bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A glass bead semi-hydroponic system for intact maize root exudate analysis and phenotyping
Authors: Lopez-Guerrero Martha G. , Wang Peng , Phares Felicia , Schachtman Daniel P. , Alvarez Sophie , van Dijk Karin
Published: March 2022

Background

Although there have been numerous studies describing plant growth systems for root exudate collection, a common limitation is that these systems require disruption of the plant root system to facilitate exudate collection. Here, we present a newly designed semi-hydroponic system that uses glass beads as solid support to simulate soil impedance, which combined with drip irrigation, facilitates growth of healthy maize plants, collection and analysis of root exudates, and phenotyping of the roots with minimal growth disturbance or root damage.

Results

This system was used to collect root exudates from seven maize genotypes using water or 1 mM CaCl2, and to measure root phenotype data using standard methods and the Digital imaging of root traits (DIRT) software. LC–MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography—Tandem Mass Spectrometry) and GC–MS (Gas Chromatography—Mass Spectrometry) targeted metabolomics platforms were used to detect and quantify metabolites in the root exudates. Phytohormones, some of which are reported in maize root exudates for the first time, the benzoxazinoid DIMBOA (2,4-Dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one), amino acids, and sugars were detected and quantified. After validating the methodology using known concentrations of standards for the targeted compounds, we found that the choice of the exudate collection solution affected the exudation and analysis of a subset of analyzed metabolites. No differences between collection in water or CaCl2 were found for phytohormones and sugars. In contrast, the amino acids were more concentrated when water was used as the exudate collection solution. The collection in CaCl2 required a clean-up step before MS analysis which was found to interfere with the detection of a subset of the amino acids. Finally, using the phenotypic measurements and the metabolite data, significant differences between genotypes were found and correlations between metabolites and phenotypic traits were identified.

Conclusions

A new plant growth system combining glass beads supported hydroponics with semi-automated drip irrigation of sterile solutions was implemented to grow maize plants and collect root exudates without disturbing or damaging the roots. The validated targeted exudate metabolomics platform combined with root phenotyping provides a powerful tool to link plant root and exudate phenotypes to genotype and study the natural variation of plant populations.
Estimation of plant height and yield based on UAV imagery in faba bean (Vicia faba L.)
Authors: Ji Yishan , Chen Zhen , Cheng Qian , Liu Rong , Li Mengwei , Yan Xin , Li Guan , Wang Dong , Fu Li , Ma Yu , Jin Xiuliang , Zong Xuxiao , Yang Tao
Published: March 2022

Background

Faba bean is an important legume crop in the world. Plant height and yield are important traits for crop improvement. The traditional plant height and yield measurement are labor intensive and time consuming. Therefore, it is essential to estimate these two parameters rapidly and efficiently. The purpose of this study was to provide an alternative way to accurately identify and evaluate faba bean germplasm and breeding materials.

Results

The results showed that 80% of the maximum plant height extracted from two-dimensional red–green–blue (2D-RGB) images had the best fitting degree with the ground measured values, with the coefficient of determination (R2), root-mean-square error (RMSE), and normalized root-mean-square error (NRMSE) were 0.9915, 1.4411 cm and 5.02%, respectively. In terms of yield estimation, support vector machines (SVM) showed the best performance (R2 = 0.7238, RMSE = 823.54 kg ha−1, NRMSE = 18.38%), followed by random forests (RF) and decision trees (DT).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicated that it is feasible to monitor the plant height of faba bean during the whole growth period based on UAV imagery. Furthermore, the machine learning algorithms can estimate the yield of faba bean reasonably with the multiple time points data of plant height.
Cannabis use prevalence among Baby Boomers before and after implementation of recreational retail sales in California
Authors: Carlson Zachary , Pham Steven , El-Sokkary Jackie , Apollonio Dorie E.
Published: March 2022

Background

As of 2021, 21 US states and territories allowed recreational cannabis use. Although previous research has identified an overall increase in prevalence of cannabis use after legalization, it has been less clear how this change will affect different parts of the population, including older adults, and specifically Baby Boomers, born 1946–1964, given their historically higher rates of use and a higher prevalence of comorbid conditions that could be either exacerbated or addressed by cannabis use. In this study we assessed whether implementation of recreational retail sales in California was associated with increased prevalence of cannabis use among Baby Boomers.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of cannabis use prevalence one year before and after the implementation of recreational retail sales in California using the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS), a statewide public health surveillance dataset.

Results

We found that cannabis use prevalence did not change among Baby Boomers but increased among non-Baby Boomers. Most of the factors found to be predictive of cannabis use in past research did not predict cannabis use among Baby Boomers.

Conclusions

Baby Boomers did not change their consumption of cannabis in the first year after opening the retail market, despite previous research suggesting that cannabis consumption increases with access, and most previously identified predictors of use did not identify people who use cannabis in this generation. Further research is needed to determine whether these effects persist over time.
Postoperative lymphatic recurrence distribution and delineation of the radiation field in lower thoracic squamous cell esophageal carcinomas: a real-world study
Authors: Du Rongxu , Fan Songqing , Wang Xiaobin , Hou Xia , Zeng Cheng , Guo Dan , Tian Rongrong , Yang Dan , Jiang Leilei , Dong Xin , Yu Rong , Yu Huiming , Li Dongming , Zhu Shuchai , Li Jie , Shi Anhui
Published: March 2022

Background

To study lymphatic recurrence distribution after radical surgery in the real world and guide clinical tumor volume delineation for regional lymph nodes during postoperative radiotherapy for lower thoracic squamous cell esophageal carcinomas.

Methods

We enrolled patients who underwent radical esophagectomy, without radiation before or after surgery, at 3 cancer hospitals. Patients were classified into groups according to tumor locations. We included patients with tumors in the lower thoracic segment and analyzed the postoperative lymph node recurrence mode. A cutoff value of 10% was used to differentiate high-risk lymph node drainage areas from others.

Results

We enrolled 1905 patients in the whole study series, including 652 thoracic esophageal carcinomas that met our inclusion criteria; there were 241 cases of lower thoracic esophageal carcinomas. 1st, 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th groups of lymph nodes, according to the 8th edition of the AJCC classification, displayed as high-risk recurrence areas, representing 17.8%, 23.9%, 11.7%, 10.9% and 12.2% of lymph node recurrence. Stage III-IV tumors located in the lower segment of the thoracic esophagus showed a tendency to recur in the left gastric nodes (7.9%) and celiac nodes (10.6%).

Conclusions

According to our results, we recommended including the 4th, 7th and 8th groups of lymph nodes in the radiation field, and for patients with stage III-IV disease, the 17th and 20th groups of nodes should be irradiated during postoperative treatment. Whether including 1st/2nd groups in preventive irradiation needed more proofs.
Evaluation of the efficacy of ipsilateral fibular transfer for reconstruction of large tibial defects in children: a retrospective study
Authors: Xu SiYu , Liu YaoXi , Zhu GuangHui , Liu Kun , Tang Jin , Wu JiangYan , Yan An , Jiang Fei , Mo ShaSha , Mei HaiBo
Published: March 2022

Background

Reconstruction of large tibial defects is often a major challenge in limb salvage. This study aimed to evaluate initial follow-up results of ipsilateral fibula transfer for the treatment of large tibial defects in children.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed between September 2014 and April 2021. Ten children were identified as having large tibial defects. The children underwent ipsilateral fibula transfer. We then evaluated initial healing, tibial length discrepancy, ankle varus/valgus, fibular position, refracture, infection, and function.

Results

Five boys and five girls, with an average age of 7.2 years, were evaluated. The transferred fibula was united in the patients. The mean follow-up period after fibular transposition was 43 months. The patients achieved primary bone union; the mean time to union was 8.4 months (range, 4–18 months). Complications included refracture (30%), infection (40%), tibia malunion (30%), ankle varus (30%), sensory loss of toes (10%), and ankle valgus (10%). No other major complications were observed. All 10 patients were able to perform activities of daily living and return to their normal activities.

Conclusion

Ipsilateral fibula transfer is a salvage surgery for the treatment of large tibial defects in children with congenital pseudoarthrosis of the tibia, traumatic nonunion of the tibia, and/or tibial defect after chronic osteomyelitis. However, long-term results still need to be followed up.
Radiographic evaluation of congruency of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in hallux valgus
Authors: Li Yan , Tao Xu , Tang Kanglai
Published: March 2022

Background

Congruency of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint is extremely important for the selection of surgical methods and prognosis, while radiographic evaluation methods are relatively lacking. The purpose of this article was to explore radiographic indicators for evaluating congruency of the first MTP joint.

Methods

We selected patients with hallux valgus who had a weightbearing X-ray in the outpatient system and measured their hallux valgus angle (HVA). In total, 183 cases of 245 feet with HVA greater than 15° were selected. The distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA), metatarsophalangeal joint angle (MTPJA), congruency index (CI) and tibial sesamoid position (TSP) were measured and statistically analysed.

Results

The higher the degree of hallux valgus was, the higher the proportion of incongruency of the first MTP joint. Significant differences were found in the DMAA, MTPJA and CI between the congruency and incongruency groups of patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus (P < 0.05). The areas under the curve (AUCs) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for DMAA was 0.554 (P > 0.05). However, the MTPJA and CI were 0.906 and 0.884, the sensitivity values reached 0.791 and 0.949, the specificity values were 0.862 and 0.644, and the critical values were 10.67 and 0.765, respectively. The correlation test indicated that in the congruency group, the DMAA and HVA were positively correlated, but the MTPJA, CI and HVA had low correlation coefficients. The DMAA and HVA were not correlated in the incongruency group; however, the MTPJA and HVA were significantly positively correlated, and the CI and HVA showed a negative correlation (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The MTPJA and CI are indicators that can be used to quantitatively evaluate the congruency of the first MTP joint, taking 10° and 0.765 as the demarcation points, respectively. Clinically, congruency of the MTP joint should be considered when choosing surgical methods for different degrees of hallux valgus, and the MTPJA and CI can be used as quantitative evaluation indicators.

Level of evidence: Level III, Retrospective Comparative Study.
The GAIRS Checklist: a useful global assessment tool in patients with Rett syndrome
Authors: Fabio Rosa Angela , Semino Martina , Giannatiempo Samantha
Published: March 2022

Background

Rett Syndrome is a severe, neurodevelopmental disorder mainly caused by mutations in the MECP2 gene, affecting around 1 in 10,000 female births. Severe physical, language, and social impairments impose a wide range of limitations in the assessment of the abilities of Rett patients. This study proposes an analysis and first validation of a Global Assessment and Intervention in Rett syndrome (GAIRS) Checklist for assessing behavioral, intellectual, academic, neuropsychological and psychosocial manifestations in patients with Rett Syndrome. We administered the GAIRS Checklist to 113 Italian patients with Rett Syndrome aged 4–42.

Aims of this study

To examine the psychometric characteristics of the GAIRS Checklist. Moreover, the aim is also to examine the validity of GAIRS with test–retest correlation, convergent validity with similar functional measurements, such as the Vineland scales, and divergent validity with severity of disease scale, such as the RARS scale and severity of neuropsychiatric evaluations.

Results

All 10 subscales of GAIRS were positively and significantly related to each other and to the total GAIRS score, and the subscales showed high levels of Cronbach’s alpha values (from .77 to .95). Principal axis factoring suggested two factors that explain 60% of the variance. Test–retest reliability is 0.82. This means that psychometric properties are reliable. Correlation for Concurrent validity with Vineland score was high and Divergent Validity with RARS was also high.

Conclusion

The GAIRS Checklist used for Rett syndrome is acceptable and feasible to complete assessment in a clinical setting. Moreover, it can detect the complexity of this disease and may suggest the next step in terms of specific training in Rett syndrome.
Whole exome analysis of patients in Japan with hearing loss reveals high heterogeneity among responsible and novel candidate genes
Authors: Mutai Hideki , Momozawa Yukihide , Kamatani Yoichiro , Nakano Atsuko , Sakamoto Hirokazu , Takiguchi Tetsuya , Nara Kiyomitsu , Kubo Michiaki , Matsunaga Tatsuo
Published: March 2022

Background

Heterogeneous genetic loci contribute to hereditary hearing loss; more than 100 deafness genes have been identified, and the number is increasing. To detect pathogenic variants in multiple deafness genes, in addition to novel candidate genes associated with hearing loss, whole exome sequencing (WES), followed by analysis prioritizing genes categorized in four tiers, were applied.

Results

Trios from families with non-syndromic or syndromic hearing loss (n = 72) were subjected to WES. After segregation analysis and interpretation according to American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines, candidate pathogenic variants in 11 previously reported deafness genes (STRC,MYO15A,CDH23,PDZD7,PTPN11,SOX10,EYA1,MYO6,OTOF,OTOG, andZNF335) were identified in 21 families. Discrepancy between pedigree inheritance and genetic inheritance was present in one family. In addition, eight genes (SLC12A2,BAIAP2L2,HKDC1,SVEP1,CACNG1,GTPBP4,PCNX2, andTBC1D8) were screened as single candidate genes in 10 families.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that four-tier assessment of WES data is efficient and can detect novel candidate genes associated with hearing loss, in addition to pathogenic variants of known deafness genes.
Musculoskeletal diseases in Marfan syndrome: a nationwide registry study
Authors: Andersen Niels H. , Hauge Ellen-Margrethe , Baad-Hansen Thomas , Groth Kristian A. , Berglund Agnethe , Gravholt Claus H. , Stochholm Kirstine
Published: March 2022

Background

Marfan syndrome is associated with abnormalities in the musculoskeletal system including scoliosis, pectus deformities, protrusio acetabuli, and foot deformities. Over a life span, many patients with Marfan syndrome will need treatment; however, the musculoskeletal morbidity over a life span is not well described. The aim of the present study was to assess the overall burden of musculoskeletal disease in patients with Marfan syndrome.

Materials and methods

A registry-based, nationwide epidemiological study of patients with a Ghent II verified Marfan syndrome diagnosis from 1977 to 2014. Each patient was matched on age, and sex with up to 100 controls from the background population.

Results

We identified 407 patients with Marfan syndrome and 40,700 controls and compared their musculoskeletal diagnoses and surgical treatments using Cox proportional hazards ratio (HR). The risk of a registration of a musculoskeletal diagnosis in patients with Marfan syndrome was significantly increased compared to controls (HR: 1.94 (1.69–2.24). One out of six with Marfan syndrome was registered with scoliosis (HR: 36.7 (27.5–48.9). Scoliosis was more common in women with Marfan syndrome compared to men (HR: 4.30 (1.73–1.08)). One out of 11 were registered with a pectus deformity HR: 40.8 (28.1–59.3), and one out of six with a deformity of the foot. Primarily pes planus (HR: 26.0 (15.2–44.3). The proportion of patients with Marfan syndrome (94/407) that underwent musculoskeletal surgery was also significantly higher (HR: 1.76 (1.43–2.16)). The major areas of surgery were the spine, pectups correction, and surgery of the foot/ankle. Ten patients with Marfan syndrome had elective orthopedic surgery without being recognized and diagnosed with Marfan syndrome until later in life. None of these had scoliosis, pectus deformity or a foot deformity. Among patients with an aortic dissection, the age at dissection was 34.3 years in those with at least one major musculoskeletal abnormality. In patients without a major abnormality the age at dissection was 45.1 years (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The extent of musculoskeletal disease is quite significant in Marfan syndrome, and many will need corrective surgery during their life span. Surgeons should be aware of undiagnosed patients with Marfan syndrome when treating patients with a Marfan syndrome like-phenotype.
Increased injury severity and hospitalization rates following crashes with e-bikes versus conventional bicycles: an observational cohort study from a regional level II trauma center in Switzerland
Authors: Berk Till , Halvachizadeh Sascha , Backup Johannnes , Kalbas Yannik , Rauer Thomas , Zettl Ralph , Pape Hans-Christoph , Hess Florian , Welter Jo Ellen
Published: March 2022

Background

As electric bicycles (e-bikes) become increasingly popular, reports of injuries associated with e-bike usage are also rising. Patterns, characteristics, and severity of injuries following e-bike crashes need further investigation, particularly in contrast to injuries from conventional bicycle crashes.

Methods

This prospective observational study included 82 patients treated at a Level II trauma center for injuries resulting from an electric or conventional bicycle crash. Data were collected over one year (05.09.2017–19.09.2018) during in- and outpatient visits. A study-specific case report form was used to identify the bicycle type, cycling behavior (e.g., use of a helmet, safety gear, alcohol), and circumstances of the crash (e.g., road conditions, speed, cause of the incident, time of day, season). Additional information about patient demographics, treatment, and injury characteristics, such as the Injury Severity Score (ISS) and body region injured, were documented. Results were analyzed using chi-square, Fisher’s exact, or Wilcoxon tests. Simple logistic or linear regression models were used to estimate associations.

Results

Of the 82 patients, 56 (67%) were riding a conventional bike and 27 (33%) were using an e-bike. Most incidents were either single-bicycle crashes (66%) or automobile collisions (26%), with no notable difference in prevalence rates between groups. Although a higher proportion of conventional bikers were male (67% vs. 48%), the difference was not significant. E-bikers were older (median 60 years (IQR 44–70) vs. 45 years (IQR 32–62); p = 0.008), were hospitalized more often (48% vs. 24%, p = 0.025), and had worse ISS (median 3 (IQR 2–4) vs. 1 (IQR 1–3), p < 0.001), respectively. Body regions most affected were the extremities (78%) and external/skin (46%), and these were distributed similarly in both groups. Concomitant injury patterns of the thorax/chest with external/skin were higher among e-bikers (p < 0.001). When we controlled for the difference in the median age of the two groups, only the injury severity score of e-bikers remained significantly worse.

Conclusions

Hospitalization and chest trauma rates were higher among e-bikers. After controlling for the older age of this group, the severity of their injuries remained worse than in conventional cyclists. Initial clinical assessments at trauma units should include an evaluation of the thorax/chest, particularly among elderly e-bikers.

Level of evidence

Level III.
Porous Cu-MOF nanostructures with anticancer properties prepared by a controllable ultrasound-assisted reverse micelle synthesis of Cu-MOF
Authors: Akhavan-Sigari Reza , Zeraati Malihe , Moghaddam-Manesh Mohammadreza , Kazemzadeh Parya , Hosseinzadegan Sara , Chauhan Narendra Pal Singh , Sargazi Ghasem
Published: March 2022

The ultrasonic assisted reverse micelle method (UARM) was used to synthesize Cu-MOF from Cu(NO3)2·3H2O and 2,6-pyridine dicarboxylic acid in a 1:1 molar proportion. It has been characterized using FT-IR, XRD, nitrogen adsorption analysis, SEM and TEM–EDX. The morphology of Cu-MOFs was spherical, with an average particle size distribution of less than 100 nm. Using BET analysis, the surface area of Cu-MOF was found to be 284.94 m2/g. The porous morphology of Cu-MOF was also suggested by SEM and TEM analyses. It has anticancer properties against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Cytotoxicity testing was performed on MCF-7 breast cancer cells using the MTT cell viability assay, and cell proliferation and viability were found to be approximately 24% higher than the control.
Temperature, season, and latitude influence development-related phenotypes of Philippine Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus): Implications for dengue control amidst global warming
Authors: Edillo Frances , Ymbong Rhoniel Ryan , Bolneo Alyssa Angel , Hernandez Ric Jacob , Fuentes Bianca Louise , Cortes Garren , Cabrera Joseph , Lazaro Jose Enrico , Sakuntabhai Anavaj
Published: March 2022

Background

Dengue is endemic in the Philippines.Aedes aegyptiis the primary vector. This study aimed to determine the hatching behavior and viability ofAe. aegyptifirst-generation (F1) eggs when exposed to temperature and photoperiod regimes under laboratory conditions.

Methods

Parental eggs were collected from selected highland and lowland sites in the Philippine big islands (Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao) during the wet (2017–2018) and dry (2018) seasons. F1 egg cohorts were exposed separately in environmental chambers at 18, 25, and 38 °C with respective photoperiods for 6 weeks. Phenotypes (percent pharate larvae [PPL], hatch rates [HRs], and reproductive outputs [ROs]) were determined.

Results

Results of multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) between seasons showed significant main effects of temperature, season, and big island on all phenotypes across all sites. Significant interaction effects between seasons on all phenotypes across sites were shown between or among (1) season and big island, (2) season and temperature, (3) big island and temperature, (4) season, big island, and temperature, (5) big island, altitude, and temperature, and (6) season, big island, altitude, and temperature. Factors associated with the big islands might include their ecology, available breeding sites, and day lengths due to latitudinal differences, although they were not measured in the field. MANOVA results within each season on all phenotypes across sites showed (1) significant main effects of big island and temperature, and (2) significant interaction effects between big island and temperature within the wet season and (3) between temperature and photoperiod within the dry season. PPL were highest at 18 °C and were formed even at 38 °C in both seasons. Pharate larvae might play an adaptive role in global warming, expanded distribution to highlands, and preponderance to transmit human diseases. HRs in both seasons were highest at 25 °C and lowest at 38 °C. ROs were highest at 25 °C in the wet season and at 18 °C in the dry season.

Conclusions

Temperature and latitude of Philippine big islands influenced the development-related phenotypes ofAe. aegyptiin both seasons. The two seasons influenced the phenotypes and their interaction effects with big island and/or temperature and/or altitude. Recommendations include year-round enhanced 4S control strategies for mosquito vectors and water pipeline installation in rural highlands.

Graphical Abstract
Prevalence and predictors of vector-borne pathogens in Dutch roe deer
Authors: Wijburg Sara R. , Fonville Manoj , de Bruin Arnout , van Rijn Piet A. , Montizaan Margriet G. E. , van den Broek Jan , Sprong Hein , Rijks Jolianne M.
Published: March 2022

Background

The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of nine vector-borne pathogens or pathogen genera in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in the Netherlands, and to identify which host variables predict vector-borne pathogen presence in roe deer. The host variables examined were the four host factors ‘age category’, ‘sex’, ‘nutritional condition’ and ‘health status’, as well as ‘roe deer density’.

Methods

From December 2009 to September 2010, blood samples of 461 roe deer were collected and analysed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of genetic material from Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Bartonella spp., Babesia spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.), Borrelia miyamotoi, Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Rickettsia spp., and epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV), and by commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for antibodies against bluetongue virus (BTV). The possible associations of host factors and density with pathogen prevalence and co-infection, and in the case of A. phagocytophilum with bacterial load, were assessed using generalized linear modelling.

Results and conclusion

Analysis revealed the following prevalence in roe deer: A. phagocytophilum 77.9%, Bartonella spp. 77.7%, Babesia spp. 17.4%, Rickettsia spp. 3.3%, B. burgdorferi sensu lato 0.2%. Various co-infections were found, of which A. phagocytophilum and Bartonella spp. (49.7% of infected roe deer) and A. phagocytophilum, Bartonella spp. and Babesia spp. (12.2% of infected roe deer) were the most common. Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia spp., and co-infection prevalence were significantly higher in calves than in adult roe deer, whereas the prevalence of Bartonella spp. was lower in roe deer in good nutritional condition than in deer in poor nutritional condition. Local roe deer density was not associated with pathogen presence. The high prevalence of A. phagocytophilum, Bartonella spp., and Babesia spp. is evidence for the role of roe deer as reservoirs for these pathogens. Additionally, the results suggest a supportive role of roe deer in the life-cycle of Rickettsia spp. in the Netherlands.

Graphical Abstract
When venture capitalists are attracted by the experienced
Authors: Kim Dohyeon , Lee Su Yong
Published: March 2022

This article tries to find when the experience plays a key role in investment decisions by venture capitalists (VCs) investment decisions. First, we analyze the relative importance of the decision-making criteria that VCs have in mind. Then, the relationship between uncertainty and entrepreneurs’ experience is investigated. The conjoint analysis and the multiple regression analysis model are applied to sets of hypothetical scenarios to assess the relative importance of the decision-making criteria of the 263 South Korean VCs. VCs generally value entrepreneurs’ education and industry experience in making the investment decision. However, when uncertainty is very high, the newness of the product is high and the completeness of the product is low, VCs focus on entrepreneurs’ managerial experience of entrepreneurs. These findings indicate that environmental uncertainty changes the relative importance of the VC investment criteria. Our research enhances the understanding of how VCs chose to invest, thus helping start-up companies receive VC funding and, ultimately, fostering the growth of high-risk–high-return companies.
Identification of diagnostic markers and immune cell infiltration characteristics in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis by weighted gene co-expression network analysis
Authors: Xia Mengdi , Zhao Fen , Zhang Yongji , Zheng Zhihuang , Zhou Yun , Liu Tong
Published: March 2022

Background

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a group of life-threatening systemic autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the AAV hub gene and immune cell infiltration, and its value for clinical disease treatment.

Methods

We downloaded the microarray information of 37 AAV patients and 27 controls from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Genes were classified into totally different modules exploitation weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). AAV diagnostic indicators were screened and then assessed immune cell infiltration by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and CIBERSORT. Finally, Connectivity Map analysis was applied to predict possible AAV glomerulus injury improvement therapies.

Results

WGCNA was developed and differentially expressed genes were classified into 6 modules, the black module was most tightly correlated to AAV. Among them, TIMP1 and FCER1G were most closely related to clinical features. Resting mast cells and monocytes emerged as having the foremost distinguished variations in AAV. C3AR1 and FCER1G were involved in AAV development by immune regulation. Connectivity Map analysis indicated the most significant compound was fisetin.

Conclusions

The present study is that the initial to spot immune cell infiltration with microarray data of glomeruli in AAV, which provides novel proof and clues for additional analysis of the molecular mechanisms.
Accurate prediction of metagenome-assembled genome completeness by MAGISTA, a random forest model built on alignment-free intra-bin statistics
Authors: Goussarov Gleb , Claesen Jürgen , Mysara Mohamed , Cleenwerck Ilse , Leys Natalie , Vandamme Peter , Van Houdt Rob
Published: March 2022

Background

Although the total number of microbial taxa on Earth is under debate, it is clear that only a small fraction of these has been cultivated and validly named. Evidently, the inability to culture most bacteria outside of very specific conditions severely limits their characterization and further studies. In the last decade, a major part of the solution to this problem has been the use of metagenome sequencing, whereby the DNA of an entire microbial community is sequenced, followed by the in silico reconstruction of genomes of its novel component species. The large discrepancy between the number of sequenced type strain genomes (around 12,000) and total microbial diversity (106–1012 species) directs these efforts to de novo assembly and binning. Unfortunately, these steps are error-prone and as such, the results have to be intensely scrutinized to avoid publishing incomplete and low-quality genomes.

Results

We developed MAGISTA (metagenome-assembled genome intra-bin statistics assessment), a novel approach to assess metagenome-assembled genome quality that tackles some of the often-neglected drawbacks of current reference gene-based methods. MAGISTA is based on alignment-free distance distributions between contig fragments within metagenomic bins, rather than a set of reference genes. For proper training, a highly complex genomic DNA mock community was needed and constructed by pooling genomic DNA of 227 bacterial strains, specifically selected to obtain a wide variety representing the major phylogenetic lineages of cultivable bacteria.

Conclusions

MAGISTA achieved a 20% reduction in root-mean-square error in comparison to the marker gene approach when tested on publicly available mock metagenomes. Furthermore, our highly complex genomic DNA mock community is a very valuable tool for benchmarking (new) metagenome analysis methods.
First record and description of a new Scabrina species (Gastropoda: Cyclophoridae) from Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Foon Junn Kitt , Marzuki Mohammad Effendi
Published: March 2022

A new species Scabrina belang from the limestone hills of north-western Peninsular Malaysia is described. This operculated land snail of the family Cyclophoridae differs from its nearest congeners S. calyx and S. inglisianus in a combination of characters namely, a notched inner peristome, a wing-like extension at the outer peristome at the parieto-palatal region and a flatter shell. This is the first record of the genus Scabrina in Peninsular Malaysia, extending the known range of the genus 1,000 km southwards.
Successful Eradication of Hepatitis-C Virus with Sofosbuvir based Antiviral treatment results in improvement in quality of life in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Ali Bushra , Raja Ikram Ul Haq , Choudhry Asad , Nawaz Arif Amir
Published: March 2022

Objectives: To document improvement in quality of life in patients with Hepatitis-C related cirrhosis after successful eradication of the virus.

Methods: In this observational cohort study conducted at Fatima Memorial Hospital from September 2015 to July 2017, patients with HCV were assessed for improvement in quality of life by using FACIT-F questionnaire. We compared the Quality of life (QOL) score before the start of treatment with DAAs and after achieving SVR12 in various aspects of quality of life including physical, emotional, functional and social well-being.

Results: A total of 71 patients, 52 (73%) were CTP class A, 18 (25%) in B and one (1.4%) in C. The mean score of QOL before AVT was 23.93±7.04 and after achieving SVR it was 36.83±6.36 (P-value <0.001). In the subcategories, score of functional wellbeing, physical well-being and social wellbeing had significantly improved except emotional wellbeing scores. All scores improved across the spectrum of patients in the CTP class A and B. There was only one patient in the CTP-C class.

Conclusion: Chronic HCV infection complicated by cirrhosis causes a significant decline in quality of life. There was a marked improvement in the functional, social and physical health of the patients after eradication of Hepatitis-C with anti-viral therapy except emotional health of the individuals.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4537

How to cite this:Ali B, Raja IH, Choudhry A, Nawaz AA. Successful Eradication of Hepatitis-C Virus with Sofosbuvir based Antiviral treatment results in improvement in quality of life in cirrhotic patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4537

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical effect of reduning combined with gamma globulin treatment on symptom improvement serum levels of IL-6, 25-(OH)D and LDH in children with severe mycoplasma pneumonia
Authors: Ma Xingna , Gao Wei , An Jinyu
Published: March 2022

Objectives: To investigate the effects of Reduning combined with gamma globulin on symptom improvement and serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), 25-hydroxyvitamin D[25-(OH)D] and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in children with severe mycoplasma pneumonia (MP).

Methods: A total of 123 children with severe MP admitted to the Changzhou Cancer Hospital affiliated to Soochow University from May 2018 to April 2020 were selected as subjects and randomly divided into three groups: control Group-A, control Group-B and the observation group, with 41 cases in each group. Control Group-A was given with Reduning, control Group-B was treated with gamma globulin, while the observation group was treated with Reduning injection combined with gamma globulin. The clinical efficacy, symptom improvement, incidence of adverse reactions, serum levels of IL-6, 25-(OH)D, LDH, Toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (TLR4/MyD88) signaling pathway and T lymphocyte subsets before and after treatment were statistically compared between the three groups.

Results: The total effective rate of treatment in the observation group was higher than that in control Group-A and control Group-B (p<0.05); The time for body temperature, lung rales, and cough to return to normal in the observation group was shorter than that in control Group-A and control Group-B (p<0.05). After treatment, the observation group had lower serum levels of IL-6, LDH, and higher levels of 25-(OH)D compared with control Group-A and control Group-B (p<0.05). Moreover, the observation group had lower serum expressions of TLR4 and MyD88 (p<0.05), higher serum levels of CD4+, CD4+/CD8+, and lower CD8+ compared with control Group-A and control Group-B (p<0.05). No significant difference can be seen in the comparison of the incidence of adverse reactions between the three groups (p>0.05).

Conclusions: Reduning combined with gamma globulin in the treatment of severe MP is worthy of clinical promotion and application. With such a treatment regimen, the immune function of children with severe MP can be significantly enhanced, the inflammatory response can be suppressed, and symptom improvement can be promoted, further improving the treatment outcome.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.5203

How to cite this:Ma X, Gao W, An J. Clinical effect of reduning combined with gamma globulin treatment on symptom improvement serum levels of IL-6, 25-(OH)D and LDH in children with severe mycoplasma pneumonia. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.5203

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Utility of the ISTH bleeding assessment tool (BAT) in diagnosis of Glanzmann Thrombasthenia patients
Authors: Saqlain Nazish , Fateen Tooba , Tufail Hammad , Mazher Naghmana
Published: March 2022

Objectives: To assess the utility of ISTH-BAT (International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis- Bleeding Assessment Tool) in the diagnosis of Glanzmann Thrombasthenia (GT) in comparison to controls.

Methods: It was a case-control study carried out at The Children’s Hospital, Lahore from January 2012 to May 2021. All patients from neonates to 18 years with a final diagnosis of GT were studied retrospectively. The clinical details were collected from hospital records and telephonically on ISTH-BAT questionnaire after taking informed consent. The same proforma was obtained from 75 healthy controls. Data was analyzed on SPSS version 26.

Results: Out of 427 patients with suspected platelet function disorders, 133 were diagnosed as GT. The mean age was 7.29±5 years. Male to female ratio was 1.1:1. Among cases, 76.6% were products of consanguineous marriage. Epistaxis was the commonest symptom with highest score (p value<0.001). Cutaneous and oral cavity bleeds were more severe and frequent in patients than controls (p value < 0.004). The median ISTH-BAT score among patients was nine while in control group was one. Sensitivity was 86.4%, specificity was 77.3%, positive predictive value was 0.87 and negative predictive value was 0.76. Area under the receiver operator curve was 0.78 (95% confidence interval 0.82–0.90, p<0.001*).

Conclusion: ISTH-BAT scores were significantly higher in GT patients than controls. So, we recommend the inclusion of ISTH-BAT in diagnostic evaluation of patients with suspected Glanzmann Thrombasthenia.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.5361

How to cite this:Saqlain N, Fateen T, Tufail H, Mazher N. Utility of the ISTH bleeding assessment tool (BAT) in diagnosis of Glanzmann Thrombasthenia patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.5361

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Modifiable Risk Factors associated with Post-Operative Bleeding and transfusion requirements in Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Khan Bahauddin , Islam Mujahid Ul , Ahmad Imtiaz , Rehman Mujeeb Ur
Published: March 2022

Objectives: In this study we determine the modifiable factors related to bleeding and transfusion in post-cardiac surgery patients who underwent open heart surgery.

Methods: This is a retrospective study that include two hundred patients who had undergone open heart surgery (OHS) at Northwest General Hospital and Research Center from December 2018 to July 2021. Platelet count and hemoglobin level were measured in the pre-operative period.

Results: This study included both male and female patients. Postoperative platelets were counted as follow: 50-100 x109 L in 3.0% cases, 101-150 x109 L seen in 27.5% cases, and >150 x 109 L in 69.5% cases which required transfusion. We have also reported the increased requirement of transfusion of blood and blood products in patients with pre-operative hemoglobin (Hb) < 10 g/dl.

Conclusion: Correction of pre-op Hb, post-op platelet count and total bypass time are the significant and preventable parameters in patients undergoing cardiac surgery if proper pre-op assessment of the patient is performed.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.5685

How to cite this:Khan B, Mujahid Ul Islam, Ahmad I, Mujeeb Ur Rehman. Modifiable Risk Factors associated with Post-Operative Bleeding and transfusion requirements in Cardiac Surgery. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.5685

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Roller Coaster Ride of Teaching Faculty under Pakistan Medical Commission
Authors: Ehsan Dr. Afifa , Raza Dr. Ali
Published: March 2022

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.6021

How to cite this:Ehsan A, Raza A. Roller Coaster Ride of Teaching Faculty under Pakistan Medical Commission. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):780-781. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.6021
Gut microbiota and intestinal barrier-related markers in patients with anorexia nervosa: Systematic review
Authors: Rog Joanna , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Juchnowicz Dariusz , Padała Olga , Łoniewski Igor , Budzyńska Barbara , Karakula-Juchnowicz Hanna
Published: March 2022

Celem przeglądu systematycznego było określenie: (1) różnic pomiędzy pacjentami z AN a osobami zdrowymi (HC) w składzie mikrobioty jelitowej i markerach związanych z barierą jelitową, (2) Związku między mikrośrodowiskiem jelit a zmiennymi związanymi ze stanem zdrowia pacjentów z AN. Dokonano przeglądu piśmiennictwa (bazy danych PubMed / Embase / ClinicalTrials) do 30 września 2020 w poszukiwaniu badań opisujących mikrobiom jelitowy i markery integralności bariery jelitową u pacjentów z AN. Sześć badań dotyczących ekosystemu jelitowego zostało zakwalifikowanych do przeglądu, z czego trzy prace opisywały również markery bariery jelitowej. Spośród pięciu badań analizujących różnorodność mikrobioty, cztery z nich wykazały różnice między pacjentami z AN a osobami zdrowymi (HC). Badania potwierdziły istnienie nieprawidłowych wartości stężeń markerów integralności bariery jelitowej pacjentów z anoreksją. Przeprowadzony przegląd systematyczny potwierdza zmiany w ekosystemie jelitowym pacjentów z zaburzeniami odżywiania, jednak bez uzyskania konsensusu co do charakterystycznego dla AN wzorca mikrobioty. Uszkodzenie integralności bariery jelitowej w tej grupie chorych wymaga potwierdzenia w dalszych badaniach.
‘The disparity is evident’: COVID-19, violence against women and support for Black and minoritised survivors
Authors: Thiara Ravi K. , Roy Sumanta
Published: March 2022

The disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on women and on Black and minoritised groups has highlighted the gendered and intersectional nature of the pandemic where structural inequality has reproduced disproportionately and exacerbated existing gendered and racialised inequalities. The pandemic and subsequent lockdowns led to an increase in domestic violence and abuse; noted to be disproportionately affected at multiple interlocking levels, home and the wider structural context constituted sites of violence for Black and minoritised survivors. Not only were women being subjected to heightened levels of violence and expanded coercive control but they faced greater constraints in seeking help. The decommissioning and closure of Black and minoritised organisations at a disproportionate level under austerity, inequitable funding structures and the simultaneous reinforcement of a hostile immigration environment have closed the door to safety for many survivors. Reporting on research conducted during 2020 with Black and minoritised organisations about the challenges encountered during the pandemic highlights how they rapidly adapted and reshaped survivor-centred support provision, the ways in which survivors experienced and responded to expanded forms of abuse, and the responses they and women received from mainstream service providers and the greater intersectional advocacy this required.
Sustainable prospective of some selected species from Moraceae and Araceae family of Northeast India: A Review
Authors: Das Jinti Moni , Sarma Barsha , Nath Namita , Borthakur Mridul Kr.
Published: March 2022

The north-eastern region of India is a rich hub of floristic diversity. The intricate relationship between forest resources and indigenous people is a key to sustainability and rural livelihood. The objective is to review on some plants that has possible function for sustainable source of food. The regional people have been utilizing various species of the two commonly available angiosperm plant families viz. Araceae (Alocasia macrorrhizos, Colocasia esculenta) and Moraceae (Ficus carica, F. semicordata, F. auriculata) as a source of food, herbal medicine, and fodder plants. A variety of natural compounds found among various members of these two families are alkaloids viz., Alocasin B, ?-monopalmitin in A. macrorrhizos; flavonoids viz., orientin, isovitexin, in C. esculenta; betulinic acid, lupeol in F. auriculata; quercetin, leucine, tryptophan in F. carica; terpenoids like ?-thuzene, ?-pinene in F. semicordata; besides the presence of phenols, tannins, saponins, fats, carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins, minerals like Ca, Mg, K, Mn, Cu. The rich tradition of indigenous herbal healthcare practices for curing various ailments are widespread among the rural communities. The review entails the indigenous practices with pharmacological efficacy, phytochemistry and sustainable prospects of Moraceae and Araceae which are widely used in food, nutraceutical and medicinal aspects. These lesser-known plant species may attribute to ecological restoration, bioremediation of toxic compounds, discovery of novel therapeutics, sources of carbon sink in near future as well.