bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of the clinical pharmacist interventions at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research Hospital in Qatar
Authors: Al Dali Sara , Al-Badriyeh Daoud , Gulied Amaal , Hamad Anas , Hail Moza Al , Rouf Palli Valappila Abdul , El-Kassem Wessam , Abushanab Dina
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Drug-related problems (DRPs) affect the health outcomes of patients during hospitalization. We sought to analyze the clinical pharmacist-documented interventions among hospitalized patients in the cancer hospital in Qatar.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of electronically reported clinical pharmacist interventions of patients admitted to cancer units at Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar was conducted. Extracted data was based on an overall 3-month follow-up period; March 1–31, 2018, July 15–August 15, 2018 and January 1–31, 2019. Categorical variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages, while continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD).

Results

A total of 281 cancer patients with 1354 interventions were included. The average age of the study participants was 47 years (SD ± 17.36). The majority of the study population was females ( n = 154, 54.80%). The prevailing pharmacist intervention was the addition of a drug therapy ( n = 305, 22.53%), followed by medication discontinuation ( n = 288, 21.27%) and the addition of a prophylactic agent ( n = 174, 12.85%). This pattern was similar across all subgroups (i.e., gender, age, ward), except for the urgent care unit, where an increase in medication dose was the third highest frequently identified intervention ( n = 3, 0.22%). The two medication groups associated with the majority of interventions were the anti-infective and fluid/electrolyte agents. Most of the interventions documented were in the oncology ward (73.19%), while the urgent care unit had the least documented interventions (1.62%).

Conclusions

Our analysis showed that clinical pharmacists can effectively identify and prevent DRPs among hospitalized cancer patients.
Parametric analysis of masonry arches following a limit analysis approach: Influence of joint friction, pier texture, and arch shallowness
Authors: Rios Alejandro Jimenez , Nela Bledian , Pingaro Marco , Reccia Emanuele , Trovalusci Patrizia
Published: July 2023

Among the most characteristic structures in historical constructions for crossing large spans are the masonry vaulted structures by utilizing their geometric stability to safely transfer the loads to supports with regard to their negligible tensile strength. The ability of masonry piers to bear such transferred stresses and safely convey them to the support is directly related to their structural integrity, as well as to a number of other factors. Using an in-house limit analysis code, a study on the crucial parameters impacting the safety level of piers under the thrust of arches is performed. Parameters such as pier texture, joint friction angle, and arch shallowness, namely, shallow, semi-circular, and pointed arches, were investigated under three load scenarios: horizontal and concentrated vertical live load applied at mid-span and quarter-span. The main findings of this work show that all studied parameters have a significant influence on the structure response. Higher friction values, sharper arches, and piers that follow the rule of art result in higher collapse multipliers. Furthermore, this work emphasizes the importance of accounting for the sliding mechanism and masonry texture, parameters that are often neglected.
Refined explicit solution for the stress field around an elliptical cylindrical tunnel with a moderate depth
Authors: Huang Cheng , Dai Ming
Published: July 2023

We consider a horizontal elliptical tunnel buried in a medium under gravity and lateral pressure (perpendicular to the generatrix of the tunnel). The stress field in the medium is generally treated as the superposition of an initial stress field induced by the gravitational body force and lateral pressure before tunnel excavation and the perturbation stress field after the introduction of the tunnel. Closed-form solutions for the perturbation stress field are available if the interaction between the tunnel and the surface of the medium is neglected. The initial stress field is usually assumed to be constant in deriving closed-form solutions for the perturbation stress field since it is often believed that the interaction between the tunnel and the surface of the medium is negligible only for a deep-buried tunnel. However, it is indicated from the literature that the interaction between the tunnel and the surface of the medium is insignificant in determining the stress distribution around the tunnel as long as the distance between them exceeds the diameter of the tunnel’s cross section. Consequently, we are motivated to derive in this paper a refined closed-form solution for the perturbation stress field by admitting a realistic initial stress field that varies linearly in the depth direction. The refined solution may lead to more accurate results in predicting the gravity-triggered stress concentration around a moderate-depth tunnel. The refined solution is compared with the classical solution (obtained by using a constant initial stress field) in calculating the hoop stress around the tunnel via several numerical examples.
Vaccine-breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infections in people with multiple sclerosis and related conditions: An observational study by the New York COVID-19 Neuro-Immunology Consortium (NYCNIC-2)
Authors: Klineova Sylvia , Farber Rebecca Straus , DeAngelis Tracy , Leung Tungming , Smith Tyler , Blanck Richard , Zhovtis-Ryerson Lana , Harel Asaff
Published: July 2023

Background:

People with MS (PwMS) and related conditions treated with anti-CD20 and S1P modulating therapies exhibit attenuated immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. It remains unclear whether humoral/T-cell responses are valid surrogates for postvaccine immunity.

Objective:

To characterize COVID-19 vaccine-breakthrough infections in this population.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective multicenter cohort study of PwMS and related CNS autoimmune conditions with confirmed breakthrough infections. Postvaccination antibody response, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) at the time of vaccination, and DMT at the time of infection were assessed.

Results:

Two hundred nine patients had 211 breakthrough infections. Use of anti-CD20 agents at time of infection was associated with increased infection severity ( p = 0.0474, odds ratio (OR) = 5.923) for infections during the Omicron surge and demonstrated a trend among the total cohort ( p = 0.0533). However, neither use of anti-CD20 agents at the time of vaccination nor postvaccination antibody response was associated with hospitalization risk. Anti-CD20 therapies were relatively overrepresented compared to a similar prevaccination-era COVID-19 cohort.

Conclusion:

Use of anti-CD20 therapies during vaccine breakthrough COVID-19 infection is associated with higher severity. However, the attenuated postvaccination humoral response associated with anti-CD20 therapy use during vaccination may not drive increased infection severity. Further studies are necessary to determine if this attenuated vaccine response may be associated with an increased likelihood of breakthrough infection.
Some problem questions in studying the properties of dynamically vulcanized polymer systems based on ethylene/1-hexene copolymer and nitrile butadiene rubber
Authors: Kakhramanov Najaf , Huseynova Zulfira , Gahramanli Yunis , Hajiyeva Reykhan , Arzumanova Nushaba , Kurbanova Rena , Suleymanova Elmira
Published: July 2023

The article presents the results of a study of the influence of the type and concentration of nitrile butadiene rubber on the main physical and mechanical properties of polymer compositions based on compatibilized ethylene/1-hexene copolymer (EHC*). SKN-18, SKN-26, and SKN-40 were used as nitrile butadiene rubber. The compatibilizer – polyethylene-graft-methacrylic acid was used to improve the compatibility of the mixed components of the mixture. At the first stage, the task of the study was to investigate the effect of the concentration of the considered nitrile rubbers on such properties of the compositions as yield strength, tensile strength, elongation at break, flexural strength, melt flow rate and heat resistance. It was found that, regardless of the type of used nitrile butadiene rubber, with an increase in its content in the composition of the ethylene/1-hexene copolymer, a regular decrease in strength parameters, heat resistance, and melt fluidity is observed. It is shown that with the loading of 30 wt% SKN-18 or 40 wt% SKN-26 and SKN-40 into the composition of the ethylene/1-hexene copolymer phase inversion occurs in the composite materials, according to which the dispersed phase becomes a dispersed medium. The thermomechanical properties of the considered samples were studied. It was found that in those samples in which phase inversion occurred, a region of a highly elastic plateau is formed, which increases with an increase in the content of the rubber component. This area indicates the formation of elastomer with rubber properties. The regularities of crystallization of the compositions depending on the content of the amorphous component were studied by the method of stepwise dilatometry. The mechanism of crystal formation was studied depending on the content of the amorphous component. The influence of the crosslinking agent concentration – dicumyl peroxide on the main properties of dynamically vulcanized elastomers has been studied.
Effect of Z-binding depths on the ballistic performance of 3D woven through-the-thickness angle-interlock fabrics in a multiply system
Authors: He Yifan , Min Shengnan , Chen Si , Wang Jianming , Wang Zhonghua , Zhou Yi
Published: July 2023

Lightweight armor with excellent protection against ballistic impacts are pursued by researchers worldwide. This paper systematically investigates the effect of the Z-binding depths on the ballistic performance and failure mechanisms of para-aramid 3D fabrics. Two types of 3D woven through-the-thickness angle-interlock fabrics were designed and fabricated in comparison to the 2D plain weave fabric. The ballistic tests and finite element simulation analyses were carried out based on a similar areal density of 5.2 kg/m2 by layering up the fabrics. According to the experimental results, the variability and cumulative probability of penetration of the 20-P are higher than that of the 3D fabric systems, resulting in a 2.5% higher ballistic limit V50 of 8-5 TA than 20-P. Fabric plies failed abruptly in the 2D system, while the 3D system showed a progressive failure mode. The Z-warps, configure through the thickness of the fabric, result in the projectile tumbling and deviating from its original direction. A larger binding depth can help to prolong the defending process, which will mobilize more yarns to resist the projectile impact. The back-face deformation is well constrained by the 3D fabrics. Due to the fact that the designed 3D woven fabrics are more moldable than the plain weave, it could be potential candidates for the engineering design of female bullet-proof vest interlining.
Critical evaluation of the modified Rankin Scale for assessment of the efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy: A retrospective comparison between the modified Rankin Scale and functional independence measure
Authors: Sato Hirotaka , Mitsui Nobuyuki , Fujikawa Seiya , Kinoshita Manabu , Hori Kanako , Uebayashi Minoru , Kimura Teruo
Published: July 2023

Objective

The primary outcome measure used in mechanical thrombectomy (MT) trials is the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). However, the accuracy of mRS might be limited. On the other hand, the functional independence measure (FIM) is a widely used tool to quantify the extent to which patients require assistance during their activities of daily living. The current study aimed to reveal different clinical backgrounds that affect the efficacy of MT measured either by mRS or FIM.

Methods

Patients who underwent MT at our institution from January 2019 to July 2022 were included and divided into groups based on mRS scores of 0–2 and ≥ 3. Patients were also divided into two groups based on a cut-off value of FIM of ≥ 108, as patients with FIM ≥ 108 are capable of living an independent life.

Results

The mRS score was 0–2 in 33% of the patients, while the FIM score was ≥ 108 in only 15% of the patients. In the mRS groups, there were significant differences in terms of duration of hospitalization, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores, achievement of thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) reperfusion grade of 2b or 3, and postoperative bleeding. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that NIHSS score and achievement of TICI 2b or 3 were significant factors related to mRS 0–2 at discharge. The FIM groups differed significantly in terms of age and, duration of hospitalization, NIHSS score, although multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that only the NIHSS score was significantly associated with an FIM score of ≥ 108.

Conclusion

The study showed that the percentage of independent patients is significantly reduced when we evaluated the patients by the FIM. In addition, there are some differences in the clinical background that led to a good outcome between that evaluated by mRS and FIM.
A passage to India: The Indian film market and the political economy of Disney’s transnational operations
Authors: Rasul Azmat
Published: July 2023

This study analyses Disney’s operations in the Indian film market through its subsidiary, UTV Motion Pictures, during earlier decades. Scholarship in the critical political economy has ignored how transnational media corporations make inroads into profitable markets. The present study addresses this critical gap by examining Disney’s expansion strategies in the Indian culture market. The analysis reveals that Disney has increased its influence in the Indian entertainment sphere by following the capitalistic logic of profit maximisation at the expense of local production, distribution and consumption of entertainment products. The study discusses the future research agenda for critical political economy theory.
The carbon footprint of Bubble-PAPR™: A novel item of personal protective equipment
Authors: Pinder Annie , Fang Li , Hillson Rosie , Steinbach Ingeborg , McGrath Brendan , Shelton Cliff
Published: July 2023

Background:

Personal protective equipment has important environmental impacts, assessing these impacts is therefore an important element of personal protective equipment design. We applied carbon footprinting methodology to Bubble-PAPR™, a novel, part-reusable and part-recyclable powered air-purifying respirator, designed at our institution. Current guidance states that disposable respirator masks can be worn for 1-h in the United Kingdom, whilst the Bubble-PAPR™ allows prolonged use.

Methods:

Following a detailed use-case analysis, the carbon footprint of each component was estimated using a bottom-up (attributional) cradle-to-grave process-based analysis. Modelling considered the use of virgin or closed loop recycled polyvinyl chloride for the disposable hood element, and disposal via infectious or recycling waste streams to estimate a per-use carbon footprint.

Results:

The per-use carbon footprint with manufacture from virgin polyvinyl chloride and disposal via incineration is 0.805 kgCO2e. With nine cycles of closed loop recycling and manufacture of the polyvinyl chloride hood (10 uses), the carbon footprint falls to an average of 0.570 kgCO2e per use.

Conclusion:

Carbon footprinting may contribute to the value proposition of this novel technology. We estimate that a single Bubble-PAPR™ use has a higher carbon footprint than disposable respirator mask-based PPE. However, this is mitigated in circumstances when multiple disposable mask changes are required (e.g. prolonged use) and use may be justifiable when user comfort, visualisation and communication with patients and colleagues are essential.
Real-World Performance of First- Versus Second-Generation Automated Insulin Delivery Systems on a Pediatric Population With Type 1 Diabetes: A One-Year Observational Study
Authors: Bombaci Bruno , Passanisi Stefano , Valenzise Mariella , Macrì Fabio , Calderone Marco , Hasaj Senad , Zullo Sofia , Salzano Giuseppina , Lombardo Fortunato
Published: July 2023

Background:

The aim of this single-center observational study was to assess the real-world performance of first- and second-generation automated insulin delivery (AID) systems in a cohort of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes over a one-year follow-up.

Methods:

Demographic, anamnestic, and clinical data of the study cohort were collected at the start of automatic mode. Data on continuous glucose monitoring metrics, system settings, insulin requirements, and anthropometric parameters at three different time points (start period, six months, 12 months) were retrospectively gathered and statistically analyzed.

Results:

Fifty-four individuals (55.6% of females) aged 7 to 18 years switching to AID therapy were included in the analysis. Two weeks after starting automatic mode, subjects using advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL) showed a better response than hybrid closed-loop (HCL) users in terms of time in range ( P = .016), time above range 180 to 250 mg/dl ( P = .022), sensor mean glucose ( P = .047), and glycemia risk index ( P = .012). After 12 months, AHCL group maintained better mean sensor glucose ( P = .021) and glucose management indicator ( P = .027). Noteworthy, both HCL and AHCL users achieved the recommended clinical targets over the entire study period. The second-generation AID system registered longer time spent with automatic mode activated and fewer shifts to manual mode at every time point ( P < .001).

Conclusions:

Both systems showed sustained and successful glycemic outcomes in the first year of use. However, AHCL users achieved tighter glycemic targets, without an increase of hypoglycemia risk. Improved usability of the device may also have contributed to optimal glycemic outcomes by ensuring better continuity of the automatic mode activation.
PiRNA hsa_piR_019914 Promoted Chondrocyte Anabolic Metabolism By Inhibiting LDHA-Dependent ROS Production
Authors: Gao YuXuan , Yan Wen , Sun Liangye , Zhang XiaoLing
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease. The occurrence and progression of OA are regulated by epigenetics. A large number of studies have shown the important regulatory role of noncoding RNAs in joint diseases. As the largest class of noncoding small RNAs, the importance of piRNAs in many diseases, especially cancer, has been increasingly recognized. However, few studies have explored the role of piRNAs in OA. Our study showed that hsa_piR_019914 decreased significantly in OA. This study aimed to demonstrate the role of hsa_piR_019914 as a potential biological target of OA in chondrocytes.

Design

The GEO database and bioinformatics analysis were used for a series of screenings, and the OA model using human articular chondrocytes (C28/I2 cells), SW1353 cells under inflammatory factor stimulation was used to determine that hsa_piR_019914 was significantly downregulated in OA. Overexpression or inhibition of hsa_piR_019914 in C28/I2 cells was achieved by transfecting mimics or inhibitors. The effect of hsa_piR_019914 on the biological function of chondrocytes was verified by qPCR, flow cytometry, and colony formation assays in vitro. The target gene of hsa_piR_019914, lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), was screened by small RNA sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), LDHA was knocked out in C28/I2 cells by the transfection of siRNA LDHA, and the relationship between hsa_piR_019914, LDHA, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was verified by flow cytometry.

Results

The piRNA hsa-piR-019914 was significantly downregulated in osteoarthritis (OA). Hsa-piR-019914 reduced inflammation-mediated chondrocyte apoptosis and maintained cell proliferation and clone formation in vitro. Hsa-piR-019914 reduced the production of LDHA-dependent ROS through targeted regulation of LDHA expression, maintained chondrocyte-specific gene expression of ACAN and COL2, and inhibited the gene expression of MMP3 and MMP13.

Conclusions

Collectively, this study showed that hsa_piR_019914 was negatively correlated with the expression of LDHA, which mediates ROS production. Under the stimulation of inflammatory factors, overexpression of hsa_piR_019914 had a protective effect on chondrocytes in vitro, and the absence of hsa_piR_019914 exacerbated the negative effect of inflammation on chondrocytes. Studies on piRNAs provide new therapeutic interventions for OA.
Virtual versus in-person multidisciplinary musculoskeletal tumor conferences in times of COVID-19
Authors: Hirth Vanessa , Schopow Nikolas , Pfränger Jan , Roschke Elisabeth , Heyde Christoph-Eckhard , Osterhoff Georg
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Multidisciplinary tumor conferences are a fundamental component in the treatment of oncological patients. The COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting social distancing restrictions offered the opportunity to compare in-person to virtual multidisciplinary tumor conferences.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of first-time presentations in tumor conferences at a university musculoskeletal tumor center in the time periods from September 2019 to February 2020 (in-person) and May 2020 to October 2020 (virtual).

Results

A total of 209 patients were first-time discussed in one of 52 analyzed musculoskeletal multidisciplinary tumor conferences (105 patients in 25 in-person, and 104 patients 27 virtual meetings). The total number of participants was slightly lower with virtual meetings ( p < .001) and more disciplines were represented in virtual tumor conferences ( p < .001). With median six consultants present in either, the level of available expertise did not differ between the conference formats ( p  =  .606). Compared to in-person tumor meetings, the patients were discussed earlier in the virtual conferences ( p  =  .028). The interval between first presentation to biopsy was significantly shorter after virtual tumor conferences (median 4 vs. 7 days, p < .001). There was no significant difference in the interval between initial presentation and resection ( p  =  .544) among the two conference formats.

Conclusions

The implementation of virtual tumor conferences appears to have had a positive effect on timely diagnosis and multidisciplinarity during tumor conferences. This may result in better decision-making and treatment of patients with musculoskeletal tumors and could be routinely implemented into cancer care.
Usability evaluation of mobile phone technologies for capturing cancer patient-reported outcomes and physical functions
Authors: Oakley-Girvan Ingrid , Yunis Reem , Fonda Stephanie J , Neeman Elad , Liu Raymond , Aghaee Sara , Ramsey Maya E , Kubo Ai , Davis Sharon W
Published: July 2023

Background

By eliminating the requirement for participants to make frequent visits to research sites, mobile phone applications (“apps”) may help to decentralize clinical trials. Apps may also be an effective mechanism for capturing patient-reported outcomes and other endpoints, helping to optimize patient care during and outside of clinical trials.

Objectives

We report on the usability of Digital BioMarkers for Clinical Impact (DigiBioMarC™ (DBM)), a novel smartphone-based app used by cancer patients in conjunction with a wearable device (Apple Watch®). DBM is designed to collect patient-reported outcomes and record physical functions.

Methods

In a fully decentralized “bring-your-own-device” smartphone study, we enrolled 54 cancer patient and caregiver dyads from Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) from October 2020 through March 2021. Patients used the app for at least 28 days, completed weekly questionnaires about their symptoms, physical functions, and mood, and performed timed physical tasks. Usability was determined through a subset of the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS), the full System Usability Scale (SUS), the Net Promoter Score (NPS), and semi-structured interviews.

Results

We obtained usability survey data from 50 of 54 patients. Median responses to the selected MARS questions and the mean SUS scores indicated above average usability. The NPS from the semi-structured interviews at the end of the study was 24, indicating a favorable score.

Conclusions

Cancer patients reported above average usability for the DBM app. Qualitative analyses indicated that the app was easy to use and helpful. Future work will emphasize implementing further patient recommendations and evaluating the app's clinical efficacy in multiple settings.
Pharmacy Deserts and Pharmacies’ Roles Post-Extreme Weather and Climate Events in the United States: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sahota Harpreet , Guzman Samantha , Tordera Lissette , Chan Michelle , Cocohoba Jennifer , Saberi Parya
Published: July 2023

Background:

The effects of climate change are seen with a rise of extreme weather and climate events (EWCEs) which lead to the closures of many healthcare facilities, such as community pharmacies. Pharmacists in community pharmacies are seen as the most accessible healthcare professional to the public and are responsible for the continued delivery of care to patients. However, amid closures due to EWCEs and the emergence of pharmacy deserts, there is decreased access to pharmacies and a disruption of care.

Objective:

It is important to address the preparedness and accessibility of pharmacies post-EWCEs to guide future research and policy. Additionally, to tackle health disparities that arise due to pharmacy deserts, the populations most affected by a decreased access to pharmacies should be identified. We conducted a scoping review to assess the preparedness and accessibility of pharmacies post-EWCEs and to identify populations most affected by pharmacy deserts.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from January 1, 2012 to September 30, 2022 and included all English-language, peer-reviewed primary literature that examined the preparedness and accessibility of community pharmacies in the United States post-EWCEs and addressed disparities within pharmacy deserts. Studies meeting these criteria were screened of their titles and abstracts by the first author and discrepancies were resolved with co-authors. We used Covidence for data extraction.

Results:

A total of 472 studies were identified (196 duplicates removed) and after screening, 53 studies were assessed for eligibility. The results of included publications (N = 26) showed that pharmacists and pharmacies are not equipped with the necessary emergency protocols which could lead to decreased access of pharmacies in the wake of EWCEs. Pharmacy deserts disproportionately affect residents living in rural, lower income, and Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino neighborhoods. The lack of preparedness of pharmacies post-EWCEs could worsen medication access.

Conclusion:

This scoping review addresses challenges impacting pharmacies and patients post-EWCEs and within pharmacy deserts. In times of increased need, these challenges implicate the well-being of communities affected by EWCEs by breaking the continuum of care and access to medications. Here we offer suggestions for future research and directions for policy change.
Integration of ABC Analysis with Fuzzy DEMATEL and Fuzzy TOPSIS in Supplier Selection and Ranking Problems
Authors: Khan Firdous Ahmad , Khan Mohd Imran
Published: July 2023

While performing Always Better Control (ABC) analysis in an automobile industry, A category items are given higher priority, neglecting B and C category items which comprise 80% of the total inventory. Little attention to tail spend account poses problems in managing suppliers, unscheduled deliveries, and environmental issues. To address this gap a Multi-criteria decision making approach is proposed for supplier selection in each inventory class by integrating ABC Analysis with Fuzzy Decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory and Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution. The best suppliers are selected based on criteria weights and criteria interrelationships for each A, B, and C inventory items. The study shows that managers have to focus on key criteria rather than a whole set of criteria for A, B, and C inventory suppliers thus saving costs and effort. The results show that delivery and environmentally friendly products as common and important criteria for supplier selection in each inventory items. The research results will help the decision-makers and policymakers in solving the supplier selection problems in the automobile sector and other similar sectors.
Community Participation in Planning Social Infrastructure Delivery in Ghana’s Local Government: A Case Study of Shai Osudoku District
Authors: Kasapa Allan , Gyan Charles
Published: July 2023

The unintended consequences associated with non-inclusive participation are a key structural challenge facing Ghana’s decentralisation efforts over the past 25 years. This article uses a social transformation framework to examine the planning process in the delivery of social infrastructure. The qualitative descriptive design that draws from the naturalistic paradigm provided an in-depth exploration of stakeholder participation in planning social infrastructure delivery. Results suggest that the planning process is initiated by the district assembly within a legal framework and for which local participation is by invitation. The article argues for the setup of a local management team as part of the structure for social infrastructure delivery.
Prognostic analysis of uveal melanoma based on the characteristic genes of M2-type macrophages in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Fu Li , Huang Qun , Wu Yongfeng , Chen Diang
Published: July 2023

Uveal melanoma arises from stromal melanocytes and is the most prevalent primary intraocular tumor in adults. It poses a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to its high malignancy and early onset of metastases. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the role of diverse immune cells in tumor cell development and metastasis. Using The Cancer Genome Atlas and the gene expression omnibus databases, and the CIBERSORT method, we investigated the topography of intra-tumor immune infiltration in uveal melanoma in this research. We evaluated the prognosis of uveal melanoma patients using the M2 macrophage immune cell infiltration score in conjunction with clinical tumor patient data. We built a prognostic model based on the distinctive genes of M2 macrophages and combined it with patients’ clinical data in the database; we ran a survival prognostic analysis to authenticate the model’s accuracy. The functional study revealed the importance of macrophage-associated genes in the development of uveal melanoma. Moreover, the reliability of our prediction model was verified by combining tumor mutational load, immune checkpoint, and drug sensitivity, respectively. Our study provides a reference for the follow-up study of uveal melanoma.
Characteristics of DNA macro-alterations in breast cancer with liver metastasis before treatment
Authors: Fan Yu , Zou Linglin , Zhong Xiaorong , Wang Zhu , Wang Yu , Luo Chuanxu , Zheng Hong , Wang Yanping
Published: July 2023

Background

Whole-genome doubling (WGD) has been observed in 30% of cancers, followed by a highly complex rearranged karyotype unfavourable to breast cancer's outcome. However, the macro-alterations that characterise liver metastasis in breast cancer(BC) are poorly understood. Here, we conducted a whole-genome sequencing analysis of liver metastases to explore the status and the time frame model of these macro-alterations in pre-treatment patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Results

Whole-genome sequencing was conducted in 11 paired primary tumours, lymph node metastasis, and liver metastasis fresh samples from four patients with late-stage breast cancer. We also chose five postoperative frozen specimens from patients with early-stage breast cancer before any treatment as control. Surprisingly, all four liver metastasis samples were classified as WGD + . However, the previous study reported that WGD happened in 30% of cancers and 2/5 in our early-stage samples. WGD was not observed in the two separate primary tumours and one lymph node metastasis of one patient with metastatic BC, but her liver metastasis showed an early burst of bi-allelic copy number gain. The phylogenetic tree proves her 4 tumour samples were the polyclonal origin and only one WGD + clone metastasis to the liver. Another 3 metastatic BC patients’ primary tumour and lymph node metastasis experienced WGD as well as liver metastasis, and they all showed similar molecular time-frame of copy number(CN) gain across locations within the same patient. These patients’ tumours were of monoclonal origin, and WGD happened in a founding clone before metastasis, explaining that all samples share the CN-gain time frame.

After WGD, the genomes usually face instability to evolve other macro-alterations. For example, a greater quantity and variety of complex structural variations (SVs) were detected in WGD + samples. The breakpoints were enriched in the chr17: 39 Mb-40 Mb tile, which contained the HER2 gene, resulting in the formation of tyfonas, breakage-fusion-bridge cycles, and double minutes. These complex SVs may be involved in the evolutionary mechanisms of the dramatic increase of HER2 copy number.

Conclusion

Our work revealed that the WGD + clone might be a critical evolution step for liver metastasis and favoured following complex SV of breast cancer.
The effect of specimen processing time on HER2 expression in gastric cancer and esophagogastric junction cancer: a single-center retrospective observational study
Authors: Yanagimoto Yoshitomo , Imamura Hiroshi , Adachi Shiro , Odagiri Kazuki , Kawase Tomono , Yamashita Masafumi , Takeyama Hiroshi , Suzuki Yozo , Ikenaga Masakazu , Shimizu Junzo , Tomita Naohiro , Dono Keizo
Published: July 2023

Background

Recent developments in the field of companion diagnosis and molecular-targeting therapeutic agents have helped in developing treatments targeting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) in gastric cancer (GC) and esophagogastric junction cancer (EGJC), and the importance of accurate diagnosis of HER2 expression is increasing. However, the HER2-positivity rate significantly differs among reports in GC and EGJC, and factors that affect HER2-positivity require elucidation.

Methods

The present study retrospectively examined factors related to HER2-positivity in a single institution, including age, sex, body mass index, the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, tumor information, and surgery information, including time to specimen processing.

Results

Our study included 165 patients tested for HER2 using GC and EGJC surgery specimens among the 1,320 patients who underwent gastrectomy from January 2007 to June 2022. In total, 35 (21.2%) and 130 (78.8%) patients were HER2-positive and -negative, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that intestinal type (odds ratio [OR]: 3.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44–8.09, p = 0.005), pM1 (OR: 3.99, 95% CI: 1.51–10.55, p = 0.005), and time to specimen processing of < 120 min (OR: 2.65, 95% CI: 1.01–6.98, p = 0.049) were independent factors that affected HER2-positivity.

Conclusions

The outcomes of the present study indicated that intestinal type, pM, and time to specimen processing are important factors affecting HER2-positive rates in GC and EGJC. Therefore, the risk of false-negative HER2 results may be reduced by decreasing the time required to process the resected specimen. Additionally, accurate diagnosis of HER2 expression may increase the opportunity to administer molecular-targeted drugs that can expect therapeutic effects to patients appropriately.

Trail registration

Retrospectively registered.
Plasma and aqueous levels of subfatin, preptin and betatrophin in patients with diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Güngör Kobat Sabiha , Gül Fatih Cem , Çelik Fatih , Liman Uzun Seda , Kobat Mehmet Ali , Akkoç Ramazan Fazıl , Aydın Süleyman
Published: July 2023

Aim

To examine subfatin, preptin and betatrophin levels in plasma and aqueous in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) (with and without retinopathy).

Material and method

Sixty patients, who were similar in terms of age and gender, and were scheduled for operation due to cataract, were included in the study. The patients were divided into three groups as Group C (20 weeks without diabetes and comorbidity), Group DM (20 patients with DM but no retinopathy) and Group DR (20 patients with diabetic retinopathy). The preoperative body mass index (BMI), fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile levels of all patients in the groups were examined. Blood samples were also taken for plasma subfatin, preptin and betatrophin levels. At the beginning of the cataract surgery, 0.1 ml of aqueous fluid was taken from the anterior chamber. Plasma and aqueous subfatin, preptin and betatrophin levels were analyzed by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays) method.

Results

In our study results, there was a significant difference in BMI, fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin A1c levels (p < 0.05 for all parameters). Plasma and aqueous subfatin levels were higher in Group DR compared to Group C (p < 0.001, p = 0.036, respectively). Plasma and aqueous preptin levels were higher in group DR and group DM than in group C (p = 0.001, p = 0.002, p < 0.001, p = 0.001, respectively). Plasma and aqueous betatrophin levels were higher in Group DR compared to group C (p = 0.001, p = 0.010, respectively).

Conclusion

Subfatin, preptin and betatrophin molecules may have an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for CYBB heterozygous mutation resulting in very early onset inflammatory bowel disease in children: a case report
Authors: Li Zhiling , Chen Huan , Feng Xiaoqin , Ruan Yongsheng , Yang Min
Published: July 2023

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a heterogeneous group of disorders associated with environmental triggers and dysregulated immune responses resulting in chronic, recurrent intestinal inflammation. Very early-onset IBD (VEO-IBD) refers to patients with symptoms or diagnosis before the age of 6 years and is widely thought to be associated with monogenic mutations. Traditional drug therapy is often ineffective in this patient population, while hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) represents the definitive cure for patients with gene mutations.

Case presentation

We report a case of VEO-IBD associated with a monogenic mutation in a 2-year-old girl presenting mainly with gastrointestinal symptoms, including recurrent hematochezia and abdominal pain for more than 3 months. A gastroscopy revealed erosive gastritis and bulbar duodenitis, while a colonoscopy indicated erosive colitis. Abnormal results were obtained from the dihydrohodamine (DHR) assay and immunoglobulin testing. Whole-exome sequencing identified a heterozygous and de novo nonsense mutation (c.388 C > T; p.R130X) in the CYBB gene leading to deficiency of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 2 (NOX2) (encoded by CYBB), a critical component of phagocytes. HSCT was performed successfully, and the DHR assay showed that normal neutrophil function was restored. Six months after HSCT, clinical remission was observed, and a repeat colonoscopy revealed intestinal mucosal healing was attained.

Conclusions

Patients with CYBB mutations often develop recurrent or severe bacterial or fungal infections, mostly in the lungs, skin, lymph nodes, and liver. Here, we report on a young female child with CYBB mutations presenting predominantly with gastrointestinal symptoms. This study explores the mechanisms of inflammatory bowel disease caused by a monogenic mutation in CYBB to improve early diagnosis and effective treatment rates of this patient population.
Bacterium detected by gram stain and drug sensitivity in Chinese children with acute sinusitis
Authors: Li Yan , Zeng Yinhui , Xiao Haiqing , Liu Wenlong
Published: July 2023

Background

Acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) is one of the common diseases of upper respiratory tract infection in children. Bacterial infection is a significant aggravating factor in pediatric ARS. In this research, our goal was to detected the bacterial flora and antibiotic sensitivity of ARS in Chinese children.

Methods

We recruited 133 children with ARS between January 2020 and January 2022 from our hospital. Sinus secretion were collected and cultured for Gram stain as well as antimicrobial susceptibility tests.

Results

Moraxella catarrhalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were detected in order in children with ARS, of which 25% were negative for bacterial culture and 10% were positive for two strains. Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium were useful for Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Moraxella catarrhalis. Quinolones are useful for Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Conclusions

This research updates the proportion of ARS bacterial infection in children in southern China and the antibiotic sensitivity.
Public health priorities for Sino-Africa cooperation in Eastern Africa in context of flooding and malaria burden in Children: a tridecadal retrospective analysis
Authors: Balikuddembe Joseph Kimuli , Reinhardt Jan D. , Zeng Wen , Tola Habteyes , Di Baofeng
Published: July 2023

Background

Malaria remains a major public health burden to children under five, especially in Eastern Africa (E.A), —a region that is also witnessing the increasing occurrence of floods and extreme climate change. The present study, therefore, explored the trends in floods, as well as the association of their occurrence and duration with the malaria incidence in children < 5 years in five E.A partner countries of Forum for China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), including Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, and Tanzania between 1990 and 2019.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of data retrieved from two global sources was performed: the Emergency Events Database (EM-DAT) and the Global Burden of Diseases Study (GBD) between 1990 and 2019. Using SPSS 20.0, a correlation was determined based on ρ= -1 to + 1, as well as the statistical significance of P = < 0.05. Time plots of trends in flooding and malaria incidence were generated in 3 different decades using R version 4.0.

Results

Between 1990 and 2019, the occurrence and duration of floods among the five E.A partner countries of FOCAC increased and showed an upward trend. On the contrary, however, this had an inverse and negative, as well as a weak correlation on the malaria incidence in children under five years. Only Kenya, among the five countries, showed a perfect negative correction of malaria incidence in children under five with flood occurrence (ρ = -0.586**, P-value = 0.001) and duration (ρ = -0.657**, P-value = < 0.0001).

Conclusions

This study highlights the need for further research to comprehensively explore how different climate extreme events, which oftentimes complement floods, might be influencing the risk of malaria in children under five in five E.A malaria-endemic partner countries of FOCAC. Similarly, it ought to consider investigating the influence of other attributes apart from flood occurrence and duration, which also compound floods like displacement, malnutrition, and water, sanitation and hygiene on the risk and distribution of malaria and other climate-sensitive diseases.
Validation of the recording of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in routinely collected electronic healthcare records in England
Authors: Morgan Ann , Gupta Rikisha Shah , George Peter M. , Quint Jennifer K.
Published: July 2023

Background

Routinely-collected healthcare data provide a valuable resource for epidemiological research. Validation studies have shown that for most conditions, simple lists of clinical codes can reliably be used for case finding in primary care, however, studies exploring the robustness of this approach are lacking for diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) which are largely managed in secondary care.

Method

Using the UK’s Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) Aurum dataset, which comprises patient-level primary care records linked to national hospital admissions and cause-of-death data, we compared the positive predictive value (PPV) of eight diagnostic algorithms. Algorithms were developed based on the literature and IPF diagnostic guidelines using combinations of clinical codes in primary and secondary care (SNOMED-CT or ICD-10) with/without additional information. The positive predictive value (PPV) was estimated for each algorithm using the death record as the gold standard. Utilization of the reviewed codes across the study period was observed to evaluate any change in coding practices over time.

Result

A total of 17,559 individuals had a least one record indicative of IPF in one or more of our three linked datasets between 2008 and 2018. The PPV of case-finding algorithms based on clinical codes alone ranged from 64.4% (95%CI:63.3–65.3) for a “broad” codeset to 74.9% (95%CI:72.8–76.9) for a “narrow” codeset comprising highly-specific codes. Adding confirmatory evidence, such as a CT scan, increased the PPV of our narrow code-based algorithm to 79.2% (95%CI:76.4–81.8) but reduced the sensitivity to under 10%. Adding evidence of hospitalisation to the standalone code-based algorithms also improved PPV, (PPV = 78.4 vs. 64.4%; sensitivity = 53.5% vs. 38.1%). IPF coding practices changed over time, with the increased use of specific IPF codes.

Conclusion

High diagnostic validity was achieved by using a restricted set of IPF codes. While adding confirmatory evidence increased diagnostic accuracy, the benefits of this approach need to be weighed against the inevitable loss of sample size and convenience. We would recommend use of an algorithm based on a broader IPF code set coupled with evidence of hospitalisation.
CircZNF367 promotes osteoclast differentiation and osteoporosis by interacting with FUS to maintain CRY2 mRNA stability
Authors: Deng Mingsi , Wang Zhengguang , Luo Jia , Cao Heng , Li Yong , Chen Liangjian , Liu Gengyan
Published: July 2023

Background

Osteoporosis, characterized by reduced bone mass and deterioration of bone quality, is a significant health concern for postmenopausal women. Considering that the specific role of circRNAs in osteoporosis and osteoclast differentiation remains poorly understood, this study aims to shed light on their involvement in these processes to enhance our understanding and potentially contribute to improved treatment strategies for osteoporosis.

Methods

An osteoporotic model was constructed in vivo in ovariectomized mouse. In vitro, we induced osteoclast formation in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) using M-CSF + RANKL. To assess osteoporosis in mice, we conducted HE staining. We used MTT and TRAP staining to measure cell viability and osteoclast formation, respectively, and also evaluated their mRNA and protein expression levels. In addition, RNA pull-down, RIP and luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate interactions, and ChIP assay was used to examine the impact of circZNF367 knockdown on the binding between FUS and CRY2.

Results

We observed increased expression of CircZNF367, FUS and CRY2 in osteoporotic mice and M-CSF + RANKL-induced BMDMs. Functionally, knocking down circZNF367 inhibited osteoporosis in vivo. Furthermore, interference with circZNF367 suppressed osteoclast proliferation and the expression of TRAP, NFATc1, and c-FOS. Mechanistically, circZNF367 interacted with FUS to maintain CRY2 mRNA stability. Additionally, knocking down CRY2 rescued M-CSF + RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation in BMDMs promoted by circZNF367 and FUS.

Conclusion

This study reveals that the circZNF367/FUS axis may accelerate osteoclasts differentiation by upregulating CRY2 in osteoporosis and suggests that targeting circZNF367 may have potential therapeutic effects on osteoporosis.