bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of 3 Cell-Free Matrix Scaffolds Used to Treat Osteochondral Lesions in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Irem Demir Ahder , Pulatkan Anil , Ucan Vahdet , Yilmaz Bengi , Tahmasebifar Aydin , Tok Olgu Enis , Tuncay Ibrahim , Elmali Nurzat , Ozturk Burak Yagmur , Uzer Gokcer
Published: March 2022

Background:

Various cell-free scaffolds are already in use for the treatment of osteochondral defects (OCDs); however, a gold standard material has not yet been defined.

Purpose:

This study compared the macroscopic, histological, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characteristics of Chondro-Gide (CG), MaioRegen (MA), and poly-d,l-lactide-co-caprolactone (PLCL) cell-free scaffolds enhanced with small-diameter microfractures (SDMs) for OCDs in a rabbit model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

In total, 54 knees from 27 rabbits were used in this study. Three rabbits were sacrificed at the beginning of the study to form an intact cartilage control group (group IC). An OCD model was created at the center of the trochlea, and SDMs were generated in 24 rabbits. Rabbits with OCDs were divided into 4 groups (n = 12 knees per group) according to the cell-free scaffold applied: CG (group CG), MA (group MA), PLCL (group PLCL), and a control group (group SDM). Half of the rabbits were sacrificed at 1 month after treatment, while the other half were sacrificed at 3 months after treatment. Healed cartilage was evaluated macroscopically (using International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society [ICRS] classification criteria) and histopathologically (using modified O’Driscoll scores and collagen staining). Additionally, cell-free scaffold morphologies were compared using SEM analysis.

Results:

ICRS and modified O’Driscoll classification and staining with collagen type 1 and type 2 demonstrated significant differences among groups at both 1 and 3 months after treatment ( P < .05). The histological characteristics of the group IC samples were superior to those of all other groups, except group PLCL, at 3 months after treatment ( P < .05). In addition, the histological properties of group PLCL samples were superior to those of group SDM samples at both 1 and 3 months after treatment in terms of the modified O’Driscoll scores and type 1 collagen staining ( P < .05). Concerning type 2 collagen staining intensity, the groups were ranked from highest to lowest at 3 months after treatment as follows: group PLCL (30.3 ± 2.6) > group MA (26.6 ± 1.2) > group CG (23.3 ± 2.3) > group SDM (18.9 ± 0.9).

Conclusion:

OCDs treated with enhanced SDM using cell-free PLCL scaffolds had superior histopathological and microenvironmental properties, more hyaline cartilage, and more type 2 collagen compared with those treated using CG or MA scaffolds.

Clinical Relevance:

OCDs treated with PLCL cell-free scaffolds may have superior histopathological properties and contain more type 2 collagen than do OCDs treated with CG or MA cell-free scaffolds.
Long-term Safety of Directly Discharging Patients Home from the ICU Compared to Ward Transfer
Authors: Sy Eric , Gupta Chiraag , Shahab Zunaira , Fortin Nathan , Kassir Sandy , Mailman Jonathan F. , Lau Vincent I.
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the long-term safety of directly discharging intensive care unit (ICU) survivors to their home. Methods: A retrospective observational cohort of 341 ICU survivors who were directly discharged home from the ICU (“direct discharge”) or discharged home ≤72 hours after ICU transfer to the ward (“ward transfer”) was conducted in Regina, Saskatchewan ICUs between September 1, 2016 and September 30, 2018. The primary outcome was 90-day hospital readmission. Secondary outcomes included 30-day, 90-day, and 365-day emergency department (ED) visits, 30-day and 365-day hospital readmissions, and 365-day mortality. All outcomes were evaluated by multivariable Cox regression after adjustment for demographic and clinical characteristics. Results: Of 341 survivors (25.5% of total ICU visits), 148 (43.4%) patients were direct discharges and 193 (56.6%) were ward transfers. The median age was 46 years (interquartile range, 34-62), 38.4% were female, and 61.8% resided in Regina. Compared to the ward transfer cohort, more patients in the direct discharge cohort had at least one 90-day hospital readmission (30.4% versus 17.1% of patients, adjusted hazard ratio 2.09, 95% confidence interval 1.28-3.40, P = .003), after adjustment. Additionally, there were more 90-day ED visits ( P = .045), and 30-day ( P = .049) and 365-day hospital readmissions ( P = .03), after adjustment. Conclusions: In Saskatchewan, direct discharge compared to ward transfer was associated with an increase in 90-day hospital readmissions, and potentially other clinical outcomes. Further study is necessary.
Prednisone and long-term damage in systemic lupus erythematosus: Which is the threshold dose? A pilot study
Authors: Danza Alvaro , Graña Diego , Soto Evelyn , Silveira Gonzalo , Carlomagno Adriana , Rebella Martín
Published: March 2022

Objectives

We aimed to study the daily dose of glucocorticoids in the first month associated with damage after 5 years of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) diagnosis; and to assess the daily dose of prednisone during the first year, over which damage after 5 years could be predicted.

Methodology

A retrospective cohort study of SLE patients from the diagnosis and up to 5 years of follow-up was performed. Cumulative prednisone doses in the first month (T1m), at 1 year (T12m), and at 5 years (T5y) were calculated. Damage was estimated using the SLICC index and activity by the SLEDAI-2K. Damage at T5y was categorized as “present” or “absent”. To determine the cutoff point of prednisone dose for the first month and for the first year of treatment, related to damage at 5 years, a ROC curve was done. A logistic regression was performed to control damage at 5 years by the activity levels, anti-DNA titers, and the corticosteroid burden between 1 and 5 years.

Results

Forty-eight patients were included with a mean age of 42.4 (12.6) years; 46 (95.8%) were female. The cumulative dose in T1m associated with greater sensitivity and specificity in the ROC curve (1.54; AUC 0.793; 95% CI: 0.66–0.92) to predict glucocorticoid-related damage at 5 years of follow-up was 980mg, which leads to a daily dose for the first month of 32.6 mg/day. The daily dose during the first year associated with damage at 5 years, allowed to calculate an optimal cutoff point of 7.38 mg/day, with a sensitivity of 92.9% (AUC 0.695, 95% CI: 0.52–0.86) to predict damage at 5 years. In the logistic regression, this estimate was maintained, controlling for SLEDAI-2K and for positivity or not of anti-DNA antibodies and for the cumulative dose of prednisone between T5y and T12m.

Conclusion

This pilot study allows to estimate a threshold dose of 32.6 mg/day during the first month and 7.38 mg/day during the first year, over which the risk of permanent damage is high at 5 years, regardless of the activity levels and the glucocorticoid doses considered between the first and the fifth year of follow-up.
How and Why? A Review of Corporate Political Activity Predictors and Actions
Authors: Brown Lee Warren , Rasheed Abdul A. , Bell R. Greg
Published: March 2022

In this review, we provide a framework for understanding both the predictors and approaches of CPA that firms undertake to achieve their objectives. We identify the predictors of CPA and classify them into two distinct categories: internal and external. In addition, we suggest that CPA approaches will vary depending on the firm’s goal to either manage or mitigate regulation and legislation as compared to attempting to pass new bills into law. We conclude by suggesting several future CPA research directions for management scholars.
Ethnic Stereotype Content Beyond Intergroup Relations Within Societies: Exploring the North-South Hypothesis for Competence and Warmth
Authors: Grigoryev Dmitry
Published: March 2022

The study extends the approach of the Stereotype Content Model to ethnic stereotype content beyond intergroup relations within societies by exploring the North-South hypothesis for competence and warmth. This paper claims that the “desperate” (resource-poor and unpredictable) of lower-latitude climate regions and “hopeful” (resource-sufficient and stable) ecology higher-latitude climate regions translate into typical aggregate attributes and are afterward generalized to the status of all their residents. Further, people use this information as a diagnostic for judgments about the economic value or burden of ethnic groups in their society. Based on the data about aggregated means of competence and warmth for 77 ethnic groups in 38 regions, the multivariate models show that ethnic groups from warmer climates and from lower wealth countries are given lower evaluation in both competence and warmth stereotypes. However, ethnic groups from more northerly countries are also given a lower evaluation in warmth. Ethnic stereotypes reflect both features of ethnic groups in countries of origin (e.g., the North-South polarization) and group characteristics carried by ethnic groups in new contexts (i.e., intergroup relations). Thus, reactions to ethnic groups seem to differ partly depending on countries of origin mixed in people’s minds with information about geography, climate, and national wealth in the social perception process. Stereotypes associated with ethnic groups across countries to some extent track the stereotypes associated with the ecologies in which these ethnic groups are assumed to predominantly live. This highlights the importance of the establishment or expansion of policies and programs regarding international inequality.
(Poly-)Parenthood between project logic and gender identity
Authors: Raab Michel
Published: March 2022

Romantic love unites a man and woman as a couple. The birth of a child confirms the righteousness of this union and prolongs it into eternity – so the myth goes. Simultaneously, the demand for a well-planed and economically optimized parenthood is increasing. How do (potential) non-monogamous parents deal with these multiple demands? Based on an intersectional multi-level-analysis of 13 interviews, the article describes three gender-specific modes of subjectivation: A strong self-identification with the ideal of the autonomous subject, deconstructing fatherhood while reproducing motherhood and poly-parenthood as a project of social planning. The article shows which narratives of personal development occur empirically in relation to relationship management and parenthood, and how these narratives are either reconciled or weighed against each other. It becomes clear that the idea of polyamory as a means for personal development is widespread and is partly accompanied by an ideal of individual independence of an autonomous subject which does not go well with parenthood. Deconstructing fatherhood while reproducing motherhood turns out to systematically reinforce traditional gendered modes of subjectivation. It also became evident that there is an underlying idea of community development in which children become a part of a comprehensive project of joint self-improvement
Reliability-based design and robustness for blast-resistant design of RC buildings
Authors: Stewart Mark G
Published: March 2022

Explosive blasts from accidental or malevolent sources constitute an extreme event resulting in abnormal loads on buildings and other structures. A reinforced concrete (RC) multistorey building is assumed to be attacked by a terrorist vehicle-borne improvised device. Structural reliabilities are calculated for each RC column in the multistorey building exposed directly to the blast event. The probability of progressive collapse for the building is then estimated using system reliability analysis comprising of ground floor columns exposed to the explosive blast. The RC columns are designed according to United States blast-resistant design standard based on (i) threat dependent and (ii) alternate path design methods. The effects of threat dependent and alternate path design methods on column sizing, column reliability, and building collapse probability are investigated by conservatively assuming that collapse occurs if one or more columns fail. The robustness is also dependent on the location of the explosive. It was also found that a threat-dependent design appears to be more effective than the alternate path method in reducing building collapse risks.
Representations of the experiences of people with dementia in Irish newspapers
Authors: O'Malley Mary-Pat , Shortt Orlaith , Carroll Clare
Published: March 2022

The aims of the study were to explore what personal narratives in Irish broadsheet and tabloid newspapers reveal about the lived experience of people with dementia. The sample included twenty narratives collected from five Irish newspapers between 2011 and 2017 inclusively. The relative absence of narratives of people with dementia in Irish newspapers is shown as only twelve of the twenty narratives contained the voice of the person with dementia themselves. Inductive analysis and thematic analysis generated four main themes with a total of thirteen subthemes. The main themes are: (1) Dementia as a personal journey, (2) stereotypes and stigma, (3) barriers and (4) awareness. This study highlights the under-representation of personal narratives of people with dementia in Irish newspapers which is seen as a contributing factor in the lack of understanding and awareness of dementia in society in general. Exploring mediated representations of the lived experience of people with dementia through personal narratives provides insight into the naturalised discourses of dementia which impact on people’s lived experiences. (172)
Relevance of Type II Endoleak After Endovascular Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: A Retrospective Single-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Menges Anna-Leonie , Meuli Lorenz , Dueppers Philip , Stoklasa Kerstin , Kopp Reinhard , Reutersberg Benedikt , Zimmermann Alexander
Published: March 2022

Introduction:

Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) is widely used as an alternative to open repair in elective and even in emergent cases of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA). One of the most frequent complications after EVAR is type II endoleak (T2EL). In elective therapy, evidence-based therapeutic recommendations for T2EL are limited. Completely unclear is the role of T2EL after EVAR for rAAA (rEVAR). This study aims to investigate the significance of T2ELs after rEVAR.

Patients and methods:

This is a retrospective single-center data analysis of all patients who underwent rEVAR between January 2010 and December 2020 with primary T2EL. The outcome criteria were overall and T2EL-related mortality and reintervention rate as well as development of aneurysm diameter over follow-up (FU).

Results:

During the study period between January 2010 and December 2020, 35 (25%) out of 138 patients with rEVAR presented a primary postoperative T2EL (age 74±11 years, 34 males). At rupture, mean aneurysm diameter was 73±12 mm. Follow-up was 26 (0–172) months. The reintervention-free survival was 69% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 55%–86%) at 30 days, 58% (95% CI: 43%–78%) at 1 year, and 52% (95% CI: 36%–75%) at 3 years. In 40% (n=14), T2ELs resolved spontaneously within a median time of 3.4 (0.03–85.6) months. The overall and T2EL reintervention rates were 43% (n=15) and 9% (n=3), respectively. Within 30 days, 11 patients (31%) required reintervention, of which 2 were T2EL related. Aneurysm sac growth by ≥5 mm was seen in 3 patients (9%), and aneurysm shrinkage rate was significantly higher in sealed T2EL group (86% vs 5%, p<0.0001). The overall survival was 85% (95% CI: 74%–98%) at 30 days, 75% (95% CI: 61%–92%) at 1 year, and 67% (95% CI: 51%–87%) at 3 years. Six deaths were aneurysm related, while 1 was T2EL related within the first 30 days due to persistent hemorrhage. During FU, one more patient died due to a T2EL-related secondary rupture (T2EL-related mortality, 5.7%, n=2). Multivariable analysis revealed that arterial hypertension was associated with an increased risk for reintervention (hazard ratio [HR]: 27.8, 95% CI: 1.48–521, p=0.026) and age was associated with an increased risk for mortality (HR 1.14, 95% CI: 1.04–1.26, p=0.005).

Conclusion:

T2ELs after rEVAR showed a benign course in most cases. In the short term, the possibility of persistent bleeding should be considered. In the mid term, a consequent FU protocol is required to detect known late complications after EVAR at an early stage and to prevent secondary rupture and death.
Dexmedetomidine Protects Against Kidney Fibrosis in Diabetic Mice by Targeting miR-101-3p-Mediated EndMT
Authors: Song Li , Feng Songlin , Yu Hao , Shi Sen
Published: March 2022

Objective: Our main purpose is to explore the effect and mechanism of Dexmedetomidine (DEX)  in diabetic nephropathy fibrosis.

Methods: Diabetic model was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) treated CD-1 mice and high glucose cultured human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HMVECs). Immunofluorescence was used to detect renal endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT); Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining and Masson’s Trichrome Staining (MTS) was used to analyze renal fibrosis; CCK-8 was used to evaluate cell viability; Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to assess the expression of miR-101-3p; Western blots were utilized to judge the protein expression levels of EndMT, extracellular matrix and TGF-β1/Smad3 signal pathway.

Results: In this study, we first found that the protective effect of DEX on DN was related to EndMT. DEX alleviated kidney fibrosis by inhibiting EndMT in diabetic CD-1 mice. DEX could also inhibit high glucose-induced HMVECs EndMT. Then, we confirmed that miR-101-3p was the regulatory target of DEX. The expression of miR-101-3p was decreased in diabetic CD-1 mice and high glucose-induced HMVECs. After DEX treatment, the miR-101-3p increased, and the inhibition of miR-101-3p could counteract the protective effect of DEX and aggravate the EndMT. Finally, we found that the TGF- β1/Smad3 signal pathway was involved in the protective effect of DEX on DN. DEX inhibited the activation of TGF-β1/Smad3 signal pathway. On the contrary, inhibiting miR-101-3p promoted the expression of TGF-β1/Smad3.

Conclusion: DEX protects kidney fibrosis in diabetic mice by targeting miR-101-3p-mediated EndMT.
“Doors Started to Appear:” A Methodological Framework for Analyzing Visuo-Verbal Data Drawing on Roland Barthes’s Classification of Text-Image Relations
Authors: Grange Huw , Lian Olaug S.
Published: March 2022

Following a “visual turn” in qualitative methods, photographs and other forms of visual expression are increasingly used in conjunction with verbal data in social science research. According equal status to visual and verbal artifacts, however, poses significant methodological challenges. “Photo elicitation” methods, which typically privilege participants’ interpretations of photographs over the photographs themselves, have dominated. This article answers calls for greater reflection on and transparency in the analysis of data across multiple modes of expression. Building on previous approaches, we propose an analytical framework for interpreting visuo-verbal research data that draws on Roland Barthes’s tripartite classification of text-image relations into “illustration,” “anchorage,” and “relay.” We explore how our framework can be put into practice by applying it to photographs and written texts generated as part of the “Living with an eating disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic” project, focusing on three settings represented by participants: the hospital ward, the home, and natural environments. We subsequently reflect on some of the strengths and limitations of our framework in light of its application and with respect to established approaches to analyzing visuo-verbal data. Our framework of Text-Image Relations Analysis enables researchers to explore text-image relations as constitutive of meaning without privileging one semiotic mode over the other. As with all qualitative researcher, however, careful delineation of the meaning-making roles of participants and researchers is key.
Dilated cardiomyopathy in a cat with congenital hyposomatotropism
Authors: Lutz Bérénice , Betting Adeline , Kovacevic Alan , Durand Alexane , Gurtner Corinne , Kaiponen Taina S , Kooistra Hans , Campos Miguel , Cui Yi
Published: March 2022

Case summary

A 7-month-old domestic shorthair cat was presented for evaluation of stunted growth, recurrent hypoglycaemia during the first months of its life and altered mentation. Complete blood count and biochemistry were unremarkable, except for mildly elevated serum creatinine concentration (despite low muscle mass) and concurrent isosthenuria. Hyposomatotropism was diagnosed based on persistent low circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 concentrations and a lack of response of circulating growth hormone (GH) concentration after the administration of GH-releasing hormone. Other endocrinopathies such as hypothyroidism and hypoadrenocorticism were excluded. MRI of the brain revealed a fluid-filled empty sella tursica, consistent with a pituitary cyst and atrophy/hypoplasia of the pituitary. Echocardiography was unremarkable at the time of diagnosis of hyposomatotropism. Three months later, ovariohysterectomy revealed immature ovaries, raising the suspicion of luteinising and follicle-stimulating hormone deficiency. At 1 year of age, the cat developed congestive heart failure secondarily to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with severely reduced left ventricular systolic function and died a few days later. Pathology showed atrophy of the adenohypophysis, epithelial delineation of the pituitary cysts, mild cardiomegaly, multifocal fibrosis of the left ventricle and a mild, multifocal, chronic epicarditis.

Relevance and novel information

GH deficiency is a very rare endocrinopathy in cats. This is the first case to describe the development of DCM with concurrent hyposomatotropism, which has previously been reported in human medicine. Other notable abnormalities that could be related to GH deficiency are juvenile self-limiting hypoglycaemia, behavioural changes and possible nephropathy.
Effect of Comprehensive Multi-Provider Primary Care Visits in Type 2 Diabetes Management in a Primarily Uninsured, Ethnic Minority Population: The Comprehensive Care Initiative (CCI) Program
Authors: Montgomery Aisha H. , Best Lydia R. , Kitzman Heather , Khan Mahbuba , Mamun Abdullah , Aguillon Anabelia , Granberry Kirsten
Published: March 2022

The Comprehensive Care Initiative (CCI) utilized a quasi-experimental design to evaluate the effects of same room, multi-provider primary care visits on the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Patients with T2D were invited to enroll in CCI if they had T2D with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) >8.0% or T2D with BMI >30. CCI intervention included delivery of comprehensive same room multi-provider visits with a primary care physician, community health worker, pharmacist, dietitian, medical assistant, and licensed social worker at the same appointment. CCI patients were compared with a propensity score matched control group receiving usual care (n = 56, 50 ± 11 years old, 77% female, 41% African American, 95% uninsured). After 6 months, the adjusted average reduction in HbA1c in the CCI group was 0.97% (SE = 0.45) in comparison to 0.05% (SE = 0.20) in the control group ( P = .04). This pilot study showed promising results in lowering HbA1c in an uninsured, ethnic minority population of T2D patients through delivery of comprehensive multi-provider primary care visits.
Patient and Provider Perspectives on the Impacts of Unpredictability for Patient Sensemaking: Implications for Intervention Design
Authors: Fadem Sarah , Mikesell Lisa
Published: March 2022

Patients facing situations with significant unpredictability are met with challenges to expectation formation and preparation. One such context with unpredictable clinical outcomes is bone marrow transplant (BMT) for patients with hematologic malignancies. To understand the experience of unpredictability and opportunities for intervention, semi-structured interviews with patients who had received BMT (n  =  7) and transplant providers (n  =  8) were conducted. Thematic analysis revealed conflict between the necessity of expectation formation and the unpredictability of transplant. Providers described a tension between adequately informing patients of potential risks of transplant and presenting so much information as to create unnecessary anxiety in patients. Patients described issues with outcome unpredictability (not knowing what particular complications they would experience) and temporal unpredictability (not knowing when complications would appear). Patients struggled to make sense of unexpected complications and resulting limitations post-BMT and plan for the future amid the nonlinear recovery timeline. The challenges of unpredictability warrant a support solution that enables patient sensemaking in their evolving illness journey and facilitates adaptation to new circumstances.
Resumption of migraine preventive treatment with CGRP(-receptor) antibodies after a 3-month drug holiday: a real-world experience
Authors: Raffaelli Bianca , Terhart Maria , Mecklenburg Jasper , Neeb Lars , Overeem Lucas Hendrik , Siebert Anke , Steinicke Maureen , Reuter Uwe
Published: March 2022

Background

Migraine frequency increases after the cessation of successful preventive treatment with CGRP(-receptor) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the course of migraine after treatment resumption.

Methods

Patients with migraine, who started treatment with the same CGRP(-R) mAb after a three-month drug holiday were included in this analysis. We collected headache data at four prospective visits: 1) during the four weeks before the initial mAb treatment (baseline); 2) during the four weeks before the last mAb injection; 3) in weeks 13–16 of the drug holiday; 4) in weeks 9–12 after treatment restart. Outcomes were the changes in monthly migraine days (MMD), monthly headache days (MHD), monthly days with acute medication use (AMD) and Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6) scores across the observation period.

Results

This study included 39 patients (erenumab n = 16; galcanezumab/ fremanezumab n = 23). MMD decreased from 12.3 ± 6.3 at the end of the drug holiday to 7.8 ± 5.5 three months after treatment restart (p = 0.001). The improvement after treatment resumption was similar to the response in the initial treatment period (baseline: 12.3 ± 6.3 MMD vs. 7.5 ± 5.2 MMD before treatment interruption). MHD and AMD showed a significant improvement after treatment restart. HIT-6 scores decreased, indicating a diminished impact of headache on everyday life.

Conclusions

Reinitiation of treatment with CGRP(-R) mAbs after a drug holiday leads to a significant reduction of migraine frequency and medication use as well as improvement in quality of life.
Clustering biological sequences with dynamic sequence similarity threshold
Authors: Chiu Jimmy Ka Ho , Ong Rick Twee-Hee
Published: March 2022

Background

Biological sequence clustering is a complicated data clustering problem owing to the high computation costs incurred for pairwise sequence distance calculations through sequence alignments, as well as difficulties in determining parameters for deriving robust clusters. While current approaches are successful in reducing the number of sequence alignments performed, the generated clusters are based on a single sequence identity threshold applied to every cluster. Poor choices of this identity threshold would thus lead to low quality clusters. There is however little support provided to users in selecting thresholds that are well matched with the input sequences.

Results

We present a novel sequence clustering approach called ALFATClust that exploits rapid pairwise alignment-free sequence distance calculations and community detection in graph for clusters generation. Instead of a single threshold applied to every generated cluster, ALFATClust is capable of dynamically determining the cut-off threshold for each individual cluster by considering both cluster separation and intra-cluster sequence similarity. Benchmarking analysis shows that ALFATClust generally outperforms existing approaches by simultaneously maintaining cluster robustness and substantial cluster separation for the benchmark datasets. The software also provides an evaluation report for verifying the quality of the non-singleton clusters obtained.

Conclusions

ALFATClust is able to generate sequence clusters having high intra-cluster sequence similarity and substantial separation between clusters without having users to decide precise similarity cut-off thresholds.
A randomized controlled trial to evaluate and assess the effect of comprehensive pre-end stage kidney disease education on home dialysis use in veterans, rationale and design
Authors: Shukla Ashutosh M. , Hale-Gallardo Jennifer , Orozco Tatiana , Freytes Ivette , Purvis Zachary , Romero Sergio , Jia Huanguang
Published: March 2022

Background

Informed dialysis selection and greater home dialysis use are the two long-desired, underachieved targets of advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) care in the US healthcare system. Observational institutional studies have shown that comprehensive pre-kidney failure, conventionally referred to as end stage kidney disease education (CPE) can improve both these outcomes. However, lack of validated protocols, well-controlled studies, and systemic models have limited wide-spread adoption of CPE in the US. We hypothesized that a universal CPE and patient-centered initiation of kidney replacement therapy can improve multiple clinical, patient-centered and health service outcomes in advanced CKD and kidney failure requiring dialysis therapy.

Methods

Trial to Evaluate and Assess the effects of CPE on Home dialysis in Veterans (TEACH-VET) is a multi-method randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of a system-based approach for providing CPE to all Veterans with advanced CKD across a regional healthcare System. The study will randomize 544 Veterans with non-dialysis stage 4 and 5 CKD in a 1:1 allocation stratified by their annual family income and the stage of CKD to an intervention (CPE) arm or control arm. Intervention arm will receive a two-phase CPE in an intent-to-teach manner. Control arm will receive usual clinical care supplemented by resources for the freely-available kidney disease information. Participants will be followed after intervention/control for the duration of the study or until 90-days post-kidney failure, whichever occurs earlier.

Results

The primary outcome will assess the proportion of Veterans using home dialysis at 90-days post-kidney failure, and secondary outcomes will include post-intervention/control CKD knowledge, confidence in dialysis decision and home dialysis selection. Qualitative arm of the study will use semi-structured interviews to in-depth assess Veterans’ satisfaction with the intervention, preference for delivery, and barriers and facilitators to home dialysis selection and use. Several post-kidney failure clinical, patient-centered and health services outcomes will be assessed 90-days post-kidney failure as additional secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

The results will provide evidence regarding the need and efficacy of a system-based, patient-centered approach towards universal CPE for all patients with advanced CKD. If successful, this may provide a blueprint for developing such programs across the similar healthcare infrastructures throughout the country.

Trial registration

NCT04064086.
Infant colic, young children’s temperament and sleep in a population based longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Helseth Sølvi , Misvær Nina , Småstuen Milada , Andenæs Randi , Valla Lisbeth
Published: March 2022

Background

Colic and sleep problems are common among infants, constitute challenges and distress for parents, and are often reasons for seeking help from health professionals. The literature debates whether infant colic and sleep problems are linked together or not. Further, limited evidence exists on how colic impacts on child temperament and sleep during early childhood. Thus, the purpose of this study was to increase our knowledge of the characteristics of infants with a history of colic compared to infants without, and to study how infant colic is associated with the development of child temperament and sleep over time.

Methods

The study is based on The Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), a population-based cohort study conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. This sample contains 88,186 mothers and children. Data was retrieved from questionnaires distributed to mothers at recruitment (in pregnancy) and when the child was 6 months, 18 months, 3 years, and 5 years. Data was analysed using linear mixed models and GLM models for repeated measures.

Results

At 6 months, infants with reported colic are described as fussier, present more sleeping problems, are breastfed less, and the families visit the child health centre more often when compared to the non-colic group. Mothers of children with reported colic perceive their children’s temperament significantly more challenging from the age of 6 months to 5 years. Further, children with reported colic were more likely to sleep less than recommended (22%) and to have more frequent night awakenings (14%) than usual for their age (6 months to 5 years).

Conclusion

Infant colic often occurs together with other signs of regulatory problems which may amplify the load on the parents. Moderate differences in temperament and sleep-problems across time, between those with colic and those without, indicate that the diagnosis of colic is moderately associated with later behavioural difficulties. However, it is demanding for the parents, and important to be aware of and act upon symptoms of colic in the child health centres to reduce the parents’ load and prevent adverse long-term outcomes.
Vickers micro-hardness study of the effect of fluoride mouthwash on two types of CAD/CAM ceramic materials erosion
Authors: Kermanshah Hamid , Ahmadi Elham , Rafeie Niyousha , Rafizadeh Shiva , Ranjbar Omrani Ladan
Published: March 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of fluoride mouthwash on the surface micro-hardness of two types of CAD/CAM ceramics after exposure to acidic solutions.

Methods

40 samples (5 × 5 × 3 mm3) were prepared from two different ceramics: Vitabloc Mark II CAD, and IPS e.max CAD. The samples were randomly divided into 5 groups in each ceramic (n = 8) immersed in different solutions: Gs: saliva: GGA: gastric acid, GAA: acetic acid, GFGA: sodium fluoride + gastric acid, GFAA: sodium fluoride + acetic acid. The microhardness of samples was measured before and after immersion in different solutions by Vickers microhardness tester. By subtracting the microhardness values after and before immersion, the microhardness changes of the samples were obtained. Data were analyzed by Two-way analysis of variance, one-way analysis of variance, and Tukey test (α = 0.05).

Results

Immersion in different solutions reduced the microhardness. Microhardness loss was significantly affected in G FAA and G FGA groups in both types of ceramics (P < 0.05). For Vitabloc Mark II groups, the microhardness loss was significantly higher in GFAA and GFGA compared to IPS e.max CAD P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Fluoride mouthwash in conjunction with acidic solutions may adversely affect microhardness of Vitabloc Mark II CAD, and IPS e.max CAD that may consequently compromise the clinical service. Vitabloc Mark II CAD was significantly more affected than IPS e.max CAD.
Mutation analysis of the TUBB8 gene in primary infertile women with oocyte maturation arrest
Authors: Yao Zhongyuan , Zeng Jun , Zhu Huimin , Zhao Jing , Wang Xiaoxia , Xia Qiuping , Li Yanping , Wu Lingqian
Published: March 2022

Background

Oocyte maturation arrest at metaphase I leads to fertilization failure in humans. In early embryos, the tubulin beta 8 class VIII (TUBB8) encodes a β-tubulin isotype and aids in the assembling of the human oocyte spindle. Mutations in the TUBB8 potentially interfere with human oocyte maturation—a crucial prerequisite for fertilization and subsequent embryonic development. This study aims to investigate the novel mutations in TUBB8 and their prevalence.

Results

Hundred fertile women (controls) and eleven infertile women with oocyte maturation arrest were chosen for the study. A total of five TUBB8 heterozygous/homozygous mutations were found in eleven infertile females (p.A313V, p.C239W, p.R251Q, p.P358L, and p.G96R). The Exome Aggregation Consortium (ExAC), SIFT, and PolyPhen-2 analyses revealed that p. A313V has unknown pathogenicity and p.C239W, p.R251Q, p.P358L, and p.G96R have possible pathogenicity. The wild-type (WT) and four mutant gene constructs were transfected to Hela cells. The Western blot analysis indicates that the TUBB8 expression of the p.C239W, p.R251Q, and p.G96R mutations was significantly decreased than that of WT. The immunofluorescence assay showed that the Hela cells transfected with either p.C239W, p.R251Q, or p.G96R mutations exhibited the disrupted microtubule structure, revealing a significant difference in the organization of the microtubule network compared to the WT.

Conclusions

We identified three novel variants and two reported variants out of 11 infertile women with oocyte metaphase I arrest. According to the present data, TUBB8 gene variants account for 31.96% of all participants (109/341) with oocyte maturation arrest.
A beginner’s guide to manual curation of transposable elements
Authors: Goubert Clement , Craig Rory J. , Bilat Agustin F. , Peona Valentina , Vogan Aaron A. , Protasio Anna V.
Published: March 2022

Background

In the study of transposable elements (TEs), the generation of a high confidence set of consensus sequences that represent the diversity of TEs found in a given genome is a key step in the path to investigate these fascinating genomic elements. Many algorithms and pipelines are available to automatically identify putative TE families present in a genome. Despite the availability of these valuable resources, producing a library of high-quality full-length TE consensus sequences largely remains a process of manual curation. This know-how is often passed on from mentor-to-mentee within research groups, making it difficult for those outside the field to access this highly specialised skill.

Results

Our manuscript attempts to fill this gap by providing a set of detailed computer protocols, software recommendations and video tutorials for those aiming to manually curate TEs. Detailed step-by-step protocols, aimed at the complete beginner, are presented in the Supplementary Methods.

Conclusions

The proposed set of programs and tools presented here will make the process of manual curation achievable and amenable to all researchers and in special to those new to the field of TEs.
Insulin secretion and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects of dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives
Authors: Lee Dahae , Lee Hak-Dong , Kwon Hyukjin , Lee Hye Lim , Hwang Gwi Seo , Choi Sungyeol , Kim Hyun Young , Lee Sanghyun , Kang Ki Sung
Published: March 2022

In this study, we investigated the effects of dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives, including 1,4-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (1,4-DCQA), 3,4-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3,4-DCQA), 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DCQA), 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (4,5-DCQA), and 1,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (1,5-DCQA) on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) activity and α-glucosidase activity were compared in rat INS-1 pancreatic β-cells. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives were as follows: 1,4-DCQA > 1,5-DCQA > 3,4-DCQA > 4,5-DCQA > 3,5-DCQA. In INS-1 cells, dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives showed no cytotoxic effect at any concentration (2.5–10 μM). In addition, the GSIS activities of dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives were as follows: 4,5-DCQA > 3,4-DCQA > 1,4-DCQA > 3,5-DCQA > 1,5-DCQA. Treatment of INS-1 cells with 4,5-DCQA resulted in a marked increase in protein expression of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases (ERK), insulin receptor substrate-2 (P-IRS-2), Akt, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (P-PI3K), and pancreatic and duodenal homeobox-1 (PDX-1), which might be related to its GSIS activity in INS-1 cells. These findings indicate that the location of the dicaffeoyl functional group influences the anti-diabetic activity of quinic acid.
Familial partial atrioventricular septal defect in four related kindreds: case series and review of the literature
Authors: Alagha Sameh , Çiçekçioğlu Ferit , Başar Veysel , Cengiz ER Zafer
Published: March 2022

Background

Atrioventricular septal defects are common congenital heart defects and comprise a spectrum of anomalies, these defects were described in few pedigrees suggesting a familial pattern of inheritance, and they are more common in patients with chromosomal abnormalities. The familial occurrence of this particular type of congenital heart disease is uncommon and few cases have been identified as partial atrioventricular septal defect in adults apart from other chromosomal abnormalities.

Case presentation

We report four cases of adult females who were diagnosed with partial atrioventricular septal defect in four related families, our patients do not have the morphology of Down syndrome.

Conclusions

Further researches on genotyping such patients might contribute to our knowledge regarding this particular cardiac malformation.
Cancer Burden Among Arab World Males in 2020: The Need for a Better Approach to Improve Outcome
Authors: Mula-Hussain Layth , Mahdi Hala , Ramzi Zhian Salah , Tolba Marwan , Zaghloul Mohamad Saad , Benbrahim Zineb , Abusanad Atlal , Al-Shamsi Humaid , Bounedjar Adda , Jazieh Abdul-Rahman
Published: March 2022

PURPOSE

Cancer is a leading cause of increased morbidity and mortality worldwide. This work aims to study the Arab world males' cancers (AMCs) and the similarities and disparities with the world males' cancers (WMCs) from different burden points of view.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A descriptive review of the 2020 Global Cancer Observatory revealed AMCs compared with the 2020 WMCs and the 2018 AMCs. Data on the top 27 AMCs were compared among the region's countries and the world groups.

RESULTS

In 2020, a total estimate of 217,203 new AMCs, 2.2% of WMCs, with an average age-standardized rate of 133.5/100,000 population, compared with 222/100,000 population of WMCs, was observed. Death estimates were 148,395, 2.7% of WMCs, with an average age-standardized rate of 95/100,000 population, compared with 120.8/100,000 population of WMCs. The five-year prevalence was observed in 442,014, 1.8% of WMCs. The average AMC mortality to incidence ratio (MIR) was 0.68, compared with 0.55 in WMCs and 0.54 in Arab females. Lung cancer was the top in incidence and mortality, whereas penile cancer was the lowest. The range of MIRs among the 27 cancer types was 0.19-0.96.

CONCLUSION

The descriptive review of the 2020 males' cancers in the Arab world revealed a relatively high MIR, compared with males' cancers worldwide and the females' cancers in the Arab world. This requires further evaluation to discern the underlying causes and address them systematically. More cancer control actions are warranted.
Cowboy and Indian Alliances in the Northern Plains
Authors: Grossman Zoltán
Published: March 2022

Native Americans and white ranchers/farmers in eastern Montana and western South Dakota have often been in conflict over natural resources, such as water and grazing lands. But in the 1970s, the two groups began to develop a common interest in protecting the rural environment from large-scale development. Since the 1980s, they developed a series of interethnic environmental alliances that successfully opposed coal and uranium mines, bombing ranges, and other "outside" threats to their lands and cultures. A common defense of the local place provided a path out of historic natural resources conflicts. Alliances tended to be initiated by traditionalist and activist Native Americans who strongly asserted their tribal identity at the same time as they built bridges to white neighbors around common environmental concerns. This approach simultaneously strengthened a recognition of difference and similarities between Native and non-Native communities. The grassroots alliances promoted a territorially based, multiethnic "place membership" to build cooperation across racial lines, rather than state-sponsored "reconciliation" programs. Continuing cultural and economic differences made individual alliances difficult to sustain, although the series of alliances progressively improved relations between certain local communities.
Bacterial etiology of pneumonia in children up to 2 months of age: a systematic review
Authors: Toscano Cristiana M. , Valenzuela Maria Teresa , Martinez-Silveira Martha S. , Quarti Michelle M. , da Costa Oliveira Maria Tereza , de Oliveira Lucia H.
Published: March 2022

Background: Following the widespread introduction of childhood pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), a significant impact on pneumonia mortality in children under five years of age has been reported. It is still unknown whether PCVs are expected to reduce pneumonia burden in younger children, particularly ≤2 months of age, as current evidence on the role of S. pneumoniae in pneumonia etiology in this age group is scarce. We aimed to summarize the evidence of bacterial etiology of pneumonia in children ≤2 months of age.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review considering studies evaluating a variety of syndromes associated with pneumonia, and reporting on laboratory confirmed etiologies, considering any diagnostic method and a variety of clinical specimens.  We searched Medline/PubMed, Embase, WoS, Central and Index Medicus Global published in any language till April 30th, 2021. We included studies addressing the outcomes of interest in children ≤2 months of age and reporting on clinical trials, observational studies, and case series with at least 10 events. Screening of citations and data extraction were conducted in duplicate by independent reviewers, according to the study protocol registered on PROSPERO. Descriptive analyses of the various etiologic agents by syndrome are reported.

Results: We identified 3,744 citations, of which 22 publications reporting on 13 studies were included. Study methods varied significantly. Nonetheless, gram positive organisms, in particular S. pneumoniae, were identified as important etiologic agents of pneumonia in children ≤2 months of age. Viral etiologies, in particular Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Rhinovirus, and Influenza were also identified.

Conclusions: This review provides the most comprehensive analysis to date of the etiologies of pneumonia in children ≤2 months of age, suggesting that PCV impact is expected to occur in this age group. These results also have major implications for diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia in this age group.