bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New insights on multigenic autoinflammatory diseases
Authors: Efthimiou Petros , Petryna Olga , Nakasato Priscila , Kontzias Apostolos
Published: September 2022

Autoinflammatory diseases are disorders of the innate immune system, which can be either monogenic due to a specific genetic mutation or complex multigenic due to the involvement of multiple genes. The aim of this review is to explore and summarize the recent advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of genetically complex autoinflammatory diseases, such as Schnitzler’s syndrome; adult-onset Still’s disease; synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis syndrome/chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis/chronic non-bacterial osteomyelitis; Adamantiades-Behçet’s disease; Yao syndrome; and periodic fever with aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and adenitis syndrome. The PubMed database was screened for relevant articles using free text words and specific search strings. The search was limited to English-language articles, reporting the results of studies in humans, published through March 2021. Evidence from literature suggest that these rare multigenic autoinflammatory diseases can present with different clinical features and the diagnosis of these diseases can be challenging due to a combination of nonspecific manifestations that can be seen in a variety of other conditions. Diagnostic delays and disease complications may occur due to low disease awareness and the lack of pathognomonic markers. The pathogeneses of these diseases are complex and in some cases precise pathogenesis is not clearly understood. Conventional treatments are commonly used for the management of these conditions, but biologics have shown promising results. Biologics targeting proinflammatory cytokines including IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-17A and IL-18 have been shown to ameliorate signs and symptoms of different multigenic autoinflammatory diseases.
The NIDDK Diabetic Foot Consortium
Authors: Jones Teresa L.Z. , Holmes Crystal M. , Katona Aimee , Martin Catherine L. , Niewczas Monika A. , Pop-Busui Rodica , Schmidt Brian M. , Sen Chandan K. , Tomic-Canic Marjana , Veves Aristidis
Published: September 2022

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) Diabetic Foot Consortium (DFC) was established in September 2018 by the NIDDK to build an organization to facilitate the highest quality of clinical research on diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) that will answer clinically significant questions to improve DFU healing and prevent amputations. The initial focus of the DFC is to develop and validate biomarkers for DFUs that can be used in clinical care and research. The DFC consists of a data coordinating center (DCC) for operational oversight and statistical analysis, clinical sites for participant recruitment and evaluation, and biomarker analysis units (BAUs). The DFC is currently studying biomarkers to predict wound healing and recurrence and is collecting biosamples for future studies through a biorepository. The DFC plans to address the challenges of recruitment and eligibility criteria for DFU clinical trials by taking an approach of “No DFU Patient Goes Unstudied.” In this platform approach, clinical history, DFU outcome, wound imaging, and biologic measurements from a large number of patients will be captured and the in-depth longitudinal data set will be analyzed to develop a computational-based DFU risk factor profile to facilitate scientifically sound clinical trial design. The DFC will expand its platform to include studies of the role of social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, housing instability, limited health literacy, and poor social support. The DFC is starting partnerships with the broad group of stakeholders in the wound care community.
The German Fast Track Toward Reimbursement of Digital Health Applications: Opportunities and Challenges for Manufacturers, Healthcare Providers, and People With Diabetes
Authors: Schliess Freimut , Affini Dicenzo Tatiana , Gaus Nandor , Bourez Jean-Marc , Stegbauer Constance , Szecsenyi Joachim , Jacobsen Malte , Müller-Wieland Dirk , Kulzer Bernhard , Heinemann Lutz
Published: September 2022

Background: Digital health applications (DiGA) supporting the management of diabetes are among the most commonly available digital health technologies. However, transparent quality assurance of DiGA and clinical proof of a positive healthcare effect is often missing, which creates skepticism of some stakeholders regarding the usage and reimbursement of these applications. Methods: This article reviews the recently established fast-track integration of DiGA in the German reimbursement market, with emphasis on the current impact for manufacturers, healthcare providers, and people with diabetes. The German DiGA fast track is contextualised with corresponding initiatives in Europe. Results: The option of a provisional prescription and reimbursement of DiGA while proving a positive healthcare effect in parallel may expedite the adoption of DiGA in Germany and beyond. However, hurdles for a permanent prescription and reimbursement of DiGA are high and only one of 12 that have achieved this status specifically addresses people with diabetes. Conclusion: The DiGA fast track needs to be further enhanced to cope with remaining skepticism and contribute even more to a value-based diabetes care.
High-throughput, real-time monitoring of engineered skeletal muscle function using magnetic sensing
Authors: Smith Alec ST , Luttrell Shawn M , Dupont Jean-Baptiste , Gray Kevin , Lih Daniel , Fleming Jacob W , Cunningham Nathan J , Jepson Sofia , Hesson Jennifer , Mathieu Julie , Maves Lisa , Berry Bonnie J , Fisher Elliot C , Sniadecki Nathan J , Geisse Nicholas A , Mack David L
Published: September 2022

Engineered muscle tissues represent powerful tools for examining tissue level contractile properties of skeletal muscle. However, limitations in the throughput associated with standard analysis methods limit their utility for longitudinal study, high throughput drug screens, and disease modeling. Here we present a method for integrating 3D engineered skeletal muscles with a magnetic sensing system to facilitate non-invasive, longitudinal analysis of developing contraction kinetics. Using this platform, we show that engineered skeletal muscle tissues derived from both induced pluripotent stem cell and primary sources undergo improvements in contractile output over time in culture. We demonstrate how magnetic sensing of contractility can be employed for simultaneous assessment of multiple tissues subjected to different doses of known skeletal muscle inotropes as well as the stratification of healthy versus diseased functional profiles in normal and dystrophic muscle cells. Based on these data, this combined culture system and magnet-based contractility platform greatly broadens the potential for 3D engineered skeletal muscle tissues to impact the translation of novel therapies from the lab to the clinic.
Latent profile analysis of schizotypy, autistic traits and conspiracy theory beliefs: Associations with cognitive flexibility and scientific reasoning performance
Authors: Georgiou Neophytos , Delfabbro Paul , Balzan Ryan
Published: September 2022

Schizotypal and autistic traits have both been implicated in the development of conspiracy theory (CT) beliefs. However, there are both similarities and differences between these traits that may increase an individual’s susceptibility to CT beliefs. Past research has often taken a variable-centred approach which assumes that the relationships among distinct variables (i.e. schizotypy, autistic traits) are homogenous. Given these circumstances, Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was used to assess the extent to which within-individual variation in schizotypal, autistic traits and associated socio-cognitive tendencies are associated with CT beliefs, cognitive flexibility, and scientific reasoning performance. In a sample of 565 adults, five distinct classes were identified. Those with the lowest clinical scores (Class 1) had the highest scientific reasoning and lowest level of CT beliefs, whilst those with the highest clinical scores (Class 4 and 5), had the lowest scientific reasoning and highest CT belief scores. Further analysis revealed some evidence for mixed groups (e.g. Class 4) in which higher analytical reasoning scores co-occurred with higher CT beliefs, but lower scientific reasoning scores. The results did not provide evidence that higher autistic traits independently predicted CT beliefs, but the results support the view that scientific reasoning appears to better differentiate variation in CT beliefs across groups than differences in analytical reasoning.
Investigation of Financial Literacy and Money Attitudes Among First-Year Undergraduate Accounting Students: A Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy-Based Coaching Intervention
Authors: Ajayi Tijani Ahmed , Ugwoke Obioma Vivian , Onyeanu Edith Ogomegbunam , Ugwoke Robinson Onuora , Onuorah Adaorah R.
Published: September 2022

As soon as they are admitted to a university, most students become responsible for their own finances, but because of a lack of parental supervision, they are more inclined to spend than to manage their money. A study of first-year undergraduate accounting students was conducted to examine the effects of rational emotive behavior therapy-based coaching (REBT-based coaching) intervention on their financial literacy and money attitudes. Thirty first-year undergraduates studying accounting at Nigerian public universities participated in this two-group randomized trial. About 15 first-year undergraduate accounting students participated in the online REBT-based coaching group, while 15 first-year undergraduate accounting students participated in the face-to-face control group. A repeated measures analysis of variance was performed on the study data at .05 probability level. The study found that the online REBT-based coaching intervention significantly improved the financial literacy and money attitudes of first-year undergraduate accounting students in a similar way to face-to-face REBT-based coaching intervention. The follow-up results for the online REBT-based coaching intervention 1 month later showed a similar trend of increasing students’ financial literacy and money attitude scores similar to what was observed in the face-to-face coaching group. There was no significant difference between students in the online and face-to-face modes regarding satisfaction with REBT-based coaching interventions they received. As a result of the findings, the researchers propose developing coaching approaches that can help students gain insight into their financial actions and knowledge, which will likely improve financial literacy and money attitudes in the future.
Porous 3D Printed Titanium Cages in Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion are Associated With Less Subsidence, Improved Maintenance of Segmental Lordotic Correction, and Similar Clinical Outcomes as Allograft
Authors: Singh Hardeep , Kukowski Nathan R. , Lunati Matthew P. , Dawes Alexander , Kim Chi Heon , Kim Sungkyu , Rhee John M.
Published: September 2022

Study-Design

Retrospective chart review.

Objectives

Investigate radiographic and clinical outcomes of 3D printed titanium cages (3DTC) vs allograft in patients undergoing Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

Methods

Consecutive series of patients undergoing ACDF with 3DTC were compared to patients using corticocancellous allograft. Cage subsidence, fusion status, sagittal alignment, and patient-reported-outcomes. Radiographic evaluation was performed on the closing intraoperative x-ray and compared to films at 6-weeks, 6-months, and 1-year. Cage subsidence was calculated based on the amount of settling into superior and inferior endplates compared to the intraoperative x-ray. Fusion was assessed based on < 1 mm of flexion/extension motion. Sagittal alignment parameters and patient-reported-outcomes were measured.

Results

Seventy six-patients/(120 levels) in 3DTC group and 77-patients/(115 levels) in allograft group were evaluated. No significant differences were noted in patient demographics, level fused or the number of levels fused between the groups. The most common level fused was C5-6. 3DTC had a significantly lower subsidence rate at all-time points as compared to allograft ( P < .001). 3DTC maintained segmental lordosis better than allograft at all-time points including 1-year postop ( P < .001). No significant differences were noted in fusion rate for 3DTC vs allograft at 6-months ( P > .05). There were no significant differences in patient-reported-outcomes.

Conclusion

3D printed titanium cages had similar patient-reported outcomes and fusion rates as allograft, but less subsidence at all-time points. 3D printed titanium cages better maintained the segmental lordosis at the operative level at all-time points. Although longer term evaluation is needed, based on these results, 3DTC appear to be viable graft options for ACDF that better maintain disc space height and improve segmental lordotic interbody correction.
Marked as Homeless: Reconciling with Ambiguities about Housing Status in Death Records
Authors: Greene R. Neil
Published: September 2022

Research on the process of classification has long revealed biases and limitations embedded within social data. Expanding or contracting definitions of homelessness and the perception of housing status as relevant information play a large part in data and knowledge about homelessness. The author explores how homelessness is conceptualized and documented (or not documented) within death records through the use of qualitative interviews with field investigators ( n = 20) who attend and document circumstances related to suspicious deaths in New Mexico. The findings reveal uncertainty in marking a person as homeless that is newly described as labeling ambivalence, which can be resolved more systematically through a process of increasing social mattering in which the social determinants of health are accentuated as factors related to premature mortality. The findings suggest important considerations for more systematically describing housing status and other indicators of the social determinants of health within social records.
Emergency Department Visits for Ankle Fractures Through COVID-19: An Analysis of the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System
Authors: Mo Kevin , Gupta Arjun , Singh Priya , Malan Samuel , McDaniel Claire , Thompson John M. , Aiyer Amiethab
Published: September 2022

Background:

Societal changes that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered the epidemiology of ankle fractures. The aim of this study was to assess trends in emergency department visits for ankle fractures from 2019 to 2020 in the United States.

Methods:

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database is a sample of hospitals in the United States stratified and weighted based on emergency department (ED) size, which was used to generate national estimates (NEs). The NEISS database was queried for patients who sustained an ankle fracture. Patients before COVID-19 (BC) (July 2019–December 2019) were compared to those during COVID-19 (DC) (July 2020–December 2020).

Results:

This study assessed 3350 (NE: 131,672) patients. Of these, 1683 (NE: 67,292) patients presented BC and 1667 (NE: 64,380) DC, representing a 4% decrease. The rate of alcohol-related ankle fractures increased (1.9% BC vs 2.6% DC; P < .001). The fraction of ankle fractures at school (3% BC vs 0.7% DC; P < .001) and during sports (19% BC vs 14% DC; P < .001) decreased. ED visits for ankle fracture leading to hospitalization marginally increased (23% BC vs 24% DC). The top 3 ankle fracture causes during COVID-19 were stairs (NE: 18,026, 28%), floors (ie, falling on floor) (NE: 4635, 7.2%), and skateboards (NE: 2832, 4.40%). The 3 largest increases in ankle fracture causes during COVID-19 were skateboards (+2.80%), floors (+1.10%), and powered scooters (+0.80%).

Conclusion:

There was a decrease in ankle fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the year before. Alcohol-related fractures increased as did fractures resulting in hospitalization. Ankle fractures caused by skateboards, powered scooters, and mopeds increased during COVID-19, whereas fewer occurred in school or during sports, consistent with restrictions to group activities. These findings may aid in proper health care budgeting in times of national and global crises.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
On the feasibility of using canals for waste collection in Amsterdam
Authors: Zhang Snoweria , Duarte Fábio , Guo Xuezhen , Johnsen Lenna , van de Ketterij Ruben , Ratti Carlo
Published: September 2022

Amsterdam, a growing city of over 800,000 people in the Netherlands, is struggling to collect waste. While residents in most districts of the city use underground bins to deposit their garbage, the historic Centrum district continues to rely on curbside collection. As such, the streets around the UNESCO-World-Heritage canals are lined with garbage bags as trash trucks rumble down roads centuries old and ill-fitted for vehicles of such size. This paper assesses the viability of moving Centrum trash collection to the canals with a fleet of tug boats and floating dumpsters. It does so by using a combination of GIS tools and integer programming to determine the quantity and optimal collection locations while ensuring that an average Centrum resident walks no farther than denizens of the other Amsterdam districts. Additionally, it proposes a schedule for emptying floating dumpsters based on one comparable to the current truck system. The results of this paper suggest that mobile trash collection using the canals is a viable solution that could reduce noise, pollution, and congestion, thus improving the quality of Amsterdam’s historic cityscape.
Teaching Composition in a Middle School Orchestra Classroom: A Narrative Action Research Study
Authors: Tsugawa Samuel , Voght Marcus
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this narrative action research study was to tell Marcus’s story as an ensemble director learning how to teach composition in his middle school orchestra program. Marcus collaborated with Sam, a university professor, and designed a study to examine his teaching in his 49-member advanced orchestra class. As time passed, the focus of the study shifted from examining the specific elements of Marcus’s curriculum to the inclusion of changes in the creative culture of his program. In response to this shift, we used a narrative inquiry approach to understand how Marcus’s teaching story unfolded. Transcripts of his video journal, research meetings, and student focus group interviews helped Marcus improve his teaching and develop his curriculum. As co-narrators of this story, we used different font styles to identify whose voice is in the foreground.
Genomic patterns of divergence in the early and late steps of speciation of the deep-sea vent thermophilic worms of the genus Alvinella
Authors: Thomas-Bulle Camille , Bertrand Denis , Nagarajan Niranjan , Copley Richard R. , Corre Erwan , Hourdez Stéphane , Bonnivard Éric , Claridge-Chang Adam , Jollivet Didier
Published: September 2022

Background

The transient and fragmented nature of the deep-sea hydrothermal environment made of ridge subduction, plate collision and the emergence of new rifts is currently acting to separate of vent populations, promoting local adaptation and contributing to bursts of speciation and species specialization. The tube-dwelling wormsAlvinella pompejanacalled the Pompeii worm and its sister speciesA. caudatalive syntopically on the hottest part of deep-sea hydrothermal chimneys along the East Pacific Rise. They are exposed to extreme thermal and chemical gradients, which vary greatly in space and time, and thus represent ideal candidates for understanding the evolutionary mechanisms at play in the vent fauna evolution.

Results

We explored genomic patterns of divergence in the early and late stages of speciation of these emblematic worms using transcriptome assemblies and the first draft genome to better understand the relative role of geographic isolation and habitat preference in their genome evolution. Analyses were conducted on allopatric populations ofAlvinella pompejana(early stage of separation) and betweenA. pompejanaand its syntopic speciesAlvinella caudata(late stage of speciation). We first identified divergent genomic regions and targets of selection as well as their position in the genome over collections of orthologous genes and, then, described the speciation dynamics by documenting the annotation of the most divergent and/or positively selected genes involved in the isolation process. Gene mapping clearly indicated that divergent genes associated with the early stage of speciation, although accounting for nearly 30% of genes, are highly scattered in the genome without any island of divergence and not involved in gamete recognition or mito-nuclear incompatibilities. By contrast, genomes ofA. pompejanaandA. caudataare clearly separated with nearly all genes (96%) exhibiting high divergence. This congealing effect however seems to be linked to habitat specialization and still allows positive selection on genes involved in gamete recognition, as a possible long-duration process of species reinforcement.

Conclusion

Our analyses highlight the non-negligible role of natural selection on both the early and late stages of speciation in the iconic thermophilic worms living on the walls of deep-sea hydrothermal chimneys. They shed light on the evolution of gene divergence during the process of speciation and species specialization over a very long period of time.
Structural variants and tandem repeats in the founder individuals of four F2 pig crosses and implications to F2 GWAS results
Authors: Blaj Iulia , Tetens Jens , Bennewitz Jörn , Thaller Georg , Falker-Gieske Clemens
Published: September 2022

Background

Structural variants and tandem repeats are relevant sources of genomic variation that are not routinely analyzed in genome wide association studies mainly due to challenging identification and genotyping. Here, we profiled these variants via state-of-the-art strategies in the founder animals of four F2pig crosses using whole-genome sequence data (20x coverage). The variants were compared at a founder level with the commonly screened SNPs and small indels. At the F2level, we carried out an association study using imputed structural variants and tandem repeats with four growth and carcass traits followed by a comparison with a previously conducted SNPs and small indels based association study.

Results

A total of 13,201 high confidence structural variants and 103,730 polymorphic tandem repeats (with a repeat length of 2-20 bp) were profiled in the founders. We observed a moderate to high (rfrom 0.48 to 0.57) level of co-localization between SNPs or small indels and structural variants or tandem repeats. In the association step 56.56% of the significant variants were not in high LD with significantly associated SNPs and small indels identified for the same traits in the earlier study and thus presumably not tagged in case of a standard association study. For the four growth and carcass traits investigated, many of the already proposed candidate genes in our previous studies were confirmed and additional ones were identified. Interestingly, a common pattern on how structural variants or tandem repeats regulate the phenotypic traits emerged. Many of the significant variants were embedded or nearby long non-coding RNAs drawing attention to their functional importance. Through which specific mechanisms the identified long non-coding RNAs and their associated structural variants or tandem repeats contribute to quantitative trait variation will need further investigation.

Conclusions

The current study provides insights into the characteristics of structural variants and tandem repeats and their role in association studies. A systematic incorporation of these variants into genome wide association studies is advised. While not of immediate interest for genomic prediction purposes, this will be particularly beneficial for elucidating biological mechanisms driving the complex trait variation.
Integrated analysis of the expression profiles of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network in granulosa and cumulus cells from yak ovaries
Authors: Zhao Ling , Pan Yangyang , Wang Meng , Wang Junqian , Wang Yaying , Han Xiaohong , Wang Jinglei , Zhang Tongxiang , Zhao Tian , He Honghong , Cui Yan , Yu Sijiu
Published: September 2022

Background

Growing oocytes acquire the ability to mature through two-way communication between gametes and surrounding somatic cumulus cells (CCs). Granulosa cells (GCs) support oocyte growth, regulate meiosis progression, and modulate global oocyte transcription activity. However, the proliferation and differentiation of the yak ovary in GCs and CCs remain unclear. To characterize the important roles of long non-coding RNA, (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA), whole-transcriptome analysis was performed. Real-time quantitative fluorescence PCR was performed to verify the selected RNA sequences.

Results

Important gene ontology terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways related to differentiation and oocyte development were identified for the target genes of differentially expressed lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs. In total,6223 mRNAs (2197 upregulated, 4026 downregulated), 643 lncRNAs (204 upregulated, 479 downregulated), and 559 miRNAs (311 upregulated, 248 downregulated) were significantly altered between the two groups. Target genes involved in cell adhesion, cell differentiation, regulation of developmental processes, cell proliferation, embryo development, signal transduction, apoptosis, and aromatic compound biosynthetic processes were significantly enriched. These RNAs were involved in ECM-receptor interaction, MAPK signaling, Hippo signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling, cell cycle, cell adhesion, leukocyte trans-endothelial migration, and actin cytoskeleton regulation.

Conclusions

A comprehensive analysis of the co-expression network of competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) will facilitate the understanding of the process of granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation and offer a theoretical basis for the development of oocytes.
QTL associated with Gummy Stem Blight (GSB) resistance in watermelon
Authors: Hong Jeong-Eui , Hossain Mohammad Rashed , Jung Hee-Jeong , Nou Ill-Sup
Published: September 2022

Background

Gummy stem blight (GSB), caused by Didymella bryoniae (syn. Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum), produces devastating symptoms on whole plants of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and other cucurbits, significantly reducing yield and quality. Identification of genetic determinants and sources of resistance to this devastating GSB disease in watermelon is essential for developing resistant varieties.

Results

In this study, we aimed at identifying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) linked to GSB resistance in melon. We identified the genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) by genotyping by sequencing (GBS) of an F2 population developed from C. lanatus lines, ‘PI 279461’ (resistant) ✕ ‘PI 223764’ (susceptible). Inheritance analysis indicated that resistance to GSB is a multi-genic trait in this population. Three QTLs namely, ClGSB1.1, ClGSB10.1, and ClGSB11.1 associated with GSB resistance, explaining approximately 10% of the phenotypic variation, were identified. Among these, the QTL ClGSB1.1 on chromosome 1 is identified as a major QTL harboring five candidate genes associated with GSB resistance including two RLKs (ClC01G014900 and ClC01G015010), two WRKY transcription factors (ClC01G014910 and ClC01G014990), and one AvrRpt-cleavage domain protein (ClC01G015130).

Conclusion

Two high resolution melting (HRM) markers, WmGSB1.1–2 and WmGSB1.1–7 having a high positive correlation with the phenotypic variations, were developed. Five potential candidate genes were predicted to be associated with GSB resistance. These findings will help breeders to develop watermelon cultivars resistant to GSB.
Circulating plasma galectin-3 predicts new-onset atrial fibrillation in patients after acute myocardial infarction during hospitalization
Authors: Wang Qianhui , Huai Wei , Ye Xiaoguang , Pan Yuxia , Yang Xinchun , Chen Mulei , Ma Qing-Bian , Gao Yuanfeng , Zhang Yuan
Published: September 2022

Background

New-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) is a common complication in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) during hospitalization. Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a novel inflammation marker that is significantly associated with AF. The association between post-AMI NOAF and Gal-3 during hospitalization is yet unclear.

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the predictive value of plasma Gal-3 for post-AMI NOAF.

Methods

A total of 217 consecutive patients admitted with AMI were included in this retrospective study. Peripheral venous blood samples were obtained within 24 h after admission and plasma Gal-3 concentrations were measured.

Results

Post-AMI NOAF occurred in 18 patients in this study. Patients with NOAF were older (p < 0.001) than those without. A higher level of the peak brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (p < 0.001) and Gal-3 (p < 0.001) and a lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (LDL-C) (p = 0.030), and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (e-GFR) (p = 0.030) were recorded in patients with post-AMI NOAF. Echocardiographic information revealed that patients with NOAF had a significantly decreased left ventricular eject fraction (LVEF) (p < 0.001) and an increased left atrial diameter (LAD) (p = 0.004) than those without NOAF. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed a significantly higher value of plasma Gal-3 in the diagnosis of NOAF for patients with AMI during hospitalization (area under the curve (p < 0.001), with a sensitivity of 72.22% and a specificity of 72.22%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression model analysis indicated that age (p = 0.045), plasma Gal-3 (p = 0.018), and LAD (p = 0.014) were independent predictors of post-MI NOAF.

Conclusions

Plasma Gal-3 concentration is an independent predictor of post-MI NOAF.
Circulating biomarker correlates of left atrial size and myocardial extracellular volume fraction among persons living with and without HIV
Authors: Peterson Tess E. , Landon Christian , Haberlen Sabina A. , Bhondoekhan Fiona , Plankey Michael W. , Palella Frank J. , Piggott Damani A. , Margolick Joseph B. , Brown Todd T. , Post Wendy S. , Wu Katherine C.
Published: September 2022

Background

Infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with higher risk for myocardial disease despite modern combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Factors contributing to this excess risk, however, remain poorly characterized. We aimed to assess cross-sectional relationships between elevations of left atrial volume index (LAVI) and myocardial extracellular volume (ECV) fraction that have been reported in persons living with HIV and levels of circulating biomarkers of inflammation, fibrosis, and myocyte stretch among persons living with and without HIV (PLWH, PLWOH).

Methods

Participants from three cohorts of PLWH and PLWOH underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging for measurement of LAVI and ECV. Levels of circulating proteins (IL-6, sCD14, galectin-3, NT-proBNP, GDF-15, TIMP-2, MMP-2, and hsTnI) were measured using immunoassays. Associations were assessed using logistic and linear regression, adjusting for demographics, substance use, and clinical characteristics.

Results

Among 381 participants with and without HIV, median age (IQR) was 55.1 (51.2, 58.4) years, 28% were female, 69% were Black, and 46% were current smokers. Sixty-two percent were PLWH (n = 235), of whom 88% were receiving cART and 72% were virally suppressed. PLWH had higher levels of sCD14 (p = < 0.001), GDF-15 (p = < 0.001), and NT-proBNP (p = 0.03) compared to PLWOH, while levels of other biomarkers did not differ by HIV serostatus, including IL-6 (p = 0.84). Among PLWH, higher sCD14, GDF-15, and NT-proBNP were also associated with lower CD4 + cell count, and higher NT-proBNP was associated with detectable HIV viral load. NT-proBNP was associated with elevated LAVI (OR: 1.79 [95% CI: 1.31, 2.44]; p < 0.001) with no evidence of effect measure modification by HIV serostatus. Other associations between HIV-associated biomarkers and LAVI or ECV were small or imprecise.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that elevated levels of sCD14, GDF-15, and NT-proBNP among PLWH compared to PLWOH observed in the current cART era may only minimally reflect HIV-associated elevations in LAVI and ECV. Future studies of excess risk of myocardial disease among contemporary cohorts of PLWH should investigate mechanisms other than those connoted by the studied biomarkers.
Evaluation of DNA damage induced by ionizing radiation from myocardial perfusion imaging: a pilot study
Authors: Arpini Anna Paula , De Lorenzo Andrea , Moritz Aniele , Pereira Julia Passarelli , Dias Glauber Monteiro
Published: September 2022

Background

As patient exposure to ionizing radiation raises concern about malignancy risks, this study evaluated the effect of ionizing radiation on patients undergoing myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using the comet assay, a method for detection of DNA damage.

Methods

Patients without cancer, acute or autoimmune diseases, recent surgery or trauma, were studied. Gated single-photon myocardial perfusion imaging was performed with Tc-99m sestamibi. Peripheral blood was collected before radiotracer injection at rest and 60–90 min after injection. Single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay) was performed with blood lymphocytes to detect strand breaks, which determine a “comet tail” of variable size, visually scored by 3 observers in a fluorescence microscope after staining (0: no damage, no tail; 1: small damage; 2: large damage; 3: full damage). A damage index was calculated as a weighted average of the cell scores.

Results

Among the 29 individuals included in the analysis, age was 65.3 ± 9.9 years and 18 (62.1%) were male. The injected radiotracer dose was 880.6 ± 229.4 MBq. Most cells (approximately 70%) remained without DNA fragmentation (class 0) after tracer injection. There were nonsignificant increases of classes 1 and 2 of damage. Class 3 was the least frequent both before and after radiotracer injection, but displayed a significant, 44% increase after injection.

Conclusion

While lymphocytes mostly remained in class 0, an increase in class 3 DNA damage was detected. This may suggest that, despite a probable lack of biologically relevant DNA damage, there is still a need for tracer dose reductions in MPI.
Design and validation of a preparedness evaluation tool of pre-hospital emergency medical services for terrorist attacks: a mixed method study
Authors: Miraki Sadegh , Molavi-Taleghani Yasamin , Amiresmaeili Mohammadreza , Nekoei-Moghadam Mahmood , Sheikhbardsiri Hojjat
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Terrorist attacks are one of the human problems that affect many countries, leaving behind a huge toll of disabilities and deaths. The aim of this study was to use a mixed-method analysis to design and validate an evaluation tool for pre-hospital emergency medical services for terrorist attacks.

Methods

The present study is a mixed-method (qualitative and quantitative) study that was conducted in two phases. In the qualitative phase (item generation), semi-structured interviews were conducted with 34 Iranian emergency medical technicians who were selected through a purposive sampling method and a scoping literature review was conducted to generate an item pool for the preparedness evaluation of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in terrorist attacks. In the quantitative phase (item reduction), for validity of tool face, content and construct validity, were performed; for tool reliability, the test and retest and intra-class correlation coefficient were evaluated.

Results

At the first stage, 7 main categories and 16 subcategories were extracted from the data, the main categories including “Policy and Planning”, “Education and Exercise “,“ Surge Capacity”, “Safety and Security”, “Command, Control and Coordination”, “Information and Communication Management “and “Response Operations Management”. The initial item pool included 160 items that were reduced to 110 after assessment of validity (face, content and construct). intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC = 0.71) examination and Pearson correlation test (r = 0.81) indicated that the tool was also reliable.

Conclusion

The research findings provide a new perspective to understand the preparedness of pre-hospital emergency medical services for terrorist attacks. The existing 110-item tool can evaluate preparedness of pre-hospital emergency medical services for terrorist attacks through collecting data with appropriate validity and reliability.
Identification of early predictors for infected necrosis in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Wiese Mats L. , Urban Steffi , von Rheinbaben Sabrina , Frost Fabian , Sendler Matthias , Weiss Frank Ulrich , Bülow Robin , Kromrey Marie-Luise , Tran Quang Trung , Lerch Markus M. , Schauer Birgit , Aghdassi Ali A.
Published: September 2022

Background

In acute pancreatitis, secondary infection of pancreatic necrosis is a complication that mostly necessitates interventional therapy. A reliable prediction of infected necrotizing pancreatitis would enable an early identification of patients at risk, which however, is not possible yet.

Methods

This study aims to identify parameters that are useful for the prediction of infected necrosis and to develop a prediction model for early detection. We conducted a retrospective analysis from the hospital information and reimbursement data system and screened 705 patients hospitalized with diagnosis of acute pancreatitis who underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography and additional diagnostic puncture or drainage of necrotic collections. Both clinical and laboratory parameters were analyzed for an association with a microbiologically confirmed infected pancreatic necrosis. A prediction model was developed using a logistic regression analysis with stepwise inclusion of significant variables. The model quality was tested by receiver operating characteristics analysis and compared to single parameters and APACHE II score.

Results

We identified a total of 89 patients with necrotizing pancreatitis, diagnosed by computed tomography, who additionally received biopsy or drainage. Out of these, 59 individuals had an infected necrosis. Eleven parameters showed a significant association with an infection including C-reactive protein, albumin, creatinine, and alcoholic etiology, which were independent variables in a predictive model. This model showed an area under the curve of 0.819, a sensitivity of 0.692 (95%-CI [0.547–0.809]), and a specificity of 0.840 (95%-CI [0.631–0.947]), outperforming single laboratory markers and APACHE II score. Even in cases of missing values predictability was reliable.

Conclusion

A model consisting of a few single blood parameters and etiology of pancreatitis might help for differentiation between infected and non-infected pancreatic necrosis and assist medical therapy in acute necrotizing pancreatitis.
COVID-19 pandemic or chaos time management: first-line worker shortage – a qualitative study in three Canadian Provinces
Authors: Beogo Idrissa , Bationo Nebila Jean-Claude , Sia Drissa , Collin Stephanie , Kinkumba Ramazani Babou , Létourneau Aurée-Anne , Ramdé Jean , Gagnon Marie-Pierre , Tchouaket Eric Nguemeleu
Published: September 2022

Background

Over the successive waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, front-line care workers (FLCWs) —in this case, at long-term care facilities (LTCFs)— have been the backbone of the fight. The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected LTCFs in terms of the number of cases, deaths, and other morbidities, requiring managers to make rapid and profound shifts. The purpose of this study is to describe the effects of the pandemic on LTCF services offered and LTCFs staff dedicated to linguistic minorities in three Canadian provinces.

Methods

This qualitative descriptive study involved eleven managers and fourteen FLCWs, from six LTCFs of three Canadian provinces (New-Brunswick, Manitoba and Quebec). A qualitative content analysis was performed to identify key themes describing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the services offered and the management of LTCFs staff.

Results

Based on participants’ experiences, we identified three main categories of themes. These macro-themes are as follows: (i) organization and management of staff, (ii) communication and decision-making method, and (iii) staff support.

Conclusion

The study highlighted the tremendous impact of COVID-19 on direct care staff in terms of the high risks associated with caring for LTCFs residents, which are exacerbated by absences and resignations (sometimes up to 50% of staff), resulting in higher resident to FLCWs ratios. Team members had to support each other, they also received accolades and appreciation from the residents.. Finally, the pandemic led to the rethinking of management procedures centred on a coordinated, inclusive and more hands-on management approach.
The association of urinary prostaglandins with uric acid in hyperuricemia patients
Authors: Lin Huagang , Xu Ying , Zheng Yuqi , Wu Deping , Ye Zhibin , Xiao Jing
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To explore the association between uric acid and urinary prostaglandins in male patients with hyperuricemia.

Methods

A total of 38 male patients with hyperuricemia in outpatients of Huadong Hospital from July 2018 to January 2020 were recruited. Serum uric acid (SUA), 24 h urinary uric acid excretion and other indicators were detected respectively. 10 ml urine was taken to determine prostaglandin prostaglandin D (PGD), prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), 6-keto-PGF1α, thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and thromboxane B2 (TXB2). Fraction of uric acid excretion (FEua) and uric acid clearance rate (Cua) were calculated. According to the mean value of FEua and Cua, patients were divided into two groups, respectively. The independent-samples t test and the Mann–Whitney U test were applied for normally and non-normally distributed data, respectively.

Results

After adjusting confounding factors (age, BMI, eGFR, TG, TC, HDL and LDL), SUA was negatively correlated with urinary PGE1(r = -0.615, P = 0.009) and PGE2(r = -0.824, P < 0.001). Compared with SUA1 group (SUA < 482.6 mg/dl), SUA2 (SUA $$\ge$$
≥
482.6 mg/dl) had lower urinary PGE1(P = 0.022) and PGE2(P = 0.019) levels. Cua was positively correlated with PGE2 (r = 0.436, P = 0.01). The correlation persisted after adjustment for age, BMI, eGFR, TG, TC, HDL and LDL by multiple linear regression analysis. In the Cua1 group (Cua < 4.869 mL /min/1.73 m2), PGE2 were lower than that in Cua2 (Cua $$\ge$$
≥
4.869 mL /min/1.73 m2) group (P = 0.011).

Conclusions

In male patients with hyperuricemia, SUA was negatively correlated with urinary PGE2, Cua was positively correlated with urinary PGE2. Urinary PGE2 were significantly different between different SUA and Cua groups.
Risk factors for early neurological deterioration in acute isolated pontine infarction without any causative artery stenosis
Authors: Liu Yinglin , Peng Hongmei , Wang Jian , He Lanying , Xu Jinghan , Zheng Min , Xu Yao , Xu Fan
Published: September 2022

Background

This study aimed to investigate the risk predictors for early neurological deterioration (END) in isolated acute pontine infarction without any causative artery stenosis.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients with isolated acute pontine infarction within 72 h of symptom onset were enrolled between October 2017 and December 2021. END was defined as an increase in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥ 2 points within the first week postadmission. Patients were divided into the END and the non-END groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate independent predictors of END in patients with isolated acute pontine infarction.

Results

A total of 153 patients were included in the final study (62 females; mean age, 67.27 ± 11.35 years), of whom 28.7% (47 of 153) experienced END. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that infarct volume (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.003; 95% CI, 1.001–1.005; P = 0.002) and basilar artery branch disease  (aOR, 3.388; 95% CI, 1.102–10.417;P = 0.033) were associated with END. The combined ROC analysis of the infarct volume and basilar artery branch disease for predicting END showed that the sensitivity and specificity were 80.9% and 72.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

Basilar artery branch disease and infarct volume were associated with END in acute isolated pontine infarction and may be useful prognostic factors for neurological progression.
HbA1c at term delivery and adverse pregnancy outcome
Authors: Hong Jesrine Gek Shan , Fadzleeyanna Mohd Yahaya Noor , Omar Siti Zawiah , Tan Peng Chiong
Published: September 2022

Background

There are no obvious thresholds at which the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes increases as a result of maternal hyperglycemia. HbA1c level which is representative of average blood glucose levels over the last 2–3 months is not as strongly predictive of adverse outcome compared to blood glucose values of oral glucose tolerance test. Data is sparse on the predictive value of HbA1c at term just prior to delivery on adverse outcome. We sought to evaluate HbA1c taken on admission for delivery at term on adverse outcomes of Cesarean delivery and large (≥ 90th centile) for gestational age (LGA) infants.

Methods

A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in a university hospital in Malaysia from December 2017-August 2018. 1000 women at term whose deliveries were imminent were enrolled. Blood were drawn and immediately sent for HbA1c analysis at our hospital laboratory. Primary outcomes were Cesarean delivery and LGA.

Results

On crude analyses, Cesarean births (vs. vaginal births) were associated with significantly higher HbA1c (%) levels 5.4[5.2–5.7] vs. 5.3[5.1–5.6] P =  < 0.001 but not for LGA vs. non-LGA 5.4[5.1–5.6] vs. 5.3[5.1–5.6] P = 0.17. After controlling for significant confounders identified on crude analysis (diabetes in pregnancy, parity, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), previous cesarean, labor induction, Group B streptococcus (GBS) carriage and birth weight), HbA1c is independently predictive of Cesarean birth, adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.47 95% CI 1.06–2.06 P = 0.023 per HbA1c 1% increase. Following adjustment for significant confounders (BMI, predelivery anemia [hemoglobin < 11 g/dl] and GBS carriage), the impact of raised HbA1c level on LGA is AOR 1.43 95% CI 0.93–2.18 P = 0.101 per HbA1c 1% increase and non-significant.

Conclusion

Raised HbA1c level at term births in the general pregnant population is independently predictive of Cesarean delivery after adjustment for potential confounders including diabetes in pregnancy.