bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical management outcome of cerebral schistosomiasis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ahmed Moayad Moawia ZainElabdin , Osman Haytham Hussein Mohammed , Mohamed Alaa Hatim Ameer , Ginawi Alaaeldin
Published: May 2021

Background

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection that commonly affects the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. Cerebral schistosomiasis is rare, and few operative cases have been reported in the literature. Diagnosis is usually challenging due to the similarity of the lesion to many other brain conditions. Treatment usually requires surgical resection combined with the use of antiparasitic agents, which often results in good outcomes and excellent prognosis.

Case presentation

A 24-year-old, previously healthy Afro-asiatic man presented to our neurosurgical outpatient clinic complaining of headache and an attack of convulsions. On examination, he had bilateral lower limb weakness more on the right side. Laboratory investigations including stool and urine general test results were unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was performed and showed an intra-axial left parietal mass; a granulomatous lesion was suggested in the differential diagnoses. The patient underwent craniotomy and total resection of the lesion. Histopathology confirmed the presence of active cerebralSchistosoma mansoniinfection. Orally administered praziquantel was initiated at a dose of 20 mg/kg twice a day for a total of 3 days along with oral administration of corticosteroids for 2 weeks. The patient improved postoperatively without residual weakness and with no further convulsions.

Conclusion

Cerebral schistosomiasis is a rare but important consideration in the list of differential diagnoses of cerebral space-occupying lesions. This is of particular importance in in endemic areas like Sudan. In order to reach a diagnosis, careful social and occupational history need to be obtained and correlated with the clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings. Surgical resection along with the use of proper antiparasitic agents usually provides the best clinical outcomes.
Combining microorganisms in inoculants is agronomically important but industrially challenging: case study of a composite inoculant containing Bradyrhizobium and Azospirillum for the soybean crop
Authors: Garcia Marcos Vinicios Conceição , Nogueira Marco Antonio , Hungria Mariangela
Published: May 2021

The increasing global perception of the importance of microbial inoculants to promote productivity and sustainability in agriculture prompts the adoption of bio-inputs by the farmers. The utilization of selected elite strains of nitrogen-fixing and other plant-growth promoting microorganisms in single inoculants creates a promising market for composite inoculants. However, combining microorganisms with different physiological and nutritional needs requires biotechnological development. We report the development of a composite inoculant containing Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens and Azospirillum brasilense for the soybean crop. Evaluation of use of carbon sources indicates differences between the microbial species, with Bradyrhizobium growing better with mannitol and glycerol, and Azospirillum with malic acid and maleic acid, allowing the design of a formulation for co-culture. Species also differ in their growth rates, and the best performance of both microorganisms occurred when Azospirillum was inoculated on the third day of growth of Bradyrhizobium. The composite inoculant developed was evaluated in five field trials performed in Brazil, including areas without and with naturalized populations of Bradyrhizobium. The composite inoculant resulted in symbiotic performance comparable to the application of the two microorganisms separately. In comparison to the single inoculation with Bradyrhizobium, co-inoculation resulted in average increases of 14.7% in grain yield and 16.4% in total N accumulated in the grains. The performance of the composite inoculant was similar or greater than that of the non-inoculated control receiving a high dose of N-fertilizer, indicating the importance of the development and validation of inoculants carrying multiple beneficial microorganisms.
Secure big data ecosystem architecture: challenges and solutions
Authors: Anwar Memoona J. , Gill Asif Q. , Hussain Farookh K. , Imran Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Big data ecosystems are complex data-intensive, digital–physical systems. Data-intensive ecosystems offer a number of benefits; however, they present challenges as well. One major challenge is related to the privacy and security. A number of privacy and security models, techniques and algorithms have been proposed over a period of time. The limitation is that these solutions are primarily focused on an individual or on an isolated organizational context. There is a need to study and provide complete end-to-end solutions that ensure security and privacy throughout the data lifecycle across the ecosystem beyond the boundary of an individual system or organizational context. The results of current study provide a review of the existing privacy and security challenges and solutions using the systematic literature review (SLR) approach. Based on the SLR approach, 79 applicable articles were selected and analyzed. The information from these articles was extracted to compile a catalogue of security and privacy challenges in big data ecosystems and to highlight their interdependencies. The results were categorized from theoretical viewpoint using adaptive enterprise architecture and practical viewpoint using DAMA framework as guiding lens. The findings of this research will help to identify the research gaps and draw novel research directions in the context of privacy and security in big data-intensive ecosystems.
Different configurations of the two-step floating catchment area method for measuring the spatial accessibility to hospitals for people living with disability: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kiani Behzad , Mohammadi Alireza , Bergquist Robert , Bagheri Nasser
Published: May 2021

Background

Poor spatial accessibility to hospital services is associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates among people living with disability. Improved methods to evaluate spatial accessibility are needed. This study measured the potential spatial accessibility of people living with disability by applying four configurations of the two-step floating catchment area (2SFCA) method to recommend the best model for use in health services research.

Methods

2SFCA and an enhanced version (E2SFCA) were used to measure hospital accessibility for people living with disability. We also developed and embedded a non-spatial severity index into the two 2SFCA models. We used 16,186 records of people living with disability experience to evaluate the methodological performance across 68 neighbourhoods of the city of Ahvaz, located in south-western Iran. The models’ performance were measured through correlation of the four accessibility scores with the distance to closest hospital for each neighbourhood centroid.

Results

Among the four models used to measure spatial accessibility, the E2SFCA integrated with the severity index displayed the best performance. Most people with disabilities lived in neighbourhoods located in the South-western and central areas of the city. Interestingly, south-western neighbourhoods had poor hospital accessibility score and were identified as unmet need areas for access to health services.

Conclusions

Inclusion of the severity factor in the E2SFCA improved access measurements. Identifying areas with poor levels of hospital accessibility can help policymakers design tailored interventions and improve accessibility to hospital-based care in urban settings for people living with disability.
A medical peer-delivered intervention comprising brief motivational interviewing via instant-messaging interaction to reduce drug misuse among youth in Hong Kong: A protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li William Ho Cheung , Xia Wei , Ho Laurie Long Kwan , Cheung Ankie Tan , Leong Queenie Kuai I. , Liang Tingna
Published: May 2021

Aims

Youth are frequently exposed to drugs, and most youth who misuse drugs are reluctant to seek help from services due to the worry of others being judgmental, lacking expertise, exposing their personal information, or informing their parents. Considering these concerns, we propose to evaluate the effectiveness of a medical peer-delivered intervention comprising brief motivational interviewing via instant-messaging interaction in reducing drug misuse among youth in Hong Kong.

Methods

A two-group single-blind, randomised controlled trial will be conducted. Multiple approaches, including online and face-to-face methods, will be used to recruit the participants. The participants, aged 25 years or younger and reporting any drugs that they have taken within the past 30 days, will be recruited and randomised to receive either brief motivational interviewing via interactive instant-messaging (the intervention) or general health text-messages (comparator). The primary outcome will be the change in the participants’ reductions in self-reported drug consumption at 12 months compared to that at baseline. The secondary outcomes will be the changes in the drug-abusing participants’ reductions in self-reported drug consumption at 6 months, the changes in the drug-quitting participants’ 6- and 12-month contemplation stages and relapse risk compared to that at baseline, 30 days’ self-reported drug abstinence at 6 and 12 months, and the treatment needs and motivation at 6 and 12 months compared to that at baseline. The effectiveness of the proposed intervention will be examined with adjusted regression models, with adjustment for baseline characteristics and the use of an intention-to‐treat approach.

Discussion

This proposed study will be the first randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a medical peer-delivered interactive intervention to reduce drug misuse among youth in Hong Kong. The proposed intervention has the potential to increase the help-seeking behaviour and intention to quit among youth who misuse drugs. As a result, more youth misusing drugs may be helped to abstain from drugs. This proposed study will inform decisions on whether it is worthwhile to invest resources in large-scale implementation of such an intervention.
Meanders as a scaling motif for understanding of floodplain soil microbiome and biogeochemical potential at the watershed scale
Authors: Matheus Carnevali Paula B. , Lavy Adi , Thomas Alex D. , Crits-Christoph Alexander , Diamond Spencer , Méheust Raphaël , Olm Matthew R. , Sharrar Allison , Lei Shufei , Dong Wenming , Falco Nicola , Bouskill Nicholas , Newcomer Michelle E. , Nico Peter , Wainwright Haruko , Dwivedi Dipankar , Williams Kenneth H. , Hubbard Susan , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: May 2021

Background

Biogeochemical exports from watersheds are modulated by the activity of microorganisms that function over micron scales. Here, we tested the hypothesis that meander-bound regions share a core microbiome and exhibit patterns of metabolic potential that broadly predict biogeochemical processes in floodplain soils along a river corridor.

Results

We intensively sampled the microbiomes of floodplain soils located in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the East River, Colorado. Despite the very high microbial diversity and complexity of the soils, we reconstructed 248 quality draft genomes representative of subspecies. Approximately one third of these bacterial subspecies was detected across all three locations at similar abundance levels, and ~ 15% of species were detected in two consecutive years. Within the meander-bound floodplains, we did not detect systematic patterns of gene abundance based on sampling position relative to the river. However, across meanders, we identified a core floodplain microbiome that is enriched in capacities for aerobic respiration, aerobic CO oxidation, and thiosulfate oxidation with the formation of elemental sulfur. Given this, we conducted a transcriptomic analysis of the middle floodplain. In contrast to predictions made based on the prominence of gene inventories, the most highly transcribed genes were relatively rare amoCAB and nxrAB (for nitrification) genes, followed by genes involved in methanol and formate oxidation, and nitrogen and CO2 fixation. Within all three meanders, low soil organic carbon correlated with high activity of genes involved in methanol, formate, sulfide, hydrogen, and ammonia oxidation, nitrite oxidoreduction, and nitrate and nitrite reduction. Overall, the results emphasize the importance of sulfur, one-carbon and nitrogen compound metabolism in soils of the riparian corridor.

Conclusions

The disparity between the scale of a microbial cell and the scale of a watershed currently limits the development of genomically informed predictive models describing watershed biogeochemical function. Meander-bound floodplains appear to serve as scaling motifs that predict aggregate capacities for biogeochemical transformations, providing a foundation for incorporating riparian soil microbiomes in watershed models. Widely represented genetic capacities did not predict in situ activity at one time point, but rather they define a reservoir of biogeochemical potential available as conditions change.
Identifying degenerative effects of repetitive head trauma with neuroimaging: a clinically-oriented review
Authors: Asken Breton M. , Rabinovici Gil D.
Published: May 2021

Background and Scope of Review

Varying severities and frequencies of head trauma may result in dynamic acute and chronic pathophysiologic responses in the brain. Heightened attention to long-term effects of head trauma, particularly repetitive head trauma, has sparked recent efforts to identify neuroimaging biomarkers of underlying disease processes. Imaging modalities like structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) are the most clinically applicable given their use in neurodegenerative disease diagnosis and differentiation. In recent years, researchers have targeted repetitive head trauma cohorts in hopes of identifying in vivo biomarkers for underlying biologic changes that might ultimately improve diagnosis of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in living persons. These populations most often include collision sport athletes (e.g., American football, boxing) and military veterans with repetitive low-level blast exposure. We provide a clinically-oriented review of neuroimaging data from repetitive head trauma cohorts based on structural MRI, FDG-PET, Aβ-PET, and tau-PET. We supplement the review with two patient reports of neuropathology-confirmed, clinically impaired adults with prior repetitive head trauma who underwent structural MRI, FDG-PET, Aβ-PET, and tau-PET in addition to comprehensive clinical examinations before death.

Review Conclusions

Group-level comparisons to controls without known head trauma have revealed inconsistent regional volume differences, with possible propensity for medial temporal, limbic, and subcortical (thalamus, corpus callosum) structures. Greater frequency and severity (i.e., length) of cavum septum pellucidum (CSP) is observed in repetitive head trauma cohorts compared to unexposed controls. It remains unclear whether CSP predicts a particular neurodegenerative process, but CSP presence should increase suspicion that clinical impairment is at least partly attributable to the individual’s head trauma exposure (regardless of underlying disease). PET imaging similarly has not revealed a prototypical metabolic or molecular pattern associated with repetitive head trauma or predictive of CTE based on the most widely studied radiotracers. Given the range of clinical syndromes and neurodegenerative pathologies observed in a subset of adults with prior repetitive head trauma, structural MRI and PET imaging may still be useful for differential diagnosis (e.g., assessing suspected Alzheimer’s disease).
Continuous intra-gastral monitoring of intra-abdominal pressure in critically ill children: a validation study
Authors: Kaussen T. , Gutting M. , Lasch F. , Boethig D. , von Gise A. , Dingemann J. , Koeditz H. , Jack T. , Sasse M. , Beerbaum P. , Boehne M.
Published: May 2021

Background

In critically ill children, detection of intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH > 10 mmHg) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS = IAH + organ dysfunction) is paramount and usually monitored through intra-vesical pressures (IVP) as current standard. IVP, however, carries important disadvantages, being time-consuming, discontinuous, with infection risk through observer-dependent manipulation, and ill-defined for catheter sizes. Therefore, we sought to validate air-capsule-based measurement of intra-gastric pressure (ACM-IGP).

Methods

We prospectively compared ACM-IGP with IVP both in vivo and in vitro (water column), according to Abdominal-Compartment-Society validation criteria. We controlled for patient age, admission diagnosis, gastric filling/propulsive medication, respiratory status, sedation levels and transurethral catheters, all influencing intra-abdominal pressure (IAP).

Results

In tertiary care PICU setting, finally, n = 97 children were enrolled (median age, 1.3 years [range 0 days–17 years], LOS-PICU 8.0 [1–332] days, PRISM-III-Score 13 [0–35]). In n = 2.770 measurements pairs, median IAP was 6.7 [0.9–23.0] mmHg, n = 38 (39%) children suffered from IAH > 10 mmHg, n = 4 from ACS. In vitro against water column, ACM-IGP correlated perfectly (r2 0.99, mean bias − 0.1 ± 0.5 mmHg, limits of agreement (LOA) − 1.1/+ 0.9, percentage error [PE] 12%) as compared with IVP (r2 0.98, bias + 0.7 ± 0.6 mmHg, LOA − 0.5/+ 1.9, PE 15%). With larger IVP catheters at higher pressure levels, IVP underestimated pressures against water column. In vivo, agreement between either technique was strong (r2 0.95, bias 0.3 ± 0.8 mmHg, LOA − 1.3/+ 1.9 mmHg, PE 23%). No impact of predefined control variables on measurement agreement was observed.

Conclusions

In a large PICU population with high IAH prevalence, ACM-IGP agreed favourably with IVP. More widespread usage of ACM-IGP may improve detection rates of ACS in critically ill children.

Trial registration WHO-ICTRP-No. DRKS00006556 (German Clinical Trial Register). Registered 12th September 2014, URL: https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00006556
Multidimensional diversity of bird communities across spatial variation of land cover in Zoige on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Xu Aichun , Zhong Maojun , Tang Ke , Wang Xiaoyi , Yang Chen , Xu Haigen , Yi Jianfeng , Liu Wei , Zhang Chunlan , Hu Junhua
Published: May 2021

Background

Spatial variation of land cover can result in the changes of community similarities and biotic homogenization, whereby the increasing similarity would reduce the adaptive capacity of biotic assemblages to further disturbance, and degenerate ecosystem services they offer. However, it remains scarce to integrate multidimensional diversity for unveiling how variations in land cover may influence the patterns and processes of biotic homogenization in the Anthropocene. In this study, we examined how spatial variation of land cover could alter taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional homogenization of bird communities simultaneously in a compound ecosystem of Zoige Marsh on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Acting as the largest alpine marsh and peatland in the world, Zoige Marsh has undergone great changes in the land cover pattern due to climate change and anthropogenic activities.

Methods

We conducted transect surveys for bird communities over six years (2014‒2019) during breeding seasons in four main land cover types (meadow, woodland, village and marsh), representing the spatial variation of land covers in the study area. We compared multidimensional diversity (taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional diversity) among land covers to assess the effects of spatial variation in land cover type on bird communities, particularly whether this variation has homogenized biotic communities.

Results

Bird communities during breeding seasons were different and complementary in the four land covers. Taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional similarities were significantly lower in meadow than in the other three types, i.e. woodland, village and marsh. However, when we controlled for the effects of taxonomic similarities, the pattern of phylogenetic similarities almost reversed, with the highest standardized effect size (SES) phylogenetic similarity in meadow; and we found no significant difference in SES functional similarity among land covers.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that spatial variation of land cover can play a crucial role in regulating multiple dimensions of bird diversity in Zoige Marsh. The findings indicate that taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional homogenization of bird communities may differently response to the variation of land covers. It thus highlights not only the relative roles of different land covers in maintaining biodiversity and community structures of birds, but also the urgency of retarding ecosystem degradations on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.
Lifestyle, exercise and activity package for people living with progressive multiple sclerosis (LEAP-MS): protocol for a single-arm feasibility study
Authors: Latchem-Hastings Julie , Randell Elizabeth , Button Kate , Jones Fiona , Lowe Rachel , Dawes Helen , Wood Fiona , Davies Freya , Poile Vincent , O’Halloran Rhian , Stensland Barbara , Tallantyre Emma , Playle Rebecca , Edwards Adrian , Busse Monica
Published: May 2021

Background

We have co-designed a tailored blended physiotherapy intervention for people with progressive multiple sclerosis (PwPMS) who often struggle to access support for physical activity. Underpinned by self-management principles, the Lifestyle, Exercise and Activity Package for people with Multiple Sclerosis (LEAP-MS) intervention incorporates face-to-face or online physiotherapy coaching sessions with an accompanying online physical activity platform. The LEAP-MS platform is a multi-user system enabling user and physiotherapist to co-create activity plans. The LEAP-MS platform consists of an information and activity suite, interactive components enabling selection of exercises into an activity programme, goal setting and activity logging. The platform also facilitates online remote support from a physiotherapist through an embedded online messaging function. We aim to evaluate the LEAP-MS platform in a feasibility trial.

Methods

LEAP-MS will be evaluated within a single-arm feasibility study with embedded process evaluation. After registration and initial eligible screening, 21 participants will be required to complete baseline self-completion measures. This will be followed by an initial home-based or online coaching session with a physiotherapist (who has received tailored self-management and digital resource training) and access to the online intervention for an initial 3-month period. During this period, participants are given the option to request up to five further home-based or online physiotherapy coaching sessions. Follow-up questionnaires and semi-structured interviews will be administered 3 months after baseline with participants and intervention physiotherapists. The LEAP-MS platform will be available to participants for a further 3 months. Usage of the LEAP-MS platform will be tracked during the full 6-month period and final follow-up will be conducted 6 months after baseline.

Discussion

Feasibility outcomes (recruitment, retention, intervention uptake and safety) will be reported. The process evaluation will be undertaken to identify possible mechanisms for any observed effects. The data will inform full-scale evaluations of this co-produced, blended physiotherapy intervention.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03951181. Registered 15 May 2019
Up-regulated RFC2 predicts unfavorable progression in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ji Zaixiong , Li Jiaqi , Wang Jianbo
Published: May 2021

Background

Replication factor C (RFC) is closely related to tumor progression and metastasis. However, the functional significance of RFC2 in hepatocellular carcinoma remains unclear.

Materials and methods

In order to solve this problem, the expression of RFC2 in liver cancer patients was analyzed through ONCOMINE, UALCAN, Human Protein Atlas. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan–Meier plotter and GEPIA. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were carried out. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was performed through Metascape. Western blotting, cell counting kit-8 and transwell assay were used to detect the effect of RFC2 on cell proliferation and migration.

Results

The transcription and protein level of RFC2 in HCC were overexpressed, which was significantly related to the clinical individual cancer stage and pathological tumor grade of HCC patients. In addition, in patients with liver cancer, higher RFC2 expression was found to be significantly correlated with shorter OS and DFS. Furthermore, the function of RFC2 in liver cancer was DNA replication, and its main mechanism was the phase transition of the cell cycle. Biological experiments demonstrated that knockdown of RFC2 reduced the proliferation and migration of HCC cells.

Conclusion

RFC2 might promote the development of liver cancer, which might be achieved by regulating cell cycle and DNA replication. It could be used as a novel biomarker for the prognosis of liver cancer.
The value of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE PET/CT in diagnosis and management of suspected pituitary tumors
Authors: Novruzov Fuad , Aliyev Aziz , Wan Ming Young S. , Syed Rizwan , Mehdi Elnur , Aliyeva Irada , Giammarile Francesco , Bomanji Jamshed B. , Kayani Irfan
Published: May 2021

Background

Gallium 68-tetraazacyclododecane-tetraacetic acid-octreotate ([68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE) is a selective somatostatin analogue ligand, which shows increased affinity for somatostatin receptor subtype (SSTR) 2 and has been used routinely for imaging neuroendocrine tumors with PET/CT. We investigated the utility of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in patients with suspected pituitary pathology. We reviewed imaging for twenty consecutive patients (8 men, 12 women, mean age of 48.2, range 14–78) with suspected pituitary pathology who were referred for [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE PET/CT.

Results

Nine patients presented with recurrent Cushing’s syndrome following surgical resection of pituitary adenomas due to recurrent Cushing’s disease (seven patients) and ectopic ACTH secreting tumor (2 patients). All seven patients with recurrent Cushing’s disease showed positive pituitary [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE uptake while both cases of ectopic hormonal secretion had absented pituitary uptake. In 1 of these 2 patients, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE was able to localize the source of ectopic ACTH tumor.

Six patients presented de novo with Cushing’s due to ectopic ACTH secretion; [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE PET/CT was able to localize ectopic tumors in six of eight patients (3 lungs, 2 pancreases, 1 mid-gut)

There was high uptake [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE in 3 cases of recurrent central hyperthyroidism (SUVmax 6.6–14.3) and 2 cases of prolactinoma (SUVmax 5.5 and 11.3).

Conclusion

Absent [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE activity in the pituitary fossa is useful in excluding pituitary disease in recurrent Cushing’s. Recurrent pituitary thyrotropinomas and prolactinomas showed moderate to high pituitary activity. In addition, in Cushing’s syndrome, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE is useful for detection of ectopic sources of ACTH production, especially where anatomic imaging is negative.
Derivation, characterization, and in vitro cell regeneration of canine white adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells obtained from a mesenteric region
Authors: Mandal Anirban , Jha Ajeet Kumar , Biswas Dew , Guha Shyamal Kanti
Published: May 2021

Background

The study was conducted to assess the characterization, differentiation, and in vitro cell regeneration potential of canine mesenteric white adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs). The tissue was harvested through surgical incision and digested with collagenase to obtain a stromal vascular fraction. Mesenchymal stem cells isolated from the stromal vascular fraction were characterized through flow cytometry and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Assessment of cell viability, in vitro cell regeneration, and cell senescence were carried out through MTT assay, wound healing assay, and β-galactosidase assay, respectively. To ascertain the trilineage differentiation potential, MSCs were stained with alizarin red for osteocytes, alcian blue for chondrocytes, and oil o red for adipocytes. In addition, differentiated cells were characterized through a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

Results

We observed the elongated, spindle-shaped, and fibroblast-like appearance of cells after 72 h of initial culture. Flow cytometry results showed positive expression for CD44, CD90, and negative expression for CD45 surface markers. Population doubling time was found 18–24 h for up to the fourth passage and 30±0.5 h for the fifth passage. A wound-healing assay was used to determine cell migration rate which was found 136.9 ± 4.7 μm/h. We observed long-term in vitro cell proliferation resulted in MSC senescence. Furthermore, we also found that the isolated cells were capable of differentiating into osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic lineages.

Conclusions

Mesenteric white adipose tissue was found to be a potential source for isolation, characterization, and differentiation of MSCs. This study might be helpful for resolving the problems regarding the paucity of information concerning the basic biology of stem cells. The large-scale use of AD-MSCs might be a remedial measure in regenerative medicine.
Uranium contamination of milk from cattle in the uranium-mining area in Siavonga District of Zambia: a preliminary human health risk assessment
Authors: Haakonde Titus , Yabe John , Choongo Kennedy , Chongwe Gershom , Nchima Gilbert , Islam Md. Saiful
Published: May 2021

Background

Contamination of cow milk with uranium (U) is attracting global attention owing to U’s radio-toxicity and chemical toxicity in humans and animals. Concentrations of U in 223 cow milk samples from indigenous breeds reared in the proximity of a U mine in Zambia were measured using the inductively coupled mass spectrometry, and the human health risks from exposure to U through milk consumption were assessed.

Results

Milk from cattle reared in the U-mining area showed a significantly higher U-mean concentration (0.83 ± 0.64 µg/L; t = 9.95; tα = 0.05, p > 0.05) than milk from cattle reared in the non-mining area (0.08 µg/L ± 0.05). Among the residents of the U-mining area, the mean estimated daily intake (EDI), the target hazard quotients (THQs) and the target carcinogenic risks (TCRs) were all significantly (p < 0.05) elevated than among the residents of the non-mining area.

Conclusions

Since the EDIs, THQs and TCRs and the U level in the cow milk were all within the World Health Organization’s and the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s permissible limits of 0.6 µg/kg-bw/day, < 1, < 10–4 and 30 µg/L, respectively. The current study, therefore, has insufficient evidence to implicate U exposure through consumption of cow milk in any non-carcinogenic or carcinogenic human health complications that are currently prevailing in the study area.

Graphic abstract
Flow cytometry evaluation of CD14/CD16 monocyte subpopulations in systemic sclerosis patients: a cross sectional controlled study
Authors: Schneider Laiana , Marcondes Natália Aydos , Hax Vanessa , da Silva Moreira Isadora Flesch , Ueda Carolina Yuka , Piovesan Rafaella Romeiro , Xavier Ricardo , Chakr Rafael
Published: May 2021

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis, which can be subclassified into diffuse cutaneous (dSSc) and limited cutaneous (lSSc) subtypes. Previous studies suggest that an increase in monocytes can be a hallmark of various inflammatory diseases, including SSc. Our aim was to evaluate circulating blood monocyte subpopulations (classical, intermediate and non-classical) of SSc patients and their possible association with disease manifestations.

Methods

Fifty consecutive patients fulfilling the 2013 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for SSc were included in a cross-sectional study. Monocyte subpopulations were identified based on their expression of CD64, CD14 and CD16, evaluated by flow cytometry, and were correlated with the clinical characteristics of the patients; furthermore, the expression of HLA-DR, CD163, CD169 and CD206 in the monocytes was studied. Thirty-eight age- and sex-matched healthy individuals were recruited as a control group.

Results

SSc patients had an increased number of circulating peripheral blood monocytes with an activated phenotypic profile compared to healthy subjects. Absolute counts of CD16+ (intermediary and non-classical) monocyte subpopulations were higher in SSc patients. There was no association between monocyte subpopulations and the clinical manifestations evaluated.

Conclusion

We identified higher counts of all monocyte subpopulations in SSc patients compared to the control group. There was no association between monocyte subpopulations and major fibrotic manifestations. CD169 was shown to be more representative in dSSc, being a promising marker for differentiating disease subtypes.
Development and validation of portable, field-deployable Ebola virus point-of-encounter diagnostic assay for wildlife surveillance
Authors: Figueroa Dania M. , Kuisma Eeva , Matson M. Jeremiah , Ondzie Alain U. , Bushmaker Trent , Seifert Stephanie N. , Ntoumi Francine , Escudero-Pérez Beatriz , Muñoz-Fontela César , Walzer Chris , Olson Sarah H. , Goma-Nkoua Cynthia , Mombouli Jean-Vivien , Fischer Robert J. , Munster Vincent J.
Published: May 2021

Early detection of Ebola virus spillover into wildlife is crucial for rapid response. We developed and validated a portable, cold-chain independent Ebola virus RT-qPCR assay.

Methods

The field syringe-based RNA extraction method was compared with a conventional laboratory-based spin-column RNA extraction method. Next, the qPCR efficiency and limit of detection of the assay was compared to standard laboratory-based reagents and equipment. The specificity of the assay was confirmed by testing against multiple Zaire Ebolavirus (EBOV) variants and other ebolavirus species. Lastly, swabs from an EBOV-infected non-human primate carcass, stored at environmental conditions mimicking central and west Africa, were analyzed to mimic in field conditions.

Results

The syringe-based RNA extraction method performed comparably to a standard laboratory spin-column-based method. The developed assay was comparable in sensitivity and specificity to standard laboratory-based diagnostic assays. The assay specifically detected EBOV and not any of the other tested ebolavirus species, including Reston ebolavirus, Sudan ebolavirus, Bundibugyo ebolavirus, and Tai Forrest ebolavirus. Notably, the assays limit of detection for EBOV isolates were all below 4 genome copies/μL. The assay was able to detect EBOV in oral, nasal, thoracic cavity, and conjunctiva swabs obtained from an infected non-human primate.

Conclusion

We developed a field-based Ebolavirus assay which is comparable in sensitivity and specificity to laboratory-based assays. Currently, the assay is being incorporated into wildlife carcass surveillance in the Republic of the Congo and is being adapted for other infectious disease agents.
Dietary practices and gender dynamics: understanding the role of women
Authors: Das Suraj , Mishra Anindya J.
Published: May 2021

The culturally embedded habitus forms esthetic sensibilities; that is, the culture of a specific community group is internalized through the process of socialization. Habitus extends to our sense of taste for cultural objects such as art, food, and clothing. In a traditional society like in India, the family is an institution with norms and values attached to it. Furthermore, it is a woman who usually cooks in a traditional society. Therefore, the sociocultural belief system and customs play a crucial role in shaping dietary practices. Hence, discussing the choices and decisions that women make related to food could unravel the gender dimensions. Exploring the dynamics of gender could help policymakers, legislators, and other stakeholders to adopt an integrated approach to amalgamate the element of inclusivity while framing the schemes and policies related to food security. The present study has used the QDA Miner Lite software for the grounded theory approach to conclude that women are the center of food choices. Moreover, food selection depends upon religious inclinations, the belief system, relative position and status in society, cultural traditions and customary laws, etc.
Intratracheal inoculation of human varicella zoster virus (VZV; MAV strain) vaccine successfully induced VZV IgG antibodies in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Kim Jong-Min , Park Chung-Gyu
Published: May 2021

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate whether the use of live attenuated varicella zoster virus (VZV) MAV vaccination can efficiently induce VZV antibody production in naive rhesus monkeys as an approach to prevent simian varicella virus (SVV) reactivation in animals immunosuppressed for transplantation studies.

Results

Clinically available human VZV vaccine was used to induce the production of anti-VZV antibodies in rhesus monkeys. A vial of the vaccine was subcutaneously injected at 0 week, and the second and third vaccination was performed at 5 and 6 weeks by intratracheal inoculation. The titer of anti-VZV IgG was assessed at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 7 weeks. At 2 weeks, 3/16 were seropositive for VZV IgG. At 6 weeks, 9/16 were shown to be seropositive. At 7 weeks, 16/16 were found to be seropositive.

Conclusions

The VZV vaccine via intratrachael inoculation was shown to induce VZV IgG humoral immunity in rhesus monkeys and may be important immunosuppressed macaques for transplantation studies. Although the humoral immunity produced is an important finding, further studies will be necessary to confirm possible protection and it could protect probably against SVV infection in rhesus monkey.
Prediction of nipple-areolar complex involvement by breast cancer: role of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI)
Authors: EL-Adalany Mohamed Ali , EL-Razek Ahmed Abd El-Khalek Abd , EL-Metwally Dina
Published: May 2021

Background

Skin-sparing and nipple-sparing mastectomies were considered as alternative techniques for modified radical mastectomy. In patients who are candidates for nipple-sparing mastectomy, preoperative assessment of the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is essential for adequate surgical planning. Breast MRI is highly sensitive for cancer detection and has an important role in disease staging. The aim of this study was to estimate the role of DCE-MRI in predicting malignant NAC invasion by underlying breast cancer and assess the best predictors on MRI that can suspect malignant NAC invasion.

Results

Out of the 125 patients with breast cancer, 33 patients (26.4%) showed malignant NAC invasion. On basis of multivariate analysis, abnormal nipple enhancement, tumor nipple enhancement, tumor nipple distance ≤ 2 cm, and abnormal and asymmetric nipple morphology were all significant predictors of malignant NAC invasion (P < 0.001) with abnormal unilateral nipple enhancement as the most important independent MRI predictor of malignant NAC invasion (odds ratio = 61.07, 95% CI 12.81–291.22, P < 0.001). When combining more than positive suspicious MRI features, DCE-MRI had 66.6% sensitivity, 76% specificity, 50% PPV, 86.4% NPV, and 73.6% accuracy in prediction of malignant NAC invasion.

Conclusion

DCE-MRI could predict malignant NAC invasion with abnormal unilateral nipple enhancement as the most important independent MRI predictor.
Implementation determinants and mechanisms for the prevention and treatment of adolescent HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: concept mapping of the NIH Fogarty International Center Adolescent HIV Implementation Science Alliance (AHISA) initiative
Authors: Aarons Gregory A. , Reeder Kendal , Sam-Agudu Nadia A. , Vorkoper Susan , Sturke Rachel
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Adolescent HIV prevention and treatment is a high priority for youth healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

This study employed concept mapping to identify factors that impact the implementation of HIV prevention and intervention programs for adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. Key stakeholders including researchers, policymakers, and non-governmental organization (NGO) personnel constituting membership of the NIH-sponsored Adolescent HIV Prevention and Treatment Implementation Science Alliance responded to the question: “In your experience, what factors have facilitated or hindered implementation of evidence-based HIV prevention or treatment for adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa?” Participants generated statements in response to the focus question, sorted them into thematically relevant groups, and rated each statement on its importance and changeability.

Results

Through data analyses and participant feedback, 15 distinct themes were derived. “Workforce/Workflow” and “HIV Stigma and Adolescent Development” were rated highest for importance, and “Threshold Conditions for Treatment” and “Structure of Implementation Efforts” were rated most changeable.

Conclusions

Understanding implementation science determinants and mechanisms can facilitate the uptake of successful implementation and sustainment strategies for the prevention and treatment of HIV in a given context. We placed determinants and mechanisms within the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework to provide greater contextual integration with broader theories in implementation science. Implementers across multiple disciplines can use these findings to improve the scale-up of evidence-based practices for adolescent HIV prevention and treatment in sub-Saharan Africa. Implementation approaches that consider the determinants and mechanisms identified in this study and integrated in implementation frameworks will likely have utility for other health conditions and contexts.
Evaluation of multi-level barriers and facilitators in a large diabetic retinopathy screening program in federally qualified health centers: a qualitative study
Authors: Bastos de Carvalho Ana , Lee Ware S. , Belcher Tamara , Mehmeti Franceska , Higgins Eric B. , Sprang Rob , Williams Cody , Studts Jamie L. , Studts Christina R.
Published: May 2021

Background

Recommended annual diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening for people with diabetes has low rates in the USA, especially in underserved populations. Telemedicine DR screening (TDRS) in primary care clinics could expand access and increase adherence. Despite this potential, studies have observed high variability in TDRS rates among clinics and over time, highlighting the need for implementation supports. Previous studies of determinants of TDRS focus on patients’ perspectives, with few studies targeting upstream multi-level barriers and facilitators. Addressing this gap, this qualitative study aimed to identify and evaluate multi-level perceived determinants of TDRS in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), to inform the development of targeted implementation strategies.

Methods

We developed a theory-based semi-structured interview tool based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). We conducted 22 key informant interviews with professionals involved in TDRS (administrators, clinicians, staff). The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Reported barriers and facilitators were organized into emergent themes and classified according to CFIR constructs. Constructs influencing TDRS implementation were rated for each study site and compared across sites by the investigators.

Results

Professionals identified 21 main barriers and facilitators under twelve constructs of the five CFIR domains. Several identified themes were novel, whereas others corroborated previous findings in the literature (e.g., lack of time and human resources, presence of a champion). Of the 21 identified themes, 13 were classified under the CFIR’s Inner Setting domain, specifically under the constructs Compatibility and Available Resources. Themes under the Outer Setting domain (constructs External Incentives and Cost) were primarily perceived by administrators, whereas themes in other domains were perceived across all professional categories. Two Inner Setting (Leadership Engagement, Goals and Feedback) and two Process (Champion, Engaging) constructs were found to strongly distinguish sites with high versus low TDRS performance.

Conclusions

This study classified barriers and facilitators to TDRS as perceived by administrators, clinicians, and staff in FQHCs, then identified CFIR constructs that distinguished high- and low-performance clinics. Implementation strategies such as academic detailing and collection and communication of program data and successes to leadership; engaging of stakeholders through involvement in implementation planning; and appointment of intervention champions may therefore improve TDRS implementation and sustainment in resource-constrained settings.
Maternal Plasma Lipids During Pregnancy, Insulin-like Growth Factor-1, and Excess Fetal Growth
Authors: Chen Kuan-Yu , Lin Shin-Yu , Lee Chien-Nan , Wu Hung-Tsung , Kuo Ching-Hua , Kuo Han-Chun , Chuang Chia-Chi , Kuo Chun-Heng , Chen Szu-Chi , Fan Kang-Chih , Lin Ming-Wei , Fang Chi-Tai , Li Hung-Yuan
Published: May 2021

Context

Maternal lipids during pregnancy and placental growth factors are associated with excess fetal growth. However, how these factors interact to increase the risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age (LGA) neonates remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the relationship between maternal plasma triglycerides (TGs) and free fatty acids (FFAs) during pregnancy, cord blood insulin-like growth factors (IGF), and LGA.

Objective

In a cell model, we studied the effect of different FAs on placental IGF-1 secretion.

Methods

This cohort study included pregnant women with term pregnancy and without diabetes or hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. Maternal fasting plasma TGs and FFAs were measured in the second trimester. Cord blood IGF-1, IGF-2, and IGF binding protein-1 and protein-3 were measured at the time of delivery. A human trophoblast cell line, 3A-sub-E, was used to evaluate the effect of different FFAs on placental IGF-1 secretion.

Results

We recruited 598 pregnant women–neonate pairs. Maternal plasma TG (180 mg/dL [152.5-185.5 mg/dL] vs 166 mg/dL [133-206 mg/dL], P = .04) and cord blood IGF-1 concentrations (72.7 ± 23.0 vs 54.1 ± 22.8 ng/mL, P < .001) were higher in the LGA group and were significantly associated with birth weight z score. Maternal plasma free palmitic acid (PA) and stearic acid (SA), but not oleic acid (OA) or linoleic acid (LA), were significantly associated with cord blood IGF-1 concentrations. In 3A-sub-E cells, treatment with PA, SA, and LA, but not OA, induced IGF-1 expression and secretion.

Conclusion

Certain FFAs can induce placental IGF-1 secretion, which suggests a potential pathophysiology linking maternal plasma lipids and LGA.