bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-reported health-related experiences, psychological capital, and psychological wellbeing in Lithuanian adults sample
Authors: Diržytė Aistė , Perminas Aidas
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this research was to examine psychological wellbeing and psychological capital in groups of subjectively healthy and unhealthy individuals and identify significant associations. We have analyzed the results of a Lithuanian representative sample of adults ( n = 1001). Results showed that adult respondents who reported the absence of cardiovascular diseases, nervous system diseases, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, vision disorders, physical or mental disability, and substance abuse demonstrated significantly higher scores for flourishing, life satisfaction, psychological capital, self-efficacy, hope, and resilience. The model on associations between the number of reported diseases, psychological capital, and wellbeing in the representative sample of adults (χ2 = 110.786, df = 16; CFI = .981; RMSEA = .077; NFI = 0.978; TLI = 0.968) indicated that a higher number of diseases (per person) predicts a weakening effect on psychological capital, while psychological capital predicts psychological wellbeing.
Successful resolution of urothorax secondary to non-traumatic uroabdomen in a cat managed with peritoneal dialysis as a bridge to surgery
Authors: Donati Pablo , Londoño Leonel A , Fravega Rodrigo , Guevara Juan M
Published: February 2021

Case summary

A 9-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was presented for evaluation of severe hemodynamic collapse and suspected lower urinary tract disease. On admission, severe metabolic acidosis, hyperkalemia and azotemia, and electrocardiographic findings consistent with cardiotoxicity were identified. The diagnosis of uroabdomen was made based on abdominal fluid to plasma concentration ratios of creatinine and potassium. A central line catheter was placed percutaneously into the abdomen for peritoneal drainage and used for peritoneal dialysis as a bridge to surgery. Retrograde contrast cystography confirmed rupture of the urinary bladder. Point-of-care ultrasound of the chest postoperatively revealed the presence of mild pleural effusion. Echocardiography was then performed showing no evidence of cardiac disease. Pleural fluid analysis revealed a transudate with a creatinine ratio of 2.38 ([Creatinine]pleural fluid/[Creatinine]plasma), consistent with the diagnosis of urothorax. The cat recovered uneventfully from surgery and was monitored for signs of respiratory distress during the rest of its stay in hospital. The cat was discharged 4 days later and the pleural effusion resolved without further medical intervention.

Relevance and novel information

There is limited information on the causes of urothorax and uroabdomen management of feline patients. Pleural effusion is a complication observed in critically ill cats secondary to fluid overload, underlying cardiomyopathy, primary thoracic pathology or a combination of these. To our knowledge, this is the first report of urothorax in a cat secondary to non-traumatic uroabdomen. Careful monitoring of respiratory signs consistent with pleural space disease is recommended in cases of uroabdomen.
Multilevel Linking Service Innovation, Service Sweethearting, and Brand Association: The Moderating Role of Sustainable Human Resource Management
Authors: Lee Meng-Hsiu , Wang Chan , Wu Tzu-Jung , Yen Ming-Yu
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the effects of incremental service innovation on customer brand association and further explored the multilevel mediating and moderating variables underlying this link. Multilevel analyses of the data were conducted using 374 valid questionnaires from employee–customer paired samples in 68 hospitality companies in China. The research results showed that incremental service innovation (supervisor-reported) explained significant variance in customer brand association (customer-reported). The service sweethearting (employee-reported) fully mediated the relationship between incremental service innovation and brand association. Furthermore, sustainable human resource management (supervisor-reported) positively moderated the relationship between incremental service innovation and brand association. This study originally represents a unique contribution to combine the individual and organizational perspectives of service innovation and further confirms the multilevel-moderating effect of sustainable human resource management that enhances the relationship between service sweethearting and customer brand association. Managerial implications and future research suggestions are presented.
The Link Between a Mentorship Programme for Mathematics, Science, and Technology In-Service Teachers and Professional Development
Authors: Sibanda Doras , Amin Nyna
Published: February 2021

This study explores the link between a mentorship program for in-service teachers and their professional development. The participants are under-qualified mathematics, science, and technology teachers employed in junior secondary schools. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through a questionnaire responded to by 163 mentees, and semi-structured interviews with 4 in-service teachers. Despite tensions between mentors and mentees, the results show a strong link between mentoring and the professional development of in-service teachers. The majority of the sampled teachers learnt new teaching approaches and improved their content knowledge. The findings are emergent, suggesting that experienced in-service teachers require different models of mentoring relationships between mentors and mentees to those suggested in the literature.
Understanding the Antecedents and Consequences of Green Human Capital
Authors: Ma Yin , Chen Shih-Chih , Ruangkanjanases Athapol
Published: February 2021

Green human capital (GHC) is regarded as one of the primary attributes individuals need to develop in the era of environmental degradation. Many existing studies indicate that it is probably an important indicator of employees’ satisfaction in the workplace. Thus, based on trait theory and ability–motivation–opportunity theory, the current study examines the antecedents and outcomes of GHC among 630 employees from the manufacturing and service companies in Guangdong Province. The research employs Big Five personality and green training as the predictors of GHC, and job satisfaction as the outcome variable. Partial least squares structural equation modeling is used to analyze the data. The findings show that, in Big Five personality domains, only agreeableness and openness have a positive as well as significant impact on the individuals’ GHC, and that green training also has a positive influence on the GHC. GHC has a positive impact on the employees’ job satisfaction. The research findings and managerial implications are then discussed in detail.
Nursing Technologies Creativity as an Expression of Caring: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Bahari Kissa , Talosig Anunciacion T. , Pizarro Jesus B.
Published: February 2021

Caring expression in nursing is rapidly changing to include the use of sophisticated healthcare technologies. Unfortunately, few nurses participate in developing healthcare technologies. The current study aimed to generate a theory of nursing grounded in the phenomenon of nursing technologies creativity in nursing practice. The study design used a constructivist grounded theory. Sixteen Indonesian nurses selected by purposive sampling were interviewed in-depth. Data analysis used constant comparative analysis through Charmaz’s coding process. This study generated two core conceptual categories that included technological creativity and drivers for technological development. Five theoretical statements were developed leading to the Technological Creativity as Caring in Nursing Theory. This theory is a middle-range theory that focuses on technological creativity to express caring for patients, nurses, and management in nursing practice.
A Study of Leisure Walking Intensity Levels on Mental Health and Health Perception of Older Adults
Authors: Han Areum , Kim Junhyoung , Kim Jaehyun
Published: February 2021

Research suggests that different levels of intensity of leisure walking can affect the mental health of older adults. Unfortunately, insufficient evidence exists as to the recommended intensity levels of leisure walking for their health benefits. The purpose of this study was to investigate how leisure walking intensity levels are associated with the mental health and health perceptions of older adults. Using a purposive sampling method, the data of 4,737 adults over the age of 65 were drawn from the 2017 California Health and Interview Survey. The results of analysis of these data showed that older adults who engaged in moderate and vigorous leisure walking reported higher health perceptions than those involved in light leisure walking. In addition, older adults who participated in moderate leisure walking reported higher mental health than those who engaged in light leisure walking. This study suggests that moderate and/or vigorous leisure walking can increase the mental health and health perceptions of older adults.
A Key to Transforming a Nursing Curriculum: Integrating a Continuous Improvement Simulation Expansion Strategy
Authors: Aul Karen , Bagnall Lisa , Bumbach Michael D. , Gannon Jane , Shipman Sallie , McDaniel Anna , Keenan Gail
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Changes in nursing, health care, and education warrant continued pedagogical innovations. Faculty are challenged to develop many innovative strategies in the clinical and simulation laboratory setting. Intentional simulation-based learning experiences are one method to prepare new graduates for nursing practice.

Methods

One college integrated intentional simulation-based learning experiences as an improvement strategy in a newly transformed undergraduate nursing curriculum, from mapping through evaluation and revision. Simulation-based learning experiences that were intentionally mapped, organized, and interactive enhanced the teaching and learning needs of students and faculty.

Conclusion

The positive outcomes from this curricular transformation serve as a platform for continuous improvement for future approaches to nursing education. This affirmed that the key to transforming a nursing curriculum encompasses intentional mapping, evaluation, and revision.
Evaluation of the optic nerve head vessel density in patients with limited scleroderma
Authors: Kılınç Hekimsoy Hilal , Şekeroğlu Mehmet Ali , Koçer Ali Mert , Hekimsoy Vedat , Akdoğan Ali
Published: February 2021

Objectives:

To investigate the optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) parameters of the optic nerve head and peripapillary retina and to assess macular and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness by using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in patients with limited scleroderma and to compare these results with those of healthy control subjects.

Materials and Methods:

42 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of limited scleroderma and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects were included in the study. OCTA was performed for the radial peripapillary capillary plexus (RPCP) whole image, inside disc, and peripapillary vessel densities in all participants with XR Avanti AngioVue OCTA (Optovue, Fremont, California, USA). OCT images were obtained with Spectralis OCT with eye-tracking dual-beam technology (Heidelberg Engineering GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany), and peripapillary RNFL thickness was evaluated with circle program. The data from the right eyes of all participants were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

No significant difference was found between the radial RPCP whole image, inside disc, and peripapillary vessel density values or the RNFL parameters of the scleroderma patients when compared with the controls ( p > 0.05 for all).

Conclusion:

Decreased peripapillary vessel density on OCTA, which can be an early sign of glaucoma, could not be observed in scleroderma patients in this study. However, further long-term studies are still needed to identify glaucoma tendency in patients with scleroderma before clinically detectable glaucoma.
Quantitative Antithrombin Deficiency Manifesting as Cerebral Sinus Thrombosis in a Patient With a Family History of Clinically Variable Venous Thromboembolic Events: A Case Report
Authors: Sinani Ahmed Al , Hashmi Amal M. Al , Aaron Sanjith , Lukas Jospaul , Zaabi Mohammed Al
Published: February 2021

Antithrombin (AT III) is a potent inactivator of thrombin and factor Xa and plays a major role in the inhibition of coagulation. Inherited deficiencies of AT III are rare and pose a risk of developing venous thromboembolic disease. They can be subdivided into type I (quantitative) or type II (qualitative). Mild AT III deficiency is associated with a 2.4- to 3.5-fold risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Thrombosis in patients with AT III deficiency predominantly manifests as a deep vein thrombosis and may subsequently present as pulmonary embolism. It can also occur in uncommon sites such as cerebral, retinal, mesenteric, portal, hepatic, and splenic veins. We report a case of an unprovoked cerebral venous thrombosis in a 24-year-old Omani male, without any comorbidity, who was found to have quantitative deficiency of AT III. He has a significant history of family members having VTE in varying venous beds. This case highlights the wide spectrum of clinical manifestations of quantitative deficiency of AT III and stresses on the importance of taking a good family history and the need for testing for inherited thrombophilia since it can alter long-term management.
Prostate-specific antigen increase after urethral catheterisation: fact or myth
Authors: Anand Ajay , Gupta Sonam
Published: February 2021

Background

To find out any association of urethral catheterisation with rise in serum PSA.

Methods

This study was conducted in 80 patients of BPH who had to undergo catheterisation because of acute urinary retention. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 43 patients), age group 40–60 years, and Group B (n = 47 patients), age group 60–75 years. Values of PSA, free/total PSA and PSA density were recorded in both age groups before catheterisation and one and three days after catheterisation.

Results

PSA, PSA density and free/total PSA were not statistically different before and after urethral catheterisation.

Conclusions

In the absence of urinary tract infection, urethral catheterisation does not elevate serum PSA. PSA, PSA density and free/total PSA were not statistically different before and after urethral catheterisation.
Diversity and plant growth-promoting potential of (un)culturable bacteria in the Hedera helix phylloplane
Authors: Stevens Vincent , Thijs Sofie , Vangronsveld Jaco
Published: February 2021

Background

A diverse community of microbes naturally exists on the phylloplane, the surface of leaves. It is one of the most prevalent microbial habitats on earth and bacteria are the most abundant members, living in communities that are highly dynamic. Today, one of the key challenges for microbiologists is to develop strategies to culture the vast diversity of microorganisms that have been detected in metagenomic surveys.

Results

We isolated bacteria from the phylloplane ofHedera helix(common ivy), a widespread evergreen, using five growth media: Luria–Bertani (LB), LB01, yeast extract–mannitol (YMA), yeast extract–flour (YFlour), and YEx. We also included a comparison with the uncultured phylloplane, which we showed to be dominated by Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. Inter-sample (beta) diversity shifted from LB and LB01 containing the highest amount of resources to YEx, YMA, and YFlour which are more selective. All growth media equally favoured Actinobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria, whereas Bacteroidetes could only be found on LB01, YEx, and YMA. LB and LB01 favoured Firmicutes and YFlour was most selective for Betaproteobacteria. At the genus level, LB favoured the growth ofBacillusandStenotrophomonas, while YFlour was most selective forBurkholderiaandCurtobacterium. The in vitro plant growth promotion (PGP) profile of 200 isolates obtained in this study indicates that previously uncultured bacteria from the phylloplane may have potential applications in phytoremediation and other plant-based biotechnologies.

Conclusions

This study gives first insights into the total bacterial community of theH. helixphylloplane, including an evaluation of its culturability using five different growth media. We further provide a collection of 200 bacterial isolates underrepresented in current databases, including the characterization of PGP profiles. Here we highlight the potential of simple strategies to obtain higher microbial diversity from environmental samples and the use of high-throughput sequencing to guide isolate selection from a variety of growth media.
Complete genome sequencing of Peyer’s patches-derived Lactobacillus taiwanensis CLG01, a potential probiotic with antibacterial and immunomodulatory activity
Authors: Li Xiao-yu , Li Li-xiang , Li Yan , Zhou Ru-chen , Li Bing , Gu Xiang , Fu Shi-chen , Jin Bi-ying , Zuo Xiu-li , Li Yan-qing
Published: February 2021

Background

The genus Lactobacillus is an important component of the gastrointestinal tract of human and animals and commonly considered as probiotic. L. taiwanensis has long been proposed to be a probiotic whereas understanding on this species is still in its infancy. Genomic information of L. taiwanensis is fairly limited. Extensive characterization of its beneficial traits is needed.

Results

A new strain CLG01 of L. taiwanensis was isolated from mouse Peyer’s patches. We established its probiotic profile through in vitro experiments. Complete genome of this strain was also sequenced and analyzed. L. taiwanensis CLG01 showed robust tolerance to acid and a degree of tolerance to bile salt with a promising antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of pathogenic bacteria. In vitro treatment of mouse RAW 264.7 macrophage cells with heat-killed bacteria and bacterial supernatant of L. taiwanensis CLG01 resulted in enhancement of immune responses and upregulated expression of TNF-α and IL-6. The strain CLG01 also increased the IL-10 production of macrophages when co-treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Complete genome of L. taiwanensis CLG01 contained a 1.89 Mb chromosome and two plasmids. Further genomic analysis revealed the presence of genes related to its resistance to different stresses and the beneficial effects mentioned above. Moreover, biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) encoding antimicrobial peptides, like bacteriocin, linear azol(in)e-containing peptide (LAP) and lanthipeptide, were also identified in the genome of L. taiwanensis CLG01.

Conclusions

L. taiwanensis CLG01, isolated from mouse Peyer’s patches, is the first L. taiwanensis strain with both phenotypes and genotypes systematically studied. These preliminary data confirmed the role of L. taiwanensis CLG01 as a potential probiotic candidate with antibacterial and immunomodulatory activity, which provide insight for further investigation to this species.
Sex differences in neural responses to reward and the influences of individual reward and punishment sensitivity
Authors: Dhingra Isha , Zhang Sheng , Zhornitsky Simon , Wang Wuyi , Le Thang M. , Li Chiang-Shan R.
Published: February 2021

Background

Men and women show differences in sensitivity to reward and punishment, which may impact behavior in health and disease. However, the neural bases of these sex differences remain under-investigated. Here, by combining functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a variant of the Monetary Incentive Delay Task (MIDT), we examined sex differences in the neural responses to wins and losses and how individual reward and punishment sensitivity modulates these regional activities.

Methods

Thirty-sex men and 27 women participated in the fMRI study. We assessed sensitivity to punishment (SP) and sensitivity to reward (SR) with the Sensitivity to Punishment and Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire (SPSRQ). In the MIDT, participants pressed a button to collect reward ($1, 1¢, or nil), with the reaction time window titrated across trials so participants achieved a success rate of approximately 67%. We processed the Imaging data with published routines and evaluated the results with a corrected threshold.

Results

Women showed higher SP score than men and men showed higher SR score than women. Men relative to women showed higher response to the receipt of dollar or cent reward in bilateral orbitofrontal and visual cortex. Men as compared to women also showed higher response to dollar loss in bilateral orbitofrontal cortex. Further, in whole-brain regressions, women relative to men demonstrated more significant modulation by SP in the neural responses to wins and larger wins, and the sex differences were confirmed by slope tests.

Conclusions

Together, men showed higher SR and neural sensitivity to both wins, large or small, and losses than women. Individual differences in SP were associated with diminished neural responses to wins and larger wins in women only. These findings highlight how men and women may differ in reward-related brain activations in the MIDT and add to the imaging literature of sex differences in cognitive and affective functions.
Homeostatic sleep regulation in the absence of the circadian sleep‐regulating component: effect of short light–dark cycles on sleep–wake stages and slow waves
Authors: Szalontai Örs , Tóth Attila , Pethő Máté , Keserű Dóra , Hajnik Tünde , Détári László
Published: February 2021

Background

Aside from the homeostatic and circadian components, light has itself an important, direct as well as indirect role in sleep regulation. Light exerts indirect sleep effect by modulating the circadian rhythms. Exposure to short light-dark cycle (LD 1:1, 1:1 h light - dark) eliminates the circadian sleep regulatory component but direct sleep effect of light could prevail. The aim of the present study was to examine the interaction between the light and the homeostatic influences regarding sleep regulation in a rat model.

Methods

Spontaneous sleep–wake and homeostatic sleep regulation by sleep deprivation (SD) and analysis of slow waves (SW) were examined in Wistar rats exposed to LD1:1 condition using LD12:12 regime as control.

Results

Slow wave sleep (SWS) and REM sleep were both enhanced, while wakefulness (W) was attenuated in LD1:1. SWS recovery after 6-h total SD was more intense in LD1:1 compared to LD12:12 and SWS compensation was augmented in the bright hours. Delta power increment during recovery was caused by the increase of SW number in both cases. More SW was seen during baseline in the second half of the day in LD1:1 and after SD compared to the LD12:12. Increase of SW number was greater in the bright hours compared to the dark ones after SD in LD1:1. Lights ON evoked immediate increase in W and decrease in both SWS and REM sleep during baseline LD1:1 condition, while these changes ceased after SD. Moreover, the initial decrease seen in SWS after lights ON, turned to an increase in the next 6-min bin and this increase was stronger after SD. These alterations were caused by the change of the epoch number in W, but not in case of SWS or REM sleep. Lights OFF did not alter sleep–wake times immediately, except W, which was increased by lights OFF after SD.

Conclusions

Present results show the complex interaction between light and homeostatic sleep regulation in the absence of the circadian component and indicate the decoupling of SW from the homeostatic sleep drive in LD1:1 lighting condition.
Putrescine-functionalized carbon quantum dot (put-CQD) nanoparticles effectively prime grapevine (Vitis vinifera cv. ‘Sultana’) against salt stress
Authors: Gohari Gholamreza , Panahirad Sima , Sadeghi Mostafa , Akbari Ali , Zareei Elnaz , Zahedi Seyed Morteza , Bahrami Mohammad Kazem , Fotopoulos Vasileios
Published: February 2021

Background

Salinity is an important global problem with destructive impacts on plants leading to different biochemical and metabolic changes in plants through induced oxidative stress that disturbs metabolism, growth, performance and productivity of plants. Given that putrescine (Put) and carbon quantum dots (CQDs), individually, have promising effects in different plant processes, the idea of their combination in a nano-structure “Put-CQD” lead to its synthesis to evaluate the potential exertion of synergistic effects. The current study aimed to investigate the application of newly-synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) consisting of CQDs and Put in grapevine (Vitis viniferacv. ‘Sultana’) under salinity stress conditions. For this purpose, Put, CQDs and Put-CQD NPs at 5 and 10 mg L− 1concentrations were applied as chemical priming agents in ‘Sultana’ grapevine 48 h prior salinity stress imposition (0 and 100 mM NaCl).

Results

Salinity significantly decreased (P ≤ 0.05) morphological parameters, photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and membrane stability index. In addition, salinity enhanced MDA, H2O2, proline content and antioxidant enzyme activity. Results revealed that Put-CQD NPs, particularly at 10 mg L− 1concentration, alleviated the destructive impacts of salinity stress by improving leaf fresh and dry weights, K+content, photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll fluorescence and SPAD parameters, proline content, total phenolics and antioxidant enzymatic activities (CAT, APX, GP and SOD), while decreasing Na+content, EL, MDA and H2O2levels.

Conclusion

To conclude, Put-CQD NPs represent an innovative priming treatment that could be effectively applied on grapevine to improve plant performance under salinity stress conditions.
A multicenter analysis of the clinical microbiology and antimicrobial usage in hospitalized patients in the US with or without COVID-19
Authors: Puzniak Laura , Finelli Lyn , Yu Kalvin C. , Bauer Karri A. , Moise Pamela , De Anda Carisa , Vankeepuram Latha , Sepassi Aryana , Gupta Vikas
Published: February 2021

Background

Past respiratory viral epidemics suggest that bacterial infections impact clinical outcomes. There is minimal information on potential co-pathogens in patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) in the US. We analyzed pathogens, antimicrobial use, and healthcare utilization in hospitalized US patients with and without severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Methods

This multicenter retrospective study included patients with > 1 day of inpatient admission and discharge/death between March 1 and May 31, 2020 at 241 US acute care hospitals in the BD Insights Research Database. We assessed microbiological testing data, antimicrobial utilization in admitted patients with ≥24 h of antimicrobial therapy, and length of stay (LOS).

Results

A total of 141,621 patients were tested for SARS-CoV-2 (17,003 [12.0%] positive) and 449,339 patients were not tested. Most (> 90%) patients tested for SARS-CoV-2 had additional microbiologic testing performed compared with 41.9% of SARS-CoV-2-untested patients. Non-SARS-CoV-2 pathogen rates were 20.9% for SARS-CoV-2-positive patients compared with 21.3 and 27.9% for SARS-CoV-2-negative and −untested patients, respectively. Gram-negative bacteria were the most common pathogens (45.5, 44.1, and 43.5% for SARS-CoV-2-positive, −negative, and −untested patients). SARS-CoV-2-positive patients had higher rates of hospital-onset (versus admission-onset) non-SARS-CoV-2 pathogens compared with SARS-CoV-2-negative or −untested patients (42.4, 22.2, and 19.5%, respectively), more antimicrobial usage (68.0, 45.2, and 25.1% of patients), and longer hospital LOS (mean [standard deviation (SD)] of 8.6 [11.4], 5.1 [8.9], and 4.2 [8.0] days) and intensive care unit (ICU) LOS (mean [SD] of 7.8 [8.5], 3.6 [6.2], and 3.6 [5.9] days). For all groups, the presence of a non-SARS-CoV-2 pathogen was associated with increased hospital LOS (mean [SD] days for patients with versus without a non-SARS-CoV-2 pathogen: 13.7 [15.7] vs 7.3 [9.6] days for SARS-CoV-2-positive patients, 8.2 [11.5] vs 4.3 [7.9] days for SARS-CoV-2-negative patients, and 7.1 [11.0] vs 3.9 [7.4] days for SARS-CoV-2-untested patients).

Conclusions

Despite similar rates of non-SARS-CoV-2 pathogens in SARS-CoV-2-positive, −negative, and −untested patients, SARS-CoV-2 was associated with higher rates of hospital-onset infections, greater antimicrobial usage, and extended hospital and ICU LOS. This finding highlights the heavy burden of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare systems and suggests possible opportunities for diagnostic and antimicrobial stewardship.
Standardized uptake values of 99mTc-MDP in normal vertebrae assessed using quantitative SPECT/CT for differentiation diagnosis of benign and malignant bone lesions
Authors: Qi Na , Meng Qingyuan , You Zhiwen , Chen Huiqian , Shou Yi , Zhao Jun
Published: February 2021

Background

Quantitative bone SPECT/CT is useful for disease follow up and inter-patient comparison. For bone metastatic malignant lesions, spine is the most commonly invaded site. However, Quantitative studies with large sample size investigating all the segments of normal cervical, thoracic and lumbar vertebrae are seldom reported. This study was to evaluate the quantitative tomography of normal vertebrae using 99mTc-MDP with SPECT/CT to investigate the feasibility of standardized uptake value (SUV) for differential diagnosis of benign and malignant bone lesions.

Methods

A retrospective study was carried out involving 221 patients (116 males and 105 females) who underwent SPECT/CT scan using 99mTc-MDP. The maximum SUV (SUVmax), mean SUV (SUVmean) and CT values (Hounsfield Unit, HU) of 2416 normal vertebrae bodies, 157 benign bone lesions and 118 malignant bone metastasis foci were obtained. The correlations between SUVmax of normal vertebrae and CT values of normal vertebrae, age, height, weight, BMI of patients were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed with data of normal, benign and malignant groups corresponding to same sites and gender.

Results

The SUVmax and SUVmean of normal vertebrae in males were markedly higher than those in females (P < 0.0009). The SUVmax of each normal vertebral segment showed a strong negative correlation with CT values in both males and females (r = − 0.89 and − 0.92, respectively; P < 0.0009). The SUVmax of normal vertebrae also showed significant correlation with weight, height, and BMI in males (r = 0.4, P < 0.0009; r = 0.28, P = 0.005; r = 0.22, P = 0.026), and significant correlation with weight and BMI in females (r = 0.32, P = 0.009; r = 0.23, P = 0.031). The SUVmax of normal group, benign bone lesion group and malignant bone metastasis foci group showed statistical differences in both males and females.

Conclusion

Our study evaluated SUVmax and SUVmean of normal vertebrae, benign bone lesion and malignant bone metastasis foci with a large sample population. Preliminary results proved the potential value of SUVmax in differentiation benign and malignant bone lesions. The results may provide a quantitative reference for clinical diagnosis and the evaluation of therapeutic response in vertebral lesions.
Detection of gene fusions using targeted next-generation sequencing: a comparative evaluation
Authors: Heydt Carina , Wölwer Christina B. , Velazquez Camacho Oscar , Wagener-Ryczek Svenja , Pappesch Roberto , Siemanowski Janna , Rehker Jan , Haller Florian , Agaimy Abbas , Worm Karl , Herold Thomas , Pfarr Nicole , Weichert Wilko , Kirchner Thomas , Jung Andreas , Kumbrink Jörg , Goering Wolfgang , Esposito Irene , Buettner Reinhard , Hillmer Axel M. , Merkelbach-Bruse Sabine
Published: February 2021

Background

Gene fusions represent promising targets for cancer therapy in lung cancer. Reliable detection of multiple gene fusions is therefore essential.

Methods

Five commercially available parallel sequencing assays were evaluated for their ability to detect gene fusions in eight cell lines and 18 FFPE tissue samples carrying a variety of known gene fusions. Four RNA-based assays and one DNA-based assay were compared; two were hybrid capture-based, TruSight Tumor 170 Assay (Illumina) and SureSelect XT HS Custom Panel (Agilent), and three were amplicon-based, Archer FusionPlex Lung Panel (ArcherDX), QIAseq RNAscan Custom Panel (Qiagen) and Oncomine Focus Assay (Thermo Fisher Scientific).

Results

The Illumina assay detected all tested fusions and showed the smallest number of false positive results. Both, the ArcherDX and Qiagen panels missed only one fusion event. Among the RNA-based assays, the Qiagen panel had the highest number of false positive events. The Oncomine Focus Assay (Thermo Fisher Scientific) was the least adequate assay for our purposes, seven fusions were not covered by the assay and two fusions were classified as uncertain. The DNA-based SureSelect XT HS Custom Panel (Agilent) missed three fusions and nine fusions were only called by one software version. Additionally, many false positive fusions were observed.

Conclusions

In summary, especially RNA-based parallel sequencing approaches are potent tools for reliable detection of targetable gene fusions in clinical diagnostics.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor facilitates the therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells derived exosomes in acute myocardial infarction through upregulating miR-133a-3p
Authors: Zhu Wenwu , Sun Ling , Zhao Pengcheng , Liu Yaowu , Zhang Jian , Zhang Yuelin , Hong Yimei , Zhu Yeqian , Lu Yao , Zhao Wei , Chen Xinguang , Zhang Fengxiang
Published: February 2021

Background

Exosome transplantation is a promising cell-free therapeutic approach for the treatment of ischemic heart disease. The purpose of this study was to explore whether exosomes derived from Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) engineered umbilical cord MSCs (ucMSCs) exhibit superior cardioprotective effects in a rat model of AMI and reveal the mechanisms underlying it.

Results

Exosomes isolated from ucMSCs (MSC-Exo), MIF engineered ucMSCs (MIF-Exo) and MIF downregulated ucMSCs (siMIF-Exo) were used to investigate cellular protective function in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and H9C2 cardiomyocytes under hypoxia and serum deprivation (H/SD) and infarcted hearts in rats. Compared with MSC-Exo and siMIF-Exo, MIF-Exo significantly enhanced proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs and inhibited H9C2 cardiomyocyte apoptosis under H/SD in vitro. MIF-Exo also significantly inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis, reduced fibrotic area, and improved cardiac function as measured by echocardiography in infarcted rats in vivo. Exosomal miRNAs sequencing and qRT-PCR confirmed miRNA-133a-3p significantly increased in MIF-Exo. The biological effects of HUVECs and H9C2 cardiomyocytes were attenuated with incubation of MIF-Exo and miR-133a-3p inhibitors. These effects were accentuated with incubation of siMIF-Exo and miR-133a-3p mimics that increased the phosphorylation of AKT protein in these cells.

Conclusion

MIF-Exo can provide cardioprotective effects by promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting apoptosis, reducing fibrosis, and preserving heart function in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism in the biological activities of MIF-Exo involves miR-133a-3p and the downstream AKT signaling pathway.
Pulmonary midkine inhibition ameliorates sepsis induced lung injury
Authors: Xu Jing-Yuan , Chang Wei , Sun Qin , Peng Fei , Yang Yi
Published: February 2021

Background

Midkine is a multi-functional molecule participating in a various key pathological process. We aimed to evaluate the change of midkine in sepsis and its association with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) system, as well as the mechanism by which midkine induced in sepsis and lung injury.

Methods

The peripheral blood sample of septic patients on admission was obtained and measured for midkine, ACE and angiotensin II. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) mouse model was used, and adeno-associated virus (AAV) was stilled trans-trachea for regional targeting midkine expression, comparing the severity of lung injury. Furthermore, we studied the in vitro mechanism of midkine activates ACE system by using inhibitors targeting candidate receptors of midkine, and its effects on the vascular endothelial cells.

Results

Plasma midkine was significantly elevated in sepsis, and was closely associated with ACE system. Both circulating and lung midkine was increased in CLP mouse, and was related to severe lung injury. Regional interfering midkine expression in lung tissue by AAV could alleviate acute lung injury in CLP model. In vitro study elucidated that Notch 2 participated in the activation of ACE system and angiotensin II release, induced by midkine and triggered vascular endothelial injury by angiotensin II induced reactive oxygen species production.

Conclusions

Midkine inhibition ameliorates sepsis induced lung injury, which might via ACE/Ang II pathway and the participation of Notch 2 in the stimulation of ACE.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02605681. Registered 12 November 2015
Symmetrical dental occlusion blocking – changes of body sway and weight distribution in healthy subjects across 4 age decades
Authors: Maurer-Grubinger C. , Adjami F. , Avaniadi I. , Christian W. , Doerry C. , Fay V. , Fisch V. , Gerez A. , Goecke J. , Kaya U. , Keller J. , Krüger D. , Pflaum J. , Porsch L. , Wischnewski C. , Scharnweber B. , Sosnov P. , Oremek G. , Groneberg D. A. , Ohlendorf D.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Symmetrical dental occlusion blocking is used in dentistry as a quick diagnostic tool to test for potential influences of the craniomandibular system on body sway and weight distribution. This study presents the changes of body sway and pressure distribution in healthy subjects, free of a temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). Immediate effects between occlusal blocking and rest position on body sway and body weight distribution in general, as well as for both genders and for four age decades will be evaluated.

Materials and methods

725 (396f/329 m) subjects (neither subjective signs of TMD nor acute/chronic complaints in the musculoskeletal system) volunteered (21 to 60 years) while both genders were divided into four age groups according to decades. A pressure measuring platform was used. Body sway and weight distribution were recorded in two dental occlusion conditions (a) in rest position and (b) symmetrical blocking (bicuspid region) by cotton rolls.

Results

Both, the frontal sway and the sagittal sway reduced by 0.67 mm (t(724) = − 3.9 (p <  0.001)) and by 0.33 mm (t(724) = − 3.4 (p <  0.001)). The relative pressure under the left forefoot increased by 0.33% (t(724) = 2.88 (p <  0.001)) and the relative pressure overall under the forefoot increased by 0.67% (t(724) = − 3.4 (p <  0.001)). Gender-specific, age-specific and BMI-specific reactions could not be identified.

Conclusions

Subjects, free of any TMD and with no complaints of the musculoskeletal system, show small changes of the body sway and weight distribution when biting symmetrically on a cotton roll. These changes are independent of age, gender or body mass index (BMI). Due to the relative large sample size, the presented results can also be seen as norm values when body sway is used as an additional assessment of a TMD.
Substance use and symptoms of mental health disorders: a prospective cohort of patients with severe substance use disorders in Norway
Authors:   for the INTRO-HCV Study Group, Aas Christer Frode , Vold Jørn Henrik , Gjestad Rolf , Skurtveit Svetlana , Lim Aaron Guanliang , Gjerde Kristian Varden , Løberg Else-Marie , Johansson Kjell Arne , Fadnes Lars Thore
Published: February 2021

Background

There is high co-occurrence of substance use disorders (SUD) and mental health disorders. We aimed to assess impact of substance use patterns and sociodemographic factors on mental health distress using the ten-item Hopkins Symptom Checklist (SCL-10) over time.

Methods

Nested prospective cohort study of 707 participants with severe SUD across nine opioid-agonist-therapy outpatient clinics and low-threshold municipality clinics in Norway, during 2017–2020. Descriptive statistics were derived at baseline and reported by means and standard deviation (SD). A linear mixed model analysis was used to assess the impact of substance use patterns and sociodemographic factors on SCL-10 sum score with beta coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Mean (SD) SCL-10 score was 2.2 (0.8) at baseline with large variations across patients. We observed more symptoms of mental health disorders among people with frequent use of benzodiazepines (beta 3.6, CI:2.4;4.8), cannabis (1.3, CI:0.2;2.5), opioids (2.7, CI:1.1;4.2), and less symptoms among people using frequent stimulant use (− 2.7, CI:-4.1;-1.4) compared to no or less frequent use. Females (1.8, CI:0.7;3.0) and participants with debt worries (2.2, CI:1.1;3.3) and unstable living conditions (1.7, CI:0.0;3.3) had also higher burden of mental health symptoms. There were large individual variations in SCL-10 score from baseline to follow-up, but no consistent time trends indicating change over time for the whole group. 65% of the cohort had a mean score > 1.85, the standard reference score.

Conclusions

People with SUD have a considerable burden of mental health symptoms. We found no association between substance use patterns and change in mental health symptoms over time. This could suggest that the differences observed were indicating flattening of effects or self-medication to a larger degree than medication-related decline in mental health. This call for better individualized mental health assessment and patient care.
MEDIASTinal staging of non-small cell lung cancer by endobronchial and endoscopic ultrasonography with or without additional surgical mediastinoscopy (MEDIASTrial): a statistical analysis plan
Authors:   on behalf of the MEDIASTrial study group, Bousema Jelle E. , Annema Jouke T. , van der Heijden Erik H. F. M. , Verhagen Ad F. T. M. , Dijkgraaf Marcel G. W. , van den Broek Frank J. C.
Published: February 2021

Background

Invasive mediastinal nodal staging is recommended by guidelines in selected patients with resectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Endosonography is recommended as initial staging technique, followed by confirmatory mediastinoscopy in case of negative N2 or N3 cytology after endosonography. Confirmatory mediastinoscopy however is under debate owing its limited additional diagnostic value, its associated morbidity and its delay in the start of lung cancer treatment. The MEDIASTrial examines whether confirmatory mediastinoscopy can be safely omitted after negative endosonography in mediastinal nodal staging of NSCLC. The present work is the proposed statistical analysis plan of the clinical consequences of omitting mediastinoscopy, which is submitted before closure of the MEDIASTrial and before knowledge of any results was done to enhance transparency of scientific behaviour.

Methods

The primary outcome measure of this non-inferiority trial will be unforeseen N2 disease resulting from lobe-specific mediastinal lymph node dissection. For non-inferiority, the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval of the unforeseen N2 rate in the group without mediastinoscopy should not exceed 14.3% in order to probably have no negative impact on survival. Since this is a non-inferiority trial, both an intention to treat (ITT) and a per protocol (PP) analyses will be done. The ITT and the PP analyses should both indicate non-inferiority before the diagnostic strategy omitting mediastinoscopy will be interpreted as non-inferior to the strategy with mediastinoscopy. Secondary outcome measures include 30-day major morbidity and mortality, the total number of days of hospital care, overall and disease free 2-year survival, generic and disease-specific health related quality of life and cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of staging strategies with and without mediastinoscopy.

Discussion

The MEDIASTrial will determine if confirmatory mediastinoscopy can be omitted after tumour negative systematic endosonography in invasive mediastinal staging of patients with resectable NSCLC.

Trial registration

Netherlands Trial RegisterNL6344/NTR6528. Registered on 2017 July 06
Transcriptional activity of transposable elements along an elevational gradient in Arabidopsis arenosa
Authors: Wos Guillaume , Choudhury Rimjhim Roy , Kolář Filip , Parisod Christian
Published: February 2021

Background

Plant genomes can respond rapidly to environmental changes and transposable elements (TEs) arise as important drivers contributing to genome dynamics. Although some elements were reported to be induced by various abiotic or biotic factors, there is a lack of general understanding on how environment influences the activity and diversity of TEs. Here, we combined common garden experiment with short-read sequencing to investigate genomic abundance and expression of 2245 consensus TE sequences (containing retrotransposons and DNA transposons) in an alpine environment in Arabidopsis arenosa. To disentangle general trends from local differentiation, we leveraged four foothill-alpine population pairs from different mountain regions. Seeds of each of the eight populations were raised under four treatments that differed in temperature and irradiance, two factors varying with elevation. RNA-seq analysis was performed on leaves of young plants to test for the effect of elevation and subsequently of temperature and irradiance on expression of TE sequences.

Results

Genomic abundance of the 2245 consensus TE sequences varied greatly between the mountain regions in line with neutral divergence among the regions, representing distinct genetic lineages of A. arenosa. Accounting for intraspecific variation in abundance, we found consistent transcriptomic response for some TE sequences across the different pairs of foothill-alpine populations suggesting parallelism in TE expression. In particular expression of retrotransposon LTR Copia (e.g. Ivana and Ale clades) and LTR Gypsy (e.g. Athila and CRM clades) but also non-LTR LINE or DNA transposon TIR MuDR consistently varied with elevation of origin. TE sequences responding specifically to temperature and irradiance belonged to the same classes as well as additional TE clades containing potentially stress-responsive elements (e.g. LTR Copia Sire and Tar, LTR Gypsy Reina).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that the A. arenosa genome harbours a considerable diversity of TE sequences whose abundance and expression response varies across its native range. Some TE clades may contain transcriptionally active elements responding to a natural environmental gradient. This may further contribute to genetic variation between populations and may ultimately provide new regulatory mechanisms to face environmental challenges.