bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formalization and Administrative Burden as Obstacles to Employee Recruitment: Consequences for the Public Sector
Authors: Sievert Martin , Vogel Dominik , Feeney Mary K.
Published: July 2020

Job advertisements are a crucial first step in the recruitment process. Public sector organizations overwhelmingly rely on passive recruitment tactics such as written notices, listing formal rules and legal processes, and excessive application procedures. Little is known about the signals these formal rules and procedures send to potential applicants. This research uses a survey experiment to examine the effects of formalization and administrative burden in public sector job advertisements on individuals’ intention to apply for a job and the moderating role of public service motivation, person–organization fit, and person–job fit. The results indicate that formalization leads to lower application intentions. Administrative burdens such as compliance costs do not have a significant effect. These findings emphasize the negative signal of formalization in public sector job advertisements, which has the effect of making these jobs less desirable to potential applicants.
The Effect of β-Blockers for Burn Patients on Clinical Outcomes: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hassoun-Kheir Nasreen , Henig Oryan , Avni Tomer , Leibovici Leonard , Paul Mical
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

To assess the effects and safety of β-blockers in hospitalized patients with burns.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. A broad search was conducted to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing β-blockers to control in hospitalized patients with burns. The primary outcome was 3-month all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were clinical patient-relevant end points. We subgrouped results by children/adults and burn severity. Risk of bias was assessed using the individual domain approach.

Results:

Four RCTs reported in 11 publications were included. Primary outcome of mortality was assessed in children (2 trials, n = 424) and adults (2 trials, n = 148) with severe burns. No significant difference was found between propranolol and control for mortality (risk ratio [RR] = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.48-1.39, 4 trials with broad confidence intervals in adults and children), sepsis (RR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.46-1.43, 2 trials), and survivors’ length of stay (absolute mean difference = 2.53, 95% CI = −2.58–7.63, 3 trials). There was no significant difference in bradycardia (RR = 1.33, 95% CI = 0.77-2.3, 2 trials), hypotension (RR = 1.26, 95% CI = 0.73-2.17, 3 trials), or cardiac arrhythmia (RR: 2.97, 95% CI: 0.12-71.87, 1 trial). The evidence was graded as very low certainty, due to trial’s internal risk of bias, imprecision, and possible selective reporting.

Conclusions:

No sufficient evidence was found to support or refute an advantage for β-blocker use in children or adults after burns. Additional studies are needed to create a consensus and formulate practice guidelines on the optimal β-blocker to use, indications for initiation, and duration of treatment.
Multiresponse optimization of drillability factors and mechanical properties of chitosan-reinforced polypropylene composite
Authors: Yaşar Nafiz , Günay Mustafa , Kılık Erol , Ünal Hüseyin
Published: July 2020

In this study, the mechanical and machinability characteristics of chitosan (Cts)-filled polypropylene (PP) composites produced by injection molding method were analyzed. Uniaxial tensile, impact, hardness, and three-point flexural tests were used to observe the influence of Cts filler on the mechanical behavior of PP. For the machinability analysis of these materials, drilling experiments based on Taguchi’s L27 orthogonal array were performed using different drill qualities and machining parameters. Then, machining conditions are optimized through grey relational analysis methodology for machinability characteristics such as thrust force and surface roughness obtained from drilling tests. The results showed that tensile, flexural strength, and percentage elongation decreased while impact strength increased with adding the Cts filler to PP. Moreover, it was determined that the tensile and flexural modulus of elasticity increased significantly and there was a slight increase in hardness. Thrust forces decreased while surface roughness values increased when the Cts filler ratio and feed rate was increased. The optimal machining conditions for minimizing thrust force and surface roughness was obtained as PP/10 wt% Cts material, uncoated tungsten carbide drill, feed rate of 0.05 mm/rev, and cutting speed of 40 m/min. In this regard, PP composite reinforced by 10 wt% Cts is recommended for industrial applications in terms of both the mechanical and machinability characteristics.
Antecedents and Outcomes of Callings for University Students: An Examination of Mentoring and Insight Experiences
Authors: Ensher Ellen , Ehrhardt Kyle
Published: July 2020

Past research has found that callings have a significant impact on important individual and organizational outcomes, but research on the precursors of callings is limited. In the current study, we contribute to callings research by examining two potentially important calling antecedents for university students: mentoring relationships and insight experiences. Building on extant literature, we also explored how students’ perceptions of callings may relate to school- and career-related outcomes. Using a sample of 536 undergraduate students from one private and two public U.S. universities, we found that high-quality mentoring relationships and insight experiences were positively related to students’ perceptions of callings. We also found support for a relationship between students’ perceptions of callings and their school engagement and absenteeism, along with their career outcome expectations. We discuss the implications of these findings for research and practice.
Additive Gaussian noise model and Kalman filter to enhance controllability of gesture-controlled teleoperated soft actuators
Authors: Gunawardane PDSH , Pathirana APTD , Pallewela REA , Medagedara Nimali T
Published: July 2020

Soft actuators are used in bilateral systems as slave-side actuators. To broaden the applications and usage of these soft actuators in teleoperated applications required high accuracy and control. This article focuses on the improvement and control of the soft actuators operated through the Internet using a glove-based gesture control system. A hand-worn sensor glove (a glove with flex sensors and accelerometers) is used to detect hand gestures (specifically bending angle and force generated in a finger while gripping a spherical object) of an operator. The operator’s finger movements are mimicked in a remote location, through the Internet, in a soft actuator. The bending angles of the human finger have converted into the pressure variations inside the actuator using a linear calibration technique. A vertically mounted actuator and a spherical object are used to demonstrate the gripping action. The main problems that occurred during the controlling of this setup are noise and delays. Electronic noise (line noise and circuit noise), mechanical noise (vibration, nonuniformities in actuator fabrication, wear, and tear), elastic effect (energy absorbed during the state transformation), communication delays (delays occurred due to geography, telecommunication infrastructure, and round trip transmission), and other noises (other environmental effects) degraded the performance. This article considered a Brownian motion model, an additive Gaussian noise model, and a Kalman filter to solve these problems. The experimentations are performed in three different locations (to demonstrate the teleoperation) and the recorded improvement in the performance is approximately 17%.
Ontology-based modeling of part digital twin oriented to assembly
Authors: Bao Qiangwei , Zhao Gang , Yu Yong , Dai Sheng , Wang Wei
Published: July 2020

The digital twin concept, as a widely accepted philosophy for a new generation of digital manufacturing research, plays a significant role in the Industry 4.0 era. As the prerequisite for in-depth application of digital manufacturing in assembly, the collecting, modeling and utilizing approach for historical data of machining process and inspection of part appear to be important to provide data support for integral manufacturing scenarios. However, the modeling approach to part digital twin is not comprehensive due to the structural heterogeneity of data, which hampers the real-time simulation and adjustment in assembly process. Therefore, a method of part digital twin modeling oriented to assembly is proposed in this article. The designing information of a part is obtained from a three-dimensional model with the model-based definition approach, while machining features are pre-defined and identified. Moreover, the assembly constrain relationships in the assembly unit that the part participate in are obtained, on account of which deviation transfer analysis can be accomplished, and key assembly features are filtered to be the carrier of processing and inspection data. An assembly-oriented part digital twin framework is constructed to demonstrate the main components and dataflow in creating a digital twin with information filtering and subsequent management. In addition, a case study is illustrated to show the entire process of part digital twin modeling and proves the practicality and efficiency of the method proposed.
Effects of Rapamycin Combined with Cisplatin on Tumor Necrosis Factor TNF-α in MG-63 Cells
Authors: Han Tian-Yu , Ma Bin , Hu Bing , Xiang Liang-Bi , Liu Xin-Wei
Published: July 2020

Rapamycin (RAPA) and cisplatin (CDDP) are used as clinical drugs in the treatment of various tumors, but there are few studies on the combination of RAPA and CDDP. Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) plays an important role in tumorigenesis and development. This study is to explore the effects of RAPA combined with CDDP on the expression of TNF-α in osteosarcoma MG-63 cells. MG-63 cells were routinely cultured and divided into a control group, a RAPA group (20 μM), a CDDP group (20 μM), and a RAPA + CDDP group (20 μM + 20 μM). The four groups were treated with drugs for 24 and 48 h, respectively. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot (WB), and immunocytochemistry (ICC) were adopted to detect the expression of TNF-α gene and protein. The results of PCR showed that both the separate drug use and drug combination could significantly lower the relative expression quantity of TNF-α gene (* P < 0.5), but the combination was more effective (* P < 0.5); the expression quantity of TNF-α gene in the RAPA + CDDP group at 48 h was much lower than that at 24 h (*** P < 0.001). The results of WB showed that both the separate drug use and drug combination could significantly lower the relative expression quantity of TNF-α protein, and the combination was more effective than separate drug use (* P < 0.05) and more effective at 48 h (*** P < 0.001); the expression quantity of TNF-α protein in the same group at 48 h was much lower than that at 24 h (* P < 0.05). The results of ICC showed that both the separate drug use and drug combination could significantly lower the relative expression quantity of TNF-α protein, and the combination was more effective than separate drug use (** P < 0.01) and more effective at 48 h (*** P < 0.001); the expression quantity of TNF-α protein in the same group at 48 h was much lower than that at 24 h (** P < 0.01). RAPA combined with CDDP can significantly reduce the expression of TNF-α in MG-63 cells, which is time dependent.
Spatial Exclusion, Due Process, and the Civilianization of Punishment in Australia’s Night-time Economy: A Mapping Review of Patron Banning Policy, Practice, and Oversight
Authors: Farmer Clare , Clifford Robyn
Published: July 2020

Jurisdictions across Australia have implemented a range of policies to tackle problems associated with alcohol consumption in and around licensed premises. One key measure, patron banning, has proliferated in various forms. Banning applies spatial restrictions and locational prohibitions upon recipients. It is typically predicated upon a presumed deterrent effect for both recipients and the wider community to reduce alcohol-related disorderly behaviors and to improve public safety. This article documents a mapping review of patron banning mechanisms across Australian jurisdictions, using an analysis of legislation, operational practices, policy documentation and reviews, published data, and research literature. The mapping review then frames an analysis of banning policy. Key conceptual and operational issues are discussed with respect to deterrence and community protection; displacement, diffusion, and isolation of effects; enforcement; due process and legitimacy; and the steady civilianization of punishment. Given the wide range and reach of banning mechanisms, there is an urgent need for specific empirical examination of the use and effect of spatial exclusion and prohibition across Australia’s nighttime economy to inform policy development and refinement, to strengthen the assurance of due process, and to optimize the potential beneficial effects of patron banning.
Safety of Intravenous Push Lacosamide Compared With Intravenous Piggyback at a Tertiary Academic Medical Center
Authors: McLaughlin Kevin , Carabetta Shannon , Hunt Nicholas , Schuler Brian R. , Ting Clara , Tran Lena K. , Szumita Paul M. , Anger Kevin E.
Published: July 2020

Background:

There are limited data regarding the incidence of adverse events associated with administering lacosamide by intravenous push (IVP) compared with IV piggyback (IVPB).

Objective:

The objective of this analysis was to compare the safety profile, including cardiovascular effects, sedative effects, and IV site reactions of IVP and IVPB lacosamide administration.

Methods:

A retrospective pre/post cohort analysis comparing patients who received lacosamide via IVP and IVPB was conducted. Safety end points included hypotension, bradycardia, medication-related sedation, and IV site reactions. The relationship between patient characteristics and the incidence of safety end points was analyzed using the Student t-test and χ2 test as appropriate.

Results:

Bradycardia occurred after 0.19% of IVP administrations and 1.09% of IVPB administrations assessed ( P = 0.07). Hypotension was observed in 3.16% of IVP administrations compared to 1.59% in the IVPB cohort ( P = 0.12). Post lacosamide-related sedation was noted in 11.32% and 11.68% of the IVP and IVPB cohorts, respectively ( P = 0.87). Infusion site reaction rates of 1.80% and 0.84% were documented in the IVP and IVPB cohorts, respectively ( P = 0.33). Of note, only 1 adverse event required clinical intervention. One 200-mg dose in the IVP cohort required a fluid bolus postadministration.

Conclusion and Relevance:

IVP lacosamide was associated with a similar incidence of cardiovascular, neurological, and infusion site–related adverse events compared with IVPB, in which nearly every adverse event was deemed clinically insignificant. Lacosamide administered via IVP may be considered a safe alternative method of administration in the acute care setting.
Axial monotonic and cyclic compressive behavior of square GFRP tube–confined steel-reinforced concrete composite columns
Authors: Pei Weichang , Wang Daiyu , Wang Xuan , Wang Zhenyu
Published: July 2020

Fiber-reinforced polymer tube–confined steel fiber–reinforced concrete column is a novel composite column proposed recently, which consists of a traditional steel-reinforced concrete column and an external glass fiber–reinforced plastic tube for lateral confinement. In order to investigate the axial compression behavior of steel fiber–reinforced concrete columns, a total of 16 square specimens were fabricated and tested under axial monotonic and cyclic compressive loading. Three different configurations of inner shaped steels, including cross-shaped, box-shaped with wielding, and box-shaped without wielding were considered. Two thicknesses of glass fiber–reinforced concrete tubes were also considered as the main experimental parameters. On the basis of test results, a thorough analysis of the failure process based on strain analysis was discussed. The test results showed that steel fiber–reinforced concrete columns exhibited higher ductility and load capacity compared with fiber-reinforced plastic–confined plain concrete columns. Two quantitative indexes were proposed to measure the confinement of steel fiber–reinforced concretes. The axial cyclic mechanical behaviors were discussed through comparative analysis with monotonic behaviors. The remnant strains and modulus of the cyclic behaviors were also discussed.
Effectiveness of passive ventilation on radon indoor level in Puglia Region according to European Directive 2013/59/EURATOM
Authors: D'Avino Vittoria , Pugliese Mariagabriella , Verde Giuseppe La
Published: July 2020

The effectiveness of the increase in passive ventilation was studied as remedial action for high concentrations of indoor radon gas activity. The rationale has been to apply the provisions of Directive 2013/59/EURATOM, partially implemented by a regional law of Puglia Region (Southern Italy). Residential buildings were selected based on characteristics common to those of commercial premises, which are the recipients of legislative obligations. The final goal of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of carrying out the same remediation activity for both types of buildings. From a previous survey in Puglia in 2013–2014, 18 houses were selected and passive ventilation strategy was applied in order to evaluate its effect on the radon activity concentration. A specially designed protocol defined frequency and time of windows operation. The average value of the annual measurement revealed a significant reduction of the internal radon activity concentration: mitigation ranged from 21 ± 5% to 58 ± 2% with an average value of 33 ± 3%. The results of the study showed that passive ventilation is an effective method of mitigation of the internal radon concentration if correctly designed according to the local characteristics of the buildings and habits of the occupants.
From reflection to diffraction: exploring the use of vignettes within post-humanist and multi-species research
Authors: Jenkins Nicholas , Ritchie Louise , Quinn Sam
Published: July 2020

This article explores the use of vignettes in qualitative research from a post-humanist and multi-species perspective. Drawing on methodological principles espoused by Karen Barad and Donna Haraway, as well as empirical data from the Dementia Dog pilot project in Scotland, UK, we explore the use of vignettes as a technique for understanding human–dog relations in dementia. In so doing, we outline an approach to using vignettes that is guided by principles of diffraction, which is contrasted with humanist principles of interpretivism, reflection and representation. Moving away from humanist methodology, we argue, calls for new approaches to evaluating the quality of vignettes. This involves disrupting conventional approaches, within which vignettes are defined by their purpose and evaluated according to fixed criteria (e.g. validity, authenticity and trustworthiness). In their place, we argue for an approach to evaluating vignettes that is rooted in performativity and guided by the question: What can a vignette do?
Comparing double jersey knitted fabrics made of Tencel and modal yarns, spun by different spinning methods
Authors: Pavlović Željka , Vrljičak Zlatko
Published: July 2020

A double-bed circular knitting machine with a gauge of E17 and a needle bar diameter of 200 mm (8 in) was used to make three groups of plain weft knitted Tencel fabrics and three groups of modal knitted fabrics. The yarns were spun using three spinning methods: ring, rotor, and air-jet system. Their count was 20 tex. All the knitted fabric samples were manufactured under the same conditions. One-half of each knitted fabric sample remained unfinished, while the other half was finished. Structure parameters of all finished and unfinished knitted fabrics were analyzed, and the most significant parameters were compared. Tensile properties of the knitted fabrics in wale and course directions were measured. The difference in the elasticity of the knitted fabric was analyzed in particular, and the portions of knitted fabric stretch are given. The basic conclusion is that using equal yarn fineness, but different raw material composition and structure, the produced knitted fabrics had substantially different fabric masses per unit area. The raw material composition and construction of the yarn, that is, the yarn manufacturing process and the spinning process produce yarns of different structures and properties that are manifested in the structure and properties of the knitted fabric. Thus, the finishing process must be specific for each raw material composition and yarn structure.
The effect of non-communicative eye movements on joint attention
Authors: Caruana Nathan , Alhasan Ayeh , Wagner Kirilee , Kaplan David M , Woolgar Alexandra , McArthur Genevieve
Published: July 2020

Eye movements provide important signals for joint attention. However, those eye movements that indicate bids for joint attention often occur among non-communicative eye movements. This study investigated the influence of these non-communicative eye movements on subsequent joint attention responsivity. Participants played an interactive game with an avatar which required both players to search for a visual target on a screen. The player who discovered the target used their eyes to initiate joint attention. We compared participants’ saccadic reaction times (SRTs) to the avatar’s joint attention bids when they were preceded by non-communicative eye movements that predicted the location of the target (Predictive Search), did not predict the location of the target (Random Search), and when there were no non-communicative eye gaze movements prior to joint attention (No Search). We also included a control condition in which participants completed the same task, but responded to a dynamic arrow stimulus instead of the avatar’s eye movements. For both eye and arrow conditions, participants had slower SRTs in Random Search trials than No Search and Predictive Search trials. However, these effects were smaller for eyes than for arrows. These data suggest that joint attention responsivity for eyes is relatively stable to the presence and predictability of spatial information conveyed by non-communicative gaze. Contrastingly, random sequences of dynamic arrows had a much more disruptive impact on subsequent responsivity compared with predictive arrow sequences. This may reflect specialised social mechanisms and expertise for selectively responding to communicative eye gaze cues during dynamic interactions, which is likely facilitated by the integration of ostensive eye contact cues.
Evolution of colorectal cancer screening research in the past 25 years: text-mining analysis of publication trends and topics
Authors: Soffer Shelly , Klang Eyal , Tau Noam , Zemet Roni , Ben-Horin Shomron , Barash Yiftach , Kopylov Uri
Published: July 2020

Background:

There is a growing research effort in the field of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, with varying topics and shifting research foci over the years. The aim of this study was to apply a text-mining technique to evaluate trends in publications for CRC screening in the last 25 years.

Methods:

We retrieved MEDLINE/PubMed datasets from 1992–2017. We selected keywords from Medical Subject Headings to include CRC screening related publications. For each article, we extracted the following data: title, journal, publication date, abstract, article type, citation frequency, and country of origin. Articles were categorized into topics using word combination and title match technique.

Results:

In 1992–2017, 14,119 CRC screening related papers were published. The US had the highest number of papers ( n = 4824) and China had the highest growth rate in publications. Overall, the most researched topic was “screening and surveillance programs” (38%). The topics of “quality assurance” ( r = 0.87) and “racial disparities” ( r = 0.91) have gained increased research attention over the years. In total, 11 of the 20 most cited articles in the field were published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

Conclusion:

The number of publications devoted to CRC screening has grown, with high-quality research reaching top-tier journals. A surge in the number of publications has been increasing in countries previously less involved in research in the field. Screening programs remain the most researched topic, and quality indicators is attracting a growing attention. Text-mining analysis of CRC screening research contributes to an understanding of publication trends and topics and can point to the need for potential future investigations.
Pharmacological treatment of hyperactive delirium in people with COVID-19: rethinking conventional approaches
Authors: Ostuzzi Giovanni , Gastaldon Chiara , Papola Davide , Fagiolini Andrea , Dursun Serdar , Taylor David , Correll Christoph U. , Barbui Corrado
Published: July 2020

People with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) might have several risk factors for delirium, which could in turn notably worsen the prognosis. Although pharmacological approaches for delirium are debated, haloperidol and other first-generation antipsychotics are frequently employed, particularly for hyperactive presentations. However, the use of these conventional treatments could be limited in people with COVID-19, due to the underlying medical condition and the risk of drug–drug interactions with anti-COVID treatments. On these premises, we carried out a rapid review in order to identify possible alternative medications for this particular population. By searching PubMed and the Cochrane Library, we selected the most updated systematic reviews of randomised trials on the pharmacological treatment of delirium in both intensive and non-intensive care settings, and on the treatment of agitation related to acute psychosis or dementia. We identified medications performing significantly better than placebo or haloperidol as the reference treatment in each population considered, and assessed the strength of association according to validated criteria. In addition, we collected data on other relevant clinical elements (i.e. common adverse events, drug-drug interactions with COVID-19 medications, daily doses) and regulatory elements (i.e. therapeutic indications, contra-indications, available formulations). A total of 10 systematic reviews were included. Overall, relatively few medications showed benefits over placebo in the four selected populations. As compared with placebo, significant benefits emerged for quetiapine and dexmedetomidine in intensive care unit (ICU) settings, and for none of the medications in non-ICU settings. Considering also data from indirect populations (agitation related to acute psychosis or dementia), aripiprazole, quetiapine and risperidone showed a potential benefit in two or three different populations. Despite limitations related to the rapid review methodology and the use of data from indirect populations, the evidence retrieved can pragmatically support treatment choices of frontline practitioners involved in the COVID-19 outbreak, and indicate future research directions for the treatment of delirium in particularly vulnerable populations.
Effects of macitentan and tadalafil monotherapy or their combination on the right ventricle and plasma metabolites in pulmonary hypertensive rats
Authors: Mamazhakypov Argen , Weiß Astrid , Zukunft Sven , Sydykov Akylbek , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Wilhelm Jochen , Vroom Christina , Petrovic Aleksandar , Kosanovic Djuro , Weissmann Norbert , Seeger Werner , Fleming Ingrid , Iglarz Marc , Grimminger Friedrich , Ghofrani Hossein A. , Pullamsetti Soni S. , Schermuly Ralph T.
Published: July 2020

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a severe respiratory disease characterized by pulmonary artery remodeling. RV dysfunction and dysregulated circulating metabolomics are associated with adverse outcomes in pulmonary arterial hypertension. We investigated effects of tadalafil and macitentan alone or in combination on the RV and plasma metabolomics in SuHx and PAB models. For SuHx model, rats were injected with SU5416 and exposed to hypoxia for three weeks and then were returned to normoxia and treated with either tadalafil (10 mg/kg in chow) or macitentan (10 mg/kg in chow) or their combination (both 10 mg/kg in chow) for two weeks. For PAB model, rats were subjected to either sham or PAB surgery for three weeks and treated with above‐mentioned drugs from week 1 to week 3. Following terminal echocardiographic and hemodynamic measurements, tissue samples were collected for metabolomic, histological and gene expression analysis. Both SuHx and PAB rats developed RV remodeling/dysfunction with severe and mild plasma metabolomic alterations, respectively. In SuHx rats, tadalafil and macitentan alone or in combination improved RV remodeling/function with the effects of macitentan and combination therapy being superior to tadalafil. All therapies similarly attenuated SuHx‐induced changes in plasma metabolomics. In PAB rats, only macitentan improved RV remodeling/function, while only tadalafil attenuated PAB‐induced changes in plasma metabolomics.
Polypropylene Mesh Complications in the Sublay Position After Abdominally Based Breast Reconstruction: Les complications des treillis de polypropylène en sous-couche après une reconstruction mammaire par voie abdominale
Authors: Kraft Casey T. , Molina Bianca J. , Skoracki Roman J.
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

Abdominal wall morbidity after microsurgical breast reconstruction is an important consideration for patients and surgeons. Previous studies are limited by multiple mesh locations or types. In this study, we evaluate specifically subfascial polypropylene mesh placement to determine a more definitive complication rate and basis for objective comparison.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed for patients undergoing microsurgical breast reconstruction at our institution by 3 surgeons from 2015 to 2018. All patients with sublay placement of polypropylene mesh were included. Patient demographics, medical comorbidities, type of reconstruction, and postoperative abdominal wall complications were recorded.

Results:

A total of 114 flaps were performed on 81 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 48 were deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEP) flaps (42%), 43 were MS-2 TRAM flaps (37.8%), 20 were muscle sparing (MS-1) transverse rectus abdominus muscle (TRAM) flaps (17.5%), and 3 were free TRAM flaps (2.6%). Average follow-up was 392 days (range: 29-1191). Average body mass index was 30.7. No patients developed hernias. Two patients (2.5%) complained of post-operative bulges, neither of which required operative treatment. Two patients experienced superficial abdominal wall infection, one of which required admission and intravenous antibiotics. Ten patients (12.3%) had abdominal incision dehiscence, 3 of which required operative intervention. There were no cases of mesh exposure, contamination, or removal.

Conclusion:

Polypropylene mesh is safe and effective, with subfascial placement resulting in low morbidity and low rates of bulge/hernia formation after microsurgical breast reconstruction. Consideration should be given to using polypropylene mesh for fascial repairs after microsurgical breast reconstruction, particularly in high-risk populations.
China’s Strategic Partnership with Kuwait: New Opportunities for the Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Chaziza Mordechai
Published: July 2020

In July 2018, the Kuwaiti Emir made a state visit of great significance to China, as both countries agreed to establish a strategic partnership creating new opportunities for Kuwait, which aspires to diversify its economy and seek investment opportunities. This study investigates various aspects behind the establishment of this partnership and examines the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Kuwait Vision 2035 (KV2035) to understand the extent of economic engagement and relationship between the two nations. However, despite the considerable increase in Chinese trade and investments in Kuwait, some significant internal obstacles and external challenges remain to the successful integration of KV2035 with the BRI.
Trimester-Specific Associations of Prenatal Lead Exposure With Infant Cord Blood DNA Methylation at Birth
Authors: Rygiel Christine A , Dolinoy Dana C , Perng Wei , Jones Tamara R , Solano Maritsa , Hu Howard , Téllez-Rojo Martha M , Peterson Karen E , Goodrich Jaclyn M
Published: July 2020

Gestational exposure to lead (Pb) adversely impacts offspring health through multiple mechanisms, one of which is the alteration of the epigenome including DNA methylation. This study aims to identify differentially methylated CpG sites associated with trimester-specific maternal Pb exposure in umbilical cord blood (UCB) leukocytes. Eighty-nine mother-child dyads from the Early Life Exposure in Mexico to Environmental Toxicants (ELEMENT) longitudinal birth cohorts with available UCB samples were selected for DNA methylation analysis via the Infinium Methylation EPIC BeadChip, which quantifies methylation at >850 000 CpG sites. Maternal blood lead levels (BLLs) during each trimester (T1: 6.56 ± 5.35 µg/dL; T2: 5.93 ± 5.00 µg/dL; T3: 6.09 ± 4.51 µg/dL), bone Pb (patella: 11.8 ± 9.25 µg/g; tibia: 11.8 ± 6.73 µg/g), a measure of cumulative Pb exposure, and UCB Pb (4.86 ± 3.74 µg/dL) were measured. After quality control screening, data from 786 024 CpG sites were used to identify differentially methylated positions (DMPs) and differentially methylated regions (DMRs) by Pb biomarkers using separate linear regression models, controlling for sex and estimated UCB cell-type proportions. We identified 3 DMPs associated with maternal T1 BLL, 2 with T3 BLL, and 2 with tibia bone Pb. We identified one DMR within PDGFRL associated with T1 BLL, one located at chr6:30095136-30095295 with T3 BLL, and one within TRHR with tibia bone Pb (adjusted P-value < .05). Pathway analysis identified 15 overrepresented gene pathways for differential methylation that overlapped among all 3 trimesters with the largest overlap between T1 and T2 (adjusted P-value < .05). Pathways of interest include nodal signaling pathway and neurological system processes. These data provide evidence for differential methylation by prenatal Pb exposure that may be trimester-specific.
Gint4.T-Modified DNA Tetrahedrons Loaded with Doxorubicin Inhibits Glioma Cell Proliferation by Targeting PDGFRβ
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhou Yanghao , Cheng Si , Lou Jinhe , Zhang Xiang , He Qiuguang , Huang Ning , Cheng Yuan
Published: July 2020

Glioma is one of the deadliest intrinsic brain tumours due to its invasive growth. The effect of glioma treatment is poor because of the presence of the blood-brain barrier and blood tumour barrier and insufficient drug targeting. DNA tetrahedrons (TDN) show great potential for drug delivery and may be a novel therapeutic strategy for glioma. In this study, we used TDN to deliver doxorubicin (DOX) for the glioma therapy. Gint4.T, an aptamer that could recognize platelet-derived growth factor receptor β on tumour cell, was used to modify TDN (Apt-TDN) for targeted drug delivery. The TDN were self-assembled by one-step synthesis, which showed small size (10 nm) and negative charge. Fetal bovine serum test showed its stability as a drug delivery vehicle. Apt-TDN could be effectively taken up by U87MG cells. Compared with DOX and DOX@TDN (TDN loaded with DOX), the DOX@Apt-TDN (Gint4.T-modified TDN loaded with DOX) showed more early apoptosis rate, higher cell cycle arrest, and greater cytotoxicity towards U87MG cells. In conclusion, our findings indicated that DOX@Apt-TDN provides a novel therapy with promising clinical application for gliomas patients.
Efficacy and safety of silodosin, vardenafil versus silodosin in combination with vardenafil as a medical expulsive therapy for distal ureteric stones: a prospective randomized double-blind study
Authors: Samir Mohamed , Elawady Hossam , Hasan Mohamed
Published: July 2020

Background

Urolithiasis is considered one of the most common diseases in urological practice. Its prevalence is about 1% to 15% with 30 years old as the peak age of incidence. Medical expulsive therapy (MET) has been used as a conservative treatment for patients with ureteral stones. Nitrergic fibers have been identified to have a relaxant effect on the distal ureteral smooth musculature. The objective of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combination of silodosin and vardenafil as a medical expulsive therapy in comparison with each drug alone.

Methods

One hundred and two male patients with uncomplicated distal ureteric stone 6–10 mm were enrolled in the study. The patients were randomly divided into 3 equal groups, and each one consists of 34 patients. Group I received silodosin 8 mg once daily, group II vardenafil 5 mg once daily and group III combination of silodosin 8 mg and vardenafil 5 mg once daily. The treatment was given for all the patients until stone expulsion or a maximum of 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was the stone expulsion rate, and the secondary endpoints were time to stone expulsion, number of hospital visits for pain, amount of analgesic required and side effects associated with MET.

Results

Our study showed that the stone expulsion rate was higher in combination = 90.0% than silodosin = 76.7% and vardenafil groups = 60.0% (P = 0.025), the time to stone expulsion was significantly shorter in combination = 11.23 ± 3.14 than silodosin = 12.50 ± 1.66 and vardenafil groups 14.67 ± 1.24 days (P < 0.01), the number of hospital visits for pain was statistically significant between the three groups (silodosin 1.35 ± 0.9, vardenafil 1.65 ± 1.09 and combination groups 1.02 ± 0.80) (P = 0.038) and lesser amount of analgesic required in combination 313.6 ± 2.85.5 than silodosin 613.44 ± 483.62 and vardenafil groups 716.97 ± 685.3 (P = 0.008). There was no significant difference among the studied groups as regards the drugs side effects except for retrograde ejaculation (silodosin and combination = 86.7% vs vardenafil groups = 0.0%) (P < 0.05) and increased erection (combination = 26.7%, vardenafil = 23.3% and silodosin groups = 0%) (P = 0.010).

Conclusion

The prescription of vardenafil in combination with silodosin is safe and more effective than silodosin or vardenafil alone as a MET.
Total RNA and genomic DNA of Lactobacillus gasseri OLL2809 induce interleukin-12 production in the mouse macrophage cell line J774.1 via toll-like receptors 7 and 9
Authors: Onishi Kazumasa , Mochizuki Junko , Sato Asako , Goto Ayako , Sashihara Toshihiro
Published: July 2020

Background

Lactobacillus gasseriOLL2809 can highly induce interleukin (IL)-12 production in immune cells. Even though beneficial properties of this strain for both humans and animals have been reported, the mechanism by which the bacteria induces the production of IL-12 in immune cells remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of induction of IL-12 using a mouse macrophage cell line J774.1.

Results

Inhibition of phagocytosis ofL. gasseriOLL2809, and myeloid differentiation factor 88 and Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 7 and 9 signalling attenuated IL-12 production in J774.1 cells. Total RNA and genomic DNA ofL. gasseriOLL2809, when transferred to the J774.1 cells, also induced IL-12 production. The difference in the IL-12-inducing activity ofLactobacilliis attributed to the susceptibility to phagocytosis, but not to a difference in the total RNA and genomic DNA of each strain.

Conclusion

We concluded that total RNA and genomic DNA of phagocytosedL. gasseriOLL2809 induce IL-12 production in J774.1 cell via TLRs 7 and 9, and the high IL-12-inducing activity ofL. gasseriOLL2809 is due to its greater susceptibility to phagocytosis.
Long non-coding RNA LINC01426 facilitates glioblastoma progression via sponging miR-345-3p and upregulation of VAMP8
Authors: Cao Jingwei , Tang Zhanbin , Su Zhiqiang
Published: July 2020

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been extensively reported play important roles in regulating the development and progression of cancers, including Glioblastoma (GBM). LINC01426 is a novel lncRNA that has been identified as an oncogenic gene in GBM. Herein, we attempted to elucidate the detailed functions and underlying mechanisms of LINC01426 in GBM.

Methods

LINC01426 expression in GBM cell lines and tissues were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assays, colony formation assays, subcutaneous tumor formation assays were utilized to investigate the biological functions of LINC01426 in GBM. Dual-luciferase reporter assays, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and bioinformatic analysis were performed to determine the underlying mechanisms.

Results

LINC01426 is up-regulated in malignant GBM tissues and cell lines and it is capable to promote GBM cell proliferation and growth. Mechanistically, LINC01426 serves as a molecular sponge to sequester the miR345-3p and thus enhancing the level of VAMP8, an oncogenic coding gene, to promote GBM progression.

Conclusions

Our results revealed the detailed mechanisms of LINC01426 facilitated cell proliferation and growth in GBM and report the clinical value of LINC01426 for GBM prognosis and treatment.
Establishment of a novel cell cycle-related prognostic signature predicting prognosis in patients with endometrial cancer
Authors: Liu Jinhui , Mei Jie , Li Siyue , Wu Zhipeng , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2020

Background

Endometrial cancer (EnCa) ranks fourth in menace within women’s malignant tumors. Large numbers of studies have proven that functional genes can change the process of tumors by regulating the cell cycle, thereby achieving the goal of targeted therapy.

Methods

The transcriptional data of EnCa samples obtained from the TCGA database was analyzed. A battery of bioinformatics strategies, which included GSEA, Cox and LASSO regression analysis, establishment of a prognostic signature and a nomogram for overall survival (OS) assessment. The GEPIA and CPTAC analysis were applied to validate the dysregulation of hub genes. For mutation analysis, the “maftools” package was used.

Results

GSEA identified that cell cycle was the most associated pathway to EnCa. Five cell cycle-related genes including HMGB3, EZH2, NOTCH2, UCK2 and ODF2 were identified as prognosis-related genes to build a prognostic signature. Based on this model, the EnCa patients could be divided into low- and high-risk groups, and patients with high-risk score exhibited poorer OS. Time-dependent ROC and Cox regression analyses revealed that the 5-gene signature could predict EnCa prognosis exactly and independently. GEPIA and CPTAC validation exhibited that these genes were notably dysregulated between EnCa and normal tissues. Lower mutation rates of PTEN, TTN, ARID1A, and etc. were found in samples with high-risk score compared with that with low-risk score. GSEA analysis suggested that the samples of the low- and high-risk groups were concentrated on various pathways, which accounted for the different oncogenic mechanisms in patients in two groups.

Conclusion

The current research construct a 5-gene signature to evaluate prognosis of EnCa patients, which may innovative clinical application of prognostic assessment.
Establishment of the prognostic index of lung squamous cell carcinoma based on immunogenomic landscape analysis
Authors: Zhang Jianguo , Zhang Jianzhong , Yuan Cheng , Luo Yuan , Li Yangyi , Dai Panpan , Sun Wenjie , Zhang Nannan , Ren Jiangbo , Zhang Junhong , Gong Yan , Xie Conghua
Published: July 2020

Background

The incidence of lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) increased substantially in recent years. Systematical investigation of the immunogenomic pattern is critical to improve the prognosis of LUSC.

Methods

Based on the TCGA and GEO dataset, we integrated the immune-related genes (IRGs) expression profile and the overall survival (OS) of 502 patients with LUSC. The survival-related and differentially-expressed IRGs in LUSC patients were evaluated by univariate cox regression and LASSO regression analysis. By applying multivariate cox analysis, a new prognostic indicator based on IRGs was established. We also used CIBERSORT algorithms and TIMER database to analyze immune infiltration of LUSC. Both gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and principal component analysis (PCA) was carried out for functional annotation. With the assist of computational biology, we also investigated the latent properties and molecular mechanisms of these LUSC-specific IRGs. We analyzed the correlation between immune checkpoints and risk score.

Results

A novel prognostic model was established based on 11 IRGS, including CXCL5, MMP12, PLAU, ELN, JUN, RNASE7, JAG1, SPP1, AGTR2, FGFR4, and TNFRSF18. This model performed well in the prognostic forecast, and was also related to the infiltration of immune cells. Besides, the high-risk groups and the low-risk groups exhibited distinct layout modes in PCA analysis, and GSEA results showed that different immune status among these groups.

Conclusions

In summary, our researches screened out clinically significant IRGs and proved the significance of IRG-based, individualized immune-related biomarkers in monitoring, prognosis, and discern of LUSC.
Evaluation of the performance of algorithms mapping EORTC QLQ-C30 onto the EQ-5D index in a metastatic colorectal cancer cost-effectiveness model
Authors: Franken Mira D. , de Hond Anne , Degeling Koen , Punt Cornelis J. A. , Koopman Miriam , Uyl-de Groot Carin A. , Versteegh Matthijs M. , van Oijen Martijn G. H.
Published: July 2020

Background

Cost-effectiveness models require quality of life utilities calculated from generic preference-based questionnaires, such as EQ-5D. We evaluated the performance of available algorithms for QLQ-C30 conversion into EQ-5D-3L based utilities in a metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patient population and subsequently developed a mCRC specific algorithm. Influence of mapping on cost-effectiveness was evaluated.

Methods

Three available algorithms were compared with observed utilities from the CAIRO3 study. Six models were developed using 5-fold cross-validation: predicting EQ-5D-3L tariffs from QLQ-C30 functional scale scores, continuous QLQ-C30 scores or dummy levels with a random effects model (RE), a most likely probability method on EQ-5D-3L functional scale scores, a beta regression model on QLQ-C30 functional scale scores and a separate equations subgroup approach on QLQ-C30 functional scale scores. Performance was assessed, and algorithms were tested on incomplete QLQ-C30 questionnaires. Influence of utility mapping on incremental cost/QALY gained (ICER) was evaluated in an existing Dutch mCRC cost-effectiveness model.

Results

The available algorithms yielded mean utilities of 1: 0.87 ± sd:0.14,2: 0.81 ± 0.15 (both Dutch tariff) and 3: 0.81 ± sd:0.19. Algorithm 1 and 3 were significantly different from the mean observed utility (0.83 ± 0.17 with Dutch tariff, 0.80 ± 0.20 with U.K. tariff). All new models yielded predicted utilities drawing close to observed utilities; differences were not statistically significant. The existing algorithms resulted in an ICER difference of €10,140 less and €1765 more compared to the observed EQ-5D-3L based ICER (€168,048). The preferred newly developed algorithm was €5094 higher than the observed EQ-5D-3L based ICER. Disparity was explained by minimal diffences in incremental QALYs between models.

Conclusion

Available mapping algorithms sufficiently accurately predict utilities. With the commonly used statistical methods, we did not succeed in developping an improved mapping algorithm. Importantly, cost-effectiveness outcomes in this study were comparable to the original model outcomes between different mapping algorithms. Therefore, mapping can be an adequate solution for cost-effectiveness studies using either a previously designed and validated algorithm or an algorithm developed in this study.