bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-translational modifications of PRC2: signals directing its activity
Authors: Yang Yiqi , Li Gang
Published: October 2020

Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is a chromatin-modifying enzyme that catalyses the methylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me1/2/3). This complex maintains gene transcriptional repression and plays an essential role in the maintenance of cellular identity as well as normal organismal development. The activity of PRC2, including its genomic targeting and catalytic activity, is controlled by various signals. Recent studies have revealed that these signals involve cis chromatin features, PRC2 facultative subunits and post-translational modifications (PTMs) of PRC2 subunits. Overall, these findings have provided insight into the biochemical signals directing PRC2 function, although many mysteries remain.
Tracking a TGF-β activator in vivo: sensitive PET imaging of αvβ8-integrin with the Ga-68-labeled cyclic RGD octapeptide trimer Ga-68-Triveoctin
Authors: Quigley Neil Gerard , Steiger Katja , Richter Frauke , Weichert Wilko , Hoberück Sebastian , Kotzerke Jörg , Notni Johannes
Published: October 2020

Purpose

As a major activator of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), the RGD receptor αvβ8-integrin is involved in pathogenic processes related to TGF-β dysregulation, such as tumor growth, invasion, and radiochemoresistance, metastasis and tumor cell stemness, as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The novel positron emission tomography (PET) radiopharmaceutical Ga-68-Triveoctin for in vivo mapping of αvβ8-integrin expression might enhance the prognosis of certain tumor entities, as well as support and augment TGF-β-targeted therapeutic approaches.

Methods

Monomeric and trimeric conjugates of cyclo(GLRGDLp(NMe)K(pent-4-ynoic amide)) were synthesized by click chemistry (CuAAC), labeled with Ga-68, and evaluated in MeWo (human melanoma) xenografted SCID mice by means of PET and ex-vivo biodistribution. αvβ8-integrin expression in murine tissues was determined by β8-IHC. A human subject received a single injection of 173 MBq of Ga-68-Triveoctin and underwent 3 subsequent PET/CT scans at 25, 45, and 90 min p.i..

Results

The trimer Ga-68-Triveoctin exhibits a 6.7-fold higher αvβ8-integrin affinity than the monomer (IC50of 5.7 vs. 38 nM, respectively). Accordingly, biodistribution showed a higher tumor uptake (1.9 vs. 1.0%IA/g, respectively) but a similar baseline upon blockade (0.25%IA/g for both). IHC showed an intermediate β8-expression in the tumor while most organs and tissues were found β8-negative. Low non-target tissue uptakes (< 0.4%IA/g) confirmed a low degree of unspecific binding. Due to its hydrophilicity (logD = − 3.1), Ga-68-Triveoctin is excreted renally and shows favorable tumor/tissue ratios in mice (t/blood: 6.7; t/liver: 6.8; t/muscle: 29). A high kidney uptake in mice (kidney-to-blood and -to-muscle ratios of 126 and 505, respectively) is not reflected by human PET (corresponding values are 15 and 30, respectively), which furthermore showed notable uptakes in coeliac and choroid plexus (SUVmean 6.1 and 9.7, respectively, 90 min p.i.).

Conclusion

Ga-68-Triveoctin enables sensitive in-vivo imaging αvβ8-integrin expression in murine tumor xenografts. PET in a human subject confirmed a favorable biodistribution, underscoring the potential of Ga-68-Triveoctin for mapping of αvβ8-integrin expression in a clinical setting.
Isolation and identification of a novel bacterium, Pseudomonas sp. ZyL-01, involved in the biodegradation of CL-20
Authors: Liu Zhiyong , Dang Kai , Li Cunzhi , Gao Junhong , Wang Hong , Gao Yongchao , Zhao Bin , Fan Peng , Qian Airong
Published: October 2020

Hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) is a compound with a polycyclic cage and an N-nitro group that has been shown to play an unfavorable role in environmental fate, biosafety, and physical health. The aim of this study was to isolate the microbial community and to identify a single microbial strain that can degrade CL-20 with desirable efficiency. Metagenomic sequencing methods were performed to investigate the dynamic changes in the composition of the community diversity. The most varied genus among the microbial community wasPseudomonas, which increased from 1.46% to 44.63% during the period of incubation (MC0–MC4). Furthermore, the new strain was isolated and identified from the activated sludge by bacterial morphological and 16s rRNA sequencing analyses. The CL-20 concentrations decreased by 75.21 μg/mL and 74.02 μg/mL in 48 h by MC4 andPseudomonassp. ZyL-01, respectively. Moreover, ZyL-01 could decompose 98% CL-20 of the real effluent in 14 day’s incubation with the glucose as carbon source. Finally, a draft genome sequence was obtained to predict possible degrading enzymes involved in the biodegradation of CL-20. Specifically, 330 genes that are involved in energy production and conversion were annotated by Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis, and some of these candidates may encode enzymes that are responsible for CL-20 degradation. In summary, our studies indicate that microbes might be a valuable biological resource for the treatment of environmental contamination caused by CL-20 and thatPseudomonassp. ZyL-01 might be a promising candidate for eradicating CL-20 to achieve a more biosafe environment and improve public health.
Identifying cancer-associated fibroblasts as emerging targets for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Jie , Gu Chaoyu , Song Qianqian , Zhu Mengqi , Xu Yuqing , Xiao Mingbing , Zheng Wenjie
Published: October 2020

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex multicellular functional compartment that includes fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, endothelial cells, immune cells, and extracellular matrix (ECM) elements. The microenvironment provides an optimum condition for the initiation, growth, and dissemination of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As one of the critical and abundant components in tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been implicated in the progression of HCC. Through secreting various growth factors and cytokines, CAFs contribute to the ECM remodeling, stem features, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, and vasculogenic mimicry (VM), which reinforce the initiation and development of HCC. In order to restrain the CAFs-initiated HCC progression, current strategies include targeting specific markers, engineering CAFs with tumor-suppressive phenotype, depleting CAFs’ precursors, and repressing the secretions or downstream signaling. In this review, we update the emerging understanding of CAFs in HCC, with particular emphasis on cellular origin, phenotypes, biological functions and targeted strategies. It provides insights into the targeting CAFs for HCC treatment.
Chebyshev wavelets operational matrices for solving nonlinear variable-order fractional integral equations
Authors: Yang Y. , Heydari M. H. , Avazzadeh Z. , Atangana A.
Published: October 2020

In this study, a wavelet method is developed to solve a system of nonlinear variable-order (V-O) fractional integral equations using the Chebyshev wavelets (CWs) and the Galerkin method. For this purpose, we derive a V-O fractional integration operational matrix (OM) for CWs and use it in our method. In the established scheme, we approximate the unknown functions by CWs with unknown coefficients and reduce the problem to an algebraic system. In this way, we simplify the computation of nonlinear terms by obtaining some new results for CWs. Finally, we demonstrate the applicability of the presented algorithm by solving a few numerical examples.
Existence and approximate controllability of Hilfer fractional evolution equations with almost sectorial operators
Authors: Bedi Pallavi , Kumar Anoop , Abdeljawad Thabet , Khan Zareen A. , Khan Aziz
Published: October 2020

In this article, we are concerned with the existence of mild solutions and approximate controllability of Hilfer fractional evolution equations with almost sectorial operators and nonlocal conditions. The existence results are obtained by first defining Green’s function and approximate controllability by specifying a suitable control function. These results are established with the help of Schauder’s fixed point theorem and theory of almost sectorial operators in a Banach space. An example is also presented for the demonstration of obtained results.
On a Kirchhoff diffusion equation with integral condition
Authors: Nam Danh Hua Quoc , Baleanu Dumitru , Luc Nguyen Hoang , Can Nguyen Huu
Published: October 2020

This paper is devoted to Kirchhoff-type parabolic problem with nonlocal integral condition. Our problem has many applications in modeling physical and biological phenomena. The first part of our paper concerns the local existence of the mild solution in Hilbert scales. Our results can be studied into two cases: homogeneous case and inhomogeneous case. In order to overcome difficulties, we applied Banach fixed point theorem and some new techniques on Sobolev spaces. The second part of the paper is to derive the ill-posedness of the mild solution in the sense of Hadamard.
Efficiencies of unconventional bulking agents in composting food waste in Korea
Authors: Lee Jae-Han , Luyima Deogratius , Lee Chang-Hoon , Park Seong-Jin , Oh Taek-Keun
Published: October 2020

Sawdust is the main bulking agent used to compost food waste in Korea but it is not an economically desirable choice because its availability entirely depends on imports. Since food waste composting provides agricultural, environmental and economic benefits, it is vital that we search for suitable replacements to sawdust from the locally available materials. In this study, we assessed the composting characteristics of food waste amended with various bulking agents including sawdust, ginkgo leaves, insect feces, and mushroom waste. Each of the bulking agents was mixed with the food waste in ratios of 3:7, respectively. Even though the initial temperatures were highest in the mixture of the food waste and insect feces whose temperature stood at 65 °C against 39, 58 and 51 °C in the sawdust, ginkgo leaves and mushroom waste mixtures, respectively on the third day of the experiment (DAT 3), it was terminated on the 21st day (DAT 21) because of excessively high water content (70.92%). The water content of the composted food waste supplemented with sawdust, mushroom waste, and ginkgo leaves stood at 51.28, 39.81, and 44.92%, respectively at the end of the experiment and therefore, the fully mature composts satisfied the water content requirement of less than 55% established by the Rural Development Agency of the ministry of Agriculture of Korea. The results of the CoMMe-101, Solvita and seed germination index indicated that the composted food waste amended with the mushroom waste and ginkgo leaves matured relatively quicker than that of the sawdust amendment. Based on the above observations, it is clear that the mushroom waste and ginkgo leaves are actually more effective bulking agents than the sawdust and as such, are recommended as suitable replacements for sawdust in food waste composting.
A machine learning analysis of serious misconduct among Australian police
Authors: Cubitt Timothy I. C. , Wooden Ken R. , Roberts Karl A.
Published: October 2020

Fairness in policing, driven by the effective and transparent investigation and remediation of police misconduct, is vital to maintaining the legitimacy of policing agencies, and the capacity for police to function within society. Research into police misconduct in Australia has traditionally been performed on an ad-hoc basis, with limited access to law enforcement data. This research seeks to identify the antecedents of serious police misconduct, resulting in the dismissal or criminal charge of officers, among a large police misconduct dataset. Demographic and misconduct data were sourced for a sample of 600 officers who have committed instances of serious misconduct, and a matched sample of 600 comparison officers across a 13-year period. A machine learning analysis, random forest, was utilised to produce a robust predictive model, with Partial Dependence Plots employed to demonstrate within variable interaction with serious misconduct. Prior instances of serious misconduct were particularly predictive of further serious misconduct, while misconduct was most prominent around mid-career. Secondary employment, and performance issues were important predictors, while demographic variables typically outperformed complaint variables. This research suggests that serious misconduct is similarly prevalent among experienced officers, as it is junior officers, while secondary employment is an important indicator of misconduct risk. Findings provide guidance for misconduct prevention policy among policing agencies.
Associations between stuttering, comorbid conditions and executive function in children: a population-based study
Authors: Choo Ai Leen , Smith Sara Ashley , Li Hongli
Published: October 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between executive function (EF), stuttering, and comorbidity by examining children who stutter (CWS) and children who do not stutter (CWNS) with and without comorbid conditions. Data from the National Health Interview Survey were used to examine behavioral manifestations of EF, such as inattention and self-regulation, in CWS and CWNS.

Methods

The sample included 2258 CWS (girls = 638, boys = 1620), and 117,725 CWNS (girls = 57,512; boys = 60,213). EF, and the presence of stuttering and comorbid conditions were based on parent report. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the distribution of stuttering and comorbidity across group and sex. Regression analyses were to determine the effects of stuttering and comorbidity on EF, and the relationship between EF and socioemotional competence.

Results

Results point to weaker EF in CWS compared to CWNS. Also, having comorbid conditions was also associated with weaker EF. CWS with comorbidity showed the weakest EF compared to CWNS with and without comorbidity, and CWS without comorbidity. Children with stronger EF showed higher socioemotional competence. A majority (60.32%) of CWS had at least one other comorbid condition in addition to stuttering. Boys who stutter were more likely to have comorbid conditions compared to girls who stutter.

Conclusion

Present findings suggest that comorbidity is a common feature in CWS. Stuttering and comorbid conditions negatively impact EF.
RNA dependent suppression of C9orf72 ALS/FTD associated neurodegeneration by Matrin-3
Authors: Ramesh Nandini , Daley Elizabeth L. , Gleixner Amanda M. , Mann Jacob R. , Kour Sukhleen , Mawrie Darilang , Anderson Eric N. , Kofler Julia , Donnelly Christopher J. , Kiskinis Evangelos , Pandey Udai Bhan
Published: October 2020

The most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a GGGGCC (G4C2) hexanucleotide repeat expansions in first intron of the C9orf72 gene. The accumulation of repetitive RNA sequences can mediate toxicity potentially through the formation of intranuclear RNA foci that sequester key RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), and non-ATG mediated translation into toxic dipeptide protein repeats. However, the contribution of RBP sequestration to the mechanisms underlying RNA-mediated toxicity remain unknown. Here we show that the ALS-associated RNA-binding protein, Matrin-3 (MATR3), colocalizes with G4C2 RNA foci in patient tissues as well as iPSC-derived motor neurons harboring the C9orf72 mutation. Hyperexpansion of C9 repeats perturbed subcellular distribution and levels of endogenous MATR3 in C9-ALS patient-derived motor neurons. Interestingly, we observed that ectopic expression of human MATR3 strongly mitigates G4C2-mediated neurodegeneration in vivo. MATR3-mediated suppression of C9 toxicity was dependent on the RNA-binding domain of MATR3. Importantly, we found that expression of MATR3 reduced the levels of RAN-translation products in mammalian cells in an RNA-dependent manner. Finally, we have shown that knocking down endogenous MATR3 in C9-ALS patient-derived iPSC neurons decreased the presence of G4C2 RNA foci in the nucleus. Overall, these studies suggest that MATR3 genetically modifies the neuropathological and the pathobiology of C9orf72 ALS through modulating the RNA foci and RAN translation.
Dog leucocyte antigen (DLA) class II haplotypes and risk of canine diabetes mellitus in specific dog breeds
Authors: Denyer A. L. , Massey J. P. , Davison L. J. , Ollier W. E. R. , Catchpole B. , Kennedy L. J.
Published: October 2020

Background

Canine diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common endocrine disease in domestic dogs. A number of pathological mechanisms are thought to contribute to the aetiopathogenesis of relative or absolute insulin deficiency, including immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic beta cells. DM risk varies considerably between different dog breeds, suggesting that genetic factors are involved and contribute susceptibility or protection. Associations of particular dog leucocyte antigen (DLA) class II haplotypes with DM have been identified, but investigations to date have only considered all breeds pooled together. The aim of this study was to analyse an expanded data set so as to identify breed-specific diabetes-associated DLA haplotypes.

Methods

The 12 most highly represented breeds in the UK Canine Diabetes Register were selected for study. DLA-typing data from 646 diabetic dogs and 912 breed-matched non-diabetic controls were analysed to enable breed-specific analysis of the DLA. Dogs were genotyped for allelic variation at DLA-DRB1, -DQA1, -DQB1 loci using DNA sequence-based typing. Genotypes from all three loci were combined to reveal three-locus DLA class II haplotypes, which were evaluated for statistical associations with DM. This was performed for each breed individually and for all breeds pooled together.

Results

Five dog breeds were identified as having one or more DLA haplotype associated with DM susceptibility or protection. Four DM-associated haplotypes were identified in the Cocker Spaniel breed, of which one haplotype was shared with Border Terriers. In the three breeds known to be at highest risk of DM included in the study (Samoyed, Tibetan Terrier and Cairn Terrier), no DLA haplotypes were found to be associated with DM.

Conclusions

Novel DLA associations with DM in specific dog breeds provide further evidence that immune response genes contribute susceptibility to this disease in some cases. It is also apparent that DLA may not be contributing obvious or strong risk for DM in some breeds, including the seven breeds analysed for which no associations were identified.
Enzymatic activities and analysis of a mycelium-based composite formation using peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) residues on Lentinula edodes
Authors: de Lima Gabriel Goetten , Schoenherr Zaira Chiodini Pedri , Magalhães Washington Luiz Esteves , Tavares Lorena Benathar Ballod , Helm Cristiane Vieira
Published: October 2020

By seeding fungus on top of industry residues, a mycelium can grow and form a compact network structure; however, it may not develop due to lack of optimal nutrients from the substrate. Consequently, peach-palm residues can be a potential alternative; so, to test this hypothesis, this work evaluates the effect of peach-palm residues as substrate for the growth of mycelium based on Lentinula edodes. They were also supplemented with cassava bran and various sources of nitrogen-ammonium sulphate, potassium nitrate, and soy flour—to analyse its effects on its physico-chemical, enzymatic activities, and thermal and mechanical properties of the final composite at 12 and 20 days of cultivation. This mycelium was able to grow at optimum source treatment conditions, which depends on the ratio of Carbon to Nitrogen, within only 12 days of inoculation. Furthermore, the enzyme activities directly correlate with the mycelium growth with optimum conditions of pH, water activity, and moisture for L. edodes to grow having lower enzyme activities for a well-developed composite; whereas higher activities were seen for a weakly developed material, and this material demonstrates mechanical and thermal properties similar to common mycelium-based composites. Therefore, this work demonstrates that peach-palm residues can be a potential alternative for mycelium-based composite.
Guidance for conducting feasibility and pilot studies for implementation trials
Authors: Pearson Nicole , Naylor Patti-Jean , Ashe Maureen C. , Fernandez Maria , Yoong Sze Lin , Wolfenden Luke
Published: October 2020

Background

Implementation trials aim to test the effects of implementation strategies on the adoption, integration or uptake of an evidence-based intervention within organisations or settings. Feasibility and pilot studies can assist with building and testing effective implementation strategies by helping to address uncertainties around design and methods, assessing potential implementation strategy effects and identifying potential causal mechanisms. This paper aims to provide broad guidance for the conduct of feasibility and pilot studies for implementation trials.

Methods

We convened a group with a mutual interest in the use of feasibility and pilot trials in implementation science including implementation and behavioural science experts and public health researchers. We conducted a literature review to identify existing recommendations for feasibility and pilot studies, as well as publications describing formative processes for implementation trials. In the absence of previous explicit guidance for the conduct of feasibility or pilot implementation trials specifically, we used the effectiveness-implementation hybrid trial design typology proposed by Curran and colleagues as a framework for conceptualising the application of feasibility and pilot testing of implementation interventions. We discuss and offer guidance regarding the aims, methods, design, measures, progression criteria and reporting for implementation feasibility and pilot studies.

Conclusions

This paper provides a resource for those undertaking preliminary work to enrich and inform larger scale implementation trials.
Introducing virtual reality therapy for inpatients with dementia admitted to an acute care hospital: learnings from a pilot to pave the way to a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Appel Lora , Kisonas Erika , Appel Eva , Klein Jennifer , Bartlett Deanna , Rosenberg Jarred , Smith Christopher
Published: October 2020

Background

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are difficult to manage, particularly in acute care settings. As virtual reality (VR) technology becomes increasingly accessible and affordable, there is growing interest among clinicians to evaluate VR therapy in hospitalized patients, as an alternative to administering antipsychotics/sedatives or using physical restraints associated with negative side effects.

Objectives

Validate and refine the proposed research protocol for a randomized controlled trial (RCT) that evaluates the impact of VR therapy on managing BPSD in acute care hospitals. Special attention was given to ascertain the processes of introducing non-pharmacological interventions in acute care hospitals.

Methods

Ten patients 65 years or older (mean = 87) previously diagnosed with dementia, admitted to an acute care hospital, were recruited over 3-month period into a prospective longitudinal pilot study. The intervention consisted of viewing 20-min of immersive 360° VR using a head-mounted display. Baseline and outcomes data were collected from the hospital electronic medical records, pre/post mood-state questionnaires, Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) score, and standardized qualitative observations. Comprehensive process data and workflow were documented, including timestamps for each study task and detailed notes on personnel requirements and challenges encountered.

Results

Of 516 patients admitted during the study, 67 met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. In total, 234 calls were initiated to substitute decision makers (SDM) of the 67 patients for the consenting process. Nearly half (45.6%) of SDMs declined participation, and 40% could not be reached in time before patients being discharged, resulting in 57 eligible patients not being enrolled. Ten consented participants were enrolled and completed the study. The initial VR session averaged 53.6 min, largely due to the administration of NPI (mean = 19.5 min). Only four participants were able to respond reliably to questions. Seven participants opted for additional VR therapy sessions; of those providing feedback regarding the VR content, they wanted more varied scenery (animals, fields of flowers, holiday themes). Few sessions (4/18) encountered technical difficulties.

Conclusion

The pilot was instrumental in identifying issues and providing recommendations for the RCT. Screening, inclusion criteria, consenting, data collection, and interaction with SDMs and hospital staff were all processes requiring changes and optimizations. Overall, patients with dementia appear to tolerate immersive VR, and with suggested protocol alterations, it is feasible to evaluate this non-pharmacological intervention in acute care hospitals.
Development and validation of a follow-up methodology for a randomised controlled trial, utilising routine clinical data as an alternative to traditional designs: a pilot study to assess the feasibility of use for the BladderPath trial
Authors:   the BladderPath trial management group, Mintz Harriet P. , Dosanjh Amandeep , Parsons Helen M. , Hughes Ana , Jakeman Alicia , Pope Ann M. , Bryan Richard T. , James Nicholas D. , Patel Prashant
Published: October 2020

Background

Bladder cancer outcomes have not changed significantly in 30 years; the BladderPath trial (Image Directed Redesign of Bladder Cancer Treatment Pathway, ISRCTN35296862) proposes to evaluate a modified pathway for diagnosis and treatment ensuring appropriate pathways are undertaken earlier to improve outcomes. We are piloting a novel data collection technique based on routine National Health Service (NHS) data, with no traditional patient-Health Care Professional contact after recruitment, where trial data are traditionally collected on case report forms. Data will be collected from routine administrative sources and validated via data queries to sites. We report here the feasibility and pre-trial methodological development and validation of the schema proposed for BladderPath.

Methods

Locally treated patient cohorts were utilised for routine data validation (hospital interactions data (HID) and administrative radiotherapy department data (RTD)). Single site events of interest were algorithmically extracted from the 2008–2018 HID and validated against reference datasets to determine detection sensitivity. Survival analysis was performed using RTD and HID data. Hazard ratios and survival statistics were calculated estimating treatment effects and further validating and assessing the scope of routine data.

Results

Overall, 829/1042 (sensitivity 0.80) events of interest were identified in the HID, with varying levels of sensitivity; identifying, 202/206 (sensitivity 0.98; PPV 0.96) surgical events but only 391/568 (sensitivity 0.69; PPV 0.95) radiotherapy regimens. An overall temporal quality improvement trend was present: detecting 41/117 events (35%) in 2011 to 104/109 (95%) in 2017 (all event types). Using the RTD, 5-year survival rates were 43% (95% CI 25–59%) in the chemoradiotherapy group and 30% (95% CI 23–36%) in the radiotherapy group; using the HID, the 5-year radical cystectomy survival rate was 57% (95% CI 50–63%).

Conclusions

Routine data are a feasible method for trial data collection. As long as events of interest are pre-validated, very high sensitivities for trial conduct can be achieved and further improved with targeted data queries. Outcomes can also be produced comparable to clinical trial and national dataset results. Given the real-time, obligatory nature of the HID, which forms the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data, alongside other datasets, we believe routine data extraction and validation is a robust way of rapidly collecting datasets for trials.
Why does uptake of family planning services remain sub-optimal among Nigerian women? A systematic review of challenges and implications for policy
Authors: Akamike Ifeyinwa Chizoba , Okedo-Alex Ijeoma Nkem , Eze Irene Ifeyinwa , Ezeanosike Obumneme Benaiah , Uneke Chigozie Jesse
Published: October 2020

Background

Over the years, family planning uptake in Nigeria has remained low and this is as a result of the various challenges and barriers faced by women. The aim of this study was to systematically review studies on family planning services undertaken in Nigeria in order to understand the challenges to uptake of the services and the policy implications.

Methods

A PubMed search was performed in June 2020 and studies that investigated challenges of family planning uptake in Nigeria published in English between 2006 and 2020 were sought. A combination of the search terms family planning, contraceptives, challenges, barriers, Nigeria was used. Review articles, case reports, and case studies were excluded. Studies that did not report barriers or challenges to family planning or contraceptives were excluded.

Result

Twenty seven studies carried out in Nigeria which provided sufficient information were identified and used for this review. The Uptake of family planning recorded in the reviewed studies ranges from 10.3 to 66.8%. Challenges that are client related include education, desire for more children, uncertainty about its need, partner disapproval, previous side effects, religious beliefs, culture disapproval, age, marital status, and wealth index, residence, ignorance, embarrassment, domestic violence and sexual factor. Health service related factors identified include cost, difficulty accessing services, and procurement difficulties. Recommendations for family planning propram and policy include targeting of health service delivery for improvement, focus on gender issues and male involvement, involvement of religious leaders, targeting of younger women for better education and counseling, and continuous awareness creation and counseling among others.

Conclusion

The review has shown that uptake of family planning remains low in Nigeria and challenges abound. We recommend that strategies that are multi-sectoral should be applied to address the multi-pronged challenges facing uptake of family planning services.
Mandibular shape prediction using cephalometric analysis: applications in craniofacial analysis, forensic anthropology and archaeological reconstruction
Authors: Omran Ahmed , Wertheim David , Smith Kathryn , Liu Ching Yiu Jessica , Naini Farhad B.
Published: October 2020

Background

The human mandible is variable in shape, size and position and any deviation from normal can affect the facial appearance and dental occlusion.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to determine whether the Sassouni cephalometric analysis could help predict two-dimensional mandibular shape in humans using cephalometric planes and landmarks.

Materials and methods

A retrospective computerised analysis of 100 lateral cephalometric radiographs taken at Kingston Hospital Orthodontic Department was carried out.

Results

Results showed that the Euclidean straight-line mean difference between the estimated position of gonion and traced position of gonion was 7.89 mm and the Euclidean straight-line mean difference between the estimated position of pogonion and the traced position of pogonion was 11.15 mm. The length of the anterior cranial base as measured by sella-nasion was positively correlated with the length of the mandibular body gonion-menton, r = 0.381 and regression analysis showed the length of the anterior cranial base sella-nasion could be predictive of the length of the mandibular body gonion-menton by the equation 22.65 + 0.5426x, where x = length of the anterior cranial base (SN). There was a significant association with convex shaped palates and oblique shaped mandibles, p = 0.0004.

Conclusions

The method described in this study can be used to help estimate the position of cephalometric points gonion and pogonion and thereby sagittal mandibular length. This method is more accurate in skeletal class I cases and therefore has potential applications in craniofacial anthropology and the ‘missing mandible’ problem in forensic and archaeological reconstruction.
Psychometric properties of empathy questionnaire for Spanish adolescents
Authors: Salavera Carlos , Usán Pablo
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to adapt and test the empathy questionnaire in Spanish adolescents (N = 701, age = 13.47 years). The study involved two different strands: (1) the questionnaire was translated into Spanish, and its internal consistency, factorial structure and convergent validity were assessed; (2) the questionnaire was subject to confirmatory factor analysis.

The results of the confirmatory factor analysis show that the questionnaire’s factors present an aggregate variance of 58.588%, which suggests that the questionnaire is a valid tool to represent affective empathy, cognitive empathy and empathic concern. On the other hand, the confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the sustainability of the model, which comprises three identified factors and twelve items. The empathy questionnaire is easy to understand and can be completed in a short time, so it is considered a useful tool to assess empathy in Spanish adolescents. The results are discussed in the context of theoretical accounts of empathy.
Crestal bone loss around tissue level implants with platform matching abutments versus bone level implants with conical/platform switched abutments in the posterior mandible: a comparative study
Authors: Shalash Mahmoud , Abdalsamad Ahmad
Published: October 2020

Background

Many factors play a role in the long-term survival of osseointegrated dental implants. Among these, the preservation of crestal bone remains to be the key principal. The aim of this comparative study was to assess crestal bone loss (CBL) between tissue-level implants restored with platform matching abutments and bone-level implants restored with conical/platform switched hybrid abutments in the posterior molar region.

Results

All implants in both groups showed a 100% survival and success rate at 1 year. Mean CBL for group I was 0.8 mm (SD 0.85), and mean CBL for group II was 0.18 mm (SD 0.48). There was a statistically significant difference between the CBL in both groups (p < 0.001). The highest mean value was found in the tissue level group, while the lowest mean value was found in the bone level group.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the sample size of this study, both implant designs showed minimal CBL at 1-year post-loading. Bone level implants with a platform switched conical hybrid connection showed less CBL compared to tissue level implants.
The shape of incident shock wave in steady axisymmetric conical Mach reflection
Authors: Ren Yu-xin , Tan Lianhua , Wu Zi-niu
Published: October 2020

For internal flow with supersonic inflow boundary conditions, a complicated oblique shock reflection may occur. Different from the planar shock reflection problem, where the shape of the incident shock can be a straight line, the shape of the incident shock wave in the inward-facing axisymmetric shock reflection in steady flow is an unknown curve. In this paper, a simple theoretical approach is proposed to determine the shape of this incident shock wave. The present theory is based on the steady Euler equations. When the assumption that the streamlines are straight lines at locations just behind the incident shock is adopted, an ordinary differential equation can be derived, and the shape of the incident shock wave is given by the solution of this ordinary differential equation. The predicted curves of the incident shock wave at several inlet conditions agree very well with the results of the numerical simulations.
The use of tissue adhesive as an adjunct to wound closure in knee arthroplasty does not reduce wound ooze
Authors: Khalefa Mohamed A. , Smith Lindsay K. , Ahmad Riaz
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Persistent wound ooze has been associated with prolonged length of hospital stay and increased risk of infection. Recently, the use of tissue adhesive after hip and knee arthroplasty has been described. We believe that knee arthroplasty wounds exhibit different behavior compared to hip arthroplasty due to the increased wound-margin tension associated with knee flexion.

Patients and methods

Forty-three patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by a single surgeon were studied. All wounds were closed using staples with or without tissue adhesive. Post-operatively, the wounds were reviewed daily for ooze. Dressings were changed only if soaked > 50% or if there was persistent wound discharge of more than 2 × 2 cm at 72 h.

Results

There were 21 patients in the tissue adhesive (group 1), 22 in the non-tissue adhesive (group 2) with the average age for group 1 of 72.2 years and for group 2 of 69.3 years. The median length of stay for both groups was 4 days (range of 3–7 days for group 1 and 2–6 days for group 2) (P = 0.960). The tissue adhesive group showed a statistically significant reduction in wound ooze on day 1 (P = 0.019); however, the difference was not significant on the following days. The median for the number of dressing changes for group 1 was zero changes and for group 2, one change. This was not statistically significant (P = 0.112). No complications were observed in both groups and there were no reactions to the tissue adhesive.

Conclusion

The data from this case series suggest that the use of tissue adhesive may reduce wound ooze on day 1 only. The latter is most likely due to significant tensile forces to which the knee arthroplasty wound is subjected in the immediate post-operative rehabilitation. Further, the cost of tissue adhesive is not offset by reduced dressing changes or length of hospital stay.
Primordial follicle survival of goat ovarian tissue after vitrification and transplantation on chorioallanthoic membrane
Authors: Widad Shofwal , Nurdiati Detty Siti , Ayuandari Sarrah , Hamurajib Kuky Cahya , Rahmana Muhammad Dimas Reza , Alma Nurulita Ainun , Dewanto Agung
Published: October 2020

Background

Ovarian tissue vitrification is an alternative fertility preservation procedure for young female patients prior to gonadotoxic treatment. Primordial follicle loss might be a potential issue for vitrification and transplantation procedures. This study aimed to evaluate primordial follicle density and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation in each stage of the preservation procedure of goat ovarian tissue. Follicle density and DNA fragmentation were examined microscopically after staining with hematoxylin eosin and TUNEL assay, respectively. Both parameters were compared between fresh, fresh-transplanted, vitrification, and vitrification-transplanted groups.

Results

A significant decrease was observed in the primordial follicle proportion after vitrification and transplantation compared to the primordial follicle proportion in the fresh group (88.09% vs 52.42%, p < 0.05, 95% CI 11.54, 66.94). There was no significant difference in DNA fragmentations of primordial follicles between each group (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The vitrification and transplantation process of goat ovarian strips could cause the primordial follicles loss and DNA damage of the follicles. However, primordial follicles loss and DNA damage were not significantly different in each procedure.
A digital mental health intervention to reduce depressive symptoms among overseas Filipino workers: protocol for a pilot hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liem Andrian , Garabiles Melissa R. , Pakingan Karmia A. , Chen Wen , Lam Agnes Iok Fong , Burchert Sebastian , Hall Brian J.
Published: October 2020

Background

The current pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) protocol will comprehensively describe the implementation of a culturally adapted Filipino version of the World Health Organization Step-by-Step (SbS-F) program, unguided online psychological intervention for people with depression based on behavioral activation, among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Macao (Special Administrative Region). The main objective of this pilot study is to explore the preliminary effectiveness of the SbS-F program to decrease participant-reported depressive symptoms compared to enhanced care as usual (ECAU); and the secondary objectives are to explore the preliminary effectiveness of the SbS-F to decrease participant-reported anxiety symptoms and improve wellbeing, and to evaluate the potential for SbS-F implementation in real-world settings.

Methods

This trial will follow an effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 1 trial design and utilize the Reach, Efficacy/Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework to accelerate the translation of clinical research into more effective implementation strategies and policies. Participants will be randomized 1:1 to control and treatment groups. Control group participants will receive ECAU that consists of brief depression psychoeducation and referral to local community partners. Treatment group participants will receive a 5-session of digital intervention through a mobile phone application. The primary outcome (depression) and psychological secondary outcomes (anxiety symptoms and wellbeing) will be measured using validated instruments. To evaluate study implementation, an embedded mixed-methods design will be used to collect data from various stakeholders. Data then will be analyzed using intention to treat principle and reported following the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guideline.

Discussion

This study will provide important new knowledge about the preliminary effectiveness of SbS-F, a mobile application, as a digital mental health intervention and its scalability. If SbS-F shows positive results among OFWs in Macao, it has strong potential to be used by OFWs in other countries that may also experience depression and difficulty accessing mental health services.

Trial registration

Prospective registration, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000034959) on 26/07/2020.
Artichoke extracts in cancer therapy: do the extraction conditions affect the anticancer activity?
Authors: Sokkar Heba H. , Abo Dena Ahmed S. , Mahana Noha Ahmed , Badr Abeer
Published: October 2020

Background

Artichoke is an edible plant that is grown in the Mediterranean region and is known for its antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer activities. Different artichoke extraction methods can impressively affect the nature as well as the yield of the extracted components.

Main body

The different methods of artichoke extraction and the influence of the extraction conditions on the extraction efficiency are summarized herein. In addition, cancer causalities and hallmarks together with the molecular mechanisms of artichoke active molecules in cancer treatment are also discussed. Moreover, a short background is given on the common types of cancer that can be treated with artichoke extracts as well as their pathogenesis. A brief discussion of the previous works devoted to the application of artichoke extracts in the treatment of these cancers is also given.

Conclusion

This review article covers the extraction methods, composition, utilization and applications of artichoke extracts in the treatment of different cancers.
Incidence and recovery of smell and taste dysfunction in COVID-19 positive patients
Authors: Al-Zaidi Haider Majid Haider , Badr Hani Musa
Published: October 2020

Background

This study aims to find the chemosensitive dysfunction incidence in COVID-19-positive patients and its recovery.

We collected the data from sixty-five patients, all COVID-19 positive, quarantined in-hospital between 5 April 2020 and 17 May 2020, by a questionnaire distributed in the quarantine ward.

Results

Smell dysfunction appeared in 89.23% with or without other symptoms of COVID-19. 39.66% of them recovered the sense of smell. Taste dysfunction found in 83.08% patients with other COVID-19 symptoms. Only 29.63% of them recovered. The recovery took 1–3 weeks, and most cases recovered within 1 week or less. 18.46% and 15.38% had smell and taste dysfunction, respectively, as the only symptom before COVID-19 confirmation. Most of the chemosensitive dysfunction affected the 4th decade of age in this study.

Conclusion

Chemosensitive dysfunction is associated with coronavirus disease and may be the only symptom that presents the disease. This makes the ENT doctors the first line of contact with the coronavirus. Further objective studies are required to cover chemosensitive dysfunctions, as the recognition of this dysfunction may help the diagnosis of COVID-19, and prevent the spread of this disease.
New Horizons in Microbiota and Metabolic Health Research
Authors: Mishra Sidharth P , Jain Shalini , Taraphder Subhash , Yadav Hariom
Published: October 2020

Decade-old studies have demonstrated that microbes living in our gut (microbiota) contribute to both maintaining normal metabolic function and to the pathology of metabolic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes. Emerging evidence suggests that gut microbiota influences the personalized effects of diets and drugs and impact the gut–brain axis and leaky gut inflammation to control metabolic function/diseases. Gut microbiota can be an ideal source of prognostic markers and therapies for metabolic diseases. Here we discuss the emerging concepts in the area of microbiota and metabolic interactions in personalized nutrition, drug response, and disease prognosis.
COVID-19: a roadmap to neurology recovery
Authors: Thomas Sue
Published: October 2020

The NHS is currently drawing up a ‘roadmap’ to recovery; likewise, neuroscience nurses need to look to the future to see how services will relaunch. Sue Thomas outlines the next stages, highlighting the NHS Reset initiative, and the issues surrounding the recovery strategy from the perspective of neurology services.
Developing a Hyperacute Stroke-Ready Nursing Workforce: a Service Improvement Initiative
Authors: Turner Nicola , Duarte Pedro , Jones Anthony , Dovaston Ian , Pitchforth David
Published: October 2020

Background

Thrombolysis treatment varies considerably between in- and out-of-hours services.

Aims

This improvement initiative aimed to upskill acute stroke unit nurses as stroke thrombolysis response nurses, testing a new model of nursing in readiness for hyperacute stroke unit developments.

Methods

Three registered nurses were trained to a specialist competency framework. The role was tested over 28 weeks, and times to treatment milestones were measured. Thrombolysed patients from the test period were statistically compared with a matched group using a two-sample t-test in Excel. Qualitative feedback was sought from the stroke team, medical and emergency department colleagues.

Findings

Median out-of-hours door-to-needle time reduced from 85 to 61.5 minutes. Statistically significant differences were seen in the time to stroke unit admission (p=0.012) and swallow screen (p=0.038). Stroke and emergency department colleagues considered the role essential to out-of-hours thrombolysis treatment.

Conclusions

The stroke thrombolysis response nurse role reduced variation in treatment and improved timely acute stroke care. This work may inform the development of stroke nursing workforce models.
The role of the nurse in the community stroke rehabilitation team: a personal perspective
Authors: Townshend Brenda
Published: October 2020

Excellent patient care often requires the collaboration of a range of health professionals, and stroke patient rehabilitation is no exception. Brenda Townshend offers insights from her personal journey as a nurse in a London-based community stroke rehabilitation team.