bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grief, photography and meaning making: A psychological constructivist approach
Authors: Jiménez-Alonso Belén , Brescó de Luna Ignacio
Published: April 2021

This article examines the value of using photography as both a methodological and therapeutic tool for the construction – and study – of meanings after a death-related loss. A study case, consisting of narratives of mourning elicited through a personal photo diary and a follow-up interview, will be analysed in light of five key advantages of using photography to study grief experiences according to a social constructivist approach. These advantages are (1) agency in the search for meaning; (2) the role of photography as a tool for scaffolding narratives of loss; (3) the role of photography in preserving the continuing bonds with the deceased; (4) the role of photography as technology of the self for emotional self-regulation and (5) photography as a process in the reviewing of the contextualised experience.
Eyewitness identification procedures: Do researchers and practitioners share the same goals?
Authors: Pike Graham , Havard Catriona , Harrison Gini , Ness Hayley
Published: April 2021

Research has undoubtedly led to a number of important changes to the way police obtain eyewitness identification evidence in a number of countries. However, despite these successes and the significant effort made by researchers to communicate key findings to public agencies, policy-makers and influential law enforcement personnel using a broad range of evidence, relevant policy and practice have either been very slow to respond or have not changed to incorporate the suggestions at all. In this article we employed an online survey to explore the knowledge and opinions of front-line policing practitioners in the UK regarding eyewitness research and practice. This was undertaken to determine how familiar less-senior, operational staff were with key research findings, what their opinions of current practice were and crucially, their views on how identification procedures should be improved compared with the recommendations made by researchers. The results revealed a fundamental mismatch between research and practice, with practitioners indicating a need to increase the rate of positive identifications and research tending to focus on methods of reducing false identifications. This result suggests that an approach driven by the need for the police to produce convictions may be an important factor that is blocking the translation of eyewitness identification research into practice.
Prognostic Role of RASSF1A, SOX17 and Wif-1 Promoter Methylation Status in Cell-Free DNA of Advanced Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Karamitrousis Evangelos I. , Balgkouranidou Ioanna , Xenidis Nikolaos , Amarantidis Kyriakos , Biziota Eirini , Koukaki Triantafyllia , Trypsianis Grigorios , Karayiannakis Anastasios , Bolanaki Helen , Kolios George , Lianidou Evi , Kakolyris Stylianos
Published: April 2021

Epigenetic modification of several genes is a key component in the development of gastric cancer. The methylation status of RASSF1A, SOX17 and Wif-1 genes was evaluated in the cell free circulating DNA of 70 patients with advanced gastric cancer, using methylation-specific PCR. Patients with higher cell-free DNA concentration seem to have lower PFS, than patients with lower cell-free DNA concentration (p = 0.001). RASSF1A was the tumor suppressor gene, most frequently methylated in metastatic gastric cancer patients, followed by SOX17 and Wif-1 (74.3%, 60.0% and 47.1%, respectively). Patients having the SOX17 promoter methylated, had lower progression free survival and overall survival, than unmethylated ones (p < 0.001). Patients having the Wif-1 promoter methylated, had lower progression free survival and overall survival, than unmethylated ones (p = 0.001). Patients having the RASSF1A promoter methylated, had lower progression free survival and overall survival, than unmethylated ones (p = 0.004). Promoter methylation of the examined genes was significantly associated with a decrease in progression free survival and overall survival, comparing to that of patients without methylation. Simultaneous methylation of the above genes was associated with even worse progression free survival and overall survival. The methylation of RASSF1A, SOX-17 and Wif-1 and genes, is a frequent epigenetic event in patients with advanced gastric cancer.
Nanobody Conjugates for Targeted Cancer Therapy and Imaging
Authors: Kang Wei , Ding Chuanfeng , Zheng Danni , Ma Xiao , Yi Lun , Tong Xinyi , Wu Chuang , Xue Chuang , Yu Yongsheng , Zhou Qian
Published: April 2021

Conventional antibody-based targeted cancer therapy is one of the most promising avenues of successful cancer treatment, with the potential to reduce toxic side effects to healthy cells surrounding tumor cells. However, the full potential of antibodies is severely limited due to their large size, low stability, slow clearance, and high immunogenicity. Alternatively, recently discovered nanobodies, which are the smallest naturally occurring antigen-binding format, have shown great potential for addressing these limitations. Bioconjugation of nanobodies to functional groups such as toxins, enzymes, radionucleotides, and fluorophores can improve the efficacy and potency of nanobodies, enhance their in vivo pharmacokinetics, and expand the range of potential applications. Herein, we review the superior characteristics of nanobodies in comparison to conventional antibodies and provide insight into recent developments in nanobody conjugates for targeted cancer therapy and imaging.
New insights into hallux valgus by whole exome sequencing study
Authors: Jia Jun , Li Junyi , Qu Huiqi , Li Mengyu , Zhang Sipeng , Hao Jun , Gao Xinyi , Meng Xinyi , Sun Yan , Hakonarson Hakon , Zeng Xiantie , Xia Qianghua , Li Jin
Published: April 2021

The traditional view is that the occurrence and development of hallux valgus (HV) are mainly due to environmental factors. Recent studies have suggested the large contribution of genetic heritability to HV, but it remains elusive about the genetic variants underlying the development of HV. To gain knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of HV pathogenesis by genetic approach, whole exome sequencing studies were performed in 10 individuals (7 affected by HV and 3 unaffected) from three independent families. Specific mutations were found to be related to the pathogenesis of HV and conform to the laws of inheritance. A total of 36 genes with functional candidate single nucleotide variants were identified. Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of HV. Interestingly, some of these genes are related to chronic arthritis, such as the complement encoding gene C7, or are related to long toe or long fingers, such as TTN, COL6A3, LARS, FIG4, and CBS. This study identified rare potentially pathogenic mutations represented by genes related to digital anomalies and chronic arthritis underlying the familial types of HV, which acquired new insights into the genetic and physiological foundations of HV, thereby might improve accurate prevention and drug development for HV.
Stimulating Solutions for Intractable Epilepsy
Authors: Denison Timothy , Koubeissi Mohamad , Krook-Magnuson Esther , Mogul David , Worrell Gregory , Schevon Catherine
Published: April 2021

Implantable devices for controlling medically intractable seizures nondestructively are rapidly advancing. These offer reversible, potentially, restorative options beyond traditional, surgical procedures, which rely, largely on resection or ablation of selected brain sites. Several lines of, investigation aimed at improving efficacy of these devices are discussed, ranging from identifying novel subcortical, white matter, or cell-type specific targets to engineering advances for adaptive techniques based- on continuous, dynamic system analysis.
A new synthetic method toward a key intermediate in the total synthesis of alkannin and shikonin
Authors: Zheng Xiaogang , Hu Hang , Xu Defeng
Published: April 2021

In the present work, a new synthetic method toward a key intermediate in the total synthesis of alkannin and shikonin is developed. The key intermediate, 4-methyl-1-(naphtho[1,8- de:4,5- d’e’]bis([1,3]dioxine)-4-yl)pent-3-en-1-one (5), is synthesized via the reaction of 1,8:4,5-bis(methylenedioxy)naphthalene-2-carboxylic acid N-methoxy- N-methylamide with prenyllithium. This synthetic approach avoids the use of N-methoxy- N,4-dimethylpent-3-enamide, which is not easy to obtain, and the toxic reagent sodium cyanide.
A pilot study of oral treprostinil pharmacogenomics and treatment persistence in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Coons James C. , Crisamore Karryn , Adams Solomon , Modany Ashley , Simon Marc A. , Zhao Wenchen , Shaik Imam H. , Venkataramanan Raman , Empey Philip E.
Published: April 2021

Background and aims:

Treprostinil is a prostacyclin analog used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. Dosing is empiric and based on tolerability. Adverse effects are common and can affect treatment persistence. Pharmacogenomic variants that may affect treprostinil metabolism and transport have not been well-characterized. We aimed to investigate the pharmacogenomic sources of variability in treatment persistence and dosing.

Methods:

Patients were prospectively recruited from an IRB approved biobank registry at a single pulmonary hypertension center. A cohort of patients who received oral treprostinil were screened for participation. Pharmacogenomic analysis was for variants in CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and ABCC4. A retrospective review was conducted for demographics, clinical status, dosing, and response. Fisher’s exact test was used for categorical data and Kruskal–Wallis test or Wilcoxon rank sum were used for continuous data.

Results:

A total of 15 patients received oral treprostinil and were consented. Their median age was 53 years, 73% were female, and 93% were White. The median total daily dose was 22.5 mg (13.5, 41) at last clinical observation. 40% of patients discontinued treatment with a majority due to adverse effects. Approximately 27% of patients had a loss-of-function variant in CYP2C8 (*1/*3 or *1/*4), whereas 47% of patients had a loss-of-function variant in CYP2C9 (*1/*2, *1/*3, or *2/*2). Minor allele frequencies for ABCC4 (rs1751034 and rs3742106) were 0.17 and 0.43, respectively. Survival analysis showed that increased CYP2C9 activity score was associated with decreased risk for treatment discontinuation [hazard ratio (HR): 0.13; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.02, 0.91; p = 0.04]. Genetic variants were not significantly associated with dosing.

Conclusion:

Genetic variants responsible for the metabolism and transport of oral treprostinil were common. Increased CYP2C9 activity score was associated with decreased risk for treatment discontinuation. However, dosing was not associated with genetic variants in metabolizing enzymes for treprostinil. Our findings suggest significant variability in treatment persistence to oral treprostinil, with pharmacogenomics being a potentially important contributor. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
Aislamiento comunitario como estrategia para la mitigación de un brote de COVID-19: el caso de Villa Azul
Authors: Esposito Melina , Bustos Soledad , Cardonetti Leandro , Pueyo Alvarado Maria Jose , Latorre Berenice , Parrilla Luis , Garcia Enio , Kreplak Nicolás , Konfino Jonatan
Published: April 2021

Introducción:

frente a la identificación de la ocurrencia de un brote de COVID-19 en el barrio Villa Azul (Buenos Aires, Argentina) y dadas las características de vulnerabilidad del barrio que dificultarían cumplir con el aislamiento domiciliario y las medidas de prevención, se implementó una estrategia de aislamiento comunitario como respuesta sanitaria al brote.

Objetivo:

describir la estrategia de aislamiento comunitario utilizada en el barrio Villa Azul para contener y mitigar un brote de COVID-19.

Métodos:

se identificaron los límites del barrio y se procedió al cierre del mismo con fuerzas de seguridad. Quedó permitida la circulación interna asumiendo que todos los habitantes eran casos sospechosos de COVID-19 o bien eran contactos estrechos de algún caso. En los días subsiguientes se continuó con la búsqueda activa de casos sospechosos, se realizaron los hisopados en el barrio y se obtuvieron los resultados a las 24 horas. Todos los días, luego de la recepción de los casos se les informaba el resultado a los casos negativos y se iba a las casas de los casos positivos para notificarlos del resultado y sugerirles el aislamiento fuera del barrio para cortar la cadena de contagios.

Resultados:

en el barrio Villa Azul entre el 22 de mayo y el 20 de junio, se registraron 731 casos sospechosos de los cuales 379 fueron casos confirmados de COVID-19 (tasa de positividad acumulada del 52.1%). La primera semana hubo entre 20 y 40 casos confirmados diarios con un índice de positividad entre el 66 y el 81% pero con el correr del tiempo como consecuencia de la estrategia descrita fueron bajando el número de casos por día y también la positividad. Se trasladaron 193 pacientes confirmados para aislarlos afuera del barrio. Fallecieron 3 personas (tasa de letalidad 0.8%).

Discusión:

la estrategia de aislamiento comunitario resultó efectiva para contener el brote de COVID-19 en el barrio Villa Azul.
Groundnut (Apios americana Medik) Extract Enhances the Osteoblast Differentiation of MC3T3-E1 Cells
Authors: Horie Masanori , Sugino Sakiko , Tada Atsumi , Nara Kazuhiro
Published: April 2021

The effects of groundnut ( Apios americana Medik) extract on osteoblast differentiation were examined using MC3T3-E1 cells. MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with the crude extract along with other differentiating reagents. The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of cells cultured in a differentiation medium supplemented with 0.01% crude groundnut extract was 1.5‐1.6 times higher than that of cells cultured in a differentiation medium without the extract. Crude groundnut extract was further separated into aqueous and methanol fractions. The methanol fraction enhanced ALP activity, osteocalcin, integrin-binding sialoprotein, and type I collagen expression, and calcium mineralization. Conversely, the aqueous fraction did not show such effects. Groundnut extract may enhance osteoblast differentiation, and this effect is likely conferred by water insoluble substance(s).
Pterygovaginal artery as a target of embolization before endoscopic skull base surgery
Authors: Yoshida Keisuke , Akiyama Takenori , Raz Eytan , Kamamoto Dai , Ozawa Hiroyuki , Toda Masahiro
Published: April 2021

Background

The pterygovaginal artery (PtVA), a recurrent branch of the internal maxillary artery (IMA), can be a feeder of skull base tumors. Preoperative embolization can help endoscopic resection of hypervascular lesions, which is performed under a narrow surgical space with restricted instrumental maneuverability.

Methods

We performed preoperative embolization in five cases with hypervascular skull base lesions supplied by the PtVA, four of which were resected via endoscopic endonasal approach. In two cases, selective PtVA embolization through the distal IMA was successfully conducted.

Results

In all the cases, intraoperative bleeding during endoscopic resection was easily controlled. The medial and lateral origins of the PtVA from the IMA were demonstrated by cone-beam CT images reconstructed from three-dimensional rotational angiography, and anastomoses around the eustachian tube and soft palate were visualized by superselective angiography.

Conclusions

The PtVA embolization can be an effective strategy before endoscopic skull base tumor resection. When embolizing through the PtVA, clinicians should be aware of its anatomical variations and dangerous anastomoses. Understanding the surrounding angioarchitecture by angiographic techniques helps ensure safe embolization.
Expert opinion on the UK standard of care for haemophilia patients with inhibitors: a modified Delphi consensus study
Authors: Khair Kate , Chalmers Elizabeth , Flannery Thuvia , Griffiths Annabel , Rowley Felicity , Tobaruela Guillermo , Chowdary Pratima
Published: April 2021

Background and Aims:

Despite advances in haemophilia care, inhibitor development remains a significant complication. Although viable treatment options exist, there is some divergence of opinion in the appropriate standard approach to care and goals of treatment. The aim of this study was to assess consensus on United Kingdom (UK) standard of care for child and adult haemophilia patients with inhibitors.

Methods:

A modified Delphi study was conducted using a two-round online survey. A haemophilia expert steering committee and published literature informed the Round 1 questionnaire. Invited participants included haematologists, haemophilia nurses and physiotherapists who had treated at least one haemophilia patient with inhibitors in the past 5 years. Consensus for 6-point Likert scale questions was pre-defined as ⩾70% participants selecting 1–2 (disagreement) or 5–6 (agreement).

Results:

In all, 46.7% and 35.9% questions achieved consensus in Rounds 1 ( n = 41) and 2 ( n = 34), respectively. Consensus was reached on the importance of improving quality of life (QoL) and reaching clinical goals such as bleed prevention, eradication of inhibitors and pain management. There was agreement on criteria constituting adequate/inadequate responses to immune tolerance induction (ITI) and the appropriate factor VIII dose to address suboptimal ITI response. Opinions varied on treatment aims for adults and children/adolescents, when to offer prophylaxis with bypassing agents and expectations of prophylaxis. Consensus was also lacking on appropriate treatment for mild/moderate patients with inhibitors.

Conclusion:

UK healthcare professionals appear to be aligned on the clinical goals and role of ITI when managing haemophilia patients with inhibitors, although novel treatment developments may require reassessment of these goals. Lack of consensus on prophylaxis with bypassing agents and management of mild/moderate cases identifies a need for further research to establish more comprehensive, evidence-based treatment guidance, particularly for those patients who are unable/prefer not to receive non-factor therapies.
Assessment of thrombotic risk during long-term treatment of immune thrombocytopenia with fostamatinib
Authors: Cooper Nichola , Altomare Ivy , Thomas Mark R. , Nicolson Phillip L. R. , Watson Steve P. , Markovtsov Vadim , Todd Leslie K. , Masuda Esteban , Bussel James B.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) are at risk of bleeding and, paradoxically, thromboembolic events (TEEs), irrespective of thrombocytopenia. The risk of thrombosis is increased by advanced age, obesity, and prothrombotic comorbidities: cancer, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and chronic kidney disease, among others. Certain ITP treatments further increase the risk of TEE, especially splenectomy and thrombopoietin receptor agonists. Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a key signaling molecule common to thromboembolic and hemostatic (in addition to inflammatory) pathways. Fostamatinib is an orally administered SYK inhibitor approved in the USA and Europe for treatment of chronic ITP in adults.

Methods:

The phase III and extension studies included heavily pretreated patients with long-standing ITP, many of whom had risk factors for thrombosis prior to initiating fostamatinib. This report describes long-term safety and efficacy of fostamatinib in 146 patients with up to 5 years of treatment, a total of 229 patient-years, and assesses the incidence of thromboembolic events (by standardized MedDRA query).

Results:

Platelet counts ⩾50,000/µL were achieved in 54% of patients and the safety profile was as described in the phase III clinical studies with no new toxicities observed over the 5 years of follow-up. The only TEE occurred in one patient (0.7%, or 0.44/100 patient-years), who experienced a mild transient ischemic attack. This is a much lower rate than might be expected in ITP patients.

Conclusion:

This report demonstrates durable efficacy and a very low incidence of TEE in patients receiving long-term treatment of ITP with the SYK inhibitor fostamatinib.

identifiers:

NCT02076399, NCT02076412, and NCT02077192.
Drug–drug interaction database for safe prescribing of systemic antifungal agents
Authors: Niazi-Ali Saarah , Atherton Graham T. , Walczak Marcin , Denning David W.
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

A drug–drug interaction (DDI) describes the influence of one drug upon another or the change in a drug’s effect on the body when the drug is taken together with a second drug. A DDI can delay, decrease or enhance absorption or metabolism of either drug. Several antifungal agents have a large number of potentially deleterious DDIs.

Methods:

The antifungal drug interactions database https://antifungalinteractions.org/was first launched in 2012 and is updated regularly. It is available as web and app versions to allow information on potential drug interactions with antifungals with a version for patients and another for health professionals. A new and updated database and interface with apps was created in 2019. This allows clinicians and patients to rapidly check for DDIs. The database is fully referenced to allow the user to access further information if needed. Currently DDIs for fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, isavuconazole, terbinafine, amphotericin B, caspofungin, micafungin and anidulafungin are cross-referenced against 2398 other licensed drugs, a total of nearly 17,000 potential DDIs.

Results:

The database records 541 potentially severe DDIs, 1129 moderate and 1015 mild DDIs, a total of 2685 (15.9%).

Conclusion:

As the online database and apps are free to use, we hope that widespread acceptance and usage will reduce medical misadventure and iatrogenic harm from unconsidered DDIs.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor metastasis to the ovary: A case report
Authors: Yamaguchi Takahisa , Kinoshita Jun , Saito Hiroto , Shimada Mari , Terai Shiro , Moriyama Hideki , Okamoto Koichi , Nakamura Keishi , Tajima Hidehiro , Ninomiya Itasu , Mizuno Yasutsugu , Nakada Satoko , Fushida Sachio
Published: April 2021

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. The major site of metastasis for gastrointestinal stromal tumors is the liver or peritoneum, while metastasis to the ovary is exceptionally rare. A 53-year-old woman visited the hospital for bloating and anorexia and was diagnosed with a huge gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor and peritoneal metastasis in the pelvis on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and abdominal enhanced computed tomography. After administration of imatinib, the tumor was significantly reduced, and we performed laparoscopic pelvic tumor resection and open proximal gastrectomy with transverse colectomy. Intraoperatively, the pelvic tumor was found to be an ovarian tumor. Microscopic examination confirmed a gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor with ovarian metastasis. In conclusion, we experienced a rare case of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor with ovarian metastasis. Preoperative administration of imatinib was successful and radical resection was achieved. Although pelvic tumors are difficult to differentiate preoperatively, the possibility of ovarian metastasis from gastrointestinal stromal tumor should be considered.
The Effect of Collaborative Supervision Approaches and Collegial Supervision Techniques on Teacher Intensity Using Performance-Based Learning
Authors: Wiyono Bambang Budi , Rasyad Ach. , Maisyaroh
Published: April 2021

This study aims to examine the effect of collaborative supervision approaches and collegial supervision techniques on teacher intensity using performance-based learning in the learning process. In addition, its purpose is also to examine the impact on student learning outcomes. This study was conducted in East Java, Indonesia, with a descriptive correlational research design. The research samples were obtained in three cities, namely Malang, Blitar, and Batu, with a total sample of 146 primary education teachers. The data collection techniques used in this research were questionnaires and documentation, while the data analysis techniques used were descriptive statistics, product-moment correlation, regression and path analysis. The results show that the collaborative supervision approach and collegial supervision techniques have a significant influence on performance-based learning, but has no effect on student learning outcomes, either directly or indirectly. Performance-based learning applied by teachers strongly affects students’ learning outcomes.
Identity Politics, Solidarities and Development in Jaunsar Bawar: A ‘Scheduled Tribe Area’
Authors: Kumari Vandana , Srivastava Vinay Kumar , Sahani Ramesh
Published: April 2021

Identities make solidarities of one variety while they disrupt larger solidarities. Identities also are socially constructed by political leaders and the state. Jaunsar-Bawar is declared as a ‘Scheduled Tribe Area’ by the government of India. Hence, those living in the region even when they identify themselves as belonging to privileged castes enjoy the benefits of being categorised as ‘Scheduled Tribes’or STs. These privileged castes have come to dominate politics in the region and are depriving the really deprived Scheduled Castes of the benefits of development. The latter is becoming politically restive and are resisting upper-caste dominance. This article endeavours to study how the politics of identities affect the course of development along with the dynamics of conflict based on fieldwork data collected from the region.
A Study on Body Composition, Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Levels Among Bengali Hindu and Santals Using Cultural Consonance Model
Authors: Kanrar Priyanka , Som Nivedita , Roy Subho
Published: April 2021

We examined how the perception/beliefs towards lifestyle and the actual lifestyle are related to body composition, blood pressure and blood sugar levels among Santals and Hindu caste populations using the cultural consonance model.

The study involved 210 individuals (109 Bengali Hindu and 101 Santals), aged 18–50 years living in the city of Howrah, West Bengal, India. Principal component analyses were performed to extract the components from the variables used in perception towards lifestyle. Multiple linear regression analyses and multivariate analysis of covariance were used to understand association of body composition, blood pressure and blood sugar levels with both the perception towards and actual lifestyle and ethnicity, respectively.

Results showed that there is a difference between perception towards and actual pattern of lifestyle among the members of two ethnic groups, indicating low cultural consonance. However, both the variables were associated with body composition, blood pressure and blood sugar levels, but not ethnicity, after removing the effects of socio-demographic and lifestyle variables.

We conclude that shared knowledge and perception towards healthy lifestyle among individuals, perhaps encoded in own culture, often fail to get translated in actual lifestyle pattern and eventually affect physical health.
Statistical Methods in Human Resource Research: Dearth or Diversity? Evidence from Published Literature
Authors: Mutua Mbithi
Published: April 2021

This article attempts to find out if there is breadth in application of quantitative techniques in published literature within the field of human resource management (HRM). In addition, it investigates the holistic use of specific categories of statistics, and if there are categories that are neglected. The study utilises a combination of research questions and hypotheses. The broad categories of statistics that this study focussed on include descriptive, data science statistics, exploratory graphical, advanced statistics such as structural equation modelling, Bayesian statistics and inferential statistics. It goes further to study application of machine learning statistics in HRM research. Using archival methodology, the article utilises a sample of 120 journal papers to answer formulated research questions and hypotheses. Descriptive statistics, exploratory graphical analysis and inferential statistics are used in the analysis. The findings indicate that there are neglected statistics in HRM research. Overall, most statistical categories are underutilised. HRM journal editors, researchers and practitioners must stock HRM methodological toolbox.
Speech Intelligibility and Spatial Release From Masking Improvements Using Spatial Noise Reduction Algorithms in Bimodal Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Zedan Ayham , Jürgens Tim , Williges Ben , Kollmeier Birger , Wiebe Konstantin , Galindo Julio , Wesarg Thomas
Published: April 2021

This study investigated the speech intelligibility benefit of using two different spatial noise reduction algorithms in cochlear implant (CI) users who use a hearing aid (HA) on the contralateral side (bimodal CI users). The study controlled for head movements by using head-related impulse responses to simulate a realistic cafeteria scenario and controlled for HA and CI manufacturer differences by using the master hearing aid platform (MHA) to apply both hearing loss compensation and the noise reduction algorithms (beamformers). Ten bimodal CI users with moderate to severe hearing loss contralateral to their CI participated in the study, and data from nine listeners were included in the data analysis. The beamformers evaluated were the adaptive differential microphones (ADM) implemented independently on each side of the listener and the (binaurally implemented) minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR). For frontal speech and stationary noise from either left or right, an improvement (reduction) of the speech reception threshold of 5.4 dB and 5.5 dB was observed using the ADM, and 6.4 dB and 7.0 dB using the MVDR, respectively. As expected, no improvement was observed for either algorithm for colocated speech and noise. In a 20-talker babble noise scenario, the benefit observed was 3.5 dB for ADM and 7.5 dB for MVDR. The binaural MVDR algorithm outperformed the bilaterally applied monaural ADM. These results encourage the use of beamformer algorithms such as the ADM and MVDR by bimodal CI users in everyday life scenarios.
Effect of Speech-to-Noise Ratio and Luminance on a Range of Current and Potential Pupil Response Measures to Assess Listening Effort
Authors: Książek Patrycja , Zekveld Adriana A. , Wendt Dorothea , Fiedler Lorenz , Lunner Thomas , Kramer Sophia E.
Published: April 2021

In hearing research, pupillometry is an established method of studying listening effort. The focus of this study was to evaluate several pupil measures extracted from the Task-Evoked Pupil Responses (TEPRs) in speech-in-noise test. A range of analysis approaches was applied to extract these pupil measures, namely (a) pupil peak dilation (PPD); (b) mean pupil dilation (MPD); (c) index of pupillary activity; (d) growth curve analysis (GCA); and (e) principal component analysis (PCA). The effect of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR; Data Set A: –20 dB, –10 dB, +5 dB SNR) and luminance (Data Set B: 0.1 cd/m2, 360 cd/m2) on the TEPRs were investigated. Data Sets A and B were recorded during a speech-in-noise test and included TEPRs from 33 and 27 normal-hearing native Dutch speakers, respectively. The main results were as follows: (a) A significant effect of SNR was revealed for all pupil measures extracted in the time domain (PPD, MPD, GCA, PCA); (b) Two time series analysis approaches (GCA, PCA) provided modeled temporal profiles of TEPRs (GCA); and time windows spanning subtasks performed in a speech-in-noise test (PCA); and (c) All pupil measures revealed a significant effect of luminance. In conclusion, multiple pupil measures showed similar effects of SNR, suggesting that effort may be reflected in multiple aspects of TEPR. Moreover, a direct analysis of the pupil time course seems to provide a more holistic view of TEPRs, yet further research is needed to understand and interpret its measures. Further research is also required to find pupil measures less sensitive to changes in luminance.
LSD1 defines erythroleukemia metabolism by controlling the lineage-specific transcription factors GATA1 and C/EBPα
Authors: Kohrogi Kensaku , Hino Shinjiro , Sakamoto Akihisa , Anan Kotaro , Takase Ryuta , Araki Hirotaka , Hino Yuko , Araki Kazutaka , Sato Tetsuya , Nakamura Kimitoshi , Nakao Mitsuyoshi
Published: April 2021

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogenous malignancy characterized by distinct lineage subtypes and various genetic/epigenetic alterations. As with other neoplasms, AML cells have well-known aerobic glycolysis, but metabolic variations depending on cellular lineages also exist. Lysine-specific demethylase-1 (LSD1) has been reported to be crucial for human leukemogenesis, which is currently one of the emerging therapeutic targets. However, metabolic roles of LSD1 and lineage-dependent factors remain to be elucidated in AML cells. Here, we show that LSD1 directs a hematopoietic lineage-specific metabolic program in AML subtypes. Erythroid leukemia (EL) cells particularly showed activated glycolysis and high expression of LSD1 in both AML cell lines and clinical samples. Transcriptome, chromatin immunoprecipitation–sequencing, and metabolomic analyses revealed that LSD1 was essential not only for glycolysis but also for heme synthesis, the most characteristic metabolic pathway of erythroid origin. Notably, LSD1 stabilized the erythroid transcription factor GATA1, which directly enhanced the expression of glycolysis and heme synthesis genes. In contrast, LSD1 epigenetically downregulated the granulo-monocytic transcription factor C/EBPα. Thus, the use of LSD1 knockdown or chemical inhibitor dominated C/EBPα instead of GATA1 in EL cells, resulting in metabolic shifts and growth arrest. Furthermore, GATA1 suppressed the gene encoding C/EBPα that then acted as a repressor of GATA1 target genes. Collectively, we conclude that LSD1 shapes metabolic phenotypes in EL cells by balancing these lineage-specific transcription factors and that LSD1 inhibitors pharmacologically cause lineage-dependent metabolic remodeling.
Restoring a butterfly hot spot by large ungulates refaunation: the case of the Milovice military training range, Czech Republic
Authors: Konvička Martin , Ričl David , Vodičková Veronika , Beneš Jiří , Jirků Miloslav
Published: April 2021

Background

Refaunation/rewilding by large ungulates represents a cost-efficient approach to managing natural biotopes and may be particularly useful for areas whose biodiversity depends on disturbance dynamics and is imperilled by successional changes. To study impacts of refaunation on invertebrates, we focused on butterflies inhabiting the former military training range Milovice, Czech Republic, refaunated since 2015 by a combination of Exmoor pony (“wild” horse), Tauros cattle (“aurochs”), and European wisent.

Methods

We analysed butterfly presence-absence patterns immediately after the military use termination (early 1990s), prior to the refaunation (2009), and after it (2016–19); and current abundance data gained by monitoring butterflies at refaunated and neglected plots. We used correspondence analysis for the presence-absence comparison and canonical correspondence analysis for the current monitoring, and related results of both ordination methods to the life history and climatic traits, and conservation-related attributes, of recorded butterflies.

Results

Following the termination of military use, several poorly mobile species inclining towards oceanic climates were lost. Newly gained are mobile species preferring warmer continental conditions. The refaunated plots hosted higher butterfly species richness and abundances. Larger-bodied butterflies developing on coarse grasses and shrubs inclined towards neglected plots, whereas refaunated plots supported smaller species developing on small forbs.

Conclusion

The changes in species composition following the cessation of military use were attributable to successional change, coupled with changes in species pool operating at larger scales. By blocking succession, large ungulates support butterflies depending on competitively poor plants. Restoring large ungulates populations represents a great hope for conserving specialised insects, provided that settings of the projects, and locally adapted ungulate densities, do not deplete resources for species with often contrasting requirements.
Massive hemothorax in a pregnant patient with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Hashimoto Kumiko , Nomata Yuji , Fukui Takayuki , Takada Akira , Narita Kunio
Published: April 2021

Background

Reports of spontaneous hemothorax in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 are scarce despite the severe complication. We herein present the first case of hemothorax in a neurofibromatosis type 1 patient during pregnancy and discuss the difficulty associated with its diagnosis and treatment.

Case presentation

A 39-year-old female at 34 weeks gestation presented with sudden left back pain and dyspnea. Chest radiography revealed massive left pleural effusion. Computed tomography showed bleeding from the intercostal artery. Although the patient appeared hemodynamically stable, the fetus was in a critical condition. Emergency caesarean section was performed within 1 hour. Subsequently, we performed endovascular coil embolization of the intercostal artery. While this intensive treatment saved the patient, her fetus could not be rescued.

Conclusions

Patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 may develop massive hemothorax without gross lesions. In late pregnancy, sufficient infusion and quick hemostasis are essential and can be lifesaving.
Thyroid hemiagenesis with a TI-RADS 2 nodule in the contralateral lobe
Authors: Sereke Senai Goitom , Oriekot Anthony , Bongomin Felix
Published: April 2021

Background

Thyroid hemiagenesis is a rare congenital anomaly in which one lobe of the thyroid gland fails to develop. There is an increased incidence of associated thyroid disorders in patients with thyroid hemiagenesis.

Case presentation

A 32-year-old Ugandan woman presented with a complaint of painless neck swelling of 3-months duration. The swelling was associated with a globus sensation. There was no history of thyroid – related problems or treatment prior to this presentation. Physical examination demonstrated a mobile right thyroid swelling without an obvious nodular contour. Neck ultrasound showed an absent left lobe of thyroid gland, a right lobe with a solitary nodule scoring two points on the Thyroid Imaging, Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) and an isthmus in situ. Extensive search for possible ectopic thyroid tissue was negative. She was biochemically euthyroid. The patient was counseled about thyroid hemiagenesis and was put on a regular follow up in the clinic for the TI-RADS 2 nodule.

Conclusion

Thyroid hemiagenesis is often associated with other thyroid disorders. Its diagnosis should prompt an active search for other associated morphological or functional thyroid abnormalities.
Epigenome-wide association study of kidney function identifies trans-ethnic and ethnic-specific loci
Authors:   NHLBI Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) Consortium, TOPMed MESA Multi-Omics Working Group, Breeze Charles E. , Batorsky Anna , Lee Mi Kyeong , Szeto Mindy D. , Xu Xiaoguang , McCartney Daniel L. , Jiang Rong , Patki Amit , Kramer Holly J. , Eales James M. , Raffield Laura , Lange Leslie , Lange Ethan , Durda Peter , Liu Yongmei , Tracy Russ P. , Van Den Berg David , Evans Kathryn L. , Kraus William E. , Shah Svati , Tiwari Hermant K. , Hou Lifang , Whitsel Eric A. , Jiang Xiao , Charchar Fadi J. , Baccarelli Andrea A. , Rich Stephen S. , Morris Andrew P. , Irvin Marguerite R. , Arnett Donna K. , Hauser Elizabeth R. , Rotter Jerome I. , Correa Adolfo , Hayward Caroline , Horvath Steve , Marioni Riccardo E. , Tomaszewski Maciej , Beck Stephan , Berndt Sonja I. , London Stephanie J. , Mychaleckyj Josyf C. , Franceschini Nora
Published: April 2021

Background

DNA methylation (DNAm) is associated with gene regulation and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a measure of kidney function. Decreased eGFR is more common among US Hispanics and African Americans. The causes for this are poorly understood. We aimed to identify trans-ethnic and ethnic-specific differentially methylated positions (DMPs) associated with eGFR using an agnostic, genome-wide approach.

Methods

The study included up to 5428 participants from multi-ethnic studies for discovery and 8109 participants for replication. We tested the associations between whole blood DNAm and eGFR using beta values from Illumina 450K or EPIC arrays. Ethnicity-stratified analyses were performed using linear mixed models adjusting for age, sex, smoking, and study-specific and technical variables. Summary results were meta-analyzed within and across ethnicities. Findings were assessed using integrative epigenomics methods and pathway analyses.

Results

We identified 93 DMPs associated with eGFR at an FDR of 0.05 and replicated 13 and 1 DMPs across independent samples in trans-ethnic and African American meta-analyses, respectively. The study also validated 6 previously published DMPs. Identified DMPs showed significant overlap enrichment with DNase I hypersensitive sites in kidney tissue, sites associated with the expression of proximal genes, and transcription factor motifs and pathways associated with kidney tissue and kidney development.

Conclusions

We uncovered trans-ethnic and ethnic-specific DMPs associated with eGFR, including DMPs enriched in regulatory elements in kidney tissue and pathways related to kidney development. These findings shed light on epigenetic mechanisms associated with kidney function, bridging the gap between population-specific eGFR-associated DNAm and tissue-specific regulatory context.
The potential of adipokines in identifying multiple trauma patients at risk of developing multiple organ dysfunction syndrome
Authors: Haupt Julian , Krysiak Niels , Unger Marina , Bogner-Flatz Viktoria , Biberthaler Peter , Hanschen Marc , van Griensven Martijn , Haug Alexander T.
Published: April 2021

Background

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and the consecutive multiple organ failure (MOF) are severe and dreaded complications with a high mortality in multiple trauma patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of the adipokines leptin, resistin, interleukin-17A and interleukin-33 as possible biomarkers in the early posttraumatic inflammatory response and for identifying severely traumatized patients at risk of developing MODS.

Methods

In total, 14 multiple trauma patients with an injury severity score (ISS) ≥ 16 as well as a control group of 14 non-multiple trauma patients were included in this study and blood samples were taken at the time points 0, 6, 24, 48 and 72 h after admission. For the trauma patients, the SIRS and Denver MOF score were determined daily. The quantitative measurement of the plasma concentrations of the adipokines was performed using ELISA.

Results

In the statistical analysis, the multiple trauma patients showed statistically significant higher plasma concentrations of leptin, resistin, IL-17A and IL-33 compared to the control group. In addition, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between the concentrations of resistin, IL-17A and IL-33 and the corresponding SIRS scores and between the concentrations of resistin, IL-17A and IL-33 and the corresponding Denver MOF scores. Finally, ROC curve analysis revealed that the adipokines leptin and IL-17A are suitable diagnostic markers for the discrimination between multiple trauma patients with and without MOF.

Conclusions

Leptin and IL-17A could be suitable diagnostic markers to identify severely injured patients with a developing SIRS and MOF earlier, to adjust surgical therapy planning and intensive care.
Physico-chemical and antioxidant properties of barberry juice powder and its effervescent tablets
Authors: Naji-Tabasi Sara , Emadzadeh Bahareh , Shahidi-Noghabi Mostafa , Abbaspour Mohammadreza , Akbari Ehsan
Published: April 2021

Background

Barberry fruit is a good source of natural antioxidants and various functional compounds. Different concentrations of maltodextrin (10, 13, and 16% w/w) were used to produce spray-dried barberry juice powder and the powders (50, 60, and 70%) were applied to create effervescent tablets.

Results

The results showed that by increasing the amount of maltodextrin concentration, moisture, and water activity decreased (p < 0.05), but antioxidant activity increased. The barberry powder prepared with 13% (w/w) maltodextrin showed appropriate flowability, color, high antioxidant activity, and phenol content. The presence of high amounts of barberry powder in the tablet increased the disintegration time (1.02–4.03 min).

Conclusions

The tablet containing 60% barberry powder was selected as the best sample. Based on the results, barberry tablets with good color, high antioxidant activity, and phenolic compounds can be used as a ‘ready-to-drink’ product.
Choroidal vascularity index in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Loiudice Pasquale , Pellegrini Marco , Marinò Michele , Mazzi Barbara , Ionni Ilaria , Covello Giuseppe , Figus Michele , Nardi Marco , Casini Giamberto
Published: April 2021

Background

Hemodynamic changes have been observed in patients with Graves’ disease. The aim of our study was to evaluate choroidal vascular change using the choroidal vascularity index (CVI) in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO).

Methods

In this cross-sectional observational study, 40 patients affected by TAO were recruited. Forty healthy individuals, matched for age and sex, served as controls. Foveal enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography scans were obtained from all participants. Images were binarized using the ImageJ software and luminal area (LA) and total choroidal area (TCA) were measured. CVI was calculated as the proportion of LA to TCA. The relation between CVI or subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and clinical activity score, exophthalmometric value, diplopia status, gender, and age was evaluated.

Results

CVI was significantly higher in patients with TAO (P = 0.004). No significant difference was observed in SFCT (P = 0.200) and TCA (P = 0.153) comparing TAO patients and healthy controls. LA was significantly higher in TAO group (P = 0.045). On multiple regression analysis, CVI was associated with TCA (P = 0.043). No association was found between SFCT or CVI and TCA, clinical activity score, exophthalmometric value, Inami value, diplopia status, gender or age (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

This is the first study that has demonstrated an increase in CVI in eyes with TAO compared with healthy controls and has assessed its association with clinical features.