bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Risk Factors for Dissatisfaction After Total Hip Arthroplasty Among Patients With Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Takemoto Genta , Seki Taisuke , Osawa Yusuke , takegami Yasuhiko , Kusano Taiki , Imagama Shiro
Published: November 2020

Background: The objective of this study was to investigate the preoperative risk factors for dissatisfaction after total hip arthroplasty for osteonecrosis of the femoral head.Methods: A total of 71 patients (91 hips) with osteonecrosis of the femoral head who underwent total hip arthroplasty surgery in our hospital were included. The degree of satisfaction was evaluated using a visual analogue scale one year after the total hip arthroplasty. The patients were divided into two groups: the satisfied group (S group; visual analogue scale score > 20 mm) and the dissatisfied group (D group; visual analogue scale score < 20 mm). The results of the preoperative quality-of-life self-assessments, including the Short Form-36 and Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire, were compared between the satisfied and dissatisfied groups. Multivariate analysis was performed to examine the independent preoperative risk factors.Results: There were 49 patients (64 hips) and 22 patients (27 hips) in the S and D groups, respectively. Patient age was significantly higher in the D group, and the movement and mental scores obtained with the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire and the Mental Component Summary scores of the Short Form-36 were significantly lower. However, there were no between-group differences in the pain score obtained with the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire and the Physical Component Summary and Role/Social Component Summary scores of the Short Form-36. Multivariate analysis showed that age and mental score obtained with the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire were independent risk factors.Conclusions: Preoperative age and mental score obtained with the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire strongly affected satisfaction levels observed one year after total hip arthroplasty in patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head.
Systematic analysis of RNAi-accessible SARS-CoV-2 replication steps identifies ORF1 as promising target
Authors: Ambike Shubhankar , Cheng Cho-Chin , Afridi Suliman , Feuerherd Martin , Hagen Philipp , Grass Vincent , Merkel Olivia , Pichlmair Andreas , Ko Chunkyu , Michler Thomas
Published: November 2020

A promising approach to combat SARS-CoV-2 constitute small interfering (si)RNAs. We systematically analyzed which SARS-CoV-2 replication steps are accessible for RNAi. We found that siRNAs can target the genome of incoming SARS-CoV-2 terminating replication after cell entry and preventing cytopathy. Suprisingly, siRNAs were not active against intermediate negative sense transcripts. Targeting sequences shared by different viral transcripts allowed simultaneous suppression of genomic and subgenomic viral RNAs by a single siRNA. The most effective suppression of viral replication and spread was achieved by siRNAs targeting open reading frame 1 (ORF1) which is solely part of genomic RNA. We propose that an improved accessibility of translational-active ORF1 during early replication, as well as the outcompetition of RNAi factors by common sequences of transcripts are responsible for this. Our work encourages efforts to develop siRNA-based therapies for COVID-19. Targeting ORF1, together with early treatment start or prophylactic use may be key for high antiviral efficiency.
Colostrum Avoidance Practice among primigavida Mothers in Urban Northwest Ethiopia. A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ayalew Tilksew , Asmare Eden
Published: November 2020

Background: Breast milk is the ideal and complete form of nutrition for infants colostrum contains all the necessary nutrients for infants’ growth and development and antibodies that can protect from many childhood illnesses. Understanding the extent of and barriers to colostrum avoidance in Ethiopia is important for learning how to best improve optimal breastfeeding. No single study has been conducted on primigavida mothers in the country. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the rate of colostrum avoidance practice and associated factors among primigavida mothers Method: A community- based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2016 among (n=398) randomly selected primigavida mothers in Bahir Dar city, northwest Ethiopia. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version25. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to measure the strength of association. Statistical significance was declared at P-value ≤0.05.Results: Out of 398 primipara mothers, 8.8% discarded colostrum. The most common reasons for discarding colostrum were; yellow and creamy (39.2%), bad for infant (35.2%), traditional/cultural reason (17.1%) and infant unable to feed (8.5%).Married mothers (OR=4.52, p<0.05), employed mothers (OR=3.46, p<0.05), mothers underwent normal delivery (OR=5.20, p<0.05) and mothers who initiated breastfeeding within 1 hr. (OR=2.79, p=0.05) were less likely to discard colostrum.Conclusion: The current study revealed that colostrum was discarded by 8.8 % of premiparious mothers. Primipara mothers who were married, unemployed, underwent normal delivery and initiated breastfeeding within one hour were less likely to discard colostrum. These results suggest that multi-sectorial and multi-disciplinary approaches are needed to increase optimal breastfeeding among premiparious mothers.
Disentangling Substance Use and Disorder: Urgency, But Not Sensation Seeking, Predicts Substance-Related Problems Above and Beyond The Degree of Substance Use.
Authors: Hildebrandt Malin , Dieterich Raoul , Endrass Tanja
Published: November 2020

Background: Substance use disorders are reliably associated with high impulsivity and sensation seeking. Importantly, both precede problematic substance use, implicating them as risk factors. Individuals with substance use disorders show variable degrees of substance use (combined quantity and frequency) and substance-related problems and differ in both aspects from healthy controls. Dimensional research has indicated differential associations of impulsivity-related traits as well as sensation seeking with the degree of substance use and substance-related problems. The current study aimed to clarify whether impulsivity-related traits and sensation seeking predict substance-related problems above and beyond the degree of substance use and are thus specifically linked to problems, the dimension that characterizes substance use disorders. Method: We assessed impulsivity-related traits and sensation seeking using self-report, as well as delay discounting, a behavioral indicator of impulsivity, in a sample of 258 substance-using adults. Results: Sensation seeking and impulsivity-related traits significantly predicted the degree of substance use, with sensation seeking explaining the largest portion of variance. In contrast, self-reported impulsivity, in particular when experiencing negative emotions (urgency), but not sensation seeking or delay discounting, predicted substance-related problems when controlling for the degree of substance use. Conclusions: This suggests that urgency, but not sensation seeking, may be specifically linked to substance-related problems and thus especially relevant for substance use disorders. Taken together, this study underlines the necessity to assess and control for the degree of substance use in risk factor research concerning substance-related problems. Thus, it may inform future research improving targeted prevention and therapy.
A Novel Data-driven Methodology for Influenza Outbreak Detection and Prediction
Authors: Du Lin , Pang Yan
Published: November 2020

Influenza is an infectious disease that leads to an estimated 5 million severe illness cases and 650,000 respiratory deaths worldwide each year. Early detection and prediction of influenza outbreaks are crucial to efficient resource planning to save patients’ lives and healthcare costs. This paper proposes a novel data-driven methodology for influenza outbreaks detection and prediction. The doctor’s diagnosis-based prescription dataset of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) from more than 3,000 clinics in Malaysia is used in this study because the prescription data are reliable and can be captured timely. A new Region Index (RI) of the influenza outbreak is proposed based on the prescription dataset. With the newly proposed RI metric, statistical and machine learning models are developed to detect and predict influenza outbreaks. Cross-validation is conducted to evaluate the prediction model performance. The proposed methods are also validated by real-world evidence. It is proved to be sensitive and accurate in influenza outbreak prediction with 80-90% accuracy, 70-80% recall, and 70-80% precision scores.
LncRNA GAS5 Participates in Pneumonia by Inhibiting Cells Apoptosis Through The Downregulation of MiR-155
Authors: Wang Xiaoping , Guo Ping , Tian Jiahui , Li Jie , Yan Na , Zhao Xin , Ma Yue
Published: November 2020

Background: LncRNA GAS5 and miR-155 are reported to play opposite roles in lung inflammatory responses. Lung inflammation participates in pneumonia, indicating the involvement of GAS5 and miR-155 pneumonia. We then analyzed the potential interaction between GAS5 and miR-155 in pneumoniaMethods: GAS5 and miR-155 expression in plasma samples from pneumonia patients and controls was studied by RT-qPCR. The role of GAS5 in miR-155 RNA gene methylation in human Bronchial Epithelial Cells (HBEpCs) was analyzed by methylation analysis. Flow cytometry was applied to analyze cell apoptosis.Results: GAS5 was downregulated in pneumonia and miR-155 was upregulated in pneumonia. GAS5 and miR-155 were inversely correlated. GAS5 overexpression decreased miR-155 expression in HBEpCs, while miR-155 overexpression showed no significant effects on GAS5 expression. In addition, GAS5 suppressed the apoptosis of HBEpCs induced by LPS and reduced the enhancing effect of miR-155 on cell apoptosis.Conclusions: GAS5 may participate in pneumonia by inhibiting cells apoptosis through the downregulation of miR-155.
Risk Factors and Modes for Implant Failure in the Modern Dual Mobility Implant. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis 
Authors: Pai Fu-Yuan , Ma Hsuan-Hsiao , Chou Te-Feng , Tsai Shang-Wen , Huang Tsan-Wen , Huang Kuo-Chin , Chen Cheng-Fong , Chen Wei-Ming
Published: November 2020

Background The aims of this meta-analysis were to: (1) validate the outcome of modern dual mobility (DM) designs in patients who had undergone primary and revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures and (2) to identify factors that affect the outcome.Methods We searched for studies that assessed the outcome of modern DM-THA in primary and revision procedures that have been conducted between January, 2000 to August, 2020 on PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Reviews and Embase. The pooled incidence of common failure modes and functional scores were evaluated in patients who have received: (1) primary THA, (2) revision THA for all causes or (3) for recurrent dislocation. A meta-regression analysis was performed for each parameter to determine the association with the outcome.Results A total of 120 studies (N= 30016 DM-THAs) were included for analysis. The mean follow-up duration was 47.3 months. The overall implant failure rate was 4.2% (primary: 2.3%, revision for all causes: 5.5%, recurrent dislocation: 6.0%). The most common failure modes were aseptic loosening (primary: 0.9%, revision for all causes: 2.2%, recurrent dislocation: 2.4%), septic loosening (primary:0.8%, revision for all causes: 2.3%, recurrent dislocation: 2.5%), extra-articular dislocation (primary:0.6%, revision for all causes:1.3%, recurrent dislocation:2.5%), intra-prosthetic dislocation (primary:0.8%, revision for all causes:1.0%, recurrent dislocation:1.6%) and periprosthetic fracture (primary:0.9%, revision for all causes:0.9%, recurrent dislocation:1.3%). The multi-regression analysis identified younger age (β=-0.04, 95% CI -0.07 – -0.02) and female patients (β=3.34, 95% CI 0.91–5.78) were correlated with higher implant failure rate. Age, gender, posterolateral approach and body mass index (BMI) were not risk factors for extra-articular or intra-prosthetic dislocation in this cohort. The overall Harris hip score and Merle d’Aubigné score were 84.87 and 16.36, respectively.Conclusion Modern dual-mobility designs provide satisfactory mid-term implant survival and clinical performance. Younger age and female patients might impact the outcome after DM-THA.
The Extent of Community Pharmacists’ Involvement in Detecting and Resolving Drug Related Problems (DRPs) in Prescriptions - A Cross Sectional Study in a Community Pharmacy Setting From Sri Lanka
Authors: Janani Tharmalinga Sharma Jegath , Risla Rafaideen , Shanika Lelwala Guruge Thushani , Samaranayake Nithushi Rajitha
Published: November 2020

Background: Drug Related Problems (DRPs) in prescriptions could harm patients.Purpose: To assess, the prevalence of DRPs in prescriptions, and the ability of community pharmacists to detect and correct DRPs in prescriptions dispensed in a selected community pharmacy. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in a selected community pharmacy in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where one researcher reviewed for DRPs in systematically selected prescriptions (N=400), and another directly observed the proportion of DRPs identified by community pharmacists in the same set of prescriptions. Actions taken by pharmacists on resolving DRPs were also documented. DRPs were classified according to a slightly modified version of Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe classification V8.01. Results: Among 1986 drugs, 1211 DRPs were identified by researchers, and 441 by community pharmacists (N=24). Drug selection (N=15), dose selection (N=817), duration of treatment (N=128), incomplete prescriptions (N=128), and in-house classification such as outdated prescriptions, missing unit of measurements, and ambiguous names of medicines that cannot be read by both community pharmacists and researcher (N=122) were the most common DRPs identified by researchers, of which only 1 (p<0.001), 394 (p<0.001), 13 (p=0.006), 5 (p<0.001), and 27 (p<0.001) respectively were identified by pharmacists. DRP identification by researcher and pharmacist did not significantly differ for inappropriate drug form (p=0.550). Among 441 DRPs identified by pharmacists, 406 were corrected by them (p=0.92). Most DRPs were self-resolved by pharmacists themselves (366/406) (p=0.90), while patients were also sent back to prescriber (14/406) (p=0.03) and refused to dispense drugs (9/406) (p=0.02).Conclusion: Among DRPs frequently observed in prescriptions in the community, pharmacists missed some, including incomplete prescriptions that had potential to harm. Pharmacist resolved most of the DRPs detected.
Differences between endolymphatic duct blockage and endolymphatic sac drainage surgery in the reversal of endolymphatic hydrops in patients with Meniere’s disease, preliminary results
Authors: Jiang Wenqi , Hu Junjiao , Peng Anquan , Wang Qin , Pan Xueying , Liu Wei , Zhang Zhiwen , Huang Chao , He Jun
Published: November 2020

To explore the differences between endolymphatic duct blockage (EDB) and endolymphatic sac drainage (EDD) surgery in the reversal of endolymphatic hydrops (EH) in patients with intractable Meniere’s disease (MD). A total of 19 MD patients receiving EDB (n=10) and EDD (n=9) treatment underwent gadoliniumenhanced inner ear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans prior to, 2 weeks after and at >12 months following surgery. In the EDB group, the second MRI revealed no changes in EH, whereas the third MRI revealed a reversal of vestibular EH in 3 patients and a downgrading of cochlear hydrops in 2 of these 3 patients, who presented with an improvement in their hearing and complete control of vertigo. In the EDD group, the second MRI showed a reversal of EH in 4 patients, and no changes in EH in the remaining 5 patients, whereas the third MRI showed that those 4 patients who presented with a reversal of EH at the second MRI stage remained unchanged, with the exception of one patient who experienced a recurrence of vestibular hydrops. All 4 patients exhibited a complete control of vertigo, although hearing improved in only 1 of them, worsened in 1 and remained unchanged in 2. The present study showed the reversal in EH was likely due to the delayed effect of surgery accompanied by an improvement in hearing in EDB group, whereas the reduction in the endolymph volume presented as an acute reversal of hydrops in EDD group without a causeeffect relationship with hearing function.
Clinical Outcomes and Predictors of Response for Adalimumab in Patients with Moderately to Severely Active Ulcerative Colitis: A KASID Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Shin Seung Yong , Park Soo Jung , Kim Young , Im Jong Pil , Kim Hyo Jong , Lee Kang-Moon , Kim Ji Won , Jung Sung-Ae , Lee Jun , Kang Sang-Bum , Shin Sung Jae , Kim Eun Sun , Kim You Sun , Kim Tae Oh , Kim Hyun-Soo , Park Dong Il , Kim Hyung Kil , Kim Eun Soo , Kim Young-Ho , Kim Do Hyun , Teng Dennis , Kim Jong-Hwa , Kim Wonyong , Choi Chang Hwan
Published: November 2020

A prospective, observational, multicenter study was conducted over 56 weeks in 146 adult patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) who received adalimumab (ADA) at 17 Korean academic hospitals. Clinical response rates were 52.1% and 37.7% and clinical remission rates were 24.0% and 21.9% at weeks 8 and 56, respectively. Mucosal healing rates were 39.0% and 30.1% at weeks 8 and 56, respectively. Prior use of anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (anti-TNF-α) did not affect clinical outcomes. The ADA drug level was significantly higher in patients with better outcomes at week 8. In patients with lower endoscopic activity, higher body mass index, and higher serum albumin levels at baseline, the clinical response rate was higher at week 8. In patients with lower Mayo scores and C-reactive protein levels, clinical responses, and mucosal healing at week 8, the clinical response rate was higher at week 56. Serious adverse drug reactions were identified in 2.7% of patients. ADA is effective and safe for induction and maintenance in Korean patients with UC, regardless of prior anti-TNF-α therapy. The ADA drug level is associated with the efficacy of induction therapy. Patients with better short-term outcomes were predictive of those with an improved long-term response
Perception of Ophthalmologists to COVID-19 Using Health Belief Model
Authors: Almazyad Enmar , Ahmad Abeer , Jomar Deema , Khandekar Rajiv , Al-Swailem Samar
Published: November 2020

Purpose:To assess ophthalmologists preparedness in such a critical period in the history of pandemics, a logical socio-psychological framework assessment using the health belief model (HBM) is essential to evaluate their risk perception, their willingness to actively participate in engaging in protective health behavior and acknowledge its benefits and their capability to perform adequate successful methods in limiting the spread of COVID-19 and overcome the barriers they might encounter while implementing such precautions.Methods:A cross-sectional study conducted in King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital using a questionnaire-based (HBM) was distributed to 135 ophthalmologists in the institute to evaluate their risk perception on COVID-19, and determine which components of the HBM contribute to preventive health behavior related to the COVID-19 infection.Results:The questionnaire had a reasonable response rate ( 79.3%, 107 ophthalmologists including; 48 consultants, 51 fellows, and 36 residents). The study demonstrated that this model is useful and mapped how several components were significantly correlated to actions. Most significantly, perceived susceptibility was the most important predictor of action. The second most important determinant of action was the perceived benefit.Conclusion:Pandemics such as COVID-19 are more likely to happen again in the future. Explicit attention to factors influencing motivation, such as threat perception to adopt appropriate health-related behavior to limit the spread of communicable diseases, is necessary. This study has successfully represented preparedness and risk behavior perception of ophthalmologists to the novel COVID-19 pandemic in one of the largest tertiary eye hospitals in the middle east using the health belief model.
Circulating Tumor Cells Predict Prognosis Following First-Generation EGFR-TKI Treatment in EGFR- and TP53-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: He Jing , Zhang Wei , Qian Huizhu , Liu Ping , Xu Jing , Gao Wen
Published: November 2020

Background: First-generation EGFR-TKIs have become the first-line standard treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR mutations. This study isolates and quantifies circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and evaluates patient prognosis before and after first-line treatment with EGFR-TKIs in advanced NSCLC with EGFR and TP53 mutation.Methods: Patients with advanced NSCLC with EGFR and TP53 mutation were treated with a first-generation EGFR-TKI using a standard daily dose. Continuous blood samples were collected at baseline (CTCs-d0) and 28 days (CTCs-d28), and the isolation by size of tumor cells (ISET) method was used to detect CTCs.Results: The CTCs results were divided into favorable (< 5 CTCs) and unfavorable (≥ 5 CTCs) groups. The median progression-free survival (PFS) of patients in the favorable group was significantly longer at baseline compared to those in the unfavorable group (15 vs 7.5 months; p = 0.0055). After 28 days of treatment with first-generation EGFR-TKI, the PFS of patients in the favorable group was 12.5 months, which was significantly longer than the median PFS of 7 months in the unfavorable group (p = 0.0003). After treatment, the PFS of patients with reduced CTCs was significantly better than those with no significant change in CTCs (9 months vs 6 months, p = 0.014). In univariate and multivariate analysis, patients with CTCs-d0 ≥ 5 and CTCs-d28 ≥ 5 had significantly lower PFS when compared to those with CTCs-d0 < 5 and CTCs-d28 < 5, respectively.Conclusion: This study confirmed for the first time that CTC count is closely correlated with prognosis in EGFR- and TP53-mutant advanced NSCLC following first-line treatment with first-generation EGFR-TKIs.
Internal Motor Tempo Contributes to the Determination of Preferred Music Tempo Regardless of Music Familiarity.
Authors: Hine Kyoko , Abe Koki , Kinzuka Yuya , Shehata Mohammad , Hatano Katsunobu , Matsui Toshie , Nakauchi Shigeki
Published: November 2020

Humans have long listened to music. However, it is still unclear why people prefer some types of music over others. To investigate how music preference is determined, previous studies have focused on preferred music tempo since tempo can essentially determine music preference. Such studies have reported that external music components as well as internal motor tempo determine tempo preference. Moreover, it has been suggested that familiarity with a piece of music affects the impact of external music components on tempo preference. However, the question of how the contributions of the internal motor tempo and external music components for tempo preference simultaneously change depending on familiarity has not been investigated. Moreover, the issue of which external music components contribute to tempo preference depending on familiarity has not been clarified. Here, we investigate how the preference for music tempo is determined by the internal motor tempo and external music components depending on familiarity with a piece of music. Twenty-three participants adjusted music tempos according to their preferences and rated their music familiarity. In addition, they engaged in finger tapping at their preferred tempo. Music components, such as typically performed tempo or the number of notes, were also analysed. Analysis of the collected data with multiple linear regressions showed that the preferred tapping tempo contributed to the preferred music tempo regardless of familiarity, whereas the contributions of some of the music components changed depending on familiarity. The typically performed tempo that might relate to the memory of a piece of music contributed to the estimation of the preferred music tempo for familiar music, and the number of notes or the pitch that might relate to perceived tempo contributed to the estimation of unfamiliar music. These results suggested that internal motor tempo is constantly involved in tempo preference regardless of music familiarity, whereas the contribution of external music components varies depending on whether a piece of music has been memorized.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Atrial Fibrillation Screening for Stroke Prevention in China: A Markov Model
Authors: Zhou Lihui , Cao Ye , Gao Bei , Lu Wenli , Wang Yuan
Published: November 2020

Objectives: To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of community-based Atrial fibrillation (AF) screening by 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) in Chinese healthcare setting.Methods: A Markov state transition model was used to simulate the costs and effects on a 55/65/75-year-old cohort under routine care and AF screening by 12-lead ECG. The circle length was 1 year, and people were simulated until 90 years old. The cost-effectiveness analysis was perform using a societal perspective. Transition probability, costs, and utility data were derived from open dataset and published literature. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to exam the uncertainty of the results. Results: Annual AF screening in 65/75-year-old cohort was highly cost-effective with the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY) 64147/49736 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Annual AF screening in 65/75-year-old cohort was associated with 535/492 prevented ischemic strokes and 174/163 more intracerebral hemorrhages, and the anticoagulation rate increased from the assumed 10% on routine care to 61.5%. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that these two strategies have 55% and 78% chances of being cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of 1× gross domestic product per capita of China in 2019, US $10635 QALY.Conclusion: Annual community-based screening of population aged 65 years and older in China is likely to be cost-effective at conventional willingness-to-pay thresholds to reduce the unnecessary burden of strokes.
A Highly Sensitive and Wide-Range Resonant Magnetic Micro-Sensor Based on A Buckled Micro-Beam
Authors: ALCHEIKH Nouha , Mbarek Sofiane , Younis Mohammad
Published: November 2020

We experimentally demonstrate a miniature highly sensitive wide-range resonant magnetic Lorentz-force micro-sensor. The concept is demonstrated based on the detection of the resonance frequency of an in-plane electrothermally heated straight resonator operated near the buckling point. The frequency shift is measured with optical sensing and the device is operating at atmospheric pressure. The magnetometer demonstrates a sensitivity (S) of 33.9/T, which is very high compared to the state of the art. In addition, the micro-sensor shows a good linearity in wide range and low power consumption around 0.2 mW. The above performances make the proposed micro-sensor promising for various low-cost magnetic applications.
Crucial Role of the YAP/TEAD Axis in Osteosarcoma Tumor Growth: Effects of YAP Inhibitors Verteporfin and CA3 on Tumor Growth in vivo
Authors: Morice Sarah , Mullard Mathilde , Brion Regis , Dupuy Maryne , Renault Sarah , Tesfaye Robel , Ory Benjamin , Redini Francoise , Verrecchia Franck
Published: November 2020

BackgroundOsteosarcoma is the first primary bone tumor in children and adolescents. Despite progress in the understanding of the biology of these tumors, survival rates have progressed very little in recent decades. In this context, although some studies suggested that disruption of the Hippo signaling pathway is associated with osteosarcoma progression, the molecular mechanisms by which YAP regulates primary tumor growth is not fully clarified. In addition, the validation of YAP as a therapeutic target through the use of inhibitors in a preclinical model must be demonstrated.MethodsThe identification of a YAP signature was carried out by RNAseq analysis from a cohort of patients. Survival rates were assessed by Kaplan-Meier assays. The role of TEAD in the control of osteosarcoma cell proliferation by YAP has been realized by various molecular and cellular biology approaches (RNAseq, PLA, immunoprecipitation, promoter/specific gene, proliferation, cell cycle assays) using overexpression of mutated forms of YAP able or unable to interact with TEAD. The role of TEAD in YAP regulation of primary tumor growth, and the effects of YAP inhibitors in vivo were realized using an orthotopic model of osteosarcoma. ResultsRNA-seq analysis and Kaplan-Meier assays identified a YAP signature in osteosarcoma patients and a correlation with patients outcome. Molecular and cellular analysis using overexpression of mutated forms of YAP able or unable to interact with TEAD, indicate that TEAD is crucial for YAP-driven cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth. In addition, in vivo experiments show that two YAP/TEAD inhibitors, verteporfin and CA3, reduce primary tumor growth. In this context, in vitro experiments demonstrate that these inhibitors decrease YAP expression, YAP/TEAD transcriptional activity and cell viability mainly by their ability to induce cell apoptosis.ConclusionWe thus demonstrate that the YAP/TEAD signaling axis is a central actor in mediating primary tumor growth of osteosarcoma, and that the use of YAP inhibitors may be a promising therapeutic strategy against osteosarcoma tumor growth.
The Effect of Oryza Sativa L. Subsp. Japonica Cultivar Yukihikari on The Immune System
Authors: Adachi Takahiro , Kotake Kunihiko , Kato Kiyoaki , Tanimoto Kosuke , Munekata Shinya
Published: November 2020

Oryza sativa L. subsp. japonica cultivar Yuhikikari is proposed to alleviate atopic dermatitis, although its mechanism is unclear. To clarify this issue, we evaluated the effect of Yukihikari on the immune system in vitro and in vivo by comparison with another Japanese cultivar Kirara397. A DNA microarray analysis of mouse spleen cells cultured with either Yukihikari or Kirara397 showed that Yukihikari-added spleen cells exhibited significantly reduced expression of pro-inflammatory genes. Furthermore, another transcriptome analysis of the cultivars by RNA sequencing showed a similar result to the DNA microarray analysis. Mice fed with Yukihikari had less germinal center B cells, fewer autoantibodies, and less weight than those fed with Kirara397. These results suggest that Yukihikari has immune-regulatory functions and accounts for its allergy-ameliorating effects.
Surface Mass Balance Modelling at Naradu Glacier, Western Himalaya
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Singh Shruti , Kumar Ramesh , Singh Atar , Singh Shaktiman , Randhawa Surjeet
Published: November 2020

In view of climate change, Himalayan glaciers are losing its mass. In present study we analyzed 7 year long field based data series of surface mass-balance measurements performed between 2011/12 and 2017/18 at Naradu glacier, western Himalaya. The average specific mass balance for the studied period was 0.83 m w.e. with a highest melting of 1.15 m w.e. The analysis of topographic features showed that south and southeast aspect along with the presence of debris cover area and the slope between 18 to 36 degree are the major factors which causes highest melting from a particular zone. For better understanding of SMB variability and its causes, multiple linear regression analyses (MLRA) was performed by taking temperature and precipitation as predictors. The temperature and precipitation records were taken from NASA GIOVANNI website. The MLRA shows that 71% of the variance of observed SMB can be explained by temperature and precipitation. The MLRA shows the importance of summer half-year temperature. This variable alone explains the 64% variance of observed SMB. The seasonal period analysis showed that with two predictor variables most of the SMB variability is described by summer temperature and winter precipitation. All monthly combinations show that SMB variance is best described by June temperature and September precipitation.
WITHDRAWN: The analysis of disruption management due to COVID-19 using business continuity management and house of risk on maritime operations
Authors: Budiyanto Eko Hariyadi , Gurning Raja Oloan Saut , Pitana Trika , Novalsyah Hafidz , Yudha Dwi , Mulyono  , Akbari Dany Rahmat , Ardarifa Daffa Amar , Fadilah Muhammad Arvin
Published: November 2020

The high frequency of shipping in Indonesia is directly proportional to the increase of port activities. Along with the activities, the risk of disruption that might occur also increase. The impact of a disruption can be detrimental to many parties such as crew, company, ship, cargo carried, and environment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ports are encouraged to develop a plan that could minimize the disruption of the role that port play in keeping trade flowing and vital supplies moving. The possible impact from COVID-19 related disruption urges companies to apply the Business Continuity Management (BCM) system to deal with any potential disruption that might occur. This paper tries to identify and rank each potential disruption from COVID-19 based on severity & occurrence, House of Risk method was used with the aid of questionnaires and interviews. Furthermore, business impact analysis is conducted in order to analyse the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and how BCM helps to minimize the potential loss. Business continuity value also measured through analysing container throughput growth data.
Comprehensive Clinical Risk Management in a University Hospital: Implementation, Results and Outcome
Authors: Buchberger Wolfgang , Schmied Marten , Sarbu Anca , Siebert Uwe
Published: November 2020

BackgroundDespite the increasing awareness of the need to implement systematic methods to reduce treatment-related risks, there are only few studies on comprehensive clinical risk management (CRM) in hospitals. The aim of this study was to report on the implementation, results and outcome of a CRM system at a university hospital in Tyrol, Austria.MethodsCRM was rolled out in 35 departments of the hospital over a period of nine years and included the training of interdisciplinary risk management teams at each department, external and internal risk audits and the implementation of a critical incident reporting system (CIRS). The results of the risk audits were retrospectively reviewed and the risks identified were analyzed according to the type, severity and degree of implementation of risk management measures. Other key figures of CRM were obtained from the annual risk reports. The development of liability cases in the individual departments and in the entire hospital was used as an outcome measurement.ResultsOf the 1,104 risks identified during the risk audits, 620 (56.2%) were related to the organization of clinical care, 235 (21.3%) to documentation, 169 (15.3%) to patient treatment and 80 (7.2%) to patient information and consent. The highest proportion of serious risks was found in the category organization (22.7%), and the lowest in the category documentation (13.6%). The degree of implementation of prevention measures after 12 to 18 months was between 69.7% and 83.4% depending on the risk category. The CIRS identified between 241 and 370 critical incidents per year, for which in 79.5% to 83% preventive measures were implemented within twelve months.Compared with the years prior to the introduction of CRM, an average annual reduction of treatment-related harms by 52.9% (95% confidence interval, 44.2% to 61.6%) was observed at the end of the implementation phase. The mean number of harms per department and year dropped from 7.04 to 3.45 (p<0.001). ConclusionsThe results of this project demonstrate the effectiveness of systematic CRM in detecting treatment-related risks and in reducing harm to patients.
Poverty and Blind Religious Faith Preclude Attendance at Breast Cancer Screening in Mexico
Authors: Cerda-Flores Ricardo , Castellanos Enrique , Ancer-Arellano Jesús , Ristiniemi Jari , Márquez Marcela
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAttendance to mammography screening is low in Mexico with late breast cancer (BCa) intervention. This study investigates reasons for low attendance in screening programs. Socioeconomic and cultural factors were investigated. The present national BCa screening programs are discussed. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study involving 1066 women in the Monterrey Metropolitan area. Women aged 40-79 years old with low-income/middle-income completed a questionnaire on socioeconomic and cultural factors. A descriptive and multivariate analysis was done.ResultsIn total, 27 percent had never attended mammography and about 61 percent had only done a mammography during the last 2 years. Sixty-seven percent of the women went to the doctor only when they "felt sick". The two principal reasons for not attending were financial (38%) and fatalism related to religious faith (80%). ConclusionsThis study, is the first to quantify both the socioeconomic and cultural factors in women in Mexico. It analyzes the relationship of the factors precluding BCa screening, seeking care for breast symptoms and subsequent treatment. LI and MI women belong to different socioeconomic and cultural subgroups in MMa. Affordable National state of the art prevention programs are needed, considering a heterogeneous population where the majority have low income/are poor. Tailored information on the importance of mammography attendance is needed where the Catholic Church could help to deliver information. Subsequent BCa treatment should be based on current guidelines. Trial registration﻿The Protocol was approved by the Ethic Committee, Hospital Metropolitano “Dr. Bernardo Sepulveda” Monterrey, Mexico, 5 October 2012.
A shorter equilibration period in the VitTrans in-straw bovine embryo vitrification method improves post-warming outcomes
Authors: Martínez-Rodero Iris , García-Martínez Tania , Ordóñez-León Erika Alina , Vendrell-Flotats Meritxell , Olegario-Hidalgo Carlos , Esmoris Joseba , Mendebil Xabier , Azcarate Sabino , López-Béjar Manel , Yeste Marc , Mogas Teresa
Published: November 2020

Background

VitTrans is a device that enables the vitrification and warming/dilution of in vitro produced bovine embryos followed by their direct transfer to recipient females in field conditions. This study sought to improve the VitTrans method by comparing two equilibration times: short (SE: 3 min) and long (LE: 12 min). Outcome measures recorded in vitrified D7 and D8 expanded blastocysts were survival and hatching rates, differential cell counts, apoptosis rate and gene expression.
Results

While survival rates at 3 h and 24 h post-warming were reduced (P < 0.05) after vitrification, hatching rates of D7 embryos vitrified after SE were similar to those obtained in fresh non-vitrified blastocysts. Hatching rates of vitrified D8 blastocysts were lower (P < 0.05) than of fresh controls, regardless of treatment. Total cell counts, and inner cell mass and trophectoderm cell numbers were similar in hatched blastocysts derived from D7 blastocysts vitrified after SE and fresh blastocysts, while vitrified D8 blastocysts yielded lower values, regardless of treatment. The rate of apoptotic cells was significantly higher in both treatment groups when compared to fresh controls, although apoptosis rates were lower using the SE than LE protocol. No differences emerged in expression of the genes BAX, AQP3, CX43 and IFNτ between blastocysts vitrified after SE or LE, whereas a significantly higher abundance of BCL2L1 and SOD1 transcripts was observed in blastocysts vitrified after SE compared to LE.
Conclusions

The VitTrans device combined with a shorter exposure to the equilibration medium improves vitrification/warming outcomes facilitating the direct transfer of vitrified embryos under field conditions.
Concerns and attitudes of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chatzinikolaou Matina-Lydia , Zacharopoulou Eirini , Kokkotis Georgios , Palatianou Maria , Vogli Stamatina , Bamias Giorgos , Tzouvala Maria
Published: November 2020

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has changed inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) care. The use of telemedicine was quickly adopted, however the impact of COVID-19 on IBD patients’ feelings and sense of security for their health has not been extensively evaluated.Aims: Our aim was to assess patients’ views and concerns regarding their IBD condition, compliance with treatment and preventive measures, accessibility to health services and sources of information they used during the coronavirus pandemic.Methods: A questionnaire-based survey of patients with IBD (n=237) was conducted at a University and an NHS GI Units.Results: Greek patients with IBD expressed high levels of fear of coronavirus infection, with more than 50% being afraid of dying as a result of COVID-19. Seven out of ten participants felt that their IBD medications increased risk of infection and this fear was significantly higher in patients on immunosuppression. Only 2% of patients discontinued treatment on their own, all of whom were receiving immunosuppression. More than 90% of participants reported staying home and washing their hands. Three quarters of patients had access to a doctor when needed and almost 50% used the electronic paperless prescription system. Participants were satisfied with the information they received regarding COVID-19. The main sources of information were media, internet and social networks, with only one third seeking guidance from their gastroenterologist. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound, negative effect on IBD patients’ lives. COVID-19-related fears need to be actively addressed, particularly in IBD patients on immunosuppression, and relevant information should be continuously provided.
Presence and Persistence of Amblyomma Hebraeum Augments the Burden of Heartwater in the Southern District of Botswana
Authors: Ramotadima Isabella , Hyera Joseph , Lebani Kebaneilwe
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUNDHeartwater is a tick-borne, haemoparasitic disease that has the potential to limit the growth of agro-businesses in Botswana. This threat to national food security is attributed to low production and mortality of livestock in subsistence farming of small stock than in commercial farms. This study gives a view of the epidemiological burden of heartwater in Botswana. METHODSFeeding ticks on livestock kept in four Southern sub-districts of Botswana were identified through morphological and molecular analysis. Farmers were interviewed on the management of the heartwater burden within their respective sub-districts. Veterinary clinical case reports were collected to assess the frequency of cases across the Southern District of Botswana. RESULTSOutcomes of the study revealed; a wide distribution of Amblyomma hebraeum in all four studied sub-districts, gradual annual increase in heartwater cases in Moshupa sub-district and indication of increased impact on indigenous caprine species despite the effort to control vectors by 63% of interviewed farmers. CONCLUSIONAmblyomma hebraeum, the principal vector of Ehrlichia ruminantium in Southern Africa is widely distributed in the Southern District of Botswana and thus poses a challenge to livestock productivity in this district and, perhaps, elsewhere in the country where the tick infests livestock. There is therefore a need to re-examine the existing tick control interventions with an intention to reduce the heartwater disease burden particularly in sheep and goats.
A New Expression Model of Classical Electromagnetic Theory at the Micro Level
Authors: Fan Jack
Published: November 2020

Because Maxwell's classical electromagnetic theory is a macro-electromagnetic theory based on the cognition of the 19th century and before the 19th century, and because the physics of the 20th century has gained new cognition in the microscopic field, considering that it is now the 21st century. Therefore, this article attempts to establish a set of micro-expression theory of Maxwell's macro-electromagnetism theory based on the new cognitions obtained at the micro-level since the 20th century, in order to promote the further development of Maxwell's classical electromagnetism theory in accordance with the cognition of the times.
Phosphate fertilizers increase CO2 assimilation and yield of soybean plants in a shaded environment
Authors: Zhao Wei , Zheng Bin , Ren Ting-Hu , Zhang Xing-Hui , Ning Tang-Yuan , Li Geng
Published: November 2020

To study how phosphate fertilizer regulates the photosynthetic of summer soybeans in low light environment, this study used Qihuang 34 as the test variety, two light treatments[ambient sunlight (L1) during the whole growth period and 40% shade (L2) from 40 days after sowing to 24 days after flowering] with two phosphate fertilizer treatments including non-phosphate fertilizer application (P0), conventional phosphate fertilizer application (P1) in each light treatment was set up to measure the gas exchange, chlorophyll a fluorescence differences of photosynthetic performance as well as the yield and its components in Qihuang 34. The results showed that phosphorus significantly increased chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, and grain yield in shading treatment. The yield of soybean was significantly reduced after shading treatment, which was 29.9%, but compared with L2P0, L2P1 treatment yield increased by 36.7%, which was significantly higher than the 27.1% under L1 treatment. The photosynthetic rate under saturated light (Asat) under L2 treatment decreased by 31.5% and 15.6% in R1 and R3 periods, respectively, and average increased by 27.4% and 45% after phosphorus application under two light condition. Furthermore, photosynthetic measurements demonstrated a more significant increase in the maximum efficiency of CO2 fixation, maximum rates of RUBP-carboxylation (Vcmax) in phosphorous treatment under shading conditions. Moreover, further analysis of OJIP curves revealed that phosphate fertilizer significantly improved the electron transfer and light energy absorption performance of the PSII reaction center in shading. The above results demonstrate that phosphate fertilizer contributes to light energy utilization efficiency, increase the low light utilization efficiency by improving PSII performance, promote RUBP regeneration, ensure the source of carboxylates substrates, and coordinate the balance of the photochemical reaction and the Calvin cycle, then alleviate the reduction of photosynthetic efficiency under shading, increase the rate of dry matter accumulation, and greatly increase yield.