bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of collimation on the dynamics of two meteoroid fragments of the same size
Authors: Lukashenko V.T.
Published: August 2020

The article analyzes the problem of the supersonic flight of two meteoroid fragments of the same size in the framework of two-dimensional plane formulation using the multigrid method for modeling the dynamics of a system of bodies. Initially, the bodies followed each other with a slight displacement of the body located behind, perpendicular to the direction of motion. The variable parameter was the density of the body located behind. Collisions between bodies were calculated according to the formulas of perfectly inelastic impact without adherence of the bodies. It is shown that there are three different modes of system dynamics: spreading with forcing the leading body in the transverse direction, the oscillations of the lagging body in the trace of the leading body, and the gradual lagging the body located behind from the leading body. Depending on its density oscillations of the lagging body are either diverging in nature with its ejection on the head shock wave from the leading body, or of a damped nature with the ejection into the region of the far trace of the leading body. The configuration of the joint flight of bodies directly one after another is not realized.
Transmission of Islamic Values in Public School: A Study at State Senior High School 5 Yogyakarta
Authors: Suyatno Suyatno , Hayati Fitri Nur , Wantini Wantini
Published: August 2020

The process of transmitting Islamic values to the younger generation remains an appealing study as Indonesia is a country with the largest Muslim population in the world. Unfortunately, previous studies on this topic focused more on the process of transmitting these values through formal and informal religious based educational institutions. This research took a unique position to study the Islamic values transmission within non-religious based public school. This qualitative research employed the case study approach to examine the process of instilling Islamic values in public schools. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and study of relevant documentation. The collected data were analyzed using the inductive interactive techniques of the Miles and Huberman models. This study showed that 1) the values of iman-taqwa (faith-piety) and akhlaq mulia (good morals) were an important embodiment of affection-based educational programs in schools. 2) These values were instilled by the school through a habituation process, supported by the function of the principal and teachers as role models and the important role of Rohis (Islamic organization). The inculcation of Islamic values was not only carried out by religious education teachers, but also transmitted by secular subject teachers as well as extracurricular activities. The findings of this study confirmed that public schools in Indonesia were now transformed as important instruments for the transmission of Islamic values to young Muslims. This research suggests important recommendations on the need to develop the capacity of teachers in schools to make them agents of moderation of Islamic values.
The Incidence of Gastrointestinal Helminthiasis in Etawa Crossbred Goat in Etawa Farm Jombang
Authors: Sari Dwi Novita , Suprayogi Tri Wahyu , Legowo Djoko , Rochmi Siti Eliana
Published: August 2020

Background: Goat is one type of small ruminant that has a contribution to supporting the development of livestock and is an alternative to meet the needs of animal protein in Indonesian society. The current goat raising system is still carried out by being caged or semi-grazed. In this maintenance system, goats are very susceptible to parasitic diseases, especially those caused by the digestive tract worms. Gastrointestinal worms are a significant problem in livestock, especially small ruminants that cause health problems, such as diarrhea, weight loss, and decreased appetite. Purpose: To determine the percentage and types of digestive tract helminths in Etawa crossbred goats by age. Method: 30 feces samples from Etawa crossbred goats were collected for laboratory examination using native, sedimentation, and flotation methods. Result: From the microscopic examination, it was found that the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis was 56.6%. Also, the type of worm eggs found in the feces samples from Etawa crossbred goats were Cotylophoron cotylophorum, Moniezia benedeni, Oesophagostomum columbianum, Strongyloides papillosus, Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus sp., and Trichuris globulosa.
The Utilization of Rice Straw for Increase Orange Productivity and Reducing Environmental Pollution
Authors: Rifiana Rifiana , Hamdani Hamdani
Published: August 2020

Siam Banjar oranges was one of the leading commodities in South Kalimantan with an area 2,594 ha, 113,-149 tons of production and 43.72 ha-1 of productivity (Department of Agriculture South Kalimantan, 2006 in www.kalselprov.go.id/). The development of Siam Banjar oranges in South Kalimantan was overflow in Barito Kuala and Banjar District. The level of responsiveness plants for fertilization encourages farmers to apply high inorganic fertilizers. If it is applied continuously and without return organic matter into the soil, it will produce the reduced soil fertility in terms of chemical, physical, and biological soil. This research showed the effect of the use of straw in increasing the production of Siam Banjar oranges. First, they completely decomposed so that increasing soil fertility. Second, reduce environmental pollution because it did not leave residues as inorganic fertilizers. Third, prevent soil erosion so that nutrients needed by oranges for grow properly could be fulfilled optimally. So, oranges did not easily attacked by pests and diseases then provide abundant harvest. The results of the differences between two values ​​could be concluded that, the benefits of orange farming was produced with straw was greater than farming without straw. Revenue Cost Ratio (RCR) value of orange farming with straw was 3.56 and the Revenue Cost Ratio (RCR) value of orange farming without straw was 3.26. Based on the RCR value, orange farming with straw was more feasible than orange farming without a straw.
SOFT CORAL (Sinularia sp.) EXTRACTS WITH ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY
Authors: Tanod Wendy Alexander , Aristawati Anita Treisya , Putra Masteria Yunovilsa , Muliadin Muliadin
Published: August 2020

There is a growing need for new antibacterial agents, in particular because many antibiotics are becoming ineffective due to the emergence of resistant bacterial strains. Soft corals of the Genus Sinularia, Family Alcyoniidae, have potential as a source of terpenoid and steroid compounds with antibacterial activity. These corals may vary in external morphology (shape, colour, size).The aim of this research was to identify extracted fractions with high antibacterial activity. Sinularia sp. specimens were extracted, fractionated based on solvent polarity, and tested for antibacterial bioactivity against pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus). Antibacterial activity of the three fractions varied in strength. The dichloromethane fraction showed strong antibacterial activity, inhibiting S. aureus and E. coli growth at a concentration of 1 mg ml-1, while the ethyl acetate and ethanol fractions were effective at 10 mg ml-1 and 100 mg ml-1, respectively.
The Diversity of Causative Agent Associated With Bacterial Diseases on Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) with Molecular Based from Demak, Indonesia
Authors: Sarjito Sarjito , Haditomo A. Harjuno Condro , Desrina Desrina , Ariyati Restiana , Prayitno S. Budi
Published: August 2020

Bacterial diseases is frequently occur in catfish culture. The aim of this research was to find out the diversity of causative agent associated with bacterial diseases in catfish based on 16S rDNA gene sequences. The combination between exploratory in the field and experiment, method were applied. Seventeen isolates (D01–D17) were gained from kidney and external wound of moribound catfish with NA and GSP medium that were collected from fish pond of Demak Regency, Indonesia. Based on the postulat results showed that four isolates (D07, D10, D11 and  D14) that  were  caused  10–55% of fishes get sick  and  0–30%  fishes mortal.  On the other hand, there were 13 isolates do not cause both sick and mortality of fish.  On the basis of sequence 16S rDNA analysis, the result showed that D07, D10, D11 and D14 were closely related to Aeromonas caviae (96%), Aeromonas veronii (97%.), Plesiomonas shigelloides (97%) and Pseudomonas putida (96%) respectively. The sensitivity test result indicated that these causative agents have not sensitively to some fish drugs test.
Spawning Potential Ratio of Feather Back (Chitala Lopis) at Kampar River, Riau
Authors: Warsa Andri , Kartamihardja Endi Setiadi , Wibowo Arif
Published: August 2020

The feather back, Chitala lopis is an important economic fish, inhabit Kampar River and its population tend to decrease so that management and conservation efforts should be conducted.  Limited data of the feather back is one of the problems in formulating the management of the population. Spawning potential ratio (SPR) approach is an option being used in the management of the fish stock in the poor data. The study aimed to analysis spawning potential ratio of the feather back in Kampar River, Riau. The research has been conducted in May, August and October 2016. The total length at first capture (Lc) of feather back was less than the total length at first maturity (Lm) with the SPR value of 5 %. This condition could impact to decreasing the feather back stock. The SPR value should increased more than 20 % so the feather back population would been stable. Regulation of the fisheries was mainly limited mesh size of the gillnet operated should be applied.
Monofilament Gillnet Selectivity for Hampala Barb (Hampala macrolepidota) Management at Ir. H. Djuanda Reservoir-West Java
Authors: Warsa Andri , Astuti LIsmining Pujiyani
Published: August 2020

Ir. H. Djuanda Reservoir have high fishes biodiversity and one of them is Hampala barb (Hampala macrolepidota) and it’s economical species. Hampala barb is one of dominant species was captured at Ir. H. Djuanda Reservoir but was experience decreasing of population by overfishing. The objective of this research were to known gillnet selectivity and length at first mature for hampala barb (Hampala macrolepidota) at Ir. H. Djuanda Reservoir. The information will be used as base determination of gillnet mesh size and legal size for sustainability fisheries management. The research was done at February-September 2017 with experimental fishing used gillnet with mesh size between 1.0-3.0 inch with intervals 0.5 inch. Total length hampala barb with highest captured probability for gillnet with mesh size 1.0; 1.5; 2.0; 2.5 and 3.0 inch were 11.0; 17.0; 22.5; 28,0 and 33.5 cm respectively. Length at first mature of hampala barb for female and male were 14.2 and 13.8 cm respectively. Based on the information, the minimum total length for exploitation was 19 cm using gillnet with mesh size > 2.0 inch.
Carrageenan and Garlic Essensial Oil Edible Film as Protective Coating on Catfish Sausage
Authors: Dewi Eko Nurcahya , Purnamayati Lukita
Published: August 2020

The edible film based on carrageenan containing garlic essential oil (GEO) at different concentration (0%; 0,2%; 0,4%; and 0,6%) were added into carrageenan edible film (CEF) then applied on sausage, chilled storage for 10 days. The antioxidative allicin prevention on product determined its chemical characteristics such as TBA, TVBN, Aw, and pH. The addition of garlic essential oil on carrageenan based edible film was not significantly different on tensile strength. CEF with 0,6% of garlic essential oil produced the highest elongation value and the lowest Water Vapor Transmission Rate with the amount of 3,970% and 0,673%; respectively. The catfish sausage coated with 0,4% CEF produced TBA and TVBN value during chilled storage with the amount of 0,870 mg malonaldehyde/kg and 17,223 mgN/100g; respectively and not significantly different to CEF 0,6%. The result indicated that edible film containing garlic essential oil able to retard the oxidation process. Indicated from FTIR test, 0,2%; 0,4%; and 0,6% CEF containing garlic compound illustrated with S-S, N-H, C=O and C-H functional group with the wavelength of 408,91 cm-1, 925,83 cm-1, 1543,05 and 2931,8 cm-1.; respectively.
Propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Calidad de vida de Olson y Barnes en estudiantes limeños (ECVOB)
Authors: Grimaldo Muchotrigo Mirian Pilar , Correa Rojas Jossué David , Jara Sánchez Diego , Cirilo Acero Ingrid Belu , Aguirre Morales Marivel Teresa
Published: August 2020

La calidad de vida se refiere a la forma en que la persona percibe su vivencia cotidiana, considerando en ese proceso el componente social y cultural. Ello implica que para conocer la percepción de la calidad de vida es necesario considerar en su medición el ámbito de la salud física, psicológica, social, ambiental y personal. En esta línea uno de los instrumentos que se circunscribe a este enfoque es la Escala de Calidad de Vida de Barnes y Olson (ECVOB). Objetivo. El propósito del estudio fue determinar la validez basada en la estructura interna y la fiabilidad del ECVOB en escolares y universitarios de Lima. Método. El diseño del estudio es instrumental. Se utilizó la versión española de la ECVOB sobre una muestra de 1239 estudiantes limeños entre varones (57%) y mujeres (43%) de edades comprendidas entre 14 y 26 años (M edad   = 22.45; DE edad = 3.75). La evidencia de validez de la estructura interna se evaluó a través de un análisis factorial confirmatorio. Resultados. Los hallazgos sugieren una reestructuración parcial del modelo original de siete factores propuesto por Olson y Barnes. Conclusión. La nueva estructura de la ECVOB es una medida valida y fiable en escolares y universitarios limeños.
Long-Term Trajectories of BMI Predict Carotid Stiffness and Plaque Volume in Type 2 Diabetes Older Adults: a Cohort Study.
Authors: Moshe chen Botvin , Haratz Salo , Ravona-Springer Ramit , Heymann Anthony , Hung-Mo Lin , Beeri Michal Schnaider , Tanne David
Published: August 2020

Background: High body mass index (BMI) is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, its relationships with indices of carotid stiffness and plaque volume are unclear. We investigated associations of long-term measurements of BMI with indices of carotid stiffness and atherosclerosis among non-demented diabetes patients from the Israel Diabetes and Cognitive Decline (IDCD) study. Methods: Carotid ultrasound indices [carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), distensibility, elastography and plaque volume] were assessed in N=471 participants. Mean BMI across all MHS diabetes registry measurements and trajectories of BMI were calculated. BMI was categorized into three trajectory groups representing: a relatively stable normal weight (n=185, 44%), overweight trajectory (n=188, 44.8%) and a trajectory of obesity (n=47, 11.2%). Linear and logistic regressions estimated associations of carotid indices with mean BMI and BMI trajectories. Results: Compared to the normal weight trajectory, an obesity trajectory was associated with carotid distensibility (β=-3.078, p=0.037), cIMT (β=0.095, p=0.004), and carotid elastography (β=0.181, p=0.004) but not with plaque volume (β=0.066, p=0.858). Compared with the normal weight trajectory, an obesity trajectory was associated with increased odds for impaired carotid distensibility (OR=2.790, p=0.033), impaired cIMT (OR=5.277, p=0.001) and large carotid plaque volume (OR=8.456, p=0.013) but not with carotid elastography (OR=1.956, p=0.140). Mean BMI was linearly associated with Distensibility (β=-0.275, p=0.005) and cIMT (β=0.005, p=0.026).Conclusions: Long-term measurements of adiposity are associated with indices of carotid stiffness and plaque volume among older type 2 diabetes adults.
Electronic ordering and the management of treatment interdependencies: a qualitative study of paediatric chemotherapy
Authors: Lichtner Valentina , Franklin Bryony Dean , Dalla-Pozza Luciano , Westbrook Johanna I
Published: August 2020

Background: There are serious safety risks associated with chemotherapy, often associated with interdependencies in regimens administered over months or years. Various strategies are used to manage these risks. Computerized provider order entry (CPOE) systems are also implemented to improve medication safety. Little is known regarding the effect of CPOE on how clinicians manage chemotherapy interdependencies and their associated safety strategies.Methods: We conducted a multi-method qualitative study in a paediatric hospital. We analysed 827 oncology incidents reported following CPOE implementation and carried out semi-structured interviews with doctors (n=10), nurses (n=6), a pharmacist, and oncology CPOE team members (n=2). Results were interpreted according to safety models (ultra-safe, high-reliability organisations [HROs], or ultra-adaptive). Results: Incident reports highlighted two interrelated types of interdependencies: those within organisation of clinical activities and those inherent in chemotherapy regimens. Clinicians reported strategies to address chemotherapy risks and interdependencies. These included rigid rules and ‘no go’ contexts for treatment to proceed, typical of the ultra-safe model; use of time (e.g. planning only so far ahead) and sensitivity to operations, typical of HROs. We identified three different time horizons in CPOE use in relation to patients’ treatments: life-long, the whole regimen, and the ‘here and now’. CPOE supported ultra-safe strategies through automation and access to rules/standardisation, but also created difficulties and contributed to incidents. It supported the ‘here and now’ better than a life-long or whole regimen view of a patient treatment. Sensitivity to operations was essential to anticipate and resolve uncertainties, hazards, CPOE limitations, and mismatches between CPOE processes and workflow in practice. Conclusions: Within oncology, CPOE appears to move the ‘mix’ of risk strategies towards ultra-safe models of safety and protocol-mandated care. However, in order to operate ultra-safe strategies embedded in CPOE and stay on protocol it is essential for clinicians to be thoughtful and show sensitivity to operations in CPOE use. CPOE design can be advanced by better consideration of mechanisms to support interdependencies.
Atraumatic Restorative Treatment compared to the Hall Technique for occluso-proximal carious lesions in primary molars; 36-month follow-up of a randomised control trial in a school setting
Authors: Araujo Mariana Pinheiro , Innes Nicola Patricia , Bonifácio Clarissa Calil , Hesse Daniela , Olegário Isabel Cristina , Mendes Fausto Medeiros , Raggio Daniela Prócida
Published: August 2020

Background: Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) and the Hall Technique (HT) are both minimally invasive, non-aerosol generating procedures (non-AGPs). They seem to have never been directly compared, nor has the HT been studied in a non-clinical setting. This study compared the HT and ART restorations placed in a school setting after 36 months. Methods: Children (5-10 yo) who had a primary molar with an occluso-proximal carious lesion were allocated to the ART or HT arms. Primary outcome: restoration survival over 36-months (using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, log rank test, and Cox regression). Secondary outcomes: 1) occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) (1, 2, 3, 4 weeks) and 2) child self-reported discomfort; 3) treatment acceptability (immediately following interventions); 4) Child Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL), before treatment and after 6 months and 5) a post-hoc analysis of time to tooth exfoliation (1, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36 months).Results: One-hundred and thirty-one children (ART=65; HT=66) were included (mean age=8.1±1.2). At 36 months, 112 (85.5%) children were followed-up. Primary outcome: restoration survival rates ART=32.7% (SE=0.08; 95%CI=0.17-0.47); HT=93.4% (0.05; 0.72-0.99), p<0.001; Secondary outcomes: 1) OVD returned to pre-treatment state within 4 weeks; 2) treatment discomfort was higher for the HT (p=0.018); 3) over 70% of children and parents showed a high acceptability for treatments, with crown aesthetics being a concern for around 23% of parents; 4) Child OHRQoL improved after six months; and 5) teeth treated with the HT exfoliated earlier than those in the ART group (p=0.007).Conclusions: Both ART and the HT were acceptable to child participants and their parents and all parents thought both restorations protected their child’s tooth. However, the crown appearance concerned almost a quarter of parents in the HT arm. Children experienced less discomfort in the ART group. Although both treatments can be performed in a non-clinical setting and have the advantage of being non-aerosol generating procedures (non-AGPs), the HT had almost three times higher survival rates (93.4%) for restoring primary molar occluso-proximal cavities compared to ART (32.7%).
Subunits of ARID1 serve as novel biomarkers for the sensitivity to immune checkpoint inhibitors and prognosis of advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
Authors: Sun Dantong , Tian Lu , Zhu Yan , Wo Yang , Liu Qiaoling , Liu Shihai , Li Hong , Hou Helei
Published: August 2020

Introduction Patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) benefit from treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Biomarkers such as programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), the tumor mutational burden (TMB) and the mismatch repair (MMR) status are used to predict the prognosis of ICIs therapy. Nevertheless, novel biomarkers need to be further investigated, and a systematic prognostic model is needed for the evaluation of the survival risks of ICIs treatment.Methods A cohort of 240 patients who received ICIs from the cBioPortal for Cancer Genomics was evaluated in this research. Clinical information and targeted sequencing data were acquired for analyses. The Kaplan-Meier plot method was used to perform survival analyses, and selected variables were then confirmed by a novel nomogram constructed by the “rms” package of R software.Results Seven percent of the NSCLC patients harbored ARID1A mutations, while 4% of the NSCLC patients harbored ARID1B mutations. Mutations in ARID1A and ARID1B were confirmed to be associated with sensitivity to ICIs. Patients harboring these mutations were found to have a better response to treatment (ARID1A: P=0.045; ARID1B: P=0.034) and prolonged progression-free survival (ARID1B: P=0.032). Here, a novel nomogram was constructed to predict the prognosis of ICIs treatment. Elevation of the TMB, enhanced expression of PD-L1 and activation of the antigen presentation process and cellular immunity were found to be correlated with ARID1A and ARID1B mutations.Conclusion ARID1A and ARID1B could serve as novel biomarkers for the prognosis and sensitivity to ICIs of advanced NSCLC.
High turnover in clinical dietetics: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Hewko Sarah J , Oyesegun Amirah , Clow Samantha , VanLeeuwen Charlene
Published: August 2020

Background: Relationships between dietitians and other healthcare providers can impact the degree to which patient care is collaborative; inefficient communication can lead to suboptimal care. It takes time for multidisciplinary team members to build collaborative, trusting relationships. For this reason, frequent dietitian turnover (or “churn”) is of concern. Consequences include fewer referrals to clinical dietetic services and limited provider continuity. The characteristics of clinical dietetic jobs associated with churn have not been identified. The principal investigator’s professional experience and a review of the literature led us to predict that managers would identify disease prestige as having an impact on churn. In this article, we report the qualitative results of a multi-method study that we conducted to explore: 1) characteristics of clinical dietetic jobs in the public sector associated with the most churn, and 2) consequences of churn on patients and managers of clinical dietitians. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with ten managers of clinical dietitians in the Canadian public health care system. We conducted a thematic analysis that was both inductive and deductive. Results: We identified four themes: i) Avoidable factors that contribute to churn often reflect intersecting human resource management issues; ii) Unavoidable factors that contribute to church frequently result from a decision made by the departing dietitian; iii) High churn in select positions has a disproportionately negative impact on patients served by dietitians in those high churn positions, and iv) Consequences of churn can be long-lasting and result in less efficient dietetic practice and reduced access to medical nutrition therapy. As predicted, prestige was perceived as playing a role in triggering dietitian turnover – however, prestige was more commonly attributed to employment in a respected institution than to providing treatment for a particular disease or condition. Conclusions: Managers of publicly-employed dietitians identified many factors as contributing to churn. Managers observed churn resulting in low provider continuity and limiting patient access to dietitians. More research is needed to better understand factors contributing to churn among Canadian clinical dietitians.﻿Trial Registration: Not applicable.
Functional Profiling of Saliva Microbiome is Essential for Oral Cancer Prediction
Authors: Chen Jiung-Wen , Chiang Wei-Fan , Wu Jer-Horng , Chen Yuh-Ling , Wu Wei-Sheng , Wu Li-Wha
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to a need to make corrections.
Suppressor of Variegation 3-9 Homologue 1 Impairment and Neutrophil-Skewed Systemic Inflammation Are Associated with Comorbidities in COPD
Authors: Chen Tzu-Tao , Wu Sheng-Ming , Chen Kuan-Yuan , Tseng Chien-Hua , Ho Shu-Chuan , Chuang Hsiao-Chi , Feng Po-Hao , Liu Wen-Te , Han Chia-Li , Huang Erick Wan-Chun , Yeh Yun-Kai , Lee Kang-Yun
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND: Systemic manifestations and comorbidities are characteristics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and are probably due to systemic inflammation. The histone methyltransferase SUV39H1 controls the Th1/Th2 balance. We previously reported that reduced SUV39H1 expression contributed to abnormal inflammation in COPD.METHODS: To assess whether impaired SUV39H1 expression in COPD patients leads to neutrophilic inflammation, downstream responses to IL-8 and suppression of Th2 responses, the SUV39H1 levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 10 healthy subjects and 14 COPD patients were measured by immunoblotting. Clinical outcomes associated with SUV39H1-related inflammation were also studied. The relationships between SUV39H1 and neutrophil or eosinophil (Th2 response) counts and clinical outcomes were evaluated. In an extended COPD cohort (213 patients), association analyses of blood cell counts with comorbidities and exacerbations were performed.RESULTS: Low SUV39H1 expression was associated with high neutrophil counts and a trend towards low eosinophil counts. In the extended cohort, the high comorbidity group had higher neutrophil counts than the low comorbidity group but similar whole white blood cell counts. The eosinophil percentage and eosinophil/neutrophil ratio displayed contrasting results. The proportion of neutrophils was correlated with COPD comorbidities. Patients with 0-1 moderate to severe exacerbations in the past year had numbers of neutrophils and eosinophils similar to those of patients who experienced more than an exacerbation. Finally, patients with high comorbidities had lower SUV39H1 levels in their PBMCs than did those with low comorbidities.CONCLUSION: Blood neutrophil counts are associated with comorbidities in COPD patients. Impaired SUV39H1 expression in PBMCs from COPD patients are correlated with neutrophilic inflammation and comorbidities.
Non-canonical function of DGCR8 in DNA double-strand break repair signaling and tumor radioresistance
Authors: Hang Qinglei , Zeng Liyong , Wang Li , Nie Litong , Yao Fan , Teng Hongqi , Yap Shannon , Sun Yutong , Frank Steven , Chen Junjie , Ma Li
Published: August 2020

Cells respond to cytotoxic DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) by recruiting repair proteins to the damaged sites. During the DNA damage response, ubiquitin signaling plays a critical role in coordinating protein recruitment. Here, we find that the microRNA biogenesis factor DGCR8 promotes tumor resistance to X-ray radiation independently of its Drosha-binding ability. In response to radiation, the deubiquitinase USP51 and the kinase ATM mediate the stabilization and activation of DGCR8 through deubiquitination and phosphorylation, respectively. While radiation-induced USP51 binds, deubiquitinates, and stabilizes DGCR8, ATM-dependent phosphorylation of DGCR8 at serine 677 leads to the recruitment of DGCR8 and DGCR8’s binding partner RNF168 to MDC1 and RNF8. This, in turn, promotes ubiquitination of histone H2A, repair of DSBs, and radioresistance. Altogether, these findings reveal the non-canonical function of DGCR8 in DSB repair and suggest that radiation treatment may result in therapy-induced tumor radioresistance through USP51- and ATM-mediated upregulation and activation of DGCR8.
Harnessing machine learning to boost heuristic strategies for phylogenetic-tree search
Authors: Azouri Dana , Abadi Shiran , Mansour Yishay , Mayrose Itay , Pupko Tal
Published: August 2020

Inferring a phylogenetic tree, which describes the evolutionary relationships among a set of organisms, genes, or genomes, is a fundamental step in numerous evolutionary studies. With the aim of making tree inference feasible for problems involving more than a handful of sequences, current algorithms for phylogenetic tree reconstruction utilize various heuristic approaches. Such approaches rely on performing costly likelihood optimizations, and thus evaluate only a subset of all potential trees. Consequently, all existing methods suffer from the known tradeoff between accuracy and running time. Here, we train a machine-learning algorithm over an extensive cohort of empirical data to predict the neighboring trees that increase the likelihood, without actually computing their likelihood. This provides means to safely discard a large set of the search space, thus avoiding numerous expensive likelihood computations. Our analyses suggest that machine-learning approaches can make heuristic tree searches substantially faster without losing accuracy and thus could be incorporated for narrowing down the examined neighboring trees of each intermediate tree in any tree search methodology.
Hominin Ecology of the Early Oldowan 2 Ma
Authors: Mercader Julio , Akuku Pamela , Boivin Nicole , Bugumba Revocatus , Bushozi Pastory , Camacho Alfredo , Carter Tristan , Clarke Siobhán , Cueva-Temprana Arturo , Durkin Paul , Favreau Julien , Fella Kelvin , Haberle Simon , Hubbard Stephen , Inwood Jamie , Itambu Makarius , Koromo Samson , Lee Patrick , Mohammed Abdallah , Mwambwiga Aloyce , Olesilau Lucas , Patalano Robert , Roberts Patrick , Rule Susan , Saladie Palmira , Siljedal Gunnar , Soto María , Umbsaar Jonathan , Petraglia Michael
Published: August 2020

Environmental change is key for human evolution, especially at times of anatomical and behavioral change in life histories, such as the origin of meat consumption, economic diversification, and dispersal. However, for the earliest phase of human evolution featuring the technology-dependent hominins that shaped our lineage since 2.6 Ma, the Oldowan, there is a dearth of archaeological evidence directly associated with rich chronostratigraphic and environmental datasets amenable to tracking ecological change and adaptation to new physiographic conditions. One place where this type of information has been recently retrieved is the Western Plio-Pleistocene rift basin of Olduvai Gorge (now Oldupai), Tanzania. We explore habitat range by Oldowan-bearing hominins amidst extremely diverse ecosystems throughout a stratified sequence 235 ka-long, thus predating by >180 ka the earliest landmark fossil hominins and classic Oldowan from the Eastern side of the basin. Our study provides multi-proxy evidence of environmental adaptability, demonstrating colonisation of fresh volcanic landscapes and occupation of fast-changing biomes by 2 Ma.
Three Thousand Year Paleotsunami History of Southern Part of Japan Trench
Authors: Higaki Hokuto , Goto Kazuhisa , Yanagisawa Hideaki , Sugawara Daisuke , Ishizawa Takashi
Published: August 2020

Paleotsunami studies along the southern part of Japan Trench are scarce. Additional geological evidence must be collected. This study conducted field survey and multi-proxy analysis for drilling cores taken from a pond of Choshi City, Chiba prefecture, Japan, where the 1677 Enpo tsunami deposit was reported earlier. The pond is suitable for detection of sedimentary evidence of low-frequency but large tsunamis only because it is located at a high elevation (11 m). Three event deposits are intercalated in the three thousand year long continuous mud and peat sequences. Based on multi-proxy analyses conducted of grain size distributions, diatom assemblages, and geochemical markers, these event deposits were identified as tsunami deposits; the most recent was the AD 1677 Enpo tsunami. The estimated recurrence interval of the tsunami is approximately 700 years, which is comparable to those of the central part of the Japan Trench. It is noteworthy that the timing of these tsunami events along the southern part of the Japan Trench seems to have been close (few tens of years intervals) before or after the occurrence of large earthquakes and tsunamis along the central part of the Japan Trench. Therefore, a spatial-temporal relation of earthquake and tsunami generations might exist between central and southern parts of the Japan Trench, which might be explained by drastic changes of stress fields surrounding the rupture area of a huge earthquake. Considering the current situation, by which the Mw=9.0 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake had occurred at central part of the Japan Trench, this possibility should be investigated carefully from perspectives of seismology and history because risks of future occurrence of large earthquake and tsunami events along the southern part of Japan Trench might be extremely high.
Comparing Cost and Print Time Estimates for Six Commercially-Available 3D Printers Obtained Through Slicing Software for Clinically Relevant Anatomical Models
Authors: Chen Joshua Vic , Dang Alan BC , Dang Alexis
Published: August 2020

Background3D printed patient-specific anatomical models have been applied clinically to orthopaedic care for surgical planning and patient education. The estimated cost and print time per model for 3D printers have not yet been compared with clinically representative models across multiple printing technologies. This study investigates six commercially available 3D printers: Prusa i3 MK3S, Formlabs Form 2, Formlabs Form 3, LulzBot TAZ 6, Stratasys F370, and Stratasys J750 Digital Anatomy.MethodsSeven representative orthopaedic standard tessellation models derived from anonymized CT scans were imported into the respective slicing software for each 3D printer. For each 3D printer and corresponding print setting, the slicing software provides a computed print time and material use estimate. Material quantity was used to calculate estimated model cost. Print settings investigated were infill percentage, layer height, and model orientation on the print bed. The slicing software investigated are Cura LulzBot Edition 3.6.20, GrabCAD Print 1.43, PreForm 3.4.6, and PrusaSlicer 2.2.0.ResultsThe effect of changing infill between 15% and 20% on estimated print time and material use appears to be negligible. Orientation of the model has considerable impact on time and cost with worst-case differences being as much as 39.30% added print time and 34.56% added costs. Averaged across all investigated settings, horizontal model orientation on the print bed minimizes estimated print time for all 3D printers, while vertical model orientation generally minimizes cost with the exception of Stratasys J750 Digital Anatomy, in which horizontal model orientation also minimized cost. Decreasing layer height for all investigated 3D printers increased estimated print time and decreased estimated cost with the exception of Stratasys F370, in which cost increased. The difference in material cost was approximately two orders of magnitude between the least and most-expensive printers.ConclusionsAll investigated 3D printers in this study have the potential for clinical utility. Print time and print cost are dependent on orientation of anatomy and the 3D printers and settings selected. Cost-effective clinical 3D printing of anatomic models should consider an appropriate printer for the complexity of the anatomy and the experience of the printer technicians.
Rapid endogenic rock recycling in magmatic arcs
Authors: Li Junyong , Tang Ming , Lee Cin-Ty , Wang Xiaolei , Gu Zhi-Dong , Xia Xiao-Ping , Wang Di , Du De-Hong , Li Lin-Sen
Published: August 2020

In subduction zones, materials on Earth’s surface can be transported to the deep crust or mantle, but the exact mechanisms and the nature of the recycled materials are not fully understood. Here, we report a set of migmatites from western Yangtze Block, China. These migmatites have similar bulk compositions as forearc sediments. Zircon age distribution and Hf–O isotopes indicate that the precursors of the sediments were predominantly derived from juvenile arc crust itself. Using phase equilibria modelling, we show that the sediments experienced high temperature-to-pressure ratio metamorphism and were most likely transported to deep arc crust by intracrustal thrust faults. By dating the magmatic zircon cores and overgrowth rims, we find that the entire rock cycle, from arc magmatism, to weathering at the surface, then to burial and remelting in the deep crust, took place within ~ 10 Ma. Our findings highlight thrust faults as an efficient recycling channel in compressional arcs and endogenic recycling as an important mechanism driving internal redistribution and differentiation of arc crust.
Forever young white dwarfs: when stellar ageing stops
Authors: Camisassa Maria , Althaus Leandro , Torres Santiago , Córsico Alejandro , Cheng Sihao , Rebassa-Mansergas Alberto
Published: August 2020

White dwarf stars are the most common end point of stellar evolution. In particular, ultra-massive white dwarfs are expected to harbour oxygen-neon (ONe) cores as a result of single standard stellar evolution. However, a fraction of them could have carbon-oxygen (CO) cores and be born as a result of merger events. Recent observations provided by Gaia space mission, indicate that a fraction of the ultra-massive white dwarfs experience a strong delay in their cooling, which cannot be attributed only to the occurrence of crystallization, thus requiring an unknown energy source able to prolong their life for long periods of time. Here, we show that the energy released by 22Ne sedimentation in ultra-massive white dwarfs with CO cores is at the root of the long cooling delay of these stars. Our results provide solid sustain to the existence of CO-core ultra-massive white dwarfs and the occurrence of stellar mergers.
Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection Combined with Radio Frequency for the Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A 2-year Follow-up
Authors: Wei Wenbo , Dang Shajie , Wei Ling , Liu Tian , Wang Jue
Published: August 2020

Objective: To assess the therapeutic efficacy of transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) combined with radio frequency (RF) for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods: A total of 230 patients participated in the study: TFESI (Group T, n=110), TFESI combined with RF (Group TR, n=120). Visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI) and Global perceived effect (GPE) scale were measured pre-operation, 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after the operation. Hospitalization time, operation time, complications, and recurrence were compared between the two groups.Results: The VAS and ODI at each observation point of the post-operation were significantly decreased compared with the pre-operation in both groups (P < 0.05). There was no statistically different of VAS and ODI between the two groups at 1 and 3 months of the post-operation (P > 0.05). However, The VAS and ODI scores in Group TR were significantly lower than that in Group T at 6, 12 and 24 months of the post-operation (P < 0.05). The GPE in group TR was high in the early days, while that at 1 and 3 month after treatment was significantly higher than that in group T (P < 0.05). The recurrence rate in Group TR was lower than that in Group T (P = 0.002). There was no significant difference of hospitalization time, complications, VAS and ODI score at the pre-operation between the two groups (P > 0.05).Conclusion: These findings suggest that TFESI combined with RF could effectively improve the pain and function, and had a long-term satisfactory effect for the treatment of LDH.
Elevated oxygen demand in a case of COVID-19 with severe ARDS: a point for optimal oxygenation therapy including ECMO management
Authors: Oshima Taku , Oami Takehiko , Yamashiro Mana , Higashi Akiko , Hayashi Yosuke , Suga Natsumi , Takayanagi Shin , Sakao Seiichiro , Nakada Taka-aki
Published: August 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has become a global pandemic, and those developing critically ill conditions have been reported to have mortality in the range of 39% to 61%. Due to the lack of definitive treatments, mechanical ventilation and supportive oxygenation therapy are key management strategies for the survival of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Optimizing oxygenation therapy is mandatory to treat patients with severe respiratory failure, to sufficiently compensate for the oxygen (O2) demand. We experienced a case of severe ARDS due to COVID-19 successfully treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) after increasing oxygen delivery according to O2 consumption measurement by indirect calorimetryCase Presentation: A 29-year-old obese but otherwise healthy man was hospitalized for treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia presenting with a 4-day history of persisting cough, high fever, and dyspnea. Mechanical ventilation, nitric oxide inhalation, and prone positioning were initiated in the ICU against severe respiratory dysfunction. Indirect calorimetry on the 3rd and 6th ICU days revealed persistent elevation of oxygen consumption (VO2) of 380 mL/min. Veno-venous ECMO was initiated on the 7th ICU day after further deterioration of respiratory failure. Periodic events of SpO2 decline due to effortful breathing was not resolved by neuromuscular blockade in attempt to reduce O2 consumption. Increasing the ECMO flow induced hemolysis and hyperkalemia despite the use of large bore cannulas and ECMO circuit free of clots and defects. The hemoglobin management level was elevated from 10 g/dL to 13 g/dL to increase blood oxygen capacity, enabling the reduction of ECMO flow while attenuating respiratory effort and maintaining SpO2. Lung protective ventilation strategy and prone positioning were continued for successful weaning from ECMO on the 16th ICU day, and the ventilator on the 18th ICU day.Conclusion: The present case of severe ARDS due to COVID-19 was successfully treated with ECMO. Enhancing oxygen delivery was crucial to compensate for the elevated O2 demand. Measuring O2 consumption by indirect calorimetry can elucidate the oxygen demand for optimizing the oxygenation therapy for successful management and survival of critically ill COVID-19 patients.
How Signaling Games Explain Mimicry at Many Levels: From Viral Epidemiology to Human Sociology
Authors: Casey William , Massey Steven , Mishra Bud
Published: August 2020

Mimicry is exhibited in multiple scales, ranging from molecular, to organismal, and then to human society. ‘Batesian’ type mimicry entails a conflict of interest between sender and receiver, reflected in a deceptive mimic signal. ‘Mullerian’ type mimicry occurs when there is perfect common interest between sender and receiver, manifested by an honest co-mimic signal. Using a signaling games approach, simulations show that invasion by Batesian mimics will make Mullerian mimicry unstable, in a coevolutionary chase. We use these results to better understand the deceptive strategies of SARS-CoV-2 and their key role in the COVID-19 pandemic. At the biomolecular level, we explain how cellularization promotes Mullerian molecular mimicry, and discourages Batesian molecular mimicry. A wide range of processes analogous to cellularization are presented; these might represent a manner of reducing oscillatory instabilities. Lastly, we identify examples of mimicry in human society, that might be addressed using a signaling game approach.
Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development: State Capacity to Revitalize the Healthcare System in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Rahman Redwan , Qattan Ameerah
Published: August 2020

Vision 2030 is seen as a contributing factor to diversifying the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s economy and stimulating numerous changes in its social sectors, including in the health sector. Sustainable Development (SD)2030 is a global consensual agreement among nation states to build a sustainable, desirable and progressively interrelated world. Achieving the Sustainable Development 2030 is seen as a main component of development for health. This article explores the state capacity and the role of Vision2030 and Sustainable Development 2030 in the revitalizing the healthcare system in Saudi Arabia. Systematic review and thematic data analysis technique are used as method of this study. The Saudi government highlighted and emphasized Vision 2030 to improve population health and the world body emphasized that Sustainable Development 2030 will contribute to “healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”. Saudi Arabia’s Vision2030 encourages the state to play a renewed role in development in the light of the UN’s declaration of the ‘right to development’. In pursuing development, the state must have necessary institutional environment in sustaining capacity, resources and interactions among groups for realizing constructive roles and functions in maintaining state affairs. The government needs to develop a sustainable healthcare system by adding to health human resources, building public-private partnership, and efficient use of resources through stewardship, good governance, accountability, and transparency.