bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recommendations to improve physical activity prescription for the cystic fibrosis population: an Irish perspective
Authors: Hurley Nicola , Kehoe Bróna , McCaffrey Noel , Redmond Karen , Cullen Lydia , Moyna Niall M.
Published: November 2020

Background

Physical activity (PA) is a well-established therapeutic modality for the maintenance and improvement of long-term health in cystic fibrosis (CF). Healthcare professionals (HCP) are considered credible and well-placed messengers for the delivery of PA advice. Limited research exists investigating the extent of PA prescription within CF care. This study aimed to identify Irish HCP i) knowledge and practice of, and ii) motivators and barriers to PA prescription, and iii) proposed strategies to optimize PA promotion and prescription in CF populations.

Methods

HCP from six designated CF centres in Ireland and members of the national physiotherapy CF clinical interest group were invited to participate. Following an expression of interest, each HCP (n = 81) received an email containing the plain language statement and link to the online survey. 48 HCP (physiotherapists n = 24, other n = 24) completed the 30-item investigator-developed survey, which included multiple choice single answer, matrix style and open-ended questions.

Results

Most HCP (81%) acknowledged that discussing PA with CF patients was part of their professional role. Almost all physiotherapists (95%) reported having sufficient knowledge regarding PA prescription, compared to 17% of other HCP. All physiotherapists reported discussing PA at every patient interaction, with 81% employing the current consensus guidelines, compared to 33 and 5% of other HCP, respectively. Among the most common barriers reported by HCP to recommending PA to their CF patients were; lack of motivation and compliance among patients to adhere to PA advice, limited availability of PA programmes to refer their patients to, limited time with patients during clinic visits and a lack of knowledge regarding PA prescription for CF care. Three-quarters of HCP reported a need to improve PA services for CF patients in Ireland.

Conclusion

As people with CF are living longer, it is imperative that HCP are expanding their scope of practice to include discussions around PA at every patient visit. Formal educational opportunities in the form of continuing professional development programmes are warranted for CF HCP to optimize long-term patient management and outcomes. There is also a need to develop patient-centered and evidence-based PA programmes underpinned by theories of behaviour change to enhance motivation and compliance among CF patients.
Functional genomics of AP-2α and AP-2γ in cancers: in silico study
Authors: Kołat Damian , Kałuzińska Żaneta , Orzechowska Magdalena , Bednarek Andrzej K. , Płuciennik Elżbieta
Published: November 2020

Background

Among all causes of death, cancer is the most prevalent and is only outpaced by cardiovascular diseases. Molecular theory of carcinogenesis states that apoptosis and proliferation are regulated by groups of tumor suppressors or oncogenes. Transcription factors are example of proteins comprising representatives of both cancer-related groups. Exemplary family of transcription factors which exhibits dualism of function is Activating enhancer-binding Protein 2 (AP-2). Scientific reports concerning their function in carcinogenesis depend on particular family member and/or tumor type which proves the issue to be unsolved. Therefore, the present study examines role of the best-described AP-2 representatives, AP-2α and AP-2γ, through ontological analysis of their target genes and investigation what processes are differentially regulated in 21 cancers using samples deposited in Genomic Data Analysis Center (GDAC) Firehose.

Methods

Expression data with clinical annotation was collected from TCGA-dedicated repository GDAC Firehose. Transcription factor targets were obtained from Gene Transcription Regulation Database (GTRD), TRANScription FACtor database (TRANSFAC) and Transcriptional Regulatory Relationships Unraveled by Sentence-based Text mining (TRRUST). Monocle3 R package was used for global samples profiling while Protein ANalysis THrough Evolutionary Relationships (PANTHER) tool was used to perform gene ontology analysis.

Results

With RNA-seq data and Monocle3 or PANTHER tools we outlined differences in many processes and signaling pathways, separating tumor from normal tissues or tumors from each other. Unexpectedly, a number of alterations in basal-like breast cancer were identified that distinguished it from other subtypes, which could bring future clinical benefits.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that while the AP-2α/γ role remains ambiguous, their activity is based on processes that underlie the cancer hallmarks and their expression could have potential in diagnosis of selected tumors.
Changing malaria fever test positivity among paediatric admissions to Tororo district hospital, Uganda 2012–2019
Authors: Mpimbaza Arthur , Sserwanga Asadu , Rutazaana Damian , Kapisi James , Walemwa Richard , Suiyanka Laurissa , Kyalo David , Kamya Moses , Opigo Jimmy , Snow Robert W.
Published: November 2020

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) promotes long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) and indoor residual house-spraying (IRS) for malaria control in endemic countries. However, long-term impact data of vector control interventions is rarely measured empirically.

Methods

Surveillance data was collected from paediatric admissions at Tororo district hospital for the period January 2012 to December 2019, during which LLIN and IRS campaigns were implemented in the district. Malaria test positivity rate (TPR) among febrile admissions aged 1 month to 14 years was aggregated at baseline and three intervention periods (first LLIN campaign; Bendiocarb IRS; and Actellic IRS + second LLIN campaign) and compared using before-and-after analysis. Interrupted time-series analysis (ITSA) was used to determine the effect of IRS (Bendiocarb + Actellic) with the second LLIN campaign on monthly TPR compared to the combined baseline and first LLIN campaign periods controlling for age, rainfall, type of malaria test performed. The mean and median ages were examined between intervention intervals and as trend since January 2012.

Results

Among 28,049 febrile admissions between January 2012 and December 2019, TPR decreased from 60% at baseline (January 2012–October 2013) to 31% during the final period of Actellic IRS and LLIN (June 2016–December 2019). Comparing intervention intervals to the baseline TPR (60.3%), TPR was higher during the first LLIN period (67.3%, difference 7.0%; 95% CI 5.2%, 8.8%, p < 0.001), and lower during the Bendiocarb IRS (43.5%, difference − 16.8%; 95% CI − 18.7%, − 14.9%) and Actellic IRS (31.3%, difference − 29.0%; 95% CI − 30.3%, − 27.6%, p < 0.001) periods. ITSA confirmed a significant decrease in the level and trend of TPR during the IRS (Bendicarb + Actellic) with the second LLIN period compared to the pre-IRS (baseline + first LLIN) period. The age of children with positive test results significantly increased with time from a mean of 24 months at baseline to 39 months during the final IRS and LLIN period.

Conclusion

IRS can have a dramatic impact on hospital paediatric admissions harbouring malaria infection. The sustained expansion of effective vector control leads to an increase in the age of malaria positive febrile paediatric admissions. However, despite large reductions, malaria test-positive admissions continued to be concentrated in children aged under five years. Despite high coverage of IRS and LLIN, these vector control measures failed to interrupt transmission in Tororo district. Using simple, cost-effective hospital surveillance, it is possible to monitor the public health impacts of IRS in combination with LLIN.
Dysregulated PDGFR alpha expression and novel somatic mutations in colorectal cancer: association to RAS wild type status and tumor size
Authors: Ben Jemii Nadia , Tounsi-Kettiti Haifa , Yaiche Hamza , Mezghanni Najla , Jaballah Gabteni Amira , Fehri Emna , Ben Fayala Chayma , Abdelhak Sonia , Boubaker Samir
Published: November 2020

Background

Platelet derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) has been considered as a relevant factor in tumor proliferation, angiogenesis and metastatic dissemination. It was a target of tyrosine kinase (TK) inhibitors emerged in the therapy of diverse cancers. In colorectal cancer, the commonly used therapy is anti-epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR). However, both RAS mutated and a subgroup of RAS wild type patients resist to such therapy. The aim of this study is to investigate PDGFRα protein expression and mutational status in colorectal adenocarcinoma and their association with clinicopathological features and molecular RAS status to provide useful information for the identification of an effective biomarker that might be implicated in prognosis and treatment prediction.

Methods

Our study enrolled 103 formalin fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) colorectal adenocarcinoma. PDGFRα expression was investigated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Hotspot exon 18 of PDGFRA was studied by PCR followed by Sanger sequencing and RAS status was determined by real time quantitative PCR. Thirteen normal colon tissues were used as negative controls.

Results

PDGFRα staining was detected in the cytoplasm of all tissues. Low expression was observed in all normal colon mucosa. In adenocarcinoma, 45% (45/100) of cases showed PDGFRα overexpression. This overexpression was significantly associated with mutations in exon 18 (P = 0.024), RAS wild type status (P < 10–3), tumor diameter (P = 0.048), whereas there was no association with tumor side (P = 0.13) and other clinicopathological features.

Conclusion

Overexpression of PDGFRα in adenocarcinoma suggests its potential role in tumor cells growth and invasion. The association between PDGFRα overexpression in both tumor and stromal adenocarcinoma cells with RAS wild type status suggests its potential role in anti-EGFR therapy resistance and the relevance of using it as specific or adjuvant therapeutic target.
Validation of novel patient-centred juvenile idiopathic arthritis-specific patient-reported outcome and experience measures (PROMs/PREMs)
Authors: Lunt Laura E. , Shoop-Worrall Stephanie , Smith Nicola , Cleary Gavin , McDonagh Janet , Smith Andrew D. , Thomson Wendy , McErlane Flora
Published: November 2020

Background

Measuring the outcomes that matter to children and young people (CYP) with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), is a necessary precursor to patient-centred improvements in quality of clinical care. We present a two-centre validation of novel JIA patient-reported outcome and experience measures (PROM and PREM) developed as part of the CAPTURE-JIA project.

Methods

CYP with JIA were recruited from paediatric rheumatology clinics, completing the CAPTURE-JIA PROM and PREM, CHAQ and CHU 9D. A subset participated in face-to-face interviews and completed the PROM/PREM 1 week later. The OMERACT filter was applied and the three domains of validation assessed. Truth assessments included cognitive interviewing, sensitivity analysis and Spearman’s correlations. Discrimination assessments included specificity and reliability testing. Feasibility was assessed using time to form completion and proportion of missing data.

Results

Eighty-two CYP and their families were recruited; ten cognitive interviews and fifteen PROM/PREM test/retests were conducted. Truth: CYP and parents understood the PROM/PREM and felt important areas were covered. PROM criteria had high sensitivities (> 70%) against similar items on the CHU 9D, with the exception of fatigue (58%). Correlations between similar PROM and CHU 9D criteria were moderate to very strong (coefficients 0.40–0.82.) Discrimination: high specificities (> 70%) on corresponding PROM and CHU 9D domains. Feasibility: median completion times for PROM 60 s (IQR 38–75) and PREM 49 s (IQR 30–60) respectively.

Conclusion

The CAPTURE-JIA PROM and PREM are valid and feasible in UK paediatric rheumatology clinics. Embedding routine collection into clinical care would be a major step towards improving quality of care.
Assessing COVID-19 through the lens of health systems’ preparedness: time for a change
Authors: El Bcheraoui Charbel , Weishaar Heide , Pozo-Martin Francisco , Hanefeld Johanna
Published: November 2020

The last months have left no-one in doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic is exerting enormous pressure on health systems around the world, bringing to light the sub-optimal resilience of even those classified as high-performing. This makes us re-think the extent to which we are using the appropriate metrics in evaluating health systems which, in the case of this pandemic, might have masked how unprepared some countries were. It also makes us reflect on the strength of our solidarity as a global community, as we observe that global health protection remains, as this pandemic shows, focused on protecting high income countries from public health threats originating in low and middle income countries. To change this course, and in times like this, all nations should come together under one umbrella to respond to the pandemic by sharing intellectual, human, and material resources. In order to work towards stronger and better prepared health systems, improved and resilience-relevant metrics are needed. Further, a new model of development assistance for health, one that is focused on stronger and more resilient health systems, should be the world’s top priority.
Restorative treatment in a case of amelogenesis imperfecta and 9-year follow-up: a case report
Authors: Sabandal Martin M. I. , Dammaschke Till , Schäfer Edgar
Published: November 2020

Background

Amelogenesis imperfecta is a hereditary malformation showing various manifestations regarding enamel dysplasia. This case report shows a 9-year follow-up after restorative treatment of a 16-year old female patient affected by a hypoplastic type of amelogenesis imperfecta. The caries-free, hypersensitive teeth of the patient were restored by direct dentin adhesive composite restorations performed in total etch technique.

Case presentation

After rehabilitation the patient reported a marked improvement of the mastication ability and quality of life especially during food intake. Accumulation of plaque was reduced and the ability to perform adequate oral hygiene was improved. During follow-up of 9 years recurring secondary caries and debonding of fillings were recognized and retreated.

Conclusions

The retrospective assessment exhibits that the performed restorative treatment prolonged the time until further treatment has to be considered, such as prosthetic treatment.
Does subcutaneous administration of recombinant human erythropoietin increase thrombotic events in total hip arthroplasty? A prospective thrombelastography analysis
Authors: Ruan Ru-xin , Bai Chao-wen , Zhang Le , Huang Chao-ran , Pan Sheng , Zhang Xing-chen , Zhu Zheng-ya , Zheng Xin , Guo Kai-jin
Published: November 2020

Background

Anemia is one of severe complications in the perioperative period of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Erythropoietin (EPO) has been considered to improve patients’ anemia state, but its efficiency and safety remains controversial.

Methods

A total of 152 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty from January 2017 to March 2019 were randomized to 2 groups. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHu-EPO) group was treated with rHu-EPO subcutaneous injection 10000 IU after operation and once daily in the next week, while control group was treated with none extra treatment. Routine hematologic examination and thrombelastography (TEG) performed at different time point respectively. Doppler ultrasound for bilateral lower limbs was performed 1 day before surgery and 7 days after surgery. Auxiliary examination outcomes, blood transfusions outcomes, and postoperative complications were recorded as assessment indicators.

Results

The difference in the relevant indexes of traditional coagulation and TEG values between two groups were not significantly. No significant difference was observed in the incidence of thromboembolism events and other complications between two groups during postoperative period. The amount of intraoperative blood loss was similar between the two groups. However, the postoperative use and dosage of allogeneic blood in the rHu-EPO group were lower than those in the control group. The hemoglobin and hematocrit level in the rHu-EPO group were higher than that in the control group after surgery.

Conclusion

Postoperative subcutaneous injection of rHu-EPO can improve hematological anemia-related parameters, reduce the use and dosage of allogeneic blood transfusions (ABTs), and has no significant influence on the formation of thrombosis and other complications in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty in short term.
Professionals’ perspectives on factors within primary mental health services that can affect pathways to involuntary psychiatric admissions
Authors: Wormdahl Irene , Husum Tonje Lossius , Rugkåsa Jorun , Rise Marit B.
Published: November 2020

Background

Reducing involuntary psychiatric admissions has been
on the international human rights and health policy agenda for years. Despite
the last decades’ shift towards more services for adults with severe mental
illness being provided in the community, most research on how to reduce involuntary
admissions has been conducted at secondary health care level. Research from the primary health care level is largely lacking. The
aim of this study was to explore mental health professionals’ experiences with
factors within primary mental health services that might increase the risk of involuntary
psychiatric admissions of adults, and their views on how such admissions might
be avoided.

Methods

Qualitative semi-structured interviews with thirty-two
mental health professionals from five Norwegian municipalities. Data were analysed
according to the Systematic Text Condensation method.

Results

Within primary mental health care professionals experienced that a number of factors could increase the risk of involuntary psychiatric admissions. Insufficient time and flexibility in long-term follow-up, limited resources, none or arbitrary use of crisis plans, lack of tailored housing, few employment opportunities, little diversity in activities offered, limited opportunities for voluntary admissions, inadequate collaboration between services and lack of competence were some of the factors mentioned to increase the risk of involuntary psychiatric admissions. Several suggestions on how involuntary psychiatric admissions might be avoided were put forward.

Conclusions

Mental health professionals within primary mental
health care experienced that their services might play an active part in
preventing the use of involuntary psychiatric admissions, suggesting potential
to facilitate a reduction by intervening at this service level. Health
authorities’ incentives to reduce involuntary psychiatric admissions should to
a greater extent incorporate the primary health care level. Further research is
needed on effective interventions and comprehensive models adapted for this
care level.
A pitfall for machine learning methods aiming to predict across cell types
Authors: Schreiber Jacob , Singh Ritambhara , Bilmes Jeffrey , Noble William Stafford
Published: November 2020

Machine learning models that predict genomic activity are most useful when they make accurate predictions across cell types. Here, we show that when the training and test sets contain the same genomic loci, the resulting model may falsely appear to perform well by effectively memorizing the average activity associated with each locus across the training cell types. We demonstrate this phenomenon in the context of predicting gene expression and chromatin domain boundaries, and we suggest methods to diagnose and avoid the pitfall. We anticipate that, as more data becomes available, future projects will increasingly risk suffering from this issue.
Effects of tibial and parasacral nerve electrostimulation techniques on women with poststroke overactive bladder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Candido Thais Alves , Ribeiro Bruna Miranda , de Araújo Cristiane Rodrigues Cardoso , Pinto Rogério de Melo Costa , Resende Ana Paula Magalhães , Pereira-Baldon Vanessa Santos
Published: November 2020

Background

Neurogenic bladder (NB) can affect people after stroke episodes. NB features changes in the normal voiding pattern at the bladder filling and emptying phases. Overactive NB is characterized by urgency symptoms, with or without urinary incontinence, caused by NB. This disorder affects many domains of life (physical, social, psychological, domestic, sexual) that limit personal autonomy and degrade the quality of life. Among the several treatments available, the conservative physical therapy intervention through tibial nerve electrostimulation (TNES) and parasacral electrostimulation (PSES) can help improve patient conditions with a smaller number of collateral effects than those of interventions based on medication. The aim of the present study is to compare the effects of TNES and PSES techniques in women with overactive NB after stroke episodes to assess the impact of urinary incontinence in these women, on their number of incontinence episodes, daytime and nocturnal urinary frequency, and quality of life.

Methods

This is a prospective clinical study to compare two randomized groups based on parallel and blind conditions. Forty-four women who have had a stroke episode at least 30 days before the trial and who have developed overactive NB will be recruited for the trial. All patients will be subjected to initial evaluation and randomly divided into two groups, TNES and PSES. Subsequently, the two groups will be subjected to a 12-session intervention protocol, twice a week. A new evaluation will be performed after the intervention.

Discussion

The results of this study will contribute to the physiotherapeutic treatment of women with NB after a stroke episode since such results will add information about the benefits of this treatment, urinary control, and the improvements in the quality of life of these women.

Trial registration

Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (REBEC) RBR-2bn2z4. Registered on December 11, 2018
Developing and testing the effectiveness of a novel online integrated treatment for problem gambling and tobacco smoking: a protocol for an open-label randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bilevicius Elena , Single Alanna , Baumgartner Chris , Bui Van , Kempe Tyler , Schaub Michael P. , Stewart Sherry H. , MacKillop James , Hodgins David C. , Wardell Jeffrey D. , O’Connor Roisin , Read Jennifer , Hadjistavropoulos Heather , Sundstrom Christopher , Keough Matthew T.
Published: November 2020

Background

Gambling and tobacco smoking are highly comorbid among North American adults. However, there is a paucity of treatment options that are integrated (i.e. targeting both gambling and tobacco smoking simultaneously), accessible, and evidence based.

Methods

The aim of this two-arm open-label randomized controlled trial is to examine the effectiveness of an online, self-guided integrated treatment for problem gambling and tobacco smoking. A target sample of 214 participants will be recruited and be randomized into either an 8-week integrated or gambling only control condition. Both conditions will consist of seven online modules following cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing principles. Our three primary outcomes are (1) the number of days gambled, (2) money spent on gambling activities, and (3) time spent in gambling activities. Secondary outcomes include gambling disorder symptoms, cigarette use, and nicotine dependence symptoms. Assessments will be completed at baseline, at completion (i.e. 8 weeks from baseline), and at follow-up (i.e. 24 weeks from baseline). Generalized linear mixed modelling will be used to evaluate our primary and secondary outcomes. We expect that participants receiving online integrated treatment will show larger reductions in gambling relative to those receiving a control gambling only intervention. We further hypothesize that reductions in smoking will mediate these group differences.

Discussion

The rates of problem gambling and tobacco smoking are high in North America; yet, the treatment options for both are limited, with no integrated treatments available. If supported, our pilot study will be a cost-effective and accessible way to improve treatments for co-occurring problem gambling and tobacco use.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03614884. Registered on August 3, 2019
An improved method for in vitro feeding of adult female Dermanyssus gallinae (poultry red mite) using Baudruche membrane (goldbeater’s skin)
Authors: Nunn Francesca , Baganz Jessica , Bartley Kathryn , Hall Sarah , Burgess Stewart , Nisbet Alasdair J.
Published: November 2020

Background

Dermanyssus gallinae, or poultry red mite (PRM), is an important ectoparasite in laying hen, having a significant effect on animal welfare and potentially causing economic loss. Testing novel control compounds typically involves in vitro methodologies before in vivo assessments. Historically, in vitro methods have involved PRM feeding on hen blood through a membrane. The use of hen blood requires multiple procedures (bleeds) to provide sufficient material, and the use of a larger species (e.g. goose) could serve as a refinement in the use of animals in research.

Methods

The in vitro feeding device used was that which currently employs a Parafilm™ M membrane (Bartley et al.: Int J Parasitol. 45:819–830, 2015). Adult female PMR were used to investigate any differences in mite feeding, egg laying and mortality when fed goose or hen blood. Effects on these parameters when PRM were fed through either the Parafilm™ M membrane or the Baudruche membrane alone or through a combination of the membrane with an overlaid polyester mesh were tested using goose blood.

Results

Poultry red mites fed equally well on goose or hen blood through the Parafilm™ M membrane, and there were no significant differences in mortality of PRM fed with either blood type. A significant increase (t test: t = 3.467, df = 4, P = 0.03) in the number of eggs laid per fed mite was observed when goose blood was used. A 70% increase in PRM feeding was observed when the mites were fed on goose blood through a Baudruche membrane compared to when they were fed goose blood through the Parafilm™ M membrane. The addition of an overlaid polyester mesh did not improve feeding rates. A significant increase (analysis of variance: F(3, 20) = 3.193, P = 0.04) in PRM egg laying was observed in mites fed on goose blood through the Baudruche membrane compared to those fed goose blood through the Parafilm™ M membrane. A mean of 1.22 (standard error of the mean ± 0.04) eggs per fed mite was obtained using the Baudruche feeding device compared to only 0.87 (SEM ± 0.3) eggs per fed mite using the Parafilm™ M device when neither was combined with a polyester mesh overlay.

Conclusion

The in vitro feeding of adult female PRM can be readily facilitated through the use of goose blood in feeding devices with the Baudruche membrane.

Graphical Abstract
Antibiotic resistance assessment of Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from Tehran hospitals due to the presence of efflux pumps encoding genes (adeA and adeS genes) by molecular method
Authors: Basatian-Tashkan Batool , Niakan Mohammad , Khaledi Mansoor , Afkhami Hamed , Sameni Fatemeh , Bakhti Shahriar , Mirnejad Reza
Published: November 2020

Objective

Acinetobacter baumannii(A. baumannii) has caused many problems in nosocomial infections. Efflux pumps are considered as one of the most important mechanisms of resistance in this bacterium and have the ability to excrete toxic substances such as antibiotics out of the cell.

Results

In this study, 60 isolates ofA. baumanniiwere collected from patients in several hospitals in Tehran, Iran. After diagnosis using standard biochemical methods, the pattern of antibiotic susceptibility was determined using the disk diffusion method according to CLSI guidelines. The adeA and adeS genes were identified by PCR method. The highest resistance to Piperacillin and the lowest resistance to Gentamicin were observed (100% compared to 48.4%). 6.6% of the isolates had only adeA gene and adeS gene was observed in 8.4% of isolates and both genes were detected in 73.4% of the samples. Despite the high resistance of tA. baumanniio antibiotics and due to the high frequency of genes of adeA and adeS efflux pumps inA. baumanniiisolates, it can be concluded that these efflux pumps may play an important role in resistance of this bacterium. By determining the pattern of antibiotic the resistance before treatment, the resistance of this pathogen can be prevented in societies.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Evaluation of the value of basketball players based on wireless network and improved Bayesian algorithm
Authors: Huo Dong
Published: November 2020

The selection of basketball players should highlight their specific characteristics and proceed according to the essential laws of basketball. When the acquired training level becomes closer and closer, and is more and more conducive to the control of the entire training and competition, the selection of the standard paradigm of basketball players plays a key role. At present, the existing evaluation methods of basketball players are limited to the human experience of coaches, and there is a lack of further information evaluation methods. This article discusses a new type of basketball player evaluation scheme that combines wireless network and machine learning methods. First, the wireless sensor network is used to perceive basketball players' performance on the court and record various evaluation indicators. Secondly, establish a player value evaluation model through improved Bayesian algorithm and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods. Finally, after relevant tests and comparisons with the coaches' results, the model showed better evaluation results and a fairer value distribution.
β-Glucogallin isolated from Fusidium coccineum and its enhancement of skin barrier effects
Authors: Kim Hyoung-Geun , Kim Ki Sun , Kim Minji , Shin Sang-Hwan , Lee Yeong-Geun , Bang Myun-Ho , Lee Dong-Geol , Baek Nam-In
Published: November 2020

Soil has been used for treatment of wound and skin diseases and for cosmetic purposes. Fusidium coccineum (FC) SA-1FC (Ascomycota) is a fungus found in nature, and its by-products are present in humid soils with plant humus. This study investigates the medium of fermented FC as a covering for all skin problems, including dryness, inflammation, and wounds. A preliminary study revealed that an alcohol extract of FC had a skin-enhancing effect, and thin-layer chromatography revealed a major component in a non-polar fraction. Here we identify a major compound isolated from a non-polar fraction as β-glucogallin. The mRNA levels of filaggrin and HAS3 are upregulated by FC and β-glucogallin treatment in keratinocytes and immortalized human keratinocytes cells. In addition, FC and β-glucogallin exert anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing expression of interleukin-4/poly(I:C)-induced chemokines and inflammatory cytokines. In fibroblasts, Hs68 cells, FC and β-glucogallin stimulate cell migration. These results suggest that FC and β-glucogallin can enhance skin barrier function.
The homeodomain transcription factor Orthopedia is involved in development of the Drosophila hindgut
Authors: Hildebrandt Kirsten , Bach Nicole , Kolb Dieter , Walldorf Uwe
Published: November 2020

Background

TheDrosophilahindgut is commonly used model for studying various aspects of organogenesis like primordium establishment, further specification, patterning, and morphogenesis. During embryonic development ofDrosophila, many transcriptional activators are involved in the formation of the hindgut. The transcription factor Orthopedia (Otp), a member of the 57B homeobox gene cluster, is expressed in the hindgut and nervous system of developingDrosophilaembryos, but due to the lack of mutants no functional analysis has been conducted yet.

Results

We show that two differentotptranscripts, a hindgut-specific and a nervous system-specific form, are present in theDrosophilaembryo. Using an Otp antibody, a detailed expression analysis during hindgut development was carried out. Otp was not only expressed in the embryonic hindgut, but also in the larval and adult hindgut. To analyse the function ofotp, we generated the mutantotpalleleotpGTby ends-out gene targeting. In addition, we isolated two EMS-inducedotpalleles in a genetic screen for mutants of the 57B region. All threeotpalleles showed embryonic lethality with a severe hindgut phenotype. Anal pads were reduced and the large intestine was completely missing. This phenotype is due to apoptosis in the hindgut primordium and the developing hindgut.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that Otp is another important factor for hindgut development ofDrosophila. As a downstream factor ofbynOtp is most likely present only in differentiated hindgut cells during all stages of development rather than in stem cells.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of virtual reality as an exercise intervention for individuals with a respiratory condition
Authors: Condon Christina , Lam Wing Tung , Mosley Chiara , Gough Suzanne
Published: November 2020

Background

Respiratory diseases impose an immense health burden worldwide and affect millions of people on a global scale. Reduction of exercise tolerance poses a huge health issue affecting patients with a respiratory condition, which is caused by skeletal muscle dysfunction and weakness and by lung function impairment. Virtual reality systems are emerging technologies that have drawn scientists’ attention to its potential benefit for rehabilitation.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA guidelines was performed to explore the effectiveness of virtual reality gaming and exergaming-based interventions on individuals with respiratory conditions.

Results

Differences between the virtual reality intervention and traditional exercise rehabilitation revealed weak to insignificant effect size for mean heart rate (standardized mean difference, SMD = 0.17; p = 0.002), peak heart rate (SMD = 0.36; p = 0.27), dyspnea (SMD = 0.32; p = 0.13), and oxygen saturation SpO2 (SMD = 0.26; p = 0.096). In addition, other measures were collected, however, to the heterogeneity of reporting, could not be included in the meta-analysis. These included adherence, enjoyment, and drop-out rates.

Conclusions

The use of VRS as an intervention can provide options for rehabilitation, given their moderate effect for dyspnea and equivalent to weak effect for mean and maximum peak HR and SpO2. However, the use of virtual reality systems, as an intervention, needs further study since the literature lacks standardized methods to accurately analyze the effects of virtual reality for individuals with respiratory conditions, especially for duration, virtual reality system type, adherence, adverse effects, feasibility, enjoyment, and quality of life.
Heat and fraud: evaluating how room temperature influences fraud likelihood
Authors: Liu Huanxu , Yang Jingwen , Yamada Yuki
Published: November 2020

Despite the considerable amount of research devoted to understanding fraud, few studies have examined how the physical environment can influence the likelihood of committing fraud. One recent study found a link between room brightness and occurrence of human fraud behaviors. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate how temperature may affect fraud. Based on a power analysis using the effect size observed in a pilot study, we recruited 105 participants and randomly divided them into three temperature groups (warm, medium, and cool). We then counted fraud behaviors in each group and tested for potential significant differences with a Kruskal–Wallis test. Additionally, we used a correlation analysis to determine whether the perceived temperature affected fraud. As a result, regardless of participants’ subjective sensory experience or their physical environment, we did not find that temperature-related factors influence the incidence of fraud. We discussed the potential reason for the results and suggested directions for future research.
Coating seeds with Trichoderma strains promotes plant growth and enhance the systemic resistance against Fusarium crown rot in durum wheat
Authors: Kthiri Zayneb , Jabeur Maissa Ben , Machraoui Myriam , Gargouri Samia , Hiba Khaled , Hamada Walid
Published: November 2020

Background

Fusarium crown rot is one of the major diseases that cause significant yield losses of wheat, and Trichoderma strains were known as an effective biocontrol agent.

Main body

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of coating durum wheat seeds of the cultivar “Karim” with 3 different Tunisian strains of Trichoderma sp. (S.INAT, SIO1, SIO2) and the Trichoderma-based commercial product Trianum-T22 on seed germination, seedling growth, and plant defense response against the pathogen Fusarium culmorum. The strains were identified using molecular tools based on sequencing ITS region of ribosomal DNA. The results confirmed at 99% of homology that the strains were T. harzianum. Under controlled conditions, the coating seeds were released with 400 μl of spore suspension at 107 spores/ml. The seed coating with Trianum-P, and S.INAT showed the highest seed germination rates ranging from 85 to 90% while S.IO1 and S.IO2 presented the lowest germination rates with 66 and 68%, respectively. At 20 days post-infection (dpi) with F. culmorum, the treated plants with S.INAT and Trianum-T22 reduced the disease incidence by 53.59 and 51.79%, respectively than the control. Besides, S.INAT induced two-folds the phenolic compounds level compared to infected control. Further, the peroxidase activity was enhanced by 50% in average since 10 dpi in plants treated with S.INAT and SIO2 than the control.

Conclusion

The results suggest that seed coating with T. harzianum S.INAT was a promising tool for crop production and protection under field conditions due to both direct antagonist activity and the indirect growth promotion. This strain seems to induce the systemic resistance of plants against foot crown rot disease.
Evaluation of skin phototoxicity of transdermally administered pharmaceuticals in Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Youn Nam Hee , Kim Eun Ji , Yi Jung-Sun , Kim Joo Hwan , Cho Ye-Jin , Nam Ki Taek , Park Ki Sook , Lee Jong Kwon
Published: November 2020

Some drugs cause phototoxicity in humans when exposed to light, thus there is a need for an in vivo phototoxicity test to evaluate them. However, an in vivo phototoxicity test method to evaluate this has not been established. This study aimed to establish an in vivo phototoxicity test method for transdermally administered drugs. For this, we evaluated the phototoxicity using Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats for transdermal administered drugs and we studied the appropriate UVA dose using 8-methoxypsalen, which is a well-known phototoxic drug. We found that a UVA dose of 15 J/cm2 was dose and time dependent response compared to other UVA doses. We performed the Minimum Erythema Dose (MED) test because UVB can cause skin irritation by itself and selected 0.01 J/cm2 as an appropriate dose of UVB. Using the selected UVA and UVB doses, we performed a phototoxicity study of 6 pharmaceutical drugs, which included phototoxic and non-phototoxic drugs. As a result of the phototoxicity test, 100% accuracy was obtained when compared with previous studies. In addition, we performed histopathology to confirm the new findings. We found that histopathology can be used as an additional indicator of phototoxicity test for transdermally administered drugs.
Bisflavonoids fraction from Araucaria bidwilli Hook., reverses hyperlipidemia induced atherosclerosis in high-fat diet induced hyperlipidemia
Authors: Siddiqui Rahimullah , Ahamed Haja Nazeer , Yusuff Ismail
Published: November 2020

Background

Hyperlipidemia is a major cause for atherosclerosis which is a frontline cause for mortality in the world. Bisflavonoids are dimeric flavonoids abundant in few medicinal herbs with various pharmacological effects. However, in vivo anti-hyperlipidemic role of bisflavonoids (BFR) is limited. The present investigation is aimed to study BFR from the leaf extract ofAraucaria bidwilliiHook. in rat model of hyperlipidemia.

Results

Administration of HFD was significantly (p< 0.0001) shown to increase total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides (TG) associated with decrease in HDL. BFR at two doses significantly decreased TC, LDL, and TG in HFD-fed rats. In addition, BFR significantly (p< 0.0001) decreased the MDA and significantly (p< 0.0001) increased the impaired anti-oxidant enzyme SOD and CAT in heart tissue induced by HFD. Further, 28 days administration of BFR significantly (p< 0.001) decreased HFD-induced aortic wall thickness.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that bisflavonoids fromA. bidwilliiHook. leaf extract administered to high fat-fed rats showed beneficial anti-hyperlipidemic effect by reducing lipid profiles and protecting the heart tissue from oxidative stress.
Left-sided primary cardiac lymphoma: a case report
Authors: Scheggi Valentina , Mazzoni Carlotta , Mariani Tiziano , Stefàno Pier Luigi
Published: November 2020

Background

Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) is a rare neoplasm, defined as lymphoma with the main bulk localized in the heart; diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type. It usually involves the pericardium and the right heart and has a poor prognosis with a median survival of less than 1 year.

Case presentation

A 62-year-old female presented to the emergency department for palpitations and recent-onset dyspnea. The echocardiogram showed a round-shaped mass (33 x 32 mm) in the left atrium, a mild circumferential pericardial effusion, and a hyperechogenic mass at the level of the atrio-ventricular junction. A thoracic CT scan demonstrated the presence of a bulky mediastinal mass, strictly attached to the left heart and infiltrating its posterior wall, the left pulmonary veins, and the inferior lobar bronchus. The patient underwent CT-guided biopsy, and the diagnosis of double-expressor DLBCL was made. Given the potential risk of heart rupture during chemotherapy, the first cycle of R-CHOP was performed in an in-hospital setting, with initial benefit. After completing 6 cycles of R-CHOP, imaging studies showed rapid progression of the disease; the patient was started on the salvation protocol R-DHAOX but died of septic shock 10 months later.

Conclusions

PCL is rare and accounts for less than 2% of primary cardiac tumors; double-expressor DLBCL carries a poor prognosis.

As in most cases, the diagnosis was made after the onset of nonspecific symptoms (dyspnea) but—despite the strong predilection for right heart involvement reported in literature—our patient had a predominant left atrial infiltration.
Strengthening research management and support services in sub-Saharan African universities and research institutions
Authors: Pulford Justin , Crossman Susie , Begg Sara , Amegee Quach Jessica , Abomo Pierre , El Hajj Taghreed , Bates Imelda
Published: November 2020

Background: International development partners and research councils are increasingly funding research management and support (RMS) capacity strengthening initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) as part of a broader investment in strengthening national and regional research systems.  However, the evidence-base to inform RMS capacity strengthening initiatives is limited at present. This research note presents a synthesis of 28 RMS capacity assessments completed in 25 universities/research institutions from across 15 SSA countries between 2014 and 2018. 

Methods: All 28 capacity assessments were completed following a standardised methodology consisting of semi-structured interviews conducted with research and research support staff at the respective institution as well as document reviews and observation of onsite facilities. Data were extracted from the 28 reports detailing the findings of each assessment according to a framework synthesis approach.

Results: In total, 13 distinct capacity gap categories emerged from across the 28 RMS capacity assessment reports.  Almost all the institutions assessed faced multiple gaps in RMS capacity within and across each of these 13 categories. The 13 categories were not independent of each other and were often closely inter-connected. Commonalities were also evident across multiple categories, the two most obvious of which were severe fiscal constraints and the often-complex bureaucracy of the institutional operating environment.

Conclusions: The synthesis findings reveal multiple, commonly shared RMS capacity gaps in universities and research institutions across SSA. No single intervention type, or focus, would be sufficient to strengthen capacity across all 13 areas; rather, what is needed to facilitate a significant shift in RMS capacity within such SSA universities and research institutions is a combination of interventions, consisting of differing levels of cost and complexity, variously led (or supported) by both internal and external actors.
Recent advances in tendinopathy
Authors: Challoumas Dimitris , Biddle Mairiosa , Millar Neal L
Published: November 2020

endinopathy refers to the clinical diagnosis of activity-related pain resulting in a decline in tendon function. In the last few years, much has been published concerning the basic science and clinical investigation of tendinopathy and debates and discussions to new questions and points of view started many years ago. This advances review will discuss the current thinking on the basic science and clinical management of tendinopathy and in particular new findings in the tendon repair space that are relevant to the pathophysiology of tendinopathy. We will further discuss potential novel therapies on the horizon in human tendon disease.
Positive and negative life experiences and changes in internal working models of attachment – a comparative study
Authors: Konieczny Patryk , Cierpiałkowska Lidia
Published: November 2020

Cel pracy

Jedno z ważniejszych pytań w psychologii osobowości i psychopatologii dotyczy tego, czy modele operacyjne przywiązania ulegają zmianie w ciągu życia. Przyjmuje się, że wczesnodziecięce doświadczenia dziecka wpływają na ukształtowanie się bezpiecznych bądź pozabezpiecznych wewnętrznych modeli operacyjnych przywiązania. Dominujące do niedawna przekonanie, że powstałe wówczas reprezentacje więzi są względnie trwałe nie jest już tak oczywiste, ponieważ pojawiły się doniesienia, że pod wpływem znaczących doświadczeń życiowych może dojść do zmiany stylu przywiązania – z pozabezpiecznego na bezpieczny i odwrotnie. Głównym celem niniejszego projektu było zbadanie czy i w jaki sposób pozytywne i negatywne doświadczenia życiowe powodują zmiany wewnętrznych modeli operacyjnych przywiązania.

Metoda

Styl przywiązania specyficzny do matki i ojca oraz aktualnych znaczących osób – partnera i przyjaciela, zbadano kwestionariuszem ECR-RS, podczas gdy globalne przywiązanie oszacowano na podstawie skali SAAM oraz wielkości wskaźnika G w ECR-RS. Pomiaru liczby i nasilenia pozytywnych i negatywnych wydarzeń życiowych oceniono przy użyciu LES-M. Analizę wyników badań przeprowadzono na grupie 151 osób dorosłych.

Wyniki

Stwierdzono istotne zależności między nasileniem pozytywnych wydarzeń życiowych a globalnym i specyficznymi stylami więzi z przyjacielem i partnerem. Nie zaobserwowano natomiast istotnych związków między nasileniem negatywnych wydarzeń życiowych i stylem więzi. Porównania międzygrupowe pokazały, że w grupie osób, w której nastąpiła zmiana stylu przywiązania z pozabezpiecznego na bezpieczny zaobserwowano istotnie silniejsze doświadczanie pozytywnych zdarzeń niż w grupie, w której zmiana nie wystąpiła. Porównywane grupy nie różniły się nasileniem negatywnych wydarzeń życiowych.

Wnioski

Badania potwierdzają hipotezę o wystąpieniu zmiany globalnego stylu i niektórych aspektów specyficznych pozabezpiecznych więzi na styl bezpieczny pod wpływem doświadczenia pozytywnych zdarzeń życiowych.