bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between the OF Classification and Radiological Outcome of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures After Kyphoplasty
Authors: Palmowski Yannick , Balmer Sophie , Hu Zhouyang , Winkler Tobias , Schnake Klaus John , Kandziora Frank , Pumberger Matthias 
Published: November 2020

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study. Objectives: The OF classification is a new classification for osteoporotic vertebral fractures. The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship between preoperative OF subgroups and the postoperative outcome after kyphoplasty in patients with such fractures. Methods: Patients who underwent kyphoplasty of a single osteoporotic vertebral fracture were included and divided into groups according to the OF subgroups. Pre- and postoperative plain radiographs were analyzed in regard to the restoration of vertebral body height and local kyphotic angle (LKA). Additionally, clinical data including pre- and postoperative Visual Analogue Scale pain scores was documented. The clinical and radiological results were compared pre- and postoperatively within groups and between groups. Results: A total of 156 patients from OF subgroups 2 to 4 were included (OF 2: n = 58; OF 3: n = 36; OF 4: n = 62). Patients from all groups experienced significant pain relief postoperatively ( P < .001). Patients with OF 2 fractures showed a repositioning of the vertebral body height in the anterior and middle portions (both P < .001), but no significant improvement in LKA. For OF 3 and 4 fractures, there was a significant restoration of vertebral body height ( P < .001 for both) and a significant improvement of LKA ( P < .001 for both). The highest average restoration was noted in the OF 4 group. Conclusions: A higher OF subgroup is related to a higher radiological benefit from kyphoplasty. This confirms that the OF classification is an appropriate tool for the preoperative assessment of osteoporotic fractures.
Nostalgia decreases green consumption: The mediating role of past orientation
Authors: Wang Xuehua , Chao Chen-Ho 
Published: November 2020

Nostalgia, a sentimental longing for one’s past, can influence consumption behavior. The present research investigates how nostalgia affects green consumption. Specifically, we propose that high nostalgia, chronic or primed, can lower consumers’ preference for green (vs regular) products. Results across four studies show that high-nostalgia consumers have lower preference for green products compared with low-nostalgia consumers. This effect is mediated by past orientation, such that high-nostalgia consumers tend to dwell on the past, which brings preference to the older products, usually regular rather than green ones that have future connotations, they grew up with. In addition, we find that mortality salience (MS) moderates the effect of nostalgia on green product preference, such that the negative effect of nostalgia on the preference for green products would be enhanced (vs mitigated) when MS is high (vs low). Implications for research and practice are discussed. JEL CLASSIFICATION M3
The effect of conjunctivochalasis detected by anterior segment optical coherence tomography on tear function in an elderly population
Authors: Ozek Dilay , Karaca Emine Esra , Evren Kemer Ozlem 
Published: November 2020

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate conjunctivochalasis (CCH) and its relationship with tear meniscus and tear function in an elderly population. Materials and methods: This prospective, observational study included 144 eyes of 144 patients aged >65 years who were referred to our clinic for various reasons. The patients were separated into group 1 including 64 eyes of 64 patients with CCH and group 2 including 80 eyes of 80 patients without CCH. All patients in both groups underwent a full ophthalmological examination, and the presence of CCH, fluorescein tear break-up time (FTBUT) test, Schirmer test, ocular surface staining (Oxford grading score) and OSDI (Ocular Surface Disease Index) test results were recorded. Measurements of the conjunctivochalasis area (CCHA), tear meniscus height (TMH) and tear meniscus area (TMA) were taken using anterior segment optic coherence tomography (AS-OCT). Results: Group 1 comprised 34 females and 30 males with a mean age of 71.15 ± 12.34 years. Group 2 comprised 43 females and 37 males with a mean age of 68.16 ± 6.05 years ( p = 0.122). The CCH rate was 44.4% in all of the examined patients. The OSDI score and the ocular surface staining test were significantly higher ( p < 0.05), and the FTBUT, TMH and TMA were significantly lower ( p < 0.05) in group 1 than in group 2. The Schirmer I test results were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: The prevalence of CCH is quite high in elderly individuals and may disrupt tear function in these patients.
A Stiffness Variable Passive Compliance Device with Reconfigurable Elastic Inner Skeleton and Origami Shell
Authors: Zhang Zhuang , Chen Genliang , Fan Weicheng , Yan Wei , Kong Lingyu , Wang Hao 
Published: November 2020

AbstractDevices with variable stiffness are drawing more and more attention with the growing interests of human-robot interaction, wearable robotics, rehabilitation robotics, etc. In this paper, the authors report on the design, analysis and experiments of a stiffness variable passive compliant device whose structure is a combination of a reconfigurable elastic inner skeleton and an origami shell. The main concept of the reconfigurable skeleton is to have two elastic trapezoid four-bar linkages arranged in orthogonal. The stiffness variation generates from the passive deflection of the elastic limbs and is realized by actively switching the arrangement of the leaf springs and the passive joints in a fast, simple and straightforward manner. The kinetostatics and the compliance of the device are analyzed based on an efficient approach to the large deflection problem of the elastic links. A prototype is fabricated to conduct experiments for the assessment of the proposed concept. The results show that the prototype possesses relatively low stiffness under the compliant status and high stiffness under the stiff status with a status switching speed around 80 ms.
Practical Structural Design Approach of Multiconfiguration Planar Single-Loop Metamorphic Mechanism with a Single Actuator
Authors: Yang Qiang , Hao Guangbo , Li Shujun , Wang Hongguang , Li Haiyang 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
As a type of multiconfiguration mechanism that can operate in an under-actuated state, metamorphic mechanisms were proposed more than two decades ago and attracted significant interest. Studies on structural synthesis of metamorphic mechanisms tend to focus more on metamorphic techniques and the structural synthesis of source mechanisms for metamorphic mechanisms. By designing different constraint architectures of metamorphic joints, multistructures can be obtained from the same source metamorphic mechanism. To determine the constraint architectures of metamorphic joints and their different assembly combinations, a kinematic status matrix and a corresponding constraint status matrix are constructed based on the metamorphic cyclogram of a source mechanism. According to the equivalent resistance gradient model and the constraint status matrix, an equivalent resistance matrix for the metamorphic joints is proposed. A structural synthesis matrix of the metamorphic mechanism is then obtained from the equivalent resistance matrix by deducing the constraint form vectors of the metamorphic joints. Furthermore, a kinematic diagram synthesis of the source metamorphic mechanism of a planar single-loop metamorphic mechanism is proposed, which is based on only the 14 one- or zero-degrees-of-freedom linkage groups. The entire structural design method of a metamorphic mechanism is based on the structural synthesis matrix and is presented as a systematic process. Finally, the proposed structural design approach is illustrated by two examples to verify its feasibility and practicality. This study provides an effective method for designing a practical multi-mobility and multiconfiguration planar single-loop metamorphic mechanism with a single actuator.
Knowledge and attitudes of us adults regarding COVID-19
Authors: Hogan Christopher , Atta Massud , Anderson Paul , Stead Tej , Solomon Matthew , Banerjee Paul , Sleigh Bryan , Shivdat John , Webb McAdams Amanda , Ganti Latha 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
This was a survey of the general non-healthcare-worker USA population regarding their knowledge and attitudes toward the COVID-19 pandemic. Almost everyone practiced social distancing. Women were significantly more likely to be worried about contracting the virus than men (65% vs. 43%, p = 0.0272). There was also a linear trend with age, with older Americans being more worried about contracting the virus. Women were also significantly likely to have received the influenza vaccine this past season compared to men (60% vs. 37%, p = .0167). Similarly, women were significantly more likely to get the influenza vaccine next season than men (77% vs. 46%, p = .0014.). Overall, across every age group, geographic part of the USA and gender, more (or the same) Americans plan on getting the influenza vaccine next season compared to last, but not fewer. This may reflect more awareness of preventative health brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A prospective evaluation of the impact of trans-rectal prostate biopsy on the voiding function of patients
Authors: Tolani Musliu Adetola , Ahmed Muhammed , Fidelis Lovely , Awaisu Mudi , Sudi Abdullahi , Nasir Oyelowo , Lawal Ahmad Tijjani , Bello Ahmad , Maitama Hussaini Yusuf 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundBiopsy-related inflammatory edema, urethral blood clots and sphincteric spasm could lead to post-biopsy voiding dysfunction. This study examines the impact of trans-rectal prostate biopsy on the voiding function of patients in our institution.MethodsBetween February 2017 and July 2018, quasi-experimental study was carried out on 68 patients with indication(s) for prostate biopsy. Prior to the biopsy, IPSS (International Prostate Symptoms Score) andQmax(peak flow rate) of each patient were determined. These were re-assessed 7 and 14 days after biopsy, and compared to baseline data. Analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Science withp < 0.05 considered significant.ResultsPost-biopsy acute urinary retention occurred in 4.4% of the patients. The total IPSS (12.5 vs. 14.7,p = 0.003), IPSS storage sub-score (6.7 vs. 8.3,p = 0.001), bother score (3.3 vs. 3.6,p = 0.025) andQmax(18.7 vs. 15.9 ml/s,p = 0.001) significantly deteriorated from the baseline value on the 7th day post-biopsy. However, there was no significant difference in these variables in comparison with baseline by the 14th day after the biopsy. Patients with moderate IPSS and normalQmaxat baseline had significantly worsened values by the 7th post-biopsy day (p = 0.002 andp = 0.001, respectively) while those with lower baseline bother score had a higher tendency for worsening of their bother score.ConclusionsTrans-rectal prostate biopsy causes significant worsening of lower urinary tract symptoms and associated deterioration in quality of life, which spontaneously resolved by the second week in the patients.
Functional module detection through integration of single-cell RNA sequencing data with protein–protein interaction networks
Authors: Klimm Florian , Toledo Enrique M. , Monfeuga Thomas , Zhang Fang , Deane Charlotte M. , Reinert Gesine 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Recent advances in single-cell RNA sequencing have allowed researchers to explore transcriptional function at a cellular level. In particular, single-cell RNA sequencing reveals that there exist clusters of cells with similar gene expression profiles, representing different transcriptional states.

Results
In this study, we present scPPIN, a method for integrating single-cell RNA sequencing data with protein–protein interaction networks that detects active modules in cells of different transcriptional states. We achieve this by clustering RNA-sequencing data, identifying differentially expressed genes, constructing node-weighted protein–protein interaction networks, and finding the maximum-weight connected subgraphs with an exact Steiner-tree approach. As case studies, we investigate two RNA-sequencing data sets from human liver spheroids and human adipose tissue, respectively. With scPPIN we expand the output of differential expressed genes analysis with information from protein interactions. We find that different transcriptional states have different subnetworks of the protein–protein interaction networks significantly enriched which represent biological pathways. In these pathways, scPPIN identifies proteins that are not differentially expressed but have a crucial biological function (e.g., as receptors) and therefore reveals biology beyond a standard differential expressed gene analysis.

Conclusions
The introduced scPPIN method can be used to systematically analyse differentially expressed genes in single-cell RNA sequencing data by integrating it with protein interaction data. The detected modules that characterise each cluster help to identify and hypothesise a biological function associated to those cells. Our analysis suggests the participation of unexpected proteins in these pathways that are undetectable from the single-cell RNA sequencing data alone. The techniques described here are applicable to other organisms and tissues.
“Integrative genomic analysis of the bioprospection of regulators and accessory enzymes associated with cellulose degradation in a filamentous fungus (Trichoderma harzianum)”
Authors: Ferreira Filho Jaire A. , Horta Maria Augusta C. , dos Santos Clelton A. , Almeida Deborah A. , Murad Natália F. , Mendes Juliano S. , Sforça Danilo A. , Silva Claudio Benício C. , Crucello Aline , de Souza Anete P. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundUnveiling fungal genome structure and function reveals the potential biotechnological use of fungi.Trichoderma harzianumis a powerful CAZyme-producing fungus. We studied the genomic regions inT. harzianumIOC3844 containing CAZyme genes, transcription factors and transporters.ResultsWe used bioinformatics tools to mine theT. harzianumgenome for potential genomics, transcriptomics, and exoproteomics data and coexpression networks. The DNA was sequenced by PacBio SMRT technology for multiomics data analysis and integration. In total, 1676 genes were annotated in the genomic regions analyzed; 222 were identified as CAZymes inT. harzianumIOC3844. When comparing transcriptome data under cellulose or glucose conditions, 114 genes were differentially expressed in cellulose, with 51 being CAZymes. CLR2, a transcription factor physically and phylogenetically conserved inTrichodermaspp., was differentially expressed under cellulose conditions. The genes induced/repressed under cellulose conditions included those important for plant biomass degradation, including CIP2 of the CE15 family and a copper-dependent LPMO of the AA9 family.ConclusionsOur results provide new insights into the relationship between genomic organization and hydrolytic enzyme expression and regulation inT. harzianumIOC3844. Our results can improve plant biomass degradation, which is fundamental for developing more efficient strains and/or enzymatic cocktails to produce hydrolytic enzymes.
A structured collaborative approach to intervention design using a modified intervention mapping approach: a case study using the Management and Interventions for Asthma (MIA) project for South Asian children
Authors: Lakhanpaul Monica , Culley Lorraine , Robertson Noelle , Alexander Emma C. , Bird Deborah , Hudson Nicky , Johal Narynder , McFeeters Melanie , Hamlyn-Williams Charlotte , Manikam Logan , Boo Yebeen Ysabelle , Lakhanpaul Maya , Johnson Mark R. D. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundTo describe how using a combined approach of community-based participatory research and intervention mapping principles could inform the development of a tailored complex intervention to improve management of asthma for South Asian (SA) children; Management and Interventions for Asthma (MIA) study.MethodsA qualitative study using interviews, focus groups, workshops, and modified intervention mapping procedures to develop an intervention planning framework in an urban community setting in Leicester, UK. The modified form of intervention mapping (IM) included: systematic evidence synthesis; community study; families and healthcare professionals study; and development of potential collaborative intervention strategies. Participants in the community study were 63 SA community members and 12 key informants; in-depth semi-structured interviews involved 30 SA families, 14 White British (WB) families and 37 Healthcare Professionals (HCPs) treating SA children living with asthma; prioritisation workshops involved 145 SA, 6 WB and 37 HCP participants; 30 participants in finalisation workshops.ResultsTwo key principles were utilised throughout the development of the intervention; community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles and intervention mapping (IM) procedures. The CBPR approach allowed close engagement with stakeholders and generated valuable knowledge to inform intervention development. It accounted for diverse perceptions and experiences with regard to asthma and recognised the priorities of patients and their families/caregivers for service improvement. The ‘ACT on Asthma’ programme was devised, comprising four arms of an intervention strategy: education and training, clinical support, advice centre and raising awareness, to be co-ordinated by a central team.ConclusionsThe modified IM principles utilised in this study were systematic and informed by theory. The combined IM and participatory approach could be considered when tailoring interventions for other clinical problems within diverse communities. The IM approach to intervention development was however resource intensive. Working in meaningful collaboration with minority communities requires specific resources and a culturally competent methodology.
Risk factors associated with renal crescentic formation in pediatric Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Song Yong-Rui , Guo Wan-Liang , Sheng Mao , Lin Qiang , Zhu Xue-Ming , Li Xiao-Zhong 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
The long-term prognosis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) depends on the severity of renal involvement, and crescent formation is considered an important risk factor for poor prognosis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN). The objective of this study was to evaluate factors affecting crescent formation in children with HSPN.

Methods
Demographic factors, clinical characteristics, and laboratory data of children with HSPN with or without crescents were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors of crescent formation in HSPN.

Results
A total of 191 children with HSPN were enrolled in the study. There were 107 (56%) males and 84 (44%) females, with a median age of 7 years (range: 2 years–15 years). International Study of Kidney Disease in Children (ISKDC) grading was used to divide subjects into two groups: those without glomerular crescent formation (ISKDC grades I–II, n = 146 cases) and those with glomerular crescent formation (ISKDC grades III–V, n = 45 cases). Logistic regression analysis showed that higher urinary white blood cell (WBC) count (OR = 3.300; 95% CI, 1.119–9.739; P = 0.0306) and higher urinary microalbumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) (OR = 25.053; 95% CI, 1.354–463.708; P = 0.0305) were independent risk factors for the formation of crescents in HSPN. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of urinary WBC and ACR were 0.753 and 0.698 respectively, with the Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test (P = 0.0669, P > 0.05).

Conclusion
These results suggest that higher urinary WBC count and ACR should be strictly monitored for children with HSPN. Adequate clinical intervention for these risk factors may limit or prevent renal crescent formation.
Malaria in children and women of childbearing age: infection prevalence, knowledge and use of malaria prevention tools in the province of Nyanga, Gabon
Authors: Imboumy-Limoukou Roméo Karl , Maghendji-Nzondo Sydney , Sir-Ondo-Enguier Pater Noster , Niemczura De Carvalho Julie , Tsafack-Tegomo Nathalie Pernelle , Buekens Julie , Okouga Alain Prince , Mouinga-Ondeme Augustin , Kwedy Nolna Sylvie , Lekana-Douki Jean-Bernard 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
There is little information on the social perception of malaria and the use of preventative measures in Gabon, especially in rural areas. Adequate knowledge of malaria prevention and control can help in reducing the burden of malaria among vulnerable groups, particularly pregnant women and children under 5 years old living in malaria-endemic settings. This study was designed to assess the prevalence of malaria and the knowledge and attitude towards this disease in households in Nyanga Province.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess malaria knowledge, prevention practices and prevalence of the malaria infection in five departments of Nyanga Province. Plasmodial infection was diagnosed in children  ≤ 5 years of age and women aged 15-49 years using rapid diagnostic tests. A questionnaire was administered randomly to women aged 15–49 years and to the parents or guardians of children aged ≤ 5 years in 535 households during a 2-week period in March 2018. Overall, the respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of malaria, malaria prevention practices and malaria prevalence were evaluated and compared across the five departments.

Results
Data from a total of 1,307 participants were included in this study, including 631 women of childbearing age (61 of them pregnant) and 676 children. Practically the entire (97.7%) interviewed population had heard about malaria and attributed the cause of malaria to a mosquito bite (95.7%). This survey revealed that the reported rate of reported bed-net use was 73.3%. The study observed an average malaria parasite prevalence of 13.9%. All departmental capitals of Nyanga Province had a significant level of malaria infection except for Mayumba where no plasmodial infection was found.

Conclusion
High malaria prevalence is found in the departmental capital cities of Nyanga Province. This study reveals that respondents have a high knowledge of the malaria symptoms, its mode of transmission and preventive measures. Despite this high level of knowledge of the disease and its preventive measures, the incidence of malaria remains relatively high in this rural community highlighting the need for other types of interventions.