bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical, Prognostic, and Predictive Value of Olfactory Dysfunction for COVID‐19: A Prospective Controlled Study
Authors: Kavaz Esra , Tahir Emel , Kurnaz Senem Çengel , Deveci Aydın , Tanyel Esra Aksakal
Published: November 2021

Objective

To evaluate the effect of olfactory dysfunction on the course and severity of COVID‐19 and its prognostic and predictive significance for COVID‐19.

Study Design

Prospective case‐control study.

Setting

Ondokuz Mayıs University School of Medicine.

Methods

Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–positive patients, patients with COVID‐19–related symptoms who had a negative PCR result, and healthy controls were included in the study. Clinicodemographic characteristics, inflammatory markers, and computed tomography stages were recorded. Disease progression and intensive care unit admission were registered. The visual analog scale (0, worst; 10, best) was used to evaluate subjective olfactory, taste, and nasal breathing ability, and the Sniffin’ Sticks identification (SS‐ID) test was used for psychophysical olfactory assessment.

Results

Mean SS‐ID scores were significantly lower in the positive group (8.77) than in the negative (10.43) and healthy control (12.17) groups. VAS‐smell scores were significantly lower and anosmia was more prevalent in PCR‐positive patients (P <. 01). SS‐ID and VAS‐smell scores were significantly correlated (r = 0.681, P <. 001). The inflammatory parameters, pulmonary infiltration stage, disease progression, and ICU admission were not associated with SS‐ID scores. A cutoff SS‐ID score <9 resulted in 55.56% sensitivity in predicting COVID‐19 positivity, and a cutoff VAS‐smell score <8 yielded 72.22% sensitivity.

Conclusion

Olfactory dysfunction was detected objectively and subjectively in the PCR‐positive group, and no difference was found in terms of taste function and nasal breathing. The severity and prognosis of COVID‐19 are not exclusively dependent on olfactory dysfunction. The degree of olfactory dysfunction can be useful in predicting PCR positivity.
Feline parasites and the emergence of feline lungworm in the Portland metropolitan area, Oregon, USA 2016–2017
Authors: Bishop Greg T , DeBess Emilio
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of internal parasites in feral and free-roaming owned cats in the region of Portland, Oregon, USA.

Methods

Fecal samples from asymptomatic cats were opportunistically collected from feral cats presented for surgical sterilization (n = 46), as well as free-roaming owned cats (n = 86) presented to primary care clinics. Fecal analysis was performed using the Baermann technique, centrifugal flotation, fluorescent auramine and fluorescent antibody for Giardia species.

Results

Lungworm infection was identified in 24.2% of owned cats and 17.2% of feral cats. At least 11 unique parasite species were identified in this study. Taenia species and Toxocara cati were identified in higher proportions in feral cats, whereas Giardia species were significantly higher in owned cats.

Conclusions and relevance

The prevalence of lungworm was higher than has been previously documented in other areas of the USA. In addition, feral cats were infected with a higher percentage of Toxocara species and Taenia but a significantly lower percentage of Giardia species.
Prevention of recurrent thrombotic events in children with central venous catheter-associated venous thrombosis
Authors: Clark Helen Havens , Ballester Lance , Whitworth Hilary , Raffini Leslie , Witmer Char
Published: November 2021

Central venous catheters (CVC) are the most significant risk factor for pediatric venous thromboembolism (VTE). After an index CVC-associated VTE (CVC-VTE), the role of secondary prophylaxis for subsequent CVC placement is uncertain. Aims of this single-center retrospective study were to evaluate the efficacy of secondary prophylaxis for patients with a prior CVC-VTE and identify risk factors associated with recurrent VTE in patients less than 19 years with an index CVC-VTE between 2003 and 2013. Data collection included clinical and demographic factors, subsequent CVC placement, secondary prophylaxis strategy, recurrent VTE, and bleeding. Risk factors for recurrence and effectiveness of secondary prophylaxis were evaluated using survival and binomial models. Among 373 patients with an index CVC-VTE, 239 (64.1%) had subsequent CVC placement; 17.4% (65/373) of patients had recurrent VTE, of which 90.8% (59/65) were CVC-associated. On multivariable survival analysis, each additional CVC (hazards ratio [HR] 12.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.78-51.91), congenital heart disease (HR 3.70; 95% CI 1.97-6.95), and total parenteral nutrition dependence (HR 4.02; 95% CI 2.23-7.28) were associated with an increased hazard of recurrence. Full dose anticoagulation for secondary prophylaxis was associated with decreased odds of recurrent CVC-VTE (odds ratio [OR] 0.35; 95% CI 0.19-0.65) but not prophylactic dosing (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.28-1.30). Only 1.3% of CVCs experienced major bleeding with prophylactic or full-dose anticoagulation. In summary, children with CVC-VTE are at increased risk for recurrent VTE. Secondary prophylaxis with full-dose anticoagulation was associated with a 65% reduction in odds of thrombotic events.
Decreased IL-10 accelerates B-cell leukemia/lymphoma in a mouse model of pediatric lymphoid leukemia
Authors: Fitch Briana A. , Zhou Mi , Situ Jamilla , Surianarayanan Sangeetha , Reeves Melissa Q. , Hermiston Michelle L. , Wiemels Joseph L. , Kogan Scott C.
Published: November 2021

Exposures to a wide repertoire of common childhood infections and strong inflammatory responses to those infections are associated with the risk of pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) in opposing directions. Neonatal inflammatory markers are also related to risk by unknown mechanism(s). Here, we demonstrate that interleukin-10 (IL-10) deficiency, which is associated with childhood B-ALL, indirectly impairs B lymphopoiesis and increases B-cell DNA damage in association with a module of 6 proinflammatory/myeloid-associated cytokines (IL-1α, IL-6, IL-12p40, IL-13, macrophage inflammatory protein-1β/CCL4, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor). Importantly, antibiotics attenuated inflammation and B-cell defects in preleukemic Cdkn2a−/−Il10−/− mice. In an ETV6-RUNX1+ (E6R1+) Cdkn2a−/− mouse model of B-ALL, decreased levels of IL-10 accelerated B-cell neoplasms in a dose-dependent manner and altered the mutational profile of these neoplasms. Our results illuminate a mechanism through which a low level of IL-10 can create a risk for leukemic transformation and support developing evidence that microbial dysbiosis contributes to pediatric B-ALL.
American Society of Hematology living guidelines on the use of anticoagulation for thromboprophylaxis in patients with COVID-19: July 2021 update on postdischarge thromboprophylaxis
Authors: Cuker Adam , Tseng Eric K. , Nieuwlaat Robby , Angchaisuksiri Pantep , Blair Clifton , Dane Kathryn , Davila Jennifer , DeSancho Maria T. , Diuguid David , Griffin Daniel O. , Kahn Susan R. , Klok Frederikus A. , Lee Alfred Ian , Neumann Ignacio , Pai Ashok , Righini Marc , Sanfilippo Kristen M. , Siegal Deborah , Skara Mike , Terrell Deirdra R. , Touri Kamshad , Akl Elie A. , Al Jabiri Reyad Nayif , Al Jabiri Yazan Nayif , Barbara Angela M. , Bognanni Antonio , Bou Akl Imad , Boulos Mary , Brignardello-Petersen Romina , Charide Rana , Chan Matthew , Colunga-Lozano Luis E. , Dearness Karin , Darzi Andrea J. , Hussein Heba , Karam Samer G. , Kolb Philipp , Mansour Razan , Morgano Gian Paolo , Morsi Rami Z. , Muti-Schünemann Giovanna , Nadim Menatalla K. , Noori Atefeh , Philip Binu A. , Piggott Thomas , Qiu Yuan , Benitez Yetiani Roldan , Schünemann Finn , Stevens Adrienne , Solo Karla , Wiercioch Wojtek , Mustafa Reem A. , Schünemann Holger J.
Published: November 2021

Background

COVID-19–related acute illness is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Objective

These evidence-based guidelines of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) are intended to support patients, clinicians, and other health care professionals in decisions about the use of anticoagulation for thromboprophylaxis in patients with COVID-19 who do not have confirmed or suspected VTE.

Methods

ASH formed a multidisciplinary guideline panel, including 3 patient representatives, and applied strategies to minimize potential bias from conflicts of interest. The McMaster University GRADE Centre supported the guideline development process, including performing systematic evidence reviews (up to March 2021). The panel prioritized clinical questions and outcomes according to their importance for clinicians and patients. The panel used the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) approach to assess evidence and make recommendations, which were subject to public comment.

Results

The panel agreed on 1 additional recommendation. The panel issued a conditional recommendation against the use of outpatient anticoagulant prophylaxis in patients with COVID-19 who are discharged from the hospital and who do not have suspected or confirmed VTE or another indication for anticoagulation.

Conclusions

This recommendation was based on very low certainty in the evidence, underscoring the need for high-quality randomized controlled trials assessing the role of postdischarge thromboprophylaxis. Other key research priorities include better evidence on assessing risk of thrombosis and bleeding outcomes in patients with COVID-19 after hospital discharge.
Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator-related metabolic syndrome/cystic fibrosis screen positive, inconclusive diagnosis (CRMS/CFSPID)
Authors: Sinha Aditi , Southern Kevin W.
Published: November 2021

Newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) for cystic fibrosis (CF) is an effective strategy for the early recognition of infants with a CF diagnosis. Some infants with a positive NBS result for CF have an inconclusive diagnosis and evidence suggests the number of these infants is increasing, as more extensive gene analysis is integrated into screening protocols. There is an internationally agreed, but complex, designation for infants with an unclear diagnosis after a positive screening result: cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-related metabolic syndrome/cystic fibrosis screen positive, inconclusive diagnosis (CRMS/CFSPID). Infants with a CRMS/CFSPID designation have no clinical evidence of disease and do not meet the criteria for a CF diagnosis, but the NBS result indicates some risk of developing CF or a CFTR-related disorder. In this review, we describe the accurate designation of these and reflect on emerging management pathways, with particular attention given to clear and consistent communication.

Educational aims

To clarify the definition of the global harmonised designation: cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator-related metabolic syndrome (CRMS)/cystic fibrosis screen positive, inconclusive diagnosis (CFSPID).

To understand what impact a CRMS/CFSPID result has for the patient and their family.
The genome of New Zealand trevally (Carangidae: Pseudocaranx georgianus) uncovers a XY sex determination locus
Authors: Catanach Andrew , Ruigrok Mike , Bowatte Deepa , Davy Marcus , Storey Roy , Valenza-Troubat Noémie , López-Girona Elena , Hilario Elena , Wylie Matthew J. , Chagné David , Wellenreuther Maren
Published: November 2021

Background

The genetic control of sex determination in teleost species is poorly understood. This is partly because of the diversity of mechanisms that determine sex in this large group of vertebrates, including constitutive genes linked to sex chromosomes, polygenic constitutive mechanisms, environmental factors, hermaphroditism, and unisexuality. Here we use a de novo genome assembly of New Zealand silver trevally (Pseudocaranx georgianus) together with sex-specific whole genome sequencing data to detect sexually divergent genomic regions, identify candidate genes and develop molecular makers.

Results

The de novo assembly of an unsexed trevally (Trevally_v1) resulted in a final assembly of 579.4 Mb in length, with a N50 of 25.2 Mb. Of the assembled scaffolds, 24 were of chromosome scale, ranging from 11 to 31 Mb in length. A total of 28,416 genes were annotated after 12.8 % of the assembly was masked with repetitive elements. Whole genome re-sequencing of 13 wild sexed trevally (seven males and six females) identified two sexually divergent regions located on two scaffolds, including a 6 kb region at the proximal end of chromosome 21. Blast analyses revealed similarity between one region and the aromatase genes cyp19 (a1a/b) (E-value < 1.00E-25, identity > 78.8 %). Males contained higher numbers of heterozygous variants in both regions, while females showed regions of very low read-depth, indicative of male-specificity of this genomic region. Molecular markers were developed and subsequently tested on 96 histologically-sexed fish (42 males and 54 females). Three markers amplified in absolute correspondence with sex (positive in males, negative in females).

Conclusions

The higher number of heterozygous variants in males combined with the absence of these regions in females support a XY sex-determination model, indicating that the trevally_v1 genome assembly was developed from a male specimen. This sex system contrasts with the ZW sex-determination model documented in closely related carangid species. Our results indicate a sex-determining function of a cyp19a1a-like gene, suggesting the molecular pathway of sex determination is somewhat conserved in this family. The genomic resources developed here will facilitate future comparative work, and enable improved insights into the varied sex determination pathways in teleosts. The sex marker developed in this study will be a valuable resource for aquaculture selective breeding programmes, and for determining sex ratios in wild populations.
Sarcopenia is associated with decreased gray matter volume in the parietal lobe: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Yu Ji Hee , Kim Regina E. Y. , Jung Jin-Man , Park So Young , Lee Da Young , Cho Hyun Joo , Kim Nam Hoon , Yoo Hye Jin , Seo Ji A , Kim Sin Gon , Choi Kyung Mook , Baik Sei Hyun , Shin Chol , Kim Nan Hee
Published: November 2021

Background

Substantial evidence supports an association between physical activity and cognitive function. However, the role of muscle mass and function in brain structural changes is not well known. This study investigated whether sarcopenia, defined as low muscle mass and strength, accelerates brain volume atrophy.

Methods

A total of 1284 participants with sarcopenic measurements and baseline and 4-year follow-up brain magnetic resonance images were recruited from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. Muscle mass was represented as appendicular skeletal muscle mass divided by the body mass index. Muscle function was measured by handgrip strength. The low mass and strength groups were defined as being in the lowest quintile of each variable for one’s sex. Sarcopenia was defined as being in the lowest quintile for both muscle mass and handgrip strength.

Results

Of the 1284 participants, 12·6%, 10·8%, and 5·4% were classified as the low mass, low strength, and sarcopenia groups, respectively. The adjusted mean changes of gray matter (GM) volume during 4-year follow-up period were − 9·6 mL in the control group, whereas − 11·6 mL in the other three groups (P < 0·001). The significantly greater atrophy in parietal GM was observed in the sarcopenia group compared with the control group. In a joint regression model, low muscle mass, but not muscle strength, was an independent factor associated with a decrease of GM volume.

Conclusions

Sarcopenia is associated with parietal GM volume atrophy, in a middle-aged population. Maintaining good levels of muscle mass could be important for brain health in later adulthood.
Persistent intrathecal interleukin-8 production in a patient with SARS-CoV-2-related encephalopathy presenting aphasia: a case report.
Authors: Kudo Takuya , Hayashi Yuichi , Kunieda Kenjiro , Yoshikura Nobuaki , Kimura Akio , Otsuki Mika , Shimohata Takayoshi
Published: November 2021

Background

Neurological manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are increasingly recognized and include encephalopathy, although direct infection of the brain by SARS-CoV-2 remains controversial. We herein report the clinical course and cytokine profiles of a patient with severe SARS-CoV-2-related encephalopathy presenting aphasia.

Case presentation

An 81-year-old man developed acute consciousness disturbance and status epileptics several days after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Following treatment with remdesivir and dexamethasone, his consciousness and epileptic seizures improved; however, amnestic aphasia and agraphia remained. Two months after methylprednisolone pulse and intravenous immunoglobulin, his neurological deficits improved. We found increased levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), but not IL-2 and IL-10 in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and the levels of serum IL-6 and MCP-1 were much higher than those in the CSF. The level of IL-8 in the CSF after immunotherapy was four times higher than that before immunotherapy.

Conclusion

The cytokine profile of our patient was similar to that seen in severe SARS-CoV-2-related encephalopathy. We demonstrated (i) that the characteristic aphasia can occur as a focal neurological deficit associated with SARS-CoV-2-related encephalopathy, and (ii) that IL8-mediated central nervous system inflammation follows systemic inflammation in SARS-CoV-2-related encephalopathy and can persist and worsen even after immunotherapy. Monitoring IL-8 in CSF, and long-term corticosteroids may be required for treating SARS-CoV-2-related encephalopathy.
Does adjusting for biological maturity when calculating child weight status improve the accuracy of predicting future health risk?
Authors: Gillison Fiona B. , Grey Elisabeth B. , Cumming Sean P. , Sherar Lauren B.
Published: November 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to assess whether adjusting the weight categorisation of children for their biological maturity status could improve the accuracy of predicting weight status and cardiometabolic risk at age 17.

Methods

Data from 1525 participants (787 female) from the ALSPAC study were analysed. Participants’ weight status at age 11 was estimated using first standard chronological age and sex adjusted BMI cut-offs, and again using maturity adjusted BMI cut-offs. Each BMI category at age 11 was regressed against cardiometabolic risk score and BMI category at age 17, controlling for sex, ethnicity and socio-economic status.

Results

At age 11 years, 22% of boys and 46% of girls who were categorised as overweight or having obesity based on chronological age were re-categorised into a lower BMI category after adjusting for biological maturity. Biologically adjusted BMI categories better predicted BMI category at age 17 compared with non-adjusted BMI categories (∆BIC = − 21.69); the odds of having obesity at age 17 were 18.28 times greater with each increase in BMI category at age 11. Adjusted and non-adjusted BMI status at 11 years showed equivalent accuracy in predicting cardiometabolic risk at age 17; the odds ratio of high cardiometabolic risk was 1.85, with heightened risk in boys, particularly early maturers.

Conclusion

The traditional method of categorising adolescents into a BMI category may over-predict overweight and obesity, particularly in girls. Adjusting for biological maturity when estimating weight status through calculating adolescents’ BMI classification was equivalent to standard approaches in predicting other cardiovascular risk at age 17.
Utilization of HIV testing and counselling services by women with disabilities during antenatal care in Uganda: analysis of 2016 demographic and health survey
Authors: Zandam Hussaini , Akobirshoev Ilhom , Nandakumar Allyala , Mitra Monika
Published: November 2021

Background

HIV testing and counselling during antenatal care (ANC) is critical for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV. We investigated disparity in utilization of HIV testing and counselling services (HTC) between women with and without disabilities in Uganda.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study using the nationally representative 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey. The study sampled 10,073 women between age 15–49 who had a live birth in the last 5 years. We estimated unadjusted and adjusted odds ratio for receiving pre-test HIV counselling, obtaining an HIV test result, and post-test HIV counselling by disability status using logistic regressions.

Results

We found that women with disabilities were less likely to receive pre-test HIV counselling (59.6 vs 52.4), obtain an HIV test result (68.2 vs 61.4), receive post-test HIV counselling (55.5 vs 51.6), and all HTC services (49.2 vs 43.5). From the regression analysis, women with disabilities were less likely to receive pre-test counselling [AOR = 0.83; CI = 0.74, 0.93] and obtain an HIV test result [AOR = 0.88; CI = 0.78, 0.99].

Conclusions

Our findings revealed that women with disabilities are less likely to receive HTC service during ANC and highlighted the need for disability-inclusive HIV and reproductive health services. Government, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders should consider funding inclusive campaigns and identifying other mechanisms for disseminating health information and behavioral interventions to women with disabilities.
Clinical outcome of laparoscopic versus robot-assisted radical cystectomy for patients with bladder cancer: a retrospective study
Authors: Bai Yuchen , Wang Shuai , Zheng Wei , Li EnHui , Quan Jing , Wei Fei , Zhang Qi , Qi XiaoLong , Zhang DaHong
Published: November 2021

Background

With the development of minimally invasive surgery technology, patients with bladder cancer are increasingly receiving laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) or robotic-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) treatment. The main purpose of this study was to compare the long-term outcomes of bladder cancer patients treated with LRC versus RARC.

Methods

A retrospective study to identify patients with clinical stage Ta/T1/Tis to T3 bladder cancer who underwent RARC or LRC has been performed. The perioperative outcome, recurrence, and overall survival (OS) of the two surgical methods were compared.

Results

218 patients were identified from March 2010 to December 2019 in our department, which including 82 (38%) patients who received LRC and 136 (62%) patients who received RARC. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of lymph node collection, lymph node positive rate, resection margin positive rate, and postoperative pathological staging. Compared with the LRC group, patients in the RARC group had a median estimated blood loss (180 vs. 250 ml; P = 0.02) and reduced complications at 90 days postoperatively (30.8% vs. 46.3%; P = 0.01). Recurrence, all-cause death, and cancer-specific death occurred in 77 (35%), 55 (25%), and 39 (18%) patients, respectively. The 5-year OS rate was 54.63% and 54.65% in the RARC and LRC group (P > 0.05). The 5-year cancer-specific survival (CSS) rate was 73.32% and 61.55% in RARC and LRC group (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in OS [hazard ratio (HR) 1.083, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.626–1.874; P = 0.78], and CSS (HR 0.789, 95%CI 0.411–1.515; P = 0.61) between two groups.

Conclusions

Both RARC and LRC were safe and effective with a similar long-term clinical outcomes. Moreover, RARC had significantly lower median estimated blood loss and reduced postoperative complications.
Oral reactive capillary hemangiomas induced by SHR-1210 in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhou Jinhan , Mao Qinghua , Li Yining , Li Zhiyong , He Hong , Chen Qianming , Liu Chuanxia
Published: November 2021

Background

Antibodies to PD-1 and PD-L1 have remarkably improved the overall survival of many patients with advanced solid tumors. SHR-1210 is an anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody. Dermatologic reactive capillary hemangiomas (RCH) were the most common and unique drug-related AEs of SHR-1210, but rare on oral mucosa and gastrointestinal mucosa. Herein we report a case of RCH occurred in oral mucosa during the clinical trials of SHR-1210 in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

Case presentation

A male in his 60 s with a history of non-small cell lung cancer received injection of anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies SHR-1210. The patient developed drug-related RCH on skin after the first injection and began to have gingival hyperplasia one year after the first injection which gradually increased in size and affect eating and speaking. Anti-PD-1 treatments were continued. After periodontal treatment, two oral lesions and one skin lesion were surgically removed. Similar histological manifestation was found in all three lesions as reactive capillary hemangiomas. All lesions had a good prognosis without recurrence on oral mucosa within one year after surgery.

Conclusions

Oral reactive capillary hemangiomas could be induced by SHR-1210 in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Surgical resection is an effective treatment with a good prognosis.
CircRFX3 contributes to glioma progression through the circRFX3-miR-1179/miR-1229-VASP axis
Authors: Li Hongli , Zhang Yiwei , Song Huiqin , Li Li
Published: November 2021

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are implicated in the carcinogenesis of human cancers. However, the functional roles of circRFX3 in glioma are not elucidated.

Methods

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay was performed for the levels of circRFX3, RFX3, miR-1179, miR-1229 and vasodilator stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP). Actinomycin D assay and RNase R assay were employed to analyze the characteristics of circRFX3. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and colony formation assay were conducted for cell proliferation. Transwell assay was used for cell migration and invasion. Flow cytometry analysis was adopted for cell apoptosis. RNA pull-down assay, dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were employed to analyze the interaction between miR-1179/miR-1229 and circRFX3 or VASP. Western blot assay was conducted for VASP protein level. Murine xenograft model assay was used to investigate the role of circRFX3 in vivo.

Results

CircRFX3 level was increased in glioma tissues and cells. Knockdown of circRFX3 suppressed glioma cell proliferation, migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis in vitro and repressed tumorigenesis of glioma in vivo. MiR-1179 and miR-1229 were identified to be the targets of circRFX3. MiR-1179 or miR-1229 inhibition reversed the impacts of circRFX3 knockdown on glioma cell malignant behaviors. Additionally, VASP was demonstrated to be the target gene of miR-1179 and miR-1229, and VASP overexpression abolished the effect of circRFX3 knockdown on glioma cell progression.

Conclusion

CircRFX3 served as a tumor promoter in glioma via modulating miR-1179/miR-1229-VASP axis, which might provide a novel target for glioma therapy.
Diverse biological and engineering strategies towards organ regeneration
Authors: Hou Junjie , Zhou Qinchao , Zhu Xiaojun , Peng Jinrong , Xiong Jing-Wei
Published: November 2021

Organ regeneration is an important, fascinating, and old topic while much remains unknown in spite of extensive investigations for decades. From March 25th to 27th, 2021, the Third Chinese Symposium on Organ Regeneration took place in the beautiful ocean city of Zhoushan, Zhejiang, China. This biennial conference attracted ~ 300 academic attendees: students, postdoctoral fellows, and principal investigators, in addition to few industrial investigators. The mixed live and virtual talks covered the broad field of organ regeneration from different animal organisms to human organoids, and concluded with some impressive advances on inflammatory signaling, regenerative signaling mechanisms, new technologies, and applications for organ regeneration.
Framing agricultural policy through the EC’s strategies on CAP reforms (1992–2017)
Authors: Erjavec Karmen , Erjavec Emil
Published: November 2021

The periodic reforms of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) are announced each time by a strategic document in the form of a Communication by the European Commission (EC). The content of the last Communication differs from previous ones, which raises the questions of what frames the EC has employed with respect to its CAP reforms and how these frames have been modified over the past 26 years (from 1991 to 2017) in order to legitimise the preservation of the CAP. This paper tries to fill the gap in the research of frames in the main strategic documents on the CAP by employing comparative historical framing analysis. The results show consistent use of five frames: the policy mechanism frame, farmers’ economic frame, foreign trade frame, budgetary frame, and the societal concerns frame. While they have all remained in use, most have been changed significantly over the years. Throughout the analysed period, the farmers’ economic frame has retained its primacy and continuity, demonstrating the power of the farmers’ lobbies and conservative member states. If in the initial Communications the environment was barely present within the societal concerns frame, it has gained importance in the recent Communications, in addition to other general societal issues, such as climate change, food security and quality, health, digitalisation, innovation, and even migration. By marginalising the policy mechanism frame and replacing it with the implementation model and increasingly emphasising the societal concerns frame with social justifications of the CAP, the EC is trying to legitimise the CAP after 2021.
Quantitative sequencing clarifies the role of disruptor taxa, oral microbiota, and strict anaerobes in the human small-intestine microbiome
Authors: Barlow Jacob T. , Leite Gabriela , Romano Anna E. , Sedighi Rashin , Chang Christine , Celly Shreya , Rezaie Ali , Mathur Ruchi , Pimentel Mark , Ismagilov Rustem F.
Published: November 2021

Background

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and abdominal pain afflict between 12 and 30% of the worldwide population and research suggests these conditions are linked to the gut microbiome. Although large-intestine microbiota have been linked to several GI diseases, the microbiota of the human small intestine and its relation to human disease has been understudied. The small intestine is the major site for immune surveillance in the gut, and compared with the large intestine, it has greater than 100 times the surface area and a thinner and more permeable mucus layer.

Results

Using quantitative sequencing, we evaluated total and taxon-specific absolute microbial loads from 250 duodenal-aspirate samples and 21 paired duodenum-saliva samples from participants in the REIMAGINE study. Log-transformed total microbial loads spanned 5 logs and were normally distributed. Paired saliva-duodenum samples suggested potential transmission of oral microbes to the duodenum, including organisms from the HACEK group. Several taxa, including Klebsiella, Escherichia, Enterococcus, and Clostridium, seemed to displace strict anaerobes common in the duodenum, so we refer to these taxa as disruptors. Disruptor taxa were enriched in samples with high total microbial loads and in individuals with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Absolute loads of disruptors were associated with more severe GI symptoms, highlighting the value of absolute taxon quantification when studying small-intestine health and function.

Conclusion

This study provides the largest dataset of the absolute abundance of microbiota from the human duodenum to date. The results reveal a clear relationship between the oral microbiota and the duodenal microbiota and suggest an association between the absolute abundance of disruptor taxa, SIBO, and the prevalence of severe GI symptoms.
M﻿etagenomic insights into the microbial communities of inert and oligotrophic outdoor pier surfaces of a coastal city
Authors: Tong Xinzhao , Leung Marcus H. Y. , Shen Zhiyong , Lee Justin Y. Y. , Mason Christopher E. , Lee Patrick K. H.
Published: November 2021

Background

Studies of the microbiomes on surfaces in built environment have largely focused on indoor spaces, while outdoor spaces have received far less attention. Piers are engineered infrastructures commonly found in coastal areas, and due to their unique locations at the interface between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, pier surfaces are likely to harbor interesting microbiology. In this study, the microbiomes on the metal and concrete surfaces at nine piers located along the coastline of Hong Kong were investigated by metagenomic sequencing. The roles played by different physical attributes and environmental factors in shaping the taxonomic composition and functional traits of the pier surface microbiomes were determined. Metagenome-assembled genomes were reconstructed and their putative biosynthetic gene clusters were characterized in detail.

Results

Surface material was found to be the strongest factor in structuring the taxonomic and functional compositions of the pier surface microbiomes. Corrosion-related bacteria were significantly enriched on metal surfaces, consistent with the pitting corrosion observed. The differential enrichment of taxa mediating biodegradation suggests differences between the metal and concrete surfaces in terms of specific xenobiotics being potentially degraded. Genome-centric analysis detected the presence of many novel species, with the majority of them belonging to the phylum Proteobacteria. Genomic characterization showed that the potential metabolic functions and secondary biosynthetic capacity were largely correlated with taxonomy, rather than surface attributes and geography.

Conclusions

Pier surfaces are a rich reservoir of abundant novel bacterial species. Members of the surface microbial communities use different mechanisms to counter the stresses under oligotrophic conditions. A better understanding of the outdoor surface microbiomes located in different environments should enhance the ability to maintain outdoor surfaces of infrastructures.
Enhanced cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT-E) for severe and extreme anorexia nervosa in an outpatient eating disorder unit at a public hospital: a quality-assessment study
Authors: Frostad Stein , Calugi Simona , Engen Caroline B. N. , Dalle Grave Riccardo
Published: November 2021

Background

The aim of this quality-assessment study was to determine the outcome of patients with severe and extreme anorexia nervosa (AN) in a real-world outpatient setting.

Methods

Twenty-one adults with AN and a body mass index (BMI) of < 16 were recruited from consecutive referrals to an outpatient clinic at a public hospital in Western Norway. All enrolled patients were provided with enhanced cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT-E) to treat their AN, commencing between January 2013 and December 2016. Their BMI was recorded at baseline, at the end of CBT-E and 1 year after the end of treatment.

Results

Ten patients completed the CBT-E treatment and achieved a large weight gain with the change remaining stable at follow-up. Eleven patients did not complete the treatment but had a significant increase in BMI at the premature end of treatment. One year after end of therapy 14/21 (66.7%) of the patients had BMI above 18.5 kg/m2. No severe complications were observed during therapy.

Conclusions

Although 52.4% of the patients did not complete outpatient CBT-E, the findings of this quality-assessment study support previous findings indicating that CBT-E may represent a valid alternative to inpatient treatment in patients with severe and extreme AN.
Language proficiency analysis of Turkish children from high-income and highly educated families aged 5 in Antalya
Authors: Pınar Yunus , Ünal Fatma , Pınar Nihal Kubilay
Published: November 2021

In this study, we examine the mother tongue proficiency of pre-school children from high-income and highly educated families in Antalya, Turkey. The study used the Turkish version of the Hamburger Instrument for the Analysis of the Language Level of 5-year olds (HAVAS 5) linguistic-level diagnostic tool that is originally employed to form the basis of individually customized language support programs. The study group of this research was made up of 41 pre-school children (n= 41; 29 boys, 12 girls). Furthermore, a semi-structured interview (SSI) form was developed by the authors and finally conducted with 3 mothers and their husbands (n=6). Our study results show that the majority of the children (33/41) from high-income and highly educated families showed an advanced level of language proficiency especially in the realm of vocabulary acquisition. In particular, the children were observed to be self-confident when using their mother tongue and that they did not hesitate to take initiatives during the HAVAS 5 storytellings. Our qualitative results suggest also that a small group of children who are either introverts or having lower level language proficiency may have a specific trait, condition or characteristic. Based on the data from interviews, emotional atmosphere of the family, parenting styles, speech sound disorder (SSD) or excessive screen-based media use might reasonably be suspected of having some influence on mother tongue proficiency.
Assessing Iranian EFL teachers’ educational performance based on gender and years of teaching experience
Authors: Mashhadlou Haleh , Izadpanah Siros
Published: November 2021

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the assessment of Iranian English teachers’ performance. Besides, it was aimed to examine and compare the performance of teachers based on their gender differences and teaching experience. To the first aim, the Delphi technique was used to develop a questionnaire and the reliability of the Delphi questionnaire based on Cronbach’s alpha was .982. In the first round, 25 experts including university lecturers and experienced instructors in the field of English teaching were asked to answer open-ended questions regarding important issues in the evaluation of an English teacher. Then, the related themes emerged. Using emerged themes, a questionnaire including 100 questions was designed and measured on a linear scale (1 = not important to 5 = absolutely essential). After calculating the frequency of each item, the results were resent to the panel to rate the questions. In the last phase, three criteria including 1—the mean 4 and more, 2—standard deviation less than 1, 3—less than 10% of the participants do not answer to the item were considered to decide on the final questions and components of the questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed using Google forms. One hundred and fifty questionnaires were filled correctly and analyzed using SPSS 22. Then, the validity of questionnaire was checked. Overall, it was seen that there was not any significant difference between teachers’ performance based on gender difference and teaching experience. The findings of the present study might have some implications for researchers, instructors, language teachers, school administrators, and the ministry of education.
P62 accumulates through neuroanatomical circuits in response to tauopathy propagation
Authors: Blaudin de Thé François-Xavier , Lassus Benjamin , Schaler Ari W. , Fowler Stephanie L. , Goulbourne Chris N. , Jeggo Ross , Mannoury la Cour Clotilde , Millan Mark J. , Duff Karen E.
Published: November 2021

In Alzheimer’s disease and related tauopathies, trans-synaptic transfer and accumulation of pathological tau from donor to recipient neurons is thought to contribute to disease progression, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Using complementary in vivo and in vitro models, we examined the relationship between these two processes and neuronal clearance. Accumulation of p62 (a marker of defective protein clearance) correlated with pathological tau accumulation in two mouse models of tauopathy spread; Entorhinal Cortex-tau (EC-Tau) mice where tau pathology progresses in time from EC to other brain regions, and PS19 mice injected with tau seeds. In both models and in several brain regions, p62 colocalized with human tau in a pathological conformation (MC1 antibody). In EC-Tau mice, p62 accumulated before overt tau pathology had developed and was associated with the presence of aggregation-competent tau seeds identified using a FRET-based assay. Furthermore, p62 accumulated in the cytoplasm of neurons in the dentate gyrus of EC-Tau mice prior to the appearance of MC1 positive tauopathy. However, MC1 positive tau was shown to be present at the synapse and to colocalize with p62 as shown by immuno electron microscopy. In vitro, p62 colocalized with tau inclusions in two primary cortical neuron models of tau pathology. In a three-chamber microfluidic device containing neurons overexpressing fluorescent tau, seeding of tau in the donor chamber led to tau pathology spread and p62 accumulation in both the donor and the recipient chamber. Overall, these data are in accordance with the hypothesis that the accumulation and trans-synaptic spread of pathological tau disrupts clearance mechanisms, preceding the appearance of obvious tau aggregation. A vicious cycle of tau accumulation and clearance deficit would be expected to feed-forward and exacerbate disease progression across neuronal circuits in human tauopathies.
Dynasty recognition algorithm of an adaptive enhancement capsule network for ancient mural images
Authors: Cao Jianfang , Yan Minmin , Chen Huiming , Tian Xiaodong , Ma Shang
Published: November 2021

In view of the polysemy of mural images and the style difference among mural images painted in different dynasties as well as the high energy costs of the traditional manual dynasty classification method, which resorts to mural texts and historical documents, this study proposed an adaptive enhancement capsule network (AECN) for automatic dynasty identification of mural images. Based on the original capsule network, we introduced a preconvolution structure to extract the high-level features of the mural images from Mogao Grottoes, such as color and texture. Then, we added an even activation operation to the layers of the network to enhance the fitting performance of the model. Finally, we performed adaptive modifications on the capsule network to increase the gradient smoothness of the model, based on which to optimize the model and thus to increase its classification precision. With the self-constructed DH1926 data set as the study subject, the proposed model achieved an accuracy of 84.44%, an average precision of 82.36%, an average recall rate of 83.75% and a comprehensive assessment score F1 of 83.96%. Compared with modified convolution neural networks and the original capsule network, the model proposed in study increased all the considered indices by more than 3%. It has a satisfactory fitting performance, which can extract the rich features of mural images at multiple levels and well express their semantic information. Furthermore, it has a higher accuracy and better robustness in the classification of the Mogao Grottoes murals, and therefore is of certain application values and research significance.
A hybrid machine learning method for increasing the performance of network intrusion detection systems
Authors: Megantara Achmad Akbar , Ahmad Tohari
Published: November 2021

The internet has grown enormously for many years. It is not just connecting computer networks but also a group of devices worldwide involving big data. The internet provides an opportunity to make various innovations for any sector, such as education, health, public facility, financial technology, and digital commerce. Despite its advantages, the internet may contain dangerous activities and cyber-attacks that may happen to anyone connected through the internet. To detect any cyber-attack intrudes on the network system, an intrusion detection system (IDS) is applied, which can identify those incoming attacks. The intrusion detection system works in two mechanisms: signature-based detection and anomaly-based detection. In anomaly-based detection, the quality of the machine learning model obtained is influenced by the data training process. The biggest challenge of machine learning methods is how to build an appropriate model to represent the dataset. This research proposes a hybrid machine learning method by combining the feature selection method, representing the supervised learning and data reduction method as the unsupervised learning to build an appropriate model. It works by selecting relevant and significant features using feature importance decision tree-based method with recursive feature elimination and detecting anomaly/outlier data using the Local Outlier Factor (LOF) method. The experimental results show that the proposed method achieves the highest accuracy in detecting R2L (i.e., 99.89%) and keeps higher for other attack types than most other research in the NSL-KDD dataset. Therefore, it has a more stable performance than the others. More challenges are experienced in the UNSW-NB15 dataset with binary classes.
Achieving coronal plane alignment in total knee arthroplasty through modified preoperative planning based on long-leg radiographs: a prospective study
Authors: Singh Daria , Patel Kalpeshkumar C. , Singh Ragini D.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This prospective study was undertaken to examine whether the desired coronal plane alignment of limb and prosthetic components in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) could be achieved precisely using conventional jig-based methods by modifying the preoperative planning of bone resection utilizing long-leg radiographs (LLRs).

Methods

The study included consecutive 245 TKA procedures. Pre- and postoperative radiological variables, i.e., the mechanical axis (hip-knee-ankle [HKA] axis), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), and medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and their outliers were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0.

Results

The mean postoperative HKA axis, mLDFA and MPTA was 179.80 ± 1.81° (p < 0.01; 95% CI: 8.09–9.67), 90.35 ± 1.54° (p < 0.01; 95% CI: 1.33–2.02), and 90.26 ± 1.25° (p < 0.01; 95% CI: 4.41–5.20), respectively. The postoperative HKA axis on the coronal plane was 180 ± 3° in 235 knees (95.92%, 4.08% outliers). Femoral and tibial components were implanted in an acceptable position, withing 90 ± 3° of the mechanical axis of the femur and tibia on the coronal plane in 238 (97.14%, 2.86% outliers) and 243 (99.18%, 0.8% outliers) knees, respectively.

Conclusion

Modified preoperative planning for TKA on LLRs is a reliable and consistent method to achieve the desired limb and component alignment on the coronal plane without adding financial or logistical costs.

Level of evidence

II
Outcomes of severe peripartum cardiomyopathy and mechanical circulatory support: a case series
Authors: Kiriyama Yuki , Kinishi Yuki , Hiramatu Daisuke , Uchiyama Akinori , Fujino Yuji , Toda Koichi , Ootaki Chiyo
Published: November 2021

Background

We present three cases of severe peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) that required mechanical circulatory supports.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 33-year-old woman developed acute heart failure (AHF) after normal spontaneous delivery. Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) was inserted on postpartum day (PD) 10 with a peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), which was withdrawn on PD 30 after medical treatment including anti-prolactin drugs.

Case 2: A 44-year-old woman developed AHF 1 month after vaginal delivery. IABP or extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was not effective and a biventricular assist device was inserted. It was withdrawn on PD 85 after improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Case3: A 37-year-old woman was transferred with a diagnosis of PPCM. Cardiac function unimproved by IABP or ECMO, and a left ventricular assist device was implanted. It was withdrawn on PD 386 after recovery of LVEF.

Conclusion

All the cases with PPCM recovered after mechanical circulatory supports and resumed social lives.