bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif promotes epithelial mesenchymal transformation of ovarian cancer cells by upregulating Smad3 and Snail1
Authors: Chen Guangyuan , Huang Ping , Xie Jiabin , Li Rihong
Published: January 2020

This study is intended to explore the effect of transcriptional coactivator with PDZ binding motif (TAZ) expression in ovarian cancer cells as well as investigate the expression of signal proteins Smad3 and Snail1. Ovarian cancer cells (SKOV-3) were divided into two groups: control
and TAZ overexpression. The overexpression of TAZ in SKOV-3 cells was determined by immunofluorescence, western blot, and qRT-PCR. The proliferation, invasiveness, and expression of epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT)-associated proteins were detected, and the expression of Smad3 and
Snail1 proteins was determined by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting TAZ were synthesized and used to transfect SKOV-3. Cell migration and invasion were observed via a wound healing assay and a transwell assay, respectively. The expressions of representative
genes involved in proliferation and migration, EMT-associated proteins and Smad3 and Snail1 proteins were also detected by western blot assays. The results of qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and western blot showed that, compared with the control group, the expressions of Smad3 and Snail1 protein
were upregulated, and the expression of EMT-related genes-including Actin, N-cadherin, and Vimentin protein-was downregulated in the TAZ overexpression group. After TAZ mRNA was suppressed, the migration and invasion ability of the TAZ siRNA group was weaker than that of the control group.
In addition, the expression level of Smad3 and Snail1 decreased when TAZ was silenced, while the expression of EMT-related genes increased. Therefore, TAZ in ovarian cancer cells can promote growth, migration, and invasiveness of cancer cells by regulating genes related to proliferation, migration,
and invasion.
Laryngeal mask versus facemask in the respiratory management during catheter ablation
Authors: Koyama Takashi , Kobayashi Masanori , Ichikawa Tomohide , Wakabayashi Yasushi , Toma Daiki , Abe Hidetoshi
Published: January 2020

Background

The purpose of this study is to investigate if a laryngeal mask could improve respiratory condition during radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA).

Methods

Twenty-four consecutive patients who underwent RFCA for atrial fibrillation were divided into two groups (Facemask group; n = 10, Laryngeal mask group; n = 14). All patients were completely sedated under intravenous anesthesia and fitted with artificial respirators during the RFCA. The capnography waveforms and their differential coefficients were analyzed to evaluate the changes of end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) values, respiratory intervals, expiratory durations, and inspiratory durations.

Results

During the RFCA, ETCO2 values of the laryngeal mask group were higher than those of the facemask group (36.0 vs. 29.2 mmHg, p = 0.005). The respiratory interval was significantly longer in the laryngeal mask group than those in the facemask group (4.28 s vs.5.25 s, p < 0.001). In both expiratory and inspiratory phases, the mean of the maximum and minimum values of CO2 was significantly higher when using a laryngeal mask than when using a facemask. The inspiratory-expiratory ratio of the laryngeal mask group was significantly larger than that of the facemask group (1.59 vs. 1.27, p < 0.001). The total procedure duration, fluoroscopic duration and the ablation energy were significantly lower in the laryngeal mask group than in the facemask group. The ETCO2 value is the most influential parameter on the fluoroscopic duration during the RFCA procedure (β = − 0.477, p = 0.029).

Conclusions

The use of a laryngeal mask could stabilize respiration during intravenous anesthesia, which could improve the efficiency of RFCA.
Magnetic γFe2O3@Sh@Cu2O: an efficient solid-phase catalyst for reducing agent and base-free click synthesis of 1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles
Authors: Norouzi Fereshteh , Javanshir Shahrzad
Published: January 2020

A hybrid magnetic material γFe2O3@Sh@cu2O was easily prepared from Shilajit (Sh) decorated Fe3O4and copper acetate. The prepared magnetic hybrid material was fully characterized using different analysis, including Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET). All these analysis revealed that during coating of Fe3O4@Sh using copper salt (II), synchronized redox sorption of CuIIto CuIoccurs at the same time as the oxidation of Fe3O4to γFe2O3. This magnetic catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic activity for regioselective synthesis of 1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles via one pot three-component click reaction of sodium azide, terminal alkynes and benzyl halides in the absence of any reducing agent. High yields, short reaction time, high turnover number and frequency (TON = 3.5 * 105and TOF = 1.0 * 106 h−1respectively), easy separation, and efficient recycling of the catalyst are the strengths of the present method.
Factors associated with sexual violence among female administrative staff of Mekelle University, North Ethiopia
Authors: Galu Sara Bahta , Gebru Haftu Berhe , Abebe Yohannes Tesfay , Gebrekidan Kahsu Gebrekirstos , Aregay Atsede Fantahun , Hailu Kidane Gebremicheal , Abera Gerezgiher Buruh
Published: January 2020

Objective

To assess factors associated with sexual violence among female administrative staffs of Mekelle University, North Ethiopia.

Results

From the total number of participants, 188 (52.8%) had shift work and 110 (30.9%) of these had day and night shift. About half 180 (50.2%) of the participants face sexual violence similarly, 53 (14.9%) of the victims of violence performed by their boss. In multiple logistic regression analysis young age [AOR: 2.319 (1.059–5.075)], educational status of secondary school or less [AOR: 1.981 (1.126–3.485)], office and students related workplace [AOR: 4.143 (1.975–8.687), 2.887 (1.396–5.973)], having night shift [AOR: 2.131 (1.258–3.611)], having multiple partner (AOR: 8.916 (3.052–26.047)] and knowing other female violated in office [AOR: 3.920 (2.326–6.606)] were the factors associated with sexual violence.
Production of foot-and-mouth disease virus SAT2 VP1 protein
Authors: Mamabolo Mpho Victoria , Theron Jacques , Maree Francois , Crampton Michael
Published: January 2020

The seven serotypes of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) differ on the surface exposed regions on the VP1, 2 and 3 proteins. Amongst the three, the VP1 protein has been produced the most for use in serotyping assays for some of the Euro-Asian serotypes. In this study the VP1 protein of the FMDV SAT2/ZIM/7/83 was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 cells in Luria broth and EnPresso® B media in shake flasks. Production was further developed and the VP1 protein was produced at 2.15 g L−1 in fed-batch fermentations at 2 L scale. The protein formed insoluble inclusion bodies that were isolated, denatured and refolded. When tested in ELISA, the protein was found to be highly reactive with serum from a SAT2 vaccinated guinea pig, and not reactive to SAT1 and SAT3 antisera. These results open avenues to evaluate recombinantly expressed VP1 proteins for differentiation of the three Southern African Territories serotypes of FMDV that co-occur in Southern and East Africa. In addition, this could mitigate the need for employing virus as reagent, or having to raise reagent antibodies.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: SNHG6 modulates oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced endothelial cells injury through miR-135a-5p/ROCK in atherosclerosis
Authors: Shan Haiyan , Guo Dawei , Zhang Siyang , Qi Huimeng , Liu Shen , Du Yanmei , He Yini , Wang Bofu , Xu Ming , Yu Xiaosong
Published: January 2020

Background

Plenty of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play vital roles in the progression of atherosclerosis. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) is a well known lncRNA that is aberrantly high expressed in atherosclerosis patients. However, its function and basic mechanism in atherosclerosis events have not been well clarified.

Methods

The expression patterns of SNHG6, miR-135a-5p, ROCK1 and ROCK2 in clinical samples and cells were detected by RT-qPCR assays. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), flow cytometry assays, ELISA and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) detection, were performed to assess cell viability, apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress, respectively. Western blot analysis was carried out to examine the protein levels of Bax, Bcl-2, and SNHG6. Luciferase reporter and RIP assays were used to confirm the true interaction between SNHG6 and miR-135a-5p, or miR-135a-5p and ROCK.

Results

The levels of SNHG6, ROCK1 and ROCK2 were notably increased and miR-135a-5p was decreased in atherosclerosis patients and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-treated HUVECs. Knockdown of SNHG6 alleviated ox-LDL-induced injury of HUVECs, while this effect was partly reversed by miR-135a-5p inhibitor. Moreover, overexpression of ROCKs aggravated miR-135a-5p-alleviated atherosclerosis cell injury. SNHG6 contributed to ROCK expression through sequestering miR-135a-5p as a molecular sponge.

Conclusion

SNHG6 functions as a promoter in atherosclerosis events by targeting miR-135a-5p/ROCK axis in ox-LDL-stimulated HUVECs. This finding will help to develop a novel therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis.
Replacing what’s lost: a new era of stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Fan Yong , Winanto  , Ng Shi-Yan
Published: January 2020

Background

Stem cells hold tremendous promise for regenerative medicine because they can be expanded infinitely, giving rise to large numbers of differentiated cells required for transplantation. Stem cells can be derived from fetal sources, embryonic origins (embryonic stem cells or ESCs) or reprogrammed from adult cell types (induced pluripotent stem cells or iPSCs). One unique property of stem cells is their ability to be directed towards specific cell types of clinical interest, and can mature into functional cell types in vivo. While transplantations of fetal or ESC-derived tissues are known to illicit a host immunogenic response, autologous transplantations using cell types derived from one’s own iPSCs eliminate risks of tissue rejection and reduce the need for immunosuppressants. However, even with these benefits, cell therapy comes with significant hurdles that researchers are starting to overcome. In this review, we will discuss the various steps to ensure safety, efficacy and clinical practicality of cell replacement therapy in neurodegenerative diseases, in particular, Parkinson’s disease.

Main body

Parkinson’s disease (PD) results from a loss of dopaminergic neurons from the substantia nigra and is an ideal target for cell replacement therapy. Early trials using fetal midbrain material in the late 1980s have resulted in long term benefit for some patients, but there were multiple shortcomings including the non-standardization and quality control of the transplanted fetal material, and graft-induced dyskinesia that some patients experience as a result. On the other hand, pluripotent stem cells such as ESCs and iPSCs serve as an attractive source of cells because they can be indefinitely cultured and is an unlimited source of cells. Stem cell technologies and our understanding of the developmental potential of ESCs and iPSCs have deepened in recent years and a clinical trial for iPSC-derived dopaminergic cells is currently undergoing for PD patients in Japan. In this focused review, we will first provide a historical aspect of cell therapies in PD, and then discuss the various challenges pertaining to the safety and efficacy of stem cell-based cell transplantations, and how these hurdles were eventually overcome.

Conclusion

With the maturity of the iPSC technology, cell transplantation appears to be a safe and effective therapy. Grafts in non-human primates survive and remain functional for more than 2 years after transplantation, with no signs of tumorigenesis, indicating safety and efficacy of the treatment. However, immunosuppressants are still required because of the lack of “universal stem cells” that would not evoke an immune response. The results of ongoing and upcoming trials by a global consortium known as GForce-PD would be highly anticipated because the success of these trials would open up possibilities for using cell therapy for the treatment of PD and other degenerative diseases.
Trichofolliculoma of the eyelid: systematic review
Authors: Phan Kevin , Goyal Sourabh , Ahn Erica , Kim Leo , Sebaratnam Deshan Frank
Published: January 2020

Background

Trichofolliculoma of the eyelid and periorbital region remains is rare, and there is limited evidence regarding surgical management, clinical and histological margins, and recurrence rate.

Objectives

We performed a systematic review of cases to date on diagnosis and management outcomes of eyelid trichofolliculoma.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for cases reported on trichofolliculoma of the eyelid. The authors extracted and collated data from these studies, and outcomes were summarized descriptively.

Results

One hundred twenty citations were identified from database searching. The authors also report a case of eyelid trichofolliculoma. Fifteen studies reporting 19 cases of eyelid trichofolliculoma were finally included. Eighteen out of 19 (94.7%) cases were treated with surgical excision. Of 5 cases which were followed up over an average of 2 years, there was only 1 case of recurrence requiring wedge resection.

Conclusions

Recurrence rate in patients with eyelid trichofolliculoma excised with satisfactory margins appears to be low, and no cases of malignant transformation have been reported.
Sleep pattern in epilepsy patients: a polysomnographic study
Authors: Tork Mohamed A. , Rashed Hebatallah R. , Elnabil Lobna , Salah-Eldin Nahed , Elkhayat Naglaa , Abdelhady Ayman A. , Abdulghani M. Ossama , Abdulghani Khaled O.
Published: January 2020

Background

Sleep disorders and epilepsy commonly exist and affect each other. Patients with epilepsy often complain of poor sleep and on the other hand, poor sleep makes epilepsy control difficult.

Objectives

We aimed at comparing the sleep disturbances in a group of patients with medically controlled epilepsy versus another group with medically refractory epilepsy, from the electrophysiological standpoint.

Subjects and methods

Sixty epilepsy patients were included; half of them with controlled epilepsy were assigned as group I, and the other half with refractory epilepsy was assigned as group II. All patients had an overnight polysomnogram and sleep EEG done. We excluded any patient with abnormal general or neurological clinical examination.

Results

Patients in group II, had significantly delayed sleep onset latency and REM latency. However, higher arousal index, insomnia, and periodic limb movement index were found to be significantly higher in group I. Respiratory events; as light sleep durations, were observed to be higher in Group II, in addition to apnea-hypopnea index that was significantly higher in this group.

Conclusion

Epilepsy affects sleep architecture and sleep-related events. Patients with refractory epilepsy suffer from more disturbance in sleep patterns. Moreover, antiepileptic drugs can have a diverse effect on sleep architecture and quality in epileptic patients.
Evaluation of factors related to Anaesthesia-induced Lens opacity in experimental mice
Authors: Lee Hun , Kim Hong Kyung , Shin Hae Sol , Han Soo Jung , Yoon Sangchul , Seong Je Kyung , Seo Kyoung Yul
Published: January 2020

To investigate conditions that cause temporal lens opacity, we tested chemical and physical factors, such as anaesthesia dose, ocular surface dryness, and infrared (IR) light exposure in anaesthetised C57BL/6 N mice. Mice were anaesthetised with a low (80%; tiletamine/zolazepam 32 mg/kg and xylazine 8 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) or high (120%; 48 mg/kg and 12 mg/kg) dose of anaesthetic and examined every 5 min from 10 to 30 min after anaesthesia was induced. Lens opacity levels were assessed and graded (1–6) using the standard classification system. Regardless of the anaesthetic dose, lens opacity grade was 1–2 in moisturised eyes with application of 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose, and 5–6 in dry ocular surface conditions. Lens opacity in mice with high-dose anaesthetic in the dry ocular surface condition was not different from that of mice with low-dose anaesthetic. Lens opacity grade 1–2 was noted in eyes in the wet ocular surface condition, regardless of IR light exposure. During IR light exposure in eyes in the dry ocular surface condition, lens opacity (grade 6) in mice with high-dose anaesthetic was not different from that (grade 6) in mice with low-dose anaesthetic. We demonstrated that ocular surface dryness might be a relevant factor for the formation and progression of lens opacity in anesthetized C57BL/6 N mice. Anaesthesia dose and IR light exposure did not strongly influence lens opacity formation. Furthermore, eyes with corneal dryness-induced lens opacity recovered to normal status without additional intervention.
Feasibility and accuracy of real-time three-dimensional echocardiography in evaluating the aortic valve in children
Authors: Ezzeldin Dina Adel , Roushdy Alaa Mahmoud , Abdallah Abdallah Ahmed , El Fiky Azza Abdallah
Published: January 2020

Background

Aortic valve assessment by 2D transthoracic echocardiography is a relatively complex task owing to the unique anatomical features of the left ventricular outflow tract and its dynamic nature. We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of 3D transthoracic echocardiography [3D TTE] in assessing the aortic valve in children.

Results

The first group included 11 males and six females, with a mean age of 5.76 ± 6.39 years. All of these patients had aortic valve disease with a bicuspid variant. The second group included seven males and seven females, with a mean age of 4.4 ± 4.05 years. All of these patients had normal aortic valve morphology and had another congenital cardiac anomaly. The aortic valve annulus was assessed using the three modalities; 2D, 3D echocardiography in the vertical and horizontal diameters, and angiography. The aortic valve area was measured by 2D and 3D echocardiography using multiplane reformatted mode. The results of the analysis were then compared. They revealed that 3D echocardiographic measurement of the aortic annulus (horizontal diameter) correlated better with angiography than 2D and 3D (vertical diameter) echocardiographic measurements. There was a significant difference between the aortic valve area measured by 2D echocardiography and that measured by 3D echocardiography among the two groups, 2D echocardiography seems to underestimate the true aortic valve area.

Conclusion

The study concluded that 3D TTE with multiplane reformatted mode allows a more accurate assessment of the aortic valve when compared to 2D echocardiography and this correlates better with the angiographic findings.
A comparative study of multi-detector CT portography versus endoscopy in evaluation of gastro-esophageal varices in portal hypertension patients
Authors: El-Assaly Hany , Metwally Lamiaa I. A. , Azzam Heba , Seif-Elnasr Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: January 2020

Background

Portal hypertension is a major complication resulting from obstruction of portal blood flow, like cirrhosis or portal vein thrombosis, that leads to portal hypertension. MDCT angiography has become an important tool for investigation of the liver as well as potentially challenging varices by detailing the course of these tortuous vessels. This information is decisive for liver transplantation as well as for common procedures in which an unexpected varix can cause significant bleeding.

Results

This study included an assessment of 60 cases of portal hypertension (28 males and 32 females), their age ranged from 42 to 69 years (mean age = 57.2 ± 6.63). All patients were diagnosed with portal hypertension, underwent upper GI endoscopy followed by a triphasic CT scan with CT angiographic assessment for the screening of gastro-esophageal varices.

CT is highly sensitive as compared to upper GI endoscopy (sensitivity 93%) in detecting esophageal varices. Gastric varices detected by CT in 22 patients (37%) compared to 14 patients (23%) detected by endoscopy. While paraesophageal varices were detected in 63% of patients and retro-gastric varices in 80% of patients that were not visualized by endoscopy. Our study reported that the commonest type of collaterals were the splenic collaterals, and we also found there is a significant correlation between the portal vein diameter and the number of collaterals as well as between the portal vein diameter and splenic vein diameter.

Conclusions

Multi-slice CT serves as an important non-invasive imaging modality in the diagnosis of collaterals in cases of portal hypertension. CT portography can replace endoscopy in the detection of high-risk varices. It also proved that there is a correlation between portal vein diameter, splenic vein diameter, and number of collaterals.
Role of MSCT in the diagnosis of perforated gall bladder (a retrospective study)
Authors: Harraz Mohamed M. , Abouissa Ahmed H.
Published: January 2020

Background

Although gall bladder perforation (GBP) is not common, it is considered a life-threating condition, and the possibility of occurrence in cases of acute cholecystitis must be considered. The aim of this study was to assess the role of multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) in the assessment of GBP.

Results

It is a retrospective study including 19 patients that had GBP out of 147, there were 11 females (57.8%) and 8 males (42.1%), aged 42 to 79 year (mean age 60) presented with acute abdomen or acute cholecystitis. All patients were examined with abdominal ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced abdominal MSCT after written informed consent was obtained from the patients. This study was between January and December 2018. Patients with contraindications to contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) (pregnancy, acute kidney failure, or allergy to iodinated contrast agents) who underwent US only were excluded. Patients with other diagnoses, such as acute diverticulitis of the right-sided colon or acute appendicitis, were excluded. The radiological findings were evaluated such as GB distention; stones; wall thickening, enhancement, and defect; pericholecystic free fluid or collection; enhancement of liver parenchyma; and air in the wall or lumen. All CT findings are compared with the surgical results. Our results revealed that the most important and diagnostic MSCT finding in GBP is a mural defect. Nineteen patients were proved surgically to have GBP.

Conclusion

GBP is a rare but very serious condition and should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible to decrease morbidity and mortality. The most accurate diagnostic tool is the CT, MSCT findings most specific and sensitive for the detection of GBP and its complications.
Reference values for ductus venosus flow in normal gestation among an Egyptian population
Authors: Zytoon Ashraf Anas , El-Abakawy Nada Nabil Ahmed , Hassanein Shaimaa Abdel-hamid
Published: January 2020

Background

Doppler studies of the fetal circulation have demonstrated the importance of the ductus venosus in the continuous monitoring of fetuses, especially those of high-risk pregnancies that can lead to abnormal pregnancy outcome. We tried to put reference values for the normal ductus venosus (DV) flow in normal gestation to be used in further studies assessing the different pathologies.

Results

The DV length ranged from 9.8 to 20.9 mm, and the diameter ranged from 0.6 to 2.3 mm. The DV pulsatility index, resistive index, and systolic velocity/maximum velocity during atrial wave ratio declined linearly with increasing of gestational age and were increased after that during the last weeks of pregnancy. Ductus venosus S wave and A wave velocities increased linearly from a mean of 38.30 at the first trimester to 61.68 at the third trimester and from a mean of 11.38 at the first trimester to 30.71 at the third trimester respectively.

Conclusion

A reference range of the normal ductus venosus different Doppler parameters was constructed in a centile module.
Quantitative Analysis of Oncology Professional Learning Preferences
Authors: George Thomas J. , Manochakian Rami , Wood Marie , Polansky Maura , Baer Allyson , Grupe Anne , Shyr Yu , Wang Cathy , Williams Jennifer , Horn Leora
Published: January 2020

PURPOSE:

ASCO is the premier and largest global professional society for oncology care professionals. In 2015, ASCO launched a longitudinal Learning Cohort Pilot Project to catalog and better understand the learning behaviors and preferences of oncology health care providers. A secondary goal was to assess learner preferences and utilization related to ASCO’s portfolio of educational resources.

METHODS:

The Learning Cohort Pilot Project was conducted between November 2015 and August 2016 with 49 ASCO members. Participants were selected via convenience sampling and stratified random sampling to generate a cohort that mirrored the demographic distribution of overall ASCO membership. Participants completed a different ASCO resource-specific feedback activity each month, which measured professional educational needs, sources sought, and preferences for educational resources. Responses were organized by demographic variables in our participant pool to identify trends in provider learning preferences. Fisher’s exact test was used to assess the association between participant demographics and practice setting and responses. Holm’s procedure was used to adjust for multiple testing.

RESULTS:

The Learning Cohort Pilot Project revealed statistically significant relationships between participant demographic variables and learning preferences. Age and practice setting were the demographic variables most consistently associated with the different preferences explored throughout the targeted activities.

CONCLUSION:

The results of this pilot cohort reinforced the hypothesis that oncology care providers have different professional educational needs and preferences that can be potentially anticipated and met with tailored resources. Delivering solutions to meet these needs represents an opportunity for further research and resource development.
Understanding Patients’ Attitudes Toward Cancer Multidisciplinary Meetings: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Devitt Bianca , Philip Jennifer , Singh Madhu , McLachlan Sue-Anne
Published: January 2020

PURPOSE:

Multidisciplinary cancer meetings (MDMs) are an integral component of quality care; however, little research exists regarding patients’ views on this model of care. We aimed to explore and understand the attitudes of patients toward MDMs.

METHODS:

A mixed methods exploratory design was used. Qualitative data from patients with a current or previous diagnosis of cancer were collected and analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Results informed the development of a questionnaire survey that was administered to patients with a current or previous diagnosis of cancer. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS:

Nine patients participated in 3 focus groups, and 152 patients (response rate, 90%) completed the questionnaire. Patients were strongly supportive of MDMs and thought that all patients with cancer should be routinely discussed. More than 90% of surveyed patients believed MDMs were reassuring, meant all treatment modalities were considered, and led to evidence-based treatment recommendations. Patients wanted MDMs to focus on medical treatment planning rather than psychosocial issues, and 87% regarded the meeting as confidential. Patients described a preference for doctor-led decision making, and most (84%) wanted MDM treatment decisions to be discussed with them in a subsequent consultation, with 73% of patients also wanting this in a written format.

CONCLUSION:

Patients strongly endorse MDMs as a means to develop an evidence-based, medical treatment plan agreed to by consensus. They want to be purposely informed of the meeting and its outcomes. Results from this study can help inform future guidelines on the conduct of MDMs.
A note on stochastic volatility model estimation
Authors: Abbara Omar , Zevallos Mauricio
Published: January 2020

The paper assesses the method proposed by Shumway and Stoffer (2006, Chapter 6, Section 10) to estimate the parameters and volatility of stochastic volatility models. First, the paper presents a Monte Carlo evaluation of the parameter estimates considering several distributions for the perturbations in the observation equation. Second, the method is assessed empirically, through backtesting evaluation of VaR forecasts of the S&P 500 time series returns. In both analyses, the paper also evaluates the convenience of using the Fuller transformation.
Relevância da Informação Contábil de Lucro e Fluxo de Caixa: um Estudo com Foco em Ações Ordinárias e Preferenciais
Authors: Bastos Edson Vinicius Pontes , Matos Vinícius da Silva , Macedo Marcelo Álvaro da Silva
Published: January 2020

Objetiva-se verificar se o lucro líquido por ação (LPA) e o fluxo de caixa operacional por ação (FCO_A) apresentam capacidades distintas de explicar o comportamento dos preços das ações ordinárias e preferenciais. Formaram-se três grupos: o primeiro, com ambas as classes acionárias; o segundo, apenas com ações ordinárias; e o terceiro, apenas com preferenciais. Para cada grupo foram aplicados dois modelos de regressões, um usando o LPA e outro usando o FCO_A, tendo em ambos o patrimônio líquido, QTobin e o tamanho como variável de controle. Os modelos foram estimados por OLS e, posteriormente, por GMM como análise de robustez. Os resultados sugerem que o FCO é mais relevante para as ações ordinárias do que para as ações preferenciais. Já a variável LPA é significativa para ambas as classes acionárias, e seus modelos apresentaram maior capacidade explicativa para as ações preferenciais. Logo, têm-se evidências de que o lucro líquido (LL) é mais relevante para as ações preferenciais do que para as ações ordinárias.
Petrological and Geochemical Comparison of Rodingites from Kimi -Evia island with outcrops from adjacent regions
Authors: Karkalis Christos , Magganas Andreas , Koutsovitis Petros
Published: January 2020

The present study is focused on the geochemical and petrological comparison between rodingites from the Kimi region in Central Evia (Greece) with those from East and West Othris, as well as with rodingites from Skyros island. Based upon their whole rock geochemical and petrographical data it is suggested that rocks from Skyros island and Kimi-Evia display similar features. Kimi-Evia and Skyros rodingites are characterized by their highly comparable REE patterns with significant LREE enrichments. This is most likely attributed to the effects of carbonic rich fluids, enhancing the transfer of REE via CO3-2 ligands. The West Othris rodingites display similar MREE and HREE patterns with the least fractionated rodingites from Kimi-Evia and Skyros, whereas the LREE are significantly depleted. The East Othris rodingites differ from all other rodingite occurrences, since they exhibit much lower ΣREE contents. Rodingitization in all studied areas was associated with serpentinization processes and was evolved in several metasomatic stages, in which vesuvianite was formed during the last episodes at relatively low temperatures.
Texture and mineralogical composition of Quaternary terrestrial and marine sediments from Macedonia and Thrace, Greece
Authors: Tsirambides Ananias
Published: January 2020

Clastic sediments collected from land and gulfs of Macedonia and Thrace in Greece are examined on the basis of their texture and mineral composition. All terrestrial samples are coarse-grained and poorly sorted, with angular to sub-angular grains. These are mainly composed of quartz and feldspars, followed by micas, calcite and Fe-Mg minerals. Among the clay minerals illite predominates over smectite and smectite over vermiculite (+chlorite+kaolinite). In addition, the interstratified phases illite/smectite, chlorite/vermiculite, and smectite/vermiculite are present in significant amounts in the clay fraction (<2 μm), signifying the incomplete weathering of the primary minerals. Mixing during transportation, flocculation, differential settling processes and organic matter are the main mechanisms for the distribution of the discharged terrigenous load into the North Aegean Gulfs. All gulf bottom samples are coarse to fine grained and medium sorted, and their grains are angular to sub-angular. Quartz and feldspars predominate. In addition, biogenic calcite, micas and various Fe-Mg minerals exist as primary and/or accessory minerals. Among clay minerals, illite predominates over smectite and smectite over kaolinite (+chlorite+vermiculite). Almost in all gulf sediments the interstratified phase illite/smectite is apparent. The presence of feldspars and Fe-Mg minerals, as well as the high content of clay minerals and the polymodal grain-size distribution with angular to sub-angular grains, signify mineralogical and textural immaturity of all the examined sediments, as well as predominance of mild climatic conditions and thus mild weathering processes. The quartz content in these sediments is usually <70%. Therefore, a sedimentation cycle of these materials has not been completed.
Sb- Bi-Bearing Metallogeny of the SerboMacedonian-Rhodope Metallogenic Belt (SRMB)
Authors: Tsirambides Ananias , Filippidis Anestis
Published: January 2020

Various types of deposits such as carbonate-replacement Pb-Zn-Ag-Au, porphyry Cu-Mo-Au, stratiform volcano-sedimentary, isolated magmatic-hydrothermal and skarns compose the Serbomacedonian-Rhodope Metallogenic Belt (SRMB), which intersects with a NNW-SSE trend the Balkan Peninsula. This arcuate belt is about 500 km long and 130-180 km wide. Sb-Bi alloys and Ag-Cu-Pb-Sb-Bi sulfosalts have been discovered in some metal assemblages in the SRMB. The European Union (EU) is highly dependent on critical and rare metals, such as Sb and Bi, which are very important for a sustainable development. Greece is one of the EU countries with the most potential for supplying the strategic metal Sb in the future, since it hosts a significant ore deposit at Rizana/Lachanas (central Macedonia). Here, the stibnite reserves are 5,000 t (proven) and 50,000-100,000 t (indicated). Both have average Sb=0.3 wt%. In addition, at the same district, there are 1000 t (proven) of wolframite. Another promising Sb-bearing mineral assemblage exists at Alshar (North Macedonia). Here, the stibnite reserves are >20,000 t (indicated) with average Sb=0.5 wt%. At both mineralization districts further investigations are needed to determine the grade and the proven reserves of the critical metal Sb. Until today none encouraging site has been located in the SRMB for remarkable Bi-bearing ore.
Study of the chromite mineralization associated to ophiolites from Tinos Island, Attico-Cycladic Massif
Authors: Kokkaliari Maria , Seymour Karen St. , Tombros Stylianos F. , Koutsopoulou Eleni
Published: January 2020

This paper aims to study the chromitites, as well as their host rocks (meta-peridotites, meta-dunites and serpentinites) of the ophiolite complex of Mount Tsiknias, in Tinos Island. Recognition of their mineralogy and their textural features was carried out through detailed petrographic study. The mineral chemistry analysis contributed to the evaluation of the analyzed chromites, the chemical composition of which provides important information about the petrogenetic evolution of the chromitite ores. The chromites were in equilibrium with boninite melts derived from Supra-Subduction Zone, e.g., a depleted mantle wedge. In the binary classification diagram for spinels, the Tinos samples extend in the fields of Mg-chromite and chromite sensu strictu. In the TiO2 vs Al2O3 diagram, the chromites plot in the field of Supra-Subduction Zone (SSZ) peridotites and partly overlap the field of chromites in Back-Arc Basalts (BABB), however the same samples plot in the field of chromite of boninites. In the Al2O3 vs Cr2O3 diagram both groups of Tinos chromites plot in the field/extremity of “mantle chromites”.
Mineralogical, Petrological and Geochemical Study of the Agios Ioannis Volcanic Rocks, Kamena Vourla Area, Greece
Authors: Kanellopoulos Christos , Vougioukalakis George , Mavrogonatos Constantinos , Megremi Ifigeneia , Iliopoulos Ioannis
Published: January 2020

The Plio-Pleistocene volcanic center of Lichades is located in the Northern Euboean Gulf, at the western extremity of the North Anatolian Fault and it is one of the most neo-tectonically active areas in Greece. Volcanic rocks are exposed in the form of lava flows and/or domes mostly in the small islands (Lichades) offshore Kamena Vourla, as well as in a small outcrop in mainland, namely the Agios Ioannis area. Based on the results of the present study, the Agios Ioannis volcanic rocks are characterized as trachyandesites with high-K calc-alkaline affinities, similar to several volcanic rocks from the South Aegean Volcanic Arc. The petrological and mineral-chemical study reveal that the studied volcanic rocks are characterized by vitrophyric texture and a matrix dominated by glass, numerous randomly-oriented microlites of plagioclase and minor sanidine, clinopyroxene and amphibole. Phenocrysts comprise of plagioclase, olivine, quartz, clinopyroxene and amphibole. Plagioclase composition ranges from andesine to bytownite (An30-An73). Olivine cores are typically Mg-rich, and the rims display elevated FeO content. Clinopyroxenes display a narrow compositional range between augite and diopside, with the latter being more common. Amphiboles, are calcic and their composition ranges from tschermakite to tschermakitic hornblende. Mineralogical and geochemical similarities with other volcanic rocks in Greece such as Lesvos lamproites, may be helpful in understanding the genesis of the studied Agios Ioannis volcanics.
Rapid in-country sequencing of whole virus genomes to inform rabies elimination programmes
Authors: Brunker Kirstyn , Jaswant Gurdeep , Thumbi S.M. , Lushasi Kennedy , Lugelo Ahmed , Czupryna Anna M. , Ade Fred , Wambura Gati , Chuchu Veronicah , Steenson Rachel , Ngeleja Chanasa , Bautista Criselda , Manalo Daria L. , Gomez Ma. Ricci R. , Chu Maria Yna Joyce V. , Miranda Mary Elizabeth , Kamat Maya , Rysava Kristyna , Espineda Jason , Silo Eva Angelica V. , Aringo Ariane Mae , Bernales Rona P. , Adonay Florencio F. , Tildesley Michael J. , Marston Denise A. , Jennings Daisy L. , Fooks Anthony R. , Zhu Wenlong , Meredith Luke W. , Hill Sarah C. , Poplawski Radoslaw , Gifford Robert J. , Singer Joshua B. , Maturi Mathew , Mwatondo Athman , Biek Roman , Hampson Katie
Published: January 2020

Genomic surveillance is an important aspect of contemporary disease management but has yet to be used routinely to monitor endemic disease transmission and control in low- and middle-income countries. Rabies is an almost invariably fatal viral disease that causes a large public health and economic burden in Asia and Africa, despite being entirely vaccine preventable. With policy efforts now directed towards achieving a global goal of zero dog-mediated human rabies deaths by 2030, establishing effective surveillance tools is critical. Genomic data can provide important and unique insights into rabies spread and persistence that can direct control efforts. However, capacity for genomic research in low- and middle-income countries is held back by limited laboratory infrastructure, cost, supply chains and other logistical challenges. Here we present and validate an end-to-end workflow to facilitate affordable whole genome sequencing for rabies surveillance utilising nanopore technology. We used this workflow in Kenya, Tanzania and the Philippines to generate rabies virus genomes in two to three days, reducing costs to approximately £60 per genome. This is over half the cost of metagenomic sequencing previously conducted for Tanzanian samples, which involved exporting samples to the UK and a three- to six-month lag time. Ongoing optimization of workflows are likely to reduce these costs further. We also present tools to support routine whole genome sequencing and interpretation for genomic surveillance. Moreover, combined with training workshops to empower scientists in-country, we show that local sequencing capacity can be readily established and sustainable, negating the common misperception that cutting-edge genomic research can only be conducted in high resource laboratories. More generally, we argue that the capacity to harness genomic data is a game-changer for endemic disease surveillance and should precipitate a new wave of researchers from low- and middle-income countries.
Study protocol for a single-centre observational study of household wellbeing and poverty status following a diagnosis of advanced cancer in Blantyre, Malawi - ‘Safeguarding the Family’ study
Authors: Bates Maya Jane , Muula Adamson , Gordon Stephen B. , Henrion Marc Y.R. , Tomeny Ewan , MacPherson Peter , Squire Bertel , Niessen Louis
Published: January 2020

Background: Many households in low-and-middle income countries face the additional burden of crippling out-of-pocket expenditure when faced with a diagnosis of life-limiting illness. Available evidence suggests that receipt of palliative care supports cost-savings for cancer-affected households. This study will explore the relationship between receipt of palliative care, total household out-of-pocket expenditure on health and wellbeing following a first-time diagnosis of advanced cancer at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, Malawi.

Protocol: Patients and their primary family caregivers will be recruited at the time of cancer diagnosis.  Data on healthcare utilisation, related costs, coping strategies and wellbeing will be gathered using new and existing questionnaires (the Patient-and-Carer Cancer Cost Survey, EQ-5D-3L and the Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Score). Surveys will be repeated at one, three and six months after diagnosis. In the event of the patient’s death, a brief five-item questionnaire on funeral costs will be administered to caregivers not less than two weeks following the date of death. Descriptive and Poisson regression analyses will assess the relationship between exposure to palliative care and total household expenditure from baseline to six months. A sample size of 138 households has been calculated in order to detect a medium effect (as determined by Cohen’s f2=0.15) of receipt of palliative care in a regression model for change in total household out-of-pocket expenditure as a proportion of annual household income.

Ethics and dissemination: The study has received ethical approval. Results will be reported using STROBE guidelines and disseminated through scientific meetings, open access publications and a national stakeholder meeting. 

Conclusions: This study will provide data on expenditure for healthcare by households affected by cancer in Malawi. We also explore whether receipt of palliative care is associated with a reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure at household level.
Agronomic performance and drought tolerance level of sweet potato hybrids grown in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Authors: MAU YOSEP S. , NDIWA ANTONIUS S.S. , MARKUS JENNY E.R. , ARSA I G.B. ADWITA
Published: January 2020

Abstract. Mau YS, Ndiwa ASS, Markus JER, Arsa IGBA. 2019. Agronomic performance and drought tolerance level of sweet potato hybrids grown in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 20: 2187-2196. This study was conducted to evaluate agronomic performance and to assess drought tolerance level of purple and orange-fleshed F1 sweet potato hybrids in dryland during dry season in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. The study was carried out in Integrated Archipelagic Dryland Field Laboratory of Universitas Nusa Cendana, Kupang, from May to October 2018. Two sets of experiment were conducted, the first was for evaluation of agronomic performance, and the second was for evaluation of drought tolerance of the sweet potato genotypes. The first experiment assessed the agronomic performance of 20 sweet potato genotypes in a Randomized Block Design. The second experiment employed a Split Plot Design consisted of irrigation level as the main plot and sweet potato genotypes as subplot treatments. The main plot consisted of no stress (normal) and water-stressed conditions while the sub-plot comprised of 20 genotypes of the sweet potato. The observed agronomic performance variables included growth and yield parameters. Tuber yields in no stress and water-stressed conditions were observed and used for assessment of drought tolerance. The results showed that, in the agronomic performance experiment, the sweet potato genotypes differed significantly in all the observed agronomic performance variables including growth, yield contributing, and yield variables. UNC2016.Cil/JPV.01 and UNC2016.Cil/JPV.05 were short maturing genotypes with only about 90 days to harvesting while the rest of the genotypes were harvested in 120 to 150 days. The genotypes were also significantly varied in tuber yield; the highest was observed in UNC2016.JPV/KDL.11 (43.38 t ha-1). In the drought tolerance evaluation experiment, tuber yields in no stress and stressed condition were, respectively, 23.42 t ha-1 and 7.08 t ha-1. Six F1 hybrids were classified and selected as drought-tolerant genotypes with high yielding performance in both no stress and water-stressed conditions.
The diversity and ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in the southern slope of Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: MAIZER SAID NAHDI  , ARDYAN PRAMUDYA KURNIAWAN
Published: January 2020

Abstract. Nahdi MS, Kurniawan AP. 2019. The diversity and ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in the southern slope of Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 20: 2279-2287. Medicinal plants have been widely used by local communities in Indonesia due to its effectiveness as medicine and its low cost. In addition, the scientific and technological development of medicinal plants has been developed rapidly. This research aims to conduct inventory of medicinal plants recorded in the ecosystem of the southern slope of Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta and to reveal the local knowledge on their uses and traditional healing method applied. We used a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. The data of local knowledge on medicinal plants and traditional medical practices when using them were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interview with local informants selected through purposive and snowball sampling. The results showed that the abundance of medicinal plant species at the study area was very high during the rainy season, while during the dry season, some of the plant species were found in the yard and open land. A total of 82 species from 40 families were identified as medicinal plants and used by the community through various processing and for various medical treatments. The information was inherited from previous generations through counseling and training. The most favorable way to use medicinal plants was by consuming the leaf directly. Among all identified medicinal plants, betel leaves (Piper betle L) had the highest importance value (43.6%), followed by turmeric (Curcuma longa L) (38.5%), and soursop (Annona muricata L) (33.3%). Kelor (Moringa pterygosperma, Gaertn) had the most significant usage value (0,6), followed by lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf) and ginger (Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb) with the same value (0.3). The medicinal plants had also co-benefits including to encourage communication as well as to building relationship among community members.