bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New genus of gelechiid moths (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) from Borneo, and its four new species
Authors: PONOMARENKO MARGARITA G. , OMELKO MICHAIL M. , OMELKO NATALIA V.
Published: July 2021

Tawaya gen. n. and its four new species (T. flaventia sp. n., T. rutila sp. n., T. luteola sp. n. and T. armeniaca sp. n.) are described from Borneo. A key to the described species is provided. The taxonomic position of a new genus within the subfamily Dichomeridinae (Gelechiidae) is proposed based on a combination of molecular and morphological analyses.
A new species of the genus Pieris Schrank, 1801 (Lepidoptera: Pieridae: Pierinae) with taxonomic notes on the Pieris napi group from India
Authors: DAS GAURAB NANDI , EITSCHBERGER ULF , SINGH NAVNEET , CHANDRA KAILASH
Published: July 2021

A new species, Pieris tadokoroi, sp. nov. is described from Himachal Pradesh, India. The new species is closely similar to those of the Pieris napi group and can be diagnosed by its smaller size and a broad apical forewing patch. Based on the recently collected material, the Pieris napi group from India is reviewed. The male and female genitalia are analyzed and illustrated, including the first description of the female genitalia of Pieris extensa bhutya Talbot, 1939. Androconia of all the related species are studied and described.
The Neotropical genus Eudexia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 (Tachinidae: Dexiinae: Dexiini): lectotype fixation for the type species, synonymy, and a new species from Brazil
Authors: DE SANTIS MARCELO DOMINGOS
Published: July 2021

Eudexia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889, a Dexiini genus restricted to the Neotropical Region, is revised with proposal of the following new synonymies: Chaetocalirrhoe Townsend, 1935 = Eudexia, syn. nov. and Cordillerodexia Townsend, 1927 = Eudexia, syn. nov. As a result, the following new combinations are proposed: Eudexia brevicornis (Macquart, 1851), comb. nov., Eudexia colombiana (Townsend, 1929), comb. nov., Eudexia grandis (Townsend, 1935), comb. nov., and Eudexia orientalis (Townsend, 1927), comb. nov. Redescriptions, photographs and a lectotype designation are provided for the type species Eudexia formidabilis (Bigot, 1889). Diagnoses and photographs are provided for Eudexia colombiana, E. grandis, and E. orientalis, and a diagnosis is provided for E. brevicornis. A new species from Brazil, Eudexia lopesi sp. nov., is described. Finally, an updated diagnosis for the genus Eudexia and a key to the seven known species are given.
Modification and Application of Waste Shaddock Peel as a Green Additive for Water-Based Drilling Fluid
Authors: Ni Weijun , Wang Weiliang , Wang Qingchen , Du Weichao , Chen Gang
Published: July 2021

To develop an eco-friendly drilling fluid additive, shaddock peel was modified and was used in water-based drilling fluid in this work. The shaddock peel has obvious effects on rheological properties, filtration, and wall formation of drilling fluid. It also displays the inhibition
of clay swelling, while the shaddock peel slurry is easy to ferment, mildew and so on. The performance of the shaddock peel slurry and moldy/fermented shaddock peel slurry in water-based drilling fluid were compared, which shows that the efficiency, such as the AV and PV, decrease obviously
by more than 50%. The swelling rate of bentonite in the water extraction of moldy/fermented shaddock peel in 90 min is about 62%, which is obviously higher than the swelling rate of the non-mildew/fermented shaddock peel water extract, 46%. Then preservative was evaluated in shaddock peel
slurry modified drilling fluid. The result indicates that the effect of moldy/fermentation on the viscosity and the inhibition of shaddock peel was obviously inhibited by the preservative. The combined sodium benzoate and formaldehyde can protect the shaddock peel slurry from mildew and fermentation,
which can keep the performance of shaddock peel slurry in the drilling fluid.
Modification of Hardness Properties Characterizing Carbon Steel American Society for Testing and Materials in Carbon Steel A36 Using Bagasse Ash from the Waste of Sugarcane Industries
Authors: Srisuwan Nakarin , Kalnaowakul Phuri , Rodchanarowan Aphichart , Yingsamphancharoen Trinet
Published: July 2021

In this work, the effect of bagasse ash from waste sugarcane industries on American society for testing and materials in carbon steel A36 (ASTM A36) was investigated. The ash caused the formation on the surface of the samples’ carbon sheet, thereby improving the hardness of the
materials’ property. The samples were polished and cleaned in preparation for hardness tests (Rockwell) and microstructural investigation. Furthermore, the bagasse was sintered in a furnace at 400 °C for 3 h to bagasse ash. Additionally, the ash was sifted to a sample size of 100
μm and mixed with 100:0, 90:10, and 80:20 ratios of barium carbonate (BaCO3). The samples were calcined in a pack carburizing box between bagasse ash and BaCO3 at 950 °C for 8 h. The carburized samples were used to classify by Thermogravimetric Analysis
(TGA), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OMS), and Optical Microscopy (OM), respectively. The results revealed that 88% of carbon by weight of bagasse ash contributes to significant improvement in the mechanical properties of the ASTM A36 steel.
First-Principles Study on Al/Al3Hf Heterogeneous Nucleation Interface
Authors: Zhuo Ziming , Mao Hongkui , Fu Yizheng
Published: July 2021

Using first-principles method, the work of adhesion (Wad) and electronic structure of Al3Hf (001)/Al (001) interface are studied and the mechanism of Al3Hf as enhanced heterogeneous nucleus of α-Al are discussed. The results indicate that
Al + Hf-termination interfaces with same stacking sequence and the HCP (Al atom locating on top of the Al3Hf slab) interface with the same termination have maximum Wad and minimum interface energy (yint), and therefore they are more stable ones. It is noteworthy
that Al + Hf-terminated interface with HCP is most steady one. The stacking of Al atoms on Al3Hf substrates tend to occur in this way. Besides, electronic structures indicate that Al + Hf-terminated interfaces have stronger electronic interaction than that of Al-terminated ones
and the Al-Hf bonds of Al + Hf-terminated interface with HCP stacking tend to covalent bonds, while Al–Al bonds of Al-terminated one are metal bonds. Al3Hf as enhanced heterogeneous nucleation of α-Al are effective from crystallography and thermodynamics.
Device Characteristics of Inverted Red Colloidal Quantum-Dot Light-Emitting Diodes Depending on Hole Transport Layers
Authors: Lee Donggu , Lim Jaehoon , Park Myeongjin , Kang Chan-Mo , Lee Hyunkoo
Published: July 2021

We investigated the dependence of the device characteristics of inverted red colloidal quantum dot light-emitting diodes on the hole transport layer. Three different hole transport materials, 4,4′-bis(carbazole-9-yl)biphenyl, 4,4,′4″-tri(N-carbazolyl)triphenylamine,
N, N′-bis(naphthalen-1-yl)-N, N′-bis(phynyl)-2,2′-dimethylbenzidine, and six different hole transport layer structures were used for comparing the devices’ performances. The turn-on voltage of the devices was dominated by the energy level difference
between the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of the hole-injection layer (molybdenum trioxide) and the highest occupied molecular orbital of the adjacent hole transport material. The hole mobility as well as the energy level difference between the valence band of the quantum dot and the
highest occupied molecular orbital of the adjacent hole transport material was significant factors for high luminance and efficiency. Among the considered devices with six different hole transport layer structures, the device with a single 4,4′-bis(carbazole-9-yl)biphenyl layer as a
hole transport layer exhibited the best performance, with a peak efficiency of 5.56% at ~10 mA/cm2. All of the devices exhibited nearly the same main emission peak at ~641 nm and a narrow full-width-half-maximum of ~34 nm, and their International Commission on Illumination 1931
color coordinates were very deep red, nearly the same as the BT.2020 red color coordinate of (0.708, 0.292).
Investigation of the properties of knitted woolen fabrics treated with oxygen low-temperature plasma for sportswear applications
Authors: Cong Honglian , Zhao Boyu , Han Hao , Yu Xuliang
Published: July 2021

Nine groups of knitted woolen fabrics for sportswear with different technical characteristics were treated with oxygen low-temperature plasma, and the changes in the surface morphology and chemical composition of wool fibers before and after plasma treatment, as well as the changes in the applicability indexes of knitted woolen fabrics, were studied. Finally, the comfort performance of the fabrics was evaluated by combining the concentration mapping method and the function evaluation value method. The analysis found that the surface scales of wool fibers were seriously etched after oxygen low-temperature plasma treatment, and the anti-felting, bursting strength and moisture absorption of the knitted woolen fabrics were improved. At the same time, the quick-drying index of the fabric has also been improved to a certain extent. This research provides a basis for the development of knitted woolen fabric for sportswear with excellent performance.
Evaluating Darwin’s Book on the Descent of Man
Authors: Leigh Egbert
Published: July 2021

This is a review of A Most Interesting Problem: What Darwin’s Descent of Man Got Right and Wrong about Human Evolution, edited by Jeremy DeSilva. The book has ten chapters, the first seven evaluating and updating the seven chapters of The Descent of Man, the eighth outlining Darwin’s theory of sexual selection, the ninth criticizing Darwin’s view of how sexual selection shaped human racial divergence, and the tenth summarizing hominin diversification.
Atypical presentation of testicular torsion: a case series
Authors: Onwuasoanya Uzodimma Ejike
Published: July 2021

Background

Testicular torsion is a urological emergency and needs urgent intervention to prevent testicular loss and impaired future fertility. It is commonly seen in the neonatal and adolescent age groups. Testicular torsion can also present outside these common age groups with uncommon symptoms and signs. We report case series of patients managed at Lily Hospitals Limited, Warri, Delta State, Nigeria with atypical presentation of testicular torsion.

Case Presentation

The first patient was a 35-year-old male that presented with recurrent right testicular pain of 1-year duration, described as dull aching with no constitutional symptoms, physical examination findings were not pathognomonic of testicular torsion, he had scrotal exploration with right orchidectomy and left orchidopexy. The second patient was a 39-year-old male who presented with recurrent right testicular pain of 4-days duration, described as dull aching with no constitutional symptoms. Physical examination findings were not classical for testicular torsion, he had scrotal exploration with bilateral orchidopexy.

Conclusion

Testicular torsion although common in neonatal and adolescent age groups can also present outside these age groups with uncommon symptoms and signs, a high index of suspicion is thus invaluable in any patient presenting with testicular pain despite the age and severity to avoid missing the diagnosis as this can lead to testicular loss.
Disparities in risk perception and low harm reduction services awareness, access, and utilization among young people with newly reported hepatitis C infections in California, 2018
Authors: Ohringer Alison R. , Serota David P. , McLean Rachel L. , Stockman Lauren J. , Watt James P.
Published: July 2021

Background

Newly reported hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in California increased 50% among people 15–29 years of age between 2014 and 2016. National estimates suggest this increase was due to the opioid epidemic and associated increases in injection drug use. However, most of California’s 61 local health jurisdictions (LHJs) do not routinely investigate newly reported HCV infections, so these individuals’ risk factors for infection are not well understood. We sought to describe the demographics, risk behaviors, and utilization of harm reduction services in California’s fastest-rising age group of people with newly reported hepatitis C infections to support targeted HCV prevention and treatment strategies.

Methods

California Department of Public Health invited LHJs to participate in enhanced surveillance if they met criteria indicating heightened population risk for HCV infection among people ages 15–29. From June–December 2018, eight LHJs contacted newly reported HCV cases by phone using a structured questionnaire.

Results

Among 472 total HCV cases who met the inclusion criteria, 114 (24%) completed an interview. Twenty-seven percent of respondents (n = 31) had ever been incarcerated, of whom 29% received a tattoo/piercing and 39% injected drugs while incarcerated. Among people who injected drugs (PWID)—36% (n = 41) of all respondents—68% shared injection equipment and many lacked access to harm reduction services: 37% knew of or ever used a needle exchange and 44% ever needed naloxone during an overdose but did not have it. Heroin was the most frequently reported injected drug (n = 30), followed by methamphetamine (n = 18). Pre-diagnosis HCV risk perception varied significantly by PWID status and race/ethnicity: 76% of PWID vs. 8% of non-PWID (p < 0.001), and 44% of non-Hispanic White respondents vs. 22% of people of color (POC) respondents (p = 0.011), reported thinking they were at risk for HCV before diagnosis. Eighty-nine percent of all respondents reported having health insurance, although only two had taken HCV antiviral medications.

Conclusions

Among young people with HCV, we found limited pre-diagnosis HCV risk perception and access to harm reduction services, with racial/ethnic disparities. Interventions to increase harm reduction services awareness, access, and utilization among young PWID, especially young PWID of color, may be warranted.
Clinical outcomes and predictive factors for failure with MPFL reconstruction combined with tibial tubercle osteotomy and lateral retinacular release for recurrent patellar instability
Authors: Su Peng , Liu Xiumin , Jian Nengri , Li Jian , Fu Weili
Published: July 2021

Background

Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction combined with tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) and lateral retinacular release (LRR) is one of the main treatment methods for patellar instability. So far, few studies have evaluated the clinical effectiveness and assessed potential risk factors for recurrent patellar instability.

Purpose

To report the clinical outcomes of MPFL reconstruction combined with TTO and LRR at least three years after operation and to identify potential risk factors for recurrent patellar instability.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of medical records for patients treated with MPFL, TTO and LRR from 2013 to 2017 was performed. Preoperative assessment for imaging examination included trochlear dysplasia according to Dejour classification, patella alta with the Caton-Deschamps index (CDI), tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance. Postoperative assessment for knee function included Kujala, IKDC and Tegner scores. Failure rate which was defined by a postoperative dislocation was also reported.

Results

A total of 108 knees in 98 patients were included in the study. The mean age at operation was 19.2 ± 6.1 years (range, 13–40 years), and the mean follow-up was 61.3 ± 15.4 months (range, 36–92 months). All patients included had trochlear dysplasia (A, 24%; B, 17%; C, 35%; D, 24%), and 67% had patellar alta. The mean postoperative scores of Tegner, Kujala and IKDC were 5.3 ± 1.3 (2–8), 90.5 ± 15.5 (24–100) and 72.7 ± 12.1 (26–86). Postoperative dislocation happened in 6 patients (5.6%). Female gender was a risk factor for lower IKDC (70.7 vs 78.1, P = 0.006), Tegner (5.1 vs 6.0, P = 0.006) and Kujala (88.2 vs 96.6, P = 0.008). Age (p = 0.011) and trochlear dysplasia (p = 0.016) were considered to be two failure factors for MPFL combined with TTO and LRR.

Conclusion

As a surgical method, MPFL combined with TTO and LRR would be a reliable choice with a low failure rate (5.6%). Female gender was a risk factor for worse postoperative outcomes. Preoperative failure risk factors in this study were age and trochlear dysplasia.

Level of Evidence

Level IV; Case series
Factors influencing international and U.S. dentists’ interest in advanced periodontal education: a pilot study
Authors: Paes B. da Silva Andre , Saqqal Hazem , Guirguis Andrew , Irfan Uma M.
Published: July 2021

Background

The enrollment of international periodontal students in U.S. dental schools has been increasing in recent years. Interest in applying to a periodontics specialty program may differ between U.S and international dental school graduates. The purpose of this study is to assess, from the perspective of periodontal residents, (1) factors that interest dental students to apply to periodontics programs and (2) differences in background and interest between U.S and international graduates.

Methods

A 20-question survey was sent out electronically to periodontics residents. The survey questions were designed to obtain information on the participants’ backgrounds, factors that influenced them to specialize in periodontics, and their preferred features of graduate periodontics programs. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics for socio-demographic variables, a Wilcoxon two sample test to compare mean Likert scale scores, and Fisher’s exact test for associations between comparison groups.

Results

Of the two hundred residents invited to participate, 28% responded. The majority of the respondents stated that interest in implantology, previous exposure to periodontal procedures, interest in improving periodontal surgery skills, a good relationship with periodontics faculty, the residency curriculum, advanced program and faculty reputation as influencing factors in selecting periodontics as specialization. The majority of international graduates have up to $50,000 dollars in student debt; by comparison, half of the domestic graduates have a debt of over $250,000 dollars (p ≤ 0.05). Working experience as a dentist was significantly greater among international residents (73%) in comparison to U.S graduates (32%). In contrast with international graduates, U.S graduates more frequent reported that good relationships with the periodontics predoctoral faculty contributed to their interest in periodontics (p ≤ 0.05). Program cost and location had a greater impact on the decision of U.S. graduates than international graduates (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

Overall, factors associated with personal finance and predoctoral education have a greater impact on the decision of American graduates than international graduates to pursue an advanced education in periodontics, which may influence the increased enrollment of international students.
Bio-guided bioactive profiling and HPLC-DAD fingerprinting of Ukrainian saffron (Crocus sativus stigmas): moving from correlation toward causation
Authors: Mykhailenko Olha , Petrikaitė Vilma , Korinek Michal , El-Shazly Mohamed , Chen Bing-Hung , Yen Chia-Hung , Hsieh Chung-Fan , Bezruk Ivan , Dabrišiūtė Asta , Ivanauskas Liudas , Georgiyants Victoriya , Hwang Tsong-Long
Published: July 2021

Background

Saffron or stigmas of Crocus sativus L. is one of the most valuable food products with interesting health-promoting properties. C. sativus has been widely used as a coloring and flavoring agent. Stigmas secondary metabolites showed potent cytotoxic effects in previous reports.

Methods

The present study investigated the chemical composition and the cytotoxic effect of Ukrainian saffron crude extracts and individual compounds against melanoma IGR39, triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231, and glioblastoma U-87 cell lines in vitro using MTT assay. Several bioactivity in vitro assays were performed. The chemical profile of the water and hydroethanolic (70%, v/v) crude extracts of saffron stigmas was elucidated by HPLC-DAD analysis.

Results

Seven compounds were identified including crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, rutin, apigenin, caffeic acid, ferulic acid. Crocin, picrocrocin, safranal, rutin, and apigenin were the major active constituents of Ukrainian C. sativus stigmas. The hydroethanolic extract significantly reduced the viability of MDA-MB-231 and IGR39 cells and the effect was more potent in comparison with the water extract. However, the water extract was almost 5.6 times more active against the U-87 cell line (EC50 of the water extract against U-87 was 0.15 ± 0.02 mg/mL, and EC50 of the hydroethanolic extract was 0.83 ± 0.03 mg/mL). The pure compounds, apigenin, and caffeic acid also showed high cytotoxic activity against breast cancer, melanoma, and glioblastoma cell lines. The screening of the biological activities of stigmas water extract (up to 100 μg/mL) including anti-allergic, anti-virus, anti-neuraminidase, and anti-inflammatory effects revealed its inhibitory activity against neuraminidase enzyme by 41%.

Conclusions

The presented results revealed the qualitative and quantitative chemical composition and biological activity of Crocus sativus stigmas from Ukraine as a source of natural anticancer and neuraminidase inhibitory agents. The results of the extracts’ bioactivity suggested future potential applications of saffron as a natural remedy against several cancers.
Healthcare workers’ perspectives on coronavirus testing availability: a cross sectional survey
Authors: Byhoff Elena , Paulus Jessica K. , Guardado Rubeen , Zubiago Julia , Wurcel Alysse G.
Published: July 2021

Background

Studies on the impact of the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID) for healthcare workers (HCWs) rarely include the full spectrum of hospital workers, including less visible patient support roles. In the early days of the pandemic, COVID testing was preferentially available to HCWs. The objective of this study was to understand how individual experiences for all HCWs during the pandemic were associated with perceptions of access to, and receipt of COVID testing .

Methods

All hospital employees (n = 6736) in a single academic medical center in Boston, Massachusetts were invited to participate in a cross-sectional survey regarding perceived access to, and receipt of COVID testing during the first wave of the pandemic (March – August 2020). Responses were linked to human resources data. Log binomial univariate and multivariable models were used to estimate associations between individual and employment variables and COVID testing.

Results

A total of 2543 employees responded to the survey (38 %). The mean age was 40 years (± 14). Respondents were female (76 %), white (55 %), worked as nurses (27 %), administrators (22 %) and patient support roles (22 %); 56 % of respondents wanted COVID testing. Age (RR 0.91, CI 0.88–0.93), full time status (RR 0.85, CI 0.79–0.92), employment tenure (RR 0.96, CI 0.94–0.98), changes in quality of life (RR 0.94, CI 0.91–0.96), changes in job duties (RR 1.19, CI 1.03–1.37), and worry about enough paid sick leave (RR 1.21, CI 1.12–1.30) were associated with interest in testing. Administrators (RR 0.64, CI 0.58–0.72) and patient support staff (RR 0.85, CI 0.78–0.92) were less likely than nurses to want testing. Age (RR 1.04, CI 1.01–1.07), material hardships (RR 0.87, CI 0.79–0.96), and employer sponsored insurance (RR 1.10, CI 1.00-1.22) were associated with receiving a COVID test. Among all employees, only administrative/facilities staff were less likely to receive COVID testing (RR 0.69, CI 0.59–0.79).

Conclusions

This study adds to our understanding of how hospital employees view availability of COVID testing. Hazard pay or other supports for hospital workers may increase COVID testing rates. These findings may be applicable to perceived barriers towards vaccination receipt.
Health-related quality of life in different trimesters during pregnancy
Authors: Wu Huailiang , Sun Weiwei , Chen Hanqing , Wu Yanxin , Ding Wenjing , Liang Shangqiang , Huang Xinyu , Chen Haitian , Zeng Qing , Li Zhuyu , Xiong Peng , Huang Jian , Akinwunmi Babatunde , Zhang Casper J. P. , Ming Wai-Kit
Published: July 2021

Background

Pregnant women experience physical, physiological, and mental changes. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a relevant indicator of psychological and physical behaviours, changing over the course of pregnancy. This study aims to assess HRQoL of pregnant women during different stages of pregnancy.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed using the The EuroQoL Group’s five-dimension five-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) to assess the HRQoL of pregnant women, and demographic data were collected. This study was conducted in a regional university hospital in Guangzhou, China.

Results

A total of 908 pregnant women were included in this study. Pregnant women in the early 2nd trimester had the highest HRQoL. The HRQoL of pregnant women rose from the 1st trimester to the early 2nd trimester, and dropped to the bottom at the late 3rd trimester due to some physical and mental changes. Reports of pain/discomfort problem were the most common (46.0%) while self-care were the least concern. More than 10% of pregnant women in the 1st trimester had health-related problems in at least one dimension of whole five dimensions. In the whole sample, the EuroQoL Group’s visual analog scale (EQ-VAS) was 87.86 ± 9.16. Across the gestational stages, the HRQoL remained stable during the pregnancy but the highest value was observed in the 1st trimester (89.65 ± 10.13) while the lowest was in the late 3rd trimester (87.28 ± 9.13).

Conclusions

During pregnancy, HRQoL were associated with gestational trimesters in a certain degree. HRQoL was the highest in the early 2nd trimester and then decreased to the lowest in the late 3rd trimester due to a series of physical and psychological changes. Therefore, obstetric doctors and medical institutions should give more attention and care to pregnant women in the late 3rd trimester.
Mifepristone inhibited the expression of B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 in adenomyosis
Authors: Qin Xiaoyan , Sun Wenjing , Wang Chong , Li Mingjiang , Zhao Xingbo , Li Changzhong , Zhang Hui
Published: July 2021

Background

The immune mechanism was shown to be involved in the development of adenomyosis. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the expression of the immune checkpoints B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 in adenomyosis and to explore the effect of mifepristone on the expression of these immune checkpoints.

Methods

The expression of B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 in normal endometria and adenomyosis patient samples treated with or without mifepristone was determined by immunohistochemistry analysis.

Results

In adenomyosis patient samples, the expression of B7-H2, B7-H3 and B7-H4 was increased in the eutopic and ectopic endometria compared with normal endometria, both in the proliferative and secretory phases. Moreover, the expression of B7-H2 and B7-H3 was higher in adenomyotic lesions than in the corresponding eutopic endometria, both in the proliferative and secretory phases. The expression of PD-L2 was higher in adenomyotic lesions than in normal endometria in both the proliferative and secretory phases. In the secretory phase but not the proliferative phase, the expression of B7-H4 and PD-L2 in adenomyotic lesions was significantly higher than that in the corresponding eutopic endometria. In normal endometria and eutopic endometria, the expression of B7-H4 was elevated in the proliferative phase compared with that in the secretory phase, while in the ectopic endometria, B7-H4 expression was decreased in the proliferative phase compared with the secretory phase. In addition, the expression of B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 was significantly decreased in adenomyosis tissues after treatment with mifepristone.

Conclusions

The expression of the immune checkpoint proteins B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 is upregulated in adenomyosis tissues and is downregulated with mifepristone treatment. The data suggest that B7 immunomodulatory molecules are involved in the pathophysiology of adenomyosis.
Trophoblast derived extracellular vesicles specifically alter the transcriptome of endometrial cells and may constitute a critical component of embryo-maternal communication
Authors: Godakumara Kasun , Ord James , Lättekivi Freddy , Dissanayake Keerthie , Viil Janeli , Boggavarapu Nageswara Rao , Faridani Omid R , Jääger Kersti , Velthut-Meikas Agne , Jaakma Ülle , Salumets Andres , Fazeli Alireza
Published: July 2021

Background

The period of time when the embryo and the endometrium undergo significant morphological alterations to facilitate a successful implantation—known as “window of implantation”—is a critical moment in human reproduction. Embryo and the endometrium communicate extensively during this period, and lipid bilayer bound nanoscale extracellular vesicles (EVs) are purported to be integral to this communication.

Methods

To investigate the nature of the EV-mediated embryo-maternal communication, we have supplemented trophoblast analogue spheroid (JAr) derived EVs to an endometrial analogue (RL 95–2) cell layer and characterized the transcriptomic alterations using RNA sequencing. EVs derived from non-trophoblast cells (HEK293) were used as a negative control. The cargo of the EVs were also investigated through mRNA and miRNA sequencing.

Results

Trophoblast spheroid derived EVs induced drastic transcriptomic alterations in the endometrial cells while the non-trophoblast cell derived EVs failed to induce such changes demonstrating functional specificity in terms of EV origin. Through gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), we found that the response in endometrial cells was focused on extracellular matrix remodelling and G protein-coupled receptors’ signalling, both of which are of known functional relevance to endometrial receptivity. Approximately 9% of genes downregulated in endometrial cells were high-confidence predicted targets of miRNAs detected exclusively in trophoblast analogue-derived EVs, suggesting that only a small proportion of reduced expression in endometrial cells can be attributed directly to gene silencing by miRNAs carried as cargo in the EVs.

Conclusion

Our study reveals that trophoblast derived EVs have the ability to modify the endometrial gene expression, potentially with functional importance for embryo-maternal communication during implantation, although the exact underlying signalling mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
Correlation between the γ passing rates of IMRT plans and the volumes of air cavities and bony structures in head and neck cancer
Authors: Shen Zhengwen , Tan Xia , Li Shi , Tian Xiumei , Luo Huanli , Wang Ying , Jin Fu
Published: July 2021

Background

Both patient-specific dose recalculation and γ passing rate analysis are important for the quality assurance (QA) of intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plans. The aim of this study was to analyse the correlation between the γ passing rates and the volumes of air cavities (Vair) and bony structures (Vbone) in target volume of head and neck cancer.

Methods

Twenty nasopharyngeal carcinoma and twenty nasal natural killer T-cell lymphoma patients were enrolled in this study. Nine-field sliding window IMRT plans were produced and the dose distributions were calculated by anisotropic analytical algorithm (AAA), Acuros XB algorithm (AXB) and SciMoCa based on the Monte Carlo (MC) technique. The dose distributions and γ passing rates of the targets, organs at risk, air cavities and bony structures were compared among the different algorithms.

Results

The γ values obtained with AAA and AXB were 95.6 ± 1.9% and 96.2 ± 1.7%, respectively, with 3%/2 mm criteria (p > 0.05). There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the γ values between AAA and AXB in the air cavities (86.6 ± 9.4% vs. 98.0 ± 1.7%) and bony structures (82.7 ± 13.5% vs. 99.0 ± 1.7%). Using AAA, the γ values were proportional to the natural logarithm of Vair (R2 = 0.674) and inversely proportional to the natural logarithm of Vbone (R2 = 0.816). When the Vair in the targets was smaller than approximately 80 cc or the Vbone in the targets was larger than approximately 6 cc, the γ values of AAA were below 95%. Using AXB, no significant relationship was found between the γ values and Vair or Vbone.

Conclusion

In clinical head and neck IMRT QA, greater attention should be paid to the effect of Vair and Vbone in the targets on the γ passing rates when using different dose calculation algorithms.
A review of the clinical outcomes in idursulfase-treated and untreated Filipino patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type II: data from the local lysosomal storage disease registry
Authors: Racoma Marie Julianne C. , Calibag Maria Kristina Karizza B. , Cordero Cynthia P. , Abacan Mary Ann R. , Chiong Mary Anne D.
Published: July 2021

Background

Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II; Hunter syndrome) is an X-linked multisystem disorder characterized by glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation, caused by a deficiency of iduronate-2-sulfatase (I2S). Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with recombinant idursulfase (IDS), the standard of care, was started in the Philippines in 2017. This study reviewed the clinical outcomes in idursulfase-treated and untreated Filipino MPS II patients who were included in the local Lysosomal Storage Disease (LSD) registry of the Institute of Human Genetics-National Institutes of Health (IHG-NIH) from January 1999 to December 2019.

Methods

A retrospective audit of records of MPS II patients listed in the registry was done. Qualified patients were divided into two cohorts: idursulfase-treated group (patients on enzyme replacement therapy, ERT, for ≥ 6 months) and untreated group. Baseline characteristics, including demographic data, biochemical results, neurocognitive classification, respiratory involvement, mortality, and adverse events, were recorded. Height, weight, cardiac pathology, liver and spleen sizes, six-minute walking test (6MWT), joint mobility, were determined at baseline and at year 1 and 2 of follow up.

Results

Forty male patients were included in this review, with only 8 receiving ERT since 2017. The mean age at diagnosis was 6.99 years (SD 4.15; 0.75–20) and mean age at start of ERT was 14.03 years (SD 7.1; 4–21.5), more delayed than previous reports. Eighty percent have early progressive phenotype which was higher than reported average. The early growth pattern differed in our Filipino cohort, but was followed by the expected slowed growth in later years. Improvements in the following endpoints were observed in the treated cohort: height and weight, cardiac disease, liver and spleen sizes, and joint mobility. There were also positive effects on respiratory involvement and mortality rate. Adverse events were consistent with previous reports.

Conclusions

ERT is generally well tolerated and effective in reducing GAG storage and improving clinical endpoints among our Filipino MPS II patients. In untreated patients, typical disease progression was observed.
Paradoxical low severity of COVID-19 in Prader-Willi syndrome: data from a French survey on 647 patients
Authors: Coupaye Muriel , Laurier Virginie , Benvegnu Grégoire , Poitou Christine , Faucher Pauline , Mosbah Héléna , Diene Gwenaelle , Pinto Graziella , Briceño Laura González , Merrien Christine , Toyos Ana Camarena , Montastier Emilie , Tauber Maithé , Mourre Fabien
Published: July 2021

Background

Patients with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) often have comorbidities, especially obesity, that may constitute a risk factor for severe forms of COVID-19. We aimed to assess prevalence and medical course of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children and adults with PWS. From November 2020 to January 2021, we performed a detailed medical survey on 342 adults and 305 children with PWS followed in the French reference center.

Results

We obtained responses from 288 adults (84%) and 239 children (78%). From March 2020 to January 2021, 38 adults (13.2%) and 13 children (5.4%) with PWS had SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mean age of adults was 34.1 ± 11.9 years and mean body mass index was 40.6 ± 12.7 kg/m2; 82% had obesity and 37% had diabetes. Only 3 children (23%) had obesity and none had diabetes. Similar to the general population, the most frequent symptoms of COVID-19 were asthenia, fever, cough, headache and shortness of breath. All patients had a favorable outcome.

Conclusion

PWS itself is not a risk factor for severe COVID-19 in children and adults. On the contrary, evolution of SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults with PWS seems more favorable than expected, given their comorbidities.
Ridge preservation applying a novel hydrogel for early angiogenesis and osteogenesis evaluation: an experimental study in canine
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Li Qingshu , Chen Kaiwen , Mu Zhixiang , Chen Tao , Wang Huanan , Ji Ping
Published: July 2021

Ridge preservation is universally acknowledged as the conventional method for the post-extraction healing yet there are no standard materials for the ideal healing outcome. Herein, a composite gel comprising gelatin nanoparticles (GNPs) and injectable platelet-rich-fibrin (i-PRF) as the potential candidate for extracted socket healing is introduced. The combination of GNPs and i-PRF not only possesses favorable mechanical properties to withstand external force but also accelerate the blood clotting time significantly. In addition, six beagle dogs were adopted to assess the angiogenic and osteogenic capacity of GNPs+i-PRF gel in vivo. The GNPs+i-PRF gel significantly produced the most blood vessels area, woven bone and low osteoclast activity in extracted sockets at 2 weeks postoperation and remarkably generated corticalization on the alveolar ridge crest at 8 weeks postoperation according to histological results. Therefore, GNPs+i-PRF gel can be recommended as the candidate grafting material regarding ridge preservation for its cost effectiveness, excellent biocompatibility, facilitation of blood clotting and favorable capacity of promoting angiogenesis and osteogenesis.
How to use thionamide anti-thyroid drug in the young– what’s new?
Authors: Cheetham Tim
Published: July 2021

The excess thyroid hormone secretion that characterises Graves’ disease (GD) is generated when stimulatory antibodies bind to the thyroid stimulating hormone receptor on the follicular cell of the thyroid gland.

This underlying mechanism cannot easily be abolished and the mainstay of Graves’ disease (GD) management in the young remains thionamide anti-thyroid drug (ATD). Unfortunately, GD will usually recur after a 2 or 3 year course of ATD, even when the stimulatory antibody titres have fallen. The diagnosis of GD therefore usually signals the start of a lengthy period of out-patient assessments and associated venepuncture. Careful, more protracted administration of ATD may increase the likelihood of longer-term remission and reduce the likelihood of the patient developing ATD side-effects. An understanding of how best to use ATD and an awareness of the less well-known consequences of GD and its’ treatment - such as excessive weight-gain and long-term hypothyroidism – are also of fundamental importance.

Recent clinical studies have shed light on how best to manage the young patient with GD and the associated new information will help to answer some of the questions posed by the young person and their family at diagnosis. This new knowledge is the focus of this article about ATD therapy in the young.
Dasatinib enhances anti-leukemia efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T cells by inhibiting cell differentiation and exhaustion
Authors: Zhang Hao , Hu Yongxian , Shao Mi , Teng Xinyi , Jiang Penglei , Wang Xiujian , Wang Hui , Cui Jiazhen , Yu Jian , Liang Zuyu , Ding Lijuan , Han Yingli , Wei Jieping , Xu Yulin , Li Xiaoqing , Shan Wei , Shi Jimin , Luo Yi , Qian Pengxu , Huang He
Published: July 2021

Relapses of CD19-expressing leukemia in patients who achieved initial remission after CART cell treatment have been reported to correlate with poor CART cells persistence. Sustained tonic signaling or strong activation drives CART cell differentiation and exhaustion, which limit the therapeutic efficacy and persistence of CART cells. Here, we identified dasatinib as the optimal candidate to prevent or reverse both CD28/CART and 4-1BB/CART cell differentiation and exhaustion during ex vivo expansion, which profoundly enhanced the therapeutic efficacy and in vivo persistence. Moreover, strong activation-induced CART cells differentiation, exhaustion and apoptosis driven by CD3/CD28 stimulation or antigen exposure were dramatically prevented or reversed by dasatinib treatment. Mechanistically, dasatinib markedly reduced the phosphorylation of Src and Lck, and downregulated the expression of genes involved in CAR signaling pathways, which resulted in the optimization of cell differentiation, exhaustion and apoptosis-related gene expression. Our study proposes a promising pharmacological approach for optimizing CART cells manufacture, and provides an experimental basis for reinvigorating CART cells in clinical application.
Whole-exome sequencing reveals POLR3B variants associated with progeria-related Wiedemann-Rautenstrauch syndrome
Authors: Wu Shao-Wen , Li Lin , Feng Fan , Wang Li , Kong Yuan-Yuan , Liu Xiao-Wei , Yin Chenghong
Published: July 2021

Background

Wiedemann-Rautenstrauch syndrome (WRS) is a rare autosomal recessive neonatal progeroid disorder characterized by prenatal and postnatal growth retardation, short stature, a progeroid appearance, hypotonia, and mental impairment.

Case presentation

A 6-year-old patient, who initially presented with multiple postnatal abnormalities, facial dysplasia, micrognathia, skull appearance, hallux valgus, and congenital dislocation of the hip, was recruited in this study. The patient was initially diagnosed with progeria. The mother of the patient had abnormal fetal development during her second pregnancy check-up, and the clinical phenotype of the fetus was similar to that of the patient. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) of the patient was performed, and POLR3B compound heterozygous variants—c.2191G > C:p.E731Q and c.3046G > A:p.V1016M—were identified in the patient. Using Sanger sequencing, we found that the phenotypes and genotypes were segregated within the pedigree. These two variants are novel and not found in the gnomAD and 1000 Genomes databases. The two mutation sites are highly conserved between humans and zebrafish.

Conclusions

Our study not only identified a novel WRS-associated gene, POLR3B, but also broadened the mutational and phenotypic spectra of POLR3B. Furthermore, WES may be useful for identifying rare disease-related genetic variants.
Feasibility and diagnostic accuracy of Telephone Administration of an adapted wound heaLing QuestiONnaire for assessment for surgical site infection following abdominal surgery in low and middle-income countries (TALON): protocol for a study within a trial (SWAT)
Authors:   NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Global Surgery, Glasbey James , Adeyeye Victoria , Ademuyiwa Adesoji , Bhatt Alisha , Biccard Bruce , Blazeby Jane , Brocklehurst Peter , Chakrabortee Sohini , Ingabire Jean De La Croix Allen , Dossou Francis Moïse , Durán Irani , Dutta Rohini , Ghosh Dhruv , Gyamfi Frank , Haque Parvez , Hardy Pollyanna , Hyman Gabriella , Jain Ritu , Ladipo-Ajayi Oluwaseun , Lawani Ismail , Lawani Souliath , Kachapila Mwayi , Kroese Karolin , Lillywhite Rachel , Macefield Rhiannon , Magill Laura , Martin Janet , Mathers Jonathan , Mistry Punam , Mittal Rohin , Monahan Mark , Moore Rachel , Morton Dion , Ntirenganya Faustin , Ofori Emmanuel , Pearse Rupert , Peón Alberto , Pinkney Thomas , de la Medina Antonio Ramos , Ronald Tubasiime , Roman David , Slade Anita , Tabiri Stephen , Smith Donna , Bhangu Aneel
Published: July 2021

Background

Surgical site infection is the most common complication of abdominal surgery, with a global impact on patients and health systems. There are no tools to identify wound infection that are validated for use in the global setting. The overall aim of the study described in this protocol is to evaluate the feasibility and validity of a remote, digital pathway for wound assessment after hospital discharge for patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

A multi-centre, international, mixed-methods study within a trial, conducted in two stages (TALON-1 and TALON-2). TALON-1 will adapt and translate a universal reporter outcome measurement tool (Bluebelle Wound Healing Questionnaire, WHQ) for use in global surgical research (SWAT store registration: 126) that can be delivered over the telephone. TALON-2 will evaluate a remote wound assessment pathway (including trial retention) and validate the diagnostic accuracy of this adapted WHQ through a prospective cohort study embedded within two global surgery trials. Embedded community engagement and involvement activities will be used to optimise delivery and ensure culturally attuned conduct. TALON-1 and TALON-2 are designed and will be reported in accordance with best practice guidelines for adaptation and validation of outcome measures, and diagnostic test accuracy studies.

Discussion

Methods to identify surgical site infection after surgery for patients after hospital discharge have the potential to improve patient safety, trial retention, and research efficiency. TALON represents a large, pragmatic, international study co-designed and delivered with LMIC researchers and patients to address an important research gap in global surgery trial methodology.
Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto G1 is the predominant genotype in human and livestock isolates from Turkey and Iran, based on mitochondrial nad5 gene differentiation
Authors: Shahabi Saeed , Sarkari Bahador , Barazesh Afshin
Published: July 2021

Background

Different genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) isolated from livestock and humans have been identified based on cox1 and nad1 genomic fragments. The present study was performed to differentiate the G1/G3 genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus (s.s.) isolated from humans and livestock (sheep and cattle) from Azerbaijan in northwestern Iran, Fars Province in southern Iran, and Van province in Eastern Turkey, using the nad5 gene fragment as a suitable marker to distinguish these two genotypes.

Methods

A total of 60 pathologically confirmed human hydatid cysts and 90 hydatid cyst samples from livestock were collected from Turkey and Iran. PCR was performed on all of the samples, targeting the nad5 gene. Based on PCR product quality, host type, and the geographical area where the samples were obtained, 36 of the samples were sequenced and were used in the phylogenetic analysis.

Results

Out of 36 evaluated samples, 26 (72.2%) samples belonged to G1, and 10 (27.8%) samples belonged to the G3 genotype. Out of 21 samples from Turkey, 16 (76.2%) were G1 and 5 (23.8%) were G3, while out of 15 samples from Iran, 10 (66.7%) were G1 and 5 (33.3%) were the G3 genotype. None of the samples isolated from humans in Iran or from sheep in Turkey were G3. Overall, between the two countries, 18.18% of E. granulosus isolates in cattle, 41.66% of isolates in sheep, and 23.07% of human samples were identified as G3, and the others as the G1 genotype. The G3 genotype was not detected in human samples from Iran or sheep samples from Turkey.

Conclusion

The findings of the study revealed that the G1 genotype of E. granulosus s.s. is the predominant genotype in humans and livestock, both in Turkey and Iran. The ratio of the E. granulosus s.s. G1 to G3 genotype was 3.2 in Turkey and 2 in Iran. The study also further confirmed that the nad5 gene properly differentiated the G1/G3 isolates of E. granulosus from both humans and livestock.

Graphical Abstract