bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOCIAL CONFLICT RESOLUTION THROUGH EMPOWERMENT OF LOCAL WISDOMS
Authors: Jamin Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Ethnic, religious, race, and cultural diversity, as well as a large number of populations, are a treasure and strength for the Indonesian people, but on the other hand, it can be potential social conflicts that jeopardize the national integrity. Local wisdom which lived generations by generations and owned by the various local community is a social asset that can be empowered in social conflict resolution. Local wisdom plays an important role, not only preventing social conflict but also providing breakthroughs to resolve conflicts that occurred. Law Number 7 of 2012 concerning Social Conflicts Resolution which reflects the principles of local wisdom, it should be more empower those principles into reality. This empowerment can be done by actualizing the values and institutionalize of local wisdom in social conflict resolution that is implemented at the stages of conflict prevention, termination of the conflict, and restoration of post-conflict.
Three-Dimensional Distribution of Cochlear Macrophages in the Lateral Wall of Cleared Cochlea
Authors: Bae Seong Hoon , Kwak Sang Hyun , Yoo Jee Eun , Kim Kyu Min , Hyun Young Min , Choi Jae Young , Jung Jinsei
Published: July 2020

Objectives. Resident macrophages are well known to be present in the cochlea, but the exact patterns thereof in spiral ligaments have not been discussed in previous studies. We sought to document the distribution of macrophages in intact cochleae using three-dimensional imaging.Methods. Cochleae were obtained from C-X3-C motif chemokine receptor 1+/GFP mice, and organ clearing was performed. Three-dimensional images of cleared intact cochleae were reconstructed using two-photon microscopy. The locations of individual macrophages were investigated using 100-μm stacked images to reduce bias. Cochlear inflammation was then induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inoculation into the middle ear through the tympanic membrane. Four days after inoculation, three-dimensional images were obtained.Results. Macrophages were scarce in areas adjacent to the stria vascularis, particularly the area just beneath it even though many have suspected macrophages to be abundant in this area. This finding remained consistent upon LPS-induced cochlear inflammation, despite a significant increase in the number of macrophages, compared to non-treated cochlea.Conclusion. Resident macrophages in spiral ligaments are scarce in areas adjacent to the stria vascularis.
Isolated Axillary Nerve Rupture due to Closed Nondislocating Injury of the Shoulder in Contact Sports
Authors: Kawano Kenichi , Hara Yukinori , Hoshikawa Shinya , Tajiri Yasuhito , Matsuura Hiroyoshi
Published: July 2020

Case:

Axillary nerve rupture without shoulder joint fracture or dislocation in contact sports is very rare. To date, there has been no detailed report on such cases. We present 2 rare cases of axillary nerve rupture in contact sports who were successfully treated with free nerve grafting.

Conclusion:

In contact sports, the deltoid muscle is sometimes paralyzed temporarily after a collision. However, similar to our cases, the axillary nerve can be lacerated without fracture or dislocation. It is necessary to watch the course of paralysis carefully and consider nerve reconstruction if it does not recover.
Telemedicine and Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: Lanham Nathan S. , Bockelman Kyle J. , McCriskin Brendan J.
Published: July 2020

» Telemedicine can serve as a medium for patient evaluation, monitoring, and interpretation of diagnostic imaging and other tests.

» Advantages of telemedicine include improved access to care, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency.

» Challenges remain regarding more widespread adoption of telemedicine and involve reimbursement as well as regulatory support.

» The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a paradigm shift in telemedicine that is here to stay.

» Patient satisfaction is a key component of telemedicine and will drive its evolution.
Inequalities in Life Expectancy and All-Cause Mortality in the United States by Levels of Happiness and Life Satisfaction: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Lee Hyunjung , Singh Gopal K.
Published: July 2020

Background: Despite having one of the highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita levels, United States (US) ranks lower in subjective well-being, including happiness and life satisfaction, compared with European countries. Studies of the impact of happiness and life satisfaction on life expectancy and mortality in the US are limited or non-existent. Using a national longitudinal dataset, we examined the association between levels of happiness/life satisfaction and US life expectancy and all-cause mortality.

Methods: We analyzed the 2001 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) prospectively linked to 2001-2014 mortality records in the National Death Index (NDI) (N=30,377). Cox proportional hazards regression was used to model survival time as a function of happiness, life satisfaction, and sociodemographic and behavioral covariates.

Results: Life expectancies at age 18 among adults with high levels of happiness and life satisfaction were, respectively, 7.5 and 8.9 years higher compared to those with low levels of happiness and life satisfaction. In Cox models with 14 years of mortality follow-up, all-cause mortality risk was 82% higher (hazard ratio [HR]=1.82; 95% CI=1.59,2.08) in adults with little or no happiness, controlling for age, and 36% higher (HR=1.36; 95% CI=1.17,1.57) in adults with little/no happiness, controlling for sociodemographic, behavioral and health characteristics, when compared with adults reporting happiness all of the time. Mortality risk was 107% higher (HR=2.07; 95% CI=1.80,2.38) in adults who were very dissatisfied with their life, controlling for age, and 39% higher (HR=1.39; 95% CI=1.20,1.60) in adults who were very dissatisfied, controlling for all covariates, when compared with adults who were very satisfied.

Conclusions and Global Health Implications: Adults with higher happiness and life satisfaction levels had significantly higher life expectancy and lower all-cause mortality risks than those with lower happiness and satisfaction levels. These findings underscore the significance of addressing subjective well-being in the population as a strategy for reducing all-cause mortality.

Key words: • Inequalities • Disparities • Happiness • Life satisfaction • Life expectancy • Mortality • Longitudinal • Social determinants

 

Copyright © 2020 Lee and Singh. Published by Global Health and Education Projects, Inc. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0) which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work, first published in this journal, is properly cited.
Budaya Organisasi sebagai mediasi Hubungan Kepemimpinan dan Kinerja Karyawan
Authors: Wati Endang Setyo , Sarwoko Endi , Yuniarianto Agung
Published: July 2020

Tujuan penelitian untuk menguji secara empiris pengaruh kepemimpinan terhadap kinerja karyawan, dan menguji peran budaya organisasi sebaga mediasi hubungan kepemimpinan dengan kinerja karyawan. Menggunakan sampel sebanyak 90 karyawan PT. Ramayana Lestari Sentosa Malang, dengan metode Purposive Sampling. Data dikumpulkan menggunakan kuesioner dengan Skala Likert 5 poin, teknik analisis menggunakan Path Analysis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kepemimpinan berpengaruh langsung terhadap kinerja karyawan, budaya organisasi memiliki peran mediasi pengaruh kepemimpinan terhadap kinerja karyawan. Peningkatan kinerja karyawan dapat dicapai jika kepemimpinan mampu meningkatkan partisipasi, mengayoni, demokratis dan berorientasi pada tugas. Peneliti selanjutnya dapat menguji peran kepemimpinan dan budaya dalam membangun komitmen organisasi.
Macroeconomic Changes And Prices Stock In Real Estate And Property Firm
Authors: Mustikowati Rita Indah , Wilujeng Sri
Published: July 2020

This research was conducted to examine changes in macroeconomic conditions on stock prices in real estate and property companies. The aim of this research is to explain the changes in macroeconomic conditions on the stock prices of real estate and property companies. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling with a sample of 14 companies from 48 real estate and property companies listed on the JSX. The analysis technique used is multiple regression. Based on the results of the analysis, it was found that changes in macroeconomic conditions, namely inflation, had no positive effect on the stock prices of real estate and property companies. This is because the amount of demand for real estate and property will increase in accordance with population growth. Other findings show that the interest rate proxied from the BI Rate has a negative effect on the stock prices of real estate and property companies. Increased interest rates from the BI Rate will cause investors to be no longer interested in investing in the money market because it is considered more profitable to invest with high interest rates.
Racial Disparities of Black Americans Hospitalized for Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Spiewak Ted , Taefi Amir , Patel Shruti , Li Chin-Shang , Chak Eric
Published: July 2020

Background: Racial disparities have been reported in liver transplantation and chronic hepatitis C treatment outcomes. Determining causes of these disparities is important given the racially diverse American population and the economic burden associated with chronic liver disease. Methods: A retrospective study was performed among 463 patients diagnosed with cirrhosis admitted from (January 1, 2013 to January 1, 2018) to a tertiary care academic medical center. Patients were identified based on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) for cirrhosis or its complications. Demographic information, laboratory data, medical comorbidities, insurance and adherence to cirrhosis quality care indicators were recorded to determine their relationship to readmission rates and other healthcare outcomes. Results: A total of 463 individual patients with cirrhosis were identified including Whites (n=241), Hispanics (n=106), Blacks (n=50), Asian and Pacific Islander Americans (API, n=27) and Other (n=39). A significantly higher proportion of Blacks had Medicaid insurance compared to Whites (40% versus 20%, p=0.0002) and Blacks had lower median income than Whites ($45,710 versus $54,844, p=0.01). All groups received high quality cirrhosis care. Regarding healthcare outcomes, Black patients had the highest mean total hospital admissions (6.1±6.3, p=0.01) and the highest mean number of 30-day re-admissions (2.1±3.7, p=0.05) compared to all other racial groups. Multivariable proportional odds regression analysis showed that race was a statistically significant predictor of 90-day readmission (p=0.03). Conclusions: Black Americans hospitalized for complications of cirrhosis may experience significant disparities in healthcare outcomes compared to Whites despite high quality cirrhosis care. Socioeconomic factors may contribute to these disparities. Trial Registration: Not applicable.
Navigating complexity of child abuse through intuition and evidence-based guidelines: a mix-methods study among child and youth healthcare practitioners
Authors: Erisman Jetske Charlotte , de Sabbata Kevin , Zuiderent-Jerak Teun , Syurina Elena V
Published: July 2020

Background: Dutch child and youth health care (CYHC) practitioners monitor and assess the well-being of children. One of their main concerns is identifying cases of child abuse, which is an arduous and sensitive task. In these contexts, CYHC-practitioners use both evidence-based guidelines aimed at increasing the quality of care through rationalised decision-making, and intuition. These two practices are seen as being at odds with each other, yet empirical research has shown that both are necessary in healthcare. This study aims to unravel how intuition is perceived and used by Dutch CYHC-practitioners when identifying and working with cases of child abuse, and how this relates to their evidence-based guidelines.Methods: A sequential exploratory mixed-methods design: in-depth semi-structured interviews with CYHC-physicians focused on perceptions on intuition, which were followed by a survey amongst CYHC-practitioners on the recognition and use of the concept.Results: The majority of CYHC-practitioners recognise and use intuition in their daily work, stating that it is necessary in their profession. CYHC-practitioners use intuition to 1) sense that something is ‘off’, 2) differentiate between ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’, 3) assess risks, 4) weigh secondary information and 5) communicate with parents. At the same time, they warn of its dangers, as it may lead to ‘tunnel vision’ and false accusations. Conclusion: Intuition is experienced as an integral part of the work of CYHC-practitioners. It is understood as particularly useful in cases of child abuse, which are inherently complex, as signs and evidence of abuse are often hidden, subtle and unique in each case. CYHC-practitioners use intuition to manage and navigate this complexity. There is an opportunity for guidelines to support reflection and intuition as a ‘good care’ practice.
Mechanism of LIN28B in trophoblastic villous cells of unexplained recurrent abortion
Authors: Huang QiaoYao , Niu YanRu , Song LiJun , Huang JinZhi , Wang Chenxi , ma tianzhong
Published: July 2020

Background: LIN28B plays an important role in early embryonic development, but its role in villous trophoblast implantation and differentiation remains unknown. To verify the role of LIN28B in trophoblastic villous tissue and cells from women with URSA(unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion)and artificial termination of pregnancy (negative control, NC). Methods:The Lin28b gene and its protein expression level were detected with real-time quantitative PCR, Western immunoblotting analysis, and immunocytochemistry. The gene was also overexpressed in chorionic villous cell lines (HTR-8/SVneo and BeWo) to examine its effect on trophoblast function.Results: The expression of LIN28B mRNA and protein of URSA villi was lower than that in the NC group. At the cellular level, overexpression of LIN28B enhanced cellular migration, and invasion, and inhibited apoptosis. LIN28B may inhibit apoptosis by promoting Akt phosphorylation and by inhibiting Bad phosphorylation and Bcl-2 expression. In addition, LIN28B inhibited cell fusion and reduced cellular syncytia. Conclusions: LIN28B can inhibit cell proliferation, invasion and migration in vitro, and promote apoptosis and fusion. The low expression of LIN28B in URSA villous trophoblast cells may be one of the causes of abortion. The role of LIN28B in villous trophoblasts needs further study.
Intentional Carbofuran Poisoning in 7 dogs
Authors: Pivariu Dalma , Oros Adrian Nechita , Tabaran Flaviu , Gal Adrian , Martonos Cristian , Nagy Andras Laszlo
Published: July 2020

Background: Carbofuran is a widely used broad-spectrum pesticide that, despite strict regulation and being banned for more than a decade, is still encountered in cases of intentional poisoning in dogs and wildlife. The objective of the study was to provide a complete and detailed description of the pathological, histological and toxicological findings of 7 cases of intentional carbofuran poisoning in dogs.

Results: In this retrospective study, 7 cases of carbofuran intoxication recorded from July 2015 to June 2017 were analyzed. Following complete history recording, all cases were examined by complete necropsy and histopathology. Carbofuran intoxication was confirmed in all cases by gas chromatography. The postmortem examination revealed extensive hemorrhaging and congestion located mainly within the respiratory, nervous and cardiovascular systems, accompanied by degeneration and necrosis within the lungs, heart, and kidneys.

Conclusions: Although carbamates have been banned in the European Union, carbamate poisoning is still frequently encountered, especially in wild animals. This paper will contribute to a better understanding of the occurrence and pathogenesis of acute carbofuran exposure in dogs and contribute some peculiar pathological features of this type of poisoning to the current literature.
El Niño Southern Oscillation as an early warning tool for dengue outbreak in India
Authors: Pramanik Malay K. , Singh Poonam , Kumar Gaurav , Ojha Vijay Prakash , Dhiman Ramesh C.
Published: July 2020

Background: Dengue is rapidly expanding climate-sensitive mosquito-borne disease worldwide. Outbreaks of dengue occur in various parts of India as well but there is no tool to provide early warning. The current study was, therefore, undertaken to find out the link between El Niño, precipitation, and dengue cases, which could help in early preparedness for control of dengue.Methods: Data on Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) was extracted from CPC-IRI (USA) while the data on monthly rainfall was procured from India Meteorological Department. Data on annual dengue cases was taken from the website of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP). Correlation analysis was used to analyse the relationship between seasonal positive ONI, rainfall index and dengue case index based on past 20 years’ state-level data. The dengue case index representing ‘relative deviation from mean’ was correlated to the three months average ONI. The computed r values of dengue case index and positive ONI were further interpreted using GIS software to generate spatial correlation map. The short-term (1 year) prediction of dengue probability map has been prepared based on phase-wise (El Niño, La Niña, and Neutral) 20 years averaged ONI.Results: A high correlation between positive ONI and dengue incidence was found, particularly in the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Delhi, Daman and Diu. On the other hand, the states like Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Orissa, and Andhra Pradesh shown negative correlation between summer El Niño and dengue incidence. Two –three month lag was found between monthly ‘rainfall index’ and dengue cases at local-scale analysis.Conclusion: The generated map signifies the spatial correlation between positive ONI and dengue case index, indicating positive correlation in the central part, while negative correlation in some coastal, northern, and north-eastern part of India. The findings offer a tool for early preparedness for undertaking intervention measures against dengue by the national programme at state level. For further improvement of results, study at micro-scale (district) for finding month-wise association with Indian Ocean Dipole and local weather variables is desired for better explanation of dengue outbreaks in the states with ‘no association’.
Curiouser and curiouser: Meta-analysis of venom toxicity of 160 lethal ophidian species shows extraordinary variance, and falsifies common assumptions, providing a basis for estimating human lethal doses.
Authors: Hanley Brian
Published: July 2020

Background: This is the first meta-analysis to characterize intra-ophidian-species variation in whole venom. The largest meta-analysis possible at this time, it encompasses all known publicly available records of animal lethality studies over the past 100 years. These results are not artifacts of resistant test-animal-species, and show orders of magnitude beyond the 1.6 logs (40 fold change) range of lethal dose documented in literature between amphibians, lizards and mice. Methods: 1005 lethal dose study results for 160 of the most lethal venomous ophidian species in the world are analyzed. Results: LDLo does not differentiate from LD50 across studies, indicating the true range of toxicity is probably larger. The belief that for route of inoculation, IC<IV<IP<IM<SC has good support (R2 = 0.86). However, 8% of SC inoculations were the lowest (most toxic) dose. Within the mouse test species, for one route of inoculation, the mean LD range is 0.94 logs (8.89 fold change), and widest LD range is 2.15 logs (141 fold change, N = 26). Within 1 test species, for multiple routes of inoculation, mean LD range is 2.0 logs (98.97 fold change), and the widest LD range is 3.6 logs (4,150 fold change). For all test species and all routes of inoculation, the mean LD range is 2.97 logs (936.59 fold change) and widest LD range is 4.76 logs (57,471 fold change). The strongest correlate for range of lethal dose results is the number of studies (R2 = 0.56). The average variance appears to follow a power law from single test species and route, to single test species and multiple routes, to all test species and all routes, as a factor of 10 multiple for each. Conclusions: Scientists working with humans should use combined LDLo and LD50 meta-datasets for all data and calculate: mean, median, minimum, range, and standard deviations. Standard deviation multiples, or at minimum, standard error, will provide desired coverage. For estimating LD50 range and minimum lethal dose for species with little data, I recommend curating a meta-dataset of related snakes, and computational research to strengthen this.
Development of the squamate naso-palatal complex: detailed 3D analysis of the vomeronasal organ and nasal cavity in the brown anole Anolis sagrei (Squamata: Iguania)
Authors: Kaczmarek Paweł , Janiszewska Katarzyna , Metscher Brian , Rupik Weronika
Published: July 2020

Background Despite the diverse morphology of the adult squamate naso-palatal complex – consisting of the nasal cavity, vomeronasal organ (VNO), choanal groove, lacrimal duct and superficial palate – little is known about the embryology of these structures. Moreover, there are no comprehensive studies concerning development of the nasal cavity and VNO in relation to the superficial palate. In this investigation, we used X-ray microtomography and histological sections to describe embryonic development of the naso-palatal complex of iguanian lizard, the brown anole ( Anolis sagrei ). The purpose of the study was to describe the mechanism of formation of adult morphology in this species, which combines the peculiar anole features with typical iguanian conditions. Considering the uncertain phylogenetic position of the Iguania within Squamata, embryological data and future comparative studies may shed new light on the evolution of this large squamate clade. Results Development of the naso-palatal complex was divided into three phases: early, middle and late. In the early developmental phase, the vomeronasal pit originates from medial outpocketing of the nasal pit, when the facial prominences are weakly developed. In the middle developmental phase, the following events can be noted: the formation of the frontonasal mass, separation of the vestibulum, appearance of the lacrimal duct, and formation of the choanal groove, which leads to separation of the VNO from the nasal cavity. In late development, the nasal cavity and the VNO attain their adult morphology. The lacrimal duct establishes an extensive connection with the choanal groove, which eventually becomes largely separated from the oral cavity. Conclusions Unlike in other tetrapods, the primordium of the lacrimal duct in the brown anole develops largely beyond the nasolacrimal groove. In contrast to previous studies on squamates, the maxillary prominence is found to participate in the initial fusion with the frontonasal mass. Moreover, formation of the choanal groove occurs due to the fusion of the vomerine cushion to the subconchal fold, rather than to the choanal fold. The loss or significant reduction of the lateral nasal concha is secondary. Some features of anole adult morphology, such as the closure of the choanal groove, may constitute adaptations to vomeronasal chemoreception.
Asymmetrical fatiguing of the gluteus maximus muscles in the elite short-track female skaters.
Authors: Konieczny Mariusz , Pakosz Paweł , Witkowski Mateusz
Published: July 2020

Background According to research, fast skating on short distances increases functional asymmetry of leg muscles. As has been proven in many sporting disciplines, this asymmetry can increase the risk of injury. The aim of the study was to analyze the level of right and left myolectrical manifestations of fatigue asymmetry of gluteus maximus muscle in elite skaters on a short track and to compare this phenomenon to a control group. The muscles were chosen deliberately, due to their influence in maintaining the right position during training on ice.Methods The experiment compared a group of eight members of the Polish Women’s National Team in short track with a group of eight non-training people. The subjects did the Biering-Sorensen test, in which sEMG (surface electromyography) signal frequency was measured in the gluteus maximus muscles during an isometric contraction. Myolectrical manifestations of fatigue slopes were analyzed with a ANOVA with repeated measures. In the skaters, the myolectrical manifestations of fatigue differed between the right and the left gluteus maximus muscles. All the skaters had higher myolectrical manifestations of fatigue in the right leg. This phenomenon was not observed in the non-training subjects, who on average had similar myolectrical manifestations of fatigue in both legs. Results Results showed that the right and the left muscles of the skaters in the experimental group differed in myolectrical manifestations of fatigue, but this difference was non-significant in the control group.The subjects from the two groups did not differ in the myolectrical manifestations of fatigue of the left muscle, they did in the myolectrical manifestations of fatigue of the right muscle. The elite speed-track skaters had higher myolectrical manifestations of fatigue in the right muscle than the non-training subjects.Conclusions Training should thus be planned in a way that minimizes the risk of causing muscle myolectrical manifestations of fatigue asymmetry in skaters despite the typically asymmetrical muscle work during training on ice and competition, thus new training protocols should be developed or considered to decrease that asymmetry.Trial registration The tests were previously approved by the Bioethical Commission of the Chamber of Physicians in Opole. (Resolution No. 235 of 13 December 2016).
Comparison of End-to-Side Hand-Sewn and Side-to-Side Stapled Cervical Esophagogastric Anastomosis in Patients with Lower Thoracic Esophageal Cancer Undergoing Transhiatal Esophagectomy: An Iranian Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Rasihashemi Seyed Ziaeddin , Ramouz Ali , Beheshtirouy Samad , Amini Hassan
Published: July 2020

Background: Controversies in terms of efficacy and postoperative advantages surround stapled esophagogastric anastomosis compared with the hand-sewn technique as a treatment for patients with esophageal cancer. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of hand-sewn end-to-side esophago-gastrostomy and side-to-side stapled cervical esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy for the aforementioned patients.Methods: This retrospective cohort study involved examining the medical records of 433 patients who underwent transhiatal esophagectomy for esophageal cancer from March 2010 to March 2016. All the patients were operated using end-to-side hand-sewn esophago-gastrostomy and side-to-side stapled cervical esophagogastric anastomosis. 409 of the patients received a year’s worth of follow-up evaluations. All the cases were revisited in two weeks as well as in four, eight, and 12 months after surgery. The patients were assessed in terms of postoperative outcomes, including reflux symptoms, anastomotic leakage and stricture, and the need for anastomotic dilatation.Results: Hand-sewn anastomosis was carried out in 271 (62.5%) patients, whereas stapled anastomosis was performed in 162 (37.4%) patients. The mean operative times were 214.46±84.33 min and 250.55±43.31 min for the stapled and hand-sewn anastomosis groups, respectively (P = 0.028). The two groups showed no significant differences with respect to stays in intensive care units and hospitals. Postoperatively, 38 (14.67%) cases of anastomotic leakage were detected in the hand-sewn anastomosis group, with incidence being significantly higher than that in the stapled anastomosis group (8 cases or 5.33%; P = 0.002). Anastomotic stricture occurred less frequently in the patients who underwent stapled anastomosis (P = 0.004). Within the one-year follow-up period, the patients treated via hand-sewn anastomosis more frequently required anastomotic dilatation (P = 0.02).Conclusion: Side-to-side stapled cervical esophagogastric anastomosis may reduce operation times and decrease the rates of anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture, and anastomotic dilatation in patients with lower thoracic esophageal cancer undergoing transhiatal esophagectomy.
The effect of control measures on COVID-19 transmission in Italy: Comparison with Guangdong province in China
Authors: Liu Pei-Yu , He Sha , Rong Li-Bin , Tang San-Yi
Published: July 2020

Background: COVID-19 has spread all around the world. Italy is one of the worst affected countries in Europe. Although there is a trend of relief, the epidemic situation hasn’t stabilized yet. This study aims to investigate the dynamics of the disease spread in Italy and provide some suggestions on containing the epidemic. Methods: We compared Italy’s status at the outbreak stage and control measures with Guangdong Province in China by data observation and analysis. A modiﬁed autonomous SEIR model was used to study the COVID-19 epidemic and transmission potential during the early stage of the outbreak in Italy. We also utilized a time-dependent dynamic model to study the future disease dynamics in Italy. The impact of various non-pharmaceutical control measures on epidemic was investigated through uncertainty and sensitivity analyses. Results: The comparison of speciﬁc measures implemented in the two places and the time when the measures were initiated shows that the initial prevention and control actions in Italy were not sufﬁciently timely and effective. We estimated parameter values based on available cumulative data and calculated the basic reproduction number to be 4.32 before the national lockdown in Italy. Based on the estimated parameter values, we performed numerical simulations to predict the epidemic trend and evaluate the impact of contact limitation, detection and diagnosis, and individual behavior change due to media coverage on the epidemic. Conclusions: Italy was in a severe epidemic status and the control measures were not sufﬁciently timely and effective in the beginning. Non-pharmaceutical interventions, including contact restrictions and improvement of case recognition, play an important role in containing the COVID-19 epidemic. The effect of individual behavior changes due to media update of the outbreak cannot be ignored. For policy-makers, early and strict blockade measures, fast detection and improving media publicity are key to containing the epidemic.
Microencapsulation of cellular aggregates composed of differentiated insulin and glucagon-producing cells from human mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue.
Authors: Jara Claudia , Oyarzun-Ampuero Felipe , Carrión Flavio , González-Echeverría Esteban , Cappelli Claudio , Caviedes Pablo
Published: July 2020

Background: In type I diabetes mellitus (T1DM) pancreatic β cells are destroyed. Treatment entails exogenous insulin administration and strict diet control, yet optimal glycemic control is hardly attainable. Islet transplant could be an alternative in patients with poor glycemic control, but inefficient islet purification and autoimmune response of patients is still a challenge. For these reasons, it is necessary to explore new cellular sources and immunological isolation methods oriented to develop T1DM cell-based therapies. Aims: We postulate human adipose-derived stem cell (hASC) as an adequate source to generate pancreatic islet cells in vitro, and to produce islet-like structures. Furthermore, we propose microencapsulation of these aggregates as an immunological isolation strategy. Methods: hASC obtained from lipoaspirated fat tissue from human donors were differentiated in vitro to insulin (Ins) and glucagon (Gcg) producing cells. Then, insulin producing cells (IPC) and glucagon producing cells (GPC) were later cocultured in low adhesion conditions to form cellular aggregates, and later encapsulated in a sodium alginate polymer. Expression of pancreatic lineage markers and secretion of insulin or glucagon in vitro were analyzed. Results: The results show that multipotent hASC efficiently differentiate to IPC and GPC, and express pancreatic markers, including insulin or glucagon hormones which they secrete upon stimulation (5 fold for insulin in IPC, and 4 fold for glucagon, compared to undifferentiated cells. In turn, calculation of the Feret diameter and area of cellular aggregates revealed, finding mean diameters ~80 µm and 65 % of the aggregates reached 4000 µm2 at 72h of formation. IPC/GPC aggregates were then microencapsulated in sodium-alginate polymer microgels, which were found to be more stable when stabilized with Ba2+, yielding average diameters ~300 µm. Interestingly, Ba2+-microencapsulated aggregates respond to high external glucose with insulin secretion. Conclusions: The IPC/GPC differentiation process from hASC, followed by the generation of cellular aggregates that are later microencapsulated, could represent a possible treatment for T1DM.
Sports activity participation after curved periacetabular osteotomy for acetabular dysplasia
Authors: Takahashi Yoshiki , Takahira Naonobu , Uchiyama Katsufumi , Fukushima Kensuke , Moriya Mitsutoshi , Shibuya Manaka , Tsuda Kouji , Tozaki Kiyoshi , Kudo Sho , Kaneda Hiroaki , Sekita Junya , Takaso Masashi
Published: July 2020

Background: Curved periacetabular osteotomy (CPO) was developed to treat acetabular dysplasia. Given that CPO can improve physical function in the early post-operative period, patients might be able to participate in sports activities post-operatively. Therefore, this study examined the post-operative sports activity participation and characteristics of acetabular dysplasia patients who have undergone CPO.Methods: A total of 52 patients who underwent CPO for acetabular dysplasia were given a questionnaire on pre- and post-operative sports activities; 43 patients responded. We surveyed patients’ sports activities, satisfaction, and physical function. Patients were divided according to whether they participated in sports activities after CPO. Physical function was compared before and after CPO.Results: The pre- and post-operative sports activity participation rates were 55.8% and 72.1%, respectively. Patients mostly performed low-impact sports activities. Moreover, patients who participated in sports activities post-operatively had smaller pre-operative range of motion of hip flexion and returned to full weight bearing earlier.Conclusions: Among acetabular dysplasia patients who underwent CPO, 72.1% participated in sports activities post-operatively. Post-operatively, patients participated not only in low-impact sports activities, but also in high-impact ones. These findings might be useful for advising patients who are concerned about participating in sports activities after CPO.
Optimal regimens regimens based on PK/PD cutoff evaluation of ceftiofur against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae in swine
Authors: Sun Da , Mi Kun , Hao Haihong , Xie Shuyu , Chen Dongmei , Huang Lingli
Published: July 2020

Background Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae , formerly known as Haemophilus pleuropneumoniae , can cause pleuropneumoniae in pigs of different ages, leading to significant mortality. Ceftiofur was the first cephalosporin antibiotic used in animals that was effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. This study aimed to determine epidemiologic cutoff value (ECV), and pharmacodynamic-pharmacokinetic cutoff. Establishing Clinical breakpoint of ceftiofur against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae based on the pharmacodynamic-pharmacokinetic cutoff. Results The epidemiologic cutoff value was 0.125 μg/mL. The results of the pharmacodynamic study showed that the MICs of BW39 were 0.5 μg/mL and 1 μg/mL under in vitro and ex-vivo conditions, respectively, and the minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) under in vitro and ex vivo conditions were both 1 μg/mL. The time-killing profiles of ceftiofur against BW39 were time-dependent with a partly concentration-dependent pattern. According to the inhibitory sigmoid E max model, the AUC 24 h /MIC values for the bacteriostatic, bactericidal, and elimination effects in serum were 45.73, 63.83, and 69.04 h for healthy pigs, respectively. Based on the Monte Carlo simulation, the CO PD was calculated as 2 μg/mL, and the optimized dosage regimen of ceftiofur against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae to achieve bacteriostatic, bactericidal, and elimination effects over 24 h was 2.13, 2.97, and 3.42 mg/kg for the 50% target attainment rate (TAR) and 2.47, 3.21, and 3.70 mg/kg for the 90% TAR, respectively. Conclusions In conclusion, we reveal the EOFF and PK/PD cutoff values of ceftiofur against A. pleuropneumoniae in piglets. However, with the paucity of clinical data for ceftiofur to establish a clinical cutoff against A. pleuropneumoniae, the PK/PD cutoff value of 2 μg/mL will be recommended as surrogate. According to the PK/PD data and the MIC distribution in China, the single bactericidal dose was 3.21 mg/kg for the 90% target, which would be more able to cure Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and avoid the emergence of resistance for clinical ceftiofur use of ceftiofur in piglet.
Temporal dynamics of the fecal microbiota in veal calves in a 6-month field trial
Authors: Massot Méril , Haenni Marisa , Nguyen Thu Thuy , Madec Jean-Yves , Mentré France , Denamur Erick
Published: July 2020

Background Little is known about gut maturation of calves in veal farms, in which animals are confined under intensive-farming conditions and the administration of collective antibiotic treatment in feed is common. We conducted a field study on 45 calves starting seven days after their arrival in three veal farms. We collected monthly fecal samples over six months and performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing and quantitative PCR of Escherichia coli to follow the dynamics of their fecal microbiota, including that of their commensal E. coli populations. We used mixed-effect models to characterize the dynamics of α-diversity indices and numbers of E. coli. We searched for an effect of collective antibiotic treatments on the estimated parameters of these models. On two farms, we searched for associations between recommended daily doses of milk powder and bacterial abundance. Results Time had a significant effect on microbiota composition. There was high heterogeneity between calves upon their arrival at the farms, followed by an increase in similarity, starting at the end of the first month. From the second month, 16 genera were detected at each sampling in all calves until the end of fattening, and represented a large fraction of their microbiota. Shannon index showed a two-phase increase, the pivotal shift occurring at the end of the first month. Calves receiving antibiotics had a less diverse microbiota and a smaller number of E. coli during the treatment and in the 15 days following it than unexposed calves, although these effects were limited in intensity. There were moderate to strong positive associations between the dose of milk powder and the relative abundances of four genera and the number of E. coli.Conclusions This observational study shows early homogenization of the developing microbiota of calves reared under intensive-farming conditions and positive associations between the dose of milk powder and four genera of their microbiota. It suggests that administration of collective antibiotic treatment results in a limited reduction of diversity and size of the E. coli population and highlights the need for additional work to fully understand the impact of antibiotic treatment in the context of the veal industry.
The psychometric properties of the Persian Menopause Rating Scale
Authors: Jahangiry Leila , Parviz Robabeh , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Khazaee-Pool Maryam , Ponnet Koen
Published: July 2020

Background: To measure the severity of menopausal complaints and determine the pattern of menopausal symptoms, a valid and reliable instrument is needed in women’s healthcare. The Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) is one of the best-known tools in response to the lack of standardized scales. The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the MRS in an Iranian example. Methods: Participants were randomly selected from women referred to healthcare centers in Miandoab, West Azerbaijan, Iran. A total of 330 questionnaires were completed (response rate of 96.9%). Two samples were considered for analysis in the validation process. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted on the first sample (n1 =165), and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was done using a second study sample (n2 = 165). The psychometric properties process was concluded with assessment of internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Results: The EFA with Principal Component Analysis extracted three factors explaining 75.47% cumulative variance. The CFA confirmed a three-factor structure of the 11-items MRS. All fit indices proved to be satisfactory. The relative chi-square (χ2/df) was 3.686 (p < .001). The Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) of the model was .04 (90% CI = .105 – .150). All comparative indices of the model, including the Comparative Fit Index, Normed Fit Index, and Relative Fit Index, were more than .80 (.90, .87, and .80, respectively). For the overall scale, Cronbach’s alpha was .931, whereas the alpha for the subscales ranged from 0.705-0.950. The intraclass correlation was .91 (95% CI = .89-.93), p < 0.001. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that the Persian model of the MRS is a valid and reliable scale. As a screening tool, the Persian MRS could be used to identify the pattern of symptoms among menopausal, premenopausal, and postmenopausal women to care for and educate them on how to identify and treat the symptoms.
Urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and urine output as predictors of the successful discontinuation of continuous renal replacement therapy in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury
Authors: Thomsen Josefine , Sprogøe Ulrik , Toft Palle
Published: July 2020

Background: Continuous renal replacement therapy (CCRT) is a frequently used modality for the support of intensive care patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). Nevertheless, there are no objective criteria for the discontinuation of CRRT. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) alone or in combination with urine output could be used as a diagnostic test for renal function recovery in ICU patients on CRRT.Methods: This was a single-centre prospective observational study including patients with acute kidney failure needing CRRT. Sixty-nine patients were enrolled, and 54 completed the study. Of the 54 patients, 22 recovered renal function (REC), defined as dialysis independency at 72 hours from discontinuation, while 32 patients did not (NREC). Urine NGAL was measured at 0, 6, 12, and 24 hours after CRRT discontinuation. The cumulated urine output was measured for 24 hours prior to discontinuation and at 6, 12, and 24 hours after discontinuation. Missing uNGAL values were calculated by interpolation. The Youden’s index was used to calculate cut-off values in order to define uNGAL and urine output single variable and 2-variable diagnostic tests with the optimum prediction of successful CRRT discontinuation. Results: Baseline characteristics at CRRT initiation were similar between groups. Compared to the NREC group, the REC group had significantly higher urine output (p<0.0001) and lower uNGAL (p<0.001) at all time points, except for uNGAL at 24 hours (p<0.24). The best uNGAL predictor for successful CRRT discontinuation was uNGAL at 6 hours after discontinuation (predictive value 80%). The best single predictor was cumulated urine output 24 hours before discontinuation (predictive value 85%). The combinations of uNGAL at 6 hours (cut-off 1650 µg/L) with cumulated urine output 24 hours prior to discontinuation (cut-off 210 ml) proved to be the superior tests (using either “or” or “and”), with predictive values of 93% (successful CRRT discontinuation) and 92% (dialysis dependency).Conclusions: With a predictive value of 93%, the combination of uNGAL at 6 hours after and the cumulated urine output 24 hours prior to CRRT cessation proved to be the best diagnostic test for successful CRRT discontinuation in ICU patients.Clinical trial registration: N/A
Construction of prognostic predictor by comprehensive analyzing alternative splicing events for Colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Qu Yaqi , Chen Yujia , Zhang Le , Tian Lifei
Published: July 2020

Background: Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is one of the most common malignant tumors, with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Reliable prognostic biomarkers are needed to guide clinical practice. Methods: Comprehensive gene expression with alternative splicing (AS) profiles for each patient were downloaded using the SpliceSeq database from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Cox regression analysis was conducted to screen for prognostic AS events. The R package limma was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between normal and tumor samples in the COAD cohort. A Venn plot analysis was performed between DEGs and prognostic AS events, and the DEGs that co-occurred with prognostic AS events (DEGAS) were identified. The top 30 most-connected DEGAS in protein–protein interaction analysis were identified through Cox proportional hazards regression to establish prognostic models. Results: In total, 350 patients were included in the study. A total of 22,451 AS events were detected, of which 2,004 from 1,439 genes were significantly associated with survival time. By overlapping these 1,439 genes with 6,455 DEGs, 211 DEGs with AS events were identified. After construction of the protein–protein interaction network, the top 30 hub genes were included in a multivariate analysis. Finally, a risk score based on 12 genes associated with overall survival was established (P < 0.05). The area under the curve was 0.782. The risk score was an independent predictor (P < 0.001). Conclusions: By exploring survival-associated AS events, a powerful prognostic predictor consisting of 12 DEGAS was built. This study aims to propose a novel method to provide treatment targets for COAD and guide clinical practice in the future.