bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hip geometry in hip fracture patients in Greenland occurring over a 7.7-year period
Authors: Fleischer Inuuteq , Laursen Mogens , Andersen Stig
Published: May 2021

Background

Hip geometry influences hip fracture risk. Hip fractures are common, and they are associated with pain, disability, premature death and marked costs on society. Osteoporotic fractures are frequent in Arctic populations and increase with advancing age in this society with a steep rise in life expectancy. Greenland Inuit is a distinct ethnic group, and data on hip geometry is missing. We thus aimed to describe hip geometry in 7.7 years of consecutive hip fracture patients in Greenland.

Methods

We evaluated collodiaphysial angle, femoral neck length, the outer and inner diameter of the femur at 2 and 5 centimetres below the centre of the lesser trochanter and the cortical thickness from pelvic and hip radiographs in all patients operated in Greenland over 7.7 years. We included all 84 patients with one non-fractured hip visible for geometric analysis. Analyses were conducted in duplicate.

Results

We found a collodiaphysial angle of 134.8/132.6o in men/women (p = 0.06) and a femoral neck length of 38.0/33.9 mm in men/women (p = 0.001). Cortical thickness was affected by sex in the adjusted analysis (p < 0.001). Cortical thickness index at 5 cm below the centre of the lesser trochanter decreased with age (p = 0.026) and may be influenced by height (2 cm below the centre of the lesser trochanter, p = 0.053).

Conclusion

Our findings differed from European data and suggest a delicate balance in hip geometry in Arctic populations. Ethnic peculiarities influence the structure of the hip and may influence fracture risk. A focus on hip geometry and risk factors for osteoporotic fractures in Arctic populations is warranted.
The interrelationship between pregnancy, venous thromboembolism, and thyroid disease: a hypothesis-generating review
Authors: Andersen Stine Linding , Nielsen Kasper Krogh , Kristensen Søren Risom
Published: May 2021

Pregnancy induces physiological changes that affect the risk of thrombosis and thyroid disease. In this hypothesis-generating review, the physiological changes in the coagulation system and in thyroid function during a normal pregnancy are described, and the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and thyroid disease in and after a pregnancy are compared and discussed. Furthermore, evidence regarding the association between thyroid disease and VTE in non-pregnant individuals is scrutinized. In conclusion, a normal pregnancy entails hormonal changes, which influence the onset of VTE and thyroid disease. Current evidence suggests an association between thyroid disease and VTE in non-pregnant individuals. This review proposes the hypothesis that maternal thyroid disease associates with VTE in pregnant women and call for future research studies on this subject. If an association exists in pregnant women specifically, such findings may have clinical implications regarding strategies for thyroid function testing and potential thromboprophylaxis in selected individuals.
The role of epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of gene expression in the cyclical endometrium
Authors: Retis-Resendiz Alejandra Monserrat , González-García Ixchel Nayeli , León-Juárez Moisés , Camacho-Arroyo Ignacio , Cerbón Marco , Vázquez-Martínez Edgar Ricardo
Published: May 2021

Background

The human endometrium is a highly dynamic tissue whose function is mainly regulated by the ovarian steroid hormones estradiol and progesterone. The serum levels of these and other hormones are associated with three specific phases that compose the endometrial cycle: menstrual, proliferative, and secretory. Throughout this cycle, the endometrium exhibits different transcriptional networks according to the genes expressed in each phase. Epigenetic mechanisms are crucial in the fine-tuning of gene expression to generate such transcriptional networks. The present review aims to provide an overview of current research focused on the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate gene expression in the cyclical endometrium and discuss the technical and clinical perspectives regarding this topic.

Main body

The main epigenetic mechanisms reported are DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, and non-coding RNAs. These epigenetic mechanisms induce the expression of genes associated with transcriptional regulation, endometrial epithelial growth, angiogenesis, and stromal cell proliferation during the proliferative phase. During the secretory phase, epigenetic mechanisms promote the expression of genes associated with hormone response, insulin signaling, decidualization, and embryo implantation. Furthermore, the global content of specific epigenetic modifications and the gene expression of non-coding RNAs and epigenetic modifiers vary according to the menstrual cycle phase. In vitro and cell type-specific studies have demonstrated that epithelial and stromal cells undergo particular epigenetic changes that modulate their transcriptional networks to accomplish their function during decidualization and implantation.

Conclusion and perspectives

Epigenetic mechanisms are emerging as key players in regulating transcriptional networks associated with key processes and functions of the cyclical endometrium. Further studies using next-generation sequencing and single-cell technology are warranted to explore the role of other epigenetic mechanisms in each cell type that composes the endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. The application of this knowledge will definitively provide essential information to understand the pathological mechanisms of endometrial diseases, such as endometriosis and endometrial cancer, and to identify potential therapeutic targets and improve women’s health.
Brain connectivity and metacognition in persons with subjective cognitive decline (COSCODE): rationale and study design
Authors: Ribaldi Federica , Chicherio Christian , Altomare Daniele , Martins Marta , Tomczyk Szymon , Jelescu Ileana , Maturana Enrique , Scheffler Max , Haller Sven , Lövblad Karl-Olof , Pievani Michela , Garibotto Valentina , Kliegel Matthias , Frisoni Giovanni B.
Published: May 2021

Background

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is the subjective perception of a decline in memory and/or other cognitive functions in the absence of objective evidence. Some SCD individuals however may suffer from very early stages of neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s disease, AD), minor psychiatric conditions, neurological, and/or somatic comorbidities. Even if a theoretical framework has been established, the etiology of SCD remains far from elucidated. Clinical observations recently lead to the hypothesis that individuals with incipient AD may have overestimated metacognitive judgements of their own cognitive performance, while those with psychiatric disorders typically present underestimated metacognitive judgements. Moreover, brain connectivity changes are known correlates of AD and psychiatric conditions and might be used as biomarkers to discriminate SCD individuals of different etiologies. The aim of the COSCODE study is to identify metacognition, connectivity, behavioral, and biomarker profiles associated with different etiologies of SCD. Here we present its rationale and study design.

Methods

COSCODE is an observational, longitudinal (4 years), prospective clinical cohort study involving 120 SCD, and 80 control study participants (40 individuals with no cognitive impairment, and 40 living with mild cognitive impairment - MCI, or dementia due to AD), all of which will undergo diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as well as behavioral and biomarker assessments at baseline and after 1 and 2 years. Both hypothesis-driven and data-driven cluster analysis approaches will be used to identify SCD sub-types based on metacognition, connectivity, behavioral, and biomarker features.

Conclusion

COSCODE will allow defining and interpreting the constellation of signs and symptoms associated with different etiologies of SCD, paving the way to the development of cost-effective risk assessment and prevention protocols.
Hydrogel spacer shrinkage during external-beam radiation therapy following low-dose-rate brachytherapy for high-risk prostate cancer: a case series
Authors: Kubo Katsumaro , Kenjo Masahiro , Kawabata Hideo , Wadasaki Koichi , Kajiwara Mitsuru , Doi Yoshiko , Nakao Minoru , Miura Hideharu , Ozawa Shuichi , Nagata Yasushi
Published: May 2021

Background

Few studies have assessed hydrogel spacer shrinkage during external-beam radiation therapy following brachytherapy for localized high-risk prostate cancer. This case presentation evaluated the changes in hydrogel spacer appearance by magnetic resonance imaging during external-beam radiation therapy after brachytherapy for prostate cancer and analyzed the effect of this shrinkage on the dose distribution in four cases.

Case presentation

In all cases, we implanted125I sources using a modified peripheral loading pattern for seed placement. The prescribed dose for each implant was 110 Gy. After delivering the sources, a hydrogel spacer was injected. All cases underwent external-beam radiation therapy approximately 1–2 months after brachytherapy. The prescribed dose of external-beam radiation therapy was 45 Gy in 1.8-Gy fractions. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed for evaluation on the day following seed implantation (baseline), at external-beam radiation therapy planning, and during external-beam radiation therapy. The median hydrogel spacer volume was 16.2 (range 10.9–17.7) cc at baseline, 14.4 (range, 9.4–16.1) cc at external-beam radiation therapy planning, and 7.1 (range, 2.0–11.4) cc during external-beam radiation therapy. The hydrogel spacer volume during external-beam radiation therapy was significantly lower than that at external-beam radiation therapy planning. The rectum V60–80 (rectal volume receiving at least 60–80% of the prescribed dose of external-beam radiation therapy) during external-beam radiation therapy was significantly higher than that at external-beam radiation therapy planning.

Conclusions

The potential reduction in hydrogel spacer size during external-beam radiation therapy following brachytherapy can lead to unexpected irradiation to the rectum. This case presentation would be helpful for similar cases.
Cloning and expression of the EsxA gene and the growth-promoting effects of the encoded protein on rice seedlings
Authors: Yu Wen-qing , Wang Xin , Tang Yi-cong , Yan Feng-chao , Liu Wen-zhi , Zheng Gui-ping , Yin Dong-mei
Published: May 2021

An EsxA-encoding gene (esxA) was previously identified in the genome of the plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium Paenibacillus terrae strain NK3-4. The esxA was cloned and expressed in Pichia pastoris, after which the effects of the EsxA protein on rice seedling growth were analyzed to determine whether EsxA contributes to the plant growth-promoting activity of strain NK3-4. The esxA was successfully cloned from the NK3-4 genome and ligated to the eukaryotic expression vector pPICZαA. The resulting pPICZαA-esxA recombinant plasmid was transinfected into yeast cells, and esxA expression in the yeast cells was confirmed. The treatment of seed- buds with the EsxA protein increased the root length by 1.35-times, but decreased the bud length. Additionally, in rice seedlings treated with EsxA, the root and shoot lengths increased by 2.6- and 1.7-times, respectively. These findings imply that EsxA is important for the promotion of rice plant growth by P. terrae strain NK3-4. Furthermore, the construction of the esxA expression vector and the engineered strain may be useful for future investigations of the mechanism underlying the plant growth-promoting effects of EsxA, with implications for the application of EsxA for regulating plant growth.
Seed biostimulant Bacillus sp. MGW9 improves the salt tolerance of maize during seed germination
Authors: Li Heqin , Yue Haiwang , Li Li , Liu Yu , Zhang Haiyan , Wang Jianhua , Jiang Xuwen
Published: May 2021

Crop performance is seriously affected by high salt concentrations in soils. To develop improved seed pre-sowing treatment technologies, it is crucial to improve the salt tolerance of seed germination. Here, we isolated and identified the strain Bacillus sp. MGW9 and developed the seed biostimulant MGW9. The effects of seed biopriming with the seed biostimulant MGW9 in maize (Zea mays L.) under saline conditions were studied. The results show that the strain Bacillus sp. MGW9 has characteristics such as salt tolerance, nitrogen fixation, phosphorus dissolution, and indole-3-acetic acid production. Seed biopriming with the seed biostimulant MGW9 enhanced the performance of maize during seed germination under salinity stress, improving the germination energy, germination percentage, shoot/seedling length, primary root length, shoot/seedling fresh weight, shoot/seedling dry weight, root fresh weight and root dry weight. Seed biostimulant MGW9 biopriming also alleviated the salinity damage to maize by improving the relative water content, chlorophyll content, proline content, soluble sugar content, root activity, and activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase, while decreasing the malondialdehyde content. In particular, the field seedling emergence of maize seeds in saline-alkali soil can be improved by biopriming with the seed biostimulant MGW9. Therefore, maize seed biopriming with the seed biostimulant MGW9 could be an effective approach to overcoming the inhibitory effects of salinity stress and promoting seed germination and seedling growth.
Stability of an HTLV-HIV coinfection model with multiple delays and CTL-mediated immunity
Authors: AlShamrani N. H.
Published: May 2021

In the literature, several mathematical models have been formulated and developed to describe the within-host dynamics of either human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) monoinfections. In this paper, we formulate and analyze a novel within-host dynamics model of HTLV-HIV coinfection taking into consideration the response of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). The uninfected$\mathrm{CD} 4^{+}\mathrm{T}$CD4+Tcells can be infected via HIV by two mechanisms, free-to-cell and infected-to-cell. On the other hand, the HTLV-I has two modes for transmission, (i) horizontal, via direct infected-to-cell touch, and (ii) vertical, by mitotic division of active HTLV-infected cells. It is well known that the intracellular time delays play an important role in within-host virus dynamics. In this work, we consider six types of distributed-time delays. We investigate the fundamental properties of solutions. Then, we calculate the steady states of the model in terms of threshold parameters. Moreover, we study the global stability of the steady states by using the Lyapunov method. We conduct numerical simulations to illustrate and support our theoretical results. In addition, we discuss the effect of multiple time delays on stability of the steady states of the system.
An unusual case of chest wall glomus tumor presenting with axillary pain: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zanjani Leila Oryadi , Shafiee Nia Bahman , Vosoughi Farzad , Mirzaian Elham , Aghaghazvini Leila , Arabzadeh Aidin
Published: May 2021

Background

Glomus tumor is an uncommon soft tissue tumor. However, as the tumor causes significant disability, its early diagnosis is essential. It involves subungual areas of fingers and toes in most cases, and its extra-digital involvement is rarely seen. To the best of the authors' knowledge, only a few chest wall involvement cases have been reported in the literature.

Case presentation

In this paper, we describe a 63-year-old patient with a chest wall glomus tumor presenting with axillary paroxysmal pain and limitation in his shoulder range of motion that had been missed for nearly 15 years. His symptoms were relieved immediately following surgical excision.

Conclusion

Glomus tumors may involve any part of the human body. It is curable with surgical excision in most cases. Therefore, a correct early diagnosis has paramount importance. A high index of suspicion is needed for early diagnosis, especially when the tumor involves uncommon anatomic areas.
Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum isolates lacking the histidine rich protein 2 gene among symptomatic malaria patients in Kwilu Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Munyeku Yannick Bazitama , Musaka Alain Abera , Ernest Medard , Smith Chris , Mansiangi Paul Mankadi , Culleton Richard
Published: May 2021

Background

Malaria rapid diagnostic tests have become a primary and critical tool for malaria diagnosis in malaria-endemic countries where Plasmodium falciparum Histidine Rich Protein 2-based rapid diagnostic tests (PfHRP2-based RDTs) are widely used. However, in the last decade, the accuracy of PfHRP2-based RDTs has been challenged by the emergence of P. falciparum strains harbouring deletions of the P. falciparum histidine rich protein 2 (pfhrp2) gene, resulting in false-negative results. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R. Congo), little is known about the prevalence of the pfhrp2 gene deletion among P. falciparum isolates infecting symptomatic patients, especially in low to moderate transmission areas where pfhrp2 deletion parasites are assumed to emerge and spread. Here we determine the local prevalence and factors associated with pfhrp2 gene deletions among symptomatic malaria patients in the Kwilu Province of the D.R. Congo.

Methods

We used secondary data from a prospective health facility-based cross-sectional study conducted in 2018. Blood was collected for microscopy, PfHRP2-RDT, and spotted onto Whatman filter paper for downstream genetic analysis. Genomic DNA was extracted and used to perform PCR assays for the detection and confirmation of pfhrp2 gene deletions. Fischer’s exact and the Kruskal–Wallis tests were applied to look for associations between potential explanatory variables and the pfhrp2 gene deletion with a level of statistical significance set at P < 0.05.

Results

Of the 684 enrolled symptomatic patients, 391 (57.7%) were female. The majority (87.7%) reported the presence of mosquito breeding sites within the household’s compound, and fever was the most reported symptom (81.6%). The overall prevalence of the pfhrp2 gene deletion was 9.2% (95% CI: 6.7%–12.1%). The deletion of the pfhrp2 gene was associated with health zone of origin (P = 0.012) and age (P = 0.019). Among false-negative PfHRP2-RDT results, only 9.9% were due to pfhrp2 gene deletion.

Conclusions

P. falciparum isolates with pfhrp2 gene deletions are relatively common among symptomatic patients in Kwilu province. Further investigations are needed to provide enough evidence for policy change. Meanwhile, the use of RDTs targeting PfHRP2 and parasite lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) antigens could limit the spread of deleted isolates.

Graphic Abstract
Humic substances from green compost increase bioactivity and antibacterial properties of essential oils in Basil leaves
Authors: Verrillo Mariavittoria , Cozzolino Vincenza , Spaccini Riccardo , Piccolo Alessandro
Published: May 2021

Background

The Essential oils (EOs) are important bioactive secondary metabolites of aromatic plants, such as Basil, and find extensive utilization in pharmaceutical sector as therapeutic agents. A more eco-friendly industrial production of EOs requires new sustainable methods to improve yield and quality of these bioactive compounds in aromatic plants. Here, we evaluated the biostimulation effects of natural organic materials, such as humic substances (HS) extracted from a humified green compost made with artichoke biomasses.

Results

The molecular characteristics of HS from green compost were determined by 13C-CPMAS NMR spectroscopy and offline pyrolysis–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and combined to the bioactivity of the EOs extracts to investigate the structural–activity relationship. Basil plants were grown under HS treatments at different concentrations and the yield, the chemical composition and the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties were determined for EOs extracted by steam distillation method from Basil leaves. HS showed a positive effect on total extraction yield of the most bioactive EO components, with a progressive enhancement of abundance for eugenol, eucalyptol and geranyl acetate with increasing HS concentrations. Humic biostimulation influenced the EOs antioxidant proprieties, as well as their antimicrobial activity against some common Gram-negative bacterial strains such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. The HS biostimulation of Basil plants was associated to their structural hydrophobic characteristics that may have favoured the interactions with the Basil rhizome and to specific bioactive molecular components, such as a lignin-derived phenols and polar saccharidic and aminoacidic compounds.

Conclusions

Our results support the potential use of humic substances from green compost as promising effective biostimulants to improve the production and bioactive properties of EOs in aromatic plants.

Graphic Abstract
Campaigning across continents: how Latin American parties link up with migrant associations abroad
Authors: Fliess Nicolas
Published: May 2021

Emigrant voting rights have opened new electoral arenas, and many political parties increasingly campaign across borders. Yet relatively little is known about the challenges parties confront when campaigning transnationally and the strategies they have developed in response to these challenges. This paper addresses these shortcomings. First, I investigate the hurdles Latin American parties face in linking up with organized migrant collectives in residency countries for campaigning purposes. Second, I probe into the transnational linkage strategies these parties deploy to tap into migrant associations’ resources and mobilization capacities. This study builds on a comparative research design and draws on almost 40 semi-structured interviews with Bolivian and Ecuadorian party activists as well as association leaders in Barcelona, Spain. Departing from the party interest group literature, I identify three transnational linkage strategies Bolivian and Ecuadorian parties implement: 1) Infiltration, 2) Co-optation, and 3) Cooperation. All parties execute these tactics informally in order to comply with local norms that require associations to remain apolitical. The analysis further demonstrates that differences between home-country electoral systems shape the types of linkage strategies Bolivian and Ecuadorian parties use. This article contributes to the study of migrant politics and political parties in important ways. This study highlights how political parties actively negotiate their entry into the transnational electoral arena, and sheds light on how migrants remain politically connected to their home countries.
Unilateral acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy in a convalescent COVID-19 patient
Authors: Olguín-Manríquez Francisco , Cernichiaro-Espinosa Linda , Olguín-Manríquez Arturo , Manríquez-Arias Rebeca , Flores-Villalobos Erick Omar , Kawakami-Campos Perla Ayumi
Published: May 2021

Background

To report a case of unilateral acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy (APMPPE) in a Hispanic convalescent COVID-19 female patient.

Case presentation

A 35-year-old Hispanic female with exposure to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was evaluated due to unilateral visual loss. Ophthalmic examination and diagnostic tests were consistent with APMPPE.

Discussion

Ocular changes can be observed in patients with COVID-19. A complete ophthalmic evaluation must be performed in patients with low vision after SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Production of scandium radionuclides for theranostic applications: towards standardization of quality requirements
Authors: Mikolajczak R. , Huclier-Markai S. , Alliot C. , Haddad F. , Szikra D. , Forgacs V. , Garnuszek P.
Published: May 2021

In the frame of “precision medicine”, the scandium radionuclides have recently received considerable interest, providing personalised adjustment of radiation characteristics to optimize the efficiency of medical care or therapeutic benefit for particular groups of patients. Radionuclides of scandium, namely scandium-43 and scandium-44 (43/44Sc) as positron emitters and scandium-47 (47Sc), beta-radiation emitter, seem to fit ideally into the concept of theranostic pair. This paper aims to review the work on scandium isotopes production, coordination chemistry, radiolabeling, preclinical studies and the very first clinical studies. Finally, standardized procedures for scandium-based radiopharmaceuticals have been proposed as a basis to pave the way for elaboration of the Ph.Eur. monographs for perspective scandium radionuclides.
Morpho-meristics, maturity stages, GSI and gonadal hormone plasticity of African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822) that invaded into the Ganga River, India
Authors: Singh Atul K. , Ansari Abubakar , Srivastava Sharad C.
Published: May 2021

Background

African catfish Clarias gariepinus introduced to India has gravitated into the Ganga River as an invasive species. Morphological plasticity and reproductive adaptation are considered and reported as important manifestation contributing to evolution and persistence of an invasive species in the novel environment facilitating its expansion and establishment. African catfish in the Ganga River although documented to exist, it is yet to investigate if it elicits adaptation responses through morphological and reproductive plasticity in the riverine conditions. Therefore, morpho-meristic changes, plasticity in the reproductive stages, gonadosomatic index (GSI) and gonadal hormones were examined in C. gariepinus that invaded into the Ganga River so as to ascertain its invasion success.

Results

Out of 23 morpho-meristic characters examined, head length (HL), head depth (HD), anal fin length (AFL) and the pectoral fin rays (PECFR) were observed to differ significantly (p<0.05). The correlation coefficient ‘r’ between log length and log weight was found to be 0.9690 in culture and 0.8754 in river-caught specimens respectively. A distinct deviation in the maturity stages, GSI as well as gonadal hormones (testosterone, estradiol 17-β and vitellogenin) was further observed to change significantly in specimens of African catfish captured from the Ganga River as compared to those available in culture. Highest level of testosterone was found in males having gonadal stage V which was 184.82±10.4 pg/ml in culture and 204.82±21.34 pg/ml in river-captured specimens. The mean value of serum estradiol-17β was lowest (67.25±11.4 pg/ml) in gonadal maturity stage I and highest (328.73±24.5 pg/ml) in stage V in the river-captured C. gariepinus. The vitellogenin level in female C. gariepinus was detected in stage III, and it was maximum in stage V where it was 16.68±2.98 pg/ml in river-captured specimens and 12.63±2.12 pg/ml in cultured fish.

Conclusion

The results of this study on morpho-meristic and gonadal plasticity provide first evidence of invasion success of the African catfish gravitated in the Ganga River which has now adapted to the river environments for breeding and establishing. The variations concerning different reproductive phases and the gonadal hormones in culture and river-caught C. gariepinus have been considered to contribute to the success of the colonisation and establishment. The knowledge generated on the phenotypic and reproductive plasticity of African catfish available in the Ganga River will help management and control programmes.
Determinants of quality of life changes with plasmapheresis in patients with myasthenia gravis
Authors: Al-Ahmer Ibraheim , Elshony Hosna
Published: May 2021

Background

Immunomodulation, including IVIG and plasma exchange, is useful for a crisis or severe exacerbation. Plasma exchange may be slightly faster and more effective in a myasthenic crisis than IVIG. The aim of the current study was to determine the changes in the quality of life (QOL) after plasmapheresis and factors influencing these changes.

Results

This study was conducted on 98 MG patients diagnosed as moderate to severe myasthenia gravis (according to Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America classification), 81 patients received alternate day 5 sessions plasmapheresis (TPE group) and 17 patients were on medical treatment only (control group). All patients were subjected to full history, through clinical neurological evaluation and scored with quantitative myasthenia gravis (QMG) score for MG severity at start and after 1 m. Both groups completed the QOL questionnaire at baseline and after 1 month. The MG-QOL-15 scores were computed and we analyzed the change in the QOL scores from baseline to after plasmapheresis groups and compared it with the results for the control group. The scores in QOL scales had significantly decreased after plasmapheresis, and the improvement in QOL scores had a good correlation with the decrease in QMGS. The improvement in QOL and QMG was significantly correlated with younger age, female gender, shorter duration of the illness, presence of AchR antibodies, antibody titer, and thymus hyperplasia.

Conclusion

Plasmapheresis is effective in improving quality of life in myasthenia gravis patients and this improvement influenced by age, gender, duration of illness, presence of AchR antibodies and their titer, and the thymus pathology.
Overview of therapeutic applications of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation: a motivation for novel treatments for systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ramkissoon Charrise M. , Güemes Amparo , Vehi Josep
Published: May 2021

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder that commonly affects the skin, joints, kidneys, and central nervous system. Although great progress has been made over the years, patients still experience unfavorable secondary effects from medications, increased economic burden, and higher mortality rates compared to the general population. To alleviate these current problems, non-invasive, non-pharmacological interventions are being increasingly investigated. One such intervention is non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation, which promotes the upregulation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that reduces the activation and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, culpable processes in autoimmune diseases such as SLE. This review first provides a background on the important contribution of the autonomic nervous system to the pathogenesis of SLE. The gross and structural anatomy of the vagus nerve and its contribution to the inflammatory response are described afterwards to provide a general understanding of the impact of stimulating the vagus nerve. Finally, an overview of current clinical applications of invasive and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation for a variety of diseases, including those with similar symptoms to the ones in SLE, is presented and discussed. Overall, the review presents neuromodulation as a promising strategy to alleviate SLE symptoms and potentially reverse the disease.
Longitudinal Associations of Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity with Quality of Life in Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Authors: KENKHUIS MARLOU FLOOR , VAN ROEKEL ELINE H. , BREEDVELD-PETERS JOSÉ J. L. , BREUKINK STÉPHANIE O. , JANSSEN-HEIJNEN MARYSKA L. G. , KEULEN ERIC T. P. , VAN DUIJNHOVEN FRÄNZEL J. B. , MOLS FLOORTJE , WEIJENBERG MATTY P. , BOURS MARTIJN J. L.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Given the growing population of colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors, identifying ways to enhance health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and alleviate complaints of fatigue and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is essential.

Purpose

We aimed to assess longitudinal associations of sedentary behavior (SB) and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) independently, as well as their joint association, with HRQoL, fatigue, and CIPN in CRC survivors.

Methods

In a prospective cohort among stage I–stage III CRC survivors (n = 396), five repeated home visits from diagnosis up to 24 months posttreatment were executed. SB was measured using triaxial accelerometers, and MVPA, HRQoL, fatigue, and CIPN were measured by validated questionnaires. We applied confounder-adjusted linear mixed models to analyze longitudinal associations from 6 wk until 24 months posttreatment.

Results

Average time in prolonged SB (accumulated in bouts of duration ≥30 min) was 5.3 ± 2.7 h·d−1, and approximately 82% of survivors were classified as sufficiently active (≥150 min·wk−1 of MVPA) at 6 wk posttreatment. Decreases in SB and increases in MVPA were independently associated with better HRQoL and less fatigue over time. No associations were found for CIPN complaints. A synergistic interaction was observed between prolonged SB and MVPA in affecting functioning scales. Relative to CRC survivors with low prolonged SB and high MVPA, survivors with high prolonged SB and low MVPA reported a stronger decrease in physical functioning and role functioning over time than expected based on the independent associations of prolonged SB and MVPA.

Conclusion

Our longitudinal results show that less SB and more MVPA are beneficial for CRC survivors’ HRQoL and fatigue levels. Our findings regarding interaction underscore that joint recommendations to avoid prolonged sitting and accumulate MVPA are important.
Ain’t Just Imagination! Effects of Motor Imagery Training on Strength and Power Performance of Athletes during Detraining
Authors: DELLO IACONO ANTONIO , ASHCROFT KURTIS , ZUBAC DAMIR
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effects of motor imagery (MI) training on strength and power performances of professional athletes during a period of detraining caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods

Thirty male professional basketball players (age, 26.1 ± 6.2 yr) were randomly assigned to three counterbalanced groups: two MI training groups, who completed imagery training by mentally rehearsing upper and lower limb resistance training exercises loaded with either 85% of one repetition maximum (85%1RM) or optimum power loads (OPL), or a control group. For six consecutive weeks, although all groups completed two weekly sessions of high-intensity running, only the MI groups performed three additional MI sessions a week. Maximal strength and power output were measured through 1RM and OPL assessments in the back squat and bench press exercises with a linear positioning transducer. Vertical jump and throwing capabilities were assessed with the countermovement jump and the seated medicine ball throw tests, respectively. Kinesthetic and visual imagery questionnaires, and chronometry and rating of perceived effort scores were collected to evaluate MI vividness, MI ability, and perceived effort.

Results

Physical performances improved significantly following both MI protocols (range, ~2% to ~9%), but were reduced in the control group, compared with preintervention (P ≤ 0.016). Moreover, interactions (time–protocol) were identified between the two MI groups (P ≤ 0.001). Whereas the 85%1RM led to greater effects on maximal strength measures than the OPL, the latter induced superior responses on measures of lower limb power. These findings were mirrored by corresponding cognitive and psychophysiological responses.

Conclusions

During periods of forced detraining, MI practice seems to be a viable tool to maintain and increase physical performance capacity among professional athletes.
Η μορφή του Χριστού στα εικονογραφημένα χειρόγραφα του Αγίου Όρους
Authors: Κουρουζίδης Χριστόφορος
Published: May 2021

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή επιδιώκει να εξετάσει τη μορφή του Χριστού στα εικονογραφημένα χειρόγραφα του Αγίου Όρους, από τον 9ο αιώνα έως το 1204 μ.Χ. Αρχικά εξετάστηκαν όλοι οι κώδικες των ιερών μονών, για να εντοπιστεί η μορφή του Χριστού. Επιχειρήθηκε κατηγοριοποίηση ως προς το θέμα της κάθε εικόνας και μετά ως προς το είδος της κάθε μικρογραφίας. Στη συνέχεια έγινε κατάταξη συνολικά κάθε κώδικα ανά περίοδο που δημιουργήθηκε. Επιπλέον έγινε ανάλυση συγκεκριμένων τύπων του Χριστού που βρέθηκαν στα εικονογραφημένα χειρόγραφα. Στο τέλος, εξετάστηκαν συνολικά ως προς τη μορφή του Χριστού, τα είδη της μικρογραφίας, οι πηγές των εικονογραφικών θεμάτων, το περιεχόμενο και η θεματολογία των κωδίκων και οι εικονογραφικοί τύποι.
Von Befestigungen und Grossbaustellen
Authors: Hagendorn Andrea , Stegmüller Christian , Stelzle-Hüglin Sophie , Alder Cornelia , Doppler Thomas , Keller Daniel , Pümpin Christine , Rentzel Philippe
Published: May 2021

Die Ausgrabung fand im praktisch nicht überbauten Hofareal statt. Die Kulturschichten waren hier ausserordentlich gut erhalten und hatten eine durchschnittliche Mächtigkeit von fast 3 Metern.

Die Ränder des an der nördlichen Spitze des Basler Münsterhügels gelegenen Martinskirchsporns fallen steil zu Rhein und Birsig hin ab. Aufgrund der natürlichen Schutzlage wurde dieser Teil des Plateaus bereits in der späten Bronzezeit (um 1200-800 v. Chr.) zur Befestigung ausgebaut. Kontinuierlich bis heute besiedelt wurde der Basler Münsterhügel jedoch erst ab der Spätlatenezeit (ca. 80/70 v. Chr.)

Auf der Ausgrabung konnten Zeugnisse aus 3000 Jahren Besiedlungsgeschichte erfasst werden.
A dataset for the analysis of antibody response to glycan alpha-Gal in individuals with immune-mediated disorders
Authors: de la Fuente José , Urra José Miguel , Contreras Marinela , Pacheco Iván , Ferreras-Colino Elisa , Doncel-Pérez Ernesto , Fernández de Mera Isabel G. , Villar Margarita , Cabrera Carmen M. , Gómez Hernando Cesar , Vargas Baquero Eduardo , Blanco García Javier , Rodríguez Gómez Javier , Velayos Galán Alberto , Feo Brito Francisco , Gómez Torrijos Elisa , Cabezas-Cruz Alejandro , Gortázar Christian
Published: May 2021

Humans evolved by losing the capacity to synthesize the glycan Galα1-3Galβ1-(3)4GlcNAc-R (α-Gal), which resulted in the development of a protective response mediated by anti-α-Gal IgM/IgG/IgA antibodies against pathogens containing this modification on membrane proteins. As an evolutionary trade-off, humans can develop the alpha-Gal syndrome (AGS), a recently diagnosed disease mediated by anti-α-Gal IgE antibodies and associated with allergic reactions to mammalian meat consumption and tick bites. However, the anti-α-Gal antibody response may be associated with other immune-mediated disorders such as those occurring in patients with COVID-19 and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). Here, we provide a dataset (209 entries) on the IgE/IgM/IgG/IgA anti-α-Gal antibody response in healthy individuals and patients diagnosed with AGS, tick-borne allergies, GBS and COVID-19. The data allows correlative analyses of the anti-α-Gal antibody response with factors such as patient and clinical characteristics, record of tick bites, blood group, age and sex. These analyses could provide insights into the role of anti-α-Gal antibody response in disease symptomatology and possible protective mechanisms.
Factors Predicting Hospital Readmission among Thais with Post Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Phemphul Chuthaporn , Pansila Wirat , Vibulchai Nisakorn , Wongvipaporn Chaiyasith
Published: May 2021

Background: Readmission after an acute myocardial infarction is not only common and costly but can also impact patients’ quality of life and mortality. This retrospective observational study was conducted to determine the impact of sociodemographic variables, clinical variables, and hospital readmission among post-myocardial infarction patients in Thailand.  Few, if any, previous studies have investigated the factors predicting readmission rates over variable time periods. We aimed to provide such information to prevent readmission in the future. 

Methods: Between October 1, 2014, to September 30, 2018 a total of 376 post-myocardial infarction patients of Roi-Et hospital were recruited for this study. The criteria of data collection concerned the rate of readmission, gender, comorbidities, anaemia, chronic kidney disease, complication, smoking, and type of myocardial infarction. A measurement period was seven-day, 30-day, six-month, and one-year of readmission. Data were analyzed using percentage, mean, standard deviation, and logistic regression analysis.  

Results: The highest readmission rate at six-month, 30-day, seven-day, and one-year was 52.2%, 30.4%, 10.6%, and 6.8%, respectively. None of the predictors were significant for seven-day and one-year of readmissions. Meanwhile, hypertension comorbidity and anaemia were identified as the significant predictors for early 30-day readmission whereas atrial fibrillation complication, chronic kidney disease, and smoking were the significant predictors for late six-month readmission.  

Conclusions: Multiple factors including HT comorbidity, anaemia, atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease, and smoking predict readmission among Thais with post myocardial infarction. This study demonstrated that rates and predictors of readmissions in short-term and long-term periods are different. Therefore, various screening tools and interventions are required.
Bibliographic analysis of Clinacanthus nutans papers in Scopus database (2000–2019)
Authors: Kim Yun Jin , Qian Linchao , Aslam Muhammad Shahzad
Published: May 2021

Background: There has been an increasing trend in Clinacanthus nutans’ research, an important medicinal herb of Malaysia and Thailand, well known as an anti-viral, anti-cancer, and insect bite treatment. This study examines the trend in Clinacanthus nutans’ research from 2000 to 2019 and compares the contribution of research on this topic from different institutions and authors.

Methods: Publications from the Scopus database were retrieved using keywords and identify top ten institutions/universities, list of prominent authors, top ten  journals that published research, top five influential articles, top fifty cited papers, and global distribution of publications on Clinacanthus nutans. Microsoft Excel 2016, Wordcloud, SPSS version 26, and GunnMap 2 were used to analyse indicators. A total of 167 articles were identified from the Scopus database. All research publications were screened initially. Five articles (n=5) were removed due to the unavailability of the full-text version of the article. 162 articles were included in the final study.

Results: Universiti Putra Malaysia and the Journal of Ethnopharmacology published the highest number of articles on Clinacanthus nutans. Herpes, antioxidant, phenolic, flavonoids, cancer, antimicrobial were common keywords identified using a word cloud. Over the past 20 years, the literature on Clinacanthus nutans has continuously grown, with the rate increasing after 2012.

Conclusion: The prominent research on Clinacanthus nutans was based upon their identified and isolated bioactive constituents, and there is a need for more research on clinical trials.
Child development with the D-score: tuning instruments to unity
Authors: Eekhout Iris , van Buuren Stef
Published: May 2021

The chapter familiarises the reader with an intuitive yet powerful methodology to tune instruments to a common unit, presenting a fresh approach that expresses measurements made by different instruments on the D-score scale. As a result, the reader may compare D-scores between ages, children or cohorts. It shows how to exploit common developmental milestones to bridge instruments and cohorts; presents an analysis to obtain D-scores from 16 cohorts and 14 instruments; compares D-score age-distribution across populations from four continents; suggests an indicator for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; and defines developmentally-on-track.
Revealing the extent of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya based on serological and PCR-test data
Authors: Ojal John , Brand Samuel P. C. , Were Vincent , Okiro Emelda A. , Kombe Ivy K. , Mburu Caroline , Aziza Rabia , Ogero Morris , Agweyu Ambrose , Warimwe George M. , Uyoga Sophie , Adetifa Ifedayo M. O. , Scott J. Anthony G. , Otieno Edward , Ochola-Oyier Lynette I. , Agoti Charles N. , Kasera Kadondi , Amoth Patrick , Mwangangi Mercy , Aman Rashid , Ng’ang’a Wangari , Tsofa Benjamin , Bejon Philip , Barasa Edwine , Keeling Matt J. , Nokes D. James
Published: May 2021

Policymakers in Africa need robust estimates of the current and future spread of SARS-CoV-2. We used national surveillance PCR test, serological survey and mobility data to develop and fit a county-specific transmission model for Kenya up to the end of September 2020, which encompasses the first wave of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in the country. We estimate that the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic peaked before the end of July 2020 in the major urban counties, with 30-50% of residents infected. Our analysis suggests, first, that the reported low COVID-19 disease burden in Kenya cannot be explained solely by limited spread of the virus, and second, that a 30-50% attack rate was not sufficient to avoid a further wave of transmission.
A New System for Real-time Video Surveillance in Smart Cities Based on Wireless Visual Sensor Networks and Fog Computing
Authors:   Laboratory of Computer and Systems Engineering (L2IS), Faculty of Science and Techniques, Cadi Ayyad University, 40000 Marrakesh, Morocco, Mosaif Afaf , Rakrak Said
Published: May 2021

Nowadays, public security is becoming an increasingly serious issue in our society and its requirements have been extended from urban centers to all remote areas. Therefore, surveillance and security cameras are being deployed worldwide. Wireless Visual Sensor Networks nodes can be employed as camera nodes to monitor in the city without the need for any cables installation. However, these cameras are constrained in processing, memory, and energy resources. Also, they generate a massive amount of data that must be analyzed in real-time to ensure public safety and deal with emergency situations. As a result, data processing, information fusion, and decision making have to be executed on-site (near to the data collection location). Besides, surveillance cameras are directional sensors, which makes the coverage problem another issue to deal with. Therefore, we present a new system for real-time video surveillance in a smart city, in which transportations equipped with camera nodes are used as the mobile part of the system and an architecture based on fog computing and wireless visual sensor networks is adopted. Furthermore, we propose an approach for selecting the camera nodes that will participate in the tracking process and we simulated three different use cases to test the effectiveness of our system in terms of target detection. The simulation results show that our system is a promising solution for smart city surveillance applications.
A Low-Overhead Multi-Hop Routing Protocol for D2D Communications in 5G
Authors:   Dept. of Computer Science and Engineering, American University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, Ahmed Rana E.
Published: May 2021

Device-to-Device (D2D) communication is designed to offload the traffic on the 5G core networks and backhaul links in an effort to deal with the high volume and variety of data traffic anticipated in 5G networks. D2D communications provide faster and energy-efficient access to the devices within a cell. However, efficient provision of D2D communication presents several challenges, including multi-hop routing to the devices that are not immediate neighbours to each other. Dynamic Source Routing (DSR) is a popular protocol commonly applied to Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANET); however, its direct application in 5G D2D environment is not straightforward. In this paper, a new multi-hop routing protocol for D2D communications in 5G network is proposed. The protocol modifies the conventional DSR protocol and takes advantages of 5G cellular infrastructure to make routing decisions faster. The proposed protocol offers low overhead over the conventional DSR, in terms of the number of control messages exchanged in the D2D communication, thus saving time and energy for the devices during the route discovery process. Simulation results show that the proposed protocol also achieves better results in terms of D2D routing success probability.