bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and Efficacy of Hemispherical with Flattened Pole Dual-Mobility Acetabular Cup in Revision or Complex Hip Arthroplasty: The SYMCOR-2 study
Authors: Estour Gilles , Bonin Nicolas , Loïc Schneider , Guyen Olivier , Daoud Frederic Christopher
Published: October 2020

Background: This study estimated the short-term clinical safety and efficacy of hemispherical with flattened pole cobalt-chromium metal-back dual-mobility acetabular cup with porous outer hydroxyapatite coating and anchoring screw and pods (HFPC-DMR-HA) or cement fixation (HFPC-DM-CEM), in revision or complex total hip arthroplasty.Methods: Single-center retrospective observational cohort study of consecutively operated patients who underwent THA with an HFPC-DMR-HA or HFPC-DM-CEM cup 2 years prior to study start. Prospective 2-year follow-up with letter and phone questionnaires.Results: Sampling frame: 203 patients including 9.85% in the two cohorts with 15 HFPC-DMR-HA and 5 HFPC-DM-CEM. 3 (20%) and 2 (40%) patients were lost to follow-up, respectively. Median age was 85.6 years (range: 45.1 ; 93.3) and 78.8 (range: 68.8 ; 86.9). Median follow-up (years): HFPC-DMR-HA: 2.3, HFPC-DM-CEM: 3.3. Clinical indications: HFPC-DMR-HA 67% revision & 33% primary THAs, HFPC-DM-CEM 100% revision. Primary endpoint: 2-year implant survival rate: HFPC-DMR-HA 93% [59, 99], HFPC-DM-CEM 100%. Prosthetic dislocation: HFPC-DMR-HA 1 (6.7%), HFPC-DM-CEM 0%. Secondary endpoint: Modified HHS (pain & functional subscore) improved with HFPC-DMR-HA from baseline 26.8 [14.9, 38.7] to 82.2 [73.5, 90.9] at 2-year follow-up (p<0.0001); HFPC-DM-CEM from 41.6 [24.9, 58.3] to 80.7 [55.8, 100].Conclusions: The authors deemed the short-term outcomes with these acetabular cups in revision or complex total hip arthroplasty to be satisfactory.Study registration: clinicaltrials.gov NCT04209426.
Does Organizational Vision Really Matter? An Empirical Examination of Factors Related to Organizational Vision Integration Among Hospital Employees
Authors: Slåtten Terje , Mutonyi Barbara Rebecca , Lien Gudbrand
Published: October 2020

Background: There seems to be a consensus that a vision for an organization is a valuable thing for organizations to have. However, research on organizational vision has predominantly been studied from a leadership perspective. In contrast to previous research, organizational vision in this paper takes an employee perspective. Specifically, the purpose is to examine factors associated with the integration of organizational vision among employees in hospital organizations. Consequently, it focuses on a relatively neglected domain within health services research.Methods: A conceptual model, centred on the concept of organizational vision integration, was developed and tested on a sample (N = 1008) consisting of hospital employees. Partial least-squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the hypotheses, using SmartPLS 3 software. Furthermore, a bootstrapping test was used to inspect potential mediating effects. Specifically, the test assessed whether the proposed direct and indirect effects were statistically significant, and at the same time revealed the nature of the mediation effect.Results: The results from the empirical study reveal three key findings: i) organizational vision integration among employees is directly and positively related to creative performance in their respective work role (β = 0.16). Organizational vision integration and employees’ psychological capital explains almost 40% (R2 = 0.37) in employees’ creative performance, ii) psychological capital and employees’ perception of organizational attractiveness are directly and positively related to employees’ organizational vision integration (β = 0.19 and β = 0.41, respectively) and explains about 30% (R2 = 0.29) of employees’ organizational vision integration, iii) employees’ organizational vision integration mediates the relationship between employees’ psychological capital, perception of organizational attractiveness and employees’ creative performance.Conclusions: Taking an employee perspective, this study contributes to revealing whether and how organizational vision matters and its impact on hospital employees’ work performance. To achieve organizational vision integration among hospital employees successfully, this study shows that it is important for hospital leaders to be aware of the pattern of impact of both personal as well as environmental-related factors.
Ruanjian Sanjie Decoction Induces Apoptosis in Triple-negative Breast Cancer Cells by Downregulating cIAP1/2 and XIAP
Authors: Zhao Xiumei , Wang Tongxing , Jia Qiang , Wang Luyao , Tan Cheng , Shen Hongsheng , Shi Pengcheng , Liu Lei , Li Wenchang , Hu Yunhui , Liu Hongbin
Published: October 2020

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) comprises a unique theoretical system developed over thousands of years. The previous study reported that Ruanjian Sanjie (RJSJ) exerts anti-tumor effects by inducing cell apoptosis. However, the mechanism is not clear. Methods: In this study, we investigated the possible mechanism by the strategy of combining network pharmacology analysis with experiment (in vitro and in vivo). First, four kinds of breast cancer cell lines were used to conduct proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle analysis. Secondly, to study pathophysiological processes of breast cancer at the molecular network level, we for the first time constructed an “integrated apoptosis module network of breast cancer” by assembling the regulatory relationships of canonical apoptosis signaling pathways. Through the strategy of combining network analysis and experiments, we analyzed the main mechanism of RJSJ in breast cancer and screened out the core genes. We further studied the inhibitory effect of RJSJ combined with carboplatin (CBP) in vivo. Finally, the synergistic effect of RJSJ and CBP were analyzed and the potential active components in RJSJ were predicted.Results: This study demonstrated that RJSJ could significantly inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. The primary mechanism of RJSJ in the treatment of breast cancer was pro-apoptotic. The core apoptosis genes regulated by RJSJ were cIAP1/2 and XIAP. We also found that RJSJ in combination with CBP tended to synergistically induce apoptosis, which might mainly be achieved through the regulation of multiple targets and pathways. Alexandrin (BX05, XKC02, SCG01), baicalin (BX22), guanosine (BX32), arjunglucoside I (XKC10) etc. were predicted as potential active components.Conclusions: These findings provide the rationale for exploring the therapeutic effects of RJSJ against breast cancer and providing a bridge for the combined use of Chinese and Western medicine.
Dissect the Heterogeneity of Longitudinal Cognitive Declines with Risk Factors and Functional Outcomes in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Chen Wen Yin , Huang Ming-Chyi , Lee Ya-Chin , Chang Chiao-Erh , Lin Shih-Ku , Chiu Chih-Chiang , Liu Hsing-Cheng , Kuo Chian-Jue , Chen Po-Yu , Kuo Po-Hsiu
Published: October 2020

Background: We characterized the heterogeneity and risk factors of cognitive decline in bipolar disorder (BD), and their magnitude of associations with subjective daily functions. Methods: Recruited BD patients (N=127) were followed for an average of 6.5 years. Baseline intelligence quotient was measured, and Brief Assessment of Cognition in Affective Disorders (BAC-A) was used to assess cognition at follow-up. We evaluated current functions with World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0. Clinical and sociodemographic factors were compared between BD patients with and without longitudinal cognitive decline and revealed the independent risk factors through multiple regression analysis. Correlations between specific cognitive domains and functional outcomes were examined in subgroups of BD.Results: Overall, 32.3% of BD patients showed longitudinal cognitive decline. In cognitive decline group, all cognitive domains of BAC-A were significantly worsened. Baseline independent risk factors for cognitive decline were older age, body mass index >25, and manic episode density during the disease course. After the age of 40 years, a steeper cognitive change was observed in the cognitive decline group. Housekeeping dysfunction was the most sensitive function related to diverse cognitive impairment in cognitive decline group. The correlations between cognitive domains and functional outcomes differed between patients with and without cognitive decline.Conclusions: This study characterized cognitive heterogeneity longitudinally in BD, as the foundation to facilitate future genetic and biological studies for BD subtypes. Manic episode density and overweight are important risk factors for cognitive decline; therefore, we suggested further interventions should target on relapse prevention and controlling body weight.
Awareness of Sudanese Citizens about the Benefits of Breastfeeding compared to Formula in Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Aljafari Abdulmalek , Aziz Ibrahim Adel , Hezima Ahmed Gamal , Awad Mustafa Sabir , AlMustafa Ahmed , Sammarraie Ahmad Khairi Al , Alhaboob Ahmed Mohammedahmed , Hamadnalla Mohanad Altigani
Published: October 2020

Background: There are a major differences between breastfeeding and formula feeding. Therefore, it’s essential for expectants and new parents to be aware of such variations, as its important determinants of infant feeding behavior. This study aimed to construct a solid foundation on the awareness and perception regarding breastfeeding verses packed formulas among the locals. Additionally, we wished to identify any possible misconceptions about their benefits.Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study, carried out during the months of July and August 2020 at Khartoum state, Sudan. The target population was all Sudanese citizens of both genders, aged 18 and above, who’ve agreed to participate in this study, respondents who’ve missed any of the aforesaid criteria were excluded. Results: Among our study respondents (n=905), 464 (51.27%) were female and 409 (45.19%) were married. Two hundred and eleven (23.31%) had 1-2 children and 422 (46.63%) held a bachelor’s degree. The mean awareness score was 10.88 (SD: 2.25, range: 0-15), suggesting an overall 72.53% (10.88/15*100) correct rate on this awareness test. Awareness scores significantly differed across genders, age-groups, marital status, education levels, and places of residence (P<0.05). Most of our sample (97.35%) agreed that breastfeeding is the ideal nutrition for infants <6 months old. Five hundred and ninety (65.19%) were aware that breastfeeding reduces the mortality rate of infants, and 712 (78.67%) of the participants answered correctly that breastfeeding decreases the maternal risk of breast and ovarian cancer.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the general awareness on this topic needs further improvement and more attention.
Circulating Tumor Cell and Metabolites as Novel Biomarkers for Early-stage Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Wan Lingling , He Yutong , Liu Qingyi , Liang Di , Guo Yongdong , Liu Guangjie , Ren Jinxia , Shan Baoen
Published: October 2020

Background: Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that has the highest morbidity and mortality rate among all cancers. Early diagnosis of lung cancer is a key factor in reducing mortality and improving prognosis. Methods: In this study, we performed CTC next-generation sequencing (NGS) in early-stage lung cancer patients to identify lung cancer-related gene mutations. Meanwhile, a serum liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) untargeted metabolomics analysis was performed in the CTC-positive patients, and the early diagnostic value of these assays in lung cancer was analyzed. Results: 62.5% (30/48) of lung cancer patients had ≥ 1 CTC. By CTC NGS, we found that > 50% of patients had 4 commonly mutated genes, namely, NOTCH1, IGF2, EGFR, and PTCH1. 47.37% (9/19) patients had ARIDH1 mutations. Additionally, 30 CTC-positive patients and 30 healthy volunteers were subjected to LC-MS untargeted metabolomics analysis. We found 100 different metabolites, and 10 different metabolites were identified through analysis, which may have potential clinical application value in the diagnosis of CTC-positive early-stage lung cancer (AUC > 0.9). Conclusions: Our results indicate that NGS of CTC and metabolomics may provide new tumor markers for the early diagnosis of lung cancer. This possibility requires more in-depth large-sample research for verification.
Cross sign T2 hyperintensities in atrophic spinal cord of hereditary spastic paraplegia type 5
Authors: Wang Ning , Liu Ying , Ye Zhixian , Lin Yi , Lin Xiang , Chen Yi-Jun , Wang Meng-Wen , Hu Jianping , Cai Wenjie , Weng Qiang , Zeng Yi-Heng , Li Gui-He , Huang Xue-Jing , Liu Yaou , Chen Wan-Jin , Cao Dairong , Fu Ying
Published: October 2020

Background: Hereditary spastic paraplegias type 5 (SPG5) is an inherited neurodegenerative disease with 27-hydroxycholesterol abnormal accumulation. Imaging and pathologic manifestations remain poorly understood due to the rare incidence. This study reveals the MRI features of SPG5, and aims to investigate a promising imaging diagnostic biomarker for SPG5.Methods: We prospectively recruited SPG5 patients and matched healthy controls from Neurogenetic Diseases Centers of Fujian province in China, clinical and MRI data of whom were collected. Abnormalities of spinal cord and brain were characterized and quantified by conventional and quantitative MRI. Comparisons were conducted between MRI and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) bioindicators.Results: Seventeen SPG5 patients were enrolled (11 men, 6 women; age range, 13–49 years; median disease duration, 14 years). For the first time, T2 hyperintensities with “+” form (cross sign) in atrophic spinal cord was found among all SPG5 patients. To grade severity of this sign, we set up a scoring scale (cross-sign scores) in cervical spinal cords. Unexpectedly, total cross-sign scores showed a strong positive correlation with disability scale scores (r = 0.687, P = 0.002) and disease duration (r = 0.520, P = 0.032). Although total spinal cord area was reduced (cervical levels: 12-27%; thoracic levels 41-60%), no correlation was found between spinal cord atrophy and disease severity. In CSF, a positive correlation was identified between 27-hydroxycholesterol and neurofilament light (r = 0.468, P = 0.049), although 27-hydroxycholesterol and neurofilament light were unrelated to disease severity.Conclusion: Cross sign of spinal cord was established as a potentially diagnostic biomarker linked to SPG5 that can guide genetic testing and interpret genetic results. Moreover, cross-sign scoring scale is more sensitive than spinal cord area and CSF markers for monitoring SPG5 progress in our research.
Shockwave-induced DNA-free genome editing in tobacco: targeting the actin depolymerizing factor gene increases drought and salinity tolerance
Authors: Augustine Sruthy Maria , Cherian Anoop Vadakan , Seiling Kerstin , Fiore Stefano Di , Raven Nicole , Commandeur Ulrich , Schillberg Stefan
Published: October 2020

DNA-free genome editing involves the direct introduction of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes into cells, but this strategy has rarely been successful in plants. Here we describe a new technique for the introduction of RNPs into plant cells involving the generation of cavitation bubbles using a pulsed laser. The resulting shockwave achieves the efficient transfection of walled cells in tissue explants by the creation of transient membrane pores. RNP-containing cells were rapidly identified by fluorescence microscopy, followed by regeneration and the screening of mutant plants by high-resolution melt analysis. We used this technique in tobacco to target the endogenous phytoene desaturase (pds) and actin depolymerizing factor (adf) genes. Genome-edited plants were produced with an efficiency of 5.6–8.7%. We also evaluated the effects of adf mutations in T2 mutant plants under drought and salinity stress, showing that adf acts as a key regulator of osmotic stress tolerance in plants.
Computational analyses of the G476S variant of SARS-CoV-2: A focus on the interaction with human ACE-2 and neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Kwarteng Alexander , Asiedu Ebenezer , Sylverken Augustina Angelina
Published: October 2020

Recently, several mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome have been identified and reported. However, little is currently known about the influence of these mutations on the infectivity, transmissibility and antigenicity of the virus. Here, using an integrative computational approach, we characterized the G476S variant of SARS-CoV-2 focusing on interactions with ACE-2 and neutralizing antibodies. The substitution of Gly-476 to Ser-476 in the SARS-CoV-2 Receptor-binding domain (RBD) largely affected the structural dynamics of the S-protein leading to significant influence on the interactions with ACE-2 and neutralizing antibodies. Structural properties of the S-protein such as conformation changes, residual fluctuations and residue surface area largely varied between the wild-type and G476S variant, especially in the RBD. Analyses of the interaction energies between S-protein and ACE-2 suggest that the G476S variant may have enhanced interactions with ACE-2 compared to the wild-type. The G476S variant was found to have weaker interactions with the neutralizing antibody H014 compared to the wild-type. Collectively, our findings have implications for the infectivity and antigenicity of the G476S variant of SARS-CoV-2.
Normal and Cancer Fibroblasts Differentially Regulate Cytokine Genes and TWIST1 and TOX  Expression in Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma 
Authors: Mehdi Syed Jafar , Moerman-Herzog Andrea , Wong Henry K
Published: October 2020

Background: Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) that transforms from mature, skin-homing T cells and progresses in the skin. The role of the skin microenvironment in MF development is unclear, but recent findings in a variety of cancers have highlighted the role of stromal fibroblasts in promoting or inhibiting tumorigenesis. Stromal fibroblast are an important part of the cutaneous tumor microenvironment (TME) in MF. Here we describe studies into the interaction of TME-fibroblasts and malignant T cells to gain insight into their role in CTCL.Methods: Myla cell is a CTCL cell line that retains expression of biomarkers TWIST1 and TOX that are frequently detected in CTCL patients. MyLa cells were cultured in the presence or absence of normal or MF skin derived fibroblasts for 5 days, trypsinized to detached Myla cells, and gene expression analyzed by RT-PCR for MF biomarkers (TWIST1 and TOX), Th1 markers (IFN-g, TBX21), Th2 markers (GATA3, IL-16), and proliferation marker (MKI67). Purified fibroblasts were assayed for expressed genes VIM and ACTA2. Cellular senescence assay was performed to assess senescence.Results: Normal fibroblasts co-cultured with MyLa cells suppressed expression of the CTCL biomarkers TWIST1 (p < 0.0006) and TOX (p<0.03) in MyLa cells . In contrast, MyLa cells cultured with MF fibroblasts retained high expression of TWIST1 and TOX. Normal fibroblasts increased expression of IFN-g (p < 0.03) and TBX21, and decreased expression of GATA3 (p < 0.02) and IL-16 (p < 0.03) in MyLa cells, whereas MF fibroblasts suppressed IFN-g and TBX21 and increased TWIST1 and TOX expression in MyLa cells. Furthermore, expression of MKI67 in MyLa cells was suppressed to a greater degree by normal fibroblasts compared to MF fibroblasts. Conclusions: Skin fibroblasts represent important components of the microenvironment in MF. In co-culture model, normal and cancer fibroblasts in MF have differential influence on T cell phenotype in modulating expression of Th1 cytokine and CTCL biomarker genes to reveal distinct role with implications in MF progression.
Curcumin Suppresses Tumorigenesis via Promoting SLC1A5-mediated Ferroptosis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Cao Xuelei , Li Yao , Wang Yongbin , Zhang Xuezhi , Yu Tao , Zhu Chao , Guan Jialiang
Published: October 2020

Background: Breast cancer is one of the most malignant tumors in the female. Previous studies confirmed that Curcumin, a kind of polyphenol compound extract from the Curcuma longa underground rhizome, inhibits the survival of cancer cells. However, the functional role and mechanism of curcumin in breast cancer remain unclear.Methods: The cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was performed to examine the effect of curcumin on cell viability in both MDA-MB-453 and MCF-7 cells. Determination of lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, malondialdehyde (MDA) production, and intracellular Fe2+ level was used to evaluate the effect of curcumin on cell ferroptosis. The protein levels were determined by western blot. A xenograft tumor model was employed to verify the antitumorigenic effect of curcumin on breast cancer in vivo.Results: Curcumin treatment significantly suppressed breast cancer cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, curcumin triggered ferroptosis by enhancing the levels of lipid ROS, lipid peroxidation end-product MDA accumulation, and intracellular Fe2+. Mechanistically, curcumin administration impeded tumor growth via upregulating solute carrier family 1 member 5 (SLC1A5)-mediated ferroptosis in breast cancer. In vivo experiments showed that curcumin could effectively hamper the growth of tumors without noticeable side effects.Conclusion: We demonstrated that curcumin exhibits anti-tumorigenesis activity in breast cancer by promoting SLC1A5-mediated ferroptosis, providing a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of breast cancer.
Sc Modification Induced Short-range Ordering in ZnGa2O4 Spinel Leading to High Microwave Dielectric Performance
Authors: Lu xiaochi , Quan Bin , Zheng Kailai , Chu Peng , Wang Jian , Shen Guangxu , Zhang Qitu , Xu Feng
Published: October 2020

Sc3+ (0,0.1,0.3,0.5,0.7mol%) modified ZnGa2O4 (abbreviated Sc-ZGO) ceramics were synthesized by solid-state method. The relationship between microwave dielectric performance and bonds vibration of Sc-ZGO as a function of Sc3+ modification has been systematically investigated. With Sc3+ modification, the εr of Sc-ZGO ceramics keeps steady (~10). While the τf of Sc-ZGO shows linear correlation with Sc3+ concentration increasing from -71ppm/℃ to -39ppm/℃, and the Q×f value climbs up to a maximum value (5Sc-ZGO) and then ramp down. 5Sc-ZGO sintered at 1350oC for 2 h exhibits the best microwave dielectric properties with εr = 9.9, Q×f = 124,147 GHz, tanδ = 7.98×10-5, and τf = -56 ppm/°C (@9.9 GHz). Q×f value of Sc modified ZGO increased by almost 45% compared with normal spinel ZnGa2O4 ceramics. The enhancement of τf and Q×f on Sc modified ZnGa2O4 can be attributed to higher densification, however, further Raman and FT-IR analysis elucidated that short-range cation ordering degree is another governing factor. The influence of Sc3+ modification on ZnGa2O4 bonds vibration has been discussed in detail.
A Novel PCR Method for Detecting ACE Gene Insertion/Deletion Polymorphisms and Its Clinical Application
Authors: Yang Xue-min , Liang Jian-ping , Huang Xiao-juan , Wang Xiang-rong , Sun Yang , Dong Chen , Cui Ya-li , Hui Wen-li
Published: October 2020

Background: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) plays a major role in blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular homeostasis. The wide distribution and multifunctional properties of ACE suggest it’s involvement in various pathophysiological conditions. Results: In this study, a novel visual detection method for ACE I/D polymorphisms was designed by integrating direct PCR without the need for DNA extraction using gold magnetic nanoparticles (GMNPs)-based lateral flow assay (LFA) biosensor. The entire detection procedure could enable the genotyping of clinical samples in about 80 minutes. The detection limit was 0.75 ng and results could be obtained in 5 minutes using the LFA device. Three hundred peripheral blood samples were analyzed using the direct PCR-LFA system and then verified by sequencing to determine accuracy and repeatability. A clinical preliminary study was then performed to analyze a total of 633 clinical samples. Conclusions: After grouping based on age, we found a significant difference between the genotypes and the age of patients in the CHD group. The introduction of this method into clinical practice may be helpful for the diagnosis of diseases caused by large fragment gene insertions/deletions.
Genome-wide Assessment Elucidates Connectivity and the Evolutionary History of the Highly Dispersive Marine Invertebrate Littoraria Flava (Littorinidae:Gastropoda)
Authors: Cortez Thainá , Amaral Rafael Viana , Sobral-Souza Thadeu , Andrade Sonia
Published: October 2020

Background: An important goal of population genetics studies in marine ecosystems is understanding how connectivity patterns, both spatial and temporal, are influenced by historical and evolutionary factors. When it comes to dispersion and connectivity in marine ecosystems, the role of historical and evolutionary factors over population dynamics andstructure still remains enigmatic. We evaluated the demographic history and population structure of Littoraria flava, a highly dispersive and widely distributed marine gastropod on the Brazilian intertidal zone, to predict the effects of such factors on intrapopulation divergence. To test the hypotheses that (1) the species has historically high levels of geneflow on a macrogeographic spatial scale and (2) the species distribution in rocky shores consists of subpopulations due to high degrees of environmental heterogeneity, we collected specimens along the Brazilian coastline and combined different sets of genetic markers (mitochondrial DNA, nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2, and single nucleotide polymorphisms) with niche-based modeling to predict species paleodistribution.Results: Low genetic structure was observed along the coastline, and all clustering and migration analyses supported the high gene flow over long distances hypothesis (> 3,000 km). Three genetic clusters were identified by the assignment test, each mostly composed of individuals from the three sampled regions. No fine-scale variation was observed for any location. The neutrality tests and the haplotype networks suggest that L. flava had experienced population bottleneck followed by population expansion. Both paleodistribution and coalescent simulations highlight that expansion events occurred in the Southeastern coastline during the Pleistocene interglacial cycles (21 kya).Conclusions: This is the first study on the South American coast that highlights the demographic history on a marine gastropod based on genomic markers associated with niche modelling. We found that climatic changes since the interglacial periods are potentially relevant drivers for the species distribution in the past. Our findings could enhance the understanding of the population dynamics under an evolutionary view for widely distributed non-model marine organisms.
Prediction of daily contagions of CoViD-19-SARS-CoV-2 from August 24 to July 31, 2021 in Apulia, a region of Italy, by using a New Epidemiologic Fractal Model. 
Authors: Rinzivillo Calogero , Conte Sergio , Casciaro Francesco , Bernardini Renato , Benigni Elena , Monte Ines Paola , Kaleagasioglu Ferda , Wang Fang , Mordeniz Cengiz , Liberti Giuseppe , Conte Elio
Published: October 2020

We study a new fractal model for prediction of contagions of CoViD-19 (Sarbeco Betavirus SARS-CoV-2) from August 24, 2020 to July 31, 20201 in Apulia that is a region of Italy. We obtain that the time of the peak is estimated to be at December 7, 2020 and the number of contagions will be about 575 cases.
Trans-Scapular Approach Coil Localization for Scapular-Blocked Pulmonary Nodules: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Wu Juan , Zhang Min-Ge , Chen Jin , Ji Wen-Bin
Published: October 2020

Background: Preoperative computed tomography (CT)-guided coil localization (CL) is commonly employed to facilitate the video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)-guided diagnostic wedge resection (WR) of pulmonary nodules (PNs). When a scapular-blocked PN (SBPN) will be localized, the trans-scapular CL (TSCL) should be performed. In this study, we investigated the safety, feasibility, and clinical efficacy of preoperative CT-guided TSCL for SBPNs.Materials and Methods: From January 2014 to September 2020, a total of 152 patients with PNs underwent CT-guided CL prior to VATS-guided WR. Among them, 14 patients had the SBPNs and underwent TSCL procedure. Results: A total of 14 SBPNs were localized in the 14 patients. The mean diameter of the 14 SBPNs was 7.4 ± 2.4 mm. Technical success rate of puncture of the scapula was 100%. No complications occurred near the scapula. Technical success rate of CL was 92.9%. One coil dropped off when performing the VATS procedure. The mean duration of the TSCL was 14.2 ± 2.7 min. Two patient (14.3%) developed aysmptomatic pneumothorax after TSCL. Technical success rate of VATS-guided WR was 92.9%. The patient who experienced technical failure of TSCL directly underwent lobectomy. The mean VATS procedure duration and blood loss were 90.0 ± 42.4 min and 62.9 ± 37.2 ml, respectively. The final diagnoses of the 14 SBPNs included invasive adenocarcinoma (n = 4), adenocarcinoma in situ (n = 9), and benign (n = 1).Conclusions: Preoperative CT-guided TSCL can be safely and simply used to facilitate high successful rates of VATS-guided WR of SBPNs.
PD-1/PD-Ls Pathway Down-regulation in Peripheral Cells Correlates with Asbestosis Severity
Authors: Qiu Meihua , Chen Yuqing , Ye Qiao
Published: October 2020

Background: Asbestosis and silicosis are characterized by diffuse or nodular interstitial lung fibrosis resulting from exposure to asbestos or silica dust, respectively. This study was designed to detect programmed cell death protein (PD-1)/programmed death-ligands (PD-Ls) expression in patients with asbestosis and silicosis and to explore the possible clinical significance of PD-1/PD-Ls expression in the two diseases.Methods: Thirty patients with asbestosis, 23 patients with silicosis and 25 healthy controls were consecutively recruited for and provided informed consent to participate in the study. Clinical data were collected from patient clinical charts. PD-1/PD-Ls expression in peripheral blood (PB) was detected by flow cytometry.Results: PD-1 expression on CD4+ or CD8+ peripheral T cells was significantly lower in patients with asbestosis and silicosis than in healthy controls. Similarly, PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression on CD14+ monocytes was significantly lower in patients with asbestosis and silicosis than in healthy controls. In addition, there was no significant difference in PD-1, PD-L1 or PD-L2 expression between the asbestosis and silicosis groups. Moreover, the proportions of PD-1+ CD4+T cells and PD-1+ CD8+T cells in patients with asbestosis were positively correlated with the percentage of forced vital capacity (FVC) predicted. Conclusion: Lower PD-1 expression on CD4+T or CD8+ T cells in PB was positively correlated with parameters representing disease severity, implying that pulmonary fibrosis development was positively correlated with PD-1/PD-Ls pathway down-regulation.
COVID-19: first long-term care facility outbreak in the Netherlands following cross-border introduction from Germany, March 2020
Authors: Hensbergen Mitch van , Heijer Casper D.J. den , Wolffs Petra , Hackert Volker , Waarbeek Henriette L.G. ter , Munnink Bas B. Oude , Sikkema Reina S. , Heddema Edou R. , Hoebe Christian J.P.A.
Published: October 2020

Background: The Dutch province of Limburg borders the German district of Heinsberg, which had a large cluster of COVID-19 cases linked to local carnival activities in February, before any cases were reported in the Netherlands. However, Heinsberg was not included as an area reporting local or community transmission per the national case definition at the time. In early March, two residents from a long-term care facility (LTCF) in Sittard, a Dutch town located in close vicinity to the district of Heinsberg, started experiencing respiratory symptoms and were admitted to the regional hospital at which they were tested for COVID-19. Introduction of the virus could have occurred following the carnival activities in the surrounding area by LTCF visitors or health care workers.Methods: Surveys and semi-structured oral interviews were conducted with all present residents by health care workers during regular points of care for information on new or unusual signs and symptoms of disease. Both throat and nasopharyngeal swabs were taken from residents suspect of COVID-19 for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 by Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction and whole genome sequencing was performed using a SARS-CoV-2 specific amplicon-based Nanopore sequencing approach. Additionally, twelve random residents were sampled for possible asymptomatic infections.Results: Since the start of the outbreak, nineteen (19%) residents tested positive for COVID-19. Eleven samples were sequenced, along with three random samples from COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the regional hospital at the time of the LTCF outbreak. Conclusions: All samples were linked to COVID-19 cases from the cross-border region of Heinsberg, Germany. Symptoms were reported only in about two third of the cases, and tended to be generally mild. We therefore recommend low-level screening of HCWs and residents following a confirmed COVID-19 case, even in the absence of symptoms. Since the LTCF residents who tested positive did not meet the criteria for suspect cases of COVID-19 at the time, this highlights the importance of cooperation among cross-border partners in order to establish a coordinated implementation of infection control measures in the region on top of national guidelines to limit the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
Hunger, fear and isolation: An analysis of media reports of COVID-19 related suicides in India 
Authors: Balaji Madhumitha , Patel Vikram
Published: October 2020

Purpose: India’s suicide rates are among the highest in the world, and may increase further as a consequence of COVID-19. There is an urgent need to examine which pandemic related stressors may be contributing to suicide and to identify vulnerable populations to inform the deployment of suicide prevention strategies. Methods: We identified, and conducted a thematic analysis of Internet media reports of COVID-19 related suicides in India between February 1, 2020 (2 days after the first COVID-19 case), and May 31, 2020, (the end of phase four of the nationwide lockdown). Results: We identified 291 suicides, and observed a rise in the number reported every month. 10 pandemic stressors spanning both disease and lockdown-related factors contributed to these suicides. Economic hardship was present in a third; other notable stressors were: fear of the virus; isolation; desperation to be connected with loved ones or return home; and craving for alcohol. A range of groups seemed particularly vulnerable to these stressors including specific demographic populations (young people, men); socially disadvantaged groups (for example, migrant workers); and those with health problems and other risks (for example, persons with COVID-19 exposure). Conclusions: COVID-19 related suicides are precipitated by social and economic adversities, mainly associated with containment strategies. Urgent action is needed to implement a nationwide suicide prevention strategy which can mitigate the impact of recognized stressors, target high-risk individuals, and offer mental health care alongside containment strategies.
Pedagogical implications of teaching codes of ethics at tertiary level: An Italian case study
Authors: Giglioni Cinzia , Patat Ellen
Published: October 2020

The study investigates the use of codes of ethics in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) to students enrolled in a first- level master’s course in Marketing Management in an Italian public university. According to Bhatia (2002), genre-specific documents such as codes of ethics have the potential to “sensitise and prepare students to meet the communicative demands of disciplinary communication” (p. 13). Within the theoretical framework of genre analysis and its possible implications for language teaching, this paper focuses on learners’ perceptions and achievements in EFL learning using corporate codes of ethics, presented to students both theoretically and on a practical level. A pre-questionnaire, pre- and post-test, and abridged post-treatment questionnaire were used to collect data. The goal of the five-week study was to demonstrate that genre pedagogy caters to learners’ needs, raises rhetorical and genre awareness, and fosters language awareness at a micro-textual, lexico-syntactical level.
Reseña: Macedo, Donaldo (Ed.) (2019). Decolonizing foreign language education: The misteaching of English and other colonial languages. Routledge.
Authors: Padilla Lillie Vivian
Published: October 2020

El libro reseñado considera las diferentes maneras en las que se puede descolonizar la enseñanza de lenguas extranjeras en el salón de clase. El libro incluye 11 capítulos que examinan las diferentes ramas de la enseñanza y propone sugerencias para lograr esta descolonización.
Review: Belpoliti, Flavia & Bermejo, Encarna (2020). Spanish heritage learners’ emerging literacy: Empirical research and classroom practice. Routledge.
Authors: Monarrez Rhone Sendy
Published: October 2020

This manuscript reviews Spanish Heritage Learners’ Emerging Literacy: Empirical Research and Classroom Practice, by Flavia Belpoliti (Texas A&M University-Commerce) and Encarna Bermejo (Houston Baptist University), published in 2020 by Routledge. The book is the result of an empirical study. Its eight chapters follow a research-based approach to the teaching of Spanish Heritage Language. The authors present detailed linguistic features to consider when teaching SHL writing and research-based pedagogical and instructional implications.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Impact on Neurosurgery Practice in Malaysia: Academic Insights, Clinical Experience and Protocols from March till August 2020
Authors: Raffiq Azman , Boon Seng Liew , Swee San Lim , Zakaria Zaitun , Song Yee Ang , Fitzrol Diana Noma , Wan Hassan Wan Mohd Nazaruddin , Idris Zamzuri , Ghani Abdul Rahman Izaini , Rosman Azmin Kass , Abdullah Jafri Malin
Published: October 2020

The newly discovered coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease introduced to humans for the first time. Following the pandemic of COVID-19, there is a major shift of practices among surgical departments in response to an unprecedented surge in reducing the transmission of disease. With pooling and outsourcing of more health care workers to emergency rooms, public health care services and medical services, further in-hospital resources are prioritised to those in need. It is imperative to balance the requirements of caring for COVID-19 patients with imminent risk of delay to others who need care. As Malaysia now approaches the recovery phase following the pandemic, the crisis impacted significantly on neurosurgical services throughout the country. Various emergency measures taken at the height of the crisis may remain as the new normal in the provision of neurosurgical services and practices in Malaysia. The crisis has certainly put a strain on the effective delivery of services and as we approach the recovery era, what may have been a strain may prove to be a silver lining in neurosurgical services in Malaysia. The following details are various measures put in place as the new operational protocols for neurosurgical services in Malaysia.
Relapsed/Progressive Disease and Its Prognostic Factors among Multiple Myeloma Patients Receiving Novel Agent Treatment in North East Peninsular Malaysia: A Single Centre Experience
Authors: Wan Hanafi Hany Haqimi , Husin Azlan , Yaacob Najib Majdi , Abdullah Abu Dzarr
Published: October 2020

Background: Some multiple myeloma (MM) patients still relapse/progress despite novel agent therapy and relapse/progression in MM is therefore a vital area of ongoing research in the novel treatment era. This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the time to relapse/ progression (TTP) among MM patients who received novel agents and to determine the associated prognostic factors.

Methods: This study included 89 MM patients treated at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. We analysed the TTP and the type of relapse/progression (biochemical versus clinical), and a Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify the significant prognostic factors.

Results: Sixty-four percent of patients had biochemical relapse/progression. The overall median TTP among MM patients who received the novel agent(s) was 29.33 months (95% CI: 21.36–37.29). The type of paraprotein at diagnosis (P = 0.026, P = 0.228), International Staging System (ISS) score (P = 0.036, P = 0.067) and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) (P = 0.002) were prognostic factors for relapse/progression by simple Cox regression, but ASCT was the only significant predictor detected by multiple Cox regression (P = 0.003).

Conclusion: Our study reflects the importance of paraprotein monitoring to detect early features of relapse/progression. ASCT is the most prognostic factor that may lengthen the TTP.
First Parental Concerns and Age at Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Retrospective Review from Malaysia
Authors: Jayanath Subhashini , Ozonoff Sally
Published: October 2020

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. This is the first study to examine first parental concerns in ASD in Malaysia. We examined: i) age and type of first parental concerns (AOC); ii) association between AOC and severity; iii) time lag between AOC and diagnosis; and iv) factors associated with diagnostic delay.

Methods: Medical records of 366 patients (aged 1–18 years) with ASD, at the Developmental Paediatrics Clinic of University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Kuala Lumpur, were reviewed for this 16-month retrospective cohort study. A validated coding system was used for initial parent concerns. Severity was classified via the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5th edition (DSM-5) criteria. Time lag between AOC and age at diagnosis (AOD) was calculated. Potential predictors of delayed diagnosis were extracted.

Results: Three-quarters (75.1%) of parents had concerns by 36 months. Speech/language/ communication concerns were most frequent (60.1%). Number of first concerns was significantly correlated with severity (social communication/interaction, SCI [P = 0.019] and restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviours and/or interests/activities, RRB [P < 0.001]). AOC and AOD were significantly negatively correlated with SCI and RRB (P < 0.001). Medians; AOC: 24 months, AOD: 46 months and time lag: 17 months. Higher initial screen time was associated with diagnostic delay (P = 0.031).

Conclusion: First parental concerns and AOD were comparable to studies across countries. Speech/communication delays may represent universal first parental recognition of ASD.
Odnos korištenja seksualno eksplicitnog materijala i seksualno rizičnog ponašanja mladih
Authors: Buovac Petra , Vidaković Marina
Published: October 2020

Seksualno eksplicitni materijal (SEM) je bilo koji materijal koji prikazuje spolne organe, a kojemu je cilj seksualno uzbuđenje ili poticanje mašte uz prikaze jasno eksplicitnih seksualnih radnji. Učestalost korištenja raznih vrsta SEM-a nerijetko se dovodi u vezu s različitim seksualnim ponašanjima (seksualni odnosi pod utjecajem psihoaktivnih supstanci, povremeni seksualni odnosi) i stavovima (permisivnost seksualnih stavova, stavovi o seksualnim aktivnostima i intimnim odnosima). Stoga je cilj ovog istraživanja bio ispitati odnos između korištenja seksualno eksplicitnog materijala i seksualno rizičnog ponašanja (rano seksualno iskustvo, korištenje kondoma u većini seksualnih veza, seksualna veza s nepoznatom osobom). Konačni uzorak bio je sastavljen od 58 muškaraca i 85 žena prosječne dobi 20,78 godina. Sudionici su ispunjavali Upitnik seksualno rizičnog ponašanja i Skalu stavova o seksualnosti te su im bila postavljena pitanja o upotrebi SEM-a. Rezultati su pokazali da postoji značajna razlika po spolu u čestini i vrsti korištenja SEM-a, odnosno muškarci upotrebljavaju SEM češće od žena, a također i više upotrebljavaju online videa i online fotografije. Muškarci su ranije bili prvi put izloženi SEM-u. Muškarci su pokazali tendenciju većeg seksualno rizičnog ponašanja i permisivnijih stavova prema seksualnosti u odnosu na žene. Utvrđena je i pozitivna povezanost između čestine korištenja SEM-a i seksualno rizičnog ponašanja u žena, odnosno što žene češće upotrebljavaju SEM, to se i ponašaju seksualno rizičnije. Između ostalog, utvrđena je i pozitivna povezanost između čestine korištenja SEM-a i permisivnosti stavova prema seksualnosti i u muškaraca i u žena, odnosno, što je veća čestina korištenja SEM-a, to su i stavovi prema seksualnosti permisivniji. Ključne riječi: seksualnost, seksualno eksplicitan materijal, seksualno rizično ponašanje, stavovi prema seksualnosti
Kvaliteta života kod pacijentica oboljelih od raka dojke: uloga aleksitimije i obrambenih mehanizama
Authors: Popović Dora , Žipovski Jelena , Brajković Lovorka
Published: October 2020

U procesu liječenja, pacijentice koje boluju od raka dojke, uz otežano fizičko funkcioniranje kao posljedice prirode same bolesti, nerijetko doživljavaju i psihičke tegobe zbog brige oko vlastite dijagnoze i njenih ishoda. Glavni je cilj ovog istraživanja utvrditi kvalitetu života i određene psihičke aspekte pacijentica oboljelih od raka dojke. U istraživanju su sudjelovale 44 pacijentice koje su pomoć potražile u različitim klinikama i udrugama na području grada Zagreba. Sudionice su rješavale upitnik samoprocjene koji se sastojao od sociodemografskog dijela i sljedećih kliničkih skala: Upitnika zdravstvenog statusa (SF-36), Torontske skale aleksitimije (TAS) i Upitnika obrambenih mehanizama (DSQ-40). Rezultati su pokazali sniženu kvalitetu života kod pacijentica koje boluju od raka dojke, a hijerarhijskom regresijskom analizom utvrđeno je kako su aleksitimija i zreli obrambeni stilovi dobar prediktor u utvrđivanju percepcije općeg zdravlja pacijentica. Uočena je veća učestalost korištenja različitih nezrelih obrambenih mehanizama kod pacijentica s aleksitimijom. U raspravi su dana detaljnija obrazloženja ovih rezultata i implikacije za daljnja istraživanja. Ključne riječi: rak dojke, zdravstvena kvaliteta života, aleksitimija, obrambeni mehanizmi
Remote-sensing-based algorithms for water quality monitoring in Olushandja Dam, north-central Namibia
Authors: Kapalanga Taimi S. , Hoko Zvikomborero , Gumindoga Webster , Chikwiramakomo Loyd
Published: October 2020

Frequent and continuous water quality monitoring of Olushandja Dam in Namibia is needed to inform timely decision making. This study was carried out from November 2014 to June 2015 with Landsat 8 reflectance values and field measured water quality data that were used to develop regression-analysis-based retrieval algorithms. Water quality parameters considered included turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS), nitrates, ammonia, total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP) and total algae counts. Results show that turbidity levels exceeded the recommended limits for raw water for potable water treatment while TN and TP values are within acceptable values. Turbidity, TN, and TP and total algae count showed a medium to strong positive linear relationship between Landsat predicted and measured water quality data while TSS showed a weak linear relationship. The regression coefficients between predicted and measured values were: turbidity (R2 = 0.767); TN (R2 = 0.798,); TP (R2 = 0.907); TSS (R2 = 0.284,) and total algae count (R2 = 0.851). Prediction algorithms are generally the best fit to derive water quality parameters. Remote sensing is recommended for frequent and continuous monitoring of Olushandja Dam as it has the ability to provide rapid information on the spatio-temporal variability of surface water quality.