bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The value of Bayesian predictive projection for variable selection: an example of selecting lifestyle predictors of young adult well-being
Authors: Bartonicek A. , Wickham S. R. , Pat N. , Conner T. S.
Published: April 2021

Background

Variable selection is an important issue in many fields such as public health and psychology. Researchers often gather data on many variables of interest and then are faced with two challenging goals: building an accurate model with few predictors, and making probabilistic statements (inference) about this model. Unfortunately, it is currently difficult to attain these goals with the two most popular methods for variable selection methods: stepwise selection and LASSO. The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the use predictive projection feature selection – a novel Bayesian variable selection method that delivers both predictive power and inference. We apply predictive projection to a sample of New Zealand young adults, use it to build a compact model for predicting well-being, and compare it to other variable selection methods.

Methods

The sample consisted of 791 young adults (ages 18 to 25, 71.7% female) living in Dunedin, New Zealand who had taken part in the Daily Life Study in 2013–2014. Participants completed a 13-day online daily diary assessment of their well-being and a range of lifestyle variables (e.g., sleep, physical activity, diet variables). The participants’ diary data was averaged across days and analyzed cross-sectionally to identify predictors of average flourishing. Predictive projection was used to select as few predictors as necessary to approximate the predictive accuracy of a reference model with all 28 predictors. Predictive projection was also compared to other variable selection methods, including stepwise selection and LASSO.

Results

Three predictors were sufficient to approximate the predictions of the reference model: higher sleep quality, less trouble concentrating, and more servings of fruit. The performance of the projected submodel generalized well. Compared to other variable selection methods, predictive projection produced models with either matching or slightly worse performance; however, this performance was achieved with much fewer predictors.

Conclusion

Predictive projection was used to efficiently arrive at a compact model with good predictive accuracy. The predictors selected into the submodel – felt refreshed after waking up, had less trouble concentrating, and ate more servings of fruit – were all theoretically meaningful. Our findings showcase the utility of predictive projection in a practical variable selection problem.
Sickness absence and disability pension among women with breast cancer: a population-based cohort study from Sweden
Authors: Kvillemo Pia K. , Chen Lingjing , Bottai Matteo , Frumento Paolo , Almondo Gino , Mittendorfer-Rutz Ellenor , Friberg Emilie , Alexanderson Kristina A. E.
Published: April 2021

Background

Women’s return to work after diagnosis of breast cancer (BC) is becoming more prevalent. However, register-based national investigation on sickness absence (SA) and disability pension (DP) in BC women is lacking. The aim of the study was to explore SA and DP before and after a first BC diagnosis and the possibility to predict new cancer-related SA by using disease-related and sociodemographic factors.

Methods

A longitudinal register study of the 3536 women in Sweden aged 19–64 with a first BC diagnosis in 2010 was conducted by linkage of five nationwide registers. Particularly, detailed information on SA and DP was obtained from the National Social Insurance Agency. Descriptive statistics on SA and DP 2 years before through 3 years after the BC diagnosis were performed. The risk of having a new SA spell due to BC or BC-related diagnoses was modeled using logistic regression.

Results

The proportion of women with SA increased during the year following the BC diagnosis date and declined over the next 2 years to proportions before diagnosis. At the time of BC diagnosis, half of the women began a new SA spell > 14 days with cancer, cancer-related, or mental diagnosis. Disease-related and sociodemographic factors including occupational sector, living area, age, cancer stage, educational level, and number of previous SA days showed statistical significance (p < 0.05) in predicting a new SA around BC diagnosis. By using these factors, it was possible to correctly predict 67% of the new SA spell.

Conclusions

SA among women with BC was elevated mainly in the first year after diagnosis. New SA following BC diagnosis can accurately be predicted.
The efficacy and safety of indocyanine green-hyaluronic acid mixture (LuminoMark™) for localization in patients with non-palpable breast lesions: a multi-center open-label parallel phase-2 clinical trial
Authors: Kim Isaac , Choi Hee Jun , Ryu Jai Min , Lee Se Kyung , Yu Jong Han , Lee Jeong Eon , Nam Seok Jin , Shin Hyuk Jai , Kim Seok Won
Published: April 2021

Background

Increasing rates of breast cancer screening have been associated with an increasing frequency of non-palpable breast lesions detection. Preoperative breast lesion localization is essential for optimizing excision accuracy. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of indocyanine green (ICG) hyaluronic acid injection as a novel mixture for localization.

Methods

We performed a prospective clinical trial with female patients who underwent surgery for non-palpable breast lesions. All patients were sequentially assigned to the control group (localization with activated charcoal), Test Group 1 (ICG-hyaluronic acid mixture 0.1 mL), or Test Group 2 (ICG-hyaluronic acid mixture 0.2 mL) by 1:1:1 ratio.

Results

A total of 44 patients were eligible for this study (Control Group = 14, Test Group 1 = 15, Test Group 2 = 15 patients). Fibroadenoma (n = 17, 38.6%) accounted for the largest proportion of diagnoses, and five patients (11.4%) were diagnosed with malignancies. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics among the three groups. The marking rate was over 86% in all groups, with no significant intergroup differences. Skin pigmentation was only observed in the control group. The mean accuracy of resection (the greatest diameter of the excised specimen divided by the greatest diameter of the preoperative lesion as observed using ultrasonography, with values closer to 1 reflecting a higher accuracy) was 3.7 in the control group, 2.2 in Test Group 1, and 2.1 in Test Group 2 (p = 0.037 between Controls and Test Group 1, p = 0.744 between Test Group 1 and Test Group 2, and p = 0.026 between Controls and Test Group 2).

Conclusion

ICG-hyaluronic acid injection is a novel method that was shown to accurately localize non-palpable breast lesions and was associated with no skin pigmentation. Further research is required to apply this method to malignant breast lesions.

Trial registration “A Multicenter Open-label, Parallel, Phase 2 Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of LuminoMark™ Inj. (Conc. for Fluorescence) Localization in Patients with Non-palpable Breast Lesions” was prospectively registered as a trial (ClinicalTrials. gov Identifier: NCT03743259, date of registration: May 29, 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03743259)
Risk factors for postoperative nausea and vomiting after the removal of impacted third molars: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hasegawa Hiroaki , Abe Atsushi , Hayashi Hiroki , Furuta Hiroshi , Ishihama Takanori
Published: April 2021

Background

A better understanding of the risk factors for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) could improve patient outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors for PONV and its onset after third molar impaction surgery, and to demonstrate the importance of controlling anesthesia-related factors regardless of patient-specific factors.

Methods

We included patients who reported nausea and vomiting within 12 h of extubation. Patients with incomplete data, those who could not communicate, and those with gastrointestinal disorders were excluded. We evaluated patient-specific risk factors, and the use of volatile anesthetics and intraoperative fentanyl anesthetic-related factors. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed taking patient background factors into account.

Results

In total, 182 patients who underwent disimpaction of the third molar under general anesthesia between January 2017 and December 2018 at Nagoya Ekisaikai Hospital, were included. Approximately 12.6% (n = 23) patients experienced PONV, with no significant difference in terms of sex, smoking status, age, and body mass index compared to patients without PONV. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed no interaction between fentanyl and volatile anesthetics. The major risk factor for PONV was the use of volatile anesthetics. Patients in whom anesthesia was maintained by volatile anesthetics were 13.35 times more likely to have PONV than those in whom total intravenous anesthesia was induced (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Maintenance of anesthesia with volatile anesthetics is a risk factor for PONV.
Survey of the triple-mentoring program for students at a religious medical school
Authors: Tseng Ting-Chun , Chen Tsung-Ying , Chu Shao-Yin , Wang Hung-Che , Chang Ching-Yuan
Published: April 2021

Background

Tzu Chi University in Taiwan offers a unique mentoring program. This program differs from others as it comprises triple mentorship, namely, faculty mentors, Tzu Cheng/Yi De (TC/YD; senior volunteers), and school counselors. This study aimed to survey the role functions of the mentors from the perspective of medical students.

Methods

The Role Functions of the Mentoring Program Scale (RFMPS) was developed on the basis of literature reviews and focus groups and it underwent exploratory factor analysis for internal consistency and reliability. RFMPS comprises four role functions, namely, mental, educational, career, and humanistic/moral guidance counseling. The survey was distributed to 171 medical students via an online network with two-month intervals and was analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance.

Results

The overall response rate was 64% (116/171). The mean scores of the four role functions in descending order belonged to faculty mentors, TC/YD, and school counselors. For humanistic/moral guidance, students had an equal preference for the faculty mentors and TC/YD over school counselors. As for educational, career, and mental guidance counseling, students preferred faculty mentors over TC/YD and school counselors. Faculty mentors provided students with the required guidance counseling for all the four role functions, especially educational guidance; TC/YD in particular offered prominent humanistic/moral guidance and career counseling; school counselors were less preferred but guided students in need.

Conclusions

Medical students value different role functions provided by faculty mentors, TC/YD, and school counselors. A diversified focus could be provided by the faculty mentors, particularly in educational, career, mental, and humanistic/moral counseling; TC/YD specialized in humanistic/moral guidance; and the school counselors carried out their role function only when needed. Humanistic/moral guidance is equally preferred to other types of guidance, which can be equally valuable in future mentoring programs.
Using Markov chain model to evaluate medical students’ trajectory on progress tests and predict USMLE step 1 scores---a retrospective cohort study in one medical school
Authors: Wang Ling , Laird-Fick Heather S. , Parker Carol J. , Solomon David
Published: April 2021

Background

Medical students must meet curricular expectations and pass national licensing examinations to become physicians. However, no previous studies explicitly modeled stages of medical students acquiring basic science knowledge. In this study, we employed an innovative statistical model to characterize students’ growth using progress testing results over time and predict licensing examination performance.

Methods

All students matriculated from 2016 to 2017 in our medical school with USMLE Step 1 test scores were included in this retrospective cohort study (N = 358). Markov chain method was employed to: 1) identify latent states of acquiring scientific knowledge based on progress tests and 2) estimate students’ transition probabilities between states. The primary outcome of this study, United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 performance, were predicted based on students’ estimated probabilities in each latent state identified by Markov chain model.

Results

Four latent states were identified based on students’ progress test results: Novice, Advanced Beginner I, Advanced Beginner II and Competent States. At the end of the first year, students predicted to remain in the Novice state had lower mean Step 1 scores compared to those in the Competent state (209, SD = 14.8 versus 255, SD = 10.8 respectively) and had more first attempt failures (11.5% versus 0%). On regression analysis, it is found that at the end of the first year, if there was 10% higher chance staying in Novice State, Step 1 scores will be predicted 2.0 points lower (95% CI: 0.85–2.81 with P < .01); while 10% higher chance in Competent State, Step 1scores will be predicted 4.3 points higher (95% CI: 2.92–5.19 with P < .01). Similar findings were also found at the end of second year medical school.

Conclusions

Using the Markov chain model to analyze longitudinal progress test performance offers a flexible and effective estimation method to identify students’ transitions across latent stages for acquiring scientific knowledge. The results can help identify students who are at-risk for licensing examination failure and may benefit from targeted academic support.
S-ketamine and intranasal application: alternatives for the castration of male suckling piglets?
Authors: Becker Sabrina , Maier Anna , Peters Saskia , Büttner Kathrin , Reiner Gerald
Published: April 2021

Background

The intramuscular injection of ketamine and azaperone was proposed as a suitable anaesthesia for male suckling piglets for surgical castration. However, this can be opposed by massive defensive movements, hypothermia and tachycardia during castration and a long recovery period. The aim of the present study was to test whether the use of S-ketamine and/or a change in the route of application from intramuscular to intranasal could reduce stress responses and the duration of recovery compared to the intramuscular route and the use of racemic ketamine. Seventy-eight healthy, five-day-old male piglets were randomized to six treatment groups in a blinded experimental study, matched by litter and weight. Experimental groups were A (15 mg kg-1 S-ketamine + 2 mg kg-1 azaperone, i.m., surgical castration), B (15 mg kg-1 R/S-ketamine racemate + 2 mg kg-1 azaperone, i.m., surgical castration), C (30 mg kg-1 S-ketamine + 2 mg kg-1 azaperone, i.n., surgical castration), D (15 mg kg-1 R/S-ketamine racemate + 2 mg kg-1 azaperone, i.m.; not castrated), E (positive control group; no anesthesia, surgical castration) and F (negative control group; no anesthesia, not castrated).

Results

S-ketamine reduced the defensive movement score during castration to a similar extent to racemic ketamine when administered intramuscularly but not via the intranasal route. However, the effects of S-ketamine (both routes) on the increase in cortisol levels and decrease in body temperature were similar to those induced by racemic ketamine. A reduction of the long recovery time known for ketamine-azaperone anaesthesia could not be achieved with S-ketamine in the given dosage, regardless of the route of application. The intranasal administration of ketamine was difficult with the available formulation as the necessary amount exceeded the capacity of the nose cavity.

Conclusions

Neither the use of S-ketamine nor intranasal administration can be suitable alternatives for the anaesthesia of male suckling piglets for castration.
The informed consent process in health research with under-served populations: a realist review protocol
Authors: Hoverd Eleanor , Staniszewska Sophie , Dale Jeremy
Published: April 2021

Background

The informed consent process aims to provide potential participants with information about health research that enables them to make an informed decision as to whether they choose to participate, or not. However, it remains unclear as to whether the process is effective for those who are under-served in health research. It is a pivotal issue within health research that the diversity of people who participate is broadened. The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) pledges to support equality, diversity and inclusion, actively creating opportunities for all citizens whom are eligible, to take part in health research.

Methods

In order to understand how the informed consent process for under-served populations in health research works, under what circumstances and in what respects, a realist review approach will be undertaken. Searches will be carried out using electronic databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web of Science and PsycINFO), along with selected websites and grey literature. Development of initial rough programme theory(ies) will lead to a more refined programme theory that will provide an explanation of context, mechanism and outcomes. Stakeholder involvement by NIHR (Public) Research Champions, health professionals and clinical academics will provide expert opinion about concepts and programme theory.

Discussion

Findings of this realist review will highlight how the informed consent process in health research affects the experience and decision-making process of potential participants from under-served populations. They will be written up in accordance with RAMESES guidelines and disseminated to patients and the public, health researchers, health professionals and policymakers through peer-reviewed publication, presentations and discussions. The review will contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms that cause both positive and negative outcomes in the informed consent process for those whom are often under-represented in health research to inform policy, study design and delivery.
Extruded breakfast meal from malted finger millet (Eleusine coracana) and watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) seed flour: in-vivo nutritional qualities study
Authors: Owheruo Joseph Oghenewogaga , Oluwajuyitan Timilehin David , Ifesan Beatrice Olawunmi , Bolade Matthew Kolawole
Published: April 2021

Background

The study aimed at evaluating the in-vivo nutritional qualities of extruded breakfast meal produced from flour blends of malted finger millet and watermelon seed.

Results

The proximate compositions of the flour blends revealed that there was progressive increase in protein (12.83–15.14) %, with increase in the watermelon substitution. The protein quality evaluation of the extrudate showed that the protein efficiency ratio ranged from 0.64 to 89.75, while the biological values were between (87.82–89.75)%. The relative organs weight of rats fed with extruded breakfast meal showed that, the weights of the kidney and liver of rats fed with extruded breakfast meal were significantly lower compared with rats fed with goldenmorn. The hematological indices showed that the packed cell volume and the red blood cell counts of rats fed with the formulated diets were significantly lower compared with those fed  with goldenmorn but significantly higher than rats fed with basal. Meanwhile, the values of the white blood cells count for the formulated diet shows no significant difference compared with rats fed with goldenmorn.

Conclusions

Evidently, the growth performance of the rats fed with the extruded breakfast meal revealed that the formulated diets promote growth status of the animals with relatively low effect on organs of experimental rat used in this study. Hence, formulated diet may serve as alternative to expensive commercial breakfast meal.
Depressive symptoms are associated with impaired sleep, fatigue, and disease activity in women with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lopes Fernando Henrique Azevedo , Freitas Max Victor Carioca , de Bruin Veralice Meireles Sales , de Bruin Pedro Felipe Carvalhedo
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To investigate the associations between sleep quality, fatigue, disease activity and depressive symptoms in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Female patients with previous diagnosis of RA from a Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic at a tertiary referral centre, in Fortaleza, Brazil, were consecutively recruited into the study. Sleep quality was assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI); fatigue by the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS); daytime sleepiness by the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS); and depressive symptoms by the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II). RA activity was measured by the disease activity score (DAS28).

Results

One hundred ten women (mean age ± SD = 51.1 ± 13.0 y) were included in the study. On average, patients with depressive symptoms (BDI-II > 13), as compared to those without, showed poorer sleep quality (PSQI: 10.09 ± 4.1 vs 7.33 ± 3.55; p = 0.001 respectively), more fatigue (FSS: 4.69 ± 1.89 vs 3.34 ± 1.8; p = 0.001) and higher disease activity level (DAS28: 4.36 ± 1.53 vs 3.7 ± 1.39; p = 0,047). The logistic regression analysis showed that sleep quality is an independent predictor of depressive symptom severity.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms, impaired sleep and fatigue are common in women with RA. Poor sleep is associated with greater frequency and severity of depressive symptoms in these patients, suggesting that screening for sleep and mood problems may be relevant both in clinical research and routine patient care. Future studies investigating the impact of measures to promote healthy sleep on depressive symptom control in this patient population are warranted.
ChannelSeg3D: Channel simulation and deep learning for channel interpretation in 3D seismic images
Authors: Gao Hang , Wu Xinming , Liu Guofeng
Published: April 2021

Seismic channel interpretation involves detecting channel structures, which often appear as meandering shapes in 3D seismic images. Many conventional methods are proposed for delineating channel structures using different seismic attributes. However, these methods are often sensitive to seismic discontinuities (e.g., noise and faults) that are not related to channels. We have adopted a convolutional neural network (CNN) method to improve automatic channel interpretation. The key problem in applying the CNN method into channel interpretation is the absence of labeled field seismic images for training the CNNs. To solve this problem, we adopt a workflow to automatically generate numerous synthetic training data sets with realistic channel structures. In this workflow, we first randomly simulate various meandering channel models based on geologic numerical simulation. We further simulate structural deformation in the form of stratigraphic folding referred to as “folding structures” and combine them with the previously generated channel models to create reflectivity models and the corresponding channel labels. Convolved with a wavelet, the reflectivity models can be transformed into learnable synthetic seismic volumes. By training the designed CNN with synthetic seismic data, we obtain a CNN that learns the characterization of channel structures. Although trained on only synthetic seismic volumes, this CNN shows outstanding performance on field seismic volumes. This indicates that the synthetic seismic images created in this workflow are realistic enough to train the CNN for channel interpretation in field seismic images.
Tackling Diversity in Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials: A Report From the Diversity Working Group of the IRONMAN Registry
Authors: McKay Rana R. , Gold Theresa , Zarif Jelani C. , Chowdhury-Paulino Ilkania M. , Friedant Adam , Gerke Travis , Grant Marie , Hawthorne Kelly , Heath Elisabeth , Huang Franklin W. , Jackson Maria D. , Mahal Brandon , Ogbeide Osarenren , Paich Kellie , Ragin Camille , Rencsok Emily M. , Simmons Stacey , Yates Clayton , Vinson Jake , Kantoff Philip W. , George Daniel J. , Mucci Lorelei A.
Published: April 2021

Prostate cancer disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority populations. Reasons for disparate outcomes among minority patients are multifaceted and complex, involving factors at the patient, provider, and system levels. Although advancements in our understanding of disease biology have led to novel therapeutics for men with advanced prostate cancer, including the introduction of biomarker-driven therapeutics, pivotal translational studies and clinical trials are underrepresented by minority populations. Despite attempts to bridge the disparities gap, there remains an unmet need to expand minority engagement and participation in clinical trials to better define the impact of therapy on efficacy outcomes, quality of life, and role of biomarkers in diverse patient populations. The IRONMAN registry (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03151629 ), a global, prospective, population-based study, was borne from this unmet medical need to address persistent gaps in our knowledge of advanced prostate cancer. Through integrated collection of clinical outcomes, patient-reported outcomes, epidemiologic data, and biospecimens, IRONMAN has the goal of expanding our understanding of how and why prostate cancer outcomes differ by race and ethnicity. To this end, the Diversity Working Group of the IRONMAN registry has developed informed strategies for site selection, recruitment, engagement and retention, and trial design and eligibility criteria to ensure broad inclusion and needs awareness of minority participants. In concert with systematic strategies to tackle the complex levels of disparate care, our ultimate goal is to expand minority engagement in clinical research and bridge the disparities gap in prostate cancer care.
Health-Related Quality of Life With Trastuzumab Monotherapy Versus Trastuzumab Plus Standard Chemotherapy as Adjuvant Therapy in Older Patients With HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Taira Naruto , Sawaki Masataka , Uemura Yukari , Saito Tsuyoshi , Baba Shinichi , Kobayashi Kokoro , Kawashima Hiroaki , Tsuneizumi Michiko , Sagawa Noriko , Bando Hiroko , Takahashi Masato , Yamaguchi Miki , Takashima Tsutomu , Nakayama Takahiro , Kashiwaba Masahiro , Mizuno Toshiro , Yamamoto Yutaka , Iwata Hiroji , Ohashi Yasuo , Mukai Hirofumi , Kawahara Takuya ,   for the RESPECT Study Group
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE

We report findings on quality of life (QoL) in the RESPECT trial, which compared adjuvant trastuzumab monotherapy with trastuzumab plus chemotherapy in older patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer (BC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients age 70-80 years with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive surgically treated breast cancer were randomly assigned to receive trastuzumab (T) or trastuzumab plus chemotherapy (T + C). QoL was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G), Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Patient Neurotoxicity Questionnaire, and Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence at baseline and after 2, 12, and 36 months. Comparisons were based on individual changes from baseline and were performed by Fisher’s test or mixed-model repeated-measures.

RESULTS

Among 275 patients in the parent study, 231 (84%) (average age: 74 years) were included in the analysis. At 2, 12, and 36 months, 198, 177, and 178 patients completed surveys, and the mean FACT-G scores at each survey point were 78.9, 80.4, 82.7, and 79.1 in group T and 79.5, 74.5, 78.4, and 78.5 in group T + C. Compared with group T + C, the proportion of patients showing QoL deterioration (≥ 5 points decrease from baseline in FACT-G) was significantly lower at 2 months (31% v 48%; P = .016) and 12 months (19% v 38%; P = .009). In group T, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score ( P = .003) and the proportion of severe sensory peripheral neuropathy ( P = .001) were significantly lower at 2 months, and Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale and Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence scores were significantly higher ( P = .024, .042) at 12 months. At 36 months, there were no significant differences in any QoL items.

CONCLUSION

Detrimental effects of adjuvant chemotherapy on global QoL, morale, and activity capacity lasted for at least 12 months but were not observed at 36 months.
Gene Expression ofTakifugu rubripesGonads During AI- or MT-induced Masculinization and E2-induced Feminization
Authors: Yan Hongwei , Shen Xufang , Jiang Jieming , Zhang Lei , Yuan Zhen , Wu Yumeng , Liu Qi , Liu Ying
Published: April 2021

Elucidating the global molecular changes that occur during aromatase inhibitor (AI)– or 17α-methyltestosterone (MT)–induced masculinization and estradiol-17β (E2)–induced feminization is critical to understanding the roles that endocrine and genetic factors play in regulating the process of sex differentiation in fish. Here, fugu larvae were treated with AI (letrozole), MT, or E2 from 25 to 80 days after hatching (dah), and gonadal transcriptomic analysis at 80 dah was performed. The expression of dmrt1, gsdf, foxl2, and other key genes (star, hsd3b1, cyp11c1, cyp19a1a, etc.) involved in the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway were found be altered. The expression of dmrt1, gsdf, cyp19a1a, and foxl2 was further verified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In the control group, the expression of dmrt1 and gsdf was significantly higher in XY larvae than in XX larvae, while the expression of foxl2 and cyp19a1a was significantly higher in XX larvae than in XY larvae (P < .05). AI treatment suppressed the expression of foxl2 and cyp19a1a, and induced the expression of dmrt1 and gsdf in XX larvae. MT treatment suppressed the expression of foxl2, cyp19a1a, dmrt1, and gsdf in XX larvae. E2 treatment suppressed the expression of dmrt1 and gsdf, but did not restore the expression of foxl2 and cyp19a1a in XY larvae. The shared response following AI, MT, and E2 treatment suggested that these genes are essential for sex differentiation. This finding offers some insight into AI or MT-induced masculinization, and E2-induced femininization in fugu.
Weisser Bär, grüner Greif, sieben Künste
Authors: Bernasconi Marco , Scholz Till , Tschudin Corinne
Published: April 2021

Bei der Ausgrabung am Schlüsselberg 5 kamen unverhofft die Überreste eines ganz besonderen Kachelofens aus dem 15. Jahrhundert zum Vorschein. Auf den erhaltenen Kachelfragmenten sind menschliche Figuren zu sehen. Es handelt sich dabei um die personifizierte Darstellung des Unterrichts in den sieben freien Künsten (artes liberales). Die folgenden vier Fächer waren noch erhalten: die Rhetorik, die Logik, die Geometrie und die Arithmetik.
Tätigkeitsbericht für das Jahr 2012
Authors: Lassau Guido
Published: April 2021

Der Tätigkeitsbericht des Kantonsarchäologen bietet einen Überblick über die wichtigsten Kennzahlen und die Arbeiten in den verschiedenen Abteilungen der Archäologischen Bodenforschung im Jahr 2012.
Tod und Totenbrauchtum in Basel
Authors: Niederhäuser Andreas
Published: April 2021

Das Jahr 2015 war für die Archäologische Bodenforschung geprägt durch eine ganze Reihe von Ausgrabungen im Bereich alter Friedhofsareale. Die diesjährige Coverstory zu «Tod und Totenbrauchtum in Basel» präsentiert deshalb Einblicke in die Ausgrabung im Quartierfriedhof St. Johann und ins Friedhofswesen im Allgemeinen.
CORONAVÍRUS E OS IMPACTOS DIANTE DO SISTEMA CAPITALISTA
Authors: Xavier da Cruz Uilmer Rodrigues , Garcia Ricardo Alexandrino
Published: April 2021

Resenha DAVIS, Mike, et al: Coronavírus e a luta de classes. Terra sem Amos: Brasil, 2020.
Role of Harmaline as Adiponectin Modulator in Defeating Liver Cirrhosis Induced By Thioacetamide in Mice
Authors: Beltagy Doha M. , Abdelsalam Khloud Gamal , Mohamed Tarek M , El-Keey Mai M.
Published: April 2021

Liver cirrhosis is currently the 11th most common cause of death which includes inflammatory, oxidative damage, and immune response. Harmaline has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms which can defeat against hepatic cirrhosis pathways. The present work aimed to evaluate the ameliorating effect of harmaline against liver cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide in mice. The study was carried out on sixty male mice divided into three main groups. Control and harmaline groups (GIa and GIb), thioacetamide-group (GII) and harmaline co-treated and treated groups (GIIIa and GIIIb). By the end of the experiment, adiponectin concentrations were measured in serum and liver tissue. Gene expression of adiponectin, transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1), tissue inhibitor metalloprotease-1(TIMP-1) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) were assessed. Some oxidative stress biomarkers as malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase and nitric oxide were determined. The results indicated that harmaline administration cause significant suppression of oxidative stress and inflammatory response.Inhibition of hepatic stellate cell activation and extracellular matrix deposition were also noticed with a significant decrease in the expression of the profibrotic markers(TGF-β1 and TIMP-1) which have direct effects on adiponectin activation. These results were confirmed by the histological studies in liver tissue. In Conclusion,Harmaline has excellent protective role against liver cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide in mice via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.It can be therapeutically used as a safe liver support by a dose of 10 mg/kg after furtherin vivo studies.
Psychological Status of Freshmen with Different Levels of Their Regulatory System Activity
Authors: E. S Olenko , E. V Fomina , V. D Yupatov , A. R Kiselev , V. F Kirichuk
Published: April 2021

Objective: The index of regulatory system activity (IRSA) was previously proposed to assess the functional state of a human organism. The association of mental activity parameters of college freshmen with IRSA levels was not studied before. The objective of our study was to compare the parameters of mental functions in university freshmen with different IRSA levels. Methods: A comparative assessment of the state of mental processes in 150 college freshmen with different IRSA levels was carried out. All subjects were pooled into four groups: Group 1 (n=60; IRSA =1-3), Group 2 (n=35; IRSA =4-5), Group 3 (n=37; IRSA =6-7), and Group 4 (n=18; IRSA =8-10). Results: Statistically significant (p<0.05) differences from Group 1 in the level of emotional strain and the index of psychological stress were found in Groups 3 and 4. Such differences from Group 1 in the effectiveness of mental operations of classification and analysis were observed in Group 4. Conclusion: We established that all male freshmen with different levels of regulatory system activity in our study had high rates of psychological stress and emotional strain, which could ultimately lead to a significant decrease in the effectiveness of their mental operations and adaptation failure.
Determination of the Expression of Latent Epstein Barr Virus in Omani Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Nasser said Al-Shidhani Sheikha , Al-Sinawi Shadia , Al-Bahri Maiya , Al-Kindi Masoud , Mabruk Mohamed
Published: April 2021

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC) is a rare malignant carcinoma that develops in the epithelial lining of the nasopharyngeal mucosa It is the most common neoplasm of the Nasopharynxand it is associated with many risk factors; one of them is Epstein-Barr virus infection. An Epstein-Barr virus is a tumorigenic herpes virus that infects and persists in B-lymphocytes without causing disease. This virus is associated with significant pathological conditions, such as benign and malignant lymphoproliferation. Objectives: To determine Epstein -Barr encoded RNA 1&2 (EBER1,2) and latent membrane protein (LMP) expressionin formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples obtained from Omani patients diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.Also, to identify the pattern and the type(s) of cells infected with EBV in nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissue samples obtained from Omani patients. Moreover, to compare the sensitivity of Immuno histochemistry and in-situ Hybridization for the detection of EBV in the nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissue sample. Materials and Method:Thirteen formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissue samples archived from the period 2010 to 2017, were obtained from the Pathology Departments of Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and the Armed Force Hospital. These tissue samples were processed using two different methods Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and In situ hybridization (ISH). Results:Eleven out of thirteen NPC Omani patients were positive for EBV (84.61%) by either LMP-IHC or EBER-ISH. All cells stained positive for EBV in NPC tissue samples was of malignant type rather than normal cell type. EBV is mostly detected in patients in the age group of less than 50 years old. Also out of the 13 NPC patients, seven females (58.34%), and six males (46.15%) were positive for EBV. Conclusion:This study may provide evidence indicating an association between EBV and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. In addition, the detection of EBV in NPC obtained from Omani patients may encourage the physician to consider using anti-herpes virus drugs in the treatment of EBV positive NPC patients as an additional tool for the treatment of this kind of malignancy.
The prosecution of Dawoodi Bohra women: some reasonable doubts
Authors: Shweder Richard A.
Published: April 2021

Muslim women of the Dawoodi Bohra community have recently been prosecuted because they customarily adhere to a religiously based gender-inclusive version of the Jewish Abrahamic circumcision tradition. In Dawoodi Bohra families it is not only boys but also girls who are circumcised. And it is mothers who typically control and arrange for the circumcision of their daughters. By most accounts the circumcision procedure for girls amounts to a nick, abrasion, piercing or small cut restricted to the female foreskin or prepuce (often referred to as ‘the clitoral hood’ or in some parts of Southeast Asia as the ‘clitoral veil’). From a strictly surgical point of view the custom is less invasive than a typical male circumcision as routinely and legally performed by Jews and Muslims. The question arises: if the practice is legal for the gander why should it be banned for the goose?
Tunable graphene plasmons in nanoribbon arrays: the role of interactions
Authors: Klimenko Oleg , Schuler Simone , Muratov Andrey , Semenenko Vyacheslav , Gorbachev Evgeny , Mueller Thomas , Perebeinos Vasili
Published: April 2021

Plasmons in patterned graphene have attracted much interest because of possible applications in sensing, nanophotonics, and optoelectronics. We perform mid and far-infrared optical studies of electrically doped graphene nanoribbon arrays as a function of the filling factor and compare results with the unpatterned graphene. We demonstrate that an increase in both the filling factor of nanoribbon arrays and the free carrier concentration intensifies the plasmon-plasmon and plasmon-radiation interactions. As a result, the free-carrier dynamics manifested itself in the strong plasmon redshift and increased radiative damping compared to non-interacting models for the transverse magnetic polarization. Similarly, signatures of interactions are identified for plasmons in transverse electric polarization. The obtained experimental and theoretical results provide the basis for better understanding and controlling graphene-based structures’ spectral properties, thus facilitating applications’ development.
Generation and utilization of a HEK-293T murine GM-CSF expressing cell line
Authors: Robinson Elektra Kantzari , Covarrubias Sergio , Zhou Simon , Carpenter Susan
Published: April 2021

Macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) are innate immune cells that play a key role in defense against pathogens.In vitrocultures of bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and dendritic cells (BMDCs) are well-established and valuable methods for immunological studies. Typically, commercially available recombinant GM-CSF is utilized to generate BMDCs and is also used to culture alveolar macrophages. We have generated a new HEK-293T cell line expressing murine GM-CSF that secretes high levels of GM-CSF (~180 ng/ml) into complete media as an alternative to commercial GM-CSF. Differentiation of dendritic cells and expression of various markers were kinetically assessed using the GM-CSF HEK293T cell line, termed supGM-CSF and compared directly to purified commercial GMCSF. After 7–9 days of cell culture the supGM-CSF yielded twice as many viable cells compared to the commercial purified GM-CSF. In addition to differentiating BMDCs, the supGM-CSF can be utilized to culture functionally active alveolar macrophages. Collectively, our results show that supernatant from our GM-CSF HEK293T cell line supports the differentiation of mouse BMDCs or alveolar macrophage culturing, providing an economical alternative to purified GM-CSF.
Fibulin-2 expression associates with vascular invasion and patient survival in breast cancer
Authors: Klingen Tor A. , Chen Ying , Aas Hans , Wik Elisabeth , Akslen Lars A.
Published: April 2021

Stromal elastosis is related to good prognosis in breast cancer and fibulin-2 helps to stabilize elastic fibers in basement membranes. Here, we examined the level of perivascular fibulin-2 expression in relation to elastosis content, vascular invasion, molecular subtypes, tumour detection mode, and patient prognosis in breast cancer. We performed a population based retrospective study of invasive breast cancers from the Norwegian Breast Screening Program (Vestfold County, 2004–2009) including 200 screen-detected and 82 interval cancers. Perivascular fibulin-2 staining was semi-quantitatively graded based on immunohistochemistry (1–3) and dichotomized as high expression (grade 2–3) and low expression (grade 1). Elastosis content was graded on a 4-tiered scale and dichotomized as high (score 3) and low (score 0–2) expression, whereas lymphatic (LVI) and blood vessel invasion (BVI) were recorded as absent or present by immunohistochemistry. High perivascular fibulin-2 expression was strongly related to stromal elastosis (p<0.001), and inversely associated with BVI and LVI (p<0.001 for both). High fibulin-2 was associated with luminal breast cancer subgroups (p<0.001) and inversely with interval cancers compared with screen-detected tumours (p<0.001). By univariate analysis, low perivascular fibulin-2 was associated with reduced recurrence-free survival (p = 0.002) and disease specific survival (p = 0.019). Low perivascular fibulin-2 expression was strongly related to vascular invasion, low stromal elastosis, non-luminal breast cancer subtypes, interval presentation, and adverse prognosis.
Determinants of dietary diversity practice among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Wachemo University Nigist Eleni Mohammed memorial referral hospital, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Delil Romedan , Zinab Beakal , Mosa Hassen , Ahmed Ritbano , Hassen Habtamu
Published: April 2021

Background

Dietary diversity has continued to receive a global attention among pregnant women as they have been considered susceptible to malnutrition because of their increased nutrient demands. Thus, a variety of foodstuffs in their diet are necessary for ensuring the appropriateness of their nutrient consumptions. This study, therefore assessed the dietary diversity practice and its determinants among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Wachemo University Nigist Eleni Mohammed memorial referral hospital, Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 303 participants from May 1 to June 15, 2019 using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS (version24.0). Both bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to decide the association of each explanatory variable with the outcome variable. Odds ratio with their 95% confidence intervals was calculated to identify the presence and strength of association, and statistical significance was declared atp< 0.05.

Results

The overall prevalence of adequate dietary diversity practices was observed to be 42.6%. The determinants of dietary diversity practice included earning of a monthly income ≥2000 Ethiopian birr (AOR = 1.62; 95%CI:1.19–2.85), maternal educational level (AOR = 2.50; 95% CI: 1.05–6.12), educational status of partner (AOR = 2.45; 95% CI:1.20, 9.57), having a partner who was a government employee (AOR = 4; 95% CI:2.18–7.21), and the receiving of nutritional information (AOR = 1.35; 95% CI: 3.39–6.94).

Conclusions

The study indicated that the overall consumption of adequate dietary diversity practice was found to be low. Therefore, increasing household income, enhancing nutritional related information, advancing the academic level of both wife and her partner is essential to improve women’s dietary diversity practice.
Impact of a Collaborative Clinical Trials Methodology Course on Trainees’ Funding and Clinical Trials Activity
Authors: Yang Shirley , Meurer William
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Clinical trials are challenging, and many junior investigators lack the skills to move through the phases in a coherent way. To address this issue in the clinical neurosciences, the NINDS Clinical Trials Methodology Course (CTMC) was created through cross university collaborations to provide junior investigators with relevant education and training to promote well-designed clinical trials. This study aims to explore the impact of CTMC by determining the trajectory of NIH funding and clinical trials activity in trainees after completion of the course.

Methods

The online databases NIH RePORTER and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched respectively to determine NIH funding and clinical trials activity of each CTMC trainee between 2014-2017. Data was collected on the Project Start Date of the first NIH grant and the Study Start Date of the first non-withdrawn clinical trial each trainee had after taking CTMC. Grants or trials prior to CTMC were noted. The date of a trainee’s CTMC was designated as January 1
st of the year following course completion. Time until grant or clinical trial was calculated as the difference between the Project/Study Start Date and the trainee’s CTMC date.

Results and Discussion

There were 131 CTMC trainees between 2014-2017. As of early 2019, 23.7% of these trainees received a NIH grant and 43.5% became involved in a clinical trial after the course. Excluding those with prior experience, 11.5% of all trainees received their first-ever NIH grant and 27.5% became involved in their first-ever clinical trial following completion of CTMC. For all trainees who received a NIH grant or became involved in a clinical trial after the course, the median times to these achievements were 1.1 years (IQR 0.5-1.9 years) and 1.2 years (IQR 0.6-2.2 years), respectively. These results suggest that completing CTMC may help promote successful funding and clinical trials by junior investigators.