bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possibility of COVID-19 eradication with evolution of a new omicron variant
Authors: Okpeku Moses
Published: March 2022

COVID-19 has been a global health concern since 2019 until date. Global concerted efforts to combat this pandemic has resulted in a number of vaccines distributed across the globe. Although the presence of these vaccines produced quick interventions, dynamic mutation in the causal virus and the continuous evolution of new stains that defy available vaccines has given rise to pertinent questions. The most recent emergence of a new COVID-19 virus variant (omicron), the rapid spread and overwhelming rate of morbidity and mortality has reopened these questions for debate. This commentary summarizes major view on these questions and concludes that multiple approach including social behavioural measures, vaccination and antiviral drug would speed up elimination process.

Graphical Abstract
Non-traumatic coma in young children in Benin: are viral and bacterial infections gaining ground on cerebral malaria?
Authors: Brisset Josselin , Angendu Baki Karl , Watier Laurence , Kinkpé Elisée , Bailly Justine , Ayédadjou Linda , Alao Maroufou Jules , Dossou-Dagba Ida , Bertin Gwladys I. , Cot Michel , Boumédiène Farid , Ajzenberg Daniel , Aubouy Agnès , Houzé Sandrine , Faucher Jean-François ,   NeuroCM Group, Affolabi Dissou , Argy Nicolas , Biokou Bibiane , Degbelo Jean-Eudes , Calavi  , Benin  , Deloron Philippe , Dramane Latifou , Fraering Jérémy , Guillochon Emilie , Jafari-Guemouri Sayeh , Houzé Ludivine , Joste Valentin , Kamaliddin Claire , Labrunie Anaïs , Ladipo Yélé , Lathiere Thomas , Massougbodji Achille , Mowendabeka Audrey , Papin Jade , Pipy Bernard , Preux Pierre-Marie , Raymondeau Marie , Royo Jade , Sossou Darius , Techer Brigitte , Vianou Bertin
Published: March 2022

Background

While malaria morbidity and mortality have declined since 2000, viral central nervous system infections appear to be an important, underestimated cause of coma in malaria-endemic Eastern Africa. We aimed to describe the etiology of non-traumatic comas in young children in Benin, as well as their management and early outcomes, and to identify factors associated with death.

Methods

From March to November 2018, we enrolled all HIV-negative children aged between 2 and 6 years, with a Blantyre Coma Score ≤ 2, in this prospective observational study. Children were screened for malaria severity signs and assessed using a systematic diagnostic protocol, including blood cultures, malaria diagnostics, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis using multiplex PCR. To determine factors associated with death, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results

From 3244 admissions, 84 children were included: malaria was diagnosed in 78, eight of whom had a viral or bacterial co-infection. Six children had a non-malarial infection or no identified cause. The mortality rate was 29.8% (25/84), with 20 children dying in the first 24 h. Co-infected children appeared to have a poorer prognosis. Of the 76 children who consulted a healthcare professional before admission, only 5 were prescribed adequate antimalarial oral therapy. Predictors of early death were jaundice or increased bilirubin [odd ratio (OR)= 8.6; 95% confidential interval (CI): 2.03–36.1] and lactate > 5 mmol/L (OR = 5.1; 95% CI: 1.49–17.30). Antibiotic use before admission (OR = 0.1; 95% CI: 0.02–0.85) and vaccination against yellow fever (OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.05–0.79) protected against mortality.

Conclusions

Infections were found in all children who died, and cerebral malaria was by far the most common cause of non-traumatic coma. Missed opportunities to receive early effective antimalarial treatment were common. Other central nervous system infections must be considered in their management. Some factors that proved to be protective against early death were unexpected.
Evaluation of health-related quality of life before and after total hip arthroplasty in the elderly in Iran: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Moarrefzadeh Aida , Sarveazad Arash , Mohammadpour Mehdi , Zareinejad Mohammad , Bahardoust Mansour , Pisoudeh Karim , Asgarian Sara , Shamseddin Jebreil , Semiromi Hasan toghraei
Published: March 2022

Background

Owing to the direct impact of total hip arthroplasty (THA) on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and the higher prevalence of THA in the elderly, this study aimed to compare HRQOL before, and after THA in the Iranian elderly.

Methods

The present prospective cohort study was performed on 161 THA candidates. Demographic data were extracted from records of patients. Before, 6, and 12 months after THA, a Short Form 36 health survey (SF-36) was used to assess HRQOL. Before THA, 6 and 12 months after THA, Physical (PCS), and mental component scores (MCS) were obtained from a hundred separately for each subscale of the questionnaire. The Paired t-test was used to compare HRQOL before and after THA.

Results

Both 6 and 12 months after THA, HRQOL was significantly increased compared to previous THA (P = 0.001). In the first half-year after THA, vitality and emotional state were not different from pre-surgery. However, 12 months after THA, these two subscales also were significantly improved. Although, 6 months after THA, the PCS has dramatically gone up compared to the previous THA (P = 0.012), despite MCS was remained steady. Nonetheless, by comparison with the before surgery, 12 months after THA, MSC notably improved (P = 0.048).

Conclusion

HRQOL was appreciably improved by the THA in the elderly after 12 months. The improvement in HRQoL in the first 6 months after THA is related to the promotion in the physical aspect (PCS score), and in the second 6 months after THA is related to the promotion in the psychological aspect (MCS score).
A systematic review of influenza A virus prevalence and transmission dynamics in backyard swine populations globally
Authors: Chauhan Ravendra P. , Gordon Michelle L.
Published: March 2022

Background

Backyard swine farming is critical to generating subsistence and food security in rural and peri-urban households in several developing countries. The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the molecular and serological prevalence of influenza A virus (IAV) in backyard swine populations globally.

Results

We identified 34 full-text research articles in NCBI-PubMed and Google Scholar databases that have reported IAV sero- and/or virological prevalence in backyard swine up to 11 July 2021. The highest number of studies were reported from Asia (n = 11) followed by North America (n = 10), South America (n = 6), Africa (n = 6), and Europe (n = 1). While the maximum number of studies (44.12%) reported human-to-swine transmission of IAV, swine-to-human (5.88%), poultry-to-swine (5.88%), and wild birds-to-swine (2.94%) transmissions were also reported. An overall higher IAV seroprevalence (18.28%) in backyard swine was detected compared to the virological prevalence (1.32%). The human-origin pandemic A(H1N1)pdm09 virus clade 1A.3.3.2 was the more frequently detected IAV subtype in virological studies (27.27%) than serological studies (18.92%). In addition, the avian-origin highly pathogenic H5N1 and H5N8 viruses were also detected, which further substantiated the evidence of avian–swine interactions in the backyards.

Conclusion

Human–swine and avian–swine interactions in backyards may transmit IAV between species. Monitoring the circulation and evolution of IAV in backyard swine would help stakeholders make informed decisions to ensure sustainable backyard swine farming and public safety.
Study on the influence of different production factors on PSY and its correlation
Authors: Guan Ran , Zhou Xingdong , Cai Hongbo , Qian Xiaorui , Xin Xiaoyu , Li Xiaowen
Published: March 2022

Background

Finding out the key reproductive performance factors, affecting piglets weaned per sow per year (PSY) can improve the production efficiency and profitability of pig farms. The objective was to understand the actual distribution of different production factors and PSY of breeding pig farms, analyze the correlation to find the main production factors affecting PSY, and formulating a Production Efficiency Improvement Plan in practice. Data included 603 breeding pig farms from September 28, 2020 to September 26, 2021. Regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between PSY and key production factors, and the characteristics of total pig farms versus high performance (HP) pig farms (the production performance was in the top 10%) or top 5% pig farms were compared. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between production factors and find the factors related to PSY. Non-linear support vector regression (NL-SVR) was used to analyze the personalized PSY improvement through a various change of the four key factors.

Results

The median distribution of 15 production factors and PSY in total pig farms were different from those of HP farms. All of data were distributed nonlinearly. Mating rate within 7 days after weaning (MR7DW), farrowing rate (FR), number of piglets born alive per litter (PBAL) and number of weaned piglets per litter (WPL) were moderately correlated with PSY, and the correlation coefficients were 0.5058, 0.4427, 0.3929 and 0.3839, respectively. When the four factors in NL-SVR changed in medium (0.5 piglet or 5%) or high level (1.0 piglet or 10%), PSY can be increased by more than 0.5.

Conclusion

NL-SVR model can be used to analyze the impact of changes in key production factors on PSY. By taking measures to improve MR7DW, FR, PBAL and WPL, it may effectively improve the current PSY and fully develop the reproductive potential of sows.
Evaluating the validity of lightweight talar replacement designs: rational models and topologically optimized models
Authors: Kang Yeokyung , Kim Seongjin , Kim Jungsung , Lee Jin Woo , Park Jong-Chul
Published: March 2022

Background

Total talar replacement is normally stable and satisfactory. We studied a rational scaffold talus model for each size range created through topology optimization (TO) and comparatively evaluated a topologically optimized scaffold bone talus model using a finite element analysis (FEA). We hypothesized that the rational scaffold would be more effective for application to the actual model than the topologically optimized scaffold.

Methods

Size specification for the rational model was performed via TO and inner scaffold simplification. The load condition for worst-case selection reflected the peak point according to the ground reaction force tendency, and the load directions “plantar 10°” (P10), “dorsi 5°” (D5), and “dorsi 10°” (D10) were applied to select worst-case scenarios among the P10, D5, and D10 positions (total nine ranges) of respective size specifications. FEA was performed on each representative specification-standard model, reflecting a load of 5340 N. Among the small bone models selected as the worst-case, an arbitrary size was selected, and the validity of the standard model was evaluated. The standard model was applied to the rational structure during validity evaluation, and the TO model reflecting the internal structure derived by the TO of the arbitrary model was implemented.

Result

In worst-case selection, the highest peak von Mises stress (PVMS) was calculated from the minimum D5 model (532.11 MPa). Thereafter, FEA revealed peak von Mises stress levels of 218.01 MPa and 565.35 MPa in the rational and topologically optimized models, respectively, confirming that the rational model yielded lower peak von Mises stress. The weight of the minimum model was reduced from 1106 g to 965.4 g after weight reduction through rational scaffold application.

Conclusion

The rational inner-scaffold-design method is safer than topologically optimized scaffold design, and three types of rational scaffold, according to each size range, confirmed that all sizes of the talus within the anatomical dimension could be covered, which was a valid result in the total talar replacement design. Accordingly, we conclude that an implant design meeting the clinical design requirements, including patient customization, weight reduction, and mechanical stability, should be possible by applying a rational inner scaffold without performing TO design. The scaffold model weight was lower than that of the solid model, and the safety was also verified through FEA.
Macular vessel density before and after panretinal photocoagulation in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Abdelhalim Ahmed Shawkat , Abdelkader Mohamed Farouk Sayed Othman , Mahmoud Mohamed Salah El-Din , Mohamed Mohamed Asmaa Anwar
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is microangiopathy causing ischemia leading to proliferative diabetic retinopathy and macular edema. Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) reverses the ischemia leading to regression of neovessels. Most previous studies showed the large vessel effects of PRP, while optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) allowed noninvasive quantification of microvascular retinal changes.

Aim

To study the effect of PRP on microvascular retinal vessels in a detailed manner at different retinal and choroidal levels using OCTA.

Patients and methods

This study was a prospective interventional study. 30 eyes of 18 diabetic patients with PDR were included. All patients were evaluated clinically and with OCTA (Avanti RTVue-XR system, Optovue) to evaluate superficial and deep vessels density (VDs), choroidal flow, and FAZ area before PRP (base line) and 1 month and 6 months after PRP.

Results

PRP improved vessels density at superficial (SCP), deep (DCP), and choriocapillaris levels. Foveal vessel density at SCP and DCP were statistically significantly increased. SCP was 28.76 ± 2.56 at base line and was increased to 29.84 ± 2.47 and 30.89 ± 2.20 after 1 month and after 6 months, respectively. DCP was 34.08 ± 5.59 at base line and was increased to 34.93 ± 5.66 and 36.09 ± 5.62 after 1 month and after 6 months, respectively. Foveal choriocapillaris was statistically significantly increased from 63.04 ± 2.66 at base line to 63.48 ± 2.65 and 63.98 ± 2.78 after 1 month and 6 months, respectively. Choroidal flow was increased from 1.74 ± 0.07 at base line to 1.75 ± 0.09 at 1 month which was nonsignificant (P = 0.72), but it was significantly increased to 1.87 ± 0.27 6 months after PRP (P = 0.009). FAZ area was significantly improved after PRP. FAZ area was decreased from 0.56 ± 0.27 at base line to 0.50 ± 0.21 after 1 month and to 0.46 ± 0.21 after 6 months.

Conclusion

OCTA parameters were significantly improved by PRP in PDR patients, possibly due to redistribution of blood in occluded capillary plexuses.

Trials registry: NCT04976361.
Litsea cubeba fruit attenuates diabetes-associated metabolic complications in mice
Authors: Goldar Waquar Ahmed , Jana Sandipan , Kumari Reshma , Bhattacharya Sanjib , Haldar Pallab Kanti
Published: March 2022

Background

Litsea cubeba(Lour) Pers. (Lauraceae) fruit has traditionally been used in treatment of diabetes in Sikkim, India. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the antidiabetic activity of methanol extract ofLitsea cubebafruit (MELCF) against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in male albino mice. MELCF was assessed for in vitro α amylase, α glucosidase inhibitory activity and in vitro antioxidant activity against 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide radicals. STZ was given intraperitoneally at 60 mg/kg for consecutive 3 days to mice. MELCF was administered orally in three doses 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg body weight to STZ-induced mice. Metformin (200 mg/kg body weight) served as reference. Blood glucose and body weight were checked in seven days interval. After 28 days of treatment, the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, urea were measured. Hepatic and renal antioxidant parameters of viz. lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were estimated. The histopathological evaluation of pancreas, liver and kidney was performed.

Results

MELCF demonstrated significant alpha-amylase, DPPH and nitric oxide inhibitory effects. It significantly reduced blood glucose in a dose dependent manner. It has normalizing effect on HbA1c, AST, ALT, TC, TG, urea and creatinine. It has a modulator effect on tissue antioxidant status i.e., LPO, GSH and SOD. Histopathological findings reveled regenerative effect in pancreatic islets, liver and kidney.

Conclusion

It can hence be concluded that,Litsea cubebafruit has significant attenuative effect against diabetic complications in mice.
Effect of Amlodipine/Nebivolol combination therapy on central BP and PWV compared to Amlodipine/Valsartan combination therapy
Authors: Sultan El-Zahraa M. , Rabea Hoda , Elberry Ahmed A. , Mahmoud Hesham B.
Published: March 2022

Background

Pulse wave velocity (PWV) and central blood pressure (CBP) have been intoduced into managment of hypertensive patients. PWV is positively correlated with arterial wall stiffness while central aortic pressure becomes better predictor of cardiovascular outcome than peripheral pressure. Reduction in CBP provides protective properties against subclinical organ damage. This work aims to investigate the effect of a new combination therapy of Amlodipine/Nebivolol (A/N) on central BP, peripheral BP and PWV. The results of using this combination will be compared to the well-established fixed-dose combination of Amlodipine/Valsartan (A/V). The study conducted between October 2018 and August 2020. One hundred and two hypertensive patients were assigned for Amlodipine 10 mg/Valsartan 160 mg combination therapy (A/V, n = 52) or Amlodipine 10 mg/Nebivolol 5 mg combination therapy (A/N, n = 50) by simple 1:1 randomization. Office, central blood pressure and PWV were measured on first (0 week), second (4–8 weeks) and third visit (10–12). Difference in BP (in each arm and between arms) was calculated along all visits.

Results

No statistical significant difference was found between A/V and A/N regarding age, gender, BMI and CV history. OBP, CBP and PWV were significantly reduced in each arm, but no differences were found when comparing both arm results to each other. Recorded side effects were insignificant.

Conclusions

The new combination therapy Amlodipine/Nebivolol (A/N) affords a significant reduction in CBP, PBP and PWV with minor and tolerable side effects. It has provided comparable results to Amlodipine/Valsartan (A/V) combination therapy.
Framework for identification and measurement of spillover effects in policy implementation: intended non-intended targeted non-targeted spillovers (INTENTS)
Authors: Francetic Igor , Meacock Rachel , Elliott Jack , Kristensen Søren R. , Britteon Phillip , Lugo-Palacios David G. , Wilson Paul , Sutton Matt
Published: March 2022

Background

There is increasing awareness among researchers and policymakers of the potential for healthcare interventions to have consequences beyond those initially intended. These unintended consequences or “spillover effects” result from the complex features of healthcare organisation and delivery and can either increase or decrease overall effectiveness. Their potential influence has important consequences for the design and evaluation of implementation strategies and for decision-making. However, consideration of spillovers remains partial and unsystematic. We develop a comprehensive framework for the identification and measurement of spillover effects resulting from changes to the way in which healthcare services are organised and delivered.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to map the existing literature on spillover effects in health and healthcare interventions and used the findings of this review to develop a comprehensive framework to identify and measure spillover effects.

Results

The scoping review identified a wide range of different spillover effects, either experienced by agents not intentionally targeted by an intervention or representing unintended effects for targeted agents. Our scoping review revealed that spillover effects tend to be discussed in papers only when they are found to be statistically significant or might account for unexpected findings, rather than as a pre-specified feature of evaluation studies. This hinders the ability to assess all potential implications of a given policy or intervention. We propose a taxonomy of spillover effects, classified based on the outcome and the unit experiencing the effect: within-unit, between-unit, and diagonal spillover effects. We then present the INTENTS framework: Intended Non-intended TargEted Non-Targeted Spillovers. The INTENTS framework considers the units and outcomes which may be affected by an intervention and the mechanisms by which spillover effects are generated.

Conclusions

The INTENTS framework provides a structured guide for researchers and policymakers when considering the potential effects that implementation strategies may generate, and the steps to take when designing and evaluating such interventions. Application of the INTENTS framework will enable spillover effects to be addressed appropriately in future evaluations and decision-making, ensuring that the full range of costs and benefits of interventions are correctly identified.
Form-based code as a tool for organising the 6th of October City’s townscape
Authors: Khalil A. B. , Ouf A. M.
Published: March 2022

This research uses a form-based code (FBC) to affect the townscape through its procedures and components. Impacts of the FBC’s features on the townscape are classified into three categories the effect on urban spaces, buildings, and landscape architecture. This research explores the components of the categories and makes reference to those components within the 6th of October City, Egypt, from 2020 to 2021. Urban spaces are included, regulating plan, and public realm standards were investigated in the central axis and the inner streets. Buildings were also explored; block and lot and building type standards have been inspected at Al-Hossary Square and the 7th District, while survey field observations investigated the frontage type and architectural standards. In addition, landscape architecture components of the FBC were explored through fieldwork observed throughout the city. This research employs an inductive approach of the literature base, a comparative analytical approach to compare the unified building law (UBL) with the FBC components, and a documentary survey method for fieldwork. The results extracted a proposed townscape code and some modifications of the building law (modifying some existing articles and adding new ones) to make FBC applicable in the surveyed city.
Parametric study on dynamic responses of stiffened sandwich composite bridge deck panel
Authors: Sahu Aloka Ranjan , Behera Suryamani , Mukharjee Bibhuti Bhusan , Mondal Subhajit
Published: March 2022

Recently, the use of sandwich composites in different fields of engineering such as aerospace, marine, automobile, pipelines, bridge structure, industrial work, has attracted significant attention. Sensitivity analysis of structures made of sandwich composites is necessary to design them properly and maintain their longevity. The present study analyzes stiffened sandwich composite bridge deck panels and focuses on its sensitivity analysis. The lack of control in the manufacturing of the sandwich composites may lead to non-uniform material properties, and thus variation in its behavior. The variation in the dynamic responses obtained through the free vibration analysis of the bridge deck panel models of stiffened composites due to is studied. The free vibration analysis is implemented using a finite element method. The analysis is carried out with the stiffeners located in different positions and alignments. The glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) and polyvinyl semi-rigid foam are considered in the face and core layer for modeling the deck panels, respectively. The sensitivity of the bridge deck panels is also observed with the presence of holes of different diameters in the core layer of the sandwich composite plate without stiffeners and with a transverse stiffener. It has been noticed that dynamic response, i.e. the eigenvalue, is sensitive concerning the in-plane parameters of the face layers compared to other parameters. Moreover, an increase in the size of the hole in the core layer results in a decrease in the dynamic response of the stiffened sandwich composite bridge deck panel. The knowledge of the sensitivity of the sandwich composites will be helpful to update the model and also to design the bridge deck for better performance and improved longevity.
The lived experiences of resilience among Syrian refugees in the UK: interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Alachkar Mustafa
Published: March 2022

Aims and method

Refugees’ mental health has attracted great interest from researchers recently, in view of increasing numbers of refugees settling in Europe. A deficit model, focusing on mental disorder, has often dominated the discourse on the subject, but a strength-based model is becoming more recognised and adopted. Through semi-structured interviews, and using interpretative phenomenological analysis as a data analysis tool, the current study sought to explore the lived experiences of Syrian refugees in the UK in relation to resilience factors.

Results

Three main themes were identified reflecting interpersonal and family factors, factors related to religion, faith and belief systems, and personal qualities.

Clinical implications

The study calls for perceiving refugees as resilient individuals with strengths and adaptive qualities. It also demonstrates that refugees’ resilience is essentially an interpersonal process, advocating therefore for engagement and therapeutic approaches that are systemic, relational, and culturally and spiritually competent.
Clipping Could Be the Best Treatment Modality for Recurring Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysms Treated Endovascularly
Authors: Sweid Ahmad , El Naamani Kareem , Abbas Rawad , Starke Robert M. , Badih Khodr , El Hajjar Rayan , Saad Hassan , Hammoud Bassel , Andrews Carrie , Rahm Sage P. , Atallah Elias , Ramesh Sunidhi , Tjoumakaris Stavropoula , Gooch M. Reid , Herial Nabeel , Hasan David , Rosenwasser Robert H. , Jabbour Pascal
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND:

The anterior communicating artery (AcoA) is the most common location for intracranial aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE:

To present occlusion outcomes, complication rate, recurrence rate, and predictors of recurrence in a large cohort with AcoA aneurysms treated primarily with endosaccular embolization. We also attempt to present data on the most effective treatment modality for recurrent AcoA aneurysms.

METHODS:

This is a retrospective, single-center study, reviewing the outcomes of 463 AcoA aneurysms treated endovascularly between 2003 and 2018.

RESULTS:

The study cohort consisted of 463 patients. Adequate immediate occlusion was achieved in 418 (90.3%). Independent functional status at discharge was observed in 269 patients (58.0%), and the mortality rate was 6.8% (31). At 6 months, adequate occlusion was achieved in 418 (90.4%). Of all the patients, recurrence was observed in 101 cases (21.8%), and of those, 98 (22.4%) underwent retreatment. The combined frequency of retreatment for the coiling group was 42.4%, which was significantly higher than the 0 incident of retreatment in the clipping group (P< .0001). Among the retreatment cohort, there was a significantly higher subsequent retreatment rate in the endovascular group (0% in the clipping group vs 42.4% in the endovascular group,P< .0001).

CONCLUSION:

Coiling with and without stent/balloon assistance is a relatively safe and effective modality for the treatment of AcoA aneurysms; however, in the setting of recurrence, microsurgical reconstruction leads to improved outcomes regarding durable occlusion, thus avoiding the potential for multiple interventions in the future.
UHRF2 regulates cell cycle, epigenetics and gene expression to control the timing of retinal progenitor and ganglion cell differentiation
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Sarver Aaron L. , Han Qiyuan , Seiler Christopher L. , Xie Chencheng , Lu Huarui , Forster Colleen L. , Tretyakova Natalia Y. , Hallstrom Timothy C.
Published: March 2022

Ubiquitin-like, containing PHD and RING finger domains 2 (UHRF2) regulates cell cycle and binds 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) to promote completion of DNA demethylation. Uhrf2−/− mice are without gross phenotypic defects; however, the cell cycle and epigenetic regulatory functions of Uhrf2 during retinal tissue development are unclear. Retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) produce all retinal neurons and Müller glia in a predictable sequence controlled by the complex interplay between extrinsic signaling, cell cycle, epigenetic changes and cell-specific transcription factor activation. In this study, we find that UHRF2 accumulates in RPCs, and its conditional deletion from mouse RPCs reduced 5hmC, altered gene expressions and disrupted retinal cell proliferation and differentiation. Retinal ganglion cells were overproduced in Uhrf2-deficient retinae at the expense of VSX2+ RPCs. Most other cell types were transiently delayed in differentiation. Expression of each member of the Tet3/Uhrf2/Tdg active demethylation pathway was reduced in Uhrf2-deficient retinae, consistent with locally reduced 5hmC in their gene bodies. This study highlights a novel role of UHRF2 in controlling the transition from RPCs to differentiated cell by regulating cell cycle, epigenetic and gene expression decisions.
Auriculocondylar syndrome 2 results from the dominant-negative action of PLCB4 variants
Authors: Kanai Stanley M. , Heffner Caleb , Cox Timothy C. , Cunningham Michael L. , Perez Francisco A. , Bauer Aaron M. , Reigan Philip , Carter Cristan , Murray Stephen A. , Clouthier David E.
Published: March 2022

Auriculocondylar syndrome 2 (ARCND2) is a rare autosomal dominant craniofacial malformation syndrome linked to multiple genetic variants in the coding sequence of phospholipase C β4 (PLCB4). PLCB4 is a direct signaling effector of the endothelin receptor type A (EDNRA)-Gq/11 pathway, which establishes the identity of neural crest cells (NCCs) that form lower jaw and middle ear structures. However, the functional consequences of PLCB4 variants on EDNRA signaling is not known. Here, we show, using multiple signaling reporter assays, that known PLCB4 variants resulting from missense mutations exert a dominant-negative interference over EDNRA signaling. In addition, using CRISPR/Cas9, we find that F0 mouse embryos modeling one PLCB4 variant have facial defects recapitulating those observed in hypomorphic Ednra mouse models, including a bone that we identify as an atavistic change in the posterior palate/oral cavity. Remarkably, we have identified a similar osseous phenotype in a child with ARCND2. Our results identify the disease mechanism of ARCND2, demonstrate that the PLCB4 variants cause craniofacial differences and illustrate how minor changes in signaling within NCCs may have driven evolutionary changes in jaw structure and function.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Terrestrial force production by the limbs of a semi-aquatic salamander provides insight into the evolution of terrestrial locomotor mechanics
Authors: Kawano Sandy M. , Blob Richard W.
Published: March 2022

Amphibious fishes and salamanders are valuable functional analogs for vertebrates that spanned the water–land transition. However, investigations of walking mechanics have focused on terrestrial salamanders and, thus, may better reflect the capabilities of stem tetrapods that were already terrestrial. The earliest tetrapods were likely aquatic, so salamanders that are not primarily terrestrial may yield more appropriate data for modeling the incipient stages of terrestrial locomotion. In the present study, locomotor biomechanics were quantified from semi-aquatic Pleurodeles waltl, a salamander that spends most of its adult life in water, and then compared with those of a primarily terrestrial salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) and a semi-aquatic fish (Periophthalmus barbarus) to evaluate whether terrestrial locomotion was more comparable between species with ecological versus phylogenetic similarities. Ground reaction forces (GRFs) from individual limbs or fins indicated that the pectoral appendages of each taxon had distinct patterns of force production, but GRFs from the hindlimbs were comparable between the salamander species. The rate at which force is produced can affect musculoskeletal function, so we also calculated ‘yank’ (first time derivative of force) to quantify the dynamics of GRF production. Yank was sometimes slower in P. waltl but there were some similarities between the three species. Finally, the semi-aquatic taxa (P. waltl and P. barbarus) had a more medial inclination of the GRF compared to terrestrial salamanders, potentially elevating bone stresses among more aquatic taxa and limiting their excursions onto land.
Artificial intelligence applied to fetal MRI: A scoping review of current research
Authors: Meshaka Riwa , Gaunt Trevor , Shelmerdine Susan C
Published: March 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is defined as the development of computer systems to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence. A subset of AI, known as machine learning (ML), takes this further by drawing inferences from patterns in data to ‘learn’ and ‘adapt’ without explicit instructions meaning that computer systems can ‘evolve’ and hopefully improve without necessarily requiring external human influences. The potential for this novel technology has resulted in great interest from the medical community regarding how it can be applied in healthcare. Within radiology, the focus has mostly been for applications in oncological imaging, although new roles in other subspecialty fields are slowly emerging.

In this scoping review, we performed a literature search of the current state-of-the-art and emerging trends for the use of artificial intelligence as applied to fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our search yielded several publications covering AI tools for anatomical organ segmentation, improved imaging sequences and aiding in diagnostic applications such as automated biometric fetal measurements and the detection of congenital and acquired abnormalities. We highlight our own perceived gaps in this literature and suggest future avenues for further research. It is our hope that the information presented highlights the varied ways and potential that novel digital technology could make an impact to future clinical practice with regards to fetal MRI.
Big data analysis in humanities and economics with machine learning techniques and use of cloud computing technologies
Authors: Θεοδωρακόπουλος Λεωνίδας
Published: March 2022

Η Ανάλυση Συναισθήματος έχει διερευνηθεί εκτενώς τα τελευταία χρόνια ως μέθοδος ταξινόμησης των ανθρώπινων συναισθημάτων σε συγκεκριμένα γεγονότα, προϊόντα, υπηρεσίες κ.λπ. Θεωρείται ως ένα πολύ σημαντικό πρόβλημα, ειδικά για οργανισμούς ή εταιρείες που θέλουν να γνωρίζουν την άποψη των καταναλωτών για τους προϊόντα και υπηρεσίες. Σε συνδυασμό με την εξέλιξη των μέσων κοινωνικής δικτύωσης, έχει καθιερωθεί ως ένας ενδιαφέρον τομέας έρευνας. Μέσω των social media, οι άνθρωποι τείνουν να εκφράζουν τις απόψεις ή τα συναισθήματά τους, όπως ευτυχία ή λύπη σε καθημερινή βάση. Έτσι, ο τεράστιος όγκος των διαθέσιμων δεδομένων έχει καταστήσει τις υπάρχουσες λύσεις ακατάλληλες και η ανάγκη για αυτοματοποιημένες μεθόδους ανάλυσης είναι επιτακτική. Σε αυτή τη διατριβή, εξετάστηκε η ανάλυση πολικότητας συναισθήματος σε δεδομένα από το Twitter σε ένα κατανεμημένο περιβάλλον, γνωστό ως Apache Spark. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, σε αυτή τη διατριβή προτείνονται τρεις αλγόριθμοι ταξινόμησης για ανάλυση συναισθήματος σε επίπεδο tweet στο Spark λόγω της καταλληλότητάς του για επεξεργασία Big Data έναντι των προκατόχων του, MapReduce και Hadoop. Επίσης εξετάστηκαν οι επιπτώσεις της αβεβαιότητας της οικονομικής πολιτικής στη μεταβλητότητα των αποδόσεων των μετοχών με στοιχεία από τα μεγαλύτερα τραπεζικά ιδρύματα στην Ελλάδα. Η μεταβλητότητα κατασκευάζεται με χρήση ημερήσιων δεδομένων, ενώ η ερευνητική περίοδος εκτείνεται σε μια περίοδο περίπου δεκατριών ετών, πιο συγκεκριμένα από τις 5 Ιανουαρίου 2001 έως τις 30 Ιουνίου 2014. Αυτή η περίοδος περιλαμβάνει διάφορες φάσεις της αγοράς, όπως κραχ του χρηματιστηρίου μαζί με μετοχές άνθηση της αγοράς (π.χ. η χρηματοπιστωτική κρίση του 2007 και του 2008 στις Ηνωμένες Πολιτείες και η κρίση του ευρωπαϊκού δημόσιου χρέους). Οι εκτιμώμενες παλινδρομήσεις χρησιμοποιήθηκαν για να υποδείξουν τις άμεσες επιπτώσεις της αβεβαιότητας της οικονομικής πολιτικής στη μεταβλητότητα της απόδοσης της μετοχής στις τέσσερις μεγαλύτερες Ελληνικές τράπεζες. Για τη μελέτη των ημερήσιων δεδομένων της μεταβλητότητας χρησιμοποιήθηκαν τέσσερις διαφορετικοί εκτιμητές.
Η αξία των βιοχημικών δεικτών, όπως η CRP και η ADA, της υπερηχογραφικής εικόνας και της μανομετρίας στη διάγνωση και την πρόγνωση πλευριτικών συλλογών
Authors: Περλεπέ Γαρυφαλλιά-Ειρήνη
Published: March 2022

Η συλλογή υγρού στην πλευριτική κοιλότητα ως απότοκο υπεζωκοτικής, πνευμονικής ή εξωθωρακικής νόσου αποτελεί μια νόσο με ευρεία διαφορική διάγνωση και διαρκώς αυξανόμενη επίπτωση με βάση τα στοιχεία της ευρωπαϊκής αναπνευστικής εταιρείας (ERS). Η έγκαιρη και ορθή θέσπιση της υποκείμενης αιτιολογίας που οδηγεί στην πρόκληση πλευριτικής συλλογής είναι ουσιώδης καθώς οι ασθενείς επωφελούνται από την έγκαιρη έναρξη θεραπείας. Στην κλινική πράξη ωστόσο, παρά την χρήση των αποδεδειγμένων πρακτικών, η διαφοροποίηση μεταξύ των διαφόρων κατηγοριών πλευριτικών συλλογών αποτελεί πρόκληση , είναι συχνά χρονοβόρος και πιθανώς απαιτεί επεμβατικές πρακτικές. Προς την κατεύθυνση αυτή, αντικείμενο έρευνας αποτελεί ένας αριθμός βιοδεικτών και απεικονιστικών μεθόδων με στόχο να υπάρξει σαφής και ταχεία κατηγοριοποίηση. Τα ευρέως εφαρμοσμένα κριτήρια του Light μπορούν να μας παρέχουν μια πρώτη διάκριση μεταξύ διϊδρωματικών και εξιδρωματικών συλλογών. Η παρούσα έρευνα επιχειρεί να κατηγοριοποιήσει τις τρεις συνηθέστερες εξιδρωματικές συλλογές, δηλαδή τις κακοήθεις (MPE), παραπνευμονικές (PPE), και φυματιώδεις πλευριτικές συλλογές(TPE) μέσω των πλευριτικών επιπέδων της C-αντιδρώσας πρωτεΐνης (p-CRP) , της δεαμινάσης της αδενοσίνης (p-ADA), της υπερηχογραφικής εικόνας και του συνδυασμού τους. Παράλληλα εφαρμόζοντας την μανομετρία υπεζωκότα στην καθ΄ ημέρα πράξη προσπαθήσαμε να εξετάσουμε την κλινική σημασία της. Τα αποτελέσματα μας υποστηρίζουν πως ο συνδυασμός p-CRP και p-ADA επιτυγχάνει σε στατιστικά σημαντικό επίπεδο να διαχωρίσει τις τρεις κατηγορίες πλευριτικών συλλογών σε ποσοστό που ανέρχεται σε 93%. Ακόμη επίπεδα p-CRP ≥4,4mg/dl είναι ενδεικτικά PPE, ενώ επίπεδα ADA≤ 32,5 θα μπορούσαν να χαρακτηρίσουν τις MPE. Επιπροσθέτως, ο συνδυασμός υπερηχογραφικής εικόνας και p-CRP δύναται με υψηλή ειδικότητα να υποδείξει μια PPE. Προχωρώντας στη μανομετρία υπεζωκότα, η παρούσα μελέτη αναδεικνύει τις δυσκολίες που συνεπάγεται η μέτρηση των ενδοπλεύριων πιέσεων στο πλαίσιο μια θωρακοκέντησης αλλά και τις σημαντικές πληροφορίες που μας προσφέρει για την παθοφυσιολογία του υπεζωκότα, την πρόβλεψη παγιδευμένου πνεύμονα, την επιτυχία ενδεχόμενης πλευρόδεσης και την έκλυση συμπτωμάτων. Συμπερασματικά, η χρήση των δυο ευρέως διαθέσιμων βιοδεικτών CRP, ADA και της υπερηχογραφικής εικόνας θα μπορούσε να εφαρμοστεί στην καθημερινή πρακτική για την διάκριση των τριών κατηγοριών με υποσχόμενα αποτελέσματα. Η χρήση της μανομετρίας σε επιλεγμένες ομάδες ασθενών προτείνεται επίσης από την παρούσα μελέτη καθώς θα μπορούσε να προσδώσει σημαντικές κλινικές πληροφορίες.
Assessing the health state of arboreal vegetation in urban, rural, and natural ecosystems, using non-destructive phenotypic techniques
Authors: Ζευγώλης Ιωάννης
Published: March 2022

Η διατήρηση των αστικών, αγροτικών και φυσικών οικοσυστημάτων, μέσω της αποτελεσματικής παρακολούθησης της κατάστασης της υγείας τους, είναι ζωτικής σημασίας τόσο σε επίπεδο δέντρου όσο και σε επίπεδο πληθυσμού. Σε αυτή τη διατριβή, δημιουργήθηκε ένα ολοκληρωμένο μεθοδολογικό πλαίσιο για την εκτίμηση της κατάστασης της υγείας της δενδρώδους βλάστησης, λαμβάνοντας υπόψη τα θεμελιώδη φαινοτυπικά, φασματικά, χωρικά, θερμικά και υγρασιακά γνωρίσματα των δέντρων. Αξιολογήθηκε ένα σύνολο 910 δέντρων από εννέα διαφορετικά είδη, με τη λήψη φαινοτυπικών πληροφοριών από (α) 334 αστικά δέντρα (Robinia pseudoacacia, Morus alba, Melia azedarach), 80 ελαιόδεντρα (Olea europaea) και 496 πεύκα (Pinus brutia) . Η επίδραση διαφορετικών διαταραχών, όπως δομικά ελαττώματα και παρουσία μυκήτων, που μπορεί να θέσει σε κίνδυνο τη μηχανική ακεραιότητα, την υγεία και την παραγωγικότητα των δέντρων, εντοπίστηκε, ποσοτικοποιήθηκε και χαρτογραφήθηκε, με τη χρήση μη καταστροφικών φαινοτυπικών τεχνικών. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι ο συνδυασμός των φαινοτυπικών χαρακτηριστικών και δεικτών των δέντρων, μπορεί επαρκώς (α) να εκτιμήσει τη σοβαρότητα της αποσύνθεσης, (β) να ταξινομήσει τα επικίνδυνα δέντρα, (γ) να εντοπίσει την παρουσία μυκήτων και (ε) να προβλέψει τον ρυθμό ανάπτυξης και την παραγωγικότητα των δέντρων. Όλα αυτά μπορούν να συμβάλουν στην αξιολόγηση της υγείας των δέντρων, προσφέροντας σημαντικές πληροφορίες για την παρακολούθηση της δυναμικής των αστικών, αγροτικών και φυσικών οικοσυστημάτων.
Case Report: Mitral valve obstruction by metastatic malignant phyllodes tumor
Authors: Ikram Chamtouri , Nesrine Amdouni , Rania Kaddoussi , Bellalah Ahlem , Chokri Kortas , Asma Achour , Sameh Joober , Faouzi Maatouk
Published: March 2022

Cardiac metastases from phyllodes tumors (PTs) are rare. Herein, we report a case of a 37-year-old female patient with a history of borderline breast PTs, admitted to the cardiology department for acute cardiac failure revealing concomitant cardiac and pulmonary metastases of malignant PTs. Cardiac metastasis occurred through direct extension from pulmonary metastasis to the left atrium via the right inferior pulmonary vein, causing severe mitral valve obstruction. Although the metastasis was surgically removed, the patient had an uncommon complication, which led to acute heart failure and huge relapse resulting in her death.
Factors affecting elective cesarean section in women with multiple pregnancy in Caruban, Indonesia
Authors: Mahindra Muhammad Pradhiki , Sampurna Mahendra Tri Arif , Mapindra Muhammad Pradhika , Putri Apriska Mega Sutowo , Krisbiyantoro Aries , Aryananda Rozi Aditya
Published: March 2022

Background: Caesarean sections have become the most popular method for delivering twin babies because of the safety concerns associated with a natural birth. This study aims to identify the maternal characteristics and obstetric parameters that serve as risk factors influencing caesarean delivery in twin pregnancies by comparing women delivering via caesarean section and vaginal birth.

Methods: A retrospective chart review design was used to analyse 47 women with multiple pregnancies from the medical records at a primary referral hospital in East Java, Indonesia. Women delivering vaginally were then compared with women who underwent a caesarean section to identify any differences between the groups.

Results: In our study, more women delivered by caesarean section than by vaginal birth. Women were more likely to undergo a caesarean section if they had a previous history of undergoing a caesarean section. Similar to previous studies, we found that foetal malpresentation significantly increase the risk of caesarean delivery, while labour augmentation decrease the likelihood of caesarean section. There was also a significant difference in maternal age between groups.

Conclusions: The percentage of multiple pregnancies delivered via caesarean section is quite high. Other larger cohort study are warranted, since many factors were involved in the decision of caesarean section.
COVID-19 and the global cruise ship industry: potential recovery and reformation pathways
Authors: Chikodzi David , Nhamo Godwell , Dube Kaitano
Published: March 2022

The cruise ship industry was one of the fastest growing subsectors of the tourism industry before the advent of COVID-19. This paper examines the prospects and recovery of the cruise ship industry from the devastating impacts of COVID-19 on the industry. The study relied mostly on event study and secondary data, including survey data from authoritative sources, data from representative organisations, news reports and academic literature. The results show that the industry exhibited high levels of customer loyalty and resilience to the COVID-19-induced downturn. The industry also adopted additional protocols to improve public health on board and protect the health and safety of customers, crews and visited communities. However, continued travel restrictions at both source and destination markets, as well as the continued resurgence of the virus and related uncertainties, threaten the recovery of the industry. Mandatory vaccination of both crew and passengers needs to be considered.
Novel Pooling Strategies for Genetic Testing, with Application to Newborn Screening
Authors: El Hajj Hussein , Bish Douglas R. , Bish Ebru K. , Kay Denise M.
Published: March 2022

Newborn screening (NBS) is a state-level initiative that detects life-threatening genetic disorders for which early treatment can substantially improve health outcomes. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is among the most prevalent disorders in NBS. CF can be caused by a large number of mutation variants to the CFTR gene. Most states use a multitest CF screening process that includes a genetic test (DNA). However, due to cost concerns, DNA is used only on a small subset of newborns (based on a low-cost biomarker test with low classification accuracy), and only for a small subset of CF-causing variants. To overcome the cost barriers of expanded genetic testing, we explore a novel approach, of multipanel pooled DNA testing. This approach leads not only to a novel optimization problem (variant selection for screening, variant partition into multipanels, and pool size determination for each panel), but also to novel CF NBS processes. We establish key structural properties of optimal multipanel pooled DNA designs; develop a methodology that generates a family of optimal designs at different costs; and characterize the conditions under which a 1-panel versus a multipanel design is optimal. This methodology can assist decision-makers to design a screening process, considering the cost versus accuracy trade-off. Our case study, based on published CF NBS data from the state of New York, indicates that the multipanel and pooling aspects of genetic testing work synergistically, and the proposed NBS processes have the potential to substantially improve both the efficiency and accuracy of current practices.

This paper was accepted by Stefan Scholtes, healthcare management.

Funding: This work was supported by National Science Foundation [Grant 1761842]. Any opinion, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

Supplemental Material: The data files and e-companion are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.4289 .