bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Propionic Acid-Based PET Imaging of the Fatty Acid Synthesis Pathway in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Tang Ganghua , Liu Shaoyu , Hu Ping , Ma Hui , Xiang Xianhong , Nie Dahong , Zhang Zhanwen
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate the potential value of 2-[18F]fluoropropionic acid ([18F]FPA) for PET imaging of prostate cancer (PCa) and to confirm the correlation between [18F]FPA accumulation and fatty acid synthase (FASN) levels in PCa models. The results of the first [18F]FPA PET study of a PCa patient are reported.MethodsA PET imaging comparison of [18F]FDG and [18F]FPA was performed in LNCaP, PC-3 and DU145 tumors. Additionally, in vivo blocking experiments in those models were conducted with orlistat. Western blotting staining of FASN were performed in the those xenograft tumors.ResultsThe uptake of [18F]FPA in the LNCaP and PC-3 tumors was higher than that of [18F]FDG (P<0.05 and P<0.05), while [18F]FDG was significantly superior to [18F]FPA in detecting DU145 tumors (P<0.05). Grayscale scanning showed that FASN expression in the LNCaP and PC-3 tumors was 33.3% and 10.3% higher than that in the DU145 tumors, respectively. The accumulation (% ID/g) of [18F]FPA in the LNCaP , PC-3 and DU145 tumors decreased by 27.6, 40.5 and 11.7%, respectively, after treatment with orlistat. The [18F]FPA showed higher tumor/background ratios than [18F]FDG in the first PCa patient (P<0.05).ConclusionsThe [18F]FPA uptake in PCa models was positively correlated with FASN expression and could be reduced after administration of a single FASN inhibitor. In addition, the [18F]FPA is a potential broad-spectrum PET imaging agent, and the imaging effect of [18F]FPA may be superior to [18F]FDG in human PCa.
Knowledge and Attitude of the Local Community Towards Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Rural Endemic Areas in Southwestern Yemen
Authors: Alhrazi Talal H , Haouas Najoua , Al-Mekhlafi Hesham M
Published: October 2020

BackgroundCutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), a historically neglected tropical disease, represents a significant public health problem in many endemic countries including Yemen. The ongoing armed conflict that started in March 2015 has had a negative impact on the entire healthcare system including infectious disease control programmes. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude towards CL among endemic communities in southwestern Yemen. MethodsFive hundred households in five areas of Shar’ab district of Taiz governorate were randomly selected to participate in a quantitative survey. A pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the participants’ sociodemographic background and their knowledge and attitude towards CL and the sand fly vector.ResultsThe analysis was conducted on a final sample of 466 individuals. Although the participants were aware of CL, about three quarters (77.7%) of them had poor overall knowledge about disease transmission, clinical presentation, treatment and prevention. Interestingly, about half of the participants (49.1%) were able to differentiate sand flies from other flies and mosquitoes; however, only 14.8% of the participants knew about the role of the phlebotomine sand fly in the transmission of CL. Similarly, the participants had poor overall knowledge about sand fly breeding sites, biting time and control measures. Although 44% of the participants considered CL to be more dangerous than malaria, only 36.6% believed that CL can be prevented and 76.4% had a negative attitude towards the disease. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that age and gender were the significant determinants of knowledge about CL and the sand fly vector among the studied population.Conclusion A poor level of knowledge about the different epidemiological aspects of CL was found among the rural population in Taiz. This factor, together with the major collapse of the healthcare infrastructure and the paralysis of health authorities since the beginning of the ongoing civil war in Yemen, may be contributing to the continued endemicity of CL in the area. Hence, health education on CL transmission and prevention should be provided to the targeted communities.
Total laparoscopic transabdominal-transdiaphragmatic approach for treating Siewert II tumors
Authors: Pang Wei , Liu Gang , Zhang Yan , Huang Yun , Yuan Xinpu , Zhao Zhanwei , Zhang Chaojun
Published: October 2020

BackgroundAlthough the morbidity of gastric cancer has decreased, the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) is increasing. Furthermore, no consensus exists on which surgical approach should be applied for Siewert type II AEG. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the technical safety and feasibility of a new surgical approach.MethodsSixty patients with Siewert type II AEG underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy with the total laparoscopic transabdominal-transdiaphragmatic (TLTT) approach, which needs an incision in the diaphragm.ResultsThe median operative time, reconstruction time and estimated blood loss were 214.8±41.6 mins, 29.40±7.1 mins and 209.0±110.3 ml, respectively. All of the patients had negative surgical margins. Conclusion: There were no intraoperative complications or conversions to open surgery. Our surgical procedure provides a unique option for the safe application of laparoscopic lower mediastinal lymph node dissection and gastrointestinal reconstruction. Trial RegistrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800014336. Registered 31 December 2017- Prospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=23111&htm=4.
The 100 Most Cited Articles on the Applications of Stem Cells in Osteoarthritis: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Yang Keda , Zhou Siming , Tao Lin
Published: October 2020

Background: Stem cells have been applied in the treatment of OA, which had attracted wide attention. However, the research area is relatively extensive, and the research level is variable. In this study, we reviewed the mechanisms and clinical applications of stem cells in OA by using bibliometric analysis for the first time. We also revealed the characteristics, superior results and developmental trends in this field.Methods: The Web of Science core collection database was used to search articles related to the application of stem cells in OA. We collected the general information from the top 100 cited articles. We analyzed and evaluated the articles according to publication number, journals, institutions, countries, keywords and extended keywords.Results: The 100 most cited articles were cited from 129 to 1353 times mainly reviews and original articles. These articles were published from 2001 to 2017 and distributed evenly in America, East Asia and European countries. The United States contributed most in published number and international cooperation. The top ten institutions are mainly major universities and Duke University published a maximum of 10 articles. In terms of journals ,57 articles were published in the top ten journals. The keywords were divided into 8 categories from molecular mechanisms to clinical application.Conclusions: In our study, we found that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) which could repair articular cartilage and inhibit local inflammation, are the most widely applied in research and treatment of OA. TGF-βwas crucial during the process. Exosomes are regarded as the active ingredients in stem cell therapy for OA. Microtissue engineering will contribute to accurate and effective stem cell therapy. The findings of our study will contribute to the continuous development of research and direct the research of stem cells in OA.
Kinematic Analysis and Simulation of an Orange Harvesting Robot
Authors: Zeeshan Sadaf , Aized Tauseef
Published: October 2020

One of the most challenging areas in robot design is its kinematic analysis for proper and efficient path planning. In agricultural robots, this study is even more crucial due to the uneven terrain and unstructured environment. In agricultural robots, work has been done on fruit harvesting robots yet its commercial recognition is still underway. Further research needs to be done in this field to make the fruit harvesting robots more commercially acceptable. In this paper, a 6 degree of freedom (DOF) orange harvesting robot is designed and its kinematic analysis is done. Forward kinematic is done using Denavit-Hartenberg (DH) parameters while the inverse kinematics is done using algebraic method. The calculated formulas are verified by simulation on RoboAnalyzer software. The algorithm for inverse kinematics using probabilistic approach did not generate any error and worked successfully generating 16 results within the workspace. The simulated dynamic results also supported the kinematic model. The kinematic study validates the model design and calculations, whereas, its simulation verifies the path planning and reachability of oranges on the trees within the confined workspace.
Parkinson’s Disease-Associated LRRK2 Interferes with Astrocyte-Mediated Alpha-Synuclein Clearance
Authors: Streubel-Gallasch Linn , Giusti Veronica , Sandre Michele , Tessari Isabella , Plotegher Nicoletta , Giusto Elena , Masato Anna , Iovino Ludovica , Battisti Ilaria , Arrigoni Giorgio , Greggio Elisa , Tremblay Marie-Eve , Bubacco Luigi , Erlandsson Anna , Civiero Laura
Published: October 2020

BackgroundParkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative, progressive disease without cure. To prevent PD onset or at least limit neurodegeneration, a better understanding of the underlying cellular and molecular disease mechanisms is crucial. Mutations in the leucine rich repeat kinase 2 ( LRRK2 ) gene represent one of the most common causes of familial PD. In addition, LRRK2 variants are risk factors for sporadic PD, making LRRK2 an attractive therapeutic target. M utations in LRRK2 has been linked to impaired alpha-synuclein (α-syn) degradation in neurons. However, in which way pathogenic LRRK2 affects α-syn clearance by astrocytes, the major glial cell type of the brain, remains unclear. The impact of astrocytes on PD progression has recently received much attention and recent data indicate that astrocytes play a key role in α-syn mediated pathology. MethodsIn the present study, we aimed to compare the capacity of wild-type astrocytes and astrocytes carrying the PD-linked G2019S mutation in Lrrk2 to ingest and degrade fibrillary α-syn. For this purpose, we used two different astrocyte culture systems that were exposed to sonicated α-syn for 24 hours and analyzed directly after the α-syn pulse or 6 days later. To elucidate the impact of LRRK2 on α-syn clearance, we performed various analyses, including complementary imaging, transmission electron microscopy and proteomic approaches. ResultsOur results show that astrocytes carrying the G2019S mutation in Lrrk2 exhibit a decreased capacity to internalize and degrade fibrillar α-syn via the endo-lysosomal pathway. In addition, we demonstrate that the reduction of α-syn internalization in the Lrrk2 G2019S astrocytes is linked to Annexin A2 (AnxA2) loss-of-function. ConclusionTogether, our findings reveal that astrocytic LRRK2 contributes to the clearance of extracellular α-syn aggregates through an AnxA2-dependent mechanism.
Rabies Mortality and Morbidity Associated with Animal Bites in Africa: A Case for Integrated Rabies Diseases Surveillance, Prevention and Control - A Scoping Review
Authors: Nyasulu Peter , Weyer Jacqueline , Tschopp Rea , Mihret Adane , Nuvor Samuel Victor , Balogun Tolulope , Tamuzi Jacques Lukenze , Nyakarahuka Luke , Ntinginya Nyanda Elias , Helegbe Gideon Kofi , Gebreyesus Melaku Tefera , Aseffa Abraham , Doumbia Seydou , Blumberg Lucille , Busse Reinhard , Drosten Christian
Published: October 2020

Background: Rabies a neglected tropical disease, mostly affecting poor and vulnerable populations living in remote rural areas in developing countries. The disease continues to pose a significant public health a threat with an estimated 59,000 dog-transmitted human deaths, of which an estimated 21,476 human deaths occur in Africa each year. The global strategy has been set by the quartite World Health Organization (WHO), the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), aiming for "zero human deaths associated with dog transmitted rabies by 2030". African countries, however, face several challenges and there are still gaps in controlling rabies. The aim of this study review is to determine rabies prevalence, mortality and associated risk factors in both human population and animal population and to evaluate the presence or absence of integrated one health surveillance response in African nations.Methods and analysis: We will conduct an electronic literature searches on PubMed, CINAHL, (Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Scopus, and Web of Science and other relevant databases. Reference lists from identified published articles or reviews and conference abstracts will also be searched for relevant articles. Published and unpublished literatures (grey) will be included in the search. The findings will be presented graphically in terms of mortality, morbidity, interventions for rabies control in Africa, research gaps identified, available research evidence, rabies surveillance, prevention and control and adverse events.Conclusion: This review will contribute to the coordination of interventions for surveillance, prevention, and control with African countries as country-based gaps and challenges and opportunities will be highlighted. In addition, the scaling up of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP rabies will be evaluated in African countries and the projection to achieve the target of "zero deaths of human rabies by 2030" in Africa.
RGD4C Peptide Mediates anti-p21Ras scFv Entry Into Tumor Cells and Produces an Inhibitory Effect on the Human Colon Cancer Cell Line SW480
Authors: Huang Chenchen , Liu Fangrui , Feng Qiang , Pan Xinyan , Song Shuling , Yang Ju-Lun
Published: October 2020

BackgroundAn anti-p21Ras scFv can specifically bind with mutant and wild-type p21Ras but cannot penetrate the cell membrane, which prevents it from binding to p21Ras in the cytoplasm. Here, the RGD4C peptide was used to mediate scFv penetration into tumor cells and produce an inhibitory effect.MethodsRGD4C-linker-EGFP and RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv recombinant expression plasmids were constructed, and the fusion proteins were expressed in E. coli and purified with HisPur Ni-NTA. RGD4C-linker-EFGP was used to test the factors affecting RGD4C penetration of the tumor cell membrane. The immunoreactivity of RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv toward p21Ras was identified by ELISA and western blotting. Moreover, immunocytochemistry was used to detect the ability of RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv to penetrate SW480 cells. Cell migration, colony formation, cell killing, and apoptosis assays were used to assess the inhibitory effect of RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv on SW480 cells in vitro.ResultsThe RGD4C peptide could target tumor cells, but endocytosis inhibitors and a low temperature inhibited RGD4C peptide endocytosis into cells, and tumor cell entry was time and concentration dependent. Additionally, a change in the cell membrane potential did not affect penetrability. We found that RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv could penetrate SW480 cells; effectively inhibit the growth, proliferation and migration of SW480 cells; and promote apoptosis in SW480 cells. ConclusionThe RGD4C peptide can mediate anti-p21Ras scFv entry into SW480 cells and produce an inhibitory effect, which indicates that RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv may be a potential therapeutic antibody for the treatment of RAS-mutant colorectal cancer.
Survival Analysis and Influence of the Surgical Aggression of a Cohort of Orthopedic and Trauma Patients in a Non-controlled Spread COVID-19 Scenario
Authors: Corella Fernando , Rosales Roberto , Guzman David , Cañones Miguel , Larrainzar-Garijo Ricardo
Published: October 2020

Background: During the coronavirus disease pandemic, determining the impact of elective and urgent orthopedic and trauma surgeries (OTS) on the infection rate and mortality probability can guide the preparations for next waves. The purpose of this paper was to do a survival analysis in a cohort of non-infected OTS patients and explaining the effect of different grades of surgical aggression.Methods: This is an observational study of 184 patients who underwent OTS in the month before the halt of surgical activities, before implementation of special measures, and high rate of transmission. Crude risk of infection, infection rates, survival and hazard function analysis, and Cox regression and Fine-Gray models for explaining the effect of aggression and inflammation (groups of surgery).Results: The crude risk of COVID-19 diagnosis was 14.13% (95%CI: 9.83%–19.90%). The total incidence rate (IR) was 2.67 (1000 person-day) (95%CI: 1.74–3.91). At the end of the follow-up, there was a 94.42% chance of surviving 76 days or more after OTS. The differences in survivor curves by surgery groups were statistically significant and established that Group of surgery 4 presented a lower survival function. The age adjusted for group of surgery, high blood pressure and respiratory history was one of the best model to explain the association with the mortality by COVID-19 (HR: 1.111, CI95%: 1.005-1.228; SHR: 1.111, CI95%: 1.046-1.177)Conclusions: There is an infection risk after OTS similar to the general population in a community transmission/area; the grade of aggression does not influence this rate. The survival probability is extremely high if patients were not previously infected. Mortality is higher if the group was susceptible to a higher aggression and inflammation grade; however, age adjusted for confounders as groups of surgery, high blood pressure and respiratory history are associated with mortality.
A Highly Mutable GST is Essential for Bract Colouration in Euphorbia Pulcherrima Willd. Ex Klotsch
Authors: Vilperte Vinicius , Boehm Robert , Debener Thomas
Published: October 2020

Background: Mutation breeding is an extraordinary tool in plant breeding to increase the genetic variability, where mutations in anthocyanin biosynthesis are targets to generate distinctive phenotypes in ornamental species. In poinsettia, ionizing radiation is routinely applied in breeding programs to obtaining a range of colours, with nearly all pink and white varieties being obtained after γ- or X-ray mutagenesis of red varieties. In the present study we performed a thorough characterization of a potential mutagenesis target gene as the main responsible for the ‘white paradox’ in poinsettiaResults: We identified a GST gene in poinsettia (Bract1) as an essential factor for the expression of anthocyanin-based red colouration of bracts, which presents a high phylogenetic similarity to known anthocyanin-related GSTs. Red poinsettia varieties and white mutants generated from these varieties by X-ray were analysed for polymorphisms related to the ‘white paradox’ in the species. A 4 bp mutation in a short repeat within the coding region of Bract1 is most likely responsible for the appearance of white phenotypes upon irradiation treatment. The polymorphism between wild-type and mutant alleles co-segregates with the phenotype in progeny from heterozygous red and white parents. Moreover, overexpression of Bract1 wild-type allele in Arabidopsis tt19 mutants restored the anthocyanin phenotype, while the Bract1 mutated allele showed to be non-functional. Conclusions: The identified repeat seems to be highly unstable, since mutated plants can be easily detected among fewer than 200 shoots derived from 10 mutated plants. Our data indicate that particular short repeat sequences, similar to microsatellite sequences or so-called dynamic mutations, might be hot spots for genetic variability. Moreover, the identification of the Bract1 mutation fills a gap on the understanding on the molecular mechanism of colour formation in poinsettia
Effects of Cognitive-behavioral and Psychodynamic-interpersonal Treatments for Eating Disorders: a Meta-analytic Inquiry Into the Role of Patient Characteristics and Change in Eating Disorder-specific and General Psychopathology in Remission
Authors: Moberg Leif Tore , Solvang Birgitte , Sæle Rannveig Grøm , Myrvang Anna Dahl
Published: October 2020

Background: Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic-interpersonal therapies (PIT) are the most used outpatient treatments for eating disorders. Knowledge about the outcomes of these therapies in terms of remission is limited. Also, there is a lack of knowledge about how different therapeutic changes and patient characteristic affects outcomes. Method: Reports on the effects of CBT and PIT for eating disorders were searched. Rates of remission and changes in eating disorder specific and general psychopathology were computed and meta-analytically synthesized. Regression models were made to predict summary event rates by patient characteristics and changes in specific and general psychopathology. Results: Only CBT produced remission rates (34.2%) significantly different from waitlist conditions, and only CBT led to significantly greater change in specific psychopathology than waitlist/nutritional counseling conditions. However, CBT and PIT were equally effective in changing general psychopathology. For CBT, change in specific psychopathology predicted remission only when controlling for differences between diagnostic categories. Change in general psychopathology predicted remission only for PIT. The presence of comorbid personality disorder decreased the effect of CBT. Conclusions: A group of patients with eating disorders may require therapy aimed at strengthening deficits in self functions not easily ameliorable by cognitive behavioral techniques alone. However, although effective in changing specific and general psychopathology, PIT is not effective in producing behavioral change. Further research should be aimed at identifying treatment interventions that effectuate both behavioral change and strengthening self-functions to substitute eating-disordered behavior to meet psychological needs in the long-term.
Behavioural and Physiological Response to Frustration in Autistic Youth: Associations with Irritability
Authors: Leno Virginia Carter , Forth Georgia , Chandler Susie , White Philippa , Yorke Isabel , Charman Tony , Pickles Andrew , Simonoff Emily
Published: October 2020

Background: Irritability is a common and impairing occurrence in autistic youth, yet the underlying mechanisms are not well known. In typically developing populations, differences in frustration response have been suggested as important driver of the behavioural symptoms of irritability. Research exploring the role of frustration response as a risk factor for irritability in autistic populations is limited and often uses on parent report or observer ratings; objective measures of frustration response appropriate for use in autistic populations are required to advance the field. Methods: In the current study, fifty-two autistic adolescents aged 13-17 years from a population-based longitudinal study completed an experimental task designed to induce frustration through exposure to periods of unexpected delay. Behavioural (number of button presses) and physiological (heart rate; HR) metrics were collected during delay periods. Irritability was measured using the parent-rated Affective Reactivity Index (ARI). Analyses used mixed-level models to test whether irritability was associated with different slopes of behavioural and physiological response in response to experimentally induced frustration. Age and baseline HR (for the physiological data only) were included as covariates. Results: Analyses showed a marginal association between irritability and the slope of behavioural response (incident rate ratio=.98, p=.06), and a significant association with the slope of physiological response (b=-.10, p=.04); higher levels of irritability were associated with a dampened behavioural and physiological response, as indicated by flatter slopes of change over the course of the task. This pattern of results remained when adjusting for IQ, autism symptom severity and medication use (association between irritability and slope of behavioural response: incident rate ratio=.98, p=.02; slope of HR response; b=-.10, p=.04). Conclusions: Results suggest that the current experimental task may be a useful objective measure of frustration response for use with autistic populations, and that a non-adaptive response to frustration may be one biological mechanism underpinning irritability in autistic youth. This may represent an important target for future intervention studies.
The study of life quality parameters in children and adolescents with HIV associated tuberculosis
Authors: Аdzhablaeva D. N.
Published: October 2020

The objective of the study:to perform comparative assessment of life quality (LQ) associated with health of children and adolescents suffering from tuberculosis, both HIV negative and HIV positive.

Subjects and methods. In 2017-2019, the cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted in Pediatric Department of Samarkand Regional TB Dispensary, the study was aimed to assess life quality associated with health in 70 children and adolescents at the age from 5 to 18 years old. 35 of them had tuberculosis and HIV infection (TB/HIV Group), 35 had tuberculosis and negative HIV status. Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory – PedsQL was used to assess the life quality.

Conclusion. The combination of HIV infection and tuberculosis has a more pronounced effect on the physical and mental functioning of patients and worsens the life quality of children and adolescents to a greater extent than tuberculosis.
Numerical investigation of flow characteristics over stepped spillways
Authors: Güven Aytaç , Mahmood Ahmed Hussein
Published: October 2020

Spillways are constructed to evacuate flood discharge safely so that a flood wave does not overtop the dam body. There are different types of spillways, with the ogee type being the conventional one. A stepped spillway is an example of a nonconventional spillway. The turbulent flow over a stepped spillway was studied numerically by using the Flow-3D package. Different fluid flow characteristics such as longitudinal flow velocity, temperature distribution, density and chemical concentration can be well simulated by Flow-3D. In this study, the influence of slope changes on flow characteristics such as air entrainment, velocity distribution and dynamic pressures distribution over a stepped spillway was modelled by Flow-3D. The results from the numerical model were compared with an experimental study done by others in the literature. Two models of a stepped spillway with different discharge for each model were simulated. The turbulent flow in the experimental model was simulated by the Renormalized Group (RNG) turbulence scheme in the numerical model. A good agreement was achieved between the numerical results and the observed ones, which are exhibited in terms of graphics and statistical tables.
Charles Darwin y el arbitraje
Authors: Bullard Alfredo , Repetto Jose Luis
Published: October 2020

En el presente artículo, apoyándose en doctrina autorizada y en data empírica, los autores sustentan la idea que el arbitraje es un fenómeno evolutivo que recoge las mejores prácticas del sistema del civil law y el common law. Por último, comentan el rol del soft law en el arbitraje internacional y la importancia que juega hoy en día la lex mercatoria.
El arbitraje internacional como un sistema transnacional de justicia
Authors: Gaillard Emmanuel
Published: October 2020

En el presente artículo, Emmanuel Gaillard desarrolla ampliamente las tres principales visiones que existen en el arbitraje internacional: la corriente monolocalista, la Westfaliana y la trasnacional. Asimismo, desarrolla sus consecuencias prácticas y el rol de la Convención de Nueva York de 1958 en el reconocimiento del arbitraje como un sistema trasnacional de justicia.
PERFIL EPIDEMIOLÓGICO DAS HEPATITES B E C NO ESTADO DO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE
Authors: Isabelle Nogueira de Araújo Anne , Mayara de Figueirêdo Oséas Jéssica , César Brigolini de Faria Júlio , De Pedro Netto Mendonça Beatriz , Moreira Lima Camila , Pessôa Pereira Leite Fabíola , Melo Laércio Almeida de
Published: October 2020

Introdução: Considerado um grave problema de saúde pública, a Hepatite é uma doença que se destaca por ser silenciosa e nem sempre apresentar sinais e sintomas, favorecendo assim o atraso no seu diagnóstico. Objetivo: Diante de um crescimento contínuo no estado do Rio Grande do Norte (RN) de casos de Hepatite B e C, o presente trabalho objetivou identificar o perfil epidemiológico da população do RN diagnosticada e notificada com hepatites B e/ou C entre os anos de 2007 a 2015, segundo as regionais de saúde. Método: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, descritivo, do tipo transversal, que utilizou uma consulta ao DATASUS para a obtenção dos dados. Resultados: Verificou-se que houve predominância do sexo masculino dentre os casos de hepatite B e C, assim como a faixa etária de 20 a 39 anos, considerando-se hepatite B e 40 a 59 para a hepatite C. Ademais, a raça parda foi a predominante em ambos os tipos virais; a 7ª região de saúde foi a regional que mais possuiu notificação e houve uma maior prevalência dos casos de hepatite B e C em pessoas com menores níveis de escolaridade. Conclusões: Concluiu-se que o perfil das hepatites B e C no estado do Rio Grande do Norte tem se mostrado semelhante aos dados do Brasil, com uma alta prevalência, sugerindo assim a necessidade de se ter uma maior articulação entre os setores e departamentos responsáveis pelo registro e controle das hepatites virais do tipo B e C e a importância do gestor em saúde frente a essas situações para a realização de medidas preventivas.
HARMONIZAÇÃO DO SORRISO COM LAMINADOS CERÂMICOS: RELATO DE CASO
Authors: Ramos Tavares Uzêda Kamila , Dantas Torres de Araújo Isabela , Jalles de Oliveira Victor , José Souza dos Santos Alex , Castillo Dutra Borges Boniek , Vieira de Assunção Isauremi
Published: October 2020

Introdução: Os padrões de beleza atuais aumentaram o nível de exigência estética e a busca por sorrisos cada vez mais harmônicos. As facetas cerâmicas destacam-se dentre as opções de tratamentos por associarem estética, longevidade e previsibilidade. Objetivo: Este trabalho objetivou apresentar um caso clínico de substituição de facetas diretas de resina composta por facetas indiretas de porcelana. Descrição do caso: A paciente relatou insatisfação com a estética do seu sorriso, destacando o formato, o tamanho e a cor dos elementos dentários 11 e 21. Diante da queixa e da situação clínica observada, propôs-se a confecção de laminados cerâmicos de dissilicato de lítio, mediante a realização prévia de gengivoplastia e de clareamento dentário. Conclusões: Conclui-se que o planejamento cuidadoso, o conhecimento da técnica operatória e a execução adequada do protocolo reabilitador permitem que os laminados cerâmicos reestabeleçam o sorriso de forma estética e funcional.
Metabolic Profile of Dendrobine in Rats Determined by Ultra-high-performance Liquid Chromatography/Quadrupole Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Bai Jun-qi , Guo Qian-xiang , Zhang Jing , Huang Juan , Xu Wen , Gong Lu , Su He , Luo Yu-bing , Li Jian-hua , Qiu Xiao-hui , Huang Zhi-hai
Published: October 2020

Aims:

Dendrobine is a major alkaloid present mainly in dendrobium nobile Lindl. It has
been reported to have analgesic, antipyretic, lower heart rate and blood pressure and other pharmacologic
activities. Despite its critical pharmacological function, its metabolite profiling is still unclear.

Methods:

In this study, the in vivo metabolite profiling of dendrobine in rats was investigated using
ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass
spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF-MS). The metabolites were predicted using MetabolitePilotTM software
with a mass defect filter (MDF) technique. These predicted metabolites were further analyzed
by MS2 spectra and compared with the detailed fragmentation pathway of the dendrobine standard
and literature data.

Results:

Total of 59 metabolites were identified for the first time in rat plasma and urine after oral
administration of dendrobine. Demethylated, dehydrogenated, hydroxylated, ketonizated and glucuronide
were the major metabolic pathways.

Conclusions:

This research provides scientific and reliable support for full understanding of the metabolic fate of dendrobine in vivo.
Association Between the COMT Val158Met Polymorphism and Antipsychotic Efficacy in Schizophrenia: An Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ma Jingsong , Zhao Mingzhe , Zhou Wei , Li Mo , Huai Cong , Shen Lu , Wang Ting , Wu Hao , Zhang Na , Zhang Zhiruo , He Lin , Qin Shengying
Published: October 2020

Background:

Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) contributes to the control of synaptic
dopamine (DA) transmission by catalyzing DA degradation in the presynaptic space. The COMT
Val158Met polymorphism (rs4680) substantially alters enzymatic activity and consequently synaptic
DA concentration in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The COMT genotype could, therefore,
exert a major influence on antipsychotic treatment response as many of these agents also target dopaminergic
transmission.

Objective:

The present meta-analysis aimed to test a putative relationship between the COMT
Val158Met polymorphism and antipsychotic response across different populations and antipsychotic
types.

Methods:

Searches of PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, OVID, Google Scholar, and Baidu Scholar
databases yielded 30 peer-reviewed studies published before January 2020 with a pooled total of 6291
participants. The Lipták-Stouffer Z score method for meta-analysis was applied to combine data. The Z
score was also calculated separately for Caucasian and Asian subgroups.

Results:

Pooled results indicated a highly significant association between COMT Val158Met and antipsychotic
response (Z = 6.709, P = 9.8 × 10-12). Further, this relationship remained significant in subgroup
analyses of Caucasian patients (Z = 3.180, P = 7.4 × 10-4) and Asian patients (Z = 4.487, P = 3.6
× 10-6).

Conclusions:

Pooled evidence supports the hypothesis that the COMT Val158Met polymorphism influences
the antipsychotic response in Caucasian and Asian schizophrenia patient populations. Prediction
of antipsychotic response by patient genotyping may warrant closer consideration in randomized clinical
trials of efficacy.
In Silico and In Vitro Studies of the Inhibitory Effect of Antihistamine Drug Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride on Human Salivary Alpha Amylase
Authors: Madjda Benguechoua , Khedidja Benarous , Samira Nia , Mohamed Yousfi
Published: October 2020

Background:

For the first time, the inhibitory effects on the human salivary alpha-amylase
activity of the anti-inflammatory drugs indomethacin, diclofenac sodium, ketoprofen, diclofenac
potassium, diclofenac, triamcinolone acetonide, and the antihistamine drugs levocetirizine
dihydrochloride, desloratadine, cycloheptadine hydrochloride, have been investigated to confirm
the other properties of these drugs.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the effect of nine known drugs on human salivary α-amylase
in vitro and the nature of interactions with structure-activity relationship using molecular docking
experiments.

Methods:

The inhibition of human salivary alpha amylase by the six anti-inflammatory and three
antihistamine drugs has been carried out using the new method that has been proved in our previous
work. Molecular docking has been achieved for the first time for these drugs using the Auto-
Dock Vina program.

Results:

Cyproheptadine hydrochloride presented the highest inhibitory activity against α-amylase
with IC50=0.7 mg/ml, while the other drugs showed weak activities (IC50 > 2 mg/ml).

Conclusion:

We conclude that Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, which was studied by docking experiments,
exhibited the best inhibitory activity on salivary α-amylase in vitro & in silico.
Risk Factors for Intimate Partner Violence and Relationships to Sexual Risk-Related Behaviors Among College Students
Authors: Gill Montana , Haardörfer Regine , Windle Michael , Berg Carla J.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a major public health concern, often initially experienced in young adulthood; IPV has been associated with adverse sexual health and sexual risk outcomes.

Objective:

This study examined 1) correlates of experiencing Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and 2) IPV in relation to sexual risk-related behaviors among college students.

Methods:

We analyzed 2016 cross-sectional survey data regarding sociodemographics, past IPV experiences, and sexual risk-related behaviors (sex after drug/alcohol use, condomless sex) among male and female students aged 18-25 from seven Georgia colleges/universities, respectively.

Results:

IPV victimization was associated with being Black, greater depressive symptoms, and substance use. Multivariable regression, including sociodemographic covariates, indicated that alcohol/drug use before the last sex was associated with sexual and physical aggression victimization among men (Nagelkerke R-squared=.155), but with fewer negotiation experiences and more injury experiences among women (Nagelkerke R-squared=.107). Condom less sex at last intercourse was associated with psychological aggression experiences among women (Nagelkerke R-squared=.125), but with no IPV factor among men (Nagelkerke R-squared=.188).

Conclusion:

The distinct relationships between IPV and sexual risk among men and women underscore the need for targeted prevention interventions.
Metallic Glasses and Their Composites
Authors:   Materials Research Forum LLC, Wohlbier Thomas
Published: October 2020

Metallic glasses and their crystal/glass composites find ever more applications in such fields as mini transformers, microelectromechanical devices, pressure sensors, precision surgical instruments, biological implants and sportive goods (springs, diaphragms, membranes, knife blades, electromagnetic wave shields, optical mirrors, power inductors, Coriolis flow meters, etc.). The book reviews recent research and suggests future developments, e.g. in the area of dual-phase composite/hybrid materials.
Analisis kebutuhan media pembelajaran berbasis android pada mata pelajaran kewirausahaan
Authors: Yunus Yuliawati , Fransisca Monica
Published: October 2020

Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui kebutuhan siswa pada media pembelajaran berbasis Android mata pelajaran kewirausahaan. Metode penelitian bersifat kuantitatif dengan subjek penelitian siswa kelas X jurusan perhotelan dan jasa pariwisata di kota Padang. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah angket atau kuesioner, menyangkut dua indikato dengan hasil indikator kebutuhan sarana dan kecenderungan gaya belajar menunjukkan bahwa 100% siswa yang mempunyai smartphone berbasis Android, interaksi siswa dengan smartphone menunjukan presentasi 94,1 %. Hal tersebut menunjukkan kebutuhan sarana smartphone sangat diperlukan terlebih hanya 29,4% guru yang memanfaatkan media pembelajaran berbasis Android. Hasil kuesioner dari indikator kebutuhan untuk memperhatikan kecenderungan gaya belajar siswa lebih suka dengan presentase 41,2% menggunakan kata seperti rasakan, sentuh dan pegang, 47,1% siswa lebih mudah mengingat hal yang dilihat atau dibaca serta yang dilakukan, 58% siswa lebih suka membaca dari pada dibacakan, kemudian 52,5% siswa sangat setuju, 47,1 % setuju jika dikembangkan media pembelajaran berbasis Android. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian tersebut dapat disimpulkan perlu dikembangkan media pembelajaran berbasis Android dalam proses pembelajaran.AbstractThe research purpose was to determine the needs of students on Android-based learning media on entrepreneurship subjects. The research method was quantitative research methodology, with class X as research subjects majoring in hospitality and tourism services in Padang. This research used questionnaires as an instrument, involving two indicators, which consist of indicators requirement for facilities and learning style tendencies. It was determined that 100% of students owned Android mobile phones, student’s interaction with a mobile phone was at 94.1%. This shows that mobile phone facilities requirement was determined, especially only 29.4% of teachers who used Android-based learning media. Questionnaires results indicator implied that tendency of student learning styles preferring to using words such as feel, touch, and hold which shown at the percentage of 41.2%, then 47.1% of students were more easily remember things which could be seen or read and practicing, 58% of students prefer to read by themselves rather than read by others. Therefore, 52.5% of students strongly agree, and 47.1% agree with Android-based learning media development. According to the result, we must develop Android-based learning.
Rhetorical Appeals and Tactics in New York Times Comments About Vaccines: Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Gallagher John , Lawrence Heidi Y
Published: October 2020

Background

Improving persuasion in response to vaccine skepticism is a long-standing problem. Elective nonvaccination emerging from skepticism about vaccine safety and efficacy jeopardizes herd immunity, exposing those who are most vulnerable to the risk of serious diseases.

Objective

This article analyzes vaccine sentiments in the New York Times as a way of improving understanding of why existing persuasive approaches may be ineffective and offers insight into how existing methods might be improved. We categorize pro-vaccine and anti-vaccine arguments, offering an in-depth analysis of pro-vaccine appeals and tactics in particular to enhance current understanding of arguments that support vaccines.

Methods

Qualitative thematic analyses were used to analyze themes in rhetorical appeals across 808 vaccine-specific comments. Pro-vaccine and anti-vaccine comments were categorized to provide a broad analysis of the overall context of vaccine comments across viewpoints, with in-depth rhetorical analysis of pro-vaccine comments to address current gaps in understanding of pro-vaccine arguments in particular.

Results

Appeals across 808 anti-vaccine and pro-vaccine comments were similar, though these appeals diverged in tactics and conclusions. Anti-vaccine arguments were more heterogeneous, deploying a wide range of arguments against vaccines. Additional analysis of pro-vaccine comments reveals that these comments use rhetorical strategies that could be counterproductive to producing persuasion. Pro-vaccine comments more frequently used tactics such as ad hominem arguments levied at those who refuse vaccines or used appeals to science to correct beliefs in vaccine skepticism, both of which can be ineffective when attempting to persuade a skeptical audience.

Conclusions

Further study of pro-vaccine argumentation appeals and tactics could illuminate how persuasiveness could be improved in online forums.
Efficacy of a Novel Intraoperative Engineered Sharps Injury Prevention Device: Pilot Usability and Efficacy Trial
Authors: Jenny Hillary , Reategui Via y Rada Maria , Yesantharao Pooja , Xun Helen , Redett Richard , Sacks Justin Michael , Yang Robin
Published: October 2020

Background

The American College of Surgeons reports 88,320 intraoperative needlestick injuries (NSIs) per year, resulting in US $376 to US $2456 in costs per NSI. Engineered sharps injury prevention (ESIP) devices protect against NSIs. To our knowledge, no study has been published to date to demonstrate clinical effectiveness of an intraoperative ESIP device. Operative Armour is a wearable arm cuff that can be donned during surgical closure to allow surgeons to keep a suture pack and sharps protection container on their forearm.

Objective

We characterize Operative Armour’s ESIP device effectiveness in a tertiary hospital, hypothesizing that this device will decrease NSI risk by decreasing behaviors associated with NSIs: needle passing and handling.

Methods

A prospective case-control study was conducted with institutional review board quality improvement designation in which authors observed skin closures of plastic surgery procedures. To ensure accuracy, one surgeon was observed at a time. Control surgeries were purely observational; intervention cases involved surgeon use of the device during skin closure. Outcomes of interest included needle passing, needle handling, lost needles, and loaded waiting needles.

Results

Surgeons were observed in 50 control and 50 intervention cases. Operative Armour eliminated needle passing during skin closure. One NSI occurred in one control case; no NSIs were observed in intervention cases (P=.36). The mean number of loaded and unprotected waiting needles was also significantly decreased in the intervention group from 2.3 to 0.2 (P<.001). Furthermore, a multivariable linear regression established that Operative Armour significantly decreased the number of needle adjustments by hand per stitch observed (F4, 21.68=3.72; P=.01). In fact, needle adjustments by hand decreased overall (1 adjustment per 10 stitches vs 1 adjustment per 5 stitches, P=.004), and adjustments occurred half as frequently with use of Operative Armour in free flap reconstruction (1 adjustment per 10 stitches vs 1 adjustment per 5 stitches, P=.03) and a quarter as frequently in other breast reconstruction cases such as mastopexy (1 adjustment per 20 stitches vs 1 adjustment per 5 stitches, P=.002).

Conclusions

Operative Armour effectively functions as an ESIP device by decreasing intraoperative needle passing and handling. Although sample size prohibits demonstrating a decrease in NSIs during observed cases, by decreasing behaviors that drive NSI risk, we anticipate an associated decrease in NSIs with use of the device.