bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of The MADS-Box Gene Family and Its Expression in The Various Developmental Stage and Stress Conditions in Foxtail Millet (Setaria Italica)
Authors: Lai Dili , Yan Jun , He Ailing , Xue Guoxing , Yang Hao , Feng Liang , Wei Xiaobao , Li Long , Xiang Dabing , Ruan Jingjun , Fan Yu , Cheng Jianping
Published: September 2021

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) is rich in nutrients and extremely beneficial to human health. We identified and comprehensively analyzed 89 MADS-box genes in the foxtail millet genome. According to the classification of MADS-box genes in Arabidopsis thaliana and rice, the SiMADS-box genes were divided into M-type (37) and MIKC-type (52). During evolution, the differentiation of MIKC-type MADS-box genes occurred before that of monocotyledons and dicotyledons. The SiMADS-box gene structure has undergone much differentiation, and the number of exons in the MIKC-type subfamily is much greater than that in the M-type subfamily. Analysis of gene duplication events revealed that MIKC-type MADS-box gene fragment duplication accounted for the vast majority of gene duplication events, and MIKC-type MADS-box genes played a major role in the amplification of SiMADS-box genes. Collinearity analysis showed highest collinearity between foxtail millet and maize MADS-box genes. Analysis of tissue-specific expression showed that SiMADS-box genes are highly expressed throughout the grain-filling process. Expression analysis of SiMADS-box genes under eight different abiotic stresses revealed many stress-tolerant genes, with induced expression of SiMADS33 and SiMADS78 under various stresses warranting further attention. Further, some SiMADS-box proteins may interact to cope with external stress. This study provides insights for MADS-box gene mining and molecular breeding of foxtail millet in the future.
Probing Elastic Anisotropy of Human Skin in Vivo With Light Using Non-Contact Acoustic Micro-Tapping OCE and Polarization-Sensitive OCT
Authors: Kirby Mitchell , Tang Peijun , Liou Hong-Cin , Kuriakose Maju , Pitre John J. , Pham Tam N. , Ettinger Russell , Wang Ruikang , O’Donnell Matthew , Pelivanov Ivan
Published: September 2021

Skin broadly protects the human body from undesired factors such as ultraviolet radiation and abrasion and helps conserve body temperature and hydration. Skin’s elasticity and its level of anisotropy are key to its aesthetics and function. Currently, however, treatment success is often speculative and subjective, and is rarely based on skin’s elastic properties because there is no fast and accurate non-contact method for imaging of skin’s elasticity. Here we report on a non-contact and non-invasive method to image and characterize skin’s elastic anisotropy. It combines acoustic micro-tapping optical coherence elastography (AmT-OCE) with a nearly incompressible transversely isotropic (NITI) model to quantify skin’s elastic moduli. In addition, skin sites were imaged with polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) to help define the fiber orientation. Forearm skin areas were investigated in five volunteers. Results clearly demonstrate elastic anisotropy of skin in all subjects. AmT-OCE has distinct advantage over competitive techniques because it provides objective, quantitative characterization of skin’s elasticity without contact, which opens the door for broad translation into clinical use. Finally, we demonstrate that a combination of multiple OCT modalities (structural OCT, OCT angiography, PS-OCT and AmT-OCE) may provide rich information about skin and can be used to characterize scaring.
A Single-center Prospective Study on the Efficacy of Nivolumab Against Platinum-sensitive Recurrent or Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Okamoto Isaku , Tsukahara Kiyoaki , Sato Hiroki
Published: September 2021

Nivolumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, reportedly benefits patients with platinum-refractory recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M-HNSCC). However, platinum-sensitive R/M-HNSCC has not yet been studied. Hence, this prospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of nivolumab in patients with platinum-sensitive R/M-HNSCC. This prospective single-arm study was conducted in a single institution in Japan. Patients with platinum-sensitive R/M-HNSCC (defined as head and neck cancer that recurred or metastasized at least 6 months after platinum-based chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy) were enrolled. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). The secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), immune-related adverse events (irAEs), and quality of life (QOL). This study was registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000031324). Twenty-two patients with platinum-sensitive R/M-HNSCC were enrolled. The median OS was 17.4, and the 1-year OS rate was 73%. The median PFS was 9.6 months, and the 1-year PFS rate was 48%. The ORR was 36%. In total, 16 irAEs were recorded in 12 patients; however, no grade 4 or 5 irAEs were observed. The QOL assessments revealed that nivolumab did not decrease the QOL of patients. Nivolumab is effective against platinum-sensitive R/M-HNSCC with acceptable safety.
Effect of Transverse Magnetic Field On Microstructure And Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Manufactured By Laser-MIG Hybrid Welding
Authors: Yue Chen , Geng Shaoning , Jiang Ping , Yin Annan
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the external transverse magnetic field is used to assist the laser-MIG hybrid welding for Ti-6Al-4V (TC4). The microstructure and mechanical properties such as microhardness and tensile properties of the weld joints under 24 mT external magnetic field (EMF) and the referring weld joint without EMF are investigated and discussed. Results show that transfer layer (TL) performs the lowest microhardness in the weld seam and tensile specimens fail in this area for the referring weld joint without EMF, which indicates the TL is the weakest zone in the weld seam. The mechanical properties of weld seam improve significantly under 24 mT EMF, which average microhardness in TL increases 9.3% and failure stress of tensile specimens improve by 16.7%, whilst a mixed fracture mode is operative in the fracture surfaces. The research reveals the elementary microstructure of TC4 laser-MIG hybrid welding is in correlation to welding heat input under the influence of EMF.
Current Status and Trend of Clinical Development of Orphan Drugs in China
Authors: Xiang Ziling , Jiang Wengao , Yan Bo , Jiang Junhao , Zheng Hang
Published: September 2021

Background:Rare diseases have been increasingly recognized as medical and healthy burden worldwide, a growing demand for the development of orphan drugs emerges subsequently. Therefore, it is of great interest for both the regulatory agency and pharmaceutical companies to keep tract on the clinical orphan drug development in China.Objective and Method:This study aims to reveal the current situation and trend of the clinical development of orphan drugs in China, based on the data collected from the Platform for Drug Clinical Trials and Information Registration（http://www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn）of China Food and Drug Administration, dating from 2013 to March 8, 2021.Results:A total of 246 clinical trials for orphan drugs are extracted from the Platform, covering 22 rare diseases and 90 drugs. Among the 22 rare diseases, 3 (14 %) have more than 50 trials each , 17 (77%) had less than10 trials, and 10 (46%) only with one trial. Among 90 orphan drugs, 60 (67%) were chemical drugs, and 30 (33 %) were biological products. In addition, international multi-center trials accounts for nearly 10% of the total trials. The number of the trials with the Data Monitoring Security Committee (DMC) is 25 (10%) and the number of the trials with the trial injury insurance for subjects is 154 (63%). Furthermore, more than half of the total trials are carried in east (333, 30%) and north China (298, 27%), whereas a small portion are in the northwest (62, 6%) and northeast china (45, 4%).Conclusions:The clinical development of orphan drugs for rare diseases in China has made some progress in the passing decades. However, a couple of critical issues still need to be addressed, such as unmet needs for some rare diseases, low coverage of insurance and DMC, and uneven distribution of medical resources for clinical researches. Recommendations are put forward accordingly, which can provide improvement goals for policy makers and stakeholders involved in drug development for rare diseases.
Clinical and Quality of Life Outcomes of a Combined Synthetic Scaffold and Autogenous Tissue Graft Procedure for Articular Cartilage Repair in the Knee
Authors: Rosa Fernando Martins , Fernandes Julio Cesar , Delisle Josée , Ranger Pierre , Albano Mauro Batista , Filho Edmar Stieven
Published: September 2021

Background: Injuries to the articular cartilage of the knee often fail to heal properly, due to the hypocellular and avascular nature of this tissue. Subsequent disability can limit participation in sports and decrease quality of life. Subchondral bone perforations are used for the treatment of small defects. Larger lesions filling out the central portion becomes difficult, and scaffolds can be used as adjuvants, providing a matrix onto which the defect can be filled in completely and also autogenous cartilage grafts can be combined, acting as an inducer and improving healing quality, all in a single procedure.Methods: Evaluate the clinical and quality of life outcomes of patients with articular cartilage lesions of the knee undergoing repair via a microfracture technique combined with a synthetic scaffold and autogenous cartilage graft, with transosseous sutures and fibrin glue fixation, at 12 months of follow-up. Secondarily, assess whether combined procedures, previous surgical intervention, traumatic aetiology, lesion location, and age affect outcomes. Observational study of adult patients (age 18–66 years) with symptoms consistent with chondral or osteochondral lesions, isolated or multiple, ICRS grade III/IV, 2–12 cm2 in size. Patients with corrected angular deviations or instabilities were included. Those with BMI > 40 kg/m2, prior total or subtotal (> 30%) meniscectomy, second-look procedures, and follow-up < 6 months were excluded. Pain (VAS), physical activity (IKDC), osteoarthritis (WOMAC), and general quality of life (SF-36) were assessed.Results: 64 procedures were included, comprising 60 patients. There was significant improvement (P < 0.05) in VAS (5.92 to 2.37), IKDC score (33.44 to 56.33), and modified WOMAC score (53.26 to 75.93) after surgery. The SF-36 showed significant improvements in the physical and mental domains (30.49 to 40.23 and 46.43 to 49.84 respectively; both P < 0.05).Conclusions: Combination of microfractures, autogenous crushed cartilage graft, synthetic scaffold, and transosseous sutures with fibrin glue provides secure fixation for treatment of articular cartilage lesions of the knee. At 12-month follow-up, function had improved by 20 points on the IKDC and WOMAC, and quality of life by 10 points on the SF-36. Age > 45 years had a negative impact on outcomes.
Potential Neuroprotective Effect of Nanomicelle Curcumin on Learning and Memory Functions Following Subacute Exposure to Bisphenol a in Adult Male Rats
Authors: Fallahnezhad Somaye , Ghorbani-Taherdehi Faezeh , Nadim Azade , Kafashzadeh Mehrnaz , Kafashzadeh Mehrnoosh , Gorji-Valokola Mahmoud
Published: September 2021

ObjectiveBisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that widely used in plastics production. It can influence on the brain tissue. Curcumin has a strong protective activity against brain disorders. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of nanomicelle curcumin (NmCur) on BPA-induced learning and memory disorders in rats.Material and methodsIn this study, after determining the dose of BPA, rats were randomly divided into 8 groups (8 rats in each group); sesame oil, dextrose 5%, sesame oil + dextrose 5%, NmCur (50 mg/kg), BPA (50 mg/kg), and 50 mg/kg BPA plus 10, 25, or 50 mg/kg NmCur, respectively. All materials administered via gavage. Behavioral tests were estimated by shuttle-box, open-field, and Morris water maze devices. Then, stress oxidative, pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress-scavenging enzymes levels, as well as expression of MAPK proteins, glutamate receptors, and memory-related proteins were determined in the hippocampus and cortex tissues. ResultsBPA significantly increased expression of ROS, MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, SOD, GST, p-P38, and p-JNK; however, considerably decreased GSH, GPx, GR, CAT, p-AKT, p-ERK1/2 levels. In addition, it down regulated expression of p-NR1, p-NR2A, p-NR2B, p-GluA1, BDNF, and p-CREB in rat cortex and hippocampus tissues. BPA significantly also changed behavioral activity. Conversely, BPA (50 mg/kg) plus NmCur (25 and 50 mg/kg) significantly reversed all BPA-induced adverse effects. ConclusionThe results of this study support that nanomicelle curcumin exhibited preventive effects against neurotoxicity and learning and memory impairment induced by subacute exposure to bisphenol A.
Holotoxin Disassembly by Protein Disulfide Isomerase Is Less Efficient for Escherichia Coli Heat-labile Enterotoxin Than Cholera Toxin
Authors: Serrano Albert , Guyette Jessica L. , Heim Joel B. , Taylor Michael , Cherubin Patrick , Krengel Ute , Teter Ken , Tatulian Suren
Published: September 2021

Cholera toxin (CT) and Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin (LT) are structurally similar AB5-type protein toxins. They move from the cell surface to the endoplasmic reticulum where the A1 catalytic subunit is separated from its holotoxin by protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), thus allowing the dissociated A1 subunit to enter the cytosol for a toxic effect. Despite similar mechanisms of toxicity, CT is more potent than LT. The difference has been attributed to a more stable domain assembly for CT as compared to LT, but this explanation has not been directly tested and is arguable as toxin disassembly is an indispensable step in the cellular action of these toxins. We show here that PDI disassembles CT more efficiently than LT, which provides a possible explanation for the greater potency of the former toxin. Furthermore, direct examination of CT and LT domain assemblies found no difference in toxin stability. Using novel analytic geometry approaches, we provide a detailed characterization of the positioning of the A subunit with respect to the B5 pentamer and demonstrate significant differences in the interdomain architecture of CT and LT. Protein docking analysis further shows that these global structural differences result in distinct modes of PDI-toxin interactions. Our results highlight previously overlooked structural differences between CT and LT that provide a new molecular explanation for the PDI-assisted disassembly and differential potency of these toxins.
Characteristic Analysis and Electrical Conductivity of Graphene and Graphene-Nanosilver Prepared by Electrical Spark Discharge Method
Authors: Tseng Kuo-Hsiung , Yeh Chu-Ti , Ku Hsueh-Chien , Tien Der-Chi , Stobinski Leszek
Published: September 2021

This study used an electric discharge machine (EDM) to perform the electrical spark discharge method (ESDM) to prepare a graphene colloid and a graphene-Ag colloid. The characteristic wavelengths of graphene, and graphene-Ag are both 262 nm. They had the properties of high dispersion and are unlikely to aggregate. The XRD patterns of graphene and graphene-Ag are typical carbon diffraction peak angles and crystal orientations. Graphene-Ag in DW can increase the Raman signal intensity of graphene. Regarding the graphene colloid and graphene-Ag colloid, their average sheet resistance values are 0.0329 MΩ/sq and 0.00136 MΩ/sq, respectively. Moreover, when AgNPs composited with graphene layers, the average sheet resistance is only 1/24 that of graphene layers, indicating that graphene-Ag has superior conductivity.
Thin Flexible Lab-on-a-Film for Impedimetric Sensing in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Farooq Amina , Hayat Fezan , Zafar Sobia , Butt Nauman Zafar
Published: September 2021

Microfluidic cytometers based on coulter principle have recently shown a great potential for point of care biosensors for medical diagnostics. Here, we explore the design of an impedimetric microfluidic cytometer on flexible substrate. Two coplanar microfluidic geometries are compared to highlight the sensitivity of the device to the microelectrode positions relative to the detection volume. We show that the microelectrodes surface area and the geometry of the sensing volume for the cells strongly influence the output response of the sensor. Reducing the sensing volume decreases the pulse width but increases the overall pulse amplitude with an enhanced signal-to-noise ratio (~max. SNR=38.78dB). For the proposed design, the SNR was adequate to enable good detection and differentiation of 10 µm diameter polystyrene beads and leukemia cells (~6-21 µm). Also, a systematic approach for irreversible & strong bond strength between the thin flexible surfaces that make up the biochip is explored in this work. We observed the changes in surface wettability due to various methods of surface treatment can be a valuable metric for determining bond strength. We observed permanent bonding between microelectrode defined polypropylene surface and microchannel carved PDMS due to polar/silanol groups formed by plasma treatment and consequent covalent crosslinking by amine groups. These experimental insights provide valuable design guidelines for enhancing the sensitivity of coulter based flexible lab-on-a-chip devices which have a wide range of applications in point of care diagnostics.
The H2FPEF and HFA-PEFF Algorithms for Predicting Exercise Intolerance and Abnormal Hemodynamics in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Amanai Shiro , Harada Tomonari , Kagami Kazuki , Yoshida Kuniko , Kato Toshimitsu , Wada Naoki , Obokata Masaru
Published: September 2021

Exercise intolerance is a primary manifestation of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and is associated with abnormal hemodynamics and poor quality of life. Two multiparametric scoring systems have been proposed to diagnose HFpEF. This study sought to determine the performance of the H2FPEF and HFA-PEFF scores for predicting exercise capacity and echocardiographic measures of intracardiac pressures during exercise. Patients with HFpEF (n = 83) and control subjects without HF (n = 104) underwent bicycle exercise echocardiography. In a subset, simultaneous expired gas analysis was performed to measure peak oxygen consumption (VO2). The H2FPEF score was obtainable in all patients while the HFA-PEFF score could not be calculated in 23 patients (feasibility 88%). Both H2FPEF and HFA-PEFF scores were correlated with higher E/e’ ratio (r = 0.49 and r = 0.46), lower systolic tricuspid annular velocity (r=-0.44 and =-0.24), and lower cardiac output (r=-0.28 and r=-0.24) during peak exercise. Peak VO2 and exercise duration decreased with increasing the H2FPEF score (r=-0.40 and r=-0.32), and the H2FPEF score predicted reduced aerobic capacity (AUC 0.71, p = 0.0005), but the HFA-PEFF score did not (p = 0.07). These data provide new insights into the role of the H2FPEF and HFA-PEFF scores for predicting exercise intolerance and abnormal hemodynamics in patients HFpEF.
Thymoquinone Improved Nonylphenol-Induced Memory Deficit and Neurotoxicity Trough its Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Effects
Authors: Lotfi Mandana , Kazemi Sohrab , Ebrahimpour Anahita , Pourabdolhossein Fereshteh , Satarian Seyed Leila , Eghbali Atiyeh , Moghadamnia Ali Akbar
Published: September 2021

Nonylphenol (NP) as a well-known endocrine-disrupter chemical (EDCs), has several harmful effects on the CNS such as neuroendocrine disruption, cognitive impairment, and neurotoxicity. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a main bioactive compound in the black seeds of nigella sativa (NS) possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This study was designed to assess the neuroprotective effect of TQ against NP-induced memory deficit and neurotoxicity in rats. To induce memory impairment, NP (25mg/kg) was used as gavage in male Wistar rats for 21 days. TQ i.p. injection at doses 2.5, 5, and 10mg/kg was done in NP-treated animals at the same time. Morris Water Maze (MWM) test was performed to assess spatial memory. The rats` hippocampus tissues were isolated for histopathological testes. Biochemical, molecular and cellular tests were done for proving more details. The results showed TQ at dose 5 mg/kg significantly improved NP-induced memory impairment. Histological data proved that TQ decreased the number of necrotic cells in the hippocampus which was increased in NP-treated animals. Biochemical analysis showed that the levels of glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were significantly increased in TQ treated groups compared to the NP group. The molecular analysis has shown that NP increased GFAP and decreased α-Syn expression level and TQ treatment did the reverse. In vitro study in astrocytes isolated from mice brain proved that TQ significantly increased cell viability in cytotoxicity induced by NP. This study strongly indicates that TQ has therapeutic and neuroprotective effects on NP-induced neurotoxicity through reduction of oxidative damages and neuroinflammation.
Cryoablation Using Liquid Nitrogen for Metastatic Lung Cancers
Authors: Nomori Hiroaki , Yamazaki Ikuo , Adachi Takuya , ME Masaya Kanno
Published: September 2021

AimsTo identify factors that were associated with local control after cryoablation for metastatic lung tumors and to compare preserved pulmonary function according to tumor number.MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated 68 patients with 121 metastatic lung tumors that were treated with cryoablation using liquid nitrogen during 2013–2019. Primary outcome was whether local control was related with tumor size, histology, location, and distance to a vessel with a diameter of ≥3 mm. Secondary outcome was whether preserved pulmonary function varied according to number of treated tumors. ResultsMedian follow-up period was 32 months (range: 4–87 months).Histological types were carcinomas in 95 tumors and sarcoma in 26 tumors. Multivariate analysis revealed that local control was significantly associated with tumor size (p<0.001), histology (p<0.001), and distance from a vessel with a diameter of ≥3 mm (p=0.03). Among tumors with a diameter of ≥2.2 cm, poorer local control was observed for sarcomas (p<0.001) and tumors that were ≤3 mm from the vessel (p=0.009), although these relationships were not significant among tumors with a diameter of <2.2 cm (p=0.44 and p=0.16). Relative to cryoablation for a single tumor, cryoablation for multiple tumors was associated with significantly lower preservation of pulmonary function (p=0.002). Conclusion﻿Poor local control after cryoablation was significantly associated with tumor size ≥2.2 cm, sarcoma histology, and tumors that were ≤3 mm from a vessel with a diameter of ≥3 mm. Preserved pulmonary function declined significantly with an increasing number of treated tumors.
Identification of barriers and facilitators in providing medication-assisted treatment for opioid users in Central Asia and China
Authors: Sultan Aysel , Michels Ingo Ilja , Stöver Heino
Published: September 2021

Implementation of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid users in Asia has been slow to develop and is currently under-researched in the international drug policy field. On the basis of a systematic literature review and expert interviews, this article explores the barriers and facilitators in provision of MAT in Central Asian countries and Public’s Republic China. To review the dynamics since 2011, we conducted a systematic literature review to complement informal expert interviews, and synthesize our results with the available statistical data and grey literature. Our review includes 42 selected articles and reports, and maps out the recent developments in MAT and related research in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and China. The implications of this study suggest a need for future research to design better methods for successful scaling-up of access and integration of MAT for opioid users.
Pan-cancer characterization of GDF15 as a potential prognosis and immunological biomarker
Authors: Li Xiaolei , Huai Qian , Zhu Cheng , Du Yishan , Ma Fang , Zhang Xu , Dai Hanren , Wang Hua
Published: September 2021

Background
Growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a member of the TGF-b superfamily whose expression is increased in response to cellular stress and disease. Although emerging cell-or animal-based evidence supports the relationship between GDF15 and cancers, systematic pan-cancer analysis of GDF15 remains unavailable. Thus, we aimed to explore the prognostic and immunological roles of GDF15 across different types of tumors.
Methods
A comprehensive analysis of GDF15 in 33 types of cancer was performed based on the TCGA database. This involved an analysis of mRNA expression profiles, genetic alterations, methylation, prognostic values, immune infiltration analysis, potential biological pathways. Moreover, both the gain and loss of function strategies were used to assess the function of GDF15 in cell lines of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Results
GDF15 is highly expressed in most types of cancers, and there is a significant correlation between the expression of GDF15 and the prognosis of cancer patients. We have observed that GDF15 promotes the proliferation and invasion of HCC cell lines. Subsequently, methylation analyses suggested that high GDF15 expression likely resulted from hypomethylation, and immune infiltration analysis showed that GDF15 may have an impact on the changes in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, enrichment analysis revealed that TGF-beta signaling and metabolism pathways were involved in the functional mechanisms of GDF15.
Conclusions
Our unpresented pan-cancer analysis of GDF15 offers a relatively comprehensive overview of the oncogenic roles of GDF15 in multiple human cancers. GDF15 may prompt HCC cellular proliferation, invasion and metastasis. All of these provides solid basement and will promote more advanced understanding the role of GDF15 in tumorigenesis and development from the perspective of clinical tumor samples and cells.
Exploring educational service quality and improvement priorities from the viewpoints of health sciences students using the SERVQUAL model
Authors: Al-Rabia Mohammed , Fasfous Ismail , Eldigre Mohamed , Aldarmahi Ahmed , Alzahrani Sami , Atwa Hani
Published: September 2021

Background
In higher education institutes, there are competitive and tussling environments to provide students with a high educational and service quality. Service quality is the key to meet or exceed student expectations. The quality of health systems, therefore; would be directly dependent on the quality of medical sciences education. In the current study, the modified SERVQUAL model was applied to assess the quality of the educational service provided at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) in Saudi Arabia.
Methods
This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study that was conducted within the Faculties of Medicine, Applied Medical Sciences, Dentistry, and Pharmacy. Through applying the modified SERVQUAL model, the gap between students' perceptions and expectations was calculated and correlated with other demographic data. The ratio of students’ perception to their expectation was calculated as a probe of student satisfaction in the current educational services to enable prioritizing items for improvement.
Results
The response rate was 89% (n = 266). Out of the 266 participants, 87% were females and 13% were males. Comparisons between the gap values of male and female students showed a significant difference in the assurance and responsiveness dimensions of the educational service quality at KAU. The results showed that all items have negative gap values (except item 24). The findings showed a significant difference of students’ opinion in SERVQUAL dimensions among different Faculties except in empathy.
Conclusion
The findings of this study showed that all dimensions were not up to the expectations of students. Reliability dimension and its items should be given the highest priority for improvement based on gap, ratio, and service improved matrix. The findings of this study will be very useful for the higher management to design the University Strategic Plan with well-defined direction and priorities for the improvement processes based on SERVQUAL outcomes.
Internet addiction and related psychosocial factors among Pakistani population during Covid19
Authors: Lakhdir Maryam Pyar Ali , Hameed Ayesha Nasir , Hasnani Fauzia Basaria , Angez Meher , Nawaz Muhammad Talha , Khan Malik Muhammad Hamza , Peerwani Ghazal , Nathwani Apsara Ali , Azam Syed Iqbal
Published: September 2021

Background

Internet addiction has surfaced as a significant concern to public health in these unprecedented Covid19 times due to social distancing and lockdown. This study aims to determine the burden of internet addiction and related psychosocial factors among the Pakistani population amidst COVID-19
Methods

An analytical cross-sectional survey was broadcasted on internet via google form link which was completed by 1145 Pakistani residents. The outcome variable was Internet addiction and was assessed using the "Young's Internet Addiction Test" (IAT). In addition, symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress were evaluated using the "Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21" (DASS-21). The multinomial logistic regression was applied, and adjusted odds ratio along with 95% confidence intervals were reported for significant factors associated with Internet addiction.
Results

The majority of participants were females and youth (between ages 20–24 years). The prevalence of problematic-internet-users (PIU) and addictive-internet-users (AIU) was 27.3% and 11.3%, respectively. The odds of extremely severe anxiety among AIU were approximately three times (Adj OR: 2.6 (1.1–7.1) followed by the odds of having extremely severe depression was 3.14 (95% C.I.: 1.53–6.44) times greater among PIUand odds of extremely severe stress being about five times higher among AIU (Adj OR: 5.42 (1.66–17.68)) as compared to normal-internet-user (NIU).
Conclusion

Amid Covid 19, the burden of internet addiction was discovered to have surged among the Pakistani populace. This study found that gender, marital status, depression, stress, anxiety, work situation, and mood changes amidst the pandemic are significantly associated with problematic and addictive internet use.
Implementation Strategies to Support Evidence-Informed Symptom Management Among Outpatient Oncology Nurses: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Teggart Kylie , Bryant-Lukosius Denise , Neil-Sztramko Sarah E. , Ganann Rebecca
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Despite the availability of clinical practice guidelines for cancer symptom management, cancer care providers do not consistently utilize them in practice. Oncology nurses in outpatient settings are well-positioned to use established guidelines to inform symptom assessment and management; however, issues concerning inconsistent implementation persist. This scoping review aims to identify and describe the components of implementation strategies that have been used to enhance the adoption, implementation, and sustainability of symptom management guidelines among specialized and advanced oncology nurses in cancer-specific outpatient settings. Factors influencing guideline implementation will also be identified.
Methods and analysis:

This scoping review will follow Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Electronic databases CINAHL, Embase, Emcare, MEDLINE(R), and grey literature sources will be searched for studies published in English since the year 2000. Primary studies and grey literature reports of any design that include specialized or advanced oncology nurses practicing in cancer-specific outpatient settings will be eligible. Sources describing implementation strategies to enhance the adoption, implementation, and sustainability of cancer symptom management guidelines and/or factors influencing implementation will be included. Two reviewers will independently screen for eligibility and extract data. Data extraction will be guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Data will be analyzed descriptively and synthesized according to CFIR constructs. Results will be presented through tabular/diagrammatic formats and narrative summary.
Ethics and dissemination:

Ethics approval is not required for this scoping review. Planned knowledge translation activities include a national conference presentation, peer-reviewed publication, academic social media channels, and dissemination within local oncology nursing and patient networks.
Hybride Gesellschaften im Verhältnis Schweiz-Deutschland
Authors: Kollruss Thomas
Published: September 2021

Grundsätzlich treten im Staatenverhältnis Schweiz-Deutschland keine hybriden Gesellschaften auf, da die Rechtsformen und die jeweiligen steuerlichen Einordnungsmethodiken weitgehend korrespondieren. Jedoch sind vorgeschaltete hybride Gesellschaften mit einer Betriebsstätte in der Schweiz möglich. Sie können für ausländische Investoren attraktiv sein und steuerliche Vorteile mit sich bringen. Der vorliegende Beitrag befasst sich mit der Einordnung und Besteuerung von hybriden Gesellschaften im Verhältnis Schweiz-Deutschland und insbesondere mit dem in der Literatur bisher kaum beachteten Sonderfall der vorgeschalteten hybriden Gesellschaft mit schweizerischer Betriebsstätte.

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En principe, les sociétés hybrides ne sont pas traitées dans le cadre des relations entre la Suisse et l’Allemagne car les formes juridiques et les méthodes de classification fiscale des deux pays sont largement équivalentes. Cependant, les sociétés hybrides existantes et qui ont un établissement stable en Suisse sont tout de même admises. D’ailleurs, elles peuvent se révéler attrayantes pour les investisseurs étrangers souhaitant profiter d’avantages fiscaux. Cet article traite d’un sujet encore peu abordé dans la littérature scientifique. Il présente la classification et l'imposition des sociétés hybrides dans les relations entre la Suisse et l'Allemagne et, en particulier, le cas spécifique de la société hybride déjà constituée avec un établissement stable en Suisse.
Alternate-year Production Is Not Profitable in Washington Floricane Red Raspberry Systems
Authors: DeVetter Lisa Wasko , Galinato Suzette , Kortus Troy , Maberry Jonathan
Published: September 2021

Floricane red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) produces biennial canes that are traditionally managed by annual selective removal of previously fruited floricanes and training of primocanes that will bear fruit in the next growing season. This process of pruning and training is labor intensive and costly, and growers would benefit from more economical methods of pruning and training. This 6-year project evaluated the economic viability of alternate-year (AY) production in a commercial floricane red raspberry field in northwest Washington and compared it to traditional, every-year (EY) production to assess whether the former could save costs. Despite savings from reduced chemicals, fertilizers, labor, general farm supplies, and other variable costs, the overall benefits of AY production were not enough to offset losses in revenue resulting from reduced yields under the conditions of this experiment in northwest Washington.
Anatomical Characteristics of Petalized Anther Abortion in Male Sterile Camellia oleifera Plants
Authors: Hu Yang , Gao Chao , Deng Quanen , Qiu Jie , Wei Hongli , Yang Lu , Xie Jiajun , Liao Desheng
Published: September 2021

Petalized anther abortion is an important characteristic of male sterility in plants. The male sterile plants (HB-21) evincing petalized anther abortion previously discovered in a clone population of the Camellia oleifera cultivar Huashuo by our research group were selected as the experimental material in this study. Using plant microscopy and anatomic methods and given the correspondence between external morphology and internal structure, we studied the anatomic characteristics of petalized anther abortion (with a fertile plant as the control group) in various stages, from flower bud differentiation to anther maturity, in hopes of providing a theoretical basis for research on and applications of male sterile C. oleifera plants, a new method for the selection of male sterile C. oleifera cultivars, and improvements in the yield and quality of C. oleifera. In this study, the development of anthers in C. oleifera was divided into 14 stages. Petalized anther abortion in male sterile plants was mainly initiated in the second stage (the stage of sporogenous cells). Either the petalized upper anther parts did not form pollen sacs, or the entire anthers did not form pollen sacs. The lower parts of some anthers could form deformed pollen sacs and develop, and these anthers could be roughly divided into two types: fully and partially petalized anthers. Abnormal callose and the premature degradation of the tapetum occurred in the pollen sacs formed by partially petalized anthers during the development process, resulting in the absence of inclusions in the pollen grains formed. Small quantities of mature pollen grains withered inward from the germinal furrows, exhibiting obvious abortion characteristics. The relative in vitro germination rate of the pollen produced by the partially petalized anthers of sterile plants was 11.20%, and the relative activity of triphenyltetrazolium chloride was 3.24%, while the fully petalized anthers did not generate pollen grains. Either the petalized anthers in male sterile plants did not produce pollen, or the vitality of the small amounts of pollen produced by sterile plants was very low compared with that of fertile plants. Such male sterile plants could be used to select correct clones and have good prospects for application in production.
Applicability of Cytological Grading of Carcinoma Breast
Authors: Pachori Saroj , Chaturvedi Kriti , Pachori Geeta , Tiwari Tarun , Jain Disha
Published: September 2021

Background: In India breast cancer incidence is on rise and large number of cases occur before 50 years of age. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are known to increase the survival of the patients. As fine needle aspiration cytology is widely used as a preliminary mode for the diagnosis of breast malignancies, adding a reliable grading system in reporting shall aid in planning the management options.

Methods: It’s a prospective study done on 100 cases of breast malignancies from June 2018 to May 2020 in department of Pathology JLNMC, Ajmer. Cytology smears were stained with H&E and Geimsa and graded according to Robinson’s cytological grading system while their corresponding histopathological sections were stained with H&E and graded as per Elston and Ellis modification of Scarff Bloom & Richardson grading system and the results were compared.

Result: Out of 100 cases of breast cancer evaluated in cytology 29% were grade I, 56% were grade II and 15% were grade III. On histopathological evaluation 25% were grade I, 54% were grade II while 21% were grade III. A highly significant association between the two grading systems was observed with coefficient of correlation 0.831, p value of <0.001 and concordance rate 80%.

Conclusion: There is high degree of concordance between the Robinson’s and Elston and Ellis modification of Scarff Bloom & Richardson grading system. Robinson’s method is an easy and quick and reliable method to grade carcinomas of breast, hence it should be included in cytology reporting of breast carcinomas.
Malignant Germ cell Tumor of Ovary: An Unusual Combination and An Irony of Fate
Authors: Sutradhar Arpita , Khan Enam Murshed , Gupta Shaikat , Maitra Sudipta Kumar , Ghosh Somdeep
Published: September 2021

Malignant mixed ovarian germ cell tumors are very rare malignant ovarian germ cell tumors, with a very high degree of malignancy. They are aggressive cancers affecting young adolescent girls. The commonest combination reported in literature is dysgerminoma and endodermal sinus tumors. Fertility sparing surgery followed by combination chemotherapy is the treatment of choice. The objectives of this case report are the advanced age of presentation, unusual histopathological combination, and the irony of infertility treatment. We report a rare case of 40-year-old woman with Malignant mixed germ cell tumor comprising of components of endodermal sinus tumor, immature teratoma, dysgerminoma and embryonal carcinoma. Patient was on hormonal therapy for the cause of infertility, presented with complains of lower abdominal pain, constipation and incomplete evacuation of bladder for 2months. Transvaginal ultrasonography and CT scan showed a large multicystic space occupying lesion with predominant solid component in midline abdominopelvic location. Tumor markers i.e., AFP, Prolactin and CA125 were raised. Total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingoophorectomy, pelvic and retroperitoneal node resection, peritonectomy and omentectomy was performed.
Sandwiches with Ham and Cheese, Vita Juice and Music from Gramophone Records: Celebrations of Children's Birthdays in Belgrade during The Period of Socialism
Authors: Krel Aleksandar , Đorđević Crnobrnja Jadranka ,   Institute of Ethnography SASA, Belgrade,   Institute of Ethnography SASA, Belgrade
Published: September 2021

The paper presents the results of our research on the social and cultural practices of celebrating children’s birthdays in Belgrade, the capital of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Children’s birthday parties are examined as a social construct with functions which are developed and modified according to their social and cultural significance. The research on this cultural and social phenomenon is based on the analysis and interpretation of the narratives (empirical material) of our interlocutors. The chronological frame extends from 1945 until 1991, i.e. over the period of the socialist social system. Since the majority of our interlocutors spoke about the way birthday parties were celebrated in the 70s and the 80s, i.e. at the time of their childhood, the research is focused on that period of time. In Yugoslav and Serbian socialist society this was a social and cultural practice with multiple functions: it served as a substitute for the religious customs related to childbirth and the baptizing of children; it homogenized the family and kinship structure; it was a channel for exteriorizing parental affection towards the children; side by side with the transformation into the consumerist society it became the instrument for creating and consolidating the complex net of social relationships which informed the broader social environment about the level of financial and social power of the organizers.
A controlled clinical study of the effects of the Ni-Ti Memoria® Leaf Spring Activated Expander
Authors: Manzella Kevin S. , Warunek Stephen , Conley R. Scott , Al-Jewair Thikriat
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate the dental effects of the Ni-Ti Memoria® Leaf Spring Activated Expander (MLSAE) in adolescent orthodontic patients presenting with maxillary transverse constriction.

Methods

This retrospective controlled clinical study included 22 patients consecutively treated with the Ni-Ti MLSAE (mean age = 12.72 ± 3.07; range = 6–16 yrs). The sample was compared with 22 untreated controls from the University of Michigan Growth Study. Controls were matched by gender, CVM stage and inter-first molar width. Digital dental casts were obtained at pretreatment, one week, monthly and post-expansion time-points. Maxillary dental arch measurements of inter-canine, interpremolar, inter-first molar, arch depth, arch perimeter and molar angulation were evaluated using 3Shape’s OrthoAnalyzer software. Data were analysed using paired sample and modified Student’s t-tests.

Results

Total mean expansion duration was 4.2 ± 1.23 months. Significant increases were observed between baseline and final inter-canine, inter-first and second premolars, inter-first molar, and arch perimeter measurements within the treatment group. No significant differences were found within the controls. Between group analyses showed statistically significant differences between the treatment and control groups for all variables except for arch depth and molar angulation. Average changes for inter-canine, inter-first premolar, inter-second premolar, inter-first molar, and arch perimeter were 1.04, 5.65, 5.80, 4.70 and 2.15 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

The Ni-Ti MLSAE is capable of obtaining adequate expansion in patients, 6–16 years of age, without causing significant dental tipping. It should be considered a slow expansion device that allows for calibrated expansion at a rate of 1–1.5 mm per month when following the suggested protocol.
Mandibular advancement appliance effects on obstructive sleep apnoea: a prospective threedimensional computed tomography study
Authors: Ghoneima Ahmed , Bodkin Cynthia , Stewart Kelton , Perlow Mark J. , Starbuck John , Kula Katherine
Published: September 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of an elastic mandibular advancement (EMA) appliance on upper airway dimensions, most constricted area (MCA) of the airway, and snoring in a sample of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) patients of varying severity.

Methods

Forty-seven male subjects were classified into two groups comprising12 controls and 35 suffering from OSA. The OSA group was further divided into three subgroups based on their apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI). All subjects completed an Epworth questionnaire and an overnight home sleep test before (T1) and at the end of the study (T2). OSA subjects were provided with a custom-made EMA appliance. Cone beam computed tomographic images were obtained for each subject at T1 and T2. Airway parameters were measured and summarised by grouping. The differences in the measurements T1 – T2 were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance (rmANOVA) and p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The use of the EMA produced a statistically significant increase in the nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, MCA, and total airway volume. Although sleep apnoea patients reported a reduction in snoring time, particularly in moderate and severe OSA groups, the level of improvement was not statistically significant. Patients with moderate and severe OSA demonstrated significant decreases in their AHI and Epworth scores.

Conclusion

EMA is effective in reducing OSA severity and changing airway dimensions in OSA patients, specifically in the moderate and severe cases.