bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taxi Drops Off as Transit Grows amid Ride-Hailing’s Impact on Airport Access in New York
Authors: Dong Xiaoxia , Ryerson Megan S.
Published: November 2020

This study investigates the relationship between the introduction of ride-hailing services and 1) taxi trips; 2) AirTrain ridership; and 3) parking transactions at two major New York airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Using monthly data that span over a decade, this study applies Bayesian structural time series analysis to examine how taxi trips, AirTrain ridership, and parking transactions have changed since the launch of UberX and Lyft, two of the most popular ride-hailing services in New York City. Results suggest that after the launch of the ride-hailing services, the number of taxi trips (both for drop-offs and pick-ups) decreased at both airports from what it would have been in the absence of ride-hailing services, with the decline being more significant for drop-offs. In contrast, AirTrain ridership continued its growing trend after the launch of UberX and Lyft. The number of parking transactions at JFK continued the mild decline that began before the launch of UberX and Lyft. Our findings indicate that high-quality transit services that connect airports with city centers and intermodal terminals could continue to serve as a crucial airport access mode amid the popularity of ride-hailing services. The findings also highlight the mismatch between taxi drop-offs and pick-ups at the airport and the potential revenue loss from parking decline. The contributions of this study are also methodological, as our study demonstrates the application of a novel statistical method to study the effect of an intervention such as ride-hailing services.
Teaching Methods in Undergraduate Introductory Economics Courses: Results From a Sixth National Quinquennial Survey
Authors: Asarta Carlos J. , Chambers Rebecca G. , Harter Cynthia
Published: November 2020

This article presents the first report of basic findings from the 2020 online administration of the sixth national quinquennial survey on teaching and assessment methods. Focusing on the teaching methods in introductory economics courses (i.e., principles and survey courses), the authors find that very little has changed in the past quarter-century. The typical instructor in introductory courses is predominantly a male, Caucasian, with a PhD. “Chalk and Talk” remains the preferred method of instruction in introductory courses, along with the use of textbooks. The use of “student(s) with student(s)” discussions in the classroom, as well as cooperative learning/small-group assignments, has increased since 2010. Lessons, activities, and references that address diversity, inclusion, or gender issues, however, are almost never used in introductory economics courses.

JEL Classifications: A20, A22
Long-Term Metabolic Monitoring of Youths Treated with Second-Generation Antipsychotics 5 Years after Publication of the CAMESA Guidelines Are We Making Progress? Surveillance Métabolique à Long Terme des Jeunes Traités par Antipsychotiques de Deuxième Génération, Cinq ans Après la publication des Lignes Directrices Camesa: Faisons-Nous des Progrès?
Authors: Jazi Sarra , Ben-Amor Leila , Abadie Pascale , Menard Marie-Line , Choquette Rachel , Berthiaume Claude , Mottron Laurent , Ilies Drigissa
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The potential metabolic adverse effects of second-generation antipsychotics (SGA) need to be monitored. The Canadian Alliance for Monitoring Effectiveness and Safety of Antipsychotics (CAMESA) offers guidelines for this purpose. We aimed to evaluate the long-term rates of youths receiving monitoring in mental health clinics and document the factors that may influence them.

Method:

The charts of 180 patients (13.3 ± 3.1 years, 54.4% males) receiving SGA treatment for the first time between January 2016 and June 2018 were reviewed. Monitoring was divided into baseline and 1- to 6-month and 9- to 24-month periods. Population under study was stratified into children (4 to 12 years) and adolescents (13 to 18 years). Sociodemographic characteristics, psychiatric diagnosis and comorbidities, prescribed SGAs and comedications, anthropometric measures (AM), blood pressure (BP), blood tests (BT), electrocardiogram, and the psychiatrist’s years of practice were collected. Cross tables were used to present the monitoring rates. Categories were compared by covariate analysis. Rates of patients monitored across categories were compared using Fisher exact test.

Results:

Monitoring rates for AM, BT, and BP were 55%, 47.8%, and 46.7% at baseline; 50%, 41.7%, and 45.2% at 1 to 6 months; and 47.2%, 41.5%, and 40.6% at 9 to 24 months, respectively. Higher monitoring rates were significantly associated with adolescent status (baseline, 1 to 6 months), a diagnosis of psychotic and/or affective disorder (baseline, 1 to 6 months, 9 to 24 months), having ≤1 psychiatric comorbidities (1 to 6 months), high SGA dose (baseline, 1 to 6 months), and clinician’s experience (baseline, 9 to 24 months). Significantly lower monitoring rates were associated with the psychostimulant/atomoxetine comedication (baseline, 1 to 6 months, 9 to 24 months).

Conclusion:

Five years after publication of the CAMESA guidelines, metabolic monitoring is conducted for less than half of patients. In our sample, age, diagnostic category, psychiatric comorbidities, SGA dose, clinician’s experience, and comedications influenced the monitoring rates. Major progress still needs to be made before reaching a satisfactory level of monitoring.
Validating the Chinese Version of Triarchic Model of Grit Scale in Technical–Vocational College Students
Authors: Datu Jesus Alfonso D. , Zhang Jiahong
Published: November 2020

The Triarchic Model of Grit Scale (TMGS), a measure that assesses individuals’ dispositions to show perseverance, passion (or consistency of interests) , and adaptability for long-term goals, had acceptable psychometric properties in Filipino student samples. However, there is scant evidence on the validity of this scale in other societies. This research explored the psychometric validity of the Chinese version of TMGS in selected technical–vocational college students in Shenzen, China. Results demonstrated that the scores from the three-factor model of grit were valid and reliable. In addition, whereas perseverance and adaptability were linked to increased life satisfaction and positive emotions, consistency was not related to such criterion variables. Further, perseverance and adaptability were associated with lower negative emotions, while consistency was linked to increased levels of undesirable emotions.
Becoming a Channel of God: How Faith Community Nurses Develop Their Spiritual Practice
Authors: LeBlanc-Kwaw Denise , Weaver Kathryn , Olson Joanne
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

This study explored the underlying process faith community nurses (FCNs) experience in developing their spiritual nursing practice.

Design:

A qualitative, exploratory design was used.

Method:

Data from interviews with six FCNs were generated and analyzed using Glaserian grounded theory.

Findings:

The basic social psychological process, cultivating the soul to become a channel of God, explains the steps these nurses take to achieve stages of presence. Going through these stages of presence, FCNs develop a foundation of God-related beliefs and values, presence with self, presence with God, presence with others, presence with God and others, and become a channel of God.

Conclusions:

Developing spiritual care competence in assessing and meeting clients’ spiritual needs is necessary to enhance person-centered practice, a vital aspect of holistic care. The model of presence can inform the development of spiritual care competencies and link to other nursing theories including Watson’s theory of caring and Benner’s novice to expert theory. Workplace support is needed for nurses to refine spiritual nursing care practices and integrate spiritual care into practice. Further research regarding the stages of presence could foster deeper understanding of how foundations of God-related values develop.
Interdisciplinary study on dietary complexity in Central China during the Longshan Period (4.5–3.8 kaBP): New isotopic evidence from Wadian and Haojiatai, Henan Province
Authors: Li Wei , Zhou Ligang , Lin YiHsien , Zhang Hai , Zhang Ying , Wu Xiaohong , Stevens Chris , Yang Yingliang , Wang Hui , Fang Yanming , Liang Fawei
Published: November 2020

Central China is one of the key regions of the world that sees the transition from early Neolithic urbanization into the social complexity of Bronze Age civilizations. Previous evidence had indicated that the diets of humans and the feeding strategies of livestock in Central China during the Longshan Period (4.5–3.8 kaBP) became more complex and diverse, including the widespread introduction of cattle and sheep, and the coexistence of different human dietary groups within several settlements. Within this paper new and pre-existing stable isotope analyses from human ( n = 31) and animal bones ( n = 76) recovered from Wadian and Haojiatai, two important Longshan sites in the southeast of Central China, are integrated with multiproxy data from archaeological, environmental, and cultural contexts to interpret the social conditions behind dietary complexity from an interdisciplinary perspective. We suggest that the feeding strategies of cattle and sheep from Western Asia were successfully adapted to the pre-existing local millet farming subsistence regimes, and that the different human dietary groups seen corresponded to continuing diversified subsistence strategies that included millet farming, rice farming, and hunter-gathering. This dietary complexity is considered as a reflection of different patterns within the cultural interactions in Central China during the Longshan Period that saw the mixing of populations with diversified cultural backgrounds. This is represented by the introduction of extraneous livestock and the coexistence of millet and rice farmers at Wadian, and the continued expansion of millet agriculture within Central China indicated by the coexistence of millet farmers and hunter-gatherers at Haojiatai.
Traditional Medicine and Help-Seeking Behaviors for Health Problems Among Somali Bantu Refugees Resettled in the United States
Authors: Assefa Mehret T. , Frounfelker Rochelle L. , Tahir Shanze A. , Berent Jenna M. , Abdi Abdirahman , Betancourt Theresa S.
Published: November 2020

Somali refugees have resettled in the United States in large numbers. The focus of this study was specifically on the Somali Bantu refugees, an ethnic minority group from Somalia. The goal of this study was to understand the following: (a) jinn (invisible beings or forces in Islamic theology) and related health problems resulting from jinn possession affecting Somali Bantu refugees, (b) types of traditional healing practices integrated into help-seeking behavior, and (c) pathways of care utilized to address health problems. In total, 20 participant interviews were conducted with Somali Bantu refugees resettled in the United States. Overall, participants described types of jinn and associated health problems. In addition, participants identified different pathways of care, including formal and informal health care. Participants accessed these pathways both concurrently and sequentially. Somali Bantu utilize complex and varied health care services based on their understanding of the causes of health problems and experiences with care providers.
The effect of the thermal plume generated by body heat dissipation on the containment of fume hood
Authors: Liu Dong , Meng Chuang , Chen Jiaxin , Li Lirong
Published: November 2020

The impact of human body heat dissipation on the containment of a fume hood was conducted via experiments and numerical model. The experiments evaluated hood face velocity and the temperature around the mannequin; the results validated the simulation. The numerical model was based on the governing equations of fluid flow via the finite volume method. The face velocities (0.3–0.9 m·s− 1 ) and temperature differences (11°C, 8°C and 5°C) between the surface of the mannequin and its surroundings were used as variables. The numerical results show that in addition to the blockage effect of the worker standing in front of the fume hood, there is a more important thermal effect on the containment of fume hood. The thermal plume carries pollutants leaking out of the hood face to the breathing zone. The face velocity and dimensionless value (Gr/Re 2 ) are recommended to be 0.4–0.6 m·s− 1 and 20–35 respectively, to reduce the influence of human thermal plume on the containment of fume hood and energy waste. The formula related to the rising distance of thermal plume, Grashof and Reynolds numbers (Gr/Re 2 ) was determined.
Reading Ren’Py: Game Engine Affordances and Design Possibilities
Authors: Consalvo Mia , Staines Dan
Published: November 2020

Game engines have largely become synonymous with the production of certain game genres, and creating games outside those genres is at the least cumbersome if not outright impossible to do. This study demonstrates how the affordances and constraints of particular engines, working in consort with the creative community around a particular engine, shape both game engine use as well as the game engine thinking that determines what is and is not possible. It does so by looking at a game project developed using the Ren’py engine. Using Fiadotau and Bogost as conceptual springboards, we focus on our decision to use Ren’py and how that decision shaped the game and our production processes. In addition to discussing the engine itself, we also look at how the practices and discourse of the Ren’py community—most notably represented on the engine’s official forums—also shaped our work.
Effect of Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis on Anterior Cruciate Ligament Graft Incorporation
Authors: Cavaignac Etienne , Mesnier Timothée , Marot Vincent , Fernandez Andrea , Faruch Marie , Berard Emilie , Sonnery-Cottet Bertrand
Published: November 2020

Background:

It has been shown that adding lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) to standard anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction significantly decreases the loads on the ACL composite graft. To date, the possible effect of LET on ACL graft incorporation is not known.

Purpose:

To compare the incorporation in tibial bone tunnels of a standard quadrupled semitendinosus (ST4) graft to an ST4 graft plus LET at 1 year postoperatively using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 62 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction were enrolled prospectively: 31 received an ST4 graft, and 31 received an ST4 graft plus LET. Graft incorporation was evaluated with MRI at the 1-year follow-up visit. The following parameters were evaluated: signal-to-noise quotient (SNQ), tibial tunnel widening, graft healing, and graft maturity according to the Howell scale. The primary endpoint was the SNQ of the ST4 graft at 1 year postoperatively; this parameter was adjusted because of unequal baseline characteristics between groups. Clinical and functional outcomes as well as incorporation of the graft were analyzed as secondary endpoints.

Results:

The mean adjusted SNQ was 0.5 ± 2.1 (95% CI, 0.4-4.6) in the ST4 + LET group and 5.9 ± 3.7 (95% CI, 4.7-7.0) in the ST4 group ( P = .0297). The mean tibial tunnel widening was 73.7% ± 42.2% in the ST4 + LET group versus 77.5% ± 46.7% in the ST4 group ( P = .5685). Howell grade I, indicative of better graft maturity, was statistically more frequent in the ST4 + LET group ( P = .0379). No statistically significant difference was seen between groups in terms of graft healing ( P = .1663). The Lysholm score was statistically higher in the ST4 + LET group ( P = .0058). No significant differences were found between groups in terms of the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective score ( P = .2683) or Tegner score ( P = .7428). The mean SNQ of the LET graft at the 1-year follow-up visit was 2.6 ± 4.9.

Conclusion:

At 1 year postoperatively, the MRI appearance of ACL grafts showed generally better incorporation and maturation when combined with LET.
A safety evaluation of mixed human milk oligosaccharides in neonatal farm piglets
Authors: Hanlon Paul R
Published: November 2020

Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are the third most abundant, solid component of human milk after lactose and fat. As novel processes are developed to cost-effectively produce commercial volumes of these oligosaccharides, they are becoming more common components of infant formulas worldwide. The study evaluated the safety of a novel mixture of HMOs in a neonatal piglet model with the objective of identifying potential effects during the sensitive, preweaning developmental stage of life. The mixture of HMOs (HMO MIX 1) was composed of 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL), 3-fucosyllactose (3-FL), lacto-N-tetraose (LNT), 3′-sialyllactose (3′-SL), and 6′-sialyllactose (6′-SL), and was administered to 2-day old piglets at either 5.75 or 8.0 g/L for a period of 21 days. Piglets in the 5.75 and 8.0 g/L HMO MIX 1 dosing groups did not exhibit differences in body weight, food consumption, or feed efficiency. Analysis of clinical chemistry parameters on Study Day 7 and Study Day 21 did not demonstrate any effects that could be attributed to HMO MIX 1, nor were there any findings in organ weight, macroscopic, or microscopic inspection of tissues that could be attributed to this oligosaccharide blend. Therefore, since administration of HMO MIX 1 in a liquid diet up to 8.0 g/L resulted in no toxicologically-relevant effects in comparison with animals fed a control diet, this study supports the safety of this ingredient for addition to infant formula products.
Beauveria bassiana ERL836 and JEF-007 with similar virulence show different gene expression when interacting with cuticles of western flower thrips, Frankniella occidentalis
Authors: Kim Sihyeon , Kim Jong Cheol , Lee Se Jin , Lee Mi Rong , Park So Eun , Li Dongwei , Baek Sehyeon , Shin Tae Young , Kim Jae Su
Published: November 2020

Background

Insect-killing fungal species, Beauveria bassiana, is as an environment-friendly pest management tool, and many isolates are on the track of industrialization. However, some of B. bassiana isolates show similar morphology and virulence against insect pests, and so it is hard to differentiate them. Herein we used two patented isolates, ERL836 and JEF-007, and investigated their virulence against western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, and further analyzed genome structures and transcriptional responses when interacting with cuticles of thrips to see possible differences on the initial step of fungal infection.

Results

The two isolates showed no significant differences in fungal growth, conidial production, and virulence against thrips, and they were structurally similar in genome. But, in transcription level, ERL836 appeared to infect thrips easily, while JEF-007 appeared to have more difficulty. In the GO analysis of ERL836 DEGs (differentially expressed genes), the number of up-regulated genes was much larger than that of down-regulated genes, when compared to JEF-007 DEGs (more genes down-regulated). Interestingly, in the enrichment analysis using shared DEGs between two infecting isolates, plasma membrane-mediated transporter activity and fatty acid degradation pathway including cytochrome P450 were more active in infecting ERL836.

Conclusion

The two B. bassiana isolates had similar morphology and virulence as well as genome structure, but in transcription level they differently interacted with the cuticle of western flower thrips. This comparative approach using shared DEG analysis could be easily applied to characterize the difference of the two B. bassiana isolates, JEF-007 and ERL836.
Identification and differential expression of serotransferrin and apolipoprotein A-I in the plasma of HIV-1 patients treated with first-line antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Barik Sushanta Kumar , Mohanty Keshar Kunja , Mohanty Ashok Kumar , Rawat Preeti , Gopal G. , Bisht Deepa , Patil Shripad A. , Singh Rananjay , Sharma Devesh , Tripathy Srikanth Prasad , Tandon Rekha , Singh Tej Pal , Jena Srikanta
Published: November 2020

Background

Plasma proteins are known to interfere the drug metabolism during therapy. As limited information is available regarding the role of plasma proteins in HIV drug resistance during ART in HIV/AIDS patients, the present study aimed to identify and characterize the differentially expressed plasma proteins in the drug resistant and drug respondent groups of HIV-1 infected patients with > 6 years of first line ART.

Methods

Four-drug resistant (treatment failure) and four-drug respondent (treatment responder) patients were selected for plasma proteomic analysis based on viral load and drug resistance associated mutations from a cohort study designed on the first line ART patients who were enrolled in the antiretroviral therapy center, Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, India from December 2009 to November 2016.

After depleting high abundant proteins, plasma proteins were resolved using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis on IPG strips, pH range of 3–10. Spots were selected in the gel based on the density of staining which was common in the drug resistant and drug respondent groups separately. The fold change of each spot was calculated using image-J. Each protein spot was identified using the matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight/time of flight (MALDI-TOF/TOF) after tryptic digestion. Peptide peaks were identified through flex analysis version 3.3, and a search against a protein data base using the internal Mascot. Gene ontology study was completed through STRING v.11 and Panther15.0.

Results

Out of eight spots from 2D gel samples analyzed by MALDITOF/TOF, two proteins were found to have significant score (> 56) after Flex analysis. These two proteins were identified to be apolipoprotein A1 and serotransferrin. The fold change expression of these two proteins were analyzed in drug resistant and drug respondent group. Apolipoprotein-A1 and serotransferrin were observed to be expressed 1.76 and 1.13-fold more respectively in drug respondent group compared to drug resistant group. The gene ontology analysis revealed the involvement of these two proteins in various important physiological processes.

Conclusion

Apolipoprotein A-I and serotransferrin were found to be expressed more in drug respondent group compared to drug resistant group.
Anti-Müllerian hormone is correlated with cumulative live birth in minimal ovarian stimulation with clomiphene citrate: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ezoe Kenji , Ni Xiaowen , Kobayashi Tamotsu , Kato Keiichi
Published: November 2020

Background

Several studies have investigated the correlation between the serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in controlled ovarian stimulation cycles; however, studies regarding the correlation of the serum AMH level with IVF outcomes in minimal ovarian stimulation cycles remain limited. In this study, we aimed to analyze the correlation of the serum AMH level with ovarian responsiveness, embryonic outcomes, and cumulative live birth rates in clomiphene citrate (CC)-based minimal ovarian stimulation cycles.

Methods

Clinical records of 689 women whose entire ovarian stimulation regimen consisted solely of minimal stimulation cycle IVF using CC alone from November 2017 to October 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The association between IVF outcomes and the serum AMH level before the initiation of the first fertility treatment was analyzed. Furthermore, the correlation of the serum AMH level with cumulative live birth rates after IVF treatment was assessed. The Cochran-Armitage test, Pearson’s chi-squared test, Spearman rank correlation test, Student’s t-test, one-way analysis of variance, logistic regression analysis, Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards model were used to analyze the data.

Results

The serum AMH level positively correlated with the number of retrieved oocytes, blastocyst formation rate, blastocyst cryopreservation rate, and live birth rate per oocyte retrieval in CC-based minimal ovarian stimulation cycles without any exogenous gonadotropin administration. Furthermore, the cumulative live birth rate and treatment period required for conceiving were strongly associated with the serum AMH level at the initiation of fertility treatment.

Conclusions

A low serum AMH level correlated with low ovarian responsiveness, impaired pre-implantation embryonic development, and decreased cumulative live birth rate in CC-based minimal ovarian stimulation cycles. Therefore, the cycle success rate would be predicted by measuring the serum AMH level in minimal ovarian stimulation with CC alone.
Correction to: Psychiatric comorbidity in individuals with bullous pemphigoid and all bullous disorders in the Danish national registers
Authors: Rania Marianna , Petersen Liselotte Vogdrup , Benros Michael Eriksen , Liu Zhi , Diaz Luis , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Isolated nausea and vomiting as the cardinal presenting symptoms of clozapine-induced myocarditis: a case report
Authors: van der Horst M. Z. , van Houwelingen F. , Luykx J. J.
Published: November 2020

Background

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic proven to be superior in the treatment of treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Myocarditis is a rare, but well-known complication of treatment with clozapine. Only few cases have been reported in which nausea and vomiting were prominent symptoms. This is the first described report in which nausea and vomiting were the only presenting symptoms of clozapine-induced myocarditis.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 58-year-old woman, suffering from schizoaffective disorder, who is being treated with clozapine. Two weeks after initiation of clozapine, she developed nausea and vomiting, in absence of any other clinical symptoms. Laboratory examination and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of clozapine-induced myocarditis. Clozapine was discontinued and the patient recovered fully.

Conclusions

This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing myocarditis as a cause of isolated nausea and vomiting in patients treated with clozapine. Early recognition improves clinical outcome and reduces mortality.
Proteus empyema as a rare complication from an infected renal cyst, a case report
Authors: Earasi Kranthikiran , Welch Caitlin , Zelickson Adam , Westover Clinton , Ramani Chintan , Sumner Cameron , Davis Eric M.
Published: November 2020

Background

The most commonly isolated organisms in a parapneumonic effusion include S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and S. aureus. If unusual organisms are isolated from the pleural space, further investigation is warranted to locate the primary source. We present a patient with an infected chronic renal cyst found to have an empyema secondary to Proteus mirabilis to highlight the importance of further diagnostic workup when encountering unusual organisms in the pleural space.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old African-American female, with a past medical history of asthma and sickle cell trait, presented with 5 weeks of upper respiratory tract symptoms and chest pain. A computed tomography angiogram (CTA) of the chest was negative for a pulmonary embolism but revealed a loculated left sided pleural effusion with associated left-lower lobe consolidation. She was started on empiric antibiotics, and a chest tube was inserted with drainage of frank pus. Fluid gram stain was positive for gram negative rods.

Intrapleural fibrinolytics were administered for 72 h given the presence of loculations. With no improvement following fibrinolytics, she was taken to the operating room for large bore chest tube placement and left visceral pleura decortication. Pleural fluid cultures speciated to Proteus mirabilis, so further cross-sectional imaging of her abdomen/pelvis was pursued to evaluate for a primary source. A complex cystic lesion in the upper pole of the left kidney that communicated with the ipsilateral diaphragm was identified. Subsequent drainage and culture of the renal cyst was positive for Proteus mirabilis. Given clinical improvement following these interventions she was discharged with an extended course of antibiotics with plans for repeat imaging following completion of treatment.

Conclusions

While cases of Proteus mirabilis empyema have previously been reported as a consequence of conditions such as pyelonephritis, we present, to our knowledge, the first case of a Proteus mirabilis empyema as a consequence of an infected renal cyst communicating with the pleural space. This study highlights that further evaluation with cross-sectional imaging is warranted when unusual organisms are found in the pleural space. Anatomic abnormalities that become apparent on imaging may help elucidate the source of infection.
3D printed complete removable dental prostheses: a narrative review
Authors: Anadioti Eva , Musharbash Leen , Blatz Markus B. , Papavasiliou George , Kamposiora Phophi
Published: November 2020

Background

The purpose of this paper is to review the available literature on three-dimensionally printed complete dentures in terms of novel biomaterials, fabrication techniques and workflow, clinical performance and patient satisfaction.

Methods

The methodology included applying a search strategy, defining inclusion and exclusion criteria, selecting studies and forming tables to summarize the results. Searches of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases were performed independently by two reviewers to gather literature published between 2010 and 2020.

Results

A total of 126 titles were obtained from the electronic database, and the application of exclusion criteria resulted in the identification of 21 articles pertaining to printed technology for complete dentures. Current innovations and developments in digital dentistry have successfully led to the fabrication of removable dental prostheses using CAD/CAM technologies. Milled dentures have been studied more than 3D printed ones in the currently available literature. The limited number of clinical studies, mainly case reports, suggest current indications of 3D printing in denture fabrication process to be custom tray, record bases, trial, interim or immediate dentures but not definitive prostheses fabrication. Limitations include poor esthetics and retention, inability to balance occlusion and low printer resolution.

Conclusions

Initial studies on digital dentures have shown promising short-term clinical performance, positive patient-related results and reasonable cost-effectiveness. 3D printing has potential to modernize and streamline the denture fabrication techniques, materials and workflows. However, more research is required on the existing and developing materials and printers to allow for advancement and increase its application in removable prosthodontics.
Circ_0015756 promotes the progression of ovarian cancer by regulating miR-942-5p/CUL4B pathway
Authors: Du Zhenhua , Wang Lei , Xia Yu
Published: November 2020

Background

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the gynecologic cancer with the highest mortality. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a vital role in the development and progression of cancer. This study aimed to explore the potential role of circ_0015756 in OC and its molecular mechanism.

Methods

The levels of circ_0015756, microRNA-942-5p (miR-942-5p) and Cullin 4B (CUL4B) were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) or Western blot assay. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation assay, flow cytometry and transwell assay. The levels of proliferation-related and metastasis-related proteins were measured by Western blot assay. The relationship between miR-942-5p and circ_0015756 or CUL4B was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation assay and RNA pull-down assay. Xenograft assay was used to analyze tumor growth in vivo.

Results

Circ_0015756 and CUL4B levels were increased, while miR-942-5p level was decreased in OC tissues and cells. Depletion of circ_0015756 suppressed proliferation, migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis in OC cells. Down-regulation of circ_0015756 hindered OC cell progression via modulating miR-942-5p. Also, up-regulation of miR-942-5p impeded OC cell development by targeting CUL4B. Mechanistically, circ_0015756 up-regulated CUL4B via sponging miR-942-5p. Moreover, circ_0015756 silencing inhibited tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

Knockdown of circ_0015756 suppressed OC progression via regulating miR-942-5p/CUL4B axis, suggesting that circ_0015756 might be a potential therapeutic target for ovarian cancer.
Population genetic analysis of the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein in two distinct ecological regions in Ghana
Authors: Amegashie Elikplim A. , Amenga-Etego Lucas , Adobor Courage , Ogoti Peter , Mbogo Kevin , Amambua-Ngwa Alfred , Ghansah Anita
Published: November 2020

Background

Extensive genetic diversity in thePlasmodium falciparumcircumsporozoite protein (PfCSP) is a major contributing factor to the moderate efficacy of the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine. The transmission intensity and rates of recombination within and between populations influence the extent of its genetic diversity. Understanding the extent and dynamics of PfCSP genetic diversity in different transmission settings will help to interpret the results of current RTS,S efficacy and Phase IV implementation trials conducted within and between populations in malaria-endemic areas such as Ghana.

Methods

Pfcspsequences were retrieved from the Illumina-generated paired-end short-read sequences of 101 and 131 malaria samples from children aged 6–59 months presenting with clinical malaria at health facilities in Cape Coast (in the coastal belt) and Navrongo (Guinea savannah region), respectively, in Ghana. The sequences were mapped onto the 3D7 reference strain genome to yield high-quality genome-wide coding sequence data. Following data filtering and quality checks to remove missing data, 220 sequences were retained and analysed for the allele frequency spectrum, genetic diversity both within the host and between populations and signatures of selection. Population genetics tools were used to determine the extent and dynamics ofPfcspdiversity inP. falciparumfrom the two geographically distinct locations in Ghana.

Results

Pfcspshowed extensive diversity at the two sites, with the higher transmission site, Navrongo, exhibiting higher within-host and population-level diversity. The vaccine strain C-terminal epitope ofPfcspwas found in only 5.9% and 45.7% of the Navrongo and Cape Coast sequences, respectively. Between 1 and 6 amino acid variations were observed in the TH2R and TH3R epitope regions of PfCSP. Tajima’s D was negatively skewed, especially for the population from Cape Coast, given the expected historical population expansion. In contrast, a positive Tajima’s D was observed for the NavrongoP. falciparumpopulation, consistent with balancing selection acting on the immuno-dominant TH2R and TH3R vaccine epitopes.

Conclusion

The low frequencies of thePfcspvaccine haplotype in the analysed populations indicate a need for additional molecular and immuno-epidemiological studies with broader temporal and geographic sampling in endemic populations targeted for RTS,S application. These results have implications for the efficacy of the vaccine in Ghana and will inform the choice of alleles to be included in future multivalent or chimeric vaccines.
Reprogramming of synovial macrophage metabolism by synovial fibroblasts under inflammatory conditions
Authors: Saeki Noritaka , Imai Yuuki
Published: November 2020

Background

Macrophages adapt to microenvironments, and change metabolic status and functions to regulate inflammation and/or maintain homeostasis. In joint cavities, synovial macrophages (SM) and synovial fibroblasts (SF) maintain homeostasis. However, under inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), crosstalk between SM and SF remains largely unclear.

Methods

Immunofluorescent staining was performed to identify localization of SM and SF in synovium of collagen antibody induced arthritis (CAIA) model mice and normal mice. Murine arthritis tissue-derived SM (ADSM), arthritis tissue-derived SF (ADSF) and normal tissue-derived SF (NDSF) were isolated and the purity of isolated cells was examined by RT-qPCR and flow cytometry analysis. RNA-seq was conducted to reveal gene expression profile in ADSM, NDSF and ADSF. Cellular metabolic status and expression levels of metabolic genes and inflammatory genes were analyzed in ADSM treated with ADSM-conditioned medium (ADSM-CM), NDSF-CM and ADSF-CM.

Results

SM and SF were dispersed in murine hyperplastic synovium. Isolations of ADSM, NDSF and ADSF to analyze the crosstalk were successful with high purity. From gene expression profiles by RNA-seq, we focused on secretory factors in ADSF-CM, which can affect metabolism and inflammatory activity of ADSM. ADSM exposed to ADSF-CM showed significantly upregulated glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration as well as glucose and glutamine uptake relative to ADSM exposed to ADSM-CM and NDSF-CM. Furthermore, mRNA expression levels of metabolic genes, such as Slc2a1, Slc1a5, CD36, Pfkfb1, Pfkfb3 and Irg1, were significantly upregulated in ADSM treated with ADSF-CM. Inflammation marker genes, including Nos2, Tnf, Il-1b and CD86, and the anti-inflammatory marker gene, Il-10, were also substantially upregulated by ADSF-CM. On the other hand, NDSF-CM did not affect metabolism and gene expression in ADSM.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that crosstalk between SM and SF under inflammatory conditions can induce metabolic reprogramming and extend SM viability that together can contribute to chronic inflammation in RA.
Mesenchymal stem cell derived-exosomes: a modern approach in translational medicine
Authors: Nikfarjam Sepideh , Rezaie Jafar , Zolbanin Naime Majidi , Jafari Reza
Published: November 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have captured great attention in regenerative medicine for over a few decades by virtue of their differentiation capacity, potent immunomodulatory properties, and their ability to be favorably cultured and manipulated. Recent investigations implied that the pleiotropic effects of MSCs is not associated to their ability of differentiation, but rather is mediated by the secretion of soluble paracrine factors. Exosomes, nanoscale extracellular vesicles, are one of these paracrine mediators. Exosomes transfer functional cargos like miRNA and mRNA molecules, peptides, proteins, cytokines and lipids from MSCs to the recipient cells. Exosomes participate in intercellular communication events and contribute to the healing of injured or diseased tissues and organs. Studies reported that exosomes alone are responsible for the therapeutic effects of MSCs in numerous experimental models. Therefore, MSC-derived exosomes can be manipulated and applied to establish a novel cell-free therapeutic approach for treatment of a variety of diseases including heart, kidney, liver, immune and neurological diseases, and cutaneous wound healing. In comparison with their donor cells, MSC-derived exosomes offer more stable entities and diminished safety risks regarding the administration of live cells, e.g. microvasculature occlusion risk. This review discusses the exosome isolation methods invented and utilized in the clinical setting thus far and presents a summary of current information on MSC exosomes in translational medicine.
Breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service: a descriptive survey
Authors: Burns Elaine S. , Duursma Louise , Triandafilidis Zoi
Published: November 2020

Background

In Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA.

Methods

Women who accessed the service were invited, in 2014, to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes.

Results

Responses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in service with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0–8 weeks of age (72%). The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support’; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’.

Discussion

In this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey.

Conclusions

Reactive peer support, provided in response to need, at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service, was described by participants as pivotal to enabling their ongoing breastfeeding.
Alcohol use disorders, beverage preferences and the influence of alcohol marketing: a preliminary study
Authors: Guillou Landreat Morgane , Beauvais Céline , Grall Bronnec Marie , Le Goff Delphine , Le reste Jean Yves , Lever Delphine , Dany Antoine , Gallopel Morvan Karine
Published: November 2020

Background

Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD) are among the most prevalent mental disorders in the world. They are the leading risk factor for premature mortality and disability among 15 to 49-year-olds. Links between alcohol marketing and patterns of alcohol consumption are well defined in adolescents but there is few data on the impact of alcohol marketing on a population of drinkers with an AUD and seeking treatment. This study was designed in collaboration among researchers specialising in addictive disorders, in social marketing and primary care.

Methods

This was a monocentric, cross-sectional, descriptive study. The main objective of this study was to define the type of marketing identified by drinkers with an AUD who were seeking treatment and their beverage preferences. Drinkers aged 18+ with an AUD and seeking treatment were included. A descriptive analysis and a logistic regression were carried out .

Results

N = 91 patients were included, 73.6% were male, the average age was 46.2 years. 72% said they were not influenced by alcohol marketing, but 76% recalled an alcohol advertisement in the last 6 months. The most frequently reported beverage preferences were wine (39.6%), standard beers (29.6%), spirits (27.5%) and strong beers (16.5%).

Conclusions

Patients with AUD, defined as vulnerable, reported exposure to alcohol marketing but did not seem to identify it consciously. Marketing influences differed according to beverage preferences. These results need to be confirmed by a larger study.
Diagnostic journey and impact of enzyme replacement therapy for mucopolysaccharidosis IVA: a sibling control study
Authors: Ficicioglu Can , Matalon Dena R. , Luongo Nicole , Menello Caitlin , Kornafel Tracy , Degnan Andrew J.
Published: November 2020

Background

Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) IVA, also known as Morquio A syndrome, is a rare autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency in the enzyme N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase. Early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of this progressive, multisystem disease by enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) can lead to improved outcomes and reduced mortality.

Methods

This report documents the diagnostic journey and treatment with ERT of three siblings with MPS IVA. Clinical outcome measures included growth, endurance, imaging, cardiac, respiratory, ophthalmology, and laboratory evaluations.

Results

Three siblings, diagnosed at 14.7, 10.1, and 3.2 years of age, demonstrated clinical improvement with weekly infusions of 2.0 mg/kg elosulfase alfa (Vimizim®, BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Novato, CA, USA). Patient 1 (oldest sibling) and Patient 2 (middle sibling) experienced a diagnostic delay of 8 years 7 months and 4 years after symptom onset, respectively. All three patients demonstrated improvements in growth, 6-min walk distance, joint range of motion, and respiratory function after 30 months of ERT. The treatment was well tolerated without any adverse events.

Conclusions

This case series highlights the importance of early recognition of the clinical and imaging findings that are initially subtle in MPS IVA. Early treatment with ERT is necessary to slow irreversible disease progression and improve patient outcomes. The oldest sibling experienced improvements in mobility despite severe symptoms resulting from a late diagnosis. When evaluating patients with skeletal anomalies, imaging multiple body regions is recommended. When findings such as anterior beaking of vertebrae or bilateral femoral head dysplasia are present, MPS IVA should be included in the differential diagnosis. Newborn screening must be considered for early detection, accurate diagnosis, and initiation of treatment to reduce morbidity.
Glycometabolic rearrangements--aerobic glycolysis in pancreatic cancer: causes, characteristics and clinical applications
Authors: Cao Lidong , Wu Jiacheng , Qu Xianzhi , Sheng Jiyao , Cui Mengying , Liu Shui , Huang Xu , Xiang Yien , Li Bingjin , Zhang Xuewen , Cui Ranji
Published: November 2020

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most malignant tumors worldwide, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the most common type. In pancreatic cancer, glycolysis is the primary way energy is produced to maintain the proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis of cancer cells, even under normoxia. However, the potential molecular mechanism is still unknown. From this perspective, this review mainly aimed to summarize the current reasonable interpretation of aerobic glycolysis in pancreatic cancer and some of the newest methods for the detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer. More specifically, we reported some biochemical parameters, such as newly developed enzymes and transporters, and further explored their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.