bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of pastoralists’ participation in commercial fodder markets for livelihood resilience in drylands of northern Kenya: Case of Isiolo
Authors: Mohamed Sala Saada , Otieno David Jakinda , Nzuma Jonathan , Mureithi Stephen Mwangi
Published: August 2020

Feed insecurity associated with prolonged and recurrent droughts remains a perennial challenge impeding livestock production and a major source of resource-based conflicts in the drylands of many developing countries such as Kenya. Thus, the emerging fodder markets in the drylands act as a secondary source of livestock feed to augment the natural pastures and hence play a crucial role in meeting the year-round feed requirements of pastoralists. However, little information exists on the factors influencing pastoralists to purchase fodder for their own livestock amid their long-held cultural beliefs in using natural pastures for forage . Using primary household survey data from a multi-stage sample of 201 pastoralists, this study assessed socio-economic and institutional factors that influence the pastoralists’ participation in fodder markets in Isiolo County, Kenya. Both descriptive statistics and a Heckman two-step model were applied in data analysis. The findings showed that pastoralists’ decisions to purchase fodder are significantly influenced by access to credit, weather and market information, land tenure system, exposure to shocks, off-farm income, age, gender and proximity to towns. The amount of fodder purchased was significantly affected by access to weather information, exposure to shocks and livestock holdings. These results underscore the importance of improving pastoralists’ access to prerequisite institutional support services to enhance their access to fodder and livestock markets, basic services and increased integration into the broader market economy.
Survival by histology among patients with bone and soft tissue sarcoma who undergo metastasectomy: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Ying , Delisle Megan , Smith Denise , Srikanthan Amirrtha
Published: August 2020

Background

Metastasectomy is performed on a select cohort of patients with advanced and/or recurrent bone and soft tissue sarcomas because of the potential for long term relapse free and overall survival associated with the procedure. However, the evidence supporting metastasectomy is difficult to summarize without a systematic examination of existing literature. The objective of this systematic review will be to examine survival among both adults and children with advanced and recurrent bone and STS who undergo metastasectomy.

Methods

We designed and registered a study protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. We will include data from survival studies (e.g., randomized trials, cohort studies, routine case registries, and case control) conducted in children and adults with advanced and recurrent bone and soft tissue sarcoma who undergo metastasectomy. The primary outcome will be overall survival. Secondary outcomes will be 30-day post-operative mortality, recurrence-free survival, time off systemic therapy, and patient-reported outcomes including quality of life end points where available. Literature searches will be performed in multiple electronic databases including Ovid MEDLINE ® (1946 to present), Ovid EMBASE (1974 to present), Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Grey literature will be identified through searching references, conference abstracts, Papers First, and Google Scholar. Two investigators will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. Full-text articles selected for analysis will be assessed for quality and risk of bias. If feasible, we will conduct a random effects meta-analysis. Estimates will be stratified according to histology comparing survival based on organ of metastasectomy. Additional analysis will be conducted to explore the potential sources of heterogeneity according to various patient, disease, and treatment characteristics (e.g., metastasis status, age, disease burden, and concomitant interventions).

Discussion

This systematic review and meta-analysis will identify, evaluate, and integrate data on survival of metastasectomy of bone and soft tissue sarcoma by organ of metastasis. Our findings may have implications for clinicians, patients, and their families when considering selection for resection of oligometastatic disease in de novo, or recurrent bone and soft tissue sarcoma. Implications for future research will be identified to improve the outcomes of these complex patients.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42019126906
On exact special solutions for the stochastic regularized long wave-Burgers equation
Authors: Korpinar Zeliha , Inc Mustafa , Alshomrani Ali S. , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we will analyze the Regularized Long Wave-Burgers equation with conformable derivative (cd). Some white noise functional solutions for this equation are obtained by using white noise analysis, Hermite transforms, and the modified sub-equation method. These solutions include exact stochastic trigonometric functions, hyperbolic functions solutions and wave solutions.

This study emphasizes that the modified fractional sub-equation method is sufficient to solve the stochastic nonlinear equations in mathematical physics.
Comparison of McGrath, Pentax, and Macintosh laryngoscope in normal and cervical immobilized manikin by novices: a randomized crossover trial
Authors: Yi In Kyong , Kwak Hyun Jeong , Lee Kyung Cheon , Lee Ji Hyea , Min Sang Kee , Kim Jong Yeop
Published: August 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to compare tracheal intubation performance regarding the time to intubation, glottic view, difficulty, and dental click, by novices using McGrath videolaryngoscope (VL), Pentax Airway Scope (AWS) and Macintosh laryngoscope in normal and cervical immobilized manikin models.

Methods

Thirty-five anesthesia nurses without previous intubation experience were recruited. Participants performed endotracheal intubation in a manikin model at two simulated neck positions (normal and fixed neck via cervical immobilization), using three different devices three times each. Performance parameters included intubation time, success rate of intubation, Cormack Lehane laryngoscope grading, dental click, and subjective difficulty score.

Results

Intubation time and success rate during first attempt were not significantly different between the 3 groups in normal airway manikin. In the cervical immobilized manikin, the intubation time was shorter (p = 0.012), and the success rate with the first attempt was significantly higher (p < 0.001) when using McGrath VL and Pentax AWS compared with Macintosh laryngoscope. Both VLs showed less difficulty score (p < 0.001) and more Cormack Lehane grade I (p < 0.001) in both scenarios. The incidence of dental clicks was higher with Macintosh laryngoscope compared with McGrath VL in cervical immobilized airway (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

McGrath VL and Pentax AWS did not show clinically significant decrease in intubation time, however, they achieved higher first attempt success rate, easier intubation and better glottis view compared with Macintosh laryngoscope by novices in a cervical immobilized manikin model. McGrath VL may reduce the risk of dental injury compared with Macintosh laryngoscope in cervical immobilized scenario.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03161730), May 22, 2017

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/hom
Effect of Impact Load on Splice Length of Reinforcing Bars
Authors: Hwang Hyeon-Jong , Yang Fan , Zang Li , Baek Jang-Woon , Ma Gao
Published: August 2020

Impact loading damage of reinforced concrete (RC) members deteriorates bond strength of reinforcing bars. To understand the effect of strain rate on the bond strength of reinforcing bars in RC beams under impact load, drop hammer test was performed on twenty-four simply supported RC beams with lap spliced bars at the mid-span. The test parameters were reinforcing bar diameter, splice length, drop height, and hammer mass. The dynamic responses including the impact load history, mid-span deflection history, crack distribution, and strain history of reinforcing bar were evaluated. Although the designed bar development length was 31–69% of the requirement of current design codes under static load, the tensile strength of bar splices was greater than the dynamic yield strength when subjected to large impact energy under impact load. On the basis of the test results, existing design equations for the bar development length under static load were modified to consider the impact loading effect on the bond strength. Factors related to the strain rate effect of materials, impact damage, and impact energy loss were proposed. The prediction of the proposed method agreed well with the tensile strength of bar splices under impact load.
Defining novel functions for cerebrospinal fluid in ALS pathophysiology
Authors: Ng Kee Kwong Koy Chong , Mehta Arpan R. , Nedergaard Maiken , Chandran Siddharthan
Published: August 2020

Despite the considerable progress made towards understanding ALS pathophysiology, several key features of ALS remain unexplained, from its aetiology to its epidemiological aspects. The glymphatic system, which has recently been recognised as a major clearance pathway for the brain, has received considerable attention in several neurological conditions, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. Its significance in ALS has, however, been little addressed. This perspective article therefore aims to assess the possibility of CSF contribution in ALS by considering various lines of evidence, including the abnormal composition of ALS-CSF, its toxicity and the evidence for impaired CSF dynamics in ALS patients. We also describe a potential role for CSF circulation in determining disease spread as well as the importance of CSF dynamics in ALS neurotherapeutics. We propose that a CSF model could potentially offer additional avenues to explore currently unexplained features of ALS, ultimately leading to new treatment options for people with ALS.
Hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1α) reduced inflammation in spinal cord injury via miR-380-3p/ NLRP3 by Circ 0001723
Authors: Li Xigong , Lou Xianfeng , Xu Sanzhong , Du Junhua , Wu Junsong
Published: August 2020

Background

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe central nervous system trauma. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of HIF-1α on inflammation in spinal cord injury (SCI) to uncover the molecular mechanisms of anti-inflammation.

Results

HIF-1α was reduced in SCI model rats and HIF-1α activation reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-18 levels in SCI model rats. Meanwhile, Circ 0001723 expression was down-regulated and miR-380-3p expression was up-regulated in SCI model rats. In vitro model, down-regulation of Circ 0001723 promoted TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-18 levels, compared with control negative group. However, over-expression of Circ 0001723 reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-18 levels in vitro model. Down-regulation of Circ 0001723 suppressed HIF-1α protein expressions and induced NLRP3 and Caspase-1 protein expressions in vitro model by up-regulation of miR-380-3p. Next, inactivation of HIF-1α reduced the pro-inflammation effects of Circ 0001723 in vitro model. Then, si-NLRP3 also inhibited the pro-inflammation effects of Circ 0001723 in vitro model via promotion of autophagy.

Conclusions

We concluded that HIF-1α reduced inflammation in spinal cord injury via miR-380-3p/ NLRP3 by Circ 0001723.
Endurance, identity, and temporality: the ethnic labor market and labor process of Chinese migrant workers in France
Authors: Du Juan
Published: August 2020

Workers in France enjoy strong legal protections of their rights, and they have developed organizational support through unions. However, Chinese immigrant workers suffer from adverse working conditions and extreme labor precariousness. Paradoxically, they rarely turn to legal institutions for help. Nor do they organize themselves in unions. Instead, they choose to endure their exploitation. Based on an ethnographic study of Chinese immigrant workers in a Paris suburb, this paper investigates different factors that may influence their preference for resistance strategies. This paper begins with an analysis of the typology of exploitation and later proposes two possible explanations for Chinese immigrant workers’ preferences. Finally, it explores the formation of migrant worker subjectivity.
Acromegaly: a clinical perspective
Authors: Lawrence Lima , Alkwatli Kenda , Bena James , Prayson Richard , Kshettry Varun , Recinos Pablo , Hatipoglu Betul , Pantalone Kevin M. , Weil Robert , Hamrahian Amir H. , Kennedy Laurence , Yogi-Morren Divya
Published: August 2020

Background

To examine the clinical and hormonal profiles, comorbidities, treatment patterns, surgical pathology and clinical outcomes of patients diagnosed with acromegaly at the Cleveland Clinic over a 15-year period.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients with acromegaly who underwent surgical resection between 2003 and 2018.

Results

A total of 136 patients (62 men; mean age 48.1 years) with biochemical evidence of acromegaly were analyzed. Median insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) level at diagnosis was 769.0 ng/mL and most patients had a macroadenoma (82.2%). Immunoreactivity to growth hormone (GH) was noted in 124 adenomas, with co-staining in 89 adenomas. Complete visible tumor resection during initial surgery was achieved in 87 patients (64.0%). In this cohort, complete response to surgery alone was observed in 61 patients (70.1%), while 31 out of 65 patients (47.7%) who received additional post-surgical medications and/or radiation therapy achieved complete response. At most recent follow-up, 92 patients achieved eventual complete response by documented normalization of IGF-1 levels. Higher IGF-1 level at diagnosis (P = 0.024) and cavernous sinus invasion (P = 0.028) were predictors for failure to respond to surgery.

Conclusion

In this study, the majority of tumors were macroadenoma, plurihormonal, and treated effectively with surgery alone or surgery with adjuvant medical or radiation therapy. More studies are needed to identify additional molecular biomarkers, tumor characteristics and imaging findings to individualize treatment and better predict treatment outcomes.
The long-term effects of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy on the optical coherence tomography angiographic appearance of neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Levine Emily S. , Custo Greig Eugenia , Mendonça Luísa S. M. , Gulati Shilpa , Despotovic Ivana N. , Alibhai A. Yasin , Moult Eric , Muakkassa Nora , Quaranta-El Maftouhi Maddalena , El Maftouhi Adil , Chakravarthy Usha , Fujimoto James G. , Baumal Caroline R. , Witkin Andre J. , Duker Jay S. , Hartnett M. Elizabeth , Waheed Nadia K.
Published: August 2020

Background

The short-term effects of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment on macular neovascularization (MNV) morphology is well described, but long-term studies on morphologic changes and correlation of such changes to the type of MNV have not been conducted. This study aims to determine if different types of MNVs in neovascular AMD (nAMD) behave differently with anti-VEGF treatment as visualized on optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods

Treatment-naïve nAMD patients were retrospectively screened for baseline and follow-up OCTA imaging 10 or more months after initial treatment. Images were graded for MNV type, area, activity, mature versus immature vessels, vessel density, presence of atrophy, atrophy location and area. Growth rate was calculated as the percent change in lesion area from baseline over the years of follow-up. In addition, the occurrence of complete regression and the percent of lesions that grew, remained stable, and shrunk per type was also evaluated.

Results

Forty-three eyes from 43 patients with a mean follow-up of 2 years were evaluated. On structural OCT, 26 lesions were classified as pure type 1 MNVs, 12 MNVs had a type 2 component, and 5 MNVs had a type 3 component. Of these cases, 2 mixed-type MNVs were considered to have completely regressed. There was no significant differences in MNV area and growth rate between type 1 and type 2 lesions, but all cases of type 3 lesions shrunk in the follow-up period. There was no correlation between the number of injections per year and growth rate, endpoint MNV area or endpoint activity status for any MNV type. There was no significant association between the development of atrophy and the number of injections, baseline MNV area, baseline vessel density, or lesion growth rate.

Conclusions

In nAMD, complete regression of an MNV network exposed to anti-VEGF is rare. This work emphasizes the role of anti-VEGF as anti-leakage rather than vascular regression agents in nAMD.
Factors determining the knowledge and prevention practice of healthcare workers towards COVID-19 in Amhara region, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Asemahagn Mulusew Andualem
Published: August 2020

Background

Healthcare workers (HWs) are at the highest risk of getting CIVID-19. This study aimed to assess factors determining the knowledge and prevention of HWs towards COVID-19 in the Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 442 HWs using email and telegram addresses. The knowledge and practice of HWs were estimated using 16 knowledge and 11 practice questions. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used on SPSS version 25 to identify factors related to the knowledge and prevention practice of HWs on COVID-19. Significance was determined at a p value of < 0.05 and association was described by using odds ratio at 95% CI.

Results

Of 442 HWs, 398 (90% response rate) responded to the online interview questionnaire. From 398 HWs, 231(58%), 225(56%), 207(53%), and 191(48%) were males, from rural area, aged ≥ 34 years and nurses, respectively. About 279(70%) HWs had good knowledge of COVID-19 followed by 247(62%) good prevention practices. Age < 34 years (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.25–3.62), rural residence (AOR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.26–0.70), access to infection prevention (IP) training (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.36–4.21), presence of IP guideline (AOR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.64–4.62), and using social media (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.42–4.53) were factors of knowledge about COVID-19. Whereas, rural residence (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.31–0.75), facility type (AOR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.28–0.89), access to IP training (AOR = 2.32, 95% CI = 1.35–4.16), presence of IP guidelines (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.21–3.45), knowledge about COVID-19 (AOR = 2.98, 95% CI = 2.15–5.27), having chronic illnesses (AOR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.15–3.75), lack of protective equipment (PPE) (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.32–0.74), and high workload (AOR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.36–0.87) were factors of COVID-19 prevention.

Conclusion

In this study, most of the HWs had good knowledge but had lower prevention practice of COVID-19. Socio-demographic and access to information sources were factors of knowledge on COVID-19. Similarly, residence, shortage of PPE, high workload, comorbidities, knowledge, and access to IP training and guideline were factors limiting prevention practices. Thus, a consistent supply of PPE and improving health workers’ knowledge, making IP guidelines and information sources available, and managing chronic illnesses are crucial to prevent COVID-19 among HWs.
Association of miR-196a2 and miR-149 single-nucleotide polymorphisms with atherosclerotic ischemic stroke susceptibility
Authors: Mahmoud Dina , El-Sisi Ola , Sheta Marwa , Ahmed Sandra , Fathy Mona , Gomaa Kareeman , Ramzy Tarek
Published: August 2020

Background

Beside common risk factors for stroke such as diabetes and hypertension, single-nucleotide variants occurring within micro RNA genes have been identified as susceptibility loci for ischemic stroke risk.

Objectives

Investigate the possible association of two variants in pre miRNA sequences, rs11614913 within miR-196a2 C > T and rs2292832 within miR-149 T > C, with ischemic stroke.

Subjects and methods

One hundred ischemic stroke patients and 100 age and sex-matched controls having > 1 risk factor for atherosclerosis were enrolled in a case-control study. Degree of atherosclerosis was assessed using ultrasonography. Micro RNA variants were assessed by real-time PCR TaqMan probe assay.

Results

The TT genotype and T allele frequencies of miR-196a2 C > T were protective against ischemic stroke (OR 0.168,P0.001; OR 0.482,P< 0.001 respectively). While among miR-149 T > C variants, CC genotype was associated with increased risk by threefold (OR 3.061,P0.005) and C allele was associated with about 1.9 fold risk of stroke (OR 1.909,P0.002). Haplotypes analysis revealed miR-196a2T/-149 T allele combination was significantly lower among stroke patients than the controls (P< 0.001) with a protective effect (OR 0.196, 95% CI 0.083-0.466).

Conclusion

A decrease in the incidence of ischemic stroke is associated with miR-196a2 TT genotype and T allele and increases in the likelihood risk of ischemic stroke are associated with CC genotype and C allele within miR-149, and the two miRNAs under study are closely associated with vascular damage responses.
Evaluating net community benefits of integrating nature within cities
Authors: Daniels Peter , El Baghdadi Omniya , Desha C. , Matthews T.
Published: August 2020

Background

There is a lack of support for methods and data systems for the writing and impementation of regulatory and policy improvements requiring the evaluation of the net community benefits of integrating nature into cities. Addressing this need, this paper presents essential context and a framework to guide consistent and systematic assessment of the social benefits and costs of biophilic urbanism and other bases for urban greening. We begin with a review of the major characteristics of, and differences between, key urban greening-related terms given the importance of establishing a consistent analytic basis for wellbeing assessment in urban planning strategies. These terms include ‘green cities’, ‘open space’, ‘urban green space’, ‘urban green infrastructure’, ‘biophilia’ and the practice of ‘biophilic urbanism’.

Results

We propose the use of ‘biophilic urbanism’ as a rubric urban planning term to cover all of the urban environmental interventions involving the intentional provision or protection of biophysical features. Focusing on specific and strategic targets and implementation actions, we then explore the consolidation and methodical assessment of social benefits and costs associated with the benefits of biophilic urbanism, based on total economic value (TEV) conceptual framework and its ability to support net environmental benefit valuation.

Conclusions

We conclude with an emphasis upon the importance of ensuring structure and methodological rigour in budgets and performance evaluation requirements. This paper has immediate implications for policy makers and regulatory authorities, providing the basis for consistent and transparent evaluation of biophilic urbanism initiatives. It also has implications for urban planners and built environment professionals, highlighting key considerations for design briefs to ensure the adequate integration of nature into urban new-build, refurbishments and revitalisation efforts.
Vojta therapy improves postural control in very early stroke rehabilitation: a randomised controlled pilot trial
Authors: Epple Corina , Maurer-Burkhard Barbara , Lichti Mari-Carmen , Steiner Thorsten
Published: August 2020

Background

It is still unclear, which physiotherapeutic approaches are most effective in stroke recovery. Vojta therapy is a type of physiotherapy that was originally developed for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy. Vojta therapy has been reported to improve automatic control of body posture. Because acute stroke patients are characterised by a disturbance in the ability to adapt to changes in body position, requiring automatic postural adjustment, we decided to investigate Vojta therapy in the early rehabilitation of stroke patients. Aim of the trial was to test the hypothesis that Vojta therapy - as a new physiotherapeutic approach in early stroke recovery - improves postural control and motor function in patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) or intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

This prospective, randomised controlled trial included patients with imaging-confirmed AIS or ICH, severe hemiparesis and randomly assigned them to Vojta therapy or standard physiotherapy within 72 h after stroke onset. Main exclusion criterion was restricted ability to communicate. Primary endpoint was the improvement of postural control measured by the Trunk Control Test (TCT) on day 9 after admission. Secondary endpoint among others was improvement of arm function (measured with Motor Evaluation Scale for Upper Extremity in Stroke Patients [MESUPES]).

Results

Forty patients (20 per group) were randomised into the trial. Median age was 75 (66–80) years, 50% were women. The median improvement in TCT within 9 days was 25.5 points (=25.5%) (interquartile range [IQR] 12.5–42.5) in the Vojta group and 0 (IQR 0–13) in the control group (p = 0.001). Patients treated with Vojta therapy achieved a greater improvement in the MESUPES than patients in the control group (20% vs 10%, p = 0.006).

Conclusion

This first randomised controlled trial of Vojta therapy in acute stroke patients demonstrates improvement of postural control through Vojta therapy compared to standard physiotherapy. Although this trial has some methodical weaknesses, Vojta therapy might be a promising approach in early stroke rehabilitation and should be studied in larger trials.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03035968. Registered 30 January 2017 – Retrospectively registered; http://www.clinicaltrials.gov.
Identity of cheese: a research on the cheeses of the Aegean Region in Turkey
Authors: Keskin Emrah , Dağ Tuğba
Published: August 2020

Cheese, which has a deep-rooted history, is a food product that reflects the cultural memory and history of communities, besides being a method of preserving milk. Cheese varieties differ according to the cultural structure of the countries, climatic conditions, animal diversity, and production techniques. Different types of cheese are produced in different ways in different geographical regions of Turkey. The Aegean Region, one of the geographical regions in Turkey, stands out with its unique cheese varieties. The current study aims to identify cheeses produced in the Aegean Region and to discuss them in the context of gastronomy tourism and cultural heritage. For this purpose, a document analysis was carried out in order to provide information about the identification and production methods of cheeses specific to the Aegean Region. As a result of the review of the documents, cheeses peculiar to the region were put forward.
A new borne with very complex aortic anatomy: diagnosis and treatment challenge—case report
Authors: Mansour Amr
Published: August 2020

Background

Interrupted aortic arch (IAA) is a congenital malformation of the aortic arch which involves 3 out of 1 million live births. This congenital anomaly rarely occurs as an isolated lesion and is often associated with other intracardiac malformations, most commonly ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The diagnosis and surgical treatment of aortic interruption is usually challenging and may require multiple operations throughout the patient’s life.

Case presentation

This case represents a neonate with interrupted aortic arch (type B) and a very long segment of descending aorta hypoplasia and complex anatomy. The patient escaped early diagnosis at birth and presented few days later by a picture that mimicked severe sepsis and shock.

His aortic anatomy was very complex and he was treated with long extra-anatomical aortic interposition graft.

Conclusion

Aortic interruption is a rare congenital anomaly and is considered an extreme form of aortic coarctation.

It sometimes escapes early diagnosis due to the presence of patent ductus arteriosus and present later with shock and lactic acidosis. Sometimes the aortic anatomy is very complex and requires unusual surgical techniques for its repair.
Prospective Longitudinal Assessment of Linear Growth and Adult Height in Female Adolescents With Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Modan-Moses Dalit , Yaroslavsky Amit , Pinhas-Hamiel Orit , Levy-Shraga Yael , Kochavi Brigitte , Iron-Segev Sharon , Enoch-Levy Adi , Toledano Anat , Stein Daniel
Published: August 2020

Context

Growth retardation is an established complication of anorexia nervosa (AN); however, findings concerning the adult height of AN patients are inconsistent.

Objective

The objective of this work was to assess linear growth and adult height in female adolescents with AN.

Design and Setting

A prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary university hospital.

Participants

Participants included all 255 female adolescent AN patients hospitalized in the pediatric psychosomatic department between January 1, 2000 and May 31, 2015.

Interventions

Height and weight were assessed at admission and during hospitalization. Patients were subsequently invited for measurement of adult height. Additional data collected included premorbid height data, menstrual history, skeletal age, pertinent laboratory studies, and parental heights.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome measure of this study was adult height.

Results

Mean age at admission was 15.4 ± 1.75 years, mean body mass index (BMI) was 15.7 ± 1.8 kg/m2 (BMI SDS = –2.3 ± 1.45 kg/m2). Premorbid height SD scores (SDS) were not significantly different from those expected in normal adolescents (0.005 ± 0.96). However, height SDS at admission (–0.36 ± 0.99), discharge (–0.34 ± 0.96), and at adult height (–0.29 ± 0.95), were significantly (P < .001) lower than expected. Furthermore, adult height was significantly (P = .006) shorter compared to the midparental target height. Stepwise forward linear regression analysis identified age (r = 0.32, P = .002) and bone age (r = –0.29, P = .006) on admission, linear growth during hospitalization (r = 0.47, P < .001), and change in luteinizing hormone during hospitalization (r = –0.265, P = .021) as independent predictors of improvement in height SDS from the time of admission to adult height.

Conclusions

Whereas the premorbid height of female adolescent AN patients is normal, linear growth retardation is a prominent feature of their illness. Weight restoration is associated with catch-up growth, but complete catch-up is often not achieved.
A Comparison of Adrenalectomy and Eplerenone on Vascular Function in Patients with Aldosterone-producing Adenoma
Authors: Kishimoto Shinji , Oki Kenji , Maruhashi Tatsuya , Kajikawa Masato , Hashimoto Haruki , Takaeko Yuji , Harada Takahiro , Yamaji Takayuki , Han Yiming , Kihara Yasuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Goto Chikara , Yusoff Farina Mohamad , Nakashima Ayumu , Higashi Yukihito
Published: August 2020

Context

It remains unclear whether adrenalectomy has more beneficial effects than treatment with a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist on vascular function in patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA).

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of adrenalectomy and treatment with eplerenone on vascular function in patients with APA.

Design, Setting, and Patients

Flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), as an index of endothelium-dependent vasodilation, and nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation (NID), as an index of endothelium-independent vasodilation, were measured to assess vascular function before and after a 3-month treatment with eplerenone and at 3 months after adrenalectomy in 23 patients with APA.

Results

Flow-mediated vasodilation and NID after adrenalectomy were significantly higher than those before treatment with eplerenone (5.4 ± 2.6% vs 2.7 ± 1.9% and 14.8 ± 4.7% vs 9.6 ± 4.6%, P < 0.01, respectively) and those after treatment with eplerenone (5.4 ± 2.6% vs 3.1 ± 2.3% and 14.8 ± 4.7% vs 11.0 ± 5.3%, P < 0.01 and P = 0.03, respectively), while treatment with eplerenone did not alter FMD and NID compared with those before treatment with eplerenone. After adrenalectomy, the increase in FMD and NID were significantly correlated with a decrease in plasma aldosterone concentration and a decrease in the aldosterone-renin ratio. There were no significant relationships between FMD and changes in other parameters or between NID and changes in other parameters.

Conclusions

Adrenalectomy, but not treatment with eplerenone, improved vascular function in patients with APA. Adrenalectomy may be more effective than treatment with eplerenone for reducing the incidence of future cardiovascular events in patients with APA.

Clinical Trial Information: URL for the clinical trial: http://UMIN; Registration Number for the clinical trial: UMIN000003409.
Circulating Thyroid Hormone Profile in Response to a Triiodothyronine Challenge in Familial Longevity
Authors: Zutinic Ana , Blauw Gerard J , Pijl Hanno , Ballieux Bart E , Westendorp Rudi G J , Roelfsema Ferdinand , van Heemst Diana
Published: August 2020

Context

Familial longevity is associated with higher circulating levels of thyrotropin (TSH), in the absence of differences in circulating thyroid hormones, and a lower thyroid responsivity to TSH, as previously observed in the Leiden Longevity Study (LLS). Further mechanisms underlying these observations remain unknown.

Objective

We hypothesized that members from long-lived families (offspring) have higher thyroid hormone turnover or less negative feedback effect on TSH secretion compared to controls.

Methods

In a case-control intervention study, 14 offspring and 13 similarly aged controls received 100 µg 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3) orally. Their circulating T3, free T3 (fT3), and TSH levels were measured during 5 consecutive days. We compared profiles of circulating T3, fT3, and TSH between offspring and controls using general linear modeling (GLM) and calculated the percentage decline in TSH following T3 administration.

Results

Circulating T3 and fT3 levels increased to supraphysiologic values and normalized over the course of 5 days. There were no serious adverse events. T3 and fT3 concentration profiles over 5 days were similar between offspring and controls (T3 GLM P = .11, fT3 GLM P = .46). TSH levels decreased in a biphasic manner and started returning to baseline by day 5. The TSH concentration profile over 5 days was similar between offspring and controls (GLM P = .08), as was the relative TSH decline (%).

Conclusions

Members of long-lived families have neither higher T3 turnover nor diminished negative feedback of T3 on TSH secretion. The cause and biological role of elevated TSH levels in familial longevity remain to be elucidated.
Cercosporamide inhibits bone morphogenetic protein receptor type I kinase activity in zebrafish
Authors: Hoeksma Jelmer , van der Zon Gerard C. M. , ten Dijke Peter , den Hertog Jeroen
Published: August 2020

Zebrafish models are well-established tools for investigating the underlying mechanisms of diseases. Here, we identified cercosporamide, a metabolite from the fungus Ascochyta aquiliqiae, as a potent bone morphogenetic protein receptor (BMPR) type I kinase inhibitor through a zebrafish embryo phenotypic screen. The developmental defects in zebrafish, including lack of the ventral fin, induced by cercosporamide were strikingly similar to the phenotypes caused by renowned small-molecule BMPR type I kinase inhibitors and inactivating mutations in zebrafish BMPRs. In mammalian cell-based assays, cercosporamide blocked BMP/SMAD-dependent transcriptional reporter activity and BMP-induced SMAD1/5-phosphorylation. Biochemical assays with a panel of purified recombinant kinases demonstrated that cercosporamide directly inhibited kinase activity of type I BMPRs [also called activin receptor-like kinases (ALKs)]. In mammalian cells, cercosporamide selectively inhibited constitutively active BMPR type I-induced SMAD1/5 phosphorylation. Importantly, cercosporamide rescued the developmental defects caused by constitutively active Alk2 in zebrafish embryos. We believe that cercosporamide could be the first of a new class of molecules with potential to be developed further for clinical use against diseases that are causally linked to overactivation of BMPR signaling, including fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Different microcircuit responses to comparable input from a one vs. both copies of an identified projection neuron
Authors: Colton Gabriel F. , Cook Aaron P. , Nusbaum Michael P.
Published: August 2020

Neuronal inputs to microcircuits are often present as multiple copies of apparently equivalent neurons. Thus far, however, little is known regarding the relative influence on microcircuit output of activating all or only some copies of such an input. We are examining this issue in the crab (Cancer borealis) stomatogastric ganglion, where the gastric mill (chewing) microcircuit is activated by MCN1, a bilaterally paired modulatory projection neuron. Both MCN1s contain the same cotransmitters, influence the same gastric mill microcircuit neurons, can drive the biphasic gastric mill rhythm, and are co-activated by all identified MCN1-activating pathways. Here, we determine whether the gastric mill microcircuit response is equivalent when stimulating one or both MCN1s under conditions where the pair are matched to collectively fire at the same overall rate and pattern as single MCN1 stimulation. The dual MCN1 stimulations elicited more consistently coordinated rhythms, and these rhythms exhibited longer phases and cycle periods. These different outcomes from single and dual MCN1 stimulation may have resulted from the relatively modest, and equivalent, firing rate of the gastric mill neuron LG during each matched set of stimulations. The LG neuron-mediated, ionotropic inhibition of the MCN1 axon terminals is the trigger for the transition from the retraction to protraction phase. This LG neuron influence on MCN1 was more effective during the dual stimulations, where each MCN1 firing rate was half that occurring during the matched single stimulations. Thus, equivalent individual- and co-activation of a class of modulatory projection neurons does not necessarily drive equivalent microcircuit output.
CERN
Authors: Melissourgos D. , Mexis P. , Stefanopoulou S.
Published: August 2020

As a team, we decided to elaborate on the CERN center for scientific research. We are going to refer to topics such as; the history of the institute, the countries that have participated in the foundation of CERN, the main projects that take place there and lastly the contribution of our country, Greece,  in the scientific research taking place there.
Chromatin remodelling comes into focus
Authors: Sundaramoorthy Ramasubramian , Owen-Hughes Tom
Published: August 2020

ATP-dependent chromatin remodelling enzymes are molecular machines that act to reconfigure the structure of nucleosomes. Until recently, little was known about the structure of these enzymes. Recent progress has revealed that their interaction with chromatin is dominated by ATPase domains that contact DNA at favoured locations on the nucleosome surface. Contacts with histones are limited but play important roles in modulating activity. The ATPase domains do not act in isolation but are flanked by diverse accessory domains and subunits. New structures indicate how these subunits are arranged in multi-subunit complexes providing a framework from which to understand how a common motor is applied to distinct functions.
Anti-retroviral therapy after “Treat All” in Harare, Zimbabwe: What are the changes in uptake, time to initiation and retention?
Authors: Matare Takura , Shewade Hemant Deepak , Ncube Ronald T. , Masunda Kudzai , Mukeredzi Innocent , Takarinda Kudakwashe C. , Dzangare Janet , Gonese Gloria , Khabo Bekezela B. , Choto Regis C. , Apollo Tsitsi
Published: August 2020

Background: In Zimbabwe, Harare was the first province to implement “Treat All” for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV). Since its roll out in July 2016, no study has been conducted to assess the changes in key programme indicators. We compared antiretroviral therapy (ART) uptake, time to ART initiation from diagnosis, and retention before and during “Treat All”.

Methods: We conducted an ecological study to assess ART uptake among all PLHIV newly diagnosed before and during “Treat All”. We conducted a cohort study to assess time to ART initiation and retention in care among all PLHIV newly initiated on ART from all electronic patient management system-supported sites (n=50) before and during “Treat All”.

Results: ART uptake increased from 65% (n=4619) by the end of quarter one, 2014 to 85% (n=5152) by the end of quarter four, 2018.  A cohort of 2289 PLHIV was newly initiated on ART before (April-June 2015) and 1682 during “Treat all” (April-June 2017). Their age and gender distribution was similar. The proportion of PLHIV in early stages of disease was significantly higher during “Treat all” (73.2% vs. 55.6%, p<0.001). The median time to ART initiation was significantly lower during “Treat All” (31 vs. 88 days, p<0.001). Cumulative retention at three, six and 12 months was consistently lower during “Treat all” and was significant at six months (74.9% vs.78.1% p=0.022).

Conclusion: Although there were benefits of early ART initiation during “Treat All”, the programme should consider strategies to improve retention.
As Representações Sociais sobre a Maternidade para Mães em Privação de Liberdade
Authors: Pinto Adriele Vieira de Lima , Coutinho Maria da Penha De Lima , Cavalcanti Jaqueline Gomes , Silva Karla Costa
Published: August 2020

Diante do aumento do encarceramento feminino, ganharam visibilidade questões específicas deste público, dentre elas as relacionadas à maternidade. Este estudo objetivou conhecer a vivência da maternidade para mães privadas de liberdade, a partir do aporte teórico das Representações Sociais. Participaram 15 mães, com idade entre 21 e 44 anos (M=30,47; DP=6,25) do Centro de Ressocialização Feminino de João Pessoa, Paraíba. Foram submetidas a entrevistas em profundidade e ao questionário sóciodemográfico. A produção textual foi processada com o auxílio do software ALCESTE e analisadas pela Classificação Hierárquica Descendente, os dados sóciodemográficos por meio do SPSS (versão 21). Dos resultados, emergiram quatro classes temáticas, ancoradas: na vivência e rotina diária na prisão; no conhecimento sobre processos, sentenças e morosidade da justiça; nas vulnerabilidades para o uso de substâncias psicoativas e suas consequências nas relações familiares; e na vivência da maternidade. Ser mãe, neste contexto, foi objetivado como sinônimo de sofrimento, incerteza e culpa pela ausência nos cuidados maternos e pela separação dos filhos e familiares. Destaca-se que a maternidade adquire diferentes facetas que ora se aproximam e ora se distanciam do ideal de maternidade socialmente disseminado. Assim, faz-se necessário promover ações sociais que busquem fortalecer os laços psicossociais entre as mães presas, suas famílias, filhos e sociedade.
A Culpa na Política Brasileira Atual: O que nos Ensinam Freud e Hannah Arendt?
Authors: Rodrigues Bianca Ferreira , Morganti Juliana , Silva Ana Carolina Dias
Published: August 2020

Este trabalho tem por objetivo apresentar reflexões sobre possíveis aproximações entre psicanálise e política a partir das considerações teóricas de Freud e Hannah Arendt e entender como essas nos auxiliam na compreensão do cenário político brasileiro atual. Elegemos como chave de leitura a noção de sentimento de culpa em Freud e a concepção arendtiana de política como espaço da diferença e da liberdade. Desenvolvemos assim, um percurso reflexivo partindo das postulações freudianas sobre a organização social, o que nos possibilitou estabelecer uma relação entre culpa e laço social. Em seguida, nos debruçamos sobre a concepção política em Hannah Arendt, buscando avançar no entendimento do espaço político como lugar de tensão de forças entre individual e plural, entre o exercício da liberdade e a tentativa de supressão dessa. Por fim, nos dedicamos a pensar sobre o lugar da culpa na atualidade da política brasileira, levando em consideração os movimentos de polarização e ascensão de discursos de ódio. Dessa forma, localizamos na interface entre política e psicanálise a questão da culpa como elemento fundamental para a compreensão da formação dos laços sociais e para o avanço das análises dos movimentos de destituição simbólica do poder no cenário político atual.
A Memória das Comunidades Eclesiais de Base à Luz da Psicologia da Libertação
Authors: Pamplona Pablo , Mendes Carlos Eduardo
Published: August 2020

A memória das lutas populares anda de par com a conscientização política da sociedade e, nesse sentido, a pesquisa com memória pode oferecer contribuições importantes para novas lutas emergentes. Neste artigo visamos discutir a relevância da reconstrução da memória política das Comunidades Eclesiais de Base (CEBs) no contexto brasileiro a partir de um desdobramento teórico de sugestões práticas feitas por Ignacio Martín-Baró. Destacamos a importância de um movimento social que emergiu das CEBs para o processo de redemocratização brasileira na década de 1980. Com aportes da Psicologia da Libertação, argumentamos que a reconstrução da memória das CEBs pode contribuir: (1) para a construção de movimentos sociais de resistência contra os recentes ataques aos direitos, oferecendo importantes lições sobre as suas formas de luta; (2) para desfazer mitos sobre a experiência das camadas populares na ditadura (1964-1985), mostrando que a resistência contra o regime militar não era exclusividade da esquerda tradicional, mas também contava com a revolta de populações periféricas; e (3) para reafirmar as virtudes populares, em particular a capacidade inventiva do povo na organização e mobilização por novas formas de relações sociais. Com isso, na linha de Martín-Baró, reivindicamos um lugar para a psicologia junto às maiorias populares.
A RECRIAÇÃO DISCURSIVA DA TECNOLOGIA EM OSWALD DE ANDRADE: uma leitura não convencional
Authors: Fanini Angela Maria Rubel
Published: August 2020

A pesquisa focou a questão da tecnologia importada trazida para o Brasil, mormente da Europa, no período da República Velha e investigou como Oswald de Andrade integrou discursivamente essa realidade tecnológica em sua obra Manifesto Pau-Brasil (1924). Oswald recria essa realidade de maneira dialógica, elaborando um retrato do país em que a cor local se manifesta a partir das tradições que remontam ao passado colonial e imperial, abarcando também uma certa cultura popular e do cotidiano em que a religiosidade, as crenças, as superstições entram em confronto e em sintonia com a modernidade tecnológica. Desse confronto surge uma certa identidade nacional fruto de dimensões polarizadas, mas que se interpenetram, sem se excluírem. O recurso da dialogia é intensificado por uma perspectiva antropofágica e carnavalizada em que se manifestam os impasses e disjunções dessa polarização, como também de sua orgânica coexistência. Exploramos a articulação entre universo técnico e linguagem literária, tema pouco tratado nas leituras críticas da área de Letras.
Um Rosa cor-de-rosa?
Authors: Silva David Lopes da
Published: August 2020

A partir de coleção de biografemas de Guimarães Rosa – tomado aqui como personagem de seu próprio projeto singularíssimo de cruzamento de vida e obra – o conto “Os chapéus transeuntes” é lido como performance autoficcional; isto é, a escritura dessa estória pode ter servido de gesto de confissão e contrição do próprio Rosa, que assim expiaria seu pecado maior: a Soberba. A hipótese da pesquisa é que existe em vigência no aparato crítico um Rosa cor-de-rosa, tanto no sentido de atenuar sua “fala narcísica” (CHAUVIN, 2020), como no de obliterar a tradicional relação dessa cor à feminilidade. Na conclusão, aventam-se algumas questões sobre o autor talvez ainda não devidamente respondidas.