bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interobserver reliability of scapula fracture classifications in intra- and extra-articular injury patterns
Authors: Huflage Henner , Fieber Tabea , Färber Christian , Knarr Jonas , Veldhoen Simon , Jordan Martin C. , Gilbert Fabian , Bley Thorsten Alexander , Meffert Rainer H. , Grunz Jan-Peter , Schmalzl Jonas
Published: March 2022

Background

Morphology and glenoid involvement determine the necessity of surgical management in scapula fractures. While being present in only a small share of patients with shoulder trauma, numerous classification systems have been in use over the years for categorization of scapula fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the established AO/OTA classification in comparison to the classification system of Euler and Rüedi (ER) with regard to interobserver reliability and confidence in clinical practice.

Methods

Based on CT imaging, 149 patients with scapula fractures were retrospectively categorized by two trauma surgeons and two radiologists using the classification systems of ER and AO/OTA. To measure the interrater reliability, Fleiss kappa (κ) was calculated independently for both fracture classifications. Rater confidence was stated subjectively on a five-point scale and compared with Wilcoxon signed rank tests. Additionally, we computed the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) based on absolute agreement in a two-way random effects model to assess the diagnostic confidence agreement between observers.

Results

In scapula fractures involving the glenoid fossa, interrater reliability was substantial (κ = 0.722; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.676–0.769) for the AO/OTA classification in contrast to moderate agreement (κ = 0.579; 95% CI 0.525–0.634) for the ER classification system. Diagnostic confidence for intra-articular fracture patterns was superior using the AO/OTA classification compared to ER (p < 0.001) with higher confidence agreement (ICC: 0.882 versus 0.831). For extra-articular fractures, ER (κ = 0.817; 95% CI 0.771–0.863) provided better interrater reliability compared to AO/OTA (κ = 0.734; 95% CI 0.692–0.776) with higher diagnostic confidence (p < 0.001) and superior agreement between confidence ratings (ICC: 0.881 versus 0.912).

Conclusions

The AO/OTA classification is most suitable to categorize intra-articular scapula fractures with glenoid involvement, whereas the classification system of Euler and Rüedi appears to be superior in extra-articular injury patterns with fractures involving only the scapula body, spine, acromion and coracoid process.
Healthcare professionals’ perspective on delivering personalised and holistic care: using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Wong Eunice , Mavondo Felix , Horvat Lidia , McKinlay Louise , Fisher Jane
Published: March 2022

Background

Interventions to improve personalised and holistic care delivery by healthcare professionals are more likely to be effective if they target the factors influencing specific behaviours. This study reports on the development and testing of a questionnaire to identify perspectives of healthcare professionals’ personalised and holistic care behaviours based on the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Methods

The study was conducted in public health services in Victoria, Australia. The questionnaire was developed and pilot-tested with behaviour change researchers and healthcare professionals. Doctors, nurses and midwives were recruited via notices and email invitations from Safer Care Victoria's website and mailing lists of healthcare professionals and invited to completed the questionnaire online (hosted on Qualtrics). Health services administrators and allied health professionals were excluded from the study. Confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken to generate the model of best fit and group differences were tested using univariate tests.

Results

One hundred and four healthcare professionals from public health services in Victoria, Australia, completed the 39-item questionnaire focusing on specific personalised and holistic care behaviours. The final model consisted of 13 factors and 39 items, and CFA produced an acceptable fit, as well as adequate levels of discriminant validity and internal consistency (α = 0.60 to 0.84). Seven domains, “social influence”, “motivation & goals”, “environmental context and resources’, “skills”, ‘beliefs about consequences”, “behaviour regulation” and “nature of behaviour” were identified. Significant differences in the factors influencing these behaviours were found in groups with different years of experience and role seniority. These findings suggest that future interventions need to be targeted to specific groups.

Conclusion

This study identified the specific behaviours and the factors associated with performance of personalised and holistic care among healthcare professionals. The findings suggest several interventions and policy functions may be taken to improve personalised and holistic care.
DNA methylation reveals distinct cells of origin for pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Simon Tincy , Riemer Pamela , Jarosch Armin , Detjen Katharina , Di Domenico Annunziata , Bormann Felix , Menne Andrea , Khouja Slim , Monjé Nanna , Childs Liam H. , Lenze Dido , Leser Ulf , Rossner Florian , Morkel Markus , Blüthgen Nils , Pavel Marianne , Horst David , Capper David , Marinoni Ilaria , Perren Aurel , Mamlouk Soulafa , Sers Christine
Published: March 2022

Background

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs) fall into two subclasses: the well-differentiated, low- to high-grade pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs), and the poorly-differentiated, high-grade pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (PanNECs). While recent studies suggest an endocrine descent of PanNETs, the origin of PanNECs remains unknown.

Methods

We performed DNA methylation analysis for 57 PanNEN samples and found that distinct methylation profiles separated PanNENs into two major groups, clearly distinguishing high-grade PanNECs from other PanNETs including high-grade NETG3. DNA alterations and immunohistochemistry of cell-type markers PDX1, ARX, and SOX9 were utilized to further characterize PanNECs and their cell of origin in the pancreas.

Results

Phylo-epigenetic and cell-type signature features derived from alpha, beta, acinar, and ductal adult cells suggest an exocrine cell of origin for PanNECs, thus separating them in cell lineage from other PanNENs of endocrine origin.

Conclusions

Our study provides a robust and clinically applicable method to clearly distinguish PanNECs from G3 PanNETs, improving patient stratification.
Determinants of livestock species ownership at household level: Evidence from rural OR Tambo District Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Taruvinga A. , Kambanje A. , Mushunje A. , Mukarumbwa P.
Published: March 2022

An understanding of factors influencing smallholder farmers’ livestock ownership at the household level is vital in formulating pro-poor livestock production policies and technologies. Hence, this study examined factors that influence livestock ownership of smallholder farmers. The data was collected randomly from three purposively selected study areas in the OR Tambo District (King Sabata Dalindyebo, Port St Johns and Ingquza Hill local municipalities) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa using a cross-sectional survey of 650 households. A multivariate probit model (MPM) was used to estimate correlates of livestock species ownership at the household level. Results indicated that education, age, household income, marital status, religion, rainfall, gender, household size and employment status influence livestock species ownership at the household level. Therefore, efforts to promote livestock ownership and production should be guided by these significant explanatory variables in the study area. Interdependence among species was also noted (cattle and sheep; goats and pigs; sheep and pigs; cattle and goats; goats and sheep), suggesting complementarity among the different types of livestock species. This complementarity among the species can possibly be explained by functional diversity generic with multi-species livestock farming which is worth supporting to enhance biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, rural resource use efficiency and socio-economic sustainability at the household level.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Research on Construction Risks and Countermeasures of Concrete Dam
Authors: Song Hang , Wang Dai , Liu Wei-Jia
Published: March 2022

The harsh environment will reduce the interlayer bonding quality of mass concrete and cause plastic cracking. These defects will seriously affect the safety and durability of the structure. This study tested the layer state (water content and penetration resistance), interlayer mechanical properties, and early-age crack resistance of concrete to evaluate the impact of extreme weather on concrete interlayer properties and crack resistance. Furthermore, the interlayer splitting tensile strength of concrete under different treatment measures (covering insulation quilts and artificial grooves) was analyzed to find a method to reduce the construction risk of mass concrete. At the same time, the early-age crack resistance of concrete under different treatment measures (covering insulation quilts and adding PVA fibers) was evaluated. The results showed that the interlayer splitting tensile strength of concrete decreased by 50%, 40%, 29%, and 70%, respectively, compared with bulk concrete under extreme weather conditions (high temperature, strong winds, steep descent in temperature, and short-time heavy rainfall). Covering insulation quilts can reduce the construction risk of concrete under extreme weather conditions such as high temperature, strong winds and steep descent in temperature. This is mainly due to the fact that insulation quilt reduces the impact of the external environment on the concrete and effectively prevents the evaporation of moisture inside the concrete. In addition, covering insulation quilts can reduce the total cracking area of concrete under extreme weather conditions (strong winds and dry-heat, strong winds and cold waves, and short-time heavy rainfall) by 85–100%. At the same time, adding PVA fibers can inhibit the generation and expansion of micro-cracks on the concrete surface. This is due to the bridging and cracking resistance of PVA fibers.
Sleep disturbances in the context of neurohormonal dysregulation in patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Roloff Tom , Haussleiter Ida , Meister Klara , Juckel Georg
Published: March 2022

Background

Sleep dysfunction is a core symptom in bipolar disorder (BD), especially during major mood episodes. This study investigated the possible link between subjective and objective sleep disturbances in inter-episode BD, changes in melatonin and cortisol levels, and circadian melatonin alignment. The study included 21 euthymic BD patients and 24 healthy controls. Participants had to wear an actigraphy device, keep a weekly sleep diary and take salivary samples: five samples on the last evening to determine the dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) and one the following morning to measure rising cortisol. Sleep quality was assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Regensburg Insomnia Scale (RIS), and circadian alignment by the phase angle difference (PAD).

Results

In comparison to healthy controls, BD patients had: (1) higher PSQI (5.52 ± 3.14 vs. 3.63 ± 2.18; p = 0.022) (significant after controlling for age and gender), and higher RIS scores (8.91 ± 5.43 vs. 5.83 ± 3.76; p = 0.031); (2) subjective a longer mean TST (p = 0.024) and TIB (p = 0.002) (both significant after controlling for age and gender), longer WASO (p = 0.019), and worse SE (p = 0.036) (significant after controlling for gender); (3) actigraphically validated earlier sleep onset (p = 0.002), less variation in sleep onset time (p = 0.005) and no longer TST (p = 0.176); (4) no differing melatonin levels (4.06 ± 2.77 vs. 3.35 ± 2.23 p = 0.352), an 1.65 h earlier DLMO (20.17 ± 1.63 vs. 21.82 ± 1.50; p = 0. 001) (significant after controlling for gender), and a phase advance of melatonin (6.35 ± 1.40 vs. 7.48 ± 1.53; p = 0.017) (significant after controlling for gender); and (5) no differing cortisol awakening response (16.97 ± 10.22 vs 17.06 ± 5.37 p = 0.969).

Conclusions

Patients with BD, even in euthymic phase, have a significantly worse perception of their sleep. Advanced sleep phases in BD might be worth further investigation and could help to explain the therapeutic effects of mood stabilizers such as lithium and valproate.
Health supply chain system in Uganda: current issues, structure, performance, and implications for systems strengthening
Authors: Lugada Eric , Komakech Henry , Ochola Irene , Mwebaze Shiela , Olowo Oteba Martin , Okidi Ladwar Denis
Published: March 2022

Background

The health supply chain system is essential for the optimum performance of the healthcare system. Despite increased investments in the health supply chain system, access to quality Essential Medicines and Health Supplies remain a big challenge in Uganda. This article discusses the structure, performance, and challenges of the health supply chain system in Uganda. It provides reflections and implications for ongoing interventions for system strengthening.

Discussions

The findings highlight several issues and challenges affecting the health supply chain system from functioning optimally across all levels of the health system. The challenges identified include an ineffective structure to support planning, coordination and management, inadequate funding, shortage of skilled staff, weak regulatory and governance structures at national and sub-national levels, and slow adoption and use of Electronic Logistics Information Systems to support supply chain processes and functions. Overcoming these challenges will require greater investments to improve policy development and implementation, infrastructure, equipment and support systems, knowledge and skills of supply chain personnel, increased funding and improving governance and accountability.
A multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) tool for purchasing off-patent oncology medicines in Egypt
Authors: Elezbawy Baher , Fasseeh Ahmad Nader , Sedrak Amal , Eldessouki Randa , Gamal Mary , Eldebeiky Mariam , Amer Hanaa , Akeel Shimaa , Morsy Ahmad , Amin Amira , Shafik Amr , Abaza Sherif , Kaló Zoltán
Published: March 2022

Background

Multi- criteria decision analysis (MCDA) can assist policymakers in objectively choosing between alternative therapeutic options based on multiple value attributes. Our aim was to create an MCDA tool for the national tenders of off-patent oncology medicines in Egypt.

Methods

An initial list of criteria was developed through a literature review complemented by local expert interviews. Price or cost-related criteria were excluded to abide by the national regulations of the tender process. Next, a workshop hosting diversified stakeholders representing different governmental bodies was held. Anonymous voting was used to rank and weigh the criteria as well as assigning scores. Price was added as a separate step to identify best option based on price per point. The tool was then tested on a national tender sample of off-patent oncology medicines to assess its performance, and it was readjusted accordingly in a second workshop.

Results

Seven non-price criteria were selected, including use in reference countries (23.49% weight), equivalence with the reference product (18.79%), manufacturing quality (15.53%), provision of pharmacovigilance services (12.94%), supply reliability (10.78%), previous use in local settings (9.8%) and macroeconomic benefit (8.67%).

A medicine receives a score ranging from 0 to 100% of each criterion’s weight. The aggregated score is calculated on a hundred-point scale. Based on participants’ consensus, an overall score of 65 was set as a cut-off for passing the technical eligibility phase of the tendering process. Any product receiving a lower score would be disqualified from the tender. For qualified products, the lower price per point represents preferential option for the national tender.

Conclusions

The created MCDA tool is capable of objectively comparing similar off-patent oncology medicines by considering multiple value attributes and providing reliable scoring functions for each.
Patients’ dissatisfaction with multifocal intraocular lenses managed by exchange with other multifocal lenses of different optical profiles
Authors: Al-Shymali Olena , McAlinden Colm , Alio del Barrio Jorge L. , Canto-Cerdan Mario , Alio Jorge L.
Published: March 2022

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of dissatisfied patients reporting poor visual quality following implantation of multifocal intraocular lenses (MF-IOLs), managed by IOL exchange with another multifocal optical profile.

Methods

This is a retrospective series of cases. MF-IOL exchange was done in 15 dissatisfied patients (30 eyes) with the perception of poor visual quality for far distance affected by neuroadaptation failure. Patients underwent a bilateral exchange of a MF-IOL with another MF-IOL of a different optical profile. Visual outcomes and complications were analyzed. Questionnaires including Quality of Vision (QoV), Visual Function Index-14 (VF-14) and its Rasch-revised version (VF-8R) and a satisfaction questionnaire were also used for outcome evaluation.

Results

The mean elapsed time from implantation to explantation-reimplantation was 11.8 months. The QoV scores improved significantly across all the three subscales. Visual function improved with a change in VF-14 score from 60.41 ± 24.81 to 90.16 ± 10.91 (P < 0.001). The VF-8R score improved as well. The uncorrected distance visual acuity improved from 0.24 to 0.12 logMAR after exchange (P < 0.001) and corrected distance visual acuity improved from 0.15 to 0.04 logMAR (P < 0.001). Safety and efficacy indexes reached 1.46 and 1.16, respectively. Concerning patients’ satisfaction following MF-IOL exchange, 80% of the patients reported they would have the MF-IOL reimplantation procedure again.

Conclusions

Patient dissatisfaction with neuroadaptation failure following MF-IOL implantation can be managed in 80% of our cases by MF-IOL exchange with a different MF-IOL optical profile.
Factors associated with survival of Iranian patients with COVID-19: comparison of Cox regression and mixture cure model
Authors: Seif Mozhgan , Sharafi Mehdi , Ghaem Haleh , Kasraei Farzaneh
Published: March 2022

Backgrounds

SARS-CoV-2 is almost the most problematic virus of this century. It has caused extensive damage to various economic, social, and health aspects worldwide. Nowadays, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the most dangerous threat to human survival. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate factors associated with the survival of Iranian patients with SARS-CoV-2.

Methods

This retrospective hospital-based cohort study was conducted on 870 COVID-19 patients with blood oxygen levels of less than 93%. Cox regression and mixture cure model were used and compared to analyze the patients’ survival. It is worth noting that no similar study has been previously conducted using mixture cure regression to model the survival of Iranian patients with COVID-19.

Result

The cure rate and median survival time were respectively 81.5% and 20 days. Cox regression identified that respiratory distress, history of heart disease and hypertension, and older age were shown to increase the hazard. The Incidence and Latency parts of the mixture cure model respectively revealed that respiratory distress, history of hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cough, fever, and older age reduced the cure odds; also, respiratory distress, history of hypertension, and CVDs, and older age increased the hazard.

Conclusion

The findings of our study revealed that priority should be given to older patients with a history of diabetes, hypertension, and CVDs in receiving intensive care and immunization. Also, the lower cure odds for patients with respiratory distress, fever, and cough favor early hospitalization before the appearance of severe symptoms.
Factors associated with food consumption score among pregnant women in Eastern Ethiopia: a community-based study
Authors: Fite Meseret Belete , Tura Abera Kenay , Yadeta Tesfaye Assebe , Oljira Lemessa , Roba Kedir Teji
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Although assessing the nutritional status of pregnant women is becoming a common research agenda, evidence on food consumption scores, particularly among rural residents, is limited. This study aimed to assess the level of food consumption score and associated factors among pregnant women in Haramaya district, eastern Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 448 pregnant women in Haramaya district, eastern Ethiopia. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews by trained research assistants, using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Food consumption score, a proxy measure for food security, was assessed through a seven-day dietary recall of consumption of food items. Each food item was given a score of 0–7 depending on the number of days it was consumed then grouped into food groups and summed up each food group. The pregnant women were labeled as "acceptable food consumption score" when they had a food composite score of > 42 during the reference period. Otherwise, they were defined as "unacceptable." A Poisson regression model with robust variance estimation was used to investigate the association of the independent variables with the food consumption score. An adjusted prevalence ratio with a 95% confidence interval was reported to show an association using a p value < 0.05.

Results

The acceptable food consumption score among the study participants was 54.46% (95% CI 49–59%). The level of acceptable food consumption score was higher among respondents who were in the richest class (APR = 1.31; 95% CI 1.04–1.66), those who had ANC follow-up (APR = 1.78; 95% CI 1.40–2.27), those who had a favorable attitude toward dietary practice (APR = 1.30; 95% CI 1.12–1.52), and those who consumed high animal source foods (APR = 1.28; 95% CI 1.01–1.51). However, acceptable food consumption score was lower among women who were not owned agricultural land (APR = 0.84; 95% CI 0.72–0.99).

Conclusion

We found a low acceptable food consumption score among pregnant women in this predominantly rural setting. Nutritional counseling in pregnancy should address the importance of food diversity and consumption of animal source foods to improve nutrition in pregnancy. Our findings highlight the imperative requirement for policies and programs to support farmers who had no farmland to improve their overall food security and maximize their food consumption score. Assessing perinatal outcomes associated with food consumption score is essential for unraveling the spectrum of nutrition in pregnancy and beyond.
Dark-field chest x-ray imaging: first experience in patients with alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency
Authors: Zimmermann Gregor S. , Fingerle Alexander A. , Renger Bernhard , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Hautmann Hubert , Sauter Andreas , Meurer Felix , Gassert Florian Tilman , Bodden Jannis , Müller-Leisse Christina , Renz Martin , Rummeny Ernst J. , Makowski Marcus R. , Willer Konstantin , Noichl Wolfgang , De Marco Fabio , Frank Manuela , Urban Theresa , Schick Rafael C. , Herzen Julia , Koehler Thomas , Haller Bernhard , Pfeiffer Daniela , Pfeiffer Franz
Published: March 2022

Background

Spirometry and conventional chest x-ray have limitations in investigating early emphysema, while computed tomography, the reference imaging method in this context, is not part of routine patient care due to its higher radiation dose. In this work, we investigated a novel low-dose imaging modality, dark-field chest x-ray, for the evaluation of emphysema in patients with alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency.

Methods

By exploiting wave properties of x-rays for contrast formation, dark-field chest x-ray visualises the structural integrity of the alveoli, represented by a high signal over the lungs in the dark-field image. We investigated four patients with alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency with a novel dark-field x-ray prototype and simultaneous conventional chest x-ray. The extent of pulmonary function impairment was assessed by pulmonary function measurement and regional emphysema distribution was compared with CT in one patient.

Results

We show that dark-field chest x-ray visualises the extent of pulmonary emphysema displaying severity and regional differences. Areas with low dark-field signal correlate with emphysematous changes detected by computed tomography using a threshold of -950 Hounsfield units. The airway parameters obtained by whole-body plethysmography and single breath diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide demonstrated typical changes of advanced emphysema.

Conclusions

Dark-field chest x-ray directly visualised the severity and regional distribution of pulmonary emphysema compared to conventional chest x-ray in patients with alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency. Due to the ultra-low radiation dose in comparison to computed tomography, dark-field chest x-ray could be beneficial for long-term follow-up in these patients.
Dynamic profiles of DNA methylation and the interaction with histone acetylation during fiber cell initiation of Gossypium hirsutum
Authors: CHEN Guangyu , LI Yonghui , WEI Zhenzhen , GAN Lei , LIU Jisheng , WANG Zhi
Published: March 2022

Background

Fiber, as the main product of cotton, provides main raw material for the textile industry. Many key factors have been revealed a significant role in fiber cell development including Myb proteins, phytohormones, fatty acid metabolites, and epigenetic modifications. DNA methylation is one of the important epigenetic modifications to regulate plant development and responses to abiotic or biotic stimuli. In general, DNA methylation consisting of 5mC and 6mA regulates the chromatin structure and gene transcription to affect plant development, however, the detailed role and underlying mechanism of DNA methylation in the fiber development of cotton are yet vague.

Results

Here, systematical study of the 5mC and 6mA DNA methylation profiles during the fiber initiation period of Xu142 and its glabrous mutant Xu142fl represented a clear alteration of global DNA methylation associated with fiber cell initiation. Then, the genome-wide identification of genes responsible for methylation regulation at the fifth carbon of cytosine and the sixth carbon of adenine of DNA was operated in Gossypium hirsutum. As a result, 13, 10, 6, and 17 genes were identified for 5mC methylation, 5mC demethylation, 6mA methylation, and 6mA demethylation, respectively. We then investigated the tissue expression pattern of all these genes, and some genes showed higher expression levels in fiber initiation, among which some displayed a significant change in transcription between Xu142 and Xu142fl. The possible interaction between histone acetylation and DNA methylation in fiber initiation through in vitro culture was studied by dot blot, and the results showed that repressed histone deacetylation by Trichostatin A (TSA) inhibited the global DNA methylation, and some causal genes (e. g., GhDMT13, GhDAMT2, GhALKBH12, GhDM7) were also identified.

Conclusions

In this study, all the findings indicated the interplay between histone acetylation and DNA methylation, supporting their important roles and providing precious clues for the epigenetic modifications associated with DNA methylation in the fiber development of cotton.
Blockchain abnormal behavior awareness methods: a survey
Authors: Yan Chuyi , Zhang Chen , Lu Zhigang , Wang Zehui , Liu Yuling , Liu Baoxu
Published: March 2022

With the wide application and development of blockchain technology in various fields such as finance, government affairs and medical care, security incidents occur frequently on it, which brings great threats to users’ assets and information. Many researchers have worked on blockchain abnormal behavior awareness in respond to these threats. We summarize respectively the existing public blockchain and consortium blockchain abnormal behavior awareness methods and ideas in detail as the difference between the two types of blockchain. At the same time, we summarize and analyze the existing data sets related to mainstream blockchain security, and finally discuss possible future research directions. Therefore, this work can provide a reference for blockchain security awareness research.
The Pseudomonas syringae effector AvrPtoB targets abscisic acid signaling pathway to promote its virulence in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Yanzhi , Mahmud Md. Rubel , Xu Ning , Liu Jun
Published: March 2022

Phytohormones play an essential role in plant immune responses. Many phytopathogens secret effector proteins to promote infection and plant hormone signaling pathways are considered to be the potential targets of effectors. Here we found that abscisic acid (ABA) signaling was activated rapidly upon infection with Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst). Pst secretes the effector AvrPtoB to target ABA 8′-hydroxylase CYP707As for degradation in Arabidopsis thaliana. CYP707As hydroxylate ABA to an inactive form. The degradation of CYP707As resulted in ABA accumulation and compromised plant immune responses. Our study demonstrated that Pst could hijack the key components of Arabidopsis ABA signaling pathway to cause disease.
The first combined meta‐analytic approach for elucidating the relationship of circulating resistin levels and RETN gene polymorphisms with colorectal and breast cancer
Authors: Aziz Md. Abdul , Akter Tahmina , Sarwar Md. Shahid , Islam Mohammad Safiqul
Published: March 2022

Background

Evidence suggests that circulating resistin levels are altered in colorectal cancer (CRC) and breast cancer (BC). Again, polymorphisms in resistin-encoding gene RETN have been evaluated in CRC and BC. However, there is a scarcity of data establishing the relationship of resistin and RETN polymorphisms (rs1862513 and rs3745367) with these cancers. This study aimed to analyze the relationship of resistin levels and RETN polymorphisms with CRC and BC in a combined meta-analytic approach.

Main body of the abstract

After a comprehensive online literature search, screening and eligibility check, 41 articles (31 with resistin level and 10 with RETN polymorphisms) were retrieved for meta-analyses. The mean difference (MD) of resistin was calculated and pooled to investigate the effect sizes with a 95% confidence interval (CI), and the connection of genetic polymorphisms was analyzed with an odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI. The analysis showed that resistin level is significantly higher in CRC (MD = 3.39) and BC (MD = 3.91) patients. Subgroup analysis in CRC showed significantly higher resistin in serum (MD = 4.61) and plasma (MD = 0.34), and in BC, a significantly elevated resistin level was reported in premenopausal (MD = 7.82) and postmenopausal (MD = 0.37) patients. Again, RETN rs1862513 showed a significantly strong association with CRC (codominant 1—OR 1.24, codominant 2—OR 1.31, dominant model—OR 1.25, and allele model—OR 1.16) and with BC (codominant 2—OR 1.51, codominant 3—OR 1.51, recessive model—OR 1.51, and allele model—OR 1.21). RETN rs3745367 did not show any association with these cancers.

Short conclusion

Overall, our analysis indicates that higher circulating resistin levels are associated with an elevated risk of CRC and premenopausal and postmenopausal BC. Besides, rs1862513 in RETN gene is significantly connected with both CRC and BC.
Discrimination between phyllodes tumor and fibro-adenoma: Does artificial intelligence-aided mammograms have an impact?
Authors: Mansour Sahar , Kamel Rasha , Marey Ahmed , Hunold Christiane , Yousry Ahmed
Published: March 2022

Background

The indulgence of artificial intelligence (AI) has been considered recently in the work up for the detection and diagnosis of breast cancer through algorithms that could supply diagnosis as the radiologist do. The algorithm learns from a supervised and continuous input of large and new data sets unlike the standard programming, which requires clear step-by-step instructions. The aim of this study is to assess the ability of AI scanned mammograms to aid the ultrasound in the discrimination between phyllodes tumors and fibro-adenomas.

Results

This is a retrospective analysis included 374 proven phyllodes tumors (PT) and fibro-adenomas (FA). Digital mammogram and breast ultrasound was performed for all the cases and each breast was given a “Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System” (BI-RADS) score. Included mammograms were scanned by AI with resultant a qualitative heatmap and a quantitative abnormality scoring of suspicion percentage.

The study included 164 PT (43.9%) and 210 FA (56.1%). BI-RADS category 2 was assigned in 40.1%, category 3 in 38.2%, category 4 in 18.5% and category 5 in 3.2% with median value of the AI abnormality scoring of 23%, 44%, 65% and 90% respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of the conventional imaging were 59.2% and 75.8% respectively. The AI abnormality scoring of 49.5% upgraded the sensitivity to 89.6% and specificity to 94.8% in the ability to discriminate PT from FA masses.

Conclusion

Artificial intelligence-aided mammograms could be used as method of distinction between PT from FA detected on sono-mammogram. The color hue and the quantification of the abnormality scoring percentage could be used as a one setting method for specification and so guide clinicians in their decision of conservative management or the choice of the surgical procedure.
Overview of Adult Sarcoma Burden and Clinical Pathways in Brazil
Authors: David Bruna Bianca Lopes , Abdon Mello Celso , Santos Thuler Luiz Claudio , de Melo Andreia Cristina
Published: March 2022

PURPOSE

Sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of cancers classified as rare cancers and are often poorly characterized. In Brazil, little is known about the adult sarcoma burden and patients' clinical pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed data from the Brazilian Hospital–Based Cancer Registries System, which encompasses the entire country. The histologic criteria included sarcomas according to the International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, 3rd edition. All cases were histology-based. No central pathology review was performed. Patients < 18 years old were excluded. The variables were analyzed according to the center type, hospital patient volume (> 70 patients/year for 3 consecutive years), and geographical region. The results were based on valid data, and the missing values were reported.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2017, a total of 312 units and 49,878 cases were identified. Missing data proportion was stable. Soft tissue sarcomas were predominant, followed by bone sarcomas and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. The Southeast concentrated on the largest number of patients (51%), of high-complexity centers (CACONs; 52%), and of patients treated at CACONs (56.9%). In all regions, the majority of patients had localized disease at diagnosis. The proportion of patients starting their treatment within 60 days from diagnosis at CACON was 59.3% and 62.3% at others. Ten hospitals achieved the established threshold for high-volume center, of which seven were CACON.

CONCLUSION

This article highlights the need for further research on the profile of patients with sarcoma in Brazil and the importance of providing them a more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approach. This initiative is critical not just for planning treatment strategies but also to allocate medical resources and to improve quality of care and sarcoma patients outcomes.
Prevalence of (Epi)genetic Predisposing Factors in a 5-Year Unselected National Wilms Tumor Cohort: A Comprehensive Clinical and Genomic Characterization
Authors: Hol Janna A. , Kuiper Roland P. , van Dijk Freerk , Waanders Esmé , van Peer Sophie E. , Koudijs Marco J. , Bladergroen Reno , van Reijmersdal Simon V. , Morgado Lionel M. , Bliek Jet , Lombardi Maria Paola , Hopman Saskia , Drost Jarno , de Krijger Ronald R. , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M. , Jongmans Marjolijn C.J.
Published: March 2022

PURPOSE

Wilms tumor (WT) is associated with (epi)genetic predisposing factors affecting a growing number of WT predisposing genes and loci, including those causing Beckwith-Wiedemann spectrum (BWSp) or WT1-related syndromes. To guide genetic counseling and testing, we need insight into the prevalence of WT predisposing (epi)genetic factors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All children diagnosed with WT in the Netherlands between 2015 and 2020 were referred to a clinical geneticist. Phenotypic data, disease characteristics, and diagnostic test results were collected. If no genetic predisposition was identified by targeted diagnostic testing, germline (trio-)whole-exome sequencing and BWSp testing on normal kidney-derived DNA were offered.

RESULTS

A total of 126 cases were analyzed of 128 identified patients. (Epi)genetic predisposing factors were present in 42 of 126 patients (33.3%) on the basis of a molecular diagnosis in blood-derived DNA (n = 26), normal kidney-derived DNA (n = 12), or solely a clinical diagnosis of BWSp (n = 4). Constitutional, heterozygous DIS3L2 variants were identified as a recurrent predisposing factor in five patients (4%), with a second somatic hit in 4 of 5 tumors. Twenty patients (16%) were diagnosed with BWSp while four additional patients without BWSp features harbored chromosome 11p15 methylation defects in normal kidney tissue. Remaining findings included WT1-related syndromes (n = 10), Fanconi anemia (n = 1), neurofibromatosis type 1 (n = 1), and a pathogenic REST variant (n = 1). In addition, (likely) pathogenic variants in adult-onset cancer predisposition genes ( BRCA2, PMS2, CHEK2, and MUTYH) were identified in 5 of 56 (8.9%) patients with available whole-exome sequencing data. Several candidate WT predisposition genes were identified, which require further validation.

CONCLUSION

(Epi)genetic WT predisposing factors, including mosaic aberrations and recurrent heterozygous DIS3L2 variants, were present in at least 33.3% of patients with WT. On the basis of these results, we encourage standard genetic testing after counseling by a clinical geneticist.
An optimized retroviral toolbox for overexpression and genetic perturbation of primary lymphocytes
Authors: van der Donk Lieve E. H. , van der Spek Jet , van Duivenvoorde Tom , ten Brink Marieke S. , Geijtenbeek Teunis B. H. , Kuijl Coenraad P. , van Heijst Jeroen W. J. , Ates Louis S.
Published: March 2022

Genetic manipulation of primary lymphocytes is crucial for both clinical purposes and fundamental research. Despite their broad use, we encountered a paucity of data on systematic comparison and optimization of retroviral vectors, the workhorses of genetic modification of primary lymphocytes. Here, we report the construction and validation of a versatile range of retroviral expression vectors. These vectors can be used for the knockdown or overexpression of genes of interest in primary human and murine lymphocytes, in combination with a wide choice of selection and reporter strategies. By streamlining the vector backbone and insert design, these publicly available vectors allow easy interchangeability of the independent building blocks, such as different promoters, fluorescent proteins, surface markers and antibiotic resistance cassettes. We validated these vectors and tested the optimal promoters for in vitro and in vivo overexpression and knockdown of the murine T cell antigen receptor. By publicly sharing these vectors and the data on their optimization, we aim to facilitate genetic modification of primary lymphocytes for researchers entering this field.
The Paget's disease of bone risk gene PML is a negative regulator of osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption
Authors: Wani Sachin , Daroszewska Anna , Salter Donald M. , van ‘t Hof Rob J. , Ralston Stuart H. , Albagha Omar M. E.
Published: March 2022

Paget's disease of bone (PDB) is characterized by focal increases in bone remodelling. Genome-wide association studies identified a susceptibility locus for PDB tagged by rs5742915, which is located within the PML gene. Here, we have assessed the candidacy of PML as the predisposing gene for PDB at this locus. We found that the PDB-risk allele of rs5742915 was associated with lower PML expression and that PML expression in blood cells from individuals with PDB was lower than in controls. The differentiation, survival and resorptive activity of osteoclasts prepared from Pml−/− mice was increased compared with wild type. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of IFN-γ on osteoclast formation from Pml−/− was significantly blunted compared with wild type. Bone nodule formation was also increased in osteoblasts from Pml−/− mice when compared with wild type. Although microCT analysis of trabecular bone showed no differences between Pml−/− mice and wild type, bone histomorphometry showed that Pml−/− mice had high bone turnover with increased indices of bone resorption and increased mineral apposition rate. These data indicate that reduced expression of PML predisposes an individual to PDB and identify PML as a novel regulator of bone metabolism.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Hg(II) Ion-Selective Electrodes with PVC Membranes Based on Bis-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one
Authors: Isildak Omer , Yildiz Ilyas , Erenler Ramazan , Dag Besir , Isildak Ibrahim
Published: March 2022

A new solid-state contact potentiometric membrane electrode was developed based on bis-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one (ionophore), which acts selectively towards the mercury(II) ion. The ionophore was synthesized by the treatment of an amino derivative with oxybis dibenzaldehyde. The potentiometric behavior of an electrode was investigated in the concentration range from 1.0 × 10−2 to 1.0 × 10−6 mol L−1 for mercury(II) ion. The electrode displayed a good linearity (R2 = 0.9997) with the detection limit of 1.2 × 10−7 mol L−1 and showed a very high selectivity against Hg(II) ion without being affected by the presence of interfering ions. The electrode exhibited a potential change of 62.0 ± 2.0 mV for each ten-fold increase in concentration of mercury(II) ion. Potentiometric response of the electrode was investigated in the pH range from 3.0 to 10.0. In addition to this electrode being used to determine mercury(II) in different water samples, it can also be used with EDTA as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of mercury(II) ion. Since the developed electrode displayed good potentiometric performance, it has potential to be used in environmental and biological samples for detection of mercury(II) ions.
Diffusion-weighted MR imaging of musculoskeletal tissues: incremental role over conventional MR imaging in bone, soft tissue, and nerve lesions
Authors: Guirguis Mina , Sharan Gaurav , Wang Jerry , Chhabra Avneesh
Published: March 2022

Diffusion-weighted imaging is increasingly becoming popular in musculoskeletal radiology for its incremental role over conventional MR imaging in the diagnostic strategy and assessment of therapeutic response of bone and soft tissue lesions. This article discusses the technical considerations of diffusion-weighted imaging, how to optimize its performance, and outlines the role of this novel imaging in the identification and characterization of musculoskeletal lesions, such as bone and soft tissue tumors, musculoskeletal infections, arthritis, myopathy, and peripheral neuropathy. The readers can use the newly learned concepts from the presented material containing illustrated case examples to enhance their conventional musculoskeletal imaging and interventional practices and optimize patient management, their prognosis, and outcomes.
Validation of different protocols of inferior alveolar canal tracing using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)
Authors: Fahd Ali , Temerek Ahmed Talaat , Kenawy Sarah Mohammed
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate, compare and validate different protocols of inferior alveolar canal tracing.

Methods

60 DICOM files with a total of 80 inferior alveolar canals were retrieved and imported to a third-party software where all proposed protocols can be performed. Initially, inferior alveolar canal was traced by two oral and maxillofacial radiologists together on cone beam CT cross-sectional images and considered as the baseline for future comparisons. Oral and maxillofacial surgeon performed the proposed different protocols. The protocols were color-coded differently by the surgeon before being compared with the baseline canal by the radiologists through a 5-point scale.

Results

Results showed that no single protocol was successful in all cases, even the cross-sectional protocol. According to the present study, the hybrid protocol was the most accurate while the automatic protocol was the least accurate.

Conclusions

The hybrid protocol was reliable and showed the highest number of successful applications followed by the commonly used cross-sectional protocol. Dental practitioners should be aware of the application of multiple protocols and their pros and cons as no single protocol was successful in all the cases. Applying the same protocols on a larger sample size using different cone beam CT and multislice CT machines with different exposure parameters is recommended.
A new species of Acmella (Gastropoda: Assimineidae) from Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Foon Junn Kitt , Marzuki Mohammad Effendi
Published: March 2022

A new species Acmella paeninsularis from the limestone hills of Perak, Peninsular Malaysia is described based on an ample material. Its diagnostic characters in comparison with related species are given.
The differentiation of mesenchymal bone marrow stem cells into nerve cells induced by Chromolaena odorata extracts
Authors: Eriani Kartini , Desriani Desriani , Suhartono Suhartono , Br Sibarani Miftahul Jannah , Ichsan Ichsan , Syafrizal Dedy , Asmara Hadhymulya
Published: March 2022

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into nerve cells with an induction from chemical compounds in medium culture. Chromolaena odorata contains active compounds, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, that can initiate the transformation of MSCs into nerve cells. The aim of this study was to determine the potential of methanol extracted C. odorata leaf to induce the differentiation of bone marrow MSCs into nerve cells.

Methods: A serial concentration of C. odorata leaf extract (0.7–1.0 mg/mL) with two replications was used. The parameters measured were the number of differentiated MSCs into nerve cells (statistically analyzed using ANOVA) and cell confirmation using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results: The results showed that the C. odorata extract had a significant effect on the number MSCs differentiating into nerve cells (p < 0.05) on the doses of 0.8 mg/ml with 22.6%. Molecular assay with RT-PCR confirmed the presence of the nerve cell gene in all of the samples.

Conclusions: In conclusion, this study showed the potential application of C. odorata leaf extract in stem cell therapy for patients experiencing neurodegeneration by inducing the differentiation of MSCs into nerve cells.