bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vanishing pachy-choroid in pachychoroid neovasculopathy under long-term anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy
Authors: Schworm Benedikt , Luft Nikolaus , Keidel Leonie F. , Kreutzer Thomas C. , Herold Tina R. , Priglinger Siegfried G. , Siedlecki Jakob
Published: June 2021

Background

To investigate the diagnostic value of choroidal thickness in the definition of pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV), especially in eyes treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy.

Methods

Twenty-two consecutive eyes of 11 patients with uni- or bilateral PNV were analyzed. Anti-VEGF treatment was correlated with changes in choroidal thickness on enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography.

Results

There were 14 eyes with PNV and 8 non-neovascular partner eyes. Mean age was 64.2 ± 4.0 (range: 60–72), total follow-up was 1.8 ± 0.4 (1–2) years. In PNV eyes, choroidal thickness at baseline was 400 ± 58 (269–485) μm. After two years and 13 anti-VEGF injections on average, a mean reduction of − 39 ± 10 (− 26 to − 56) % to final 241 ± 52 (162–327) μm was observed (p < 0.0001). Meanwhile, choroidal thickness in the partner eyes remained stable (p > 0.13 for all comparisons). A significant correlation of choroidal thinning and anti-VEGF injection rate was observed at year one (r = − 0.79; R2 = 0.63; p = 0.00073) and two (r = − 0.69; R2 = 0.48; p = 0.019). While 85.7% of PNV eyes exceeded a pachychoroid threshold of ≥350 μm at baseline, this figure dropped to 21.4% at year one and 0% at year two.

Conclusion

In PNV, choroidal thickness significantly decreases with anti-VEGF therapy, resembling a “vanishing pachy-choroid”, and thus does not represent a valid long-term diagnostic criterium, especially when differentiating PNV from nAMD.
The negative impact of chronic tobacco smoking on adult neuropsychological function: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nadar Mohammed Sh. , Hasan Abdullah M. , Alsaleh Mohammed
Published: June 2021

Background

The evidence on the effects of chronic tobacco smoking on neuropsychological functions is conflicting. The literature remains limited by inconsistent accounting for potentially confounding biomedical and psychiatric conditions. This study aimed to assess the neuropsychological functions of adult chronic tobacco smokers in comparison to group-matched non-smokers.

Method

The study included 73 smokers and 84 group-matched non-smokers. The data was collected during the year 2019. After an initial interview to collect demographics and smoking profile, the subjects undertook neuropsychological assessments that targeted a wide range of cognitive domains.

Results

The performance of smokers was poorer on almost all neuropsychological domains, namely selective attention (p ≤ .001, p = .044), alternating attention (p = .002) working memory (p ≤ .001), Short-term memory (p = .006 and .003), Long-term memory (p ≤ .001), processing accuracy (p ≤ .001), and executive function (p = .011 and .026). Smokers were intact on processing speed. Smoking accumulation and lower age onset of regular smoking were correlated with lower neuropsychological function.

Conclusion

Our findings add to the growing body of evidence suggesting that chronic tobacco smoking impacts cognition negatively.
Food and health promotion literacy among employees with a low and medium level of education in the Netherlands
Authors: Sponselee Hanne C. S. , Kroeze Willemieke , Poelman Maartje P. , Renders Carry M. , Ball Kylie , Steenhuis Ingrid H. M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Prior research indicates a positive association between socioeconomic position and health literacy levels. We hypothesize comparable socioeconomic gradients for food literacy. This study aims to determine the level of self-perceived food literacy and health promotion literacy among adults with a low and medium level of education and from various subgroups, as well as the association between these food and health literacy levels. Furthermore, this study aims to explore the associations of self-perceived food literacy (SPFL) and health promotion literacy (HPL) in BMI.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among employees with a low and medium level of education. Descriptive analyses were performed to compute SPFL and HPL levels. Analyses of variance were performed to test differences between subgroups. The correlation between SPFL and HPL was computed by Pearson’s r. Multivariate linear regression analyses were used to explore 1) the association between SPFL and HPL adjusted for demographic characteristics 2) the associations between SPFL and HPL in BMI.

Results

The majority (63.1%) of all participants (n = 222) scored low on SPFL and 34.5% scored inadequate or problematic on HPL. No significant educational or weight-status differences were found in SPFL or HPL levels. On most levels, women compared to men and older compared to younger employees scored significantly higher. A small positive correlation between the two mean levels was found, r = .25, P < .001 (n = 203). Multivariate linear regression analyses showed a significant association between SPFL and HPL (B = .31, 95% CI = .15–.48). No significant associations between SPFL and HPL in BMI were found.

Conclusions

This study suggests there is room for improvement in SPFL and HPL among adults with a low and medium level of education. Future research should consider comparing low and middle socioeconomic with high socioeconomic groups when exploring food and health literacy. Regarding health promotion activities for adults with a low and medium level of education, it is recommended to focus on improving both food and health literacy. Furthermore, more research is needed to explore direct proxies of weight-status to better understand the role of food and health literacy in overweight patterns.
A case of iatrogenic intussusception in adults: a rare case report
Authors: Hu Qiang , Sun Yuanshui , Shi Jianfeng
Published: June 2021

Background

Intussusception has a low incidence rate in adults. Many cases in adults are caused by tumors. Intussusception results from conditions other than tumors are uncommon. This is the first case report about intussusception that occurred after removing a long intestinal tube (LT).

Case presentation

A 69-year-old female complained of “recurrent abdominal pain with reduced flatus passage and frequency of bowel movement for 10 days” was admitted to the hospital. Plain abdominal radiography and abdominal CT upon admission showed intestinal obstruction. The patient’s abdominal pain was not relieved after symptomatic treatments, which involved fluid and electrolyte replacement, LT placement, spasmolytic agents, and analgesics. Hence, surgical exploration was carried out. The patient had a good recovery postoperatively. No abdominal pain or bloating developed after food intake. The patient passed flatus and had bowel movements later. On postoperative day 9, the LT was removed. On the 10th day, the patient suddenly developed abdominal distension and acute abdominal pain. Emergency abdominal CT showed small bowel intussusception. Surgical exploration was then performed. Severe small bowel dilatation located at 1.5 m from the ligament of Treitz was found during the procedure. Intussusception at the site was observed. No color change of the intestinal wall was detected, suggesting that no necrosis was present. So, a manual reduction was done. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 6.

Conclusions

This case serves as a warning that the simple action of pulling out the LT might also cause serious complications, which should be given more attention.
Nocturnal digital surveillance in aged populations and its effects on health, welfare and social care provision: a systematic review
Authors: Richardson Matt X. , Ehn Maria , Stridsberg Sara Landerdahl , Redekop Ken , Wamala-Andersson Sarah
Published: June 2021

Background

Nocturnal digital surveillance technologies are being widely implemented as interventions for remotely monitoring elderly populations, and often replace person-based surveillance. Such interventions are often placed in care institutions or in the home, and monitored by qualified personnel or relatives, enabling more rapid and/or frequent assessment of the individual’s need for assistance than through on-location visits. This systematic review summarized the effects of these surveillance technologies on health, welfare and social care provision outcomes in populations ≥ 50 years, compared to standard care.

Method

Primary studies published 2005–2020 that assessed these technologies were identified in 11 databases of peer-reviewed literature and numerous grey literature sources. Initial screening, full-text screening, and citation searching steps yielded the studies included in the review. The Risk of Bias and ROBINS-I tools were used for quality assessment of the included studies.

Result

Five studies out of 744 identified records met inclusion criteria. Health-related outcomes (e.g. accidents, 2 studies) and social care outcomes (e.g. staff burden, 4 studies) did not differ between interventions and standard care. Quality of life and affect showed improvement (1 study each), as did economic outcomes (1 study). The quality of studies was low however, with all studies possessing a high to critical risk of bias.

Conclusions

We found little evidence for the benefit of nocturnal digital surveillance interventions as compared to standard care in several key outcomes. Higher quality intervention studies should be prioritized in future research to provide more reliable evidence.
Mitochondrial creatine kinase 1 in non-small cell lung cancer progression and hypoxia adaptation
Authors: Li Ming , Liu Huan , Li Juan , Guo Shuai , Lv Yan
Published: July 2021

Background

Hypoxia is a prominent feature of solid cancer. This research aims to expose the role of mitochondrial creatine kinase 1 (CKMT1) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression and hypoxia adaptation.

Methods

The mRNA and protein expression of CKMT1 in NSCLC tissues were detected by using GEPIA web, immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR. For hypoxia, cells were exposed to the 1% O2 atmosphere. The protein levels of HIF-1α and CKMT1 in H1650 and H1299 cells exposed to hypoxia were determined by western blot. The roles of CKMT1 on the proliferation, invasion and hypoxia adaptation of NSCLC cells were measured by CCK8, colony formation and transwell assays. Luciferase activity assay and HIF1 specific inhibitor (LW6) assay indicated the related function of hypoxia and CKMT1.

Results

CKMT1 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues, and the high level of CKMT1 was significantly correlated with the high pathological grade of NSCLC. Knockdown of CKMT1 inhibited the cell proliferation and invasion of H1650 and H1299 cells, which could be rescued by hypoxia. Hypoxia induced the accumulation of HIF-1α and the expression of CKMT1 in H1650 and H1299 cells. Furthermore, HIF-1 as a transcription factor of CKMT1, could up-regulated the expression of CKMT1 under hypoxia.

Conclusions

In summary, CKMT1 has the potential as a target for NSCLC hypoxic targeted therapy.
LncRNA MONC suppresses the malignant phenotype of Endometrial Cancer Stem Cells and Endometrial Carcinoma Cells by regulating the MiR-636/GLCE axis
Authors: Li Yibing , Huo Jianing , He Junjian , Ma Xiaoxin
Published: June 2021

Background

Emerging evidence shows that abnormal expression of long non-coding RNA is involved in the occurrence and development of various tumors. LncRNA MONC is abnormally expressed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and acute megakaryocytic leukemia, but the biological function and potential regulatory mechanism of MONC in endometrial cancer stem cells (ECSCs) and endometrial cancer cells (ECCs) have not been studied. In this study, we aimed to explore the tumor suppressive effect and mechanism of MONC in regulating ECSCs and ECCs.

Methods

We used qRT-PCR to detect the expression of MONC, miR-636 and GLCE in normal human endometrial tissues and endometrial carcinoma (EC) tissues. Luciferase assay was used to verify the binding sites between MONC and miR-636 and between miR-636 and GLCE. Double fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to locate MONC and miR-636 in cells. ECSCs were obtained by flow cytometry sorting assay. Sphere formation assay, CCK-8 assay, transwell invasion assay, cell cycle analysis and apoptosis assay were used to detect the effects of MONC/miR-636/GLCE axis on the malignant biological behavior of ECSCs and ECCs. The effect of MONC on the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process was detected using western blot. Finally, we conducted in vivo verification through Tumor xenografts in BALB/C nude mice.

Results

In this study, we found MONC is low expression in endometrial carcinoma (EC) and patients in the MONC high-expression group had a better prognosis. MONC and miR-636 are relatively co-localized in the cytoplasm. MONC directly inhibits the malignant biological behavior of ECSCs and ECCs by directly inhibiting miR-636. Simultaneously, miR-636 may indirectly reduce the expression of MONC. Down-regulation of miR-636 may promote GLCE expression by targeting the 3′-untranslated region (UTR) of the downstream gene GLCE, thereby inhibiting the progression of ECSCs. MONC combined with miR-636 inhibited tumor epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. In addition, we verified the tumor suppressive effect of MONC in nude mice, miR-636 can rescue the tumor suppressive effect of overexpressing MONC.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study showed that MONC inhibits the malignant phenotypes of ECSCs and ECCs by regulating the miR-636/GLCE axis. Thus the MONC/miR-636/GLCE axis may provide novel treatment avenues for human EC.
Upregulated CD58 is associated with clinicopathological characteristics and poor prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yalu , Liu Qiaofei , Liu Jingkai , Liao Quan
Published: June 2021

Background

CD58 has been demonstrated to be abnormally expressed in multiple hematopoietic malignancies and solid tumors and plays an essential role in tumorigenesis and progression; however, its clinical significance and prognostic value in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain unknown.

Methods

Based on diverse online public databases and 81 PDAC samples of tissue microarray-based immunohistochemistry (IHC), we evaluated CD58 expression in PDAC patients and analyzed its association with clinicopathological characteristics, clinical outcomes, and infiltration of immune cells in PDAC. Furthermore, the correlation between CD58 and the cancer stem cell (CSC)-related, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related, and immune-related markers were detected. Besides, the functional enrichment analysis and related pathways were analyzed and visualized.

Results

CD58 expression was elevated in pancreatitis and PDAC tissues than normal pancreas or adjacent nontumor tissues. The positive cases of CD58 (e.g. more than 50% positive cells) in PDAC account for 95.06% (77/81). Upregulated CD58 in cancer tissues was associated with worse histological grade, larger tumor size, and poorer overall survival and disease-free survival in PDAC patients. Furthermore, Cox multivariate regression analysis revealed that CD58 was an independent prognostic factor in PDAC. CD58 expression was correlated with infiltrations of neutrophils, CD8+ T cells, and dendritic cells (DCs). In addition, correlation gene analysis indicated that CD58 expression was strongly correlated with immune-related, EMT-related, and CSC-related markers. Functional enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway manifested that CD58 might be involved in PDAC initiation and progression.

Conclusions

CD58 expression is upregulated in PDAC tissues and its high expression is notably related to poor survival of PDAC. Therefore, CD58 may serve as a novel and effective marker for predicting the prognosis of PDAC patients.
Balanced impacts of fitness and drug pressure on the evolution of PfMDR1 polymorphisms in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Duvalsaint Marvin , Conrad Melissa D. , Tukwasibwe Stephen , Tumwebaze Patrick K. , Legac Jennifer , Cooper Roland A. , Rosenthal Philip J.
Published: June 2021

Background

Anti-malarial drug resistance may be limited by decreased fitness in resistant parasites. Important contributors to resistance are mutations in the Plasmodium falciparum putative drug transporter PfMDR1.

Methods

Impacts on in vitro fitness of two common PfMDR1 polymorphisms, N86Y, which is associated with sensitivity to multiple drugs, and Y184F, which has no clear impact on drug sensitivity, were evaluated to study associations between resistance mediators and parasite fitness, measured as relative growth in competitive culture experiments. NF10 P. falciparum lines engineered to represent all PfMDR1 N86Y and Y184F haplotypes were co-cultured for 40 days, and the genetic make-up of the cultures was characterized every 4 days by pyrosequencing. The impacts of culture with anti-malarials on the growth of different haplotypes were also assessed. Lastly, the engineering of P. falciparum containing another common polymorphism, PfMDR1 D1246Y, was attempted.

Results

Co-culture results were as follows. With wild type (WT) Y184 fixed (N86/Y184 vs. 86Y/Y184), parasites WT and mutant at 86 were at equilibrium. With mutant 184 F fixed (N86/184F vs. 86Y/184F), mutants at 86 overgrew WT. With WT N86 fixed (N86/Y184 vs. N86/184F), WT at 184 overgrew mutants. With mutant 86Y fixed (86Y/Y184 vs. 86Y/184F), WT and mutant at 86 were at equilibrium. Parasites with the double WT were in equilibrium with the double mutant, but 86Y/Y184 overgrew N86/184F. Overall, WT N86/mutant 184F parasites were less fit than parasites with all other haplotypes. Parasites engineered for another mutation, PfMDR1 1246Y, were unstable in culture, with reversion to WT over time. Thus, the N86 WT is stable when accompanied by the Y184 WT, but incurs a fitness cost when accompanied by mutant 184F. Culturing in the presence of chloroquine favored 86Y mutant parasites and in the presence of lumefantrine favored N86 WT parasites; piperaquine had minimal impact.

Conclusions

These results are consistent with those for Ugandan field isolates, suggest reasons for varied haplotypes, and highlight the interplay between drug pressure and fitness that is guiding the evolution of resistance-mediating haplotypes in P. falciparum.
Timing and causes of death in severe COVID-19 patients
Authors: de Roquetaillade Charles , Bredin Swann , Lascarrou Jean-Baptiste , Soumagne Thibaud , Cojocaru Mariana , Chousterman Benjamin Glenn , Leclerc Maxime , Gouhier Albin , Piton Gaël , Pène Frédéric , Stoclin Annabelle , Llitjos Jean-François
Published: June 2021

Background

Previous studies reporting the causes of death in patients with severe COVID-19 have provided conflicting results. The objective of this study was to describe the causes and timing of death in patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

We performed a retrospective study in eight ICUs across seven French hospitals. All consecutive adult patients (aged ≥ 18 years) admitted to the ICU with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and acute respiratory failure were included in the analysis. The causes and timing of ICU deaths were reported based on medical records.

Results

From March 1, 2020, to April 28, 287 patients were admitted to the ICU for SARS-CoV-2 related acute respiratory failure. Among them, 93 patients died in the ICU (32%). COVID-19-related multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) was the leading cause of death (37%). Secondary infection-related MODS accounted for 26% of ICU deaths, with a majority of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Refractory hypoxemia/pulmonary fibrosis was responsible for death in 19% of the cases. Fatal ischemic events (venous or arterial) occurred in 13% of the cases. The median time from ICU admission to death was 15 days (25th–75th IQR, 7–27 days). COVID-19-related MODS had a median time from ICU admission to death of 14 days (25th–75th IQR: 7–19 days), while only one death had occurred during the first 3 days since ICU admission.

Conclusions

In our multicenter observational study, COVID-19-related MODS and secondary infections were the two leading causes of death, among severe COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU.
Early individualized positive end-expiratory pressure guided by electrical impedance tomography in acute respiratory distress syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: He Huaiwu , Chi Yi , Yang Yingying , Yuan Siyi , Long Yun , Zhao Pengyu , Frerichs Inéz , Fu Feng , Möller Knut , Zhao Zhanqi
Published: June 2021

Background

Individualized positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) by electrical impedance tomography (EIT) has potential interest in the optimization of ventilation distribution in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The aim of the study was to determine whether early individualized titration of PEEP with EIT improved outcomes in patients with ARDS.

Methods

A total of 117 ARDS patients receiving mechanical ventilation were randomly assigned to EIT group (n = 61, PEEP adjusted based on ventilation distribution) or control group (n = 56, low PEEP/FiO2 table). The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. Secondary and exploratory outcomes were ventilator-free days, length of ICU stay, incidence of pneumothorax and barotrauma, and difference in Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score at day 1 (ΔD1-SOFA) and day 2 (ΔD2-SOFA) compared with baseline.

Measurements and main results

There was no statistical difference in the value of PEEP between the EIT group and control group, but the combination of PEEP and FiO2 was different between groups. In the control group, a significantly positive correlation was found between the PEEP value and the corresponding FiO2 (r = 0.47, p < 0.00001) since a given matched table was used for PEEP settings. Diverse combinations of PEEP and FiO2 were found in the EIT group (r = 0.05, p = 0.68). There was no significant difference in mortality rate (21% vs. 27%, EIT vs. control, p = 0.63), ICU length of stay (13.0 (7.0, 25.0) vs 10.0 (7.0, 14.8), median (25th–75th percentile); p = 0.17), and ventilator-free days at day 28 (14.0 (2.0, 23.0) vs 19.0 (0.0, 24.0), p = 0.55) between the two groups. The incidence of new barotrauma was zero. Compared with control group, significantly lower ΔD1-SOFA and ΔD2-SOFA were found in the EIT group (p < 0.001) in a post hoc comparison. Moreover, the EIT group exhibited a significant decrease of SOFA at day 2 compared with baseline (paired t-test, difference by − 1 (− 3.5, 0), p = 0.001). However, the control group did show a similar decrease (difference by 1 (− 2, 2), p = 0.131).

Conclusion

Our study showed a 6% absolute decrease in mortality in the EIT group: a statistically non-significant, but clinically non-negligible result. This result along with the showed improvement in organ function might justify further reserach to validate the beneficial effect of individualized EIT-guided PEEP setting on clinical outcomes of patients with ARDS.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials, NCT02361398. Registered 11 February 2015—prospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT02361398.
SMOOTH-seq: single-cell genome sequencing of human cells on a third-generation sequencing platform
Authors: Fan Xiaoying , Yang Cheng , Li Wen , Bai Xiuzhen , Zhou Xin , Xie Haoling , Wen Lu , Tang Fuchou
Published: June 2021

There is no effective way to detect structure variations (SVs) and extra-chromosomal circular DNAs (ecDNAs) at single-cell whole-genome level. Here, we develop a novel third-generation sequencing platform-based single-cell whole-genome sequencing (scWGS) method named SMOOTH-seq (single-molecule real-time sequencing of long fragments amplified through transposon insertion). We evaluate the method for detecting CNVs, SVs, and SNVs in human cancer cell lines and a colorectal cancer sample and show that SMOOTH-seq reliably and effectively detects SVs and ecDNAs in individual cells, but shows relatively limited accuracy in detection of CNVs and SNVs. SMOOTH-seq opens a new chapter in scWGS as it generates high fidelity reads of kilobases long.
Presepsin values and prognostic nutritional index predict mortality in intensive care unit patients with sepsis: a pilot study
Authors: Shimoyama Yuichiro , Umegaki Osamu , Kadono Noriko , Minami Toshiaki
Published: June 2021

Objective

Sepsis is a major cause of mortality for critically ill patients. This study aimed to determine whether presepsin values can predict mortality in patients with sepsis.

Results

Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, Log-rank test, and multivariate analysis identified presepsin values and Prognostic Nutritional Index as predictors of mortality in sepsis patients. Presepsin value on Day 1 was a predictor of early mortality, i.e., death within 7 days of ICU admission; ROC curve analysis revealed an AUC of 0.84, sensitivity of 89%, and specificity of 77%; and multivariate analysis showed an OR of 1.0007, with a 95%CI of 1.0001–1.0013 (p = 0.0320).
Onco-fertility and personalized testing for potential for loss of ovarian reserve in patients undergoing chemotherapy: proposed next steps for development of genetic testing to predict changes in ovarian reserve
Authors: Sun Bei , Yeh John
Published: June 2021

Women of reproductive age undergoing chemotherapy face the risk of irreversible ovarian insufficiency. Current methods of ovarian reserve testing do not accurately predict future reproductive potential for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Genetic markers that more accurately predict the reproductive potential of each patient undergoing chemotherapy would be critical tools that would be useful for evidence-based fertility preservation counselling. To assess the possible approaches to take to develop personalized genetic testing for these patients, we review current literature regarding mechanisms of ovarian damage due to chemotherapy and genetic variants associated with both the damage mechanisms and primary ovarian insufficiency. The medical literature point to a number of genetic variants associated with mechanisms of ovarian damage and primary ovarian insufficiency. Those variants that appear at a higher frequency, with known pathways, may be considered as potential genetic markers for predictive ovarian reserve testing. We propose developing personalized testing of the potential for loss of ovarian function for patients with cancer, prior to chemotherapy treatment. There are advantages of using genetic markers complementary to the current ovarian reserve markers of AMH, antral follicle count and day 3 FSH as predictors of preservation of fertility after chemotherapy. Genetic markers will help identify upstream pathways leading to high risk of ovarian failure not detected by present clinical markers. Their predictive value is mechanism-based and will encourage research towards understanding the multiple pathways contributing to ovarian failure after chemotherapy.
Diagnostic value of brain MR imaging and its correlation with clinical presentation and cognitive functions in idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients
Authors: Elmaaty Ali Ahmed Abou , Zarad Carmen Ali , Belal Tamer Ibrahim , Elserafy Tamer Sabry
Published: June 2021

Background

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a neurological disorder of unknown etiology and ambiguous pathophysiology due to cerebrospinal fluid dysregulation. This study is designed to evaluate the role of brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) in diagnosis of IIH, to clarify the nature and extent of cognitive deficits, and to detect if there is a correlation between radiology, clinical findings, and cognitive dysfunctions in those patients.

Results

The study included 34 patients and 34 age-, sex-, body mass index (BMI)-, and education-matched healthy control subjects. MR brain imaging and Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) test were used for both groups. MRI and MRV sensitivity for IIH diagnosis were 85.2% and 85.3% with 100% and 94.1% specificity respectively. 44.1% had cognitive impairment, memory was the most affected domain, followed by attention, abstraction, and orientation with statistically significantly lower total MoCA score (p < 0.005). Domain comparisons reveal a statistically significantly lower memory/delayed recall (p < 0.001) and abstract scores (p < 0.007) in IIH cases versus control subjects. In comparing patients with cognitive impairment (CI) versus those without CI, there were statistically significantly higher CI in low education level, presence of diplopia, hormonal contraceptive use, abnormal MRI brain, papilledema grades, BMI, and opening pressure.

Conclusions

Presence of more than or equal 3 MR imaging findings, bilateral transverse sinus stenosis, and less than or equal 4 combined conduit score increase the specificity and sensitivity of MRI and MRV for IIH diagnosis. IIH had detrimental effect on different cognitive domains especially when patient have low education level, diplopia, papilledema ≥ grade III, high OP ≥ 61.5 cm H2O, and BMI ≥ 34 Kg/m2 with abnormal MRI and MRV findings.
Metal contamination and coexistence of metal and antibiotic resistance in Vibrio species recovered from aquaculture ponds with and without history of antibiotic usage in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Adekanmbi Abimbola Olumide , Olawuni Ololade Grace , Olaposi Adedolapo Victoria
Published: June 2021

Background

The use of metal-containing and antimicrobial compounds is a common practice in aquaculture operations in Nigeria. Only a few studies have focused on the impact of these chemicals on metal and antibiotic resistance development in the bacterial flora of aquaculture. This study therefore sets out to fill this gap.

Results

Five metals, namely copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr), were detected at different concentrations in the pond water samples, with most values obtained exceeding the maximum recommended national standard for fisheries and recreation water quality criteria set by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) in Nigeria. A total of 121 Vibrio spp. were recovered from the aquaculture pond water with Vibrio cholerae having the highest frequency (37) followed by Vibrio parahaemolyticus (36), Vibrio vulnificus (36) and Vibrio alginolyticus (12). Seventy-five isolates were recovered from ponds with history of antibiotic use, while the ponds with no recognized history of antibiotic use had forty-six isolates. The percentage resistance to antibiotics in the isolates was: ampicillin (88.5%), amoxicillin–clavulanate (44.3%), tetracycline (41%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (22.1%), chloramphenicol (15.6%), ciprofloxacin (11.5%), imipenem (5.7%), ceftazidime (4.1%) and gentamicin (0%). All the isolates tolerated all the metals to 400 µg/mL concentration while only the trio of Pb, Ni and Cr were tolerated beyond the concentration. Zn and Cu appeared to be the most toxic metals on Vibrio spp., with no isolate surviving beyond the 400 µg/mL concentration mark, while 57 of the 121 isolates survived Cr at the highest concentration (3200 µg/mL), making it the most tolerated of the metals.

Conclusion

This study reports a high level of metal contamination in the aquaculture ponds studied. The concentration of the metals exceeded the maximum permissible limits in Nigeria. Also, there was coexistence of metal and antibiotic resistance in the bacteria recovered from the aquaculture ponds. There is a need to regulate the use of chemicals, especially antibiotics and some biocidal compounds, to clamp down on the introduction of metals and antibiotics into the aquaculture systems, as these chemicals could facilitate the development of resistance traits in aquaculture bacteria by creating a selective pressure in the aquaculture environment.
Premarital screening for genetic blood disorders — an integrated review on the knowledge and attitudes of Middle Eastern university students
Authors: Natarajan Jansirani , Joseph Mickael Antoine
Published: June 2021

Background

Genetic blood disorders are prevalent in the Middle Eastern countries causing physical, mental, and economic handicap. Premarital screening (PMS) is actively implemented to reduce the burgeoning load of these disorders. Literature shows a low response rate for PMS in this region. This integrated review aims to identify the knowledge and attitude of university students on PMS, as they are at the verge of entering into marriage relationships.

Main body of the abstract

We systematically reviewed the electronic databases like MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus. Studies reporting about the knowledge and attitudes of Middle Eastern university students between 2010 and 2020 are included in the review. Twelve cross-sectional descriptive studies conducted in six countries met the inclusion criteria. Majority of the studies reported good level of knowledge on PMS among the university students, whereas not all of them agreed to undergo PMS due to various religious and cultural beliefs.

Short conclusion

We recommend massive health education programs at the higher secondary and university levels to create better awareness on PMS. To improve the attitude towards PMS, life cycle approach and support of the religious leaders could be sought.
COVID-19-associated PTSD in the elderly—lessons learned for the next global pandemic
Authors: Sarangi Ashish , Javed Sana , Karki Kumar , Kaushal Akshita
Published: June 2021

Background

When COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic in March 2020, almost all countries implemented strict lockdowns and home quarantine orders in order to prevent spread of the virus. These implementations have severely affected the mental health of people all around the world especially the elderly, who are already physically and mentally fragile. There has been an escalation in the prevalence of depression, suicide, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Main body

The aim of our review was to highlight PTSD in the elderly population who has recovered from COVID-19 infection and come up with some recommendations for the future. A thorough literature review was conducted focusing on the impact of COVID-19 on development and progression of PTSD during the pandemic.

Conclusion

Increased allocation of resources by various government and private stakeholders is necessary to prepare for the long-term implications on mental health from the current and future pandemics.
Ethnicity, pre-existing comorbidities, and outcomes of hospitalised patients with COVID-19
Authors: Santorelli Gillian , McCooe Michael , Sheldon Trevor A. , Wright John , Lawton Tom
Published: June 2021

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in thousands of deaths in the UK. Those with existing comorbidities and minority ethnic groups have been found to be at increased risk of mortality. We wished to determine if there were any differences in intensive care unit (ICU) admission and 30-day hospital mortality in a city with high levels of deprivation and a large community of people of South Asian heritage. 

Methods: Detailed information on 582 COVID-19-positive inpatients in Bradford and Calderdale between February-August 2020 were extracted from Electronic Health Records. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used to explore the relationship between ethnicity with admission to ICU and 30-day mortality, respectively accounting for the effect of demographic and clinical confounders.

Results: The sample consisted of 408 (70%) White, 142 (24%) South Asian and 32 (6%) other minority ethnic patients. Ethnic minority patients were younger, more likely to live in deprived areas, and be overweight/obese, have type 2 diabetes, hypertension and asthma compared to white patients, but were less likely to have cancer (South Asian patients only) and COPD. Male and obese patients were more likely to be admitted to ICU, and patients of South Asian ethnicity, older age, and those with cancer were less likely. Being male, older age, deprivation, obesity, and cancer were associated with 30-day mortality. The risk of death in South Asian patients was the same as in white patients HR 1.03 (0.58, 1.82).

Conclusions: Despite South Asian patients being less likely to be admitted to ICU and having a higher prevalence of diabetes and obesity, there was no difference in the risk of death compared to white patients. This contrasts with other findings and highlights the value of studies of communities which may have different ethnic, deprivation and clinical risk profiles.
A clinical study to optimise a sand fly biting protocol for use in a controlled human infection model of cutaneous leishmaniasis (the FLYBITE study)
Authors: Parkash Vivak , Ashwin Helen , Sadlova Jovana , Vojtkova Barbora , Jones Georgina , Martin Nina , Greensted Elizabeth , Allgar Victoria , Kamhawi Shaden , Valenzuela Jesus G. , Layton Alison M. , Jaffe Charles L. , Volf Petr , Kaye Paul M. , Lacey Charles J. N.
Published: June 2021

Background:Leishmaniasis is a globally important yet neglected parasitic disease transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies. With new candidate vaccines in or near the clinic, a controlled human challenge model (CHIM) using natural sand fly challenge would provide a method for early evaluation of prophylactic efficacy.

Methods:We evaluated the biting frequency and adverse effects resulting from exposure of human volunteers to bites of eitherPhlebotomus papatasiorP. duboscqi, two natural vectors ofLeishmania major. 12 healthy participants were recruited (mean age 40.2 ± 11.8 years) with no history of significant travel to regions whereL. major-transmitting sand flies are prevalent. Participants were assigned to either vector by 1:1 allocation and exposed to five female sand flies for 30 minutes in a custom biting chamber. Bite frequency was recorded to confirm a bloodmeal was taken. Participant responses and safety outcomes were monitored using a visual analogue scale (VAS), clinical examination, and blood biochemistry. Focus groups were subsequently conducted to explore participant acceptability.

Results:All participants had at least one successful sand fly bite with none reporting any serious adverse events, with median VAS scores of 0-1/10 out to day 21 post-sand fly bite. Corresponding assessment of sand flies confirmed that for each participant at least 1/5 sand flies had successfully taken a bloodmeal (overall mean 3.67±1.03 bites per participant). There was no significant difference betweenP. papatasiandP. duboscqiin the number of bites resulting from 5 sand flies applied to human participants(3.3±0.81 vs3.00±1.27 bites per participant; p=0.56). In the two focus groups (n=5 per group), themes relating to positive participant-reported experiences of being bitten and the overall study, were identified.

Conclusions:These results validate a protocol for achieving successful sand fly bites in humans that is safe, well-tolerated and acceptable for participants.

Clinicaltrials.gov registration:NCT03999970 (27/06/2019)
Working with Text-Reasoning in Third Grade
Authors: Korochkina E.
Published: June 2021

The article reveals the practical experience of an elementary school teacher in shaping knowledge of different types of speech (types of text)

among third-graders: text-description; narration text; text-reasoning. An example of organizing a Russian language lesson to familiarize with the

text-reasoning is given. The role of such teaching methods as observing the characteristics of texts of different types, conducting an educational

dialogue, and independent work on creating texts of different types is emphasized.
Formation of Readiness for School, Taking into Account the Psychological Characteristics of Older Preschool Children
Authors: Zhurova L.
Published: June 2021

The article reveals the features of the phenomenon of the preschool period of child development, discusses the relevance, goals and content of

preparing a preschooler for school. The author convincingly proves that the readiness for successful schooling is determined not so much by

the student’s ability to read and count, as by such personal neoplasms that allow him to take new social roles (“student”, “school student”,

“classmate”) and become a subject of educational activity as leading for primary school age.
A Multicultural Approach at the Early Stage of Teaching a Foreign language
Authors: Kantysheva Nadezhda , Rahmatullina Alfiya
Published: June 2021

The article presents the experience of developing an elective course program for future foreign language teachers studying at Tyumen State

University. The content of the course is based on the principles of communication and variability and is focused on the development of the

communicative, psychological, pedagogical and technological competencies of the future teacher. The creation by the teacher of favorable

pedagogical conditions for a positive cultural identification of the student’s personality allows the child to become aware of the multicultural

space of the world. The professional portfolio of a novice teacher includes techniques, methods and technologies that can be used for further

pedagogical modeling.
Diagnostics of plasma jets in the solar corona
Authors: Anfinogentov Sergey , Kaltman Tatyana , Stupishin Alexey , Nakariakov Valery , Loukitcheva Maria
Published: June 2021

The paper discusses the diagnostics of plasma jets in the solar corona with the use of data from modern space- and ground-based telescopes observing the Sun in the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and micro- wave bands. We examine observational parameters of EUV and radio emission in events associated with plasma jets, depending on the mechanism of formation, initiation conditions, and evolution of the jets. The opportunities provided by the study of plasma jets, which relies on simultaneous observations in different bands, are highlighted. For a number of jets, we have measured their primary parameters; and in this paper we present preliminary results of statistical processing of the data obtained. Microwave observations of several specific events, made by ground-based instruments RATAN-600, SRH, and Nobeyama Radioheliograph, are considered in detail. The diagnostic capabilities of these instruments for studying coronal jets are shown. To analyze the three-dimensional structure of the coronal magnetic field, we have used SDO/HMI data, which allowed for the reconstruction of the field in the lower corona. The information gained is compared with the results of diagnostics of the magnetic field at the base of the corona according to RATAN-600 data. The purpose of the methods developed is to determine the physical mechanisms responsible for the generation, collimation, and dynamics of plasma jets in the solar atmosphere.
Geomagnetic method for automatic diagnostics of auroral oval boundaries in two hemispheres of Earth
Authors: Penskikh Yury , Lunyushkin Sergey , Kapustin Vyacheslav
Published: June 2021

The ground-based automatic method for determining auroral oval (AO) boundaries developed by the authors [Lunyushkin, Penskikh, 2019] has been modified and expanded to the Southern Hemisphere. Input data of the method contains large-scale distributions of the equivalent current function and field-aligned current density calculated in the polar ionospheres of two hemispheres in a uniform ionospheric conductance approximation based on the magnetogram inversion technique and the geomagnetic database of the world network of stations of the SuperMAG project. The software implementation of the method processes large volumes of time series of input data and produces coordinates of the main boundaries of AO in both hemispheres: the boundaries of the ionospheric convection reversal, the AO polar and equatorial boundaries, the lines of maximum density of field-aligned currents and auroral electrojets. The automatic method reduces the processing time for a given amount of data by 2–3 orders of magnitude (up to minutes and hours) compared to the manual method, which requires weeks and months of laborious operator work on the same task, while both methods are comparable in accuracy. The automatic geomagnetic method has been tested for diagnostics of AO boundaries during the isolated substorm of August 27, 2001, for which the expected synchronous dynamics of polar caps in two hemispheres has been confirmed. We also show the AO boundaries identified are in qualitative agreement with simultaneous AO images from the IMAGE satellite, as well as with the results of the OVATION and APM models; the boundary of ionospheric convection reversal, determined by the geomagnetic method in two hemispheres, is consistent with the maps of the electric potential of the ionosphere according to the SuperDARN-RG96 model.
Diagnostics of plasma jets in the solar corona
Authors: Anfinogentov Sergey , Kaltman Tatyana , Stupishin Alexey , Nakariakov Valery , Lukitcheva Maria
Published: June 2021

The paper discusses the diagnostics of plasma jets in the solar corona with the use of data from modern space- and ground-based telescopes observing the Sun in the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and micro- wave bands. We examine observational parameters of EUV and radio emission in events associated with plasma jets, depending on the mechanism of formation, initiation conditions, and evolution of the jets. The opportunities provided by the study of plasma jets, which relies on simultaneous observations in different bands, are highlighted. For a number of jets, we have measured their primary parameters; and in this paper we present preliminary results of statistical processing of the data obtained. Microwave observations of several specific events, made by ground-based instruments RATAN-600, SRH, and Nobeyama Radioheliograph, are considered in detail. The diagnostic capabilities of these instruments for studying coronal jets are shown. To analyze the three-dimensional structure of the coronal magnetic field, we have used SDO/HMI data, which allowed for the reconstruction of the field in the lower corona. The information gained is compared with the results of diagnostics of the magnetic field at the base of the corona according to RATAN-600 data. The purpose of the methods developed is to determine the physical mechanisms responsible for the generation, collimation, and dynamics of plasma jets in the solar atmosphere.
Force balance in current sheets in collisionless plasma
Authors: Mingalev Oleg , Setsko Pavel , Melnik Mikhail , Mingalev Igor , Malova Helmi , Merzlyi Alexey
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we derive a divergent form of the force balance equation for collisionless plasma in the quasineutrality approximation, in which the electric field and current density are excluded. For a stationary spatially one-dimensional current sheet with a constant normal component of the magnetic field and magnetized electrons, the general form of the force balance equation has been obtained for the first time in the form of a conservation law. An equation in this form is necessary for the correct formulation of boundary conditions when modeling asymmetric current sheets, as well as for the control of the stationarity of the numerical solution obtained in the model. Furthermore, the fulfillment of this equation is considered for two types of stationary configurations of a thin current sheet, which are obtained using a numerical model. The derived equation makes it possible to develop models of asymmetric current sheets, in particular current sheets on the magnetopause flanks in the magnetotail.