bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downregulated luteolytic pathways in the transcriptome of early pregnancy bovine corpus luteum are mimicked by interferon-tau in vitro
Authors: Basavaraja Raghavendra , Drum Jessica N. , Sapuleni Jackson , Bibi Lonice , Friedlander Gilgi , Kumar Sai , Sartori Roberto , Meidan Rina
Published: June 2021

Background

Maintenance of the corpus luteum (CL) beyond the time of luteolysis is essential for establishing pregnancy. Identifying the distinct features of early pregnancy CL remains unresolved, hence we analyzed here the transcriptome of CL on day 18 pregnant (P) and non-pregnant (NP) cows using RNA-Seq. CL of P cows expressed ISGs, verifying exposure to the pregnancy recognition signal, interferon-tau (IFNT), whereas the CL of NP cows had elevated luteal progesterone levels, implying that luteolysis had not yet commenced.

Results

The DEGs, IPA, and metascape canonical pathways, along with GSEA analysis, differed markedly in the CL of P cows from those of NP cows, at the same day of the cycle. Both metascape and IPA identified similar significantly enriched pathways such as interferon alpha/beta, sonic hedgehog pathway, TNFA, EDN1, TGFB1, and PDGF. However, type-1 interferon and sonic hedgehog pathways were positively enriched whereas most of the enriched pathways were downregulated in the P compared to NP samples. Thirty-four % of these pathways are known to be elevated by PGF2A during luteolysis. Notably, selective DEGs in luteinized granulosa cells were modulated by IFNT in vitro in a similar manner to their regulation in the CL of P cows.

Conclusion

This study unraveled the unique transcriptomic signature of the IFNT-exposed, early pregnancy CL, highlighting the abundance of downregulated pathways known to be otherwise induced during luteolysis. These and IFNT-regulated in vitro pregnancy-specific DEGs suggest that IFNT contributes to the characteristics and maintenance of early pregnancy CL.
Implications of ACMG guidelines to identify high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients with hereditary cancer susceptibility syndromes (HCSS) in a highly consanguineous population
Authors: Aslam Sara , Shabana  , Ahmed Mehboob
Published: June 2021

Background

Hereditary cancer susceptibility syndrome (HCSS) contributes to the cancer predisposition at an early age, therefore, identification of HCSS has found to be crucial for surveillance, managing therapeutic interventions and refer the patients and their families for genetic counselling. The study aimed to identify ALL patients who meet the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) criteria and refer them for the genetic testing for HCSS as hereditary leukemia and hematologic malignancy syndrome, and to elucidate the significance of high consanguinity with the prevalence of inherited leukemia in Pakistani population.

Methods

A total of 300 acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients were recruited from the Children’s Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan from December 2018 to September 2019. A structured self-reporting questionnaire based on family and medical history of the disease was utilized for the data collection.

Results

In our cohort, 60.40% of ALL patients were identified to meet ACMG criteria. Among them, a large number of patients (40.65%) solely fulfil the criteria due to the presence of parental consanguinity. However, parental consanguinity showed protective impact on the onset at early age of disease [OD = 0.44 (0.25–0.77), p-value = 0.00] while, a family history of cancer increased the risk of cardiotoxicity [OD = 2.46 (1.15–5.24), p-value = 0.02]. Parental consanguinity shows no significant impact on the family history of cancer and the number of relatives with cancer.

Conclusions

More than 50% of the ALL patients were considered the strong candidates’ for genetic testing of HCSS in the Pakistani population, and parental consanguinity was the leading criteria fulfilled by the individuals when assessed through ACMG guidelines. Our study suggests revisiting ACMG guidelines, especially for the criterion of parental consanguinity, and formulating the score based criteria based on; genetic research, the toxicology profile, physical features, personal and family history of cancer for the identification of patients for the genetic testing.
Impact of COVID-19 on health-related behaviours, well-being and weight management
Authors: Avery Amanda , Toon Josef , Kent Jennifer , Holloway Laura , Lavin Jacquie , Bennett Sarah-Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

Background

Weight management is complex for people even in times of stability. Supporting individuals to develop strategies to maintain a healthier weight when there are additional life challenges may prevent relapse. This mixed-methods study describes the impact the COVID-19 restrictions had on adults engaged in weight management before and during the pandemic in order to determine helpful strategies.

Methods

Longitudinal data was captured from online surveys completed by Slimming World (SW) members 0–4 weeks after joining, October/November 2019, providing pre-joining and baseline (T0&T1), 3- (T2) and 6- month (T3-during COVID-19) data. Representatives from the general population, not attending a weight management service, completed the same questionnaires providing cross-sectional control data. All weights are self-reported. For this study, questions assessing the impact of the COVID-19 challenges on health-related behaviours and well-being are included comparing responses at T0/T1, T2 & T3. Longitudinal data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA and cross-sectional data, one-way independent ANOVAs to compare means. Comparisons between SW members and controls were determined using z-proportion tests.

Qualitative data generated was thematically analysed using a six-step approach to produce the key emerging themes.

Results

222 SW members completed all three surveys, achieving a weight loss of 7.7 ± 7.5%. They maintained positive health-related behaviour changes made since joining, including increased fruit and vegetables (p < 0.001), fewer sugary drinks (p < 0.001), cooking from scratch (p < 0.001) and increased activity levels (p < 0.001). Despite COVID-19 restrictions, they were still reporting improvements in all behaviours and had healthier scores than the controls on all but alcohol intake, although still within guidelines. Qualitative data indicated that the situation created various challenges to managing weight with fresh foods harder to access, comfort eating, drinking more alcohol, eating more sugary foods and snacking through boredom. However, some reported having more free time enabling better planning, more time to cook from scratch and increased physical activity.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the value of peer, group and online support and guidance for individuals to develop sustainable behaviour changes and a level of resilience. These strategies can then be drawn upon enabling maintenance of lifestyle changes and management of weight even in challenging times.
Surgical treatment of benign osteolytic lesions in the femoral head and neck: a systematic review
Authors: Shi Jingtian , Zhao Zhiqing , Yan Taiqiang , Guo Wei , Yang Rongli , Tang Xiaodong , Qu Huayi , Dong Sen
Published: June 2021

Background and objectives

Treatment of benign osteolytic lesions in the femoral head and neck can be extremely challenging, particularly in children with open physis or for aggressive tumors with pathological fracture. There remains the difficult management decision as to whether to perform complete excision of the involved area or only curettage. Moreover, there is no agreed consensus on the optimal approach to lesion access when performing curettage, which included the transcervical, open and direct approach. The current systematic review aims to provide guidance for selection of surgical methods in clinical practice by comparing the advantages and drawbacks of different procedures.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases were executed for human studies restricted to the English language. The search was filtered to include studies published from January 1980 to January 2020.

Results

A total of 33 articles including 274 patients were enrolled in the final analysis. The most common diagnosis was chondroblastoma (CBT) (104, 38.0%), followed by giant cell tumor (GCT) (56, 20.4%). There were 57 (20.8%) patients with pathological fracture. Intralesional curettage was performed in 257 (93.8%) patients with the local recurrence of 12.5% at the mean follow-up of 51.5 months. The patients who were presented with open physis or curetted via transcervical approach developed higher local recurrence in patients with CBT (P < 0.001). The local recurrence rate of GCT is 33.3% after curettage, while 8 of 9 (88.9%) patients with fracture were treated successfully with joint preservation. Two of 45 (4.4%) patients developed avascular necrosis (AVN) of femoral head after surgical hip dislocation. The reported Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) Score was comparable among patients with different approaches to curettage.

Conclusion

The majority of benign osteolytic lesions in the femoral head and neck can be treated with intralesional curettage with acceptable local tumor control and satisfactory function. The incidence of local recurrence might be decreased dramatically for lesion access under direct visualization. The native joint maintenance could be achieved even in patients with aggressive lesions presenting pathological fracture.
Reductions in endometriosis-associated pain among women treated with elagolix are consistent across a range of baseline characteristics reflective of real-world patients
Authors: Abrao Mauricio S. , Surrey Eric , Gordon Keith , Snabes Michael C. , Wang Hui , Ijacu Horia , Taylor Hugh S.
Published: June 2021

Background

Elagolix is an oral, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist, that significantly reduces dysmenorrhea and non-menstrual pelvic pain (NMPP) in women with moderate to severe endometriosis-associated pain.

Methods

Data were pooled from two 6-month, placebo-controlled, phase 3 studies (Elaris Endometriosis [EM]-I and II) in which 2 doses of elagolix were evaluated (150 mg once daily and 200 mg twice daily). Pooled data from > 1600 women, aged 18–49, were used to evaluate the efficacy of elagolix and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in prespecified subgroups of women with various baseline characteristics.

Results

Of the 1686 women treated, 1285 (76.2%) completed the studies. The percentages of women with clinically meaningful reductions in dysmenorrhea and NMPP were generally consistent by subgroup. Significant treatment by subgroup interaction was demonstrated for dysmenorrhea response in baseline analgesic use (p < 0.01) and previous history of pregnancy (p < 0.05) subgroups, and for NMPP response in the baseline NMPP score (p < 0.05) and history of pregnancy (p < 0.05) subgroups. Patient-reported reduction in pain at month 3 was significant across all subgroups taking elagolix 200 mg BID, and significant across most subgroups with elagolix 150 mg QD. Women across subgroups experienced improvement within each domain of the Endometriosis Health Profile-30 (EHP-30), although significant treatment by subgroup interactions were observed in several categories.

Conclusions

Elagolix was effective in reducing dysmenorrhea and NMPP, and improving HRQoL, compared with placebo across numerous subgroups of women with various baseline characteristics, covering a broad segment of the endometriosis disease and patient types.

Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01620528; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01931670.
Tipping the scales: a theoretical model to describe the differential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality
Authors: Saban Mor , Myers Vicki , Luxenburg Osnat , Wilf-Miron Rachel
Published: June 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in changes in almost every aspect of life. The fatal consequences of the pandemic have been clearly reported, with direct and indirect effects; however, there is some evidence of a positive secondary impact, such as fewer motor accidents, lower influenza burden and reduced air pollution.

Methods/model

We present a model to describe the differing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality, taking into account external pressures and internal resources and their relationship with resilience and health behaviors, which affect mortality risk, inspired by elements of the salutogenic model.

Individuals with lower resources and from more deprived communities are likely to be more negatively affected by the external changes occurring, while those with more resources may be more likely to experience the benefits. Both individual and community resources affect coping and influence both mental and physical health.

Conclusions

Decision makers should consider ways to incorporate the positive changes which occurred as part of the exit strategy. Societies should invest in building resources to improve both individual and community resilience to help people be better prepared and more able to cope and adapt in times of crisis. Special emphasis should be given to weaker populations most affected by external changes, including older people, low socioeconomic groups, those with mental health issues and minority groups, in order to reduce disparities.
Haemoglobin and transfusions in elderly patients with hip fractures: the effect of a dedicated orthogeriatrician
Authors: Quaranta Marco , Miranda Luca , Oliva Francesco , Migliorini Filippo , Pezzuti Gabriela , Maffulli Nicola
Published: June 2021

Background

Hip fractures are common in elderly patients, in whom it is important to monitor blood loss; however, unnecessary transfusions should be avoided. The primary objective of this study was to assess whether the employment of a dedicated orthogeriatrician in an Orthopaedic Department allows to optimise the clinical conditions of patients, influencing blood loss and consequently the number of transfusions. The secondary objective was to determine whether the influence of the orthogeriatrician differs according to the type of surgical treatment.

Methods

A total of 620 elderly patients treated for hip fracture were included in the study. These patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or not of the orthogeriatrician. For each patient, age, sex, comorbidities, type of fracture, surgical treatment, length of hospital stay, time from hospitalisation and surgery, time from surgery to discharge, haemoglobin (Hb) values (admission, 24h post-surgery, lowest Hb reached, discharge) and the number of transfusions were recorded.

Results

Regardless of the surgical procedure performed, in patients managed by the orthogeriatrician, the Hb at discharge was significantly higher (p= 0.003). In addition to the highest Hb at discharge, in patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty, the number of transfusions per patient is significantly reduced (p= 0.03).

Conclusion

The introduction of the orthogeriatrician in an orthopaedic ward for the management of elderly patients treated for hip fracture allows to discharge the patients with higher Hb values, reducing the risk of anemisation and the costs related to possible re-admission.
Letter to the editor: “Not all biases are bad: equitable and inequitable biases in machine learning and radiology”
Authors: Iannessi Antoine , Beaumont Hubert , Bertrand Anne Sophie
Published: June 2021

Artificial intelligence algorithms are booming in medicine, and the question of biases induced or perpetuated by these tools is a very important topic. There is a greater risk of these biases in radiology, which is now the primary diagnostic tool in modern treatment. Some authors have recently proposed an analysis framework for social inequalities and the biases at risk of being introduced into future algorithms. In our paper, we comment on the different strategies for resolving these biases. We warn that there is an even greater risk in mixing the notion of equity, the definition of which is socio-political, into the design stages of these algorithms. We believe that rather than being beneficial, this could in fact harm the main purpose of these artificial intelligence tools, which is the care of the patient.
MSC-derived small extracellular vesicles overexpressing miR-20a promoted the osteointegration of porous titanium alloy by enhancing osteogenesis via targeting BAMBI
Authors: Liu Wei , Huang Jinghuan , Chen Feng , Xie Dong , Wang Longqing , Ye Cheng , Zhu Qi , Li Xiang , Li Xiaolin , Yang Lili
Published: June 2021

Background

Patients with osteoporosis have a high risk of implant loosening due to poor osteointegration, possibly leading to implant failure, implant revision, and refracture. RNA interference therapy is an emerging epigenetic treatment, and we found that miR-20a could enhance osteogenesis. Moreover, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) were utilized as nanoscale carriers for the protection and transportation of miR-20a (sEV-20a). In this study, we intended to determine whether sEVs overexpressing miR-20a could exert a superior effect on osteoporotic bone defects and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

For evaluating the effect of sEV-20a on osteogenesis, in vitro and in vivo studies were performed. In vitro, we first showed that miR-20a was upregulated in the osteogenic process and overexpressed sEVs with miR-20a by the transfection method. Then, the proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation abilities of hBM-MSCs treated with sEV-20a were detected by CCK-8 assays, alkaline phosphatase staining and alizarin red staining, qRT-PCR, and western blot. In vivo, we established an osteoporotic bone defect model and evaluated the effect of sEV-20a on bone formation by micro-CT, sequential fluorescent labeling, and histological analysis. To further explore the mechanism, we applied a bioinformatics method to identify the potential target of miR-20a.

Results

In vitro, sEV-20a was successfully established and proved to promote the migration and osteogenesis of hBM-MSCs. In vivo, sEV-20a promoted osteointegration in an osteoporotic rat model. To further elucidate the related mechanism, we proved that miR-20a could enhance osteogenesis by targeting BAMBI.

Conclusions

Collectively, the in vitro and in vivo results confirmed that MSC-derived sEV-20a therapy effectively promoted osteoporotic porous titanium alloy osteointegration via pro-osteogenic effects by targeting BAMBI.
Nonviral genome engineering of natural killer cells
Authors: Robbins Gabrielle M. , Wang Minjing , Pomeroy Emily J. , Moriarity Branden S.
Published: June 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes of the innate immune system capable of immune surveillance. Given their ability to rapidly and effectively recognize and kill aberrant cells, especially transformed cells, NK cells represent a unique cell type to genetically engineer to improve its potential as a cell-based therapy. NK cells do not express a T cell receptor and thus do not contribute to graft-versus-host disease, nor do they induce T cell-driven cytokine storms, making them highly suited as an off-the-shelf cellular therapy. The clinical efficacy of NK cell-based therapies has been hindered by limited in vivo persistence and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment characteristic of many cancers. Enhancing NK cell resistance to tumor inhibitory signaling through genome engineering has the potential to improve NK cell persistence in the tumor microenvironment and restore cytotoxic functions. Alongside silencing NK cell inhibitory receptors, NK cell killing can be redirected by the integration of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). However, NK cells are associated with technical and biological challenges not observed in T cells, typically resulting in low genome editing efficiencies. Viral vectors have achieved the greatest gene transfer efficiencies but carry concerns of random, insertional mutagenesis given the high viral titers necessary. As such, this review focuses on nonviral methods of gene transfer within the context of improving cancer immunotherapy using engineered NK cells.
What is the optimal outcome after endoscopic sinus surgery in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis? A consultation of Canadian experts
Authors: Saydy Nadim , Moubayed Sami P. , Bussières Marie , Janjua Arif , Kilty Shaun , Lavigne François , Monteiro Eric , Nayan Smriti , Piché Marilou , Smith Kristine , Sommer Doron , Sowerby Leigh , Tewfik Marc A. , Witterick Ian J. , Wright Erin , Desrosiers Martin
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Many experts feel that in the absence of well-defined goals for success, they have an easier time identifying failure. As success ought to not be defined only by absence of failure, we aimed to define optimal outcomes for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) by obtaining expert surgeon perspectives.

Methods

A total of 12 surgeons participated in this targeted consultation. Face to face semi-structured interviews were performed with expert surgeons in the field of CRS and ESS. General impressions and personal definitions of acceptable operative success and optimal operative outcomes were compiled and summarized.

Results

According to an expert survey, patients’ main objectives are an improvement in their chief complain, a general improvement in quality of life (QoL), and a better overall symptomatic control. The most important aspects of endoscopy for defining a successful intervention were an adequate mucus circulation, a healthy mucosa, minimal edema, and patency of all explored cavities or ostia. In the assessment of surgical outcomes, it was determined that both objective and patient reported data must be carefully examined, with more attention given to subjective outcomes.

Conclusions

According to data gathered from a Canadian expert consultation, a definition of success must be based on both subjective data and nasal endoscopy. We propose to define an acceptable outcome as either a subjective improvement of at least the minimal clinically improvement difference of a validated patient reported outcome questionnaire, along with a satisfactory endoscopic result (1) or a complete subjective resolution with a sub-optimal endoscopy (2).

Graphical Abstract
Findings and measures to eradicate methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus clonal complex 7 spa-type t091 in two Norwegian pig farms: a case report
Authors: Karlsen O. M. , Sandbu K. D. , Grøntvedt C. A.
Published: June 2021

Background

The Norwegian LA-MRSA surveillance and control strategy in pig farms has been largely successful in preventing the establishment of MRSA in the pig population by identifying positive pig herds and eradicating MRSA from these. It can, however, be challenging to determine whether a particular type of MRSA is livestock-associated, particularly in cases where there is little evidence available to aid in classification.

Case presentation

In two Norwegian pig farms linked by trade of live pigs, MRSA CC7 t091 was found in samples from pigs and their environment. Longitudinal sampling, with a time interval of 25 days, in one farm demonstrated an increase in samples positive for MRSA CC7 t091, supporting a classification of the finding as livestock associated. Measures to eradicate MRSA from both farms were imposed by the National Food Safety Authority. Different measures of MRSA sanitation were applied in the two farms, and MRSA was successfully eradicated from both farms.

Conclusions

A high-cost, labor intensive and a lower-cost, less labor intensive MRSA eradication protocol, both including total depopulation and repopulation were successful in eradicating MRSA CC7 t091 from two case farms.
Central diabetes insipidus and pain medications – a risky combination
Authors: Pinto Teresa E. , Mokashi Arati , Cummings Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Central Diabetes Insipidus (CDI) results from decreased production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) leading to an inability to concentrate urine. CDI is treated with desmopressin (DDAVP). Rarely reported in the literature, opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can induce hyponatremia in individuals treated for CDI.

Case presentation

A 10-year-old boy with septo-optic dysplasia and CDI was treated with DDAVP 1.6 mg orally TID maintaining normal sodium levels. Post admission for a femur fracture, he was discharged on ibuprofen and hydromorphone. Sodium was 136 mmol/l two days before discharge.

He returned to the ED after having a seizure at home. He was euvolemic and mildly lethargic. Sodium was low at 108 mmol/l. DDAVP and hydromorphone were held and he was fluid restricted, but the sodium remained low. Sodium began to rise when Ibuprofen was stopped. Intermittent small doses of DDAVP were given to facilitate gradual correction of hyponatremia. At discharge, sodium had normalized.

Conclusion

Hyponatremia has occasionally been described as a side effect of opioids and rarely of NSAIDs in patients with CDI. Stimulation of the thirst centre may play a role with opioids while a decrease in urine output may be the mechanism with NSAIDs.
Detecting conflicts of interest in credit rating changes: a distribution dynamics approach
Authors: Lee Wai Choi , Shen Jianfu , Cheong Tsun Se , Wojewodzki Michal
Published: June 2021

In this study, we compare the adjustments of credit ratings by an investor-paid credit rating agency (CRA), represented by Egan-Jones Ratings Company, and an issuer-paid CRA, represented by Moody’s Investors Service, vis-à-vis conflict of interest and reputation. A novel distribution dynamics approach is employed to compute the probability distribution and, hence, the downgrade and upgrade probabilities of a credit rating assigned by these two CRAs of different compensation systems based on the dataset of 750 U.S. issuers between 2011 and 2018, that is, after the passage of the Dodd–Frank Act. It is found that investor-paid ratings are more likely to be downgraded than issuer-paid ratings only in the lower rating grades, which is consistent with the argument that investor-paid agencies have harsher attitudes toward potentially defaulting issuers to protect their reputation. We do not find evidence that issuer-paid CRAs provide overly favorable treatments to issuers with threshold ratings, implying that reputation concerns and the Dodd–Frank regulation mitigate the conflict of interests, while issuer-paid CRAs are more concerned about providing accurate ratings.
Early detection of myocardial changes with and without dexrazoxane using serial magnetic resonance imaging in a pre-clinical mouse model
Authors: Noel Cory V. , Rainusso Nino , Robertson Matthew , Romero Jonathan , Masand Prakash , Coarfa Cristian , Pautler Robia
Published: June 2021

Background

Cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction may occur in pediatric cancer survivors. Identification of early markers of myocardial damage secondary to anthracycline exposure is crucial to develop strategies that may ameliorate this complication.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to identify early myocardial changes induced by doxorubicin with and without cardioprotection using dexrazoxane detected by serial cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in a pre-clinical mouse model.

Methods

Serial CMR examinations were performed in 90 mice distributed in 3 groups: 45 received doxorubicin (DOX group), 30 mice received doxorubicin with dexrazoxane (DOX/DEX group) and 15 mice received saline injections (control group). We obtained the following CMR parameters in all mice: T2, extracellular volume quantification (ECV), myocardial deformation, and functional quantification.

Results

Myocardial edema assessed by T2 time was the earliest parameter demonstrating evidence of myocardial injury, most notable in the DOX group at week 4 and 8 compared with DOX/DEX group. Similarly, global longitudinal strain was abnormal in both the DOX and DOX/DEX groups. However, this change persisted only in the DOX group. The ECV was significantly elevated in the DOX group at the final CMR, while only minimally elevated in the DOX/DEX group. The right and left ejection fraction was decreased, along with the mass to volume ratio in the DOX group. The T2 time, ECV, and deformation correlated with ejection fraction and left ventricular volume.

Conclusions

T2 time and deformation by CMR identifies early myocardial injury from anthracyclines. Dexrazoxne did not prevent the initial edema, but the inflammatory changes were not sustained. CMR may be useful for early detection of cardiac dysfunction. Serial CMR demonstrates dexrazoxane minimizes cardiac dysfunction and aids recovery in a mouse model.
Intimate partner violence among Arab women before and during the COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: El-Nimr Nessrin A. , Mamdouh Heba M. , Ramadan Amal , El Saeh Haider M. , Shata Zeinab N.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Intimate partner violence (IPV) remains a serious human rights violation and an important health concern during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The study aims to estimate the proportion of IPV among adult Arab women before and during the COVID-19 lockdown and to identify its possible predictors during the lockdown.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and June 2020 using an online questionnaire. The sample included 490 adult Arab women aged 18 years and above, who live with their husbands. Data was collected using a Google forms designed questionnaire that included the socio-demographic characteristics, nature of lockdown, and exposure to different types of IPV before and during COVID-19 lockdown and the frequency of their occurrence. McNemar’s test was used to determine differences in the exposure to IPV before and during the lockdown, while logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors of exposure to IPV during the lockdown.

Results

Half of women reported that they were ever exposed to IPV with psychological violence ranking 1st. Exposure to any type of IPV and exposure to psychological, physical, and sexual violence have significantly increased during the lockdown compared to before the lockdown. The frequency of exposure to the different types of IPV ranged from 1–3 times per month to almost every day, but the most commonly reported was 1–3 times per month. Predictors of exposure to IPV during the COVID-19 lockdown included country of residence, family income, and whether the husband lost his job during lockdown.

Conclusions

IPV has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in the Arab countries, and it was associated with the socioeconomic consequences of the pandemic on families. Actions towards raising awareness about the problem among professionals and the community, early detection, and provision of appropriate services are mandatory.
Leaf senescence: progression, regulation, and application
Authors: Guo Yongfeng , Ren Guodong , Zhang Kewei , Li Zhonghai , Miao Ying , Guo Hongwei
Published: June 2021

Leaf senescence, the last stage of leaf development, is a type of postmitotic senescence and is characterized by the functional transition from nutrient assimilation to nutrient remobilization which is essential for plants’ fitness. The initiation and progression of leaf senescence are regulated by a variety of internal and external factors such as age, phytohormones, and environmental stresses. Significant breakthroughs in dissecting the molecular mechanisms underpinning leaf senescence have benefited from the identification of senescence-altered mutants through forward genetic screening and functional assessment of hundreds ofsenescence-associated genes(SAGs)viareverse genetic research in model plantArabidopsis thalianaas well as in crop plants. Leaf senescence involves highly complex genetic programs that are tightly tuned by multiple layers of regulation, including chromatin and transcription regulation, post-transcriptional, translational and post-translational regulation. Due to the significant impact of leaf senescence on photosynthesis, nutrient remobilization, stress responses, and productivity, much effort has been made in devising strategies based on known senescence regulatory mechanisms to manipulate the initiation and progression of leaf senescence, aiming for higher yield, better quality, or improved horticultural performance in crop plants. This review aims to provide an overview of leaf senescence and discuss recent advances in multi-dimensional regulation of leaf senescence from genetic and molecular network perspectives. We also put forward the key issues that need to be addressed, including the nature of leaf age, functional stay-green trait, coordination between different regulatory pathways, source-sink relationship and nutrient remobilization, as well as translational researches on leaf senescence.
Outcomes of “Real-World” Insulin Strategies in the Management of Hospital Hyperglycemia
Authors: Sadhu Archana R , Patham Bhargavi , Vadhariya Aisha , Chikermane Soumya G , Johnson Michael L
Published: June 2021

Context

Guidelines recommend scheduled long-acting basal and short-acting bolus insulin several times daily to manage inpatient hyperglycemia. In the “real world,” insulin therapy is complicated, with limited data on the comparative effectiveness of different insulin strategies.

Objective

This work aimed to evaluate the association of different insulin strategies with glucose control and hospital outcomes after adjustment for patient and physician factors that influence choice of therapy.

Methods

This retrospective, observational study took place at an academic hospital. Participants included noncritically ill hospitalized medical/surgical patients (n = 4558) receiving subcutaneous insulin for 75% or longer during admission. Insulin therapy was grouped into 3 strategies within the first 48 hours: basal bolus (BB: scheduled long and short/rapid n = 2358), sliding scale (SS: short/rapid acting n = 1855), or basal only (BO: long only: n = 345). Main outcome measures included glucose control: hypoglycemic days, hyperglycemic days, euglycemic days, mean glucose; and hospitalization: in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS), and readmissions.

Results

Initial therapy with BB was associated with more hypoglycemic (2.40; CI, 2.04 to 2.82) (P < .001) and fewer euglycemic days (0.90; CI, 0.85 to 0.97) (P = .003) than SS, whereas BO was associated with fewer hyperglycemic days (0.70; CI, 0.62 to 0.79) (P < .001), lower mean glucose (–18.03; CI, –22.46 to –12.61) (P < .001), and more euglycemic days (1.22; CI, 1.09 to 1.37) (P < .001) compared to SS. No difference in mortality, LOS, and readmissions was found. However, decreased LOS was observed in the BB subgroup with a medical diagnostic related group (0.93; CI, 0.89 to 0.97) (P < .001).

Conclusion

BO had a more favorable hyperglycemia profile than SS. BB, on the other hand, showed worse glycemic control as compared to SS. In the real-world hospital, BO may be a simpler and more effective insulin strategy.
Collaborative Opportunities of Exercise and Nutrition Professionals with Levels of Disease Prevention
Authors: Melton Bridget , Romanchik-Cerpovicz Joelle E.
Published: June 2021

Apply It!

After reading this article, health and fitness professionals will be able to:

• define the five levels of disease prevention

• explain how health and fitness professionals fit within each level of prevention

• highlight how to collaborate with a registered dietitian nutritionist to meet clients’ health and wellness goals
Comparison of Children and Adults During Exercise
Authors: Skinner James S.
Published: June 2021

Apply It!

After reading this article, the fitness professional will better understand the following:

• How children respond to different types of exercise

•The effects of growth and maturation on these responses

•What types of exercise children will do when they are active
Tips on How to Prepare and Lead a Livestreaming Exercise Program in One-sided Free Platforms
Authors: Daskalaki Katerina , Beneka Anastasia , Malliou Paraskevi-Vivian
Published: June 2021

Apply It!

By reading this article, the fitness professional who leads Internet-based livestreaming programs in open platforms will:

• Learn how to lead a safe, effective, and enjoyable livestreaming group exercise program for exercisers of all levels and of different musculoskeletal conditions.

• Understand the particularities of livestreaming training sessions that are shot in nonprofessional settings (i.e., at home) to build them in the most professional way.
COVID-19 related leukoencephalopathy with bilateral reticular formation involvement
Authors: Ahmed Islam Ahmed Hassan , Aker loai , Sharafeldin Mamdouh , Own Ahmed , Abdelhady Mohamed , Vattoth Surjith
Published: June 2021

We are presenting the imaging findings of COVID-19-related leukoencephalopathy associated with bilateral reticular formation diffusion restriction in brain magnetic resonance imaging. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of bilateral reticular formation affection in a COVID-19 patient.
How to connect academics around the globe by organizing an asynchronous virtual unconference
Authors: Holman Constance , Kent Brianne A. , Weissgerber Tracey L.
Published: June 2021

Many conferences and in-person meetings have transitioned to virtual platforms in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we share strategies and lessons learned from organizing an international virtual unconventional conference, or ‘unconference’. The event focused on how early career researchers can advocate for systemic improvements in scientific publishing and research culture. The virtual unconference had three main components: (1) a virtual networking event, (2) asynchronous virtual brainstorming, and (3) a virtual open space, where participants could join or lead in-depth discussions. The unconference format was participant-driven and encouraged dialogue and collaboration between 54 attendees from 20 countries on six continents. Virtual brainstorming allowed participants to contribute to discussions at times that were convenient for them. Activity was consistently high throughout the 48 hours of virtual brainstorming and continued into the next day. The results of these discussions are collaboratively summarized in a paper entitled Empowering Early Career Researchers to Improve Science, co-authored by the unconference participants. We hope that this method report will help others to organize asynchronous virtual unconferences, while also providing new strategies for participant-driven activities that could be integrated into conventional virtual conferences.
Educación artística en Brasil: creatividad colectiva.
Authors: Mae Barbosa Ana
Published: June 2021

Este artículo da una gran importancia a la modernización de la educación artística y de la creatividad moderna, dando explicación a los problemas causados por la dictadura en Brasil. Se definen enfoques actuales como, por ejemplo, la cultura visual, el abordaje triangular, el interculturalismo, el ecologismo y el movimiento de Vuelta a la Creatividad.
Empowering Optimization Skills Through an Orienteering Competition
Authors: Fornasiero Marianna , Malucelli Federico , Pazzi Rodolfo , Schettini Tommaso
Published: June 2021

We report on a playful introduction of optimization in a high school. The final event of this experience has been an orienteering competition, in which the decision-making component plays a central role. This type of event has been very involving, and it boosted the interest of the students toward operations research. After summarizing the activities in class that preceded the competition, we describe in detail the organization aspects and the outcome. We also provide a simple AMPL code that compares the choices made by the participants with their optimal trajectory, that is, the one maximizing the score with the same traveled distance.
Value of Stars on Broadway: A Case Study
Authors: Maclean Kyle D. S.
Published: June 2021

Highly qualified employees are a critical element of a service experience. Utilizing the theatre metaphor, we showcase a method to value these employees with a case study on Broadway. Using a novel data set that includes Broadway show revenues, private expense data, and actor usage, our case study shows that stars were associated with increased revenues in the weeks they were present. However, after taking into account their effects on surrounding weeks’ revenues, their impact was significantly less. After accounting for the costs of hiring a star, we estimate a positive but not statistically significant impact on profit. We discuss managerial implications for designers of service experiences.
Life with half a heart: the adult years
Authors: McStay Linda
Published: June 2021

In this month's patient story, Linda McStay reflects on her journey as an adult with congenital heart disease and shares the lessons she has learned, realising that even half a heart can be full and feel whole.
Signal detection algorithms for interferometric sensors with harmonic phase modulation: evaluation of additive noise effects
Authors: Liokumovich Leonid , Muravyov Konstantin , Sochava Aleksandr , Skliarov Philipp , Ushakov Nikolai
Published: June 2021

Interferometric techniques are widely used for interrogation of various optical sensors. Techniques utilizing harmonic auxiliary phase modulation are of special interest from a practical point of view, as they do not require a large bandwidth and dynamic range of a phase modulator, yet are capable of accurately demodulating target phase signals when jointed with proper demodulation algorithms. The current paper presents a universal theoretical apparatus aimed at estimating the influence of the noise of an interference signal on noise of the demodulated phase. Two demodulation algorithms developed in our previously published paper [Appl. Opt. 56, 7960 (2017)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.56.007960] are analyzed in terms of their susceptibility to additive noise. By comparing the obtained results with the Cramer–Rao bound, optimal conditions for these algorithms are found.
Metagenomic analysis of fecal and tissue samples from 18 endemic bat species in Switzerland revealed a diverse virus composition including potentially zoonotic viruses
Authors: Hardmeier Isabelle , Aeberhard Nadja , Qi Weihong , Schoenbaechler Katja , Kraettli Hubert , Hatt Jean-Michel , Fraefel Cornel , Kubacki Jakub
Published: June 2021

Many recent disease outbreaks in humans had a zoonotic virus etiology. Bats in particular have been recognized as reservoirs to a large variety of viruses with the potential to cross-species transmission. In order to assess the risk of bats in Switzerland for such transmissions, we determined the virome of tissue and fecal samples of 14 native and 4 migrating bat species. In total, sequences belonging to 39 different virus families, 16 of which are known to infect vertebrates, were detected. Contigs of coronaviruses, adenoviruses, hepeviruses, rotaviruses A and H, and parvoviruses with potential zoonotic risk were characterized in more detail. Most interestingly, in a ground stool sample of a Vespertilio murinus colony an almost complete genome of a Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was detected by Next generation sequencing and confirmed by PCR. In conclusion, bats in Switzerland naturally harbour many different viruses. Metagenomic analyses of non-invasive samples like ground stool may support effective surveillance and early detection of viral zoonoses.
Blood pressure variability and night-time dipping assessed by 24-hour ambulatory monitoring: Cross-sectional association with cardiac structure in adolescents
Authors: Goudswaard Lucy J. , Harrison Sean , Van De Klee Daniel , Chaturvedi Nishi , Lawlor Debbie A. , Davey Smith George , Hughes Alun D. , Howe Laura D.
Published: June 2021

Greater blood pressure (BP) is associated with greater left ventricular mass indexed to height2.7 (LVMi2.7) in adolescents. This study examined whether greater BP variability and reduced night-time dipping are associated with cardiac remodeling in a general population of adolescents. A cross-sectional analysis was undertaken in 587 UK adolescents (mean age 17.7 years; 43.1% male). BP was measured in a research clinic and using 24-hour ambulatory monitoring. We examined associations (for both systolic and diastolic BP) of: 1) clinic and 24-hour mean BP; 2) measures of 24-hour BP variability: standard deviation weighted for day/night (SDdn), variability independent of the mean (VIM) and average real variability (ARV); and 3) night-time dipping with cardiac structures. Cardiac structures were assessed by echocardiography: 1) LVMi2.7; 2) relative wall thickness (RWT); 3) left atrial diameter indexed to height (LADi) and 4) left ventricular internal diameter in diastole (LVIDD). Higher systolic BP was associated with greater LVMi2.7. Systolic and diastolic BP were associated with greater RWT. Associations were inconsistent for LADi and LVIDD. There was evidence for associations between both greater SDdn and ARV and higher RWT (per 1 SD higher diastolic ARV, mean difference in RWT was 0.13 SDs, 95% CI 0.045 to 0.21); these associations with RWT remained after adjustment for mean BP. There was no consistent evidence of associations between night-time dipping and cardiac structure. Measurement of BP variability, even in adolescents with blood pressure in the physiologic range, might benefit risk of cardiovascular remodeling assessment.
Comparison of regression for blood ALP levels using methods of the Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine in bovine, canine, feline, and human testing
Authors: Hata Akihisa , Fujitani Noboru , Takeshita Masahiro , Tanaka Chie , Matsuda Noriko , Takaishi Michiko , Shimokawa Miyama Takako , Hoshi Fumio
Published: June 2021

Livestock and companion animal health have a direct impact on human health. Research on clinical laboratory technology for veterinary medicine is as important as that on human laboratory technology. Reagents and analysis equipment for human medical laboratory tests are often used in veterinary medicine. Medical laboratories in Japan utilize the Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry (JSCC) method for blood alkaline phosphatase (ALP) analysis. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) method is used worldwide for ALP catalytic concentration measurement. When the IFCC method is used, human blood ALP activity is approximately one-third of the JSCC method’s activity. The JSCC method for ALP measurement was switched to the IFCC method in medical laboratories in Japan in April 2020 for global standardization purpose. It is uncertain whether conventional JSCC method reagents will continue to be supplied. In veterinary medicine, the relationship between the JSCC and IFCC methods in terms of ALP measurement is almost unclear. This study investigated the regression between JSCC and IFCC methods measuring ALP in bovine, canine, feline, and human. The regression formulas for bovine, canine, feline, and human ALP values using the conventional JSCC (x) and IFCC (y) methods arey= 0.379x+ 0.124,y= 0.289x+ 8.291,y= 0.358x+ 0.432, andy= 0.337x+ 2.959, respectively. These results suggested that the IFCC method measurement could be estimated by approximately one-third of the JSCC method measurement in animal species such as bovine, canine, and feline. By applying the conversion factors proposed in this study, a very good correlation could be obtained between the two methods for each animal.