bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genital self-image as predictor of sexual dysfunction in women with pelvic organ prolapse in Indonesia
Authors: Djusad Suskhan , Meutia Alfa Putri , Tunggadewi Shirley Anggraini , Sari Yulia Margaretta , Hakim Surahman , Priyatini Tyas , Moegni Fernandi , Santoso Budi Iman
Published: December 2021

Background:

The incidence of sexual dysfunction increases in women with pelvic organ prolapse. In addition to physical factors, other important components that influence each other in sexual dysfunction are psychological aspects and genital self-image. Sociocultural factors also affect individual sexuality and sexual behavior. Until now, there are no data and the relationship between genital self-image and sexual dysfunction in pelvic organ prolapse is not known in Indonesia.

Objective:

This study aims to analyze the correlation of genital self-image with sexual dysfunction in women with pelvic organ prolapse.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 113 consecutive women with pelvic organ prolapse were selected in urogynecology referral centers in Jakarta. Demographic data, physical examination, and guided interviews were filled in to complete the Female Sexual Function Index and Female Genital Self-Image Scale-7 questionnaires. Preliminary research has been carried out in the form of language translation and cultural validation of the Indonesian version of the Female Genital Self-Image Scale-7 questionnaires.

Results:

There is a significant correlation between genital self-image and sexual dysfunction, where the lower Female Genital Self-Image Scale-7 score significantly predicts the lower Female Sexual Function Index score ( p < 0.000; odds ratio: 14.17).

Conclusion:

Genital self-image is the main variable that affects sexual function in women with pelvic organ prolapse. It is necessary to evaluate and treat genital self-image because sexual function is an integrated component of quality of life.
Ethiopia’s commitment towards achieving sustainable development goal on reduction of maternal mortality: There is a long way to go
Authors: Ayele Asnakew Achaw , Tefera Yonas Getaye , East Leah
Published: December 2021

Maternal mortality reduction has been recognized as a key healthcare problem that requires prioritizing in addressing. In 2015, the United Nations has set Sustainable Development Goals to reduce global maternal mortality ratio to 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. Ethiopia as a member country has been working to achieve this Sustainable Development Goals target for the last decades. In this article, we discussed Ethiopia’s commitment towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals in maternal mortality. Furthermore, the trends of maternal mortality rate in Ethiopia during Millennium Development Goals and Sustainable Development Goals are also highlighted. Although maternal mortality has been declining in Ethiopia from 2000 to 2016, the rate of death is still unacceptably high. This requires many efforts now and in future to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals target by 2030.
A Behavioral-Science Framework for Understanding College Campus Sexual Assault
Authors: Gantman Ana P. , Paluck Elizabeth Levy
Published: December 2021

We propose a behavioral-science approach to sexual assault on college campuses. In this framework, people commit assault when aspects of the immediate situation trigger certain psychological states. No set of mental processes or situational configurations is a precise predictor of assault. Instead, the interaction between mental processes and situational configurations predicts when sexual assault is more or less likely to occur. We begin with an illustrative story to show how a behavioral-science approach is relevant to sexual assault. Next, we map out a framework that suggests how behavioral theories of situations and mental processes have been or could be used to describe, predict, and develop ideas for the reduction of sexual assault. Relevant situational configurations include geographical configurations, local situational and informational cues, and situation-based power. Theories of mental processes include person perception, social norms, moral reasoning, and goals. Our framework can be used to demonstrate how “good” people can commit assault and how individuals can and will refrain from assault within institutions with a “bad” record. Compared with previous theories of sexual assault, a behavioral-science framework offers unique understanding and generative methods for addressing sexual assault on college campuses.
Clinical characteristics, predictors and pregnancy outcomes in Indian women with peripartum cardiomyopathy
Authors: Rajan Saroj , Jha Nivedita , Jha Ajay Kumar
Published: December 2021

Background

Predictors, pregnancy and subsequent pregnancy outcomes in women with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) are poorly understood in our geographical region.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 58 women with PPCM diagnosed using criteria by the European Society of Cardiology during 2015 to 2019. The main outcome measures were predictors of left ventricular (LV) recovery. LV recovery was defined as return of LV ejection fraction to over 50%.

Results

Nearly 80% of women had LV recovery during 6 months follow up. Univariate logistic regression revealed LV end diastolic diameter (adjusted odds ratio (OR); 0.87; 95% CI, 0.78–0.98; p = 0.02), LV end systolic diameter (OR; 0.89; 95% CI, 0.8–0.98; p = 0.02) and inotrope use (OR; 0.2, 95% CI, 0.05–0.7; p = 0.01) as predictors of LV recovery. Relapse was not seen in any of the nine women who had a subsequent pregnancy.

Conclusion

LV recovery was higher than those reported in contemporary PPCM cohorts from other parts of the world.
Thalassaemia
Authors: Wong Johanna
Published: December 2021

Thalassaemias are among the most common genetic disorders worldwide; an estimated 1.5% of the global population carries a thalassaemia mutation. Originally associated with tropical and sub-tropical regions, migration has facilitated wider dispersal, concentrated in larger multi-ethnic conurbations. Thalassaemias are heterogeneous, ranging from asymptomatic to causing severe haemolytic anaemia with pan-corporal sequelae and complications. Carriers benefit from access to pre-conception and antenatal advice and screening. The National Health Service Antenatal Haemoglobinopathy Screening Programme has operated since 2001, but carrier diagnoses may still emerge incidentally. This article provides an overview of the genetics, presentation and management of thalassaemia.
Comparing newspapers in mainland China and Hong Kong: The limits of media systems theory
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Lyu Nan
Published: December 2021

Most comparative studies of media are undertaken between different countries. It is normally assumed that there are considerable commonalities between the media in a given country and it is usually argued that these are sufficient to form a ‘media system’, which can usefully be contrasted with that of another country. It is relatively unusual to find two sets of media within one country that are sufficiently distinct as be considered as different systems. This paper explores one of the exceptions to that general rule: the case of the Hong Kong media as compared with those of mainland China. Given the different historical and current situations of the two locations at the time the research was conducted, it is to be expected that the kinds of journalism practised would be radically dissimilar. The results of a content analysis of five mainland and three Hong Kong papers demonstrate that, at the aggregate level, there are indeed important differences. A more detailed analysis, however, demonstrates that each of the three Hong Kong papers is in fact closer to mainland groupings than they are to each other. One Hong Kong paper, Ta Kung Pao, is closest to the most ‘official’ grouping of mainland papers, while Ming Pao falls in to a grouping with the ‘liberal’ mainland paper. The now defunct Apple Daily, on the other hand, has the closest links with the ‘popular official’ mainland press. Taken together, these findings suggest that the common assumption that different forms of journalism are best compared on a national basis is incorrect and that factors like market position and ideological orientation have an important influence on the kinds of journalism practised across borders.
From Homeless to Student Housing: School Counselor Roles and Experiences in Preparing Students Experiencing Homelessness for College
Authors: Havlik Stacey , Duckhorn Madeline , Rohrer Shelby , Rowley Patrick
Published: December 2021

This qualitative study focused on examining the roles and experiences of high school counselors supporting students experiencing homelessness in their college preparation. To be included in the study, participants needed to have experience working with high school students experiencing homelessness. Findings indicated that the participants supported students experiencing homelessness by (a) enhancing access and exposure to college, (b) providing hands-on and individualized college-going support, and (c) building partnerships with universities to support college going.
Timely Revisit of Proprioceptive Deficits in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lau Kenney K. L. , Law Karlen K. P. , Kwan Kenny Y. H. , Cheung Jason P. Y. , Cheung Kenneth M. C. , Wong Arnold Y. L.
Published: December 2021

Study Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

The present review aimed to summarize the evidence regarding differences in proprioception between children with and without adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

Methods

Seven electronic databases were searched from their inception to April 10, 2021. Articles were included if they involved: (1) AIS patients aged between 10 and 18 years, (2) measurements of proprioceptive abilities, and (3) comparisons with non-AIS controls. Animal studies, case reports, commentaries, conference proceedings, research protocols, and reviews were excluded. Two reviewers independently conducted literature screening, data extraction, risks of bias assessments, and quality of evidence evaluations. Relevant information was pooled for meta-analyses.

Results

From 432 identified citations, 11 case-control studies comprising 1121 participants were included. The meta-analyses showed that AIS participants displayed proprioceptive deficits as compared to non-AIS controls. Moderate evidence supported that AIS participants showed significantly larger repositioning errors than healthy controls (pooled mean difference = 1.27 degrees, P < .01). Low evidence substantiated that AIS participants had significantly greater motion detection threshold (pooled mean difference = 1.60 degrees, P < .01) and abnormal somatosensory evoked potentials (pooled mean difference = .36 milliseconds, P = .01) than non-AIS counterparts.

Conclusions

Consistent findings revealed that proprioceptive deficits occurred in AIS patients. Further investigations on the causal relationship between AIS and proprioception, and the identification of the subgroup of AIS patients with proprioceptive deficit are needed.
Outcome of one-stage percutaneous endoscopic debridement and lavage combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for lumbar pyogenic spondylodiscitis
Authors: Chen Jianquan , Xuan Tianhang , Lu Yao , Lin Xinyuan , Lv Zhouming , Chen Maoshui
Published: December 2021

Background

This study assessed the therapeutic effect of one-stage percutaneous endoscopic debridement and lavage (PEDL) combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation (PPSF) in the treatment of lumbar pyogenic spondylodiscitis.

Methods

From March 2017 to October 2019, 51 patients diagnosed with pyogenic spondylodiscitis underwent PPSF followed by PEDL in our department. Biopsy specimens were examined for microorganisms and evaluated histopathologically. Clinical outcomes were assessed by physical examination, routine serological testing, visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and imaging studies.

Results

Of the enrolled patients, the operation time ranged from 90 min to 114 min every level with an average of 102 min, and the average drainage time ranged from 6 days to 10 days with an average of 7.4 days. All patients who complained of lower back pain symptoms were more relieved than before surgery. Causative pathogens were identified in 20 of 51 biopsy specimens; Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent. However, there were eight patients with postoperative complications. The mean follow-up was 25.0 ± 3.8 (range: 20–32) months. Inflammatory markers showed that infection was controlled. The VAS and ODI improved significantly. At the last follow-up, magnetic resonance imaging showed that the infected lesions had disappeared.

Conclusion

PEDL supplementing PPSF may be useful for patients with single-level lumbar pyogenic spondylodiscitis, as it is minimally invasive, especially for patients who cannot undergo conventional open surgery due to poor health or advanced age.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Assessment of an Arabic Version of the Health Care Provider HIV/AIDS Stigma Scale
Authors: Aziz Mirette M. , Badahdah Abdallah M. , Mohammed Heba M.
Published: December 2021

HIV stigma among health care providers in the Arab world is understudied due to a lack of valid and reliable measures. Data from 352 Egyptian physicians was used to validate an Arabic version of the Health Care Provider HIV/AIDS Stigma Scale (HPASS). Exploratory factor analysis ( n = 1 9 4) suggested a 3 -factor structure. Confirmatory factor analysis ( n = 1 5 8) validated the three-factor solution with 18 items, which explained 5 3 .3 6% of the variance. All items loaded on their designated constructs, which ranged from 0 .58 to 0 .82 (prejudice) to 0 .58 to 0 .66 (stereotypes) and 0 .52 to 0 .91 (discrimination). The prejudice, stereotypes, and discrimination subscales consisted of seven, five, and six items, respectively. The internal consistency (α = 0 .9 0) and the test-retest reliability demonstrated ( r = 0 .9 5) were excellent. The cultural adaptation of the Arabic version of HPASS suggests that it is a suitable scale for assessing HIV stigma among Arab health care providers.
The Equitable Distribution of Opportunity to Learn in Mathematics Textbooks
Authors: Polikoff Morgan S. , Rabovsky Sarah J. , Silver Daniel , Lazar-Wolfe Rosalynn
Published: December 2021

Low-income students and students of color are faced with pervasively lower levels of opportunity to learn compared with their peers, creating unequal opportunities for educational success. Textbooks, which serve as the backbone of the curriculum in most mathematics classrooms, present a potentially powerful tool to help mitigate unequal opportunity to learn across students. Using the Surveys of Enacted Curriculum framework, we investigate the content of commonly used eighth-grade math textbooks in California and the extent to which they align with the Common Core State Standards. We also explore the relationship between the variation in content coverage and alignment and student characteristics. We find poor alignment between the textbooks in our sample and the Common Core State Standards and low overall levels of cognitive demand, but only limited evidence of systematic differences in alignment or cognitive demand coverage associated with student characteristics at the school or district level.
Distressed to Distracted: Examining Undergraduate Learning and Stress Regulation During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mesghina Almaz , Wong Joseph T. , Davis Elizabeth L. , Lerner Bella S. , Jackson-Green Bryant J. , Richland Lindsey E.
Published: December 2021

Undergraduates’ distress has increased dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic’s onset, raising concerns for academic achievement. Yet little is known about the mechanisms by which pandemic-related distress may affect students’ learning and performance, and consequently, how we might intervene to promote student achievement despite the continuing crisis. Across two studies with nearly 700 undergraduates, we highlight the mediating role of distraction: undergraduates higher in COVID-19 distress saw lower learning gains from an asynchronous neuroscience lesson due to increased mind wandering during the lesson. We replicate and extend this finding in Study 2: probing what pandemic-related stressors worried students and revealing systematic differences among students of marginalized identities, with largest impacts on first-generation, Latinx women. We also examined whether stress reappraisal or mindfulness practices may mitigate the observed distress-to-distraction pathway. Only mindfulness reduced mind wandering, though this did not translate to learning. We conclude with implications for practice and future research.
China–Turkey Relations from the Perspective of Neoclassical Realism
Authors: Özşahin Mustafa Cüneyt , Donelli Federico , Gasco Riccardo
Published: December 2021

There is plenty of studies focusing on China’s global outreach through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In tandem with this, the extensive literature on China depicts it as the next hegemon to succeed in the USA. Along this line, flourishing ties with various Asian nations, including the Middle Eastern countries, as a result of China’s recent foreign policy activism has been addressed extensively. While most research has been stressing the rising assertiveness of China in world politics, only a limited number of studies have touched upon the responses from middle or small powers against China’s ascent. Drawing from neoclassical realism, this article contends two levels of analysis for delineating the interaction between Turkey, a middle power, and China, a rising great power. First, the exchange between Turkey and the USA is vital in determining the cordial relations between Turkey and China. Alteration in the American policy vis-à-vis Turkey in the wake of the Arab Spring is relevant to Turkey’s growing relations with China. Second, is the rising anti-Westernism of foreign policy elites as part of the alteration in the strategic culture of Turkish politics, which makes Turkey’s rapprochement with China possible. Nevertheless, it should be noted that these two levels are intertwined and feed each other. Consequently, employing a neoclassical realist approach, the article argues that the middle powers’ stance against a rising hegemon is conditional upon the bilateral relations with the current hegemon and peculiarities of domestic politics.
Study of chalcopyrite flotation in the presence of illite using a design of experiments approach
Authors: Taner Hasan Ali , Onen Vildan
Published: December 2021

The interaction between chalcopyrite and illite particles was analysed using ζ-potential measurements and flotation tests. Statistically designed tests were used to examine the factors controlling flotation (frother concentration, dispersant concentration, froth height, airflow rate and amount of clay). Furthermore, the significance levels of the impacts of these factors on responses (chalcopyrite grade/recovery, pyrite grade/recovery, dynamic froth stability and mean bubble diameter) were determined. Chalcopyrite and pyrite ζ-potentials were measured in the presence of illite. The addition of 15% illite to the chalcopyrite, especially between pH 11 and 12, shifted the ζ-potential values closer to that of pure illite, indicating complete surface coating of chalcopyrite with illite. In the flotation experiments, better results were obtained in terms of chalcopyrite grade at a low airflow rate and a high froth height. With increasing froth height there was a decline in the gangue mineral recovery as the residence time of the froth increased. The most significant factor increasing pyrite recovery was the amount of clay. Although illite is considered to be the least problematic clay mineral for flotation, as reported in the literature, an illite content of as low as 5% in the ore decreased chalcopyrite grade by 3.83%. While K and Na contents of 4% were detected after flotation without the addition of illite, their abundance increased to 5.7% after the addition of illite.
Blinatumomab maintenance after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Gaballa Mahmoud R. , Banerjee Pinaki , Milton Denái R. , Jiang Xianli , Ganesh Christina , Khazal Sajad , Nandivada Vandana , Islam Sanjida , Kaplan Mecit , Daher May , Basar Rafet , Alousi Amin , Mehta Rohtesh , Alatrash Gheath , Khouri Issa , Oran Betul , Marin David , Popat Uday , Olson Amanda , Tewari Priti , Jain Nitin , Jabbour Elias , Ravandi Farhad , Kantarjian Hagop , Chen Ken , Champlin Richard , Shpall Elizabeth , Rezvani Katayoun , Kebriaei Partow
Published: December 2021

Patients with B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are at high-risk for relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). We conducted a single-center phase 2 study evaluating the feasibility of 4 cycles of blinatumomab administered every 3 months during the first year after HCT in an effort to mitigate relapse in high-risk ALL patients. Twenty-one of 23 enrolled patients received at least 1 cycle of blinatumomab and were included in the analysis. The median time from HCT to the first cycle of blinatumomab was 78 days (range, 44 to 105). Twelve patients (57%) completed all 4 treatment cycles. Neutropenia was the only grade 4 adverse event (19%). Rates of cytokine release (5% G1) and neurotoxicity (5% G2) were minimal. The cumulative incidence of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) grades 2 to 4 and 3 to 4 were 33% and 5%, respectively; 2 cases of mild (10%) and 1 case of moderate (5%) chronic GVHD were noted. With a median follow-up of 14.3 months, the 1-year overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and nonrelapse mortality (NRM) rates were 85%, 71%, and 0%, respectively. In a matched analysis with a contemporary cohort of 57 patients, we found no significant difference between groups regarding blinatumomab’s efficacy. Correlative studies of baseline and posttreatment samples identified patients with specific T-cell profiles as “responders” or “nonresponders” to therapy. Responders had higher proportions of effector memory CD8 T-cell subsets. Nonresponders were T-cell deficient and expressed more inhibitory checkpoint molecules, including T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (TIM3). We found that blinatumomab postallogeneic HCT is feasible, and its benefit is dependent on the immune milieu at time of treatment. This paper is posted on ClinicalTrials.gov, study ID: NCT02807883.
The environmental impact of inhaled therapy: making informed treatment choices
Authors: Woodcock Ashley , Beeh Kai M. , Sagara Hironori , Aumônier Simon , Addo-Yobo Emmanuel , Khan Javaid , Vestbo Jørgen , Tope Helen
Published: December 2021

When selecting the best inhaler and drug combination for a patient with respiratory disease, a number of factors should be considered. While efficacy and safety of medical treatments are always a priority, in recent years the environmental impacts of all aspects of life have become an increasingly necessary consideration and inhaled therapies are no exception. The carbon footprint of an item, individual or organisation is one of the most important and quantifiable environmental impacts, assessed by the amount of greenhouse gases (often expressed in terms of carbon dioxide equivalents) generated throughout the life cycle. The two most commonly prescribed and manufactured inhaler types worldwide are pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) containing hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) propellants and dry powder inhalers (DPIs). Most of the carbon footprint of current pMDIs is a result of the propellants that they contain (HFC-134a and HFC-227ea, which are potent greenhouse gases). In comparison, the powder in DPIs is dispersed by the patient's own inhalation, meaning DPIs do not contain a propellant and have a lower carbon footprint than most pMDIs currently available. Soft mist inhalers are another propellant-free option: the device contains a spring, which provides the energy to disperse the aqueous medication. In this review, we examine the published data on carbon footprint data for inhalers, providing an analysis of potential implications for treatment decision making and industry initiatives.
Effect of highversuslow dose of dexamethasone on clinical worsening in patients hospitalised with moderate or severe COVID-19 pneumonia: an open-label, randomised clinical trial
Authors: Taboada Manuel , Rodríguez Nuria , Varela Pablo Manuel , Rodríguez María Teresa , Abelleira Romina , González Amara , Casal Ana , Díaz Peromingo José Antonio , Lama Adriana , Domínguez María Jesús , Rábade Carlos , Páez Emilio Manuel , Riveiro Vanessa , Pernas Hadrián , Beceiro María del Carmen , Caruezo Valentín , Naveira Alberto , Cariñena Agustín , Cabaleiro Teresa , Estany-Gestal Ana , Zarra Irene , Pose Antonio , Valdés Luis , Álvarez-Escudero Julián
Published: December 2021

Background

Low-dose dexamethasone demonstrated clinical improvement in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) needing oxygen therapy; however, evidence on the efficacy of high-dose dexamethasone is limited.

Methods

We performed a randomised, open-label, controlled trial involving hospitalised patients with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia needing oxygen therapy. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive low-dose dexamethasone (6 mg once daily for 10 days) or high-dose dexamethasone (20 mg once daily for 5 days, followed by 10 mg once daily for an additional 5 days). The primary outcome was clinical worsening within 11 days since randomisation. Secondary outcomes included 28-day mortality, time to recovery and clinical status at day 5, 11, 14 and 28 on an ordinal scale ranging from 1 (discharged) to 7 (death).

Results

A total of 200 patients (mean±sdage 64±14 years; 62% male) were enrolled. 32 (31.4%) out of 102 patients enrolled in the low-dose group and 16 (16.3%) out of 98 in the high-dose group showed clinical worsening within 11 days since randomisation (rate ratio 0.427, 95% CI 0.216–0.842; p=0.014). The 28-day mortality was 5.9% in the low-dose group and 6.1% in the high-dose group (p=0.844). There was no significant difference in time to recovery, and in the seven-point ordinal scale at days 5, 11, 14 and 28.

Conclusions

Among hospitalised COVID-19 patients needing oxygen therapy, high dose of dexamethasone reduced clinical worsening within 11 days after randomisation, compared with low dose.
Imprinting of bronchial epithelial cells uponin vivorhinovirus infection in people with asthma
Authors: Ravi Abilash , Chowdhury Saheli , Dijkhuis Annemiek , Dierdorp Barbara S. , Dekker Tamara , Kruize Rianne , Sabogal Piñeros Yanaika S. , Majoor Christof J. , Sterk Peter J. , Lutter René
Published: December 2021

Background

Defective translocation of the translational repressor TIAR (T-cell internal antigen receptor) in bronchial epithelial cells (BECs) from asthma patients underlies epithelial hyperresponsiveness, reflected by an exaggerated production of a select panel of inflammatory cytokines such as CXCL-8, interleukin (IL)-6, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, CXCL-10, upon exposure to tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and IL-17A. With this study we aimed to clarify whether epithelial hyperresponsiveness is a consistent finding, is changed uponin vivoexposure to rhinovirus (RV)-A16 and applies to the bronchoconstrictor endothelin-1.

Methods

BECs were obtained from asthma patients (n=18) and healthy individuals (n=11), 1 day before and 6 days post-RV-A16 exposure. BECs were cultured and stimulated with TNF and IL-17A and inflammatory mediators were analysed. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was obtained in parallel with BECs to correlate differential cell counts and inflammatory mediators with epithelial hyperresponsiveness.

Results

Epithelial hyperresponsiveness was confirmed in sequential samples and even increased in BECs from asthma patients after RV-A16 exposure, but not in BECs from healthy individuals. Endothelin-1 tended to increase in BECs from asthma patients collected after RV-A16 exposure, but not in BECs from healthy individuals.In vitroCXCL-8 and endothelin-1 production correlated.In vivorelevance forin vitroCXCL-8 and endothelin-1 production was shown by correlations with forced expiratory volume in 1 s % predicted and CXCL-8 BALF levels.

Conclusion

Epithelial hyperresponsiveness is an intrinsic defect in BECs from asthma patients, which increases upon viral exposure, but not in BECs from healthy individuals. This epithelial hyperresponsiveness also applies to the bronchoconstrictor endothelin-1, which could be involved in airway obstruction.
Genome-wide identification of enhancers and transcription factors regulating the myogenic differentiation of bovine satellite cells
Authors: Lyu Pengcheng , Settlage Robert E. , Jiang Honglin
Published: December 2021

Background

Satellite cells are the myogenic precursor cells in adult skeletal muscle. The objective of this study was to identify enhancers and transcription factors that regulate gene expression during the differentiation of bovine satellite cells into myotubes.

Results

Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by deep sequencing (ChIP-seq) was performed to identify genomic regions where lysine 27 of H3 histone is acetylated (H3K27ac), i.e., active enhancers, from bovine satellite cells before and during differentiation into myotubes. A total of 19,027 and 47,669 H3K27ac-marked enhancers were consistently identified from two biological replicates of before- and during-differentiation bovine satellite cells, respectively. Of these enhancers, 5882 were specific to before-differentiation, 35,723 to during-differentiation, and 13,199 common to before- and during-differentiation bovine satellite cells. Whereas most of the before- or during-differentiation-specific H3K27ac-marked enhancers were located distally to the transcription start site, the enhancers common to before- and during-differentiation were located both distally and proximally to the transcription start site. The three sets of H3K27ac-marked enhancers were associated with functionally different genes and enriched with different transcription factor binding sites. Specifically, many of the H3K27ac-marked enhancers specific to during-differentiation bovine satellite cells were associated with genes involved in muscle structure and development, and were enriched with binding sites for the MyoD, AP-1, KLF, TEAD, and MEF2 families of transcription factors. A positive role was validated for Fos and FosB, two AP-1 family transcription factors, in the differentiation of bovine satellite cells into myotubes by siRNA-mediated knockdown.

Conclusions

Tens of thousands of H3K27ac-marked active enhancers have been identified from bovine satellite cells before or during differentiation. These enhancers contain binding sites not only for transcription factors whose role in satellite cell differentiation is well known but also for transcription factors whose role in satellite cell differentiation is unknown. These enhancers and transcription factors are valuable resources for understanding the complex mechanism that mediates gene expression during satellite cell differentiation. Because satellite cell differentiation is a key step in skeletal muscle growth, the enhancers, the transcription factors, and their target genes identified in this study are also valuable resources for identifying and interpreting skeletal muscle trait-associated DNA variants in cattle.
Spectrum of cardiovascular diseases at a referral tertiary care hospital in Somalia, Mogadishu: an echocardiographic study
Authors: Alıcı Gökhan , Genç Ömer
Published: December 2021

Background

To investigate the frequencies and patterns of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including rheumatic and congenital heart diseases, among patients with abnormal hearts assessed by echocardiographic examination.

Methods

This retrospective, descriptive registry reviewed abnormal echocardiographic findings of 1140 patients aged 0–100 years who were admitted to the cardiology outpatient clinic at a tertiary training institution in Mogadishu.

Results

Hypertensive heart disease (HHD) (n:454, 39.8%), valvular heart disease (VHD) (n:395, 34.6%),
and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) (n:351, 30.8%) were the most frequent comorbidities. Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) were detected in 151 (13.2%) of the patients, with the most common ones including atrial septal defect (ASD) (n:37, 3.2%) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) (n:26, 2.3%). Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) was observed in 84 (7.4%) patients, among whom the most common age range was 16–30 years (40.5%), followed by 31–45 years (31%) and 0–15 years (15.5%). Mitral insufficiency (n:541, 47.5%) was detected as the most frequent VHD, followed by aortic insufficiency (n:437, 38.3%), and tricuspid insufficiency (n:264, 23.2%) and mitral valve stenosis (n:39, 3.4%) was the least common VHD.

Conclusion

In the present study, we found that HHD was the most common comorbidity, followed by VHD, and HFrEF. Moreover, the most common VHD was mitral insufficiency and the most common CHD was ASD.
Willingness, beliefs, and barriers regarding the COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia: a multiregional cross-sectional study
Authors: Altulahi Noura , AlNujaim Shouq , Alabdulqader Azzam , Alkharashi Abdullah , AlMalki Assaf , AlSiari Faisal , Bashawri Yara , Alsubaie Sarah , AlShahrani Dayel , AlGoraini Yara
Published: December 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread worldwide, and the vaccine remains the ultimate cornerstone to overcoming its long-term impact. Vaccine hesitancy might obstruct the effort to achieve herd immunity and eradicate the virus. We assessed Saudi Arabian individuals’ willingness, beliefs, and barriers regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and their adherence to preventive measures during and after the pandemic.

Methods

A self-administered electronic validated questionnaire was distributed among the five major regions in Saudi Arabia between November and December 2020. The questionnaire addressed the sociodemographic data, beliefs, potential barriers, parents’ acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination for their children, and adherence to protective measures during and after the pandemic.

Results

Of 8,056 participants, 4,218 (52.4%) of a non-representative sample were willing to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Being a young adult, male, having less than a high school degree, being a smoker, having a chronic disease, and having a history of seasonal influenza vaccine uptake were positive predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Hesitant participants reported concerns about vaccine side effects and safety as the main barriers to accepting the COVID-19 vaccine. Some refusers (26.1%) declared that they would reconsider vaccination only if the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine were reported by more studies.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a promising willingness to accept the vaccine among the population, with positive beliefs and attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination. However, a considerable proportion of the population was reluctant to accept the vaccine. Thus, publicly providing information about vaccine safety and implementing health education programs is crucial for increasing the public’s confidence in the vaccine.
IRF4-activated TEX41 promotes the malignant behaviors of melanoma cells by targeting miR-103a-3p/C1QB axis
Authors: Zheng Yingna , Zhou Wu , Li Min , Xu Ruixue , Zhang Shuai , Liu Ying , Cen Ying
Published: December 2021

Background

Malignant melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer and a tumor of melanocytic origin. Recent studies have suggested that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial regulatory roles in multiple malignancies, including melanoma. Testis expressed 41 (TEX41) is a relatively new lncRNA whose mechanism in melanoma remains vague.

Aims

This study aimed to explore the role and specific mechanism of TEX41 in melanoma.

Methods

The expression of genes involved in this study was determined by qRT-PCR. Functional assays were conducted to analyze the role of relevant genes in melanoma cells. The interaction between TEX41 promoter and IRF4 as well as the relationship among TEX41, miR-103a-3p and C1QB was verified by mechanism assays.

Results

IRF4 up-regulated TEX41 at the transcriptional level in melanoma cells. TEX41 knockdown hindered melanoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion while promoting cell apoptosis. TEX41 bound to miR-103a-3p and regulated C1QB. The suppressive impact of TEX41 depletion on melanoma cell malignant behaviors could be counteracted by miR-103a-3p inhibition or C1QB overexpression. Moreover, IRF4 could facilitate melanoma cell growth via up-regulating C1QB.

Conclusions

IRF4-activated TEX41 sequestered miR-103a-3p and modulated C1QB to promote melanoma cell malignant behaviors, for which TEX41 might be regarded as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma.
Genetic testing is necessary for correct diagnosis and treatment in patients with isolated methylmalonic aciduria: a case report
Authors: Brennerová Katarína , Škopková Martina , Ostrožlíková Mária , Šaligová Jana , Staník Juraj , Bzdúch Vladimír , Gašperíková Daniela
Published: December 2021

Background

Isolated methylmalonic aciduria can be caused by pathogenic mutations in the gene for methylmalonyl-CoA mutase or in the genes encoding enzymes involved in the intracellular metabolism of cobalamin. Some of these mutations may be cobalamin responsive. The type of methylmalonic aciduria cannot always be assumed from clinical manifestation and the responsiveness to cobalamin has to be assessed for appropriate cobalamin administration, or to avoid unnecessary treatment. The cases presented herein highlight the importance of genetic testing in methylmalonic aciduria cases and the need for standardisation of the in vivo cobalamin-responsiveness assessment.

Case presentation

We describe two patients who presented in the first week of life with rapid neurological deterioration caused by metabolic acidosis with severe hyperammonaemia requiring extracorporeal elimination in addition to protein restriction, energy support, carnitine, and vitamin B12 treatment. The severity of the clinical symptoms and high methylmalonic acid concentrations in the urine (>30,000 μmol/mmol of creatinine) without hyperhomocysteinaemia in both of our patients suggested isolated methylmalonic aciduria. Based on the neonatal manifestation and the high methylmalonic acid urine levels, we assumed the cobalamin non-responsive form. The in vivo test of responsiveness to cobalamin was performed in both patients. Patient 1 was evaluated as non-responsive; thus, intensive treatment with vitamin B12 was not used. Patient 2 was responsive to cobalamin, but the dose was decreased to 1 mg i.m. every two weeks with daily oral treatment due to non-compliance. Genetic tests revealed bi-allelic mutations in the genes MMAB and MMAA in Patient 1 and 2, respectively. Based on these results, we were able to start intensive treatment with hydroxocobalamin in both patients. After the treatment intensification, there was no acute crisis requiring hospitalisation in Patient 1, and the urine methylmalonic acid levels further decreased in Patient 2.

Conclusions

Despite carrying out the in vivo test of responsiveness to cobalamin in both patients, only the results of molecular genetic tests led us to the correct diagnosis and enabled intensive treatment with hydroxocobalamin. The combination of the standardized in vivo test of cobalamin responsiveness and genetic testing is needed for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of isolated methylmalonic aciduria.
The effect of PLISSIT based counseling model on sexual function, quality of life, and sexual distress in women surviving breast cancer: a single-group pretest–posttest trial
Authors: Keshavarz Zohreh , Karimi Elham , Golezar Samira , Ozgoli Giti , Nasiri Maliheh
Published: December 2021

Background

Diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer potentially leads to sexual dysfunction and sexual distress in women and negatively affects their quality of life (QoL). This study aimed at determining the effect of PLISSIT based counseling on sexual function, sexual distress, and QoL in women surviving breast cancer.

Methods

In this pre-test, post-test, single-group semi-experimental study, 65 women surviving breast cancer who were referred to the selected centers were included in the study via the available sampling method. Data gathering tools included a researcher-made demographic questionnaire, female sexual function index, beck depression inventory-II, State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, World Health Organization QoL-Brief, and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised. The counseling program (7 sessions 60 min each) was designed based on the PLISSIT model. The sexual function, sexual distress, and QoL were evaluated before, and 2 and 4 weeks after the intervention. To compare the mean scores of variables before and after the intervention, repeated-measured ANOVA was used.

Results

The findings showed that PLISSIT based counseling significantly reduced sexual distress and increased the scores of QoL and all its domains, as well as sexual function and all its domains in women surviving breast cancer (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the mean scores of variables 2 and 4 weeks after the intervention.

Conclusions

It seems that PLISSIT based counseling reduces sexual dysfunction and sexual distress and improves the QoL of women surviving breast cancer. So, it is recommended that these counseling programs be integrated into the health care program of this group of women.

Trial registration

TCTR202103170010, 17 March 2021, Retrospectively registered, at https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/.
SGLT-2 inhibitors and cardiorenal outcomes in patients with or without type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis of 11 CVOTs
Authors: Giugliano Dario , Longo Miriam , Scappaticcio Lorenzo , Bellastella Giuseppe , Maiorino Maria Ida , Esposito Katherine
Published: December 2021

Background

It has been suggested that sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors reduce the cardiorenal risk in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The purpose of this study is to provide an update of all large cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) with SGLT-2 inhibitors to assess their cardiorenal efficacy in patients with and without T2D.

Methods

An electronic search up to 30 September 2021 was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and ClinicalTrials.gov. to determine eligible trials. We included CVOTs comparing any SGLT-2 inhibitor with placebo, reporting desired cardiovascular or renal outcomes and with a follow-up duration of at least 6 months.

Results

Eleven CVOTs, with data from five SGLT-2 inhibitors (empagliflozin, canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, ertugliflozin and sotagliflozin) and 77,541 participants, were included. In the overall analysis, the risk of the composite CV mortality or hospitalization for heart failure (HF) was reduced by 23% (HR = 0.77, 95% CI 0.73–0.82, P < 0.001) compared with placebo, with not significant heterogeneity (I2 = 26%, P = 0.20), and irrespective of the presence of T2D (P for interaction = 0.81) and age (> 65 vs ≤ 65 years, P for interaction = 0.78). The risk of CV mortality, total mortality and hospitalization for HF was significantly reduced by 16%, 13%, and 32%, respectively; similarly, the risk of the composite renal outcome was reduced by 35% (HR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.56–0.75), with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 32%). In the analysis of 6 CVOTs reporting the data, the risk of major cardiovascular events (MACE) was reduced by 12%, with low heterogeneity (I2 = 21.2%, P = 0.19) and irrespective of the presence of established CV disease at baseline (P for interaction = 0.46).

Conclusions

Therapy with SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with cardiometabolic and renal diseases results in a sustained to moderate reduction of the composite CV death or hospitalization for HF, robust reduction of HF and renal outcomes, moderate reduction of CV mortality, total mortality and MACE.
Insights on functionalized carbon nanotubes for cancer theranostics
Authors: Tang Lu , Xiao Qiaqia , Mei Yijun , He Shun , Zhang Ziyao , Wang Ruotong , Wang Wei
Published: December 2021

Despite the exciting breakthroughs in medical technology, cancer still accounts for one of the principle triggers of death and conventional therapeutic modalities often fail to attain an effective cure. Recently, nanobiotechnology has made huge advancement in cancer therapy with gigantic application potential because of their ability in achieving precise and controlled drug release, elevating drug solubility and reducing adverse effects. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), one of the most promising carbon-related nanomaterials, have already achieved much success in biomedical field. Due to their excellent optical property, thermal and electronic conductivity, easy functionalization ability and high drug loading capacity, CNTs can be applied in a multifunctional way for cancer treatment and diagnosis. In this review, we will give an overview of the recent progress of CNT-based drug delivery systems in cancer theranostics, which emphasizes their targetability to intracellular components of tumor cells and extracellular elements in tumor microenvironment. Moreover, a detailed introduction on how CNTs penetrate inside the tumor cells to reach their sites of action and achieve the therapeutic effects, as well as their diagnostic applications will be highlighted.

Graphic Abstract
Bilateral actigraphic quantification of upper extremity movement in hemiparetic children with perinatal stroke: a case control study
Authors: Hollis Asha , Cole Lauran , Zewdie Ephrem , Metzler Megan J. , Kirton Adam
Published: December 2021

Background

Hemiparetic cerebral palsy impacts millions of people worldwide. Assessment of bilateral motor function in real life remains a major challenge. We evaluated quantification of upper extremity movement in hemiparetic children using bilateral actigraphy. We hypothesized that movement asymmetry correlates with standard motor outcome measures.

Methods

Hemiparetic and control participants wore bilateral wrist Actiwatch2 (Philips) for 48 h with movement counts recorded in 15-s intervals. The primary outcome was a novel statistic of movement asymmetry, the Actigraphic Movement Asymmetry Index (AMAI). Relationships between AMAI and standard motor outcomes (Assisting Hand Assessment, Melbourne Assessment, and Box and Block Test [BB]) were explored with Pearson or Spearman correlation.

Results

30 stroke (mean 11 years 2 months (3 years 10 months); 13 female, 17 male) and 23 control (mean 11 years 1 month (4 years 5 months); 8 female, 15 male) were enrolled. Stroke participants demonstrated higher asymmetry. Correlations between AMAI and standard tests were moderate and strongest during sleep (BB: r = 0.68, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Standard tests may not reflect the extent of movement asymmetry during daily life in hemiparetic children. Bilateral actigraphy may be a valuable complementary tool for measuring arm movement, potentially enabling improved evaluation of therapies with a focus on child participation.