bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health-Related Quality of Life and Emotional Distress Among Mothers of Sons With Muscular Dystrophy as Compared to Sex- and Age Group–Matched Controls
Authors: Jackson Jamie L. , Korth Christina X. , Leslie Carine E. , Cotto Jennifer , Mah May Ling , Hor Kan , Cripe Linda , Al-Zaidy Samiah , Camino Eric M. , Church Kathleen , Lehman Kelly J. , Shay Victoria , Mendell Jerry R.
Published: October 2020

The health-related quality of life and emotional distress among mothers of sons with Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophies (n = 82) were compared to sex- and age group–matched controls (n = 26). Participants self-reported health-related quality of life for themselves and their son(s), emotional distress, and mood/anxiety-related medication. Mothers reported poorer health-related quality of life across all domains of their health-related quality of life, as well as higher levels of emotional distress. Clinically elevated symptoms of anxiety were reported by 39% of mothers. Mothers’ report of poorer health-related quality of life for their son(s) was a significant predictor of worse health-related quality of life and emotional distress for themselves across most domains. Additionally, older age of mothers predicted greater energy/less fatigue and lower levels of anxiety. Results highlight the need for screening emotional distress among mothers, as well as consideration for accessible interventions to improve the psychosocial functioning among these families.
Thinking Out-of-the-Box: A Non-Standard Application of Standard Pulse-Oximetry and Standard Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in a COVID-19 Patient
Authors: Schober Patrick , Lust Erik J. , Heunks Leo M. A. , Schwarte Lothar A.
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

Purpose of this report is to describe the feasibility of lingual pulse oximetry and lingual near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in a COVID-19 patient to assess lingual tissue viability after several days of mechanical ventilation in the prone position.

Materials & Methods:

In a COVID-19 ICU-patient, the tongue became grotesquely swollen, hardened and protruding from the oral cavity after 20 h of mechanical ventilation uninterrupted in the prone position. To assess the doubtful viability of the tongue, pulse-oximetric hemoglobin O2-saturation (SpO2; Nellcor, OxiMax MAX-NI, Covidien, MA, USA) and NIRS-based, regional tissue O2-saturation measurements (rSO2; SenSmart, Nonin, MN, USA) were performed at the tongue.

Results:

At the tongue, regular pulse-oximetric waveforms with a pulse-oximetric hemoglobin O2-saturation (SpO2) of 88% were recorded, i.e. only slightly lower than the SpO2 reading at the extremities at that time (90%). Lingual NIRS-based rSO2 measurements yielded stable tissue rSO2-values of 76-78%, i.e. values expected also in other adequately perfused and oxygenated (muscle-) tissues.

Conclusion:

Despite the alarming, clinical finding of a grotesquely swollen, rubber-hard tongue and clinical concerns on the adequacy of the tongue perfusion and oxygenation, our measurements of both arterial pulsatility (SpO2) and NIRS-based tissue oxygenation (rSO2) suggested adequate perfusion and oxygenation of the tongue, rendering non-vitality of the tongue, e.g. by lingual venous thrombosis, unlikely. To our knowledge, this is the first clinical report of lingual rSO2 measurement.
Associations Among Maternal Adiposity, Insulin, and Adipokines in Circulation and Human Milk
Authors: Schneider-Worthington Camille R. , Bahorski Jessica S. , Fields David A. , Gower Barbara A. , Fernández José R. , Chandler-Laney Paula C.
Published: October 2020

Background

Insulin, leptin, and adiponectin regulate energy balance and may influence infant growth via their presence in human milk. Maternal body mass index has been associated with human milk insulin, leptin, and adiponectin concentrations, but results are inconsistent. Maternal serum hormone concentrations and fat mass may better characterize human phenotype and be more appropriate predictors of human milk insulin, leptin, and adiponectin.

Research aim

To examine the associations of human milk insulin, leptin, and adiponectin with their concentrations in maternal circulation and with maternal fat mass.

Methods

Insulin, leptin, and adiponectin were measured in serum and human milk at 1 month postpartum in 25 women. Total body fat mass and fat-free mass were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Linear regression modeling was used to examine associations of serum hormone concentrations or fat mass with human milk insulin, leptin, and adiponectin after adjusting for covariates.

Results

Serum insulin ( p = .007), leptin ( p < .001), and adiponectin ( p < .001) were each associated with their respective concentrations in human milk. Fat mass was positively associated with insulin ( p = .005) and leptin ( p < .001), but not with adiponectin ( p = .65), in human milk.

Conclusions

Human milk insulin, leptin, and adiponectin were positively associated with their concentrations in serum, and human milk insulin and leptin were associated with maternal fat mass. Future research is needed to elucidate the role of human milk hormones in infant energy balance and growth.
‘Rightificating’ Coercion – A Critical Perspective on the Transformation of State-Driven Coercive Care
Authors: Rennerskog Jonna
Published: October 2020

During the last decade there has been a growing trend to give the child’s rights perspective a prominent role within the Swedish legal system. Simultaneously, one of the most central notions of the Swedish welfare state is the idea of the state having a certain responsibility to protect children. This article explores the tensions and contradictions between the child’s rights perspective and the collectivistic discourse on state protection in the transformation of state-driven coercive care in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Based on a textual analysis on policy documents, it illustrates a complex process, which both endorses and resists the transformation process. Findings show how emphasis on the child’s right to protection is used, not to strengthen the role of the child towards the state, but to legitimise a strengthened position of the state towards the child, decorated in the terminology of a child’s rights perspective. Further, it suggests that an individualisation of problem formulation opens up space for an extended coercion and that children’s access to individual rights is conditional and dependent on an active and capable individual.
Cognitive neurorobotics and self in the shared world, a focused review of ongoing research
Authors: Tani Jun , White Jeffrey
Published: October 2020

Through brain-inspired modeling studies, cognitive neurorobotics aims to resolve dynamics essential to different emergent phenomena at the level of embodied agency in an object environment shared with human beings. This article is a review of ongoing research focusing on model dynamics associated with human self-consciousness. It introduces the free energy principle and active inference in terms of Bayesian theory and predictive coding, and then discusses how directed inquiry employing analogous models may bring us closer to representing the sense of self in cognitive neurorobots. The first section quickly locates cognitive neurorobotics in the broad field of computational cognitive modeling. The second section introduces principles according to which cognition may be formalized, and reviews cognitive neurorobotics experiments employing such formalizations. The third section interprets the results of these and other experiments in the context of different senses of self, both “minimal” and “narrative” self. The fourth section considers model validity and discusses what we may expect ongoing cognitive neurorobotics studies to contribute to scientific explanation of cognitive phenomena including the senses of minimal and narrative self.
The Value of d-Dimer Level in Predicting Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Patients With Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction After PCI
Authors: Luo Erfei , Wang Dong , Liu Bo , Hou Jiantong , Yan Gaoliang , Tang Chengchun
Published: October 2020

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a serious complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Early identification of high-risk patients has an essential role in preventing CI-AKI. This study was designed to evaluate the predictive value of d-dimer, a marker of thrombosis and hypercoagulable state, for CI-AKI and prognosis in patients with STEMI. We included 400 patients with STEMI who underwent PCI. The patients were subdivided into 4 groups according to d-dimer level using the 4-quantile method. Contrast-induced acute kidney injury occurred in 66 (16.5%) patients. The incidence of CI-AKI in the highest quartile of the d-dimer groups (29.0%) was higher than that in the other 3 groups. Multivariable logistic regression showed that a low d-dimer level was significantly associated with a decreased risk of CI-AKI independent of confounding factors, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.487 (95% CI: 0.178-0.931, P = 0.041) for those in the first quartile compared with those in the highest quartile. Age (OR: 1.047, 95% CI: 1.003-1.092), diabetes mellitus (OR: 5.896, 95% CI: 2.496-13.927), anemia (OR: 3.488, 95% CI: 1.308-9.306), and total bilirubin (OR: 0.946, 95% CI: 0.904-0.992) were independent predictors of CI-AKI. The incidence of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events and all-cause mortality within 30 days, 6 months, and 1 year after PCI in the highest quartile of the d-dimer groups were higher than those in the other 3 groups. In conclusion, increasing d-dimer levels were independently associated with the incidence of CI-AKI and adverse outcomes in patients with STEMI after PCI.
Exploring the Continuance Usage Intention of Travel Applications in the Case of Chinese Tourists
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Qi , Edu Tudor , Negricea Iliuta Costel
Published: October 2020

Considering an information system—Confucian user behavior perspective and employing an integrated expectation confirmation model (ECM) and information system success (ISS) model, this study introduces three latent variables: perceived trust, perceived enjoyment and perceived risk, and constructs a travel APP research model on continuance usage intention. By collecting data through questionnaires from Chinese travel APP tourists, the study uses Smart Partial Least Squares to construct the structural equation model. The results show significant positive/negative relationships between information quality(INQ), system quality(SYQ), service quality(SEQ)—expectation confirmation (EC); expectation confirmation (EC)—perceived usefulness (PU), perceived trust(PT), perceived enjoyment (PE)—satisfaction (SAT); perceived usefulness (PU), perceived trust(PT), perceived enjoyment (PE), perceived risk (PR)—satisfaction(SAT); perceived usefulness(PU), satisfaction(SAT)—continuance usage intention. This study expands the travel APP literature by developing and testing the integrated ECM–ISS model, and makes strategical suggestions to travel e-commerce enterprises considering Confucian values. The model can be improved by including Confucian values, expanding the surveyed population and assessing perceptual relationships and the continuance usage intention-actual behavior nexus.
Hyperhomocysteinemia: Clinical Insights
Authors: Al Mutairi Fuad
Published: October 2020

Homocysteine (Hcy) is a sulfhydryl-containing amino acid, and intermediate metabolite formed in metabolising methionine (Met) to cysteine (Cys); defective Met metabolism can increase Hcy. The effect of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) on human health, is well described and associated with multiple clinical conditions. HHcy is considered to be an independent risk factor for common cardiovascular and central nervous disorders, where its role in folate metabolism and choline catabolism is fundamental in many metabolic pathways. HHcy induces inflammatory responses via increasing the pro-inflammatory cytokines and downregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines which lead to Hcy-induced cell apoptosis. Conflicting evidence indicates that the development of the homocysteine-associated cerebrovascular disease may be prevented by the maintenance of normal Hcy levels. In this review, we discuss common conditions associated with HHcy and biochemical diagnostic workup that may help in reaching diagnosis at early stages. Furthermore, future systematic studies need to prove the exact pathophysiological mechanism of HHcy at the cellular level and the effect of Hcy lowering agents on disease courses.
Municipal strategies and meeting minutes’ descriptions of the promotion of children’s mental health: a document analysis
Authors: Savolainen Outi , Turunen Hannele , Sormunen Marjorita
Published: October 2020

Aims:

Little is known about how municipal strategies, programmes and plans pay attention to the promotion of children’s mental health and whether it is discussed and reported in the municipal councils, boards and committees. The purpose of this study was to examine how municipalities in one Finnish region promote mental health, with a focus on the promotion of children’s mental health.

Methods:

Document analysis was used as a research method. Documents were selected for a one-year period (2018) from three municipalities of the North Savo region. Analysed documents ( n=269) were municipal strategies, programmes and plans, as well as meeting minutes of municipal councils, boards and committees. Eight domains of the structural indicators of mental health were used as an analysis frame.

Results:

In total, 1169 mentions related to the structural indicators of mental health were found in the documents. In strategies, programmes and plans, parenting-related mentions were found most often. Regarding the minutes, the issues discussed and reported about the wellbeing of children focused on practical issues, such as the construction of day care buildings.

Conclusions:

Document analysis indicated that mental health promotion involved mostly the society and environment and not as much the age and setting. There was a lack of mentions regarding preschool experiences and family support/childcare and the promotion of mental health through schools and education, especially in the meeting minutes of municipal councils, boards and committees.
Domestic violence policies in the Netherlands: A regime of deficiency
Authors: Mellaard Arne , Meijl Toon van
Published: October 2020

In a number of countries, domestic violence is represented as a governable phenomenon that is amenable to policy interventions. Over the past 40 years in the Netherlands, however, this approach has not resulted in a reduction of domestic violence. Yet new policy strategies continue to be designed to improve existing interventions. In this article, we focus on a Dutch policy measure that aims to detect early signals of violence and abuse. We argue that this strategy, by approaching domestic violence as a technical problem, fails to take into account structural and symbolic violence. As a consequence, the impact of domestic violence policies on women, particularly poor women, and especially women with a migration background, is to intensify their difficulties. Moreover, these policies deploy a technology that shapes the subjectivity of professionals engaged in protection practices, while maintaining the status quo of inequality and violence against women. The connection between these two flaws of domestic violence policies leads us to claim that the current approach is constituted as a regime of deficiency.
Assessment of simultaneous and nested conservative augmented Lagrangian schemes for constrained multibody dynamics
Authors: Hernández-Vielma César , Ortega-Aguilera Roberto , Cruchaga Marcela
Published: October 2020

Two alternative schemes used for the solution of multibody systems are reported and compared between them to evaluate their performance. Within the context of kinematic constraints imposed via augmented Lagrangian technique, one scheme proposes a simultaneous iterative solution for the computation of the Lagrangian multipliers and the nonlinear Newton-Raphson iterations. The second scheme uses a more classical Uzawa approach to compute the Lagrangian multipliers, and the nonlinear iterations are nested into the multiplier update loop. The performance of the methodology is tested by solving numerical experiments: simple, double, triple, and 10 bars pendulums with revolute joints. Moreover, 2D and 3D analyses are performed. The computed results using both the simultaneous iterative, and the nested iterative techniques, are reported to evaluate: kinematic responses, energy conservation, constraints verification, and iterations reduction.
Measurement of defects in a plate using dry-coupled interdigital transducer–based scanning laser Doppler vibrometer
Authors: Kang To , Han Seong-Jin , Moon Seongin , Han Soonwoo , Jeon Jun Young , Park Gyuhae
Published: October 2020

The interdigital transducer–based scanning laser Doppler vibrometer has recently been introduced to efficiently generate the symmetric mode for damage detection of shallow defects in thick plates. To measure shallow defects in a carbon steel plate, the excitation frequency is optimized based on the analysis of wavenumber sensitivity and degree of separation between modes. Even though the interdigital transducer–based scanning laser Doppler vibrometer method using continuous excitation is a promising method for visualizing defects in plate-like structures, the interdigital transducer has to be coupled to media, such as oil or water, to minimize the variation in acoustic impedance between the lead zirconium titanate and the plate-like structures. In this study, we develop a dry-coupled interdigital transducer–based scanning laser Doppler vibrometer system for the detection of shallow defects in a plate to facilitate easy mounting and demounting from the plate. To verify the proposed dry-coupled interdigital transducer–based scanning laser Doppler vibrometer, plates with four and eight different depth defects are introduced, and it is demonstrated that the defects in thick plates measured by dry-coupled interdigital transducer–based scanning laser Doppler vibrometer are visualized compared to those measured by interdigital transducer–based scanning laser Doppler vibrometer.
Written Language Usage With Pen and Technology in Adults Across Generations
Authors: Ball Angel L. , Postman Whitney A.
Published: October 2020

Writing formats have expanded beyond the pen to include new technologies, particularly in this era of immediate digital communication. Rehabilitation professionals are not routinely incorporating writing formats using technology, such as texting, keyboard, or tablet interfaces when evaluating and treating adult writing disorders. The purpose of this study was to obtain normative baseline information about the writing behaviors of typical adults across generations. A total of 199 respondents, ages 18–106, provided data on rating importance of format, frequency of use, and ranking of writing activities. Findings indicated that the importance of technology for communication, learning, and work activities exists across the generations (except the centenarian). Written forms of enjoyment, such as crossword puzzles, song lyrics, and story writing, were meaningful to younger as well as older generations. Obtaining client perspectives on writing activities and formats that are personally relevant and meaningful can help the clinician create a more client-based program.
Developing Adolescent Boys Toward Adaptation of Male Sexual and Reproductive Health in Communities With Embedded Cultural Manhood Values
Authors: Khuzwayo Patience Primrose , Douglas Mbuyiselo , Mchunu Gugu Gladness
Published: October 2020

Manhood values are highly prioritized among most culturally orientated South African Black communities with an ideology that revolves around the concept of masculinity. The notion of manhood values is deeply rooted in male dominance, sexual drive, and traditional male circumcision. The goals of this study were to (a) explore the experiences of school health nurses in the provision of sexual and reproductive health among adolescent boys; and (b) recommend suggested action to develop adolescent boys to adapt a healthy behavioral lifestyle through a health-promoting school program. This study employed a qualitative approach utilizing a descriptive and exploratory research design. The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion was used to guide the study. Purposive sampling was used to select participants for individual interviews to collect data. A total of 21 school health nurses were selected to participate in face-to-face interviews. A thematic analysis was conducted using ATLAS ti (version 8) software. Five overarching themes were yielded and categorized as facilitators, barriers, and suggested action to improve sexual and reproductive health services as follows: (a) legislative frameworks and policies; (b) male medical circumcision, and prevention of HIV/AIDS and STIs; (c) lack of support from teachers and school-governing bodies; (d) risky sexual behaviors among the learners; and (e) empowerment and personal skills development. The study concludes with a discussion and recommendations that a comprehensive health-promoting school program should be developed for adolescent boys with guaranteed ownership and sustainability of male sexual and reproductive health.
The Messiness of Children’s Voices: An Affect Theory Perspective
Authors: Ingulfsvann Laura Suominen , Moe Vegard Fusche , Engelsrud Gunn
Published: October 2020

The aim of the article is to explore children’s experiences and expressions of movement and physical education (PE). In particular, how children’s movement take form and vary in a school context. The study design is qualitative and the participants are children in fifth degree (10-years- olds). The data material consists of drawings, written texts, interviews and observations conducted over a school year. Theoretically, the article employs an affect theory perspective, a perspective where children’s voices are understood as contextual, “messy” and unpredictable. The analytical strategy was to select and use examples from two of the children in the material; Anna and Jon. The findings indicate that individual and collective aspects of children’s expressions and experiences, in this context, are intertwined and children’s expressions and experiences create patterns as well as variations and ambivalences over time. The article contributes insight into how children affect each other and become affected in multiple and varying ways in different situations and how their voices emerge and vary in interactions between themselves, other children, adults, such as teachers and researchers, and other elements in the environments and situations they encounter. The implication might be that PE teachers become aware of how emotions, imagination, norms and instructions, draw in children, and that children at the same time are always active and retain their uniqueness in encounters with others and otherness.
User engagement with smart wearables: Four defining factors and a process model
Authors: Oh Jeeyun , Kang Hyunjin
Published: October 2020

This study aims to construct an empirical model of user engagement with smart wearables, focusing on wrist-worn wearable devices. Using survey data of current smartwatch and smart fitness tracker users ( N = 457), four factors—physical interaction, interface assessment, cognitive absorption, and digital outreach—were examined as the main components of user engagement. Results showed that the four concepts reliably constituted the measurement model of user engagement. The proposed user engagement scale showed convergent validity with user attitudes toward wrist-worn wearables and usage intention. In addition, the four aspects of user engagement consisted of a process model, where physical interaction predicted interface assessment, interface assessment predicted cognitive absorption, and cognitive absorption predicted digital outreach.
Occurrence, associated risk factors, and treatment of surgical site infections in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Faiz Ullah , Fang Yu , Khan Zakir , Khan Farman Ullah , Malik Zafar Iqbal , Ahmed Naveed , Khan Amir Hayat , Rehman Asim.ur.
Published: October 2020

Globally, surgical site infections are one of the common infections which lead to a large amount of mortality and morbidity in postsurgical care. The risk for surgical site infection is multidimensional which includes mainly; patient, surgery, and hospital-related factors. This study is aimed to determine the burden of SSIs along with contributed risk factors. A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted in one of the largest public-sector hospitals in Pakistan. A total of 412 patients were recruited in the study with full consent and monitored for 30 days after surgery with direct and indirect surveillance. Overall, in seven different surgical procedures the incidence (29.8%) rate of SSI was observed; in appendectomy ( n = 17, 4.1%), exploratory laparotomy ( n = 51, 12.6%), laparoscopic cholecystectomy ( n = 12, 2.90%), mesh repair ( n = 17, 4.01%), thyroidectomy (5, 1.2%), transurethral resection of the prostate ( n = 11, 2.6%), and transurethral resection of the bladder (10, 2.4%). The average SSI rate in every single procedure was about 18 (4.27%) per surgical procedure out of 123 (29.85%) SSI cases. Types of SSI identified were superficial, deep incisional and organ/space ( n = 76, 18.4%, n = 23, 5.5%, and n = 24, 5.7%). Incidence of SSIs during admission, at readmission, and post-surveillance cases were ( n = 50, 12.1%, n = 25, 6.0% and n = 48, 11.6%). Associated risk factors found contributed to the incidence of SSI ( p < 0.05). Pre-operative ( n = 348, 84.5%) and 6 (1.5%) surgical patients did not received the post-operative antibiotics. The P. aeruginosa ( n = 15, 12.1%) and S. aureus (13, 10.5%). Cefoperazone and sulbactam were the most prescribed antibiotics. Associated risk factors and treatment outcomes of surgical patients have a direct association with the incidence of SSI. Hospital-based antimicrobial stewardship, implementation of surgical guidelines, patient care, and education are needed to develop at wards level in hospitals.
Is Microcredit a Reverse Innovation?
Authors: Ashta Arvind , Mor Surender
Published: October 2020

The concept of reverse innovation can be defined on a spectrum ranging from narrow to broad. We look at the broad concept, which indicates that an innovation travels successfully from a developing country to a developed country. A few authors have indicated that microcredit is a reverse innovation. However, credit by itself is not an innovation, nor is lending to the poor. The essential feature of modern-day microcredit in developing countries is that it acts as a social innovation, using group lending, being primarily directed towards women and creating financially stable institutions. We do not find evidence that any of these features have been adopted by a developed country’s microfinance institutions (MFIs) in a sustainable manner. We consider that only the use of the words ‘microfinance’ and 'microcredit' have been adopted by developed countries to further the corporate image, and researchers should be aware that ‘microfinance’ holds different connotations in different regions.
Characterization of the Leaf Microbiome from Whole-Genome Sequencing Data of the 3000 Rice Genomes Project
Authors: Roman-Reyna Veronica , Pinili Dale , Borja Frances N. , Quibod Ian L. , Groen Simon C. , Alexandrov Nickolai , Mauleon Ramil , Oliva Ricardo
Published: October 2020

Background

The crop microbial communities are shaped by interactions between the host, microbes and the environment, however, their relative contribution is beginning to be understood. Here, we explore these interactions in the leaf bacterial community across 3024 rice accessions.

Findings

By using unmapped DNA sequencing reads as microbial reads, we characterized the structure of the rice bacterial microbiome. We identified central bacteria taxa that emerge as microbial “hubs” and may have an influence on the network of host-microbe interactions. We found regions in the rice genome that might control the assembly of these microbial hubs. To our knowledge this is one of the first studies that uses raw data from plant genome sequencing projects to characterize the leaf bacterial communities.

Conclusion

We showed, that the structure of the rice leaf microbiome is modulated by multiple interactions among host, microbes, and environment. Our data provide insight into the factors influencing microbial assemblage in the rice leaf and also opens the door for future initiatives to modulate rice consortia for crop improvement efforts.
Decreased glycolysis induced dysfunction of NK cells in Henoch-Schonlein purpura patients
Authors: Chai Wenjia , Wang Xiaolin , Wang Wei , Wang Hui , Mou Wenjun , Gui Jingang
Published: October 2020

Background

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is the most common systemic vasculitis of the childhood. However, its mechanisms and pathogenesis still need more exploration. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes, and there is a growing appreciation that cellular metabolism is important in determining the immune responsiveness of lymphocytes. Thus, we aimed to analyze the NK cells phenotype and explore the association between glucose metabolism and NK cells function in HSP patients.

Results

A total number of 64 HSP patients and 34 healthy children were included. The HSP patients were divided into two groups according to whether accompanied with nephritis or not. NK cells in HSP patients without nephritis showed a reduced frequency in peripheral blood, a down-regulated expression of activating receptors both NKp30 and NKp46, and an attenuated cytotoxic function against tumor cells. In addition, the function impairment of NK cells was shown to exacerbate in HSPN. Our data further revealed an aberrant metabolic reprogramming of NK cells in HSP patients. Upon stimulation with cytokines (IL-15, IL-12 and IL-2), NK cells from healthy controls switched to an elevated glycolysis rate to support their effector function. By contrast, the glycolysis rate of activated NK cells in HSP group was not significantly up-regulated from the resting level possibly owing to the inhibition of mTORC1.

Conclusions

Our study found that HSP patients were accompanied with dysfunction of NK cells. We concluded that the dysfunction of NK cells in HSP patients was induced with a decreased glycolysis rate and suggested that metabolic reprogramming of NK cells might be a player in the pathogenesis of HSP.
Does conserved domain SOD1 mutation has any role in ALS severity and therapeutic outcome?
Authors: Pal Surinder , Tiwari Abha , Sharma Kaushal , Sharma Suresh Kumar
Published: October 2020

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative fatal disease that can affect the neurons of brain and spinal cord. ALS genetics has identified various genes to be associated with disease pathology. Oxidative stress induced bunina and lewy bodies formation can be regulated through the action of SOD1 protein. Hence, in the present study we aim to analyse the structural and functional annotation of various reported SOD1 variants throughout and their putative correlation with the location of mutation and degree of ALS severity by inferring the structural and functional alterations in different SOD1 variants.

Methods

We have retrieved around 69 SNPs of SOD1 gene from Genecards. Structural annotation of SOD1 variants were performed using SWISS Model, I-Mutant 2.0, Dynamut, ConSurf. Similarly, the functional annotation of same variants were done using SIFT, PHP-SNP, PolyPhen2, PROVEAN and RegulomeDB. Ramachandran plot was also obtained for six synonymous SNPs to compare the amino acid distribution of wild-type SOD1 (WT SOD1) protein. Frequency analysis, Chi square analysis, ANOVA and multiple regression analysis were performed to compare the structural and functional components among various groups.

Results and conclusion

Results showed the mutations in conserved domain of SOD1 protein are more deleterious and significantly distort the tertiary structure of protein by altering Gibb’s free energy and entropy. Moreover, significant changes in SIFT, PHP-SNP, PolyPhen2, PROVEAN and RegulomeDB scores were also observed in mutations located in conserved domain of SOD1 protein. Multiple regression results were also suggesting the significant alterations in free energy and entropy for conserved domain mutations which were concordant with structural changes of SOD1 protein. Results of the study are suggesting the biological importance of location of mutation(s) which may derive the different disease phenotypes and must be dealt accordingly to provide precise therapy for ALS patients.
Genome-wide identification and analysis of high-affinity nitrate transporter 2 (NRT2) family genes in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) and their responses to various stresses
Authors: Tong Jiafeng , Walk Thomas C. , Han Peipei , Chen Liyu , Shen Xinjie , Li Yinshui , Gu Chiming , Xie Lihua , Hu Xiaojia , Liao Xing , Qin Lu
Published: October 2020

Background

High-affinity nitrate transporter 2 (NRT2) genes have been implicated in nitrate absorption and remobilization under nitrogen (N) starvation stress in many plant species, yet little is known about this gene family respond to various stresses often occurs in the production of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.).

Results

This report details identification of 17 NRT2 gene family members in rapeseed, as well as, assessment of their expression profiles using RNA-seq analysis and qRT-PCR assays. In this study, all BnNRT2.1 members, BnNRT2.2a and BnNRT2.4a were specifically expressed in root tissues, while BnNRT2.7a and BnNRT2.7b were mainly expressed in aerial parts, including as the predominantly expressed NRT2 genes detected in seeds. This pattern of shoot NRT expression, along with homology to an Arabidopsis NRT expressed in seeds, strongly suggests that both BnNRT2.7 genes play roles in seed nitrate accumulation. Another rapeseed NRT, BnNRT2.5 s, exhibited intermediate expression, with transcripts detected in both shoot and root tissues. Functionality of BnNRT2s genes was further outlined by testing for adaptive responses in expression to exposure to a series of environmental stresses, including N, phosphorus (P) or potassium (K) deficiency, waterlogging and drought. In these tests, most NRT2 gene members were up-regulated by N starvation and restricted by the other stresses tested herein. In contrast to this overall trend, transcription of BnNRT2.1a was up-regulated under waterlogging and K deficiency stress, and BnNRT2.5 s was up-regulated in roots subjected to waterlogging. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of BnNRT2.7 s were enhanced under both waterlogging stress and P or K deficiency conditions. These results suggest that these three BnNRT2 genes might participate in crosstalk among different stress response pathways.

Conclusions

The results presented here outline a diverse set of NRT2 genes present in the rapeseed genome that collectively carry out specific functions throughout rapeseed development, while also responding not just to N deficiency, but also to several other stresses. Targeting of individual BnNRT2 members that coordinate rapeseed nitrate uptake and transport in response to cues from multiple stress response pathways could significantly expand the genetic resources available for improving rapeseed resistance to environmental stresses.
Risk factors associated with infection of blood-borne virus among people who used methamphetamine
Authors: Cai Yilin , Dai Zheng , Wen Sijin , Bhandari Ruchi
Published: October 2020

Background

The surge of methamphetamine use has been a complicating factor compounding the steeply increasing number of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. Infection from blood-borne viruses including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV, related to methamphetamine use continue to grow. This study aims to examine the risk factors associated with HBV, HCV and HIV among people who used methamphetamine.

Methods

People who ever used methamphetamine were identified from five National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cohorts, 2007 to 2016. The outcome was either positive or negative for blood-borne viruses as identified from laboratory tests. Weighted statistics for the combined ten years of data were calculated by multiplying the weighted variable for laboratory measurements by 0.2. We examined the association of sexual activities (sexual partners, sexual identity), drug use behaviors (poly-drug use, injection drug use, frequency of drug use, age started using methamphetamine), demographics, and socio-economic status with blood-borne viruses using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

There were 1132 participants representing approximately 11,996,319 persons who ever used methamphetamine in the U.S. Blood-borne viruses’ positive rate was 13.0 per 100,000. Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed significant associations of blood-borne infections with age 40–49 years (vs. age 20–29 years, adjusted odds ratio 4.77, 95% CI 1.11–20.55), age 50–59 years (vs. age 20–29 years, 10.25, 2.40–43.82), living within poverty index 1–1.9 (vs. poverty index > = 2, 2.55; 1.19–5.49), living below the poverty threshold (vs. poverty index > = 2, 2.55; 1.11–5.86), having lower than high school education (vs. equal or higher than high school education, 3.13; 1.51–6.46), sexual identity as other than heterosexual (vs. heterosexual, 5.60; 1.72–18.28), using methamphetamine and heroin and cocaine (vs. using methamphetamine alone, 4.24; 1.06–16.92), injection drug use (vs. no injection drug use, 3.15; 1.61–6.16), and started using methamphetamine at age above 25 (vs. started using methamphetamine at age between 10 and 17, 2.09; 1.01–4.35).

Conclusions

Among people who use methamphetamine, those who use polysubstance, or who inject substances, are in urgent need for vaccination and interventions to avoid further harm from blood borne infections.
The study protocol: Neuroendocrinology and (epi-) genetics of female reproductive transition phase mood disorder - an observational, longitudinal study from pregnancy to postpartum
Authors: Johann Alexandra , Ehlert Ulrike
Published: October 2020

Background

Postpartum depression is considered to be one of the most common health threats during pregnancy and postpartum, affecting not only the woman herself but also the offspring and the whole family system. Evidence for a conclusive etiopathological model with distinct risk and resilience factors is still broadly lacking. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate numerous health-related markers to obtain greater insight into which biopsychosocial profiles render women more vulnerable to PPD or facilitate a healthy transition from pregnancy to postpartum.

Methods

The observational, longitudinal study aims to include a total of 288 physically healthy women, aged 20–45 years. A multitude of relevant parameters, of an (epi-) genetic, endocrinological, physiological and psychological nature, will be assessed over a period of 5 months, following the participants from the 3rd trimester until three months postpartum.

Discussion

The ultimate goal of the present study is to ameliorate mental health care during pregnancy and postpartum, by gaining a better understanding of the underlying biopsychosocial mechanisms that women undergo during the transition from pregnancy to postpartum.
Clinical and imaging characteristics of primary hepatic sarcomatoid carcinoma and sarcoma: a comparative study
Authors: Shi Dongli , Sun Jun , Ma Liang , Chang Jing , Li Hongjun
Published: October 2020

Background

Primary hepatic sarcomatous carcinoma (PHSC) and primary hepatic sarcoma (PHS) are rare malignancies with frequent overlap in both the clinic and radiology. No comparative study of these tumors for the restricted cases has previously been undertaken. The purpose of our study was to analyze the clinical and imaging features of PHSCs and PHSs, with an emphasis on particularities and similarities through a comparison of the two tumors.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and imaging features of 39 patients with pathologically proven PHSCs (n = 23) and PHSs (n = 16) from four university centers over a 9-year period from 2010 to 2019. Univariate analyses were performed to determine the consistent and distinctive features.

Results

The background of chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis was observed with a high frequency in both of PHSCs (73.7%) and PHSs (62.5%). Tumors with a diameter greater than 10 cm were significantly more common in PHSs than PHSCs (p = 0.043) and cystic masses were more detected in PHSs (P = 0.041). Both PHSCs and PHSs mainly presented hypovascularity (78.3% vs 81.3%). The ring hyper enhancement on the arterial phase (AP) and wash out were more frequently seen in PHSCs and the iso-hypo enhancement on the AP followed persistent or progressive enhancement was more commonly detected in PHSs (all, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

PHSC and PHS generally present as mass lesions with hypovascularity. The ring hyper enhancement on the AP and wash out favor the diagnosis of PHSC. The large size greater than 10 cm, cystic lesion, iso-hypo persistent or progressive enhancement pattern might suggest the possibility of PHSs.
Primary outcomes of combined cataract extraction technique with Ab-Interno trabeculectomy and endoscopic Cyclophotocoagulation in patients with primary open angle Glaucoma
Authors: Izquierdo Juan Carlos , Mejías Josefina , Cañola-R Laura , Agudelo Natalia , Rubio Bárbara
Published: October 2020

Background

Glaucoma surgery have been developed to lower intraocular pressure in a less invasive manner than traditional glaucoma surgery. The purpose of this article is to determine the outcome of using combined phacoemulsification technique, ab-interno trabeculectomy dual blade and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) surgeries in patients with primary open angle glaucoma.

Methods

A retrospective case series was performed on 27 consecutive eyes with both primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and cataract; each eye was treated with combined phacoemulsification, ab-interno trabeculectomy-Kahook Dual Blade and Endocyclophotocoagulation at Instituto de ojos Oftalmosalud, Lima, Peru, between April 2017 and May 2017. Inclusion criteria: 1) Patients with uncontrolled mild to advanced POAG (according to Glaucoma Grading Scale HODAPP) 2) cataract condition 3) treatment with two or more glaucoma medications due to rapid progression in the visual fields (at least two in a short period of time). Intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) logMAR and number of glaucoma medications were recorded prior to the study, at day 1, week 1, and 1,3,6 and 9 months after surgery. Primary outcome measure was surgical success defined in terms of IOP < 14 mmHg either with no medications (complete success) or with medications (qualified success).

Results

A total of 27 eyes from 27 patients were included. The mean basal IOP was 17.0 ± 3.7 mmHg and postoperatively was 11.6 ± 1.9 mmHg and 11.4 ± 1.8 mmHg (P < 0.001) at 6 and 9 months respectively. Glaucoma medications decreased from 1.9 ± 1.4 to 0.56 ± 1.05 at 9 month follow-ups (P < 0.001). Preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) showed and improvement from 0.4 ± 0.4 LogMAR to 0.2 ± 0.4 logMAR at 9 months. The main complication was blood reflux intra-operatively (66.7%), which resolved without re-operation. The mean IOP was reduced by 32.9% from baseline and the surgical success was 92,6%, (complete success 70,3% and qualified success 29,6%) at 9 months.

Conclusions

In patients with POAG, combined treatment with phacoemulsification, ab-interno trabeculectomy and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation effectively reduced IOP and glaucoma medication dependence.
Access to institutional delivery services and its associated factors among mothers in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kayrite Qaro Qanche , Salgedo Waju Beyene , Weldemarium Tesfaye Dagne , Sinkie Shimeles Ololo , Handalo Dejene Melese , Obola Teshale Dojamo , Kebene Feyera Gebissa , Garedew Muluneh Getachew , Likka Melaku Haile
Published: October 2020

Background

Poor access to institutional delivery services has been known as a significant contributory factor to adverse maternal as well as newborn outcomes. Previous studies measured access in terms of utilization while it has different dimensions (geographic accessibility, availability, affordability, and acceptability) that requires to be measured separately. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the four dimensions of access and factors associated with each of these dimensions.

Methods

Community-based cross-sectional study design was used, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 605 mothers who had given birth in the last 6 months preceding the study. Multi-variable binary logistic regression was used to select factors associated with the four dimensions of access by using AOR with 95% CI. Ethical approval was secured from Jimma University Institutional Review Board.

Results

Five hundred and ninety-three mothers involved in this study, resulting in a response rate of 98%. Four hundred five (68%), 273(46%), 279(47%), and 273(46%) had geographic, perceived availability, affordability, and acceptability access to institutional delivery services, respectively. Antenatal care [AOR = 3.74(1.56, 8.98)], occupation of mother [AOR = 5.10(1.63, 15.88)], and residence [AOR = 1.93(1.13, 3.29)] were independently associated with geographic accessibility. Household graduation [AOR = 1.46(1.03, 2.06)], residence [AOR = 1.74(1.17, 2.59)], and ANC [AOR = 3.80(1.38, 10.50)] were independently associated with perceived availability. Moreover, wealth quintile [AOR = 11.60(6.02, 22.35)], ANC [AOR = 3.48(1.36, 9.61)], and occupation of husband [AOR = 3.63(1.51, 8.74)] were independently associated with affordability. Lastly, mother’s education [AOR = 2.69(1.42, 5.09)], residence [AOR = 2.60(1.66, 4.08)], and household graduation [AOR = 3.12(2.16, 4.50)] were independently associated with acceptability of institutional delivery services.

Conclusions

Moderate proportions of mothers have geographic accessibility to institutional delivery services, but access to the other three dimensions was low. ANC visits of 4 or above, occupation of husband, urban residence, graduation of mother’s household as a model family, higher wealth quintiles, and maternal educational level significantly affect access to institutional delivery services. Thus, it was recommended that concerned bodies should give due attention to ANC services, female education, training of model families, and enhancement of household wealth through job creation opportunities to increase access to institutional delivery services.