bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inverse Analysis Method on the Performance Evaluation of Geosynthetic Reinforcements in Highway Pavement on Expansive Soils
Authors: Sarker Debojit , Wang Jay
Published: January 2021

Sometimes a pavement deflects only because of seasonal volume change of expansive soils in the pavement subgrade. Engineering practitioners expect an implementable and straightforward analysis method for a geosynthetic-reinforced pavement subjected to the swelling/shrinkage issue of expansive clayey subgrade, in an effort to find the bending moment, shear force and tension force distributions through the reinforced pavement, which are induced from the volumetric changes of subgrade soils. The virtual load method (VLM) was proposed in the past following the Timoshenko beam theory to analyze geosynthetic-reinforced pavement on expansive soils. In the VLM, the unknown virtual distributed load was obtained in the way by applying the inverse theory for the identification of material parameters of the pavement-foundation system. It was seen that the selection of the number of material parameters to obtain virtual load significantly affects the accuracy of the structural properties of the pavement and tensile properties of the geosynthetics if the linear least square method is used. In this paper, a unique numerical scheme was proposed in the hopes of solving the issue. After a forward problem was solved numerically, the Timoshenko beam deflection was taken as a start-up for the inverse problem to back analyze the load applied to the pavement. Solutions from forward/backward examples have explicitly shown the accuracy achieved related to the bending moment in the pavement and tension in the geosynthetic reinforcements. The proposed methodology can be applied for an in-depth understanding of the geosynthetic function for the mitigation of longitudinal cracks on pavements caused by heave/shrinkage of expansive soils.
Immunoinformatics Prediction of an Epitope Based Peptide Vaccine for Neisseria Gonorrhea Dihydrolipoamide Acetyltransferase Protein
Authors: Elhag Mustafa , Osama Sati Anfal , H. Abdelmoneim Abdelrahman , Mohammed Saadaldin Moaaz , Salah Taha Taha , A.Hassan Mohammed
Published: January 2021

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Gonorrhea is associated with serious morbidity and mortality rates in the world considering the multiple virulence factors possessed. The disease is manifested as salpingitis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and bacteremia and is controlled by macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, T cells, epithelial cells and cytokines. Dihydroliponamide acetyltransferase, a component of the mitochondrial pyruvate complex can be used as immunogenic target. Recent changes in the strain allowed the bacteria to acquire resistance against antibiotics.Vaccination remains an alternative to prevention against the disease. This study predicts an effective epitope-based vaccine against dihydrolipoamide acetyltransferase of Neisseria Gonorrhea using immunoinformatics approaches. Sequences retrieved from NCBI were passed on several prediction tests to analyze for possible B-cell, T-cell MHC class I epitopes and class II. Two epitopes showed high binding affinity for B-cells, while thirteen epitopes showed high binding affinity for MHCI and forty-five for MHCII. A population coverage of 100% for combined MHC I and II dictates the huge number of individuals who will benefit from formulating the vaccine. We recommend invivo and invitro studies to prove our prediction results.
Nanotechnology for Biosensors: A Review
Authors: Banerjee Aishwaryadev , Maity Swagata , Mastrangelo Carlos H.
Published: January 2021

Biosensors are essential tools which have been traditionally used to monitor environmental pollution, detect the presence of toxic elements and biohazardous bacteria or virus in organic matter and biomolecules for clinical diagnostics. In the last couple of decades, the scientific community has witnessed their widespread application in the fields of military, health care, industrial process control, environmental monitoring, food-quality control, and microbiology. Biosensor technology has greatly evolved from the in vitro studies based on the biosensing ability of organic beings to the highly sophisticated world of nanofabrication enabled miniaturized biosensors. The incorporation of nanotechnology in the vast field of biosensing has led to the development of novel sensors and sensing mechanisms, as well as an increase in the sensitivity and performance of the existing biosensors. Additionally, the nanoscale dimension further assists the development of sensors for rapid and simple detection in vivo as well as the ability to probe single-biomolecules and obtain critical information for their detection and analysis. However, the major drawbacks of this include, but are not limited to potential toxicities associated with the unavoidable release of nanoparticles into the environment, miniaturization induced unreliability, lack of automation, and difficulty of integrating the nanostructured-based biosensors as well as unreliable transduction signals from these devices. Although the field of biosensors is vast, we intend to explore various nanotechnology enabled biosensors as part of this review article and provide a brief description of their fundamental working principles and potential applications.
The Impact of Corona Pandemic on Consumer’s Food Consumption – Vulnerability of Households with Children and Income Losses
Authors: Profeta Adriano , Smetana Sergiy , Siddiqui Shahida , Hossaini Mahdi , Heinz Volker
Published: January 2021

This study clearly shows that the corona pandemic has a significant impact on consumers’ eating habits. More food is eaten overall, and more convenience products such as ready meals and canned food with a longer shelf life are purchased. The consumption of alcohol and confectionery has also increased. In return, the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables has declined. It becomes clear that families who are financially affected by the pandemic represent a vulnerable group. With the increasing duration of the pandemic, repeated lockdowns, corona-related closings of schools and kindergartens, health consequences are to be expected in the medium to long term, especially for this population group.
A Comparison between the Naïve Bayes and the C5.0 Decision Tree Algorithms for Predicting the Advice of the Student Enrollment Applications
Authors: Kiffen Yannick , Lelli Francesco , Feyli Omid
Published: January 2021

In this preprint, we introduce a dataset containing students enrolment applications combined with the related result of their filing procedure. The dataset contains 73 variable. Student candidates, at the time of applying for study, fill a web form for filing the procedure. A committee at Tilburg University review each single application and decide if the student is admissible or not. This dataset is suitable for algorithmic studies and has been used in a comparison between the Naïve Bayes and the C5.0 Decision Tree Algorithms. They have been used for predicting the decision of the committee in admitting candidates at various bachelor programs. Our analysis shows that, in this particular case, a combination of the approaches outperform a both of them in term of precision and recall.
Relevansi Nilai Informasi Akuntansi Pada Laba, Nilai Buku, dan Arus Kas Operasi: Kasus di Perbankan Indonesia
Authors: Hadinata Sofyan
Published: January 2021

This study aims to examine the relationship between capital markets and accounting information in Indonesian banking. Specifically, this study examines the value relevance of earnings, book values, and operating cash flows. Using a sample of banks listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2014 to 2018, this study accommodates the documented accounting information in the context of developing markets using stock prices of four months after year-end as a dependent variable. Sampling using a purposive sampling method. This research obtained 35 companies used in this study sample. This study uses panel data regression techniques with the Generalized Least Square (GLS) analysis approach. This study indicates that earnings and book value statistically have a positive effect on stock prices. Meanwhile, operating cash flow has no statistical effect on stock prices. This study also shows that earnings more value-relevant than other variables.
Determinasi dan Respon Stakeholders Terhadap Kinerja Keuangan Pemerintah Daerah
Authors: Hanun Nur Ravita , Hermawan Sigit , Prapanca Detak
Published: January 2021

This study deals with local original income as a determinant of district/city finances in the Gerbang Kertosusilo (Gresik, Bangkalan, Mojokerto, Surabaya, Sidoarjo dan Lamongan) period 2014–2018 and know the responses of the Stakeholders. The research method used is the mix method research. The hypothesis in this study is to explain the influence of tax ratios, retribution ratios, BUMD profit ratios, and other valid income ratios simultaneously, partially and dominantly on the financial performance of regencies or cities in the Gerbang Kertosusilo. To test this hypothesis data analysis tools are used in the form of multiple linear regression. Besides this research also uses a qualitative approach where triangulation techniques will test data collected from interviews, observations and documentation. The results of this study, all variables significantly influence regional financial performance. The stakeholders also justified this. The Financial Performance of Regional Governments reflects the ability of regional heads in managing and maintaining their regions.
Analisis Penerapan PSAK 109 Pada Badan Amil Zakat Nasional Kota Tual
Authors: Ohoirenan Moh Husain , Fithria Annisa
Published: January 2021

This study aims to analyze the procedures of preparing financial statements at BAZNAS Kota Tual and the implementation of PSAK 109 on the financial statements of BAZNAS Kota Tual. This study uses a qualitative method by collecting the data through financial reports, literature, interview, and documentation. The results show that the financial reporting of zakat, infaq/sadaqah at BAZNAS Kota Tual has not fully implemented PSAK 109. Based on PSAK 109, the financial reporting of zakat, infaq/sadaqah uses five elements, i.e. initial recognition, measurement, distribution, presentation, and disclosure. However, practically, BAZNAS Kota Tual only implements a few elements, namely initial recognition and distribution. BAZNAS Kota Tual has not implemented measurement, presentation, and disclosure. Moreover, BAZNAS Kota Tual does not make complete financial reports, such as the balance sheets, reports on changes in funds, reports on changes in assets under management, cash flow reports, and notes on financial reports, but only make a simple report, namely the report on the collection and distribution of zakat, infaq/sadaqah.
Islamophobia and Religious Intolerance: Threats to Global Peace and Harmonious Co-Existence
Authors: Dauda Kazeem Oluwaseun
Published: January 2021

Recent events show that there are heightened fear, hostilities, prejudices and discriminations associated with religion in virtually every part of the world. It becomes almost impossible to watch news daily without scenes of religious intolerance and violence with dire consequences for societal peace. This paper examines the trends, causes and implications of Islamophobia and religious intolerance for global peace and harmonious co-existence. It relies on content analysis of secondary sources of data. It notes that fear and hatred associated with Islām and persecution of Muslims is the fallout of religious intolerance as reflected in most melee and verbal attacks, anti-Muslim hatred, racism, xenophobia, anti-Sharī'ah policies, high-profile terrorist attacks, and growing trends of far-right or right-wing extremists. It reveals that Islamophobia and religious intolerance have led to proliferation of attacks on Muslims, incessant loss of lives, wanton destruction of property, violation of Muslims’ fundamental rights and freedom, rising fear of insecurity, and distrust between Muslims and non-Muslims. The paper concludes that escalating Islamophobic attacks and religious intolerance globally had constituted a serious threat to world peace and harmonious co-existence. Relevant resolutions in curbing rising trends of Islamophobia and religious intolerance are suggested.

 
Towards a Deliberative Conflict Resolution? A Reflection on State Inclusive Response to Sunni-Shi’a Tension in Indonesia’s Democracy
Authors: Amal M Khusna
Published: January 2021

Most studies on the Sunni-Shi'a conflict concentrates on the failed peaceful resolution due to the state’s discrimination against the minority religious groups in Indonesia. However, these studies overlook other spectrums of the progressive role of the state agencies in religious conflict resolution. This paper examines the state engagement in the peaceful resolution of religious conflict through an inclusive policy-making. A case study of the Sunni-Shi’a conflict 2016 in Bondowoso (East Java) showed that the local government is committed and has an inclusive policy to protect or strengthen civil rights, especially for groups that are crucial to the quality of democracy. Based on Carson and Hartz-Karp’s theoretical framework, this paper shows that the local government policy has represented a model of limited deliberative conflict resolution. Although this policy was a product of public openness and willingness to hold a discussion, negotiation, and to compromise, the decision made was still exclusionary to the involvement of the Shi’a minority group.
ELECTROCARDIOGRAM OF PIGS (Sus scrofa) ANESTHETIZED WITH A COMBINATION OF KETAMINE-MEDETOMIDINE AND KETAMINE-ACEPROMAZINE
Authors: Safitri Jessica Anggun , Gunanti Gunanti , Noviana Deni , Widhyari Sus Derthi
Published: January 2021

This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of the combination of ketamine-medetomidine and ketamine-acepromazine anesthesia on pig electrocardiogram (ECG) images. The study was conducted to see the ECG Leads II in six pigs which were divided into two groups. Group I (K1) was given a combination of ketamine (10 mg/kg BW) and medetomidine (0.08 mg/kg BW), while Group II (K2) was given a combination of ketamine (22 mg/kg BW) and acepromazine (1.1 mg/kg BW) intramuscularly. ECG recording was performed after the pigs were anesthetized at the surgical stage by attaching the recording electrodes to the front wall of the chest, front left and right ankles, and back right and left back ankles. The ECG recording used 1 voltage (1 cm = 1mV) with a speed of 25 mm/sec. The parameters observed were heart rate frequency, heart rhythm, P duration, P amplitude, PR interval, R amplitude, QRS interval, QT interval, ST segment, T wave, and Mean Electrical Axis (MEA). Data obtained from this study were analyzed by T-test. The results showed that K1 had an average heart rate of 100 x/minute, regular heart rhythm, P duration of 0.07 sec, P amplitude of 0.27 mV, PR interval of 0.17 sec, R amplitude of 0.75 mV, QRS interval of 0.05 sec, QT interval of 0.20 sec, ST segment of 0.17sec, T wave of 0.17 mV, and MEA of 83.60°; meanwhile, K2 had an average heart rate of 122 x/minute, regular heart rhythm, P duration of 0.06 mm/sec, P amplitude of 0.23 mV, PR interval of 0.14 sec, R amplitude of 0.80 mV, QRS interval of 0.04 sec, QT interval of 0.16 sec, ST segment of 0.14 sec, T wave of 0.12 mV, and MEA of 68.60. The ketamine-medetomidine combination produced good quality of anesthetics for the cardiovascular system.
Perceived barriers to goals of care discussions in the emergency department: a multi-center analysis of hospitalist physicians
Authors: Zannella Vanessa , Quinn Kieran , Vaillancourt Samuel , Ailon Jonathan , Mcgowan Melissa , Argintaru Niran
Published: January 2021

Background: Patients who present to hospital require clarification and confirmation of their goals of care in the emergency department to align treatment recommendations with their stated goals. The potential barriers to having these discussions in this setting are not well described. The objective of this study was to identify the most substantial barriers to conducting goals of care discussions in the emergency department as reported by hospitalist physicians who are often the first physician that a patient encounters during their admission to hospital. Design: A team of physicians from Palliative Care, Hospitalist Medicine and Emergency Medicine modified an existing self-reported survey that explored three domains of potential barriers to goals of care discussions: patient-related factors, environmental and resource-related factors, and factors related to physician responsibility and training. Across these domains, hospitalist physicians from 20 hospitals in the Greater Toronto Area in Ontario, Canada were invited to respond on a likert-scale to 17 questions that explored potential barriers to goals of care discussions between January 2018 and April 2019. Responses were rank-ordered by the magnitude of the differences between those that agreed with a statement and those that disagreed. Key Results: A total of 181 physicians from 17 institutions were included in the study (110 staff physicians, 71 resident physicians, response rate 36%). Ninety-five percent of physicians reported engaging in goals of care discussions at least several times per month. The most substantial barriers to goals of care discussions in the emergency department reported by hospitalists were: difficulty communicating with outpatient healthcare providers, the emergency department environment, and the lack of prognostic tools for patients with terminal noncancer illness. Conclusions: Several modifiable barriers to conducting goals of care discussions in the emergency department exist, which were primarily related to difficulty with communication, prognosis and a challenging care environment.
Anti-Amnesic and Neuroprotective Effects of Ziziphus Jujuba Aqueous Extract on Scopolamine-Induced Cognitive Impairments in Rats
Authors: Djeuzong Etienne , Kandeda Antoine , Djiogue Sefirin , Nguedia Danide , Lewale Stephanie , Ngueguim Florence , Kouamouo Jonas , Dimo Theophile
Published: January 2021

Background: Alzheimer's disease is a neurological condition that affects more than 44 million people worldwide. The available treatments target the symptoms rather than underlying causes. Ziziphus jujuba (Rhamnaceae) is used in traditional Cameroonian medicine to treat many disorders including memory impairments. The study aimed to evaluate the anti-amnesic and neuroprotective effects of Z. jujuba aqueous extract on scopolamine-induced memory disorders in rats. Methods: Learning and memory impairments were induced in rats by scopolamine (1mg/kg, i.p.) for 15 days. Rats that developed cognitive impairments were divided as follows: two positive control groups received piracetam (200 mg/kg, p.o.) or tacrine (1 mg/kg, p.o.); three test groups received the extract (29, 57, and 114 mg/kg, p.o., respectively) daily for 15 days. At the end of treatments, memory impairments were assessed by Morris water maze and Y-maze tests. Thereafter, animals were sacrificed and some biochemical parameters (oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis) were estimated in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.Results: Z. jujuba decreased the time to reach the platform and increased the time in the target quadrant. However, it failed to affect spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze. Furthermore, the extract reversed scopolamine-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. This was confirmed with the prevention of neuronal loss in the hippocampus or prefrontal cortex. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Z. jujuba extract possesses ant-amnesic and neuroprotective effects. It seems that these effects are mediated in part by antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities. This, therefore, justify its use to treat dementia and psychiatric disorders in Cameroon’s folk medicine.
Galectin-3 In Septic Acute Kidney Injury: A Translational Study
Authors: Sun Haibing , Jiang Huiping , Eliaz Amity , Kellum John A. , Peng Zhiyong , Eliaz Isaac
Published: January 2021

Background Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a pleiotropic glycan-binding protein shown to be involved in sepsis and acute kidney injury (AKI). However, its role has never been elucidated in sepsis-associated AKI (S-AKI). We aimed to explore Gal-3’s role and its potential utility as a therapeutic target in S-AKI. MethodsIn 57 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with sepsis, serum Gal-3 was examined as a predictor of ICU mortality and AKI. In a rat model of S-AKI induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), 7-day mortality and serum Gal-3, IL-6, and creatinine were examined at baseline, 2, 8, and 24 hours (h) post-CLP. Two experimental groups received the Gal-3 inhibitor modified citrus pectin (P-MCP) at 400 mg/kg/day and 1200 mg/kg/day, while the control group received water only (n = 18 in each group). ResultsAmong 57 patients, 27 developed AKI and 8 died in the ICU. Serum Gal-3 was an independent predictor of AKI (OR = 1.2 [95% CI 1.1-1.4], p = 0.01) and ICU mortality (OR = 1.4 [95% CI 1.1-2.2], p = 0.04) before and after controlling for age, AKI, and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE II) score. In the CLP rat experiment, serum Gal-3 peaked earlier than Interleukin-6 (IL-6). Serum Gal-3 was significantly lower in both P-MCP-treated groups compared to control at 2 h post-CLP (400 mg: p = 0.003; 1200 mg: p = 0.002), and IL-6 was significantly lower in both P-MCP-treated groups at all time points with a maximum difference at 24 h post-CLP (400 mg: p = 0.015; 1200 mg: p = 0.02). In the Gal-3 inhibitor groups, 7-day mortality was significantly reduced from 61% in the control group to 28% (400 mg P-MCP: p = 0.03) and 22% (1200 mg P-MCP: p = 0.001). Rates of AKI per RIFLE criteria were significantly reduced from 89% in the control group to 44% in both P-MCP-treated groups (400mg: p = 0.007; 1200mg: p = 0.007). ConclusionsThis translational study demonstrates the importance of Gal-3 in the pathogenesis of S-AKI, and its potential utility as a therapeutic target.
Comparison of the Modified Smith-Petersen (S-P) and Ilioinguinal (I-I) Approaches for Periacetabular Osteotomy in Adult Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: A Retrospective study
Authors: Luo Rui , Li Guomin , Li Bo , Hu Ruyin , Li Yankun
Published: January 2021

BackgroundAdult developmental dysplasia of the hip is an untreated congenital hip dysplasia that results in adult hip pain. One of the usual and effective methods for the treatment of this condition is periacetabular osteotomy. However, which approach is better between the modified S-P and the I-I approaches is still unclear and controversial.Method and materialsWe retrospectively assessed our experience with the modified S-P and the I-I approaches by inquiring and evaluating intraoperative blood loss, postoperative radiographic material, postoperative function of the hip and related complications from July 2014 to January 2019.ResultsA total of 61 patients with adult developmental dysplasia of the hip were enrolled, and 33 patients were divided into a modified S-P group and 28 patients were divided into I-I group. The operation time and blood loss of group I-I were higher than that of group modified S-P. Other clinical and radiographic indexes showed no statistical significance between group the modified S-P and I-I groups.ConclusionThere is no significant difference in the improvement of the function of the hip at the post-operation stage, but group I-I may require more operation time and blood loss at the intra-operation stage.
Buprenorphine Alters Microglia and Astrocytes Acutely Following Diffuse Traumatic Brain Injury.
Authors: Ryu Jane , Stone Phillip , Lee Sabrina , Payne Brighton , Gorse Karen , Lafrenaye Audrey
Published: January 2021

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common phenomenon, accounting for significant cost and adverse health effects. While there is information about focal pathologies following TBI, knowledge of more diffuse processes is lacking, particularly regarding how analgesics affect this pathology. As buprenorphine is the most commonly used analgesic in experimental TBI models, this study investigated the acute effects of the opioid analgesic buprenorphine (Bup-SR-Lab) on diffuse neuronal/glial pathology, neuroinflammation, cell damage, and systemic physiology. Methods: We utilized a model of central fluid percussion injury (CFPI) in adult male rats treated with a single subcutaneous bolus of Bup-SR-Lab or saline 15min post-injury. Microscopic assessments were performed at 1 day post-injury. Cell impermeable dextran was infused intraventricularly prior to sacrifice to assess neuronal membrane disruption. Axonal injury was assessed by investigating labeling of the anterogradely transported amyloid precursor protein. Neuroinflammation was assessed by analyzing Iba-1+ microglial and GFAP+ astrocyte histological/morphological features as well as cytokine levels in both regions of interest (ROIs). Myelin pathology was assessed by evaluating the expression of myelin basic protein (MBP) and the propensity of MBP+ myelin debris. Results: Acute physiologic data showed no difference between groups except for reduction in weight loss following cFPI in Bup treated animals compared to saline. There were no discernable differences in axonal injury or membrane disruption between treatment groups. Cytokine levels were consistent between Bup and saline treated animals, however, microglia and astrocytes revealed region specific histological changes at 1d following Bup treatment. Myelin integrity and overall MBP expression showed no differences between Bup and saline treated animals, but there were significant regional differences in MBP expression between the cortex and thalamus.Conclusions: These data suggest effects of Bup treatment on weight following CFPI and potential regional specificity of Bup-associated microglial and astrocyte alterations, but very little change in other acute pathology at 1-day post-injury. Overall, this preliminary study indicates that use of Bup-SR-Lab in preclinical work does have effects on acute glial pathology, however, longer term studies will be needed to assess potential effects of Bup treatment on more chronic pathological progressions.
Vitamin D Deficiency in Children with Acute Bronchiolitis: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Case- Control Study
Authors: Golan-Tripto Inbal , Loewenthal Neta , Tal Asher , Dizitzer Yotam , Baumfeld Yael , Goldbart Aviv
Published: January 2021

Objective: To evaluate serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels in infants and toddlers with acute bronchiolitis (AB), compared to subjects with non-respiratory febrile illness.Methods: a prospective cross-sectional case-control study which compared serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels between infants and toddlers diagnosed with Acute Bronchiolitis (AB) to subjects with non-respiratory febrile illness. Results: 127 patients aged <24 months were recruited; 80 diagnosed with AB and 47 patients with non- respiratory febrile illnesses. Both groups had similar demographics aside from age (mean of 7 months vs. 10 months in the AB group compared to control group (p=0.03)) and respiratory symptoms. Serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels were significantly lower in the bronchiolitis group; median [IQR] 28[18-52] vs. 50[25-79] nmol/L, respectively, (p=0.005). Deficient vitamin D levels (<50nmol/L) was found more frequently in AB than controls; 73% vs. 51% (p=0.028). Multivariate logistic regression, adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity and nutrition, showed vitamin D deficiency was more probable in AB patients; OR[95%CI] 3.139[1.369-7.195]. No correlation was found between serum vitamin D levels and bronchiolitis severity, which was assessed via Modified Tal Score and by length of hospital stay. Conclusion: children with acute bronchiolitis displayed significantly lower vitamin D levels than children with non-respiratory acute febrile illnesses.
Exploring the Mechanical Properties of Human Cupula by Numerical Analysis of Temperature Experiments
Authors: Wu Xiang , Yu Shen , Shen Shuang , Liu Wenlong
Published: January 2021

The vestibular receptor of cupula acts an important role in maintaining body balance. However, the cupula buried in the semicircular canals (SCCs) will be destroyed if it is detached from the relevant environment. The mechanical properties of human cupula still remain ambiguous. In this paper, we explored the cupula’s elastic modulus changing with temperature by experiments and numerical simulation of SCCs model. We obtained 3 volunteers’ nystagmus induced by constant angular acceleration when the temperature of volunteers’ SCCs was 36℃ and 37℃ respectively. The slow-phase velocity of 3 volunteers decreased by approximately 3°/s when the temperature of SCCs reduced by 1℃, which corresponded to the reduction of cupula deformation by 0.3–0.8 µm in the numerical model. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of the variation of endolymphatic properties induced by temperature reduction on cupula deformation through numerical simulation. We found that the decrease of cupula deformation was not caused by the change of endolymphatic properties, but probably by the increase of cupula’s elastic modulus. With the temperature reducing by 1℃, the cupula’s elastic modulus may increase by 6%-20%, suggesting that the stiffness of cupula is enhanced. This exploration of temperature characteristic of human cupula promotes the research of alleviating vestibular diseases.
Acrolein Contributes to Human Colorectal Tumorigenesis Through Activation of RAS/MAPK Pathway
Authors: Tsai Hong-Chieh , Tsou Han-Hsing , Lin Chun-Chi , Chen Shao-Chen , Cheng Hsiao-Wei , Liu Tsung-Yun , Chen Wei-Shone , Jiang Jeng-Kai , Yang Shung-Haur , Chang Shih-Ching , Teng Hao-Wei , Wang Hsiang-Tsui
Published: January 2021

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most well-known malignancies with high prevalence and poor 5-year survival. Previous studies have demonstrated that intake of food rich in fat, and with low fiber content (as known as high-fat diet, HFD) is capable of increasing the odds of developing CRC. Acrolein, an IARC group 2A carcinogen, can be formed by thermal treatment of animal and vegetable fats, carbohydrates and amino acids through Maillard reaction. Also, acrolein has been shown to be produced from microbial glycerol metabolism in human gut. Consequently, humans are at risk of acrolein exposure through consumption of foods rich in fat. However, whether acrolein contributes to HFD-induced CRC tumorigenesis remains elusive.Methods. The effect of acrolein in oncogenic transformation was analyzed using NIH/3T3 cells with xenograft tumorigenesis mice models. Furthermore, cDNA microarray analysis with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was performed in acrolein-transformed NIH/3T3 cells. Finally, acrolein-induced DNA damages (Acr-dG) were analyzed in tumor tissues and normal epithelial of CRC patients using immunohistochemical analysis. The levels of Acr-dG adducts were associated with tumor characteristics and CRC patients’ survival using Chi-Square analysis and Kaplan Meier survival analysis, respectively.Results. In this present study, we found that acrolein induced oncogenic transformation including faster cell cycling, proliferation, soft agar formation, sphere formation, cell migration in NIH/3T3 cells. Using xenograft tumorigenicity assays, the acrolein-transformed NIH3T3 clone formed tumors whereas no tumors were observed in mice inoculated with NIH3T3 parental cells. In addition, RAS/MAPK pathway contributing to colon tumorigenesis was activated in NIH/3T3 Acr-clone using cDNA microarray analysis with IPA. Finally, Acr-dG adducts were higher in CRC tumor tissues compared to normal epithelial cells in CRC patients. Intriguingly, CRC patients with higher Acr-dG adducts have better prognosis. Conclusions. Taken together, this is the first study to demonstrate that acrolein is important in oncogenic transformation through activating RAS/MAPK signaling pathway contributing to colon tumorigenesis. Thus, acrolein might be a novel target for early detection, prevention and treatment of tumors in the future.
The Structure of Nursing Legislation in Iran from the Perspective of Nursing Policymakers: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hatefi-Moadab Nasim , Benton David C , Mohammadi Nooredin , Abedi Heydarali , Hazrati Maryam , Nasrabadi Alireza Nikbakht
Published: January 2021

Background: Nursing can and is directly affected by the legislation structure and its associated governance. So, nursing regulators and indeed practitioners must be aware of their own legislative framework. This content analysis was conducted to define the structure of nursing legislation in Iran. Method: A qualitative design using a content analysis approach was used using semi-structures interviews with nursing policymakers(n=15). Result: This content analysis revealed three categories: Competent authorities, Advancing the profession of nursing and COVID-19 as an opportunity window for nursing policymaking.Conclusion: There is an essential need to enactment an Iranian Nursing Practice Act through competent authorities. However, to achieve this goal nursing policy makers must be able to convince members of the Parliament about the contribution of this legislation regarding public safety. Furthermore, this will not be achieved except with diplomacy and capitalizing on any policy windows. Notably, the profound impact of the COVID-19 outbreak may provide just such a policy window.
An Evaluation of Readability of Information on the Internet Regarding Total Ankle Replacement
Authors: carthy andrea mc , Flavin Robert
Published: January 2021

Background:Health literacy is defined as the ability to understand basic health information with such competence as to be able to use this information to enhance health. Lower health literacy is associated with increased post-operative complications, reduced satisfaction and compliance. To ensure accessibility and comprehension by the general public, many international health organisations suggest that health literature has a reading grade level equivalent to the American sixth grade. However, previous studies show that this rarely occurs.Total ankle replacement (TAR) technology has rapidly progressed with new prosthesis showing increasingly improving outcomes. However, TAR remains a complex procedure which may be challenging to explain to the patient. Thus, many patients will turn to the internet for more information and as a ‘quasi-second opinion’. If the health education materials provided on the internet is not accessible to patients, it can leave them overwhelmed and confused. The aim of the study is to evaluate the readability of information on the internet with regards to Total Ankle ReplacementMethods: 110 websites from the two main search engines (Google and Bing) were assessed using the terms ‘total ankle replacement’ and ‘total ankle arthroplasty’. Once duplicates had been removed and exclusion criteria were applied, 36 unique websites were categorised and underwent analysis using readability software (WEB FX readability tool). The websites were assessed for readability using the Fleisch Reading Ease Score (FRES) and the Reading Grade Level (RGL). A score of greater than 65 for FRES and an RGL of six or less were considered acceptable. Differential and Inferential statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.Results:The mean FRES score was 54.95 (SD: ± 13.2); this was significantly below the recognised acceptable standard score of 65 (P<.0001). An ANOVA conducted showed significant difference between FRES scores based on categories (P=.041) with post-hoc testing showing that the difference between commercial and non-physician scores was the most significant (P=.016; CI:3.84-61.66).The mean RGL was 8.31 (SD: ± 1.95). One-way t-tests showed that these scores were significantly higher than the acceptable standard (P<.0001; CI: 1.64-2.97). ANOVA testing showed a significant difference based on category (P=.028) with post hoc testing showing significant difference between non physician and commercial scores (P=.012, CI: 0.71-9.33).Conclusion:The majority of the websites pertaining to total ankle replacement are significantly beyond the comprehension levels of the general public. This will affect the patient’s ability to discern the complexities and potential complications of total ankle arthroplasty, with serious ramifications for consent as well as post-operative rehabilitation and compliance.Level of Evidence: not applicable
Assessing the integrity of auditory processing and sensory memory in adults with cystinosis (CTNS gene mutations)
Authors: Francisco Ana A. , Berruti Alaina S. , Kaskel Frederick J. , Foxe John J. , Molholm Sophie
Published: January 2021

Background
Cystinosis, a rare lysosomal storage disease, is characterized by cystine crystallization and accumulation within tissues and organs, including the kidneys and brain. Its impact on neural function appears mild relative to its effects on other organs, but therapeutic advances have led to substantially increased life expectancy, necessitating deeper understanding of its impact on neurocognitive function in adulthood. We previously demonstrated intact auditory sensory processing, accompanied by mild sensory memory difficulties, in children and adolescents with cystinosis.
Methods
We investigated whether further progressive decrements in these processes would be observed in adults with cystinosis, comparing high-density auditory-evoked potential (AEP) recordings from adults with cystinosis (N = 15; ages: 19–38 years) to those of age-matched controls (N = 17). We employed a duration oddball paradigm with different stimulation rates, in which participants passively listened to regularly occurring standard tones interspersed with infrequently occurring deviant tones. Analyses focused on AEP components reflecting auditory sensory-perceptual processing (N1 and P2), sensory memory (mismatch negativity, MMN), and attentional orienting (P3a).
Results
Overall, adults with cystinosis produced highly similar sensory-perceptual AEP responses to those observed in controls suggesting intact early auditory cortical processing. However, significantly increased P2 and P3a amplitudes and reduced MMN at slower stimulation rates were observed, suggesting mild-to-moderate changes in auditory sensory memory and attentional processing. While cognitive testing revealed lower scores on verbal IQ and perceptual reasoning in cystinosis, these did not correlate with the AEP measures.
Conclusions
These neurophysiological data point to the emergence of subtle auditory processing deficits in early adulthood in cystinosis, warranting further investigation of memory and attentional processes in this population, and of their consequences for perceptual and cognitive function.
Increased Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress in School Students Soon After the Start of the COVID-19 Outbreak in China
Authors: Xu Hanmei , Zhang Hang , Huang Lijuan , Wang Xiaolan , Tang Xiaowei , Wang Yanping , Xiao Qingqing , Xiong Ping , Jiang Rongqiu , Zhan Jie , Deng Fang , Yu Mingya , Liu Dong , Liu Xuejun , Zhang Chunli , Wang Wenjun , Li Lu , Cao Hongmei , Zhang Wenchao , Zhou Hongping , Wang Wo , Yin Li
Published: January 2021

Background: The outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19) caused psychological stress in Chinese adults population. But we are unaware of whether the pandemic causes psychological stress on children.Methods: We used the Children’s Impact of Event Scale questionnaire (CRIES-13) to investigate the degree of Post-traumatic Stress (PTSD) symptoms caused by the pandemic in students selected from schools in Sichuan, Jiangsu, Henan, Yunnan, and Chongqing provinces of China.Results: A total of 7769 students(3692 male and 4077 female), aged 8-18 years, were enrolled in the study, comprising 1214 in primary schools, 2799 in junior high schools and 3756 in senior high schools. A total of 1639 students (21.1%) had severe psychological stress reactions. A large proportion of senior high school students (23.3%) experienced severe psychological stress, and they had the highest median total CRIES-13 score. Female students were more likely to experience severe psychological stress and had higher median CRIES-13 total scores than males. Conclusion: COVID-19 has placed psychological stresses on primary and secondary school students in China. These stresses are more likely to reach severe levels among female students and senior high school students.
Career aspirations among specialty residents in France: a cross-sectional gender-based comparison
Authors: Cathelain Alice , Jourdain Mercedes , Cordonnier Charlotte , Jonard Sophie Catteau , Sebbane Deborah , Copin Marie-Christine , Berlingo Laura , Rubod Chrystele , Garabedian Charles
Published: January 2021

Background: Most studies evaluating career aspirations among gender are performed in Anglo-Saxon countries. Two recent French studies looked at the career choice of residents in obstetrics & gynecology. It seemed useful to us to broaden this questioning to other specialties, by proposing a study to all residents in the same Faculty. The objective of our study was to describe residents’ career aspirations and possible barriers according to gender.Methods: Declarative cross-sectional survey, using questionnaires sent by email to the specialty residents of the Faculty of Medicine of Lille (France). An analysis by specialty group (i.e., medicine, surgery, obstetrics & gynecology, and anesthesia & resuscitation) and a comparison of the results according to gender were performed.Results: Of the 1,384 specialty residents currently in training, 462 answered the questionnaire (33.38%), among whom 289 women and 173 men (average age = 27.08 ± 0.091 years). Seventeen women (5.9%) were currently considering a university hospital career versus 37 men (21.4%) (p = 0.001).Gender analysis made it possible to identify obstacles to engaging in a university career: lacking a female model, more frequent doubting the ability to undertake this type of career among women (61.6%) than men (35.3%) (p < 0.001), and gender discrimination felt in the workplace for 51.6% of women (versus 7.5% of men, p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed specificities related to each specialty.Conclusions: Few residents plan to embark upon a university hospital career, let alone female residents. There are considerations specific to each specialty and marked gender differences regarding career aspirations. Many features have been identified as obstacles to access to university hospital positions for women. It is important to develop strategies to remove these barriers and enable women to pursue such university careers.
ECOG-ACRIN 2399: Analysis of Patient Related Outcomes after Chemoradiation for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Cmelak Anthony J. , Dietrich Mary S. , Li Shuli , Ridner Sheila , Forastiere Arlene A , Burtness Barbara A. , Cella David , Murphy Barbara A.
Published: January 2021

Background

We conducted a correlative study for E2399, a function preservation trial for resectable locally advanced oropharynx and larynx cancer, to prospectively assess effects of chemoradiation (CCR) on quality of life (QOL), swallowing and voice. We correlated the results of swallow assessments done via questionnaires and objective assessments.

Methods

The Functional Assessment of Cancer-HN (FACT-HN), the Performance Status Scale – Head and Neck (PSS-HN), swallow assessments (including modified barium swallow studies), and voice assessments (Voice Handicap Index and the Voice Disability Assessment) were conducted at baseline and periodically post-treatment for 2 years.

Results

Baseline QOL and swallowing function predicted overall survival. Patients experienced a marked decrease in QOL, swallowing, and speech post CCR although the decrease in vocal function was modest. Function and QOL returned towards baseline in the majority of patients by 12 months post treatment. Less than 10% of patients had severe dysphagia and were PEG dependent at 12 months post treatment. There was a high degree of correlation between the FACT-HN and PSS-HN swallow items. Statistically significant correlations were found between subjective and objective measures of swallow function.

Conclusions

Patients experience marked loss in swallowing function post CCR which returned to baseline in the majority of patients. The correlations between the FCM and self-report swallow items on the PSS and FACT-HN appear to be sufficiently strong to justify their use as a surrogate marker for swallowing disability in large therapeutic trials.
Socio-demographic associations of HIV among women attending antenatal care in selected rural primary care facilities in South Africa's Eastern Cape province.
Authors: Mabunda Sikhumbuzo A , Sigovana Khuthala , Chitha Wezile , Apalata Teke , Nomatshila Sibusiso
Published: January 2021

Background: To effectively reduce vertical HIV transmission requires a reduction of HIV prevalence and incidence among pregnant women and a full understanding of its epidemiology. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of HIV among women attending antenatal care and further determine spousal support during antenatal care attendance in rural areas in Eastern Cape province, South Africa.Methods: A Cross-sectional study of women attending antenatal care in four Primary Care facilities was conducted using an interviewer-administered questionnaire which collected information on socio-demographic characteristics and medical history. Binomial logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with HIV and to estimate the prevalence ratio (PR). The 95% confidence interval (95%CI) is used for precision of estimates; p≤0.05 for statistical significance.Results: A total of 343 participants were included in the final analysis. The antenatal HIV prevalence was 38.2% (95%CI: 33.2 – 43.9). For 75% of the women, the HIV diagnosis was made 141 days before the date of the interview (median=77 days, interquartile range=42-141 days). Participants between the age of 30 to 39 years were 50% more likely to be HIV positive compared to those who were between the age of 20 to 29, these differences were statistically significant (PR=1.5; p-value=0.001). Furthermore, self-employed women were 30% less likely to be HIV positive when compared to unemployed participants, this was also statistically significant (PR=0.7; p-value<0.0001).Conclusion: Despite a 100% antenatal HIV testing rate, the antenatal HIV prevalence remains high in this population, coupled with no spousal attendance in antenatal care. It is important to move beyond awareness about the HIV status to actionable strategies of reducing the HIV incident cases. It is therefore important to remain vigilant and monitor mother-to-child transmission that could be associated with this increased prevalence.