bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The measurement of ultrasonographic optic nerve sheath diameter in patients with hyperglycemia
Authors: Erol Eda , Kozaci Nalan , Avci Mustafa
Published: December 2019

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is a disease associated with several complications in its acute and chronic stages.

Objective:

The aim of the study was to determine the treatment‐associated changes in optic nerve sheath diameter in patients admitted to the emergency department due to one of the acute hyperglycemic complications of diabetes mellitus.

Materials and method:

Diabetic patients with serum glucose levels of 250 mg/dL or higher were included in the study. Healthy volunteers were included in the control group. Optic nerve sheath diameter was measured at 0th hour and at the end of the second hour. Blood samples were collected simultaneously with optic nerve sheath diameter measurements.

Results:

The study included 100 individuals. Group 1 included 50 patients and Group 2 included 50 healthy adults. Optic nerve sheath diameter was 4.5 ± 0.4 mm in Group 1 and 4.4 ± 0.5 mm in Group 2 in 0th hour, and no statistical difference was found between the groups (p = 0.162). In Group 1, optic nerve sheath diameter increased 0.6 ± 0.4 mm after the treatment. Of the patients in Group 1, 22 (44%) patients with diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state were assigned to Group 1A and 28 (56%) patients with isolated hyperglycemia were assigned to Group 1B. There was not a difference between the pre‐ and post‐treatment optic nerve sheath diameter values of the patients in Group 1A and Group 1B. Optic nerve sheath diameter was observed to enlarge after treatment. The difference in optic nerve sheath diameter was 0.6 ± 0.4 mm in Group 1A and 0.5 ± 0.4 mm in Group 1B (p = 0.294).

Conclusion:

Pre‐treatment optic nerve sheath diameter values of the patients who were diagnosed with one of the acute hyperglycemic complications of diabetes mellitus are not different from healthy adults. Furthermore, optic nerve sheath diameter values do not change with the severity of the disease. However, optic nerve sheath diameter values change with treatment. For this reason, optic nerve sheath diameter can be used to following the development of brain edema.
Consumer Drivers of Industry Growth and Household Loyalty to Private Security Firms in Jamaica
Authors: Haughton Suzette A. , Smith Trevor A. , Berndtsson Joakim
Published: December 2019

Jamaica is the fourth most murderous country in the world with more than 100 murders per 100,000 population. Private security firms have grown to record levels and have outnumbered the police and military combined, thus making private security an extremely important part of the security landscape in the country. This article seeks to explain household loyalty to private security providers and the rapid growth of private policing and protection in the country. Prior research has rarely addressed this issue, particularly in a developing world context. Utilizing a final sample of 108 private security customers in Jamaica and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) for data analysis, the study finds that good relationships between customers and security providers and the service quality offered by private security firms are key drivers of household loyalty. In addition, lack of confidence in the police, service quality offered, and the high levels of “indiscipline” in the Jamaican society are causal to the increased growth in the private security industry.
Description and visualization of the highly dynamic behavior of the electrorheological effect
Authors: Bauerochs Tobias , Huo Xiaoye , Yossifon Gilad , Ulrich Stephan , Schneider Steffen , Bruns Rainer
Published: December 2019

When an electrorheological fluid is located between two electrodes and an electrical voltage is applied to them, the particles in the fluid move and form chains along the electric field lines. This phenomenon is called the electrorheological effect. The exact behavior of the particles has not yet been studied completely. Some optical investigations of particle motion or behavior have been performed, but did not take into account the high dynamic range directly after the application of an electric field. This study is intended to help explain how the particles behave when they encounter an electric field and then try to align themselves with it. There is an investigation into how these chains develop in a microchannel within milliseconds. For this purpose, the particle behavior of the electrorheological fluid is investigated with high dynamic imaging using a microscope. A high-speed camera records videos of the first milliseconds at 3000 fps synchronously with the application of an electric field. The results provide a better understanding of the chain formation and particle behavior of the electrorheological effect in the high dynamic range and can be used for the design of electrorheological applications as well as simulations of the particle movement.
A nonlinear ultrasonic method for real-time bolt looseness monitoring using PZT transducer–enabled vibro-acoustic modulation
Authors: Zhao Nan , Huo Linsheng , Song Gangbing
Published: December 2019

A real-time nonlinear ultrasonic method based on vibro-acoustic modulation is applied to monitor early bolt looseness quantitatively by using piezoceramic transducers. In addition to the ability to detect the early bolt looseness, a major contribution is that we replaced the shaker, which is commonly used in a vibro-acoustic modulation method, by a permanently installed and low-cost lead zirconate titanate patch. In vibro-acoustic modulation, when stimulating two input waves with distinctive frequencies, namely the high-frequency probing wave and the low-frequency pumping wave, the high-frequency probing wave will be modulated by the low-frequency pumping wave to generate sidebands in terms of bolt looseness. Thus, the influence of low-frequency voltage amplitudes on the modulation results, which is ambiguous in previous research, is also analyzed in this article. The results of experiment demonstrated that the lead zirconate titanate–enabled vibro-acoustic modulation method is reliable and easy to implement to identify the bolt looseness continuously and quantitatively. In addition, low-frequency amplitudes of actuating voltage should be selected in a reasonable range. Finally, we compared the vibro-acoustic modulation method with the time-reversal method based on the linear ultrasonic theory, and the result illustrates that vibro-acoustic modulation method has better performance in monitoring the early bolt looseness.
Analysis of the Prevalence and Incidence of Cleft Lip and Palate in Colombia
Authors: Alonso Rengifo Reina Herney , Brigetty Guarnizo Peralta Stefany
Published: December 2019

Objective:

To analyze the population prevalence and birth prevalence of oral clefts in Colombia from 2009 to 2017.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study using information from the National Administrative Records of Colombia. The data came from 2 types of administrative records (Surveillance System and the Individual Registry of Service Provision) and the oral health national survey. Population prevalence and birth prevalence by type of cleft lip and/or cleft (CL/P) ratios were calculated using Poisson distribution for count data and to assess stationary tests on time series (Dickey-Fuller) and (Phillips-Perron) was used.

Results:

Population prevalence in Colombia was 3.27 per 10 000 inhabitants (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.21-3.32) and birth prevalence was 6.0 per 10 000 live births (95% CI, 5.67-6.35). Bogotá have the highest population prevalence with CL/P. In the analysis of trends for the prevalence proportion by type of clefts in newborn babies with cleft, it was observed that the highest proportion was for babies with CLP. Cleft lip (CL) has increased from 17.4% in 2014 to 34.2% in 2017, cleft palate (CP) has decreased from 32.9% to 20.2%; and CLP changed from 49.6% to 45.5% in the same period.

Conclusions:

The population prevalence was 3.27 per 10 000 inhabitants. Births prevalence was 6.0 per 10 000 live births, and Orinoquia and Amazonia have higher rates than the national average. The administrative registers are adequate systems to know the behavior of oral clefts. The CL/P had a nonstationary trend during the period 2014 to 2017.
Integrating Adverse Event Reporting Into a Free-Text Mobile Application Used in Daily Workflow Increases Adverse Event Reporting by Physicians
Authors: Delio Joseph , Catalanotti Jillian S. , Marko Kathryn , Paul Courtney , Taffel Myles , Ho Geoffrey , Berger Jeffrey
Published: December 2019

Adverse event (AE) reporting is a key component of patient safety and physicians are known to underreport. The authors hypothesized that integrating AE reporting into a mobile application used in daily physician workflow would increase physician reporting of AEs. After integrating AE reporting into a free-text mobile application used for daily workflow, the change in AE reporting by physicians was analyzed using Mann-Whitney U tests. AE reporting by physicians increased more than 37-fold (21 to 806; U = 7.5, P < .0001). AE reporting by physicians as a proportion of all AE reports received increased 120-fold (from 0.1% to 12% of all reports, U = 10, P < .0001). Integrating AE reporting into a free-text mobile application used in daily physician workflow markedly increased their reporting of AEs. This approach shifted time burden from physicians to quality officers. Implementation should be coupled with physician education about identifying AEs and content to include in reports.
Stop Worrying (So Much) about Exclusionary Zoning and Fight Our Real Enemies: A Reply to My Critics
Authors: Imbroscio David
Published: December 2019

In this short reply, I attempt to address my critics in the limited space allotted. I show, inter alia, how the Anti–Exclusionary Zoning (Anti-EZ) Project: (1) brutally reproduces White supremacy, rather than subverting it; (2) employs pernicious neoliberal and antidemocratic means to achieve its—at best—inherently modest ends; (3) emanates from and reflects the elitist politics of the liberal professional-managerial class that locks in the neoliberal status quo, instead of building upon the emancipatory potentialities and power of grassroots, street-fighting mobilizations for housing justice and the right to the city; (4) takes massively uneven capitalist development as a given, rather than the object of contestation and resistance; (5) denies lower-income/working-class people of color vital human longings; and (6) embraces the same progrowth mentality fueling the climate crisis. We must stop worrying (so much) about EZ and fight our real enemies: neoliberalism, White supremacy/racial subjugation, elitist skepticism of democracy, and the growth machine.
A pilot study monitoring the thermal comfort of the elderly living in nursing homes in Hefei, China, using wireless sensor networks, site measurements and a survey
Authors: Yu Jingyu , Hassan MD Tanbir , Bai Yongzhen , An Ning , Tam Vivian W. Y.
Published: December 2019

Due to the rapid growth of the ageing population and the shrinking of family size in China, there has been a steady increase in the demand for nursing homes. The Chinese government has encouraged the development of nursing homes. However, there is no clear understanding of the thermal environment of nursing homes and the thermal comfort of their residents. Therefore, this paper describes a pilot study that was undertaken to investigate the thermal comfort of senior residents living in nursing homes. A wireless sensor network system was developed to continuously monitor the thermal environment of nursing homes for an entire year. Site measurements and a questionnaire also were conducted. The results revealed significant seasonal variations in the thermal environment of nursing homes and in the thermal comfort, thermal sensation and adaptive behaviours of older adults. The calculation of thermal comfort was modified according to the older adults’ behaviour patterns. The knowledge acquired in this initial study will enrich knowledge of the thermal comfort of older adults living in nursing homes. It also will provide preliminary insights for caregivers, designers and policymakers in their efforts to deliver a more comfortable, healthy and sustainable environment in nursing homes in China.
The Beginning is never the beginning: Co-producing action research space
Authors: Refstie Hilde
Published: December 2019

Most action research processes aim to improve living conditions, assist in the development of more effective policies or create spaces for mobilization. The outputs of such research tend to be well documented, but less attention has been given to how spaces for action research are formed. This article uses a narrative autobiographical approach to analyse the initial phase of a collaborative action research process with informal settlement groups and their support organizations in Malawi. It discusses how the research topic emerged, the process of identifying entry points, and how negotiations among participants, partners, researchers and institutions at different levels co-produced the action research space. The article concludes that interrogating the multiple beginnings of an action research project can make visible situated knowledges and power relations that influence a research process. A challenge is how to make this interrogation a collaborative exercise that captures the multiple positionalities and perspectives of partners and participants.
The Successful Treatment of Insomnia in a Patient With a Complex Neurological History
Authors: Loveless James P. , Russo Jaclyn M. , Andersen Virginia C.
Published: December 2019

Insomnia is one of the more common sleep–wake disorders from which people suffer. This is particularly true among individuals who have experienced neurological insult via conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, and other neurodegenerative disorders. While cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is one of the most effective behavioral interventions for insomnia, there is a dearth of empirical literature on its application to patients who have a history of neurological disorders. The present case study illustrates a largely successful course of CBT-I to treat a persistent and severe case of insomnia for Eric, a 55-year-old Caucasian man with multiple sclerosis and a self-reported history of restless leg syndrome and stroke. His treatment course is described in detail, and the implications of this approach to care are discussed.
SB5 shows cross-immunogenicity to adalimumab but not infliximab: results in patients with inflammatory bowel disease or rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Goncalves Joao , Myung Gihyun , Park MinJeong , Jeong Deokyoon , Ghil Jeehoon
Published: December 2019

Background:

The primary objective of this study was to analyze the cross-reactivity of antidrug antibodies to reference adalimumab (ADL) and SB5 (adalimumab biosimilar) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods:

Sera from patients with IBD and RA with or without antibodies to adalimumab (ATA+ or ATA–, respectively) were tested for cross-reactivity with SB5 and ADL. Functional inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-α binding was measured. Sera from patients with antibodies to reference infliximab (ATI+) were examined for cross-reactivity to SB5. Sera were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

All 30 anti-ADL ATA+ sera from patients with IBD and all 4 anti-SB5 ATA+ sera from patients with RA were cross-reactive with ADL and SB5 (range of mean concentrations: IBD, 20.99–21.31 μg/ml; RA, 16.46–17.48 μg/ml). In general, there was no significant difference between mean ATA titers. A strong correlation was detected in all ATA+ samples (rho = 0.997 to >0.999; p < 0.001 each). However, ATA– sera were not reactive to either ADL or SB5. anti-ADL ATA+ sera similarly neutralized functional activity of ADL and SB5; no functional inhibition was observed with ATA– sera. ATI+ sera did not cross-react with SB5.

Conclusions:

ADL and SB5 show cross-immunogenicity in sera from patients with IBD or RA, supporting shared immune-dominant epitopes. ATI+ sera did not cross-react with SB5, suggesting different immunogenic epitopes between infliximab and SB5.
Timely and significant call for planetary health promotion
Authors: Tu’itahi Sione , Stoneham Melissa , Ratima Mihi , Simpson Trevor , Signal Louise , Puloka Viliami
Published: December 2019

The 2019 IUHPE Global Health Promotion Conference held in Rotorua New Zealand, provided an unparalleled opportunity to demonstrate the contribution of health promotion to the achievement of planetary health and sustainable development. This brief conference report outlines the intent of the two conference statements and calls for action by health promoters at all levels to integrate these principles into their everyday work.
Benefits of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Gao Yunbo , Wang Chengshuo , Wang Guyan , Cui Xu , Yang Guang , Lou Hongfei , Zhang Luo
Published: December 2019

Background

Although enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have been widely applied during perioperative periods for different diseases, there are few reports of ERAS in patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). This study therefore aimed to evaluate the benefits of ERAS protocol compared to traditional care following ESS.

Methods

A total of 55 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis undergoing ESS were prospectively assigned to 1 of 5 treatment groups; ERAS groups with postoperative intravenous Flubiprofen Axetil or analgesia pump, traditional care with Flubiprofen Axetil or analgesia pump (NERAS groups), or traditional care without postoperative intravenous analgesia group (control). All patients completed the Kolcaba General Comfort Questionnaire, Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale, and Self-rating Anxiety Scale at admission and before discharge. Pain scores were recorded at 2, 6, 24, and 48 hours postsurgery and adverse reactions to analgesics were noted.

Results

Patients in ERAS group demonstrated significantly higher general comfort scores and lower self-rating anxiety scores compared to patients in NERAS and control groups. Compared to control patients, patients in ERAS group reported significantly lower pain scores at 6, 24, and 48 hours. Moreover, pain alleviated from 6 hours postsurgery in ERAS group compared to 48 hours in NERAS group. Patients using opioids experienced more adverse nausea events than patients using only nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Conclusions

The use of patient-tailored ERAS programs following ESS may help to attain higher general comfort and to alleviate perioperative anxiety compared with traditional perioperative care. Adequate postoperative analgesia with NSAIDs in ERAS protocol may alleviate pain earlier with fewer adverse reactions.
Biomarkers in acute graft-versus-host disease: new insights
Authors: Srinagesh Hrishikesh K. , Levine John E. , Ferrara James L.M.
Published: December 2019

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a potentially curative therapy for hematologic malignancies that relies on the graft- versus-leukemia (GVL) effect to eradicate malignant cells. GVL is tightly linked to graft- versus-host disease (GVHD) however, in which donor T cells damage healthy host tissues. Acute GVHD occurs in nearly 50% of patients receiving HCT, and damages the skin, liver, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The organ stages are totaled in an overall grade (I–IV), and severe (grade III/IV) GVHD has a high mortality rate (50–70%). In the past decade, serum biomarkers have emerged as an additional potential measurement of acute GVHD severity. The discovery and validation of GVHD biomarkers is a principal objective of the Mount Sinai Acute GVHD International Consortium (MAGIC), a group of 25 HCT centers conducting GVHD research. MAGIC has validated an algorithm that combines two GI biomarkers (ST2 and REG3α) into a single value that estimates the probability of 6 month nonrelapse mortality (NRM) for individual patients, known as the MAGIC algorithm probability (MAP). The MAP reflects GI crypt damage and serves as a ‘liquid biopsy’ of the lower GI tract; it also predicts response to treatment and maximum GVHD severity and is now commercially available and widely used among scores of centers in clinical practice. The MAP is the focus of this review, with consideration of the categorization of types of biomarkers as defined by the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Influence of visceral adiposity accumulation on adverse left and right ventricular mechanics in the community
Authors: Sawada Naoko , Nakanishi Koki , Daimon Masao , Yoshida Yuriko , Ishiwata Jumpei , Hirokawa Megumi , Nakao Tomoko , Morita Hiroyuki , Di Tullio Marco R , Homma Shunichi , Komuro Issei
Published: December 2019

Aims

Obesity carries significant risk for unfavorable ventricular remodeling and subsequent heart failure (HF) development, although the association between abdominal fat distribution and subclinical ventricular dysfunction is unclear. This study aimed to compare the subcutaneous and visceral abdominal adiposity with the risk of decreased ventricular strain.

Methods

We included 340 participants without overt cardiac disease who underwent laboratory testing, abdominal computed tomographic examination, and speckle-tracking echocardiography. Abdominal adiposity was quantitatively assessed as visceral fat area (VFA) and subcutaneous fat area (SFA) at the level of the umbilicus. Speckle-tracking echocardiography was performed to assess left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) and right ventricular free-wall longitudinal strain (RVLS).

Results

Mean age was 56 ± 9 years, and 244 of the participants (72%) were male. The mean LVGLS and RVLS were −19.1 ± 3.0% and −25.0 ± 4.1%, respectively. Both VFA and SFA correlated with LVGLS (r = 0.46 and r = 0.15, both p < 0.01) and RVLS (r = 0.38 and r = 0.12, both p < 0.05), demonstrating a stronger correlation between VFA and ventricular strain. Multivariable analysis showed that VFA was significantly associated with LVGLS and RVLS, independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors as well as pertinent laboratory and echocardiographic parameters (both p < 0.05), whereas SFA was not. Serum adiponectin level was correlated with LVGLS (r = –0.34, p < 0.001) and RVLS (r = –0.25, p < 0.001), although it lost statistical significance following multivariable adjustment.

Conclusion

In a sample of the general population, VFA, but not SFA, accumulation was significantly associated with decreased LV and RV strain, an association that may be involved in the increased risk of HF in obese individuals.
Radiotriquetral arthrodesis for rheumatoid wrist with flexor tendon rupture: A case report
Authors: Yano Koichi , Kaneshiro Yasunori , Tomita Masuhiro , Miyashima Yusuke , Yagi Hirohisa , Sakanaka Hideki
Published: December 2019

Flexor tendon rupture in the wrist of patients with rheumatoid arthritis is a rare complication, and there is no standard treatment for the wrist joint. Here, we present the case of a rupture of the flexor digitorum profundus of the left index finger owing to a rheumatoid wrist. Plain radiography and computed tomography showed carpal collapse, especially lunate, and arthrosis between the capitate and lunate. For stability and mobility of the wrist and index finger, resection of the lunate and radiotriquetral (RT) arthrodesis using the distal ulna as a bone graft and arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint of the index finger were performed. At 2 years postoperatively, her wrist was painless and stable on radiography without recurrence of tendon rupture, and the arc of motion of the dorsal-palmar flexion of the wrist joint was 125°. RT arthrodesis could be a surgical choice of “mobile” partial wrist arthrodesis.
Protease activity in single-chain prekallikrein
Authors: Ivanov Ivan , Verhamme Ingrid M. , Sun Mao-fu , Mohammed Bassem , Cheng Qiufang , Matafonov Anton , Dickeson S. Kent , Joseph Kusumam , Kaplan Allen P. , Gailani David
Published: December 2019

Prekallikrein (PK) is the precursor of the trypsin-like plasma protease kallikrein (PKa), which cleaves kininogens to release bradykinin and converts the protease precursor factor XII (FXII) to the enzyme FXIIa. PK and FXII undergo reciprocal conversion to their active forms (PKa and FXIIa) by a process that is accelerated by a variety of biological and artificial surfaces. The surface-mediated process is referred to as contact activation. Previously, we showed that FXII expresses a low level of proteolytic activity (independently of FXIIa) that may initiate reciprocal activation with PK. The current study was undertaken to determine whether PK expresses similar activity. Recombinant PK that cannot be converted to PKa was prepared by replacing Arg371 with alanine at the activation cleavage site (PK-R371A, or single-chain PK). Despite being constrained to the single-chain precursor form, PK-R371A cleaves high-molecular-weight kininogen (HK) to release bradykinin with a catalytic efficiency ∼1500-fold lower than that of kallikrein cleavage of HK. In the presence of a surface, PK-R371A converts FXII to FXIIa with a specific activity ∼4 orders of magnitude lower than for PKa cleavage of FXII. These results support the notion that activity intrinsic to PK and FXII can initiate reciprocal activation of FXII and PK in solution or on a surface. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the putative zymogens of many trypsin-like proteases are actually active proteases, explaining their capacity to undergo processes such as autoactivation and to initiate enzyme cascades.
Reinforcing effect of hardwoods on the moment resistance performance of traditional Japanese “nuki”-column joints
Authors: Suesada Hiroto , Miyamoto Kohta , Shibusawa Tatsuya , Aoki Kenji , Inayama Masahiro
Published: December 2019

In traditional Japanese timber structures, nuki-column joints are used as seismic elements. However, the elastic stiffness of their moment resistance performance is rather small. In this research, hardwoods were used for nuki in three ways to improve the performance of the joints. Moment resistance tests of the joints were conducted to evaluate their structural performance and clarify the differences depending on the wood species, the nuki cross sections, and reinforcing effects of hardwoods discussed. In some specifications, it was shown that using hardwoods for nuki improved the structural performance of the joints. A significant effect was observed on some characteristic values of the joints.
MicroRNA-582–3p negatively regulates cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in acute myeloid leukemia by targeting cyclin B2
Authors: Li Haixia , Tian Xuefei , Wang Paoqiu , Huang Mao , Xu Ronghua , Nie Tian
Published: December 2019

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) function as post-transcriptional gene expression regulators. Some miRNAs, including the recently discovered miR-582–3p, have been implicated in leukemogenesis. This study aimed to reveal the biological function of miR-582–3p in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which is one of the most frequently diagnosed hematological malignancies.

Methods

The expression of miR-582–3p was determined using quantitative real-time PCR in blood samples from leukemia patients and in cell lines. Cell proliferation and cell cycle distribution were analyzed using the CCK-8, colony formation and flow cytometry assays. The target gene of miR-582–3p was verified using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. The G2/M phase arrest-related molecule contents were measured using western blotting analysis.

Results

We found miR-582–3p was significantly downregulated in the blood samples from leukemia patients and in the cell lines. MiR-582–3p overexpression significantly impaired cell proliferation and induced G2/M cell cycle arrest in THP-1 cells. Furthermore, cyclin B2 (CCNB2) was confirmed as a target gene of miR-582–3p and found to be negatively regulated by miR-582–3p overexpression. More importantly, CCNB2 knockdown showed suppressive effects on cell proliferation and cell cycle progression similar to those caused by miR-582–3p overexpression. The inhibitory effects of miR-582–3p overexpression on cell proliferation and cell cycle progression were abrogated by CCNB2 transfection.

Conclusion

These findings indicate new functions and mechanisms for miR-582–3p in AML development. Further study could clarify if miR-582–3p and CCNB2 are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of AML.
Upregulation of miR-376c-3p alleviates oxygen–glucose deprivation-induced cell injury by targeting ING5
Authors: Zhang Heng , Zhou Jie , Zhang Mingxia , Yi Yanjie , He Bing
Published: December 2019

Background

The expression level of miR-376c-3p is significantly lower in infants with neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) than in healthy infants. However, the biological function of this microRNA remains largely elusive.

Methods

We used PC-12 and SH-SY5Y cells to establish an oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) cell injury model to mimic HIE in vitro. The miR-376c-3p expression levels were measured using quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry were utilized to evaluate OGD-induced cell injury. The association between miR-376c-3p and inhibitor of growth 5 (ING5) was validated using the luciferase reporter assay. Western blotting was conducted to determine the protein expression of CDK4, cyclin D1, Bcl-2 and Bax.

Results

MiR-376c-3p was significantly downregulated in the OGD-induced cell injury model. Its overexpression elevated cell viability and impaired cell cycle G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis in PC-12 and SH-SY5Y cells after OGD. Downregulation of miR-376c-3p gave the opposite results. We further demonstrated that ING5 was a negatively regulated target gene of miR-376c-3p. Importantly, ING5 knockdown had a similar effect to miR-376c-3p-mediated protective effects against cell injury induced by OGD. Its overexpression abolished these protective effects.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that miR-376c-3p downregulated ING5 to exert protective effects against OGD-induced cell injury in PC-12 and SH-SY5Y cells. This might represent a novel therapeutic approach for neonatal HIE treatment.
Molecular cytogenetics of valuable Arctic and sub-Arctic pasture grass species from the Aveneae/Poeae tribe complex (Poaceae)
Authors: Amosova Alexandra V. , Zoshchuk Svyatoslav A. , Rodionov Alexander V. , Ghukasyan Lilit , Samatadze Tatiana E. , Punina Elizaveta O. , Loskutov Igor G. , Yurkevich Olga Yu. , Muravenko Olga V.
Published: December 2019

Background

Grasslands in the Arctic tundra undergo irreversible degradation due to climatic changes and also over-exploitation and depletion of scarce resources. Comprehensive investigations of cytogenomic structures of valuable Arctic and sub-Arctic grassland species is essential for clarifying their genetic peculiarities and phylogenetic relationships, and also successful developing new forage grass cultivars with high levels of adaptation, stable productivity and longevity. We performed molecular cytogenetic characterization of insufficiently studied pasture grass species (Poaceae) from related genera representing two neighboring clades: 1) Deschampsia and Holcus; 2) Alopecurus, Arctagrostis and Beckmannia, which are the primary fodder resources in the Arctic tundra.

Results

We constructed the integrated schematic maps of distribution of these species in the northern, central and eastern parts of Eurasia based on the currently available data as only scattered data on their occurrence is currently available. The species karyotypes were examined with the use of DAPI-banding, multicolour FISH with 35S rDNA, 5S rDNA and the (GTT)9 microsatellite motif and also sequential rapid multocolour GISH with genomic DNAs of Deschampsia sukatschewii, Deschampsia flexuosa and Holcus lanatus belonging to one of the studied clades. Cytogenomic structures of the species were specified; peculiarities and common features of their genomes were revealed. Different chromosomal rearrangements were detected in Beckmannia syzigachne, Deschampsia cespitosa and D. flexuosa; B chromosomes with distinct DAPI-bands were observed in karyotypes of D. cespitosa and H. lanatus.

Conclusions

The peculiarities of distribution patterns of the examined chromosomal markers and also presence of common homologous DNA repeats in karyotypes of the studies species allowed us to verify their relationships. The obtained unique data on distribution areas and cytogenomic structures of the valuable Arctic and sub-Arctic pasture species are important for further genetic and biotechnological studies and also plant breeding progress.
Evolution and expression of genes encoding TCP transcription factors in Solanum tuberosum reveal the involvement of StTCP23 in plant defence
Authors: Bao Sarina , Zhang Zhenxin , Lian Qun , Sun Qinghua , Zhang Ruofang
Published: December 2019

Background

The plant-specific Teosinte branched1/Cycloidea/Proliferating cell factor (TCP) family of transcription factors is involved in the regulation of cell growth and proliferation, performing diverse functions in plant growth and development. In addition, TCP transcription factors have recently been shown to be targets of pathogenic effectors and are likely to play a vital role in plant immunity. No comprehensive analysis of the TCP family members in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) has been undertaken, however, and whether their functions are conserved in potato remains unknown.

Results

To assess TCP gene evolution in potato, we identified TCP-like genes in several publicly available databases. A total of 23 non-redundant TCP transcription factor-encoding genes were identified in the potato genome and subsequently subjected to a systematic analysis that included determination of their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures and expression profiles in different potato tissues under basal conditions and after hormone treatments. These assays also confirmed the function of the class I TCP StTCP23 in the regulation of plant growth and defence.

Conclusions

This is the first genome-wide study including a systematic analysis of the StTCP gene family in potato. Identification of the possible functions of StTCPs in potato growth and defence provides valuable information for our understanding of the classification and functions of the TCP genes in potato.
Genetic boundaries delineate the potential human pathogen Salmonella bongori into discrete lineages: divergence and speciation
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Zhu Songling , Zhao Jian-Hua , Bao Hong-Xia , Liu Huidi , Ding Tie-Min , Liu Gui-Rong , Li Yong-Guo , Johnston Randal N. , Cao Feng-Lin , Tang Le , Liu Shu-Lin
Published: December 2019

Background

Salmonella bongoriinfect mainly cold-blooded hosts, but infections byS. bongoriin warm-blooded hosts have been reported. We hypothesized thatS. bongorimight have diverged into distinct phylogenetic lineages, with some being able to infect warm-blooded hosts.

Results

To inspect the divergence status ofS. bongori, we first completely sequenced the parakeet isolate RKS3044 and compared it with other sequencedS. bongoristrains. We found that RKS3044 contained a novel T6SS encoded in a pathogenicity island-like structure, in addition to a T6SS encoded in SPI-22, which is common to allS. bongoristrains so far reported. This novel T6SS resembled the SPI-19 T6SS of the warm-blooded host infectingSalmonellaSubgroup I lineages. Genomic sequence comparisons revealed different genomic sequence amelioration events among theS. bongoristrains, including a unique CTAG tetranucleotide degeneration pattern in RKS3044, suggesting non-overlapping gene pools between RKS3044 and otherS. bongorilineages/strains leading to their independent accumulation of genomic variations. We further proved the existence of a clear-cut genetic boundary between RKS3044 and the otherS. bongorilineages/strains analyzed in this study.

Conclusions

The warm-blooded host-infectingS. bongoristrain RKS3044 has diverged with distinct genomic features from otherS. bongoristrains, including a novel T6SS encoded in a previously not reported pathogenicity island-like structure and a unique genomic sequence degeneration pattern. These findings alert cautions about the emergence of new pathogens originating from non-pathogenic ancestors by acquiring specific pathogenic traits.
Using the K/BxN mouse model of endogenous, chronic, rheumatoid arthritis for the evaluation of potential immunoglobulin-based therapeutic agents, including IVIg and Fc-μTP-L309C, a recombinant IgG1 Fc hexamer
Authors: Lewis Bonnie J. B. , Ville Jade , Blacquiere Megan , Cen Selena , Spirig Rolf , Zuercher Adrian W. , Käsermann Fabian , Branch Donald R.
Published: December 2019

Background

High-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), and more recently, subcutaneously-delivered Ig (SCIg), are used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases; however, there are challenges associated with product production, availability, access and efficacy. These challenges have provided incentives to develop a human recombinant Fc as a more potent alternative to IVIg and SCIg for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Recently, a recombinant human IgG1 Fc hexamer (Fc-μTP-L309C) was shown to be more efficacious than IVIg in a variety of autoimmune mouse models. We have now examined its efficacy compared to IVIg and SCIg in the K/BxN mouse model of endogenous, chronic rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Result

Using the serum-transfer K/BxN model and the endogenous autoimmune model, amelioration of the arthritis was achieved. Effective treatment required high and frequent doses of IVIg, SCIg and Fc-μTP-L309C. However, Fc-μTP-L309C was efficacious at 10-fold lower doses that IVIg/SCIg. Also, arthritis could be prevented when Fc-μTP-L309C was given prior to onset of the arthritis in both the endogenous model and in the serum transfer model.

Conclusions

Our results show that Fc-μTP-L309C is a powerful treatment for the prevention and amelioration of severe, chronic arthritis in a true autoimmune mouse model of RA. Thus, the K/BxN endogenous arthritis model should be useful for testing potential therapeutics for RA. Our findings provide rationale for further examination of the treatment efficacy of immunoglobulin-based therapeutics in rheumatoid arthritis.
Household cockroaches carry CTX-M-15-, OXA-48- and NDM-1-producing enterobacteria, and share beta-lactam resistance determinants with humans
Authors: Obeng-Nkrumah Noah , Labi Appiah-Korang , Blankson Harriet , Awuah-Mensah Georgina , Oduro-Mensah Daniel , Anum Judelove , Teye James , Kwashie Solomon Dzidzornu , Bako Evariste , Ayeh-Kumi Patrick Ferdinand , Asmah Richard
Published: December 2019

Background

This study was designed to investigate whether household cockroaches harbor cephalosporin-resistant enterobacteria that share resistance determinants with human inhabitants. From February through July 2016, whole cockroach homogenates and human fecal samples from 100 households were cultured for cephalosporin-resistant enterobacteria (CRe). The CRe were examined for plasmid-mediated AmpC, ESBL, and carbapenemase genes; antibiotic susceptibility patterns; and conjugative transfer of antibiotic resistance mechanisms. Clonal associations between CRe were determined by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST).

Results

Twenty CRe were recovered from whole cockroach homogenates from 15 households. The prevalence of households with cockroaches that harbored CRe, AmpC- (based on phenotype, with no identifiable blaAmpC genes), ESBL-, and carbapenemase-producers were 15, 4, 5%(2 blaCTX-M-15/TEM-1; 1 blaCTX-M-15/TEM-4; 1 blaTEM-24; 1 blaSHV-4) and 3%(2 blaNDM-1 genes and 1 blaOXA-48 gene), respectively. Overall, 20 CRe were recovered from 61 fecal samples of inhabitants from all 15 households that had cockroach samples positive for CRe. Of these, 5CRe (1 per household) were positive for ESBLs (blaTEM-24, blaTEM-14, blaCTX-M-15/TEM-4, blaSHV-3, blaCTX-M-15/TEM-1) and none carried AmpCs or carbapenemases. From 4% of households, the pair of cockroach and human CRe shared the same sequence type (ST), clonal complex (CC), antibiogram, and conjugable bla gene sequence (house 34, E. coli ST9/CC20-blaTEM-4; house 37, E. coli ST44/CC10-blaCTX-15/TEM-4; house 41, E. coli ST443/CC205-blaCTX-15/TEM-1; house 49, K. pneumoniae ST231/CC131-blaSHV-13).

Conclusion

The findings provide evidence that household cockroaches may carry CTX-M-15-, OXA-48- and NDM-1-producers, and share clonal relationship and beta-lactam resistance determinants with humans.
Diagnostic error in the emergency department: learning from national patient safety incident report analysis
Authors: Hussain Faris , Cooper Alison , Carson-Stevens Andrew , Donaldson Liam , Hibbert Peter , Hughes Thomas , Edwards Adrian
Published: December 2019

Background

Diagnostic error occurs more frequently in the emergency department than in regular in-patient hospital care. We sought to characterise the nature of reported diagnostic error in hospital emergency departments in England and Wales from 2013 to 2015 and to identify the priority areas for intervention to reduce their occurrence.

Methods

A cross-sectional mixed-methods design using an exploratory descriptive analysis and thematic analysis of patient safety incident reports. Primary data were extracted from a national database of patient safety incidents. Reports were filtered for emergency department settings, diagnostic error (as classified by the reporter), from 2013 to 2015. These were analysed for the chain of events, contributory factors and harm outcomes.

Results

There were 2288 cases of confirmed diagnostic error: 1973 (86%) delayed and 315 (14%) wrong diagnoses. One in seven incidents were reported to have severe harm or death. Fractures were the most common condition (44%), with cervical-spine and neck of femur the most frequent types. Other common conditions included myocardial infarctions (7%) and intracranial bleeds (6%). Incidents involving both delayed and wrong diagnoses were associated with insufficient assessment, misinterpretation of diagnostic investigations and failure to order investigations. Contributory factors were predominantly human factors, including staff mistakes, healthcare professionals’ inadequate skillset or knowledge and not following protocols.

Conclusions

Systems modifications are needed that provide clinicians with better support in performing patient assessment and investigation interpretation. Interventions to reduce diagnostic error need to be evaluated in the emergency department setting, and could include standardised checklists, structured reporting and technological investigation improvements.
The role of primary healthcare physicians in violence against Women intervention program in Indonesia
Authors: Purwaningtyas Nuretha Hevy , Wiwaha Guswan , Setiawati Elsa Pudji , Arya Insi Farisa Desy
Published: December 2019

Background

Violence against women (VAW) has many impacts on health, but the role of the primary healthcare physicians in the intervention program is lacking. This research aimed to explore the primary healthcare physician role in a comprehensive intervention program of VAW in Malang City, Indonesia.

Methods

This qualitative research was conducted using a phenomenology approach. A focused group discussion followed by in-depth interviews were carried out involving six primary healthcare physicians in Puskesmas (Primary Healthcare Center) and two stakeholders. Legal document related to VAW was reviewed to measure up the role of the primary healthcare physicians.

Result

Our study revealed that the role of physicians in primary healthcare centers on the VAW intervention program was limited. This was due to the insufficient knowledge of the physicians on the VAW program, physicians’ constraint on counseling skill, unsupportive infrastructure, and a limited number of physicians in Puskesmas. Some barriers related to the VAW program management were also discovered and needed intervention at the decision-maker level.

Conclusion

The role of primary healthcare physicians in the comprehensive intervention of the VAW program is not optimum. The source of the problem involves the physician capability and program management aspects in all levels of decision-makers. Local government awareness and commitment are needed to improve the overall management of the VAW intervention program in this city.
Standardising the measurement of physical activity in people receiving haemodialysis: considerations for research and practice
Authors: Young Hannah M. L. , Orme Mark W. , Song Yan , Dungey Maurice , Burton James O. , Smith Alice C. , Singh Sally J.
Published: December 2019

Background

Physical activity (PA) is exceptionally low amongst the haemodialysis (HD) population, and physical inactivity is a powerful predictor of mortality, making it a prime focus for intervention. Objective measurement of PA using accelerometers is increasing, but standard reporting guidelines essential to effectively evaluate, compare and synthesise the effects of PA interventions are lacking. This study aims to (i) determine the measurement and processing guidance required to ensure representative PA data amongst a diverse HD population, and; (ii) to assess adherence to PA monitor wear amongst HD patients.

Methods

Clinically stable HD patients from the UK and China wore a SenseWear Armband accelerometer for 7 days. Step count between days (HD, Weekday, Weekend) were compared using repeated measures ANCOVA. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) determined reliability (≥0.80 acceptable). Spearman-Brown prophecy formula, in conjunction with a priori ≥  80% sample size retention, identified the minimum number of days required for representative PA data.

Results

Seventy-seven patients (64% men, mean ± SD age 56 ± 14 years, median (interquartile range) time on HD 40 (19–72) months, 40% Chinese, 60% British) participated. Participants took fewer steps on HD days compared with non-HD weekdays and weekend days (3402 [95% CI 2665–4140], 4914 [95% CI 3940–5887], 4633 [95% CI 3558–5707] steps/day, respectively, p < 0.001). PA on HD days were less variable than non-HD days, (ICC 0.723–0.839 versus 0.559–0.611) with ≥ 1 HD day and ≥  3 non-HD days required to provide representative data. Using these criteria, the most stringent wear-time retaining ≥ 80% of the sample was ≥7 h.

Conclusions

At group level, a wear-time of ≥7 h on ≥1HD day and ≥ 3 non-HD days is required to provide reliable PA data whilst retaining an acceptable sample size. PA is low across both HD and non- HD days and future research should focus on interventions designed to increase physical activity in both the intra and interdialytic period.