bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethanol-activated CaMKII signaling induces neuronal apoptosis through Drp1-mediated excessive mitochondrial fission and JNK1-dependent NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Authors: Lim Jae Ryong , Lee Hyun Jik , Jung Young Hyun , Kim Jun Sung , Chae Chang Woo , Kim Seo Yihl , Han Ho Jae
Published: August 2020

Background

Neurodegeneration is a representative phenotype of patients with chronic alcoholism. Ethanol-induced calcium overload causes NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome formation and an imbalance in mitochondrial dynamics, closely associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. However, how calcium regulates this process in neuronal cells is poorly understood. Therefore, the present study investigated the detailed mechanism of calcium-regulated mitochondrial dynamics and NLRP3 inflammasome formation in neuronal cells by ethanol.

Methods

In this study, we used the SK-N-MC human neuroblastoma cell line. To confirm the expression level of the mRNA and protein, real time quantitative PCR and western blot were performed. Co-immunoprecipitation and Immunofluorescence staining were conducted to confirm the complex formation or interaction of the proteins. Flow cytometry was used to analyze intracellular calcium, mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal apoptosis.

Results

Ethanol increased cleaved caspase-3 levels and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation associated with neuronal apoptosis. In addition, ethanol increased protein kinase A (PKA) activation and cAMP-response-element-binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation, which increased N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) expression. Ethanol-increased NMDAR induced intracellular calcium overload and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) activation leading to phosphorylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase 1 (JNK1). Drp1 phosphorylation promoted Drp1 translocation to the mitochondria, resulting in excessive mitochondrial fission, mitochondrial ROS accumulation, and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, which was recovered by Drp1 inhibitor pretreatment. Ethanol-induced JNK1 phosphorylation activated the NLRP3 inflammasome that induced caspase-1 dependent mitophagy inhibition, thereby exacerbating ROS accumulation and causing cell death. Suppressing caspase-1 induced mitophagy and reversed the ethanol-induced apoptosis in neuronal cells.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that ethanol upregulated NMDAR-dependent CaMKII phosphorylation which is essential for Drp1-mediated excessive mitochondrial fission and the JNK1-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation resulting in neuronal apoptosis.

Graphical abstract
Physical activity during COVID-19 induced lockdown: recommendations
Authors: Füzéki Eszter , Groneberg David A. , Banzer Winfried
Published: August 2020

Measures aiming at containing the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) include isolation, social distancing, and quarantine. Quarantine and other lockdown instruments show promise in reducing the number of COVID-19 infections and deaths. It is reasonable to assume that lockdown leads to reduced levels of physical activity in the general population. Potential detrimental health effects of lockdown, such as psychological distress and physical inactivity induced maladaptations must be addressed. The current review summarizes harmful effects of limited physical activity on mental and physical health due to social distancing and quarantine and highlights the effects of simple physical activity regimes counteracting these detrimental effects, with a special emphasis on acute effects.
Protocol for the 3HP Options Trial: a hybrid type 3 implementation-effectiveness randomized trial of delivery strategies for short-course tuberculosis preventive therapy among people living with HIV in Uganda
Authors: Kadota Jillian L. , Musinguzi Allan , Nabunje Juliet , Welishe Fred , Ssemata Jackie L. , Bishop Opira , Berger Christopher A. , Patel Devika , Sammann Amanda , Katahoire Anne , Nahid Payam , Belknap Robert , Phillips Patrick P. J. , Namusobya Jennifer , Kamya Moses , Handley Margaret A. , Kiwanuka Noah , Katamba Achilles , Dowdy David , Semitala Fred C. , Cattamanchi Adithya
Published: August 2020

Background

Recently, a 3-month (12-dose) regimen of weekly isoniazid and rifapentine (3HP) was recommended by the World Health Organization for the prevention of tuberculosis (TB) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) on common antiretroviral therapy regimens. The best approach to delivering 3HP to PLHIV remains uncertain.

Methods

We developed a three-armed randomized trial assessing optimized strategies for delivering 3HP to PLHIV. The trial will be conducted at the Mulago Immune Suppression Syndrome (i.e., HIV/AIDS) clinic in Kampala, Uganda. We plan to recruit 1656 PLHIV, randomized 1:1 to each of the three arms (552 per arm). Using a hybrid type 3 effectiveness-implementation design, this pragmatic trial aims to (1) compare the acceptance and completion of 3HP among PLHIV under three delivery strategies: directly observed therapy (DOT), self-administered therapy (SAT), and informed patient choice of either DOT or SAT (with the assistance of a decision aid); (2) to identify processes and contextual factors that influence the acceptance and completion of 3HP under each delivery strategy; and (3) to estimate the costs and compare the cost-effectiveness of three strategies for delivering 3HP. The three delivery strategies were each optimized to address key barriers to 3HP completion using a theory-informed approach. We hypothesize that high levels of treatment acceptance and completion can be achieved among PLHIV in sub-Saharan Africa and that offering PLHIV an informed choice between the optimized DOT and SAT delivery strategies will result in greater acceptance and completion of 3HP. The design and planned evaluation of the delivery strategies were guided by the use of implementation science conceptual frameworks.

Discussion

3HP—one of the most promising interventions for TB prevention—will not be scaled up unless it can be delivered in a patient-centered fashion. We highlight shared decision-making as a key element of our trial design and theorize that offering PLHIV an informed choice between optimized delivery strategies will facilitate the highest levels of treatment acceptance and completion.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03934931; Registered 2 May 2019.
The psychological impact on an orthopaedic outpatient setting in the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wong Khai Cheong , Han Xinyun Audrey , Tay Kae Sian , Koh Suang Bee , Howe Tet Sen
Published: August 2020

Background

World Health Organization declared coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) a global pandemic on 11 March 2020, after the coronavirus claimed 4628 lives worldwide. Mental health challenges such as making impossible decisions and working under extreme pressures are expected to be faced by frontline healthcare workers who are directly involved in the care of COVID-19 patients. However, we question if significant stress levels might also be observed in a subspecialty musculoskeletal outpatient department, where staff are not first-line care providers of COVID-19 patients. We hypothesize that these healthcare workers also face significant psychological strain, and we aim to objectively determine the prevalence using a validated caregiver strain index.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in outpatient musculoskeletal clinics in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. We collected basic demographic data and used a 13-question tool adapted from the validated Caregiver Strain Index (CSI) to measure psychological strain in these healthcare workers. Participants were divided into 2 groups depending on the level of strain experienced.

Results

A total of 62 healthcare workers volunteered for this study. There were 32 participants (51.6%) who had 7 or more positive responses (group 1) and the remaining 30 participants (48.4%) were allocated to group 2. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of demographic data. “Work adjustments” (74.2%), “changes in personal plans” (72.6%), and finding it “confining” (72.6%) garnered the most positive responses in the questionnaire. On the other hand, “financial concerns” garnered the least positive responses (21.0%).

Conclusion

The protracted duration of the COVID-19 outbreak and its resultant prolonged adjustments can have unintended consequences of wearing down healthcare resources otherwise allocated to chronic and elective conditions. Countries should ensure that measures are put in place to safeguard the mental well-being of our healthcare workers to avoid needing another reactive strategy in this battle against COVID-19.
Risk factors for lymph node metastasis and surgical methods in patients with early-stage peripheral lung adenocarcinoma presenting as ground glass opacity
Authors: Wang Yongming , Jing Lijun , Wang Gongchao
Published: August 2020

Background

It is difficult to predict lymph node metastasis in patients with early lung cancer. Pure ground glass opacity (GGO) on computed tomography indicates an early-stage adenocarcinoma that can be removed by limited resection or lobectomy without the need for mediastinal lymph node dissection or sampling, and lung adenocarcinoma with GGO therefore has a good prognosis. We examined the incidence and risk factors of lymph node metastasis in patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed clinical data for 327 patients with stage IA peripheral lung cancer treated in our hospital from March 2014 to December 2018. The patients were divided into four groups according to computed tomography signs. Lobectomy and systematic lymph node dissection were performed in all patients. Correlations between lymph node metastasis and clinical pathological factors were analyzed by logistic regression.

Results

Among the 327 patients, 26 (7.95%) had lymph node metastasis. No patients with pure GGO or GGO-dominant types had lymph node metastasis. Logistic regression identified tumor diameter, solid content, plasma carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level, pathological type, lymphovascular invasion, and pleural invasion as factors related to the presence of lymph node metastasis.

Conclusions

Tumor diameter, solid component ratio, plasma CEA level, pathological type, vascular tumor thrombus, and pleural invasion are possible independent risk factors for lymph node metastasis in patients with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma. In contrast, lymph node metastasis is rare in patients with pure GGO or GGO-dominant lung adenocarcinoma.
A modified Sydney system for the diagnosis of chronic gastritis in dogs
Authors: Spużak Jolanta , Jankowski Marcin , Kubiak Krzysztof , Glińska-Suchocka Kamila , Ciaputa Rafał
Published: August 2020

Background

The Sydney system for assessing inflammatory lesions in the gastric mucosa is based on endoscopic and histological examinations. This study aimed to apply the Sydney system to diagnose gastritis in dogs. The study also compared the results of endoscopic and histological examinations conducted on gastric mucosal biopsy specimens. A total of 56 dogs with chronic vomiting were analyzed in the study. The physical appearance of the gastric mucosa was assessed through endoscopic examination, while the severity of the gastric inflammation, inflammation activity, glandular atrophy, and intestinal metaplasia were assessed by histopathological examination.

Results

The endoscopic examination confirmed the presence of inflammatory lesions affecting the gastric corpus and pylorus in all the dogs, although the severity of these lesions differed between the individuals. Reflux gastritis was the most commonly observed gastric inflammation. In the histopathological examination of the gastric mucosal samples, inflammatory lesions were found in the gastric corpus of 53 dogs, while 55 dogs had lesions in the pylorus. This corresponds to a 96.4% agreement between the methods.

Conclusions

The Sydney system is a useful tool for macroscopic and microscopic assessment of changes in the gastric mucosa as it enables the determination of inflammation type and severity, which helps the canine gastroenterologists to reliably compare the results of the tests performed in different facilities. Besides, the use of the Sydney system in diagnosing lesions facilitates the selection and effective monitoring of treatment. However, despite a high rate of agreement between the results of endoscopic and histopathological examinations, it is recommended to use both these methods for the assessment of the gastric mucosa in dogs.
Targetable ERBB2 mutation status is an independent marker of adverse prognosis in estrogen receptor positive, ERBB2 non-amplified primary lobular breast carcinoma: a retrospective in silico analysis of public datasets
Authors: Kurozumi Sasagu , Alsaleem Mansour , Monteiro Cíntia J. , Bhardwaj Kartikeya , Joosten Stacey E. P. , Fujii Takaaki , Shirabe Ken , Green Andrew R. , Ellis Ian O. , Rakha Emad A. , Mongan Nigel P. , Heery David M. , Zwart Wilbert , Oesterreich Steffi , Johnston Simon J.
Published: August 2020

Background

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) accounts for 10–15% of primary breast cancers and is typically estrogen receptor alpha positive (ER+) andERBB2non-amplified. Somatic mutations inERBB2/3are emerging as a tractable mechanism underlying enhanced human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) activity. We tested the hypothesis that therapeutically targetableERBB2/3mutations in primary ILC of the breast associate with poor survival outcome in large public datasets.

Methods

We performed in silico comparison ofERBB2non-amplified cases of ER+ stage I–III primary ILC (N = 279) and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC,N = 1301) using METABRIC, TCGA, and MSK-IMPACT information. Activating mutations amenable to HER2-directed therapy with neratinib were identified using existing functional data from in vitro cell line and xenograft experiments. Multivariate analysis of 10-year overall survival (OS) with tumor size, grade, and lymph node status was performed using a Cox regression model. Differential gene expression analyses byERBB2mutation and amplification status was performed using weighted average differences and an in silico model of response to neratinib derived from breast cancer cell lines.

Results

ILC tumors comprised 17.7% of all cases in the dataset but accounted for 47.1% ofERBB2-mutated cases. Mutations inERBB2were enriched in ILC vs. IDC cases (5.7%,N = 16 vs. 1.4%,N = 18,p < 0.0001) and clustered in the tyrosine kinase domain of HER2.ERBB3mutations were not enriched in ILC (1.1%,N = 3 vs. 1.8%,N = 23;p = 0.604). Median OS for patients withERBB2-mutant ILC tumors was 66 months vs. 211 months forERBB2wild-type (p = 0.0001), and 159 vs. 166 months (p = 0.733) for IDC tumors. TargetableERBB2mutational status was an independent prognostic marker of 10-year OS—but only in ILC (hazard ratio, HR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.2–11.0;p = 0.021). Findings were validated using a novelERBB2mutation gene enrichment score (HR for 10-year OS in ILC = 2.3, 95% CI 1.04–5.05;p = 0.040).

Conclusions

TargetableERBB2mutations are enriched in primary ILC and their detection represents an actionable strategy with the potential to improve patient outcomes. Biomarker-led clinical trials of adjuvant HER-targeted therapy are warranted for patients withERBB2-mutated primary ILC.
Chinese herbal medicine combined with entecavir to reduce the off-therapy recurrence risk in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients: a multi-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial in China
Authors: Li Xiaoke , Zhang Ludan , Qiu Mei , Huang Yi , Xiao Huanming , Lu Bingjiu , Jiang Yuyong , Long Fuli , Lin Hui , He Jinyu , Wu Qikai , Zhang Mingxiang , Wang Li , Zhu Xiaoning , Gong Man , Sun Xuehua , Sun Jianguang , Sun Fengxia , Lu Wei , Xu Weihua , Chen Guang , Li Zhiguo , Gan Danan , Yang Xianzhao , Du Hongbo , Ye Yong’an
Published: August 2020

Background

Nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) are the first-line option against chronic hepatitis B (CHB). NAs produce potent suppression of viral replication with a small chance of HBsAg seroclearance and a high risk of virological relapse after discontinuation. The combined therapy of NAs plus traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely accepted and has been recognized as a prospective alternative approach in China. Based on preliminary works, this study was designed to observe the therapeutic effect of TCM plus entecavir (ETV) against HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B with respect to reducing the recurrence risk after NA withdrawal.

Methods/design

The study is a nationwide, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with a duration of 120 weeks. A total of 18 hospitals and 490 eligible Chinese HBeAg-positive CHB patients will be enrolled and randomly allocated into the experimental group and control group in a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the experimental group will be prescribed TCM formulae (Tiaogan-BuXu-Jiedu granules) plus ETV 0.5 mg per day for consolidation therapy for 96 weeks. Patients in the control group will be prescribed TCM granule placebo plus ETV 0.5 mg per day for the same course. After consolidation therapy, all patients will discontinue their trial drugs and be closely monitored over the next 24 weeks. Once clinical recurrence (CR) occurs, ETV treatment will be restarted. The primary outcome is the cumulative rate of CR at the end of this trial.

Conclusion

This study is the first of its kind to observe therapeutic effects with respect to reducing recurrence after NA withdrawals after unified integrative consolidation therapy in the CHB population.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry No.ChiCTR1900021232. Registered on February 2, 2019
The effect of a telerehabilitation virtual reality intervention on functional upper limb activities in people with multiple sclerosis: a study protocol for the TEAMS pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kalron Alon , Achiron Anat , Pau Massimiliano , Cocco Eleonora
Published: August 2020

Background

Approximately 60% of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) suffer from upper limb dysfunction. Our primary goal is to implement a single-blind, randomized control trial (RCT) designed to compare the effectiveness of an 8-week home-based telerehab virtual reality (VR) program with conventional therapy in PwMS with manual dexterity difficulties. Secondary aims include (a) evaluating the impact of the programs on quality of life after the intervention and a follow-up 1 month later and (b) evaluating the impact of the programs on adherence and satisfaction.

Methods

Twenty-four PwMS will be recruited to the study which will be conducted at two established MS centers: (1) The Regional Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis, Binaghi Hospital, Cagliari, Italy, and (2) The Multiple Sclerosis Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel. Participants will complete a total of three assessments focusing on upper limb functions. Both groups will receive 16 training sessions focusing on functional upper limb activities. The home-based telerehab VR intervention will comprise a custom-made software program running on a private computer or laptop. PwMS will perform several activities of daily living (ADL) functions associated with self-care, dressing, and meal preparation. Conventional therapy will focus on task-related upper-limb treatments while in a sitting position, indicative of the standard care in MS. Following 8 weeks of training, participants will complete a further outcome assessment. The same tests will be conducted 1 month (as a follow-up) after completion of the intervention.

Discussion

The outcomes of this study have tremendous potential to improve the quality of evidence and informed decisions of functional upper limb activities in PwMS. If comparable results are found between the treatments in improving upper limb outcomes, this would suggest that PwMS can choose the program that best meets their personal needs, e.g., financial concerns, transportation, or accessibility issues. Secondly, this information can be used by healthcare providers and medical professionals in developing upper limb exercise programs that will most likely succeed in PwMS.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04032431. Registered on 19 July 2019.
Novel role of focused airway ultrasound in early airway assessment of suspected laryngeal trauma
Authors: Adi Osman , Sum Kok Meng , Ahmad Azma Haryaty , Wahab Mahathar Abd. , Neri Luca , Panebianco Nova
Published: August 2020

Background

Upper airway injury secondary to blunt neck trauma can lead to upper airway obstruction and potentially cause a life-threatening condition. The most important aspect in the care of laryngeal trauma is to establish a secure airway. Focused airway ultrasound enables recognition of important upper airway structures, offers early opportunity to identify life-threatening upper airway injury, and allows assessment of the extent of injury. This information that can be obtained rapidly at the bedside has the potential to facilitate rapid intervention.

Case presentation

We report a case series that illustrate the diagnostic value of focused airway ultrasound in the diagnosis of laryngeal trauma in patients presenting with blunt neck injury.

Conclusion

Early recognition, appropriate triaging, accurate airway evaluation, and prompt management of such injuries are essential. In this case series, we introduce the potential role of focused airway ultrasound in suspected laryngeal trauma, and the correlation of these exam findings with that of computed tomography (CT) scanning, based on the Schaefer classification of laryngeal injury.
Spacelike submanifolds with parallel mean curvature vector in a de Sitter space $S^{n+p}_{q}(c)$
Authors: Chen Junfeng , Liu Sanyang , Shu Shichang
Published: August 2020

Spacelike submanifolds usually appear in the study of questions related to causality in general relativity. In this paper, we study an n-dimensional spacelike submanifold in $(n + p)$
(
n
+
p
)
-dimensional connected de Sitter space $S^{n+p}_{q}(c)$

S
q

n
+
p

(
c
)
of index q ($1\leq q \leq p$
1
≤
q
≤
p
) and of constant curvature c, and we obtain some integral inequalities of Simons type and rigidity theorems.
Well-posedness of the solution of the fractional semilinear pseudo-parabolic equation
Authors: Cheng Jiazhuo , Fang Shaomei
Published: August 2020

This article concerns the Cauchy problem for the fractional semilinear pseudo-parabolic equation. Through the Green’s function method, we prove the pointwise convergence rate of the solution. Furthermore, using this precise pointwise structure, we introduce a Sobolev space condition with negative index on the initial data and give the nonlinear critical index for blowing up.
Existence of positive solutions for the fractional q-difference boundary value problem
Authors: Liang Yue , Yang He , Li Hong
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we investigate the existence of positive solutions for a class of fractional boundary value problems involving q-difference. By using the fixed point theorem of cone mappings, two existence results are obtained. Examples are given to illustrate the abstract results.
Validation of the Needs Assessment of Family Caregivers-Cancer scale in an Asian population
Authors: Yang Winson Fu Zun , Liu Jianlin , Chan Yiong Huak , Griva Konstadina , Kuparasundram Sangita , Mahendran Rathi
Published: August 2020

Background

The Needs Assessment of Family Caregivers- Cancer (NAFC-C) scale is shown to have adequate psychometric properties in assessing family caregiver needs during the cancer journey and its psychometric properties have been studied only in Western populations. This study sought to validate the NAFC-C in an Asian population for wider applicability.

Methods

Participants (n = 363) completed questions on sociodemographics, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, the Zarit Burden Interview, the Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer scale, and the NAFC-C.

Results

Results revealed good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and concurrent validity of the NAFC-C. Confirmatory factor analysis did not demonstrate a good fit of the NAFC-C in our sample. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a similar factor structure in this study’s population. Further reliability and validity analyses with the EFA factor structure demonstrated similar reliability and validity assessments.

Conclusions

The NAFC-C is shown to be applicable in an Asian population. It would be a useful instrument for determining family caregivers’ needs and to inform future interventions to address those needs and improve or maintain quality of life in both patients and their caregivers.
Unloading using Impella CP during profound cardiogenic shock caused by left ventricular failure in a large animal model: impact on the right ventricle
Authors: Josiassen Jakob , Helgestad Ole Kristian Lerche , Udesen Nanne Louise Junker , Banke Ann , Frederiksen Peter Hartmund , Hyldebrandt Janus Adler , Schmidt Henrik , Jensen Lisette Okkels , Hassager Christian , Ravn Hanne Berg , Møller Jacob E.
Published: August 2020

Background and aim

This study aimed to assess right ventricular (RV) function during cardiogenic shock due to acute left ventricular (LV) failure, including during LV unloading with Impella CP and an added moderate dose of norepinephrine.

Methods

Cardiogenic shock was induced by injecting microspheres in the left main coronary artery in 18 adult Danish Landrace pigs. Conductance catheters were placed in both ventricles and pressure-volume loops were recorded simultaneously.

Results

Cardiogenic shock due to LV failure also impaired RV performance, which was partially restored during haemodynamic support with Impella CP, as demonstrated by changes in the ventriculo-arterial coupling (Ea/Ees ratio) (baseline (median [Q1;Q3]) 1.2 [1.1;1.6]), cardiogenic shock (3.0 [2.4;4.5]), Impella CP (2.1 [1.3;2.7]) (pBaseline vs CS< 0.0001, pCS vs Impella= 0.001)). Impella CP support also improved RV stroke work (SW) (cardiogenic shock 333 [263;530] vs Impella CP (830 [717;1121]) (p< 0.001). Moderate norepinephrine infusion concomitant with Impella CP further improved RV SW (Impella CP (818 [751;1065]) vs Impella CP+moderate norepinephrine (1231 [1142;1335]) (p= 0.01)) but at the expense of an increase in LV SW (Impella CP (858 [555;1392]) vs Impella CP+moderate norepinephrine (2101 [1024;2613]) (p= 0.04)).

Conclusions

The Impella CP provided efficient LV unloading, improved RV function, and end-organ perfusion. Moderate doses of norepinephrine during Impella support further improved RV function, but at the expense of an increase in SW of the failing LV.
New bone ingrowth into β-TCP/HA graft activated with argon plasma: a histomorphometric study on sinus lifting in rabbits
Authors: Tanaka Kazushige , Botticelli Daniele , Canullo Luigi , Baba Shunsuke , Xavier Samuel P.
Published: August 2020

Background

In a previous experimental study, new bone was found growing within granules of HA/β-TCP. In vitro and experimental studies have shown increased protein adsorption and cell adhesion graft material bioactivated with Argon plasma. The aims of the present experiment were to study new bone ingrowth into β-TCP/HA granules used as filler material for sinus lifting and the influence on the healing of the bioactivation of the graft with argon plasma.

Methods

Sinus lifting was carried out in 20 rabbits using 60% HA and 40% β-TCP as filler material either bio-activated with argon plasma (plasma group) or left untreated (control group). The antrostomies were closed with collagen membranes. Biopsies representing the healing after 2 and 10 weeks were collected, and ground sections were prepared for histomorphometric analyses. Various regions of the elevated space were analyzed both around (outer bone; OB) and inside (interpenetrating bone network, IBN) the graft particles.

Results

After 2 weeks of healing, 8.2% and 9.3% (n = 10; p = 0.635) of total new bone (OB + IBN) was found in the plasma and control groups, respectively. Small fractions of IBN were found, spreading from the periphery inward of the graft particles. After 10 weeks of healing, the total new bone was 34.0% in the plasma and 31.3% in Control groups (n = 9; p = 0.594). The respective fractions of IBN were 18.0% and 16.0%. New bone was penetrating from the peripheral regions inside the remnants of graft particles, where it was forming a network of bridges in continuity to the remnants of biomaterial through its porosities. The biomaterial decreased in proportion between 2 and 10 weeks from 52.1 to 28.3% in the plasma group, and from 52.5% to 31.9% in the control group.

Conclusion

The bio-activation with argon plasma on a synthetic graft composed of 60% HA and 40% β-TCP used as filler material for sinus lifting showed a tendency to improve bone formation; however, the difference with the control group was neither statistically significant nor clinically relevant.
The healthcare seeking behaviour of adult patients with asthma at Chitungwiza Central Hospital, Zimbabwe
Authors: Ndarukwa Pisirai , Chimbari Moses J. , Sibanda Elopy N. , Madanhire Tafadzwa
Published: August 2020

Background

Although asthma is a serious public health concern in Zimbabwe, there is lack of information regarding the decision to seek for healthcare services among patients. This study aimed to determine the health care seeking behaviour of adult patients with asthma attending Chitungwiza Central Hospital in Zimbabwe.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 patients with asthma. A questionnaire with four thematic areas (i) patients’ demographic characteristics, (ii) types of health seeking behaviours (iii) knowledge of asthma treatment and (iv) attitudes on asthma treatment was used.

Results

We determined the sequence of remedial action that people undertake to rectify perceived ill health commonly referred to as health care seeking behaviours in 400 adult patients with asthma. This behaviour was considered good if the patient sought care at the hospital/clinic and or private practitioners. Poor health seeking behaviour was adjudged if patients sought no treatment, self-treated or resorted to traditional or faith healers for care.

The majority 261(65.3%) of the study participants were females mainly between ages 29–39 years who lived in the urban setting. Distance to health facility, perception of supportive roles of healthcare providers, perceived good quality of service and knowledge of asthma complications were key determinants for health seeking behaviour. The results showed that majority 290 (72.5%) reported good health seeking behaviour. The correlates of good health seeking behaviour included financial capacity to pay for medical care [OR: 0.50 (CI: 0.31–0.83); p = 0.008)] and receiving good quality of asthma treatment [OR: 0.59 (CI: 0.37–0.93); p = 0.03)]. The inability to voluntarily seek own asthma treatment [OR: 1.68 (CI: 1.05–2.70); p = 0.03) was a significant risk factor (68% more likely) for poor health seeking behaviour.

Conclusions

We concluded that prior to scaling up asthma treatment programmes in Zimbabwe, there is need to address, individual-level, community-level and health service level barriers to health seeking among asthma patients.
Validating the efficacy of interval appendectomy for acute appendicitis: representative three cases with different etiologies
Authors: Kasagi Yuta , Natsugoe Keita , Aoyagi Takehiko , Nobutou Yoshinari , Tsujita Eiji , Ishida Mayumi , Kuma Sosei , Takizawa Katsumi , Uchiyama Hideaki
Published: August 2020

Background

Appendectomy for acute appendicitis (AA) is considered one of the most common emergency surgeries. However, emergency appendectomy accompanied with complex lesions such as extensive abscess formation is not recommended in most cases. Therefore, non-operative management followed by interval appendectomy (IA) for AA has been tried. Herein, we present three AA cases with specific etiology that underwent interval appendectomy.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 68-year-old man was diagnosed AA with intestinal malrotation and intra-abdominal abscesses. He initially treated with conservative therapy and underwent laparoscopic IA after detailed preoperative examination.

Case 2: A 22-year-old man had been under treatment for pancolitis-type ulcerative colitis (UC), also bothered by right-lower abdominal pain several times a year. The appendix always appeared swollen on every CT taken during symptoms. He underwent laparoscopic IA; pathological finding revealed typical UC histological features in the resected appendix. After the surgery, he never suffered from terrible right lower abdominal pain.

Case 3: A 69-year-old woman complaining a right lower abdominal pain had undergone CT examination, which revealed AA with appendiceal mass, irregular wall thickness of the cecum, and mediastinal and para-aortic lymph node swelling. The operation was carried out after conservative therapy. The pathological diagnosis revealedBRAFmutated colorectal carcinoma. She had received systematic chemotherapy after the surgery, and all metastatic lesions have completely disappeared.

Conclusion

Interval appendectomy provided us with much clearer anatomical information and precise therapeutic strategies, avoiding technical and general operative complications, and also induced fast recovery and short length of hospital stay. Interval appendectomy is a reasonable procedure and could be recommended in case of AA with some different etiology.
Tissue-specific changes in Ca2+-ATPase and Na+/K+-ATPase activities in freshwater African catfish Clarias gariepinus juvenile exposed to oxadiazon
Authors: Oluah Ndubuisi Stanley , Mgbenka Bernard Obialo , Nwani Christopher Didiugwu , Aguzie Ifeanyi Oscar , Ngene Innocent Chinedu , Oluah Chidimma
Published: August 2020

Background

This study investigated the effect of sublethal concentrations (0.0, 0.3, 0.6, and 1.2 mg·L-1) of herbicide oxadiazon (ODZ) on the activities of Ca2+-ATPase and Na+/K+-ATPase in juvenileClarias gariepinus.

Methods

One hundred eighty juveniles ofClarias gariepinus(mean weight 58.88 ± 1.24 g and mean length 22.34 ± 1.52 cm) were randomly divided into four groups and exposed to sublethal concentrations (0.00, 0.3, 0.6, and 1.2 mg·L-1ODZ) for 21 days in a static renewal bioassay system in which the herbicide and water were replaced completely every day. The changes in Ca2+- and Na+/K+-ATPase activities in the gill, kidney, liver, and heart of the fish were assayed on days 1, 7, 14, and 21.

Result

The result showed significant alteration in the activity of these membrane-bound enzymes. There was duration and concentration-dependent significant (p < 0.05) increase in Ca2+-ATPase activity in the treatment groups when compared with the control. The Na+/K+-ATPase activity was significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited in all the tissues when compared with control. The observed alterations in the activities of both Ca2+-ATPase and Na+/K+-ATPase in this study may be indication of impaired ionic transport and imbalance in the fish which may trigger other biochemical, physiological, and even neurological consequences that may compromise several body functions.

Conclusion

The alteration of the ATPase activities inC. gariepinusby ODZ is likely to affect the ATP usage and energy metabolism in the fish serious repercussions on Ca2+homeostasis, Na+/K+sodium pump, and Ca2+/Na+exchanger The results suggested that assay of the enzymes could be used as a biomarker of water pollution.
Impact of hiking trails on the diversity of flower-visiting insects in Wadi Telah, St. Katherine protectorate, Egypt
Authors: Kamel Mohamed
Published: August 2020

Background

A hiking trail is one of the major recreational activities that have critical impacts on wildlife. Wadi Telah in Saint Katherine Protectorate (South Sinai, Egypt) (N 28.568539 and E 33.932816) is an important spot for biodiversity. It was surveyed for spatial variation in the diversity of flower-visiting insects at different distances from the hiking trail. The current study aimed at assessing the impact of some anthropogenic activities along the main hiking trail passing through W. Telah on the diversity of flower-visiting insects. Field monitoring of flower visitors across the hiking trail passing through W. Telah was carried out at different distances (~ 0, 20, 40, and 60 m) along both sides of the hiking trail. As a control, monitoring was performed at 120 m from the hiking trail.

Results

A total of 542 individuals belonging to 34 species of flower visitors, 16 families, from three orders were recorded within the study localities in W. Telah. Floral resources in Wadi Telah can be a limiting factor for the populations of flower visitors. There was a significant difference in the distribution of the flower visitors’ species richness among different distances from the hiking trail in W. Telah. Species richness and abundance of flower visitors and their associated floral resources were significantly positively correlated to the distance from the hiking trail. There were no significant differences in the diversity of flower-visiting insects among different distances from the trail, perhaps due to their mobility.

Conclusions

The present study showed that the hiking trail had a negative impact on flower visitors and their associated floral resources in Wadi Telah. The investigation on how different biodiversity elements respond to hiking trails allows greater insight for protectorate managers. The study can contribute to effective management decisions for current and future protectorates.
Conversion of adverse data corpus to shrewd output using sampling metrics
Authors: Ashraf Shahzad , Saleem Sehrish , Ahmed Tauqeer , Aslam Zeeshan , Muhammad Durr
Published: August 2020

An imbalanced dataset is commonly found in at least one class, which are typically exceeded by the other ones. A machine learning algorithm (classifier) trained with an imbalanced dataset predicts the majority class (frequently occurring) more than the other minority classes (rarely occurring). Training with an imbalanced dataset poses challenges for classifiers; however, applying suitable techniques for reducing class imbalance issues can enhance classifiers’ performance. In this study, we consider an imbalanced dataset from an educational context. Initially, we examine all shortcomings regarding the classification of an imbalanced dataset. Then, we apply data-level algorithms for class balancing and compare the performance of classifiers. The performance of the classifiers is measured using the underlying information in their confusion matrices, such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F measure. The results show that classification with an imbalanced dataset may produce high accuracy but low precision and recall for the minority class. The analysis confirms that undersampling and oversampling are effective for balancing datasets, but the latter dominates.
The use of mineral interfaces in sand-sized volcanic rock fragments to infer mechanical durability
Authors: Le Pera Emilia , Morrone Consuele
Published: August 2020

The use of mineral interfaces, in sand-sized rock fragments, to infer the influence exerted by mechanical durability on the generation of siliciclastic sediments, has been determined for plutoniclastic sand. Conversely, for volcaniclastic sand, it has received much less attention, and, to our knowledge, this is the first attempt to make use of the volcaniclastic interfacial modal mineralogy of epiclastic sandy fragments, to infer mechanical durability control at a modern beach environment. Volcaniclastic sand was collected along five beaches developed on five islands, of the southern Tyrrhenian Sea (Alicudi, Filicudi, Salina, Panarea and Stromboli) from the Aeolian Archipelago, and one sample was collected near the Stromboli Island volcanic crater. Each sample was sieved and thin sectioned for petrographic analysis. The modal mineralogy of the very coarse, coarse and medium sand fractions was determined by point-counting of the interfacial boundaries discriminating 36 types of interfaces categories, both no-isomineralic and/or no iso-structural (e.g., phenocrystal/glassy groundmass or phenocrystal/microlitic groundmass boundaries) and iso-mineralic interfaces, inside volcanic lithic grains with lathwork and porphyric textures. A total of 47,386 interfacial boundaries have been counted and, the most representative series of interfaces, from the highest to the lowest preservation, can be grouped as: a) ultrastable interfaces, categorized asPl (Plagioclase)/Glgr (Glassy groundmass) > > Px (Pyroxene)/Glgr > > Ol (Olivine)/Glgr > > Op (Opaque)/Glgr > > Hbl (Hornblende)/Glgr> > Bt (Biotite)/Glgr > > Idd (Iddingsite)/Glgr > > Rt (Rutile) / Glgr; b) stable interfaces, categorized asPl/Migr (Microlitic groundmass) > > Op/Migr > > Px/Migr > > Ol/Migr; c) moderately stable interfaces, categorized asOp/Px > > Op/Hbl > > Px/P > > Ol/Pl> > Bt/Op; and d) unstable interfaces, categorized asPl/Pl > > Px/Px > > Ol/Ol > > Op/Op > > Hbl/Hbl > > Bt/Bt.Grains, eroded from the volcanic bedrock, if affected solely by abrasion, developed a rounded and smoothed form, with prevailing no-isostructural interfaces such as Plagioclase/Glassy groundmass, Pyroxene/Glassy groundmass and Olivine/Glassy groundmass interfaces. Grains that during transport suffered fracturing and percussion have a sharp and angular form: these combined transport mechanisms produce mainly volcanic sandy grains with iso-structural interfaces, such as Pl/Pl, Px/Px, Hbl/Hbl, and, to a lesser extent, Bt/Op and Bt/Glgr interfaces.
Prevalence and determinants of mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact in The Gambia: a secondary data analysis
Authors: Ekholuenetale Michael , Onikan Adeyinka , Ekholuenetale Charity Ehimwenma
Published: August 2020

Background

Skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between mother and the newborn brings many benefits including its potential to promote the survival of the newborn. Nevertheless, it is a practice that is underutilized in many resource-constrained settings including The Gambia where a high rate of maternal and child mortality has been reported. In this study, we examined the prevalence and determinants of mother and newborn SSC in The Gambia.

Methods

We used secondary data from The Gambia Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS)—2018. Data from 9205 women between 15-49 years who gave birth within 5 years of the survey was extracted for the analysis. Percentages and chi-square test were used for analyses. The significant variables from chi-square test were included in the multivariable binary logistic regression model to calculate the adjusted odds ratios (with corresponding 95% CI) of the factors associated with mother and newborn SSC.

Results

The results of this study showed that the national prevalence of mother and newborn SSC was 35.7%. Across local government areas; Mansakonko (47.8%) and Kerewan (44.2%) had the highest prevalence, while Basse (28.5%) and Brikama (26.5%) had the least prevalence of mother and newborn SSC in The Gambia. Based on results from the logit model, normal weight (at least 2.5 kg) children were 1.37 times as likely to have mother and newborn SSC, compared with the low birthweight (< 2.5 kg) children (OR = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.78). In addition, there was 38% increase in the odds of rural women who reported mother and newborn SSC, compared with urban women (OR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.79). Women who delivered at health facility were 3.35 times as likely to have mother and newborn SSC, compared with women who delivered at home (OR = 3.35; 95% CI: 2.37, 4.75). Furthermore, women who initiated antenatal care (ANC) after the first trimester had 21% reduction in the odds of mother and newborn SSC, compared with women who initiated ANC within the first trimester (OR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.68, 0.93).

Conclusion

The prevalence of mother and newborn SSC was low. In addition, geographical residence, birth weight, urban-rural residential status, place of delivery, and timing to ANC initiation were associated with mother and newborn SSC. There is a need to promote institutional based delivery using skilled birth attendance, promote early ANC initiation and healthy fetal growth.
Characterization of elastic mechanical properties of Tuscaloosa Marine Shale from well logs using the vertical transversely isotropic model
Authors: Ruse Cristina Mariana , Mokhtari Mehdi
Published: August 2020

To avoid steep declines in the Tuscaloosa Marine Shale (TMS) production, wells are fracture-stimulated to release the hydrocarbons trapped in the matrix of the formation. An accurate estimation of Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio is essential for hydraulic fracture propagation. In addition, ignoring the highly heterogeneous and anisotropic character of TMS can lead to erroneous stress values, which subsequently affect hydraulic fracture width estimates and the overall hydraulic fracturing process. We have developed an empirical 1D geomechanical model that takes into account VTI anisotropy, and it is used to characterize the elastic mechanical properties of TMS in two wells. In the analyzed formation, the vertical Poisson’s ratio is less than the horizontal Poisson’s ratio, which suggests the necessity of an alternative to the ANNIE equations. The stiffness coefficients [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] were estimated using the relationships developed from the ultrasonic core data available for the two TMS. Further, correlations between the static and dynamic properties from laboratory tests were used to improve the minimum horizontal stress calculation. We compare VTI Young’s moduli, Poisson’s ratios, and minimum horizontal stress with the isotropic solution. VTI modeling improves the estimation of the elastic mechanical properties. The isotropic solution underestimates the minimum horizontal stress in the formation. Moreover, it was shown that the 20 ft shale interval below the TMS base is characterized by a low Young’s modulus (the vertical Young’s modulus is equal to 20 GPa, whereas the horizontal Young’s modulus is equal to 40 GPa) and may be a frac barrier.
Regional subsurface mapping and 3D flexural modeling of the obliquely converging Putumayo foreland basin, southern Colombia
Authors: Pachón-Parra Luis Fernando , Mann Paul , Cardozo Nestor
Published: August 2020

The Putumayo foreland basin (PFB) is an underexplored hydrocarbon-bearing basin located in southernmost Colombia. The PFB forms a 250 km long segment of the 7000 km long corridor of Late Cretaceous-Cenozoic foreland basins produced by eastward thrusting of the Andean mountain chain over Precambrian rocks of the South American craton. We have used approximately 4000 km of 2D seismic data tied to 28 exploratory wells to describe the basin-wide structure and stratigraphy. Based on seismic interpretation and comparison with published works from the southward continuation of the PFB into Peru and Ecuador, three main across strike, structural zones include (1) the 20 km wide, western structural zone closest to the Andean mountain front characterized by inversion of older, Jurassic half-grabens during the Late Miocene, (2) the 45 km wide, central structural zone characterized by moderately inverted Jurassic half-grabens, and (3) the 120 km wide, eastern structural zone (ESZ) characterized by the 40 km wide, north–south-trending Caquetá arch. The five mainly clastic tectonosequences of the PFB include (1) Lower Cretaceous pre-foreland basin deposits, (2) upper Cretaceous-Paleocene foreland basin deposits, (3) Eocene foreland basin deposits related to the early uplift of the eastern Cordillera, (4) Oligocene-Miocene underfilled, foreland basin deposits, and (5) Plio-Pleistocene overfilled, foreland basin deposits. We used 3D flexural modeling to identify the elastic thickness ([Formula: see text]) of the lithosphere below the PFB, and to model the location of the sedimentary-related and tectonically related forebulges of Cretaceous to Oligocene age. Flexural analysis finds two pulses of rapid, foreland-related subsidence first during the Late Cretaceous-early Paleocene and later during the Oligocene-Miocene. Despite the present-day oblique thrusting of the mountain front, flexure of the PFB basement has produced a tectonic forebulge now located in ESZ and controls a basement high that forms the eastern updip limit for most hydrocarbons found in the PFB.