bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A political ecology of data
Authors: Nost Eric , Goldstein Jenny Elaine
Published: September 2021

Conservationists, governments, and corporations see promise in digital technologies to provide holistic, rapid, and objective information to inform policy, shape investments, and monitor ecosystems. But it is increasingly clear that environmental data does more than simply offer a better view of the planet. This special issue makes a single overarching argument: that we cannot fully understand the current conjuncture in global environmental governance without understanding the platforms, devices, and institutions that comprise environmental data infrastructures. The papers draw together scholarship from political ecology and science and technology studies to demonstrate how data has become a significant site in which contemporary environmental politics are waged and socionatures are materialized. We address: (1) the contested practices of utilizing and maintaining data infrastructures; (2) the ways they are governed and the territorial statecraft they enable; (3) the socionatural materiality they arise within but also produce. The papers in this special issue show that, against its dominant representation, data is material, governed, practiced, and requires praxis. Political ecologists could adopt such an approach to make sense of the emerging ways in which data technologies shape environments and their politics.
Differential sialic acid content in adult and neonatal fibrinogen mediates differences in clot polymerization dynamics
Authors: Nellenbach Kimberly , Kyu Alexander , Guzzetta Nina , Brown Ashley C.
Published: September 2021

Neonates possess a molecular variant of fibrinogen, known as fetal fibrinogen, characterized by increased sialic acid, a greater negative charge, and decreased activity compared with adults. Despite these differences, adult fibrinogen is used for the treatment of bleeding in neonates, with mixed efficacy. To determine safe and efficacious bleeding protocols for neonates, more information on neonatal fibrin clot formation and the influence of sialic acid on these processes is needed. Here, we examine the influence of sialic acid on neonatal fibrin polymerization. We hypothesized that the increased sialic acid content of neonatal fibrinogen promotes fibrin B:b knob-hole interactions and consequently influences the structure and function of the neonatal fibrin matrix. We explored this hypothesis through analysis of structural properties and knob:hole polymerization dynamics of normal and desialylated neonatal fibrin networks and compared them with those formed with adult fibrinogen. We then characterized normal neonatal fibrin knob:hole interactions by forming neonatal and adult clots with either thrombin or snake-venom thrombin-like enzymes that preferentially cleave fibrinopeptide A or B. Sialic acid content of neonatal fibrinogen was determined to be a key determinant of resulting clot properties. Experiments analyzing knob:hole dynamics indicated that typical neonatal fibrin clots are formed with the release of more fibrinopeptide B and less fibrinopeptide A than adults. After the removal of sialic acid, fibrinopeptide release was roughly equivalent between adults and neonates, indicating the influence of sialic acid on fibrin neonatal fibrin polymerization mechanisms. These results could inform future studies developing neonatal-specific treatments of bleeding.
Interplay and cooperation of Helicobacter pylori and gut microbiota in gastric carcinogenesis
Authors: Bakhti Seyedeh Zahra , Latifi-Navid Saeid
Published: September 2021

Chronic Helicobacter pylori infection is a critical risk factor for gastric cancer (GC). However, only 1–3 % of people with H. pylori develop GC. In gastric carcinogenesis, non-H. pylori bacteria in the stomach might interact with H. pylori. Bacterial dysbiosis in the stomach can strengthen gastric neoplasia development via generating tumor-promoting metabolites, DNA damaging, suppressing antitumor immunity, and activating oncogenic signaling pathways. Other bacterial species may generate short-chain fatty acids like butyrate that may inhibit carcinogenesis and inflammation in the human stomach. The present article aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of the effects of gut microbiota and H. pylori on the development of GC. Next, the potential mechanisms of intestinal microbiota were discussed in gastric carcinogenesis. We also disserted the complicated interactions between H. pylori, intestinal microbiota, and host in gastric carcinogenesis, thus helping us to design new strategies for preventing, diagnosing, and treating GC.
Retraction Note: Preoperative versus postoperative ultrasound-guided rectus sheath block for improving pain, sleep quality and cytokine levels in patients with open midline incisions undergoing transabdominal gynecological surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jin Feng , Li Zhe , Tan Wen-fei , Ma Hong , Li Xiao-qian , Lu Huang-wei
Published: September 2021

This article has been retracted. Please see the Retraction Notice for more detail: 10.1186/s12871-021-01437-z
Nature, availability, and utilization of women-focused cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review
Authors: Mamataz Taslima , Ghisi Gabriela L. M. , Pakosh Maureen , Grace Sherry L.
Published: September 2021

Background

Women do not participate in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) to the same degree as men; women-focused CR may address this. This systematic review investigated the: (1) nature, (2) availability, as well as (3a) utilization of, and (b) satisfaction with women-focused CR.

Methods

Medline, Pubmed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus and Emcare were searched for articles from inception to May 2020. Primary studies of any design were included. Adult females with any cardiac diseases, participating in women-focused CR (i.e., program or sessions included ≥ 50% females, or was 1-1 and tailored to women’s needs) were considered. Two authors rated citations for inclusion. One extracted data, including study quality rated as per the Mixed-Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT), which was checked independently by a second author. Results were analyzed in accordance with the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) reporting guideline.

Results

3498 unique citations were identified, with 28 studies (53 papers) included (3697 women; ≥ 10 countries). Globally, women-focused CR is offered by 40.9% of countries that have CR, with 32.1% of programs in those countries offering it. Thirteen (46.4%) studies offered women-focused sessions (vs. full program), 17 (60.7%) were women-only, and 11 (39.3%) had gender-tailoring. Five (17.9%) programs offered alternate forms of exercise, and 17 (60.7%) focused on psychosocial aspects. With regard to utilization, women-focused CR cannot be offered as frequently, so could be less accessible. Adherence may be greater with gender-tailored CR, and completion effects are not known. Satisfaction was assessed in 1 trial, and results were equivocal.

Conclusions

Women-focused CR involves tailoring of content, mode and/or sex composition. Availability is limited. Effects on utilization require further study.
Physiological and histopathological effects of electroporation pulse on stomach of rats
Authors: Zhang Yuchi , Han Xuan , Li Zhuoqun , Zhang Yu , Liang Lihong , Ma Xiaoying , Liu Haonan , Gao Yihui , Li Qingshan , Chen Xue , Lv Yi , Ren Fenggang
Published: September 2021

Background

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is an emerging tissue ablation technique with widespread potential, especially for cancer treatment. Although the safety and efficacy of IRE for gastric tissue ablation have been demonstrated, there is a gap of knowledge regarding the effect of electroporation pulse (EP) on the physiology and histopathology of the stomach. This study applied EP to the stomach of healthy rats and investigated the digestive function, serum marker levels, and gastric tissue structure of EP-treated rats.

Methods

Ninety male rats were divided into nine groups and examined up to 28 days post-treatment. A single burst of electroporation pulse (500 V, 99 pluses, 1 Hz, 100 µs) was delivered to the stomachs of rats using a tweezer-style round electrode. Gastric emptying, small intestinal transit, and gastric secretion were measured to evaluate the digestive function. Serum marker levels were determined using ELISA. Haematoxylin–eosin, Masson trichrome, and immunofluorescence were performed for histopathological analysis.

Results

No  significant effect on gastric emptying or secretion was found post-EP, whereas the small intestinal transit decreased at 4 h and rapidly recovered to normal on 1-day post-EP. Further, serum TNF-α and IL-1β levels temporarily changed during the acute phase but returned to baseline within 28 days. Moreover, histopathological analysis revealed that cell death occurred immediately post-EP in the ablation area, whereas the gastric wall scaffold in the ablation region remained intact post-EP.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of EP on the physiology and histopathology of the stomach and lays a foundation for more comprehensive applications of this technique.
Case report of an unusual hepatic abscess caused by Actinomyces odontolyticus in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: Hsu Shao-Lun , Wu Chin-Ting , Chang Yuan-Chen , Fan Chia-Kwung , Lee Yuarn-Jang
Published: September 2021

Background

Actinomyces odontolyticus is not commonly recognized as a causative microbe of liver abscess. The detection and identification of A. odontolyticus in laboratories and its recognition as a pathogen in clinical settings can be challenging. However, in the past decades, knowledge on the clinical relevance of A. odontolyticus is gradually increasing. A. odontolyticus is the dominant oropharyngeal flora observed during infancy [Li et al. in Biomed Res Int 2018:3820215, 2018]. Herein we report a case of severe infection caused by A. odontolyticus in an immunocompromised patient with disruption of the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa.

Case presentation

We present a unique case of a patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection who was admitted due to liver abscess and was subsequently diagnosed as having coinfection of A. odontolyticus, Streptococcus constellatus, and Candida albicans during the hospital course. The empirical antibiotics metronidazole and ceftriaxone were replaced with the intravenous administration of fluconazole and ampicillin. However, the patient’s condition deteriorated, and he died 3 weeks later.

Conclusion

This report is one of the first to highlight GI tract perforation and its clinical relevance with A. odontolyticus infection. A. odontolyticus infection should be diagnosed early in high-risk patients, and increased attention should be paid to commensal flora infection in immunocompromised individuals.
Prevalence and risk factors of chronic kidney disease in an HIV positive Mexican cohort
Authors: Valdivia-Cerda Verónica , Alvarez-Zavala Monserrat , Sánchez-Reyes Karina , Cabrera-Silva Rodolfo I. , Ruiz-Herrera Vida V. , Loza-Salazar Aldo D. , Martínez-Ayala Pedro , Vázquez-Limón Juan C. , García-García Guillermo , Andrade-Villanueva Jaime F. , González-Hernández Luz A.
Published: September 2021

Background

HIV subjects have several kidney pathologies, like HIV-associated nephropathy or antiretroviral therapy injury, among others. The global prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is 8–16%; however, in HIV subjects, the prevalence varies between geographic regions (2–38%). The aim was to determine the prevalence of CKD and identify the associated risk factors.

Methods

A longitudinal descriptive study was carried out at the 'Hospital Civil de Guadalajara' Feb'18 – Jan'19. Basal clinical, demographic, opportunistic infections (OI), and laboratory data were obtained at months 0 and 3; inclusion criteria were ≥ 18 years old, naïve HIV + , urine albumin/creatinine ratio, serum creatinine & urine test, and signed informed consent. Descriptive and multiple logistic regression statistical analyses were made.

Results

One hundred twenty subjects were included; 92.5% were male, 33 ± 9.5 years, 60% consumed tobacco, 73% alcohol, and 59% some type of drug. The CKD prevalence was 15.8%. CKD patients had a higher risk of hepatitis C virus coinfection, Relative Risk (RR):5.9; HCV infection, RR:4.3; ≥ 30 years old, RR:3.9; C clinical-stage, RR:3.5; CD4+ T cells count < 200 cells/μL, RR: 2.4; and HIV-1 viral load ≥ 100,000 cop/mL, RR: 2.7.

Conclusions

Our study showed a higher CKD prevalence in patients with HIV; higher CKD development with coinfections as Hepatitis C Virus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The identification and prompt management of CKD and coinfections should be considered to avoid the progression and to delay renal replacement therapy as long as possible.
Maternal body mass index and country of birth in relation to the adverse outcomes of large for gestational age and gestational diabetes mellitus in a retrospective cohort of Australian pregnant women
Authors: Knight-Agarwal Catherine R. , Jani Rati , Al Foraih Meisa , Eckley Dionne , Lui Carrie Ka Wai , Somerset Shawn , Davis Deborah , Takito Monica Yuri
Published: September 2021

Background

The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus in Australia has been rising in line with the increased incidence of maternal overweight and obesity. Women with gestational diabetes mellitus, high body mass index or both are at an elevated risk of birthing a large for gestational age infant. The aim was to explore the relationship between country of birth, maternal body mass index with large for gestational age, and gestational diabetes mellitus. In addition to provide additional information for clinicians when making a risk assessment for large for gestational age babies.

Method

A retrospective cohort study of 27,814 women residing in Australia but born in other countries, who gave birth to a singleton infant between 2008 and 2017 was undertaken. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between the aforementioned variables.

Results

A significantly higher proportion of large for gestational age infants was born to overweight and obese women compared to those who were classified as underweight and healthy weight. Asian-born women residing in Australia, with a body mass index of ≥40 kg/m2, had an adjusted odds ratio of 9.926 (3.859–25.535) for birthing a large for gestational age infant. Conversely, Australian-born women with a body mass index of ≥40 kg/m2 had an adjusted odds ratio of 2.661 (2.256–3.139) for the same outcome. Women born in Australia were at high risk of birthing a large for gestational age infant in the presence of insulin-requiring gestational diabetes mellitus, but this risk was not significant for those with the diet-controlled type. Asian-born women did not present an elevated risk of birthing a large for gestational age infant, in either the diet controlled, or insulin requiring gestational diabetes mellitus groups.

Conclusions

Women who are overweight or obese, and considering a pregnancy, are encouraged to seek culturally appropriate nutrition and weight management advice during the periconception period to reduce their risk of adverse outcomes.
Risks and cancer associations of metachronous and synchronous multiple primary cancers: a 25-year retrospective study
Authors: Tanjak Pariyada , Suktitipat Bhoom , Vorasan Nutchavadee , Juengwiwattanakitti Panudeth , Thiengtrong Benjarat , Songjang Cholticha , Therasakvichya Suwanit , Laiteerapong Somsri , Chinswangwatanakul Vitoon
Published: September 2021

Background

The situation of patients developing multiple primary cancers is becoming more frequent and graver. This study investigated the risks of developing second primary cancers that are related to first primary cancers, and the interval times of synchronous and metachronous multiple primary cancers.

Patients and methods

Retrospective data were retrieved from 109,054 patients aged ≥18 who were diagnosed with a first solid cancer and registered at Siriraj Cancer Center between 1991 and 2015. A two-month period between first- and second- primary cancers was used to differentiate metachronous and synchronous multiple primary cancers. The combinations of subsequent cancers and relative risks (RRs) of having multiple primary cancers versus having single primary cancer for the top-ten first and second primary cancers were examined. The RR was adjusted for age of the first primary cancer. A survival analysis of the time to second-primary-cancer development was performed.

Results

Multiple primary cancers were found in 1785 (1.63%) patients. Most (70.87%) second primary cancers occurred after 2 months of first breast, skin, colorectal, lung, head and neck, liver, male genital cancer–prostate, thyroid, and female genital cancer–non-uterine cancers, resulting in those cancers being classified as metachronous multiple primary cancer. After adjustment for age at first diagnosis, head and neck cancers had the highest metachronous association with second esophageal cancers (RR, 25.06; 95% CI, 13.41–50.77). Prostate cancer and second colorectal cancer also demonstrated a high metachronous association (RR, 2.00; 95% CI, 1.25–3.05). A strong synchronous association was found between uterine and ovarian cancers (RR, 27.77; 95% CI, 17.97–43.63). The median time from the first uterine cancer to second-cancer development was 55 days.

Conclusions

The top-ten most frequent multiple primary cancers were the following: breast; liver; head and neck; colorectal; male genital cancer–prostate; skin; female genital cancer–uterine; thyroid; lung; and female genital cancer–non-uterine. Second primary cancers showed specific associations that depended on the first primary cancer. Physicians should be cognizant of the most common combinations and the interval times of metachronous and synchronous multiple primary cancers.
Cumulative effect of risk and protective factors on unintentional injury for Chinese rural children: a nested case-control study
Authors: Zhang Hui , Bai Fengxin , Song Hongling , Yang Jun , Wang Xinlong , Ye Qingfang , Zhou Yuqiu
Published: September 2021

Background

Childhood unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death and disability for children. Despite the risk factors that lead to the occurrence of injuries have been identified, the relationship between cumulative effect of risk/protective factors and unintentional injuries is unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the cumulative effect of risk factors as well as protective factors and their interaction on unintentional injury to rural children.

Methods

We used a nested case-control study design from a cohort database. The study comprised 1696 children aged 6 to 14 years. Among them, 424 were cases with unintentional injury and 1272 were their matched control. After controlling for the significant sociodemographic variables, linear and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

The risk of unintentional injury increased with the increasing number of risk factors - RFI from 1 to 3 (ORRFI(1) = 0.978, 95% CI 0.739–1.296), (ORRFI(2) = 1.720, 95% CI 1.233–2.397), (ORRFI(3) = 5.162, 95% CI 3.129–8.517). PFI (1) was associated with lower risk of injury, but this association was at the edge of significance (p = 0.052). The increased risk in those with PFI (2) was not significant (p = 0.254). The severity of the unintentional injury significantly increased with the increasing number of the risk factors (p < 0.01), and significantly decreased with both the increasing number of protective factors (p = 0.001) and interaction of the risk and protective factors (p < 0.01).The interaction of RFI and PFI could explain 32.2% of the unintentional injury severity.

Conclusions

According to the findings of the present study, cumulative risk factors and protective factors, as well as their interaction were associated with the occurrence and/ or severity of unintentional injury in children.
Perceived social support and diet quality among ethnic minority groups in Yunnan Province, Southwestern China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Ruan Yuan , Hu Wenmin , Li Juanjuan , Zhao Jiang , Peng Min , Wan Rong , Min Xiangdong , He Shaomei , Liu Zhitao
Published: September 2021

Background

Social support is an important health determinant and may affect dietary behaviors. The purpose of this study was to examine the relations between perceived social support and the Chinese Diet Balance Index-16 (DBI-16) among ethnic minority groups in Southwest China.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted between May 2019 and August 2020 among six ethnic minority groups native to Yunnan Province (n = 3564). Perceived social support from family, friends and significant others were measured with the Multi-dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Dietary data were obtained using a 100-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and a lifestyle questionnaire. Lower Bound Score (LBS), Higher Bound Score (HBS) and Diet Quality Distance (DQD) which represent inadequate, excessive and unbalanced food intake respectively were calculated to measure the compliance with the recommendations of the Dietary Guidelines for Chinese 2016.

Results

One thousand four hundred ninety-six men and two thousand sixty-eight women were included. 51.2% of the subjects had moderate or high levels of inadequate intake; 21.3% had moderate or high levels of excessive intake; and 74.0% had moderate or high levels of unbalanced dietary intake. With potential confounders adjusted, support from family was negatively associated with inadequate intake, while support from friends was positively associated with inadequate and excessive intake. No significant associations were found between perceived social support from significant others and diet quality indicators.

Conclusions

An unbalanced diet is common among adults of the ethnic minority groups in Yunnan Province, Southwest China. Social support should be taken into account in designing nutrition interventions rather than focusing solely on individuals.
Which experimental procedures influence the apparent proximal femoral stiffness? A parametric study
Authors: Amini Morteza , Reisinger Andreas , Hirtler Lena , Pahr Dieter
Published: September 2021

Background

Experimental validation is the gold standard for the development of FE predictive models of bone. Employing multiple loading directions could improve this process. To capture the correct directional response of a sample, the effect of all influential parameters should be systematically considered. This study aims to determine the impact of common experimental parameters on the proximal femur’s apparent stiffness.

Methods

To that end, a parametric approach was taken to study the effects of: repetition, pre-loading, re-adjustment, re-fixation, storage, and μCT scanning as random sources of uncertainties, and loading direction as the controlled source of variation in both stand and side-fall configurations. Ten fresh-frozen proximal femoral specimens were prepared and tested with a novel setup in three consecutive sets of experiments. The neutral state and 15-degree abduction and adduction angles in both stance and fall configurations were tested for all samples and parameters. The apparent stiffness of the samples was measured using load-displacement data from the testing machine and validated against marker displacement data tracked by DIC cameras.

Results

Among the sources of uncertainties, only the storage cycle affected the proximal femoral apparent stiffness significantly. The random effects of setup manipulation and intermittent μCT scanning were negligible. The 15∘ deviation in loading direction had a significant effect comparable in size to that of switching the loading configuration from neutral stance to neutral side-fall.

Conclusion

According to these results, comparisons between the stiffness of the samples under various loading scenarios can be made if there are no storage intervals between the different load cases on the same samples. These outcomes could be used as guidance in defining a highly repeatable and multi-directional experimental validation study protocol.
Association between chronic periodontitis and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease: combination of text mining and GEO dataset
Authors: Jiang Zhengye , Shi Yanxi , Zhao Wenpeng , Zhou Liwei , Zhang Bingchang , Xie Yuanyuan , Zhang Yaya , Tan Guowei , Wang Zhanxiang
Published: September 2021

Background

Although chronic periodontitis has previously been reported to be linked with Alzheimer's disease (AD), the pathogenesis between the two is unclear. The purpose of this study is to analyze and screen the relevant and promising molecular markers between chronic periodontitis and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

In this paper, we analyzed three AD expression datasets and extracted differentially expressed genes (DEGs), then intersected them with chronic periodontitis genes obtained from text mining, and finally obtained integrated DEGs. We followed that by enriching the matching the matching cell signal cascade through DAVID analysis. Moreover, the MCODE of Cytoscape software was employed to uncover the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and the matching hub gene. Finally, we verified our data using a different independent AD cohort.

Results

The chronic periodontitis gene set acquired from text abstracting was intersected with the previously obtained three AD groups, and 12 common genes were obtained. Functional enrichment assessment uncovered 12 cross-genes, which were mainly linked to cell morphogenesis involved in neuron differentiation, leading edge membrane, and receptor ligand activity. After PPI network creation, the ten hub genes linked to AD were retrieved, consisting of SPP1, THY1, CD44, ITGB1, HSPB3, CREB1, SST, UCHL1, CCL5 and BMP7. Finally, the function terms in the new independent dataset were used to verify the previous dataset, and we found 22 GO terms and one pathway, "ECM-receptor interaction pathways", in the overlapping functional terms.

Conclusions

The establishment of the above-mentioned candidate key genes, as well as the enriched signaling cascades, provides promising molecular markers for chronic periodontitis-related AD, which may help the diagnosis and treatment of AD patients in the future.
Same, same, but different? A longitudinal, mixed-methods study of stability in values and preferences for future end-of-life care among community-dwelling, older adults
Authors: Eneslätt Malin , Helgesson Gert , Tishelman Carol
Published: September 2021

Background

End-of-life preferences may change over time, e.g. due to illness progression or life events. Research on stability of end-of-life preferences has largely focused on life-sustaining treatments in seriously ill patients or medical decision-making based on hypothetical illness scenarios and possible treatment options. Few studies focus on community-dwellers in natural settings. The aim of this study was thus to explore if and how community-dwelling, older adults’ prioritizations and reasoning about values and preferences for future end-of-life care change over time.

Methods

Using a mixed-methods design, we explored stability of end-of-life preferences in older community-dwelling adults without imminent end-of-life care needs. At two timepoints (T1 and T2), 5.5–12 months apart, 52 individuals discussed what would be important to them at the end-of-life, through open conversations and while using DöBra cards, a Swedish version of GoWish cards. Participants ranked their most important card statements from 1 to 10. Stability in card rankings, i.e. a card recurring in the top-10 ranking at T2 regardless of position, was explored using descriptive statistics and non-parametric analyses. Participants’ reasoning about card choices were explored with longitudinal qualitative analysis.

Results

Stability between T1 and T2 in the top-10 priorities ranged from 20 to 80%, median 60%. Stability in cards rankings could not be explained by changes in participants’ health status, extent of card use (no/little/frequent use) between interviews, or days between T1 and T2, nor was it related to demographic variables. Qualitative analysis showed that consistent reasoning was not always paired with consistency in card choices and changed card choices were not always related to changes in reasoning.

Conclusions

Longitudinal exploration combining DöBra card rankings with underlying reasoning about end-of-life preferences over time furthers knowledge on the dynamics between values and preferences in end-of-life decision-making. Individuals’ end-of-life preferences in form of card choices were relatively stable over time albeit with large variation between different individuals. However, the values and underlying reasoning that participants used to motivate their choices appeared more stable than ranking of card choices. We thus conclude that concurrent conversation-based exploration is a more comprehensive indicator of end-of-life values and preferences over time than ranking of cards alone.
Individual notions of fair data sharing from the perspectives of Swiss stakeholders
Authors: Geneviève Lester Darryl , Martani Andrea , Elger Bernice Simone , Wangmo Tenzin
Published: September 2021

Background

The meaningful sharing of health data between different stakeholders is central to the advancement of science and to improve care offered to individual patients. However, it is important that the interests of individual stakeholders involved in this data sharing ecosystem are taken into account to ensure fair data sharing practices. In this regard, this qualitative study investigates such practices from the perspectives of a subset of relevant Swiss expert stakeholders, using a distributive justice lens.

Methods

Using purposive and snowball sampling methodologies, 48 expert stakeholders from the Swiss healthcare and research domains were recruited for semi-structured interviews. After the experts had consented, the interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, but omitting identifying information to ensure confidentiality and anonymity. A thematic analysis using a deductive approach was conducted to identify fair data sharing practices for secondary research purposes. Themes and subthemes were then identified and developed during the analysis.

Results

Three distributive justice themes were identified in the data sharing negotiation processes, and these are: (i) effort, which was subcategorized into two subthemes (i.e. a claim to data reciprocity and other reciprocal advantages, and a claim to transparency on data re-use), (ii) compensation, which was subcategorized into two subthemes (i.e. a claim to an academic compensation and a claim to a financial compensation), and lastly, (iii) contribution, i.e. the significance of data contributions should be matched with a corresponding reward.

Conclusions

This qualitative study provides insights, which could inform policy-making on claims and incentives that encourage Swiss expert stakeholders to share their datasets. Importantly, several claims have been identified and justified under the basis of distributive justice principles, whilst some are more debatable and likely insufficient in justifying data sharing activities. Nonetheless, these claims should be taken seriously and discussed more broadly. Indeed, promoting health research while ensuring that healthcare systems guarantee better services, it is paramount to ensure that solutions developed are sustainable, provide fair criteria for academic careers and promote the sharing of high quality data to advance science.
Species co-occurrence and management intensity modulate habitat preferences of forest birds
Authors: Basile Marco , Asbeck Thomas , Cordeiro Pereira João M. , Mikusiński Grzegorz , Storch Ilse
Published: September 2021

Background

Species co-occurrences can have profound effects on the habitat use of species, and therefore habitat structure alone cannot fully explain observed abundances. To account for this aspect of community organization, we developed multi-species abundance models, incorporating the local effect of co-occurring and potentially associated species, alongside with environmental predictors, linked mainly to forest management intensity. We coupled it with a landscape-scale analysis to further examine the role of management intensity in modifying the habitat preferences in connection with the landscape context. Using empirical data from the Black Forest in southern Germany, we focused on the forest bird assemblage and in particular on the cavity-nesting and canopy-foraging guilds. We included in the analysis species that co-occur and for which evidence suggests association is likely.

Results

Our findings show that the local effect of species associations can mitigate the effects of management intensity on forest birds. We also found that bird species express wider habitat preferences in forests under higher management intensity, depending on the landscape context.

Conclusions

We suspect that species associations may facilitate the utilization of a broader range of environmental conditions under intensive forest management, which benefits some species over others. Networks of associations may be a relevant factor in the effectiveness of conservation-oriented forest management.
Does bronchial hyperresponsiveness predict a diagnosis of cough variant asthma in adults with chronic cough: a cohort study
Authors: Rybka-Fraczek Aleksandra , Dabrowska Marta , Grabczak Elzbieta M. , Bialek-Gosk Katarzyna , Klimowicz Karolina , Truba Olga , Krenke Rafal
Published: September 2021

Bronchial hyperresponsiveness is a typical, but non-specific feature of cough variant asthma (CVA). This study aimed to determine whether bronchial hyperresponsiveness may be considered as a predictor of CVA in non-smoking adults with chronic cough (CC). The study included 55 patients with CC and bronchial hyperresponsiveness confirmed in the methacholine provocation test, in whom an anti-asthmatic, gradually intensified treatment was introduced. The diagnosis of CVA was established if the improvement in cough severity and cough-related quality of life in LCQ were noted.The study showed a high positive predictive value of bronchial hyperresponsiveness in this population. Cough severity and cough related quality of life were not related to the severity of bronchial hyperresponsiveness in CVA patients. A poor treatment outcome was related to a low baseline capsaicin threshold and the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux-related symptoms. In conclusion, bronchial hyperresponsiveness could be considered as a predictor of cough variant asthma in non-smoking adults with CC.
Midkine promotes glioblastoma progression via PI3K-Akt signaling
Authors: Hu Beiquan , Qin Chao , Li Li , Wei Lei , Mo Xianlun , Fan Huasheng , Lei Yuanhua , Wei Feng , Zou Donghua
Published: September 2021

Background

Our previous bioinformatics-based study found that midkine (MDK) was associated with poor prognosis of glioblastoma (GBM). However, the mechanism of MDK in GBM remains elusive.

Methods

A public GBM-related dataset and GBM tissues from our center were used validate the aberrant expression of MDK in GBM at the RNA and protein levels. The relationship between MDK expression and survival of GBM patients was also explored through survival analysis. Subsequently, we identified MDK-related GBM-specific genes using differential expression analysis. Functional enrichment analyses were performed to reveal their potential biological functions. CCK-8, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine, and Matrigel-transwell assays were performed in GBM cell lines in which MDK was knocked out or overexpressed in order assess the effects of MDK on proliferation, migration, and invasion of GBM cells. Western blotting was performed to detect candidate proteins.

Results

Our study showed MDK is a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for GBM because it is highly expressed in the disease and it is associated with poor prognosis. MDK is involved in various cancer-related pathways, such as PI3K-Akt signaling, the cell cycle, and VEGF signaling. A comprehensive transcriptional regulatory network was constructed to show the potential pathways through which MDK may be involved in GBM. In vitro, Overexpression of MDK augmented proliferation, migration, and invasion of GBM cell lines, whereas suppression of MDK led to the opposite effects. Furthermore, our study confirmed that MDK promotes the progression of GBM by activating the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Our present study proposes that MDK promotes GBM by activating the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and it describes a potential regulatory network involved.
A comprehensive insight into effects of green tea extract in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review
Authors: Maleki Vahid , Taheri Ehsaneh , Varshosaz Parisa , Tabrizi Fatemeh Pourteymour Fard , Moludi Jalal , Jafari-Vayghan Hamed , Shadnoush Mahdi , Jabbari Seyed Hossein Yahyazadeh , Seifoleslami Mehri , Alizadeh Mohammad
Published: September 2021

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive-aged women, is characterized by oxidative stress and ovarian tissue inflammation. Green tea extract (GTE) potentially possesses therapeutic effects for PCOS because of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. This systematic review evaluates the potential roles of GTE on metabolic variables, hormone levels, and ovarian function in PCOS.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted of published studies reporting the effects of GTE on PCOS. Several major databases, including PubMed, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar, were searched up from inception to April 2021. Clinical trials and animal studies that assessed the effects of GTE on PCOS were eligible for inclusion.

Results

Of 314 articles found in the search, four human studies and four animal studies were included. All studies in humans showed the effects of GTE on weight loss. GTE’s effect on decreasing testosterone levels in humans and LH levels in animals were also reported. In addition, increases in FSH and progesterone levels in animal models were observed. Although GTE improved fasting blood sugar and insulin levels, the effect of GTE on inflammatory parameters, such as TNF-alpha and IL-6 and antioxidant status, was limited to animal studies.

Conclusion

Therefore, this review suggests that GTE could be considered a potential agent to attenuate PCOS complications mainly due to its effect on weight loss and glycemic levels. However, more studies are needed to formulate conclusions about the effects and mechanisms of GTE in PCOS.
Substandard and falsified medical products: bibliometric analysis and mapping of scientific research
Authors: Sweileh Waleed M.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Substandard and falsified (SF) medical products are a global public health threat. The presence and spread of SF drugs negatively affect (1) patients’ safety and health outcomes, (2) national economy, (3) public trust in the healthcare system, and (4) the international fight against serious health challenges such as malaria and antimicrobial resistance. The objective of the current study was to investigate and provide a snapshot analysis of the evolution and developmental patterns of global research publications on SF products.

Methods

A bibliometric approach was adopted using terms such as fake, falsified, counterfeit, substandard, and others. No language restriction was made. The study period was from 1900 up to 2020. The search strategy was validated and implemented using Scopus database.

Results

The search strategy retrieved 978 documents authored by 2861 researchers from 100 different countries and published in 421 different journals. The retrieved documents received 11,237 citations (11.5 citations per document) with an H-index of 53. The 978 documents retrieved from Scopus were published from 1961 to 2020, giving an average of 16.6 publications per year. The present study indicated that research on SF medical products: (a) has experienced a steep growth from 2001 to 2012 followed by a steady-state growth; (b) was disseminated in a wide range of journals, mainly in the fields of the pharmaceutical industry, analytical chemistry, public health, infectious diseases, and internal medicine; (c) was published by scholars with diverse and distant geographical backgrounds; (d) was mainly produced in the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany; (d) has fragmented research networks and a limited number of researchers per network; (e) has limited cross-country collaboration except for that between the US and the UK in one hand and countries in the Mekong region in the other hand; (f) emphasized on medications related to malaria and sexual stimulants; and (g) received relatively inadequate funding.

Conclusions

Research on SF medical products is important and should remain a priority to ensure good quality of medications. Research activity in the field needs to be encouraged in world regions such as Africa and the Middle East where drug regulations are unsatisfactory and cross-border trade of illegal medications is common.
The Great Belt train accident: the emergency medical services response
Authors: Hansen Peter Martin , Jepsen Søren Bruun , Mikkelsen Søren , Rehn Marius
Published: September 2021

Background

Major incidents (MI) are rare occurrences in Scandinavia. Literature depicting Scandinavian MI management is scarce and case reports and research is called for. In 2019, a trailer falling off a freight train struck a passing high-speed train on the Great Belt Bridge in Denmark, killing eight people instantly and injuring fifteen people. We aim to describe the emergency medical services (EMS) response to this MI and evaluate adherence to guidelines to identify areas of improvement for future MI management.

Case presentation

Nineteen EMS units were dispatched to the incident site. Ambulances transported fifteen patients to a trauma centre after evacuation. Deceased patients were pronounced life-extinct on-scene. Radio communication was partly compromised, since 38.9% of the radio shifts were not according to the planned radio grid and presented a potential threat to patient outcome and personnel safety. Access to the incident site was challenging and delayed due to traffic congestion and safety issues.

Conclusion

Despite harsh weather conditions and complex logistics, the availability of EMS units was sufficient and patient treatment and evacuation was uncomplicated. Triage was relevant, but at the physicians’ discretion. Important findings were communication challenges and the consequences of difficult access to the incident site. There is a need for an expansion of capacity in formal education in MI management in Denmark.
Resilience strategies of West African pastoralists in response to scarce forage resources
Authors: Ouédraogo Karim , Zaré Alhassane , Korbéogo Gabin , Ouédraogo Oumarou , Linstädter Anja
Published: September 2021

Finding sufficient natural fodder resources to feed livestock has become a challenge for herders in the Sahel zone of Burkina Faso. Despite the existence of pastoral reserves, the issue of fodder shortage remains unsolved. This article highlights the changes in behaviour and the evolution of pastoral practices caused by the scarcity of forage resources. These changes are defined and classified as resilience strategies. Thus, this paper aims to analyse these strategies using new semantics that calls for other forms of perceptions or approach to the questions of pastoralists’ resilience strategies. Interviews (semi-structured and casual conversations), ethnographic observations and ethnobotanical surveys were used to collect data. In rangelands, such high value fodder species as Andropogon gayanus, Pennisetum pedicellatum and Dactyloctenium aegyptium that were abundant herbaceous plants during the last decades are disappearing. Concomitantly, species with lower forage value, such as Senna obtusifolia, which are more resilient to ecological disturbance factors, are colonizing rangelands. Faced with these ecological changes, pastoralists are trying to redefine and reconfigure their practices, and this implies a redefinition of their identity. They use resilience strategies such as mowing grasses, building up fodder bundles, conserving crop residues, exploiting Senna obtusifolia (a previously neglected species), using woody fodder and adapting the type of livestock and the size of the herds to the ability of pastoralists to feed them. Strategies that are older than these are the integration of agriculture with livestock and decollectivized transhumance. It is these resilience strategies that this article exposes and analyses as defence mechanisms of Sahelian pastoralists in the face of the depletion of forage resources in their environments.
Prognostic factors for persistent symptoms in adults with mild traumatic brain injury: protocol for an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Déry Julien , De Guise Élaine , Bussières Ève-Line , Lamontagne Marie-Eve
Published: September 2021

Background

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is an increasing public health problem that can lead to persistent symptoms that have several functional consequences. Understanding the prognosis of a condition is an important component of clinical decision-making and can help guide the prevention of long-term disabilities of patients with mTBI. Several studies and systematic reviews have been conducted in order to understand prognosis of chronic symptoms following mTBI. We aim to synthesize evidence from systematic reviews on factors that affect the risk of persistent symptoms in mTBI-affected adults.

Methods

We will conduct an overview of systematic reviews following steps described in the Cochrane Handbook. We will search in Cochrane, Medline, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, and Epistemonikos for systematic reviews about the prognosis of persistent symptoms following mTBI in the adult population. Two reviewers will independently screen all references and then select eligible reviews based on eligibility criteria. A data extraction grid will be used to extract relevant information. The risk of bias in the included reviews will be assessed using the ROBIS tool. Data will be synthesized into a comprehensive conceptual model in order to have a better understanding of the predictive factors of post-concussion symptoms following mTBI.

Discussion

Results will help multiple stakeholders, such as clinicians and rehabilitation program managers, to understand the prognosis of long-term consequences following mTBI. It could guide stakeholders to recognize their patients’ prognostic factors and to invest their time and resources in patients who need it the most.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42020176676.
Convergence for sums of i.i.d. random variables under sublinear expectations
Authors: Xu Mingzhou , Cheng Kun
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we obtain equivalent conditions of complete moment convergence of the maximum for partial weighted sums of independent identically distributed random variables under sublinear expectations space. The results obtained in the paper are extensions of the equivalent conditions of complete moment convergence of the maximum under classical linear expectation space.
On solution of generalized proportional fractional integral via a new fixed point theorem
Authors: Das Anupam , Suwan Iyad , Deuri Bhuban Chandra , Abdeljawad Thabet
Published: September 2021

The aim of this paper is the solvability of generalized proportional fractional(GPF) integral equation at Banach space$\mathbb{E}$E. Herein, we have established a new fixed point theorem which is then applied to the GPF integral equation in order to establish the existence of solution on the Banach space. At last, we have illustrated a genuine example that verified our theorem and gave a strong support to prove it.