bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adult and neonate TSH blood spot reference intervals
Authors: Morris Thomas G , Layley Jonathan , Geevarghese Robin , Steele Lucille , Ssali Joshua , Mirzazadeh Mehdi
Published: June 2022

Background: Neonatal congenital hypothyroidism screening is performed by measuring thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in a dried blood spot (DBS) sample, whereas acquired hypothyroidism uses serum TSH. There is no established DBS TSH reference interval, but knowing this is useful, as some patients cannot tolerate venepuncture, so DBS collection is seen as an acceptable alternative. The aim of this study was to establish DBS TSH reference intervals in adults and neonates (day 5–8), and determine the relationship between serum and DBS TSH.Methods: Euthyroid adults, not on thyroid medication and with a normal haematocrit, were selected. If they had a paired lithium heparin sample, DBS were prepared by spotting 50 µL of whole blood onto filter paper. Dried blood spot TSH was measured using the PerkinElmer Neonatal hTSH kit on the GSP instrument and serum using the Abbott Architect assay. The relationship between DBS and serum TSH was analysed using Passing–Bablok regression and the adult DBS TSH reference interval calculated using transformed data. The neonatal reference interval was calculated from screening results using the non-parametric method.Results: Overall, 109 adult samples were included in the study (61 female). The Passing–Bablok regression was: DBS TSH = 0.68 × serum TSH + 0.07, and reference interval was 0.49–3.07 mU/L. The neonatal DBS reference interval was 0.40–4.10 mU/L from 8351 results.Conclusion: This study derived adult and neonate TSH DBS reference intervals using the GSP analyser and established the relationship between serum and DBS TSH. Knowing this information will allow for improved interpretation of DBS TSH results.
Doing Qualitative Research in a Controlled Site: Challenges, Lessons, and Strategies
Authors: Baffour Frank Darkwa , Francis Abraham P. , Chong Mark David , Harris Nonie
Published: June 2022

This paper reflects on the process of undertaking qualitative research with incarcerated individuals and prison staff in selected Ghana prisons. The challenges encountered during the planning, approval, and fieldwork stages, as well as measures adopted to address these challenges, have been discussed. The paper aims to serve as a guide to novel prison researchers in the sub-Saharan African context, given that the majority of studies on challenges and approaches to conducting prison research have come from jurisdictions outside the region. To this end, given the unique nature of the prison governance system in Ghana and other sub-Saharan African countries, this paper contributes to filling a knowledge gap in qualitative prison research.
The Impact of Suspect Resistance, Informational Justice, and Interpersonal Justice on Time Until Police Use of Physical Force: A Survival Analysis
Authors: Piza Eric L. , Sytsma Victoria A.
Published: June 2022

The current study applies Systematic Social observation (SSO) to body-worn camera (BWC) footage of use of physical force events in Newark, NJ. The analysis tests the effect of suspect resistance and police officer interpersonal and informational justice tactics on time until use of physical force in police-citizen encounters. The results indicate police officer actions have a greater effect on the time until physical force than does suspect resistance. Officer adherence to informational justice is negatively associated to the time until both first use of force and highest level of force. Suspect resistance did not achieve statistical significance in any model. This study has implications for research and police practice, and demonstrates the benefits of leveraging video footage in criminological research.
The Promise and Pitfalls of Transformational Leadership for Decreasing the Use of Out-of-School Suspensions and Reduce the Racial Discipline Gap
Authors: Ogwumike Ify , Rangel Virginia Snodgrass , Johnson Detra D.
Published: June 2022

This study sought to explore the extent to which and how principals can help decrease the use of out-of-school suspension and close the racial discipline gap. This study comprised a qualitative case study of a principal in an urban school district. Data derive from in-depth interviews with current and former campus and district leaders, historical data, and documents. The principal’s transformational actions, together with support from the district, helped to improve the school’s culture, and decreased the use of OSS, but were not sufficient to close the racial discipline gap.
Grief Experiences of Families of Individuals Who Died Due to Coronavirus Disease-19: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Kuş Betül , Doğan Aydan , Akarsu Rukiye H , Yalman Eylem
Published: June 2022

The fear of contracting the disease, introduction of practices such as quarantine, social isolation, and curfew to prevent its transmission, and effects of experiencing a loss due to this disease are experienced differently by different people. The empirical phenomenological approach will be used to describe, explain, and analyze the experiences of the family members of individuals who lost their lives due to COVID-19. This study was created in accordance with COREQ Statement Checklist. The themes obtained from the interviews are “death in isolation”, “changing cultural–religious practices that cannot be performed”, “not being able to say goodbye”.This transformed grieving process caused by the pandemic may create unique psychosocial needs among family members. To meet these needs, planning and organizing complex grief therapy, speech therapies, expressive supportive counseling, and grief recovery programs is recommended.
Cultivating Effective Marketing Student Teams: Making Instructors’ Tacit Theories Visible
Authors: Lindsay Sophie , Wagstaff Peter , Jevons Colin , Cruz Angela Gracia B.
Published: June 2022

Teamwork skills are important contributors to classroom learning outcomes and graduate employability. Although much has been reported in the literature about the components and characteristics of effective marketing student teams, less is known about how such knowledge is conceptualized and cultivated by frontline marketing instructors. This study applies a perspective of tacit theory to in-depth interviews with frontline instructors in undergraduate marketing courses. Our findings, summarized in a framework of adaptive cultivation of effective teams (ACET), highlight how instructors perceive effective teamwork as a dynamic interaction between three interwoven components of team effectiveness (team composition, team member behavior, and team culture) and adjust their interventions across these components. Overall, this study uncovers instructors’ tacit theories of cultivating effective marketing student teams, and how these tacit theories impact in-class practices.
Application of Autonomous Vehicles for Automated Roadside Safety Assessment
Authors: Manasreh Dmitry , Nazzal Munir D. , Talha Sk Abu , Khanapuri Eshaan , Sharma Rajnikant , Kim Donghoon
Published: June 2022

Road edge drop-off has well known impacts on the safety of the traveling public and roadway service life. Continuous inspection of roadsides is therefore needed to monitor their condition. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are increasing in number and have the potential to be used for road and roadside condition data collection. This study explored the use of AVs to assess road edge drop-off. To this end, the ability and accuracy of a research grade autonomous vehicle platform built on a passenger car was used to determine road edge drop-off. Data were collected for the roadside along a state highway in Ohio using the different sensors of the vehicle platform, including a Light Detection and Ranging (lidar) sensor. A 160-m (525-ft) long section of the highway was selected and surveyed using a high accuracy stationary terrestrial laser scanner to obtain the topographic map of the highway and its sides. The lidar data were analyzed using fully automated deep learning methods to determine the edge drop-off severity along the selected section. The analyzed lidar data were compared with those obtained using the high accuracy stationary terrestrial laser scanner. The results of this study showed that the autonomous vehicle platform can be used successfully to assess the road edge drop-off with excellent accuracy, particularly when using end-to-end deep learning methods for analyzing the collected data.
Evaluation of Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Data in Airfield Pavement Crack Detection and Rating
Authors: Sourav Md Abdullah All , Mahedi Masrur , Ceylan Halil , Kim Sunghwan , Brooks Colin , Peshkin David , Dobson Richard , Brynick Matthew
Published: June 2022

Current practice for airport Pavement Management Program (PMP) inspection relies on visual surveys and manual interpretation of reports and sketches prepared by inspectors in the field to quantify pavement conditions using the Pavement Condition Index method set forth in ASTM D5340. In recent years, several attempts have been made, both by the industry and by airport operators, to use small Uncrewed (Unpersonned/Unmanned) Aircraft Systems (sUAS), or “drones,” to conduct various types of imaging and inspection of airport pavements. As part of a comprehensive study on the use of such sUAS to evaluate airfield pavement conditions, the objectives of this study were to assess the performance of various sUAS platforms and sensors in detecting and rating a subset of crack-based pavement distresses and to evaluate the use of a combination of different sUAS datasets to complement current methods used to support airport PMP. Two airports in Michigan were selected for sUAS data collection, and five sUAS platforms equipped with eight different sensors were flown at these airports at different altitudes to collect red, green, and blue (RGB) optical and thermal data at different resolutions. RGB orthophotos, digital elevation models, and thermal images were visually analyzed to study their usefulness in detecting and rating longitudinal and transverse cracks in flexible/asphalt pavements and longitudinal, transverse, and diagonal cracks, corner breaks, and durability cracks in rigid/concrete pavements. This study demonstrated the capability of using sUAS data in detecting and rating multiple crack-related distresses in both flexible and rigid airfield pavement systems.
Ultrafine Particle Ground-Level Impacts During Aircraft Approach and Climb-out Operations at a Major Cargo Hub
Authors: Loehr Maryssa , Turner Jay
Published: June 2022

Ultrafine particles (UFP) contribute to adverse health outcomes such as asthma, obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, and lung cancer. Recent research draws attention to elevated ambient UFP number concentrations near airports. In this study, high time-resolution UFP measurements were conducted along public roads near Mohammad Ali International Airport (SDF; Louisville, KY) which is a commercial passenger airport and a major air cargo hub. Short-duration (∼3 h) measurements with two instrumented vehicles were designed and executed to capitalize on the distinct features of the air cargo hub including periods of high flight activity (and either all landings or all take-offs) at night and early morning when the atmospheric mixing layer depth is shallow. We present preliminary measurements for quantifying individual aircraft contributions and showcase the complexities involved in interpreting these data. For example, during periods with high arrivals frequency, UFP plumes from multiple aircraft on approach are superposed and it is challenging to apportion impacts to individual aircraft. Ground-level impacts for individual aircraft on climb-out are difficult to discern because the planes rapidly ascend above the atmospheric mixed layer height and take different flight paths soon after take-off. Elevated UFP concentrations are observed downwind of the airport, in some cases admixed with approach/climb-out emissions. Although from these data UFP concentrations are difficult to associate with specific aircraft characteristics, UFP concentrations are elevated downwind of the airport. These impacts decrease with increasing distance from the airport yet are clearly discernible at least 3 km downwind.
Non-Destructive Testing in Quality Assurance of Concrete for Assessing Production Uniformity
Authors: Saremi Setare G. , Goulias Dimitrios G. , Akhter Anjuman Ara
Published: June 2022

Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods can be particularly valuable in assessing concrete quality at early ages as they are associated with reduced testing time and cost. A national study focusing on the potential use of NDT in quality assurance (QA) of concrete has recommended the adoption and/or use of such testing methods when these have low level of testing variability. Thus, objective of this study was to build on such recommendation and assess the response of specific well-developed and mature NDT methods in relation to their testing variability for detecting such production defects such as honeycombing and segregation. Recognizing the extensive knowledge and experience in assessing concrete with such methods over the years, the selected NDT methods considered were: ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV); resonant frequency analysis (RFA); and, rebound hammer. Each of these NDT methods could be used for a specific assessment within QA as identified later on within the manuscript. The results indicated that indeed UPV is able to identify the presence of such defects with acceptable accuracy and repeatability. RFA also provided acceptable testing variability and thus can be used as complementary assessment to UPV in both lab and field-cured samples. The rebound hammer, as expected, was characterized with high testing variability and thus its use could be limited to a quick and only initial forensic assessment. Overall, the use of these NDT methods in QA will provide the opportunity to test a larger portion of concrete without a significant increase in QA cost and testing time.
Nurse Practitioners Navigating the Consequences of Directives, Policies, and Recommendations Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic in Long-Term Care Homes
Authors: McGilton Katherine S. , Krassikova Alexandra , Wills Aria , Durante Vanessa , Yeung Lydia , Vellani Shirin , Sidani Souraya , Escrig-Pinol Astrid
Published: June 2022

Objectives

New models for the workforce are required in long-term care (LTC) homes, as was made evident during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Nurse Practitioner (NP)-led models of care represent an effective solution. This study explored NPs’ roles in supporting LTC homes as changes in directives, policies, and recommendations related to COVID-19 were introduced.

Design

Qualitative exploratory study.

Context

Thirteen NPs working in LTC homes in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted in March/April 2021. A five-step inductive thematic analysis was applied.

Findings

Analysis generated four themes: leading the COVID-19 vaccine rollout; promoting staff wellbeing related to COVID-19 fatigue; addressing complexities of new admissions; and negotiating evolving collaborative relationships.

Conclusions

Nurse practitioners were instrumental in supporting LTC homes through COVID-19 regulatory changes producing unintended consequences. The NPs’ leadership in transforming care is equally essential in LTC homes as in other established healthcare settings, such as primary and acute care.
Pressure oscillation suppression and mode transition for supersonic cavity flows controlled by upstream mass injections
Authors: Zhang Chao , Xi Zhaojun , Li Renfu , Kong Ningliang
Published: June 2022

Direct numerical simulations were performed to investigate an active control strategy for supersonic (Mach 1.8 and 2.2) flows past a rectangle cavity with a length-to-depth ratio of 4. A steady mass injection is applied upstream of the cavity as the active control technique. The pressure oscillations are significantly suppressed by two mechanisms: (1) thickening and lifting of the cavity shear layer to alleviate downstream impingement with the cavity trailing edge and (2) weakening of the cavity shear layer instability. When the initial boundary layer thickness of the supersonic cavity flow is relatively small, a stronger mass injection leads to increased cavity shear layer thickening and uplift, increased weakening of the shear layer instability, and higher suppression of the pressure oscillations. When the Mach number equals 1.8, the dominant flow mode changes from the Rossiter II mode to the Rossiter III mode under active control, which is detected by the dynamic mode decomposition. However, the mode transition under active control substantially differs if the initial boundary layer thickness is relatively large, for which the pressure oscillation suppression controlled by the high-velocity upstream mass injection is not better than a low-velocity injection, owing to a higher shear layer instability. Mechanism (2) listed above is therefore more important than mechanism (1).
Multivariate Models of Performance Validity: The Erdodi Index Captures the Dual Nature of Non-Credible Responding (Continuous and Categorical)
Authors: Erdodi Laszlo A.
Published: June 2022

This study was designed to examine the classification accuracy of the Erdodi Index (EI-5), a novel method for aggregating validity indicators that takes into account both the number and extent of performance validity test (PVT) failures. Archival data were collected from a mixed clinical/forensic sample of 452 adults referred for neuropsychological assessment. The classification accuracy of the EI-5 was evaluated against established free-standing PVTs. The EI-5 achieved a good combination of sensitivity (.65) and specificity (.97), correctly classifying 92% of the sample. Its classification accuracy was comparable with that of another free-standing PVT. An indeterminate range between Pass and Fail emerged as a legitimate third outcome of performance validity assessment, indicating that the underlying construct is an inherently continuous variable. Results support the use of the EI model as a practical and psychometrically sound method of aggregating multiple embedded PVTs into a single-number summary of performance validity. Combining free-standing PVTs with the EI-5 resulted in a better separation between credible and non-credible profiles, demonstrating incremental validity. Findings are consistent with recent endorsements of a three-way outcome for PVTs ( Pass, Borderline, and Fail).
A Qualitative Examination of Interprofessional Teamwork for Infection Prevention: Development of a Model and Solutions
Authors: Gregory Megan E. , MacEwan Sarah R. , Sova Lindsey N. , Gaughan Alice A. , Scheck McAlearney Ann
Published: June 2022

Health care–associated infections (HAIs), such as central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), are associated with patient mortality and high costs to the health care system. These are largely preventable by practices such as prompt removal of central lines and Foley catheters. While seemingly straightforward, these practices require effective teamwork between physicians and nurses to be enacted successfully. Understanding the dynamics of interprofessional teamwork in the HAI prevention context requires further examination. We interviewed 420 participants (physicians, nursing, others) across 18 hospitals about interprofessional collaboration in this context. We propose an Input-Mediator-Output-Input (IMOI) model of interprofessional teamwork in the context of HAI prevention, suggesting that various organizational processes and structures facilitate specific teamwork attitudes, behaviors, and cognitions, which subsequently lead to HAI prevention outcomes including timeliness of line and Foley removal, ensuring sterile technique, and hand hygiene. We then propose strategies to improve interprofessional teamwork around HAI prevention.
Foot Self-Care Behaviour among People with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus Living in Rural Underserved Area of North India: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kumar Gupta Saurabh , Rastogi Ashu , Kaur Manmeet , Malhotra Sunita , Lakshmi P.V.M.
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to ascertain the foot self-care behaviour and its associated factors among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) living in the rural resource-constrained health setting of Punjab, North India. A community based cross sectional study was undertaken in the randomly selected underserved rural area of District Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, North India. A pre-validated Nottingham Assessment of Functional Footcare (NAFF) scale was administered to assess foot self-care behaviour, and participants were classified based on the percentage of a maximum possible score of 84 on the scale, as poor, if the score was <50%, satisfactory if score 50%-70% and >70% good foot self-care behaviour. A total of 700 participants’ responses were recorded. The study results revealed that 84% (588) of the respondents had poor, 16% (112) had satisfactory, and none were following good foot self-care behaviour. An outcome of multivariable logistics regression suggested satisfactory foot self-care behaviour was significantly associated with foot self-care education, with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 2.83 (95%, CI:1.62 - 4.93; p <0.01) among respondents who had received foot self-care education, literate than illiterate (aOR 2.50 95%, CI:1.31- 4.74; p <0.01) and women compared to men (aOR 1.69 95%, CI: 1.06 −2.70; p −0.26). This study revealed that foot self-care behaviours were alarmingly low among people with T2DM living in rural resource-constrained health settings of Punjab, North India, suggesting an urgent need to disseminate foot self-care education to prevent diabetes foot related complications.
Cardiac tamponade during pregnancy due to primary lung cancer: A case report
Authors: Ito Tomomichi , Watanabe Norikazu , Watanabe Mariko , Idei Urara , Yamanouchi Keiko , Sato Masamichi , Watanabe Masafumi , Nagase Satoru
Published: June 2022

We report a rare case of cardiac tamponade caused by lung cancer in a pregnant woman. A 32-year-old multiparous pregnant woman was admitted to the hospital at 15 weeks of gestation with a persistent cough and dyspnea. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a pericardial effusion with evidence of tamponade physiology. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a massive pericardial effusion and a left lung tumor. Pericardial tamponade was successfully treated using pericardiocentesis. She was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma stage IVB based on bronchoscopic lung biopsy, which showed adenocarcinoma and CT, which showed brain metastasis. Pregnancy was terminated at 18 weeks of gestation, followed by molecular-targeted therapy with alectinib hydrochloride and whole-brain irradiation. 24 months after treatment initiation the patient is alive without disease progression. Although pericardial tamponade caused by a malignant tumor during pregnancy is a rare and serious life-threatening condition, appropriate diagnosis and prompt treatment can improve maternal prognosis.
Self-care practices and correlates among patients with type 2 diabetes in Eastern Ethiopia: A hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Letta Shiferaw , Aga Fekadu , Assebe Yadeta Tesfaye , Geda Biftu , Dessie Yadeta
Published: June 2022

Objective:

This study investigated the level and correlates of self-care practices among patients with type 2 diabetes on follow-up in two public hospitals in Harar, Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods:

We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional study on adult patients with type 2 diabetes, surveying diabetes self-care practices using a 15-item Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities. Responses ranged from 0 to 7 days, and a composite score was computed representing the mean days of diabetes self-care practices. A generalized Poisson regression model with robust variance was used. The association between the diabetes self-care practices and correlates was examined using the incidence rate ratio with a 95% confidence level. The statistical significance was set at a p value of ⩽0.05.

Results:

This study included 879 patients with type 2 diabetes. The overall mean (standard deviation) diabetes self-care practices were 3.7 ± 1.1 days out of the recommended 7 days, indicating low self-care practices. After controlling for other variables, tertiary educational level (incidence rate ratio = 1.06; 95% confidence interval: 1.01, 1.12), adequate diabetes knowledge (incidence rate ratio = 1.04; 95% confidence interval: 1.00, 1.08), moderate (incidence rate ratio = 1.07; 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 1.11) and high perceived self-efficacy (incidence rate ratio = 1.14; 95% confidence interval: 1.09, 1.13) (incidence rate ratio = 1.07; 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 1.11), high to marginal food security (incidence rate ratio = 1.13; 95% confidence interval: 1.03, 1.24), and receiving dietary advice (incidence rate ratio = 1.11; 95% confidence interval: 0.06, 1.15) were positively correlated with diabetes self-care practices. A history of hospitalization, on the other hand, was found to be inversely correlated with diabetes self-care practices (incidence rate ratio = 0.94; 95% confidence interval: 0.88, 0.99).

Conclusion:

The study indicated that adherence of patients with type 2 diabetes to the recommended self-care practices was considerably low. Therefore, tailored diabetes self-management education to enhance self-efficacy and diabetes self-care practices must be in place. This can be achieved through the system or individual-based integrated intervention efforts.
Attitudes toward safe abortion care and its associated factors among health care providers working in public health facilities in eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Balcha Tegenu , Semahegn Agumasie , Tamiru Dawit , Yadeta Elias , Abdisa Lemesa , Tesfaye Gezahegn
Published: June 2022

Objectives:

The main aim of this study was to assess health care providers’ attitudes toward safe abortion services and its associated factors in public health facilities of Harar city, Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods:

Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 411 health care providers who were working at public health facilities in Harari regional state, in eastern Ethiopia. A simple random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires, and collected data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and then exported to SPSS version 26 for cleaning and analysis. Descriptive statistics, bivariable, and multivariable logistic regression analysis were carried out to compute the prevalence of the outcome variables and to identify factors associated with the outcome variable, respectively. Adjusted odds ratio at 95% confidence interval and p-value < 0.05 was used to declare a significant association.

Results:

More than half (58.4%, 95% confidence interval: 53.8–63.2) of the health care providers had a favorable attitude toward safe abortion care. Being male (adjusted odds ratio = 2.90; 95% confidence interval: 1.80–4.65), ever trained on safe abortion (adjusted odds ratio = 2.55; 95% confidence interval: 1.39–4.66), familiarity with the current abortion law of Ethiopia (adjusted odds ratio = 2.38; 95% confidence interval: 1.40–4.05), preference of unrestricted abortion law (adjusted odds ratio = 1.86; 95% confidence interval: 1.15–3.02), and being medical doctors or health officers (adjusted odds ratio = 1.90; 95% confidence interval: 1.06–3.41) were the factors significantly associated with health care providers’ favorable attitude toward safe abortion care.

Conclusion:

Approximately three in five of the health care providers working at public health facilities had a favorable attitude toward safe abortion care in eastern Ethiopia. We suggest giving pre-service or in-service training on safe abortion care and supporting health care providers to be familiar with the country’s abortion laws are crucial to improve health care providers’ attitudes toward safe abortion service in Ethiopia.
Party centralisation, internal cohesion and leadership security: How UK prime ministers compare to Japanese prime ministers
Authors: Heppell Timothy
Published: June 2022

This article considers UK prime ministers as leaders of their political parties. It evaluates the extent to which the three trends identified by Uchiyama in this issue, in relation to Japanese prime ministers, are replicated in the case of UK prime ministers. First, to what extent is the Japanese trend towards increasing party centralisation replicated within the UK Labour and Conservative parties? Second, to what extent is the Japanese trend of reduced factional influence and lower rebellion rates replicated in the case of the UK Labour and Conservative parties? Finally, is the association between leadership personalisation and party leadership security – i.e. how an approval rating of below 30 per cent will act as a trigger for the removal of an incumbent Japanese prime minister – replicated in the case of the UK Labour and Conservative parties?
Neo-cusp Reconstruction Procedure for Aortic Regurgitation Induced by Transcatheter Occluder Device for Ventricular Septal Defect Closure
Authors: Garekar Swati , Sheth Ronak , Mali Shivaji , Dhake Shyam , Mhatre Amit , Bind Dilip , Kandavel Dinesh , Soni Bharat , Malankar Dhananjay
Published: June 2022

Aortic regurgitation after transcatheter device closure of a perimembranous ventricular septal defect is a known complication. We present the case of an 11-year-old boy with severe aortic valve regurgitation due to cusp perforation complicating previous device closure of a ventricular septal defect. The patient underwent successful aortic valve repair (neo-cusp reconstruction technique) by replacement of a cusp and shaving off of a rim of the device 5 years after device closure.
A participatory e-planning model in the urban renewal of China: Implications of technologies in facilitating planning participation
Authors: Tian Li , Liu Jinxuan , Liang Yinlong , Wu Yaxin
Published: June 2022

While collaborative planning has gained popularity in addressing conflicts of interest in urban renewal, the development of information communication technologies has provided creative tools in participatory planning. To accommodate the needs of participatory e-planning, we designed a digital collaborative platform composed of four modules to establish a framework for all stakeholders to participate in the urban renewal process in China. By taking a village as a case study (hereafter referred to as village X), this research introduces the application of a digital platform in the renewal of an old village facilitated by a third party. Although the application of e-planning participation in the renewal of X village has been effective, its further application has encountered challenges, such as willingness, the capacity of the residents, and credibility, due to the lack of an institutionalized arrangement. Compared with the West, China has a long way to go in promoting public participation in urban renewal through institutional arrangements. Educating the public and deepening the understanding of local governments in the necessity of public participation should be the future task of urban planners in China. The limitations and further applications of digital platforms are also discussed.
Aberrant expansion of spontaneous splenic germinal centers induced by hallmark genetic lesions of aggressive lymphoma
Authors: Pindzola Grace M. , Razzaghi Raud , Tavory Rachel N. , Nguyen Hang T. , Morris Vivian M. , Li Moyi , Agarwal Shreya , Huang Bonnie , Okada Takaharu , Reinhardt Hans C. , Knittel Gero , Kashkar Hamid , Young Ryan M. , Pittaluga Stefania , Muppidi Jagan R.
Published: June 2022

Unique molecular vulnerabilities have been identified in the aggressive MCD/C5 genetic subclass of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, the premalignant cell-of-origin exhibiting MCD-like dependencies remains elusive. In this study, we examined animals carrying up to 4 hallmark genetic lesions found in MCD consisting of gain-of-function mutations in Myd88 and Cd79b, loss of Prdm1, and overexpression of BCL2. We discovered that expression of combinations of these alleles in vivo promoted a cell-intrinsic accumulation of B cells in spontaneous splenic germinal centers (GCs). As with MCD, these premalignant B cells were enriched for B-cell receptors (BCRs) with evidence of self-reactivity, displayed a de novo dependence on Tlr9, and were more sensitive to inhibition of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase. Mutant spontaneous splenic GC B cells (GCB) showed increased proliferation and IRF4 expression. Mice carrying all 4 genetic lesions showed a >50-fold expansion of spontaneous splenic GCs exhibiting aberrant histologic features with a dark zone immunophenotype and went on to develop DLBCL in the spleen with age. Thus, by combining multiple hallmark genetic alterations associated with MCD, our study identifies aberrant spontaneous splenic GCBs as a likely cell-of-origin for this aggressive genetic subtype of lymphoma.
Repeated inflammatory dural stimulation-induced cephalic allodynia causes alteration of gut microbial composition in rats
Authors: Miao Shuai , Tang Wenjing , Li Heng , Li Bozhi , Yang Chunxiao , Xie Wei , Wang Tao , Bai Wenhao , Gong Zihua , Dong Zhao , Yu Shengyuan
Published: June 2022

Background

Gut microbial dysbiosis and gut-brain axis dysfunction have been implicated in the pathophysiology of migraine. However, it is unclear whether migraine-related cephalic allodynia could induce the alteration of gut microbial composition.

Methods

A classic migraine rat model was established by repeated dural infusions of inflammatory soup (IS). Periorbital mechanical threshold and nociception-related behaviors were used to evaluate IS-induced cephalic allodynia and the preventive effect of topiramate. The alterations in gut microbial composition and potential metabolic pathways were investigated based on the results of 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Microbiota-related short-chain fatty acids and tryptophan metabolites were detected and quantified by mass spectrometry analysis.

Results

Repeated dural IS infusions induced cephalic allodynia (decreased mechanical threshold), migraine-like behaviors (increased immobility time and reduced moving distance), and microbial composition alteration, which were ameliorated by the treatment of topiramate. Decreased Lactobacillus was the most prominent biomarker genus in the IS-induced alteration of microbial composition. Additionally, IS infusions also enhanced metabolic pathways of the gut microbiota in butanoate, propanoate, and tryptophan, while the increased tryptophan-related metabolites indole-3-acetamide and tryptophol in feces could be the indicators.

Conclusions

Inflammatory dural stimulation-induced cephalic allodynia causes the alterations of gut microbiota profile and microbial metabolic pathways.
Transcriptomic analysis of tuberous root in two sweet potato varieties reveals the important genes and regulatory pathways in tuberous root development
Authors: Cai Zhaoqin , Cai Zhipeng , Huang Jingli , Wang Aiqin , Ntambiyukuri Aaron , Chen Bimei , Zheng Ganghui , Li Huifeng , Huang Yongmei , Zhan Jie , Xiao Dong , He Longfei
Published: June 2022

Background

Tuberous root formation and development is a complex process in sweet potato, which is regulated by multiple genes and environmental factors. However, the regulatory mechanism of tuberous root development is unclear.

Results

In this study, the transcriptome of fibrous roots (R0) and tuberous roots in three developmental stages (Rl, R2, R3) were analyzed in two sweet potato varieties, GJS-8 and XGH. A total of 22,914 and 24,446 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in GJS-8 and XGH respectively, 15,920 differential genes were shared by GJS-8 and XGH. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs shared by GJS-8 and XGH were mainly involved in “plant hormone signal transduction” “starch and sucrose metabolism” and “MAPK signal transduction”. Trihelix transcription factor (Tai6.25300) was found to be closely related to tuberous root enlargement by the comprehensive analysis of these DEGs and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA).

Conclusion

A hypothetical model of genetic regulatory network for tuberous root development of sweet potato is proposed, which emphasizes that some specific signal transduction pathways like “plant hormone signal transduction” “Ca2+signal” “MAPK signal transduction” and metabolic processes including “starch and sucrose metabolism” and “cell cycle and cell wall metabolism” are related to tuberous root development in sweet potato. These results provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of tuberous root development in sweet potato.
Genomic characterization of Streptococcus parasuis, a close relative of Streptococcus suis and also a potential opportunistic zoonotic pathogen
Authors: Guo Genglin , Wang Zhuohao , Li Quan , Yu Yanfei , Li Yubao , Tan Zhongming , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2022

Streptococcus parasuis (S. parasuis) is a close relative of Streptococcus suis (S. suis), composed of former members of S. suis serotypes 20, 22 and 26. S. parasuis could infect pigs and cows, and recently, human infection cases have been reported, making S. parasuis a potential opportunistic zoonotic pathogen. In this study, we analysed the genomic characteristics of S. parasuis, using pan-genome analysis, and compare some phenotypic determinants such as capsular polysaccharide, integrative conjugative elements, CRISPR-Cas system and pili, and predicted the potential virulence genes by associated analysis of the clinical condition of isolated source animals and genotypes. Furthermore, to discuss the relationship with S. suis, we compared these characteristics of S. parasuis with those of S. suis. We found that the characteristics of S. parasuis are similar to those of S. suis, both of them have “open” pan-genome, their antimicrobial resistance gene profiles are similar and a srtF pilus cluster of S. suis was identified in S. parasuis genome. But S. parasuis still have its unique characteristics, two novel pilus clusters are and three different type CRISPR-Cas system were found. Therefore, this study provides novel insights into the interspecific and intraspecific genetic characteristics of S. parasuis, which can be useful for further study of this opportunistic pathogen, such as serotyping, diagnostics, vaccine development, and study of the pathogenesis mechanism.
VisProDom: an interactive Shiny/R application for displaying protein domains with transcriptional features
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Zhang Xiaotian , Ding Shuangcheng , Huang Yujie , Wang Shengyong , Chen Huili , Chen Yuhang , Li Yuting
Published: June 2022

Background

Both the protein domains and transcript structures influence protein functional variation. The genomic location of both protein domains and transcript structural features can be described using the genomic coordinates of their encoded sequences. However, the coordinates of protein domains and transcriptional features often differ greatly, and it is difficult to view them in combination at the genome-wide level. In this paper, we describe the development of a new tool that allows users to visualize domains and transcript features together, using either built-in or uploaded genome datasets, and export publication-ready figures. 

Results

We developed a user-friendly, independent R package and Shiny web application named “VisProDom”. VisProDom consists of a genome-wide database containing entire annotated transcripts merged with annotated protein domains from the Pfam database. The built-in dataset includes 82 files, which merge genome general feature format (GFF) annotations with rpsblast tabular outputs from protein sequence searches in the Pfam database. Multiple genomes can be simultaneously screened for protein domains or transcript names. VisProDom includes step-by-step introductions and clickable elements for ease of use.

Conclusion

VisProDom can display hundreds of transcripts alongside protein domains and export figures in a publication-ready format. This makes it a valuable tool for molecular evolution and comparative genomics.
Methylene blue for vasodilatory shock in the intensive care unit: a retrospective, observational study
Authors: Naoum Emily E. , Dalia Adam A. , Roberts Russel J. , Devine Lauren T. , Ortoleva Jamel
Published: June 2022

Background

Refractory vasodilatory shock is a state of uncontrolled vasodilation associated with underlying inflammation and endothelial dysregulation. Rescue therapy for vasoplegia refractory to catecholamines includes methylene blue (MB) which restores vascular tone. We hypothesized that (1) at least 40% of critically ill patients would respond positively to MB administration and (2) that those who responded to MB would have a survival benefit.

Methods

This study was a retrospective review that included all adult patients admitted to an intensive care unit treated with MB for the indication of refractory vasodilatory shock. Responders to MB were identified as those with a ≥ 10% increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) within the first 1-2 hours after administration. We examined the association of mortality to the groups of responders versus non-responders to MB. A subgroup analysis in patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) was also performed.

Statistical calculations were performed in Microsoft Excel® (Redmond, WA, USA). Where appropriate, the comparison of averages and standard deviations of demographics, dosing, MAP, and reductions in vasopressor dosing were performed via Chi squared, Fisher's exact test, or two-tailed t-test with a p-value < 0.05 being considered as statistically significant. After using the F-test to assess for differences in variance, the proper two tailed t-test was used to compare SOFA scores among responders versus non-responders.

Results

A total of 223 patients were included in the responder analysis; 88 (39.5%) had a ≥ 10% increase in MAP post-MB administration that was not associated with a significant change in norepinephrine requirements between responders versus non-responders (p=0.41). There was a non-statistically significant trend (21.6% vs 14.8%, p=0.19) toward improved survival to hospital discharge in the MB responder group compared to the non-responder group. In 70 patients undergoing CRRT, there were 33 responders who were more likely to survive than those who were not (p = 0.0111).

Conclusions

In patients with refractory shock receiving MB, there is a non-statistically significant trend toward improved outcomes in responders based on a MAP increase >10%. Patients supported with CRRT who were identified as responders had decreased ICU mortality compared to non-responders.
A progressive three-state model to estimate time to cancer: a likelihood-based approach
Authors: Akwiwu Eddymurphy U. , Klausch Thomas , Jodal Henriette C. , Carvalho Beatriz , Løberg Magnus , Kalager Mette , Berkhof Johannes , Coupé Veerle M.H.
Published: June 2022

Background

To optimize colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and surveillance, information regarding the time-dependent risk of advanced adenomas (AA) to develop into CRC is crucial. However, since AA are removed after diagnosis, the time from AA to CRC cannot be observed in an ethically acceptable manner. We propose a statistical method to indirectly infer this time in a progressive three-state disease model using surveillance data.

Methods

Sixteen models were specified, with and without covariates. Parameters of the parametric time-to-event distributions from the adenoma-free state (AF) to AA and from AA to CRC were estimated simultaneously, by maximizing the likelihood function. Model performance was assessed via simulation. The methodology was applied to a random sample of 878 individuals from a Norwegian adenoma cohort.

Results

Estimates of the parameters of the time distributions are consistent and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs) have good coverage. For the Norwegian sample (AF: 78%, AA: 20%, CRC: 2%), a Weibull model for both transition times was selected as the final model based on information criteria. The mean time among those who have made the transition to CRC since AA onset within 50 years was estimated to be 4.80 years (95% CI: 0; 7.61). The 5-year and 10-year cumulative incidence of CRC from AA was 13.8% (95% CI: 7.8%;23.8%) and 15.4% (95% CI: 8.2%;34.0%), respectively.

Conclusions

The time-dependent risk from AA to CRC is crucial to explain differences in the outcomes of microsimulation models used for the optimization of CRC prevention. Our method allows for improving models by the inclusion of data-driven time distributions.
Frailty in older people: Rehabilitation Treatment Research Examining Separate Settings (FORTRESS): protocol for a hybrid type II stepped wedge, cluster, randomised trial
Authors: Block Heather , Annesley Alexandra , Lockwood Keri , Xu Linda , Cameron Ian D. , Laver Kate , Crotty Maria , Sherrington Catherine , Kifley Annette , Howard Kirsten , Pond Dimity , Nguyen Tuan A. , Kurrle Susan E.
Published: June 2022

Background

Frailty in older people is associated with increased risk of falls, longer length of stay in hospital, increased risk of institutionalisation and death. Frailty can be measured using validated tools. Multi-component frailty interventions are recommended in clinical practice guidelines but are not routinely implemented in clinical practice.

Methods

The Frailty in Older people: Rehabilitation, Treatment, Research Examining Separate Settings (FORTRESS) trial is a multisite, hybrid type II, stepped wedge, cluster, randomised trial with blinded assessment and intention-to-treat analysis being conducted in Australia. The study aims to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an embedded individualised multicomponent frailty intervention (commencing in hospital and continuing in the community) on readmissions, frailty and quality of life when compared with usual care. Frail older people admitted to study wards with no significant cognitive impairment, who are expected to return home after discharge, will be eligible to participate. Participants will receive extra sessions of physiotherapy, pharmacy, and dietetics during their admission. A Community Implementation Facilitator will coordinate implementation of the frailty management strategies and primary network liaison. The primary outcome is number of days of non-elective hospital readmissions during 12 month follow-up period. Secondary outcomes include frailty status measured using the FRAIL scale; quality of life measured using the EQ-5D-5L; and time-to-event for readmission and readmission rates. The total cost of delivering the intervention will be assessed, and cost-effectiveness analyses will be conducted. Economic evaluation will include analyses for health outcomes measured in terms of the main clinical outcomes. Implementation outcomes will be collected as part of a process evaluation. Recruitment commenced in 2020 and we are aiming to recruit 732 participants over the three-year duration of the study.

Discussion

This study will reveal whether intervening with frail older people to address factors contributing to frailty can reduce hospital readmissions and improve frailty status and quality of life. If the FORTRESS intervention provides a clinically significant and cost-effective result, it will demonstrate an improved approach to treating frail patients, both in hospital and when they return home.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12620000760976p. ANZCTR registered 24 July 2020.