bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of Non-Pharmacological Methods and the Perceived Barriers for Adult Postoperative Pain Management by the Nurses at Selected National Hospitals in Asmara, Eritrea
Authors: Kidanemariam Betiel Yihdego , Elsholz Traudl , Simel Laban L. , Tesfamariam Eyasu H. , Andemeskel Yonatan Mehari
Published: September 2020

Background: Pharmacological methods are widely used for postoperative pain management however, poorly controlled pain continues to pose a significant challenge. Non pharmacological methods could contribute to the unresolved postoperative pain management in assisting nurses’ routine care and minimizing the need formedication. The aim of the study was to assess nurses’ utilization of non-pharmacological methods in postoperative pain and the perceived barriers for their implementation at the National Hospitals.Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among 154 nurses working at the National Referral Hospitals and Sembel Private Hospital. A standardized five-point Likert-scale questionnaire which assesses nurses' utilization ofselected non-pharmacological methods and the perceived barriers for the implementation was used to collect data. Descriptive statistics for the demographic data, independent samples t-test, one way ANOVA and factorial ANOVAwere used to analyze the data. Statistical significance level was set at P < 0.05. Results: The study found out that emotional support (45.5%), helping with daily activities (67.5%) and creating a comfortable environment (61%) were the most frequently used methods, while cognitive-behavioral (5.9%) and physical methods (5.8%) had less frequency. The results also showed , such as the nurses' age (p=0.013), education (p=0.012), work experience (p=0.001) and place of work (p=0.001), were significantly related to the use of non-pharmacological methods at bivariate level. However, hospitals had a statistical significance of (p<0.001) and were the only determinants of the non-pharmacological methods at multivariable level. On the perceived barriers;heavy work load (87.7%), shortage of time (84.4%), limited resources (82.5%), deficit in the guidelines for pain management (77.3%), patient’s uncooperative behavior (57.1%), language difference (64.4%),nurse’s lack of knowledge (50%) and experience (40.3%) wereidentified.Conclusion: Non-pharmacological methods on postoperative patients in the studied hospitals varied greatly due to experience and knowledge. The study recommends exposure and training for all health care providers at all level in order to appreciate the benefits of non-pharmacological methods applicable to postoperative pain management among patients. This could be achieved through on job training, seminars, scientific conferences and other brainstorming forums.
Compliance with COVID-19-Preventive Behaviours among Employees Returning to Work in the Post-Epidemic Period
Authors: Liu Jie , Tong Yan , Li Shaoqiong , Tian Zhiqiang , Lu He , Zheng Jianzhong
Published: September 2020

Background
The emergence of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as a global pandemic has had an impact on the lifestyle of people worldwide. Government measures aimed at containing the spread of the virus have been successful in many places, leading to a relaxation of these measures. To prevent the return of an outbreak in these places, people returning to the workforce are expected to follow proper health behaviours. Therefore, this study investigated COVID-19 related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours of employees who are returning to work during the COVID-19 prevention and control period as well as their compliance with recommended COVID-19 preventive behaviours.
Methods
A cross-sectional study design was used. Data were gathered using an online questionnaire survey from March to May 2020 among 1,300 returning employees in China. Questionnaire items concerned participants’ COVID-19-related knowledge, compliance with recommended preventive behaviours, and levels of depression and anxiety. Univariate and multi-factor methods were used to analyse the data and identify factors influencing behaviour compliance.
Results
Six hundred and ninety-eight (53.7%) participants showed high compliance, and 602 (46.3%) showed low compliance. High education level (odds ratio [OR] = 5.598, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.846–16.976), white-collar occupation (OR = 1.992, 95% CI: 1.331–2.983), high knowledge of COVID-19 (OR = 1.704, 95% CI: 1.303–2.229), no anxiety (OR = 0.646, 95% CI: 0.463–0.901), and quarantining (OR = 1.320, 95% CI: 1.039–1.676) predicted better compliance with preventive behaviours (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Factors such as educational background, occupation, isolation, COVID-19 knowledge level, and psychological anxiety have an impact on the health behaviour of employees returning to work. For employees returning to work during the post-COVID-19-epidemic period, compliance with recommended health behaviours requires improvement. The provision of health education and psychological counselling and the continuance of a strict isolation policy could enhance such compliance.
Application of the PET ligand [11C]ORM-13070 to examine receptor occupancy by the α2C-adrenoceptor antagonist ORM-12741: translational validation of target engagement in rat and human brain 
Authors: Shahid Mohammed , Rinne Juha O. , Scheinin Mika , Virta Jere , Marjamäki Päivi , Solin Olof , Arponen Eveliina , Sallinen Jukka , Kuokkanen Katja , Rouru Juha
Published: September 2020

Background: Availability of the α2C -adrenoceptor (α2C-AR) positron emission tomography (PET) tracer, [11C]ORM-13070, and the α2C-AR antagonist ORM-12741 allows probing of the roles of this G-protein coupled receptor subtype in brain function, both in healthy humans and in patients with various brain disorders. This translational study employed [11C]ORM-13070 autoradiography and PET to determine α2C-AR occupancy by ORM-12741 in rat and human brain, respectively. Results: ORM-12741 has high affinity (Ki: 0.08 nM) and potent antagonist activity (Kb: 0.04 nM) as well as selectivity (Ki estimates for the human α2A-AR and α2B-AR were 8.3 nM and 0.8 nM, respectively) for the human α2C-AR subtype. [11C]ORM-13070 had highest uptake in the basal ganglia of rat and human brain. Pretreatment with ORM-12741 inhibited [11C]ORM-13070 binding in rat striatum in a time- and dose-dependent manner at 10 and 50 µg/kg (s.c.) with an EC50 estimate of 1.42 ng/mL in rat plasma, corresponding to protein-free drug concentration of 0.23 nM. In the living human brain, time- and dose-related α2C-AR occupancy was detected with EC50 estimates of 24 ng/mL and 31 ng/mL for the caudate nucleus and putamen, respectively, corresponding to protein-free concentrations in plasma of 0.07 nM and 0.1 nM. Modelling-based maximum α2C-AR occupancy estimates were 63 % and 52 % in the caudate nucleus and the putamen, respectively. Conclusions: ORM-12741 is a selective α2C-AR antagonist which penetrates the rat and human brain to occupy α2C-ARs in a manner consistent with its receptor pharmacology. Trial registration number and date of registration: ClinicalTrial.cov NCT00829907. Registered 11 December 2008. https://clinicaltrials.gov/.
Influential Factors on Quality of Life in Married Iranian Women During The Covid-19 Pandemic in 2020: A Path Analysis
Authors: Zahra Daneshfar , Sadatmahalleh Shahideh Jahanian , Samaneh Youseflu , Mahnaz Bahri Khomami , Anoshiravan Kazemnejad
Published: September 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between quality of life (QoL) with anxiety, depression, corona disease anxiety, sexual function (SF), and marital satisfaction (MS) in married women during the Covid-19 pandemic.Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study involving n= 296 married women. We used the Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), Marital Satisfaction Scale (MSS), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and coronary disease anxiety questionnaire, as determinants of QoL for data collection. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and path analysis.Results: There was a relationship between the components of QoL with SF, anxiety, depression, MS, general health and contamination obsessions. The results of path analysis also showed that that SF, MS, anxiety, general health and corona-related anxiety have a direct effect on women’s QoL. General health has a more direct effect on QoL.Conclusion: The results of this study could help to planning to improve the QoL of women during the corona virus epidemic.
A novel prognostic model predicts overall survival in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma based on clinical features and blood biomarkers
Authors: Lai Changchun , Zhang Chunning , Lv Hualiang , Huang Hanqing , Ke Xia , Zhou Chuchan , Chen Hao , Chen Shulin , Zhou Lei
Published: September 2020

Background: This study aims to develop and validate a novel prognostic model to estimate overall survival (OS) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients based on clinical features and blood biomarkers. We assessed the model’s incremental value to the TNM staging system, clinical treatment, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA copy number for individual OS estimation. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 519 consecutive patients with NPC. A prognostic model was generated using the Lasso regression model in the training cohort (n= 346). Then we compared the predictive accuracy of the novel prognostic model with TNM staging, clinical treatment, and EBV DNA copy number using concordance index (C-index), time-dependent ROC (tdROC), and decision curve analysis (DCA). Subsequently, we built a nomogram for OS incorporating the prognostic model, TNM staging, and clinical treatment. Finally, we stratified patients into high-risk and low-risk groups according to the model risk score, and the survival time of these two groups was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier survival plots. All results were validated in the independent validation cohort (n = 173). Results: Using the Lasso regression, we established a prognostic model consisting of 13 variables with respect to patient prognosis. The C-index, tdROC and DCA all showed that the prognostic model had good predictive accuracy and discriminatory power in the training cohort than did TNM staging, clinical treatment, and EBV DNA copy number. Nomogram consisting of the prognostic model, TNM staging, clinical treatment, and EBV DNA copy number showed some superior net benefit. Based on the model risk score, we split the patients into two subgroups: low-risk (risk score ≤ -1.423) and high-risk (risk score > -1.423). There were significant differences in OS between the two subgroups of patients. Similar results were observed in the validation cohort.Conclusions: The proposed novel prognostic model based on clinical features and serological markers represents a promising tool for estimating OS in NPC patients.
COVID-19-Associated Encephalitis: Systematic Review of Case ReportsFindings on Cytokine-Immune-Mediated Inflammation as an Underlying Mechanism
Authors: Siahaan Yusak M.T. , Puspitasari Vivien , Pangestu Aristo Rinaldi
Published: October 2020

Background : Although severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) primarily attacks the respiratory system resulting to a disease called coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), several studies also reported the involvement of the central nervous system along the course of the disease, one of which manifest as encephalitis. This study aims to determine the clinical profile, laboratory, and imaging results of encephalitis associated with COVID-19.Methods : Three databases namely, PubMed / Medline, Embase, and Scopus were systematically used in the search for this literature, in order to gather case reports and case series related to COVID-19-associated encephalitis published from January 1, 2019 to July 20, 2020.Result: There were 24 studies with 33 cases included in this review. The most reported neurological symptoms were disorientation / confusion (72.72%), decreased consciousness (54.54%), and seizures (27.27%). The laboratory examination showed an increase in the levels of C-reactive protein (48.48%), lactate dehydrogenase (30.3%), and lymphophenia (27.27%). The brain imaging examination did not show any pathological findings in half of the cases (51.51%). EEG (electroencephalography) showed a generalized decrease in 45.45% of the cases. The CSF analysis showed an increase in the levels of protein (42.42%) and lymphocytosis (24.24%). Positive cerebrospinal fluid polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was only found in 3 cases, while the most widely used pharmacological agent was hyroxychloroquine (48.48%). Intravenous steroids were given in 8 cases, while immunotherapy such as plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin were given in 10 cases. Fifteen patients were reported to be discharged from the hospital in stable conditions, while four mortality cases were recorded. Conclusion: The clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings in this review supported the hypothesis that the process of cytokine-immune mediated inflammation was the cause of cerebral damage in COVID-19-associated encephalitis, rather than direct invasion. However, due to the limited availabile facilities in this study, further research and examination are needed to confirm the hypothesis
“Caregiving is like on the job training but nobody has the manual”: Canadian caregivers’ perceptions of their roles within the healthcare system
Authors: Law Susan , Ormel Ilja , Babinski Stephanie , Kuluski Kerry , Quesnel-Vallée Amélie
Published: September 2020

Background
Stepping into the role of an unpaid caregiver to offer help for a family member or friend is often considered a natural expectation of partners or family members. In Canada, the contributions of caregivers are substantial in healthcare provision but this comes at a considerable cost to the caregivers in both health and economic terms.
Methods
In this study, we conducted a secondary analysis of a collection of qualitative interviews with 39 caregivers of people with chronic physical illness to assess how they described their particular roles in caring for a loved one. We used a model of caregiving roles, originally proposed by Twigg in 1989, as a guide for our analysis, which specified three predominant roles for caregivers – as a resource, as a co-worker, and as a co-client.
Results
The caregivers in this collection spoke about their roles in ways that aligned well with these roles, but they also described tasks and activities that fit best with a fourth role of ‘care-coordinator’, which required that they assume an oversight role in coordinating care across institutions, care providers and often advocate for care in line with their expectations. For each of these types of roles, we have highlighted the limitations and challenges they described in their interviews.
Conclusions
We provide some examples of system-level policy and programs from different jurisdictions developed in recognition of the need to sustain caregivers in their role and respond to such limitations. We argue that a deeper understanding of the different roles that caregivers assume, as well as their challenges, can contribute to the design and implementation of policies and services that would support their contributions and choices as integral members of the care team.
Changes in Psychological Anxiety and Physiological Stress Hormones in Korea National Shooters
Authors: Park Sang-Hyuk , Lim Seung-Taek , Lee Eunjae
Published: October 2020

Background: Psychological and physiological management is closely related to the athlete's performance, especially the shooting competition. Thus, we aimed to investigate the changes of psychological anxiety and physiological stress hormones immediately before the shooting competition in Korea National shooters. Methods: Seventy-two Korea National Shooting athletes (Rifle = 62, Pistol = 8, Shotgun = 2) were recruited for the present study. The physiological stress hormones state was assessed based on saliva cortisol level, salivary immunoglobulin A level. The psychological stress state was assessed based on beck anxiety inventory questionnaire. Results: Significant higher cortisol concentration (p<.05) and cortisol secretion rate (p<.05) were in severe anxiety group. No significant SIgA concentration and SIgA secretion rate in among the groups. A positive correlation was found between BAI score and cortisol concentration (p<.05). Conclusions: This study indicates that changes of psychological anxiety and physiological stress hormones immediately before the shooting competition in Korea National shooters. Therefore, these finding provide preliminary evidence indicating that the psychological anxiety affective physiological stress, therefore negative effect on athletes' performance. Thus, research is needed to build a strategy to reduce physiological stress.
Clinical Features and Outcomes of Patients with Elizabethkingia Meningoseptica Infection: An Emerging Pathogen
Authors: Umair Abdullah , Nasir Nosheen
Published: October 2020

Background:Elizabethkingia meningoseptica, formerly known as Chryseobacterium meningosepticum, is a non-motile, non-fastidious, catalase and oxidase-positive, aerobic, glucose-non-fermentative Gram-negative bacillus first defined by Elizabeth O. King in 1959. It has recently emerged as an opportunistic pathogen infecting people in the the extremes of age and the immunocompromised, especially in nosocomial settings. There has been an increased interest in this pathogen due to its rising occurrence around the world, its ubiquity in nature, and inherent capacity for antimicrobial resistance.Methods: We describe a retrospective case series at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan on patients admitted from January 2013 to December 2018 with Elizabethkingia meningoseptica infections. All patients identified to have any clinical culture specimen positive for Elizabethkingia meningoseptica were included. Data was collected on a structured proforma from the Hospital Information Management Systems (HIMS).Results:Sixteen patients with E. meningoseptica were identified. The mean Charlson’s co-morbidity index was 3.25. Nine patients had bacteremia with E. meningosepticum. Three of the isolates were extensively drug resistant with sensitivity only to minocycline. Nine out of 16 patients required intubation and mechanical ventilation. The median length of hospital stay was 13 days and four out of 16 patients died during hospital stay,Conclusion: This is the first case series from Pakistan reporting Elizabethkingia meningoseptica infections.
Postpartum Sexual Quality of Life: Scale Development and Psychometric Properties Assessment in Iran
Authors: Rahmani Azam , Grylka-Baeschlin Susanne , Fallahi Arezoo , Abboud Sarah , Gheshlagh Reza Ghanei , Allahqoli Leila , Alkatout Ibrahim
Published: September 2020

Background: To develop and assess the psychometric properties of the Postpartum Sexual Quality of Life Scale (PSQLS) in Iran.Methods: We employed a mixed-method approach. In the qualitative phase (17 interviews and two focus groups), we generated items for the scale. In the quantitative phase (n = 282), we assessed the psychometric properties of the pre-final version.Results: The final version contained 22 items. Exploratory factor analysis indicated a 5-factor solution that jointly accounted for 59.6 % of the variance. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.87.Conclusion: The PSQLS showed good validity and reliability and could be used to evaluate women’s postpartum sexual life.
SARS-CoV-2 gene content and COVID-19 mutation impact by comparing 44 Sarbecovirus genomes
Authors: Jungreis Irwin , Sealfon Rachel , Kellis Manolis
Published: October 2020

Despite its overwhelming clinical importance, the SARS-CoV-2 gene set remains unresolved, hindering dissection of COVID-19 biology. Here, we use comparative genomics to provide a high-confidence protein-coding gene set, characterize protein-level and nucleotide-level evolutionary constraint, and prioritize functional mutations from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We select 44 complete Sarbecovirus genomes at evolutionary distances ideally-suited for protein-coding and non-coding element identification, create whole-genome alignments, and quantify protein-coding evolutionary signatures and overlapping constraint. We find strong protein-coding signatures for all named genes and for 3a, 6, 7a, 7b, 8, 9b, and also ORF3c, a novel alternate-frame gene. By contrast, ORF10, and overlapping-ORFs 9c, 3b, and 3d lack protein-coding signatures or convincing experimental evidence and are not protein-coding. Furthermore, we show no other protein-coding genes remain to be discovered. Cross-strain and within-strain evolutionary pressures largely agree at the gene, amino-acid, and nucleotide levels, with some notable exceptions, including fewer-than-expected mutations in nsp3 and Spike subunit S1, and more-than-expected mutations in Nucleocapsid. The latter also shows a cluster of amino-acid-changing variants in otherwise-conserved residues in a predicted B-cell epitope, which may indicate positive selection for immune avoidance. Several Spike-protein mutations, including D614G, which has been associated with increased transmission, disrupt otherwise-perfectly-conserved amino acids, and could be novel adaptations to human hosts. The resulting high-confidence gene set and evolutionary-history annotations provide valuable resources and insights on COVID-19 biology, mutations, and evolution.
Immunogenicity and Safety of a Live Herpes Zoster Vaccine in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients
Authors: Chun June Young , Kim Kichun , Lee Min Kyeong , Kang Chang Kyung , Koh Youngil , Shin Dong-Yeop , Hong Junshik , Choe Pyoeng Gyun , Kim Nam Joong , Yoon Sung-Soo , Park Wan Beom , Kim Inho , Oh Myoung-don
Published: September 2020

BackgroundHerpes zoster (HZ) infection of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients is of clinical concern. Vaccination could help restore immunity to varicella zoster virus (VZV); however, the immunogenicity and safety of live HZ vaccines in patients with hematologic malignancy is unclear. The aim of this study was to elucidate temporal immunogenicity of the HZ vaccine after HSCT and determine the safety and optimal timing of vaccination.MethodsLive HZ vaccine was administered to patients 2–5 years or >5 years post-HSCT. Control groups comprised healthy volunteers and patients with a hematologic malignancy who received cytotoxic chemotherapy. Humoral and cellular immunogenicity were measured using a glycoprotein enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (gpELISA) and an interferon-γ (IFN-γ) enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay. Vaccine-related adverse events were also monitored.ResultsFifty-six patients with hematologic malignancy and 30 healthy volunteers were enrolled. The geometric mean fold rise (GMFR) in humoral immune responses of the 2–5 year and >5 year HSCT groups, and the healthy volunteer group, were comparable and significantly higher than that of the chemotherapy group (3.15, 95% CI [1.96-5.07] vs 5.05, 95% CI [2.50-10.20] vs 2.97, 95% CI [2.30-3.83] vs 1.42, 95% CI [1.08-1.86]). The GMFR of cellular immune responses was highest in the HSCT 2–5 year group and lowest in the chemotherapy group. No subject suffered clinically significant adverse events or reactivation of VZV within the follow-up period. ConclusionOur findings demonstrate that a live HZ vaccine is immunogenic and safe when administered 2 years post-HSCT.
Qualitative and Quantitative Comparison of Cell-Free DNA and Cell-Free Fetal DNA Isolation by Four (Semi-)Automated Extraction Methods: Impact in Two Clinical Applications: Chimerism Quantification and Noninvasive Prenatal Diagnosis
Authors: Pascal Pedini , GRAIET Hajer , LAGET Laurine , FILOSA Lugdivine , CHATRON Jade , CHEROUAT Nicem , CHIARONI Jacques , HUBERT Lucas , FRASSATI Coralie , PICARD Christophe
Published: September 2020

Background: Non-invasive molecular analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) became a sensitive biomarker for monitoring organ transplantation or for detection of fetal DNA (cffDNA) in noninvasive prenatal test. In this study, we compared the efficiencies of four (semi)-automated cfDNA isolation instruments using their respective isolation kit: MagNA Pure 24 (Roche®), IDEAL (IDSolution®), LABTurbo 24 (Taigen®) and Chemagic 360 (Perkin Elmer®). The cfDNA was isolated from 5 plasma samples and the Rhesus D (RhD)-cffDNA from 5 maternal plasmas. The cfDNA were quantified by digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), BIABooster system and QUBIT fluorometer. The cfDNA fragment size profiles were assessed by BIABooster system. Chimerism were quantified by home-made ddPCR and Devyser NGS kit. RhD-cffDNA in maternal plasma were detected between weeks 14-24 of amenorrhea using free DNA Fetal RHD Kit® (Biorad®). Results:Statistical tests have shown differencies in DNA yield depending on the isolation procedure and quantification method used. Magna Pure isolates smaller cfDNA fragment size than other extraction methods (90% ± 9% vs 74% ± 8%; p=0.009). Chimerism was only reliable from LABTurbo 24 extractions using the NGS but not with ddPCR whatever extraction methods. RhD-cffDNA were detected by all isolation methods, although IDEAL and LABTurbo 24 systems seemed more efficient. Conclusions: 4 (semi-)automated isolation methods have been compared for their extraction efficiency of cfDNA as well as for their fragment size, in a context of chimerism quantification and RHD cffDNA detection. Statistical testing showed a dependency of cfDNA yield on isolation procedure and quantification method used. In total, this study suggests that the choice of pre-analytical isolation systems needs to be carefully validated in routine clinical practice.
Pulmonary Midkine Inhibition Ameliorates Sepsis Induced Lung Injury via ACE/Ang II Pathway
Authors: Xu Jingyuan , Chang Wei , Sun Qin , Peng Fei , Yang Yi
Published: September 2020

BackgroundMidkine is a multi-functional molecule participating in a various key pathological process. We aimed to evaluate the change of midkine in sepsis and its association with pulmonary function, as well as the mechanism by which midkine induced lung injury in sepsis. MethodsThe peripheral blood sample of septic patients on admission was obtained and measured for midkine, angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin II. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) mouse model was used, and adeno-associated virus (AAV) was stilled trans-trachea for regional targeting midkine expression. The lung injury was evaluated, comparing the severity of lung injury. Furthermore, we studied the in vitro mechanism of midkine activates ACE system by using inhibitors targeting candidate receptors of midkine, and its effects on the vascular endothelial cells.ResultsPlasma midkine was significantly elevated in sepsis, and was closely associated with ACE system. Both circulating and lung midkine was increased in CLP mouse, and was related to severe lung injury. Regional interfering midkine expression in lung tissue by AAV could alleviate acute lung injury in CLP model. In vitro study elucidated that Notch 2 participated in the activation of ACE system and angiotensin II release, induced by midkine and triggered vascular endothelial injury by angiotensin II induced ROS production.ConclusionsMidkine participated in the process of sepsis induced lung injury, which was due to the activation of ACE system and angiotensin II release, triggering ROS production.Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02605681. Registered 12 November 2015.
The New Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 Diagnostic Tool Clarifies the Taxonomic Position and Geographic Distribution of the North American Malaria Vector Anopheles Punctipennis
Authors: Hodge James M. , Yurchenko Andrey A. , Karagodin Dmitriy A. , Masri Reem A. , Smith Ryan C. , Gordeev Mikhail I. , Sharakhova Maria V
Published: September 2020

Background: The malaria mosquito Anopheles punctipennis Say, a widely distributed species in North America, is capable of transmitting human malaria and is actively involved in the transmission of the ungulate malaria parasite Plasmodium odocoilei. However, molecular diagnostic tools based on Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 (ITS2) of ribosomal DNA are lacking for An. punctipennis. An. punctipennis is a former member of the Anopheles maculipennis complex but its systematic position remains unclear. Results: In this study, we collected and sequenced ITS2 from 276 An. punctipennis specimens collected from the eastern and midwestern United States. Our analysis demonstrated a consistent sequence length and showed no indications of intragenomic variation among the samples based on ITS2, suggesting that An. punctipennis represents a single species in the studied geographic locations. In addition to the ITS2 sequence-based molecular tool, we developed a simple and robust Restriction Length Polymorphism approach for species identification. An. punctipennis was found in urban, rural, and forest settings, suggesting its potential broad role in pathogen transmission. Phylogeny based on ITS2 sequence comparison demonstrated the close relationship of this species with other members of the Maculipennis group. Conclusions: This study developed molecular tools based on ITS2 sequences for the malaria vector An. punctipennis and clarified the phylogenetic position of the species within the Maculipennis group.
Adipose-derived stem cells combined with platelet-rich plasma enhance wound healing in a rat model of full-thickness skin defects
Authors: Ni Xuejun , Shan Xiuying , Xu Lili , Yu Wenjun , Zhang Mingliang , Lei Chen , Xu Nating , Lin Junyu , Wang Biao
Published: September 2020

Background: Wound healing is impaired in patients with diabetes due to the multifactorial etiology of the disease, which limits the therapeutic efficacy of various approaches. This study hypothesizes that the combination of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) might achieve optimally efficient diabetic wound healing. Methods: ADSCs were isolated from the adipose tissues of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. PRP was prepared by using a two-step centrifugation technique. A diabetic wound model was established on the backs of SD rats to evaluate the effect of ADSCs incorporated into PRP. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were performed to observe the changes in neovascularization. The proliferation of endothelial cells was assessed by the MTS assay. Results: ADSCs incorporated into PRP induced a higher wound closure rate than ADSCs, PRP and negative control. The expression levels of VEGF and SDF-1 in the ADSC-PRP group were higher than those in the other groups. Moreover, the proliferation of endothelial cells was strongly stimulated by treatment with the combination of ADSC-conditioned medium (ADSC-CM) and PRP. Conclusions: PRP enhanced diabetic wound healing induced by ADSCs, and its promoting effect involved neovascularization. Keywords: Adipose-derived stem cell, Platelet-rich plasma, Diabetic wound healing, Neovascularization.
Cardinium symbiosis as a potential confounder of mtDNA based phylogeographic inference in Culicoides imicola (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), a vector of veterinary viruses
Authors: Pilgrim Jack , Siozios Stefanos , Baylis Matthew , Venter Gert , Garros Claire , Hurst Gregory D. D.
Published: September 2020

Background: Culicoides imicola (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) is an important Afrotropical and Palearctic vector of disease, transmitting viruses of animal health and economic significance. The apparent incursions of C. imicola into mainland Europe via wind-movement events has made it important to trace this species to better predict new areas of arbovirus outbreaks. A widely used method for tracking dispersal patterns of C. imicola employs a phylogeographic approach anchored on the mtDNA marker COI (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I). However, a problem with this approach is that maternally-inherited symbiotic bacteria can alter the frequency of COI mitochondrial haplotypes (mitotypes), masking the true patterns of movement and gene flow.Methods: In this study, the mtDNA structure of C. imicola in relation to Cardinium infection status was investigated through haplotype network analysis. COI Sanger sequences from infected and uninfected individuals were first compared, before extending the haplotype network to include mitotypes from a geographic range where Cardinium infection has previously been investigated.Results: The mitotype network of a South African population, containing both Cardinium-infected and uninfected individuals, demonstrated the presence of two broad mitotype groups. All Cardinium-infected specimens fell into one group (Fisher’s exact test, P<0.001) demonstrating a linkage disequilibrium between symbiont and mitochondria. Furthermore, by extending this haplotype network to include other C. imicola populations from the Mediterranean basin, we revealed mitotype variation between the Eastern and Western Mediterranean basins (EMB and WMB) mirrored Cardinium-infection heterogeneity. Conclusions: These observations suggest that the linkage disequilibrium of Cardinium and mitochondria reflects symbiont gene flow within the Mediterranean basin but may not assist in elucidating host gene flow. Subsequently, we urge caution on the single usage of the COI marker to determine population structure and movement in C. imicola, and instead suggest the complementary utilisation of additional molecular markers.
Modern Treatment Outcomes for Early T-Stage Oropharyngeal Cancer Treated With Intensity-modulated Radiation Therapy at a Tertiary Care Institution
Authors: Gravio Eric J. Di , Lang Pencilla , Kim Hugh Andrew Jinwook , Chinnery Tricia , Mundi Neil , MacNeil S. Danielle , Mendez Adrian , Yoo John , Fung Kevin , Mymryk Joe S. , Barrett John W. , Read Nancy , Venkatesan Varagur , Kuruvilla Sara , Mendez Lucas C. , Winquist Eric , MRT Sylvia Mitchell , Mattonen Sarah A. , Nichols Anthony C. , Palma David
Published: September 2020

BackgroundTransoral surgery (TOS), particularly transoral robotic surgery (TORS) has become the preferred modality in the United States for the treatment of early stage oropharyngeal cancer, largely due to assumptions of fewer toxicities and improved quality of life compared to primary radiotherapy (RT). However, these assumptions are based on retrospective analysis, a subset of which utilize primary RT groups not limited to T1-2 stage tumors for which transoral robotic surgery is FDA approved. Thus, there is potential for underestimating survival and overestimating toxicity, including treatment related mortality, in primary RT.MethodsConsecutive cases of early T stage (T1-T2) oropharyngeal cancer presenting to the London Health Sciences Centre between 2014-2018 treated with RT or chemoradiation (CRT) were reviewed. Patient demographics, treatment details, survival outcomes and toxicity were collected. Toxicities were retrospectively graded using the CTCAE criteria.ResultsA total of 198 patients were identified, of which 82% were male and 73% were HPV-positive. Sixty-eight percent of patients experienced a grade 2 toxicity, 48% a grade 3 and 4% a grade 4. The most frequent toxicities were dysphagia, neutropenia and ototoxicity. The rates of gastrostomy tube dependence at 1 and 2 years were 2.5% and 1% respectively. There were no grade 5 (fatal) toxicities. HPV-positive patients experienced improved 5-year overall survival (86% vs 64%, p=0.0026). ConclusionsPrimary RT or CRT provides outstanding survival for early T-stage HPV-positive disease, with low rates of severe toxicity and feeding tube dependence. This study provides a reference for comparison for patients treated with primary transoral surgery.
Association Between Previous Statin Use and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Nested Case-control Study Using a National Health Screening Cohort
Authors: Kim Ji Hee , Lee Heui Seung , Wee Jee Hye , Min Chan Yang , Yoo Dae Myoung , Choi Hyo Geun
Published: October 2020

BackgroundA number of studies on the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in patients taking statins have been reported; however, the results are inconsistent. This study aimed to investigate the association between previous statin use and the risk of AD development in Korean residents.MethodsWe assessed the Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort, which includes individuals aged older than 40 years from 2002 to 2015. A total of 17,172 AD patients were matched by age, sex, income, and region of residence with 68,688 control participants at a ratio of 1:4. We used a multiple conditional logistic regression model to analyze the association between the number of days of statin use and AD occurrence. Further analyses were performed to identify whether this association was maintained for different ages, sexes, socioeconomic statuses, and covariates.ResultsThe adjusted odds ratio (OR), which was adjusted for potential confounders, for the days of statin use per year in the AD group compared to the control group was 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.92-0.98, P = 0.003). The number of days of statin use in the AD group was significantly smaller than that in control group among women older than 75 years and in the subgroups of nonsmokers and individuals with normal weight, alcohol consumption less than once a week, total cholesterol level below 200, systolic blood pressure below 140 and diastolic blood pressure below 90, and fasting blood glucose below 100.ConclusionsOur results suggested that statin use may prevent the occurrence of AD. The effect of preventing AD in statin use may be greater in individuals with relatively low risk.
COMPARISON OF PARTICLE SHAPES OF CONVENTIONALLY GROUND BARITE, CALCITE AND TALC MINERALS BY DYNAMIC IMAGING TECHNIQUE: A REVIEW
Authors: Ulusoy Ugur
Published: September 2020

Shape of particles made by grinding is one of the important measures for determining the utilizations of industrial minerals namely barite, calcite, and talc particles, particularly at production (like coating pigments, paints, rubber and paper) and processing stages (beneficiation by flotation). Therefore, measurement of particle characteristics is a critical issue in the development and control of industrial mineral products in most of the industries for some demanding applications. Ball and rod mills are commonly used as conventional grinding mills to produce a controlled grind size for the flotation circuit in the beneficiation of industrial minerals. Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA) offers reproducible results of a huge number of particles for some industrial minerals namely, barite [1], calcite [2] and talc [3] particles, whose shapes are crucial for some industries utilized as fillers. Thus, this review is about the comparison of shape values in terms of circularity (C) and bounding rectangle aspect ratio (BRAR) determined by the real time DIA. It was found that the shape results of the previous studies for the same samples by SEM measurement [4] were in good agreement with DIA results. It was concluded that the more rounded particles were encountered in the rod milled products for calcite and barite minerals. On the other hand, the more elongated particles were found in the ball milled products for talc mineral. It was attributed to the material type since the same mills were used for all tests. Hence, DIA can be used as a useful tool, which is easy, fast and highly accurate to control the particle shape distributions whether the required powder is fit for use
Choosing the ‘β’ Parameter When Using the Bonacich Power Measure
Authors: Rodan Simon
Published: October 2020

Bonacich (1987) suggested a family of centrality measures that provide a useful way of modeling questions of power and network constraint. However, the literature offers little guidance regarding the choice of β, the parameter which alters the way the measure accounts for the effect of having powerful contacts in ones network. In this paper I explore the way the choice of the β parameter affects the power indices the Bonacich measure generates. I consider three network properties which might affect the way the choice of β influences the Bonacich power indices. I find that in high density networks with few internal ‘chains’ and few pendants, the choice of β is largely immaterial. Conversely, in sparse networks, those with a high proportion of pendant nodes, or those with many chains, the value of β has a substantial effect on the power indices the measure generates. Next I consider whether power indices produced by interior values of β might be represented as a linear combination of “pure” vectors, those generated with values of β at either end of the parameter range and β = 0. I find that in the vast majority of cases a linear combination of “pure” vectors power is equivalent to using indices produced by interior values of β, making the choice of β largely moot. Finally, in the unlikely case that this disaggregation is inappropriate, I discuss the question of determining an appropriate value of β empirically.
Curvature effects on phase transitions in chiral magnets
Authors: Yershov Kostiantyn , Kravchuk Volodymyr , Sheka Denis , Roessler Ulrich
Published: October 2020

Periodical equilibrium states of magnetization exist in chiral
ferromagnetic films, if the constant of antisymmetric exchange
(Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction) exceeds some critical value. Here,
we demonstrate that this critical value can be significantly modified in
curved film. The competition between symmetric and antisymmetric
exchange interactions in a curved film can lead to a new type of domain
wall which is inclined with respect to the cylinder axis. The wall
structure is intermediate between Bloch and Néel ones. The exact
analytical solutions for phase boundary curves and the new domain wall
are obtained.
Academic entrepreneurship in Sudanese universities: explaining entrepreneurial intention using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)
Authors: Abedelrahim Selma
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to fill the literature gap of entrepreneurial intention antecedents from the academic staff’s perspective using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in an underdeveloped country context. Empirical results were derived from a quantitative approach based on a survey method with a selected academic staff sample of 97 Sudanese public universities. Hypotheses testing was done using the structural equation modeling (SEM) through the partial least squares (PLS) method to test the impact of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived control as the antecedents of entrepreneurial intention. The study results revealed the applicability and consistency of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in explaining Sudan’s academic entrepreneurial intention. The results indicated that attitude, subjective norms, and perceived control explained 61.70% of the entrepreneurial intention (EI) variance. Perceived control (PC) proved to be the primary antecedent of EI, which explained 42.20% of EI variance, while the business environment and experience were the leading influencers of perceived control. This result can guide the authorities to formulate policies that encourage the transformation of the Sudanese universities to be entrepreneurial.
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension – still evolving
Authors: Gerges Mario , Yacoub Magdi
Published: September 2020

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is one of the leading causes of severe pulmonary hypertension (PH). The disease is still underdiagnosed, and the true prevalence is unknown. CTEPH is characterized by intraluminal non-resolving thrombus organization and fibrous stenosis, or complete obliteration of pulmonary arteries, promoted by progressive remodeling of the pulmonary vasculature. One consequence of this is an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance and pressure, resulting in PH and progressive right heart failure, leading to death if left untreated.Endovascular disobliteration by pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is the preferred treatment for CTEPH patients. PEA surgery is the only technique that can potentially cure CTEPH disease, especially in patients with fresh or organized thrombi of the proximal branches of pulmonary arteries. However, not all patients are eligible for PEA surgery. Recent research has provided evidence suggesting balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) and targeted medical therapy as additional promising available treatments options for inoperable CTEPH and recurrent/persistent PH after PEA surgery.Studies on BPA have shown it to improve pulmonary hemodynamics, symptoms, exercise capacity and RV function in inoperable CTEPH. Subsequently, BPA has developed into an essential component of the modern era of CTEPH treatment. Large randomized controlled trials have demonstrated varying significant improvements with targeted medical therapy in technically inoperable CTEPH patients. Thus, treatment of CTEPH requires a comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment, including an experienced PEA surgeon, PH specialist, BPA interventionist and CTEPH-trained radiologist at expert centers. In this comprehensive review, we address the latest developments in the fast-evolving field of CTEPH. These include advancements in imaging modalities and developments in operative and interventional techniques, which have widened the range of patients who may benefit from these procedures. The efficacy and safety of targeted medical therapies in CTEPH patients are also discussed. As the treatment options for CTEPH improve, hybrid management involving multiple treatments in the same patient may become a viable option in the near future.
Peningkatan Keaktifan Belajar Siswa dengan Penggunaan Metode Ceramah Interaktif
Authors: Rikawati Kezia , Sitinjak Debora
Published: October 2020

Karakter siswa yang selfcentered dan serba instan mempengaruhi disiplin belajar dan respon mereka selama pembelajaran. Siswa menjadi tidak aktif dan tujuan pembelajaran belum bisa tercapai dengan efektif. Maka dari itu, guru mengupayakan metode yang meningkatkan keaktifan siswa agar siswa dapat memahami pembelajaran. Metode tersebut adalah metode ceramah interaktif yang di dalamnya terdapat kombinasi dari metode ceramah, tanya jawab, dan diskusi. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif deskriptif, artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji tentang penggunaan metode ceramah interaktif sebagai upaya untuk meningkatkan keaktifan siswa. Pemaparan metode ceramah interaktif dapat memberikan gambaran tentang bagaimana tahap-tahap dalam metode ini dan interaksi yang terjadi di dalamnya dapat memenuhi indikator keaktifan belajar berupa semangat mengikuti pembelajaran, berani bertanya, berani menjawab pertanyaan, dan berani mempresentasikan hasil belajar siswa di depan kelas melalui interaksi yang ada. Penggunaan metode ceramah interaktif efektif digunakan sebagai alternatif solusi untuk masalah keaktifan siswa dan mendukung pencapaian tujuan pembelajaran.