bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative proximal junctional kyphosis in Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis following posterior surgery: extending fusion versus thoracolumbar/lumbar fusion
Authors: Hu Bowen , Wang Linnan , He Xin , Song Yueming , Yang Xi , Liu Limin , Zhou Chunguang
Published: January 2020

Background: Proximal junctional kyphosis is a common complication after posterior fusion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients, and was correlated with postoperative change of thoracic kyphosis. However, no previous literature has evaluated the correlation of PJK with thoracervical parameters in the AIS patients. Methods: Data from 61 patients who underwent posterior fusion for Lenke 5C AIS and had 2 years of follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were fused higher than two levels above the upper-end-vertebra in the extended fusion group (n=32), whereas they were fused below or at UEV+2 in the TL/L fusion group (n=29). Results: During an average follow-up of 32.5 months, 14/61 patients had PJK. The extended fusion group had a greater incidence of PJK than the TL/L fusion group did (11/32 vs. 3/29,P = 0.03) and a significant more decrease of TK than the TL/L group(p<0.01). Patients with PJK had a significantly larger Thoracic inlet angle(TIA) than those without PJK (P <0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed a greater preoperative TIA to be a positive predictor for PJK (p = 0.015). TIA >72° with extended fusion was a risk factor for PJK at final follow-up. The SRS-22 score did not significantly differ between the extended fusion and TL/L fusion groups. Conclusions: TIA could be a predictor of PJK. In Lenke 5C AIS patients, those with TIA >72° were more likely to develop PJK. And extended fusion in patients with Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis may be at an increased risk of proximal junctional kyphosis.
The subjective wellbeing of healthcare staff and their patients
Authors: Lee Henry , Dolan Paul , Darzi Ara , Vlaev Ivo
Published: January 2020

Subjective wellbeing (SWB) is a broad category of phenomena that includes people’s emotional responses, domain satisfactions (e.g., health or work), and global judgements of life satisfaction. Measures of SWB offer a means to gauge the impact of events in the lives of individuals. This article examines for the first time the ways in which measures of SWB can be used within a healthcare setting, which brings a new perspective to the way that SWB is considered and applied in determining health policy. The research uses methods for SWB data collection developed through innovative empirical work. The study is a cross sectional survey of the adult inpatient population of an NHS hospital and the nurses caring for the patients, which was undertaken at two time points: summer and winter. This work on the SWB of the staff and inpatients of an acute NHS hospital generated new data sets in clinical populations. The SWB of patients was shown to be significantly affected by severe levels of EQ5D states. When considering the data on a ward-by-ward basis, it was shown that nurses health and job satisfaction were important determinants of patient SWB. We discuss the implications of this research and explain how, when and where SWB measures, when used in healthcare, can be used in health policy. We offer a novel perspective that ensures a greater focus is placed on the way that patients experience health interventions when developing health policy.
Burden and associated factors of Scabies outbreak in Guna-begemidir district, south Gondar, Amhara, Ethiopia, 2018
Authors: Adamu Temesgen Anteye , Tsegaye Adino Tesfahun
Published: January 2020

Background Scabies is an infestation of the skin by the human itch mite ( Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis ). The parasite is found worldwide and affects people of all races and social classes. Studies shows that the prevalence of scabies is far different as 0.2% in developed countries up to 24% in developing countries. Ethiopia also reports scabies outbreak frequently since 2017. Recent studies show that the attack rate was 25% in Gondar city in Yekolo-temaries and 11% at Badewacho District, Southern Ethiopia.Methods A community based unmatched case-control (1:2 ratios) study was conducted in guna-begemidir district, using collected scabies line listed data and face to face interview to assess risk factors from January to February 2018 with sample size of 156 cases and 312 control. The data were collected using structured questionnaire, and analyzed using SPSS version 22 statistical software. Odds Ratios (OR), P value and 95% Confidence interval (CI) was computed to determine associated factors.Result A total of 4269 scabies case were reported from the district, attack rate of 7.9%. Of those cases 2254 (52.8%) were males. 10 (52.6%) kebeles were affected by the outbreak. The attack rate varies by kebeles which ranges from 0.88% to 25.5%. The highest attack rate was in mena-medihanealem kebele which is 25.5%. Sleeping with Scabies Patients, washing with scabies patients in the past 6 months, putting of cloths with diseased patient cloths and Household daily water consumption were significantly associated with scabies diseases on multivariable analysis.Conclusion and recommendation Scabies is public health problem in the district. Due to delayed detection and response, the disease was highly disseminated mainly because of drug shortage throughout the region. We recommend enhancing, strong ongoing active case surveillance of scabies; health education & availing drugs to all health facilities and do more on the above significant variables.
Effect of ozone gas on cultures of candida albicans and aspergillus fumigatus: evaluation of two ozonation equipment
Authors: Caetano Maicon Henrique , Siqueira João Paulo Zen , Ferreira Adriano Menis , Andrade Denise de , Lopes-Sousa Alvaro , Carneiro Liliane Moretti , Carvalho Herica Emília Félix de , Rigotti Marcelo Alessandro , Almeida Margarete Teresa Gottardo de
Published: January 2020

Background The use of O 3 as antimicrobial has stood out as a useful chemical compound for disinfection processes and/or sterilization due to its high oxidant power. Antimicrobial effects of ozone gas (O 3 ), produced by two commercial equipment on cultures of two fungi were studied.Method Petri dishes were plated with concentrations of Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus and placed on a countertop at three distances, 30 cm, 1 m and 2 m, in three directions of exposure of O 3, with and without air conditioning.Results Both equipment showed potential antifungal activity; however, the Mod. I generator (p<0.05) presented twice the O 3 flow rate. The results of the inhibitory activity of O 3 of Mod. II, except the cultures of Candida albicans at the distance of 2 m and, of Aspergillus fumigatus , at distances of 1 m and 2 m, showed significant differences (p<0.05). Candida albicans was more sensitive to O 3 (p<0.05) than the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. The experiments conducted with the air conditioning turned off proved the great antimicrobial activity of O 3 . The worst result was observed for the dishes of Aspergillus fumigatus , at the distance of 2 m and near the wall and the best for the central dishes, at the distance of 30 cm, of Candida albicans.Conclusion This method of disinfection by O 3 shows a feasible antimicrobial potential to establish new protocols for hygiene and hospital disinfection, reducing environmental contamination by fungi.
Cardiac variation of internal jugular vein as a marker of volume change in haemorrhagic shock
Authors: Tokunaga Kurato , Nakamura Kensuke , Inokuchi Ryota , Terada Rui , Tomioka Yuji , Toshiyuki Ikeda , Kobayashi Etsuko , Okazaki Hitoshi , Sakuma Ichiro , Doi Kent , Morimura Naoto
Published: January 2020

Background. Fluid resuscitation is crucial to counter acute haemorrhagic shock and requires prompt and accurate intravascular volume estimation for optimal fluid administration. This study aimed to evaluate whether cardiac variation of the internal jugular vein (IJV), measured by ultrasound, could detect hypovolemic status and predict response to fluid resuscitation. Methods. Autologous blood transfusion patients for their own elective surgeries were prospectively enrolled at our blood donation centre from August 2014 to January 2015., and movies of vertical B-mode ultrasonography of the IJV were recorded at five points during blood donation, namely, before donation, during donation, end of donation, end of fluid replacement and after hemostasis. Cardiac variation in IJV area and circumference were objectively measured using an automated extraction programme, along with blood pressure and heart rate. Results. We screened 140patients and data from 104 were eventually evaluated. Among the variables analysed, only collapse index area (CIa) and collapse index circumference (CIc) could detect both intravascular volume loss and response to fluid administration Conclusions. The cardiac variation of IJV may be a reliable indicator of intravascular volume loss and response to fluid administration in haemorrhagic shock.
Anthrax Outbreaks among Domestic Ruminants Associated with Butchering Infected Livestock and Improper Carcass Disposal in Three Districts of Uganda, 2016-2018
Authors: Monje Fred , Kisaakye Esther , Ario Alex Riolexus , Eurien Daniel , Ntono Vivian , Kadobera Daniel , Kwesiga Benon , Kabwama Steven , Ndumu Deo Birungi , Bulage Lilian , Salzer Johanna S. , Harris Julie R. , Zhu Bao-Ping
Published: January 2020

Background During January 2017-December 2018, multiple human anthrax outbreaks in Arua, Kween, and Kiruhura districts, Uganda were caused by exposure to domestic ruminants that died of anthrax. We investigated to determine the scope of anthrax outbreaks in domestic ruminants, identify possible exposures, and recommend evidence-based control measures. Methods We defined a suspected case-animal as sudden death of a domestic ruminant with unclotted blood oozing from body orifices during January 2016–December 2018 in Arua, Kween and Kiruhura districts. A probable case-animal was a suspected case-animal with a positive rapid diagnostic test using the Active Anthrax Detect Rapid Diagnostic Test, and/or the microscopic identification of Gram-positive rods in biological samples. A case-kraal was defined as an enclosure of cattle/sheep or mixed species with ≥1 suspected case-animal. We reviewed district veterinary records and actively searched for case-livestock. We conducted separate case-control studies in the affected districts to compare exposures between case-kraals and control-kraals (i.e., kraals with no suspected case-livestock during the same time period as the case-kraal), frequency-matched by village, with ratios of 1:1 in Arua, 1:4 in Kiruhura, and 1:2 in Kween. We estimated overall associations in all three districts using pooled analysis. Results We identified 1,971 suspected case-livestock (attack rate [AR] =1.4/1000) in 229 (7.3/1,000) of 31,500 kraals. Cattle (AR=2.1/1,000), goats (AR=0.48/1,000), and sheep (AR=0.10/1,000) were all affected. Of the three districts, Arua was the most affected (AR=3.1/1,000), followed by Kween (AR=1.8/1,000) and Kiruhura (AR=0.065/1,000). The epidemic curve indicated continuous outbreaks in Arua and Kween districts. Human outbreaks were reported during or after the onset of livestock outbreaks in all three districts. Having livestock that died of suspected anthrax butchered <50m from the kraal (OR=8.0; 95%CI=5.2-12) and improper livestock carcass disposal on/near the pastureland (OR=1.7, 95%CI=1.1-2.4) before the outbreak were significant risk factors for being a case-kraal. Conclusions Ugandan districts with human anthrax outbreaks had concurrent livestock anthrax outbreaks associated with nearby butchering and improper carcass disposal of livestock with suspected anthrax. We recommended anthrax vaccination for domestic ruminants, proper carcass disposal, increased surveillance for sudden livestock deaths, increased capacity for laboratory confirmation, and sensitization to livestock-keepers about anthrax control.
Overexpression of nicotinamide mononucleotide adenyltransferase (nmnat) increases the growth rate, Ca2+ content and cellulase production in Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Wang Shengli , Han Jing , Xia Jiale , Hu Yanru , Shi Liang , Ren Ang , Zhu Jing , Zhao Mingwen
Published: January 2020

Background: There is an urgent need to identify new and economical ways to utilize diverse types of lignocellulosic biomass. Ganoderma lucidum is well-known edible medicinal fungus that has an excellent ability to degrade a wide range of cellulosic biomass, and its nutrient utilization is closely related to the production of extracellular cellulase. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a nutritional sensor molecule, can respond to nutritional states and regulate cellular metabolism, and nicotinamide mononucleotide adenyltransferase (nmnat) is the key enzyme that catalyses the biosynthesis of NAD+.Results: In this study, a homologue of the gene encoding nmnat was cloned from G. lucidum. The Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (ATMT) method was used to construct two G. lucidum overexpression strains, OE::nmnat4 and OE::nmnat19, in which the nmnat gene transcript levels and the NAD+ content were significantly increased. Glnmnat overexpression strains showed dramatically increased colony growth on different carbon sources, and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration was increased by 3.95- and 2.10-fold in the G. lucidum OE::nmnat4 and OE::nmnat19 strains, respectively, compared with that observed in the WT strain. The CMCase activity increased by approximately 2.8- and 3-fold, and that of pNPGase increased by approximately 1.9- and 2.1-fold in the G. lucidum OE::nmnat4 and OE::nmnat19 strains, respectively, compared with that observed in the WT strain. Furthermore, NAD+ was observed to potentially induce cellulase production by regulating the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration.Conclusions: Taken together, for the first time, our results revealed that NAD+ can stimulate cellulase production and increase the transcript levels of cellulase genes via increasing the intracellular Ca2+ concentration in G. lucidum. This research also provides a theoretical basis for conducting cellulase-related work in other basidiomycetes.
Origin and Evolution of Emerging Liaoning Virus（genus Seadornavirus, family Reoviridae) 
Authors: Zhang Jun , Liu Hong , Wang Jiahui , Wang Jiheng , Zhang Jianming , Wang Jiayue , Zhang Xin , Ji Hongfang , Ding Zhongfen , Xia Han , Zhang Chunyang , Zhao Qian , Liang Guodong
Published: January 2020

Background:Liaoning virus(LNV) is a member of the genus Seadornavirus, family Reoviridae and has been isolated from kinds of sucking insects in Asia and Australia. However, there are no systematic studies describe the molecular genetic evolution and migration of LNVs isolated from different time, regions and vectors.Methods:Here, a phylogenetic analysis using Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations was conducted on the LNVs isolated from a variety of vectors during 1990-2014,worldwide. Results:The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that the LNV could be divided into 3 genotypes, of which genotype 1 mainly composed of LNVs isolated from Australia during 1990 to 2014 as well as the original LNV strain(LNV-NE97-31) isolated from Liaoning province in northern China in 1997,genotype 2 comprised of the isolates all from Xinjiang province in western China and genotype 3 consisted the isolates from Qinghai and Shanxi province of central China. LNVs emerged about 272 years ago in Australia and gradually evolved into three LNV lineages in the order genotype1(at 73.0 years ago),genotype2(at 46.5 years ago)and genotype 3(at 25.3 years ago). Following further phylogeographic analysis, we proposed that Australia (113°E-153°E,10°S-42°S) was the source of LNVs and the genotype 1 LNVs transmitted from this region to Liaoning province(118°E-125°E,38°N-43°N) in Northeast Asian continent then further spread across the central part of China to Xinjiang province in western China(75°E-95°E,35°N-50°N).Conclusion: LNVs were initially isolated from Liaoning province of China in the Northeast Asia, however, the present study demonstrated that LNVs were originated from Australia in the South Pacific region and transmitted to mainland China then rapidly spread across China and evolved three different genotypes.The above results suggested that LNV had the characteristics of long-distance transmission and there were great genetic diversity existed in the LNV population. Therefore, it is of great importance to strengthen the monitoring of the population variation of LNV and maintain vigilance to avoid LNV breaking through the species barrier and further clarify its relationship to human and animal infection.
Comparison of Left Ventricular Systolic Function Quantification Using Contrast-Enhanced and Non-Contrast Echocardiographic Images
Authors: Liang Siying , Wang Zhilong , Zhang Feng , Yu Chao , Zhu Tiangang
Published: January 2020

Background: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) are two important index for the quantification of left ventricular systolic function. With the help of ultrasound contrast agents, we can improve the definition of endocardial borders and allow the quantification of LVEF in patients with poor image quality. However, the feasibility of GLS measurements in contrast-enhanced images is still controversial. Our study aimed to explore the feasibility of GLS measured by velocity vector imaging (VVI) in contrast-enhanced images, compare the difference of measurements in contrast-enhanced and non-contrast images, and analyze the relation between LVEF and GLS in both conditions.Methods: A total of 133 patients with cancer, who were registered for transthoracic echocardiography as well as contrast-enhanced echocardiography were studied. LVEF was measured using the biplane modified Simpson’s rule and GLS was measured with offline VVI analysis of the three standard apical views in non-contrast and contrast-enhanced images respectively. Linear regression was performed to derive correlation coefficients between LVEF and GLS both in non-contrast and contrast-enhanced images.Results: GLS measurements in non-contrast images were discarded in 2/133 patients (1.5%), while in contrast-enhanced images were obtained in all patients. LVEF (64.12B7.47% vs. 66.25a8.61%, respectively; P < 0.01) and GLS (-20.99c4.67% vs. -23.40k4.58%, respectively; P < 0.01) were both significantly higher in the presence of contrast agents. A linear regression between LVEF and GLS in non-contrast images (r=0.627, P<0.001) was observed, as well as in contrast-enhanced images (r=0.649，P<0.001).Conclusion: GLS measured by VVI in contrast-enhanced echocardiography is a feasible and reliable index for the quantification of left ventricular systolic function, even in patients with poor image quality. Compared with the measurements in non-contrast images, both LVEF and GLS measurements are higher in the presence of contrast agents.
A comprehensive educational program for promoting Sexual Knowledge and Social Skills Mild Intellectually Disabled Teenagers in Puberty: protocol for a mixed methods study
Authors: akrami leila , malekpour mokhtar , faramarzi salar , abedi ahmad
Published: January 2020

Background: Puberty is an important period for teenagers with intellectual disability (ID). In this period sexuality education and increasing social skills of adolescent and education of mothers become absolutely vital. The current research aimed to present a comprehensive educational program for promoting sexual knowledge and social skills mild intellectually disabled teenagers in puberty.Methods: This study is a sequential exploratory (qualitative – quantitative) mixed methods design that consists of three consecutive phases. In this study, following a qualitative approach, the researchers will explain state of sexual knowledge and social skills mild intellectually disabled teenagers in puberty. In the second phase, researchers will design an appropriate and comprehensive educational program for promoting sexual knowledge and social skills of MID adolescents and the education of their mothers. The suggested program of expert panel is approved based on prioritization guidelines and will be finalized for the execution. In the third stage, the effectiveness of educational program will be investigated in a semi-experimental study.Conclusions: Findings revealed that the educational program is appropriate MID adolescents and their mothers and will increase their sexual knowledge and social skills in puberty. Educational programs are important for teenagers with MID and their mothers. Family plays an important role in puberty of these adolescents.
Intracanal Cryotherapy and its Effects on the Postoperative Pain in Root Canal Therapy: Systematic Review & Meta-analysis Protocol.
Authors: Sadaf Durre , Ahmad Muhammad Zubair , Onakpoya Igho
Published: January 2020

Background: There are many research studies directing in lowering postoperative pain in root canal therapy. The use of intracanal cryotherapy in root canal treatment is recently introduced, and many researchers are inclined towards this techniques. This systematic review will give an insight into its application in endodontic therapy and its effects on postoperative pain.The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the effect of intracanal cryotherapy on the postoperative pain in patients with pulp diseases and with or without peri-radicular infection during root canal therapy. This systematic review will include randomized controlled trials only. The studies should encompass patients with pulpal diseases, i.e. irreversible pulpitis and pulp necrosis in teeth. Previously root treated teeth, immature, and teeth with root resorption will not be included. Methods: We will conduct a comprehensive search strategy using electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), Scopus, and Cochrane library. A predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria will be utilized for the selection of studies. The reference list of selected studies will be manually searched. We will extract data from studies on a structured data collection form. At the same time, the risk of bias assessment of studies using the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tools will be performed by two reviewers independently. Furthermore, qualitative and quantitative data synthesis will be accomplished. The data will be presented in the form of table of summary of findings. Discussion: This systematic review will assess the role of intracanal cryotherapy in the form of cold saline irrigation as a final irrigant during root canal therapy. The quality of evidence will ranked as high, moderate low or very low using GRADE approach. Comprehensive search strategy, risk of bias assessment using Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool by two reviewers are the strength of this systematic review. Systematic review registration number: The protocol is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. (PROSPERO CRD 42020163438)
Clinical and whole-exome sequencing findings in Individuals from Yunnan Province with Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Xiao Yi-shuang , Jiang Hong-chao , Sheng Ru , Tang Li , Yang XIAO-Hong , Gu Huai-yu , He Wen-Ji , Ma Jing
Published: January 2020

Background : Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) is a rare inherited retinal disorder characterized by the failure of peripheral retinal vascularization at birth. FEVR can cause further pathological changes, such as neovascularization, exudation, haemorrhage, and retinal detachment, in turn. The molecular diagnosis enables a deeper understanding of this disease, so the differentiation of FEVR is important for the accuracy of genetic counselling. However, to date, only six genes have been identified as being responsible for this disease. Methods : Without a known FEVR gene mutation, six families were enrolled in our study between 2016 and 2017 from the clinical practices of ophthalmologists. The referring physician made a diagnosis for FEVR probands, and clinical data and DNA were collected from each participant. Whole-exome sequencing was used to detect the mutations present in the probands. The raw reads were obtained from Illumina Miseq. Then, an in-house bioinformatics pipeline was performed to detect both single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and small insertions/deletions (InDels). The pathogenic mutations were identified with stringent criteria and were further confirmed by conventional methods and cosegregation in families. Results : Using this approach, bioinformatic predictions showed that six mutations were found in our study: three mutations in the known genes of ZNF408, LRP5 and KIF11 and three mutations in the newly identified genes NR2E3,KRT3 and FOXL2 .To test the hypothesis that cases of FEVR are caused by NR2E3, KRT3 and FOXL2 , probands who were diagnosed as FEVR by a physician using wide-field fluorescein angiography were found to not have any mutations in any of the six known FEVR genes. Compared with previous reports, mutations in NR2E3, KRT3 and FOXL2 are believed to cause a broader spectrum of ocular disease. The NR2E3,KRT3 and FOXL2 genes likely play a role in retinal vascular development. Conclusions : This report is the first to describe FEVR mutations in Yunnan province children with FEVR. This study would provide information on the genetic forms of the disease and direct counselling by analysing the genetic testing and genotype-phenotype interaction.
Electroencephalography-based functional brain network analysis according to lesion location and motor function in stroke patients
Authors: Kim Da-Hye , Kwon Gyu Hyun , Park Wanjoo , Kim Yun-Hee , Lee Seong-Whan , Kim Laehyun
Published: January 2020

Background. While numerous studies have investigated changes in brain activation after stroke, limited information exists on the association between functional brain networks and lesion location in stroke patients. Methods. We compared the characteristics of brain networks among patients with cortico-subcortical lesions (n = 5), subcortical lesions (n = 7), and age-matched healthy controls (n = 12) during the execution of hand movements. Functional brain networks were analyzed based on network parameters in beta frequency electroencephalography (EEG) bands. Results. Our results indicated that while the healthy control group had appropriate compensatory patterns on the brain network with an aging effect, the two stroke lesion groups exhibited different hyper-connected characteristics in the brain network within the sensorimotor regions, particularly the contralesional M1, during motor execution. In addition, the betweenness centrality on the contralesional motor area was identified as a promising biomarker for motor functional ability associated with stroke. Our findings further allowed us to identify the characteristics of the stroke lesion that could not be found with EEG power by using the EEG brain network on the cerebral cortex. Conclusions. We anticipate that our study will improve the understanding of the complex changes that occur in the brain network as a result of stroke, and support the development of more effective and efficient rehabilitation programs based on lesion location for stroke patients.
In vitro and in vivo inhibition of xanthine oxidase by the flowers of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.
Authors: Ng Teng Lit , Loh Khye Er , Tan Sheri-Ann Shu Wei , Tan Hui Yin , Wee Sze Ping
Published: January 2020

Background: Xanthine oxidase (XO) plays an important role in human’s purine degradation. Excessive uric acid formation results in hyperuricemia and gout. The study aimed to determine the XO inhibitory potential of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. dried flower and its effect on XO gene expression in animal models.Methods: In vitro XO inhibitory assay was employed to investigate the XO inhibitory potential of C. morifolium flowers. The bioactive sub-fraction was investigated further to give additional insight on its uric acid lowering potential via animal study and XO gene expression analysis. HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS was utilized to identify the putative compounds in the sub-fraction.Results: Among the fractions, EtOAc fraction exhibited the highest in vitro XO inhibitory potency (51.77 ± 0.98%; IC50 = 10.64 ± 0.51 µg/mL) and it was further fractionated into 15 sub-fractions through open column chromatography. EtOAc F7, F8, F9, F10, and F11 possessed >75% XO inhibition. F9 and F10 exhibited high in vitro XO inhibitory activity, cellular pro-proliferative effect and intracellular antioxidant activity among the sub-fractions tested. These two sub-fractions were also non-cytotoxic at the concentration range of 0.1 – 10 µg/mL. F10 was shown to be very effective in both serum and urine uric acid lowering properties in rats model upon oral consumption. It was subjected to further fractionation and a total of 11 sub-fractions were obtained. F10-4, F10-8, F10-9, and F10-10 possessed >90% XO inhibition. These sub-fractions were subjected to HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis. A total of nine known compounds have been identified and 26 unknown compounds were detected. Conclusions: The possible mechanisms contributed to the anti-hyperuricemic effect of F10 were suggested to be non-competitive inhibition of XO enzyme, XO gene expression down regulation, and enhancement of uric acid excretion. Structure elucidation of the unknown compounds and the evaluation of the XO inhibitory activity of a single or a mixture of these compounds are recommended to identify possible synergism between them.
Relationship between the correction angle in medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy and the postoperative state of patellofemoral cartilage
Authors: Choi Chong-Hyuk , Jung Min , Kim Sung-Hwan , Kim Sang-Hee , Yoon Tae-Hwan
Published: January 2020

Background: To investigate clinical and radiologic effects of medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) on the patellofemoral joint in relation to the correction angle by comparing changes in cartilage from before to after the surgery. Methods: A total of 124 MOWHTO cases were divided into the three groups of small, moderate, and large, depending on the correction angle. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were compared at the mean follow-up time of 38.8 months. Postoperative cartilage changes were assessed during implant removal completed at two years after MOWHTO. Results: There was no significant difference evident in most clinical outcomes measured, including Lysholm score and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome score subscales, with the exception of postoperative Shelbourne and Trumper score between the groups (P< 0.001). International Knee Documentation Committee scale value on radiologic evaluation did not significantly differ among the groups. A progression of cartilage degeneration was noted in 40.3% of femoral trochleas and 22.6% of patellas. Cartilage degeneration was significantly progressed in the large correction angle group versus in the other two groups. Regression analysis showed that the correction angle had a significant effect on cartilage deterioration (Trochela, P=0.009; Patella, P=0.034). Conclusion: Patellofemoral joint was more adversely affected by MOWHTO in conjunction with the requirement of a larger correction angle. Thus, cases necessitating considerable correction should be forewarned of patellofemoral joint symptoms within a relatively short time after the procedure. Keywords: medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy, osteoarthritis, patellofemoral arthritis, correction angle
Identifying and prioritizing requirements for an e-platform to strengthen nursing in Kazakhstan A two-step research design including a literature review and a Delphi study
Authors: Dijkman Bea , Oosterhoff Alberta , Akanov Amangali , Paans Wolter
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND This paper addresses the requirements for an e-platform that is to be developed to strengthen nursing in Kazakhstan. It aims to support knowledge sharing and collaboration in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. To construct the platform, a requirement analysis was conducted in a two-step design that included a literature review and a Delphi study. The aim of the review was to identify requirements for an e-platform for collaborative developments in nursing science and nursing research education. The aim of the Delphi study was to specifically prioritize these requirements for Kazakhstan.METHODS A literature search was accomplished using different electronic databases between February and April 2018 by applying search terms concerning nursing, e-platform, research, and education. Included studies should not be older than six years, written in English or Russian, involve nurses or nursing students, and address learning by e-platform. The Delphi study included two rounds of questionnaires containing input from the review and from other project activities. Rating occurred among a panel of experts from Kazakhstan, Finland, and the Netherlands. Outcomes were analysed applying content validity ratios and level of consensus thresholds.RESULTS The literature search generated eight studies. Data extraction and synthesis resulted in nine categories of requirements covered by four groups in the Delphi study. One group contains content-related requirements encompassing aim and users, platform structure, educational content, and nursing skills. Another group comprises functional requirements including communication, knowledge acquisition, and management. A third group refers to usability requirements, and the fourth group contains technical requirements. The Delphi study generated a list of 52 essential requirements and 15 useful requirements with a high level of consensus.CONCLUSION The input for the Delphi corresponded with the perceptions of experts concerning the needs of the e-platform to be developed. The list of requirements is well-embedded in the literature as well as in the national context of nursing in Kazakhstan and, therefore, will contribute to improving the trinity of nursing education, research, and practice. Although the list is context-specific, when validated by a panel of experts, it is considered to be applicable universally when developing e-platforms for nursing.
Predicting physiologic response to changes in positive end-expiratory pressure in mechanically ventilated children: a computable phenotype and machine learning approach
Authors: Smallwood Craig D , Gouldstone Andrew , Arnold John H
Published: January 2020

Background Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is often increased to improve ventilation efficiency and gas exchange during pediatric mechanical ventilation. Although it is clinically important to optimize PEEP in this population, there is a paucity of literature to guide the clinician at the bedside. Increasingly, time-series physiologic data are available for mechanically ventilated subjects in the intensive care unit. However, these data have not been adequately explored in the literature. Therefore, we sought to apply time-series computable phenotyping on time-series physiologic data and develop a model to predict PEEP response in mechanically ventilated children. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of continuous data in a academic hospital multidisciplinary intensive care unit. Patients were elgible for inclusion in the study if they received mechanically ventilation for > 25 hours and were < 18 years of age. Time-series data from the patient monitor and mechanical ventilator were abstracted 1-hour preceding and 1-hour following a PEEP change. PEEP increase (PEEPincrease), a responderwas defined as anyone who exhibited an improved dead-space fraction (Vd/Vt); non-respondersdemonstrated a worsening Vd/Vtin the hour following the PEEP change. Features from continuous mechanical ventilation variables were extracted and used to train a support vector machine model in order to predict Vd/Vt response to changes in PEEP. The performance of the model was assessed by calculating the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) and computing measures of diagnostic accuracy. Results In all, 393 PEEP change cases were included in the analysis in 83 subjects. A total of 27 computable phenotypes were identified and incorporated into the model. The AUROC was 0.82 and 0.90 for classifying response to PEEP increases and decreases respectively. The overall diagnostic accuracy was 0.75 for PEEP increases and 0.84 for PEEP decreases. Conclusions The model classified responders to increases and decreases in PEEP with reasonable accuracy. The model performed better for those cases when PEEP was decreases. In the future, these methods may play an important role in optimizing care of the mechanically ventilated pediatric patients, especially if they can be tailored to individual institutions.
Efficacy of DL-3 n-butylphthalide on psychiatric,behavioural and cognitive functions in delayed encephalopathy after acute carbon monoxide poisoning
Authors: Chen Yankun , Yang Lei , Li Hui , Zhang Hongdan , Wang Qiulan , Hu Bin
Published: January 2020

Background The main hazards of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning are its serious clinical effects,high incidence and mortality of toxicity.Acute brain injury and delayed encephalopathy after acute carbon monoxide poisoning (DEACMP) are the most common neurological complications.CO poisoning can cause neurological,psychiatric,behavioural and cognitive disorders,including cortical blindness,parkinsonism,amnesia,personality changes,dementia,and mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.This study was performed to assess the efficacy of DL-3 n-butylphthalide (NBP) and dexamethasone (DXM) and hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on psychiatric,behavioural and cognitive functions in DEACMP.Patients and methods A total of 179 patients with DEACMP were recruited and assigned to the combined-therapy group(receiving NBP and DXM 5 mg/day plus HBO therapy) or the control group (HBO therapy as monotherapy).The behavioural and cognitive functions in patients were evaluated by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE),the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) scale and the Barthel index of activities of daily living (ADL) after the treatment at 1 month,3 months,and 1 year respectively.The psychiatric changes in patients were evaluated by the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) after the treatment at 3 months and 1 year respectively.Results At 1 month,3 months and 1 year after the treatment,the MMSE,MoCA and ADL scores were all significantly higher in the combined therapy group than those in the control group.At 3 months and 1 year after the treatment,the HAMA and HAMD scores were all significantly lower in the combined therapy group than those in the control group.There were no significant alterations in blood glucose,blood lipids,or liver or kidney function during the whole treatment session.Some patients experienced loss of appetite,mild headache and minor skin irritations.However,these patients recovered by themselves and needed no additional medications or special treatment. Conclusion These results indicated that NBP and DXM combined with HBO for the treatment of DEACMP can significantly improve the psychiatric,behavioural and cognitive functions of patients and is very safe.
Characterization of the complete chloroplast genome sequence and phylogenetic analysis of B. oleracea var. italica
Authors: Zhang Zhenchao , Dai Zhongliang , Yao Yuemei , Pan Yongfei , Sun Guosheng , Shan Xi
Published: January 2020

Backgrounds: Broccoli (Brassica. oleracea var. italica L.) is known as one of the most nutritionally rich vegetables, as well as rich in functional components that benefit to health. The main purposes of this research were sequencing, assembling and annotation of chloroplast genome of broccoli based on Illumina HiSeq2500 sequencing platform. Results: The size of the broccoli cp genome is 153,364 bp, including two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,197 bp each, separated by a small single copy (SSC) region of 17,834 bp and a large single copy (LSC) region of 83,136 bp. The GC content of the complete genome is 36.36%, while those of SSC, LSC, and IR are 29.1%, 34.15% and 42.35%, respectively. It harbors 134 functional genes, including 87 protein-coding genes, 39 tRNAs and 8 rRNAs, with 31 duplicates in the IRs. The most abundant amino acid in the protein-coding genes is leucine, while the least is cysteine. Codon usage frequency showed bias for A/T-ending codons in the cp genome. In the repeat structure analysis, a total of 34 repeat sequences and 291 simple sequence repeat (SSRs) were detected in the work. Although cp genomic structure and size are highly conserved, the SC-IR boundary regions are variable between the 7 cp genomes. The phylogenetic relationships based on complete cp genome from 9 species suggest that B. oleracea var. italica is closely related to Brassica juncea. Conclusions: The complete cp genome sequence was obtained and annotated for broccoli for the first time. The information acquired from this research will be useful for further species identification, population genetics and biological research of broccoli.
Cassiterite crystallization experiments in alkali carbonate aqueous solutions using a hydrothermal diamond-anvil cell
Authors: Liu Yongchao , Li Jiankang , Chou I-Ming
Published: January 2020

Ore-forming fluids enriched in alkali carbonate are commonly observed in natural melt and fluid inclusions associated with tin mineralization, particularly in granitic pegmatite. However, the roles of alkali carbonates remain unclear. Hence, to investigate the roles of alkali carbonate, herein, cassiterite (SnO2) crystallization experiments in SnO2–Li2CO3–H2O and SnO2–Na2CO3–H2O systems were conducted using a hydrothermal diamond-anvil cell. The results showed that SnO2 could dissolve into the alkali carbonate aqueous solution during heating, and long prismatic cassiterite crystals grew during the subsequent cooling stage at average rates of 0.61 × 10–6 to 8.22 × 10–6 cm/s in length and 3.40–19.07 μm3/s in volume. The mole fraction of cassiterite crystallized from the SnO2–Li2CO3–H2O system ranges from 0.03 to 0.41 mol%, which depends on the Li2CO3 content dissolved in the aqueous solution. In situ Raman analysis of the alkali carbonate-rich aqueous solution in the sample chamber suggests that the dissolution of SnO2 can be attributed to the alkaline conditions produced by hydrolysis of alkali carbonate in which Sn(OH)62− may be a potential tin-transporting species. The cassiterite crystallization conditions obtained in our SnO2–alkali carbonate–H2O systems primarily fell within the 400–850 °C and 300–850 MPa temperature and pressure ranges, respectively; furthermore, cassiterite crystallization ended in rare metal pegmatite-forming conditions. These crystallization features of cassiterite are similar to those formed in tin-mineralized granitic pegmatites. It indicates that an alkali carbonate-rich aqueous solution or hydrous melt can work as a favorable transport medium for tin and provides the necessary conditions for cassiterite crystallization in granitic pegmatite, bearing the roles in decreasing the viscosity of hydrous melts and enhancing the solubility of SnO2 in ore-forming melts or fluids. These roles of alkali carbonate can also be extended for the mineralization of other rare metals (e.g., Li and Be) in granitic pegmatite.
Abiotic and biotic processes that drive carboxylation and decarboxylation reactions
Authors: Sheik Cody S. , Cleaves H. James , Johnson-Finn Kristin , Giovannelli Donato , Kieft Thomas L. , Papineau Dominic , Schrenk Matthew O. , Tumiati Simone
Published: January 2020

Carboxylation and decarboxylation are two fundamental classes of reactions that impact the cycling of carbon in and on Earth’s crust. These reactions play important roles in both long-term (primarily abiotic) and short-term (primarily biotic) carbon cycling. Long-term cycling is important in the subsurface and at subduction zones where organic carbon is decomposed and outgassed or recycled back to the mantle. Short-term reactions are driven by biology and have the ability to rapidly convert CO2 to biomass and vice versa. For instance, carboxylation is a critical reaction in primary production and metabolic pathways like photosynthesis in which sunlight provides energy to drive carbon fixation, whereas decarboxylation is a critical reaction in metabolic pathways like respiration and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Early life and prebiotic chemistry on Earth likely relied heavily upon the abiotic synthesis of carboxylic acids. Over time, life has diversified (de)carboxylation reactions and incorporated them into many facets of cellular metabolism. Here we present a broad overview of the importance of carboxylation and decarboxylation reactions from both abiotic and biotic perspectives to highlight the importance of these reactions and compounds to planetary evolution.
Allured by Satan, the World and the Flesh: Representations of Temptation in Medieval English Drama
Authors: TAŞDELEN Pınar
Published: January 2020

According to medieval Christian understanding, human beings have three obstacles or adversaries that mankind must overcome to achieve salvation: Satan, the world and the flesh. The Holy Trinity embodied in the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost is in contrast to Satan, the world and the flesh. The ideas of heaven and hell are developed with regard to the avoidance of temptation, putting emphasis on the possibility of being abstained from temptation. Medieval dramatists represent the temptations in several mystery and morality plays so as to warn their audience against temptation, present temptation as something to be abstained from through biblical accounts, beginning with Satan’s temptation, followed with an individual’s falling into temptation oneself. Accordingly, this article aims to analyse the dramatic representations of the temptations by medieval playwrights with references to specific mystery and morality plays in order to reveal how spiritual and earthly temptation is handled in the plays. Thereby, an individual’s own temptation with/without the possibility of salvation is questioned.
Trabalho e educação: raízes da ontologia da educação da pedagogia histórico-crítica
Authors: Santos Adriana Regina de Jesus , Gonçalves Jose Alexandre
Published: January 2020

Resumo A pretensão deste artigo é compreender as categorias analíticas de Luckacs como elementos para uma ontologia da educação. tendo como foco entender as ideais “lukácsianas” e sua relação com os escritos de Dermeval Savian. A metodologia utilizada tem como base a pesquisa bibliográfica. Ao término deste estudo constatamos que é por meio do entendimento da  concepção ontológica do ser, que poderemos restabelecer os vínculos entre conhecimento e trabalho criativo.
Política pública e educação ambiental: aspectos conceituais e ideológicos de participação, democracia e cidadania em Sergipe
Authors: Nepomuceno Aline Lima de Oliveira , Araujo Maria Inêz Oliveira
Published: January 2020

Esta pesquisa visa compreender a Política Estadual de EA de Sergipe quanto as concepções de participação, democracia e cidadania. Em síntese, os resultados dos dados produzidos revelaram que existem tendências para a não escolarização da Lei n.º 6.882/10, pois há inaplicabilidade de alguns artigos dessa política na prática pedagógica; há o reforço da prática educativa socioambiental fragmentada e conservadora, potencializada em um currículo tecnicista, baseado em conteúdos; há ainda o abafamento das particularidades das escolas públicas sergipanas, homogeneizando suas práticas educativas.
Sobre os dias atuais: neoconservadorismo, escolas cívico-militares e o simulacro da gestão democrática
Authors: Martins André Antunes
Published: January 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar, inicialmente, a aliança entre o neoconservadorismo e o neoliberalismo no campo educacional, assim como, os desdobramentos desse processo no avanço das parcerias das redes públicas educacionais com as instâncias militares. Fizemos uma revisão dos documentos que normatizam essas alianças, sobretudo, do Estado de Goiás e do Distrito Federal. Consideramos que ideia de gestão democrática é apresentada nos documentos, mas sem intenção de efetividade, visto os diferentes dispositivos de (re) disciplinarização e produtividade que abrandam a vida comum.