bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
U.S. and Canadian College Students’ Fear of Crime: A Comparative Investigation of Fear of Crime and Its Correlates
Authors: Daigle Leah E. , Hancock Katelyn , Chafin Travis C. , Azimi Andia
Published: March 2021

Being fearful of crime is, unfortunately, a common experience. Research shows that many factors influence a person’s fear of crime, demonstrating that certain groups are generally more fearful than others. Even though they are typically young, college students express being fearful of crime on and off campus. What has yet to be investigated is whether college students who attend school in the United States are fearful at similar levels to their Canadian counterparts. Further, the correlates of fear of crime may also be different. To explore these issues, data from the American College Health Association’s National College Health Assessment II survey of U.S. and Canadian college students are used. Results show that Canadian college students generally perceive their safety as being higher than U.S. college students, even though they face elevated victimization risks. Further, some correlates of fear of crime differ for U.S. and Canadian college students. These findings suggest the need for additional cross-national comparative work to see if patterns generalize across contexts.
Clinical effectiveness of a Malaysian-manufactured CAPD product: A randomised trial
Authors: Mak Wen Yao , Leong Chin Tho , Ong Loke Meng , Bavanandan Sunita , Mushahar Lily , Goh Bak Leong , Wong Hin Seng , Ahmad Ghazali , Liew Yew Fong , Ching Chen Hua , Liu Wen Jiun , Rahmat Korina , Tan Clare Hui-Hong , Ahmad Mohd Kamil , Hassan Wan Hasnul Halimi Wan , Chan Fei Sia , Harun Zaiha , Loh Chek Loong , Teng Kok Seng , Tye Yi Loon , Khan Shahnaz Shah Firdaus , Koh Keng-Hee , Abdullah Rafidah , Hooi Lai Seong
Published: March 2021

Background:

We compared the clinical effectiveness of a new peritoneal dialysis (PD) product with polyvinyl chloride-containing tubing (Stay Safe Link®, SSL) with the plastic-free alternative (Stay Safe®, STS) in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).

Method:

A multicentre, parallel, randomised, controlled, open-label, non-inferiority trial was conducted. Adult patients receiving CAPD were randomised in a 1:1 ratio to SSL or STS. The primary outcome was the rate of peritonitis after 1 year of follow-up.

Results:

A total of 472 subjects were randomised (SSL, n = 233; STS, n = 239). One subject in each group was excluded from the analysis as they withdrew consent before the first dialysis dose. Four hundred and seventy subjects (SSL, n = 232; STS, n = 238) were included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis. Non-inferiority between two groups was established as no significant difference was found in peritonitis rate (incident rate ratio: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.65–1.28). No significant difference was detected in weekly Kt/V ( p = 0.58) and creatinine clearance ( p = 0.55). However, the average ultrafiltration volume was significantly lower in SSL, with a mean difference of 93 ml ( p < 0.01). SSL also demonstrated a 2.57-times higher risk of device defect than STS (95% CI: 1.77–3.75).

Conclusion:

SSL was non-inferior in peritonitis rate compared to plastic-free STS over 1 year in patients requiring CAPD. There was no difference in the delivered dialysis dose, but there was a higher rate of device defects with SSL.
Experimental investigation of pull-out performance of pedicle screws at different polyurethane (PU) foam densities
Authors: Çetin Ahmet , Bircan Durmuş Ali
Published: March 2021

Pedicle bone screws are one of the most critical materials used in spinal orthopaedic operations. Screw loosening and pull-out (PO) are basic complications encountered during or after surgery. Pull-out Strength (POS) of the bone is one of the significant parameters to understand the mechanical behaviour of a screw fixed to poor quality or osteoporotic bone. This study investigates how the POS of a pedicle screw is affected by the factors of the screw diameter and the polyurethane (PU) foam density by experimental analysis. In the experiments, two different diameter (5.5 and 6.5 mm) of conical pedicle screws and five different density (0.08, 0.16, 0.24, 0.32 and 0.48 g·cm−3) PU foams were used. According to the force-displacement curves obtained from experimental results, the POS increased with the increases in screw diameter and PU foam density.
The making of financial subjects: A phenomenological study of student debt
Authors: Feige Sarah , Yen Jeffery
Published: March 2021

While public commentators herald the arrival of the Canadian “student debt crisis,” psychological research into postsecondary student debt proliferates. This study explored the ways in which indebted students themselves understand the meanings and implications of student debt in their own lives, by means of semistructured interviews with nine indebted university students. A hermeneutic phenomenological approach to analysis yielded six themes: indebted by necessity; haunted by distressing thoughts and feelings about debts; living under the pressure to repay debts; living a constrained life; feeling alienated from others; and uncertainty about the meaning of university education. Findings suggest that student debt is characterized by the experience of feeling unable to “live one’s life,” and of looking toward a fragile future after university. By grounding the psychological experience of debt in the socially embedded, historical realities of students’ everyday lives, this work suggests implications for critical psychological understandings of financial subjectivation.
Employee Loyalty: Measurement and Validation
Authors: Dutta Tanusree , Dhir Swati
Published: March 2021

Employee loyalty is a significant attribute to gain competitive advantage in any organization. Research suggests that retaining and nurturing a loyal workforce has many benefits and protects the organization from several disadvantages. Therefore, understanding and measuring employee loyalty is very important for organizational effectiveness. The available literature on employee loyalty is scattered, and there is a shortage of available tools to measure the affective, cognitive and behavioural aspects of the construct. In this study, we developed a scale to measure employee loyalty in terms of the cognitive, affective and behavioural components. We used the mixed methodology and grounded theory approach for this purpose. Test items to measure employee loyalty were developed and data were collected to validate them. Furthermore, the data were subjected to rigorous statistical analysis. Results suggested robust psychometric properties in terms of validity and reliability. Such a scale is beneficial to HR practitioners and professionals, policymakers and other like-minded vocations desirous of measuring employee loyalty.
SDGs, Social Responsibility, Institutions and Cooperatives: Evidence from the Handloom Weaving Sector in India
Authors: Bhowmik Manas Ranjan
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study is to establish linkages between sustainable development goals, social responsibility, institutions and cooperatives by developing a comparison, both theoretically and empirically, between cooperatives and non-cooperatives. In order to develop the theoretical underpinnings, post-Williamsonian transaction cost economics (TCE) has been selected as the theoretical framework. For the empirical analysis, a primary survey has been conducted in two prominent handloom hubs of West Bengal spanning over two districts of the state. A binomial logistic regression has been performed in order to analyse the data collected from the weavers of two different institutions—a master weaver institution and a cooperative institution. Following the post-Williamsonian TCE framework, it has been theoretically shown that the cooperative institution is more efficient in implementing the government’s welfare schemes. The result of the empirical analysis shows that education and distance from the cooperative institution are significant variables that help in the effective implementation of the government’s welfare schemes.
Effect of Systemic Corticosteroid Therapy on the Efficacy and Safety of Nivolumab in the Treatment of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Umehara Kengo , Yama Kaori , Goto Keisuke , Wakamoto Azusa , Hatsuyama Tae , Honjo Osamu , Saikai Toyohiro , Fujita Akihisa , Sato Hideki
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Corticosteroids are used to treat immune-related adverse events (irAEs) associated with nivolumab. However, patients with non-small-cell lung cancer who are administered corticosteroids before the initiation of nivolumab treatment are commonly excluded from clinical trials. The appropriate timing for corticosteroid administration in relation to nivolumab treatment, effects of corticosteroids on the efficacy of nivolumab, and resulting adverse events are not clearly understood. In this study, the effects of differences in the timing of corticosteroid administration on nivolumab efficacy and the resulting adverse events were examined.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted with 109 patients who were treated with nivolumab at Sapporo Minami-Sanjo Hospital between December 2015 and March 2018.

Results:

Of the 109 patients treated with nivolumab, 12 patients were administered corticosteroids before the first cycle of nivolumab (pre-CS), and 33 patients were administered corticosteroids after the first cycle of nivolumab (post-CS). These 2 groups were compared with the control group comprising 64 patients who were not administered corticosteroids (non-CS). The objective response rate in the post-CS group was significantly higher than that in the non-CS group, and the disease control rate in the pre-CS group was significantly lower than that in the non-CS group. The overall survival time and progression-free survival time in the pre-CS group were significantly shorter than those observed in the non-CS group; however, these did not differ from those in the post-CS group.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that corticosteroids administered to patients with non-small-cell lung cancer after initiation of nivolumab treatment did not affect the disease prognosis. Thus, corticosteroids can be administered immediately for rapid treatment of irAEs.
Social and Emotional Development: The Role of Authenticity in the Psychosocial Development of Students With Gifts and Talents
Authors: Cross Tracy L.
Published: March 2021

This column explores the concept of authenticity in the psychosocial development of students with gifts and talents. The author describes how authenticity is critical to students’ psychological well-being, particularly as it relates to their identity formation.
Integrating the Literature on Lethal Violence: A Comparison of Mass Murder, Homicide, and Homicide-Suicide
Authors: Fridel Emma E.
Published: March 2021

Although mass murder is traditionally examined as a separate construct from homicide generally, few studies have explored their similarities and differences. This study compares the incident, victim, and offender characteristics of: (1) mass murderers and homicide offenders; and (2) mass murder-suicide offenders and homicide-suicide perpetrators. Mass murderers are more likely to be male; commit suicide; kill young, white, and female victims; use firearms; co-offend; operate in public places; and kill as part of drug trafficking and/or gang warfare. The analysis demonstrates that mass murderers are distinct from both homicide and homicide-suicide perpetrators, and represent a unique type of violent offender.
Fetal and Perinatal Brain Autopsy: Useful Macroscopic Techniques Including Agar In-situ and Pre-Embedding Methods
Authors: van Dijk Marcory CRF , Kornegoor Robert , Mol Suzanne , Rodriguez Michael
Published: March 2021

Fragile perinatal and fetal brains are the rule rather than the exception for developmental neuropathologists. Retrieving the fresh brain from the skull and examining early fetal, macerated or severely hydrocephalic brains after fixation can be a challenge. Textbooks on neurodevelopmental pathology mention these challenges to macroscopic examination of the developing central nervous system only in passing, but many perinatal pathologists recognize this diagnostic problem. We reviewed protocols and publications on the removal, fixation, slicing and sampling of these fetal- and perinatal brains. In addition, we describe a technique to facilitate the removal of severely hydrocephalic brains with very thin cerebral walls from the skull by replacing the intraventricular fluid with agar in-situ. Furthermore, we present a method for post-fixation pre-embedding in agar to facilitate slicing, macroscopic examination and sampling of fragile and macerated brains.
A Review of the Exhibit Fix: Heartbreak and Hope: Inside Our Opioid Crisis: Finding Common Ground Between Health Promotion and Museum Practice
Authors: Sharp Ethan
Published: March 2021

The Indiana State Museum’s Fix: Heartbreak and Hope: Inside Our Opioid Crisis is the first large-scale exhibit dedicated to the opioid epidemic. It involves diverse groups of visitors in learning about the history and science of opioid use disorder, making decisions that will help resolve the opioid crisis, and practicing techniques that for many people are essential to long-term recovery. By reviewing the different components of the exhibit, I show how the exhibit can serve as a basic model for advancing health promotion in museums. The exhibit illuminates the ways interactive health exhibits can engage adult visitors, reduce stigma, provide knowledge that visitors can use to exercise control over their health, and expand awareness of the need for evidence-based approaches to public health crises.
Staff-Care by Chaplains during COVID-19
Authors: Tata Beba , Nuzum Daniel , Murphy Karen , Karimi Leila , Cadge Wendy
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study was to understand how chaplains delivered spiritual care to staff during the Covid-19 pandemic. The researchers analyzed data collected from an International Survey of Chaplain Activity and Experience during Covid-19 (N = 1657). The findings revealed positive changes that emerged and new practices evolved around the use of technology as useful tools for maintaining contact with staff.
A mapping model between the workpiece geometric tolerance and the end pose error of CNC machine tool considering structure distortion of cutting process system
Authors: Lin Zixin , Tian Wenjie , Zhang Dawei , Gao Weiguo , Wang Lina
Published: March 2021

Aiming at the problem that the geometric accuracy design index of machine tools is difficult to be determined reasonably in the geometric precision design process of CNC machine tools, this paper presents a mapping model between geometric tolerance of the workpiece and end pose error (positional and orientational error of the tool relative to the workpiece) of the machine tool considering structure distortion of cutting process system. Only considering the factors of the machine tool geometric errors, this paper first establishes the relationship between the geometric tolerance requirements of the workpiece and relative pose error at the end of machine tools, and completes the estimation of the machine tools end pose error. Then this paper analyzes the elastic deformations of the cutting process system caused by the cutting force. These elastic deformations produce machining errors. Based on the above analysis, the estimated variation range of the end pose error can be adjusted by the emulation of the geometric tolerance of the workpiece and used as the geometric accuracy design index of machine tools. This paper takes the international standard small size contour processing test piece as an example to explain the application process of the proposed model.
Safety and outcomes of combined carbon dioxide angiography and OCT-guided femoro-popliteal chronic total occlusion crossing and directional atherectomy in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Memon Sehrish , Janzer Sean , George Jon C
Published: March 2021

Background

Carbon dioxide angiography with addition of optical coherence tomography imaging may improve procedural success and clinical outcomes in patients with peripheral artery disease and chronic kidney disease.

Methods

Single-center, retrospective analysis of patients with chronic kidney disease who underwent carbon dioxide angiography and optical coherence tomography-guided chronic total occlusion crossing and/or optical coherence tomography-guided directional atherectomy was performed. Patient and procedure-related characteristics, along with peri- and one-year post-procedural major adverse events, were analyzed.

Results

A total of 18 vessels in 11 patients, with mean age 70 years were treated. All had co-morbidities such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, had history or were current smokers with baseline peripheral artery disease. Majority were diabetic with coronary disease (82%); 55% baseline chronic kidney disease IV, 55% Rutherford class III and 45% class IV. Contrast was used in only two patients. Mean total fluoroscopy time and radiation dose was 24.1 min and 249.2 mGY, respectively. Half of the lesions were femoro-popliteal chronic total occlusions, and Ocelot catheter was used to cross seven of nine chronic total occlusions and was successful in six. Adjunctive optical coherence tomography-guided directional atherectomy was performed in 8 of 11 patients. Only two adverse events occurred: one clinically significant event of slow-flow intra-procedurally and one target limb revascularization within one year of index procedure in a vessel different than prior treated. Optical coherence tomography imaging in both chronic total occlusion-crossing and atherectomy resulted in 10-min mean fluoroscopy reduction time and 32 mGY reduction in radiation dose.

Conclusion

Carbon dioxide angiography with the addition of optical coherence tomography imaging for chronic total occlusion crossing and/or optical coherence tomography-guided directional atherectomy reduced the need for contrast agents, total fluoroscopy time, and radiation exposure in patients with peripheral artery disease and baseline chronic kidney disease.
Lung ultrasound in blunt chest trauma: A clinical review
Authors: Rovida Serena , Orso Daniele , Naeem Salman , Vetrugno Luigi , Volpicelli Giovanni
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Bedside lung sonography is recognized as a reliable diagnostic modality in trauma settings due to its ability to detect alterations both in lung parenchyma and in pleural cavities. In severe blunt chest trauma, lung ultrasound can identify promptly life-threatening conditions which may need direct intervention, whereas in minor trauma, lung ultrasound contributes to detection of acute pathologies which are often initially radio-occult and helps in the selection of those patients that might need further investigation.

Topic Description

We did a literature search on databases EMBASE, PubMed, SCOPUS and Google Scholar using the terms ‘trauma’, ‘lung contusion’, ‘pneumothorax’, ‘hemothorax’ and ‘lung ultrasound’. The latest articles were reviewed and this article was written using the most current and validated information.

Discussion

Lung ultrasound is quite accurate in diagnosing pneumothorax by using a combination of four sonographic signs; absence of lung sliding, B-lines, lung pulse and presence of lung point. It provides a rapid diagnosis in hemodynamically unstable patients. Lung contusions and hemothorax can be diagnosed and assessed with lung ultrasound. Ultrasound is also very useful for evaluating rib and sternal fractures and for imaging the pericardium for effusion and tamponade.

Conclusion

Bedside lung ultrasound can lead to rapid and accurate diagnosis of major life-threatening pathologies in blunt chest trauma patients.
Comparisons of physical activity and sedentary behavior between owners and non-owners of commercial wearable devices
Authors: Yen Hsin-Yen , Huang Hao-Yun
Published: March 2021

Aims:

Wearable devices are a new strategy for promoting physical activity in a free-living condition that utilizes self-monitoring, self-awareness, and self-determination. The main purpose of this study was to explore health benefits of commercial wearable devices by comparing physical activity, sedentary time, sleep quality, and other health outcomes between individuals who used and those that did not use commercial wearable devices.

Methods:

The research design was a cross-sectional study using an Internet survey in Taiwan. Self-administered questionnaires included the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile, and World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Scale.

Results:

In total, 781 participants were recruited, including 50% who were users of wearable devices and 50% non-users in the most recent 3 months. Primary outcomes revealed that wearable device users had significantly higher self-reported walking, moderate physical activity, and total physical activity, and significantly lower sedentary time than non-users. Wearable device users had significantly better sleep quality than non-users.

Conclusion:

Wearable devices inspire users’ motivation, engagement, and interest in physical activity through habit formation. Wearable devices are recommended to increase physical activity and decrease sedentary behavior for promoting good health.
Sad delusions: The decline and rise of Greater Europe
Authors: Sakwa Richard
Published: March 2021

The end of the Cold War was accompanied by the idea that the fall of the Berlin Wall represented the beginning of the unification of Europe. Mikhail Gorbachev talked in terms of a “Common European Home,” an idea that continues in the guise of the project for a “Greater Europe.” However, right from the start, the transformative idea of Greater Europe was countered by the notion of “Europe whole and free,” whose fundamental dynamic was the enlargement of the existing West European order to encompass the rest of the continent. This was a program for the enlargement of the Atlantic system. After some prevarication, the enlargement agenda proved unacceptable to Moscow, and while it continues to argue in favor of transformation its main efforts are now devoted to creating some sort of “greater Eurasia.” There remains a fundamental tension between Atlanticist and pan-continental version of the post-–Cold War international order in the region. This tension gave rise to conflict and war: in 2008 (the Russo-Georgian War) and again from 2014 (Ukraine), and to what some call the Second Cold War. The continent is once again divided. However, pan-continentalism is far from dead, and although Greater Eurasian ideas have thrived, some sort of Greater European continentalism remains on the agenda. Is this, though, no more than a “sad delusion” or a genuine possibility?
Continuous positive airway pressure therapy reduces the levels of catecholamines and blood pressure in pseudophaeochromocytoma with coexisting obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Ken-Dror Gie , Wood Michael , Fluck David , Sharma Pankaj , Fry Christopher H , Han Thang S
Published: March 2021

Background

Stress from obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) stimulates catecholamine release and consequently can exacerbate hypertension, even in the absence of a catecholamine-producing tumour (phaeochromocytoma). As such, a positive screening test for suspected phaeochromocytoma may be misleading. There exists only a handful case reports, and no controlled trials, how continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to treat OSA influences catecholamine levels. We examined changes to levels of urinary catecholamine and blood pressure in response to CPAP treatment.

Methods

We conducted a meta-analysis of data aggregated from published case reports of individual patient data up to April 2020. The quality of the reports was evaluated using the risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions (ROBINS-I) tool.

Results

A total of 13 cases (seven men and six women) from seven reports met our search criteria. Patients had mean age of 49.1 years (range = 36–62) and body mass index of 37.4 kg/m2 (range = 27–56). Most had moderate to severe OSA with CPAP treatment. Nine cases had 24-hour urinary noradrenaline assessment before and after CPAP treatment. CPAP treatment led to a 21% reduction (104 nmol/24-hours, 95% credible interval =59 to 148) in 24-hour urinary noradrenaline to within reference ranges, and 25% reduction (from 131 to 100 mmHg) in mean arterial pressure. The risk of overall bias evaluated by the ROBINS-I tool was found to be low in the majority of reports.

Conclusions

Investigations of patients suspected of phaeochromocytoma, particularly obese individuals, should exclude OSA and treat this condition if present before performing screening tests to assess for catecholamine levels.
Can we improve teaching and learning of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy’s bronchoscopic guidance?
Authors: Abbott Francisco , Ortega Marcos , Bravo Sebastian , Basoalto Roque , Kattan Eduardo
Published: March 2021

Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy has become the technique of choice in multiple intensive care units. Among innovations to improve procedural safety and success, bronchoscopic guidance of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy has been advocated and successfully implemented by multiple groups. Most published literature focuses on the percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy operator, with scarce descriptions of the bronchoscopic particularities of the procedure. In this article, we provide 10 suggestions to enhance specific procedural aspects of bronchoscopic guidance of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy, and strategies to optimize its teaching and learning, in order to promote learners’ competence acquisition and increase patient safety.
Cortical Vein Thrombosis in a Case of Clinically Isolated Syndrome and Psoriasis—A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Agadi Jagadish B. , Viswanathan Lakshminarayanapuram Gopal , Kumar Sujit , Pramod Manithody Narayan-Bhat
Published: March 2021

Cortical vein/venous sinus thrombosis (CVT) occurring in the context of a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) is highly unusual. Our patient presented with dorsal cord demyelination and psoriasis. She developed severe headache post-lumbar puncture, which was followed by focal seizures. She had developed CVT with a hemorrhagic infarct in the left parietal region. Multiple factors, both patient related and as a consequence of treatment and management, may have contributed to this outcome. We aim to discuss the relevance of this rare finding with a brief review of literature.
Beyond Uberization: The co-constitution of technology and organizing
Authors: Faraj Samer , Pachidi Stella
Published: March 2021

Uberization has emerged as a platform-based form of organizing that is reshaping work and labour markets and that is fundamentally challenging existing thinking on organizing. We suggest that organizational theorists have been reluctant to address the constitutive relation between technology and organizing. By emphasizing co-constitution, we argue against viewing technology as an entity that is separate, exogenous, or causal. Instead, we offer that technology can be fruitfully viewed as endogenous to and constitutively entwined with organizational actions and structures. To illustrate this co-constitution, we present a brief analysis of Uberization from a regime of organizing perspective that emphasizes how organizing practices, valuation schemes, authority arrangements and technological arrangements are entwined with each other. We conclude with an invitation to organizational theorists to more specifically engage with technology as they theorize new forms of organizing.
Influence of genetics and the pre-vaccination blood transcriptome on the variability of antibody levels after vaccination against Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in pigs
Authors: Blanc Fany , Maroilley Tatiana , Revilla Manuel , Lemonnier Gaëtan , Leplat Jean-Jacques , Billon Yvon , Ravon Laure , Bouchez Olivier , Bidanel Jean-Pierre , Bed’Hom Bertrand , Pinard-van der Laan Marie-Hélène , Estellé Jordi , Rogel-Gaillard Claire
Published: March 2021

Background

The impact of individual genetic and genomic variations on immune responses is an emerging lever investigated in vaccination strategies. In our study, we used genetic and pre-vaccination blood transcriptomic data to study vaccine effectiveness in pigs.

Results

A cohort of 182 Large White pigs was vaccinated againstMycoplasma hyopneumoniae(M. hyo) at weaning (28 days of age), with a booster 21 days later. Vaccine response was assessed by measuring sericM. hyoantibodies (Ab) at 0 (vaccination day), 21 (booster day), 28, 35, and 118 days post-vaccination (dpv). Inter-individual variability ofM. hyoAb levels was observed at all time points and the corresponding heritabilities ranged from 0.46 to 0.57. Ab persistence was higher in females than in males. Genome-wide association studies with a 658 K SNP panel revealed two genomic regions associated with variations ofM. hyoAb levels at 21 dpv at positions where immunity-related genes have been mapped,DAB2IPon chromosome 1, andASAP1,CYRIBandGSDMCon chromosome 4. We studied covariations of Ab responses with the pre-vaccination blood transcriptome obtained by RNA-Seq for a subset of 82 pigs. Weighted gene correlation network and differential expression analyses between pigs that differed in Ab responses highlighted biological functions that were enriched in heme biosynthesis and platelet activation for low response at 21 dpv, innate antiviral immunity and dendritic cells for high response at 28 and 35 dpv, and cell adhesion and extracellular matrix for high response at 118 dpv. Sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis identified 101 genes that efficiently predicted divergent responders at all time points. We found weak negative correlations ofM. hyoAb levels with body weight traits, which revealed a trade-off that needs to be further explored.

Conclusions

We confirmed the influence of the host genetics on vaccine effectiveness toM. hyoand provided evidence that the pre-vaccination blood transcriptome co-varies with the Ab response. Our results highlight that both genetic markers and blood biomarkers could be used as potential predictors of vaccine response levels and more studies are required to assess whether they can be exploited in breeding programs.
Premedication with reformulated simethicone and sodium bicarbonate improves mucosal visibility during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: a double-blind, multicenter, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Xueqin , Dai Ning , Deng Yanyong , Sun Xin , Zhang Mingqing , Pan Jie , Huang Zhiming , Ye Guoliang , Si Jianmin , Wang Lan , Chen Shujie
Published: March 2021

Background

The reformulated simethicone emulsion from Berlin Chemical AG might develop white flocculate precipitate covering the gastric mucosa when used before esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). We aim to investigate whether combining the reformulated simethicone emulsion with 5% sodium bicarbonate solution could prevent the development of white precipitate and improve visibility during EGD.

Methods

Our clinical study involved 523 patients. They were randomly assigned to two groups. In Group A, patients received a warm solution containing 30 ml 5% sodium bicarbonate solution and 15 ml reformulated simethicone emulsion. In Group B, patients received 45 ml 40 °C lukewarm water. Visibility scores were recorded and analyzed. Flushes, volume of flush water, overall time taken for EGD and complications during or after the procedure were also recorded.

Results

We found that no white precipitate was observed during EGD in Group A. Moreover, visibility scores in Group A were significantly lower (P < 0.01). Patients in Group A had fewer flushes (P < 0.01) and smaller volume of flush water (P < 0.01). In addition, the overall time taken for the EGD procedure was significantly shorter in Group A (P < 0.01). The percentage of patients who had no adverse response was significantly higher in Group A than in Group B (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Premedication with a mixed solution of 15 ml reformulated simethicone emulsion and 30 ml 5% sodium bicarbonate solution can prevent the development of white precipitate, substantially enhancing mucosal visibility safely.

Trial registration: The registered name of the trial is “Efficacy of using premedication with reformulated simethicone emulsion during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy examination”. Its Current Controlled Trials number is ChiCTR1900021689. Its date of registration is 11 September 2019. Retrospectively registered,http://www.medresman.org.cn/uc/sindex.aspx.
Community transmission of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis is associated with activity space overlap in Lima, Peru
Authors: Bui David P. , Chandran Shruthi S. , Oren Eyal , Brown Heidi E. , Harris Robin B. , Knight Gwenan M. , Grandjean Louis
Published: March 2021

Background

Transmission of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) requires spatial proximity between infectious cases and susceptible persons. We assess activity space overlap among MDRTB cases and community controls to identify potential areas of transmission.

Methods

We enrolled 35 MDRTB cases and 64 TB-free community controls in Lima, Peru. Cases were whole genome sequenced and strain clustering was used as a proxy for transmission. GPS data were gathered from participants over seven days. Kernel density estimation methods were used to construct activity spaces from GPS locations and the utilization distribution overlap index (UDOI) was used to quantify activity space overlap.

Results

Activity spaces of controls (median = 35.6 km2, IQR = 25.1–54) were larger than cases (median = 21.3 km2, IQR = 17.9–48.6) (P = 0.02). Activity space overlap was greatest among genetically clustered cases (mean UDOI = 0.63, sd = 0.67) and lowest between cases and controls (mean UDOI = 0.13, sd = 0.28). UDOI was positively associated with genetic similarity of MDRTB strains between case pairs (P < 0.001). The odds of two cases being genetically clustered increased by 22% per 0.10 increase in UDOI (OR = 1.22, CI = 1.09–1.36, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Activity space overlap is associated with MDRTB clustering. MDRTB transmission may be occurring in small, overlapping activity spaces in community settings. GPS studies may be useful in identifying new areas of MDRTB transmission.
Morbidity after elective surgery in patients on chronic dialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Palamuthusingam Dharmenaan , Nadarajah Arun , Johnson David Wayne , Pascoe Elaine Marie , Hawley Carmel Marie , Fahim Magid
Published: March 2021

Background

Patients on chronic dialysis are at increased risk of postoperative mortality following elective surgery compared to patients with normal kidney function, but morbidity outcomes are less often reported. This study ascertains the excess odds of postoperative cardiovascular and infection related morbidity outcomes for patients on chronic dialysis.

Methods

Systematic searches were performed using MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant studies published from inception to January 2020. Eligible studies reported postoperative morbidity outcomes in chronic dialysis and non-dialysis patients undergoing major non-transplant surgery. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the certainty of evidence was summarised using GRADE. Random effects meta-analyses were performed to derive summary odds estimates. Meta-regression and sensitivity analyses were performed to explore heterogeneity.

Results

Forty-nine studies involving 10,513,934 patients with normal kidney function and 43,092 patients receiving chronic dialysis were included. Patients on chronic dialysis had increased unadjusted odds of postoperative cardiovascular and infectious complications within each surgical discipline. However, the excess odds of cardiovascular complications was attenuated when odds ratios were adjusted for age and comorbidities; myocardial infarction (general surgery, OR 1.83 95% 1.29–2.36) and stroke (general surgery, OR 0.95, 95%CI 0.84–1.06). The excess odds of infectious complications remained substantially higher for patients on chronic dialysis, particularly sepsis (general surgery, OR 2.42, 95%CI 2.12–2.72).

Conclusion

Patients on chronic dialysis are at increased odds of both cardiovascular and infectious complications following elective surgery, with the excess odds of cardiovascular complications attributable to being on dialysis being highest among younger patients without comorbidities. However, further research is needed to better inform perioperative risk assessment.
Mutational profiles of marker genes of cervical carcinoma in Bangladeshi patients
Authors: Sharmin Shahana , Zohura Fatima Tuj , Islam Md. Sajedul , Shimonty Anika , Khan Md. Abdullah-Al-Kamran , Parveen Rehana , Sharmin Foujia , Ahsan Chowdhury Rafiqul , Islam Abul Bashar Mir Md. Khademul , Yasmin Mahmuda
Published: March 2021

Background

Cervical cancer is a gynecologic cancer type that develops in the cervix, accounting for 8% mortality of all female cancer patients. Infection with specific human papillomavirus (HPV) types is considered the most severe risk factor for cervical cancer. In the context of our socioeconomic conditions, an increasing burden of this disease and high mortality rate prevail in Bangladesh. Although several researches related to the epidemiology, HPV vaccination, and treatment modalities were conducted, researches on the mutation profiles of marker genes in cervical cancer in Bangladesh remain unexplored.

Methods

In this study, five different genomic regions within the top three most frequently mutated genes (EGFR, KRASandPIK3CA)in COSMIC database with a key role in the development of cervical cancers were selected to study the mutation frequency in Bangladeshi patients.In silicoanalysis was done in two steps: nucleotide sequence analysis and its corresponding amino acid analysis.

Results

DNA from 46 cervical cancer tissue samples were extracted and amplified by PCR, using 1 set of primers designed forEGFRand 2 sets of primers designed for two different regions of bothPIK3CAandKRASgene. In total, 39 mutations were found in 26 patient samples. Eleven different mutations (23.91%), twenty-four different mutations (52.17%) and four mutations (8.7%) were found in amplifiedEGFR, PIK3CAandKRASgene fragments, respectively; among which 1 (EGFR) was common in seven patient samples and 2 (PIKCA) were found in more than 1 patient. Our study shows that except forKRAS, the frequency of observed mutations in our patients is higher than those reported earlier in other parts of the world. Most of the exonic mutations were found only in thePIK3CAandEGFRgenes.

Conclusions

The study can be used as a basis to build a mutation database for cervical cancer in Bangladesh with the possibility of targetable oncogenic mutations. Further explorations are needed to establish future diagnostics, personalized medicine decisions, and other pharmaceutical applications for specific cancer subtypes.
Early surgery with antibiotic medication was effective and efficient in treating pyogenic spondylodiscitis
Authors: Guo Wei , Wang Min , Chen Guangfu , Chen Kuan-Hung , Wan Yong , Chen Bailing , Zou Xuenong , Peng Xinsheng
Published: March 2021

Background

Pyogenic spondylodiscitis (PSD) is challenging to the orthopedist with regards to diagnosis and treatment. The present study was designed to assess and suggest the most indicative diagnostic method and evaluate the effect of surgery comprising of debridement, instrumentation and fusion in treating PSD.

Methods

Seventy-six patients with PSD who underwent surgical intervention were retrospectively enrolled. Their medical documents, corrections of spinal alignment and improvements in neurological function were assessed. Surgical approaches were compared in lumbar surgeries regarding the improvements in lordotic angle and neurological function.

Results

Elevated c-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were found in 77.6 and 71.1% patients respectively. Infectious lesions were found at lumbar (85.5%), cervical (10.5%) and thoracic (3.9%), ascertained with contrast-enhanced MRI. For lumbar patients, surgery was performed through the anterior (26.2%), posterior (49.2%) or combined approach (24.6%), and differences in improvement of lordosis and neurological function between each approach were insignificant. The pathogen was identified in 22.4% of the patients. Postoperative antibiotic therapy was managed against the result of susceptibility test, or empirically given to patients with negative cultures. All antibiotic therapy was initiated intravenously for 4–6 weeks and orally for 6 weeks.

Conclusion

Elevated CRP and/or ESR, with focal hyper-intensity on contrast-enhanced MRI are suggestive of possible PSD. Surgical intervention comprising of debridement, short-segment instrumentation and fusion that early applied to the PSD patients followed by postoperative antibiotic therapy have demonstrated preferable outcomes, but require further study.

The translational potential of this article

This article advocates early surgery to enable prompt diagnosis and treatment of PSD, and thus guarantee favorable outcomes for patients, as is shown in our study. In addition, different surgical approaches to the lesions were compared and discussed in this manuscript, but no differences in outcome between approaches were found. This suggests that thorough debridement should be prioritized over selection of surgical approach. In summary, this article has large translational potential to be applied clinically.
Using arthroscopy combined with fluoroscopic technique for accurate location of the bone tunnel entrance in chronic ankle instability treatment
Authors: Wei Shijun , Fan Dongsheng , Han Fang , Tang Ming , Kong Changwang , Xu Feng , Cai Xianhua
Published: March 2021

Background

Minimally invasive reconstruction techniques are used for anatomical ligament construction of the lateral collateral ligament complex of the ankle, but the two key elements, the bone tunnel and the appropriate graft tension, for the identification of the anatomic location during the surgery are not clearly stated.

Methods

The patients with chronic ankle instability who received arthroscopic anatomic lateral ligament complex reconstruction were retrospectively analyzed. The anatomical location of the bone tunnel was performed under arthroscopy combined with fluoroscopy for accurate location of the bone tunnel entrance. The graft tension and routing were controlled under arthroscopic visualization. The clinical outcomes were assessed using the Karlsson-Peterson score, Sefton articular stability scale, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The complications were recorded during the follow-up.

Results

A total of 18 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean follow-up was 33.33 ± 3.69 (range from 24 to 36) months. No patient had recurrence of ankle instability after the operation. According to the Sefton articular stability scale, 94.5% of the patients had excellent/good function. The mean value of the anterior drawer tests and the talar tilt angle examination were decreased. The mean of the Karlsson-Peterson score and the Visual Analogue Scale(VAS) score were both improved significantly.

Conclusions

The anatomic reconstruction of the ankle lateral ligament complex to treat chronic ankle instability using the arthroscopy combined with the fluoroscopic technique could improve the clinical functions, satisfaction, and reduced pain of patients.
Calcium to magnesium intake ratio and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease development: a case-control study
Authors: Emamat Hadi , Ghalandari Hamid , Totmaj Ali Saneei , Tangestani Hadith , Hekmatdoost Azita
Published: March 2021

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Adoption of sedentary life style and westernized diet are shown to be associated with development of NAFLD. Since previous studies suggested that calcium (Ca) to magnesium (Mg) ratio intake is associated with some chronic diseases including dyslipidemia and insulin resistance, we designed this study to find any possible association between this ratio and NAFLD development.

Methods

The NAFLD was diagnosed using Fibroscan according to a CAP cut-off value of 263 dB/m. Dietary intakes of one hundred and ninety-six patients with incident NAFLD diagnosis, and eight hundred and three controls without NAFLD were assessed using a valid food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Dietary nutrients were calculated using Nutritionist IV software.

Results

Age of the study population (57 % female) was 43.2 ± 14.1 years. In addition, energy-adjusted daily calcium to magnesium intake ratio was 2.34 ± 0.57 and 2.73 ± 0.69 for control and case groups, respectively. In the multivariable-adjusted model, after adjustment for potential confounding variables; including, age, gender, BMI, alcohol consumption, smoking, diabetes, physical activity, energy, dietary fiber, carbohydrate, fat, and protein intakes, participants in the third (Q3) and fourth (Q4) quartile of Ca/Mg ratio intake had a greater development of incidental NAFLD compared to the lowest quartile (Q1) [(OR = 2.86; 95 % CI: 1.20–6.81), (P-value = 0.017) and (OR = 5.97; 95 % CI: 2.54–14.01), (P-value < 0.001) for Q3 and Q4 compared to the Q1, respectively]. Moreover, energy-adjusted Ca to Mg intake ratio was positively correlated with plasma level of ALT (r = 0.18; P = 0.01); contrarily, it had no correlation with plasma levels of AST.

Conclusions

The current study revealed that higher dietary Ca to Mg intake ratio is associated with a greater development of NAFLD. Further interventional studies are needed to confirm the causal relationship of the Ca/Mg ratio intake and development of NAFLD.
1H nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolite profiling of guava leaf extract: an attempt to develop a prototype for standardization of plant extracts
Authors: Gholkar Manasi S. , Li Jia V. , Daswani Poonam G. , Tetali P. , Birdi Tannaz J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Herbal medicines are fast gaining popularity. However, their acceptability by modern practitioners is low which is often due to lack of standardization. Several approaches towards standardization of herbals have been employed. The current study attempted to recognize key peaks from 1H NMR spectra which together would comprise of a spectral fingerprint relating to efficacy of Psidium guajava (guava) leaf extract as an antidiarrhoeal when a number of unidentified active principles are involved.

Methods

Ninety samples of guava leaves were collected from three locations over three seasons. Hydroalcoholic (water and ethanol, 50:50) extracts of these samples were prepared and their 1H NMR spectra were acquired. Spectra were also obtained for quercetin, ferulic acid and gallic acid as standards. Eight bioassays reflecting different stages of diarrhoeal pathogenesis were undertaken and based on pre-decided cut-offs, the extracts were classified as ‘good’ or ‘poor’ extracts. The bioactivity data was then correlated with the 1H NMR profiles using Regression or Orthogonal Partial Least Square-Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA).

Results

OPLS-DA showed seasonal and regional segregation of extracts. Significant models were established for seven bioassays, namely those for anti-bacterial activity against Shigella flexneri and Vibrio cholerae, adherence of E. coli, invasion of E. coli and S. flexneri and production and binding of toxin produced by V. cholerae. It was observed that none of the extracts were good or bad across all the bioassays. The spectral analysis showed multiple peaks correlating with a particular activity. Based on NMR and LC-MS/MS, it was noted that the extracts contained quercetin, ferulic acid and gallic acid. However, they did not correlate with the peaks that segregated extracts with good and poor activity.

Conclusions

The current study identified key peaks in 1H NMR spectra contributing to the anti-diarrhoeal activity of guava leaf extracts. The approach of using spectral fingerprinting employed in the present study can thus be used as a prototype towards standardization of plant extracts with respect to efficacy.