bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“That is Terrible News!”: Media Framing of Mamba Mentality Within Contemporary U.S. Racial and Gender Politics
Authors: Chen Ryan , Rochon M. A. , Anderson Lauren C.
Published: April 2021

On January 26, 2020, former Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant passed away suddenly in a helicopter crash. Drawing on theoretical frameworks of racial and gender politics in the U.S. context, and media framing, we conducted a textual analysis of mainstream news media’s framing of “Mamba Mentality” in the immediate aftermath of Bryant’s death. Across the 119 articles retrieved for analysis, we found Mamba Mentality consistently framed in four ways: a performance standard, both mental and physical; a symbol for overcoming adversity; a commodity; and a legacy/ethos. While mainstream media was complicit in absolving Bryant of his 2003 sexual assault allegation, the allegation was folded into his complex celebrity identity, which ultimately legitimized his Mamba Mentality persona as strong, tough, and able to overcome any obstacle that stood in the way—regardless of the cost. Our findings implicate how a celebrity athlete’s life is valued by contemporary media, and how media portrayals represent historical underpinnings of identity politics and oppressive practices, in line with structural and systemic violence in American society.
Knowledge Outcome of Essential Care for Every Baby Training in Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region, Ethiopia: A Pre- and Post-Test Study
Authors: Gamtessa Lalisa Chewaka , Kebede Kindie Mitiku , Deyas Yared
Published: April 2021

This study was aimed to evaluate the knowledge outcome of ECEB training given to reduce neonatal mortality in Ethiopia. The study was conducted by using data from training given for 98 health professionals. Data were entered into Epi info7 and analyzed by SPSS version 21. Accordingly, the paired sample T-test, the independent sample t-test, and one way ANOVA were calculated at P-value <.05. Likewise, the mean knowledge score of the trainees increased from 59.10 (SD ± 13.180) before the training to 73.73 (SD ± 14.173) after the training. The increment was statistically significant ( t (97) = 11.684, CI = 12.147-17.118, P < 0.001). The mean knowledge score was significantly varied between female and male trainees at pre-test t (96) = 2.424, P = .017 and post-test t (96) = 2.944, P = .004. Similarly, it was significantly varied between trainees from hospitals and Health centers at post-test t (96) = 2.403, P = .018. To sum up, the overall knowledge outcome of trainees significantly improved after the training. However, regarding knowledge outcome in relation to different variables, there was a significant mean knowledge score difference by sex both at pre- and post-test. Concerning the knowledge outcome in relation to facility type of the trainees, knowledge outcome significantly increased only those who came from hospitals at post-test. Therefore, to further enhance female trainees and those who come from Health Centers, a separate training session with extra support should be arranged by programmers.
Partnership Enhancement Program: Piloting a Communication Training Program for Cystic Fibrosis Care Teams
Authors: George Cynthia , Raymond Katherine F , Collins Lauren , Arefy Zafreen , Kazmerski Traci M
Published: April 2021

Optimal information sharing between people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF), caregivers, and clinicians is key to managing CF. Based on research indicating the CF community’s interest in improved care conversations, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation partnered with the Academy of Communication in Healthcare to customize their relationship-centered communication training program for CF and pilot the Partnership Enhancement Program (PEP). Facilitated by interprofessional certified CF clinicians, PEP consisted of a full-day workshop and follow-up session with CF care teams. Over 98% of survey responses highly rated the applicability of the skills to respond to PwCF, and caregivers needs more effectively.
Context-dependent and -independent selection on synonymous mutations revealed by 1,135 genomes of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Chu Duan , Wei Lai
Published: April 2021

Background

Synonymous mutations do not alter the amino acids and therefore are regarded as neutral for a long time. However, they do change the tRNA adaptation index (tAI) of a particular codon (independent of its context), affecting the tRNA availability during translation. They could also change the isoaccepting relationship with its neighboring synonymous codons in particular context, which again affects the local translation process. Evidence of selection pressure on synonymous mutations has emerged.

Results

The proposed selection patterns on synonymous mutations are never formally and systematically tested in plant species. We fully take advantage of the SNP data from 1,135A. thalianalines, and found that the synonymous mutations that increase tAI or the isoaccepting mutations in isoaccepting codon context tend to have higher derived allele frequencies (DAF) compared to other synonymous mutations of the opposite effects.

Conclusions

Synonymous mutations are not strictly neutral. The synonymous mutations that increase tAI or the isoaccepting mutations in isoaccepting codon context are likely to be positively selected. We propose the concept of context-dependent and -independent selection on synonymous mutations. These concepts broaden our knowledge of the functional consequences of synonymous mutations, and should be appealing to phytologists and evolutionary biologists.
Towards elimination of mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV in Rwanda: a nested case‐control study of risk factors for transmission
Authors: Remera Eric , Mugwaneza Placidie , Chammartin Frédérique , Mulindabigwi Augustin , Musengimana Gentille , Forrest Jamie I. , Mwanyumba Fabian , Kondwani Ng’oma , Condo Jeanine U. , Riedel David J. , Mills Edward J. , Nsanzimana Sabin , Bucher Heiner C.
Published: April 2021

Background

Mother-to-child HIV transmission (MTCT) has substantially declined since the scale-up of prevention programs around the world, including Rwanda. To achieve full elimination of MTCT, it is important to understand the risk factors associated with residual HIV transmission, defined as MTCT at the population-level that still occurs despite universal access to PMTCT.

Methods

We performed a case control study of children born from mothers with HIV with known vital status at 18 months from birth, who were followed in three national cohorts between October and December 2013, 2014, and 2015 in Rwanda. Children with HIV were matched in a ratio of 1:2 with HIV-uninfected children and a conditional logistic regression model was used to investigate risk factors for MTCT.

Results

In total, 84 children with HIV were identified and matched with 164 non-infected children. The median age of mothers from both groups was 29 years (interquartile range (IQR): 24–33). Of these mothers, 126 (51.4 %) initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) before their pregnancy on record. In a multivariable regression analysis, initiation of ART in the third trimester (Adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR]: 9.25; 95 % Confidence Interval [95 % CI]: 2.12–40.38) and during labour or post-partum (aOR: 8.87; 95 % CI: 1.92–40.88), compared to initiation of ART before pregnancy, increased the risk of MTCT. Similarly, offspring of single mothers (aOR: 7.15; 95 % CI: 1.15–44.21), and absence of postpartum neonatal ART prophylaxis (aOR: 7.26; 95 % CI: 1.66–31.59) were factors significantly associated with MTCT.

Conclusions

Late ART initiation for PMTCT and lack of postpartum infant prophylaxis are still the most important risk factors to explain MTCT in the era of universal access. Improved early attendance at antenatal care, early ART initiation, and enhancing the continuum of care especially for single mothers is crucial for MTCT elimination in Rwanda.
Longitudinal association of dietary sources of animal and plant protein throughout childhood with menarche
Authors: Moslehi Nazanin , Asghari Golaleh , Mirmiran Parvin , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: April 2021

Background

Inconsistent findings have been reported for associations between protein intake and age at menarche. We aimed to investigate the association between intake of protein and protein-containing food groups during childhood with menarche among Iranian girls.

Methods

Girls aged 6–18 years who did not experience menarche in the third or fourth examination cycles of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study were selected and were followed to the fifth examination cycle. Daily intakes of protein from different animal/plant sources and ten protein-containing food groups were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire at baseline (the third or fourth examination cycles). Occurrence of menarche and its onset age were asked during each examination cycle. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) for the occurrence of menarche per one standard deviation (SD) of dietary intakes. Logistic regression was also used to estimate the odds of reaching menarche ≤12 years.

Results

During the study, 147(61%) of girls reached menarche, the median age at menarche was 12 years. The adjusted HRs (95% CI) for the occurrence of menarche per one-SD of dietary intakes were 0.68 (0.48, 0.98; p = 0.040) for plant protein and 1.36 (1.01, 1.84; p = 0.042) for animal protein after adjusting for baseline age, BMI Z-score, energy intake, and mother’s early menarche and education. Substituting 10-g animal protein with plant protein was associated with a 16% (95%CI: 5–25%; p = 0.006) lower risk of menarche. Dietary intakes of poultry (adjusted HR: 1.35; 95% CIs: 1.00–1.82; p = 0.049) and low-fat dairy (adjusted HR: 1.20; 95%CIs: 0.99–1.46; p = 0.064) were marginally associated with the increased risk of menarche. However, the odds of early menarche was significant only for plant protein (adjusted odds ratio = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.16–0.96; p = 0.040).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the risk of menarche increases by higher intakes of animal protein and decreases by plant protein. Intakes of poultry and low-fat dairy associate with a higher risk of menarche. The odds of menarche occurrence ≤12 years reduces by higher intakes of plant protein.
Risk factors for Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis and clinical implications
Authors: Kwok Wang Chun , Ho James Chung Man , Tam Terence Chi Chun , Ip Mary Sau Man , Lam David Chi Leung
Published: April 2021

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the commonest bacteria colonizing the airway in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization is associated with poor outcomes in patients with bronchiectasis, including rapid decline in lung function, exacerbation frequency and hospitalization.

Methods

A cross-sectional study in Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong that included 350 Chinese patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis to investigate the risk factors for Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization and clinical implications on disease outcomes.

Discussions

Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization was more commonly found in patients with longer duration of bronchiectasis and those on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) with adjusted ORs of 1.066 (95% CI = 1.036–1.096, p < 0.001) and 2.815 (95% CI = 1.307–6.064, p = 0.008) respectively. Patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization have more extensive lung involvement and higher risks of exacerbation requiring hospitalization with adjusted ORs of 2.445 (95% CI = 1.283–4.657, p = 0.007) and 2.745 (95% CI = 1.012–7.449, p = 0.047) respectively. Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization is more common among patients with longer duration of bronchiectasis and those on PPI. Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization is associated with more extensive lung involvement and higher risks of exacerbation requiring hospitalization.
Tropomyosin 2.1 collaborates with fibronectin to promote TGF-β1-induced contraction of human lung fibroblasts
Authors: Bradbury Peta , Nader Cassandra P. , Cidem Aylin , Rutting Sandra , Sylvester Dianne , He Patrick , Rezcallah Maria C. , O’Neill Geraldine M. , Ammit Alaina J.
Published: April 2021

Many lung diseases are characterized by fibrosis, leading to impaired tissue patency and reduced lung function. Development of fibrotic tissue depends on two-way interaction between the cells and the extra-cellular matrix (ECM). Concentration-dependent increased stiffening of the ECM is sensed by the cells, which in turn increases intracellular contraction and pulling on the matrix causing matrix reorganization and further stiffening. It is generally accepted that the inflammatory cytokine growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is a major driver of lung fibrosis through the stimulation of ECM production. However, TGF-β1 also regulates the expression of members of the tropomyosin (Tm) family of actin associating proteins that mediate ECM reorganization through intracellular-generated forces. Thus, TGF-β1 may mediate the bi-directional signaling between cells and the ECM that promotes tissue fibrosis. Using combinations of cytokine stimulation, mRNA, protein profiling and cellular contractility assays with human lung fibroblasts, we show that concomitant induction of key Tm isoforms and ECM by TGF-β1, significantly accelerates fibrotic phenotypes. Knocking down Tpm2.1 reduces fibroblast-mediated collagen gel contraction. Collectively, the data suggest combined ECM secretion and actin cytoskeleton contractility primes the tissue for enhanced fibrosis. Our study suggests that Tms are at the nexus of inflammation and tissue stiffening. Small molecules targeting specific Tm isoforms have recently been designed; thus targeting Tpm2.1 may represent a novel therapeutic target in lung fibrosis.
Impact of immediate cryopreservation on the establishment of patient derived xenografts from head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Abel Lindsey , Durmaz Arda , Hu Rong , Longhurst Colin , Baschnagel Andrew M. , Wheeler Deric , Scott Jacob G. , Kimple Randall J.
Published: April 2021

Background

Patient-derived xenografts established from human cancers are important tools for investigating novel anti-cancer therapies. Establishing PDXs requires a significant investment and many PDXs may be used infrequently due to their similarity to existing models, their growth rate, or the lack of relevant mutations. We performed this study to determine whether we could efficiently establish PDXs after cryopreservation to allow molecular profiling to be completed prior to implanting the human cancer.

Methods

Fresh tumor was split with half used to establish a PDX immediately and half cryopreserved for later implantation. Resulting tumors were assessed histologically and tumors established from fresh or cryopreserved tissues compared as to the growth rate, extent of tumor necrosis, mitotic activity, keratinization, and grade. All PDXs were subjected to short tandem repeat testing to confirm identity and assess similarity between methods.

Results

Tumor growth was seen in 70% of implanted cases. No growth in either condition was seen in 30% of tumors. One developed a SCC from the immediate implant but a lymphoproliferative mass without SCC from the cryopreserved specimen. No difference in growth rate was seen. No difference between histologic parameters was seen between the two approaches.

Conclusions

Fresh human cancer tissue can be immediately cryopreserved and later thawed and implanted to establish PDXs. This resource saving approach allows for tumor profiling prior to implantation into animals thus maximizing the probability that the tumor will be utilized for future research.
Genotype characterization and delayed loss of ambulation by glucocorticoids in a large cohort of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors:   National DMD Research Network of “One City, One Doctor”, Zhang Shu , Qin Dongdong , Wu Liwen , Li Man , Song Lifang , Wei Cuijie , Lu Chunling , Zhang Xiaoli , Hong Siqi , Ma Mingming , Wu Shiwen
Published: April 2021

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common genetic muscle disease in human. We aimed to describe the genotype distribution in a large cohort of Chinese DMD patients and their delayed loss of ambulation by glucocorticoid (GC) treatments. This is to facilitate protocol designs and outcome measures for the emerging DMD clinical trials.

Results

A total of 1163 patients with DMD were recruited and genotyped. Genotype variations were categorized as large deletions, large duplications, and small mutations. Large deletions were further analyzed for those amenable to exon-skipping therapies. Participants aged 5 years or older were grouped into GC-treated and GC-naïve groups. Clinical progression among different genotypes and their responses to GC treatments were measured by age at loss of ambulation (LOA). Among the mutation genotypes, large deletions, large duplications, and small mutations accounted for 68.79%, 7.14%, and 24.07%, respectively. The mean age at diagnosis was 4.59 years; the median ages at LOA for the GC-naïve, prednisone/prednisolone-treated, and deflazacort-treated groups were 10.23, 12.02, and 13.95 years, respectively. The “deletion amenable to skipping exon 44” subgroup and the nonsense-mutation subgroup had older ages at LOA than the “other deletions” subgroup. Subgroups were further analyzed by both genotypes and GC status. All genotypes showed significant beneficial responses to GC treatment. Deletions amenable to skipping exon 44 showed a lower hazard ratio (0.155). The mean age at death was 18.57 years in this DMD group.

Conclusion

Genotype variation influences clinical progression in certain DMD groups. Beneficial responses to GC treatment were observed among all DMD genotypes. Compared with other genotypes, deletions amenable to skipping exon 44 had a lower hazard ratio, which may indicate a stronger protective effect of GC treatments on this subgroup. These data are valuable for designing future clinical trials, as clinical outcomes may be influenced by the genotypes.
Knowledge of mental health symptoms and help seeking attitude in a population-based sample in Hong Kong
Authors: Fung Ada Wai Tung , Lam Linda Chiu Wa , Chan Sandra Sau Man , Lee Sing
Published: April 2021

Background

Mental health symptoms can be subtle, resulting in delaying treatment. A prompt identification of mental signs and symptoms is important for preventing mental disorders in the public. This study examined whether local public have adequate knowledge to identify mental health symptoms and the need to get timely professional help.

Methods

The population-based telephone surveys were conducted in 2015 and 2018. It involved a random sample of 4033 respondents aged 12–75 years. Mental health knowledge and help seeking attitude were assessed using six vignettes depicting subtle and obvious symptoms of anxiety disorders, mixed anxiety and depressive disorders, and dementia. Logistic regression models were performed to examine association between mental health knowledge and help-seeking attitude.

Results

Individuals with poor knowledge in subtle symptoms were more likely to be males (t =  − 5.0, p < .001), younger (F = 15.0, p < .001), have tertiary education (F = 15.0, p < .001), and employed (t =  − 2.1, p = .037). The knowledge scores of subtle and obvious symptoms were 1.5 and 2.3 respectively. Binary logistic regression found that poor knowledge of subtle symptoms was associated with reluctance to professional help seeking.

Conclusions

Poorly identified subtle mental health symptoms is a major barrier to early professional help in highly educated working males. Future research should explore specific interventions to increase knowledge and professional help seeking in this group.
Efficacy and safety of gout flare prophylaxis and therapy use in people with chronic kidney disease: a Gout, Hyperuricemia and Crystal-Associated Disease Network (G-CAN)-initiated literature review
Authors: Pisaniello Huai Leng , Fisher Mark C. , Farquhar Hamish , Vargas-Santos Ana Beatriz , Hill Catherine L. , Stamp Lisa K. , Gaffo Angelo L.
Published: April 2021

Gout flare prophylaxis and therapy use in people with underlying chronic kidney disease (CKD) is challenging, given limited treatment options and risk of worsening renal function with inappropriate treatment dosing. This literature review aimed to describe the current literature on the efficacy and safety of gout flare prophylaxis and therapy use in people with CKD stages 3–5. A literature search via PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE was performed from 1 January 1959 to 31 January 2018. Inclusion criteria were studies with people with gout and renal impairment (i.e. estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or creatinine clearance (CrCl) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2), and with exposure to colchicine, interleukin-1 inhibitors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and glucocorticoids. All study designs were included. A total of 33 studies with efficacy and/or safety analysis stratified by renal function were reviewed—colchicine (n = 20), anakinra (n = 7), canakinumab (n = 1), NSAIDs (n = 3), and glucocorticoids (n = 2). A total of 58 studies reported these primary outcomes without renal function stratification—colchicine (n = 29), anakinra (n = 10), canakinumab (n = 6), rilonacept (n = 2), NSAIDs (n = 1), and glucocorticoids (n = 10). Most clinical trials excluded study participants with severe CKD (i.e. eGFR or CrCl of < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2). Information on the efficacy and safety outcomes of gout flare prophylaxis and therapy use stratified by renal function is lacking. Clinical trial results cannot be extrapolated for those with advanced CKD. Where possible, current and future gout flare studies should include patients with CKD and with study outcomes reported based on renal function and using standardised gout flare definition.
Presentation of COVID-19 infection with bizarre behavior and encephalopathy: a case report
Authors: Teimouri-Jervekani Zahra , Salmasi Mehrzad
Published: April 2021

Background

Current studies show that patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have neurological symptoms manifesting as acute cerebrovascular diseases, impaired consciousness, and skeletal muscle symptoms. Bizarre behavior is an unusual and unique presenting symptom of COVID-19 infection in our patient.

Case presentation

We report a case of COVID-19 infection in a middle aged Iranian man without underlying disease who presented with bizarre behavior. Results of brain imaging were normal, but COVID-19 pneumonia was detected on chest computed tomography scan. Given the respiratory problem and positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19, treatment with hydroxychloroquine was administered, and after 2 days all of the symptoms resolved.

Conclusions

Encephalopathy and encephalitis may be a possible presentation of COVID-19. Clinicians and health care providers should consider the presence of COVID-19 with bizarre behavior during this COVID-19 pandemic.
Massage therapy in infants and children under 5 years of age: protocol for an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Chen Shu-Cheng , Yu Juan , Yuen Sam Chun-Sum , Lam Jason Chun-Sing , Suen Lorna Kwai-Ping , Yeung Wing-Fai
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Massage is a popularly used complementary and alternative therapy. Previous randomised controlled trials have examined the effects of massage on children, and several systematic reviews have been conducted to synthesise these data. This study aims to assess and summarise the current evidence from published systematic reviews of controlled clinical trials on the practice of paediatric massage, specifically in infants and children aged < 5 years.

Methods

The online databases MEDLINE, Embase, Health Technology Assessment Database, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Allied and Complementary Medicine, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang Data will be searched from the inception onwards for evidence of the treatment effects. We will include systematic reviews of randomised control trials evaluating the effects and safety of massage therapy in infants and children aged < 5 years. The primary outcomes will be any physical or psychological outcome, and adverse effects on children. Secondary outcomes will include any physical or psychological outcome on caregivers. Two reviewers will independently screen the articles for inclusion as per the eligibility criteria. They will extract information from the included studies and assess the methodological quality of the included studies. A table will be used to summarise of information of the included studies, which includes the basic information, method and findings. The methodological quality of the included systematic reviews will be assessed by A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews version 2 (AMSTAR 2). Extracted data from the included studies will be collected and presented using narrative approach. The pooled effect estimates for meta-analysed outcomes will be extracted when possible. If there is a discrepancy in results of two or more reviews on the same topic, then the causes of such discrepancy will be further explored.

Discussion

This overview of systematic reviews will summarise the current evidence on massage, specifically for infants and children aged < 5 years. We will comprehensively present the positive effects and adverse effects of this intervention. Findings from this overview will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Systematic review registration

CRD42020186003.
Glutaminolysis dynamics during astrocytoma progression correlates with tumor aggressiveness
Authors: Moreira Franco Yollanda E. , Alves Maria Jose , Uno Miyuki , Moretti Isabele Fattori , Trombetta-Lima Marina , de Siqueira Santos Suzana , dos Santos Ancely Ferreira , Arini Gabriel Santos , Baptista Mauricio S. , Lerario Antonio Marcondes , Oba-Shinjo Sueli Mieko , Marie Suely Kazue Nagahashi
Published: April 2021

Background

Glioblastoma is the most frequent and high-grade adult malignant central nervous system tumor. The prognosis is still poor despite the use of combined therapy involving maximal surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Metabolic reprogramming currently is recognized as one of the hallmarks of cancer. Glutamine metabolism through glutaminolysis has been associated with tumor cell maintenance and survival, and with antioxidative stress through glutathione (GSH) synthesis.

Methods

In the present study, we analyzed the glutaminolysis-related gene expression levels in our cohort of 153 astrocytomas of different malignant grades and 22 non-neoplastic brain samples through qRT-PCR. Additionally, we investigated the protein expression profile of the key regulator of glutaminolysis (GLS), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLUD1), and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT2) in these samples. We also investigated the glutathione synthase (GS) protein profile and the GSH levels in different grades of astrocytomas. The differential gene expressions were validated in silico on the TCGA database.

Results

We found an increase of glutaminase isoform 2 gene (GLSiso2) expression in all grades of astrocytoma compared to non-neoplastic brain tissue, with a gradual expression increment in parallel to malignancy. Genes coding for GLUD1 and GPT2 expression levels varied according to the grade of malignancy, being downregulated in glioblastoma, and upregulated in lower grades of astrocytoma (AGII–AGIII). Significant low GLUD1 and GPT2 protein levels were observed in the mesenchymal subtype of GBM.

Conclusions

In glioblastoma, particularly in the mesenchymal subtype, the downregulation of both genes and proteins (GLUD1 and GPT2) increases the source of glutamate for GSH synthesis and enhances tumor cell fitness due to increased antioxidative capacity. In contrast, in lower-grade astrocytoma, mainly in those harboring the IDH1 mutation, the gene expression profile indicates that tumor cells might be sensitized to oxidative stress due to reduced GSH synthesis. The measurement of GLUD1 and GPT2 metabolic substrates, ammonia, and alanine, by noninvasive MR spectroscopy, may potentially allow the identification of IDH1mut AGII and AGIII progression towards secondary GBM.
Role of LncRNA score and PVT1 in primary hyperparathyroidism-- a preliminary study
Authors: Zhang Dongxue , Wei Bojun , Li Long , Jiang Tao , Yao Xiaoai , Liu Xin , Sun Yuyan
Published: April 2021

Background

Dysregulated lncRNA score and PVT1 expression may be involved in cancer. However, relationships of lncRNAs with hyperparathyroidism and parathyroid cancer (PC) diagnosis remain mysterious.

Methods

Using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), expression profile of PVT1 was evaluated in 57 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, including 11 with parathyroid cancer (PC) and 46 with parathyroid adenoma (PA).

Results

Higher levels of lncRNA score and PVT1 expression were associated with increased serum calcium level after water ingestion and PC risk ( P < 0.05). Accordingly, lncRNA score and PVT1 expression were increased with varying degrees of hypercalcemia in PC. A higher level of lncRNA score (but not PVT1) was an independent risk factor of PC, with an AUC up to 0.872 (95% CI: 0.756–0.945, P < 0.001). Moreover, lncRNA score was more valuable (with AUC 0.974, sensitivity of 85.71% and specificity of 100%, respectively) than intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) in predicting risk of PC among patients with hypercalcemia (especially based on greater AUC, P = 0.010).

Conclusion

Increased lncRNA score is correlated with an elevated level of serum calcium, which may serve as a potential biomarker for PC diagnosis, especially with hypercalcemia.

Graphical Abstract
3D printing 18F radioactive phantoms for PET imaging
Authors: Gillett Daniel , Marsden Daniel , Ballout Safia , Attili Bala , Bird Nick , Heard Sarah , Gurnell Mark , Mendichovszky Iosif A. , Aloj Luigi
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Phantoms are routinely used in molecular imaging to assess scanner performance. However, traditional phantoms with fillable shapes do not replicate human anatomy. 3D-printed phantoms have overcome this by creating phantoms which replicate human anatomy which can be filled with radioactive material. The problem with these is that small objects suffer to a greater extent than larger objects from the effects of inactive walls, and therefore, phantoms without these are desirable. The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of creating resin-based 3D-printed phantoms using 18F.

Methods

Radioactive resin was created using an emulsion of printer resin and 18F-FDG. A series of test objects were printed including twenty identical cylinders, ten spheres with increasing diameters (2 to 20 mm), and a double helix. Radioactive concentration uniformity, printing accuracy and the amount of leaching were assessed.

Results

Creating radioactive resin was simple and effective. The radioactive concentration was uniform among identical objects; the CoV of the signal was 0.7% using a gamma counter. The printed cylinders and spheres were found to be within 4% of the model dimensions. A double helix was successfully printed as a test for the printer and appeared as expected on the PET scanner. The amount of radioactivity leached into the water was measurable (0.72%) but not visible above background on the imaging.

Conclusions

Creating an 18F radioactive resin emulsion is a simple and effective way to create accurate and complex phantoms without inactive walls. This technique could be used to print clinically realistic phantoms. However, they are single use and cannot be made hollow without an exit hole. Also, there is a small amount of leaching of the radioactivity to take into consideration.
Stem cell nebulization therapy for COVID-19 infection: radiological and clinical outcomes
Authors: Torres Zambrano Gina M. , Maher Ahmed Yasmine , Ventura Carmenate Yendry , Essam Elsadawy Momena
Published: April 2021

Background

SARS-CoV-2 is a highly contagious virus that spread worldwide with a rapid increase in the number of deaths. In March 2020, the WHO declared SARS-CoV-2 a pandemic. The primary diagnostic test is reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, but chest X-ray and computed tomography have become the typical diagnostic tools used to detect abnormal lung changes. Within the framework of the SENTAD COVID Study clinical trial, an observational and analytical study was conducted, where the patients received nebulization therapy with the use of autologous stem cells (group A) compared to the control arm (group B). Both groups received the UAE SARS-CoV-2 standard management. Radiological images of each patient were collected within 24 h of inclusion in the trial and during follow-up. Herein, we describe and evaluate the radiological findings and outcomes.

Results

A total of 139 subjects were included in our analysis, 69 in group A and 70 in group B. The most common finding was ground glass opacifications, followed by patchy consolidations, with 20% normal radiological images scored 3 from admission until discharge (p < 0.0001). Our results suggest a significant improvement in radiological images after treatment secondary to the stem cell effect of reducing inflammation and stimulating the pneumological healing process.

Conclusions

The use of novel therapies, such as stem cells, shows efficacy not only in terms of the control of clinical and paraclinical signs but also in the radiological changes described in the disease.

Trial registration

Study evaluating the safety and efficacy of autologous non-hematopoietic peripheral blood stem cells in COVID-19. Trial registration number: NCT04473170. Date of registration: 16 July 20202. Retrospectively registered.
Feasibility of Cell-Free DNA Collection and Clonal Immunoglobulin Sequencing in South African Patients With HIV-Associated Lymphoma
Authors: Vogt Samantha L. , Patel Moosa , Lakha Atul , Philip Vinitha , Omar Tanvier , Ashmore Philippa , Pather Sugeshnee , Haley Lisa M. , Zheng Gang , Stone Jennifer , Mayne Elizabeth , Stevens Wendy , Wagner-Johnston Nina , Gocke Christopher D. , Martinson Neil A. , Ambinder Richard F. , Xian Rena R.
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE

Diagnosis of AIDS lymphoma in low-resource settings, like South Africa, is often delayed, leaving patients with limited treatment options. In tuberculosis (TB) endemic regions, overlapping signs and symptoms often lead to diagnostic delays. Assessment of plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) by next-generation sequencing (NGS) may expedite the diagnosis of lymphoma but requires high-quality cfDNA.

METHODS

People living with HIV with newly diagnosed aggressive B-cell lymphoma and those with newly diagnosed TB seeking care at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and its surrounding clinics, in Soweto, South Africa, were enrolled in this study. Each participant provided a whole blood specimen collected in cell-stabilizing tubes. Quantity and quality of plasma cfDNA were assessed. NGS of the immunoglobulin heavy chain was performed.

RESULTS

Nine HIV+ patients with untreated lymphoma and eight HIV+ patients with TB, but without lymphoma, were enrolled. All cfDNA quantity and quality metrics were similar between the two groups, except that cfDNA accounted for a larger fraction of recovered plasma DNA in patients with lymphoma. The concentration of cfDNA in plasma also trended higher in patients with lymphoma. NGS of immunoglobulin heavy chain showed robust amplification of DNA, with large amplicons (> 250 bp) being more readily detected in patients with lymphoma. Clonal sequences were detected in five of nine patients with lymphoma, and none of the patients with TB.

CONCLUSION

This proof-of-principle study demonstrates that whole blood collected for cfDNA in a low-resource setting is suitable for sophisticated sequencing analyses, including clonal immunoglobulin NGS. The detection of clonal sequences in more than half of patients with lymphoma shows promise as a diagnostic marker that may be explored in future studies.
Introduction
Authors: Banks Elizabeth , d'Avignon Robyn , Siddiqi Asif
Published: April 2021

This special themed section examines the multilayered engagements between Africa and the Soviet Union as a central, if overlooked, global encounter of the mid-twentieth century. We call this worldview and the entanglements it generated the “African-Soviet Modern,” an asymmetrical combination of aspiration, materiality, and practice that was rooted in diverse African states and in the Soviet Union. As an analytical category, the African-Soviet Modern speaks to the gap between the grand rhetorical and ideological scope of the Cold War moment and the relatively discrete channels in which it materialized, which gave this mode of thinking a particular vitality and instability. African-Soviet entanglements unfolded in an expansive and uneven geography that incorporated diverse regions of Africa, the USSR, and beyond. Avoiding the temporal and spatial silos of either Soviet or African history, the four essays in this section focus on the spaces where African and Soviet students, politicians, and scientists interacted with one another, creating “connected chronologies” and complementary archives of evidence. Weaving together documentary and oral sources, these articles recover a global entanglement that was energized by unbounded political, economic, and technological aspiration, but that produced an uneven material footprint in newly independent African states.
Shaping the World
Authors: Siddiqi Asif
Published: April 2021

This article explores the biography of a network of Soviet telescopic cameras stationed across the African Sahel during the Cold War. Through joint Soviet-African cooperative programs, scientists used these advanced cameras in Egypt, Somalia, Mali, the Sudan, and Chad to photograph satellites flying overhead to gather data to produce a new model of the Earth, one that Soviet scientists hoped would be an alternative to Western models. I argue that these technical artifacts in Africa, connected into a single global network, represented examples of “infrastructural irruptions” of Cold War technopolitics into African geography, wherein the superpowers placed networked technologies inside postcolonial spaces for the collection of data. Although these technologies were nominally Soviet in origin, the story could also be read as one of Africans who invested their geography with agency in the production of scientific knowledge. Like the socialist moment in Africa and indeed the Soviet Union itself, this camera network no longer exists, its data compromised and its material imprint disappeared. But this “failure” should not blind us to the immanent power of possibility embedded in this incomplete project. I argue that this combination of unbounded aspiration and incomplete materiality was a powerful manifestation of the African-Soviet Modern.
The Affective Feminism of Ghazaleh Hedayat
Authors: Torshizi Foad
Published: April 2021

This article examines the works of the Iranian contemporary artist, Ghazaleh Hedayat. It argues that her turn from figural representation to nonfigural abstraction and consequently to what Laura Marks has called “haptic visuality” demonstrates a careful and systematic aesthetic strategy that attempts to confront and at times even exit representation. It shows that Hedayat's works since the early 2010s offer an affective approach to feminism in contemporary Iranian art that doesn't hinge on representational modes of expression, which are often susceptible to assimilation into identitarian narratives and inadvertently complicit in various forms of marginalization (gender, ethnic, etc.). Hedayat's affective feminism not only complicates clichéd interpretations of her work as a non-Western woman, but it also materializes a new form of knowledge more in tune with feminism. Focusing on the female body as a site of pain, friction, tension, love, maternality, and, more significantly, as a site where self and its other—both in terms of gender and ethnicity—encounter each other, Hedayat undermines visibility by way of pushing it across the borders of sight into the realms of visuality, haptic experience, and proprioception.
How Research Affects Policy: Experimental Evidence from 2,150 Brazilian Municipalities
Authors: Hjort Jonas , Moreira Diana , Rao Gautam , Santini Juan Francisco
Published: April 2021

Can research findings change political leaders’ beliefs and policies? We use experiments with 2,150 Brazilian municipalities to measure mayors’ demand for and response to research information. In one experiment, we find that mayors are willing to pay to learn the results of evaluation studies, and update their beliefs when informed of the findings. They value larger-sample studies more, while not distinguishing between studies in rich and poor countries. In a second experiment, we find that informing mayors about research on a simple and effective policy, taxpayer reminder letters, increases the probability the policy is implemented by 10 percentage points. (JEL D72, D78, D83, O17, O18)
Rapid systematic review of systematic reviews: what befriending, social support and low intensity psychosocial interventions, delivered remotely, may reduce social isolation and loneliness among older adults and how?
Authors: Boulton Elisabeth , Kneale Dylan , Stansfield Claire , Heron Paul , Sutcliffe Katy , Hayanga Brenda , Hall Alex , Bower Peter , Casey Dympna , Craig Dawn , Gilbody Simon , Hanratty Barbara , McMillan Dean , Thomas James , Todd Chris
Published: April 2021

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic ‘social distancing’ has highlighted the need to minimise loneliness and isolation among older adults (aged 50+). We wanted to know what remotely delivered befriending, social support and low intensity psychosocial interventions may help to alleviate social isolation and loneliness and how they work.

Methods: We followed a systematic ‘review of reviews’ approach. Searches of 11 databases from the fields of health, social care, psychology and social science were undertaken during April 2020. Reviews meeting our PICOS criteria were included if they focussed on the evaluation of remote interventions to reduce levels of social isolation or loneliness in adults aged 50+ and were critically appraised using AMSTAR2. Narrative synthesis was used at a review and study level to develop a typology of intervention types and their effectiveness. Intervention Component Analysis (ICA) and Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) were used at a study level to explore the characteristics of successful interventions.

Results: We synthesised evidence from five systematic reviews and 18 primary studies. Remote befriending, social support and low intensity psychosocial interventions took the form of: (i) supported video-communication; (ii) online discussion groups and forums; (iii) telephone befriending; (iv) social networking sites; and (v) multi-tool interventions. The majority of studies utilised the first two approaches, and were generally regarded positively by older adults, although with mixed evidence around effectiveness. Focussing on processes and mechanisms, using ICA and QCA, we found that the interventions that were most successful in improving social support: (i) enabled participants to speak freely and to form close relationships; (ii) ensured participants have shared experiences/characteristics; (iii) included some form of pastoral guidance.

Conclusions: The findings highlight a set of intervention processes that should be incorporated into interventions, although they do not lead us to recommend specific modes of support, due to the heterogeneity of interventions.
BoneJ2 - refactoring established research software
Authors: Domander Richard , Felder Alessandro A , Doube Michael
Published: April 2021

Research software is often developed with expedience as a core development objective because experimental results, but not the software, are specified and resourced as a project output. While such code can help find answers to specific research questions, it may lack longevity and flexibility to make it reusable. We reimplemented BoneJ, our software for skeletal biology image analysis, to address design limitations that put it at risk of becoming unusable. We improved the quality of BoneJ code by following contemporary best programming practices. These include separation of concerns, dependency management, thorough testing, continuous integration and deployment, source code management, code reviews, issue and task ticketing, and user and developer documentation. The resulting BoneJ2 represents a generational shift in development technology and integrates with the ImageJ2 plugin ecosystem.
Suitability of the Estonian adaption of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires: Social-Emotional 2nd Ed (ASQ:SE-2) 36 Month Questionnaire to assess social-emotional behaviour in 3-year-old Estonian children
Authors: Kaldoja Mari-Liis , Mäeots Anni , Tolli Merli , Saareoja Helen
Published: April 2021

Sotsiaal-emotsionaalsed oskused on sotsiaalse pädevuse oluline osa. Eestis puuduvad sobilikud mõõtevahendid koolieelikute sotsiaal-emotsionaalse arengu hindamiseks. 2009. aastal kohandati TÜK Lastekliinikus eesti keelde küsimustike "Ages and Stages: Social-Emotional Questionnaires" (ASQ:SE) 2001. aastal ilmunud metoodika. 2015. aastal ilmus ASQ:SE parandatud versioon (ASQ:SE-2), mis nüüdseks samuti eestindatud. Siinse töö eesmärk on tutvustada eestindatud ASQ:SE-2 36 kuu vanuste laste küsimustiku sobivust eesti laste sotsiaal-emotsionaalse arengu hindamiseks (sh täpsustada küsimustiku psühhomeetrilisi näitajaid). Uuringus osales 62 last vanuses 31–43 kuud. Tulemustest selgus, et eestikeelse ASQ:SE-2 36 kuu vanuste laste küsimustiku sisereliaablus on aktsepteeritav (α = 0,719), spetsiifilisus ja sensitiivsus on vastavalt 81,5 ja 66,7 protsenti, võrdlev valiidsus rahuldav (r = –0,629, p < 0,00). Esmased tulemused kinnitasid ASQ:SE-2 36 kuu vanuste laste hindamiseks mõeldud küsimustiku sobivust eesti laste sotsiaalemotsionaalse arengu sõeltestimiseks.

 Summary
The usefulness of process-oriented writing in enhancing writing skills as a component of communicative competence among upper secondary school students
Authors: Hint Helen , Jürine Anni
Published: April 2021

Suhtluspädevuse kui ühe üldpädevuse arendamisega tuleb gümnaasiumi riiklikust õppekavast lähtuvalt mõtestatult tegeleda. Gümnaasiumile mõeldud suhtluspädevuse hindamisvahendi ega ka süstemaatilise arendustegevuse väljatöötamiseks pole aga Eestis seni uuringuid tehtud. Siinses uurimuses keskendume suhtluspädevuse kontekstis kitsamalt gümnasistide kirjaliku väljendusoskusega seotud pädevuse, st hoiakute ja praktikate mõõtmisele. Uurimuse esimene eesmärk on tutvustada uudset hindamisvahendit ning selle põhjal selgitada, millised on Eesti gümnasistide kirjaliku väljendusoskusega seotud praktikad ja hoiakud. Uurimuse teine eesmärk on analüüsida kolmeaastase pikiuuringu käigus ühes Eesti koolis tehtud protsessikeskse kirjutamise sekkumise efektiivsust. Võrdleme katsekooli ja kontrollkoolide õpilaste kirjutamisega seotud praktikaid ja hoiakuid ning nende muutumist läbi kolme kooliaasta. Uurimuse käigus selgus, et  protsessikeskse kirjutamise pidev teadlik rakendamine aitab parandada õpilaste kirjutamisega seotud hoiakud ja võtta omaks efektiivsemaid praktikaid.

 Summary