bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patients’ perspective on prostatic artery embolization: A qualitative study
Authors: Holm Alexander , Lindgren Hans , Bläckberg Mats , Augutis Marika , Jakobsson Peter , Tell Mattias , Wallinder Jonas , Lundström Karl-Johan , Styrke Johan
Published: March 2021

Objectives:

The aim was to describe the patients’ experience of undergoing prostatic artery embolization.

Methods:

A retrospective qualitative interview study was undertaken with 15 patients of mean age 73 years who had undergone prostatic artery embolization with a median duration of 210 min at two medium sized hospitals in Sweden. The reasons for conducting prostatic artery embolization were clean intermittent catheterization (n = 4), lower urinary tract symptoms (n = 10) or haematuria (n = 1). Data were collected through individual, semi-structured telephone interviews 1–12 months after treatment and analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Four categories with sub-categories were formulated to describe the results: a diverse experience; ability to control the situation; resumption of everyday activities and range of opinions regarding efficacy of outcomes. Overall, the patients described the procedure as painless, easy and interesting and reported that while the procedure can be stressful, a calm atmosphere contributed to achieving a good experience. Limitations on access to reliable information before, during and after the procedure were highlighted as a major issue. Practical ideas for improving patient comfort during the procedure were suggested. Improved communications between treatment staff and patients were also highlighted. Most patients could resume everyday activities, some felt tired and bruising caused unnecessary worry for a few. Regarding functional outcome, some patients described substantial improvement in urine flow while others were satisfied with regaining undisturbed night sleep. Those with less effect were considering transurethral resection of the prostate as a future option. Self-enrolment to the treatment and long median operation time may have influenced the results.

Conclusions:

From the patients’ perspective, prostatic artery embolization is a well-tolerated method for treating benign prostate hyperplacia.
B7-H3 and digestive system cancers
Authors: Zhou Liyun , Jiang Zhenhua , Gu Jing , Gu Wenhui , Han Shuangyin
Published: March 2021

Digestive system cancers (DSC) are the most common cancers worldwide and often associated with poor prognosis because of their characteristics of invasive and metastatic. Thus, it is particularly necessary to find novel molecular targets for early diagnosis, as well as targeted treatment of DSC. B7-H3, which was previously referred to as a modulatory ligand that regulate T-cell-mediated immune reaction, is a B7-family member of co-stimulatory biomolecules, and in recent years it was found that its concentration was remarkably up modulated in serum, as well as tissues of DSC patients. Numerous studies have documented that B7-H3 has a vital function in the DSC. Herein, we summarize the current literature on diagnosis and prognosis potential of B7-H3 in DSC including those of the esophagus, gastric, liver, pancreas, and colon.
Home-Based Acculturation and Chinese Attitude Toward Intercultural Marriage: A Cross-Generational Comparison
Authors: Hu Qingqing , Pan Peng , Chen Xiaochun
Published: March 2021

This paper explores factors associated with intergenerational differences in home-based acculturation (HBA) and the attitude of Chinese college students and their parents toward intercultural marriage with a focus on China’s cultural context where parents have a strong influence on child’s decisions. In two related studies, we recruited a total of 749 Chinese college students and parents (387 in Study 1 and 362 in Study 2; all are living in China) to participate in the survey. The results indicate that (a) online intercultural contact is positively associated with HBA; (b) HBA is a strong predictor of attitude of intercultural marriages by Chinese parents and college students and the socioeconomic status has a divergent effect on the two groups; and (c) Chinese college students and parents differ in terms of their HBA and online intercultural contact. Findings from the research add knowledge to our understanding of the impact of globalization and digitalization on acculturation and Chinese residents’ perspectives on intercultural marriage.
A Business Communication Assessment Tool Based on Workplace Assessment Processes and Service-Learning
Authors: Sharma Daneshwar
Published: March 2021

The instructor developed an assessment tool based on Service-Learning (S-L) for developing business and professional communication (BPC) skills in business school students in India ( N = 117). The students practiced their organizational, leadership, and interpersonal communication skills in an authentic, contextual, and workplace atmosphere during this S-L assessment project. The effectiveness of the assessment tool has been studied with a posttest and then pretest. The need for an innovative and holistic BPC skills assessment tool is discussed. The article also presents implications of the project for students and pedagogy along with the challenges in using the assessment project.
Is the National Health Insurance Scheme helping pregnant women in accessing health services? Analysis of the 2014 Ghana demographic and Health survey
Authors: Ameyaw Edward Kwabena , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Baatiema Linus , Seidu Abdul-Aziz
Published: March 2021

Background

Increasing the use of healthcare is a significant step in improving health outcomes in both the short and long term. However, the degree of the relationship between utilization of health services and health outcomes is affected by the quality of the services rendered, the timeliness of treatment and follow-up care. In this study, we investigated whether the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is helping pregnant women in accessing health services in Ghana.

Methods

Data for the study were obtained from the women’s file of the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. All women with birth history and aged 15–49  constituted our sample (n = 4271). We employed binary logistic regression analysis in investigating whether the NHIS was helping pregnant women in accessing health service. Statistical significance was set at <0.05.

Results

Most women had subscribed to the NHIS [67.0%]. Of the subscribed women, 78.2% indicated that the NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing healthcare. Women who had subscribed to the NHIS were more likely to report that it is helping pregnant women in accessing health service [aOR = 1.70, CI = 1.38–2.10]. We further noted that women who had at least four antenatal visits were more likely to indicate that NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing health services [aOR = 3.01, CI = 2.20–4.14]. Women with secondary level of education [aOR= 1.42; CI: 1.04–1.92] and those in the richest wealth quintile [aOR = 3.51; CI = 1.94–6.34] had higher odds of indicating that NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing healthcare. However, women aged 45–49 [aOR = 0.49; CI = 0.26–0.94], women in the Greater Accra [aOR = 0.29; CI = 0.16–0.53], Eastern [aOR = 0.12; CI = 0.07–0.21], Northern [aOR = 0.29; CI = 0.12–0.66] and Upper East [aOR = 0.17; CI = 0.09–0.31] regions had lower odds of reporting that NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing health services.

Conclusion

To enhance positive perception towards the use of health services among pregnant women, non-subscribers need to be encouraged to enrol on the NHIS. Together with non-governmental organizations dedicated to maternal and child health issues, the Ghana Health Service’s Maternal and Child Health Unit could strengthen efforts to educate pregnant women on the importance of NHIS in maternity care.
A nomogram based on combining systemic and hepatic inflammation markers for predicting microscopic bile duct tumour thrombus in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wu Jun-Yi , Sun Ju-Xian , Wu Jia-Yi , Huang Xiao-Xiao , Bai Yan-Nan , Zeng Yong-Yi , Zhang Zhi-Bo , Cheng Shu-Qun , Yan Mao-Lin
Published: March 2021

Background

Bile duct invasion is a relatively rare event and is not well characterised in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It remains very difficult to diagnose HCC with bile duct tumour thrombus (BDTT) before surgery. Increasing evidence has revealed that inflammation plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. This study aimed to develop nomograms based on systemic and hepatic inflammation markers to predict microscopic BDTT (micro-BDTT) before surgery in HCC.

Methods

A total of 723 HCC patients who underwent hepatectomy as initial therapy between January 2012 and June 2020 were included in the study. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for micro-BDTT. The nomograms were constructed using significant predictors, including α-fetoprotein (AFP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), direct bilirubin (DB), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT). The prediction accuracies of the nomograms were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

AFP, ALP, DB, PNI, and γ-GT/ALT were independent risk factors for predicting micro-BDTT (P = 0.036, P = 0.004, P = 0.013, P = 0.012, and P = 0.006, respectively), which were assembled into the nomograms. The area under the ROC curve of the nomograms combining PNI and γ-GT/ALT for predicting micro-BDTT was 0.804 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.730–0.878). The sensitivity and specificity values when used in predicting micro-BDTT before surgery were 0.739 (95% CI: 0.612–0.866) and 0.781 (95% CI: 0.750–0.813), respectively.

Conclusions

The nomogram based on combining systemic and hepatic inflammation markers is suitable for predicting micro-BDTT before surgery in HCC patients, leading to a rational therapeutic choice for HCC.
How body concerns, body mass, self-rated health and self-esteem are mutually impacted in early adolescence: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Meland Eivind , Breidablik Hans Johan , Thuen Frode , Samdal Gro Beate
Published: March 2021

Background

Impaired self-rated health (SRH) and self-esteem (SE) in adolescents are associated with increased body mass index (BMI). These associations are often studied using cross-sectional designs; we performed a longitudinal cohort survey to examine them.

Methods

A longitudinal cohort study of 1225 Norwegian high school students, with SRH, SE and BMI as primary outcomes. We reported the results from temporal causal and residual change analyses separately, with odds ratios (ORs) and standardised regression coefficients (b) and 95% confidence limits.

Results

Body and weight concerns had unfavourable effects on SRH and SE, which both had favourable effects on each other. Increased BMI had unfavourable effects on SRH, but less so on SE. Body and weight concerns impacted SE change only among girls. Paradoxically, the intention of becoming thinner was associated with an increase in BMI, and the intention of becoming fatter predicted a decrease in BMI during the 2 years. SE and SRH were associated with a leaner body after 2 years.

Conclusions

This study confirms that body concerns had unfavourable effects on subjective health, and that positive self-concepts predicted a leaner body. Health promotion strategies built on body acceptance should be increasingly emphasised in clinical and public health practice.
Pentosan polysulfate sodium for Ross River virus-induced arthralgia: a phase 2a, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Krishnan Ravi , Duiker Melanie , Rudd Penny A. , Skerrett Donna , Pollard James G. D. , Siddel Carolyn , Rifat Rifat , Ng Jennifer H. K. , Georgius Peter , Hererro Lara J. , Griffin Paul
Published: March 2021

Background

Alphaviruses, such as Ross River (RRV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV), cause significant global morbidity, with outbreaks of crippling joint inflammation and pain, leaving patients incapacitated for months to years. With no available vaccine or specific therapeutic for any alphaviral disease, and a growing economic and public health burden, there is a serious need for the development of specific therapies.

Methods

This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) in subjects with RRV-induced arthralgia in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Twenty subjects were randomized 2:1 to subcutaneous PPS (2 mg/kg) or placebo (sodium chloride 0.9%) twice weekly for 6 weeks. Safety evaluation included physical examination, concomitant medications, and laboratory findings. Efficacy assessments included change from baseline in joint function (hand grip strength and RAPID3) and quality of life (SF-36) at Days 15, 29, 39 and 81 after treatment initiation. Inflammatory and cartilage degradation biomarkers were exploratory endpoints.

Results

PPS was well tolerated, with a similar proportion of subjects reporting at least one treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE) in the treatment and placebo groups. Injection site reactions were the most common TEAE and occurred more frequently in the PPS group. Dominant hand grip strength and SF-36 scores improved with PPS at all time points assessed, with hand grip strength improvement of 6.99 kg (p = 0.0189) higher than placebo at Day 15. PPS showed significant improvements versus placebo in adjusted mean relative change from baseline for RAPID3 Pain (p = 0.0197) and Total (p = 0.0101) scores at Day 15. At the conclusion of the study overall joint symptoms, assessed by RAPID3, showed near remission in 61.5% of PPS subjects versus 14.3% of placebo subjects. Additionally, PPS treatment improved COMP, CTX-II, CCL1, CXCL12, CXCL16 and CCL17 biomarker levels versus placebo.

Conclusions

Overall, the improvements in strength and joint symptoms warrant further evaluation of PPS as a specific treatment for RRV-induced and other forms of arthritis.

Trial registration

This trial is registered at the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry #ACTRN12617000893303.
The effect of grape products containing polyphenols on oxidative stress: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Sarkhosh-Khorasani Sahar , Sangsefidi Zohreh Sadat , Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh
Published: March 2021

Background

The literature showed that Grape Products Containing Polyphenols (GPCP) had anti-oxidant activity. However, the effects of GPCP on different biomarkers of oxidative stress are still controversial. In this regard, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of Grape Products Containing Polyphenols (GPCP) intake on oxidative stress markers.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar data bases were searched up to August 20, 2020. A random-effects model, weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% confidence interval (CI) were applied for data analysis. Meta-analysis was conducted over 17 eligible RCTs with a total of 633 participants. The study registration number is CRD42019116696.

Results

A significant increase was observed in Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 1.524 mmol/L, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.83, 2.21). Intake of GPCP enhanced Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) (WMD = 0.450 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.66), TAC (WMD = 2.829 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.13, 5.52), and Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) (WMD = 0.524 μmol/L, 95% CI: 0.42, 0.62) among healthy participants. Higher GPCP doses increased SOD (WMD = 0.539 U/mgHb, 95% CI: 0.24, 0.82) and ORAC (WMD = 0.377 μmol/L, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.67), whereas longer intervention periods enhanced ORAC (WMD = 0.543 μmol/L, 95% CI: 0.43, 0.64).

Conclusion

GPCP intake may partly improve status of oxidative stress, but further well-designed trials are required to confirm these results.
Visualizing the drivers of an effective health workforce: a detailed, interactive logic model
Authors: Sonderegger Serena , Bennett Sara , Sriram Veena , Lalani Ummekulsoom , Hariyani Shreya , Roberton Timothy
Published: March 2021

Background

A strong health workforce is a key building block of a well-functioning health system. To achieve health systems goals, policymakers need information on what works to improve and sustain health workforce performance. Most frameworks on health workforce planning and policymaking are high-level and conceptual, and do not provide a structure for synthesizing the growing body of empirical literature on the effectiveness of strategies to strengthen human resources for health (HRH). Our aim is to create a detailed, interactive logic model to map HRH evidence and inform policy development and decision-making.

Methods

We reviewed existing conceptual frameworks and models on health workforce planning and policymaking. We included frameworks that were: (1) visual, (2) comprehensive (not concentrated on specific outcomes or strategies), and (3) designed to support decision-making. We compared and synthesized the frameworks to develop a detailed logic model and interactive evidence visualization tool.

Results

Ten frameworks met our inclusion criteria. The resulting logic model, available at hrhvisualizer.org, allows for visualization of high-level linkages as well as a detailed understanding of the factors that affect health workforce outcomes. HRH data and governance systems interact with the context to affect how human resource policies are formulated and implemented. These policies affect HRH processes and strategies that influence health workforce outcomes and contribute to the overarching health systems goals of clinical quality, responsiveness, efficiency, and coverage. Unlike existing conceptual frameworks, this logic model has been operationalized in a highly visual, interactive platform that can be used to map the research informing policies and illuminating their underlying mechanisms.

Conclusions

The interactive logic model presented in this paper will allow for comprehensive mapping of literature around effective strategies to strengthen HRH. It can aid researchers in communicating with policymakers about the evidence behind policy questions, thus supporting the translation of evidence to policy.
Monocyte platelet aggregates in children with Kawasaki disease- a preliminary study from a tertiary care centre in North-West India
Authors: Vignesh Pandiarajan , Rawat Amit , Shandilya Jitendra Kumar , Singh Sachdeva Man Updesh , Ahluwalia Jasmina , Singh Surjit
Published: March 2021

Background

Platelet activation is an integral part of pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease (KD). However, there is paucity of literature on flow-cytometry based assessment of platelet activation in KD. We aimed to analyse monocyte-platelet aggregates (MPAs), one of the sensitive markers for platelet activation, by flow cytometry in children with KD.

Findings

In this single-centre prospective study, we have enrolled 14 children with KD and results were compared with age-matched febrile (n = 15) and healthy (n = 13) controls. After gating monocytes in side-scatter plot, MPAs were identified based on CD14 and CD41 expression. Two (2) ml of blood samples for children with KD were collected at 3 phases of illness- acute stage before start of intravenous immunoglobulin or aspirin, 24 h after completion of IVIg infusion, and 3 months after acute episode of KD.

Children with KD had a significantly higher MPA% values [Median (IQR)- 41.3% (26.6, 52.7)] when compared with febrile [Median (IQR)- 5.98% (2.98-9.72)] and normal [Median (IQR)- 4.48% (2.57-5.59)] controls, p<0.01. On follow-up, the MPA% showed a gradual decline in children with KD, but even at 3 months, the value [Median (IQR)- 7.55% (4.15-14.6)] was higher compared to healthy controls [Median (IQR)- 4.48% (2.57-5.59)].

Conclusions

Our results suggest that MPA% was significantly elevated in acute stages in children with KD and activated platelets may continue to persist even after systemic inflammation has subsided. Future studies are warranted whether objective evidence of platelet activation may guide the use of immunomodulatory and anti-platelet therapy in KD.
Differences in toe flexor strength and foot morphology between wheelchair dependent and ambulant older people in long‐term care: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yokozuka Mieko , Sato Sei
Published: March 2021

Background

Hallux valgus, lesser toe deformity, and muscle weakness of the toe flexors contribute to falls in older people. This study aimed to examine the differences in toe flexor strength and foot morphology in older people requiring long‐term care due to changes in the way they mobilize in everyday life.

Methods

This study included 84 people aged ≥70 years without motor paralysis who underwent rehabilitation. They were divided into those who could mobilize without a wheelchair (walking group, n = 54) and those who used a wheelchair to mobilize (wheelchair group, n = 30). The presence or absence of diseases was confirmed, and hand grip strength, toe flexor strength, and foot morphology using the foot printer were measured. The presence of diseases, hand grip strength, toe flexor strength, and foot morphology were compared between the two groups. Multiple logistic analysis was performed with wheelchair dependence as the dichotomous outcome variable, and the percentages of each strength measure observed in the wheelchair group to the average hand grip and toe flexor strength measures in the walking group were compared.

Results

No significant between‐group difference in foot morphology was found. The factors related to the differences in ways of ambulating in daily life were history of fracture, heart disease, and toe flexor strength. After comparing the muscle strength of the wheelchair group with the mean values of the walking group, we found that the toe flexor strength was significantly lower than the hand grip strength.

Conclusions

Older people who used a wheelchair to mobilize have significantly less toe flexor strength than those who do not despite no significant difference in foot morphology. Use of a wheelchair is associated with a reduction in toe flexor strength.
Cerebral fat embolism after traumatic bone fractures: a structured literature review and analysis of published case reports
Authors: Vetrugno Luigi , Bignami Elena , Deana Cristian , Bassi Flavio , Vargas Maria , Orsaria Maria , Bagatto Daniele , Intermite Cristina , Meroi Francesco , Saglietti Francesco , Sartori Marco , Orso Daniele , Robiony Massimo , Bove Tiziana
Published: March 2021

Background

The incidence of cerebral fat embolism (CFE) ranges from 0.9–11%, with a mean mortality rate of around 10%. Although no univocal explanation has been identified for the resulting fat embolism syndrome (FES), two hypotheses are widely thought: the ‘mechanical theory’, and the ‘chemical theory’. The present article provides a systematic review of published case reports of FES following a bone fracture.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Web of Science and Scopus to find any article related to FES. Inclusion criteria were: trauma patients; age ≥ 18 years; and the clinical diagnosis of CFE or FES. Studies were excluded if the bone fracture site was not specified.

Results

One hundred and seventy studies were included (268 cases). The male gender was most prominent (81.6% vs. 18.4%). The average age was 33 years (±18). The mean age for males (29 ± 14) was significantly lower than for females (51 ± 26) (p < 0.001). The femur was the most common fracture site (71% of cases). PFO was found in 12% of all cases. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses showed the male gender to be a risk factor for FES: RR 1.87 and 1.41, respectively (95%CI 1.27–2.48, p < 0.001; 95%CI 0.48–2.34, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

FES is most frequent in young men in the third decades of life following multiple leg fractures. FES may be more frequent after a burst fracture. The presence of PFO may be responsible for the acute presentation of cerebral embolisms, whereas FES is mostly delayed by 48–72 h.
Prediction of meat quality traits in the abattoir using portable near-infrared spectrometers: heritability of predicted traits and genetic correlations with laboratory-measured traits
Authors: Savoia Simone , Albera Andrea , Brugiapaglia Alberto , Di Stasio Liliana , Cecchinato Alessio , Bittante Giovanni
Published: March 2021

Background

The possibility of assessing meat quality traits over the meat chain is strongly limited, especially in the context of selective breeding which requires a large number of phenotypes. The main objective of this study was to investigate the suitability of portable infrared spectrometers for phenotyping beef cattle aiming to genetically improving the quality of their meat. Meat quality traits (pH, color, water holding capacity, tenderness) were appraised on rib eye muscle samples of 1,327 Piemontese young bulls using traditional (i.e., reference/gold standard) laboratory analyses; the same traits were also predicted from spectra acquired at the abattoir on the intact muscle surface of the same animals 1 d after slaughtering. Genetic parameters were estimated for both laboratory measures of meat quality traits and their spectra-based predictions.

Results

The prediction performances of the calibration equations, assessed through external validation, were satisfactory for color traits (R2 from 0.52 to 0.80), low for pH and purge losses (R2 around 0.30), and very poor for cooking losses and tenderness (R2 below 0.20). Except for lightness and purge losses, the heritability estimates of most of the predicted traits were lower than those of the measured traits while the genetic correlations between measured and predicted traits were high (average value 0.81).

Conclusions

Results showed that NIRS predictions of color traits, pH, and purge losses could be used as indicator traits for the indirect genetic selection of the reference quality phenotypes. Results for cooking losses were less effective, while the NIR predictions of tenderness were affected by a relatively high uncertainty of estimate. Overall, genetic selection of some meat quality traits, whose direct phenotyping is difficult, can benefit of the application of infrared spectrometers technology.
miR-21: a non‐specific biomarker of all maladies
Authors: Jenike Ana E. , Halushka Marc K.
Published: March 2021

miRNA-21 is among the most abundant and highly conserved microRNAs (miRNAs) recognized. It is expressed in essentially all cells where it performs vital regulatory roles in health and disease. It is also frequently claimed to be a biomarker of diseases such as cancer and heart disease in bodily-fluid based miRNA studies. Here we dissociate its contributions to cellular physiology and pathology from its potential as a biomarker. We show how it has been claimed as a specific predictive or prognostic biomarker by at least 29 diseases. Thus, it has no specificity to any one disease. As a result, it should not be considered a viable candidate to be a biomarker, despite its continued evaluation as such. This theme of multiple assignments of a miRNA as a biomarker is shared with other common, ubiquitous miRNAs and should be concerning for them as well.
Composition and origins of decorated glass from Umayyad Cordoba (Spain)
Authors: De Juan Ares Jorge , Cáceres Gutiérrez Yasmina , Moreno Almenara Maudilio , Schibille Nadine
Published: March 2021

Recent archaeological excavations carried out in the western suburbs of Cordoba (Spain) brought to light numerous fragments of archaeological glass from the caliphal period (929–1031 CE). The typological and compositional analysis by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) of 66 fragments enabled the identification of different types of base glass and glass working techniques, identifying local productions, imports and decorative imitations of eastern models. The studied fragments include Mesopotamian, Levantine, Egyptian and possibly Sicilian soda-rich plant ash glass categories, and various glass-decorating techniques such as mould-blowing, pressing, cutting, staining or gilding. The systematic comparison of the trace element patterns of several relief-cut objects identified both imported ware and a locally manufactured sample, whereas all mould-blown pieces were made from locally sourced raw materials. Iberian glassworkers seem to have preferred mould-blowing, probably because of the distinct working properties of locally available high lead glass. The results thus confirm the continuous long-distance exchange of vitreous material, as well as the existence of multiple glassmaking centres in the Iberian Peninsula, illustrating a link between secondary glass working techniques and chemical composition. Furthermore, the identification of several fragments belonging to the same object based on chemical composition allowed us to reconstruct entire vessels and thereby expand the repertoire of known typologies circulating in Umayyad Spain.
The value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound in determining the location of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer
Authors: Luo Jun , Feng Liting , Zhou Qing , Chen Qin , Liu Jinping , Wu Chihua , Luo Jing , Chen Jie , Wu Hao , Deng Wanyue
Published: March 2021

Background

This study aimed to explore the sentinel lymph node (SLN) identification rate in breast cancer by subcutaneous and intradermal injection of ultrasound contrast agent in the mammary areola region, compared to the results achieved with methylene blue (MB).

Methods

A total of 390 breast cancer patients with planned sentinel lymph node biopsy from our breast surgery department from July 2017 to February 2019 were enrolled. All patients were subjected to preoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), that involved an intracutaneous injection of 1 mL ultrasonic contrast agent (UCA) at 3 and 6 o ‘clock, as well as a subcutaneous injection of 1 mL UCA at 9 and 12 o’clock. The enhanced lymph nodes along the enhanced lymphatic vessels from the mammary areola were traced. The number of enhanced lymph nodes were recorded, and an ultrasound-guided injection of 1:10 diluted carbon nanoparticles were used to mark all first site enhanced lymph nodes (i.e., SLNs). An intraoperative dye method (MB) was used to track the SLNs and the results were compared with the CEUS findings.

Results

Among the 390 cases of breast cancer, enhanced SLNs were observed in 373 patients after an injection of UCA with an identification rate of 95.64 % (373/390), compared to the identification rate of 92.05 % (359/390) using the intraoperative MB. The difference between the two methods was statistically significant (P = 0.016). And among the 390 patients, a total of 808 enhanced lymph nodes were traced by preoperative CEUS, with a median of 2 (1,3). A total of 971 blue-stained lymph nodes were traced using the intraoperative MB, with a median of 2 (2,3), indicating a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Intradermal and subcutaneous injections of UCA in the mammary areola region may have clinical application value for the identification and localization of SLNs in breast cancer patients. The identification rate is higher than that of blue dye method, which can be used as a new tracer of sentinel lymph node biopsy and complement other staining methods to improve the success rate.
Deciphering the functional role of EGR1 in Prostaglandin F2 alpha induced luteal regression applying CRISPR in corpus luteum of buffalo
Authors: Punetha Meeti , Kumar Sai , Paul Avishek , Jose Bosco , Bharati Jaya , Sonwane Arvind , Green Jonathan A. , Whitworth Kristin , Sarkar Mihir
Published: March 2021

Background

PGF2α is essential for the induction of the corpus luteum regression which in turn reduces progesterone production. Early growth response (EGR) proteins are Cys2-His2-type zinc-finger transcription factor that are strongly linked to cellular proliferation, survival and apoptosis. Rapid elevation of EGR1 was observed after luteolytic dose of PGF2α. EGR1 is involved in the transactivation of many genes, including TGFβ1, which plays an important role during luteal regression.

Methods

The current study was conducted in buffalo luteal cells with the aim to better understand the role of EGR1 in transactivation of TGFβ1 during PGF2α induced luteal regression. Luteal cells from mid stage corpus luteum of buffalo were cultured and treated with different doses of PGF2α for different time durations. Relative expression of mRNAs encoding for enzymes within the progesterone biosynthetic pathway (3βHSD, CYP11A1 and StAR); Caspase 3; AKT were analyzed to confirm the occurrence of luteolytic event. To determine if EGR1 is involved in the PGF2α induced luteal regression via induction of TGFβ1 expression, we knocked out the EGR1 gene by using CRISPR/Cas9.

Result

The present experiment determined whether EGR1 protein expression in luteal cells was responsive to PGF2α treatment. Quantification of EGR1 and TGFβ1 mRNA showed significant up regulation in luteal cells of buffalo at 12 h post PGF2α induction. In order to validate the role of PGF2α on stimulating the expression of TGFβ1 by an EGR1 dependent mechanism we knocked out EGR1. The EGR1 ablated luteal cells were stimulated with PGF2α and it was observed that EGR1 KO did not modulate the PGF2α induced expression of TGFβ1. In PGF2α treated EGR1 KO luteal cell, the mRNA expression of Caspase 3 was significantly increased compared to PGF2α treated wild type luteal cells maintained for 12 h. We also studied the influence of EGR1 on steroidogenesis. The EGR1 KO luteal cells with PGF2α treatment showed no substantial difference either in the progesterone concentration or in StAR mRNA expression with PGF2α-treated wild type luteal cells.

Conclusion

These results suggest that EGR1 signaling is not the only factor which plays a role in the regulation of PGF2α induced TGFβ1 signaling for luteolysis.
Immunotherapy Management in Special Cancer Patient Populations
Authors: Ramnaraign Brian H. , Chatzkel Jonathan A. , Al-Mansour Zeina A. , Rogers Sherise , Jones Dennie , DeRemer David , George Thomas J.
Published: March 2021

Patients with autoimmune disorders, multiple comorbidities, poor performance status, advanced age, and infection with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) each represent unique subgroups of patients with cancer to whom little is known of the effects, benefits, and complications of checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) therapy. Although prospective trials are lacking in these populations, retrospective data and cohort series suggest that these patients can safely receive and benefit from CPI therapy. Here, we review the relevant data available and offer clinical recommendations in managing these complex patients with CPI therapy, where otherwise indicated.
Severe Acute Lung Injury After H2O2 Irrigation of an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in an 8-Year-Old Girl: A Case Report
Authors: Waldvogel Salome , Zutter Andreas , Krieg Andreas H. , Trachsel Daniel
Published: March 2021

An 8-year-old girl developed severe acute lung injury after irrigation of a pelvic aneurysmal bone cyst with H2O2 and filling with bone cement. Sudden profound oxygen desaturation occurred on the operating table when the patient was turned from the prone to the supine position. After a brief improvement in her oxygenation, the girl developed rapidly progressing severe respiratory failure necessitating reintubation and hour-long manual ventilation, while copious amounts of hemorrhagic frothy fluids were aspirated through the endotracheal tube. The patient started to improve after 24 hours and eventually made a full recovery. We hypothesize that the incident was caused by gas embolization and pulmonary endothelial damage by H2O2.
Natural killer cell immune synapse formation and cytotoxicity are controlled by tension of the target interface
Authors: Friedman Daniel , Simmonds Poppy , Hale Alexander , Bere Leoma , Hodson Nigel W. , White Michael R. H. , Davis Daniel M.
Published: March 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells can kill infected or transformed cells via a lytic immune synapse. Diseased cells may exhibit altered mechanical properties but how this impacts NK cell responsiveness is unknown. We report that human NK cells were stimulated more effectively to secrete granzymes A and B, FasL (also known as FasLG), granulysin and IFNγ, by stiff (142 kPa) compared to soft (1 kPa) planar substrates. To create surrogate spherical targets of defined stiffness, sodium alginate was used to synthesise soft (9 kPa), medium (34 kPa) or stiff (254 kPa) cell-sized beads, coated with antibodies against activating receptor NKp30 (also known as NCR3) and the integrin LFA-1 (also known as ITGAL). Against stiff beads, NK cells showed increased degranulation. Polarisation of the microtubule-organising centre and lytic granules were impaired against soft targets, which instead resulted in the formation of unstable kinapses. Thus, by varying target stiffness to characterise the mechanosensitivity of immune synapses, we identify soft targets as a blind spot in NK cell recognition.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the co-first authors of the paper.
The Dance Functional Outcome Survey (DFOS) is Reliable, Valid, and Responsive in Pediatric Dancers
Authors: Smith Teresa , Filipa Alyson , Riveron Samantha , Strzelinski Melissa , Paterno Mark , Bronner Shaw
Published: March 2021

The Dance Functional Outcome Survey (DFOS) is a dance-specific questionnaire developed for use with ballet and modern dancers at all training levels. To date, no study has assessed the psychometric properties of the DFOS in pediatric dancers. The purposes of this study were to determine:
1. the reliability of the DFOS when used with healthy and injured pediatric dancers; 2. the validity of the DFOS com- pared to a well-established generic scale, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Physical Function Scale (PedsQL-PFS); and 3. the sensitivity and responsiveness to change
of the DFOS in injured dancers. One hundred and two dancers completed the DFOS twice within 10 days. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to assess test-retest reliability. In a sample of 148 dancers, construct validity was explored by comparing the DFOS to the PedsQL-PFS
using Pearson correlations, and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Cronbach's alpha were used for internal consistency analyses. A sub-set of 22 injured dancers was employed to examine responsiveness using repeated measures analysis of variance (p < 0.05). The DFOS demonstrated high
test-retest reliability (ICC ≥ 0.90). The DFOS total score, activities of daily living (ADL), and dance technique sub-scores had strong construct validity compared to the PedsQL-PFS (r ≥ 0.79). Cronbach's alpha was high ( α = 0.92), indicating excellent internal consistency. There
were significant differences across time in DFOS scores (p < 0.001), demonstrating responsiveness to change. There were no floor or ceiling effects. Thus, the DFOS demonstrates excellent reliability, strong validity, and good responsiveness over time and is a viable tool for assessing function
in pediatric dancers.
Use of routinely collected data in a UK cohort of publicly funded randomised clinical trials
Authors: McKay Andrew J. , Jones Ashley P. , Gamble Carrol L. , Farmer Andrew J. , Williamson Paula R.
Published: March 2021

Routinely collected data about health in medical records, registries and hospital activity statistics is now routinely collected in an electronic form. The extent to which such sources of data are now being routinely accessed to deliver efficient clinical trials, is unclear. The aim of this study was to ascertain current practice amongst a United Kingdom (UK) cohort of recently funded and ongoing randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in relation to sources and use of routinely collected outcome data.

Recently funded and ongoing RCTs were identified for inclusion by searching the National Institute for Health Research journals library. Trials that have a protocol available were assessed for inclusion and those that use or plan to use routinely collected health data (RCHD) for at least one outcome were included. RCHD sources and outcome information were extracted.

Of 216 RCTs, 102 (47%) planned to use RCHD. A RCHD source was the sole source of outcome data for at least one outcome in 46 (45%) of those 102 trials. The most frequent sources are Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) and Office for National Statistics (ONS), with the most common outcome data to be extracted being on mortality, hospital admission, and health service resource use.

Our study has found that around half of publicly funded trials in a UK cohort (NIHR HTA funded trials that had a protocol available) plan to collect outcome data from routinely collected data sources.
Use of social media in the marketing of agricultural products and farmers’ turnover in South-South Nigeria
Authors: Inegbedion Henry , Inegbedion Emmanuel , Asaleye Abiola , Obadiaru Eseosa , Asamu Festus
Published: March 2021

Background: The study investigated the use of social media in the marketing of agricultural products and farmers turnover in South-South Nigeria. The purpose of the study was to determine the extent to which the usage of social media in the marketing of agricultural products in Nigeria can enhance efficiency and farmers’ sales turnover.

Methods: It employed the survey research design and data were collected with the help of a structured questionnaire. Research data were analysed using a t-test and least squares method. 

Results:  The use of social media (WhatsApp and Instagram) in the marketing of agricultural products was found to enhance efficiency and turnover of farmers through a significant reduction in the cost of marketing agricultural products as well as increased demand for agricultural products.

Conclusions: The use of social media (WhatsApp and Instagram) in the marketing of agricultural products significantly influences cost reduction and hence efficiency in marketing as well as enhances turnover of farmers through increased demand for agricultural products.

Contribution: The examination of the implications of the usage of social media usage in agricultural marketing on marketing efficiency and sales turnover in Nigeria
The diagnostic yield of whole exome sequencing as a first approach in consanguineous Omani renal ciliopathy syndrome patients
Authors: Al Alawi Intisar , Al Riyami Mohammed , Barroso-Gil Miguel , Powell Laura , Olinger Eric , Al Salmi Issa , Sayer John A.
Published: March 2021

Background: Whole exome sequencing (WES) is becoming part of routine clinical and diagnostic practice. In the investigation of inherited cystic kidney disease and renal ciliopathy syndromes, WES has been extensively applied in research studies as well as for diagnostic utility to detect various novel genes and variants. The yield of WES critically depends on the characteristics of the patient population.

Methods: In this study, we selected 8 unrelated Omani children, presenting with renal ciliopathy syndromes with a positive family history and originating from consanguineous families. We performed WES in affected children to determine the genetic cause of disease and to test the yield of this approach, coupled with homozygosity mapping, in this highly selected population.

DNA library construction and WES was carried out using SureSelect Human All Exon V6 Enrichment Kit and Illumina HiSeq platform. For variants filtering and annotation Qiagen Variant Ingenuity tool was used. Nexus copy number software from BioDiscovery was used for evaluation of copy number variants and whole gene deletions. Patient and parental DNA was used to confirm mutations and the segregation of alleles using Sanger sequencing.

Results: Genetic analysis identified 4 potential causative homozygous variants each confirmed by Sanger sequencing in 4 clinically relevant ciliopathy syndrome genes, (TMEM231, TMEM138, WDR19 and BBS9), leading to an overall diagnostic yield of 50%.

Conclusions: WES coupled with homozygosity mapping provided a diagnostic yield of 50% in this selected population. This genetic approach needs to be embedded into clinical practise to allow confirmation of clinical diagnosis, to inform genetic screening as well as family planning decisions. Half of the patients remain without diagnosis highlighting the technical and interpretational hurdles that need to be overcome in the future.
Wespół w zespół
Authors: Łapiński Paweł
Published: March 2021

Teaming up. The Contribution of Human Factor to the French Success of Zygmunt Miłoszewski

The article is based on the assumptions of Translator Studies raised by Andrew Chesterman, who proposed translation researchers to put morefocus on the author of translation [2009: 20]. This perspective is further enriched with the concept of the “manufacture” of translation, in which translation is perceived as a multi-stage and collective process including several agents [Buzelin 2007: 141]. The starting point for the case study presented in the article is the unprecedented popularity won by four Zygmunt Miłoszewski’s novels translated into French and published in the years 2013-2017. The assumed reason of this success lies in the exceptionally favourable configuration ofthe human factor, which consists primarily of the activity of the translator of all the novels, Kamil Barbarski, but also actions undertaken by the French publisher or, finally, the author himself. The article attempts to reconstruct this process in chronological order, taking into account the contribution of each of the above-mentioned subjects to the final effect, which is not only the recognition of Miłoszewski himself, but also the broadly defined promotion of Polish literature in France.
A Restless Bandit Model for Resource Allocation, Competition, and Reservation
Authors: Fu Jing , Moran Bill , Taylor Peter G.
Published: March 2021

In “A Restless Bandit Model for Resource Allocation, Competition and Reservation,” J. Fu, B. Moran, and P. G. Taylor study a resource allocation problem with varying requests and with resources of limited capacity shared by multiple requests. This problem is modeled as a set of heterogeneous restless multi-armed bandit problems (RMABPs) connected by constraints imposed by resource capacity. Following Whittle’s idea of relaxing the constraints and Weber and Weiss’s proof of asymptotic optimality, the authors propose an index policy and establish conditions for it to be asymptotically optimal in a regime where both arrival rates and capacities increase. In particular, they provide a simple sufficient condition for asymptotic optimality of the policy and, in complete generality, propose a method that generates a set of candidate policies for which asymptotic optimality can be checked. Via numerical experiments, they demonstrate the effectiveness of these results even in the pre-limit case.