bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Role of the ClC-2 Chloride Channel in TGF-β1-induced Proliferation, Collagen Synthesis, and Collagen Gel Contraction Mediated by Human Conjunctival Fibroblasts
Authors: Sun Lixia , chui Renzhe , Huan Meng , Liu Xiwen , Liu Xin , Liu Kun , Jia Liang , Zheng Yajuan 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Excessive scar tissue can reduce postoperative survival of filtering blebs in patients with glaucoma. Previous studies have highlighted the role of chloride channels in wound healing. whereas The role of chloride channels in the formation of follicular scar has not been studied. Objectives: To investigate the effects of the ClC-2 chloride channel on scar formation of filtering blebs after glaucoma filtering surgery. Methods: We Inhibited ClC-2 chloride channels of Human Conjunctival Fibroblasts (HConFs) by transfecting HConFs with ClC-2 siRNA, Then cell proliferation, cycle and collagen synthesis of HConFs were measured. ClC-2 siRNA-transfected HConFs were cultured in type I collagen gels in the presence of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. Collagen gel contraction was evaluated based on the gel area. The expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in HConFs were assessed by western blotting and q-PCR. Results: TGF-β1induced cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, collagen synthesis, and collagen gel contraction in HConFs. TGF-β1 increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels but inhibited the expression of TIMPs. ClC-2 siRNA transfection inhibited TGF-β1-induced cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, collagen synthesis, and collagen gel contraction, mediated by HConFs. TGF-β1-induced increases in MMP-2 and MMP-9 were also inhibited by NPPB and ClC-2 siRNA transfection, but TIMP expression was increased by ClC-2 siRNA transfection. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that ClC-2 gene knockout inhibited TGF-β1-induced cell proliferation, collagen synthesis, and collagen gel contraction of HConFs by attenuating MMP-2 and MMP-9 production and by stimulating TIMP-1 production. Keywords: ClC-2 chloride channel; conjunctival fibroblasts; TGF-β1; wound heal
Responsiveness of Occupational Health Risk and Preventive Measures Practice by the Workers Employed in Tannery Occupation in Kanpur, India
Authors: Kashyap Gyan Chandra , Chokhandre Praveen , Singh Shri Kant 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Occupational health covers all aspects of health and safety in the workplace and has a strong focus on primary prevention of hazards. There are several health risks, such as respiratory problems, injuries/accidents, musculoskeletal disorders, cancers, mental health disorders, skin ailments, infectious diseases, and many more involved in the occupation, which exclusively depends on workplace conditions. Objectives: The objective of the study was to understand the extent of awareness about occupational health risks involved in tannery occupation and adopted preventive measures by the tannery workers of Kanpur, India. Methods: Information for the present research was strained from a cross-sectional household study of tannery workers in the Jajmau area of Kanpur, India. The survey was piloted through the period January-June 2015, and 284 samples were collected. This study has adopted a three-stage sampling design. The frequency distribution and cross-tabulation were used. The difference in the awareness of various morbidities was tested using the chi-square test. A logistic regression analysis was used to identify individual risk factors. Results: The prevalence of awareness of tannery work is very hazardous in nature varies from 73% to 93% among the tannery workers. Tannery workers having a middle-school level of education were 3.01 times more likely to be aware of the hazards as compared to the illiterate workers. Tannery workers aged 36 and above were 0.34 times were 0.58 times less likely to aware of a hazardous work environment. Tannery workers who belong to the younger cohort (16-24 years) reported a higher awareness of respiratory problems (38%), skin complaints (59%), and gastrointestinal issues (21%) than those aged 36 years and above. About one-third of Beamhouse workers (33%) and over a quarter (26%) of the wet finishing had moderate to high dermal contact with the chemicals. The highest use of gloves and masks is seen in Beamhouse work (12 & 13%). Conclusions: The outcomes of the study give a clear indication of the effect of the workstation environment on the health status of workers and require the use of adequate measures to improve the facilities and thereby the health status of tannery workers.
Cause and predictors of neonatal mortality among neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Units of public Hospitals in eastern Ethiopia: Facilities based prospective follow-up study
Authors: Desalew Assefa , Sintayehu Yitagesu , Teferi Nardos , Amare Firehiwot , Geda Bifitu , Worku Teshager , Abera Kebebush , Asefaw Abiyot 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: The first month is the most crucial period for child survival and neonatal mortality continues to remain high with little improvement over the years in Sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. This region shows the least progress to reducing this high mortality rate and it continues to be a significant public health issue. The facilities-based cause and predictors of neonatal death in the neonatal intensive care unit are not well documented in this study setting. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the cause and predictors of neonatal mortality among infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care units in Eastern Ethiopia. Method: Facilities-based prospective follow-up study was conducted among neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care units of public hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia from November to December 2018. Data was collected using a pre-tested, structured questionnaire and a follow-up checklist. The main outcomes and cause of death was set by pediatricians and residents. Epi-Data 3.1 and SPSS 25 Version software were used for data entry and analysis. Binary logistic regression was used to find out the predictors of facilities-based neonatal mortality. Result: The proportion of facilities-based neonatal mortality was 20%. The top five causes of death were a complication of prematurity (49%), birth asphyxia (37.8%), infection (32.6%), meconium aspiration syndrome (17.3%) and congenital malformation (6.1%). Low birth weight, preterm births, length of stay in NICU , low 5 minute Apgar score , hyperthermia and initiation of feeding were predictors of neonatal death among infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care units in public hospitals, Eastern Ethiopia. Conclusion In summary, the proportion of facilities-based neonatal deaths was unacceptably high. The main causes of death were preventable and treatable. Hence, improving ANC and this would lead to early detection, anticipating high-risk newborns and timely intervention is very essential. Furthermore, early initiation of feeding and a better referral linkage to tertiary facilities could lead to a reduction of neonatal death in this setting.
Comparison of Therapeutic Effects of Modified Stoppa Approach and Rectus Lateral Approach on Treating Pelvic Acetabular Fractures
Authors: Wang Xujin , Yang Jiazhao , Xu Lei , Fang Shiyuan 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of modified Stoppa approach and lateral rectus abdominis in the treatment of pelvic acetabular fractures.Methods The clinical data of 30 patients with acetabular fractures with ipsilateral pelvic fractures were collected from March 2010 to August 2017. Fifteen patients were treated with modified Stopp incision approach (group A) Abdominal rectus lateral incision approach (group B). According to the surgical approach were divided into group A and group B, 15 cases, A group improved Stoppa approach, B rectus abdominis lateral approach.Results Compared with Stoppa approach, the operation time, intraoperative blood loss and postoperative drainage volume (P <0.05) were obtained by lateral rectus incision. There was no significant difference between the two surgical groups in terms of postoperative complications and fracture reduction. But the rectus abdominis lateral incision approach can fully reveal the acetabular anterior column and the quadratic body, can face under the reduction and fixation of the acetabular fracture sacroiliac joint and iliac crest fractures, and surgery revealed simple, less damage, less surgical complications.Conclusions The rectus abdominis lateral incision approach is the treatment of pelvic and acetabular fractures, especially with sacroiliac joint iliac crest fractures in the ideal surgical approach.
A comparative study of partial-threaded cannulated screws and double-threaded cannulated screws in the fixation of vertical femoral neck fractures
Authors: Zhang Yuelei , Wang Gang , Zhang Wei 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background This study purposed to compare the partial- threaded cannulated screws (PTCS) and the double-threaded cannulated screws (DTCS) in vertical shear femoral neck fractures both clinically and biomechanically. Methods Clinally, the radiographs of 81 patients with Pauwels Ⅲ femoral neck fractures, including 54 fractures fixed with PTCS and 27 fractures fixed with DTCS were analyzed. Complications consist of fixation failure (nail withdrawal, obvious fracture displacement, varus deformity or femoral neck shortening), bony nonunion and avascular necrosis (AVN) were determined. Biomechanically, twenty femur synthetic bones were equally divided and made to a vertical femoral neck fracture model, then fixed with three parallel PTCSs or DTCSs respectively. All specimens were tested for axial stiffness and a maximum load to failure with a loading rate of 2 mm/min. Results Clinically , 22 fractures in the PTCS group experienced fixation failure, including 19 nail withdrawal, 18 femoral neck shortening, 14 varus deformity and 8 obvious fracture displacement; while only 5 fractures showed up with fixation failure in the DTCS group, including 3 nail withdrawal, 4 femoral neck shortening, 4 varus deformity and 1 obvious fracture displacement. Additionally, 11 fractures in the PTCS group had nonunion while only 3 in the DTCS group and 9 fractures with AVN in the PTCS group while only 2 in the DTCS group. Biomechanically, The axial stiffness of DTCS was 152.89±22.74 N/mm, greater than PTCS (134.68±26.61), moreover, the failure load in DTCS was significantly greater than PTCS (1148.11±124.80 vs 795.88±162.50). Conclusion DTCS may exert more advantages than PTCS for vertical femoral neck fractures, including stronger fixation stability, lower rate of fixation failure and nonunion.
Incomplete Eradication of Persistent Infection May Impede Union: Our Experience in Treating Fracture Non-Unions with Allogenic MSC
Authors: Dilogo Ismail Hadisoebroto , Hanitya Alberto Lastiko , Pawitan Jeanne Adiwinata , Liem Isabella Kurnia , Yulisa Nyimas Diana 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Introduction : Non-union remains a major clinical challenge for orthopaedic surgeons, as the treatments are associated with risks for complications, and sometimes multiple surgeries are required. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been found to aid in osteogenesis and fracture healing; however, the number of studies on MSC application for treating non-unions is still sparse. We present a translational study of 8 subjects treated with MSC implantation, along with those considered as standard treatments in treating non-unions. To our knowledge, this is the most extensive clinical study on the use of MSCs to treat fracture non-unions. Methods: We performed 20x10 6 units of MSC implantations derived from adipose tissue, bone marrow, and umbilical cord on subjects diagnosed with fracture non-union of the long bone, along with internal fixation and hydroxyapatite-calcium sulphate (HA-CaSO 4 ) pellets. We excluded pathological fractures, subjects with immunological deficiencies (type II diabetes mellitus, and HIV/AIDS), and subjects with a history of immunosuppressive therapies. All subjects were assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) or Lower Extremities Functional Scale (LEFS), and visual analog score (VAS). Serial radiological images were also assessed using Tiedeman and Lane-Sandhu scoring to determine union. Follow up assessments were performed every three months for at least 12 months or until clinical and radiological union was achieved. Results: Four (50%) out of eight subjects developed union in a median of five (3-12) months. There was a reduction of VAS, from a median of 1 (0-6) to 0 (0-4), and an increase in mean LEFS/DASH of 56.25 ± 10.71 to 65 ± 22.72. However, the infection was identified in 3 (37.5%) subjects. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was identified in two (25%) subjects, while one was infected with Escherichia coli . No other adverse events occurred during the follow-up period. Conclusion: Allogenic MSC implantation can be used as a potential and safe therapy for fracture non-union. However, the presence of infection may interfere with bone healing; thus, thorough eradication of infection must be ensured to achieve fracture union. Further clinical studies are required to investigate the safety and efficacy of allogeneic MSC implantation.
Imputation benchmark of β-value and M-value from DNA methylation data under different missing data mechanisms.
Authors: Lena Pietro Di , Sala Claudia , Prodi Andrea , Nardini Christine 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: High-throughput technologies enable the cost-effective collection and analysis of DNA methylation data throughout the human genome. This naturally entails missing values management that can complicate the analysis of the data. Several general and specific imputation methods are suitable for DNA methylation data. However, there are no detailed studies of their performances under different missing data mechanisms -(completely) at random or not- and different representations of DNA methylation levels (β and M-value). Results: We make an extensive analysis of the imputation performances of seven imputation methods on simulated missing completely at random (MCAR), missing at random (MAR) and missing not at random (MNAR) methylation data. We further consider imputation performances on the β- and M-value popular representations of methylation levels. Overall, β -values enable better imputation performances than M-values. Imputation accuracy is lower for mid-range β -values, while it is generally more accurate for values at the extremes of the β -value range. The MAR values distribution is on the average more dense in the mid-range in comparison to the expected β -value distribution. As a consequence, MAR values are on average harder to impute. Conclusions: The results of the analysis provide guidelines for the most suitable imputation approaches for DNA methylation data under different representations of DNA methylation levels and different missing data mechanisms.
Risk profile of Qatari women treated for infertility, 2018
Authors: Musa Sarah Rashid , Osman Sherif 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: female infertility is a multifactorial condition constituting a worldwide public health problem. Although many potential risk factors of female infertility can be preventable, there is no much attention directed toward preconception care. Aim: to explore the risk profile of infertility among Qatari women and compare risk factors distribution among primary vs. secondary infertility. Methodology: A hospital-based case control study was conducted from September 17th, 2017- February 10th, 2018. Cases (n=136) were enrolled from infertility clinics and controls (pregnant women, n=272), were enrolled from antenatal clinic, Women Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation. Interview questionnaire was utilized to collect data about sociodemographic, history of marriage, lifestyle, menstrual, obstetric, gynaecological, medical, medication, surgical, birth-control, sexual and family, depression screening using PHQ-2 score, and anthropometric measurements. Logistic regression was used to identify the associated factors to infertility. Statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results: 43 primary and 93 secondary infertility cases were included. Risk factors were age>35 years (OR=3.7), second-hand smoking (OR=2.44), steady weight gain (OR=4.65), recent weight gain (OR=4.87), menstrual cycle irregularities (OR=4.20), fallopian tube blockage (OR=5.45), and symptoms suggestive of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including chronic lower abdominal/pelvic pain (OR=3.46), abnormal vaginal discharge (OR=3.32) and dyspareunia (OR=7.04). Predictive factors for secondary infertility were; longer time from previous conception (OR=5.8), history of stillbirth (OR=2.63) or miscarriage (OR=2.11) and postpartum infection (OR=3.75). Protective factors were higher education level (OR=0.44), higher income (OR=0.17), and awareness of fertility window (OR=0.33) Conclusion: awareness, prevention, and early management of modifiable risk factors is important for women at pre/post-conception periods.
Dental care for drug users in Norway: Dental professionals’ attitudes to treatment and experiences with interprofessional collaboration
Authors: Hovden Ewa , Ansteinsson Vibeke , Klepaker Ingrid Volden , Widström Eeva , Skudutyte-Rystad Rasa 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Objective: The present study aimed to assess dental professionals’ attitudes and experiences related to the dental treatment of drug users and experiences with interprofessional collaboration with the rehabilitation institutions. Materials and methods: The study population comprised 141 dentists and dental hygienists (response rate 73%) working in the Public Dental Service (PDS) in three counties in Norway. All of the participants completed an electronically distributed questionnaire on existing practices and experiences regarding dental treatment for drug users and interprofessional collaboration with rehabilitation institutions (RIs). The Norwegian Centre for Research Data (NSD) approved the study. Results: The majority of dentists and dental hygienists in the present study used more time for examination and treatment of drug users compared to other patient groups. Over 70% of dental clinicians considered drug users as demanding patients due to fear, missing appointments, and poor compliance with oral hygiene advice. The overall perception was that drug users often had higher expectations of dental treatment than what could be defined as necessary care and provided by the PDS. One-third of dental professionals reported that they were satisfied with the collaboration they had with RIs . Most of the respondents agreed that personnel from rehabilitation institutions could positively influence interprofessional collaboration by having sufficient knowledge of drug users statutory rights to free of charge dental treatment, as well as by close follow-up and motivation of patients before dental treatment. Conclusions: Dental professionals perceived the management of drug users as demanding due to dental fear, difficulties in coping with appointments, poor compliance to preventive measures, and disagreement between dental treatment defined as necessary and drug users’ expectations. Organizational barriers regarding leadership, accessibility, and collaborative routines, as well as lack of interprofessional communication, suggest current models of health care delivery to drug users need reviewing.
Did the extended coverage policy contribute to alleviating socioeconomic inequality in untreated dental caries of both children and adolescents in South Korea?
Authors: Shin Bo-Mi , Jung Se-Hwang , Kim Myong-Hee , Ryu Jae-In 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Dental sealants have been covered by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) since December 2009 in South Korea. This study aims to determine whether the socioeconomic inequality in untreated dental caries decreased after implementing the extended coverage policy for dental sealant. Methods The data were derived from the fourth (2007–2009) and sixth (2013–2015) waves of the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) conducted by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). Dental caries and sealant experience by income quartiles were tested using the Rao-Scott chi-squared test. In order to examine socioeconomic inequalities and their trends over time, the prevalence ratios (PRs), slope index of inequality (SII), and relative index of inequality (RII) were estimated for each wave and age group. All analyses were conducted using SAS version 9.3. Results The adjusted PRs of untreated dental caries and sealants in the poorest in the aged 6-11 group were significantly higher and lower, respectively, compared to the most affluent quartile group for the fourth wave; however, all significant differences disappeared for the sixth wave. The gap between the lowest and the highest was similar for the aged 12-18 group but the statistical significance of the PRs was still maintained for the sixth wave. Children showed decreases in both SII and RII over time so its significance disappeared. The SII among adolescents decreased over time, while the RII increased both in untreated dental caries and sealants. Conclusions This study found that the NHIS coverage expansion of dental care had a positive effect on overall status in dental health among children and adolescents. However, younger children benefited more in terms of inequalities. Our findings indicate that strategies to enhance access to preventive dental services should consider the differential effects for the vulnerable population in terms of socioeconomic status and age from the beginning stage of the policy.
Increased MMP2 contributes to the diagnosis and prognosis of lung cancer
Authors: Han Liping , Sheng Baowei , Zeng Qingdi , Yao Wei , Jiang Qiufang 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) has been found to be correlated with the occurrence and development of lung cancer; the aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance and prognosis value of MMP2 expression in lung cancer. Methods: The expression of MMP2 in lung cancer tissues was tested by immunohistochemistry and its serum level was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The expression of MMP2 was higher in lung cancer tissues and serum of lung cancer patients, and increased MMP2 was associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, advanced stage and postoperative survival time (p<0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of serum MMP2 for distinguishing lung cancer from lung benign diseases were 96.51% and 65.85%; and for distinguishing lung cancer from normal individuals were 97.67% and 75%. Conclusions: Increased serum MMP2 could be considered as a potential molecular biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis of lung cancer.