bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Sanitasi Lingkungan dengan Kejadian Infeksi Soil Transmitted Helminths pada Anak Sekolah Dasar di Jember
Authors: Kusumawardani Nur Aqmarina , Sulistyaningsih Erma , Komariah Cicih
Published: April 2020

Poor environmental sanitation is suspected to be one of the causes of soil transmitted helminthes (STH) infection. Environmental sanitation consists of water sources, latrine, sewerage, garbage disposal facilities, and floor type. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between environmental sanitation and the incidence of STH infection in primary school children. This was an observational analytic study with cross-sectional design. The subjects were 80 students of two elementary schools in Jember. Stool samples were collected and examined by Kato-Katz method. Data of environmental sanitation was collected by questionnaire and direct observation. Kato-Katz examination showed that 9 samples (11,3%) infected by Ascaris lumbricoides. The majority respondents had not fulfilled requirements of good environmental sanitation. The result of Spearman test showed that there was a significant correlation between STH infection and latrine (p=0,02) but there were no significant relationship between STH infection and environmental sanitation (p = 0.165), gender (p = 0,669), age (p = 0,92), water source (p = 0.084), sewerage (p = 0.146), garbage disposal facilities (p = 0,728), and floor type (p = 0,065).
Dolor musculoesquelético en fisioterapeutas pediátricos
Authors: Arellano Muguruza Liseth A. , Oropeza Melgar Lucía J. , Vidal Valenzuela Lupe , Camacho Conchucos Teofilo
Published: April 2020

El ejercicio profesional del fisioterapeuta dentro de su área laboral está caracterizado por realizar movimientos repetitivos, cargas y descargas de peso, el cual si no se realiza de una manera adecuada tendrá como consecuencias alteraciones músculo-esqueléticas que causan dolor. Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia del dolor músculo- esquelético en fisioterapeutas pediátricos en instituciones de salud de la ciudad de Lima. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de tipo observacional – descriptivo de corte transversal. El grupo de estudio estuvo constituido por 47 fisioterapeutas pediátricos de dos instituciones de salud ubicadas en la ciudad de Lima. Para recolectar la información se utilizó la encuesta como técnica y como instrumento se utilizó un cuestionario sobre el dolor músculo-esquelético elaborado para este fin. Resultados: El 100% de los fisioterapeutas pediátricos presentaron dolor y el 95,7% en los últimos 12 meses. El área más afectada fue el cuello (78,7%). La edad promedio es de 30,3 años, y los años de experiencia fueron 6,1 ± 5,7 años, rango de 1 a 24 años. La principal medida preventiva que los fisioterapeutas encuestados, siempre realizan durante su campode trabajo es utilizar diferentes partes de su cuerpo para realizar alguna técnica fisioterapéutica durante el tratamiento. Conclusiones: La presencia de dolor musculoesqueléticos en fisioterapeutas pediátricos en los últimos 12 meses fue de 95,7 % y en los últimos 7 días 89,4%. A pesar de conocer las estrategias y las medidas preventivas observamos que los fisioterapeutas no lo realizan con frecuencia.
Alteraciones de la altura tonal e intensidad vocal en niños de 4 a 6 años de las instituciones de educación inicial públicas del distrito de Magdalena del Mar en el año 2015.
Authors: Márquez  Flores Maria  Esperanza , Saldaña Tap Hanna Fátima Del Solansh , Vicente Bustillos Stefani Luisa , Alfaro Fernández Paul Rubén , Rojas Llerena Milagros
Published: April 2020

A lo largo del tiempo, las alteraciones de voz han incrementado su presencia significativamente, más aún en la población infantil, afectando muchas veces su comunicación y desarrollo personal, por lo que es importante generar una cultura de prevención. Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia de las alteraciones de la altura tonal e intensidad vocal en niños de 4 a 6 años de las Instituciones de Educación Inicial Públicas del Distrito de Magdalena del Mar en el año 2015. Material y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de tipo transversal. Se utilizaron dos instrumentos para la recolección de datos: Una Ficha de Recolección que fue respondida por los padres de familia sobre el género, la edad y el estado actual de la voz de su niño y un Software de análisis acústico PRAAT (Versión 5.4.06) con el cual se midió la altura tonal e intensidad vocal, permitiendo determinar si la voz era la adecuada o presentaba alguna alteración, al ser comparados los resultados obtenidos con los parámetros bibliográficamente establecidos. Resultados: De una muestra total de 128 niños, se recolectó 117 datos, el 22,22% de esta población presentó tanto la altura tonal como la intensidad vocal alterados, donde el 65,38% fueron de género femenino. Además los niños de 4 y 6 años presentaron su altura tonal alterada, con un 34,29% a su población, proporcionalmente. Conclusiones: El55,56% de la muestra presentó una alteración a nivel de la intensidad vocal, lo que indica un inadecuado uso vocal.
Frecuencia de las caracteristicas de hiperlaxitud articular en edad escolar de 7 a 10 años
Authors: Tesen Torrejon Edwin Jose , Tuesta Gallegos Judith , Alfaro Fernández Paul Rubén , Granados Carrera Julio
Published: April 2020

Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia de hiperlaxitud articular en la edad escolar de 7 a 10 años. Material y métodos: El estudio es descriptivo, transversal, observacional y prospectivo; de una población de 608 niños de 7 a 10 años de edad de un colegio público del Callao que cursaban el 2°, 3°, 4° y 5° de primaria, se obtuvo en forma no aleatoria una muestra de 243 niños conformada solo por los que firmaron el consentimiento informado. Resultados: La proporción de hiperlaxitud articular de la población de estudio fue de 69,55%, con predominancia del sexo femenino (79% vs 57% en varones), según la edad disminuye conforme aumenta la edad a excepción de los 10 años (81, 72, 62 y 83 por ciento).
TARIFF ELIMINATION: IMPACTS AND TREATMENTS FOR RESOLVING NIGERIA-EPAs STALEMATE
Authors: Onogwu Godwin Odo , Bzugu Peter Madu , C. Ani Emmanuel
Published: April 2020

In this manuscript, attempts were made to assess the impacts on Nigeria of full and instant tariff elimination from agricultural imports. A schedule of annual percentage reductions till full elimination as against an instant total or arbitrary elimination across all imports from the EU, as well asthe expected annual provisions via aids for envisaged trade to install infrastructural capacity aimed at forestalling fiscal imbalance, leading to stabilization for Nigeria, advocated. The study evaluates the likely share of Nigeria’s imports from the European Union (EU), Economic Community of West African States(ECOWAS), and the rest of the world (ROW) in major agricultural product sections trade. The World Integrated Trade Solutions (WITs) platform was used to illicit a likely Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) scenario import data through a tariff eliminated query set up. The major impacts estimated include the resultant consumption impact, revenue impact, welfare impact, trade creation and diversion impacts, welfare impact of trade creation with consumption impact, and Welfare impacts of trade diversion with consumption impacts, in addition to their implications for scheduled tariff eliminations. Summary results were presented at product section levels as percentage of the impacts to contribution of agricultural sector in Nigeria’s GDP. Based on the estimated impacts and terms of trade deal, it is recommended that Nigeria should follow a schedule of percentage tariff reduction across product sections relative to the current most favored nations’ rather than arbitrary measures as a major policy of liberalizing trade. An annual percent tariff reduction rates over the 25 years, of 0.38%; 1.35%; 0.62%; 0.72%; and 0.2, for product sections 01-05, respectively, is recommended. In addition, it is also recommended that corresponding tariff losses in revenue due to scheduled reductions in tariff should be provided annually via aid for trade, for improvement in infrastructure, production and exportation that will sustain and improve intra, inter and extra regional trade in a growth and globalization pursuit aided by the EU. Keywords: International Agricultural Product Imports; Aid for Trade; EPAs; Impacts; Percentage Tariff Reduction Schedule.JEL Classification: F; F1; F6
DAMPAK COVID-19 TERHADAP KEGIATAN PEMBELAJARAN ONLINE DI PERGURUAN TINGGI KRISTEN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Windhiyana Ericha
Published: April 2020

COVID-19 merupakan wabah penyakit yang berasal dari Tiongkok yang menyebar dengan cepat ke seluruh dunia. COVID-19 menyebar di Indonesia pada awal Maret 2020. Penyebaran virus ini menyebabkan kerugian untuk banyak negara terutama dalam bidang ekonomi. Dalam bidang pendidikan, COVID-19 juga mengubah model pembelajaran secara drastis; seluruh kegiatan pembelajaran dilakukan secara daring mulai dari tingkat sekolah dasar sampai perguruan tinggi. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian diskriptif kualitatif yang mendeskripsikan kegiatan pembelajaran daring di Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana setelah ditetapkannya seluruh kegiatan pembelajaran dilaksanakan di rumah dengan mode daring. Subjek terdiri dari 3 mahasiswa dan 2 dosen Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana. Pengumpulan data menggunakan wawancara. Berdasarkan hasil wawancara, kegiatan pembelajaran dengan mode daring di Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana sudah efektif dengan memanfaatkan aplikasi Zoom, Google Classroom, Schoology, dan Edmodo. Kendala dalam pelaksanaan pembelajaran daring yaitu masalah koneksi internet yang kurang mendukung.
KONSELING KELOMPOK REALITA UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KEDISIPLINAN BELAJAR SISWA MADRASAH IBTIDAIYAH, EFEKTIFKAH?
Authors: Nadhifa Faralia , Habsy Bakhrudin All , Ridjal Tadoer
Published: April 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui keefektifan konseling kelompok realita dalam meningkatkan kedisipilinan siswa di sebuah Madrasah Ibtidaiyah. Penelitian ini, menggunakan rancangan eksperimen dengan desain pretest dan posttest control group. Penelitian dilaksanakan selama 6 bulan dengan menggunakan pendekatan konseling kelompok realita dengan teknik metafora dan diskusi kualitas. Data dianalisis menggunakan uji t-test. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian ditemukan bahwa konseling kelompok realita efektif untuk meningkatkan kedisiplinan belajar siswa pada Madrasah Ibtidaiyah yang dijadikan sampel penelitian. Saran dan rekomendasi dari hasil penelitian ini antara lain: 1) Guru Bimbingan dan Konseling dapat menerapkan layanan konseling kelompok ralita sebagai alternatif untuk meningkatkan kedisiplinan siswa, 2) Peneliti selanjutnya dapat menggunakan teknik lain yang relevan untuk menguji keefektifan konseling kelompok realita.
Engineering Waterfloods for Improved Oil Recovery
Authors: Craig F. F.
Published: April 2020

This presentation was an SPE Distinguished Lecture during 1971-1972.

Waterflooding has come a long way since it was first tried in 1865, over one hundred years ago, in the Pithole City area of Pennsylvania. Its first use was to maintain the reservoir pressure, Pennsylvania. Its first use was to maintain the reservoir pressure, and thus allow wells to have a longer productive life than they would by pressure depletion. Since that first project, waterflooding has climbed to a dominant role among fluid injection methods. It has a number of things going for it: (1) water is generally available, (2) it can be injected with relative ease because of the hydraulic head it possesses in the injection well, (3) it spreads well throughout an possesses in the injection well, (3) it spreads well throughout an oil-bearing formation, and (4) water is generally efficient in displacing oil. Increased knowledge of waterflooding has kept pace with its popularity. With today's technology we can engineer waterfloods for popularity. With today's technology we can engineer waterfloods for improved oil recovery. (Slide 1) My talk this evening is divided into three sections: a description of the steps an engineer goes through in planning a waterflood and predicting its performance, a discussion of the practical use of predicting its performance, a discussion of the practical use of waterflood predictions involving the comparison of actual and predicted performance during a project's life, and lastly a few observations on performance during a project's life, and lastly a few observations on improved waterflooding techniques. But first it's pertinent to see the current status of waterflooding as an oil recovery method. (Slide 2) This slide shows a plot of the daily oil producing rate in the United States resulting from fluid injection, with waterflooding accounting for nearly all this production.
Molecular detection of Bartonella in ixodid ticks and plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) in Shiqu County, China
Authors: Hao Lili , Yuan Dongbo , Guo Li , Hou Wei , Mo Xi , Yin Jie , Yang Aiguo , Li Rui
Published: April 2020

Background: Bartonella bacteria have been associated with an increasingly wide range of human and animal diseases. They were identified as being globally dispersed as emerging pathogens. Ticks and small rodents are known as hosts of human and animal bartonellosis. They play a significant role in the preservation and circulation of bartonellae in nature. This study investigates the occurrence of Bartonella spp. in ticks and plateau pika in Shiqu county which is located on the Eastern Qinghai-Tibetan plateau in China. Shiqu county is spread over approximately 26,000 square kilometers, with an average altitude of above 4,200 meters and vast area of pastureland.Results: A total of 818 ticks (Dermacentor everestianus, 79.0%, 646/818; Haemphysalis qinghaiensis, 21.0%, 172/818) were collected in 4 villages of Shiqu county. Only Bartonella melophagi was detected in tick samples with a total prevalence of 30.1% (246/818). The infection rates of Bartonella spp. in ticks from Arizha, Maga, Derongma, and Changxgma were 4.8%, 76.8%, 12.5%, and 18.0% respectively. The infection rate of Bartonella spp. in Maga was higher (p< 0.01) than in other villages. Regarding plateau pika, the total infection rate of Bartonella spp was 24.1%, with 20.8% (15/72), 30.9% (25/81), 13.8% (9/65), and 29.4% (20/68) in Arizha, Maga, Derongma, and Changxgma respectively. Finally, B. queenslandensis, B. grahamii, and two unvalidated Bartonella species were detected. No significant difference was observed (p> 0.05) in the infection rates between these study sites.Conclusion: To date, only D. everestianus and H. qinghaiensis were found in Shiqu county with high infection of Bartonella spp. in the ticks and plateau pika. The threats of Bartonella species to the public health should be closely monitored.
Upregulation of pERK and c-JUN by γ-tocotrienol and not α-tocopherol are essential to the differential effect on apoptosis in prostate cancer cells.
Authors: Moore Christine , Palau Victoria , Mahboob Rashid , Lightner Janet , Stone William , Krishnan Koyamangalath
Published: April 2020

Background: α-tocopherol (AT) and γ-tocotrienol (GT3) are vitamin E isoforms considered to have potential chemopreventive properties. AT has been widely studied in vitro and in clinical trials with mixed results. The latest clinical study (SELECT trial) tested AT in prostate cancer patients, determined that AT provided no benefit, and could promote cancer. Conversely, GT3 has shown antineoplastic properties in several in vitro studies, with no clinical studies published to date. GT3 causes apoptosis via upregulation of the JNK pathway; however, inhibition results in a partial block of cell death. We compared side by side the mechanistic differences in these cells in response to AT and GT3.Methods: The effects of GT3 and AT were studied on androgen sensitive LNCaP and androgen independent PC-3 prostate cancer cells. Their cytotoxic effects were analyzed via MTT and confirmed by metabolic assays measuring ATP. Cellular pathways were studied by immunoblot. Quantitative analysis and the determination of relationships between cell signaling events were analyzed for both agents tested. Non-cancerous prostate RWPE-1 cells were also included as a control. Results: The RAF/RAS/ERK pathway was significantly activated by GT3 in LNCaP and PC-3 cells but not by AT. This activation is essential for the apoptotic affect by GT3 as demonstrated the complete inhibition of apoptosis by MEK1 inhibitor U0126. Phospho-c-JUN was upregulated by GT3 but not AT. No changes were observed on AKT for either agent, and no release of cytochrome c into the cytoplasm was detected. Caspases 9 and 3 were efficiently activated by GT3 on both cell lines irrespective of androgen sensitivity, but not in cells dosed with AT. Cell viability of non-cancerous RWPE-1 cells was affected neither by GT3 nor AT. Conclusions: c-JUN is a recognized master regulator of apoptosis as shown previously in prostate cancer. However, the mechanism of action of GT3 in these cells also include a significant activation of ERK which is essential for the apoptotic effect of GT3. The activation of both, ERK and c-JUN, is required for apoptosis and may suggest a relevant step in ensuring circumvention of mechanisms of resistance related to the constitutive activation of MEK1.
Association of PIN3 16-bp Duplication Polymorphism of TP53 gene with Breast Cancer Risk in Mali and A Meta-analysis.
Authors: Diakite Brehima , Kassogue Yaya , Dolo Guimogo , Kassogue Oumar , Keita Mamadou Lassine , Joyce Brian , Neuschler Erin , Wang Jun , Musa Jonah , Traore Cheick Bougari , Kamate Bakarou , Dembele Etienne , Sellama Nadifi , Isichei Mercy , Holl Jane L , Murphy Robert , Doumbia Seydou , Hou Lifang , Maiga Mamoudou
Published: April 2020

Background. Breast cancer, the most common tumor in women in Mali and worldwide has been linked to several risk factors, including genetic factors, such as the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism of TP53 gene. The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism in the susceptibility to breast cancer in the Malian population and to perform a meta-analysis to better understand the correlation with data from other populations.Methods. We analyzed the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism in blood samples of 60 Malian women with breast cancer and 60 healthy appearing Malian women using PCR. In addition, we performed a meta-analysis of data from case-control studies published in articles retrieved from international databases (Pubmed, Harvard University Library, Genetics Medical Literature Database, Genesis Library and Web of Science). Overall, odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI from fixed and random effects models were determined. Inconsistency was used to assess heterogeneity between studies and publication bias was estimated using the funnel plot.Results. In the studied Malian patients, a significant association of PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism with breast cancer risk was observed in dominant (A1A2+A2A2 vs. A1A1: OR = 2.26, CI 95% = 1.08-4.73; P = 0.02) and additive (A2 vs. A1: OR =1.87, CI 95% = 1.05-3.33; P = 0.03) models, but not the recessive model (P = 0.38). In the meta-analysis, nineteen (19) articles were included with a total of 6,018 disease cases and 4,456 controls. Except for the dominant model (P = 0.15), an increased risk of breast cancer was detected with the recessive (OR=1.46, 95% CI = 1.15-1.85; P = 0.002) and additive (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.02-1.19; P = 0.01) models.Conclusion. The Malian case-control study suggests that PIN3 16-bp polymorphism duplication of TP53 gene is an important risk factor for breast cancer in Malian women. These findings are supported by the meta-analysis of studies from different ethnicities.
Characterization of a potential probiotic bacterium Lactococcus raffinolactis WiKim0068 isolated from fermented vegetable using genomic and in vitro analyses
Authors: Jung Min Young , Lee Changsu , Seo Myung-Ji , Lee Se Hee , Roh Seong Woon
Published: April 2020

Background: Lactococcus members belonging to lactic acid bacteria are widely used as starter bacteria in the production of fermented dairy products. From kimchi, a Korean food made of fermented vegetables, Lactococcus raffinolactis WiKim0068 was isolated and its genome was analyzed. Results: The complete genome of the strain WiKim0068 consists of one chromosome and two plasmids that comprises 2,292,235 bp, with a G+C content of 39.7 mol%. Analysis of orthoANI values among Lactococcus genome sequences showed that the strain WiKim0068 has > 67% sequence similarity to other species and subspecies. In addition, it displayed no antibiotic resistance and can metabolize nicotinate and nicotinamide (vitamin B3). Conclusion: These results augments our understanding of the genus Lactococcus and suggest that this new strain has potential industrial applications.
Behavioural plasticity of Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles arabiensis undermines LLIN community protective effect in a Sudanese-savannah village in Burkina Faso
Authors: Perugini Eleonora , Guelbeogo Wamdaogo Moussa , Calzetta Maria , Manzi Sara , Virgillito Chiara , Caputo Beniamino , Pichler Verena , Ranson Hilary , Sagnon N'Fale , Torre Alessandra della , Pombi Marco
Published: April 2020

Background: Despite the overall major impact of Long Lasting Insecticide treated Nets (LLINs) in eliciting individual and collective protection to malaria infections, some sub-Saharan Countries, including Burkina Faso, still carry a disproportionately high share of the global malaria burden. This study aims to analyse the possible entomological bases of LLIN limited impact, focusing on a LLIN-protected village in the Plateau Central region of Burkina Faso. Methods: Human Landing Catches (HLCs) were carried out in 2015 both indoors and outdoors at different time-windows during the highest biting activity phase for Anopheles gambiae s.l. Collected specimens were morphologically and molecularly identified and processed for Plasmodium detection and L1014F insecticide-resistance allele genotyping. Results: Almost 2.000 unfed An. gambiae s.l. (54% Anopheles coluzzii , 44% Anopheles arabiensis ) females landing on human volunteers were collected, corresponding to a median number of 23.5 females/person/hour. No significant differences are observed in median numbers of mosquitoes collected indoor and outdoor, nor between sporozoite rates in An. coluzzii (6.1%) and An. arabiensis (5.5%). The estimated median hourly Entomological Inoculation Rate (EIR) on volunteers is 1.4 infective bites/person/hour. Results do not show evidence of the biting peak during night hours typical for An. gambiae s.l. in the absence of bednet protection. The frequency of L1014F resistant allele (N=285) was 66% in An. coluzzii and 38% in An. arabiensis . Conclusions: The observed biting rate and sporozoite rates are in line with the literature data available for An. gambiae s.l . in the same geographical area before LLIN implementation and highlight high levels of malaria transmission in the study village. Homogeneous biting rate throughout the night and lack of preference for indoor-biting activity suggest the capacity of both An. coluzzii and An. arabiensis to adjust their host-seeking behaviour to bite humans despite bednet protection, accounting for the maintenance of high rates of mosquito infectivity and malaria transmission. These results – despite being limited to a local situation in Burkina Faso – represent a paradigmatic example of how high densities and behavioural plasticity in the vector population may contribute to explain the limited impact of LLINs on malaria transmission in holo-endemic Sudanese savannah areas in West Africa.
Metagenomic analysis of gut microbiota in Parkinson's disease patients from Central China
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhao Qiang , Fang Xing , Xu Meiling , Tang Jie , Zhang Yu , Gao Ping , Sun Xiaodong , Sang Ming , Wang Puqing
Published: April 2020

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, pathologic and epidemiologic studies suggest that gut microbiota may play important roles in the occurrence and progression of Parkinson's disease. However, the alterations in fecal microbiome in PD patients from Central China has not been investigated. Therefore, in this case-control study, we characterised the gut microbial community of 46 PD patients and compared it to those of healthy spouses by using metagenomic shotgun sequencing. Correlation between altered microbiota and clinical features were examined, functional pathways of gut microbiota were estimated, and potential biomarker were explored for further understaning of gut microbiota in PD. Results: Microbial communities in the feces of PD patients were notably different from those of healthy spouses at species level. Gut microbiota of patients was characterized by depletion of Prevotella_copri and Bacteroides_fragilis, while the Bacteroides_stercoris and Escherichia_coli were markedly elevated. Correlation analysis found that most identified species were negatively correlated with disease clinical features. In particular, Prevotella_copri was negatively correlated with age and UPDRS Ⅲ score. Random forest model indicated that 6 species including Prevotella_copri had good predictive value for disease. Functional analyses of the metagenomes revealed differences in microbiota metabolism. Pathways associated with superpathway of thiamin diphosphate biosynthesis, 4-aminobutanoate degradation, glucose-1-phosphate degradation and methylphosphonate degradation were significant increase in patients, while pathways associated with aromatic amino acid biosynthesis, chorismate biosynthesis, thiamin formation and pyrimidine deoxyribonucleosides salvage were significantly decrease. Functional pathways of Prevotella_copri were mainly concentrated in UMP biosynthesis, S-adenosyl-L-methionine cycle and guanosine ribonucleotides de novo biosynthesis. Conclusion: Our findings confirmed changes of gut microbiota in Chinese patients with PD. Altered microbiota had correlation with the clinical characteristics of disease, which may used as potential biomarkers. Different functional pathways of gut microbiota in PD patients will help to improve our understanding of the mechanism in disease, and targeting on gut microbiota may be one of the new therapeutic choices of PD in the future.
Overexpression of Mig-6 in Cartilage Induces an Osteoarthritis-Like Phenotype in Mice
Authors: Bellini Melina , Pest Michael Andrew , Rodrigues Manuela Miranda , Qin Ling , Jeong Jae-Wook , Beier Frank
Published: April 2020

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and characterized by degeneration of articular cartilage. Mitogen-inducible gene 6 (Mig-6) has been identified as a negative regulator of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR). Cartilage-specific Mig-6 knockout (KO) mice display increased EGFR signaling, an anabolic buildup of articular cartilage and formation of chondro-osseous nodules. Since our understanding of the EGFR/Mig-6 network in cartilage remains incomplete, we characterized mice with cartilage-specific overexpression of Mig-6 in this study. Methods: Utilizing knee joints from cartilage-specific Mig-6 overexpressing (Mig-6over/over) mice (at multiple time points), we evaluated the articular cartilage using histology, immunohistochemical staining and semi-quantitative histopathological scoring (OARSI) at multiple ages. MicroCT analysis was employed to examine skeletal morphometry, body composition, and bone mineral density.Results: Our data show that cartilage-specific Mig-6 overexpression did not cause any major developmental abnormalities in articular cartilage, although Mig-6over/over mice have slightly shorter long bones compared to the control group. Moreover, there was no significant difference in bone mineral density and body composition in any of the groups. However, our results indicate that Mig-6over/over male mice show accelerated cartilage degeneration at 12 and 18 months of age. Immunohistochemistry for SOX9 demonstrated that the number of positively stained cells in Mig-6over/over mice was decreased relative to controls. Immunostaining for MMP13 appeared increased in areas of cartilage degeneration in Mig-6over/over mice. Moreover, staining for phospho-EGFR (Tyr-1173) and lubricin (PRG4) was decreased in the articular cartilage of Mig-6over/over mice. Conclusion: Overexpression of Mig-6 in articular cartilage causes no major developmental phenotype; however, these mice develop earlier OA during aging. These data demonstrate that Mig-6/EGFR pathways is critical for joint homeostasis and might present a promising therapeutic target for OA.
Characterization of novel dual tandem CD19/BCMA chimeric antigen receptor T cells to potentially treat multiple myeloma
Authors: Kang Liqing , Zhang Jian , Li Minghao , Xu Nan , Qi Wei , Tan Jingwen , Lou Xiaoyan , Yu Zhou , Sun Juanjuan , Wang Zhenkun , Fu Chengcheng , Tang Xiaowen , Dai Haiping , Chen Jia , Wu Depei , Yu Lei
Published: April 2020

Background: Treatment with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells directed against the B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) promoted transient recovery from multiple myeloma (MM). However, the absence of this antigen on immature plasma cells may limit the efficacy of this modality and facilitate relapse. The purpose of this study is to characterize a novel CAR that includes both a single-chain variable fragment (scFv)-BCMA and an scFv-CD19 in tandem orientation (tan-CAR) in an attempt to target both BCMA and CD19 expression on MM cells. Method: The scFv sequences from the anti-CD19 antibody FMC63 and the anti-BCMA antibody C11D5.3 were ligated in tandem with transmembrane and T-cell signaling domains to generate the tan-CAR construct. Specificity and efficacy of activated tan-CAR T cells were analyzed using in vitro proliferation, cytokine release, and cytolysis assays. We also evaluated the in vivo efficacy with a xenograft mouse model that included target tumor cells that expressed CD19 or BCMA and compared the results to those obtained with conventional CAR T cells. Results: The in vitro studies revealed specific activation of tan-CAR T cells by K562 cells that overexpressed CD19 and/or BCMA. Cell proliferation, cytokine release, and cytolytic activity were all comparable to the responses of single scFv CAR T cells. Importantly, in vivo studies of tan-CAR T cells revealed specific inhibition of tumor growth in the mouse xenograft model that included cells expressing both CD19 and BCMA. Systemic administration of tan-CAR T cells resulted in complete tumor remission, in contrast to the reduced efficacies of BCMA-CAR T and CD19-CAR T alone in this setting. Conclusion: We report the successful design and execution of novel tan-CAR T cells that promote significant anti-tumor efficacy against both CD19 and BCMA antigen-positive tumor cells in vitro and in vivo . The data from this study reveal a novel strategy that may help to reduce the rate of relapse in the treatment with single scFv-CAR T cells.
Doppler Ultrasound Screening For Significant Carotid Artery Stenosis In Cardiac Surgery Patients, Presenting To Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan.
Authors: Aasim Muhammad , Mustafa Haroon , Aziz Raheela , Hussain Shahzada , Khan Muhammad Salman
Published: April 2020

Background: This study aimed to determine the frequency of significant carotid artery stenosis by Doppler Ultrasound screening in patients undergoing open heart surgery.Method: From January 2019 to April 2019, 125 consecutive patients who were booked for open heart surgery, in Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar Pakistan, were included in this study. Adult patients aging more than 18years were studied irrespective of the planned cardiac surgical procedure, while pediatric and adolescent patients below the age of 18years were excluded.Using Mindray® DC 70 Color Doppler Ultrasound Scanner, significant carotid artery stenosis was determined by a Radiologist as stenosis of more than 50 % luminal diameter of the carotid artery under study.Results: We studied 250 carotid arteries of 125 patients (87 males and 38 females with age range 19 to 80 years (mean 57.47 years). Significant stenosis was found in 13 patients (10.40 %) with slight male preponderance (7:6).Conclusion: Doppler ultrasound study is a good modality, free of radiation hazards for screening carotid arteries in patients undergoing open Heart surgery. Patients with significant carotid artery stenosis on Doppler ultrasound study may be objectively confirmed by subsequent CT carotid angiography. However, further studies are required to assess the efficiency of Doppler ultrasound study in carotid artery stenosis in comparison to CT carotid angiography.Routine Doppler ultrasound screening in adult cardiac surgical patients can identify significant carotid artery stenosis and can help in subsequently reducing the risk of operative stroke in patients undergoing open heart surgery.
A Comparison of the Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Circumcised and Uncircumcised Adult Males in Rustenburg, South Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Iyemosolo Blanchard Mbay , Chivese Tawanda , Esterhuizen Tonya Marianne
Published: April 2020

Background
South Africa has a persistent burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), despite improvements in prevention, treatment, screening, and surveillance. Male circumcision has been shown to be effective in preventing HIV, and other STIs. However, there is minimal data on the protective effect of circumcision in high-risk populations such as migrant miners. The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of STIs between circumcised and uncircumcised adult males in Rustenburg, North West Province, South Africa
Methods
The study used baseline data collected in an observational cohort study. Adult males in a mining town were assessed for STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis) using syndromic assessment. Data on circumcision status and other risk factors for STIs were collected using an interview administered structured questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independent effect of circumcision on STI presence after adjusting for confounders.
Results
A total of 339 participants with a median age of 25 years (IQR 22–29) were included in the study, of whom 116 (34.2%) of whom were circumcised. The overall STIs prevalence was 27.4% (95% CI 22.8–32.6%) and was lower in the circumcised participants compared with those who were uncircumcised (15.5% vs 33.6%, respectively, p < 0.001). Circumcision was strongly associated with a lower risk of STIs (OR 0.359, 95% CI 0.196–0.656, p = 0.001) after adjustment for employment and condom use.
Conclusion
In this high-risk population, with a relatively high prevalence of STI, and 34% circumcision, circumcision appears to be protective against STIs.
Risky Sexual Behaviour among Male Immigration and Correctional Personnel in Kano State, Nigeria, 2018
Authors: Azeez Nureni , Usman Aishat Bukola , Stephen Adebowale Ayo , Jibo Abubakar Muhammad , Iliyasu Zubairu
Published: April 2020

Background

Worldwide, uniformed personnel have been recognized as a population at high risk for sexually transmitted infections because of their high mobility, power differentials and affluence. However, limited research studies have been documented on risky sexual behaviour (RSB) among male uniformed personnel in Nigeria. We conducted this study to determine the prevalence and identify the predictors of RSB among male immigration and correctional personnel in Kano State.
Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among 306 male immigration and correctional personnel using multi-stage sampling technique. A pre-tested self-administered structured questionnaire containing sociodemographic and variables associated with RSB was used for data collection. Indicators of RSB included transactional sexual intercourse, sexual intercourse with casual acquaintances and multiple non-regular sexual partner over the last 12 months. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and logistic regression (α = 0.05).
Results

Mean age of the respondents in the immigration and correctional services were 37.9 ± 9.3 and 38.0 ± 8.1 years respectively. Overall prevalence of RSB was 15.1% (9.2% and 20.9% among correctional and immigration workers respectively). The identified predictors of RSB were service group, marital status and attending club house prior to sexual intercourse. The likelihood of RSB was lower among the correctional personnel (aOR = 0.38, CI = 0.17–0.80) than the immigration officers. Being married is protective of RSB (aOR = 0.38, CI = 0.18–0.81) while attending club house prior to sexual intercourse predisposes the uniform personnel to RSB (aOR = 3.90, CI = 1.30-11.68).
Conclusions

Risky sexual behaviour was highly prevalent among the investigated uniform men but was higher among immigration officers than the correctional personel. Effective health education on the possible implication of RSB is highly recommended for immigration and correctional personnel.
The Oncogenic Potential of a Mutant TP53 Gene Explored in Two Spontaneous Lung Cancer Mice Models
Authors: Ramelow Julian , Brooks Christopher , GaO Li , Almiman Abeer A , Williams Terence M , Villalona-Calero Miguel A , duan wenrui
Published: April 2020

BackgroundLung cancer is the number one cancer killer worldwide. A major impediment to progress in the lung cancer treatment field is the lack of realistic mouse models that replicate the complexity of human malignancy and immune contexture within the tumor microenvironment. Such models are urgently needed. Mutations of the tumor suppressor gene TP53 are among the most common alterations in human lung cancers.MethodsPreviously, we developed a line of lung cancer mouse model where mutant human TP53-273H is expressed in a lung specific manner in FVB/N background. To investigate whether the human TP53 mutant has a similar oncogenic potential when it is expressed in another strain of mouse, we crossed the FVB/N-SPC-TP53-273H mice to A/J strain and created A/J-SPC-TP53-273H transgenic mice. We then compared lung tumor formation between A/J-SPC-TP53-273H and FVB/N-SPC-TP53-273H.ResultsWe found the TP53-273H mutant gene has a similar oncogenic potential in lung tumor formation in both mice strains, although A/J strain mice have been found to be a highly susceptible strain in terms of carcinogen-induced lung cancer. Both transgenic lines survived more than 18 months and developed age related lung adenocarcinomas. With micro CT imaging, we found the FVB-SPC-TP53-273H mice survived more than 8 weeks after initial detection of lung cancer, providing a sufficient window for evaluating new anti-cancer agents.ConclusionsOncogenic potential of the most common genetic mutation, TP53-273H, in human lung cancer is unique when it is expressed in different strains of mice. Our mouse models are useful tools for testing novel immune check point inhibitors or other therapeutic strategies in treatment of lung cancer.
Health care provided to recent asylum-seeking and non-asylum-seeking pediatric patients at a Swiss tertiary hospital
Authors: Brandenberger Julia , Pohl Christian , Vogt Florian , Tylleskär Thorkild , Ritz Nicole
Published: April 2020

BackgroundAsylum-seeking children represent an increasing and vulnerable group of patients whose health needs are largely unmet. Data on the health care provision to asylum-seeking children in European contexts is scarce. In this study we compare the health care provided to recent asylum-seeking and non-asylum-seeking children at a Swiss tertiary hospital.MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional retrospective study in a pediatric tertiary care hospital in Switzerland. All patients and visits from January 2016 to December 2017were identified, using administrative and medical electronic health records. The asylum-seeking status was systematically assessed at the reception desks and the patients allocated accordingly in the two study groups.ResultsA total of 202’316 visits by 55’789 patients were included, of which asylum-seeking patients accounted for 1674 (1%) visits by 439 (1%). The emergency department had the highest number of visits in both groups with a lower proportion in asylum-seeking compared to non-asylum-seeking children: 19% (317/1674) and 32% (64’315/200’642) respectively. Hospital admissions were more common in asylum-seeking patients 11% (184/1674) and 7% (14’692/200’642). Frequent visits accounted for 48% (807/1674) of total visits in asylum-seeking and 25% (49’886/200’642) of total visits in non-asylum-seeking patients.ConclusionsHospital visits by asylum-seeking children represented a small proportion of all visits. The emergency department had the highest number of visits in all patients but was less frequently used by asylum-seeking children.Higher admission rates and a larger proportion of visits from frequently visiting patients suggest that asylum-seeking patients present with more complex diseases. Further studies are needed, focusing on asylum-seeking children with medical complexity.
Identification and Comparison of Hyaluronic Acid Biosynthetic Genes from Different Capsular Types of Pasteurella Multocida
Authors: E-KOBON TEERASAK , Pasomboon Pailin , Chumnanpuen Pramote
Published: April 2020

BackgroundPasteurella multocida produces a capsule composed of different polysaccharides according to the capsular serotype (A, B, D, E, and F). Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a component of certain capsular types of this bacterium, especially capsular type A. Previously, two HA biosynthetic genes from a capsular type A strain were studied for the industrial-scale improvement of HA production. Molecular comparison of these genes across different capsular serotypes of P. multocida has not been reported. This study aimed to compare nine HA biosynthetic genes (glck, pgi, pgm, galU, hyaC, glmS, glmM, glmU, and hyaD) of eleven P. multocida strains (A:B:D:F = 8:1:1:1) with those of other organisms using sequence and structural bioinformatics analyses.ResultsThese nine genes showed a high level of within-species similarity (98–99%) compared to other organisms. Only the last gene of two strains with capsular type A:3 (PM70 and CRIMBP-0884) and one capsular type F strain (HN07) significantly differed from those of other strains (82%). Analysis of amino acid patterns together with phylogenetic results showed that the HA biosynthetic genes of the type A and D strains were closely related compared to those of the type B and F strains. However, the genes in the capsular type F strain were notably similar to those of the capsular type A:3 strain. Protein structural analysis supported structural similarities of the encoded enzymes between the strains of capsular types A, B, D, and F, except for the Glck, Pgm, GlmU and HyaD proteins.ConclusionOur bioinformatics analyses proposed that variations observed within these genes could be useful for genetic engineering-based improvement of hyaluronic acid production.
Factors associated to managers’ belief whether their employees cannot and do not want to work until an older age, and measure activities increasing their employees’ possibilities of working in an extended working life.
Authors: Nilsson Kerstin , Nilsson Emma
Published: April 2020

Background: The demographic situation with an increasing number of elderly citizens will postpone the retirement age in most countries. However, retirement is a socially accepted way to withdraw from a demanding working life.Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the main factors associated to managers’ beliefs their employees want to or can work until 65 years of age or beyond, and measures increasing participation in an extended working life.Methods: The baseline survey in a follow up study including 249 managers in the municipality sector in Sweden. By logistic regression we investigated the associations between two outcome measures: i) whether employees wanted to work, and ii) whether employees could work until 65 years of age or beyond, and statements within nine areas related to a sustainable working life as well as measure statements for an extend working life.Results : Of the mangers 79% stated their employees ‘can’ and 58% that their employees ‘want to’ work until 65 years of age or beyond. The employees’ health, physical work environment, skills and competence were statistically significant to the mangers’ belief that their employees could not work until 65 years of age or beyond. Lack of support in the social work environment and lack of possibilities to arrange relocations were the most important factors to managers’ beliefs whether employees would not want to work until age 65 or beyond.Conclusion: To offer the employee other tasks in the workplace if needed was a measure statistically significant associated to increase the managers’ belief whether their employees both could and wanted to go on and work until 65 years of age and beyond. Additionally, the managers’ belief measures to decreased physical and mental strains and rotation between different tasks to reduce work load and wear would increase whether their employees can work, and reduction of pace and working hours would increase whether employees want to work in an extended working life past 65 years of age. The managers’ perspective on how their employees ‘can’ and ‘want’ to work will hopefully contribute to the understanding of the extended working life process.
Using volunteered geographic information to assess mobility in the COVID-19 pandemic context: cross-city time series analysis of 41 cities in 22 countries from March 2nd to 26th 2020
Authors: Vanoni Matia , McKee Martin , Bonell Chris , Semenza Jan , Stuckler David
Published: April 2020

Background: Restricting mobility is a central aim for lowering contact rates and preventing COVID-19 transmission. Yet the impact on mobility of different policies of restriction is not well-understood.Methods: Trends were evaluated using Citymapper’s mobility index covering 41 cities worldwide between 2nd and 26th March 2020, expressed as percentages of typical usage periods from 0% as the lowest and 100% as normal. China and India were not covered. Multivariate fixed effects models were used to estimate the association of policies restricting movement on mobility before and after their introduction. Policy restrictions were assessed using the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Stringency Index as well as measures coding the timing and degree of school and workplace closures, transport restrictions, and cancellation of mass gatherings. Results: Mobility declined in all major cities throughout March. Larger declines were seen in European than Asian cities. The COVID-19 Government Response Stringency Index was strongly associated with declines in mobility (r = -0.75, p<0.001). After adjusting for time-trends, we observed that implementing a mobility restriction to the recommended level was associated with a decline of mobility of 10.0% for school closures (95% CI: 4.36% to 15.7%), 15.0% for workplace closures (95% CI: 10.2% to 19.8%), 7.09% for cancelling public events (95% CI: 1.98% to 12.2%), 18.0% for closing public transport (95% CI: 6.74% to 29.2%), 13.3% for restricting internal movements (95% CI: 8.85% to 17.8%) and 5.30% for international travel controls (95% CI: 1.69 to 8.90). In contrast, as expected, there was no association between population mobility changes and fiscal or monetary measures or emergency healthcare investment.Conclusions: Understanding the effect of public policy on mobility is crucial to slowing and reducing COVID-19 transmission. By using Citymapper’s mobility index, this work provides the first evidence about trends in mobility and the impacts of different policy interventions, suggesting that closure of public transport, workplaces and schools are particularly impactful.