bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterotopic ossification in lymph node metastasis after rectal cancer resection: a case report and literature review
Authors: Nagano Hideki , Togawa Tamotsu , Watanabe Takeshi , Ohnishi Kenji , Kimura Toshihisa , Iida Atsushi , Noriki Sakon , Imamura Yoshiaki , Sato Yasunori , Goi Takanori
Published: January 2021

Background

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of osseous tissue outside the skeleton. HO in malignant tumors of the digestive tract is extremely rare, as is ossification in metastatic lesions from HO-negative digestive tract tumors. Regarding the pathogenesis of HO, two theories have been proposed. The first is that the osteoblastic metaplasia of tumor cells (driven by the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, EMT) results in HO, and the second is that factors secreted by cancer cells lead to the metaplasia of stromal pluripotent cells into osteoblasts. However, the osteogenic mechanisms remain unclear.

Case presentation

An 83-year-old Japanese woman underwent low anterior rectal resection for rectal cancer before presentation at our institution, in June 2018. The final diagnosis was stage IIB rectal adenocarcinoma (T4aN0M0). Histological examination did not reveal HO in the primary tumor. Thirteen months after the operation, a solitary metastatic lesion in the brain 20 mm in size and a solitary metastatic lesion in a right axillary lymph node 20 mm in size were diagnosed. The patient was treated with gamma-knife therapy for the brain metastasis. One month later, she was referred to our institution. She underwent lymph node resection. Histological examination revealed that most portions of the affected lymph node were occupied by metastatic tumor cells and that central necrosis and four small ossified lesions without an osteoblast-like cell rim were present in the peripheral region. Immunohistochemical analysis showed tumor cells positive for BMP-2, osteonectin, osteocalcin, AE1/AE3, TGF-β1, Gli2, Smad2/3, and CDX2 and negative for nestin, CD56, and CK7.

Conclusion

This is the first English case report of HO in a metachronous metastatic lymph node after the curative resection of HO-negative rectal cancer. Unlike HO lesions in past reports, the HO lesion did not show peripheral osteoblast-like cells, and the immunohistochemical findings indicated that the present case resulted from the EMT.
Acellular dermal matrix as filler in breast-conserving surgery: warnings for a careful use
Authors: Franceschini Gianluca , Masetti Riccardo
Published: January 2021

Acellular dermal matrices are biological materials of porcine, bovine, or human origin used as scaffold for reconstructive purpose in plastic surgery; these materials are well-tolerated and safely integrated in host tissues without causing resorption, contracture, and encapsulation thanks to their low antigenicity.

Recently, human acellular dermal matrix has been used as a filler in breast-conserving surgery to improve aesthetic results. Adequate knowledge of biomaterials properties, appropriate skill, and careful compliance with some specific recommendations are mandatory in order to optimize outcomes and obtain a work of success.
Cessation of methotrexate and a small intestinal resection provide a good clinical course for a patient with a jejunum perforation induced by a methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorder: a case report
Authors: Nomura Masahiro , Sumiya Ryusuke , Ono Hayato , Nagai Takeshi , Kumazawa Keigo , Shimizu Atsushi , Endo Daisuke , Aoyanagi Nobuyoshi
Published: January 2021

Background

Methotrexate (MTX) is a frequently used drug in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but occurrences of lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) have been reported in patients undergoing an MTX regimen. Almost half of the patients with methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorders (MTX-LPD) have extranodal lesions; moreover, although extremely rare, digestive tract perforations resulting from the extranodal lesions of MTX-LPD have also been reported.

Case presentation

We describe the case of an 81-year-old woman with RA who had been prescribed MTX at 6 mg per week for the past 11 years. She was admitted to our hospital with occasional abdominal pain and was first diagnosed with enteritis. Her abdominal pain did not improve, and a computed tomography scan showed abdominal effusion and free air in the abdominal cavity. She was diagnosed with a digestive tract perforation and underwent emergency surgery. The perforation site was identified in the jejunum, and she underwent small intestinal resection around the perforated region. The pathological findings showed an ulcer in the jejunum and infiltration of large atypical lymphocytes around the perforated region. An immunohistochemical examination revealed the expression of a cluster of differentiation 20 and latent membrane protein 1. Considering the patient’s history of RA treated with MTX, she was diagnosed as having Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-related MTX-LPD with a histological diagnosis of EBVMCU. MTX was discontinued after the surgery, and her soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) levels had returned to normal 1 year later. She has had a good course for the 2 years since surgery and remains asymptomatic with no recurrence of MTX-LPD, as confirmed by the sIL-2R levels.

Conclusion

We experienced a rare case of the jejunum perforation induced by MTX-LPD. Since only a few cases have been reported of a patient with small intestinal perforation induced by MTX-LPD, further research is necessary to evaluate the clinicopathological features of MTX-LPD. The patient had disease remission after surgery and by discontinuing MTX treatment; our case did not require chemotherapy. EBV-positive patients, especially those with a pathological presentation of EBVMCU, could have a higher likelihood of remission, which could have been a factor in the present case.
Governance in health workforce: how do we improve on the concept? A network-based, stakeholder-driven approach
Authors: Lim Max Ying Hao , Lin Vivian
Published: January 2021

Background

Health workforce governance has been proposed as key to improving health services delivery, yet few studies have examined the conceptualisation of health workforce governance in detail and exploration in literature remains limited.

Methods

A literature review using PubMed, Google Scholar and grey literature search was conducted to map out the current conceptualisation of health workforce governance. We identified all published literature relating to governance in health workforce since 2000 and analysed them on two fronts: the broad definition of governance, and the operationalisation of broad definition into key dimensions of governance.

Results

Existing literature adopts governance concepts established in health literature and does not adapt understanding to the health workforce context. Definitions are largely quoted from health literature whilst dimensions are focused around the sub-functions of governance which emphasise operationalising governance practices over further conceptualisation. Two sub-functions are identified as essential to the governance process: stakeholder participation and strategic direction.

Conclusions

Although governance in health systems has gained increasing attention, governance in health workforce remains poorly conceptualised in literature. We propose an improved conceptualisation in the form of a stakeholder-driven network governance model with the national government as a strong steward against vested stakeholder interests. Further research is needed to explore and develop on the conceptual thinking behind health workforce governance.
Socio-economic and demographic factors associated with fertility preferences among women of reproductive age in Ghana: evidence from the 2014 Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Armah-Ansah Ebenezer Kwesi , Ameyaw Edward Kwabena , Budu Eugene , Yaya Sanni
Published: January 2021

Background

Understanding women’s desire to have more children is critical for planning towards future reproductive health behaviour. We examined the association between socio-economic and demographic factors and fertility preferences among women of reproductive age in Ghana.

Methods

This  study used data from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. The sample consisted of 5389 women of reproductive age. We fitted Binary logistic regression models to assess the association between socio-economic status and fertility preferences, whiles controlling for demographic factors. The results were presented as crude odds ratios (cORs) and adjusted odds ratios (aORs) together with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Approximately 60% of women of reproductive age in Ghana desired for more children. Women with no formal education were more likely to desire for more children compared to those with higher level of education (aOR = 2.16, 95% CI 1.29–3.48). The odds of desire for more children was higher among women who lived in rural areas compared to those who lived in urban areas (aOR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.01–1.53). With region, women who lived in the Northern region were more likely to desire for more children compared to those who lived in the Ashanti region (aOR = 4.03, 95% CI 2.69–6.04). Similarly, women who belonged to other ethnic groups were more likely to desire for more children compared to Akans (aOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.35–2.35). The desire for more children was higher among women with 0–3 births compared to those with four or more births (aOR = 7.15, 95% CI 5.97–8.58). In terms of religion, Muslim women were more likely to desire for more children compared to Christians (aOR = 1.87, 95% CI 1.49–2.34).

Conclusion

This study concludes that women in high-socio economic status are less likely to desire more children. On the other hand, women in the Northern, Upper East and those belonging to the Islamic religious sect tend to desire more children. To aid in fertility control programmes designing and strengthening of existing ones, these factors ought to be critically considered.
“It is painful and unpleasant”: experiences of sexual violence among married adolescent girls in Shinyanga, Tanzania
Authors: Mwanukuzi Christine , Nyamhanga Tumaini
Published: January 2021

Background

While the situation of married adolescent girls in Tanzania is increasingly documented, empirical evidence concerning the ways in which child marriage impacts girls’ and young women’s sexual lives is limited. Specifically, little is known about lived experiences on sexual violence among married adolescent girls in Tanzania.

Methods

This article reports on a qualitative study using a phenomenological approach to describe married girls’ experiences of sexual violence in the Shinyanga Region, an area with the highest prevalence (59%) of child marriage in Tanzania. Data were collected from 20 married girls aged 12–17 years.

Results

The study identified four analytical themes regarding the experience of sexual violence, namely: forced sex; rape; struggling against unpleasant and painful sex; and inculcation of the culture of tolerance of sexual violence.

Conclusion

The study highlights the voices of married adolescents on an important but a neglected topic of relevance to Tanzania’s public health. Findings from this study suggest that married adolescent girls suffer sexual coercion in silence.

Plain English summary

Child marriage is a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa in general and in Tanzania in particular. However, there is limited research on the ways in which it impacts sexual lives of married adolescent girls. In response to the inadequacy of information, married adolescent girls in Shinyanga Region of Tanzania were requested to voice out their experiences of sexual violence. Three themes were identified from the responses, namely: forced sex; rape, struggling against unpleasant and painful sex; and the inculcation of the culture of tolerance of sexual violence.

In conclusion, this study has echoed voices of married adolescent girls on the sexual troubles they experience. Their main concern is that they suffer sexual coercion in silence, which increases their risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections and/or unwanted pregnancies. Recommendations for sexual violence prevention strategies are discussed.
Adolescent metabolic syndrome and its components associations with incidence of type 2 diabetes in early adulthood: Tehran lipid and glucose study
Authors: Asghari Golaleh , Hasheminia Mitra , Heidari Abolfazl , Mirmiran Parvin , Guity Kamran , Shahrzad Mohammad Karim , Azizi Fereidoun , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: January 2021

Aim

To investigate the association of youth metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components, individually and in combination with early adulthood incident type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods

A total of 2798 adolescents aged 11–19 years enrolled in the study. At baseline, MetS, its components including blood pressure (BP), waist circumference (WC), triglycerides (TGs), fasting plasma glucose, and low HDL-C, and different combinations of MetS components were defined. After a mean 11.3 years of follow-up, T2DM was determined. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, family history of T2DM, and adult BMI was used for data analysis. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported.

Results

During the follow-up, 44 incidents T2DM were developed. Among different individual components, only high WC [HR = 2.63, 95% CI (1.39–4.97)] and high TGs [HR = 1.82, 95% CI (1.00–3.34)] remained as significant predictors only in the age and sex adjusted model. Regarding combinations of MetS components, ‘high TGs and high WC’ [HR = 2.70, 95% CI (1.27–5.77)], ‘high BP and high WC’ [HR = 2.52, 95% CI (1.00–6.33)], ‘high TGs and high BP’ [HR = 2.27, 95% CI (1.02–5.05)] as well as MetS per se [HR = 2.82, 95% CI (1.41–5.64)] had a significant relationship with incident T2DM in the multivariable adjusted model. Among different confounders, being female and having family history of T2DM were consistently associated with higher risk of T2DM, in different combinations of MetS components.

Conclusions

Adolescence MetS and some combinations of MetS components predicted early adulthood T2DM. Thus, adolescents, particularly female ones, with combinations of MetS components as well as those with family history of T2DM could be targeted for lifestyle intervention.
Screening for the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer: protocol for systematic reviews to inform Canadian recommendations
Authors: Gates Allison , Pillay Jennifer , Reynolds Donna , Stirling Rob , Traversy Gregory , Korownyk Christina , Moore Ainsley , Thériault Guylène , Thombs Brett D. , Little Julian , Popadiuk Catherine , van Niekerk Dirk , Keto-Lambert Diana , Vandermeer Ben , Hartling Lisa
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To inform recommendations by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care on screening in primary care for the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer by systematically reviewing evidence of (a) effectiveness; (b) test accuracy; (c) individuals’ values and preferences; and (d) strategies aimed at improving screening rates.

Methods

De novo reviews will be conducted to evaluate effectiveness and to assess values and preferences. For test accuracy and strategies to improve screening rates, we will integrate studies from existing systematic reviews with search updates to the present. Two Cochrane reviews will provide evidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes from the conservative management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. We will search Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central (except for individuals’ values and preferences, where Medline, Scopus, and EconLit will be searched) via peer-reviewed search strategies and the reference lists of included studies and reviews. We will search ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for ongoing trials. Two reviewers will screen potentially eligible studies and agree on those to include. Data will be extracted by one reviewer with verification by another. Two reviewers will independently assess risk of bias and reach consensus. Where possible and suitable, we will pool studies via meta-analysis. We will compare accuracy data per outcome and per comparison using the Rutter and Gatsonis hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic model and report relative sensitivities and specificities. Findings on values and preferences will be synthesized using a narrative synthesis approach and thematic analysis, depending on study designs. Two reviewers will appraise the certainty of evidence for all outcomes using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) and come to consensus.

Discussion

The publication of guidance on screening in primary care for the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer by the Task Force in 2013 focused on cytology. Since 2013, new studies using human papillomavirus tests for cervical screening have been published that will improve our understanding of screening in primary care settings. This review will inform updated recommendations based on currently available studies and address key evidence gaps noted in our previous review.
The state of population health research performance in the Middle East and North Africa: a meta-research study
Authors: Chaabna Karima , Cheema Sohaila , Abraham Amit , Maisonneuve Patrick , Lowenfels Albert B. , Mamtani Ravinder
Published: January 2021

Background

Population health (PH) research capacity and performance are essential pillars of evidence-based practice to help address health inequalities. Best evidence is provided by systematic reviews (SRs). None of the published bibliometric analysis specifically assess the production of SRs on PH in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The aim of our study is to investigate publication patterns and time trends of SRs reporting PH in the MENA region to evaluate the state of PH research performance in the region.

Method

The study protocol was developed a priori (protocol registration number: CRD42017076736). PubMed was searched. Two independent reviewers screened 5747 identified articles. We investigated author affiliation and collaboration, yearly citations of the SRs and journal information. Joinpoint regression was used to explore these characteristics overtime.

Results

Our meta-research included 387 SRs published between 2008 and 2016 which reported data on PH in 20 MENA countries. Publication of SRs increased over time in journals with impact factor < 4 and in the categories of yearly number of citations < 50 (pvalues ≤ 0.0024). Authors belonging to the region published increasingly (pvalue = 0.0001) over time. Thirty percent of the SRs were from authors solely from the region, while an additional 30% were from the region collaborating with Western country authors. Of these collaborative reviews, 79% were led by authors from the region. However, collaboration in the region (with the exclusion of collaboration with Western country authors) was rare (0.8%). These authors from the region published more in open-access journals while authors from Western countries collaborating or not with authors from the region published more in hybrid or non-open-access journals (pvalue < 0.0001). Collaboration between authors from MENA and Western countries led to published SRs in journals with impact factor ≥ 10. Systematic reviews with global coverage were published more by authors from Western countries, while SRs with country-level coverage were published by authors from the region (pvalue < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The incremental trend of PH SR publications on MENA likely reflects the ongoing improvement in research performance in the region. Authors from the region appear to be taking a lead role in conducting and disseminating MENA PH research. Open-access journals are a major contributor in facilitating MENA research dissemination.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO registration number CRD42017076736
Airborne transmission of COVID-19 and the role of face mask to prevent it: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tabatabaeizadeh Seyed-Amir
Published: January 2021

Background and aims

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), belonging to the Coronaviridae family, is agent of 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). COVID-19 emerged in Wuhan, Hubei province of China, in early December 2019 and is now considered a pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the airborne transmission of COVID-19 and the role of face mask to prevent it.

Methods

A systematic search for English-language literature was done via PUBMED/Medline and Google Scholar up to October 2020. There was two search strategy; for airborne transmission and the role of face mask for prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Based on a fixed and random effects model, the RR and 95% CI were used to evaluate the combined risk. This meta-analysis followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) Guidelines.

Results

After eligibility assessment, four articles with a total of 7688 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The result of this meta-analysis has shown significant reduction in infection with face mask use; the pooled RR (95%CI) was 0.12 [0.06, 0.27] (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that there is association between face mask use and reduction of COVID-19. However, COVID-19 spreads primarily with contact routes and respiratory droplets, but its transmissibility has many mysteries yet and there is controversy about airborne transmission of COVID-19.
The 12 items Amharic version WHODAS-2 showed cultural adaptation and used to measure disability among road traffic trauma victims in Ethiopia
Authors: Denu Zewditu Abdissa , Yassin Mensur Osman , Bisetegn Telake Azale , Biks Gashaw Andargie , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu
Published: January 2021

Background

Adapting and translating already developed tools to different cultures is a complex process, but once done, it increases the validity of the construct to be measured. This study aimed to assess the 12 items WHODAS-2 and test its psychometric properties among road traffic injury victims in Ethiopia. This study aimed to translate the 12 items WHODAS- 2 interview-based tools into Amharic and examine the psychometric properties of the new version among road traffic injury victims.

Methods

The 12 items WHODAS 2 was first translated into Amharic by two experts. Back translation was done by two English experts. A group of experts reviewed the forward and backward translation. A total of 240 patients with road traffic injury completed the questionnaires at three selected Hospitals in Amhara Regional State. Internal consistency was; assessed using Chronbach’s alpha, convergent, and divergent validity, which were; tested via factor analysis. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA); was computed, and the model fit; was examined.

Results

The translated Amharic version 12 –items WHODAS-2 showed that good cross-cultural adaptation and internal consistency (Chronbach’s α =0.88). The six factor structure best fits data (model fitness indices; CFI = 0.962, RMSEA = 0.042, RMR = 0.072, GFI = 0.961, chi-square value/degree of freedom = 1.42, TLI = 0.935 and PCLOSE = 0.68). Our analysis showed that from the six domains, mobility is the dominant factor explaining 95% of variability in disability.

Conclusion

The 12 items interview-based Amharic version WHODAS-2; showed good cultural adaptation at three different settings of Amhara Regional State and can be used to measure dis-ability following a road traffic injury.
Dramatic shifts in intestinal fungal community between wintering Hooded Crane and Domestic Goose
Authors: Xiang Xingjia , Jin Lele , Yang Zhuqing , Zhang Nazhong , Zhang Feng
Published: January 2021

Background

The intestinal microbiota play remarkable roles in maintaining the health of their hosts. Recent studies focused on gut bacterial diversity in birds and poultry, with little information about the ecological functions of their gut fungal community.

Methods

The high-throughput sequencing was applied to compare intestinal fungal community structure between Hooded Crane (Grus monacha) and Domestic Goose (Anser anser domesticus), and infer the potential pathogens of each species at Shengjin Lake of China.

Results

Intestinal fungal alpha diversity was higher in Hooded Crane than Greylag Goose (Anser anser). Gut fungal community composition showed dramatic shifts between the two species. Hooded Cranes mainly eatVallisneria natansandPotamogeton malaianus, while artificial hurl food (i.e., paddy) was the main food resource for Domestic Geese, suggesting that the variations in fungal community might be induced by different diets between the two hosts. Two enriched genera (i.e.,AcremoniumandRhodotorula) which could increase host’s digestion were detected in guts of Hooded Cranes. In addition, there were 42 pathogenic amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), 17% of which shared in Hooded Crane and Greylag Goose. The Hooded Crane had higher gut fungal pathogenic diversity and abundance relative to Greylag Goose.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that divergence in intestinal fungal community structure might be induced by different diets between wintering Hooded Crane and Domestic Goose. Hooded Crane might rely more on their gut fungal taxa to acquire nutrients from indigestible food resources. Our study also implied that more research should focus on intestinal pathogens in wild birds and domestic poultry, as they might increase risk of disease in other animals, even human beings. The degree of cross infection in pathogens among wild birds and sympatric poultry should be clearly verified in future study.
Disability prevalence in midlife (aged 55–65 years): Cross-Country comparisons of gender differences and time trends
Authors: Wang Serena , Phillips Drystan , Lee Jinkook
Published: January 2021

Background

Prior literature on disability has centered on disability prevalence among older adults ages 65 and older, providing only limited insight to potential gender differences in disability prevalence in mid-life. Midlife is, however, a critical time to be examined, as it is typically the time in the life course when large inequalities in physical health first emerge.

Methods

Using the Harmonized data files provided by the Gateway to Global Aging Data, we estimate disability prevalence of nationally representative adults ages 55–65 from 23 countries (N = 79,465). We examine gender differences in two disability indicators, limitations in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and activities of daily living (ADLs) in two time periods, 2004/05 and 2014/15.

Results

There are substantial cross-country variations in IADL and ADL disability prevalence in midlife. Within countries, we find that women have higher IADL prevalence than men in only one out of five countries. Similarly, for ADL prevalence, women have higher ADL prevalence than men in only one out of ten countries. Further, comparing disability prevalence in two time periods, we observe different country-specific time trends.

Conclusions

In the majority of mid and high-income countries, there is no significant gender difference in IADL and ADL prevalence, but there are few countries where women show higher prevalence of disability than men in mid-life. This finding calls for future research into what contributes to cross-country variations.
Ductile failure analysis of epoxy resin plates containing multiple circular arc cracks by means of the equivalent material concept
Authors: Pourseifi M. , Rahimi A. S.
Published: January 2021

Ductile failure of polymeric samples weakened by circular arc cracks is studied theoretically and experimentally in this research. Various arrangements of cracks with different arc angles are considered in the specimens such that crack tips experienced the mixed mode I/II loading conditions. Fracture tests are conducted on the multi-cracked specimens and their fracture loads are achieved. To provide the results, the equivalent material concept (EMC) is used in conjunction of dislocation method and a brittle fracture criterion such that there is no necessity for performing complex and time-consuming elastic-plastic damage analyses. Theoretical and experimental stress intensity factors are computed and compared with each other by employing the fracture curves which demonstrate the appropriate efficiency of proposed method to predict the tests results.
Acute, sub-acute, sub-chronic and chronic toxicity studies of four important Nigerian ethnomedicinal plants in rats
Authors: Tauheed Abdullah M. , Mamman Mohammed , Ahmed Abubakar , Sani Na’imatu A. , Suleiman Mohammed M. , Sulaiman Mohammed H. , Balogun Emmanuel O.
Published: January 2021

Background

Azadirachta indica,Khaya senegalensis,Anogeissus leiocarpusandTamarindus indicaare important ethnomedicinal plants used for health mitigation since the history of mankind. They are used discretionarily in folkloric medicine on the premise that they are natural products devoid of synthetic preservatives. However, nature endows plants with metabolites for warding off potential attacks from animals and the environment. Some of these metabolites are responsible for toxicity of some plants. Furthermore, drug-induced liver injuries and nephrotoxicity are the leading causes of pharmaceutical attrition of promising drug candidates in clinical trials. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the safety of four ethnomedicinal plants in short-, medium- and long-term usage.

Methods

Rats dosed once with 5000 mg/kg extracts of each of these plants served as acute study (AS) while rats dosed daily with 2000 mg/kg for 2, 12 and 14 weeks served as sub-acute (SAS), sub-chronic (SCS) and chronic (CS) studies, respectively. Rats administered distilled water served as the negative control (NC).

Results

A. leiocarpusandT. indicasignificantly reduced percentage weight gain in the SCS compared to the NC.A. leiocarpussignificantly (P< 0.05) increased transaminases and alkaline phosphatase in the AS only; and total protein (TP) in the AS, SAS, SCS and CS compared to the NC.K. senegalensissignificantly (P< 0.05) increased alanine aminotransferase but significantly (P< 0.05) decreased TP in the AS only compared to the NC. However,A. indica and T. indicasignificantly (P< 0.05) increased globulin and aspartate transaminase in the CS only. WhereasA. leiocarpusandK. senegalensissignificantly (P< 0.05) increased urea and creatinine in the AS than SAS, SCS and CS; Na+and K+were significantly higher in the SCS and CS studies compared to the NC. The histological lesions seen ranged from cellular degeneration, congestion, fibrosis to necrosis.

Conclusion

Thus, nonlethal, reversible toxic insults occur in short-term usage (AS); while, insidious lethal toxic effects occur in medium-term (SAS) and long-term usage (SCS and CS). The ability of these plant to maintain adequate hematological parameters, bodyweight and absence of mortality may explain free usage of preparations made from these plants in folkloric medicine.
Corporate social responsibility and stakeholder engagement in Ghana’s mining sector: a case study of Newmont Ahafo mines
Authors: Ansu-Mensah Peter , Marfo Emmanuel Opoku , Awuah Lyon Salia , Amoako Kwame Oduro
Published: January 2021

Even though the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been applauded for several decades, the concept of stakeholder engagement is relatively new to the Ghanaian mining sector. This study investigates the CSR process of an extractive company and examines how stakeholders are engaged in CSR. Using purposive and snowball sampling in identifying its respondents, data was gathered through interviewing 21 selected respondents from various stakeholder groups and documents such as sustainability annual reports were analyzed. It was discovered that Newmont Ahafo Mines has consistently had a prominent CSR drive in Ghana for several years and stakeholder involvement in CSR is important for implementing relevant CSR programs. Findings of this study contribute to the building of empirical reference which will serve as guidelines for management practitioners dealing with stakeholder relations and CSR in Ghana’s mining sector. Therefore, it is recommended that the mining sector put immense effort in engaging various stakeholders in their CSR initiatives.
The implications of international rescue and relief operations for domestic regulatory regimes—lessons from the 2011 East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Kodama Yoshi
Published: January 2021

This article attempts to reveal how and why international rescue and relief operations had difficulties, following the 2011 East Japan earthquake, in being smoothly received in a country like Japan with well-prepared domestic natural disaster response mechanisms as well as highly regulated economy and society. To this end, the article examines lessons and challenges from the operations by foreign rescue and relief assistance teams then tries to present possible solutions and prescriptions for adjustment and improvement of inter-state frameworks as well as domestic laws and regulations. Issues are generally analogous to trade and investment liberalisation as well as inter-state deregulatory endeavours, which may give some insights in addressing post-disaster regulatory and procedural impediments.
Immunological analysis and differential genes screening of venous thromboembolism
Authors: Gao Li-Na , Li Qiang , Xie Jian-Qin , Yang Wan-Xia , You Chong-Ge
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To explore the pathogenesis of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and provide bioinformatics basis for the prevention and treatment of VTE.

Methods

The R software was used to obtain the gene expression profile data of GSE19151, combining with the CIBERSORT database, obtain immune cells and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of blood samples of VTE patients and normal control, and analyze DEGs for GO analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Then, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by using the STRING database, the key genes (hub genes) and immune differential genes were screened by Cytoscape software, and the transcription factors (TFs) regulating hub genes and immune differential genes were analyzed by the NetworkAnalyst database.

Results

Compared with the normal group, monocytes and resting mast cells were significantly expressed in the VTE group, while regulatory T cells were significantly lower. Ribosomes were closely related to the occurrence of VTE. 10 hub genes and immune differential genes were highly expressed in VTE. MYC, SOX2, XRN2, E2F1, SPI1, CREM and CREB1 can regulate the expressions of hub genes and immune differential genes.

Conclusions

Ribosomal protein family genes are most relevant to the occurrence and development of VTE, and the immune differential genes may be the key molecules of VTE, which provides new ideas for further explore the pathogenesis of VTE.
IFI27 may predict and evaluate the severity of respiratory syncytial virus infection in preterm infants
Authors: Gao Junyan , Zhu Xueping , Wu Mingfu , Jiang Lijun , Wang Fudong , He Shan
Published: January 2021

Background

Preterm infants are a special population that vulnerable to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection and the lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) caused by RSV could be severe and even life-threating. The purpose of the present study was to identify candidate genes of preterm infants who are susceptible to RSV infection and provide a new insight into the pathogenesis of RSV infection.

Methods

Three datasets (GSE77087, GSE69606 and GSE41374) containing 183 blood samples of RSV infected patients and 33 blood samples of healthy controls from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were downloaded and the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out. The function and pathway enrichments were analyzed through Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) website. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network for DEGs was constructed through Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING). The module analysis was performed by Cytoscape software and hub genes were identified. Clinical verification was employed to verify the expression level of top five hub genes among 72 infants including 50 RSV infected patients and 22 non-RSV-infected patients hospitalized in our center. Further, the RSV infected infants with high-expression IFI27 and those with low-expression IFI27 were compared (defined as higher or lower than the median mRNA level). Finally, the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) focusing on IFI27 was carried out.

Results

Totally, 4028 DEGs were screened out and among which, 131 most significant DEGs were selected. Subsequently, 13 hub genes were identified, and function and pathway enrichments of hub genes mainly were: response to virus, defense response to virus, regulation of viral genome replication and regulation of viral life cycle. Furthermore, IFI27 was confirmed to be the most significantly expressed in clinical verification. Gene sets associated with calcium signaling pathway, arachidonic acid metabolism, extracellular matrix receptor interaction and so on were significantly enriched when IFI27 was highly expressed. Moreover, high-expression IFI27 was associated with more severe cases (p = 0.041), more requirements of mechanical ventilation (p = 0.034), more frequent hospitalization (p < 0.001) and longer cumulative hospital stay (p = 0.012).

Conclusion

IFI27 might serve to predict RSV infection and evaluate the severity of RSV infection in preterm infants.
Impact of silver nanoparticles and two biological treatments to control soft rot disease in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L)
Authors: Ghazy Nasr A. , Abd El-Hafez Omnia A. , El-Bakery A. M. , El-Geddawy Dalia I. H.
Published: January 2021

Background

Soft rot disease caused by Pectobacterium carotovorum was observed in various crops which lead to yield shortages and economic losses.

Main body

Therefore, both in vitro and in vivo experiments, aim to assess the effect of nanoparticles and biological treatments to control soft rot disease in sugar beet plant. The treatments comprised three silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) concentrations (50, 75, and 100 ppm), three Spirulina platensis extract concentrations (50, 75, and 100%), and Bacillus subtilis (1 × 109 CFU ml) 100%. Under in vitro condation, results of the antibacterial activity showed that the zones of inhibition recorded 4.33 cm for 100 ppm Ag NPs, 0.43 cm for 100% algal extract, and 0.2 cm for bacterial treatments. Also, disease incidence % of bacterial soft rot was significantly decreased in all treatments in pot and field experiments. For resistant enzymes activity, B. subtilis 100% showed the most effect (84 mg min−1), followed by S. platensis extract 75%, (57 mg min−1), and Ag NPs 75 ppm (44 mg min−1), for poly phenol oxidase (PPO) at 81 days after sowing (DAS), but at 102 DAS revealed opposite results. On the contrary, peroxidase (PO) at 81 DAS showed different effects where treatment with S. platensis extract 100% increased it significantly (0.546 mg min−1) compared to control (0.535 mg min−1). The same trend was observed at 102 DAS. These results were reflected on sugar quality where Ag NPs 100 ppm treatment recorded the highest significant value (20.5%) followed by S. platensis 75% (19 %); however, the differences among them were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

This study indicated that the potential benefits of using silver nanoparticles and two biological treatments to control soft rot disease in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L).
Endovascular treatment of arteriovenous graft dysfunction as a result of graft delamination and fracture
Authors: Chaurasia Aditi , Garg Tushar , Ahuja Rakesh , Ferra Michael
Published: January 2021

Background

Graft thrombosis due to fabric delamination is a rare cause of delayed failure of arteriovenous grafts. Graft delamination is primarily an imaging diagnosis and is confirmed with the help of ultrasound which shows the separation of graft fabric layers. Only two such cases have been described in the literature so far.

Case presentation

We present a case of upper extremity arteriovenous graft thrombosis in a 79 year old COVID-19 positive patient with end-stage renal disease. The diagnosis was established on ultrasonography which revealed separation of the graft fabric layers with thrombosis within the “false” and “true” lumen of the graft. The patient was managed with angioplasty and embolectomy of the clot material followed by stent-graft placement across the delaminated portion of the graft. Post-procedural angiography confirmed brisk flow across the graft and patient could successfully have subsequent hemodialysis sessions.

Conclusions

Identification of graft delamination as a cause of graft failure is important as its management differs from other conventional causes since it requires stent-grafts to cover the area of delamination to re-establish flow and salvage the AV graft. The recognition of this phenomenon is essential to provide quality care and successful reuse of the AV graft.

Level of evidence

Level 4, Case Report.
Endovascular approaches in pediatric interventional oncology
Authors: Shaikh Raja , Munoz Fernando Gomez
Published: January 2021

The demand for interventional oncological (IO) treatment of pediatric cancers is becoming increasingly common, at least at several tertiary care institutions. The data and techniques used in pediatric IO are largely extrapolated from experience in adult patients. The management of pediatric tumors differs from that in adults in several categories, such as, the curative intent of treatment, wide use of general anesthesia, aggressive pain management, potentially longer hospital stay, variation in chemotherapy dosing etc. Additionally, pediatric cancers are managed by protocols directed by national and international oncology groups such as the Children’s Oncology Group (COG). Consequently, the translation and adoption of these techniques is gradual, but there is a noticeable uptrend due to the growing need. This review will update the current endovascular IO treatments for common pediatric liver, renal, bone and soft tissue tumors.
A Novel Homozygous Missense Mutation in the YARS Gene: Expanding the Phenotype of YARS Multisystem Disease
Authors: Zeiad Rawah K H M , Ferren Edwin C , Young Denise D , De Lancy Shanelle J , Dedousis Demitrios , Schillaci Lori-Anne , Redline Raymond W , Saab Shahrazad T , Crespo Maricruz , Bhatti Tricia R , Ackermann Amanda M , Bedoyan Jirair K , Wood Jamie R
Published: January 2021

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (ARSs) are crucial enzymes for protein translation. Mutations in genes encoding ARSs are associated with human disease. Tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase is encoded by YARS which is ubiquitously expressed and implicated in an autosomal dominant form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth and autosomal recessive YARS-related multisystem disease.

We report on a former 34-week gestational age male who presented at 2 months of age with failure to thrive (FTT) and cholestatic hepatitis. He was subsequently diagnosed with hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia with a negative congenital hyperinsulinism gene panel and F-DOPA positron-emission tomography (PET) scan that did not demonstrate a focal lesion. Autopsy findings were notable for overall normal pancreatic islet size and morphology. Trio whole exome sequencing identified a novel homozygous variant of uncertain significance in YARS (c.611A > C, p.Tyr204Cys) with each parent a carrier for the YARS variant. Euglycemia was maintained with diazoxide (max dose, 18 mg/kg/day), and enteral dextrose via gastrostomy tube (G-Tube). During his prolonged hospitalization, the patient developed progressive liver disease, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, acute renal failure, recurrent infections, ichthyosis, hematologic concerns, hypotonia, and global developmental delay. Such multisystem features have been previously reported in association with pathogenic YARS mutations. Although hypoglycemia has been associated with pathogenic YARS mutations, this report provides more conclusive data that a YARS variant can cause hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia. This case expands the allelic and clinical heterogeneity of YARS-related disease. In addition, YARS-related disease should be considered in the differential of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia associated with multisystem disease.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring to Diagnose Hypoglycemia Due to Late Dumping Syndrome in Children After Gastric Surgeries
Authors: Chesser Hannah , Abdulhussein Fatema , Huang Alyssa , Lee Janet Y , Gitelman Stephen E
Published: January 2021

Gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) and Nissen fundoplication are common surgical interventions for feeding difficulties and gastroesophageal reflux disease in children. A potential yet often missed, complication of these procedures is dumping syndrome. We present 3 pediatric patients with postprandial hypoglycemia due to late dumping syndrome after gastric surgeries. All patients received gastrostomy tubes for feeding intolerance: 2 had Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease, and 1 had tracheoesophageal repair. All patients underwent multiple imaging studies in an to attempt to diagnose dumping syndrome. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was essential for detecting asymptomatic hypoglycemia and glycemic excursions occurring with feeds that would have gone undetected with point-of-care (POC) blood glucose checks. CGM was also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment strategies and drive treatment plans. These cases highlight the utility of CGM in diagnosing postprandial hypoglycemia due to late dumping syndrome, which is infrequently diagnosed by imaging studies and intermittent POC blood glucose measurements.
A Rare Case of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Associated With Pituitary Apoplexy Without Comorbidities
Authors: Ghosh Ritwik , Roy Dipayan , Roy Devlina , Mandal Arpan , Dutta Aloke , Naga Dinabandhu , Benito-León Julián
Published: January 2021

Pituitary apoplexy is a medical and surgical emergency caused by hemorrhage or infarction of the hypophysis, which typically occurs within a pituitary adenoma. It is usually characterized by severe (often thunderclap) headache, visual disturbances, cranial nerve impairments, and hormonal deficiencies. We herein report a case of a previously healthy woman with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection associated with pituitary apoplexy. The plausible pathophysiological mechanisms of pituitary apoplexy in infectious coronavirus disease 2019 are discussed.