bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of transportation infrastructures on the alteration of hillslope and fluvial geomorphology
Authors: Roy Suvendu
Published: October 2022

Transport network infrastructure interacts with the earth’s surface because they often share common spaces (e.g. river valleys), such that transport is an anthropogenic pressure that can affect geomorphological processes and outcomes. Since having its profound effect worldwide, the systematic study on the effect of transportation infrastructures (TIs) on the alteration of geomorphological forms and processes has been less focused than on any other anthropogeomorphic driver. The present review provides a multidimensional overview based on the available literature and data on the effect of TIs in changing hillslope and fluvial geomorphology to sustain a peaceful harmony between the transport network and its surrounding landscapes. The study underlines the effect of major TIs like trails, roads, railways, tunnels, causeways, waterways and airports on the alteration of different geomorphological processes on hillslope and fluvial landscapes like the movement of earth material, geomorphic connectivity, slope instability, sediment production, gully initiation and surface runoff. For instance, the global level proximity analysis shows ~40% of landslides happen within the 500 m of any major roads only, while at the regional scale it becomes ~65% irrespective of the degree of seismicity. Due to the fast development of TIs, the mountain regions are more prone to slope instability because of the alteration of surface hydrology by increasing runoff, road and ditch guided concentrated flow, rills and gully formation by reducing drainage area to cross the critical threshold limit. The plain regions are primarily facing the problem of fluvial (dis)connectivity because of the close proximity between river and transport networks and undersized causeways. For sustainable TIs development, factors like the practice of bio-engineering for roadside slope management, de-culverting, 100-year flood return for causeway construction, mapping of river corridors, road water harvesting should be incorporated for less effect on hillslope and fluvial geomorphology.
Identification of potential dam sites using OLS regression and fuzzy logic approach
Authors: Fu Zhihao , Ahmad Imran , Fenta Assefa , Dar Mithas Ahmad , Teka Afera Halefom , Belew Amanuel Zewdu , Teshome Aserat , Damtie Minwagaw , Nega Habtamu , Andualem Tesfa Gebrie , Berhan Marshet , Tenagashaw Diress Yigezu , Shumey Eusman Ebrahim
Published: October 2022

In this paper potential dam sites were identified using remote sensing and GIS. Determinant factors viz., precipitation, slope, flow accumulation, soil texture, land use, and geology were analyzed in the GIS domain. Each factor was reclassified and assigned the suitable fuzzy membership values depending on their influence on the dam site potential. All the fuzzified layers were overlaid using the "Fuzzy Overlay" tool in the GIS platform. Initially, a total of 26 dam sites were proposed. Only seven sites were selected depending on their proximity to nearby dams, settlements, and flow accumulation. The selected dam sites with their flow accumulation, elevation, precipitation, slope, stream order, maximum storage capacity, and the time of concentration were calculated. The determinant factors of suitable dam sites were subjected to the ordinary least squared (OLS) regression to understand the relationship of factors and the potential dam sites. The OLS regression model statistics showed that all factors are positively correlated with potential dam sites except slope (as low slopes are more suitable for dam construction). The OLS regression diagnostics showed that the multiple R squares values and the adjusted R-square values were found to be 0.835894 and 0.872153, respectively. In this study, Koenker’s (BP) statistic was found statistically insignificant (p > 0.01), proving that the relationship model is consistent. Jarque–Bera statistic was conducted and also found to be statistically insignificant (p > 0.01) indicating the Gaussian distribution of residuals. This proves that the fuzzy logic approach coupled with OLS regression is a powerful tool in deciphering the potential dam sites and can be applied at a regional and continental scale.
Zinc oxide nanoparticle regulates the ferroptosis, proliferation, invasion and steaminess of cervical cancer by miR-506-3p/CD164 signaling
Authors: Lei Jie-Yun , Li Shuang-Xue , Li Feng , Li Hui , Lei Yuan-Sheng
Published: October 2022

Background

Cancer stem cell (CSC) and ferroptosis play critical roles in cancer development, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Cervical cancer induces a great mortality and an increased incidence globally. Zinc oxide nanoparticle is the nanomaterial that has been applied in industrial products and targets multiple cancer cell types and cancer stem cells. Here, we aimed to explore the effect of ZON on CSC and ferroptosis of cervical cancer.

Methods

In the present study, we identified that the treatment of ZON in vitro inhibited the proliferation of cervical cancer cells.

Results

The ZON stimulated the apoptosis of cervical cancer cells. The tumor growth of cervical cancer cells was attenuated by ZON in the xenograft mouse model in vivo. Meanwhile, ZON represses cell invasion and migration of cervical cancer. Crucially, the sphere formation numbers were repressed by ZON. Meanwhile, the SP ratio of cervical cancer cells was inhibited by ZON. The expression of CSC markers, including Sox-2, Oct3/4, and Nanog, was suppressed by circFoxo3 inhibition. Moreover, the ferroptosis was enhanced by ZON in cervical cancer cells. About the mechanism, we observed that ZON enhanced miR-506-3p expression and CD164 was a target of miR-506-3p, in which ZON inhibited CD164 expression by promoting miR-506-3p in cervical cancer cells. We validated that CD164 reversed miR-506-3p-mediated stemness and ferroptosis in cervical cancer cells. ZON repressed stemness and reduced ferroptosis of cervical cancer cells by targeting CD164. ZON inhibits cell growth of cervical cancer in vivo by targeting CD164.

Conclusions

In brief, we concluded that ZON regulated the ferroptosis, proliferation, invasion, and steaminess of cervical cancer by miR-506-3p/CD164 signaling. Our finding provides new insights into the mechanism by which ZON regulates ferroptosis and steaminess of cervical cancer by a miR-506-3p/CD164 axis.
Transcriptome and population structure of glassy-winged sharpshooters (Homalodisca vitripennis) with varying insecticide resistance in southern California
Authors: Ettinger Cassandra L. , Byrne Frank J. , de Souza Pacheco Inaiara , Brown Dylan J. , Walling Linda L. , Atkinson Peter W. , Redak Richard A. , Stajich Jason E.
Published: October 2022

Background

Homalodisca vitripennis Germar, the glassy-winged sharpshooter, is an invasive insect in California and a critical threat to agriculture through its transmission of the plant pathogen, Xylella fastidiosa. Quarantine, broad-spectrum insecticides, and biological control have been used for population management of H. vitripennis since its invasion and subsequent proliferation throughout California. Recently wide-spread neonicotinoid resistance has been detected in populations of H. vitripennis in the southern portions of California’s Central Valley. In order to better understand potential mechanisms of H. vitripennis neonicotinoid resistance, we performed RNA sequencing on wild-caught insecticide-resistant and relatively susceptible sharpshooters to profile their transcriptome and population structure.

Results

We identified 81 differentially expressed genes with higher expression in resistant individuals. The significant largest differentially expressed candidate gene linked to resistance status was a cytochrome P450 gene with similarity to CYP6A9. Furthermore, we observed an over-enrichment of GO terms representing functions supportive of roles in resistance mechanisms (cytochrome P450s, M13 peptidases, and cuticle structural proteins). Finally, we saw no evidence of broad-scale population structure, perhaps due to H. vitripennis' relatively recent introduction to California or due to the relatively small geographic scale investigated here.

Conclusions

In this work, we characterized the transcriptome of insecticide-resistant and susceptible H. vitripennis and identified candidate genes that may be involved in resistance mechanisms for this species. Future work should seek to build on the transcriptome profiling performed here to confirm the role of the identified genes, particularly the cytochrome P450, in resistance in H. vitripennis. We hope this work helps aid future population management strategies for this and other species with growing insecticide resistance.
Integrated analysis of miRNAs and mRNA profiling reveals the potential roles of miRNAs in sheep hair follicle development
Authors: He Junmin , Huang Xixia , Zhao Bingru , Liu Guifen , Tian Yuezhen , Zhang Guoping , Wei Chen , Mao Jingyi , Tian Kechuan
Published: October 2022

Background

Merino sheep exhibit high wool production and excellent wool quality. The fleece of Merino sheep is predominantly composed of wool fibers grown from hair follicles (HFs). The HF is a complex biological system involved in a dynamic process governed by gene regulation, and gene expression is regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNA inhibits posttranscriptional gene expression by specifically binding to target messenger RNA (mRNA) and plays an important role in regulating gene expression, the cell cycle and biological development sequences. The purpose of this study was to examine mRNA and miRNA binding to identify key miRNAs and target genes related to HF development. This will provide new and important insights into fundamental mechanisms that regulate cellular activity and cell fate decisions within and outside of the skin.

Results

We analyzed miRNA data in skin tissues collected from 18 Merino sheep on four embryonic days (E65, E85, E105 and E135) and two postnatal days (D7 and D30) and identified 87 differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs). These six stages were further divided into two longer developmental stages based on heatmap cluster analysis, and the results showed that DE-mRNAs in Stage A were closely related to HF morphogenesis. A coanalysis of Stage A DE-mRNAs and DE-miRNAs revealed that 9 DE-miRNAs and 17 DE-mRNAs presented targeting relationships in Stage A. We found that miR-23b and miR-133 could target and regulate ACVR1B and WNT10A. In dermal fibroblasts, the overexpression of miR-133 significantly reduced the mRNA and protein expression levels of ACVR1B. The overexpression of miR-23b significantly reduced the mRNA and protein expression levels of WNT10A.

Conclusion

This study provides a new reference for understanding the molecular basis of HF development and lays a foundation for further improving sheep HF breeding. miRNAs and target genes related to hair follicular development were found, which provided a theoretical basis for molecular breeding for the culture of fine-wool sheep.
Complete chloroplast genomes of Sorbus sensu stricto (Rosaceae): comparative analyses and phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Tang Chenqian , Chen Xin , Deng Yunfei , Geng Liyang , Ma Jianhui , Wei Xueyan
Published: October 2022

Background

Sorbus sensu stricto (Sorbus s.s.) is a genus with important economical values because of its beautiful leaves, and flowers and especially the colorful fruits. It belongs to the tribe Maleae of the family Rosaceae, and comprises about 90 species mainly distributed in China. There is on-going dispute about its infrageneric classification and species delimitation as the species are morphologically similar. With the aim of shedding light on the circumscription of taxa within the genus, phylogenetic analyses were performed using 29 Sorbus s.s. chloroplast (cp) genomes (16 newly sequenced) representing two subgenera and eight sections.

Results

The 16 cp genomes newly sequenced range between 159,646 bp and 160,178 bp in length. All the samples examined and 22 taxa re-annotated in Sorbus sensu lato (Sorbus s.l.) contain 113 unique genes with 19 of these duplicated in the inverted repeat (IR). Six hypervariable regions including trnR-atpA, petN-psbM, rpl32-trnL, trnH-psbA, trnT-trnL and ndhC-trnV were screened and 44–53 SSRs and 14–31 dispersed repeats were identified as potential molecular markers. Phylogenetic analyses under ML/BI indicated that Sorbus s.l. is polyphyletic, but Sorbus s.s. and the other five segregate genera, Aria, Chamaemespilus, Cormus, Micromeles and Torminalis are monophyletic. Two major clades and four sub-clades resolved with full-support within Sorbus s.s. are not consistent with the existing infrageneric classification. Two subgenera, subg. Sorbus and subg. Albocarmesinae are supported as monophyletic when S. tianschanica is transferred to subg. Albocarmesinae from subg. Sorbus and S. hupehensis var. paucijuga transferred to subg. Sorbus from subg. Albocarmesinae, respectively. The current classification at sectional level is not supported by analysis of cp genome phylogeny.

Conclusion

Phylogenomic analyses of the cp genomes are useful for inferring phylogenetic relationships in Sorbus s.s. Though genome structure is highly conserved in the genus, hypervariable regions and repeat sequences used are the most promising molecule makers for population genetics, species delimitation and phylogenetic studies.
Predictors of shorter- and longer-term mortality after COVID-19 presentation among dialysis patients: parallel use of machine learning models in Latin and North American countries
Authors: Guinsburg Adrián M. , Jiao Yue , Bessone María Inés Díaz , Monaghan Caitlin K. , Magalhães Beatriz , Kraus Michael A. , Kotanko Peter , Hymes Jeffrey L. , Kossmann Robert J. , Berbessi Juan Carlos , Maddux Franklin W. , Usvyat Len A. , Larkin John W.
Published: October 2022

Background

We developed machine learning models to understand the predictors of shorter-, intermediate-, and longer-term mortality among hemodialysis (HD) patients affected by COVID-19 in four countries in the Americas.

Methods

We used data from adult HD patients treated at regional institutions of a global provider in Latin America (LatAm) and North America who contracted COVID-19 in 2020 before SARS-CoV-2 vaccines were available. Using 93 commonly captured variables, we developed machine learning models that predicted the likelihood of death overall, as well as during 0–14, 15–30, > 30 days after COVID-19 presentation and identified the importance of predictors. XGBoost models were built in parallel using the same programming with a 60%:20%:20% random split for training, validation, & testing data for the datasets from LatAm (Argentina, Columbia, Ecuador) and North America (United States) countries.

Results

Among HD patients with COVID-19, 28.8% (1,001/3,473) died in LatAm and 20.5% (4,426/21,624) died in North America. Mortality occurred earlier in LatAm versus North America; 15.0% and 7.3% of patients died within 0–14 days, 7.9% and 4.6% of patients died within 15–30 days, and 5.9% and 8.6% of patients died > 30 days after COVID-19 presentation, respectively. Area under curve ranged from 0.73 to 0.83 across prediction models in both regions. Top predictors of death after COVID-19 consistently included older age, longer vintage, markers of poor nutrition and more inflammation in both regions at all timepoints. Unique patient attributes (higher BMI, male sex) were top predictors of mortality during 0–14 and 15–30 days after COVID-19, yet not mortality > 30 days after presentation.

Conclusions

Findings showed distinct profiles of mortality in COVID-19 in LatAm and North America throughout 2020. Mortality rate was higher within 0–14 and 15–30 days after COVID-19 in LatAm, while mortality rate was higher in North America > 30 days after presentation. Nonetheless, a remarkable proportion of HD patients died > 30 days after COVID-19 presentation in both regions. We were able to develop a series of suitable prognostic prediction models and establish the top predictors of death in COVID-19 during shorter-, intermediate-, and longer-term follow up periods.
Health status and associated factors of middle-aged and older adult cancer survivors in India: results from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India
Authors: Guntupalli Aravinda Meera , Selvamani Y. , Maclennan Sara J. , Dilip T. R.
Published: October 2022

Background

The number of persons who have survived cancer has been increasing in India as elsewhere due to advances in detection and treatment of this disease. However, evidence on the standardised number of cancer survivors, their characteristics and their complex health challenges on a national level does not exist due to data limitations. This study, therefore, examines the profile of cancer survivors and their health status using the recently released Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) survey data.

Methods

LASI wave 1 is a cross-sectional nationally representative survey of 65,562 middle and older adults aged 45 and above. We first calculated the socioeconomic, demographic and geographical characteristics of cancer survivors (per 100,000 population). We later estimated the adjusted odds of poor health, sleep problems, depressive symptoms, activities of living limitations (ADL and IADL), and hospitalisation of cancer survivors using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

According to LASI estimates, there were 2.1 million cancer survivors in India (95% CI 1.8 million to 2.6 million) in 2017–18. Overall, 440 cancer survivors have been identified in this study, with considerable state variations. The number of cancer survivors per 1,00,000 population was relatively more in non-indigenous groups, people with a history of cancer in their families, those who worked earlier but currently not working and those in the richest quintile categories. As compared to those who never had cancer, the cancer survivors are at higher risk of hospitalisation (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.61 CI 1.86, 3.67), poor self-rated health (aOR = 3.77, CI 2.55, 5.54), depressive symptoms (aOR = 1.53, CI 1.41, 2.05) and sleep problems (aOR = 2.29, CI 1.50, 3.47). They also reported higher ADL (aOR = 1.61, CI 1.11, 2.34) and IADL (aOR = 1.49, CI 1.07, 2.07) limitations. Cancer survivors who had their cancer diagnosis in the past 2 years or a cancer-related treatment in the past 2 years have significantly higher odds of poor health status than middle-aged and older adults without a cancer history.

Conclusion

Middle-aged and older cancer survivors, particularly those who underwent cancer diagnosis or treatment in the past 2 years, are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing poor self-reported health and other health challenges, suggesting the need for an integrated healthcare approach.
Design and validation of theory-based perceptions concerning the physical literacy questionnaire for pregnant women (P2LQ-PW)
Authors: Kianfard Leila , Niknami Shamsaddin , Shokravi Farkhondeh Amin , Rakhshanderou Sakineh
Published: October 2022

Background

There is evidence that physical literacy plays an essential role in understanding the importance of maintaining appropriate physical activity and thereby preventing illnesses during pregnancy. The present study aimed to design and validate a physical literacy questionnaire focused on pregnant women.

Methods

In this exploratory psychometric study, theory-based perceptions concerning the physical literacy questionnaire for pregnant women were designed. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to develop the initial items. The findings from the interviews were merged with the literature review. The content, construct, and face validity was assessed by the participation of midwives, health educationists, and pregnant women. The content validity ratio, content validity index, and impact score of the items were calculated. The construct validity of the questionnaire was calculated through confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis. The reliability of the questionnaire was calculated by the standard error of measurement, intra-class correlation coefficient, composite reliability, and Cronbach’s alpha.

Results

The highest score was seen in the knowledge subscale and the value of Cronbach’s alpha for the subscales was 0.89 to 0.97, and the value of ICC was 0.76 to 0.89. The correlation according to the opinion of experts was satisfactory in all items of the questionnaire. The minimum loading factor for varimax rotation in the knowledge subscale was 0.41, the attitude was 0.56, the nurture factor was 0.38, and enabling factor was 0.27. The compatibility of the model among the constructs was confirmed by the normed chi-square (χ2/ df) < 5.0, comparative fit index ≥0.90, Tucker-Lewis index ≥0.9, and root mean square error of approximation < 0.08.

Conclusion

The physical literacy questionnaire for pregnant women is the first tool based on the PEN-3 model that other researchers can use to collect data and conduct educational interventions to change physical literacy behavior among Persian women during pregnancy.
Comparison of femoral mechanics before and after internal fixation removal and the effect of sclerosis on femoral stress: a finite element analysis
Authors: Liu Yang , Song Wenjie , Liang Haoran , Li Chaoxin , Niu Wenjie , Shao Huifeng , Wang Yuze , Yang Ziquan , Li Pengcui , Wu Xiaogang , He Yong , Wei Xiaochun , Duan Wangping
Published: October 2022

Background

Femoral neck fractures are a common traumatic injury. The removal of the internal fixation remains controversial, especially in terms of mechanical stability. Moreover, collapsed necrosis of the femoral head continues to occur after fracture healing. We believe that sclerotic cancellous bone (SCB) formation around the screw is associated with femoral head necrosis. We aimed to compare mechanical features before and after implant removal and determine the effect of SCB formation on stress distribution.

Methods

Cylindrical cancellous bone sections were collected from a relatively normal region and an SCB region of a necrotic femoral head, and their elastic moduli were measured. Four femoral finite element models were developed: a) femoral neck fracture healing with implants, b) fracture healing without implants, c) sclerosis around the screw with implants, and d) sclerosis around the screw without implants.

Results

The maximum von Mises peak stresses of models a and b were 66.643 MPa and 63.76 MPa, respectively, and were concentrated in the upper lateral femur. The main stress was scattered at the lowest screw tail, femoral calcar region, and lateral femur shaft. Moreover, coronal plane strain throughout the screw paths near the femoral head in models a and b was mostly in the range of 1000–3000 με. The maximum stress concentrations in models c and d were located at the lower femoral head and reached 91.199 MPa and 78.019 MPa, respectively.

Conclusions

The stresses in the sclerotic model around the cannulated screws are more concentrated on the femoral head than in the healing model without sclerotic bone. The overall stresses in the healing femoral neck fracture model were essentially unchanged before and after removal of the internal fixation.
Growth differentiation factor 15 is not associated with glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with metformin: a post-hoc analysis of AIM study
Authors: Gao Fei , Li Cheng , Wang Yufei , Lu Jingyi , Lu Wei , Zhou Jian , Yin Jun , Ma Xiaojing
Published: October 2022

Background

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) was newly discovered to be a promising target of metformin. The study was aimed to investigate the relationship between GDF15 and glycemic control after metformin treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

The study was a post-hoc analysis of AIM (the effect of Acarbose on glycemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus using premixed Insulin compared to Metformin) study. The participants were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of metformin (MET) or acarbose (ACA) treatment combined with insulin. Serum GDF15 levels of 51 subjects from MET group and 53 subjects from ACA group were measured at baseline and after a 12-week treatment. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h postprandial plasma glucose (2-h PG) and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were measured at baseline and endpoint.

Results

After a 12-week treatment, serum GDF15 levels significantly increased in MET group [baseline vs. endpoint, 936.70 (741.00, 1205.40) pg/mL vs. 1265.20 (1027.90, 1634.00) pg/mL, P < 0.001], but not in ACA group [baseline vs. endpoint, 920.60 (701.45, 1332.55) pg/mL vs. 893.80 (663.25, 1284.05) pg/mL, P = 0.944]. However, there were no significant differences of glycemic control parameters (ΔFPG, Δ2-h PG and ΔHbA1c) between subgroups of MET group divided by median of ΔGDF15 (all P > 0.05). Spearman correlation coefficient and analysis of covariance after adjustment for baseline HbA1c levels showed that ΔGDF15 was not correlated with ΔFPG, Δ2-h PG and ΔHbA1c (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Serum GDF15 levels were significantly elevated after metformin treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, the increase was not an indicator of the glucose-lowering effect of metformin.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02438397. Registered 8 May 2015.
A clinical review of HIV integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) for the prevention and treatment of HIV-1 infection
Authors: Zhao Alexa Vyain , Crutchley Rustin D. , Guduru Rakesh Chowdary , Ton Kathy , Lam Tammie , Min Amy Cheng
Published: October 2022

Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) have improved the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). There are currently four approved for use in treatment-naïve individuals living with HIV; these include first generation raltegravir, elvitegravir, and second generation dolutegravir and bictegravir. The most recent INSTI, cabotegravir, is approved for (1) treatment of HIV infection in adults to replace current antiretroviral therapy in individuals who maintain virologic suppression on a stable antiretroviral regimen without history of treatment failure and no known resistance to its components and (2) pre-exposure prophylaxis in individuals at risk of acquiring HIV-1 infection. Cabotegravir can be administered intramuscularly as a monthly or bi-monthly injection depending on the indication. This long-acting combination has been associated with treatment satisfaction in clinical studies and may be helpful for individuals who have difficulty taking daily oral medications. Worldwide, second generation INSTIs are preferred for treatment-naïve individuals. Advantages of these INSTIs include their high genetic barrier to resistance, limited drug-drug interactions, excellent rates of virologic suppression, and favorable tolerability. Few INSTI resistance-associated mutations have been reported in clinical trials involving dolutegravir, bictegravir and cabotegravir. Other advantages of specific INSTIs include their use in various populations such as infants and children, acute HIV infection, and individuals of childbearing potential. The most common adverse events observed in clinical studies involving INSTIs included diarrhea, nausea, insomnia, fatigue, and headache, with very low rates of treatment discontinuation versus comparator groups. The long-term clinical implications of weight gain associated with second generation INSTIs dolutegravir and bictegravir warrants further study. This review summarizes key clinical considerations of INSTIs in terms of clinical pharmacology, drug-drug interactions, resistance, and provides perspective on clinical decision-making. Additionally, we summarize major clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of INSTIs in treatment-naïve patients living with HIV as well as individuals at risk of acquiring HIV infection.
Analysis and comparison of anti-RBD neutralizing antibodies from AZD-1222, Sputnik V, Sinopharm and Covaxin vaccines and its relationship with gender among health care workers
Authors: Zare Hamed , Rezapour Hadis , Fereidouni Alireza , Nikpour Saboura , Mahmoudzadeh Sara , Royce Simon G , Fereidouni Mohammad
Published: October 2022

Background

Vaccine efficiency has a significant role in the public perception of vaccination. The current study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines (AZD-1222, Sputnik-V, Sinopharm, and Covaxin) and the effect of gender on vaccine efficacy. We evaluated the efficacy of these vaccines among 214 health care employees in Iran. Blood samples were taken from all participants on day 0 and 14 days after the second dose. Humoral responses were evaluated by the PT-SARS-CoV-2-Neutralizing-Ab-96.

Results

The frequency of immunized individuals in the Sputnik V and AZD-1222 groups was 91% and 86%, respectively. This rate was 61% and 67% for Sinopharm and Covaxin vaccines. A comparison of the results obtained from the effectiveness of the vaccines between female and male groups did not demonstrate a significant difference.

Conclusion

According to the results, Sputnik V and AZD-1222 vaccines were more effective than Sinopharm and Covaxin vaccines. Moreover, the effectiveness of these vaccines is not related to gender.
The role of whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) in primary central nervous system lymphoma: is it an alternative to ASCT for consolidation following HD-methotrexate based induction in low-income settings?
Authors: de Pádua Covas Lage Luís Alberto , Araújo Soares Vinícius , Meneguin Thales Dalessandro , Culler Hebert Fabrício , Reichert Cadiele Oliana , Jacomassi Mayara D’Auria , Reis Diego Gomes Cândido , Zerbini Maria Cláudia Nogueira , de Oliveira Costa Renata , Rocha Vanderson , Pereira Juliana
Published: October 2022

Background

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare and aggressive malignancy. Although potentially curable, its prognosis remains dismal. Its treatment is based on high-doses of methotrexate (HD-MTX) and rituximab, followed by consolidation therapy with whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) or autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Currently, there is no consensus about the best consolidation strategy, but better outcomes with ASCT are obtained with conditioning regimens based on thiotepa, a high-cost drug with restricted use in resource-constrained settings. Latin American data on clinical outcomes, prognostic factors, and therapeutic management in PCNSL are virtually unknown.

Methods

This is a retrospective, observational, and single-center study involving 47-Brazilian patients with PCNSL. We aim to assess outcomes, determine predictors of survival, and compare responses, as well as toxicities in patients consolidated with chemotherapy alone versus chemotherapy plus WBRT.

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 59 years (24–88 years), and 53.1% were male. LDH ≥ UVN occurred in 44.7%, ECOG ≥ 2 in 67.6%, and 34.1% had multifocal disease. Hemiparesis was the main clinical presentation, observed in 55.3%, 51.0% had intermediate-/high-risk IELSG prognostic score, and 57.6% had an ABC-like phenotype by IHC. With a median follow-up of 24.4 months, estimated 5-year OS and PFS were 45.5% and 36.4%, respectively. Among 40 patients treated with HD-MTX-based induction, estimated 2-year OS was 85.8% for those consolidated with WBRT plus HIDAC versus only 41.5% for those consolidated with HIDAC alone (p < 0.001). Hematologic and non-hematologic toxicities were not significant, and severe cognitive impairment occurred in only 6.3% (3/47) of cases, all of them treated with WBRT. Age < 60 years, Hb ≥ 120 g/L and WBRT consolidation were associated with increased OS, however, LDH ≥ UVN, hypoalbuminemia, ECOG ≥ 2, Karnofsky PS < 70 and intermediate-/high-risk Barcelona score were associated with decreased OS.

Conclusion

Combined consolidation therapy (CCT) based on WBRT plus HIDAC was associated with increased OS in PCNSL compared to isolated consolidation therapy (ICT) based on HIDAC alone. Here, severe late neurotoxicity was uncommon with this approach. These data suggest that WBRT may be an effective and safe alternative to ASCT for consolidation therapy in PCNSL, particularly in resource-constrained settings, where access to thiotepa for pre-ASCT conditioning is not universal.
The presence of ovarian endometrioma adversely affect ovarian reserve and response to stimulation but not oocyte quality or IVF/ICSI outcomes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zeng Cheng , Lu Ruihui , Li Xin , Kuai Yanrong , Wang Sheng , Xue Qing
Published: October 2022

Background

The possible impact of ovarian endometriomas (OMAs) on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes remains controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the impact of OMAs on IVF cycle parameters, including ovarian reserve and response to stimulation, embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 2067 patients undergoing their first IVF/ICSI cycles between January 2018 and December 2020. The study group included 154 infertile women who had OMAs. The control group consisted of 1913 women without endometriosis, and finally 305 women were matched according to maternal age, body mass index (BMI), and infertility duration by propensity score matching (PSM). Cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) was set as the primary outcome measure. Logistic regression analysis was conducted on the basis of clinical covariates assessed for their association with CLBRs. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate the effect of ovarian surgery, cyst size and laterality on CLBRs.

Results

Women with OMAs had significantly lower ovarian reserve markers (AMH and AFC), number of follicles, oocytes, embryos, and top-quality embryos than women in the control group (p < 0.05). However, the CLBRs were comparable between the two groups (55.64% versus 54.34%, p = 0.806), regardless of previous history of ovarian surgery. Multivariate analysis revealed association between age (OR = 0.861; 95% CI [0.806–0.921]; p = 0.000), top-quality embryos (OR = 1.829; 95% CI [1.526–2.193]; p = 0.000) and the CLBRs. A negative correlation between OMA size and AFC levels in patients with unoperated OMAs was detected (r = -0.264, p = 0.007). Meanwhile, significant decrease in ovarian reserve with lower AFC, fewer oocytes, embryos and top-quality embryos were observed in patients with OMAs size ≥ 6 cm (p < 0.05). Moreover, ovaries with OMAs had a significantly lower AFC (P = 0.006) but similar number of oocytes when compared with contralateral ovaries without OMAs.

Conclusion

Infertile women with OMAs were implicated in considerable decreases in ovarian reserve and response to stimulation, but no apparent adverse effects on oocyte quality or clinical outcomes. OMAs surgery and OMAs size may adversely affect ovarian reserve, but not CLBR.
Statistical analysis plan for the stepped wedge clinical trial Healing Right Way—enhancing rehabilitation services for Aboriginal Australians after brain injury
Authors: Armstrong Elizabeth , Rai Tapan , Hersh Deborah , Thompson Sandra , Coffin Juli , Ciccone Natalie , Flicker Leon , Cadilhac Dominique , Godecke Erin , Woods Deborah , Hayward Colleen , Hankey Graeme J. , McAllister Meaghan , Katzenellenbogen Judith
Published: October 2022

Background

Aboriginal Australians are known to suffer high levels of acquired brain injury (stroke and traumatic brain injury) yet experience significant barriers in accessing rehabilitation services. The aim of the Healing Right Way trial is to evaluate a culturally secure intervention for Aboriginal people with newly acquired brain injury to improve their rehabilitation experience and quality of life. Following publication of the trial protocol, this paper outlines the statistical analysis plan prior to locking the database. 

Methods

The trial involves a stepped wedge design with four steps over 3 years. Participants were 108 adult Aboriginal Australians admitted to one of eight hospitals (four rural, four urban) in Western Australia within 6 weeks of onset of a new stroke or traumatic brain injury who consented to follow-up for 26 weeks. All hospital sites started in a control phase, with the intervention assigned to pairs of sites (one metropolitan, one rural) every 26 weeks until all sites received the intervention. The two-component intervention involves training in culturally safe care for hospital sites and enhanced support provided to participants by Aboriginal Brain Injury Coordinators during their hospital stay and after discharge. The primary outcome is quality of life as measured by the Euro QOL–5D-3L VAS. A mixed effects linear regression model will be used to assess the between-group difference at 26 weeks post-injury. The model will control for injury type and severity, age at recruitment and time since commencement of the trial, as fixed effects. Recruitment site and participant will be included as random effects. Secondary outcomes include measurements of function, independence, anxiety and depression, carer strain, allied health occasions of service received and hospital compliance with minimum processes of care based on clinical guidelines and best practice models of care.

Discussion

The trial will provide the first data surrounding the effectiveness of an intervention package for Aboriginal people with brain injury and inform future planning of rehabilitation services for this population. The statistical analysis plan outlines the analyses to be undertaken.

Trial registration

Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618000139279. Registered 30 January, 2018.
Enriched enrollment randomized double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over trial with phenytoin cream in painful chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy (EPHENE): a study protocol
Authors: Kopsky David J. , van Eijk Ruben P. A. , Warendorf Janna K. , Keppel Hesselink Jan M. , Notermans Nicolette C. , Vrancken Alexander F. J. E.
Published: October 2022

Background

Patients with chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy (CIAP) can have neuropathic pain that significantly impacts quality of life. Oral neuropathic pain medication often has insufficient pain relief and side effects. Topical phenytoin cream could circumvent these limitations.

The primary objectives of this trial are to evaluate (1) efficacy in pain reduction and (2) safety of phenytoin cream in patients with painful CIAP. The main secondary objective is to explore the usefulness of a double-blind placebo-controlled response test (DOBRET) to identify responders to sustained pain relief with phenytoin cream.

Methods

This 6-week, enriched enrollment randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled triple cross-over trial compares phenytoin 20%, 10% and placebo cream in 48 participants with painful CIAP. Enriched enrollment is based on a positive DOBRET in 48 participants who experience within 30 minutes ≥2 points pain reduction on the 11-point numerical rating scale (NRS) in the phenytoin 10% cream applied area and ≥1 point difference in pain reduction on the NRS between phenytoin 10% and placebo cream applied area, in favour of the former. To explore whether DOBRET has predictive value for sustained pain relief, 24 DOBRET-negative participants will be included.

An open-label extension phase is offered with phenytoin 20% cream for up to one year, to study long-term safety.

The main inclusion criteria are a diagnosis of CIAP and symmetrical neuropathic pain with a mean weekly pain score of ≥4 and <10 on the NRS.

The primary outcome is the mean difference between phenytoin 20% versus placebo cream in 7-day average pain intensity, as measured by the NRS, over week 2 in DOBRET positive participants.

Key secondary outcomes include the mean difference in pain intensity between phenytoin 10% and phenytoin 20% cream, and between phenytoin 10% and placebo cream. Furthermore, differences between the 3 interventions will be evaluated on the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory, EuroQol EQ5-5D-5L, and evaluation of adverse events.

Discussion

This study will provide evidence on the efficacy and safety of phenytoin cream in patients with painful CIAP and will give insight into the usefulness of DOBRET as a way of personalized medicine to identify responders to sustained pain relief with phenytoin cream.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04647877. Registered on 1 December 2020.
Analgesic efficacy and safety of nalbuphine versus morphine for perioperative tumor ablation: a randomized, controlled, multicenter trial
Authors: Xue Youhua , Huang Zhengli , Cheng Bingwei , Sun Jie , Zhu Haidong , Tang Yuting , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: October 2022

Background

The study will compare the efficacy and safety of nalbuphine hydrochloride injection and morphine hydrochloride injection for perioperative analgesia in tumor ablation and the differences between the two groups regarding duration of surgery, average daily dose, patient satisfaction with analgesia, quality of life, and other indicators. Furthermore, it will evaluate the clinical application of nalbuphine and morphine for perioperative analgesia in ablation surgery and provides important reference and guidance for clinical practice.

Methods

This is a randomized controlled study. Patients who were diagnosed by clinicians and required tumor ablation are enrolled and randomized to the experimental groups. In the test group, nalbuphine 80 mg + 0.9% normal saline (72 ml) is set in the patient-controlled analgesia pump, which is connected 15 min before ablation under electrocardiogram monitoring and surgery is performed immediately. The doses are as follows: initial,: 0.15 ml/kg,; background:, 0.5 ml/h,; compression:, 2 ml,; and lockout time:, 15 min. If the numeric rating scale is ≥ 4 points, the drug is administered by compression. The control group receives similar treatment under similar conditions as the test group except morphine (80 mg) is administered instead of nalbuphine (80 mg). The primary endpoints are the effective rate of analgesia and the incidence of adverse reactions (nausea and vomiting, dizziness, itching, constipation, hypoxemia, and urinary retention); the secondary endpoints are pain intensity, satisfaction with analgesia, duration of surgery, postoperative hospital stay, average daily dose, uninterrupted completion rate of surgery without complaints of pain, quality of life assessment, and vital signs.

Discussion

This study, to the best of our knowledge, is the first randomized controlled trial of nalbuphine patient-controlled analgesia in ablation surgery.

Trial registration

U.S. Clinical Trials Network Registration No.: NCT05073744. Registered on 11 October, 2021.
Efficacy of Emotionally Focused Therapy among Spanish-speaking couples: study protocol of a randomized clinical trial in Argentina, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, and Spain
Authors: Rodríguez-Gonzalez Martiño , Anderson Shayne , Osorio Alfonso , Lafontaine Marie-France , Greenman Paul S. , Calatrava María , Andrade Dania , Lybbert Ragan , Martínez-Diaz Pilar , Steffen Patrick , de Irala Jokin , Sandberg Jonathan
Published: October 2022

Background

Couple relationship distress is common and associated with poor physical, psychological, and relational outcomes for both partners. Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT) is a short-term structured approach based on attachment theory that integrates a humanistic, experiential approach to restructuring emotional experience and a systemic structural approach to restructuring interactions. This model has been shown to be an effective treatment for couple distress. The supporting research, however, has only been conducted with English-speaking couples. Despite Spanish being the second-most spoken language and meaningful cultural differences between English- and Spanish-speaking countries, the efficacy of EFT has not been examined in this cultural context. This study will examine the efficacy of EFT in this particular context and advance the understanding of potential mechanisms of change.

Methods

We will use a multicenter randomized wait-list controlled design to examine the efficacy of EFT in a Spanish-speaking sample of moderately distressed couples. One hundred forty individuals in 70 couples in Argentina, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, and Spain will be randomly assigned to receive 19–21 sessions of EFT or be placed on a waitlist. Outcomes on a range of relational and individual mental health variables will be assessed prior to random assignment, throughout treatment, and at the conclusion of treatment. Primary outcomes will include dyadic adjustment, couple satisfaction, and attachment. Secondary variables, such as loneliness, parenting, affective communication, and sexual satisfaction, will be included as potential mediators of the treatment effect. Couples in the treatment group will also be assessed at 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month follow-ups. Process variables such as the therapeutic alliance will also be assessed routinely in couples assigned to the treatment group. Couples in the waitlist will receive a psycho-educational program based on EFT after completing the study.

Discussion

This study will be the first RCT of Emotionally Focused Therapy in a Spanish-speaking context. The results of the study will inform researchers interested in whether treatments developed and tested in the USA and Canada can be effective in differing cultural contexts. It may also point researchers and clinicians to areas where cultural adaptation is needed to improve efficacy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04277325. Registered on February 20, 2020
Societal drivers of human echinococcosis in China
Authors: Wang Li-Ying , Qin Min , Gavotte Laurent , Wu Wei-Ping , Cheng Xixi , Lei Jia-Xi , Yan Jun , Frutos Roger
Published: October 2022

Background

Echinococcosis is a parasitic zoonotic disease that threatens human health and economic development. In China, 370 counties are endemic for echinococcosis. Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has the most patients and people at risk. Therefore, analyzing the societal factors related to susceptibility to the disease is critical for efficient prevention and control of echinococcosis.

Methods

The demographic characteristics and lifestyle of echinococcosis cases were clustered using K-means cluster analysis to determine the main factors of risk of echinococcosis.

Results

Middle-aged and young people as well as those with a low education level and herdsmen are at risk of contracting echinococcosis. Nomadism, domestic and feral dogs in the surrounding environment, and drinking heavily polluted natural surface water are the main behavioral risk factors. The cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE) cluster analysis focused on female, middle-aged, and young people, winter settlement and summer nomadism, and domestic and feral dogs in the surrounding environment. There were significant differences in lifestyle between Qinghai-Tibet Plateau cases and non-Qinghai-Tibet-Plateau cases.

Conclusion

According to the distribution of cases and CE and AE, this study identified the factors of risk of echinococcosis in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and non-Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Adapted control techniques appropriate for the various epidemic areas should be established to serve as a reference for echinococcosis prevention.

Graphical Abstract