bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the future of peer review automated?
Authors: Schulz Robert , Barnett Adrian , Bernard René , Brown Nicholas J. L. , Byrne Jennifer A. , Eckmann Peter , Gazda Małgorzata A. , Kilicoglu Halil , Prager Eric M. , Salholz-Hillel Maia , ter Riet Gerben , Vines Timothy , Vorland Colby J. , Zhuang Han , Bandrowski Anita , Weissgerber Tracey L.
Published: June 2022

The rising rate of preprints and publications, combined with persistent inadequate reporting practices and problems with study design and execution, have strained the traditional peer review system. Automated screening tools could potentially enhance peer review by helping authors, journal editors, and reviewers to identify beneficial practices and common problems in preprints or submitted manuscripts. Tools can screen many papers quickly, and may be particularly helpful in assessing compliance with journal policies and with straightforward items in reporting guidelines. However, existing tools cannot understand or interpret the paper in the context of the scientific literature. Tools cannot yet determine whether the methods used are suitable to answer the research question, or whether the data support the authors’ conclusions. Editors and peer reviewers are essential for assessing journal fit and the overall quality of a paper, including the experimental design, the soundness of the study’s conclusions, potential impact and innovation. Automated screening tools cannot replace peer review, but may aid authors, reviewers, and editors in improving scientific papers. Strategies for responsible use of automated tools in peer review may include setting performance criteria for tools, transparently reporting tool performance and use, and training users to interpret reports.
Intramyocardial injected human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HucMSCs) contribute to the recovery of cardiac function and the migration of CD4+ T cells into the infarcted heart via CCL5/CCR5 signaling
Authors: Liu Jing , Liang Xiaoting , Li Mimi , Lin Fang , Ma Xiaoxue , Xin Yuanfeng , Meng Qingshu , Zhuang Rulin , Zhang Qingliu , Han Wei , Gao Ling , He Zhiying , Zhou Xiaohui , Liu Zhongmin
Published: June 2022

Background

Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HucMSCs) have been recognized as a promising cell for treating myocardial infarction (MI). Inflammatory response post MI is critical in determining the cardiac function and subsequent adverse left ventricular remodeling. However, the local inflammatory effect of HucMSCs after intramyocardial injection in murine remains unclear.

Methods

HucMSCs were cultured and transplanted into the mice after MI surgery. Cardiac function of mice were analyzed among MI-N.S, MI-HucMSC and MI-HucMSC-C–C Motif Chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) antagonist groups, and angiogenesis, fibrosis and hypertrophy, and immune cells infiltration of murine hearts were evaluated between MI-N.S and MI-HucMSC groups. We detected the expression of inflammatory cytokines and their effects on CD4+T cells migration.

Results

HucMSCs treatment can significantly improve the cardiac function and some cells can survive at least 28 days after MI. Intramyocardial administration of HucMSCs also improved angiogenesis and alleviated cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy. Moreover, we found the much higher numbers of CD4+T cells and CD4+FoxP3+regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the heart with HucMSCs than that with N.S treatment on day 7 post MI. In addition, the protein level of C–C Motif Chemokine Ligand 5 (CCL5) greatly increased in HucMSCs treated heart compared to MI-N.S group. In vitro, HucMSCs inhibited CD4+T cells migration and addition of CCL5 antibody or CCR5 antagonist significantly reversed this effect. In vivo results further showed that addition of CCR5 antagonist can reduce the cardioprotective effect of HucMSCs administration on day 7 post MI injury.

Conclusion

These findings indicated that HucMSCs contributed to cardiac functional recovery and attenuated cardiac remodeling post MI. Intramyocardial injection of HucMSCs upregulated the CD4+FoxP3+Tregs and contributed to the migration of CD4+T cells into the injured heart via CCL5/CCR5 pathway.
Adipose-derived stromal cells increase the formation of collagens through paracrine and juxtacrine mechanisms in a fibroblast co-culture model utilizing macromolecular crowding
Authors: Søndergaard Rebekka Harary , Højgaard Lisbeth Drozd , Reese-Petersen Alexander Lynge , Hoeeg Cecilie , Mathiasen Anders Bruun , Haack-Sørensen Mandana , Follin Bjarke , Genovese Federica , Kastrup Jens , Juhl Morten , Ekblond Annette
Published: June 2022

Background

Adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) possess a multitude of regenerative capabilities, which include immunomodulation, angiogenesis, and stimulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. However, the underlying mechanisms leading to ECM remodeling remain largely elusive and highlight the need for functional in vitro models for mode of action studies. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop an in vitro co-culture model to investigate the capabilities of ASCs to modulate fibroblasts and ECM.

Methods

An ECM in vitro model with ASCs and normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) was established utilizing macromolecular crowding, ascorbic acid, and TGF-β stimulation. Paracrine and juxtacrine co-cultures were created using transwell inserts and cell cultures with direct cell–cell contacts. The cultures were screened using RT2 PCR Profiler Arrays; the protein levels of myofibroblast differentiation marker alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and ECM remodeling enzymes were analyzed using western blot on cell lysates; the formation of collagen type I, III, VI, and fibronectin was investigated using ELISA on culture supernatants; and the deposition of collagens was analyzed using immunocytochemistry.

Results

TGF-β stimulation of NHDF monocultures increased the expression of 18 transcripts relevant for ECM formation and remodeling, the protein levels of αSMA and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), the formation of collagen type I, III, VI, and fibronectin, and the deposition of collagen type I and VI and decreased the protein levels of MMP-14. Inclusion of ASCs in the ECM co-culture model increased the formation of collagen type I and III through paracrine mechanisms and the formation of collagen type VI through juxtacrine mechanisms.

Conclusions

The co-culture model provides effective stimulation of NHDF monocultures by TGF-β for enhanced formation and deposition of ECM. In the model, ASCs induce changes in ECM by increasing formation of collagen type I, III and VI. The obtained results could guide further investigations of ASCs’ capabilities and underlying mechanisms related to ECM formation and remodeling.
Fbxw11 impairs the repopulation capacity of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells
Authors: Wang Lina , Piao Yongjun , Zhang Dongyue , Feng Wenli , Wang Chenchen , Cui Xiaoxi , Ren Qian , Zhu Xiaofan , Zheng Guoguang
Published: June 2022

Background

The ubiquitin–proteasome system plays important roles in maintaining the self-renewal and differentiation of stem and progenitor cells through highly ordered degradation of cellular proteins. Fbxw11, an E3 ligase, participates in many important biological processes by targeting a broad range of proteins. However, its roles in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) have not been established.

Methods

In this study, the effects of Fbxw11 on HSPCs were studied in vitro and in vivo by an overexpression strategy. Real-time PCR was performed to detect the expression of Fbxw11 in hematopoietic subpopulations. Colony-forming assays were performed to evaluate the in vitro function of Fbxw11 on HSPCs. Hoechst 33342 and Ki67 staining was performed to determine the cell-cycle distribution of HSPCs. Competitive transplantation experiments were used to evaluate the effect of Fbxw11 on the reconstitution potential of HSPCs. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was employed to reveal the transcriptomic alterations in HSPCs.

Results

The expression of Fbxw11 was higher in Lin−c-Kit+Sca-1+ (LSK) cells and myeloid progenitors than in lymphoid progenitors. Fbxw11 played negative roles in colony-forming and quiescence maintenance of HSPCs in vitro. Furthermore, serial competitive transplantation experiments revealed that Fbxw11 impaired the repopulation capacity of HSPCs. The proportion of granulocytes (Gr-1+CD11b+) in the differentiated mature cells was significantly higher than that in the control group, T cells and B cells were lower. Moreover, scRNA-seq revealed seven cell clusters in HSPCs. In addition, Fbxw11 downregulated the expression of Cebpa, Myc and Arid5b, which are significant regulators of HSPC activity, in most cell clusters.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that Fbxw11 plays a negative role in the maintenance of HSPCs in vitro and repopulation capacity in vivo. Our data also provide valuable transcriptome references for HSPCs in homeostasis.
Nk3R blockade has sex-divergent effects on memory in mice
Authors: Florido Antonio , Moreno Estefanía , Canela Enric I. , Andero Raül
Published: June 2022

Background

Memory consolidation is a process required for the formation of long-term memories. The G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) neurokinin-3-receptor (Nk3R) and its interactions with sex hormones seem important for the modulation of fear memory consolidation: Nk3R antagonism in male mice impairs fear memory, but enhances it in females. However, the involvement of the Nk3R as a modulator of other memories in both sexes remains unexplored.

Methods

We use the novel object recognition paradigm to test the effect of a systemic blockade of Nk3R during memory consolidation. Further, we assess the expression of estrogen receptor α, estrogen receptor β, and androgen receptor and heterodimerization with Nk3R in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and dorsal hippocampus (DH) of mice.

Results

Nk3R systemic antagonism elicited decreased memory consolidation in males while it enhanced it in females during proestrus. Nk3R analysis in the different subregions of the mPFC and the DH showed a higher expression in males than females. Moreover, females presented upregulation of the androgen receptor in the CA1 and the estrogen receptor beta in the cingulate cortex, CA1, and dentate gyrus. Overall, males presented an upregulation of the estrogen receptor alpha. We also explored the heterodimerization of GCPR membrane sex hormone receptors with the Nk3R. We found a higher percentage of Nk3R-membrane G-protein estrogen receptors heterodimers in the prelimbic cortex of the mPFC in females, suggesting an interaction of estradiol with Nk3R in memory consolidation. However, males presented a higher percentage of Nk3R-membrane G-protein androgen receptors heterodimers compared to females, pointing to an interaction of testosterone with Nk3R in memory consolidation.

Conclusion

These data propose novel ideas on functional interactions between Nk3R, sex hormones, estrogen receptors, and androgen receptors in memory consolidation.
PhenoDEF: a corpus for annotating sentences with information of phenotype definitions in biomedical literature
Authors: Binkheder Samar , Wu Heng-Yi , Quinney Sara K. , Zhang Shijun , Zitu Md. Muntasir , Chiang Chien‐Wei , Wang Lei , Jones Josette , Li Lang
Published: June 2022

Background

Adverse events induced by drug-drug interactions are a major concern in the United States. Current research is moving toward using electronic health record (EHR) data, including for adverse drug events discovery. One of the first steps in EHR-based studies is to define a phenotype for establishing a cohort of patients. However, phenotype definitions are not readily available for all phenotypes. One of the first steps of developing automated text mining tools is building a corpus. Therefore, this study aimed to develop annotation guidelines and a gold standard corpus to facilitate building future automated approaches for mining phenotype definitions contained in the literature. Furthermore, our aim is to improve the understanding of how these published phenotype definitions are presented in the literature and how we annotate them for future text mining tasks.

Results

Two annotators manually annotated the corpus on a sentence-level for the presence of evidence for phenotype definitions. Three major categories (inclusion, intermediate, and exclusion) with a total of ten dimensions were proposed characterizing major contextual patterns and cues for presenting phenotype definitions in published literature. The developed annotation guidelines were used to annotate the corpus that contained 3971 sentences: 1923 out of 3971 (48.4%) for the inclusion category, 1851 out of 3971 (46.6%) for the intermediate category, and 2273 out of 3971 (57.2%) for exclusion category. The highest number of annotated sentences was 1449 out of 3971 (36.5%) for the “Biomedical & Procedure” dimension. The lowest number of annotated sentences was 49 out of 3971 (1.2%) for “The use of NLP”. The overall percent inter-annotator agreement was 97.8%. Percent and Kappa statistics also showed high inter-annotator agreement across all dimensions.

Conclusions

The corpus and annotation guidelines can serve as a foundational informatics approach for annotating and mining phenotype definitions in literature, and can be used later for text mining applications.
Inclusion of a dual signal sequence enhances the immunogenicity of a novel viral vectored vaccine against the capsular group B meningococcus
Authors: Sheerin Dylan , Dold Christina , Silva-Reyes Laura , Linder Aline , Pollard Andrew J. , Rollier Christine S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Disease caused by the capsular group B meningococcus (MenB) is the leading cause of infectious death in UK infants. A novel adenovirus-based vaccine encoding the MenB factor H binding protein (fHbp) with an N-terminal dual signal sequence induces high titres of protective antibody after a single dose in mice. A panel of N-terminal signal sequence variants were created to assess the contribution of components of this sequence to transgene expression kinetics of the encoded antigen from mammalian cells and the resultant effect on immunogenicity of fHbp.

Results

The full-length signal sequence (FL SS) resulted in superior early antigen expression compared with the panel of variants, as measured by flow cytometry and confocal imaging, and supported higher bactericidal antibody levels against the expressed antigen in mouse sera < 6 weeks post-immunisation than the licensed four component MenB vaccine. The FL SS also significantly increased antigen-specific T cell responses against other adenovirus-encoded bacterial antigens in mice.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that the FL SS enhances immunogenicity of the encoded antigen, supporting its inclusion in other viral vectored bacterial antigen transgenes.
Targeted faith-based and faith-placed interventions for noncommunicable disease prevention and control in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Odukoya Oluwakemi Ololade , Jeet Gursimer , Adebusoye Busola , Idowu Oluwaseun , Ogunsola Folasade Tolulope , Okuyemi Kolawole S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear a disproportionately high burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) with severe socioeconomic consequences. Targeted interventions that are faith-based or take place in faith-based settings are historically viable for health promotion and disease prevention programmes. However, evidence of their effectiveness often comes from high-income countries. This paper outlines the protocol for the systematic review of faith-based and faith-placed interventions for NCDs in low- and middle-income countries.

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of faith-based and faith-placed interventions or interventions within faith-based settings targeted at NCDs and/or their risk factors in LMICs.

Methods

We will conduct a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, WHO Library, and grey literature to locate published and unpublished studies. We will consider quantitative studies that report on interventions (a) with faith-based components or that take place in faith-based settings (b) for the prevention and control of one or more of the top ten NCDs listed in the Global Burden of Disease or their known risk factors (c) occurring among adults aged 18 and above (d) that take place in one or more LMICs.

We will screen the titles, abstracts, and full text of articles for eligibility. Included articles will be critically appraised for quality and the inclusion of faith-based components by at least two independent reviewers. Data extraction will be performed for study characteristics and findings. A meta-analysis will be used to synthesize the results; if impossible, a narrative synthesis will be performed.

Discussion

This review will attempt to synthesize up-to-date evidence to guide effective decision-making, allocation of health resources, and the design of future trials to test the efficacy of NCD interventions in faith-based settings. The study will increase the understanding of the existing evidence, highlight the need for additional evidence, and guide possible directions for future collaborations between public health professionals and faith-based health service providers.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42020186299
Using the Hilfer–Katugampola fractional derivative in initial-value Mathieu fractional differential equations with application to a particle in the plane
Authors: Berhail Amel , Tabouche Nora , Alzabut Jehad , Samei Mohammad Esmael
Published: June 2022

We examine a class of nonlinear fractional Mathieu equations with a damping term. The equation is an important equation of mathematical physics as it has many applications in various fields of the physical sciences. By utilizing Schauder’s fixed-point theorem, the existence arises of solutions for the proposed equation with the Hilfer–Katugampola fractional derivative, and an application is additionally examined. Two examples guarantee the obtained results.
Quantifying relations between altered hydrology and fish community responses for streams in Minnesota
Authors: Ziegeweid Jeffrey R. , Johnson Gregory D. , Krall Aliesha L. , Fitzpatrick Kara , Levin Sara B.
Published: June 2022

Background

Altered hydrology is a stressor on aquatic life, but quantitative relations between specific aspects of streamflow alteration and biological responses have not been developed on a statewide scale in Minnesota. Best subsets regression analysis was used to develop linear regression models that quantify relations among five categories of hydrologic metrics (i.e., duration, frequency, magnitude, rate-of-change, and timing) computed from streamgage records and six categories of biological metrics (i.e., composition, habitat, life history, reproductive, tolerance, trophic) computed from fish-community samples, as well as fish-based indices of biotic integrity (FIBI) scores and FIBI scores normalized to an impairment threshold of the corresponding stream class (FIBI_BCG4). Relations between hydrology and fish community responses were examined using three hydrologic datasets that represented periods of record, long-term changes, and short-term changes to flow regimes in streams of Minnesota.

Results

Regression models demonstrated significant relations between hydrologic explanatory metrics and fish-based biological response metrics, and the five regression models with the strongest linear relations explained over 70% of the variability in the biological metric using three hydrologic metrics as explanatory variables. Tolerance-based biological metrics demonstrated the strongest linear relations to hydrologic metrics. The most commonly used hydrologic metrics were related to bankfull flows and aspects of flow variability.

Conclusions

Final regression models represent paired streamgage records and biological samples throughout the State of Minnesota and encompass differences in stream orders, hydrologic landscape units, and watershed sizes. Presented methods can support evaluations of stream fish communities and facilitate targeted efforts to improve the health of fish communities. Methods also can be applied to locations outside of Minnesota with continuous streamgage data and fish-community samples.
Food insecurity in pastoral communities of Ngorongoro conservation area, Tanzania
Authors: Safari John G. , Kirwa Moita K. , Mandara Christina G.
Published: June 2022

Background

Food insecurity increases the risks of hunger and malnutrition and remains a formidable health challenge in resource-poor settings. Pastoral communities, which are largely restricted to marginal lands, tend to experience heightened levels of food insecurity. However, empirical evidence of food insecurity for communities living on the edge of conservation areas is limited. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of food insecurity in pastoral communities of Ngorongoro, Tanzania.

Methods

Data were collected through a household survey (n = 238), key informant interview and field observation. Food insecurity was measured through Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS). Data were subjected to descriptive statistics, principal component analysis, and multivariate regression analysis.

Results

Based on three HFIAS domains, the surveyed communities experience anxiety and uncertainty about food supply (77.3% of the households), insufficient quality in terms of variety and preferences (74.1%), and insufficient food intake (55.9%). Overall, more than half (55%) of the households are food insecure. Multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics show that household food insecurity is independent of socio-demographic factors. Culture, environmental factors, and production system determine food access, food consumption practices, and overall household food security. The odds of food insecurity are higher in households whose location to the market exceeds 5 km [AOR (95% CI) = 6.20 (1.66–9.09)] and those reporting limited access to water [AOR (95% CI) = 1.09 (0.17–6.43]. A similar pattern is recorded in households not owning small stocks [AOR (95% CI) = 1.12 (0.41–1.65)] or donkeys [AOR (95% CI) = 1.19 (0.18–7.65)].

Conclusion

Empirical evidence shows that the prevalence of food insecurity in the study community is high. This situation emanates from a wide range of factors including those linked to culture, physical environment, and production system. Thus, interventions are needed to leverage nutrition education, promote sustainable energy technologies, and develop strategic social service infrastructure in the community development zone. There is also a need to look into long-term settlement plans with the view to improve the welfare of the pastoral communities.
Identification of multiple isoforms of glucocorticoid receptor in nasal polyps of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Shao Shan , Wang Yue , Zhao Yan , Xu Yuan , Wang Tie , Du Kun , Bao Shiping , Wang Xiangdong , Zhang Luo
Published: June 2022

Background

The conventional belief that glucocorticosteroid (GC) acts through a single brand glucocorticoid receptor (GR)α protein has changed dramatically with the discovery of multiple GR isoforms. We aimed to evaluate whether multiple GR protein isoforms are expressed in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and whether GR protein isoform expression profiles differ between different endotypes of CRSwNP.

Methods

Thirty-eight patients with CRSwNP and ten healthy volunteers were included. The protein expression of multiple GR isoforms in nasal polyps (NPs) tissue and control mucosae was examined by western blot analysis with different GR antibodies.

Results

Five bands, including three bands for known proteins (GRα-A/B, GRα-C, and GRα-D) and two bands for unidentified proteins at 67 kilodaltons (kDa) and 60 kDa, were identified with both total GR antibody (PA1-511A) and GRα-specific antibody (PA1-516). GRα-D intensity, which was abundant in nasal mucosa, was significantly increased in the CRSwNP group and was especially elevated in the noneosinophilic CRSwNP (NE-CRSwNP) group (PA1-511A: P < 0.001 and P = 0.0018; PA1-516: P < 0.003 and P = 0.006, respectively). Additionally, the intensities of the newly recognized 67 kDa and 60 kDa bands were much greater in the NE-CRSwNP subgroup than in the eosinophilic CRSwNP (E-CRSwNP) subgroup; in the E-CRSwNP subgroup, the median intensities were even lower than those in the control group.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that nasal tissues express multiple GR protein isoforms. GR protein isoforms presented disease and tissue-specific expression profiles that differed between the CRSwNP and control groups and between the E-CRSwNP and NE-CRSwNP subgroups.

Graphical Abstract
Total thyroidectomy versus hemithyroidectomy with intraoperative radiofrequency ablation for unilateral thyroid cancer with contralateral nodules: A propensity score matching study
Authors: Yuan Qianqian , Zheng Lewei , Hou Jinxuan , Zhou Rui , Xu Gaoran , Li Chengxin , Wu Gaosong
Published: June 2022

Background

For unilateral papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients with contralateral benign nodules, optimal treatment decisions are made according to patient preference and the disease's pathological features. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy and complications of hemithyroidectomy with intraoperative radiofrequency ablation (RFA) compared with total thyroidectomy.

Methods

Patients with unilateral PTC and cytologically benign contralateral nodules were enrolled from 2014 to 2018. Total thyroidectomy or hemithyroidectomy with intraoperative RFA of the contralateral nodule was offered to patients who had anxiety regarding their disease. The operation-related parameters, transient or permanent nerve injury, hypocalcemia and disease recurrence, were recorded and compared between the two groups.

Results

After propensity score matching, 191 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy and 224 contralateral nodules in 191 patients underwent hemithyroidectomy with intraoperative RFA (HTRFA) were included. The volume reduction ratios of the contralateral nodules were 67.7% at 12 months and 95.8% at 24 months. The total thyroidectomy group reported significantly higher hypocalcemia than HTRFA within one year (7.8% vs. 2.6%, p = 0.022). Supplemental levothyroxine was not required in 28.3% (54/191) of the patients one year after HTRFA. With a median follow-up of 4.1 years, three recurrences (1.6%) were observed in the HTRFA, and no recurrence occurred in the total thyroidectomy group ( p = 0.246).

Conclusions

Hemithyroidectomy for unilateral PTC and intraoperative RFA for contralateral nodules were acceptable and effective treatment approaches and did not increase the risk of complications.

Graphical Abstract
The effect of traditional amur cork tree bark extract dyes on thermal stability of paper by accelerating ageing
Authors: Luo Yanbing , Wei Quan , Wei Yanfei
Published: June 2022

Extracts from amur cork tree barks contain some of the most important traditional natural dyes used, especially for functional production in ancient Chinese papers, due to religious reasons and their aesthetic aspects and antibacterial properties. Some ancient paper artefacts, dyed with this colourant and scattered around the world, are currently preserved to different extents. This study aims to characterize the thermal degradation process of amur cork tree bark extracts dyed papers to improve the knowledge and effectiveness of restoration practices. The properties of extracts dyed papers treated under dry-heat accelerating ageing conditions were investigated via optical observation and scanning electron microscopy as well as with pH, tensile strength and folding endurance analyses. The results showed that the main components from extracted dyes played important roles in affecting the properties of dyed paper. The changes in surface colour, pH, morphology and mechanical properties after the artificial dry-heat ageing tests revealed the most suitable concentration of extract dyes for maintaining the long-term thermal stability of the paper.
Soluble mannose receptor CD206 and von Willebrand factor are early biomarkers to identify patients at risk for severe or necrotizing acute pancreatitis
Authors: Reuken Philipp A. , Brozat Jonathan F. , Quickert Stefanie , Ibidapo-obe Oluwatomi , Reißing Johanna , Franz Anika , Stengel Sven , Teichgräber Ulf K.-M. , Kiehntopf Michael , Trautwein Christian , Stallmach Andreas , Koch Alexander , Bruns Tony
Published: June 2022

Background

In acute pancreatitis (AP), microcirculatory dysfunction and leukocyte activation contribute to organ damage, inflammation, and mortality. Given the role of macrophage activation, monocyte recruitment, and microthrombus formation in the early pathogenesis of AP, we examined the macrophage activation marker soluble mannose receptor (sCD206) and the endothelial function marker von Willebrand factor (vWF) in patients admitted for AP.

Methods

In an exploratory analysis, serum sCD206 and plasma vWF were prospectively analyzed on day 1 and day 3 in 81 patients with AP admitted to the hospital. In addition, blood samples from 59 patients with early AP admitted to the intensive care unit and symptom onset < 24 h were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were dichotomized as per study protocol into two groups: (i) “non-severe edematous AP” including patients with mild AP without organ failure and patients with transient organ failure that resolves within 48 h and (ii) “severe/necrotizing AP” including patients with severe AP and persistent organ failure > 48 h and/or patients with local complications.

Results

In the prospective cohort, 17% developed severe/necrotizing pancreatitis compared with 56% in the ICU cohort. Serum concentrations of sCD206 on admission were higher in patients with severe/necrotizing AP than in patients with non-severe edematous AP (prospective: 1.57 vs. 0.66 mg/l, P = 0.005; ICU: 1.76 vs. 1.25 mg/l, P = 0.006), whereas other inflammatory markers (leukocytes, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin) and disease severity (SOFA, SAPS II, APACHE II) did not show significant differences. Patients with severe/necrotizing AP had a greater increase in sCD206 than patients with non-severe edematous AP at day 3 in the prospective cohort. In contrast to routine coagulation parameters, vWF antigen levels were elevated on admission (prospective cohort: 375 vs. 257%, P = 0.02; ICU cohort: 240 vs. 184%, P = 0.03). When used as continuous variables, sCD206 and VWF antigen remained predictors of severe/necrotizing AP after adjustment for etiology and age in both cohorts.

Conclusions

sCD206 identifies patients at risk of severe AP at earlier timepoints than routine markers of inflammation and coagulation. Prospective studies are needed to investigate whether incorporating early or repeated measurements into the existing scoring system will better identify patients at increased risk for complications of AP.
Which training method is more effective in earthquake training: Digital game, drill, or traditional training?
Authors: Çoban Murat , Göktaş Yüksel
Published: June 2022

One of the most important reasons for deaths and injuries caused by earthquakes is that society does not have sufficient knowledge of appropriate protective behaviors during an earthquake. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of different educational practices in providing primary school students with the knowledge of earthquake preparedness and protection from potential hazards of an earthquake. Considering the quasi-experimental research, the pretest–posttest control/comparison group design was used, and a total of 401 students from the fourth grade in four different schools constituted the sampling of the study. Within the study, three types of educational activities were applied: digital games evaluating smart learning environments, earthquake drills, and traditional education. Findings show that the most effective way to teach students what to do during an earthquake is the earthquake drill. This study also indicates that the design elements in the three-dimensional earthquake game developed in the scope of the research played an effective role in earthquake education. This study is of importance as it provides significant results on how to determine the most appropriate educational method for primary school students and how digital games can be used more effectively in the learning process.
Characteristics of interactive classrooms that first year students find helpful
Authors: Vroom Kristen , Gehrtz Jessica , Apkarian Naneh , Alzaga Elizondo Tenchita , Ellis Brittney , Hagman Jessica
Published: June 2022

Background

Implementing research-based teaching practices has been repeatedly cited as an important factor for student success in university mathematics courses. Many research-based practices increase the amount of student–student and/or student–instructor interaction. However, some instructors are hesitant to implement such practices because they anticipate their students reacting negatively to experiencing an interactive classroom. As part of a larger project studying introductory undergraduate mathematics courses in the United States, we investigated students’ perceptions of the helpfulness of various classroom characteristics, particularly those that require interaction.

Results

From analyzing quantitative student data, we found that students reported interactive classroom characteristics (e.g., group work) as less prevalent than other classroom characteristics (e.g., lecture). Moreover, the students tended to regard characteristics that they reported experiencing often as helpful for their learning. From analyzing qualitative data from student focus groups, we found that students considered several indicators when identifying if a characteristic was helpful for their learning. In particular, students suggested that they can identify a characteristic as helpful for their learning when it supported them in solving assigned problems and understanding why the procedures work, earning good grades, building on their knowledge or applying it in different contexts, and teaching others.

Conclusions

The key finding from our work is that students are likely to view classroom characteristics that they experience more often as more helpful for their learning and are less likely to view characteristics that they rarely experience as helpful for their learning. Students view the characteristics that they regularly experience as helping them to solve problems and understand why the procedures work, earn good grades, build on their knowledge or apply it in different contexts, and teach others. We discuss important implications for practice, policy, and research as it relates to both student and instructor buy-in for increasing interactions in class.
Clinical results after open gluteus medius repair in single-row technique
Authors: Derksen Alexander , Lonnemann Eike , Budde Stefan , Becker Onno , Wirries Nils , Haertlé Marco , Windhagen Henning
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The aim of this retrospective study is to present the clinical results of open repair of gluteus medius and gluteus minimus tendon tears using the single-row suture anchor technique.

Methods

This retrospective study included 43 participants after open repair of the abductor tendon of the hip joint using a single-row suture anchor technique. Clinical outcome parameters were assessed by VAS (0–10), gait safety (1 = absolutely safe gait without assistive devices - 10 = gait not possible), SHV (0–100%), mHHS, WOMAC, and gluteal muscle strength status from single-leg stance and against gravity.

Results

Thirty-two female and 11 male subjects with an average age of 65.2 years were included in this study. Overall, a significant decrease in pain (VAS 3.2) and improvement in joint function is observed after a period of 22.3 months. The mHHS reached 61.9 points, WOMAC 28.2, SHV 69.8% and gait stability measured by the VAS reached 3.4. 58.1% of the participants reported not having Trendelenburg, while 4% could not control the single leg stance.

Conclusions

The present study shows that single row repair for open glutueus medius refixation indicates limited clinical results. Although there was an improvement in clinical outcome. The majority of subjects continued to report limiting symptoms.
Fabrication of dense albite aggregates by hot pressing
Authors: Shigematsu Norio , Zhou You , Hyuga Hideki , Yoshizawa Yu-ichi , Kido Masanori
Published: June 2022

Synthetic rocks are used in laboratories to measure the physical and chemical properties of Earth’s constituent minerals in order to understand Earth’s interior. To understand the phenomena in the middle and upper crust, dense aggregates of Na-rich plagioclase are necessary. Therefore, we explored a method of fabricating dense aggregates of albite with low porosities, homogeneous microstructures, the absence of melt and sample sizes larger than a cubic centimetre using hot pressing by solid-state sintering. We conducted multiple experiments in which we varied the particle sizes, the agglomerations of powder, the method of forming, the sintering temperature, and the pressure and duration of the hot pressing. Two particle size fractions of powder, less than two micrometres and less than a few hundred nanometres, were prepared by pulverisation and decantation of natural albite powder. Because fine-grained albite powder seems to agglomerate easily, a technique to dry and disperse the powder was also developed. Hot pressing was carried out at temperatures of 1000‒1150 °C and pressures of 40‒120 MPa. The following were found to be important in obtaining dense aggregates of albite: (1) powders with a particle size less than a few hundred nanometres; (2) powders are adequately dispersed; and (3) preparation of green bodies by slip casting, which makes hot pressing efficient. A dense albite aggregate can then be fabricated using hot pressing at a temperature of 1080 °C and pressure of 100 MPa by solid-state sintering.
Nelarabine-induced rhabdomyolysis in a patient with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a case report
Authors: Utsumi Akari , Goto Yuri , Suzuki Takaaki , Imai Chiaki , Matsui Shinichiro , Sakaida Emiko , Ishii Itsuko
Published: June 2022

Background

Nelarabine is an antineoplastic purine analog used for the treatment of refractory or relapsed T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). The most prominent side effect of nelarabine are neurotoxicity and hematologic disorder, which are considered dose-limiting factors. Although clinical studies have reported myopathy due to nelarabine, actual detailed outcomes were not well-known initial approval. The incidence of nelarabine induced rhabdomyolysis has been reported at 2% in study in children. Cases of rhabdomyolysis have been reported in adults from medical facilities in the United Sates with renal dysfunction or severe muscle symptoms after administration of multiple courses of nelarabine. In this report, we discuss a case of rhabdomyolysis diagnosed after a single course of nelarabine. In this case, creatine kinase (CK) level was elevated in grade 4, without renal dysfunction and severe muscle symptoms.

Case presentation

A 46-year-old man from Japan was diagnosed with T-ALL and received a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in first remission. However, the disease relapsed 6 months after transplantation. Nelarabine was selected as the next-line chemotherapeutic agent. The patient received 1500 mg/m2 of nelarabine on day 1 followed by a dose on days 3 and 5. CK levels, which were baseline before treatment, increased to grade 4 (18,620 IU/L) on the 8th day of treatment. He was diagnosed as rhabdomyolysis due to nelarabine with little possibility of other factors. He complained only of mild pain in his upper extremities and no other symptoms were noticed. The patient was managed with hydration. The pain lasted approximately 7 days, but there were no sequelae secondary to the rhabdomyolysis. Because of the elevation of CK in grade 4, we avoided re-administration.

Conclusion

In the patient administrated nelarabine, CK level was elevated in grade 4, without other symptoms of rhabdomyolysis. The results suggest that CK may be elevated at the onset of rhabdomyolysis caused by nelarabine, even in the absence of other symptoms. Therefore, it was suggested that monitoring CK during nelarabine administration is important for detecting rhabdomyolysis before it becomes severe. We consider that CK should be monitored even in absence of symptoms.
Neuropsychological evaluation and rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis (NEuRoMS): protocol for a mixed-methods, multicentre feasibility randomised controlled trial
Authors: Topcu Gogem , Smith Laura , Mhizha-Murira Jacqueline R. , Goulden Nia , Hoare Zoë , Drummond Avril , Fitzsimmons Deborah , Evangelou Nikos , Schmierer Klaus , Tallantyre Emma C. , Leighton Paul , Allen-Philbey Kimberley , Stennett Andrea , Bradley Paul , Bale Clare , Turton James , das Nair Roshan ,   On behalf of the NEuRoMS Collective
Published: June 2022

Background

Cognitive problems affect up to 70% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS), which can negatively impact mood, ability to work, and quality of life. Addressing cognitive problems is a top 10 research priority for people with MS. Our ongoing research has systematically developed a cognitive screening and management pathway (NEuRoMS) tailored for people with MS, involving a brief cognitive evaluation and rehabilitation intervention. The present study aims to assess the feasibility of delivering the pathway and will inform the design of a definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT) to investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the intervention and eventually guide its clinical implementation.

Methods

The feasibility study is in three parts. Part 1 involves an observational study of those who receive screening and support for cognitive problems, using routinely collected clinical data. Part 2 is a two-arm, parallel group, multicentre, feasibility RCT with a nested fidelity evaluation. This part will evaluate the feasibility of undertaking a definitive trial comparing the NEuRoMS intervention plus usual care to usual care only, amongst people with MS with mild cognitive problems (n = 60). In part 3, semi-structured interviews will be undertaken with participants from part 2 (n = 25), clinicians (n = 9), and intervention providers (n = 3) involved in delivering the NEuRoMS cognitive screening and management pathway. MS participants will be recruited from outpatient clinics at three UK National Health Service hospitals.

Discussion

Timely screening and effective management of cognitive problems in MS are urgently needed due to the detrimental consequences of cognitive problems on people with MS, the healthcare system, and wider society. The NEuRoMS intervention is based on previous and extant literature and has been co-constructed with relevant stakeholders. If effective, the NEuRoMS pathway will facilitate timely identification and management of cognitive problems in people with MS.

Trial registration

ISRCTN11203922. Prospectively registered on 09.02.2021.
Peripheral nerve defects repaired with autogenous vein grafts filled with platelet-rich plasma and active nerve microtissues and evaluated by novel multimodal ultrasound techniques
Authors: Zhu Yaqiong , Peng Nan , Wang Jing , Jin Zhuang , Zhu Lianhua , Wang Yu , Chen Siming , Hu Yongqiang , Zhang Tieyuan , Song Qing , Xie Fang , Yan Lin , Li Yingying , Xiao Jing , Li Xinyang , Jiang Bo , Peng Jiang , Wang Yuexiang , Luo Yukun
Published: June 2022

Background

Developing biocompatible nerve conduits that accelerate peripheral nerve regeneration, lengthening and functional recovery remains a challenge. The combined application of nerve microtissues and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) provides abundant Schwann cells (SCs) and various natural growth factors and can compensate for the deficiency of SCs in the nerve bridge, as well as the limitations of applying a single type of growth factor. Multimodal ultrasound evaluation can provide additional information on the stiffness and microvascular flow perfusion of the tissue. This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of a novel tissue-engineered nerve graft composed of an autogenous vein, nerve microtissues and PRP in reconstructing a 12-mm tibial nerve defect and to explore the value of multimodal ultrasound techniques in evaluating the prognosis of nerve repair.

Methods

In vitro, nerve microtissue activity was first investigated, and the effects on SC proliferation, migration, factor secretion, and axonal regeneration of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were evaluated by coculture with nerve microtissues and PRP. In vivo, seventy-five rabbits were equally and randomly divided into Hollow, PRP, Micro-T (Microtissues), Micro-T + PRP and Autograft groups. By analysing the neurological function, electrophysiological recovery, and the comparative results of multimodal ultrasound and histological evaluation, we investigated the effect of these new nerve grafts in repairing tibial nerve defects.

Results

Our results showed that the combined application of nerve microtissues and PRP could significantly promote the proliferation, secretion and migration of SCs and the regeneration of axons in the early stage. The Micro-T + PRP group and Autograft groups exhibited the best nerve repair 12 weeks postoperatively. In addition, the changes in target tissue stiffness and microvascular perfusion on multimodal ultrasound (shear wave elastography; contrast-enhanced ultrasonography; Angio PlaneWave UltrasenSitive, AngioPLUS) were significantly correlated with the histological results, such as collagen area percentage and VEGF expression, respectively.

Conclusion

Our novel tissue-engineered nerve graft shows excellent efficacy in repairing 12-mm defects of the tibial nerve in rabbits. Moreover, multimodal ultrasound may provide a clinical reference for prognosis by quantitatively evaluating the stiffness and microvescular flow of nerve grafts and targeted muscles.
Visual acuity after cataract surgery in Macular Telangiectasia Type 2 Stage 3 to 5
Authors: Heng Jacob S. , Arevalo J. Fernando , Handa James T.
Published: June 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate visual acuity after cataract surgery in eyes with Macular Telangiectasia (MacTel) Type 2.

Methods

Single-center retrospective cohort study of patients with MacTel Type 2 who underwent cataract surgery and were managed at the same institution. Patients underwent pre-operative assessment by a retinal specialist with examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT) at the same institution. The main outcome measure was the post-operative change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Secondary study outcomes were achieving post-operative BCVA better than Snellen acuity of 20/40 and time to BCVA loss by two lines or more (10 or more ETDRS letters).

Results

A total of 20 eyes (11 patients) underwent cataract surgery and were followed for a median of 25.5 months (IQR 17.5–44.2 months). The median post-operative BCVA improvement was 10.5 letters (IQR 3.50–20.25). Nuclear sclerosis severity [β = 8.99 (95% CI 3.35, 14.6), p = 0.00177] was associated with post-operative change in BCVA and central foveal ellipsoid zone (EZ) breaks [OR 1.33 × 10–9 (95% CI 5.12 × 10–10–3.43 × 10−9), p < 0.001] on OCT was inversely correlated with post-operative BCVA > 20/40 using a multivariate generalized linear model. Central foveal EZ breaks [HR 1.77 × 109 (95% CI 3.86 × 108, 8.11 × 109), p < 0.001] and MacTel Type 2 disease stage [HR 2.83, (95% CI 1.12, 7.12), p = 0.027] were independently associated with shorter time to vision loss of two lines or more in a multivariate Cox regression model.

Conclusions

Visual acuity significant improved after cataract surgery in eyes with MacTel Type 2 regardless of disease severity. The presence of central foveal EZ breaks may predict poorer post-operative visual acuity and subsequent vision loss from disease progression.