bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prognostic importance of VEGF-A, PDGF-BB and c-MET in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Inanc Mevlude , Sirakaya Hatice Aslan , Karaman Hatice , Bozkurt Oktay
Published: February 2020

Introduction

We aimed to assess the effect of VEGF-A, PDGF-BB, and c-Met expression levels on survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer receiving bevacizumab therapies.

Patients and methods

A total of 105 patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer between the years 2006 and 2016 were included in the research retrospectively.

Results

The progression-free survival (PFS) durations of patients with high expression levels of VEGF-A and with low expression levels of VEGF-A were 11 months and 10 months (p = 0.44), respectively. The PFS durations of patients with high PDGF-BB expression and low PDGF-BB expression were 12 months and 10 months (p = 0.16), respectively, while the PFS durations of patients with high and low c-Met expression were 8 months and 13 months (p = 0.005), respectively. Metastatic overall survival was 27 months and 18 months (p = 0.05) in patients with high and low VEGF-A expression levels, respectively, 31 months and 21 months (p = 0.16) in patients with high and low PDGF-BB expression levels, respectively, and 21 months and 26 months (p = 0.11) in patients with high and low c-Met expression levels, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of this research revealed a high c-Met expression relationship with worse PFS and low VEGF-A expression associated with poor metastatic overall survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer receiving bevacizumab therapies.
Selective Arterial Embolizations of Renal Angiomyolipomas Using 96% Ethanol: A Case Series of 5 Patients
Authors: Rosenov Alexander , Schindewolf Marc , Baumgartner Iris , Saely Christoph
Published: February 2020

Angiomyolipomas are rare benign tumors of the kidneys, with a risk of spontaneous hemorrhage including severe retroperitoneal bleedings. In this study, we report clinical outcomes of 5 patients who underwent 8 embolization sessions using 96% ethanol, as there is scarce data using this embolic agent for this indication. The primary angiographic success could be achieved in all but 1 lesion, which was not accessible due to vasospasm of the supplying vessel. Therapeutic success could be demonstrated in all treated cases for which follow-up imaging was available (n = 3). In 1 complex patient, a mildly reduced renal function, as well as a new onset of arterial hypertension was detected after treatment. Nontarget embolization of vital kidney tissue was demonstrated in another patient; it remained asymptomatic. Embolization therapy using 96% ethanol is an optional method to treat renal angiomyolipomas.
Human-induced vibration of cold-formed steel floor systems: Parametric studies
Authors: Zhang Sigong , Xu Lei
Published: February 2020

Designing a lightweight floor to prevent annoying vibrations induced by human activities is still a challenge because numerous factors need to be considered. In consequence, there is still a lack of reliable models and adequate design guidelines pertinent to the vibration serviceability of cold-formed steel floor systems. To facilitate understanding the fundamental concepts of lightweight floor vibrations for serviceability design, a newly proposed damped plate-oscillator model was adopted in this research to predict dynamic responses of cold-formed steel floors induced by human walking. Three loading methods were developed based on this model. By using these loading methods, comprehensive parametric studies involving step frequencies, mass ratios, damping ratios, walking paths and end-support restraints were conducted. The present analytical studies show that the influence of moving or stationary occupants depends on the mass ratio of occupants to the floor and its significance could be negligible for small mass ratios. In addition, the boundary restraints at floor end-supports may not always reduce floor responses. On the contrary, relatively larger responses could be excited by human walking for the restrained floors having the fundamental frequency close to the multiple of the footstep frequency.
Selection of earthquake ground motion accelerograms for structural design in Hong Kong
Authors: Yi Jiang , Lam Nelson , Tsang Hing-Ho , Au Francis TK
Published: February 2020

Hong Kong is situated in an intraplate area of low to moderate seismicity, where recorded strong-motion accelerograms are scarce. As part of the seismic design process, dynamic time-history analysis is sometimes required for assessing the seismic performance of structures. Hence, earthquake accelerograms representative of various local design hazard levels are needed. This study aims to develop a methodology for building up a database of earthquake accelerograms for the Hong Kong region which can be used for the analysis and design of a variety of structural and geotechnical systems. An outline of the previous probabilistic seismic hazard analysis studies conducted for Hong Kong is first presented and several design earthquake scenarios are determined, which contribute most to the local seismic hazard given a specific return period. The median response spectra and conditional mean spectra of the selected earthquake scenarios for reference rock sites are then derived based on the component attenuation model. The conditional mean spectra are then used as the target spectra for the selection and scaling of recorded accelerograms sourced from the available global database. Finally, a suite of conditional mean spectra–compatible accelerograms for rock sites is presented, from which event-specific and site-specific accelerograms are generated through dynamic site response analysis.
Online verbal aggression, social relationships, and self-efficacy beliefs
Authors: Ferreira Paula da Costa , Veiga Simão Ana Margarida , Pereira Nadia Salgado , Paulino Paula , Oliveira Sofia
Published: February 2020

This study aims to understand whether the relationships adolescent bystanders of cyberbullying have with the victim and other bystanders and their self-efficacy beliefs may affect their use of aggressive language online. Students (676, Mage = 14.10, SD = 2.74, 55.5% male) answered questions about social media use, self-efficacy to solve cyberbullying situations, interpersonal relationships, and their use of verbal aggression to communicate online. Through structural equation modeling, results demonstrated that having a relationship with the victim or other bystanders mediated the relationship between observing cyberbullying behavior and bystanders’ use of aggressive language online. The effect of observing cyberbullying behavior through having a relationship with the victim or other bystanders was lower than its direct effect on adolescent bystanders’ use of aggressive language. Self-efficacy beliefs mediated the relationship between having a relationship with the victim and other bystanders and adolescents’ use of aggressive language online. Implications for intervention in interpersonal communication online are proposed.
Digital media’s discursive strategies against anabolic-androgenic steroids: A corpus-assisted discourse analysis
Authors: Kijratanakoson Nattawaj
Published: February 2020

The purposes of this study are twofold. First, it investigates how the digital media discursively react against the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Second, it examines how Thailand is portrayed as a venue for steroid holiday among recreational bodybuilders from the Western countries. Adhering to the principle of theoretical triangulation, the study employs two frameworks including Reisigl and Wodak’s discursive strategies and Van Dijk’s ideological structures. The methodology undertaken is a corpus-assisted discourse analysis. The corpus contains 100 articles published on various websites between the period of 2014 and 2019 with the total number of 107,116 words. Main findings indicate that, regarding the first purpose, the media portray AAS as the ‘outgroup’ by employing various negative lexical items while attempting to dilute any claimed benefits. Concerning the second purpose, Thailand is represented as a venue in which AAS are easily available coupled with corrupt dealers and lax regulations.
A new method for preparing needle-free cylindrical nozzle nanofibers
Authors: Shi Hao , Niu Pingjuan , Ning Pingfan , Wang Shan
Published: February 2020

Aiming at the traditional single-needle electrospinning technology, a novel system for the efficient production of multi-production nanofibers through electrospinning is reported. The polymer solution is delivered to the liquid tank, and when the applied voltage exceeds a certain value, a plurality of nozzles is formed. In this paper, the electric field distribution of pinhole cylindrical spinneret structure is studied by simulating the electric field intensity with finite element software. The diameter and yield of the nanofibers were investigated by varying the center electrode voltage and the annular collector radius. The results show that the diameter and productivity of nanofibers are affected by the electric field intensity around the spinneret. Increasing the applied voltage and collecting distance has some significant effect on the diameter of nanofibers. The diameter of nanofibers increases with the concentration of the solution. The maximum yield of nanofibers is 3.1 g/h. It is noteworthy that this method not only greatly improves productivity but also significantly reduces the influence of solvent evaporation during electrospinning. This spinning method provides support for large-scale production of nanofibers in the future. This will be conducive to the further development of electrospinning, increase production, and more accurate control.
“Our Voter Rolls Are Cleaner Than Yours”: Balancing Access and Integrity in Voter List Maintenance
Authors: Merivaki Thessalia
Published: February 2020

Accurate voter lists facilitate access to the electoral process, indicate efficient voter list maintenance, and reinforce electoral integrity. Errors in voter records often result from variation in practices that are difficult to avoid given the decentralized structure of election administration in the United States. In many states, localities lack capacity to efficiently complete voter list maintenance, especially when pressured to keep “clean” voter rolls. I argue that local challenges remain when maintaining voters’ registration and voting history information, which undermines the quality of voter lists and the integrity of the electoral process. I analyze Mississippi’s Statewide Election Management System (SEMS) records and find that voter registration and voting history errors are linked to the county’s active and inactive registered voter rates and demographic characteristics. These findings confirm that local variation in voter list maintenance can impact voters depending on their voter registration status and can result in premature voter list removal.
Phenotype to Genotype and Back Again
Authors: Mefford Heather C.
Published: February 2020

[Box: see text]
The Devil’s in the Details: How to Harness Inhibition for Seizure Control
Authors: Krook-Magnuson Esther
Published: February 2020

[Box: see text]
Do Interictal Rates Influence Treatment Outcomes in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy?
Authors: King-Stephens David
Published: February 2020

[Box: see text]
A scheme for stimulating message relaying cooperation
Authors: Lin Haifeng , Zhang Fuquan
Published: February 2020

It is expected that all the nodes try their best to store and forward the messages in the intermittent connection network. However, due to the limited resources, such as memory, power, and transient communication chance, selfish nodes may relay the messages without responsibility. Stimulating selfish to behave normally could improve network performance. However, usually, it is difficult to distinguish the selfish behavior from the inability to relaying the message. By monitoring the behavior of relay nodes that messages are forwarding through, this article proposes a scheme that relays messages according to the reputation of intermediate nodes. The proposed reputation estimation scheme combines selfish behavior and inability behavior, and reveals very little private information for the protocol practice. There is a trade-off between the threshold and the performance. Too low value may not distinguish the selfish nodes. On the contrary, some normal nodes may excluded and cannot join the relaying and processing. Simulation effectively demonstrates that the reputation affects the node’s performance, and an appropriate reputation threshold value is useful for improving the network performance.
Reasons for Undergoing CT During Childhood: Can CT-Exposed and CT-Naive Populations Be Compared?
Authors: Shibata Shunsuke , Shibamoto Yuta , Maehara Megumi , Hobo Ayano , Hotta Naohide , Ozawa Yoshiyuki
Published: February 2020

Several epidemiological studies suggested an increased risk of cancer and other tumors in individuals undergoing computed tomography (CT) examination during childhood; however, it was questioned whether the group undergoing CT was comparable to that not undergoing CT. To address this issue, we investigated the reasons for undergoing CT in 763 children aged 0 to 19 years in 2013. Their medical records were fully evaluated and symptoms, underlying conditions, reasons for CT, and clinical courses after CT were investigated. Among the 763 children, 66.1% underwent repeat CT after the first examination, and 19.3% underwent CT 8 times or more. Among all the examined children, 8.8% had cancer and 4.7% had cancer-prone conditions such as Down syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, and cirrhosis. Only 11.4% of the 763 children underwent CT because of trauma, and 32.2% of the children had some types of congenital anomaly. The rate of trauma decreased with an increase in the frequency of CT examinations. Since the incidence of congenital anomalies is below 2.5% in the general population, it was concluded that the population of children undergoing CT is completely different from that not undergoing CT. The 2 groups should not be compared.
Predictors of long-term outcomes after polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent-graft repair of peripheral arterial aneurysms, pseudo-aneurysms, and arterio-venous fistulas
Authors: Topcuoglu Osman Melih , Altay Cetin Murat , Alpar Ayhan , Kucukay Fahrettin
Published: February 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the primary patency rate at three years for the infra-aortic peripheral arterial pathologies treated with polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent-grafts.

Methods

Patients treated with self-expandable polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent-grafts for infra-aortic peripheral arterial aneurysms, pseudo-aneurysms, and arterio-venous fistulas were evaluated retrospectively. A total of 48 patients (35 male, 13 female; mean age: 53.8 ± 13.5) were included with 29.0 ± 16.5 months (median 27, range 4–70) mean follow-up period. The primary objective was to determine the primary patency rate at three years. The secondary objectives were to compare type and localization of pathology, and length and diameter of the stent-grafts with primary patency rate. Kaplan–Meier test was used as the main statistical method.

Results

Overall mean primary patency rate at three years was 77.10%. Polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent-graft implantation in aneurysms had worse primary patency rate than pseudo-aneurysms and arterio-venous fistulas (66.6%, P = 0.03; 76.9%, P = 0.03; 88.2%, P = 0.01, respectively). Stent-graft location, length, and diameter are not associated with primary patency rate ( P > 0.05) but stent diameter is associated with better primary assisted and secondary patency rates ( P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Pathology of the lesion is associated with the long-term primary patency rate of polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent-grafts but not the stent-graft location, length, or diameter. Stent diameter is associated with primary assisted and secondary patency rates.
Changes and significance of T helper-9 cells and interleukin-9 in patients with atherosclerotic chronic lower limb ischemia: Effect on IL-17 release
Authors: Moaaz Mai , Lotfy Hassan
Published: February 2020

Objectives

Atherosclerosis is considered as a chronic inflammatory disorder where the central role of T cells in its pathogenesis is well known. T helper-9 cells have a distinctive effect upon the inflammatory processes. They stimulate macrophages via secretion of their cytokine interleukin-9. Based on its known involvement with other inflammatory disorders, we hypothesized that interleukin-9 might be associated with the inflammatory limb of peripheral atherosclerotic disease.

Methods

We tested this hypothesis on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and freshly resected arterial tissues from 84 patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and 50 non-atherosclerotic subjects. A number of experimental methods were used including flow cytometry analysis of T helper-9 cells using anti-CD3, anti-CD4, and anti-interleukin-9monoclonal antibodies as well as real-time polymerase chain reaction for the assessment of gene expression of interleukin-9. In addition, circulating serum levels of interleukin-9 were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. We also evaluated the ability of recombinant interleukin-9 to modulate IL-17 release in cultured isolated CD3+ T cells with relation to atherosclerotic disorder in vitro.

Results and conclusions

Here we report increased percentages of T helper-9 cells and interleukin-9 levels in patients with chronic lower limb atherosclerotic ischemia, compared to healthy controls. Through investigation of different atherosclerotic patient populations with different disease stages, we found elevated interleukin-9 level both systemically and within the lesion and increased expression of cells in severe disease stages. The current study also revealed enhanced expression of mRNA levels of interleukin-9 within the atherosclerotic lesion when compared with non-atherosclerotic vessels. Levels of released IL-17 in CD3+ T cell culture supernatants supplemented with interleukin-9 were significantly positively correlated in the enrolled patients. The results suggest a role for T helper-9 cells and IL-9 in atherosclerotic process, potentially involving IL-17-mediated mechanisms. Indeed, we found that interleukin-9 promoted IL-17 release in PBMCs, with a particularly marked response in severe disease.
Regulatory-grade clinical trial design using real-world data
Authors: Levenson Mark S
Published: February 2020

Real-world data and evidence provide the potential to address the effectiveness and safety of drugs. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has initiated a program to evaluate the potential use of real-world evidence for regulatory uses. Whether a study is designed for regulatory purposes or for other purposes, existing regulation and guidance provide a reference for high-quality studies. Clarifying the study objectives and the role of real-world data in the study are important considerations. Robustness and transparency of the analysis allow for greater understanding and acceptance of the study results.
A review of available software for adaptive clinical trial design
Authors: Grayling Michael John , Wheeler Graham Mark
Published: February 2020

Background/aims:

The increasing cost of the drug development process has seen interest in the use of adaptive trial designs grow substantially. Accordingly, much research has been conducted to identify barriers to increasing the use of adaptive designs in practice. Several articles have argued that the availability of user-friendly software will be an important step in making adaptive designs easier to implement. Therefore, we present a review of the current state of software availability for adaptive trial design.

Methods:

We review articles from 31 journals published in 2013–2017 that relate to methodology for adaptive trials to assess how often code and software for implementing novel adaptive designs is made available at the time of publication. We contrast our findings against these journals’ policies on code distribution. We also search popular code repositories, such as Comprehensive R Archive Network and GitHub, to identify further existing user-contributed software for adaptive designs. From this, we are able to direct interested parties toward solutions for their problem of interest.

Results:

Only 30% of included articles made their code available in some form. In many instances, articles published in journals that had mandatory requirements on code provision still did not make code available. There are several areas in which available software is currently limited or saturated. In particular, many packages are available to address group sequential design, but comparatively little code is present in the public domain to determine biomarker-guided adaptive designs.

Conclusions:

There is much room for improvement in the provision of software alongside adaptive design publications. In addition, while progress has been made, well-established software for various types of trial adaptation remains sparsely available.
Intermittent Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Expanding the Clinical Value of CGM
Authors: Ziegler Ralph , Heinemann Lutz , Freckmann Guido , Schnell Oliver , Hinzmann Rolf , Kulzer Bernd
Published: February 2020

In addition to the continuous use, the intermittent use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is an application of CGM, expanding the typical medical use cases. There are a variety of reasons and occasions that speak in favor of using CGM only for a limited time. To date, these circumstances have not been sufficiently discussed. In this article, we define discontinuous or intermittent CGM use, provide reasons for using it, and expand on the benefits and possibilities of using CGM on a temporary basis. We aim to draw attention to this important topic in the discussion of CGM use and give examples for a different method of CGM use. As well, we would like to foster the allocation of CGM to the right patient groups and indications, especially in cases of limited resources. From a global point of view, intermittent CGM use is more likely to occur than continuous use, primarily for economic reasons.
Culture Is Associated With the Experience of Long-Term Self-Concept Changes
Authors: Haas Brian W. , vanDellen Michelle R.
Published: February 2020

Cultural context can affect how changes in self-concepts are either valued or tolerated. However, very little is currently known regarding how culture may differentially confer consequences to people that change their self-concepts over the course of several years. We investigated the moderating role of culture (Japan and USA) on the link between long-term (∼4 years) self-concept changes and a comprehensive set of well-being measures (hedonic, eudaimonic, and family based). We found that American’s self-concept instability was more negatively associated with one’s well-being and emotional support within one’s family than Japanese. Furthermore, Americans were particularly negatively impacted when they became less agentic and conscientious over time. One possible interpretation is that Western, individualistic cultures may discourage people from changing their identities throughout their adult life. Although American culture often espouses the sanctity of freedom, American culture may also limit people’s freedom to change how they see themselves over time.
Empathic and Numerate Giving: The Joint Effects of Victim Images and Charity Evaluations
Authors: Bergh Robin , Reinstein David
Published: February 2020

Helping behaviors are often driven by emotional reactions to the suffering of particular individuals, but these behaviors do not seem to be upregulated when many people need help. In this article, we consider if these reactions are also “innumerate” to information about how charities spend their money. Across six experiments, we examined how images of identified victims interact with information about charity efficiency (money toward program) and effectiveness (program outcome). We further examined if the images primarily get people to donate (yes/no), while efficiency/effectiveness might provide a tuning mechanism for how much to give. Results showed that images influenced the propensity to donate and induced participants donate their full bonuses, indicating heuristic effects. Efficiency and effectiveness information had no effects on donations.
Rethinking the allocation criteria of the labour law rights and protections: A risk-based approach
Authors: Fusco Federico
Published: February 2020

The present paper investigates the ongoing validity of the notion of subordination as selection criteria to allocate the labour protections in the contemporary economic framework. The gig economy is deeply affecting the way of working, transforming the employee in a service provider. This phenomenon is partially due to the progressive shift from a firm-based production model towards a market transaction based one. Although its lawfulness is still unclear, it highlights that the way of working is changing in a way that struggles to fit into the classic legal categories. This is mainly due to the fact that the labour protections are usually bestowed moving from a notion of subordination highly focused on the organisational element. Thus, economic actors suffering from the same economic weakness of the employees, but organisationally independent, struggle to obtain the necessary protections.

Moving from those remarks the author suggests rethinking the allocation criteria of the labour protections, adopting economic weakness as the main criterion. This category should encompass all the individuals performing a working activity that are not able to significantly influence its financial outcome. The aim of such reform should be to extend the labour protections to all the subjects needing them.

The final part of the paper investigates the possible solutions under the current legal framework. The major finding is that under certain circumstances the gig workers can be qualified as temporary employees not of the platform, but of the contractor. In this scenario, the digital platforms should be deemed as job-placement service providers and, thus, they should comply with the relevant provisions. These include the eventual need of administrative authorisations and the free-of-charge principle, whose violations represent, in several jurisdictions, a criminal offence
Pharmacobiological management of hemostasis within clinical backgrounds via Ankaferd hemostat (Ankaferd blood stopper)
Authors: Ciftciler Rafiye , Ciftciler Ali Erdinc , Malkan Umit Yavuz , Haznedaroglu Ibrahim C
Published: February 2020

Ankaferd hemostat (Ankaferd blood stopper [ABS], Istanbul, Turkey) is a hemostatic agent affecting red blood cell-fibrinogen interactions. ABS has been traditionally used in Anatolia as a hemostatic agent for centuries. ABS contains a standardized combination of the plants namely Glycyrrhiza glabra, Thymus vulgaris, Alpinia officinarum, Vitis vinifera, and Urtica dioica. The hemostatic effect of ABS depends upon the quick promotion of a protein network, particularly fibrinogen gamma, in relation to the erythrocyte aggregation. The aim of this review is to indicate pharmacobiological basis and clinical backgrounds of ABS. Current perspective for using ABS is to provide hemostasis and accelerating wound healing particularly in cases which are difficult to manage. Future controlled trials are needed to elucidate the actions of ABS with in hemostasis, antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-infective, antifungal, and anti-oxidative effects.
Lobular breast carcinoma metastatic to the endometrium in a patient under tamoxifen therapy: A case report
Authors: Gomez Mariangela , Whitting Kerry , Naous Rana
Published: February 2020

Metastatic carcinomas to the uterus are rare and usually originate from nearby gynecologic sites, most commonly from the ovaries. Among non-gynecologic origins, breast tumors are the most frequent primaries, predominantly the lobular carcinoma type. A 69-year-old postmenopausal woman diagnosed with lobular breast carcinoma 5 years ago, status post modified radical mastectomy, and currently on tamoxifen therapy presented with post-menopausal bleeding. Subsequent endometrial biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic lobular breast carcinoma to the endometrium. Breast carcinomas rarely metastasize to the uterus, especially lobular carcinoma type. Abnormal uterine bleeding in a patient with known history of breast carcinoma and under tamoxifen therapy should prompt a complete diagnostic workup to rule out metastatic disease.
The association of perceived neighbourhood factors and social class with depressive symptoms among Grade 6 elementary school children in Jamaica
Authors: Chung Rachel , Lowe Gillian A , Lipps Garth E , Gibson Roger C
Published: February 2020

This project investigated the association between Jamaican school-age children’s perception of their communities and their levels of depressive symptoms. A cross-sectional survey of sixth-grade students from schools in Kingston, Jamaica was conducted. Results of correlational analyses indicated that there were significant associations between neighbourhood factors and depressive symptoms while multiple regression analyses suggested that neigbourhood factors and social class were predictive of children’s depressive symptoms. It appears that the perception of neighbourhood factors, particularly neighbourhood quality and network are associated with depressive symptom while neighbourhood factors may mediate the relationship between low social class and depressive symptoms.
Insecticidal activity of Lantana camara extract oil on controlling maize grain weevils
Authors: Ayalew Adane Adugna
Published: February 2020

Postharvest losses are known to be one of the serious constraints upon food security among farmers poor resource in Africa. The use of botanical insecticide in pest management during storage against weevils is often encouraged because synthetic insecticides produce multiple side effects on human and environment. In this study, the insecticidal property of methanol, ethanol, and ethyl acetate extracts of Lantana camara leaf oil and powder for controlling maize weevils, Sitophilus zeamais, was studied. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to identify the chemical composition and functional group of solvent extract, respectively. Adult weevil repellency and mortality were studied by the effect of oil concentration at 0% (w/w), 2% (w/w), 3% (w/w), 5% (w/w), 7% (w/w), and 10% (w/w). Repellency effect was also conducted at 6, 12, and 24 h. The number of weevil death increased significantly as exposed time was increased. The extracted oil by the three-solvent fraction had direct repellent and toxic effect to the weevil. From all treatment applied, extracted by methanol fraction had showed highest percentage mortality (74%). The lowest mortality rate was observed in ethyl acetate extract (26%) at 2% (w/w) concentration. The effect of leaf powder and extracted oil on repellency and mortality for insects was due to the presence of bioactive and phytochemical molecules such as Phytol, Pyrroline, Paromomycin, Pyrrolizin, and 1-Eicosano. It was concluded that both L. camara leaf powder and extract oil can be used for the protection of stored maize from infestation S. zeamais.
The load factor in bolted timber joints under external tensile loads
Authors: Matsubara Doppo , Wakashima Yoshiaki , Shimizu Hidemaru , Kitamori Akihisa
Published: February 2020

These experiments sought to empirically determine how the initial tightening force influences the ratio of the axial bolt force to the tensile load (load factor) and the load required to separate the joint interface (interface separation load) in tensile bolted joints of glued laminated timber. Load factor decreases with increasing initial tightening force; however, this tendency is reduced the greater the washer–member-end distance. In addition, tensile stiffness increases with decreasing load factor, and the interface separation load increases with increasing initial tightening force. However, in actual testing, the joint interface separated at a lower load that predicted mathematically based on the load factor and initial tightening force.
Altered expression levels of autophagy-associated proteins during exercise preconditioning indicate the involvement of autophagy in cardioprotection against exercise-induced myocardial injury
Authors: Yuan Jian-Qi , Yuan Yang , Pan Shan-Shan , Cai Ke
Published: February 2020

Exercise has been reported to induce autophagy. We hypothesized that exercise preconditioning (EP)-related autophagy in cardiomyocytes could be attributed to intermittent ischemia–hypoxia, allowing the heart to be protected for subsequent high-intensity exercise (HE). We applied approaches, chromotrope-2R brilliant green (C-2R BG) staining and plasma cTnI levels measuring, to characterize two periods of cardioprotection after EP: early EP (EEP) and late EP (LEP). Further addressing the relationship between ischemia–hypoxia and autophagy, key proteins, Beclin1, LC3, Cathepsin D, and p62, were determined by immunohistochemical staining, western blotting, and by their adjacent slices with C-2R BG. Results indicated that exercise-induced ischemia–hypoxia is a key factor in Beclin1-dependent autophagy. High-intensity exercise was associated with the impairment of autophagy due to high levels of LC3II and unchanged levels of p62, intermittent ischemia–hypoxia by EP itself plays a key role in autophagy, which resulted in more favorable cellular effects during EEP-cardioprotection compared to LEP.
Inducible nitric oxide synthase and systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pan Lu , Yang Sirui , Wang Jinghua , Xu Meng , Wang Shaofeng , Yi Huanfa
Published: February 2020

Background

There is a growing body of evidences indicating iNOS has involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. However, the role of iNOS in SLE is inconsistency. This systematic review was designed to evaluate the association between iNOS and SLE.

Results

Six studies were included, reporting on a total of 277 patients with SLE. The meta-analysis showed that SLE patients had higher expression of iNOS at mRNA level than control subjects (SMD = 2.671, 95%CI = 0.446–4.897, z = 2.35,p = 0.019), and a similar trend was noted at the protein level (SMD = 3.602, 95%CI = 1.144–6.059, z = 2.87,p = 0.004) and positive rate of iNOS (OR = 9.515, 95%CI = 1.915–47.281, z = 2.76,p = 0.006) were significantly higher in SLE group compared with control group. No significant difference was observed on serum nitrite level between SLE patients and control subjects (SMD = 2.203, 95%CI = -0.386–4.793, z = 1.64,p = 0.095). The results did not modify from different sensitivity analysis, representing the robustness of this study. No significant publication bias was detected from Egger’s test.

Conclusions

There was a positive correlation between increasing iNOS and SLE. However, the source of iNOS is unknown. Besides NO pathway, other pathways also should be considered. More prospective random studies are needed in order to certify our results.
Crosstalk in the darkness: bulb vernalization activates meristem transition via circadian rhythm and photoperiodic pathway
Authors: Ben Michael Tomer E. , Faigenboim Adi , Shemesh-Mayer Einat , Forer Itzhak , Gershberg Chen , Shafran Hadass , Rabinowitch Haim D. , Kamenetsky-Goldstein Rina
Published: February 2020

Background

Geophytes possess specialized storage organs - bulbs, tubers, corms or rhizomes, which allow their survival during unfovarable periods and provide energy support for sprouting and sexual and vegetative reproduction. Bulbing and flowering of the geophyte depend on the combined effects of the internal and external factors, especially temperature and photoperiod. Many geophytes are extensively used in agriculture, but mechanisms of regulation of their flowering and bulbing are still unclear.

Results

Comparative morpho-physiological and transcriptome analyses and quantitative validation of gene expression shed light on the molecular regulation of the responses to vernalization in garlic, a typical bulbous plant. Long dark cold exposure of bulbs is a major cue for flowering and bulbing, and its interactions with the genetic makeup of the individual plant dictate the phenotypic expression during growth stage. Photoperiod signal is not involved in the initial nuclear and metabolic processes, but might play role in the later stages of development, flower stem elongation and bulbing. Vernalization for 12 weeks at 4 °C and planting in November resulted in flower initiation under short photoperiod in December–January, and early blooming and bulbing. In contrast, non-vernalized plants did not undergo meristem transition. Comparisons between vernalized and non-vernalized bulbs revealed ~ 14,000 differentially expressed genes.

Conclusions

Low temperatures stimulate a large cascades of molecular mechanisms in garlic, and a variety of flowering pathways operate together for the benefit of meristem transition, annual life cycle and viable reproduction results.The circadian clock appears to play a central role in the transition of the meristem from vegetative to reproductive stage in bulbous plant, serving as integrator of the low-temperature signals and the expression of the genes associated with vernalization, photoperiod and meristem transition. The reserved photoperiodic pathway is integrated at an upstream point, possibly by the same receptors. Therefore, in bulb, low temperatures stimulate cascades of developmental mechanisms, and several genetic flowering pathways intermix to achieve successful sexual and vegetative reproduction.
The methods and baseline characteristics of a VA randomized controlled study evaluating supported employment provided in primary care patient aligned care teams
Authors: Davis Lori L. , Blansett Catherine M. , Mumba Mercy N. , MacVicar David , Toscano Richard , Pilkinton Patricia , Gay Whitney , Bartolucci Al
Published: February 2020

Background

This article describes the design and baseline sample of a single-site trial comparing Individual Placement and Support (IPS) supported employment delivered within a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) primary care Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) to treatment-as-usual vocational rehabilitation (TAU-VR) that includes transitional work.

Methods

Unemployed U.S. military veterans receiving care in a VHA PACT who were seeking competitive work, otherwise eligible for vocational rehabilitation, and diagnosed with a mental health condition other than a psychotic or bipolar I disorder were prospectively randomized to receive either IPS or TAU-VR. Employment outcomes and measures of quality of life, self-esteem, and community reintegration are being collected for 12 months.

Results

The participant sample (n = 119) is comprised of 17.6% female, 73.1% African-Americans, and 1.7% Hispanic. Average age is 38.2 (SD ± 8.41) years; 80.7% served in the military since 2001; 78% are receiving or applying for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) service-connected disability; 26.9% have not held a competitive job in the past 3 years; and the average length of pre-randomization unemployment is 1.4 (SD ± 2.3) years.

Conclusions

Unique design features include evaluating the efficacy of evidenced-based IPS within the primary care setting, having broad diagnostic eligibility, and defining the primary outcome criterion as “steady employment”, i.e. holding a competitive job for ≥26 weeks of the 12-month follow-up period. The findings illustrate the characteristics of a primary care veteran sample in need of employment services.

Trial registration

www.clinicaltrials.govIdentifier: NCT02400736.
Audiovisual integrative training for augmenting cognitive- motor functions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Lee Leung-Pong , Har Afifah Wing-Yiu , Ngai Chun-Hei , Lai Daniel W. L. , Lam Bess Yin-Hung , Chan Chetwyn Che-Hin
Published: February 2020

Background

Previous studies indicated that the behavioral performances of older adults could be enhanced by multisensory integration. This pilot study tested the benefits of an audiovisual integrative (AV) training for improving the cognitive and upper limb motor functions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

Twenty participants, according to their MoCA scores, with ten in each of a MCI (mean age = 63.3 years) and healthy older adult group (mean age = 64.7 years), engaged in AV integrative training. They were recruited from the Institute of Active Ageing at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The screening was conducted from February to March 2018 and the training program which consisted of three sessions (2 h each) was conducted from 14-28th May 2018. Their executive function, attention and upper limb functions were measured by the Stroop Test and Purdue Pegboard Test respectively.

Results

The mixed linear model analysis results showed significant Time x Group interaction effects in the time used in the Stroop Test (dots) (p = 0.042) and the Purdue Pegboard scores (non-dominant hand use) (p = 0.025). The MCI group exhibited significantly more improvements in attentional control and non-dominant hand motor functions after the training.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the AV integrative training has the potential for enhancing the cognitive and motor functions of older adults with MCI. Furthermore, AV integrative training can serve as an alternative non-pharmacological intervention for combating neurodegeneration in older adults.

Trial registration

This study has been retrospectively registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry which is a World Health Organisation approved registry. Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials ChiCTR2000029408, January 29th, 2020.
Everyday challenges facing high-risk older people living in the community: a community-based participatory study
Authors: Okamura Tsuyoshi , Ura Chiaki , Sugiyama Mika , Ogawa Madoka , Inagaki Hiroki , Miyamae Fumiko , Edahiro Ayako , Kugimiya Yukiko , Okamura Mutsuko , Yamashita Mari , Awata Shuichi
Published: February 2020

Background

Considering the real-world experiences of those with cognitive impairments is important in building a positive community for older people. Community-based participatory research is an important methodology for investigators focused on improving community health. The aim of this study was to 1) investigate factors associated with the continuation of community dwelling among high-risk older people and 2) to create a model of an inclusive community space for older people in the largest housing complex district in Tokyo.

Methods

From 198 residents who completed all three steps (mail, face-to-face, and home-visit) of a previous large-scale epidemiological survey, we identified 66 residents who were at high-risk of moving out of the community. These participants underwent 6 months of regular assessments by experienced researchers to identify the factors associated with continuing to live in the community.

We also employed a community action approach to develop a community space for residents in the study district where more than two researchers who were medical professionals served as staff. The services offered by the space were continuously improved according to user feedback. The function of this center was evaluated during interdisciplinary research meetings.

Results

After 6 months, among the 66 high-risk residents, 49 people were living in the community and 12 people had moved out of the community. Those who could not continue to live in the community had greater unmet needs in terms of social support, especially daily living support and housing support. In addition, their families perceived a heavier burden of care. Interestingly, dementia diagnosis via the DSM-5, clinical dementia rating, physical health, mental health, and long-term care usage did not predict the outcome.

Through discussions with guests, we equipped the space with various services such as coordination of community care and networking with existing organizations.

Conclusions

Merely providing healthcare and long-term care might not be sufficient to support community living in people with cognitive impairments. Daily living support and housing support should be provided in the context of a broad health services package. For this purpose, creating a comfortable community space for residents and community workers is essential.
Mortality, complications and long-term functional outcome in elderly patients with fragility fractures of the acetabulum
Authors: Wollmerstädt Johannes , Pieroh Philipp , Schneider Isabell , Zeidler Suzanne , Höch Andreas , Josten Christoph , Osterhoff Georg
Published: February 2020

Background

Early operative treatment of acetabulum fractures in geriatric patients has been suggested to reduce pain and allow for earlier mobilization. The aim of this study was to determine mortality, complications and functional outcome after operative and non-operative treatment.

Methods

Patients aged ≥60 years with operative treatment of low-energy fragility fracture of the acetabulum from 2009 to 2016 and a follow-up of at least 24 months were identified. The patients were contacted by phone and a modified Merle d’Aubigné score was obtained. If patients or their relatives were not available for follow-up, mortality data was assessed using a national social insurance database.

Results

One hundred seventy-six patients (mean age 78, SD 10 years; 73 female) were available for analysis of mortality data. At final follow-up (68 months, SD 26, range, 24 to 129), 99/176 patients (56.3%) had deceased. One-year-mortality was 25.0% and 2-year mortality 35.8%. Type of treatment (non-operative vs. operative) did not affect mortality at 1 and 2 years (p = .65 and p = .10). Hospital-acquired infections were observed in 31/176 cases (17.6%), thromboembolic events and delirium in 6 patients (3.4%). In-hospital mortality was 5.7%. Patients who underwent operative treatment were more likely to have an in-hospital infection (p = .02) but less likely to sustain thromboembolic events (p = .03).

The mean hospital stay was 14 days (SD 10 days, range, 1 to 66). Patients with operative treatment were longer hospitalized than patients with non-operative treatment (p < .001).

The rate of secondary conversions to THA was 12.4%, this was not affected by initial treatment.

The mean modified Merle d’Aubigné Score of those patients available for a final follow-up (n = 47; follow-up 56 months, SD 28, range, 24 to 115) was 14/18 points, SD 3 (range 7 to 18). Functional results at final follow-up between operatively and non-operatively treated patients were without difference.

Conclusions

All-cause mortality and in-hospital complications are high among geriatric patients with low-energy fractures of the acetabulum even when treated operatively. Secondary conversion rates to THA are similar to those seen in younger patients. Mid-term functional outcome in those surviving is fair.