bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diameter of Superior Rectal Vein – CT Predictor of KRAS mutation in Rectal Carcinoma
Authors: Song Chenyu , Shen Bingqi , Dong Zhi , Fan Zhenzhen , Xu Ling , Li Zi-Ping , Li Yin , Feng Shi-Ting
Published: April 2020

Background The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of CT parameters to predict the presence of KRAS mutation in rectal cancer patients. The relationship between KRAS mutation and pathological findings was evaluated simultaneously.Methods 89 patients (29 females, 60 males, age 27–90, mean 59.7 ± 12 years) with pathologically proven rectal cancer were enrolled. KRAS mutation test was completed following surgery. Parameters evaluated on CT included the diameter of superior rectal vein (SRV) and inferior mesenteric vein (IMV), the presence of calcification, ulceration, lymph node enlargement (LNE), distant metastasis, tumor growth pattern (single nodule or annular thickening), enhanced pattern (homogeneous or heterogeneous), CT ratio and the length of tumor (LOT). Pathological findings included lymphovascular emboli, signet ring cell, peripheral fat interval infiltration, focal ulcer, lymph node metastasis, tumor pathological type and differentiation extent. The correlations between KRAS status and CT parameters, KRAS status and pathological findings were investigated. The accuracy of CT characteristics for predicting KRAS mutation was evaluated.Results KRAS mutation was detected in 42 cases. On CT image, the diameter of SRV was significantly increased in KRAS mutation group than in KRAS wild-type group (4.6 ± 0.9 mm vs. 4.2 ± 0.9 mm, p = 0.02). And LNE was more likely to occur in KRAS mutation group (73.3% vs. 26.7%, p = 0.03). There was no significant difference between KRAS mutation group and KRAS wild-type group on the other CT parameters (IMV, calcification, ulcer, distant metastasis, tumor growth pattern, enhanced pattern, CT ratio and LOT). In pathological findings, KRAS mutation was more likely to occur in middle differentiation group (p = 0.03). No significant difference was found between KRAS mutation group and KRAS wild-type group in the presence of lymphovascular emboli, signet ring cell, peripheral fat interval infiltration, focal ulcer, lymph node metastasis, tumor pathological type. The AUC of SRV to predict KRAS mutation was 0.63.Conclusion It was feasible to use the diameter of SRV to predict KRAS mutation in rectal cancer patients, and LNE also can be regarded as an important clue on preoperative CT images.
Performance of SwiftScan planar and single photon emission computed tomography technology using low-energy high-resolution and sensitivity collimator
Authors: Shibutani Takayuki , Onoguchi Masahisa , Yoneyama Hiroto , Konishi Takahiro , Nakajima Kenichi
Published: April 2020

Background

A new low-energy high-resolution-sensitivity (LEHRS) collimator was developed by General Electric Healthcare. SwiftScan planar and SPECT system using LEHRS collimator were formulated to achieve the low-dose and/or short-term acquisition. We demonstrated the performance of SwiftScan planar and SPECT system with LEHRS collimator using phantoms.
Methods

Line source, cylindrical and flat plastic dish phantoms were used to evaluate the performance of planar and SPECT images for four patterns of Siemens LEHR, GE LEHR, GE LEHRS and SwiftScan using two SPECT-CT scanners. Each phantom was filled with 99mTc solution, and the spatial resolution, sensitivity and image uniformity were calculated from the planar and SPECT data.
Results

The full-width at half maximum (FWHM) values as system spatial resolution of Siemens LEHR, GE LEHR and GE LEHRS were 7.3, 7.5 and 7.3 mm, respectively. GE LEHRS showed the lower FWHM value by increasing the blend ratio in Clarity 2D processing. The system sensitivities of Siemens LEHR, GE LEHR and GE LEHRS were 88.4, 67.6 and 89.8 cps/MBq, respectively. The system sensitivity of GE LEHRS increased by approximately 30% compared with that of GE LEHR and was similar to that of Siemens LEHR. The FWHM values of SPECT with an FBP method were 10.3, 10.4, 10.4 and 10.3 mm (p = n.s.). The FWHM values of the OSEM method were better with an increase in iteration values. The differential uniformities of Siemens LEHR, GE LEHR, GE LEHRS and GE SwiftScan were 15.3%, 15.1%, 15.4% and 14.6%, respectively, using the FBP method. The differential uniformity of OSEM method was higher with an increase in iteration value.
Conclusion

The SwiftScan planar and SPECT have a high sensitivity while maintaining the spatial resolution compared with the conventional system.
Features for deep vein thrombosis in the uninjured limbs of lower extremity fractures: a retrospective study 1454 patients
Authors: Qu Shuang-Wei , Cong Yu-Xuan , Wang Peng-Fei , Fei Chen , Li Zhi , Yang Kun , Shang Kun , Ke Chao , Huang Hai , Zhuang Yan , Zhang Bin-Fei , Zhang Kun
Published: April 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of and independent risk factors for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in the uninjured limb, before and after operation, in patients with lower extremity fractures.Methods: We collected the clinical data of patients with lower extremities fractures who presented at Xi’an Honghui Hospital between 1 July, 2015 and 31 October, 2017. Doppler ultrasonography was used to diagnose the DVT. Patients were examined pre- and postoperatively. The patients were then divided into a thrombosis group and a no thrombosis group according to the preoperative and postoperative ultrasonography results. The thrombosis group was defined as patients admitted to our hospital with DVT in the uninjured limb and the no thrombosis group was defined as patients without DVT in the uninjured limb.Results: This study enrolled 1454 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The incidence of preoperative DVT in the uninjured limb was 9.63% whereas the postoperative incidence was 20.29%. Age (OR=0.965, 95 CI%: 0.954 - 0.977; P=0.000) and gender (OR=0.667, 95% CI: 0.451-0.986, P=0.042) were independent risk factors for preoperative DVT in the uninjured limb. Blood loss (OR=0.997, 95 CI%: 0.995-1.000; P=0.020), D-dimer levels at admission (OR=0.941, 95 CI%: 0.887-0.999; P=0.045), and postoperative day 5 D-dimer levels (OR=0.889, 95 CI%: 0.819-0.965; P=0.005), were independent risk factors for postoperative DVT in the uninjured limb.Conclusion: In conclusion, the actual incidence of DVT in the uninjured lower extremity after fracture may currently be underestimated and should be pay more attention.
TM4SF1 promotes EMT and cancer stemness via Wnt/β-catenin/SOX2 pathway in colorectal cancer
Authors: TANG QIANG , Chen Jinghuang , Di Ziyang , Yuan Wenzheng , Zhou Zili , Liu Zhengyi , Han Shengbo , Liu Yanwei , Di Maojun , Shu Xiaogang
Published: April 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
AML Risk Stratification Models Utilizing ELN-2017 Guidelines and Additional Prognostic Factors: A SWOG Report
Authors: Pogosova-Agadjanyan Era L , Moseley Anna , Othus Megan , Appelbaum Frederick R. , Chauncey Thomas R. , Chen I-Ming L. , Erba Harry P. , Godwin John E. , Jenkins Isaac C. , Fang Min , Huynh Mike , Kopecky Kenneth J. , List Alan F. , Naru Jasmine , Radich Jerald P. , Stevens Emily , Willborg Brooke E. , Willman Cheryl L. , Wood Brent L. , Zhang Qing , Meshinchi Soheil , Stirewalt Derek L.
Published: April 2020

Background The recently updated European LeukemiaNet risk stratification guidelines combine cytogenetic abnormalities and genetic mutations to provide the means to triage patients with acute myeloid leukemia for optimal therapies. Despite the identification of many prognostic factors, relatively few have made their way into clinical practice.Methods In order to assess and improve the performance of the European LeukemiaNet guidelines, we developed novel prognostic models using the biomarkers from the guidelines, age, performance status and select transcript biomarkers. The models were developed separately for mononuclear cells and viable leukemic blasts from previously untreated acute myeloid leukemia patients (discovery cohort, N = 185) who received intensive chemotherapy. Models were validated in an independent set of similarly treated patients (validation cohort, N = 166).Results Models using European LeukemiaNet guidelines were significantly associated with clinical outcomes and, therefore, utilized as a baseline for comparisons. Models incorporating age and expression of select transcripts with biomarkers from European LeukemiaNet guidelines demonstrated higher area under the curve and C-statistics but did not show a substantial improvement in performance in the validation cohort. Subset analyses demonstrated that models using only the European LeukemiaNet guidelines were a better fit for younger patients (age < 55). Models integrating age and European LeukemiaNet guidelines visually showed more separation between risk groups in older patients. Models, which excluded results for ASXL1, CEBPA, RUNX1 and TP53, demonstrated a limited overall contribution to risk stratification across the entire population, given the low frequency of mutations and confounding risk factors.Conclusions While European LeukemiaNet guidelines remain a critical tool for triaging patients with acute myeloid leukemia, the findings illustrate the need for additional prognostic factors, including age, to improve risk stratification.
Psychometric Properties of a New Self-Report Measure of Medical Student Stress using Classic and Modern Test Theory Approaches
Authors: Mosquera Matthew Joseph , Kaat Aaron , Ring Melinda , Agarwal Gaurava , Glickson Sydney , Victorson David
Published: April 2020

Background.
Medical students face significant stressors related to the intense rigors of their training and education. Accurate measurement of their stress is important to quickly identify, characterize and ameliorate these challenges. Existing measures have limitations that modern measurement approaches, such as item response theory (IRT), are able to address. This study presents the calibration and validation of a new IRT-based measure called the Medical Student Stress Scale (MSSS).
Methods.
Following rigorous measurement development procedures described elsewhere, the authors created and tested a pool of 35 items with 348 1st – 4th year medical students along with demographic and external validity measures. Psychometric analysis included exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, IRT modeling, and correlations with legacy measures.
Results.
Of the original 35 items, 22 were retained based on their ability to discriminate, provide meaningful information, and perform well against legacy measures. The MSSS differentiated stress scores between male and female students, as well as between year in school.
Conclusion.
Developed with input from medical students, the MSSS represents a student-centered measurement tool that provides precise, relevant information about stress and holds potential for screening and outcomes-related applications.
Assessing the acceptability of a text messaging service and smartphone app to support patient adherence to medications prescribed for high blood pressure: a pilot study.
Authors: Kassavou Aikaterini , Court Charlotte A , Chauhan Jagmohan , Brimicombe James , Bhattacharya Debbi , Naughton Felix , Hardeman Wendy , Mascolo Cecilia , Sutton Stephen
Published: April 2020

Aims and objectives. This paper describes the pilot study of a highly tailored text message and smartphone app intervention to increase adherence to anti-hypertensive medication in primary care. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of the intervention and obtain patients views about the intervention content, the delivery mode, and the mechanisms by which the intervention supported medication adherence. Methods. Patients diagnosed with hypertension were invited to the study via general practice text message invitation and recruited face to face by the researcher team. Participants tested the text message intervention for 28 or the text message followed by the app for 56 days. Participants completed baseline and follow up questionnaires and took part in a weekly or end of intervention telephone interviews. Digital log files captured patients’ usage of the intervention. Participant transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data from questionnaires and log files. A mixed methods analysis generated data to respond to the research questions. Results. 79 patients expressed their interest to participate in this study and 23 of these patients were recruited to take part. With one drop-out, 22 participants tested the text message delivery mode (with 20 being interviewed) and four requested to switch to the app (with 3 being interviewed). All participants used and engaged with the text message and app notifications, and most participants found the intervention content and delivery mode acceptable. They also self-reported that the intervention supported them to take their medications as prescribed. Conclusion. This study provides evidence that the digital intervention is acceptable by hypertensive patients recruited in primary care, thus it should be tested for its effectiveness using rigorous research methods. ISRCTN12805654 https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN12805654
Extended doxycycline treatment versus salpingectomy in the management of patients of hydrosalpinx undergoing IVF-ET
Authors: Fouda Usama , Elshaer Hesham , Youssef Mohamed , Darweesh Fatma
Published: April 2020

Background
The aim of this study was to determine whether the treatment with doxycycline before and after oocyte retrieval is as effective as salpingectomy in minimizing the detrimental effect of hydrosalpinx on the outcomes of IVF-ET.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was done for the outcomes of the IVF-ET cycles of patients with hydrosalpinx who underwent laparoscopic salpingectomy prior to IVF cycle ( n = 260 ) or were treated with extended doxycycline treatment during the IVF cycle (n = 45).In doxycycline group, doxycycline (100 mg twice daily ) was started one week before anticipated oocyte retrieval and was continued for one week after oocyte retrieval. In salpingectomy group, the mesosalpinx was coagulated as close as possible to the fallopian tube.
Results
The implantation, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy and live birth rates were significantly higher in the salpingectomy group ( 20.87% Vs. 9.91%, P value = 0.007, 44.62% Vs. 20% P value = 0.002, 39.62% Vs. 17.78%,P value = 0.005 and 37.31% Vs. 15.56% P value = 0.005 respectively).
Conclusion
Salpingectomy is more effective than extended doxycycline treatment in improving the outcomes of IVF-ET in patients with hydrosalpinx undergoing IVF-ET. Further, larger well designed randomized controlled trials should be conducted to confirm the findings of this study.
The Association between Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity and Risk of Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Adults: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Sohouli Mohammadhassan , Fatahi Somaye , Shidfar Farzad
Published: April 2020

ObjectiveDietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) has been assumed as a useful tool to assess the relationship between the cumulative antioxidant food capacity and several chronic disorders. However, the relationship between the total antioxidant capacity of the diet (TAC) and the risk of NAFLD has not been previously examined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between DTAC and risk of NAFLD in a case-control study.MethodsThis case-control study was carried out among 158 patients with NAFLD and 357 healthy subjects aged 18–55 years. Dietary data were collected using a validated 168- items quantitative food frequency questionnaire. DTAC was calculated based on the ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP) values that reported by US Department of Agriculture.ResultsThe mean age and BMI of the study participants were 43.9 years and 30.5. The NAFLD patients had higher BMI and female’s percentage compared with controls. Also, compared with the control, the NAFLD cases have a higher level of Smoking, biochemical parameters, and DTAC score. Whereas, patients with NAFLD had a lower HDL and physical activity then the control groups. The highest tertiles of DTAC showed lower risk of NAFLD compared to the lowest tertiles. Also, this association was significant after controlling for potential confounders.ConclusionsOur findings showed that a high DTAC was associated with a reduced risk of NAFLD in adult, suggesting that promoting a naturally elevated antioxidant capacity might help prevent the development of NAFLD. Further prospective studies should be conducted in this regard.
Effects of a sugar-reduction intervention on diet and continuous blood glucose in adolescents on the remote Pacific island of Kiritimati: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Plows Jasmine F , Rios Claudia , Berger Paige K , Jones Roshonda B , Alderete Tanya L , Steinberg Skylar , Bangao Teraira , Beale Elizabeth , Goran Michael I
Published: April 2020

Background

Kiritimati is a remote Pacific Island estimated to have high rates of overweight/obesity (~ 81%) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM; ~27%), potentially related to high sugar consumption starting early in life. We aimed to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of a short-term dietary sugar-reduction intervention on sugar consumption and glucose control in Kiritimati adolescents.
Methods

A school-based pilot randomized controlled trial over two weeks. The two high schools on Kiritimati were randomized to the control school and the intervention school. Inclusion criteria was enrollment at one of the two high schools on the island. Exclusion criteria was age > 18 years. 63 students enrolled (n = 26 control; n = 37 intervention). The intervention consisted of installing a water filter at the school, providing reusable water bottles, and a 30-minute group dietary education session. Beverage frequency questionnaires and 24-hour diet recalls were conducted at baseline and follow-up. Continuous blood glucose monitors (CGMs; FreeStyle Libre Pro) measured indices of blood glucose control over 14 days (one-week pre-intervention, one-week post-intervention). A statistically significant effect of the intervention was considered a time x group interaction term of p < 0.05.
Results

The total sample at baseline was 16.5 ± 1.2 years old of which 45.5% were male and 60.3% had overweight or obesity. Added sugar consumption decreased in the intervention group (131 ± 77 to 47 ± 49 g/day), with no change in the control group (pinteraction=0.001). However, there were no significant effects of the intervention on any of the CGM measures, which were normal at baseline. No adverse events were noted.
Conclusions

A 7-day sugar-reduction intervention significantly reduced sugar intake but had no effects on CGM measures in Kiritimati adolescents at high risk for obesity and T2DM. This pilot study suggests a simple sugar-reduction intervention could improve diet quality in adolescents on Pacific Islands with high rates of obesity/T2DM.
Trial Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04319003. Registered March 24 2020 – retrospectively registered, clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04319003
Peer-Assisted Injection as a Harm Reduction Measure in a Supervised Consumption Service: A Qualitative Study of Client Experiences
Authors: Pijl Em M. , Oosterbroek Tracy , Motz Takara , Mason Erin , Hamilton Keltie , Bourque Stacey , Manning Jill
Published: April 2020

Background
Peer assistance is an emerging area of study in intravenous drug use. When Canada’s first supervised consumption site (SCS) opened in 2003 in Vancouver, BC, clients were prohibited from injecting their peers; only recently has this practice been introduced as a harm reduction measure at these sites. In Alberta, a government-sanctioned SCS recently received federal exemption to allow peer-assisted injection in their facility, under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Literature pertaining to peer-assisted injection, while scant, addresses several topics: interpersonal relationships between the injector and recipient; the roles of ritual and pragmatism; and gender inequality.
Methods
In this qualitative, descriptive study, participants were interviewed about their experiences in a peer-assist program at an SCS regulated by Health Canada.
Results
Participants expressed being moved by compassion to help others inject. While their desire to assist was pragmatic, they felt a significant burden of responsibility for the outcomes. Other prominent factors were social connection, trust, safety, social capital, and reciprocity. Participants also made suggestions for improving the peer-assist program.
Conclusions
These findings reveal the humanity within a cohort of at-risk individuals, often dehumanized at the societal level. Relational equity and mutuality were evident, in contrast to other studies. Regular use of the SCS, and access to its resources, enabled participants to make healthier choices and practise lower-risk injections. At the federal level, there is considerable room to advocate for allowing clients to divide drugs safely within the SCS, and to increase capacity for safer alternatives such as inhalation.
Epidemiology, Prenatal Diagnosis, and Neonatal Outcomes of Congenital Heart Defects in Eastern China: A Hospital-Based Multicenter Study
Authors: zhang xiaohui , Sun Yu , Zhu Jiajun , Zhu Yuning
Published: April 2020

Background : Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common birth defect. Currently, the reported occurrence of CHD continues to increase at global or regional level. In 2013, Chinese government announced to end 1-child birth policy. We aimed to update the incidence, prenatal diagnosis, and neonatal outcomes of CHD since the ending of 1-child policy, in eastern China. Study design : Data were obtained from the Zhejiang provincial birth defects surveillance system. CHD identified during 2014-2018 were analyzed. Chi-square test, odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to explore incidence trends, prenatal diagnosis, birth outcomes and associated risk factors with CHD. Results : Overall, 8,546 of 534,002 births were identified with CHD. During the period, the overall incidence of CHD increased significantly, giving an average incidence as 16.0 per 1000 births (95% CI 15.69-16.32). However, the incidence of critical CHD (CCHD) remained stable over time (1.6 per 1000 births, 95% CI 1.47-1.69).Women aged less than 20 years (OR2.1, 95%CI 1.9-2.3) or ≥35 years (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.2-1.3) were at higher risk of CHD than women aged 21-34 years. Births in urban areas (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.2-1.3), male sex (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.3-1.4), and multiple births (OR 4.0, 95% CI 3.7-4.4) had a higher risk of CHD than births in rural areas, female sex, and singletons, respectively. The three major subtypes of CHD were atrial septal defect (ASD, 68.0%), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA, 34.7%), and ventricular septal defect (VSD, 6.4%). A total of 22.2% of CHD was detected prenatally. Regarding to perinatal outcomes, there were 1457 (17.1%) stillbirths, 106 (1.2%) early neonatal deaths, and 6983 (81.7%) live births. Conclusion : The high incidence of CHD might be attributable to the large proportion of mild CHD. Pregnancies in urban areas, male births, and younger or older women were the risk factors for CHD. The prenatal detection rate for overall CHD was low, whereas the rate for CCHD was similar or even higher than other studies. The neonatal outcomes were comparable to previous literatures.
Effect of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 activation on the delayed rectifier potassium current in the hippocampal pyramidal neurons and Kv subunit expression in the hippocampi of mice
Authors: Zhou Li , Xu Weixing , An Dong , Men Chen , Li Yingchun , Du Yimei , Chen Lei
Published: April 2020

Activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) can increase hippocampal neuronal excitability. Recent studies have reported that TRPV4 may be involved in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Voltage-gated potassium channels (VGPCs) play an important role in regulating neuronal excitability and abnormal VGPCs expression or function is related to epilepsy. Activation of TRPV4 can modulate ion channels, but whether activation of it could modulate VGPCs in hippocampal neurons remains unknown. Here we examined the effect of TRPV4 activation on the delayed rectifier potassium current (IK) in the hippocampal pyramidal neurons and on the Kv subunits expression. We also explored the role of TRPV4 in changes in Kv subunits expression in mice following pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (PISE). Application of TRPV4 agonists, GSK1016790A and 5,6-EET, markedly reduced IK in the hippocampal pyramidal neurons, shifted the voltage-dependent inactivation curve to the hyperpolarization direction, and had no effect on the voltage-dependent activation curve. GSK1016790A- and 5,6-EET-induced inhibition of IK was blocked by TRPV4 specific antagonists, HC-067047 and RN1734. GSK1016790A-induced inhibition of IK was markedly attenuated by calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) antagonist, but was not affected by protein kinase C or protein kinase A antagonists. Application of GSK1016790A for up to 1 h did not change the hippocampal protein levels of Kv1.1, Kv1.2, or Kv2.1. Intracerebroventricular injection of GSK1016790A for 3 d reduced the hippocampal protein levels of Kv1.2 and Kv2.1, leaving that of Kv1.1 unchanged. Kv1.2 and Kv2.1 protein levels were reduced markedly in hippocampi on day 3 post PISE, which was significantly reversed by HC-067047. We conclude that activation of TRPV4 inhibits IK in the hippocampal pyramidal neurons, possibly by activating CaMKII. Persistent activation of TRPV4 decreased Kv1.2 and Kv2.1 expression, which may be associated with the decrease in Kv1.2 and Kv2.1 expression following PISE.
Analysis of Hand-Forearm Anthropometric Components in Assessing Handgrip and Pinch Strengths of School-Aged Children and Adolescents: A Partial Least Squares (PLS) Approach
Authors: Rostamzadeh Sajjad , Saremi Mahnaz , Vosoughi Shahram , Bradtmiller Bruce , Janani Leila , Farshad Ali Asghar , Taheri Fereshteh
Published: April 2020

Background The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of hand-forearm anthropometric dimensions on handgrip and pinch strengths among 7–18 years children and adolescents and to investigate the extent to which these variables can be used to predict hand strength.Methods Four types of hand strengths including handgrip, tip to tip, key, and three-jaw chuck pinches were measured in 2637 healthy children and adolescents (1391 boys and 1246 girls) aged 7–18 years using standard adjustable Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer and pinch gauge. A set of 17 hand-forearm anthropometric dimensions were also measured with an accurate digital caliper and tape measure.Results No significant differences were found between the hand strengths of boys and girls up to the age of 10 years. Gender related differences in handgrip and pinches were observed from the age of 11 years onwards, with boys always being stronger. The dominant hand was stronger than the non-dominant hand (8% for handgrip and by about 10% for all three types of pinches). The strongest correlations were found between the hand length and hand strengths (r > 0.83 for handgrip and three all pinches; p < 0.001, 2-tailed). Based on the partial least squares (PLS) analysis, 8 out of 17 anthropometric indices including hand length, hand circumference, thumb length, index finger length, middle finger length, and forearm length had considerable loadings in the PLS analysis, which together accounted for 46% of the total variance.Conclusions These results may be used by health professionals in clinical settings as well as by designers to create ergonomic hand tools.
Immunosenescence of Lymphocytes T and Implications for Age-Related Disorders
Authors: Tylutka Anna , Morawin Barbara , Gramacki Artur , Zembron-Lacny Agnieszka
Published: April 2020

Background. The decrease in immunity with age is still a major health concern as elderly people are more susceptible to infections and increased incidence of autoimmunity. Consequently, there is an increasing interest in immunosenescence and changes in immunology cells like T cells. The aim of our study was to find a disproportion in subpopulation of T cells as well as CD4/CD8 ratio depending on the age, gender or comorbidities. Results. In the present study, a flow cytometry was used to indicate the differences between age, sex, disorders and fat content in the CD4+ and CD8+ T cells population divided into naïve and memory cells as well as CD4/CD8 ratio in people aged 71.9± 5.8 years (females n=83, males n=16) compared to young people aged 20.6 ± 1.1 years (females n=12, males n=19). The percentage of naïve CD4+ and CD8+ cells was found to be statistically significantly lower in the elderly compared to the young. In addition, gender was observed to play an important role in the outcomes in the analysed subpopulations and in female group, who live statistically longer than males, our older group of Polish women demonstrated a significantly higher percentage of naïve lymphocytes in both the CD4+ and CD8+ populations compared to men. The CD4/CD8 ratio increases with age, which can be considered one of the markers determining longevity. Elderly people with age-related diseases (hypertension) also show an increased level of CD4/CD8 ratio as well as CD4+. Conclusion. We demonstrated that changes in the T cells population, including naïve cell population as well as CD4/CD8 ratio, are important markers which can be predictive of healthy status. In order to accurately determine longevity, gender or age-associated diseases should be taken into account.
Primary signet ring cell carcinoma of colon and rectum often presents as long segment stenosis in young patients
Authors: Weng Meng Tzu , Chao Ko-Han , Tung Chien-Chih , Chang Hao-Chun , Shih I-Lun , Lin Been-Ren , Shieh Ming-Jium , Shun Chia-Tung , Wong Jau-Min , Wei Shu-Chen
Published: April 2020

Background: Primary signet ring cell carcinoma of the colon and rectum (PSRCCR) is rare, usually diagnosed at advanced stage with poor outcomes. We aimed to find possible diagnostic clues in order to help diagnosis. Methods: A retrospective study of PSRCCR patients from 1993 to 2018 was reviewed at a single tertiary center. Colorectal adenocarcinoma patients as control group with 1:4 ratio was also enrolled. Results: 18 patients with PSRCCR were identified. The prevalence rate was 0.16% (18 of 11,515). The mean age was 50.2 years-old in PSRCCR group and 63 years-old in non-SRCC colorectal cancer patients ( p < 0.001). Diagnosis tool depends on CFS were much less in PSRCCR group than control group (44.4 % vs 93 %, p < 0.001). SRCC patients had higher level of CEA (68.3 vs 17.7 ng/mL, p =0.004) and lower level of Albumin (3.4 vs 4.3 g/dL, p < 0.001). The majority of PSRCCR tumor configuration was ulcerative and infiltrative. More PSRCCR pathology presented as high-grade carcinoma (66.7 vs 1.4 %, p < 0.001) and lymphovascular invasion (77.8 vs 44.4 %, p = 0.011) than control group. More PSRCCR patients were diagnosed at advanced stage (88.8 vs 40.3 %, p = 0.001). Higher mortality was also noticed in PSRCCR group than control group (72.2 vs 20.8 %, p < 0.001). Conclusion: For young patients with long segment colonic stenosis and ulcerative/ infiltrative mucosa but endoscopic biopsy failed to identify malignant cells, earlier operation or non-colon site biopsy is suggested for diagnosing the PSRCCR.
Targeting tumor cell-derived CCL2 as a strategy to overcome bevacizumab resistance in ETV5+ colorectal cancer
Authors: Feng Haoran , Liu Kun , Liang Juyong , Wang Changgang , Qiu Weihua , Cheng Xi , Zhao Ren
Published: April 2020

Background
ETV5 mediated angiogenesis was dependent on PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β/Src/STAT3/VEGFA pathway in colorectal cancer (CRC) in our previous study. However, whether ETV5 affects effect of antiangiogenic therapy in CRC requires further investigation.
Methods
GSEA analysis and a series of experiments were performed to identify the critical candidate gene involved in bevacizumab resistance, and further explored whether the treatment targeting the candidate gene enhanced bevacizumab sensitivity in vitro and in vivo.
Results
ETV5 could directly bind to VEGFA promoter and promote translation of VEGFA. However, by in vitro and in vivo experiments, ETV5 actually accelerated anti-VEGF therapy (bevacizumab) resistance. GSEA analysis and further assays confirmed that ETV5 could promote angiogenesis by enhancing secretion of another tumor angiogenesis factor CCL2 in CRC cells, which resulted in bevacizumab resistance. ETV5 induced VEGFA and CCL2 were mutually independent to induce angiogenesis by activating PI3K/AKT and p38/MAPK signaling pathways in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In CRC tissues, ETV5 protein level was positively associated with CD31, CCL2, VEGFA protein expression. CRC patients with high expression of ETV5/VEGFA or ETV5/CCL2 showed inferior prognosis than other patients. Combination of anti-CCL2 and anti-VEGFA (Bevacizumab) treatment could more effectively inhibited tumor angiogenesis and growth than single treatment did in CRCs with high expression of ETV5 (ETV5 + CRCs).
Conclusions
Our results not only revealed ETV5 as a novel biomarker for antiangiogenic therapy, but also indicated a potential combined therapy strategy by simultaneously targeting CCL2 and VEGFA in ETV5 + CRC.
Proposal for a new therapeutic high dosage of Pidotimod in children with Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome: an observational study.
Authors: Manti Sara , Filosco Federica , Parisi Giuseppe Fabio , Finocchiaro Giuseppe Germano , Papale Maria , Giugno Andrea , Barone Patrizia , Leonardi Salvatore
Published: April 2020

Background. Despite to PFAPA syndrome is considered a benign and self-limited condition in childhood its impact on patients and families can be remarkable in many cases. Currently, the therapeutic options for managing are non-specific and no consensus exists about the best treatment to use. Pidotimod has been suggested as a new potential treatment in PFAPA syndrome for its immunodulatory effects. We conducted a preliminary, prospective, controlled, open, cross-over trial to assess the efficacy and the safety of Pidotimod in the treatment of children with PFAPA syndrome.Methods. 22 children with PFAPA syndrome were randomly allocated to treatment with Pidotimod (with 2 vials of 400 mg daily) in combination with betamethasone 0.5-1 mg on need (group A) or betamethasone 0.5-1 mg on need (group B). Each treatment period was for 3 months (Phase 1), after that patients were switched to the other arm for other 3 months (Phase 2). Efficacy was expressed in terms of number of episodes of fever, tonsillitis, and aphthous stomatitis, as well as the additional use of betamethasone on need. Safety and tolerability of the Pidotimod were evaluated on the basis of the number and type of adverse events (AEs) recorded during the treatment.Results. Patients receiving Pidotimod and betametasone showed a significant decrease in frequency of fevers (p = 0.002); number of episodes of tonsillitis (p = 0.049); aphthous stomatitis (p = 0.036) as well as the betamethasone use on need (p = 0.007). Overall, 19/22 (86.4%) showed benefits from Pidotimod administration. The safety profile of Pidotimod was excellent as no serious adverse events have been reported in the treated groups.Conclusions. We firstly showed that high dosage of Pidotimod is an effective and safe to reduce the PFAPA attacks in children.
Survey of COVID-19 self-isolation patterns in UK dental professionals: initial findings (February – April 2020)
Authors: Haigh André , Vasant Ronuk , O'Hooley Dominic
Published: April 2020

Aim: Dentistry is routinely associated with aerosol generating procedures (AGP). AGP has been suggested as a possible route for the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and may place the dental team at increased risk of infection. In the absence of widespread testing of the dental workforce to ascertain the incidence SARS-CoV-2, a web-based self-reporting survey captured self-isolation patterns in dental professionals.Method: A web-based closed questionnaire via the Survey Monkey platform captured reported COVID-19 self-isolation patterns in the dental team.Results: A total of 3,309 responses were collected. 2,888 (87.3%) responses contained valid data. 26.8% of respondents reported self-isolating. Of these 31.2% did so because they were suffering from COVID-like symptoms, 21.3% in order to protect a vulnerable member of their household, 25.7% because a member of their household was suffering from COVID-19 like symptoms, and 21.8% self-isolated in to protect themselves. The patterns of self-isolation of those who self-isolated due to COVID-like symptoms differed from the other three groups.Conclusion: Despite the inherent limitations of self-reporting surveys, a web-based self-reporting questionnaire rapidly captured self-isolating patterns in dental professionals. Those professionals who self-isolated due to COVID-like symptoms appeared to isolate earlier than those other groups. The initial findings from this survey would suggest that dental professionals have not experienced disproportionately higher levels of COVID-like symptoms.
Maternal and fetal effects of covid-19 virus on a complicated triplet pregnancy. A case-report
Authors: Rabiei Maryam , Soori Tahereh , Abiri Amene , Shizarpour Arshia , Farsi Zohreh , Pirjani Reihaneh
Published: April 2020

Background: COVID-19 virus it is going to be pandemic all around the world. There is still limited scientific evidence on the manifestations and potential impact of this virus on pregnancy.Case presentation She was a 38 year-old triplet pregnant with a history of primary infertility and had become pregnant by induction ovulation and a history of hypothyroidism and also a history of gestational diabetes. She was hospitalized at 29 weeks and 2 days gestational age due to elevated liver enzymes and finally based on a probable diagnosis of gestational cholestasis, she was treated with ursodeoxycholic acid. On the first day after hospitalization, a sonography was performed in which biophysical scores and amniotic fluid were found normal in all three fetuses with normal Doppler findings in two fetuses and increased umbilical artery resistance (PI>95%) in one fetus. Four days after hospitalization, she developed fever, cough and myalgia and her covid-19 test was positive. After maternal infection with the virus, exacerbated placental insufficiency occurred in two of the fetuses so that absent umbilical artery end diastolic flow occurred rapidly in two fetuses and finally, six days later, she underwent cesarean section due to rapid exacerbated placental insufficiency and declined biophysical score in two of fetuses. Covid-19 test of nasopharyngeal swabs was negative for first and third babies and positive for second baby .The first and third babies died 3 and 13 days after birth respectively duo to collapsed white lung and sepsis. The second baby was discharged with a good general condition. The mother was discharged three days after cesarean section. She had no fever at discharge time and also she was in good general condition.Conclusions: It was a complicated triplet pregnancy, in which, after maternal infection with the Covid-19 virus, exacerbated placental insufficiency occurred in two of the fetuses, and another fetus had positive covid-19 virus test after birth. It sounds wise that in pregnancy infected by corona virus, in addition to managing the mother, special attention should also be given to the possibility of acute placental insufficiently and subsequent fetal hypoxia and also probability of vertical transmission.
Cohesion and Coherence of Discourse in the Story of "Layangan Putus" on Social Media Facebook
Authors: Latifah Ani , Triyono Sulis
Published: April 2020

This research is to find out how the use of cohesion and coherence in the story of "Layangan Putus", which was viral some time ago. Because cohesion and coherence are important criteria and principles in a text. This research is expected to contribute to the development of the quality of story writing. So the story can be understood and useful for the readers. Thus, the purpose of writing stories can inspire readers. The method used to analyze cohesion and coherence was a descriptive analysis seen in each paragraph. The cohesion aspects analyzed were lexical and grammatical cohesion aspects. The results of this study indicated that the story of "Layangan Putus" had aspects of lexical cohesion, grammatical cohesion, and coherence. Aspects of cohesion and constructive coherence in which discourse can convey a message to readers. In this way, the contents of the story can make the reader into feeling what the writer feel.
The Departure Point in Raising Teacher’s Awareness toward the Atmosphere of Lingua Franca Case
Authors: Jati Ambar , Fauziati Endang , Tarjana Sri Samiati
Published: April 2020

There has been growing attentiveness in the English teaching literature of the prominence of English as Lingua Franca (ELF). The foremost position of English as language of global citizen should be raised up in the communication traffic in the world. Research under the case study design had been done to reveal teacher’s belief and their responses in the wave of English as Lingua Franca features in expanding circle, Indonesia. The researchers conducted the study at an Indonesian International School in Surakarta which involved two teachers as the participants by employing interview and unstructured questionnaire to collect the data. The result evidently showed that teachers in expanding circle were aware about the evolvement of English as Lingua Franca in the world. They believed that the features of English as Lingua Franca (ELF) are unproblematic as long as it does not change the fundament of their utterances. Henceforth, the teachers support the lexico-grammar features of ELF. In their speaking class, teachers give tolerance to the students who appearing these features in their classroom interaction. Furthermore, the result of this research could inspire other teachers to be more aware toward the evolvement of ELF, so that they could integrate and apply the relevancy of ELF in teaching learning process.
Transitivity Analysis of Jokowi and Prabowo Campaign Speech in Indonesian Presidential Election 2019
Authors: Guswita Khairani Ade , Suhardi Suhardi
Published: April 2020

This study of the transitivity system aims to identify and describe the type of transitivity, namely the process, participant, and circumstance which appeared in Jokowi and Prabowo campaign speech in 2019. The method used was qualitative method and researcher as key instrument in this study. The method used in collecting data was Metode Simak which proposed by Sudaryanto (2018). Data collected were analyzed by using the theory of Halliday (1985), namely Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) which focused on transitivity system. The results of the study based on data analysis show that there are 24 data or about 32% material process as dominant process that found in Jokowi campaign speech, the most dominant participant is actor that found about 15.1% or 23 data , and time as the most dominant of circumstance that found about 21.4% or 9 data. Whereas in Prabowo's campaign speech found that the most dominant process that used is material process about 37.5% or 30 data with the most dominant participant, namely actor and goal that have the same amount of data about 28 data or 18.2%, the circumstance type which is the most dominant used namely place about 11 data or 26.8%. The most dominant transitivity process used by the two presidential candidates shows that the two presidential candidates try to convey things related to the activities or actions that will be done by each presidential candidate if they are elected to become president of Indonesia in 2019-2024 period.
Factors and impacts of informal settlements residents' sanitation practices on access and sustainability of sanitation services in the policy context of Free Basic Sanitation
Authors: Muanda Christophe , Goldin Jacqueline , Haldenwang Rainer
Published: April 2020

Through the Free Basic Sanitation (FBSan) service policy, many informal settlements in South Africa have been provided with basic sanitation facilities. However, access to these facilities remains challenging for many residents. These challenges have compelled residents to adopt a range of alternative sanitation practices. Through interviews, observation and focus group discussions in five informal settlements in the Western Cape, South Africa, 383 randomly selected respondents identified factors that shape their sanitation practices and how these practices impact on access to, and sustainability of sanitation services in the policy context of the FBSan. Residents' sanitation practices include the use of buckets, porta-potties, plastic bags, and existing facilities within and outside their settlements for either defecating or discharging the bucket contents and open defecation. These sanitation practices are informed by factors including safety concerns, poor conditions of the facilities, lack of privacy and choice. These findings suggest that the provision of facilities through the FBSan policy should consider the multiple and varied needs of residents, practices and conditions of their settlements prior to the selection and deployment of facilities to informal settlements in South Africa.

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Condiciones de trabajo en la industria maquiladora de tipo electrónico. El caso de Ciudad Juárez
Authors: Venegas Aguilera Lilia , Barrera Bassols Dalia
Published: April 2020

Este trabajo es un avance de la investigación emprendida en el año de 1981 realizada en torno a las condiciones de vida y de trabajo en la industria maquiladora. Para ello se eligió a Ciudad Juárez, que para 1982 contaba ya con 42,695 trabajadores en este tipo de industria. En primer lugar se presenta la importancia y características de esta industria, particularmente de tipo electrónico, y dentro de este marco referencial se aborda el análisis de las condiciones laborales de las trabajadoras de esta rama industrial que representaban el 67% del total de trabajadores de maquiladoras de esa ciudad fronteriza. La fuente de información proviene de una encuesta aplicada en 28 empresas, el 57% de las existentes y alrededor de 162 obreras.
Comentarios sobre el problema de empleadores e inmigración de indocumentados a EUA: una oportunidad para estudios macro regionales
Authors: Nalven Joseph
Published: April 2020

El fenómeno de trabajadores de origen mexicano en Estados Unidos tiene impactos nacionales y transnacionales en México y en aquel país. Existen contrastes importantes: unos señalan la contribución económica que hacen los inmigrantes mexicanos a ambos países mientras mejoran su vida propia; otras señalan la competencia en el mercado laboral en los Estados Unidos, la cual empeoró la situación de los trabajadores nacionales de Estados Unidos. No es el propósito resolver estos dos puntos de vista, sino revisar algunos estudios sobre empleadores, puesto que la legislación implica un mayor control de empleadores con sanciones en los sectores urbanos, mientras que hace excepciones extraordinarias a los agricultores. El resultado de este trabajo nos ofrece solo una visión parcial e incompleta de cómo varía entre empresas grandes y pequeñas el empleo de inmigrantes —legales o indocumentados— en varios sectores de la economía y sobre todo, la variación microregional.