bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tensile Behavior of High-Strength Stainless Steel Wire Rope (HSSSWR)-Reinforced ECC
Authors: Wang Xinling , Yang Guanghua , Qian Wenwen , Li Ke , Zhu Juntao
Published: November 2021

Engineered cementitious composites (ECC) show the distinguished characteristics of high post-cracking resistance and ductility. High-strength stainless steel wire rope (HSSSWR) has been successfully used for restoring or strengthening of existing structures. By combining the advantages of these two materials, a new composite system formed by embedding HSSSWR into ECC was proposed and expected to be a promising engineering material for repair or strengthening of structures. To investigate the tensile failure mechanism and mechanical properties of HSSSWR-reinforced ECC, an experimental study on 27 HSSSWR-reinforced ECC plates was conducted considering the effects of the reinforcement ratio of longitudinal HSSSWRs, formula of ECC and width of the plate. Test results revealed that HSSSWR-reinforced ECC exhibit superior post-cracking resistance, deformation capacity and crack-width control capacity. Increasing the reinforcement ratio of longitudinal HSSSWRs can effectively enhance the tensile strength, crack-width control capacity, deformation capacity and tensile toughness of HSSSWR-reinforced ECC. Adding thickener in ECC can significantly improve the crack-width control capacity and deformation capacity of HSSSWR-reinforced ECC due to enhancing uniform distribution of polyvinyl alcohol fibers, but would slightly reduce the cracking stress and maximum tensile stress by bringing small bubbles in the matrix. The tensile properties of HSSSWR-reinforced ECC plates are almost not affected by varying the plate width. Besides, a tensile constitutive model was developed for charactering the stress–strain relationship of HSSSWR-reinforced ECC in tension. Based on mechanical theories and failure characteristics of HSSSWR-reinforced ECC, the model parameters were determined, and calculation equations of cracking stress and tensile strength were proposed. The accuracy of the developed model and calculation equations was verified by test results.
Detection of glucose-derived d- and l-lactate in cancer cells by the use of a chiral NMR shift reagent
Authors: Suh Eul Hyun , Geraldes Carlos F. G. C. , Chirayil Sara , Faubert Brandon , Ayala Raul , DeBerardinis Ralph J. , Sherry A. Dean
Published: November 2021

Background

Excessive lactate production, a hallmark of cancer, is largely formed by the reduction of pyruvate via lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to l-lactate. Although d-lactate can also be produced from glucose via the methylglyoxal pathway in small amounts, less is known about the amount of d-lactate produced in cancer cells. Since the stereoisomers of lactate cannot be distinguished by conventional 1H NMR spectroscopy, a chiral NMR shift reagent was used to fully resolve the 1H NMR resonances of d- and l-lactate.

Methods

The production of l-lactate from glucose and d-lactate from methylglyoxal was first demonstrated in freshly isolated red blood cells using the chiral NMR shift reagent, YbDO3A-trisamide. Then, two different cell lines with high GLO1 expression (H1648 and H 1395) were selected from a panel of over 80 well-characterized human NSCLC cell lines, grown to confluence in standard tissue culture media, washed with phosphate-buffered saline, and exposed to glucose in a buffer for 4 h. After 4 h, a small volume of extracellular fluid was collected and mixed with YbDO3A-trisamide for analysis by 1H NMR spectroscopy.

Results

A suspension of freshly isolated red blood cells exposed to 5mM glucose produced l-lactate as expected but very little d-lactate. To evaluate the utility of the chiral NMR shift reagent, methylglyoxal was then added to red cells along with glucose to stimulate the production of d-lactate via the glyoxalate pathway. In this case, both d-lactate and l-lactate were produced and their NMR chemical shifts assigned. NSCLC cell lines with different expression levels of GLO1 produced both l- and d-lactate after incubation with glucose and glutamine alone. A GLO1-deleted parental cell line (3553T3) showed no production of d-lactate from glucose while re-expression of GLO1 resulted in higher production of d-lactate.

Conclusions

The shift-reagent-aided NMR technique demonstrates that d-lactate is produced from glucose in NSCLC cells via the methylglyoxal pathway. The biological role of d-lactate is uncertain but a convenient method for monitoring d-lactate production could provide new insights into the biological roles of d- versus l-lactate in cancer metabolism.
The comparative effect of group dynamic assessment (GDA) and computerized dynamic assessment (C-DA) on Iranian upper-intermediate EFL learners’ speaking complexity, accuracy, and fluency (CAF)
Authors: Ghahderijani Behnoosh Heshmat , Namaziandost Ehsan , Tavakoli Mona , Kumar Tribhuwan , Magizov Rustem
Published: November 2021

This study attempted to check the impact of two dynamic assessment (DA) models on speaking CAF. DA, as opposed to static assessment, is conceived as an interactive approach to assessment that integrates teaching and testing into a unified instructional engagement. To achieve the goals of this research, a convenience sample of 90 upper-intermediate male EFL learners that were randomly assigned into GDA, a C-DA, and a non-DA control group participated in the study. Before carrying out the treatment, a speaking pretest was administered to all three groups and their CAF scores were collected. Following that, the treatment using the aforementioned DA and non-DA conventional models was completed in 16 sessions. To check the impact of the treatment, a speaking post-test was given to the groups at the end of the study. Data analysis using ANOVA showed that C-DA and G-DA could significantly increase speaking CAF than the conventional non-DA instruction with C-DA being significantly better than G-DA. The results of this research propose that implementing DA, especially C-DA by the teachers, can enhance the speaking CAF of the L2 learners.
High diagnostic performance of independent alpha-synuclein seed amplification assays for detection of early Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Russo Marco J. , Orru Christina D. , Concha-Marambio Luis , Giaisi Simone , Groveman Bradley R. , Farris Carly M. , Holguin Bret , Hughson Andrew G. , LaFontant David-Erick , Caspell-Garcia Chelsea , Coffey Christopher S. , Mollon Jennifer , Hutten Samantha J. , Merchant Kalpana , Heym Roland G. , Soto Claudio , Caughey Byron , Kang Un Jung
Published: November 2021

Alpha-synuclein seed amplification assays (αSyn-SAAs) are promising diagnostic tools for Parkinson’s disease (PD) and related synucleinopathies. They enable detection of seeding-competent alpha-synuclein aggregates in living patients and have shown high diagnostic accuracy in several PD and other synucleinopathy patient cohorts. However, there has been confusion about αSyn-SAAs for their methodology, nomenclature, and relative accuracies when performed by various laboratories. We compared αSyn-SAA results obtained from three independent laboratories to evaluate reproducibility across methodological variations. We utilized the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) cohort, with DATSCAN data available for comparison, since clinical diagnosis of early de novo PD is critical for neuroprotective trials, which often use dopamine transporter imaging to enrich their cohorts. Blinded cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples for a randomly selected subset of PPMI subjects (30 PD, 30 HC, and 20 SWEDD), from both baseline and year 3 collections for the PD and HC groups (140 total CSF samples) were analyzed in parallel by each lab according to their own established and optimized αSyn-SAA protocols. The αSyn-SAA results were remarkably similar across laboratories, displaying high diagnostic performance (sensitivity ranging from 86 to 96% and specificity from 93 to 100%). The assays were also concordant for samples with results that differed from clinical diagnosis, including 2 PD patients determined to be clinically inconsistent with PD at later time points. All three assays also detected 2 SWEDD subjects as αSyn-SAA positive who later developed PD with abnormal DAT-SPECT. These multi-laboratory results confirm the reproducibility and value of αSyn-SAA as diagnostic tools, illustrate reproducibility of the assay in expert hands, and suggest that αSyn-SAA has potential to provide earlier diagnosis with comparable or superior accuracy to existing methods.
Does arthroscopic patellar denervation with high tibial osteotomy improve anterior knee pain?
Authors: Said Mohamed Kamel Mohamed , Said Hatem G. , Elkady Hesham , Said Mahmoud Kamel Mohamed , Ramadan Islam Karam-Allah , EL-Radi Mohamed Abd
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Patellofemoral (PF) joint osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of anterior knee pain. Combined PF and medial tibiofemoral (TF) OA is common in older adults. We evaluated the effect of arthroscopic patellar denervation (PD) in patients with combined TF and PFOA after malalignment correction.

Methods

Forty-five patients [females/males, 27/18; age, 30–59 years (45.5 ± 8.50); mean body mass index, 25.15 ± 3.04 kg/m2] were treated in our department from March 2017 to March 2019. The patients were randomised into 2 groups: group A included 22 patients who underwent open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) and arthroscopic PD and group B included 23 patients who underwent OWHTO without denervation. The effect of denervation was statistically and clinically evaluated using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Kujala (anterior knee pain score) score.

Results

After 24 months, 40 patients were available for the final follow-up. The final values of KOOS and the Kujala score were significantly different between the groups (p < 0.001). For group A, the average KOOS improved from 42.73 to 72.38 (p < 0.001) and the Kujala score improved from 42 to 74.1 (p < 0.001), whereas in group B, the average KOOS improved from 39.22 to 56.84 (p < 0.001) and the Kujala score improved from 39.7 to 56.4 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Adding arthroscopic PD to OWHTO relieves anterior knee pain in patients with combined TF and PFOA and improves knee joint function and quality of life.

Level of evidence

Level I prospective randomised control clinical trial.
Detection of planktonic coenzyme factor 430 in a freshwater lake: small-scale analysis for probing archaeal methanogenesis
Authors: Urai Atsushi , Matsushita Makoto , Park Ho-Dong , Imachi Hiroyuki , Ogawara Miyuki , Iwata Hiroki , Kaneko Masanori , Ogawa Nanako O. , Ohkouchi Naohiko , Takano Yoshinori
Published: November 2021

We present the first data describing molecular evidence of planktonic coenzyme factor 430 (hereafter referred to as F430), a key signature of methanogenic archaea, obtained from a water column sample in a freshwater lake in Japan. We report concentrations of native F430 ranging from 6.8–35 × 102 femto mol g-wet−1 and 8.5–86 × 102 femto mol g-wet−1 in the water column and core-top sediment, respectively. Among these profiles, the epimer F430 of the deactivated chemical formula was very low overall in both planktonic and benthic environments. Small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene sequencing revealed that the planktonic microbial community was clearly different from that of the benthic sediment. Planktonic cyanobacteria (e.g., Microcystis) were predominant in the water column, whereas a wide variety of bacteria and archaea, including methanogens (e.g., Methanobacterium, Methanoregula, Methanothrix, Methanosarcina, and Methanocella), were observed in the core-top sediment. These results suggest that the planktonic cyanobacterial community may be rapidly degraded at the water–sediment interface driven by activated benthic microbial heterotrophic processes.

Graphic abstract
Building a culture of engagement at a research centre for childhood disability
Authors: Pozniak Kinga , Buchanan Francine , Cross Andrea , Crowson Jennifer , Galuppi Barb , Grahovac Danijela , Gorter Jan Willem , Hlyva Oksana , Ketelaar Marjolijn , Kraus de Camargo Olaf , Krpan Mesic Manda , Martens Rachel , McCauley Dayle , Nguyen Linda , Palisano Robert J. , Phoenix Michelle , Putterman Connie , Rosenbaum Peter , Sprung Jennifer , Strohm Sonya , Teplicky Rachel , Thomson Donna , Wright Marilyn
Published: November 2021

Background

Engaging patients and family members as partners in research studies has become a widespread practice in healthcare. However, relatively little has been documented about what happens after the research study ends. For example, is patient and family engagement embedded in the wider infrastructure of organizations, and if so how? What are the long-term effects of engaging parents on research teams on the culture of how research is conducted? This study seeks to address these two gaps by examining how a culture of family engagement has been built over time at CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

This study is based on ethnographic research methodology and combines elements of organizational ethnography, interviews, and collaborative auto-ethnography with parent partners, researchers, staff, and trainees.

Results

Since the inception of CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research at McMaster University in 1989, parents have been involved in research studies. Over time, this involvement evolved from being consulted on research studies to undertaking decision-making roles as partners and most recently as co-principal investigators. A growing infrastructure fosters a community of engagement that goes beyond the individual research study, and often beyond CanChild. This infrastructure consists of training, knowledge mobilization and social networking. In addition, the “softer” building blocks of CanChild’s culture of engagement are an openness to learning from others, a commitment to relationship building, and a drive to grow and improve. These values are espoused by the leadership and are instilled in the next generation of researchers to inform both research and clinical work. While some challenges should be acknowledged when researchers and family partners work together on research studies, we identify a number of strategies that we have used in our studies to foster authentic and meaningful family–researcher partnerships.

Conclusion

Engaging patients and families as partners in research constitutes a culture shift in health research, whereby studies about patients and families are carried out with them. Developing a community of engagement that transcends an individual research study is a step towards creating a culture of research that is truly shaped by the people about whom the research is being done.
Comparable prediction of breast cancer risk from a glimpse or a first impression of a mammogram
Authors: Raat E. M. , Farr I. , Wolfe J. M. , Evans K. K.
Published: November 2021

Expert radiologists can discern normal from abnormal mammograms with above-chance accuracy after brief (e.g. 500 ms) exposure. They can even predict cancer risk viewing currently normal images (priors) from women who will later develop cancer. This involves a rapid, global, non-selective process called “gist extraction”. It is not yet known whether prolonged exposure can strengthen the gist signal, or if it is available solely in the early exposure. This is of particular interest for the priors that do not contain any localizable signal of abnormality. The current study compared performance with brief (500 ms) or unlimited exposure for four types of mammograms (normal, abnormal, contralateral, priors). Groups of expert radiologists and untrained observers were tested. As expected, radiologists outperformed naïve participants. Replicating prior work, they exceeded chance performance though the gist signal was weak. However, we found no consistent performance differences in radiologists or naïves between timing conditions. Exposure time neither increased nor decreased ability to identify the gist of abnormality or predict cancer risk. If gist signals are to have a place in cancer risk assessments, more efforts should be made to strengthen the signal.
Structural validity of the Arabic version of the disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) using Rasch measurement model
Authors: Alnahdi Ali H.
Published: November 2021

Background

The disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) is a commonly used region-specific patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) that quantify upper extremity function (activity limitation) and symptoms. Current evidence suggests that measurement properties of the adapted versions of the DASH are not sufficiently examined. The Arabic DASH has evidence supporting its internal consistency, test–retest reliability, construct validity and responsiveness. On the other hand, the validity of the assumed unidimensionality of the Arabic DASH has not been examined previously. The aim of this study was to examine the structural validity of the Arabic DASH in patients with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders using Rasch measurement model.

Methods

Patients with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders were recruited and were asked to complete the Arabic DASH at their initial visit to physical therapy departments. The overall fit of the Arabic DASH to the requirement of the Rasch measurement model was examined using chi-square statistics for item-trait interaction, mean item and person fit residuals. The fit of individual items, thresholds ordering, local dependency, differential item functioning (DIF), and unidimensionality using the t-test approach were also examined.

Results

The Arabic DASH did not fit the Rasch measurement model initially (χ2 = 179.04, p < 0.001) with major breach of local item independence and a pattern of high residual correlations among the activity-related items and among the impairment-related items. Combining items into activity-limitation and impairment testlets accommodated the local dependency and led to satisfactory fit of the Arabic DASH to the requirement of the Rasch measurement model (χ2 = 3.99, p = 0.41).

Conclusions

Rasch measurement model supports the structural validity of the Arabic DASH as a unidimensional measure after the accommodation of local dependency.
Role of neuro-sonography of peripheral nerves as a diagnostic and a differentiation tool of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Mohamed Rana Zakaria Ahmed , Salem Haitham Hamdy , Sakr Hossam Moussa El-Sayed , Afifi Hossam-Eldin Mahmoud , Elsadek Ahmed Mohammed , Fahmy Nagia Aly
Published: November 2021

Background

Motor neuron disease is a heterogeneous group of progressive neurodegenerative disorders, most common of which is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). There are many clinical and radiological criteria to diagnose amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and to differentiate it from other motor neuron disease and neurodegenerative disorders. Neuro-sonography is one of the easily applied tools to diagnose and differentiate ALS. ALS diagnosis is delayed up to 3 years according to some authors due to the wide differential diagnosis, with cervical degeneration being a common misdiagnosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of neuro-sonography in diagnosis and differentiation of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis from other causes of progressive mixed upper and lower motor neuron lesion.

Results

A total neuro-sonography score at a cut-off point (≤ 127) predicted patients with ALS, with good (85%) accuracy, sensitivity = 73% and specificity = 83% (p < 0.01) and Lt median arm score at a cut-off point (≤ 6) predicted patients with ALS, with good (88%) accuracy, sensitivity = 86% and specificity = 86% (p < 0.01) and the median nerve at the arm level was the most sensitive and specific nerve to predict patients with ALS.

Conclusion

Neuro-sonography of peripheral nerves is a recent, noninvasive, accessible technique that can be used in early diagnosis of ALS.
Opportunities for winter prescribed burning in mixed conifer plantations of the Sierra Nevada
Authors: York Robert A. , Levine Jacob , Russell Kane , Restaino Joseph
Published: November 2021

Background

Young, planted forests are particularly vulnerable to wildfire. High severity effects in planted forests translate to the loss of previous reforestation investments and the loss of future ecosystem service gains. We conducted prescribed burns in three ~35-year-old mixed conifer plantations that had previously been masticated and thinned during February in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of winter burning, which is not common in the Sierra Nevada, California.

Results

On average, 59% of fine fuels were consumed and the fires reduced shrub cover by 94%. The average percent of crown volume that was damaged was 25%, with no mortality observed in overstory trees 1 year following the fires. A plot level analysis of the factors of fire effects did not find strong predictors of fuel consumption. Shrub cover was reduced dramatically, regardless of the specific structure that existed in plots. We found a positive relationship between crown damage and the two variables ofPinus ponderosarelative basal area and shrub cover. But these were not particularly strong predictors. An analysis of the weather conditions that have occurred at this site over the past 20 years indicated that there have consistently been opportunities to conduct winter burns. On average, 12 days per winter were feasible for burning using our criteria. Windows of time are short, typically 1 or 2 days, and may occur at any time during the winter season.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that winter burning can be an important piece of broader strategies to reduce wildfire severity in the Sierra Nevada. Preparing forest structures so that they can be more feasible to burn and also preparing burn programs so that they can be nimble enough to burn opportunistically during short windows are key strategies. Both small landowners and large agencies may be able to explore winter burning opportunities to reduce wildfire severity.
Impacts of a single fire event on large, old trees in a grass-invaded arid river system
Authors: Schlesinger Christine A. , Westerhuis Erin L.
Published: November 2021

Background

Large old trees are keystone structures of terrestrial ecosystems that provide unique habitat resources for wildlife. Their widespread decline worldwide has serious implications for biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. In arid regions, large trees are relatively uncommon and often restricted to areas with elevated soil moisture and nutrients. Introduced grasses, now pervasive in many dryland environments, also thrive in such areas and are promoting more frequent and intense fire, potentially threatening the persistence of large trees. Here we report on the impact of a single wildfire on large river red gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensisDehnh.) in arid riparian woodland invaded by buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliarisL.), a serious invader of desert ecosystems worldwide. In 2018, 266 trees with > 80 cm equivalent trunk diameter were mapped at six sites to provide a ‘pre-fire’ baseline. Within a year, the sites were impacted by a large, unprecedented wildfire that burnt an area of 660 km2ha in 15 days. Sites were resurveyed in February 2019 to assess the fate of the trees. Reference to fire severity, calculated from remote-sensed imagery, is provided for additional context.

Results

In total, 67 trees, 27% of all large trees at the sites were destroyed. If trees in unburnt patches are excluded, 54% of trees exposed to the fire were destroyed and the remainder lost on average 79% of their canopy.

Conclusions

This severe detrimental effect of a single fire, on trees estimated to be centuries old, is indicative of tree-loss occurring across remote arid Australia in habitats where fire is now fuelled predominantly by invasive grasses. Large volumes of novel grass fuels along creeklines in combination with extreme weather events were major factors driving the spread, extent and impacts of the wildfire we report on and are causing a shift from relatively uncommon and predictable, rainfall-dependent large wildfires to large, severe fires that can occur anytime. We predict further decline in the abundance of large trees from similar fires will occur widely throughout arid Australia over the next decade with substantial long-term impacts on multiple species. New strategies are urgently required to manage fire in invaded arid ecosystems to better protect large trees and the critical resources they provide.
Momordica charantia nanoparticles promote mitochondria biogenesis in the pancreas of diabetic-induced rats: gene expression study
Authors: Elekofehinti Olusola Olalekan , Ayodele Olusola Christianah , Iwaloye Opeyemi
Published: November 2021

Background

Mitochondria dysfunction is one of the clinical features of diabetes mellitus (DM), which is a hallmark of insulin resistance (IR). This study investigates the therapeutic effect of Momordica charantia nanoparticles on mitochondria biogenesis in diabetic-induced rats. Forty-two adult wistar rats (average weight of 189 ± 10.32) were grouped as follows: STZ (65 mg/kg), control group, STZ + silver nitrate (10 mg/kg), STZ + M. charantia silver nanoparticles (50 mg/kg), STZ + metformin (100 mg/kg), and STZ + M. charantia aqueous extract (100 mg/kg). DM was induced intraperitoneal using freshly prepared solution of STZ (65 mg/kg), and rats with fasting blood sugar (FBS) above 250 mg/dl after 72 h of induction were considered diabetic. Treatment started after the third day of induction and lasted for 11 days. Effect of M. charantia nanoparticles on glucose level and pancreatic expression of genes involved in mitochondria biogenesis (PGC-1α, AMPK, GSK-3β, PPARϒ), inflammation (IL-1B, TNFα) and glucose sensitivity (PI3K, AKT, PTEN Insulin and Glut2) were quantified using reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results

The results showed that M. charantia nanoparticles promote mitochondria biogenesis, glucose sensitivity and reverse inflammation in the pancreas of diabetes rat model through upregulation of PGC-1α, AMPK, PPARϒ, AKT, Insulin and Glut2 mRNA expression and downregulation of GSK-3β, PI3K, IL-1B and TNFα mRNA expression in the pancreas of diabetic rats.

Conclusion

This study thus concludes that M. charantia nanoparticles may provide effective therapeutics against mitochondria dysfunction in the pancreas of diabetic model.
Neuropathic pain in primary knee osteoarthritis patients: correlation with physical function, quality of life, disease severity, and serum beta nerve growth factor levels
Authors: Kamel Shereen R. , Ibrahim Radwa S. , Moens Hend M. , Mohammed Rania M.
Published: November 2021

Background

Neuropathic mechanisms are thought to play a role in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) pain. Neuropathic pain questionnaires can promote diagnosis of a neuropathic component. Thus, we aimed to assess the frequency of neuropathic pain in primary KOA patients (using clinical questionnaires) and to investigate its correlation with socio-demographic factors, physical function, quality of life, disease severity, and serum beta nerve growth factor (β-NGF) levels.

Results

Seventy primary KOA patients were included. Neuropathic pain was detected in 52.9% of patients based on Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions (DN4) questionnaire and in 38.6% of patients based on Leeds assessment neuropathic pain symptoms and signs questionnaire (LANSS). Serum β-NGF levels were significantly higher in KOA patients than controls (P<0.0001), and in KOA patients with neuropathic pain compared with patients with non-neuropathic pain. DN4 score was positively correlated with Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain, stiffness, and physical function, and it was also negatively correlated with Osteoarthritis knee hip quality of life questionnaire (OAKHQOL) pain scores (rs=0.459, P<0.001; rs= 0.258, P= 0.031; rs= 0.307, P= 0.010; rs = −0.337, P= 0.004, respectively), while LANSS scale was positively correlated with symptom duration, WOMAC stiffness, Lequesne pain, and Lequesne index (rs= 0.260, P= 0.020; rs= 0.343, P= 0.004; rs= 0.344, P= 0.004; rs= 0.322, P= 0.007) and negatively correlated with OAKHQOL physical, OAKHQOL mental health, OAKHQOL social support, and total OAKHQOL scores (rs= −0.258, P= 0.031;rs= −0.254, P= 0.034; rs= −0.283, P= 0.018; rs= −0.261, P= 0.029 respectively).

Conclusions

Neuropathic pain symptoms are frequent in primary KOA patients. KOA patients with neuropathic pain have worse quality of life, extreme disability, and higher serum β-NGF levels. Nerve growth factor inhibitors could have a potential role for not only relieving pain in KOA patients but also improving functional disability and quality of life in these patients.
A review of epidemiology, clinical features and disease course, transmission dynamics, and neutralization efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Deb Paroma , Molla Md. Maruf Ahmed , Saif-Ur-Rahman KM , Das Manik Chandra , Das Debashish
Published: November 2021

Background

After the first detection in November 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has spread rapidly over the continents and started the pandemic of the millennium. In addition to several novels and repurposed monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as a therapeutic option against COVID-19, scientists from across the world have developed several candidate vaccines, developed mainly targeting the Wuhan strain, with very promising results to combat this pandemic. Unfortunately like any RNA viruses, SARS CoV-2 has also gone through the accumulation of hundreds and thousands of mutations in their genome lead to the development of several variants of concerns (VOC) and variants of interests (VOI), resulting in increased transmissibility and virulence of the virus, along with their capacity to escape cross-protection. Seemingly, the main hindrance of containing this pandemic right now is the effectiveness of currently available vaccines and mAbs against newly emerging variants. Therefore, it is important to monitor variants epidemiology, transmission dynamics, clinical characteristics, as well as their immune evasion capacity to implement appropriate vaccine strategy and other containment measures.

Body

In this review, we tried to focus on variants characteristics and to what extent they can escape immunity, provided by both available vaccinated sera and convalescent sera. A stringent literature review was performed using various databases, mentioned in the methodology portion. The current geographical distribution of these variants of SARS CoV-2 has been presented using a heat map. Findings from published articles comparing these variants, in terms of genome epidemiology, transmissibility, viral load dynamics, and association with different waves have been described briefly. Due strength was given while describing variants neutralization potency against current vaccines, mAbs, and also against convalescent sera. Data from both clinical trials and in vitro/ex-vivo studies have been discussed here. Comparative findings from several articles were brought into one concise paper. After careful reviewing of all the available data, it was clear that, without hesitation, we should strengthen our vaccination strategy, because the severity of COVID 19 is reasonably lower, irrespective of variants and vaccine used.

Conclusion

We hope that many falsified myths and beliefs regarding vaccine immunity and emerging variants will be clarified in light of this available evidence, which we summarized in our paper.
Severe Hypoglycemia and Incident Heart Failure Among Adults With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Echouffo-Tcheugui Justin B , Kaze Arnaud D , Fonarow Gregg C , Dagogo-Jack Sam
Published: November 2021

Context

The association of severe hypoglycemia on the incidence of heart failure (HF) is unclear.

Objective

We evaluated the association of severe hypoglycemia with incident HF among individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We included participants with type 2 diabetes from the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) study. Severe hypoglycemia episodes were assessed during the initial 24 months following randomization and defined using 2 methods: (1) symptomatic, severe hypoglycemic event requiring medical assistance (first definition); or (2) requiring any assistance (second definition). Participants without HF at baseline and during the first 24 months of the study were prospectively followed for incident HF hospitalization. Multivariable Cox regression was used to generate adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for the association of severe hypoglycemia and incident HF.

Results

Among 9208 participants (mean age 63 years, 38% female, 62% White), 365 had ≥ 1 episode of severe hypoglycemic. Over a median follow-up duration of 3 years, there were 249 incident HF events. After multivariable adjustment for relevant confounders, participants with severe hypoglycemia requiring medical assistance had a 68% higher relative risk of incident HF (HR 1.68; 95% CI, 1.06-2.66), as compared with individuals who never experienced any episode of hypoglycemia. Severe hypoglycemia requiring any assistance was also associated with a 49% higher relative risk of HF (HR 1.49; 95% CI, 1.01-2.21).

Conclusion

In a large cohort of adults with type 2 diabetes, severe hypoglycemia was independently associated with greater risk of incident HF.
Health Care Transition From Pediatric- to Adult-Focused Care in X-linked Hypophosphatemia: Expert Consensus
Authors: Dahir Kathryn , Dhaliwal Ruban , Simmons Jill , Imel Erik A , Gottesman Gary S , Mahan John D , Prakasam Gnanagurudasan , Hoch Allison I , Ramesan Prameela , Díaz-González de Ferris Maria
Published: November 2021

Context

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is an inherited skeletal disorder that can lead to lifelong deleterious musculoskeletal and functional consequences. Although often perceived as a childhood condition, children and adults both experience the negative effects of XLH. Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) benefit from effective health care transition (HCT) preparation to support the transfer from pediatric- to adult-focused care. Whereas transition timelines, milestones, and educational tools exist for some chronic conditions, they do not meet the unique needs of patients with XLH.

Evidence Acquisition

To produce the first expert recommendations on HCT preparation for AYAs with XLH developed by clinical care investigators and transition experts, a formal literature search was conducted and discussed in an advisory board meeting in July 2020. A modified Delphi method was used to refine expert opinion and facilitate a consensus position.

Evidence Synthesis

We identified the need for psychosocial and access-related resources for disease education, genetic counseling, family planning, and AYA emancipation from caregiver-directed care. Additionally, we recognized that it is necessary to facilitate communication with patients through channels familiar and accessible to AYAs and teach patients to advocate for their health care/access to specialists.

Conclusion

Clear HCT preparation guidelines and treatment-related goals are defined. Individualized timelines and practical strategies for HCT preparation are proposed to optimize health outcomes resulting from continuous clinical care throughout the patient lifecycle. We provide an expert consensus statement describing a tailored HCT preparation program specifically for AYAs with XLH to aid in the effective transfer from pediatric- to adult-focused health care.
Sporadic Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1B in Monozygotic Twins: Insights Into the Pathogenesis of Methylation Defects
Authors: Keidai Yamato , Iwasaki Yorihiro , Iwasaki Kanako , Honjo Sachiko , Bastepe Murat , Hamasaki Akihiro
Published: November 2021

Context

Sporadic pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B (sporPHP1B) is an imprinting disease without a defined genetic cause, characterized by broad methylation changes in differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of the GNAS gene.

Objective

This work aims to provide insights into the causative event leading to the GNAS methylation defects through comprehensive molecular genetic analyses of a pair of female monozygotic twins concordant for sporPHP1B who were conceived naturally, that is, without assisted reproductive techniques.

Methods

Using the leukocyte genome of the twins and family members, we performed targeted bisulfite sequencing, methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme (MSRE)-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), whole-genome sequencing (WGS), high-density single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array, and Sanger sequencing.

Results

Methylation analyses by targeted bisulfite sequencing and MSRE-qPCR revealed almost complete losses of methylation at the GNAS AS, XL, and A/B DMRs and a gain of methylation at the NESP55 DMR in the twins, but not in other family members. Except for the GNAS locus, we did not find apparent methylation defects at other imprinted genome loci of the twins. WGS, SNP array, and Sanger sequencing did not detect the previously described genetic defects associated with familial PHP1B. Sanger sequencing also ruled out any novel genetic alterations in the entire NESP55/AS region. However, the analysis of 28 consecutive SNPs could not exclude the possibility of paternal heterodisomy in a span of 22 kb comprising exon NESP55 and AS exon 5.

Conclusion

Our comprehensive analysis of a pair of monozygotic twins with sporPHP1B ruled out all previously described genetic causes. Twin concordance indicates that the causative event was an imprinting error earlier than the timing of monozygotic twinning.
Associations between sexual orientation, financial security and relationships with family and peers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria
Authors: Folayan Morenike Oluwatoyin , Ibigbami Olanrewaju , Aly Nourhan M , Zuñiga Roberto Ariel Abeldaño , Abeldaño Giuliana Florencia , Ara Eshrat , Ellakany Passent , Idigbe Ifeoma , Ishabiyi Anthonia Omotola , Jafer Mohammed , Khan Abeedha Tu-Allah , Khalid Zumama , Lawal Folake Barakat , Lusher Joanne , Nzimande Ntombifuthi P , Popoola Bamidele Olubukola , Quadri Mir Faeq Ali , Roque Mark , Okeibunor Joseph Chukwudi , Brown Brandon , Nguyen Annie Lu
Published: November 2021

Background: This study aimed to determine whether factors associated with financial insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with worsening relationships with family, peers and friends of sexual minorities living in Nigeria.

Methods: Data were collected using an online survey conducted from 29th June to 31st December 2020. The outcome variable was the quality of relationship with family, friends and peers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The explanatory variables were the sexual orientation (lesbian, gay, bisexual, heterosexual), COVID-19 status, and financial security (job loss or reduced/lost wages because of the COVID-19 pandemic). Multilevel logistic regression analysis models with robust estimation were built and used to assess the association between the outcome and explanatory variables. The models were adjusted for sociodemographic profile (age, sex at birth, education status).

Results: Being a sexual minority was associated with higher odds of worsened relationship with family (AOR: 1.49) and friends and peers (AOR: 2.38) during the pandemic. Having COVID-19 symptoms but not getting tested was significantly associated with higher odds of reporting worsening of the relationship with family (AOR: 1.69) and history of job loss (AOR: 1.68), while having formal education (p<0.05) was significantly associated with lower odds of reporting worsening of the relationship with family. The factors significantly associated with higher odds of reporting worsened relationship with friends and peers were testing positive for COVID-19 (AOR: 1.60), reduced wages (AOR: 1.24), and being older (AOR: 1.01). Attaining a college/university education was significantly associated with lower odds of worsened relationship with friends and peers (AOR: 0.31).

Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic may increase the risk of negative disruptions in the relationships with family, friends and peers, especially for sexual minorities. National COVID-19 response programs should include plans to support those who face social disruption in managing the crisis.
Psychological distress and quality of life following provision of vascular imaging results of the coronary and carotid arteries to asymptomatic adults: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Anokye Reindolf , Jackson Ben , Dimmock James , Dickson Joanne M. , Blekkenhorst Lauren C. , Hodgson Jonathan M. , Lewis Joshua R. , Stanley Mandy
Published: November 2021

Background:Non-invasive screening for atherosclerosis or asymptomatic cardiovascular disease of the coronary and carotid arteries is commonly undertaken, and research has been focussed on how results from these screenings lead to behaviour change. However, no review has focused on the effects of these results on psychological distress and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This protocol will outline how a scoping review will be conducted to map all available evidence on psychological distress and/or HRQoL outcomes following the provision of vascular imaging results of the coronary and carotid arteries.

Methods:Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) framework subsequently enhanced by Levac et al. (2010)  and Peters et al (2015, 2017) will guide the scoping review. Databases such as MEDLINE (Clarivate), APA PsychINFO, EMBASE, Social Work Abstracts, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) will be searched using MeSH terms  such as "Coronary stenosis", "Carotid Stenosis", "Psychological Distress" and "Quality of Life" and related terms. Two investigators will screen title and abstract and all articles meeting inclusion criteria will be extracted.  Data on authors, publication year, country of origin, aims/purpose, methodology, intervention, outcome measures as well as key findings that relate to the scoping review questions will be extracted for each included study. The findings will be presented using tables and thematic narrative synthesis. The scoping review will not produce a pooled estimate of the impact of vascular imaging results on psychological distress and HRQoL but will present information from the included studies related to psychological distress and HRQoL.

Conclusion: The review will highlight and address gaps in knowledge and provide direction for future investigations.
Newcastle disease vaccine virus I-2 fails to acquire virulence during repeated passage in vivo
Authors: Bisschop Shahn P.R. , Peters Andrew , Domingue Gil , Pearce Michael C. , Verwey Jeanette , Poolman Petrus
Published: November 2021

Background This study determined whether the naturally attenuated, thermotolerant Newcastle disease vaccine virus I-2 could acquire virulence after five in vivo passages through SPF chickens.

Methods Study design was to international requirements including European Pharmacopoeia, Ph. Eur., v9.0 04/2013:0450, 2013. I-2 Working Seed (WS) was compared with five-times-passaged I-2 WS (5XP WS) in intracerebral pathogenicity index (ICPI), Fo cleavage site sequencing and Safety tests.

Results The first passage series used a 50% brain: 50% tracheal tissue challenge homogenate and was unsuccessful as I-2 was not detected after the fourth passage. A second passage series used 10% brain: 90% tracheal tissue homogenates. I-2 was isolated from tracheal tissue in each passage. However harvested titres were below the minimum challenge level (107 EID50) specified for the ICPI and Safety tests, possibly reflecting I-2’s inherently low pathogenicity (interestingly caecal tonsils yielded significant titres). Given this the WS and 5XP WS comparisons proceeded. ICPI values were 0.104 and 0.073 for the WS group and the 5XP WS group respectively confirming that I-2, whether passaged or not, expressed low pathogenicity. F0 amino-acid sequences for both WS and 5XP WS were identified as 112R-K-Q-G-R-↓-L-I-G119 and so compatible with those of avirulent ND viruses. In safety, no abnormal clinical signs were observed in both groups except for two chicks in the 5XP WS group, where one bird was withdrawn due to a vent prolapse, and another bird died with inconclusive necropsy results.

Conclusions: These data, the issue of low passage titres with little or no virus isolation from brain tissues and the genomic copy approach suggest a need to amend Ph. Eur. v9.0 04/2013:0450, 2013 for naturally attenuated, low pathogenicity vaccine viruses such as I-2. From an international regulatory perspective, the study provides further definitive data demonstrating that Newcastle disease vaccine virus I-2 is safe for use.
Enhanced Secure ATM authentication using NFC Technology and Iris Verification
Authors: Agrawal Smita S , Oza Parita , Biswas Mahima , Choksi Neer
Published: November 2021

In today's world technology has advanced to such an extent that it is interchangeable with connection and convenience. ATM was one of the major breakthroughs, and over the time it has provided better convenience in fulfilling one’s banking needs. Although, there are certain predicaments that such ATM transactions are susceptible too. The conventional PIN based authentication that is presently accustomed in all ATM apparatus is liable to shoulder surfing, hassle in remembering the multiple PIN and the rest. The physical card brings along setbacks in particular, wearing out of the magnetic strip attributable to frequent usage, losing or getting it stolen. Aside from these there are other unlawful activities that are carried upon. The objective of this paper is to present a solution to the above stated problems. In contrast to standard architecture, the proposed solution incorporates NFC enabled smartphones as a substitute for physical card and iris based authentication for PIN.
Anatomical endoscopic enucleation of the prostate for bladder outlet obstruction: a narrative review
Authors: Kim Tae Hyo , Song Phil Hyun
Published: November 2021

Anatomical endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (AEEP) differs from other endoscopic modalities for bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) because it extracts the whole benign prostatic hyperplasia component. AEEP has been launched for almost 40 years as a first-line treatment method for BOO regardless of prostate size according to several guidelines. However, it remains underperformed worldwide. In this review article, we elaborate on the advantages and disadvantages of AEEP compared to other surgical modalities for BOO to investigate its efficacy and safety as a gold standard surgical management option for males with BOO.