bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of fatigue on health-related quality of life and illness perception in a monocentric cohort of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Elefante Elena , Tani Chiara , Stagnaro Chiara , Ferro Francesco , Parma Alice , Carli Linda , Signorini Viola , Zucchi Dina , Peta Umberto , Santoni Adele , Raffaelli Leonardo , Mosca Marta
Published: February 2020

Background

Fatigue is a very common and debilitating symptom in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), even among those with a mild or inactive disease. The objective of this study is to define fatigue determinants and describe the impact of fatigue on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and illness perception in a monocentric cohort of patients with SLE.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. Adult patients with SLE were included. For each patient, demographics, medications, comorbidities, organ damage (Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics Damage Index), active disease manifestations and Systemic Lupus Disease Activity Index scores were collected. It was evaluated if each patient met the definitions of remission and low disease activity. At enrolment, each patient completed the Short Form-36 (SF-36), Functional Assessment Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F), Lupus Impact Tracker (LIT), Systemic Lupus Activity Questionnaire (SLAQ) and Brief Index of Lupus Damage (BILD). The FACIT-F questionnaire was also administered to a group of healthy controls.

Results

223 patients were included (mean age 44.9±13.2 years, median disease duration 13 years). 18.2% had an active disease, 43.5% met the definition of remission on treatment, and 11.8% had a concomitant fibromyalgia. The median FACIT-F score of our cohort was significantly lower compared with that of healthy controls (40 vs 47; p<0.001). FACIT-F scores were irrespective of age, disease duration, disease activity and damage. FACIT-F score was significantly lower in patients with fibromyalgia (p<0.01). FACIT-F scores demonstrated a significant correlation with all other patient-reported outcomes: SF-36 (r=0.53–0.77), LIT (r=−0.78), SLAQ (r=−0.72) and BILD (r=−0.28).

Conclusions

Fatigue in patients with SLE has a strong negative impact on HRQoL and patient perception of the disease burden. Fatigue seems irrespective of disease activity but significantly influenced by the presence of fibromyalgia.
Hydromagnetic squeezed and extruded flow of conducting fluid with convective boundary conditions
Authors: Jha Basant K. , Malgwi Peter B.
Published: February 2020

This work investigates the time-dependent squeezed and extruded flow of viscous incompressible and electrically conducting fluid between two convective parallel plates under an impressed transversely applied magnetic field. The governing nonlinear partial differential equations are reduced to dimensionless form using some selected dimensionless parameters and solved numerically in Matlab. A detail analysis illustrating the influence of various governing parameters like extrusion, squeezing, Eckert, Hartmann number, dimensionless time and Biot number on fluid velocity, normal fluid velocity, temperature, rate of heat transfer and local coefficient of skin friction are highlighted and discussed. The results reveal that rate of heat transfer and coefficient of local skin friction can be optimized by increasing/decreasing the squeezing parameter. Also, the result also reveal that increasing the extrusion parameter and the Hartmann number reduces the rate of heat transfer and enhances the coefficient of local skin efriction.
Digital Democracy
Authors: Noveck Beth Simone , Cerf Vinton G.
Published: February 2020

In this 2019 interview, Vint Cerf, co-creator of the Internet, reflects on the evolution of the Internet from a computational to a social medium. He shares his concerns about the spread of disinformation and the way that the negative feedback loop created by rating systems encourage the propagation of sensationalism and falsehoods. He argues that, while authentication technology, in particular, will play an important role in fostering a more civil and civic Internet, ultimately, the solutions for strengthening democracy lie less with technology than in critical thinking by individuals and more democratically governed, bottom-up, and consensus-based institutions. Some of these institutions already exist while new ones have yet to be invented with robust new governance mechanisms to foster international collaboration on some of the hardest issues of our time.
Sensory information from a slipping object elicits a rapid and automatic shoulder response
Authors: Hernandez-Castillo Carlos R. , Maeda Rodrigo S. , Pruszynski J. Andrew , Diedrichsen Jörn
Published: February 2020

Humans have the remarkable ability to hold, grasp, and manipulate objects. Previous work has reported rapid and coordinated reactions in hand and shoulder muscles in response to external perturbations to the arm during object manipulation; however, little is known about how somatosensory feedback of an object slipping in the hand influences responses of the arm. We built a handheld device to stimulate the sensation of slipping at all five fingertips. The device was integrated into an exoskeleton robot that supported it against gravity. The setup allowed us to decouple somatosensory stimulation in the fingers from forces applied to the arm, two variables that are highly interdependent in real-world scenarios. Fourteen participants performed three experiments in which we measured their arm feedback responses during slip stimulation. Slip stimulations were applied horizontally in one of two directions, and participants were instructed to either follow the slip direction or move the arm in the opposite direction. Participants showed shoulder muscle responses within ∼67 ms of slip onset when following the direction of slip but significantly slower responses when instructed to move in the opposite direction. Shoulder responses were modulated by the speed but not the distance of the slip. Finally, when slip stimulation was combined with mechanical perturbations to the arm, we found that sensory information from the fingertips significantly modulated the shoulder feedback responses. Overall, the results demonstrate the existence of a rapid feedback system that stabilizes handheld objects.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We tested whether the sensation of an object slipping from the fingers modulates shoulder feedback responses. We found rapid shoulder feedback responses when participants were instructed to follow the slip direction with the arm. Shoulder responses following mechanical joint perturbations were also potentiated when combined with slipping. These results demonstrate the existence of fast and automatic feedback responses in the arm in reaction to sensory input to the fingertips that maintain grip on handheld objects.
Evaluating Fly Ash‐Based Geopolymers as a Modifier for Asphalt Binders
Authors: Hamid Abdulrahman , Alfaidi Hamed , Baaj Hassan , El-Hakim Mohab
Published: February 2020

Severe Canadian winter conditions and growing traffic volumes are vital factors resulting in a reduction of the service life of flexible pavements. Researchers and engineers strived to develop several additives to develop balanced asphalt mixers capable of resisting distresses that caused deterioration of flexible pavements in Canada. In this study, a critical literature review regarding the use of geopolymers and their application in construction materials is provided. Moreover, an experimental matrix of laboratory testing was conducted to study the rheological and microstructural properties of the PG 58‐28 asphalt binder, with different percentages (0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%) of geopolymer. The effect of geopolymer‐curing time on rheological properties was investigated. Rotational viscometer, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) imaging devices were used to compare the performance of control binder with a binder with different percentages of geopolymers. Results indicated that the increase in the geopolymer content and the curing time affect the rheological behavior of the asphalt binder by increasing its viscosity, complex shear modulus, and failure temperature. Samples with higher geopolymer percentage exhibited better performance in terms of rutting resistance. Moreover, an increase in the failure temperature of modified asphalt binder with 9% geopolymer is recorded as 8.58%, 14.2%, and 15.2% for curing times of 2, 7, and 14 days, respectively, compared with virgin asphalt. Furthermore, the nanoparticles appear to be well dispersed in the binder, and increasing the percentage of the geopolymer does not seem to affect the microstructure of the binder. Overall research conclusion is that geopolymer application resulted in a potential enhancement of some of the properties of the asphalt binder.
LRRK2 Mutations and Asian Disease-Associated Variants in the First Parkinson’s Disease Cohort from Kazakhstan
Authors: Kaiyrzhanov Rauan , Aitkulova Akbota , Shashkin Chingiz , Zharkinbekova Nazira , Rizig Mie , Zholdybayeva Elena , Jarmukhanov Zharkyn , Akhmetzhanov Vadim , Kaishibayeva Gulnaz , Khaibullin Talgat , Karimova Altynay , Akshulakov Serik , Bralov Askhat , Kissamedenov Nurlan , Seidinova Zhanar , Taskinbayeva Anjela , Muratbaikyzy Aliya , Houlden Henry
Published: February 2020

Background. LRRK2 mutations have emerged as the most prevalent and potentially treatable determinants of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Peculiar geographic distribution of these mutations has triggered an interest in genotyping PD cohorts of different ethnic backgrounds for LRRK.Objective. Here, we report on the results of LRRK2 screening in the first Central Asian PD cohort.Methods. 246 PD patients were consecutively recruited by movement disorder specialists from four medical centers in Kazakhstan, and clinicodemographic data and genomic DNA from blood were systematically obtained and shipped to the Institute of Neurology University College London together with DNAs from 200 healthy controls. The cohort was genotyped for five LRRK2 mutations (p.Gly2019Ser, p.Arg1441His, p.Tyr1699Cys, p.Ile2020Thr, and p.Asn1437His) and three East Asian disease-associated variants (p.Gly2385Arg, p.Ala419Val, and p.Arg1628Pro) via Kompetitive allele-specific polymerase chain reaction assay analysis.Results. None of the study subjects carried LRRK2 mutations, whereas the following Asian variants were found with insignificant odds ratios (OR): p.Gly2385Arg (1.2%, minor allele frequency (MAF) 0.007, OR 1.25,p=0.8), p.Ala419Val (3.7%, MAF 0.02, OR 1.5,p=0.4), and p.Arg1628Pro was found only in 1% of controls. p.Gly2385Arg was positive in a big family with PD and tremor, although with incomplete segregation. One early-onset PD subject was homozygous for p.Ala419Val who developed fast progression and severe dyskinesias. p.Ala419Val was associated with early-onset PD.Conclusions. We showed that East Asian LRRK variants could be found in Central Asian populations but their pathogenicity remains to be elucidated in larger PD cohorts.
Personality Factors and Subjective Cognitive Decline: The FACEHBI Cohort
Authors: Muñoz Nathalia , Gomà-i-Freixanet Montserrat , Valero Sergi , Rodríguez-Gómez Octavio , Sanabria Angela , Pérez-Cordón Alba , Hernández Isabel , Marquié Marta , Mir Iolao , Martín Elvira , Benaque Alba , Ruiz Agustín , Tarraga Lluís , Boada Mercè , Alegret Montserrat , on behalf of the FACEHBI study
Published: February 2020

Individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) have the perception of memory problems without showing impairment on standardized cognitive tests. SCD has been associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Neuroticism and openness personality dimensions have also been associated with SCD and AD. From the aforementioned, we aimed to ascertain whether the dimensions and traits defined by the Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire (ZKPQ) differentiate between individuals with SCD and the general population (GP). A total of 187 participants with SCD and mild affective symptomatology recruited from the Fundació ACE Health Brain Initiative (FACEHBI) project completed the ZKPQ. Each SCD participant was matched by sex and age to an individual from the GP. Both samples included 71 men and 116 women with a mean age of 65.9 years. Results indicated that the SCD group scored significantly lower in Neuroticism-Anxiety and Activity than the GP group. Only Activity remained statistically significant in a multivariate analysis. These findings suggest that individuals with SCD have a low energy level and a dislike for an active and busy life. From the obtained results and knowing additional physical activities may delay the conversion from normal aging to cognitive impairment, we encourage promoting this lifestyle in daily routine. The assessment of personality may result in an SCD plus feature, which may serve as an upgrading strategy for future research.
Chrysophyllum cainito: A Tropical Fruit with Multiple Health Benefits
Authors: Doan Hau V. , Le Thao P.
Published: February 2020

Chrysophyllum cainito is a tropical fruit tree with multiple benefits to human health. C. cainito possesses strong antioxidant properties either in vitro or in vivo. Extracts from the leaves, stem bark, fruits, peel, pulp, or seed of C. cainito are promising candidates in traditional medicine for curing diabetes and fighting against bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. C. cainito leaf extract alone or in a complex formula exhibits anti‐inflammatory responses by reducing hypersensitivity, acts as inflammatory markers, and has antinociceptive effects. The leaf extract also increases wound healing speed and assists in regulating fat uptake. In addition, the C. cainito fruit shows anticancer activity against osteosarcoma. In conclusion, the aerial parts of C. cainito have strong beneficial biological effects on human health.
Prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome among Medical Students of Karachi: An Experience from a Developing Country
Authors: Ishaq M. , Riaz S. U. , Iqbal N. , Siddiqui S. , Moin A. , Sajjad S. , Ali T. , Jamali S.
Published: February 2020

Background. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an uncomfortable sensation in the legs which gets worse in the evening or night, relieved upon movement. The aim of this study was to specify the prevalence of RLS in the group of young medical students and to assess the effect of RLS on sleep, as sleep disturbance is one of the chief complaints of RLS patients. We also studied its association with smoking as it is considered an aggravating factor. Method. This was a cross-sectional study conducted from June 2017 to July 2018 in Karachi. A total of 300 students (220 females and 80 males) participated and were given questionnaires to detect RLS based on criteria proposed by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group. Subjects who were positive for RLS were further asked questions about sleep by using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and severity of RLS by using RLS Rating Scale. They were also asked about their smoking status. Results. The frequency of RLS is 8% among young adults. Out of 300 medical students, 24 students were classified positive for RLS with a female preponderance (66.7% were females and 33.3% were males). The severity of RLS was more rated to be mild to moderate. The effect of RLS on sleep was in the mild range. The p value of smoking status comparing with gender came out to be <0.001, and p value of RLS is 0.773. Conclusion. It is concluded that we found RLS to be present significantly in our population that is without comorbidities. Our results showed female preponderance and a mild sleep disturbance in our study population. More attention is needed to recognize RLS and to manage the aggravating factors of RLS.
Green and Reliable Freight Routing Problem in the Road-Rail Intermodal Transportation Network with Uncertain Parameters: A Fuzzy Goal Programming Approach
Authors: Sun Yan
Published: February 2020

In this study, the author focuses on modeling and optimizing a freight routing problem in a road-rail intermodal transportation network that combines the hub-and-spoke and point-to-point structures. The operations of road transportation are time flexible, while rail transportation has fixed departure times. The reliability of the routing is improved by modeling the uncertainty of the road-rail intermodal transportation network. Parameters that are influenced by the real-time status of the network, including capacities, travel times, loading and unloading times, and container trains’ fixed departure times, are considered uncertain in the routing decision-making. Based on fuzzy set theory, triangular fuzzy numbers are employed to formulate the uncertain parameters as well as resulting uncertain variables. Green routing is also discussed by treating the minimization of carbon dioxide emissions as an objective. First of all, a multiobjective fuzzy mixed integer nonlinear programming model is established for the specific reliable and green routing problem. Then, defuzzification, linearization, and weighted sum method are implemented to present a crisp linear model whose global optimum solutions can be effectively obtained by the exact solution algorithm run by mathematical programming software. Finally, a numerical case is given to demonstrate how the proposed methods work. In the case, sensitivity analysis is adopted to reveal the effects of uncertainty on the routing optimization. Fuzzy simulation is then performed to help decision makers to select the best crisp route plan by determining the best confidence level shown in the fuzzy chance constraints.
Prediction of Mining Subsidence in Shallow Coal Seam
Authors: Li Gang , Yang Qinghe
Published: February 2020

Theoretical calculation, numerical simulation, and field measurement were combined to study the recovery of coal resources in the 5th pan area of Dianping Coal Mine without damaging surface buildings. A mathematical model was established to predict the settlement range and displacement of the surface after coal mining. The FLAC3D5.0 program was used to simulate the evolution law of the overburden strata under the coal mining conditions of the study area. The lateral influence range was 45.8 m and 42.4 m, and the maximum surface subsidence was 2.604 m and 2.78 m, respectively. The mining boundary of the 5-210 working face was designed using the result of the simulation program. Real-time dynamic observation data collected from 18 surface displacement monitoring points measured surface subsidence as 2.69 m. The civil construction protection area was not deformed. The working face provided safe recovery of 1,471,446,000 kg of coal, resulting in significant economic and social benefits.
Influence of Graphene Oxide on Interfacial Transition Zone of Mortar
Authors: Sun Hongfang , Ren Zhili , Ling Li , Memon Shazim Ali , Ren Jie , Liu Bing , Xing Feng
Published: February 2020

In this paper, the influence of graphene oxide (GO) on the microstructure of interfacial transition zone (ITZ) in cement mortar was investigated through image analysis (IA) of backscattered electron (BSE) micrographs. The results showed that the incorporation of GO significantly reduced the thickness of ITZ. The porosity in ITZ and bulk paste decreased due to the introduction of GO; meanwhile, the compressive strength of the mortar samples was improved. The addition of GO also narrowed the gap between the porosity of ITZ and bulk paste, and therefore, the entire microstructure of mortar became more homogenous. Based on the above results, the model to predict the compressive strength of mortar was modified for better precision. The improved prediction model indicated that the difference between the compressive strength of ITZ and bulk paste was reduced upon the refinement of ITZ by GO.
Composition Operators on Some Banach Spaces of Harmonic Mappings
Authors: Aljuaid Munirah , Colonna Flavia
Published: February 2020

We study the composition operators on Banach spaces of harmonic mappings that extend several well-known Banach spaces of analytic functions on the open unit disk in the complex plane, including the α-Bloch spaces, the growth spaces, the Zygmund space, the analytic Besov spaces, and the space BMOA.
Improving Clinical Nurses’ Development of Supervision Skills through an Action Learning Approach
Authors: Sommer Irene , Larsen Karin , Nielsen Carsten M. , Stenholt Britta V. , Bjørk Ida Torunn
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate action learning as an implementation method in a large-scale project with many participants in several autonomous and geographically spread groups. The focus of the implementation was the Model of Practical Skill Performance as a learning and supervision tool in the clinical education of nursing students. Nineteen action learning groups were established, and a total of 129 clinical supervisors and 13 facilitators were involved. To evaluate the implementation process, qualitative data were generated through three focus group interviews, questionnaires, and notes. Data illuminate clinical supervisors’ perceptions of value, impact, and sustainability when they participate in an action learning group to become familiar with the Model of Practical Skill Performance. The deductive data analysis was guided by central concepts from action learning. Action learning proved to be an engaging and effective tool in the implementation where the main strength seemed to be the autonomous local group supporting collective reflections on actions. Clinical supervisors had the right competences to adopt a reflective process-oriented approach, which is the hallmark of action learning. This study shows the necessity of collaboration between stakeholders in practice, education, and management to implement large-scale projects in clinical practice. The findings imply that managers should choose participants on the basis of their motivation and their voluntary wish to participate and that nurses’ immersion in the project over time aids implementation.
Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Nonreceptor Type 2 Expression Does Not Correlate with Viral Load or Response to Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy in Hepatitis C Virus Infections-Infected Patients
Authors: Sabev Max , Blümel Sena , Lang Silvia , Gottier Claudia , Weber Achim , Mertens Joachim , Müllhaupt Beat , Scharl Michael , Spalinger Marianne R.
Published: February 2020

Background/Aims: The hepatitis C virus nonstructural 3/4A protease has been shown to cleave protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 2 (PTPN2, also known as T cell protein tyrosine phosphatase), thereby inducing a shift from a Th1 toward a nonantiviral Th2 immunity. Ribavirin therapy reverses these effects and supports direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy as an immunomodulatory compound and ultimately improves the response to DAA therapy. Here we aimed to assess whether intrahepatic levels of PTPN2 might be used as a clinical prognostic marker for the response to DAA therapy. Methods: Liver biopsies from hepatitis C virus-infected patients with and without cirrhosis were immunohistochemically stained for PTPN2 and scored for staining intensity as well as percentage of hepatocytes positive for nuclear PTPN2 localization. PTPN2 scores were correlated to sustained virologic response after DAA therapy, viral load, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score at the time of liver biopsy. Results: We did not detect a difference in intrahepatic PTPN2 levels between responders with cirrhosis, responders without cirrhosis, and nonresponders to DAA therapy. There was no correlation between intrahepatic PTPN2 levels and viral load or clinical markers such as liver transaminases, GGT, or the MELD score. Conclusion: Intrahepatic PTPN2 levels assessed via IHC staining do not represent a clinical prognostic marker for the response to DAA therapy.
Integral Treatment Programme for Addicted Physicians: Results from The Galatea Care Programme for Sick Physicians
Authors: Bruguera Eugeni , Heredia Meritxell , Llavayol Enric , Pujol Tania , Nieva Gemma , Valero Sergi , Casas Miquel , Braquehais Maria Dolores
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Addictions among physicians are a matter of public health interest because of their negative impact on the physician’s well-being and the potential risk of malpractice. Physicians’ Health Programmes (PHP) have been developed in several countries to address this issue. Although they share some similarities, they differ in organisational and clinical aspects. Objective: This study aimed to describe the clinical outcomes of the Integral Treatment Programme for Addicted Physicians of The Galatea Care Programme for Sick Physicians (PAIMM). Methods: A prospective naturalistic longitudinal study was conducted using data from electronic medical records of 126 physicians registered at the Barcelona Medical Association-Council and admitted to the PAIMM between 2008 and 2016. All patients received addiction treatment supervised by a specialised team with individual visits (psychiatrist and psychologist), had regular and random drug screening, attended a 3-step intervention with 2 intensive initial phases and 2–5 year weekly group psychotherapy, and were monitored when they returned to practice. Results: All admitted physicians completed the intensive intervention, and 87.3% were subsequently monitored. The mean treatment length was 48 months. Overall, 72.2% of sick physicians remained abstinent at last contact. Good adherence to follow-up psychotherapy groups predicted both lower risk of lapse during the treatment process and higher rates of abstinence at follow-up. Conclusions: Initial intensive treatment, long-term follow-up and drug screening, group therapy attendance, and a case management approach are common factors that may explain the positive clinical outcomes for physicians with addictions in treatment at PHPs, regardless of the country.
Untangling the type collection and recircunscription of Pseudolaelia corcovadensis: a threatened orchid species from Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest

Authors: WÄNGLER MARILIA S. , MENEGUZZO THIAGO E. C. , VAN DEN BERG CÁSSIO , BAUMGRATZ JOSÉ FERNANDO A.
Published: February 2020

Understanding the composition of the type specimen of Pseudolaelia corcovadensis is very important for establishing its taxonomic circumscription. This specimen, originally collected on the Morro do Corcovado in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, within the Atlantic Forest biome, were mixed with those of another species of Pseudolaelia. A careful study of the specimens has made it possible to propose the lectotypification of P. corcovadensis and determine the identity of the mixed specimen, which corresponds to P. vellozicola, a similar species. The morphological description and geographical distribution, now more restricted, are presented for P. corcovadensis, and the range of P. vellozicola is established as more extensive than previously understood.
Relationship Between 25-Hydroxyvitamin D, Renin, and Collagen Remodeling Biomarkers in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Patel Dimpi , Druck Aleksander , Hoppensteadt Debra , Bansal Vinod , Brailovsky Yevgeniy , Syed Mushabbar , Fareed Jawed
Published: February 2020

The interplay between vitamin D, the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), and collagen remodeling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases. This study sought to explore this relationship in atrial fibrillation (AF) by profiling plasma levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, RAS biomarkers, and collagen remodeling biomarkers using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. We hypothesized that 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels would inversely correlate with RAS biomarkers and that levels of RAS and collagen remodeling biomarkers would positively correlate with each other. Although our AF cohort (n = 37) did not exhibit decreased 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels compared to normal controls (n = 26), these levels inversely correlated with renin (Spearman r = −0.57, P = 0.005). Renin levels were elevated in patients with AF compared to normal controls (1233 ± 238 ng/mL vs 401 ± 27 ng/mL, P = 0.0002) and positively correlated with levels of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1; Spearman r = 0.89, P = 0.01) and MMP-2 (Spearman r = 0.82, P = 0.03). These data suggest that 25-hydroxyvitamin D may influence RAS activation, and renin may help mediate the collagen remodeling process in AF. Understanding mediators of RAS dysregulation in AF may elucidate targets for therapeutic intervention to prevent collagen remodeling.
A New Pathway to University Retention? Identity Fusion With University Predicts Retention Independently of Grades
Authors: Talaifar Sanaz , Ashokkumar Ashwini , Pennebaker James W. , Medrano Fortunato N. , Yeager David S. , Swann William B.
Published: February 2020

Individuals who are “strongly fused” with a group view the group as self-defining. As such, they should be particularly reluctant to leave it. For the first time, we investigate the implications of identity fusion for university retention. We found that students who were strongly fused with their university (+1 SD) were 7–9% points more likely than weakly fused students (−1 SD) to remain in school up to a year later. Fusion with university predicted subsequent retention in four samples ( N = 3,193) and held while controlling for demographics, personality, prior academic performance, and belonging uncertainty. Interestingly, fusion with university was largely unrelated to grades, suggesting that identity fusion provides a novel pathway to retention independent of established pathways like academic performance. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
The filling defect of pulmonary artery, an imaging finding what we should know
Authors: Liu Min , Tao Xin Cao , Zhai Zhenguo , Ma Zhanhong , Zhu Li , Luo Jie
Published: February 2020

The most common cause of pulmonary artery filling defects on computed tomography pulmonary angiography or magnetic resonance imaging is pulmonary thromboembolism, but not infrequently, the presentation of this finding lacks specificity. Given that the morbidity and mortality associated with pulmonary thromboembolism is high, proper diagnosis of the condition is essential. Unusual or more rarely encountered etiologies must be considered when clinical manifestations and imaging findings are inconsistent. With this review, our purpose is to describe possible causes of pulmonary arterial filling defects. We aim to provide clinicians with a comprehensive list of differential diagnoses to facilitate a measured approach to the assessment of pulmonary arterial filling defects on computed tomography pulmonary angiography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Patient-reported long-term quality of life after tisagenlecleucel in relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Maziarz Richard T. , Waller Edmund K. , Jaeger Ulrich , Fleury Isabelle , McGuirk Joseph , Holte Harald , Jaglowski Samantha , Schuster Stephen J. , Bishop Michael R. , Westin Jason R. , Mielke Stephan , Teshima Takanori , Bachanova Veronika , Foley Stephen R. , Borchmann Peter , Salles Gilles A. , Zhang Jie , Tiwari Ranjan , Pacaud Lida B. , Ma Qiufei , Tam Constantine S.
Published: February 2020

The JULIET phase 2 trial evaluated a single infusion of tisagenlecleucel in adult patients with relapsed/refractory (r/r) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The objective of the current analysis was to evaluate patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) with a median follow-up of 19.3 months among patients infused with a single dose of tisagenlecleucel. Patients enrolled were ≥18 years of age with r/r DLBCL after ≥2 lines of therapy and had either undergone a failed autologous stem cell transplant or were ineligible for the procedure. Two validated HRQoL instruments, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lymphoma (FACT-Lym) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey, were used to measure HRQoL at baseline and months 3, 6, 12, and 18. At data cutoff (21 May 2018), 115 patients had received tisagenlecleucel infusion. Among the 99 patients evaluated, overall response rate was 54%, and 40% of patients achieved complete response (CR). Initially, 108 patients completed the HRQoL assessments at baseline, including 57 patients who eventually achieved CR or partial response (PR). Further, 30 and 21 patients in clinical response who completed assessments at baseline also completed assessments at months 12 and 18, respectively. Patients who achieved CR or PR sustained HRQoL improvement in all FACT scores at all time points. SF-36 instruments showed improvement above the minimal clinically important differences on 5 of 8 subscales. Long-term follow-up in the phase 2 JULIET study demonstrated that patients with r/r DLBCL who respond to tisagenlecleucel therapy had sustained, clinically meaningful improvements in HRQoL. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02445248.
Genome-wide analysis of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in two contrasting rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) genotypes subjected to drought stress and re-watering
Authors: Tan Xiaoyu , Li Su , Hu Liyong , Zhang Chunlei
Published: February 2020

Background

Drought stress is a major abiotic factor that affects rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) productivity. Though previous studies indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a key role in response to drought stress, a scheme for genome-wide identification and characterization of lncRNAs’ response to drought stress is still lacking, especially in the case of B. napus. In order to further understand the molecular mechanism of the response of B. napus to drought stress, we compared changes in the transcriptome between Q2 (a drought-tolerant genotype) and Qinyou8 (a drought-sensitive genotype) responding drought stress and rehydration treatment at the seedling stage.

Results

A total of 5546 down-regulated and 6997 up-regulated mRNAs were detected in Q2 compared with 7824 and 10,251 in Qinyou8, respectively; 369 down-regulated and 108 up- regulated lncRNAs were detected in Q2 compared with 449 and 257 in Qinyou8, respectively. LncRNA-mRNA interaction network analysis indicated that the co-expression network of Q2 was composed of 145 network nodes and 5175 connections, while the co-expression network of Qinyou8 was composed of 305 network nodes and 22,327 connections. We further identified 34 transcription factors (TFs) corresponding to 126 differentially expressed lncRNAs in Q2, and 45 TFs corresponding to 359 differentially expressed lncRNAs in Qinyou8. Differential expression analysis of lncRNAs indicated that up- and down-regulated mRNAs co-expressed with lncRNAs participated in different metabolic pathways and were involved in different regulatory mechanisms in the two genotypes. Notably, some lncRNAs were co-expressed with BnaC07g44670D, which are associated with plant hormone signal transduction. Additionally, some mRNAs co-located with XLOC_052298, XLOC_094954 and XLOC_012868 were mainly categorized as signal transport and defense/stress response.

Conclusions

The results of this study increased our understanding of expression characterization of rapeseed lncRNAs in response to drought stress and re-watering, which would be useful to provide a reference for the further study of the function and action mechanisms of lncRNAs under drought stress and re-watering.
Validation of a modified version of the Spanish Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI-SP) for adults and elder people
Authors: Aguirre-Bustamante Javiera , Barón-López Francisco Javier , Carmona-González Francisco Jesús , Pérez-Farinós Napoleón , Wärnberg Julia
Published: February 2020

Background

The Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) was developed and validated in 1990 and translated into Spanish in 1999. Since then, the original version has been used in numerous studies, but it has not been re-evaluated in terms of language in the new generations of older adults. The purpose of this study is to confirm the validity of the Spanish version of the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI-SP) after three decades to be used as part of an ongoing field trial.

Methods

The GOHAI-SP was pilot tested in a focus group to confirm linguistic comprehension. A version with minor language changes was administered to individuals with metabolic syndrome aged 55–75 years from one health care district in southern Spain as part of an ongoing field trial (PREDIMED-Plus). Clinical evaluation included assessment of dental and periodontal status. The psychometric properties of the GOHAI-SP were evaluated through stability and internal consistency measures, and concurrent and discriminant validity were assessed.

Results

The new version of the GOHAI-SP was administered to 100 individuals. The application time was reduced by 7 min. The alpha value for reliability was 0.87. The item-scale correlation coefficients ranged from 0.54 to 0.75, and the test–re-test correlation for the total score was 0.75. There were inverse correlations between GOHAI-SP scores and the number of lost teeth and the decayed-missing-filled teeth index (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The GOHAI-SP questionnaire remains a valid and useful tool to assess oral health-related quality of life in primary health care settings. A linguistic update of the questionnaire brought improvements to the instrument application.

Trial registration

The PREDIMED-Plus trial is registered in the ISRCTN registry with reference numberISRCTN89898870. Registration date: 4th July 2014.
Knowledge, uptake of preconception care and associated factors among reproductive age group women in West Shewa zone, Ethiopia, 2018
Authors: Fekene Daniel Belema , Woldeyes Benyam Seifu , Erena Maru Mossisa , Demisse Getu Alemu
Published: February 2020

Background

Preconception care is a set of interventions that are to be provided before pregnancy, to promrote the health and well-being of womwen and couples .

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was employed among a sample of 680 reproductive-aged women in the West Shewa zone, Oromia regional state, from November 2017 until the end of January 2018. The data were collected using a pre-tested and structured questionnaire. The collected data were coded and entered into Epi data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS 22 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were utilized to determine factors associated with the outcome variable. The association was presented in odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and significance determined at aP-value less than 0.05.

Result

A total of 669 participants had participated with a response rate of 98.3%. Among the respondants, only 179 (26.8%) had a good knowledge of PCC and 97 (14.5%) of them had utilized PCC. Factors that show significant association with good knowledge of PCC are history of institutional delivery (AOR = 1.43 (95%CI (1.31–7.33), PNC service utilization, (AOR = 5.02 (95%CI (3.22–7.84), history of using modern contraceptive, (AOR = 1.44 (95%CI (1.37–6.98) higher educational status (AOR = 4.12 (95%CI (1.22–6.52) and being regularly employed (AOR = 1.8 (95%CI (1.01–3.22). Factors like better family monthly income (AOR = 4.1 (95%CI (1.57–9.35), history of PNC (AOR = 6.33 (95%CI (3.94–10.17) and good knowledge of PCC (AOR = 4.3 (95%CI (2.67–6.98) had shown positive association towards the uptake of PCC.

Conclusion and recommendation

This study found that only one-quarter of the women in the study has good knowledge of PCC and low uptake of PCC. History of institutional delivery, PNC service utilization, history of using a modern contraceptive, educational status and being regularly employed were factors that affect knowledge of PCC and family income, having good knowledge about PCC and history of PNC were affect the uptake of PCC.Therefore, PCC needs serious attention from the government and other stakeholders.
Action research and health system strengthening: the case of the health sector support programme in Mauritania, West Africa
Authors: Accoe Kirsten , Marchal Bruno , Gnokane Yahya , Abdellahi Dieng , Bossyns Paul , Criel Bart
Published: February 2020

Background

Access to qualitative and equitable healthcare is a major challenge in Mauritania. In order to support the country’s efforts, a health sector strengthening programme was set up with participatory action research at its core. Reinforcing a health system requires a customised and comprehensive approach to face the complexity inherent to health systems. Yet, limited knowledge is available on how policies could enhance the performance of the system and how multi-stakeholder efforts could give rise to changes in health policy. We aimed to analyse the ongoing participatory action research and, more specifically, see in how far action research as an embedded research approach could contribute to strengthening health systems.

Methods

We adopted a single-case study design, based on two subunits of analysis, i.e., two selected districts. Qualitative data were collected by analysing country and programme documents, conducting 12 semi-structured interviews and performing participatory observations. Interviewees were selected based on their current position and participation in the programme. The data analysis was designed to address the objectives of the study, but evolved according to emerging insights and through triangulation and identification of emergent and/or recurrent themes along the process.

Results

An evaluation of the progress made in the two districts indicates that continuous capacity-building and empowerment efforts through a participative approach have been key elements to enhance dialogue between, and ownership of, the actors at the local health system level. However, the strong hierarchical structure of the Mauritanian health system and its low level of decentralisation constituted substantial barriers to innovation. Other constraints were sociocultural and organisational in nature. Poor work ethics due to a weak environmental support system played an important role. While aiming for an alignment between the flexible iterative approach of action research and the prevailing national linear planning process is quite challenging, effects on policy formulation and implementation were not observed. An adequate time frame, the engagement of proactive leaders, maintenance of a sustained dialogue and a pragmatic, flexible approach could further facilitate the process of change.

Conclusion

Our study showcases that the action research approach used in Mauritania can usher local and national actors towards change within the health system strengthening programme when certain conditions are met. An inclusive, participatory approach generates dynamics of engagement that can facilitate ownership and strengthen capacity. Continuous evaluation is needed to measure how these processes can further develop and presume a possible effect at policy level.
Zinc promotes cell apoptosis via activating the Wnt-3a/β-catenin signaling pathway in osteosarcoma
Authors: Gao Kai , Zhang Yingchun , Niu Jianbing , Nie Zhikui , Liu Qingsheng , Lv Chaoliang
Published: February 2020

Background

The zinc content in the blood and tumor tissues of patients with osteosarcoma and the underlying regulation and molecular mechanism of zinc have not been reported.

Methods and results

This study showed that the zinc content in the blood and tumor tissues of patients with osteosarcoma significantly reduced. CCK-8 and Transwell chamber assays revealed that zinc treatment significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasion abilities of osteosarcoma cells. Western blot analysis indicated that the expression levels of caspase-3 and caspase-9 were significantly increased, suggesting that zinc inhibited the growth and promoted the apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells. In addition, the expression levels of Wnt-3a and β-catenin, the marker proteins of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways, were significantly increased in osteosarcoma cells after zinc intervention, which demonstrated that the pathway was clearly activated. However, the effect of zinc on the apoptosis, proliferation, and invasion abilities of osteosarcoma cells was reversed when the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways was inhibited by XAV939 (Wnt antagonist) treatment.

Conclusions

This study is the first to report the changes in zinc levels in the blood and tumor tissues of patients with osteosarcoma and to preliminarily verify that zinc inhibits the proliferation and invasion and promote the apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells by inducing the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which ultimately inhibit cancer growth.
Correction to: Breed susceptibility for common surgically treated orthopaedic diseases in 12 dog breeds
Authors: Boge Gudrun Seeberg , Moldal Elena Regine , Dimopoulou Maria , Skjerve Eystein , Bergström Annika
Published: February 2020

After publication of our article [1] we were notified that due to an error in the excel formula used to summarise the control population, the ID-registry data from the Swedish county Gävleborg was not included in the calculations. When including Gävleborg, as intended, the numbers in the adjusted Swedish control population change slightly. It does not influence the Norwegian control population.
Can learning about trials be child’s play? A qualitative exploration of the ‘Schools Teaching Awareness of Randomised Trials’ (START) initiative
Authors: Biesty Linda , Galvin Sandra , Finucane Elaine , Healy Patricia , Devane Declan , Conway Tom
Published: February 2020

Background

The Health Research Board-Trials Methodology Research Network (HRB-TMRN) celebrates International Clinical Trials Day with the help of the younger members of our community through the Network’s ‘Schools Teaching Awareness of Randomised Trials (START)’ initiative. START seeks to increase public awareness of randomised trials in Ireland. Launched in 2016, it asks children (8–12 years old) to conduct and report their very own fun randomised trial. The study reported in this paper sought to explore children and teachers perceptions and experiences of the START initiative.

Methods

We conducted eight, one-to one interviews with teachers and eight focus groups with 61 children who took part in the 2018 START initiative. Interviews and focus groups were recorded and transcribed and the data analysed using template analysis.

Results

The findings of this study highlight the benefits of participating in START and the areas of the initiative that required further attention. Teachers and children recalled the benefits of experiential learning associated with START and learning by doing encouraged a fun way of engaging with trial processes. By recalling all aspects of planning, conducting and reporting their trial, the children in this study demonstrated their awareness of the trial processes. The teachers suggested that START provides a valuable framework to contribute to key aspects of the primary school curriculum in Ireland. The experiences of these participants also provided recommendation for improving the programme for future START participants.

Conclusions

Increasing public awareness and understanding of randomised trials can help increase public engagement in trials. By educating children about the importance of trials and supporting them to ‘learn by doing’ by carrying out their own trial, the START initiative can contribute substantially to children’s awareness and understanding of trial processes. Given that children are the public, the patients and the researchers of the future, initiatives such as START deserve attention.