bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology and Short-Term Outcomes of Obstetrical Suspected COVID-19 Patient: A Cross-Sectional Study in a COVID Dedicated Hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Mollick Md Moniruzzaman , Sultana Zakia , Akhter Nasrin
Published: May 2021

Background: COVID-19 is defiantly most notifiable killing infectious disease in twenty-first century that to bring unprecedented deadly toll in human life. Many developing and under developing countries faces great challenges to provide treatment facilities to their country people. Pregnant women are not beyond that exception. Besides, they experience absence of sensible humanity that never happened in the history of recent past. Many of them risking their lives and they suffered premature delivery, IUD, Still birth, PPH and even death for unnecessary delay to reach and receive treatment due to social stigma about COVID-19.

Methods: This study was conducted in Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology of COVID Dedicated Unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital. 300 COVID-19 suspected obstetrical patients included conveniently. The study period was from July 2020 to August 2020. It was a prospective observational cross-sectional study. The study subjects were selected following convenience sampling technique.

Results: In this study majority of the patient (62.2%) were in the age group 20-29, where age limit was 14 to 45 years. Majority of the patients (55.7%) was either Illiterate or could sign only. Around half (51.0%) of the patients had monthly family income <10,000 BDT. Of all cases, 57.7% were multipara, 37.7% were primipara and 4.6% were grand multipara. Among all, 43.38% had VD and 56.62% had LUCS. Out of them 3.68% were COVID-19 positive cases. Of all, 51% lived in the urban, 29% in sub-urban, and 20% in the rural area. In this study, 1.80% deaths within suspected cases, 14.28% death among admitted positive cases and there was no death found among suspected turned to positive cases. Among all, 9.55% babies were IUD & Still born, 2.20% needed ICU, where 0.73% mothers were positive, and 88.23% babies were normal where 2.94% mothers were positive mother. In present study, 4.33% needed HFNC/Ventilator support who were critically ill, out of them COVID-19 positive cases were 1.33%. Off all 300 patients, case fatality rate (CFR) was 0.67% where among all positive cases it was 4.56%.

Conclusion: Pregnant woman being considered potentially vulnerable to viral infection. Physiological changes during pregnancy have a significant impact on different functional systems of body. COVID-19 also increases the risk and suffering many fold to pregnant women on different dimension of life. The ultimate outcome, most of the positive cases unencumbered themselves by the cost of their senseless suffering and life.

JOPSOM 2020; 39(2): 45-49
Benefits of Cervical Cerclage to Improve Pregnancy Outcome in Cervical Incompetence
Authors: Ara Anjuman , Khan Sanjida , Akhter Mahbuba , Jahan Eshrat , Hassan Mohammad Anwarul , Khanam Fahmida
Published: May 2021

Background: To determine ability of cervical cerclage to improve pregnancy outcome in patients having cervical incompetence.

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at Central Hospital Limited, Dhanmondi, Dhaka on 35 patients. All had history of one or more mid trimester abortion and were subjected to cervical cerclage (McDonald suture).

Results: Average pregnancy prolongation was 17 weeks. Just over half of these women (51%) delivered at term and just over half the newborns (51%) weighed above 2.5 kg. Over 11% had abortion, 14% had preterm PROM and 14% preterm labour. Term PROM was the outcome in 5.7% and cervical injury occurred in 8.6%.

Conclusion: Cervical cerclage is beneficial for pregnancy with cervical insufficiency and hence placement of cervical cerclage can reduce early pregnancy loss.

JOPSOM 2020; 39(2): 70-73
Out-of-Pocket Expenditure of the Hospitalized Patients for Treatment of Liver Cirrhosis in a Tertiary Hopspital
Authors: Haque Mohammad Farhadul , Islam ANM Shamsul , Akter Emily , Md Ershad Sk , Md Israfil Kazi
Published: May 2021

Background: Out-of-pocket expenditure is the major financer for health care expenses in Bangladesh, causing financial burden on affected households. Chronic disease like liver cirrhosis requires long term treatment, exposing households to further economic stress, pushing them into a state where they fail to meet the necessary health expenses from their own household consumption and sacrifices basic necessities of living to pay for healthcare services. This study aims to estimate the OOP expenditure and resulting catastrophic health expenditure among hospitalized patients of liver cirrhosis.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 42 diagnosed liver cirrhosis patients admitted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) under the department of hepatology and department of gastroenterology, aged 18 years and above. Convenient sampling technique was used and data were collected from the respondents using a semi-structured questionnaire through face-to-face interview during discharge from hospital.

Results: Out of pocket expenditure for liver cirrhosis at BSMMU was BDT 24,898. Direct medical cost was BDT 21,202, direct non-medical cost was BDT 1,895 and indirect cost was BDT 1,801. Among the determinants of OOP healthcare expenditure, medicine and investigation costs were the major cost drivers, 36.91% and 44.13% of the total expenditure, respectively. OOP expenditure was found to be slightly higher among respondents from department of hepatology, than department of gastroenterology, BDT 21,834 and BDT 18,043 respectively, but this difference was not statistically significant. At 10% threshold level, 40.5% of the respondents were affected by Catastrophic Healthcare Expenditure (CHE). Nearly one-third (30.9%) of the respondents were facing distress financing due to OOP Expenditure.

Conclusions: The high amount of OOP expenditure can be contributed mostly to the high cost of medicine and investigation. Making medicine readily available at an affordable price along with rational use of medication and investigation for diagnostic purpose can help reduce this financial burden on affected households.

JOPSOM 2020; 39(2): 74-82
PENGARUH TANAMAN REFUGIA TERHADAP POPULASI MUSUH ALAMI WERENG BATANG COKLAT (NILAPARVATA LUGENS STAL.) PADA BUDIDAYA TANAMAN PADI (ORYZA SATIVA L.)
Authors: Habibi Imam , Fuadah Ainyatus Syarifatul
Published: May 2021

Padi merupakan salah satu komoditas utama yang digunakan sebagai makanan pokok seluruh masyarakat di Negara Indonesia bahkan dunia. Upaya peningkatan produksi padi menghadapi tantangan yang semakin berat. Salah satu hama yang menjadi faktor kerusakan terbesar pada hasil tanaman padi adalah serangan wereng batang coklat (Nilaparvata lugens Stal.). Salah satu alternatif yang bisa digunakan untuk pengendalian hama wereng batang coklat yang lebih ramah lingkungan menggunakan teknik Pengelolaan Hama Terpadu (PHT) dengan rekayasa  lingkungan menggunakan tanaman refugia. Tanaman refugia yang dapat digunakan yaitu tanaman kemangi, tanaman kubis bunga dan tanaman seledri. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui pengaruh tanaman refugia terhadap keanekaragaman dan kelimpahan musuh alami WBC pada tanaman padi serta hasil panen bobot 100 butir gabah. Penelitian ini dimulai pada September sampai Desember 2019. Bertempat di Laboratorium Lapang Terpadu, Universitas Islam Kadiri, di Desa Rejomulyo, Kecamatan Kota Kediri, dengan kedaan topografi berada pada ketinggian 67 mdpl, dengan rerata suhu dan kelembapan harian (35˚C dan 50 %), Kecepatan angin 3,6 m/s (13,03 km/jam), memiliki jenis tanah lempung berpasir, pH ± 6,2 dan curah hujan 3,5 mm/bulan. Dengan variabel pengamatan yang dilakukan yaitu keanekaragaman dan kelimpahan musuh alami WBC, serta berat 100 butir gabah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan penggunaan tanaman refugia berpengaruh nyata terhadap kemerataan populasi musuh alami WBC yaitu famili formicidae dan carabidae pada budidaya tanaman padi dengan tanaman kemangi sebagai tanaman refugia namun hasil panen bobot 100 butir gabah tidak berpengaruh nyata.
Identification of Gingivitis-Related Genes Across Human Tissues Based on the Summary Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Sun Mingai , Zhao Yuanyuan , Geng Guannan , Hu Yang
Published: May 2021

Periodontal diseases are among the most frequent inflammatory diseases affecting children and adolescents, which affect the supporting structures of the teeth and lead to tooth loss and contribute to systemic inflammation. Gingivitis is the most common periodontal infection. Gingivitis, which is mainly caused by a substance produced by microbial plaque, systemic disorders, and genetic abnormalities in the host. Identifying gingivitis-related genes across human tissues is not only significant for understanding disease mechanisms but also disease development and clinical diagnosis. The Genome-wide association study (GWAS) a commonly used method to mine disease-related genetic variants. However, due to some factors such as linkage disequilibrium, it is difficult for GWAS to identify genes directly related to the disease. Hence, we constructed a data integration method that uses the Summary Mendelian randomization (SMR) to combine the GWAS with expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) data to identify gingivitis-related genes. Five eQTL studies from different human tissues and one GWAS studies were referenced in this paper. This study identified several candidates SNPs and genes relate to gingivitis in tissue-specific or cross-tissue. Further, we also analyzed and explained the functions of these genes. The R program for the SMR method has been uploaded to GitHub(https://github.com/hxdde/SMR).
Scaling CO2 Capture With Downstream Flow CO2 Conversion to Ethanol
Authors: Pace Grant , Sheehan Stafford W.
Published: May 2021

To prevent the global average temperature from increasing more than 1.5°C and lower the concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, most emissions trajectories necessitate the implementation of strategies that include both GHG mitigation and negative emissions technologies (NETs). For NETs, there are unique research challenges faced by both CO2 capture and utilization to scale in an economically feasible manner. Starting with incumbent methods, wherein CO2 is recovered from a high concentration source, and moving toward CO2 capture from more widely available dilute sources, we outline how CO2 capture systems interface with downstream utilization in flow reactors. To provide a real-world point of comparison, we analyze CO2 sourcing for Air Company's CO2-to-alcohols pilot and demonstration scale deployments in Brooklyn, New York, USA and Calgary, Alberta, Canada as case studies. The degree of reduction in atmospheric CO2 depends on product alcohol usage; for example, use as a fixed chemical feedstock provides longer term emissions reduction than as a fuel, which is eventually oxidized. Lastly, we discuss the barriers that are present for economic scale-up of CO2 capture and utilization technologies broadly.
Minireview: Novel Micropeptide Discovery by Proteomics and Deep Sequencing Methods
Authors: Tharakan Ravi , Sawa Akira
Published: May 2021

A novel class of small proteins, called micropeptides, has recently been discovered in the genome. These proteins, which have been found to play important roles in many physiological and cellular systems, are shorter than 100 amino acids and were overlooked during previous genome annotations. Discovery and characterization of more micropeptides has been ongoing, often using -omics methods such as proteomics, RNA sequencing, and ribosome profiling. In this review, we survey the recent advances in the micropeptides field and describe the methodological and conceptual challenges facing future micropeptide endeavors.
Attenuated T Cell Responses Are Associated With the Blockade of Cerebral Malaria Development by YOP1-Deficient Plasmodium berghei ANKA
Authors: Hai Lei , Shi Xiaoyu , Wang Qian
Published: May 2021

Reticulon and the REEP family of proteins stabilize the high curvature of endoplasmic reticulum tubules. The REEP5 homolog inPlasmodium,Plasmodium bergheiYOP1 (PbYOP1), plays an important role in the erythrocytic cycle of theP. bergheiANKA and the pathogenesis of experimental cerebral malaria (ECM), but the mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we show that protection from ECM inPbyop1Δ-infected mice is associated with reduced intracerebral Th1 accumulation, decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and attenuated pathologies in the brainstem, though the total number of CD4+and CD8+T cells sequestered in the brain are not reduced. Expression of adhesive molecules on brain endothelial cells, including ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and CD36, are decreased, particularly in the brainstem, where fatal pathology is always induced during ECM. Subsequently, CD8+T cell-mediated cell apoptosis in the brain is compromised. These findings suggest thatPbyop1Δ parasites can be a useful tool for mechanistic investigation of cerebral malaria pathogenesis.
Effects of White Matter Hyperintensities on Verbal Fluency in Healthy Older Adults and MCI/AD
Authors: Kaskikallio Alar , Karrasch Mira , Koikkalainen Juha , Lötjönen Jyrki , Rinne Juha O. , Tuokkola Terhi , Parkkola Riitta , Grönholm-Nyman Petra
Published: May 2021

Background

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are markers for cerebrovascular pathology, which are frequently seen in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Verbal fluency is often impaired especially in AD, but little research has been conducted concerning the specific effects of WMH on verbal fluency in MCI and AD.

Objective

Our aim was to examine the relationship between WMH and verbal fluency in healthy old age and pathological aging (MCI/AD) using quantified MRI data.

Methods

Measures for semantic and phonemic fluency as well as quantified MRI imaging data from a sample of 42 cognitively healthy older adults and 44 patients with MCI/AD (total n = 86) were utilized. Analyses were performed both using the total sample that contained seven left-handed/ambidextrous participants, as well with a sample containing only right-handed participants (n = 79) in order to guard against possible confounding effects regarding language lateralization.

Results

After controlling for age and education and adjusting for multiple correction, WMH in the bilateral frontal and parieto-occipital areas as well as the right temporal area were associated with semantic fluency in cognitively healthy and MCI/AD patients but only in the models containing solely right-handed participants.

Conclusion

The results indicate that white matter pathology in both frontal and parieto-occipital cerebral areas may have associations with impaired semantic fluency in right-handed older adults. However, elevated levels of WMH do not seem to be associated with cumulative effects on verbal fluency impairment in patients with MCI or AD. Further studies on the subject are needed.
Sex Differences in Risk Factors for Transient Ischemic Attack in a Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Wendi , Sun Pei , Han Fengyue , Qu Chuanqiang
Published: May 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to collect and evaluate basic information of a stroke screening population in eastern China and to compare distribution differences in risk factors between males and females in a transient ischemic attack (TIA) population.

Methods: A standardization of the risk factors for stroke was performed according to an implementation plan of stroke in a high-risk population screening and intervention project in Shandong Province. Of the 231,289 residents, 8,603 patients with a previous TIA were identified and risk factors in this cohort were analyzed for sex differences.

Results: In our initial cohort of 231,289 residents, we found 3,390 men and 5,213 women with TIA, accounting for a prevalence of 3.1 and 4.2%, respectively. Risk factors for TIA were hypertension, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, smoking, lack of exercise, overweight, and family history of stroke. In our TIA cohort, we found that the prevalence of smoking was significantly higher in men (41.3%) compared with that found in women (4.2%). Further, hypertension (58.8 vs. 55.5%) and family history of stroke (22.3 vs. 20.0%) were more prevalent in men compared with women, whereas atrial fibrillation (AF) (14.7 vs. 16.4%), diabetes (11.1 vs. 13.2%), lack of exercise (27.2 vs. 28.0%), and overweight (29.5 vs. 35.7%) were less prevalent.

Conclusions: In our TIA cohort from eastern China, we found significant sex differences for the risk factors of hypertension, atrial fibrillation, smoking, diabetes, and overweight.
Brain Volume and Perception of Cognitive Impairment in People With Multiple Sclerosis and Their Caregivers
Authors: Fenu Giuseppe , Lorefice Lorena , Carta Elisa , Arru Mauro , Carta Alice , Fronza Marzia , Coghe Giancarlo , Frau Jessica , Contu Franco , Barracciu Maria Antonietta , Cocco Eleonora
Published: May 2021

Background: Cognitive impairment (CI) is common in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). The assessment of CI is based on neuropsychological tests and accurate anamnesis, involving the patients and caregivers (CG). This study aimed to assess the complex interplay between self-perception of CI, objective CI and the brain atrophy of MS patients, also exploring the possible differences with CI evaluated by caregivers.

Methods: Relapsing pwMS were enrolled in this study. Subjects underwent neuropsychological examination using the Brief Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) and evaluation of self-reported cognitive status using the patient-version of the Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Questionnaire (p-MSNQ). Depression and anxiety were also evaluated using the Back Depression Inventory-version II (BDI-II) and Zung Anxiety Scale. Brain MRI images were acquired and brain volumes estimated. For each patient that was enrolled, we spoke to a caregiver and collected their perception of the patient's CI using the MSNQ- Caregiver version.

Results: Ninety-five MS subjects with their caregivers were enrolled. CI was detected in 51 (53.7%) patients. We found a significant correlation (p < 0.001) between BICAMS T scores and lower whole brain (Rho = 0.51), gray matter (Rho = 0.54), cortical gray matter (Rho = 0.51) volumes and lower p-MSNQ (Rho = 0.31), and cg-MSNQ (Rho = 0.41) scores. Multivariate logistic regression showed that p-MSNQ is related to a patient's anxiety to evaluate by Zung Score (p < 0.001) while cg-MSNQ to patient's brain volume (p = 0.01).

Conclusion: Our data confirm that neuropsychological evaluation results are related to the perception of CI and brain volume measures and highlight the importance of the caregiver's perception for cognitive assessment of pwMS.
The Mini-Craniotomy for cSDH Revisited: New Perspectives
Authors: Chen Jefferson W. , Xu Jordan C. , Malkasian Dennis , Perez-Rosendahl Mari A. , Tran Diem Kieu
Published: May 2021

Background: Chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH) are increasingly prevalent worldwide with the increased aging population and anticoagulant use. Different surgical, medical, and endovascular treatments have had varying success rates. Primary neurosurgical interventions include burr hole drainage of the cSDH and mini-craniotomies/craniotomies with or without fenestration of the inner membrane. A key assessment of the success or failure of cSDH treatments has been symptomatic recurrence rates which have historically ranged from 5 to 30%. Pre-operative prediction of the inner subdural membrane by CT scan was used to guide our decision to perform mini-craniotomies. Release of the inner membrane facilitates the expansion of the brain and likely improves glymphatic flow.

Methods: Consecutive mini-craniotomies (N = 34) for cSDH evacuation performed by a single neurosurgeon at a quaternary academic medical center/Level I trauma center from July 2018-September 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient characteristics [age, gender, presenting GCS, GOS, initial CTs noting the inner subdural membrane, midline shift (MLS), cSDH width, inner membrane fenestration, cSDH recurrence, post-operative seizures, infections, length of stay] were extracted from the EMR.

Results: Twenty nine patients had mini-craniotomies as primary treatment of the cSDH. Mean age = 68.9 ± 19.7 years (range 22–102), mean pre-operative GCS = 14.5 ± 1.1, mean MLS = 6.75 ± 4.2 mm, and mean maximum thickness of cSDH = 17.7 ± 6.0 mm. Twenty four were unilateral, five bilateral, 34 total craniotomies were performed. Thirty three had inner membrane signs on pre-operative head CTs and an inner subdural membrane was fenestrated in all cases except for the one craniotomy that didn't show these characteristic CT findings. Mean operating time = 79.5 ± 26.0 min. Radiographic and clinical improvement occurred in all patients. Mean improvement in MLS = 3.85 ± 2.69. There were no symptomatic recurrences, re-operations, surgical site infections, or deaths during the 6 months of follow-up. One patient was treated for post-operative seizures with AEDs for 6 months.

Conclusion: Pre-operative CT scans demonstrating inner subdural membranes may guide one to target the treatment to allow release of this tension band. Mini-craniotomy with careful fenestration of the inner membrane is very effective for this. Brain re-expansion and re-establishment of normal brain interstitial flow may be important in long term outcomes with cSDH and may be related to the recent interests in brain glymphatics and dural lymphatics.
Prediction of Clinical Outcomes in Acute Ischaemic Stroke Patients: A Comparative Study
Authors: Rajashekar Deepthi , Hill Michael D. , Demchuk Andrew M. , Goyal Mayank , Fiehler Jens , Forkert Nils D.
Published: May 2021

Background: Clinical stroke rehabilitation decision making relies on multi-modal data, including imaging and other clinical assessments. However, most previously described methods for predicting long-term stroke outcomes do not make use of the full multi-modal data available. The aim of this work was to develop and evaluate the benefit of nested regression models that utilise clinical assessments as well as image-based biomarkers to model 30-day NIHSS.

Method: 221 subjects were pooled from two prospective trials with follow-up MRI or CT scans, and NIHSS assessed at baseline, as well as 48-hours and 30 days after symptom onset. Three prediction models for 30-day NIHSS were developed using a support vector regression model: one clinical model based on modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors (MCLINICAL) and two nested regression models that aggregate clinical and image-based features that differed with respect to the method used for selection of important brain regions for the modelling task. The first model used the widely accepted RreliefF (MRELIEF) machine learning method for this purpose, while the second model employed a lesion-symptom mapping technique (MLSM) often used in neuroscience to investigate structure-function relationships and identify eloquent regions in the brain.

Results: The two nested models achieved a similar performance while considerably outperforming the clinical model. However, MRELIEF required fewer brain regions and achieved a lower mean absolute error than MLSM while being less computationally expensive.

Conclusion: Aggregating clinical and imaging information leads to considerably better outcome prediction models. While lesion-symptom mapping is a useful tool to investigate structure-function relationships of the brain, it does not lead to better outcome predictions compared to a simple data-driven feature selection approach, which is less computationally expensive and easier to implement.
Voxel-Based State Space Modeling Recovers Task-Related Cognitive States in Naturalistic fMRI Experiments
Authors: Zhang Tianjiao , Gao James S. , Çukur Tolga , Gallant Jack L.
Published: May 2021

Complex natural tasks likely recruit many different functional brain networks, but it is difficult to predict how such tasks will be represented across cortical areas and networks. Previous electrophysiology studies suggest that task variables are represented in a low-dimensional subspace within the activity space of neural populations. Here we develop a voxel-based state space modeling method for recovering task-related state spaces from human fMRI data. We apply this method to data acquired in a controlled visual attention task and a video game task. We find that each task induces distinct brain states that can be embedded in a low-dimensional state space that reflects task parameters, and that attention increases state separation in the task-related subspace. Our results demonstrate that the state space framework offers a powerful approach for modeling human brain activity elicited by complex natural tasks.
Platelet-Rich Plasma in Female Androgenic Alopecia: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Shuying , Qi Fei , Gong Yue , Zhang Chenxi , Zhao Siqi , Yang Xutong , He Yanling
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The population of young women who suffered from female pattern hair loss (FPHL) or female androgenic alopecia (AGA) is gradually increasing. Platelet-rich plasma is a novel and promising therapeutic method as a nonsurgical treatment for FPHL.

Objective: To summarize different preparation methods of PRP and treatment regimes in FPHL, qualitatively evaluate the current observations, and quantitively analyze the efficacy of PRP in FPHL treatment.

Methods: Six databases, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, LILACS, and CNKI, were searched with terms “platelet-rich plasma,” synonyms for AGA and FPHL. Meta-analysis was conducted with enrolled observational studies and randomized controlled trials separately.

Results: We evaluated 636 studies and 12 trials from all searched databases. A total of 42 studies of 1,569 cases, including 776 female participants covering 16 randomized controlled trials and 26 observational trials, were included for qualitative synthesis study and systematic review. PRP showed positive efficacy in treating FPHL in hair density compared to the control groups with odds ratio (OR) 1.61, 95% CI 0.52–2.70, and compared to baseline with OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.86–1.37.

Conclusion: PRP showed excellent efficiency as a novel therapy of FPHL through hair density evaluation. Further studies are needed to define standardized protocols, and large-scale randomized trials still need to be conducted to confirm its efficacy.
Intermuscular Adipose Tissue as a Risk Factor for Mortality and Muscle Injury in Critically Ill Patients Affected by COVID-19
Authors: Rossi Andrea P. , Gottin Leonardo , Donadello Katia , Schweiger Vittorio , Brandimarte Piero , Zamboni Giulia A. , Florio Alessandro , Boetti Riccardo , Pavan Gaia , Zamboni Mauro , Polati Enrico
Published: May 2021

Background

Muscular fatigue and injury are frequently observed in critically ill COVID-19 patients. The aim of this study was to determine whether different muscle adipose tissue depots are associated with mortality and muscle damage in patients affected by COVID-19 admitted to the ICU.

Methods

CT images were obtained in 153 ICU patients with COVID-19 (121 males and 32 females). Height, weight, body mass index (BMI), C-reactive protein, Creatine PhosphoKinase (CPK), muscle density, and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) were measured.

Results

Participants in the highest tertile of IMAT/muscle had the shorter 28-day survival from ICU admission as compared to subjects in the first tertile. Estimates derived from the Cox proportional hazard models, after adjustment for age, sex, and BMI, confirmed the results of the survival analysis (HR 3.94, 95% CI: 1.03–15.09). Participants in the lowest tertile of muscle density had the shorter survival at 28 days from ICU admission as compared to subjects in the highest tertile (HR 3.27, 95% CI: 1.18–4.61), but the relationship was no longer significant when age was included in the model. Subjects in the second muscle density tertile did not show an increased risk.

Participants in the highest tertile of IMAT/muscle and those in the lowest tertile of muscle density showed both significantly higher CPK adjusted for weight values as evaluated during the first 8 days of hospitalization.

Conclusion

Our data seem to suggest that higher levels of IMAT/muscle and low muscle density are both associated with higher risk of ICU mortality and muscle injury as evaluated with CPK level.
Automated Test Assembly for Multistage Testing With Cognitive Diagnosis
Authors: Li Guiyu , Cai Yan , Gao Xuliang , Wang Daxun , Tu Dongbo
Published: May 2021

Computer multistage adaptive test (MST) combines the advantages of paper and pencil-based test (P&P) and computer-adaptive test (CAT). As CAT, MST is adaptive based on modules; as P&P, MST can meet the need of test developers to manage test forms and keep test forms parallel. Cognitive diagnosis (CD) can accurately measure students’ knowledge states (KSs) and provide diagnostic information, which is conducive to student’s self-learning and teacher’s targeted teaching. Although MST and CD have a lot of advantages, many factors prevent MST from applying to CD. In this study, we first attempt to employ automated test assembly (ATA) to achieve the objectives of MST in the application of CD (called CD-MST) via heuristic algorithms. The mean correct response probability of all KSs for each item is used to describe the item difficulty of CD. The attribute reliability in CD is defined as the test quantitative target. A simulation study with the G-DINA model (generalized deterministic input noisy “and” gate model) was carried out to investigate the proposed CD-MST, and the results showed that the assembled panels of CD-MST satisfied the statistical and the non-statistical constraints.
The Impact of Consumers’ Choice Deferral Behavior on Their Intertemporal Choice Preference
Authors: Wei He-Lin , Hai Chen-Ying , Zhu Shao-Ying , Lyu Bei
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore the influence of consumers’ choice deferral behavior on their intertemporal choice preference. The empirical study shows that consumers’ choice deferral behavior can significantly affect their intertemporal decision preference through the level of hopefulness. Compared with non-choice deferral behavior, choice deferral behavior can improve the level of consumers’ sense of hopefulness, which then makes them prefer larger-longer interests in intertemporal decision-making. The effect of consumers’ sense of hopefulness on their intertemporal choice preference is moderated by their perceived information integrity. When the perceived information integrity is low, the effect of hopefulness on intertemporal decision preference will be enhanced, but when the perceived information integrity is high, the effect of hopefulness on intertemporal decision preference will not be affected. In addition, the theoretical and practical significance of this study and the prospect of future research are also discussed.
Typologies of Adolescent Musicians and Experiences of Performance Anxiety Among Instrumental Learners
Authors: Papageorgi Ioulia
Published: May 2021

Literature suggests that music performance anxiety (MPA) is prevalent in adolescence, a developmental period with increased likelihood of experiencing anxiety under evaluative conditions. Evidence also indicate that individuals may respond to evaluative situations in distinct ways. Factors contributing to the individuality of responses in evaluative situations (such as test taking and musical performance) are not yet fully understood. This study investigated student typologies in adolescent instrumental learners. Participants included 410 learners who completed the Young Musicians’ Performance Questionnaire. K-Means cluster analysis revealed three typologies: Cluster 1 – moderately anxious students evidencing lower levels of motivation and feeling ineffective but guarding their self-esteem; Cluster 2 – highly anxious students evidencing negative self-perceptions and being susceptible to experiencing maladaptive MPA; Cluster 3 – low anxious students evidencing high levels of motivation and confidence and inclined toward experiencing adaptive MPA. The 3-cluster solution effectiveness was validated with discriminant analysis. Significant associations between examination achievement and cluster membership revealed variations between clusters. Thematic analysis of qualitative data facilitated further understanding of their characteristics. This study adds to the body of MPA literature by exploring the different ways with which adolescent musicians interpret and respond to anxiety inducing situations. Findings have implications for clinical and educational practice.
Attitudes Toward COVID-19 Vaccination Among Young Adults in Zurich, Switzerland, September 2020
Authors: Leos-Toro Cesar , Ribeaud Denis , Bechtiger Laura , Steinhoff Annekatrin , Nivette Amy , Murray Aja L. , Hepp Urs , Quednow Boris B. , Eisner Manuel P. , Shanahan Lilly
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Young adults are essential to the effective mitigation of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19) given their tendency toward greater frequency of social interactions. Little is known about vaccine willingness during pandemics in European populations. This study examined young people’s attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines in Fall 2020.

Methods: Data came from an ongoing longitudinal study’s online COVID-19-focused supplement among young adults aged 22 in Zurich, Switzerland (N = 499) in September 2020. Logistic regressions examined young adults’ likelihood of participating in COVID-19 immunization programs.

Results: Approximately half of respondents reported being unlikely to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Compared to males, females were more likely to oppose COVID-19 vaccination (p < 0.05). In multivariate models, Sri Lankan maternal background and higher socioeconomic status were associated with a greater likelihood of getting vaccinated against COVID-19 (p < 0.05). Respondents were more likely to report a willingness to get vaccinated against COVID-19 when they perceived 1) an effective government response (p < 0.05) and 2) their information sources to be objective (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study communicates aspects important to the development of targeted information campaigns to promote engagement in COVID-19 immunization efforts.
Wzgarda, ludzie i Bóg. Semantyka słów z gniazda leksykalnego
 w średniowieczu i twórczości Jana Kochanowskiego
Authors: Pawelec Radosław
Published: May 2021

In the Middle Ages, words from the nest ‘pogarda’ (contempt) are characterised
by semantic and axiological diversity. They can be found in religious texts in
requests addressed to God for not rejecting a man or in negative evaluations of the
human disregard for God’s commands and rules. With respect to interpersonal
relations, they mean that one person disregards another one, rejects or refuses
to help him or her. The latter might have had legal consequences if the person
was obliged to provide such help. In Jan Kochanowski’s works, the meanings
of such words do not change signifi cantly; fi rst of all, they are specifi ed in their
humane dimension in the human world and the stylistic use of their religious
markedness is also noticeable. A further semantic evolution goes in the direction
of “sharpening” the negative sense of the lexemes, which involves, among others,
a change of ethics in the democratic society, where every human being is entitled
to equal respect.
Keywords: history of language – semantics – lexicology – axiolinguistics – artistic
language – Jan Kochanowski
Serious Neurological Adverse Events of Ceftriaxone
Authors: Lacroix Clémence , Bera-Jonville Annie-Pierre , Montastruc François , Velly Lionel , Micallef Joëlle , Guilhaumou Romain
Published: May 2021

We described ceftriaxone-induced CNS adverse events through the largest case series of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) reports, from 1995 to 2017, using the French Pharmacovigilance Database. In total, 152 cases of serious CNS ADRs were analyzed; 112 patients were hospitalized or had a prolonged hospitalization (73.7%), 12 dead (7.9%) and 16 exhibited life-threatening ADRs (10.5%). The median age was 74.5 years, mainly women (55.3%), with a median creatinine clearance of 35 mL/min. Patients mainly exhibited convulsions, status epilepticus, myoclonia (n = 75, 49.3%), encephalopathy (n = 45, 29.6%), confused state (n = 34, 22.4%) and hallucinations (n = 16, 10.5%). The median time of onset was 4 days, and the median duration was 4.5 days. The mean daily dose was 1.7 g mainly through an intravenous route (n = 106, 69.7%), and three patients received doses above maximal dose of Summary of Product Characteristics. Ceftriaxone plasma concentrations were recorded for 19 patients (12.5%), and 8 were above the toxicity threshold. Electroencephalograms (EEG) performed for 32.9% of the patients (n = 50) were abnormal for 74% (n = 37). We described the world’s biggest case series of ceftriaxone-induced serious CNS ADRs. Explorations (plasma concentrations, EEG) are contributive to confirm the ceftriaxone toxicity-induced. Clinicians may be cautious with the use of ceftriaxone, especially in the older age or renal impairment population.
Characteristics of Particle Size Distributions of Falling Volcanic Ash Measured by Optical Disdrometers at the Sakurajima Volcano, Japan
Authors: Maki Masayuki , Takaoka Ren , Iguchi Masato
Published: May 2021

In the present study, we analyzed the particle size distribution (PSD) of falling volcanic ash particles measured using optical disdrometers during six explosive eruptions of the Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Assuming the gamma PSD model, which is commonly used in radar meteorology, we examined the relationships between each of the gamma PSD parameters (the intercept parameter, the slope parameter, and the shape parameter) calculated by the complete moment method. It was shown that there were good correlations between each of the gamma PSD parameters, which might be one of the characteristics of falling volcanic ash particles. We found from the normalized gamma PSD analysis that the normalized intercept parameter and mass-weighted mean diameter are suitable for estimating the ash fall rate. We also derived empirical power law relationships between pairs of integrated PSD parameters: the ash fall rate, the volcanic ash mass concentration, the reflectivity factor, and the total number of ash particles per unit volume. The results of the present study provide essential information for studying microphysical processes in volcanic ash clouds, developing a method for quantitative ash fall estimation using weather radar, and improving ash transport and sedimentation models.
Nanocomposite of Ellagic Acid with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for the Simultaneous Voltammetric Detection of Six Biomolecules
Authors: Sabbaghi Najmeh , Noroozifar Meissam , Kerman Kagan
Published: May 2021

In this proof-of-concept study, a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor using a graphite paste electrode modified with ellagic acid and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MGPE/MWCNTs-EA) was developed for the simultaneous determination of six biomolecules: ascorbic acid (AA), dopamine (DA), uric acid (UA), tryptophan (Trp), xanthine (XA), and caffeine (CA). Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was performed at a potential range from 0.1–1.2 V vs. Ag/AgCl in phosphate electrolyte (pH 2.0). The modified GPE enabled the simultaneous determination of biomolecules under investigation in human urine and blood serum samples with detection limits ranging from 11–91 nM with recoveries of 94.0–106.0%. The electrochemical performance of the modified GPE for the analytes was stable and reproducible and checked with standard high performance liquid chromatography technique. The data suggested that the modified GPE provided a promising platform for routine quantitative determination of the biomolecules under investigation in quality control studies of real samples collected from food and pharmaceutical products.
Obesity and Androgen Receptor Signaling: Associations and Potential Crosstalk in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Rangel Nelson , Villegas Victoria E. , Rondón-Lagos Milena
Published: May 2021

Obesity is an increasing health challenge and is recognized as a breast cancer risk factor. Although obesity-related breast cancer mechanisms are not fully understood, this association has been linked to impaired hormone secretion by the dysfunctional obese adipose tissue (hyperplasic and hypertrophic adipocytes). Among these hormones, altered production of androgens and adipokines is observed, and both, are independently associated with breast cancer development. In this review, we describe and comment on the relationships reported between these factors and breast cancer, focusing on the biological associations that have helped to unveil the mechanisms by which signaling from androgens and adipokines modifies the behavior of mammary epithelial cells. Furthermore, we discuss the potential crosstalk between the two most abundant adipokines produced by the adipose tissue (adiponectin and leptin) and the androgen receptor, an emerging marker in breast cancer. The identification and understanding of interactions among adipokines and the androgen receptor in cancer cells are necessary to guide the development of new therapeutic approaches in order to prevent and cure obesity and breast cancer.
Crown-Like Structures in Breast Adipose Tissue: Early Evidence and Current Issues in Breast Cancer
Authors: Maliniak Maret L. , Miller-Kleinhenz Jasmine , Cronin-Fenton Deirdre P. , Lash Timothy L. , Gogineni Keerthi , Janssen Emiel A. M. , McCullough Lauren E.
Published: May 2021

Obesity is an established risk factor for postmenopausal breast cancer and has been linked to worse breast cancer prognosis, most clearly for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. The underlying mechanisms of the obesity–breast cancer association are not fully understood, but growing evidence points to the breast adipose tissue microenvironment playing an important role. Obesity-induced adipose tissue dysfunction can result in a chronic state of low-grade inflammation. Crown-like structures of the breast (CLS-B) were recently identified as a histologic marker of local inflammation. In this review, we evaluate the early evidence of CLS-B in breast cancer. Data from preclinical and clinical studies show that these inflammatory lesions within the breast are associated with local NF-κB activation, increased aromatase activity, and elevation of pro-inflammatory mediators (TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, and COX-2-derived PGE2)—factors involved in multiple pathways of breast cancer development and progression. There is also substantial evidence from epidemiologic studies that CLS-B are associated with greater adiposity among breast cancer patients. However, there is insufficient evidence that CLS-B impact breast cancer risk or prognosis. Comparisons across studies of prognosis were complicated by differences in CLS-B evaluation and deficiencies in study design, which future studies should take into consideration. Breast adipose tissue inflammation provides a plausible explanation for the obesity–breast cancer association, but further study is needed to establish its role and whether markers such as CLS-B are clinically useful.
Diagnostic Performances of the ACR-TIRADS System in Thyroid Nodules Triage: A Prospective Single Center Study
Authors: Leni Davide , Seminati Davide , Fior Davide , Vacirca Francesco , Capitoli Giulia , Cazzaniga Laura , Di Bella Camillo , L’Imperio Vincenzo , Galimberti Stefania , Pagni Fabio
Published: May 2021

Ultrasound scores are used to determine whether thyroid nodules should undergo Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) or simple clinical follow-up. Different scores have been proposed for this task, with the American College of Radiology (ACR) TIRADS system being one of the most widely used. This study evaluates its ability in triaging thyroid nodules deserving FNA on a large prospective monocentric Italian case series of 493 thyroid nodules from 448 subjects. In ACR 1–2, cytology never prompted a surgical indication. In 59% of cases classified as TIR1c-TIR2, the FNA procedure could be ancillary, according to the ACR-TIRADS score. A subset (37.9%) of cases classified as TIR4-5 would not undergo FNA, according to the dimensional thresholds used by the ACR-TIRADS. Applying the ACR score, a total of 46.5% thyroid nodules should be studied with FNA. The ACR system demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 58.9% and 59% in the identification of patients with cytology ≥TIR3A, with a particularly high false negative rate for ACR classes ≥3 (44.8%, 43/96), which would dramatically decrease (7.3%, 7/96) if the dimensional criteria were not taken into account. In ACR 3–4–5, a correspondence with the follow-up occurred in 60.3%, 50.2% and 51.9% of cases. The ACR-TIRADS is a useful risk stratification tool for thyroid nodules, although the current dimensional thresholds could lead to an underestimation of malignant lesions. Their update might be considered in future studies to increase the screening performances of the system.
Preparation of MgCl2-Supported Ziegler-Natta Catalysts via New Surfactants Emulsion for Propylene Polymerization
Authors: Wu Yansong , Li Jian , Ding Wei , Jiang Tao
Published: May 2021

This article describes a MgCl2-supported Ziegler-Natta catalyst for propylene polymerization prepared via an in situ emulsion technique with new surfactants. The effect of preparation conditions such as the TiCl4/toluene molar ratio, TiCl4-contacting temperature, amount of phthaloyl dichloride, stirring rate, mixing time of TiCl4/toluene with the Mg complex, and the n-butyl chloride loading was investigated in detail. Scanning electron microscopy and laser particle size analyzer measurements showed that the catalyst particles exhibit a perfectly spherical shape, narrow particle size distribution, and low fine powder content. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry indicated that the Ti, Mg, and Cl elements were evenly distributed throughout the particles. Powder X-ray diffraction measurements indicated the presence of δ-MgCl2 in the catalyst, and FTIR and GC-MS studies confirmed the presence of in situ formed di(ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP). Bulk polymerization of propylene using the catalyst was studied, and it was found that the catalyst displayed high activity, high bulk density with high stereospecificity, and excellent hydrogen sensitivity. The polymer produced by the catalyst has a narrow particle size distribution with a low fine powder content.
Mixing Cells for Vascularized Kidney Regeneration
Authors: Namestnikov Michael , Pleniceanu Oren , Dekel Benjamin
Published: May 2021

The worldwide rise in prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) demands innovative bio-medical solutions for millions of kidney patients. Kidney regenerative medicine aims to replenish tissue which is lost due to a common pathological pathway of fibrosis/inflammation and rejuvenate remaining tissue to maintain sufficient kidney function. To this end, cellular therapy strategies devised so far utilize kidney tissue-forming cells (KTFCs) from various cell sources, fetal, adult, and pluripotent stem-cells (PSCs). However, to increase engraftment and potency of the transplanted cells in a harsh hypoxic diseased environment, it is of importance to co-transplant KTFCs with vessel forming cells (VFCs). VFCs, consisting of endothelial cells (ECs) and mesenchymal stem-cells (MSCs), synergize to generate stable blood vessels, facilitating the vascularization of self-organizing KTFCs into renovascular units. In this paper, we review the different sources of KTFCs and VFCs which can be mixed, and report recent advances made in the field of kidney regeneration with emphasis on generation of vascularized kidney tissue by cell transplantation.