bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimally invasive surgical treatment of minimally displaced acetabular fractures does not improve pain, mobility or quality of life compared to conservative treatment: a matched-pair analysis of 50 patients
Authors: Swartman Benedict , Pelzer Johanna , Vetter Sven Yves , Beisemann Nils , Schnetzke Marc , Keil Holger , Gruetzner Paul Alfred , Franke Jochen
Published: March 2020

Background

Currently available procedures for the treatment of minimally displaced acetabular fractures include conservative treatment and minimally invasive percutaneous screw fixation. Screw fixation of acetabular fractures allows patients’ early full-weight bearing due to improved biomechanic stability. Can the range of motion, pain and mobility and quality of life in patients with acetabular fractures be improved by minimally invasive screw fixation, compared to conservative treatment in the long term?

Methods

Patients treated for a minimally displaced acetabular fracture, either conservatively or by closed reduction percutaneous screw fixation, in the period from 2001 to 2013 were included in this retrospective study. Minimal displacement was considered to be less than 5 mm. As well as the collection and analysis of baseline data, Harris Hip Score, Merle d’Aubigné score and Short Form 12 (SF-12) questionnaire data were recorded in the context of a clinical study. To better account for confounding factors, patients of each group were matched. The matched-pair criteria included age, BMI, Letournel fracture classification and the presence of associated injuries.

Results

Twenty-five patients from each group were matched. On the Harris Hip Score, conservatively treated patients obtained 96 points (52–100, SD 17) vs. 89 points (45–100, SD 17,p= 0.624). On the Merle d’Aubigné score, conservatively treated patients obtained 17 points (10–18, SD 2) vs. 17 points (11–18, SD 2,p= 0.342).

Patients with acetabular fractures treated by minimally invasive screw fixation did not result in improved quality of life, measured by SF-12 questionnaire, compared to conservatively treated patients (PCS 47, SD 9 vs. 44, SD 10;p= 0.294 and MCS 51, SD 7 vs. 53, SD 7;p= 0.795).

Conclusions

The clinical results of the two groups revealed no statistically significant differences. From the data, it cannot be deduced that minimally invasive surgical therapy is superior to conservative treatment of minimally displaced acetabular fractures. Prospective randomised studies are recommended to allow reliable evaluation of both treatment options.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered
Prognostic value of clinical and morphologic findings in patients with type B aortic intramural hematoma
Authors: Li Zilun , Liu Chenshu , Wu Ridong , Zhang Jian , Pan Hong , Tan Jinghong , Guo Zhuang , Guo Yingying , Yu Nan , Yao Chen , Chang Guangqi
Published: March 2020

Background

Aortic intramural hematoma (IMH) is a subset of acute aortic syndrome, and its prognosis may differ between races. This study aimed to study the prognosis of Chinese type B IMH patients and to find out risk factors.

Methods

A total of 71 type B IMH patients with or without penetrating atherosclerosis ulcer (PAU) administrated in our center between September 2013 and October 2017 were retrospectively studied. Both clinical and imaging data were collected and analyzed. The primary end point was aorta-related death, and the secondary end point was progression, which was defined as enlargement of aorta, increased aortic wall thickness, and aortic dissection or aneurysm formation. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were used for prognostic analysis.

Results

Among these 71 patients, 21 had simple type B IMH, when 50 had type B IMH in association with PAU. Twenty-five patients received optimal medical therapy (OMT) alone, while 46 patients received surgery and OMT. The mean follow-up time was 27.5 ± 13.5 months. For type B IMH patients, association with PAU indicated poor prognosis and required more intensive management (HR = 16.68, 1.96~141.87), while maximum aortic diameter (MAD) was an independent risk factor (HR = 1.096, 1.016~1.182). For patients with PAU-IMH, MAD was an independent risk factor (HR = 1.04, 1.021~1.194), while surgical treatment was independent protective factor (HR = 0.172, 0.042~0.696).

Conclusion

Association with PAU and MAD were independent risk factors for type B IMH patients. Surgery may improve the outcomes for type B IMH in association with PAU.
Mapping deep peat carbon stock from a LiDAR based DTM and field measurements, with application to eastern Sumatra
Authors: Vernimmen Ronald , Hooijer Aljosja , Akmalia Rizka , Fitranatanegara Natan , Mulyadi Dedi , Yuherdha Angga , Andreas Heri , Page Susan
Published: March 2020

Background

Reduction of carbon emissions from peatlands is recognized as an important factor in global climate change mitigation. Within the SE Asia region, areas of deeper peat present the greatest carbon stocks, and therefore the greatest potential for future carbon emissions from degradation and fire. They also support most of the remaining lowland swamp forest and its associated biodiversity. Accurate maps of deep peat are central to providing correct estimates of peat carbon stocks and to facilitating appropriate management interventions. We present a rapid and cost-effective approach to peat thickness mapping in raised peat bogs that applies a model of peat bottom elevation based on field measurements subtracted from a surface elevation model created from airborne LiDAR data.

Results

In two raised peat bog test areas in Indonesia, we find that field peat thickness measurements correlate well with surface elevation derived from airborne LiDAR based DTMs (R2 0.83–0.88), confirming that the peat bottom is often relatively flat. On this basis, we created a map of extent and depth of deep peat (> 3 m) from a new DTM that covers two-thirds of Sumatran peatlands, applying a flat peat bottom of 0.61 m +MSL determined from the average of 2446 field measurements. A deep peat area coverage of 2.6 Mha or 60.1% of the total peat area in eastern Sumatra is mapped, suggesting that deep peat in this region is more common than shallow peat and its extent was underestimated in earlier maps. The associated deep peat carbon stock range is 9.0–11.5 Pg C in eastern Sumatra alone.

Conclusion

We discuss how the deep peat map may be used to identify priority areas for peat and forest conservation and thereby help prevent major potential future carbon emissions and support the safeguarding of the remaining forest and biodiversity. We propose rapid application of this method to other coastal raised bog peatland areas in SE Asia in support of improved peatland zoning and management. We demonstrate that the upcoming global ICESat-2 and GEDI satellite LiDAR coverage will likely result in a global DTM that, within a few years, will be sufficiently accurate for this application.
Fatigability in spinal muscular atrophy: validity and reliability of endurance shuttle tests
Authors: Bartels Bart , de Groot Janke F. , Habets Laura E. , Wijngaarde Camiel A. , Vink Wendy , Stam Marloes , Asselman Fay-Lynn , van Eijk Ruben P. A. , van der Pol W. Ludo
Published: March 2020

Background

To determine construct validity and test-retest reliability of Endurance Shuttle Tests as outcome measures for fatigability of remaining motor functions in children and adults with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) across the severity spectrum.

Results

We assessed the Endurance Shuttle - Nine Hole Peg Test (ESNHPT), − Box and Block Test (ESBBT) and – Walk Test (ESWT) in 61 patients with SMA types 2–4, 25 healthy controls (HC) and 15 disease controls (DC). Convergent validity, discriminative validity and test-retest reliability were investigated. Additionally, we compiled the Endurance Shuttle Combined Score (ESTCS) by selecting the most relevant endurance test of each individual. 54, 70 and 73% of patients with SMA demonstrated increased fatigability on the ESNHPT, ESBBT and the ESWT. Endurance response in SMA was characterized by a decrease in muscle strength, an increase in muscle fatigue and an increase in motor adaptions, thereby confirming convergent validity. Patients with SMA showed increased drop-out rates and a shorter endurance time compared to HC and DC demonstrating good discriminative validity. Test-retest reliability was moderate to excellent (ICC’s ranging from .78 to .91) with a trend towards better performance on retest. The ESTCS increased sample size and drop-out rate up to 100 and 85%.

Conclusions

Fatigability is an important additional dimension of physical impairments across the severity spectrum in children and adults with SMA. The EST’s are reliable and valid to document fatigability of walking, proximal- and distal arm function in SMA and thus are promising outcome measures for use in clinical trials.
Aging-related motor function and dopaminergic neuronal loss in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Noda Sachiko , Sato Shigeto , Fukuda Takahiro , Tada Norihiro , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: March 2020

Aging-related dopaminergic neuronal loss and its motor phenotypes are well known. Excessive loss of dopaminergic neurons leads to Parkinson’s disease (PD), the most common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of nigrostriatal dopamine–producing neurons. In mice, however, aging-related dopaminergic neuronal loss and its consequences for motor function are poorly understood. We observed the phenotype of wild-type C57BL/6 mice over an extended period of time. C57BL/6 mice exhibited age-dependent locomotor impairments, including hindlimb defects and the number of dopaminergic neurons decreased in aged mice, contributing to locomotor dysfunction. We observed a reduction in striatal dopamine levels in aged mice using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Thus, dopamine levels are affected by the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, fragmented mitochondria were observed in dopaminergic neurons of aged mice but not in those of young mice. Aging-related dopaminergic neuronal loss and accumulation of damaged mitochondria may underlie the pathophysiology of aging.
Oncogenic and drug-sensitive RET mutations in human epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Guan Luyao , Li Zhang , Xie Feifei , Pang Yuzhi , Zhang Chenyun , Tang Haosha , Zhang Hao , Chen Chun , Zhan Yaying , Zhao Ting , Jiang Hongyuan , Jia Xiaona , Wang Yuexiang , Lu Yuan
Published: March 2020

Background

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a highly lethal malignancy. Improvement in genetic characterization of EOC patients is required to propose new potential targets, since surgical resection coupled to chemotherapy, presents several limits such as cancer recurrence and drug resistance. Targeted therapies have more efficacy and less toxicity than standard treatments. One of the most relevant cancer-specific actionable targets are protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) whose role in EOC need to be better investigated.

Methods

EOC genomic datasets are retrieved and analyzed. The biological and clinical significance ofRETgenomic aberrations in ovarian cancer context are investigated by a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results

Epithelial ovarian cancer sequencing projects identify recurrent genomicRETmissense mutations in 1.98% of patients, ranking as the top-five hit among the 100 receptor tyrosine kinases-encoding genes. RET mutants R693H and A750T show oncogenic transformation properties in NIH3T3 cells. Introduction of the RET mutants into human EOC cells increases RET signaling, cell viability, anchorage-independent cell growth and tumor xenograft growth in nude mice, demonstrating that they are activating mutations. RET mutants significantly enhance the activation of RET and its downstream MAPK and AKT signaling pathway in ovarian cancer cells. Vandetanib, a clinical approved RET inhibitor, inhibits the cell viability and decreases the activation of RET-MAPK signaling pathways in EOC cells expressing oncogenic RET mutants.

Conclusions

The discovery of RET pathogenic variants in the EOC patients, suggests a previously underestimated role for RET in EOC tumorigenesis. The identification of the gain-of-functionRETmutations in EOC highlights the potential use of RET in targeted therapy to treat ovarian cancer patients.
Changes in shunt, ventilation/perfusion mismatch, and lung aeration with PEEP in patients with ARDS: a prospective single-arm interventional study
Authors: Karbing Dan Stieper , Panigada Mauro , Bottino Nicola , Spinelli Elena , Protti Alessandro , Rees Stephen Edward , Gattinoni Luciano
Published: March 2020

Background

Several studies have found only a weak to moderate correlation between oxygenation and lung aeration in response to changes in PEEP. This study aimed to investigate the association between changes in shunt, low and high ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) mismatch, and computed tomography-measured lung aeration following an increase in PEEP in patients with ARDS.

Methods

In this preliminary study, 12 ARDS patients were subjected to recruitment maneuvers followed by setting PEEP at 5 and then either 15 or 20 cmH2O. Lung aeration was measured by computed tomography. Values of pulmonary shunt and low and high V/Q mismatch were calculated by a model-based method from measurements of oxygenation, ventilation, and metabolism taken at different inspired oxygen levels and an arterial blood gas sample.

Results

Increasing PEEP resulted in reduced values of pulmonary shunt and the percentage of non-aerated tissue, and an increased percentage of normally aerated tissue (p < 0.05). Changes in shunt and normally aerated tissue were significantly correlated (r = − 0.665, p = 0.018). Three distinct responses to increase in PEEP were observed in values of shunt and V/Q mismatch: a beneficial response in seven patients, where shunt decreased without increasing high V/Q; a detrimental response in four patients where both shunt and high V/Q increased; and a detrimental response in a patient with reduced shunt but increased high V/Q mismatch. Non-aerated tissue decreased with increased PEEP in all patients, and hyperinflated tissue increased only in patients with a detrimental response in shunt and V/Q mismatch.

Conclusions

The results show that improved lung aeration following an increase in PEEP is not always consistent with reduced shunt and V/Q mismatch. Poorly matched redistribution of ventilation and perfusion, between dependent and non-dependent regions of the lung, may explain why patients showed detrimental changes in shunt and V/Q mismatch on increase in PEEP, despite improved aeration.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrails.gov, NCT04067154. Retrospectively registered on August 26, 2019.
Obstacles to detecting isoforms using full-length scRNA-seq data
Authors: Westoby Jennifer , Artemov Pavel , Hemberg Martin , Ferguson-Smith Anne
Published: March 2020

Background

Early single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) studies suggested that it was unusual to see more than one isoform being produced from a gene in a single cell, even when multiple isoforms were detected in matched bulk RNA-seq samples. However, these studies generally did not consider the impact of dropouts or isoform quantification errors, potentially confounding the results of these analyses.

Results

In this study, we take a simulation based approach in which we explicitly account for dropouts and isoform quantification errors. We use our simulations to ask to what extent it is possible to study alternative splicing using scRNA-seq. Additionally, we ask what limitations must be overcome to make splicing analysis feasible. We find that the high rate of dropouts associated with scRNA-seq is a major obstacle to studying alternative splicing. In mice and other well-established model organisms, the relatively low rate of isoform quantification errors poses a lesser obstacle to splicing analysis. We find that different models of isoform choice meaningfully change our simulation results.

Conclusions

To accurately study alternative splicing with single-cell RNA-seq, a better understanding of isoform choice and the errors associated with scRNA-seq is required. An increase in the capture efficiency of scRNA-seq would also be beneficial. Until some or all of the above are achieved, we do not recommend attempting to resolve isoforms in individual cells using scRNA-seq.
HiNT: a computational method for detecting copy number variations and translocations from Hi-C data
Authors: Wang Su , Lee Soohyun , Chu Chong , Jain Dhawal , Kerpedjiev Peter , Nelson Geoffrey M. , Walsh Jennifer M. , Alver Burak H. , Park Peter J.
Published: March 2020

The three-dimensional conformation of a genome can be profiled using Hi-C, a technique that combines chromatin conformation capture with high-throughput sequencing. However, structural variations often yield features that can be mistaken for chromosomal interactions. Here, we describe a computational method HiNT (Hi-C for copy Number variation and Translocation detection), which detects copy number variations and interchromosomal translocations within Hi-C data with breakpoints at single base-pair resolution. We demonstrate that HiNT outperforms existing methods on both simulated and real data. We also show that Hi-C can supplement whole-genome sequencing in structure variant detection by locating breakpoints in repetitive regions.
Efficacy and safety of PERIOdontal treatment versus usual care for Nonalcoholic liver disease: protocol of the PERION multicenter, two-arm, open-label, randomized trial
Authors: Kamata Yohei , Kessoku Takaomi , Shimizu Tomoko , Kobayashi Takashi , Kurihashi Takeo , Sato Satsuki , Kuraji Syotaro , Aoyama Norio , Iwasaki Tomoyuki , Takashiba Shogo , Hamada Nobushiro , Kodama Toshiro , Tamura Toshiyuki , Ino Satoshi , Higurashi Takuma , Taguri Masataka , Yamanaka Takeharu , Yoneda Masato , Usuda Haruki , Wada Koichiro , Nakajima Atsushi , Minabe Masato
Published: March 2020

Background

We report the first protocol for a multicenter, randomized comparison study to compare the efficacies of periodontal scaling and root-planing treatment against that of tooth-brushing treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (PERION: PERIOdontal treatment for NAFLD). Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an advanced form of NAFLD, which can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Increased endotoxemia is associated with the progression of NAFLD. Periodontal bacteria possess endotoxins; Porphyromonas gingivalis is well-known as a major pathogenic bacterium in periodontitis, and serum antibody levels for P. gingivalis are high in patients with periodontitis. Several reports have indicated that P. gingivalis is related to NAFLD. This study aims to investigate the effect of periodontal treatment for liver damage, P. gingivalis infection, and endotoxemia on patients with NAFLD.

Methods

We will include adult patients (20–85 years old) with NAFLD, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ≥ 40 IU/L, and equivalent steatosis grade ≥ 1 (target sample size, n = 40 patients; planned number of patients with outcome data, n = 32). Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: a scaling and root-planing group or tooth-brushing as the usual group. The primary outcome will be the change in ALT levels from baseline to 12 weeks; the key secondary outcome will be the change in the serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody titer for P. gingivalis at 12 weeks.

Discussion

This study should determine whether periodontal treatment decreases liver damage, P. gingivalis infection, and endotoxemia in patients with NAFLD.

Trial registration

University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry, ID: UMIN000022079.
Treatment modalities and drug survival in a systemic sclerosis real-life patient cohort
Authors: Panopoulos S. , Chatzidionysiou Κ. , Tektonidou M. G. , Bournia V. K. , Drosos A. A. , Liossis Stamatis-Nick C. , Dimitroulas T. , Sakkas L. , Boumpas D. , Voulgari P. V. , Daoussis D. , Thomas K. , Georgiopoulos G. , Vosvotekas G. , Garyfallos Α. , Sidiropoulos P. , Bertsias G. , Vassilopoulos D. , Sfikakis P. P.
Published: March 2020

Background

European data indicate that systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related death rates are increasing, thus raising concerns about SSc’s optimal management. Herein, we describe current treatment modalities and drug survival in a real-life SSc cohort.

Methods

Details on immunosuppressive/antiproliferative (methotrexate, mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, rituximab, tocilizumab) and vasoactive agent [(endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs), sildenafil, iloprost, and calcium channel blockers (CCB)] administration during the disease course (11.8 ± 8.4 years, mean + SD) of 497 consecutive patients examined between 2016 and 2018 were retrospectively recorded. Drug survival was assessed by Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

Methotrexate was the most frequently administered immunosuppressive/antiproliferative agent (53% of patients), followed by cyclophosphamide (26%), mycophenolate (12%), and azathioprine (11%). Regarding vasoactive agents, CCB had been ever administered in 68%, ERAs in 38%, iloprost in 7%, and sildenafil in 7% of patients; 23% of patients with pulmonary fibrosis had never received immunosuppressive/antiproliferative agents, 33% of those with digital ulcers had never received ERAs, iloprost, or sildenafil, whereas 19% of all patients had never received either immunosuppressive/antiproliferative or other than CCB vasoactive agents. Survival rates of methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate differed significantly, being 84/75%, 59/43%, and 74/63% at 12/24 months, respectively, with inefficacy being the most frequent discontinuation cause. Conversely, CCB, ERAs, and sildenafil had high and comparable retention rates of 97/91%, 88/86%, and 80/80%, respectively.

Conclusions

Existing therapeutic limitations indicate that more evidence-based treatment is warranted for successful management of SSc. Vasculopathy seems to be managed more rigorously, but the low retention rates of immunosuppressive/antiproliferative drugs suggest that effective and targeted disease-modifying agents are warranted.
Enhancing primary care and preventive services through Interprofessional practice and education
Authors: Fowler Terri , Garr David , Mager Natalie Di Pietro , Stanley Joan
Published: March 2020

Interprofessional (IP) practice and education are important when seeking to respond to the growing demand for primary and preventive care services. Multiple professions with synergistic expertise are needed to effectively provide health promotion, disease prevention, and patient education and to help patients with multiple comorbidities, chronic health conditions, and care coordination. A recent study by Schor et al. titled, “Multidisciplinary work promotes preventive medicine and health education in primary care: a cross-sectional survey,” compares the implementation of preventive services in three primary care models. Higher rates of health services, patient education, and health outcomes were documented in two different models of care involving persons in multiple professions when compared with independent solo physicians’ practices. In this commentary, we focus on the value of IP team-based care, continuing professional development, and the impact of the team on practice performance and health outcomes. Key components of effective IP teams include using consistent terminology to describe the team composition and function, team structures with purposeful selection of professions to address gaps in care, leadership support, and IP continuing professional development and education.
Terminal handover in software-defined WLANs
Authors: Chen Zhaohui , Luo Zhaoyang , Duan Xiaohui , Zhang Lianming
Published: March 2020

With the development of wireless LAN (WLAN) technology, wireless access points (APs) are deployed increasingly more and the number of mobile terminals is increasing. It is normal for a mobile terminal to hand over its AP. The traditional terminal handover method cannot effectively control the handover delay and balance the network load due to the inherent drawbacks such as closed encapsulation and the lack of centralized control. In this paper, we introduce the innovative network architecture of software-defined networking (SDN), propose a software-defined WLAN architecture, and propose a seamless handover method and a load balancing handover method of the software-defined WLAN. Experimental results show that the proposed handover method effectively reduces the handover delay, balances the network load, and improves the quality of service (QoS) and resource utilization of the network.
Correction to: Does the preoperative platelet-tolymphocyte ratio and neutrophil-tolymphocyte ratio predict morbidity after gastrectomy for gastric cancer?
Authors: Mungan İbrahim , Dicle Çilem Bayındır , Bektaş Şerife , Sarı Sema , Yamanyar Serdar , Çavuş Mine , Turan Sema , Bostancı Erdal Birol
Published: March 2020

In the original publication of this article [1] there are two garbled codes in the second sentence, the fourth paragraph of the Background section. The correct sentence should be: Tumor growth leads to the increased production of inflammatory cytokines and growth factors (mainly IL-1, IL-3, IL-6, IL-11, IL-23, and TNF-), and this perpetual process ensures immortality. These promoting factors are also important for angiogenesis and hematopoiesis, which explains the increase in blood cell types in cancerous diseases. The original publication has been corrected.
Secondary plant products against Culex pipiens (Linn.), with reference to some changes detected by scanning electron microscope
Authors: Osman Khalid , AL-Emam Ahmed , Moustafa Mahmoud
Published: March 2020

To find environment-friendly and low pest resistance natural mosquitocide, the bio-effects of smokes and oils obtained from leaves of Eucalyptus globulus and Ocimum basilicum against Culex pipiens (Linn.) were investigated. An influence of smokes and oils was tested on the loss ratio of eggs, larvae, pupae, and adult mortality of 1st and 2nd generations of Culex pipiens. Morphological changes of the 2nd generation, including antennae and mouthparts of larvae and adults, were examined by using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The smokes of O. basilicum and E. globulus reduced the ratio value of the insect, especially the eggs’ number and adults significantly within 2 generations that lasted 82 days. The impact of O. basilicum smokes on the larval molting and mortality rate was 83.15 and 95.05%, respectively, compared to 29.85 and 82.43 % for E. globulus. The lethal effect of O. basilicum smoke on adults had a loss rate of 100% in both generations than 75.86% by E. globulus. Essential oils from O. basilicum and E. globulus showed a severe and rapid killing effect of C. pipiens within 8 days with a loss ratio of 99.47 and 81.38% of larvae from eggs, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy showed that both smokes could cause prominent malformation to the larval antennae, siphon, and adult mouthparts. In conclusion, either E. globulus or O. basilicum smokes in the long term or either of their oils in the short term could be used as natural repellent agents against Culex pipiens.
Parasitus fimetorum and Macrocheles muscaedomesticae (Acarina:Parasitidae, Macrochelidae) as Natural Predators of the Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne javanica Treub
Authors: Heikal Hany Mohamed
Published: March 2020

The potential use of two predacious mites,Parasitus fimetorum(Berlese 1904) andMacrocheles muscaedomesticae(Scopoli 1972), for controlling the root knot nematode,Meloidogyne javanicaTreub 1885 was evaluated under laboratory and semi-field conditions. Obtained results revealed that the 2 predators significantly reduced the root knot nematode numbers.In addition, the highest reduction percentage (57.24%) in nematode juveniles was recorded at the treatment of (1000 nematode + 10 mites). ForM. muscaedomesticae,the highest mortality percentage (50.83%) in nematode juveniles was recorded at the treatment of (1000 nematode + 50 mites), followed by (1000 nematodes + 20 mites) 48.88%, while the treatment of (1000 nematode + 10 mites) gave (47.13%). The combination of the 2 mite species (1000 nematodes + 50 mites/species) caused the highest mortality percentages in nematode juveniles (69.29%), followed by (1000 nematodes + 20 mite/species) 50.51% and the treatment of (1000 nematode + 10 mite/species) (37.66%). At the pot experiments, the highest overall mortality percentage inM. javanicajuveniles was recorded at the treatment ofP. fimetorum+M. muscaedomesticaegiving (57.07%), followed by the treatment ofP. fimetorum(39.17%), and then, byM. muscaedomesticaealone that recorded only (17.47%). In conclusion, predacious mites can be partially considered a control tool of the parasitic nematodes.
Multimodal intervention program to improve hand hygiene compliance: effectiveness and challenges
Authors: Ben Fredj Sihem , Ben Cheikh Asma , Bhiri Sana , Ghali Hela , Khefacha Salwa , Dhidah Lamine , Merzougui Latifa , Ben Rejeb Mohamed , Said Latiri Houyem
Published: March 2020

Background

Hand hygiene (HH) is considered the most important measure to tackle the transmission of healthcare-associated pathogens. However, compliance with recommendations is usually low and effective improvement strategies are needed. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of an intervention targeting hand hygiene promotion among healthcare workers (HCWs).

Methods

We conducted a pre-post interventional study design in the university hospital Sahloul, Sousse, Tunisia, from January 2015 to December 2016. The intervention program consisted of training sessions and distribution of posters of hand hygiene guidelines. To assess the evolution of HH observance at pre- and post-intervention, the same observation form was distributed and collected at healthcare workers’ workplace.

Results

Of the 1201 and 1057 opportunities for hand hygiene observed among all categories of HCWs, overall compliance enhanced significantly from 32.1 to 39.4% (p < 0.001) respectively at pre- and post-intervention. Nurses were the most compliant with a significant improvement from 34.1 to 45.7% (p < 0.001) respectively at pre- and post-intervention. Furthermore, analysis by department showed significant improvement of compliance in orthopedic department (p < 0.001), maxillofacial-surgery department (p < 0.001), pediatrics department (p = 0.013), and emergencies (p = 0.038).

Conclusion

This study showed the feasibility and effectiveness of a health-setting-based intervention to enhance hand hygiene observance in the context of a developing country.
Update on the genetic and epigenetic etiology of gestational diabetes mellitus: a review
Authors: Yahaya Tajudeen O. , Salisu Titilola , Abdulrahman Yusuf B. , Umar Abdulrazak K.
Published: March 2020

Background

Many studies have been conducted on the genetic and epigenetic etiology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the last two decades because of the disease’s increasing prevalence and role in global diabetes mellitus (DM) explosion. An update on the genetic and epigenetic etiology of GDM then becomes imperative to better understand and stem the rising incidence of the disease. This review, therefore, articulated GDM candidate genes and their pathophysiology for the awareness of stakeholders.

Main body (genetic and epigenetic etiology, GDM)

The search discovered 83 GDM candidate genes, of which TCF7L2, MTNR1B, CDKAL1, IRS1, and KCNQ1 are the most prevalent. Certain polymorphisms of these genes can modulate beta-cell dysfunction, adiposity, obesity, and insulin resistance through several mechanisms. Environmental triggers such as diets, pollutants, and microbes may also cause epigenetic changes in these genes, resulting in a loss of insulin-boosting and glucose metabolism functions. Early detection and adequate management may resolve the condition after delivery; otherwise, it will progress to maternal type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and fetal configuration to future obesity and DM. This shows that GDM is a strong risk factor for T2DM and, in rare cases, type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY). This further shows that GDM significantly contributes to the rising incidence and burden of DM worldwide and its prevention may reverse the trend.

Conclusion

Mutations and epigenetic changes in certain genes are strong risk factors for GDM. For affected individuals with such etiologies, medical practitioners should formulate drugs and treatment procedures that target these genes and their pathophysiology.
Risk-based cost-benefit analysis of climate adaptation measures for Australian contemporary houses under extreme winds
Authors: Qin Hao , Stewart Mark G.
Published: March 2020

Climate adaptation measures improve housing resilience to extreme winds, and reduce economic losses associated with wind and rainfall damage under a changing climate. Several adaptation measures are adopted in this study for Australian contemporary houses subjected to non-cyclonic windstorms to either reinforce the building envelope or increase the water resistance of building interior. A risk-based cost-benefit analysis is conducted to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of these adaptation measures that considers the effect of construction defects. It was found that the annual expected losses for houses in Brisbane with construction defects are considerably higher than those without considering construction defects, whereas the influence of construction defects is lower for the Melbourne houses. The cost-benefit analysis reveals that strengthening windows is cost-effective for Brisbane and Melbourne houses. Installing window shutters significantly reduces economic risks associated with extreme winds and is cost-effective for houses in Brisbane. Adaptation measures are generally not cost-effective for Melbourne houses due to lower extreme wind speed and associated rainfall.
Drug pollution and pharmacotherapy in psychiatry: A “platypus” in the room
Authors: Lertxundi Unax , Hernández Rafael , Medrano Juan , Orive Gorka
Published: March 2020

Preoccupation about potential deleterious effects of pharmaceuticals in the environment is growing fast. Psychiatric pharmaceuticals have received particular attention because of their increasing use and their potential impacts on many living beings due to their effects on phylogenetically highly conserved neuroendocrine systems. Recent studies that have shown that many pharmaceuticals (including psychotropics) bioaccumulate through the web food have raised this concern into new heights. As professionals working in the field of psychiatry and academia, we believe we are about to enter a new era with regard to pharmacotherapy. We estimate drug pollution will have a major impact on our daily practice in a way we are just starting to imagine. So far, this problem has largely been ignored by healthcare professionals, who are the ones prescribing and dispensing pharmaceuticals. We are convinced that increasing awareness among these professionals will be a key element to effectively fight against drug pollution.
Addressing Cancer Treatment Shortages in Saudi Arabia: Results of a National Survey and Expert Panel Recommendations
Authors: AlAzmi Aeshah A. , Jastaniah Wasil , Alhamdan Hani S. , AlYamani Arwa O. , AlKhudhyr Waleed I. , Abdullah Shaker M. , AlZahrani Mohammed , AlSahafi Ashraf , AlOhali Tawfiq A. , Alkhelawi Trad , AlObaida Yasser , Allam Ayman , Al-Hashmi Hani , Murshid Essam , AlNajjar Fouad , AlGethami Ashwag , AlHarbi Atika , AlFoheidi Meteb O. , AlSaeed Ahmad S. , Elsolh Hassan , Abosoudah Ibraheem , Ben Obaid Abdulaziz , AlNahedh Mohammed
Published: March 2020

PURPOSE

Cancer treatment shortages are complex and a persistent problem worldwide. Patients with cancer are most vulnerable to drug shortages, which provides opportunities to examine the extent of the challenge(s) facing Saudi Arabia and to provide recommendations toward mitigating the impact of cancer treatment shortages on patient outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A qualitative methodologic approach was conducted in April 2019 using a validated questionnaire and structured panel discussion for data generation.

RESULTS

Overall, 55 responses were received from practicing oncology health care professionals (26 pharmacists and 29 physicians). The annual average number of treated patients with cancer per institution was 640 (adults [n = 400] and pediatric [n = 240]). All respondents (100%) reported that cancer treatment shortages constitute a current problem in their center, with an average of 5 (range, 1-9) per month. The panelists recognized 2 fundamental points. First, the definition of cancer drug shortages should be standardized and recognized at the national level. Second, the current system must be improved to ensure proper and efficient use of the current resources. On that basis, the panelists developed 9 recommendations for action.

CONCLUSION

Cancer drug shortage is a significant problem in all health centers in Saudi Arabia. This study presents challenges that should be addressed at the national level and essential consensus recommendations for a coordinated action developed by a panel of experts to tackle the current national problem of cancer treatment shortages. Implementing these recommendations will provide a blueprint for management of national drug shortages in general and cancer treatment shortages in particular.
Novel Insights into Pituitary Tumorigenesis: Genetic and Epigenetic Mechanisms
Authors: Srirangam Nadhamuni Vinaya , Korbonits Márta
Published: March 2020

Substantial advances have been made recently in the pathobiology of pituitary tumors. Similar to many other endocrine tumors, over the last few years we have recognized the role of germline and somatic mutations in a number of syndromic or nonsyndromic conditions with pituitary tumor predisposition. These include the identification of novel germline variants in patients with familial or simplex pituitary tumors and establishment of novel somatic variants identified through next generation sequencing. Advanced techniques have allowed the exploration of epigenetic mechanisms mediated through DNA methylation, histone modifications and noncoding RNAs, such as microRNA, long noncoding RNAs and circular RNAs. These mechanisms can influence tumor formation, growth, and invasion. While genetic and epigenetic mechanisms often disrupt similar pathways, such as cell cycle regulation, in pituitary tumors there is little overlap between genes altered by germline, somatic, and epigenetic mechanisms. The interplay between these complex mechanisms driving tumorigenesis are best studied in the emerging multiomics studies. Here, we summarize insights from the recent developments in the regulation of pituitary tumorigenesis.
Temperature has a causal and plastic effect on timing of breeding in a small songbird
Authors: Verhagen Irene , Tomotani Barbara M , Gienapp Phillip , Visser Marcel E
Published: March 2020

Phenotypic plasticity is an important mechanism by which an individual can adapt its seasonal timing to predictable, short-term environmental changes by using predictive cues. Identification of these cues is crucial to forecast species’ response to long-term environmental change and to study their potential to adapt. Individual great tits (Parus major) start reproduction early under warmer conditions in the wild, but whether this effect is causal is not well known. We housed 36 pairs in climate-controlled aviaries and 40 pairs in outdoor aviaries, where they bred under artificial contrasting temperature treatments or in semi-natural conditions, respectively, for two consecutive years, using great tits from lines selected for early and late egg laying. We thus obtained laying dates in two different thermal environments for each female. Females bred earlier under warmer conditions in climate-controlled aviaries, but not in outdoor aviaries. The latter was inconsistent with laying dates from our wild population. Further, early selection line females initiated egg laying consistently ∼9 days earlier compared to late selection line females in outdoor aviaries, but we found no difference in the degree of plasticity (i.e. the sensitivity to temperature) in laying date between selection lines. Because we find that temperature causally affects laying date, climate change will lead to earlier laying. This advancement is however unlikely to be sufficient, thereby leading to selection for earlier laying. Our results suggest that natural selection may lead to a change in mean phenotype, but not to a change in the sensitivity of laying dates to temperature.
Habituation of the cardiovascular responses to restraint stress is inhibited by exposure to other stressor stimuli and exercise training
Authors: Benini Ricardo , Oliveira Leandro A. , Gomes-de-Souza Lucas , Rodrigues Bruno , Crestani Carlos C.
Published: March 2020

This study evaluated the effect of exposure to either a chronic variable stress (CVS) protocol or social isolation, as well as to treadmill exercise training, in the habituation of the cardiovascular responses upon repeated exposure to restraint stress in rats. The habituation of the corticosterone response to repeated restraint stress was also evaluated. For this, animals were subjected to either acute or 10 daily sessions of 60 min of restraint stress. CVS and social isolation protocols lasted 10 consecutive days, whereas treadmill training was performed 1h/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks. We observed that serum corticosterone increase was decreased during both the stress and the recovery period of the 10th session of restraint. Habituation of the cardiovascular responses was identified in terms of a faster return of heart rate to baseline values during the recovery period of the 10th session of restraint. The increase in blood pressure and the decrease in tail skin temperature were similar at the first and 10th session of restraint. Exposure to either CVS, social isolation or treadmill exercise training inhibited the habituation of the restraint-evoked tachycardia. Besides, CVS increased the blood pressure response at the 10th session of restraint, whereas social isolation enhanced both the tachycardia during the first session and the drop in skin temperature at the 10th session of restraint. Taken together, these findings provide new evidence that pathologies evoked by stress might be related to impairment in the habituation process to homotypic stressors.
Gold and Silver - but safe?
Authors: Parak N. , Lippusch M. , Naylor C. , Steyskall A. , Joubert Isabella A. , Himly Martin , Geppert Mark
Published: March 2020

Gold (Au) and silver (Ag) nanopartucles (NPs) are frequently used in medicine (drug delivery, wound dressings) but also more and more icorporated in every-day life products, such as functional clothing. Therfore, a comprehensive dafety assessment of such particles is essential. Teh aim of this work was the investigation of the suitability of standard DIN-EN-ISO protocolis for cytotoxicity assessment of NPs.
Nan-O-Style – experiments and arts
Authors: Collavo G. , Lalayev A. , Angerer S. , Kraml M. , Bachner S. , Kirchgasser K. , Schmeel J. , Trummer C. , Joubert I.A. , Geppert M. , Schaffer K. , Nestelbacher R. , Himly M.
Published: March 2020

In this project, high school students (aged 16-17) tested various protocols of experiments in nanotechnology and evaluated them whether such experiments could also be performed by middle school students (aged 11-15) or even elementary school students (aged 6-10). Protocols pre-selected and provided by the instructing team consisting of Sciencetainment and the Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg were applied. Laboratory techniques such as thin-layer chromatography, measuring the contact angle by high-resolution 3D microscopy and analyzing and constructing surface layers represented some of the experiments performed. Moreover, students produced short video clips and images and designed photo-collages out of microscopic and electron microscopic pictures. Hence, the school students acquired a number of soft skills during this special science day.
Dynamic Nonlinear Pricing of Inventories over Finite Sales Horizons
Authors: Gallego Guillermo , Li Michael Z. F. , Liu Yan
Published: March 2020

Nonlinear pricing is frequently used by fast-fashion retailers (e.g., Zara). Discounts of the form “Buy 2, get 20% off” or “Buy 3 and save 30%” are becoming common. As revealed in a recent study by Gallego et al. (2019), nonlinear dynamic pricing can significantly improve a company’s revenue, by as much as 30%–90%, especially when inventories are high and the relative value of the marginal unit is neither too low nor too high, a situation that is common in fast-fashion retailing. They find that a single quantity discount threshold can capture most of the benefits of nonlinear pricing. The simplicity of this policy validates observed practice and concentrates managerial efforts to dynamically selecting the threshold and the depth of the discount.
Monitoring Kepatuhan Peraturan Kawasan Tanpa Rokok di Lingkungan Sekolah Kota Yogyakarta
Authors: Trisnowati Heni , Marlinawati Utari
Published: March 2020

Background: Smoke-Free School (SFS) policy have been implemented since 2015. These regulations include elementary schools, junior high schools, senior high schools and vocational high schools both private and public. SFS policy aims to create a clean, healthy and smoke-free school environment. Beside, SFS policy is the only effective way to protect the community (school residents) from the dangers of smoke, but the regulation has not been fully implemented by schools in the city of Yogyakarta. This study aims to describe the compliance of SFSP in schools throughout the city of Yogyakarta and the challenges of implementing these regulations. Method: This study used a quantitative method with cross-sectional survey design and observation. The population in this study were all schools in the city of Yogyakarta including elementary, middle and high school or vocational schools. Total samples were 162 schools. The sampling technique used the Proportional Stratified Random Sampling method. Data was collected through one survey and analyzed descriptively using a computer system. Results: input indicators of SFS policy: 89.5% of schools in the Yogyakarta city already have a written policy; 88.3% of schools already have promotional media about smoking bans, 66% of schools already have personnel who monitor SFS policy; Process indicators of SFS policy: 88.9% had already received SFP socialization directly. Output indicator of SFP: there are 146 (90.1%) smoke-free schools in Yogyakarta. Barriers to the implementation of SFS policy include smoking behaviour of school residents, lack of ability to conduct assertiveness, environment and school policies have not to support  SFS. Conclusion: The level of school compliance with SFS in the city of Yogyakarta is high. Socialization of SFS needs to be carried out continuously, especially for pickers (parents) and giving a strict sanction for those who violate SFS policy.
How ward rules and limit setting contribute towards restrictive practices and presentations of challenging behaviour in patients on mental health wards
Authors: Doyle Anna , Clark Louise L
Published: March 2020

Background/Aims

Admission to mental health facilities is often confusing and distressing for patients. Ward rules can help to set out expectations and boundaries but can become restrictive practice when they unnecessarily limit patients. The aim of this study is to understand how ward rules and limit setting can impact on restrictive practice and subsequent challenging behaviour in patients.

Methods

Three electronic databases were searched (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsychINFO) using a systematic approach. Seven articles were identified using inclusion/exclusion criteria and findings were synthesised using thematic analysis.

Results

Six themes were generated finding that ward rules and limit setting could contribute towards challenging behaviour. Passive acceptance could also occur with negative patient outcomes.

Conclusions

Negative outcomes occurred when patients did not understand or agree with the rule rationale. It also occurred when patients felt a nurse was being emotionally distant or when rule enforcement was one of the only forms of contact.