bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells restore the ovarian metabolome and rescue premature ovarian insufficiency in mice
Authors: Zhao Yan , Ma Jiao , Yi Peiye , Wu Jun , Zhao Feiyan , Tu Wan , Liu Wenjing , Li Tianda , Deng Yan , Hao Jie , Wang Hongmei , Yan Long
Published: November 2020

Background

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an ovarian dysfunction that seriously affects a woman’s physiological health and reproduction. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation offers a promising treatment option for ovarian restoration in rodent POI models. However, the efficacy and mechanism of it remain unclear.

Methods

POI mice model was generated by cyclophosphamide and busulfan, followed with the treatment of tail-vein injection of the human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs). Maternal physiological changes and offspring behavior were detected. To reveal the pathogenesis and therapeutic mechanisms of POI, we first compared the metabolite profiles of healthy and POI ovarian tissues using untargeted metabolomics analyses. After stem cell therapy, we then collected the ovaries from control, POI, and hUCMSC-treated POI groups for lipid metabolomics and pseudotargeted metabolomics analysis.

Results

Our results revealed remarkable changes of multiple metabolites, especially lipids, in ovarian tissues after POI generation. Following the transplantation of clinical-grade hUCMSCs, POI mice exhibited significant improvements in body weight, sex hormone levels, estrous cycles, and reproductive capacity. Lipid metabolomics and pseudotargeted metabolomics analyses for the ovaries showed that the metabolite levels in the POI group, mainly lipids, glycerophospholipids, steroids, and amino acids changed significantly compared with the controls’, and most of them returned to near-healthy levels after receiving hUCMSC treatment. Meanwhile, we also observed an increase of monosaccharide levels in the ovaries from POI mice and a decrease after stem cell treatment.

Conclusions

hUCMSCs restore ovarian function through activating the PI3K pathway by promoting the level of free amino acids, consequently improving lipid metabolism and reducing the concentration of monosaccharides. These findings provide potential targets for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of POI.
Too sweet: cheminformatics for deglycosylation in natural products
Authors: Schaub Jonas , Zielesny Achim , Steinbeck Christoph , Sorokina Maria
Published: November 2020

Sugar units in natural products are pharmacokinetically important but often redundant and therefore obstructing the study of the structure and function of the aglycon. Therefore, it is recommended to remove the sugars before a theoretical or experimental study of a molecule. Deglycogenases, enzymes that specialized in sugar removal from small molecules, are often used in laboratories to perform this task. However, there is no standardized computational procedure to perform this task in silico. In this work, we present a systematic approach for in silico removal of ring and linear sugars from molecular structures. Particular attention is given to molecules of biological origin and to their structural specificities. This approach is made available in two forms, through a free and open web application and as standalone open-source software.
Multi-task offloading scheme for UAV-enabled fog computing networks
Authors: Li Xujie , Zhou Lingjie , Sun Ying , Ulziinyam Buyankhishig
Published: November 2020

In unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-enabled fog computing networks, how to efficiently offload multiple tasks to the computing nodes is a challenging combinatorial optimization problem. In this paper, in order to optimize the total delay for the UAV-enabled fog computing networks, a simple scheduling algorithm and a multi-task offloading scheme based on fireworks algorithm (FWA) are proposed. First, the system model of multiple tasks offloading in UAV-enabled fog computing networks is described in detail. Then, a simple scheduling algorithm is proposed to optimize the delay of the tasks allocated to a single node. Based on the scheduling algorithm, a multi-task offloading scheme for all tasks and all computing nodes is presented. Finally, simulation results show that the performance of a proposed scheduling algorithm and offloading strategy outperforms than that of a genetic algorithm and a random algorithm. This result can provide an effective optimization for multi-task offloading in UAV-enabled fog computing networks.
Analgesic medicines for adults with low back pain: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors:   The ANiMALIA investigators, Wewege Michael A. , Bagg Matthew K. , Jones Matthew D. , McAuley James H.
Published: November 2020

Background

There is limited evidence for the comparative effectiveness of analgesic medicines for adults with low back pain. This systematic review and network meta-analysis aims to determine the analgesic effect, safety, acceptability, effect on function, and relative rank according to analgesic effect, safety, acceptability, and effect on function of a single course of [an] analgesic medicine(s) or combination of these medicines for people with low back pain.

Methods

We will include published and unpublished randomised trials written in any language that compare an analgesic medicine to either another medicine, placebo/sham, or no intervention in adults with low back pain, grouped according to pain duration: acute (fewer than 6 weeks), sub-acute (6 to 12 weeks), and chronic (greater than 12 weeks). The co-primary outcomes are pain intensity following treatment and safety (adverse events). The secondary outcomes are function and acceptability (all-cause dropouts). We will perform a network meta-analysis to compare and rank analgesic medicines. We will form judgements of confidence in the results using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA) methodology.

Discussion

This network meta-analysis will establish which medicine, or combination of medicines, is most effective for reducing pain and safest for adults with low back pain.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42019145257
Guidance for overviews of reviews continues to accumulate, but important challenges remain: a scoping review
Authors: Gates Michelle , Gates Allison , Guitard Samantha , Pollock Michelle , Hartling Lisa
Published: November 2020

Background

Overviews of reviews (overviews) provide an invaluable resource for healthcare decision-making by combining large volumes of systematic review (SR) data into a single synthesis. The production of high-quality overviews hinges on the availability of practical evidence-based guidance for conduct and reporting.

Objectives

Within the broad purpose of informing the development of a reporting guideline for overviews, we aimed to provide an up-to-date map of existing guidance related to the conduct of overviews, and to identify common challenges that authors face when undertaking overviews.

Methods

We updated a scoping review published in 2016 using the search methods that had produced the highest yield: ongoing reference tracking (2014 to March 2020 in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar), hand-searching conference proceedings and websites, and contacting authors of published overviews. Using a qualitative meta-summary approach, one reviewer extracted, organized, and summarized the guidance and challenges presented within the included documents. A second reviewer verified the data and synthesis.

Results

We located 28 new guidance documents, for a total of 77 documents produced by 34 research groups. The new guidance helps to resolve some earlier identified challenges in the production of overviews. Important developments include strengthened guidance on handling primary study overlap at the study selection and analysis stages. Despite marked progress, several areas continue to be hampered by inconsistent or lacking guidance. There is ongoing debate about whether, when, and how supplemental primary studies should be included in overviews. Guidance remains scant on how to extract and use appraisals of quality of the primary studies within the included SRs and how to adapt GRADE methodology to overviews. The challenges that overview authors face are often related to the above-described steps in the process where evidence-based guidance is lacking or conflicting.

Conclusion

The rising popularity of overviews has been accompanied by a steady accumulation of new, and sometimes conflicting, guidance. While recent guidance has helped to address some of the challenges that overview authors face, areas of uncertainty remain. Practical tools supported by empirical evidence are needed to assist authors with the many methodological decision points that are encountered in the production of overviews.
A QuESt for speed: rapid qualitative evidence syntheses as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Biesty Linda , Meskell Pauline , Glenton Claire , Delaney Hannah , Smalle Mike , Booth Andrew , Chan Xin Hui S. , Devane Declan , Houghton Catherine
Published: November 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a sense of urgency in the research community in their bid to contribute to the evidence required for healthcare policy decisions. With such urgency, researchers experience methodological challenges to maintain the rigour and transparency of their work. With this in mind, we offer reflections on our recent experience of undertaking a rapid Cochrane qualitative evidence synthesis (QES).

Methods

This process paper, using a reflexive approach, describes a rapid QES prepared during, and in response to, the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

This paper reports the methodological decisions we made and the process we undertook. We place our decisions in the context of guidance offered in relation to rapid reviews and previously conducted QESs. We highlight some of the challenges we encountered in finding the balance between the time needed for thoughtfulness and comprehensiveness whilst providing a rapid response to an urgent request for evidence.

Conclusion

The need for more guidance on rapid QES remains, but such guidance needs to be based on actual worked examples and case studies. This paper and the reflections offered may provide a useful framework for others to use and further develop.
A meta-analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on liver dysfunction
Authors: Wu Zeng-hong , Yang Dong‑liang
Published: November 2020

Background

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is leading to a worldwide pandemic. Except representative manifestation of pneumonia and acute respiratory symptoms, COVID-19 patients have also shown different levels of liver injury or liver dysfunction. The aim of our study was to explore the probable clinical severity and mortality of COVID-19 patients and their liver dysfunction.

Method

A combination of computer and manual retrieval was used to search in Medline through PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. Review Manager 5.3 software was used to examine the heterogeneity among the studies and to calculate the combined effect value (OR, 95CI). Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias test were also performed.

Results

We found a significant connection between liver dysfunction and mortality of COVID-19 patients with a pooled OR of 1.98 (95% CI 1.39–2.82; P = 0.0002). There was a significant association between AST and severity of COVID-19 with a pooled OR of 4.48 (95% CI 3.24–7.21; P < 0.001), and a pooled WMD of 3.35 (95% CI, 2.07 to 4.64; P < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant difference between TBIL and severity of COVID-19, with a pooled OR of 1.91 (95% CI 1.40–2.60; P < 0.001), and with a pooled WMD of 1.18 (95% CI, 0.78 to 1.58; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The mortality and severity of COVID-19 patients are significantly associated with liver dysfunction. The non-survivors and severe COVID-19 patients have elevated serum AST levels than the survivors and non-severe COVID-19 patients. The results of this study form a basis for better clinical liver management of patients with COVID-19.
A framework for estimating crime location choice based on awareness space
Authors: Curtis-Ham Sophie , Bernasco Wim , Medvedev Oleg N. , Polaschek Devon
Published: November 2020

This paper extends Crime Pattern Theory, proposing a theoretical framework which aims to explain how offenders’ previous routine activity locations influence their future offence locations. The framework draws on studies of individual level crime location choice and location choice in non-criminal contexts, to identify attributes of prior activities associated with the selection of the location for future crime. We group these attributes into two proposed mechanisms: reliability and relevance. Offenders are more likely to commit crime where they have reliable knowledge that is relevant to the particular crime. The perceived reliability of offenders’ knowledge about a potential crime location is affected by the frequency, recency and duration of their prior activities in that location. Relevance reflects knowledge of a potential crime location’s crime opportunities and is affected by the type of behaviour, type of location and timing of prior activities in that location. We apply the framework to generate testable hypotheses to guide future studies of crime location choice and suggest directions for further theoretical and empirical work. Understanding crime location choice using this framework could also help inform policing investigations and crime prevention strategies.
Probing time-dependent afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation following the 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake based on the 3-D finite-element model
Authors: Su Lina , Shi Fuqiang , Gan Weijun , Su Xiaoning , Yan Junyi
Published: November 2020

We analyzed daily displacement time series from 34 continuous GPS stations in Nepal and 5 continuous GPS stations in South Tibet, China, and extracted the first 4.8 years of postseismic motion after the 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake. With the longer duration GPS observations, we find that postseismic displacements mainly exhibit southward and uplift motion. To study the postseismic afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation, we built a 3-D spherical finite-element model (FEM) with heterogeneous material properties and surface topography across the Himalayan range, accounting for the strong variations in material properties and surface elevation along the central Himalayan arc. On the basis of the FEM, we reveal that the predicted viscoelastic relaxation of cm level moves southward to the north of the Gorkha earthquake rupture, but in an opposite direction to the observed postseismic deformation in the south; the postseismic deformation excluding viscoelastic relaxation is well explained by afterslip downdip of the coseismic rupture. The afterslip is dominant during 4.8 years after the 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake; the contribution by the viscoelastic relaxation gradually increases slightly. The lack of slip on a shallow portion and western segment of the MHT during and after the 2015 Gorkha earthquake implies continued seismic hazard in the future.
Two-step seismic noise reduction caused by COVID-19 induced reduction in social activity in metropolitan Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Yabe Suguru , Imanishi Kazutoshi , Nishida Kiwamu
Published: November 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic that started at the end of 2019 forced populations around the world to reduce social and economic activities; it is believed that this can prevent the spread of the disease. In this paper, we report an analysis of the seismic noise during such an induced social activity reduction in the Tokyo metropolitan area, Japan. Using seismic data obtained from 18 stations in the Metropolitan Seismic Observation Network (MeSO-net), a two-step seismic noise reduction was observed during the timeline of COVID-19 in Tokyo. The first noise reduction occurred at the beginning of March 2020 in the frequency band of 20–40 Hz. This corresponded with the request by the Prime Minister of Japan for a nationwide shutdown of schools. Although social activity was not reduced significantly at this juncture, local reduction of seismic wave excitation in the high-frequency band, 20–40 Hz, was recorded at some MeSO-net stations located in school properties. The second reduction of seismic noise occurred at the end of March to the beginning of April 2020 in a wider frequency band including lower frequency bands of 1–20 Hz. This timing corresponds to when the Governors of the Tokyo metropolitan area requested citizens to stay home and when the state of emergency was declared for the Tokyo metropolitan area by the government, respectively. Since then, the estimated population at train stations abruptly dropped, which suggests that social activity was severely reduced. Such large-scale changes in social activity affect the seismic noise level in low-frequency bands. The seismic noise level started to increase from the middle of May correlating with increase in population at the train stations. This suggests that social activity restarted even before the state of emergency was lifted at the end of May. The two-step seismic noise reduction observed in this study has not been reported in other cities around the world. Unexpected reduction of social activity due to COVID-19 provided a rare opportunity to investigate the characteristics of seismic noise caused by human activities.
An ultra-low magnetic field thermal demagnetizer for high-precision paleomagnetism
Authors: Qin Huafeng , Zhao Xiang , Liu Shuangchi , Paterson Greig A. , Jiang Zhaoxia , Cai Shuhui , Li Jinhua , Liu Qingsong , Zhu Rixiang
Published: November 2020

Thermal demagnetization furnaces are widely used paleomagnetic facilities for progressive removal of naturally acquired magnetic remanence or the imparting of well-controlled laboratory magnetization. An ideal thermal demagnetizer should maintain “zero” magnetic field in the sample chamber during thermal treatments. However, magnetic field noises, including the residual magnetic fields of the construction material and the induced fields caused by the alternating current (AC) in the heating element are always present, which can contaminate the paleomagnetic results at the elevated temperatures or especially for the magnetically weak samples. Here, we designed a new structure of heating wire named “straight core solenoid” to develop a new demagnetization furnace with ultra-low magnetic field noise. Simulation and practical measurements show that the heating current magnetic field can be greatly reduced by using the new technology. Thermal demagnetization experiments demonstrate that the new demagnetizer can yield low noise results even for weakly magnetic samples.
High-quality brain perfusion SPECT images may be achieved with a high-speed recording using 360° CZT camera
Authors: Bordonne Manon , Chawki Mohammad B. , Marie Pierre-Yves , Zaragori Timothée , Roch Véronique , Grignon Rachel , Imbert Laetitia , Verger Antoine
Published: November 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare brain perfusion SPECT obtained from a 360° CZT and a conventional Anger camera.

Methods

The 360° CZT camera utilizing a brain configuration, with 12 detectors surrounding the head, was compared to a 2-head Anger camera for count sensitivity and image quality on 30-min SPECT recordings from a brain phantom and from 99mTc-HMPAO brain perfusion in 2 groups of 21 patients investigated with the CZT and Anger cameras, respectively. Image reconstruction was adjusted according to image contrast for each camera.

Results

The CZT camera provided more than 2-fold increase in count sensitivity, as compared with the Anger camera, as well as (1) lower sharpness indexes, giving evidence of higher spatial resolution, for both peripheral/central brain structures, with respective median values of 5.2%/3.7% versus 2.4%/1.9% for CZT and Anger camera respectively in patients (p < 0.01), and 8.0%/6.9% versus 6.2%/3.7% on phantom; and (2) higher gray/white matter contrast on peripheral/central structures, with respective ratio median values of 1.56/1.35 versus 1.11/1.20 for CZT and Anger camera respectively in patients (p < 0.05), and 2.57/2.17 versus 1.40/1.12 on phantom; and (3) no change in noise level. Image quality, scored visually by experienced physicians, was also significantly higher on CZT than on the Anger camera (+ 80%, p < 0.01), and all these results were unchanged on the CZT images obtained with only a 15 min recording time.

Conclusion

The 360° CZT camera provides brain perfusion images of much higher quality than a conventional Anger camera, even with high-speed recordings, thus demonstrating the potential for repositioning brain perfusion SPECT to the forefront of brain imaging.
A study protocol for a predictive algorithm to assess population-based premature mortality risk: Premature Mortality Population Risk Tool (PreMPoRT)
Authors: Rosella Laura C. , O’Neill Meghan , Fisher Stacey , Hurst Mackenzie , Diemert Lori , Kornas Kathy , Hong Andy , Manuel Douglas G.
Published: November 2020

Background

Premature mortality is an important population health indicator used to assess health system functioning and to identify areas in need of health system intervention. Predicting the future incidence of premature mortality in the population can facilitate initiatives that promote equitable health policies and effective delivery of public health services. This study protocol proposes the development and validation of the Premature Mortality Risk Prediction Tool (PreMPoRT) that will predict the incidence of premature mortality using large population-based community health surveys and multivariable modeling approaches.

Methods

PreMPoRT will be developed and validated using various training, validation, and test data sets generated from the six cycles of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) linked to the Canadian Vital Statistics Database from 2000 to 2017. Population-level risk factor information on demographic characteristics, health behaviors, area level measures, and other health-related factors will be used to develop PreMPoRT and to predict the incidence of premature mortality, defined as death prior to age 75, over a 5-year period. Sex-specific Weibull accelerated failure time models will be developed using a Canadian provincial derivation cohort consisting of approximately 500,000 individuals, with approximately equal proportion of males and females, and about 12,000 events of premature mortality. External validation will be performed using separate linked files (CCHS cycles 2007–2008, 2009–2010, and 2011–2012) from the development cohort (CCHS cycles 2000–2001, 2003–2004, and 2005–2006) to check the robustness of the prediction model. Measures of overall predictive performance (e.g., Nagelkerke’s R2), calibration (e.g., calibration plots), and discrimination (e.g., Harrell’s concordance statistic) will be assessed, including calibration within defined subgroups of importance to knowledge users and policymakers.

Discussion

Using routinely collected risk factor information, we anticipate that PreMPoRT will produce population-based estimates of premature mortality and will be used to inform population strategies for prevention.
Management of root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita of eggplant using some growth-promoting rhizobacteria and chitosan under greenhouse conditions
Authors: Elkelany Usama Samy , El-Mougy Nehal Samy , Abdel-Kader Mokhtar Mohamed
Published: November 2020

Background

Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is one of the most popular vegetable crops in Egypt. It is affected by a wide range of pests; prominent among them is root-knot nematode (RKN) Meloidogyne spp. which constitutes a major group of plant-parasitic nematodes causing great economic losses worldwide especially in Egypt.

Main body

The present investigation was performed under greenhouse conditions to evaluate the potentials of 3 growth-promoting bacteria, Azospirilum brasilense, Azotobacter chroococcum, and Bacillus subtilis, as well as chitosan for the control of the nematode Meloidogyne incognita causes root-knot disease of eggplant cv. Baladi. All treatments reduced (p ≤ 0.05) the nematode population in soil and roots as well as enhanced the plant growth parameters of eggplant remarkably than the control. The applied treatments varied in their efficacy against the plant nematode infection in correspondence to the time of application. The recorded results demonstrated that maximum reduction in J2 in soil, egg mass/root, and eggs/egg masses were obtained by treating the soil with Bacillus subtilis followed by Azospirilum brasilense and Azotobacter chroococcum. Also, chitosan resulted in high reduction in root galls compared to control treatment.

Conclusion

The use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, Azospirilum brasilense, Azotobacter chroococcum, Bacillus subtilis, and chitosan achieved efficient control to Meloidogyne incognita and consequently increase eggplant growth parameters under greenhouse conditions. The present results suggested introducing such rhizobacteria in integrated nematode management program.
Short-duration chemoprophylaxis might reduce incidence of deep vein thrombosis in Asian patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Htet Kway Swar , Tan Xin Yang , Wang Xinyu , Wang Wilson , Chua Weiliang
Published: November 2020

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious complication that may occur after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), leading to the recommendation of routine chemoprophylaxis by international guidelines. This study aims to determine if short-duration chemoprophylaxis after TKA reduces the incidence of VTE in an Asian population.

Methods

A retrospective study of 316 patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2013 was conducted. All patients received mechanical prophylaxis. One hundred seventeen patients (37%) received additional chemoprophylaxis, whereas 199 patients (63%) did not. A Doppler ultrasound (DUS) of both lower limbs was conducted for all patients within 6 days after surgery (median = 3 days) to assess for both proximal and distal DVT. Chemoprophylaxis in the form of enoxaparin (low molecular weight heparin; LMWH), aspirin, or heparin was administered until patients had a normal DUS, for a median duration of 4 days. Patients were followed up clinically for a minimum of 6 months to monitor for delayed or recurrent VTE and at least 2 years for patient-reported outcome measures.

Results

Overall, 24 patients (7.59%) developed deep vein thrombosis (DVT): three proximal and 21 distal DVTs. Twenty-three of the 24 patients were asymptomatic. Twenty of 199 patients (10.05%) with only mechanical prophylaxis developed DVT, whereas four of 117 patients (3.42%) with additional chemoprophylaxis developed DVT. Multivariate analysis showed that chemoprophylaxis use was associated with reduced incidence of DVT (odds ratio = 0.19, p value = 0.011). Other factors associated with increased DVT incidence include female gender (odds ratio = 5.45, p value = 0.034), positive history of cancer (odds ratio = 5.14, p value = 0.044), and increased length of stay in hospital (odds ratio = 1.19, p value < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study has shown that despite the low incidence of DVT in Asian patients undergoing TKA, short-duration chemoprophylaxis might be effective in reducing the incidence of DVT. However, most DVTs observed in our study were distal and may be of limited clinical significance. Further studies are needed to investigate the impact of chemoprophylaxis use on the incidence of PE and overall mortality rates among Asian patients.
Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and revision total knee arthroplasty have a lower risk of venous thromboembolism disease at 30 days than primary total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Schneider Andrew M. , Schmitt Daniel R. , Brown Nicholas M.
Published: November 2020

Background

While multiple studies have demonstrated a lower venous thromboembolism disease (VTED) risk for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) compared to primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA), recent reports have shown that revision TKA also had a lower VTED risk compared to primary TKA, an unexpected finding because of its theoretical increased risk. Given the paucity of up-to-date comparative studies, our goal was to perform a high-powered VTED risk comparison study of UKA and revision TKA to primary TKA using recent data.

Methods

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried between 2011 and 2018, and we identified 213,234 patients for inclusion: 191,810 primary TKA, 9294 UKA, and 12,130 revision TKA. Demographics, medical comorbidities, and possible VTE risk factors were collected. Thirty-day outcomes, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and all-cause VTED were compared between knee arthroplasty types.

Results

On multivariate analysis, UKA was significantly associated with lower rates of DVT [OR 0.44 (0.31–0.61); P < 0.001], PE [OR 0.42 (0.28–0.65); P < 0.001], and all-cause VTED [OR 0.42 (0.32–0.55); P < 0.001] when compared to primary TKA. Revision TKA was significantly associated with lower rates of PE [OR 0.62 (0.47–0.83); P = 0.002], and all-cause VTED [OR 0.82 (0.70–0.98); P = 0.029] when compared to primary TKA.

Conclusions

Utilizing recent data from a nationwide patient cohort and controlling for confounding variables, our results showed that both revision TKA and UKA had a lower risk of VTED compared to primary TKA, corroborating the results of recent investigations. Additional prospective investigations are needed to explain this unexpected result.
Addressing the challenges and relational aspects of index-linked HIV testing for children and adolescents: insights from the B-GAP study in Zimbabwe
Authors: Dziva Chikwari Chido , Bernays Sarah , Dringus Stefanie , Simms Victoria , Weiss Helen A. , Sibanda Edwin , Kranzer Katharina , Ncube Gertrude , Chikodzore Rudo , Webb Karen , Chirimambowa Trevor , Sithole Kenny , Ndondo Nonhlanhla , Apollo Tsitsi , Mutseta Miriam , Ferrand Rashida A.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Index-linked HIV testing, targeted at sexual contacts or children of individuals with HIV, may improve yield and efficiency. The B-GAP study evaluated index-linked testing approaches in health facility and community-based settings. This paper reports on a qualitative study to understand factors that affect uptake of index-linked HIV testing for children and adolescents.

Methods

We conducted four focus group discussions (FGDs) with caregivers who had their children tested through B-GAP and one FGD with providers who offered index-linked HIV testing to indexes. We aimed to understand enabling and inhibiting factors in the decision-making process. Translated and transcribed transcripts were read for familiarisation. Following initial coding, analytical memos were written to identify emerging key themes across the data.

Results

Our findings showed there was inadequate emphasis on paediatric HIV in routine care which had a negative impact on subsequent uptake of testing for children. Once the decision to test had been made, access to facilities was sometimes challenging and alleviated by community-based testing. A key finding was that HIV testing is not a discrete event but a process that was influenced by relationships with other family members and children themselves. These relationships raised complex issues that could prevent or delay the testing process.

Conclusion

There is a need to improve messaging on the importance of HIV testing for children and adolescents and to provide support to caregivers and their families in order to improve testing uptake. Addressing access barriers through the provision of community-based testing and implementing a family-centred approach can optimise index-linked testing.
Disambiguation of psychotherapy: a search for meaning
Authors: Castelpietra Giulio , Simon Judit , Gutiérrez-Colosía Mencía Ruiz , Rosenberg Sebastian , Salvador-Carulla Luis
Published: November 2020

This analysis identifies the significant problem of ambiguity, variation and vagueness in relation to the intervention described as ‘psychotherapy’. Its purpose is to raise international awareness of this problem and alternative solutions.
Wearable Respiratory Monitoring and Feedback for Chronic Pain in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Alberts Nicole M. , Leisenring Wendy M. , Flynn Jessica S. , Whitton Jillian , Gibson Todd M. , Jibb Lindsay , McDonald Aaron , Ford James , Moraveji Neema , Dear Blake F. , Krull Kevin R. , Robison Leslie L. , Stinson Jennifer N. , Armstrong Gregory T.
Published: November 2020

PURPOSE

Approximately 40% of childhood cancer survivors experience chronic pain, with many also reporting pain-related disability. Given associations established in the general population among respiration, anxiety, and pain, continuous tracking and feedback of respiration may help survivors manage pain.

METHODS

A feasibility, nonblinded, randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing wearable respiratory monitoring with a control group examined feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy among survivors of childhood cancer with chronic pain who were ≥ 18 years of age, able to speak and read English, lived in the United States, and had access to a smartphone and the Internet. The primary outcomes were pain interference, pain severity, anxiety, negative affect, and perceived stress. The intervention group (n = 32) received a wearable respiratory monitor, used the device, and completed an in-application breathing exercise daily for 30 days. The control group (n = 33) received psychoeducation after completion of the study.

RESULTS

Almost all participants in the intervention group (n = 31 of 32) and control group (n = 32 of 33) completed the study. Of those who completed the intervention, 90.3% wore the device for ≥ 50% of the trial. Posttreatment improvement for negative affect (Cohen d = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.09 to 1.10) was significantly greater in the intervention group compared with the control group. A follow-up study (n = 24) examined acceptability and feasibility of a second-generation device among those who completed the RCT. Most survivors (81.0%) wore the device daily during the trial and 85.7% reported satisfaction with the device and the application.

CONCLUSION

The results of this pilot study support the acceptability and feasibility of wearable respiratory monitoring among survivors of childhood cancer. Larger randomized trials are needed to assess efficacy and maintenance of this intervention for chronic pain.
Informing epidemic (research) responses in a timely fashion by knowledge management - a Zika virus use case
Authors: Bauch Angela , Pellet Johann , Schleicher Tina , Yu Xiao , Gelemanović Andrea , Cristella Cosimo , Fraaij Pieter L. , Polasek Ozren , Auffray Charles , Maier Dieter , Koopmans Marion , de Jong Menno D.
Published: November 2020

The response of pathophysiological research to emerging epidemics often occurs after the epidemic and, as a consequence, has little to no impact on improving patient outcomes or on developing high-quality evidence to inform clinical management strategies during the epidemic. Rapid and informed guidance of epidemic (research) responses to severe infectious disease outbreaks requires quick compilation and integration of existing pathophysiological knowledge. As a case study we chose the Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak that started in 2015 to develop a proof-of-concept knowledge repository. To extract data from available sources and build a computationally tractable and comprehensive molecular interaction map we applied generic knowledge management software for literature mining, expert knowledge curation, data integration, reporting and visualisation. A multi-disciplinary team of experts, including clinicians, virologists, bioinformaticians and knowledge management specialists, followed a pre-defined workflow for rapid integration and evaluation of available evidence. While conventional approaches usually require months to comb through the existing literature, the initial ZIKV KnowledgeBase (ZIKA KB) was completed within a few weeks. Recently we updated the ZIKA KB with additional curated data from the large amount of literature published since 2016 and made it publicly available through a web interface together with a step-by-step guide to ensure reproducibility of the described use case. In addition, a detailed online user manual is provided to enable the ZIKV research community to generate hypotheses, share knowledge, identify knowledge gaps, and interactively explore and interpret data. A workflow for rapid response during outbreaks was generated, validated and refined and is also made available. The process described here can be used for timely structuring of pathophysiological knowledge for future threats. The resulting structured biological knowledge is a helpful tool for computational data analysis and generation of predictive models and opens new avenues for infectious disease research.
Locomotor mechanism of Haplopelma hainanum based on Energy conservation analysis
Authors: Hao Xin , Ma Wenxing , Liu Chunbao , Qian Zhihui , Ren Luquan , Ren Lei
Published: November 2020

Spiders use their special hydraulic system to achieve superior locomotor performance and high drive efficiency. To evaluate the variation in hydraulic joint angles and energy conversion during the hydraulic drive of spiders, kinematic data of Haplopelma hainanum were collected through a 3D motion capture and synchronization analysis system. Complete stride datasets in the speed range of 0.027 to 0.691 m s−1 were analyzed. Taking the tibia–metatarsu joint as an example, it was found that speed did not affect the angle variation range of the hydraulic joint. Based on the analysis of locomotor mechanics, a bouncing gait was mainly used by H. hainanum during terrestrial locomotion and their locomotor mechanism did not change with increasing speed. Because of the spiders’ hydraulic system, the mass-specific power per unit weight required to move the center of mass increased exponentially with increasing speed. The bouncing gait and the hydraulic system contributed to the lower transport cost at low speed, while the hydraulic system greatly increased the transport cost at high speed. The results of this study could provide a reference for the design of high-efficiency driving hydraulic systems of spider-like robots.
Morphogenesis is transcriptionally coupled to neurogenesis during peripheral olfactory organ development
Authors: Aguillon Raphaël , Madelaine Romain , Aguirrebengoa Marion , Guturu Harendra , Link Sandra , Dufourcq Pascale , Lecaudey Virginie , Bejerano Gill , Blader Patrick , Batut Julie
Published: November 2020

Sense organs acquire their distinctive shapes concomitantly with the differentiation of sensory cells and neurons necessary for their function. Although our understanding of the mechanisms controlling morphogenesis and neurogenesis in these structures has grown, how these processes are coordinated remains largely unexplored. Neurogenesis in the zebrafish olfactory epithelium requires the bHLH proneural transcription factor Neurogenin 1 (Neurog1). To address whether Neurog1 also controls morphogenesis, we analysed the migratory behaviour of early olfactory neural progenitors in neurog1 mutant embryos. Our results indicate that the oriented movements of these progenitors are disrupted in this context. Morphogenesis is similarly affected by mutations in the chemokine receptor gene, cxcr4b, suggesting it is a potential Neurog1 target gene. We find that Neurog1 directly regulates cxcr4b through an E-box cluster located just upstream of the cxcr4b transcription start site. Our results suggest that proneural transcription factors, such as Neurog1, directly couple distinct aspects of nervous system development.
Recovery from Fatigue after Cycling Time Trials in Elite Endurance Athletes
Authors: Ducrocq Guillaume P. , Hureau Thomas J. , Bøgseth Tina , Meste Olivier , Blain Gregory M.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

We determined the recovery from neuromuscular fatigue in six professional (PRO) and seven moderately trained (MOD) cyclists after repeated cycling time trials of various intensities/durations.

Method

Participants performed two 1-min (1minTT) or two 10-min (10minTT) self-paced cycling time trials with 5 min of recovery in between. Central and peripheral fatigue were quantified via preexercise to postexercise (15-s through 15-min recovery) changes in voluntary activation (VA) and potentiated twitch force. VA was measured using the interpolated twitch technique, and potentiated twitch force was evoked by single (QTsingle) and paired (10-Hz (QT10) and 100-Hz (QT100)) electrical stimulations of the femoral nerve.

Results

Mean power output was 32%–72% higher during all the time trials and decreased less (−10% vs −13%) from the first to second time trial in PRO compared with MOD (P < 0.05). Conversely, exercise-induced reduction in QTsingle and QT10/QT100 was significantly lower in PRO after every time trial (P < 0.05). Recovery from fatigue from 15 s to 2 min for QTsingle and QT10/QT100 was slower in PRO after every time trial (P < 0.05). In both groups, the reduction in QTsingle was lower after the 10minTTs compared with 1minTTs (P < 0.05). Conversely, VA decreased more after the 10minTTs compared with 1minTTs (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings showed that excitation–contraction coupling was preserved after exercise in PRO compared with MOD. This likely contributed to the improved performance during repeated cycling time trials of various intensity/duration in PRO, despite a slower rate of recovery in its early phase. Finally, the time course of recovery from neuromuscular fatigue in PRO was dependent on the effects of prolonged low-frequency force depression.
Prevalence of calcified triticeous cartilage-compatible images on 2500 digital panoramic radiographs of a Brazilian population sample
Authors: Soares Guilherme Costa , Kurita Lúcio Mitsuo , Alves Ana Paula Negreiros Nunes , Silva Paulo Goberlânio de Barros , Santos Juliana Mara Oliveira , Costa Fábio Wildson Gurgel
Published: November 2020

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of calcified triticeous cartilage (CTC)-compatible images on digital panoramic radiographs of a significant Brazilian population sample. Methods: In this retrospective study, 2500 digital panoramic radiographs were analyzed by a trained examiner using contrast and brightness adjustments of the Adobe® Photoshop® CC 2015 software. Data were collected and exported for statistical analysis (p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant). Results: The prevalence of CTC-compatible images was 4.5% (61.1% in women and 38.9% in men). The most prevalent age ranged between 51 and 60 years (32.7%), and bilateral occurrence had a higher prevalence (46.9%). Women between the ages of 61 and 70 years showed a significantly higher prevalence of CTC-compatible images (p=0.027). Conclusion: This study showed a low prevalence of CTC-compatible images, which mainly occurred in women close to 70 years of age.
Clinical and epidemiological characteristics and factors associated with mortality in adult patients admitted by COVID -19 in intensive care
Authors: Barbosa Orivaldo Alves , Andrade Talita Guimarães , De Almeida Sousa Maria Danielly , Rodrigues Sofia Esmeraldo , Viana Paulo Robson , Moretto Marcelo da Silva , Teles Milena de Azevedo , Rocha Hermano Alexandre Lima
Published: November 2020

Objectives: We conducted a retrospective, observational, case-control type study to define the clinical and epidemiological characteristics and factors associated with death in the intensive care of these patients. Methodology: We reviewed the medical records and examinations of 72 patients with confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection in our intensive care unit (ICU). Results: In the review, 20 patients died during hospitalization, and 52 were discharged from the ICU. Associated with mortality, we verified, after analysis, that age, male gender, smoking, tropononin levels, creatinine, lymphocytes, bilirubin, and respiratory compliance were statistically significant. SOFA, APACHE 2, and SAPS 2 scores were good predictors of ICU mortality in this population. Conclusion: Despite several limitations, our study was able to demonstrate a series of clinical and laboratory factors associated with ICU death by COVID-19, compatible with international and multicenter case series
Business Groups and Employment
Authors: Faccio Mara , O’Brien William J.
Published: November 2020

Using a newly assembled 50-country firm-level database spanning 19 years, we document a bright side for employees of business group–affiliated firms: less pronounced fluctuations in employment than unaffiliated firms in response to macroeconomic shocks. The results are robust to a variety of tests designed to mitigate endogeneity concerns, including propensity score matching and comparisons of successful and failed group integrations, and are present in both booms and recessions. Our results are most consistent with group internal labor markets rather than several alternative explanations (internal capital markets, a lower overall sensitivity to shocks in group firms, or agency problems).

This paper was accepted by David Simchi-Levi, finance.
Stage-Gate Escalation
Authors: Klingebiel Ronald , Esser Peter
Published: November 2020

In this article, we review resource allocation at former handset maker Sony Ericsson. Three observations reveal how innovation projects can escalate through a stage-gate process that is meant to minimize initial commitment. First, uncertainty makes business cases hard to disconfirm in the early stages of project development. Second, as information that can be used to disconfirm business cases becomes more readily attainable in later stages of development, an increasing focus on project completion discourages the updating of business cases. Third, if business cases are revised negatively, the heightened organizational attention appears to make discontinuations less likely. We contextualize these three findings, replicate them with data from a second company, and discuss their potential implications for organizing innovation under uncertainty.
Comparing approaches to sciatic nerve blocks in dogs during tibial plateau-levelling osteotomy
Authors: Thomson Robyn , Chevallier Delphine Le , Love Emma , Murrell Jo
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative analgesic requirements in dogs receiving a sciatic nerve block by either the lateral or transgluteal approach. The secondary aim was to determine if there was a difference in ease of performing the nerve block. Forty-two client-owned dogs were used in this study. Sciatic nerve block was performed by the transgluteal approach (group A), or the lateral approach (group B) combined with a psoas compartment block. All blocks were performed using a nerve stimulator and 0.1 ml/kg bupivacaine 0.5%, per block. The time taken to perform the sciatic nerve block, number of attempts, the current (mA), and intraoperative and postoperative opioid requirements were recorded. Overall, 52% of dogs required methadone intraoperatively, with no difference between groups (P=0.516). Postoperatively, 24% in group A and 12% in group B required methadone (P=0.314). There was no difference in the time taken to perform the sciatic nerve block, current or the number of attempts between groups. Both approaches to the sciatic nerve block conferred similar levels of analgesia and may be used as part of a multimodal analgesic protocol for dogs undergoing pelvic limb surgery.
Demonstrate change
Authors: Caswell Jo
Published: November 2020

Jo Caswell explains what to expect from Ofsted's ‘interim visits’ which will focus strongly on your setting's safeguarding arrangements. Be ready to show how you are supporting and reassessing the needs of vulnerable children.
Staying in line
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: November 2020

Be inspired by Mondrian to create simple, stunning artworks which involve children working in small groups and having fun collaborating. Even two-year-olds can get involved.