bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MRI radiomics predicts progression-free survival in prostate cancer
Authors: Jia Yushan , Quan Shuai , Ren Jialiang , Wu Hui , Liu Aishi , Gao Yang , Hao Fene , Yang Zhenxing , Zhang Tong , Hu He
Published: August 2022

Objective

To assess the predictive value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiomics for progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

191 patients with prostate cancer confirmed by puncture biopsy or surgical pathology were included in this retrospective study, including 133 in the training group and 58 in the validation group. All patients underwent T2WI and DWI serial scans. Three radiomics models were constructed using univariate logistic regression and Gradient Boosting Decision Tree(GBDT) for feature screening, followed by Cox risk regression to construct a mixed model combining radiomics features and clinicopathological risk factors and to draw a nomogram. The performance of the models was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), calibration curve and decision curve analysis. The Kaplan-Meier method was applied for survival analysis.

Results

Compared with the radiomics model, the hybrid model consisting of a combination of radiomics features and clinical data performed the best in predicting PFS in PCa patients, with AUCs of 0.926 and 0.917 in the training and validation groups, respectively. Decision curve analysis showed that the radiomics nomogram had good clinical application and the calibration curve proved to have good stability. Survival curves showed that PFS was shorter in the high-risk group than in the low-risk group.

Conclusion

The hybrid model constructed from radiomics and clinical data showed excellent performance in predicting PFS in prostate cancer patients. The nomogram provides a non-invasive diagnostic tool for risk stratification of clinical patients.
An emerging prognosis prediction model for multiple myeloma: Hypoxia-immune related microenvironmental gene signature
Authors: Yu Zhengyu , Qiu Bingquan , Li Linfeng , Xu Jing , Zhou Hui , Niu Ting
Published: August 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM), a hematologic malignancy, is characterized by malignant plasma cells clonal proliferation. Many evidences indicated the indirect interaction between hypoxic environment and immune state in MM tumorigenesis, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. MM-related datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The R packages were applied for screening protective differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and risk DEGs. The signature was constructed based the most prognostic gene signature in the training and assessed in the validation cohorts. The immune cell infiltration, the expression of the HLA family and immune checkpoint genes inside the low- and high-risk groups were compared to determine the differences in immune infiltration and immunotherapy responses. Moreover, the expression of HLA families and immune checkpoints inside the low- and high-risk groups was markedly disordered. The results indicated hypoxia- and immune-related genes, including CHRDL1, DDIT4, DNTT, FAM133A, MYB, PRR15, QTRT1, and ZNF275, were identified and used to construct a prognostic signature. Role of DDIT4 in multiple myeloma was confirmed in vivo and in vitro. DDIT4 knockdown inhibited MM cell viability, migration and invasion potential as well as promoted myeloma cells apoptosis under hypoxia. Taken together, our study may contribute to the treatment and prognosis prediction of MM.
Case report: Glucose 6-phosphate-isomerase deficiency combine with avascular necrosis of bilateral femoral head
Authors: Song Zhenqi , Wang Kongjian , Arthur Djandan Tadum , Tang Zhongwen , Xiang Feng , Wen Jie , Xiao Sheng
Published: August 2022

Background

Glucose 6-phosphate-isomerase deficiency (GPI) is an uncommon autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by chronic asphoric hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and hepatospleenomegaly of varying degrees. Avascular necrosis of the femoral head in children may be caused by Legg-calve-perthes disease or hematological diseases. However, to date, there is no literature reporting on femoral head avascular necrosis as a complication of GPI.

Case presentation

Herein we report a 6-year-old child admitted with no pain and abnormal gait in both lower extremities for 3 years, the patient received a genetic inspection and radiology test. Full-exon detection and Sanger sequencing verification were performed on the children and their parents C. 553T>A homozygous missense mutation (NM_ 001289790, F 185 I) was found in exon 6 of the GPI gene, which was inherited from parents. The radiology test showed avascular necrosis of the bilateral femoral head. The patient received traction and wore a spica splint every night and non-weight bearing hip joint rehabilitation every day for 12 months, after which, the gait of the femoral head of this patient improved significantly, and follow up radiation results showed the area of avascular necrosis of the femoral head had decreased.

Conclusion

Careful investigation of GPI children with abnormal gait is recommended to avoid misdiagnosis, GPI combined with avascular necrosis of the femoral head should be considered as a differential diagnosis in GPI children with abnormal gait.
The effects of the home-based exercise during COVID-19 school closure on the physical fitness of preschool children in China
Authors: Liang Zhenwen , Deng Cheng , Li Dan , Lo Wai Leung Ambrose , Yu Qiuhua , Chen Zhuoming
Published: August 2022

Background

Social distancing and school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic reduced the physical activities of the preschool children living in China. However, the effects of home-based exercise on the physical fitness of Chinese preschool children during COVID-19 school closures are still unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of home-based exercise on the physical fitness of Chinese preschool children during COVID-19 school closure.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, data from 1,608 Chinese preschool children (aged 3–5.5 years) in a second-tier city of Guangdong Province of China (Zhongshan city) were extracted from three successive National Physical Fitness Measurement (NPFM) from 2019 to 2021. NPFM consists of weight, height, and six subtests of physical fitness including 10-m shuttle run test (SRT), standing long jump (SLJ), balance beam walking (BBW), sit-and-reach (SR), tennis throwing (TT), and double-leg timed hop (DTH) tests. The change differences or change ratios of all the items in NPFM between any two successive years from 2019 to 2021 were compared. The exercise profiles about home-based and outdoor exercise before, during, and after COVID-19 school closure were obtained from 185 preschool childrenviaretrospective telephone survey.

Results

Between 2019 and 2021, 1,608 preschool children were included in this study. We observed larger changes in SLJ, SR, TT, and DTH tests during school closure than after school closure. But the children showed lower reduction rates in the completion time of SRT and BBW. During school closure, higher change ratios in SLJ and TT were observed in the children primarily participating in home-based exercise than those primarily participating in outdoor exercise. However, no statistical differences were observed in the changes in SRT and BBW between home-based and outdoor training groups.

Conclusion

The home-based exercise program might be an alternative approach to improve the physical fitness of preschool children during COVID-19 school closure, but could not be beneficial to speed-agility and balance functions. A specific guideline geared toward a home-based exercise program during the COVID-19 outbreak is highly needed.
Effects of message framing, psychological distance, and risk perception on exercise attitude in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Wang Xiaohua , Duan Xiyan , Li Shichen , Bu Te
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Health communication campaign that promotes physical activity may aid in reducing the prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity in China. This study examined the effects of message framing and psychological distance on the exercise attitude of Chinese adolescents, along with the interactive role of risk perception.

Methods

Participants in this study were between 10 and 19 years of age. Three experiments were conducted independently. In experiment 1, 76 participants were recruited to assess the effectiveness of message manipulation. In experiment 2, 40 participants were recruited to compare the effects of gain- and loss-framed messages on the exercise attitude. In experiment 3, 37 participants were recruited to explore the interaction between message framing (gain vs. loss), temporal distance (proximal vs. distal), and risk perception (low vs. high) on the exercise attitude. Exercise attitude and risk perception were assessed by Likert-type questionnaires.

Results

There was a significant main effect of message framing (P< 0.05), with the gain-framed message inducing a stronger exercise attitude than the loss-framed message. There was a significant main effect of temporal distance (P< 0.05), with the proximal temporal distance condition inducing a stronger exercise attitude than the distal temporal distance condition. In addition, a significant interaction (P< 0.05) was observed, and the perception of obesity-related risk was a crucial moderator of the message framing and temporal distance. Regardless of whether they were exposed to a gain- or loss-framed message, the proximal temporal distance condition induced a stronger exercise attitude in participants with a high risk perception (P< 0.05).

Conclusion

Messages promoting exercise that are framed as having a near-future gain effect and that emphasize disease risks are effective in motivating adolescents to engage in physical activity.
Efficacy and safety of fenofibrate add-on therapy in patients with primary biliary cholangitis refractory to ursodeoxycholic acid: A retrospective study and updated meta-analysis
Authors: Guoyun Xuan , Dawei Ding , Ning Liu , Yinan Hu , Fangfang Yang , Siyuan Tian , Hao Sun , Jiaqi Yang , Ang Xu , Guanya Guo , Xi Chen , Yulong Shang , Ying Han
Published: August 2022

Background: Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is currently used for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), but some people do not respond well to UDCA. It reported that the combination of fenofibrate and UDCA can improve the clinical indices in these patients. However, more high-quality evidence is needed to improve guideline recommendations.

Methods: Through an updated meta-analysis, studies included were valued by the Cochrane Evaluation Manual and Robins-I. Biochemical and clinical indicator changes in UDCA-refractory PBC patients receiving combination therapy were analyzed by Revman 5.42. Then, we explored the influence of fenofibrate dose and the effectiveness and safety of long-term application by retrospective cohort study.

Results: Our meta-analysis included nine publications with a total of 389 patients, including 216 treated with UDCA alone and 173 who received combination therapy. The meta-analysis showed that combination therapy was more effective than UDCA monotherapy in decreasing biochemical parameters, such as ALP, GGT, IgM, and TG. However, the occurrence of pruritus and adverse events was slightly higher with combination therapy than with UDCA monotherapy. A total of 156 patients were included in our cohort study: 68 patients underwent UDCA monotherapy, and 88 patients underwent combination therapy. Among UDCA-refractory patients, fenofibrate add-on therapy significantly improved the ALP normalization rate.

Conclusion: The combination of fenofibrate and UDCA can decrease biochemical parameters, of UDCA-refractory PBC patient. Furthermore, the efficacy and safety of long-term combination therapy were also confirmed in our cohort study.
The endophytic fungus Penicillium oxalicum isolated from Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort possesses DNA damage-protecting potential and increases stress resistance properties in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Tang Zizhong , Qin Yihan , Wang Yueyu , Lin Wenjie , Wang Qing , Shen Nayu , Xiao Yirong , Chen Hong , Chen Hui , Bu Tongliang , Li Qingfeng , Yao Huipeng , Feng Shiling , Ding Chunbang
Published: August 2022

The chemical composition and antioxidant activity of extracts (POE) of Penicillium oxalate isolated from Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort have been investigated. However, the biological activity of POE is limited, and its antioxidant, stress resistance and DNA protection effects in vivo are unclear. The current study aims to explore the beneficial effects of POE on DNA damage protection in pBR322 plasmid and lymphocytes and stress resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans. The results showed that POE increased the survival rate of C. elegans under 35°C, UV and H2O2 stress, attenuated ROS and MDA accumulation, and enhanced the activity of some important enzymes (SOD, CTA, and GSH-PX). In addition, the POE-mediated stress resistance involved the upregulation of the expression of the sod-3, sod-5, gst-4, ctl-1, ctl-2, daf-16, hsp-16.1, hsp-16.2, and hsf-1 genes and acted dependently on daf-16 and hsf-1 rather than skn-1. Moreover, POE also reduced lipofuscin levels, but did not prolong the lifespan or damage the growth, reproduction and locomotion of C. elegans. Furthermore, POE showed a protective effect against DNA scission in the pBR322 plasmid and lymphocytes. These results suggested that P. oxalate extracts have significant anti-stress and DNA protection potential and could be potential drug candidates in the pharmaceutical field, thus greatly broadening the understanding of the biological effects of the endophytic fungus P. oxalate.
Modeling Approaches for Gain, Noise and Time Response of Avalanche Photodiodes for X-Rays Detection
Authors: Pilotto A. , Antonelli M. , Arfelli F. , Biasiol G. , Cautero G. , Cautero M. , Colja M. , Driussi F. , Esseni D. , Menk R.H. , Nichetti C. , Rosset F. , Selmi L. , Steinhartova T. , Palestri P.
Published: August 2022

We report on a suite of modeling approaches for the optimization of Avalanche Photodiodes for X-rays detection. Gain and excess noise are computed efficiently using a non-local/history dependent model that has been validated against full-band Monte Carlo simulations. The (stochastic) response of the detector to photon pulses is computed using an improved Random-Path-Length algorithm. As case studies, we consider diodes consisting of AlGaAs/GaAs multi-layers with separated absorption and multiplication regions. A superlattice creating a staircase conduction band structure is employed in the multiplication region to keep the multiplication noise low. Gain and excess noise have been measured in devices fabricated with such structure and successfully compared with the developed models.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation to augment lower limb exercise and mobility in individuals with spastic cerebral palsy: A scoping review
Authors: Greve Kelly R. , Joseph Christopher F. , Berry Blake E. , Schadl Kornel , Rose Jessica
Published: August 2022

Background: Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) is an emerging assistive technology applied through surface or implanted electrodes to augment skeletal muscle contraction. NMES has the potential to improve function while reducing the neuromuscular impairments of spastic cerebral palsy (CP). This scoping review examines the application of NMES to augment lower extremity exercises for individuals with spastic CP and reports the effects of NMES on neuromuscular impairments and function in spastic CP, to provide a foundation of knowledge to guide research and development of more effective treatment.

Methods: A literature review of Scopus, Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched from 2001 to 2 November 2021 with identified inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results: Out of 168 publications identified, 33 articles were included. Articles on three NMES applications were identified, including NMES-assisted strengthening, NMES-assisted gait, and NMES for spasticity reduction. NMES-assisted strengthening included the use of therapeutic exercises and cycling. NMES-assisted gait included the use of NMES to improve gait patterns. NMES-spasticity reduction included the use of transcutaneous electrical stimulation or NMES to decrease tone. Thirteen studies investigated NMES-assisted strengthening, eleven investigated therapeutic exercise and demonstrated significant improvements in muscle structure, strength, gross motor skills, walking speed, and functional mobility; three studies investigated NMES-assisted cycling and demonstrated improved gross motor skills and walking distance or speed. Eleven studies investigated NMES-assisted gait and demonstrated improved muscle structure, strength, selective motor control, gross motor skills, and gait mechanics. Seven studies investigated NMES for spasticity reduction, and five of the seven studies demonstrated reduced spasticity.

Conclusion: A growing body of evidence supports the use of NMES-assisted strengthening, NMES-assisted gait, and NMES for spasticity reduction to improve functional mobility for individuals with spastic CP. Evidence for NMES to augment exercise in individuals with spastic CP remains limited. NMES protocols and parameters require further clarity to translate knowledge to clinicians. Future research should be completed to provide richer evidence to transition to more robust clinical practice.
Quantitative trait loci identification and breeding value estimation of grain weight-related traits based on a new wheat 50K single nucleotide polymorphism array-derived genetic map
Authors: Liu Xiaofeng , Xu Zhibin , Feng Bo , Zhou Qiang , Ji Guangsi , Guo Shaodan , Liao Simin , Lin Dian , Fan Xiaoli , Wang Tao
Published: August 2022

Mining novel and less utilized thousand grain weight (TGW) related genes are useful for improving wheat yield. In this study, a recombinant inbred line population from a cross between Zhongkemai 138 (ZKM138, high TGW) and Chuanmai 44 (CM44, low TGW) was used to construct a new Wheat 50K SNP array-derived genetic map that spanned 1,936.59 cM and contained 4, 139 markers. Based on this map, ninety-one quantitative trait loci (QTL) were detected for eight grain-related traits in six environments. Among 58 QTLs, whose superior alleles were contributed by ZKM138, QTgw.cib-6A was a noticeable major stable QTL and was also highlighted by bulked segregant analysis with RNA sequencing (BSR-Seq). It had a pyramiding effect on TGW enhancement but no significant trade-off effect on grain number per spike or tiller number, with two other QTLs (QTgw.cib-2A.2 and QTgw.cib-6D), possibly explaining the excellent grain performance of ZKM138. After comparison with known loci, QTgw.cib-6A was deduced to be a novel locus that differed from nearby TaGW2 and TaBT1. Seven simple sequence repeat (SSR) and thirty-nine kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers were finally developed to narrow the candidate interval of QTgw.cib-6A to 4.1 Mb. Only six genes in this interval were regarded as the most likely candidate genes. QTgw.cib-6A was further validated in different genetic backgrounds and presented 88.6% transmissibility of the ZKM138-genotype and a 16.4% increase of TGW in ZKM138 derivatives. And the geographic pattern of this locus revealed that its superior allele is present in only 6.47% of 433 Chinese modern wheat varieties, indicating its potential contribution to further high-yield breeding.
The 2018 public consultation on standardized packaging in Singapore: Analysis of policy actors' submissions
Authors: Amul Gianna Gayle Herrera
Published: August 2022

After a public consultation in 2018, Singapore implemented standardized tobacco packaging as part of its portfolio of tobacco control policies in 2020, in compliance with Article 11 guidelines for implementing the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. This study analyzed policy actors in opposition to standardized packaging in Singapore and their submissions to the public consultation. Policy actors were profiled, and their arguments were then coded and compared across submissions. Descriptive results were then summarized in a narrative synthesis. In total, 79 submissions were considered for final analysis that opposed plain packaging in Singapore. Thematic analysis shows that transnational tobacco companies and their subsidiaries in Singapore, along with a variety of policy actors opposed to the standardized packaging policy, have significant similarities in arguments, often with identical statements. Industry tactics included framing tobacco as a trade and investment issue; utilizing trade barriers, intellectual property, and investment rights; pursuing litigation or threat of litigation; mobilizing third-party support and citing policy failure. This study provides evidence that further contributes to the growing literature on commercial determinants of health particularly industry tactics and, in this case, where the tobacco industry and its local and global allies, utilize to counter evidence-based tobacco control measures.
Acute effects of real and imagined endurance exercise on sustained attention performance
Authors: Wieland Björn , Fleddermann Marie-Therese , Zentgraf Karen
Published: August 2022

This study investigated acute effects of real and imagined endurance exercise on sustained attention performance in healthy young adults in order to shed light on the action mechanisms underlying changes in cognitive functioning. The neural similarities between both imagined and physically performed movements reveal that imagery induces transient hypofrontality, whereas real exercise reflects both transient hypofrontality effects and the global release of signaling factors (e.g., BDNF or serotonin) due to muscle contraction and the accompanying sensory feedback. We hypothesized improved cognitive functioning after both interventions (imagery and physical endurance exercise) with greater improvements for real exercise because it targets both mechanisms. Fifty-three sport science students completed two 25-min sessions of moderate endurance exercise in either a motor imagery modality or an executed bodily activity within the framework of an order-balanced crossover study. Assessments for sustained attention performance (d2-R) were performed before and after each endurance exercise condition. Statistical results showed improvements for both groups over time, which can mostly be explained by retest effects. However, we observed a significant interaction effect between group and time, F(1.6, 81.9) = 3.64, p = 0.04, η2 = 0.07, with higher increases in the first session in case physical endurance exercise was performed compared to motor imagery exercise, t(51) = −2.71, p = 0.09, d = 0.75. This might suggest that the release of signaling factors due to muscle contractions with sensory feedback processing is an additional mediating mechanism alongside motor-related transient hypofrontality that improves cognitive performance.
Impact of union practices on labor relations in China: Institutional trust as a moderator
Authors: Li Yuanling , Dai Zhongliang , Hu Xiao
Published: August 2022

The particularities of Chinese union practices in the private sector and their impacts on the labor relations climate have raised much controversy. This paper presents the findings of a study that analyzed data from 926 enterprises in Chongqing, China, through the lens of institutional trust. The study was designed to examine the influence of union practices on the labor relations climate at the enterprise level. Particular attention was paid to the possible moderator effect that both employee and management trust in unions had on the labor relations climate. We found that employee–union trust positively moderated the impact of union practice on the labor relations climate. However, if management–union trust exceeded employee–union trust, management–union trust weakened the moderator effect of employee–union trust. In other words, management–union trust negatively moderated employee–union trust. This article is organized as follows. In section “Introduction,” we introduce the institutions Chinese unions operate in, especially regarding disputes over the effects on the labor relations climate. In section ‘Theory and hypotheses,” we review the literature and develop the hypotheses. In section “Materials and methods”, we describe the data and method, and in section “Results,” we present the results of the model. Finally, in section “Discussion,” we discuss the implications for China’s union development and note the limitations of the study.
Prevalence of depression and its associated factors among patients with confirmed COVID-19 in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alqurashi Eid , Aldobyany Ahmad , Touman Abdelfattah , Alqahtani Abdullah , Alsaggaf Rajaa , Alnashiwaaty Omar , Ghaleb Nabil , Mabar Hanan , Albanna Amr S.
Published: August 2022

Background

In early December 2019, a cluster of acute pneumonia of viral etiology had been identified in Wuhan, China. Later on, it has been named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing a worldwide pandemic. This pandemic triggered unprecedented health-related psychiatric sequalae. We aim in this study to evaluate the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among confirmed patients with COVID-19.

Methodology

This is a cross-sectional study, we included adult patients more than 18 years old who have been diagnosed with PCR-confirmed COVID-19 and managed in a hospital, home, or hotel. A self-administered online questionnaire based on Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) Quick Depression Assessment questionnaire was used.

Results

A total of 143 subjects completed the PHQ-9 questionnaire. The prevalence of moderate to severe depression was 34%. Prevalence of depression was positively associated with the female gender (p-value = 0.013). Location of COVID-19 management and financial status did not affect the prevalence of depression.

Conclusion

The prevalence of depression among patients with COVID-19 is high, which underscores the importance of active screening and management of depression in this population.
The effectiveness of fixed speed cameras on Iranian taxi drivers: An evaluation of the influential factors
Authors: Malekpour Mohammad-Reza , Azadnajafabad Sina , Rezazadeh-Khadem Sahba , Bhalla Kavi , Ghasemi Erfan , Heydari Seyed Taghai , Ghamari Seyyed-Hadi , Abbasi-Kangevari Mohsen , Rezaei Nazila , Manian Mahmoud , Shahraz Saeid , Rezaei Negar , Lankarani Kamran B. , Farzadfar Farshad
Published: August 2022

Background

The adherence to speed limits can reduce deaths associated with road traffic injuries (RTIs) by more than a quarter. This study aimed to evaluate the effective factors on the speeding behavior of Iranian taxi drivers around fixed speed cameras.

Method

Telematics devices used in this study collected the location and speed of the vehicles. The units of analysis in this study were trips per camera, including 2.5 km before and after each camera. Linear regression analysis was used to identify kangaroo driving (KD), defined as trips with a significant V-shape in speed distribution around the camera. In the clustered camera zones, cameras were placed at regular intervals of approximately 3.5 km.

Findings

A total of 93,160 trips were recorded from 13,857,443 data points. There was an inverse association between drivers' age and KD with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.98 (95% confidence interval: 0.98–0.98). The intercity trips had a substantially higher probability of KD than urban trips (OR: 4.94 [4.73–5.16]). The tendency of drivers toward KD during the daylight hours vs. nighttime was significant for both urban (OR: 1.15 [1.06–1.25]) and intercity (OR: 1.18 [1.14–1.22]) trips. The 4 −8 a.m. period had the highest chance of KD in both urban (10.71% [7.41–14.53]) and intercity (44.13% [41.18–47.09]) trips. There was a significant decrease in the odds of KD inside the clustered camera zones (OR: 0.22 [0.20–0.25]).

Conclusion

The heterogeneous occurrence of KD in different locations and times indicates the necessity of evidence-based decision-making in urban planning to improve safe driving behaviors. The lower occurrence of KD in clustered camera zones could be a practical key to the effective control of speeding behaviors by helping in the efficient placement of cameras through sustainable development of cities and roads.
Dietary copper intake and the prevalence of kidney stones among adult in the United States: A propensity score matching study
Authors: Zhu Weidong , Wang Chunying , Wu Jianping , Chen Shuqiu , Mao Weipu , Chen Yu , Chen Ming
Published: August 2022

Background

Trace metals are essential trace elements for the human body, but insufficient or excessive levels of metal ions can lead to the development of disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between dietary intake of copper and the prevalence of kidney stones in U.S. adult population.

Methods

We included data on dietary intake of trace metals from 28,623 adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database between 2007 and 2018. Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) dose-response curves were used to explore the association between trace metals and kidney stones, and 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was performed between the stone formers and non-stone formers to test the validity of the results.

Results

Dose-response curves showed a non-linear negative association between dietary copper intake and kidney stones, and an increase in copper intake reduced the risk of kidney stones. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for kidney stones in each quartile of copper intake compared to the lowest quartile were 0.905 (0.808–1.011, p = 0.075), 0.880 (0.785–0.987, p = 0.028) and 0.853 (0.756–0.959, p = 0.009). In addition, similar conclusions were reached after analysis of PSM in the stone formers and non-stone formers groups.

Conclusion

Dietary copper intake was negatively and non-linearly correlated with kidney stones, which is worthy of further research and application in clinical practice.
Is physician online information sharing always beneficial to patient education? An attention perspective
Authors: Guo Feng , Zhou Apan , Chang Wenhao , Sun Xinru , Zou Bo
Published: August 2022

Aims

With the development of information technology, online health platforms and physician online information sharing play an important role in public health management and patient education. Is physician online information sharing always beneficial to patient education? From the attention perspective, this study aims to explore how physician online information sharing influences patient education, considering the contingent roles of physician online reputation and offline expertise.

Methods

A 6-month panel data of 61,566 physician-month observations from an online health platform in China was used to tested the proposed hypotheses. Considering the inefficiency and estimated bias of the ordinary least squares regression model, this study conducted the fixed models to test the direct and moderating effects.

Results

The results indicate that physician online information sharing is positively related to potential patient education, while the relationship between physician online information sharing and realized patient education is an inverted U-shape. Physician online reputation enhances the positive relationship between physician online information sharing and potential patient education, but physician offline expertise weakens the abovementioned relationship. In addition, physician offline expertise flattens the curvilinear effect of physician online information sharing on realized patient education.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the literature about attention theory and information sharing for patient education, and provides implications for practice.
An exploration of treatment seeking behavior of women experienced infertility and need for services in rural India
Authors: Patra Shraboni , Unisa Sayeed
Published: August 2022

Background

To make informed decisions on fertility treatment, couples need to understand the treatment options available to them. A wide range of treatment options is available from the traditional and biomedical service providers in India. There is a dearth of research to find out factors that influence the treatment-seeking behavior of couples, particularly in rural areas.

Objectives

The study aimed to document the treatment-seeking behavior of women for their infertility problems. Further, the research focused on the socio-economic determinants affecting allopathic treatment-seeking of women and the services needed for couples experiencing infertility in rural India.

Methods

The study is cross-sectional. Primary data were collected from the two high infertility prevalence districts. Complete mapping and listing were carried out to identify the eligible respondents. A total of 159 ever-married women (20–49 years) out of 172 identified women were interviewed. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results

Among 159 interviewed women, only three did not seek any kind of treatment. Of the 156 women, 63, 65, and 28 women (mutually exclusive) received first, second and third-order treatment, respectively. The number of women decreased in the succeeding phases of infertility. Women aged above 35 years, were significantly less (OR = 0.310,p< 0.05) compared to women aged below 30 years to receive allopathic treatment. The use of allopathic treatment was significantly three times higher among women who were educated (OR = 3.712,p< 0.01) and two times higher among those who were exposed (OR = 2.217,p< 0.5) to media. Further, for those who had felt the treatment was necessary, about 30, 44, 10, and 19% mentioned that due to unaffordability, inaccessibility, or inconveniences they couldn't consult allopathic treatment.

Conclusions

Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment play important role in infertility management. Women who are more educated and are exposed to media tend to consult allopathic treatment. Similarly, time and money spent on care vary significantly and independently by type of treatment and socioeconomic factors. There is a need for mandatory insurance coverage for infertility treatment enacted by the state government. In addition to the public services, the private sector and the traditional healers are both important alternative sources of first help.
Physical activity across days of week, video games, and laptop use are more likely to influence weight gain among Saudi Youth
Authors: Alibrahim Mohammed Shaab
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent and prevalence of daily PA and the sedentary behavior during inactive spare-time among young Saudis and their effect on overweight and obesity.

Methods

A total of 357 students completed all stages of this study. They included 282 boys aged 11.95 ± 0.73 years (213 children aged 11.62 ± 0.506 years and 69 adolescents aged 13.16 ± 0.373 years) and 75 girls (16 children aged 11.94 ± 0.236 years and 59 adolescents aged 13.47 ± 0.626 years). For each participant, height and weight were measured, and BMI was calculated. A questionnaire asking about daily PA and sedentary habits during the previous 7 days was also used. Multiple comparisons were performed to test for differences between groups by sex and age category, and stepwise multiple regression analysis was used to determine which variables significantly affected BMI.

Results

The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 17.02 and 28.37% in boys and 9.33 and 0% in girls, respectively. The patterns of PA were changing within elements and between sexes. Both groups of boys were more active than girls during breakfast and lunch periods (p < 0.001 for all). A significant difference in favor of boys was also observed between the two groups of boys and the group of adolescent girls regarding after-school physical activity (p < 0.05 for all). Prepubescent boys reported being generally less active during the previous 7 days than their female counterparts and adolescent peers. Sedentary behaviors did not differ between all groups. Playing video games and using laptops were the parameters significantly associated with BMI.

Conclusions

This study noted that the prevalence of overweight and obesity was more pronounced in boys than in girls. However, boys were more active but had the same degree of sedentary behavior as girls. Physical activity across the days of weekly, video games, and laptop use were the parameters that most affected BMI.
Comparisons of economic thresholds for Asian citrus psyllid management suggest a revised approach to reduce management costs and improve yield
Authors: Chen Xue Dong , Stockton Dara , Gossett Hunter , Qureshi Jawwad A. , Ibanez Freddy , Pelz-Stelinski Kirsten S. , Stelinski Lukasz L.
Published: August 2022

Huanglongbing (HLB) or citrus greening disease is transmitted by the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama. Vector control is considered a basic component of HLB management even under high disease incidence scenarios. While vector management heavily relies on the application of synthetic chemical sprays, overuse of insecticides raises several concerns including insecticide resistance, environmental impacts, and secondary pest outbreaks. The present study aims to compare the effects of three different economic thresholds (ET-0.2, 0.5, 1.0) and one calendar-based application schedule on the incidence of D. citri and beneficial species in plots of commercially grown citrus, as well as end-of-season yield and overall management costs. The results suggest that reducing spray frequency from eight to as few as three sprays per year had little effect on counts of pest and beneficial insects in the field. The numbers of D. citri and that of a secondary weevil pest were similar between plots treated with the calendar-based spray plots and plots managed with the ET-1.0. Furthermore, spider numbers were higher in the ET-1.0 plots, while ant numbers were lower compared with calendar sprayed plots. Management input costs were lower under economic thresholds (ET-0.5–ET-1.0) than with monthly calendar-based sprays, while yield losses were only slightly greater in the lower threshold of 0.2 mean psyllids per tap than with calendar sprays. Overall, management savings of more than 100% made up for this difference. Together, these results suggest that implementing a spray program of rotated chemistries based on an economic threshold of 0.5–1.0 adult psyllids per stem tap could provide both economic and ecological benefits. We discuss the implications of such an approach in the context of a young citrus tree protection program and the greater goals of sustainable citrus production under HLB.
Prognostic significance of the systemic immune inflammation index in patients with metastatic and unresectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Han Rongshuang , Tian Zibin , Jiang Yueping , Guan Ge , Wang Xiaowei , Sun Xueguo , Yu Yanan , Jing Xue
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Systemic inflammatory markers may be predictors of the survival rate of patients with pancreatic cancer (PC). The aim of this work was to investigate the prognostic value of markers, mainly the systemic immune inflammation index (SII), in patients with metastatic and unresectable PC and to explore the relationship between markers and liver metastasis.

Methods

Records of patients with metastatic and unresectable PC at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University from January 2000 to December 2019 and who were followed until December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical data and laboratory indexes were collected, and cut-off values for inflammatory markers were determined using median values. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze the prognostic value of the markers through univariate and multivariate survival analysis.

Results

All 253 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 102 (42.0%) patients had liver metastasis. The patients were divided into a high SII group and a low SII group, and the cut-off value was 533. In the multivariate analysis, high SII (HR = 2.151; p < 0.001), chemotherapy (HR = 0.546; p < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (HR = 4.053; p < 0.001), and distant metastasis (HR = 1.725; p = 0.001) were independent risk markers of overall survival (OS). The level of markers, mainly SII, PLR and NLR, were higher in patients with liver metastasis.

Conclusions

A high level of SII is an independent risk factor for short overall survival of patients with metastatic and unresectable PC. Patients with a high level of the inflammatory markers SII, PLR, and NLR, may be more prone to early liver metastasis.
Elective transfemoral amputation and simultaneous implantation of a transcutaneous osseointegrated prosthesis stem as salvage treatment after knee joint arthrodesis with poor function: A case report
Authors: Krause Katharina , Richter Katherina , Beyer Thomas , Aschoff Horst Heinrich , Fischer Dagmar-Christiane , Mittlmeier Thomas
Published: August 2022

Background

Surgical reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament ruptures is a well-established procedure, and although it is for the vast majority of patients without severe complications, total knee joint arthroplasty, arthrodesis of the knee, and finally transfemoral amputation have to be considered in the worst-case scenario.

The case

We report a case of a patient with a 13-year history of recurrent failure after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. She claimed she had severely impaired mobility secondary to a knee joint arthrodesis via an Ilizarov circular frame 2 years ago and chronic immobilizing pain, making a permanent medication with opioids necessary. She was aware of the therapeutic options and asked for transfemoral amputation and concomitant supply with a transcutaneous osseointegrated prosthesis system (TOPS).

Procedures

After careful evaluation and clinical work-up, the indication for transfemoral amputation and concomitant implantation of the prosthetic stem into the femoral cavity was secured. Six weeks after the creation of the stoma for coupling of the artificial limb and onset of physiotherapy, balance and gait training were scheduled. Full weight-bearing and walking without crutches were allowed 12 weeks after the index procedure. This sequence of events was paralleled by a series of pre-defined examinations, that is, questionnaires and mobility scores addressing the situation of transfemoral amputees, as well as standardized clinical gait analysis. The latter was performed before surgery and 6, 9, and 18 months after the index procedure.

Outcome

At the time of the index procedure, opioids could be tapered to zero, and the patient quickly regained her walking abilities during the rehabilitation period. Clinical gait analysis confirmed the restoration of bilateral symmetry by mutual approximation of kinematics and kinetics to a standard gait pattern.

Conclusion

The outcome of our patient strengthens the therapeutic potential of a unilateral transfemoral amputation in combination with TOPS. Nevertheless, long-term follow-up is necessary to detect future complications of this approach.
A comparative study of single and double incision for L4/5 and L5/S1 double-level percutaneous interlaminar lumbar discectomy
Authors: Tang Yingchuang , Liu Zixiang , Liu Hao , Zhang Junxin , Zhu Xiaoyu , Qian Zhonglai , Yang Huilin , Mao Haiqing , Zhang Kai , Chen Hao , Chen Kangwu
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study aims to investigate the clinical outcome of single and double incision for double-level percutaneous interlaminar lumbar discectomy

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed involving patients with L4/5 and L5/S1 double-level lumbar disc herniation who received percutaneous interlaminar lumbar discectomy (PEID) in our hospital from January 2017 to December 2020. These enrolled patients were divided into single- and double-incision groups, with 25 patients in each group. We compared the incision length, operation time, fluoroscopy times, and length of hospital stay between the two groups. Meanwhile, the postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Japanese Orthopedic Association score (JOA), and modified MacNab standard were used to evaluate the outcomes of the patients within the two groups.

Results

It showed that the single-incision group performed better than double-incision group in incision length, operation time, and fluoroscopy times (P < 0.001). The VAS score, JOA score, and ODI index in the two groups were significantly decreased at the time points of postsurgery, 1 month after surgery, and the last follow-up (P < 0.01), but there was no statistical significance between the two groups involving above parameters (P > 0.05). At the last follow-up, the excellent and good rates of MacNab efficacy in the two groups were 92% and 88%, respectively, but no significant difference was observed between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Both the single- and double-incision approaches are effective and safe for managing L4/5 and L5/S1 double-level LDH. Single-incision PEID for treating L4/5 and L5/S1 double-segment lumbar disc herniation has advantages of less trauma, fewer intraoperative fluoroscopy times, and shorter operation time, as compared to double-incision PEID. However, the operation of double-segment LDH through a single laminar incision is difficult, the learning curve is steep, and professional skill is highly required. Importantly, the surgical indications should be strictly grasped.
On Computational Asymptotic Analysis of General Sensitive Shells of Revolution
Authors: Hakula Harri
Published: August 2022

Recent advances in drug delivery technology have led to renewed interest in shell structures with mixed kinematical constraints, one end clamped, another one free, the so-called sensitive shells. It is known that elliptic sensitive shell problems may not always satisfy the Shapiro–Lopatinsky conditions and hence are not necessarily well-posed. The new observation is that for shells of revolution if the profile function has regions of elliptic Gaussian curvature, that region will dictate the overall response of the structure under concentrated loading. Despite the monotonically increasing total energy as the thickness tends asymptotically to zero, these shells are not in a pure bending state. The numerical results have been verified using equivalent lower-dimensional solutions.
The Role of miR-29s in Human Cancers—An Update
Authors: Nguyen Thuy T. P. , Suman Kamrul Hassan , Nguyen Thong Ba , Nguyen Ha Thi , Do Duy Ngoc
Published: August 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that directly bind to the 3’ untranslated region (3’-UTR) of the target mRNAs to inhibit their expression. The miRNA-29s (miR-29s) are suggested to be either tumor suppressors or oncogenic miRNAs that are strongly dysregulated in various types of cancer. Their dysregulation alters the expression of their target genes, thereby exerting influence on different cellular pathways including cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion, thereby contributing to carcinogenesis. In the present review, we aimed to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the miR-29s biological network and its functions in cancer, as well as its current and potential applications as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker and/or a therapeutic target in major types of human cancer.