patients with lower eGFR demonstrated lower hemoglobin and total cholesterol levels compared with those with higher eGFR (P < 0.001 and P = 0.048). The blood potassium and uric acid levels were significantly higher in patients with lower eGFR (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001). The multivariate Cox proportional hazards model indicated that eGFR≺45 mL/min/1.73 m2 as a significant risk factor for the 5-year all-cause mortality in IS patients with high-grade CAS after adjusting for these variables (HR = 2.05; 95% CI = 1.31-3.21; P = 0.002).Conclusions: eGFR≺45 mL/min/1.73 m2 was associated with an increased risk of 5-year all-cause mortality in acute IS patients with high-grade CAS. Therefore, the prevention of eGFR decline in patients with high-grade CAS may improve long-term stroke outcome.
Phagocytosis of Polymeric Nanoparticles Aided Activation of Macrophages to Induce Atherosclerotic Plaques in Apoe-/- Mice 
Authors: Yin Tieying , Li Yanhong , Atik Rohmana Maftuhatul Fuad , Ren Yuzhen , Hu Fangfang , Du Ruolin , Wang Yang , Wang Guixue , Wang Yazhou
Published: December 2020

The unique physiochemical properties of nanomaterials have been widely used in drug delivery systems and diagnostic contrast agents. The safety issues of biomaterials with exceptional biocompatibility and hemo-compatibility have also received extensive attention at the nanoscale, especially in cardiovascular disease. Therefore, we conducted a study of the effects of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) on the development of aortic atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE-/- mice. The particle size of PLGA NPs was 92.69 ± 3.1 nm and the zeta potential were -31.6 ± 2.8 mV, with good blood compatibility. ApoE-/- mice were continuously injected with PLGA NPs intravenously for 4 and 12 weeks. Examination of oil red O stained aortic sinuses confirmed that the accumulation of PLGA NPs promoted the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and increasing the expression of associated inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10. The combined exposure of ox-LDL and PLGA NPs accelerated the conversion of macrophages to foam cells. Our results highlight the potential risk for PLGA NPs in vivo and further understanding the interaction between PLGA NPs and the atherosclerotic plaques, which we should consider in future nanomaterial design and pay more attention to the process of using nano-medicines on cardiovascular diseases.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Lactobacillus Plantarum Isolated from Green Tea
Authors: Na Jungtae , Kim Su-Young , Lee Jung Ok , Kim Yu-jin , Lee Esther , Chae Minjung , Park Miyoung , Kim Beom Joon
Published: December 2020

Background: Balanced skin microflora is crucial for maintaining healthy normal skin function; however, changes in skin microflora are associated with skin diseases such as acne vulgaris, dandruff, and candidiasis. Lactobacilli are probiotics that possess antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria. In the present study, we assessed the potential antagonistic activity of Lactobacillus plantarum APsulloc 331261 and 331266, which were isolated from green tea (Camellia sinensis), in inhibiting the growth of bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) and fungi (Candia albicans, Malassezia globosa, and Malassezia restricta) related to skin diseases. Results: The antibiotic susceptibility of C. acnes, C. albicans, M. globosa, and M. restricta was tested using agar overlay and co-culture transwell methods to determine the antibacterial and antifungal activity of L. plantarum APsulloc 331261 and 331266. Results of the agar overlay method revealed that the two L. plantarum strains, APsulloc 331261 and 331266, inhibited the growth of C. acnes and C. albicans, respectively (zone diameters of inhibition: 20.0 ± 2.0 to 27.0 ± 3.6 mm; R values: 4.3 ± 1.8 to 5.5 ± 1.7). Moreover, the conditioned media (cell-free culture supernatants) derived from L. plantarum APsulloc 331261 and 331266 inhibited the growth of C. acnes, C. albicans, M. globosa, and M. restricta. Conclusions: These results suggest that L. plantarum APsulloc 331261 and 331266 could be used as candidate probiotics to control the balance of skin microflora.
SCUBE3 Serves as an Independent Poor Prognostic Factor in Breast Cancer
Authors: Huo Qin , He Xi , Li Zhenwei , Yang Fan , He Shengnan , Shao Ling , Hu Ye , Chen Siqi , Xie Ni
Published: December 2020

Background: Accumulating evidences indicate that the signal peptide-CUB-EGF-like domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3) plays a key role in the development and progression of many human cancers. However, the underlying mechanism and prognosis value of SCUBE3 in breast cancer are still unclear. Methods: The clinical data of 137 patients with breast cancer who underwent surgical resection in Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province were retrospectively analyzed. We first conducted a comprehensive study on the expression pattern of SCUBE3 using the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and UALCAN databases. In addition, the expression of SCUBE3 in breast tumor tissues was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The protein-protein interaction analysis and functional enrichment analysis of SCUBE3 were analyzed using the STRING and Enrichr databases. Moreover, tissue microarray (TMA) was used to analyze the relationship between SCUBE3 expression levels and clinical-pathological parameters, such as histological type, grade, the status of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2). We further supplemented and identified the above results using the UALCAN and bc-GenExMiner v4.4 databases from TCGA data. The correlation between the expression of SCUBE3 and survival was calculated by univariate Cox regression analysis to investigate whether SCUBE3 expression may be an independent prognostic factor of breast cancer. Results: We found that the expression level of SCUBE3 was significantly upregulated in breast cancer tissue compared with adjacent normal tissues. SCUBE3 expression was significantly correlated with ER (p = 0.018), PR (p = 0.015), HER2 (p = 0.039), and triple-negative status (p = 0.049) of patients with breast cancer. We further verified that the expression levels of SCUBE3 mRNA was significantly correlated with ER (p = 0.0007), PR (p = 0.0295), and triple-negative (p = 0.0024), respectively. There was no significant expression difference in the expression of SCUBE3 mRNA in age, HER2 receptor status, and nodal status (p > 0.05). In addition, the high expression of SCUBE3 was associated with relatively poor prognosis of ER- (p = 0.012), PR- (p = 0.029), HER2+ (p = 0.007). The univariate Cox regression analysis showed that the hazard ratio (HR) was 2.80 (95% CI: 1.20-6.51, p = 0.0168) in individuals with high SCUBE3 expression, and HR was increased by 1.86 (95% CI: 1.06-3.25, p = 0.0300) for per 1-point increase of SCUBE3 expression.Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that the high expression of SCUBE3 indicates poor prognosis in breast cancer. SCUBE3 expression may serve as a potential diagnostic indicator of breast cancer.
Global, Regional, and National Burden of Accidental Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, 1990–2019: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Liu Fei , Lin Xiangjie , Zhang Mao
Published: December 2020

IntroductionHealth system planning requires careful assessment of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning (ACOP) epidemiology, but data of this disease are scarce or non-existent in many countries. This article investigates the global burden of ACOP based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019) and the World Bank database.Materials and MethodsNumbers and age-standardized rates (ASR) of ACOP incidence, prevalence, deaths, Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), Years Lived with Disability (YLDs), and Years of Life Lost (YLLs) were analysed at global, regional, and national level. The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) of age-standardized rates (ASR) was calculated by generalizing the linear model with a Gaussian distribution. Age, sex, and economics parameters are included to access their internal relevance.ResultsGlobally, in 2019, there were approximately 0.97 million ACOP incidence cases (95% CI 0.66 million to 1.4 million), and 41,142 (95%UI 32957 to 45934) people died from it. Compared with 1990, the morbidity and mortality of ACOP in 2019 are on a downward trend. By sexes, from 1990 to 2019, females have a higher morbidity and lower mortality. This article also finds that the relevant parameters of ACOP are closely related to the economic parameters. This correlation enables us to evaluate the level and status of public health services in various countries.DiscussionACOP is the most common toxic disease in the world. In 2019, the number of patients who die from ACOP exceeded that of patients poisoned by all other means. In global health decision-making, especially in regions with high-middle and high SDI, more attention should be paid.ConclusionAs the population ageing in areas with High-middle SDI and High SDI increases, the potential burden of ACOP is increasing, presenting the governments with an increasing demand for acute care, rehabilitation, and support services. The results of this study can be used by the health authorities to consider the burden of ACOP that could be addressed with preventive and therapeutic measures.
Mitigation of Lead (Pb) Toxicity in Rice Cultivated with Ground Water and Waste Water by Application of Acidified Carbon
Authors: Ahmed Niaz , Ehsan Abdullah , Danish Subhan , Ali Muhammad , Fahad Shah , Irshad Inam , Taban Suleyman , Shah Anis , Datta Rahul
Published: December 2020

Toxicity induced by a higher concentration of lead (Pb) can significantly decrease plants growth, gas exchange and yield attributes. It also caused cancer in humans. Use of organic amendments especially biochar has the capability to alleviate Pb toxicity in different crops. Application of biochar can decrease the uptake Pb by roots in plants. However, high pH of thermo pyrolyzed biochar makes it unfit amendment for high pH soils. As Pb is an acute toxin and its uptake in rice is a major issue, current experiment was conducted with the aim to explore the efficacy of chemically produced acidified carbon (AC) for mitigation of Pb toxicity in rice. Leas has introduced artificially at the rate of (0, 15 and 30 mg kg-1 soil) in combination with 0, 0.5 and 1 % AC underground water (GW) and waste water irrigation (WW) in rice. Results confirmed that addition of 1% AC significantly improved plant height, number of tillers, spike length fresh and dry weights of spikes and straw, 1000 grains weight, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance over 0 % AC under GW and WW irrigations at 30 mg Pb kg-1 soil (30Pb) toxicity. A significant decrease in electrolyte leakage and plant Pb concentration by application of 0.5 and 1 % AC validated their effectiveness for mitigation of 30Pb toxicity in rice over 0 % AC under GW and WW. In conclusion, 1 % AC is effective amendment in the alleviation of Pb toxicity in rice irrigated with GW and WW at 30Pb.
To Explore the Reasonable Selection of Clavicular Hook Plate to Reduce the Occurrence of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome After Operation.
Authors: Qiao Rui , Yang Jiarui , Zhang Kun , Song Zhe
Published: December 2020

Purpose:To explore whether the existing clavicular hook plate can be reasonably selected to reduce the incidence of Subacromial impingement syndrome （SIS） and provide reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment.Methods and methods The patients with SIS admitted from March 2019 to March 2020 were selected as the experimental group, and the asymptomatic patients after operation as the control group. The hook end depth and acromion height of the hook plate used by the patients were recorded, and the difference between them was calculated.Results The difference between the depth of hook plate and the height of acromion in the experimental group was (8.06±1.15mm). In the control group, the difference between the depth of hook plate and the height of acromion was (6.78±1.82mm), and the difference was statistically significant（t=2.721，P=0.009）. The difference is greater than 0.6 mm as a grouping index to do a single factor analysis）.The difference was statistically significant（t=5.711 P=0.017）.Conclusions The occurrence of SIS after clavicular hook plate may be related to the difference between the depth of hook plate and the height of acromion. When the difference is greater than 6mm, it may be a factor affecting the occurrence of SIS. Pre-imaging measurement of acromion height can provide suggestions for selecting the type of hook plate during operation.
The Vastus Medialis obliquus and The Vastus Lateralis Muscle Atrophy is Existed in Patients with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Authors: Dong Conglei , Li Ming , Hao Kuo , Zhao Chao , Piao Kang , Lin Wei , Fan Chongyi , Niu Yingzhen , Wang Fei
Published: December 2020

Background: whether the vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) atrophy exists in patients with PFPS and whether the amount of atrophy differs between the VMO and vastus lateralis muscle (VLM) is still obscure. Materials and methods: From June 2016 to March 2019, 61 patients with PFPS were collected into the study group, and an age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) matched cohort of 61 patients with normal knees were randomly selected into the control group. All enrolled subjects had undergone computed Tomography (CT) scans in the supine position. The cross-sectional area of the VMO and VLM in the sections of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 mm above the upper pole of the patella were measured, and VMO/VLM area ratio were evaluated as well. Results: In the study group and the control group, the VMO area in the section that 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 mm above the upper pole of the patella were 732.64±306.43 mm2 and 941.66±366.83 mm2 (P<0.001), 876.32±341.47 mm2 and 1119.6±405.01 mm2 (P<0.001), 1039.31±410.21 mm2 and 1302.75±425.14 mm2 (P<0.001), 1178.26±449.10 mm2 and 1496.67±474.70 mm2 (P<0.001), 1289.78±487.78 mm2 and 1643.33±507.08 mm2 (P<0.001); the VLM area in the section that 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 mm above the upper pole of the patella were 127.61±66.74 mm2 and 192.2±152.40 mm2 (P=0.003), 183.47±85.41 mm2 and 262.55±187.98 mm2 (P=0.004), 250.66±133.70 mm2 and 352.35±291.96 mm2 (P=0.015), 326.06±139.94 mm2 and 466.27±343.11 mm2 (P=0.013), 574.19±390.00 mm2 (P=0.005); the VMO/ VLM area ratio in the section that 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 mm above the upper pole of the patella were 0.83±0.11 and 7.44±5.13 (P<0.001), 5.37±2.49 and 6.32±4.69 (P=0.168), 4.64±2.43 and 4.15±1.94 (P=0.554), 3.90±1.55 and 3.96±1.66 (P=0.434), 3.42±1.36 and 3.48±1.62 (P=0.826).Conclusion: In patients with PFPS, the VMO and VLM atrophy was existed in the section of 0-20 mm above the upper pole of the patella in comparison with normal people; and the atrophy of the VMO was more evident than that of the VLM in the section that 0-5 mm above the upper pole of the patella. These findings support the rationale for use of general quadriceps exercise combined with VMO strengthening exercise as part of rehabilitation program for patients with PFPS.
How to Achieve Faster Osteotomy Healing and Prevent Refracture after Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy?
Authors: Kang Jong woo , Cha Soo Min , Kim Sang-gyun , Choi In Cheul , Suh Dong Hun , Park Jong Woong
Published: December 2020

Background: Parallel osteotomy is essential for favorable osteotomy reduction and healing and technically challenging during diaphyseal ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO). This study aimed to evaluate the advantages of guided osteotomy for parallel osteotomy and reduction osteotomies and healing over freehand osteotomy. It also aimed to identify surgical factors affecting healing after diaphyseal USO.Methods: Between June 2005 and March 2016, 136 wrists that had undergone diaphyseal USO for ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS) were evaluated. The wrists were divided into two groups according to the osteotomy technique (Group 1: freehand osteotomy, 74 wrists; Group 2: guided osteotomy, 62 wrists). The osteotomy reduction gap and time to osteotomy healing (union and consolidation) were compared between the groups. A multiple regression test was performed to identify the surgical factors affecting healing. The cut-off length of the reduction gap to achieve osteotomy union on time and the cut-off period to decide the failure of complete consolidation were statistically calculated. Results: The baseline characteristics were not different between the two groups. The osteotomy reduction gap, time to osteotomy union, and complete consolidation were shorter in Group 2 than in Group 1 (p=0.002, <0.001, 0.002). The osteotomy reduction gap was a critical surgical factor affecting both time to osteotomy union and complete consolidation (p<0.001, <0.001). The use of a dynamic compression plate affected only the time to complete consolidation (p<0.001). The cut-off length of the osteotomy reduction gap to achieve osteotomy union on time was 0.85 mm. The cut-off period to decide the failure of complete consolidation was 23.5 months after osteotomy.Conclusions The minimal osteotomy reduction gap was the most important for timely osteotomy healing in the healthy ulna and a guided osteotomy was beneficial to reducing the osteotomy reduction gap during USO.
3D-Printing Preoperative Planning and Radius Osteotomy External Fixation for Adult Acute Plastic Bowing of the Forearm
Authors: Song Jinqi , Lu Guangyuan , Ouyang Xiahui , Huang Dinggen , Wang Xuebing , Deng Xuefeng
Published: December 2020

BackgroundAcute plastic deformation of forearm is rare in adults, current treatments have different disadvantages. This article to report a new treating to adult acute plastic bowing of the forearm. MethodsWe report one adult case which diagnosis of acute plastic bowing of the forearm, and display a new treatment to this injury, 3D-printing preoperative planning and radius osteotomy external fixation. ResultsThe case achieved full range of movement. Conclusions3D-printing preoperative planning and radius osteotomy external fixation is more effective, safe,exact and easy to conduct.
Malalignment and Distal Contact of Short Tapered Stems Could be Associated with Postoperative Thigh Pain in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Chen Zhijie , Li Bin , Chen Kaizhe , Feng Jianmin , Wang Yi , Liu Zhihong , He Chuan
Published: December 2020

Purpose Short tapered stem placement has been extensively employed in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Suboptimal fixation tends to cause postoperative complications, such as thigh pain. However, it remains unclear whether poor seating/alignment of short tapered stems contributes to thigh pain. In this study, we retrospectively examined the factors that might be associated with the thigh pain. Methods Medical records of 230 patients who had undergone THAs at our hospital were reviewed retrospectively. All patients received the same mediolateral (ML) short tapered femoral stems. The association between thigh pain and patients’ demographics, radiographic findings, or the type of fitting of the femoral stems was investigated.Results In our cohort, 68 patients (27.8%) presented with thigh pain. Among 203 type I fit patients, 62 (30.5%) developed thigh pain, while only 6 out of 43 (12.2%) type II fit patients had thigh pain, with the differences being statistically significant (x2=6.706, p=0.01). In addition, hip anteroposterior radiographs exhibited that the stem angulation (mean 2.52°), variation in angulation (mean 1.32°), and the extent of femoral stem subsidence (mean 0.29cm) were greater in patients with thigh pain than in their counterparts without thigh pain (all p<0.05). Conclusion Malalignment and improper seating of short tapered stems could be at least one of the reasons for post-THA thigh pain. The distal contact between the stem tip and medial femoral cortex might result in thigh pain. Our study suggested that distal implant contact should be avoided, and stem alignment should be meticulously performed in the placement of ML short tapered femoral stems for THA.
A Modified Oblique Incision in Hamstring Tendon Graft Harvesting During ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Zhu Biao , Li XueLei , Lou Tengteng
Published: December 2020

Background: During anterior cruciate ligament(ACL)reconstruction, different methods of harvesting hamstring tendon may lead to different degrees of injury to the inferior patellar branch of the saphenous nerve(IPBSN). Most of recent studies in the literature suggest that the classic oblique incision(COI) can reduce the incidence of IPBSN injury. We proposed a modified oblique incision(MOI) and compared it with the COI in terms of the resulting levels of injury and sensory loss and the clinical outcome.Methods: Patients with ACL injury admitted to our hospital from April 2015 to July 2019 were randomly selected and included in our study. Thirty patients underwent the COI to harvest hamstring tendons, and the other 32 patients underwent the MOI. The pin prick test was performed to detect the sensation loss at 2 weeks, 6 months and 1 year after the operation. Digital photos of the region of hypoesthesia area were taken, and then computer software (Adobe Photoshop CS6, 13.0.1) was used to calculate the area of the hypoesthesia. The length of the incision and knee joint functional score were also recorded. Results: At the final follow-up, the incidence of IPBSN injury in COI and MOI were 33.3% and 9.4%, and the areas of paresthesia were 26.4±2.4 cm2 and 9.8±3.4 cm2 respectively. There was no significant difference in the incision length or knee functional score between the two groups.Conclusion: The MOI can significantly reduce the risk of injury to the IPBSN, reduce the area of hypoesthesia and lead to high subjective satisfaction. Therefore, compared with the COI, the MOI is a better method of harvesting hamstring tendons in ACL reconstruction.
Women's Knowledge and Attitude towards Cervical Cancer Preventive Measures and associated factors In South Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, North Central Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tafere Yilkal , Jemere Tezera , Desalegn Tsion , Melak Addisu
Published: December 2020

Background

The aim of the current research was to assess women's knowledge and attitudes towards cervical cancer preventions in South Gondar zone.
Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out in South Gondar zone, Ethiopia. A total of 844 women aged 18 and above have participated in the current study. Binary and multivariable logistic models were used to assess predictors of women’s knowledge and attitude towards cervical cancer.
Results

About 66% of the women had heard about cervical cancer. The percentage of women who heard about cervical cancer was 66%. Regarding the main source of information of respondents, 75.4% were heard from health professionals. Sixty two point four percent of women knew at least one preventive measure and 82.6% of participants knew at least one symptom or sign. Among study participants, 25% and 64% had good knowledge, and favorable attitude towards cervical cancer prevention measures, respectively. Being reside in rural (AOR = .21, 95%CI; .18, .34), not attending formal education (AOR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.3, 0.75), low income (AOR = .57, 95% CI: .43, .81) and having < 4 children ((AOR = .8, 95% CI: .60–.86) were negatively associated with knowledge toward cervical cancer prevention measures
Region-specific expression of young small-scale duplications in the human central nervous system
Authors: Brohard Solène , Frouin Vincent , Meyer Vincent , Chalabi Smahane , Deleuze Jean-François , Floch Edith Le , Battail Christophe
Published: December 2020

Background: The duplication of genes is one of the main genetic mechanisms that led to the gain in complexity of biological tissue. Although the implication of duplicated gene expression in brain evolution was extensively studied through comparisons between organs, their role in the regional specialization of the adult human central nervous system has not yet been well described. Results: Our work explored intra-organ expression properties of paralogs through multiple territories of the human central nervous system (CNS) using transcriptome data generated by the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) consortium. Interestingly, we found that paralogs were associated with region-specific expression in CNS, suggesting their involvement in the differentiation of these territories. Beside the influence of gene expression level on region-specificity, we observed the contribution of both duplication age and duplication type to the CNS region-specificity of paralogs. Indeed, we found that small scale duplicated genes (SSDs) and in particular ySSDs ( SSDs younger than the 2 rounds of whole genome duplications ) were more CNS region-specific than other paralogs. Next, by studying the two paralogs of ySSD pairs, we observed that when they were region-specific, they tend to be specific to the same region more often than for other paralogs, showing the high co-expression of ySSD pairs. Extension of this analysis to families of paralogs showed that the families with co-expressed gene members (i.e. homogeneous families) were enriched in ySSDs. Furthermore, these homogeneous families tended to be region-specific families, where the majority of their gene members were specifically expressed in the same region. Conclusions: Overall, our study suggests the major involvement of ySSDs in the differentiation of human central nervous system territories. Therefore, we show the relevance of exploring region-specific expression of paralogs at the intra-organ level.
Comparison of Long-term outcomes between Lynch sydrome and sporadic colorectal cancer: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Xu Yun , Li Cong , Zheng Charlie Zhi-Lin , Zhang Yu-Qin , Guo Tian-An , Liu Fang-Qi , Xu Ye
Published: December 2020

Background
Lynch syndrome (LS) is the most common hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) syndrome. Comparison of prognosis between LS and sporadic CRC (SCRC) were rare,with conflicting results. This study aimed to compare the long-term outcomes between patients with LS and SCRC.
Methods
Between June 2008 and September 2018, a total of 47 patients were diagnosed with LS by genetic testing at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. A 1:2 propensity score matching was performed to obtain homogeneous cohorts from SCRC group. Thereafter, 94 SCRC patients were enrolled as control group. The long-term survival rates between the two groups were compared, and the prognostic factors were also analyzed.
Results
The 5-year OS rate of LS group was 97.6%, which was significantly higher than of 82.6% for SCRC group (p = 0.029). The 5-year PFS rate showed no significant differences between the two groups (78.0% for LS group vs. 70.6% for SCRC patients; p = 0.262). The 5-year TFS rates in LS group was 62.1% for LS patients, which were significantly lower than of 70.6% for SCRC group (p = 0.039). By multivariate analysis, we found that tumor progression of primary CRC and TNM staging were independent risk factors for OS.
Conclusion
LS patients have better long-term survival prognosis than SCRC patients. Strict regular follow-up monitoring, detection at earlier tumor stages, and effective treatment are key to ensuring better long-term prognosis.
Mutation Analysis of TP53 in Colorectal Cancer, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Authors: Ali Ihsan , Fayyaz Aamna , Anwar Zahid , Saif Irfan , Khan Ikram , Jahangir Muhammad , Kakakhel Mian Adnan
Published: December 2020

Background Colorectal cancer is a kind of solid tumor and third most common of cancer which leads to death. It is a heterogeneous disease characterized by genetic and epigenetic aberrations. For this purpose, a total of 50 blood samples in EDTA tubes was collected from Peshawar with complete information of patients using questionnaireResult The results of the present study indicate that the ratio of CRC in males is higher 62% than females (38%). Histopathological results indicate that moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma is 25 (50%) followed by poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma 15 (30%), Well-differentiated adenocarcinoma 8 (16%), and Metastatic adenocarcinoma 2 (4%) in 50 CRC patients. Grading distribution indicating 34% of patients were having a high grade of carcinoma while 66% had low-grade carcinoma. The nucleotide sequence of the human TP53 gene of CRC patients was aligned with the human wild-type TP53 database sequence with NC_191170 (NCBI) using CLUSTALW. After BLASTING, the mutation was found in exon 5 and exon 7 of TP53, while no mutation was found in exon 8 of TP53. That patient in which point mutation was found in exon 5 and 7 respectively showed less survival as compared to that of colorectal cancer patients having no point mutation in the TP53 gene.Conclusion The present study concluded that point mutations were found in exons 5 & 7 of the TP53 gene and patients having TP53 gene mutations shown less survival rate compared to CRC patients having no mutations.
An Investigation Into the Livelihoods Strategies of Informal Women Traders in Zimbabwe
Authors: Takaza Stella , Chitereka Chipo
Published: December 2020

This article investigated the livelihoods strategies used by various informal women traders doing business in the Hare Business Districts of the Harare Province. The study was informed by the Sustainable Livelihood Approach proffered by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency Division (SIDA, 2001) for Policy and Socio-Economic Analysis. A quantitative and qualitative research design was utilized and data was gathered through questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and direct observations during transect walks. The objectives of the study was to; identify micro-credit schemes used by the informal women traders doing business at flea markets, explore the livelihoods of microcredit schemes as pathways towards poverty eradication and finally determine possible interventions and sustainable strategies that could be used for the informal women traders. The study revealed that women informal traders engaged in diverse activities for sustainable livelihoods strategies that eradicate poverty. Numerous informal women traders face staid livelihoods challenges, resulting in them living in dire poverty. The study calls on Government and financing institutions to finance them for local empowerment as well as gain access and control of available livelihoods resources in a meaningful way. Thus comprehensive policy interventions and sustainable strategies would enable informal women traders doing business at flea markets to eradicate poverty in Zimbabwe.
Brief psychotherapy administered by non-specialised health workers to address risky substance use in inpatients with multi-drug resistant tuberculosis: A feasibility and acceptability study
Authors: Calligaro Gregory , De Wit Zani , Cirota Jacqui , Orrell Catherine , Myers Bronwyn , Decker Sebastian , Stein Dan , Sorsdahl Katherine , Dawson Rodney
Published: December 2020

Background:Only 55% of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) cases worldwide complete treatment, with problem substance use a risk for default and treatment failure. Nevertheless, there is little research on psychotherapeutic interventions for reducing substance use among MDR-TB patients in general, and on their delivery by non-specialist health workers in particular.Objectives:To explore the feasibility and acceptability of a non-specialist health worker-delivered 4-session brief motivational interviewing and relapse prevention (MI-RP) intervention for problem substance use and to obtain preliminary data on the effects of this intervention on substance use severity, depressive symptoms, psychological distress and functional impairment at 3 months after hospital discharge.Methods:Between December 2015 and October 2016, consenting MDR-TB patients admitted to Brewelskloof Hospital who screened at moderate to severe risk for substance-related problems on the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) were enrolled, and a baseline questionnaire administered. In the four weeks prior to planned discharge, trained counsellors delivered the MI-RP intervention. The baseline questionnaire was re-administered three-months post-discharge and qualitative interviews were conducted with a randomly selected sample of participants (n=10).Results:Sixty patients were screened: 40 (66%) met inclusion criteria of which 39 (98%) were enrolled. Of the enrolled patients, 26 (67%) completed the counselling sessions and the final assessment. Qualitative interviews revealed participants’ perceptions of the value of the intervention. From baseline to follow-up, patients reported reductions in substance use severity, symptoms of depression, distress and functional impairment.Conclusion:In this feasibility study, participant retention in the study was moderate. We found preliminary evidence supporting the benefits of the intervention for reducing substance use and symptoms of psychological distress, supported by qualitative reports of patient experiences. Randomised studies are needed to demonstrate efficacy of this intervention before considering potential for wider implementation.Trial registration: South African National Clinical Trials Register (DOH-27-0315-5007) on 01/04/2015 (http://www.sanctr.gov.za).
Enzyme additives influence bacterial communities of Medicago sativa silage as determined by Illumina sequencing
Authors: hu zongfu , Ma Deying , Niu huaxin , Chang Jie , Yu Jianhua , Tong Qing , Li Shuguo
Published: December 2020

The goal of the present study was to evaluate the effects of enzymes (cellulase combined with galactosidase) and their combination with Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) on bacterial diversity in alfalfa silages using high-throughput sequencing. Alfalfa forages were treated with or without cellulase + ɑ-galactosidase (CEGA), cellulase + LP (CELP), or ɑ-galactosidase + LP (GALP). After 56 days of ensiling, all treated silages exhibited improved fermentation quality, as reflected by decreased pH, ammonium-N and increased lactic acid levels compared to the control silage (P < 0.05). Enzymatic treatment improved nutrient value by increasing crude protein levels and decreasing neutral detergent fibre (NDF) levels (P < 0.05). Silage treatment significantly altered the bacterial community, as determined by PCoA (P < 0.05). Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) dominated the bacterial community of the treated silage after ensiling. The dominant bacteria changed from Garciella, Enterococcus, Lactobacillus and Pediococcus in the control silage to Lactobacillus and Pediococcus in the CEGA silage and Lactobacillus in the CELP and GALP silages. Collectively, these results suggest that treatment with both enzymes alone and in combination with inoculants greatly increased the abundance of LAB, with Enterococcus, Lactobacillus and Pediococcus observed in the silage treated with enzymes alone (CEGA) and Lactobacillus observed in the silage treated with a combination of enzymes and inoculants (CELP and GALP).