bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ontogenesis of the tear drainage system requires Prickle 1-controlled polarized basement membrane (BM) deposition
Authors: Guo Dianlei , Ru Jiali , Mao Fuxiang , Wu Kaili , Ouyang Hong , Liu Yizhi , Liu Chunqiao
Published: April 2020

In terrestrial animals, lacrimal drainage apparatus evolved to serve as conduits for tear flow. Little is known about the ontogenesis of this system. Here, we investigated tear duct origin, developmental course, genetic and cellular determinants in mouse. We report that primordial tear duct (PTD) originates from junction epithelium of the joining maxillary and lateral nasal processes, which reshapes into future tear duct branches. We identified Prickle 1 as a hallmark for tear duct outgrowth, ablation of which stalled duct elongation. In particular, the disruption of basement membrane (BM) with cytoplasmic accumulation of laminin suggests aberrant protein trafficking. Mutant embryoid bodies (EBs) derived from iPSCs recapitulate BM phenotype of the PTD exhibiting defective visceral endoderm (VE), which normally expresses high level of Prickle 1. Furthermore, replenishing mutant VE with Prickle 1 completely rescued BM but not cell polarity. Taken together, our results reveal a distinct role of Prickle 1 in regulating polarized BM secretion and deposition in precedently uncharacterized tear drainage system and VE, which is independent of apicobasal polarity establishment.
Effects of the selective dopamine D3receptor antagonist PG01037 on morphine-induced hyperactivity and antinociception in mice
Authors: Botz-Zapp Christian A. , Foster Stephanie L. , Pulley Desta M. , Hempel Briana , Bi Guo-Hua , Xi Zheng-Xiong , Newman Amy Hauck , Weinshenker David , Manvich Daniel F.
Published: April 2020

Recent preclinical studies have reported that pretreatment with the novel and highly-selective dopamine D3receptor (D3R) antagonists R-VK4-40 or VK4-116 attenuates the abuse-related behavioral effects of oxycodone while enhancing its analgesic properties. However, whether these observed effects are generalizable to the broad class of D3R antagonists and/or extend to opioids other than oxycodone has not been extensively explored. The present study sought to assess the impact of pretreatment with another selective D3R antagonist, PG01037, on several behavioral effects of morphine in mice. C57Bl/6J mice were pretreated with PG01037 (0 – 10 mg/kg) and tested for 1) hyperlocomotion induced by acute morphine (5.6 – 56 mg/kg), 2) locomotor sensitization following repeated morphine (56 mg/kg), 3) antinociception following acute morphine (18 mg/kg), and 4) catalepsy following administration of PG01037 alone or in combination with morphine (56 mg/kg). PG01037 dose-dependently attenuated morphine-induced hyperlocomotion and morphine-induced antinociception at doses that did not alter basal locomotion or nociception alone, but did not prevent the induction of locomotor sensitization following repeated morphine administration. Moreover, PG01037 did not induce catalepsy either alone or in combination with morphine. These results suggest that attenuation of acute opioid-induced hyperlocomotion may be a behavioral effect shared among D3R-selective antagonists, thus supporting continued investigations into their use as potential treatments for opioid use disorder. However, PG01037 is unlike newer, highly-selective D3R antagonists in its capacity to reduce opioid-induced antinociception, indicating that modulation of opioid analgesia may vary across different D3R antagonists.
A meta-analysis of transformational leadership in hospitality research
Authors: Gui Chenglin , Luo Anqi , Zhang Pengcheng , Deng Aimin
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Though the effect of transformational leadership (TFL) on followers has been largely examined in hospitality, the findings are rather inconsistent. This paper aims to provide a quantitative review for the relationship between TFL and follower outcomes in hospitality and a detailed analysis of the moderating variables (cultural differences, measurement instrument, rating sources and time lag).

Design/methodology/approach

To explore the effect sizes of TFL on followers, this study conducted a quantitative meta-analysis based on 62 primary studies, including 66 independent samples (N= 23,037). The outcomes of TFL were categorized into subordinates’ attitudinal outcomes, relational perceptions and behavioral outcomes.

Findings

The results indicate that TFL has the strongest impact on relational perceptions, followed by subordinates’ attitudinal and behavioral outcomes. The results also show that cultural differences, rating sources and time lag partially moderate the relationships between TFL and follower outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

TFL generally has a high level of validity for explaining attitudinal, behavioral and relational perception outcomes of followers in the field of hospitality. Given that, there have been a large number of studies investigating TFL with follower attitudinal and behavioral outcomes, it might not be necessary to continue applying identical frameworks to investigate the effect of TFL. Instead, future research on TFL is expected to explore the relationship between TFL and followers’ relational perceptions and consider cultural and methodological factors.

Originality/value

To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis to clear theoretical links between TFL and its outcomes in the hospitality context. This study further investigates several moderators that can influence the effects of TFL and helps better understand the influence of TFL in the area of hospitality. The study also provides future research directions for leadership research in the hospitality context.
WER IST HIER DER FEIND? VERBÜNDETE UND GEGNER IN ALEXANDER SOLSCHENIZYNS DARSTELLUNG VON DEUTSCHLAND
Authors: Kriza Elisa
Published: April 2020

The prominent Russian writer and Nobel Prize Laureate Alexander Solzhenitsyn (1918–2008) was known mainly for his work on the Soviet prison camps. In many of his fictional and non‐fiction works, however, Solzhenitsyn dealt with the subject of Germany. This article analyses Solzhenitsyn's depiction of Germany in the works August 1914, The Gulag Archipelago, and shorter non‐fiction texts. The aim is to assess Solzhenitsyn's interpretation of Germany in the context of the two World Wars and the Cold War. Complex opposites and friend‐foe paradigms characterise the portrayal of Germany and its relation to Russia in Solzhenitsyn's work. Solzhenitsyn suggests a bond of fate between Russia and Germany. Yet it was his trivialising discussion of Nazi crimes that became particularly relevant to his German reception, as well as his benevolent interpretation of the denazification process. Solzhenitsyn's admiration for German troops in the First World War and his views on Nazism are examined here in the context of the author's anti‐communism, nationalism, and anti‐Semitism. A discussion of paradigmatic texts from his (West) German reception during the Cold War illustrates the complexity of Solzhenitsyn's historical interpretations and the different responses to them.
Pharmacokinetics and tissue concentrations of firocoxib in sows following oral administration
Authors: Kleinhenz Michael D. , Odland Carissa , Williams Todd E. , Zhang Yuntao , Fitzgerald Alyson H. , Sidhu Pritam K. , Wulf Larry W. , Coetzee Johann F.
Published: April 2020

The objectives of this study were to describe the pharmacokinetics of firocoxib following oral (PO) dosing and intravenous (IV) injection in sows. Seven healthy sows were administered 0.5 mg firocoxib/kg IV. Following a 23‐d washout period, sows were administered firocoxib at 4.0 mg firocoxib/kg PO. Blood samples were collected at predetermined times for 72 hr after IV and 120 hr after PO administration. Plasma firocoxib concentration was measured using UPLC‐MS/MS, and pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using noncompartmental procedures. Tissue firocoxib concentrations were determined at 5, 10 (n = 2/time point), and 21 d (n = 3) after PO administration. The geometric mean half‐life following IV and PO administration was 16.6 and 22.5 hr, respectively. A mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of 0.06 µg/ml was recorded at 7.41 hr (Tmax) after oral administration. Mean oral bioavailability was determined to be 70.3%. No signs of NSAID toxicity were observed on macroscopic and microscopic investigation. Firocoxib was detected in the skin with subcutaneous fat (0.02 µg/g) of one of three sows at 21 days postadministration. Additional work to establish appropriate meat withhold intervals in sows is required. Firocoxib was readily absorbed following PO administration. Further work is needed to better understand the analgesic effects for sows and piglets nursing sows administered firocoxib.
A Multibody Model for Predicting Spatial Distribution of Human Brain Deformation Following Impact Loading
Authors: Gabrieli David , Vigilante Nicholas F. , Scheinfeld Rich , Rifkin Jared A. , Schumm Samantha N. , Wu Taotao , Gabler Lee F. , Panzer Matthew B. , Meaney David F.
Published: April 2020

With an increasing focus on long-term consequences of concussive brain injuries, there is a new emphasis on developing tools that can accurately predict the mechanical response of the brain to impact loading. Although finite element models (FEM) estimate the brain response under dynamic loading, these models are not capable of delivering rapid (∼seconds) estimates of the brain's mechanical response. In this study, we develop a multibody spring-mass-damper model that estimates the regional motion of the brain to rotational accelerations delivered either about one anatomic axis or across three orthogonal axes simultaneously. In total, we estimated the deformation across 120 locations within a 50th percentile human brain. We found the multibody model (MBM) correlated, but did not precisely predict, the computed finite element response (average relative error: 18.4 ± 13.1%). We used machine learning (ML) to combine the prediction from the MBM and the loading kinematics (peak rotational acceleration, peak rotational velocity) and significantly reduced the discrepancy between the MBM and FEM (average relative error: 9.8 ± 7.7%). Using an independent sports injury testing set, we found the hybrid ML model also correlated well with predictions from a FEM (average relative error: 16.4 ± 10.2%). Finally, we used this hybrid MBM-ML approach to predict strains appearing in different locations throughout the brain, with average relative error estimates ranging from 8.6% to 25.2% for complex, multi-axial acceleration loading. Together, these results show a rapid and reasonably accurate method for predicting the mechanical response of the brain for single and multiplanar inputs, and provide a new tool for quickly assessing the consequences of impact loading throughout the brain.
Effective containment explains subexponential growth in recent confirmed COVID-19 cases in China
Authors: Maier Benjamin F. , Brockmann Dirk
Published: April 2020

Containment works

National governments have taken different approaches in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, ranging from draconian quarantines to laissez-faire mitigation strategies. In data from China collected in February 2020, Maier and Brockmann noticed that, unexpectedly, the epidemic did not take off exponentially. Nonexponential spread occurs when the supply of susceptible individuals is depleted on a time scale comparable to the infectious period of the virus. The results of the authors' modeling approach indicate that the public response to the epidemic plus containment policies were becoming effective despite the initial increase in confirmed cases.

Science
, this issue p.
742
Cytotoxic Necrotizing Factor Type 2 Produced by Pathogenic
Escherichia coli
Deamidates a Gln Residue in the Conserved G-3 Domain of the Rho Family and Preferentially Inhibits the GTPase Activity of RhoA and Rac1
Authors: Sugai Motoyuki , Hatazaki Kiyotaka , Mogami Akira , Ohta Hiroyuki , Pérès Sylvie Y. , Hérault Fredéric , Horiguchi Yasuhiko , Masuda Minako , Ueno Yoko , Komatsuzawa Hitoshi , Suginaka Hidekazu , Oswald Eric
Published: April 2020

Cytotoxic necrotizing factor types 1 and 2 (CNF1 and -2) produced by pathogenic
Escherichia coli
strains have 90% conserved residues over 1,014-amino-acid sequences. Both CNFs are able to provoke a remarkable increase in F-actin structures in cultured cells and covalently modify the RhoA small GTPases. In this study, we demonstrated that CNF2 reduced RhoA GTPase activity in the presence and absence of P122
RhoGAP
. Subsequently, peptide mapping and amino acid sequencing of CNF2-modified FLAG-RhoA produced in
E. coli
revealed that CNF2 deamidates Q63 of RhoA-like CNF1. In vitro incubation of the C-terminal domain of CNF2 with FLAG-RhoA resulted also in deamidation of the FLAG-RhoA, suggesting that this region contains the enzymatic domain of CNF2. An oligopeptide antibody (anti-E63) which specifically recognized the altered G-3 domain of the Rho family reacted with glutathione
S
-transferase (GST)-RhoA and GST-Rac1 but not with GST-Cdc42 when coexpressed with CNF2. In addition, CNF2 selectively induced accumulation of GTP form of FLAG-RhoA and FLAG-Rac1 but not of FLAG-Cdc42 in Cos-7 cells. Taken together, these results indicate that CNF2 preferentially deamidates RhoA Q63 and Rac1 Q61 and constitutively activates these small GTPases in cultured cells. In contrast, anti-E63 reacted with GST-RhoA and GST-Cdc42 but not with GST-Rac1 when coexpressed with CNF1. These results indicate that CNF2 and CNF1 share the same catalytic activity but have distinct substrate specificities, which may reflect their differences in toxic activity in vivo.
Continuous neurally adjusted ventilation: a feasibility study in preterm infants
Authors: Rochon Marie-Eve , Lodygensky Gregory , Tabone Laurence , Essouri Sandrine , Morneau Sylvain , Sinderby Christer , Beck Jennifer , Emeriaud Guillaume
Published: April 2020

Objectives

To assess the feasibility and tolerance of NeuroPAP, a new non-invasive ventilation mode which continuously adjusts (during both inspiration and expiration) the pressure support proportionally to the diaphragm electrical activity (Edi), in preterm infants and to evaluate the impact on ventilation pressure and Edi.

Design

Prospective cross-over single-centre feasibility study.

Setting

One level 3 neonatal intensive care unit in Canada.

Patients

Stable preterm infants ventilated with non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV).

Interventions

Subjects were successively ventilated in NIPPV with prestudy settings (30 min), in NeuroPAP with minimal pressure similar to NIPPV PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure) (60 min), in NeuroPAP with minimal pressure reduced by 2 cmH20 (60 min), in continuous positive airway pressure (15 min) and again in NIPPV (30 min). Main outcome measures included tolerance, ventilation pressure, Edi and patient-ventilator synchrony.

Results

Twenty infants born at 28.0±1.0 weeks were included. NeuroPAP was well tolerated and could be delivered during 100% of planned period. During NeuroPAP, the PEEP was continuously adjusted proportionally to tonic diaphragm Edi, although the average PEEP value was similar to the set minimal pressure. During NeuroPAP, 83 (78–86)% breaths were well synchronised vs 9 (6–12)% breaths during NIPPV (p<0.001).

Conclusions

NeuroPAP is feasible and well tolerated in stable preterm infants, and it allows transient adaptation in PEEP in response to tonic diaphragm electrical activity changes. Further studies are warranted to determine the impact of these findings on clinical outcomes.

Trial registration number

NCT02480205.
Prognostic value of intermediate age-related macular degeneration phenotypes for geographic atrophy progression
Authors: Thiele Sarah , Nadal Jennifer , Pfau Maximilian , Saßmannshausen Marlene , Fleckenstein Monika , Holz Frank G , Schmid Matthias , Schmitz-Valckenberg Steffen
Published: April 2020

Background

To characterise early stages of geographic atrophy (GA) development in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and to determine the prognostic value of structural precursor lesions in eyes with intermediate (i) AMD on the subsequent GA progression.

Methods

Structural precursor lesions for atrophic areas (lesion size at least 0.5 mm² in fundus autofluorescence images) were retrospectively identified based on multimodal imaging and evaluated for association with the subsequent GA enlargement rates (square-root transformed, sqrt). A linear mixed-effects model was used to account for the hierarchical nature of the data with a Tukey post hoc test to assess the impact of the local precursor on the subsequent GA progression rate.

Results

A total of 39 eyes with GA of 34 patients with a mean age of 74.4±6.7 (±SD) years were included in this study. Five precursor lesions (phenotypes 1–5) preceding GA development were identified: large, sub-retinal pigment epithelial drusen (n=19), reticular pseudodrusen (RPD, n=10), refractile deposits (n=4), pigment epithelial detachment (n=4) and vitelliform lesions (n=2). Precursor lesions exhibited a significant association with the subsequent (sqrt) GA progression rates (p=0.0018) with RPD (phenotype 2) being associated with the fastest GA enlargement (2.29±0.52 (±SE) mm/year.

Conclusions

The results indicate the prognostic relevance of iAMD phenotyping for subsequent GA progression highlighting the role of structural AMD features across different AMD stages.
HPV types, cervical high-grade lesions and risk factors for oncogenic human papillomavirus infection among 3416 Tanzanian women
Authors: Mchome Bariki Lawrence , Kjaer Susanne Krüger , Manongi Rachel , Swai Patricia , Waldstroem Marianne , Iftner Thomas , Wu Chunsen , Mwaiselage Julius , Rasch Vibeke
Published: April 2020

Objective

The objective of the present study was to assess the prevalence and type-specific distribution of cervical high-risk (HR) human papillomavirus (HPV) among women with normal and abnormal cytology, and to describe risk factors for HR HPV among HIV-positive and HIV-negative women in Tanzania.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted in existing cervical cancer screening clinics in Kilimanjaro and Dar es Salaam. Cervical specimens were obtained from women aged 25–60 years. Samples were shipped to Denmark for cytological examination, and to Germany for HR HPV testing (using Hybrid Capture 2) and genotyping (using LiPaExtra). Risk factors associated with HPV were assessed by multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Result

Altogether, 4080 women were recruited with 3416 women contributing data for the present paper, including 609 HIV-positive women and 2807 HIV-negative women. The overall HR HPV prevalence was 18.9%, whereas the HR HPV prevalence in women with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) was 92.7%. Among HPV-positive women with HSIL, HPV16 (32.5%) and HPV58 (19.3%) were the the most common types followed by HPV18 (16.7%) and HPV52 (16.7%). Factors associated with HR HPV included younger age, increasing number of partners and early age at first intercourse. Similar risk factors were found among HIV-positive and HIV-negative women. In addition, among HIV-positive women, those with CD4 counts <200 cells/mm3had an increased risk of HR HPV (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.2 to 4.8) compared with individuals with CD4 count ≥500 cells/mm3.

Conclusion

Given the HPV distribution among Tanzanian women, the current HPV vaccination in Tanzania using quadrivalent vaccine may be considered replaced by the nonavalent vaccine in the future. In addition, appropriate antiretroviral treatment management including monitoring of viremia may decrease the burden of HR HPV in HIV-positive women.
Student and Faculty Satisfaction with Their Dental Curriculum in a Dental College in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdelsalam Maha , Rodriguez Tobias E. , Brallier Lynn
Published: April 2020

The existing dental curriculum is taught at the College of Dentistry since 2002. The aim of this research is to explore the satisfaction levels of faculty members and students with that curriculum. This information will justify a curriculum reformation plan that addresses the aspirations of both faculty members and students. In this cross-sectional study, a two-section survey was prepared. Section 1 investigated the level of satisfaction with the curriculum, and Section 2 sought reasons why participants were satisfied with the curriculum. The questionnaire was electronically mailed to faculty members, interns, and senior students. Data were analyzed to identify patterns and points of disagreement expressed by faculty and students. The overall response rate was 68.7%. The mean standard deviation (SD) score in the study sample from all respondents was 5.0 (+3.0). Faculty significantly registered higher satisfaction than students (mean (SD) = 5.9 (+2.9) and 4.1 (+2.8),P=0.002). Results of multivariate analysis showed that faculty members were more satisfied with the curriculum than students because they thought the curriculum prepared competent graduates (regression coefficient = 1.76 and 0.69). Teaching staff and students’ satisfaction levels with the curriculum were significantly associated with their perception that the curriculum produces competent graduates. Areas with low students’ satisfaction levels were related to promotion of engagement with others and development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These areas should be the focus of future curriculum reformation to prepare competitive graduates with competences aligned with the recommendations of the Saudi Arabia Qualification Framework and of the international benchmarks.
Pituitary Function after High-Dose 177Lu-DOTATATE Therapy and Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Sundlöv Anna , Sjögreen-Gleisner Katarina , Tennvall Jan , Dahl Ludvig , Svensson Johanna , Åkesson Anna , Bernhardt Peter , Lindgren Ola
Published: April 2020

Introduction: The pituitary gland has a high expression of somatostatin receptors and is therefore a potential organ at risk for radiation-induced toxicity after 177Lu-DOTATATE treatment. Objective: To study changes in pituitary function in patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) treated with dosimetry-based 177Lu-DOTATATE to detect possible late toxicity. Methods: 68 patients from a phase II clinical trial of dosimetry-based, individualized 177Lu-DOTATATE therapy were included in this analysis. Patients had received a median of 5 (range 3–9) treatment cycles of 7.4 GBq/cycle. Median follow-up was 30 months (range 11–89). The GH/IGF-1 axis, gonadotropins, and adrenal and thyroid axes were analyzed at baseline and on a yearly basis thereafter. Percent changes in hormonal levels over time were analyzed statistically using a linear mixed model and described graphically using box plots. The absorbed radiation dose to the pituitary was estimated based on post-therapeutic imaging, and the results analyzed versus percent change in IGF-1 levels over time. Results: A statistically significant decrease in IGF-1 levels was found (p < 0.005), which correlated with the number of treatment cycles (p = 0.008) and the absorbed radiation dose (p = 0.03). A similar decrease, although non-significant, was seen in gonadotropins in postmenopausal women, while in men there was an increase during the first years after therapy, after which the levels returned to baseline. No change was observed in the adrenal or thyroid axes. Conclusions: No signs of severe endocrine disorders were detected, although a significant decrease in the GH/IGF-1 axis was found, where dosimetric analyses indicated radiation-induced damage to the pituitary gland as a probable cause.
Loughborough Soccer Passing Test é reprodutível em superfície específica à prática de futebol de campo
Authors: Ganzer Vinicius Rosa , Ribeiro Yuri Salenave , Del Vecchio Fabrício Boscolo
Published: April 2020

Objetivou-se verificar a reprodutibilidade teste-reteste do Loughborough Soccer Passing Test (LSPT) em quadra coberta e campo gramado. Ademais, buscou-se comparar e correlacionar os resultados de jovens futebolistas. Para isso, dez participantes com média de idade de 14,7±0,5 anos, 173,4±9,1 cm de estatura, e 61,5±9,0 kg realizaram duas medidas de avaliação, separadas por sete dias, do protocolo do LSPT em campo gramado e quadra coberta. Como resultados, os valores de Coeficiente Correlação Intraclasse, Coeficiente de Variação, Erro Padrão de Medida e Nível de Concordância sugerem que o LSPT seja protocolo reprodutível para o campo gramado. Na quadra coberta, o Tempo Limpo (TLim) foi de 47,8±4,4s, o Tempo de Penalidades de 21,4±9,9s e o Tempo de Desempenho (TD) de 65,7±13,3s. Já no campo gramado foi de 49,3±4,2s, 29±7,4s, e 76,6±12s para Limpo, Penalidades e Desempenho, respectivamente. Não foi encontrada diferença estatística significativa para Tempo Limpo e Tempo de Desempenho (TLim: t = 0,10; p = 0,36; TD: t = 0,31; p = 0,17). No entanto, para o Tempo de Penalidades (TPenal) houve diferença entre os valores obtidos (TPenal: t = 0,14; p = 0,02). Não foram identificadas correlações estatisticamente significantes para as variáveis de TLim (r = 0,59; p = 0,07) e TPenal (r = 0,49; p = 0,15), mas, para o TD houve correlação (r = 0,64; p = 0,04). Conclui-se que o LSPT é ferramenta de avaliação de habilidade específica de passe em superfície específica à prática de futebol. Ainda, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa no desempenho do LSPT entre superfícies distintas, embora mais penalidades foram verificadas no campo gramado. A correlação de TD no LSPT entre as diferentes superfícies sugere que os protocolos apontam para o mesmo objetivo de avaliação.
Effects of one resistance training session on body checking behaviors in male adults
Authors: Fortes Leonardo de Souza , Ferreira Maria Elisa Caputo , Vianna Jeferson Macedo , Aranda Liliane Cunha , Cyrino Edilson Serpeloni
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study is to analyse the effects of a session of resistance training on body checking in male adults. Participants included 50 volunteers aged between 18 and 30 years. A single session of resistance training was performed, and we used hypertrophy as our training method. Body checking behaviors were assessed using the Male Body Checking Questionnaire (MBCQ). Participants answered the MBCQ before (T1), immediately after (T2), and 24 h (T3), 48 h (T4) and 72 h (T5) after the resistance training session. The findings showed no difference in the subscale "compared to other people" (p=0.32). However, statistically significant differences were found for the subscales “use of reflective surface” (p=0.03), "check by clamping" (p=0.04) and "evaluation by others" (p=0.02). We concluded that a single session of resistance training was able to positively change some body checking behaviors of male adults.
Do teatro, uma terapia
Authors: Ferraz Giovan Sehn
Published: April 2020

Este trabalho faz parte de uma pesquisa maior, na qual procuramos compreender como uma técnica terapêutica de pretensão anarquista e científica, a somaterapia de Roberto Freire, surgiu e se desenvolveu a partir do cenário contracultural dos anos 1970. Neste artigo, discutimos os processos de memória em torno da criação da somaterapia, problematizando incongruências e procurando demonstrar o caráter basilar da influência do Centro de Estudos Macunaíma na criação e no desenvolvimento dessa técnica terapêutica. Para analisar os processos de memória emergentes nas fontes, compostas principalmente pelas obras de Freire e somaterapeutas ou simpatizantes, utilizamo-nos especialmente dos aportes teóricos de Bourdieu, Pollak e Catroga.
International prognostic score for asymptomatic early-stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Condoluci Adalgisa , Terzi di Bergamo Lodovico , Langerbeins Petra , Hoechstetter Manuela A. , Herling Carmen D. , De Paoli Lorenzo , Delgado Julio , Rabe Kari G. , Gentile Massimo , Doubek Michael , Mauro Francesca R. , Chiodin Giorgia , Mattsson Mattias , Bahlo Jasmin , Cutrona Giovanna , Kotaskova Jana , Deambrogi Clara , Smedby Karin E. , Spina Valeria , Bruscaggin Alessio , Wu Wei , Moia Riccardo , Bianchi Elena , Gerber Bernhard , Zucca Emanuele , Gillessen Silke , Ghielmini Michele , Cavalli Franco , Stussi Georg , Hess Mark A. , Baumann Tycho S. , Neri Antonino , Ferrarini Manlio , Rosenquist Richard , Forconi Francesco , Foà Robin , Pospisilova Sarka , Morabito Fortunato , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Döhner Hartmut , Parikh Sameer A. , Wierda William G. , Montserrat Emili , Gaidano Gianluca , Hallek Michael , Rossi Davide
Published: April 2020

Most patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are diagnosed with early-stage disease and managed with active surveillance. The individual course of patients with early-stage CLL is heterogeneous, and their probability of needing treatment is hardly anticipated at diagnosis. We aimed at developing an international prognostic score to predict time to first treatment (TTFT) in patients with CLL with early, asymptomatic disease (International Prognostic Score for Early-stage CLL [IPS-E]). Individual patient data from 11 international cohorts of patients with early-stage CLL (n = 4933) were analyzed to build and validate the prognostic score. Three covariates were consistently and independently correlated with TTFT: unmutated immunoglobulin heavy variable gene (IGHV), absolute lymphocyte count higher than 15 × 109/L, and presence of palpable lymph nodes. The IPS-E was the sum of the covariates (1 point each), and separated low-risk (score 0), intermediate-risk (score 1), and high-risk (score 2-3) patients showing a distinct TTFT. The score accuracy was validated in 9 cohorts staged by the Binet system and 1 cohort staged by the Rai system. The C-index was 0.74 in the training series and 0.70 in the aggregate of validation series. By meta-analysis of the training and validation cohorts, the 5-year cumulative risk for treatment start was 8.4%, 28.4%, and 61.2% among low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk patients, respectively. The IPS-E is a simple and robust prognostic model that predicts the likelihood of treatment requirement in patients with early-stage CLL. The IPS-E can be useful in clinical management and in the design of early intervention clinical trials.
Identification of NHXs in Gossypium species and the positive role of GhNHX1 in salt tolerance
Authors: Long Lu , Zhao Jing-Ruo , Guo Dan-Dan , Ma Xiao-Nan , Xu Fu-Chun , Yang Wen-Wen , Gao Wei
Published: April 2020

Background

Plant Na+/H+ antiporters (NHXs) are membrane-localized proteins that maintain cellular Na+/K+ and pH homeostasis. Considerable evidence highlighted the critical roles of NHX family in plant development and salt response; however, NHXs in cotton are rarely studied.

Results

The comprehensive and systematic comparative study of NHXs in three Gossypium species was performed. We identified 12, 12, and 23 putative NHX proteins from G. arboreum, G. raimondii, and G. hirsutum, respectively. Phylogenetic study revealed that repeated polyploidization of Gossypium spp. contributed to the expansion of NHX family. Gene structure analysis showed that cotton NHXs contain many introns, which will lead to alternative splicing and help plants to adapt to high salt concentrations in soil. The expression changes of NHXs indicate the possible differences in the roles of distinct NHXs in salt response. GhNHX1 was proved to be located in the vacuolar system and intensively induced by salt stress in cotton. Silencing of GhNHX1 resulted in enhanced sensitivity of cotton seedlings to high salt concentrations, which suggests that GhNHX1 positively regulates cotton tolerance to salt stress.

Conclusion

We characterized the gene structure, phylogenetic relationship, chromosomal location, and expression pattern of NHX genes from G. arboreum, G. raimondii, and G. hirsutum. Our findings indicated that the cotton NHX genes are regulated meticulously and differently at the transcription level with possible alternative splicing. The tolerance of plants to salt stress may rely on the expression level of a particular NHX, rather than the number of NHXs in the genome. This study could provide significant insights into the function of plant NHXs, as well as propose promising candidate genes for breeding salt-resistant cotton cultivars.
Development and characterization of 16 novel microsatellite markers by Transcriptome sequencing for Angelica dahurica and test for cross-species amplification
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Lu Zuyu , He Wei , Li Fang , Chen Wenna , Li Chan , Chao Zhi , Tian Enwei
Published: April 2020

Background

Angelica dahurica (Apiaceae) is an important herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Because of its important medicinal and economic values, its wild resources were over-exploited and increasingly reduced. Meanwhile, the diversity of cultivars of A. dahurica has decreased as a result of long-term artificial cultivation. However, there are no population genetics studies of natural A. dahurica reported yet, especially for using microsatellite markers (SSRs) to investigate population genetics of the species.

Results

Sixteen polymorphic EST-SSR loci were isolated from A. dahurica with transcriptome sequencing technology (RNA-Seq). The number of alleles varied from 2 to 15 per polymorphic locus over populations with the observed and expected heterozygosities ranging from 0.000 to 1.000 and from 0.000 to 0.829, respectively. Significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium were observed at 8 loci. Tests of linkage disequilibrium showed 11 informative locus pairs were significant across all populations. Cross-species amplification showed that 14 out of 16 SSR loci have the transferability in cultivar-A. dahurica cv. ‘Hangbaizhi’ and A. decursiva.

Conclusions

The 16 newly developed loci microsatellite primers with RNA-Seq will be useful for further investigating population genetics of A. dahurica, cultivars and other members of this genus.
Minimum 8-year follow-up of revision THA with severe femoral bone defects using extensively porous-coated stems and cortical strut allografts
Authors: Ding Zi-chuan , Ling Ting-xian , Yuan Ming-cheng , Qin Yong-zhi , Mou Ping , Wang Hao-yang , Zhou Zong-ke
Published: April 2020

Background

Revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) with severe femoral bone defects remains a major challenge. The purpose of this study is to report the minimum 8-year clinical and radiographic results of revision THA with severe femoral bone defects treated with extensively porous-coated stems and cortical strut allografts.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 44 patients diagnosed with Paprosky type III and IV femoral bone defects between January 2006 and July 2011. The exclusion criteria were patients not eligible for surgery, revised with extensively porous-coated stems alone, lost to follow-up and deceased. A total of 31 patients treated with extensively porous-coated stems and cortical strut allografts were finally included in this study. The degree of femoral bone defects was categorized as Paprosky type IIIA in 19 patients, type IIIB in 9 patients and type IV in 3 patients. The mean duration of follow-up was 11.0 ± 1.5 (range, 8.1–13.5) years.

Results

The mean Harris Hip Score improved significantly from 43.4 ± 10.5 points to 85.2 ± 6.6 points (P < 0.001). Similarly, WOMAC and SF-12 scores also significantly improved. Twenty-eight stems achieved stable bone ingrowth, two stems showed stable fibrous ingrowth, and one stem was radiologically unstable. Complete union and bridging between cortical strut allografts and host bone was achieved in all 31 patients. The femoral width was augmented with cortical strut allografts after revision surgery (an increase of 10.5 ± 0.5 mm) and showed a slight decrease of 2.5 ± 4.8 mm after the 10-year follow-up. Using re-revision for any reason as an endpoint, the Kaplan-Meier cumulative survival rate of the stem was 96.2% (95% confidence interval, 75.7–99.5%) at 10 years.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that the use of extensively porous-coated stems combined with cortical strut allografts in revision THA with Paprosky type III and IV femoral bone defects can provide satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes with a minimum follow-up of 8 years.
A trial-based economic evaluation of the Restore4Stroke self-management intervention compared to an education-based intervention for stroke patients and their partners
Authors: van Mastrigt Ghislaine A. P. G. , van Eeden Mitchel , van Heugten Caroline M. , Tielemans Nienke , Schepers Vera P. M. , Evers Silvia M. A. A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Since stroke survivors are increasingly responsible for managing stroke-related changes in their own health and lifestyle, self-management skills are required. In a recent randomised controlled trial a self-management intervention based on proactive coping action planning (SMI) in comparison with an education-based intervention (EDU) in stroke patients was investigated. However, no relevant treatment effects on the Utrecht Proactive Coping Competence scale (UPCC) and the Utrecht Scale for Evaluation of Rehabilitation Participation (USER-Participation) were found. The current study is a trial-based economic evaluation from a societal perspective comparing the same interventions (SMI versus EDU).

Methods

UPCC, USER-Participation and EuroQol (EQ-5D-3 L) and costs were measured at baseline, three, six and twelve months after treatment. For the cost-effectiveness analyses, incremental cost effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated for UPCC and USER-Participation. For the cost-utility analyses the incremental cost utility ratio (ICUR) was expressed in cost per Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs). Outcomes were tested by means of AN(C)OVA analyses and costs differences by means of bootstrapping. Bootstrapping, sensitivity analyses and a subgroup analysis were performed to test the robustness of the findings.

Results

One hundred thirteen stroke patients were included in this study. The mean differences in USER-Participation scores (95%CI:-13.08,-1.61, p-value = .013) were significant different between the two groups, this does not account for UPCC scores (95%CI:-.267, .113, p-value = not significant) and QALYs (p-value = not significant) at 12 months. The average total societal costs were not significantly different (95%CI:€-3380,€7099) for SMI (€17,333) in comparison with EDU (€15,520). Cost-effectiveness analyses showed a mean ICER of 26,514 for the UPCC and 346 for the USER-Participation. Cost-utility analysis resulted in an ICUR of €44,688 per QALY. Assuming a willingness to pay (WTP) threshold of €50,000 per QALY, the probability that SMI will be cost-effective is 52%. Sensitivity analyses and subgroup analysis showed the robustness of the results.

Conclusions

SMI is probably not a cost-effective alternative in comparison with EDU. Based on the current results, the value of implementing SMI for a stroke population is debatable. We recommend further exploration of the potential cost-effectiveness of stroke-specific self-management interventions focusing on different underlying mechanisms and using different control treatments.
Reporting of financial conflicts of interest in meta-analyses of drug trials published in high-impact medical journals: comparison of results from 2017 to 2018 and 2009
Authors: Benea Carla , Turner Kimberly A. , Roseman Michelle , Bero Lisa A. , Lexchin Joel , Turner Erick H. , Thombs Brett D.
Published: April 2020

Background

A previous study found that 2 of 29 (6.9%) meta-analyses published in high-impact journals in 2009 reported included drug trials’ funding sources, and none reported trial authors’ financial conflicts of interest (FCOIs) or industry employment. It is not known if reporting has improved since 2009. Our objectives were to (1) investigate the extent to which pharmaceutical industry funding and author-industry FCOIs and employment from included drug trials are reported in meta-analyses published in high-impact journals and (2) compare current reporting with results from 2009.

Methods

We searched PubMed (January 2017–October 2018) for systematic reviews with meta-analyses including ≥ 2 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of patented drugs. We included 3 meta-analyses published January 2017–October 2018 from each of 4 high-impact general medicine journals, high-impact journals from 5 specialty areas, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, as in the previous study.

Results

Among 29 meta-analyses reviewed, 13 of 29 (44.8%) reported the funding source of included trials compared to 2 of 29 (6.9%) in 2009, a difference of 37.9% (95% confidence interval, 15.7 to 56.3%); this included 7 of 11 (63.6%) from general medicine journals, 3 of 15 (20.0%) from specialty medicine journals, and 3 of 3 (100%) Cochrane reviews. Only 2 of 29 meta-analyses (6.9%) reported trial author FCOIs, and none reported trial author-industry employment.

Protocol Publication

A protocol was uploaded to the Open Science Framework prior to initiating the study. https://osf.io/8xt5p/

Limitations

We examined only a relatively small number of meta-analyses from selected high-impact journals and compared results to a similarly small sample from an earlier time period.

Conclusions

Reporting of drug trial sponsorship and author FCOIs in meta-analyses published in high-impact journals has increased since 2009 but is still suboptimal. Standards on reporting of trial funding described in the forthcoming revised PRISMA statement should be adapted and enforced by journals to improve reporting.
Attraction of Direct Foreign Investments As a Factor of Sustainable Development
Authors: Rusak E.
Published: April 2020

The article analyzes the instruments of state investment policy in the Republic of Belarus to attract foreign direct investment in the interests of sustainable development. Particular attention is paid to the creation of special preferential regimes in the Sino-Belarusian Industrial Park "Great Stone", the Belarusian High-Tech Park, free economic zones. An assessment of the effectiveness of stimulating direct foreign investment is given, the position of Belarus, Russia and other EAEU member countries in the leading world investment ratings is presented. The proposals on improving the investment climate in the Republic of Belarus to achieve the goals of sustainable development are justified.
Analisis Daya Dukung Bored Pile Pada Pembangunan Pondasi Jembatan Kali Kenteng dan Kali Serang Segmen Susukan di Ruas Jalan Tol Salatiga-Kartasura, PT. Waskita Karya (Persero), Kabupaten Semarang, Provinsi Jawa Tengah
Authors: Fauzih Reza Afrizona , Najib Najib , Santi Narulita
Published: April 2020

Jembatan Kali Kenteng dan Kali Serang merupakan salah satu proyek dari 4 pembangunan jembatan di ruas jalan tol Salatiga – Kartasura (STA 47+860.50 ~ 48+348.52). Jembatan ini terletak di terusan Kali Kenteng dan Kali Serang yang terdapat pada daerah Susukan, Kabupaten Semarang. Permasalahan yang ditemukan pada sepanjang jalur Salatiga ini adalah akibat morfologi dan kelerengan yang cukup curam, grid elevasinya mencapai 10-15º yang dapat membahayakan pengguna jalan dan dapat membuat kemacetan panjang. Tujuan dari penelitian tersebut untuk mengetahui persebaran tanah dan batuan secara vertikal dan lateral, mengetahui kapasitas daya dukung yang diijinkan pada pondasi pembangunan jembatan, dan mengetahui litologi dan kedalaman yang tepat sebagai batuan pondasi jembatan untuk rekomendasi desain pondasi tiang pancang. Jenis pondasi yang digunakan dalam pembangunan jembatan tersebut yakni pondasi bored pile. Kapasitas daya dukung maksimum dan beban maksimum yang diizinkan ditentukan berdasarkan analisis data yakni uji SPT (Standart Penetration Test), param sifat fisik tanah (berat jenis) dan sifat mekanik tanah (kohesi dan sudut geser dalam). Berdasarkan pemetaan geologi teknik, daerah penelitian memiliki satuan breksi vulkanik dan satuan lempung. Hasil perhitungan menggunakan metode Uji SPT dan sifat fisik dan mekanik tanah, menunjukkan nilai diameter 1,5 mampu menjadi pondasi daerah tersebut pada kedalaman yang berbeda. Nilai yang direkomendasikan menggunakan pengujian SPT lebih cocok karena memiliki nilai daya dukung yang lebih besar dibandingkan dengan menggunakan metode sifat fisik dan mekanik tanah. Batuan yang cocok menjadi pondasi adalah breksi vulkanik.
Protective effect of asiaticoside on radiation-induced proliferation inhibition and DNA damage of fibroblasts and mice death
Authors: Shen Haiyan , Zhu Fei , Li Jinsheng , Tang Songjia , Zhang Yale , Zhang Jufang
Published: April 2020

Background

Radiation-induced injuries (RII) mainly result from reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are harmful compounds that can damage DNA. Asiaticoside (AC), one of the main functional components extracted from Centella asiatica, has potent pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity. However, its role in RII remains unclear.

Purpose

The purpose of the current study is to investigate whether AC can mitigate RII in vitro and in vivo.

Material and Methods

Cell model of RII was successfully established by 5J/m2 radiation in vitro. For the in vivo RII model, mice were irradiated with 5 Gy to the thorax. The degree of damage to cells or mouse tissue was determined by measuring the numbers of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), oxidative stress, and mouse survival rates.

Results

In the in vitro assay, AC administration significantly reduced radiation-induced growth inhibition of Escherichia coli and fibroblasts, DSBs and apoptosis of fibroblasts; in the in vivo study, AC could decrease antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) of plasma and protect mice from RII, thereby improving the survival rates of mice after radiation.

Conclusions

These novel data indicate that AC is able to prevent radiation-initiated genotoxicity by mitigating DNA damage, and might serve as a safe and effective radio-protective agent.