bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide association study of serum tumor markers in Southern Chinese Han population
Authors: Li Xiukuan , Bai Fenghua , Wei Xingwei , Jin Tianbo , Li Chen , Zhang Yutian , Lin Mei , Zhou Xiaoli , Xie Yufei , He Chanyi , Lin Qi , He Ping , Chu Shuyuan , Ding Yipeng
Published: February 2022

Background

Serum indicators AFP, CA50, CA125, CA153, CA19-9, CEA, f-PSA, SCC-Ag have been confirmed as tumor markers (TMs). We conducted a genome-wide association study on 8 tumor markers of our 427 Han population in southern China, in order to identify genetic loci that are significantly associated with the level of 8 tumor markers.

Methods

We use Gene Titan multi-channel instrument and Axiom Analysis Suite 6.0 software for genotyping. We used IMPUTE2 software for imputation, and 1000 Genomes Project (Phase 3) was used as haplotype reference. After necessary quality control and statistical analysis, genetic loci genome-wide associated with TMs (p < 5E-8) will be identified. Finally, we selected Top SNPs (p < 5E-7) from the GWAS results for replication test. We used SPSS software to draw the distribution box plots of serum TMs under different genotypes of significant loci.

Results

The results showed that there were only MUC1 (mucin 1)-rs4072037 significantly genome-wide associated with CA153 (p = 1.28E-18). However, we found that a total of 30 genetic loci have a suggestively significant genome-wide association with the level of 8 serum tumor markers (p < 5E-6). Then 3 Top SNPs (p < 5E-7) were selected for replication verification. The results showed that MUC1-rs4072037 was still significantly associated with CA153 in another population (p = 3.73E-08). Comparing with the TT genotype of rs4072037, the CA153 level was higher under CC or CT genotype of rs4072037.

Conclusion

MUC1-rs4072037 is significantly genome-wide associated with CA153 level. There are 30 genetic loci suggestively genome-wide associated with level of tumor markers among the Han population from Southern China.
Cannabidiol and refractory epilepsy: parental and caregiver perspectives of participation in a compassionate access scheme
Authors: Harte S. , Singh Y. , Malone S. , Heussler H. , Wallace G.
Published: February 2022

Background

The Compassionate Access Scheme (CAS) being delivered through the Queensland Children’s Hospital is designed to allow access to an investigational purified Cannabidiol oral solution to paediatric patients with severe refractory epilepsy. The objectives of this study were to conduct semi-structured interviews to:

1. Understand families’ expectations and attitudes about the use of an investigational cannabinoid product for their child’s seizures;

2. Understand families’ perceptions of Cannabidiol’s efficacy for their child’s seizures; and other aspects of their child’s behaviour, quality of life and/or cognition.

Methods

Children aged 2-18 years had been enrolled in, or were enrolled in a compassionate access scheme for Cannabidiol at the time of the study. Semi-structured interviews (n = 19) with parents or caregivers (n = 23) of children diagnosed with refractory epilepsy were voice-recorded, transcribed and analysed to generate common themes.

Results

Key themes emerged relating to seizure activity, family and school engagement, drug safety and legal access, efficacy, clinical support, social acceptance of the medication and program delivery. The use of Cannabidiol was perceived to have benefits in relation to reducing the severity and frequency of seizure activity for almost a third of patients experiencing refractory epilepsy. Participants described other benefits including improved social engagement, wakefulness and a reduction of side effects related to a reduction of conventional medication dosage.

Conclusion

This study provided unique perspectives of families’ experiences managing untreatable epilepsy, their experiences with conventional and experimental pharmacological treatments and health services. Whilst families’ perceptions showed the use of Cannabidiol did not provide a therapeutic reduction in the seizure activity for all patients diagnosed with refractory epilepsy, it’s use as an additional pharmacological agent was perceived to provide other benefits by some patient families.
Evaluation and optimisation of a footwear assessment tool for use within a clinical environment
Authors: Ellis Stephen , Branthwaite Helen , Chockalingam Nachiappan
Published: February 2022

Footwear has been documented as a significant factor in the aetiology of foot pain in the general population. Assessing footwear in a clinical setting continues to be practitioner specific and there is limited guidance to direct advice. Health professionals must have access to clinically appropriate and reliable footwear assessment tools to educate patients on healthier footwear choices. The primary aim of this study was to critique what elements should be in a footwear assessment tool with a secondary aim of testing the agreed tool for validity.

A combined Nominal Group Technique and then a Delphi technique from purposively sampled experts of foot health professions were employed to critique elements of footwear assessment. The agreed tool was then tested by practising podiatrists on 5 different shoes to assess the validity and reliability of the measures.

Twelve test evaluation criteria were identified receiving significant ratings to form the final footwear assessment tool consisting of five footwear themes. Application of the tool in a clinical setting validated the themes of footwear characteristics, footwear structure, motion control and wear patterns. However, the assessment of footwear fit was not reliable.

The footwear tool was refined based on the collective consensus achieved from the rounds creating a more clinically appropriate tool. The validity of this tool was assessed as high in some of the themes but for those that were lower, a training need was identified.
Effectiveness of wearable devices as a support strategy for maintaining physical activity after a structured exercise intervention for employees with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bayerle Pauline , Kerling Arno , Kück Momme , Rolff Simone , Boeck Hedwig Theda , Sundermeier Thorben , Ensslen Ralf , Tegtbur Uwe , Lauenstein Dirk , Böthig Dietmar , Bara Christoph , Hanke Alexander , Terkamp Christoph , Haverich Axel , Stiesch Meike , de Zwaan Martina , Haufe Sven , Nachbar Lars
Published: February 2022

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular events and high socioeconomic costs. Despite lifestyle interventions focusing on exercise are effective strategies to improve parameters of the above aspects, many programs fail to show sustained effects in the long-term.

Methods

At visit 2 (V2) 129 company employees with diagnosed MetS, who previously participated in a 6-month telemonitoring-supported exercise intervention, were randomized into three subgroups for a 6-month maintenance treatment phase. A wearable activity device was provided to subgroup A and B to assess and to track physical activity. Further subgroup A attended personal consultations with individual instructions for exercise activities. Subgroup C received neither technical nor personal support. 6 months later at visit (V3), changes in exercise capacity, MetS severity, work ability, health-related quality of life and anxiety and depression were compared between the subgroups with an analysis of variance with repeated measurements.

Results

The total physical activity (in MET*h/week) declined between visit 2 and visit 3 (subgroup A: V2: 48.0 ± 33.6, V3: 37.1 ± 23.0; subgroup B: V2: 52.6 ± 35.7, V3: 43.8 ± 40.7, subgroup C: V2: 51.5 ± 29.7, V3: 36.9 ± 22.8, for all p = 0.00) with no between-subgroup differences over time (p = 0.68). In all three subgroups the initial improvements in relative exercise capacity and MetS severity were maintained. Work ability declined significantly in subgroup C (V2: 40.3 ± 5.0, V3: 39.1 ± 5.7; p < 0.05), but remained stable in the other subgroups with no between-subgroup differences over time (p = 0.38). Health-related quality of life and anxiety and depression severity also showed no significant differences over time.

Conclusions

Despite the maintenance of physical activity could not be achieved, most of the health related outcomes remained stable and above baseline value, with no difference regarding the support strategy during the maintenance treatment phase.

Trial registrationThe study was completed as a cooperation project between the Volkswagen AG and the Hannover Medical School (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02029131).
Spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome in adrenal adenocarcinoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Shafie Mahan , Teymouri Alireza , Parsa Samaneh , Sadeghian Ali , Zarei Jalalabadi Narjes
Published: February 2022

Background

Tumor lysis syndrome is an oncologic emergency that classically occurs following cancer therapy, although spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome can also occur in malignancies, albeit rarely. Spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome has previously been reported in some hematologic malignancies, but it rarely happens in solid tumors and seems to be associated with a higher mortality rate. This is the first case of adrenal adenocarcinoma that developed spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome.

Case presentation

We present a rare case of spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome occurring in a patient previously diagnosed with adrenal adenocarcinoma. The patient was a 64-year-old Persian man with abdominal pain, hypersomnia, and fatigue who was previously diagnosed with right adrenocortical carcinoma and had undergone right adrenalectomy with regional lymph nodes resection 5 months previously. On physical examination, the patient had abdominal distension and mild tenderness at the right upper quadrant. Pitting edema was detected bilaterally in the lower extremities. Initial imaging revealed multiple and large lesions suggestive of liver metastases. The laboratory data showed hyperkalemia, hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia, and elevated serum creatinine level indicative of spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome in the patient. Despite immediate and intensive care with antibiotics, hydration, treatment with a hypouricemic agent, and renal replacement therapy, the patient ultimately died from multiorgan failure.

Conclusions

Tumor lysis syndrome in solid tumors has high mortality. Patients susceptible to spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome must receive aggressive treatment immediately, which is crucial for preventing morbidity and mortality. Spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome may be underdiagnosed, and a high degree of clinical suspicion is needed to make the diagnosis and proceed with required interventions. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of this rare phenomenon.
Anti-acne effects of Castanea crenata bur extract and identification of active compound
Authors: You Jiyoung , Ji Hyanggi , Roh Kyung-Baeg , Cho Eunae , Chajra Hanane , Frechet Mathilde , Park Deokhoon , Jung Eunsun
Published: February 2022

Acne vulgaris is a common disease of the pilosebaceous unit. Hyperseborrhea, a follicular colonization by Cutibacterium acnes and a complex inflammatory state are pathogenic factors of acne vulgaris. In the present study we investigated the anti-acne efficacy of Castanea crenata bur extract (CBE) in vitro and searched active compound for mitigating hyperseborrhea. In sebocytes, CBE inhibited the sebum synthesis through downregulation of sterol response element-binding protein-1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ expression. CBE also inhibited the 5-alpha reductase activity which is associated with androgen-induced sebum production. Moreover, CBE showed anti-inflammatory effect in C. acnes and free fatty acid-induced inflammatory condition through suppressing Toll-like receptor 2 activity. Anti-inflammatory effect was also observed in keratinocytes via inhibition of NF-κB translocation into nuclei. Finally, we identified the ellagic acid as an active compound for inhibiting sebum production in CBE. These findings suggest that CBE have potential to be a multi-target agent for acne vulgaris and a good source of ellagic acid as an anti-sebum compound.
Population pharmacokinetic analysis and dosage recommendations for digoxin in Japanese patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure using real-world data
Authors: Hirai Toshinori , Kasai Hidefumi , Naganuma Miyoko , Hagiwara Nobuhisa , Shiga Tsuyoshi
Published: February 2022

Background

Digoxin is an important treatment option for reducing the ventricular rate in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF). Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic window and large interindividual variability. A low target blood concentration, especially ≤0.9 ng/mL, is recommended for patients with HF who are taking digoxin. This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic model and to identify clinical factors that affect digoxin exposure and an optimal digoxin dosing regimen in Japanese patients with AF and HF.

Methods

A population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed by using a nonlinear mixed effects model based on 3465 concentration points from 391 patients (>18 years) who were receiving oral digoxin. Using trough serum digoxin concentrations and clinical data, a population pharmacokinetic model was developed for determining covariates of clearance. A 1-compartment model was used to examine the interindividual variability of the oral clearance (CL/F) of digoxin. An appropriate dosage of digoxin was identified using Monte Carlo simulation.

Results

The final model demonstrated that creatinine clearance (CLCR) and the use of amiodarone were factors that contributed to the CL/F of digoxin. Monte Carlo simulation results showed that with a daily maintenance dose of 0.25 mg, the intoxication risk window of a trough serum concentration of ≥0.9 ng/mL could be reached in more than half of patients regardless of renal function category or concurrent use of amiodarone. The appropriate maintenance dosage was 0.125 mg daily for most Japanese patients with AF and HF. However, with a daily dose of 0.125 mg, a trough serum concentration of ≥0.9 ng/mL could be reached in more than half of patients with renal impairments (CLCR 30 mL/min) or concurrent use of amiodarone. A daily maintenance dose of 0.0625 mg was acceptable for these patients.

Conclusions

CLCR and the use of amiodaron were found to contribute to digoxin clearance using a population pharmacokinetic methodology. For Japanese patients with AF and HF, 0.125 mg is an appropriate daily digoxin maintenance dose, but a dose reduction is required for patients with CLCR <30 mL/min or concurrent amiodarone use.
Management effectiveness evaluation of world cultural landscape heritage: a case from China
Authors: Zhou Jiami , Wang Wenhui , Zhou Jianqin , Zhang Zhuting , Lu Zixian , Gong Zhiqiang
Published: February 2022

World cultural landscape heritage (WCLH), recognized as a combination of cultural relics and natural landscapes with outstanding significance and universal value, is unique in terms of its differentiation from the deliberate human creativity of general cultural heritage and the “deartificialization” of natural heritage. To date, the management of WCLH has become increasingly standardized. However, with the prevalence of heritage resource development activities such as heritage tourism, the phenomenon of “urbanization”, “commercialization”, “artificialization” and other issues have gradually emerged in WCLH sites. Thus, the management issues of WCLH have become increasingly serious, leading to intense concerns about the unsustainable development of WCLH. Drawing inspirations from management effectiveness (ME) evaluation research of protected areas and acknowledging the uniqueness of WCLH, this study constructs a WCLH ME evaluation system consisting of four general criteria (management foundation, management system, management measures and management performance), 16 factors and 34 indicators. The evaluation system is applied and verified through an empirical study of five existing WCLH sites in China. The empirical results show that the ME of Chinese WCLH is at a “good” level. Specifically, the management of Chinese WCLH is overall impressive in indicators of management planning, heritage protection performance and economic performance but shows deficiency in indicators of protection fees, management infrastructure, management assessment, management institution, social performance, etc. Finally, this study discusses the management issues of respective heritage sites to provide suggestions and inspirations for the development, protection and management of the sites and other cultural landscapes in China and even the world.
Seed viability testing for research and conservation of epiphytic and terrestrial orchids
Authors: Pradhan Namrata , Fan Xuli , Martini Francesco , Chen Huayang , Liu Hong , Gao Jiangyun , Goodale Uromi Manage
Published: February 2022

Background

Seed viability testing is essential in plant conservation and research. Seed viability testing determines the success ofex-situconservation efforts, such as seed banking but commonly testing protocols of orchids lack consistency and accuracy, therefore, there is a need to select an appropriate and reliable viability test, especially when conducting comparative studies. Here, we evaluated the suitability of three seed viability tests, Evans blue test (EB), Fluorescein diacetate test (FDA) and Tetrazolium test (TTC), with and without sterilization, on seeds of 20 orchid species, which included five epiphytes and fifteen terrestrials, using both fresh seeds and seeds stored at − 18 ºC for 6 to 8 years.

Results

We found that sterilization and lifeform of seeds affected seed viability across all tests but the storage time was not an influential factor. Sterilization negatively affected seed viability under EB and FDA test conditions but increased the detection of viable seeds in the TTC test in both epiphytic and terrestrial species. The EB test, when administered without sterilization provided the highest viability results. Being non-enzymatic unlike TTC and FDA tests, as expected, the EB test was the most reliable with similar results between sterilized and not sterilized seeds for most epiphytic and terrestrial species as well as when compared between groups.

Conclusions

The lifeform of the species and seed sterilization prior to testing are important influential factors in orchid seed viability testing. Since EB test was found to be reliable we recommend the EB test for seed viability assessment in orchids rather than the less reliable but commonly used TTC test, or the FDA test, which require more expensive and sophisticated instrumentation. Since storage time was not an influential factor in orchid seed viability testing, the recommendations of this study can be used for both fresh as well as long-term stored orchid seeds. This is helpful for research and especially for conservation measures such as seed banking. However, due to the species specificity of the bio-physiology of orchids, we call for comprehensive viability test assessment in the hyper diverse orchid family to be extended to a greater number of species to facilitate efficient conservation and research.
Long term results of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration switched from other anti-VEGF agents to intravitreal Aflibercept
Authors: Adrean Sean D. , Knight Darren , Chaili Siyang , Ramkumar Hema L. , Pirouz Ash , Grant Scott
Published: February 2022

Background

This study explores the long term anatomic and functional results of patients who were switched to intravitreal aflibercept injections (IAI) after being initially managed with other anti-VEGF agents for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).

Methods

Patients with nAMD were included if they started with another anti-VEGF agent and were switched to IAI. Subjects had at least 3 years of consistent therapy with IAI and at least 1 injection quarterly.

Results

Eighty-eight patients had at least 3 years of treatment while 58 of those patients, had at least 4 years of IAI. Average treatment time with other anti-VEGF agents was 32 months prior to switching. Baseline best corrected vision (VA) was 59.4 letters (20/70 + 2). At time of switch, VA increased significantly to 66.7 letters (20/50 + 2). At 3 months after switch, VA increased significantly to 69.0 (20/40−) letters. After 3 years of consistent IAI, vision was 67.5 letters (20/40−2), and for those patients that completed 4 years of therapy, the average VA was 66.0 letters (20/50 + 2), with a gain of 6.6 letters over baseline vision. 32.1% of patients gained 3 or more lines of vision. Initial central macular thickness (CMT) was 369 µm, which improved to 347 µm at time of switch, and further improved at 3 months to 301 µm and was maintained over time.

Conclusion

Patients switched to IAI can maintain vision over the long term. Patients treated on average for 5.7 years, had a visual gain of 8.1 letters after 3 years and 6.6 letters after 4 years of IAI therapy. CMT significantly improved following the switch and was maintained.
Teachers’ digital competencies in higher education: a systematic literature review
Authors: Basilotta-Gómez-Pablos Verónica , Matarranz María , Casado-Aranda Luis-Alberto , Otto Ana
Published: February 2022

Digital competence has gained a strong prominence in the educational context, being one of the key competencies that teachers must master in today's society. Although most models and frameworks focus on the pre-university level, there is a growing interest in knowing the state of digital competencies of university teachers, that is, the set of knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for a teacher to make effective use of technologies. The aim of this research is to present a systematic review of the literature in the Web of Science and Scopus, to identify, analyze and classify the published articles between 2000 and 2021 on digital competences, and thus find and improve the research being done on digital skills and future avenues of teachers in the university context. The SciMAT software is used in the analysis. The initial search reveals more than 343 articles in English, of which 152 are duplicates and 135 are not related to the topic of study. After this filtering, 56 articles are obtained and analyzed in depth. The results reveal a predominance of research that focuses on analyzing teachers' self-assessment and reflection of their digital competencies. Teachers recognize that they have a low or medium–low digital competence, as well as the absence of certain competencies, especially those related to the evaluation of educational practice. Despite the multiple studies that address this issue, it is necessary to continue improving research in this area, deepening the assessment of teachers' digital competencies and design, on this basis, more practical and personalized training programs that respond to the needs of teachers in the digital era.
The impact of imaging time and contrast agent dose on screening for osteoporosis with contrast-enhanced CT
Authors: Woisetschläger Mischa , Klintström Eva , Spångeus Anna
Published: February 2022

Background

Screening for osteoporosis with contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) is promising for identifying high-risk osteoporotic patients. Our aims were (1) to investigate the estimated volume bone mineral density (vBMD) change over time after contrast injection (CT perfusion imaging, CTPI); and (2) to examine the influence of contrast dose on vBMD.

Methods

Fifteen patients, aged 71 ± 9 years (mean ± standard deviation, range 55–86) underwent a CTPI examination (28 scans within 63 s) of the upper body followed (after a waiting time of 10 min) by a full 4-phase CT examination (4 scans within 4 min). The contrast dose for CTPI was 0.38–0.83 mL/kg, and for 4-phase CT was 0.87–1.29 mL/kg. Vertebrae L1–L3 were analysed totalling 43 vertebrae, using Mindways qCT Pro.

Results

After contrast injection, vBMD showed a near-horizontal line until 17.5 s (non-contrast phase), followed by a steep increase 17.5–41.5 s after contrast injection, i.e., in the arterial phase, which plateaued 41.5 s after, i.e., in the early venous phase. A higher contrast dose per kg yielded significantly higher vBMD increase in both the arterial and venous phase (p < 0.003).

Conclusions

Both time from contrast administration and contrast dose per kg affected vBMD results. In arterial phase, the steepness of the curve makes vBMD estimation unsure. However, as values plateaued in the venous phase it might be possible to predict the correct vBMD values. Furthermore, contrast dose is a factor that needs to be adjusted for when using such a formula.
Prostatic adenocarcinoma with a peculiar morphology – a rare case of pseudohyperplastic variant with inverted polarity
Authors: Athanazio Daniel Abensur , de Souza Maiara Ferreira , Pompeu do Amaral Maria Estela
Published: February 2022

Background

The inverted (hobnail) variant of high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) has been reported in two previous series and one case of inverted polarity in invasive adenocarcinoma has been reported. We reported an additional case of invasive carcinoma with this peculiar morphology.

Case presentation

We reported an additional case of invasive carcinoma with this peculiar morphology. A prostatectomy specimen of a 64-year-old patient showed a GG2 adenocarcinoma with extensive intraprostatic perineural infiltration and extraprostatic extension. Half of the entire tumor showed a distinctive inverted morphology.

Conclusion

Although pseudohyperplastic adenocarcinoma is believed to be a low-grade tumor to be graded as Gleason pattern 3, awareness of this morphology is important to collect more information on its biologic behavior and clinical implication.
Biocatalytic degradation of selected tobacco chemicals from mainstream cigarette smoke using Croton megalocarpus seed husk biochar
Authors: Maiyo Alfayo K. , Kibet Joshua K. , Kengara Fredrick O.
Published: February 2022

Background

Mainstream cigarette smoke contains a complex array of toxic chemicals which can cause irreparable harm to the lungs and most organs in the biological landscape. Attempts to reduce harmful by-products in mainstream cigarette smoke have received little attention although various researchers have proposed the use of catalysts, zeolites and filter modifications. In this study, the bio-degradation of selected tobacco chemicals in a commercial cigarette (MM-R) and a local cigarette (RR-M) is investigated.

Methodology

Croton megalocarpus (C. megalocarpus) seed husk was ground into powder before pyrolysis at 550 °C to form biochar. The cigarette filter was treated with C. megalocarpus seed husk biochar as an adsorbent in order to degrade tobacco chemicals such as benzene and phenol. Specially designed smoking apparatus consistent with standard procedures for cigarette smoking was used to simulate cigarette smoking. Model tobacco chemicals—benzene and phenol—were characterized using low-resolution electron impact mass spectra on a liquid chromatograph hyphenated to a mass spectrometer. The overall concentration of tobacco chemicals with puff time was screened using a UV–visible spectrometer.

Results

The rate constants for the removal of benzene from treated MM-R and RR-M cigarettes were $$0.123\,{\mathrm{s}}^{-1}$$

0.123

s

-
1

and $$0.0759\,{\mathrm{s}}^{-1}$$

0.0759

s

-
1

, respectively, while the rate constants for the removal of phenol from the model cigarettes were $$0.125\,{\mathrm{s}}^{-1}$$

0.125

s

-
1

and $$0.163\,{\mathrm{s}}^{-1}$$

0.163

s

-
1

, respectively. For MM-R and RR-M cigarettes, the per cent reduction for benzene was 14.79 and 19.88 while that of phenol was 10.62 and 25.80, respectively. The reduction of benzene at $$15\,\mathrm{s}$$

15

s

puff time for MM-R cigarette was $$55.91{\%}$$

55.91
%

while the reduction of phenol at the same puff time is $$37.25{\%}$$

37.25
%

. Also, the reduction in the concentration of benzene and phenol for RR-M model cigarettes was $$22.89{\%}$$

22.89
%

and $$66.19{\%}$$

66.19
%

, respectively, at the same puff time. The UV–Vis data show overall reduction in tobacco chemicals with increase in residence time.

Conclusion

The results reported in this study showed that C. megalocarpus seed husk biochar is a promising biocatalyst that can be incorporated into the cigarette filter in order to degrade tobacco chemicals in mainstream cigarette smoke. This is a very important finding towards harm reduction and tobacco reform policy.
Different requirement of immunity pathway components by oomycete effectors-induced cell death
Authors: Dong Xiaohua , Ai Gan , Xia Chuyan , Pan Weiye , Yin Zhiyuan , Dou Daolong
Published: February 2022

Plant pathogenic oomycete species pose a worldwide threat to crop production and ecosystems. During infection, oomycete pathogens secrete a series of effectors to manipulate plant immunity. Many of these effectors, which are indicated as avirluence gene candidates, will use components of immunity pathway to induce cell death in plants. This response given by plants is known as effector-triggered immunity (ETI). The identification of avirulence genes from pathogenic oomycete species opens a way to investigating their virulence function and uncovering related R gene repertoires in resistant plants. In this study, we screened eight cell death-inducing effectors from oomycete species in N. benthamiana and tested the requirements of ETI signaling components to induce cell death. SGT1 was required for PsAvh163- and PcRXLR25-mediated cell death, while silencing NbHSP90 abolished PcRXLR25-, PsAvh163-, PsAvh241- and PsCRN63-triggered cell death. The cell death induced by the tested effectors does not depend on EDS1, NDR1, NRG1 and ADR1. PcRXLR25- and PsAvh163-induced cell death was found to require NRC2/3/4, indicating that these two effectors are avirulence protein candidates. Finally, we found that auto-activated NRC2/3/4 also required SGT1 and HSP90 to induce hypersensitive response.
Morphological and molecular identification of Sarcocystis sp. from the little grebe, Tachybaptus ruficollis (Aves: Podicipediformes), for the first time in Egypt
Authors: El-Dakhly Khaled Mohamed , Arafa Waleed M. , Hussein Nermean M.
Published: February 2022

Background

In Egypt, studies of sarcocystosis in migratory and wading birds specially Podicipediformes are scarce. Therefore, the occurrence of Sarcocystis spp. in the little grebe, Tachybaptus ruficollis (Podicipediformes: Podicipdidae) was investigated in Qena province, Upper Egypt. During the period from September 2017 to March 2018, muscle specimens of esophagus from 25 little grebes were examined for the occurrence of Sarcocystis spp. using light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and molecular tools including conventional PCR and phylogenetic analysis with both 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genetic loci.

Results

Sarcocystis spp. were identified in 84.0% (21/25) of the T. ruficollis esophageal muscle samples by morphological analysis; each was long, ribbonlike and extended along the muscle fibers. TEM revealed a characteristic thin and wavy cyst wall and an undulating vacuolar membrane with villar protrusions of slightly variant sulci and gyri, as well as several septated compartments filled with bradyzoites. The applied 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA were not enough variable for the identification of Sarcocystis species.

Conclusion

This study is the first to report the occurrence of Sarcocystis sp. in little grebes in Egypt. Further studies are required to identify Sarcocystis spp. in various wild birds by ITS1 region in Egypt.

Graphical abstract
Resistance training is an effective exercise therapy in cardiac rehabilitation program for patients with coronary artery disease: a systematic review
Authors: El-Sobkey Salwa B.
Published: February 2022

Background

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation program is a comprehensive intervention for the rehabilitation of coronary artery disease patients. Exercise therapy is a valuable, effective, and integral intervention of cardiac rehabilitation. Aerobic training is the gold standard exercise therapy in cardiac rehabilitation programs. In addition, combined training with added resistant training is also used. This systematic review aimed to provide the physical therapy clinicians with a consensus regarding the effect of resistant training by answering the question of what is the cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular effect (s) of resistant training in the cardiac rehabilitation program for patients with coronary artery disease?

Main body

The Physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) was used as a search engine to select articles through study eligibility criteria. Adult or adult and old stable coronary artery disease patients engaged in a site-based (Phase II) exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation program that includes aerobic and resistant training. Selected articles applied cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular outcome measures to measure the effectiveness of resistant training. The author reviewed the selected articles and applied quantitative non-statistical analysis and appraisal for these articles. The systematic selection process resulted in 10 studies with a total participants number of 3877. Analyzing the articles revealed that adding resistant training to aerobic training resulted in a favorable improvement in outcome measures for coronary artery disease patients. Resistant training produced improvement in the exercise capacity (VO2 peak), blood pressure, skeletal muscle strength, endurance, body composition, sleep quality, depression, and health-related quality of life.

Short conclusions

The addition of resistant training to aerobic training in cardiac rehabilitation induces more positive cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular effects for stable coronary artery disease patients.
A novel evaluation technique for measuring the distance between the anastomosis and intersphincteric groove via three-dimensional endoanal ultrasonography in children with Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Hayashi Kentaro , Ishimaru Tetsuya , Takahashi Tomoko , Omata Kanako , Sanmoto Youhei , Hirata Yuta , Kawashima Hiroshi , Iwanaka Tadashi
Published: February 2022

Background

This study aimed to describe our experience with three-dimensional endoanal ultrasonography (3D-EAUS) in patients who underwent surgery for Hirschsprung disease and to summarize the relationship between postoperative anal function and the distance between the anastomosis and intersphincteric groove (DBAI) measured via 3D-EAUS.

Results

We retrospectively reviewed patients with a history of undergoing surgery for Hirschsprung disease who visited our outpatient clinic between December 2018 and December 2019. All patients underwent 3D-EAUS for DBAI measurement. We used the Krickenbeck classification to evaluate postoperative anorectal function.

Eleven patients (all males aged 3–14 years) were evaluated. Four (36.4%), four (36.4%), and three (27.3%) patients had no soiling, grade 1 soiling, and grade 3 soiling, respectively. Four (36.4%) and seven (63.6%) patients had no constipation and grade 3 constipation, respectively. The median DBAI values were 7.0 mm, 8.4 mm, and 5.6 mm (p = 0.14) in the no soiling, grade 1, and grade 3 soiling groups, respectively.

Conclusions

3D-EAUS enabled precise visualization of the anal anatomy and evaluation of the anastomosis. The DBAI was relatively short in patients with grade 3 soiling, although not significantly so. Further evaluation is warranted.
Broadening the Spectrum of Loss-of-Function Variants in NPR-C-Related Extreme Tall Stature
Authors: Lauffer Peter , Boudin Eveline , van der Kaay Daniëlle C M , Koene Saskia , van Haeringen Arie , van Tellingen Vera , Van Hul Wim , Prickett Timothy C R , Mortier Geert , Espiner Eric A , van Duyvenvoorde Hermine A
Published: February 2022

Context

Natriuretic peptide receptor-C (NPR-C, encoded by NPR3) belongs to a family of cell membrane–integral proteins implicated in various physiological processes, including longitudinal bone growth. NPR-C acts as a clearance receptor of natriuretic peptides, including C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), that stimulate the cGMP-forming guanylyl cyclase-coupled receptors NPR-A and NPR-B. Pathogenic variants in CNP, NPR2, and NPR3 may cause a tall stature phenotype associated with macrodactyly of the halluces and epiphyseal dysplasia.

Objective

Here we report on a boy with 2 novel biallelic inactivating variants of NPR3.

Methods

History and clinical characteristics were collected. Biochemical indices of natriuretic peptide clearance and in vitro cellular localization of NPR-C were studied to investigate causality of the identified variants.

Results

We identified 2 novel compound heterozygous NPR3 variants c.943G>A p.(Ala315Thr) and c.1294A>T p.(Ile432Phe) in a boy with tall stature and macrodactyly of the halluces. In silico analysis indicated decreased stability of NPR-C, presumably resulting in increased degradation or trafficking defects. Compared to other patients with NPR-C loss-of-function, the phenotype seemed to be milder: pseudo-epiphyses in hands and feet were absent, biochemical features were less severe, and there was some co-localization of p.(Ile432Phe) NPR-C with the cell membrane, as opposed to complete cytoplasmic retention.

Conclusion

With this report on a boy with tall stature and macrodactyly of the halluces we further broaden the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of NPR-C-related tall stature.
Contrast-enhanced digital breast tomosythesis and breast MRI to monitor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy: patient tolerance and preference
Authors: Savaridas Sarah L , Whelehan Patsy , Warwick Violet R , Vinnicombe Sarah J , Evans Andrew J
Published: February 2022

Objective:

Contrast-enhanced digital breast tomosynthesis (CE-DBT) is a novel imaging technique, combining contrast-enhanced spectral mammography and tomosynthesis. This may offer an alternative imaging technique to breast MRI for monitoring of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. This paper addresses patient experience and preference regarding the two techniques.

Methods:

Conducted as part of a prospective pilot study; patients were asked to complete questionnaires pertaining to their experience of CE-DBT and MRI following pre-treatment and end-of-treatment imaging. Questionnaires consisted of eight questions answered on a categorical scale, two using a visual analogue scale (VAS), and a question to indicate preference of imaging technique. Statistical analysis was performed with Wilcoxon signed rank test and McNemar test for related samples using SPSS v. 25.

Results:

18 patients were enrolled in the pilot study. Matched CE-DBT and MRI questionnaires were completed after 22 patient episodes. Patient preference was indicated after 31 patient episodes. Overall, on 77% of occasions patients preferred CE-DBT with no difference between pre-treatment and end-of-treatment imaging. Overall experience (p = 0.008), non-breast pain (p = 0.046), anxiety measured using VAS (p = 0.003), and feeling of being put at ease by staff (p = 0.023) was better for CE-DBT. However, more breast pain was experienced during CE-DBT when measured on both VAS (p = 0.011) and categorical scale (p = 0.021).

Conclusion:

Our paper suggests that patients prefer CE-DBT to MRI, adding further evidence in favour of contrast-enhanced mammographic techniques.

Advances in knowledge:

Contrast mammographic techniques offer an alternative, more accessible imaging technique to breast MRI. Whilst other studies have addressed patient experience of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography, this is the first study to directly explore patient preference for CE-DBT over MRI in the setting of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, finding that overall, patients preferred CE-DBT despite the relatively long breast compression.
Cyber technology and the European Union’s gestaltian approach to China
Authors: Hasmath Reza , Berzina-Cerenkova Una
Published: February 2022

Contemporary European Union (EU) and China relations are marked by a simultaneously beneficial, conflictual and competitive partnership. This is aptly evident in the cyber technology realm. This paper contends that the European Union’s gestaltian approach towards China can be understood with the aid of three theoretical positions: (1) an institutional perspective; (2) as a values-based actor; and, (3) a realpolitik dimension. The arguments advanced in the paper, ultimately imply that the EU’s approach towards China can provide various EU domestic and global actors’ space to exploit contradictions, notably when it comes to cyber technology diplomacy. This has the attendant effect of fostering future fissures in the EU’s overall engagement with China.
A network of empirical ethics teams embedded in research programmes across multiple sites: opportunities and challenges in contributing to COVID-19 research and responses
Authors: Ngwenya Nothando , Ilo Van Nuil Jennifer , Nyirenda Deborah , Chambers Mary , Cheah Phaik Yeong , Seeley Janet , Chi Primus , Mafuleka Lindiwe , Nkosi Busisiwe , Kamuya Dorcas , Davies Alun , Schneiders Mira Leonie , Mumba Noni , Dlamini Siphephelo , Desmond Nicola , Marsh Vicki , Rippon Dinnah , Parker Michael , Molyneux Sassy
Published: February 2022

Covid-19 continues to teach the global community important lessons about preparedness for research and effective action to respond to emerging health threats.  We share the COVID-19 experiences of a pre-existing cross-site ethics network-the Global Health Bioethics Network-which brings together researchers and practitioners from Africa, Europe, and South east Asia. We describe the network and its members and activities, and the work-related opportunities and challenges we faced over a one-year period during the pandemic. We highlight the value of having strong and long-term empirical ethics networks embedded across diverse research institutions to be able to: 1) identify and share relevant ethics challenges and research questions and ways of ’doing research’; 2) work with key stakeholders to identify appropriate ways to contribute to the emerging health issue response – e.g. through ethics oversight, community engagement, and advisory roles at different levels; and 3) learn from each other and from diverse contexts to advocate for positive change at multiple levels. It is our view that being both embedded and long term offers particular opportunities in terms of deep institutional and contextual knowledge and relationships with and access to a wide range of stakeholders in place. Being networked offers opportunities to draw upon a wide range of expertise and perspectives operating at multiple levels, and to bring together internal and external perspectives (i.e. different positionalities). Long term funding means that the people and resources are in place and ready to respond in a timely way. However, many tensions and challenges remain, including difficulties in negotiating power and politics regarding roles that researchers and research institutions play in an emergency, and the position of empirical ethics activities in programmes of research more specifically. We discuss some of these tensions and challenges, and consider the implications for our own and similar networks in future.
The genome sequence of a parasitoid wasp, Ichneumon xanthorius Forster, 1771
Authors:   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab, Broad Gavin ,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2022

We present a genome assembly from an individual femaleIchneumon xanthorius(Arthropoda; Insecta; Hymenoptera; Ichneumonidae). The genome sequence is 315 megabases in span. The majority of the assembly (82.64%) is scaffolded into 12 chromosomal pseudomolecules. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl has identified 10,622 protein coding genes.
Intensive care unit management of uncomplicated type B aortic dissection in relation to treatment period: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Lee Chul Ho , Jang Jae Seok , Cho Jun Woo
Published: February 2022

Background: Medical therapy is the standard treatment for uncomplicated acute type B aortic dissection (ATBAD), but there is little evidence of the need for intensive care unit (ICU) management. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of ICU treatment on uncomplicated ATBAD.Methods: We retrospectively studied patients with uncomplicated ATBAD who were medically treated between January 2010 and July 2020. Patients were divided into long-term ICU stay (LIS) and short-term ICU stay (SIS) groups, according to a 48-hour cutoff of ICU stay duration. The incidence of pneumonia and delirium, rate of aortic events, hospital mortality, and survival rate were compared.Results: Fifty-five patients were treated for uncomplicated ATBAD (n=26 for LIS and n=29 for SIS). The incidence of pneumonia (7.7% vs. 3.6%) and delirium (34.6% vs. 14.3%) was higher in the LIS group than in the SIS group, but the differences were not statistically significant. The survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were not different between the two groups (LIS: 96.2%, 88.0%, and 54.2% vs. SIS: 96.4%, 92.2%, and 75.5%, respectively; p=0.102). Multivariate Cox regression analysis for aortic events showed that using a calcium channel blocker lowered the risk of aortic events.Conclusion: Long-term ICU treatment is unlikely to be necessary for the treatment of uncomplicated ATBAD. Active use of antihypertensive agents, such as calcium channel blockers, may be needed during the follow-up period.
Standard incision and median nerve external neurolysis for recalcitrant carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Al-Dhafer Bassmh A. , Kim Sang Young , Shin Young Ho , Kim Jae Kwang , Choi Shin Woo
Published: February 2022

Purpose: Failed carpal tunnel surgery poses a challenge for the attending surgeon(s). Numerous revision techniques have been reported in the literature, with evidence of long-term improvement. However, studies exploring how early could symptomatic improvement be detected are scarce. The objective of this study was to identify the speed of symptom(s) recovery after a repeated decompression technique using an open standard incision and median external nerve neurolysis with no supplemental procedures.Methods: Nine patients who underwent revision carpal tunnel surgery involving standard incision, external median neurolysis, and no supplemental techniques between June 2017 and June 2020, were included. Data regarding the preoperative Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, visual analogue score, and grip strength were collected and compared with evaluation results at 3 months postoperatively. Results: In all patients, severe adhesion of the median nerve with the surrounding soft tissue was confirmed intraoperatively. Compared with preoperative findings, 3-month evaluation of patients demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the BCTQ symptoms score and pain score. All nine patients were satisfied with the procedure. Conclusion: Standard incision and median nerve external neurolysis can be a good option for recalcitrant carpal tunnel syndrome patient who has an adhesion of the median nerve with surrounding soft tissue.
La traducción de Ariel, de Sylvia Plath, al alemán Los borradores del traductor como objeto de estudio.
Authors: Hernández Rodilla Itziar
Published: February 2022

Traducir puede tener el mismo significado que crear para autores que se mueven entre dos lenguas como Erich Fried, de origen vienés y residente en Inglaterra desde los 17 años, que escribió siempre en alemán, lengua a la que también tradujo numerosas obras, entre ellas Ariel, de Sylvia Plath. Analizar las diversas versiones de un único proceso traslativo, desde el primer borrador hasta la versión definitiva —en este caso los borradores inéditos de la traducción de «Tulips» y «Fever 103º» que Erich Fried realizó al alemán, tal y como se conservan en el archivo de la Biblioteca Nacional en Viena— puede proporcionar información extraordinaria sobre la introducción de nuevas ideas o formas artísticas en un marco lingüístico y cultural naturalmente diverso.