bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Racial Microaggression, Overt Discrimination, and Distress: (In)Direct Associations With Psychological Adjustment
Authors: Lui P. Priscilla
Published: February 2020

Scholars in diverse disciplines have examined the associations between psychological adjustment and microaggression, and overt discrimination. It remains unclear whether the roles of microaggression in adjustment outcomes can be differentiated from the roles of overt discrimination and neuroticism. I examined the extent to which racial microaggression explained unique variances of negative affect, alcohol consumption, and drinking problems while controlling for overt discrimination and neuroticism among African American, Asian American, and Latinx American college students ( N = 713). Intervening roles of psychological distress linking microaggression and overt discrimination to adjustment outcomes were also tested. Among African Americans, microaggression and overt discrimination did not consistently predict psychological adjustment. Among Asian and Latinx Americans, microaggression and overt discrimination predicted negative affect via psychological distress. Microaggression also explained the variances of alcohol use outcomes among Asian Americans. Findings are discussed in the context of an acute racism reactions model and underscore the importance of considering overt discrimination and microaggression simultaneously as determinants of psychological adjustment.
Emerging Adult Siblings of Individuals with Schizophrenia: Experiences with Family Crisis
Authors: Graves Jillian M. , Marsack-Topolewski Christina N. , Shapiro Janet
Published: February 2020

The developmental process of siblings of individuals with schizophrenia can be complicated due to crises, as well as numerous individual and familial changes. This qualitative study uses grounded theory techniques to analyze the lived experiences of emerging adult siblings (ages 18–30 years) of individuals with schizophrenia. We conducted 23 one-on-one intensive interviews with sibling participants, using open-ended questions and prompts. Based on the results of the analysis, themes emerged from interview responses related to the influence of the family’s coping style during times of crisis and the quality of the family relationships. Findings suggested that parental attunement was correlated with relational closeness in the family, even if parents struggled to master the tasks related to crisis management. To assist siblings and their families in maintaining relationships and to assist with coping, practitioners need to support families around developing developmentally sensitive coping techniques that include all members of the family.
Families Are Socially Constructed: Pragmatic Implications for Researchers
Authors: Sanner Caroline , Ganong Lawrence , Coleman Marilyn
Published: February 2020

Scholars have long recognized that the boundaries of family membership and definitions of family relationships are socially constructed. The social construction of family membership, and the accompanying ambiguity surrounding family language and labels, particularly in complex families who have experienced divorce, remarriage, and other structural transitions, creates obstacles for recruiting study participants and for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. In this paper, we explore how the increasing complexity of family structure and family membership can pose pragmatic challenges for researchers. Using our own work as examples, as well as the research of others, we share methodological approaches to addressing these challenges within both qualitative and quantitative research designs. We argue that giving primacy to respondents’ relational definitions changes how researchers approach their projects, stimulates innovative theoretical thinking, and advances understanding of how individuals and families construct their social worlds.
Leisure-time Physical Activity and Fruit and Vegetable Intake of Young Adult Millennials
Authors: Moyer Susan M. , Sharts-Hopko Nancy , Oliver Tracy
Published: February 2020

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and fruit and vegetable intake (FVI) behaviors and to examine relationships between biological, sociocultural, and psychological personal factors and these behaviors among young adult Millennials aged 20 years to 32 years. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed on data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Of the 1,137 respondents, 47% met the recommendations for LTPA, and only 13% and 17% met the recommendations for intake of fruits and vegetables, respectively. Engagement in LTPA was associated with being male, race/ethnicity, and increased education and income. Obesity, measured by body mass index, and poor perceived health status were associated with not meeting the recommendations for LTPA. Increased education was associated with meeting the recommendations for vegetable intake. No other regression models were significant. These findings suggest contemporary young adults would benefit from health promotion efforts.
Estimating Social Variation in the Health Effects of Changes in Health Care Expenditure
Authors: Love-Koh James , Cookson Richard , Claxton Karl , Griffin Susan
Published: February 2020

Background. A common aim of health expenditure is to reduce unfair inequalities in health. Although previous research has attempted to estimate the total health effects of changes in health expenditure, little is known about how changes affect different groups in the population. Methods. We propose a general framework for disaggregating the total health effects of changes in health expenditure by social groups. This can be performed indirectly when the estimate of the total health effect has first been disaggregated by a secondary factor (e.g., disease area) that can be linked to social characteristics. This is illustrated with an application to the English National Health Service. Evidence on the health effects of expenditure across 23 disease areas is combined with data on the distribution of disease-specific hospital utilization by age, sex, and area-level deprivation. Results. We find that the health effects from NHS expenditure changes are produced largely through disease areas in which individuals from more deprived areas account for a large share of health care utilization, namely, respiratory and neurologic disease and mental health. We estimate that 26% of the total health effect from a change in expenditure would accrue to the fifth of the population living in the most deprived areas, compared with 14% to the fifth living in the least deprived areas. Conclusions. Our approach can be useful for evaluating the health inequality impacts of changing health budgets or funding alternative health programs. However, it requires robust estimates of how health expenditure affects health outcomes. Our example analysis also relied on strong assumptions about the relationship between health care utilization and health effects across population groups.
Treated versus Untreated Aggregate Bases for Flexible Pavements: Nationwide Comparative Case Study
Authors: Souliman Mena I. , GC Hemant , Isied Mayzan M. , Walubita Lubinda F.
Published: February 2020

Aggregates constitute a major part of pavement construction. The strength, durability, and quality of the aggregate affects the overall performance of the pavement structure. Materials sourced near a construction site do not always meet the strength required for pavement construction, however, and haulage of aggregates of the required quality is often costly. For better use of locally available materials, stabilizing agents such as lime, cement, asphalt cement, and fly ash are often used to enhance the strength of the local aggregates. Pavement performance is influenced by both the structure itself and the layer materials present in it. The stiffness of the base layer, for instance, influences the tensile strain in the asphalt layer and compressive strains in the subgrade soil. The tensile strains at the bottom of the asphalt layer and compressive strains in the top zone of the subgrade soils are the main response components affecting fatigue cracking and rutting, respectively. In this study, field performance [rutting, cracking, and roughness measured in relation to the International Roughness Index (IRI)] of pavement sections with treated and untreated base layers were compared to determine the effects of stabilizing agents. In relation to fatigue cracking and pavement surface roughness, the treated sections outperformed the untreated sections. The average values of all three distresses showed better performance for the treated base layer sections with fatigue cracking averaging 2.2 times lower than the untreated sections. The combined rutting and IRI of the treated base layer sections averaged about 0.10 in. and 1.4 times lower than those of the untreated base layer sections, respectively.
Perception of Public Transport Quality of Service among Regular Private Vehicle Users in Madrid, Spain
Authors: de Oña Juan , Estévez Esperanza , de Oña Rocío
Published: February 2020

Urban traffic levels can be reduced by drawing travelers away from private vehicles (PV) over to using public transport (PT). This modal change can be achieved by either introducing restrictions on PVs or by introducing measures which increase people’s satisfaction with PT. Many studies have shown that quality of service affects customer satisfaction which, in turn, influences the behavioral intentions toward the service; however, these studies have mainly concentrated on PT users. This paper intends to identify the main attributes which influence the perception PV users have about the PT services provided in Madrid (Spain). Ordinal logit models have been applied to an online panel survey with a sample size of 500 regular PV users. To achieve a comprehensive analysis and to deal with heterogeneity in perceptions, 15 models have been developed for the entire sample and for 14 user segments. The results indicate that the inhabitants are satisfied with PT in Madrid and that the most important PT service attributes for PV users are frequency, speed, and intermodality. Frequency is an important attribute for all the segments, whereas speed and intermodality are important for most of the segments. An analysis by segments has identified attributes which, although not important in most cases, are relevant for specific segments. Another interesting finding was that there are two attributes (accessibility and individual space) that were not found to be important in any segment. Findings from this study can be used to develop policies and recommendations for persuading more PV users to use the PT services.
The Use and Meaning of the Term Obesity in Rural Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Batsis John A. , Zagaria Alexandra B. , Brooks Emma , Clark Matthew M. , Phelan Sean , Lopez-Jimenez Francisco , Bartels Stephen J. , Rotenberg Sivan , Carpenter-Song Elizabeth
Published: February 2020

The term “obesity” is associated with societal stigma and discrimination. Eight individual semi-structured interviews and five focus groups with 29 community-dwelling, rural older adults with obesity, seven primary care clinicians, and four rural community leaders were completed using purposive and snowball sampling. Clinicians perceived that older adults are less affected by obesity stigma than younger adults, yet this was not observed by community leaders; however, older participants with obesity reported that they often felt ashamed and/or stigmatized because of their weight. There was also a disconnect between clinician and older adult understanding of obesity. For older adults with obesity, the word “obesity” was associated with negative connotations. Just as physiological aspects of obesity persist into older adulthood, so do psychological aspects, such as perceptions of stigma. The use of the word “obesity” in medical settings may hinder communication between clinician and older participants. Heightened awareness may change the dialogue around obesity.
Contextual Motivations for Undergraduates’ Entrepreneurial Intentions in Emerging Asian Economies
Authors: Looi Kim Hoe
Published: February 2020

The development of theories to explain and predict the phenomena of entrepreneurship is essential to various stakeholders. Recent entrepreneurship literature has suggested that values motivate entrepreneurial intention, and entrepreneurship is contextual. This study examines contextual motivations of business undergraduates’ entrepreneurial intention across selected emerging Asian economies. The research methodology is quantitative. The measurement instrument consists of items from Portrait Values Questionnaire and Entrepreneurial Intent Scale to collect data from 378 matched business undergraduates from Malaysia, Indonesia and China. Structural equation modelling technique tested the hypotheses for overall sample, and measurement invariance was checked prior to multi-group analysis. The results suggest that the openness-to-change values shape Malaysian and Indonesian undergraduates’ entrepreneurial intentions, whereas achievement values shape Chinese undergraduates’ entrepreneurial intentions. The findings add to existing theory and evidence that argue for the importance of contextual motivations. It also enriches understanding of entrepreneurship in emerging Asian economies. Practical implications for entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurship development programmes are discussed.
Skeletal Muscle Regeneration in Advanced Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Bohnert Kathryn L. , Hastings Mary K. , Sinacore David R. , Johnson Jeffrey E. , Klein Sandra E. , McCormick Jeremy J. , Gontarz Paul , Meyer Gretchen A.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Decreased lean muscle mass in the lower extremity in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is thought to contribute to altered joint loading, immobility, and disability. However, the mechanism behind this loss is unknown and could derive from a reduction in size of myofibers (atrophy), destruction of myofibers (degeneration), or both. Degenerative changes require participation of muscle stem (satellite) cells to regenerate lost myofibers and restore lean mass. Determining the degenerative state and residual regenerative capacity of DPN muscle will inform the utility of regeneration-targeted therapeutic strategies.

Methods:

Biopsies were acquired from 2 muscles in 12 individuals with and without diabetic neuropathy undergoing below-knee amputation surgery. Biopsies were subdivided for histological analysis, transcriptional profiling, and satellite cell isolation and culture.

Results:

Histological analysis revealed evidence of ongoing degeneration and regeneration in DPN muscles. Transcriptional profiling supports these findings, indicating significant upregulation of regeneration-related pathways. However, regeneration appeared to be limited in samples exhibiting the most severe structural pathology as only extremely small, immature regenerated myofibers were found. Immunostaining for satellite cells revealed a significant decrease in their relative frequency only in the subset with severe pathology. Similarly, a reduction in fusion in cultured satellite cells in this group suggests impairment in regenerative capacity in severe DPN pathology.

Conclusion:

DPN muscle exhibited features of degeneration with attempted regeneration. In the most severely pathological muscle samples, regeneration appeared to be stymied and our data suggest that this may be partly due to intrinsic dysfunction of the satellite cell pool in addition to extrinsic structural pathology (eg, nerve damage).

Clinical Relevance:

Restoration of DPN muscle function for improved mobility and physical activity is a goal of surgical and rehabilitation clinicians. Identifying myofiber degeneration and compromised regeneration as contributors to dysfunction suggests that adjuvant cell-based therapies may improve clinical outcomes.
Probabilistic Learning in Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Luman Marjolein , Janssen Tieme W. P. , Bink Marleen , van Mourik Rosa , Maras Athanasios , Oosterlaan Jaap
Published: February 2020

Objective: The current study examined instrumental learning in ADHD. Method: A total of 58 children with ADHD and 58 typically developing (TD) children performed a probabilistic learning task using three reward probability conditions (100%, 85%, 70% reward). After a learning phase, application of what was learned was assessed in a test phase. Results: Results showed that children with ADHD performed less accurate compared with TD children during the learning phase, particularly in the 100% and 85% reward probability conditions. These findings were accompanied by a blunted learning rate in the first few task trials. Furthermore, children with ADHD showed poorer application of what was learned. Conclusion: To conclude, children with ADHD show initial learning problems, but increased performance in a similar manner as TD children independent of the probability of reward, although they fail to apply their knowledge. Findings are of clinical relevance as the application of knowledge is important to successfully adapt to daily challenges in life.
Relative Unemployment, Political Information, and the Job Approval Ratings of State Governors and Legislatures
Authors: Cohen Jeffrey E.
Published: February 2020

Research finds that voters benchmark the state's unemployment level to the nation's when holding state policy makers accountable. Yet benchmarking requires some voter knowledge if the standard is to be applied correctly as an accountability rule. This article leverages the fact that voters have more knowledge about their state governors than legislatures assess how much knowledge is necessary for holding these policy makers accountable. Using pooled Cooperative Congressional Election Study data from 2006 to 2016, results find that knowledge has stronger mediating effects for the state legislature than governor. Furthermore, despite the low knowledge levels among voters about the state legislature, collectively there appears to be enough knowledge to hold that policymaking body accountable. The conclusion offers directions for future research.
Here But Not Here
Authors: Swenson Sue
Published: February 2020

The role of parents in placement decisions is not mentioned in the foundational paper written by Agran et al. This essay explores the various ways parents are absent in the bureaucracy and in the everyday life of schools and communities. Some of the principles of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act are thought to be at the heart of the problem, along with attitudes of ableism and a general neglect of human rights. An inclusive education of the heart is recommended.
Perceived Risks, Benefits, and Interest in Participating in Environmental Health Studies That Share Personal Exposure Data: A U.S. Survey of Prospective Participants
Authors: Udesky Julia O. , Boronow Katherine E. , Brown Phil , Perovich Laura J. , Brody Julia Green
Published: February 2020

Little is known about the willingness of prospective study participants to share environmental health data. To fill this gap, we conducted a hypothetical vignette survey among 1,575 women who have volunteered to be contacted about breast cancer studies. Eighty-three percent were interested in participating in the environmental studies, with little difference whether data were restricted to the research team, shared with approved researchers, or publicly accessible. However, participants somewhat preferred controlled access for children’s data. Respondents were more interested in studies with environmental rather than biological samples and more interested when researchers would return personal results, a practice of increasing importance. They were more reluctant to share location or to participate if studies involved electronic medical records. Many expressed concerns about privacy, particularly security breaches, but reidentification risks were mentioned infrequently, indicating that this topic should be discussed during informed consent.
The Men’s Group at St. Pius V: A Case Study of a Parish-Based Voluntary Partner Abuse Intervention Program
Authors: Davis Maxine , Jonson-Reid Melissa , Dahm Charles , Fernandez Bruno , Stoops Charles , Sabri Bushra
Published: February 2020

Literature on Latino men and intervention for intimate partner violence/abuse (IPV/A) is slim. Over 100 men have voluntarily sought help for IPV/A perpetration from “The Men’s Group” (TMG) at St. Pius V parish in Chicago, IL (US) and remained engaged for extended periods. Given the rarity of prolonged non-court mandated engagement in batterer intervention programs (BIPs), a case study was conducted to explore how TMG functions. Drawing on multiple data sources, this study examined development and implementation of TMG, while also investigating contextual factors, motivators and facilitators of participants’ involvement. Data revealed that TMG functions within a supportive community context by using a mixture of traditional techniques and innovative practices, creating a unique treatment modality. The program was found to be culturally-sensitive and spirituality-based. Reasons for initial attendance varied but included: (1) fear of losing or actual loss of their partner/family; (2) acknowledging a problem and desiring to change for self or others; and (3) a desire to reach inner peace. Three themes shed light on why men remain engaged in TMG, including: (1) being met with respect by facilitators; (2) experiencing TMG as “family”; and (3) gaining benefits. Reliance upon the criminal justice system is not enough to address IPV/A perpetration. This program shows promise as an alternative or supplement to traditional BIPs, which typically rely on clients being court-mandated to attend treatment. Given the widespread nature of IPV/A, understanding the operation of potential community-based alternatives or supplements to BIPs is critical in widening access to treatment.
Meeting the New FDA Standard for Accuracy of Self-Monitoring Blood Glucose Test Systems Intended for Home Use by Lay Users
Authors: Katz Laurence B. , Stewart Lorna , King Danielle , Cameron Hilary
Published: February 2020

The OneTouch Verio Reflect blood glucose monitor (BGM) has market clearance in several countries based in part on fulfilling the lay user and system accuracy criteria described in ISO15197:2015. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not recognize the accuracy criteria in ISO15197 as a basis for gaining regulatory clearance for these devices. The current study evaluates the BGM using the accuracy guidelines issued by the agency for self-monitoring blood glucose test systems for over-the-counter use. Glucose results were accurate vs comparator over a wide glucose range and met lay user and glucose accuracy criteria at extreme glucose values as described in the FDA guidance.

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03851549
Removal of Painful Os Paracuneiforme: A Case Report
Authors: Kurashige Toshinori
Published: February 2020

Os paracuneiforme (OPC) is an extremely rare accessory bone located either medial to the medial cuneiform or to the naviculocuneiform joint. Although OPC often appears on the list of accessory ossicles, there are few reported cases regarding this bone. OPC can cause symptoms that require surgical intervention, but only 2 surgically treated cases have been published in the literature in English. Here, we report the case of a patient with painful OPC who was surgically treated. The patient showed no restriction in his daily living and recreational activities 6 months postoperatively. This is the first report showing not only preoperative and postoperative radiographs, but also preoperative CT images, photographs of intraoperative findings, and the resected ossicle.

Level of Evidence: Level V
A Synchronized Circadian Clock Enhances Early Chondrogenesis
Authors: Alagha M. Abdulhadi , Vágó Judit , Katona Éva , Takács Roland , van der Veen Daan , Zákány Róza , Matta Csaba
Published: February 2020

Objective

Circadian rhythms in cartilage homeostasis are hypothesized to temporally segregate and synchronize the activities of chondrocytes to different times of the day, and thus may provide an efficient mechanism by which articular cartilage can recover following physical activity. While the circadian clock is clearly involved in chondrocyte homeostasis in health and disease, it is unclear as to what roles it may play during early chondrogenesis.

Design

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the rhythmic expression of the core circadian clock was detectable at the earliest stages of chondrocyte differentiation, and if so, whether a synchronized expression pattern of chondrogenic transcription factors and developing cartilage matrix constituents was present during cartilage formation.

Results

Following serum shock, embryonic limb bud–derived chondrifying micromass cultures exhibited synchronized temporal expression patterns of core clock genes involved in the molecular circadian clock. We also observed that chondrogenic marker genes followed a circadian oscillatory pattern. Clock synchronization significantly enhanced cartilage matrix production and elevated SOX9, ACAN, and COL2A1 gene expression. The observed chondrogenesis-promoting effect of the serum shock was likely attributable to its synchronizing effect on the molecular clockwork, as co-application of small molecule modulators (longdaysin and KL001) abolished the stimulating effects on extracellular matrix production and chondrogenic marker gene expression.

Conclusions

Results from this study suggest that a functional molecular clockwork plays a positive role in tissue homeostasis and histogenesis during early chondrogenesis.
Exploring G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling in Primary Pancreatic Islets
Authors: Röthe Juliane , Kraft Robert , Schöneberg Torsten , Thor Doreen
Published: February 2020

Background

Targeting G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in pancreatic cells is feasible to modulate glucose-induced insulin secretion. Because pancreatic islets consist of several cell types and GPCRs can couple to more than one G-protein family, results obtained in pancreatic cell lines do not always match the response in primary cells or intact islets. Therefore, we set out to establish a protocol to analyze second messenger activation in mouse pancreatic islets.

Results

Activation of Gq/11-coupled receptor expressed in primary β cells increased the second messenger IP1 in an accumulation assay. Applying a Gq/11 protein inhibitor completely abolished this signal. Activation of the V1 vasopressin and ghrelin receptors, predominantly expressed in the less abundant alpha and delta cells, was not sufficient to induce a significant IP1 increase in this assay. However, fura-2-based fluorescence imaging showed calcium signals upon application of arginine vasopressin or ghrelin within intact pancreatic islets. Using the here established protocol we were also able to determine changes in intracellular cAMP levels induced by receptors coupling to Gs and Gi/o proteins.

Conclusions

Detection of the second messengers IP1, cAMP, and calcium, can be used to reliably analyze GPCR activation in intact islets.
Patient satisfaction with the implementation of electronic medical Records in the Western Region, Saudi Arabia, 2018
Authors: Wali R. M. , Alqahtani R. M. , Alharazi S. K. , Bukhari S. A. , Quqandi S. M.
Published: February 2020

Background

The implementation of the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system initiated a significant transition in the healthcare system from traditional paper-based medical records to a digital version. Though EMR offers several benefits compared to Paper Medical Records (PMR), patient satisfaction with the EMR has been an area of concern. The objective of this study is to explore patient satisfaction with the EMR compared to the PMR of patients attending five Primary Healthcare Centers in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with patients who attended five Primary Health Care centers (PHCs) in the Western Region during 2018. A sample of 377 participants was invited to complete a self-developed structured questionnaire with multiple choice and Likert Scale questions. The questionnaire was distributed to participants in the PHC waiting areas.

Results

The sample size realized as (n = 377) participants, the majority (65.0%) were female. The overall patient satisfaction was 3.708. Patient satisfaction with the EMR was statistically significant compared to the PMR (3.7241 vs. 3.6919, p < 0.001). Several factors provided evidence of the overall satisfaction with the implementation of the EMR, including an increase in physician attention during the clinical consultation (82.3%), increased explanation of tests and medication (85.8%), increased time spent with the patient during the consultation (80.4%) and increased active listening by the physician (77.3%). Besides, the patients felt confident to ask the physician question related to health during clinical consultation (84.0%).

Conclusion

Patient satisfaction during the clinical consultation and overall satisfaction with various PHC services improved with the implementation of EMR.
Efficacy and safety of calcitonin-gene-related peptide binding monoclonal antibodies for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine – an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Hong , Li Gai-gai , Nie Hao , Feng Yang-yang , Guo Guang-yu , Guo Wen-liang , Tang Zhou-ping
Published: February 2020

Background

Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders that leads to disabilities. However, the conventional drug therapy for migraine might be unsatisfactory at times. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of calcitonin-gene-related peptide binding monoclonal antibody (CGRP mAb) for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine, and provide high-quality clinical evidence for migraine therapy.

Methods

A systematic electronic database search was conducted to identify the potentially relevant studies. Two independent authors performed data extraction and quality appraisal. Mean difference (MD) and risk ratio (RR) were pooled for continuous and dichotomous data, respectively. The significance levels, weighted effect sizes and homogeneity of variance were calculated.

Results

Eleven high-quality randomized control trials that collectively included 4402 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Compared to placebo group, CGRP mAb therapy resulted in a reduction of monthly migraine days [weighted mean difference (WMD) = − 1.44, 95% CI = (− 1.68,− 1.19)] and acute migraine-specific medication days [WMD = − 1.28, 95% CI = (− 1.66,− 0.90)], with an improvement in 50% responder rate [RR = 1.51, 95% CI = (1.37,1.66)]. In addition, the adverse events (AEs) and treatment withdrawal rates due to AEs were not significantly different between CGRP mAb and placebo groups. Similar efficacy and safety results were obtained for erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab in subgroup analysis.

Conclusions

The current body of evidence reveals that CGRP mAb is an effective and safe preventive treatment for episodic migraine.
Chemical meningitis in children as a risk factor following craniopharyngioma resection – a case report
Authors: Chrościńska-Krawczyk Magdalena , Zienkiewicz Ewa , Podkowiński Arkadiusz , Klatka Maria
Published: February 2020

Background

Craniopharyngiomas are defined by the WHO as “benign” tumours, but their location and surgical treatment may be associated with major complications, one being chemical meningitis. Although rare, especially in children, it should be taken into account when worrying symptoms appear after surgery.

Case presentation

The aim of this study is to present the case of chemical meningitis in a 7-year-old girl. She was admitted to the Department of Neurology with the following symptoms: headache, vomiting and balance disorders. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed a tumour in the sellar and suprasellar region, which was diagnosed as a craniopharyngioma. Due to acute hydrocephalus the patient underwent emergency surgery. Conventional surgery was preceded by an endocrinological consultation to determine pituitary hormone levels. The first 6 days post-surgery, during which the patient started substitution therapy for pituitary insufficiency, were uneventful but on the seventh day she presented with seizures, fever, severe headache, weakness, irritability, stiffening of the neck and a gradual degradation of consciousness. This clinical presentation suggested meningitis, which was confirmed by examination of cerebrospinal fluid.

Conclusions

The conventional and/or endoscopic resection of a craniopharyngioma poses a risk of postoperative complications in the form of chemical meningitis. Although this is a rare occurrence in children with craniopharyngioma, physicians should be aware of this complication and its clinical presentation as it may facilitate earlier diagnosis, appropriate treatment and a faster recovery of their patients.
Neonatal mortality in the neonatal intensive care unit of Debre Markos referral hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Alebel Animut , Wagnew Fasil , Petrucka Pammla , Tesema Cheru , Moges Nurilign Abebe , Ketema Daniel Bekele , Yismaw lieltework , Melkamu Mamaru Wubale , Hibstie Yitbarek Tenaw , Temesgen Belisty , Bitew Zebenay Workneh , Tadesse Animen Ayehu , Kibret Getiye Dejenu
Published: February 2020

Background

Neonatal mortality remains a serious global public health problem, but Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), in particular, is largely affected. Current evidence on neonatal mortality is essential to inform programs and policies, yet there is a scarcity of information concerning neonatal mortality in our study area. Therefore, we conducted this prospective cohort study to determine the incidence and predictors of neonatal mortality at Debre Markos Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

This institutionally-based prospective cohort study was undertaken among 513 neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Debre Markos Referral Hospital between December 1st, 2017 and May 30th, 2018. All newborns consecutively admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit during the study period were included. An interviewer administered a questionnaire with the respective mothers. Data were entered using Epi-data™ Version 3.1 and analyzed using STATA™ Version 14. The neonatal survival time was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier survival curve, and the survival time between different categorical variables were compared using the log rank test. Both bi-variable and multivariable Cox-proportional hazard regression models were fitted to identify independent predictors of neonatal mortality.

Results

Among a cohort of 513 neonates at Debre Markos Referral Hospital, 109 (21.3%) died during the follow-up time. The overall neonatal mortality rate was 25.8 deaths per 1, 000 neonate-days (95% CI: 21.4, 31.1). In this study, most (83.5%) of the neonatal deaths occurred in the early phase of neonatal period (< 7 days post-partum). Using the multivariable Cox-regression analysis, being unemployed (AHR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.6), not attending ANC (AHR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.01, 3.5), not initiating exclusive breastfeeding (AHR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.7), neonatal admission due to respiratory distress syndrome (AHR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3, 3.1), and first minute Apgar score classification of severe (AHR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1, 3.9) significantly increased the risk of neonatal mortality.

Conclusion

In this study, we found a high rate of early neonatal mortality. Factors significantly linked with increased risk of neonatal mortality included: unemployed mothers, not attending ANC, not initiating exclusive breastfeeding, neonates admitted due to respiratory distress syndrome, and first minute Apgar score classified as severe.
Relationship between the sectional area of the rectus capitis posterior minor and the to be named ligament from 3D MR imaging
Authors: Sun Mei-Yu , Han Xu , Wang Meng-Yao , Ning Dian-Xiu , Xu Bin , Xie Li-Zhi , Yu Sheng-Bo , Sui Hong-Jin
Published: February 2020

Background

To evaluate the maximal sectional area (SA) of the rectus capitis posterior minor (RCPmi) muscle and its potential correlation with to be named ligament (TBNL) in the suboccipital area using 3D MR imaging.

Methods

A total of 365 subjects underwent sagittal 3D T2WI MR imaging of the RCPmi and TBNL. Among them, 45 subjects were excluded due to a particular clinical history or poor image quality. Finally, 320 subjects met the inclusion criteria, including 138 men and 182 women. The 624 RCPmi muscles were classified into positive and negative groups according to their attachment to the TBNL. Two experienced radiologists manually measured the maximum SA of the RCPmi muscle on the parasagittal image with a 30° deviation from the median sagittal plane. The correlations between the SA and the subject’s age, height, BMI, gender, handedness, and age-related disc degeneration were tested by Spearman analysis. The SA differences between different groups were compared using independent samples t-test.

Results

A total of 123 RCPmi-TBNL attachments were identified in the positive group, while 501 RCPmi muscles were identified in the negative group. The SA of the 624 RCPmi muscles was 62.71 ± 28.72 mm2 and was poorly correlated with the subject’s age, BMI, or handedness, with no correlation with age-related disc degeneration. A fair correlation was found between the SA and the body height in the whole group, and poor correlation in each male/female group. The SA of the RCPmi muscle in males was significantly bigger than that in women ([75.54 ± 29.17] vs. [52.74 ± 24.07] mm2). The SA of RCPmi muscle in the positive group was significantly smaller than that in the negative group ([55.95 ± 26.76] mm2 vs. [64.37 ± 28.97] mm2).

Conclusions

Our results revealed a significantly smaller SA of the RCPmi in subjects with RCPmi-TBNL attachment. Besides, a larger SA of the RCPmi was correlated with the male gender. These findings suggest that the SA of the RCPmi ought to be interpreted with care for each patient since there could be considerable variations.
Recurrent giant cell tumour of the thoracic spine managed by total en bloc spondylectomy and denosumab therapy: a case report
Authors: Duan Ping-Guo , Sheng Yong-Hong , Deng Chang-Hao , Tang Ben-Yu , Yao Hao-Qun
Published: February 2020

Background

Giant cell tumour (GCT) of the bone is a rare, invasive benign bone tumour, which typically originates in the metaphyseal ends of long bones and rarely in the spine. Here, we report a rare case of recurrent GCT of the thoracic vertebra, which was managed by three-level total en bloc spondylectomy (TES) after denosumab therapy.

Case presentation

A 50-year-old woman presented with a 2-month history of progressive lower back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed destruction of the T11 vertebra and a soft tissue mass. The patient underwent tumour resection. Computed tomography at the 2-year follow-up revealed relapse of the resected tumour, which had spread to the T12 vertebral body. Subsequently, denosumab therapy was administered to the patient for 1 year. The growth of the tumour was controlled, and its boundary line was clear. Thereafter, TES for the T10-T12 vertebrae was performed, and spinal reconstruction was completed through a one-stage single posterior approach. The patient’s condition improved postoperatively, and no evidence of recurrence of GCT of the bone or spinal deformity was observed at the 32-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Denosumab therapy contributed to tumour regression. Three-level TES may be an effective and feasible strategy for managing large recurrent GCTs of the spine after denosumab therapy.
Functions and clinical significance of circular RNAs in glioma
Authors: Sun Jikui , Li Banban , Shu Chang , Ma Quanfeng , Wang Jinhuan
Published: February 2020

CircRNAs are a class of single-stranded RNA molecules with a covalently closed loop structure and have been characterized by high stability, abundance, conservation, and display tissue/developmental stage-specific expression, furthermore, based on the abundance in distinct body fluids or exosomes, circRNAs present novel biomarkers and targets for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancers. Recently, the regulatory mechanisms of biogenesis and molecular functions, including miRNAs and RBPs sponge, translation as well as transcriptional and splicing regulation, have been gradually uncovered, although various aspects remained to be elucidated in combination with deep-sequence and bioinformatics. Accumulating studies have indicated that circRNAs are more enriched in neuronal tissues partly due to the abundance of specific genes promoting circularization, suggesting dysregulation of circRNAs is closely related to diseases of the nervous system, including glioma. In this review, we elaborate on the biogenesis, functions, databases as well as novel advances especially involved in the molecular pathways, highlight its great value as diagnostic or therapeutic targets in glioma.
Circular RNA CRIM1 functions as a ceRNA to promote nasopharyngeal carcinoma metastasis and docetaxel chemoresistance through upregulating FOXQ1
Authors: Hong Xiaohong , Liu Na , Liang Yelin , He Qingmei , Yang Xiaojing , Lei Yuan , Zhang Panpan , Zhao Yin , He Shiwei , Wang Yaqin , Li Junyan , Li Qian , Ma Jun , Li Yingqin
Published: February 2020

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a new type of noncoding RNA (ncRNA), have been identified as significant gene expression regulators and are involved in cancer progression. However, the roles of circRNAs in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remain largely unknown.

Methods

Here, the expression profile of circRNAs in a pair of NPC cell lines with different metastatic abilities (S18 and S26 cells) was analyzed by RNA-sequencing. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR was used to detect the expression level of circCRIM1 in NPC cells and tissues. Then, function experiments in vitro and in vivo were performed to evaluate the effects of circCRIM1 on NPC metastasis and EMT. Mechanistically, RNA immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter assay, pull-down assay with biotinylated miRNA, fluorescent in situ hybridization were performed to confirm the interaction between circCRIM1 and miR-422a in NPC. The clinical value of circCRIM1 was evaluated in NPC metastasis and chemosensitivity.

Results

We identified that circCRIM1 was upregulated in highly metastatic NPC cells. CircCRIM1 was also overexpressed in NPC tissues with distant metastasis, and its overexpression promoted NPC cell metastasis and EMT. Mechanistically, circCRIM1 competitively bound to miR-422a and prevented the suppressive effects of miR-422a on its target gene FOXQ1, which finally led to NPC metastasis, EMT and docetaxel chemoresistance. Furthermore, high circCRIM1 expression was associated with unfavorable survival in NPC patients. We established a prognostic model based on circCRIM1 expression and N stage that effectively predicted the risk of distant metastasis and treatment response to docetaxel-containing induction chemotherapy in NPC patients.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal the critical role of circCRIM1 specifically in promoting NPC metastasis and chemoresistance via a ceRNA mechanism and provide an exploitable biomarker and therapeutic target for prognosis and treatment resistance in NPC patients.
Current advances and outlooks in immunotherapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Fan Jia-qiao , Wang Meng-Fei , Chen Hai-Long , Shang Dong , Das Jugal K. , Song Jianxun
Published: February 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an incurable cancer resistant to traditional treatments, although a limited number of early-stage patients can undergo radical resection. Immunotherapies for the treatment of haematological malignancies as well as solid tumours have been substantially improved over the past decades, and impressive results have been obtained in recent preclinical and clinical trials. However, PDAC is likely the exception because of its unique tumour microenvironment (TME). In this review, we summarize the characteristics of the PDAC TME and focus on the network of various tumour-infiltrating immune cells, outlining the current advances in PDAC immunotherapy and addressing the effect of the PDAC TME on immunotherapy. This review further explores the combinations of different therapies used to enhance antitumour efficacy or reverse immunodeficiencies and describes optimizable immunotherapeutic strategies for PDAC. The concordant combination of various treatments, such as targeting cancer cells and the stroma, reversing suppressive immune reactions and enhancing antitumour reactivity, may be the most promising approach for the treatment of PDAC. Traditional treatments, especially chemotherapy, may also be optimized for individual patients to remodel the immunosuppressive microenvironment for enhanced therapy.
Translation and functional roles of circular RNAs in human cancer
Authors: Lei Ming , Zheng Guantao , Ning Qianqian , Zheng Junnian , Dong Dong
Published: February 2020

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a new class of non-coding RNAs formed by covalently closed loops through backsplicing. Recent methodologies have enabled in-depth characterization of circRNAs for identification and potential functions. CircRNAs play important roles in various biological functions as microRNA sponges, transcriptional regulators and combining with RNA binding proteins. Recent studies indicated that some cytoplasmic circRNAs can be effectively translated into detectable peptides, which enlightened us on the importance of circRNAs in cellular physiology function. Internal Ribosome Entry site (IRES)- and N6-methyladenosines (m6A)-mediated cap-independent translation initiation have been suggested to be potential mechanism for circRNA translation. To date, several translated circRNAs have been uncovered to play pivotal roles in human cancers. In this review, we introduced the properties and functions of circRNAs, and characterized the possible mechanism of translation initiation and complexity of the translation ability of circRNAs. We summarized the emerging functions of circRNA-encoded proteins in human cancer. The works on circRNA translation will open a hidden human proteome, and enhance us to understand the importance of circRNAs in human cancer, which has been poorly explored so far.
microRNAs Orchestrate Pathophysiology of Breast Cancer Brain Metastasis: Advances in Therapy
Authors: Kanchan Ranjana K. , Siddiqui Jawed A. , Mahapatra Sidharth , Batra Surinder K. , Nasser Mohd W.
Published: February 2020

Brain metastasis (BM) predominantly occurs in triple-negative (TN) and epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer (BC) patients, and currently, there is an unmet need for the treatment of these patients. BM is a complex process that is regulated by the formation of a metastatic niche. A better understanding of the brain metastatic processes and the crosstalk between cancer cells and brain microenvironment is essential for designing a novel therapeutic approach. In this context, the aberrant expression of miRNA has been shown to be associated with BM. These non-coding RNAs/miRNAs regulate metastasis through modulating the formation of a metastatic niche and metabolic reprogramming via regulation of their target genes. However, the role of miRNA in breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) is poorly explored. Thus, identification and understanding of miRNAs in the pathobiology of BCBM may identify a novel candidate miRNA for the early diagnosis and prevention of this devastating process. In this review, we focus on understanding the role of candidate miRNAs in the regulation of BC brain metastatic processes as well as designing novel miRNA-based therapeutic strategies for BCBM.