bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Wellbeing Intervention for Chronic Kidney Disease (WICKD): results of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Dingwall Kylie M. , Sweet Michelle , Cass Alan , Hughes Jaquelyne T. , Kavanagh David , Howard Kirsten , Barzi Federica , Brown Sarah , Sajiv Cherian , Majoni Sandawana W. , Nagel Tricia
Published: April 2021

Background

End stage kidney disease (ESKD) is associated with many losses, subsequently impacting mental wellbeing. Few studies have investigated the efficacy of psychosocial interventions for people with ESKD and none exist for Indigenous people, a population in which the ESKD burden is especially high.

Methods

This three-arm, waitlist, single-blind randomised controlled trial examined efficacy of the Stay Strong App in improving psychological distress (Kessler distress scale; K10), depressive symptoms (adapted Patient Health Questionnaire; PHQ-9), quality of life (EuroQoL; EQ. 5D) and dialysis adherence among Indigenous Australians undergoing haemodialysis in central and northern Australia (Alice Springs and Darwin), with follow up over two 3-month periods. Effects of immediate AIMhi Stay Strong App treatment were compared with those from a contact control app (The Hep B Story) and treatment as usual (TAU). Control conditions received the Stay Strong intervention after 3 months.

Results

Primary analyses of the full sample (N = 156) showed statistically significant decreases in K10 and PHQ-9 scores at 3 months for the Hep B Story but not for the Stay Strong app or TAU. Restricting the sample to those with moderate to severe symptoms of distress or depression (K10 > =25 or PHQ-9 > =10) showed significant decreases in K10 and PHQ-9 scores for both Stay Strong and Hep B Story. No significant differences were observed for the EQ-5D or dialysis attendance.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that talking to people about their wellbeing and providing information relevant to kidney health using culturally adapted, locally relevant apps improve the wellbeing of people on dialysis. Further research is required to replicate these findings and identify active intervention components.

Trial registration

ACTRN12617000249358; 17/02/2017.
Dacryoendoscopy-assisted incision of Hasner’s valve under nasoendoscopy for membranous congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction after probing failure: a retrospective study
Authors: Li Yue , Wei Min , Liu Xueru , Zhang Leilei , Song Xuefei , Xiao Caiwen
Published: April 2021

Background

To introduce a treatment option: dacryoendoscopy-assisted incision of Hasner’s valve under nasoendoscopy and assess its efficacy in treating membranous congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) in children older than 1 year with history of initial probing failure.

Methods

52 eyes of 43 children with membranous CNLDO who underwent dacryoendoscopy-assisted incision of Hasner’s valve under nasoendoscopy between May 2012 and October 2020 were enrolled in this retrospective study. All participants were older than 1 year and all the eyes had gone through probing at least once but still had symptoms of epiphora and discharge. Surgical success was defined as a normal fluorescein dye disappearance test (FDDT) and the absence of pre-operation complaints, including epiphora, muco-purulent discharge, increased tear lake or the symptoms of acute infection such as acute dacryocystitis. Patients’ demographics, clinical features and follow-up outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Of all these operated cases, surgical success was achieved in 52/52 eyes without any early or late complications. The overall success rate was 100%.

Conclusions

Dacryoendoscopy-assisted incision of Hasner’s valve under nasoendoscopy is an effective and minimally invasive surgical treatment in membranous CNLDO patients with initial probing failure.
Patent foramen ovale revealed by COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Vanhomwegen Charlotte , Taton Olivier , Selvais Nicolas , Vanhove Olivier , Leduc Dimitri
Published: April 2021

Background

Platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome (POS) is a rare condition characterized by dyspnoea (platypnea) and arterial desaturation in the upright position resolved in the supine position (orthodeoxia). Intracardiac shunt, pulmonary ventilation–perfusion mismatch and others intrapulmonary abnormalities are involved.

Case presentation

We report a case of POS associated with two pathophysiological issues: one, cardiac POS caused by a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and second, pulmonary POS due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) interstitial pneumonia. POS has resolved after recovery of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia.

Conclusions

Right-to-left interatrial shunt and intrapulmonary shunt caused by SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia contributed to refractory hypoxemia and POS. Therefore, in case of COVID-19 patient with unexplained POS, the existence of PFO must be investigated.
Impact of preconceptional serum thyroid stimulating hormone values ranging between 2.5 and 4.5 mIU/L on live birth rates following ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination treatment for unexplained infertility
Authors: Karakis Lale Susan , Kiyak Huseyin , Okmen Berfin , Ozdemir Cagdas , Turkgeldi Engin
Published: April 2021

Background

Contrary to overt hypothyroidism, the true impact of subclinical hypothyroidism on fertility has not been well established. This study aimed to investigate whether serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values between 2.5 and 4.5 mIU/L are associated with lower pregnancy rates compared to TSH levels between 0.3 and 2.5 mIU/L in women undergoing ovulation induction with gonadotropins and intrauterine insemination (IUI) for unexplained infertility.

Methods

Medical records of couples with unexplained infertility who underwent IUI treatment between January 2013 and December 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. Cycle characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of patients with serum TSH levels between 0.3–2.5 mIU/L and 2.5–4.5 mIU/L were compared. Primary outcome measures were clinical pregnancy and live birth rate. Secondary outcome measures were total dose of gonadotropin administration, duration of ovulation induction and miscarriage rate.

Results

A total of 726 euthyroid women who underwent 1465 cycles of ovulation induction with gonadotropins and IUI were included in the analyses. Patient and cycle characteristics of the two study groups were similar. No statistically significant differences could be detected in the clinical pregnancy (p = 0.74) and live birth rates (p = 0.38) between the two groups. Duration of ovulation induction, total gonadotropin dosage, number of follicles > 17 mm on the trigger day and the miscarriage rates were similar in the two groups.

Conclusion

In euthyroid women undergoing ovulation induction with gonadotropins and IUI for unexplained infertility, the range of preconceptional serum TSH values between 2.5 and 4.5 mIU/L is not associated with lower pregnancy rates when compared to TSH levels between 0.3 and 2.5 mIU/L.
Role of husband’s attitude towards the usage of contraceptives for unmet need of family planning among married women of reproductive age in Pakistan
Authors: Asif Muhammad Farhan , Pervaiz Zahid , Afridi Jawad Rahim , Abid Ghulam , Lassi Zohra S.
Published: April 2021

Background

Family planning services deliver a wide range of benefits to the well-being of females and the community. It can curtail the risk of maternal and neonatal mortality through the reduction in abortions and pregnancies. The government of Pakistan has been struggling to convince people about the usefulness of family planning programs. However, different factors related to social norms, values, and culture are important to determine the success of these programs. One such factor is the patriarchal structure of Pakistani society where most of the household decisions are made by men. The objective of this research is to examine the role of the husband’s attitude towards the usage of contraceptives for the unmet need of family planning (UMNFP) among married women of reproductive age (MWRA) in Pakistan.

Method

The dataset of Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2017–18 is utilized to examine the role of the husband’s attitude towards the usage of contraceptives in UMNFP among MWRA in Pakistan.

Results

The UMNFP was considerably lower among MWRA between 40 years and above compared to women 15–19 years. The odds of UMNFP were higher among women and men who were educated up to the primary level compared to those with no education. Odds of UMNFP were higher among women from the poor wealth quintile compared to the poorest wealth quintile; similarly, it was significantly lower among women who were from the richer and the richest wealth quintile compared to the poorest wealth quintile. The odds of UMNFP were lower among women who were employed compared to those who were not employed. Lastly, the odds of UMNFP were higher among women whose husbands opposed to using contraceptives, who perceived that there was a religious prohibition for such use and when a decision on the contraception use was solely made by the husband.

Conclusions

Husband’s attitude towards the usage of contraceptives is an important predictor of UMNFP. Liaising with the community and religious leaders to persuade people particularly men about the usefulness of family planning programs and encouraging men to understand their women’s say in using contraceptives should be encouraged.
Prevalence of Rhesus D negativity among reproductive age women in Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kanko Tesfaye K. , Woldemariam Melat K.
Published: April 2021

Background

The Rhesus (Rh) blood group system is the next most clinically significant blood group system following the ABO blood group. Rh D-negative women are at risk of alloimmunization following exposure to Rh D-positive blood. The exposure of Rh D-negative women to Rh D-positive fetal blood may cause hemolytic disease of the fetus or new-born due to Rh incompatibility. Knowing Rh blood phenotype has paramount importance to prevent the risk of sensitization and bad obstetric outcome in Rh D-negative women. Despite the aforementioned fact, the distribution of Rh D-negative phenotype of women was not explored in Arba Minch Zuria district, southern Ethiopia. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of Rh D-negative blood phenotype among reproductive-age women in Arba Minch Zuria district, southern Ethiopia.

Methods and materials

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among reproductive-age women in Arba Minch Zuria district, Southern Ethiopia from March to April 2019. Socio-demographic data were collected using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire and blood phenotype determination was done by laboratory technicians using the slide method principle aseptically and Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21 was used for analysis.

Result

The data were collected from 417 study participants with a 98.8% response rate. This study revealed that 2.1%, 1.9%, 1.2%, and 1% of study participants with blood group O, A, B, and AB were Rh D negative, respectively. In this study, the overall prevalence of Rh D negative phenotype was found 6.2% among reproductive-age women in Arba Minch Zuria district, Southern Ethiopia.

Conclusions

This study showed a high prevalence of Rh D negative factor among reproductive-age women in Arba Minch Zuria district. Therefore, counseling of reproductive age women on the importance of Rh D factor status determination would be worthy to avoid the potential risk of sensitization among Rh D negative women in order to prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus and new-born.
CircLIFR synergizes with MSH2 to attenuate chemoresistance via MutSα/ATM-p73 axis in bladder cancer
Authors: Zhang Hui , Xiao Xingyuan , Wei Wenjie , Huang Chao , Wang Miao , Wang Liang , He Yuanqiao , Sun Jiayin , Jiang Yangkai , Jiang Guosong , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: April 2021

Background

Cisplatin (CDDP) has become a standard-of-care treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), while chemoresistance remains a major challenge. Accumulating evidence indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are discrete functional entities. However, the regulatory functions as well as complexities of circRNAs in modulating CDDP-based chemotherapy in bladder cancer are yet to be well revealed.

Methods

Through analyzing the expression profile of circRNAs in bladder cancer tissues, RNA FISH, circRNA pull-down assay, mass spectrometry analysis and RIP, circLIFR was identified and its interaction with MSH2 was confirmed. The effects of circLIFR and MSH2 on CDDP-based chemotherapy were explored by flow cytometry and rescue experiments. Co-IP and Western blot were used to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of circLIFR and MSH2. Biological implications of circLIFR and MSH2 in bladder cancer were implemented in tumor xenograft models and PDX models.

Results

CircLIFR was downregulated in bladder cancer and expression was positively correlated with favorable prognosis. Moreover, circLIFR synergizing with MSH2, which was a mediator of CDDP sensitivity in bladder cancer cells, positively modulated sensitivity to CDDP in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circLIFR augmented the interaction between MutSα and ATM, ultimately contributing to stabilize p73, which triggered to apoptosis. Importantly, MIBC with high expression of circLIFR and MSH2 was more sensitive to CDDP-based chemotherapy in tumor xenograft models and PDX models.

Conclusions

CircLIFR could interact with MSH2 to positively modulate CDDP-sensitivity through MutSα/ATM-p73 axis in bladder cancer. CircLIFR and MSH2 might be act as promising therapeutic targets for CDDP-resistant bladder cancer.
Inhibiting BDNF/TrkB.T1 receptor improves resiniferatoxin-induced postherpetic neuralgia through decreasing ASIC3 signaling in dorsal root ganglia
Authors: Wei Xiang , Wang Lina , Hua Jie , Jin Xiao-hong , Ji Fuhai , Peng Ke , Zhou Bin , Yang Jianping , Meng Xiao-wen
Published: April 2021

Background

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a devastating complication after varicella-zoster virus infection. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to participate in the pathogenesis of PHN. A truncated isoform of the tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) receptor TrkB.T1, as a high-affinity receptor of BDNF, is upregulated in multiple nervous system injuries, and such upregulation is associated with pain. Acid-sensitive ion channel 3 (ASIC3) is involved in chronic neuropathic pain, but its relation with BDNF/TrkB.T1 in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) during PHN is unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether BDNF/TrkB.T1 contributes to PHN through regulating ASIC3 signaling in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs).

Methods

Resiniferatoxin (RTX) was used to induce rat PHN models. Mechanical allodynia was assessed by measuring the paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs). Thermal hyperalgesia was determined by detecting the paw withdrawal latencies (PWLs). We evaluated the effects of TrkB.T1-ASIC3 signaling inhibition on the behavior, neuronal excitability, and inflammatory response during RTX-induced PHN. ASIC3 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) transfection was used to investigate the effect of exogenous BDNF on inflammatory response in cultured PC-12 cells.

Results

RTX injection induced mechanical allodynia and upregulated the protein expression of BDNF, TrkB.T1, ASIC3, TRAF6, nNOS, and c-Fos, as well as increased neuronal excitability in DRGs. Inhibition of ASIC3 reversed the abovementioned effects of RTX, except for BDNF and TrkB.T1 protein expression. In addition, inhibition of TrkB.T1 blocked RTX-induced mechanical allodynia, activation of ASIC3 signaling, and hyperexcitability of neurons. RTX-induced BDNF upregulation was found in both neurons and satellite glia cells in DRGs. Furthermore, exogenous BDNF activated ASIC3 signaling, increased NO level, and enhanced IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels in PC-12 cells, which was blocked by shRNA-ASIC3 transfection.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that inhibiting BDNF/TrkB.T1 reduced inflammation, decreased neuronal hyperexcitability, and improved mechanical allodynia through regulating the ASIC3 signaling pathway in DRGs, which may provide a novel therapeutic target for patients with PHN.
Strategies to reduce sample sizes in Alzheimer’s disease primary and secondary prevention trials using longitudinal amyloid PET imaging
Authors: Lopes Alves Isadora , Heeman Fiona , Collij Lyduine E. , Salvadó Gemma , Tolboom Nelleke , Vilor-Tejedor Natàlia , Markiewicz Pawel , Yaqub Maqsood , Cash David , Mormino Elizabeth C. , Insel Philip S. , Boellaard Ronald , van Berckel Bart N. M. , Lammertsma Adriaan A. , Barkhof Frederik , Gispert Juan Domingo
Published: April 2021

Background

Detecting subtle-to-moderate biomarker changes such as those in amyloid PET imaging becomes increasingly relevant in the context of primary and secondary prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This work aimed to determine if and when distribution volume ratio (DVR; derived from dynamic imaging) and regional quantitative values could improve statistical power in AD prevention trials.

Methods

Baseline and annualized % change in [11C]PIB SUVR and DVR were computed for a global (cortical) and regional (early) composite from scans of 237 cognitively unimpaired subjects from the OASIS-3 database (www.oasis-brains.org). Bland-Altman and correlation analyses were used to assess the relationship between SUVR and DVR. General linear models and linear mixed effects models were used to determine effects of age, sex, andAPOE-ε4 carriership on baseline and longitudinal amyloid burden. Finally, differences in statistical power of SUVR and DVR (cortical or early composite) were assessed considering three anti-amyloid trial scenarios: secondary prevention trials including subjects with (1) intermediate-to-high (Centiloid > 20.1), or (2) intermediate (20.1 < Centiloid ≤ 49.4) amyloid burden, and (3) a primary prevention trial focusing on subjects with low amyloid burden (Centiloid ≤ 20.1). Trial scenarios were set to detect 20% reduction in accumulation rates across the whole population and inAPOE-ε4 carriers only.

Results

Although highly correlated to DVR (ρ = .96), cortical SUVR overestimated DVR cross-sectionally and in annual % change. In secondary prevention trials, DVR required 143 subjects per arm, compared with 176 for SUVR. Both restricting inclusion to individuals with intermediate amyloid burden levels or toAPOE-ε4 carriers alone further reduced sample sizes. For primary prevention, SUVR required less subjects per arm (n = 855) compared with DVR (n = 1508) and the early composite also provided considerable sample size reductions (n = 855 ton = 509 for SUVR,n = 1508 ton = 734 for DVR).

Conclusion

Sample sizes in AD secondary prevention trials can be reduced by the acquisition of dynamic PET scans and/or by restricting inclusion to subjects with intermediate amyloid burden or toAPOE-ε4 carriers only. Using a targeted early composite only leads to reductions of sample size requirements in primary prevention trials. These findings support strategies to enable smaller Proof-of-Concept Phase II clinical trials to better streamline drug development.
Clinical course of choroidal neovascular membrane in West Nile virus chorioretinitis: a case report
Authors: Zito Roberta , Micelli Ferrari Tommaso , Di Pilato Luigi , Lorusso Massimo , Ferretta Anna , Micelli Ferrari Luisa , Accorinti Massimo
Published: April 2021

Background

This report describes the clinical course of choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV) in West Nile virus-associated chorioretinitis.

Case presentation

A 28-year-old Italian woman was referred to our institution because of reduced visual acuity in the left eye dating back 4 months. A diagnosis of retinal vasculitis in the right eye and chorioretinitis with CNV in the left eye was made. A complete workup for uveitis revealed positivity only for anti-West Nile virus immunoglobulin M (IgM), while immunoglobulin G (IgG) was negative. Whole-body computed tomography and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging of the brain were also negative. Therefore, the patient was treated with a combination of oral prednisone (starting dose 1 mg/kg per day) and three intravitreal injections of bevacizumab 1.25 mg/0.05 ml, 1 month apart. Fourteen days from starting corticosteroid therapy and after the first intravitreal injection, the patient experienced increased visual acuity to 0.4. Response to therapy was monitored by clinical examination, ocular coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography and retinal fluorescein angiography. Three months later, resolution of CNV in the left eye was achieved and no signs of retinal vasculitis were detected in the right eye, while serum IgM for West Nile virus turned negative and IgG positive.

Conclusion

CNV may be a complication of West Nile virus-associated chorioretinitis, and only subclinical retinal vasculitis may also be found even in non-endemic regions.
Role of a new acellular dermal matrix in a multistep combined treatment of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the lumbar region: a case report
Authors: Lembo Fedele , Cecchino Liberato Roberto , Parisi Domenico , Portincasa Aurelio
Published: April 2021

Background

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare skin fibroblastic tumor, with a high rate of recurrence. The treatment of DFSP is generally surgical, and wide local excision is the mainstay of surgical treatment. Therefore, complete assessment of all surgical margins is fundamental before definitive reconstruction. The reconstruction is a challenge for plastic surgeons, especially in particular anatomical areas (for aesthetic or functional problems) or in patients who are not candidates for more complex surgical treatments. We describe an alternative approach for reconstructive treatment of the lumbar area after wide excision of DFSP (without fresh-frozen sections) in a young obese woman with a history of smoking, using a new type of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in a combined management protocol. The benefits of ADM are numerous: immediate wound closure and prevention of infections and excessive drying; minimal donor site morbidity; and good functional and aesthetic outcomes. Moreover, it is a temporary cover while the anatomical specimen is histologically analyzed, without donor site morbidity or prevention of any future surgery (if the margins are not tumor-free) or radiotherapy.

Case presentation

In October 2019, a 34-year old obese Caucasian Woman with a history of smoking came to our institute for a multinodular growing polypoid mass in her lumbar region. An incisional biopsy diagnosed DFSP. The patient underwent proper staging. A wide local excision with 3 cm clinically healthy tissue margins down to the muscle fascia was performed and the defect was repaired using a combined approach with a new artificial bilaminar dermal template (Pelnac®, Gunze Ltd., Osaka, Japan) and a negative-pressure wound therapy system (V.A.C.®, KCI, San Antonio, USA). After the final histological examination revealed tumor-free margins, a split-thickness graft was harvested from the right gluteus and fixed to the new derma with negative-pressure wound therapy. Postoperative radiotherapy was not necessary. After 15 days, the wound had healed without complications, with satisfactory aesthetic outcome and with no limitation of back motion or pain. After 6 months of follow-up, the patient was free from disease.

Conclusions

This is the first reported case of Pelnac® use in DFSP reconstruction of the lumbar region. We believe that the multistep approach described herein may be a good alternative approach in selected patients with wide resections in particular anatomical areas, especially when frozen sections (with Mohs micrographic surgery) are not available.
LOCATE: a prospective evaluation of the value of Leveraging Ongoing Citation Acquisition Techniques for living Evidence syntheses
Authors: Gates Michelle , Elliott Sarah A. , Gates Allison , Sebastianski Meghan , Pillay Jennifer , Bialy Liza , Hartling Lisa
Published: April 2021

Background

Living systematic reviews (LSRs) can expedite evidence synthesis by incorporating new evidence in real time. However, the methods needed to identify new studies in a timely manner are not well established.

Objectives

To explore the value of complementary search approaches in terms of search performance, impact on results and conclusions, screening workload, and feasibility compared to the reference standard.

Methods

We developed three complementary search approaches for a systematic review on treatments for bronchiolitis: Automated Full Search, PubMed Similar Articles, and Scopus Citing References. These were automated to retrieve results monthly; pairs of reviewers screened the records and commented on feasibility. After 1 year, we conducted a full update search (reference standard). For each complementary approach, we compared search performance (proportion missed, number needed to read [NNR]) and reviewer workload (number of records screened, time required) to the reference standard. We investigated the impact of the new trials on the effect estimate and certainty of evidence for the primary outcomes. We summarized comments about feasibility.

Results

Via the reference standard, reviewers screened 505 titles/abstracts, 24 full texts, and identified four new trials (NNR 127; 12.4 h). Of the complementary approaches, only the Automated Full Search located all four trials; these were located 6 to 12 months sooner than via the reference standard but did not alter the results nor certainty in the evidence. The Automated Full Search was the most resource-intensive approach (816 records screened; NNR 204; 17.1 h). The PubMed Similar Articles and Scopus Citing References approaches located far fewer records (452 and 244, respectively), thereby requiring less screening time (9.4 and 5.2 h); however, each approach located only one of the four new trials. Reviewers found it feasible and convenient to conduct monthly screening for searches of this yield (median 15–65 records/month).

Conclusions

The Automated Full Search was the most resource-intensive approach, but also the only to locate all of the newly published trials. Although the monthly screening time for the PubMed Similar Articles and Scopus Citing Articles was far less, most relevant records were missed. These approaches were feasible to integrate into reviewer work processes.

Systematic review registration

Open Science Framework. 10.17605/OSF.IO/6M28H.
COVID-19-induced vascular angiopathy: CTPA signs in critically ill patients other than acute pulmonary embolism and high-lung opacity scores
Authors: khalifa Mohamed Hossameldin , Samir Ahmed , Baess Ayman Ibrahim , Hendawi Sara Samy
Published: April 2021

Background

Vascular angiopathy is suggested to be the major cause of silent hypoxia among COVID-19 patients without severe parenchymal involvement. However, pulmonologists and clinicians in intensive care units become confused when they encounter acute respiratory deterioration with neither severe parenchymal lung involvement nor acute pulmonary embolism. Other radiological vascular signs might solve this confusion. This study investigated otherindirect vascular angiopathy signson CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) and involved a novel statistical analysis that was performed to determine the significance of associations between these signs and the CT opacity score of the pathological lung volume, which is calculated by an artificial intelligence system.

Results

The study was conducted retrospectively, during September and October 2020, on73 patients with critical COVID-19who were admitted to the ICU with progressive dyspnea and low O2saturation on room air (PaO2< 93%). They included 53 males and 20 females (73%:27%), and their age ranged from 18 to 88 years (mean ± SD=53.3 ± 13.5).CT-pulmonary angiographywas performed for all patients, and anartificial intelligence systemwas utilized to quantitatively assess the diseased lung volume. The radiological data were analyzed by three expert consultant radiologists to reach consensus. A low CT opacity score (≤10) was found in 18 patients (24.7%), while a high CT opacity score (>10) was found in 55 patients (75.3%). Pulmonary embolism was found in 24 patients (32.9%); three of them had low CT opacity scores. Four other indirect vasculopathy CTPA signs were identified: (1) pulmonary vascular enlargement (57 patients—78.1%), (2) pulmonary hypertension (14 patients—19.2%), (3) vascular tree-in-bud pattern (10 patients—13.7%), and (4) pulmonary infarction (three patients—4.1%). There were no significant associations between these signs and the CT opacity score (0.3205–0.7551, all >0.05). Furthermore, both pulmonary vascular enlargement and the vascular tree-in-bud sign were found in patients without pulmonary embolism and low CT-severity scores (13/15–86.7% and 2/15–13.3%, respectively).

Conclusion

Pulmonary vascular enlargement or, less commonly, vascular tree-in-bud pattern are both indirect vascular angiopathy signs on CTPA that can explain the respiratory deterioration which complicates COVID-19 in the absence of severe parenchymal involvement or acute pulmonary embolism.
Ultra-short-pulse high-average-power megahertz-repetition-rate coherent extreme-ultraviolet light source
Authors: Klas Robert , Kirsche Alexander , Gebhardt Martin , Buldt Joachim , Stark Henning , Hädrich Steffen , Rothhardt Jan , Limpert Jens
Published: April 2021

High harmonic generation (HHG) enables coherent extreme-ultraviolet (XUV) radiation with ultra-short pulse duration in a table-top setup. This has already enabled a plethora of applications. Nearly all of these applications would benefit from a high photon flux to increase the signal-to-noise ratio and decrease measurement times. In addition, shortest pulses are desired to investigate fastest dynamics in fields as diverse as physics, biology, chemistry and material sciences. In this work, the up-to-date most powerful table-top XUV source with 12.9 ± 3.9 mW in a single harmonic line at 26.5 eV is demonstrated via HHG of a frequency-doubled and post-compressed fibre laser. At the same time the spectrum supports a Fourier-limited pulse duration of sub-6 fs in the XUV, which allows accessing ultrafast dynamics with an order of magnitude higher photon flux than previously demonstrated. This concept will greatly advance and facilitate applications of XUV radiation in science and technology and enable photon-hungry ultrafast studies.
Histology of larval eye-antennal disks and cephalic ganglia of Drosophila cultured in vitro
Authors: Schneider Imogene
Published: April 2021

A description is given of the histological development of eye-antennal disks and cephalic ganglia of Drosophila melanogaster cultured in vitro for varying lengths of time. The eye-antennal disks do not evaginate but move only to a position normally attained in the late prepupal stage. The relative competence of the various cephalic organs to undergo differentiation is as follows (descending order) : antennal disks, eye disks, brain lobes, ventral ganglion. Possible explanations for this difference in differentiation capacity are given. In general, if a developmental sequence takes place in vivo within 24 h after puparium formation, the same sequence occurs in vitro without a serious time-lag. After this period, however, an interval of from 3 to 9 days is necessary for comparable development.
The Effect of Aerobic Training and Increasing Nonexercise Physical Activity on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
Authors: SWIFT DAMON L. , NEVELS TYARA R. , SOLAR CHELSEY A. , BROPHY PATRICIA M. , MCGEE JOSHUA E. , BREWER SAVANNA B. , CLARK ANGELA , HOUMARD JOSEPH A. , LUTES LESLEY D.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Epidemiological studies suggest that sedentary behavior is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality independent of meeting physical activity guidelines. However, limited evidence of this relationship is available from prospective interventions. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the combined effect of aerobic training and increasing nonexercise physical activity on body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods

Obese adults (N = 45) were randomized to 6 months of aerobic training (AERO), aerobic training and increasing nonexercise physical activity (~3000 steps above baseline levels; AERO-PA), or a control (CON) group. The AERO and AERO-PA groups performed supervised aerobic training (3–4 times per week). The AERO-PA group wore Fitbit One accelerometers and received behavioral coaching to increase nonexercise physical activity.

Results

There was a larger increase in fitness in the AERO-PA group (0.27 L·min−1; confidence interval (CI), 0.16 to 0.40 L·min−1) compared with the AERO group (0.09 L·min−1; CI, −0.04 to 0.22 L·min−1) and the CON group (0.01; CI, −0.11 to 0.12 L·min−1). Although significant findings were not observed in the entire study sample, when the analysis was restricted to participants compliant to the intervention (n = 33), we observed significant reductions in waist circumference, percent weight loss, body fat, 2-h glucose, and 2-h insulin in comparison to the CON group (P < 0.05), but not the AERO group. Furthermore, linear regression models showed that change in steps was associated with 21% and 26% of the variation in percent weight loss and percent fat loss, respectively.

Conclusions

Increasing nonexercise physical activity with aerobic training may represent a viable strategy to augment the fitness response in comparison to aerobic training alone and has promise for other health indicators.
Ο ρόλος του γονιδίου DLL-4 (Delta Like Ligand 4) στον καρκίνο του ενδομητρίου
Authors: Φασουλάκης Ζαχαρίας
Published: April 2021

Η οδός σηματοδότησης Notch ελέγχει την κανονική εμβρυϊκή ανάπτυξη και την ομοιόσταση των ιστών πολλών τύπων κυττάρων. Ρυθμίζει τον πολλαπλασιασμό, τη διαφοροποίηση και τον κυτταρικό θάνατο, μέσω σηματοδότησης μικρής εμβέλειας μεταξύ γειτονικών κυττάρων που έρχονται σε επαφή. Το μονοπάτι Notch έχει επίσης εμπλακεί κομβικά στην παθοβιολογία μιας ποικιλίας κακοηθειών, που ρυθμίζει την έναρξη την ανάπτυξη, καθώς και τα πρώτα στάδια της εξέλιξης του καρκίνου, προσαρμόζοντας τα κυτταρικά προγράμματα και την αγγειογένεση. Ο Delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4), ένας από τους πέντε συνδέτες σηματοδότησης του συστήματος Notch στα θηλαστικά, έχει σημαντική λειτουργία στη συνολική εξέλιξη του καρκίνου. Συγκεκριμένα, οι αλληλουχίες των γονιδιακών μεταλλάξεων του Notch και ειδικά αυτή του DLL4 έχουν εντοπιστεί σε αρκετούς όγκους, συμπεριλαμβανομένου του καρκίνου του μαστού, των ωοθηκών και του τραχήλου της μήτρας, αποκαλύπτοντας πληροφορίες σχετικά με την εξέλιξη των συγκεκριμένων τύπων καρκίνου καθώς και τον ουσιαστικό ρόλο του DLL4 στην ανάπτυξη του γυναικολογικού καρκίνου. Η παρούσα διατριβή ερευνά τον ρόλο του DLL4 στην εξέλιξη του καρκίνου του ενδομητρίου. Εξετάσαμε την έκφραση του DLL4 στο αίμα και στους ενδομητρικούς ιστούς 33 γυναικών που διαγνώστηκαν με καρκίνο του ενδομητρίου. Τα αποτελέσματα απέδειξαν ότι η έκφρασης του DLL4 στα αγγεία μειώθηκε στις εσώτερες περιοχές του όγκου. Προτείνουμε ότι η έκφραση DLL4 μειώνεται στις δυσμενείς μεταβολικά (υποξικές και όξινες) συνθήκες του εσωτερικού του όγκου, διαταράσσοντας έτσι την ικανότητα επιβίωση των αγγείων του όγκου στις κεντρικές περιοχές του όγκου. Η εμπλοκή άλλων σηματοδοτικών μονοπατιών στην ανάπτυξη αυτού του καρκίνου είναι ενδεχόμενη και απαιτείται περαιτέρω διερεύνηση.
Sustainable data analysis with Snakemake
Authors: Mölder Felix , Jablonski Kim Philipp , Letcher Brice , Hall Michael B. , Tomkins-Tinch Christopher H. , Sochat Vanessa , Forster Jan , Lee Soohyun , Twardziok Sven O. , Kanitz Alexander , Wilm Andreas , Holtgrewe Manuel , Rahmann Sven , Nahnsen Sven , Köster Johannes
Published: April 2021

Data analysis often entails a multitude of heterogeneous steps, from the application of various command line tools to the usage of scripting languages like R or Python for the generation of plots and tables. It is widely recognized that data analyses should ideally be conducted in a reproducible way. Reproducibility enables technical validation and regeneration of results on the original or even new data. However, reproducibility alone is by no means sufficient to deliver an analysis that is of lasting impact (i.e., sustainable) for the field, or even just one research group. We postulate that it is equally important to ensure adaptability and transparency. The former describes the ability to modify the analysis to answer extended or slightly different research questions. The latter describes the ability to understand the analysis in order to judge whether it is not only technically, but methodologically valid.

Here, we analyze the properties needed for a data analysis to become reproducible, adaptable, and transparent. We show how the popular workflow management system Snakemake can be used to guarantee this, and how it enables an ergonomic, combined, unified representation of all steps involved in data analysis, ranging from raw data processing, to quality control and fine-grained, interactive exploration and plotting of final results.
Change in the criteria for hypertension based on a Peruvian population: a study based on the recent American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guidelines
Authors: Mejia Christian R , Failoc-Rojas Virgilio E. , Vargas Mariela , Cárdenas Matlin M , Miñan-Tapia Armando , Aguilar Rodrigo , Correa Ricardo
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology has published  new guidelines for hypertension in 2017. These guidelines change the criteria to classify patients with hypertension. There has not  yet been a study that analyzes the consequences of these changes in developing countries. The objective of our study was to characterize changes in the classification of hypertension with the new guidelines among Peruvian patients and to determine the factors associated with being newly diagnosed as hypertensive.

Methods: An analytical cross-sectional investigation was carried out, which was based on the secondary analysis of the data of hypertension. We compared certain variables including using antihypertensive medication, region, and other sociodemographic characteristics. We performed a descriptive analysis of the variables shown as frequency and percentage. P values ​​that were less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant, obtained using a multivariate analysis.

Results: Of the 5,615 patients in this cohort, with the old criteria 4,915 (87.5%) did not have the diagnosis of hypertension; however, with the new criteria 1,415 (25%) will be diagnosed with hypertension. 467 (9%) of patients who were not taking medications and 85 (32%) of patients who were taking medications will switch from having high-normal blood pressure to grade 1 hypertension, with the new guideline. The recent diagnosis of hypertension was associated with sex (p <0.001), age (p <0.001), being overweight (p <0.001), physical activity (p = 0.010), smoking (p = 0.031), and a history of diabetes mellitus (p <0.001). When adjusted for pharmacotherapy, only sex (p <0.001), age (p <0.001), being overweight (p <0.001), and physical activity (p = 0.001) remained statistically significant.

Conclusions: The new criteria increased the percentage of  patients that now will be classified with hypertension. This should be accompanied by effective politics in education, surveillance, and adequate treatment of the health care system.
Developing open-source software for bioimage analysis: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Levet Florian , Carpenter Anne E. , Eliceiri Kevin W. , Kreshuk Anna , Bankhead Peter , Haase Robert
Published: April 2021

Fast-paced innovations in imaging have resulted in single systems producing exponential amounts of data to be analyzed. Computational methods developed in computer science labs have proven to be crucial for analyzing these data in an unbiased and efficient manner, reaching a prominent role in most microscopy studies. Still, their use usually requires expertise in bioimage analysis, and their accessibility for life scientists has therefore become a bottleneck.

Open-source software for bioimage analysis has developed to disseminate these computational methods to a wider audience, and to life scientists in particular. In recent years, the influence of many open-source tools has grown tremendously, helping tens of thousands of life scientists in the process. As creators of successful open-source bioimage analysis software, we here discuss the motivations that can initiate development of a new tool, the common challenges faced, and the characteristics required for achieving success.
Sustainable insulating foams based on recycled polyurethanes from construction and demolition wastes
Authors: Elorza Edurne , Aranberri Ibon , Zhou Xiangming , Kastiukas Gediminas , Alduncin Juan Antonio
Published: April 2021

Background: Polyurethane (PU) foams contained in construction and demolition wastes (CDW) represent a great environmental impact, since they usually end in landfill or incineration processes. The goal of this work is to develop a way to formulate PU foams, maintaining (or ever improving) their performance, by the re-use of those industrial wastes. This procedure will allow minimize both the volume of disposal to be treated by other ways and the amount of pristine raw material needed to produce new PU foams.

Methods: In this work, new rigid and soft polyurethane (PU) foams have been formulated with addition of recycled PU foams coming from demolition of buildings. Density, Fourier transform infrared analysis, compression properties and thermal conductivity were measured to characterize the resulting foams.

Results: The work showed that addition of filler coming from recycled PU foams should be limited to low percentages, in order to allow good foam evolution from the reactants. Thermal conductivity values of modified rigid foams are worse than those of pristine foam, which is undesirable for thermal insulation purposes; however, in the case of soft foams, this parameter improved to some extent with low levels of recycled PU foam addition.

Conclusions: The studied procedure could contribute to reduce the thermal conductivity of pristine soft PU foam, which would be of interest for applications where thermal insulation matters.
Detrimental Impact of Digitalization on Pupils’ Personality Traits and Physiological Development
Authors: Kalenova A.
Published: April 2021

Introduction. The article aims to examine the problems pertaining to personality traits and physiological development caused by the digital transformation of education. Education is one of the main components of a society’s social structure and is constantly subject to changes under external factors. One of these factors is digitalization, which has an ambiguous impact on the abovementioned process.

Research methodology. The methodological basis of the research consists of general scientific methods such as synthesis, analysis, comparison, as well as special research methods such as content analysis of official documents.

Results. In the course of the research the author comes to the conclusion that not only does the digitalization of education create new opportunities for learning but also gives rise to problems that can potentially affect the development of pupils' personalities and their health. These include as follows: introduction of untested technologies, of which the impact has not yet been scientifically proven; deterioration of writing, reading, speaking as well as other socially important skills, sight impairments, computer addiction and IAD, which can generally lead to the development of the so-called 'digital dementia'.

It should be noted that not enough research on the impact of digital technologies on the mental and physical health of children is available at the moment. Nor are there many scientific investigations concerning the safety and effectiveness of learning by means of digital environment. The introduction of digital technologies raises concerns about their impact on pupils’ health and on society as a whole; there are discussions about the role of teachers in the educational process as well.
Education of the Digital Generation: Relying on Traditions and Taking into Account Modern Trends (on the Example of Russia and Kazakhstan)
Authors: Abylkasymova A. , Shishov Sergey , Kal'ney V.
Published: April 2021

The article presents the results of the analysis of the formation of moral norms in older adolescents in Russia and Kazakhstan. The authors posed the following questions: do the modern system of education in the digital society of Russia and Kazakhstan have prerequisites based on the historical traditions of our countries? What are the current trends in the modernization of the system of education in vocational education, characteristic of the digital society? Are there any justifications for the feasibility of forming a system of education of modern professional personnel for the digital economy based on the traditional principles of the system of education of professional personnel in Russia and Kazakhstan? It is shown that in adolescence it is a moral act that characterizes the formation of moral consciousness. The actions of a teenager are determined during this period by the recognition of responsibility, and not by the expectation of approval, which was typical for an earlier age period. Many adolescents have a high situational variability, adherence to diametrically opposite positions. Here is the violation of principles, and intolerance to the opinions of other people, and the demonstration of passivity in the violation of the rights of others, and the justification of immoral actions by profit. The authors proceed from the understanding that now teachers are educating those young people who have a completely different perception of reality, their thinking, moral norms, a new culture, and ways of communication. At the same time, no one removes from the modern teacher the task of transmitting to the young the existing moral and ethical norms that originate in the previous period of education.
Organizational Loyalty as a Basic Component of Effective Professional Activity of an Employee in the Organization
Authors: Shcherbakova O. , Sklyadneva V. , Sazhina A.
Published: April 2021

The article deals with the organizational loyalty of employees

as one of the main components of effective professional

activity. The emphasis is made on the interrelation of organizational

loyalty and such individual characteristics of an employee as

motivation to professional activity, subjective job satisfaction and

locus of control.

Psychological features of the subject of activity influence the content of organizational loyalty: increased responsibility for the effectiveness of professional work of subjects of professional interaction; creative approach to organization and management when solving professional tasks; peculiarities of communication in the process of solving production tasks. Because of empirical research, the conclusion is made that the majority of employees are satisfied with their professional activity in the given organization. Such components of UT as satisfaction with achievements in work, satisfaction with relations with employees, level of pretensions, and also preference of carried out work to high earnings are expressed in them to the greatest degree.