bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of metalwork failure and nonunion after hindfoot Charcot reconstruction
Authors: Najefi Ali-Asgar , Zaidi Razi , Chan Oliver , Hester Thomas , Kavarthapu Venu
Published: May 2022

Aims

Surgical reconstruction of deformed Charcot feet carries a high risk of nonunion, metalwork failure, and deformity recurrence. The primary aim of this study was to identify the factors contributing to these complications following hindfoot Charcot reconstructions.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent hindfoot Charcot reconstruction with an intramedullary nail between January 2007 and December 2019 in our unit. Patient demographic details, comorbidities, weightbearing status, and postoperative complications were noted. Metalwork breakage, nonunion, deformity recurrence, concurrent midfoot reconstruction, and the measurements related to intramedullary nail were also recorded.

Results

There were 70 patients with mean follow-up of 54 months (SD 26). Overall, 51 patients (72%) and 52 patients (74%) were fully weightbearing at one year postoperatively and at final follow-up, respectively. The overall hindfoot union rate was 83% (58/70 patients). Age, BMI, glycated haemoglobin, and prior revascularization did not affect union. The ratio of nail diameter and isthmus was greater in the united compared to the nonunited group (0.90 (SD 0.06) and 0.86 (SD 0.09), respectively; p = 0.034). In those with a supplementary hindfoot compression screw, there was a 95% union rate (19/20 patients), compared to 78% in those without screws (39/50 patients; p = 0.038). All patients with a miss-a-nail hindfoot compression screw went on to union. Hindfoot metalwork failure was seen in 13 patients (19%). An intact medial malleolus was found more frequently in those with intact metalwork ((77% (44/57 patients) vs 54% (7/13 patients); p = 0.022) and in those with union ((76% (44/58 patients) vs 50% (6/12 patients); p = 0.018). Broken metalwork occurred more frequently in patients with nonunions (69% (9/13 patients) vs 9% (5/57 patients); p < 0.001) and midfoot deformity recurrence (69% (9/13 patients) vs 9% (5/57 patients); p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Rates of hindfoot union and intact metalwork were noted in over 80% of patients. Union after hindfoot reconstruction occurs more frequently with an isthmic fit of the intramedullary nail and supplementary hindfoot screws. An intact medial malleolus is protective against nonunion and hindfoot metalwork failure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(6):703–708.
Pemilihan Metode Predictive Analytics dengan Machine Learning untuk Analisis dan Strategi Peningkatan Kualitas Kredit Perbankan
Authors: Kurniawan Aznovri , Rifa'i Ahmad , Nafis Moch Abdillah , Sefrida Nimas , Patria Harry
Published: May 2022

As a factor that determines bank’s profitability, loan quality, that is categorized based on debtor’s collectability classification, always gets attention and become main analysis topic in banking industry. Through recent development of statistics and data science, especially in predictive analytics using machine learning techniques, more comprehensive analysis and prediction in loan quality can be conducted. This research is intended to give example on application of predictive analytics using machine learning technique for analysis and strategy recommendation in increasing bank’s loan quality improvement. In this research, some machine learning classification methods are compared to conduct predictive analytics in loan quality with big data size (big data analytics). Computation result of different methods are compared and summarized, resulted in recommendation on most appropriate method to achieve this research objective. This research concluded that for imbalanced big data size such as bank’s loan collectability, Tree Ensemble method, further development of Decision Tree method that is commonly used in machine learning, is one of appropriate methods to get satisfactory result in this research. Imbalanced data that can result in false positive may be overcame by oversampling Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE). This research scope is limited to analysis and prediction of debtor’s collectability for the next several months, combined with analysis and strategy recommendations based on product type, gender, and debtor’s occupation. Further predictive analytics for the next several years by including external factors, such as economic growth, is not covered in this research and possible to be conducted. As machine learning application in Indonesian banking industry analysis is still in early phase, this research is expected to become one of reference in application of predictive analytics using machine learning in banking industry. 

Keywords: predictive analytics; machine learning; loan collectability; loan quality
Perbandingan K-Nearest Neighbor dan Random Forest dengan Seleksi Fitur Information Gain untuk Klasifikasi Lama Studi Mahasiswa
Authors: Hasan Isran K , Resmawan Resmawan , Ibrahim Jefriyanto
Published: May 2022

Accreditation is a quality and feasibility assessment form in carrying out higher education. One of the factors that affect accreditation is the length of student study. In this study, the length of student study is classified by using the best attributes resulting from selecting information gain features. In optimizing the classification algorithm, we process the data by converting the original data into data that is ready to be mined. The next step is dividing the data into training and testing data so that the classification algorithm can be applied. This study gives the best four attributes, with K-nearest neighbor (K-NN) classification of 86.67% and random forest classification of 100%.

Keywords: length of study; information gain; K-nearest neighbor; random forest
The impact of COVID-19 on major trauma (ISS>15) in London, across its four Level 1 centres
Authors: Bhattacharya R , Pearse M , Bates P , Tahmassebi R , El-Daly I , Jeyaseelan L , Sedgwick P , Trompeter A ,   On behalf of London Major Trauma Collaborative
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to reconfiguration of healthcare resources to manage increased demand for acute hospital beds and intensive care places. Concerns were raised regarding continuing provision of critical care for non-COVID patients during the pandemic. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients admitted with major trauma (Injury Severity Score >15) across the four Level 1 trauma centres in London.

Methods

Data were collected from all four major trauma centres (MTCs) in London using the Trauma Audit and Research Network database and from local databases at each centre. A 2-month period from 5 March to 5 May 2020 was selected and the same period during 2019 was used to compare changes due to the pandemic.

Results

There was a 31% decrease in overall number of patients presenting to the four MTCs during the COVID-19 period compared with 2019. There was no difference in patient demographics or mechanism of injury between the two periods. Sports-related injuries and proportion of self-presentation to hospital were reduced slightly during the pandemic, although the differences were not statistically significant. The mortality rate and association between mortality and injury severity were similar. Proportion of patients requiring intensive care unit facilities also did not change.

Conclusion

Despite diversion of critical care resources to deal with COVID-related admissions, we did not observe a change in mortality rate or proportion of severely injured patients requiring critical care. Our results suggest London MTCs were able to provide their usual standard of care for critically injured major trauma (Injury Severity Score >15) patients during the pandemic.
Robotic repair of post-oesophagectomy hiatal hernia
Authors: Bigolin AV , Fonseca MK , Grossi JVM , Iaroseski J , Cavazzola LT
Published: May 2022

Diaphragmatic hiatal hernia is a potential complication of oesophagectomy in cancer patients. Over the past decades, laparoscopy has become the preferred approach to repairing this condition due to the reduced morbidity, faster recovery and shorter hospital stay when compared with traditional open surgery. The development of robotic technology has added to the benefits of minimally invasive approaches, offering potential technical advantages and overcoming some limitations of traditional laparoscopic techniques when performing complex procedures. We present the first report of a robotic post-oesophagectomy hiatal hernia repair.
An unusual presentation of penile Mondor’s disease in an HIV-positive patient
Authors: Chakra MA , Roux S , Peyromaure M , Delongchamps NB , Bailly H , Duquesne I
Published: May 2022

Penile Mondor’s disease (PMD), or thrombosis of the dorsal vein, is an under-reported benign condition. Its aetiology is poorly understood. Clinically, it presents as a palpable cord in the dorsal vein of the penis, with pain or local discomfort, especially during erection. PMD may be diagnosed based on the medical history and physical examination. Management of the condition is conservative, with practitioners opting for various strategies including sexual/masturbatory abstinence, localised anticoagulant topical therapy and oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In many cases, PMD will resolve within 4–8 weeks of presentation. Thrombectomy and resection of the superficial penile vein are applied surgically in patients refractory to the medical treatment. We describe the case of a 33-year-old patient known to have HIV who presented for severe painful dorsal induration and swelling of the proximal third of the penis. The patient had no recent history of sexual intercourse, penile trauma or other well-known risk factors for PMD. The physical examination was unequivocal, so a Doppler ultrasound was performed. A diagnosis of PMD was made and conservative treatment was prescribed. During a follow-up visit after 6 weeks, the patient had no symptoms and physical examination did not reveal anything pathological.
The impact of multidisciplinary team decision-making in locally advanced and recurrent rectal cancer
Authors: Harji D P , Houston F , Cutforth I , Hawthornthwaite E , McKigney N , Sharpe A , Coyne P , Griffiths B
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Appropriate patient selection within the context of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) is key to good clinical outcomes. The current evidence base for factors that guide the decision-making process in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) and locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) is limited to anatomical factors.

Methods

A registry-based, prospective cohort study was undertaken of patients referred to our specialist MDT between 2015 and 2019. Data were collected on patients and disease characteristics including performance status, Charlson Comorbidity Index, the English Index of Multiple Deprivation quintiles and MDT treatment decision. Curative treatment was defined as neoadjuvant treatment and surgical resection that would achieve a R0 resection, and/or complete treatment of distant metastatic disease. Palliative treatment was defined as non-surgical treatment.

Results

In total, 325 patients were identified; 72.7% of patients with LARC and 63.6% of patients with LRRC were offered treatment with curative intent (p = 0.08). Patients with poor performance status (PS > 2; p < 0.001), severe comorbidity (p < 0.001), socio-economic deprivation (p = 0.004), a positive predictive circumferential resection margin (p = 0.005) and metastatic disease (p < 0.001) were associated with palliative treatment. Overall survival in the curative cohort was 49 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 32.4–65.5) compared with 12 months (95% CI 9.1–14.9) in the palliative cohort (p < 0.001). The presence of metastatic disease was identified as a prognostic factor for patients undergoing curative treatment (p = 0.05). The only prognostic factor identified in patients treated palliatively was performance status (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study identifies a number of preoperative, prognostic factors that affect MDT decision-making and overall survival.
Professional Responsibility in the Field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Its Definition, Application, and Impacts
Authors: Luckasson Ruth , Tassé Marc J. , Schalock Robert L.
Published: May 2022

This article addresses the need to clearly understand professional responsibility and the critical role it plays in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), in shaping professions for the better, and in enhancing the functioning of society for the benefit of all. Understanding professional responsibility is especially timely during the current transformation that is occurring in the field of IDD. To that end, the article discusses what is a profession, who is a professional, and what is professional responsibility. Using a logic model framework, the article describes the components of professional responsibility that include its building blocks such as respect for the person, professional ethics and standards, critical thinking skills, and clinical judgment; its use of nine professional practices including empowerment, evidence-based practices, individualized supports, and person-centered outcome evaluation; its outcomes in terms of mutual trust, the improved effectiveness of clinical functions, and professional accountability; and its impacts regarding individual benefit, professional integrity, and societal enhancement.
The Benefits of Active, Person-Centered Job Placement: Results From Service Providers Undergoing Organizational Transformation Away From Sheltered Employment
Authors: Lyons Oliver , Timmons Jaimie , Hall Allison , Enein-Donovan Lara , Kamau Esther
Published: May 2022

Recent national and state-level policy changes have created an imperative for service providers to transform from sheltered work to competitive integrated employment. The current study sought to understand the impact of participation in a 1-year, comprehensive technical assistance pilot designed to support service providers to transform away from sheltered workshops towards encouraging competitive integrated employment and delivering job development supports. Findings showed competitive integrated employment is attainable if given the appropriate organizational emphasis and when effective job development practices are implemented to a strategically identified group. Implications highlight the values of slowly preparing individuals for competitive integrated employment; facilitating an active, person-centered job placement process; engaging key stakeholders in job development; and focusing on individual job placement in the context of organizational transformation.
Multi-parameter measurement of a multi-point high-frequency vibration signal in an OFDR system
Authors: Song Muping , Chen Ge , Cui Enxue , Yuxin Zhang
Published: May 2022

The phase cross-correlation function of an optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR) system is proposed to detect a multi-point vibration event, which is verified in detail by theoretical simulation and experiment. An OFDR system based on a non-tunable laser source with digital sweep frequency is developed. It is verified experimentally that the location and frequency resolution of multi-point high-frequency vibration can be detected by analyzing the phase cross-correlation function of the sensing signal. High-frequency signals of 50 kHz and 20 kHz are located and separated on the 8 km optical fiber. The frequency resolution is 1.26 kHz, and the minimum spatial error is 11.5 m.
Diel changes of the optical backscattering coefficient of oceanic particulate matter determined from diel changes in apparent optical properties: a case study in the Mediterranean Sea (BOUSSOLE site)
Authors: Kheireddine Malika , Antoine David , Vellucci Vincenzo , Gentili Bernard
Published: May 2022

Using in situ measurements of radiometric quantities and of the optical backscattering coefficient of particulate matter (

b

bp

) at an oceanic site, we show that diel cycles of

b

bp

are large enough to generate measurable diel variability of the ocean reflectance. This means that biogeochemical quantities such as net phytoplankton primary production, which are derivable from the diel

b

bp

signal, can be potentially derived also from the diel variability of ocean color radiometry (OCR). This is a promising avenue for basin-scale quantification of such quantities because OCR is now performed from geostationary platforms that enable quantification of diel changes in the ocean reflectance over large ocean expanses. To assess the feasibility of this inversion, we applied three numerical inversion algorithms to derive

b

bp

from measured reflectance data. The uncertainty in deriving

b

bp

transfers to the retrieval of its diel cycle, making the performance of the inversion better in the green part of the spectrum (555 nm), with correlation coefficients

>

0.75

and a variability of 40% between the observed and derived

b

bp

diel changes. While the results are encouraging, they also emphasize the inherent limitation of current inversion algorithms in deriving diel changes of

b

bp

, which essentially stems from the empirical parameterizations that such algorithms include.
Polarimetric multiple scattering LiDAR model based on Poisson distribution
Authors: Roy Gilles , Tremblay Grégoire
Published: May 2022

Multiple
scattering
is always present in LiDAR measurements. It is one of the major causes
of LiDAR signal depolarization when detecting backscattering from
water clouds. For a given probing wavelength, the LiDAR signal is a
function of the aerosol size distribution, cloud range, and optical
depth, and of the LiDAR field of view (FoV). We present a relatively
simple polarimetric multiple scattering model. It uses Poisson
statistics to determine the photons’ scattering order distribution at
a given optical depth and takes into account the aerosol’s properties
as well as the characteristics of the LiDAR. The results are compared
with Monte Carlo simulations performed on two types of cumulus clouds
and on a moderate water fog. Good agreement is demonstrated for the
total LiDAR signal and the depolarization parameter for a FoV of
1 mrad and a large FoV of 12 mrad.
Stabilizing the carrier–envelope phase of an amplified Ti:sapphire laser pulse to a noise level of sub-100  mrad
Authors: Nishimiya Kaito , Noda Takuma , Suda Akira
Published: May 2022

To generate an intense femtosecond pulse with an energy of several mJ or more, the pulse must be sufficiently stretched and compressed using grating-based optics in a chirped pulse amplification system. However, the stability of the carrier–envelope phase (CEP) is readily degraded by movement of the diffraction gratings due to vibration caused by pump lasers and other equipment. By suppressing the vibration and acoustic waves, we reduced the CEP noise to much less than 100 mrad (rms). With feedback control using a wedge pair with a single shot

f

-

2

f

interferometer (1 ms integration time), we were able to stabilize the CEP, achieving a CEP noise of 58 mrad (rms) at a pulse energy of 0.5 mJ and 99 mrad (rms) at a pulse energy of 7 mJ and a repetition rate of 1 kHz. We also analyzed the effects of vibration on the pulse stretcher and compressor using a geometrical optics approach and found that roof mirrors were the most influential.
High temperature superradiant phase transition in quantum structures with a complex network interface
Authors: Bazhenov A. Yu. , Nikitina M. , Alodjants A. P.
Published: May 2022

In the present work we propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, quantum material concept, which enables superstrong and/or ultrastrong interaction of two-level systems with the photonic field in a complex network. Within the mean field approximation we examine phase transition to superradiance that results in two excitation (polariton) branches and is accompanied by the appearance of non-zero macroscopic polarization of two-level systems. We characterize the statistical properties of networks by the first, 〈k〉, and second normalized, ζ ≡ 〈k2〉/〈k〉, moments for node degree distribution. We have shown that the Rabi frequency is essentially enhanced due to the topology of the network within the anomalous domain where 〈k〉 and ζ sufficiently grow. The multichannel (multimode) structure of matter–field interaction leads superstrong coupling that provides primary behavior of the high temperature phase transition. The results obtained pave the way for the design of new photonic and polaritonic circuits, quantum networks for efficient processing quantum information at high (room) temperatures.
Accelerating a spatially varying aberration correction of holographic displays with low-rank approximation
Authors: Nam Seung-Woo , Kim Dongyeon , Lee Byoungho
Published: May 2022

Correction of spatially varying aberrations in holographic displays often requires intractable computational loads. In this Letter, we introduce a low-rank approximation method that decomposes sub-holograms into a small number of modes, thereby reformulating the computer-generated hologram calculation into a summation of a few convolutions. The low-rank approximation is carried out with two different algorithms: the Karhunen–Loeve transform as the optimum solution with respect to the mean-squared error criterion and a novel, to the best of our knowledge, optimization method to provide uniform image quality over the entire field of view. The proposed method is two orders of magnitude faster than the conventional point-wise integration method in our experimental setup, with comparable image quality.
Ein integriertes Konzept für nachhaltige hybride Arbeit – Erkenntnisse und Handlungsempfehlungen aus einem Transformationsprojekt
Authors: Kreuzer Thomas , Lanzl Julia , Römmelt Jörg , Schoch Manfred , Wenninger Simon
Published: May 2022

Große gesellschaftliche Herausforderungen wie die COVID-19-Pandemie und der globale Klimawandel haben die Art und Weise wie Menschen zusammenarbeiten und über Arbeit nachdenken für immer verändert. Aber was bedeutet das konkret für Organisationen? Genau diese Frage wird in diesem Artikel anhand einer Fallstudie über das Transformationsprojekt eines deutschen Forschungsinstituts hin zu nachhaltiger hybrider Arbeit untersucht. Der analysierte Fall ist besonders interessant, weil sich das Forschungsinstitut zusätzlich der Herausforderung eines anstehenden Umzugs noch während der COVID-19-Pandemie gegenübersah. Der Artikel zielt darauf ab, Erfahrungen und Handlungsempfehlungen für eine adäquate Gestaltung der Rahmenbedingungen für nachhaltige hybride Arbeit in allen Phasen der Transformation darzustellen. Erstens wird ein konkretes New-Work-Konzept entlang mehrerer Dimensionen für nachhaltige hybride Arbeit präsentiert, das durch Erkenntnisse in der Literatur und durch Erfahrungen aus deren praktischer Anwendung entwickelt wurde. Zweitens werden Einblicke in die Umsetzung gegeben, dabei das Zusammenspiel mehrerer interdisziplinärer Teams aufgezeigt und Good Practices auf dem Weg zu nachhaltiger hybrider Arbeit abgeleitet. Der Beitrag hebt sich von bisherigen Erkenntnissen ab, da er hybride Arbeit und Nachhaltigkeit vereint und Wege der integrierten, interdisziplinären Umsetzung aufzeigt. So geben unsere Ergebnisse anderen New-Work-Forschenden Grundlage und Struktur, um das Konzept nachhaltige hybride Arbeit und der Entwicklung und Messung ihrer Erfolgsfaktoren tiefergehend zu untersuchen. Praktiker können das Konzept und die Good Practices als Blaupause für die eigene Transformation hin zu nachhaltiger hybrider Arbeit verwenden und davon ausgehend organisationsindividuelle Anpassungen vornehmen.
Recommendations for improving statistical inference in population genomics
Authors: Johri Parul , Aquadro Charles F. , Beaumont Mark , Charlesworth Brian , Excoffier Laurent , Eyre-Walker Adam , Keightley Peter D. , Lynch Michael , McVean Gil , Payseur Bret A. , Pfeifer Susanne P. , Stephan Wolfgang , Jensen Jeffrey D.
Published: May 2022

The field of population genomics has grown rapidly in response to the recent advent of affordable, large-scale sequencing technologies. As opposed to the situation during the majority of the 20th century, in which the development of theoretical and statistical population genetic insights outpaced the generation of data to which they could be applied, genomic data are now being produced at a far greater rate than they can be meaningfully analyzed and interpreted. With this wealth of data has come a tendency to focus on fitting specific (and often rather idiosyncratic) models to data, at the expense of a careful exploration of the range of possible underlying evolutionary processes. For example, the approach of directly investigating models of adaptive evolution in each newly sequenced population or species often neglects the fact that a thorough characterization of ubiquitous nonadaptive processes is a prerequisite for accurate inference. We here describe the perils of these tendencies, present our consensus views on current best practices in population genomic data analysis, and highlight areas of statistical inference and theory that are in need of further attention. Thereby, we argue for the importance of defining a biologically relevant baseline model tuned to the details of each new analysis, of skepticism and scrutiny in interpreting model fitting results, and of carefully defining addressable hypotheses and underlying uncertainties.
A spectrum of free software tools for processing the VCF variant call format: vcflib, bio-vcf, cyvcf2, hts-nim and slivar
Authors: Garrison Erik , Kronenberg Zev N. , Dawson Eric T. , Pedersen Brent S. , Prins Pjotr
Published: May 2022

Since its introduction in 2011 the variant call format (VCF) has been widely adopted for processing DNA and RNA variants in practically all population studies—as well as in somatic and germline mutation studies. The VCF format can represent single nucleotide variants, multi-nucleotide variants, insertions and deletions, and simple structural variants called and anchored against a reference genome.

Here we present a spectrum of over 125 useful, complimentary free and open source software tools and libraries, we wrote and made available through the multiple vcflib, bio-vcf, cyvcf2, hts-nim and slivar projects. These tools are applied for comparison, filtering, normalisation, smoothing and annotation of VCF, as well as output of statistics, visualisation, and transformations of files variants. These tools run everyday in critical biomedical pipelines and countless shell scripts. Our tools are part of the wider bioinformatics ecosystem and we highlight best practices.

We shortly discuss the design of VCF, lessons learnt, and how we can address more complex variation through pangenome graph formats, variation that can not easily be represented by the VCF format.
Mutational analysis of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern reveals key tradeoffs between receptor affinity and antibody escape
Authors: Makowski Emily K. , Schardt John S. , Smith Matthew D. , Tessier Peter M.
Published: May 2022

SARS-CoV-2 variants with enhanced transmissibility represent a serious threat to global health. Here we report machine learning models that can predict the impact of receptor-binding domain (RBD) mutations on receptor (ACE2) affinity, which is linked to infectivity, and escape from human serum antibodies, which is linked to viral neutralization. Importantly, the models predict many of the known impacts of RBD mutations in current and former Variants of Concern on receptor affinity and antibody escape as well as novel sets of mutations that strongly modulate both properties. Moreover, these models reveal key opposing impacts of RBD mutations on transmissibility, as many sets of RBD mutations predicted to increase antibody escape are also predicted to reduce receptor affinity and vice versa. These models, when used in concert, capture the complex impacts of SARS-CoV-2 mutations on properties linked to transmissibility and are expected to improve the development of next-generation vaccines and biotherapeutics.
Understanding pathogen–host interplay by expression profiles of lncRNA and mRNA in the liver of Echinococcus multilocularis-infected mice
Authors: Nian Xiaofeng , Li Li , Ma Xusheng , Li Xiurong , Li Wenhui , Zhang Nianzhang , Ohiolei John Asekhaen , Li Le , Dai Guodong , Liu Yanhong , Yan Hongbin , Fu Baoquan , Xiao Sa , Jia Wanzhong
Published: May 2022

Almost allEchinococcus multilocularis(Em) infections occur in the liver of the intermediate host, causing a lethal zoonotic helminthic disease, alveolar echinococcosis (AE). However, the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression profiles of the host and the potential regulatory function of lncRNA duringEminfection are poorly understood. In this study, the profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs in the liver of mice at different time points afterEminfection were explored by microarray. Thirty-one differentially expressed mRNAs (DEMs) and 68 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) were found continuously dysregulated. These DEMs were notably enriched in “antigen processing and presentation”, “Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation” and “Th17 cell differentiation” pathways. The potential predicted function of DELs revealed that most DELs might influence Th17 cell differentiation and TGF-β/Smad pathway of host bytrans-regulating SMAD3, STAT1, and early growth response (EGR) genes. At 30 days post-infection (dpi), up-regulated DEMs were enriched in Toll-like and RIG-I-like receptor signaling pathways, which were validated by qRT-PCR, Western blotting and downstream cytokines detection. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis and serum levels of the corresponding cytokines confirmed the changes in cell-mediated immunity in host duringEminfection that showed Th1 and Th17-type CD4+T-cells were predominant at the early infection stage whereas Th2-type CD4+T-cells were significantly higher at the middle/late stage. Collectively, our study revealed the potential regulatory functions of lncRNAs in modulating host Th cell subsets and provide novel clues in understanding the influence ofEminfection on host innate and adaptive immune response.
The efficiency and safety of alendronate versus teriparatide for treatment glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: A meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Zhi-Ming , Zhang Min , Zong Yuan , Zhang Ding , Shen Zhu-Bin , Guan Xiao-Qing , Yin Fei
Published: May 2022

Background

Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) is the most common secondary osteoporosis, alendronate (ALE) and teriparatide (TPTD) are widely used in the treatment of GIOP. However, which of these two drugs has a better curative effect needs the support of evidence-based medicine.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for randomized controlled trials of ALE and TPTD in the treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis until February 2022. These patients included in the study took glucocorticoid doses greater than 7.5 mg/d for more than 3 months before treatment with ALE and TPTD. The risk ratio (RR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) are used as the influence index of discontinuous data, and the standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% CI are used as the influence index of continuous data.

Results

A total of 4102 patients were enrolled in all 5 studies that met the admission criteria. We found that compared with ALE, TPTD could reduce the rate of new vertebral fracture (RR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.05–0.34, P<0.00001). TPTD increased LS bone mineral density (BMD) (0.53, 95% CI 0.42–0.64, P<0.00001), TH BMD (0.17, 95% CI 0.05–0.28, P = 0.004) and FN BMD (0.17, 95% CI 0.05–0.29, P = 0.006) compared to ALE. However, there was no significant difference in the incidence of non-vertebral fracture and adverse events between the two groups.

Conclusions

Compared with ALE, TPTD is an effective drug to reduce vertebral fracture risk in patients with GIOP. Furthermore, long-term use of TPTD can increase the bone mineral density of LS, FN, and TH.
Lipocalin-2 and insulin as new biomarkers of alopecia areata
Authors: Waśkiel-Burnat Anna , Niemczyk Anna , Chmielińska Paulina , Muszel Marta , Zaremba Michał , Rakowska Adriana , Olszewska Małgorzata , Rudnicka Lidia
Published: May 2022

Lipocalin-2 and visfatin are proinflammatory adipokines involved in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. Their role has been described in numerous inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Recently, an increased prevalence of metabolic abnormalities has been reported in patients with alopecia areata. The aim of the study is to determine the serum levels of lipocalin-2 and visfatin in patients with alopecia areata in comparison with healthy controls. Moreover, the serum levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol), triglycerides, fasting glucose, insulin, c-peptide, and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were evaluated. Fifty-two patients with alopecia areata and 17 control subjects were enrolled in the study. The serum levels of lipocalin-2 [mean ± standard deviation, SD: 224.55 ± 53.58 ng/ml vs. 188.64 ± 44.75, p = 0.01], insulin [median (interquartile range, IQR): 6.85 (4.7–9.8) μIU/ml vs. 4.5 (3.5–6.6), p<0.05], c-peptide [median (IQR): 1.63 (1.23–2.36) ng/ml vs. 1.37 (1.1–1.58), p<0.05)], and HOMA-IR [median (IQR): 1.44 (0.98–2.15) vs. 0.92 (0.79–1.44), p<0.05) were significantly higher in patients with alopecia areata compared to the controls. The serum concentration of insulin and HOMA-IR correlated with the number of hair loss episodes (r = 0.300, p<0.05 and r = 0.322, p<0.05, respectively). Moreover, a positive correlation occurred between insulin, HOMA-IR, c-peptide and BMI (r = 0.436, p <0.05; r = 0.384, p<0.05 and r = 0.450, p<0.05, respectively). In conclusion, lipocalin-2 and insulin may serve as biomarkers for alopecia areata. Further studies are needed to evaluate the role of insulin as a prognostic factor in alopecia areata.
Relationship between sunlight and range use of commercial free-range hens in Australia
Authors: Rana Md Sohel , Lee Caroline , Lea Jim M. , Campbell Dana L. M.
Published: May 2022

In Australia, summer brings intense, bright sunlight with high ultraviolet (UV) radiation and hot temperatures, which might impact free-range hens’ ranging outside. To determine how range use was correlated with different sunlight variables and weather factors, a study was carried out on three commercial free-range layer farms during the summer/autumn period (December-May) across diverse regions of Australia in Tasmania (TAS), Queensland (QLD), and Western Australia (WA). Hens’ range distribution was determined by counting the number of hens in the direct sunlight (‘sun’) or ‘cloud’ and shaded areas (‘sun-shade’ or ‘cloud-shade’, in sunny or cloudy conditions, respectively) using image snapshots taken at 30 min intervals from video recordings of a portion of one shed comprising 20,000–30,000 hens on each farm during the production phase of the laying cycle. The solar radiation spectrum [UV radiation (UVAB) (288–432 nm), photosynthetically active radiation (PAR; visible light) (400–700 nm), and total solar radiation (TSR) (285 nm-3000 nm)] and weather data (ambient temperature and relative humidity) were recorded through an on-site weather station. Data were analysed separately due to discrepancies between the farms’ layouts. The effects of time of day and months on range use were analysed using General Linear Models in JMP® 16.0 and the relationship of sunlight and weather variables with hens’ distribution in ‘sun’/’sun-shade’ and ‘cloud’/’cloud-shade’ in sunny and cloudy conditions respectively was determined by fitting linear ridge regression models using the ‘lmridge’ package in R. Overall, the time of day and month had significant effects on hens’ distribution on the range (all p < 0.0001). Hens’ range occupancy in the ‘sun’ decreased during the midday period with gradual increases in the late afternoon to evening, and the opposite pattern in the ‘sun-shade’. A linear increase in the number of hens on the range over the months indicated the seasonal effects on hen ranging patterns. Temperature, UVAB and PAR were the most important factors for discouraging hens’ range use in the ‘sun’ suggesting free-range systems in Australia should be designed to account for the extreme sunlight using adequate shade for optimum ranging across summer.
Seeking antiviral drugs to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 RNA dependent RNA polymerase: A molecular docking analysis
Authors: Khater Ibrahim , Nassar Aaya
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 outbreak associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) raised health concerns across the globe and has been considered highly transmissible between people. In attempts for finding therapeutic treatment for the new disease, this work has focused on examining the polymerase inhibitors against the SARS-CoV-2 nsp12 and co-factors nsp8 and nsp7. Several polymerase inhibitors were examined against PDB ID: 6M71 using computational analysis evaluating the ligand’s binding affinity to replicating groove to the active site. The findings of this analysis showed Cytarabine of -5.65 Kcal/mol with the highest binding probability (70%) to replicating groove of 6M71. The complex stability was then examined over 19 ns molecular dynamics simulation suggesting that Cytarabine might be possible potent inhibitor for the SARS-CoV-2 RNA Dependent RNA Polymerase.
Open science practices in general and internal medicine journals, an observational study
Authors: Tarazona-Alvarez Beatriz , Zamora-Martinez Natalia , Garcia-Sanz Veronica , Paredes-Gallardo Vanessa , Bellot-Arcis Carlos , Lucas-Dominguez Rut , Vidal-Infer Antonio
Published: May 2022

Background

As part of the Open Science movement, this study aims to analyze the current state of open access and open data policies concerning the availability of articles and raw data of the journals belonging to the category “Medicine, General & Internal” of the Science Citation Index Expanded.

Methods

Journal data sharing policies were evaluated through the following variables: possibility of manuscript storage in repositories; reuse policy; publication on a website; and statement regarding complementary material. Subsequently, an analysis of the supplementary material associated with each article was performed through the PubMed Central repository. The study reported was assessed following the STROBE guidelines for observational studies.

Results

This study shows that only one-third of the journals included in the category “Medicine, General & Internal” allow the depositing of their documents in repositories and its reuse, while approximately half of the journals agree to publish the document on a website as well as to deposit supplementary material along with the publication. However, the reality about this last variable is that only 9.5% of the articles analyzed contained supplementary material being the main journals involved, BMJ Open, JAMA Network Open, New England Journal of Medicine, Lancet and Plos Medicine.

Conclusions

The analysis of the opening policies of the journals concerning data availability in medical research reveals the unequal positioning of publishers towards the sharing of open data, the ambiguity regarding government policies about the obligation to deposit data and the need for ethical and standardization requirements in the typology/format of the data deposited without forgetting the important role that the researcher plays. Further studies based on journals indexed in medical databases other than Science Citation Index Expanded are needed.
Understanding systemic land use dynamics in conflict-affected territories: The cases of Cesar and Caquetá, Colombia
Authors: Del Río Duque Martha Lilia , Rodríguez Tatiana , Pérez Lora Ángela Patricia , Löhr Katharina , Romero Miguel , Castro-Nunez Augusto , Sieber Stefan , Bonatti Michelle
Published: May 2022

In the Colombian context, disputes over natural resources, mainly over land, and poor governance are intertwined with armed conflict. Although efforts to address this situation, including the 2016 peace agreement signed between Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC, by Spanish acronym) are underway, these disputes continue, affecting land use dynamics. Understanding the complexity and trends in land use conflicts, as well as the specific regional characteristics underlying differing land use changes across regions, is critical. This article aims to systematically understand land use dynamics in two contrasting and conflict-affected territories in Colombia, Caquetá and Cesar, thus identifying entry points to address land-use conflicts at the regional level. To address the complexity of each regional case, we apply a methodology based on system thinking to capture the interconnections between socio-economic and environmental system components and their land use dynamics. Results depicted through causal loop diagrams not just show the cascade of environmental, social, and economic failures resulting from land use changes in these two conflict-affected territories but also suggest that land tenure systems innovations and the promotion of sustainable land use interventions at the regional level can reverse the consequences of the land use changes. Thus, future actions addressing land use conflicts must be context-dependent, tackling the root and structural causes.
A prospective longitudinal study with treated hypertensive patients in Northern Bangladesh (PREDIcT-HTN) to understand uncontrolled hypertension and adverse clinical events: A protocol for 5-years follow-up
Authors: Hossain Ahmed , Ahsan Gias Uddin , Hossain Mohammad Zakir , Hossain Mohammad Anwar , Sultana Zeeba Zahra , Arefin Adittya , Jahan Shah Mohammad Sarwer , Sutradhar Probal
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Uncontrolled hypertension is the most common cause of major adverse clinical events (MACE), such as myocardial infarction, strokes, and death due to CVDs, in both developed and developing countries. Western-led studies found that treated hypertensive adults with uncontrolled hypertension were more at-risk of all-cause and CVD-specific mortality than normotensives. The PRospEctive longituDInal sTudy of Treated HyperTensive patients of Northern-Bangladesh (PREDIcT-HTN) study principally aims to estimate the incidence of MACE in treated hypertensive patients and identify the determinants of MACE. The secondary objective is to find the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension in treated hypertensive patients and the associated risk factors.

Methods and analysis

The treated hypertensive patients were obtained from the Hypertension and Research Center (H&RC), Rangpur, Bangladesh, from January to December 2020. Based on the eligibility criteria, 2643 patients were included to constitute the PREDIcT-HTN cohort. Baseline data was retrieved from the H&RC registry, and five follow-up waves are planned yearly (2021–2025). A questionnaire will be administered at each follow-up visit on hypertension control status, behavioral factors, quality of life, dietary adherence, and high blood pressure compliance-related variables. The participant will be right censored if the patient develops MACE, death due to any cause, loss to follow-up, or at the end of the study. A proportional hazard model will identify the risk factors of MACE. Multinomial logistic regression analyses will be performed to determine the predictors of the hypertension control status by medication and dietary adherence after adjusting confounders.

Ethics and dissemination

The ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Institutional Review Board, North South University [Ref: 2019/OR-NSU/IRB-No.0902]. The participants will provide written consent to participate. The findings will be disseminated through manuscripts in clinical/academic journals and presentations at professional conferences and stakeholder communication.
Epidemiology of hepatitis B virus and/or hepatitis C virus infections among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kenfack-Momo Raoul , Kenmoe Sebastien , Takuissu Guy Roussel , Ebogo-Belobo Jean Thierry , Kengne-Ndé Cyprien , Mbaga Donatien Serge , Tchatchouang Serges , Oyono Martin Gael , Kenfack-Zanguim Josiane , Lontuo Fogang Robertine , Mbongue Mikangue Chris Andre , Zeuko’o Menkem Elisabeth , Ndzie Ondigui Juliette Laure , Kame-Ngasse Ginette Irma , Magoudjou-Pekam Jeannette Nina , Taya-Fokou Jean Bosco , Bowo-Ngandji Arnol , Nkie Esemu Seraphine , Kamdem Thiomo Diane , Moundipa Fewou Paul , Ndip Lucy , Njouom Richard
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Due to their common routes of transmission, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV) has become a major public health problem worldwide, particularly in Africa, where these viruses are endemic. Few systematic reviews report the epidemiological data of HBV and/or HCV coinfection with HIV in Africa, and none provided data on the case fatality rate (CFR) associated with this coinfection. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and case fatality rate of HBV and/or HCV infections among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) in Africa.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of published articles in PubMed, Web of Science, African Journal Online, and African Index Medicus up to January 2022. Manual searches of references from retrieved articles and grey literature were also performed. The meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Sources of heterogeneity were investigated using subgroup analysis, while funnel plots and Egger tests were performed to assess publication bias.

Results

Of the 4388 articles retrieved from the databases, 314 studies met all the inclusion criteria. The overall HBV case fatality rate estimate was 4.4% (95% CI; 0.7–10.3). The overall seroprevalences of HBV infection, HCV infection, and HBV/HCV coinfection in PLHIV were 10.5% [95% CI = 9.6–11.3], 5.4% [95% CI = 4.6–6.2], and 0.7% [95% CI = 0.3–1.0], respectively. The pooled seroprevalences of current HBsAg, current HBeAg, and acute HBV infection among PLHIV were 10.7% [95% CI = 9.8–11.6], 7.0% [95% CI = 4.7–9.7], and 3.6% [95% CI = 0.0–11.0], respectively. Based on HBV-DNA and HCV-RNA detection, the seroprevalences of HBV and HCV infection in PLHIV were 17.1% [95% CI = 11.5–23.7] and 2.5% [95% CI = 0.9–4.6], respectively. Subgroup analysis showed substantial heterogeneity.

Conclusions

In Africa, the prevalence of hepatotropic viruses, particularly HBV and HCV, is high in PLHIV, which increases the case fatality rate. African public health programs should emphasize the need to apply and comply with WHO guidelines on viral hepatitis screening and treatment in HIV-coinfected patients.

Review registration

PROSPERO, CRD42021237795.