bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-triple helical form of type IV collagen alpha1 chain suppresses vascular endothelial-cadherin mediated cell-to-cell junctions
Authors: Togashi Kenshi , Shin Yongchol , Imamura Yasutada
Published: June 2022

Non-triple helical collagen polypeptide α1(IV) (NTH α1(IV)) is a gene product of COL4A1 and is secreted as a polypeptide chain without the triple helix structure under physiological conditions. Studies have shown that NTH α1(IV) is up-regulated in and around vascular endothelial cells during neovascularization and vascular-like networks of in vitro angiogenesis models, suggesting its involvement in angiogenesis. In the present study, we examined the effect of NTH α1(IV) on endothelial cell-to-cell junctions, and we found that NTH α1(IV) suppressed VE-cadherin (vascular endothelial cadherin) mediated junctions and promoted cellular migration in human umbilical vein endothelial cell cultures. NTH α1(IV) is potentially a factor that induces VE-cadherin endocytosis and promotes neovascular sprouting and elongation. The possible mechanism entails endocytosis of NTH α1(IV) by its cellular receptor(s), Endo180 and/or other proteins, which results in the clearance of the cellular receptor(s) from the cell surface, thus inducing the endocytosis of VE-cadherin. Because the NC1 domain of the α1 chain of type IV collagen, called arresten, is considered an endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis, it seems that the single polypeptide chain of NTH α1(IV) has conflicting functions.
Plant latent defense response to microbial non-pathogenic factors antagonizes compatibility
Authors: Yang Yu , Chen Shenglan , Wu Xiaoxuan , Peng Li , Vílchez Juan I , Kaushal Richa , Liu Xiaomin , Singh Sunil K , He Danxia , Yuan Fengtong , Lv Suhui , Morcillo Rafael J L , Wang Wei , Huang Weichang , Lei Mingguang , Zhu Jian-Kang , Paré Paul W , Zhang Huiming
Published: June 2022

Unlike microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) that are readily targeted by host immunity, microbial non-pathogenic factors (NPFs) appear negligible as they do not elicit defense. Little is known about whether and how NPFs may be monitored by hosts to control compatibility. Herein, a forward genetic screening isolated an Arabidopsis mutant with a loss of plant-rhizobacteria mutualism, leading to the disclosure of a plant latent defense response (LDR) to NPFs. The activation of LDR in the mutant, named rol1 for regulator of LDR 1, is triggered by several non-pathogenic volatile organic compounds and antagonizes plant compatibility with the beneficial bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GB03. The activation of LDR in rol1 is mediated through the prokaryotic pathway of chloroplastic lipid biosynthesis. The rol1 root microbiome showed a reduced proportion of the Bacillaceae family. We propose that, parallel to the forefront immunity to MAMPs, LDR to certain NPFs provides a hidden layer of defense for controlling compatibility with commensal or beneficial microbes.
One in 10 Virally Suppressed Persons With HIV in The Netherlands Experiences ≥10% Weight Gain After Switching to Tenofovir Alafenamide and/or Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor
Authors: Verburgh Myrthe L , Wit Ferdinand W N M , Boyd Anders , Verboeket Sebastiaan O , Reiss Peter , van der Valk Marc
Published: June 2022

Background

We determined the frequency of and factors associated with ≥10% weight gain and its metabolic effects in virally suppressed people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) from the Dutch national AIDS Therapy Evaluation in the Netherlands (ATHENA) cohort switching to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) and/or integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI).

Methods

We identified antiretroviral therapy–experienced but TAF/INSTI-naive PWH who switched to a TAF and/or INSTI-containing regimen while virally suppressed for >12 months. Individuals with comorbidities/comedication associated with weight change were excluded. Analyses were stratified by switch to only TAF, only INSTI, or TAF + INSTI. Factors associated with ≥10% weight gain were assessed using parametric survival models. Changes in glucose, lipids, and blood pressure postswitch were modeled using mixed-effects linear regression and compared between those with and without ≥10% weight gain.

Results

Among 1544 PWH who switched to only TAF, 2629 to only INSTI, and 918 to combined TAF + INSTI, ≥10% weight gain was observed in 8.8%, 10.6%, and 14.4%, respectively. Across these groups, weight gain was more frequent in Western and sub-Saharan African females than Western males. Weight gain was also more frequent in those with weight loss ≥1 kg/year before switching, age <40 years, and those discontinuing efavirenz. In those with ≥10% weight gain, 53.7% remained in the same body mass index (BMI) category, while a BMI change from normal/overweight at baseline to obesity at 24 months postswitch was seen in 13.9%, 11.7%, and 15.2% of those switching to only TAF, only INSTI, and TAF + INSTI, respectively. PWH with ≥10% weight gain showed significantly larger, but small increases in glucose, blood pressure, and lipid levels. Lipid increases were limited to those whose switch included TAF, whereas lipids decreased after switching to only INSTI.

Conclusions

Weight gain of ≥10% after switch to TAF and/or INSTI was common in virally suppressed PWH, particularly in females and those starting both drugs simultaneously. Consequent changes in metabolic parameters were, however, modest.
Revision to the nomenclatural status of Trapania (Nudibranchia: Goniodorididae)
Authors: Smirnoff Dimitri S , Donohoo Samantha A , Gosliner Terrence M
Published: June 2022

In a recent paper describing several new species Trapania Pruvot-Fol, 1931, a genus of dorid nudibranchs in the family Goniodorididae, one of the species named was published with two spellings of the species name. This error was introduced by copy editors after the authors had submitted the corrected proofs of the final version of the paper. Here we revise the taxonomy of this species and establish that Trapania lemnalioides is the correct name for this species.
Responsiveness of the UW Concerns About Pain Scale and UW Pain-Related Self-Efficacy Scale in Individuals With Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Akkarakittichoke Nipaporn , Janwantanakul Prawit , Kanlayanaphotporn Rotsalai , Jensen Mark P.
Published: June 2022

Objectives:

The aim was to examine the responsiveness, presence of floor or ceiling effects, and minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) for 2 new measures of pain-related catastrophizing and self-efficacy in individuals with chronic low back pain.

Methods:

A total of 183 individuals with chronic low back pain recruited from physical therapy clinics in Thailand completed the Thai versions of the 6-item University of Washington Concerns About Pain scale (T-UW-CAP6) and 6-item University of Washington Pain-Related Self-Efficacy scale (T-UW-PRSE6) at baseline and at 4 weeks follow-up. Perceived change in low back symptom was assessed at 4 weeks using a 7-point measure of Global Perceived Effect (GPE). Responsiveness of the T-UW-CAP6 and the T-UW-PRSE6 scale scores were evaluated by computing the effect sizes and standardized response means for change over time, and examining these as a function of the GPE ratings. Floor and ceiling effects were examined by evaluating the score distributions. Scale core MCIDs were estimated by computing a half a SD and SE of measurement statistics for each scale.

Results:

Responsiveness of the scales to pain treatment was supported by differences found in the mean change scores as a function of the treatment response categories. No significant floor or ceiling effects were found for either measure. Changes of 4.38 and 3.68 appeared to be the smallest change score perceived as clinical meaningful for the T-UW-CAP6 and T-UW-PRSE 6 scale scores, respectively.

Discussion:

The T-UW-CAP6 and T-UW-PRSE6 demonstrated good ability to detect perceived changes over time in patients with chronic low back pain. The MCIDs values provide a benchmark for assessing individual improvement in this clinical context.
Audiovestibular Consequences of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection: Greater Vulnerability of the Vestibular Part of the Inner Ear
Authors: Chebib Emilien , Maudoux Audrey , Benoit Charlotte , Bernard Sophie , Van Den Abbeele Thierry , Teissier Natacha , Wiener Vacher Sylvette R.
Published: June 2022

Objectives:

To investigate the impact of congenital cytomegalovirus infection on cochlear and vestibular function.

Design:

This retrospective study conducted between March 2014 and March 2020 included children with confirmed congenital cytomegalovirus infection who underwent a complete audio-vestibular evaluation. It included a bithermal caloric test, a video head impulse test and a cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential associated with a complete hearing assessment.

Results:

The cohort of 130 children included in the study had a median age of 21 months (interquartile range: 12 to 37 months). Eighty-three children (64%) showed an inner ear impairment (both cochlear and vestibular). The vestibular part of the inner ear was significantly more frequently impaired than the cochlear part (ρ = 0.003). Sixty-two children (48%) showed confirmed hearing impairment. The severity of hearing loss was variable, with a high proportion of profound hearing loss (30/62, 48%), which was often bilateral (47/62, 76%). The vestibular assessment showed a canal function disorder in 67 children (88%) and an otolith function disorder in 63 children (83%; ρ = 0.36). The video head impulse test was significantly less altered (64%) compared with the bithermal caloric test (80%; ρ = 0.02) and the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (83%; ρ = 0.009). Only seven out of 83 children (8%) showed hearing loss without vestibular dysfunction, of which only one had a normal hearing screening test at birth. For the children who passed the hearing screening test at birth and presented an inner ear impairment [n = 36, median age: 16 (11 to 34) months], vestibular disorders were later found in 35 children (97%) and 17 of them (47%) developed hearing loss secondarily. This underlines the importance of assessing both vestibular and auditory parts of the inner ear. When comparing the agreement of cochlear and vestibular impairment, the severity and the laterality of the impairment were low [Cohen’s kappa 0.31 (0.22 to 0.40) and 0.43 (0.32 to 0.55), respectively].

Conclusion:

In our study, we demonstrated that although both cochlear and vestibular parts of the inner ear can be impaired by congenital cytomegalovirus infection, the vestibular part seems more often impaired compared with the cochlear part. This underlines the importance of vestibular evaluation in the follow-up of cytomegalovirus-infected children associated with hearing assessment.
Technique and Early Outcomes for High-Energy Calcaneus Fractures Treated With Staged External Fixation to Combined Open Reduction Internal Fixation and Subtalar Arthrodesis
Authors: Neumaier Mackenzie , Kohring Jessica , Ciufo David , Ketz John P.
Published: June 2022

Objective:

(1) To present an effective surgical technique for the treatment of open and high-energy calcaneal fractures with significant soft tissue injuries. (2) To present complications with this technique and to evaluate patient-reported outcomes of staged external fixation followed by delayed reconstruction with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and subtalar arthrodesis.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Setting:

Level I trauma center.

Patients/Participants:

Twelve patients with 13 calcaneus fractures associated with open traumatic wounds (10 patients) or other severe soft tissue injury (ie, fracture blisters) between April 2013 and December 2019.

Intervention:

All patients were treated with staged ankle-spanning external fixation and delayed reconstruction with ORIF with subtalar arthrodesis.

Main Outcome Measures:

Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) outcomes are presented via the domains of physical function (PF), pain interference (PI), and depression (D) in addition to visual analog score. Complications with the injury and surgical procedure were reported as well.

Results:

Patients underwent initial stabilization on average 1.3 days (range, 0–12 days) from injury with stage II occurring on average 31.1 days (range, 18–42 days) from external fixation. Mean time to radiographic union was 5.6 months (range, 4–10 months). One-year mean PROMIS outcomes were as follows: PF final average of 37.4 with an average improvement of 12.2 (P < 0.01), PI final average of 62.2 with average improvement of 5.6 (P = 0.01), and D final average of 52.1 with average improvement of 6 (P = 0.12). Mean final visual analog score pain score was 3.6 with an average improvement of 2.25 (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Staged treatment with initial external fixation followed by ORIF and subtalar arthrodesis in the setting of highly comminuted calcaneus fractures with significant soft tissue compromise effectively addresses both bony and soft tissue concerns while providing for positive outcomes postoperatively with regards to pain and function. There were minimal complications noted for this complex injury.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The Contribution of Chest X-Ray to Predict Extubation Failure in Mechanically Ventilated Patients Using Machine Learning-Based Algorithms
Authors: Fukuchi Kiyoyasu , Osawa Itsuki , Satake Shunya , Ito Honoka , Shibata Junichiro , Dohi Eisuke , Kasugai Daisuke , Miyamoto Yoshihisa , Ohbe Hiroyuki , Tamoto Mitsuhiro , Yamada Naoki , Yoshikawa Keisuke , Goto Tadahiro
Published: June 2022

OBJECTIVES:

To evaluate the contribution of a preextubation chest X-ray (CXR) to identify the risk of extubation failure in mechanically ventilated patients.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS:

ICUs in a tertiary center (the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database).

PATIENTS:

Patients greater than or equal to 18 years old who were mechanically ventilated and extubated after a spontaneous breathing trial.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Among 1,066 mechanically ventilated patients, 132 patients (12%) experienced extubation failure, defined as reintubation or death within 48 hours of extubation. To predict extubation failure, we developed the following models based on deep learning (EfficientNet) and machine learning (LightGBM) with the training data: 1) model using only the rapid-shallow breathing index (RSBI), 2) model using RSBI and CXR, 3) model using all candidate clinical predictors (i.e., patient demographics, vital signs, laboratory values, and ventilator settings) other than CXR, and 4) model using all candidate clinical predictors with CXR. We compared the predictive abilities between models with the test data to investigate the predictive contribution of CXR. The predictive ability of the model using CXR as well as RSBI was not significantly higher than that of the model using only RSBI (c-statistics, 0.56 vs 0.56; p = 0.95). The predictive ability of the model using clinical predictors with CXR was not significantly higher than that of the model using all clinical predictors other than CXR (c-statistics, 0.71 vs 0.70; p = 0.12). Based on SHapley Additive exPlanations values to interpret the model using all clinical predictors with CXR, CXR was less likely to contribute to the predictive ability than other predictors (e.g., duration of mechanical ventilation, inability to follow commands, and heart rate).

CONCLUSIONS:

Adding CXR to a set of other clinical predictors in our prediction model did not significantly improve the predictive ability of extubation failure in mechanically ventilated patients.
Thoracic Aortic Graft Salvage after Sternal Wound Infection with Antibiotic Beads and Flap Coverage
Authors: Cole Samuel H. , Wagner Ryan D. , Volk Angela S. , Nemec Michelle K. , Preventza Ourania A. , La Cruz Kim De , Coselli Joseph S. , Izaddoost Shayan A.
Published: June 2022

Infections involving thoracic aortic grafts are difficult to treat and have devastating consequences. The traditional approaches to surgical management include aggressive debridement with graft explantation and replacement. Despite treatment, the reported morbidity and mortality rates are high. The purpose of this study was to present our experience with an innovative approach to aortic graft salvage in the setting of sternal wound infection using antibiotic impregnated polymethylmethacrylate beads followed by definitive wound closure with flap coverage. A retrospective review identified patients with surgical wounds after aortic graft or cardiac valve placement over a 7-year period at a single institution. Patients were treated using an algorithm consisting of repeated surgical debridement and placement of antibiotic beads followed by flap coverage after suppression of the infection. A total of 20 patients were treated for surgical wounds, including 19 sternal and one thoracotomy wound. Culture positive surgical site infections were documented in 16 patients. One patient required a bead exchange before definitive closure. There were no in-hospital mortalities. All but two patients achieved successful infection suppression and wound closure with flap coverage. The use of antibiotic beads with serial debridement and flap closure may offer a valid option for aortic graft salvage in the setting of infected sternal wounds in the appropriate patient population. The proposed algorithm showed that patients may be successfully treated, and their infection suppressed without the need for graft removal. Mortality rates were lower from those previously reported in the literature.
Hemodynamics and Vascular Histology of Keloid Tissues and Anatomy of Nearby Blood Vessels
Authors: Eura Shigeyoshi , Nakao Junichi , Iimura Takeshi , Ichinose Shizuko , Kaku Chiemi , Dohi Teruyuki , Akaishi Satoshi , Tosa Mamiko , Ogawa Rei
Published: June 2022

Background:

Keloids are red‚ invasive scars that are driven by chronic inflammation in the reticular dermis. The role of blood vessels in keloid behavior remains poorly understood. In the present study with 32 keloid patients, we examined the hemodynamics of keloid tissue, the anatomy of the blood vessels feeding and draining the keloids, and the vascular histology of keloids.

Methods:

Ten patients with large anterior chest keloids underwent near-infrared spectroscopy, which measured regional saturation of oxygen and total hemoglobin index in the keloid and surrounding skin. Another 10 patients with large chest keloids and three healthy volunteers underwent multidetector-low computed tomography. The extirpated chest keloids of 12 patients were subjected to histology with optical, CD31 immunohistochemical, and electron microscopy.

Results:

All keloids had a low regional saturation of oxygen and a high total hemoglobin index, which is indicative of blood congestion. Multidetector-low computed tomography revealed dilation of the arteries and veins that were respectively feeding and draining the keloid leading edge. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and CD31 immunohistochemisty revealed considerable neovascularization in the keloid leading edge but not in the center. Electron microscopy showed that the lumens of many vessels in the keloid center appeared to be occluded or narrowed.

Conclusions:

Keloids seem to be congested because of increased neovascularization and arterial inflow at the leading edge and blocked outflow due to vascular destruction in the center. The surrounding veins seem to expand in response to this congested state. Methods that improve the blood circulation in keloids may be effective therapies.
Examining the Evidence From Single-Case Experimental Designs to Treat Challenging Behaviors Following Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Beaulieu Cynthia L. , Persel Chris , Shannon Tracy , Whyte John , Hurlburt Daniel , Huffine Natasha , Bogner Jennifer
Published: June 2022

Objective:

To evaluate evidence on the effectiveness of behavioral interventions using single-case experimental design (SCED) methodology and to identify behavioral interventions with sufficient evidence for possible inclusion in the development of guidelines for the management of challenging behaviors in adults following moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods:

As a subinvestigation of a larger systematic review process designed to identify evidence for guidelines development, the current review focused on studies using SCED methodology applied to persons with challenging behaviors following moderate to severe TBI. Articles were identified from a search of the published literature through January 2021, identifying studies in CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, MEDLINE/Ovid, and PsycINFO. Articles meeting inclusion criteria were assessed for design rigor to allow for effect size determination. The identified cases were then critically appraised using the RoBiNT (Risk-of-Bias in N-of-1 Trails) Scale to determine strength of evidence for causal inference.

Results:

Thirty-four studies met inclusion criteria, with a total of 44 cases evaluated for effect of the treatment intervention on defined target behaviors. Seventeen cases had effect sizes rated as large, 22 cases as medium, 3 cases as small, and 3 as no effect. An observed trend was for large and medium effect sizes to be associated with lower RoBiNT Scale internal validity scores. Randomization, blinded provider and assessor, and assessment of treatment adherence were the internal validity items unlikely to meet criteria.

Conclusions:

SCED methodology was found to produce large and medium effect sizes for behavioral interventions targeting challenging behaviors following moderate to severe TBI. However, the strength of the evidence is limited because of weaknesses in study designs. Most of the studies failed to meet established internal validity criteria designed to reduce risk of bias in SCED studies as such rigor is difficult to establish or often not practical in clinical settings. Suggestions and recommendations are outlined for improving the quality of published cases using SCED methodology, which, in turn, will improve credibility of evidence and better inform the development of treatment guidelines for behavior regulation.
Lower Extremity Somatosensory Function Throughout Concussion Recovery: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lempke Landon B. , Hoch Matthew C. , Call Jarrod A. , Schmidt Julianne D. , Lynall Robert C.
Published: June 2022

Objective:

Balance impairments may suggest somatosensory disruption beyond concussion clinical recovery, but somatosensory subsystems have never been directly assessed. Our objective was to examine somatosensory function between individuals with a concussion and healthy matched-controls at acute (<7 days) and asymptomatic (<72 hours of being symptom-free) time points.

Setting:

Laboratory.

Participants:

Participants with a concussion and matched controls (n = 24; 58% male, age: 19.3 ± 1.1 years, mass: 70.3 ± 16.4 kg, height: 177.3 ± 12.7 cm).

Design:

Prospective cohort.

Main Measures:

Somatosensory assessments on the dominant limb at both time points included: (1) plantar touch sensation threshold via Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, (2) plantar pressure pain threshold via algometry, and (3) knee absolute passive joint repositioning (PJR) error via Biodex across 3 arcs (105°-75°, 30°-60°, 90°-45° knee-flexion). We used mixed-model analyses of variance, post hoc Tukey honestly significant difference t tests with mean difference, 95% CI, and Hedges' g effect sizes to examine outcomes.

Results:

Touch sensation had a group effect with the concussion cohort needing 0.95 grams of force (gf) more relative to controls (95% CI: 0.03 to 1.87; P = .043). No touch sensation interaction was present, but medium and large effects were observed for greater gf needed among the concussed cohort at the acute (1.11 gf; 95% CI: 0.17 to 2.05; g = 0.96) and asymptomatic time points (0.79 gf; 95% CI: −0.15 to 1.73; g = 0.73). No plantar pressure pain threshold effects were observed (P ≥ .311), with negligible pressure difference magnitudes at the acute (0.26 pound force [lbf]/cm2; 95% CI: −1.54 to 2.06; g = 0.13) and medium magnitudes at the asymptomatic time points (0.99 lbf/cm2; 95% CI: −0.81 to 2.80; g = 0.42) for the concussed cohort needing more pressure to detect pain. The 30° to 60° PJR had a time effect, with asymptomatic time point having 3.12° better accuracy (95% CI: 1.23° to 5.02; P = .002). The concussed cohort had small-to-medium magnitude differences relative to controls at the acute time point for PJR during 105° to 75° (0.89°; g = 0.30) and 90° to 45° (0.62°; g = 0.17), but not 30° to 60° (−1.75°; g = −0.40).

Conclusions:

Individuals with a concussion exhibited large effects for diminished plantar touch sensation and small to medium effects for inhibited plantar pressure pain sensation compared with controls, which may indicate altered somatosensory function. Negligible PJR differences suggest knee joint position sense is not altered post-concussion. Pre- and postconcussion examination is warranted to understand causal somatosensory mechanisms.
Examining the Usability of Workload Monitoring in Firefighter Recruits
Authors: Giuliani-Dewig Hayden K. , Gerstner Gena R. , Mota Jacob A. , Ryan Eric D.
Published: June 2022

Objective

Although workload monitoring is commonly used in athletic settings to mitigate injury risk, we are unaware of previous studies examining its feasibility among firefighters.

Methods

Nineteen firefighter recruits completed a short online workload survey at the end of each training day (Monday–Friday) for 26 weeks during the academy. A modified System Usability Scale was provided at midtesting (3 months into the academy) and posttesting (end of the academy).

Results

The recruits perceived the survey to be user-friendly throughout the academy (83.6 ± 13.6). However, questions 1 (survey frequency) and 6 (survey consistency) decreased and increased from midtesting to posttesting, respectively. Adherence was overall poor, decreasing from midtesting to posttesting.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that workload monitoring is a user-friendly tool within tactical populations; however, future research should consider optimal survey frequency to enhance compliance.
Validation of the watch-type HUAWEI WATCH D oscillometric wrist blood pressure monitor in adult Chinese
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhou Yi-Ni , Zhou Yi , Wang Ji-Guang
Published: June 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the watch-type automated oscillometric wrist blood pressure (BP) monitor HUAWEI WATCH D in the general population according to the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation/European Society of Hypertension/International Organization for Standardization (AAMI/ESH/ISO) Universal Standard.

Method

Subjects were recruited to fulfill the age, sex, BP and cuff distributions of the AAMI/ESH/ISO Universal Standard in the general population using the same arm sequential BP measurement method. Two cuffs of the test device were used for wrist circumference of 13–16 cm (medium) and 16–20 cm (large), respectively.

Results

One-hundred and nine subjects were recruited and 85 were analyzed. For validation criterion 1, the mean ± SD of the differences between the test device and reference BP readings was −1.4 ± 6.47/−0.2 ± 5.85 mmHg (systolic/diastolic). For criterion 2, the SD of the average BP differences between the test device and reference BP per subject was 5.66/5.48 mmHg (systolic/diastolic).

Conclusion

The HUAWEI WATCH D watch-type wrist BP monitor fulfilled all the requirements of the AAMI/ESH/ISO Universal Standard in the general population and can be recommended for self-measurement.
Pharmacological Management of Obesity: A Century of Expert Opinions in Cecil Textbook of Medicine
Authors: Manu Peter , Lăcătuşu Cristina-Mihaela , Rogozea Liliana M. , Cernea Simona
Published: June 2022

Background:

Innovations in drug therapy for obesity have had a limited impact on the body mass index, prevalence of medical complications, quality of life, and work potential of a substantial majority of affected persons.

Study Question:

What are the milestones of the changes in the expert approach to the pharmacological management of obesity in the past century?

Study Design:

To determine the changes in the experts' approach to the management of obesity, as presented in a widely used textbook in the United States.

Data Sources:

The primary sources were chapters describing the management of obesity in the 26 editions of Cecil Textbook of Medicine published from 1927 through 2020. Secondary sources were publications retrieved from Medline that clarified technical issues related to the development, regulatory approval, and use of the drugs mentioned in the Cecil Textbook of Medicine
.

Results:

Pharmacological interventions aimed at increasing caloric expenditures through thermogenesis were recommended from 1927 through 1943. Thyroid extracts were prescribed even in the absence of demonstrated hypothyroidism or decreased basal metabolic rate throughout this period. Dinitrophenol was mentioned in 1937, but was banned soon thereafter. Appetite suppression with amphetamine was considered useful from 1943 through 1988, after which the drug was replaced with other centrally acting molecules, such as fenfluramine in 1988, sibutramine in 2000, and rimonabant in 2008, which were in turn withdrawn because of major adverse effects. In the past decade, obesity has been treated with the appetite suppressants phentermine-topiramate, bupropion-naltrexone, lorcaserin, and liraglutide, and with orlistat, a drug promoting fat malabsorption. The change in weight produced by these drugs is generally modest and transient.

Conclusions:

The pharmacological management of obesity has remained frustratingly inefficient. The reasons for the relative lack of success may reside in the ever-growing access to dense, palatable, and relatively inexpensive food, coupled with the decrease in energy expenditure created by a sedentary lifestyle.
Long COVID-19 Liver Manifestation in Children
Authors: Cooper Shiri , Tobar Ana , Konen Osnat , Orenstein Naama , Kropach Gilad Nesia , Landau Yuval E. , Mozer-Glassberg Yael , Bar-Lev Michal Rozenfeld , Shaoul Ron , Shamir Raanan , Waisbourd-Zinman Orith
Published: June 2022

Objectives:

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the novel coronavirus responsible for coronavirus disease (COVID-19), has been a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Gastrointestinal and hepatic manifestations during acute disease have been reported extensively in the literature. Post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy has been increasingly reported in adults. In children, data are sparse. Our aim was to describe pediatric patients who recovered from COVID-19 and later presented with liver injury.

Methods:

This is a retrospective case series study of pediatric patients with post-COVID-19 liver manifestations. We collected data on demographics, medical history, clinical presentation, laboratory results, imaging, histology, treatment, and outcome.

Results:

We report 5 pediatric patients who recovered from COVID-19 and later presented with liver injury. Two types of clinical presentation were distinguishable. Two infants aged 3 and 5 months, previously healthy, presented with acute liver failure that rapidly progressed to liver transplantation. Their liver explant showed massive necrosis with cholangiolar proliferation and lymphocytic infiltrate. Three children, 2 aged 8 years and 1 aged 13 years, presented with hepatitis with cholestasis. Two children had a liver biopsy significant for lymphocytic portal and parenchyma inflammation, along with bile duct proliferations. All 3 were started on steroid treatment; liver enzymes improved, and they were weaned successfully from treatment. For all 5 patients, extensive etiology workup for infectious and metabolic etiologies was negative.

Conclusions:

We report 2 distinct patterns of potentially long COVID-19 liver manifestations in children with common clinical, radiological, and histopathological characteristics after a thorough workup excluded other known etiologies.
Association Between Cerebral Autoregulation and Long-Term Outcome in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Shen Yanxia , Zhou Yanxia , Xiong Juan , Xiao Kun , Zhang Pandeng , Liu Jia , Ren Lijie
Published: June 2022

Background:

Dynamic cerebral autoregulation (CA) is known to be impaired in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), but whether or not dynamic CA can predict long-term outcomes is unclear.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective study included 103 patients with AIS between September 2017 and April 2019. We measured the middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity and blood pressure within 7 days of AIS onset using a transcranial Doppler and Finometer, respectively. We conducted transfer function analysis to calculate dynamic CA indices (phase and gain), with lower phase and higher gain parameters reflecting less efficient CA. We followed up all patients after 3 and 12 months. Patients with 12-month modified Rankin Scale scores of <2 and ≥2 were defined as having favorable and unfavorable outcomes, respectively. We then analyzed the predictors of unfavorable outcomes after 3 and 12 months using logistic regression.

Results:

The ipsilesional phase parameter was significantly lower in patients with unfavorable outcomes than in those with favorable outcomes. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the ipsilesional phase parameter and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score were nonmodifiable predictors of short-term and long-term outcomes. Moreover, in receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under the curve of the ipsilesional phase parameter was 0.646 (95% confidence interval: 0.513-0.779, P=0.044). Notably, the optimal cut-off value was 20.33 degrees (sensitivity: 63%, specificity: 70%).

Conclusion:

Dynamic CA is an independent predictor of outcomes at 3 and 12 months in patients with AIS.
Comparison of Targeted and Routine Adolescent HIV Screening in a Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Gutman Colleen K. , Newton Naomi , Duda Elizabeth , Alevy Ryan , Palmer Katherine , Wetzel Martha , Figueroa Janet , Griffiths Mark , Koyama Atsuko , Middlebrooks Lauren , Camacho-Gonzalez Andres , Morris Claudia R.
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The aims of the study were (1) to compare targeted and routine HIV screening in a pediatric emergency department (PED) and (2) to compare provider documented HIV risk assessment with adolescent perception of HIV risk assessment conducted during the PED visit.

Methods

This prospective study ran concurrent to a PED routine HIV screening pilot. Adolescents could be tested for HIV by the PED provider per usual care (targeted testing); if not tested, they were approached for the routine screening pilot. A subset of adolescents completed a questionnaire on HIV risk. χ2 analysis compared adolescents with targeted testing and routine screening. HIV-tested patients were asked if HIV risk was assessed; κ analysis compared this with documentation in the provider note.

Results

Over 4 months, 107 adolescents received targeted testing and 344 received routine screening. One 14-year-old patient tested positive by routine screening; this adolescent had 2 PED visits without targeted testing within 60 days. Compared with routine screening, adolescents with targeted testing were more likely female (82% vs 57%, P < 0.001), 16 years or older (71% vs 44%, P < 0.001), or had genitourinary/gynecologic concerns (48% vs 6%, P < 0.001). Adolescents with HIV risk factors were missed by targeted testing but received routine screening. Adolescents with documented HIV risk assessment were more likely to receive targeted testing. There was moderate agreement (κ = 0.61) between provider documentation and adolescent perception of HIV risk assessment.

Conclusions

There are gaps in PED HIV risk assessment and testing, which may miss opportunities to diagnose adolescent HIV. Routine HIV screening addresses these gaps and expands adolescent HIV testing in the PED.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Perceived Physical and Mental Health and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors of People with Disabilities: Quantitative Analysis of the International Community Survey
Authors: Tuakli-Wosornu Yetsa A , Wang Kangxin , Fourtassi Maryam , Stratton Catherine , Muñoz-Velasco Laura Paulina , Hajjioui Abderrazak , Cooper Rory , Balikuddembe Joseph K , Peterson Mark , Pandiyan Uma , Krassioukov Andrei , Tripathi Deo Rishi , Palomba Angela , Hong Bo-Young
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study aims to determine the perceived impact of the coronavirus pandemic on physical and mental health and healthy lifestyle behaviors in community-dwelling persons with disabilities, as compared to those without disabilities.

Design

A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted with a web-based global survey.

Results

Over three months, 3550 responses were collected from 65 countries. The study included 2689 responses without skipped questions as full data for analysis. Most respondents were women (82.82%), about half (52.81%) were between the ages of 25 and 39, followed by those between the ages of 40 and 60 (38.6%). Among participants, 52% indicated physical activity levels decreased and 20% reported eating less fruit and vegetables than before. Further, 45% noted they slept less than before. Perceived physical and mental health and changes to eating habits during the pandemic showed a significant difference in people with and without disabilities. Furthermore, perceived effects on physical health had a significant effect on the reported degree of disability.

Conclusions

This study indicates that the pandemic had a larger impact on perceived physical and mental health and changes in eating habits and tobacco use among people with disabilities than people without disabilities.
The Effect of a Virtual Reality-mediated Gamified Rehabilitation Program on Upper Extremity Functions in Children with Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Menekseoglu Ahmet Kivanc , Capan Nalan , Arman Sina , Aydin Ayse Resa
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate the effects of a virtual reality-mediated gamified rehabilitation program on upper extremity functions, skills, range of motion, muscle tone, and quality of life in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Design

This prospective, randomized and controlled study included 36 children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Children were randomized into two groups, the virtual reality group (n = 18) and the control group (n = 18). Stretching and range of motion exercises were performed on the affected upper extremity of the children in both groups. In addition to this exercise program, in the virtual reality group, virtual reality-mediated upper extremity rehabilitation was performed under supervision. The children were assessed at baseline and 1 and 3 months after the intervention.

Results

There was a significant increase in Assisting Hand Assessment, ABILHAND-Kids, Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test, and KINDL values in the virtual reality group. Additionally, there were significant increases in the active joint range of motion of the finger flexion, wrist flexion, pronation, and supination in the virtual reality group.

Conclusion

In this study, it was determined that upper extremity function, quality of life, and active joint range of motion of the children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy were increased with virtual reality-mediated upper extremity rehabilitation.
Analysis of the long-read sequencing data using computational tools confirms the presence of 5-methylcytosine in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome
Authors: Pai Shruta Sandesh , Ranjan Saumya , Mathew Aimee Rachel , Anindya Roy , Meur Gargi
Published: June 2022

Modification of DNA bases plays important roles in the epigenetic regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. Among the different types of DNA methylation, 5-methylcytosine (5mC) is common in higher eukaryotes. Although bisulfite sequencing is the established detection method for this modification, newer methods, such as Oxford nanopore sequencing, have been developed as quick and reliable alternatives. An earlier study using sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) indicated the presence of 5mC at very low concentration in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. More recently, a comprehensive study of the yeast genome found 40 5mC sites using the computational tool Nanopolish on nanopore sequencing output raw data. In the present study, we are trying to validate the prediction of the 5mC modifications in yeast with Nanopolish and two other nanopore software tools, Tombo and DeepSignal. Using publicly available genome sequencing data, we compared the open-access computational tools, including Tombo, Nanopolish and DeepSignal, for predicting 5mC. Our results suggest that these tools are indeed capable of predicting DNA 5mC modifications at a specific location from Oxford nanopore sequencing data. We also predicted that 5mC present in the S. cerevisiae genome might be located predominantly at the RDN locus of chromosome 12.
Nocardia rosealba sp. nov., a novel ligninase-producing Actinobacterium isolated from soil
Authors: Huang Zhenzhen , He Chuan , Wang Zishan , Luo Xianxian , Sun Xiujun , Zhao Junwei , Gao Xingyu , Xiang Wensheng , Song Jia , Wang Xiangjing
Published: June 2022

A novel ligninase-producing actinomycete, designated strain NEAU-G4T, was isolated from a soil sample and subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study to establish its status. According to 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons, the isolate was identified as a member of the genus

Nocardia

, with the highest sequence similarity to

Nocardia ignorata

DSM 44496T (99.2 %). The whole-cell sugars contained galactose and arabinose. The amino acid of the cell wall was determined to be meso-diaminopimelic acid. The major fatty acids (>10 %) were C16 : 0, C18 : 1
 ω9c, C18 : 0 and C16 : 1
 ω7c. The predominant menaquinone was identified as MK-8(H6, ω-cycl). The major polar lipids consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylinositol. Strain NEAU-G4T had a draft genome size of 6 405 167 bp, annotated with 5815 protein-coding genes. The DNA G+C content was 67.6 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis using the 16S rRNA gene and whole-genome sequences showed that strain NEAU-G4T formed a stable phyletic line with

N. ignorata

DSM 44496T. The digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values between them were 63.7 % (60.8–66.5 %) and 95.5 %, respectively. Moreover, genomic analysis indicated that strain NEAU-G4T had the potential to degrade lignin and produce bioactive compounds. On the basis of genotypic analysis, physiological data, as well as phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characterizations, it is concluded that the organism be classified as representing a novel species of the genus

Nocardia

, for which the name Nocardia rosealba sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is NEAU-G4T (=CCTCC AA 2020038T=DSM 111936T).
Optical Modulation of Blood-Brain-Tumor Barrier Permeability Enhances Drug Delivery in Diverse Preclinical Glioblastoma Models
Authors: Cai Qi , Li Xiaoqing , Xiong Hejian , Fan Hanwen , Gao Xiaofei , Vemireddy Vamsidhara , Margolis Ryan , Li Junjie , Ge Xiaoqian , Giannotta Monica , Dejana Elisabetta , Hoyt Kenneth , Bachoo Robert , Qin Zhenpeng
Published: June 2022

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent malignant tumor in the central nervous system. It has diverse phenotypes, including diffuse single-cell infiltration in which the tumor cells co-opt the normal microvasculature, and the neovascularization of an expanding tumor mass. The blood-brain-tumor barrier (BBTB) is a significant obstacle to GBM treatment and restricts entry of most FDA-approved effective oncology drugs. Herein, we report that picosecond laser excitation of vascular-targeted plasmonic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) can non-invasively and reversibly modulate the BBTB permeability (optoBBTB). OptoBBTB enhances the delivery of paclitaxel (Taxol) in two genetically engineered glioma models (GEMM) that span the spectrum of GBM phenotypes. OptoBBTB followed by Taxol delivery effectively suppresses tumor growth and prolongs the survival time of both GEMM. Moreover, our results raise the possibility that paclitaxel, which is amongst the most widely used oncology drugs because of its proven efficacy but has been abandoned for GBM following its failure to efficacy in early phase clinical trials due to poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration, could now be reconsidered in combination with strategies to increase BBB permeability. In summary, optoBBTB is a novel and effective approach to increase the delivery of therapeutics with limited BBB permeability to treat neoplastic and non-neoplastic brain diseases.
Defective synaptic plasticity in a model of Coffin-Lowry Syndrome is rescued by simultaneously targeting PKA and MAPK pathways
Authors: Liu Rong-Yu , Zhang Yili , Smolen Paul , Cleary Leonard J. , Byrne John H.
Published: June 2022

Empirical and computational methods were combined to examine whether individual or dual-drug treatments can restore the deficit in long-term synaptic facilitation (LTF) of the Aplysia sensorimotor synapse observed in a molecular model of Coffin-Lowry Syndrome (CLS). The model was produced by pharmacological inhibition of p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK) activity. Simultaneous treatment with an activator of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) isoform ERK and an activator of protein kinase A (PKA) resulted in enhanced phosphorylation of RSK and LTF to a greater extent than either drug alone and greater than their additive effects. Indeed, the combined drugs exerted synergistic effects on both RSK activation and LTF, fully restoring RSK phosphorylation and LTF. The extent of synergism appeared to depend on another MAPK isoform, p38 MAPK. Inhibition of p38 MAPK facilitated serotonin (5-HT)-induced RSK phosphorylation, indicating that p38 MAPK inhibits activation of RSK. Inhibition of p38 MAPK combined with activation of PKA synergistically activated RSK.
Genotypic and allelic distribution of the ACE, ACTN3, and IL6 genes in athletes of Artistic Gymnastics and Swimming in the department of Norte de Santander, Colombia
Authors: David González Gerardo , William Correa , Jairo Ruiz Casas
Published: June 2022

The purpose of the study is to report the allelic and genotypic frequencies of ACTN3, ACE and IL6 genes in Colombian high performance athletes in the sports of artistic gymnastics and swimming, to observe if there is any relationship between athlete status, sport and the polymorphisms found. The study included twenty-one gymnasts and twenty-one swimmers. The ACE and IL6 genes were genotyped by PCR and polyacrylamide electrophoresis, the ACTN3 gene was genotyped by PCR-RFLP. In the ACE gene, a greater number of genotypes with the D allele was observed in both sports, for the ACTN3 gene a predominance of the RX genotype was observed in both gymnastics and swimming, in the IL6 gene the most predominant characteristic is the total absence of the CC genotype. For the ACE gene, the highest allelic frequency is that of the D allele in both sports, the IL6 gene shows a high presence of the G allele, for the ACTN3 gene, in gymnastics the highest frequency of carriers is observed in the R allele and for the sport of swimming the majority is carrying the X allele. Significant differences were observed when comparing the genotypic and allelic frequencies between the population of gymnasts and swimmers only in the ACTN3 gene, the ACE gene and IL6 did not present significant differences between the populations. In conclusion, the genotypes presented by the athletes correspond to the types of efforts of their sport, gymnastics with predominance in strength and power and swimming with an orientation towards both phenotypes, showing a pleiotropic effect of the ACE and ACTN3 genes.