bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ABBaH teens: Activity Breaks for Brain Health in adolescents: study protocol for a randomized crossover trial
Authors: Heiland Emerald G. , Kjellenberg Karin , Tarassova Olga , Fernström Maria , Nyberg Gisela , Ekblom Maria M. , Helgadottir Björg , Ekblom Örjan
Published: January 2022

Background

Physical activity breaks are widely being implemented in school settings as a solution to increase academic performance and reduce sitting time. However, the underlying physiological mechanisms suggested to improve cognitive function from physical activity and the frequency, intensity, and duration of the breaks remain unknown. This study will investigate the effects of frequent, short physical activity breaks during prolonged sitting on task-related prefrontal cerebral blood flow, cognitive performance, and psychological factors. Additionally, the moderating and mediating effects of arterial stiffness on changes in cerebral blood flow will be tested.

Methods

This is a protocol for a randomized crossover study that will recruit 16 adolescents (13–14 years old). Participants will undergo three different conditions in a randomized order, on three separate days, involving sitting 80 min with a different type of break every 17 min for 3 min. The breaks will consist of (1) seated social breaks, (2) simple resistance activities, and (3) step-up activities. Before and after the 80-min conditions, prefrontal cerebral blood flow changes will be measured using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (primary outcome), while performing working memory tasks (1-, 2-, and 3-back tests). Arterial stiffness (augmentation index and pulse wave velocity) and psychological factors will also be assessed pre and post the 80-min interventions.

Discussion

Publication of this protocol will help to increase rigor in science. The results will inform regarding the underlying mechanisms driving the association between physical activity breaks and cognitive performance. This information can be used for designing effective and feasible interventions to be implemented in schools.

Trial registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04552626. Retrospectively registered on September 21, 2020.
Anti-infection roles of miR-155-5p packaged in exosomes secreted by dendritic cells infected with Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Jiang Dan , Wu Shuizhen , Xu Liqing , Xie Guantai , Li Dongliang , Peng Hongjuan
Published: January 2022

Background

Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic intracellular protozoon that is estimated to infect about 30% of the world’s population, resulting in toxoplasmosis in immunocompromised patients and adverse outcomes in cases of primary infection during pregnancy. Exosomes are tubular vesicles secreted by cells, and function in intercellular communication. It has been reported that the exosomes secreted by T. gondii-infected immune cells transmit infection signals to the uninfected cells. However, the mechanism and effect of the exosome transmission are still vague. We therefore investigated the function of the exosomes transmitted from DC2.4 cells infected with the T. gondii RH strain (Tg-DC-Exo) to the uninfected cells, as well as their roles in anti-infection.

Methods

We conducted exosome isolation and identification with ultracentrifugation, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and western blot (WB) analysis. Exosome uptake by recipient cells was identified by PKH67 assay. The signal transmission and the abundance of miR-155-5p were determined using transwell assay and qRT-PCR. For detection of immune responses, cytokine secretion was evaluated. The T. gondii B1 gene was determined to evaluate tachyzoite proliferation.

Results

We observed that Toxoplasma infection upregulated miR-155-5p expression in DC2.4 cell-secreted exosomes, and those exosomes could be ingested by murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells. Tg-DC-Exo and miR-155-5p stimulated host proinflammatory immune responses including increased production of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, and proinflammatory marker-inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). The NF-κB pathway was activated by downregulation of SOCS1, leading to inhibition of T. gondii tachyzoite proliferation in RAW264.7 cells.

Conclusions

Our findings provide a novel mechanism for how infected cells transmit infection signals to the uninfected cells through exosome secretion after T. gondii infection, followed by inflammatory responses and anti-infection reactions, which may help us develop a new strategy for toxoplasmosis prevention, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Graphical Abstract
The association between psoriatic arthritis and venous thromboembolism: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Gazitt Tal , Pesachov Jacob , Lavi Idit , Elias Muna , Haddad Amir , Feldhamer Ilan , Cohen Arnon Dov , Saliba Walid , Zisman Devy
Published: January 2022

Background

Although the risk of cardiovascular disease has been discussed extensively in both psoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), very few studies have addressed the occurrence of venous thromboembolic (VTE) events among PsO patients, and even fewer in PsA. Thus, our goal was to assess the association between PsA and VTE events using a large population-based database.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study includes all 5,275 patients with newly diagnosed PsA from the largest health care provider in Israel between January 2003 and December 2018. Identified PsA patients were matched by age, sex, ethnicity, and index date with 21,011 controls without PsA from the same database. Both groups were followed through June 30, 2019 for the occurrence of VTE event. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to assess the association between PsA and VTE.

Results

PsA cohort consisted of 53.2% females with mean age of 51.7±15.4 Sixty-two patients (1.2%) were diagnosed with VTE in the PsA group and 176 patients (0.8%) in the control group (p=0.023, HR=1.40, 95% CI 1.05-1.87). However, there was no increased risk of VTE among PsA patients on multivariable analysis (p=0.16, HR=1.27, 95% CI 0.91-1.80). Within the PsA group, patients with VTE were more often of older age and with history of VTE.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the increased risk of VTE in PsA patients appears to be related to the underlying comorbidities and not independently associated with PsA. Age and previous history of VTE were the only risk factors associated with increased risk of VTE in patients with PsA. Addressing VTE risk is recommended especially in the era of Janus kinase inhibitors.
Prospecting the plant growth–promoting activities of endophytic bacteria Franconibacter sp. YSD YN2 isolated from Cyperus esculentus L. var. sativus leaves
Authors: Wang Saisai , Wang Jinbin , Zhou Yifan , Huang Yanna , Tang Xueming
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Plant growth–promoting (PGP) bacteria are an environment-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers for promoting plant growth and development. We isolated and characterized a PGP endophyte, YSD YN2, from the leaves of Cyperus esculentus L. var. sativus.

Methods

Specific PGP characteristics of this strain, such as phosphate solubilization ability, potassium-dissolving ability, siderophore and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, and salt tolerance, were determined in vitro. In addition, positive mutants were screened using the atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) technology, with IAA level and organic phosphate solubility as indices. Furthermore, the effect of the positive mutant on seed germination, biomass production, and antioxidant abilities of greengrocery seedling was evaluated, and the genome was mined to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Results

The strain YSD YN2 showed a good performance of PGP characteristics, such as the production of indole acetic acid and siderophores, solubilization ability of phosphate, and potassium-dissolving ability. It was recognized through 16S rRNA sequencing together with morphological and physiological tests and confirmed as Franconibacter sp. The strain exposed to a mutation time of 125 s by ARTP had the highest IAA and organic phosphate (lecithin) concentrations of 9.25 mg/L and 16.50 mg/L, 50.41% and 30.54% higher than those of the initial strain. Inoculation of mutant strain YSD YN2 significantly increased the seed germination, plant growth attributes, and the activities of peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), respectively, but decreased the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly compared with the control. Furthermore, genome annotation and functional analysis were performed through whole-genome sequencing, and PGP-related genes were identified.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that the mutant strain YSD YN2 with PGP characteristics is a potential candidate for the development of biofertilizers.
Dot blot immunochemical and infrared analyses of the adhesive layer applied to the painting Imago Pietatis by Domenico Morone
Authors: Cattò Cristina , Parodi Valentina , Chiodelli Alice , Cappitelli Francesca , Bruni Silvia
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To investigate the nature of the materials used in the adhesive layer of the Imago Pietatis painting (end of the fifteenth century—beginning of the sixteenth century) by Domenico Morone as a prerequisite for its restoration.

Methods

Micro-FTIR spectra of the animal glue and a polished cross-section were acquired by a Jasco IRT3000 spectrometer, equipped with a 32× Cassegrain objective. A dot blot immunoassay was used to characterise a minor component of the adhesive layer.

Results

Micro-FTIR was used as an effective diagnostic tool to detect the major component of the adhesive layer and the binder of the paint. Despite the ageing, the complex matrix and the micro-size of the sample, using a dot blot immunoassay, it was possible to quantify 3.7 ± 2.0 ng of ovalbumin per microgram of sample (corresponding to 0.004 ± 0.002% of the weight).

Conclusions

The findings were in line with conservation practices described in the old treatises, confirming the correct interpretation of the adhesive layer compounds added to the painting and suggesting for the cleaning the use of an anionic water-soluble surfactant highly effective in the removing of proteinaceous materials.
Chromogenic Escherichia coli reporter strain for screening DNA damaging agents
Authors: Mora-Garduño Josué Daniel , Tamayo-Nuñez Jessica , Padilla-Vaca Felipe , Ramírez-Montiel Fátima Berenice , Rangel-Serrano Ángeles , Santos-Escobar Fernando , Gutiérrez-Corona Félix , Páramo-Pérez Itzel , Anaya-Velázquez Fernando , García-Contreras Rodolfo , Vargas-Maya Naurú Idalia , Franco Bernardo
Published: January 2022

The presence of pollutants in soil and water has given rise to diverse analytical and biological approaches to detect and measure contaminants in the environment. Using bacterial cells as reporter strains represents an advantage for detecting pollutants present in soil or water samples. Here, an Escherichia coli reporter strain expressing a chromoprotein capable of interacting with soil or water samples and responding to DNA damaging compounds is validated. The reporter strain generates a qualitative signal and is based on the expression of the coral chromoprotein AmilCP under the control of the recA promoter. This strain can be used simply by applying soil or water samples directly and rendering activation upon DNA damage. This reporter strain responds to agents that damage DNA (with an apparent detection limit of 1 µg of mitomycin C) without observable response to membrane integrity damage, protein folding or oxidative stress generating agents, in the latter case, DNA damage was observed. The developed reporter strain reported here is effective for the detection of DNA damaging agents present in soils samples. In a proof-of-concept analysis using soil containing chromium, showing activation at 15.56 mg/L of Cr(VI) present in soil and leached samples and is consistent with Cr(III) toxicity at high concentrations (130 µg). Our findings suggest that chromogenic reporter strains can be applied for simple screening, thus reducing the number of samples requiring analytical techniques.
Survival analysis of neonatal mortality in Ghana using three population-based surveys
Authors: Doku David Teye
Published: January 2022

Background

Neonatal mortality in many low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) remains high despite global efforts at addressing this challenge. Tackling neonatal death in LMICs is further complicated by lack of reliable data from individual countries in the region to inform effective context specific interventions. This study investigates the probability of neonatal survival and socio-demographic risk factors of neonatal mortality in Ghana.

Methods

Pooled data from three population-based surveys (N = 12,148) were analysed using multivariable Cox Proportional Hazards regression models.

Results

The risk of dying within the first 28 days of life was highest in the first week of life (early neonatal period), it then decreases sharply around the middle of the second week of life and remains low over the late neonatal period. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) showed that: rural residency (HR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.15-2.75); birth order 2-3 (HR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.10-2.42); birth order ≥7 (HR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.07-3.33) increased the risk of neonatal death. Additionally, children born to women who were obese had higher risk of neonatal death (HR = 1.69, CI: 1.12-2.56) compared with those of women with optimal weight. Disparities in the risk of neonatal death by geographical regions were also found.

Conclusion

The risk of neonatal mortality is highest during the first week of life and it is socio-demographically patterned. The findings emphasise the need to tackle socio-demographic risk factors of neonatal mortality in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 3, which is aimed at reducing neonatal mortality to 12 per 1000 live births by the year 2030.
Extensive outbreak of colistin resistant, carbapenemase (blaOXA-48, blaNDM) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in a large tertiary care hospital, India
Authors: Sharma Swati , Banerjee Tuhina , Kumar Ashok , Yadav Ghanshyam , Basu Sriparna
Published: January 2022

Background

Extensive drug resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) causing major outbreaks in large hospitals is an emerging challenge. We describe a near fatal outbreak of colistin resistant, carbapenem resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKp) producing metallo beta-lactamases (blaNDM) and blaOXA-48 in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the background of a larger outbreak involving multiple parts of the hospital and the challenges in its containment.

Methods

Following identification of an outbreak due to colistin resistant CRKp between April to June 2017 in the NICU, a thorough surveillance of similar cases and the hospital environment was performed to trace the source. All the isolated K. pneumoniae were tested for susceptibility to standard antibiotics by disc diffusion and microbroth dilution methods. Molecular detection of extended spectrum beta lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases (classes A, B, D) genes was done. Enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) PCR and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) was done to determine the genetic relatedness of the isolates. Characteristics of different sequence types were statistically compared (Student’s t-test).

Results

A total of 45 K. pneumoniae isolates were studied from NICU (14 cases of neonatal sepsis), ICU (18 cases), other wards (7 cases) along with 6 isolates from hospital environment and human colonizers. The primary case was identified in the ICU. All the K. pneumoniae from NICU and 94.4% from the ICU were colistin resistant CRKp. Majority (59.37% and 56.25%) harbored blaSHV/blaCTXM and blaOXA-48 genes, respectively. Two distinct sequence types ST5235 and ST5313 were noted with colistin resistance, distribution within the NICU and mortality as significant attributes of ST5235 (p < 0.05). The outbreak was contained with strengthening of the infection control practices and unintended short duration closure of the hospital.

Conclusion

Large hospital outbreaks with considerable mortality can be caused by non-dominant clones of colistin resistant CRKp harboring blaOXA-48 and blaNDM carbapenemases in endemic regions. The exact global impact of these sequence types should be further studied to prevent future fatal outbreaks.
Borderline personality disorder in young people: associations with support and negative interactions in relationships with mothers and a best friend
Authors: Hessels Christel J. , van den Berg Tessa , Lucassen Sofie A. , Laceulle Odilia M. , van Aken Marcel A. G.
Published: January 2022

Background

Impaired interpersonal functioning has been highlighted as a core feature of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Adolescence and young adulthood form important developmental stages within both the emergence of BPD and the development of interpersonal functioning, which takes place mostly in relationships with parents and friends. This study aimed to: (i) investigate relations between BPD symptoms and both supportive and negative interactions with mothers and best friends; (ii) investigate whether the relations were moderated by age; (iii) test the robustness of our findings by comparing the results based on self-reports with results from a subsample in which supportive and negative interactions with mothers were rated by the mother.

Methods

312 young people referred to mental healthcare completed self-report measures on BPD and supportive and negative interactions. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the relations between BPD features and perceived supportive and negative interactions with mothers and a best friend, and to investigate whether these relations were moderated by age. Robustness of our findings was studied in a subsample (n = 104), by using a multi-informant design in maternal report on supportive and negative interactions with mothers.

Results

Multiple regression analyses demonstrated that negative interactions with mothers as well as with a best friend were related to more BPD symptoms in young people. Supportive interactions were not related to BPD symptoms. Both BPD and quality of relations were not related to age. In a subsample in which supportive and negative interactions with mothers were rated by the mother, the maternal report showed slightly different results. In this model, both supportive and negative interactions with a best friend were positively related, whereas interactions with mothers were not related to BPD symptoms in young people.

Conclusions

Results highlight the importance of relationships with mothers and a best friend during adolescence and young adulthood. Given that BPD often emerges during this developmental phase, future research is needed to clarify how quality of relationships could alter pathways toward BPD in young people.

Trial registration

Not applicable.
Birdshot retinochoroiditis in Brazil: a multicenter review of 40 patients
Authors: da Fonsêca Maria Luisa Gois , Vianna Raul N. G. , Rocha Anna C. H. , Casella Antonio M. B. , Cialdini Arnaldo , Muccioli Cristina , da Costa Daniela S. , Lucena Daniel R. , Vasconcelos-Santos Daniel V. , Morizot Eduardo , Castro Elaine , Rodriguez Ever E. C. , Diligenti Felipe T. , Porto Fernanda B. O. , Nascimento Heloisa , Yanamoto Joyce H. , Oréfice Juliana L. , Muralha Lilia R. P. , Carneiro Luciana B. , Finamor Luciana P. S. , Frazão Maria A. M. , Motta Mario , Nobrega Mario J. , Zajdenweber Moyses E. , Moraes Remo T. , Meirelles Rodrigo L. , Lemos Sidney R. , de Araújo Wilton Feitosa
Published: January 2022

Background

Birdshot retinochoroiditis (BRC) is a rare and chronic bilateral uveitis mostly found in Caucasians. As few data are available about the clinical course of BRC in Hispanic patients, we aimed to report the clinical findings and the evolution of BRC in Brazilian patients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort multicenter nationwide study was performed by analyzing the records of patients with BRC diagnoses from Brazilian ophthalmological centers from April 1995 to May 2020.

Results

Forty patients (80 eyes) with a diagnosis of BRC were evaluated. The mean age was 53 years, and there was no sex predominance. All tested patients (34/40) were positive for HLA-A29. The diagnosis of BRC was made following the Levinson et al. criteria, and all ancillary tests were performed to exclude differential diagnoses. Clinical signs and symptoms, such as complications and treatment, were described.

Conclusions

BRC evolution in Brazilian patients seems to have some peculiarities that diverge from the published literature available about Caucasians, as AS inflammation is higher in this population.
Online student support: a framework for embedding support interventions into the online learning cycle
Authors: Rotar O.
Published: January 2022

Support is one of the crucial elements of online students’ success. Although many support strategies have been documented in the past, less is known at what stages of the learning cycle suggested interventions can be embedded into the online learning curriculum. This paper offers a systematic review of the 28 empirical studies on effective support strategies and interventions that are indexed by the SCOPUS database between 2010 and 2020. Following an Inclusive Student Services Process Model framework, identified strategies are allocated across different phases of student learning to indicate where and when they can be delivered to online students. The analysis suggests that the effectiveness of the support provision depends on the time when support is offered. Furthermore, it was found that two areas support delivery, namely support at transitions and measurement of support interventions, remain under-researched. Finally, the analysis showed two emerging trends in online students support: an increasing role of technology and social network sites to design support interventions and a shift to a more personalised yet holistic approach to student support.
Herbal medicine used for the treatment of diarrhea and cough in Kampala city, Uganda
Authors: Walusansa Abdul , Asiimwe Savina , Ssenku Jamilu. E. , Anywar Godwin , Namara Milbert , Nakavuma Jesca L. , Kakudidi Esezah K.
Published: January 2022

Background

Globally, diarrheal and respiratory diseases are among the main causes of mortality and morbidity. In Uganda, cities are facing proliferation of trade in herbal medicines (HM), including those for diarrhea and/or cough. Information on the economic, and the ethnopharmacological aspects of these HM is scarce, deterring the sector from achieving optimal capacity to support national development. We profiled the anti-diarrhea and/or anti-cough HM, and the basic economic aspects of HM trade in Kampala city, to support ethnopharmacological knowledge conservation and strategic planning.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 65 herbalists using semi-structured questionnaires. This was supplemented by an observational survey using a high-resolution digital camera. Data were collected following the guidelines for research on HM, established by Uganda National Drug Authority, and World Health organization.

Results

Eighty-four plant species from 41 families were documented. Fabaceae and Myricaceae had the highest number of species (9, 10.7% each). Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck was the most commonly cited for cough, with a relative frequency of citation (RFC) of 1.00, and its relative medical importance was not significantly different from the other top 5 species except for Azadirachta indica A.Juss (RFC = 0.87). Entada abyssinica A. Rich (RFC = 0.97) was the most cited for diarrhea. Trees (34, 40.5%) were mostly used, and mainly harvested from wild habitats (55.2%) in 20 districts across Uganda. These HM were mainly sold as powders and concoctions, in markets, shops, pharmacies, and roadside or mobile stalls. The highest prices were Uganda Shillings (UGX) 48,000 ($13.15)/kg for Allium sativum L, and UGX 16,000 ($4.38)/kg for C. limon. All participants used HM trade as a sole source of basic needs; majority (60.0%) earned net monthly profit of UGX. 730,000 ($200) ≤ 1,460,000 ($400). The main hindrances to HM trade were the; disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 65, 100%), and the scarcity of medicinal plants (58, 89.2%).

Conclusion

There is a rich diversity of medicinal plant species traded in Kampala to treat diarrhea and cough. The HM trade significantly contributes to the livelihoods of the traders in Kampala, as well as the different actors along the HM value chain throughout the country.
A review of stabilization methods for DCMG with CPL, the role of bandwidth limits and droop control
Authors: Ansari Sarah , Zhang Jing , Singh Rajat Emanuel
Published: January 2022

DC microgrids (DCMGs) integrate and coordinate various DC distribution generation units including various renewable energy sources and battery storage systems, and have been used in satellites, the International Space Station, telecom power stations, computer power supplies, electric aircraft, and electric ships. However, the presence of constant power loads (CPLs) can cause instability in DCMGs. Thus, this paper reviews the stabilization techniques that can resolve instability caused by CPLs, as well as various parameters of CPLs, such as bandwidth, and the frequency of the CPLs that can stabilize the DCMGs. It also discusses recent trends and future work in finding stability limits using the parameters of CPLs. It should be useful for directing research towards appropriate mathematical and experimental approaches for the stability of DCMGs with CPLs.
Effect of endophytic Bacillus and arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) against Fusarium wilt of tomato caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici
Authors: Devi Nongthombam Olivia , Tombisana Devi R. K. , Debbarma Manashi , Hajong Monika , Thokchom Sushanti
Published: January 2022

Background

Fusariumwilt of tomato caused byFusarium oxysporumf. sp.lycopersici(FOL) is a serious disease that causes significant economic losses in tomato production. Seventeen endophyticBacillusisolates from tomato roots of Meghalaya were tested for antagonistic and plant growth promotion activities. Dominating arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) spores were isolated from the rhizosphere soils of tomato grown in Meghalaya. The effect of different combinations of AMF and endophyticBacillusonFusariumwilt severity and growth of tomato plant under pot and field conditions was studied.

Results

The endophyticBacillusisolates ERBS51 and ERBS10 showed a maximum inhibition against FOL, with 58.43 and 55.68%, respectively, in a dual culture experiment. ERBS51 and ERBS10 were identified asBacillus velezensisandBacillussp., respectively, based on 16s rRNA sequencing. Both isolates were found positive for iturin A, surfactin, bacillomycin D, protease, cellulase, pectinase, alpha-amylase, siderophore, ammonia production and ZnCO3solubilization.Funneliformis mosseaeandGlomus fasciculatumwere the dominating AMF species in tomato rhizosphere of Meghalaya. The result of pot and field experiments revealed that out of all the treatments, combination ofFunneliformis mosseae + Glomus fasciculatum + Bacillus velezensis + Bacillussp. was shown to be the best in reducing the severity ofFusariumwilt to 77.44 and 66.74%, respectively.F. mosseae + G. fasciculatum + B. velezensis + Bacillussp. also recorded the highest in most growth attributes and yield.

Conclusions

EndophyticBacillus(B. velezensisandBacillussp.) and AMF (F. mosseaeandG. fasciculatum) were safe and effective biocontrol agents againstFusariumwilt of tomato.
Kruppel-like factor 5 (Klf5) in fetal-maternal tissue during periimplantation and effects of ovarian steroid hormone antagonist on its expression during uterine receptivity of albino mice
Authors: Talukdar Kanmuna Ray , Saikia Purbajyoti , Sarma Hirendra N.
Published: January 2022

Background

Embryo implantation is a tightly regulated sequence of events regulated by ovarian steroids, estrogen and progesterone, and their downstream targets. Ovarian steroids regulate most of the genes involved in embryo implantation and pregnancy. However, some factors are not regulated by ovarian steroids, estrogen, progesterone, or both. Kruppel-like factor 5 (Klf5) is an example of an ovarian steroid–independent factor having a role in cellular proliferation, differentiation. The detailed expression profile of Klf5 during uterine receptivity and periimplantation has not been studied till now. In the present research work, an attempt was made to investigate the expression pattern of Klf5 in mice fetal-maternal tissue during periimplantation (day 4–day 8). The expressional and functional independence of Klf5 on the ovarian steroids was studied using estrogen and progesterone antagonist. The study was carried out in female Swiss albino mice of LACA strain during the periimplantation period. KLF5 was localized in the fetal-maternal tissues using the immunofluorescence technique in paraffin-embedded tissues. Ovarian steroid antagonists were administered subcutaneously from day 1 to day 3 of gestation, and the uterus was collected on the morning of day 4. Klf5 protein and mRNA levels were studied by western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), respectively.

Results

KLF5 was localized in the embryo, uterine luminal epithelium, glandular epithelium, and proliferating stromal cells during periimplantation. In ovarian steroid antagonist–treated groups, KLF5 was localized in the luminal and glandular epithelium and stroma. Western blot and qPCR confirmed translation and transcription of KLF5 during the experimental period. The KLF5 protein level significantly increased on day 6, day 7, and day 8 when compared with day 4 (P < 0.05). The mRNA level of Klf5 increased significantly on day 7 and day 8 when compared with day 4 (P < 0.05). In ovarian steroid antagonist–treated groups, protein and mRNA corresponding to Klf5 were observed. From this finding, it can be assumed that Klf5 may be a steroid-independent factor expressed during uterine receptivity.

Conclusion

Spatiotemporal KLF5 expression in fetal-maternal tissue was observed during the experimental period. The results suggest that Klf5 is an ovarian steroid–independent factor that may play a pivotal role in implantation, decidualization, and embryogenesis.
Investigation of the correlation between cardiac parameters and aortic diameter in patients with ascending aortic aneurysm
Authors: Etli Mustafa , Avnioglu Seda , Yilmaz Halil , Karahan Oguz
Published: January 2022

Background

Aortic aneurysms (AA) are enlargement of the aorta silently until diagnosing, not detectable on physical examination, and usually incidentally discovered during radiologic scanning for other reasons. It can get bigger sizes and can result in life-threatening outcomes if not detected early on. In this study, we aimed to determine the relationship between ascending aortic diameter and cardiac parameters that can be detected with tomography or/and echocardiography. Newly diagnosed (n: 85) ascending AA patients and healthy individuals (n: 86) who have not any thoracic pathology in computed tomography (CT) scans included to the study. Echocardiographically determined left atrial dimension (LAD), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVDd), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVDs), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and the left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWd) values of each patient were recorded. The thorax diameters, ascending aorta diameters and cardiac volume values recorded from CT scans. The obtained findings were statistically compared.

Results

Positive correlation was found between aortic diameter and aging (p: 0.000). Increased thorax diameter and cardiac volume values were detected in ascending AA cases (p < 0.05). It was found to be ascending aortic diameter was positively correlated with thorax diameter and cardiac volume (0.50 < r ≤ 0.70) values and higher aortic diameter, cardiac volume, thorax diameter values were detected in male individuals when compared with the female gender. There was no significant correlation between LVEF, LVDd, and LVDs values and aortic diameter.

Conclusions

Cardiac volume and thorax diameter were found as strongly correlated with the diameter of the ascending aorta. The clarifying of these parameters with larger cohorts might be beneficial for the estimation of the progression of ascending AA.
Analytical quality by design approach to RP-HPLC method development and validation for simultaneous estimation of esomeprazole and naproxen in modified-release dosage form
Authors: Urmi Khandokar Farjana , Nawaz Md. Saddam , Islam S. M. Ashraful
Published: January 2022

Background

The present work describes the development and validation of a new, specific, accurate, and precise stability-indicating RP-HPLC method for the simultaneous estimation of Esomeprazole (ESP) and Naproxen (NAP) in modified-release bi-layer tablet dosage form. Analytical Quality by Design concept was implemented through the method development exercise to establish the robustness of the method.

Results

Method development was performed on C18, 250 × 4.6 mm ID, and 5 µm particle size column with 10 µl injection volume using a photodiode array (PDA) detector to monitor the detection at 280 nm. The mobile phase consisted of the buffer: methanol at a ratio of 50: 50 (v/v), and the flow rate was maintained at 1.5 ml/min, and the column oven temperature was maintained at 30 °C. The retention times for NAP and ESP were found 5.9 ± 0.1 and 8.9 ± 0.1 min, respectively. The method was validated in terms of system suitability, specificity, accuracy, linearity, precision, and solution stability. Linearity was observed over the range of concentration 8–12 µg/ml for ESP and 200–300 µg/ml for NAP, and the correlation coefficient (R2) was found excellent > 0.999. The method was specific to ESP and NAP, and the peak purity was found 99.97% for ESP and 100.00% for NAP. The method was precise and had %RSD less than 2. Recovery study for accuracy with placebo was found in the range of 99.63–100.36% for ESP and 99.91–100.43% for NAP.

Conclusion

This proposed fast, reliable, cost-effective method can be used as a quality control tool for the simultaneous determination of Esomeprazole and Naproxen in routine laboratory analysis.

Graphical Abstract
Elastic least-squares reverse time migration of steeply dipping structures using prismatic reflections
Authors: Wu Zheng , Liu Yuzhu , Yang Jizhong
Published: January 2022

The migration of prismatic reflections can be used to delineate steeply dipping structures, which is crucial for oil and gas exploration and production. Elastic least-squares reverse time migration (ELSRTM), which considers the effects of elastic wave propagation, can be used to obtain reasonable subsurface reflectivity estimations and interpret multicomponent seismic data. In most cases, we can only obtain a smooth migration model. Thus, conventional ELSRTM, which is based on the first-order Born approximation, considers only primary reflections and cannot resolve steeply dipping structures. To address this issue, we develop an ELSRTM framework, called Pris-ELSRTM, which can jointly image primary and prismatic reflections in multicomponent seismic data. When Pris-ELSRTM is directly applied to multicomponent records, near-vertical structures can be resolved. However, the application of imaging conditions established for prismatic reflections to primary reflections destabilizes the process and leads to severe contamination of the results. Therefore, we further improve the Pris-ELSRTM framework by separating prismatic reflections from recorded multicomponent data. By removing artificial imaging conditions from the normal equation, primary and prismatic reflections can be imaged based on unique imaging conditions. The results of synthetic tests and field data applications demonstrate that the improved Pris-ELSRTM framework produces high-quality images of steeply dipping P- and S-wave velocity structures. However, it is difficult to delineate steep density structures because of the insensitivity of the density to prismatic reflections.
Natural Language Processing of Large-Scale Structured Radiology Reports to Identify Oncologic Patients With or Without Splenomegaly Over a 10-Year Period
Authors: Sun Simon , Lupton Kaelan , Batch Karen , Nguyen Huy , Gazit Lior , Gangai Natalie , Cho Jessica , Nicholas Kevin , Zulkernine Farhana , Sevilimedu Varadan , Simpson Amber , Do Richard K. G.
Published: January 2022

PURPOSE

To assess the accuracy of a natural language processing (NLP) model in extracting splenomegaly described in patients with cancer in structured computed tomography radiology reports.

METHODS

In this retrospective study between July 2009 and April 2019, 3,87,359 consecutive structured radiology reports for computed tomography scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis from 91,665 patients spanning 30 types of cancer were included. A randomized sample of 2,022 reports from patients with colorectal cancer, hepatobiliary cancer (HB), leukemia, Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), and non-HL patients was manually annotated as positive or negative for splenomegaly. NLP model training/testing was performed on 1,617/405 reports, and a new validation set of 400 reports from all cancer subtypes was used to test NLP model accuracy, precision, and recall. Overall survival was compared between the patient groups (with and without splenomegaly) using Kaplan-Meier curves.

RESULTS

The final cohort included 3,87,359 reports from 91,665 patients (mean age 60.8 years; 51.2% women). In the testing set, the model achieved accuracy of 92.1%, precision of 92.2%, and recall of 92.1% for splenomegaly. In the validation set, accuracy, precision, and recall were 93.8%, 92.9%, and 86.7%, respectively. In the entire cohort, splenomegaly was most frequent in patients with leukemia (32.5%), HB (17.4%), non-HL (9.1%), colorectal cancer (8.5%), and HL (5.6%). A splenomegaly label was associated with an increased risk of mortality in the entire cohort (hazard ratio 2.10; 95% CI, 1.98 to 2.22; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Automated splenomegaly labeling by NLP of radiology report demonstrates good accuracy, precision, and recall. Splenomegaly is most frequently reported in patients with leukemia, followed by patients with HB.
Deintensified Chemoradiotherapy for Pretreatment Epstein-Barr Virus DNA-Selected Low-Risk Locoregionally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Phase II Randomized Noninferiority Trial
Authors: Li Xiao-Yun , Luo Dong-Hua , Guo Ling , Mo Hao-Yuan , Sun Rui , Guo Shan-Shan , Liu Li-Ting , Yang Zhen-Chong , Yang Jin-Hao , Qiu Fang , Sun Xue-Song , Wang Pan , Liu Qing , Li Ji-Bin , Tang Qing-Nan , Lin Chao , Yang Qi , Liu Sai-Lan , Liang Yu-Jing , Jia Guo-Dong , Wen Dong-Xiang , Guo Chun-Yan , Yan Jin-Jie , Zhao Chong , Chen Qiu-Yan , Tang Lin-Quan , Mai Hai-Qiang
Published: January 2022

PURPOSE

Cumulative doses of 200 mg/m2 for concurrent cisplatin (DDP) were indicated by retrospective studies as sufficient in conferring survival benefit for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA-NPC). We performed an open-label, phase II, randomized, controlled trial to test the noninferiority of a two-cycle 100 mg/m2 concurrent DDP regimen over three-cycle in patients with low-risk LA-NPC with pretreatment Epstein-Barr virus DNA levels < 4,000 copies/mL.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive two cycles or three cycles concurrent DDP-based chemoradiotherapy. The primary end point was 3-year progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary end points included overall survival, distant metastasis-free survival, locoregional relapse-free survival, etc.

RESULTS

Between September 2016 and October 2018, 332 patients were enrolled, with 166 in each arm. After a median follow-up of 37.7 months, the estimated 3-year PFS rates were 88.0% in the two-cycle group and 90.4% in the three-cycle group, with a difference of 2.4% (95% CI, –4.3 to 9.1, Pnoninferiority = .014). No differences were observed between groups in terms of PFS, overall survival, and the cumulative incidences of locoregional relapse and distant metastasis. Patients in the three-cycle group developed significantly more grade 3-4 mucositis (41 [24.8%] v 25 [15.1%]), hyponatremia (26 [15.8%] v 14 [8.4%]), and dermatitis (9 [5.5%] v 2 [1.2%]). The overall all-grade and grade 3-4 toxicity burdens were heavier in three-cycle group (T-scores, 12.33 v 10.57, P < .001 for all grades; 1.76 v 1.44, P = .05 for grade 3-4). Patients in the three-cycle group also showed more all-grade hearing impairment, dry mouth and skin fibrosis, and impaired long-term quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Intensity-modulated radiotherapy plus two cycles of concurrent 100 mg/m2 DDP could be an alternative treatment option for patients with low-risk LA-NPC.
Loss of p19Arf promotes fibroblast survival during leucine deprivation
Authors: Roby Kerry C. , Lieberman Allyson , Kim Bang-Jin , Rodríguez Nicole Zaragoza , Posimo Jessica M. , Tsang Tiffany , Verginadis Ioannis I. , Puré Ellen , Brady Donita C. , Koumenis Constantinos , Ryeom Sandra
Published: January 2022

Fibroblasts are quiescent and tumor suppressive in nature but become activated in wound healing and cancer. The response of fibroblasts to cellular stress has not been extensively investigated, however the p53 tumor suppressor has been shown to be activated in fibroblasts during nutrient deprivation. Since the p19 Alternative reading frame (p19Arf) tumor suppressor is a key regulator of p53 activation during oncogenic stress, we investigated the role of p19Arf in fibroblasts during nutrient deprivation. Here, we show that prolonged leucine deprivation results in increased expression and nuclear localization of p19Arf, triggering apoptosis in primary murine adult lung fibroblasts (ALFs). In contrast, the absence of p19Arf during long-term leucine deprivation resulted in increased ALF proliferation, migration and survival through upregulation of the Integrated Stress Response pathway and increased autophagic flux. Our data implicates a new role for p19Arf in response to nutrient deprivation.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Application of multimodal imaging in the diagnosis of intrahepatic splenosis: Two case reports and a literature review
Authors: Liu Weimin , Chen Simin , Chen Jianning , Jiang Ting , Quan Li , Xie Sidong
Published: January 2022

Intrahepatic splenosis is quite rare and is often misdiagnosed as other lesions. We present two cases of intrahepatic splenosis examined with hepatobiliary contrast agents, intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging and magnetic resonance elastography. We discuss various imaging modalities and the roles of various magnetic resonance imaging methods in diagnosis. We also discuss the differentiating features that allow the correct diagnosis to be made and provide a brief review of the literature.
The National Composite Index for Family Planning (NCIFP): Results and Methodological Issues
Authors: Rosenberg Rebecca , Ross John , Hardee Karen , Zosa-Feranil Imelda
Published: January 2022

Background:  The “ FP2020 Global Partnership” signaled a shift to broader, rights-based approaches to family planning programs, and the National Composite Index for Family Planning was developed as part of related measurement efforts.

Methods: In each country 10-15 experts on the family planning program completed a 35-item questionnaire, first in 2014 in 89 countries, and in 2017 in 84 countries. Data were entered in Excel, with checks for consistency and data quality. The total score, and scores for each of 5 dimensions of effort are averages across the 35 indicators. Analytic techniques included cross-tabulations, graphical and correlation approaches.

Results: The average total score for all countries in 2017 was 64 of the maximum of 100 of effort. Sub-regions differed: Anglophone and Francophone sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) scored highest in the total score and across all 5 dimensions. Next in order came Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, and Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Despite large differences in scores, the sub-regions followed similar profiles across the 35  indicators.

The long term rise in the basic family planning effort scores continued, extending the series from surveys approximately every five years beginning in the 1980s. The highest score reached was for the strategy dimension, but the others were close. Their relative levels remained essentially the same as in the 2014 survey.                    

NCIFP scores correlated positively with modern contraceptive use in both the sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and non-sub-Saharan Africa (non-SSA) countries, but the relationships were stronger for SSA. Access to long-acting and permanent methods (LAPMs) was accompanied by greater LAPM use and modern method use.

Conclusion: Repeated surveys in most developing countries show improvements in family planning effort, though unevenly, by 35 indicators and across regions.
The impact of digital communications on tourism marketing
Authors: Tranchenko L. V. , Tereshchuk N. V. , Lopatiuk R. I. , Tranchenko O. M.
Published: January 2022

The influence of digital communications on marketing in the field of tourism is investigated. The need to develop strategies for the formation of business communications in the field of tourism and indicators that allow to evaluate their effectiveness and risks is emphasized. Attention is paid to the feasibility in applying strategies of differentiated, differentiated and concentrated marketing. The relevant indicators were proposed to assess the economic effectiveness of business communication strategies: income multipliers, breakeviate level assessment formula, methodology for checking the stability of the performance indicator to change factors, and Hurwitz criterion. The considered formulas and strategies for the formation of business communications in tourism create the necessary basis for scientifically justified strategic planning of the travel company's relations with counterparties.
Stoma product selection: a guide for community nurses
Authors: Burch Jennie
Published: January 2022

With 205 000 people in the UK with a stoma, it is likely that community nurses will need to consider which stoma products are most appropriate to use with this group of patients. This article explores the three output stomas, what stoma appliances are most commonly used for each type of stoma and why. Understanding how often stoma appliances should be changed empowers the community nurse in their decision-making process to ascertain whether changes to current care are needed. There is also information available about some of the more commonly used stoma accessories and when these may be necessary. With so many stoma-related products available, it can be difficult to know what to use and when; therefore, this article seeks to offer data to aid stoma care in the community.
Non-pharmacological interventions for managing pain in community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Tripathi Shiva , Venkata Munukutla , Hill James , Harrison Joanna
Published: January 2022

Pain is a complex and common issue within older adults. This complexity can be a direct result of comorbidities and the subsequent polypharmacy. The effective control of pain in older adults needs more than just pharmacological management. Non-pharmacological interventions have been demonstrated to be beneficial when combined with pain medications. This commentary critically appraises a systematic review that examines the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for the management of pain in community dwelling older adults.