bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The β-catenin/TCF-4 pathway regulates the expression of OPN in human osteoarthritic chondrocytes
Authors: Tian Jian , Gao Shu-Guang , Li Yu-Sheng , Cheng Chao , Deng Zhen-Han , Luo Wei , Zhang Fang-Jie
Published: August 2020

Background: Cartilage destruction is the main characteristic of osteoarthritis (OA), and osteopontin (OPN) is elevated in OA articular cartilage; however, the reason for the increased OPN level is not determined. In addition, Wnt/β-catenin signaling participates in the progression of OA. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether canonical Wnt signaling could regulate the expression of OPN in human chondrocytes in vitro.Methods: Human chondrocytes were cultured in vitro, and we first assayed the mRNA levels of OPN and β-catenin in chondrocytes. Next, we performed transient transfection of TCF 4 shRNA into chondrocytes to inhibit TCF 4 expression and explore changes in the OPN level. Then, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitor Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1) was incubated with chondrocytes, and we assayed the changes in β-catenin and OPN.Results: Our results showed that the expression of both β-catenin and OPN was increased in OA chondrocytes, but there were no correlations between β-catenin and OPN expression. TCF4 shRNA downregulated the expression of TCF 4 and OPN in chondrocytes, while after treatment with rDKK-1 at a concentration of 400 ng/ml for 24 h, the mRNA and protein expression of both β-catenin and OPN was significantly decreased in chondrocytes.Conclusions: Elevated OPN expression might be regulated by the β-catenin/TCF-4 pathway, and the Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor DKK1 could inhibit the expression of β-catenin and OPN in OA chondrocytes.
Protocol for CardioCluster Creation
Authors: Monsanto Megan M , Sussman Mark A
Published: August 2020

Cellular therapy to treat heart failure is an ongoing focus of intense research, but with limited progress due to limitations in engraftment and persistence of injected cells. Engineered augmentation of established cellular effectors overcomes impediments, enhancing reparative activity. Such ‘next generation’ implementation includes delivery of combinatorial cell populations working together synergistically to improve heart function following injury. Concurrent isolation and expansion of 3 distinct cardiac-derived interstitial cell types from human heart tissue prompted design of a 3D structure that maximizes cellular interaction, allows for defined cell ratios, controls size, enables injectability, and minimizes cell loss. Here we describe a method wherein, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and c-Kit+ cardiac interstitial cells (cCICs) when cultured together spontaneously form scaffold-free 3D microenvironments we have termed 'CardioClusters'.
Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli activates nitrate respiration to benefit from the inflammatory response for initiation of microcolony-formation
Authors: Nada Risa , Ebihara Shinya , Yen Hilo , Tobe Toru
Published: August 2020

Background: For successful colonization, enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) injects virulence factors, called effectors, into target cells through the type three secretion system (T3SS), which is composed of a needle and basal body. Under anaerobic conditions, the T3SS machinery remains immature and does not have a needle structure. However, activation of nitrate respiration enhances the completion of the T3SS machinery. Because nitric oxide released by the host inflammatory response increases nitrate concentration, we sought to determine the effect of the inflammatory response on initiation of EHEC microcolony-formation. Results: The colony-forming capacity was increased in accordance with the increase of nitrate in the medium. The addition of the nitric oxide-producing agent NOR-4 also enhanced the adherence capacity, which was dependent on nitrate reductase encoded by the narGHJI genes. Culture supernatant of epithelial cells, which was stimulated by a cytokine mixture, enhanced the colony-forming capacity of wild-type EHEC but not of the narGHJI mutant. Finally, colony formation by wild-type EHEC on epithelial cells, which were preincubated with heat-killed bacteria, was higher than the narGHJI mutant, and this effect was abolished by aminoguanidine hydrochloride, which is an iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase) inhibitor. Conclusions: These results indicate that the inflammatory response enhances EHEC adherence by increasing nitrate concentration.
Energy drink: the consumption prevalence, and awareness of its potential health implications among commercial drivers in the Ho Municipality of Ghana
Authors: Saku Emmanuella Yayra , Nuro-Ameyaw Peter , Amenya Priscilla Cecilia , Kpodo Fidelis Mawunyo , Amoafo Paul Esua , Kortei Nii Korley
Published: August 2020

Background: Consumption of energy drinks has become an escalating global public health problem. The work schedule and irregular sleeping habits of commercial bus drivers make them highly susceptible to getting fatigued, hence most of them consume energy drinks as a fatigue management strategy. However, consumption of energy drinks produces numerous psychomotor side effects that if consumed among drivers puts the traveling public in danger of road accidents. This study sought to assess the prevalence of energy drink consumption and awareness of associated potential health problems among commercial long-distance bus drivers operating from the Ho municipality. Methods: The study population comprised about 266 commercial bus drivers. This was a cross-sectional study involving 132 participants who completed a structured questionnaire on the participants' socio-demographic characteristics, frequency of consumption and reasons for consumption. It also included questions to assess the knowledge of the ingredients and side effects of energy drinks. Respondents were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Descriptive analysis and Chi-square test of association were used to analyse the data. Results: A majority (62.1%) of the drivers had more than 10 years of commercial driving experience. A 75% energy drink consumption prevalence was recorded with driving performance enhancement (78.8%) as the predominant reason for consumption. 7 - 10 bottles per week were consumed by most (32.2%) of the drivers. Also, 72.0% had poor knowledge of the side effects linked with energy drink consumption as well as the ingredients for preparation. Conclusion: Energy drinks were consumed by the majority of the drivers at the Ho main bus terminal of which most of the drivers had poor knowledge of the potential health problems linked with the consumption of these drinks. The consumption of energy drinks was observed to be higher among the drivers with lower education levels, higher monthly income and those who worked long hours in a day. The Ghana National Road Safety Commission (GNRC) in collaboration with other private road transport unions in Ghana should organize regular seminars for commercial bus drivers on the potential dangers and effects associated with energy drink consumption.
Clinical Significance of MicroRNA-155 Regulated Autophagy and Apoptosis by targeting gene Rictor/Fos in Gastric Cancer Progression
Authors: Chen Gang , Li Yu , Ren Zhijian , Gu Yanmei , Tang Futian , Mao Jie , Zhu Junmin , Wang Ling , Li Yumin
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Evaluating plant residue decline data with KinGUII and TREC: results from case studies involving also non-SFO kinetic models
Authors: Ebeling Markus , Hammel Klaus
Published: August 2020

Background: Foliage residue decline data are used to refine the risk assessment for herbivorous birds and mammals foraging in fields treated with plant protection products. For evaluation, current EFSA guidance has a clear focus on single-first order (SFO) kinetic models. However, other kinetic models are well established in other areas of environmental risk evaluations (eg, soil residue assessment), and easy-to-use calculation tools have become available now. We provide case studies with 6 fungicides how such evaluations can be conducted with two of these tools (KinGUII and TREC) that have been developed by Bayer.Results: SFO kinetics provided the best fits only for 13 of 36 residue decline studies conducted in a standardized design under field conditions. Biphasic models (double first order in parallel, hockey stick) were often superior and sometimes more conservative for risk assessment. The additional effort is manageable when using software such as KinGUII and TREC, and appears justified by the more reliable outcome of the evaluations.Conclusions: Further research would be useful to better assess the extent to which non-SFO better fits foliage residue decline, but our study suggests that it may be a significant proportion. Therefore we encourage the use of biphasic models in the regulatory risk assessment for herbivorous birds and mammals, in the ongoing revision of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidance document from 2009.
High-viscosity bone cement for vertebral compression fractures: a prospective study on intravertebral diffusion and leakage of bone cement
Authors: Wang Meiyong , Jin Qunhua
Published: August 2020

Background: Bone cement leakage causes severe complication following percutaneous vertebroplasty. This study probed the diffusion and leakage status of bone cement injected within diverged time duration, so as to find the optimal injection time for bone cement. Methods: A total of 70 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with a symptom of low back pain, who underwent treatment at hospital were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomized into three groups: <180 s, 180-300, and >300 s of injection time duration from the beginning to the completion of the injection. The scenarios of vertebral bone cement leakage and diffusion were inspected using postoperative CT.Results: The diffusion coefficient was higher in group A than in group B whereas it was higher in group B than in group C, but without statistical significance among the three groups. The leakage rate was without statistical significance among the three groups. The injection time of bone cement was negatively correlated with the diffusion coefficient, at the correlation coefficient of -0.253. Conclusions: The diffusion coefficient of high-viscosity bone cement is negatively correlated with the injection time, and the leakage rate of high-viscosity bone cement does not reduce with the prolongation of injection time.
The Physical Activity Wearables in the Police Force (PAW-Force) study:Acceptability and impact 
Authors: Buckingham Sarah Ann , Morrissey Karyn , Williams Andrew James , Price Lisa , Harrison John
Published: August 2020

Background: Policing is a highly stressful and increasingly sedentary occupation. The study aim was to assess the acceptability and impact of a mobile health (mHealth) technology intervention (Fitbit® activity monitor and ‘Bupa Boost’ smartphone app) to promote physical activity (PA) and reduce sedentary time in the police force.Methods: Single-group, pre-post, mixed methods pilot study. Police officers and staff (n=180) were recruited from two police forces in South West England. Participants used the technology for 12 weeks (an ‘individual’ then ‘social’ phase) followed by five months of optional use. Data sources included Fitbit®-recorded objective step count, questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews (n=32). Outcome assessment points were baseline (week 0), mid-intervention (week 6), post-intervention (week 12) and follow-up (month 8). Paired t-tests were used to investigate changes in quantitative outcomes. Qualitative analysis involved framework and thematic analysis.Results: Changes in mean daily step count were non-significant (p>0.05), but self-reported PA increased in the short term (e.g. +465.4 MET-minutes/week total PA baseline to week 12, p=0.011) and longer term (e.g. +420.5 MET-minutes/week moderate-to-vigorous PA baseline to month 8, p=0.024). The greatest impact on behaviour was perceived by less active officers and staff. There were no significant changes in sedentary time; the qualitative findings highlighted the importance of context and external influences on behaviour. There were no statistically significant changes (all p-values >0.05) in any secondary outcomes (physical and mental health-related quality of life, perceived stress and perceived productivity), with the exception of an improvement in mental health-related quality of life (SF-12 mental component score +1.75 points, p=0.020) from baseline to month 8. Engagement with and perceived acceptability of the intervention was high overall, but a small number of participants reported negative physical (skin irritation) and psychological (feelings of guilt and anxiety) consequences of technology use. Individual app features (such as goal-setting and self-monitoring) were generally preferred to social components (social comparison, competitions and support). Conclusions: mHealth technology is an acceptable and potentially impactful intervention for increasing PA in the police force. The intervention was less useful for reducing sedentary time and the impact on secondary outcomes is unclear.Trial registration: NCT03169179 (registered 30th May 2017).
Drug resistance markers within an evolving efficacy of anti-malarial drugs in Cameroon: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Niba Peter Thelma Ngwa , Nji Akindeh M. , Evehe Marie-Solange , Ali Innocent M. , Netongo Palmer Masumbe , Ngwafor Randolph , Moyeh Marcel N. , Ngum Lesley Ngum , Ndum Oliva Ebie , Acho Fon Abongwa , Mbu'u Cyrille Mbanwi , Fosah Dorothy A. , Atogho-Tiedeu Barbara , Achonduh-Atijegbe Olivia , Dadjeu Rosine , Chedjou Jean Paul Kengne , Bigoga Jude D. , Moukoko Carole Else Eboumbou , Ajua Anthony , Achidi Eric , Tallah Esther , Leke Rose G. F. , Tourgordi Alexis , Ringwald Pascal , Alifrangis Michael , Mbacham Wilfred F.
Published: August 2020

Background: Cameroon remains a country faced with high malaria burden despite enormous efforts made in the control of the disease. The rapid development and dispersal of mutations associated with anti-malarial drug resistance influenced policy changes from the use of chloroquine, amodiaquine and sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine to the adoption of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria. Different studies have identified the frequency of key markers in Plasmodium falciparum associated with drug resistance without a clear picture on the localisation of potential hotspots that may drive the emergence of resistance to the currently used ACTs. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to determine the prevalence and distribution of P. falciparum drug resistance markers within an evolving efficacy of anti-malarial drugs in Cameroon from 1990 to present.Methods: The PRISMA, PRISMA-P and STREGA statements will be adopted in the quality assessments of studies to be included in this review. The electronic databases of Medline via Pubmed, EMBASE, Google Scholar and Science Direct will be searched by two independent researchers using different MeSH terms and Boolean operators (AND, OR). More so, unpublished data that will be sourced from academic libraries will also be extracted. Quantitative syntheses will be done using the “metaphor” and “meta” commands in the R statistical software package version 3.5.2. Heterogeneity will be assessed using Cochrane Q and the I2. The random effect model will be used as benchmark to combine studies showing heterogeneity.Discussion: The primary outcome of this review is to identify and describe molecular markers conferring drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum parasites that have been circulating for a period of over 30 years in Cameroon. This review will be able to pool data from previously published and unpublished studies on anti-malarial drug resistance gene mutations. This will provide evidence to support the continuous use of ACTs in the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. Moreover, it is also hoped that potential hotspots driving the emergence and spread of anti-malarial resistance markers will be identified. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020162620
Association of relapse-linked ARID5B single nucleotide polymorphisms with drug resistance in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines
Authors: TAMAI MINORI , Huang Meixian , Kagami Keiko , Abe Masako , Somazu Shinpei , Shinohara Tamao , Harama Daisuke , Watanabe Atsushi , Akahane Koshi , Goi Kumiko , Sugita Kanji , Goto Hiroaki , Minegishi Masayoshi , Iwamoto Shotaro , Inukai Takeshi
Published: August 2020

Background

The genetic variants of the ARID5B gene have recently been reported to be associated with disease susceptibility and treatment outcome in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, few studies have explored the association of ARID5B with sensitivities to chemotherapeutic agents.

Methods

We genotyped susceptibility-linked rs7923074 and rs10821936 as well as relapse-linked rs4948488, rs2893881, and rs6479778 of ARDI5B by direct sequencing of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products in 72 B-cell precursor-ALL (BCP-ALL) cell lines established from Japanese patients. We also quantified their ARID5B expression levels by real-time reverse transcription PCR, and determined their 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values by alamarBlue assays in nine representative chemotherapeutic agents used for ALL treatment.

Results

No significant associations were observed in genotypes of the susceptibility-linked single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the relapsed-linked SNPs with ARID5B gene expression levels. Of note, IC50 values of vincristine (VCR) (median IC50: 39.6 ng/ml) in 12 cell lines with homozygous genotype of risk allele (C) in the relapse-linked rs4948488 were significantly higher (p=0.031 in Mann–Whitney U test) than those (1.04 ng/ml) in 60 cell lines with heterozygous or homozygous genotypes of the non-risk allele (T). Furthermore, the IC50 values of mafosfamide [Maf; active metabolite of cyclophosphamide (CY)] and cytarabine (AraC) tended to be associated with the genotype of rs4948488. Similar associations were observed in genotypes of the relapse-linked rs2893881 and rs6479778, but not in those of the susceptibility-linked rs7923074 and rs10821936. In addition, the IC50 values of methotrexate (MTX) were significantly higher (p=0.023) in 36 cell lines with lower ARID5B gene expression (median IC50: 37.1 ng/ml) than those in the other 36 cell lines with higher expression (16.9 ng/ml).

Conclusion

These observations in 72 BCP-ALL cell lines suggested that the risk allele of the relapse-linked SNPs of ARID5B may be involved in a higher relapse rate because of resistance to chemotherapeutic agents such as VCR, CY, and AraC. In addition, lower ARID5B gene expression may be associated with MTX resistance.
A standardized framework to evaluate the quality of studies using TDABC in healthcare: The TDABC in Healthcare Consortium Consensus Statement
Authors: Etges Ana Paula Beck da Silva , Polanczyk Carisi Anne , Urman Richard D.
Published: August 2020

Background: This Consensus Statement introduces a standardized framework, in a checklist format, to support future development and report of TDABC studies in healthcare, and to encourage their reproducibility. Additionally, it establishes the first formal networking of TDABC researchers through the creation of the TDABC for Health Care Consortium.Methods: A consensus group of researchers reviewed the most relevant TDABC studies available in Medline and Scopus databases to identify the initial elements of the checklist. Using a Focus Group process, each element received a recommendation regarding where in the scientific article section it should be placed and whether the element was required or suggested. A questionnaire was circulated with expert researchers in the field to provide additional recommendations regarding the content of the checklist and the strength of recommendation for each included element. Results: The TDABC standardized framework includes 32 elements, provides recommendations where in the scientific article to include each element, and the strength of each recommendation. All 32 elements were validated, with 21 elements classified as mandatory and 11 as suggested but not mandatory. Conclusions: This is the first standardized framework to support the development and reporting of TDABC research in healthcare and to stablish a community of experts in TDABC methodology. We expect that it can contribute to scale strategies that would result in cost-savings outcomes and in value-oriented strategies that can be adopted in healthcare systems and institutions.
"A loving man has a very huge responsibility": A mixed methods study of Malawian men's knowledge and beliefs about cervical cancer
Authors: Lewis Samuel , Moucheraud Corrina , Schechinger Devon , Mphande Misheck , Banda Ben Allan , Sigauke Hitler , Kawale Paul , Dovel Kathryn , Hoffman Risa M.
Published: August 2020

Background: In Malawi, numerous barriers may prevent women from accessing cervical cancer screening services — including social factors such as male partner involvement. We conducted surveys that included open- and closed-ended questions with married Malawian men to evaluate their knowledge and beliefs about cervical cancer. Methods: HIV-positive adult (≥18 years) men (married or in a stable relationship) were recruited from an antiretroviral therapy clinic in Lilongwe, Malawi. Men were asked a series of survey questions to assess their knowledge about cervical cancer, experience with cervical cancer, their female partner’s screening history, and their beliefs about gender norms and household decision-making. Following the survey, participants responded to a set of open-ended interview questions about cervical cancer screening, and men’s role in prevention.Results: 120 men were enrolled with average age 44 years and 55% having completed secondary school or higher education. Despite only moderate knowledge about cervical cancer and screening (average assessment score of 62% correct), all men expressed support of cervical cancer screening, and most (86%) believed they should be involved in their female partner’s decision to be screened. Over half (61%) of men said their female partner had ever previously been screened for cervical cancer, and this was positively correlated with the male respondent having more progressive gender norms around sexual practices. Some men expressed concerns about the screening process, namely the propriety of vaginal exams when performed by male clinicians, and whether the procedure was painful.Conclusions: Male partners in Malawi want to be involved in decisions about cervical cancer screening, but have limited knowledge about screening, and hold rigid beliefs about gender norms that may affect their support for screening. Messaging campaigns addressing men’s concerns may be instrumental in improving women’s adoption of cervical cancer screening services in Malawi and similar settings.
Physicochemical, Mineralogy, and Thermo-Kinetic Characterisation of Newly Discovered Nigerian Coals under Pyrolysis and Combustion Conditions
Authors: Nyakuma Bemgba Bevan , Jauro Aliyu , Akinyemi Segun Ajayi , Faizal Hasan Mohd , Nasirudeen Mohammed Baba , Fuad Muhammad Ariff Hanaffi Mohd , Oladokun Olagoke
Published: August 2020

In this study, the physicochemical, microstructural, mineralogical, thermal, and kinetic properties of three (3) newly discovered coals from Akunza (AKZ), Ome (OME), and Shiga (SHG) in Nigeria were examined for potential energy recovery. Physicochemical analysis revealed high combustible but low levels of polluting elements. The higher heating values (HHV) ranged from 18.65 MJ/kg (AKZ) to 26.59 MJ/kg (SHG). Microstructure and mineralogical analyses revealed particles with a rough texture, surfaces, and glassy lustre, which could be ascribed to metals, quartz, and kaolinite minerals. The major elements (C, O, Si, and Al), along with minor elements (Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, S, and Ti) detected are associated with clays, salts, or the porphyrin constituents of coal. Thermal analysis showed mass loss (M L ) ranges from 30.51% – 87.57% and residual mass (R M ) from 12.44% – 69.49% under combustion (oxidative) and pyrolysis (non-oxidative) TGA conditions due to thermal degradation of organic matter, vitrinite, inertinite and liptinite macerals. Kinetic analysis revealed that the coal samples are highly reactive under the non-isothermal oxidative and non-oxidative conditions based on the Coats-Redfern Model. The activation energy ( E a ) ranged from 23.81 kJ/mol – 89.56 kJ/mol whereas the pre-exponential factor ( k o ) ranged from 6.77×10 -04 min -1 – 1.72×10 03 min -1 under pyrolysis and combustion conditions. In conclusion, the coals are practical feedstocks for either industrial applications or energy recovery.
Association between sexual violence and unintended pregnancy among adolescent girls and young women in South Africa
Authors: Ajayi Anthony Idowu , Ezegbe Henrietta Chinelo
Published: August 2020

Background Unintended pregnancy has dire consequences on the health and socioeconomic wellbeing of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) (aged 15-24 years). While most studies tend to focus on lack of access to contraceptive information and services, and poverty as the main contributing factor to early-unintended pregnancies, the influence of sexual violence has received limited attention. Understanding the link between sexual violence and unintended pregnancy is critical towards developing a multifaceted intervention to reduce unintended pregnancies among AGYW in South Africa, a country with high teenage pregnancy rates. Thus, we estimated the magnitude of unintended pregnancy among AGYW and also examined the effect of sexual violence on unintended pregnancy.MethodsOur study adopted a cross-sectional design, and data were obtained from AGYW in a South African university between June and November 2018. A final sample of 451 girls aged 17-24 years, selected using stratified sampling, were included in the analysis. We used adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression analysis to examine the effect of sexual violence on unintended pregnancy. ResultsThe analysis shows that 41.9% of all respondents had experienced an unintended pregnancy, and 25.9% of those unintended pregnancies ended in abortions. Unintended pregnancy was higher among survivors of sexual violence (54.4%) compared to those who never experienced sexual abuse (34.3%). In the multivariable analysis, sexual violence was consistently and robustly associated with increased odds of having an unintended pregnancy (AOR:1.70; 95% CI: 1.08-2.68).ConclusionOur study found a huge magnitude of unintended pregnancy among AGYW. Sexual violence is an important predictor of unintended pregnancy in this age cohort. Thus, addressing unintended pregnancies among AGYW in South Africa requires interventions that not only increase access to contraceptive information and services but also reduce sexual violence and cater for survivors.
Pulmonary epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma without AKT1, HRAS or PIK3CA mutations: A case report
Authors: Yanagawa Naoki , Sato Ayaka , Nishiya Masao , Suzuki Masamichi , Sugimoto Ryo , Osakabe Mitsumasa , Uesugi Noriyuki , Saito Hajime , Sugai Tamotsu
Published: August 2020

Background: Pulmonary epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma is a rare subtype of lung cancer. Because of its rarity, the molecular information on this carcinoma is insufficient. Case presentation: We report a case of pulmonary epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma without AKT1, HRAS or PIK3CA mutations in a 76-year-old woman. Computed tomography revealed a tumor located in the left lower lung. Thoracoscopic left lower lobectomy was performed. Histopathologically, the tumor consisted of duct-like structures and polygonal and spindle cell features. The duct-like structures were composed of two distinct cell layers. The inner layer consisted of cuboidal cells that were positive for pan-cytokeratin and negative for p63, whereas the outer layer consisted of polygonal and spindle cells that were positive for p63 and weakly positive for pan-cytokeratin. We evaluated mutations in AKT1, BRAF, CTNNB1, HRAS, KRAS and PIK3CA but did not detect any mutations. Conclusion: Pulmonary epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma is a rare subtype of lung cancer, with only 56 previous cases reported in the English literature. The genetic alterations in pulmonary epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma are still unknown. We examined the 6 genes mutation analysis, however no mutation was detected.
Multi-compartment chemical characterization and risk assessment of chemicals of emerging concern in freshwater systems of western Kenya
Authors: Kandie Faith Jebiwot , Krauss Martin , Massei Riccardo , Ganatra Akbar , Fillinger Ulrike , Becker Jeremias , Liess Matthias , Torto Baldwyn , Brack Werner
Published: August 2020

Background: Within the last decades, there has been increasing research on the occurrence of chemicals of emerging concern (CECs) in aquatic ecosystems due to their potential adverse effects on freshwater organisms and risk to human health. However, information on CECs in freshwater environments in sub-Saharan countries is very limited. Here, we investigated the occurrence of CECs in snails and sediments collected from 48 sites within the Lake Victoria South Basin, Kenya, which have been previously investigated for water contamination. Samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) with a target list of 429 compounds. Results: In total, 30 compounds have been detected in snails and 78 in sediment samples, compared to 79 previously identified compounds in water. By extending the monitoring of CECs to snails and sediments, we found 68 compounds that were not previously detected in water. These compounds include the anti-cancer drug anastrozole, detected for the first time in the Kenyan environment. Individual compound concentrations were detected up to 480 ng/g wet weight (N-ethyl-o-toluenesulfonamide) in snails and 110 ng/g organic carbon (pirimiphos-methyl) in sediments. Higher contaminant concentrations were found in agricultural sites than in areas not impacted by anthropogenic activities. Crustaceans were the organisms at greatest toxic risk from sediment contamination (toxic unit (TU) up to 0.99) with diazinon and pirimiphos-methyl driving this risk. Acute and chronic risks to algae were driven by diuron (TU up to 0.24), whereas fish were found to be at low to no acute risk (TU up to 0.007). Conclusions: The compound classes present at highest frequencies in all matrices were pesticides and biocides. This study shows substantial contamination of surface water in rural western Kenya. By filling data gaps on contamination of sediments and aquatic biota, our study reveals that CECs pose a substantial risk on environmental health in Kenya demanding for monitoring and mitigation.
A grounded theory exploration of language massive open online courses (LMOOCs): Understanding students’ viewpoints
Authors: Hsu Liwei
Published: August 2020

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) have been called the biggest innovation to happen in education for 200 years for their unique attribute of being open and free to any individual with Internet access; however, their high dropout rate has led many people to be concerned or dubious about MOOCs’ effectiveness and applicability. The applicability of MOOCs in English for specific purposes (ESP) courses (in this case, Hospitality English) needs more empirical evidence; the present study intends to help fill this gap and extend our current understanding of this issue. This study followed a grounded theory methodology to develop a theoretical model based on constant dialogue between collected data and the literature. The results suggest that most participants had positive perceptions of LMOOCs in general but that some of them doubted the applicability of LMOOCs. Most participants said they would continue to use LMOOCs in learning, depending on the attributes of specific courses. Based on the extracted data, a conceptual model for the applicability of LMOOCs is proposed.
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis-derived Phase Angle as a Determinant of Protein-energy Wasting and Frailty in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Saitoh Masakazu , Ogawa Masumi , Kondo Hisae , Suga Kiichi , Takahashi Tetsuya , Itoh Haruki , Tabata Yoichiro
Published: August 2020

Background

To evaluate the relationship between phase angle (PA) measured by bioimpedance electrical analysis and protein-energy wasting (PEW) or frailty, and its impact on 2-year mortality in patients with hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

This retrospective observational study included 116 adult HD patients (35% female, 64 ± 12 years of age) in a single dialysis center. Patients were classified according to the PA quartiles into four groups (quartile 1, lowest; quartile 4, highest). International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism (ISRNM) criteria and Japanese version of Cardiovascular Health Study (J-CHS) criteria were used to identify PEW and frailty.

Results

The lower PA group was associated with a greater risk of PEW (35% vs. 24% vs. 21% vs. 3%; p=0.032) , frailty (59% vs. 40% vs. 21% vs. 3%; p<0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the first quartile group (PA<3.7 ° ) was at a significantly greater risk of both PEW and frailty compared with the fourth quartile group (PA≥5.0 ° ) after adjusting for other confounding factors.

Conclusions

Lower PA was associated with a greater risk of PEW and frailty in HD patients.
Impaired effective functional connectivity of the sensorimotor network in interictal episodic migraineurs without aura
Authors: Wei Heng-Le , Chen Jing , Chen Yu-Chen , Yu Yu-Sheng , Guo Xi , Zhou Gang-Ping , Zhou Qing-Qing , He Zhen-Zhen , Yang Lian , Yin Xindao , Li Junrong , Zhang Hong
Published: August 2020

Background: Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (Rs-fMRI) has confirmed sensorimotor network (SMN) dysfunction in migraine without aura (MwoA). However, the underlying mechanisms of SMN effective functional connectivity in MwoA remain unclear. We aimed to explore the association between clinical characteristics and effective functional connectivity in SMN, in interictal patients who have MwoA. Methods : We used Rs-fMRI to acquire imaging data in forty episodic patients with MwoA in the interictal phase and thirty-four healthy controls (HCs). Independent component analysis was used to profile the distribution of SMN and calculate the different SMN activity between the two groups. Subsequently, Granger causality analysis was used to analyze the effective functional connectivity between the SMN and other brain regions. Results: Compared to the HCs, MwoA patients showed higher activity in the bilateral postcentral gyri (PoCG), but lower activity in the left midcingulate cortex (MCC). Moreover, MwoA patients showed decreased effective functional connectivity from the SMN to left middle temporal gyrus, right putamen, left insula and bilateral precuneus, but increased effective functional connectivity to the right paracentral lobule. There was also significant effective functional connectivity from the primary visual cortex, right cuneus and right putamen to the SMN. In the interictal period, there was positive correlation between the activity of the right PoCG and the frequency of headache. The disease duration was positively correlated with abnormal effective functional connectivity from the left PoCG to right precuneus. In addition, the headache impact scores were negatively correlated with abnormal effective functional connectivity from the left MCC to right paracentral lobule, as well as from the right precuneus to left PoCG. Conclusions: These differential, resting-state functional activities of the SMN in episodic MwoA may contribute to the understanding of migraine-related intra- and internetwork imbalances associated with nociceptive regulation and chronification.
Improving the Accuracy of Text Classification using Stemming Method, A Case of Informal Indonesian Conversation
Authors: Rianto Rianto , Mutiara Achmad Benny , Wibowo Eri Prasetyo , Santosa Paulus Insap
Published: August 2020

As social beings, humans always interact with one another using either verbal or non-verbal language. Language is an arbitrary sound-symbol system, which is used by members of a community to cooperate, interact, and identify themselves. Indonesian language is classified into two categories, namely formal and non-formal. The former meets the grammatical standard as prescribed by linguistic rules of the language, while the latter tends to deviate it. In daily communication, however, non-formal language is more intensively used because they are more practical and easier to understand. With this tendency, non-formal language causes problems in linguistic computation because most linguistic computations use formal standard languages that already have standardized rules. This research aims to develop a dynamic Indonesian closed corpus related to airline ticket reservation, namely "Incorbiz". The "Incorbiz" will be used as stemming tool for formal and non-formal Indonesian. Text processing, text normalization, and auto-update data were proposed in this research. This research also compared two stemming techniques i.e. "Sastrawi" and "Incorbiz" to process the 30-sample dataset. The algorithm used to process the classification is Support Vector Machine (SVM). The data used to develop the "Incorbiz" were taken from conversations between customer service staff and consumers in airline ticket reservations. The result showed that "Incorbiz" had higher accuracy than "Sastrawi" on 0.89 and 0.67, respectively.
Liver Resections for Metastasis: Surgical Outcomes of a Single Center Academic Institution
Authors: Abreu Phillipe , Ferreira Raphaella , Bussyguin Danilo Saavedra , Cás Eduardo Da , Venkatasamy Vighnesh Vetrivel , Tomasich Flávio Daniel Saavedra , Szutan Luiz Arnaldo
Published: August 2020

Background:Hepatic metastasis are frequent and liver resection may be an option for some cases, despite the high complexity of the procedure and the possibility of postoperative complications. Methods:This retrospective comparative descriptive study aims to evaluate a series of 86 consecutive liver resections (LRs) performed for the treatment of metastatic liver tumors, comparing the results between patients undergoing major and minor LR. All patients submitted to LR from October 2010 to July 2015 at the Erasto Gaertner Hospital in Curitiba-PR were included. Quantitative numerical variables were analyzed with the Student t-test. The nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test was used for numerical variables of non-normal distribution. Categorical variables were analyzed with the Chi-square test with Fisher's correction. The data were analyzed with the SPSS 23.0 and STATA 15 programs, being p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results:Eighty-sixLR were performed, 56 cases by colorectal metastasis. The major LR corresponded to 68 cases, with 13.2% of Clavien-Dindo III-V complications and 2.9% of reoperation rate. Eighteen minor LR were performed and one patient had a postoperative complication requiring reoperation. Conclusion: Preoperative elevation of transaminases and jaundice negatively influence surgical outcomes in patients undergoing LR. Tumors greater than 3 cm presented worse postoperative survival. Major LR did not significantly increase the surgical morbidity rate.Institutional Review Board registration:1.122.319/2015
Are preventive measures adequate? An evaluation of the implementation of COVID-19 prevention and control measures in nursing homes in China
Authors: Shi Meihong , Zhang Fengying , He Xinxin , Huang Siyuan , Zhang MingFeng , Hu Xiuying
Published: August 2020

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge for nursing homes in China. Nursing homes are particularly dangerous places regarding the spread of COVID-19 given that they house vulnerable, high-risk populations. As such, several useful guidelines for coping with COVID-19 in nursing homes have been provided. However, the actual implementation rates of such guidelines are unknown. This study aims to document the adherence of nursing homes to the Ministry of Civil Affairs guidelines for COVID-19 prevention and control in nursing homes.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 484 nursing homes in 136 cities of 28 provinces in China. A self-report questionnaire was created based on the Ministry of Civil Affairs guidelines for COVID-19 prevention and control in nursing homes (first edition). The questionnaire was sent to nursing home managers via the Wenjuanxing app online from February 7 to 29, 2020. A total of 461 responses were included in the analysis. ResultsThe implementation rates of COVID-19 prevention and control measures in nursing homes were moderate, with an average rate of 80.0%. The average implementation rates for hygienic behaviour management, access management, and environmental disinfection management were 75.3%, 78.7%, and 79.9%, respectively. Nursing homes that did not have hospital-nursing home cooperation, did not have medical staff, and had not established a quarantine unit (room) had low implementation rates (p < 0.01). The number of medical staff, education level of the manager, nursing home size, and establishment of quarantine room/unit were found to be strongly positively associated with the total implementation rate (p < 0.01).ConclusionOverall, the implementation of prevention and control measures by nursing homes are insufficient during the epidemic in China. Further education for staff and cooperation with hospitals are required to improve the implementation rate. It is urgent for nursing homes to improve the management system to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the emergency.
Clinical Manifestations and Risk Factors for Co-Infection in Children with Adenovirus Infections in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Lao Qun , Han Ning , Jia Yu-Zhu , Wu Yi-Dong , Zhao Shi-Yong , Pan Hai-Peng , Zhan Ming
Published: August 2020

Background: This study aimed to explore the clinical manifestations of adenovirus infections and the epidemiologic factors for subsequent co-infection in children from Hangzhou, China.Methods: In this retrospective study, the characteristics of children with adenovirus infections presenting at Hangzhou Children’s Hospital and Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital from January to December in 2019 were collected. The epidemiologic factors for co-infection were assessed by the multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: A total of 5,989 children presented with adenovirus infections, of which 559 children were hospitalized for adenovirus respiratory infections. The severity of adenovirus respiratory infection was divided as follows: mild (bronchiolitis, 73.6%), moderate (bronchopneumonia, 17.6%), or severe (pneumonia, 8.8%). Of the 559 children who were hospitalized, 267 presented with co-infection, while the remaining 292 only had adenovirus infections. Multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that a longer duration of hospitalization was associated with an increased risk of co-infection (Odds ratio [OR]: 1.048; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.011-1.087; P = 0.0107). However, increased procalcitonin was associated with a reduced risk of co-infection (OR: 0.677; 95% CI: 0.462-0.992; P = 0.0456). Conclusions: The study indicated that most children with adenovirus respiratory infections showed mild manifestations, and the risk of co-infection was significantly correlated with the duration of hospitalization and procalcitonin level.
Determinants of Adoption Decisions of Water Harvesting Structures Among Pastoral Areas of Kenya
Authors: Lutta Alphayo , Wasonga Oliver Vivian , Nyangito Moses , Sudan Falendra Kumar , Robinson Lance
Published: August 2020

BackgroundThe arid and semi-arid lands are affected inherently by unpredictable rainfall and frequent droughts, which are exacerbated by climate change. This has resulted in deterioration of land resources, leading to forage and water shortages that negatively impact on livestock productivity. To cope with these climatic hazards that affect agricultural production and food security in pastoral areas, on farm adaptation strategies such as water harvesting initiatives are being supported by development agencies and governments. Some of these strategies have not been able to produce the desired levels of productivity and thus have failed to improve the welfare of the pastoral communities or prevent rangelands from deteriorating due to low adoption rates at household level.ResultsThis study determined social, economic and institutional factors influencing the adoption of water harvesting systems at household level in pastoral areas of Tana River County of Kenya. The data was collected through household survey, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The results show that access to extension services and training, monthly income level, main source of livelihood, land tenure system, membership in community groups and availability of active farm labor significantly influenced the adoption of water harvesting structures which need a combination of technical efficiency with low cost and acceptability to pastoral communities.ConclusionPastoralists therefore need to be mobilized and trained on how to construct and use water harvesting structures and sensitized on the potential socioeconomic benefits of adopting them.
Soil bacterial community and functions directly respond to grazing exclusion in a Leymus chinensis steppe of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Deng Han-Wen , Bai Xin-Fu , Zhu Ping , Lu Yu-Meng , Ji Lei , Sun Yan-Lin , Hong Soon-Kwan
Published: August 2020

Background

Grazing exclusion is a common grassland management strategy for restoring degraded grasslands. Its effectiveness on optimizing plant species community, increasing vegetation diversity and biomass, improving soil fertility, has been widely documented in literatures. However, little is known on the responses of the absolute abundance and the ecological functions of soil bacterial community to long-term grazing exclusion.
Result

In this study, the absolute abundance, diversity, and ecological functions of soil bacterial community were determined by the high-throughput absolute quantitative sequencing technology on a long-term grazing exclusion (40 years, GE) area and three free grazing areas (FGs) within a Leymus chinensis steppe of Inner Mongolia, China, and analyzed the driving forces leading to the variations in soil bacterial community and functions. Our results showed that there was significantly higher soil bacterial abundance in the GE than the FGs along with corresponding variations in vegetation and soil properties. With the decrease of vegetation aboveground biomass, the absolute abundance of soil bacterial community also decreased. Among the phyla of the soil bacterial communities, the relative abundances of Chloroflexi and Firmicutes phyla were especially lower, and that of Verrucomicrobia phylum was higher in the GE than the FGs; the absolute abundances of Euryarchaeota and Microgenomates phyla were especially higher in the GE than the FGs.
Conclusions

This study suggested that long-term grazing exclusion significantly increased the absolute abundance, changed soil bacterial composition, and especially enhanced bacterial motility and chemotaxis. In particular, soil organic matter was the important agent to influence and connect vegetation and soil. This work will enrich our understanding of the responses of absolute abundance, diversity, and function of the soil bacterial community to long-term grazing exclusion, and help the evaluation of grassland degradation degree and restoration strategy effectiveness.