bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Institutionalizing evidence-based STEM reform through faculty professional development and support structures
Authors: Biswas Sreyasi , Benabentos Rocio , Brewe Eric , Potvin Geoff , Edward Julian , Kravec Marcy , Kramer Laird
Published: May 2022

Background

Even though student-centered instruction leads to positive student outcomes, direct instruction methods are still prevalent. Multiple barriers prevent faculty from further adopting evidence-based student-centered practices and holistic approaches to faculty support are necessary to promote faculty change. The Collaborative for Institutionalizing Scientific Learning (CISL) is an HHMI-funded program to reform undergraduate science and mathematics education at a large Hispanic-Serving public research university. The program has established a Faculty Scholar support model to impact the number of science and mathematics faculty using evidence-based practices in their classrooms. Through this program, Scholars are selected to undertake a transformation of a course of their choice and conduct an assessment of the impact of the reform on students—while receiving multiple supports including summer salary, undergraduate Learning Assistants, professional development, course assessment and education research support, and opportunities to develop manuscripts on their course transformations.

Results

CISL has supported over 40 Faculty Scholars in the transformation of both introductory and upper division biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics courses. Faculty are motivated to transform a course due to factors related to their own experiences and beliefs, their students’ needs, the course structure, and/or departmental elements. Quantitative analysis of the impact of the project on student success show that, overall, students in CISL-supported courses have higher passing rates compared to students in traditional classrooms. Survey and interviews of Faculty Scholars identified that the most valuable elements of the program were the personnel support from undergraduate Learning Assistants during reform implementation and guidance from the program’s Assistant Director during design, implementation and evaluation.

Conclusions

The CISL program provides an example of significant effort sustained over several years to systematically improve the quality and culture of undergraduate education in a large research-intensive Hispanic Serving Institution. The program has had an overall positive impact on the professional development of Faculty Scholars and led to an increase in the number of STEM courses implementing evidence-based teaching practices, thus, taking a step towards solidifying a culture of evidence-based instructional strategies in STEM departments.
Perspectives from healthcare professionals on the nutritional adequacy of plant-based dairy alternatives: results of a mixed methods inquiry
Authors: Clark Bridget E. , Pope Lizzy , Belarmino Emily H.
Published: May 2022

Background

Healthcare professionals are important sources of nutrition and health information for Americans. As plant-based (PB) dairy alternative products increase in popularity, concerns have been raised about their nutritional adequacy, and whether consumers understand nutritional differences to dairy. Healthcare professionals directly advise consumers on dietary choices, therefore we sought to examine their understanding and opinions of PB dairy alternatives.

Methods

We analyzed comments submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by health professionals (n = 191) in 2018–2019 in response to a request for public comment on the nutrition of PB dairy alternatives and the use of dairy terms like “milk”, “cheese”, and “yogurt” on their labels. Survey data from healthcare professionals (n = 417) was collected in 2020–2021. Comments and survey responses to open-ended questions were coded using template analysis and thematically analyzed. Logistic regression models examined perceptions across health professional characteristics for close-ended survey responses.

Results

Three-fourths of health professionals believe consumers are confused about the nutritional differences between dairy and PB dairy alternatives. Over half (53%) do not believe either product is nutritionally superior to the other. Many believe dairy products have higher nutrient value, but also believe PB dairy alternatives can be part of a healthful diet. Compared to other types of health professionals, dietetics professionals demonstrated a more accurate understanding of the nutritional value of both products and were more likely to believe nutrients like protein (OR 2.02; 95% CI 1.22–3.34, p = 0.006) and vitamin D (OR 2.46; 95% CI 1.48–4.09, p = 0.001) may be nutrients of concern for PB dairy alternative consumers. They were also more likely to believe consumers are confused about these products (OR 3.44; 95% CI 1.65–7.21; p = 0.001). Health professionals who submitted comments to the FDA showed stronger opinions in favor of PB dairy alternatives.

Conclusions

Although PB dairy alternatives have nutritional value in certain diets, responses from health professionals suggest that changing their labeling to be different than dairy may reduce confusion. Improved nutrition education among health professionals may also be necessary.
Inhibition of USP14 suppresses ferroptosis and inflammation in LPS-induced goat mammary epithelial cells through ubiquitylating the IL-6 protein
Authors: Zhu Guangqin , Sui Shaopu , Shi Fengyun , Wang Qinglin
Published: May 2022

Background

Ferroptosis, a novel manner of cell death depended on iron ion, contributed to goat mammary epithelial cell dysfunction. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a major pro-inflammatory factor during many inflammation-related diseases including mastitis, and a quite recently identified ferroptosis inducer. This study aims to explore the role of IL-6 in the dysfunction of goat mammary epithelial cells (GMECs) and how the level of IL-6 was regulated.

Methods

Primary GMECs were isolated, cultured and treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) alone or together with Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), a well-known ferroptosis inhibitor. CCK-8 was used to detect cell viability, ELISA was used to detect TNF-α content, and the levels of ROS, GSH and MDA were analyzed with DCFDA-cell ROS detection kit, GSH assay kit and MDA assay kit, respectively. The iron ion level was measured with an iron assay kit.

Results

The expression level of IL-6 protein in GMECs was up-regulated in response to LPS treatment, and the secretion of TNF-α, the cell oxidative stress level and the Fe2+ ion content was robustly increased, which could be reversed by Fer-1 treatment. Knockdown of IL-6 decreased cell oxidative stress level and inhibited ferroptosis in LPS-treated GMECs. Further, ubiquitin experiment and co-immunoprecipitation assay showed that USP14 upregulated IL-6 protein expression by reducing the ubiquitination of IL-6, and overexpression of IL-6 reversed the inhibitory effect of USP14 shRNA on LPS-treated GMECs ferroptosis. The NRF2 inhibitor Brusatol reversed the inhibitory effect of IL-6 shRNA on LPS-treated ferroptosis.

Conclusion

IL-6 protein is deubiquitinated by USP14 and upregulated in LPS-treated GMECs, further promoting ferroptosis and inflammation through the NRF2 signaling pathway.
Effect of Erythropoietin-stimulating agent on uremic neuropathy in hemodialysis patients: a single-center open-label prospective study
Authors: Khafagi Amal T. , Yehia Mohamed A. , Helmy Amal K. , Hassan Waleed , Abdelhakim Nashwa
Published: May 2022

Background

Uremic neuropathy is a distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy caused by uremic toxins; its severity is correlated with the degree of renal insufficiency. Erythropoietin (EPO) and erythropoietin receptors (EpoR) are produced in the peripheral nervous system. This is a single-center open-label prospective study was designed to investigate the possible effect of erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) on uremic neuropathy. Twenty-four newly diagnosed end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients were selected, clinical assessment, laboratory, and neurophysiological study were done at 1 and follow-up after 3 months. Patients were divided into two groups (group A received ESA and group B did not receive ESA).

Results

Eighteen patients completed the study, eight patients (44.4%) did not have symptoms but had electrophysiological findings of neuropathy (subclinical neuropathy). After 3 months of hemodialysis, patients in group A showed improvement of some electrophysiological features (ulnar MNCV; P = 0.016).

Conclusions

The use of ESA may improve uremic neuropathy in patients with newly diagnosed ESKD who have been started on hemodialysis.
Relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and epilepsy: a literature review
Authors: Ahmed Gellan K. , Darwish Alaa M. , Khalifa Hossam , Haridy Nourelhoda A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurological disorder. ADHD has been linked to epilepsy.

Main body

ADHD was found to be present in 30–40% of epileptic children. Researchers have developed numerous theories to explain how and why ADHD and epilepsy coexist. Whether ADHD and epilepsy symptoms are caused by co-occurring psychiatric disorders or by the temporary effects of epileptic discharges or by antiepileptic medicines is critical to consider. Diagnosis and treatment of individuals with ADHD and epilepsy are complicated and challenging from the clinical base.

Conclusions

Comorbidity between ADHD and epilepsy is still challenging to understand. The two diseases have a bidirectional link, so the association may not be coincidental. A disputable point is whether co-occurring ADHD and epilepsy symptoms represent a comorbid psychiatric disorder or are the epileptic discharges’ temporary effects, and are they related to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). It is recommended to follow up with children with epilepsy or ADHD as they may develop comorbidity after a while.
Effect of caudal dexmedetomidine versus ketamine in prevention of emergence delirium in pediatric patients undergoing congenital inguinal hernia repair under sevoflurane anesthesia
Authors: Fahim Hany Magdy , Menshawi Mohammed Abdelsalam
Published: May 2022

Study objective

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of dexmedetomidine versus ketamine when added to caudal bupivacaine on the incidence of emergence delerium (ED), postoperative sedation, and analgesia in pediatric patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair under sevoflurane anesthesia.

Methods

Eighty seven pediatric patients who underwent elective inguinal hernia repair under sevoflurane anesthesia were randomly distributed into one of three equal groups. Group B (bupivacaine, n = 29), group BK (bupivacaine ketamine, n = 29), and group BD (bupivacaine dexmedetomidine, n = 29). Patients of group B received caudal injectate of 1 ml/kg bupivacaine 0.25%, while group BK patients received caudal injectate of 1 ml/kg bupivacaine 0.25% mixed with ketamine 0.5 mg/kg, and group BD patients received caudal injectate of 1 ml/kg bupivacaine 0.25% mixed with dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg. Primary outcome measure was the assessment of the incidence of postoperative ED. Secondary outcomes included the postoperative sedation scores and postoperative Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability (FLACC) pain scores, time to 1st postoperative analgesic, and total postoperative analgesic consumption. Also, the incidence of perioperative complications were assessed.

Results

The incidence of ED was significantly lower in group BD and BK compared with group B (P < 0.05) with no significant difference between group BD and BK (P > 0.05). Postoperative sedation scores were significantly higher in group BK and BD compared with group B (P < 0.05) at the 1st 30 min and 1st 2 h postoperative respectively; they were also significantly higher in group BD compared with group BK at (10 min–2 h) postoperative (P < 0.05). The duration of analgesia was significantly longer, and the total postoperative paracetamol consumption was significantly lower in group BD and BK compared with group B (P < 0.05); they were also significantly lower in group BD compared with group BK (P < 0.05). There was no intergroup significant difference as regards the incidence of perioperative complications.

Conclusions

Both dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg) and ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) added to pediatric caudal block were effective to control pediatric ED after sevoflurane anesthesia. Patients received caudal dexmedetomidine had longer time to 1st postoperative analgesia and less postoperative analgesic consumption but longer postoperative sedation when compared with ketamine with no significant difference between both drugs as regards the incidence of perioperative adverse events.
Establishing multi-perspective instruments in early education during COVID-19: measuring the implementation of protective measures and the subjective level of information about pandemic-related regulations
Authors: Wieschke Johannes , Schacht Diana D. , Spensberger Florian , Klinkhammer Nicole , Grgic Mariana
Published: May 2022

This article describes the context, development, objectives, and content of three instruments. They stem from two questionnaires, used in the ERiK-Surveys 2020 and the Corona-KiTa-Study (CKS), two multi-perspective surveys which were developed by the German Youth Institute, to measure quality as well as challenges and solutions of the Corona pandemic in early childhood education and care (ECEC). The three instruments focus on (1) childcare center directors’ subjective level of information about pandemic-related regulations in the ERiK questionnaire and the extent of implementation of (2) hygiene and (3) protective measures in ECEC in the CKS questionnaire. First analyses suggest good performance and quality of the instruments. Further analyses (e.g., regarding validity and reliability) will be carried out. The instruments seem to be promising for future research, for example regarding medical questions in the field of ECEC.
Ethnotherapeutic practice of entomophagy species by the ethnic community of Tangkhul, Mao and Poumai community of Manipur, NER India
Authors: Devi W. D. , Bonysana Rk. , Kapesa K. , Mukherjee P. K. , Rajashekar Y.
Published: May 2022

Insects are important bioresources as they supply numerous tangible and intangible benefits to humans. Day-to-day livings of many communities in the world are associated with insects as food, medicine, social beliefs, livelihood and other aspects. Many communities from immemorial time traditionally practice insects as food (entomophagy). People consumed insects for delicacy and nutritional purposes. However, some entomophagy species have medicinal value and many traditional healers used them for the treatment of various health ailments like sore throat, mouth ulcers, jaundice, body ache, wound healing, etc. In India, such traditions are widely practised in Northeast India more than other states of India. The focus of this research is on the traditional knowledge of entomophagy species having medicinal properties and social beliefs that are practised by the Tangkhul, Mao and Poumai ethnic community of Manipur, northeast region of India. Review literature was conducted through published journal paper, books and other electronic resources along with questioner’s survey. The present study recorded nine entomophagy species and four species having social beliefs according to the local people. This traditional knowledge is inherent from generation to generation, and to conserve such precious indigenous knowledge, proper documentation is necessary. The documented information on the ethnic therapeutic knowledge of the important entomo-therapeutics species of the local community can be transferred to modern pharmacology.
Morphometric analysis for prioritizing sub-watersheds of Murredu River basin, Telangana State, India, using a geographical information system
Authors: Shekar Padala Raja , Mathew Aneesh
Published: May 2022

The Murredu watershed in Telangana State was chosen for the morphometric and land use/land cover (LULC) analysis in this current study. Geographical information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) techniques can estimate the morphometric features and LULC analysis of a catchment. A total of fourteen sub-watersheds (SWs) were created from the watershed (SW 1 to SW 14), and sub-watersheds were prioritized based on morphometric and LULC features. Evaluation of various morphometric characteristics such as linear aspects, relief aspects, and aerial aspects has been carried out for every sub-watershed to prefer ranking. Four parameters were utilized for the LULC analysis to rank and prioritize sub-watersheds. The sub-watersheds were categorized into three groups as low, medium, and high, for soil and water conservation priority based on morphometric and LULC analysis. Using morphometric analysis, higher priorities have been assigned to SW 12 and SW 1, while using LULC analysis, higher priorities have been assigned to SW 9 and SW 11. SW 10 and SW 13 are the most common sub-watersheds that fall within the same priority while using morphometric and LULC analysis. The coefficient of regression results reveals that stream length and stream order, and also stream number and stream order, have a strong association. The deployment of soil and water conservation measures may be conducted in the high-priority sub-watersheds.
Exercise, Diet, and Weight Management During Cancer Treatment: ASCO Guideline
Authors: Ligibel Jennifer A. , Bohlke Kari , May Anne M. , Clinton Steven K. , Demark-Wahnefried Wendy , Gilchrist Susan C. , Irwin Melinda L. , Late Michele , Mansfield Sami , Marshall Timothy F. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Thomson Cynthia A. , Wood William A. , Alfano Catherine M.
Published: May 2022

PURPOSE

To provide guidance on exercise, diet, and weight management during active cancer treatment in adults.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature identified systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials evaluating the impact of aerobic and resistance exercise, specific diets and foods, and intentional weight loss and avoidance of weight gain in adults during cancer treatment, on quality of life, treatment toxicity, and cancer control. PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched from January 2000 to May 2021. ASCO convened an Expert Panel to review the evidence and formulate recommendations.

RESULTS

The evidence base consisted of 52 systematic reviews (42 for exercise, nine for diet, and one for weight management), and an additional 23 randomized controlled trials. The most commonly studied types of cancer were breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal. Exercise during cancer treatment led to improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, fatigue, and other patient-reported outcomes. Preoperative exercise in patients with lung cancer led to a reduction in postoperative length of hospital stay and complications. Neutropenic diets did not decrease risk of infection during cancer treatment.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Oncology providers should recommend regular aerobic and resistance exercise during active treatment with curative intent and may recommend preoperative exercise for patients undergoing surgery for lung cancer. Neutropenic diets are not recommended to prevent infection in patients with cancer during active treatment. Evidence for other dietary and weight loss interventions during cancer treatment was very limited. The guideline discusses special considerations, such as exercise in individuals with advanced cancer, and highlights the critical need for more research in this area, particularly regarding diet and weight loss interventions during cancer treatment. Additional information is available at www.asco.org/supportive-care-guidelines .
Financial Assistance Processes and Mechanisms in Rural and Nonrural Oncology Care Settings
Authors: Biddell Caitlin B. , Spees Lisa P. , Petermann Victoria , Rosenstein Donald L. , Manning Michelle , Gellin Mindy , Padilla Neda , Samuel-Ryals Cleo A. , Birken Sarah A. , Reeder-Hayes Katherine , Deal Allison M. , Cabarrus Kendrel , Bell Ronny A. , Strom Carla , DeAntonio Phyllis A. , Young Tiffany H. , King Sherry , Leutner Brian , Vestal Derek , Wheeler Stephanie B.
Published: May 2022

PURPOSE:

Patients with cancer are at heightened risk of experiencing financial hardship. Financial navigation (FN) is an evidence-based approach for identifying and addressing patient and caregiver financial needs. In preparation for the implementation of a multisite FN intervention, we describe existing processes (ie, events and actions) and mechanisms (ie, how events work together) connecting patients to financial assistance, comparing rural and nonrural practices.

METHODS:

We conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with stakeholders (ie, administrators, providers, and staff) at each of the 10 oncology care sites across a single state (five rural and five nonrural practices). We developed process maps for each site and analyzed stakeholder perspectives using thematic analysis. After reporting findings back to stakeholders, we synthesized themes and process maps across rural and nonrural sites separately.

RESULTS:

Eighty-three stakeholders were interviewed. We identified six core elements of existing financial assistance processes across all sites: distress screening (including financial concerns), referrals, resource connection points, and pharmaceutical, insurance, and community/foundation resources. Processes differed by rurality; however, facilitators and barriers to identifying and addressing patient financial needs were consistent. Open communication between staff, providers, patients, and caregivers was a primary facilitator. Barriers included insufficient staff resources, challenges in routinely identifying needs, inadequate preparation of patients for anticipated medical costs, and limited tracking of resource availability and eligibility.

CONCLUSION:

This study identified a clear need for systematic implementation of oncology FN to equitably address patient and caregiver financial hardship. Results have informed our current efforts to implement a multisite FN intervention, which involves comprehensive financial toxicity screening and systematization of intake and referrals.
Runway Hospitality: Air Jamaica's “Rare Tropical Birds” and the Embodied Gender and Race Politics of Tourism, 1966–1980
Authors: Manley Elizabeth S.
Published: May 2022

Launched in 1966, Jamaica's national airline, Air Jamaica, exclusively employed women flight attendants, dubbed “rare tropical birds,” to embody and sell its elevated hospitality. Using Air Jamaica and its flight attendants as a lens on tourism across the region, this article demonstrates how, at midcentury, the industry was a complicated and contradictory mix of optimistic visions of advancement and problematic projections of creolized citizenship, all embedded in an imagery of a consumable Caribbean island paradise. The article interrogates the critical role that Air Jamaica's flight attendants and other women played in selling a harmonious Jamaicanness and idealized island fantasy to global North travelers, particularly in contrast to the larger national project of democratic socialist reform under Michael Manley. Despite efforts to put the tourism industry back into Jamaican hands, the act of trading on a romanticized racial hybridity and gendered, exoticized servility is inextricable from the story of tourism development in Jamaica and the region and points to the many contradictions entrenched (and persistent) in the industry.
An “Ordo-Thinker” on the Left: Jan Tinbergen on the National and International Economic Order
Authors: Dekker Erwin
Published: May 2022

Thinking in terms of order is believed to be a feature of several liberal economic schools, most famously the ordoliberal school. This article demonstrates that the work of Jan Tinbergen provides a good example of “thinking in orders” on the left. His analysis of the national and international economic system is conducted in terms of order, and he believed that economic stability was primarily the result of the institutional order of an economy. This article shows that these ideas were shaped in discussions over the Plan of Labor (comparable to the New Deal) in the Netherlands as well as during his period in Geneva at the League of Nations. Crucial in Tinbergen's work on order is the optimal set of institutions, a so-called optimal order, that specifies the right level of centralization and decentralization in economic decision making. This focus on order is an important move away from the equilibrium-focused work on econometric studies of the business cycle theories of the 1930s. By showing the importance of the discussions in Geneva for Tinbergen's work, the article also problematizes Slobodian's recent argument that the Geneva school was neoliberal in nature. Instead, we demonstrate that it is better understood as internationalist and bipartisan.
On the Necessity of the Categories
Authors: Gomes Anil , Moore A. W. , Stephenson Andrew
Published: May 2022

For Kant, the human cognitive faculty has two subfaculties: sensibility and the understanding. Each has pure forms that are necessary to us as humans: space and time for sensibility; the categories for the understanding. But Kant is careful to leave open the possibility of there being creatures like us, with both sensibility and understanding, who nevertheless have different pure forms of sensibility. They would be finite rational beings and discursive cognizers. But they would not be human. And this raises a question about the pure forms of the understanding. Does Kant leave open the possibility of discursive cognizers who have different categories? Even if other discursive cognizers might not sense like us, must they at least think like us? This essay argues that textual and systematic considerations do not determine the answers to these questions, and it examines whether Kant thinks that the issue cannot be decided. Consideration of his wider views on the nature and limits of our knowledge of mind shows that Kant could indeed remain neutral on the issue but that the exact form his neutrality can take is subject to unexpected constraints. The result would be an important difference between what Kant says about discursive cognizers with other forms of sensibility and what he is in a position to say about discursive cognizers with other forms of understanding. Kantian humility here takes on a distinctive character.
Differences in All-Cause Mortality Among Transgender and Non-Transgender People Enrolled in Private Insurance
Authors: Hughes Landon D. , King Wesley M. , Gamarel Kristi E. , Geronimus Arline T. , Panagiotou Orestis A. , Hughto Jaclyn M.W.
Published: May 2022

Few studies have analyzed mortality rates among transgender (trans) populations in the United States and compared them to the rates of non-trans populations. Using private insurance data from 2011 to 2019, we estimated age-specific all-cause mortality rates among a subset of trans people enrolled in private insurance and compared them to a 10% randomly selected non-trans cohort. Overall, we found that trans people were nearly twice as likely to die over the period as their non-trans counterparts. When stratifying by gender, we found key disparities within trans populations, with people on the trans feminine to nonbinary spectrum being at the greatest risk of mortality compared to non-trans males and females. While we found that people on the trans masculine to nonbinary spectrum were at a similar risk of overall mortality compared to non-trans females, their overall mortality rate was statistically smaller than that of non-trans males. These findings provide evidence that some trans and non-trans populations experience substantially different mortality conditions across the life course and necessitate further study.
Digital Archives and the Literature Classroom
Authors: Mattison Laci , Tait-Ripperdan Rachel
Published: May 2022

This article describes the implementation of and assessment findings for a digital archival assignment in the 3000-level Victorian Literature and Culture course at Florida Gulf Coast University. The assignment utilized ProQuest's database, Queen Victoria's Journals, which comprises the extant journals of Queen Victoria, and demonstrated the value of primary historical research and digital archives in enhancing student content knowledge, information literacy, and critical thinking.
Remaindered Life
Authors: Tadiar Neferti X. M.
Published: May 2022

In Remaindered Life Neferti X. M. Tadiar offers a new conceptual vocabulary and framework for rethinking the dynamics of a global capitalism maintained through permanent imperial war. Tracking how contemporary capitalist accumulation depends on producing life-times of disposability, Tadiar focuses on what she terms remaindered life—practices of living that exceed the distinction between life worth living and life worth expending. Through this heuristic, Tadiar reinterprets the global significance and genealogy of the surplus life-making practices of migrant domestic and service workers, refugees fleeing wars and environmental disasters, criminalized communities, urban slum dwellers, and dispossessed Indigenous people. She also examines artists and filmmakers in the Global South who render forms of various living in the midst of disposability. Retelling the story of globalization from the side of those who reach beyond dominant protocols of living, Tadiar demonstrates how attending to remaindered life can open up another horizon of possibility for a radical remaking of our present global mode of life.
Transcriptomic Profiling Revealed Lnc-GOLGA6A-1 as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker of Meningioma Recurrence
Authors: Slavik Hanus , Balik Vladimir , Kokas Filip Zavadil , Slavkovsky Rastislav , Vrbkova Jana , Rehulkova Alona , Lausova Tereza , Ehrmann Jiri , Gurska Sona , Uberall Ivo , Hajduch Marian , Srovnal Josef
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND:

Meningioma is the most common primary central nervous system neoplasm, accounting for about a third of all brain tumors. Because their growth rates and prognosis cannot be accurately estimated, biomarkers that enable prediction of their biological behavior would be clinically beneficial.

OBJECTIVE:

To identify coding and noncoding RNAs crucial in meningioma prognostication and pathogenesis.

METHODS:

Total RNA was purified from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tumor samples of 64 patients with meningioma with distinct clinical characteristics (16 recurrent, 30 nonrecurrent with follow-up of >5 years, and 18 with follow-up of <5 years without recurrence). Transcriptomic sequencing was performed using the HiSeq 2500 platform (Illumina), and biological and functional differences between meningiomas of different types were evaluated by analyzing differentially expression of messenger RNA (mRNA) and long noncoding RNA (IncRNA). The prognostic value of 11 differentially expressed RNAs was then validated in an independent cohort of 90 patients using reverse transcription quantitative (real-time) polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS:

In total, 69 mRNAs and 108 lncRNAs exhibited significant differential expression between recurrent and nonrecurrent meningiomas. Differential expression was also observed with respect to sex (12 mRNAs and 59 lncRNAs), World Health Organization grade (58 mRNAs and 98 lncRNAs), and tumor histogenesis (79 mRNAs and 76 lncRNAs). Lnc-GOLGA6A-1, ISLR2, and AMH showed high prognostic power for predicting meningioma recurrence, while lnc-GOLGA6A-1 was the most significant factor for recurrence risk estimation (1/hazard ratio = 1.31; P = .002).

CONCLUSION:

Transcriptomic sequencing revealed specific gene expression signatures of various clinical subtypes of meningioma. Expression of the lnc-GOLGA61-1 transcript was found to be the most reliable predictor of meningioma recurrence.
The WNT7A/WNT7B/GPR124/RECK signaling module plays an essential role in mammalian limb development
Authors: Wang Yanshu , Venkatesh Arjun , Xu Jiajia , Xu Mingxin , Williams John , Smallwood Philip M. , James Aaron , Nathans Jeremy
Published: May 2022

In central nervous system vascular endothelial cells, signaling via the partially redundant ligands WNT7A and WNT7B requires two co-activator proteins, GPR124 and RECK. WNT7A and RECK have been shown previously to play a role in limb development, but the mechanism of RECK action in this context is unknown. The roles of WNT7B and GPR124 in limb development have not been investigated. Using combinations of conventional and/or conditional loss-of-function alleles for mouse Wnt7a, Wnt7b, Gpr124 and Reck, including a Reck allele that codes for a protein that is specifically defective in WNT7A/WNT7B signaling, we show that reductions in ligand and/or co-activator function synergize to cause reduced and dysmorphic limb bone growth. Two additional limb phenotypes – loss of distal Lmx1b expression and ectopic growth of nail-like structures – occur with reduced Wnt7a/Wnt7b gene copy number and, respectively, with Reck mutations and with combined Reck and Gpr124 mutations. A third limb phenotype – bleeding into a digit – occurs with the most severe combinations of Wnt7a/Wnt7b, Reck and Gpr124 mutations. These data imply that the WNT7A/WNT7B-FRIZZLED-LRP5/LRP6-GPR124-RECK signaling system functions as an integral unit in limb development.
MRI as a biomarker for breast cancer diagnosis and prognosis
Authors: Galati Francesca , Rizzo Veronica , Trimboli Rubina Manuela , Kripa Endi , Maroncelli Roberto , Pediconi Federica
Published: May 2022

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequently diagnosed female invasive cancer in Western countries and the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Nowadays, tumor heterogeneity is a well-known characteristic of BC, since it includes several nosological entities characterized by diﬀerent morphologic features, clinical course and response to treatment. Thus, with the spread of molecular biology technologies and the growing knowledge of the biological processes underlying the development of BC, the importance of imaging biomarkers as non-invasive information about tissue hallmarks has progressively grown. To date, breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered indispensable in breast imaging practice, with widely recognized indications such as BC screening in females at increased risk, locoregional staging and neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) monitoring. Moreover, breast MRI is increasingly used to assess not only the morphologic features of the pathological process but also to characterize individual phenotypes for targeted therapies, building on developments in genomics and molecular biology features. The aim of this review is to explore the role of breast multiparametric MRI in providing imaging biomarkers, leading to an improved differentiation of benign and malignant breast lesions and to a customized management of BC patients in monitoring and predicting response to treatment. Finally, we discuss how breast MRI biomarkers offer one of the most fertile ground for artificial intelligence (AI) applications. In the era of personalized medicine, with the development of omics-technologies, machine learning and big data, the role of imaging biomarkers is embracing new opportunities for BC diagnosis and treatment.
Effectiveness of contact tracing apps for SARS-CoV-2: an updated systematic review
Authors: Jenniskens Kevin , Bootsma Martin C.J. , Damen Johanna A.A.G. , Ghannad Mona , Oerbekke Michiel S. , Vernooij Robin W.M. , Spijker René , Moons Karel G.M. , Kretzschmar Mirjam E.E. , Hooft Lotty
Published: May 2022

Objective – To systematically review evidence on effectiveness of contact tracing apps (CTAs) for SARS-CoV-2 on epidemiological and clinical outcomes

Design – Update of a systematic review (https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050519)

Data sources - EMBASE (OVID), MEDLINE (PubMed), BioRxiv, and MedRxiv were searched up to June 9th 2021

Study selection – Studies, empirical or model-based, assessing effect of CTAs for SARS-CoV-2 on quarantine rate, reproduction number (R), total number of infections, hospitalization, mortality, and other epidemiologically and clinically relevant outcomes, were eligible for inclusion.

Data extraction – Empirical and model-based studies were both critically appraised based on dedicated quality and risk of bias assessment checklists. Data on type of study (i.e., empirical or model-based), sample size, (simulated) time horizon, study population, CTA type (and associated interventions), comparator, and outcomes assessed, were extracted. Key findings were extracted and narratively summarized. Specifically for model-based studies, characteristics and values of important model parameters were collected.

Results – 5123 studies were identified, of which 27 studies (five empirical, 22 model-based studies) were eligible and included in this review. All empirical studies were observational (non-randomized) studies and either at unclear or high risk of bias, mostly due to uncontrolled confounding. Risk of bias of model-based studies was considered high for 7 of 22 studies. Most studies demonstrated beneficial effects of CTAs on R, total number of infections, hospitalization, and mortality. Effect size was dependent on other model parameter values (e.g., proportion of asymptomatic individuals, testing delays), but in general a beneficial effect was observed at CTA adoption rates of 20% and over.

Conclusions – CTAs are potentially effective at reducing SARS-CoV-2 related epidemiological and clinical outcomes, though effect size depends on other model parameter values. Methodologically sound comparative empirical studies on effectiveness of CTAs are lacking and would be desirable to confirm findings from model-based studies.
Case Report: Successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention in octogenarian with acute-on-chronic kidney disease and total atrioventricular block after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Andrianto Andrianto , Laksmi Ni Putu Anggun , Herdyanto Rio
Published: May 2022

Myocardial infarction (MI) is frequently complicated by the worsening of renal function. Undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) becomes crucial to a patient with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). With appropriate management of MI, acute-on-chronic kidney disease (ACKD) requiring dialysis post-MI remains an important clinical predictor of elevated in-hospital mortality among patients with MI. 

In this study, we reported an octogenarian patient suffering from STEMI with ACKD and total atrioventricular block (TAVB). She underwent insertion of a temporary pacemaker and primary PCI. Renal function was improved after dialysis by decreasing the amount of serum creatinine from 8.1 mg/dL at admission to 1.05 mg/dL after primary PCI and dialysis. Primary PCI should still be considered for patients with acute MI, even though these patients have kidney disease, to save the heart muscle and even indirectly improve the kidney function itself.
A method for the sustainable planning and management of ground source heat pump systems in an urban environment, considering the effects of reciprocal thermal interference
Authors: Belliardi Marco , Soma Linda , Perego Rodolfo , Pera Sebastian , Di Sipio Eloisa , Zarrella Angelo , Carnieletto Laura , Galgaro Antonio , Badenes Borja , Pasquali Riccardo , Bertermann David , Sanner Burkhard
Published: May 2022

The “Most Easy, Efficient and Low Cost Geothermal Systems for Retrofitting Civil and Historical Buildings” (GEO4CIVHIC) project aims to accelerate the deployment of shallow geothermal systems for heating and cooling purposes when retrofitting existing and historical buildings. Analyzing the implementation process of borehole heat exchangers (BHEs), allows the understanding of how to promote the long-term sustainability of shallow geothermal energy systems. The thermal interference between BHE systems represents a problem, especially due to the increasing deployment of this technology and its spread in densely built-up areas.

The main goals of this paper are: a) to analyze the design phase of a BHE system in order to prevent mutual thermal interference, b) to propose a model that encloses phases to adopt an integrated approach for preventing long term thermal interferences, c) to give technical and management suggestions to minimize thermal interference between closed-loop geothermal systems.

The method developed follows the following steps: 1) literature review to determine what are the main drivers for thermal interference between shallow geothermal systems, in the context of the GEO4CIVHIC project case study sites; 2) to create a conceptual model to limit thermal interference at both design and operational phases; 3) to apply the developed method to real and virtual case studies in countries with different regulatory frameworks and to test its main strengths and weaknesses. The application of this conceptual model to specific case studies provides evidence of critical planning and operational characteristics of GSHP systems and allows the identification of measures to mitigate impacts of thermal interference to be identified.
A multi-parameter diagnostic clinical decision tree for the rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis in HIV-positive patients presenting to an emergency centre
Authors: van Hoving Daniël Jacobus , Meintjes Graeme , Maartens Gary , Kengne Andre Pascal
Published: May 2022

Background: Early diagnosis is essential to reduce the morbidity and mortality of HIV-associated tuberculosis. We developed a multi-parameter clinical decision tree to facilitate rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis using point-of-care diagnostic tests in HIV-positive patients presenting to an emergency centre.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in a district hospital emergency centre in a high-HIV-prevalence community in South Africa. Consecutive HIV-positive adults with ≥1 WHO tuberculosis symptoms were enrolled over a 16-month period. Point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) and urine lateral flow lipoarabinomannan (LF-LAM) assay were done according to standardized protocols. Participants also received a chest X-ray. Reference standard was the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis using Xpert MTB/RIF or culture. Logistic regressions models were used to investigate the independent association between prevalent microbiologically confirmed tuberculosis and clinical and biological variables of interest. A decision tree model to predict tuberculosis was developed using the classification and regression tree algorithm.

Results: There were 414 participants enrolled: 171 male, median age 36 years, median CD4 cell count 86 cells/mm3. Tuberculosis prevalence was 42% (n=172). Significant variables used to build the classification tree included ≥2 WHO symptoms, antiretroviral therapy use, LF-LAM, PoCUS independent features (pericardial effusion, ascites, intra-abdominal lymphadenopathy) and chest X-ray. LF-LAM was positioned after WHO symptoms (75% true positive rate, representing 17% of study population). Chest X-ray should be performed next if LF-LAM is negative. The presence of ≤1 PoCUS independent feature in those with ‘possible or unlikely tuberculosis’ on chest x-ray represented 47% of non-tuberculosis participants (true negative rate 83%). In a prediction tree which only included true point-of-care tests, a negative LF-LAM and the presence of ≤2 independent PoCUS features had a 71% true negative rate (representing 53% of sample).

Conclusions: LF-LAM should be performed in all adults with suspected HIV-associated tuberculosis (regardless of CD4 cell count) presenting to the emergency centre.
Glaucoma - the significant challenge for the healthcare system in Poland
Authors: Osial Natalia , Kaczyńska Agnieszka , Gorecka Adrianna , Stępień Piotr , Pożarowska Dorota , Żarnowski Tomasz
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and visual field loss. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. The World Health Organization classifies it as a social and civilization disease and emphasizes the need to improve ophthalmic care systems in order to meet the constantly growing challenge for public health, which is glaucoma. The aim of this article is to identify the main problems that affect the health care system of patients with glaucoma in Poland.

Review methods

The review of literature on glaucoma was performed using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The latest available epidemiological data and the current legal acts concerning the health care system of patients with glaucoma in Poland were also analyzed.

Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge

The incidence of glaucoma in Poland is constantly increasing, due to the aging of the population. The insidious course of the disease, low public awareness and difficulties in access effective ophthalmic services mean that the disease is diagnosed too late, when significant damage to the optic nerve has already occurred. In addition, the poor mental health of patients, treatment difficulties related to the frequent comorbidity of general diseases and the use of other drug therapies, complicate the course of glaucoma and make it difficult to inhibit its progression.

Summary

Glaucoma is a significant challenge for public health and the healthcare system in Poland. Therefore, it is very important to take systemic measures as soon as possible that contribute to improve public awareness of eye diseases, increase the availability of ophthalmic care, early detection and appropriate monitoring of the course of glaucoma.
Association between physical and cognitive function in post menopause: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sousa Wellington Gilberto de , Margato Luanna Rodrigues , Pelet Danyelle Cristina Silva , Paula Rodolfo Ferreira de , Lino Anderson Diogo de Souza , Orsatti Fábio Lera , Souza Markus Vinicius Campos
Published: May 2022

Functional tests have been performed to predict cognitive decline in postmenopausal women and may be an important tool to identify early reductions in cognitive performance in this population. However, it is still unclear which functional test is more sensitive for detecting cognitive decline in the investigated sample. The aim of this study was to verify the association between functional performance and cognitive function in postmenopausal women and to analyze whether the gait speed of 400 meters (400wt) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests are predictors of cognitive function in this sample. One hundred and twenty eight postmenopausal women (60.8 ± 7.9 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. Body composition was assessed using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA), functional performance by the TUG and 400wt tests, cognitive performance by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test and muscle strength by maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) in lower limbs. An association between functional performance and cognitive function was observed in middle-aged postmenopausal women. The TUG test was associated with the MoCA test (B = -0.79; SE = 0.29; p = 0.008). However, no association was observed between 400wt with the MoCA test (B = 3.03; SE = 1.92; p = 0.117). These results show that the TUG test is a good predictor of cognitive decline in postmenopausal middle-aged women.
Microbes as Requisite Additives for Organic Waste Management: A Brief Review
Authors: Hassan Shahnawaz , Sabreena Sabreena
Published: May 2022

Owing to the changes in human lifestyle and resource deterioration impelled by rapid population growth and unsustainable industrialization, waste management has emerged as an extensive contrivance for human welfare and environmental prosperity. Unmanaged waste impacts both rich and poor hurting their economy and environment. Organic waste, being the largest component of MSW in developing countries, can be developed into a valuable resource by utilizing microorganisms. A brief repository about the exertion of microbes for sustainable degradation of organic waste was presented in this article describing the ways how organic waste can be transformed in marketable asset generating remarkable profits.