bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the impact of air pollutants on clinical visits for childhood allergic respiratory disease induced by house dust mite in Shanghai, China
Authors: Li Junyang , Hu Yabin , Li Huaiyuan , Lin Yihang , Tong Shilu , Li Youjin
Published: March 2022

Background

The prevalence of allergic respiratory disease (ARD) is increasing worldwide during the last few decades, causing a great disease burden especially for children. Air pollution has been increasingly considered as a potential contributor to this trend, but its role in ARD induced by house dust mite (HDM-ARD) remains unclear, especially in time-series study.

Methods

A positive reporting of respiratory allergy to named allergens was included by serum specific IgE testing. A time series Quasi-Poisson regression with distributed lag non-linear model, combined with generalized linear model was used to examine the effects of air pollutants on ARD, HDM-ARD and ARD induced by non-house dust mite (NHDM-ARD).

Results

A total of 16,249 cases of ARD, including 8,719 HDM-ARD and 8,070 NHDM-ARD from 1 Jan 2013 to 31 Dec 2017 were involved in this study. Air pollutants were significantly associated with clinical visits for childhood ARD and HDM-ARD. Exposure to higher O3 and interquartile range (IQR) increment in O3 (40.6 µg/m3) increased the risks of clinical visits for childhood HDM-ARD (RRlag0-5 for the 95th percentile of O3: 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03, 1.55; RRlag0-5 for IQR increment (40.6 µg/m3): 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.17) and ARD (RRlag0-5 for the 95th percentile of O3: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.38; RRlag0-5 for IQR increment (40.6 µg/m3): 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.12). In addition, higher O3 was associated with increased RR of boys with ARD (RRlag0-5 for the 95th percentile: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.51; RRlag0-5 for IQR increment (40.6 µg/m3): 1.09, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.16) and HDM-ARD (RRlag0-5 for the 95th percentile: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.75; RRlag0-5 for IQR increment (40.6 µg/m3): 1.11, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.22), but not in girls.

Conclusions

Exposure to O3 appeared to be a trigger of clinical visits for childhood ARD, especially for HDM-ARD and boys. These findings provide novel evidence on the impact of air pollution on HDM-ARD, which may have significant implications for designing effective intervention programs to control and prevent childhood ARD, especially HDM-ARD, in China and other similar developing countries.
Plasma proteome changes linked to late phase response after inhaled allergen challenge in asthmatics
Authors: Weitoft Maria , Kadefors Måns , Stenberg Henning , Tufvesson Ellen , Diamant Zuzana , Rolandsson Enes Sara , Bjermer Leif , Rosmark Oskar , Westergren-Thorsson Gunilla
Published: March 2022

Background

A subset of individuals with allergic asthma develops a late phase response (LPR) to inhaled allergens, which is characterized by a prolonged airway obstruction, airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. The aim of this study was to identify changes in the plasma proteome and circulating hematopoietic progenitor cells associated with the LPR following inhaled allergen challenge.

Methods

Serial plasma samples from asthmatics undergoing inhaled allergen challenge were analyzed by mass spectrometry and immunosorbent assays. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Mass spectrometry data were analyzed using a linear regression to model the relationship between airway obstruction during the LPR and plasma proteome changes. Data from immunosorbent assays were analyzed using linear mixed models.

Results

Out of 396 proteins quantified in plasma, 150 showed a statistically significant change 23 h post allergen challenge. Among the most upregulated proteins were three protease inhibitors: alpha-1-antitrypsin, alpha-1-antichymotrypsin and plasma serine protease inhibitor. Altered levels of 13 proteins were associated with the LPR, including increased factor XIII A and decreased von Willebrand factor. No relationship was found between the LPR and changes in the proportions of classical, intermediate, and non-classical monocytes.

Conclusions

Allergic reactions to inhaled allergens in asthmatic subjects were associated with changes in a large proportion of the measured plasma proteome, whereof protease inhibitors showed the largest changes, likely to influence the inflammatory response. Many of the proteins altered in relation to the LPR are associated with coagulation, highlighting potential mechanistic targets for future treatments of type-2 asthma.
Drug delivery strategy in hepatocellular carcinoma therapy
Authors: Yang Sisi , Cai Chengwei , Wang Huanqiu , Ma Xueqing , Shao Anwen , Sheng Jifang , Yu Chengbo
Published: March 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, with high rates of recurrence and death. Surgical resection and ablation therapy have limited efficacy for patients with advanced HCC and poor liver function, so pharmacotherapy is the first-line option for those patients. Traditional antitumor drugs have the disadvantages of poor biological distribution and pharmacokinetics, poor target selectivity, high resistance, and high toxicity to nontargeted tissues. Recently, the development of nanotechnology has significantly improved drug delivery to tumor sites by changing the physical and biological characteristics of drugs and nanocarriers to improve their pharmacokinetics and biological distribution and to selectively accumulate cytotoxic agents at tumor sites. Here, we systematically review the tumor microenvironment of HCC and the recent application of nanotechnology in HCC.
The combination of endurance exercise and SGTC (Salvia–Ginseng–Trigonella–Cinnamon) ameliorate mitochondrial markers’ overexpression with sufficient ATP production in the skeletal muscle of mice fed AGEs-rich high-fat diet
Authors: Haghparast Azad Maryam , Niktab Iman , Dastjerdi Shaghayegh , Abedpoor Navid , Rahimi Golbarg , Safaeinejad Zahra , Peymani Maryam , Forootan Farzad Seyed , Asadi-Shekaari Majid , Nasr Esfahani Mohammad Hossein , Ghaedi Kamran
Published: March 2022

Background

Skeletal muscle mitochondria is one of the most important affected sites of T2DM and its molecular mechanism is yet to be elucidated. Some recent theories believed that mitochondrial markers are upregulated in response to high fat induced T2DM; however, the reasons and the affected factors are still uncertain. In this regard, we aimed to investigate the effect of high fat induced T2DM on mitochondrial markers of skeletal muscle, and an herbal component along with endurance exercise, as probable treatments, in AGE-rich high-fat diet (AGEs-HFD) induced T2DM mice.

Methods

T2DM was induced by 16 weeks of AGEs-HFD consumption in male C57BL/6 mice, followed by 8 weeks of drugs ingestion and endurance exercise treatments (n = 6 in each group and total number of 42 mice). The herbal component was an aquatic extract of Salvia officinalis, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Panax ginseng, and Cinnamomum zeylanicum, termed “SGTC”. We then examined the relative expression of several mitochondrial markers, including Ppargc1α, Tfam, and electron transport chain genes and ATP levels, in skeletal muscle samples.

Results

T2DM was successfully induced according to morphological, biochemical, and molecular observations. All mitochondrial markers, including Ppargc1a, Tfam, Cpt2, and electron transport chain genes, were upregulated in T2DM group compared to controls with no significant changes in the ATP levels. Most mitochondrial markers were downregulated by drug treatment compared to T2DM, but the ATP level was not significantly altered. All mitochondrial markers were upregulated in exercised group compared to T2DM with mild increase in the ATP level. The Ex + SGTC group had moderate level of mitochondrial markers compared to T2DM, but the highest ATP production.

Conclusion

The highly significant overexpression of mitochondrial markers may be in response to free fatty acid overload. However, the lack of significant change in the ATP level may be a result of ROS generation due to electron leakage in the AGEsRAGE axis and electron transport chain. Almost all treatments ameliorate mitochondrial markers’ overexpression. The SGTC appears to regulate this with its antioxidant properties. Instead, exercise upregulated mitochondrial markers efficiently; however, the most efficient results, i.e. the most ATP production among the treatments, were observed in the Ex + SGTC group.

Graphical Abstract
Implementation of a non-randomized controlled trial of yoga-based intervention to reduce behavioural issues in early adolescent school-going children in Sri Lanka
Authors: Sivashankar Josephine Thirumagal , Surenthirakumaran Rajendra , Doherty Shannon , Sathiakumar Nalini
Published: March 2022

Background

Adolescence can be difficult to navigate and the post-conflict environment in Jaffna Province, Sri Lanka compounds existing issues for adolescents. Conduct problems, hyperactivity along with emotional problems are challenges faced by adolescents, particularly in fragile, post-conflict settings. This study was a non-randomized controlled trial carried out in 4 educational zones over 6 months. The study implemented a yoga-based intervention package: two types of slow breathing for 5-6 min, Surya-namaskaram for 6-8 min, and mindfulness meditation for 5-6 min. Pre/post quantitative assessments were conducted with intervention and control groups. A focus group was conducted with the intervention group. The aim was to evaluate. Effectiveness of implementing a yoga-based intervention package in grade 8 school children (early adolescents) to address behavioural problems.

Results

Paired t-test and independent t-tests were completed for both arms using statistical product and service solutions (SPSS21). Parents’ assessments of emotional issues reduced for the intervention group (n = 584) [t(584) = 11.41, p = 0.001] along with reduction of the total difficulty score [t(584) = 28.12, p = 0.001]. Teachers’ assessments indicated prosocial scores improved in the intervention group [t(584) = − 28.5, p = 0.001]. Students’ self-assessments in the intervention group indicate a reduction in emotional problems [t(584) = 6.4, p = 0.001], and reduction in problems with peers [t(584) = 14.4, p = 0.001]. Within the control group (n = 499), teachers’ assessments indicated emotional problems increased [t(499) = − 9.5, p = 0.001] and prosocial scores reduced [t(499) = 13.5, p = 0.001]. Students’ self-assessments in the control group indicated emotional problems increased [t(499) = − 27.1, p = 0.001]. A comparison of post-test scores revealed a statistically significant difference between groups. Focus group results indicate students felt the intervention had an overall positive effect on school achievements, family dynamics and individual health.

Conclusions

This yoga-based intervention package appeared to be effective in reducing both externalizing and internalizing symptoms in adolescents. Practicing Surya-namaskaram, breathing control techniques and mindfulness meditation significantly reduced both externalizing symptoms (conduct problems and hyperactivity) as well as internalizing symptom (emotional problem and peer problems). It is recommended this intervention be scaled up across Sri Lanka and other similar post-conflict regions.
The visibility of breastfeeding as a sexual and reproductive health right: a review of the relevant literature
Authors: Stone Carina , Smith Julie P.
Published: March 2022

Background

Governments must protect and apply maximum feasible resourcing to the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding in order to meet their international legal obligations with respect to the human rights of women and children. However, governments across the world have consistently failed in these duties. Breastfeeding has been notably absent from mainstream feminist advocacy on sexual and reproductive health rights (‘SRH rights’). Why is there this lack of focus on breastfeeding in feminist advocacy in this area? This review seeks to identify the extent to which the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding is visible within the SRH rights and the gender responsive budgeting literature.

Method

A cross-disciplinary single scoping literature review of online and other databases was conducted to yield final samples of eighty-seven publications from the SRH rights literature and forty-four publications from the gender responsive budgeting literature. These publications were searched for references to breastfeeding.

Results

Only 21% of the sexual and reproductive health rights literature and just one gender responsive budgeting publication sampled referenced the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding. Where breastfeeding was mentioned in the publications reviewed it was, in general, brief and on the periphery of discussion.

Conclusions

Reviews of the SRH rights literature and the gender budgeting literature both reveal an overwhelming absence of meaningful analysis on breastfeeding. The lack of attention to breastfeeding in the gender advocacy space represents a lost opportunity to advocate for the alleviation of the economic and social constraints imposed on breastfeeding women and caregivers.
White matter is increased in the brains of adults with neurofibromatosis 1
Authors: Wang Su , Friedman Jan M. , Suppa Per , Buchert Ralph , Mautner Victor-Felix
Published: March 2022

Background

Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a rare autosomal dominant disease characterized by increased Schwann cell proliferation in peripheral nerves. Several small studies of brain morphology in children with NF1 have found increased total brain volume, total white matter volume and/or corpus callosum area. Some studies (mostly in children with NF1) also attempted to correlate changes in brain morphology and volume with cognitive or behavioural abnormalities, although the findings were inconsistent. We aimed to characterize alterations in brain volumes by three-dimensional (3D) MRI in adults with NF1 in major intracranial sub-regions. We also aimed to assess the effect of age on these volumes and correlated brain white matter and grey matter volumes with neuropsychometric findings in adults with NF1.

Methods

We obtained brain volume measurements using 3D magnetic resonance imaging for 351 adults with NF1 and, as a comparison group, 43 adults with neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) or Schwannomatosis. We assessed a subset of 19 adults with NF1 for clinical severity of NF1 features and neurological problems and conducted psychometric testing for attention deficiencies and intelligence quotient. We compared brain volumes between NF1 patients and controls and correlated volumetric measurements to clinical and psychometric features in the NF1 patients.

Results

Total brain volume and total and regional white matter volumes were all significantly increased in adults with NF1. Grey matter volume decreased faster with age in adults with NF1 than in controls. Greater total brain volume and white matter volume were correlated with lower attention deficits and higher intelligence quotients in adults with NF1.

Conclusion

Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that dysregulation of brain myelin production is a cardinal manifestation of NF1 and that these white matter changes may be functionally important in affected adults.
Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: a THESIS* survey of Belgian specialists *THESIS: treatment of hypothyroidism in Europe by specialists: an international survey
Authors: Burlacu Maria-Cristina , Attanasio Roberto , Hegedüs Laszlo , Nagy Endre V. , Papini Enrico , Perros Petros , Sawadogo Kiswendsida , Bex Marie , Corvilain Bernard , Daumerie Chantal , Decallonne Brigitte , Gruson Damien , Lapauw Bruno , Reyes Rodrigo Moreno , Petrossians Patrick , Poppe Kris , Van den Bruel Annick , Unuane David
Published: March 2022

Background

Hypothyroidism is a topic that continues to provoke debate and controversy with regards to specific indications, type of thyroid hormone substitution and efficacy. We investigated the use of thyroid hormones in clinical practice in Belgium, a country where currently only levothyroxine (LT4) tablet formulations are available.

Method

Members of the Belgian Endocrine Society were invited to respond to an online questionnaire. Results were compared with those from other THESIS surveys.

Results

Eighty (50%) of the invited 160 individuals, completed the questionnaire. LT4 was the first treatment of choice for all respondents. As secondary choice, some also prescribed liothyronine (LT3) and LT4 + LT3 combinations (2 and 7 respondents, respectively). Besides hypothyroidism, 34 and 50% of respondents used thyroid hormones for infertile euthyroid TPOAb positive women and the treatment of a growing non-toxic goiter, respectively. Had alternative formulations of LT4 to tablets been available (soft gel or liquid L-T4), 2 out of 80 (2.5%) participants would consider them for patients achieving biochemical euthyroidism but remaining symptomatic. This proportion was higher in case of unexplained poor biochemical control of hypothyroidism (13.5%) and in patients with celiac disease or malabsorption or interfering drugs (10%). In symptomatic euthyroid patients, 20% of respondents would try combined LT4 + LT3 treatment. Psychosocial factors were highlighted as the main contributors to persistent symptoms.

Conclusions

LT4 tablets is the preferred treatment for hypothyroidism in Belgium. A minority of the respondents would try combined LT4 + LT3 in symptomatic but biochemically euthyroid patients. Thyroid hormones are prescribed for euthyroid infertile women with thyroid autoimmunity and patients with non-toxic goiter, a tendency noted in other European countries, despite current evidence of lack of benefit.
Immune responses to alglucosidase in infantile Pompe disease: recommendations from an Italian pediatric expert panel
Authors: Gragnaniello Vincenza , Deodato Federica , Gasperini Serena , Donati Maria Alice , Canessa Clementina , Fecarotta Simona , Pascarella Antonia , Spadaro Giuseppe , Concolino Daniela , Burlina Alberto , Parenti Giancarlo , Strisciuglio Pietro , Fiumara Agata , Casa Roberto Della
Published: March 2022

Background

Classic infantile onset of Pompe disease (c-IOPD) leads to hypotonia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy within the first days to weeks of life and, without treatment, patients die of cardiorespiratory failure in their first 1–2 years of life. Enzymatic replacement therapy (ERT) with alglucosidase alfa is the only available treatment, but adverse immune reactions can reduce ERT’s effectiveness and safety. It is therefore very important to identify strategies to prevent and manage these complications. Several articles have been written on this disease over the last 10 years, but no univocal indications have been established.

Methods

Our study presents a review of the current literature on management of immune responses to ERT in c-IOPD as considered by an Italian study group of pediatric metabolists and immunologists in light of our shared patient experience.

Results

We summarize the protocols for the management of adverse reactions to ERT, analyzing their advantages and disadvantages, and provide expert recommendations for their optimal management, to the best of current knowledge. However, further studies are needed to improve actual management protocols, which still have several limitations.
Non-inferiority test for a continuous variable with a flexible margin in an active controlled trial: an application to the “Stratall ANRS 12110 / ESTHER” trial
Authors: Sandie Arsene Brunelle , Molinari Nicolas , Wanjoya Anthony , Kouanfack Charles , Laurent Christian , Tchatchueng-Mbougua Jules Brice
Published: March 2022

Background

Non-inferiority trials are becoming increasingly popular in public health and clinical research. The choice of the non-inferiority margin is the cornerstone of such trials. Most of the time, the non-inferiority margin is fixed and constant, determined from historical trials as a fraction of the effect of the reference intervention. But in some circumstances, there may some uncertainty around the reference treatment that one would like to account for when performing the hypothesis testing. In this case, the non-inferiority margin is not fixed in advance and depends on the reference intervention estimate. Hence, the uncertainty surrounding the non-inferiority margin should be accounted for in statistical tests. In this work, we explore how to perform the non-inferiority test for a continuous variable with a flexible margin.

Methods

We have proposed in this study, two procedures for the non-inferiority test with a flexible margin for continuous endpoints. The proposed test procedures are based on a test statistic and confidence interval approaches respectively. Simulations have been used to assess the performances and properties of the proposed test procedures. An application was done on a real-world clinical data, to assess the efficacy of clinical monitoring alone versus laboratory and clinical monitoring in HIV-infected adult patients.

Results

Basically, for both proposed methods, the type I error estimate was not dependent on the values of the reference treatment. In the test statistic approach, the type 1 error rate estimate was approximatively equal to the nominal value. It has been found that the confidence interval level determined approximatively the level of significance. For a given nominal type I error α, the appropriate one- and two-sided confidence intervals should be with levels 1−α and 1−2α, respectively.

Conclusions

Based on the type I error rate and power estimates, the proposed non-inferiority hypothesis test procedures had good performances and were applicable in practice.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00301561. Registered on March 13, 2006, url: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00301561.
Changes in DNA methylation hallmark alterations in chromatin accessibility and gene expression for eye lens differentiation
Authors: Disatham Joshua , Brennan Lisa , Jiao Xiaodong , Ma Zhiwei , Hejtmancik J. Fielding , Kantorow Marc
Published: March 2022

Background

Methylation at cytosines (mCG) is a well-known regulator of gene expression, but its requirements for cellular differentiation have yet to be fully elucidated. A well-studied cellular differentiation model system is the eye lens, consisting of a single anterior layer of epithelial cells that migrate laterally and differentiate into a core of fiber cells. Here, we explore the genome-wide relationships between mCG methylation, chromatin accessibility and gene expression during differentiation of eye lens epithelial cells into fiber cells.

Results

Whole genome bisulfite sequencing identified 7621 genomic loci exhibiting significant differences in mCG levels between lens epithelial and fiber cells. Changes in mCG levels were inversely correlated with the differentiation state-specific expression of 1285 genes preferentially expressed in either lens fiber or lens epithelial cells (Pearson correlation r = − 0.37, p < 1 × 10–42). mCG levels were inversely correlated with chromatin accessibility determined by assay for transposase-accessible sequencing (ATAC-seq) (Pearson correlation r = − 0.86, p < 1 × 10–300). Many of the genes exhibiting altered regions of DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility and gene expression levels in fiber cells relative to epithelial cells are associated with lens fiber cell structure, homeostasis and transparency. These include lens crystallins (CRYBA4, CRYBB1, CRYGN, CRYBB2), lens beaded filament proteins (BFSP1, BFSP2), transcription factors (HSF4, SOX2, HIF1A), and Notch signaling pathway members (NOTCH1, NOTCH2, HEY1, HES5). Analysis of regions exhibiting cell-type specific alterations in DNA methylation revealed an overrepresentation of consensus sequences of multiple transcription factors known to play key roles in lens cell differentiation including HIF1A, SOX2, and the MAF family of transcription factors.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results link DNA methylation with control of chromatin accessibility and gene expression changes required for eye lens differentiation. The results also point to a role for DNA methylation in the regulation of transcription factors previously identified to be important for lens cell differentiation.
Cultural tightness–looseness and national innovativeness: impacts of tolerance and diversity of opinion
Authors: Deckert Carsten , Schomaker Rahel M.
Published: March 2022

The links between innovativeness as a driver of economic performance, and the determinants of innovativeness have been investigated by management scholars and economists for decades, focusing mostly on “hard factors” as investment in research and development, or education. Focusing on a relatively neglected, but in times of globalization even more important aspect, the influence of cultural characteristics on innovativeness, we apply different econometric models to test for links between cultural tightness and looseness on the one hand, and national innovativeness on the other hand. We find that cultural tightness—in the sense of homogenous and intolerant societies—has a negative link to national innovativeness, while cultural looseness—in the sense of tolerant and diverse societies—displays a positive link to national innovativeness.
Factors influencing hospital stay duration for patients with mild ischemic colitis: a retrospective study
Authors: Huang Haosu , Wang Hanyue , Long Zhenpu , Wang Meng , Ding Junjie , Peng Jie
Published: March 2022

Background

Ischemic colitis is the most prevalent ischemic injury of the gastrointestinal tract. The majority of patients with mild ischemic colitis usually achieve complete clinical recovery shortly. However, the predictors of longer hospital stay duration are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the predictors of hospital stay duration for patients with mild ischemic colitis.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 100 patients with mild ischemic colitis between January 2010 and December 2020 at Xiangya Hospital (a tertiary care center). The clinical characteristics and therapeutic drugs of patients who were hospitalized for ≤ 8 days and ≥ 12 days were compared.

Results

Of the 100 patients included, 63 (63%) were hospitalized for ≤ 8 days and 37 (37%) were hospitalized for ≥ 12 days. Patients with cerebrovascular disease (29.7% vs. 11.1%, p = 0.019) and abdominal surgical history (29.7% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.004) were more likely to be hospitalized for ≥ 12 days than for ≤ 8 days. The d-dimer levels [0.78 (0.41–1.82) vs. 0.28 (0.16–0.73), p = 0.001] and positive fecal occult blood test results (86.5% vs. 60.3%, p = 0.006) were higher in patients who were hospitalized for ≥ 12 days than in those who were hospitalized for ≤ 8 days. Probiotic use was greater in patients hospitalized for ≤ 8 days (76.2% vs. 54.1%, p = 0.022). Multivariate analysis indicated that cerebrovascular disease (odds ratio [OR] = 4.585; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.129–18.624; p = 0.033), abdominal surgical history (OR = 4.551; 95% CI 1.060–19.546; p = 0.042), higher d-dimer levels (OR = 1.928; 95% CI 1.024–3.632; p = 0.042), and higher positive fecal occult blood test results (OR = 7.211; 95% CI 1.929–26.953; p = 0.003) were associated with longer hospital stays.

Conclusion

Cerebrovascular disease, abdominal surgical history, higher d-dimer levels, and higher positive fecal occult blood test results are independent and significant factors that influence longer hospital stays for patients with mild ischemic colitis. Probiotics helped reduce hospital stay in these patients.
Depopulation or vaccination? Tackling the COVID-19 crisis in prisons in Africa
Authors: Katey Daniel , Abass Kabila , Garsonu Emmanuel Kofi , Gyasi Razak M.
Published: March 2022

Several attempts have been made by the global public health efforts and national governments to contain the spread and vulnerabilities to COVID-19. Evidence, however, shows a disproportionate upsurge in COVID-19 cases in correctional facilities such as prisons, particularly, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The poor adherence to COVID-19 preventive protocols in these settings has raised a serious “moral panic” among the public. There are public health concerns about the most effective and state-of-the-art approach to tackling the continuous spread of the virus in prisons. This paper discusses the feasibility of depopulation and vaccination rollouts in combating COVID-19 in correctional facilities with a particular focus on African prisons. The paper proposes selective and strategic depopulation of prisoners, effective prioritization of vaccination among prisoners, and general sensitization of prisoners toward vaccine disbursement in this total institution.
The influences of student- and school-level factors on engineering undergraduate student success outcomes: A multi-level multi-school study
Authors: Wang Xi , Dai Minhao , Mathis Robin
Published: March 2022

Background

Given the relatively low graduation and retention rate in undergraduate engineering programs in the United States, the factors that influence student success outcomes need to be examined. However, limited research systematically studied both student- and school-level factors and how they influenced undergraduate engineering student success outcomes. We gathered responses from 458 engineering undergraduate students in a cross-sectional multilevel multi-school (14 schools) survey. These 14 schools included both large state universities and liberal arts colleges. The survey measured various student-level factors, including demographic, skills, and personality variables, along with seven school-level factors, such as student–faculty ratio and school type (i.e., public versus private). The data were analyzed using the hierarchical multilevel modeling approach.

Results

The results showed that female students reported better outcomes than male students, racial minority students reported better outcomes than White students, but first-generation students reported poorer outcomes. Communication competency was associated with student learning outcomes, GPA, and program satisfaction, whereas conflict management preferences were not significantly correlated with any student success outcomes. The results of the school-level factors’ influences on student success outcomes were not consistent, but some factors, such as student–faculty ratios and diversity rate, were significantly related to some student outcomes.

Conclusion

Engineering education is a complex, multi-faceted issue that requires more collaborative and systematic research. We hope our findings help educators understand the different factors that could potentially influence engineering students and inform better program design and policymaking.
Reshaping the binding channel of a novel GH113 family β-mannanase from Paenibacillus cineris (PcMan113) for enhanced activity
Authors: Sun Dengyue , Li Chao , Cui Pengpeng , Zhang Jie , Zhou Yaolin , Wu Mian , Li Xia , Wang Teng-fei , Zeng Zhixiong , Qin Hui-Min
Published: March 2022

Endo-β-mannanases are important enzymes for degrading lignocellulosic biomass to generate mannan, which has significant health effects as a prebiotic that promotes the development of gut microbiota. Here, a novel endo-β-mannanase belonging to glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 113 from Paenibacillus cineris (PcMan113) was cloned, expressed and characterized, as one of only a few reported GH113 family β-mannanases. Compared to other functionally and structurally characterized GH113 mannanases, recombinant PcMan113 showed a broader substrate spectrum and a better performance. Based on a structural homology model, the highly active mutant PcMT3 (F110E/N246Y) was obtained, with 4.60- and 5.53-fold increases of enzyme activity (towards KG) and catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km, against M5) compared with the WT enzyme, respectively. Furthermore, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to precisely explore the differences of catalytic activity between WT and PcMT3, which revealed that PcMT3 has a less flexible conformation, as well as an enlarged substrate-binding channel with decreased steric hindrance and increased binding energy in substrate recognition. In conclusion, we obtained a highly active variant of PcMan113 with potential for commercial application in the manufacture of manno-oligosaccharides.

Graphical Abstract
Dogs at school: a quantitative analysis of parental perceptions of canine-assisted activities in schools mediated by child anxiety score and use case
Authors: Fynn Wendy Irene , Runacres Jessica
Published: March 2022

Canine-assisted activities in schools can benefit students’ educational, emotional, and social needs. Furthermore, they could be an effective form of non-clinical mental health treatment for children and adolescents. In the United Kingdom, school dogs are growing in popularity, however, little is known about how parents perceive canine-assisted activities as a treatment option. This is important as parental perceptions can influence engagement, whilst lack of awareness can become a barrier to treatment. This study uses a cross-sectional design to quantitatively explore the acceptability of canine-assisted activities amongst UK-based parents (n = 318) of children aged six to 16 (M = 10.12, SD = 3.22). An online survey used a treatment evaluation to determine acceptability across three use-cases. These included a child reading to dogs to improve literacy skills, a child interacting one-to-one to foster greater self-esteem and social skills, and a classroom dog to improve student behaviour and motivation. Additionally, the scale for generalised anxiety disorder was used to rank child anxiety as high or low, where high was a score equal to or above the UK clinical borderline threshold. The results found canine-assisted activities were less acceptable for the behavioural than the reading and social use-cases. Furthermore, parents of children with high anxiety had higher acceptability scores than parents of children with low anxiety for the reading and social use-cases but not for the behavioural use case. These findings suggest that UK parents' acceptability of canine-assisted activities in schools is mediated by child anxiety score. Furthermore, that parents may be less aware of the benefits of classroom dogs than other types of school-based canine-assisted activities.
A single center 9-year experience in IVC filter retrieval - the importance of an IVC filter registry
Authors: Sheehan Mark , Coppin Kristopher , O’Brien Cormac , McGrath Andrew , Given Mark , Keeling Aoife , Lee Michael J
Published: March 2022

Background

To evaluate Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter retrieval practices over a 9-year period at an academic hospital with a prospectively maintained IVC filter registry.

Method

An IVC filter registry was maintained prospectively within our institution. We reviewed cases between August 2011 and June 2020, following filter status, retrieval plans, and eventual retrieval date. The validity of the database was cross referenced with a Picture Archiving and Communication System and patient records.

Results

Three hundred forty-three patients had IVC filters inserted. Three filter types were used, Celect (Cook Medical) in 189, Gunther Tulip (GT) (Cook Medical) in 65, ALN (ALN) in 89. 196 (57%) filters were retrieved, 108 (31.5%) were made permanent, 36 (10.5%) died before retrieval, and 3 (1%) were yet to be retrieved.

Retrieval rates were 92.5% overall (86% for GT, 93% for Celect and 94.5% for ALN). The mean dwell time for successful retrieval was 59 days with the majority of insertions (85%) removed in under 100 days. Failed initial retrieval occurred in 23 patients, 10 (43%) were retrieved at second attempt, 13/23 filters remained in-situ and were deemed permanent.

Conclusion

The removal of IVC filters, when indication for insertion has past, is no longer the sole responsibility of the referring physician but also the responsibility of the Interventionalist. Our retrieval rates of 92.5% of eligible IVC filters highlights the value of maintaining a prospective IVC filter registry.
A novel likely pathogenic variant in the H1-4 gene c.139G > C p.(Ala47Pro) associated with Rahman syndrome: a clinical report
Authors: González-Tarancón R. , Salvador-Rupérez E. , Goñi-Ros N. , Álvarez S. Izquierdo , Sánchez-Navarro I. , García M. Martínez , Segura J. L. Peña , Lafuente A. López
Published: March 2022

Background

Rahman syndrome (RMNS) is a rare genetic disorder inherited in an autosomal dominant manner caused by a de novo mutation in H1-4 gene. Since there are few cases described in the literature, the prevalence of the syndrome is unknown. RMNS should be suspected in individuals presenting mild to severe intellectual disability associated with behavioural problems.

Case presentation

A novel variant in the H1-4 gene: c.139G > C p.(Ala47Pro), classified as likely pathogenic, was identified in a patient with a phenotype compatible with RMNS. Clubfoot and obesity were described in our patient and should be considered in future reviews of the disease.

Conclusions

This case is added to the reduced number of publications previously reported regarding RMNS and contributes to understanding the genetic characteristics, clinical features and diagnosis of this syndrome.
Land snails of Bozcaada island, Turkey with anatomical and distributional notes for several species
Authors: Örstan Aydin , Ovalis Panayotis
Published: March 2022

A survey of the land snails of Bozcaada, a small island in the Aegean Sea near the northwest coast of Turkey, found 30 species. Mediterranea depressa (Sterki) was recorded for the first time in Turkey. Five species in the family Enidae were found on the island; the most unexpected one was Chondrus tournefortianus (Férussac) outside of its previously known range. The conchological and anatomical characteristics of the specimens identified as Meijeriella cf. raynevaliana (Bourguignat) are given and the associated taxonomic issues are briefly discussed. Anatomies of Monacha claustralis (Rossmässler), Orculella critica (Pfeiffer) and Oxychilus cyprius (Pfeiffer) are also presented. As expected, the land snail faunas of Bozcaada, the nearby islands of Gökçeada and Limnos and the mainland Turkey share some species. Some of the differences in the species compositions of these areas may be explained as results of human-mediated introductions.
First record of aquatic behaviour in an endemic terrestrial snail Indrella ampulla (Benson, 1850) (Gastropoda: Helicarionoidea: Ariophantidae)
Authors: Leyland Ashwin , Rao Nisha Menzies , Shilpe Romit , Menzies Rohan K.
Published: March 2022

Indrella ampulla (Benson) is a highly endemic species found in the Western Ghats of India which has been regarded as a terrestrial or arboreal snail since its initial description. We report the first evidence of I. ampulla exhibiting the ability to survive and move underwater. This record could change our understanding of the species and will be beneficial to conservation and research on the species which are less likely to be restricted by water barriers than previously thought.
Frequency of neuropathic pain and its effects on rehabilitation outcomes, balance function and quality of life among people with traumatic spinal cord injury
Authors: Khan Muhammad Idrees , Arsh Aatik , Ali Ikram , Afridi Aman Khan
Published: March 2022

Background & Objectives: Traumatic Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that results in life long disability. Impairments associated with traumatic SCI such as sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunctions lead to an array of secondary SCI-specific complications. Neuropathic pain is one of the most common medical complications of traumatic SCI which significantly affects motor function and activities of daily living (ADL) in people with traumatic SCI. Neuropathic pain is one of the main factors for dependency, decreased quality of life (QOL), poor rehabilitation outcomes, and depression in traumatic SCI individuals. The main aim of the current study was to determine the frequency of neuropathic pain and its effects on rehabilitation outcomes, balance function, and QOL in people with traumatic SCI.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out at PCP from March to August 2020. Overall, 123 participants were added to the study using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Information was collected using an adapted, validated questionnaire. Both male and female traumatic SCI patients with age between 18-60 years who received at least two weeks of rehabilitation, 42 days after diagnosis of traumatic SCI were included in current study while patients with Acute SCI, SCI patients with any other condition which can affect neuropathic pain such as traumatic brain injury, diabetic neuropathy, amputation, etc. and progressive neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Guillain barre syndromes were excluded. Patients who have received at least two weeks of rehabilitation, 42 days after diagnosis of traumatic SCI. Patients with traumatic SCI.

Results: Overall, 123 traumatic SCI patients were included in the study. The majority of the (n=101, 82%) participants were male and 83 (67.5%) were from urban areas. Eighty-Seven (70.73%) participants had neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain was significantly associated (P-value <0.005) with rehabilitation outcomes, balance function, and quality of life.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that more than two-third of SCI patients suffer from neuropathic pain. Moreover, neuropathic pain is significantly associated with rehabilitation outcomes, balance function, and quality of life.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4681

How to cite this:Khan MI, Arsh A, Ali I, Afridi AK. Frequency of neuropathic pain and its effects on rehabilitation outcomes, balance function and quality of life among people with traumatic spinal cord injury. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4681

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Spectrum of HRCT Scan Chest Findings in COVID-19 Patients as Categorized by Modified CO-RADS Classification
Authors: Tabassum Sumera , Haider Shahbaz , Shaukat Shaista
Published: March 2022

Objectives: The Dutch Radiological Society developed CO-RADS classification, a system for the classification of CT scan chest findings among suspected COVID-19 patients. However due to some important issues it was modified by authors and then applied on our study population. The objective was to study the spectrum of lungs involvement as concluded by HRCT scan chest finding and classifying it using the “Modified CO-RADS classification”

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted jointly by the departments of Medicine and Radiology, JPMC from January 16, 2021 to April 30, 2021. This study includes suspected cases of COVID-19 patients aged between 18-80 years who came for HRCT chest. Their data variables were recorded. HRCT findings were classified using “Modified CO-RADS classification”. Patients’ results of real time PCR for COVID-19 were also followed.

Results: A total of 78 patients presented to the study department during this study period. Of them 85.8% were male (n=67) and 14.2% were female (n=11). Out of the 78 patients, 58 were tested positive for COVID-19 on first RT-PCR on follow up. Among positive two patients (3.4%) had CO-RADS-1, 4 patients (7%) had CO-RADS-2, 19 patients (32.75%) had CO-RADS-3, 21 patients (36.2%) had CO-RADS-4 while 12 patients (20.7%) had CO-RADS-5 category. (CO-RAD-6 category was omitted). Of the patient who had negative results on RT-PCR, five patients had CO-RADS-4 while three patients had CO-RADS-5. On repeat RT-PCR all (8/8) patients of category IV and V proved Covid-19 positive.

Conclusion: HRCT scan chest can be used for quicker diagnosis of COVID-19 patients in patients with respiratory complaints in whom prompt diagnosis is required and when RT-PCR investigation process would be taking prolonged time due to over burden during pandemic situation. “CO-RADS classification after modification” proved more effective communicative tool to label and understand the severity of lung involvement in Covid-19 disease.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4687

How to cite this:Tabassum S, Haider S, Shaukat S. Spectrum of HRCT Scan Chest Findings in COVID-19 Patients as Categorized by Modified CO-RADS Classification. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4687

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Seasonal influenza vaccine awareness and factors affecting vaccination in Turkish Society
Authors: Goktas Olgun , Can Fatma Ezgi , Yakar Burkay , Ercan Ilker , Akalın Emin Halis
Published: March 2022

Objective: Influenza vaccine reduces the burden of seasonal influenza and related complications. Potential vaccination barriers need to be identified to raise awareness and increase acceptance. We aimed to investigate the rates of seasonal influenza vaccination and the knowledge, opinions, and behaviours prevalent in Turkish society.
Methods: The study among seven regions in Turkey was conducted from October-November 2018 in 28 family health centres, using a cross-sectional, descriptive design. The knowledge, opinions, and behaviours of participants regarding the influenza vaccine were obtained by family physicians through face-to-face interviews with participants.
Results: A total of 3,492 people aged 10-97 years age range (median: 50 years) were included in the study. Over half of the participants (59.9%, n = 2093) were female. It was found that the percentage of participants who never received the influenza vaccine was 78.4%; only 13.4% were occasionally vaccinated, and 8.1% received regular annual vaccination. Influenza vaccination rates were higher in married people (p < 0.001), women (p = 0.005), patients with chronic lung and cardiovascular disease (p < 0.001), those over 65 years /nursing home residents (p < 0.001). Awareness of the vaccine’s benefit was higher in the group at high risk of influenza (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The rate of regular vaccination against influenza every year was insufficient, at 8.1%. Individuals’ insensitivity, insufficient knowledge, and attitudes toward influenza vaccination is a serious health problem for Turkish society. Barriers to influenza vaccination can be reduced by good communication between family physicians and their patients.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4915
How to cite this:Goktas O, Can FE, Yakar B, Ercan I, Akalin EH. Seasonal influenza vaccine awareness and factors affecting vaccination in Turkish Society. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4915
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.