bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser Resurfacing Monotherapy for the Treatment of Actinic Keratosis
Authors: Tai Felicia , Shah Monica , Pon Kucy , Alavi Afsaneh
Published: July 2021

Treating actinic keratosis (AK) and photodamaged skin is critical to reduce the risk of progression to skin cancer. Laser resurfacing for AK treatment is available as either lesion-directed or field therapy. Laser resurfacing removes the superficial epidermis and dermis containing actinic damage, promoting re-epithelialization of healthy skin. Although laser resurfacing has been explored as a modality for AK treatment in the literature, studies summarizing its efficacy in the treatment of AK are lacking. This review summarizes existing research on laser resurfacing as a monotherapy for AK treatment, highlighting the various laser resurfacing modalities available for AK treatment as well as their complications and efficacy in comparison to other therapies. Despite longer healing time, fully ablative laser resurfacing, including carbon dioxide and erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet were found to be more effective for AK treatment than fractional ablative techniques. Although some studies suggest laser resurfacing monotherapy as less efficacious than photodynamic therapy, and equally effective to 5-fluorouracil and 30% trichloroacetic acid, clinical trials of larger sample size are required to establish stronger evidence-based conclusions. Moreover, laser resurfacing used as lesion-directed therapy, as opposed to the usual field-therapy, requires further investigation.
Cracking behavior and energy consumption of Steel Fiber Concrete Encased Steel beams
Authors: Xu Chao , Wu Kai , Cao Ping zhou , Lin Shi-qi , Chen Zhuo
Published: July 2021

Steel Fiber Concrete Encased Steel (SFCES) beams were subjected to bending to investigate the effect of steel fibers on the behavior of Steel Reinforced Concrete beams with or without steel reinforcement. 18 SFCES beams reinforced with steel fibers, steel reinforcement, or both were cast. The parameters considered in the experiment were (a) the volume percentage of steel fiber (0%, 1%, and 2%), (b) the shear span to depth ratio( s/d = 2.5 and 3.5), (c) the stirrups spacing (180 mm and 360 mm), and (d) the presence or absence of longitudinal reinforcement (2Φ8+2Φ10).The cracking load, crack development, energy dissipation capacity, and ductility of the specimens were investigated. The results illustrate that the cracking load F c, the total energy consumption, and the energy ductility increase with increasing steel fiber volume, and the average improvement with a steel fiber volume increase of 1% can reach 36.5%, 21.2%, and 28.67%, respectively. However, this strengthening effect of steel fibers was weakened due to the addition of steel reinforcement. The influence of the steel fiber volume and reinforcement configuration on each stage of energy consumption was mainly concentrated in the elastic ( E 1) and failure stages ( E 3). Finally, mathematical equations were proposed to predict the cracking load and crack width of the SFCES specimens, which were verified by comparing the predictions with the experiment results.
Social work undergraduates students and COVID-19 experiences in Nigeria
Authors: Ezulike Chigozie Donatus , Okoye Uzoma Odera , Ekoh Prince Chiagozie
Published: July 2021

Following the highly contagious nature of the coronavirus disease and the increase in confirmed cases, the Nigerian government, imposed lockdowns, quarantines, and various social distancing measures to curb the rate of infection. Schools were closed, and examinations were postponed indefinitely. Students of private schools were able to resume academic activities online. However, most public schools could not do so, due to lack of infrastructure. This study aimed to qualitatively investigate the impacts of the novel coronavirus on final-year students of social work, at the University of Nigeria. Data was collected from 20 undergraduates using in-depth interviews. Findings showed that the pandemic had negative effects on different aspects of the students’ lives. It was also revealed that some of the students were resilient and were able to use various coping strategies to avoid being overwhelmed by the situation. A policy implication of this study is the need for revitalization of Nigerian public universities, as the continued lockdown of schools shows how public universities are poorly managed in the country. This poor management of public schools has made it impossible for a switch to virtual learning.
PrAVA: Preprocessing profiling approach for visual analytics
Authors: Milani Alessandra Maciel Paz , Loges Lucas Angelo , Paulovich Fernando Vieira , Manssour Isabel Harb
Published: July 2021

To accommodate the demands of a data-driven society, we have expanded our ability to collect and store data, develop sophisticated algorithms, and generate elaborated visual representations of the data analysis process outcomes. However, data preprocessing, as the activity of transforming the raw data into an appropriate format for subsequent analysis, is still a challenging part of this process. Although we can find studies that address the use of visualization techniques to support the activities in the scope of preprocessing, the current Visual Analytics processes do not consider preprocessing an equally important phase in their processes. Hence, with this paper, we aim to contribute to the discussion of how we can incorporate the preprocessing as a prominent phase in the Visual Analytics process and promote better alternatives to assist the data analysts during the preprocessing activities. To achieve that, we are introducing the Preprocessing Profiling Approach for Visual Analytics (PrAVA), a conceptual Visual Analytics process that includes Preprocessing Profiling as a new phase. It also contemplates a set of guidelines to be considered by new solutions adopting PrAVA. Moreover, we analyze its applicability through use case scenarios that show resourceful methods for data understanding and evaluation of the preprocessing impacts. As a final contribution, we indicate a list of research opportunities in the scope of preprocessing combined with visualization and Visual Analytics to stimulate a shift to visual preprocessing.
Fluorescence-Guided Surgery for High-Grade Gliomas: State of the Art and New Perspectives
Authors: Palmieri Giuseppe , Cofano Fabio , Salvati Luca Francesco , Monticelli Matteo , Zeppa Pietro , Perna Giuseppe Di , Melcarne Antonio , Altieri Roberto , La Rocca Giuseppe , Sabatino Giovanni , Barbagallo Giuseppe Maria , Tartara Fulvio , Zenga Francesco , Garbossa Diego
Published: July 2021

High-grade gliomas are aggressive tumors that require multimodal management and gross total resection is considered to be the first crucial step of treatment. Because of their infiltrative nature, intraoperative differentiation of neoplastic tissue from normal parenchyma can be challenging. For these reasons, in the recent years, neurosurgeons have increasingly performed this surgery under the guidance of tissue fluorescence. Sodium fluoresceine and 5-aminolevulinic acid represent the 2 main compounds that allow real-time identification of residual malignant tissue and have been associated with improved gross total resection and radiological outcomes. Though presenting different profiles of sensitivity and specificity and further investigations concerning cost-effectiveness are need, Sodium fluoresceine, 5-aminolevulinic acid and new phluorophores, such as Indocyanine green, represent some of the most important tools in the neurosurgeon’s hands to achieve gross total resection.
Iatrogenic injuries of the popliteus tendon during total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Ammar Ameni , Abcha Oussama , Daghfous Mohamed Samir
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The popliteus tendon is known to play a key role in the stability of the posterolateral corner of the knee. Its role in the stability of the replaced knee remains contentious.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of an iatrogenic lesion of the popliteus tendon during total knee arthroplasty surgery on the stability and function of the knee

Methods:

We searched in the operating report registers, patients with complete iatrogenic injury of the popliteus tendon during total knee arthroplasty on genu-varum. We evaluated postoperative varus, mobility and stability and we calculated their International Knee Society scores

Results:

Among the 423 reports of total knee arthroplasties consulted in the operating report registers, we found seven patients with a complete iatrogenic injury of the popliteus tendon. All patients had preoperative extension deficit. All operated knees were stiff, tight and small. At postoperative follow-up, all the knees had good stability and function. All the patients were satisfied.

Conclusion:

we concluded that the isolated section of the popliteus tendon does not seem to modify the static stability of the knee. However, it can cause a decrease in long-term functional scores. More work is needed to increase understanding of the impact of this iatrogenic lesion on long-term function.
About a rare cause of calf pain in an athlete: the popliteal artery entrapment syndrome
Authors: Abcha Oussama , Ammar Ameni , Daghfous Mohamed Samir
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Subsequent pain after a central ligament injury of the knee is usually attributed to meniscal or osteochondral damage inherent in trauma or secondary to knee instability. It has not been reported that vascular calf pain can be triggered by knee ligament trauma.

Methods:

We report a rare case of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES), discovered during a vascular claudication following post-traumatic anterior instability of the knee. The diagnosis was confirmed by CT angiography which showed a PAES, with a pathway in the inter-condylar notch. The patient had a releasing of the trapped vessel by myomectomy, with disappearance of vascular symptoms six months later.

Results:

Through this case, we wanted to draw the attention of orthopedic surgeons to the fact that the PAES can be asymptomatic. Its symptomatology can be triggered by a traumatic instability of the knee. Its presence represents a risk of lesion of the popliteal artery during arthroscopic ACL reconstruction. Therefore, it is important to think about this disease if a calf pain occurring after a ligament injury of the knee.
Adult Orbital Fractures with Extraocular Muscle Entrapment
Authors: Hakim Farida E. , Huang Anne , Mojtahed Saam , Reid Russell R. , Shah Hassan
Published: July 2021

Orbital fractures with entrapment are well described in children but occur less frequently in adults. The true incidence, natural history, and ideal timing of surgical intervention of adult orbital fractures with entrapment are unknown. A single institution, retrospective chart review of 5 adult patients with orbital fractures with entrapment who underwent surgical intervention and had at least 1 follow up visit was performed. Ages ranged from 21 to 62 years old (mean = 37.6). Timing between initial presentation and surgery ranged from 14 to 62 hours (mean = 34.8). Intra-operatively, all patients had clinical entrapment of extraocular muscles and underwent surgical release followed by orbital implant reconstruction. Follow up ranged from 1 week to 1 year (mean = 16 weeks). Three of 5 patients had significant improvement of extraocular movements at their last follow up. Two patients had residual exotropia and difficulty with adduction; one was a unique case with medial rectus transection which has not been previously described. It is important that clinical suspicion for entrapment remains high in orbital fractures even in adult populations. Based on current literature, early surgical intervention is recommended for adult patients with entrapment even in the absence of oculocardiac reflex.
Sorption of selected antiparasitics in soils and sediments
Authors: Heinrich Andre Patrick , Zöltzer Timm , Böhm Leonard , Wohde Manuel , Jaddoudi Sara , El Maataoui Yassine , Dahchour Abdelmalek , Düring Rolf-Alexander
Published: July 2021

Background

Veterinary pharmaceuticals can enter the environment when excreted after application and burden terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. However, knowledge about the basic process of sorption in soils and sediments is limited, complicating regulatory decisions. Therefore, batch equilibrium studies were conducted for the widely used antiparasitics abamectin, doramectin, ivermectin, and moxidectin to add to the assessment of their environmental fate.

Results

We examined 20 soil samples and six sediments from Germany and Morocco. Analysis was based on HPLC-fluorescence detection after derivatization. For soils, this resulted in distribution coefficients KD of 38–642 mL/g for abamectin, doramectin, and ivermectin. Moxidectin displayed KD between 166 and 3123 mL/g. Normalized to soil organic carbon, log KOC coefficients were 3.63, 3.93, 4.12, and 4.74 mL/g, respectively, revealing high affinity to organic matter of soils and sediments. Within sediments, distribution resulted in higher log KOC of 4.03, 4.13, 4.61, and 4.97 mL/g for the four substances. This emphasizes the diverse nature of organic matter in both environmental media. The results also confirm a newly reported log KOW for ivermectin which is higher than longstanding assumptions. Linear sorption models facilitate comparison with other studies and help establish universal distribution coefficients for the environmental risk assessment of veterinary antiparasitics.

Conclusions

Since environmental exposure affects soils and sediments, future sorption studies should aim to include both matrices to review these essential pharmaceuticals and mitigate environmental risks from their use. The addition of soils and sediments from the African continent (Morocco) touches upon possible broader applications of ivermectin for human use. Especially for ivermectin and moxidectin, strong sorption further indicates high hydrophobicity and provides initial concern for potential aquatic or terrestrial ecotoxicological effects such as bioaccumulation. Our derived KOW estimates also urge to re-assess this important regulatory parameter with contemporary techniques for all four substances.

Graphic abstract
Genome-wide profiling of long noncoding RNAs involved in wheat spike development
Authors: Cao Pei , Fan Wenjuan , Li Pengjia , Hu Yuxin
Published: July 2021

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play important roles in the regulation of plant growth and development. Recent transcriptomic analyses have revealed the gene expression profiling in wheat spike development, however, the possible regulatory roles of lncRNAs in wheat spike morphogenesis remain largely unclear.

Results

Here, we analyzed the genome-wide profiling of lncRNAs during wheat spike development at six stages, and identified a total of 8,889 expressed lncRNAs, among which 2,753 were differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE lncRNAs) at various developmental stages. Three hundred fifteen differentially expressed cis- and trans-regulatory lncRNA-mRNA pairs comprised of 205 lncRNAs and 279 genes were predicted, which were found to be mainly involved in the stress responses, transcriptional and enzymatic regulations. Moreover, the 145 DE lncRNAs were predicted as putative precursors or target mimics of miRNAs. Finally, we identified the important lncRNAs that participate in spike development by potentially targeting stress response genes, TF genes or miRNAs.

Conclusions

This study outlines an overall view of lncRNAs and their possible regulatory networks during wheat spike development, which also provides an alternative resource for genetic manipulation of wheat spike architecture and thus yield.
An edge-cloud collaborative computing platform for building AIoT applications efficiently
Authors: Rong Guoping , Xu Yangchen , Tong Xinxin , Fan Haojun
Published: July 2021

The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), or AIoT, has breathed a new life into IoT operations and human-machine interactions. Currently, resource-constrained IoT devices usually cannot provide sufficient capability for data storage and processing so as to support building modern AI models. An intuitive solution is to integrate cloud computing technology into AIoT and exploit the powerful and elastic computing as well as the storage capacity of the servers on the cloud end. Nevertheless, the network bandwidth and communication latency increasingly become serious bottlenecks. The emerging edge computing can complement the cloud-based AIoT in terms of communication latency, and hence attracts more and more attention from the AIoT area. In this paper, we present an industrial edge-cloud collaborative computing platform, namely Sophon Edge, that helps to build and deploy AIoT applications efficiently. As an enterprise-level solution for the AIoT computing paradigm, Sophon Edge adopts a pipeline-based computing model for streaming data from IoT devices. Besides, this platform supports an iterative way for model evolution and updating so as to enable the AIoT applications agile and data-driven. Through a real-world example, we demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of building an AIoT application based on the Sophon Edge platform.
Inducing sterile pyramidal neuronal death in mice to model distinct aspects of gray matter encephalitis
Authors: Wilke Justus B. H. , Hindermann Martin , Moussavi Amir , Butt Umer Javed , Dadarwal Rakshit , Berghoff Stefan A. , Sarcheshmeh Aref Kalantari , Ronnenberg Anja , Zihsler Svenja , Arinrad Sahab , Hardeland Rüdiger , Seidel Jan , Lühder Fred , Nave Klaus-Armin , Boretius Susann , Ehrenreich Hannelore
Published: July 2021

Up to one person in a population of 10,000 is diagnosed once in lifetime with an encephalitis, in 50–70% of unknown origin. Recognized causes amount to 20–50% viral infections. Approximately one third of affected subjects develops moderate and severe subsequent damage. Several neurotropic viruses can directly infect pyramidal neurons and induce neuronal death in cortex and hippocampus. The resulting encephalitic syndromes are frequently associated with cognitive deterioration and dementia, but involve numerous parallel and downstream cellular and molecular events that make the interpretation of direct consequences of sudden pyramidal neuronal loss difficult. This, however, would be pivotal for understanding how neuroinflammatory processes initiate the development of neurodegeneration, and thus for targeted prophylactic and therapeutic interventions. Here we utilized adult male NexCreERT2xRosa26-eGFP-DTA (= ‘DTA’) mice for the induction of a sterile encephalitis by diphtheria toxin-mediated ablation of cortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons which also recruits immune cells into gray matter. We report multifaceted aftereffects of this defined process, including the expected pathology of classical hippocampal behaviors, evaluated in Morris water maze, but also of (pre)frontal circuit function, assessed by prepulse inhibition. Importantly, we modelled in encephalitis mice novel translationally relevant sequelae, namely altered social interaction/cognition, accompanied by compromised thermoreaction to social stimuli as convenient readout of parallel autonomic nervous system (dys)function. High resolution magnetic resonance imaging disclosed distinct abnormalities in brain dimensions, including cortical and hippocampal layering, as well as of cerebral blood flow and volume. Fluorescent tracer injection, immunohistochemistry and brain flow cytometry revealed persistent blood–brain-barrier perturbance and chronic brain inflammation. Surprisingly, blood flow cytometry showed no abnormalities in circulating major immune cell subsets and plasma high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) as proinflammatory marker remained unchanged. The present experimental work, analyzing multidimensional outcomes of direct pyramidal neuronal loss, will open new avenues for urgently needed encephalitis research.
Exploratory analysis of machine learning methods in predicting subsurface temperature and geothermal gradient of Northeastern United States
Authors: Shahdi Arya , Lee Seho , Karpatne Anuj , Nojabaei Bahareh
Published: July 2021

Geothermal scientists have used bottom-hole temperature data from extensive oil and gas well datasets to generate heat flow and temperature-at-depth maps to locate potential geothermally active regions. Considering that there are some uncertainties and simplifying assumptions associated with the current state of physics-based models, in this study, the applicability of several machine learning models is evaluated for predicting temperature-at-depth and geothermal gradient parameters. Through our exploratory analysis, it is found that XGBoost and Random Forest result in the highest accuracy for subsurface temperature prediction. Furthermore, we apply our model to regions around the sites to provide 2D continuous temperature maps at three different depths using XGBoost model, which can be used to locate prospective geothermally active regions. We also validate the proposed XGBoost and DNN models using an extra dataset containing measured temperature data along the depth for 58 wells in the state of West Virginia. Accuracy measures show that machine learning models are highly comparable to the physics-based model and can even outperform the thermal conductivity model. Also, a geothermal gradient map is derived for the whole region by fitting linear regression to the XGBoost-predicted temperatures along the depth. Finally, through our analysis, the most favorable geological locations are suggested for potential future geothermal developments.
Clinical features, radiological profiles, pathological features and surgical outcomes of pituicytomas: a report of 11 cases and a pooled analysis of individual patient data
Authors: Cheng Jian-Hua , Nie Ding , Li Bin , Gui Song-Bai , Li Chu-Zhong , Zhang Ya-Zhuo , Cavallo Luigi Maria , Zhao Peng
Published: July 2021

Background

Pituicytoma is an extremely rare low-grade glial tumor that is closely related to the neurohypophysis axis. Most studies of pituicytomas include only several cases. To better understand this disease, we reviewed a series of cases of pituicytomas. The diagnosis and treatment of pituicytoma must be further elucidated.

Methods

Eleven patients with pituicytoma admitted to Beijing Tiantan Hospital from 2012 to 2019 were selected. The clinical features, including radiological and histological examination, surgical records and prognosis were reviewed. Sixty-eight other previously published cases of pituicytoma also were used to analyze the predictive factors for the results. The Cox regression model was used for univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Our patients included 5 males (45.5%) and 6 females (54.5%), with a mean age of 49.3 years. The tumor was located in the suprasellar region in 5 patients (45.5%), intrasellar region in 4 patients (36.4%), and intrasellar-suprasellar region in 2 patients (18.2%). All patients were misdiagnosed with other common tumors in the sellar region before the operation. During the operation, gross total resection (GTR) of the tumor was achieved in 6 patients (54.5%), and subtotal resection (STR) was achieved in 5 patients (45.5%). The mean progression-free survival (PFS) time was 29.82 months. Tumor progression after surgical resection occurred in 4 patients (36.4%). Among them, 60.0% of the patients (cases 4, 5, 7) with STR experienced progression, while 16.7% of the patients (case 2) with GTR experienced progression. Combined with the 68 cases in the literature, GTR was an independent risk factor for PFS time (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Pituicytomas are more common in middle-aged people and the sellar region. The clinical manifestations of pituicytomas are different, but no diagnostic clinical features have been identified other than an abnormally abundant blood supply. Currently, GTR is the best approach for the treatment of pituicytomas. More patients and longer follow-up periods were needed to further elucidate the biological features of pituicytomas.
A prospective, randomized controlled, double-blinded study comparing dexmedetomidine and clonidine as an adjuvant to ropivacaine in femoral nerve block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Suresh Aathira , Fultambkar Gajanan , Vijayanand B. , Nair Abhijit
Published: July 2021

Background

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) causes significant postoperative pain, imposing a limitation on postoperative mobilization crucial in regaining joint function. Ultrasound (US)-guided femoral nerve block (FNB) in complex knee surgeries is associated with better pain scores and fewer hospital admissions. Alpha-2 (α2) adrenoreceptor agonists have been the recent focus of interest as additives to local anesthetic. We aimed to compare the equivalent dose of dexmedetomidine and clonidine as an adjuvant to ropivacaine in US-guided FNB in TKA. A prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blinded study was conducted involving 80 American Society of Anesthesiologists’ physical status (ASA-PS) I, II, and III patients scheduled to undergo TKA under subarachnoid block. Group 1 (n = 40) patients received 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and group 2 (n = 40) patients with 1 μg/kg clonidine as adjuvants added to 20 ml of 0.75% ropivacaine. Duration of postoperative analgesia, pain scores, sedation scores, hemodynamics, rescue analgesia requirement, complications, and patient satisfaction were compared.

Results

The total duration of analgesia in group 1 was better compared to group 2 (p < 0.001).

The patients were better sedated and the mean NRS scores were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in group 1 up to 24 h postoperatively. Total analgesic consumption was reduced in group 1, with a p value < 0.001. Patient satisfaction was significantly better (p < 0.001) in group 1 compared to group 2.

Conclusion

We conclude that dexmedetomidine added as an adjuvant in FNB increased the duration of analgesia when compared to clonidine with decreased NRS scores, reduced postoperative tramadol requirement, and better sedation and patient satisfaction.

Trial registration

Researchregistry6709, “Retrospectively registered” on 31 March 2021.
Thymic carcinoma with extrinsic occlusion of the left anterior descending artery: a distinctive case of myocardial infarction in a young woman
Authors: Ayuna Ahmed , Ahmad Saad , Alam Sjirjel , Abidin Nik
Published: July 2021

Background

Thymic epithelial tumour (TET) is the most common tumour affecting the anterior mediastinum in adults. The cardiac extension is often limited to the pericardium, and intracardiac extension is rare. We present a unique case of encasement and displacement of the left anterior descending coronary artery by the large mediastinal tumour leading to myocardial ischemia.

Case presentation

Our patient is a 28-year-old lady with stage 4 TET. She presented with acute chest pain associated with 12-lead ECG changes and a significant rise in serial troponin I. Multimodality cardiac imaging revealed encasement and displacement of the left anterior descending coronary artery by the large mediastinal tumour. CT-FFR demonstrates evidence of ischemia which would account for her acute presentation. Following detailed MDT discussions between cardiologists, oncologists and cardiothoracic surgeons, the decision was made to treat this lady with palliative chemotherapy. Given the extent of the tumour invasion and failure of the initial therapy, her prognosis and the outcome were poor.

Conclusions

TET could cause atrial compression, myocardial infiltration, and invasion of the pulmonary and caval veins; however, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reported of coronary artery displacement and encasement by TET.
The Regulation of Circulating Hepatokines by Fructose Ingestion in Humans
Authors: Richter Michael M , Plomgaard Peter
Published: July 2021

Context

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), follistatin, angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4), and growth differential factor 15 (GDF15) are regulated by energy metabolism. Recent findings in humans demonstrate that fructose ingestion increases circulating FGF21, with increased response in conditions of insulin resistance.

Objective

This study examines the acute effect of fructose and somatostatin on circulating FGF21, follistatin, ANGPTL4, and GDF15 in humans.

Methods

Plasma FGF21, follistatin, ANGPTL4, and GDF15 concentrations were measured in response to oral ingestion of 75 g of fructose in 10 young healthy males with and without a 15-minute infusion of somatostatin to block insulin secretion. A control infusion of somatostatin was also performed in the same subjects.

Results

Following fructose ingestion, plasma FGF21 peaked at 3.7-fold higher than basal concentration (P < 0.05), and it increased 4.9-fold compared with basal concentration (P < 0.05) when somatostatin was infused. Plasma follistatin increased 1.8-fold after fructose ingestion (P < 0.05), but this increase was blunted by concomitant somatostatin infusion. For plasma ANGPTL4 and GDF15, no increases were obtained following fructose ingestion. Infusion of somatostatin alone slightly increased plasma FGF21 and follistatin.

Conclusion

Here we show that in humans (1) the fructose-induced increase in plasma FGF21 was enhanced when somatostatin was infused, suggesting an inhibitory role of insulin on the fructose-induced FGF21 increase; (2) fructose ingestion also increased plasma follistatin, but somatostatin infusion blunted the increase; and (3) fructose ingestion had no stimulating effect on ANGPTL4 and GDF15 levels, demonstrating differences in the hepatokine response to fructose ingestion.
Geniac: Automatic Configuration GENerator and Installer for nextflow pipelines
Authors: Allain Fabrice , Roméjon Julien , La Rosa Philippe , Jarlier Frédéric , Servant Nicolas , Hupé Philippe
Published: July 2021

With the advent of high-throughput biotechnological platforms and their ever-growing capacity, life science has turned into a digitized, computational and data-intensive discipline. As a consequence, standard analysis with a bioinformatics pipeline in the context of routine production has become a challenge such that the data can be processed in real-time and delivered to the end-users as fast as possible. The usage of workflow management systems along with packaging systems and containerization technologies offer an opportunity to tackle this challenge. While very powerful, they can be used and combined in multiple ways thus increasing their usage complexity. Therefore, guidelines and protocols are required in order to detail how the source code of the bioinformatics pipeline should be written and organized to ensure its usability, maintainability, interoperability, sustainability, portability, reproducibility, scalability and efficiency. Capitalizing on Nextflow, Conda, Docker, Singularity and the nf-core initiative, we propose a set of best practices along the development life cycle of the bioinformatics pipeline and deployment for production operations which address different expert communities including i) the bioinformaticians and statisticians ii) the software engineers and iii) the data managers and core facility engineers. We implemented Geniac (Automatic Configuration GENerator and Installer for nextflow pipelines) which consists of a toolbox with three components: i) a technical documentation available at https://geniac.readthedocs.io to detail coding guidelines for the bioinformatics pipeline with Nextflow, ii) a linter to check that the code respects the guidelines, and iii) an add-on to generate configuration files, build the containers and deploy the pipeline. The Geniac toolbox aims at the harmonization of development practices across developers and automation of the generation of configuration files and containers by parsing the source code of the Nextflow pipeline. The Geniac toolbox and two demo pipelines are available on GitHub. This article presents the main functionalities of Geniac.
Always leave the audience wanting more: An entertaining approach to stimulate engagement with health research among publics in coastal Kenya through ‘Magnet Theatre’
Authors: Sanga Gladys , Jao Irene , Mumba Noni , Mwalukore Salim , Kamuya Dorcas , Davies Alun
Published: July 2021

Background: Magnet Theatre (MT), a form of participatory community theatre, is one of several public engagement approaches used to facilitate engagement between KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) researchers and public audiences in Coastal Kenya. We describe how we used MT as an entertaining forum where audiences learn about research, and where researchers learn about how the public views research.

Methods: Drama scripts depicting community interaction with different aspects of research were developed iteratively with research staff, a theatre company and community members. Six fortnightly theatre outreaches per site over two months, attracting a total of 1454 audience members were held in Mida, a rural village 30 km north of Kilifi; and in Mtwapa, a peri-urban town 45 km to the south. Audiences were presented with dramatized health research-related dilemmas and subsequently invited to enact their responses. Evaluation comprised, notes and observations from meetings, rehearsals and outreaches, transcripts from a review workshop with repeat audience members (n=21), a reflection meeting with KWTRP engagement staff (n=12), and a group discussion with the theatre company (n=9). Discussions were recorded, transcribed, translated to English and analysed using thematic approach.

Results: Despite being costly in terms of time and expense, we argue that MT in public spaces can assist audience members to navigate ‘border-crossings’ between everyday contexts and scientific/research concepts. This can enable audiences to share their views and concerns and enact their responses to research-related dilemmas.

Conclusions: While reporting on MT’s successes, drawing from literature on rumours, we acknowledge the limitations of individual engagement activities in providing long-term solutions to address alternative interpretations and rumours about research, in the context of local and global inequities. MT, however, presents an opportunity for researchers to express respect to public audiences through making research more accessible and providing opportunities to listen to public views and concerns.
From severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): a systematic review of the quality and responsiveness of clinical management guidelines in outbreak settings
Authors: Lipworth Samuel , Rigby Ishmeala , Cheng Vincent , Bannister Peter , Harriss Eli , Cook Karen , Cai Erhui , Tattan Mais , Epie Terrence , Manoharan Lakshmi , Lambe Kate , Michelen Melina , Vila-Gilibets Anna , Hart Peter , Groves Helen , Dagens Andrew , Sigfrid Louise , Horby Peter
Published: July 2021

Background: Clinical management guidelines (CMGs) can be useful tools to guide clinician’s decision making and enable consistent evidence-based high-quality care. Here, we assessed whether their objective quality has improved over time by considering CMGs for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and from different timepoints for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods: We performed a rapid literature review, quality assessment and focus group consultation. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE-II) tool was used to evaluate the quality of the CMGs. In total, six COVID-19 treatments were selected to assess the responsiveness of a subset of guidelines and their updates to 20th November 2020. We ran two sessions of focus groups with patient advocates to elicit their views on guideline development.

Results: We included 37 COVID-19, six SARS, and four MERS CMGs. Evidence appraisals in CMGs generally focused on novel drugs rather than basic supportive care; where evidence for the latter was provided it was generally of a low quality. Most CMGs had major methodological flaws and there was no evidence of improvement in quality over time. CMGs scored lowest in the following AGREE-II domains: scope and purpose, editorial independence, stakeholder engagement, and rigour of development. Of the COVID-19 CMGs, only eight included specific guidance for the management of elderly patients and only ten for high-risk groups; a further eight did not specify the target patient group. Early in the pandemic, multiple guidelines recommended unproven treatments and whilst in general findings of major clinical trials were eventually adopted, this was not universally the case.

Conclusions: The quality of most CMGs produced in coronaviridae outbreaks is poor and we have found limited evidence of improvement over time, highlighting that current development frameworks must be improved.

PROSPERO registration: CRD42020167361 (17/02/2020)
Rehabilitation and palliative care: histories, dialectics and challenges
Authors: Timm Helle , Thuesen Jette , Clark David
Published: July 2021

Rehabilitation and palliative care are health care fields with separate histories but some recent convergences. Both have been identified as components within universal health coverage and each is the subject of a supportive World Health Assembly Resolution. We draw on the historiography of the two specialties, a recent systematic review of their engagement with each other as described in 62 studies, and critical policy perspectives to examine how rehabilitation and palliative care have been framed as potential partners in care. We examine the changing patient groups served by each field and the organizational forms that combined rehabilitation and palliative care (CRPC) may take. We explore the implications of such collaboration for the underlying goals and values of the two specialties, where each is the subject of changing definitions with differing responsibilities for regulating access to services as well as assuring and documenting quality. We conclude that to be effective CRPC must adapt to the highly segmented and specialized systems in which it is required to operate, recognizing that rehabilitation and palliative care are themselves co-constructors of such segmentation and specialization, but also potential agents for change.
Current Concepts of Anterior Interosseous Nerve Syndrome
Authors: Chae Seungbum , Kim Jongmin , Park Il-Jung
Published: July 2021

The causes and treatment of anterior interosseous nerve syndrome have not been established yet. Two causes are known, as a result of compressive neuropathy and as a result of neuralgic amyotrophy. An hourglass-like constriction found in the main trunk of the median nerve suggests a new paradigm for the cause and treatment of anterior interosseous nerve syndrome. It is necessary to differentiate it from other diseases through a meticulous physical examination, and surgical treatment is recommended only when there are no other related neurological lesions and no improvement despite conservative treatment for more than 6 months.
Gênero, cuidado e envelhecimento: um estudo sobre um grupo de mulheres idosas praticantes de pilates em Buenos Aires (AR)
Authors: Bitencourt Silvana Maria
Published: July 2021

O artigo investiga um grupo de mulheres idosas praticantes de pilates e tem como objetivo principal investigar como elas cuidam-se na contemporaneidade. A metodologia utilizada consistiu em um trabalho de campo e entrevistas semiestruturadas.  Constatou-se que a grande maioria decidiu fazer atividades físicas por indicação médica. Contudo, a possibilidade de estar cuidando-se junto com outras mulheres contribui para despertarem para o autoconhecimento de seus corpos/emoções.
Memorial
Authors: Manhães Prado Rosane
Published: July 2021

Este memorial foi defendido no dia 24 de fevereiro de 2021. A banca examinadora foi composta pelos Profs. Patrícia Birman (presidente), Carlos Alberto Steil, Gláucia Oliveira da Silva, José Sérgio Leite Lopes, Myrian Sepúlveda dos Santos.
Exclusive breastfeeding practice and associated factors among rural mothers with 6–12-month-old children in west Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Nemera Bedasa , Merga Hailu
Published: July 2021

Background/aims

Despite the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for children, the practice is not widespread in low-income countries, including Ethiopia, especially in rural settings. This study aimed to determine exclusive breastfeeding practice and associated factors among mothers with 6–12-month-old children in west Oromia, Ethiopia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 391 randomly selected mothers with 6–12-month-old children in Amuru, Ethiopia. Data on breastfeeding practice were collected using a structured questionnaire, adapted from the Ethiopian Health and Demographic Survey. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. Factors that were significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding at univariate analysis were then submitted to binary logistic regression, with P<0.05 considered significant.

Results

Of the 391 respondents, 48.1% of the mothers reported exclusively breastfeeding their children. Factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding were: mother aged 21–25 years old (adjusted odds ratio=5.1, P<0.0001), husband`s educational status (adjusted odds ratio=2.8, P<0.0001), owning a radio (adjusted odds ratio=2.8, P<0.0001), antenatal care attendance (adjusted odds ratio=9.2, P<0.0001), delivery at a health institution (adjusted odds ratio=4.3, P<0.0001) and initiating breastfeeding within an hour of birth (adjusted odds ratio=4.2, P<0.0001).

Conclusions

The exclusive breastfeeding rate was low among mothers in this study. Health education should be provided to mothers at the community and health facility level. The quality of maternity services provided at health facilities or in the community needs improvement by providing pre-service and in-service training to health workers. Moreover, facility-based birth and respectful care needs promotion.
Investigations on the Effects of Salts and Carbohydrates on L-Lysine in Aqueous System at T=293.15K
Authors: Sharma Rajesh Kumar , Sharma Priyanka
Published: July 2021

Physicochemical studies of amino acids in an aqueous medium can provide significant knowledge about the stabilization mechanism of proteins.In this study, the viscosity (ƞ), surface tension (γ), density (ρ) and the specific conductance (κ) measurements have been carried out for amino acid L-lysine (0.02 to 1.6M) in aqueous solutions at 293.15K. The experimental data shows that there is an increase in the viscosity, surface tension, conductance, and density of the L-lysine with and without glucose, sucrose, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride with concentration.The solute-solute and solute-solvent interactions have been discussed on the basis of all physicochemical parameters.
Time Domain Reflectometric Studies on Methylcellosolve – Acetylacetone Binary Solutions
Authors: Pandi Dineshkumar , paramasivam Naganandhini , Tiruchithan Sangeetha , Ganesan Arivazhagan
Published: July 2021

Time Domain Reflectometric studies has been applied on the binary solutions of methylcellosolve (MCS) with acetylacetone (ACACT) in the entire concentration range at 298 K in the frequency range of 10 MHz – 32 GHz. The values of relaxation time (τ), effective Kirkwood correlation factor (geff ), corrective Kirkwood correlation factor (gf ) and excess permittivity (εE ) have been calculated. The relaxation time of MCS slowly decreases with increase in ACACT concentration suggesting that the size of the heteroassociated rotating unit decreases. The rate at which τ value decreases is more in MCS rich solutions which means that the formation of heteromolecular H – bonds dominantly occur in MCS rich solutions. Parallel orientation among the dipoles occur as suggested by the g^eff values which are greater than unity in all the solutions. The excess permittivity ε^E values calculated using mole and volume fractions qualitatively exhibit the same deviation from ideal behaviour.
Effects of imatinib on vascular insulin sensitivity and free fatty acid transport in early weight gain
Authors: Box Camiel V. J. , Sandhu Amandeep K. , Turaihi Alexander H. , Xiaoké Pan , Dallinga-Thie Geesje , Aman Jurjan , Eringa Etto C.
Published: July 2021

Background

Vascular endothelial dysfunction is an essential part of the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes and its complications. In type 2 diabetes, endothelial dysfunction is characterized by reduced insulin signaling and increased transendothelial transport of fatty acids (FA). As the Abl kinase inhibitor imatinib was previously shown to reverse type 2 diabetes and to inhibit VEGF signaling via Abl kinases, we studied the effect of imatinib on vascular insulin sensitivity and fatty acid transport in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

C57/BL6J mice were fed a chow diet or Western diet (WD), and received daily imatinib injections for two weeks. Insulin-mediated vasoreactivity of resistance arteries was studied using intravital microscopy, and metabolic insulin sensitivity using the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp. The effect of imatinib on triglyceride content in skeletal muscle and heart in vivo was also determined. In vitro, the effect of imatinib on fatty acid transport was studied in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by evaluating the effect of imatinib on fluorescently labeled FA uptake both under basal and VEGF-B-stimulated conditions.

Results

Imatinib prevented the WD-induced weight gain in mice, independently from food intake. In line with this, imatinib enhanced insulin-mediated vasoreactivity of resistance arteries in the WD-fed mice. However, imatinib did not affect triglyceride content in muscle. In cultured endothelial cells, VEGF-B stimulation resulted in a time-dependent uptake of fatty acids in parallel with increased phosphorylation of the Abl kinase substrate Crk-like protein (CrkL) at Tyr207. Although imatinib effectively prevented VEGF-B-mediated Abl kinase activation, it had no effect on VEGF-B mediated endothelial FA uptake.

Conclusion

Imatinib prevents weight gain and preserves insulin-mediated vasodilation in WD-fed mice, but does not affect endothelial FA transport despite inhibiting VEGF-B signaling. The beneficial effect of imatinib on insulin-mediated vasodilation may contribute to the anti-diabetic effects of imatinib.
Efficacy of duloxetine compared with opioid for postoperative pain control following total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Kim Man Soo , Koh In Jun , Choi Keun Young , Yang Sung Cheol , In Yong
Published: July 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of duloxetine as an alternative to opioid treatment for postoperative pain management following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

Among 944 patients, 290 (30.7%) of patients received opioid or duloxetine for pain control for 6 weeks when the pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score was greater than 4 out of 10 at the time of discharge. 121 patients in the Opioid group and 118 in the Duloxetine group were followed up for more than one year. Preoperative and postoperative patient reported outcome measures (pain VAS score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index (WOMAC) score were compared. The rate of further drug prescription (opioid or duloxetine) after 6 weeks of first prescription, 30-day readmission rate, and side effects were also investigated.

Results

There was no significant difference in pain VAS score, WOMAC Pain and Function score, at each time point between before and after surgery (all p>0.05). Fifteen (9.8%) patients in the opioid group and six (4.4%) patients in the duloxetine group were prescribed additional medication after first 6 weeks, showing no significant (p>0.05) difference in proportion. The 30-day readmission rate and the incidence of side effects were also similar (all p>0.05). There was no difference in the incidence of side effects between the two groups (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Duloxetine and opioid did not show any difference in pain control, function, and side effects for up to one year after TKA. Although large-scale randomized controlled trials are still required to further confirm the side effects of duloxetine, it can be considered as an alternative to opioid for postoperative pain control following TKA.