bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Recovery Following Critical Illness: A Systematic Review of Home-Based Interventions
Authors: Holod Alicia F. , Choi JiYeon , Tate Judith
Published: October 2022

Around 5 million Americans are treated in an intensive care unit (ICU) annually. Upon discharge, it is not uncommon for ICU survivors to experience psychological, physical, or cognitive symptoms related to their ICU stay. Home-based interventions have been touted as a potential treatment modality for post-ICU sequelae. However, limited evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of home-based interventions for patients in the post-ICU recovery period. As such, the purpose of this review was to aggregate and summarize the findings of studies focused on post-ICU rehabilitation, following critical illness, delivered in the home setting. A literature search was performed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, APA PsycINFO, and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they: used a RCT or quasi-experimental study design; included participants aged ≥18 years discharged home from an ICU; examined the effectiveness of a home-based, post-ICU intervention; were published in English after the year 2010; and were peer-reviewed. Nine studies met inclusion criteria. Sample sizes ranged from 21 to 386, with most participants receiving mechanical ventilation. Target outcomes included: physical function, psychological well-being, cognitive function, quality of life, and healthcare utilization. Interventions included face-to-face, web-based, telephone, or self-directed activities. Findings of included studies were mixed or inconclusive. Limitations of this review include: inclusion of only adult ICU survivors, exclusion of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome as a search term, and search restricted to pre-pandemic studies. Findings suggest a need for more rigorous research to develop and test home-based interventions.
The Influence of Racial Minorities and Ethnic Heterogeneity in the Estimation of Homicide Rates in the Northeast Region of Brazil: Implications for Social Disorganization Theory in the Global South
Authors: Silva Carlos Fabricio Assunção da , de Melo Silas Nogueira , Vaughan Adam David , Santos Alex Mota dos , de Almeida Junior Pedro Monteiro
Published: October 2022

Using social disorganization theory, the present study considers the concentration of racial minorities and the degree of ethnic heterogeneity to provide an estimation of homicide rates in the Northeast region of Brazil. Three hypotheses were considered: (1) there is a positive association between homicides and ethnic heterogeneity and black/indigenous populations, (2) the magnitude of ethnic heterogeneity is greater than race/minority groups on homicides, and (3) metropolitan regions will be associated with an increase in homicides. Through spatial modelling techniques, results indicate the plausibility of first and third hypotheses. Implications for homicide prevention and social disorganization theory in global south are discussed.
Improving the health of adolescents: the Nordic countries can help fill the evidence gap
Authors: Klepp Knut-Inge , Helleve Arnfinn , Fismen Anne-Siri , Rutter Harry
Published: October 2022

While in the Nordic countries we have well-developed welfare policies and several structural, statutory measures in place aiming to promote public health, studies from these countries are often absent from systematic reviews of research literature assessing the effects of policy measures designed to promote health. Using adolescent health promotion and efforts related to primary prevention of obesity as an example, this short commentary aims to illustrate the paucity of well-designed studies investigating the effects of public health policies affecting adolescents. This paper argues that the Nordic research community is in a good position to help fill this gap, and to contribute more widely to the international literature on evaluation of policy interventions.
Why embrace a double-edged sword? A behavioral theory of board political capital building
Authors: Gao Renfei , Martin Geoffrey , Hu Helen Wei , Lu Jane Wenzhen
Published: October 2022

Firm political connections are widely recognized to have both positive and negative implications, but why do firms build political connections in the first place? Distinct from prior research that typically views firm political connections as capital stock, we focus on board political capital building—selecting new directors with political backgrounds—as a strategic decision. Drawing on the behavioral theory of the firm, we examine how board political capital building is driven by performance shortfalls based on the logic of problemistic search—seeking the potential benefits of political connections while undertaking the potential downsides. Using director selection data on Chinese listed firms, we find that firms with higher performance shortfalls are more inclined to select new independent directors with political backgrounds. We further demonstrate that it is more feasible for firms with performance shortfalls to build lower-level board political capital but infeasible for them to build upper-level political capital.
Effects of Chlorhexidine-Iodophor Composite Solution on the Viability and Proliferation of Human Skin Fibroblasts Infected by S. aureus – An in Vitro Experiment
Authors: Luo Yixin , Wei Xiaocui , Mai Lifang , Liu Xingzhou , Yang Chuan
Published: October 2022

Background: The chlorhexidine-iodophor (CHX-IP) composite solution is a polymer of chlorhexidine and iodophor, applicable to the control of local microbial load and probably toxic to fibroblasts. However, the effect of CHX-IP on the viability and proliferation of human skin fibroblasts infected by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) remains unknown. Objective: The effects of CHX-IP composite solution on the viability and proliferation of human skin fibroblasts infected by S. aureus were investigated in vitro cell culture in this study. Methods: Optimum multiplicity of infection (MOI) was determined to construct the S. aureus-fibroblast co-culture model. Cell Viability Assay was applied to obtain optical density (OD) value and calculate cell viability. 5-ethynyl-2′- deoxyuridine (EdU) assay was used to investigate the effect of CHX-IP on the proliferation of human skin fibroblasts infected by S. aureus. Results: 10:1 was the optimum MOI for the S. aureus-fibroblast co-culture model. The OD value of human skin fibroblasts infected by S. aureus increased in the blank control group, 0.625 mg/ml, 0.3125 mg/ml, 0.15625 mg/ml, and 0.075625 mg/ml groups after four hours. While that of the negative control group, 5 mg/ml, 2.5 mg/ml, and 1.25 mg/ml groups decreased over time. The two-way ANOVA results indicated that the OD value of human skin fibroblasts infected by S. aureus was significantly different among different CHX-IP concentration groups (F = 34.05, P < .001), and the interaction effect between concentration and time was significant (F = 9.442, P < .001). The results of the EdU cell proliferation assay showed that the blank control group, 0.625 mg/ml CHX-IP group, and 0.075625 mg/ml CHX-IP group had an enhanced fibroblasts cell proliferation, while the fibroblasts cell proliferation of the negative control group and 5 mg/ml CHX-IP group was inhibited. Conclusion: The viability and proliferation of human skin fibroblasts infected by S. aureus were inhibited, while specific concentrations of CHX-IP solution can counteract or even reverse the proliferation inhibition effect.
The Meaningful Participation of Women in Solving Our Common Crises: Gendered Perspectives on Climate Change and the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus
Authors: Ensor Marisa O.
Published: October 2022

Often compounding each other, current trends including climate change, environmental degradation, and increased consumption associated with unsustainable development and population growth, present serious threats to human security at global, national, and local levels. These trends are destabilizing economies, negating development gains, exacerbating gender-based violence against women and girls, and undermining global peace and security. This situation is particularly pronounced in countries like South Sudan where women and girls have often borne the brunt of multiple shocks and stresses. South Sudanese women are nevertheless engaging in diverse initiatives to promote peace, development, and more equitable environmental governance. This paper examines the circumstances that facilitate women’s meaningful participation in peacebuilding, post-conflict recovery, and climate change adaptation. Findings from an analysis of three local organizations underscore the significance of adopting a gender-transformative, intersectional approach to peacebuilding, humanitarian response, and development efforts, especially in contexts impacted by the adverse effects of climate change.
Things are looking up: Vertical eye gaze in the environment affects perceptions of emotional valence in sad faces
Authors: Flusberg Stephen J , Shapiro Derek , Collister Kevin B , Thibodeau Paul H
Published: October 2022

Successful social interactions depend on the ability to quickly evaluate emotional facial expressions. Research has shown that head orientation and eye gaze are informative affective signals. Across four experiments, we explored a novel eye-gaze cue grounded in a consideration of English spatial metaphors, where up connotes positive feelings (“I’m flying high”) and down connotes negative feelings (“I’m feeling low”). Participants either rated the valence of or categorised a set of sad and happy faces gazing in different directions along the vertical axis. We expected to find a spatial–valence congruency effect, where valence ratings and reaction times would be moderated by whether or not the face was gazing in a metaphor-consistent direction. The results partially supported this hypothesis: sad faces gazing upwards (as opposed to downwards) were rated as happier or more positive (Experiments 1 and 2) and classified slower (Experiments 3 and 4). This was true whether the looking direction was cued by eye gaze in front-view faces (Experiment 1) or by the orientation of profile faces (Experiments 2–4). In addition, this spatial–valence congruency effect was only reliable in the environmental frame of reference (Experiment 4). We found little evidence for a comparable effect of gaze direction on judgements of happy faces, suggesting that eye gaze along the vertical axis may differentially affect judgements of approach and avoidance-related emotional expressions. This has implications for the inferences scholars draw about underlying cognitive representations from observations of conventional metaphorical language.
Anti-Inflammatory and Chondro-Protective Effects of Acidic Polysaccharide from Enteromorpha Prolifera in Experimental Models of Osteoarthritis In-Vitro and In-Vivo
Authors: Wang Chih-Chien , Lu Jeng-Wei , Chiang Kuang-Hsing , Cheng Yu-Shuan , Chu You-Hsiang , Peng Yi-Jen , Cheng Chia-Hui , Chang Chia-Yu , Chuu Jiunn-Jye
Published: October 2022

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) progression has been shown to increase the expression of inflammatory cytokines in joints, leading to the destruction of cartilage matrix. Interleukin (IL)-1β is a potent inflammatory cytokine associated with osteoarthritic synovial fluid. The protective effects of polysaccharides from Enteromorpha prolifera against acute hepatic injury was reported.

Design

In this study, we examined the effects of Enteromorpha polysaccharide extracts (EPEs) in the treatment of OA. The effects of the EPEs were assessed using an IL-1β-stimulated SW1353 and SW982 cells. The expression levels of specific mRNA and proteins were evaluated using semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (sqRT-PCR) and western immunoblotting. An OA animal study involving C57BL/6J mice was also conducted to assess the effects on tactile sensitivity and anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT).

Results

Acidic polysaccharide extract (APE) was shown to significantly reduce cytokine and chemokine mRNA levels in IL-1β-stimulated SW1353 and SW982 cells and attenuate the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and p38/AP-1 in SW1353 cells. APE was also shown to minimize the effect of osteolytic lesions in the knee joints of ACLT-induced osteoarthritic mice.

Conclusions

APE is a potent inhibitor of joint degeneration associated with OA.
The Networking “Menu”: Fostering Student Networking in Online Management Courses
Authors: McCauley Kelly Davis
Published: October 2022

The Networking “Menu” is a customizable learning experience for online students to explore various ways to network virtually and to sharpen their networking skills. The “menu” offers four networking options for students to select from. Some networking options require that students network with their peers via virtual platforms (e.g., an online coffee break/happy hour and a shared activity), while other options (e.g., a network analysis and 5-minute favors) explore key networking concepts. The Networking “Menu” simulates the networking that occurs within the campus setting and challenges student perceptions that networking is “icky” by providing students with online networking opportunities that benefit others. This learning experience is applicable to online synchronous/asynchronous courses in organizational behavior (or other courses that cover networking concepts) at the undergraduate and graduate levels. A description of The Networking “Menu” options, supplemental materials for implementing the options, and questions for debriefing the exercise is provided.
Development of an Artificial Intelligence-Based Machine Tool to Predict Outcome in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Menon Girish , KS Hareesha , Gajula Karthik , Kumar Sampath , Hegde Ajay
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage is the second most common type of stroke with high morbidity and mortality. Outcome prediction is very important in this disease, to enable us tailor treatment strategies especially in a low- and middle-income countries. Today, prediction is predominantly limited to few clinical factors and may not be very accurate. We explore the application of an artificial intelligence-based platform for outcome prediction with a combination of clinical, radiological, and biochemical parameters.

Methods:

Data from our prospectively maintained stroke register was cleaned and processed using the XGBoost machine learning (ML) algorithm to predict outcome at discharge and 90 days using the modified Rankin scale. A total of 1,000 patients were included in the study, 129 variables were pruned to 19 significant features during the phase of preprocessing.

Results:

The data set was split 9:1 with 900 cases being used for training and the remaining 100 for validation. The models were evaluated based on the mean absolute error (MAE). Model-1 trained for predicting “mRS_Discharge” had a MAE of 0.34 and model-2 trained for predicting “mRS_3months” had a MAE of 0.63.

Conclusion:

ML algorithms can be successfully applied for the prediction of outcome in intracerebral hemorrhage.
Distinct clonal identities of B-ALLs arising after lenolidomide therapy for multiple myeloma
Authors: Barnell Erica K. , Skidmore Zachary L. , Newcomer Kenneth F. , Chavez Monique , Campbell Katie M. , Cotto Kelsy C. , Spies Nicholas C. , Ruzinova Marianna B. , Wang Tianjiao , Abro Brooj , Kreisel Friederike , Parikh Bijal A. , Duncavage Eric J. , Frater John L. , Lee Yi-Shan , Hassan Anjum , King Justin A. , Kohnen Daniel R. , Fiala Mark A. , Welch John S. , Uy Geoffrey L. , Vij Kiran , Vij Ravi , Griffith Malachi , Griffith Obi L. , Wartman Lukas D.
Published: October 2022

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who are treated with lenalidomide rarely develop a secondary B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). The clonal and biological relationship between these sequential malignancies is not yet clear. We identified 17 patients with MM treated with lenalidomide, who subsequently developed B-ALL. Patient samples were evaluated through sequencing, cytogenetics/fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, and immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) clonality assessment. Samples were assessed for shared mutations and recurrently mutated genes. Through whole exome sequencing and cytogenetics/FISH analysis of 7 paired samples (MM vs matched B-ALL), no mutational overlap between samples was observed. Unique dominant IgH clonotypes between the tumors were observed in 5 paired MM/B-ALL samples. Across all 17 B-ALL samples, 14 (83%) had a TP53 variant detected. Three MM samples with sufficient sequencing depth (>500×) revealed rare cells (average of 0.6% variant allele frequency, or 1.2% of cells) with the same TP53 variant identified in the subsequent B-ALL sample. A lack of mutational overlap between MM and B-ALL samples shows that B-ALL developed as a second malignancy arising from a founding population of cells that likely represented unrelated clonal hematopoiesis caused by a TP53 mutation. The recurrent variants in TP53 in the B-ALL samples suggest a common path for malignant transformation that may be similar to that of TP53-mutant, treatment-related acute myeloid leukemia. The presence of rare cells containing TP53 variants in bone marrow at the initiation of lenalidomide treatment suggests that cellular populations containing TP53 variants expand in the presence of lenalidomide to increase the likelihood of B-ALL development.
Clinical applications of machine learning in predicting 3D shapes of the human body: a systematic review
Authors: Wang Joyce Zhanzi , Lillia Jonathon , Kumar Ashnil , Bray Paula , Kim Jinman , Burns Joshua , Cheng Tegan L.
Published: October 2022

Background

Predicting morphological changes to anatomical structures from 3D shapes such as blood vessels or appearance of the face is a growing interest to clinicians. Machine learning (ML) has had great success driving predictions in 2D, however, methods suitable for 3D shapes are unclear and the use cases unknown.

Objective and methods

This systematic review aims to identify the clinical implementation of 3D shape prediction and ML workflows. Ovid-MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science were searched until 28th March 2022.

Results

13,754 articles were identified, with 12 studies meeting final inclusion criteria. These studies involved prediction of the face, head, aorta, forearm, and breast, with most aiming to visualize shape changes after surgical interventions. ML algorithms identified were regressions (67%), artificial neural networks (25%), and principal component analysis (8%). Meta-analysis was not feasible due to the heterogeneity of the outcomes.

Conclusion

3D shape prediction is a nascent but growing area of research in medicine. This review revealed the feasibility of predicting 3D shapes using ML clinically, which could play an important role for clinician-patient visualization and communication. However, all studies were early phase and there were inconsistent language and reporting. Future work could develop guidelines for publication and promote open sharing of source code.
A web-based database server using 43,710 public RNA-seq samples for the analysis of gene expression and alternative splicing in livestock animals
Authors: Liu Jinding , Lang Kun , Tan Suxu , Jie Wencai , Zhu Yihua , Huang Shiqing , Huang Wen
Published: October 2022

Background

Livestock animals is of great significance in agricultural production. However, the role of specific gene expression, especially alternative splicing in determining phenotype, is not well understood. The livestock research community needs a gene expression and alternative splicing database contributing to livestock genetic improvement.

Description

We report the construction of LivestockExp (https://bioinfo.njau.edu.cn/livestockExp), a web-based database server for the exploration of gene expression and alternative splicing using 43,710 uniformly processed RNA-seq samples from livestock animals and several relative species across six orders. The database is equipped with basic querying functions and multiple online analysis modules including differential/specific expression analysis, co-expression network analysis, and cross-species gene expression conservation analysis. In addition to the re-analysis of public datasets, users can upload personal datasets to perform co-analysis with public datasets. The database also offers a wide range of visualization tools and diverse links to external databases enabling users to efficiently explore the results and to gain additional insights.

Conclusion

LivestockExp covers by far the largest number of livestock animal species and RNA-seq samples and provides a valuable data resource and analysis platform for the convenient utilization of public RNA-seq datasets.
Identification and characteristics of SnRK genes and cold stress-induced expression profiles in Liriodendron chinense
Authors: Li Rongxue , Radani Yasmina , Ahmad Baseer , Movahedi Ali , Yang Liming
Published: October 2022

Background

The sucrose non-fermenting 1 (SNF1)-related protein kinases (SnRKs) play a vivid role in regulating plant metabolism and stress response, providing a pathway for regulation between metabolism and stress signals. Conducting identification and stress response studies on SnRKs in plants contributes to the development of strategies for tree species that are more tolerant to stress conditions.

Results

In the present study, a total of 30 LcSnRKs were identified in Liriodendron chinense (L. chinense) genome, which was distributed across 15 chromosomes and 4 scaffolds. It could be divided into three subfamilies: SnRK1, SnRK2, and SnRK3 based on phylogenetic analysis and domain types. The LcSnRK of the three subfamilies shared the same Ser/Thr kinase structure in gene structure and motif composition, while the functional domains, except for the kinase domain, showed significant differences. A total of 13 collinear gene pairs were detected in L. chinense and Arabidopsis thaliana (A. thaliana), and 18 pairs were detected in L. chinense and rice, suggesting that the LcSnRK family genes may be evolutionarily more closely related to rice. Cis-regulation element analysis showed that LcSnRKs were LTR and TC-rich, which could respond to different environmental stresses. Furthermore, the expression patterns of LcSnRKs are different at different times under low-temperature stress. LcSnRK1s expression tended to be down-regulated under low-temperature stress. The expression of LcSnRK2s tended to be up-regulated under low-temperature stress. The expression trend of LcSnRK3s under low-temperature stress was mainly up-or down-regulated.

Conclusion

The results of this study will provide valuable information for the functional identification of the LcSnRK gene in the future.
ELOVL gene family plays a virtual role in response to breeding selection and lipid deposition in different tissues in chicken (Gallus gallus)
Authors: Wang Dandan , Li Xinyan , Zhang Panpan , Cao Yuzhu , Zhang Ke , Qin Panpan , Guo Yulong , Li Zhuanjian , Tian Yadong , Kang Xiangtao , Liu Xiaojun , Li Hong
Published: October 2022

Background

Elongases of very long chain fatty acids (ELOVLs), a family of first rate-limiting enzymes in the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids, play an essential role in the biosynthesis of complex lipids. Disrupting any of ELOVLs affects normal growth and development in mammals. Genetic variations in ELOVLs are associated with backfat or intramuscular fatty acid composition in livestock. However, the effects of ELOVL gene family on breeding selection and lipid deposition in different tissues are still unknown in chickens.

Results

Genetic variation patterns and genetic associations analysis showed that the genetic variations of ELOVL genes were contributed to breeding selection of commercial varieties in chicken, and 14 SNPs in ELOVL2-6 were associated with body weight, carcass or fat deposition traits. Especially, one SNP rs17631638T > C in the promoter of ELOVL3 was associated with intramuscular fat content (IMF), and its allele frequency was significantly higher in native and layer breeds compared to that in commercial broiler breeds. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) determined that the ELOVL3 expressions in pectoralis were affected by the genotypes of rs17631638T > C. In addition, the transcription levels of ELOVL genes except ELOVL5 were regulated by estrogen in chicken liver and hypothalamus with different regulatory pathways. The expression levels of ELOVL1-6 in hypothalamus, liver, abdominal fat and pectoralis were correlated with abdominal fat weight, abdominal fat percentage, liver lipid content and IMF. Noteworthily, expression of ELOVL3 in pectoralis was highly positively correlated with IMF and glycerophospholipid molecules, including phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, phosphatidyl glycerol and phospholipids inositol, rich in ω-3 and ω-6 long-chain unsaturated fatty acids, suggesting ELOVL3 could contribute to intramuscular fat deposition by increasing the proportion of long-chain unsaturated glycerophospholipid molecules in pectoralis.

Conclusions

In summary, we demonstrated the genetic contribution of ELOVL gene family to breeding selection for specialized varieties, and revealed the expression regulation of ELOVL genes and their potential roles in regulating lipid deposition in different tissues. This study provides new insights into understanding the functions of ELOVL family on avian growth and lipid deposition in different tissues and the genetic variation in ELOVL3 may aid the marker-assisted selection of meat quality in chicken.
Arterial Glyceryl Trinitrate in Acute Ischemic Stroke after Thrombectomy for Neuroprotection (AGAIN): Rationale, design and protocol for a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gao Jie , Cheng Zhe , Jiang Shangqian , Wills Melissa , Wehbe Alexandra , Rajah Gary B. , Geng Xiaokun , Ding Yuchuan
Published: October 2022

Background

Although endovascular recanalization therapy demonstrates robust clinical efficacy in acute ischemic stroke (AIS), not all victims of these cerebrovascular accidents can benefit from it and achieve a favorable prognosis after successful reperfusion. Therefore, alternative neuroprotective strategies are urgently needed for AIS patients after vessel recanalization. Nitric oxide (NO) levels are low after AIS and NO donor drugs may be neuroprotective against cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury. Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), often used in the clinic as a NO donor, may provide a novel neuroprotective strategy. This rationale, design, and protocol for a prospective pilot study plans to explore the preliminary safety, feasibility, and neuroprotective benefits of Arterial Glyceryl Trinitrate in Acute Ischemic Stroke after Thrombectomy for Neuroprotection (AGAIN).

Methods

AGAIN, a prospective RCT, is proposed for AIS patients after mechanical thrombectomy. Subjects will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 fashion (n = 40) to either the control group or the intervention group. Participants assigned to the intervention group will be administered 800 μg GTN in the catheter immediately after recanalization, whereas those in the control group will be administered the same volume of normal saline. All participants from either group will be given concurrent treatment with standard of care therapies in accordance with the current guidelines for stroke management. The primary outcome is safety [symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), hypotension, neurological deterioration, ICH, fatal ICH, as well as headache, tachycardia, emesis, and seizures], whereas secondary outcomes included changes in poststroke functional outcomes, infarction volumes, and blood nitrate index detection.

Discussions

This study is a prospective randomized controlled trial to test the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial GTN in AIS patients after endovascular therapy. The results from this study will give insight for future GTN studies and new neuroprotective strategies for future AIS treatment strategies.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100045254. Registered on March 21, 2021.
Reducing risks for infant mortality in the Midlands, UK: a qualitative study identifying areas for improvement in the delivery of key public health messages in the perinatal period
Authors: Pillay Thillagavathie , Feeney Jane , Walters Claire , Nelson Hollie , Thomas Lucy , Lewis Dawn , Anderson Karen , Petkar Anjali
Published: October 2022

Background:

The Midlands has amongst the highest rates of neonatal and infant mortality in the UK. A public health parent education and empowerment programme, aimed at reducing key risks associated with this mortality was established and evaluated in the region. This was undertaken in an attempt to identify areas for optimal delivery of the public health messages around reducing risks for neonatal and infant mortality.

Method:

Qualitatively assessment, using the software package Dedoose®, was undertaken. This involved analysis of reflections by the programme trainers, after the delivery of their training sessions to parents, families and carers, between 01 January and 31 December 2021. These were intended to capture insights from the trainers on parent, family, carer and staff perspectives, perceptions/misperceptions around reducing risks for infant mortality. Potential areas for improvement in delivery of the programme were identified from this analysis.

Results:

A total of 323 programmes, comprising 524 parents, family members and carers were offered the programme. Analysis of 167 reflections around these interactions and those of staff (n = 29) are reported. The programme was positively received across parents, families, carers and staff. Four overall themes were identified: (a) reach and inclusion, (b) knowledge, (c) practical and emotional support and (d) challenges for delivery of the programme. Recommendations for improved delivery of the programme were identified, based on qualitative analysis.

Conclusion:

This novel approach to empowerment and education around neonatal public health messaging is a valuable tool for parents, families, carers and staff in the Midlands. Key practical recommendations for enhancing delivery of these critical public health messages were identified from this qualitative research. These are likely to be of value in other parts of the UK and globally.
CD4 and FOXP3 as predictive markers for the recurrence of T3/T4a stage II colorectal cancer: applying a novel discrete Bayes decision rule
Authors: Nakagami Yuki , Hazama Shoichi , Suzuki Nobuaki , Yoshida Shin , Tomochika Shinobu , Matsui Hiroto , Shindo Yoshitaro , Tokumitsu Yukio , Matsukuma Satoshi , Watanabe Yusaku , Iida Michihisa , Tsunedomi Ryouichi , Takeda Shigeru , Fujita Tomonobu , Kawakami Yutaka , Ogihara Hiroyuki , Hamamoto Yoshihiko , Ioka Tatsuya , Tanabe Tsuyoshi , Ueno Tomio , Nagano Hiroaki
Published: October 2022

Background

We recently reported the relapse-free survival (RFS) significance of the combination of CD4+ and forkhead box P3+ (FOXP3) T-cell densities identified by immunohistochemistry in patients with stage I, II, and III colorectal cancer (CRC) who underwent curative resections. This study was designed to determine the optimal combination of markers that predict recurrence in patients with T factors of T3/T4a stage II CRC by applying a novel Bayes decision rule.

Methods

Using 137 cancer tissue specimens from T3/T4a stage II patients, 12 clinicopathologic and immune factors were analysed as predictive candidates for recurrence.

Results

Our study showed that the combination of low CD4+ and low FOXP3+ T-cell densities resulted in extremely poor RFS.

Conclusions

Adjuvant chemotherapy may be considered for patients with a combination of low CD4+ and low FOXP3+ T-cell densities. The discovery of this new prognostic indicator is important for the appropriate management of patients undergoing curative resection for T3/T4a stage II CRC.
Autosomal dominant Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy caused by a mutation in the lamin A/C gene identified by exome sequencing: a case report
Authors: Iskandar Kristy , Sunartini  , Astari Farida Niken , Gumilang Rizki Amalia , Ilma Nissya , Shartyanie Ni Putu , Adistyawan Guritno , Tan Grace , Gunadi  , Lai Poh San
Published: October 2022

Background

Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy (EDMD) is an uncommon genetic disease among the group of muscular dystrophies. EDMD is clinically heterogeneous and resembles other muscular dystrophies. Mutation of the lamin A/C (LMNA) gene, which causes EDMD, also causes many other diseases. There is inter and intrafamilial variability in clinical presentations. Precise diagnosis can help in patient surveillance, especially before they present with cardiac problems. Hence, this paper shows how a molecular work-out by next-generation sequencing can help this group of disorders.

Case presentation

A 2-year-10-month-old Javanese boy presented to our clinic with weakness in lower limbs and difficulty climbing stairs. The clinical features of the boy were Gower's sign, waddling gait and high CK level. His father presented with elbow contractures and heels, toe walking and weakness of limbs, pelvic, and peroneus muscles. Exome sequencing on this patient detected a pathogenic variant in theLMNAgene (NM_170707: c.C1357T: NP_733821: p.Arg453Trp) that has been reported to cause Autosomal Dominant Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy. Further examination showed total atrioventricular block and atrial fibrillation in the father.

Conclusion

EDMD is a rare disabling muscular disease that poses a diagnostic challenge. Family history work-up and thorough neuromuscular physical examinations are needed. Early diagnosis is essential to recognize orthopaedic and cardiac complications, improving the clinical management and prognosis of the disease. Exome sequencing could successfully determine pathogenic variants to provide a conclusive diagnosis.
COVID-19 epidemiology and changes in health service utilization in Uganda’s refugee settlements during the first year of the pandemic
Authors: Altare Chiara , Kostandova Natalya , OKeeffe Jennifer , Omwony Emmanuel , Nyakoojo Ronald , Kasozi Julius , Spiegel Paul B.
Published: October 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has been characterized by multiple waves with varying rates of transmission affecting countries at different times and magnitudes. Forced displacement settings were considered particularly at risk due to pre-existing vulnerabilities. Yet, the effects of COVID-19 in refugee settings are not well understood. In this study, we report on the epidemiology of COVID-19 cases in Uganda’s refugee settlement regions of West Nile, Center and South, and evaluate how health service utilization changed during the first year of the pandemic.

Methods

We calculate descriptive statistics, testing rates, and incidence rates of COVID-19 cases in UNHCR’s line list and adjusted odds ratios for selected outcomes. We evaluate the changes in health services using monthly routine data from UNHCR’s health information system (January 2017 to March 2021) and apply interrupted time series analysis with a generalized additive model and negative binomial distribution, accounting for long-term trends and seasonality, reporting results as incidence rate ratios.

Findings

The first COVID-19 case was registered in Uganda on March 20, 2020, and among refugees two months later on May 22, 2020 in Adjumani settlement. Incidence rates were higher at national level for the general population compared to refugees by region and overall. Testing capacity in the settlements was lower compared to the national level. Characteristics of COVID-19 cases among refugees in Uganda seem to align with the global epidemiology of COVID-19. Only hospitalization rate was higher than globally reported. The indirect effects of COVID-19 on routine health services and outcomes appear quite consistent across regions. Maternal and child routine and preventative health services seem to have been less affected by COVID-19 than consultations for acute conditions. All regions reported a decrease in consultations for respiratory tract infections.

Interpretation

COVID-19 transmission seemed lower in settlement regions than the national average, but so was testing capacity. Disruptions to health services were limited, and mainly affected consultations for acute conditions. This study, focusing on the first year of the pandemic, warrants follow-up research to investigate how susceptibility evolved over time, and how and whether health services could be maintained.
Self-efficacy and oral health outcomes in a regional Australian Aboriginal population
Authors: Parker Eleanor Jane , Haag Dandara Gabriela , Spencer Andrew John , Roberts-Thomson Kaye , Jamieson Lisa Marie
Published: October 2022

Background

Perceived self-efficacy has been associated with psychological well-being, health behaviours and health outcomes. Little is known about the influence of self-efficacy on oral health outcomes for Aboriginal adults in Australia, a population experiencing high levels of oral health conditions. This study examines associations between oral health-related self-efficacy and oral health outcomes in a regional Aboriginal Australian population and investigates whether the associations persist after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and other general and oral health-related psychosocial factors.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were obtained from the baseline questionnaire of the Indigenous Oral Heath Literacy Project, South Australia. Oral health-related self-efficacy was measured using a six item scale, with total sum scores dichotomised into high/low self-efficacy. Oral health outcomes included self-rated oral health and oral health impacts, measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). Generalized linear models with a log-Poisson link function were used to estimate Prevalence Ratios (PR) of poor self-rated oral health according to levels of oral health-related self-efficacy. Multivariable linear regressions were used to estimate the association between oral health-related self-efficacy and OHIP-14 scores. Blocks of confounders were subsequently added into the models, with the final model including all factors.

Results

Complete data were available for 252 participants (63%) aged 18 to 82 years (mean age of 37.6 years). Oral health-related self-efficacy was associated with poor self-rated oral health, with a 43% (PR = 1.43 (95% CI 1.09, 1.88)) greater prevalence of poor self-rated oral health among those with low self-efficacy. Oral health-related self-efficacy was associated with OHIP-14 severity scores, with a score over six points higher for those with low self-efficacy (B = 6.27 95% CI 2.71, 9.83). Although addition of perceived stress into the models attenuated the relationship, associations remained in the final models.

Conclusion

Lower levels of oral health-related self-efficacy were associated with a higher prevalence of poor self-rated oral health and greater impacts of oral health among Aboriginal adults in regional South Australia. These associations persisted after controlling for sociodemographic and psychosocial confounders, suggesting that increasing self-efficacy may provide an opportunity for improving oral health outcomes for Aboriginal adults.
Monte Carlo cross-validation for a study with binary outcome and limited sample size
Authors: Shan Guogen
Published: October 2022

Cross-validation (CV) is a resampling approach to evaluate machine learning models when sample size is limited. The number of all possible combinations of folds for the training data, known as CV rounds, are often very small in leave-one-out CV. Alternatively, Monte Carlo cross-validation (MCCV) can be performed with a flexible number of simulations when computational resources are feasible for a study with limited sample size. We conduct extensive simulation studies to compare accuracy between MCCV and CV with the same number of simulations for a study with binary outcome (e.g., disease progression or not). Accuracy of MCCV is generally higher than CV although the gain is small. They have similar performance when sample size is large. Meanwhile, MCCV is going to provide reliable performance metrics as the number of simulations increases. Two real examples are used to illustrate the comparison between MCCV and CV.
Transcription factor FfMYB15 regulates the expression of cellulase gene FfCEL6B during mycelial growth of Flammulina filiformis
Authors: Liu Zongqi , Deng Bing , Yuan Hui , Zhang Benfeng , Liu Jingyu , Meng Junlong , Chang Mingchang
Published: October 2022

Background

Cellulose degradation can determine mycelial growth rate and affect yield during the growth ofFlammulina filiformis. The degradation of cellulose requires the joint action of a variety of cellulases, and some cellulase-related genes have been detected in mushrooms. However, little is known about the transcriptional regulatory mechanisms of cellulose degradation.

Results

In this study, FfMYB15 that may regulate the expression of cellulase geneFfCEL6BinF. filiformiswas identified. RNA interference (RNAi) showed thatFfCEL6Bpositively regulated mycelial growth. Gene expression analyses indicated that the expression patterns ofFfCEL6BandFfMYB15in mycelia cultured on the 0.9% cellulose medium for different times were similar with a correlation coefficient of 0.953. Subcellular localization and transcriptional activity analyses implied that FfMYB15 was located in the nucleus and was a transcriptional activator. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and dual-luciferase assays demonstrated that FfMYB15 could bind and activateFfCEL6Bpromoter by recognizing MYB cis-acting element.

Conclusions

This study indicated thatFfCEL6Bplayed an active role in mycelial growth ofF. filiformisand was regulated by FfMYB15.
The single cell transcriptional landscape of esophageal adenocarcinoma and its modulation by neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Croft Wayne , Evans Richard P. T. , Pearce Hayden , Elshafie Mona , Griffiths Ewen A. , Moss Paul
Published: October 2022

Immune checkpoint blockade has recently proven effective in subsets of patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) but little is known regarding the EAC immune microenvironment. We determined the single cell transcriptional profile of EAC in 8 patients who were treatment-naive (n = 4) or had received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (n = 4). Analysis of 52,387 cells revealed 10 major cell subsets of tumor, immune and stromal cells. Prior to chemotherapy tumors were heavy infiltrated by T regulatory cells and exhausted effector T cells whilst plasmacytoid dendritic cells were markedly expanded. Two dominant cancer-associated fibroblast populations were also observed whilst endothelial populations were suppressed. Pathological remission following chemotherapy associated with broad reversal of immune abnormalities together with fibroblast transition and an increase in endothelial cells whilst a chemoresistant epithelial stem cell population correlated with poor response. These findings reveal features that underlie and limit the response to current immunotherapy and identify a range of novel opportunities for targeted therapy.
Identification of a necroptosis-related prognostic gene signature associated with tumor immune microenvironment in cervical carcinoma and experimental verification
Authors: Sun Kai , Huang Cheng , Li Jing-zhang , Luo Zhan-xiong
Published: October 2022

Cervical carcinoma (CC) has been associated with high morbidity, poor prognosis, and high intratumor heterogeneity. Necroptosis is the significant cellular signal pathway in tumors which may overcome tumor cells’ apoptosis resistance. To investigate the relationship between CC and necroptosis, we established a prognostic model based on necroptosis-related genes for predicting the overall survival (OS) of CC patients. The gene expression data and clinical information of cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We identified 43 differentially expressed necroptosis-related genes (NRGs) in CESC by examining differential gene expression between CESC tumors and normal tissues, and 159 NRGs from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analysis illustrated that the genes identified were mainly related to cell necrosis, extrinsic apoptosis, Influenza A, I − kappaB kinase/NF − kappaB, NOD − like receptor, and other signaling pathways. Subsequently, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to screen for NRGs that were correlated with patient prognosis. A prognostic signature that includes CAMK2A, CYBB, IL1A, IL1B, SLC25A5, and TICAM2 was established. Based on the prognostic model, patients were stratified into either the high-risk or low-risk subgroups with distinct survival. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to identify the predictive accuracy of the model. In relation to different clinical variables, stratification analyses were performed to demonstrate the associations between the expression levels of the six identified NRGs and the clinical variables in CESC. Immunohistochemical (IHC) validation experiments explored abnormal expressions of these six NRGs in CESC. We also explored the relationship between risk score of this necroptosis signature and expression levels of some driver genes in TCGA CESC database and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Significant relationships between the six prognostic NRGs and immune-cell infiltration, chemokines, tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), and immune checkpoints in CESC were discovered. In conclusion, we successfully constructed and validated a novel NRG signature for predicting the prognosis of CC patients and might also play a crucial role in the progression and immune microenvironment in CC.