bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro study on the effect of cornin on the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes
Authors: Zhang Qun , Qu Zengqiang , Zhou Yanqing , Zhou Jin , Yang Junwei , Li Shengjian , Xu Qiuping , Zhou Xuedong
Published: May 2021

Background

Cornin is a commonly used herb in cardiology for its cardioprotective effect. The effect of herbs on the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP450s) can induce adverse drug-drug interaction even treatment failure. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the effect of cornin on the activity of CYP450s, which can provide more guidance for the clinical application of cornin.

Methods

Cornin (100 μM) was incubated with eight isoforms of CYP450s, including CYP1A2, 2A6, 3A4, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 2E1, in pooled human liver microsomes. The inhibition model and corresponding parameters were also investigated.

Results

Cornin exerted significant inhibitory effect on the activity of CYP3A4, 2C9, and 2E1 in a dose-dependent manner with the IC50values of 9.20, 22.91, and 14.28 μM, respectively (p < 0.05). Cornin inhibited the activity of CYP3A4 non-competitively with theKivalue of 4.69 μM, while the inhibition of CYP2C9 and 2E1 by cornin was competitive with theKivalue of 11.31 and 6.54 μM, respectively. Additionally, the inhibition of CYP3A4 by cornin was found to be time-dependent with theKI/Kinactvalue of 6.40/0.055 min− 1·μM− 1.

Conclusions

The inhibitory effect of cornin on the activity of CYP3A4, 2C9, and 2E1 indicated the potential drug-drug interaction between cornin and drugs metabolized by these CYP450s, which needs further investigation and validation.
Natural abundance isotope ratios to differentiate sources of carbon used during tumor growth in vivo
Authors: Holland Petter , Hagopian William M. , Jahren A. Hope , Rusten Tor Erik
Published: May 2021

Background

Radioactive or stable isotopic labeling of metabolites is a strategy that is routinely used to map the cellular fate of a selected labeled metabolite after it is added to cell culture or to the circulation of an animal. However, a labeled metabolite can be enzymatically changed in cellular metabolism, complicating the use of this experimental strategy to understand how a labeled metabolite moves between organs. These methods are also technically demanding, expensive and potentially toxic. To allow quantification of the bulk movement of metabolites between organs, we have developed a novel application of stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS).

Results

We exploit natural differences in 13C/12C ratios of plant nutrients for a low-cost and non-toxic carbon labeling, allowing a measurement of bulk carbon transfer between organs in vivo. IRMS measurements were found to be sufficiently sensitive to measure organs from individual Drosophila melanogaster larvae, giving robust measurements down to 2.5 μg per sample. We apply the method to determine if carbon incorporated into a growing solid tumor is ultimately derived from food or host tissues.

Conclusion

Measuring tumor growth in a D. melanogaster larvae tumor model reveals that these tumors derive a majority of carbon from host sources. We believe the low cost and non-toxic nature of this methodology gives it broad applicability to study carbon flows between organs also in other animals and for a range of other biological questions.
Osimertinib alone as second-line treatment for brain metastases (BM) control may be more limited than for non-BM in advanced NSCLC patients with an acquired EGFR T790M mutation
Authors: Li Changhui , Nie Wei , Guo Jingdong , Xiong Anning , Zhong Hua , Chu Tianqing , Zhong Runbo , Xu Jianlin , Lu Jun , Zheng Xiaoxuan , Zhang Bo , Shen Yinchen , Pan Feng , Han Baohui , Zhang Xueyan
Published: May 2021

Background

This study was designed to investigate the difference between brain metastases (BM) and non-brain metastases (non-BM) treated by osimertinib in advanced patients with an acquired EGFR T790M mutation after obtaining first-generation EGFR-TKI resistance.

Methods

A total number of 135 first-generation EGFR-TKI-resistant patients with an acquired EGFR T790M mutation were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into BM and non-BM groups. According to the type of treatment (whether brain radiotherapy), the BM patients were divided into an osimertinib combined with brain radiotherapy group and an osimertinib without brain radiotherapy group. In addition, according to the type of BM (the sequence between BM and osimertinib), the BM patients were subdivided into an osimertinib after BM group (initial BM developed after obtaining first-generation EGFR-TKI resistance) and an osimertinib before BM group (first-generation EGFR-TKI resistance then osimertinib administration performed; initial BM was not developed until osimertinib resistance). The progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. The primary endpoint was OS between BM and no-BM patients. The secondary endpoints were PFS of osimertinib, and OS between brain radiotherapy and non-brain radiotherapy patients.

Results

A total of 135 patients were eligible and the median follow-up time of all patients was 50 months. The patients with BM (n = 54) had inferior OS than those without BM (n = 81) (45 months vs. 55 months,P = 0.004). And in BM group, the OS was longer in patients that received osimertinib combined with brain radiotherapy than in those without brain radiotherapy (53 months vs. 40 months,P = 0.014). In addition, the PFS was analysed according to whether developed BM after osimertinib resistance. The PFS of the patients that developed BM after acquiring osimertinib resistance was shorter than that without BM development, whether patients developed initial BM after first-generation EGFR-TKI resistance (7 months vs. 13 months,P = 0.003), or developed non-BM after first-generation EGFR-TKI resistance (13 months vs. 17 months,P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In advanced patients with an acquired EGFR T790M mutation after obtaining first-generation EGFR-TKI resistance, osimertinib may be more limited in its control in BM than in non-BM. Also, osimertinib combined with brain radiotherapy may improve the survival time of BM patients.
Inhibition of stromal biglycan promotes normalization of the tumor microenvironment and enhances chemotherapeutic efficacy
Authors: Cong Li , Maishi Nako , Annan Dorcas A. , Young Marian F. , Morimoto Hirofumi , Morimoto Masahiro , Nam Jin-Min , Hida Yasuhiro , Hida Kyoko
Published: May 2021

Background

Biglycan is a proteoglycan found in the extracellular matrix. We have previously shown that biglycan is secreted from tumor endothelial cells and induces tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. However, the function of stroma biglycan in breast cancer is still unclear.

Methods

Biglycan gene analysis and its prognostic values in human breast cancers were based on TCGA data. E0771 breast cancer cells were injected into WT and Bgn KO mice, respectively.

Results

Breast cancer patients with high biglycan expression had worse distant metastasis-free survival. Furthermore, biglycan expression was higher in the tumor stromal compartment compared to the epithelial compartment. Knockout of biglycan in the stroma (Bgn KO) in E0771 tumor-bearing mice inhibited metastasis to the lung. Bgn KO also impaired tumor angiogenesis and normalized tumor vasculature by repressing tumor necrosis factor-ɑ/angiopoietin 2 signaling. Moreover, fibrosis was suppressed and CD8+ T cell infiltration was increased in tumor-bearing Bgn KO mice. Furthermore, chemotherapy drug delivery and efficacy were improved in vivo in Bgn KO mice.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that targeting stromal biglycan may yield a potent and superior anticancer effect in breast cancer.
Economic benefits of livestock management in Ghana
Authors: Adams Faizal , Ohene-Yankyera Kwasi , Aidoo Robert , Wongnaa Camillus Abawiera
Published: May 2021

The traditional system of producing small ruminants (sheep and goats) contributes significantly to the socioeconomic wellbeing of farm households in northern Ghana. Besides serving as an important source of income, sheep and goats also offer important non-pecuniary benefits such as the provision of manure, savings, insurance, farm portfolio diversification, and strong social relations. However, technical evaluation of traditional small ruminant systems places much emphasis on financial gains to farmers and abstracts on the non-conventional utilities derived from the livestock system. The main purpose of this study, therefore, is to estimate the overall economic benefits associated with traditional small ruminant systems by accounting for both market and non-market values in two agro-ecological zones (Guinea and Sudan savannah) of northern Ghana. Using a multistage sampling technique, we collected cross-sectional data from 249 small ruminant farmers for empirical analysis. The results show that at least 60% of the net benefits from sheep and goat production in northern Ghana are in non-marketable (non-cash) forms. The study demonstrates that the traditional free-range system of managing sheep and goats is economically viable when the non-market value derived from the system is incorporated in the economic analysis. The findings have practical implications in improving the traditional small ruminant system for higher meat productivity and income generation in northern Ghana and elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
Potential and expression of carbohydrate utilization by marine fungi in the global ocean
Authors: Baltar Federico , Zhao Zihao , Herndl Gerhard J.
Published: May 2021

Background

Most of the research on the cycling of carbon in the open-ocean has focused on heterotrophic prokaryotes and eukaryotic phytoplankton, but the role of pelagic fungi remains largely enigmatic.

Methods

Here, we performed a global-ocean multi-omics analysis of all pelagic fungal carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), key enzymes in the carbon cycling. We studied the occurrence, expression, diversity, functional classification, and taxonomic affiliation of the genes encoding all pelagic fungal CAZymes from the epi- and mesopelagic realm.

Results

Pelagic fungi are active in carbohydrate degradation as indicated by a high ratio of CAZymes transcripts per gene. Dothideomycetes in epipelagic and the Leotiomycetes in mesopelagic waters (both from the phylum Ascomycota) are the main pelagic fungi responsible for carbohydrate degradation in the ocean. The abundance, expression, and diversity of fungal CAZymes were higher in the mesopelagic than in the epipelagic waters, in contrast to the distribution pattern of prokaryotic CAZymes.

Conclusions

Our results reveal a widespread utilization of different types of CAZymes by pelagic fungi, uncovering an active and hitherto largely unexplored participation of fungi in the pelagic C cycling, where pelagic prokaryotes and fungi occupy different ecological niches, and fungi becoming relatively more important with depth.
Identification of a novel MICU1 nonsense variant causes myopathy with extrapyramidal signs in an Iranian consanguineous family
Authors: Bitarafan Fatemeh , Khodaeian Mehrnoosh , Amjadi Sardehaei Elham , Darvishi Fatemeh Zahra , Almadani Navid , Nilipour Yalda , Garshasbi Masoud
Published: May 2021

Background

Ca2+ as a universal second messenger regulates basic biological functions including cell cycle, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell death. Lack of the protein mitochondrial calcium uptake1 (MICU1), which has been regarded as a gatekeeper of Ca ions, leads to the abnormal mitochondrial Ca2+ handling, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and increased cell death. Mutations in MICU1 gene causes a very rare neuromuscular disease, myopathy with extrapyramidal signs (MPXPS), due to primary alterations in mitochondrial calcium signaling which demonstrates the key role of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. To date, 13 variants have been reported in MICU1 gene in 44 patients presented with the vast spectrum of symptoms.

Case presentation

Here, we report a 44-year-old Iranian patient presented with learning disability, muscle weakness, easy fatigability, reduced tendon reflexes, ataxia, gait disturbance, elevated hepatic transaminases, elevated serum creatine kinase (CK), and elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). We identified a novel nonsense variant c.385C>T; p.(R129*) in MICU1 gene by whole exome sequencing (WES) and segregation analysis.

Conclusions

Our finding along with previous studies provides more evidence on the clinical presentation of the disease caused by pathogenic mutations in MICU1. Finding more variants and expanding the spectrum of the disease increases the diagnostic rate of molecular testing in screening of this kind of diseases and in turn improves the quality of counseling for at risk couples and helps them to minimize the risks of having affected children.
Correction to: Online medication purchasing during the Covid-19 pandemic: a pilot study from the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Jairoun Ammar Abdulrahman , Al‑Hemyari Sabaa Saleh , Abdulla Naseem Mohammed , El‑Dahiyat Faris , Jairoun Maimona , AL‑Tamimi Saleh Karamah , Babar Zaheer‑Ud‑Din
Published: May 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Effect of wearing a helmet on the occurrence of head injuries in motorcycle riders in Benin: a case-control study
Authors: Hounkpe Dos Santos Bella , Glele Ahanhanzo Yolaine , Kpozehouen Alphonse , Daddah Donatien , Lagarde Emmanuel , Coppieters Yves
Published: May 2021

Background

In Benin, motorcycles are the main means of transport for road users and are involved in more than half of crashes. This study aims to determine the effect of wearing a helmet on reducing head injuries in road crashes in Benin.

Methods

This case-control study took place in 2020 and focused on road trauma victims. The sample, consisting of 242 cases (trauma victims with head injuries) for 484 controls (without head injuries), was drawn from a database of traffic crash victims recruited from five hospitals across the country from July 2019 to January 2020. Four groups of independent variables were studied: socio-demographic and economic variables, history, behavioural variables including helmet use and road-related and environmental variables. To assess the shape of the association between the independent variables and the dependent variable, a descending step-by-step binary logistic regression model was performed using an explanatory approach.

Results

Fewer of the subjects with a head injury were wearing a helmet at the time of the crash 69.8% (95% CI = 63.6–75.6) compared to those without a head injury 90.3% (95% CI = 87.3–92.8). Adjusting for the other variables, subjects not wearing helmets were at greater risk of head injuries (OR = 3.8, 95% CI (2.5–5.7)); the head injury rating was 1.9 (95% CI = 1.2–3.3) times higher in subjects who were fatigued during the crash than among those who were not and 2.0 (95% CI = 1.2–3.3) times higher in subjects with no medical history.

Conclusion

Failure to wear a helmet exposes motorcyclists to the risk of head injuries during crashes. It is important to increase awareness and better target such initiatives at the subjects most at risk.
Tissue adhesives for bacterial inhibition in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulae
Authors: Pearse India , Corley Amanda , Qu Yue , Fraser John
Published: May 2021

Background

One of the most serious complications of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy is ECMO cannulae infection, which can occur at quadruple the rate of central venous catheter infections, and significantly impact morbidity and paediatric mortality. The objective of this in vitro observational study was to assess antimicrobial properties of two n-butyl-2-octyl cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive (TA) formulations for bacterial inhibition at peripheral ECMO cannulae insertion sites.

Methods

Antimicrobial properties were assessed using modified agar disk-diffusion (n = 3) and simulated agar cannulation insertion site (n = 20) models. Both assays used Staphylococcus epidermidis which was seeded at the edge of the TA or dressing. Microorganism inhibition was visually inspected and evidenced by the presence or absence of a TA bacterial inhibition zone at 24 and 72 h.

Results

Both TAs provided effective barriers to bacterial migration under cannula dressings, to cannula insertion sites and down cannula tunnels. Additionally, both TAs demonstrated distinct zones of inhibition produced when left to polymerise onto agar plates seeded with S. epidermidis.

Conclusions

N-Butyl-2-octyl cyanoacrylate TA appears to inhibit bacterial growth and migration of S. epidermidis. Application of TA to cannulae insertion sites may therefore be a potential bedside strategy for infection prevention in ECMO cannulae, but requires further testing before being used clinically for this purpose.
Effects of photofunctionalization on early osseointegration of titanium dental implants in the maxillary posterior region: a randomized double-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Choi Bada , Lee Ye Chan , Oh Kyung Chul , Lee Jae Hoon
Published: May 2021

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effects of ultraviolet (UV) photofunctionalization on the stability of implants during the early phase in the posterior region of the maxilla. The study was a randomized double-blinded clinical trial. Half of the participants received conventional commercial implants while the other half received UV-irradiated implants. The surgical sites were classified into three bone quality groups (II, III, IV) based on the grayscale value measured on cone-beam computed tomography. The values obtained from resonance frequency analysis were recorded immediately after implant placement and at 4 weeks and at 4 months postoperatively. The marginal bone level of the implants was evaluated using periapical radiographs at 4 weeks, 4 months, and 1 year postoperatively.

Results

Fifty-seven implants placed in 34 participants were analyzed in this study. In group III, significant differences were observed in terms of the differences of resonance frequency analysis values at 4 weeks (p = 0.004) and 4 months (p = 0.017) postoperatively. In group II, the UV-treated group showed significantly lesser bone loss at 4 weeks post-operatively (p = 0.037).

Conclusions

Within the limitation of the present study, we concluded that UV surface treatment on implants may increase the initial stability in the region of the maxilla with poor bone quality.
An examination of teachers’ strategies to foster student engagement in blended learning in higher education
Authors: Heilporn Géraldine , Lakhal Sawsen , Bélisle Marilou
Published: May 2021

This qualitative study examined how teachers fostered student engagement in blended learning (BL), i.e., blended, blended online, and blended synchronous courses that combine synchronous and asynchronous activities. Twenty semi-structured interviews with teachers in various disciplines, at the undergraduate or graduate level in four universities, were conducted and analyzed using an inductive approach. Therefore, the study proposed a broad and comprehensive picture of teachers’ strategies to enhance student engagement in BL, that were classified in three meta-categories concerning (i) the course structure and pace; (ii) the selection of teaching and learning activities; and (iii) the teacher’s role and course relationships. Strategies were also linked with student engagement dimensions (behavioral, emotional, cognitive), whenever possible. The findings particularly emphasized the importance of a well-structured and -paced course, fully exploiting and integrating synchronous and asynchronous modes of BL. Clearly communicating how the course would unfold and corresponding expectations as well as establishing trusting relationships at the beginning of the semester also appeared as key to foster student engagement in BL. The use of various digital tools was also highlighted to promote student behavioral and emotional engagement at the undergraduate level, whereas cognitive and emotional engagement of graduate students was mainly targeted through experience-sharing and learning co-construction between students.
Weather sensitivity associated with quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia
Authors: Hayashi Kazuhiro , Miki Kenji , Hayashi Noriyuki , Hashimoto Ryota , Yukioka Masao
Published: May 2021

Background

Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic widespread pain, and more than half of patients with fibromyalgia report that weather-related variables aggravate their symptoms. However, the differences in actual symptoms have not been measured between those with and without weather sensitivity. The present study aimed to investigate whether weather sensitivity associated with the minimal clinically important difference values of quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia, between those with and without weather sensitivity.

Methods

Sixty-four consecutive outpatients with fibromyalgia on their first visit to our tertiary center were included. Weather sensitivity was measured using self-perceived symptoms. Pain intensity was measured using the 0–10 Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Quality of life was measured using the Euro Quality of life-5 Dimensions-3 level (EQ-5D-3L) scale. The variables were subjected to univariable and multivariable analysis using the EQ-5D-3L scale.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 50 years. Forty-eight patients (75%) were women. The mean EQ-5D-3L score was 0.55. Thirty-seven patients (58%) reported weather sensitivity. In univariable analysis, the welfare recipient, weather sensitivity, and NRS values were associated with EQ-5D-3L scale scores. In multivariable analysis, NRS value and weather sensitivity were independently associated with EQ-5D-3L scale scores. The NRS and EQ-5D-3L scale scores were significantly worse in those with weather sensitivity than those without weather sensitivity. The difference in NRS values was less than 1.5 points between groups. The differences in EQ-5D-3L scale scores were 0.16 points between groups.

Conclusions

Weather sensitivity was significantly associated with quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia. There was an association with weather sensitivity and the minimal clinically important difference values of quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia. The presence of weather sensitivity could have a key role in the quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia.
Standardized Endoscopic Swallowing Evaluation for Tracheostomy Decannulation in Critically Ill Neurologic Patients – a prospective evaluation
Authors: Muhle Paul , Suntrup-Krueger Sonja , Burkardt Karoline , Lapa Sriramya , Ogawa Mao , Claus Inga , Labeit Bendix , Ahring Sigrid , Oelenberg Stephan , Warnecke Tobias , Dziewas Rainer
Published: May 2021

Background

Removal of a tracheostomy tube in critically ill neurologic patients is a critical issue during intensive care treatment, particularly due to severe dysphagia and insufficient airway protection. The “Standardized Endoscopic Evaluation for Tracheostomy Decannulation in Critically Ill Neurologic Patients” (SESETD) is an objective measure of readiness for decannulation. This protocol includes the stepwise evaluation of secretion management, spontaneous swallowing, and laryngeal sensitivity during fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). Here, we first evaluated safety and secondly effectiveness of the protocol and sought to identify predictors of decannulation success and decannulation failure.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted in the neurological intensive care unit at Münster University Hospital, Germany between January 2013 and December 2017. Three hundred and seventy-seven tracheostomized patients with an acute neurologic disease completely weaned from mechanical ventilation were included, all of whom were examined by FEES within 72 h from end of mechanical ventilation. Using regression analysis, predictors of successful decannulation, as well as decannulation failure were investigated.

Results

Two hundred and twenty-seven patients (60.2%) could be decannulated during their stay according to the protocol, 59 of whom within 24 h from the initial FEES after completed weaning. 3.5% of patients had to be recannulated due to severe dysphagia or related complications. Prolonged mechanical ventilation showed to be a significant predictor of decannulation failure. Lower age was identified to be a significant predictor of early decannulation after end of weaning. Transforming the binary SESETD into a 4-point scale helped predicting decannulation success in patients not immediately ready for decannulation after the end of respiratory weaning (optimal cutoff ≥1; sensitivity: 64%, specifity: 66%).

Conclusions

The SESETD showed to be a safe and efficient tool to evaluate readiness for decannulation in our patient collective of critically ill neurologic patients.
Association study between asthma and single nucleotide polymorphisms of ORMDL3, GSDMB, and IL1RL1 genes in an Algerian population
Authors: Ziani Mouna , Henry Amanda P. , Hall Ian P.
Published: May 2021

Background

Genetic variation has a key role in the development of asthma, but genetic influences may vary between different populations. In this study, we looked for evidence of association of key asthma SNPs, namely, rs1420101 and rs10192157 within the IL1RL1 gene, rs2305480 in GSDMB gene, and the rs3744246 polymorphism in the ORMDL3 gene, in the Algerian population. We included 266 unrelated subjects of an Algerian population in a case-control study, with 125 adult asthmatic and 141 healthy controls. DNA was extracted and genotypes determined by the Taqman PCR technique for characterization of the different genetic variants.

Results

The results show that there were no significant differences in allele frequencies for 3 of the chosen SNPs in the ORMDL3, GSDMB, and IL1RL1 genes between the asthmatic and control groups with respective P values of 0.922, 0.331, and 0.937. However the T allele of rs10192157 of the IL1RL1gene was associated with protection from asthma (P value=0.010).

Conclusion

These results indicate that there is no marked effect of rs3744246, rs2305480, and rs1420101 polymorphisms of the ORMDL3, GSDMB, and IL1RL1 genes on asthma risk in the Algerian population. However, a protective effect of the rs10192157 polymorphism of the IL1RL1 gene was found.
Robot-assisted excision of urachal cyst: case report in a child
Authors: Arena Salvatore , Rossanese Marta , Di Fabrizio Donatella , Romeo Carmelo , Ficarra Vincenzo , Impellizzeri Pietro
Published: May 2021

Background

The urachus is an embryological structure of the urogenital sinus and allantoid that connects the allantois to the early bladder in fetal life and then remains as the median umbilical ligament connecting the umbilicus to the dome of the bladder. An early laparoscopic procedure could trigger a quiescent urachal remnant to become symptomatic, causing a lesion or infection either during carbon oxide contamination or insufflation or a periumbilical or suprapubic port placement.

Case presentation

A 15-year-old girl complaining of supra-pubic abdominal pain. About 2 months previously, she had undergone laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis, and early postoperative period was uneventful. She underwent a robotic-assisted excision of a urachal cyst.

Conclusions

It has been suggested that early laparoscopic procedures could trigger previously asymptomatic urachal remnants to become symptomatic. Robot-assisted excision of a urachal cyst is a safe, effective alternative to open surgery in children.
Origin and formation model of Eocene dolomite in the upper Niubao Formation of the Lunpola Basin, Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Chen Xiaoquan , Xing Fengcun , Jiang Shu , Lu Yongchao , Liu Zhongrong , Pan Lei , Hu Huarui
Published: May 2021

Using fresh core samples, we have determined the origin and formation process of Eocene lacustrine dolomites in the Tibetan Plateau through petrological, mineralogical, and geochemical analyses. Dolomitic rocks were collected from the upper member of the Eocene Niubao Formation in the Lunpola Basin, consisting of dolomitic mudstone, argillaceous dolomite, dolomite-bearing mudstone, and mud-bearing dolomite. These dolomites are dominated by aphanotopic and microcrystalline dolomites, with minor amounts of euhedral or subhedral powder- and fine-crystalline dolomites. Carbon and oxygen stable isotopes, combined with ubiquitous gypsum in study area, indicate a semisaline continental lake under strong evaporative conditions. The revealed relatively high temperature of the dolomitization (33.8°C–119.1°C), combined with hydrothermal minerals such as cerous phosphate and barite, reflect the participation of dolomite from hot fluids. Moreover, the inferred dolomitization temperatures decrease gradually toward the center of the lake basin, suggesting the resurgence of hydrothermal fluids along a fault zone on the lake margin. This proves that frequent thermal events occurred at the boundary fault of the Lunpola Basin margin during early Himalayan orogenesis. In addition, Jurassic carbonates interacting with hydrothermal fluids, as well as strong evaporation conditions, likely provided favorable conditions for the formation of primary lime sediments. A rich source of [Formula: see text] brought by volcanic ash, hydrothermal fluids, and the Jurassic carbonates then created conditions for dolomitization during the depositional period. Strong evaporation under a relatively hot climate enhanced penecontemporaneous dolomitization, thus forming dolomite. Tibetan Plateau was under arid to semiarid climate conditions, and there was a widespread distribution of dolostones in western, central, and northern China during the Eocene period. The hydrothermal dolomites of the upper Niubao Formation testify for active hot springs, whereas lacustrine dolomite imply arid or semiarid climates during the Eocene, in the early stages of Himalayan orogenesis.
Bayesian Framework to Augment Tumor Board Decision Making
Authors: Pasetto Stefano , Gatenby Robert A. , Enderling Heiko
Published: May 2021

PURPOSE

Ideally, specific treatment for a cancer patient is decided by a multidisciplinary tumor board, integrating prior clinical experience, published data, and patient-specific factors to develop a consensus on an optimal therapeutic strategy. However, many oncologists lack access to a tumor board, and many patients have incomplete data descriptions so that tumor boards must act on imprecise criteria. We propose these limitations to be addressed through a flexible but rigorous mathematical tool that can define the probability of success of given therapies and be made readily available to the oncology community.

METHODS

We present a Bayesian approach to tumor forecasting using a multimodel framework to predict patient-specific response to different targeted therapies even when historical data are incomplete.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that the Bayesian decision theory's integrative power permits the simultaneous assessment of a range of therapeutic options.

CONCLUSION

This methodology proposed, built upon a robust and well-established mathematical framework, can play a crucial role in supporting patient-specific clinical decisions by individual oncologists and multispecialty tumor boards.
Multilevel Influences on Black Cancer Patient Experiences With Care: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Ochoa Carol Y. , Toledo Gabriela , Iyawe-Parsons Aisa , Navarro Stephanie , Farias Albert J.
Published: May 2021

PURPOSE:

Black patients with cancer report worse experiences with health care compared with White patients; however, little is known about what influences these ratings. The objective of this study is to explore the multilevel factors that influence global ratings of care for Black cancer survivors.

METHODS:

We conducted semistructured in-depth interviews with 18 Black cancer survivors. We assessed the global ratings of their personal doctor, specialist, health plan, prescription drug plan, and overall health care, and asked patients to elaborate on their rating. We analyzed the interviews with a deductive grounded theory approach using the socioecologic model to identify the individual, interpersonal, organizational, and environmental influences on Black cancer patient experiences with global ratings of care. We used an inductive constant comparison approach to identify additional themes that emerged. Two coauthors separately coded a set of transcripts and met to refine the codebook.

RESULTS:

On average, participants reported the highest mean rating for their specialist (9.39/10) and the lowest mean rating for their personal doctor (7.33/10). Emerging themes that influenced patient ratings were perceptions about their interaction with medical providers, physician communication, the doctor's expertise, and aspects of the physical facilities. Global ratings of care measures were widely influenced by patient interactions with their providers that were empathetic, nondiscriminatory, and where the doctors addressed all concerns.

CONCLUSION:

This grounded theory study identifies multiple aspects of health care that intervention researchers, health care administrators, and providers may target to improve Black cancer patient experiences with care.
Unrecognized Postoperative Opioid-Induced Movement Disorder: A Case Report
Authors: Chino Kumiko , Carness Jeffrey M. , Claudio Osorio , Haldeman Matthew , Ozaki Makoto
Published: May 2021

A 22-year-old man, with a medical history significant for posttraumatic stress disorder and chronic pain, underwent ankle surgery at the United States Naval Hospital, Yokosuka, Japan. His immediate postoperative course was complicated by episodic muscle rigidity, necessitating admission for diagnostic evaluation. The differential was necessarily broad and included local anesthetic toxicity, medication mediated effect, seizures, serotonin syndrome, and malignant hyperthermia. Cultural and systemic differences in patient care delivery at a Japanese hospital helped to elucidate the mechanism. This case highlights cultural differences in pain management and navigates the differential of an acute onset movement disorder in the immediate postoperative period.
Anesthetic Management for Endovascular Treatment of Stroke in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Case Series
Authors: Sharma Richa , Yim Peter D. , García Paul S.
Published: May 2021

A significant number of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 develop strokes with large vessel obstructions that may require endovascular treatment for revascularization. Our series focuses on periprocedural issues and the anesthetic management of these patients. We analyzed medical records of 5 patients with positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction tests for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 during their hospitalization who underwent endovascular treatment at our hospital between March and mid-June 2020. We found that our patients were different from the typical patients with ischemic stroke in that they had signs of hypercoagulability, hypoxia, and a lack of hypertension at presentation.
Puerperium Stroke and Subsequent Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator–Induced Hemorrhage: A Case Report
Authors: Hanson Ryan , Brown Peter , Temple-Cooper Mary , Hoyt McCallum
Published: May 2021

We report a case of ischemic stroke in an apparently healthy 35-year-old gravida 2 para 1 who was treated with tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) 9 hours after vaginal delivery that resulted in severe hemorrhage. Limited data suggest use of thrombolytics in pregnancy is safe, but there is a paucity of evidence assessing their use immediately postpartum. We describe successful combination of tPA with endovascular mechanical thrombectomy (EMT) for treatment of postpartum stroke, which was followed by extensive uterine bleeding.
Pneumococcal nasopharyngeal carriage and antimicrobial susceptibility profile in children under five in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Hussen Siraj , Asnake Solomon , Wachamo Demelash , Tadesse Birkneh Tilahun
Published: May 2021

Background: Streptococcus pneumonia causes high morbidity and mortality, particularly in children under five. Nasopharyngeal (NP) carriage predisposes individuals to pneumococcal infection and horizontal spread within the community. Overuse of antibiotics has been linked to increased risk of antimicrobial resistance to S. pneumonia. We investigated NP carriage rate and resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics in under-five children visiting a public referral center in southern Ethiopia.

Methods: In total, 413 under 5 children who visited the outpatient department for a health check-up, immunization or acute mild illnesses underwent NP sampling. Parent/caregiver surveys were administered at the clinic. Sterile plastic applicator rayon tipped swabs were used for NP sampling. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using modified the disk diffusion method.

Results: S. pneumonia NP carriage was observed in 39% [95% confidence interval (CI): 34.4–43.8]. Living with one or more sibling (AOR (adjusted odds ratio) 1.95: 95% CI: 1.01, 3.76), age group of 3-23 months (AOR 2.31: 95% CI: 1.07, 4.98), co-sleeping with family (AOR 2.09, 95% CI: 1.16, 3.79), attendance at kindergarten/day-care (AOR 1.84: 95% CI: 1.09, 3.11) and malnutrition independently increased S. pneumonia carriage at the individual level. S. pneumonia was highly resistant to Oxacillin (38.5%), Tetracycline (37.3%), and Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (34.2%). Multi-drug resistance was observed in 42.2% of isolates.

Conclusions: A high streptococcal NP carriage rate was observed in under-five children. The high level of resistance to commonly used antibiotics calls for enhancing national surveillance of resistance patterns and enforce antibiotic stewardship efforts.
satuRn: Scalable analysis of differential transcript usage for bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing applications
Authors: Gilis Jeroen , Vitting-Seerup Kristoffer , Van den Berge Koen , Clement Lieven
Published: May 2021

Alternative splicing produces multiple functional transcripts from a single gene. Dysregulation of splicing is known to be associated with disease and as a hallmark of cancer. Existing tools for differential transcript usage (DTU) analysis either lack in performance, cannot account for complex experimental designs or do not scale to massive scRNA-seq data. We introducesatuRn, a fast and flexible quasi-binomial generalized linear modelling framework that is on par with the best performing DTU methods from the bulk RNA-seq realm, while providing good false discovery rate control, addressing complex experimental designs and scaling to scRNA-seq applications.
Atopic biomarker changes after exposure to Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide: a small experimental study in Wistar rats
Authors: Nelwan Sindy Cornelia , Nugraha Ricardo Adrian , Endaryanto Anang , Meizarini Asti , Tedjosasongko Udijanto , Pradopo Seno , Utomo Haryono , Nowwarote Nunthawan
Published: May 2021

Background: IgE and IgG4 are implicated in atopic development and clinically utilized as major biomarkers. Atopic responses following certain pathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), are currently an area of interest for further research. The aim of this study is to measure the level of IgE, IgG4, and IgG4/IgE ratio periodically after exposure of periodontal pathogen Pg lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: We used 16 Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) randomly subdivided into four groups: Group 1,  injected with placebo; Group 2, injected with LPS Pg 0.3 µg/mL; Group 3, injected with LPS Pg 1 µg/mL; and Group 4, injected with LPS Pg 3 µg/mL. Sera from all groups were taken from retro-orbital plexus before and after exposure. Results: Levels of IgE and IgG4 increased significantly following exposure of LPS Pg at day-4 and day-11. Greater increase of IgE rather than IgG4 contributed to rapid decline of IgG4/IgE ratio, detected in the peripheral blood at day-4 and day-11. Conclusion: Modulation of atopic responses following exposure to LPS Pg is reflected by a decrease in IgG4/IgE ratio that accompanies an increase of IgE. Therefore, Pg, a keystone pathogen during periodontal disease, may have a tendency to disrupt atopic biomarkers.
Multi-modality detection of SARS-CoV-2 in faecal donor samples for transplantation and in asymptomatic emergency surgical admissions
Authors: Manzoor Susan E. , Zaman Shafquat , Whalley Celina , Inglis David , Bosworth Andrew , Kidd Michael , Shabir Sahida , Quraishi Nabil , Green Christopher A. , Iqbal Tariq , Beggs Andrew D.
Published: May 2021

Background: Faecal transplantation is an evidence-based treatment for Clostridioides difficile. Patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 have been shown to shed the virus in stool for up to 33 days, well beyond the average clearance time for upper respiratory tract shedding. We carried out an analytical and clinical validation of reverse-transcriptase quantitative (RT-qPCR) as well as LAMP, LamPORE and droplet digital PCR in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in stool from donated samples for faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), spiked samples and asymptomatic inpatients in an acute surgical unit. 

Methods: Killed SARS-CoV-2 viral lysate and extracted RNA was spiked into donor stool & FMT and a linear dilution series from 10-1 to 10-5 and tested via RT-qPCR, LAMP, LamPORE and ddPCR against SARS-CoV-2. Patients admitted to the critical care unit with symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 and sequential asymptomatic patients from acute presentation to an acute surgical unit were also tested.

Results: In a linear dilution series, detection of the lowest dilution series was found to be 8 copies per microlitre of sample. Spiked lysate samples down to 10-2 dilution were detected in FMT samples using RTQPCR, LamPORE and ddPCR and down to 10-1 with LAMP. In symptomatic patients 5/12 had detectable SARS-CoV-2 in stool via RT-qPCR and 6/12 via LamPORE, and in 1/97 asymptomatic patients via RT-qPCR.

Conclusion: RT-qPCR can be detected in FMT donor samples using RT-qPCR, LamPORE and ddPCR to low levels using validated pathways. As previously demonstrated, nearly half of symptomatic and less than one percent of asymptomatic patients had detectable SARS-CoV-2 in stool.
„Rozkosz dla zmysłów”, czyli język kart dań
Authors: Przymuszała Lidia
Published: May 2021

“Delight for the Senses” or the Language Used in Menus

This article is about language used in menus. The recently changing approach to cooking and eating is also reflected in language that describes food. Restaurant menus are a clear example of this. It is because eating, i. e. experiencing the taste of dishes, does not only take using our tongue, but it also involves using language. Some restaurant owners are aware of the relationship between taste and word, which is reflected in the way some dishes are described in menu cards offered to customers. The purpose of the article is to analyse menus of selected restaurants and to show some linguistic tricks used by restaurant owners to encourage customers to eat in their restaurants.
Witold Taszycki und die Sorabistik
Authors: Kaulfürst Fabian
Published: May 2021

Witold Taszycki and Sorbian Studies

Witold Taszycki was one of the best-known Polish experts in Sorbian studies of his time. He became enthusiastic about Sorbs at a young age. In 1916 he joined the Maćica Serbska. Twice, in 1922 and 1923, he visited Lusatia. His most important linguistic work, explicitly devoted to Sorbian and directly related to his habilitation process, deals with the position of the Sorbian language within the West Slavic linguistic area. After analysing selected historical phonetic features, he divides this main group of Slavic into two original subgroups: Lechitic-Sorbian and Czech-Slovakian. His other major philological-linguistic works on Sorbian language remain unfinished, including the edition of the Wolfenbüttel Lower Sorbian Psalter and the hymnal and the catechism of Albinus Mollerus. Taszycki wrote several reviews of works written by other experts in Sorbian studies. Some of these reviews are quite critical. Taszycki was also interested in Sorbian culture and literature. In particular, he dealt with the reception of Sienkiewicz’s works among the Sorbs and published an annotated edition of letters by Jan Arnošt Smoler and Michał Hórnik to Kraszewski. In addition, as a university lecturer, he gave several lectures on Sorbian and the Sorbs. His knowledge of Sorbian has also been incorporated into his general onomastic works.
Working in the Unconscious Masses: Inside a Mega-Retail Store in the United States
Authors: Nelson Wyatt
Published: May 2021

Workers in the United States tend to seek individual solutions to social problems. Through personal narrative and references to academic literature, this essay explores consciousness and control in modern retail work. The essay identifies a lack of class consciousness at one workplace in particular and also seeks to explain the individualism of workers in general. I present three causes of individualism: the dominant idea that collective action is impossible, the current precarious economic situation of workers, and the effects of management techniques. Solutions based in building our real-life social networks and committing ourselves to material solidarity are suggested. In general, we can reorient ourselves to think of collective solutions. To orthodox followers of Marx, it seems self-evident that the concentration of wage-workers in towns, cities, factories, retail stores, warehouses, etc. would lend itself to the realization of the collective interests of wage-workers in proletarian struggle. To some extent, this historical observation has proved true. Yet there are significant elements of the wage-earners, especially in the United States, that pursue (usually ineffective) individual solutions to their economic woes. In short, we are isolated from each other. This short commentary seeks to frame the issue, explore the reasons behind it, and offer solutions to this contemporary problem.
I Was a Retail Salesperson: An Examination of Two Memoirs About Working in Retail
Authors: Clark Brittany
Published: May 2021

This article considers Barbara Ehrenreich’s Nickel and Dimed (originally published in 2001) and Caitlin Kelly’s Malled (2011) as representational narratives of working-class retail workers. The display of working-class experience in each work is considered in the context of the authors’ lives and experiences, considering use of language, events and broader expectations of the working life of retail salespeople. Using Stuart Hall’s concept of the ‘Other’ (2013) as a theoretical key point, the article also considers, for an American perspective specifically, how these workers are constructed in the broader ideology of the nation state.
Assessment of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in veterans with a diagnosis of dementia
Authors: Hutchinson Deborah , Chamberlain Lucy , Harrison-Dening Karen
Published: May 2021

Admiral Nurses, hosted within the Royal British Legion, sought to reframe behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in veterans with a diagnosis of dementia by focusing on the symptoms of possible delayed-onset post-traumatic stress disorder. Through an innovative approach to assessment, the authors propose that a greater understanding of underlying causes for behaviours in this population may afford caregivers a greater understanding of presenting behaviours and provide a more person-centred response to their management.
High performance for refractive index sensors via symmetry-protected guided mode resonance
Authors: Mesli Sabrina , Yala Hakim , Hamidi Mahdi , BelKhir Abderrahmane , Baida Fadi Issam
Published: May 2021

The symmetry breaking in a typical dielectric GMR-grating structure allows the coupling of the incident wave with the so-called Symmetry-Protected Modes (SPM). In this present work, the excitation conditions of such particular modes are investigated. A parametric study including the grating dimensions is carried out to exploit them for a blood refractive index sensing with higher Sensitivity (S) and Figure Of Merit (FOM). To our knowledge, the performances obtained by FDTD calculations (Q = 2.1 × 104, S = 657 nm/RIU and FOM ≃ ~9 112 RIU−1) and FMM calculations (Q = 3 × 106, S = 656 nm/RIU and FOM ≃ ~1.64 × 106 RIU−1) are the highest level reached.